The day after

Lightning coach John Tortorella didn't have much to say Thursday morning, hours after he went on an expletive-laced tirade in the Lightning dressing room following Tampa Bay's 4-3 overtime loss in Buffalo.

“I’m going to keep my comments in the room,” Tortorella told reporters after the team held a team meeting Thursday morning. “I don’t think I’m going to give you guys too much today. I’m keeping my thoughts in the room. That’s where they belong and that’s where I’m keeping them.”

Totorella angrily stormed through the locker room after the game, yelling, "You better get it ... straightened out," he yelled, "because I'm not going to be ... around it. I'm not going to be ... around it."

In other news, Andreas Karlsson wil return to the lineup tonight, with Andre Roy sitting, and Karri Ramo will start in goal tonight, giving Johan Holmqvist the night off after a career-high 42 saves in Wednesday's loss.

Comments

[I Like Dreamin...]

John, you have probably been dreaming too. You may very well not be around it much longer. Your candle is just about burned out.

See Ya!!!!!!!!!

[Nan]

He should have kept it in the room last night too, better yet he should just keep his swearing to himself.

We can only hope that he meant what he said. Fine with me if he doesn't want to be around it, whatever he meant by that. Sounds to me like he wants a new job!

[sandy]

Can someone explain to me why Torterella would sit Holmquist when he had such a stellar game last night. What kind of message does that send to Homer - it doesn't matter how well you play you are not going to get rewarded. I think it is time of a coach change in Tampa!! He just can't get them motivated. Look what happened in Washington and Atlanta after the coach change.

[boltflasher]

Sandy, goalies seldom play back to back games on consecutive nights...with many teams with a solid #1, this is the only time you see the backup...

[Rudy]

Yes, i think Holmer can use break,
Nothing wrong with that. Beside this is not like competition between him and Ramo. And Ramo is good to play. It’s not like with Denis.
But John need a permanent rest, rather we from him. Sooner is better.

[Miroslav Satan]

The guy sucks as a coach and the players know it.

[David]

1-0

Last one to leave the St. Pete Times Forum, turn off the lights. Doesn't matter how poorly or how well they played, you can't be losing 1-0 when every game is a must win and carry on the pretense of being in competition for a playoff spot.

[74]

John has to be the only guy in and around the NHL who thinks he doesn't play his top guys too much. 3 Forwards over 25 min. and Boyle over 30, and they continuously blow 3rd period leads! I sound like a broken record...

[olin]

...it's all written across his face tonite that he need's to go and he know's it. Time to part way's with your bud Mr. Feaster, and if you don't do it soon, you might find the door slamming your butt as well.

[Used To Like Him...]

I want to know how this little sawed off egotistical &^%$ goes off in a locker room full of reporters after a game and later says "I'll keep it in the locker room where it belongs."

Didn't he bring it into the open by his own little adolescent tantrum?

Enough is enough.

It's time to move his act out of town. Struggling team, ownership up in the air, trade rumors galore, and he feels it the perfect time for a tirade. This is a guy who regularly berates his players in the press, treats the press as if they are lucky to even talk to him, and acts like a spoiled child. How come nobody asks him to be responsible for the play of his team? This defense?

And he benches Roy for losing control of his emotions. Hey......Andre's just emulating his coach! It's the old expression, do what I say, not what I do. His ability to lead this team is gone. He should be too!

[boltflasher]

1 to 0 the Isles? ...the Isles don't have nearly the talent of the Bolts yet look at the standings...Only thing the Isles have on the Bolts is in goal, DiPietro...otherwise, they have nothing like Vinny, Marty, Prospal, Brad, or Boyle...They have nothing to match our top 5 players...This HAS got to make you wonder what the Hell is goin' on?

[David]

The Isles have a coach!

[fogelberg]

1460AM in Columbus was saying about three hours ago that there were a couple of different trade scenarios being discussed between the Lightning and the Blue Jackets and that although nothing was finalized a deal involving Brad Richards seemed "imminent." The names being tossed around as possibly being part of the package headed South were forwards Derick Brassard, Gilbert Brule, Jason Chimera and goalie Steve Mason with the possibility of another prospect and/or pick being thrown in. It's sports talk radio so I take it with a grain of salt. Columbus' Ken Hitchcock gave a "no comment" when asked about the rumor before the game. Watching the Blue Jackets play on a fairly regular basis (although my allegiance will always lie first and foremost with the Bolts - born and raised in St. Pete) I have to admit I'm actually pretty excited by the names being mentioned going to Tampa Bay. Derick Brassard and Gilbert Brule are both blossoming youngsters with star potential. Chimera has the big body and the tenacity of Ward, but with a little more offensive skill. And Mason could be the goalie of the future we've been looking for. You have to admit that on several levels it makes sense for both teams. We'll see what happens.

[I Like Dreamin...]

Fogelberg, thanks for the update. Please keep us posted. Nice to have a contact there that can pick up info for us. Much appreciated.

Brassard is the guy I think would help this team the most. Still green as kermit but no doubt an up and comer. Toss in a prospect or 2, a draft pick or 2 and it's a deal. It helps CBJ in a big way and offers the Bolts some financial flexibility which they need.

With several attractive names hitting the free agent market this summer it would be nice to know that the teams biggest pickup wouldn't be the likes of Ouellet.

Can't wait to dream tonight. Who knows what's next!

[I Like Dreamin...]

By the way .......I don't suppose Kuba or Denis were mentioned were they?

Naw........a dream is a dream....then there's reality.

Keep us posted brother!

[fogelberg]

Neither Kuba nor Denis were mentioned, but I could certainly see Kuba being tossed in for a little something extra. The Jackets could use him as their 4th or 5th D-man down the stretch.

And I agree, I'd be stoked if Brassard or Mason were part of the deal.

[I Like Dreamin...]

The Columbus Dispatch has a message board and here is what they say about the possibility of getting Richards in a trade...

« Tugger's Return | Main | Peca out »

Richards On The Radar
I've just been told by a very credible source that the Blue Jackets are among the teams talking to Tampa Bay about acquiring center Brad Richards.

Don't know what the Blue Jackets would have to give up, but they've said all along that top prospects Jakub Voracek and Steve Mason are untouchable. Might be hard to put a deal together without one of those two, but we shall see.

Richards' availability via trade was first reported by TSN, a Canadian cable channel. TSN also hinted that the Blue Jackets were in the running. I didn't want to report it until somebody I respected confirmed it to me, and that took place this afternoon.

First, Richards would have to waive his no trade clause. Not sure he'd do that to come to the Blue Jackets, but this franchise has always been very welcoming and attractive to Prince Edward Island guys.

Richards is a sublime playmaker. He's having a down year, like a lot of the Lightning's players, as evidenced by his minus-25 rating. But he'd be far and away the best center the Blue Jackets have ever had. In the four years before this one, he averaged 56 assists.

Perspective: The all-time Blue Jackets record for assists in a single season is 52, by Ray Whitney in 2002-03.

Richards, 27, is making $7.8 million this season and the next three, all the way through 2010-11. So he won't come cheap, in any aspect.

Stay tuned.

-- Aaron Portzline
aportzline@dispatch.com

Comments (8)
Joe:
It is cruel to tease us into thinking we could obtain a Brad Richards.

Posted by Joe | February 21, 2008 4:28 PM

Posted on February 21, 2008 16:28

Brandon:
I love trade rumors!

Posted by Brandon | February 21, 2008 4:34 PM

Posted on February 21, 2008 16:34

Chip:
So does this mean the Jackets for buyers, not sellers at the trade deadline?

Posted by Chip | February 21, 2008 4:36 PM

Posted on February 21, 2008 16:36

puckhogg:
i hope Voracek is not included,we need offensive forwards and he would be great to plug into the second line with nicky next year.

Posted by puckhogg | February 21, 2008 4:37 PM

Posted on February 21, 2008 16:37

Jussi:
If we are trading away our talented youth, guy like Richards is what we need in return. He has a long contract so we know we're not giving away top talent for a guy who's only staying for a year.

I don't mind us trading away youth for established players with long contracts. I just don't want us to waste picks and players for short term rentals at this stage of franchise. Richards would be a good acquisition, I'm sure Howson won't give up more than needed. Salary can't be an issue if we expect this team to make playoffs next season.

Posted by Jussi | February 21, 2008 4:42 PM

Posted on February 21, 2008 16:42

Sean Rice:
I would pull the trigger on this, trade either Mason or Jakub and Russel for this guy. He is a playoof MVP he is a real #1 centerman. Nash would be a 70 goal scorer playing on a line with this guy. It is time to bring an impact player to play with Nasher..

Posted by Sean Rice | February 21, 2008 4:52 PM

Posted on February 21, 2008 16:52

gary:
Vyborny for Richards! ;)

He's expensive but he's the real deal and exactly what the jackets need.

Posted by gary | February 21, 2008 6:49 PM

Posted on February 21, 2008 18:49

Deisty:
Foote & Leclaire 4 him would be fine by me. Most goalies dont become consistent until 30s. And through in a draft pick or #91.

But keep Brassard and Voracek.

Posted by Deisty | February 21, 2008 6:54 PM

Posted on February 21, 2008 18:54

Funny how opinions change from city to city. Seems like the fans there love the idea and so do we. Win, win as they say!!

It'll all be clear in a few days. I'm off for another ambien. Can't wait to see what's next!

[Nate Dogg]

Honestly, any trade that involves "down the road" thinking would be much appreciated.

Many people forget those god awful years of acquiring cheap "past their prime" players that the Lightning put out for so many years. I guess you all have been spoiled by one god-blessed championship.

Yeah, the bar has been raised... So what?!

No longer do we have the option of Craig Jenney, Stephan Richer, or Wendall Clark being our leading scorer.

I wish all of you would get real and face the facts.

The loss in Buffalo gave us the option to finally pull the trigger on some deals that will make us better before the end of the season and beyond.

Boston is currently in 6th place in the eastern conference. I think life after Joe Thornton hasn't completely been awful...

Not that i would ever ask for a trading of Brad Richards or Vincent Lecavalier (who for some reason keeps getting more and more abbreviated as VL4), but honestly, you guys keep thinking this is the best we can do with what we got.

It's not. We will be fine without Prospal, Richy, or VL4. Yeah it may even take a year...but you know what...that's fine with me. As long as I know the organization actually has a "plan" to get better...whether it be in another year or two from now. As opposed to "medicrocy

It's obvious it's no more than a fiction story.

It was nice knowing you old Bolts,
Nate Dogg

[Nate Dogg]

Honestly, any trade that involves "down the road" thinking would be much appreciated.

Many people forget those god awful years of acquiring cheap "past their prime" players that the Lightning put out for so many years. I guess you all have been spoiled by one god-blessed championship. Do you not remember BEING THE DOORMAT FOR THE LEAGUE FOR COUNTLESS YEARS?!?! BEING THE "DEVIL RAYS OF THE NHL"?!?

Yeah, the bar has been raised... So what?!

No longer do we have the option of Craig Jenney, Stephan Richer, or Wendall Clark being our leading scorer.

I wish all of you would get real and face the facts.

The loss in Buffalo gave us the option to finally pull the trigger on some deals that will make us better before the end of the season and beyond. It's time to build for NOW and the FUTURE.

Boston is currently in 6th place in the eastern conference. I think life after Joe Thornton hasn't completely been awful...

Not that i would ever ask for a trading of Brad Richards or Vincent Lecavalier (who for some reason keeps getting more and more abbreviated as VL4), but honestly, you guys think that keeping the status quo is OK??! With that kind of payroll and results?!

It's not. We will be fine without Prospal, Richy, or VL4. Yeah it may even take a year....or more...but you know what...that's fine with me. As long as I know the organization actually has a "plan" to get better...whether it be in another year or two from now. As opposed to being mediocre and missing the playoffs anyway for the next two years with the same "fantastic four" and a heavy payroll.

It's obvious it's no more than a fiction story. Think down the line and be realistic. Resign Boyle to what he deserves to be paid and move whatever else needs to be moved!

It was nice knowing you old Bolts...Thanks for all the great memories,
Nate Dogg

[Nate Dogg]

Wow, sorry guys about the double post. Can't control my feelings toward our current situation or my mouse...

[jr]

If there was any doubt.....

http://www.thehockeynews.com/articles/13645-THNcom-Blog-Richards-and-Tortorella-on-the-hot-seat-in-Tampa.html

[keith]

Watch the play off bound team vultures circling. Deals with the devil going to be made, just as long as something changes. My Pop used to tell me "if you always do what you always did, you'll always get what you always got".
Next 4 days will be intersting to watch which is more than you can say for the sorry product on skates each night.

[Rudy]

In my opinion, we have to do what has to be done and first is first. That mean coach has to go, like all of us, mostly agree. I know that over two years now, and I post it couple time in this blog. Some did not agreed with that, but not anymore. Now most see it like only option, John acutely open that door himself. So before we start speculating who and when to trade, like lot of us doing already, let’s just change coach first, and see what new guy will came with. Maybe players will start responding differently; maybe they will show us what we don’t know yet. New coach will have definitely different approach, and we will see what players he will like to get, or get rid of. Obviously, this management is not capable to make any decision anyway, so I guess we have no choice just wait before we get some capable personnel’s before we make some stupid trades, like we did in past anyway.

[Not The Marlboro Man]

We are just missing 1 or 2 pieces of the puzzle!! LOL!!!!!!!!!

[Not The Marlboro Man]

We are just missing 1 or 2 pieces of the puzzle!! LOL!!!!!!!!!

[Mike13]

It'll take 2-4 years for this deal to pay dividends for the Bolts when you look at the players they're tossing around in the deal. Then again, the financial freedom it also provides the Bolts would pay immediate dividends and that is what the Bolts bloggers have been focused on for some time now.

With only a few exceptions, I think we all like Richards and would hate to loose him. But at the same time, his contract when compared to his on-ice product is out of synch. Given the team budget, it has handcuffed the organization for going on 2 years.

If we are able to leverage the kind of young talent that is being discussed, and are able to put the savings to use toward a more solid blueline for next year and beyond, then I say pull the trigger.

[olin]

Rudy is 100% correct. Tort's need's to go coach at Norfolk, and teach and rant and rave down there to prepare our "pipeline" player's for NHL level. He also need's to take anger management, so player's will respect him for being the good coach he is. He need's to chill, and treat those player's with respect and learn how to work with them. Can the ego trip. You can't be a good coach walking around with a chip on your shoulder all the time. He was lucky he won the cup, but I believe deep down those guy's won that cup for their "inspiration, the CAPT. Dave Andreychuk". ...I'll tell you what MR.FEASTER, you change job description's for Capt. Dave, and let him take over the reign's as INTERIM coach of the lightning these last remaining game's, and I GUARENTEE this team will play differently, and guy's will want to stay here and play as we did the cup year. All you would have to do over the summer is tweak the defense, sign DB, keep BR, use the high draft pick we will get, and this will be a total different team. Bring Larry Robinson in from NJ for the defensive/assistant coach. It's defintly worth a shot, before dismantling the roster, and having Tort's back again for another disaster next season....HELLLLOOOOO JF, think before you screw up again....

[Nan]

This team whether now or over the summer needs to rebuild. Like I said before and others have said, Torts needs to go, he has spent his last days here.

We need to trade Richie because his contract is too big along side Vinny's. I think he would excel in the right situation, he hasn't been dealt a fair hand by the organization by any means.

[JoeG]

Please fire Torts.Please.

[ajax]

Everybody wants Boyle
Everybody wants Vinny
Just maybe Feaster could put on his thinking cap and package say Denis/Kuba and really get the payroll in line for better things asap.
First sentence out of his mouth should be if you want Boyle you have to take Denis. Maybe the Times could print this to help Feaster out. I guess without blank checks Feaster is having a tough time nailing down the deal.

[olin]

..ya know- I was just thinkin since my post....JF, you'd never bring in CAPT. DAVE ANDREYCHUK as a "interim" coach, YOU couldn't even retire his #25 and raise it to the rafter's to be the first retired jersey # in TBL history at his retirement nite last year. The ENTIRE sold out forum that nite was EXPECTING to see that happen...what's you give him, a fishing pole??? So disappointing to me....Tort's time is over- keep the freindship tie's/ but sever coaching at NHL level tie's...put him to Norfolk with Rumble and Loiselle and turn around the Admiral's. Let him teach.....

[Tackleberry]

Olin,
Good point. A FISHING POLE! WOW, just shows you how cheap Fester is. God forbid that Jay EVER stands up for a player and commemorates them. Maybe Jay thought that retiring Dave's # would be negative $ marketing.

Feaster needs to go before Torts.

New trades, new team, NEW MANAGEMENT (from the TOP, down!)

Jay YOU SUCK!

[Mike13]

Did anybody else hear the Bolt Action interview this morning on 620?

Cillio asked Feaster how involved the "new" owner was on a scale of 1-10. Feaster replied with 20! He said the new owner is very, very, very, very involved in any discussions that are going on, and has lots of opinions on players. Feaster did not seem at all pleased by the more hands-on approach.

[jr]

Some of you guys kill me. Torts shouldn't be part of the organization. Period. Besides, he wouldn't take the job and some other NHL team would probably hire him. Several coaching shakeups are supposedly in the offing. He fired Ramsey for Sully...bad move. He's a real dictator and bully, just what you want when developing talent.

[weezer]

You mean the "fantasy" owner, Mike13?

He won't be the owner any more than you or I will. He can't get a loan and can't field a competitive team under his proposed budget, suggesting insufficient operating capital. His pal Berg has even less. The other guy mentioned, Belinsky, has some real jack but he seems to be involved only peripherally.

I really think PSE doesn't know when it's being scammed. They didn't perform due diligence on either of the would-be owner groups.

[FAN FOR JUSTICE]

GOING BACK TO DECEMBER 2007

Remember when I mentionned the problem was not the GOALIES.... ?

NOW STOP TO LIVE IN THE PASS ...

How can we blame a guy for all the poor season when he had 4 official starts with the team ...? Since Denis is with Norfolk, he did the job with the weakess team in AHL, and I can tell you that the young guys and the coaching staff are appreciating DENIS's support... ask Boutin...

December Torts said HOLMQUIST is my No. 1, he treated him the same way as DENIS... and for sure he will not resigned with the Bolts, if TORTS stay as the coach...

December Torts said we brought the KID RAMO and he will have the chance to play... Oh YEA.... Ramo need to play on a regular basis to develop, not 1 game a week... and now we are looking again for a No 1 goalie... HOW DO YOU THINK RAMO CAN FEEL WHEN HE'S EARING ALL THAT CRAP....

EXCUSES ARE FOR LOOSER....
SOLUTIONS ARE FOR WINNER...

[David]

His response should have been "Mr. Koules, you do not own this team yet. If I make your moves and the deal falls though I'm the one holding the bag. When the money is transferred, the BoG approval has been given and the sale completed then I will be happy to have you direct the player moves." Much as I think Feaster is terrible at what he does, I'd have supported him in this instance.

A not-quite owner should get a little more weight given to his opinions than Feaster gives to ours.

If you didn't think Bettman needed to go before, watching him chase away buyers who can pay cash for a team while overseeing the fiascos of failed sales in Nashville and Tampa should be a hint he doesn't have what it takes.

[tundo]

Ramsey was offered the Florida job interview, and Torts wouldn't let him go...then he fires him 2 years later...

Shows you the kind of character he has, but he is a damn good hockey coach, although these past few weeks, I do have to question some of the things he has done. For instance, why are our two offensive defensemen on the ice Wednesday when we are trying to protect a 1 goal lead? Then last night, why is O'Brien on the ice when we are losing by a goal in the final 2 minutes? Just doesn't make much sense to me...

Torts just isn't working out with our veterans anymore. Vinny, Marty, Brad, Danny, these guys are too mature to have to deal with another adult yelling at them like they are children. Torts needs to go coach a young team somewhere. Only way it makes sense to keep him is if we go to a youth movement, which I don't think is necessary...

As for the Richards rumour. A move to Columbus would be great for his career. He could center the line of Rick Nash and Freddy Modin, and just watch the points pile up. He could be the NHL leader in assists next season if he has those two as his line mates. Fedorov is a free agent at the end of the year, and he won't be back giving them a boatload of cap room. Richards makes perfect sense for them. I would like to see Brassard come down here, he would be a great candidate to replace Richards on the second line at some point next season. Maybe throw in a defensive prospect or two, maybe Methot, a big defensemen who plays sound D, and forces guys inside just about every rush, we could really use someone like that in the organization...

Not really too concerned with a goalie coming back this way, we need to get an established veteran here that can split time with Ramo next season. We have our future goalie, we have goalie depth in the minors, no need to bring in another uncertainty...

[Sam Zebco]

How dare you belittle my pole!!! Cap'n Dave loves it and puts it to good use.

[weezer]

"Past few weeks?" Glad you're not a talent evaluator, tundo. It was obvious since the beginning of December Torts lost this team, not to mention his horrible handling of goaltenders, distribution of ice time, and demeanor with the players and press. The guy needs a shrink more than anything....Shrink, oh shrink, where are you???

[tundo]

Its not that I didnt see it earlier, I was just hoping a lot of the problems were due to Boyle being out, but even with him back now, the defense is still making the stupid mistakes, Kuba is getting worse by the game (horrible attempt to block that shot last night that went in), Boyle is even struggling defensively late in the game now, and it all falls on the coach not doing his job. It has just been more obvious to me in the past few weeks, and especially these last 3 games, that Tortorella is struggling...

I am beginning to think that anything more than $5M a year is too much for Boyle. If we are going to spend that much on a defensemen, he cannot be a defensive liability. Id rather chase a solid blue line stay at home defensmen if we are going to be throwing around that kind of money towards a defender. It might not be Boyles fault though, Im sure anything past 30 minutes pt you will start to break down, and that is when I am noticing the poor defensive play out of him...

[jds]

Trade rumors a plenty:
http://bustedscoreboard.wordpress.com/eye-on-the-nhl/

Looks like the lightning are having a fire-sale

[jr]

Intersting link but I don't agree at all with that guy. Here's my guess:

Richards: Columbus.
Prospal: Calgary.
Boyle: Rangers as a rental, then we re-sign him in the summer.

Richards would be a much better fit in Columbus and there would be less pressure than in Detroit. I doubt if even the Pillsbury Doughboy would trade Boyle to a divisional rival (Carolina), even in the short term. Calgary said very interested in Prospal.

No mention of Gratton, Hlavac, Holmquist, or Kuba. Their fate might depend on who the Bolts get for the above.

[I Like Dreamin...]

This darn ambien....... just won't quit!

The Lightning have worked out a deal with Boyle to keep him here but just before he signs Detroit calls. Lidstrom is out for 3 weeks or more. Rafalski is out on IR. Kronwall is out. They are in desperate need of a d-man and Boyle fits their mold. They won't be able to keep him beyond this season since they already pay Lidstrom 7+ mil per and Rafalski 6 mil. They want him as a rental player for the remainder of the year and into the playoffs. Boyle agrees to go to Detroit and ends up winning the Cup. He then returns to Tampa, where he wants to be, next season according to terms already agreed to.

Silly dream but it seemed so real!! And it continues.....

The Bolts are fielding some healthy offers for Richards and see a lot of young prospects heading here. They know they will need some vets around so they re-sign Grats. (as casper chokes)

Prospal would like to stay but only if torts is gone. Don't worry they say. He's toast. Moving Richards to the top line was NOT to get him jumpstarted. It was to see how Prospal would look as a second line center if Richards ends up being moved. Prospal isn't worth what he's asking for as a complimentary top 6 winger however the Bolts would be willing to pay him more as a second line center where he becomes more valuable to the team. The experiment had mixed results. Prospal played well however he lost some ice time because of the benching of his powerhouse linemates - Hlavac and Ouellet. Those 2 could make Gretsky look bad. Nevertheless, the Bolts are happy with what they saw of Prospal in that spot so they moved him back for the remainder of the season or until Brad gets moved, if he indeed gets moved. Only problem was, Prospal didn't know what it was all about and as a result he spoke out in anger and frustration and killed his relationship with torts. It's clear one or the other has to go. Prospal gets traded for the remainder of this season but agrees to resign here next year if torts is gone.

I gotta lay off this ambien. These crazy dreams....

[Tortarelli]

what about Jay Feaster? how does that blubber bound buzz-cut whale keep his job?

[ajax]

Prospal has been awesome this year. But buyer beware, he seems to have good years everytime free agency comes up and off years once the cash is in the bank. Buyer beware. I think he has always had a world size chip on his shoulder with all his cohorts doubling his salary and his stats have always been pretty darn good. Let em take his anger out in some other city. Lots of play in the big media circus about Richards. Crazy me, but I would sure be looking at Hossa before Richards. Awesome talent and probably get him cheaper.

[I Like Dreamin...]

Hossa would be cheaper to aquire. The reason is simple, he'd be a rental. This guy is gonna run for the money after the season and who knows what teams might be willing to pay the guy. The reason Richards would draw more in trade is because he's still under contract for a few years and teams don't have to worry about losing him 3 months after trading away assets for him. He's theirs for a few years.

Hossa will draw a decent price however will a team be willing to pay as much for a guy who could very well be gone in a few months or would they pay more for a guy who will be there for a few more years? Richards becomes a teams #1 center for the next few years and Hossa is a rental. The return on Richards will likely be higher.

[Torts is Done]

It wasn't but a few weeks ago when Tim Taylor stated on the radio that Tort's had NOT lost the players ears. He said that when the top players stop producing, that's when they have tuned out their coach. At that time that hadn't happened. If that statement is correct all one has to do is look at the month of February.

9 games.......

V4 - 1 goal and 1 PP point

MSL - 2 goals and 2 PP points

Hardly what you would expect from 2 of the leagues top 10 scorers in a playoff run.

Seems clear to me........

[Torts is Done]

What a contrast!!

Fogleberg mentioned 1460 the sports radio station in Columbus. I found it and they have a "listen live" link. After hearing all about Buckeye basketball the talk finally drifted toward the Blue Jackets. Blue Jacket fans are absolutely wetting themselves over the possibility of obtaining Richards. This season their highest producing center in assists has 24. (peca) Their top center in points has all of 28. (federov) How does that happen when you have Nash (32 goals) and Zherdev (24 goals) You would think someone there would have 40 assists skating with those guys.

They are looking at a center with no linemates to speak of who has 50 points and 34 assists. Not to mention he has averaged 55 assists over the last 4 years including last years low of 45. Toss out last season and he's averaged almost 60 playing with players who can finish. He'll have that there.

They are talking about 30 for Mo next year after being reunited and 50+ for nash. They want him so bad they can taste it. They are beside themselves thinking about the possibility.

Here however........trade the worthless piece of trash.

What a difference.

[Mike13]

Not sure anyone has called him trash --although some have come very close.

I shudder to think of the possible assets we could get from the team that is ranked 11th according to Hockey's Future.

CLB's top five prospects: 1. Jakub Voracek (RW), 2. Derick Brassard (C), 3. Kris Russell (D), 4. Joakim Lindstrom (LW), 5. Steve Mason (G).

There's no sense in asking for Mason. We already have a plethora of promising netminders and he's not an NHL starter yet.

[tundo]

I don't think we are all saying Brad is a "piece of trash". Instead, we are saying, "please save us from the huge mistake we made when we paid our 2nd line center 8M dollars". They have plenty to offer us as compensation too as far as prospects go. I say we ask for Brassard and Russell. Brassard will be tough to pry off of them, they are high on the guy. We have to try though, as he would fill Richards skates on that second line. We would probably have to throw someone else in the mix too, like Gratton. He would give them a gritty center for their playoff push that is very good in the faceoff circle. Russell would probably be obtainable. He is small, but talented. He could learn first hand from the player he most resembles in the NHL and that is Dan Boyle. Perfect fit, really.

Waiting on Jay to get to work, lets get it done big man. If they are willing to bail you out, you have to make this deal!

[Torts is Done]

You are right Mike. Nobody has called him trash and I said that tongue in cheek. No doubt he's been bashed all year. Big Time! With what he's had to work with, I believe it's undeserved. I believe any venom should be directed at those responsible for leaving 6 mil in their pockets rather than making a run for it.

I was never one in the trade Richey club but at this point I have to admit, the thought of landing some of the young talent being tossed around does intrigue me.

[Lisa]

In an ideal world, where owners cared and had money (and let us spend to the max), we would get one more scoring winger for Richards and one more veteran shut down defenseman (and we would have traded a draft pick for Bryzgalov). In that situation, we are able to hold the core together and have a team that would contend for the cup. Gratton is a very good 3rd line center and Ward and MacDonald have been playing very well and have become pretty good defensively.

However, we do not have the ideal situation, and someone needs to be traded. I am not bashing Richards, but without giving him the linemates he needs, he isn't living up to his contract and really should either be given the linemates (won't happen) or traded for young talent that can help the team as they mature.

Boyle: ideal situation would be to trade him, get some prospects and picks and then have him return in the off season.

I will be sad to see more important pieces of the Cup team leave the Bolts, but I really think that it is inevitable at this point. The only one that I think should be untouchable (unless he specifically asked to be traded) is Vinny. I think he is the one player that gives so much that we would not get back what he is worth in any trade.

[Mike13]

No doubt that the real villain in this whole saga is PSE (Davidson). He wouldn't spend the dough Feaster needed him to spend. But if the purse strings won't be loosened, you gotta do what you gotta do.

And unfortunately, that means trading Richie. Let the record show that he, Marty, Capt'n Dave, and Brian Bradley are by far my favorite Bolts of all time and I am sad to see Brad be the odd man out. But, he is. Feaster can't trade Vinny. There would be riots.

I'm originally from Washington DC and Jeff Halpern & Peter Bondra were my favorite Caps while there. I was a little heart-broken when GM McPhee sent them packing --so I am gearing myself up mentally for the same when Richie goes.

If we can trade him and get valuable assets in return, then great. Trading him and getting a 2nd round pick or something would be moronic.

[Torts is Done]

Well said Lisa and Mike!

Both comments right on the money!!

[Casper]

Totally agree with these past few posts.
Since I'm already in the mugbook, I won't extoll the virtue of our Goldenboy. You know he wears that moniker for the extremely preferential treatment from on high.

We trench hogs sort of resent one of the minions squealing for a different style of game and not grunting/grinding it out like the rest of North America.
Hey look, we all understand Brad isn't all bad and yes he's had some real clodhoppers on his lines. For the insane money he commandeth, someone should have grown the 'nads to move him toward greener pastures long before things got ugly around here.

Now, now; anything is possible. Right on once again, there is a heck of a lot of myopia upstairs. Myopia and greed. Hope this turns a corner soon and everyone returns to loving this amazing game and the gifted characters fortunate enough to get paid to play it.

Go Bolts!

[Casper]

I just reread to guess where Mr. Nibbs and Son are going to pick away.

I'll clarify by stating Brad was utterly fantastic until the dark day the classless schlubs upstairs showed Andreychuk the door.
Then it was kind of---do the job and go home. No emotion or verve. No passion or chutzpah. Since many Americans sleepwalk through life while their pockets are picked by *---fill in the blank---* why should anyone fuss with a guy making only 95G's per game on a hockey rink in Florida?

Yeah he maybe shoulda or coulda made linemates better, but if his heart was ripped out by business dolts, why go the extra kilometer?

I won't wait until he's gone before tipping my cap toward him for playing while toughing out mono. Doubt if I could do it back when I thought I was bulletproof. Dang certain I couldn't.

Moving him prior to this puke-bucket of a season? Sure he'd have waived that NTC for the right finagle. Detroit or Anaheim or SJ a year ago? Why not?

Also feel the punk Koules ain't our guy either, so this soap opera will be good for some Lads to leave behind for a while. Anything is possible...

[db]

For those who dont think deadline deals can work for us, think again. http://sports.espn.go.com/nhl/columns/story?columnist=amber_david&id=3258808
For trading Bryan Marchment and Jason Weimer, we got 1st rnd (V4) and 3rd rnd (BR) in 98 draft and a Stanley Cup in 04. Time to trade for picks and get somebody that knows talent to pick for us.

[Mike13]

DB, that was done by Rick Dudley - not Feaster. We haven't drafted well since. That's why so many of us are against getting picks in return. It makes sense in a lot of organizations. Just not this one...

[Torts is Done]

That deal was done by Espo. He made the trade and drafted #4 and #19. Shortly after that Williams bought the team and Espo was gone. Demers, who had been coach was named GM but not until after the 98 draft. In a matter of months, Williams sold the team to PSE who hired Dudley. Dudley became GM here in early 99. He drafted in 99, 00, and 01.

[Patrick]

Well it sure sounds like Brad's days as a bolt are ending soon. For all of those who think right now it is the best thing for the lightning, I truly wonder how we will feel this time next year if he is traded.

I have to admit that I am impressed by what we might get in the rumors - a young forward, defenseman and a pick - but as promising as prospects sound, we would be trading for players who are unproven in the NHL regular and post seasons for a player who is proven in both. And we go from having only one proven 2nd line player to none - we'll be building a second line completely from scratch.

The only reason to consider trading him is the current ownership's cap limit. If the cap goes up next year and ownership allows us to spend more, then there may not be a problem. That would assume we trade Boyle instead of Richards. It seems we have more young promising defensemen - Ranger, O'Brien, Lundin - than we do 2nd line forwards. With Boyle gone, that would free up over 3 mil. That with the other cap changes could allow us to get #1 goalie and 2nd line winger.

[db]

I definitely dont want Feaster drafting anybody, but that is not his job. He has real hockey people (or should) making those decisions. The Ning have actually done OK with the draft picks if you consider we have not had many 1st or 2nd rnd picks since 2000. Paul Ranger(rnd6),Norrena (rnd7), Ryan Craig(rnd8) all in 2002. players. Mike Lundin and Blair Jones look pretty good to me. It may take time to develop these players but I want a team that competes every year, so consequently you need draft picks.

[Torts is Done]

Patrick, please keep in mind at this point it's all speculation and rumor. Nobody knows for sure what will happen. Could very well be nothing comes of all the talk. It's clear that Columbus, along with others, have serious interest in Brad. Interest and offers are one thing. A deal is quite another.

As for what comes back, who knows? Could be a player or 2 who just might be 2nd liners. Your solution makes perfect sense and that might very well be what happens if they can't sign Boyle and end up moving him instead. It's all speculation right now.

I think all JF wants to get in return for Brad, if he indeed moves him, is the most assets he can get his hands on. We have all summer to fill out the roster and some picks and/or prospects can be used to aquire a player or 2 that will help us immediately. Players like Prospal, Gratton, Richards, Boyle and others could potentially bring a large group of picks/prospects. Some will be retained while others go for more immediate help. A lot happens around draft day and the more in your pocket, the better position you are in to get what you need.

Once again, it's speculation. Nothing more. I almost wish Richards name didn't come up even if they were thinking about moving him. If they don't I think we both know what's going to happen. I can hear it now.......

"That idiot Feaster had the opportunity to clear cap space and send Richie out of town but he blew it again!" You know that's coming. People will be making up deals that never existed and blaming Feaster for not taking them. It'll never end!

Also consider, Feaster may simply be testing the waters for a clearer view of his off season options. Kind of a "sign Boyle at whatever it takes and figure out in the summer what to do with all the salary." Who knows?

If someone suggested a few weeks ago that Brad was headed to Columbus I'd have thought they were crazy. Who would have thought? Oddly enough a couple of weeks ago before any word of Richards came out Hitchcock was asked what he would like to see added to his team at the deadline. He said, "A big time playmaker who can help Nash score 50 to 55 goals." How ironic. Keep in mind Hitch is very familar with Richards. Richards was fantastic in the Eastern Conference Championship in 04 when we beat him and his Flyers. I'm sure he's had a lot to say about the possible deal to the GM there. That could be another reason they are making a very serious effort to land him.

Apparently there are others - Edmonton, Vancouver, Montreal, etc; that have made serious inquiries about Brad but Columbus is rumored to be making the best offer. It still may not be enough. Who knows?

This could be the most active trade deadline Tampa has ever seen. Or, it could come and go. Only one thing has been acomplished so far. No matter which side of the trade Brad - don't trade Brad fence, the speculation of the last few days has given everyone a dose of reality.

Not long ago someone here said - be careful of what you ask for, you just might get it. Looks like that could be the case.

[pal]

Thinking about all of this the last few days I’ve sort of come up with another good reason as to why the Lightning need to move Brad and that is a stylistic one. I just really believe this team has too many finesse players trying to make pretty plays all the time. I agree we might not get equal “talent” back, but if we get some hungry youngsters with some jam and some upside, maybe their enthusiasm and effort could turn out to make a huge difference in the make-up, and ultimately, the results of the team.

[Bandersnatch]

Thank you Pal. Your observation demonstrates you've been paying attention!

The change in the approach to the game is needed and inevitable.

The need for change transcends through sports. Slugging baseball clubs finally get to their post season with pitching.
The Stinking Mullets...er...Dolphins, are going through a reverse trend, where their brilliant coach and system---Don Shula, had to change to suit the style of one guy, Dan Marino. The only Super Bowl they saw was the team Marino drove that was inherited from the 'WoodStrock' year before. Gone went Shula, who knew better about how to approach the game; and the idiotic Dol-phans were mesmerized by Marino's numbers and passes under a mono-faceted and easy to coach against 'system'.
Now they're still trying to gut the Fish stank from the weak, single minded offense, oddly, hoping the Big Tuna can work his magic. (By the way, Bolts blog Tuna- you flamed out way too soon.)

Sorry for the drift off task, but there is certainly a corelation throughout sport in the team detriment; when catering to one player and laying the collective lack of success at everyone else's feet. The blame falls on that one star and the rim job given to management---who in turn do a dirty sanchez to the fans. (And some of you obviously like it.)

Brad Richards, it's been a slice, man. Go forth and develop your career; so we can get back to a respectable form of fundamentally sound hockey before our remaining studs get too old to move. (And take Torts too. Can the coaches be involved with this dangling carrot proposed swap?)

[Get Real]

Hey Casper,

Schlubs? Chutzpah? Finagle?

We didn't know you were fluent in Latin.

[jr]

Columbus really wants Richie:

http://www.dispatch.com/live/content/bluejackets/stories/2008/02/23/arace23.ART_ART_02-23-08_C1_599EH0S.html?sid=101

[olin]

I don't understand why Steve "BigDog" doesnt see the light here. As hockey knowledgable as he is- he should realize that BR's salary is much overpaid. Yeah Dog, Brad is a great talented player, no doubt about it, I'd like to keep him too, but with the mistake JF made giving him the big buck's comparable to in your word's a Lidstrom, he is not worth the 7.8 a season. Now JF has to make more amend's to his fluke on this one. He has to fix the other boff in Mo-Denis as well. So we lose BR, Steve, hopefully JF get's the most he can for him, and a 3som of upcoming top prospect's and a pick from CBJ will definitely help here. We can't go on for BR's next 3 season's at 7.8 per, trying to plug winger's in to find his golden fleece again, and the way JF/Tort's/Barbour pick's the canidate's, it might never happen again. As much as I DO like BR's style and play(except for the no hit-soft Lady Byng) it's time to let him go as long as JF get's a great return.
The real deal should be to bring in a new coach, and let Tort's teach at Norfolk or send him packing. JF need's to sign DB, asap, unless his demand's are too much. The defense need's desperatly DB's service's to bring the puck and qb the PP.
C'mon BIG DOG.....see the light.

[wiggy]

Why worry about what some local media hack thinks?

Bolts deals will be addition by substraction, mostly. Richards may not bring enough to suit most of us but it frees up a lot of salary. The best we can do with Boyle is to trade him for a prospect and draft choice, then re-sign him this summer. The length of the contract is more important to him than the annual salary. His fiance is local and wants to stay here. Prospal, if not dealt, will bring nothing. He won't remain here. I would forget about a goaltender being in the mix on any of these deals.

Biggest problem is ownership. Neither the present owner and fantasy owner want to spend.

[boltflasher]

Going to Bruins game tonight...last game as we now know the Lightning???

[wiggy]

It's an absolute certainty.

[boltflasher]

Was never down on Tortorella till I saw a limited talent Isles beat and outhustle the Bolts a couple of days ago...now I know the coach is a problem also...the question is, does management? The system they play as put in by Torts is fine, but they now need someone else to coach it...

[Mike13]

Yeah, I have never been a huge Torts fan. He is WAY too hot-headed for me. I've had bosses like that. Fear can only motivate people so much. At some point --and it's different for everyone --you just get sick of the anger being thrown at you and you start to doubt that anything is worth putting up with it.

The way the team has been playing lately, it seems obvious to me that they are doubting.

[David]

It's sort of fun you know, I wake up every morning and run to the websites to see if the big deal has come through. Like waiting for Christmas.

As for management changes.

Jeff Reese, has he developed a single goalie in his time here?

Feasterella has been discussed to death.

Bill Barber, he's supposed to be the hockey man under Feaster. I'd like to know if he and his people approved of the Modin-Norena for Denis trade or opposed it. If they did approve that one, our scouting department needs to go.

I wonder if Ramsey would come back.

Sullivan eh, I don't see that he's doing any harm or good. Under a dictator I can't actually say I can fairly evaluate him.

This could be train wreck city coming up, OK may find financing, close the deal and we'll have a very hands-on owner who just previously screwed over his previous partners. I have a bad feeling about OK that I hope is unwarranted. I can see Mark Cuban, but without the success of the property happening.

[ajax]

I will be one of the first to step up. In the last month I have read so many blogs calling for the dump of Richards. Now that it is almost here(finally) it seems like half the blog is feeling bad, back peddling, maybe we shouldn't trade him. He is last on the team in hits and last on the team in plus/minus, two years running. It ain't a coincicdence and he wants nothing to do with play unless it is from blue line to blue line. He is very poor at the little things that make a good hockey player. Prospal bangs the boards and fights in front of the net. Bingo, he produces and pays the price. Richards is a finese player that absolutely needs forwards to do the things necesssary to succeed. That my friends is not the definition of a star. I can't believe what I am reading the last 36 hours. Two Dmen at 4mil each that actually win battles and actually protect the goalie. We get anything close to that and it will be a hands down win. That said I will believe it when I see it. And yes I agree with alot of people who fear they will free up the salary(awesome) and then not spend all of it(doomsday) Things had to change. One thing I know for sure and I sense most of you do. Of the fab4 he is the highest paid and he is the least respected as a player. It should be the other way around and isn't. That is the basis of any business decision. He is the odd man out for the obvious. 4th best player, 1st highest salary. If they get junk in junk out lets hope it is 1 year junk versus 3 more years of 7.8mil. The full equation will unfold weather Jay did us any favors. The new owners hold has many key answers as any player. With 12 total UFA this team has many more issues than trade Brad or Boyle or Vinny4. But getting in some size and grit will be a welcoome site to at least this blogger. I never said Brad Richards was a mule. I have always believed in value. Two 4mil players are better than one Brad Richards. I don't think the equation could be any simpler. If Boyle wants 7mil I will feel the same way about him. Dmen aren't for the most part paid like great forwards. You could get two awesome Dmen for 7mil. Let the abuse begin peace

[jr]

I think what you have been reading, ajax, in the past couple of days are several cases of seller's remorse. After all, Brad is a nice guy and has done a heckuva lot for the club. That being said, he is not worth the money and needs to go.

You are correct about the biggest future problem, that the $avings won't be spent, either by PSE or fantasy owner Koules. I still don't believe that the deal will go through with him, Berg, and Belinsky as the buyers.

I also agree with Wiggy that with all the dealing the Bolts are expected to do, a goaltender might not be part of the offing. Possibly a prospect but nobody that is ready to assume the reins.

We're all excited about freeing up cap space so that Boyle can be re-signed. None of that will mean squat, however, if next year's budget is $42 million.

Looking back, it's amazing that the Lightning won the Stanley Cup with Palace Sports at the helm. It makes me think Andreychuk might have been more responsible than anyone else for that magical season. He provided grit and leadership, two commodities the present bunch is lacking.

[ajax]

Think Gm, jr. Feaster: A very nice man that when you look at his plus/minus ratings he is right with Brad. He has been over his head since day one. GM of a sports franchise is not a good job for on the job training. People suggest that the draft is the soouts fault. Bullllloney. They work for him. In the business word the buck stops with the boss. He is the boss and the ship doesn't have holes it has been officially sinking for 2+ years now. When they clean house they need to start CLEAN.

[boltflasher]

Here's my thoughts on what is facing JF: First, I have to realize that I will not have the highest payroll, so the money must be spent wisely which leads to the question that I think JF is pondering right now.."Will the several players and cap space we can get for Richards and Boyle produce a better and deeper team than the 2 of them staying?"...Answer: Probably...so, I don't keep either...I trade them now for what I can get, goalie or no, and then go after a free agent goalie after the season. Don't get me wrong, the team has played much better since Boyle came back, but they are still in last place and have made no overall progess and Dan deserves his money but we can't afford him.
Second, I replace Torts with Andreychuk and keep the same system in place. I think the team would respond well to Dave and finish the season strong (hmmm...on second thought maybe make this change AFTER the season so we get a shot at one of the top two picks or let Sullivan finish it out on an interim). Maybe, DB and Prosp will come back for less money to play for Dave...The pursuit of a free agent goalie will need a new coach at the helm also, as I can not imagine any of them wanting to play for goalie killer Torts..

[The Accountant]

You guys don't really believe the 42 mil figure do you? That was a comment from someone who's over 1400 miles away and doesn't have a clue as to what the teams possible budget will be next year. Until you get the official word and REAL number, forget the 42 mil figure. It's BS! It's a waste of time crying over a number some moron pulled out of his behind.

[Bill Berg]

Trade players that do not want to HIT and DIG in corners! We need more players that skate 110% on the ice and HIT, DIG and will STAND in front of the NET. Have you seen anyone in front lately other than Gratton, Tarnasky, McDonald, Prospal? Get back as much as you can for Richards, Boyle, Prospal, and any one else but only keepers on forward lines would be V4 any Marty. D-men trade Boyle, Kuba to stock up on YOUNGER, HUNGRY, AGGRESSIVE players to develop within next 1-3 seasons.

[jr]

Where are you an accountant? In Fantasyland?

Sorry to disillusion you, but the figure is from a reliable source and fits in with Koules track record and apparent lack of resources.

The media that is a lot closer than 1,400 miles--like a half mile and 25 miles respectively--haven't done such a hot job in vetting either ownership group. The bloggers have been more on top of this than either one of them.

Do you work for PSE????

[The Accountant]

No jr, I don't work for PSE and what if I did? What do they have to do with Koules proposed budget anyway? That number was reported as Koules. Not PSE's.

I'm not clear how that figure fits in with Koules "track record." Maybe you can help me with that. Oh, you mean his track record of having financing in place only to see the bank uncover 7+ billion in losses and pull out at the last minute? Bad Oren, that had to be his fault. I guess it went unoticed that he had financing back in place in short order.

Koules has never made any comment as to budget. As a matter of fact, he's said little. The 42 mil figure came from a canadian reporter. I believe that. I believe every rumor I hear, especially one from a source as reliable as a canadian reporter. The same guy who has had Vinny traded 6 or 7 times over the last few years.

[jr]

He doesn't have any financing in place. You have no credibility.

[The Accountant]

It is in place. Not final yet, but a loan commitment has been issued. It's joint financing with 3 different lenders all taking a piece of the total loan amount. PSE would not accept the offer without a loan commitment. That's what took so long in the first place. This financing was on the back burner as a backup if needed. That's why the commitment was issued so quickly after the first deal went sour. The backround work had already been done.

That still doesn't mean it will close. Just like a home mortgage. It ain't closed till it's closed. Nevertheless, a loan commitment is only issued after a lender has had the time to review the deal. Credit, asset checks, and the like. No lender in the world issues a commitment unless they are absolutely sure they like the deal. Lenders don't want to waste their time. All that remains is dotting the i's and crossing the t's. Formalities if you will.

Koules is the next owner. Get used to it.

[jr]

"Koules, 47, responsible for the gruesome Saw movies, still must secure his financing, and the NHL's Board of Governors must approve the transfer of ownership. The purchase agreement gives Koules 105 days, to May 29, to get things done or Palace Sports can revisit the agreement."

That's from a local source which seems more to your liking.

[Casper]

Guilty as charged, with seller's remorse. I'll stand tall and admit it.

However hard I try to forget the feckless wafting away from the action and boards, I still wish to remember as we do our kids, when they were young, dumb and full of ***. Vinny and Brad were something else and this franchise was like a light switch got turned on when those two arrived.
But since that dark day when Richie drove home the Brinks truck, it's been lights out again.
Not entirely his fault, but $15.6 million reasons are on his stick.

Get it done ASAP, and Godspeed to all is what I wish.

Admit to a great festerin' woodrow on the notion of spending $7.8M on two defensemen to help Ramo show everyone what he's got in the tank.

Go Bolts, Rammer's got more class than to laugh at y'all tonight.

[Nils]

What's so amusing about that exchange is that the guy says so what if he did work for PSE. That is sooo funny since that whole outfit--Wilson, Campbell, Feaster, have lied through their teeth from August on.

Who do I believe Accountant, you or my lyin' eyes?

[The Accountant]

Yes jr, Koules has to "secure" his financing. That means have it transfered into an escrow account so the funds can be transferred to the seller at closing. How many times have you applied for a mortgage and been told you are approved? Does the lender transfer the money immediately? No! The process takes time yet once commitments are issued it's typically nothing more than formality.

That said, it's not a done deal yet but's as close as it will come without closing. League approval won't be a problem. There's a reason Bettman stepped in. Alot was uncovered during the first attempt which turned out to be an abortion. Koules was not at fault there. Bettman saw the resources and desire of Koules and stepped in to pave his way.

Look, with all due respect, I've been involved with financing for the better part of 15 years. On both the lenders side and borrowers side. That doesn't mean I know if this deal will close or not. All it means is that based on those years I see a deal closing.

The issue now is where is the money attached? Koules is buying a franchise, a lease, and land. Lenders don't like to lend on leases and rightfully so. There considered "unsecured." They want the bulk of the loan on the property and the rest on the franchise. That creates an issue with developing the property. Something Koules wants to do but lien restrictions could hamper that attempt. THAT is what is being negotiated right now. NOT if he can get the money. It's already been promised. It's a matter of making the terms something all can live with. Not just the land, it has to do with repayment terms and the like. Is this interest only with a 3 year balloon? Is the loan fully amortized for 20 or 30 years? 40 years? On the face of it, it's a simple process but very time consuming process. That's what negotation is all about.

[The Accountant]

Thats the point nils. The so called 42mil cap number supposedly came from outside PSE. They had nothing to do with it. If PSE had said it, I'd believe it just as much as I believe in Santa.

PSE had nothing to do with it. That report was supposedly attributed to Koules NOT PSE!

Koules could lie through his behind too. Who knows? At this point we have no proof he has. He hasn't said squat. Nobody knows what the budget will be under his ownership if he does indeed become the owner. Till then, ain't much to stand on is there? Unless of course you too believe whatever you read.

[jr]

After all your self-righteousness, you say they have been assured the money but only the terms need to be settled? That does not consitute a loan or even a loan committment. You claim special knowledge but any layman would know that.

The terms are part and parcel of the loan and if they can't be met, such as 20 percent ($40 million down), there is no loan.

You are nothing but a blowhard.