Lightning gets rights to Ryan Malone, Roberts

The Lightning pulled off another pre-free agency trade Saturday, acquiring the negotiating rights to forwards Ryan Malone and Gary Roberts from the Penguins for the fourth-round pick in 2009 the Lightning acquired from Dallas in the Brad Richards deal. Compensation becomes a third-round pick if Tampa Bay signs Malone.

The deal is similar to the one the Lighting made to get the rights for Vinny Prospal. You have to believe Tampa Bay believes it can sign Malone and Roberts before the free agency period begins. It would be a nice addition to a team looking for top-six forwards, but a bit of a chance depending on how much the Lightning ends up paying.

Malone, 28, a 6-foot-4, 224-pounder, had 27 goals, 51 points in 77 games. He also play with the edge the Lightning desperately needs with 103 penalty minutes. A great person in the locker room, Malone camps out in front of the net on the power play and played the Stanley Cup final with a broken nose after taking a shot in the face. The question is, in a free agent year in which there is so little depth at forward, how much will Malone want. Speculation is in the $5-million range. He would play on the second line with Steve Stamkos.

Asked if in a year in which free agent depth at forward is so shallow, he is worried about overpaying, owner Oren Koules said, "The answer is no."

"He's prototypical of what all of us have been looking for in a hockey player," Koules added.

Roberts is a bit of surprise, given how new ownership the past few days and coach Barry Melrose, keeps saying how much younger the team is going to get. Roberts is 42 and had just three goals in 38 games last season while suffering from a broken left leg and high ankle sprain. He has 434 goals in his career. he also wants to be closer to his family in Canada and is expected to want to sign with the Maple Leafs or Senators. But he has been a god leader throughout his career, so perhaps Melrose and owner Oren Koules can pursuade him to take a chance on the Lightning. And, in fact, Roberts had to waive a no-trade clause, so there might actually be some interest. Would seem Roberts is seen as a third-line guy and a locker-room presence that would command respect from young and old players alike.

Roberts' agent Rick Curran said Roberts did, indeed, want to play closer to home. But he had such a blast playing last season with the Penguins' youngsters, such as Jordan Staal, he would love the chance to work with Steve Stamkos.

"Rob gets excited by stuff like that," Curran said. "He's pretty enthused. ... If we can get something done, he's not against the possibility. It could be fun."

"We've been talking so much about changing the culture of our dressing room to make sure it's 20 guys going in the same direction," Koules said. "There's nobody who epitomizes team and ruggedness and willing to win a hockey game than Gary Roberts. We want that voice and leadership in our room." 

Comments

[Casper]

Hey, if we eventually get Malone, give him #19 so Brian Bradley and I can get some self respect back.

[Drew]

Yeah, Brad Richards winning the Conn Smythe and helping us win the cup was a disgrace to the legend of Brian Bradley.

[who cares about brian bradley]

The name says it all. What did he ever do for us, other than set a bunch of weak records for Vinny and Brad to break.

[Casper]

Wow genius, you think Bradley--if surrounded by Richards' cast in '03-'04 would do any worse? No talking to you, then.

Brian Bradley made others around him play better, period. Granted, it was a sorrya$$ time for the Lightning, but one shudders thinking if Brad Richards could have worn Bradley's skates in the early to mid '90's.

Keep thinking inside that tiny box, you'll be fine....

Go Bolts!

[Leanmean43]

These would be great pickups for the Bolts if they can get them signed. I wonder if they plan to sign another top six forward in Free agency.

[who cares about brian bradley]

how much are those instant traffic reporters?

[Mitchie]

how exciting!

[Mike13]

Signing Malone would be a fantastic thing for this franchise. Wow, talk about building some serious depth...

Roberts on the other hand? I guess he gives us that veteran leadership that Feaster was talking about a month or two ago. Otherwise, he's pretty much a waste. He's not a top 6 forward any more. I'd rather see Jokinen, Halpern/Gratton, and Ouellet tear it up.

[Bryan]

Jesus christ no! I don't want that idiot Roberts here! Don't waste cap space on that has been pile of trash!

I see Roberts as more of a player/coach type. Maybe play 30-50 games. Malone would be a huge upgrade as long as it's under 3.5 mil a year. It would be hard to pay Malone more than what Prospal just received. Prospals stats are way better then Malone and he's a top line wing.

[skyjive]

It's tough to gauge this until either one signs. Malone would be a perfect addition to the second line. Add some toughness and a bit of protection for Stamkos. Jokinen doesn't seem like the dig-in-the-corner scoring type we've been missing on the 2nd line since Modin. You can't really get too excited though until he signs, as he supposedly wants to test the waters.

Roberts is also interesting but actually makes a bit of sense. He's definitely not making us younger, but there's quite a gap on the 3rd line with Halpern gone til at least Jan (if not longer). Roberts could probably fill in nicely until then, and then there's the posibility of him getting traded to Toronto (or wherever else he supposedly wants to go) or staying if the team goes anywhere. Two solid pieces coming over, but this one's tough to judge until one or both signs.

[Dick Tracy]

Insiders report the plan that the Malone offer will involve a $21 million package deal on a 5-year contract. It will be made clear that the deal will be taken off the table, perhaps for good, when the July 1 UFA party begins.

Before this happened Malone said that he would wait until July 1, but how sincere was that? Edmonton has made no secret of their interest in Malone, and it is well known that there is very strong interest in him around the league. According to the rules, no team is allowed to talk to him or his agent until Tuesday without the permission of the Lightning.

Roberts' family is in Canada and he expressed interest in signing with a team up there, but with Cliff Fletcher running the show in Toronto (Roberts' favored location), it is not likely that he'll get what he wants. With a background of injuries and a long tooth (42 years), he is lucky to get a good offer. Given his style of play, he certainly must know that he'll fit in well on a Melrose team.

[Goalman]

All I can say is OH! KAY! Oren is living up to promises. Ryan Malone is perfect. He has good skills, Is young enough to help the team for a few years and ,best of all has a GIGANTIC heart. There will be no messing with S.S. with Malone on his line. I'm not sure about Gary Roberts. I know that he is a pain in the A-- to play against ,but he may be too far along in his career. On the other hand, think about Dave Andreychuk and what he brought to the team in the way of experience and maturity. Roberts may just be what the younger players need.
Furthermore, I don't think we're finished in the Free agency market. How excting is this? C'mon opening game!!!

[Jake]

Casper:

Are you smoking something? Brian Bradley was a good player. BUT, Brian Bradley and Brad Richards are two entirely different players. In fact, the only 2 things I would say they shared is the B in their first names and the number 19.

You dont think that Brad Richards made players around him better? I would have to say you fell off the stupid tree and hit every branch, twig, and leaf on the way down.

I watched every single game at the Barn and the Thunderdome up until the new building and every other game on TV. Richards was a dynamic player who sucked in the corners, but was and still is one of the best setup guys in the league.

Brian Bradley played at a time in lightning history where we cant really say IF or HOW he would have done if he had the type of talent that Richards had to play with. Your argument doesnt hold water anyway because your comparing players that NEVER played together or in the NHL together.

So for jeepers sakes, let go of Brian Bradley already, its almost creepy.

[who cares about brian bradley]

cheers

[Tony]

Malone yes...Roberts? Are you kidding me?

[Hawkeye]

"the Malone offer will involve a $21 million package deal on a 5-year contract."

If so, don't expect Prospal to be a happy-camper (while making less on the 1st line).

Roberts is a better player than Tim Taylor and would be great for the 4th line and helping an atrocious penalty kill from a year ago as well as provide veteran leadership. Stop thinking of him in top 3 line terms. However, 2.5 mil may be a bit much for such a role unless the Bolts can squeeze 15 to 20 goals out of him...

Malone is good 2-way forward who can also kill penalties....Bolts PK is instantly improved with both these guys..

[Boltflasher]

Malone and Roberts has Melrose written all over it. I remember Barry praising both of these guys at ESPN.

[David]

Malone, OK.

Roberts, No Way.

He's way past his prime, and he showed distinct lack of character in the Stanley Cup Finals when he went head-hunting after a guy with a concussion. We don't need that riff-raff here. And I was a Maple Leafs fan before I moved to Tampa.

We need defensemen, not retirees.

[dave]

i know its off the main topic, but i have to chime in on the brad richards - bradley argument.

Brian Bradley was a good NHL player, Brad Richards is a very good NHL player. Brian Bradley is a flash light compared to a star such as Richards. I have talked to well respected NHL coaches and they laugh at all the Richards haters out there. He does so many small things well it doesn't get him enough attention. Richards is not one of the top 5 centers in the league, but is being paid as one, and that is the only true knock on him. His salary makes him overpaid, but take that away and every team in the NHL would take Brad as their 1st or 2nd line center in a heartbeat. (Besides maybe the Pens, who would love to have Brad as a top winger then)

[marosh]

Good news,
sign Rhett Warrener Or b.Orpik,

DREAM LINESUP

smith, ramo - boyle, Warrener, ranger,picard, obrien, lukowich - MVP line - malone, steven91, r. vrbata - jokinen, halpern, oulette - artukhin,craig, mcdonald, darche, roberts, tarnasky ....

this could be the most talented team in tampas history!!!

we dont need kuba, roy, ... gratton

one more thing : steven legein is a dream, please ask for him, dakujem

[Tom M]

Will we have to pay for Roberts' AARP memebership? Malone makes a lot of sense and will help the Lightning in front of the net where that wannabe Gratton was supposed to play...but Roberts? Mullet-Head and Chain-Saw must have had brain cramps when that deal was on the table.

[Boltflasher]

Could it be that Malone and Roberts will be used to also lure Orpik?

[ajax]

Both players are a significant upgrade....LARGE.... over the cast we have had here the last few years. Roberts at 42 is 5x the player Jason Ward is at 28. Sign them both. Maybe Koules is Spielberg in disguise?? Cause the hits just keep on getting better. I am getting mighty close to peeing my pants, over the start of the year. Please don't wake me up from this beautiful dream the last two weeks. Except Smellrose of course.
Richards or Bradley?? I will only say this gang, many posters said, do you think Brian Bradley could of played with the guys we had the last two years like Brad did?
Brian Bradley had 42 goals and 44 assists on a team that was by far dead last (29 points behind 5th place, in their division). We were an expansion team that year and Chris Kontos might have been the second best player on the team. That year the Lightning were 23-54-7 and I had season tickets and Brian Bradley did not have Vinny and Marty and Prospal manning the power play I can assure you. I think the 42 goals says it all. Is their anybody in the world that believes Brad RIchards would score 42 goals for an expansion team? pppppllllllleeeeeeeaaaaaaassssse. He couldn't score 42 goals on a line with Crosby and Ovechkin. I know I know, he is an assist man. I guess you know how I really feel.
So much euphoria, let's not dwell on 7,800,000 heartaches (times 5)

Could we PLEASE stop dwelling on Brad Richards...we now have Steven who will be alot better...PLEASE!!!!!!

[dave]

Bradley's 42 goals in 1992-1993 season was great, it was also at a time when 25 other players scored 40 plus goals. Yes, scoring 30 or 40 goals back in the early 90's was pretty common. Guys like Rick Tocchet and Kevin Stevens would score around 50 goals. How many goals might Richards of scored back then with any linemates? I know Bradley didn't have MLS or Modin as linemates, but he was on our top line, getting PP time and playing during a time when 30 and 40 goals was common. So looking at the stats isn't a great indication of who might have been a better player.

[gareth]

stop complaining about roberts. This was a package move but everyone knows Malone was the main target. And the compensation only kicks in if malone signs. Ryan would be fantastic on the 2nd line and Gary, tho I think he's only listed for flash, would add some vet leadership to the lockerroom. Not to mention depth.

Great moves, get their hancocks please

[Mike13]

Very interesting idea Boltflasher...

[who cares about brian bradley?]

Brad may not have scored 42 even in that era, but I'm sure his club record of assists would've been near untouchable in that scoring era.

ajax, do us all a favor and forget richards. he and his contract have been traded and he is not here anymore. i have no clue as to why you insist on bringing him up in every third post of yours. it is obvious your infatuation with him is not normal. did he sleep with your woman or something?

give us all a break and drop it for goodness sake. it has become obnoxious. leave it alone, he is gone. get it out of your head.

[Sid Stacey]

Malone, yes yes yes
why not go for a goal scorer like michael Ryder of Montreal. He scored a ton of goals for the Habs in three years. He could certainly help the Lightning so that they don't have to depend on the first line

[Tony]

If you sign Roberts it better not be for more than $1 mil for 1 year which equals about 40 games at this stage of his career...I agree, I think he was a throw in for this deal to be made.

[matt]

Anyone realize the Bolts hired Malone's father as a scout? TSN updated the article to add that bit of drama.

[Nate Dogg]

Yes, very interesting, Boltflasher...one can only hope the likes of Orpik could come in and play 3rd defenseman.

A core of

Boyle-Ranger
Picard-Orpik
Kuba- O'Brien

doesn't sound bad at all...even replacing Orpik's name with Mike Commodore wouldn't be a bad thing. I dig you're thinking Boltflasher!

P
Nate Dogg

[Nate Dogg]

Roberts...I never thought he was gonna play hockey after he broke his leg...yet here I stand corrected. I know he wouldn't be a bad addition to our 4th line, but come on!

Let the guy out to pasture, already! He's had a great career! Keep it at that!

ND

[Don in St. Pete]

Sage words from Skyjive, Dick Tracy and Goalman! Ajax, although we've diagreed often, I have to say your last post was almost verbatim what I would have said. Thanks! To you naysayers out there who said don't go after Tucker and now say don't go after Roberts, I say, what is this a popularity contest or hockey? There's a reason Gary Roberts is a borderline hall of famer and it's not just because of goals and assist's. He had his teamates back everytime they stepped on the ice. While he's past his prime, I think he's be a great fit filling in for Halpern until he comes back. he also brings a strong work ethic to the room. All you people saying, no, no ,no.....you'd better do your research. We need a guy like Gary Roberts, though the Malone part is huge and most of the weight for the pick. Malone is the key to what Stamkos will be able to accomplish this year no doubt, but I think Malone enjoyed filling this same role for the Pens the past 2 years with Crosby and Malkin. Those of you, poo-pooing the attempt to sign Roberts, I suggest you save the money you'd have spent on Lightning tickets and buy season tickets the Ballet or the orchestra. Us hockey fans are getting nicely acquaited with our new owners who clearly know the difference between a Ballet and a hockey game. We need to get tougher. You saw it in the last dozen or so games of the year when Roy was benched and Grats out. The ran MSL and injured V4. We cannot allow it to be common knowledge that teams can do this to us without retribution. This is not the high school prom, but hockey, the fastest, most demanding and most physical game of all. I've played every sport but nothing comes close to hockey except College Basketball, you have 45 seconds to make an impact or keep the other team from doing so. It is all out, puke your guts out over the effort, sports to the highest degree. Nobody shaves during their cup run for good reason, they still have the shakes from their extraordinary effort the night before. Don't sell the owners short. if they can make one or both of these deals happen that is huge for our clubhouse and the future of the Lightning. Also remember there are tons of Pitt fans in the local area. Welcome Gary and Ryan!

[olin storahund]

....how 'bout Huselius to go with Jussi- Husse is as fast and can score goal's, and I need a Swede on the team.

[olin storahund]

...I think you can remember when Calgary came into town last year, Husse nicked us for FOUR.

[bob]

Todd Bertuzzi anyone and qiut talking about the past Bradley and Richards ect ect Time to look at the future. It maybe fun especially if you dont listen to the nay sayers here

[Another Joe]

Prospal shouldnt be upset if Malone gets more then him. The big difference is Malone is 28 years old and Prospal is 33 years old.

[Don in St. Pete]

Any comparison between Ritchy and Brads would be unfair, but a few of the facts not touched on before should be mentioned. It's true that it was an expansion year so more players than normal reached the 40 oal plateau. It's also true that the old rules did not favor a smaller faster player. and that clutching and grabbing was rampant. Richards was more of a playmaker, but I think his true value was in running the PP. You saw how we did after he left, it wasn't pretty even with Boyle. Brads was a pure goal scorer and under todays rules would have lasted 10-12 season and averaged 35 per. Ritchy was the consummate setup man with nobody to pass the puck to the past 2 seasons. In my eyes their value was about equal but I would have liked to seen the damage they could have caused playing together.

[McGz]

I'm not a big fan of giving up so many draft picks, but if they sign Malone and Roberts to respective contracts it is definitely worth it. Malone is a big power forward that would be perfect on SS line. Roberts is also a gritty player with some skill in his own right. An upgrade at left wing on either the 3rd or 4th line. The only place I saw that Malone's dad was hired as scout was at TSN. Is this true?

[Steve]

Who cares about Richards/Bradley, neither of them is here, go to a bolts alumni site and debate that.

A 3rd or 4th round pick for the opportunity to sign an up and coming power forward to a multi-year deal, well worth the chance. Perhaps there is also some type of connection between Roberts and Malone? I also would like to Huselius, he would be a good fit with Stamkos (and Malone). I really do hope we reach out for a least one decent defenseman though, it almost scares me that they aren't talking about it considering our whole defense, outside of Boyle, are 5th or 6th defenseman on most other teams.

[ajax]

I only respond to pro-Richards blogs.
My infatuation with Richards starts and stops with how his contract, killed "US" for three long years. Brad Richards does not make other players good. The past two years is living proof of that ridiculous statement. He will never be the straw that stirs the drink, never. He will never be a dominant 5 on 5 player, never. He doesn't have the skill or the size to fill that role. Tonight, next month and next year I will always find it incomprehensible that anyone could equate largest contract in NHL to Brad RIchards (top 50 or 60th best player in the NHL, maybe) They always get me riled, the softness of his game is what irked me for two long years. The insistence that he would be fine if they just brought in the right all-stars to play with him.
I am done, I was having such a nice day. By the way, Brad Richards tied for 91st this year in goals. Add that undeniable stat to this one: among players that played over 50 games, only 8 players had fewer hits. 13 for the entire year!!! My Infatuation??? AHHHHHHHHHH!!!!
Did anyone watch the playoffs and see the true leader of Dallas making 5 million, Brenden Morrow?? He was third in the league in hits with 260, and in one playoff game versus Detroit had 19 hits in the game, for you poor at math, that is more hits in one game than Brad Richards did in an entire NHL season. And one more undeniable stat. He went to Dallas and again couldn't be the go to guy. Couldn't crack the top line. It wasn't until the last three games of their playoff run that they even put him on the first team Power play. He will fall under just as much pressure in Dallas for underperforming as he did here. No, more because they are much more of a hockey city. I am counting to ten but it isn't working!!!! Chill man chill. Leo where are ya, Bear??? call 911. Jay Feaster improved from a F to a D with one remarkable trade that finally freed us from an unparalled financial anchor called Brad Richards (aka, the wine taster)
Going forward, it has been a nice two weeks, hasn't it everyone?? Roberts is everything you want in the locker room, on the power play etc. He is a hockey player, period.

[Don in St. Pete]

Ajax, there was a reasonRichards was nominated for the Lady Biong Trophy. Ajax, while I agree with everything you've said, our PP has sucked sincher Ritchy left despite having Boyle. I believe the answer is to trade Boyle, not dwell on Richards.

for someone not infaturated, or obsessed, you surely know all his stats. maybe it is not that he stole your woman away. i think you have a man crush and were rebuffed.

leave it alone. it is done. move on. there has to be a fresh idea somewhere. richards contract and the denis trade are over. both are done. move along dude. or......live in the past forever.

[Don in St. Pete]

A 3rd or 4th round draft pick to put in perspective, oould be 3-4 years out. Malone and Roberts availability enters the here and now. $21mil over 5 seems a fair offer since most were predicting $4Mil per to sign Malone. Next up Vrbata and the ultimate line to have bewhind the MVP line. Tampa Bay and the Stanley Cup, uilikely bedfellows.

[léo]

What if Malone says no and Roberts says yes? What do you owe Pittsburgh then?
Ajax,
Gotta agree. BR19 didn't elevate as he should've. Is it due to a cumulative Tortie effect? Who knows. But he ain't the player he was. He's lost his Motivation. (UNLIKE Kovy, who's REGAINED it!, which only PROVES you haven't been watching, folks...ego, indeed)
Brad's best game in Dallas? His first. 5pts, remember? He was Motivated. Now, I dunno. I'm surprised; thought fersure he'd take over in Dallas. Oh well...scr*w'im. Can't play; stay home.
And remember: 7.8$... Better them than you, right? Scr*w Dallas...suckers.
Anyways, Malone,
Keep in mind, it wasn't the kid's call. He didn't have TB on his list; he was SENT here. Now hold on, I'm not peein' in the soup; this is still good.
Right now, the kid is like, "Aw man, TB..."
But if you offer him, let's say...20mil for 5 yrs. Or 4yrs. Which is crazy! But let's say. 20mil! Sign here, kid. Boom. 20mil; it's yours; sign right here. Let's go, kid; time is money. No, don't look out the window. Sign. Sign now.
Well, you'll get his attention, and with the cap steadily rising to aid the richer teams (tee-hee), his contract will seem like a BARGAIN in 3yrs.
One last thing,
Kouliwood sure can gun those engines.
But can he steer?
P.

[Zim]

Nice typo in this article DC - sickly timed error with your snipe at the bolts marketing boys.

Did you mean "God" leadership skills really?

Either way, I like this move a lot, it shows the new guys are aggressive, but I bet he signs for close to $5million for a longer term deal, 5 years minimum

[Mike13]

Kouliwood? LOL! That's pretty good Leo.

I like the idea of Orpik coming in. He's pretty steady. I also like Olin's idea of Huselius. He would do well with a power forward on his line. And, I like the thought of a sniper like Ryder. I'm not sold on the idea of Vrbata. Granted, he had a bit of a coming out party last year, but I wonder if he can sustain that kind of productivity.

I can't stand the idea of Tucker, Roberts, or goodness PLEASE NO to Bertuzzi.

All this makes me wonder about Jussi Jokinen and Michel Ouellet. I guess they are headed for the 3rd line if they remain here at all.

[Zim]

finishing my above post, on why 5million for a long deal. To get him to sign early we will have to have some extra in the deal for him some how, that comes with an extra year or two or premium money

[Don in St. Pete]

Mike 13, While we're waiting the years to classify you for what. you are emmitting itg will be ineresring t0 see hoe it folds out.

[California Kevin]

RDS is saying Roberts has already been signed although, not reading French, I am relying on TSN bloggers for translation. Not a lot of credibility there. I have not found any substantiation for the rumor that TheBolts have signed Greg Malone, Ryan's father, to a prominant scouting role. With all this positive action (or rumor)I am getting excited and watched the championship DVD last night again. GO BOLTS!!!!!

[California Kevin]

RDS is saying Roberts has already been signed although, not reading French, I am relying on TSN bloggers for translation. Not a lot of credibility there. I have not found any substantiation for the rumor that TheBolts have signed Greg Malone, Ryan's father, to a prominant scouting role. With all this positive action (or rumor)I am getting excited and watched the championship DVD last night again. GO BOLTS!!!!!

[Don in St. Pete]

To me it is critical to sign Malone, there is nobody wlse out there who can play defense and give us a Q but everything else poinyd to him as my #3.

[Mike13]

It'll be interesting that's for sure Don. I think that it is great that there is some energy in the front office nowadays. With virtually no activity for the past 10 months, I think it kind of made us all a bit depressed to see our Bolts sinking slowly into oblivion and the front office not doing anything about it. We all know the circumstances, but Davidson and Palace Sports really handcuffed this organization this past year.

It's just nice to see that the guys making decisions actually have a pulse again. :o)

[Pat664422]

Our team makes a move like this and we have people still piling Richards, one of the true heroes in the Lightning's short history. I guess old habits die hard. For the new people on this blog, you just have to learn to skip over posts from the Richards-hating knuckle-draggers - they can't be reasoned with.

Back on topic, a move like this makes me start to believe the comparisons of Koules to Mark Cuban. Ryan Malone was the one winger in free agency I was excited about. If the Lightning sign him, I'll start to have some hope for the coming season... except there's still the fact Barry Melrose still has to shake off a decade's worth of rust to get back to being a questionable coach at the NHL level? But things are starting to look better.

[Bryan]

So Malones ex-agent and his father are now employees of OK Hockey, and it just so happens his rights get traded to Tampa... this is looking better and better.

[Boltflasher]

Does the Roberts acquisition signal the end of the Artuhkin, Gratton, Tarnasky line? I see a 2nd free agent on line 2, with the 3rd line of Jokinen, Halpern, and Ouellet (who is yet another ex-Penguin), and then Roberts, Artuhkin so far for the 4th. Maybe Grats won't be resigned (what a waste of a 2nd round pick) and it'll be Tarnasky with Roberts and Arty

[Bingo]

WOW - they stated "Aggressive" and I don't know what else this could be called. So for all those talking about a 40mil cap for the team better up it by 10mil or so. I'll be calling about tickets to add a couple if this deal gets done. We have just moved from wanna be's to in the game. Granted injuries can kill you but these guys won't be letting that happen with the current signings.
Arty, Malone, Roberts, Tarnansky and maybe a Mihalik(sp) / Smaby to knock some teeth out the backs of Marty, Vinny and Stamkos will be covered.
I'm trying to figure out the lines that will be fun fun fun. Grats, Roy, Ward, Darche gone and several others on the block...... Good moves OK Hockey is better that Palace Escapades and the butter cup who's not been seen in over a week at any bolt event...... He's home on the coach dialing torts for condolences to be sent his way.....

Way to go Oren..... this is exciting.

Bingo

[bob]

Hey I see thats it Koules talking to the press. Where is feaster. mmmmm

[Don in St. Pete]

Great move by OK! Please sign them ASAP! Malone would be the perfect linemate for SS and Roberts would be a great 3rd line guy to fill in until Halpern returns. We will still need to sign Grats as our 4th line center and we should sign Darche and Mcdonald to 2 way contracts, to play at Norfolk in case of injury. A direct correlation could be made between Roberts and the Andreychuck signing. This deal would make us tougher top to bottom, across all lines. Get `er done OK! This move gives us a huge advantage if we can sign both players but especially Malone. We would only be lacking a right winger for the Stamkos line heading into FA. Stamkos must be pumped!, thinking about playing with Malone. Feaster is probably working the phones laying the groundwork for the last piece of the puzzle, but clearly not calling the shots anymore.

[Boltflasher]

Don, stop for a moment...Grats as 4th line center?....Where does Tarnasky play???? Artukhin???...there is no room for Gratton on this team when Halpern comes back. I do not think he will be resigned...Tarnasky will center the 4th line between Roberts and Artukhin...Tarns is a center who's been playing out of position..

[Boltflasher]

If Grats does return, it may be as insurance for Halpern in case he can't bring it anymore on 2 fixed knees..

[Bryan]

Bob, I think if you stop and look around you'll notice that its pretty plain as day that Feaster is no longer making personnel decisions.

Flasher, IIRC Gratton has not been extended an offer and I think his location will be dependent on the talks between TB and Malone/Roberts. These guys have NOT signed yet from everything i've read so lets not jump ahead of ourselves.

[Not the Marlboro Man]

I had to think all night about what good Gary Roberts would do for the Lightning. IMO, not much as player, but as a presencs in the locker room and on special teams and practice, his experience would provide the intageable that you need to succeed. I don't think many players would have to worry about losing playing time Roberts. Roberts is a guy they are looking for to tweek special teams and to provide professional critique to young players, like Stamkos, in special situations. I hope they can pick Roberts up because this guy is a quality character, but all I've heard is how he wants to go back to Ontario to be close to his family. When he was with Florida he absolutely hated it. He then waived his NTC and asked to be traded to Ottawa or Toronto. If the Bolts can't get Roberts they should try to get Marty Gelinas or someone else who provides quality leadership and character. This, IMO is why the Bolts struggled the last two seasons...recall the downward spiral the Bolts took after the dismissal of Dave Andreychuk. Some one said it well...Roberts would be better than Tim Tailor, who was a quality guy, but he wasn't the man to replace Andreychuck. With all that said, I kinda like the way the Bolts are shaping up. It looks like they are trying to go for the quality characters....thats why they shold stay away from Marian Hossa...who is all about himself first.

[Lisa]

I think Gratton will be re-signed. Stamkos said that when he was picked by the Lightning, Vinny, Marty and Gratton were the ones to text him and welcome him to the team. I also read somewhere that the plan for Stamkos was to live with Gratton and his family for the first year.

[olin storahund]

...as for all the offensive chat, let's not forget about the Defense....we still need to pick up a stay at home, tough guy, like an Orpik.
Kuba and Lukowich, supposed veteran's, don't get it with me, occasionally Luk show's toughness and character, but I think his head is more into his music, and both are aging. Kuba, forget it....

[Boltflasher]

Thanks, Bryan, I am the first to agree not to get ahead of ourselves(but like Ajax, I am about to pee in my pants on the possibility of Malone on SS's line)...if both of these guys are signed then I think Gratton will not be, no place for him then. But, I think Koules thinks he can do this otherwise they would not have made the trade. I was responding more to statements that Grats should be resigned...lets see how this plays out first with Malone/Roberts...

[Bingo]

I understand the agents were working yesterday to iron out the details of the contract(s). Feasty was no where's to be found. It was the Lawton guy in charge of the dealings and it looks like 5 year deal 23mil 4.6 a year. I think that a chunk but he is 28 young and there is room under the cap. Roberts I understand is in the 1.2 - 1.4 area as a replacement for grats. Who would you want teaching the young kid? Grats or Roberts for me the latter makes much more sense.

I can't wait for October training camp and then the games..... Sweet Sweet Sweet.

[Fishbone Creative]

Malone will sign with Tampa.

His agent (Mike Liut) is a former partner with Tampa's new Director of Hockey Operations, Brian Lawton.

Secondly, and more importantly, the Lightning have offered Ryan's dad, Greg, a job. He is currently scouting for the Coyotes -- and was formerly a scout for the Penguins, before being shown the door by Pens management.

Enjoy the 3rd round pick..Pittsburgh. We'll enjoy Malone!!

[léo]

That's a very interesting thought, Fishbone. Depends on what kinda dad Malone has. Is it, "C'mon, son, let's do this together!", or is it, "Well son, you gotta look at everything before you decide what's right for you." ?
But a very interesting thought...It looks like something more positive than negative for TB. Good call.
Marlboro Man,
Excellent post. Everything you said about Roberts is EXACTLY what he's called to do. Consider that, regardless of his age, he is still one intimidatin' fella, who COMMANDS respect.
Would I have'im on my team? No. Neither would I have Tucker. But forced to choose, I would take Roberts waaaay before Tucker. Why? Presence. Respect. And a touch of nastiness. The kids will feel secure.
However, the Hossa angle,
Totally disagree. Listen, ain't gonna lie to ya: I felt the same way about him at first. Like alot of folks who watched Ottawa SUCCINCTLY crash and burn, I dumped Hossa in with all those money-playin', gritless bums, ESPECIALLY after he became a Marquee player. All about himself.
I have now changed my mind about Hossa. As you all should too. (Listen to Leo; Leo knows) Hossa is the quietest, sweetest, most unobstrusive guy you could meet. NOT a cancer, as some suggest; just a guy who gets alot of attention because he's friggin' good!
His "lack of grit in the playoffs" label has been firmly ripped off his jacket. He DOMINATED in the series, MUCH MORE than Crosby, imo. Agree or disagree? Say what you will about Crosby and Malkin, but the Sparkplug? The Real Sparkplug for the Pens in the series?
Hossa.
Malkin was a God in the 1st 2 series, then disappeared with the flu.
Crosby was all-around solid. Hey, he's the best. But he didn't ELEVATE. He was "Regular Crosby", not "Super-octane Crosby". Agree or disagree?
Whereas Hossa was just Cruisin'! Ott,Nyr,Phi,Det, didn't make no difference.
All about the money? No.
His AGENT'S all about the money, and Hossa is content to let him talk, considering it's in his interest.
Whoever pays the 7.5, 8mil for him is GOING to get a return on his investment, no?
P.

[léo]

Oh jeez, wanted to add,
Mike Liut, happy he's still around.
Don't know if y'all remember but during a stretch, 84,85,ESPECIALLY 86, Mike Liut was The Man.
He TERRIFIED Us.
To Mtl fans, in those days, Liut was the Brodeur of his generation. He DOMINATED Us. ALL the time. We couldn't beat him.
By FAR the MOST glorious episode of My life with the St-Flanelle is Claude Lemieux's game7 overtime winner against Hartford (who were a Powerhouse, if you recall).
When it went into overtime, HabNation wailed in grief, cuz Liut was The Man. We thought it was OVER. Should see the goal that beat him. An Impossible Shot (backhand!) that no HUMAN could stop.
I'm happy We won...
But I'm sad for Liut, Our nemesis. He was SO hot against Us...
That he DESERVED the Cup at least once in his life. Happy to see he's still in the game.
Tough titty, said the cat to the kitty. You shoulda stopped that shot.
Yo.

[SeattleBoltFan]

This is an awesome move! Malone has been one of Pitts best players and is a valuable player to have in the playoffs. He might not have the flash of Crosby, Malkin, and Hossa, but unlike them he is not afraid to get dirty and beat the crap out of the opposing teams defensemen. Assuming the Lightning sign Malone and the team can hopefully stay healthy next season then the Lightning could win the division. Unfortunately coaching and goaltending are still a question in my mind. Hopefully the mullet can pull them through.

[Don in St. Pete]

When they signed Artyukhin, Feaster said explicitly that "Koules loved the idea of a Gratton, Artyuhkin, Tarnasky, Crash Line". That may have changed or Melrose might have had other ideas, but Gratton was our best faceoff guy and he brings a very physical element that the new owners and coach seem to favor. I wouldn't be dismissing Gratton yet.

[Boltflasher]

Eklund is reporting that the Bolts have inked both Malone and Roberts, but I never consider this site as reliable and need to see it somewhere as well...

[Boltflasher]

Don, on what line would Grats play and who would sit?

[matt]

http://www.sportsnet.ca/hockey/2008/06/29/lightning_signings/

There is another link.

"Lightning sign Malone, Roberts"
"Sportsnet.ca -- A day after trading for their rights, The Tampa Bay Lightning are close to signing Ryan Malone to a long-term year deal that will exceed $30 million and Gary Roberts to a one-year year deal that has the potential to reach $2 million, Sportsnet has learned.

An announcement could come as early as Monday. "

[Don in St. Pete]

Jon Jordan is also reporting that he verified Malone and Roberts have accepted offers. Boltflasher, I see our lines as follows.

1) V20, V4 and MSL
2) Malone, Stamkos, FA hopefully Vrbata
3) Jokinen, Halpern/Gratton, Ouellet
4) Roberts, Tarnasky, Artyuhkin

Tarnasky could end up being the odd man out when Halpern returns and I don't see anywhere that Ryan Craig fits into the picture either. Interestingly, on the NHL website if you click on players and the Malone or Roberts, they are listed as members of the Lightning! Rock on OK!

[Boltflasher]

Yep, Ryan Craig with his bad knee(s), as well as Halpern will have to show that they can still play...Grats could be insurance if neither can. But since you brought up Craig...what if he shows something in camp? Tarns down to minors? Does he still have options? Does Craig still have options?

[Don in St. Pete]

When, I clicked on the Sportsnet.ca link posted by Matt above there was also a story that the Kightning are shopping Boyle. No surprise there to me, thought it was worth mentioning.

[Boltflasher]

OK, if its true that 2 are signed, then is Orpik next on their radar?

[Boltflasher]

I think that is the Boyle rumour that was squelched

[Don in St. Pete]

Then they've squelched it pretty quickly as this article is from today! Here is the link.

http://www.sportsnet.ca/thewire/hockey/news_nyr/

It is a rumour of course, but I'll say again it wouldn't surprise me.

[Don in St. Pete]

Boltflasher, Actually I was hoping for Rob Blake! We'll see how it shakes out but I think training camp will be interesting this year with playres going to have to work their butts off to earn a spot.

[Boltflasher]

See "Koules, Melrose Mock Boyle rumour" on this site...also, the LA blogs are full of fans down on Blake for not being the player he used to be and one of the reasons the team is so bad defensively now, and questioning whether he can still go for 20 minutes..

[jay]

7 year deal exceeding $31 million

[léo]

Hey! Do we say Leo was right?
Or would you ALSO have offered 5+mil a year?
That's what trading the rights for players are for: SHOCKING a potential free-agent with money. Great move, TB!
Agree with Seattle,
It'll be a fight to the finish against the Cappers this year.
Goodbye, Caners.
Goodbye, Trashers.
And where the heck are you, Panters? Trading Ollie for whozat and whatizface? "We've shored up our blue-line." Fine Jacques.
But who's gonna score?
Back to TB,
Added some depth, good.
But you wanna impress Leo? REALLY impress him?
Get some bloody D!
Ta hell with smooth speedsters like Campbell and Streit.
Get Redden. Get that good'ole boy.
And stick him in the num3 def pos.
Listen to Leo.
And we might see each other next April.
Yo.

[Boltflasher]

Rumours are out there that Panthers may move Boummeester....which would rank right up there with Luongo trade..

[Boltflasher]

With the bad Jokinen trade by Fla and the dumping going on in Tor, let the Tavares sweepstakes begin...one of these 2 will probably be the winner. With each team's best player going elsewhere these teams will have are decent starting goalies but little else...would've added Bolts to these sweepstakes if not for the recent moves...

[léo]

Ouch, Boltflasher; that's harsh.
You've WON the sweepstakes, nevermind next year. Scheming to get the 1st pick is Absolute Weakness. Scr*w Toranna; they got what they deserve. As fer the Panters, I agree; now that you mention it, it DOES look like they wanna tank. Scr*w'em. Less opposition for you.
After Smith, Halpern and Melrose, I was like, "Let's watch and see."
But now, with Malone and Roberts? I'll go on record, like Our president, Mr.Boivin did last year and say,
"NOT making the playoffs is Unacceptable."
Yo.

[olin storahund]

....go to the lightning website and they are both listed on the roster of player's.....

[Don in St. Pete]

Olin, thanks for that tidbit. Leo it looks like you've thrown down the gauntlet and I hope we're up to reaching for it. You are right that it would be a disaster to miss the playoffs after these recent signings. We still need that other winger for the SS line and it could be a little dicey with Malone off the market. As a former defenseman, I know that is our weakest link now. We have a boatload of potential in our young guys but I agree that some veteran leadership is in order. However, I expect it will come via trade and not FA though I may be wrong. The Boyle trade rumours are resurfacing again today and it wouldn't surprise me if the Lightning went there. While Danny Boyle WAS one of the premier puck moving defenseman, I think we could deal him for a stopper type and some picks or prospects and sign someboy like Streit, Hainsey or Rozsival for less than half the money we're paying Boyle. The next 48 hours will be brutal.