Boyle waives no trade for San Jose

Lightning defenseman Dan Boyle has waived his no trade clause and agreed to a move to the Sharks. A conference call with the teams and the league is the last step to getting a deal done.

"Yes," Boyle's agent George Bazos said. "That's the way we're going. We went through the whole process and picked a place he's very happy to be. If the Lightning can go ahead and consummate a trade, then Dan is very happy with that."

The Sharks were desperate for a puck-moving defenseman after losing Brian Campbell to free agency, and yesterday signed Rob Blake to a one-year, $5-million deal. It was unclear if the Sharks and Lightning have a deal in place, but it is speculated any trade could include Matthew Carle, 23, who stumbled last season but had 11 goals and 46 points in 2006-07.

Canada's TSN confirmed Carle is indeed part of the deal that also includes Lightning defenseman Brad Lukowich. Tampa Bay also should get a first- and a fourth-round draft pick.

[Dirk Shadd, Times files]

Comments

[Remember]

We definitly should get Ehroff in this deal if not i cant imagine it working out in our favor.

[Another Joe]

Its just hockey business. Boyle was given to big of a contract. And its also sad because I like Boyle but from a business point of view its the right move. Good luck Dan you'll always be a big part of lightning histoty!

[Lisa]

I am disappointed that Danny is being traded.

Hey Danny, if you are reading any of these comments, good luck to you and your family. The fans in Tampa Bay love you and wish you all the best. You are a class act, and we have been lucky to have had you as a part of the Lightning organization and Tampa Bay community for the past several years. We look forward to seeing you here in the offseason!!!

[Sundance Kid]

DC, any chance at all of Sharks '07 1st pick from BC being in the mix? Nick Petrecki at 6-3, 210 is a stud. Carle and Petrecki, for DB and Jussi?

[Voice of the Turtle]

If the TSN story is correct, it is good-bye for Danny and Lukowich and hello to Matt Carle, a prospect, a 1st and a 4th round choice.

Carle was a disappointment last year, but he is young and talented. They used him generously on the PP.

Well, the prospect will be a question mark, the fourth round choice is a crap shoot, if San Jose does well (and, it is likely that it will) the 1st rounder will be at or near the bottom of the selecting list, and Matt Carle is far from a blue chip player.

This looks to be an outstanding deal...FOR THE SHARKS!

[boltcc]

STUPID MOVE...the team is THIN on defense and he is very good on special teams..a class act too..will be missed!
Don't blame him for moving, why would you want to stay with a team that is trying hard to get rid of you

[bolts1]

boyle and lukowich to SJ, for Carle, 1st rd pick , 4th round pick and a prospect....

[Lisa]

I don't think Danny had a choice. I read there was a possibility if Danny didn't waive his NTC that he would be placed on waivers and could have been picked up by anyone, and he would not have had a choice of where he was going. This way, he was able to decide where he wanted to go.

I am disappointed in this move by the owners. Boooo!

[Scott]

To me the only upside we really got was cap space. We traded two D-Men for one and prospects. Doesn't really seem like a good deal at this point.

[Geografer]

Right Another Joe - even though they told the fans they loved him and how much they planned on playing him and even though they told his agent Tuesday night they were not trading him - it is just a business decision.
It will also be "just a business decision" when they move the team even though they promised the fans they never would.
They have just proved that they are not trustworthy.

[bolts1]

like to see who the prospect is..next yr's draft is deep, and they took lukowich off our hands.Carle is young, had 40pts 2 seasons ago, and started to play well again in last years playoffs. Also , I think we still go after a D-man...maybe a Paul Mara type.

[Voice of the Turtle]

Geografer might be right. Perhaps these guys think that being devious is a smart idea, but trust erodes rapidly when businessmen are found to be dishonest.

Now OK cleared space, how long does it take before they blow it on someone else? It's going to be hard to replace Boyle but let's move forward. On to the next great debate!!

[bingo]

Ok, I was blocked because I did not post a nice point on the steal of the century. this is the cleaned up version.
Do you all recall the O'brien deal? This is just like it we give up quality and receive (edited) garbage in return. Another carle this is a family thingy..... Oren has a sweet spot for the Carle family.

The fact that you trade him is a (edited) really bad..... the fact you get nothing in return is a joke.... Fleeced again this deal has feaster all over it.....

All that has been done to improve the view from the seats has been undone with one deal. I understand the $$$$ issue but at least you could have gotten somehting that you need.
You give up two 'd' for another 23 year old wanna be and a couple of picks..... Mullet back to ESPN. Vinny forget the deal..... wait till the deadline they can deal you to someone who gives two (edited) poops ...... this is disgusting.

[jet]

Where's this e-mail we can send comment to our new owners? I'd like to let them know they just lost a ticket sale. Glad they tipped us off that they're liars early on, then it won't be a surprise when they make more bush league moves like this, or worse.

[Geografer]

So here is the defence has it stands now (sure makes me feel good) -
Filip Kuba
Mike Lundin
Shane O’Brien
Alexandre Picard
Paul Ranger
Matt Smaby

I am sure there is someone else they are tageting but all the top D in free agency are gone so unless they plan on pulling something big in a trade (and God I hope it doesn't involve St Louis) this isn't looking good.

[Voice of the Turtle]

Hey Bingo, I feel your pain!

[Geografer]

Oh wait - I forgot Carle - that makes it all better.

[karen]

Who's next? Vinny? Marty? Don't think these guys are feeling very comfortable right now.

geografer, nice copy and paste job from the other blog

[Don in St. Pete]

Don't everyone get their panties all up in a bunch over this. Boyle will be okay, though we'll miss him and he'll probably still live here during the off season. He's going to a great situation for him, playing next to Rivet or Rob Blake. This is something we couldn't give him here and he knows, I'm sure that it will make him a better player. I hope Carle is able to regain his form this year, or we won't have improved out team only added picks. The probably still have some moves in mind and I'll be paying close attention.

[jhkyref]

I wonder what Vinny L. thinks of this move?

[Ph.D. in Hockey]

It's Economics 101: As many happy memories he gave Lightning fans, it's also time to be realistic about Dan Boyle - he had reached the point of diminishing returns.

Between Boyle's age, hefty contract and the admittedly poor season he had last year (yeah, Dan, we'd all like second chances), freak injury notwithstanding, it's time for the Lightning, as these kids-in-a-candy-shop owners are proving, to look ahead to the future.

Will the Lightning win the Cup this year? No. Will they make the playoffs? There's no guarantee, but it would be nice.

Are they becoming better poised to make a serious run at the Cup a couple of seasons down the road? I'll say they are, even without Boyle.

Last season, even the most uneductaed Lightning fan realized how weak this team was in terms of depth. At least these new owners are trying to solve two problems in one fell swoop.

Patience, something that seems to be sorely lacking here in Hockey Bay, is needed in this situation. Painful? Yes. Necessary? Yes.

Sorry.

[Not into fantasy hockey]

The Lightning can kiss my season ticket money goodbye. I'll never believe another word out of the new ownerships collective mouths.

[bingo]

Oren - I hear Kansas City..... Vegas, yes you hate vegas just like you Luv Danny..... thanks I'll save my money.... Understand everything you did is now undone. The trades, free agents, "WE will be SHOCKINGLY AGGRESSIVE" blah blah blah. You were aggressive for sure but the TRUST, HOPE and good vibes that you generated in the first week have absolutely no value.
Let me help pack the bags to vegas for u.

Good Luck in the failing business. Move on to the slots.....

[colt]

This another great move and Vinny loves it. He loves Melrose as do all the players. They are glad that TORTS is gone and so should all you naysayers.. This is an exciting time.. did some of you goobers forget that TORTS took this team to the GUTTER last year.

Great Moves.. division CHAMPS coming Up

THE RAYS, THE BUCS and Now THE LIGHTNING!!

Get used to it GOOBERS!!

[Not O. K.]

Hey Oren: Further major payroll cuts can be achieved by disposing of Lecavalier and St. Louis for draft choices before moving the remaining collection of players to Kansas City or Las Vegas.

Oh yeh, we will really believe you when you say you won't.

[ajax]

I loved when we dumped the Richie contract, I thought it was a super move for the club. I love Boyle way more as a player than Richie but again, his contract was too much and to long. Soooo, for our club, and that is squarely where my loyality and my hockey brains are situated, I am not that saddened by the move. That said it is still the million dollar question on where does payroll settle this year??
OBVIOUSLY we can't go into the season with the D we have as of this morning. I might not know much, but no one could be comfortable going with that motley crew.
So within a week our roster has taken giant steps forward and the blog was the happiest I have ever seen it. Reality set in the last few days. What a shame.
Defense wins hockey, like pitching wins baseball. Our defense this morning doesn't need a player or two to make a run at the cup, it needs about 3.
Hooray for Hollywood.

[TJ]

ESPN's version of the trade, which is a rehash of the earlier TSN story:

http://sports.espn.go.com/nhl/news/story?id=3473536

[Pete]

This is a great trade - for the SHARKS!!!

This is a salary dump of a salry that OK did, after dumping Richards to allegedly sign and KEEP Boyle.

How will this improve us?

[Nick]

I hope Danny B goes to San Jose and wins the norris trophy.

Good luck to him, they may have signed him to too big of a contract but that's not his fault.

This is a real classless move by the new ownership, and now I really can't trust what they say.

[winnie]

This is ridiculous - OK just made me sick. How dumb, we could have gotten so much more in February. These guys %%&#%&# stink.

We are in for a long decietful ride, well until the team goes to KC

[Chris]

Just wanted to let everyone know the prospect i Ty Wishart, San Jose's top defensive prospect. Here is the analysis of his talent via hockey futures. http://www.hockeysfuture.com/prospects/ty_wishart

OK Hockey, you are a bunch of liers and the truth is not in you. I dont think anyone will believe what you say. I understand business moves, but i dont understand dishonesty and misleading fans.

[Tampa Wineguy]

Dan, you will be missed in Tampa Bay. At least ownership in San Jose believes in you and wants you to play there.

[Chris]

Also ek's note on the Tampa Bay deal, "Ek's Note: Wow on Tampa's part as well. That is a hell of a return for a player with that salary. Carle was amazing last year, Wishart is an incredible prospect...AND a #1! The Lightning are back in HUGE way now."

[Voice of the Turtle]

Ajax speaks with his characteristic wisdom. Part of the euphoria expressed in recent blogs reflected both the pleasure of seeing some talented players being brought into the Lightning mix AND the assurance that Danny Boyle would be the prime mover of the Lightning blueliners.

As Ajax implies, teams do rise and fall on the strength of their defense in this league. As a group, the Bolts' Dmen are undernumbered and wanting in terms of talent. Matt Carle has certainly not made his mark as a two-way player. In fact, after last season, even his offensive prowess remains in question.

Worst of all is one's sense of distrust in the ownership group stemming from their recent acts of deception where Danny Boyle is involved. Players, agents, fans, GMs, and other owners do not like or feel comfortable dealing with wise guys.

[Don in St. Pete]

I really like the makeup of this trade if it includes Wishart. I figured we'd get a forward prospect but this guy could be a backline bruiser in a year or two. I think this is a great move by OK hockey, though i will miss Boyle.

[Goalman]

Just a minute,I have to pick this crow from between my teeth. After I thought I made an inciteful observation(SJ signed Blake,therefore no Boyle signing),I was shown to know not of what I speak. Anyway,really sorry to see Dan go. I thought he was terrific for us. I can only hope that we are getting fair value in our transaction, It sounds like we are.The emotional attachment we have to our players only shows the passion of our great fans.I'm disappointed, but will be in my season seat when the first puck is dropped.Good luck to Dan and good luck to us.

[Goalman]

Just a minute,I have to pick this crow from between my teeth. After I thought I made an inciteful observation(SJ signed Blake,therefore no Boyle signing),I was shown to know not of what I speak. Anyway,really sorry to see Dan go. I thought he was terrific for us. I can only hope that we are getting fair value in our transaction, It sounds like we are.The emotional attachment we have to our players only shows the passion of our great fans.I'm disappointed, but will be in my season seat when the first puck is dropped.Good luck to Dan and good luck to us.

[bolts1]

I agree with Don, if this is Carle, Wishart, a 1st and a 4th..this is a really good deal for the Bolts.We fleeced SJ....

[Don in St. Pete]

Turtle et al, Now you guys are being Hypocrites. It's okay to buy out Denis and set him adrift but Boyle is human and denis is not? This stuff happens every year in the NHL and you'd have rather we got nothing back in return for Boyle then sign him and then trade him? They COULDN'T deal him at the trade deadline, there were no takers, which is why Ritchy was moved. get over it, it's a business and it sucks for the fans, but we don't have to pay the bills and market the team. I understand loyalty to a player, but this is a business and it happens every day in business. When a company is downsizing, who are the first ones to be bought out? Those with the highest salaries in regards to their rate of return. Get used to it. There will probably be more, likely Kuba and Ward and maybe Jokinen. But I believe that in the end, the TEAM will be better for it.

[Geografer]

Just wondering about Carle - we all know we took his brother who can't play due to the heart condition - which is genetic. Are we 100% sure Matt has been throughly tested for this and is completely clean?? It would be awful if it turns out he also has this. I am sure he may have been tested in the past but you gotta wonder if he shouldn't be tested again now - I'm sure the technology is even better now for this then it was a few years ago.

DC, have we gotten fair value for our top D-man. What is your opinion.

[Tom]

Feel compelled to counter the whiners. Personally, as a season ticket holder from day 1, I'm excited about the changes. This team was steadily going down the drain the past 2 years. It was time for new owners, management, and coach. Losing Boyle won't hurt the defense (certainly not $6 million worth), and the offense won't need him as much. We had to get rid of some salary. Anyway, I'm liking the new Lightning a lot, and I can't wait to see how it all works out next season.

[Bobby]

Yeah, if Wishart is involved along with Carle AND a #1 & #4... plus we lose that dead weight/salary in Lukowich (sorry, but last year he was just painful to watch), I am ecstatic!

While I wholeheartedly appreciate everything Danny has given to this organization - and make no mistake about it, he was definitely a main cog in the turnaround and Cup win - I have always felt as though he was a bit overrated (sorry). It's tough to say goodbye to players you have loved and grown attached to, but this is business and this return sets us up (potentially) for years to come.

I wish Danny and his family all the best. That said I can't wait to see all these new guys in the black & blue! When does training camp start?!

[Voice of the Turtle]

Don in St. Pete:

It is rather a case of Danny Boyle being a world class talent while Marc Denis has been a failure.

Further, it might be useful to you and mature of you to remember that people who do not agree with you are not necessarily hypocrites.

Remember that and you'll find that people will finally start regarding you as a mature individual.

[Geografer]

Don - I don't think you get what our issue is. There was never any deception involved with Denis - he knew where he stood and that this was probably coming. Danny was told they wanted him, he took a discount on a contract OK signed off on, just Tuesday night his agent was told they weren't trading him and then they do. They tell the fans they love him, they say they aren't looking at free agent d-men because they feel they have one of the best, they tell us they are going to play him 25 minutes a game and then they trade him. That is the issue. They flat out lied to Danny and to the fans. You can't believe anything they say at this point and if you don't think that will have reprecussions in the dressing room you are wrong.

The funny part of this is that they are "owners to unite us." They are doing a heck of a job in uniting a good many of the fans - it is just against them!

[Hockey Chic]

I have a question does everyone on here believe what they read in the papers or see on TV as well?

The fact that Oren and Barrie said they were not going to trade DFB and they did, does not make them liars. This is a business people and trading players is a part of that business process.

It is like playing poker when you bluff you just do it and you do not show all your cards until the end.

Danny more than anyone had to know that just cause Torts and Feaster signed him to a contrast did not mean he was here long term. For God sakes look at Richie.

Anyone and I mean anyone with business sense knows that things change. The owners may have very well intended to keep DFB and then as time progressed and the team took shape they realized they needed to make cap room.

I hate it for DFB and his family in that he did not get a chance to show us that he is healed and ready to go.
I wish them all the luck and success in the world.

But I am keeping my tickets people. If the trades in this team make you give up your tickets, just like the adding a new coach and management don't let the door hit you on the way out. There are going to be bumps in the road people. We are rebuilding with the few core players we have left from the cup team.

Again, good luck to DFB and I wish him much success in San Jose.

Go Bolts!!

[Remember]

And then their were two.

I did not like the idea of trading boyle. But if they include the prospect Wishart. This move could really pay off. I know we were bad last year but a +- of -27 thats pretty bad for an "allstar" defenseman. Also a first round pick. Now We could use a veteran defesneman such as a Keith Carney, Paul Mara? Any other good veterans out their.

[Don in St. Pete]

Geo, Good point! Carle would have to pass a physical before the trade is completely consummated, as will Boyle. I have to imagine after his brother found out about his condition ( which is genetic ) that he immediately got himself checked out or than the Sharks insisted he get checked. I'm sure we'll see what the Wishart kid has at camp but you got to feel good with the defensive prospects we have. I hope Carle can rebound for help NOW, and that we can parlay the picks into some good talent for the pipeline.

[Tallahassee Mike]

To Danny Boyle, it's certainly sad to see you go, wish you the best in SJ, a team with a real chance at the cup next year. Get your second one DB!

Having said that, I agree with Tom and Bobby--Boyle's contract was too big and with the offensive improvements we don't need it anymore. Yeah, he quarterbacked the powerplay the last two years, but you forget that since the lockout, no one other than Marty, Vinny, and Prospal were able to score. Now with Malone, Vbrata, Stamkos, and the hopeful improvement of Oulette and Jokinen, we have potentially 8 20 goal men (Oulette and Jussi were close last year and you can figure Stamkos to have at least moderate success). I was kind of hoping we'd get Ehrhoff, I really like him, but if Carle can bounce back then our defense might be solid.

I've said it before but I'll repeat it now--a bad defense under Tortorella might be a fantastic defense under Melrose. Not every defender can shine when he's constantly having to cover odd-man rushes, but in a more defensive style... Just remember Kuba was an all-star in defensive Minnesota, and I think a return to that form is entirely possible.

Interetsing to predict what our pairings will be though...Does Carle take Boyle's slot with Ranger? Do you continue Picard with Kuba as they did at the end of last year? Where does new kid from the Flyers fit it, as does O'Brien still have a shot?

[Andrew]

I hope that the reports that it's goign to be Carle are false...The last thing we need is ANOTHER young d-man...Especially when we're giving up two veterans.

[ajax]

I don't read anywhere that Wishart is part of the deal. Boyle and Luk for Carle, a 1st and 4th. Silly me, all I wanted was "players" and no draft picks, and of course that is exactly the opposite of what they did.
I remember a statement from Hollywood last week, 'we want to win now'
I fail to see (yet) how this makes us a stronger team this year.
Can I wake up in 8 weeks and someone promise me that Mike Lundin will not be on our roster again this year. That is one of my bell weathers. If Mike Lundin is playing 15 minutes a night we have been hustled (again)
I renewed my tickets Wednesday, I was so wishy washy. I was such a puppy dog with all the good news. Remember my wet shorts I was so excited. I so wanted to believe and now, happy fricking July 4th Lightning fans. BAM, that was reality hitting this idiot in the head!!!
I still have the same scream from past November's.
We need real honest to goodness NHL defenseman!!!!!!!!!!!!!
On a side note, getting rid of Lukowich was a savvy move Hollywood.
Now work on packaging another asset with Kuba, that is the only way to get rid of Kuba.

[Tallahassee Mike]

I'd love to get Paul Mara to solidify the D. Is that an option? He was once a Lightning first rounder!

[Don in St. Pete]

Here is the announcement on Jon Jordan's blog at hockeybuzz.com.

http://www.hockeybuzz.com/blog.php?post_id=16093

Mara would cost too much, though Carney should be more reasonable and could be that veteran stay at home guy we need.

[bingo]

Tom and others. I've been a holder of tickets for many years although not since the beginning. However, with that said being a holder of tickets makes your points no less nor of better quality to those who can only attend 5 - 10 games a year.
I understand the $$$$$ stuff, but they just dumped arguably two of the top three defenders from the team and in return we receive prospects. If in 3 - 4 years they plan out that's great however, we have needs NOW on the "D" side of the table.

You tell me, and leo please chime in.
Who of the defenders are in the Top.

Kuba, Ranger, Lundin, Smaby O'brien, Picard, Carle it must be Janik that's it. It must be the 23 year old.... Carle sweet OREN just luv's the boy.

There is no 'D' so we can watch 9 - 7 games and lose over and over in the 3rd? The trade makes sense from the $$$ side but it leaves the cupbard bare, EMPTY call it what you may.

Also, I agree it is a business..... but they spoke of Honesty, Truth..... blah blah blah..... there is no reason to believe that they will keep their word on ANYTHING and that would include ticket deals. Vincent you are next to be expunged from the team.....

Remember and I do have the vcr tapes of Chunky Mel ragging on Marty, Boyle, Vinny and Richards during the playoffs..... He picked the Islanders, Montreal, Philly and Calgary to beat us..... pre-game shows. So I am suppose to believe anything from their mouths. Think not. you can have my 6 tickets.

[WIZ]

Losing Boyle certainly tempers the Tampa signings.
and anyone who thinks carle is close to the defenseman Boyle was ...well, you are delusional like you are about Vrbata.

[Chris]

Hockeybuzz is reporting Wishart is part of the deal. http://www.hockeybuzz.com/blog.php?post_id=16094

As much as I hate to see Dan Boyle go, getting Carle, Wishart, AND a 1st and 4th looks like a pretty good return to me.

[Voice of the Turtle]

"The team that gets the best player in a trade is the winner!"

-Barry Melrose, ESPN

Bingo,could you send a copy of that tape to the Big Dog on 620 he says he has the transcripts of all of Melroses comments concerning the lightning, and says that he cant find anything negative.

[WIZ]

You are absolutely correct this kid is the real deal. Big, mean and a shot. There were other etams looking to move into the slot SJ tarded into pick him last year. He did nothing over the course of this last season to show it was a mistake. he is Bigger, meanier, tougher, and progressing quickly.
We can only dream Petrecki is part of the deal!

[ant]

you guys are on acid if you dont like this trade! It is an amazing trade for the bolts. Carle is good. real good. and in a few years will be as good or not better than boyle. he scored 40pts his rookie year with that crap offense. imagine what he can do with vinny, marty, stamkos, prospal, vrbata, malone, etc...

And Wishart is a great prospect to throw in the deal. and on top of that we get a 1st and the 4th we wasted on rolson. Not to mention we shave close to 5mil in cap space.

Cmon you guys this trade is amazing for us.

On top of all this, the bolts arent done. I expect a move for Jason Smith or someone of that calibur, or maybe (fingers crossed) they use their cap space and the pieces they aquired from San Jose and make an offer for Bouwmeester.

[bingo]

Ajax, just saw your post I almost bit on Wed myself...... My agent called me a couple of times wanted me to drop the dime on 6 ticks...... I'm lucky I had a meeting and by the time I got back it was too late and he was not going to be back until Next wed or so..... Whew lucky me.
Also, I agree we have no "D", nada, nothing...... but we do have the Mullet.

[Oneal]

Thanks guys!

Oneal
(MD Caps fan)

[jimmy]

ok, so the best feaster can do is get a super young defender and draft picks for the best puck moving defender.. thats a good one! maybe hed be able to get a whole dozen dohnuts for lecavalier

[Don in St. Pete]

Bingo, If they're good seats, I'll take them in a heartbeat. Trust me people there are more moves to come. They were after Rob Blake until the Sharks offered him $5mil per last night. Ok and gang are not done it we will be a better team by Camp. I too would like to see them move Kuba somehow and the Sens could be a target. Stayed tuned folks and stop all the doom and gloom. This is a process and it's only in the exciting early stages. Now the grunt work is beginning and I have a feeling that there will be some other positive moves to be made that will NOT include anymore members of the core group. Don't throw the owners and coach under the bus before the horn sounds. If our d still looks like this when we open camp, I'll be screaming louder than any of you. It will get better, think positive.

[Bobby]

We get it WIZ, you don't like Vrbata. Give it a rest.

Overall, I'm just amazed at all the whining going on here. Quit thinking with your hearts and start thinking with your heads.

This is a GREAT TRADE for TB (again, if it does indeed involve a return of Carle, Wishart, a 1st and 4th) and all of you cry babies (oh, I can't trust them, I'm not gonna buy tickets now, waaaaaah waaaah waaaah) will eat crow sooner rather than later.

I'll see you at the Forum! GO BOLTS!!

[Geografer]

So let's compare for those who think Carle is an instant improvement -

07-08
Boyle - 37 gp - 4 goals - 21 assists
Lukowich - 59 gp - 1 goal - 6 assists
Carle - 62 gp - 2 goals - 11 assists

hhmmmmm - this improves the D how? We are giving up 32 points (in fewer games) for 13? Yeah he was only a -8 but he was also on a team with better offense, defense and goaltending.

Look - Wishart will be a good d-man - I saw him play his 3 years with Prince George - but the key of this is will be. If we want to win now (and with the contracts we've seen them signing that seems to be the goal - the whole just like Philly from last to playoffs) I don't see how that helps.

hey bobby what are you going to say if they move the team? do you trust them

[Bobby]

They are not going to move the team and the sky is not falling.

[Chris]

07-08
Boyle-37 gp - Plus/Minus -27

Speaks for itself

Why, because they said so

[Tony]

This is what V4 has to look forward too when and if he ever signs that extention...I would think that any moves the Lightning make from here on out would be to improve the defense..

[Geografer]

Right Chris
but in 06-07 (when he wasn't hurt and played all 82 games) he was only -5 while also getting 20 goals and 43 assists. Do you really think there was a single game this season when he was anywhere close to 100%? You can't condemn him for last season. It was such a fluke.

[Bob]

First good luck to Dan & Luke, you will be missed.

The way I see this deal is we gave up our guys for a bag a pucks.

I sleep better tonight knowing we have Kuba on D and Roberts will play in about 20 games.

My agent hasn't called me about tickets, but I am waiting.......

I think the ownship should change their name to SU (Screw U) Hockey. When they picked the Mullet for coach I knew things weren't gonna be right.

[Tony]

Your right Chris, for that limited of games to be a -27 is ridiculous.

[Casper]

I too, would be okay with the 'prospect' being Nick Petrecki or Ty Wishart. Them are some big kids.

While I'm not stroking myself over a Microsoft Excel program with our salary cap/roster, I can see the value and wisdom in dealing with, for example, San Jose.

The Sharks, as mentioned, are getting a car with 32,000 miles on him. But Tortorella disconnected the odometer and Danny might not be on skates for his 37th or 38th birthday.

Five years from now, that prospect and #1 pick we get, might be valued horses for us. Right now though, we have too many other issues to deal with besides sniveling over Boyle.

Boyle represents the Tortorella system and with the current cast, we need to move past that in one quick hurry. The new Bolts must gel and find new chemistry.
I hope they are set together to meld and grow comfortable with new linemates.

When they come to camp and see the remnants of the worst team in the league, it will be incredulous, seeing #4, 26. But Boyle's defensive lapses will be gone and a new defensive responsibility will be born.

We'll be fine, only different. No other Cup winner since '04 looks like we did, and when we bang on the door again, it will be with a new identity.

Go Bolts!

[LightningRod]

Unfortunately, this deal makes the most sense for OK and and the current team, given the cap situation. Teams have to have cap room at the trade deadline; and I think everyone agrees that there were still some holes to plug on this team. Also, Stamkos's contract had to factored in. So, something had to give. As I see it, it came down to opening space with shedding 1 player Boyle at $6.67M or doing it with at least 2 and up to 4 other players. I believe the rumor that they were shopping Smith was true; and that didn't work. From what I can tell, the Boyle trade rumors started shortly after that.

One thing is apparent to me, OK doesn't care about secrecy, as almost all of their deals are quickly and accurately reported by TSN, etc., before they are done. I have a hutch that what they were trying with Smith didn't work, as it came public to quickly. Could it be Melrose's media connections? Hope not.

When Boyle's trade rumor started, I believed it; and was PXX'ed. I, like a lot of people, got caught-up in the fantasy that OK could fix the Lightning in one fell swoop; and they kept feeding that fantasy, by doing almost everything that they said they would do. Well this rumor made me take the rose colored glasses off, and look at the reality of the situation. That reality was that OK had to start making some hard and probably unpopular choices; and I believe the Smith rumor was the start of those choices being made. OK has made drastic and positive changes in a last place team; but, for a while, I forgot that reality had to set in sometime, so here we are. I believed they really planned on keeping Boyle, up to late in the day on 7/1 or early on 7/2. Their rose colored glasses had to come off to; and Boyle's trade put an end to the fantasy ride that OK had me on.

I know OK basically promised to keep Boyle, and they were behind his signing at the trade deadline. However, at that time they didn't know they would end up with the #1 draft pick; and who they would get and how much they would pay in return on July 1.

At this point, I am not going to pass judgment on Boyle's trade. I don't like it; but I am willing to see what OK does after this. In my opinion, OK has changed the Lightning into a good up and coming team in a unbelievably short period of time. A team that finished in last place, with an ownership that didn't care and a coach that had lost the locker room. You bet, I am willing to wait; and I can't wait for October to get here.

[Tony]

Of course the whole team pretty much stunk last year defensively..

[Bobby]

Are you two-years-old? These are savvy businessmen. They’ll also make good use of the money generated from developing the land adjacent to the Forum. They’ll make the numbers work. They know what they’re doing. They’re multi-millionaires. We’re sitting in our underwear typing on a blog. I repeat, they are not moving the team and the sky is not falling. Take a xanax, sit back and enjoy this ride. GREAT TRADE! GO BOLTS!!

[Rob]

Let me try to understand this. OK is part of a group who attempts to buy the Lightning. He stabs his partners in the back and manages to buy the team himself with Davidson's owner-financing.

Before OK even owns the team, he orchestrates the trade of Brad Richards for Mike Smith and a bag of pucks SPECIFICALLY to be able to sign Dan Boyle to a long term deal.

Free agency comes and OK spends like a drunken sailor on shore leave to sign almost anything that can stand up on two skates. Barry then lies to the face of every season ticket holder when he promises they did not target a puck moving defenseman because he has "one of the best in the game".

The joke's on us because he was apparently talking about Shane O'Brien because of the GREAT season he had (please note sarcasm) in the 70 games Barry Melrose watched.

The fans need to understand that this guy is playing "Rich Guy Nintendo" in putting his fantasy team together. OK, this is not a video game and you are trading the contract YOU approved. If the Glazers or Stu Sterberg did this, the press would run them out of town.

Lightning fans, please stay tuned for OK's next crappy movie,,,a reality show of sorts..."Saw V: The dismembering of the Tampa Bay Lightning."

[jared Calkins]

I really hate to see danny go, would have rather see kuba and luke go. with that being said we dont really need a puck moving D man we need a D man that can play D and even now with banny gone would still like to see kuba traded away for pick as well then sign a cheap D man that can play D

only a two year old would be so trusting, and who cares about the sky falling, it's the lightning that's falling. Rob,good points to think about

[Tallahassee Mike]

Sitting in our underwear? I dunno about you Bobby, but I put on a three piece suit before I blog. Gotta stay classy.

I too will wait to pass judgement on this trade. Let's see what else they do and what happens in training camp. We finished in last place with Boyle last year and had a worse record with him playing, so he wasn't the single-handed savior of the team by any means.

[WIZ]

(Boy, above I come of stupid as the quote from someone else didn't stick and my spelling was atrocious...)
Again:
Sundance quote from above:
any chance at all of Sharks '07 1st pick from BC being in the mix? Nick Petrecki at 6-3, 210 is a stud.

You are absolutely correct this kid is the real deal. Big, mean and a shot. There were other teams looking to move into the slot SJ traded into pick him last year. He did nothing over the course of this last season to show it was a mistake. He is Bigger, meanier, tougher, and progressing quickly.
We can only dream Petrecki is part of the deal!

[Bobby]

DC - Any "official" word yet on the trade and its components?

[Ted]

This is Ted's sister and I think you just pulled a move that a retard would do. Dan Boyle Is the CORE of the team and without him Lightning are pretty much NOTHING. It will be like watching the games when boyle was out with an injury.. RIDICULOUS! I cant wait to go to these lightning games and laugh my butt off when the boys are struggling back in D. I'd like to see Lightning prove me wrong and do good without Boyle. GO SHARKS (;

[Josh]

If we truly have to trade Boyle to San Jose, I suggest getting Carle, Ehroff and a first round pick. Especially if we're trading Lukowich as well. We have to fill both spots.

[Coach Z]

Ted's sister...really..the core? This just in...we had a better record with him out of the line up last year then in the line up....lol.

[CoachZ]

It's really sad to hear how many of you fair weather/man crush fans there are here. Stop cheering for the name on the back of the sweater and start cheering for the crest on the front!!! Players come and go...that's pro sports. Wayne Gretzky changed teams and the world did not end....get over it and go Bolts.

[Matt]

Great. Boyle is not only a great defensive/offensive combo player but also a great team player. We're trading him off with only so-so players left.

As for offense - can someone close to these yo-hos in charge get the word across that what we need is a new Modin, similar to Holmquist of the Red Wings, who will park in front of net and stay there no matter who much he's being beat. Having that position will allow for scoring opportunities - yet nobody stepped up since Modin left.

Does anyone know the people at the top? TELL THEM NOW! Got any idea why Holmquist is so valuable to his team? Cause they've found the guy who'll not budge. We need that position filled.

[Tallahassee Mike]

Not sure if you've noticed Matt, but Ryan Malone and Ryan Craig are both huge and basically specialize in parking in front of the net.

[mike]

I like the trade we get younger carle is 23 hes a good player he just was hurt last year but hes gonna turn out to be a great dman. And we get a 1st round pick and 4th and a good prospect

[TJ]

Uh, Matt, that's Holmstrom, as in Tomas Holmstrom, I think you are talking about....

[MG]

Are we or are we not getting Wishart in the package deal... I think that is the deal breaker.

[Chris]

I think you mean Holmstrom

[skp]

when you look at this from the perspective of "if we hadn't thrown money at dan boyle, he would've walked away for nothing", doesn't this look like a better deal...if he was never in their long-term plans, then instead of letting him find his own way in FA, they got carle, a 1st, 4th, and a prospect for FREE

[Coach Z]

And when he gets healthy Halpern is also not afraid to park it in front of the net.

[Don in St. Pete]

Casper, L-Rod and tally Mike, great post's guys! Our D was atrocious last year but for a fack we were 20-20-4 without Boyle and 11-22-6 with him. That wasn't all his fault mind you but it does prove the guys in the room had the intestinal fortitude to pick up their game. They'll do it again this year or they'll be replaced, plain and simple. these guys are not done and there is more help for the d on the way. Don't throw in the towell to soon, give `em a chance.

[Coach Z]

SKP...you just said something I'd not even thought about yet and is genius. Wow did we just fleece the Sharks. We have not paid DB one dime of the new deal since it does not take effect until this upcoming season...so...we essentially got a 1st, a 4th, a prospect, and a NHL D-man for free.....they may have never had Boyle in the long term plans but resigned him only to retain rights to a trade...Feaster may end up being a rolly polly evil genius when this is all done!!

[Isnt it]

Um...isn't it 4th of July?? Don't you people have better things to do?
Jeesh. Get a life.

[Coach Z]

Isn't it...but yet you're here....lol

[Ted]

Coach Z.. You dont seem to know anything do you? nope, didn't think so (:

[Jh Skyscrapercity]

The people who took over the team are giving every indication of being Daniel Snyder's Redskins type of idiots. Blow money on washed up free agents, give away core players in bad trades, and hire some washed up celebrity TV announcer to run your team?

The Lightning aren't a flippin movie production, where the more dramatic and over the top things are, the better, THEY ARE A HOCKEY TEAM!

[John]

I wish Dan and his family all of the best in San Jose. He will always be remembered fondly in Tampa Bay. I also wish that the current Lightning owners would begin to have a bit more integrity in their public statements. This "Godfather" philosophy of "It's just business!" is pretty trite. You are either true to your word or not. I need to be assurred that I can believe in someone that I am givig thousands of dollars to watch NHL hockey. I hope that Oren and Len can give us some type of explanation. An apology would be a good start to regain my trust ... and money. That's just good business!

[Coach Z]

I know some...lol...I know that this is a move that will for sure improve our team down the road and when you finish last that is you goal. You must look to improve and getting rid of bloated salary and adding picks is a good way to do that. We now have 2 first rounders next year and that is huge. Plus I really don't feel that this team is nearly done tinkering the line up for next year. I have faith so far in the moves and just don't hold that much stock that Dan Boyle was the cog that made us go. We were dead last with him so there's only room to go up. Same holds true for other players...the Great One was moved and you can't say he was not a better player than DB...lol. Sorry you have a 22 jersey in your closet that goes to waste now...but you'll find a new favorite player...in the meantime I still have my favorite TEAM.

[john deere]

here we go again the lighting and Jay feaster trading away some of our best player for fried chicken Jays gonna die of high colestoral BOOO lightning
san jose all the way!!! go boyle and the russian super league

[jlo]

As a "Day 1" season ticket holder I have to ask the regular bloggers here a question. Would you rather have?

1) The Japanese ownership: "Where's Tampa?".

2) A southern insurance agent: "What's a puck?" (Ok - "Vinny is the next Michael Jordan").

3) A northern businessman: "When do the Lightning play the Pistons?"

4) A couple guys with cash PASSIONATE about the team.

I'm pretty jazzed that we actually see changes happening - this franchise has been circling the drain for the last couple years, culminating in last season's debacle. A couple little tweaks weren't going to do it, and at least we are not spending the off season hearing Feaster tell us how there is no budget to improve the team.

Let's give these guys a chance. The performance on the ice will be the final judge.

That being said, I sure will miss Danny - unfortunately his last games in a Bolts uniform were abysmal.

We'll remember him for the Cup year instead.

[Kyle]

I said earlier I could go either way and time will tell. With the forwards brought in they won't need the point production from the defense, however, we still need puck possession in our end to get things started. Unless the plan is to have Smith pass to V4 at the far blue line (It worked with the Kings in NHLPA 93, which is the last time Melrose won a cup, albeit on my Sega Genesis).

There also has to be concerns about Boyle's +/- and possibility of diminishing returns. That being said Danny Boyle is a class act and I'm sure everyone here wishes him the best.

A quick look at the comments on TSN make this sound like the Lightning made the right trade.

[Bob]

SKP....Interesting point. Makes the deal taste a little better.

[David]

Unbelievabe.
Un-fricking-believabe.

No not the trade.

The absolute ridiculous histrionics in reaction to losing a -27 defenseman.

This storm the Ice Palace with torches and pitchforks reaction makes me think something significant had happened like the Montreal Canadiens shipping Maurice Richard to Toronto.

Grow up folks.

I'm not thrilled with the value we received in return, but I wasn't thrilled with what we got for Richards originally and then, before the Halpern injury, I changed my mind and realized we had raped Brett Hull. No reason this won't work out as well.

Addition by subtraction is non-intuitive but is real and is a wonderful thing.

[slapshot]

NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!:( :( :( :( :( :( :( :( :( :(

[Coach Z]

Kyle...I totally agree with you. The comment that is recurring on TSN the most is shock that people would touch 22 at that salary and length of contract. For sure we made a good move. It does suck to lose popular players (and Danny is popular and was a key component in the Cup run but not since) but it's the dark side to sports and to get better sometimes it's needed. Time will tell but look at the Richards deal...was not popular at the time but I think time began to heal that one as well. Taking your heart out of the equation it was a good deal for us and I'm excited to see how the rest of the D shapes up because I have to believe that the current D roster is NOT what we will go into the season with...if so...then we indeed will be hurting. But I as a season ticket holder since season one at the then Thunderdome (99 dollar Bolt pen seats..I miss those days!) I am stoked that we have owners willing to make big moves for a change.

[Coach Z]

Correction..that would be season 2 at Thunderdome....I as still in HS for Season 1 at the barn

[Don in St. Pete]

Look at it from the owners perspective. You've got a bunch of career minor leaguers, some guys with grit that can't score, an injure center and 3 core guys. Some times you have to move a core guy to fill 2 holes and I think in the end that's what we'll have done here because we'll pick up enough caps space that with a couple more small moves we can sign that veteran defenseman and have cap room. I love Danny Boyle but this is kind of like the Herschel Walker trade Dallas made with Minny years ago that set them up for a number of super bowls. Did all you buc fans refuse to ever go to another game when they fired Dungy and they traded 3 first round picks for Gruden? We're a much better team than we were a month ago, and for that I'm thankful. Go OK! Go Bolts!

[Shane]

Thank you jlo and david, for trying to introduce some sense into this thread. I grew up in Tampa and now live on the west coast, and still love my lightning. I can tell you that it's the fairweather, bandwagon fans that were in love with the new owners yesterday and hate them today that are the reason why NO ONE in the sports world around the country takes the Tampa Bay area teams and their fans seriously.

And I will put all the money in my bank account on Carle having more points AND playing better defensively next year than Boyle will. And think of 4 years from now, when boyle is making 6.7 million and is 36 years old....

Grow up you whiners and either support your team or buy a Panthers jersey.

[Voice of the Turtle]

Hi David:

You use hyperbole like the term "histrionics" and the act of "storming the Ice Palace with torches and pitchforks" to describe the reactions of those who are displeased with the prospective trade. Having set up your straw men, you then accuse them of needing to "grow up."

Gee, thanks for the constructive criticism that comes from your highly considered analysis of the people with whom you disagree, David, but don't you think you sound a trifle delusional.

[bingo]

Coach Z - that was a great place for hockey.... Ferris wheel, fishing out the back door. Opening night Kontos and the Chicago..... what a game. Great memories that have long since been replaced with the Cup in 04 and the feaster belly in 08.

Now the deal is being stated that Ty Wisehart not part of the package.

So we can stop the drooling over the 20 year ole phenom.

I think it was section 201 watching Selivanov scoring the winner in OT against philly.... the sound of the scream leaving the game is one to remember.
Andy hoisting the cup in 04 was special, Mullet head hanging his hat in disbelief that Bolts won the cup..... and it would receive the tan of it's life.
There is huge history for the franchise my angst is that truth tells much about a person or organization. To sell the assest not a good feeling to receive NOTHING in return that is the joke. Each of us know the biggest need was 'D' and they filled up with forwards and then traded 2 'd' for another 20+ year old..... The rubber is not on the road, the tire has been kicked there is no air we are waiting for Mullet act #13 we sign Vinny and ship him out to the Phanters for 3rd line 'd' a couple 19year old prospects and another #1 draft pick. Perfect.

There is a reason that the wings are who they are - They treat the players and the fans with respect and consideration. No shooting from the hip like an OK Corral shootout..... This is a snyder deal on steroids. let's hope the results are better than they have in Washington!

[bear]

The PP and shootouts have carried this team to what limited success they have enjoyed.
Who replace Boyles PP points and Ritchies points?? Just askin.

[bear]

Bingo Bingo..Schneider on steroids ..perfect.

shane, shut your trap and buy a sharks, kings or ducks jersey.

[David]

VOTT

It is not a straw man argument to describe the reaction as histrionics.. People are reacting like their puppy just got run over purposely by OK and Melrose in their limo.

I stand by my evaluation. When people are dumping their season tickets and using this trade to say we are going to move, the owners can't be trusted, I'd say that's histrionics.

Thanks for your thanks of my well reasoned criticism.

[Bobby]

Throw us a bone, DC. Is Wishart in or out? This is what will make the deal or not for me.

[Jake]

Our defense was so solid last year without Boyle; I don't blame them for this trade. Boyle is good but our defense will be much better without him and the front office knows that defense wasn't a major problem last year...Next they are going to deal Mike Smith, so we will be set.

*sarcasm off*

[bi ngo]

Bobby, Wishart is not mentioned as part of the deal.

TSN Statement "In return for the 31-year old veteran defenseman, it is believed Tampa will receive a package that will include 23-year old defenseman Matt Carle, a first round draft pick, a prospect and a 4th round pick."

SPORTSNET.CA "A source says the transaction isn't quite done but that the two teams are close to a deal that would send Boyle and another player to the Sharks for a package that would likely include young blue-liner Matt Carle and fist-round and fourth-round draft picks."

HOCKEYBUZZ.COM "Dan Boyle and Brad Lukowich to San Jose for Matt Carle, Ty Wishart, a 1st and a 4th" THIS is the only place i see the mention of Wishart.

Go figure I'm sure will get the truth soon.

[TS-SS]

This team is as good as gone... I hear Las Vegas, Kansas City, and Winnipeg licking their chops because one of them is getting an NHL team in the next few years.

[Voice of the Turtle]

Okay David:

You are now opt to describe those who disagree with your exalted agruments by using the latest droll metaphorical phrase, "People are reacting like their puppy just got run over purposely by OK and Melrose in their limo."

Clearly, there is no hope for you. But please allow me to forewarn you that one who handles dissent in such a manner as yours should never get married (at least to a woman of spirit or one who is capable of any level of critical thinking). All the same, I admire your colorful analogies as the product of a creative, yet somewhat troubled, mind.

[jlo]

OK - I'll bite. There are several posts here equating the trade of Dan Boyle to absolute truth this team is moving.

Do you really believe this? Or are you just pi$$ed to lose Danny? Because I don't see any reasoning that gets me from point A - we moved an older, expensive defenseman to build for the future - to point B - we are doomed to lose our team.

Does everyone forget that Lightning ownership also owns the building? Doesn’t mean someone couldn’t lure them away, but really, there are other NHL teams in a much weaker position.

Truthfully, I was a bit depressed that we would be seeing more of the same with this franchise next year. At least now there will be something different happening. We have nowhere to go but up.

[Bobby]

Amen, jlo!

[Woodster]

WOW... Seem to be cutting all ties with the Cup team. First Richards and now both Boyle & Luke. I wonder how well Marty can sleep these days. Vinnie can't possibly believe everything he's being promised and why hasn't his contract been done? Three down & 2 to go. Defense takes the longest to learn at this level, that means the experience is with Kuba.......

I wonder how long Andy will be around and funny, haven't heard from Feaster since the draft. Maybe he's back in PA looking for a house.

A LA buddy is hired as the coach and ownership says the team is never moving, can we really believe that?

For me at least,it is not a matter of are they going to move the team, that i dont believe. It is more the misleading statements attributed to the handling of Dan Boyle. Can we believe what they say anymore?.Have they lost credibility? We need to look to the future for the answers.

[Voice of the Turtle]

jlo (Jennifer Lopez, perhaps)

Hypothetically speaking, suppose your husband, while ackowledging the value of being thrifty, asked for a copy of your credit card for emergency purposes, then spent up the card's absolute limit on new clothes for himself. Later on, when offering to show your visiting business associate around town, you find that he only showed her the Silver Squirrel Motel. Would you then be surprised if he promised, when borrowing your car, not to leave town but drove to Las Vegas?

You see, jlo, it boils (or Boyles) down to a question of credibility where the new owners are concerned.

[Lisa]

I certainly do not like where this team is headed. I am happy to not have renewed my season tickets. Thanks Dan for all you have done for Tampa Bay. We will miss you!! Best of Luck!!

[lightningbob]

This is a brilliant move by the Lightning, sure hope it comes true. I was wishing this happened last year at the trade deadline. While Dan is a good guy and fluid puck mover, opposing players skate around him all the time, he gives up the puck far too much for my liking. This year I won’t have to watch Marty or Vinny, have to cover Boyle’s spot on the ice because he is down behind the net. Marty spent a lot of time covering Boyle’s position when they were both on the ice. I’d much rather have Marty down low than Boyle. I have never understood the love affair with Dan Boyle, great guy in the locker and off the ice but many holes in his on ice game. Don't understand why they give him that type of money.

[Wow]

VOTT...wow you are a blow hard with your holier than thou false sense of intelligence. Laughable at best how you try to come across as "educated" but end up sounding like a condescending no nothing. However I do like your VOTT reference if it's in tribute to the Dark Tower...if it's not then it should be. But back on point, do you really expect ownership to say "yes we plan on trading Boyle" when they are asked the questions? hey did not go to the media saying this, they were asked about it and replied how they did. In that position of course they will deny so that they can remain in a position of power trying to trade him and not clue in the league that he's available and thus lowering potential value we'd receive in return. Teams do it all the time. It does not mean that everything out of their mouth is a lie and nor does it mean it's not. Simply it appears they lied to make the trade a bit more to our advantage as opposed to 29 other teams knowing we wanted to move him and were then able to set a lower price.

[jlo]

Sorry:

a) I'm not JLo and have a wife, not a husband (although she thinks I have a *LOT* of junk in the trunk!);

b) You set up a straw man and argued against yourself, pretty much ignoring my post.

I get it the "credibility" argument if, by that, you mean:

a) Ownership/coach indicated last week they thought Boyle was part of the future; and

b) This week decided a trade was a better situation for the club.

I ask you - should they have devalued him last week by letting the league know he wasn't part of their plans?

Also, how does it follow logically that they will move the team?

These guys are professional athletes - I feel bad he was traded (and will always value the personalized autographed picture with Dan and the Cup– thanks Dan) but - sheesh - he IS getting paid 6.6 million over 6 years thanks to the Lightning. That’s 36 million if you are keeping score at home. He can keep the beach house on the bay.

[Don in St. Pete]

Danny, I wish you and your family well. You will be missed as a great player and man in Tampa Bay. You're trade makes San Jose one of the favorites in the west and I look forward to seeing you in the Stanley Cup finals against the Tampa Bay Lightning. To all the doubters, and supposed fans, I hope some of you has nice closeup tickets because I am looking to upgrade and am optimistic with the direction this team is going. Thanks and good riddance to the supposed fans who won't support their team. We don't need you anyway. there will plenty of other fans willing to pick up your tickets when they see the fast, exciting new Lightning team hit the ice.

[Voice of the Turtle]

There was a fairly obvious formula for the "Saw" movies. It involved some distatsefully banal themes, special effects, and lots of promotional hype, but no pricy acting talent.

These are some connected notions that Vinny, Marty, and their agents should be considering as today's business enfolds.

[léo]

Bingo,
Carle definitely the top.
And don't get me wrong,
This is a FANTASTIC trade for TB.
But it would've been better to do this trade at the trade-deadline in Feb. Same deal. But at the Feb deadline. To give Carle a running start with the team.
Right now,
Who's the General? Who's the Boss D-Man? Who's the "go-to guy"?
Still though,
How much defense does SJ need, jeez?! Blake,Boyle,Vlasic,Rivet,dang!
Awww, who am I kiddin'?
I mean Carle, a prospect, a 1st rounder and a what? a 4th too?
You can't say no to that. Fabulous robbery!
Boyle said he would waive for a deal that made sense for TB.
Even HE couldn't say no to that.
Dang!
How did you floridians pull that off???
...c'n you give Us tips?...
Yo.

[Bobby]

Erik Erlendsson at The Trib is reporting the deal does indeed include Matt Carle and Ty Wishart while the first-round pick is in the 2009 draft and the fourth-round pick is in the 2010 draft.

[Boltflasher]

Bye, Lisa, you're going to miss an exciting season with Stamkos and Vinny and a run at the division title....

[Raymond]

First, please discount anyone who states that Feaster had anything to do with this trade. Feaster's only job is to go down to the local Starbucks and pick up coffees for the new owners.

Second, please discount anyone who state that the owner's lied. They have never indicated that Boyle was in the future plans for this team. They tried to dump him last year. Feaster signed him to an overpriced contract and now that Feaster is no longer making the decisions, OK is correcting this mistake. No owner is ever going to tell you that they are looking to move someone. They are always going to deny it. If you really believe that this ownership should have announced last week that Boyle was on the block you need to return to the real world.

Finally, objectively, this deal was a steal for the Lightning. In return for Boyle and Luk they received a younger version of Boyle a future top 2 defenseman and a first and fourth round picks. It also freed up cap space to go after a Jason Smith who would be a much better mentor for our young, talented defensemen.

Four years from now, you will all have forgotten Boyle when these guys mature.

[Voice of the Turtle]

to jlo:

Sir:

I apologize for the gender misunderstanding, but please be advised that I have absolutely no interest in your wife's perception of your "trunk junk" (whatever the heck that is).

With regard to the so-called devaluation of Danny Boyle by announcing his availability, I say this:

1) There was no need to privately inform Boyle and his agent that he was going to be a part of this club when in fact he was not. If anything, noncommunication with them was more appropriate. And this is particularly relevant considering that Dan and his new wife were in the process of making plans and living arrangements in Tampa.

2) This ownership group had pretty much announced their intentions regarding selection of coaches, specific players they were targeting from UFA, and other moves (like their posture with regard to trades and signings). Why would this matter be different, and wouldn't the idea of Boyle's availability stir up some juicy competitive offers from around the league if it were known in advance?

So how does this gibe with their dealings with Boyle and how does it reflect some kind of strategical advantage in moving him?

Most likely, they held their plans back because they wanted to spur ticket sales with the new signings, and feared that the announcement about dropping Boyle would damage their marketing efforts.

If you have information (or even a viable theory) that proffers a different explanation for all of this, I'd be delighted to know about it.

[Bobby]

Jason Smith is supposedly close to signing with Buffalo, but you're right Raymond, he'd be a nice vet to bring in once all of this becomes official.

[Berliner]

It's 4th of July, Im very surprised the amount of angst going on right now. Have a beer or a glass of wine (although by listening to some of your arguments, you're probably not old enough to drink. or smoke. or drive).

I am usually one for playing Devils Advocate and seeing all the different sides to things, and this is no exception. Danny was a good guy OFF the ice and he worked hard on it. I dont think he was all that great, nor do I think he was worth the money, but that has nothing to do with his character, which I believe is superb. He was great during the 04 run and I think in the right system with a good stay-at-home defenseman behind him, he will be very productive.

Having said that, he is going to make over $35 million in the next few years. I think he can handle making some new friends and he can find a decent place to live. He will be okay.

How many more times are the same posters going to tell me that they are giving up their seats? I get it, you're not happy with the trade. Funny thing, the NHL wouldnt allow us to put a team on the ice with our budget. I just dont know how someone's character gets brought into this shiz all the time. Oren signed off on the deal to keep Danny here. Ok, Ill give you that. He was behind the push to oust Richards also. Ok, Im with you there too. But its not like Oren came out and said THESE are the guys we are definitely keeping on the team. He was asked about Boyle and he said that he had no intentions of moving him. I dont care if that is a lie or not. Im not even expecting a true answer when that question is asked. Answering yes, even if it was true, would have been terrible for the team and for Boyle. Please be realistic about his options for answering this.

As far as the trade goes, I like it. A few people agree, a few people dont. Just remember, the trade deadline wasnt today, it's just a Friday. We probably arent done with our lineup yet, there is still room to improve the Defense by trade. If there is no trade, then damnit, a COACH will actually have to COACH and make the stellar talent that we have in our young guys come through. We have the talent here, no matter what some of these guys did under Torts' style. It just needs to work as part of a system with the offense.

I know we are going to make the playoffs this year and I really believe we are going to be VERY entertaining, which is why I spend my hard earned money on this team.

If you disagree, great. That is what these blogs are for, but dont tell me you're going to root for the Sharks over the Lightning. That's about as lame as buying a Stars jersey with B-rad on it and wearing it to the Forum. And I will certainly not worry one bit about your opinion in that case, as I dont consider you a fan in the first place.

Happy 4th of July!

[Nathan]

Bad, bad move. Carle? AYFKM? This will prove to be a huge blunder; count on it. Best of luck Danny - Cali is WAY better than FL anyway.

Wow, what a trade for management to pull off today, I am very estatic. The trade makes no sense for San Jose in my opinion. Carle and Boyle are the same player, only Carle is cheaper and 9 years younger. But I am not going to complain by any means. I am not too concerned with his play last year, victim of the system San Jose runs. Remember when we brought Boyle into this system he was in the same boat. In our system (if it remains the same offensive system it was in the past which is should under Melrose) he will put up the offensive numbers he is capable of. And he is already better than Boyle in the defensive zone. This will be a great acquisition for the Bolts. Nice job!