CAROLINA HURRICANES NEWS CLIPPINGS August 15, 2018 - NHL.com
←
→
Page content transcription
If your browser does not render page correctly, please read the page content below
CAROLINA HURRICANES
NEWS CLIPPINGS • August 15, 2018
A training center for Triangle athletes is taking shape in Morrisville
By Scott Bolejack The Wake Competition Center will change that, Ammons
said, with buildings designed specifically for volleyball,
MORRISVILLE hockey and gymnastics. It will also have soccer fields and
On Tuesday, when developer Jeff Ammons showed off room for expansion.
progress on his latest project, the Wake Competition Center, Just one of those buildings is under construction now — the
among the people on hand was Brian Tatum, assistant 45,000-square-foot volleyball training facility. But already,
general manager of the Carolina Hurricanes. Ammons has signed tenants for all of the buildings and the
Tatum has an interest in one of the many buildings that will soccer fields. They are the Triangle Volleyball Club; NCFC
make up the Wake Competition Center, a training ground for Youth Soccer, which will have majority scheduling control
gymnasts and other athletes, including players of youth over the soccer fields; Superior Gymnastics; Athletic Lab, a
soccer, volleyball and hockey. sports performance and fitness training center now on NW
Maynard Drive in Cary; and Raleigh Orthopedic Center,
The Hurricanes are likely to practice at the two-rink hockey which will operate a clinic in the same building as Athletic
facility. “We’re just working through an agreement, hoping to Lab.
get that finalized soon,” Tatum said. “We’re very excited.”
Tatum expects Hurricanes players will prefer the twin-rink
The Hurricanes practice now at Raleigh Center Ice, a building over Raleigh Center Ice. “We upfitted a locker room
repurposed building that had other uses before the Canes there” with maybe 6,000 square feet, he said. The locker
began practicing there in 2000. Tatum wasn’t sure, but he room in the 110,000-square-foot building at the Wake
thought one of those uses was a nightclub. Competition Center “would be quite a bit larger than that,” he
Ammons said that scenario — elite athletes training in said.
repurposed buildings — is one reason he is developing the Ammons hopes to have the volleyball training center will
Wake Competition Center on 30 acres between Aviation open “as soon as we can this fall.” The other buildings and
Parkway and Airport Boulevard in Morrisville. Whether the soccer fields would follow in 2019, he said.
they’re gymnasts, volleyball players or hockey players, a lot
of Triangle athletes are training in buildings not designed “We are working hard to get it done,” Ammons said.
originally for those sports, he said.
The five players with the most to prove in 2018-19
By: Matt Larkin Connor McDavid. In Eichel’s three seasons, however, the
Sabres have gone from 81 to 78 to 62 points in the
Which players have the biggest chips on their shoulders standings. He’s also missed 36 games over the past two
entering next season, and why? seasons with two high ankle sprains, which have capped his
It’s still the off-season, but 2018-19 has crept onto the career bests at 25 goals and 64 points. Meanwhile, McDavid
horizon. Training camps are just a few weeks away. Players has two 100-point seasons, an MVP and two scoring titles,
are back on the ice ramping up their workouts. Which while Auston Matthews has a 40-goal season, a Calder
NHLers are gritting their teeth a little harder than the rest? Trophy and two playoff berths. Eichel lags behind the two
Which have the most to prove entering next season? Here players to which he’s compared most.
are my chip-on-the-shoulder top five, in alphabetical order. It’s time for Eichel to bust out and have that 40-goal, 80-point
JACK EICHEL, BUFFALO SABRES season. No more excuses. Sabres GM Jason Botterill has
added a ton of talent this off-season, from Jeff Skinner to
Ryan O’Reilly has been traded out of town. There’s no 1 and Patrik Berglund to Vladimir Sobotka to Conor Sheary up front
1A center in Buffalo anymore. This is Eichel’s team. Three to Carter Hutton in goal, and the Sabres have two legit
seasons into his career, he’s shown plenty of the promise Calder Trophy hopefuls in Casey Mittelstadt and first-overall
that accompanied his No. 2 overall draft status in 2015, when pick Rasmus Dahlin. Eichel is set up for success better now
he was hyped as a borderline generational talent behind
CAROLINA HURRICANES
NEWS CLIPPINGS • August 15, 2018
than at any other point in his young career. Look for him to Hellebuyck and two months older than Andrei Vasilevskiy.
do what Nathan MacKinnon did last year. The Penguins badly need Murray to be a star-caliber
netminder again, as they remain squarely in their win-now
DOUGIE HAMILTON, CAROLINA HURRICANES Stanley Cup window.
The eyes deceive us. He may not appear to play with MAX PACIORETTY, MONTREAL CANADIENS
urgency, but the advanced stats tell us Dougie Hamilton is a
dominant defenseman at both ends of the ice. Still, he’s long Before and after he wasn’t traded at the 2018 deadline,
carried a reputation as being a square peg in a round hole in Canadiens captain Pacioretty insisted he didn’t ask to be
most NHL dressing rooms, as he reportedly keeps to himself dealt and that he loves Montreal. He’s devoted to the city.
more than most and enjoys intellectual activities. Trade But the trade talk persisted nonetheless entering the summer
rumors shadowed him in Boston until he got dealt. Then the with Pacioretty embarking on the final season of his contract,
rumors seemed to resume the minute he became a Calgary and news broke in mid-July that the Canadiens would not
Flame. Now, Hamilton is a Carolina Hurricane. He’s capable negotiate an extension with him. Not exactly the smartest
of posting Norris Trophy-caliber numbers and has plenty of way to create leverage with suitors, but I digress.
motivation to make the Flames regret dealing him away.
Pacioretty, then, should have as much fire in his belly as any
MATT MURRAY, PITTSBURGH PENGUINS player in the league right now. In a contract year, he’ll want
to bounce back from a horrible 17-goal campaign after four
Life seemed easy for Murray the moment he turned pro. He straight 30-goal efforts. He’ll want to showcase himself as a
was a legendary AHL goalie, setting a league record with a trade candidate – or maybe even play so well that he’ll
304-minute shutout streak. He broke into the NHL, won a change Montreal’s mind about re-signing him. For a litany of
Stanley Cup before even losing Calder Trophy eligibility, then reasons, 2018-19 sets up as a crucial season for ‘Patches.’
won a second Cup in his “rookie” season. He roared into the
league like Ken Dryden. FILIP ZADINA, DETROIT RED WINGS
But everything that could go wrong did go wrong for Murray Most rookies need to manage their expectations if they jump
last season. He endured multiple injury-related absences, to the NHL as teenagers. Not Zadina. If he makes the Red
the most notable from a concussion, which cost him nine Wings, he has every intention of lighting up the scoresheet.
games. His father also passed away in the middle of the Openly angry that he fell to the sixth overall pick in June’s
season, forcing him to take leave from the Penguins. Given draft after most prognosticators had him going third or fourth,
what Murray went through on and off the ice, it’s no wonder Zadina spoke out against the teams that passed on him,
his save percentage plummeted to .907, ranking him vowing to “fill their nets with pucks.” It just happens two of
38th among the 49 qualified NHL leaders. those teams, the Habs and Ottawa Senators, share a
division with Detroit, so he’ll have many chances. If he
Entering his second season since safety net Marc-Andre makes the team, he gets his first crack at revenge Oct. 15
Fleury left and now crownless for the first time, Murray when Detroit visits the Bell Centre in Montreal. That’ll be
should be as motivated as any goalie in the league to appointment viewing.
rebound. He’s still just 24 years old – younger than Connor
Mount Puckmore: Four players who define each Metropolitan Division team
Greg Wyshynski In constructing a "Mount Puckmore" for all 31 NHL
franchises, creating the full view of the teams' histories was
When you look at Mount Rushmore, the four American paramount. It's not enough to just pick the four top statistical
presidents staring back were selected by sculptor Gutzon leaders and slap them on a mountainside. It's about
Borglum in order to define the first 130 years of American selecting four players who define the team's history, through
history. George Washington and Thomas Jefferson shared different eras and ebbs and flows of success. Celebrating
an era, Abraham Lincoln defined his, and Theodore what went right in some cases, and recalling what went
Roosevelt was a symbol of expansion and development of wrong in others.
the nation that the others had built.
A few parameters we established:
Lingering in the shadows of that mountain is context. The
battle scars, the sins, the regretful parts of our history. That This is just for players. Coaches and general managers are
is represented in those craggy faces, too, although not listed separately for each team.
observably. But look hard enough, and you see it: The good,
the bad, the entirety of the story that defines that portion of Players' contributions during their time with the team are
American history. what we've taken into account, rather than their career as a
whole. Just because Wayne Gretzky and MartinCAROLINA HURRICANES
NEWS CLIPPINGS • August 15, 2018
Brodeur played for the Blues for a minute doesn't mean they the most popular players in franchise history. We suggested
make Mount Puckmore for St. Louis. some alternatives, but the Jackets fans we spoke to liked
Shelley here. Hit us back in a few years when Seth
There are no positional requirements. In some cases, teams Jones or Zach Werenski (or both) are added to the precipice.
won't have a goalie on the mountain. In other cases, they'll
have more than one. New Jersey Devils/Colorado Rockies/Kansas City Scouts
Many of these picks were made by the editorial staff, but in Martin Brodeur, G (1992-2014)
over a dozen cases, we've reached out to fans on Ken Daneyko, D (1983-2003)
background to pick their brains about specific teams. Scott Niedermayer, D (1992-2004)
Scott Stevens, D (1991-2004)
Again, we're looking for players synonymous with their
teams, ones who define specific eras for the franchises and Potential replacements: Scott Gomez, C (1999-2007); Patrik
without whom the total picture of that organization's story Elias, LW (1995-2016); Taylor Hall, LW (2016-18); John
can't be properly framed. MacLean, RW (1983-98)
With that in mind, please collect your ropes, grappling hooks Puckmore coach: Jacques Lemaire (1994-98, 2009-11)
and climbing shoes, as we're about to scale 31 different
versions of Mount Puckmore in the NHL. The Metropolitan Puckmore GM: Lou Lamoriello (1987-2015)
Division offered up some interesting challenges, but here are In lieu of either a giant trap or the image of a fan yawning,
our picks: the Devils' Mount Puckmore features the holy defensive
Carolina Hurricanes/Hartford Whalers trinity of the team's three Stanley Cup championships: the
Scotts and Marty.
Rod Brind'Amour, C (1999-2010)
Ron Francis, C (1981-2004) The only point of contention? Leaving all-time points leader
Eric Staal, C (2003-16) Elias off the mountain. But when you have a guy literally
Glen Wesley, D (1994-2003, 2003-2008) nicknamed "Mr. Devil," as Daneyko is, how does one leave
him off? Especially when he's the through line from the
Potential replacements: Kevin Dineen, RW (1984-92; 1995- "Mickey Mouse" days in those Christmas tree jerseys to the
99); Jeff O'Neill, RW (1995-2004); Cam Ward, G (2005-18) Devils' Stanley Cup runs?
Puckmore coach: Peter Laviolette (2003-09) New York Islanders
Puckmore GM: Jim Rutherford (1994-2014) Mike Bossy, RW (1977-87)
Denis Potvin, D (1973-88)
While our first inclination was to spell out "BRASS Billy Smith, G (1972-89)
BONANZA" across this Mount Puckmore like the Hollywood Bryan Trottier, C (1975-90)
sign, there are four very worthy representatives for the
Hurricanes franchise, two of whom track back to the Hartford Potential replacements: Clark Gillies, LW (1974-86); Pat
Whalers days in Francis and Wesley. Staal and Brind'Amour LaFontaine, C (1983-91); Bob Nystrom, RW (1972-86); John
were both members of the Canes' Stanley Cup winner and Tavares (2009-18)
are obvious choices from the Raleigh years.
Puckmore coach: Al Arbour (1973-94)
The only argument you could make here would be for Ward,
but it's not a strong enough one to put him above anyone in Puckmore GM: Bill Torrey (1972-92)
this quartet. We could have added Tavares to this Mount Puckmore, but
Columbus Blue Jackets we'd hate to see bitter legions of jackhammer-wielding
Islanders fans forcefully remove it. So instead, we'll go with
Sergei Bobrovsky, G (2012-present) the builders of the early 1980s dynasty in Bossy (573 goals),
Rick Nash, LW (2002-12) Trottier (500 goals), Potvin (1,060 games) and Smith (304
Jody Shelley, LW (2000-08) wins).
David Vyborny, RW (2000-08)
Frankly, we're surprised such a structure doesn't already
Potential replacements: Cam Atkinson, RW (2011- exist somewhere in Nassau County.
present); Jared Boll, RW (2007-16); Fedor Tyutin, D (2008-
16) New York Rangers
Puckmore coach: Ken Hitchcock (2007-10) Rod Gilbert, RW (1960-78)
Brian Leetch, D (1987-2003)
Puckmore GM: Jarmo Kekalainen (2013-present) Henrik Lundqvist, G (2005-present)
Mark Messier, C (1991-97)
Contentious split aside, Nash remains the franchise leader in
every offensive category and was the Jackets' first star Potential replacements: Andy Bathgate, RW (1952-64);
player. Bobrovsky, obviously, is the face of the team post- Frank Boucher, C (1926-38; 1943-44); Bill Cook, RW (1926-
Nash and a two-time Vezina Trophy-winning goalie. 37); Ed Giacomin, G (1965-76); Ron Greschner, D (1974-
90); Harry Howell, D (1952-69); Jean Ratelle, C (1960-
The other two spots are a little less solidified. Vyborny is third 76); Mike Richter, G (1989-03)
in games played for the Jackets while Shelley is by far one ofCAROLINA HURRICANES
NEWS CLIPPINGS • August 15, 2018
Puckmore coach: Emile Francis (1966-75) Potential replacements: Tom Barrasso, G (1988-
2000); Marc-Andre Fleury, G (2003-17); Ron Francis, C
Puckmore GM: Lester Patrick (1926-46) (1990-98); Rick Kehoe, RW (1974-85)
There are a slew of Rangers worthy of immortality from the Puckmore coach: Bob Johnson (1990-91)
first 20 years of the franchise's existence, but we're going
with straight star magnitude here: Gilbert, still the franchise Puckmore GM: Craig Patrick (1989-2006).
leader in goals (406); Leetch, their Hall of Fame
defenseman; Lundqvist, the best goalie in franchise history; Outside of plus/minus and game-winning goals, Mario
and of course Messier, whose "guarantee" delivered the basically leads every offensive category in Penguins history,
Rangers' first Stanley Cup in 54 years. to go along with, you know, literally saving the franchise from
relocation as an owner. The leader in those other two
Many worthy candidates, but these four effectively tell the categories? Jagr, who makes the cut if only to see how his
Rangers' story. Although we're counting down the seconds resplendent mullet is carved into the mountainside.
until Stan Fischler sends an angry email extolling the virtues
of Bun Cook. Crosby and Malkin have won three Cups together so far, and
one of them even made the list of the NHL's top 100 players
Philadelphia Flyers of all time! (The other one is Russian.)
Bobby Clarke, C (1969-84) Washington Capitals
Ron Hextall, G (1986-92; 1994-99)
Eric Lindros, C (1992-2000) Dale Hunter, C (1987-98)
Bernie Parent, G (1967-71; 1973-79) Olaf Kolzig, G (1989-2008)
Rod Langway, D (1982-93)
Potential replacements: Bill Barber, LW (1972-84); Claude Alex Ovechkin, LW (2005-present)
Giroux, LW (2007-present); Tim Kerr, RW (1980-91); Rick
MacLeish, C (1970-81; 1981-84); Brian Propp, LW (1979-90) Potential replacements: Nicklas Backstrom, C (2007-
present); Peter Bondra, RW (1990-2004); John Carlson, D
Puckmore coach: Fred Shero (1972-78) (2010-present); Mike Gartner, RW (1979-1989); Braden
Holtby, G (2010-present)
Puckmore GM: Bobby Clarke (1984-90, 1994-2006)
Puckmore coach: Barry Trotz (2015-18)
Clarke and Parent were the driving forces behind the Flyers'
only two Stanley Cup championships. Hextall is the franchise Puckmore GM: George McPhee (1997-2014)
leader with 240 wins, won the Conn Smythe in a losing effort
and (like Clarke) personified the "Broad Street Bullies" It used to be that the Capitals' eras could be separated into
aesthetic. three time periods: the red, white and blue 1970s through
early 1990s; the blue eagle late 1990s, when they made the
The final spot came down to a question of era: Lindros, a Cup Final for the first time (and then made the Jaromir Jagr
once-in-a-lifetime Hall of Fame talent whose time in Philly trade); and the Ovechkin Years. After June 2018, the
was as infamous as it was famous; and Giroux, who is Ovechkin Years carry significantly more weight for the
second overall in points, adjusted for era. In the end, Lindros' franchise.
star power and legacy earned the spot -- if only because
great expectations that are summarily dashed have defined We still think this Mount Puckmore is the best monument to
the team since 1976. the history of the Capitals, and representing those eras (with
Olie The Goalie spanning them). But Backstrom or Holtby
Pittsburgh Penguins could make the mountain by the end of their careers,
perhaps in lieu of Hunter. (Oh, and Trotz does get the Cup
Sidney Crosby, C (2005-present) bump over Bryan Murray as coach. Give him credit, don't
Mario Lemieux, C (1984-2006) give him credit ... there's no denying he did what no one else
Evgeni Malkin, C (2006-present) in franchise history was able to do.)
Jaromir Jagr, RW (1990-2001)
TODAY’S LINKS
https://www.newsobserver.com/news/local/article216609440.html
https://thehockeynews.com/news/article/the-five-players-with-the-most-to-prove-in-2018-19
http://www.espn.com/nhl/story/_/id/24266284/nhl-mount-puckmore-four-franchise-defining-players-metropolitan-division-teamCAROLINA HURRICANES
NEWS CLIPPINGS • August 15, 2018
1102995 Carolina Hurricanes 1103027 Websites
A training center for Triangle athletes is taking shape in Morrisville The Athletic / Where should the newly signed Brady Tkachuk spend next
season?
SCOTT BOLEJACK
Chris Stevenson
August 14, 2018 03:47 PM
Aug 14, 2018 8
MORRISVILLE
Forward Brady Tkachuk and the Ottawa Senators made it official Monday
On Tuesday, when developer Jeff Ammons showed off progress on his when the 18-year-old signed an entry level contract, foregoing his
latest project, the Wake Competition Center, among the people on hand sophomore season with the Boston University Terriers.
was Brian Tatum, assistant general manager of the Carolina Hurricanes.
Like his dad, Keith, and his brother, Matthew, Tkachuk is intent on
Tatum has an interest in one of the many buildings that will make up the playing in the NHL and, it seems, as soon as possible.
Wake Competition Center, a training ground for gymnasts and other
athletes, including players of youth soccer, volleyball and hockey. With a return to college off the board and rookie camp and training camp
still more than a month off, projecting where Tkachuk could play next
The Hurricanes are likely to practice at the two-rink hockey facility. season is not a bad way to while away a dog day of August.
“We’re just working through an agreement, hoping to get that finalized
soon,” Tatum said. “We’re very excited.” There are three options at this point.
The Hurricanes practice now at Raleigh Center Ice, a repurposed NHL / Ottawa Senators
building that had other uses before the Canes began practicing there in
2000. Tatum wasn’t sure, but he thought one of those uses was a This would be Tkachuk’s first choice, but is it the best choice? The NHL
nightclub. is full of cautionary tales of rushing kids into the league and the Senators
have their own. In 2013, the Senators made forward Curtis Lazar the No.
Ammons said that scenario — elite athletes training in repurposed 17 pick in the draft.
buildings — is one reason he is developing the Wake Competition Center
on 30 acres between Aviation Parkway and Airport Boulevard in Lazar scored 41 goals in the WHL and led the Edmonton Oil Kings to the
Morrisville. Whether they’re gymnasts, volleyball players or hockey 2014 Memorial Cup. As a 19-year-old with the Senators in 2014-15, he
players, a lot of Triangle athletes are training in buildings not designed never found his scoring touch with the Senators (six goals in 67 games).
originally for those sports, he said. His most memorable moment in Ottawa was eating a hamburger that
was thrown on the ice during Andrew “The Hamburglar” Hammond’s run.
The Wake Competition Center will change that, Ammons said, with
buildings designed specifically for volleyball, hockey and gymnastics. It He was traded partway into his third NHL season and has managed
will also have soccer fields and room for expansion. three goals in 69 games since for the Calgary Flames.
Just one of those buildings is under construction now — the 45,000- Would he have been better off playing another year in junior? A year in
square-foot volleyball training facility. But already, Ammons has signed the American Hockey League? It’s one of those great hindsight
tenants for all of the buildings and the soccer fields. They are the questions. In his case, you could make the argument he might not have
Triangle Volleyball Club; NCFC Youth Soccer, which will have majority had much to prove going back to junior as a 19-year-old.
scheduling control over the soccer fields; Superior Gymnastics; Athletic But after his rookie NHL season and his struggles with the Senators as a
Lab, a sports performance and fitness training center now on NW 20-year-old, you probably would have had him play in the AHL looking
Maynard Drive in Cary; and Raleigh Orthopedic Center, which will back on it now, wouldn’t you? He didn’t play in the AHL until his third
operate a clinic in the same building as Athletic Lab. season as a pro and by that point, it was too late, it seems, to do much
Tatum expects Hurricanes players will prefer the twin-rink building over good.
Raleigh Center Ice. “We upfitted a locker room there” with maybe 6,000 It’s been interesting to see the Senators take a much more cautious
square feet, he said. The locker room in the 110,000-square-foot building approach since with prospects like defenceman Thomas Chabot and
at the Wake Competition Center “would be quite a bit larger than that,” he center Colin White.
said.
Like Lazar, Tkachuk (6-3, 196) looks like he’s physically capable of
Ammons hopes to have the volleyball training center will open “as soon playing in the NHL. He was a dominant presence against his peers at the
as we can this fall.” The other buildings and the soccer fields would follow Senators development camp and he showed a physical edge to his
in 2019, he said. game.
“We are working hard to get it done,” Ammons said. Dominating other prospects is a good sign, but it’s still a pretty big leap
News Observer LOADED: 08.15.2018 from there to holding his own against NHLers.CAROLINA HURRICANES
NEWS CLIPPINGS • August 15, 2018
I think the No. 1 consideration with prospects like Tkachuk is making sure The Tkachuk family has a connection with the Knights and the Hunter
he fulfills his potential in his prime. It’s not just about playing him in the family with older brother Matthew having played for them in 2015-16 after
NHL because you think he can play in the NHL as a 19-year-old. a couple of years with the USDP. I could see the Tkachuks, for whatever
input they might have into where Brady plays next season, looking at the
Is playing for the 2018-19 Senators going to be the best thing for path Matthew (No. 6 to the Calgary Flames in 2016) took through London
Tkachuk’s development? and saying, “it worked once, why not again?”
This season has the potential to be a controversial and long campaign Matthew made the jump from the Knights to the Flames and has had
with coach Guy Boucher pretty much coaching to save his job and the seasons of 48 and 49 points and become a pretty effective NHL player,
fate of the Senators three best players up in the air. productive and a pain to play against.
Defenceman Erik Karlsson turned down the Senators offer of a contract Mark Hunter, after being passed over for the general manager’s job with
extension and is going to be traded at some point between now and the the Toronto Maple Leafs, is back as Knights GM. He makes a formidable
trade deadline. junior hockey duo with his brother, Dale. Since the latter became coach
Forward Mark Stone, one of the best two-way players in the league, took in 2002-03 (he had a trip to Washington to coach the Caps for 60 games
the team to arbitration and signed a one-year contract for $7.3 million in 2011-12), they haven’t missed the playoffs and have won four OHL
before the hearing took place. The Senators can’t talk about an extension titles and two Memorial Cups.
with him until Jan. 1. At that point he will be less than four months from The Knights have a tradition of winning and turning out NHL players.
becoming an unrestricted free agent and given what has been happening
around the Senators, why wouldn’t he wait and see what he could get The Knights would give Tkachuk a chance to play in what figures to be a
and where next summer? winning environment and an opportunity to earn the right to play in all
situations against his peers.
If that’s the case and he tells the Senators he is going the free agent
route, he will have to be moved, as well. So, where does he play?
The Senators could have signed centre Matt Duchene to an extension as For me, you have to be a pretty special talent at 19 for the NHL to be the
of July 1, but that hasn’t happened, either, so all options are on the table best place for you to play. You have to have dominated your age group
with him, as well. and proven beyond a doubt there’s nothing else for you to prove playing
against other 19-year-olds.
The Senators aren’t going to be a contender any time soon and are
likely, given the expected departure of their best players, to get worse Nothing against Brady Tkachuk, who turns 19 next month, but he’s not
before they get better. That’s saying something about a team that that guy at this point. He had a pretty good year in college playing
finished 30th this past season. Is that going to be the best situation to against older guys, but he hasn’t done anything yet that indicates he’s
incubate young talent? the type of talent that’s ready to play a regular role in the NHL as a
teenager.
AHL / Belleville Senators
Now, he could come in and rip it up at training camp and earn himself a
The Belleville/Binghamton Senators haven’t made the playoffs since the good, long look. I wouldn’t be surprised if he earns himself a few games
2013-14 season and since then have a 122-158-17 record. It hasn’t been in the NHL to start the season before the Senators have to make a call
a winning environment. on where he’s going to play next season. That’s certainly possible.
Then again, the Senators haven’t exactly been flush with blue chip If he doesn’t show he can play regularly at the NHL level, one benefit of
prospects to stock a farm team. That looks like it’s about to change. having Tkachuk play in Belleville next season is if he shows great
If they don’t make the Senators this season, centre Logan Brown (No. 11 progress over the course of the season, Ottawa can call him and up have
in the 2016 draft) and Drake Batherson (No. 121 in 2017) are top flight him play some NHL games. Sending him to London means he’s there for
prospects. Filip Gustavsson, the 20-year-old picked up in the deal that the season (unless the Senators were to run into a long list of injuries).
sent Derick Brassard to the Pittsburgh Penguins, has come in and No matter where he plays, the option is there for him to play for the USA
become the franchise’s top goaltending prospect. at the world junior tournament and get that experience. Wherever
The Senators brought in a coach with a proven track record in the AHL in Tkachuk winds up next season, he has to play and he has to play a lot.
Troy Mann who has been part of the Washington Capitals organization He’s played one season of 40 games in the NCAA. He hasn’t played
with the Hershey Bears for most of the last 10 years. He helped develop anything close to an NHL-type schedule. I’m not sure the NHL is the
some of the players who won the Stanley Cup last spring. place to start.
So maybe this is the season the Senators farm team starts to turn the As of August 14, if I was going to predict where I think Tkachuk plays the
corner and rather than a roster filled with AHL journeymen and long term majority of his games next season I would rank the options this way:
projects there are some players who have the potential to be stars in the 3. NHL
league.
2. AHL
If that’s the case, then Belleville starts looking like a better option for a kid
like Tkachuk where he could have the chance to play alongside 1. OHL
teammates like Brown, one of his best friends growing up, and
Batherson. Given the Tkachuks’ history with the Knights and the Hunters, that option
is the safe choice and when it comes to making sure your top prospects
I know the argument has been made Belleville presents a controlled are going to reach their potential, I’m always going to err on the side of
environment where the Senators can dictate Tkachuk play in all the safe choice.
situations, but if he’s struggling to adapt, does that matter? Do you keep
throwing him out there if he’s not having success? What does that do for If the Senators are going to embark on a youth movement, there’s going
his development and confidence? to be lots of opportunity for Tkachuk to get playing time in the near future.
Taking an educated guess on August 14, I think giving him the chance to
No matter where he plays, it’s up to Tkachuk to earn his ice time. dominate at the junior level on a good team this season gives him the
best chance of making the most of his NHL opportunity when it comes.
OHL / London Knights
The Athletic LOADED: 08.15.2018CAROLINA HURRICANES
NEWS CLIPPINGS • August 15, 2018
Millar: Dylan’s one of the top players in this age group. I watched him
quite a bit in Lethbridge this past season. He’s big, he’s very competitive,
1103028 Websites a very good skater, has a very good stick. I think he’s going to be a top-
five pick. I think he’ll be in the NHL before his junior eligibility is done.
He’s a solid all-around player.
The Athletic / Pronman: Team Canada U18 GM Alan Millar scouts the
top prospects from the WHL CP: I had a chance to watch a lot of these guys at the U17 Challenge last
season, but Josh Williams (Medicine Hat) wasn’t there.
Millar: He was injured, he broke his collarbone in the first practice.
Corey Pronman
CP: Which was a shame, but he’s playing in a prominent role for this
Aug 14, 2018 team. What have you thought of his tournament so far?
Millar: I like Josh quite a bit. I saw him play a lot last season before he
got hurt. Josh’s best two attributes are his high hockey IQ and he’s got a
I was in Edmonton and Red Deer, Alberta, last week for the Gretzky
great shot. He finds areas and gets to spots. He’s a threat on the power
Hlinka Cup, an international U18 tournament.
play.
I sat down with Canada’s U18 GM Alan Millar to discuss the Western
CP: Sasha Mutala, also a high pick in his bantam draft, he hasn’t been in
Canadian players on his team. I chose that subset of players because
a top role in this tournament but has been good for Tri-City. What do you
Millar is also the GM of the Moose Jaw Warriors and has scouted these
think he’s brought to your team?
players for years. There looks to be an incredibly strong age group out
West this year. Eleven players on Canada’s U18 team came from the Millar: He brings a complete game, he brings a hard game. He’s got
WHL and one from the AJHL; several of those players are top-end guys above-average skill. In this club, he fits more in terms of killing penalties,
in their age group. playing hard and making room for his linemates. He’s a real good
complement for the skill we have in this group. I say that knowing he has
This interview took place about an hour prior to Canada’s semifinal game
skill as well, but the makeup of our team is heavy in terms of high-end
against the USA.
skill, so we need guys to play harder in those two-way roles, and Sasha
Corey Pronman: What does Peyton Krebs (Kootenay), the first-overall is one of those guys.
pick in his WHL bantam draft, bring to the team? What do you really like
CP: A few more to go. Next, we’ll talk about a guy who, along with
about him?
Byram, played on the U18 team last season and plays for the local WHL
Alan Millar: Peyton’s a dynamic player. He’s really skilled, he’s got a team: Matthew Robertson (Edmonton). What have been your thoughts
good jump in his game, very smart and a point producer. on Robertson?
CP: I’ve liked his two-way game, too. Millar: He’s been good. Robby’s at his best when he’s playing a smart,
simple, solid game. He’s done that. He scored a big goal for us [versus
Millar: You look at this tournament and what he’s done on faceoffs. He’s Sweden in the round robin]. He’s a tower back there defensively.
killed penalties for us, which is evidence of his smarts. He can play a
strong two-way game. CP: Both of your goalies are from the WHL between Nolan Maier
(Saskatoon) and Taylor Gauthier (Prince George). Maier has gotten most
CP: Another high pick from his bantam draft, Bowen Byram (Vancouver) of the starts. What has he meant for you back there?
played with Canada’s U18 team in the spring. What have been your
thoughts so far on Byram? Millar: Nolan’s a real mature kid, very focused on his craft. He’s got a real
calmness to him in his game. He plays a smart, solid, structured game.
Millar: He’s as dynamic as any defenseman in the tournament and in the He’s always in a good position. Both goalies are very good. Gauthier is a
Western Hockey League. He’s got a lot of upside offensively. Dynamic is very athletic goalie and a very competitive guy. Not much separates the
really the best way to describe him. He’s going to QB your power play. two of them.
He’s smart, a good puck-mover.
CP: Gauthier was one of the highest bantam goalie picks in the draft in
CP: He seems to have a lot of elements to his game. What makes him so recent WHL history.
dynamic in your opinion?
Millar: Yes, he was the ninth-overall pick to Prince George, and certainly
Millar: He’s fast, he’s skilled, he’s smart and that combination with the in my time, that’s the highest a goaltender has gone in the bantam draft
pace he can play the game at is what makes him so dynamic. in the eight years I’ve been in the Western Hockey League.
CP: Kirby Dach (Saskatoon) was also a high WHL bantam pick who has CP: He’s not in the WHL, but did you scout Dylan Holloway (Okotoks-
also played a big role on this team. AJHL) when he was in bantam?
Millar: Kirby’s had a good tournament. He’s a big, lanky guy. He settled in Millar: Yes, that was two years ago. He was a sixth-round pick (to
well on right wing for us (he’s a natural center). He allowed us to balance Everett). Obviously, he was a guy who went under the radar and wasn’t
our lineup. He’s more of a pass-first guy. He sees the ice well, he can considered a top prospect at the time of the draft, but that’s what
find holes, gets pucks through to guys, but at the same time, I think he’s happens with the bantam draft is guys change so much in a year or two.
skilled enough, he can shoot the puck, but he’s certainly more of a guy I’ve been impressed with Dylan through our selection camp. We saw him
who looks to make plays first. as a guy whose best attribute is the way he skates. You combine a 6-
[foot]-2 package with a real good stride and speed. We can trust with his
CP: He seems to skate well for a guy listed at 6-foot-4, too.
two-way game, being strong defensively and good on the PK.
Millar: I have no problem with Dacher’s skating. He’s a young guy and
CP: Is he 6-foot-2? He’s listed at six-foot.
will get stronger, but he’s got a good stride and [I] think he’s fine in that
area. Millar: I think he’s bigger than that; let’s cut it in the middle and say he’s
6-[foot]-1.
CP: What are the things about Dylan Cozens (Lethbridge) that stand out
to you the most?CAROLINA HURRICANES
NEWS CLIPPINGS • August 15, 2018
CP: (Laughs) To wrap up your quick thoughts on the other two WHL up with names before learning a gender. They kept coming back to Blake
defenseman in Kaedan Korczak (Kelowna) and Braden Schneider and chose the name about a month before she was born.
(Brandon).
Bozak describes fatherhood as an “awesome” venture. His favorite
Millar: Schneids is a warrior. He’s very competitive, he’s got some old pregame highlight is getting the chance to see Kanon during warm-ups.
school in him in terms of a nasty game. He’s a big, strong defender who The same applies to what happens once the game is over.
we really like. Korczak’s got lots of ability. He moves the puck really well,
strong defensively, good stick and a smart overall player. He has a lot of “You come home from a tough day and he doesn’t care how you played,”
upside. Bozak said. “He thinks you played great and he helps you cope with
things. When you got kids at home, it takes your mind off stuff like that
CP: Korczak seems mobile, too. because they’re always smiling.”
Millar: His feet are fine, no worries there. Family was also at the forefront when the 32-year-old was mulling his
options in free agency.
The Athletic LOADED: 08.15.2018
He signed with the Leafs as an undrafted free agent after spending two
years at the University of Denver, where he scored 26 goals and had 57
1103029 Websites points over 60 games. Bozak signed a pair of two-year deals before
inking a five-year, $21 million contract with the club in July 2013.
The Regina, Saskatchewan native amassed 136 goals and 365 points
The Athletic / All Tyler Bozak did this offseason was grow his family, join while serving in a two-way role for the Leafs in 594 games.
a new team and adjust to a new life
“It’s a pretty cool opportunity to have some options and go over some
places you want to go,” he said. “With a family now, the decision you’re
making is different than it was when you’re 23 and single. You have to
Ryan Clark
think about your family and what would be the best fit for you and your
Aug 14, 2018 family.”
Bozak was one of the more coveted players in this recent round of free
agency. He said he spoke with a few teams. They all told him about
Tyler Bozak’s cellphone has died, and it comes while he moves his family where he fit into their plans. From there, it was about speaking with his
into their new St. Louis home. Normally, a lifeless phone is not a major circle of family and friends about what was the best fit.
deal, but it is this time because this might be the first time all offseason
Bozak did not master multitasking. “St. Louis was pretty obvious with the team they had,” said Bozak, who
signed a three-year, $15 million contract. “The direction they were
Bozak and his wife, Molly, welcomed their second child. They did it the headed, the core group of guys they have, and it is a great place for a
same week he met with potential suitors a few days before NHL free family.”
agency began. He signed with the Blues after seeking advice and input
from his wife, parents, brother and close friends, such as Paul Stastny. One of the people who sold Bozak on St. Louis was Stastny, who also
played college hockey at Denver.
Moving to St. Louis meant saying goodbye to Toronto, the only home
he’s ever known in his nine-year career. Leaving can get emotional and it Although they were never teammates at DU, the two became close
also creates other challenges, such as finding a new house, among other friends. They’re also part of a contingent of former Pioneers who train
concerns that come with adapting to a different community. with one another at DU in the offseason. Bozak said Stastny is “one of
my best buddies” and that both of their wives are also really good friends.
He also juggled what comes with being an NHL veteran, along with being
a father and a husband. When Bozak was not conditioning, lifting weights Stastny, who still has a home in St. Louis, was with the Blues for close to
or skating, he came home to help out wherever he could with his young four seasons before he was traded in late February to the Jets.
family.
“He had nothing but good things to say,” Bozak said. “From the outside
“It was stressful. Not going to lie,” Bozak told The Athletic. “The baby was looking in, you don’t now what to expect but everyone that has ever
due a week before free agency but the pregnancy went smooth, the played there and lived there had plenty of good things to say.”
delivery went smooth. You go home and there’s a lot going on at home
The Blues missed the final playoff spot in the Western Conference by a
with a toddler and figuring out where to sign and where my career was
point. St. Louis general manager Doug Armstrong —in response to those
going to take me.
shortcomings — bolstered the roster and it led to the Blues having one of
“I got a ton of support and that made it easy.” the strongest offseasons of any NHL franchise.
The idea of Bozak leaving Toronto was frequently in the ethos. He spent Armstrong signed Bozak, Golden Knights winger David Perron and
the last six seasons listening to trade rumors that never materialized. It Devils winger Pat Maroon, a St. Louis native. He also traded forwards
was something he hadn’t thought about until after the Leafs were Patrik Berglund, Vladimir Sobotka, Tage Thompson, the team’s 2019
eliminated from the playoffs. first-round pick and a 2021 second-rounder to Buffalo in exchange for
center Ryan O’Reilly.
Bozak, who was in the final season of a five-year contract, soon realized
he might have played his last game for the Maple Leafs. Bozak said he was surprised when the Blues got O’Reilly but heard
rumors there was a chance he’d be coming to St. Louis.
“I didn’t think about it too much, and I didn’t dwell on it,” he said. “My wife
was pregnant and we have a 2-year-old. Once the season ends, I’m “Center is important. Look at the teams that have won cups recently and
focused on family. You don’t have too much time when you have a they are strong down the middle,” Bozak said. “To have (Brayden)
toddler and a new baby.” Schenn and O’Reilly and come in and complement those guys, we have
good depth. As a centermen, you look at your wingers. All the way down
Kanon, a boy, is the couple’s first child. Their daughter, Blake, was born the left and right side, they’re all really good players.
June 23. Bozak said they wanted to give their first child a unique name
and fell in love with Kanon. As for their second child, they were coming “No matter who they put you with, you’re playing with a good player.”CAROLINA HURRICANES
NEWS CLIPPINGS • August 15, 2018
Free agency was over and it allowed Bozak to focus on other things, The indefinite time frame on the injury infers that he could return this
such as finding a new house in St. Louis and also balancing offseason season, but even if he does, history tells us that this marks another lost
workouts with his duties as a father. season for the 32-year-old. As was the case with the ACL tear last
season, Sekera may return after Christmas, but players traditionally
Bozak said he and his wife are figuring out the transition from Toronto to require a full 12 months to regain form after an injury of this severity.
St. Louis as the summer continues. They’ve relied upon friends like
Stastny who’ve played for the Blues or his new teammates for advice on From a team perspective, the loss of a second-pairing, veteran
where to live among other things any new St. Louis resident would need defenceman is crippling. Chiarelli will no doubt test the market but the
to know. market is all but closed at this time of year.
That’s what makes having someone like Matt Shaw around even more All that is left in a picked-over unrestricted free agent market are names
important for a player in the midst of a hectic offseason. like Toby Enstrom, Alexei Emelin and Jason Garrison, while teams with
tradable assets have been trying unsuccessfully to move those players
Shaw, who is the director of sports performance at DU, has worked with since before the June draft. More likely, the Oilers will have to make up
Bozak for six years. He said when a player goes through major life Sekera’s minutes from within.
changes it is important to have an offseason training program that can
sync with those adjustments. Sekera often saw time atop the second power-play unit, and it should be
noted that in his absence last season the Oilers power play floundered.
Bozak works out four hours a day several times a week. Shaw’s Of course there were many reasons for that, but this season younger
sessions, while specialized, are grueling for any athlete he trains. Those pros like Matthew Benning, the un-signed RFA Darnell Nurse, second-
same workouts have benefitted Bozak by improving his mobility and year pro Ethan Bear and perhaps even Evan Bouchard, drafted 10th
range of motion over the last six years. overall by the Oilers in June, will all have to pitch in.
“The last few years, he’s maintained himself with how he goes As for Sekera, with three seasons left on his deal at $5.5 million per, he’ll
throughout workouts,” Shaw said. “They’re more detailed, more concise have to be able to prove he can pass a medical after two seasons now
and more consistent. Those are habits you want to see. … He’s really lost to very severe injuries. In a game that gets faster each and every
taken that to heart.” season, 32-year-old defencemen able to survive back-to-back lost
His workout schedule allows him to come home around noon, which seasons are rare.
provides him a chance to be with his wife and children for the rest of the He played just 36 games last season, returning to the lineup on Dec. 21.
day. But he had just eight assists (no goals) and was a minus-15, unable to
Family is clearly a priority for Bozak. He said it can be tough during the find the pace of the game after ACL surgery.
season to spend time with his family because of the time constraints and He played seven games at the world championships for Slovakia
the scheduling that comes with playing 41 games on the road. however, and appeared as if he would be back up to speed and ready to
Bozak said “it’s way easier” having a second child. As a first-time parent, contribute on the Oilers blue line this fall.
he was worried about everything. There’s now a stronger understanding Now, who knows what lies ahead for Andrej Sekera?
of what works and what doesn’t work.
Sportsnet.ca LOADED: 08.15.2018
Another thing the Bozaks have learned about having two kids is that
traveling, at least for now, can be a bit complicated.
“There’s the stuff you have to bring to the airport and you just don’t go sit 1103031 Websites
on a plane and have a nap,” Bozak said. “You’re engaged in something
the whole time. It makes the trip go by quick but by the end, you’re also
ready to go to sleep.” Sportsnet.ca / Gulutzan talks boosting Oilers' speed, Lucic's redemption
The Athletic LOADED: 08.15.2018 potential
1103030 Websites Mark Spector
August 13, 2018, 10:57 AM
Sportsnet.ca / Sekera injury cripples Oilers, leaves defenceman's future
in doubt EDMONTON — Who has had a better vantage point than Glen Gulutzan
of the anomaly that is the Edmonton Oilers?
Mark Spector From a record-breaking decade out of the playoffs, to 103 points, to 78
points and a playoff miss last season, Gulutzan has schemed against
August 14, 2018, 7:01 PM Edmonton from behind the bench in Dallas, Vancouver and, for the past
two seasons, on the opposite end of the Battle of Alberta.
Fired by the Calgary Flames, this summer he was recruited as Todd
Andrej Sekera is limping towards the finish line of his career. Literally. McLellan’s assistant coach in Edmonton. So was Trent Yawney, who
After losing most of the 2017-18 season recuperating from anterior spent the past four seasons as an assistant coach in Anaheim.
cruciate ligament surgery, a tear that happened in Round 2 of the 2017 It’s a Made in Alberta twist on the old saying: If you can’t beat ‘em, get
playoffs, the Edmonton Oilers announced late Tuesday afternoon that them to join you.
Sekera had torn an Achilles tendon “in an off-season training session”
and would be out indefinitely. “If we can cut down on our goals-against, there is enough fire power
here, from an opposing coach’s point of view,” Gulutzan began. “The
He had surgery to repair the tear on Tuesday, the team said. GM Peter game we got shut down the most all season last year was Game 1 right
Chiarelli could not be reached for comment. here in Edmonton (a 3-0 loss). We didn’t get a sniff. It’s a reminder forCAROLINA HURRICANES
NEWS CLIPPINGS • August 15, 2018
Edmonton: Those (chances-against) have to come down in order to have “When I say less video, I’m saying it’s more on the mental side. ‘Let’s not
success.” worry about this. Let’s just focus on this.’”
That season opener, as we look back, was nearly perfect for Edmonton. Fresh eyes and an opponent’s perspective. If you can’t beat ‘em…
Connor McDavid scored all three goals and goalie Cam Talbot had
perhaps three tough saves all night. Sportsnet.ca LOADED: 08.15.2018
In the end, however, it helped to create the perfect storm, contributing to
a feeling among the Oilers that another 100-plus-point season was 1103032 Websites
preordained — that it would be easy to repeat what they’d accomplished
the previous season.
Gulutzan said the coaching staff has already met this summer, including Sportsnet.ca / Cap Comparables: Predators' Ellis inks team-friendly
new assistant Emanuel Viveiros, and planned some changes. extension
“The biggest thing you’ll see is in pace of play,” Gulutzan said. “We’ve
put in a couple of adjustments, but one we think will take — for lack of a
Emily Sadler
better term — some of the thinking out of some of our schemes. That will
allow us to play a little bit quicker. August 14, 2018, 5:34 PM
“When you have skill players like we do … they just need some more
arbitrary bounces, some loose pucks that they can make road hockey
plays with. We’re looking to create a few more of those opportunities. The Nashville Predators locked up another piece of their strong
Pace of play is going to change is some of our attacking formations.” defensive core on Tuesday, signing Ryan Ellis to an eight-year extension
worth an even $50 million.
Acquiring speedy winger Tobias Rieder will help the Oilers’ team speed,
but other than him, the team did not up its team speed this summer. The new deal, which kicks in at the start of 2019-20, carries a cap hit of
However, you can play fast without acquiring faster skaters, Gulutzan $6.25 million through the 2026-27 campaign.
says.
In addition to being part of the league’s most fearsome of blue-line
“North-south. Shorter passes. More support to the puck. Less D-to-D foursomes alongside P.K. Subban, Roman Josi and Mattias Ekholm, Ellis
passes. More quick-ups. Cleaner breakouts. Different forechecks,” he has also been known for being one of the NHL’s biggest bargains. The
listed. “You can play quicker, rather than just playing that traditional style. five-year, $12.5-million contract he signed following his entry-level deal
We’ve gone over every one of those things and identified three areas has seen him count for just $2.5 million against the cap, which is
where we want to change. basically unheard of for a productive rearguard of Ellis’s calibre.
“Pace of play, overall, is what the people in the seats will be able to say, With Ellis signed by the #Preds beginning next season for $6.25M, the
‘Hey, they look quicker.’” club now has 7 defenseman next year signed to 1-way contracts for a
total of $25.6M
What about specific players?
Of their top 4 D, the next player up for contract renewal is their captain
As a guy who has spent much of the past decade figuring out how to Roman Josi, who expires as UFA after 2019-20
beat the Oilers, Gulutzan can’t wait to get his coaching hands on Milan pic.twitter.com/EXsNBXjCZS
Lucic.
— CapFriendly (@CapFriendly) August 14, 2018
“For Trent and I, coming from Anaheim and Calgary, we still think he is
one of the most feared players in the league. There are two guys in the Ellis, 27, will be 36 when this new deal expires, which means it’s possible
league who get a lot of room because of their presence. One is a fourth- the beloved bearded rearguard could spend his entire career in
line guy in (Ryan) Reaves, and the other is Looch. I know teams are Nashville. (On the other hand, it also leaves Poile with a little flexibility
leery to play against him. should things go south seeing as there isn’t a no-move clause attached
to the pact.)
“Everyone here knew that. But I don’t know to the extent that they knew it
had an effect on other teams. I think we have to tap into that, and Trent Ryan Ellis said back in May that he could see himself finishing his
thinks that too. Looch wields a pretty big stick in this league, as far as career with the #Preds. This deal, that will keep him in Nashville until
room and presence.” 2027, brings that vision closer to reality. Great deal for both sides.
As a player whose reputation was forged partially on the back of his — Brooks Bratten (@brooksbratten) August 14, 2018
fighting ability, Lucic has to reap those same benefits in an era when the
Ellis’s point production has steadily increased over his seven years in the
gloves stay on more often than before.
NHL so far. Though injury forced him to miss the first half of the 2017-18
“But, their bark is effective too. That resonates with guys, and can give season, Ellis was a nearly unstoppable upon his return in January. All
you a little more time and space,” Gulutzan points out. “I can say, from told, he registered nine goals and 32 points while tallying a career-high
the other side, it certainly does.” 23 assists in just half a season’s worth of games.
Lucic is just one of many Oilers looking to bounce back after off-years in “Ryan is a huge part of our team on and off the ice and we are happy to
2017-18. From Talbot to Oscar Klefbom, to Andrej Sekera, to Zack have his leadership remain in our locker room for the foreseeable future,”
Kassian — who Gulutzan has a special bond with from their time in Poile said in Tuesday’s press release. “We have talked about wanting to
Vancouver — this coaching staff’s job will be to get this group back to the keep the core of our team together, and this is another opportunity to
level they were at two seasons ago. help us do so while continuing to compete for a Stanley Cup. Ryan is
entering his prime and is one of the reasons why we feel this team has a
“Less video, more communication,” Gulutzan said. “The one thing we chance to win every time we step on the ice.”
sometimes undervalue as coaches is confidence. At this high level, a lot
of it is mental, and sometimes it’s about clearing guys’ plates and letting No longer one of the NHL’s biggest bargains, Ellis has finally caught up
them focus in on certain areas. And building their game up. to his peers’ paygrade — but just barely. When you look at what the rest
of the league is making, you’ll see why he could still be considered a
steal for years to come.CAROLINA HURRICANES
NEWS CLIPPINGS • August 15, 2018
Let’s compare: How does Ellis stack up to other defencemen on similar Craig Button
deals?
Ryan McDonagh, Tampa Bay Lightning
The World Junior Showcase - coupled with the Hlinka Gretzky Cup -
(Seven years, $47.25 million; $6.75-million cap hit) provides a great opportunity for Hockey Canada to look at potential
upcoming players for the World Junior team.
Like Poile, Lightning GM Steve Yzerman has been known for his
wizardry when it comes to signing his big stars — but McDonagh’s And while they would be 'underage' players for the Under-20 tournament,
seven-year deal wasn’t exactly met with as much praise from Hockey winger Alexis Lafreniere and centre Dylan Cozens are definitely on the
Twitter when the club announced the deal on July 1. At 29, McDonagh is radar.
two years Ellis’s senior and his no-trade clause puts the defenceman in
control of his destination late in his tenure which means his cap hit could Lafreniere, a 42-goal scorer last season with Rimouski Oceanic of the
look pretty heavy on Tampa Bay’s books by the time it’s through. Quebec Major Junior Hockey League, was terrific at the Under-18
tournament in April (four goals and six points in five games) and he stood
Stats-wise, Ellis has been the more productive of the two in the goals out at the Hlinka Gretzky Cup (five goals and 11 points in five games). So
department, registering 55 markers through 396 regular-season contests when you're looking at a player who has that type of ability with not that
compared to McDonagh’s 53 in 530. many 40-plus goal scorers available to Team Canada, maybe the
question is: "Can he play higher in the lineup than the 13th forward?"
Interestingly, the two rearguards posted matching stats in the 2017-18
playoffs (five assists) and both have put up dominant numbers in post- In my view, absolutely he can. Lafreniere’s an accomplished player, he's
seasons past — Ellis had five goals and 13 points in Nashville’s 22-game a competitive player and he's shown a lot.
Stanley Cup run in 2016-17, while McDonagh’s career-high came in the
Rangers’ run in 2013-14 when he tallied four goals and 17 points through Cozens is going to have to show more through the early course of this
25 games. WHL season in Lethbridge and he's going to get those opportunities, but
I think he's more of a long shot.
Cam Fowler, Anaheim Ducks
But to me, I'll be very surprised if Lafreniere is not at Team Canada's
(Eight years, $52 million; $6.5-million cap hit) selection camp in December – he's that good.
The Ducks were smart to lock up Fowler at their earliest opportunity, Must See: Lafreniere does it all in wonder-goal for Canada
signing the rearguard to an eight-year extension on July 1, 2017. That
new contract kicks in this season, making him the highest-paid Alexis Lafreniere intercepts a Sweden pass in his own end and takes it
defenceman on Anaheim’s deep, young blue line. the other way, beating three defenders in the process before patiently
rounding Hugo Alnefelt for Canada's third goal of the first period.
The two defencemen took similar paths to their respective paydays. Ellis,
who was drafted 11th overall by the Predators in 2009, followed up his At the World Junior Showcase earlier this month, there were definitely
entry-level deal with a (very) cap-friendly five-year contract before some players on the scene who made a case for themselves.
heading to the bank on a deal that more accurately reflects his Let's start on the blueline. When you consider that Team Canada has no
contributions to the team. Fowler, selected 10th overall by the Ducks a returning defencemen from last year's gold medal-winning team, there's
year later, also signed a reasonable five-year pact upon the expiration of an opportunity for seven new arrivals. Noah Dobson and Ty Smith played
his ELC — though at $4 million per year, it wasn’t quite the bargain that very well – they're the type of blueliners that can go into the World Junior
Ellis’s was — and also turned it into a bigger raise on an eight-year deal. tournament and not be fussed by the spotlight or pressure. They're top-
Fowler has suited up for more games than Ellis, who took a little more end players who are going to be on the team.
time to ease into the league, and has registered 53 goals and 196 assists Up front, Senators prospect Alex Formenton played last year in a
for 249 points in 561 career regular-season games. different role and has the chance to be a front-line player if he's available
Erik Johnson, Colorado Avalanche to them. He has made such great strides in his game, and he may start in
the NHL just like he did last season – perhaps staying a bit longer this
(Seven years, $42 million; $6-million cap hit) time.
A 27-year-old Johnson signed this seven-year deal with the Avalanche When you look further down this lineup, I'm not worried about the skill.
back in September 2015 following a strong (though injury-shortened) One of the things Team Canada did well last year was utilize its depth to
season that saw him tally a career-high 12 goals. The Blues’ No. 1 grind down opponents and keep that pressure on through all four lines.
overall pick in 2006 started his NHL career on plenty of promise but has
struggled to find consistency thanks in large part to injuries — he has That said, I look at players like MacKenzie Entwistle, Jaret Anderson-
never been able to complete a fully-healthy 82-game campaign. Ellis has Dolan, Ty Dellandrea and Shane Bowers – they all showed they possess
also dealt with his share of injuries, having been unable to play a full 82- the ability to be relentless in terms of putting pressure on opponents to
game season yet in his career. attack. Having that type of lineup and those types of players can really
help Canada defend gold.
Johnson, now 30, has registered 70 goals and 192 assists for 262 career
regular-season points in 637 games. G LD RD
Sportsnet.ca LOADED: 08.15.2018 Michael DiPietro Pierre-Olivier Joseph Evan Bouchard
Olivier Rodrigue Ty Smith Noah Dobson
1103033 Websites Matthew Villalta Jared McIsaac Ian Mitchell
Kevin Bahl
TSN.CA / Alexis on fire: Lafreniere should be an impact player at World
Juniors LW C RW
Michael Rasmussen Robert Thomas Owen TippettYou can also read
