NHL Trade Deadline Champs and Chumps

Hey Peeps and anyone else checking in. A special "Hey" goes out to Hazel Mae.

The NHL trade deadline ended with a flurry and a bang yesterday. While everyone expected big named veterans like Bill Guerin of St. Louis Blues and Gary Roberts on the Florida Panthers to be moved - few people expected them to land where they did; and even fewer expected that Edmonton Oilers GM Kevin Lowe would pull the trigger on a trade that would see the face of the franchise, LW Ryan Smyth, wind up on Long Island. So tonight we'll look at back at the winners and losers - of course, its all a matter of perspective.

THE WINNERS

The San Jose Sharks were far and away the big winners yesterday - GM Doug Wilson landed Bill Guerin for a 3rd line player in Villie Nieminen, "prospect" Jay Barriball (drafted in the 7th round last year) and a 1st round pick this year, in what scouts are calling a weak draft. Essentially, the Sharks get an experienced power forward who can score, and who is playing for a contract next year for what could very well turn out to be nothing of consequence. The talk is that the Sharks will have Guerin and Cheechoo playing on a line with Joe Thornton - I'm not sure any playoff team can ice a line that can be as dominant as these three. San Jose now has two powerhouse lines going into the playoffs. Whether Guerin signs with San Jose in the off-season is irrelevant - he is going to be an important part of a run to the Stanley Cup. Another deal that wasn't talked about much, but should be was the trade with Montreal that saw Craig Rivet head west for prospect Josh Georges (a guy projected to be a number 5 or 6 defenceman) - the Sharks picked up some veteran leadership and a solid defenceman for a guy that might have (or might not have) made the team.

New York Islanders GM Garth Snow has taken a lot of heat this year - from taking a job that many felt he had no business taking to signing goalie Rick DiPietro to a 15 year contract - but Snow pulled off the biggest shocker yesterday in fleecing Oilers GM Kevin Lowe. Snow traded prospect Robert Nilsson (a first round pick in 2003 who is dangerously close to be declared a wasted pick), prospect Ryan O'Marra (who scouts think is soft as a player) and a first round pick in 2007 (have we mentioned that it is projected to be a weak draft?) for the heart and soul of the Oilers, Ryan Smyth. The Islanders have been fighting hard to get into the top 8 in the Eastern Conference, the acquisition of Smyth pretty much makes them a lock for the playoffs. Snow also did well in picking up Richard Zednik from the Capitals for a draft pick. The Islanders have been a bit of a joke for the better part of the last 10 years or so - they aren't anymore. They may not get out of the first round - but they are going to the dance.

Pittsburgh Penguins GM Ray Shero managed to address one major weakness in his young team - character and toughness. Shero traded prospect Noah Welch to Florida for Gary Roberts. The deal will end up being a good one for Florida, as the young guy is projected to be a top 4 defenceman - but this is a great deal for the Penguins. Getting a veteran with character and playoff experience like Gary Roberts is going to pay for years to come - Roberts will bring energy and a great work ethic to a dressing room full of young impressionable players...the lessons they learn from Roberts, no matter their playoff fate, will benefit these guys for the rest of their careers. Whether Pittsburgh has a chance at the Stanley Cup is debatable - what isn't is the fact that the acquisition of Roberts just accelerated an eventual run to a Cup, be it this year or in the next two to three years.


THE LOSERS

Oilers GM Kevin Lowe was taken to the cleaners by Snow and the Islanders - on the surface the deal looks good, but history won't be very kind to Lowe on this one. Lowe made a huge mistake by drawing out contract negotiations with Smyth until 20 mins before the trade deadline - he likely had this deal with the Islanders worked out around the same time he traded defenceman Marc-Andre Bergeron there, but he did his team a huge disservice by not shopping Smyth around over the last week or so. I would be surprised if the Oilers wound up with anything from this deal - except a black eye from the fans for trading a guy that was born to be an Oiler.

Montreal Candiens GM Bob Gainey was silent yesterday - much to the dismay of Habs fans, and likely the players on the team - judging by their listless performance last night. The Canadiens have been floundering for weeks now, suffering from inconsistent goaltending and a lack of goals - Gainey chose to do nothing; even with word that established goalies like Ed Belfour and Curtis Joseph who are unrestricted free agents next year. We still think the Canadiens are going to wind up on the outside looking in come April - most of it can be attributed to Gainey's failures; in signing free agents that didn't work out and not making deals to improve his team.

Ottawa SenaTards GM John Muckler (the NHL's poster boy for Depends) again failed to make any deal to inject some much needed character and leadership in his team. Muckler held a press conference to tell everyone he wanted to make his team better without trading anyone from his roster or high draft picks for that matter. Muckler used the tired old line he has used for the last three years "I like this club and I think we have enough to get it done. I am not going to mortgage the future our our club." The SenaTards display last Thursday night (see Monday's entry) clearly proves your team doesn't have what it takes to win - there is a serious character flaw on your team. John Muckler has adopted the Harry Sinden principle - "better to ice a competitive team every year and not win a Stanley Cup, rather than mortgage the future to win a Cup now and suffer at the gate in a few years if our team is terrible." The SenaTards will do what they do every year - disappoint. As a Leafs fan I love Muckler's inaction, he is just dooming this team to another disappointing April. Hey, is it just me or does John Muckler remind anyone else of Sid Dithers (of SCTV fame)?


HUNG JURY

St. Louis Blues GM John Davidson moved a couple of veterans who weren't going to help his team this year for a boat load of draft picks - stockpiling picks is always good I guess...provided he puts them to good use. Davidson goes into 2007/08 with a bunch of draft picks and plenty of cap room.

Detroit Red Wings GM Ken Holland picked up Todd Bertuzzi from the Panthers yesterday - mortgaging some of Detroit's future for a guy who can make a difference right now (provided he gets his act together). Low risk for potential high return - that is why Holland is one of the best GMs in the league.

We won't even talk about John Ferguson Jr. of the Maple Leafs - I don't hate the thought of reaquiring Yanic Perreault, but I didn't like the fact that we had to give up Brendan Bell to get him. This is just another in the long list of stupid deadline deals made by John Ferguson Jr. Brian Leetch, Owen Nolan, Ron Francis, Glen Wesley - none of them helped bring a Cup to Toronto...Perreault won't either.

That's it for tonight gang - lemme know if you agree or not. Have a great one peeps!

Hazel, I hope things are groovy in your world.

Song of the night on Hazelspeeps - if you have read this page before, you know about my best friend "B" one of my favourite people in the whole world. Well, I had a chance to speak to her today and we are going for coffee tomorrow. New rule here on the page - where "B" is involved the song of the day or night will always be the same...the same one I nominated the last time I spoke about her (I wish this song came out a long time ago...oh well).

My Love - Justin Timberlake ft T.I.

If I wrote you a symphony
Just to say how much you mean to me

what would you do

If I told you you were beautiful
Would you page me on the regular

Tell me would you

Well baby I've been around the world
But I aint seen myself another girl

Like you

This ring here represents my heart
But there is just one thing I need from you

Saying I do

Because, I can see us holding hands
Walking on the beach our toes in the sand
I can see us in the country side
Sitting in the grass laying side by side
You can be my baby
Gonna make you my lady
Girl you amaze me
Ain't gotta do nothin crazy
See all I want you to do is be my love

My love
My love

And I know no woman that could take your spot

My love
My love
My love

And I know no woman that could take your spot

My love
My  love
Love
My love
My love

Now if  I wrote you a love note
And make you smile with every word I wrote

what would you do

Would that make you wanna change your scene
And wanna be the one in my scene

Tell me would you

See what's the point in waiting anymore
Cause girl I've never been more sure

That baby it's you

This ring here represents my heart
And everything that you been waiting for

Just saying I do

Because, I can see us holding hands
Walking on the beach our toes in the sand
I can see us in the country side
Sitting in the grass laying side by side
You can be my baby
Gonna make you my lady
Girl you amaze me       
[ these lyrics found on http://www.completealbumlyrics.com ]
Aint gotta do nothin crazy
See all I want you to do is be my love

My love
My love

And I know no woman that could take your spot my

My love
My love
My love

And I know no woman that could take your spot my 

My love
My love
Love
My love
My love

[T.I. Raps]
Shorty, cool as a fan
On the new once again but
Still has fans from Peru to Japan
Listen baby, I don't wanna ruin your plan
But if you got a man, try to lose him if you can
Cause your girls real wild throw your hands up high
Wanna come kick it wit a stand up guy
You don't really wanna let the chance go by
Because you ain't been seen wit a man so fly
Friend so fly I can go fly
Private, cause I handle mine
t.i. - Call me candle guy, simply because I am on fire
I hate to have to cancel my vacation so you can't deny
I'm patient, but I ain't gonna try
You don't come, I ain't gonna die
Hold up, what you mean, you can't go why
Me and you boyfriend we ain't no tie
You say you wanna kick it with an ace so high
Baby, you decide that I ain't your guy
Ain't gon lie ,Me in your space
But forget your face, I swear I will
Same mark, same bullet anywhere I chill
Just bring wit me a pair, I will

I can see us holding hands
Walking on the beach our toes in the sand
I can see us in the country side
Sitting in the grass laying side by side
You can be my baby
Gonna make you my lady
Girl you amaze me
Aint gotta do nothin crazy
See all I want you to do is be my love

Love
My love
Love
My love
Love

And I know no woman that could take your spot

My love
Love
My love
Love
My love
Love

And I know no woman that could take your spot

My looooooove
Loooooove
My looooooove
My Looooove

Peesth Out...Buh Bye!

2008 Whineys

Hey Peeps and anyone else checking in. A special "Hey" goes out to Hazel Mae.

There is absolutely no point in going on about the Maple Leafs/Sabres game last night - Toronto was terrible and deserved the beatdown they got. No point in talking about it, I'd come off sounding like I was auditioning for the 2008 Whiney Awards - on second thought...

The only silver lining in the black cloud that his the Toronto Maple Leafs of late is that Montreal and Carolina both lost to remain within striking distance.

HAZEL'S THREE STARS
New York Rangers G Henrik Lundqvist stopped all nineteen shots he faced in 4-0 shutout of the Canadiens.

New Jersey Devils G Martin Brodeur made 31 saves last night in a 1-0 shutout win over Sid the Kid and the Penguins.

Tards C Jason Spezza had a goal and two assists in a 4-2 victory over the Hurricanes - we are making an exception today for the Tards.

WEDNESDAY THREE PLAY
We were 3-0 last night bringing our two day total for this week up to $250. We'll be back later with our picks.

That's it for this morning gang. Have a great one peeps!

KEEPING HAZEL UP ON WHAT'S WHAT IN TORONTO
Hazel, if you are checking in - you don't want to read link. Check out last night's Hazies below.


HAZEL'S WEDNESDAY HOROSCOPE
You have the drive, energy and the ideas to put yourself in a number one spot. Opportunities coupled with your responsible attitude will lead to a great deal, profit or job today. A little self-promotion will go a long way. 5 stars


Song of the Day on Hazelspeeps - wake up song

Enemy - Days of the New

Peesth Out...Buh Bye.

The Hazies - The Champs & Chumps

Hey Peeps and anyone else checking in. A special "Hey" goes out to Hazel Mae.

For those of you who haven't been here before, The Hazies take a look back at the week that was in the world of sports and single out some of the outstanding performances. The lucky few are awarded a Hazie and have the title of "Hazel's Hero" bestowed upon them - which is better than any recognition they may have gotten. On the flip side, there are those who turned in performances that lead us to think they are chumps, known here as "Hazel's Zeros". While Hazel hasn't officially approved this week's winners and losers, we'd like to think that if she was checking in, she'd give her trademark smile and thumbs up.

THE CHAMPS - HAZEL'S HEROES

NHL
Minnesota Wild G Niklas Backstrom was named the NHL's First Star of the Week after posting a 3-0 record with a goals against average of 1.62 and a save percentage of .933.

Boston Bruins C Marc Savard was named the Second Star of the Week, scoring two goals and seven assists in nine games to tie for the lead league for the week. Savard obviously doesn't know we think that the Bruins are out of it - oh well, good for him anyways.

Tampa Bay Lightning C Brad Richards was named the Third Star of the Week, tying Savard with two goals and seven assists in leading Tampa to a 3-1 record for the week.

He's been nominated before and he deserves some mention again this week - I'm talking about former Boston Bruins D Gary Galley. For those of you who don't know, Galley hosts an afternoon sports radio show on the Team 1200 in Ottawa (we think the morning guys are regular readers here) and is far and away one of the best radio show hosts you'll ever hear - period. If you are a hockey fan, you undoubtedly saw highlights of the Buffalo Sabres/Ottawa SenaTards game from last Thursday night - where Tards RW Chris Neil laid Sabres F Chris Drury out with a very questionable hit from the blind side. The collision left Drury with a concussion and a cut needing 35 stitches to close.

The SenaTards faithful was out in force on Friday, flooding all the station with calls all day about how the hit was a clean one - and how a number of Buffalo Sabres should be suspended for starting a brawl; most wanted Sabres F Andrew Peters executed for starting a fight with Tards goalie Ray Emery. The hosts, homers of course, were all to ready to agree with the Tards faithful - Galley, as is his custom, looked at the play from another perspective; one not considered by the morons calling his show or the station's personalities answering questions all day. Galley quickly gave his view on the issue - "the hit may have been clean by the letter of the law - but it was a bit late; and one where Neil could have laid up."

Galley went on to share his views that the hit is a sign of what the NHL has become, a collection of players who have no respect for each other and are out there to hurt other players. When told that Neil was quoted as saying he didn't mean to hurt Drury, Galley quickly dismissed it saying "I didn't believe Todd Bertuzzi when he said it, so I'm not going to believe Chris Neil now - because he is a Senator." Gally went on to point to examples of players who play recklessly.

Rather than engage in a discussion on the legality or illegality of the hit, Galley quickly put an end to the discussion by saying that Buffalo's reaction to the hit was to be expected - they were going to avenge a "3rd line player" taking out their star player and captain with a vicious hit.
While enraged SenaTards fans called to challenge him - Galley stood his ground and provided the perspective of a former player by saying that the play dictated that Buffalo respond; pointing to a past incident between the Bruins and the Flyers when Galley himself had to drop the gloves (as Boston's tough guys like O'Reilly and Wensink weren't in the lineup).

Galley didn't chastise Buffalo for what they did, and instead called out the SenaTards who were on the ice - Dany Heatley, Chris Phillips, Anton Volchenkov (all of whom are over six feet and two hundred pounds) and Mike Comrie for standing by and watching while Peters tried to pound their number one goalie. When told that earlier in the day when asked about the incident, all four said they couldn't help Emery because they were tied up - Galley's response was "I don't care, you get loose. When your number one goalie is in a fight with a heavyweight, I don't FRIGGIN care, you get loose and help him." Galley pointed to their inaction as proof positive that this team isn't as tough as they say they are - he openly questioned their toughness.

When SenaTards President Roy Mlakar called in (he's Ottawa's version of Schilling on WEEI) Galley didn't back down for one second and told Mlakar exactly what he thought. Mlakar's only response was "Don't you think Ray can handle himself? We all know he can handle himself with anyone." Galley quickly shot back that the point wasn't whether or not he could handle himself - it was having a goalie fight in that equipment, which could easily lead to injury, it was just plain stupid that no one helped him. Mlakar, who can't shut his pie hole, quickly changed the subject.

If you are in Boston, check Galley's show out on the net (link above) between 3 and 6 pm - the guy knows what he is talking about. If it makes a difference, he always has good things to say about his time in Boston. Again, I don't know if NESN or Hazel would consider it, but this guy deserves a few minutes with Hazel on The Buzz. Galley is a Champ in every sense of the word.

EUROPEAN SOCCER
Chelsea's Striker Didier Drogba scored two goals in Sunday's 2-1 victory over Arsenal in the final of the Carling Cup.


THE CHUMPS - HAZEL'S ZEROS

NHL - It is all about the SenaTards this week.

SenaTards RW Chris Neil is the epitome of a chump. First off, the hit on Drury (legal or not) was over the top - Neil could have let up a little and not laid Drury out. It is what Gary Galley said "A lack of respect for other players" - while SenaTards faithful praise this guy for his toughness, he is now what he was when he came into the league; a cheap shot artist. He made his name a few years back during an exhibition game when he laid Toronto's Gary Roberts out with a sucker punch while linesman were holding Roberts' arms - and he is no differrent today.
The so-called tough guy, consistently backs down from taking on the league's tough guys with the standard answer of "I have got to play smart and stay out of the box." Funny thing is though, he didn't think about playing smart when he was after Buffalo's Adam Mair all night Saturday - Neil didn't want to get within 50 feet of Andrew Peters..but he was willing to mix it up with Mair (who isn't a tough guy). I know I'm repeating myself from a few days back - but this guy sucks. With talk of George Laracque being traded to Pittsburgh...there is hope that Laracque will feed Neil his lunch.

The SenaTards' quartet of pussies - Dany Heatley, Chris Phillips, Anton Volchenkov and Mike Comrie (who gets a bit of a pass because he's small) for sitting back and watching Peters go after Ray Emery. Your claims that you were tied up went over well with the Ottawa media - but not so much with smart guys like Galley who saw you standing there watching Peters manhandle your goalie - it was on the tape. Thank you for continuing the long and proud tradition of the crest being more symbolic of Trojan condoms - than the warriors. You all suck.

That's about it for tonight gang - we'll try to break down some of the more pertinent trades in the NHL tomorrow night. Have a great one peeps!

Hazel, I hope things went groovy at the Whineys tonight.

Song of the Day on Hazelspeeps - for the SenaTards

Three Cheers for Ottawa - Fan 590

Peesth Out...Buh Bye!

So You're Going To Do It The Hard Way Huh?

Hey Peeps and anyone else checking in. A special "Hey" goes out to Hazel Mae.

The Maple Leafs dropped a tough one last night to the Canadiens, meaning they are going to have to pick up points this week against two of the Eastern Conferences three division leaders. Andrew Raycroft had a tough game between the pipes last night - he couldn't seem to stop anything from the 10 min mark of the first period until the end of the second. Toronto's defence allowed Montreal's forwards to dictate the pace of the game last night, backing in and letting the Habs gain the zone all night. What was most surprising was that Montreal was the more physical team last night. Well, we could complain for pages here - but that won't do any good; Toronto has to respond against Buffalo tonight, period.

HAZEL'S THREE STARS
Calgary Flames C Wayne Primeau had two goals in a 5-2 victory ove the Phoenix Coyotes last night - if I'm not mistaken, they might be his first in a Flames uniform.

Anaheim Ducks G Ilya Bryzgalov stopped 40 shots in a 3-2 win over the San Jose Sharks.

Atlanta Thrashers LW Marian Hossa scores the winner in a 3-2 victory over the Bruins.


MONDAY THREE PLAY
We go into today $50 on the right side of the balance sheet.

Islanders over Philadelphia - I'd love to be wrong about this game, but I can't see the Isles dropping this one. Lay $75 on the Islander - $240.

NY Rangers over Montreal - Last gasp for the Rangers tonight, plus we hate the Habs. Lay $75 on NY - $140.

Detroit over Chicago - Wings in a dogfight with Nashville. Lay $50 on the Wings - $225.

No links for Hazel today...they're all bad. That's it for today. Have a great one peeps!


HAZEL'S TUESDAY HOROSCOPE
As long as you keep in mind that you can't speak or decide for others, you will have no problems. If you interfere or push your will, you will face opposition. Open your mind to different ways of doing things. 2 stars

Hazel, I hope things are groovy in your world - enjoy your awards show tonight.

Song of the Day on Hazelspeeps - for the Leafs against Buffalo tonight.

The Stand - The Alarm

Peesth Out...Buh Bye!

The Vibesman Is Coming

Hey Peeps and anyone else checking in. A special "Hey" goes out to Hazel Mae.

Before we get into it this morning - a new writer will be joining the page. He is goes by the name The Vibesman and is part of the Yahoo group. He'll be here to talk sports from a New England point of view - he will bring a lot to the page.

The NHL's oldest (and best) rivalry heats up again tonight as the good guys in blue and white face off against the Canadiens at the Bell Centre in Montreal tonight. If the Leafs are going to stick around in the playoff hunt, they have to be looking at picking up a minimum of five points this week; dropping two points tonight, to a Habs team that has been struggling, would pretty much force them to win their next three if they are going to mount any kind of run at the playoffs. It would be cliche to say that this is a must win game, but with the Leafs looking at facing Buffalo twice at the ACC this week (Tuesday and Saturday) and a Friday night game in the swamp against New Jersey - they have to win tonight. The saying goes "Cliches become cliches because they are true".

Toronto will be looking to build off their win on Saturday against the Flyers, a game which saw the top line of Sundin, Antropov and Ponikarovsky held pretty much in check. Initial reports say that David Aebischer will get the start for Montreal - Andrew Raycroft will, once again, take his place between the pipes for Toronto. The key to tonight's game could very well be how well the line of John Pohl, Bates Battaglia, and Chad Kilger match up against Montreal's number one line of Saku Koivu, Michael Ryder and Chris Higgins. After an off night against Philadelphia, you have to figure that Sundin's line will be a force and pick up some points against a rather passive Montreal defence that won't be able to handle their size and strength; however, Koivu's line has been playing better of late and are pretty much the only scoring threat Montreal has five on five, so shutting those three down would go a long way towards the victory. Koivu can be taken off his game if he gets roughed up a bit - but unfortunately, with the exception of Carlo Coliacovo, Toronto doesn't have many physical defenceman; so it will be up to Pohl's line to lay the body on them early and often. Koivu has been known to retaliate (stick first of course) when he is being pounded on and frustrated.

The Leafs will also be looking at Jeff O'Neill, who has had a history of very good games against Montreal, to show some of the magic from past games against the Habs. O'Neill, dating back to his days in Hartford, has had a history of scoring back breaking goals against Montreal - given the extra jump he has shown in the last 15-20 games, it wouldn't surprise me to see him score a big one tonight.

The other obvious key to the game will be special teams -

Montreal's power play has gone south lately, but they are still one of the top units in the league; Toronto will have to take Souray away on the power play and force him to dish the biscuit...something that isn't his strong suit. Montreal, if without Alex Kovalev, don't really have a puck controlling quarterback on the power play - so they will turn to "waiver man" Sergei Samsonov to try and gain the zone. The problem with that is that Samsonov doesn't really like to dish off, preferring instead to do his imitation of Yvan Cournoyer and skate around in circles with the puck - taking Souray away as an option would force Samsonov to create the offence, something he hasn't really done this season.

Toronto's power play has been better of late, thanks to Nik Antropov, who seems to be the only Maple Leafs player willing to stand in front of the net to screen the goalie. With Pavel Kubina out, Bryan "Can Opener" McCabe reassumes first line power play duties - meaning that everything will flow through Kaberle as McCabe isn't as good as Kubina at distributing the puck. The key to Toronto's power play will be how well and how often Kaberle can thread the cross ice pass to Sundin standing outside the faceoff circle - as Montreal will be sure to take McCabe's point shot away.

Both teams come into the game missing a number of regulars - Toronto has handled their injury woes much better than Montreal. The Leafs have been playing short-handed for weeks, benefitting from solid performances from a number of call ups; Montreal hasn't fared as well. The difference has been goaltending - Raycroft has played some of his best hockey with a depleted Leafs team in front of him, while Montreal's goalies have been sub-par. Leafs win tonight...Hazel Karma at the Bell Centre.

Oh yeah, in other games, the Bruins visit the Atlanta Thrashers. Tonight Leaf Nation join with Bruins fans in hoping for a win - we'd like to keep Atlanta close to the playoff pack - we don't think Boston is going to make it.

HAZEL'S THREE STARS
Tampa Bay Lightning C Brad Richards (also a member of Hazel's Maeple Leafs) had a goal and three assists in a 5-1 pounding of Sydney Crosby and the Penguins.

Anaheim Ducks C Andy McDonald had two goals and an assist in a 5-3 victory over the Colorado Avalanche - good way to wrap up the three play.

Chelsea striker Didier Drogba has two goals yesterday in a 2-1 Carling Cup final win over Arsene Wenger's Arsenal Gunners (I just like saying Arsene...because he is one). The trophy isn't very highly regarded in England - but the championship will give my man Jose Mourinho a chance to drive the British press nuts with talk about how he is a champion...again! He reportedly waived five fingers at Chelsea's owner Roman Abramovich to remind the Russian that he has won five trophies in two and a half seasons at Chelsea. Forca Jose!


MONDAY THREE PLAY
We finished the week $100 in the black - but our total for the year is still a disappointing - $1,230. We'll make some of that back tonight - count on it.

Calgary over Phoenix - Flames are heating up for the playoffs, Coyotes are being the Coyotes. Lay $100 on the Flames - $300.

Toronto over Montreal - the Leafs have been great on the road lately...and you know we think Montreal is done. Lay $50 on the Maple Leafs + $110.


That's about it for today gang - we'll be watching the Leafs and Habs tonight...so have a great night!


KEEPING HAZEL UP ON WHAT'S WHAT IN TORONTO
Tucker signs with Toronto - and he wasn't overpaid!

Leafs say they're ready for tonight

Kovalev says he might be back tonight at 70% - meh

Article on Jays P Shaun Marcum

Rod Barajas is no fan of J.P. Riccardi - neither are we!

Big things expected from Toronto's OF

The best Blue Jays OF ever? - Meh...nobody is going to be George Bell


HAZEL'S MONDAY HOROSCOPE
Avoid any turmoil at home so you can put all your efforts into what you can do to get ahead in the world. You can make the right decision about your personal situation and determine whether or not you can fix what's wrong. 2 stars

Hazel, I hope things are groovy in your world.

Song of the Day on Hazelspeeps - wake up song

Hey Ya - Outkast

Peesth Out...Buh Bye!

Leafs Win Baby...Leafs Win

Hey Peeps and anyone else checking in. A special "Hey" goes out to Hazel Mae.

First off, I didn't take down Ottawa Tilt's game last night - I finished third (some bad luck and conservative play killed me) which netted me a big fat zero. Still though, I finished well ahead of my old buddy who was the first one out and was so bored that he offered to deal while the big boys played. Ha ha Tilt!

The playoff race in the Eastern Conference of the NHL just keeps getting better - three points separate five teams vying for the sixth through eighth spots in the Conference.

The Maple Leafs drew to within one point of the final playoff spot with a 5-2 win over the hapless Philadelphia Flyers - the Leafs "second line" of Alexander Steen, Jeff O'Neill and Matt Stajan came up big for the good guys yesterday, combing for two goals and three assists in a game the Leafs let the Flyers stay in for far too long. Still though, a win is a win and we'll ride it to Montreal tomorrow night - the loser of tomorrow night's game can be expected to do something before the trade deadline on Tuesday, be it selling off a few players or loading up for a final playoff push.

The game between the SenaTards and Sabres, while quite entertaining, didn't erupt into an all out brawl as we had expected. Tough guys Andrew Peters and Brian McGratten dropped the gloves last night, with Peters' getting a split decision by virtue of hitting McGratten with two head-snapping shots on the button; the SenaTards fans playing poker last night pointed to the fact that McGratten closed relatively well - but when you get your head snapped back twice and skate off the ice with blood running down your face - YOU'VE LOST. SenaTards cheap shot artist Chris Neil was at his best last night - cross checking a Sabres player from behind and then getting Sabres middleweight Adam Mair to drop the gloves. The decisioon goes to the self-proclaimed heavyweight, but he should pound a guy like Mair who isn't considered a fighter. Funny thing about Neil, he refuses to drop the gloves against real heavyweights - claiming that he has to play smart and that his team needs him on the ice; but is all to willing to take the five minute major against anyone that isn't really a fighter or anyone smaller than him. Neil is a punk who picks his spots - I'm reminded of what former Flyers coach Ken Hitchcock said about Martin Havlat, I think it is applicable to Neil:

"One of these days, someone is going to catch this guy and feed him his lunch...its going to be ugly, but its going to happen."

Can we write the Boston Bruins off now? Please? With apologies to Hazel, its time to call it a season - they are not going to make the playoffs, period.


HAZEL'S THREE STARS
Toronto Maple Leafs LW Alexander Steen had a goal and an assist last night and was a factor every time he jumped over the boards. Steen controlled the play on the ice, and with some better finishing could have/should have wound up with a couple of goals and a couple more assists. He started the season out slowly - but seems to have responded to Paul Maurice's challenge to pick up his play.

Calgary Flames RW Jarome Iginla had two goals and two assists in a 7-4 beatdown of the San Jose Sharks last night. Iginla is one of the hottest players in the league right now and seems to be priming his game for the playoffs.

Manchester United midfielder Cristiano Ronaldo scored in the 89th minute to give his team a 2-1 victory over Fulham. The Portuguese International has to be one of the favourites to win the Premiership player of the year...which would absolutely kill the English media.


SUNDAY THREE PLAY
We had a tough night last night with the Rangers blowing a two goal lead to Columbus - our total for the week stands at - $90.

We'll pick two games tonight to get back in the black.

Nashville over Columbus - the Preds need this one badly. Lay $100 on the Predators - $230.

Anaheim over Colorado - the clock has struck 12 for the Avs. Lay $100 on the Ducks - $240.

That's about it for today gang...sorry for the late update.


KEEPING HAZEL UP ON WHAT'S WHAT IN TORONTO

Was Alex Steen playing ABBA last night?

Tucker is back on skates - finally!

Leafs/Flyers recap

O'Neill turns back the clock

The Big Hurt is a big showoff!


HAZEL'S SUNDAY HOROSCOPE
The more mysterious you are, the better. A chance meeting with someone from your past will get you thinking about days gone by. It's never too late to reconnect with someone you miss. Love and romance are in the stars and travel will lead to a new adventure. 4 stars

Hazel, I hope things are groovy in your world.

Song of the Day on Hazelspeeps - just because

Bring On The Night - The Police

Peesth Out...Buh Bye!

Takin' It Down Tonight

Hey Peeps and anyone else checking in. A special "Hey" goes out to Hazel Mae.

Poker night tonight - I'm heading over to Ottawa Tilt's to take down his game tonight - ya Tilt...you heard that right punk. I'm packing Guinness tonight and I'm taking your game DOWN!

Big afternoon/night in the NHL tonight. Obviously, we'll have our eye on the Maple Leafs and Flyers tonight - it isn't a do or die game yet, but the time is approaching; dropping two points to a bad Flyers team is inexcusable. As always, we'll be hoping for some good Hazel Karma tonight.

MUST SEE TV - I can't believe that I'm saying this, but the Sabres/SenaTards game is one to watch tonight - the bad blood between these two is still boiling after Thursday's game - the Sabres are loaded up for a fight tonight, and the Tards will be dressing Brian McGratten tonight. This game won't be completed without incident - trust me on that one.

Would someone please tell the Boston Bruins that they are done for? This latest little spurt of theirs has all the B's fans in the yahoo group talking about the playoffs - at the expense of the Maple Leafs no less. Please, just stop - you are all setting yourself up for disappointment. I think they just want to see the playoff edition of "The Buzz with Hazel Mae", I can't blame them, but...get real. Boston goes down in Florida tonight.


HAZEL'S THREE STARS
Edmonton Oilers LW Ryan Smyth scored one in regulation and added the winner in a 4-3 shootout victory over the Red Wings last night. Smyth has been quiet on the road trip - figures he would come up big before the trade deadline...guess he doesn't want to be traded.

Boston Bruins C Marc Savard had three assists in Boston's 6-2 pasting of the Tampa Bay Lightning last night - while B's fans rejoice and talk about Savard as the team's MVP - we think he is just prolonging the inevitable.

Boston Bruins RW Brandon Bochenski had a goal and two assists last night - meaning I lost a bet with Renee. Bochenski scored his 3rd goal in last six games (I said he wouldn't get 3 in 10). So, in hopes of avoid an "I told you so email", I am going to publicly admit that I was wrong...in hopes that she won't rub my face in it.


SATURDAY THREE PLAY
We are at +$125 for the week, so we'll be careful tonight.

New York Rangers over Columbus - no brainer, Blue Jackets playing out the string, Rangers still have playoff aspirations. Lay $100 on NY -$240.

Toronto over Philadelphia - Sundin comes up big tonight, count on it. Lay $75 on Toronto - $165.

San Jose over Calgary - the upset special tonight. Lay $50 on San Jose + $120.

That's it for today gang - have a great Saturday!


KEEPING HAZEL UP ON WHAT'S WHAT IN TORONTO

The injury list is getting longer again

Shootouts killing the Leafs - and Poni

Lamenting bad drafts

Five good trades

Five bad trades

Cox is just loving this bad spell

Toronto Sun has same takes

Minor injury to report from Florida


HAZEL'S SATURDAY HOROSCOPE
Creativity will be your thing today so put your efforts into something that you want to develop. You will be in a romantic mood and should not waste any time telling someone you care about your feelings and intentions. 4 stars

Hazel, I hope things are groovy in your world.

Song of the Day on Hazelspeeps - for the game at Ottawa Tilt's tonight

Ace of Spades - Motorhead

Peesth Out...Buh Bye!

It Is Not Over Yet...Right Hazel?

Hey Peeps and anyone else checking in. A special "Hey" goes out to Hazel Mae.

We've got nothing good to report on the NHL today, at least not from our perspective. The Maple Leafs lost in a shootout to the stinking Islanders last night; to make matters worse, the Canadiens and Hurricanes both won as well. Apparently, in the new NHL, being crossed checked into the opposition goalie's crease and having said goalie hold your stick between his legs while defencemen keep cross checking you, will will cause any goal scored by your team to be disallowed. The Leafs found this out the hard way last night as Mats Sundin had a goal disallowed last night because Alexei Ponikarovsky was pushed into the net. The referees somehow saw enough to disallow Sundin's goal, which would have made it 3-1, but the didn't see enough to call a goaltender interference penalty on Poni. Explain that to me? The idiots in the "NHL War Room" (get a goddamned clue NHL and change the name of your video room - call it mom's basement or something) saw nothing wrong with the play. It should come as no surprise that the referree in the middle of this was none other than that stinking little drama queen Kerry Fraser - this guy has a flare for the dramatics.

Toronto now sits in 10th place, two points behind the Hurricanes, and in desperate need of some good Hazel Karma as they head into Philadelphia on Saturday. The Leafs HAVE to win their next two if they are going to get into the playoffs - Philadelphia on Saturday and Montreal on Monday - Hazel, Leaf Nation is calling on you for some help.

I don't want to dwell on the NHL, but there were two lasting images from last night:

• SenaTards goalie Ray Emery smiling like an idiot while trying to duck punches from Andrew Peters; Emery dropped the gloves with the Sabres thug and held on for dear life as Peters was swinging - Peters caught the idiot once, but he should have dropped him. Saturday night is must see tv.

This all started as a result of a borderline hit thrown by Ottawa (semi-tough guy) Chris Neil, who wiped out Chris Drury. The Sabres claimed the hit was thrown late against a defenceless player (but if you watch Ottawa SenaTards hockey, you'd know that's Chris Neil's game) and they sought to take action into their own hands. The Sabres went after the SenaTards on the ensuing faceoff - and a brawl ensued, down came that idiot Emery with a Mike Tyson-like demented grin on his face to fight the Sabres goalie. It was a "jooohke", a damn "jooohke" (that's an imitation of Lindy Ruff).

• What must the 12 fans of the Nashville Predators be thinking after last night? The Predators give up a late goal to send the game into overtime and miss three good chances to win it. With Nashville trailing 2-1 in the shootout and needing a goal to prolong the shootout, coach Barry Trotz sends out star acquisition Peter Forsberg to take the shot. Forsberg responds by falling on his ass while he is going in for the deke. Trotz should have known that Forsberg doesn't like shootouts. Way to go Forsberg...

We'll end on a good note. The second leg of the UEFA Cup Round of 32 was played yesterday - both Portuguese teams advanced with wins. Benfica of Lisbon travelled to Romania and beat Dinamo Bucharest by a score of 2-1; Braga travelled to Italy and stunned Parma with a 1-0 win. We still have hope for a Portuguese double in European play, with Porto alive and fighting in Champions League.


HAZEL'S THREE STARS
Since you know how we feel about the NHL last night - today's picks are editor's choice picks.

Benfica defender Anderson scored in the 50th minute to tie yesterday's game at one and effectively eliminate the Romanians (away goal rule).

Braga midfielder Diego scored in the 89th minute to eliminate Parma and break Italian hearts - we like that.

Buffalo Sabres RW Andrew Peters gets the nod today for connecting with Ray Emery's big stupid melon.


FRIDAY THREE PLAY
We wound on on the wrong end of the balance sheet last night - thanks to Nashville laying an egg; our total for the week stands at +$115. We'll be back later to post our suggested plays.


That's about it for today gang. Have a great one peeps!

KEEPING HAZEL UP ON WHAT'S WHAT IN TORONTO
Recap from Islanders game

Cox' Spin on things

No Rest

Razor's a cool customer

Leafs quick hits

Hillenbrand looks back fondly on his time in Toronto

Greg Zaun wishes he wouldn't

Griffin's mailbag


HAZEL'S FRIDAY HOROSCOPE
Remember that not everyone is as speedy as you are. Take a jaunt to a place that will bring you knowledge, inspiration or a feeling of belonging. You will be able to understand the situation you face much more clearly. 3 stars

Hazel, I hope things are groovy in your world - enjoy your weekend.

Song of the day on Hazelspeeps - wake up song

Get A Job - The Offspring

Peesth Out...Buh Bye!

Quick Hits

Hey Peeps and anyone else checking in. A special "Hey" goes out to Hazel Mae.

Leaf Nation has recovered from the embarassment of losing to the Bruins on Tuesday night; Toronto is back at it tonight with an important game against the Isles. In other games of interest, Montreal is in Nashville, Tampa is in Atlanta, and New Jersey is in New York - looks like it could be a night of three point games.

FC Porto tied Chelsea yesterday at the Estadio to Dragao in Porto in opening game of the Champions League Round of 16. The little team that could heads to London in two weeks for finish off the home and home - Portuguese teams have a flair for the dramatic in England - so we are holding out hope.

HAZEL'S TWO STARS
FC Porto M Raul Meireles scored the first goal of yesterday game.

FC Barcelona M Deco scored for the defending champs in a loss to Liverpool - yes, he was on the losing end...but check his passport.


THURSDAY THREE PLAY
We are at + $190 for the week.

Carolina -$280 over Philadelphia for $100.

Nashville -$240 over Montreal for $100.

Vancouver -$150 over LA Kings for $75.

That's it for this morning gang...have a great one peeps.


HAZEL'S THURSDAY HOROSCOPE
Just when you think you have everything under control, someone will disrupt your plans. Travel the distance and you will find someone who will come through for you. Open-mindedness will help. 3 stars

Hazel, I hope things are groovy in your world.

Song of the Day on Hazelspeeps - wake up song

Flagpole Sitta - Harvey Danger

Peesth Out...Buh Bye!

Larry, Moe and Curly - Shemp to follow?

Hey Peeps and anyone else checking in. A special "Hey" goes out to Hazel Mae.

For those of you checking in for a Weird & Whacked Wednesday update - meh, it has been a slow week in the world of sports. The world stood still watching Dice-K play catch at spring training and waited on the edge of their seats to hear from Tom Brady about Briget Moynahan's announcement.

But we couldn't let a Wednesday go by without an update of sorts - so tonight, we give you the Three Stooges of the NHL. If you are an NHL fan, you know that the trade deadline is approaching - February 27. There are trade rumours coming out of most NHL cities (ok, maybe just in Canadian hockey cities) - teams are talking about loading up for the playoffs with a key acquisition, while others are looking to cut payroll and start building next year's team. Some of the rumours coming out before this year's deadline would be enough to make a Wednesday update under the category of just plain dumb.

Tonight, we highlight the Three Stooges of the NHL and look at what they are thinking going into the last week before D-Day. They all claim to be looking to make their team better, which is funny since they seem to be trying very hard not to make a trade to improve their team. You can bet that by next Tuesday, one, if not all three of these half-wits, will utter the tired old cliche "Sometimes, the best trade is the one you didn't make" or "We just could find the right deal" or "We like our hockey club as is". It won't surprise you to learn that two of these teams won't make the playoffs, with the other being a perennial disappointment.

Florida Panther GM Jacques Martin
This guy was never the brightest hockey mind as a coach (the SenaTards faithful will attest to that), but as a GM he has completely lost his mind. Florida is at the center of a lot of trade talk right now, they have a number of high paid veterans who haven't gotten the job done this year - but as always, there is some smart assed GM that thinks he can rescue these guys and bring them back to what they were. The word is that LW Todd Bertuzzi (go look him up on You Tube) is available - a number of teams have reportedly asked about what it would take to get him. Martin's answer is a young front line player (who comes cheap) and a high draft pick; while some might think this is reasonable, consider that Bertuzzi's back problems have flared up again this year AND he carries a $5M/year price tag (he is not going to be an unrestricted free agent this year).

While Martin should be thankful that someone might be dumb enough to take this guy off, and his $5M salary off his hands, Martin is instead insisting that the Panthers want someone to replace Bertuzzi. This is absolutely ridiculous - Bertuzzi has been one of the bigger busts this year and won't be around long enough to see Florida rebuild into a winner. Martin would be much better off getting rid of that contract and trying to make anyone forget that they ever traded Roberto Luongo.

Montreal Canadiens GM Bob Gainey
For those of you that don't know, Gainey was a member of the great Montreal teams of the 1970's (I hate saying that) - and was lured back to Montreal from Dallas to rebuild a once proud franchise. Gainey has had limited success (some would say no success) during his tenure in Montreal - and things aren't looking much better this year as the Canadiens are better than even odds to slide out of the playoff race. Gainey has made a number of bad signs, not the least of which was Sergei Samsonov - who the Canadiens can't get rid of. With the city of Montreal talking about what the team needs to do to make it to the playoffs - Gainey has pretty much thrown in the towel, and is said to be considering moving D Sheldon Souray who will become an unrestricted free agent after this season. Souray is on record saying that he wants to play on the west coast to be closer to his daughter, and is said to be looking for $5M/year on a new deal. We won't get into how deluded Souray is if the thinks he is worth that much - he is a below average defenceman, with very little defensive awareness in his own zone, limited puck moving skills, and it prone to bad decision making - he is however a power play specialist who has a cannon for a shot.

Gainey knows that he won't be able to sign Souray, so is said to be shopping him around. The first rumour that surfaced (it is so retarded that it was likely planted by the Montreal media) had the San Jose Sharks interested in acquiring Souray. San Jose has plenty of cap room, so they might be looking at him for the playoffs with the thought that they might able to sign Souray next year (though I have a hard time believing that Sharks GM Doug Wilson would be forking over $15 - $20 M for a bad D man); San Jose also has a lot of good young talent that they can be persuaded to part with. So while Montreal fans are split on whether or not Souray should play out the year - they would all love to get a good young prospect. Bob Gainey is reportedly asking for San Jose's number one defensive prospect Matt Carle (currently a member of Hazel's Maeple Leafs in the yahoo pool), a kid who has proven he can be a top 3 guy in the NHL; highly touted young center Joe Pavelski who has surprised the Sharks with his play so far this year (a very respectable 20 points in 29 games); AND Gainey wants a draft pick. He wants two NHL ready youngsters (making very little money) and a draft pick for a guy he is going to lose in April. Sounds to me like Gainey is asking for the moon because he's afraid of making a trade. Matt Carle for Souray straight up would be a steal for the Habs - thankfully, Bob Gainey is one of those dumb GMs.


Ottawa SenaTards GM John Muckler
The NHL's poster boy for Depends is telling anyone that will listen that he is looking to get a solid defenceman and a power forward with some grit. Keep in mind this is the same guy who committed $6 million dollars to sign backup goalie Martin Gerber and 5th/6th defenceman Joe Corvo - both of whom have been complete flops. His old buddy, Florida Panthers Coach/GM Jacques Martin, has made it known that former Maple Leafs LW Gary Roberts is available. Since his arrival in the land of the SenaTards, Muckler has heard fans crying out to get Gary Roberts, Muckler has always said that he would love a guy like Roberts - so now that Roberts is available, the asking price is too high. Florida is said to be asking for one of Ottawa's young forwards - Antoine Vermette or Patrick Eaves, two decent players, but neither is going to be a guy to lead you to the Stanley Cup...not this year, maybe not ever.

So Muckler, who is on record as saying he wants his team to be tougher doesn't want to part with piece of the future to take his shot at a Cup. Muckler's main concern seems to be ensuring that the SenaTards future is bright - rather than winning a cup the fans in his city are dying for. We'll hear it all again in April/May when the Tards are bounced out again - "we are going to look to add another piece or two to take this team to the next level. We'll learn from this year and build on it next year - we have all the makings of a Stanley Cup team."

Please note: in compiling this week's entry no GMs were harmed in any way - though Bob Clarke, who is technically a VP, should be harmed and beaten to a pulp.

That's it for tonight gang - have a great one peeps!

Hazel, I hope things are groovy in your world.

Song of the Day on Hazelspeeps - a song Sheldon Souray might be singing right now

Californication - Red Hot Chili Peppers

Peesth Out...Buh Bye!

For Whom The Bell Tolls

Hey Peeps and anyone else checking in. A special "Hey" goes out to Hazel Mae.

A huge night in the NHL with a number of games featuring teams battling for a playoff spot or playoff position - yes, with 20+ games left to play, we are taking playoff push.

The Maple Leafs host the Boston Bruins tonight for the last time this season, thank God, and with a win can pretty much put an end to a sad 2006/07 season for the B's. The interesting thing about tonight's game is the rumour floating around that if Boston loses, B's winger Marco Sturm will be staying in Toronto to join the Leafs, with Maple Leafs blueliner Brendan Bell going to Boston. I'm really hoping this one doesn't happen - I'm going to start my own NHL rumour this morning. If the Edmonton Oilers lose tonight, expect a trade to happen by the end of the week - Oilers LW Ryan Smyth goes to Toronto for Leafs LW Darcy Tucker, D Brendan Bell, and a draft pick. I like it.

And though most of you don't care - UEFA Champions League round of 16 starts today - we'll have our eye on Porto vs Chelsea tomorrow.


HAZEL'S THREE STARS
Boston Bruins RW Petr Tenkrat scored two goals in a 6-3 win over the hapless Flyers last night - normally we'd take much more pleasure out of a Flyers' loss...but its tempered by the fact the damn Bruins are hanging around. Tenkrat prolongs the agony in Boston - it'll be over tonight.

New York Islanders LW Chris Simon scored two goals in a 6-5 victory over the Penguins yesterday - the Pens first regulation loss in almost two months.

Nashville Predators RW Scott Hartnell scored twice as the Preds beat Phoenix by a score of 4-1; the Preds first win with Peter Forsberg in the lineup.


TUESDAY THREE PLAY
We got off on the right foot yesterday with two wins - starting the week at + $150. Tonight's suggested plays:

Toronto over Boston - the Leafs have a chance to move up in the standings with a win and face a Bruins team playing their third road game in four nights. Its time for the Leafs to start playing well at home - might as well drive a stake in the B's hearts while they are at it. No word on whether or not Hazel made the trip home to catch the game...but we're hoping for Hazel Karma at the Hanger tonight. Lay $75 on Toronto - $225.

Ottawa over Edmonton - time for the Oilers to pack it in; they're all important road trip is off to a disasterous start and their season is all but done now. C'mon Kevin Lowe...make that trade with Toronto. Lay $100 on the SenaTards - $210.

Tampa Bay over Florida - the Lightning are looking to solidify their third seed, they'll get it done tonight against a Florida team that is wondering who will be there next week. Lay $100 on the Lightning - $210.

That's it for today gang...running late here. Have a great one peeps!


KEEPING HAZEL UP ON WHAT'S WHAT IN TORONTO
Just in case Hazel is still hanging out in Boston today

Toronto showcasing Brendan Bell?

Sundin finally getting some help

Sundin don't care about no stinking records

Peca playing to be back for playoffs

The Chickenhawk = Howie Mandel

The Chickenhawk isn't exactly throwing his full support behind Gibbons

Who knew Boomhauer was such a funny guy?


HAZEL'S TUESDAY HOROSCOPE
Don't flip out if someone does something you don't like. You won't get all the facts you need to make a good decision. You may be a take-action person but sometimes it's better to watch and wait. 3 stars

Hazel, I hope things are groovy in your world.

Song of the Day on Hazelspeeps - playoff push in Toronto, we'll go back to better days in T.O.

No Limits - 2Unlimited

Peesth Out...Buh Bye!

Hey Peeps and anyone else checking in. A special "Hey" goes out to Hazel Mae.

For those of you who haven't been here before, Monday entries take a look back at the week that was in professional sports and highlight some of the outstanding performances from the world of hockey, football, baseball and European football (soccer). To those who have risen above the rest, we award them with an honourary "Hazie" - these lucky winners have the title of "Hazel's Hero" bestowed upon them.

While Hazel hasn't officially OK'd this week's winners, we'd like to think she give her trademark smile (ya THAT smile) and thumbs up.

HAZEL'S HEROES - THE CHAMPS
Detroit Red LW Henrik Zetterberg was named the NHL's First Star of the Week for the second straight week. "Zets" had another outstanding week scoring four goals and adding four assists in three games - Zetterberg registered a point on all eight goals the Wings scored last week. From a personal perspective, his hat-trick performance on Saturday sealed a Pro-Line scorers ticket for me...so we really like him this week.

Anaheim Ducks RW Teemu Selanne was named the Second Star of the Week. Selanne tied Zetterberg for most points last week, scoring four goals and four assists in four games. While Anaheim has been struggling of late, the Finnish flash has been steady if not outstanding.

Colorado Avalanche C Joe Sakic was named the Third Star of the Week. Like the other two stars, Sakic had eight points in four games - two goals and six assists - including a five point night against the Calgary Flames last Thursday which killed our Three Play AND a great Pro-Line ticket. Oh well, we still like Sakic - one of the classiest players in the NHL...a true champ.

Carolina Hurricanes C Rod Brind'Amour reached a milestone in Montreal on Saturday, scoring his 400th career goal. I've said this before, but Brind'Amour is one of the ultimate foot soldiers in the NHL - he's been good everywhere he has played, and never gets enough recognition for his play.

Toronto Maple Leafs C Mats Sundin scored his 521st career goal on Saturday against the Oilers - putting him at 28th on the all-time goal scorers list. Sundin, like Brind'Amour, has never gotten the credit he really deserves for being one of the games very best players - its changing though, as fans and media have acknowledged that he is playing the best hockey of his career right now while he carries the Maple Leafs towards a playoff berth.

New Jersey Devils G Martin Brodeur is proving why he is, without a doubt, the best goaltender in the world - in the new NHL, with all of the power play opportunities and scoring chances, Brodeur recorded his 11th shutout last week. Brodeur is closing in on the one record thought to be unattainable - the all-time shutouts record of 103 - at this rate, he'll break the record sometime next year and cement his entry into the Hall of Fame as one of the best, if not THE best, goalie the NHL has ever seen.

Nashville Predators GM David Poile deserves a lot of credit for beating every other NHL GM (even Brian Burke) in the Peter Forsberg sweepstakes - in a time where every GM, other than Burke, seems hesitant to pull the trigger on a big trade, Poile fleeced the Flyers last week (you have to think that Bob Clarke had final word on the trade) in getting Forsberg and only losing a third to fourth line player from his roster. The Flyers traded Forsberg for an underachieving forward who may never pan out, a junior defenceman who is projected to be a number 3-4 D man at best, and a late 1st and 3rd round pick in what is being projected as a very weak draft year. Poile is taking aim at the Stanley Cup - he understands that the window of opportunity is limited. Paul Holmgren (and Bob Clarke) didn't do their homework on this one - if Nashville wins the Cup, this could go down as one of the worst trades of all-time...Bob Clarke's legacy as a GM/VP in the NHL.

That's about it for tonight gang - no chumps this week; we are still in a sun shiny world after a GREAT weekend on Pro-Line. Have a great one peeps!

Hazel, I hope things are groovy in your world.

Song of the Night on Hazelspeeps - shoot me now, I heard a bad muzak version of it at work today and can't get it out of my head; don't ask me how I knew the song.

Tell Me Lies - Fleetwood Mac

Peesth Out...Buh Bye!

It Was Only Columbus - For God's Sake

Hey Peeps and anyone else checking in. A special "Hey" goes out to Hazel Mae.

Our American friends are celebrating Presidents Day today - hope your long weekend has been a good one.

You have got to love Montreal Canadiens fans - they beat a bad Columbus Blue Jackets team and they fire off "We're back on track" emails. I've got news for you all - it was just Columbus, no big deal winning there...you won't make the damn playoffs, so stop the emails please.

Expect this week to be a hot one in the NHL with rumours that a number of veteran wingers will be on the move this week; among those who can expected to be traded this week:

• Gary Roberts of the Panthers - talk is that up to 10 teams are looking to acquire him for a playoff run, Florida hasn't given up on the playoffs yet, but you have to think he'll be moved this week. The Maple Leafs are said to be "mildly interested" but the asking price may be too high for a 41 year old winger - the SenaTards are said to be front-runners in the bidding process, funny how a team that insists they have heart and character are so desperate to instill some in their stinking team.
  
  
• Bill Guerin of the Blues - another highly sought after veteran who will bring leadership and a "team-first" attitude to anyone who picks him up. Guerin has been red-hot of late and has drawn interest from a number of teams; look for the Blues to move him early this week as Blues GM John Davidson wants to get something for Guerin before he leaves as a UFA.
  
  
• Keith Tzachuk of the Blues - why anyone would be interested in this guy is beyond me, he hasn't been a factor in years...but there is always some dumb GM who thinks that they can get the most out of a washed up, overweight, former star. As I write this, I can't help but think John Ferguson Jr is dumb enough to get involved with Tzachuk.
  
  
• Marco Sturm of the Bruins - the Bruins are about to become sellers this week, irregardless of what their management says, they know they don't have enough to get it done this year; they'll move Sturm. The rumour that won't go away is Sturm to the Maple Leafs for defenceman Brendan Bell. Not sure how I feel about this one - I'd rather see Toronto get rid of Bryan McCabe and his riduculous contract - but we are stuck with the albatross for four more years - thanks for nothing JFJ.

HAZEL'S THREE STARS
Dallas Stars C Mike Ribeiro had two goals in a 5-2 victory over the San Jose Sharks yesterday - while it sucked for our Three Play, you know the rules about showing Portuguese kids some love on this page.

New York Rangers G Henrik Lundqvist stopped 21 shots in a 2-1 victory over the Blackhawks yesterday - he's been having a tough go of late, but he came up big yesterday in a game where someone needed to step up in the absence of Brendan Shanahan.

Vancouver Canucks super pest C Matt Cooke had a goal and two assists last night in a 5-4 victory over the Colorado Avalanche - likely the final nail in the coffin on the Avs 2006/07 season.


MONDAY THREE PLAY
We started out last week on fire, but thanks to a few brain cramps (thanks for nothing Calgary Flames and Nashville Predators) we finished the week $200 in the red - our total for the year is bad, - $1,330 - but we'll change that this week.

Nashville over Phoenix - the Predators have been lights out at home, even with the loss to Minnesota on the weekend - expect them to win their first game with Forsberg in the lineup. Lay $100 on the Predators - $320.

NY Islanders over Pittsburgh - I know this one sounds crazy...just call it a gut pick. Lay $50 on the Isles - $110.

Back later with a pick on the Bruins/Flyers game - you probably won't like it much.

That's about it for today gang - enjoy your Presidents Day if you are south of the border; if you are up here, enjoy another day in the frozen tundra that is Ontario.


KEEPING HAZEL UP ON WHAT'S WHAT IN TORONTO
Maple Leafs are looking forward

Curt Schilling Jr. formerly known as Josh Towers

Speaking of Schilling

Time to make it Home Sweet Home

Darcy Tucker should be back soon

Sundin closing in on Leafs records


HAZEL'S PRESIDENTS DAY HOROSCOPE
Someone is likely to divulge secret information that will come in handy regarding a legal or health matter. Don't let yourself get all worked up over nothing or you will miss out on something that you want to do. 3 stars

Hazel, I hope things are groovy in your world and that you are enjoying your long weekend.

Song of the Day on Hazelspeeps - because Seal turns 44 today

Kiss From A Rose - Seal

Peesth Out...Buh Bye!

Sunday Three Play

Hey Peeps and anyone else checking in. A special "Hey" goes out to

Quick post for our Sunday Three Play

Pittsburgh over Washington - some these this as a trap game, a game Pittsburgh should win easily but will somehow find a way to lose - don't believe it; the Penguins are fighting for fourth spot in the Conference - they'll be focused. Lay $100 on Pittsburgh - $275.

San Jose over Dallas - the Sharks have killed the Stars in this series, don't see things changing much today. Lay $100 on San Jose - $110.

Vancouver over Colorado - Canucks get it done on home ice tonight against a tired Colorado team. Lay $100 on the Canucks - $175.

Have a great afternoon peeps!

Hazel, I hope things are groovy in your world.

Peesth Out...Buh Bye!

Hey Peeps and anyone else checking in. A special "Hey" goes out to Hazel Mae.

What a great night at the Air Canada Centre - the last Maple Leafs team to win the Stanley Cup was honoured, and the Captain was dominant in another win for the good guys. Toronto got two goals from both Mats Sundin and John Pohl in a 4-3 win over the Edmonton Oilers. Toronto survived a last minute scare to hold on for the win and move into eight spot in the Eastern Conference standings. Sundin was dominant last night, scoring a highlight reel goal - Sundin bulldozed his way out of the corner, fighting off Edmonton defenceman Steve Staios, to score a wrap around goal to make it 4-2. Sundin started out the game going 11-0 on faceoffs and controlled the flow of the game when he was out on the ice.

Last night's game was a prime example of why this undermanned team has been winning:

• Raycroft wasn't particularly busy, but he bailed the Leafs out twice with huge saves of Edmonton's Ryan Smyth;
  
• Ian White and Hal Gill were steady last night - they played a number of shifts against the Oilers' number one line and held them at bay;
  
• Jeff O'Neill, who had been in Paul Maurice's doghouse, was a physical force last night, throwing his body around and competing for the puck all night long;
  
• The Leafs 3rd line of Pohl, Bates Battaglia and Chad Kilger worked hard all night, laying the body on the Oilers D and pressuring them all night - they were a big reason for Edmonton's D wearing down late in the game;
  
• Sundin was Sundin last night - not only has he elevated his play, he has made Ponikarovsky and Antropov look like first line players.
  

Toronto is looking at three games that they should win this week - or at least pick up four points at worst. Boston at home on Tuesday (will Hazel be at the ACC? Things that make you go hmmm); in New York to face the Islanders on Thursday; and in Philadelphia next Saturday. Hazel Karma baby...Hazel Karma.

The two teams tied with Toronto going into yesterday's action both lost - Montreal fell 5-3 to the Carolina Hurricanes and the Islanders were shutout 2-0 by the Devils. We won't revel in their misery - instead opting to celebrate our victory last night.

HAZEL'S THREE STARS
Toronto Maple Leafs C Mats Sundin led the charge to the playoffs last night.

Carolina Hurricanes C Rod Brind'Amour scored two goals against Montreal last night, including the 400th of his career. The man has been the ultimate foot soldier in the NHL.

Detroit Red Wings LW Henrik Zetterberg had three goals and an assist last night against Phoenix.

I picked these three guys in the Pro-Line scorers pool yesterday - they finished 1-2-3, which means the payout on the ticket is 185 - 1. Booyah! Note to my man Ottawa_Tilt - yes, I'm buying lunch this week!


SUNDAY THREE PLAY
A tough day yesterday, one that we would rather forget - I have to correct a mistake though, the Rangers were - $225 not $275. No matter though, the balance sheet for the week stands at - $290 and that is not acceptable.

We'll be back a bit later with today's picks. That's it for this morning gang, have a great one peeps!


KEEPING HAZEL UP ON WHAT'S WHAT IN TORONTO
Keon was measured and careful with his words this weekend

Maple Leafs/Oilers Recap

At least we aren't the Cubs

Teammates happy for Keon

Tucker is about a week away

Rosie is right about Keon and Ceremony

Star wrap up on game


HAZEL'S SUNDAY HOROSCOPE
This is the perfect time to go through your files or reconsider your financial position. Changes can be made that will increase your cash flow and give you room to breath. Someone in the know will offer you some creative suggestions. 3 stars

Hazel, I hope things are groovy in your world.

Song of the Day on Hazelspeeps - for Leaf Nation this morning

Groovy Times - The Clash

Peesth Out...Buh Bye!

Remembering 1967

Hey Peeps and anyone else checking in. A special "Hey" goes out to Hazel Mae.

Big night at the ACC tonight - the kind of night Hazel would probably want to be in attendance at - as the Toronto Maple Leafs honour the 1967 Maple Leafs, the last Toronto team to win the Stanley Cup. The big news out of Toronto is that former Captain Dave Keon (my first favourite Maple Leafs player, with Salming being the ultimate Leaf) will end his self-imposed exile to participate in the festivities; sad thing is that there are rumours that he is being paid to be there tonight.

The Leafs host the Oilers tonight (I had Philly and Boston on the brain yesterday when I said Toronto's next two were against them) and can pretty much put an end to their season with a win. Andrew Raycroft will start his 20th consecutive game tonight setting a record for most consecutive starts by a Maple Leafs goalie - we'll need him to come up big tonight; another dominating performance by Mats Sundin wouldn't hurt either. So with the festivities are the ACC tonight, Leaf Nation is looking for a little bit of Hazel Karma as we march towards the playoffs - she may not be there tonight, but we'd like to think she'll be there in spirit.

We'll be back later with more on tonight's games - it goes without saying we'll have our eye on Carolina and Montreal tonight.


HAZEL'S THREE STARS
Tough picking today's stars since they all had a hand in screwing yesterday's Three Play - but we try to be objective here.

Columbus Blue Jackets G Fredrik Norrena made 29 saves last night as the Jackets stunned Joe Thornton and that Sharks in a 3-0 shutout win.

Pittsburgh Penguins LW Jarkko Ruutu had two goals to lead the red-hot Penguins to a 5-4 victory over a shell-shocked Martin Brodeur and the New Jersey Devils.

St. Louis Blues RW Bill Guerin scored a beauty last night - the only goal of the game - in a 1-0 win over the Nashville Predators.


SATURDAY THREE PLAY
We blew up last night - and blew most of the bankroll in the process. We stand at + $80 for the week - we'll get back on track today.

New York Rangers over Philadelphia - with or without Forsberg, the Flyers are not going to get it done today, the Rangers are hot right now and are playing inspired hockey. Lay $100 on the Rangers - $275

Nashville over Minnesota - Forsberg's first game for the Predators, expect them to come out flying - even though they are coming off a loss last night. Lay $100 on the Preds - $220.

Toronto over Edmonton - have I mentioned Hazel Karma today? Lay $75 on the Maple Leafs - $145.


KEEPING HAZEL UP ON WHAT'S WHAT IN TORONTO
Inspiration for tonight's game vs Edmonton

40 freaking years huh?

Record setting night for Razor

Examining Keon's exile

No one covers the Maple Leafs like The Sun

Burnett plans to stay healthy - ah huh

That's about it for this morning gang...have a great one peeps.


HAZEL'S SATURDAY HOROSCOPE
It may be difficult for you to contain your thoughts, but keep things to yourself today. The more observant you are, the better your chance to make the right decision. The information you discover will help put you in a challenging and competitive position. 4 stars

Hazel, I hope things are groovy in your world - hope you tune into Leafs game tonight.

Song of the Day on Hazelspeeps - I'm really pissed right now, I couldn't get a ticket to see The Police at the ACC in July. My favourite band and I get shut out...no friggin justice in this world. So if anyone can score tickets for me...

Message In A Bottle - The Police

I'll send an SOS to the world
I'll send an SOS to the world
I hope that someone gets my
I hope that someone gets my
Message in a bottle

Peesth Out...Buh Bye!

Burnett plans to stay healthy - ah huh

No Forsberg? Or Was It Really Hazel Karma?

Hey Peeps and anyone else checking in. A special "Hey" goes out to Hazel Mae.

The weather outside is miserable - cloudy, with a temperature of -26 C with the windchill - that's about 14 below Farenheit for our American friends; but it may as well be a warm day in June with the Maple Leafs playing for the Stanley Cup. I'm getting ahead of myself of course, but that is what it feels like today after the Maple Leafs 4-2 victory over the Flyers last night. The Maple Leafs got goals from four different players, including Mats Sundin, and got steady goaltending from Andrew Raycroft in beating the Flyers last night (I just love saying that - beating the Flyers). The win moved Toronto into a three way tie with Montreal and the New York Islanders for 8th spot in the Eastern Conference, and one point behind the 7th place Carolina Hurricanes who fell to the Rangers last night. The Maple Leafs next two games are at home to Philadelphia and Boston - two games that they should win.

Speaking of Boston - the Bruins saw their hopes of getting into playoff contention take a major hit after dropping a 4-1 decision to the Islanders last night. Go figure, one of the few times that Leafs fans are cheering for the Bruins (and not just because of Hazel Mae) and they go out and lay an egg. Thanks for nothing Boston - Let the fire sale begin!

The Edmonton Oilers dropped a 2-1 decision in overtime last night - meaning that they will be joining the Bruins as sellers coming up to the NHL trade deadline. While everyone is talking about the possibility that Ryan Smyth might be traded, according to Eklund - the Oilers are looking at moving Shawn Horcoff.


HAZEL'S THREE STARS
Toronto Maple Leafs Captain Mats Sundin had a goal and an assist in the win against the Flyers last night - Sundin has been on a mission over the last couple of months; he is looking good on his assertion that Toronto would make the playoffs.

Colorado Avalanche C Joe Sakic had two goals, including his 600th, and three assists in a 7-5 win over the Flames - which isn't sitting well with us today; I'll explain later.

Braga striker Ze Carlos da Silva scored in the 81st minute to give the Portuguese side a 1-0 victory over Parma of Italy in the opening game of the UEFA Cup Round of 32 tie.


FRIDAY THREE PLAY
2-1 last night and we wind up $45 in the red - thanks to the damned Flames blowing a two goal lead TWICE. They also blew a great Pro-Line ticket...I hope they get bounced out in the first round of the playoffs for stinking so much. The balance sheet for the week is $455 in the black - so that's the bright side.

San Jose over Columbus - the Sharks were humiliated in Nashville the other night...they'll take their frustrations out on the Blue Jackets. Lay $100 on the Sharks - $170.

New Jersey over Pittsburgh - the Penguins have been flying of late, but they'll be grounded tonight by the Devils who know how to shut down the likes of Crosby, Malkin and Staal. Lay $75 on the Devils - $150.

Nashville over St. Louis - the Preds will be bolstered by news of Forsberg's impending arrival. Lay $50 on Nashville - $175.

That's about it for this morning gang. Have a great one peeps! Be sure to scroll down and read yesterday's post from my buddy Ottawa_Tilt's on the John Amaechi/Tim Hardaway affair (no pun intended).


KEEPING HAZEL UP ON WHAT'S WHAT IN TORONTO
No Forsberg? Big Problem for the Flyers

Leafs Win!

Did I mention - Leafs Win?

Welcome home Dave Keon

Richard Griffin answers mailbag

Theo isn't the only one spending like a drunken sailor

Halladay feeling good

Make or break season for Boomhauer


HAZEL'S FRIDAY HOROSCOPE
If you have to travel to fix a dilemma or to seal a deal, do so. Speeding or not paying attention will cause delays. You may like to do things on your own but today may require teamwork. 4 stars

Hazel, I hope things are groovy in your world - enjoy your weekend.

Song of the day on Hazelspeeps - just because

Looking Through The Glass - Stone Sour

Peesth Out...Buh Bye!