ESPN

Buzzmaster

  (11:06 AM)

Send in your questions for today's Thursday Night Hockey chat. We start at 3 p.m. ET!

Barry Melrose

  (3:02 PM)

An unbelievably great night of hockey last night...Rangers playing awesome and the Stars look to be back. A lot of good stories so far.

Mike Pope (Pittsburgh)

In the early going, Marc-Andre Fleury has looked spectacular in net for the Penguins. Does this improve his chances of playing during the Olympics in February?

Barry Melrose

  (3:02 PM)

It does. Luongo has the inside track, obviously, but it you just go by how people are playing, Fleury is right there. He's playing great, been to the finals twice -- what more can a guy do? Every game he plays enhances his chances.

Kevin (Minneapolis)

I know we're only one week or so into the season, but looking at the Western Conference standings right now is almost comical. What has been the biggest surprise (for better or for worse) early on this season?

Barry Melrose

  (3:04 PM)

Colorado. Most people thought this team was going to struggle...they were rebuilding and were going to play nothing but young guys, and here this team has been awesome. Colorado has been my story, but everything in the West seems positive...many teams are playing better than expected.

Jason (Maryland)

Are the Caps in a cold spell, or are they in real trouble?

Barry Melrose

  (3:05 PM)

They are exactly who we thought they were. They are a talented offensive team with questions in goal and on defense. They will make the playoffs and score a ton of goals, but they did not address any problems this summer.

Gennadiy (new york)

hey barry, where do u pick the rangers to end this season ?

Barry Melrose

  (3:06 PM)

I think the Rangers, if they have no injuries (especially Gaborik), I think they will be fighting with Washington and Pittsburgh for tops overall in the East.

Brian (Michigan)

Has the Red Wing era ended?

Barry Melrose

  (3:07 PM)

To a certain extent, because the last ten years, they've come into the season as the best team in the West, but it's not proven that they are yet. They will make the playoffs and won't be a team people will want to play, but especially with the injury to Franzen, they won't be first overall.

Scott (Tampa)

What are your initial thoughts on the early season success of the Sabres? Looks like Lindy has them playing motivated, disciplined hockey. Miller looks sharp as does Tyler Myers.

Barry Melrose

  (3:08 PM)

I agree. Myers has looked awesome. He looks like sort of a skilled Chara. He has monstrous size, reach, and is a great skater. It looks like a lot of the guys who struggled last year are rebounding. Miller is having a great year and has some added motivation. They are a skilled team that is pulling together and playing well. They should make the playoffs with their talent level and goaltending.

Ross (The Heart of Columbus!)

Hey Barry how do you think the Blue Jackets are gonna pan out this year? They are off to a good start, can they keep it rolling?

Barry Melrose

  (3:09 PM)

They made the playoffs last year, and they are better this year than they were last year. Mason has not missed a beat in net. Nash is looking great also. This team looks excellent. They are playing a great style and the goaltending is looking very solid. Right now, Columbus looks as good as any team in the West.

Loup (DC)

The Coyotes have been rock solid on defense and in goal, pitching 2 shutouts and not allowing more than 3 goals in any game, how can they find their game offensivly?

Barry Melrose

  (3:11 PM)

They have to hope that their young stars heat up offensively. Some of their young guys in the minors need to really take off...forwards they've drafted in the first five picks. But the good thing is, if you don't give up much, you don't need much to score.

John (Syracuse)

What about the Montreal Canadiens? What do you expect from them this year?

Barry Melrose

  (3:12 PM)

I wasn't a big booster at the start of the season. The injury to Markov is huge. Price has not proven to me that he is an elite NHL player. They are very small. They do have some skill up front. Defensively, they are not that great. I don't think they are as good as they were last year, so I don't see them as a playoff team.

Sitiani (Pittsburgh)

More likely to keep up their hot start - NY Rangers or Buffalo Sabres?

Barry Melrose

  (3:13 PM)

The Rangers, because of their goaltending and defensive play. They are a more solid team than Buffalo. I can't see them going into a six- or seven-game losing streak either.

Chris (Boulder, CO)

What do you think has been the main factor in the surprising start for the Avs this year? It seems like Craig Anderson has been a huge part it so far.

Barry Melrose

  (3:14 PM)

Goaltending. That was their Achilles heel last year. Anderson has made the saves he should. He doesn't need to be spectacular...just stop the ones you should. The kids up front are playing great. They are a really hardworking team that is starting to believe in themselves.

Scott (Orlando)

The departure of Bouwmeester has immediately taken effect on the Panthers. Vokoun can't handle all of the shots. From what you've seen, do you think Kulikov can fill Bouwmeeter's skates within due time?

Barry Melrose

  (3:15 PM)

No. I think Florida is in trouble. They still have a veteran defense, and that's gotta take over. Vokoun has to be better. It's a tough time for Florida. They have to really play solid hockey. Everyone has to be playing well. Everyone has to go in the same direction for them to make the playoffs. That's tough when you lose your best player and don't get anything back for him.

John (Syracuse)

What's wrong with the Malple Leafs? All that money spent to get "bigger" hasn't proven for much so far? Do you still think they are legit?

Barry Melrose

  (3:17 PM)

They are a funny team. They spent a lot of money on defensemen and picked up three very good ones, but they're terrible defensively. Goaltending has been erratic. We knew they weren't going to score many goals, but they are a mental and physical mess that takes way too many penalties. They could lose four or five in a row and cost Ronnie Wilson his job. This is the worst team in the NHL right now.

Mike (Jersey)

Is the goaltending situation in Chicago going to cost them a legitimate chance at the Cup this year?

Barry Melrose

  (3:18 PM)

That's their question mark. They've won three in a row with Antti Niemi, which is a good sign.

Josh (St. Louis, MO)

The Blues are notorious for slow starts, and after two home losses are on the road tonight against the surprising Coyotes. Do you think the Blues can carry their momentum over from last year and make a postseason appearance again this year with all their young talent?

Barry Melrose

  (3:19 PM)

They made the playoffs last year and added Paul Kariya, which I think makes them a playoff team. Coming home off that trip is tough. I think they will get things turned around pretty quickly.

gary (new york)

Can gaborik beat ovie for the scoring title ?

Barry Melrose

  (3:20 PM)

I don't think so. The Rangers offense isn't quite as strong as the Washington offensive system. Ovechkin is playing with better offensive players night in and night out. With their talent level, Ovechkin will score more goals than Gaborik this year.

Jared (Sacramento, CA)

What are the chances Gonchar re-signs with the Penguins? and if not, how drastically will the defensive (and power play) be affected?

Barry Melrose

  (3:22 PM)

I think Gonchar wants to stay in Pittsburgh. He would probably take less money, but it's all about the salary cap. Pittsburgh needs to be able to fit him in the salary cap. Even though both parties want him to stay in Pittsburgh, it's all about how much is left in the cap.

brian (philadelphia)

over/under 200 PIM in the first Leafs vs. Flyers game

Barry Melrose

  (3:23 PM)

The Flyers have changed a bit. They don't take as many penalties as they used to. A team that might have a lot of fights with Toronto is Tampa.

paul (denver)

Any rumblings that you are hearing from the league or the players that the game is falling quickly back into the trap and hold style that killed the early part of this decade? Players adjusting to the officiating? Clubs changing style? Officials becoming lazier with the clutching? What do you see/hear?

Barry Melrose

  (3:24 PM)

I don't think so. if you look at the amount of goals scored, it seems like every night teams are coming back from five goals down. The NHL is smart enough to make sure it never goes back to that era. Nobody wants to go back to that.

Matt (Boston)

Green or Semin, who would you keep and who would trade. I'm not sure they understand what it takes to really win. So talented but so careless at the same time.

Barry Melrose

  (3:25 PM)

I would keep Green. You have to have the defenseman who can run the point and power play. You saw how it affected Washington when it did not play well int he playoffs. He's a unique player who does something no one else can do.

CC (Atlanta)

Am I crazy to be excited about the Thrashers? We have 3 lines that can score and a solid top 4 D rotation. If we get just decent goaltending from Pavelec (Lehtonen is a lost cause) we could make some noise. Agree/disagree?

Barry Melrose

  (3:26 PM)

You should be excited about Atlanta. Their young players are maturing, and I really think Johnny Anderson, who is a friend of mine, did well last year. It'll come down to what they do with Kovalchuck at the trade deadline.

CJ (Denver, CO)

Is Matt Duchene ready to explode? Do you think when he finally gets that first goal things are just going to open up (even more) for him?

Barry Melrose

  (3:27 PM)

I think so. I love how quick he is and how hard he plays. He could easily have five goals this season, and when he gets his first one, they could come quickly.

Nick (Pittsburgh, PA)

The Penguins look hot out of the gate. Can they keep this pace for 82 games?

Barry Melrose

  (3:29 PM)

They won't keep this pace up, but that means they wouldn't lose on the road. Fleury looks great, their defense is young and good. Scuderi is playing well, they're getting scoring from their other lines...no reason why they can't keep being the best team in the East.

Barry Melrose

  (3:29 PM)

There are some big games coming up...we'll see Dallas play against Boston tonight...every night we have great matchups, which is why we all love hockey. Talk to you next week!

Pierre LeBrun

  (3:34 PM)

Hey everybody. I'm taking over from the coach now. Good to be back.Let's get it on

Brian (Chicago)

Hi Pierre,Of all the surprise or breakout teams this year, which one or few do you think presents the most threats to make a real run at it?I've always loved your columns, Brian

Pierre LeBrun

  (3:36 PM)

Thanks Brian.The L.A. Kings have been the surprise/breakout team I've been touting since August. I love what Dean Lombardi has done in terms of his patient draft and developing and then adding two veterean pieces in Smyth and Scuderi. I think they can make the playoffs. In the East, I predicted the Sabres would finish fifth which gathering from looking at most other predictions, is somewhat of a surprise. But i love the makeup of that team and key injuries to Vanek and Miller are the only reason they missed out last year

Michael (Salt Lake City, UT)

After last night's dramatic game against the Flames, many Hawks fans are talking about how bad our goal tending is but is there really a market for a solid number one goaltender out there for the Hawks?

Pierre LeBrun

  (3:39 PM)

Michael, goaltending is definitely the lone question mark on the Hawks. They've got everytyhing else. But Huet has yet to really show other than parts of one year in Montreal that he's really a number one guy. Problem is, he makes $5.625 million a year _ and for two more seasons after this season. Impossible to move him.The Hawks are right up agains the cap so it's hard for them to do anything at this juncture. Perhaps at the trade deadline when there's a little more cap flexibility (the longer the season goes, the lower the cap hit is for players) the Hawks can look at something.Tomas Vokoun in Florida and J.S. Giguere in Anaheim should be trade bait this year but both also have big money left...

Joel (Sweden)

Will the Boston Bruins be the Ottawa Senators from 2 seasons ago?Or will they manage to turn around and play like most of us thought they would?

Pierre LeBrun

  (3:41 PM)

Joel, thanks for joining in from Sweden ! Great country, was there last year for Pens-Sens.As for the Bruins, I do think they'll take a bit of a step backwards this year but may still win the Northeast Division. I spoke with Claude Julien yesterday and he seemed pretty confident that they would iron out their issues. The team remains very talented but needs to get over itself and realize last year doesn't matter

Evan ((PGH))

Marc Andre Fleury is looking phenomenal between the pipes so far this season. Why is he not even mentioned in the same breath as Brodeur and Luongo when it comes to a bid on the Canadian Olympic team?

Pierre LeBrun

  (3:42 PM)

Well Even, obviously you didn't take notice of our coverage at the Canadian Olympic camp in August. I worte a column on the goalies and aske that very question and my colleague Scott Burnside has been championing Fleury's name for the Olympic job... We're doing our part !!!Also, check out the LeBrun/Burnside faceoff video on Friday. We ask that very question as well.

Tyler (Tucson AZ)

Michael Nylander's situation in Washington is nothing short of awkward. Any chance GM GM will move him some time soon?

Pierre LeBrun

  (3:43 PM)

Last I heard last weekend, I had a note on my notebook on this, was that the Caps continue to try and get him loaned to a team in Russia... but they don't want to have to pay his entire salary... waiting for a team in Russia to step with at least some salary commitment

brian (ohio)

Will the wings make any moves since Franzen got hurt? And if not, how much trouble will they be in?

Pierre LeBrun

  (3:45 PM)

Brian, traditionall most NHL GMs wait until U.S. Thanksgiving (our Cdn Thanksgiving was last weekend) to take stock for their teams before the phone calls start between GMs. I suspect the Wings will be patient this way as well.

Mike H (Detroit)

I know it is still way to early to tell, but as seen so far, who do you think will win the rookie of the year award?

Pierre LeBrun

  (3:46 PM)

Hard to say this early Mike but obviously Tavares is off to a torrid start. No surprise there. I saw Matt Duchene play this week in Toronto and I came away thoroughly impressed. The kid is ultra fast. Great vision already at 18. He's on the top PP and centers the second line. He may challenge Tavares.

Joel (Orange County, CA)

Will the Avs keep both O'reilly and Duchene all season? They both have been excellent (despite Duchene having a 0 in the goal dept).

Pierre LeBrun

  (3:47 PM)

I tried to find that out from the Avs on Tuesday here in Toronto but to no avail... so I'd be guessing like you. I think Duchene stays for sure. But you know, O'Reilly is very responsible defensively which will help his case. He's on the top PK pair right now which is unheard of for an 18-year-old

John (NY)

Do you think that this Rangers team will be any different then last years team that started off hot and then slumped the rest of the season?

Pierre LeBrun

  (3:49 PM)

This is a different team because Torts has had them from Day 1 this year. They are playing a much more aggressive style. As long as Gabby stays healthy, they're playoff-bound for sure and perhaps more

Mike (State College, PA)

Who should I start tonight for my fantasy team: Patrick Kane, Mike Knuble, and/or Alexander Semin?

Pierre LeBrun

  (3:50 PM)

Kane and Semin

Zach M. (South Carolina)

Even though Dany Heatly has been off to a great start, do you believe that the Sharks still need that missing piece to contend for a cup or is he it?

Pierre LeBrun

  (3:51 PM)

On paper, this team has it all. On paper...

Lance (Detroit)

Is this the year the salary cap era hits the detroit red wings and knocks them down to a team that struggles to make the playoffs?

Pierre LeBrun

  (3:52 PM)

They'll continue to be a force but just not quite as much... the off-season defections hit hard and then losing Franzen to injury hurt as well... I picked Chicago to win the division

Loup (DC)

How about my Coyotes? Shutouts against 2 of the top 3 offenses already, rock solid defense. A little lacking in the goal dept lately, but that will come. Does anyone want to revise their "Last in the NHL" prediction?

Pierre LeBrun

  (3:54 PM)

Well, I picked Colorado to finish last and they're making me look bad right now :)I remember talking to Coyotes captain Shane Doan an two things he said to me stayed in my mind:1. He said they weren't nearly as bad as everyone thought and people would be eating their words;2. He said the players were motivated by the whole ownership saga. It's the old ``Us vs. the World" thing.

tRiL (cHICAGO)

Who do u think will win tonights game Colorado or Montreal

Pierre LeBrun

  (3:55 PM)

Home opener.Gotta go with ``Le Club de Hockey Le Canadien de Montreal."

CC (Atlanta)

Why does Atlanta have an entire week b/ games??? We've only played 3 games! This scheduling is atrocious... takes away from the excitement of the start of the season. It's not like the Thrashers played in Europe.

Pierre LeBrun

  (3:56 PM)

It is bizarre but not unique. The Maple Leafs are now in a stretch where they play only one game (Saturday vs. the rangers) in 11 days. Not good for a team under fire !

matt (damascus, md)

heard rumors about forsberg wanting to go to washington, and the caps also interested in him....any truth to that?

Pierre LeBrun

  (3:57 PM)

actually had a coffee with Forsberg's agent on Tuesday morning and he certainly didn't pass that on.... i think Wash has to figure out its cap dead weight in Nylander before being able to do anything

aaron f (chillville, chicago)

why are the hawks so so good?!

Pierre LeBrun

  (3:58 PM)

10 years of high draft picks :)

Jon (Boston)

How likely is it that the Bruins could have the #1 overall pick thanks to the Leafs? Who are the tops guys in the 2010 draft?

Pierre LeBrun

  (4:02 PM)

well the Leafs have 76 games to avoid that !!! hahathe top-rated prospect from most scouts is Windsor Spitfires center Taylor Hall. Spitfires teemmate Cam Fowler, a American defenseman, is also very much liked by scouts...

Robert (New York)

What's your take on Del Zotto. He's looked great so far is he finally the offensive dman that the Rangers have been looking for since the Brian Leetch departure?

Pierre LeBrun

  (4:03 PM)

Haven't seen him in person yet but from watching Center Ice, he's been impressive especially with the puck and on the power play. But would like to see him live to see his anticipation away from the play

jared (ny)

No one seems to be giving the NYR any respect as of yet. The Dubinsky, Gaborik, Propsal and Drury, Callhan, Higgins lines have just looked awesome. Why does everyone still think that A. The Rangers have no offensive firepower and B. Dubinsky is clearly not a #1 centerman?

Pierre LeBrun

  (4:04 PM)

Well I picked the Rangers to make the playoffs so not sure I'm part of your ``everyone"

John (NY)

How about Gaboricks goal last night? Is that as good a wrist shot as your gonna see?

Pierre LeBrun

  (4:04 PM)

Fantastic goal but one that beats Ersberg and not Quick in my humble O

jerry (toronto)

hey, should I be worried if ellis got pulled making no saves last night? i know there's a time share for now...

Pierre LeBrun

  (4:05 PM)

Haven't spoken to Barry Trotz yet this season but fromt he outside it appears he's waiting for one of those guys to get on a roll. Until then it's committee

Allen (Jersey Shore, PA)

Speaking of the Olympics, do any of the young stars for the Rangers (Dubinsky, Callahan, Staal) have a chance of playing in the 2010 games?

Pierre LeBrun

  (4:09 PM)

Callahan (USA) and Staal (Canada) were invited to their respective Olympic camps in August but Dubinsky (USA) was not, so that's not a good thing for the latter. Of the three, I think Callahan has the best shot because the American team is not as tough to crack and because Callahan has a nice tie-in with Tortorella the USA assistant coach. Staal is trying to crack a Team Canada blue-line that has competition like Weber, Keith, Boyle, Proner, Niedermayer, Phaneuf, Bouwmeester, etc..

Jack (Chicago)

Has the Blackhawks era began?

Pierre LeBrun

  (4:10 PM)

It began last spring when after covering a playoff game at the United Center I was forced to ride a rickshaw back downtown because I couldn't find a cab. That's when I knew the Hawks were back in Chicago :)

C.J. (Wisconsin)

Are the Colorado Avalanche just off to a (super) hot start, or is this more like what the team can do when it has a great goalie and can stay healthy?

Pierre LeBrun

  (4:11 PM)

Having Anderson is goal has certainly helped but I also think some of the kids, who have been awesome, will level off at some point. They won't make the playoffs but the future looks bright

CC (Atlanta)

Am I crazy to be excited about the Thrashers? We have 3 lines that can score and a solid top 4 D rotation. If we get just decent goaltending from Pavelec (Lehtonen is a lost cause) we could make some noise. Agree/disagree?

Pierre LeBrun

  (4:12 PM)

I agree. I love where this team is headed. Pavelec is the key _if he's for real then they ahve a shot at the playoffs.

David (dc)

Who do you think wil take tonights game between the Caps and sharks?

Pierre LeBrun

  (4:12 PM)

Caps 8, Sharks 7, decided by a 14-round shootout

Chazz Snyder (Salem OR)

What about the leading back in the pac 10 getting Heisman consideration?

Pierre LeBrun

  (4:13 PM)

ah.... no clue :)

Steve (Buffalo)

I realize we're only one week into the season, but which playoff team/contender from last year looks the most like they'll be hitting the golf course early in 2010?

Pierre LeBrun

  (4:14 PM)

I don't see Montreal making it again

Dave (Toronto)

Can't Burke convince MLSE to eat up Toskala's and Blake's contract and send both to the minors?

Pierre LeBrun

  (4:14 PM)

no question he can, if he chooses to go that route

Babz (Aiken, SC)

Alex Semin = Alex Kovalev at that age

Pierre LeBrun

  (4:15 PM)

so... that means he's good every other year?

Babz (Aiken, SC)

OK, maybe not 200 PIMs for the Flyers, but maybe 200 teeth marks. Why is nothing done about the biting the hand that facewashes?

Pierre LeBrun

  (4:15 PM)

league said they didn't have enough video evidence

Sergei (Pittsburgh)

Marc-Andre Fleury is 6-0-0 this season. What are his chances of winning the Vesina Trophy?

Pierre LeBrun

  (4:17 PM)

If you mean the Vezina Trophy, as opposed to Vesina (haha), I'm sure he'll be among the five or six goalies in the mix this year. Brodeur, Luongo, Ward, Lundqvist, Mason, Miller, Backstrom... lotsa great goalies !

Lee (Pittsburgh)

Fleury looks good so far, is he the leading candidate for Canada's goalie

Pierre LeBrun

  (4:20 PM)

Will be tough to break down the Brodeur/Luongo Team Canada tandem

Loup (DC)

Pierre, I think you owe the Coyotes an appology for picking them to finish next to last. 2 shutouts against 2 of the top 3 offenses, havn't allowed more than 3 goals in a game. They look great.

Pierre LeBrun

  (4:20 PM)

I apologize

ryan (ottawa)

why is crosby still so overrated? he didn't win finals mvp, and is not regarded too highly from other players as well, yet the media keeps pushing he's the best (maybe it's just canada). he's good, but come on...

Pierre LeBrun

  (4:21 PM)

Dude, retrace your steps and find your brain.He's not overrated. He's as good as advertised.

Mikko (Atlanta)

Pierre - you have the best team in ESPN's mock fantasy draft. What did you name your team?

Pierre LeBrun

  (4:23 PM)

I do? I honestly forgot I was in that mock draft.My real team is in a league with other media egomaniacs here in Toronto... And I'm only middle of the pack in that league... my team name is Red Light Racicot (former brutal Habs goalie, nicknamed by Hall of Fame hockey writer Michael Farber)

Nick (Pittsburgh, PA)

Pierre, are the Rangers a real threat to Pittsburgh in the East? The teams that were supposed to be seem to have shown weak spots early in the season so far.

Pierre LeBrun

  (4:23 PM)

predicted standings by yours turly for the Atlantic:1. Philly2. Pitt3. Rangers4. Devils5. isles

Mark (Buffalo)

Pierre, your thoughts on Tyler Myers? Is he the next Chris Pronger?

Pierre LeBrun

  (4:24 PM)

Obviously too early to tell and I've yet to see him play in person, which is always my rule before commenting... but you have to love what you've seen so far

Ryan (St. Louis, MO)

Hey Pierre, do you think bringing the "Kid Line" (Oshie, Perron, Berglund) back tonight for the matchup against Phoenix will spark something for the Blues?

Pierre LeBrun

  (4:25 PM)

yes I do ! They were great together last year. Oshie needs a big first half to make the U.S. Olympic team !

Rob (New Jersey)

Hi Pierre, Do you think ray emery will have a good year?

Pierre LeBrun

  (4:25 PM)

yeah I think he'll do fine. The question is, what about the playoffs????

Jamie (Whitehorse)

How long before Mike Milbury lays a beating on Al Strachan with his own shoe during one of the Hot Stove segments?

Pierre LeBrun

  (4:25 PM)

I just keep my head down and do my job on that segment :)

Pat (New York)

Did you ever lose any teeth in Binghamton?

Pierre LeBrun

  (4:26 PM)

Never played there :)

Pierre LeBrun

  (4:27 PM)

OK guys, I will now make way for my good friend Scott Burnside. Did you guys know he's responsible for inventing a great bar shot? He'll tell you all about it next....cheers and talk to you folks next week

Scott Burnside

  (4:29 PM)

So, where were we? Talk about big shoes to fill, following on the heels of my colleague Pierre LeBrun but I will do my humble best to hold up my end of the bargain. Onward.

Nick (Palo Alto, Ca)

Do you think the sharks will make it past the second round this year?

Scott Burnside

  (4:30 PM)

Nick: I do, indeed, believe this is the year the Sharks advance to a Western Conference final. I have them playing the Blackhawks but, in my crystal ball, that's where the road ends this year.

Will (Chicago)

what do you think will be the most exciting matchup tonight?

Scott Burnside

  (4:31 PM)

Will; San Jose/Washington.

Ilya (Russia)

All three Hart candidates from a year ago were Russians. How long must we wait before the NHL Premier Weekend is in Moscow and St. Petersburg? And NHL clubs can play KHL ones?

Scott Burnside

  (4:32 PM)

Ilya; When the KHL stops cherry picking NHL players and running roughshod over existing contracts. But I'm with you, I can't wait to make the trip to Moscow to watch the Caps and the Thrashers play a regular season game. Talk about drama.

Keith (H.)

I will pose that question to you then Scott. If you were building a cup winning team, what player would you choose to build around? and why?

Scott Burnside

  (4:33 PM)

Keith; I'll do my best. One player, has to be Sidney Crosby and I think he showed in the playoffs last year why; committed to winning, skilled, great role model, makes everyone around him better, he is a true franchise player. Honorable mention; Evgeni Malkin, Shea Weber, Steve Mason.

Chris (Knoxville, TN)

Any reaon that Jason Arnott to Montreal would help out either club?

Scott Burnside

  (4:34 PM)

Chris; Assuming the Predators want some offense back, you're right, it doesn't make any sense. Too early for teams to be dealing for the future at this stage.

Brendan (Massachusetts)

What do you think of Patrick Kane's play? Is that kid amazing or what?

Scott Burnside

  (4:36 PM)

Brendan; I wondered after all of the off-season intrigue surrounding Kane whether he would suffer from a slow start. That's obviously not a concern and as he fills out and becomes more mature, physically and emotionally, he's going to get even better.

Brad (Bristol,CT)

Scott, Where would you rank Steve Valiquette among NHL backups? I think he's better than the ice time he gets playing behind Henrik Lundqvist.

Scott Burnside

  (4:37 PM)

Brad; Funny how you never think of back-ups until you really need them like the Wings and Pens did with Ty Conklin the last two years and when Scott Clemmensen bailed out the Devils a year ago. It's hard to judge Valiquette because he plays so rarely. The Rangers hope they don't have to put him to the test, though, and until he gets regular playing time it'll be hard to assess just how good a tender he is.

Douglas (WVU)

How much will Daniel's absence hurt Henrik in vancouver? If Henrik plays well without his bro, will we possibly see 2 different Sedin lines when daniel returns? It would sure help spread out the scoring...

Scott Burnside

  (4:39 PM)

Douglas; Great question and it's going to bear watching as Henrik plays without his brother for the first extended period of his/their NHL careers. The knock on them has been the belief, fair or not, that they can't play with anyone but each other. This stretch of time may put the lie to that. Or not.

Bill (Pasadena, CA.)

Do you think the Kings are going to be able to resign Frolov, or do they trade him to try and get something in return?

Scott Burnside

  (4:41 PM)

Bill; I think Dean Lombardi will try and re-sign Frolov but if he can't I would be surprised if he tried to move him at the deadline if the Kings are in the hunt for a playoff berth. Unless he can trade him for a postion player it wouldn't be worth the risk. If he walks after the Kings make the playoffs, that'll be a lot easier to take than trading him and missing the playoffs altogether.

Kyle McEntire (Springfield,MO)

What unknown player has had the best start to their season?

Scott Burnside

  (4:43 PM)

Kyle; I don't know if they're unknown but Matt Carle, cast off from Tampa a year ago, has been dynamite for the Flyers and leads all defensemen in points. And how about Vaclav Prospal, an afterthought signing in New York who has 10 points?

Scott (Columbus)

With Mike Commodore and Jan Hejda now out on IR, can the Blue Jackets hang on defensively til they return?

Scott Burnside

  (4:44 PM)

Scott; Good question. Jan Hejda doesn't have much of a profile outside Columbus but he's been key to their stability along the blue line. Eats a ton of minutes, makes few mistakes, a real stabilizing force there. Take two top six defenders out and it's going to stretch the rest of the blue line pretty thin.

DeAndre (South Central LA)

Yes, I live in South Central and I love Hockey. What if anything can help the Caps break their slump?

Scott Burnside

  (4:45 PM)

DeAndre; Had a chance to talk to Bruce Boudreau yesterday and he thinks they're close. Fewer ill-advised penalties, more of a killer instinct, maybe a little more balance in scoring (you'll notice Brendan Morrison will center Ovechkin/Knuble tonight) would help.

Vince (Wenatchee)

Could you please type a little faster!

Scott Burnside

  (4:46 PM)

Vince; Doing the best I can. I need to get another coffee in me.

Peter (Pittsburgh, PA)

Scott can you please comment on the Jaromir Jagr rumors going around about playing in Pittsburgh again?

Scott Burnside

  (4:48 PM)

Peter; I haven't checked in awhile with Jagr's people (okay, his agents) but he's locked in for the balance of this season unless he doesn't get paid or there's some agreement reached to let him out of his deal. But after this year my understanding is he would be clear to sign in which case if money's not the object then a return to Pittsburgh could be in the cards. If he wants to come back to the NHL for another big payday, however, no way Pittsburgh could fit him in. Fun to think of him with Malkin and/or Crosby, though, isn't it?

Elisabeth (CT)

Do you think somewhere down the line the Bruins will want to acquire the goal scoring they lost when Kessell went to Toronto? Hard to replace all those goals and Savard was Kovvie's centerman in Atlanta once upon a time...could really help them.

Scott Burnside

  (4:50 PM)

Elisabeth; Good point. I still think the Thrashers will get a deal done with Kovalchuk. If not, though, the Bruins might be one team willing to cough up to acquire Kovalchuk even if just for a rental as opposed to a long-term deal. GM Peter Chiarelli certainly will some assets to dangle what with a possible first overall draft pick courtesy of the Leafs and the Kessel deal.

Jerry (Texas)

Any chance Brad Richards sneaks his way onto Team Canada?

Scott Burnside

  (4:51 PM)

Jerry; Big fan of Brad Richards and his play so far has been terrific. He's a former Olympian, and playoff MVP which will be attractive to Steve Yzerman et al. Problem for Richards is that he plays center and the Canadians have a boatload of them already. He'll have to continue to really light it up to get a sniff I think.

Alex (Washington, DC)

Scotty, can we finally proclaim the Rangers' power play problems over? Please say yes...

Scott Burnside

  (4:52 PM)

Alex; I think that's a given. Who knew it was going to take a teenager running the PP on the blue line to do it (Michael Del Zotto of course).

joe (frederick, md)

its funny u didnt mention OV to build around, crosby an overated, injury prone crybaby,, couldnt even stay in game 7 fully and hes a captain? and OV who not only engergizes his whole team but the arena when he plays, back to back MVP, leading goal scorer year after year and destoys players with his physical play that crosby could only dream about.....players around the nhl dont respect crosby like they do OV, you hear about players wanting to play with OV but not so much with crosby

Scott Burnside

  (4:53 PM)

joe: All good points. Until Ovechkin can get his team out of the second round, though, hard to argue the merits of #87. What was it Al Davis said, just win Ovie.

Kevin (St. Louis)

Are the Blues going to have a better season than they did last year?

Scott Burnside

  (4:54 PM)

Kevin; That's a tough one. I liked them to take another step forward and there's no reason, if they stay healthy, they shouldn't. But there's something about playing with expectation that can retard a team's progress. I still think they're a playoff team and will push Chicago and Detroit at the top of the Central Division standings.

B-Diddy (Munstoeville, WYO)

Who has more points this year, Ryan Smyth or Wojtek Wolski?

Scott Burnside

  (4:56 PM)

B-Diddy; Hmmm. Good one. Smyth. As much as the Avs have been a great early story don't see them maintaining that level of play throughout. The Kings? More likely.

Rob (Oklahoma City)

Scott, which goaltender do you think that the blackhawks should make a trade for since Huet nor Niemi has looked good so far?

Scott Burnside

  (4:58 PM)

Rob; The 'Hawks will be limited in what they can do cap-wise but at some point if Rick DiPietro continues his rehab on pace the Isles will be looking to move someone, likely Martin Biron. The Thrashers may be in the market to move Kari Lehtonen if Ondrej Pavelec fulfills his promise. Marty Turco will be an unrestricted free agent next summer but if the Stars keep winning they'll be hanging onto him. I think the 'Hawks are going to have to rely on an internal answer for their goaltending question.

bob (wasington, d.c.)

did you ask bruce boudreau if they planned to just let nylander rot up in the press box this year? or are they going to give him a chance to play?

Scott Burnside

  (4:59 PM)

bob; Didn't ask but didn't think I needed to. I'm surprised they haven't moved one of this big old vibrating armchairs up there for Mr. Nylander. He should have stuck with the Oilers when he agreed to play there. What goes around comes around.

Paul Sorensen ((Norton Shores, Mi))

Hey Scott, Do you think the Red Wings can make it all the way back to the Stanley cup Finales again this year and win the Cup again!!!

Scott Burnside

  (5:00 PM)

Paul; Sorry. Not this year.

chad (buffalo)

Do you think Lalime is a capable backup to Miller?

Scott Burnside

  (5:00 PM)

Chad; He is a capable back-up. Just hope that Miller stays healthy.

rob (alaska)

who do you think will win the friday night matchup between calgary and vancouver?

Scott Burnside

  (5:01 PM)

Rob; That's a good one. Both teams off the rails a bit, the Canucks working through some injury issues and the Flames starting to look like the Flames of the second half of last season. Canucks in OT.

Chris (Greenville, NC)

As a transplant Leafs fan, I'm even more depressed because I'm away from all the other fans to chat with, so I ask you: are we really THIS bad?? We have been outplayed in every game since Montreal, it's pathetic

Scott Burnside

  (5:02 PM)

Chris; I feel your pain. Actually, not really. But lots of Leaf fans do. And yes, they are that bad. In fact not even close right now as to which team is the worst on the circuit. It will be interesting to see when/if Gustavsson comes back next week if that somehow sparks the mighty Leafs into more inspired play.

Sean M (Los Angeles, Ca)

What is the missing piece for the Kings?

Scott Burnside

  (5:03 PM)

Sean; Not sure there is one right now. As long as the goaltending holds up and they get balanced scoring - and they should - they might not be missing much other than the experience of being in the playoffs and learning to win there.

Ryan (Washington D.C)

Scott, Will the New York Islanders ever get Rick Dipetro back to 100 percent? and do you think Tim Thomas will be USA starting goaltender in Vancouver?

Scott Burnside

  (5:05 PM)

Ryan; History suggests No to your DiPietro question. And Thomas will have to turn his game around in the next two months if he wants that starting job. I still think it's he and Ryan Miller to start the tournament but Craig Anderson and Jonathan Quick are going to make that decision more difficult if they continue their strong play and the Bruins continue to falter.

Lee (Phoenix)

The Coyotes have been playing well as of late. Any chance they make the playoffs with Tippet now coaching?

Scott Burnside

  (5:07 PM)

Lee; It's a little early to think playoffs even though I think Dave Tippett is among the finer NHL coaches. Remember a year ago the Coyotes were a playoff team until the all-star break. Tippett is getting good defense and good to great goaltending but offense is still a struggle. That's the kind of thing that will kill you in the middle of the season when your team can't scrape out 2-1 and 3-2 victories. You can bet the NHL is cheering for the 'Yotes, though.

Tony (New Jersey)

Does Gaborik have the quickest hands in hockey?

Scott Burnside

  (5:08 PM)

Tony; He just might. Pretty nice goal Wednesday night to give the Rangers some much-needed insurance.

Connor (J-Ville, NC)

I've seen a lot of love for Fluery for Candian Olympic goaltender. What about Cam Ward, the game who battled him in the great game last night? He seems just as qualified as Fluery and the other two leading contenders.

Scott Burnside

  (5:10 PM)

Connor; Agreed that Cam Ward has a resume worthy of consideration. I still think most folks automatically pencil Roberto Luongo and Martin Brodeur into the 1 and 2 slots on the Canadian Olympic team - not sure that's the right thinking but it is what it is - and that leaves two Stanley Cup winning goaltenders battling for the third spot. If I had to start the Olympics tomorrow I'd have Fluery as my starter and Cam Ward would be on my roster.

tom (hackensack)

i hear patrick elias is on pace for a return this month....what type of year do you see him having? good enough to put the devils in the equation? they havent been getting much love.....

Scott Burnside

  (5:12 PM)

tom; I'm as guilty as the next guy of ignoring the Devils' chances. At some point not having much in the way of offense is going to catch up with them. I mean, isn't it? Having Elias back will be nice for Jacques Lemaire and the boys although they still seem to find a way to sneak away with wins at a regular pace.

Shawn (Chambersburg)

Who wins tonight? Sharks v. Caps

Scott Burnside

  (5:12 PM)

Shawn; Caps 4 Sharks 3 Shootout.

your name Garrett (Bethlehem, Pa.)

Scott, I'm a big Sabres fan and the team has been looking great so far, specifically Tyler Meyers and his great start.

Scott Burnside

  (5:15 PM)

Garrett; Could Myers be taller? And from Houston to boot. After the hurting the Sabres put on the Wings the other night people are starting to take note again. Missing Thomas Vanek, regardless of how long he's out, will bring back bad memories of last season, but perhaps the leadership group the team has been waiting for is finally maturing and will take the Sabres back into the post-season.

Andy (Palo Alto, CA)

While Nabokov has looked better in the last game or two, do you think he has passed his prime and who do you think Wilson should be looking to pick up at the deadline or in the offseason?

Scott Burnside

  (5:17 PM)

Andy; That's an interesting question. Hard to know whether the failures in the past come playoff time have been a lack of clutch goaltending or lack of clutch team play. But there's no doubt much more has been expected of Nabokov than he's delivered. And right now there really isn't a Plan B in place.

Scott (Miami)

Can I get some thoguht on the state of the Panthers. Why can't we score goals year after year?

Scott Burnside

  (5:18 PM)

Scott; I liked the Panthers to take a step forward this season even without Jay Bouwmeester and make the playoffs. Could still happen but at some point guys like Nathan Horton (he just scored his first goal of the season), Stephen Weiss and the rest are going to have to seize the moment. Great coaching, decent enough goaltending, solid blue line. Still, early on anyway, it looks like the same old Cats.

Liz (Boston)

I feel like with all the strong starts (NYR, PIT, CO, etc) and some faltering ones (Boston, WASH, etc) a lot of articles aren't taking into consideration that only a few games have been played. Why is that? Can 6 games really predict the rest of the season?

Scott Burnside

  (5:20 PM)

Liz; Great point. It's always like this, though, as the anticipation of the start of the season leads to over-analyzing the results of the first few weeks. Still, we've seen how difficult it is for teams to get out of holes they dig themselves early. Think about St. Louis and how they had to go on a super-human roll through the second half last year to make the playoffs. Florida was a great team the last two-thirds of the season and still couldn't undo the damage done the first two months.

Jason (Dallas)

Dallas has played better than their 2-0-3 record says. How do you like their chances to make the playoffs?

Scott Burnside

  (5:22 PM)

Jason; If they can keep this up (being unbeaten) they're in. Just kidding. The Stars have surprised, though, especially defensively where I thought they might take a step back. I still think they're a bubble team but they're certainly exceeding expectations. Nice start for James Neal which is nice to see.

Matt (Phoenix)

Scott, How can you say Bryzgalov is good to great when he is the top goalie in the league. Leads the league in shutouts, is 3rd in GAA at .96 and have a Sv% of 96 how is this good to great.. this is Fantastic if he keeps it up he has Vezina written all over it

Scott Burnside

  (5:23 PM)

Matt; Fair point. I guess I just think about all those times I've seen Bryzgalov follow up good/great play with days of meandering, mediocre play.

randy (nj)

what, exactly, do the devils lack on offense? can improved play by brian rolston, david clarkson, and rookie nick bergfors really not make up the 20 goals lost by gionta? you should also know that so far rob niedermayer is playing far better john madden did at any point last year.

Scott Burnside

  (5:25 PM)

randy; I agree the play of Rob Niedermayer has been a pleasant surprise. As for the kids, I question whether they can keep their level of production up over the course of the season.

Jason (Prior Lake, MN)

Is it time to panics yet in Minnesota? Do you see Minny competeing for the last spot in the West?

Scott Burnside

  (5:26 PM)

Jason; When you say the last spot in the West do you mean 15th? If so, yes, I see them competing strongly for that place. As for the playoffs with Martin Havlat out, Petr Sykora out and no meaningful offensive depth I see trouble ahead in the State of Hockey.

KRIS (DETROIT)

WHAT ARE YOUR THOUGHTS ABOUT DETROIT SIGNING KOVALCHUK AFTER THIS YEAR? WHAT DO YOU THINK THEY WILL DO TO FREE AGENT WISE?

Scott Burnside

  (5:27 PM)

Kris; Hard to imagine GM Ken Holland will have room cap-wise to sign Kovalchuk long-term. Unless he's willing to do a Hossa-like experiment, sign for one year and hope to win a Cup, I don't see it.

eric (baltimore)

You can't be that dumb Scott. It's Ovechkin's fault that Fleury and that defense are better then what Was has?

Scott Burnside

  (5:29 PM)

eric; I may be that dumb. But how else to assess a top player's ability to lead? Crosby's goal production from '08 to '09 in the playoffs suggests a player taking his game to another level. Ovechkin, who had a chance to put his team ahead in Game 7 against Pittsburgh and didn't, hasn't got there. Doesn't make him a bad player - obviously - but it is what it is, no?

josh (denver)

who has been the most impressive rookie so far?

Scott Burnside

  (5:31 PM)

Josh; I think there have been quite a few but a few dark horses include Michael Del Zotto, Jamie Benn in Dallas, Davis Drewisek in L.A.

Scott Burnside

  (5:32 PM)

Okay folks. Stick around for game night. Catch you then.