ESPN

Buzzmaster

  (4:40 PM)

We'll have our Thursday Night Hockey chat starting at 3 p.m. ET!

Barry Melrose

  (3:03 PM)

Some great games last night. The Colorado/Calgary was great. The Avalanche win again on the road--fantastic start to the season for them.

Jason (Ellicott City, MD)

Will the Capitals learn to defend better or are they going to be a good team and not a great team? The goaltending also worries me.

Barry Melrose

  (3:04 PM)

That's their Achilles Heel. So far this season, it's the same as it was last year. They will score a ton of goals, but it's going to be hard to believe that they'll beat Pittsburgh or Philadelphia.

Brendan (Massachusetts)

What's the latest on David Booth? Florida needs help badly.

Barry Melrose

  (3:05 PM)

Obviously he got a concussion--he was knocked cold. They are very careful with injuries to the head. He could be back in a week or he could be back in a year...that's how serious those injuries are. There's no set timetable for him.

Jon (Fort Collins, CO)

Following the Av's incredible start, do you see the winning lasting or are they just having a good run for now?

Barry Melrose

  (3:06 PM)

They're having an unbelievable run. I can't see them continuing at this pace, but they are a good hockey team with great goaltending, and I can't see them going into a prolonged slump.

Sean (Buffalo)

Now that it's official that Tyler Myers is staying in Buffalo, what is your out look on the sabres' season?

Barry Melrose

  (3:07 PM)

The Sabres are a lot like Colorado. They're just having an unbelievable start to their season. Miller has been great in net and they're scoring a lot, which is a great recipe. I can't ever see this team losing 5, 6, 7 games in a row.

Barry (Tucson)

Although their record isnt impressive, the Isles have points in 7 of their first 11 games. Is this a good sign of things to come?

Barry Melrose

  (3:08 PM)

It's a great sign of things to come. All their young players are playing well. Tavares is scoring just about every game and their goaltending is solid. If I'm an Islander fan, I would be very excited.

Jesse S. (Carmel, NY)

Even though they are injured, both Talbot and Gonchar have been practicing with the Pens wearing the red "no contact" sweater? And Talbot has been making the road trips, presumably just to hang out. Are these actions common among injured players or a testament to how tight of a group the Pens are?

Barry Melrose

  (3:09 PM)

Talbot's a very big part of that team. Everybody admits that. The coaches love to have Talbot around the guys. When you're skating and practicing, even with non-contact jerseys on, that is a very good sign, injury-wise.

Eric Godard (Pittsburgh, PA)

Did you all see the pictures of me dressed up as a Care Bear at practice for Halloween? What are your thoughts on NHL enforcers wearing fuzzy suits, either on the ice or off?

Barry Melrose

  (3:10 PM)

The tough guys are always the funniest and best-liked on the team, so that doesn't surprise me at all. You're always looking to loosen things up in a long season, and when you're playing as well as the Penguins, it's easy to have fun.

Joshua (St. Louis)

Should St. Louis fans worry about the possible "goalie war" between Chris Mason and Ty Conklin?

Barry Melrose

  (3:11 PM)

Not if they're having a war because they're both playing well. You should be worried if they're having a battle because neither one is playing well. Mason was unbelievable last season, probably the main reason why they made the playoffs.

Brett (Detroit)

Barry, Since the start of the season the Red Wings have been off to a slow slow start. Each line practically has a new face on it and will take some time to gel. With the makeup of the Central and the tough West. Conf., where do you expect the Wings to be at the end of the reg. season?

Barry Melrose

  (3:12 PM)

They'll make the playoffs. They had a big win last night against Vancouver. That's a great start. They are playing better as of late, but they are not the Red Wings of the last ten years. Teams aren't scared of them and they're not the powerhouse in the West anymore.

mike (LA)

Were you surprised that frolov wasn't put in the shootout last night?

Barry Melrose

  (3:13 PM)

The shootout is a different animal. Certain guys are much better in the shootout than during games. Other great offensive players are not great at shootouts. It comes down to who the coach believes in. It's not always the great offensive players in your top three shooters.

Doug (Maine)

Whats wrong with the Rangers?

Barry Melrose

  (3:14 PM)

They lost their last game without Gaborik in the lineup. People saw how much of a difference he makes in the lineup. With Gaborik, they are a very good team, but they will have trouble scoring without him.

Craig G. (Fairfield, California)

Hey Barry, I love your insight and the podcasts. How long do you see the Kings sustaining their current top-flight form?

Barry Melrose

  (3:15 PM)

A lot depends on their goaltending. They've been looking for a goaltender for the last ten years and it seems like they've found one. The teams improving are all getting goaltending. They have a lot of firepower and I think they are for real, and will make the playoffs in the West.

Jason (Ellicott City, MD)

Who is your pick to win the Olympics?

Barry Melrose

  (3:16 PM)

Canada's gotta be favored. It's in Vancouver and they will have an unbelievable team. Canada and Russia are probably the two favorites.

Joe (Central Pennsylvania)

Do you think the Habs will be in the playoffs this year?

Barry Melrose

  (3:17 PM)

The East will be tough. There will be a lot of teams close. Two or three teams will miss by a couple points. Lots of teams very close together. Montreal will make or miss the playoffs by only a few points.

Joe (MN)

Will the Wild trade Harding at some point this year?

Barry Melrose

  (3:18 PM)

I don't think they want to, but the Wild are a mess. If things continue the way it is, they'll say, we're in a rebuilding mode and they'll move some players. Right now the Wild are probably the worst team in the West. I think they'll move some veterans as the season goes on.

Ryan (Pittsburgh)

Who are your three goalies for Team Canada?

Barry Melrose

  (3:19 PM)

I think the three will probably be Luongo, Brodeur, and Fleury, but if you went just by how players are playing right now, you'd add Mason.

Matt (CHinatown)

How good is Ryan O'Reilly? he looks like a Selke finalist, and soon

Barry Melrose

  (3:20 PM)

Which Chinatown? Every city has one! O'Reilly has been unbelievable. He's been in the tops in points for all players, not just rookies. He's been in a ton of key situations for Colorado and is an unbelievable story.

Jason (Ellicott City, MD)

Best goaltender in the shootout?

Barry Melrose

  (3:22 PM)

That's a good question. I don't have the stats in front of me, but Fleury has been doing well in shootouts. If I'm in a shootout, I'd like big goalies that are mobile, though Tim Thomas is good as well.

Loup (DC)

Hey Barry, how about my Coyotes? Think they get the best of St Louis tonight?

Barry Melrose

  (3:23 PM)

Coyotes are playing good. St. Louis played very well last game against Carolina, but they're not all that good. You keep expecting the Coyotes to struggle, but if Bryzgalov keeps playing like he does, they'll be tough to beat.

Al (Cincinnati)

When does Patrick Kane become a free agent? Do you think there is any chance he will go home and play in Buffalo?

Barry Melrose

  (3:24 PM)

Chicago won't let him go anywhere. I think you can become a free agent after seven years, so it'd be around 25 for him. It's a few years yet. He and Toews will be the building blocks for a long time in Chicago.

David (Monterey)

Malkin out three weeks? How do Pens cope?

Barry Melrose

  (3:25 PM)

They've had injuries in Pittsburgh before...Crosby missed some time last year. Everyone on that team is playing great. A guy like Staal who doesn't get much power play time will get more in those situations. But certainly they've missed star players before and done OK.

JB (Toronto)

The Mike Richards hit. Hard nosed hockey or a cheap shot?

Barry Melrose

  (3:26 PM)

Good hit. I watched it probably 20 times, in full speed and slow-mo. It could be interference in slow-mo, but it's instantaneous at full speed. Guys dream of hits like that. Unfortunately people get hurt, but it was a clean hit.

Samantha (Edmonton)

Who's the most overhyped player for you so far this season?

Barry Melrose

  (3:27 PM)

Some of the star players that aren't getting the job done, like Tanguay and LeCavalier with only a goal between them. There are some very good players struggling right now. Wade Redden as well. Certiainly not deserving the money he is making right now.

B-Diddy (Munstoeville, WYO)

Hi Barry- Is there a more overrated stat than shots on goal? Colorado has been outshot in every game but one, and it's not like the other teams are outplaying them or 'in control' of the games (as many Flames fans would have you believe).

Barry Melrose

  (3:29 PM)

Stats are used when they're needed to be used. I agree with you...I'll take a 10-1-1 record over 40 shots on goal any night of the week. It's the shot quality and location that counts. I don't look at too many stats. The most important numbers in hockey are letters---that's W's and L's.

Barry Melrose

  (3:30 PM)

Gonna be a good night of Hockey...Thursday night on ESPN.com we'll be doing chats during the games. I'll sit back and enjoy some great games. Talk to you next week!

Buzzmaster

  (3:53 PM)

Matthew Barnaby will be here shortly to take your questions!

Matthew Barnaby

  (3:58 PM)

Colorado just will not go away. Looks like they might be for real. A lot of teams not playing to their capabilities. We'll get to those in a few minutes.

Zippy ((Gilroy, CA))

What is the most common meal that players like to have on game day?

Matthew Barnaby

  (3:59 PM)

Game day on the road is the thing I miss the most about the NHL. Every team pretty well has the same spread - salmon, chicken steak, pasta, salad or soup. Always finished vanilla ice cream, chocolate sauce and a little bananas. God, I'm hungry.

Jesse S. (Carmel, NY)

Matthew, another night and another rash of superstar injuries. Now we have Luongo's rib and Malkin's shoulder. Would these players be better off just having the swine flue?

Matthew Barnaby

  (4:01 PM)

My son just got over the swine flu. He was down four days. Ribs and shoulder you're looking at anywhere from two to six. At least you know you'll be back in two to six. Swine flu has been a terrible bug and has killed people.

eric (baltimore)

We keep hearing nonsense about how eventually Ovechkin is going to "get his". Is he considered a dirty player among the other players and if so why has it taken 4+ years to get him. It's not like he's hard to find.

Matthew Barnaby

  (4:02 PM)

He is not a dirty player, but he is so fast and strong and finishes every check no matter who you are. There are guys who have tried to get him back but he runs them right back over. No one wants to take a suspension because the book will be thrown at them. He welcomes all takers.

Jesse S. (Carmel, NY)

Matthew, did you ever apologize to Claude Lemieux for blocking the goal at the end of warmups so he could not carry out his superstition of shooting into the empty net, and subsequently starting a fracas in the process. I hope not.

Matthew Barnaby

  (4:03 PM)

Absolutely not. No one is scoring in our goal in warmup. Had a lot of fun with pregame rituals. Miss those days.

Tom (NYC)

Any word on how serious Gaborik's injury is?

Matthew Barnaby

  (4:04 PM)

No word. But I don't think it's that serious. If I had to guess, I would say it's his knee by the way he came off the ice. I'm sure he's hoping he's good enough to play against Minnesota.

bob (aspen)

Any word on how Tucker is progressing?

Matthew Barnaby

  (4:04 PM)

With the way he was hit and the injury he sustained, I would guess it would be at least a couple of weeks before he would return. No word from them, but any time there's a concussion it's at least a week and it looked very bad.

Craig G. (Fairfield, California)

Hey Matthew, regardless of health, I would take Flower over Luongo or Brodeur for Canada's number one. Who are your choices for Canada's and USA's #1 netminders?

Matthew Barnaby

  (4:06 PM)

Fleury is playing great as well as all the Penguins. To me, Roberto Luongo is the best goalie in the NHL. I think it's Marty or Luongo to start and Fleury has a good chance to be the No. 3 guy. There are so many great goalies Canada could choose from.

Brian (Hanover, PA)

What do Pens need to do in order to cope with losses of Gonchar and Malkin?

Matthew Barnaby

  (4:08 PM)

If it was another team, I would be really worried. Up the middle you still have Crosby and Staal, which is still pretty good. On defense, Goligoski is playing great and as a whole are playing terrific. I would love to see Letang put up a few more points but this team with the way Fleury is playing, looks very solid.

Mike (Winnipeg)

Lightning or Sens? Sens or T-bay tonite

Matthew Barnaby

  (4:09 PM)

I'm going to take the Sens. I just think they are a deeper team and finally have a goaltender that they have missed for so many years. Jason Spezza needs to put up a few more goals and it's only a matter of time before he does. I didn't hear if Tampa did the strip tease yesterday or I could change my mind.

Alice (Allen Park, MI)

Women in the HHOF someday? What do you think? LeBrun and Burnside discussed it last year. What does a manly-man like yourself have to say about it?

Matthew Barnaby

  (4:11 PM)

If you had asked me this 15 years ago, I would have said absolutely not. But there are some great women players that have done some great things for the game. Our goal is to grow the game and with women playing at elite levels, they bring a different audience that we might not have had. So the answer, yes.

Brian (Long Island)

Will the Islanders stay on Long Island? How much will winning affect that?

Matthew Barnaby

  (4:12 PM)

I hope they will. This is a franchise when I was growing up in the 80s that everyone admired. This will not depend on winning as much as getting a new building. Hopefully the state and Wang can come to an agreement and keep this team here.

Willy (MSP)

Who will be the biggest name dealt this season before the deadline?

Matthew Barnaby

  (4:13 PM)

Ilya Kovalchuk. They can not make the same mistake that the Florida Panthers did last year with Jay Boumeester. Florida had a chance to get a lot in return and chose not to. We see where that got them this year. If he is not signed by the deadline, you must trade him.

Brett (Detroit)

Matt, Detroit next year has $10.5 million coming off the books, and with the struggling offense they have this year, what are the chances the Wings bite back at Chicago and offer Toews a contract. Do remember that Toews and Yzerman have a great relationship. Do you see maybe a little free agent war in the future between Chicago and Detroit?

Matthew Barnaby

  (4:15 PM)

Any contract offer made to Jonathan Toews I'm sure will be matched. I'm sure Stevie loves Toews the way he plays everyone would love him on your team. I think they could be a team that sets their sites on a Kovalchuk. With all of that money coming off the cap, you know they will be spending it.

jordan (minneapolis)

Has Huet turned the corner for the Hawks, or are we going to be talking about goaltending problems all year for Chicago?

Matthew Barnaby

  (4:15 PM)

I think this will be a trend all season long. Until he puts a few good months together, every time he has a bad outing it will be brought up. That's what we do and we love it.

eric (baltimore)

Kovalchuk for Semin. Which team says no?

Matthew Barnaby

  (4:16 PM)

I would have to say that Washington says no. Kovalchuk is unrestricted at the end of the year and to give away a player like Semin for a guy that might play a few months doesn't seem reasonable.

Metod (Slovenia)

A lot of fans are saying Ovechkin doesn't play defense, that me mostly floats. Is that true and will he have to change that part of the game if Caps want to win the cup?

Matthew Barnaby

  (4:18 PM)

No, he isn't the best player defensively. He leaves his spot several times in his own zone to try to catch players with their heads down. His game is offense and scoring goals, but I think come playoff time, you have to play a little more systematically to win. I'd still take him on my team, running around like a fool.

Tim (Chicago)

Do you think the Redwings can win the Central even with this slow this slow start?

Matthew Barnaby

  (4:19 PM)

I don't think they will win the division, because I think Chicago is a stronger team this year. A lot of losses in the offseason and goaltending woes. Having said that, they're still a good team. They will make the playoffs and it might be good for them to fly under the radar for once.

lincoln (nyc)

Matt, who is your favorite Rookie, and which one do you see has the most potential, long term?

Matthew Barnaby

  (4:21 PM)

This is just a great year for rookies. Tavares is putting up points in Long Island. Matt Duchene and Ryan O'Riley are helping an overachieving Avalanche team. But long term, I love the look of Tyler Myers from Buffalo. Maybe because I live there and have a chance to watch him a lot I have a bias, but when you're 6-8 and can skate well, all I can think of is Chara.

Jesse S. (Carmel, NY)

Matthew, we can debate whether the Richards hit on Booth was legal by the current rule book forever. But do you think the hit was NECESSARY? Same thing with Phaneuf on Okposo in the pre-season. These guys had given up the puck and the defenses had plenty of guys back. The only reason for killing the guy there is to send a message for the crowd and make the highlight films, not to actually play good defense.

Matthew Barnaby

  (4:22 PM)

We have been taught since we were kids to never to look at your pass and admire it. The Richards hit was clean and unfortunately will happen again. It is a contact sport and hitting is an exciting part of it. I blame the players that are hit for putting themselves in vulnerable positions. They should be smarter as they've been playing this game for a lot of years.

Jeff (Buffalo)

I know its early but do think the sabres have a real shot a winning the cup this year?

Matthew Barnaby

  (4:24 PM)

I honestly thought at the start of the year that this was a seven to 10 place team. They look great defensively, scoring by committee and Ryan Miller looks awfully good. Lindy Ruff has them playing very hard and have outplayed their opposition in all of their wins. They are as good right now as anyone in the East.

Metod (Slovenia)

If you had to choose one team now to play for, from all the former teams you played for, which team would you choose and why?

Matthew Barnaby

  (4:25 PM)

I would take the Penguins. Having the chance to play on a line with Malkin and Crosby would be a blessing for those two. I just think this team has a chance to win a lot of Cups. The first part was a joke.

tom (ohio)

how do you feel datsyuk will finish the season?

Matthew Barnaby

  (4:25 PM)

He has struggled out of the gate. But this is one of the best all around players in the game today. You can only keep a guy like this down for so long and he will break out and the Red Wings will follow.

eric (baltimore)

Ovechkin is consistantly on the ice in the last minute protecting one goal leads. Including Game 7 vs the Rangers where he destroyed Avery and cleared the puck with :30 left. BTW, he's also +9 at the moment.

Matthew Barnaby

  (4:27 PM)

The reason he is on the ice is to keep star players happy. They all want to win the scoring race and defending leads with an empty net at the other end are called "cookies." Players love those free goals and that's why he's out there. Also, he is very strong on the wall, so anything along the wall, he can get out of the zone. Trust me, it's not because he's great defensively.

Craig G. (Fairfield, California)

Hey Matthew, which of the teams with abundant young talent has the brightest future? L.A., maybe?

Matthew Barnaby

  (4:28 PM)

I did pick LA to make the playoffs this year, but they have even exceeded my expectations so far. Up front with Kopitar and on defense with Doughty, this team has as bright a future as any in the league.

Jason (Portland, OR)

Colorado is a "surprise" by virtue of how many people predicted them to be awful. At what point in the season -- 20 games, 30 games -- will you and others know for sure they are "for real"?

Matthew Barnaby

  (4:30 PM)

This is a great question. They are off to a great start, but I really think it takes to the halfway point of the year to get a good guage on who are pretenders and who are contenders. Taking nothing away from Anderson, but goaltenders sometimes run streaks. He is on one heck of one right now. Two of the young stars so far are rookies and as the game gets faster and the grind gets tougher, we'll see if they can keep it up. Great story so far, though.

Matthew Barnaby

  (4:30 PM)

Enjoy ESPN Hockey Night tonight. Looking forward to watching Howard play in nets for the Wings. Enjoy the week of hockey and we'll talk to you next week.

Pierre LeBrun

  (4:31 PM)

Thanks Matthew, let me take the torch now and carry it with pride. Let's get it on folks !

Redwinger815 (Muskegon MI)

Should the Wings be scared right now. Their 4-4 and are having trouble everywhere. What do they need to do to be on top of the west again?

Pierre LeBrun

  (4:33 PM)

Read Scott Burnside's story today advancing the Wings-Oilers game tonight... Telling comments from Ken Holland. Patience !They may no longer be the class of the West, but they remain an excellent team that can do damage in the playoffs. Believe you me.

Glen Sather (New York City)

Okay boys listen, Gaborik only has a hang nail. Or a scratched cornea. Or maybe it is the swine flue. It has NOTHING to do with his hip or groin. You hear that? NOTHING.

Pierre LeBrun

  (4:35 PM)

LOL... well, let's be honest, you knew this day was coming, right?He hasn't played 82 games in a season once in his nine-year NHL career. But if he plays 70 this year the Rangers will definitely take it.

Brian Burke (Toronto, ON)

Can I return Kessel back to the Bruins for that #1 pick? I still have the receipt!

Pierre LeBrun

  (4:36 PM)

Sorry Brian, no can do....To be honest, Burkey told me two weeks ago that he would make that trade no matter what, even with the horrible start to the season... I believe him when he says that. He figures Kessel is a more advanced talent than any 18-yearold he can get next June...But if the Leafs end up giving up a lottery pick this year, that will definitely be hard to sell/spin

Jesse S. (Carmel, NY)

Are the Pens the best shot blocking team in the league? McKee and Eaton eat pucks for breakfast and Staal takes up a lot of space in shooting lanes. And they do not even have Talbot back yet who will throw his beard in front of a puck if need be.

Pierre LeBrun

  (4:40 PM)

Pretty close to being the best, Jesse.The Penguins are third in the NHL as of today in blocked shots behind Colorado and the New York Islanders.McKee does lead the NHL with 38 blocked shots, one more than Isles' Brendan Witt.There you go !

Bob Fish (Dartmouth, NS)

When will ESPN start televising NHL games again?

Pierre LeBrun

  (4:41 PM)

I wish I knew !!!!!!!!!!!!All I can tell you is that one NHL official told me recently the efforts continue...

Kevin (Willowbrook, IL)

Has Cristobal Huet done enough over the last two games to solidify his position as the No. 1 goaltender for the Hawks or should we wait until next week's games at Phoenix and Colorado before jumping to conclusions?

Pierre LeBrun

  (4:42 PM)

To me, given his $5.625-million salary this season, next season, and in 2011-12 (gulp), he gets the automatic edge unless/until it's abandantly clear he can't cut it. Economics are 90 per cent of roster decisions my friend.

Ryan (Pittsburgh)

The Penguins made the Habs, a team on a four-game winning streak, look like an AHL team, despite not having three of their starters! I'm definitely biased, but this team is SCARY good right?

Pierre LeBrun

  (4:43 PM)

Well they won the Cup last year, didn't they? :)Impressive opening month for the Pens given the Cup hangover Carolina, Anaheim and Detroit had in their opening months over the last four years...

Scott (St. Louis)

With the Blues off to a mediocre start this season. Do you think this is a tell tail sign of how the season will go all year? Do you think they will turn the season around with help from like Oshie, Berglund, and Perron or is the sophomore jinx really in effect?

Pierre LeBrun

  (4:43 PM)

They will be better Scott. But the expectations got a little out of hand before the season. This remains a playoff-calibre team, but not a contender

Jeff (Florida)

It was announced that Malkin would be out 2-3 weeks with a shoulder problem. Your thoughts?

Pierre LeBrun

  (4:45 PM)

The train just keeps on rolling. Jordan Staal, step right up to the second line. Can you think of any other NHL team that can use a player of Staal's calibre as a second-line replacement?? Scary

chris (washington dc)

Do the Washington Capitals have the goaltending to compete for the Cup THIS YEAR?

Pierre LeBrun

  (4:45 PM)

THeodore has looked tremendous so far. But time will tell

Ryan (Lancaster,Pa)

What's it going to take for the Flyers to get a consistent streak going? Seems like the superstars (Crosby,Malkin,Ovechkin) own us everytime.. What gives?

Pierre LeBrun

  (4:47 PM)

Yes an inconsistent start to the season for the Flyers for the second year in a row... Pronger was brought in specifically for those three stars you're talking about and I think Pronger has played quite well.. but it's a team game... need to see more from guys like Carter

Matt (St. Petersburg, FL)

Barry, I can't help but realize that in every facet of every prediction you have ever made including almost every playoff prediction last year and even this years predictions, as well as scoring leaders and individual player awards you always go against Pittsburgh. Why the anti-Pittsburgh sentiment? Did someone spit on your Primanti's sandwich or something? This team clearly garners some respect and has from other major media outlets with the exception of the mullet at ESPN. Why the 'Guino hostility my man?

Pierre LeBrun

  (4:48 PM)

Barry has left the building. Me? I give the Pens lotsa loving !!!!The good thing is, Barry doesn't get to actualy vote on the real NHL awards, whereas I do !

Ralph (Kelvington, Saskatchewan)

If I were Brian Burke I would create some job insecurity by bringing up some young guns, a la Hanson, Tlusty and Bozak, to shake things up. I have a GM question though. If you have to send a player down to the AHL in order to make this possible and that player is on a one way, do they need to clear waivers? And if so, if another team in the league picks up that player are the Leafs compensated with a draft pick and/or cash? The reason I ask is that a lot of the players in TO that are underperforming on the NHL squad are on the last year of their one way deals. This seems to me, that if I were a team in the league and could pick up a guy that is on the last year of his deal on waivers at a reasonable price then that player is likely to get scooped up. Just trying to determine the thought process of a GM in deciding whether or not to make a particular transaction.

Pierre LeBrun

  (4:51 PM)

Kelvington... hometown of.... Wendel Clark !!!whoa.. a lot of questions there Ralph.. let me get to the juice of it _ If a guy is picked up on waivers, there is no compensation at all. But like the case of Randy Jones today, who was claimed on re-entry waivers, the team splits his salary in that case because it's re-entry waivers (on the way back up from the AHL). So the Flyers pay half of $3-million salary and the Kings, who claimed him, pay the other half. Not a bad deal for the Kings, who get a fairly cheap blue-liner, and the Flyers meanwhile clear up $1.5 million in cap room

Phillip II (Spain)

how bout dem cowboys???

Pierre LeBrun

  (4:53 PM)

God's NFL team !!!

your Brendan (your Manchester, NH)

post your question or With the bruins still needing a little more offense do you see them using their numerous draft picks to pull off a blockbuster deal invloving a legit goal scorer?

Pierre LeBrun

  (4:54 PM)

No I think for now they'll hope to hang on and await the eventual returns of Savard and Lucic... They belive in the kids they called up and the fact Bergeron is feeling much better this year

Joe (MN)

How long can Wild fans expect Bouchard to be out? We could really use him in the lineup as a playmaker. After being to a few games and watching Havlat very closely I have noticed that he passes up great opportunities to shoot the puck and tries to make that extra move way to close to the net. Is this out of the norm for him and what can Wild fans expect from a very disappointing start from our club?

Pierre LeBrun

  (4:54 PM)

Joe, you should know better than to ask. The Wild don't diclose injury info !

Adam (NJ)

Devils lack of hitting. A concern?

Pierre LeBrun

  (4:57 PM)

It's somewhat of a concern, they are ranked 26th in the league in hits... (The Rangers are first overall).But I wouldn't overreact. They were 16th last season and 17th the season before so it's not been their thing for a few years

Steven (SD)

With Marleau's hot streak to start of the season, as well as Jimbo Joe's assit #'s. Have they become legitimate team canada contenders?

Pierre LeBrun

  (4:59 PM)

Steven, stay classy :)it's actually a great point to make. I was talking to Steve Yzerman yesterday but as per custom he doesn't want to get into specific names... he did say some very good names will be left off... I think Thornton has the better shot of the two

Matt (Chinatown)

I am amazed by Ryan O'Reilly's puck poise and defensive skill. He's a face-off winning, penalty killing, play making 2 way center. WHat's not to love?

Pierre LeBrun

  (5:01 PM)

Totally agree Matt. It's really amazing for a kid drafted a few months ago to be making this kind of impact.It's why I did a big Avs piece a few weeks ago, because they are just so young and exciting and surprising !I know Avs fans were upset at me for the power rankings this week but believe me, I love these kids !

Matt (Melbourne, FL)

In addition to loosing Savard and Lucic, it seems that the Bruins are lacking character this year. Do you think the late comeback over the Senators on Saturday will help the Bruins long-term, or will they not be able to overcome the injuries?

Pierre LeBrun

  (5:02 PM)

Matt, I know in my conversations with Julien and Chiarelli this season, there was concern on their part about guys feeling too good about themselves from last year.. it's a natural feeling for a team that made such a giant leap last season... I think the Kobasew trade and the injury adversity has helped make these guys hungrier... we'll see

Louis (Fredericton, NB)

Which of these team is more liekly to turn their season around: Boston, Carolina, Tampa, Anaheim?

Pierre LeBrun

  (5:03 PM)

Boston and Anaheim

Jason (Ellicott City, MD)

Who do you see between the pipes for Team USA and Canada for the Olympics?

Pierre LeBrun

  (5:04 PM)

In no particular orderUSARyan Miller, Tim Thomas, Jonathan QuickCanadaRoberto Luongo, Martin Brodeur, Marc-Andre FleuryI love Craig Anderson in Colorado but if there's any kind of tiebreaker it's that the other three guys were at the Olympic camp in August and he wasn't....

Matt (Melbourne, FL)

Who do you think will be better in 3 years, Thomas or Rask?

Pierre LeBrun

  (5:05 PM)

Rask, and I think that's the plan in the front office as well

Eric (St. Paul, MN)

With the Wild struggling to score goals yet again who are some possible names that could be headed to Minnesota to help? If the season doesn't get any better who would you guess would be gone at the deadline?

Pierre LeBrun

  (5:05 PM)

I think this is about the long term Eric, not band-aid trades to help this season... Chuck Fletcher will build up on future assets at the deadline in my opinion

Jason (Ellicott City, MD)

How many more years does a veteran like Lidstrom have left?

Pierre LeBrun

  (5:06 PM)

His contract is up at the end of this season. But I think he'll come back for one more season after that, and I know others think two more...

Jeff (Buffalo)

do you think T. Myers will win the Calder?

Pierre LeBrun

  (5:08 PM)

He's certainly in the conversation right now, isn't he?Was talking to legend Scotty Bowman this week. He just saw a Sabres game in tampa. He said to me regarding Myers ``I've never seen a guy his size skate that well. Never."Your talking about the game's greatest ever coach who has watched hockey for 70 years... wow

Jason (Ellicott City, MD)

What is the difference between Vinny Lecavalier now and the year they won the Cup?

Pierre LeBrun

  (5:09 PM)

has a lot more money now :)

Bill (Boston)

Should the Bruins resign Marc Savard?

Pierre LeBrun

  (5:10 PM)

No question, and contract talks have already begun.he's the best offensive player

Dennis (snowy Denver, Colorado)

I don't know if the Avs can keep up their pace, either. Minimum number of points to get into the playoffs for the West?

Pierre LeBrun

  (5:10 PM)

92

Har (Vancouver, BC)

I've read Bob McKenzie's Hockey Dad book, it's a great read, do you have plans on writing a hockey book Pierre?? I would be first in line to buy it if you did. I've read Bob McKenzie's Hockey Dad book it's a great Read, do you have any plans on writing a hockey Book?? I would be first in line to buy it if you did.

Pierre LeBrun

  (5:12 PM)

Thanks Har. I have been approached by a few book publishers over the last few years.. but my answer to them is the same, between five days a week for ESPN and my day-long committment every Saturday to HINC, I simply don't have the time !

Doug (Minnesota)

One amazing thing Minnesota is done is goon replacement, 6-7 Boogaard out..bring in 6-8 Scott. I guess we can develop goons pretty well

Pierre LeBrun

  (5:12 PM)

LOL.. there's something to hang your hat on.

Kyle (Whale's Vagina)

Sorry for the vulgar location but I already saw one Ron Burgundy reference and I am in SD... With the sharks OK start (their record is good but consistency has been as issue), could this be the season that the sharks go on their annual terror late in the season and into the playoffs instead of early when it just boosts their regular season record?

Pierre LeBrun

  (5:14 PM)

You know Kyle, when the Germans discovered San Diego... LOLI wish I could answer your question on the Sharks. As you probably know, for the fourth year in a row I've made the Sharks my pre-season Cup winner. It's become somewhat of an inside joke among my media brethren, I'm going to keep doing it the rest of my career until they win... or until I retire from the business :)But honestly, I haven't seen enough yet to know either way regarding their Cup chances this year.. too early to tell

Aaron (STL Blues) (Salem Illinois)

which is the better goalie for the blues Ty Conkin or Chris Mason

Pierre LeBrun

  (5:15 PM)

The brutal truth is that neither one is a Grade A elite starter. They're both great guys and decent goaies, but...

John (MD)

Backstrom and Semin are both RFA's next year. With the kind of money they both will warrant do you think that Semin will have to be traded?

Pierre LeBrun

  (5:18 PM)

Interesting point John, especially since the Caps have very little wiggle room with the cap right now. I guess if Theodore leaves town at the end of his deal this year, that's a $4.5-million savings while varlamov and Neuvirth take over for very cheap salaries... Semin is making $5 million this season while Backstrom needs a big raise from his entry-level deal... Nylander still has another $4.5 milion against the cap next year until they can get rid of him. That's the key right there _ moving Nylanders' deal

Harrison (Aurora, CO)

Craig Anderson has played in 13 straight games, how long is too long before getting a night off?

Pierre LeBrun

  (5:18 PM)

Well, the other guy's got swine flu, so....

Terry (Denver)

Is the rest of North America shocked as anyone here at the Avs' red-hot start? Sakic's gone, and they didn't make many other big personnel changes. So it must be in large part due to coaching, agree? What else could it be?

Pierre LeBrun

  (5:20 PM)

yeah I think all of us, and just media, but GMs and other NHL coaches I speak with, we're all shocked at the Avs' start. it's amazing to see. Believe me, no one in the Avs front office saw this coming, either. You can take my word on that.Joe Sacco, for sure, deserves a lot of the credit Terry

Ace (Buffalo)

Pierre, with the Islanders holding three veteran goalies, who do you think gets moved once Dipietro is healthy? And do you think, given Lalime's poor performance and contract status, Darcy Regier will look at either Rolie or Marty Biron (both former Sabres) for an upgrade to the backup goaltender spot? The Sabres would have easily made the playoffs last year if Ryan Miller didn't get hurt; they can't afford to have that happen again.

Pierre LeBrun

  (5:24 PM)

Well Biron is on a one-year deal while Roloson signed for two years so I think it's clear Biron would be the guy on the block if and when DiPietro ever came back...As for acquiring Biron, can you really go back home?? I guess Mike Grier did :)

Phil (Lake Placid NY)

it's not to early to tell. The Sharks are going home when the season ends . they will be laughed off the ice by a good team. This year the Kings will be better than the Sharks

Pierre LeBrun

  (5:25 PM)

well then Phil, I'm glad you're so confident ! That's the beauty of sports ! No one knows !!!!

Johnny (CT)

I know there was a story on this site last year about Shea Weber, but there are still very few people talking about him. I think he's the best player on Nashville and a top defenseman for years to come. What say you?

Pierre LeBrun

  (5:26 PM)

Johnny, I wrote the ESPN.com story on him last year ! So yeah, I agree !What will help Weber is playing for the Canadian Olympic team in Vancouver. That will open up more eyes to him around the league.

Bill (Chicago)

Brad Richards is off to a nice start in Dallas, do you think he can keep up the pace and live up to the expectations that come with his monster salary?

Pierre LeBrun

  (5:27 PM)

yes I do think so. he's such a talented player. He didn't win the 2004 Conn Smythe by mistake !He's finally healthy now which is the key

Craig G. (Fairfield, California)

Hey Pierre, how amazing have the Avs been! Sick players, Wolski getting benched by Sacco and scoring the game winner after being outshot 32-14 last night. How long can they keep it up? Is your little one playing yet?!

Pierre LeBrun

  (5:28 PM)

The Avs are the best story in hockey right now, glad I wrote about them two weeks ago ! hahaI think they'll hit a wall at some point but they've probably done enough daamage now to make the playoffs ... great storymy little one! Just nine months old, not playing yet !!!

eric (baltimore)

Don't forget Pierre that Poti and Pothier will be both be replaced soon by Alzner and Carlson so that's another 3-4 million saved.

Pierre LeBrun

  (5:30 PM)

Great point Eric. Ok folks, time for me to go be a daddy !until next week and join us tonight for Thursday Night Hockey !