Inside the Sens!

Im back! Sorry for the Delay....D-DAY Tmrw!

2007-02-26T17:28:00.000-05:00

Sorry for my disappearance - A bunch of issues with myself not to mention Bloggers transition to there new system has been a real pain. Not use talking about it....here I am and I thank-you for coming by the page. Also I am working on something for the off-season regarding the Sens and other Eastern Teams.

As for the deadline....

Here is what I have heard.

Roberts - If Pittsburgh doesn't get him - Ottawa will most likely be there. Not sure what they would give up - certainly NOT Vermette - Muckler said no current Roster Players, and I have heard two Prospects and a high pick. Lots swirling.....I think he is a good fit and I would consider moving Eaves (who can be replaced)

Sopel - A possibility for a pick. Although the cap issue would be the problem.

Guerin - Not likely but not ruled out.

Gelinas - A strong possibility, but not sure if he would be the answer

I will have alot of updates coming over the next 24 hours in the comments section - leave your comments and questions and rumours for discussion.... and after the deadline I will reveal what I have planned for the off-season and next season.

Thanks.

- SI.

McGratton, Gerber/Corvo & Off-Season

2007-01-26T14:33:00.000-05:00

I never in my wildest dreams thought I would be writing about Brian "Big Ern" McGratton. But after hearing lots of rumours and reading about him 'protecting' Crosby, I thought I would chime in. Now I'm not saying it won't happen, because there is a possibility, but I would think twice before moving this guy. He isn't a great skater, goal scorer and considered average on a good day, but yes he can fight, but there is more to this guy than what meets the eye. Trading him might start an uproar in the dressing room, simply because he is so well liked by the entire team - and thats a fact. I do realize its part of the business, but so is making sure you have a happy dressing room and team chemistry. I do know that McGratton and Emery are really good friends not to mention, Spezza, Kelly, Neil and basically the rest of the team, and the close relationship he has with them. Now, like I said, I do believe the trade MAY happen, but I really hope they do not pull the trigger unless they receive something more than decent in return (high pick) as his value is more off the ice than on.

Gerber has been an on-going, talked about issue for a long time. People are wondering if Ottawa will keep him after this year. Some think they might, but I personally think they will have no choice but to either buy him out or move him and eat half the salary. With Phillips, Volch and Emery being there big signings, they simply cannot afford him. Also I do believe Corvo will be moved as well, probably for next to nothing, thus creating a spot for Schubert. Now I do believe Ottawa will attempt to keep Preissing and the overall feeling I have got from talking to sources with the team is that he likes it here and likes this team, and I believe he will stay. Perhaps Ottawa will acquire a cheap, depth defenseman in the off-season. Look for Ottawa, if they have the $$$ to take a run at Comrie aswell. His play has proven to be QUITE VALUABLE.

Here are some of my off-season transactions I believe the team will make:

Re-Sign Preissing (UFA)
Re-Sign Phillips (UFA)
Re-Sign Volch (RFA?)
Re-Sign Emery (RFA)

Move Corvo
Move/Buy-out Gerber

Obtain a depth D-MAN
Obtain an older goalie (1 year deal)

Attempt to sign Comrie.

I also believe they will attempt to give Heatley a contract extension, or new deal.

Anyways, chime in with your thoughts, I hope the team can stay on track and continue to roll with this momentum. I will be at the Boston game and am also making the trip to Montreal with some friends, which should be FUN to say the least.

- S.I.

ASG = Not Good for Sens

2007-01-18T06:36:00.000-05:00

Yes, the ASG is approaching and so is the break. 6 days off is not good for a team that is rolling. Yes they will be healthy - however - momentum is strong, and hopefully they can continue the roll they are on. Tonights matchup vs. VAN - will be a great matchup.

Here is what I anticipate the lines will be when Spezza & Fisher return.

Heatley, Kelly, Alfie
Fisher, Spezza, Eaves/Vermette
Schaefer, Comrie, Neil
Schubert, McAmmond, Eaves/Vermetter

- McGratton, Hamel - scratched. Hamel may be moved or picked up through waivers. Also, Ottawa may add another defenseman for depth. Not Pitkanen. No chance - unless they move a roster player.

More soon.

Thanks.

- SI

Happy New Year!

2007-01-06T21:15:00.000-05:00

Hey All,

Sorry for the lack of blogs. I have sorting some family issues of late and been busy with business etc.I like the Comrie move, and for those of you who say I never said anything about him, refer back to my post "Frustration Brews and so do Rumours" - Not trying to say I told you so or anything like that, but I reported it way back that they were talking, and it took awhile to pull the trigger and I REALLY like the move, you lose a guy who really never was going to play for OTT again. Look for the Sens to add a depth D-MAN and/or FRWD.

You might see Hamel moved or waived, with the outside chance of Eaves moving as well.Emery looks great and the team is playing well under this new system of defence, finally Murray is doing something right.

I PROMISE to have more blogs, Im thinking every Wednesday and every Sunday from now on - thanks to those who have stopped by.

TTYL -S.I.

Vote Emery for A.S.G.

2006-12-17T20:23:00.000-05:00

Well, I have a shortened blog here. Firstly I just wanted to encourage everyone to go to NHL.com and vote Ray Emery for the Eastern Team. I do realize that Miller, Brodeur are probably shoe-ins, but I think there is an opening for the #3 goalie and Emery has proven to be 'exceptional' this season. I truly believe that he deserves that spot, not because I am a Sens fan, but because he has played GREAT. You have to add him as the write-in at the bottom of the ballot and I do not know who would be ahead of him, Lehtonen perhaps...?? I'm not sure....?

Emery was amazing vs. Detroit, had NO CHANCE on any of the goals vs. NASHVILLE and played incredible vs. BUFFALO - AGAIN! Vote for him as he really deserves it!

I really do apologize for not blogging as often, its the holidays and I have been overwhelmed with things that have to be done. As for the rumour front, not a heck of alot brewing, a source who I know personally said that they continue to work on the GERBER CASE, but trading him is no easy task. I do believe that a team will take a chance on him if Ottawa eats HALF his salary. Next year the cap goes up (apparently) so that will help.
Also, it is all but confirmed that MURRAY will be the new GM next season, whether he coaches next year is still uncertain, I doubt he will. I heard the PADDOCK may be given a chance, but I really hope not, I think MURRAY will go out and hire the right guy. He is and has proven to be a FANTASTIC GM and I look forward to what he will bring. I must say, I am not a big 'coaching' fan of his, but I like some of the line combo's he has had over the last month.

People who think Alfie needs to be moved, just have to look at there record without him over the last two seasons and see how valuable he really is.

Spezza has been MORE THAN AWESOME, he is seeing the ice well and playing with a ton of confidence, he really is a SUPERSTAR and should be voted to the A.S.G.

I will have more in the NEW YEAR.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to everyone. I will be responding in the comment area, so feel free to drop a line or your thoughts.

Thanks.

- SI.

Gaining Ground

2006-12-05T01:52:00.000-05:00

Well, finally the team that we all expected from the start has shown up.

The teams overall play has been great as we all know. They are playing with tons of confidence and are now communicating more.
For once I like what Murray has done. He has found a winning combination of lines and has really kept to them.

I love Kelly on the first line. He provides that extra defensive ability to the ever so strong Heatley and Spezza, who are playing well too and Kellys defensive play has rubbed off on them as they seem to be contributing at both ends of the ice.

Vermette has finally been given a chance to play OFFENSE, filling the role as the 2nd line center and doing a great job. How about that goal, simply amazing. I was fortunate enough to be sitting 10 rows up, right there to witness it.

Neil has impressed me more than ever. This guy is for real and will only get better. 100% every game....lol....

Defense is strong and the play of Emery has really come to help this team (obviously) and even though Murray still considers he and Gerber 'co-starters', we all know who 'the guy' is.

Forget any Gerber trade talks for the time being. I think they really want to see Gerber for the whole season or at least until deadline and will deal with him at latest possible time or the end of the year, where, if Emery shows he is a TRUE #1, they will move Gerber and by that time he might have more worth. Teams like Phoenix, LA, Tampa, Philly and a few others may be willing to take on half the salary or whatever the deal may be. Look for Emery to get a new contract worth at least what Gerber is making now if he keeps up the strong play. If they don't give him what he wants, next season will be his last with Ottawa. He is making a strong case for himself.

Trade talk is quiet. When they win, who wants to trade away anybody.

Yes, like I said before, Muckler will retire at the end of the year, purchase and move the ICE DOGS (OHL) and Murray will most likely be his replacement. Now who will be the next coach of the Sens, leave a comment with your thoughts.

More soon, sorry for the delays. Really busy these days.

Thanks for stopping by,

- SI

Growing Confidence & More!

2006-11-21T03:38:00.000-05:00

Well its clear to see that this team is growing in the confidence department. Emery has stood tall and been nothing but sensational. I was at the Buffalo & Minnesota game and Emery was great. Its clear to see that he has adjusted his quickness and positioning. Not to mention that his confidence is at an all time high. He worked hard this past summer and is being rewarded for it.

Inside the Sens:

Yes - I have heard that Muckler is going to be stepping down at the end of the year and I have also been told that it is likely that Bryan Murray will be taking his place and will be in charge of hiring a new coach - who that will be, I'm not entirely sure. I have heard anything from K.Hitchcock, A.Murray (if they are not hired by CBJ), P. Burns, P.Quinn. I have also heard it could be a former player - which I wouldn't mind seeing.

One of the reasons Murray has been kept here as coach is because they don't want him to leave on bad terms if he is to become GM. Smart move, however some of his coaching tactics are driving me nuts. I will give him credit as he clearly has started to get these players to block more shots - Volchenkov is on his own level, but others are starting to follow suit.

Right now, as the team grows stronger, the trade talk has quieted down. However my sources have told me about a 2nd line center being brought in. Personally I love Vermette being given a chance.

Since Emery's return, its clear to see that this team plays well in front of him. Its his team and his time and I hope he does well, he is a professional, well-liked gentleman who I have had the pleasure of meeting numerous times and he works incredibly hard.

As for Gerber, if/when he turns it around, Im not sure where he will fit into this team come end of year - regardless how Emery turns out. Options are as follows:

1. Keep him and roll the dice
2. Send him to the minors and pay him full contract (doesn't count against cap)
3. Trade him and eat half of his contract with the other team
4. Buy him out (goes against the cap)

I guess we will see how it works out come season end, all I can say though is Emery becomes a RFA and will want a pay hike and contract increase if he keeps it up, and they will give it to him too. So keeping two guys can't happen, and Emery is the one they would prefer. He is close with teammates and plays well with this group.

More after Philly.

- SI

Something Big is Brewing....

2006-11-14T15:32:00.000-05:00

I just got wind of a potential deal that could happen in the next 24-36 hours. I don't believe that Ottawa is firing anyone, at least thats not what I have heard, however I have been told that there could be a 3 or 4 way deal that is in the making.....

Im not sure yet who would be coming here, however have been told that some names that could be moved are:

PHILLIPS or MESZAROS - I really hope it would be Phillips
SCHAEFFER - Murray is really unhappy with his lack of effort
VERMETTE - I would rather keep him, but if you get a guy that can make your TEAM better, then I would pull the trigger.

Everything depends on the impact of the trade, but I do believe it's happening, SOON....more when I hear it

- SI

Once Again: Winds of Change…

2006-11-13T23:59:00.000-05:00

I hear it again, and not just from Sens fans, but from more than one source. I was in Pittsburgh Friday night and was impressed, but still not sold…..Saturday night I convinced my friend who was traveling with me to go to Boston, and there it was – another disappointment. I normally do not go out of town to watch the team - I am a season ticket holder, but I had a completely free weekend and thought I would just go for it. Boston is a beautiful city and I hope to return very soon.

Now, for some updates:

Redden – Out for awhile, to say the least – I think this is a smart move on his part…his game is clearly not there and groin injuries need time to heal. I have heard 3-5 weeks….I also had someone say only 1-2 weeks….its really up in the air.

House Cleaning:

I have heard it all lately, not only is this team a mess, so is the organization. I think if they are to swing a deal, it will be by Thursday. However, I am also told that Murray and staff may be on there way out before then……really when it comes to management, its hard to get information. I do think Murrays time was up LAST JANUARY….that is when I noticed that he really is not a good coach.....but a good GM.

Believe it or not, I have heard rumours about who is replacement will be, and if it were to happen, I don’t know where I would stand.

I have heard John Muckler may be an interim coach, not to mention John Paddock…..but I don’t think either would be a good fit.

Players on the watch:

With Redden out, it makes it really difficult to trade a starting D-Man but calling up Malec or moving him may be an option.

I have heard in trade rumours:

Phillips, Schubert, Volch, Hamel, Vermette, Kelly and Schaefer. Not to mention, some prospects like Malec, Bois, Guard or Glass…..

In return, here are some names I have been given:

S. Doan – You may lose Vermette and a High Prospect/Pick, but he is someone who can shake it up - the only problem is that he is an UFA at the end of the year I believe.
S. Horcoff – I have heard Phillips or Volch and a Prospect/Pick
S. Barnes, C. Conroy – A pick and/or prospect(s)

One last note, I listen and am a big supporter of the Team 1200, but really am sick and tired of the way they really only consider there own points and not ones of other callers or emailers……I do think some of the calls/emails they get are dumb, but people have called and made some great points, which involve negative or constructive criticism regarding the Sens and or there coaching, and 9 of 10 times, the post game staff put down or disagree completely with points that are brought up. I don’t know if they realize that they – on the radio – sometimes make some terrible points, yet they think they are correct. Just a point I thought I would make, because I really am tired of the shenanigans from them…....im not sure where I'm going with this, but I get really annoyed with some of the crap that they preach....not saying its all crap, because I love the Morning and Moron Sports show, it can be frustrating is all.....

Anyways, I wish I had more answers for you, but some stuff is kept really hush hush…..

Leave a comment with your thoughts.

- SI

Speechless….

2006-11-08T21:52:00.000-05:00

Its gone on too long. I’m lost for words. I watched the game tonight and was disgusted by the uneasiness of this team and the terrible goaltending they are receiving. They can say he got hurt, just like he was apparently sick during the playoffs last year….but that is no excuse……..Kelly Guard would have put on a better showing, MUCH better….OR they could just as easily put a pair of pads on Volchenkov, he would be a better fit in there.

I have heard so many things, but when are they going to pull the trigger – I don’t know.

I thought they would have done it by now. I know they have a deal lined up – and they have to pull the trigger soon, this team is clearly

Also when Emery does come back….I have heard 1-3 games, he will be playing a majority of the games….Ottawa does not play well in front of Gerber – as he clearly is not the goalie they thought….will he be able to find his game…who knows….

The lines they had worked well, they just could not get a timely save….4 goals is apparently not enough to win games.

Some kind of shake-up must happen, they clearly are not responding. Trade, coaching change, GM change….I’ve heard it all. Right now I have no answers….and am keeping my ears open.

I will let you know when I hear something. Once again, LOST FOR WORDS....

Muckler?? Not going?

2006-11-07T04:35:00.000-05:00

As my previous blog stated (below - @ 11pm), I had heard Muckler might be gone, now my source has told me he may be given another chance....not to sure what is going on right now...will report more when I hear more.

I do know a trade is in the works.....think it is Conroy for Schubert and Prospects and picks...I will know more tomorrow....a lot is in the air right now.....It is now 4am.....

Good night.

- SI

Muckler is Done! Awaiting confirmation...

2006-11-06T22:59:00.000-05:00

Tonights loss has raised a lot of issues for this team, and from what I have heard, changes will be made in the next 36 hours.

Im still awaiting confirmation, but from what I just heard, MUCKLER is done - NO SURPRISE....not sure if he will resign or be 'fired'. If it does happen I hope he resigns.

His temporary replacement would likely be MURRAY....I'm still awaiting confirmation from a source, so don't take this to the bank YET, but this is what I have heard.....we will see how this transpires....

Also look for Ottawa to go with EMERY for the next little while --- they need consistency in the net and the team has played better in front of him.

Lastly, I put my foot in my mouth and would like to change where I stand regarding Volchenkov. He has really proven how much of a force he is and after last year I was a naysayer, but he showed all of his doubters.....I hope he keeps it up.

Stay Posted.

Frustration Brews....so do the rumors...

2006-11-05T01:31:00.000-05:00

Well again, another one slips away. I was there tonight and can tell you even though the game was entertaining; I knew when Carolina scored that 1st goal they were going to win. Ottawa ONCE AGAIN took there foot off the petal, while Carolina out-shot them heavily in the 2nd. Here are a few points, rumors and notes to pass on.

- Gerber -
I don’t care if he makes 40, 50, 60 saves in a game, he has to save the SIMPLE ones. He shows shades of Lalime and the first and second goals were nothing but AWFUL….first one, bad bounce, but that seems to bad a common excuse with him….second goal, DOWN EARLY AGAIN….I know he is a positional goalie, but you cant just hope it hits you every time. He is good down low, very good actually…but get the puck 2-3ft off the ice….and you never know with him. Emery has looked sensational and is also a positional butterfly goalie but he is better up high, is better overall,. Not blaming Gerber completely, but you just get a sense of Lalime when he is in net – an UNEASY feeling comes over you. Mark my words, unless he has a major turn around, Gerber will be Emery’s back up by mid-season and gone after this year. Ottawa has too many goalies to be wasting money on a flash-in-the-pan goaltender, “average goaltender”. He will probably be sent away for next to nothing, however with that high price tag, Ottawa would have to compensate some of that cost.

-Refs Fault, NOPE-
Yes, the call against Phillips was bad, but Ottawa had chances and calls that went in there favor and they did not capitalize on them. Phillips, even though he was frustrated, has to be more disciplined and just get in the box when the game is tied…..the original call should never have been made, but Ottawa should have ended the game when they had there own 5 on 3s.

-Take it easy on Spezza-
Another game where he was not bad at all…..he is averaging a point a game and somehow that still is not good enough for people. If you aren’t careful, he will be run out of town and that IS NOT the answer. He does have some bad flaws, but every player does. EVERY TEAM IN THE NHL would want this guy. Either you are a Sens fan and go down with the ship, or you are not a fan at all. Don’t cheer when they WIN and PANIC/CALL THEM OUT when they lose, there is a difference in being passionate about a team and just being a complete band wagon fan.

-Rumors-
Alfie is NOT going anywhere, at least not until the season ends – then perhaps if the right deal comes along and he has struggled, MAYBE. He has had a bad start, but and will turn around. However he does need a center to play because I do believe the McAmmond would be better fit for a wing. Alfie will still score close to 30 goals this year.

Conroy would be a valuable asset to the team. A couple of teams are also interested in him. Ottawa would have to package together a great deal in order to get him, and I’m not sure if that would include a starting D-Man or not. I think Ottawa may get away with packaging some prospects together, after all LA is not interested in a veteran or older guy – they want youth.

Another name I have heard is Mike Comrie, and make that all the Coyotes, but he has been the main one. I have also heard that a couple of Lightning members may be available – however they would come at a high price tag. I think if Ottawa is still struggling, even a little bit, by next weekend – you will see a new face here….perhaps sooner. My prediction and from what I have heard, Ottawa will land Conroy for a top prospect, another prospect and/or draft pick. Actually, win or lose, Ottawa will get a center and I do believe it is Conroy.

I think Ottawa will also consider carrying two extra players IF they can get away with adding a player without losing one.

Lastly.

-Murray & the PP –

As soon as the PP gets going, so will the team. There D and Goaltending has not been the problem (even though I am not a Gerber fan) – however there scoring has been. This is the team that was a force last year. Now they are less Havlat who played ¼ the season last year and is not an excuse for lack of scoring. Once they add a PP goal or two per game, there problems will be solved. In the NEW NHL, you have to have a PP that is effective (doesn’t have to be THE BEST) but at least a top 10 PP. There PK is incredible, and thus, with the power play will come wins.

Murray has to be better with his PP decisions….here was the lines from the CANES game:
PP line 1: Alfie, Spezza, Heatley w/ Corvo & Meszaros
PP line 2: Fisher, Neil, Eaves w/ Preissing & Schubert

There first unit is ok in my eyes, they have a playmaker (Spezza) with two snipers (Alfie, Heatley) and two shooting D MEN, who can’t just shoot always, even though I love Corvo’s shot. Teams just clog the shooting lane and then clear after the block. More emphasis has to be with setting up the PP (not that stupid cross-crease pass either as a good goalie will poke it away).

The second pairing makes NO SENSE at all.
You have two grinders (Neil, Eaves) with a mediocre playmaker (Fisher) and two suitable D Men…..they need to add another player on this unit that can score goals and make plays. McAmmond would be ideal.

Anyways, Murray in my eyes NEEDS to find a way to get these guys going and get a better, successful plan of attack. Its obvious that teams are now learning how to defend against Ottawa and thus they need to go back to the drawing board and come up with some new systems……that and the PP….once it gets going, the rest will come. That leads back to my theory about Murray being an incredible GM, but only an average coach…..and this team needs more than average behind the bench.

This team will still make the playoffs and contend….

Leave a comment.

- S.I.

Looking Good!

2006-10-26T02:13:00.000-04:00

Indeed, the Sens look to have found something, and it works.

They all looked very sharp and Neil continues to impress me and I hope all of you.

My original prediction was that Ottawa gets 3pts from this Home and Home, but it looks like they may get 4. They have looked really strong and perhaps they can go on a run and win 4 or 5 in a row and get back to the higher part of the standings and on the right track. They play Tor, Bos, Mtl, Car then Wsh before running into a HOT Atl team that will cool off at some point.

Also, if you read the Sun today, you will see more on Perrault. After reading this I contacted a guy who has more info on this than I could get my hands on and this was his response via email:

“The article is right; the team is making a serious push for him. Sending down Kaigorodov and Hamel would be the most logical option; however a small deal might be in the works, perhaps trading Hamel for a pick. If Perrault does come here - which I know he would prefer because it’s close to home so - he might be willing to take slightly less than 1MIL to play here…… If something happens, it will be in the next week…..."

So there you have it.

That’s about all I have right now, as always I am keeping me ears open.

Leave a comment.

- SI

Exactly what they needed!

2006-10-22T13:47:00.000-04:00

Yes, that title was exactly it. This team needed to send a message, a message that the bad bounces, poor thinking, lack of effort and overall sloppy play was just a growing pain. They made a statement against a goalie that doesn’t get pulled from too many games either, and he was great for the first period, where the score easily could have been 5-1 at the end of one. Good for Ottawa to show that they are still a force and a good team.

I don’t care what anybody has said to me, this team is very well built. Aside from the game against Buffalo [the best team in the NHL] and that awful lapse against T.O., Ottawa has yet to allow more than two goals in a game and it’s only been there offense that needed a kick start. Yes, losing Havlat did hurt there offence, but that should NOT be an excuse, he only played a quarter of the REGULAR SEASON last year and WASN’T the reason this team was one of the HIGHEST SCORING TEAMS last season. Losing Smolynski should actually help the team too. Then you add McAmmond who has proved his worth thus far and also take into consideration that younger players are now one year older and wiser (Eaves, Vermette, Kelly etc).

I have been at all the home games thus far, and I too was starting to get frustrated with the teams start, but they will be fine and I still forecast them in the TOP 5 in the conference.

Players coming along:
Nice to see certain players getting it going;
Spezza who played well in his first three games, had a slip and heard it from the fans, but he has changed alot of his ways. He is hitting more and has worked on his defensive play too. Lose a blind back pass or two and people will grow to love this creative player.

Heatley was never a concern of mine, this guy just has a way to find the back of the net and even though I do think Hossa should have been kept here, Heatley is the right bang for the buck and will easily produce 35+ goals this year.

Alfie has been moving his feet finally and should be finding the back of the net soon. He has been much better and I hope to see him bury a few goals soon.

Corvo like I said would not disappoint. I used to follow a lot of the West Coast teams and this was one guy who always stood out to me. He is very underrated and he will soon be discovered as a force on the blue line who can shoot, skate, hit and SCORE.

Fisher vs. Neil
I get so tired of listening to people preach on how Fisher should be captain or an alternate. YES, he does have captain like qualities, but people forget about another guy who - game in and game out - gives 110%, Chris Neil. This guy is another guy on this team who will die out there, is all heart and never plays without putting in a solid effort. He has been there best player since game 1. No offence to Fisher and his leadership - and for that matter no offence to Alfie, who is another leader spite what many bandwagon fans claim.

Goalie Scenario:
Gerber was spectacular vs. Colorado and should of played vs. NJ. Not to say Emery was bad against the Devils, because he certainly looked good making 34 saves but Gerber was brought here to be #1 and he should have been between the pipes when you were put into an early season MUST WIN. Regardless, both goalies are well qualified, its just I ONCE AGAIN question what Bryan Murray thinks.

This from the rumor mill and no big surprise IF it happens, but I’ve heard that John Muckler will pack it in at the end of this season, regardless of what happens. I also anticipate that his replacement will be Murray, but then again who knows. All I know is Murray is a mediocre coach but one hell of GM (Florida – mid 90’s, Anaheim – 2002 to current). If Murray still coaches if/when he becomes GM is a huge question mark......

Also, I expect Denis Hamel to be moved or rejoin the Bingo Sens within 7-10 days. This I have heard from a couple of people.

Perrault talks are still buzzing, but, if they do bring him in, who knows how healthy he will be and how they make room for him. Not sure if I see this happening, only time will tell. I am keeping my ears open too.

Anyways, looking forward to this week, my prediction, not as a Sens fan, but as a hockey fan – Ottawa gets 3pts this week vs. Toronto.

Also curse the schedule maker, not saying this as an excuse but Ottawa never has been given a chance to get going, 2 five day breaks – TERRIBLE, how can you expect a team to play well when they have barely been able to get off the practice ice and into games. Now Ottawa has no excuses as they have a TON of games upcoming.

Leave a comment.

Thanks.

- SI

Thoughts on Perrault and Muckler

2006-10-17T17:10:00.000-04:00

Well, news breaks quick and I remember about two months ago hearing something about Ottawa interested in Perrault but thought nothing of it, because a lot of teams were.

I spoke to some of my sources today and they said there is a conceivable possibility that you see Yanic here in the next month, however certain changes would have to be made and people would either be moved, sent down or both. One suggestion/scenario I was given was that the Sens would send both Kai and Hamel down to make room for him and keep them as call-ups, however I was told you could see somebody be traded via player request or to free-up cap space. Guys on my hot-list would be, and this is just hearsay/speculation, would obviously be Kelly or McGratton. Both have been doing quite well this year, even McGratton has shown flashes of improvement, but when it comes to sprucing up your team, you have to look at cuts that could be made. Also, I would hate to see it but, you might think Schubert or Volch could be on the block strictly because either one of them would help free up space and that the team haa other guys they can turn to if one of the Top 6 goes down, which you can bet one of them will. MALEC, Barinka and also Allison can all play in the NHL, especially Malec, who is a good young player who could easily play in the league right now – and the Sens know that. They also have some talent that will soon be developed – Brian Lee, the future D-Man of the Sens.

Muckler has some TOUGH decisions to make, because he already knows he screwed up by getting Gerber and paying him 3.7MIL when they have somebody who was ready to be given a CHANCE. Muckler easily could have kept Emery as the #1, signed some mediocre back-up who can play 30 games for less than 1MIL or given Glass/Guard a chance as the back-up, kept Chara and if Emery dropped the ball mid/early season, go out and make a move for somebody and lose a player and a prospect to get a goalie, such as Gerber, Toskala, Giguerre/Bryz or even another netminder. His decisions in the next few weeks will be crucial to his job here and in the future, as they are in jeopardy, spite what Melnyk says to everybody.

So many speculations and possibilities are out there and I wish I knew more, but lately info has been hard to come by, and I take it as I get it.

More after Thursdays Game. I will be there and am looking forward to it.

Leave a comment with your thoughts.

- SI

RAY of Light

2006-10-14T22:10:00.000-04:00

Well I will start with thoughts from the Calgary game in which I had a whole row of flames fans in my section, ANNOYING, but not like HABS FANS or LEAFS FANS, who have driven me up the wall before. I am all for fans cheering for there teams, but not being real jerks about it, like being inconsiderate to others around you.

Anyways, a good solid effort wasn’t enough to beat the Calgary KIPPERS. This was the most physical Sens team I have ever seen. They were out hitting and outworking them and I thought Ottawa and EMERY deserved to win. Speaking of Ray, he has looked good, REALLY GOOD and I would like to see this guy given the ball, not because Gerber has been lacking but because he deserves it. The fans love him and he worked hard in the off season. What about Gerber? I’m not to sure. He has to find his game and earn his spot. It’s only been a couple of games but he just hasn’t looked comfortable aside from the first game. Every time I think about the goalie situation, I get so confused.

BIG 3: Spezza, Heater, Aflie
Spezza has looked pretty good for the most part, still does his back passes etc once and awhile but otherwise looks as though he has improved on D, and his physical play.

Heater has been totally lost, slow and out of place, but I know he will find himself and net 30-40 goals this year.

Alfie hasn’t been moving well at all. Actually, he really has done nothing for me, YET. I still believe in this guy as a workhorse and a heck of a hockey player, but he needs to get it going. I’m still lost what he was thinking in the last 10 seconds of the 2nd period in Montreal….????....If he doesn’t get going, even though Muckler said he would be a SEN for life, you will hear about a lot of trade RUMOURS, because he HAS to be the guy and I still think he is, hopefully he wont disappoint me/us.

Other Notes:
Redden has picked it up since Buffalo and looks better and so does the entire Defense.

Volchenkov has looked really good. Somebody said to me that he was terrible out there, but I strongly disagree. The last two seasons he has not been impressive and lacked completely, but this year he has found that physical presence and has been quite effective. I was really hard on him in the off-season but he has shown a lot of people that he can play with this team and I hope he keeps it up.

Corvo will be back for Colorado vs. Ottawa, they will certainly look better with him there. He is SO underrated and everyone will soon see that. I am so excited to see him play.

Powerplay = Powerless
This team has been brutal on the PP and will turn it around. They are squeezing there sticks way too tight and looking to pass it too much, HOWEVER, being at the games thus far, I get SICK and TIRED of hearing some of the brainless fans that yell SHOOT all the time. A powerplay enables you to set up in the offensive zone and everyone just yells shoot like that is the answer when if they forced it even further, the shot would be blocked or easily saved. Sometimes they wait too long to shoot, but they have always been like that and believe it or not, they know what they are doing.

Murray:
Not saying this because they won, because I would say it even if they lost but he made a great decision in selecting his shooters. Vermette, Fisher were great choices and I have to say I was surprised by McAmmond, but I like the picks. Alfie and Heatley just haven’t been scoring and you have to go with whats working and he did that. I am a naysayer with some of Murray’s decision, but I liked his selections tonight.

That’s it for now,

Remember, better to slump now than late in the season. All good teams need time to gel and they will come together.

PS> How bout my dark horse team, Minnesota Wild. I put money on them to win the Western Conference, they look good!!!

Leave a comment,

- SI

Unlikely Start...its OK...79 more to go

2006-10-08T14:33:00.000-04:00

Hey everyone.

Even I have had the thought that every fan has had. Is this team even going to make it? Well, after giving my head a quick shake, the answer is of course! Have they got off to a bad start, certainly - will they be as successful as last year, no - but will they be a good competitive team, you betcha! This team is still a good team. Last year they were awesome, an amazing team. Now they are a good, fast team and can/most likely will finish top four in the conference.

Their weaknesses - Defence. They have a great defensive core and will succeed but the only D-Man who has shown up is Meszaros. Preissing is getting there and he is a good addition to the team. Volchenkov has actually impressed me this year and Schubert is a good, steady guy to have back there, your 6th-7th kind of guy. Corvo will help a ton when he is back but where is Redden and Phillips. These guys have to lead this core and get them back to being a top team a top Defensive team. They obviously have the talent and I believe they will come back stronger each game. So, like I said, Meszaros has stood out and played quite well.

Can't blame goaltending completely. Yes, Gerber has to be better and will be. This guy is a work horse and wants to be the best he can. I think some fans are being rather hard on him, but that brings me to my second point, as much as I thought Ottawa needed to bring in a number one goalie in the off season, I am starting to think that the organization should have waited to bring in a new goalie. I am not saying this because Gerber has struggled, he will be better and we saw flashes of that in T.O., I am saying this because Emery deserved a chance, and if after 30 games he flopped then go out and acquire somebody. I personally know that Ray worked hard in the off season, attended lots of goalie sessions and worked on his game more than any other Senator. He improved his side to side movement and also his positioning. The organization basically wrote him off by signing someone else and only extending Emery's contract by one year. Emery also knows that they have two great up and coming goalies in the AHL. So he either will have to win his job or will be gone within a year or so. He is a fan favorite and I would like this guy to succeed wherever he goes, whether it be here or somewhere, he will be a good goalie who I believe will play a long time.

Forwards have been steady. Alfredsson is one of the only guys who really has yet to show up, but he did play better against Buffalo. He needs to lead this team and show them how to work hard every game; he has to show that he IS the CAPTAIN of this team, HIS team. Spezza has REALLY IMPRESSED ME. He has more speed and more emphasis on defense also. He has been one of the best players out there and has really has shown that maybe 4.5 MIL might be worth it. Heatley will come around and was better vs. Buffalo. He will find the net soon.
One guy who looks good, REALLY GOOD is McAmmond. This guy does it all. Comes back, sets up plays and can score. Also he can hit too. He will go into the corners and do it all. Vermette, Fisher, Neil and Kelly have also looked good. Eaves and Schaefer haven't been bad but need to be careful with there penalties.

Lastly, I thought I should mention something that I have been saying for the past 8-10 months but never wrote on here. Bryan Murray, this guy is not the guy who is going to get them to win. I have yet to be impressed with anything this guy has done. Yes, I do realize that he had to deal with Hasek and his problems last year and do think that IF Hasek stayed healthy that this team would have won the cup, but not because of his coaching (a team of Monkeys could of coached a healthy Sens team last year to winning), but because last years team was that good when healthy. They were not healthy towards the end and Murray did a horrid job keeping this team focused in playoffs. I remember I was at Game 1, round 2 when we were up 6-5 with a minute to go and Murray puts on Meszaros – a good rookie - but had no business being on at that time, he pinched and got caught setting up a odd man rush which lead to Buffalo winning the game and that game cost them the series. Murray had reliable guys like Redden, Chara or even Phillips who should have played the last 90 seconds of that game. I was at the game last night vs. BUF and the same thing happened, the team is down by two with 6 minutes left and the Sens are surging and playing hard, who does he have on the ice, McGratton. With all do respect to McGratton, he should not be playing at that time. Sure enough the Sens did make a game of it but came up short. Good coaches find a way to get the most out of there players on a regular basis and he has to be able to light a fire with these guys. Another example is pairing Volch with Phillips, a horrible pairing to say the least and moving Phillips to his off wing. Murray did wonders with Florida as a GM when they went to the cup and with Anaheim when he built them too. Murray is a great GM but only a so-so coach. He has had chances with great teams to win the cup as a coach and has yet to do so. I hope he proves me wrong as this will probably be his last kick at the can this year.

Other thoughts from last night, I was impressed with the last 40 minutes of the game last night. Buffalo is a monster of a team when healthy and will be tough to beat, however if any other goalie plays less than spectacular last night vs. OTT, the score could have been 7-8 to 4 in favor of the SENS.

With that said here is my Eastern Conference Predictions, the West is just too hard to predict...

1. Buffalo - could be the champs this year.
2. New York R. - improved and has an easy division.
3. Carolina - will start slow but come around
4. Ottawa - first 10 games will be a growing process but will be strong
5. Philly - they always get there. They have the best coach in hockey
6. Atlanta- Weak on D. Need Goalie to be healthy. Unreal forwards.
7. Boston - Hit or miss. I think they might have it though.
8. NJ- Somehow I think they will BARELY squeeze in.
9. Toronto
10. Montreal
11. Pittsburgh
12. Tampa
13. Washington
13. NYI

Don’t worry about this team, they will come around and when they do, look out, they will be good. Look around the league at some of the top teams too. Nashville, brutal start, Carolina, 0-3…ouch. They will too come around sometimes teams get off to a slow start but will usually rebound with a good finish.

Anyways, that’s it for now, sorry for being so long. Next time will be shorter. Talk to you after the Ott vs. Cal, I will be there like always.

Leave a comment and be nice.

- SI

Countdown to Season....tick/tock

2006-09-29T04:36:00.000-04:00

Ok. Long time since I've posted. I have been at all the Sens Home games thus far and should be at most of the regular season home games too. The teams looks deadly on offence.

Fisher - 2nd line center shoe-in

Hamel - will make the team, so I've heard (cross my fingers and hope so) otherwise he will go through waivers and be lost to another team most likely

Emery and Gerber - Both impressive! Emery I know worked hard in the OFF SEASON to be better and it shows. Gerber looks more and more comfortable too.

Kaigorodov - 23, and still needs MORE developing.

Schubert - will be back on Saturday

McAmmond - looks to be in game shape and eager to go. I like his game and he will be huge for this team.

Corvo - will be back sooner than all of you think.

Defence - has to better defensively. This teams only weakness. Too much offense for defense. They will be ok though, as long as they stay focused.

Volch - Continue to hear Edmonton as a possibility. He looks a lot better from what I saw, his game has gotten more physical finally as he went soft for a bit there. From Edmonton to Ottawa if he goes....your guess is as good as mine.

More posts in the regular season.
Leave a comment and be nice...

GO SENS GO! - SI

Back this week!

2006-09-26T01:56:00.000-04:00

Lots to talk about this week. I've been away again and super busy. I have some good info to share. Look for my post later in the week.

Some of my topics will include:

1. Gerber and Emery, looking good so far
2. Denis Hamel, I've always said he should be on the team
3. Injuries
4. A few trade tidbits....nothing major though.

Talk to you soon.

- S.I.

Trade Winds and Info...

2006-08-29T17:16:00.000-04:00

Well, a lot has transpired over the last 7 days. It has been fun to be a Sens fan because there are lots of rumours being posted about our team for a change.

I hope to put some truth and rest to certain rumours with this post.

First and foremost, I was glad to hear Kaigorodov will be here next year and I 100% guaranteed he would be here and at camp this season in an earlier post I made. He will make a huge impact on the team.

Also, I broke the Volchenkov and partial Chris Kelly rumours long ago, and sure enough trade winds came up in the SUN and on other hockey sites confirming these even further. Yes - they are true - not so much for Chris Kelly, as he would be added incentive to a good trade, but more for Volchenkov. I know a lot of you seem to like the play of Anton, but it is time for him to move on while he still has some trade value and I think the team is taking this approach as well. I can tell you that he is not as highly regarded as he once was. Actually over the years he has dropped his level of play alot and is no longer a huge force on the ice. Moving him to obtain a solid winger makes more than enough sense for this team as they have a lot of defence in their system, some developing - yes - and some ready to play a role. I do expect this move to happen, whether it be before the training camp or during the season, I highly doubt you see Volchenkov here any longer than this season if at all.
As for a trade with Phillips, if anything were to happen, it might be a deadline deal I am told, but he and the team want him in Ottawa and I think he will stay unless an unreal deal comes along that cannot be turned down......

Axelsson to Ottawa would be great, but not very likely, but not impossible either. Boston and Chairelli are asking a lot and it seems that it would be difficult to pull off, but I have heard rumblings that if it were to happen, perhaps it may be way of a 3 team deal, sending Axelsson to Ottawa, a forward to Boston and the likes of Volch. and prospect to another team......

Once again, if you have any questions, feel free to post a comment and I will do my best to answer them. Like I mentioned once the season starts I will continue to post my rumours and inside info, but also add weekly reports and game analysis/thoughts/coverage of the team.

Thats all for now.

- S.I.

Some News and Info....

2006-08-16T09:08:00.000-04:00

Well, its too bad that Ottawa could not come to terms with Greg Johnson, I really wanted him here and hoped that a deal could of been worked out, however Ottawa is deciding to go in a different direction. They had talked, but it never seemed to get 'real close' from what Im told.

The Emery rumour is false, for now. He could be apart of a mid-season/trade deadline deal but I have been told that it is 'highly unlikely' you would see him in another uni this year.

There is no truth to JP Dumont coming to Ottawa, unless he signs somewhere and is traded here right after. All Ottawa moves will be done via trade unless an amazing deal comes along. JP is 'very doubtful' I am told.

From what I am told you will see Serge Payer alot next year on the fourth line, Denis Hamel also. Dean McAmmond will play a pretty important 2nd-3rd line role with this team too.

Volchenkov is being casted as trade bait, lots of interest, we'll see how it works out, I am constantly trying to get more info on it, but it has a tight lid kept on it. Kelly aswell could be moved but very doubtful.

Lastly, I wont be posting as much until the pre-season in which I will be doing game reviews of all games, analysis/thoughts, insider info and reports about the team. The summer has been quite hectic.

Also please feel free to post any questions you may have in the Q&A below. If you don't have anything nice to input, then don't say anything at all, I get some bold comments from people who don't realize that I report what I hear. I am very involved with this team and follow them closer than anyone can imagine, so I do know a lot of what goes on in-front office, on-ice and behind the scenes. Take the info for what its worth, have fun with it as I don't have to do this for anyone, I do it because I like to give real SENS fans an inside glimpse behind the scenes and knowledgable info about the team.

Thanks.

- S.I.

Im Back! Updates and Info

2006-08-03T15:12:00.000-04:00

Well im back! Close to a three week vacation out West, Las Vegas and more. Got back last night, only to find out the Sens made a decent signing, one that I like. From what I learnt today McAmmond will be used throughout the entire line-up. One thing I like about this guy is he brings a veteran presence who carries speed, grit and a strong work ethic. I still like the idea of the Sens adding another guy, who I still believe may be Greg Johnson, especially now that it looks the Kaigorodov deal looks to have fell through, what a shame too. The Sens also signed Serge Payer, a guy whom I've met and will get to play alot this year when called upon. He is also a local prospect too.

They still have some cap space for perhaps another guy at maybe 1MIL/year. We'll see and I will be getting more info soon, got to get out of vacation mode and back on track!

More soon. Ask any questions you would like in the comment area of this post. I will do my best to answer them.

- S.I.

Johnson, RFAs, the 'A', Kaigorodov and Q&A!

2006-07-16T06:54:00.000-04:00

More and more interest is transpiring with Greg Johnson. This guy is someone I would personally love to see wearing a Sens Jersey come the fall. He is a leader, gritty, good on the PK, clutch and fast. I know that Ottawa does see interest in him and at 1MIL per season, how could they not go with him, I know that talks have been held and will carry on through the weekend and into next week. I really do hope Muckler pulls the trigger on this deal. You will hear more about it this week in the media as it is something that will get out.

The RFAs continue to be worked on and they will be taken care before arbitration. For those whom suggested Schaefer is leaving, im pretty sure he is not, I generally don't pry into the home lives of Sens, but because his house is apparently for sale (not sure if its a fact) doesn't mean he is leaving. IF he was, the Sens would be highly compensated via trade as he is sought after come UFA time for him.

I expect Chris Phillips to be wearing the other 'A' next season. I know many of you expect the same, but I did in fact hear some rumblings which lead me to almost confirm he is next.

Kaigorodov will be hear next year, 100% and may very well be playing in a SENS jersey right away. You will hear alot more about him in the coming weeks through the media and myself.

If you have any questions, post a comment to this blog in the comment section and I will do my best to help answer them.

More to follow early in the week.

- S.I.

RFAs & UFAs + Q&A NOW AVAILABLE

2006-07-12T18:18:00.000-04:00

Well, the reports are true, the RFAs have been offered two year contracts. When all is said and done the Sens payroll should be around 40-41MIL, leaving little left over for for the season or perhaps another UFA.

On that note, even though there are various reports about the Sens done shopping, don't believe that, they are still keep an eye out for the right deal at the right price, Eklund broke a report about Greg Johnson, and he is in fact correct, I heard early this week that they Senators have spoke with his agent, not sure about how serious it is, but the Sens are still looking for a gritty forward with leadership and I can assure you he will provide it. Peca is off the list for Ottawa.

Johnson would be a great addition to the team and would come at the right price for the Senators.

If you have any questions, post a comment to this blog in the comment section and I will do my best to help answer them.

Thanks.

- S.I.