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Lukin Back; Taylor to China
Posted June 24, 2008
Blades announced Jarret Lukin's signing today, two and a half months after the bruising forward made an unofficial agreement with GM Craig Brush just days after the season ended.
It'll be good for the team to get Lukin back. Coaches, teammates and fans like him because he works extremely hard and isn't afraid to sacrifice his body. Plus, you look back at his juniors stats: http://www.hockeydb.com/ihdb/stats/pdisplay.php3?pid=55363 ... and the guy has a background during which he could definitely score some points. So it'd be nice for the Blades to get that back next season.
Plus, Lukin is a good guy -- he's good with the fans, he's a good teammate, and whenever I've dealt with him he's always been gracious and kind -- all in all someone the Blades want representing them in the community, regardless of anything that happened before he got here.
As far as his teammates from last season, Lukin didn't sound too certain of any who might be coming back. He said he talked with Brad Herauf a few days ago, after Herauf also returned home to western Canada -- not too far from Lukin's home in Calgary -- but Lukin said Herauf still wasn't sure on his plans for next season. Herauf has expressed a desire to come back, and the team seemed to reflect that back by placing Herauf as a team representative at Cameron's press conference ... but you really never know for sure until the contracts are signed. Especially with Cameron, a new coach, here, deals are not set in stone.
Lukin also said he thought '07-08 captain Ernie Hartlieb "might" come back, but that wasn't definite either.
"It will be different," Lukin said. "But (Brush) and (Cameron) know what they're doing to put this team in the right direction ... I'm excited."
Still waiting on announcements about former Texas forwards Kevin Baker and John McNabb signing with the Blades -- in addition to that elusive "exciting player signing" that Cameron hinted at a few weeks ago ...
In other former Blades news, forward Adam Taylor has signed a contract to play with the Asia League Ice Hockey's China Sharks. He's gotta be the first Blade to go over there. It's a short season too, just 30 games. I haven't talked to Taylor about the deal, but I'm assuming he's getting paid pretty good money to go over there. And hey, he gets to see the world while he's at it.
I'm not sure on the level of hockey there -- I've gotta imagine it's a pretty big culture shock for a young guy from western Canada -- but an interesting development nonetheless. And not surprising as Taylor's NHL contract with the Florida Panthers expired at the end of last season.
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I am sure I speak for most in welcoming Lukin back. The playing field has changed in The ECHL the last few days. Our Division now comprises only 6 teams, and only 4 make the playoffs. So the decisions on what players to try to sign just got a bit more difficult, in my opinion. And each of the 6 teams should be better just because of the numbers game. The pieces of the puzzle that lead to success become much more important than last year, when the playoffs (8 out of 9 teams) were a given. Based on that, I am not in a hurry just to add names to the roster. Next season continues to look more and more like the "new and improved" ECHL to me!
#1 Posted by CUBBUC on June 24, 2008 at 10:23 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Almost forgot...in case you haven't noticed, CUBBUC has not even talked about getting the DRUMS out. The Blades and the other 5 Division teams KNOW they have to be better because there will be far less "easy" games next year. And the rivalries will become even more intense. Mr. Brush and Mr. Cameron both know this. We shall see what happens next!
#2 Posted by CUBBUC on June 24, 2008 at 10:28 p.m. (Suggest removal)
X-Blade now in the Ava's system ! ! ! -----
http://www.oursportscentral.com/servi...
#3 Posted by WYMAN on June 25, 2008 at 6:43 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Larose and Nasty per cane's---------
The Canes intend to issue qualifying offers to all of their restricted free agents except minor-league goalie Kevin Nastiuk. Those offers are due today.
#4 Posted by WYMAN on June 25, 2008 at 8:47 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Forgot ----
RESTRICTED FREE AGENTS
WITH 2007-08 SALARY
Chad LaRose, RW, $500,000 Dennis Seidenberg, D, $850,000
#5 Posted by WYMAN on June 25, 2008 at 8:49 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Welcome back Lukin! Glad to have you!
Surprised about Taylor. The league only has one team in China, several in Japan and in Korea. They will have to fly to every away game. Located in Beijing. It is going to be a world of difference. See where they list Jason Beeman last year who also played for Stockton and Mississippi last year. The hockey database doesn't even list him playing in China. Hmmm.
#6 Posted by luvtheblades on June 25, 2008 at 10:04 a.m. (Suggest removal)
LUKIN back is no suprise...
BHF, CHIP said it perfectly I am just ragged around the edges as you all ready know. If that burns a bridge then WOW....
MFH you are a defense attorney. You probably have an enemy or two. Thanks for the advise but make sure you watch your back as well.
CHIP are you sure you have an oarnge jumpsuit.....
#7 Posted by BUSSYFAN on June 25, 2008 at 7:33 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Chip:
Here's something that would be TOTALLY ironic--
Karl Taylor is no longer HC of the Royals.
Rumor has it since the LA Kings are going to be Ontario's primary affiliate, the Kings are taking Taylor and placing him in Ontario as HC on Friday.
How would Troy Mann in Reading suit you?
I got plenty of purple, black, silver, and white....
#8 Posted by CSA on June 25, 2008 at 7:37 p.m. (Suggest removal)
EDIT:
I meant to say Ontario is going to be LA's primary ECHL affiliate
#9 Posted by CSA on June 25, 2008 at 7:38 p.m. (Suggest removal)
BUSSYFAN/PEPSIMAN:
IS THAT A THREAT, IT MAY GET YOU BANNED FROM THE NDN BLOG...AGAIN!!!!!!!!!
#10 Posted by MFH on June 25, 2008 at 7:43 p.m. (Suggest removal)
CSA I thought you were bleeding blue and green now a days....
BTW how was "the back door" expereince????
#11 Posted by BUSSYFAN on June 25, 2008 at 7:44 p.m. (Suggest removal)
MFH that was not a threat. Read it again I was simply saying to watch your back as well as mine.
BTW I have never been banned from the BLOG before so stop trying to stir the pot.....
#12 Posted by BUSSYFAN on June 25, 2008 at 7:46 p.m. (Suggest removal)
I "Believe" that PEPSIMAN was BANNED last year......
You are starting to sound like the STINKRAY Fans..
#13 Posted by MFH on June 25, 2008 at 9:24 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Welcome back Lukin!
I'm back in SW Florida, So CUBBUC, your Cubies are going to have to fend for themselves again.
Taylor in China???? Now that don't make sense. Watch him be back in Green and Blue before the season is over.
#14 Posted by hambling on June 25, 2008 at 9:29 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Could it be that GF will be on the west coast tomorrow ? ? ? ?
http://www.ontarioprohockey.com/news/...
#15 Posted by WYMAN on June 26, 2008 at 11:21 a.m. (Suggest removal)
So far we'll receive from the ---
Cains -- Nick Dodge, Brett Bellemore, Justin McCrae, and Chris Terry
CAT'S -- Brady Calla, Mike Duco,Matt Rust and Michael Caruso, maybe Keaton Ellerby
Can't find a goalie---BUT---Matbe Kevin Nastiuk ? ? ? ?
What do you think -- MC !!!!
#16 Posted by WYMAN on June 26, 2008 at 3:13 p.m. (Suggest removal)
WYMAN is this a logical guess on your part or do you have an inside source...
CHIP, UJ and myself will be creating havoc tonight. MFH make sure your cell in on overnight....
AB I beleive many blogs ago you said LUKIN was going to the land down under for a summertime hockey camp. If he signed I am assuming he is back in town???
"O" town was awesome. Blue Man Group rocked the house. The clubs were kickin as well...
#17 Posted by BUSSYFAN on June 26, 2008 at 3:56 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Could it be that GF will be on the west coast tomorrow ? ? ? ?
http://www.ontarioprohockey.com/news/...
#15 Posted by WYMAN on June 26, 2008 at 11:21 a.m. (Suggest removal)
----------------------------------------------------
No.
It will be Karl Taylor
#18 Posted by CSA on June 26, 2008 at 3:57 p.m. (Suggest removal)
AB I beleive many blogs ago you said LUKIN was going to the land down under for a summertime hockey camp. If he signed I am assuming he is back in town???
#17 Posted by BUSSYFAN
----------------------------------------------------
He's prolly been signed for a while now Bussy
They just decided to announce it now.
Expect more of the same to help offset the silly season
That is a signing announcement every other week to help with the summer doldrums
#19 Posted by CSA on June 26, 2008 at 4:37 p.m. (Suggest removal)
is this a logical guess on your part or do you have an inside source...
#20 Posted by WYMAN on June 26, 2008 at 4:39 p.m. (Suggest removal)
CSA I thought you were bleeding blue and green now a days....
BTW how was "the back door" expereince????
#11 Posted by BUSSYFAN on June 25, 2008 at 7:44 p.m. (Suggest removal)
--------------------------------------------
I will be sporting the blue and green Bussy, quite proudly.
That doesnt change the fact I have plenty of Reading jerseys
If Mann does become head coach up there I'll pay attention to whats going on.
But since the Blades got Cameron, my primary focus stays in Estero.
Imagine what Chip would say if the Blades and a Mann lead Royals team squared off the the conference finals and the Royals win.
We'd NEVER hear the end of it
#21 Posted by CSA on June 26, 2008 at 4:42 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Wyman, a little of both.
Again, the LA Kings are in the process changing their primary ECHL affiliate from Reading to Ontario because of logistics. Much like the Panthers/Everblades
There is also talk of creating a west coast division of the AHL with several east coast AHL teams going west to create the new division. It makes all the sense in the world
Getting back to the ECHL, Ontario, and Taylor, Taylor got the job in Reading after attending the LA Kings developmental camp 3 years ago.
The Kings have been pleased with Taylors efforts developing talent.
Combine the above with this quote:
"Taylor is expected to be hired by another ECHL team. He said he was restricted from commenting on his next position."
http://www.readingeagle.com/article.a...
Slam dunk.
#22 Posted by CSA on June 26, 2008 at 4:51 p.m. (Suggest removal)
I should have quoted this WYMAN:
"It's a mutual agreement," Taylor said. "I will not be unemployed very long. It's a mutual agreement, and I will be going someplace else."
Taylor is expected to be hired by another ECHL team. He said he was restricted from commenting on his next position.
#23 Posted by CSA on June 26, 2008 at 4:57 p.m. (Suggest removal)
FWIW:
How fortunate are the Royals to have both Troy Mann and John Marks available?
If they want a trip down memory lane, Derek Clancey is still available, too
VERY fortunate
#24 Posted by CSA on June 26, 2008 at 4:59 p.m. (Suggest removal)
CSA we are going to need a lot more than a signing once a week to keep my hockey withdrawl nerves at bay.
While some of you run off of diesel I run off of high octane jet fuel. I am always on the go!!!
4 posts in a row CSA. Karen who??? LOL
#25 Posted by BUSSYFAN on June 26, 2008 at 5:10 p.m. (Suggest removal)
FLEMING...Chicago WOLVES
#26 Posted by MFH on June 26, 2008 at 6:10 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Lojek, Larman and Meyer signed by the Florida Panthers. Three former Blades still have a chance of the big time. Can't find the link on NP but saw it in transactions in the back.
#27 Posted by luvtheblades on June 26, 2008 at 7:31 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Why the Fleming to the Wolves sentiment, MFH?
If an ECHL coach was going to get that job based off promotion, it should be Jeff Pyle who's been in the Thrashers/Wolves pipeline for years
#28 Posted by CSA on June 26, 2008 at 7:39 p.m. (Suggest removal)
How about Fleming in Reading?
#29 Posted by CSA on June 26, 2008 at 7:43 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Lukin told me at the end of the season that he was going down to Australia -- but he didn't end up going and he's been back in Calgary for awhile.
As for the list of players the Blades will get from their affiliates -- I think it might be a bit generous given that the Canes and Panthers each have their own AHL affiliate now. I think the Blades would be incredibly lucky to see all those guys down here next season. But we'll see ... before someone asks I'm just basing that on past years, when granted, Carolina did have a lot of NHL injuries.
Oh and as for goalies -- with David Shantz and Tyler Plante still on the Panthers' payroll, expect to see one of them in Estero pretty much full-time. The Amerks are looking to sign a veteran goalie -- Randy Sexton has been quoted saying Roch needs a veteran GK and he's not sure Plante and Shantz would be able to carry the load there.
AB
#30 Posted by ABusch on June 26, 2008 at 7:45 p.m. (Suggest removal)
AB...A Veteran Goalie...if only THAT could happen in Estero...One VETERAN..one AFFILIATE Goalie....A true Recipe for SUCCESS!!!!!
#31 Posted by CUBBUC on June 26, 2008 at 8:22 p.m. (Suggest removal)
And as always for the few uninformed Bloggers....A VETERAN GOALIE does NOT count against the Blades Veteran Maximum...
#32 Posted by CUBBUC on June 26, 2008 at 8:25 p.m. (Suggest removal)
ANGIE:
Are you out of "Medical Care"...........
#33 Posted by MFH on June 26, 2008 at 10:27 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Yes -- I wasn't there for me, thanks.
I am in Minnesota for the Associated Press Sports Editors convention. Having a good time up here :)
AB
#34 Posted by ABusch on June 27, 2008 at 12:34 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Good reading---------------
http://www.nhl.com/nhl/app?articleid=...
#35 Posted by WYMAN on June 27, 2008 at 6:38 a.m. (Suggest removal)
as long as we are guessing.....
GF to Mass. as Asst.
Cubbuc careful what you wish for.
#36 Posted by SDW on June 27, 2008 at 8:37 a.m. (Suggest removal)
AB thanks for the info, have a great time at your old stomping grounds....
MFH please do not leave me any more threats on my voicemail. From what I hear you need to concentrate on your golf game. BTW did you hit any fairways/greens... LOL
I dont want to see Larman, Meyer or Lojek back here. Just my preference.
I would like to see PLANTE and PETERS back here again. I thought they were becoming a really good tandam before they got broke up.
I said last year that we did not have a chance without them.
CSA can go back and find that post. :)
Off to Pleasures of the Flesh....
#37 Posted by BUSSYFAN on June 27, 2008 at 11:38 a.m. (Suggest removal)
GF will be the back up mascot for the AMERKS....
#38 Posted by BUSSYFAN on June 27, 2008 at 11:39 a.m. (Suggest removal)
A different prospective to read-----
http://www.nhl.com/nhl/app/?service=p...
#39 Posted by WYMAN on June 27, 2008 at 3:40 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Bussy- MFH with yet another clutch putt on the 18th to take the BIG money.
#40 Posted by Chip on June 27, 2008 at 4:38 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Chip, MFH winning money on the 18th? That sounds a lot like GAMBLING...yikes, a crime. The great defense lawyer, former prosecutor, would not do something like that, now would he? I am SURE that I am just misunderstanding what you were saying. You need to be more careful with those type of public postings. :>)
#41 Posted by hambling on June 27, 2008 at 5:08 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Yes Ham..........once AGAIN you are misunderstanding. It must be getting frustrating, yes? I'll type slower, just for you, from now on.
#42 Posted by Chip on June 27, 2008 at 5:47 p.m. (Suggest removal)
CSA, you were right... http://www.ontarioprohockey.com/news/
Maybe GF ends up in Reading
#43 Posted by hook_em on June 27, 2008 at 6:08 p.m. (Suggest removal)
OK SDW...I'll bite. What do you mean as far as "careful for what you wish for" regarding A Veteran Goalie? I have been pushing for the Veteran/Affiliate Goalie Combo for quite awhile. So give me your views...I am ready to Debate you head to head on the subject. "Be careful for what you wish for"???? Your turn SDW...I will respond when you are through.
#44 Posted by CUBBUC on June 27, 2008 at 6:37 p.m. (Suggest removal)
HAM,
You are EXACTLY right there was a wager and like the norm MFH came through....
#45 Posted by MFH on June 27, 2008 at 6:49 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Time for another night out on the town....
#46 Posted by BUSSYFAN on June 27, 2008 at 8:02 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Cubbuc... wasnt ment as a poke just that you want a vet goalie but you might not like the one we would get. there are a few running loose out there, which one would you like to see here?
I agree that we would be better off with one but is that really up to us or are we just stuck with what the NHL send us??
Bussy
Tyler & Peters will not make a return trip to SWFL this season they will both stick in the A, it would sure be sweet though.
#47 Posted by SDW on June 28, 2008 at 9 a.m. (Suggest removal)
CSA, you were right... http://www.ontarioprohockey.com/news/
Maybe GF ends up in Reading
#43 Posted by hook_em on June 27, 2008 at 6:08 p.m. (Suggest removal)
----------------------------------------------------
I had a heads up from someone up in PurpleTown, too, to be honest.
Even though the Royals job is still open, I dont see him going up there.
As a matter of fact, it couldnt be a WORSE fit.
I honestly believe Gerry Fleming would get absolutely get eaten alive by the fan base in Reading.
If GF though it was rough here....Reading is an hour north of Philly and the Philly mentality is alive and well in Reading
I still dont see GF returing to the ECHL next year.
He'll either be an assistant in the AHL or go to one of the multitude of Canadian Junior leagues
#48 Posted by CSA on June 28, 2008 at 9:35 a.m. (Suggest removal)
SDW I agree neither of them will be here, just some wishfull thinking. It sure would be nice though....
CHIP I am glad you are letting a PRO do the work around your shack....
MFH what did you guys do after BLU SUSHI...
#49 Posted by BUSSYFAN on June 28, 2008 at 12:50 p.m. (Suggest removal)
There are only three "Major Junior" hockey leagues in Canada; Ontario Hockey League (20 teams), Quebec Major Junior Hockey League (18 teams), and Western Hockey League (22 teams). There is a myriad of provincial hockey leagues and tier two junior hockey leagues, but for GF to wind up anywhere than in the major junior leagues would be a serious demotion.
#50 Posted by KUGAR27 on June 28, 2008 at 3:58 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Interesting article...
www.echl.com/cgi-bin/mpublic.cgi?action=show_news&cat=1&id=15516
#51 Posted by BUSSYFAN on June 28, 2008 at 4:04 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Bussyfan - You are right that was an interesting article.
BTW - I know sometimes you "young-uns" find things difficult, so I think if you ask nicely, Wyman, would be willing to help you out with the technically difficult art of posting a link.
#52 Posted by hambling on June 28, 2008 at 4:21 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Lightning making some early free agent moves. Also getting ready to sign Lecavalier to 77 million deal.
http://lightning.nhl.com/team/app/?se...
http://www.cbc.ca/sports/hockey/story...
#53 Posted by centerice on June 28, 2008 at 5:48 p.m. (Suggest removal)
CENTERICE thanks for the links. It looks like the Lightning are looking to put a good team on the ice.
Roberts Malone and Vinny are a good start if they can sign all three.
HAM I have been busy today go to echl.com and look for the SOCO article about KISER.
#54 Posted by BUSSYFAN on June 28, 2008 at 8:25 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Pepsiman/Bussy,
Maybe you can "splurge" and get rid of that old ratty looking BOLTS Jersey you have.
ANGIE,
Are you going to be doing any local angles/coverage of the Olympics...
EURO CUP:
Must watch at 2:30 today...
GO GERMANY...........
btw, Karin you can post all day long for this game....
#55 Posted by MFH on June 29, 2008 at 9:49 a.m. (Suggest removal)
GOOOOOO GERMANY!!!!
MFH I am actually having a couple people over for the game. It should be a good one. Burgers and dogs dips and chips booze and chicks = fun.
Lightning jersey is NOT going anywhere. Thats not even an option.
Time to get my German soccer jersey on....
#56 Posted by BUSSYFAN on June 29, 2008 at 12:52 p.m. (Suggest removal)
BALLACK is the wild card today. His health will play a big part in determining the outcome of this game.
CHIP my old man has an extra fridge if you still need it...
#57 Posted by BUSSYFAN on June 29, 2008 at 2:11 p.m. (Suggest removal)
LAHM let up at the end....
TORRES kept chugging along...
1-0 Spain....
Plenty of time still...
#58 Posted by BUSSYFAN on June 29, 2008 at 3:20 p.m. (Suggest removal)
MFH they need to "let the boys play"...
Time for another cocktail and some more grub...
#59 Posted by BUSSYFAN on June 29, 2008 at 3:27 p.m. (Suggest removal)
4 posts in a row for Bussyfan?
#60 Posted by hambling on June 29, 2008 at 10:52 p.m. (Suggest removal)
HAM that was for Karen and the German National Team....
#61 Posted by BUSSYFAN on June 29, 2008 at 11 p.m. (Suggest removal)
http://www.echl.com/cgi-bin/mpublic.c...
Here is a blast from the past....
He was quoted saying "ladies dont like facial hair" one year in the playoffs. He could not grow any so I guess thats what I would have said as well. LOL
#62 Posted by BUSSYFAN on June 30, 2008 at 12:51 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Very interesting and new rules------------
http://www.pjstar.com/sports/x8447683...
#63 Posted by WYMAN on June 30, 2008 at 6:32 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Maybe we'll see this player in camp ????
http://www.hockeydb.com/ihdb/stats/pd...
Things really LOONIE up north
http://www.nhl.com/nhl/app?articleid=...
#64 Posted by WYMAN on June 30, 2008 at 7:50 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Very interesting and new rules------------
http://www.pjstar.com/sports/x8447683...
--------------------------------------------
Delay of game now is an automatic minor penalty when any player or goaltender, while in his defending zone, shoots the puck directly out of the playing surface.
-----------------------------------------------------
I HATED his rule when it was implemented a few years ago.
They took it away for 2 seasons and now its shows its ugly head again.
MC had better make certain his defense is very decisive in its own D-zone and gets the puck out quickly.
On the other hand, if MC's team is as decisive and ultra quick in transition as his previous versions, this could be a weapon.
As has been mentioned here, MC's teams are adept stick handlers and fiercely contest the puck along the boards especially in the offensive zone.
Good hands are a necessity in Mallie's system. Revert back to the Justin Bowers article for further confirmation
#65 Posted by CSA on June 30, 2008 at 9:10 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Maybe we'll see this player in camp ????
http://www.hockeydb.com/ihdb/stats/pd...
#64 Posted by WYMAN on June 30, 2008 at 7:50 a.m. (Suggest removal)
---------------------------------------------------
WYMAN, looking at his stats, he would be a very intriguing player
Size wise, he'e a great fit for MC. Cammie likes big defensemen with long reaches and Olson would certainly fit the mold.
Edge wise, with over 600 PIM the last 3 seasons combined with 266 last year alone, he'd certainly be a crowd pleaser and the SOB defenseman CUBBUC and I have been begging for for years.
ESPECIALLY if/when Myles Stoesz somes to town
#66 Posted by CSA on June 30, 2008 at 9:24 a.m. (Suggest removal)
CSA: The article regarding the "delay of game" penalty was a reference to the AHL. I have not seen that it is being reinstituted in the ECHL. Of course since the ECHL usually bows at the altar of Gary Bettman, it could return here.
#67 Posted by hambling on June 30, 2008 at 10:25 a.m. (Suggest removal)
GF found a home----------------------
http://www.echl.com/cgi-bin/mpublic.c...
Sorry AB
#68 Posted by WYMAN on June 30, 2008 at 3:22 p.m. (Suggest removal)
So much for the WOLVES, MFH.....
I dont care what the rules are at this point I just want to watch some flippin hockey.
#69 Posted by BUSSYFAN on June 30, 2008 at 4:03 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Good for GF....His patience paid off.
#70 Posted by CSA on June 30, 2008 at 6:01 p.m. (Suggest removal)
First positive thing you said about -- GF -- in the last few years---WOW---
#71 Posted by WYMAN on June 30, 2008 at 6:28 p.m. (Suggest removal)
New blog posted ...
#72 Posted by ABusch on June 30, 2008 at 7:45 p.m. (Suggest removal)
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