Canada's national capital region is living it's second storm of 2009, so is La Belle Province. That usually spells hockey weather, well so to speak. Hockey, espacially NHL, that means the tradedeadline, rumours and of course, let's us not forget the good old salary cap. In the coming weeks, you will hear, read and write about them. Now I know that you are all smart people, and can fish out a dumb rumour when you hear or read one. When reading or hearing a rumour, look at the possible players involved on both sides, the needs of both teams and of course, cap wise, does it make sense. If you think it sounds good, go see if someone else is talking or writing about it. If you do, then you there is a chance it has legs to stand on and may happen, if not, pass and move on. Ok well let's take a look at what is out there.
There is no direct link between Keith Tkachuk or any team directly or indirectly, but speculation on where his services could be needed or could be a good fit. Boston is mentionned as destination, but do they need him ? Possible. He has never been a real playoff performer. Remember the tradedeadline two years ago ? That was a bust. If I'm a Gm I would think twice about any kind trade involving Tkachuk. Remember Atlanta got shafted two years in a row with either purchasing or a selling a UFA. I'm not saying he would be a bust, just beware.
And no, Lecavalier won't be traded at the deadline.It's a question of the Lightning ownership coming to an agreement to do it or not, for one, and two, cap space to absorb the remaining of this year's contract, and of course the new one that comes in to effect on July 1st. This will give the Lightning brass three and a half months to decide if they pull the trigger or not. Once the playoffs over, we all know what teams will have on their agendas, the draft, oh by the way it's in Montreal this year, how interesting. If your the Lightning brass, you kind cheer the Montreal Canadiens on during the playoffs, and hope that they win the Cup. Why you say ? Well, then they will say, ''why do they do need vinny ? '' Good point, buit on the other hand, if they make an another second round exit, you cant bet your Canadiens jersey that the heat will be on for sure, on both sides. The Canadiens needing Vinny, and for the lightning getting true value if they sit down with George Gillett and Bob Gainey.
It should be an interesting next four weeks, other than in Tampa Bay, or maybe not.
