Part 1: http://hfboards.com/showthread.php?t=534598

F1rst!!!1

4-4 now. Swift with another PPG.

Swift with 8 shots so far, what a gem.

Halischuk's goal was unassisted - turnover?

Swift having a monster game.

Swift having a monster game.
We're really good at that whole undrafted free agent thing.

Is anyone watching this game?

1. Swift is the man.

2. Halischuk is playing?!??/1/1?!/?!?!?!??!??!? Hooooly ****! (John Belushi from Animal House voice)

3. Not our best goaltending display.

We're really good at that whole undrafted free agent thing.

We should just trade draft picks 3-7 every year and sign 5 players after the draft.

We're really good at that whole undrafted free agent thing.

Some kids can just play. It's the same in the football draft. Being a Broncos fan, I can attest to the success that Wesley Woodyard had as an undrafted rookie this year. He was a beast on special teams all year and ended up being one of the best rookie linebackers in the year from about week 9 on when he was inserted into the lineup. I absolutely hate project picks in both sports. Just draft kids that love to play and are good at it.

Is anyone watching this game?

1. Swift is the man.

2. Halischuk is playing?!??/1/1?!/?!?!?!??!??!? Hooooly ****! (John Belushi from Animal House voice)

3. Not our best goaltending display.
Do you have a video or radio feed for Lowell games?

Lowell lost 5-4, but that was an impressive comeback after being down 4-1. Frazee blew it for them by letting in 3 goals in the first, 2 of which came in the last 5 minutes.

Anssi had an assist on the PP tonight and was a +2. He also had 5 shots on goal. He seems to be getting adjusted to the NA game since he went from being a -6 two weeks ago to being a +1 tonight. He was not on the ice for any even strength GA as far as I know. I wouldn't be surprised if he is a late season call up like Greene was in 06-07.

Do you have a video or radio feed for Lowell games?

Nah, I was just basing those observations off of the box score.

Do you have a video or radio feed for Lowell games?

tonight there was no radio feed for lowell, something musta happened cuz Ryan normally does ALL the games, and I think his fam lives in the area so I doubt he woulda missed that trip! theahl.com normally has links to the radio feeds.

oh well, good display by the kids tonight.

let's hope frazee isn't shaken up by that, we all know how it went in minnesota because of confidence issues, hopefully he puts up another solid performance next game and keeps it up.

oh well, good display by the kids tonight.

let's hope frazee isn't shaken up by that, we all know how it went in minnesota because of confidence issues, hopefully he puts up another solid performance next game and keeps it up.

He'll be fine. There were a lot of other things going on in Minny besides just confidence issues.

Lowell lost 5-4, but that was an impressive comeback after being down 4-1. Frazee blew it for them by letting in 3 goals in the first, 2 of which came in the last 5 minutes.

Anssi had an assist on the PP tonight and was a +2. He also had 5 shots on goal. He seems to be getting adjusted to the NA game since he went from being a -6 two weeks ago to being a +1 tonight. He was not on the ice for any even strength GA as far as I know. I wouldn't be surprised if he is a late season call up like Greene was in 06-07.

The two goals Frazee gave up late in the first were on a 2 minute five on three when Swift got 2 for hooking and DiSalvatore 2 for unsportsmanlike conduct at the same time. Philly scored after 14 seconds (Briere running a 5 on 3 in the AHL makes that unsurprising) then 53 seconds later on the subsequent 5 on 4.

A further power play goal on Caruso, set up by Briere again, early in the second made it 4-1. The Phantoms then served five straight penalties (co-incidence or even up refereeing, I don't know) and Swift scored 2 on the powerplays as they tied it up.

Didnt someone go to the game? Can we get a report and maybe some line combos too? Thanks.

EDIT: After checking the other thread I see it was Lou's Koolaid that went. If we could get a recap and the line combos that would be great

Swifty is the man. 13 points in his last 9 games (7 goals, 6 assists).

Bergfors has already equaled his assist total from last year in roughly a third of the games. He's still four goals short of his total from last year and nine from his career high.

He has 23 points, 17 short of his career high of 40, set in his rookie year.

Glad to see him back on track.

http://gfx.aftonbladet.se/multimedia/archive/00772/bergfors_772477w.jpg

A pat on the head for you, Nicklas.

Edit: To add to this mancrush of a post, he has a six game point streak going and 8 points in his last 8 games (2g, 6a).

I dozed off earlier and had a dream that the only reason Bergfors wasn't getting a shot was because Lou has OCD and wanted a Swedish line out there. That's why he drafted Tedenby and that's why he's going to draft a Swedish center in this year's draft. In that same dream, the Devils played an outdoor game in Vegas. My head hurts.

I dozed off earlier and had a dream that the only reason Bergfors wasn't getting a shot was because Lou has OCD and wanted a Swedish line out there. That's why he drafted Tedenby and that's why he's going to draft a Swedish center in this year's draft. In that same dream, the Devils played an outdoor game in Vegas. My head hurts.

Jacob Josefsen would be an awesome pick. :yo:

Lowell got shut out tonight, 3-0.

Lowell got shut out tonight, 3-0.

:facepalm:

awww

Jacob Josefsen would be an awesome pick. :yo:

Jacob Josefsen is slotted as a 20-25 pick too, which is very possible and easy to trade up from the #30 spot.

;)

Bergfors has already equaled his assist total from last year in roughly a third of the games. He's still four goals short of his total from last year and nine from his career high.

He has 23 points, 17 short of his career high of 40, set in his rookie year.

Glad to see him back on track.

http://gfx.aftonbladet.se/multimedia/archive/00772/bergfors_772477w.jpg

A pat on the head for you, Nicklas.

Edit: To add to this mancrush of a post, he has a six game point streak going and 8 points in his last 8 games (2g, 6a).

Great post.

That picture could make a very funny caption.

anyone know how salmelas fight went?

anyone know how salmelas fight went?

Hopefully nothing like this one.

rKgesqKw9aA

Hopefully nothing like this one.

rKgesqKw9aA




haha agree...

i hope he did remember to drop the stick and gloves this time.. haha

Great post.

That picture could make a very funny caption.

http://gfx.aftonbladet.se/multimedia/archive/00772/bergfors_772477w.jpg

White: "When you go to sleep tonight I'm going to rip that eye right out of your face."

http://gfx.aftonbladet.se/multimedia/archive/00772/bergfors_772477w.jpg

White: "When you go to sleep tonight I'm going to rip that eye right out of your face."

White: "Nice goal Zach."

White: "Nice goal Zach."

:eek::facepalm:

haha agree...

i hope he did remember to drop the stick and gloves this time.. haha


who's the US guy applying the beating?

who's the US guy applying the beating?

David Backes - St.Louis Blues

FYI, Salmela was bleeding so badly because something happened to his nose prior to the fight, and any contact with it would cause a severe nose bleed.

David Backes - St.Louis Blues

thanks!

Eight shots for Bergfors in last night's 2-1 win over Portland. DiSalvatore from Bergfors and Salmela and Davis on the PP from DiSalvatore and Eckford picked up the goals. Frazee the winner in net.

33 saves on 34, impressive once again.

So when are they going to give this Salmela guy another chance? He seems pretty good.

So when are they going to give this Salmela guy another chance? He seems pretty good.

With Greene playing largely average hockey i think it may be soon.

Eight shots for Bergfors in last night's 2-1 win over Portland. DiSalvatore from Bergfors and Salmela and Davis on the PP from DiSalvatore and Eckford picked up the goals. Frazee the winner in net.

Bergfors is awesome. And Frazee is awesomer.

Yeah...I think Salmela could be up soon too. The Devils might call him up when the roster limit gets lifted after the deadline or so...so we might see him then.

I think Lou will find a taker for Brookbank á la Sean Brown to Vancouver...

With Greene playing largely average hockey i think it may be soon.

I'd be open to it.

Greene has been OK. He's been solid on the backend, but I've been disappointed in the lack of offensive production. I don't think he deserves to be getting time on the PP units right now.

Why isn't Brookbank or Leach in Lowell? They could be helping them out...no need to have them both sit in the box.

Why isn't Brookbank or Leach in Lowell? They could be helping them out...no need to have them both sit in the box.
Brookbank because he'd have to go through waivers. I don't know why Leach isn't in Lowell, it doesn't make a lot of sense to me.

I don't know why Leach isn't in Lowell, it doesn't make a lot of sense to me.

Me neither, because he should be skating in Andy Greene's spot*.


*Though I'd rather see Salmela called up

Whats with Zharkov and Vasyunov? NO points in a while. No pp tome maybe? Vasyunov started hot, scored some beauties too, then fell off? I thought for sure he would dominate.

Whats with Zharkov and Vasyunov? NO points in a while. No pp tome maybe? Vasyunov started hot, scored some beauties too, then fell off? I thought for sure he would dominate.
He was dominating. It's hard to know what happened when you see so few games...

Frazee's long-term potential as the future No. 1 netminder in New Jersey is now in question. While there is no doubting his talent level, Frazee's mental lapses and inconsistent play have prevented him from realizing his full potential. The Devils almost had no choice but sign Frazee over the summer because of how his season ended in Minnesota, and they hope the change of scenery, plus a fresh start will benefit him. He may back up Scott Clemmensen in the AHL this season.
Wtf is a mental lapse?

Wtf is a mental lapse?

I guess, making the AHL all-star game = mental lapse.

Wtf is a mental lapse?

This:

C4kxS1ksqtw

Brookbank because he'd have to go through waivers. I don't know why Leach isn't in Lowell, it doesn't make a lot of sense to me.
Pretty sure Leach would have to clear waivers too. If the Devils really didn't want to lose him to waivers and wanted to keep the extra roster spot available they could have sent him down when the d started getting healthy. But the limit of days and games passed, so I think he would have to clear waivers. Unlike Brookbank, I'm not sure he'd need to clear re-entry waivers.

To BG---not sure what Greene has been doing wrong. He's had a couple bad games but he's better than Leach. And since coming back from injury he's been a lot more willing to play the body and take hits to make a play.

As for Frazee's mental lapses---the Bina goal wasn't even his worst mental lapse. He had two worse ones against SCSU (only one counted, the other he was saved by the buzzer) in his junior year, and didn't see the ice again that year. Based purely on his talent, his AHL numbers aren't a huge surprise. Based on his play at Minnesota--especially his last year--his strong play is shocking.

So far this season I think that some of the prospects on the farm have had ok to good seasons in terms of development. I really hope that they have a good run towards the end of the season and make the playoffs in the AHL.

Pretty sure Leach would have to clear waivers too. If the Devils really didn't want to lose him to waivers and wanted to keep the extra roster spot available they could have sent him down when the d started getting healthy. But the limit of days and games passed, so I think he would have to clear waivers. Unlike Brookbank, I'm not sure he'd need to clear re-entry waivers.

To BG---not sure what Greene has been doing wrong. He's had a couple bad games but he's better than Leach. And since coming back from injury he's been a lot more willing to play the body and take hits to make a play.

As for Frazee's mental lapses---the Bina goal wasn't even his worst mental lapse. He had two worse ones against SCSU (only one counted, the other he was saved by the buzzer) in his junior year, and didn't see the ice again that year. Based purely on his talent, his AHL numbers aren't a huge surprise. Based on his play at Minnesota--especially his last year--his strong play is shocking.
Leach would not. He makes under the minimum salary required to be waiver eligible. He didn't have to clear coming up, he doesn't have to clear going back down. I'm pretty sure this is true.

I guess, making the AHL all-star game = mental lapse.

that has to be one old article about him when he finished his season backing up alex "are you kidding me" kangas in a wrecked bad season.

definitely has turned it around.

Leach would not. He makes under the minimum salary required to be waiver eligible. He didn't have to clear coming up, he doesn't have to clear going back down. I'm pretty sure this is true.
The minimum salary applies only to re-entry waivers. Since he's played over 10 games/spent 30 days on an NHL roster since clearing waivers at the beginning of the season, he would have to clear waivers to be sent down. I don't think he would be subject to re-entry waivers, though (which would put the devils on the hook for half his salary and cap hit for the remainder of the contract).

http://nhlscap.com/waivers.htm

I ordered the Lowell-Hartford game online, Ill let you guys know what I think at some point. This will be the first Lowell game Ive ever watched.

I ordered the Lowell-Hartford game online, Ill let you guys know what I think at some point. This will be the first Lowell game Ive ever watched.

Thanks man. Should be a good one!

2nd intermission tied 1-1. Here are the lines (for the most part):

Murphy-Mills-Bergfors
Disalvatore-Swift-Halischuk
Vasyunov-Pelley-Tallackson
Leblond-Davis-Gionta

Salmela-Magnan
Fraser-Corrente
Spiller-Eckford

D pairings are mixed alot but thats what I saw most. Disappointed not to see Zharkov. Bergfors and Vasyunov playing with 2 scrubs:shakehead but I guess its because the center depth sucks with Rheaume and Vrana hurt. Mills won a fight and then Leblond fought someone off the next faceoff - fight was probably a draw. Here are the PP/PK lines:

PP1
Bergfors-Swift-Halischuk
Disalvatore-Salmela

PP2
Vasyunov-Pelley-Tallackson
Corrente-Eckford

PK forward pairings (D were scrambled):
Pelley-Murphy
Mills-Disalvatore
Davis-Gionta



Ill post my comments after the game

Ill post my comments after the game

Forget the comments for now, but who scored for us??

Murphy unassisted and Fraser from Davis and Gionta. 2-1 Devils

You can always find the current day's score sheets here (http://stats.theahl.com/stats/schedule.php). Also every game's audio feed is live here (http://ahl.neulion.com/team/console.jsp?team=LOW). So you don't have to wait for a reply.

Devils pulled it off, thanks to Tallackson! 3-2 win!

PS -- this was a great night for fights. The write-up should be fun.

Game just ended. Was a penalty fest which was unfortunate. Ill summarize the goals and a few other things.

Hartford scored first right off of an offensive zone faceoff. Point shot that just went right through Frazee, although he was screened. Lowell announcer said it might have deflected off Spiller. Kind of a fluky goal.

On the same shift, the line of Murphy-Mills-Bergfors answered back a minute later. They scored due to some hard forchecking and good work down low. Eventually, the forecheck of Bergfors caused a Hartford defenseman to cough it up right to Murphy, who scored on a Clarkaround. LOL

Lowell took a 2-1 lead again off some good forechecking. This time it was the 4th line of Leblond-Davis-Gionta. Davis had the puck in front and it was poked off his stick right to Fraser. Fraser got a quick, pretty weak shot that went in on the goalie five hole. Credit should go to Leblond for providing the screen.

In the third Lowell got into some penalty trouble, and at one point were down 5 on 3 for over a minute and a half. Disalvatore, Fraser, and Spiller did an excellent job of killing it along with Frazee. Unfortunately, Hartford scored after the first penalty expired. Magnan and a forward (didnt catch who) both went to the same guy up high along the boards. Corrente got caught with some poor positioning as he got sucked to the same half of the ice, and the puck squirted in front to a Hartford player who was all alone. Frazee made the initial stop but a Wolfpack player scored on the rebound following up the play.

Barry Tallackson scored the game winning goal off the rush after some nice moves by Vasyunov. Vasyunov got the puck inside the blueline and did a few nice moves to cross up the defenseman before letting a shot go. The goalie let up a rebound and Tallackson chipped it into the back of the net.


Some other notes from the game:

-Frazee was by far the best Lowell player out there. He looked very calm and was really impressive.

-The PK was good, the PP was hot or cold. A few good PPs, but a couple dreadful ones.

-I thought the line that had the best shifts out there was Disalvatore-Swift-Halischuk. Ironically they were the only line not to produce a goal.

-With a few minutes left, Spiller and a Wolfpack player fought and Spiller just dropped him with a left.

-The bad news was no one stood out to me very much at all offensively. I thought Lowell's best and most consistent skater was Disalvatore. Swift looked pretty good. Everyone else was average or just showed flashes. Davis had some noticeable chances despite playing on the 4th line, but didnt finish any and took some dumb penalties. He was good on the forecheck though. I paid attention to some players more than others (Bergfors, Vasyunov, Halischuk, Eckford, Corrente, Salmela). I'll give some player reviews now.


Bergfors - Worked hard, good on the forecheck. Not any flashy moves. He was kind of quiet tonight. May have had to do with his linemates. Id say he was average, but it looks like hes improving in some less noticeable aspects of the game which is what he needs to do.

Vasyunov - Very flashy. Made some nice moves offensively, but also some dumb plays. For example, a drop pass straight to a Wolfpack player on the rush. He could use more hockey sense, but keep in mind he is still adjusting to the North American game.

Halischuk - Good hockey sense, but didnt do much offensively this game. Looked really good setting up the power play. Had his best chance off a rebound in front on the PP. Had 4 shots. Willing to go to the net. Smart player and definitely future NHLer.

Corrente - Got caught out of position on the PK on the 2nd goal. Turned the puck over on his only rush. Put some good shots toward the net. Decent on the PP but nothing special. Overall not as impressive as I would have liked.

Eckford - Played a simple game, nothing flashy. Ripped a pretty nice shot on net. Good instincts on PP, and seemed pretty good positionally.

Salmela - Not his best game. He honestly impressed me more in the NHL. Not great on the PP, didnt let his shot go enough. Not anything special defensively.

Swift - Noticed him although I wasnt specifically watching. Smart player, good hockey sense. Plays a simple game. Some good chances on the PP. Created a decent amount offensively.

Id say I was most impressed with: (in this order)
1. Frazee
2. Disalvatore
3. Swift
4. Eckford

Overall I was pretty disappointed none of the prospects amazed me, except maybe Frazee. None of our prospects are near the level where they can dominate an AHL game. Then again, I wasnt all that impressed with Anisimov or Sanguinetti (before he took a puck to the mouth and left). I think I might expect too much from them. That about wraps it up. Any more questions?

Thanks for the very detailed update! :handclap:

Thanks for the very detailed update! :handclap:

No problem. I was just looking at some Lowell stats. Disalvatore, Bergfors, Wiseman, Halischuk, Salmela, and Eckford are the only ones with impressive offensive stats (Corrente's 4 goals and +6 arent bad either). Something that really stood out though was Zharkov's +/-. He is on a .5 points/game clip which is pretty good for a rookie, and he is leading the team by far with a +13 in 37 games, whereas a guy like Wiseman is almost a point a game and he is a -10(!) in 22 games. Wiseman seems to get most of his production on the power play (team leading 6 goals in only 22 games). Another troubling stat about the power play is that 5 of Bergfors' 8 goals have come on the PP. I remember there were issues with him about that a couple years ago. Hes going to have to become more productive at even strength if he wants to play in the NHL.

No problem. I was just looking at some Lowell stats. Disalvatore, Bergfors, Wiseman, Halischuk, Salmela, and Eckford are the only ones with impressive offensive stats (Corrente's 4 goals and +6 arent bad either). Something that really stood out though was Zharkov's +/-. He is on a .5 points/game clip which is pretty good for a rookie, and he is leading the team by far with a +13 in 37 games, whereas a guy like Wiseman is almost a point a game and he is a -10(!) in 22 games. Wiseman seems to get most of his production on the power play (team leading 6 goals in only 22 games). Another troubling stat about the power play is that 5 of Bergfors' 8 goals have come on the PP. I remember there were issues with him about that a couple years ago. Hes going to have to become more productive at even strength if he wants to play in the NHL.

How did the offense look in general? I saw one game in person and one game online this year and it looked like they were playing Julienball both games.

How did the offense look in general? I saw one game in person and one game online this year and it looked like they were playing Julienball both games.

it wasnt really an offensive game, neither team was generating much. it also didnt help that it was a penalty fest. i think it might have to do with their lack of talent (due to injuries of wiseman, vrana, rheaume) than to the fact that they were playing a conservative game. Only the line of Disalvatore-Swift-Halischuk had multiple scoring threats on it.

Nice to hear Tyler Eckford keeps doing well. I think he will get a very good look in camp this year.

This:

C4kxS1ksqtw

lol without watching it i'm guessing it's that embarrassing goal he gave up.

Lowell won again tonight 6-4.
http://stats.theahl.com/stats/game-summary.php?game_id=1005430

They had a Marty bobble head giveaway tonight, which spiked the attendance to over 5,000 when they usually draw between 1-2k per night.
I'll bet a decent number of fans from NJ made the trip up to Lowell tonight.

Lowell won again tonight 6-4.

How about Pelley with the HAT trick?

Fraser with his second consecutive goal in consecutive games.

Interesting.

How about Pelley with the HAT trick?

And still a -1 on the night. :help: Well, 1 of them was a PPG.

Corrente a +4 on the night, while Eckford is a -2. And big Barry with 3 assists and Nicky with 2.

How about Pelley with the HAT trick?

That'll be one of the "scrubs" playing with Vasyunov?:naughty:

On the bright side, he allowed Sasha to pick up his seventh assist of the year, on the hat-trick goal.:handclap:

Seriously, Pelley appears to be making himself a place in the organisation. He's captain at Lowell with Leach seemingly stuck in an NHL pressbox for the duration. The place he's making himself may be the sort Geordie Kinnear found himself in but it could equally be positioned somewhere between those filled by Brylin and Madden, in due course.

That'll be one of the "scrubs" playing with Vasyunov?:naughty:

On the bright side, he allowed Sasha to pick up his seventh assist of the year, on the hat-trick goal.:handclap:

Seriously, Pelley appears to be making himself a place in the organisation. He's captain at Lowell with Leach seemingly stuck in an NHL pressbox for the duration. The place he's making himself may be the sort Geordie Kinnear found himself in but it could equally be positioned somewhere between those filled by Brylin and Madden, in due course.
Pelley will probably be our fourth-line center next season, not Cormier. I also wouldn't be surprised if he were on our playoff roster.

Pelley is a hard-nosed guy that seems to be finding his offensive game this year in Lowell.

Pelley will probably be our fourth-line center next season, not Cormier. I also wouldn't be surprised if he were on our playoff roster.

i agree i think its the reason he signed a 2 year deal knowing he most likely wouldn't get up this year.

I'd like to see what pelley can bring to the table, last season played a few games and didn't really notice him, but so far he's been a beast in L.

That'll be one of the "scrubs" playing with Vasyunov?:naughty:

On the bright side, he allowed Sasha to pick up his seventh assist of the year, on the hat-trick goal.:handclap:

Seriously, Pelley appears to be making himself a place in the organisation. He's captain at Lowell with Leach seemingly stuck in an NHL pressbox for the duration. The place he's making himself may be the sort Geordie Kinnear found himself in but it could equally be positioned somewhere between those filled by Brylin and Madden, in due course.

I still stand by calling him a "scrub" because hes got no offensive ability to speak of. Hes doing OK in the A but Id rather see Vasyunov with Bergfors and Swift for example. I also think hell be our 4th line center next year.

Looks like Matt Halischuk has lost all his momentum from the WJC gold medal gwg in ot, to great ohl playoff run, to great start in the AHL.....

Since coming back from injury 7gp, 1g, 1a. Was a -2 again tonight. Hopefully he regains some of his confidence back.

Looks like Matt Halischuk has lost all his momentum from the WJC gold medal gwg in ot, to great ohl playoff run, to great start in the AHL.....

Since coming back from injury 7gp, 1g, 1a. Was a -2 again tonight. Hopefully he regains some of his confidence back.

I'm not worried about it. He suffered a nasty injury, it's going to take some time for him to get back up to speed.

I'm not worried about it. He suffered a nasty injury, it's going to take some time for him to get back up to speed.

Neithere am I. I think his hockey sense alone will propel him to the NHL within a couple of years. He will be gfine, he is just going thru a rough patch right now.

He's back playing, and playing good minutes. That's the important thing for him right now. Absolutely no reason to worry as long as the injury isn't lingering.

Looks like Matt Halischuk has lost all his momentum from the WJC gold medal gwg in ot, to great ohl playoff run, to great start in the AHL.....

Since coming back from injury 7gp, 1g, 1a. Was a -2 again tonight. Hopefully he regains some of his confidence back.

Trade Gionta!!! Tank for Tavares!!! Give Madden the C!!!

Trade Gionta!!! Tank for Hedman!!! Give Madden the C!!!

Fixed.

Geez.... Lowell absolutely abused again. This time 5-1. Poor Bergfors a -3

Geez.... Lowell absolutely abused again. This time 5-1. Poor Bergfors a -3

That team is so streaky. They win 3-4 in a row, then drop 3-4 in a row.

I'm convinced more Bergfors will never play in New Jersey.

He can score a ton, but he cant play defense. What does this mean?

Lou will trade him to a team that is "okay" with that (and many are) for a defenseman or a forward that can play 2-ways.

Bergfors isn't that bad defensively, at least from what I've seen from him at the AHL level. He didn't really get much of an opportunity to showcase himself while he was in New Jersey.

I remember Shanny's first few shift against Nashville, he barely touched the puck and he was floating between the right faceoff circle and the blue line. He told Steve after the game that he was a bit nervous and didn't really want too much action on his first few shifts. The guy is going to play his 1500th game in a couple of weeks, and he was nervous. Imagine what Bergfors must have been feeling. Yea, he was up here for 8 games, but I don't think he was given enough opportunities to get comfortable and gain some confidence. I was hoping Sutter would give him a shot on the PK or PP to see if he would respond to those added responsibilities, but he barely got time 5-5. It still doesn't make sense to me.

That team is so streaky. They win 3-4 in a row, then drop 3-4 in a row.
Consistency for the win. :laugh:

Bergfors isn't that bad defensively, at least from what I've seen from him at the AHL level. He didn't really get much of an opportunity to showcase himself while he was in New Jersey.

I remember Shanny's first few shift against Nashville, he barely touched the puck and he was floating between the right faceoff circle and the blue line. He told Steve after the game that he was a bit nervous and didn't really want too much action on his first few shifts. The guy is going to play his 1500th game in a couple of weeks, and he was nervous. Imagine what Bergfors must have been feeling. Yea, he was up here for 8 games, but I don't think he was given enough opportunities to get comfortable and gain some confidence. I was hoping Sutter would give him a shot on the PK or PP to see if he would respond to those added responsibilities, but he barely got time 5-5. It still doesn't make sense to me.

wow DU, nice post, makes me look at Bergfors in a different way. I hope he can get a chance next year, maybe not with us, but with another team if we do trade him.

Uh...did anyone catch that Lowell had over 6,000 people at their home game on Saturday?

Uh...did anyone catch that Lowell had over 6,000 people at their home game on Saturday?

it was all over the website. They used it to cover up the loss. What was the reason behind such the large crowd. Was there a promotion.

Saw this on their website, good to see Halischuk get involved:

Promotions/ In the Community

Tuesday, February 3
Matt Halischuk will be reading to a group of students at Townsend Library in Townsend, MA at 7:00 p.m.

What was the reason behind such the large crowd. Was there a promotion.

They played Providence, so it was a home game. :(

Jason Smith was released from his contract yesterday. Can't say he didn't deserve it, he was terrible.


02/02/2009 Jason Smith (G) Lowell DEL Released from SPC

Jason Smith was released from his contract yesterday. Can't say he didn't deserve it, he was terrible.


02/02/2009 Jason Smith (G) Lowell DEL Released from SPC

So is he going back to Trenton or is he done with the Devils organization completely? I didn't think he was ever going to pan out, but this just means we lose yet another goalie prospect.

I wonder if the Devils will pursue Brad Thiessen from Northeastern this summer. I believe he's a junior, but he's having a really good season and he might want to make the jump to the pros. Plus, if he signs with us he wouldn't have to buy new pads.

http://www.hockeyeastonline.com/images/20072008/nu/men/thiessen2.jpg

Uh...did anyone catch that Lowell had over 6,000 people at their home game on Saturday?

Yup read that! Looked like it was a record attendence according to the papers.

So is he going back to Trenton or is he done with the Devils organization completely? I didn't think he was ever going to pan out, but this just means we lose yet another goalie prospect.

I wonder if the Devils will pursue Brad Thiessen from Northeastern this summer. I believe he's a junior, but he's having a really good season and he might want to make the jump to the pros. Plus, if he signs with us he wouldn't have to buy new pads.

http://www.hockeyeastonline.com/images/20072008/nu/men/thiessen2.jpg

He took the # 1 slot in Trenton when Frazee got called up and he proceeded to stink up the ice like he did last season. Trenton initially went out and traded for Charlie Effinger a first year pro. Charlie came in played decently and quickly became the # 1. Once Charlie hit the wall Trenton went and got Gerald Coleman who's played a couple games with TB. Once Coleman was activated Smith never dressed again even as the backup. After about 6 weeks of trying to move Smith and bouncing him back and forth on IR (because of the ECHL's limited roster size) they finally cut him loose yesterday. He's now free to go play elsewhere, hopefully with the division because he's downright terrible. Coleman is certainly too good to play at the ECHL level his record this year is something like 17-3 with a GAA of 1.80. Coleman will not turn 24 until April.

He took the # 1 slot in Trenton when Frazee got called up and he proceeded to stink up the ice like he did last season. Trenton initially went out and traded for Charlie Effinger a first year pro. Charlie came in played decently and quickly became the # 1. Once Charlie hit the wall Trenton went a got Gerald Coleman who's played a couple games with TB. Once Coleman was activated Smith never dressed again even as the backup. After about 6 weeks of trying to move Smith and bouncing him back and forth on IR (because of the ECHL's limited roster size) they finally cut him loose yesterday. He's now free to go play elsewhere, hopefully with the division because he's downright terrible. Coleman is certainly too good to play at the ECHL level his record this year is something like 17-3 with a GAA of 1.80. Coleman will not turn 24 until April.

Coleman definitely looks like he should be in the A. Anyway too bad for Smith I liked him college and thought he could have been a capable AHL goalie like Frank Doyle. Oh well. Anyone know how Parise is doing in Austria?

Anyone know how Parise is doing in Austria?
He's playing a lot. 46 out of 52 games. He has a save % of .904 and a GAA of 2.80.

http://www.erstebankliga.at/a76971e6196be1885a8a439a7c68938c.html?player=36997

He's playing a lot. 46 out of 52 games. He has a save % of .904 and a GAA of 2.80.

http://www.erstebankliga.at/a76971e6196be1885a8a439a7c68938c.html?player=36997

i tried looking up his stats on hockeydb but they weren't listed. I didn't realize Adrian Foster is also on that team.

i tried looking up his stats on hockeydb but they weren't listed. I didn't realize Adrian Foster is also on that team.

That name mentioned above should appear as ****** ****** whenever it's entered on this board.

it was all over the website. They used it to cover up the loss. What was the reason behind such the large crowd. Was there a promotion.

It was Mr. Potato Head giveaway night. The previous Saturday was a Brodeur Bobblehead giveaway, Pelley scored a hat-trick and they won 6-4. Attendance was up 20% for the potato. It's rumoured Sean Avery is in charge of promotions in Lowell.:naughty:

I think it was also a night when ticket proceeds went to a health charity; "Ladies' Night". That's my guess as to the more likely reason for the big turnout.

It was Mr. Potato Head giveaway night. The previous Saturday was a Brodeur Bobblehead giveaway, Pelley scored a hat-trick and they won 6-4. Attendance was up 20% for the potato. It's rumoured Sean Avery is in charge of promotions in Lowell.:naughty:

I think it was also a night when ticket proceeds went to a health charity; "Ladies' Night". That's my guess as to the more likely reason for the big turnout.

was it really Mr. Potato head night? I love Mr. Potato Head. Was it a devils themed Potato head?

was it really Mr. Potato head night? I love Mr. Potato Head. Was it a devils themed Potato head?

It was indeed.

http://www.lowelldevilshockey.com/theteam/teamnews/weekly02-02-2009.php

I hope we bring Jordan back over. He is the man and he uses the ILLEST pads:
http://cache.daylife.com/imageserve/0gYbaNRdHO7sO/610x.jpg

bergie !! at least 1 goal!

Looks like a 4-2 win for Lowell. Halischuk with 2g and 2a. Bergfors and Zharkov with the other nets. Frazee 24 saves on 26 shots.

Looks like a 4-2 win for Lowell. Halischuk with 2g and 2a. Bergfors and Zharkov with the other nets. Frazee 24 saves on 26 shots.
Oh wow. GREAT to see Halischuk just suddenly rediscover his offense!

Great game by Halischuk and nice to see Bergfors and Zharkov get on the scoresheet too.

great game for our boys

I hope vash gets his scoring antics sorted out again

Hey guys hows Anssi Salmela doing? I see he has 18 pts in 31 games or so, but stats never tell the whole story. I thought the Devils solved their need for a puck moving defender with this guy - have they?

Hey guys hows Anssi Salmela doing? I see he has 18 pts in 31 games or so, but stats never tell the whole story. I thought the Devils solved their need for a puck moving defender with this guy - have they?
Maybe. We'll find out when he next gets a shot at the NHL.

Oh my.

"I looked at the stat lines from the Lowell game and from our prospects and I jizzed...in...my pants."

If they're smart they sign Gerald Coleman to a AHL deal next season.

If they're smart they sign Gerald Coleman to a AHL deal next season.

Very true. I like him alot. I would love to see him in Lowell next year, I think Frazee and Him have the ability to be a good tandem for Lowell.

Which prospects do you guys think might actually crack the devils lineup next year?

Which prospects do you guys think might actually crack the devils lineup next year?

Corrente, Bergfors, and Halischuk all have a legit chance. If you count Salmela as a prospect then so does he. It all depends on what we don in the offseason regarding who stays and who goes. Also Rod Pelley will most likely be up here next season.

If they're smart they sign Gerald Coleman to a AHL deal next season.

i think he's awesome and he certainly deserve better then the ECHL but I don't want to take time away from frazee. Frazee could have a future with the big club, coleman most likely will never sniff the Devils roster.

Corrente, Bergfors, and Halischuk all have a legit chance. If you count Salmela as a prospect then so does he. It all depends on what we don in the offseason regarding who stays and who goes. Also Rod Pelley will most likely be up here next season.

Don't forget Tyler Eckford either.

Don't forget Tyler Eckford either.

damn skippy i always forget about him. He has a great shot at getting a look too. It's been years since i was this happy with the group of youngsters in Lowell. Add in all the juniors and college prospects and I'm happier then a pig in ****. I'm tired ouf our prospect rankings being so low. We have a several players with legit chances at being solid NHL players.

Corrente, Bergfors, and Halischuk all have a legit chance. If you count Salmela as a prospect then so does he. It all depends on what we don in the offseason regarding who stays and who goes. Also Rod Pelley will most likely be up here next season.
I think Eckford has a better chance than Corrente, depending on what happens at the deadline. I also think Patrice Cormier will get a look if one of Madden or Holik are let go.

Watched the 5-3 win over Hartford today. Up 3-0 after the first, they played like crap in the second and Hartford made it 3-2 with 2 quick ones both right off defensive zone faceoffs. They tied it with a Shorthanded 2 on 1, but Lowell answered on the same powerplay. Lowell scored another a few seconds later to ice it. Here were the lines and my opinions of them:

Tallackson-Swift-Bergfors --> pretty good for most the night. Each had some good chances, Bergfors missed a glorious chance on the PP.

Zharkov-Pelley-Halischuk --> hard working line, thrived off the forecheck. Pelley really impressed me, and the announcers were raving about Zharkov (Kleinendorst calls him a "pitbull" or some sort of dog on the forecheck). Halischuk missed a great chance when he was alone in front.

Disalvatore-Rheaume-Vasyunov --> not impressive. Disalvatore was pretty good, Rheaume was "meh." Vasyunov doesnt seem to win any board battles. Likes to shoot and showed some good stickhandling, especially on a 1 on 1 when he went around a defender but didnt get a shot off

Leblond-Mills-Davis --> surprisingly the best line of the night. Accounted for 2 goals (1 by Davis, 1 by Leblond). Leblond had tons of opportunities and shots.

Eckford-Spiller
Fraser-Corrente
Salmela-Magnan

The D all looked decent, Corrente was an assist away from a Gordie Howe hat trick. Featured shooter on the PP. Eckford was OK, a couple minor defensive lapses. Salmela didnt impress me at all. Unfortunately my feed was choppy but on the SHG allowed, one of Eckford or Corrente **** up a pass leading to a 2 on 1, and the other one screwed up the 2 on 1 by letting the pass across.

Frazee

Not his best game, not his worst. Some big saves. First goal was OK, might have been tipped. Second goal was shaky, off speed knuckling turnaround shot. Got hung out to dry on the 3rd goal. Made some really impressive saves when the game was tight though.

Powerplay:

Halischuk-Davis-Zharkov (don't know who was centering)
Disalvatore-Salmela

Tallackson-Rheaume-Bergfors
Corrente-Eckford

PP looked really good, 2 for 4. Each unit produced a goal. Corrente with a one timer from the point, screen by Tallackson I believe. Zharkov tipped Disalvatores point shot, which proved to be the GWG. Halischuk looked really good and poised on the PP. Corrente was the featured shooter on his PP.



Overall I was really impressed by Zharkov, announcers had great things to say about him, Pelley, and Halischuk. Disalvatore too. The Bergfors, Swift, Tallackson line all showed flashes. As did Corrente and Eckford. Unimpressed by Salmela (dont let the -2 fool you though, both goals were right off the face off and in no way his fault), just because he wasnt shooting or doing much on the PP. And also Vasyunov, bacause of his complete inability to win board battles. It will come with time though.

Hope that sums it up. Any questions? Box score can be found here http://stats.theahl.com/stats/game-summary.php?game_id=1005506

Nah Killa, good stuff! Thanks.

Baby Devils are off tonight...weak.

Just read Killa's thoughts on the Hartford game. Good to hear about Zharkov.

big win for the Devs tonight. 7-4 over the River rats.

Salmela had a goal and an assist on a shot that was deflected in by Rod Pelley who also had a 2 point night. Halischuk and Bergfors also chipped in a goal apiece. Zharkov had 2 assists and PL3 with 2 goals. :handclap:

Frazee stopped 30 of 34 shots.

vasynunov invisible again or what?:shakehead

vasynunov invisible again or what?:shakehead

he had an assist too actually on DiSalvatore's goal. I'm not not mistaken he's a little buried on the dpeth chart right now but to me I think he's doing just fine for his first year in North America. He just got off to that amazing start that i think people started to think he was further along in his development then he actually was.

Zharkov is the man. He seems to have adjusted almost seamlessly to the North American game.

Bergfors has already eclipsed his point totals from last year, and its only 11 short of his career high. Keep up the good work, Young Buck.

vasynunov invisible again or what?:shakehead

This is the first time Vasyunov has played more than 40 games in a season. He spent most of his last few seasons waiting for playing time. The intensity of North American pro hockey is probably telling on him, the way it often does on players coming out of college.

If he's back next season this year should have done him a lot of good.

Zharkov, on the other hand, has done nothing but impress with his solidity and consistent improvement. He and Pelley are proving as solid as Rheaume and Murphy, the old stagers who are on the team for that very reason.

Corrente and Swift are also looking at home now, every bit as good as Davis and Fraser who have had years in the league.

For a little while, Vasyunov is on a high-power line with DiSalvatore and Rhéaume. That should help him get the opportunities, but he needs to figure out the flow.

Pelley actually notched a Gordie Howe Hat Trick last night (wrestling with Angelidis, who earned the GHHT as well), on top of the GWG. :handclap: Oh, he's good. And I think he didn't break a stick all night, that should bring his average to just under 1 a game. ;)

I really thought they were goners when they let in the two flukes 9 seconds apart. So smart of Kleinendorst to call the time-out and calm them down, or this could have become a 10-4 rout the other way. Frazee actually made some amazing how-did-he-do-that saves afterward.

For a little while, Vasyunov is on a high-power line with DiSalvatore and Rhéaume. That should help him get the opportunities, but he needs to figure out the flow.

Pelley actually notched a Gordie Howe Hat Trick last night (wrestling with Angelidis, who earned the GHHT as well), on top of the GWG. :handclap: Oh, he's good. And I think he didn't break a stick all night, that should bring his average to just under 1 a game. ;)

I really thought they were goners when they let in the two flukes 9 seconds apart. So smart of Kleinendorst to call the time-out and calm them down, or this could have become a 10-4 rout the other way. Frazee actually made some amazing how-did-he-do-that saves afterward.

That last sentence is probably the most important thing as to why his game has been so much better compared to college. I think the team and the coaches have confidence in him and he doesn't get off his game after bad goals. One bad goal in college and he was done for a week.Go Frazee.

This is the first time Vasyunov has played more than 40 games in a season. He spent most of his last few seasons waiting for playing time. The intensity of North American pro hockey is probably telling on him, the way it often does on players coming out of college.

He was playing like 5 games a year in the RSL. He should've got out of there sooner. to me it was really hindering his development. I love the kid and think he'll eventually settle in to the North American game and become a solid sniper.

It's been a pretty good season thus far for our newly-arrived prospects in Lowell. Can't say I'm disappointed in any of them. Most, like Zharkov, Eckford, and Frazee, have surprised me.

Bergfors 1+1 so far. :)

It's been a pretty good season thus far for our newly-arrived prospects in Lowell. Can't say I'm disappointed in any of them. Most, like Zharkov, Eckford, and Frazee, have surprised me.
Frazee and Zharkov have really shocked me. Eckford has performed at about my expectation level.

Frazee and Zharkov have really shocked me. Eckford has performed at about my expectation level.

I expected Eckford to have a good first season, but he's been excellent. Zharkov has shown that he has legitimate NHL potential, and Frazee has basically made a complete 180 in his development.

Bergfors 1+2 :handclap:

Bergfors 1+2 :handclap:


WOHOOO great for him!!!

Bergfors 1+2 :handclap:

I love Bergfors. still got high hopes for him.

Alot of depth players like Zharkov and Pelley coming into the fold, with potential key guys like Bergfors, Halischuk, and Eckford doing well.

The future looks good, but tell HF's rankings that.

haha the ending seems crazy!! EN goals then 2 goals for debbies to tie it. hahah

haha the ending seems crazy!! EN goals then 2 goals for debbies to tie it. hahah

Who you calling the Debbies:rant:

:laugh:

i'm not a devils fan but i'm pretty impressed with this team, i'm excited to see what they can do in the playoffs

i'm not a devils fan but i'm pretty impressed with this team, i'm excited to see what they can do in the playoffs
Lowell or New Jersey?

Lowell or New Jersey?

yeah i'm a bit confused too.

Halischuk and Salmela with two goals in the last minute. Drool.

I love Tyler Eckford. I think he will get a long look next year, Lou seems to really like him too.

Bergfprs is having a career year down there right now. I think some forget he doesn't turn 22 until next month. The kid still has a future.

Bergfprs is having a career year down there right now. I think some forget he doesn't turn 22 until next month. The kid still has a future.

I still have faith in him, but I said it on draft day and I'll say it now...I wish we took Oshie in that spot.

I still have faith in him, but I said it on draft day and I'll say it now...I wish we took Oshie in that spot.

I wuv Oshie. I wish we took him, but hopefully Bergfors will make me happy.

I still have faith in him, but I said it on draft day and I'll say it now...I wish we took Oshie in that spot.

i'm a big Oshie fan too but I loved our pick of bergfors.

7FSt-8Ry6sI

Talk about Dangling, Dipsy-Doodling, or whatever else you wanna call that...

Edit: LOL Ryan Duncan is so small.

Salmela a goal and 2 assists tonight and the 2nd star

Salmela a goal and 2 assists tonight and the 2nd star

8 G 15 A in 36 games.

06-07 Andy Greene:

5 G 16 A in 52 games.

8 G 15 A in 36 games.

06-07 Andy Greene:

5 G 16 A in 52 games.

And that 06-07 team was absolute garbage and didn't have near the scoring talent that this current Lowell team has.

Oh yeah Andy greene +6
Salmela -6

And that 06-07 team was absolute garbage and didn't have near the scoring talent that this current Lowell team has.

Oh yeah Andy greene +6
Salmela -6

STOP DEFENDING ANDY GREENE!!11!

BOO THIS MAN!!!!!!!

http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y16/djransom/BooThisMan.gif

STOP DEFENDING ANDY GREENE!!11!

BOO THIS MAN!!!!!!!

http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y16/djransom/BooThisMan.gif

Why? Best option for what we have. PERIOD. Salmela is not a better option yet. Leach is not a better option. Eckford is not a better option. Corrente is not a better option. Until we trade for someone better I have every reason to defend him.

And that 06-07 team was absolute garbage and didn't have near the scoring talent that this current Lowell team has.

Oh yeah Andy greene +6
Salmela -6

There's still plenty of season left. Salmela was a +1 just a couple of weeks ago (Corrente was a +10). He has time to bounce back.

Besides, +/- can be very deceiving. Salmela was on the ice for 3 goals today, but because they were all on the PP they didn't count toward his +/-. Mike Green, who scored 9 goals and 34 assists in 56 games during his first AHL season, was a +1 on a Calder Cup winning team. Andy Greene is not better than him in any aspect of the game. Just saying...

There's still plenty of season left. Salmela was a +1 just a couple of weeks ago (Corrente was a +10). He has time to bounce back.

Besides, +/- can be very deceiving. Salmela was on the ice for 3 goals today, but because they were all on the PP they didn't count toward his +/-. Mike Green, who scored 9 goals and 34 assists in 56 games during his first AHL season, was a +1 on a Calder Cup winning team. Andy Greene is not better than him in any aspect of the game. Just saying...

I hate the +/- stat so no need to enlighten me on its ineffectiveness as a stat. I just figured if you were throwing out insignificant stat comparisons I would too.

And I think Greene is better at moving the puck and is slightly better defensively. just saying.

I hate the +/- stat so no need to enlighten me on its ineffectiveness as a stat. I just figured if you were throwing out insignificant stat comparisons I would too.

I don't see what's so insignificant about the stats I presented. Goals are goals, and assists are assists.

I don't see what's so insignificant about the stats I presented. Goals are goals, and assists are assists.

Salmela is playing on a better offensive team then Greene was. i mentioned that in my last post.

Why? Best option for what we have. PERIOD. Salmela is not a better option yet. Leach is not a better option. Eckford is not a better option. Corrente is not a better option. Until we trade for someone better I have every reason to defend him.

I'm just kidding. Going along with the "Andy Greene sucks nuts" trend.

I do want to see Ants-in-the-pants get another shot, though.

Corrente vs. Eckford vs. Salmela for a spot on the team is going to be an epic battle next year. Hell, I wouldn't even count out Fraser. He's been solid down there and is wearing an A.

There's only one way to settle this...
http://dvdmedia.ign.com/dvd/image/article/919/919789/wwe-hell-in-a-cell-20081014020956809-000.jpg

Corrente vs. Eckford vs. Salmela for a spot on the team is going to be an epic battle next year. Hell, I wouldn't even count out Fraser. He's been solid down there and is wearing an A.

There's only one way to settle this...
http://dvdmedia.ign.com/dvd/image/article/919/919789/wwe-hell-in-a-cell-20081014020956809-000.jpg

True it will be. I think the spot is going to be between Eckford and Salmela. Corrente will probably get another year in the AHL.

Salmela is playing on a better offensive team then Greene was. i mentioned that in my last post.

That's a weak argument. Greene was paired with Dan ****ing McGillis who scored 10 goals and 31 assists that year, and all he barely matched half of that.

That's a weak argument. Greene was paired with Dan ****ing McGillis who scored 10 goals and 31 assists that year, and all he barely matched half of that.

whatever, arguing this isn't worth my time everyone here has already seen where it goes. Its a waste of time.

That's a weak argument. Greene was paired with Dan ****ing McGillis who scored 10 goals and 31 assists that year, and all he barely matched half of that.

McGillis was really earning that money.

For the people that wanted Oshie, he was not expected to be a 1st rounder, so much so that he wasnt even in the building when the blues picked him . Right now i would pick Oshie over Bergfors but hindsight is 20/20

I wuv Oshie. I wish we took him, but hopefully Bergfors will make me happy.

No homo? :laugh:

Good for Lowell. It's about time the fans got to see consistant young and exciting players.

Next season should be even better with other junior and college prospects looking to turn pro.

McGillis was really earning that money.

True, but he's still Dan ****ing McGillis. You can't say Greene had a disadvantage when McGillis put up 41 points.

Greene is soft, mentally and physically. Two characteristics he needs to shake before it's too late.

Oduya and Salmela proved in Europe that they can play the game tough and that they wont back down. They have that little something that you want to see in a smaller defenceman, bulldog mentality. Greene doesn't have that and I don't think he ever will.

Salmela is exciting, he has very good offensive upside and hopefully he can become as good as Oduya in his own end too. I just think he might become stuck in the shuffle though, Eckford has crazy upside too and Corrente is a pitbull with Bieksa-upside.

We will see...

http://www.theahl.com/headlines/index.html?article_id=9512

Nobody posted this. Lowell is the youngest team in the AHL. We have a fairly strong prospect base outside the pro ranks at the moment, how are we 30th on HF prospect rankings?

http://www.theahl.com/headlines/index.html?article_id=9512

Nobody posted this. Lowell is the youngest team in the AHL. We have a fairly strong prospect base outside the pro ranks at the moment, how are we 30th on HF prospect rankings?

No superstar prospects? Or more likely, honesty....

No superstar prospects? Or more likely, honesty....
You need a flashy name like Turris or Stamkos to be high in the rankings. Thats the only thing I can figure out considering half the writers see about as much junior hockey as I do.

You need a flashy name like Turris or Stamkos to be high in the rankings. Thats the only thing I can figure out considering half the writers see about as much junior hockey as I do.

A Crown Jewel always makes a difference. I don't think anyone of us will care about ranking if most, if not all the blue chippers turn into solid pros or net the team good parts in the future. Our Crown Jewel is already wearing #9;)

I do have to hand it to you JMac, you're the only voice I can remember consistently defending Zajac's talent level, especially when it came to his hockey sense. Now it's coming to fruition:handclap:

I never thought about teh average age of the Little Devils. They are pretty young, I hope that they put some more winning streaks together so they can make the AHL playoffs.

The AHL site list Eckford as 6'1'' 200lbs....Since his College list, he has shrunk 2 inches and lost 35lbs. LOL

The AHL site list Eckford as 6'1'' 200lbs....Since his College list, he has shrunk 2 inches and lost 35lbs. LOL

I know hahaha. That's peculiar.

I just watched the highlights from the Lowell Providence game the other day.

Salmela's shot is incredible. He scored the game tying goal off a one timer from DiSalvatore. That thing was a rocket.

Bergfors scored on a quick shot from the high slot on the PP. Just shows that he can play.

Another reason why +/- is retarded. Lowell was down by 1 with a minute remaining. Salmela was trying to dump the puck in, the friggen linesman got in the way, and Portland scored on an empty net from the blue line. The great Mike Mottau couldn't have stopped that one from going in.

http://ahl.neulion.com/team/console.jsp?catid=2&id=1794

I just watched the highlights from the Lowell Providence game the other day.

Salmela's shot is incredible. He scored the game tying goal off a one timer from DiSalvatore. That thing was a rocket.

Bergfors scored on a quick shot from the high slot on the PP. Just shows that he can play.

Another reason why +/- is retarded. Lowell was down by 1 with a minute remaining. Salmela was trying to dump the puck in, the friggen linesman got in the way, and Portland scored on an empty net from the blue line. The great Mike Mottau couldn't have stopped that one from going in.

http://ahl.neulion.com/team/console.jsp?catid=2&id=1794

Salmela is awesome, I can't wait to see him on the devils.

Just watched the Lowell-Portland and Lowell-Hartford highlights.

Salmela is an offensive weapon and I'd like to see him get another chance this season just because of his shot. He absolutely hammered two shots in the Portland game.

I love Zharkov. You can tell he plays with a ton of emotion just from his celebration after his goal against Hartford.

Bergfors, like we've all heard and in some cases seen, is the real deal. He can completely slow the game down on the PP and has a great shot.

Frazee gets pissed alot, but I'm sure that has to do with the fact that his troops left him out to dry about six times at least in those two games combined.

It's not even Salmela's shot that impresses me, it's his release. I can't think of another player on the team besides Rolston who has a quicker release.

It's not even Salmela's shot that impresses me, it's his release. I can't think of another player on the team besides Rolston who has a quicker release.

I'm sure Salmela and Bergfors will get a good shot at making the team next training camp but for me, if he makes it through the trade deadline, Matt Corrente is the guy most likely to make the big team to start next season.

Which forward positions will be available is difficult to predict. The returning personnel depends so much on this post-season, but Rod Pelley must have the inside track.

Zharkov and Halischuk would need outstanding pre-seasons to avoid a second year in Lowell, but they look capable of at least spot duty.

I'm sure Salmela and Bergfors will get a good shot at making the team next training camp but for me, if he makes it through the trade deadline, Matt Corrente is the guy most likely to make the big team to start next season.

Which forward positions will be available is difficult to predict. The returning personnel depends so much on this post-season, but Rod Pelley must have the inside track.

Zharkov and Halischuk would need outstanding pre-seasons to avoid a second year in Lowell, but they look capable of at least spot duty.

I think they expected Corrente to make the team out of camp this year, but the nerves got to him and he blew it. He had two very good camps before this season, and if he was a year older, he would have beat out Mottau for the 6th spot last season.

Greene is soft, mentally and physically. Two characteristics he needs to shake before it's too late. Oduya and Salmela proved in Europe that they can play the game tough and that they wont back down. They have that little something that you want to see in a smaller defenceman, bulldog mentality. Greene doesn't have that and I don't think he ever will.


Salmela's shot is incredible. He scored the game tying goal off a one timer from DiSalvatore. That thing was a rocket.

Salmela is awesome, I can't wait to see him on the devils.


Salmela is an offensive weapon and I'd like to see him get another chance this season just because of his shot. He absolutely hammered two shots in the Portland game.

Annsi Salmela is nothing. He not threat to magnificent Andy Greene next year or ever. Glorious and proud defenseman Greene will defend 6th spot on team against any and all Finnish pretenders or weak defensive threats from other nations as well.

http://dunamai.com/Humor/BagdadBob/images/bagdad_bob_large.gif

Greene is soft, mentally and physically. Two characteristics he needs to shake before it's too late.

Oduya and Salmela proved in Europe that they can play the game tough and that they wont back down. They have that little something that you want to see in a smaller defenceman, bulldog mentality. Greene doesn't have that and I don't think he ever will.


I think this reason will have him up with the big team by the deadline. I just saw highlights of that game where they came back, and man is Salmela's shot quick in every aspect. His release is quick, the shot itself is quick and the way he gets in position to one time it is quick. I love it.

Also Bergfors and Pelley are impressing me as well from the video I have seen of them. Seems like both of them have found their offensive game this year. Very impressive and I am proud of both of them.

Annsi Salmela is nothing. He not threat to magnificent Andy Greene next year or ever. Glorious and proud defenseman Greene will defend 6th spot on team against any and all Finnish pretenders or weak defensive threats from other nations as well.


Its getting old. that is all.

Bergfors and Salmela haven't been dealt yet, despite being playing their best and showing a lot of upside this season, unlike Voros, Foster or others who have been dealt away, Lou sees something on those guys.

Salmela is a no-brainer for next season, Bergfors should make a good push.

Guys who should have a good shot to make the team next season if they aren't dealt by the trade deadline are Bergfors for Gionta and Pelley for Holik. On defense, Salmela, Corrente and Fraser will hopefully all be fighting for spots. If this current bunch can win a cup, I can see Lou going younger and cheaper in September.

Guys who should have a good shot to make the team next season if they aren't dealt by the trade deadline are Bergfors for Gionta and Pelley for Holik. On defense, Salmela, Corrente and Fraser will hopefully all be fighting for spots. If this current bunch can win a cup, I can see Lou going younger and cheaper in September.

Great point. If this team wins a cup as currently constructed, I could easily see Lou going younger in the offseason. That is unless he feels the team has a chance to go for glory again, a very rare occurance.

As for Salmela, I like the kid. He's tenacious and plays like a bulldog. Only problem is that I feel if Matt Corrente has a decent-to-good camp, he will likely make the team over Anssi. Matt is a lot more physical, is probably better defensively and brings a decent amount of offense.

Bergfors I can see making the team, and if he continues to be a + player in Lowell, he could probably play on any line. If Gionta does bolt, looks like we have two good options (Bergfors and Halischuk) for the RW on any line. You could possibly even throw Palmieri's name in the mix, with his strong showings in the past two camps.

Bergfors scored on a quick shot. :hockey:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jQkZ82oGrgI

It's not even Salmela's shot that impresses me, it's his release. I can't think of another player on the team besides Rolston who has a quicker release.

brendan shanahan?

Lowell wins 3-2 in a SO.

Lowell wins 3-2 in a SO.

Bergy and Zharkov with goals, Halischuk and Eckford with assists, Frazee with 40 saves. Nice game boys.

Bergy and Zharkov with goals, Halischuk and Eckford with assists, Frazee with 40 saves. Nice game boys.

good night for our younger prospects in Lowell.

Also Mark Fraser bobble head night is coming up soon guys, get your tickets fast! :sarcasm:

http://lowelldevilshockey.com/

I think Zharkhov makes the big club next year. He's not nearly as gifted as Vasyunov in terms of offensive skill, but he's always hustling and he's looked good defensively every time I've seen him.. I could see him on the 3rd/4th line with some time on the second PK unit.

I think Zharkhov makes the big club next year. He's not nearly as gifted as Vasyunov in terms of offensive skill, but he's always hustling and he's looked good defensively every time I've seen him.. I could see him on the 3rd/4th line with some time on the second PK unit.

I think it all depends on whether or not Pandolfo is on the team next year.

I think Zharkhov makes the big club next year. He's not nearly as gifted as Vasyunov in terms of offensive skill, but he's always hustling and he's looked good defensively every time I've seen him.. I could see him on the 3rd/4th line with some time on the second PK unit.
He'll be competing with Halischuk for a spot, as I think Halischuk has a pretty good chance of making it himself. Bergfors will be competing for a top-6 spot, especially if Gionta is gone, Cormier and Henrique could both surprise in training camp and challenge for a spot. Rod Pelley is basically certain to be on the team if one of Holik and Madden leave. We've got lots of nice options.

He'll be competing with Halischuk for a spot, as I think Halischuk has a pretty good chance of making it himself. Bergfors will be competing for a top-6 spot, especially if Gionta is gone, Cormier and Henrique could both surprise in training camp and challenge for a spot. Rod Pelley is basically certain to be on the team if one of Holik and Madden leave. We've got lots of nice options.
I think if we win the cup this year, Lou will definitely go younger like this.

He'll be competing with Halischuk for a spot, as I think Halischuk has a pretty good chance of making it himself. Bergfors will be competing for a top-6 spot, especially if Gionta is gone, Cormier and Henrique could both surprise in training camp and challenge for a spot. Rod Pelley is basically certain to be on the team if one of Holik and Madden leave. We've got lots of nice options.

Yeah, this is the first training camp in a while where there are a number of young forwards with legitimate shots at the big squad.

BTW, did you guys notice after Portland scored that EN goal, Salmela smashed his stick in half on the crossbar? He's an aggressive little ****er. I like that.

BTW, did you guys notice after Portland scored that EN goal, Salmela smashed his stick in half on the crossbar? He's an aggressive little ****er. I like that.

Yeah I saw that. Charlie Conway, two minutes unsportsmanlike.

BTW, did you guys notice after Portland scored that EN goal, Salmela smashed his stick in half on the crossbar? He's an aggressive little ****er. I like that.

It is that pitbull attitude.

Zharkov is a +17. I need new pants.

Just imagine a kid line of Zharkov-Pelley/Cormier-Halischuk next year? That would be sweet, but also very unrealistic. Pelley added another assist tonight BTW.

http://www.lowelldevilshockey.com/theteam/recaps/images/gr021809.jpg

Bergfors scores again. :handclap:

bergfors is ****ing ill

jesus

eckford and pelley with the A and the +1 :)

good to see zharkov piling up goals, and frazee with 40 saves on 42 shots, insane.

These Lowell Devils could be real good next season. Love it.

Oh, and Bergfors will be an NHL player next season.

Agreed, britdevil. I see just no way this kid is going to stay longer in the AHL. If he won´t get traded, he should get Gios spot next season, and if he gets traded, well I believe that might come back and haunt us one day.

Don't know if you've heard this yet

http://www.dailygazette.com/news/2009/feb/19/0219_Rats/

Our prayers for a speedy recovery go out to all the players. Good that there are no life threatening or career threatening injuries.

http://www.lowelldevilshockey.com/theteam/recaps/images/gr021809.jpg

ZGoWtY_h4xo

He's singing that song to himself on the ice.

"You know it's true...everything I do...I do it for Lou."

Don't know if you've heard this yet

http://www.dailygazette.com/news/2009/feb/19/0219_Rats/

Our prayers for a speedy recovery go out to all the players. Good that there are no life threatening or career threatening injuries.

Just saw this on Fox News, crazyness.

I've been going to a number of Lowell Devils games this season, attendance is starting to pick up a bit. People in the city are starting to realize this team is talented. Too bad the Devils don't promote the team enough, not smart to turn your back on the cities only media outlet. This years team has a different feel, it seems like the Devils have finally stocked up on young prospects. There is a lot of talent down there. Frazee, has been phenominal in net. Nick Bergfors should be in the NHL next year. Right now the biggest concern is defense Frazee could use a little help on the defensive end, now that Salmela is up in New Jersey.

Lou should sign two or three ahl defensive vets who can get the job done, Frazee would just dominate
if he faced something like 20-25 shots a night, which may be what other goalies on top of the league in stats face.

Lou has a couple AHL vets. Greene and Leach.

both should go through waivers if I'm not mistaken

Lou should sign two or three ahl defensive vets who can get the job done, Frazee would just dominate
if he faced something like 20-25 shots a night, which may be what other goalies on top of the league in stats face.

i'd rather the top playing time go to corrente and Eckford. Leach was never supposed to make it to the NHL and was the captain at Lowell so he was going to be the vetern presence.

Just saw this on Fox News, crazyness.

Luckily nobopdy was seriously injured....BTW, it was three players and the Radio PBP guy.......John Hennessy, I am guessing the same John Hennessy that used to do the Devils Radio PBP. He was better that Loughlin

Bergfors had another goal tonight.:handclap:

Team lost 7-2 though. I believe Caruso was in net also so i don't think this one is one Frazee. Caruso is terrible. why is he on this team.

Bergfors now has 12 goals and 22 assists for 34 points in 40 games. Maybe if he goes on a tear he can be a PPG player soon!

Bergfors now has 12 goals and 22 assists for 34 points in 40 games. Maybe if he goes on a tear he can be a PPG player soon!

Playmaking center for Patty?!

Playmaking center for Patty?!

Bergfors is a winger, no way he will play center in the NHL

And i personally thing Elias needs a sniper either at Center or RW because he usually is a pass first then shoot even though he is in the top 10 in shots.

Bergfors is a winger, no way he will play center in the NHL


I think he was being sarcastic, but maybe he can be the goal scorer that Elias needs for next year if Gio is gone.

Bergfors is a winger


Really, since when?!

Bergfors now has 12 goals and 22 assists for 34 points in 40 games. Maybe if he goes on a tear he can be a PPG player soon!

No

Bergfors now has 13 goals and 35 points after tonights game against Manchester. Bergie scores again.

Really, since when?!

Pretty much since he turned pro in 2005.

Lowell down to 5 defensemen last night; Salmela called up and Spiller missing, injured I assume. Hope Salmela can come back down again soon. It would be sad for them to miss the playoffs again because the top D pair (Leach and Salmela) are covering for injuries in the NHL.

Pretty much since he turned pro in 2005.

I was being sarcastic...

No

Bergfors now has 13 goals and 35 points after tonights game against Manchester. Bergie scores again.

Ahh I see. I guess hockeydb's stats werent updated...

pelley with 2 more goals at the end of the first for a 2-2 tie

can you say on a tear

Matty Hally with a goal and an assist <3

2009/2010 lineup

Elias - Zubrus - Halischuk
Parise - Zajac - Langenbrunner
Rolston - Madden - Pelley
Rupp - Cormier - Clarkson

Holik and Shanny retire after we win the cup. Gionta doesn't resign too much money. We trade bergfors for another pick in the draft.

2009/2010 lineup

Elias - Zubrus - Halischuk
Parise - Zajac - Langenbrunner
Rolston - Madden - Pelley
Rupp - Cormier - Clarkson

Holik and Shanny retire after we win the cup. Gionta doesn't resign too much money. We trade bergfors for another pick in the draft.

So you think Hallischuk will be in next years line-up because he scores tonight? :amazed:

So you think Hallischuk will be in next years line-up because he scores tonight? :amazed:
I think Halischuk makes next year's lineup too, just because he's NHL material.

swifty with the ot winner

I think Halischuk makes next year's lineup too, just because he's NHL material.

Out of all the forwards I think Bergfors has a slight advantage over Halischuk especially with Bergfors' strong play of late. But then again, Sutter does like those Canadian kids. I guess we will see. I hope they can both make it if Gio doesnt resign.

2009/2010 lineup

Elias - Zubrus - Halischuk
Parise - Zajac - Langenbrunner
Rolston - Madden - Pelley
Rupp - Cormier - Clarkson

Holik and Shanny retire after we win the cup. Gionta doesn't resign too much money. We trade bergfors for another pick in the draft.
and what is to become of Petr Vrana? Back to the Czech Republic?

and what is to become of Petr Vrana? Back to the Czech Republic?
We need to trade him now while he has a smidgen of value.

and what is to become of Petr Vrana? Back to the Czech Republic?

Well he was going to bolt back home but he broke his leg.

Well depending on who we have left on March 5, I'd say a top 6 role goes to Bergfors while Halischuk is going to be a third line winger.

We need to trade him now while he has a smidgen of value.
Does he even have value? He needed to clear waivers to be sent back down, and he was unclaimed. Meanwhile, Tampa claimed a guy like Gratton. I don't think anybody would trade for him. ESPECIALLY if they realize he's going to dash to the Czech Republic at a moment's notice.

Well he was going to bolt back home but he broke his leg.
Sigh. He had such potential too. It would've been nice seeing him and Elias becoming the best of friends.

I think Halischuk makes next year's lineup too, just because he's NHL material.

Halischuk's big question now is his knee. Last night he tweaked it. He didn't leave the game, he stayed on the bench and even hopped over the boards to put weight on it, but he stayed out the rest of the game.

After his return from knee injury, he has appeared tentative. Not as willing to take the puck and move with it himself, but I don't know if that's the product of the NJ system. If it is the "system" that is doing this, I hope he goes somewhere where he can go back to playing that give-me-the-puck kind of hockey. Even as I type this, however, I think it's more just a product of a kid with a knee injury who doesn't want to appear weak post injury.

I think he was being sarcastic, but maybe he can be the goal scorer that Elias needs for next year if Gio is gone.

Yea I don't know about Bergfors being any sort of dominant goal scorer. A majority of his shots are right into the bullseye/chest of goalies. In Lowell it doesnt matter, but doing that in the NHL and squandering a scoring opportunity will get him benched (See "Sutter Down on Bergfors").

Yea I don't know about Bergfors being any sort of dominant goal scorer. A majority of his shots are right into the bullseye/chest of goalies. In Lowell it doesnt matter, but doing that in the NHL and squandering a scoring opportunity will get him benched (See "Sutter Down on Bergfors").

Sounds like a perfect replacement for Gionta.

Sounds like a perfect replacement for most of our forwards.

fix'd

Sounds like a perfect replacement for Gionta.

Beat me to it

This is my 3rd yr on the Matt Halischuk bandwagon. Next stop. Newark.

I'm really on the Zharkov bandwagon now. I've been a serious passenger Halischuk bandwagon for a while now like everyone else no homo.

I have to see Delahey play one of these days. Something tells me he is going to be a steal. Just the way the coach and fans speak of him. For a guy who is 6`3 210 blueliner who is mobile and able to put up some points.

I have to see Delahey play one of these days. Something tells me he is going to be a steal. Just the way the coach and fans speak of him. For a guy who is 6`3 210 blueliner who is mobile and able to put up some points.
Like what? I haven't heard anything about him.