Friday, September 30, 2011

UHP Free Agency – Round 4 Results

With the regular season fast approaching, a few more signings to note.
It’s expected that with these recent signings, most teams should be extremely close to their opening day rosters.

Todd Bertuzzi – The Ottawa Senators have inked ‘Big Bert’ to a 1 year contract. (1 year - $800K/yr);

Eric Brewer – Having re-found his form last year, Eric Brewer will attempt to keep his career back on track when he joins the Pittsburgh Penguins for the next 3 years. (3 years, $900K/yr);

Andrew Brunette
– The aging forward has potentially secured his last deal with the Nashville Predators on a 2 year deal (2 years, $1.1M/yr);

Alexandre Daigle – Daigle has signed a 1 day contract with the Winnipeg Jets in order to retire with the team.  Oddly enough, Daigle never played for the Jets… you have to wonder what is going through this troubled man’s mind. (1 day -$1/day);

Zac Dalpe – The Ottawa Senators are hoping that youth is part of the solution, as they have signed Zac Dalpe to a 3 year deal (3 years, - $800K/yr);

Jake Gardiner – The Anaheim Ducks have signed young up and comer Jake Gardiner to a 1 year contract.  “Given our depth on the back-end, we didn’t want to commit to a long-term deal until Jake can prove he’s got what it takes to make it in the league”, stated Woody, Ducks GM.  (1 year, $500K/yr);

Curtis Glencross – The Anaheim Ducks went right back to the UFA pond to reel in Glencross on a 1 year deal.  (1 year, $500K/yr);

Jaroslav Halak – Reports indicate that Halak received a 2 year offer from the New Jersey Devils.  However, the Jets were quick to point out that Halak was still under contract with their organization with the following comment “WTF?” (Contract Offer Voided);

Braden Holtby – Looking toward the future, the Anaheim Ducks inked goaltender Braden Holtby to a 1 year contract. (1 year - $500K/yr);

Tyler Kennedy – The grinding yet skilled forward, Kennedy, has agreed to terms with the Pittsburgh Penguins on a 3 year deal. (3 years, $800K/yr);

Nikolai Kulemin – During the Anaheim Ducks’ busiest round of the Free Agency process, they have inked Nikolai Kulemin to a 1 year deal. “Our thought process during this time of the off-season with our roster the way it is, was to sign players with lots of potential as we look toward the future.  We feel that Kulemin with his size, can be a complete player for our organization.  He just needs to build confidence and drive the net on a consistent basis.” (1 year, $500K/yr);

Clarke MacArthur – After having one of his former teams walk away from him following an arbitration hearing a couple of years back, the New Jersey Devils are hoping that last year’s production was not a flash in the pan, as they have signed the forward to a 2 year deal.  (2 years, $600K);

Marc Methot – Looking to add a physical element and size to their back end, the Ottawa Senators have signed Ottawa Native, Marc Method to a 1 year deal.
(1 year, $1.2M/yr)

Steve Montador – Veteran defenseman has agreed to terms with the Montreal Canadiens. (3 years, $2M);

Ondrej Pavelec – Recent up and coming goaltender Ondrej Pavelec received lots of attention recently as well.  When reporters asked him about it, Pavelec had this to say. “I really had 2 teams knocking at my door… But I told my agent to play games with those offering me a contract in order to try and get me more money… turns out the Jets bit twice, as they competed against themselves a  couple of times”.  Not sure how his teammates and organization will react to these recent comments. (3 years, $900K/yr);

Rich Peverley – Many outsiders were surprised that Rich Peverley didn’t receive any more attention during the off-season than he did, given his offensive output last year.  That said, the Pittsburgh Penguins did great with this signing.  (1 years, $500K/yr);

Vaclav Prospal – Known for watering down the Orange Juice to make it last longer, and to drive his car in neutral down a hill to reduce gas consumption, Vinny Prospal will be taking his talents to Nashville for the next year. (1 year, $900K/yr);

Mark Scheifele – After being drafted by the New Jersey Devils in this year’s draft, the Devils either decided against or neglected to sign the 7th overall pick in the NHL entry draft.  Enter the Ottawa Senators, as they steal the 18 year old who is tearing up the exhibition schedule to a 3 year deal. (3 years, $900K/yr);

Jarret Stoll – The versatile 3rd line center has come to terms with the Oakland Seals. (2 years, $800K/yr);

All submissions can be viewed at this link: https://docs.google.com/spreadsheet/ccc?key=0ApAg2gUBWM7DdFdnSDd2WkhMNEZEVnhEUTFvcURKaVE&hl=en_US

Reminder – Final round of UFA process ends Wednesday, October 5th (Noon).

Thursday, September 15, 2011

UHP Free Agency – Round 3 Results

With training camps beginning over the weekend, we are seeing many more contracts being handed out, and the free agent frenzy die down as all teams are attempting to put their finishing touches on their rosters. As per usual, UHP staff have been working around the clock gathering the most up to date information on these signings. The following details are those we have been able to confirm thus far.

Pekka Rinne – Rinne having made quite a statement in the past couple of years has proven that he is capable of being a true #1 goalie in the league.  That said, the New York Rangers certainly have paid close attention to this fact, as they have signed the consistent goalie to a 3 year contract (3 years - $5.5M/yr);

Dwayne Roloson – The never aging goaltender, Dwayne Roloson, has proved once again last year that he still has what it takes to win important games down the stretch and into the playoffs.  The Pittsburgh Penguins are hoping that Roloson has one more magical season in him, as they signed the veteran to a 1 year contract (1 year - $900K/yr);

David Rundblad – One of the most coveted European prospects, David Rundblad, who won the Salming award last year has fielded quite a few offers from UHP teams.  At the end of the day, Rundblad will be heading the Canada’s Capital to play for the Ottawa Senators on a 3 year deal (3 years – 1.8M/yr);

Tuomo Ruutu – Brother if NHL pest, Jarkko, Tuomo has fought injuries for a large part of his career.  Regardless of this fact, Los Angeles Kings representatives have informed us that Ruutu has been working out hard during the offseason, getting his body ready for a full professional season. (2 years, $2.5M/yr);

Luke Schenn – Coming off his entry level contract, Luke Schenn has signed a 3 year deal with the Anaheim Ducks.  The Ducks may have a steal here, as Schenn is developing into an excellent shut down “D” who led the league in Hits last year for all defenseman (3 years, $1M/yr);

Teemu Selanne – Reports indicate that at least 2 teams pitched their bid to future Hall of Famer, Teemu Selanne.  Although it is still uncertain whether or not Selanne will suit up for yet another season, the Los Angeles Kings are banking on the fact that he will indeed, as they signed Selanne to a 1 year contract in hopes in enticing him back to the ice. (1 year, $1.5M/yr);

Patrick Sharp – After splitting his professional career between the Philadelphia Flyers and the Chicago Blackhawks, Patrick Sharp will once again be packing his bags and heading to the City of Angels, as he has signed a 3 year deal with the Los Angeles Kings, joining the likes of Brian Campbell as a former Blackhawk (3 years – 7.1M/yr);

Jakob Silfverberg – The Anaheim Ducks have signed European prospect Jakob Silfverberg.  Although ongoing club efforts to get the young player to stay in North America, Silfverberg has indicated that he will return to Sweden for 1 more season, before making his way to the UHP (1 year - $500K);

Sheldon Souray – After having spent the last couple of seasons in the Edmonton Oilers doghouse, Sheldon Souray leave the AHL club, the Hersey Bears, and will suit up for the Ottawa Senators.  Both Souray and the Senators hope the once Power Play Specialist can return to the top of his game in order to help his new club win a UHP Championship (1 year - $2M/yr);

Jason Spezza – Nearing the end of last season, Spezza seemed to find his comfort zone with the younger players on his hockey club.  Seeing many of the veterans leave, Spezza took the opportunity to excel both as a leader and as a consistent point producer.  With that in mind, many teams have noticed the transformation in Spezza’s game and attempted to land one of the true #1 Centers in the league.  When all was said and done, Spezza will be heading for Oakland for the next 3 years.  (3 years – 5.9M/yr);

Martin St-Louis – Helping the Lightning within 1 goal of the final round of the playoffs last year, Martin St-Louis has signed which is most likely his last long-term contract, as he has agreed to a 3 year deal with the Los Angeles Kings. (3 years - $9M/yr);

Paul Stastny – After having experienced a slight dip in performance, Paul Stastny will attempt to get back to his near point a game pace when he joins the Montreal Canadiens for the next few seasons.  (3 years - $5M/yr);

Steve
“Sully” Sullivan – Agreeing to a 1 year contract, the Pittsburgh Penguins have come to terms with the veteran, Steve Sullivan.  Sullivan will act as both a support player on the ice, as well as a mentor to many of the new faces around the Pittsburgh Organization. (1 year - $800K);

Vladimir Tarasenko – The New Jersey Devils have aimed their sights on former 1st rounder Vladamir Tarasenko, who’s rights were trade during the 2010 draft, seeing David Rundblad’s rights go the other way.  Tarasenko’s skill level is off the charts, however, the only question mark here is whether he will find his way over to North America in the coming years or not. (3 years, $1.1M/yr);

Tomas Tatar – Spending the 2009-10 and 2010-11 seasons with Grand Rapids, Tatar will attempt to make a deep Pittsburgh Penguins’ squad.  If he is not able to crack the lineup, he will most likely return to junior for at least 1 more season. (3 years - $700K/yr);

Tim Thomas – Just a few months removed from capturing the Vezina trophy, the heart and soul goaltender you can’t stand but to cheer for will attempt to duplicate last season’s success with the Oakland Seals.  (3 years - $3.3M/yr);

Antoine Vermette – The former Senator and Penalty Killing specialist has signed a 1 year deal with the Anaheim Ducks. (1 year - $1.2M/yr);

Tomas Vokoun – After early rumours indicating that Vokoun was getting squeezed out of the goalie market, Vokoun’s agent has since worked his magic, securing a decent contract worth a total of $7.2M over the next 3 years with the New Jersey Devils (3 years - $7.2M/yr);

Ryan Whitney – After having been bought out by the Oakland Seals in the prior season, Whitney has decided to try his fate once again with the same team.  When asked about his decision, Whitney had the following to say. “Easy – 2 consecutive cups.  It’s clear management knows what they are doing, and I want to be a part of it” (3 years - $1 800 100/yr);

Ray Whitney – Whitney’s experience will be invaluable as he joins the New Jersey Devils on a 1 year contract (1 year - $600K/yr);

Justin Williams – The Oakland Seals have come to terms with Justin Williams.  Williams, yet another player that once played for the Seals, has resigned with the former 2 UHP Championship Club.  “I was a little disappointed that the Ducks made no efforts in resigning me, since my point totals have jumped significantly last season. That said, I am extremely excited to resume my career with the Seals” (3 years - $2.1M/yr);

Henrik Zetterberg – Possibly one of the best 2-way forwards in the game today, Zetterberg had lots to chose from this off-season. Offers ranged from $7M to $10M per season.  Once the deadline passed, Zetterberg signed a 3 year deal worth a total of $30M with the Anaheim Ducks. “This was an extremely important signing for our club. We feel that we have a good core here in Anaheim, and Zetterberg will only solidify our forward position”. (3 years - $10M/yr);

With the Free Agency Period coming to a close, many of the teams have just a few tweaks to make to their roster before they hit the ice for Main Camp, followed by Preseason.  Stay tuned for more information, as this season is gearing up to be one of the best and most competitive.

Cheers,

–––––––
UHP Commissioner
hockey.fantasysports.yahoo.com/league/uhockeypool

Friday, September 9, 2011

UHP Free Agency – Round 2 Results


After having been quiet on the reporting front for over a week, tons of headlines regarding UHP signings are flying through the door at UHP HQ.  While some details are being wrapped up as we speak, here are the biggest names that have most recently been plucked off the market.

Blake Geoffrion – Grandson of NHL Hockey Hall of Famer, ‘Boom Boom’ Geoffrion, Blake continues to see his hockey career climb.  Reports indicate that he has decided to join the Ottawa Senators’ organization for the next 2 years, hoping to add to an already youthful team.  (2 years - $700K/yr);

Travis Hamonic – Having spent many of his junior years with the Moose Jaw Warriors, the former 2nd round pick has signed on with the Nashville Predators.
(2 years - $800K/yr);

Roman Hamrlik – Journeyman Defenceman, Roman Hamrlik has found a home for the next year, which may well be his last professional hockey contract, as he signs on with the Los Angels Kings.  (1 year - $1M/yr);

Tomas Holmstrom – Spending as much time ‘between the pipes’ as any of his opposing goaltenders, Holmstrom hopes to continue his respectful career in
Los Angeles, signing a 2 year deal.  (2 years, $3M/yr);

Jaromir Jagr – After having spent multiple seasons in the KHL, Jagr has surprisingly decided to take his hockey career back to North America.  What is more surprising is that Jagr was offered a multiple year deal with one of the UHP teams. Early reports indicate that the Nashville Predators have offered a 3 year, $20.1M contract to the former NHL All-Star.  (3 years – $6.7M/yr);

Dustin Jeffrey – The Anaheim Ducks, although mostly quiet on the Free Agent front, have extended a 2 year contract offer to the up and coming Center, Dustin Jeffrey. (2 years - $900K/yr);

Jussi Jokinen – The Finish born Left Winger has made quite a name for himself on recent years, scoring big goals at big times for his team.  That said, the
Oakland Seals may have one of the ‘steals of the summer’ with this signing.  (3 years - $1.5M/yr);

Ed Jovanovski – The veteran Defenceman has secured himself a 2 year contract with the Nashville Predators.  (2 years - $1.4M/yr);

Tomas Kaberle – Continuing with their roster overhaul, the Nashville Predators have added yet another Defenseman in Tomas Kaberle.  Kaberle should be able to stabilize and quarterback the Preds’ powerplay, improving its efficiency from last year.  (2 years, $3.2/yr);

Zack Kassian – Although Kassian has not yet suited up for an NHL or UHP team, this gritty power forward with an edge to his game shows lots of promise to be an effective hockey player.  Losted at 6’3”, 215lbs, the right winger will add even more grit and skill to an already good Winnipeg Jets’ team. (3 years, $900K/yr);

Saku Koivu – The Oakland Seals’ have locked up Saku Koivu to a 1 year deal.  Without committing to a long term deal, the Seals’ have surely filled their 3rd line Center position with the skillful center. (1 year, $1.6M/yr);

Zenon Konopka – Known more for punching his opponent in the face than scoring goals, the gritty 4th line center will join the Ottawa Senators for this upcoming season.  When asked about his thoughts on the Senators’ team, Konopka was quite blunt.  “We’re going to go out there and kick some ass.  Really.. that’s what I plan on doing…. And if you don’t like it, I”ll kick your ass again”.  Oh, Zenon!  (1 year, $600K/yr);

Sergei Kostitsyn  - Adding size and skill to their winger positions, the Ottawa Senators have signed S. Kostitsyn.  “We realize that Sergei has seen time in both the pro and farm team levels over the past couple of years, but we are confident that Sergei can be a consistent point producer on our hockey club”, stated Patrick Bazinet, GM of the Ottawa Senators; (1 year, $1.3M/yr);

Niklas Kronwall – Stepping out of Niklas Lidstrom’s shadow in last year’s playoffs, Kronwall has shown that he is a good puck mover, and can bring the bone crunching hits when called upon… Isn’t that right, Heatley!  The interesting question here is whether Kronwall will be able to increase his point production while his career continues to rise, all while helping his new team, the Pittsburgh Penguins. (3 years, $4.8M/yr);

Pavel Kubina – After seeing the Nashville Predators sign a pair of Defenseman, it shouldn’t come as a shock to see them sign yet another in Pavel Kubina.  Kubina will try to regain the form he once saw with the Tampa Bay Lightning in terms of point production on the Power Play. (3 years, 1.8M/yr);

Chris Kunitz – Earlier reports had Chris Kunitz going to the Anaheim Ducks on a 2 year contract, worth a total of $1.2M.  However, upon further investigation, these facts have been determined to be rumours only.

Robin Lehner – Looking after their Goaltending prospects, the Oakland Seals have come to terms on a 3 year deal with young goalie prospect, Robin Lehner.  Lehner will most certainly start the year in either the farm team or back to Junior (prospect list).  That said, even if this is true, Antti Niemi and Jonas Hiller better watch their back and make sure they are not being Hunted by the aggressive youngster. (3 years, $900K/yr);

Nicklas Lidstrom – While it was another offseason of question marks surrounding the 1st Ballot Hall of Famer’s retirement plans, it was determined that Lidstrom will give at least 1 more kick at the can in hopes to adding yet another championship ring to his collection.  The New Jersey Devils have come to an agreement with a 2 year deal. (2 years, $4.1M);

Tony Lydman – One of the most underrated Defenseman in the league, Lydman has helped many of his Buffalo teams find success.  Based on that fact, the Oakland Seals hope that this will remain the case, as the Seals will be chasing their 3rd straight UHP Championship (2 years, $800K/yr);

Manny Malholtra – With his hockey career being in jeopardy late last year during the Stanley cup run, the doctors have since cleared the veteran center to resume his hockey career.  Los Angeles was the only team to submit a bid for said player, and have filled a nice bottom 6 role on their team.  (1 year, $500K/yr);

Patrick Marleau – Winnipeg made a big splash with the signing of Patrick Marleau.  Criticized last year by controversial hockey figure, Jeremy Roenick, Marleau played well down the stretch and into the playoffs to prove Roenick that he’s just a loud mouth moron.  Should be a good fit in the frozen tundra, that is Winnipeg. (3 years, $6.2M/yr);

Ryan Mcdonagh – Looking to stick a full season with the big club, McDonagh is heading to the New Jersey Devils. (2 years - $500K);

Andy McDonald – The Devils are planning to play with the puck on their stick more this season.  As a result, they have inked face-off man, Andy McDonald to a 2 year contract.  (2 years, $600K);

Ethan Moreau – In what is to be considered a depth move, the Nashville Predators have signed the former Edmonton Oilers captain to a 1 year contract.
(1 year, $600K/yr);

Brenden Morrow – One of the ‘Heart and Soul’ type of players that all teams would love to have on their team has also decided to continue his hockey career in The Music City, that being Nashville.  Hot girls in cowboy hats.  Can you blame him?  (1 year - $2.6M/yr);

Matt Moulson – Matt Moulson has also decided to head to the Western Conference in Nashville.  Question here is whether he can sustain his point production away from John Tavares. (3 years, $3.6M/yr);

Evgeni Nabokov – Late last season, Nabokov returned to North America.  However, once picked up on waivers – Nabokov refused to play for said team.  With a new season on the horizon, we’ll see if this contract dispute can be put to rest. Nabokov signs on with Nashville.  (2 years, $1.6M/yr);

Rick Nash – After having the Los Angeles Kings walk away from arbitration, which would have seen Rick Nash earn well over $8M in the following seasons, Nash hit the open market.  To nobody’s surprise, reports indicate that Nash received a number of offers.  Not surprisingly, the Big Apple has yet again used its luster to lure yet another high profile UFA with a significant contract.  The 3 year, $31.5M contract is the largest in UHP’s Unrestricted Free Agency history, making Nash the second highest paid player, just behind Evgeni Malkin. (3 years, $10.5M/yr).

Max Pacioretty – Following a difficult off-season filled with injury rehab after taking a face full of turnbuckle at the hands of Chara last season, the Ottawa Senators still see lots of potential in Pacioretty.  The UHP media caught up with Max coming out of a movie theatre, and captured the following for comment. “Rehab has went surprisingly well.  I’ll be ready to go for my new team, the Ottawa Senators”. (3 years, $800K/yr);

Dion Phaneuf – With a surprising twist, Dion Phaneuf will suit up for his 3rd Canadian team during his pro hockey career, as the Montreal Canadians have signed the former Junior stud Defenseman to a 2 year contract.  “Mike (Komisarek) had nothing but great things to say about the city, which really helped me make my decision as to where I was going to play this year). (2 years, $3.5M/yr);

Jason Pominville – The Winnipeg Jets’ fans will certainly be excited this coming season, as they have landed another impact forward in Jason Pominville.  Known for being a ‘Senator Killer’, Pominville will bring his killer instincts with him when he puts on the Jets jersey for the first time later on this month. (3 years, $3.9M/yr);

Tom Poti -  Nashville with yet another depth signing, as they add Tom Poti to their roster. (2 years, $500K/yr);

Chris Pronger – After being in the middle of a locker room rift, Pronger has found a new home in Nashville.  Management hopes that Pronger is not the cause, but will be part of the solution going forward. (3 years - $3.4M/yr);

Teddy Purcell – Winnipeg has signed Teddy Purcell to a 3 year deal.  Purcell was instrumental in last year’s strong playoff push, which almost got his team to the Stanley Cup Finals. (3 years, $2M/yr).

Rest assured that our news reporters will be working around the clock in order to bring you the most up to date Free Agent signings, as UHP enters its 3rd year of hockey operations.

Stay Tuned!

Thursday, September 1, 2011

UHP Free Agency – Round 1 Results

After much anticipation, the first stage of Free Agency ha come to a close.  UHP reporters have been busy late into the night and early this morning attempting to get any details on potential signings around the league.  Not wanting to speculate and embarrass their employer in the case of being totally off the mark, all information gathered has been held back until it has been 100% verified.

All teams have been contacted and UHP can confirm the following signings, along with their contract details.

Daniel Alfredsson – Not anticipating a long-term contract mainly due to his age and number of recent injuries, Alfredsson has been able to secure perhaps his last pro contract, as he has decided to join the Los Angeles Kings this upcoming season.  (1 year - $2.5M);

Ashton Carter – A late 1st round draft pick in the 2009 NHL draft, Carter has signed on with the Pittsburgh Penguins.
(3 years - $600K/yr);

Cody Bass – The Ottawa Senators have decided to give Cody Bass a look signing him to a 1 year contract
(1 year - $500K);

Kevin Bieksa – The solid blue-liner has signed a 3 year deal with the Pittsburgh Penguins at $900K per year.  When interviewed, Bieksa had the following to say “Choosing Pittsburgh was an easy choice for me, as I’ve been a fan all my life, and strongly believe that the Penguins’ organization is one of the classiest in the business”. (3 years - $900K/yr);

Jonathan Blum – A solid defenseman in the making, Jonathan Blum has decided to continue his hockey career while signing on with the New Jersey Devils. (1 year - $500K);

Martin Brodeur – While some continue to question Martin’s ability to play a significant amount of games while maintaining a high caliber performance for an entire season and into the playoffs, the Nashville Predators certainly are not among them, as they have inked the future Hall of Fame goalie to a 2 year contract worth a total of $5.4M (2 years - $2.7M/yr);

Matt Carle – In order to shore up their defense, the Oakland Seals have inked steady defenseman Matt Carle to a 3 year deal.  (3 years – 4.2M/yr);

Ryan Clowe – After fielding multiple offers, Ryan Clowe has made his decision to move on from the Los Angeles Kings, and have joined the Eastern Conference by signing a deal with the New Jersey Devils.  Insider information suggests that this was an extremely difficult decision for Clowe, and came down to total contract value.  Devils’ management had the following to say regarding the signing - “We are extremely happy to have been able to attract Ryan Clowe to our hockey club. We feel that he is the exact type of player our organization needs… Sizeable Power Forward that can put the puck in the net”. (2 years – 6.5M/yr);

Erik Cole – The Los Angeles Kings have been able to land determined hockey player, Erik Cole to a 1 year contract.  Cole has become a fan favorite among the hockey community, having battled his way back to the NHL after breaking his neck a number of years ago (1 year - $2.5M);

Tim Connolly – Coming off a relatively injury free season, Tim Connolly has chosen the New Jersey Devils as his new home for the next 2 years (2 years - $600K);

Jared Cowen – Jared Cowen, who is coming off a superb World Junior Championship tournament for Team Canada, has joined the Oakland Seals by signing a 3 year contract.  Cowen will be another player among the UHP that may be on the verge of cracking the Active Roster come the regular season opener (3 years - $800K);

Simon Despres – Having spent the last 4 years with the Saint John Sea Dogs in the QMJHL, Despres has signed on with the team that originally drafted him, the Pittsburgh Penguins.  (3 years - $800K/yr);

Shane Doan – According to UHP sources, Shane Doan was about to sign a 1 year deal with a Western Conference team.  However, when asked about the signing, Doan indicated that the New Jersey Devils offered a 2 year contract which changed his decision. (2 year - $2.1M/yr);

Christian Ehrhoff – One of the biggest names of this year’s Free Agency received an offer from the majority of the teams within the UHP.  Known for his offensive abilities, Ehrhoff has signed a long-term contract with the Oakland Seals, adding even more firepower to the Seals Blue line.  (3 years - $5.6M/yr);

Mike Fisher – One of the more respected players in the game, known for his ‘Go All Out’ attitude, Mike Fisher received a couple of similar offers.  When asked why Fisher chose to join the New York Rangers, he had the following to say: “I have played against the Rangers a number of times in my career… ever since my first game here at Madison Square Garden, I’ve always wanted to be part of this culture/lifestyle”.  Further in the interview, Fisher revealed that contract length was one of the deciding factors as well (2 years - $2.5M);

Tomas Fleischman – Sidelined for a portion of last year’s regular season due to a blood clot in his leg, doctors appear to have cleared the Winger to play.  The Ottawa Senators have decided to trust the doctor’s word, and have signed Fleishman to a 3 year contract.  (3 years - $3M/yr);

Francois Beauchemin – Known more for his ‘Stay at Home’ abilities and big hits, the Los Angeles Kings have signed the experienced defenseman in Francois Beauchemin to a 1 year deal (1 year - $500K);

Marian Gaborik – Once often injured winger, Marian Gaborik, has held numerous meetings with his agent trying to find a place to land for the upcoming UHP season.  “Given the number of significant contract offers my client has received, it just goes to show  you that teams are confident that the injury bug is well behind Marian at this stage in his career.  He will certainly fit in great with his new team, the Oakland Seals, who will aim at winning their 3rd straight UHP Championship” (3 years - $5.8M/yr);

Nathan Gerbe
– After a solid regular season last year, Gerbe will attempt to improve even more this year with the Winnipeg Jets.  (3 years - $1.2M);

Colin Greening – Having been called up late last season, Colin has shown he has what it takes to play in the big leagues.  The 6’3”, 210lbs winger will suit up with the Ottawa Senators for the next 2 years.  Using his size and speed, Greening will try to be a constant and reliable contributor for the Senators. (2 years. $1M).

All round 1 submissions can be viewed at this link: https://docs.google.com/spreadsheet/ccc?key=0ApAg2gUBWM7DdFdnSDd2WkhMNEZEVnhEUTFvcURKaVE&hl=en_US

Reports indicate that there are more contract negotiations going on with a large number of other players in anticipation of the following rounds.  Our staff is working extremely hard in obtaining these details, and will pass them along to you as soon as we are confident that we are 100% correct on these details.

Round 2 will begin Tuesday, September 6th, 2011. Submission deadline is Friday, September 9th, 2011