Things boiled over when Ryan Kesler gave Marian Gaborik a shove during a line change with under 16 minutes left. Earlier in the stanza, Kevin Bieksa cheapshotted Gaborik without the puck knocking him down. Kesler, who also was the best player on the ice netting three assists- finally drew the Rangers’ ire as 10 players were still out there when it happened. That included rookie Dane Byers, who’s no stranger to rough stuff. He wasn’t about to put up with it and finally challenged Bieksa, which only escalated the drama that saw 10 Rangers remain out while seven Canucks also were with many ready to do battle.

Just when things seemed under control, it got going again when Shane O’Brien came from the far side of the Vancouver bench and stuck the butt end of his stick into Sean Avery, who didn’t take well to it, grabbing his stick with TSN’s Ray Ferraro backing up as far as possible in between the benches of what was a dangerous situation. Good thing nothing further happened. Normally, due to his reputation, many would assume Avery did something to provoke the incident which the league will hold a hearing with O’Brien. But even Chicken Parm could see that that wasn’t the case with O’Brien getting a misconduct while Sean got zilch.

As for Byers, with the game out of reach, John Tortorella sent him out to fight Tanner Glass with 70 seconds left, earning an instigator and game misconduct to finish the night with 29 penalty minutes. As expected, the NHL took the appropriate action fining Tortorella 10 grand and suspending Byers an automatic game that will cost him $2,590. Tort’s fine goes to the NHL Foundation while Byers’ goes to the Players’ Emergency Assistance Fund.

Still, we could care less because it’s about time a player defended a teammate. Especially Gaborik. Now, if only someone would step in for Henrik Lundqvist. The only way opponents will back off is if the team continues to send messages. Anyway, here’s how it looked and sounded courtesy of TSN:

The initial play happened on the first shift of the period. MSG only showed the two good clean takeouts but later caught the one that rubbed Byers the wrong way. Nice to see someone stand up for our best player, who otherwise was blanketed by former Wild ‘mate Willie Mitchell and a tight Vancouver D that always had him doubled. The melee almost got out of hand but the refs prevented what I really was craving. An oldschool Slap Shot moment that we used to get in the 80′s and early 90′s. Oh darn.

Well, it still wasn’t over due to goofball Shane O’Brien, who jabbed Sean Avery with his stick between benches with Ray Ferraro scared to death. Could ya blame Chicken Parm as O’Brien’s stick came dangerously close to hitting him? Avery of course took his stick and laughed. But it was one dumb move by the Vancouver D which cost him a power play against and a misconduct. Miraculously, the appropriate call even if Avery was involved. The Rangers at least tied it when Christopher Higgins actually scored his first as the PP expired off a nice Brandon Dubinsky setup with Chris Drury earning the secondary.

With the ‘Nucks rattled, Darcy Hordichuk took an unsportsmanlike conduct handing the Blueshirts a second straight man-advantage. However, they couldn’t cash in which swung the momentum. Soon after, one too many passes by Ales Kotalik, who looked for October NHL Top Rookie Mike Del Zotto, resulted in a turnover which the Rangers never recovered from. Ryan Kesler, who was by far the best player- then outmuscled and outhustled a lazy Michal Rozsival (duh) before circling around to find wide open teammate Rick Rypien for a gimme upstairs.

That the decider came from a gritty fourth liner didn’t even matter because the coverage on the play was so sloppy. The Rangers as both Higgins and John Tortorella noted, never rotated with the coach making reference to Rozy’s lost battle that started it. He did at least take Tanner Glass in front. But Sean Avery got lost and Rypien snuck in unchecked.

There was little Henrik Lundqvist, who turned aside 26 of 29 could do. He again had little help as the Blueshirts’ offense has gone dry, scoring only five in their last four games during a 1-3 stretch. Even with Gaborik back in, they’ve gotten just one total in the last 120 minutes with of course it coming from The Big Ticket in the 1-0 blanking of a Boston team that was shutout again by Detroit last night. So, not a whole lot to hang your hat on.

How wild was the third? Aside from the chaos which Lundqvist, Tortorella, Higgins and Dan Girardi all couldn’t explain afterwards, there also was the glass being broken behind Henrik’s net creating another delay. So, after they replaced it with a new piece, somehow they forgot to retrieve a broken piece which remained dangerously behind the net when play continued? What if a player had slipped on it or God forbid was checked and well ya know? Yikes. Why not just leave the ladder out there, why don’t ya?!?!?!?!?!

The Rangers just couldn’t make it happen against backup Andrew Raycroft, who was splendid turning aside all 14 second period shots en route to 22 stops. While the former B’s Calder winner was good, his D did an outstanding job clearing the front of the net. They also did a masterful job offensively with a relentless attack led by Kesler (3 assists) and a gritty Henrik Sedin, who after limping off following a blocked shot, returned to ice it with an empty netter. We’ve always been a huge fan of his and even minus twin brother Daniel, the guy’s all heart along with immense skill. As for Kesler, he was all over the ice just dominating out there. He better be on Team USA. This kid is the real deal.

Former Ranger Mikael Samuelsson put the contest out of reach with his second of the night, rebounding home a wide Kesler shot that caromed to him for a PPG. Rozsival was in the box for a phantom hook on Sedin. Though it wasn’t his fault, he was on the ice for two goals against and just can’t take physical contact. Maybe it’s due to all the wear and tear. But the guy’s a shell of himself. When he first came here, he was a decent player. Something many Ranger fans like to conveniently forget. The new contract has been a disaster. It’s seriously time to consider paying him not to play. He just has zero confidence and anything that can go wrong does. The poor guy can’t get out of his own way.

I say we may as well just call someone up. I don’t care who. Bobby Sanguinetti is putting up points wasting away at Hartford. Maybe it’s time to see what he can do. If not, then who or when? Rozsival also didn’t cover for Wade Redden following his giveaway that led to the first goal. Not one of Tinman’s better moments but he had few options unless he could’ve iced it. And making matters worse, I’ll say it. Henrik gave up a crap rebound which Samuelsson deposited. The kind you can’t allow to a good team like the Canucks, who even minus one Sedin and Roberto Luongo, look very much like a Cup contender.

Hey. Even if their fans can’t seem to get over ’94, they should be pretty excited about the team they got. It’s plenty good and should seriously challenge.

Renney Reunion Thursday: As for the Rangers, it’s back to the drawing board with a day off before the Tom Renney reunion in Edmonton tomorrow night. For those including us that were hard on him at the bitter end, let’s remember that he did a solid job putting this franchise back on the map. It was his idea to form the rookie prospect camp and get more serious about drafting and developing. Of course, he had Henrik and Jaromir Jagr, who helped get the team back to the playoffs, even making a run to the Conference Semis where Buffalo ousted them in a close six with those last few seconds of Game Five in which Drury tied it, still a sore spot.

What if he’d had the right personnel out instead of Michael Nylander? The one time Blair Betts should’ve been out and he got burned. Then Maxim Afinogenov wins it in OT and the Sabres put them away at MSG. The next year, they were never beating the Crosby/Malkin Pens as they had just too much skill. Renney had a nice run here. He’s now an assistant to Pat Quinn with a speedy Oiler club that’s slumped lately and should be ready to go.

Had we won last night, I’d have said start Steve Valiquette against his former team. But I doubt Tort will now do that. Especially with the team still in a funk with Calgary Saturday. We’ll see if they can get it in gear tomorrow night.

BONY 3 Stars:

3rd Star-Andrew Raycroft, (22 saves incl.14/14 in 2nd, GA in last 2 starts)

2nd Star-Mikael Samuelsson, (2 goals incl. PPG, 2 SOG-100 pct., takeaway, +2 in 18:24)

1st Star-Ryan Kesler, (3 assists, 2 SOG, hit, takeaway, blocked shot, 14-9 draws, +1 in 20:27)

Vancouver will be without Roberto Luongo again, with Andrew Raycroft instead subbing. Obviously, it’s not the same as facing one of the best netminders in the game but Raycroft is coming off a 3-0 shutout of the Avs. Not surprisingly, minus Louie and Daniel Sedin, the ‘Nucks have been up and down literally, trading wins and losses. Hopefully for the Rangers, that’s a good sign that Vancity’s due for an ‘L.’

The Blueshirts are coming off a 1-0 shutout win over the Bruins, who at last check trailed Detroit late in the third 2-zip in a Versus game. Henrik Lundqvist will look to build on his first shutout (21st career) as they try to get this trip off on the right foot. They’ve only won two of their last seven since a 7-1 start. So, it would be nice to make it two straight and build some momentum into Edmonton.

Marian Gaborik scored the lone goal in his first game back after missing a pair due to a knee injury. The Big Ticket’s been everything and more pacing the club with 11 goals and 19 points while meshing with new alternate captain Vinny Prospal, who’s been a breath of fresh air, leading them with 14 assists and a plus-eight rating. His 18 points trail Gabby by one. It was his nifty feed that the new No.10 converted the other night.

Prospal is an excellent choice as the other ‘A’ as he’s been leading ever since he got here after Tampa bought him out. The same team that then overpaid Alex Tanguay (1-4-5). They’re still paying Prospal, who’s the biggest FA bargain. So, when everyone focuses in on who we overpay, maybe they should take a step back and look at the other side. If you really think about it, all the guys Glen Sather signed have been performing. Now, if only Christopher Higgins, Chris Drury and the other alternate we love, Ryan Callahan started contributing.

The Rangers will be without Enver Lisin and Donald Brashear tonight. In practice, Tort had Higgins working with Prospal and Gaborik, rewarding his strong effort the other night. Whether he gets the chance to stay depends on the start. Artem Anisimov could get more time on the top unit as well. Definite lines should have Brandon Dubinsky centering Callahan and Sean Avery along with Drury working with Ales Kotalik and Dane Byers. If Higgins starts on line one, then Anisimov plays with Brian Boyle and Aaron Voros. It should be interesting to see what changes the coach makes as the game progresses.

The back end should again be the same with Michal Rozsival okay. The question is can the Blueshirts finally conquer their GM place demons where they’ve dropped four straight since prevailing some 12 years ago? Remains to be seen.

Who: NYR @ Van

Where: GM Place

When: 10 PM on MSG

-While the first Western Canadian battle between the Canucks and Flames lived up to its billing thanks to some fight from Vancouver that ultimately fell short, the same can’t be said for the Sharks, who apparently were suffering from the postseason malaise in a 5-2 loss at Colorado. Lowlights included Dany Heatley going minus-three and Evgeni Nabokov picked apart for five on 20 shots. An inauspicious debut which probably had Bryan Murray spilling the popcorn. Joe Thornton, Dan Boyle and Devin Setoguchi were no shows along with Heater combining for minus-8 while the younger Avs drew inspiration from seeing Joe Sakic’s No.19 retired. At least captainless Patrick Marleau remembered to play tallying twice.

-Oddly enough, another hot pick the Bruins failed to show at home in a depressing 4-1 defeat to the Caps, who clicked on all cylinders with Alexander Ovechkin scoring twice and Brooks Laich adding a pair on a dangerous power play which could approach 30 percent. The passing on the two goals was sick with predicted 100-point center Nicklas Backstrom taking the B’s apart for three helpers. Though his two misdirections to Laich were beauties, our favorite goal had to be Ovie’s first with both Backstrom and Alex Semin double dropping to an on-rushing Great Eight who wired it top shelf past a chanceless Tim Thomas. Sick would be a good way to describe the two-time rating MVP who added insult to injury with another when he outhustled a lazy Milan Lucic to bury a Tom Poti setup. For some reason, Boston seemed to skate in quicksand laying an egg. Patrice Bergeron did breakup Jose Theodore’s shutout on a breakaway but that was it as the Caps dominated on special teams (2 of 4 PP, 5 of 5 PK) while outshooting the lifeless hosts 34-20. Obviously, it was all Phil Kessel’s fault.

-Speaking of Kessel, the newest Leaf got a rousing ovation from a pumped up ACC during a great opening ceremony against their bitter rival Habs, who overcame defensive deficiencies to pull out a 4-3 OT win. The intro included honoring some of Team Canada’s greatest heroes with Cassie Campbell, Darryl Sittler, Mario Lemieux and 1972 Summit Series legend Paul Henderson all participating in the ceremonial drop of the puck. A wonderful way to kickoff the season. When the puck was dropped, it was predictably back and forth between the Original Sixes who always seem to wind up in overtime or a shootout. Despite some Leaf dominance that resulted in twice the shots (46-27), a lack of discipline from ex-Hab Mike Komisarek cost his team a ‘W’ when he took his sixth penalty of the night resulting in Glen Metropolit’s PPG that tied it with 4:10 left in regulation. Apparently, Komisarek wanted to drive Brian Burke batty with a case of too much testosterone. His first minor also resulted in ex-Devil Brian Gionta’s first as a Canadien that opened the scoring. If his goal was to aid a familiar opponent, mission accomplished. Francois Beauchemin wasn’t much better going minus-two while also failing to pickup Gionta off a faceoff. He also got pushed off the puck by Metropolit who fed fourth liner Travis Moen for a goal. He’d later assist on the first of two Matt Stajan PPG that saw Tomas Kaberle make a great shot pass for a redirect. Stajan got his second with under 11 minutes left in regulation from linemates Jason Blake and gifted rookie Viktor Stalberg, who was all over the ice. However, Komisarek and Beauchemin’s failure to take Hab OT hero Josh Gorges on a great individual rush by Mike Cammalleri resulted in one point. The Habs owe Carey Price a steak dinner because despite looking shaky, he was the only reason they won making 43 stops to make Jacques Martin a winner in his Montreal debut.

-Also of note on the Montreal side was how dreadful Hal Gill looked. The big man was slower than a tortoise getting taken off the puck completely by Mikhail Grabovski who fed Alexei Ponikarovsky to tie it 1-1. Perhaps he thought Sid The Kid and Geno were still teammates. He finished minus-one but was flat out scary with former Ranger Paul Mara not much better. How could they seriously be a tandem? At least ex-Sabre Jaroslav Spacek was alright going plus-one with four shots in 24-plus. Tomas Plekanec had a nice game netting two assists as did Cammalleri, who really looked good along with Gionta while Scott Gomez was more spectator doing his annual bakery rendition.

-In his Leaf debut, Colton Orr didn’t disappoint going with Georges Laraque off a faceoff only 1:51 in. The bout was entertaining with each doing well while livening the atmosphere. Orr’s rookie linemate Jay Rosehill also impressed in his NHL debut pounding Moen who took it like a man and cameback to help his team win.

-The highlight of the night though was Sakic’s jersey retirement with the Avs doing a nice ceremony honoring their former captain who led them to the franchise’s only two Stanley Cups. Not surprisingly, the future Hall Of Famer was very classy and elegant in a speech that thanked everyone including former GM Pierre Lacroix, even crediting him for his rise to stardom during last decade when the then Nordiques relocated to Colorado where they won in 1996 and 2001. Sakic also made sure to thank his beautiful wife Debbie and their three children for all the support as well as the fans. Unfortunately if you got Versus, they didn’t air it live for some reason. Why we don’t get since Caps-Bruins was already over. Instead, they took pointless commercials and recapped the one-sided affair before replaying Classy Joe’s speech minus the No.19 joining Patrick Roy and <gulp> Ray Bourque because he’ll always be a life long Av! Thankfully, NHL Network showed the retirement ceremony live. A big kudos to them.

-Perhaps inspired, a young rebuilding Avalanche club kicked the crap out of San Jose with Kyle Quincey in particular having a great start assisting on one of two Wojtek Wolski markers while playing physical in 27-plus. John Michael-Liles also had a big game finishing with a power play goal and assist. The vet D also didn’t take the dagger during an intermission interview on the ‘rebuild’ opting to focus on how nobody in the room talks about it. Instead, he and his teammates played very well not spoiling Sakic’s memorable night, giving the fans plenty to cheer for. Paul Stastny had two helpers and new No.1 goalie Craig Anderson made 38 saves including 19 in a busy third in which San Jose outshot them 19-1. Think Andrew Raycroft or backup Peter Budaj would’ve held up?

-Also netting their first career NHL points were 2009 first and second picks Matt Duchene and Ryan O’Reilly who each tallied assists. The No.3 overall pick Duchene showed a willingness to get dirty screening Nabokov on Liles’ goal earning praise from his teammate. The kid also sounded very poised during the first intermission explaining that the jump from Juniors wasn’t bad because players in the bigs know where to go. So, he doesn’t have to cover as much territory. Not bad insight from the future 18 year-old star who got over 14 minutes contributing to new coach Joe Sacco’s first NHL victory. He’s going to be a good one.

-In their win over Northwest nemesis Vancouver, Calgary got nice performances from Mark Giordano and Rene Bourque, who each had a goal and assist to make a winner of Brent “Benedict” Sutter behind the bench. The Flames jumped out 3-zip thanks to some bad penalties by the Canucks. But they worked their way back in it with goals off the sticks of Kevin Bieksa, ex-Wing Mikael Samuelsson and Alex Burrows whose tally sliced it to 4-3 41 seconds into the third. But despite constant forecheck pressure resulting in a 21-6 SOG edge (42-22 overall), they couldn’t beat a sharp Miikka Kiprusoff who stood tall finishing with more than half his 39 saves in the busy final stanza. Ex-Ranger Freddy Sjostrom contributed a helper on Brandon Prust’s decider as the Flames in their classic retro bright red and yellow jerseys took Round 1 of 6 by beating Roberto Luongo four times on just 22 shots. Dion Phaneuf- who leveled Daniel Sedin with a clean shoulder hit, catching the Sedin twin lunging for a puck- clinched it with an empty netter. It was Jarome Iginla’s only point as he and Olli Jokinen were essentially shutout while a supporting cast which included Nigel Dawes (assist) and Adam Pardy (goal) did the damage.

-One final thought before we call it a night. Can’t help but come away impressed by Kevin Weekes, who debuted in his new profession as a color analyst during the Flames’ 5-3 win over Vancity at The Saddledome. He’s very astute and is a good listen. It looks like a natural fit for the likable former netminder who played on both sides of the Hudson, ending a respectable career with the Devils.

Also lacing ‘em up to reunite one of the greatest sports rivalries are Original Sixes Montreal and Toronto live at Air Canada Centre. So, while some eyes will be on the brightest superstar Alexander Ovechkin in a possible Eastern Conference Final preview, we’ll certainly be glued to the beginning of Canadiens-Maple Leafs. Both teams have new looks and it should be worth watching to see how they debut in front of a buzzing soldout atmosphere.

The second part of the HNIC double includes another possible playoff preview when Western Canadian rivals Vancouver and Calgary get together at The Saddledome. Both boast strong rosters who should be neck and neck for the Northwest and possibly the West’s top seed all year. It should be great.

Here’s a little promo video of 2009-10:

Is This The Year?

One of many questions in a condensed Olympic year with Vancouver hosting the Winter Games in mid-February. How will contenders deal with the extended gap where many of the game’s best are on display? What might that mean for elite netminders Martin Brodeur, Marc-Andre Fleury, Cam Ward and favorite Canuck Roberto Luongo? It all could depend on who gets the nod in goal for Canada with an entire country watching. For others like Henrik Lundqvist and Miikka Kiprusoff, they’ll be asked to carry their rival countries’ workloads just as King Henrik did four years ago, delivering Olympic gold in Sweden’s exciting one-goal victory over the injured Kiprusoff’s Finnish countrymen. A dynamic duo is reunited with Teemu Selanne hoping pal Saku Koivu can be the good luck charm in chasing another Cup on a good Anaheim team. The Finnish Flash wants to go out in style. Can the same be said of Scott Niedermayer or might he stick around to play with younger brother Rob for a Jersey sequel?

In Beantown, one of the game’s most overlooked Mark Recchi tries to go out on top playing for what should be a very formidable Bruins team that includes Norris and Vezina winners Zdeno Chara and Tim Thomas. Claude Julien’s club is strong again with Marc Savard in a contract year and Milan Lucic brutalizing opponents. Despite tremendous depth, might they miss top finisher Phil Kessel, who will donn the jersey of despised Original Six rival Toronto when he returns? We’ll see.

Can anyone dethrone the mighty Pens who feature the best one-two punch with Conn Smythe winner Evgeni Malkin taking no backseat to Sidney Crosby. What’s scary is both will only get better before their 25th birthdays. Did we mention one’s 23 and the other 22? A daunting task for any team who plans on unseating them. Each should be a lock for 100 points with Geno eclipsing 40 goals and hitting 80 assists. How does a full year of Sergei Gonchar sound to Dan Bylsma’s ears? Meanwhile, John Stevens is hoping the big addition of Chris Pronger will make a difference against their Pennsylvania rival. Indeed, the Flyers are stacked with Pronger added to a blueline including Kimmo Timonen and Braydon Coburn. They also boast one of the best forward crops led by gritty captain Mike Richards and sniper Jeff Carter. There’s much to like but will Ray Emery become the punchline in a long futile list of Flyer netminders? Hopefully, he’ll control himself.

With a healthy Brodeur along with one of the game’s best Zach Parise as part of ZZ Popp (Parise-Zajac-Langenbrunner), the Devils should once again be good. Even minus Brian Gionta and John Madden, it’s hard to write off a team that’s made the playoffs 13 consecutive seasons. Gone is Brent “Benedict” Sutter and back is Jacques Lemaire, who is quite familiar with a franchise he guided to their first Cup. The vet coach is one of the game’s brightest minds who gets the most out of players. He also shouldn’t wilt like his predecessor did the past two Springs. If they lose, it’ll be because of a lack of center depth and the status of Patrik Elias (groin). The D also is a question. The same could be said for the revamped Rangers who have 10 new faces including rookies Matt Gilroy and Mike Del Zotto, who should improve the back end by default. Both are gifted with Gilroy poised but is Del Zotto fully ready? He’ll at least get to start on a roster that features high risk/reward Marian Gaborik who looks as good as ever. But how many games will the former Lemaire pupil play? Will additions Christopher Higgins, Ales Kotalik and Vinny Prospal panout under John Tortorella or might it be about Wade Redden and Michal Rozsival with Lundqvist muttering under his breath? It won’t be dull.

Is Bob Gainey’s Montreal makeover really an improvement? Surely, Scott Gomez will be rejuvenated playing with former EGG pal Brian Gionta and gifted scorer Mike Cammalleri. But who else will score and is a blueline that aged with Jaroslav Spacek, Hal Gill and Paul Mara really up to the challenge? At least Carey Price has Andrei Markov. Are the Hurricanes better with gritty additions Tom Kostopoulos and Andrew Alberts or might the Panthers or improved Lightning surprise? Will Florida miss Jay Bouwmeester or can they make their first postseason since Pavel Bure still played? Is a new look blueline that includes Mattias Ohlund and No.1 pick Victor Hedman enough to get the Lightning back on track? Alex Tanguay has never missed the playoffs and should benefit from Vinny Lecavalier, Martin St. Louis and Steven Stamkos, who’ll make Barry Melrose eat plenty of crow. Is this Ilya Kovalchuk’s final year in Atlanta? Russian comrades Nik Antropov, Slava Kozlov and Maxim Afinogenov hope not.

Can Tyler Myers bolster the Buffalo D enough to get them back in? As long as Thomas Vanek fills it up and Ryan Miller stays healthy, they’ll make noise in an improved Northeast where all five teams might reach 85 points. That includes Brian Burke’s new look Leafs featuring Francois Beauchemin and Mike Komisarek on D. A full year from Tomas Kaberle should help. How quickly will Swedish import Jonas Gustavsson overtake Vesa Toskala? Can Kessel silence the doubters who claim Savard made him? We didn’t realize returning from testicular cancer and improving every season (3 years) made a career. Are the Sens better now that headache Dany Heatley’s gone to classic underachiever San Jose where he should fit in with Joe Thornton, Patrick Marleau and Evgeni Nabokov? Alex Kovalev and Milan Michalek are good additions. If Pascal Leclaire performs, the Sens could sneak up on the competition.

Is John Tavares ready for primetime? It’ll be trial by fire for the Islanders top pick on a rebuilding club that features Kyle Okposo and Josh Bailey. Okposo shouldn’t rush back for Saturday’s opener versus the Pens. Mark Streit will benefit from Tavares, who’ll get plenty of opportunities to play for Scott Gordon. The 19 year-old center will get strong Calder competition from Hedman, Gilroy, Matt Duchene on a lowly Av club, Nikita Filatov, Ville Leino, Justin Abdelkader,  Colin Wilson and Viktor Stalberg.

Are the Blackhawks ready to take over a strong Central from the perennial Red Wings? They stole Marian Hossa and converted Tomas Kopecky but Hossa will miss time on a strong club that features dynamic duo Jonathan Toews and Mr. 20 Cent himself, Patrick Kane. Hossa replaces departed Martin Havlat, who ripped management on his way to Minnesota where he’ll team with Mikko Koivu. Chicago probably won’t miss their top scorer due a great cast that also includes Patrick Sharp, Dave Bolland and Kris Versteeg along with a solid defense led by Duncan Keith, Brian Campbell, Cam Barker and Brent Seabrook. But can a team that lost Nikolai Khabibulin go far with Cristobal Huet?

Speaking of The Bulin Wall, he landed in Edmonton where he’ll try to be the answer in net on a decent Edmonton club with a strong blueline in Sheldon Souray, a healthy Lubomir Visnovsky, Denis Grebeshkov and Tom Gilbert. Mike Comrie finally returns where it all started before his first poor decision. At least there’s Hillary Duff. The Oilers are deep at center but need more from Sam Gagner and Andrew Cogliano as well as enigma Ales Hemsky, who’s their best scorer. Patrick O’ Sullivan will be better but unless Dustin Penner shows, Pat Quinn and Tom Renney’s new club likely won’t see the Spring.

Two teams who could be in again are Columbus and St. Louis. Both surprised last year and should be in the mix. The Jackets need more offense and hope to get it from the talented Filatov who should have a role this time for Ken Hitchcock. That the vet coach guided them to a first ever postseason minus Derick Brassard and Jakub Voracek says plenty. Rick Nash has help with R.J. Umberger, Antoine Vermette and Kristian Huselius chipping in. Manny Malhotra replacement Sami Pahlsson is an upgrade. Fedor Tyutin and Jan Hejda lead a no-name D that gets the job done. They’ll be good but it hinges on Steve Mason, who must deal with the dreaded sophomore jinx that’s claimed previous goalies Jim Carey and Andrew Raycroft, who Canuck fans dread seeing. As for the Blues, Joel Queeneville adds a healthy Paul Kariya and Erik Johnson to a talented group including David Backes, T.J. Oshie, Patrik Berglund, David Perron, top sniper Brad Boyes along with vets Andy McDonald and Keith Tkachuk. If Chris Mason performs with Ty Conklin as strong insurance, they’ll be dangerous.

Speaking of Vancity, they’ll be formidable minus Mats Sundin, who retired earlier today. The great Swede who finished with 564 goals and 785 assists for 1,349 points is one of the best ever European players who should make the Hockey Hall Of Fame which boasts a very strong 2009 class in Steve Yzerman, Brett Hull, Luc Robitaille, Brian Leetch, Devil architect Lou Lamoriello and TV pioneer John Davidson, who all get honored on Nov.9 in Toronto. While Mats bids adieu, countrymen Daniel and Henrik Sedin look to lead a deep Canuck club to a first ever Cup. They’re joined by Christian Ehrhoff, Mathieu Schneider who were added to replace Ohlund on a blueline that boasts Alex Edler, Kevin Bieksa, Willie Mitchell and Sami Salo. If they stay healthy, along with Ryan Kesler, Alex Burrows, Pavol Demitra, Kyle Wellwood and Swedish import Mikael Samuelsson, this team should seriously challenge.

The competition comes from usual suspects Detroit, San Jose, Chicago and archrival Calgary who they start the season with Thursday at The Saddledome. The Flames added Bouwmeester to Dion Phaneuf, who should bounce back under Sutter. Gone is Cammalleri but captain Jarome Iginla gets a full year with Olli Jokinen. Rene Bourque, Daymond Langkow, David Moss and Curtis Glencross supply depth. It’s a good roster but Kiprusoff must start quickly. They’ll be chasing top dog Detroit who even minus Hossa, Samuelsson and KHL departed Jiri Hudler still boast Pavel Datsyuk, Henrik Zetterberg, Johan Franzen, Nicklas Lidstrom, Brian Rafalski, Niklas Kronwall and Chris Osgood. Did we mention Jonathan Ericsson, Leino and Abdelkader are all good? Indeed, Mike Babcock has a fine job but also knows how to run it. He’ll get plenty of help from Dan Cleary, Valtteri Filppula, Tomas Holmstrom and returnees Jason Williams/Todd Bertuzzi. Top prospect Jimmy Howard backs up Ozzie. Given how last year ended, they got plenty of incentive.

The Sharks are again strong thanks to Heatley getting his wish. We’re sure he’ll be dynamic with Jumbo Joe and Marleau. But Todd McLellan’s club will be judged on the second season. Until they and Nabokov prove they’re legit, there will be that huge question mark even though it’s plenty good enough with Dan Boyle and Rob Blake anchoring the D while Joe Pavelski, Ryane Clowe and Devin Setoguchi provide secondary help. Adding grit like Malhotra and Jed Ortmeyer can only be a plus on a team that never has enough.

Want a sleeper? It might come from LA who with the Ryan Smyth trade plus a healthy Justin Williams could be knocking on the door. Figure Anze Kopitar and Dustin Brown to bounce back on Terry Murray’s up and coming squad which includes Jack Johnson and Drew Doughty on the blueline with vet pickup Rob Scuderi. We like Team USA hopeful Jon Quick in net and Erik Ersberg backs up. But Jarret Stoll and classic tease Alexander Frolov must perform. We know Wayne Simmonds will.

Dallas also should be better due to a healthy Brenden Morrow and Brad Richards. Mike Ribeiro continues to prove how senile Gainey was trading him for Janne Niinimaa (but seriously). Loui Eriksson is their best finisher and James Neal is a budding power forward. How can they compete with Stephane Robidas and Matt Niskanen anchoring the D now that Sergei Zubov went home? Is Marty Turco done? Precisely why we see them falling short as should Nashville, who boasts a solid blueline led by Norris hopeful Shea Weber and Ryan Suter. Jason Arnott, Martin Erat, J.P. Dumont and Steve Sullivan are solid but David Legwand, Joel Ward and talented freshman Wilson are vital to any chances. Unless Pekka Rinne duplicates last year, it’s hard to see which is too bad cause Barry Trotz is our favorite coach.

The Wild get a new voice in Todd Richards, who wants to play a higher tempo that should benefit Havlat, Mikko Koivu and Petr Sykora. The supporting cast is sketchy with Pierre-Marc Bouchard, Andrew Brunette, Antti Miettinen and Owen Nolan being depended on along with Brent Burns, Marek Zidlicky and Nick Schultz on the back end. Youngsters James Sheppard and Cal Clutterbuck are promising but they’ll rely heavily on Niklas Backstrom.

For teams like the Avs and Coyotes, it’ll be a long season. At least Colorado can hang their hat on Duchene who teams with Ryan O’Reilly to help fans forget about Joe Sakic, who gets his No.19 retired tomorrow in the second part of the Versus doubleheader (10 ET/7 PT). Paul Stastny would get more attention elsewhere. Milan Hejduk and Wojtek Wolski are still around as is ageless Adam Foote along with Kyle Quincey, who they acquired for Smyth. Joe Sacco (that guy in Sega Genesis) coaches. At least Craig Anderson can play net.

The Phoenix situation is sad. The bankrupt franchise is in the hands of a judge who ruled earlier today against both the NHL and agenda oriented Jim Ballsillie. Will the madness ever end? It even put a dark cloud on Wayne Gretzky, who never distinguished himself behind the bench getting forced out. At least Dave Tippett has a resume which he’ll need with a mismatched group put together by Don Maloney, who thinks it’s good to invite Ranger rejects and actually signed Ryan Hollweg. At least Petr Prucha and Lauri Korpikoski play but that’s hardly encouraging for Mr. Jet/Coyote Shane Doan. The roster reads like a bunch of misfits with no plan. No disrespect to Ed Jovanovski, Adrian Aucoin, Matt Lombardi and Peter Mueller but it’s way too confusing. How else to explain Maloney’s unwillingness to take on Al Montoya, who had a shutout and won three of five starts in his first NHL action? Where are they headed with Ilya Bryzgalov and what is Jason LaBarbera doing on the roster? In a word, shameful. We feel for the fans.

And with that, here’s a look at our 2009-10 NHL predictions complete with playoffs, Cup pick and award choices:

EASTERN PREDICTIONS

+*1.Capitals   106 Pts

+*2.Penguins 103 Pts

+*3.Bruins       102 Pts

*4.Flyers           99 Pts

*5.Devils            98 Pts

*6.Canes             97 Pts

*7.Sabres           96 Pts

*8.Rangers         95 Pts

9.Senators          93 Pts

10.Panthers       92 Pts

11.Lightning       89 Pts

12.Canadiens     87 Pts

13.Maple Leafs  85 Pts

14.Thrashers      79 Pts

15.Islanders        68 Pts

PLAYOFFS

CONF QTRS:

(1) Caps over (8) Rangers in 6

(2) Pens over (7) Sabres in 6

(3) Bruins over (6) Canes in 7

(4) Flyers over (5) Devils in 6

CONF SEMIS:

(1) Caps over (4) Flyers in 7

(2) Pens over (3) Bruins in 7

CONFERENCE FINAL:

(2) Pens over (1) Caps in 6

WESTERN PREDICTIONS

+*1.Canucks     108 Pts

+*2.Sharks        106 Pts

+*3.Red Wings 104 Pts

*4.Flames           106 Pts

*5.Blackhawks   101 Pts

*6.Ducks                 99 Pts

*7.Blues                  95 Pts

*8.Blue Jackets     93 Pts

9.Kings                      89 Pts

10.Oilers                   88 Pts

11.Stars                      87 Pts

12.Predators            85 Pts

13.Wild                       84 Pts

14.Avalanche           72 Pts

15.Coyotes                 65 Pts

PLAYOFFS

CONF QTRS:

(1) Canucks over (8) Blue Jackets in 6

(7) Blues over (2) Sharks in 7

(3) Wings over (6) Ducks in 7

(4) Flames over (5) Hawks in 6

CONF SEMIS:

(1) Canucks over (7) Blues in 5

(3) Wings over (4) Flames in 6

CONFERENCE FINAL:

(3) Wings over (1) Canucks in 7

STANLEY CUP CHAMPION: Detroit Red Wings

NHL AWARDS

Calder-Matt Duchene

Vezina-Roberto Luongo

Norris-Shea Weber

Selke-Ryan Kesler

Jack Adams-Alain Vigneault

Byng-Pavel Datsyuk

Hart-Evgeni Malkin

Conn Smythe-Johan Franzen

First Coach Fired-Jacques Martin

Likely Scenario-Gainey sticks his neck on the line again and it backfires. Management finally realizes the real issue.

Take note, however – Isles’ phenom John Tavares will not be playing – he’s in another group of players that will play tomorrow night against the Oilers.

After picking up two vets, Vancouver GM Mike Gillis wasn’t done signing Mathieu Schneider to a one-year, $1.55 million deal. The New York native is 40 having played for eight teams including a return to Montreal following a trade from Atlanta last season. In 23 contests, he posted five goals and 12 assists helping the Habs make the playoffs before Original Six rival Boston swept them.

Now, Schneider moves onto his ninth club in the Canucks’ push for Lord Stanley. Apparently, he wants to see if he can chase down recently retired Mike Sillinger’s NHL record 12 teams. For that comical reason, we haven’t listed his clubs. Without looking it up, can anyone name all nine?

The Canucks are still trying to lockup goalie Roberto Luongo which could mean curtains for former No.1 pick Cory Schneider. In the mean time, they have improved their back end by adding depth to a proven top four that features Kevin Bieksa, Alex Edler, Sami Salo and Willie Mitchell. They also have gritty Shane O’Brien and are slightly over the cap. Might a trade be coming?

That excludes the latest Mats Sundin saga in which the vet who played half a season last year decides whether to return. With a solid nucleus that features The Sedins, Ryan Kesler, Kyle Wellwood, Mikael Samuelsson, Pavol Demitra, Alex Burrows, Steve Bernier and Calder hopeful Cody Hodgson, the Canucks look primed to make a run at the franchise’s first Cup. They’ve had some decent seasons with Luongo but never advanced past Round Two including a six-game ouster at the hands of the Blackhawks this past Spring. It’s about time they get over the hump.

Also keep on an eye on former sixth round Russian Sergei Shirokov who the club finally signed to come over. He played last season for CSKA Moscow of the KHL where he posted 17 goals and 24 helpers in 56 games. We remember the 23 year-old for his theatrics during the WJC a a few years ago when after scoring a goal while teamed with Evgeni Malkin, he imitated Hulk Hogan putting his hand to his ear earning jeers in The States.

Shirokov is a smooth skater with sweet hands which could come in handy at least in shootouts. The question is can he adjust to the more rugged North American style and if so, what kinda shot will he get on a deep roster that also includes Jannik Hansen and Mason Raymond?

If anything, it sure looks like the ‘Nucks are plenty good enough to seriously challenge.

Was checking Twitter and came across this interesting tweet from Nucks Misconduct’s Sean Zandberg. Is Mats Sundin calling it quits? After translating a story from a Swedish site, he quickly Zanstormed over with a new post on Nucks Misconduct. He was wise to give fair warning that Sundin’s agent denied the rumor and that his client was still keeping in shape undecided.

So, there ya have it. Pretty smooth work. Our guess is we probably won’t know anything for a while given Mats’ history. At least it will be a little more fun these next few weeks before September hits.

Last season, he didn’t make up his mind until almost Christmas selecting Vancouver over the Rangers. In 41 games for the Canucks, Sundin tallied nine goals and 19 assists for 28 points. It was enough to edge the Flames for the Northwest. Following a first round sweep of St. Louis, Sundin and Co. fell to the Blackhawks in six. The 38 year-old Swede pivot elevated his play registering eight points (3-5-8) in eight postseason games.

If he hangs it up, does that mean he’s out for a chance to defend Olympic Gold for his country? Let’s not forget the 2010 Winter Games are being hosted in Vancouver. An appetizing reason to return while also chasing Lord Stanley.

Over 18 seasons, Sundin’s tallied 564 goals and 785 assists totaling 1,349 points in 1,346 career games. All NHL records by a Swedish player. The 564 goals tie him with Joe Nieuwendyk for 20th all-time while the 1,349 points rank 25th on the all-time scoring list. No.13 is the all-time Maple Leafs’ franchise leader in goals (420) and points (984). He also is tied with current Devil Patrik Elias and former NHLers Sergei Fedorov and Jaromir Jagr for most career regular season overtime goals (15).

The former Quebec 1989 first overall selection has accomplished plenty winning Olympic gold (2006), appearing in nine All-Star games, tabbed Second All-Star Team twice, named to the 2002 Olympic All-Star Team and won the Mark Messier Leadership Award (2007-08). The only thing missing from a brilliant Hall of Fame career is a Stanley Cup.

Will that be enough to warrant to return? Like the Guns N’ Roses classic hit, we’ll need just a little Patience.

There had also been interest in the 34 year-old playmaking pivot shown by the Devils and Rangers. Guess getting the chance to team with your countryman was higher on the list than seeking long-term security. If you assess the Ducks, they’re probably a better fit than either Hudson rivals who aren’t going to be favorites in a loaded East that includes the defending champion Pens, revamped Flyers and hungry Bruins. Figure Alex Ovechkin and the Caps to also be in the mix.

If it were me, I’d rather play out West too. Sure. Koivu’s new team still has to contend with powerhouse Detroit and emerging Chicago as well as chief rival San Jose and Vancouver. The latter two haven’t proven they have what it takes while the Red Wings and Blackhawks have their rosters largely intact that comprised the Western Conference Final.

Even if Jiri Hudler really bolts for Dynamo Moscow of the KHL, the Wings will remain a force. Somehow, they’ll manage minus traitor Marian Hossa with Mikael Samuelsson easily replaced. As long as Pavel Datsyuk, Henrik Zetterberg, Johan Franzen, Nick Lidstrom, Brian Rafalski, Niklas Kronwall and Chris Osgood wear the Winged Wheel, they can’t be taken lightly. With emerging players such as Valtteri Filppula, Darren Helm, Ville Leino, Justin Abdelkader and Jonathan Ericsson, borrowing a phrase from legendary Buffalo announce Rick Jeanneret, Detroit’s depth is “scary good.”

That said, I’d still rather play in that conference than have to deal with the two-headed Malkin/Crosby monster in Pitt which should only get better. If only the Pens didn’t boast one of the league’s best in Marc-Andre Fleury. Jordan Staal, Sergei Gonchar, Brooks Orpik and Kris Letang aren’t pushovers.

As for Koivu, he finishes his 13-year Canadien career with 191 goals and 450 assists totaling 641 points in 792 games. Now, he’ll be asked to play a supporting role as Anaheim’s second line center behind the dynamic trio of Corey Perry, Ryan Getzlaf and Bobby Ryan. Figure him to team with long-time Finnish Olympic ‘mate Selanne on an improved roster that also added Joffrey Lupul via the Chris Pronger deal. With support players including Erik Christensen, Andrew Ebbett, Todd Marchant, Rob Niedermayer (UFA), Ryan Carter, Petteri Nokelainen and Drew Miller, the Ducks should be formidable.

The blueline is plenty stable minus Pronger and recently departed Francois Beauchemin with veteran Scott Niedermayer anchoring it along with Ryan Whitney, James Wisniewski, ex-Flyer No.1 pick Lucas Sbisa and Brendan Mikkelson. Boasting two No.1 caliber goalies in Jonas Hiller and Jean-Sebastien Giguere if he’s not moved, Anaheim should be a serious contender.

Not much else has happened today. Just one minor trade with Dallas acquiring goalie Alex Auld from Ottawa for a 2010 sixth round pick. Seems like a steal for Joe Nieuwendyk, who gets a steady backup who can also fill in if Marty Turco struggles like last year. He took advantage of a numbers situation with the Sens needing to move Auld with Pascal Leclaire expected to start with Brian Elliott backing up.

Here are today’s other signings:

1.Doug Janik signs with Red Wings for a year, two-way contract. The extra part in the Gomez/Higgins deal will probably spend a lot of time in Grand Rapids.

2.Jim Slater re-signs with Thrashers (no terms). Solid spark plug returns to Hotlanta.

3.Kurtis Foster signs with Lightning (terms disclosed). He was a solid player on the Minny blueline before injuries limited him to just 10 games this past season. It’s a smart calculated risk. Guess Big Bird ain’t staying.

That’s all for now. We’ll update later.