DON

Czechs skipped on numerous NHLers, like Hemsky ? 100% politics I would assume?

My memory is going I guess.

No one can argue with Keith, he is just a super all-round d-man (and plays safe even under pressure) and Weber is a solid big strong defensive d-man with a huge shot (and his shot through the net in last Olympics wasn't likely forgotten by mgmt). Bowmiester-Pietroangelo are a super shut-down pairing, etc. But line-ups on paper are just that and their play will dictate who play how much and with whom. I wouldn't get too worked up over media placements and Subban played a bit role in his 1st world juniors also and his skills still stood out.

Really, I don't remember him being called up this year? He hasn't been has he?

Jets lost 4 in a row, which players are they gonna turf for pick/prospects? Oilers simply are horrible defensively (161 goals against) and battling Sabres for 30th place, when will they make a move for defense/leadership? Flames got spanked 6-0 yesterday, Hudler or Glencross gonna be swapped by Burke? Would either be an upgrade for Habs?

Bang on; Dumont, Blunden or LL will play a small role, but Blunden seems to be best fit for a checking role and Dumont maybe is best 'energy' guy. I would be curious to see how LL could do with Habs, but 6-7minutes of ice may not be much of an audition?

Well, if Price is going I guess he might as well play. I think the exhibition games and first 2 'real' games are cakewalks (Norway and some other chump), so likely 2 goalies will split a few games and with Luongo injured (I know still lots of time till then but), Smith maybe has a shot? Or could be starter is already nailed down?

Maybe niether one even plays, there are 3 goalies to pick from?

Dumont or Blunden seem to be best to call up options (to me anyways), but I almost think LL will get a crack at filling in for Bournival's reduced role and Bournival get an increased workload with Eller as Galchenyuk's replacement (which is simply an extra 2 minutes/3-4 shifts/game)?

Galchenyuk is on exact same offensive pace as Taylor Hall/Eberle in their 1st full year. So, maybe it is just your expectations are what he isn't meeting and seems is on a normal development curve for a talented kid. Plus he is only 8th in forward icetime, so is just getting 3rd line minutes, not top 6 minutes and is still 3rd in forward scoring. But still it sucks for sure.

Hell of a roster. Interesting to see Hamhuis and Duchene made it, nice.

Habs have only had one 100+point season (07-08) since 102pts in 92-93. Habs last year were on pace for 107points (with a season end collapse and backing into playoffs), this year are on pace for 103. Doing quite well under new management. Some seem to be critical about "how" win, but they keep collecting points and all that really matters till April.

Just a minor tweek or two at end of Feb. is what I realistically expect, but of course a nice big trade is exciting, at least for a shirt while, till you see why the other teams traded that player to you in first place.

Pacioretty with 9 shots and a few hits, great game. I would only call up AHL guys if injury occurs.

No

Emelin is benched eh?

Thomas is often quite entertaining and has his own unique style.

Emelin is some scary dude with the puck and lost coverage on that one

Why hasn't Tomas ever even had an 'A' with the Habs? I have wondered that for a couple years, he seems like he isn't scared to speak with refs or media and works his ass off most games.

Agreed, is he maybe hurt? It wouldnt have anything to do with a possible trade? As much as I find Murray "entertaining" , Diaz is superior to both Murray/Boullion and simply haven't seen a dip in Diaz's game. Maybe I am missing something?

de la Rose was awarded some Swedish junior player of year, or something like that eh? Hope Lekonen not hurt too badly.

Yup. 17points in last 9 games with another goal yesterday and now tied for 15th in OHL scoring (I am not exactly sure when the GMs son was traded/left for Sweden) But Vail playing on defense last year was likely unexpected and odd and not sure Windsor has been the best team for his development? As a 4th year junior Vail's numbers should be good, mostly playing vs younger kids, but they said he played well in Hamilton last spring in the 12 game stint he had last spring and he could be a solid 2 way pro centre? Dalton Thrower who is 5th year junior, with 2 point game yesterday is 9th in WHL d-scoring. But as Commandant says, his numbers must be treated with grain of salt, as older kids tend to dominate simply because of age/experience/maturity difference. But is still encouraging to see these 2 kids doing very well.

I had to pull for the underdog country, with smaller population than Quebec. Good game. Collberg, de la Rose played pretty much as expected, but Lehkonen's defensive smarts and strength on skates was bit surprising and great to see, Saku II? Lehkonen almost had gold-winning goal a few moments before the end.

2 year deal I would be all for, but 3 years is too long

Near future will likely be trade deadline with a minor tweek or 2.