SPORT-SCAN DAILY BRIEF NHL 7/4/2020 Calgary Flames Maple Leafs 1187278 Cast your ballot for FAVE FLAME EVER of the 2010s 1187302 Divorcee Yolanda Ballard had a stormy romance with Maple Leafs owner Chicago Blackhawks 1187303 NHL's complicated new CBA not done yet 1187279 The Chicago Blackhawks face the in the 1187304 Visiting NHL hub teams have T.O. ties NHL play-in round. Here are 10 factors that could tip t 1187305 Duszak's confidence, solid finish with Marlies result in fine 1187280 Why the was late to Blackhawks' 2015 Game intro to pro hockey 6 win over Lightning Columbus Blue Jackets 1187315 Ben Kuzma: Chasing fitness fanatic Sedins could help 1187281 Circumstances won’t diminish Stanley Cup Edler extend NHL career 1187316 Wining and dining in NHL free agency: ‘Mr. Aquilini said Florida Panthers get whatever you want’ 1187282 Brian Boyle on being locked down in South Florida, history with Isles and more Vegas Golden Knights 1187306 Silver Knights season tickets go for as low as $10 1187307 Five potential Seattle expansion goalies Vegas could 1187283 Byfield? Stutzle? Drysdale? Examining the Kings’ best target via trade draft options at No. 2 1187308 City Of Henderson Says Petition To Hold Vote On Silver Knights Arena Project Has Procedure Flaw Minnesota Wild 1187284 Q&A: Wild GM Bill Guerin on Kaprizov, goaltending, Washington Capitals playing for first pick, more 1187309 The biggest 'what ifs' for the 2019-20 Capitals' season: What if Vrana had a top power play role all season? 1187310 Projecting the Capitals’ expanded playoff roster and lines 1187285 Stu on Sports: Giving Canadiens fans a reason for optimism vs. Penguins Websites 1187317 The Athletic / You gotta eat: NHL players name their favorite restaurants around the league 1187286 Devils ‘not ready to make playoffs,' but ‘absolutely’ should 1187318 The Athletic / All the details of the current framework for keep GM and coach, former exec says the NHL’s new CBA agreement 1187319 The Athletic / By the numbers: Can the Seattle NHL team replicate Vegas’ magical first season? 1187287 NHL, NHLPA yet to reach consensus on final return- 1187320 The Athletic / DGB Mailbag: Could a team of 20 Zdeno to-play details Charas beat a team of 20 Johnny Gaudreaus? 1187288 Brian Boyle on being locked down in South Florida, history 1187321 Sportsnet.ca / Potential CBA modifications emerging as with Isles and more NHL/NHLPA continue negotiations 1187322 Sportsnet.ca / Projecting Team Canada 2022: Crosby and McDavid together at last 1187289 Rangers’ European players all back in New York ahead of 1187323 Sportsnet.ca / Nine injured stars on track to return for the training camp Stanley Cup Playoffs 1187290 NHL, NHLPA yet to reach consensus on final return- 1187324 TSN.CA / Anton Lundell aims to be NHL's next two-way to-play details Finnish force Winnipeg Jets 1187291 Flyers flashback: ’s late mom, ’s 1187311 And the NHL's MVP in this most unusual season is... Gary odd strategy, Rick MacLeish’s produce a Stanley Bettman? 1187292 Flyers' Oskar Lindblom revels in emotional hospital 1187312 Canadian government grants quarantine exemption to farewell NHLers, deems NHL's return-to-play plan safe 1187293 Will Flyers re-sign Justin Braun, Derek Grant when NHL 1187313 FRIESEN: Agent for Jets goalies juggles the personal, free agency rolls around? professional, during pandemic 1187314 PIPELINE: Jets' Suess focused on here and now 1187294 Double Team: Larry Murphy was repeat champion with World Leagues News Penguins and Red Wings 1187325 Zero positive coronavirus tests ahead of F1 return 1187295 Which Penguins player could benefit the most from 1187326 Tennis: Australian Open loses millions in coronavirus another Stanley Cup title? pandemic insurance technicality 1187327 Jimmie Johnson tests positive for coronavirus, is first St Louis Blues NASCAR driver to confirm he has COVID-19 1187296 Another Barbashev enters NHL's pipeline 1187328 Lakers assistant Lionel Hollins, Pelicans assistant Jeff 1187297 Multiple Blues test positive for COVID-19 Bzdelik won’t attend restart due to COVID-19 1187298 Sources: Blues cancel practices due to ‘multiple’ 1187329 High school football coaches grappling with positive COVID-19 positive tests COVID-19 tests at several programs 1187330 MLB’s first round of coronavirus testing shows low Tampa Bay Lightning positivity rate 1187299 What is the NHL escrow system, and why is it relevant 1187331 At what point do rising coronavirus numbers threaten the right now? return of sports in Florida? 1187300 What NFL, NHL, MLB and NCAA can learn from auto 1187332 Athletics: World Athletics puts Russians' return on hold racing without fans 1187333 'There’s a Lot of Pain and Uncertainty': The Gloomy 1187301 Do athletes believe playing in empty venues will impact Impact of the Pandemic on Sports Broadcasting their performance?

SPORT-SCAN, INC. 941-284-4129 1187278 Calgary Flames

Cast your ballot for FAVE FLAME EVER of the 2010s

POSTMEDIA NETWORK

Published:July 3, 2020

Updated:July 3, 2020 11:49 AM MDT

In light of last week’s news celebrating Jarome Iginla’s forthcoming induction into the Hockey Hall of Fame, we here at Postmedia want to honour the superstar and the Calgary Flames in our own way.

In particular, we felt it would be fun to find out which of the Flames is the all-time favourite among the city’s fervent fans by creating an interactive online poll.

Is it Iggy?

How about lovable Lanny?

And don’t forget about Theo.

MacInnis with that boomer?

Or current hot-shot Johnny Hockey?

There’s Capt. Gio, too.

We’ve carefully created a March Madness-esque bracket of 64 Flames faves dating back through history.

Each quarter of the bracket will consist of 16 names you’ll know and remember from a particular decade. From there, we’ll move on to Round 2, featuring the eight winners of Round 1, and so on … until we’ve got one favourite from each decade competing in the final four of our FAVOURITE FLAME EVER battle.

We began by breaking out the 1980s last week.

And then we moved on to the 1990s on Monday.

Then we broke out the 2000s.

And, finally, the bracket for the 2010s is now in your hands.

We’ll keep the polls open for the next seven days, so get in on it.

Our panel set down a few parameters in forming the brackets — with the most important being that a player would be slotted into the decade during which he played the most games with the Flames.

We also decided that no matter his popularity, he had to play more than just a few regular-season games and the playoffs here in Calgary (sorry, Ville Nieminen and Mike Commodore).

There are a few of your faves missing, no doubt.

Then we meticulously ranked the 16 players of each decade.

But in the grand spirit of playoff hockey, we’re hoping for an upset or two along the way.

So let’s keep at it …

Cast your ballot below, as we try to track just who is the most favourite Flames star of all.

Iggy just got the nod from hockey gurus to head to the hallowed hall of fame.

It’s your turn to vote now, Calgary. (Don’t forget to click the “submit” button at the bottom to register your votes.)

Calgary Sun: LOADED: 07.04.2020 1187279 Chicago Blackhawks against the Lightning — all in the third period — that rallied the Hawks to a 5-2 win.

Dominik Kubalik handles the puck against the Devils on Dec. 23, 2019, at The Chicago Blackhawks face the Edmonton Oilers in the NHL play-in the United Center. round. Here are 10 factors that could tip the scales in their playoff series. Yes, the 24-year-old Kubalik is a rookie, but he has a wealth of international experience, including more than 200 games between the Czech, and Champions leagues and the IIHF World By PHIL THOMPSON Championship.

JUL 03, 2020 AT 8:00 AM That’s not to say Kubalik didn’t have his lulls. Coach Jeremy Colliton sat him on more than one occasion when his play “dropped off a little bit.”

Kubalik had one assist and came up empty on nine shots in three With a plus-130 line at several sports books, the Chicago Blackhawks meetings with the Oilers. aren’t the worst bet to advance past the NHL play-in round. That would Oilers: Kailer Yamamoto is the Oilers’ not-so-secret weapon. be the Montreal Canadiens, a fellow 12th seed, at plus-170. Before his arrival, coach Dave Tippett couldn’t settle on a consistent If the league’s return-to-play plan goes on without a hitch — namely, a lineup. But once Yamamoto was placed on a line with Leon Draisaitl, it surge in coronavirus cases among players or a hub city — the fifth- seemed like the pieces fell in place for all of the lines. seeded Edmonton Oilers will be heavy favorites (minus-150), but they won’t take the Hawks lightly. The Hawks couldn’t handle the pairing during a 5-3 road loss in February, when Yamamoto scored two goals and Draisaitl had a goal Remember that it was out of concern about facing stars such as the and three assists. Connor McDavid missed that game because of a left Hawks’ Patrick Kane and Canadiens goalie Carey Price that players and quadriceps injury. team executives nixed the idea of a three-game series in favor of a five- game format, according to “Hockey Night in Canada” analyst Elliotte “He’s so feisty, so quick on pucks. He steals so many pucks from players Friedman. and creates turnovers,” Draisaitl told the Edmonton Sun about Yamamoto. “It really is contagious for our group.” Friedman said late last month, before the league and union settled on a playoff plan, “I did hear the Western teams, and now I hear that it’s going 3. Could this be a case of experience over youth? to be Edmonton, they were like, ‘Two out of three with Patrick Kane? I mean, c’mon.’ ” Blackhawks: It’s not simply resting on the laurels of past championships to say the Hawks have the edge in playoff experience, their most recent Experience and three Stanley Cup titles must count for something, if not appearance being a first-round loss to the Predators in 2017. betting odds. As some hockey pundits have alluded to, 12th seed or not, few teams Here are 10 potential factors in the Blackhawks-Oilers series and how wanted to face the veteran Hawks on a few months rest. If the Hawks get they apply to each team. some players back from injury, such as Calvin de Haan and Andrew Shaw, they’ll have a roster with 667 games of postseason experience 1. It’s Leon Draisaitl and Connor McDavid versus Patrick Kane and (525 among core players who have been with the Hawks three or more Jonathan Toews — but for which lines? seasons). The Oilers have 455 games of playoff experience. Blackhawks: As strong as the Oilers forwards are, they have reason to Hawks goalie Corey Crawford has played 87 postseason games, worry about Patrick Kane. He had two goals and two assists in three compared with 24 for Mike Smith, the only Oilers with meetings this season and has put up at least three points in three games postseason work. against the Oilers since 2015-16. Oilers: James Neal, whom the Oilers acquired via trade in July, had a The Kane-Dominik-Kubalik-Jonathan Toews line produced the most career-high 11 points in the postseason for the Vegas Golden Knights in goals (15) for the Hawks this season, followed by the Kane-Alex 2018 and recorded 19 goals and 12 assists for the Oilers this season. He DeBrincat-Dylan Strome combination (11), according to Left Wing Lock. has 104 playoff games under his belt, by far the most on the Oilers Kane was 12th in the league with 33 goals and eighth with 84 points. roster. He’s a bottom-six threat who shouldn’t be underestimated. In the last meeting with the Oilers, a 4-3 Hawks win on March 5 at the Like the Hawks, the Oilers capped the 2016-17 season with a playoff United Center, Kane and Toews scored a goal apiece and DeBrincat berth, but they advanced to the second round, taking the Ducks to seven scored twice. After the game, Kane talked about the Hawks’ playoff games. They still have nine players from that series, including Leon hopes despite then-long odds. Draisaitl, Connor McDavid, Ryan Nugent-Hopkins, Oscar Klefbom and “Yeah, absolutely. It’s fun,” he said. “These are big games for us. … Adam Larsson. Obviously, they are a team with a lot of talent and a lot of skill and they The Hawks (28.1) and Oilers (28) are nearly identical in average age, can capitalize and create offense pretty quickly, which they did. though there’s a wide gulf between the Hawks’ key players — the over- “We held down the fort at the end and did a good job. It feels good to get 30 crowd such as Patrick Kane, Jonathan Toews, Corey Crawford and the two points and move on and keep this thing rolling.” Duncan Keith and younger contributors such as Dominik Kubalik, Alex DeBrincat and Adam Boqvist, all younger than 25. Oilers: Forwards accounted for 90.1% of the Oilers’ goals this season (fourth in the league), 73% of their assists (third) and 79.3% of their Several of the Oilers’ core players — including Draisaitl, McDavid, points (first). Nugent-Hopkins, Klefbom, Darnell Nurse and Matt Benning — are between 23 and 26. So the Hawks just have to stop their forwards, right? Easier said than done. That group racked up 201 goals — only three teams’ forwards 4. The power play could be a problem for the Blackhawks. groups produced more. Blackhawks: At one time fielding the NHL’s worst power play, the Hawks Leon Draisaitl won the Art Ross Trophy by leading the league with 110 improved marginally to rank 28th by season’s end at 15.2%. However, points (43 goals, 67 assists), and teammate Connor McDavid was the the Hawks (217) had 17 more power-play opportunities than the Oilers, runner-up with 97 points (34, 63). Draisaitl had a league-high 33 so if they can get that unit corrected, it becomes less of a disadvantage. multipoint games. Alex DeBrincat led the Hawks with 10 power-play goals, tied for 18th in 2. Each team has an ‘X’ factor: Dominik Kubalik and Kailer Yamamoto. the league; he tied for 10th the previous season with 13 goals. Despite the Hawks ranking 10th in total time with a man advantage (363 minutes, Blackhawks: Dominik Kubalik, who led NHL rookies with 30 goals, 30 seconds), they took only the 16th-most shots (312) and were 23rd in showed in January how lethal he can be when he gets on a hot streak. goals (33).

He started the month with a three-assist game, then rattled off 10 goals Kirby Dach’s promotion to the top unit in place of Dylan Strome helped. and an assist over the next eight games. He added a hat trick Feb. 27 The bigger-bodied Dach had about 33 minutes with DeBrincat and Jonathan Toews and produced a Corsi For of 91.7% and a high-danger- Oilers: Edmonton has allowed 32 shots per game, 12th in the league. Its goals-for percentage of 92.9%; with Strome, the DeBrincat-Toews unit 619 high-danger chances against ranks 11th. had 84.2% and 50% marks, respectively, according to Natural Stat Trick. 7. Can Corey Crawford hold up? Who starts in goal for the Oilers? Before the last game of the season, a 6-2 win against the Sharks that included two power-play goals, Patrick Kane said: “It’s disappointing that Blackhawks: Corey Crawford had a 2.77 goals-against average this we don’t have a good power play. I don’t see why we shouldn’t. You look season and a .917 save percentage, which ranked 21st. Against the at the last few games, I mean, (the game against) St. Louis wasn’t very Oilers, he had a 2.01 GAA and .923 save percentage. good (0-for-4 on power plays), but the games before that, I thought we The 35-year-old will have to handle the load without Robin Lehner, who were moving around pretty good.” was traded to the Golden Knights on Feb. 24.

The Hawks totaled 25 minutes on the plus side of time (11th in Crawford faced about 32 shots per game with a .915 save percentage the league), while the Oilers had a minus-26 differential (24th). when he was splitting time with Lehner, then about 33 per game with a Oilers: The Oilers’ 29.5% power-play success rate led the league. Leon .921 save percentage in eight games without Lehner. Draisaitl was second in power-play goals with 16, and James Neal tied The Hawks have Malcolm Subban and Collin Delia as likely backups, but for sixth with 12. they lack experience. Kevin Lankinen had shoulder surgery in March.

“We’ve had that same power play for probably two years now, and that Oilers: Whom do the Oilers trust: The 38-year-old veteran, Mike Smith, helps a lot,” McDavid told the CBC. “We’ve had a lot of success on who’s playoff-tested, or Mikko Koskinen, 31, who at first blush appears to specialty teams, and we’ll probably need to be a little bit better five-on- be the better goalie but has struggled with consistency? They split games five.” fairly evenly.

While Neal scored twice as many power-play goals as Alex Chiasson’s Smith had a 2.95 GAA and .902 save percentage (3.56 and .906 against six, Chiasson arguably made the overall unit better. With Chiasson, the the Hawks). Koskinen was limited to mop-up duty against the Hawks on Oilers had an expected goals-for percentage of 89.8% in about 101 March 5 after Smith gave up four goals. minutes with McDavid and Leon Draisaitl, according to Natural Stat Trick. Neal, McDavid and Draisaitl had a 72%. mark Here’s what’s more telling: In goals-against percentage, in which 100 represents the league average and a number lower than that is better, Oscar Klefbom led Oilers defensemen with 16 power-play assists, Smith is at 108 and Koskinen 91. reflecting the team’s focus on being more efficient by setting up shots. If you look at goals saved above average, the difference is even more 5. As good as the Blackhawks penalty kill is, the Oilers are better. stark: 9.25 for Koskinen and minus-7.71 for Smith.

Blackhawks: Give the Hawks credit. They set out to improve on last 8. The story of the defensive zone could hinge on health. season’s 72.7% kill rate — the worst in 30 years — and they did it. If at least one thing went right in 2019-20, it was the ninth-ranked penalty kill Blackhawks: Losing defensemen Calvin de Haan (shoulder) and Brent (82.1%). Seabrook (hip) dealt the Hawks a blow, but there’s a chance they could get de Haan back. Ryan Carpenter jump-started this unit, trailing only Duncan Keith in short- handed time on ice with 166 minutes, 6 seconds. Connor Murphy and In late May, de Haan retweeted video of himself practicing at Minto David Kampf contributed too. And Calvin de Haan, whose season was Skating Centre in Ottawa. cut short by a shoulder injury, averaged the third-most ice time (2:41). De Haan’s return would help make up for the loss of Erik Gustafsson (via Jonathan Toews is still a wiz at the faceoff, winning 56% in short-handed trade) and shore up a defense led by Duncan Keith, Connor Murphy, situations. Slater Koekkoek and Olli Maatta.

Oilers: Oscar Klefbom contributes everywhere for the Oilers, including Adam Boqvist missed the last game of the regular season with a leading them in average short-handed ice time (2:29). concussion.

Riley Sheahan isn’t far behind and does the heavy lifting on faceoffs, Oilers: Oscar Klefbom, Kris Russell and Adam Larsson are among the though his 41% success rate on the penalty kill pales next to his 51% defensemen who recovered from injuries that landed them on IR at overall mark, second-best on the team (minimum 100 faceoffs). various points in the season. Klefbom returned in early March.

“I’ve really been working on (draws) in practice and mentally tried to bear Mike Green was also on track to return from a sprained MCL before what down more,” Sheahan told the Edmonton Sun in February. “It’s so would have been the end of the regular season before the coronavirus important on the penalty kill and D-zone. Just tried to do a little more shutdown. He was acquired from the at the trade homework.” deadline but has played only two games for the Oilers. One of Green’s greatest assets is as a power-play quarterback. When the Hawks get a man advantage, we’ll see how Sheahan holds up against Toews, who leads the league in power-play faceoff wins with 176 9. Who’s going to be on the taxi squads? (out of 275, a 64% success rate). Blackhawks: The prevailing wisdom is that the NHL will allow expanded 6. If the Blackhawks have any shot, they have to cut down on shots. rosters for the playoffs that include 28 skaters and unlimited goalies.

Blackhawks: By some fluke, the Hawks actually have a better record Defensive prospect Ian Mitchell would be a big boost, but the NHL is when they’re outshot by their opponent (21-17-7) than when they unlikely to allow players signed to 2020-21 contracts to play in the 2019- outshoot the other team (11-12-0), but that’s no way to live. The Hawks 20 postseason, for the sake of the playoffs’ integrity. Collin Delia is a sure gave up the most shots per game in the league with 35.1. They gave up bet to help back up goalie Corey Crawford. the second-most high-danger scoring chances (728) behind only the Part of the Hawks’ calculus depends on the injury status of players such Winnipeg Jets. as Calvin de Haan, Adam Boqvist and Andrew Shaw. Some likely Coach Jeremy Colliton and Hawks players have cited a number of candidates for defensive help include former call-ups Lucas Carlsson, reasons, including forwards failing to backcheck or losing gap control, Nicolas Beaudin and Dennis Gilbert. Forwards who saw at least a little losing battles for loose pucks and being careless and turning over the action this season include Dylan Sikura, Brandon Hagel and John puck in their own end. Quenneville.

But the defensive end seemed to be clicking in a 4-3 win against the Oilers: Like the Hawks, the Oilers have to take injuries into consideration. Oilers on March 5, the last time the Hawks were tasked with slowing General manager Ken Holland expects winger Joakim Nygard and Connor McDavid. defenseman Mike Green to be healthy and ready to play whenever the postseason starts. “The work ethic from our forwards was excellent,” Colliton said at the time. “We were getting above the puck consistently, our gap was good. Wingers Josh Currie and Tyler Benson and defenseman Evan Bouchard He’s a great player and (Leon) Draisaitl’s a great player, but when you’ve were the top three point producers for the AHL Bakersfield Condors. got to come through five guys, it makes it easier to defend.” William Lagesson, Logan Day and Caleb Jones are the likely candidates to provide defensive depth.

10. It’s a chance for the coaches to prove themselves.

Blackhawks: How lucky is second-year coach Jeremy Colliton? The de facto offseason kicked off with the firing of team President John McDonough and the prospect of sweeping organizational changes by the Wirtz family. Colliton’s Hawks finished in last place in the Central Division, but by a twist of fate, the league and players union blessed the Hawks with a 24-team playoff format that inserted them as the 12th and last seed in the Western Conference.

It amounts to another audition for Colliton, who has struggled to draw consistency out of a roster that’s split between aging and youthful players and has looked awful at times on defense and regressed on the power play.

Blackhawks coach Jeremy Colliton yells to his players during a game against the Islanders on Dec. 27, 2019, at the United Center.

When the Hawks were long shots to make the playoffs at the trade deadline, general manager Stan Bowman lauded how Colliton was handling the team’s dual mission of developing young players and pursuing the playoffs, however faint the hopes.

“I think he’s done a very good job of constructively working with them, guiding them to be better.” Bowman said then. “It’s not playing with no consequences.”

Oilers: The Hawks could be a blessing or a curse for coach Dave Tippett.

Ask Lightning coach John Cooper, who got swept as the No. 1 seed in a chalk first-round matchup against the Blue Jackets last year, how quickly public opinion about your job can turn. However, general manager Dave Holland hired Tippett with a long-term plan in mind.

“The best chance for success is in a stable environment,” Holland said at Tippett’s introduction in May 2019. “You’ve got to peck away. It’s a move at a time. I’m big on experience. There’s always choppy waters and you have to be steady on the rudder. It was important to have someone behind the bench who had been through the wars.”

Tippett has been through the wars in his 15 years as a head coach. He has compiled a 33-41 (.446) playoff record and reached the conference finals with the Coyotes (2012) and Stars (2008).

Chicago Tribune LOADED: 07.04.2020 1187280 Chicago Blackhawks

Why the Stanley Cup was late to Blackhawks' 2015 Game 6 win over Lightning

By Scott King July 03, 2020 11:00 AM

Out of tradition and superstition, the Stanley Cup is never in the building until after puck drop during a Stanley Cup Final game in which it could be won, unless it's a Game 7 when both teams have a shot.

On June 15 in 2015, when the Blackhawks won their sixth Stanley Cup in franchise history, old Stanley was a little late to his own party at the United Center.

As the Keeper of the Cup Philip Pritchard tells host Pat Boyle on the latest Blackhawks Talk Podcast, fans were already celebrating the Hawks Cup-clinching win over the Lightning outside the UC as the trophy was pulling in.

Broadcasters 'Doc' Emrick and Eddie Olczyk were filling time waiting for the Cup to arrive, which was still absent during the handshake line.

According to Pritchard, the Cup left the hotel around puck drop and it was the stormy weather that made the Keeper and the best trophy in sports tardy for the celebration.

Click to download the MyTeams App for the latest Blackhawks news and analysis.

"People that weren't (at the game yet) were in traffic and just leaving their cars and walking and the roads were flooded, the highways were flooded, the bypass was like a lake. And as we were coming out towards the arena, we realized then that we were going to need some help, not just Mother Nature help, but we're going to need security help with it as well," Pritchard said.

"As we pulled into the arena — obviously the game had finished and the Blackhawks won — the home team's going nuts, the hometown fans are going crazy. So we presented (the ) to Duncan Keith and then we brought the Stanley Cup out and I remember on the ice talking to Jonathan Toews and he said, 'That was so cool that it took so long and the fans were loving it.' And I was telling him what went on and he goes, 'Really? I just thought it was part of the effect.'"

Comcast SportsNet.com LOADED: 07.04.2020 1187281 Columbus Blue Jackets "I think that from the league’s standpoint, it’s strictly the economics. But from the players’ standpoint? They want to win. They want to play. They want to play the game and they want to win."

Circumstances won’t diminish Stanley Cup It is Curran’s view that the economic benefits are marginal for players in this return, in which teams and players will split the playoff revenue on a 50/50 basis.

Brian Hedger "The reality is, every guy on that team that makes the playoffs is making the same dollar. Contracts don’t apply in the playoffs," he said. "There’s Jul 3, 2020 at 6:00 AM no guy making more on the team than any other, so they’re playing for a reason. They’re playing to win the Cup."

Assuming the NHL can pull off a plan to finish the paused 2019-20 It doesn’t matter what you call it, either. season and award the Stanley Cup amid an ongoing pandemic, it’s a The final team standing this season will be awarded the same Stanley distinction that will live forever. Cup given to previous teams, and their names will be etched into it just The winners may become known as "COVID Cup" champions, as well as the same. That includes the 1995 New Jersey Devils and the 2013 Stanley Cup champs, after enduring a 24-team return format that sprung Chicago Blackhawks, each of whom captured the Stanley Cup after only to life because of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. a 48-game regular season brought about by lockouts.

The moniker stems largely from the new tournament format, which Those etchings are all that players who take part in this year’s includes two NHL "hub" locations — reportedly Edmonton in the Western tournament will care about. Conference and Toronto in the East — plus a qualifying round to "Any year you play, you want a chance to win the Stanley Cup," said determine the standard field of 16 teams. Foligno, who helped the Blue Jackets overcome a mountain of injuries The winner will also receive a big, fat asterisk along with the Stanley Cup just to be included in the 24-team field. "For me, it’s another opportunity. from NHL commissioner Gary Bettman, who likely will hand it over inside They don’t come around very often. an arena devoid of fans. "When you get a chance to go to the dance, you want to make the most NHL players, however, aren’t thrilled with COVID hijacking the name of of it. If there is a reasonable and safe way to play the game, then why the oldest trophy awarded in North American sports. wouldn’t you want an opportunity to chase the ultimate dream?"

"I hear a lot of things about there’s an asterisk on this season and all that. Asterisk or not. I have a hard time with that one," Blue Jackets captain Nick Foligno said Columbus Dispatch LOADED: 07.04.2020 in late May, when the league officially unveiled its return-to-play format.

"A Stanley Cup championship is a Stanley Cup championship in my eyes, and nobody can take that away from you. You still have to go through four rounds to win."

Actually, it would be five rounds for teams such as the Blue Jackets, who must first defeat the in a five-game series just to qualify for the official Stanley Cup playoffs that will be conducted, as usual, among 16 teams, eight in each conference.

From that perspective, the Cup might be even harder to win than usual — and that’s not even factoring in how COVID-19 might impact the outcome.

What if there’s an outbreak in one or both of the "bubble" hubs? What if it costs a team thought to be a favorite a few star players and both goalies? What if a coach or coaches get infected? What if an infected player or coach becomes seriously ill?

There is a lot more to digest with this season’s Cup chase than just a new nickname.

"It’ll be a great story to tell one day," said Foligno, a 13-year NHL veteran who doesn’t want to lose a single opportunity to win hockey’s ultimate prize. "If we can’t get it done the right way, I think there are smart enough people (running the league) to know when you have to cut your losses and try again for the fall. If there is a chance to play and it’s safe and it makes sense, that’s our job as players."

It’s the job of the league and the NHL Players’ Association to hammer out a final plan and protocols to make competition as safe as possible for everyone involved. That includes giving players the option of not participating, which reportedly will be part of the league’s final return plan, similar to what Major League Baseball and the NBA has granted its players.

A handful of NHL players might opt out, but hockey players have a long tradition of showing "toughness" in the face of injuries. Most likely will accept the risks and chase the Stanley Cup, and those who win aren’t going to accept it conditionally or bow to the growing skepticism about the pandemic’s impact on the legitimacy of the tournament.

Whoever earns the Stanley Cup will hoist it above their heads and parade it around the rink, even if there’s not a soul in the stands to see it.

"People are asking, ‘Why are these guys doing this? Why are we having this?’ " said Rick Curran, a veteran player agent. "Well, I think it’s pretty simple. 1187282 Florida Panthers good thing coming. We were on the outside (of the playoff picture), but we kind of liked where we were at.

It’s tough. You want to know one way or the other, are we going to be Brian Boyle on being locked down in South Florida, history with Isles and involved in this or not? Once they did, it was exciting. And then from more there, that’s when I started paying a little more attention. Also, the fact is, what else was I going to do? You work out for an hour and a half, play with the kids and I’m going to look at my phone, find out what information I could get. By Arthur Staple Jul 3, 2020 It all seemed kind of far away. With what was going on in the world, in the

country, other stuff seemed more important. Just making sure the family Florida Panthers center Brian Boyle is on his sixth team in seven years, was staying safe, people trying to look at facts or political alignment in but with his club included in the 24-team tournament that’s slated to terms of what this whole pandemic was bringing. I don’t care what you begin next month, he’s in the postseason for the 10th consecutive year. think — nobody wants to get this thing, even if it doesn’t affect you, it’s The 35-year-old center was this week’s guest on the “No Sleep Til what you could do to other people. I paid a lot of attention to that. Belmont” podcast to discuss a variety of topics, including his lockdown When they decided it was 24 teams, might be a hub city, Gary (Bettman) experience in South Florida, his long history with the Islanders and his was on TV and it was really interesting. It was exciting because, again, own health concerns in returning to play — Boyle was diagnosed with I’m 35 and I love to do this. This is a chance to continue to do this. chronic myeloid leukemia in 2017. On his long history with the Islanders On the lockdown and getting back on the ice last month No matter where any of the teams I’ve been on or where the Islanders Anyone who’s got children, small children in school, you know you’ve had are, there was a certain brand of hockey they played, especially when I to do the teacher thing and without needing to go to work, stuck at home was in New York, certainly in Jersey. In Tampa, it’s those playoff games — it’s basically like that. I’ve got a 3- and 5-year old who have a ton of and that’s when their identity came out the most. I do think about those energy. We’ve been figuring out ways for them to burn off that energy times but also, we’re not going to the Coliseum, I’m not in Madison without putting ourselves in the hospital. Up until recently, not being able Square Garden or The Rock, I’m not at the Barclays in the playoffs, to get back on the ice, it was a challenge, just trying to enjoy that time getting beer poured on my head after an overtime winner. I’m not getting with the kids and now it’s a little more regimented, a little more death threats from their fans because I had a “dirty” hit. structured. For me anyways — my wife’s ready to throw me off the balcony. Those are memories that are just the passion the playoffs bring out. We can only hope it remains. Hopefully, everybody’s tuned in. I know that fan With the news this last week, it’s been a little more exciting so we can base will be. We’re trying to grow our fan base and the way to do that is have something to look forward to. by winning. It’s going to be exciting, it’s going to be different because it’s On how he’s feeling after all this time off not at any of those places. It’s at the neutral site. But in terms of a club, it’s much different now in terms of what they have, last year they were I look back at last year on this day and there were a number of things we impressive. They’re really well-coached. That identity they had when they could’ve done. Then I didn’t sign until October. I was thinking about that were really playing well, that’s what I remember. today. And it amplifies in the playoffs. You go until you can’t anymore, as hard Our first game back after the All-Star break, I tweaked something and it as you can. That’s what happens when it’s win or go home. It’s the got worse and worse. I was about to come back and then the pandemic hardest hockey, but it’s the most fun and rewarding. hit. So I already had my break. I’m ready to go. I’m excited, my body’s back, I feel good, I had plenty of time, more than I would have liked. I’m When I got on the ice, I hadn’t been playing a ton that game, but I felt lucky the house I’m renting down here has a gym; I’ve been able to kill pretty good. We tied it late and it was overtime. I had to do something. I some time in there. Now that I’m back on the ice, I feel like I’ve waited just remember the play, it was neutral zone and I went a little more long enough. It doesn’t matter what month it is, what time of year it is. aggressively than normal. We were sort of trapping down a little bit, trying to stop plays at the red line and I decided I was just going to go hard at There’s obviously guys who had weddings planned, births. The way I the D man. He made a pass, and I just kind of finished the hit. look at it is I’ve had enough time off, I love to do this and to have the opportunity to jump right into a win-or-go-home situation, which is the I didn’t hit him high. There’s one angle where it looks like I did, a little bit most fun hockey to play. It’s just kind of unique. If it works out the way we of a head snap on his part. I’ve known Thomas (Hickey) since he got hope it will, it should be really exciting. drafted to L.A. Great guy, I respect him a lot. From that angle, it could have been a call, where the ref was standing. But I think he knew Our team feels the same way — we live in Florida, it’s warm all the time everything was down on me. I didn’t actually think I hit him that hard. here, so we’re used to it. Don’t know if I got him in a spot that he wasn’t expecting. I guess it was kind of out of character for me to extend out that far. On the Panthers’ season so far When we got the puck back, I tried to make a play to (Ryan) Callahan, We’d been talking for a couple weeks (before I signed), but with the cap, who was covered by a back-checker and fortunate for us it went to Victor there were a couple of things that needed to be done if I was going to be (Hedman). I just skated to the post thinking if he hits the net, it could able to sign. I was holding out hope it was going to be here so I waited, come to me. It comes off the backboard, and it was kind of bouncing. but I also was trying to get myself through a training camp without being One of the more skilled plays I’ve ever made was stopping that puck at training camp. I did everything I could to get in as good a shape as I because that ice can be a little finicky there at the Barclays Center. could, and I thought I did a pretty good job. I got it to settle down and then after I scored, I thought somebody was I had a practice, a morning skate and I played. Two guys were injured the going to come after me. The game was over. I was right and I was wrong night before, so I played quite a bit more than I thought I would. The first because I did a little spin and there was a guy coming full speed at me, seven to eight games I felt really, really good. Then the adrenaline wears but it was Callahan. He jumped on me. I had to hold him in the air. Never off a bit, then I found my game again and I felt good. scored an overtime playoff goal before, something I’ll never forget. Then I As a team, we were scoring a ton of goals early, then we had to find our got a nice shower, tried to get off the ice before anything else was thrown identity in our own end, and right before the break we were on a tear, at me and get down the tunnel. doing great, then after the break, it was the opposite. We had kind of a We’ll say Matt brought up (2016) a couple times. He was so helpful to me reset meeting and we found that game again, playing some low-scoring in Toronto, gave me some rides. I’d never been traded midseason games and defending well. before, so he was a huge help. After the first day of being nice to me, With the firepower we have, the young guys we have — (Aleksander) showing me the ropes, he made sure to tell me how he felt about the Barkov, (Jonathan) Huberdeau, (Evgenii) Dadonov, (Mike) Hoffman — year before. We had a little bit of an argument. we can score goals. (Aaron) Ekblad is getting better every year. Bob I respected that (Islanders) team so much. Especially that line with him, (Sergei Bobrovsky) was really appreciative of how we reorganized in our (Casey) Cizikas and (Cal) Clutterbuck, they had such a huge impact on own end. His game was starting to take off. I thought we had a pretty that team and in games. The next year we went into Washington with the Leafs and we had conversations, me and Matty and Kasperi Kapanen. We wanted to be that line, be that difference-maker. It was a lot of fun, those are good memories too.

On finding a better defensive identity going into the restart

There’s so much to defending. First and foremost, you’ve got to have that commitment to it. You have to be able to communicate and be on the same page. If you’re waiting for somebody to do something or you’re not on the same page. It doesn’t matter how hard you work, you’ll just be running around like chickens with their heads cut off. Everybody has to be focused in the video sessions, asking the right questions. What happens if this, if that, competing.

You have breakdowns, but those breakdowns need to be predictable for our goalie. Six guys in your own end, everybody has to know where things are going and how you’re supposed to defend. That takes commitment on and off the ice, game days and practice days. We learned that but with this layoff, we have to open the books again and get back to work.

Everybody’s healthy, so you’re going to have extra guys. Everyone’s going to want to get in there and contribute. I think that’s going to be a huge part of it. You want to be trusted by your teammates and coaching staff because every team I’ve been on that’s had good runs, there’s definitely talent but — when I was in New York and we went to the Final, our leading scorer had 60 points in 82 games. But we defended, we had contributions from a lot of guys and we had an identity that everybody played to. It takes work. We have to be able to do that.

That’s what most teams are going to have to understand. We need to be as much of a finished product as we can be. There’s no time for rust, no exhibition season, no October to figure out your identity. You have to be ready to go from jump street.

On his own health and any concerns returning

I’ve had a few conversations, just because our understanding of this thing (the coronavirus) has changed. Everybody was bleaching everything at first and now we learn different things about the virus, how it affects different people, ones with underlying issues. As far as I am told and what I understand – first is how I feel, and I feel totally normal. I feel great. I’m still tested every three months or so, just got them back maybe a week ago, still at complete zeroes across the board, which is great news.

So I’m as healthy as anyone my age and in terms of what we do, how we have to take care of our bodies to do what we do, it’s no more risk than anybody else. That said, we’re putting a lot of faith and trust in the epidemiologists that are heading this thing up. And it’s a well-planned thing when you think of not just us but coaches, training staff, everyone who has to play a part in making this thing go. The players are one thing, but there’s a lot of people involved.

We don’t want anything bad to happen. That’s a real thought, a real concern for players. So we’re going to do everything we can. What I can control is staying in shape, being ready physically and getting excited. But if it doesn’t work, it doesn’t work. I don’t think anybody can argue, “Hey, let’s do it anyway.” If the risks outweigh the rewards, then that’s that. I’m healthy, I’m excited, I’ll probably ask again before we fully go through with this. But I feel I’m in a good spot.

The Athletic LOADED: 07.04.2020 1187283 Los Angeles Kings “If the Kings share the same view as I do, well, who would be the best person to learn to be the next Kopitar other than by learning from the current Kopitar?” Button said.

Byfield? Stutzle? Drysdale? Examining the Kings’ best draft options at “Let’s say they go to Tim Stutzle who is a magnificent creative offensive No. 2 wizard, like Patrick Kane. They’ve drafted (Rasmus) Kupari, (Gabriel) Vilardi and (Alex) Turcotte – all centers. Tim has been a center up until this year and he played left wing.

By Lisa Dillman “It doesn’t matter where Tim plays. He can play left wing. If you want to move him back up to center, you have that option. But when you can add Jul 3, 2020 that type of elite talent to a group where they also have (Arthur) Kaliyev, (Samuel) Fagemo, Turcotte, and Vilardi, you’ve taken some steps.

Sure, there have been difficult decisions, even controversial ones, made “Then I go to Drysdale. I see him as a complete No. 1 defenseman. Who at the draft table since Mark Yannetti joined the Kings during the 2006-07 better to learn under than another elite defenseman, Drew Doughty?” season and eventually became their director of amateur scouting in June I asked Yannetti if one option was more about the present and the other of 2007. more about the future. Or was that overly simplistic? But it looks like 2020 will stand alone. “It’s only simplistic if you think one of them is going to be definitely better The Kings jumped from No. 4 to No. 2 in the NHL’s draft lottery a week than the other,” he said. “I don’t mean a little bit better. A full level ceiling ago and will be picking second in the draft for the fourth time in franchise better. If one is going to be slightly better, an apple versus an orange. It history. In our conversation the day after the lottery, Yannetti said that he doesn’t mean one is better than the other. Then you can say, ‘This guy thought their decision who to take at No. 2 would likely come down to two can help us earlier’ and there’s not much of a tradeoff.” players. Button thought Stutzle could help the Kings most immediately. (This is when a most futile attempt is made to get the names. Hint: It “I don’t think Byfield is ready,” he said. “I don’t think Drysdale is ready. never works) Right away, I think those two players need another year before coming to “This will be the hardest pick,” Yannetti said. “I anticipate this will be the the NHL. Stutzle has already played in Germany in the pro league and hardest decision as a staff we’ve ever had to make. Other teams might he’s been phenomenal. There’s a difference between playing and not have the same two we have. They’re so close as of right now. It’ll be contributing. Jack Hughes and Kaapo Kakko and Kirby Dach didn’t a really tough decision.” contribute. They played in the NHL in a development scenario, and I don’t think the NHL is about development. Yannetti had a refreshing description of how he felt about The Decision. “I think you fail players by putting them in that situation. When I look at “I’m healthily stressed about it,” he said. “It’s a good kind of energy and this year I see Lafreniere and Marco Rossi as being more than capable anxiety. It’s not a bad kind. Stressful but fun exercise.” of coming in and contributing. I think Stutzle has that capability. I don’t think Drysdale and Byfield are ready or anywhere near ready.” With nearly everything in flux, there has not been a date announced for the NHL Draft. After all, a second lottery phase is required because a With the Kings in the early stages of their rebuild, they are deep in placeholder team won the Friday’s lottery, leaving the fortunes of development mode with their prospects. With the draft looking like it consensus No. 1 pick Alexis Lafreniere in limbo. This phase will involve might be in October, the Kings scouts could get additional live looks at the eight losing teams in the qualifying rounds of the playoffs. the 2020 draft-eligible players, depending upon when the various junior leagues start in North American and Europe. All this means that Yannetti and his staff will have plenty of time to weigh the pros and cons of the two players they have targeted, sifting through “We have all the info in front of us,” Yannetti said. “That being said, more the volumes of material and video. information to me is always better than less information. If you have a showcase where they’re playing or a league that starts early or whatnot, “With the two guys, we can get deeper into the analytics than we can with it would be foolish not to glean that information. So if Player A is playing five, six or seven players,” he said. “I’m trying not to be vague but there in a tournament or a camp or whatever and his season starts earlier, are certain things you can’t say. Scouting, video work, the subjective you’d take advantage of watching. We’ve seen it. Guys make a big leap analysis, the head-to-head matchups. in development between the time they’re 16 and 17, and 17 and 18, and “We’re right in the middle of something with later-round guys. Don’t want 18 and 19. to lose the momentum. Even though I’ve gotten about five phone calls “If you think about it, if you could even do the draft one year later, think from our guys saying: ‘Can we look at Player A or Player B?’ I’m like about how much can change?” guys, ‘Relax.’ We have 10 days worth of work. It might not be that much — it might be seven days. The Athletic LOADED: 07.04.2020 “Then we have a mini-break so we can re-charge and then it’s on to the March Madness — or whatever you want to call it — with the two players who have separated themselves.”

There is a consensus at The Athletic about No. 2 — Quinton Byfield of Sudbury. Prospect writers Corey Pronman and Scott Wheeler have the Wolves center ranked No. 2. Pronman ranked left wing Tim Stutzle of Adler Mannheim (DEL) third, while Wheeler has him at No. 7.

TSN’s director of scouting and former NHL GM Craig Button’s mock draft on June 26 had Byfield at No. 2, Stutzle third, and defenseman Jamie Drysdale of the Erie Otters fourth.

Of that group, Stutzle is the oldest. He turned 18 on Jan. 15 and Drysdale celebrated his 18th birthday on April 8. Byfield, who is 6-foot-4 and 215 pounds, will turn 18 on Aug. 17.

“The draft always poses some different challenges,” Button said. “For me, the L.A. Kings have zero chance of going wrong.”

Button views it as a decision between three players — Byfield, Stutzle, and Drysdale. He has made comparisons between Byfield and Kings captain Anze Kopitar and did so again in our interview. 1187284 Minnesota Wild Sportswriting 101, and The Athletic’s Dan Hayes and Aaron Gleeman for an hour roundtable on the Twins.

What’s the latest with Kaprizov because Wild fans are freaking out that Q&A: Wild GM Bill Guerin on Kaprizov, goaltending, playing for first pick, he put an Instagram story up that he’s on an airplane today? Is he flying more to the United States?

No, things have progressed really well with Kirill. We’re still moving forward with things. To be honest with you, I didn’t know he was on a By Michael Russo Jul 3, 2020 plane. And I have a call with his agent coming up trying to figure out what the heck’s going on myself (Russo note: Guerin was told Kaprizov was

just flying within Russia). But things are moving in the right direction. But On Thursday, I filled in for Paul Allen (colleague Chad Graff we still need to wait and hear from the league on our situation with him. coincidentally did a feature the same morning on the Vikings play-by-play Things are positive, but I can’t really get into too much detail really what’s man and incredible Canterbury Park track announcer) on his 9-noon going on? show on KFAN and Wild general manager Bill Guerin was one of my Let me ask you this: If the league says to you that in this new collective guests. bargaining agreement that Kirill could sign right now, burn the first year, Guerin is a straight shooter, so after I buttered him up talking about Tiger but he can’t play this summer, which means you’d have to re-sign him as King reenactments and red-carpet dinners he has done with his family a restricted free agent next summer, is that something that you would during the pandemic (oh, and Guerin’s TikTok debut that his daughter, even want to do? Grace, concocted), we got down to business: Kirill Kaprizov. I’ll take everything into consideration. I’m not the type of guy that’s just I’ve only written 97 Kaprizov stories since April, including a colorful profile gonna say yes or no right now. If that situation does come about, I mean, on the Russian star who remains a dream at this point for all (im)patient I’m gonna have to think about it. And I think Kirill would have to think Wild fans. about it. It’s not just something that you just say, “OK, great, pull the trigger on it, let’s go.” No, we’ve got to make sure that we’re doing the As I reported a few nights ago, it’s looking very likely that once the NHL right thing for both sides. And I think the way this has gone the last and NHL Players’ Association unveil a host of return-to-play protocols couple months with him, he’s a very reasonable kid, very level-headed, and an amended collective bargaining agreement, Kaprizov will not be smart. He’s got a good agent. … It’s been really good to work through eligible to debut for the Wild this summer. But, in a twist that naturally this with those guys. So we’re not going to just jump at anything. We still only makes things a little more complicated, as long has nothing has have time. We’ll use the time to just make the best decision that we can. been changed in the CBA language, my sources say there had been a compromise by the NHL and NHLPA. Kirill’s agent has told me he feels this should have been an open-and- shut case from the very beginning. Does it disappoint you that the league Kaprizov would be permitted to sign his two-year deal starting in 2019- has taken such a hardened stance to keep somebody that normally 20, burn off the first year and play Year 2 of his contract during his rookie would be eligible to play for you if you sign him and not let him play year in 2020-21. But, again, he’s not allowed to play. against the Vancouver Canucks and potentially beyond?

So even if Kaprizov is allowed to sign, it’s not a no-brainer that Guerin Well, listen, I’d like this kid in our lineup yesterday. But there are 31 would want to do that, and it’s certainly not a guarantee that Kaprizov teams in this league — soon to be 32. And the league is working on a himself would even want to do that. number of different things to make sure we get back to play and they’re trying to do it fair for everybody. And so I’ve made my case with the From a Wild perspective, sure you get Kaprizov under contract, but all league and they’ve told me where they stand and they’re going to call the that’s doing is costing the organization probably $4 or $5 million because shots and then we just support them on that. Like I said, this is a kid that it would mean Guerin would have to re-sign him to a long-term, lucrative we wanted in our lineup for long before I got here. His day will come second contract after one season as opposed to getting two years out of when he puts on our jersey. It’s just a matter of being patient still and Kaprizov on his entry-level contract worth $925,000 plus potential making the right decisions. performances bonuses (Promise: I’ll explain the bonuses in detail if and when he signs). I’ve said if Islanders GM Lou Lamoriello, who usually gets his way, hasn’t been able to get it done with Ilya Sorokin, nobody can. Let’s say Kaprizov has a tough adjustment in his first NHL season. Now, you’re hurling a bunch of money at him to buy out his unrestricted years Yeah, he’s got a little more weight than I do. that start in 2024 on a wing and prayer that he’ll project into what you think he can be. When you talk and text with Kaprizov, which I just find hysterical, how’s he handling this whole situation? Part of him has to be like, “Are you From Kaprizov’s perspective, signing now and not being able to play kidding me? I’ve waited so long. I want to come, and now the league’s could be taken as a slight for a guy that simply wants to play. He doesn’t not even allowing me in.” want to wait and not play hockey for potentially nine months, so there is a definite chance now that he may opt to re-sign in the KHL for a year. He’s been great. I haven’t talked to him personally for a little while now, Guerin’s goal would be to sign Kaprizov to his two-year deal starting with but every time I have talked to him or texted with him, he’s a very even- the 2020-21 season but work out something with Kaprizov where they keeled kid, very level headed, and it doesn’t really seem to bother him. can loan him to another European team so he could get games in before He understands the situation. And he understands that there are a lot of training camp. hurdles involved in it. You know, it’s just a shame that this whole thing happened because I know for a long time fans have been waiting for him But remember, CSKA Moscow has already said they wouldn’t entertain in Minnesota and to have this whole thing kind of go crazy and really that, and frankly, there’s a question whether other European teams would upset the apple cart, it just puts an unnecessary twist on it. want to sign a player only to lose him a few months into the season. Let me ask you about another Russian prospect, Alex Khovanov. I’ve So, here’s part of my Q&A with Guerin on Kaprizov, prospect Alex talked to his agent and it looks like because we don’t know if the Khovanov, the goaltending situation, acquiring a right-handed center in is going to start, you might loan him to his KHL the future and the wrinkle that if the Wild lose to the Vancouver Canucks team. Is that accurate? in the qualifying round, they’d have a 12.5 percent chance of winning a second draft lottery and getting the first overall pick in the 2020 Draft. Well, no, we’re speaking to them right now. We don’t know if it’s gonna happen or not. Alex is a high priority prospect for us. He’s a very good Here also is my KFAN radio show, which includes Wild goalie and player. His desire is to play as soon as he can. He wants to play NHLPA rep Devan Dubnyk talking about what’s next in the process of professionally. And we’re just trying to do what’s right for the prospect players approving a return to play, The Athletic’s Craig Custance and sitting around from March to maybe December probably isn’t the discussing myriad NHL issues with me, Fox Sports North’s Anthony best thing. So if there’s an opportunity for us to have him playing while LaPanta discussing calling Wild games from a studio later this summer we’re not, then we’ll do it. To be honest with you, we will be treating him and what to expect in the Wild-Canucks series, The Athletic’s Jon kind of like a college prospect: You go and play your season, and if your Krawczynski on the Wolves, the NBA’s return-to-play plans and season ends in March or April, then you can come and join us. It’s really not that unusual. But like I said, this whole situation (with the pandemic) has just thrown everything off. So, for him, we’re just looking at a bunch of different options.

Alexander Khovanov

Your players are rolling back into town for training camp tentatively July 10. What do you think is the biggest thing that’s going to be key to getting these players back into game mentality for a July 26ish flight to the Edmonton hub and game action around August 1?

We’re gonna have to find a way, and I think it’s gonna be an expectation level that we’re going to have to set. You know, expectations from me, from (interim coach) Dean (Evason), and from the players themselves. Like, this is an opportunity. If we’re going in to do this, we’re going in to win. Yeah, it’s going to be a challenge. It’s going to be hard. This is why these players play in the greatest league in the world, and they’re special, not just physically but mentally. We’ve got to all be mentally strong through this and motivate ourselves. Like I said, this will be an opportunity for us to play for the Stanley Cup. And no matter what the situation is, that’s our goal. That’s our job and that’s what we want. We want to bring back a Stanley Cup to the state of Minnesota. If this is the situation that we’re in, well, then let’s just accept it and go.

Evason said, in his opinion, whoever’s on the ice in training camp has a shot to play against Vancouver. And that includes Kaapo Kahkonen. Do you feel that especially with five months off that there’s no way of knowing that Alex Stalock is going to be the same goalie, that there’s no way of knowing if Devan Dubnyk is going to look like he looked? In other words, do you look at this as a three-man race to start Game 1 against Vancouver?

Yes, absolutely. The best goalie is going to play. And we don’t have time to work out the kinks or do this or do that. This is gonna be quick. And these games are going to come fast. And if we’re not prepared or not on top of things, before you know it, we’ll be done. So, we are going to play the best players, the players that give us a chance to win.

But with Kahkonen, does part of you want to see him just to see what you’ve got going into next year? We obviously know how great he was, the AHL Goalie of the Year. But part of you probably has to make a decision on goaltending in the future.

Yeah, but this is not the time for that. We’re going in to win. And we’re going to play the best guy. I know how good Kaapo is. He had a great year. This is a matter of playing the best players at this time to help us win. I wouldn’t do that to the team just to get a look at a guy. This is all about winning right now.

Question from Johnny Kahner, the University of Minnesota baseball play- by-play guy: How badly does Bill Guerin want a big right-handed center to put between Kaprizov and Kevin Fiala in the future?

Yeah, I mean, that’d be nice. It’s like having a good left-handed closer. We have so many left-hand shots, mixing a right-handed center would at some point in time be good. We’re gonna try to address a bunch of things in the offseason.

The draft lottery last week was just fascinating now that Team Placeholder has a chance to get the No. 1 overall pick. If you guys lose to Vancouver, you will be in that mix for 12.5 percent chance of getting that first overall pick. Does that create a bit of an interesting conflict even in your own head because I know Wild fans have been debating it ever since? The one thing this team has lacked since 2000 when Marian Gaborik was drafted is the ability at the top of the draft at least to find that blue-chip player.

PIC.TWITTER.COM/ROPFKRJMIL

— MICHAEL RUSSO (@RUSSOHOCKEY) JUNE 28, 2020

I think everybody thinks about it, but our job is to win hockey games, and not to play for a first overall pick. We’re going in to win. You can’t do that. You can’t do that. Like I said, these games are going to come fast and furious. We’ve got to be ready and we’re going in there to win, not play for a pick. You can’t do that. You just don’t do that.

The Athletic LOADED: 07.04.2020 1187285 Montreal Canadiens “To me it’s about giving your players confidence,” Julien said. “I think when you show confidence in your players a lot of times they’re able to come out there and give you your best and probably play their best kind of hockey. For me, I say it often: it’s about coaching. You get in certain Stu on Sports: Giving Canadiens fans a reason for optimism vs. situations in a game where you say: If we want to win this game, I got to Penguins lean a little bit more on my veterans. There’s other times in the game you say: Listen, our young guys have to come up here and really help out

because we don’t want to over-utilize our veterans. You balance things Stu Cowan • Publishing date:Jul 03, 2020 out depending on the situation of the game.

“But I think, at the end of the day, what’s most important is having confidence in your players and showing confidence in them that: Hey, After a disappointing regular season, the Canadiens will get an listen, I know you can go out there and do the job and give them an unexpected fresh start if the NHL can pull off its planned 24-team post- opportunity to gain some experience. But also, I guess, growing in a season. really positive atmosphere and manner. So that’s what we do as coaches. We try and manage that the best we can. At the end of the day, The Canadiens (31-31-9) will be big underdogs against the Pittsburgh it’s about winning. So when things get to a point where you got to make Penguins (40-23-6) in their best-of-five qualifying-round series, but there some tough decisions, you make them. And that doesn’t mean you sit out might be some hope for Montreal fans. young guys. It just means you put out the best players you have to put The Canadiens play a fast, up-tempo system that has gotten them off to out at that time.” quick starts in each of the last two seasons before they faded. They Captain Shea Weber leads the Canadiens with 65 games of playoff started this season with a 4-2-2 record and were 5-1-2 after eight games experience, followed by Karl Alzner (64), Price (60), Brendan Gallagher last season. In a short series with all their players healthy and rested, (40) and Dale Weise (40). Price has a losing record in the playoffs (25- that could work to the Canadiens’ advantage — especially if goalie Carey 31). Price is at the top of his game. Penguins captain Sidney Crosby has played in 164 career playoff games “Well, I hope it is,” Canadiens coach Claude Julien said during a and teammate Evgeni Malkin has played in 162. They both have three conference call Thursday when asked if his team’s speed and fast pace Stanley Cup rings. of play could be an advantage. “I think not just guys rested, but excited, right? They haven’t played in a while, so the excitement, the rest and Byron, Charles Hudon, Laurent Dauphin and goalie Michael McNiven everything you hope will help you along the way. were the only players to skate Friday at the Canadiens’ practice rink in Brossard as Phase 2 of the NHL’s Return to Play Plan continues. “I don’t think, honestly, it would matter who we play,” Julien added. “I think the biggest thing right now for me is the experience that some of TSN’s Bob McKenzie reported on Friday that Phase 3 (training camps) is our young players will be getting. Every year when I meet with you guys now tentatively set to begin on July 13 with teams scheduled to report to (in the media) and for most teams it’s like: ‘What’s your goal?’ Well, it’s the hub cities (expected to be Toronto and Edmonton) on July 26. easy to say our goal is to win the Stanley Cup, but in order to win the Games are tentatively set to begin on Aug. 1. Stanley Cup you got to make the playoffs first and foremost. I always say that: I say our goal is to make the playoffs because once you make the Catching up with Mike Ribeiro playoffs — you’ve seen it before, you saw it with St. Louis last year — it’s Louis-André Larivière of the Journal de Montréal wrote a story about anybody’s game. It’s who’s playing the best hockey at the most important former Canadiens forward Mike Ribeiro, who was back in Montreal time of the year. recently to attend his father’s funeral. “So I’m enjoying the fact that we’re having the opportunity and that we Ribeiro seemed to fall of the face of the earth after playing his final NHL can go in there and have some playoff experience,” the coach added. game with the Nashville Predators in 2017. Even Ribeiro’s agent, Bob “But not just that. We’re not just looking for experience, we’re looking to Perno, didn’t know where he was. win. That’s the bottom line. If you’re going to get better as a team you need to win and the ethic of our sport is about winning. We want to do “When I retired, I decided that I was going to do what I want,” Ribeiro exactly just that. There’s going to be some opportunities for a lot of said during an interview with TVASports.ca after an exclusive interview players here to live an experience they haven’t lived yet. So we look on the La Poche bleue podcast. “I was not going to answer anyone. It forward to that.” may not have been the best way, but since I was very young, I did whatever I was asked. I was about to be 40 years old and I told myself The Canadiens had a 1-1-1 record this season against the Penguins. that when I retired, I was going to party …” The Canadiens won 4-1 in Pittsburgh on Dec. 10 and lost both games in Montreal, 3-2 in overtime on Jan. 4 and 4-1 on Feb. 14. Ribeiro earned a well-deserved reputation as a party boy during his six seasons with the Canadiens and that played a big role in him being I wouldn’t bet on the Canadiens beating the Penguins, but if one thing is traded to the Dallas Stars on Sept. 30, 2006 in exchange for defenceman true about the NHL playoffs it’s that anything can happen. Janne Niinimaa and a fifth-round pick at the 2007 NHL Draft (Andrew Who would have predicted the Columbus Blue Jackets would sweep the Conboy). Tampa Bay Lightning in the first round of the playoffs last year? The “If I had taken care of my body and focused on hockey 100 per cent, I Lightning (62-16-4) had the best record in the NHL during the regular would have helped a team win a Stanley Cup,” Ribeiro said in the Journal season — 21 points better than any other team — and finished 30 points de Montréal story. ahead of the Blue Jackets (47-31-4). “Once I was 40, I changed my lifestyle,” he added. “I wanted to show my The Calgary Flames (50-25-7), who had the second-best record in the children another side of me. I wanted to stay close to them. And health is NHL last season, lost to the Colorado Avalanche (38-30-14) in five very important.” games in the first round of the playoffs. Ribeiro said he would now like to get into coaching. Juggling act for Julien COVID-19 test not fun for Habs’ Weise With a young team that includes two key players who have never played an NHL playoff game — Max Domi and Nick Suzuki — Julien will have a Dale Weise has returned to Montreal ahead of Phase 3 of the NHL’s bit of a juggling act on his hand as he balances experience and youth Return to Play Plan. against the Penguins. Weise took some questions from fans on Twitter and one asked if the Victor Mete, Brett Kulak, Jesperi Kotkaniemi and Ryan Poehling have COVID-19 test he had to take hurt. also never played in an NHL playoff game, while Phillip Danault, Artturi Lehkonen and Paul Byron have only played in one playoff series, when “Big time, take a swab shove it as far up your nose as you can for ten the Canadiens lost to the New York Rangers in six games three years seconds!” Weise responded. ago. Another fan asked how Weise feels about leaving his family behind once players report to their hub city for post-season games. “Don’t feel very good about it at all,” Weise responded. When asked how his family is doing, Weise responded: “My family is incredible my twins are talking and running around and my 6 month old pup is the best thanks for asking!”

When asked what he’s looking forward to most now, Weise responded: “Just being with the guys it ended so abruptly and that was it so just getting back together will be great!”

Montreal Gazette LOADED: 07.04.2020 1187286 New Jersey Devils The Devils started this season 9-13-4 with Hynes coaching, then were 19-16-8 under Nasreddine, whose club was 6-2-2 in its final 10 games with a watered-down lineup.

Devils ‘not ready to make playoffs,' but ‘absolutely’ should keep GM and “Based on what I watched with the New Jersey Devils and watching what coach, former exec says Alain Nasreddine did, I think he did a fantastic job,” Button said. “A coach’s job in my view, and I’m very clear on this, is to maximize potential of the players and make sure that the team plays to its capabilities as a group. I think he did that exceptionally well.” Updated Jul 03, 2020; Posted Jul 03, 2020 Button also has been greatly impressed with Fitzgerald’s work as a first- By Randy Miller time GM since he replaced Shero on Jan. 14.

“I think Tommy can be a good general manager,” Button said. “I hope he Other than last week’s NHL draft lottery, it was a nothing month of June keeps that job. He’s passionate, smart and hardworking. He connects. I for the Devils. It’ll probably be the same for a lot longer, too. They went love him.” on hockey hiatus back in March when the COVID-19 pandemic basically Even though Button believes the Devils still are a year or two away from shut down the country and they might not play again until January, if the being a playoff team, he sees them continuing to improve with Fitzgerald rumors are true that the league plans to start next season on New Year’s staying as GM and Nasreddine back to coach a squad that has two Day. potential star centers as building blocks, recent first overall picks Nico The Devils still do have important business to address that management Hischier and Jack Hughes. has put off for months. “They also have some younger players coming into the system,” Button Devils GM Tom Fitzgerald still has that interim label in front of his title, as said. “So what does that mean for where they’re at and what does that does head coach Alain Nasreddine. Once they were elevated from mean for who can guide the team at this particular moment in time?” assistants into their current roles due to GM Ray Shero and coach John Although their sample sizes are small, Button believes Fitzgerald and Hynes’ in-season firings a month apart, the Devils got better. They even Nasreddine showed that they are the right GM/coach tandem for a Devils made a late playoff push after a fire sale led to several star players being franchise that appears to be trending up. dealt away for prospects, former league MVP Taylor Hall and captain Andy Greene included. “Can the Devils continue to move in the right direction? Yes, they can,” Button said. “But they’re not ready to be a playoff team because they Fitzgerald has been the favorite all along to keep his job, but NBC need a couple scoring wingers, and they need a No. 1 and a No. 2 hockey analyst/former Penguins coach Ed Olczyk reportedly interviewed defenseman. I also don’t know that Mackenzie Blackwood is a No. 1 for the GM job. goalie even though he might be. Meanwhile, a mid-June report had the Devils narrowing their coaching “If they’re getting into the last quarter of their season next year and hunt down to four finalists – big names Peter Laviolette and Gerald they’re competitive, I think that’s the next step for the New Jersey Devils.” Gallant, plus Nasreddine and a mystery man. John Stevens also interviewed. The looming GM and coach decisions will shape those next steps.

Why the delay? “Both deserve to keep their jobs,” Button said.

“The Devils are not yet ready to make any proclamations,” Elliotte Star Ledger LOADED: 07.04.2020 Friedman of Sportsnet wrote in late May. “I do think ownership is continuing its search at the executive level. Admittedly, I find it hard to read and am not sure about where this will go.”

More than a month later, TSN hockey analyst Craig Button told NJ Advance Media, “Maybe they’re just being diligent. Maybe they’re just being purposeful. Maybe they’re just doing things that to try to satisfy themselves that they’re doing the right thing.”

A former Calgary Flames GM, Button knows the NHL about as well as anyone, and his two cents on this fiasco is that the Devils should keep what they have.

“Absolutely,” Button said. “All I would say is the Devils better be careful about trying to win a press conference. If you’re hoping to introduce somebody as a coach or GM and you want to hire a name … Go through the qualifications. What does the job require? What do you expect from this position?”

Button thinks that Devils ownership and would be making a gross error in judgment thinking its franchise could go from missing the playoffs seven of eight seasons to contending with a young team next season by virtue of hiring Laviolette, who coached three franchises to the Stanley Cup Finals and won with the 2006 Carolina Hurricanes, or Gallant, who led the expansion Vegas Golden Knights to the 2018 Cup Finals.

“As I look at the New Jersey Devils, if they have a hope of making the playoffs next year, I think they’re delusional,” Button said. “They’re not they’re not ready to make the playoffs. They’re too young. They don’t have enough depth and skill. Franchises make mistakes because they don’t understand where their team is at, and so now there are unrealistic expectations and you think a particular coach is right for the team.

“I know where Gerald Gallant has coached and what he has done. I know what Peter Laviolette has done. But I’ll be quite frank, I would like for somebody to make the case why Alain Nasreddine shouldn’t be the coach, not why he should be the coach. Tell me why he shouldn’t be the coach based on his record.” 1187287 New York Islanders revenue to which they are entitled. But no other players backed up his sentiments on social media.

Newsday LOADED: LOADED: 07.04.2020 NHL, NHLPA yet to reach consensus on final return-to-play details

By Colin Stephenson

Updated July 3, 2020 10:31 PM

While consensus on the last details of the return-to-play agreement between the NHL and its players’ union has yet to be reached, a report Friday suggested that dates for the resumption of the 2019-20 season have been set, with the opening of training camps for the 24 returning teams scheduled for July 13 and games resuming Aug. 1.

In a string of tweets Friday morning, TSN’s Bob McKenzie reported that the two sides are “believed to be close’’ but an agreement was “still not done.’’ He suggested that a tentative agreement could be reached Friday but that talks could extend into the weekend.

Once agreement is reached, the deal will have to be approved by the owners and players. If the deal is agreed to this weekend, it could be put to all the players for a vote early next week, with a simple majority needed to approve it.

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Island Ice Ep. 37: Get to the bubble

The NHL had announced that Phase 3 of the return-to-play plan — training camps — would begin no sooner than July 10. But for the last few weeks, many had speculated that date could be pushed back to July 13.

According to McKenzie, teams will report to the two hub cities — reportedly Edmonton and Toronto — on July 26. It’s believed that once there, teams will play a “preseason’’ game or two before the games are resumed.

Under the league plan, the Islanders and Rangers will go to Toronto along with 10 other Eastern Conference teams. Both teams will take part in a best-of-five play-in series to advance to the 16-team playoffs, with the seventh-seeded Islanders facing the 10th-seeded Panthers and the 11th-seeded Rangers facing the sixth-seeded Hurricanes.

According to McKenzie, the second phase of the NHL’s draft lottery will take place after the play-in round is finished, somewhere around Aug. 10- 12. In the first phase of the lottery, it was determined that one of the eight play-in losers will pick first in the NHL Draft, meaning if the Rangers or Islanders lose in the play-in round, they will have a 12.5% chance of landing the No. 1 pick.

Since June 8, the NHL has been in Phase 2 of its return plan, with team facilities open to players — on a voluntary basis — for workouts, treatment and skating. Two weeks ago, the Tampa Bay Lightning shut down their facility after three players and some staff tested positive for COVID-19. This week, the league announced that 15 players working out at team facilities and another 11 working out outside of team facilities had tested positive for the virus since June 8.

With training camps set to open in little more than a week, more and more players have been showing up at team facilities, especially with players coming in from certain outside areas possibly facing a mandatory self-quarantine period.

All of the Rangers who spent the NHL pause in Europe have been coming back to New York in the last two weeks. All of the team’s European players are in New York now, and, assuming all test negative for COVID-19, they should be ready to go July 13. The final group — Swedes Henrik Lundqvist, Mika Zibanejad and Jesper Fast, Czechs Filip Chytil and Libor Hajek and Finnish rookie Kaapo Kakko — arrived late Thursday.

Rangers forward Artemi Panarin caused a mild stir when he said on social media a week ago that NHL players should not report to training camp unless the NHL and NHLPA are able to “fix the escrow,’’ referring to the percentage of players’ salaries that is withheld from their paychecks until after the season is over in order to ensure that players don’t end up getting more than the 50% of the league’s hockey-related 1187288 New York Islanders good thing coming. We were on the outside (of the playoff picture), but we kind of liked where we were at.

On how much he followed the NHL news during the lockdown, Brian Boyle on being locked down in South Florida, history with Isles and considering the Panthers were not in a playoff spot at the time play more stopped

It’s tough. You want to know one way or the other, are we going to be involved in this or not? Once they did, it was exciting. And then from By Arthur Staple Jul 3, 2020 there, that’s when I started paying a little more attention. Also, the fact is, what else was I going to do? You work out for an hour and a half, play

with the kids and I’m going to look at my phone, find out what information Florida Panthers center Brian Boyle is on his sixth team in seven years, I could get. but with his club included in the 24-team tournament that’s slated to It all seemed kind of far away. With what was going on in the world, in the begin next month, he’s in the postseason for the 10th consecutive year. country, other stuff seemed more important. Just making sure the family The 35-year-old center was this week’s guest on the “No Sleep Til was staying safe, people trying to look at facts or political alignment in Belmont” podcast to discuss a variety of topics, including his lockdown terms of what this whole pandemic was bringing. I don’t care what you experience in South Florida, his long history with the Islanders and his think — nobody wants to get this thing, even if it doesn’t affect you, it’s own health concerns in returning to play — Boyle was diagnosed with what you could do to other people. I paid a lot of attention to that. chronic myeloid leukemia in 2017. When they decided it was 24 teams, might be a hub city, Gary (Bettman) On the lockdown and getting back on the ice last month was on TV and it was really interesting. It was exciting because, again, Anyone who’s got children, small children in school, you know you’ve had I’m 35 and I love to do this. This is a chance to continue to do this. to do the teacher thing and without needing to go to work, stuck at home On his long history with the Islanders — it’s basically like that. I’ve got a 3- and 5-year old who have a ton of energy. We’ve been figuring out ways for them to burn off that energy No matter where any of the teams I’ve been on or where the Islanders without putting ourselves in the hospital. Up until recently, not being able are, there was a certain brand of hockey they played, especially when I to get back on the ice, it was a challenge, just trying to enjoy that time was in New York, certainly in Jersey. In Tampa, it’s those playoff games with the kids and now it’s a little more regimented, a little more and that’s when their identity came out the most. I do think about those structured. For me anyways — my wife’s ready to throw me off the times but also, we’re not going to the Coliseum, I’m not in Madison balcony. Square Garden or The Rock, I’m not at the Barclays in the playoffs, getting beer poured on my head after an overtime winner. I’m not getting With the news this last week, it’s been a little more exciting so we can death threats from their fans because I had a “dirty” hit. have something to look forward to. Those are memories that are just the passion the playoffs bring out. We On how he’s feeling after all this time off can only hope it remains. Hopefully, everybody’s tuned in. I know that fan I look back at last year on this day and there were a number of things we base will be. We’re trying to grow our fan base and the way to do that is could’ve done. Then I didn’t sign until October. I was thinking about that by winning. It’s going to be exciting, it’s going to be different because it’s today. not at any of those places. It’s at the neutral site. But in terms of a club, it’s much different now in terms of what they have, last year they were Our first game back after the All-Star break, I tweaked something and it impressive. They’re really well-coached. That identity they had when they got worse and worse. I was about to come back and then the pandemic were really playing well, that’s what I remember. hit. So I already had my break. I’m ready to go. I’m excited, my body’s back, I feel good, I had plenty of time, more than I would have liked. I’m And it amplifies in the playoffs. You go until you can’t anymore, as hard lucky the house I’m renting down here has a gym; I’ve been able to kill as you can. That’s what happens when it’s win or go home. It’s the some time in there. Now that I’m back on the ice, I feel like I’ve waited hardest hockey, but it’s the most fun and rewarding. long enough. It doesn’t matter what month it is, what time of year it is. On his overtime winner in Game 3 of the 2016 second round, the turning There’s obviously guys who had weddings planned, births. The way I point of that Tampa Bay-Isles series look at it is I’ve had enough time off, I love to do this and to have the When I got on the ice, I hadn’t been playing a ton that game, but I felt opportunity to jump right into a win-or-go-home situation, which is the pretty good. We tied it late and it was overtime. I had to do something. I most fun hockey to play. It’s just kind of unique. If it works out the way we just remember the play, it was neutral zone and I went a little more hope it will, it should be really exciting. aggressively than normal. We were sort of trapping down a little bit, trying Our team feels the same way — we live in Florida, it’s warm all the time to stop plays at the red line and I decided I was just going to go hard at here, so we’re used to it. the D man. He made a pass, and I just kind of finished the hit.

On the Panthers’ season so far I didn’t hit him high. There’s one angle where it looks like I did, a little bit of a head snap on his part. I’ve known Thomas (Hickey) since he got We’d been talking for a couple weeks (before I signed), but with the cap, drafted to L.A. Great guy, I respect him a lot. From that angle, it could there were a couple of things that needed to be done if I was going to be have been a call, where the ref was standing. But I think he knew able to sign. I was holding out hope it was going to be here so I waited, everything was down on me. I didn’t actually think I hit him that hard. but I also was trying to get myself through a training camp without being Don’t know if I got him in a spot that he wasn’t expecting. I guess it was at training camp. I did everything I could to get in as good a shape as I kind of out of character for me to extend out that far. could, and I thought I did a pretty good job. When we got the puck back, I tried to make a play to (Ryan) Callahan, I had a practice, a morning skate and I played. Two guys were injured the who was covered by a back-checker and fortunate for us it went to Victor night before, so I played quite a bit more than I thought I would. The first (Hedman). I just skated to the post thinking if he hits the net, it could seven to eight games I felt really, really good. Then the adrenaline wears come to me. It comes off the backboard, and it was kind of bouncing. off a bit, then I found my game again and I felt good. One of the more skilled plays I’ve ever made was stopping that puck because that ice can be a little finicky there at the Barclays Center. As a team, we were scoring a ton of goals early, then we had to find our identity in our own end, and right before the break we were on a tear, I got it to settle down and then after I scored, I thought somebody was doing great, then after the break, it was the opposite. We had kind of a going to come after me. The game was over. I was right and I was wrong reset meeting and we found that game again, playing some low-scoring because I did a little spin and there was a guy coming full speed at me, games and defending well. but it was Callahan. He jumped on me. I had to hold him in the air. Never scored an overtime playoff goal before, something I’ll never forget. Then I With the firepower we have, the young guys we have — (Aleksander) got a nice shower, tried to get off the ice before anything else was thrown Barkov, (Jonathan) Huberdeau, (Evgenii) Dadonov, (Mike) Hoffman — at me and get down the tunnel. we can score goals. (Aaron) Ekblad is getting better every year. Bob (Sergei Bobrovsky) was really appreciative of how we reorganized in our own end. His game was starting to take off. I thought we had a pretty On teaming with Matt Martin the next season, when he was dealt to Toronto at the trade deadline

We’ll say Matt brought up (2016) a couple times. He was so helpful to me in Toronto, gave me some rides. I’d never been traded midseason before, so he was a huge help. After the first day of being nice to me, showing me the ropes, he made sure to tell me how he felt about the year before. We had a little bit of an argument.

I respected that (Islanders) team so much. Especially that line with him, (Casey) Cizikas and (Cal) Clutterbuck, they had such a huge impact on that team and in games. The next year we went into Washington with the Leafs and we had conversations, me and Matty and Kasperi Kapanen. We wanted to be that line, be that difference-maker. It was a lot of fun, those are good memories too.

On finding a better defensive identity going into the restart

There’s so much to defending. First and foremost, you’ve got to have that commitment to it. You have to be able to communicate and be on the same page. If you’re waiting for somebody to do something or you’re not on the same page. It doesn’t matter how hard you work, you’ll just be running around like chickens with their heads cut off. Everybody has to be focused in the video sessions, asking the right questions. What happens if this, if that, competing.

You have breakdowns, but those breakdowns need to be predictable for our goalie. Six guys in your own end, everybody has to know where things are going and how you’re supposed to defend. That takes commitment on and off the ice, game days and practice days. We learned that but with this layoff, we have to open the books again and get back to work.

Everybody’s healthy, so you’re going to have extra guys. Everyone’s going to want to get in there and contribute. I think that’s going to be a huge part of it. You want to be trusted by your teammates and coaching staff because every team I’ve been on that’s had good runs, there’s definitely talent but — when I was in New York and we went to the Final, our leading scorer had 60 points in 82 games. But we defended, we had contributions from a lot of guys and we had an identity that everybody played to. It takes work. We have to be able to do that.

That’s what most teams are going to have to understand. We need to be as much of a finished product as we can be. There’s no time for rust, no exhibition season, no October to figure out your identity. You have to be ready to go from jump street.

On his own health and any concerns returning

I’ve had a few conversations, just because our understanding of this thing (the coronavirus) has changed. Everybody was bleaching everything at first and now we learn different things about the virus, how it affects different people, ones with underlying issues. As far as I am told and what I understand – first is how I feel, and I feel totally normal. I feel great. I’m still tested every three months or so, just got them back maybe a week ago, still at complete zeroes across the board, which is great news.

So I’m as healthy as anyone my age and in terms of what we do, how we have to take care of our bodies to do what we do, it’s no more risk than anybody else. That said, we’re putting a lot of faith and trust in the epidemiologists that are heading this thing up. And it’s a well-planned thing when you think of not just us but coaches, training staff, everyone who has to play a part in making this thing go. The players are one thing, but there’s a lot of people involved.

We don’t want anything bad to happen. That’s a real thought, a real concern for players. So we’re going to do everything we can. What I can control is staying in shape, being ready physically and getting excited. But if it doesn’t work, it doesn’t work. I don’t think anybody can argue, “Hey, let’s do it anyway.” If the risks outweigh the rewards, then that’s that. I’m healthy, I’m excited, I’ll probably ask again before we fully go through with this. But I feel I’m in a good spot.

The Athletic LOADED: 07.04.2020 1187289 New York Rangers

Rangers’ European players all back in New York ahead of training camp

By Mollie WalkerJuly 3, 2020 | 10:06am | Updated

All of the Rangers’ European players are back in New York as of Thursday night and following the NHL’s ‘Return to Play’ protocol as the potential start of training camp on July 13 inches closer, the team confirmed to The Post Friday.

The players who went back to Europe since the global coronavirus pandemic shut down the 2019-20 regular season in March include Henrik Lundqvist, Mika Zibanejad, Jesper Fast, Kaapo Kakko, Alexandar Georgiev and Filip Chytil.

There are still more Rangers making their way back into the New York area.

Players returning for training camp from outside the United States, or different parts of the country, are subject to the league’s ‘Return to Play’ protocol. This includes getting tested for COVID-19 when they arrive in New York and again before they can be cleared to practice.

The league is still in Phase 2 of the ‘Return to Play’ plan, holding voluntary small-group workouts at team practice facilities as players make their way back to their respective markets. Players are only permitted to skate in the same groups of fewer than 12 and are undergoing frequent testing. The Post reported Thursday that the the opening of team camps (Phase 3) was being pushed back until at least July 13.

According to TSN, the NHL is targeting July 26 for teams to report to their hub cities, confirmed by The Post to be Toronto and Edmonton, with the 24-team playoff tournament — Phase 4 — targeted to begin Aug. 1.

New York Post LOADED: 07.04.2020 1187290 New York Rangers

NHL, NHLPA yet to reach consensus on final return-to-play details

By Colin Stephenson

Updated July 3, 2020 10:31 PM

While consensus on the last details of the return-to-play agreement between the NHL and its players’ union has yet to be reached, a report Friday suggested that dates for the resumption of the 2019-20 season have been set, with the opening of training camps for the 24 returning teams scheduled for July 13 and games resuming Aug. 1.

In a string of tweets Friday morning, TSN’s Bob McKenzie reported that the two sides are “believed to be close’’ but an agreement was “still not done.’’ He suggested that a tentative agreement could be reached Friday but that talks could extend into the weekend.

Once agreement is reached, the deal will have to be approved by the owners and players. If the deal is agreed to this weekend, it could be put to all the players for a vote early next week, with a simple majority needed to approve it.

The NHL had announced that Phase 3 of the return-to-play plan — training camps — would begin no sooner than July 10. But for the last few weeks, many had speculated that date could be pushed back to July 13.

According to McKenzie, teams will report to the two hub cities — reportedly Edmonton and Toronto — on July 26. It’s believed that once there, teams will play a “preseason’’ game or two before the games are resumed.

Under the league plan, the Islanders and Rangers will go to Toronto along with 10 other Eastern Conference teams. Both teams will take part in a best-of-five play-in series to advance to the 16-team playoffs, with the seventh-seeded Islanders facing the 10th-seeded Panthers and the 11th-seeded Rangers facing the sixth-seeded Hurricanes.

According to McKenzie, the second phase of the NHL’s draft lottery will take place after the play-in round is finished, somewhere around Aug. 10- 12. In the first phase of the lottery, it was determined that one of the eight play-in losers will pick first in the NHL Draft, meaning if the Rangers or Islanders lose in the play-in round, they will have a 12.5% chance of landing the No. 1 pick.

Since June 8, the NHL has been in Phase 2 of its return plan, with team facilities open to players — on a voluntary basis — for workouts, treatment and skating. Two weeks ago, the Tampa Bay Lightning shut down their facility after three players and some staff tested positive for COVID-19. This week, the league announced that 15 players working out at team facilities and another 11 working out outside of team facilities had tested positive for the virus since June 8.

With training camps set to open in little more than a week, more and more players have been showing up at team facilities, especially with players coming in from certain outside areas possibly facing a mandatory self-quarantine period.

All of the Rangers who spent the NHL pause in Europe have been coming back to New York in the last two weeks. All of the team’s European players are in New York now, and, assuming all test negative for COVID-19, they should be ready to go July 13. The final group — Swedes Henrik Lundqvist, Mika Zibanejad and Jesper Fast, Czechs Filip Chytil and Libor Hajek and Finnish rookie Kaapo Kakko — arrived late Thursday.

Rangers forward Artemi Panarin caused a mild stir when he said on social media a week ago that NHL players should not report to training camp unless the NHL and NHLPA are able to “fix the escrow,’’ referring to the percentage of players’ salaries that is withheld from their paychecks until after the season is over in order to ensure that players don’t end up getting more than the 50% of the league’s hockey-related revenue to which they are entitled. But no other players backed up his sentiments on social media.

Newsday LOADED: LOADED: 07.04.2020 1187291 Philadelphia Flyers 1974 playoffs, had not lost at Boston Garden to the Flyers in the last 18 games (16-0-2). It’s no wonder the Bruins were the favorites before the series started.

Flyers flashback: Bernie Parent’s late mom, Fred Shero’s odd strategy, Clarke’s view Rick MacLeish’s goal produce a Stanley Cup for the ages Clarke didn’t see it that way, however.

“We were a better coached team and we had better goaltending,” he by Sam Carchidi, said. “Defensively, as a team, we were better.”

The Flyers would also win the Cup in 1975 by beating Buffalo in six games. Joe Watson said the first Cup was sweeter. Tenth in a series counting down the 10 most memorable playoff wins in the Flyers’ history. Today: No. 1. “We weren’t even given a chance against the Bruins,” said Watson, a key defenseman on those championship teams who has been selling Forty-six years later, Bob Clarke has an indelible imprint of Rick advertising for the Flyers’ arenas for the last 35 years, "and beating them MacLeish’s first-period goal – arguably the most famous in Flyers history meant so much more. Plus we beat the team I used to play for. So for – and Bernie Parent’s late save on Ken Hodge in a 1-0 Game 6 win over me, the first one definitely meant so much more. I think in the second and the favored on May 19, 1974. one, we were cocky enough and good enough that we knew we were going to win again.” The Spectrum’s roof, which literally had sections blown off twice in a two- week span in 1968, was severely tested again as the final seconds of The Flyers lost in four straight to Montreal in the 1976 Final, but every that epic ticked away and Gene Hart made what would become a game was close. The Flyers were without two key injured players: Parent legendary call from the broadcast booth. and MacLeish.

“Ladies and gentlemen, the Flyers are going to win the Stanley Cup! The “If we have them, who knows what happens,” Watson said. Flyers win the Stanley Cup! The Flyers win the Stanley Cup! The Flyers have won the Stanley Cup!” After MacLeish’s four-on-three goal in the 1974 clincher, “we had no intention of sitting on a one-goal lead,” said Clarke, whose Flyers “The one thing that remains really clear for me was MacLeish’s goal,” became the first team from the 1967 expansion to win the Cup. “We had Clarke, now a Flyers senior adviser, then the captain and leader of a lots of scoring chances and so did they over the course of the game. And team whose franchise started just seven years earlier, said in a recent the longer the game went, the tighter we played [defensively].” phone interview. “[Andre] Dupont shot the puck, and both Orr and I were in the penalty box, so I had a clear view – right from the shot to the Unusual strategy deflection to the goal.” The Flyers had an unusual strategy in that series – let Orr, who was 26 In Flyers Decades, an online show that had several of the ’74 champs on years old and establishing himself as the most dynamic defenseman in a Zoom call last month, Clarke recalled an impromptu talk he had with NHL history, carry the puck a lot. Oh, and hit him at every opportunity. MacLeish before the Cup-clincher. In other words, Flyers coach Fred Shero wanted to wear down the “I got Ricky MacLeish in the bathroom before Game 6,” he said. “I said, ‘If Bruins’ superstar. you don’t play the game of your life, Rick, we won’t win the Cup.’ He said, “Before the series started, Shero said so much of their offense revolved ‘I will.’ I wasn’t responsible for his play, but part of leadership is to remind around Orr. He was that good of a player,” Clarke said. “He told us guys you need them to play good, to ask for help.” repeatedly, ‘Shoot the puck in his corner and, even if you’re tired, go as Rick MacLeish was the NHL's leading playoff scorer in the 1973-74 and hard as you can and chase him down and make him go back fast for 1974-75 seasons. The Flyers won the Stanley Cup both years. every puck. If you can get there in time, run into him.’ He wanted us to make him skate back fast and eventually over the course of the series it In addition to MacLeish’s deflected power-play goal, Clarke said, his would take its toll.” most vivid memory of the 1-0 clincher was how Parent coolly preserved the victory. The strategy worked. Orr was not a factor in Game 6.

“I remember late in the game, Ken Hodge coming down – and again I’m “I think that was probably the first series where Orr saw a team throwing sitting on the bench with a clear view of it – and Parent made a skate the puck at him,” Clarke said. “Normally, teams were throwing it away save on him,” Clarke said. from him.”

It turned out to be the biggest save in what still remains the most At that time, Clarke said, “the Bruins were still playing two-minute shifts. memorable win in franchise history. We were the first team that went down to one-minute shifts, and now they’re down to about 35 seconds. So we constantly had fresh legs on “From the bench, I thought it was going in,” Clarke said. “Parent just the ice to chase him down a lot.” stuck his leg out there. He made so many of those types of saves, that you start taking them for granted after a while, but that’s one I In the closing seconds of the game, Orr shot the puck deep into the remember.” Flyers’ end. Behind the net, Watson waited before touching it, hoping the final seconds would tick away. Tension mounts “I didn’t touch it until [Boston’s] Wayne Cashman was near me,” said As the final minutes ticked down, the thick tension at the Spectrum tried Watson, who had Orr as his best man when he got married. turning to excitement, but the score was too close for the 17,007 fans to relax, too close to start celebrating, too close to almost catch your breath. Four seconds remained. But instead of having a faceoff down at the Bruins’ end following the icing, fans started climbing onto the ice. The The fans could exhale, however, after Parent stopped Hodge’s ticketed, celebration began. vicious slap shot with under three minutes remaining. “Terry Crisp, the little bugger, he jumped right off the bench and he “That wasn’t me that made that save,” Parent said the other day. “That comes running over and grabs the puck right off my stick,” Watson said. was my mom.” “I said, ‘What the hell you doing?’ He said, ‘It’s over!’ I said it can’t be over. There’s still four seconds left.’ ” It was fitting, Parent said, that the Flyers won the Cup on May 19. His mother, Emilie, 64, had died a year earlier on May 19. She was also born Watson let out a hearty laugh, mindful the officials waved off the last four on May 19. seconds. {Watson misremembered the ending. The linesman actually took the puck from him and Crisp quickly asked for it -- “It means more to “Imagine that,” Parent said. me than you,” he told him -- and was handed the precious keepsake.) The Bruins had the league’s top four point producers in the 1973-74 “I’m pretty sure he still has the puck today, the rascal,” Watson said. regular season and had the home ice advantage in the Finals. They were full of veterans who had won Cups in 1970 and 1972, and, entering the He does. Crisp held it up at the end of a recent Flyers Decades show. “It’s worth a hell of a lot of money,” Watson said. “I think what he should do is sell that puck and take us out for some beers.”

Then again, none of that team’s champs probably have had to pay for a beer since their dramatic win on May 19, 1974, the day, their star goalie insists, his late mother helped her son make perhaps the most important save in franchise history.

Cheers, Emilie Parent.

Philadelphia Inquirer / Daily News LOADED: 07.04.2020 1187292 Philadelphia Flyers The scrappy fourth-year Flyer was announced Thursday as the recipient of the season's Toyota Cup, gaining more points than any teammate through ‘Star of the Game’ selections.

Flyers' Oskar Lindblom revels in emotional hospital farewell Konecny earned 43 points in the contest, outpointing Kevin Hayes by one and goalie Carter Hart by three. The Toyota Cup awards five points for being selected first star after games, three for second star and one for third. Staff and wire report 20 hrs ago Konecny led the Flyers with 24 goals and 61 points during the regular

season of 69 games. PHILADELPHIA — Flyers forward Oskar Lindblom has completed Delaware County Times LOADED: 07.04.2020 radiation treatments for a rare form of bone cancer.

The Flyers tweeted a video Thursday showing Lindblom ringing the bell at Abramson Cancer Center at Hospital, which signifies that he has completed his radiation treatments. The 23-year-old was diagnosed in December with Ewing’s sarcoma, a cancerous tumor that grows in the bones or in the tissue around bones.

“I can’t even explain how I feel,” Lindblom said. “It feels like having my birthday, Christmas and all those holidays at the same time. It feels awesome to be done. I can’t wait to get back to normal life again and feel like I’m living.”

His girlfriend, Alma Lindqvist, hugged Lindblom after he rang the bell and they were cheered by nurses who treated him.

“MY LOVE IS CANCER FREE,” she wrote on social media.

Lindblom, Lindqvist and the nurses, all in masks, posed for photos and he presented the staff with his autographed No. 23 jersey. The rising star, who had 11 goals and 18 points in 30 games this season, thanked everyone for the support.

“From family to friends to fans, I can’t explain how much that meant to me, especially at the start,” Lindblom said. “It was a rough time and I got all those kind words. It just made me feel so much better and calm and (it was) a real help.”

Lindblom recently skated at the Flyers’ complex in Voorhees, N.J. He has been ruled out of playing should the NHL season resume.

"I can't say enough about this young man," said Flyers general manager Chuck Fletcher. "Everyone can see the talent and impact that Oskar has had for us on the ice, but he is an outstanding teammate in our locker room and a genuinely good person. His attitude and strength through all of this is a tremendous inspiration for us all. Today is a great day. Congrats to Oskar. We look forward to having him rejoin our team in the near future."

Lindblom was one of the Flyers' leading scorers at the time of his diagnosis last fall. The club finished in second place in the Metropolitan Division and is awaiting the start of the round-robin tournament that precedes the playoffs.

“I’m just happy that I’m alive and I caught it early,” Lindblom said.

Time flies.

Highly touted Flyers bubble rookie Morgan Frost, who spent time going between South Philly and Allentown during the season, turned 21 in May. Before you know it he'll be retirement age.

For now, of course, Frost will continue pursuing that bright future everyone predicts for him. At least during the coronavirus shutdown, he had an advantage over almost everyone else in the league.

The Ontario native was able to stay in shape during the pause by way of some help from a family member. See, his mother owns a workout facility.

“I couldn’t really leave the house," Frost said Wednesday of the early days dealing with the pandemic. "I just did some little stuff at home (until) I was able to get out a little bit."

Essentially what he did was gratefully accept mom's key to work.

“My trainer would meet me there," Frost said. "We would do one-on-one stuff. Keep it safe. ... It was nice for my mom to do that and use the gym."

A contract holdout at the start of the season didn't slow Travis Konecny down during this interrupted 2019-20 hockey season. 1187293 Philadelphia Flyers The 24-team tournament could really factor into the Grant equation. If the 30-year-old has an influential tourney and the Flyers go on a run, he could win over the club. He's a quality bottom-six guy who won't require a hefty contract that severely handcuffs the Flyers next season or down the Will Flyers re-sign Justin Braun, Derek Grant when NHL free agency rolls line. around? Comcast SportsNet.com LOADED: 07.04.2020

By Jordan Hall July 03, 2020 3:15 PM

July 1 came and went rather quietly in the hockey world. Annually, the day is filled with players signing new contracts and joining new teams as the free agency period officially opens.

This year, that was obviously not the case. As the NHL and NHLPA continue to work toward a resumption and eventual conclusion of the 2019-20 season, the entry draft and free agency must wait.

According to a report by TSN's Bob McKenzie, both sides are looking at Nov. 1 being the new July 1.

The offseason will be different and challenging considering the times. The salary cap floor, which typically climbs each year, is expected to remain flat at $81.5 million. In an excellent article published Wednesday, TSN's Frank Seravalli highlighted the key questions and challenges facing free agency, while outlining his top 50 pending unrestricted free agents.

On Seravalli's list were two current Flyers: Justin Braun at No. 19 and Derek Grant at No. 41. Will the Flyers re-sign them? With the league's return-to-play 24-team tournament still to be held, a lot can change from now until Nov. 1, but let's break down the Flyers' outlook for both of these players.

Braun

The case for Braun is interesting and the chances of the Flyers re-signing the experienced defenseman feel like 50-50. Braun, a stay-at-home blueliner who specializes in killing plays, helped stabilize the Flyers on the back end and improved their goal-prevention efforts (which were a major problem last season).

However, the Flyers will be cognizant of his age. Braun is 33 years old and made $3.8 million this season. At the current stage of his career, what will Braun be eyeing for his next deal? One would think he'd have to look for a cheaper price if he wants more years on his new contract, something that can be attractive to a veteran player eyeing job security.

The Flyers, though, have solid youth and depth at his position, along with a nice stable of blue-line prospects in the system. Understandably, for those reasons the Flyers might be wary of dedicating years to an older defenseman.

If Braun is willing to be pretty flexible in his terms, the Flyers shouldn't be opposed to bringing him back. He has made them better in 2019-20. But if push comes to shove a bit, especially in a tighter offseason, the Flyers may have to say thank you and move forward with their youngsters or another option.

Grant

The initial impression of the Grant trade deadline acquisition was good rental for cheap.

What made Grant such a cost-effective move by general manager Chuck Fletcher? Grant, 29 years old at the time, could help the playoff-hungry Flyers down the stretch with only a $700,000 cap hit and no years left on his contract.

Grant made such a positive impact in his seven-game regular-season audition with the Flyers that they'll absolutely consider re-signing him. The 6-foot-3, 206-pound center also delivered a timely career year of 15 goals and 25 points between his time with the Ducks and Flyers, setting himself up for a nice pay increase.

Grant should be appealing to bring back for the Flyers because he can play down the middle and on the wing; his ability to move around makes him less likely to block a Flyers prospect at a specific position. If Nolan Patrick (migraine disorder) is healthy in 2020-21 and the Flyers are deeper at center, Grant can help on the wing. If Patrick's situation remains uncertain and the Flyers lack depth, Grant can bolster things by playing his natural position. 1187294 Pittsburgh Penguins His time as a member of the Red Wings isn’t nearly as celebrated, but he was definitely a significant player in Detroit. Acquired from the Kings in a trade midway through 1992-93, Coffey joined a deep roster which included All-Star forwards Sergei Fedorov and Steve Yzerman, fitting Double Team: Larry Murphy was repeat champion with Penguins and right in as he recorded 30 points in 30 games while representing the Red Wings team in the All-Star Game.

The next season, Coffey was selected for another All-Star Game, scoring 77 points in 80 games, then a single-season record for the franchise SETH RORABAUGH | Friday, July 3, 2020 5:54 p.m. among defensemen.

During the lockout-shortened 1994-95 campaign, Coffey became Red While the NHL is on hold because of the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, Wings’ second winner of the Norris Trophy as the top defenseman in the the Tribune-Review will offer the Double Team project, an examination of NHL, when he racked up 58 points in 44 games, finishing sixth in the the five best players who have contributed substantially to the Penguins league’s scoring race. The Red Wings, winner of the Presidents’ Trophy and another franchise. For consideration, a player must have played at reached the Stanley Cup Final but were swept by the New Jersey Devils. least the equivalent of a full season for each franchise. (Sorry, Jarome Coffey lasted one more season in Detroit and recorded 74 points in 76 Iginla fans.) games as the Red Wings won the Presidents’ Trophy once again but lost Today, a look at the Detroit Red Wings. The franchise was originally a to the newly relocated Colorado Avalanche in the Western Conference Western Hockey League franchise known as the Victoria (B.C.) Cougars. final. Before the start of the 1996-97 campaign, Coffey was traded to the Moving to Detroit to join the NHL in 1926, the Detroit Cougars became . the Falcons in 1930. By 1932, they adopted their current name. In 160 He was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 2004. all-time games against the Red Wings, the Penguins have a 74-67-16 record. 3. Val Fonteyne, left winger

1. Larry Murphy, defenseman Fonteyne was one of the NHL’s best penalty killers throughout the 1960s and early 1970s. And that’s fitting because he was one of the least Penguins general manager Craig Patrick made significant changes to his penalized players in NHL history. forward ranks during the 1990 offseason with the additions of veterans Joe Mullen, Bryan Trottier and the drafting of prospect Jaromir Jagr. But Debuting with the Red Wings in 1959-60, Fonteyne never recorded more his blue line was a work in progress throughout the 1990-91 season. than six penalty minutes in a season despite regularly playing more than 60 games per season throughout his 13-year career. In 823 career He made a series of trades throughout the season to reconfigure the games, Fonteyne had 26 penalty minutes, including a 185-game streak back end, the biggest of which involved acquiring Murphy and Peter without an infraction, believed to be an NHL record. Taglianetti from the for Chris Dahlquist and Jim Johnson on Dec. 11. A speedy skater who rarely put up significant offensive totals, Fonteyne was a staple in the Red Wings lineup for four seasons — when there Patrick coveted Murphy, the No. 4 overall pick of the 1980 draft by the were only six NHL teams and limited roster spots — before being Los Angeles Kings. He had plenty of skill and could get the puck up ice to claimed by the New York Rangers in the 1963 intra-league draft. He the deep pool of talented forwards Patrick had amassed. would rejoin the Red Wings in February 1965 via waivers, spending three In 44 regular-season games after the trade, Murphy put up 28 points. But more seasons in Detroit. Fonteyne helped the Red Wings reach the it was in the postseason where he showed his true value. While top Stanley Cup Finals in 1961, ‘63 and ‘66. defenseman Paul Coffey missed nearly half of the playoffs due to an eye The Penguins claimed Fonteyne, previously a member of Detroit’s AHL injury, Murphy stepped up by recording 24 points in 24 games, still a affiliate, the , in the 1967 expansion draft and he single-postseason mark for the franchise among defensemen and helped enjoyed his greatest individual success in Pittsburgh over five seasons. the Penguins win their first Stanley Cup title. During the Penguins’ inaugural campaign of 1967-68, he established a In 1991-92, Coffey requested a trade and it was granted, thanks to the career-high with 34 points in 69 games (and no penalty minutes). presence of Murphy who put up 77 points in 77 games that season then Fonteyne helped the Penguins reach their first two playoff appearances, lifted the Stanley Cup once again that spring. in 1970 and ‘72, before joining the newly formed Alberta Oilers of the Murphy’s signature season of 1992-93 saw him post a career-best of 85 in the 1972 offseason. points in 83 games on a team which produced four 100-point scorers in 4. Bryan Watson, defenseman forwards Mario Lemieux (160), Kevin Stevens (111), Rick Tocchet (109) as well as Ron Francis (100) and claimed the Presidents’ Trophy as the “Bugsy” didn’t last in the NHL for 16 years through his skill. He only had league’s best squad in the regular season. But Murphy and the Penguins 155 points in 877 career games. And it wasn’t due to his size. He was a failed to win the Stanley Cup that season as well as the next two compact 5-foot-9 and 177 pounds. seasons. But he was very combative, earning plenty of stitches and black eyes by During the 1995 offseason, Patrick, under some financial constraints, being an agitator. In 877 games, he racked up 2,214 penalty minutes. dealt away several members of the Stanley Cup championship teams, including Murphy who went to the Toronto Maple Leafs. Initially joining the Red Wings in the 1965 intra-league draft, Watson broke through as a full-time NHLer in 1965-66. He appeared in 70 games Murphy’s stay in Toronto was brief and he was traded to the Red Wings and put up a team-leading 133 penalty minutes while helping the Red at the 1997 trade deadline. Joining an already stacked lineup, Murphy Wings reach the Stanley Cup Final. was teamed with No. 1 defenseman Nicklas Lidstrom, put up 11 points in 20 postseason games and helped the Red Wings sweep the Philadelphia By 1976, Watson was selected by the North Stars in the expansion draft Flyers in the Stanley Cup Final, for their first championship in 42 years. A then bounced between the Montreal Canadiens and Oakland Seals year later, Murphy and the Red Wings were once again Stanley Cup before landing in Pittsburgh via trade midway through the 1968-69 champions. season.

Inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 2004, Murphy retired with the Watson’s bellicosity made him an instant favorite in Pittsburgh. Over Red Wings in 2001 having played 1,615 career games, second-most in parts of six seasons, he totaled 871 penalty minutes — fifth in franchise NHL history among defensemen. history — in only 302 games. In 1971-72, he led the NHL with 212 penalty minutes, playing in 75 games. He was the Penguins’ leader in 2. Paul Coffey, defenseman penalty minutes in three of the four complete seasons he spent with the franchise. When discussing Coffey’s marvelous career, his tenures with the Edmonton Oilers as well as the Penguins often stand out. And why not? In January 1974, he was traded to the St. Louis Blues then dealt back to He won the Stanley Cup with each franchise while putting up gaudy the Red Wings a month later. Even in his 30s by this point, Watson still offensive totals playing with the likes of Wayne Gretzky or Lemieux. played a punishing style. After recording 238 penalty minutes in 1974-75, he established a franchise record — since broken — of 322 penalty minutes one season later.

Before being traded to the Washington Capitals by November 1976, Watson spent 303 games in Detroit and recorded 897 penalty minutes.

5. Dean Prentice, left winger

Prentice thrived in the NHL throughout the 1950s and 1960s, primarily with the Rangers and Boston Bruins, when the NHL was limited to six teams. Toward the end of the so-called “original six” era, he joined the Red Wings through trade in February 1966. That postseason, playing on Detroit’s top line with greats Alex Delvecchio and Gordie Howe, he put up 10 points in 12 games and helped the Red Wings advanced to the Stanley Cup Final, losing in six games to the Canadiens.

After putting up 23 goals and 45 points in 68 games in 1966-67, Prentice’s production tailed off over his next two seasons in Detroit before he was claimed by the Penguins during the 1969 intra-league draft. With the Penguins, Prentice enjoyed a late-career renaissance.

During 1969-70, he led the team with 51 points — including a then franchise-record 26 goals — in 75 games and was selected to the All- Star Game, becoming the first Penguins player to score a goal in that contest. He also helped the franchise reach the postseason for the first time that spring.

In 1970-71, Prentice scored 21 goals and 38 points in 69 games. By October 1971, he was traded to the North Stars.

Honorable mentions: Bob Errey, left winger; Robert Lang, center; Luc Robitaille, left winger Jim Rutherford, goaltender; Ron Stackhouse, defenseman.

Tribune Review LOADED: 07.04.2020 1187295 Pittsburgh Penguins year no matter what happens. Now, should Jarry actually get into the net and help his team win a Cup, his $675,000 salary could go through the roof. Cup-winning goalies might be the rarest commodity in the NHL. There are only six of them active. Which Penguins player could benefit the most from another Stanley Cup title? 4. Jared McCann

McCann will also be a restricted free agent after the season, so there are financial concerns at play here, but there’s a lot more to it than that. JONATHAN BOMBULIE AND SETH RORABAUGH | Friday, July 3, 2020 McCann has a lot of tools. He’s a good skater with excellent versatility 6:00 a.m. and a great shot. He’s well liked by his teammates. But he’s bounced around to three teams by age 24. He hasn’t put up eye-popping

numbers. He’s missing a little something from his resume. A Cup would The quest to win a Stanley Cup is usually an eight-month grind. fill that gap. Think of the difference between your perception of Max Talbot and Brandon Sutter. To claim hockey’s most prized possession, players must show up at training camp in September, persevere through an 82-game regular 5. Jack Johnson season and survive four rounds of playoffs into the middle of June. Remember when Patrick Roy said he couldn’t hear Jeremy Roenick’s The unusual circumstances surrounding the currently suspended NHL insults because his Stanley Cup rings were plugging his ears? That’s the season has set up a shortcut. sentiment here. Johnson’s play is regularly panned — usually rightfully so — by critics. A Stanley Cup ring to go with the $16.25 million contract Assuming the NHL is able to navigate the covid-19 minefield and more or he’s playing on would noise-cancel any complaints. less follow its stated return-to-play timetable, the process of winning a championship could take just about three months, from the start of camp Rorabaugh’s picks (somewhere around July 13) to the awarding of the Cup (maybe early 1. Justin Schultz October). Schultz’s 2019-20 campaign has been nothing short of rotten. First, he Sure, some might affix an asterisk to a 2020 championship, but missed 23 games due to various injuries. Then, he lost his job as the whatever. Players can hop in the fast lane and achieve their life’s goal in right-handed shot on the second defensive pairing to rookie John Marino. a span of maybe 14 weeks. Still, he’s a right-handed defenseman who can command a role on just “There’s a lot to play for,” Penguins coach Mike Sullivan said this week. about any power play. As a pending unrestricted free agent, he will be a “These guys are proud guys. They’re the best players in the world. I think popular man whenever the NHL’s offseason commences. A strong a lot of them see the opportunity in front of them postseason could make potential suitors look past his poor regular season and drive his price up, even if it’s a cost-adjusted market due to “I can only speak for how I feel about our players in Pittsburgh, but in my the NHL’s economy post-coronavirus. conversations with a lot of our players, I know they’re excited to play and I know how much of an opportunity they see in front of them. Now, 2. Matt Murray obviously we’ve got to go out and earn it, but I think that drive and that Even with two Stanley Cup rings, Murray still has plenty of doubters, and motivation to win a Stanley Cup is going to force players into a quick with good reason. Since leading the Penguins to championships in 2016 adjustment process.” and 2017, Murray’s ensuing three seasons have been pockmarked with Winning the Stanley Cup once allows a player to join an exclusive club. injuries as well as inconsistency. He appears to be a safe bet to get the net should the NHL’s postseason begin this summer. A third Stanley Cup Winning the Stanley Cup multiple times shows a different kind of success title would beef up us resume considerably as he approaches restricted level. free agency.

“I think it shows you’re persistent. You’re not satisfied, maybe,” Sidney 3. Conor Sheary Crosby said in 2016. Coming off a 20-goal campaign and a Stanley Cup title in 2016-17, In either case, it can mean a few more zeroes on the paystub. Sheary was signed to a three-year contract with a salary cap hit of $3 million. It’s fair to say he’s failed to live up to even the most modest of With that in mind, beat writer Seth Rorabaugh and former beat writer expectations the past three seasons split between the Penguins and Jonathan Bombulie came up with a list of the five Penguins players with . Reunited on a line with Sidney Crosby, Sheary could the most to gain if they were to win a fast-tracked Stanley Cup this fall. make the most of that assignment and cash in as a pending unrestricted Bombulie’s picks free agent.

1. Patrick Marleau 4. Evan Rodrigues

To preempt a popular discussion point months before it hits the talk-radio Dissatisfied with being a healthy scratch as a member of the Sabres, airwaves, if the Penguins were to win the 2020 Stanley Cup, there’s little Rodrigues bet on himself and requested a trade. He was granted his doubt who Crosby would hand the trophy to first. It’s Marleau. No one in wish and was sent to the Penguins at the trade deadline. Capable of the history of the league has played more games without winning a Cup playing all three forward positions and killing penalties, Rodrigues has (1,723). The whole point of him coming to Pittsburgh was to finally get proved himself extremely useful to the Penguins. As a pending restricted him that darn ring. It may not be Ray Bourque in Colorado territory, but free agent with a hefty $2 million cap hit, he can justify another contract it’s not far off. by filling in wherever he’s needed during a successful playoff run.

2. Jake Guentzel 5. Patrick Marleau

For Crosby, Evgeni Malkin and Kris Letang, the trip from three career Marleau is a rental player trying to cap off his career with a Stanley Cup championships to four would be a short one. Their legacies are already run. No one is under any misconception over why he’s a member of the secure. For Patric Hornqvist, Matt Murray, Bryan Rust et al, the bump Penguins. A championship ring would be a wonderful way to end a from two to three would be equally negligible. They’re already winners. marvelous 22-year career. Is he worthy of the Hockey Hall of Fame at Guentzel, though, wasn’t around for the 2016 title. Going from one Cup this moment? Probably. But a Stanley Cup ring would go a long way to two would prove he is, as Crosby said, not satisfied. The story of how towards him avoiding being stuck in purgatory with the likes of Rod he wouldn’t even have been on the ice for the 2020 playoffs had it not Brind’Amour, Alexander Mogilny and Pierre Turgeon. been for a pandemic is a juicy one too. Tribune Review LOADED: 07.04.2020 3. Tristan Jarry

Jarry and Murray are both restricted free agents after this season. Murray would improve his earning power with a third Cup, but let’s face it. He’s already got two. He’s going to make a lot more than $3.75 million next 1187296 St Louis Blues A planned visit this year was canceled because of the pandemic. “St. Louis is a small and pleasant city,” Maxim said. “Nice people, great

fans and a beautiful city that loves hockey.” Another Barbashev enters NHL's pipeline St. Louisans shouldn’t be offended by Maxim’s depiction of the Gateway to the West as a “small” city; Moscow, after all, has a population of about 12 million. Maxim’s remarks to the Post-Dispatch came via translation, Jim Thomas 4 hrs ago with agent Dan Milstein — who represents both Barbashevs — doing the translating.

Maxim’s knowledge of English is scant. This was evident in the Ivan Barbashev’s picture hangs in Avenir Centre, home of the Moncton Enterprise Center locker room on March 21, 2019 following Ivan’s hat Wildcats, as one of many alums of that junior hockey team to reach the trick against the Red Wings. Maxim just smiled when non-Russian NHL. Following the Canadian Hockey League import draft June 30, the speaking reporters tried to engage in conversation. possibility of another Barbashev photo hanging there now exists. Ivan didn’t have the benefit of a translator when he showed up in That’s because Maxim Barbashev, Ivan’s younger brother, was selected Moncton, New Brunswick, in 2012. by Moncton of the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League. “I spent three years, I had kind of a lifetime there,” Ivan joked. “My first “Ivan asked me to take a picture with his Moncton picture back when I three years in North America. No English there, no nothing. I did pretty was there a few years ago when he played (there),” Maxim said. good there.” Now Maxim is looking forward to a different kind of photo op. Good enough to get his picture on the wall. “He told me soon, he’ll be taking pictures with me,” Ivan said, laughing. Including playoffs, Ivan had 262 points (106 goals, 156 assists) in 200 As NHL players. games over three seasons in Moncton. He made the QMJHL all-rookie team in 2012-13 and still holds the franchise record for most assists as a Yes, there’s another Barbashev in the pipeline. And it’s a similar pipeline rookie (44) and shares the franchise mark for most points in a game (six). — from hometown Moscow, to Moncton in the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League to (hopefully) the NHL for Maxim. A third brother, Not bad for a franchise whose current NHL roster of players includes Sergey, has spent parts of the last nine seasons in the Kontinental Corey Crawford, Brad Marchand, Keith Yandle, David Savard and Conor Hockey League — the world’s second-best pro league. Garland.

So the hockey DNA certainly is strong in the Barbashev family. Maxim Now, the puck’s on Maxim’s stick. said he and Ivan always joke about who’s the better player. They both St Louis Post Dispatch LOADED: 07.04.2020 play a physical style with a high “compete” level.

Ivan gives the nod to Maxim, eight years younger at age 16, and also a forward.

“I’d say he’s probably got more skill,” Ivan said. “I think he’s got better hands. I know he’s a good player. He’s got good vision. Actually, I can’t wait to see him play out there.”

Maxim respectfully disagrees.

“Ivan is an NHL player, he is better now because of all he’s accomplished,” Maxim said. “I will continue to keep working.”

In his third full NHL season, Ivan had tied his personal best for points (26) on 11 goals and 15 assists when play was halted March 12 because of the coronavirus pandemic. He is one of the Blues’ top penalty killers and ranks second on the club in hits (144), trailing only Sammy Blais (155).

For Ivan, chances to see Maxim play live have been few and far between. Ivan has been in North America almost exclusively since he was selected by Moncton first overall in the 2012 import draft. By the time Ivan gets back to Russia in the summer — and he didn’t get back during the NHL coronavirus “pause” — Maxim’s season is done.

But they talk frequently on the phone, with Ivan telling Maxim after the June 30th draft: “This is not youth hockey. You have to prove yourself every night.”

“The last time I saw him play it was maybe three years ago, four years ago,” Ivan said. “But I saw the videos the way he plays.”

Whenever the Barbashev family comes to visit, they have skated together. In Moncton when Ivan was there; in Chicago when he played for the Wolves — then a Blues’ minor-league affiliate; and in St. Louis as a member of the Blues.

Maxim and the Barbashev family made the trek here from Russia for the Stanley Cup Final a year ago.

“It was so special to watch him win the Stanley Cup in front of our whole family,” Maxim said. “It gave me added motivation as well.”

Earlier in that season, they were here when Ivan scored his first NHL hat trick, against Detroit

“It was very cool,” Maxim said. “It is not easy to score hat tricks in the NHL, and I received huge emotions seeing this live.” 1187297 St Louis Blues

Multiple Blues test positive for COVID-19

Jim Thomas 5 hrs ago

Multiple Blues players have tested positive for COVID-19, the Post- Dispatch confirmed Friday evening. The team canceled Phase 2 workouts Friday at Centene Community Ice Center with players informed by text message in the morning that there would be no small-group workouts.

The story was first reported by The Athletic, but confirmed by Post- Dispatch sources.

All that was known Friday night is that more than one Blues player tested positive. It is not believed than any staff members or coaches had tested positive.

The small-group workouts are voluntary, and for the Blues they take place Monday through Friday. So there so there are no workouts scheduled for Saturday or Sunday, per routine. But Phase 2 workouts are scheduled to resume Monday, although at least one Blues player isn’t planning on taking part in Monday’s skating out of concern for the coronavirus.

Via text, general manager Doug Armstrong said any questions related to the coronavirus should be directed to the NHL.

Deputy commissioner Bill Daly via email told the Post-Dispatch: “We don't intend to comment on this situation specifically, but I will confirm our view that the club has taken all appropriate steps in the circumstances, and remains vigilant following our procedures and health and safety protocols."

There are strict protocols for players during Phase 2 workouts, including daily temperature checks and daily checks for symptoms. Players are tested regularly, and obviously must test negative before they’re allowed on the ice at Centene. Under league guidelines, players must wear protective masks entering and leaving the facility and practice social distancing.

But once the players leave the building, they are free to do as they please, and go where they want _ although the team has stressed the importance of minimizing risk by sheltering-in-place, avoiding crowds, wearing masks, etc.

More and more Blues have been showing up to Centene to skate as the anticipated startup to training camp and a resumption of play nears. Armstrong told the Post-Dispatch earlier this week than two-thirds of the team is now in St. Louis and that he expects the full squad on hand by the middle of next week.

St Louis Post Dispatch LOADED: 07.04.2020 1187298 St Louis Blues

Sources: Blues cancel practices due to ‘multiple’ COVID-19 positive tests

By Jeremy Rutherford and Scott Burnside Jul 3, 2020

The St. Louis Blues canceled practices at the team’s facility because of “multiple” positive tests for COVID-19, sources have told The Athletic.

The Blues used the ice at Centene Community Ice Center in Maryland Heights, Mo., on Thursday, but did not hold their Phase 2 workouts as scheduled on Friday. They would not have practiced as a team Saturday or Sunday, but the facility has been deemed closed for any individual players who planned to train there over the weekend. The club is expected to resume practices on Monday.

The facility – which has three sheets of ice and private dressing rooms for the Blues – was being used by the public on Friday.

The names of the players infected were not released and The Athletic’s policy is to not identify athletes unless the team or player confirms the positive test for COVID-19.

As part of the Return to Play protocol, the NHL allowed teams to begin skating in groups of six players at one time on June 8. The Blues waited until June 22 to open their facility.

On June 23, the league increased the number of players who could participate in one group session to 12. A source estimated that two-thirds of the Blues’ roster was skating at the facility this week.

On June 19, the Tampa Bay Lightning shut down their practice facility after three players tested positive. The Lightning quarantined those players, cleaned the facility and re-opened five days later. That day the NHL announced it would provide weekly updates on the number of positive tests. It is the league’s policy to not provide names or team identification in those reports.

On Monday, the NHL announced that 15 players, among the 250-plus players who had participated in Phase 2 up to that point, tested positive for COVID-19. In addition to those 15 players, the league was aware of an additional 11 players training outside of the Phase 2 protocol who had tested positive.

The league announced that Phase 3, or training camp, is scheduled to begin on July 10, although recent reports suggest that date may be pushed back because the players have not yet voted to approve Phase 3 and 4 of the return to play.

Doug Armstrong, the Blues’ president of hockey operations and general manager, said by text that the “NHL handles all talk related to (COVID- 19).”

Messages to the NHL were not returned on Friday.

The Athletic LOADED: 07.04.2020 1187299 Tampa Bay Lightning Depending on revenue levels, after this bridge labor deal — being negotiated as part of the league’s return-to-play plan — there probably would be another attempt to fix the escrow system permanently,

What is the NHL escrow system, and why is it relevant right now? Tampa Bay Times LOADED: 07.04.2020

DIANA C. NEARHOS

The NHL and NHLPA need to address how owners and players split revenue before play can resume.

According to his massive contract that kicked in this season, Nikita Kucherov is due $12 million. But the Lightning’s star wing won’t see that whole amount — and he wouldn’t have even without the NHL’s shutdown because of the coronavirus.

In addition to typical deductions such as taxes, union fees and agent fees, a chunk of all NHL players’ paychecks is held in escrow each season.

Under terms of the collective bargaining agreement that ended the 2012- 13 lockout, owners and players divide hockey-related revenue 50-50 each season, and in case player salaries would exceed that split, a certain percentage is withheld in escrow.

After the season, total revenue is calculated, and if the league is not at its 50 percent share, it gets escrow money to make up the difference. Anything left over is returned to the players.

It has never worked out that players are the ones owed money back from the owners because of the way revenue is forecast and thus the salary cap is set.

In 2013-14, the first full season under the current collective bargaining agreement, 14.7 percent of the players’ salaries was withheld, and at the end of the season, the players got 3.8 percent back, according to hockey statistics website Hockey Graphs, a total salary loss of 10.9 percent.

Last season, 12.9 percent was withheld and 3.25 percent refunded, according to ESPN, a total salary loss of 6.65 percent.

This season, after continually deferring their final paychecks, the players allocated their entire checks toward the escrow holdings, according to the Gavin Group, which specializes in hockey wealth issues. That brought the total withholdings from 14.00 percent to 19.55.

Predictably, players are not huge fans of this system.

“For nearly two decades, the players have protected the owners income with escrow, including throughout this pandemic crisis, even as owners’ equity continues to grow exponentially,” Rangers star forward Artemi Panarin posted on Instagram last month. “It’s time to fix the escrow.”

Fixing it might be a tall order given the league’s financial state — an estimated loss of between $450 million and $1 billion this season, depending on whether the season is concluded. The plan is to resume it this month.

But addressing the system and the weight it would put on the players to account for that revenue loss are part of what the league and players association are negotiating in their current talks for a new labor deal. The current deal is scheduled to expire in 2022.

A reported proposed solution would be temporary.

The escrow percentage and salary cap would be capped rather than linked to hockey-related revenue. The salary cap would be $81.5 million next season and remain there until revenue hits $4.8 billion and then calculated using the numbers from two years prior, Canadian TV network Sportsnet reported Friday.

Escrow would be capped at 20 percent next season, then between 14 and 18 percent the season after. It would go down to 10 percent in 2022- 23 and 6 percent for the remainder of the new labor deal, which would carry through 2025-26 with a provision for a one-year extension, Sportsnet said.

An expected boost to revenue (a new contract for U.S. broadcast rights and expansion Seattle entering the league in 2021-22) with a fixed salary cap could result in a dropping escrow payment. But that assumes typical revenue from ticket sales returns to pre-pandemic amounts. 1187300 Tampa Bay Lightning “I think the work ethic and everything was normal,” said Herta, who finished seventh. “In that sense, everything felt the same.”

So it shouldn’t be a surprise that the early results from racing’s top two What NFL, NHL, MLB and NCAA can learn from auto racing without fans series have looked about the same, too, no matter how empty the stands have been.

IndyCar’s winningest active driver, Scott Dixon, won his series’ opener. MATT BAKER Nine of NASCAR’s 11 Cup races since the pandemic have been won by four of its biggest stars: former series champions Kevin Harvick, Brad

Keselowski and Martin Truex, plus three-time Daytona 500 champion We talked to four drivers across three series who have competed at fan- Denny Hamlin. NASCAR’s top two rising stars, Chase Elliott and Ryan less events. They say it's eerie, unearthly and maybe decreases the Blaney, split the other two events. pressure. Tampa Bay Times LOADED: 07.04.2020 The scene at the Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg in March was hard to comprehend: Cars zooming past row after row of empty seats at what is usually one of the area’s biggest sporting events of the year.

Three and a half months later, that surreal morning downtown seems more prophetic than apocalyptic. It was the first glimpse of sports’ new reality in the COVID-19 era.

As the NFL, NHL, NBA, MLB and NCAA prepare to return in front of limited, if not eliminated, crowds, they’ll be following the lead of auto racing — the last major U.S. sport to stop because of the pandemic and the first one to restart. Which means teams across the area and state can all learn something from the experience of Kyle Kirkwood, one of the 77 racers who drove at the fan-free Grand Prix (before the three-day event was called off halfway through Day 1).

“It takes a little bit of the pressure away,” said Kirkwood, a 21-year-old Jupiter native who competes in IndyCar’s top feeder series, Indy Lights.

As pandemic persists, could tailgating be a template for safe social partying?

Will fans lose connection to the game while watching from afar?

What happens to the home-field advantage without fans?

Tom Brady is the hottest ticket in the NFL, but who can watch?

Unlike athletes in stick-and-ball sports, drivers can’t see the crowds or hear their roars when they’re competing. Glancing into the stands at 200 mph could lead to a catastrophic mistake.

But racers do notice fans before they strap into their cars. Interactions at autograph signings, meet-and-greets and a jam-packed starting grid help build the intensity before the engines start.

“I think that’s one of the things that I realized the most, is that fans are what bring the atmosphere,” Hillsborough High alumnus Aric Almirola, a veteran driver in NASCAR’s top Cup Series. “They bring the electricity of the event…

“It certainly emotionally affects us when we walk out to our race cars and there’s nobody there live to watch.”

Indy Lights driver David Malukas said the lack of buzz before the practice of the season in St. Petersburg was unlike anything he’d ever experienced. He handled it well; he was the quickest driver of the session.

“It didn’t even feel like a practice or a race or anything,” Malukas said. “(It was like) we grabbed the trailer, we went around the corner to a local track and just started doing some laps because we wanted to.”

Belleair resident Colton Herta didn’t get to experience the eeriness in St. Petersburg because the Grand Prix ended before the first IndyCar session. But the the youngest race winner in series history did feel it firsthand last month when his season began at Texas Motor Speedway.

He called it “unearthly.”

Normally, the fan-driven excitement starts when he arrives at the track and peaks around the national anthem.

“It kind of hypes you up or adds a little bit of pressure,” Herta said.

With no fans, there was no extra energy. And with no extra energy, Herta felt no added pressure — only what he puts on himself on behalf of his team and his sponsors.

As weird as it felt before the green flag, Herta said the race itself felt like any other. The drive to win was no different than usual. 1187301 Tampa Bay Lightning Lightning forward Carter Verhaeghe said he played games in empty rinks many times as a kid.

“I feel like we could maybe get used to it,” he said. “But the fans being Do athletes believe playing in empty venues will impact their there is definitely something irreplaceable and hopefully we can get back performance? to that as soon as possible.”

And Rays outfielder Austin Meadows likens it to his first days in minor- league ball, playing Gulf Coast League games on the back fields of EDUARDO A. ENCINA spring training complexes, early afternoon games in sweltering summer heat that offer little refuge for the those who choose to watch in the

bleachers behind a backstop. Without fans, players prepare for a return to sports’ biggest stages with “It’ll definitely be interesting,” Meadows said. “I have gotten a taste of that no in-house audience, or at least a limited one. in rookie ball in the GCL, 110 degrees in the summer heat, no fans, only You often hear professional athletes say that they play for their fans. But my girlfriend at the time (now his wife). It’s definitely going to be some as the sports world returns to play amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, getting used to. I think we’re at the point now with no fans or with fans or professional athletes likely will return to cavernous empty stadiums, their whatnot, we’re going to find a way. fans kept out to prevent the spread of the coronavirus. “I think guys are hungry and they’re going to want to be out there, to see All of Tampa Bay’s pro sports teams are expected to resume games over each other and to play with each other every day. I don’t know if its going the next few months — from the Rowdies on July 11 to the Bucs on Aug. to be too much of an adjustment, but it’ll definitely be a little bit weird.” 22 (preseason), with the Rays and Lightning somewhere in between. Staff writers Marc Topkin and Diana C. Nearhos contributed to this They’re all so used to playing in front of fans. At home, the cheers report. provide adrenaline. On the road, there’s always a competitive dynamic Tampa Bay Times LOADED: 07.04.2020 with a hostile crowd. The anticipation of a game-altering moment felt seat to seat in the stands carries over onto the field.

So what will happen when performing on the biggest stage comes without an in-house audience?

“I think the first game is going to be really weird for everyone,” said Lightning defenseman Kevin Shattenkirk. “It’s going to be just strange to think there are no fans in the stands. Even as kids, we’re used to having our parents in the stands, cheering us on, and you hear your name here or there. That, I think, is going to be the strangest thing: Not hearing all the noise during the game and not having that cat-and-mouse game with fans, whether you’re home or away, to help sway the momentum. After the first period, first two periods, we’ll all get used to it. Obviously the fact that we’re playing meaningful games right away will help you get over that.”

Still, players believe they might have to find new ways to get hyped.

“It does take a lot of the heart out of the game,” said Rowdies midfielder Zach Steinberger. “But with that being said, this is something we might have to do. And even if the fans can’t be there, just being able to follow the club will just have to suffice right now, and we’ll tap into that energy because we know they’ll be following us. We’ll have to try to manufacture that energy ourselves but we know our fans will be supporting us even if we can’t see or hear them.”

“It’s going to be like a trial run,” Rays right-hander Tyler Glasnow added. “Guys are going to have to get that internal adrenaline going. It could benefit some people, too. Maybe some guys who get amped up, maybe the slow pace will help them out. I think people just have to wait and see what happens because this is the situation we’re dealing with. Regardless of how you feel, you’ve got to go out and play.”

Bucs offensive tackle Donovan Smith suggested the lack of crowd noise could help some players, especially younger players who are still getting adjusted to the NFL game.

“Who knows at the end of the day?” said Smith, who played in front of nearly 107,000 fans in college at Penn State. “It could be a blessing or a curse. You’ve got guys who get distracted by crowd noise and guys who might shine with it. It can go either way. Trying to look at it positively, it’s an opportunity for a lot of people to really focus on what you need to focus on without having any extra (noise). You can just go out there and play.”

When players think about competing without fans, it brings them back to their first days playing sports. Rowdies defender Forrest Lasso thinks back to being a kid kicking a ball around in his backyard by himself.

“The first time I started playing was without fans,” he said. “As I grew, there were fans in the stands and they add a great thrill and energy. The professional game has so much energy, home-field advantage, away fans, chants, acoustics ... there’s a lot of elements to the game that will be slightly altered. But in terms of mentality and approach for a player, for us I don’t think it’s going to be anything different.” 1187302 Toronto Maple Leafs When she finally got to speak to Mr. Ballard, her opening salvo was reported as, “We’ve got something in common. We’ve both been to jail.” She had served four months of a two-year sentence after pleading guilty to committing fraud and perjury. She was alleged to have conspired with Divorcee Yolanda Ballard had a stormy romance with Maple Leafs owner a lawyer to alter the will of an elderly man. Harold Ballard Story continues below

Mr. Ballard had been convicted of theft and fraud in 1972 for diverting Susan Ferrier MacKay money from the accounts of Maple Leaf Gardens, to his own, for personal use like cottage renovations. At the time, the Gardens was a Published 1 day ago publicly traded company with Mr. Ballard owning 80 per cent. He was Updated July 2, 2020 sentenced to nine years in Millhaven Institution, but was out on parole after a year. Perhaps for the bravado of her introduction alone, Mr. Ballard finally took an interest. The divorcee was soon ensconced in his Maple Leaf Gardens apartment living a life of wealth and glamour. Yolanda Ballard, the late-in-life companion of irascible sports magnate Harold Ballard, was a potent addition to a life already enmeshed in “There was a time in Toronto when the name ‘Yolanda’ didn’t require a controversy. Their relationship, set against a backdrop of fraud charges surname,” said Bob Stellick, a former business manager for the Maple and jail time, included the scandal of a physical assault and animosity Leafs. “She achieved a type of fame, or perhaps it was infamy.” between Ms. Ballard and Mr. Ballard’s adult children. Their ongoing drama made for compelling copy in prominent newspapers including the As the tycoon’s health declined, Ms. Ballard devoted herself to his needs, Los Angeles Times. pushing him around in a wheelchair and doing her best to make sure he adhered to a diabetic-friendly diet. The late sportswriter Milt Dunnell, a Ms. Ballard, who was divorced, wanted to marry the widowed Mr. Ballard, long-time friend of Mr. Ballard, once said, “She is completely attentive who owned Maple Leaf Gardens and the Toronto Maple Leafs hockey and Hal likes being with her.” franchise, but he refused. In 1988, after they had lived together for several years, she found a creative solution, circumventing the marriage Ms. Ballard rarely missed a Leafs home game and would sometimes issue by legally changing her surname from MacMillan to Ballard. surprise Mr. Ballard by showing up unannounced at his hotel when the team was on the road. If she encountered Mr. Ballard’s bluster, and the Despite Mr. Ballard’s disingenuous assertion that he was neither rich nor epithet “dingbat,” she laughed them off knowing a seat at the game famous, Ms. Ballard enjoyed the perks of him being both. On the arm of would always be found for her. her powerful companion, the petite blond woman, almost three decades his junior, found herself exchanging pleasantries with the Queen, former In 1989, things came to a head between Ms. Ballard and Mr. Ballard’s prime minister Pierre Trudeau, and other VIPs from various walks of life. son Bill. When Ms. Ballard attempted to escort him from his father’s Opera superstar Luciano Pavarotti, who performed at Maple Leaf apartment, Bill was alleged to have punched and kicked her. She Gardens, was honoured at a private dinner hosted by the Ballards. Mr. charged him with assault. In the LA Times, the trial was described as Ballard was indifferent to celebrity but Ms. Ballard dined out on stories “featuring hilarious court antics including Yolanda’s dentures nearly about the large tenor wanting to eat everyone’s dessert. falling out, crying, histrionics and an almost palpable acrimony from all sides. Most of the principals made faces during the testimony of others,” Mr. Ballard, a diabetic who underwent a quadruple heart bypass, died in writer Julie Cart observed. 1990. Maclean’s magazine reported that his three children, Bill, Mary Elizabeth and Harold Jr., viewed their father’s partner as an opportunist. During her testimony, Ms. Ballard described Mr. Ballard’s children as The Globe and Mail’s Dave Shoalts wrote at the time, “Because of the “maggots and vultures who cannot wait for this man to die.” Bill Ballard conflict between Yolanda Ballard and Harold’s family, there will be a characterized his father’s companion to arresting officers as “human private family funeral on Tuesday to which Yolanda is not invited. garbage.” He was found guilty of assault and received a $500 fine. Sources say the family is concerned that Yolanda Ballard would use the Two years before his death, Harold Ballard ran notices in Toronto papers occasion to stage one of her notorious public scenes.” renouncing any debts, charges, or expenses incurred by, or on behalf of, Ms. Ballard, her family and friends were allowed a one-hour visitation Yolanda Ballard. He told his lawyer he wanted her gone from his life. with the casket in the directors’ lounge at Maple Leaf Gardens before The thrust and parry between two magnetic, forceful personalities might members of the public were allowed to pay their respects. have been part of a game that ultimately bound the couple to each other. Ms. Ballard successfully contested Mr. Ballard’s will. Her yearly allotment Ms. Ballard’s death notice, written by her family, noted that she always of $50,000 was replaced with a lump sum, the amount of which was not referred to Harold Ballard as the love of her life and that, “sadly,” she made public. She was granted custody of Mr. Ballard’s dog TC Puck. seemed unable to get past his death. She also received a share in the family cottage as well as two lifetime Globe And Mail LOADED: 07.04.2020 seats to Maple Leafs games. After her settlement, Ms. Ballard drifted from the limelight. She was 87 when she died in her sleep on June 3 at the home of her long-time caregiver in Toronto. She leaves her children, Ana and Bill MacMillan, and a granddaughter.

Yolanda Anna Babic was born on Jan. 3, 1933, in Fort William, Ont., to Slovakian immigrants. She worked as a telephone operator, then as a title searcher for a Toronto law firm. Her first husband, Bill MacMillan, was a lawyer. The couple had two children before her husband filed for divorce.

Son Bill MacMillan has a childhood memory of his mother driving him and his sister to a university football game. When a drunken student jumped into their gold Cadillac demanding a ride, she reached under the front seat, pulled out a pellet gun and, using colourful language, told the student to get out “or you’re going to have a hole I can put a football through.” Describing his mother as a “five-foot little nothing,” Mr. MacMillan said, “She knew what to do at the right time.”

In 1983, Yolanda MacMillan set her sights on 79-year-old Mr. Ballard. She became a familiar sight at the Gardens, hanging around hoping to speak to him. In The Globe, William Houston wrote, “Not knowing who she was, he refused to see her. But she persisted. She waited in his office, slipped notes under his door and knowing he had a sweet tooth, brought him pastries. She staked out his car in the arena basement.” 1187303 Toronto Maple Leafs

NHL's complicated new CBA not done yet

Lance Hornby

Published:July 3, 2020

Updated:July 3, 2020 5:53 PM EDT

These aren’t the best of times for thrashing out the fine print of a new collective bargaining agreement — and thus it is taking extra effort for the NHL and its players association to sign.

So it now appears the multi-year deal, which is tied to this summer’s hoped-for playoff tournament and COVID-19 issues, might take until early next week to settle. A tentative agreement on major changes is in place, but specific details,A and the critical vote on the whole package by the entire union membership, is still needed. Two-thirds of the league board of governors must be on board, too.

The document also covers the final stages of the league’s Return To Play plan, such as approving the health and safety guidelines in the hub cities of Edmonton and Toronto. Adoption of a flat salary cap for the next two seasons, a temporary 10% cut in salaries next year and a series of reduced escrow for players from a 20% hit next year is also being examined. The players will get a notable concession from the owners, a return to the Olympics in 2022 and 2026.

Critical dates for next season, such as free agent shopping day and the entry draft, are also being clarified.

On Friday, Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman reported the CBA extension could go to 2025-26 or longer, with some interesting modifications to trade rules. They could see no-move and no-trade clauses go with a player who has consented to lift one of them to his next club, even if the clause has not been activated and even if the new team has not agreed to continue it.

For the tournament teams, Friedman added there will be restrictions on the number of people allowed in the hotel lobby and on elevators and each player will get his own room. Tournament teams are expected for training camps starting July 10 and later report to their Eastern or Western hub city.

Toronto Star LOADED: 07.04.2020 1187304 Toronto Maple Leafs Montreal Canadiens: Won their last two playoff series on Toronto ice, albeit more than 40 years ago. But this team is definitely a dark horse, not a dynasty.

Visiting NHL hub teams have T.O. ties Welcome home: F Jake Evans, F Nick Suzuki (London), D Ben Chiarot (Hamilton), D Victor Mete.

Ex-Leafs: Assistant coaches Kirk Muller, Luke Richardson, director of Lance Hornby player development Rob Ramage.

Published:July 3, 2020 Keep your eye on: G Carey Price. Sixty playoff games of experience and overdue for a series’ win. Updated:July 3, 2020 4:17 PM EDT New York Islanders: Let’s assume former captain John Tavares wouldn’t

like his Leafs not advancing while his old team wins again in the first A bubbly welcome to Toronto! round — on Toronto ice.

If the Eastern table of the NHL’s proposed playoff tournament goes Welcome home: F Josh Bailey, F Casey Cizikas, F Cal Clutterbuck ahead — and health should come first — these 11 teams will be stabled (Welland), D Michael Dal Colle, D Adam Pelech. around the Hogtown Hub later this month for qualifying and round-robin Ex-Leafs: GM Lou Lamoriello, F Matt Martin, F, Leo Komarov, assistant games. Some skaters were born here, played here for the Maple Leafs, coach Jim Hiller, goalie coach Piero Greco. or are no strangers to Scotiabank Arena. But don’t expect seeing them face-to-face for autographs as they’ll be in a COVID-19 quarantine Keep your eye on: F Brock Nelson, a team-high 26 goals. Team scoring bubble encompassing the practice rink, hotel and playing rink. No fans dropped off in the second round last year after New York beat the Pens. will be at SBA. New York Rangers: Last time they were in Toronto for a playoff game? The best-of-five qualifying series are Leafs-Columbus, Pittsburgh- Try 1971 when they beat the Leafs in the series Bernie Parent’s mask Montreal, Rangers-Carolina and Islanders-Florida. Meanwhile, the top ended up over the glass at MSG. four points-percentage finishers at the halt of play March 12 — Boston, Tampa Bay, Washington and Philadelphia — will play a mini-event for Welcome home: F Phillip Di Giuseppe, F Michael Haley, F Greg McKegg round-one seeding. (St. Thomas), F Ryan Strome, D Brendan Smith.

Here’s a look at each club’s T.O. ties, with GTA-born players and Keep your eye on: Artemi Panarin. The Hart Trophy candidate is a vocal regional reps, keeping in mind rosters are yet to be finalized: advocate for COVID-19 safety.

Boston Bruins: Coach Bruce Cassidy has already mused about his Philadelphia Flyers: An eventful post-season history here going back to team’s comfort level in T.O. for big games (5-4 against the Leafs in the wars of the mid 1970s. Still a huge orange and black following in playoffs since 2013) and what an oddity it would be should they these parts. somehow meet for a third straight year. Welcome home: F Travis Konecny (London), F Scott Laughton Welcome home: F Nick Ritchie (Orangeville). (Oakville), F Chris Stewart, G Brian Elliott.

Ex-Leafs: G Tuukka Rask. Ex-Leafs: F James van Riemsdyk, Alyn McCauley (pro scout).

Keep your eye on: Brad Marchand. Boston’s licking time bomb would Keep your eye on: G Carter Hart. Without a playoff win since 2012, definitely deserve isolation for a lot more than two minutes. Philly’s goaltending will be under scrutiny.

Carolina Hurricanes: Please, no cheering for both goalies to get hurt Pittsburgh Penguins: Can’t believe it has been more than 20 years since again so local legend David Ayres can jump off his Zamboni into uniform. Garry Valk’s OT goal in Toronto’s series win. And will their post-victory Storm Surge resonate in an empty rink? Welcome home: F Jared McCann (Stratford), F Evan Rodrigues, F Welcome home: F Warren Foegele, F Brock McGinn (Fergus), F Justin Brandon Tanev. Williams (Cobourg), D Dougie Hamilton. Ex-Leafs: GM Jim Rutherford. Ex-Leafs: D Jake Gardiner, G James Reimer. Keep your eye on: Sidney Crosby, who has 44 points in 34 playoff games Keep your eye on: Gardiner and Reimer. Especially if they’re in a against Canadian teams. deciding game. Tampa Bay Lightning: These boys have waited a long time for playoff Columbus Blue Jackets: The first ever playoff series between the Leafs redemption after a shocking first-round exit 15 months ago. Switched to a and Jackets is on tap, but they have a notable paper trade history, Toronto shade of blue a couple of years ago after ex-GM Steve Yzerman Nathan Horton for David Clarkson. Will the Jackets request their ear- got nostalgic for the Leafs-Wings rivalry. splitting goal cannon be hauled up Bay St. for their two home games? Welcome home: F Anthony Cirelli, F Barclay Goodrow, F Steve Stamkos, Welcome home: F Josh Anderson, F Boone Jenner (Dorchester), F F Mitchell Stevens (Peterborough), F Carter Verhaeghe, G Curtis Devin Shore, D Scott Harrington (Kingston). McElhinney (London)

Ex-Leafs: Harrington, assistant GM Basil McRae. Ex-Leafs: D Luke Schenn, Verhaeghe (draft pick).

Keep your eye on: Coach John Tortorella. He’s mellowed, but won’t be Keep your eye on: The Stamkos one-timer, whether there’s family in the afraid to ruffle feathers on his team or have some fun with the Toronto stands or not. media. Washington Capitals: Their town could use the positivity of another Florida Panthers: No team should be more adept at playing in hot Stanley Cup parade. summer conditions. They’re also facing eight years of failure to qualify or Welcome home: F Tom Wilson. get past the first round. Ex Leaf: F Richard Panik. Welcome home: F Mike Hoffman (Kitchener), D Josh Brown (London), D Riley Stillman (Peterborough). Keep your on: F Alexander Ovechkin. The Great Eight has 126 playoff points in 128 playoff games, with 76 points in 47 regular-season/playoff Ex-Leafs: Coach Joel Quenneville, assistant Mike Kitchen, F Dominic games against Toronto, much of that at SBA. Toninato (draft choice), D Anton Stralman, director of player personnel Bryan McCabe. Toronto Star LOADED: 07.04.2020 Keep your eye on: G Sergei Bobrovsky. ‘Bob’ and his play can’t be a side show. 1187305 Toronto Maple Leafs “And he is also willing to learn, and get better and push himself on the things we were working on with him defensively and details and habits. As he gets more consistent, he will become a better pro.

Duszak's confidence, solid finish with Marlies result in fine intro to pro “He didn’t feel as though (the AHL) was above him. He knew he hockey belonged.”

Duszak certainly hasn’t been idle during the pause. He has skated a half- dozen times or so but for the most part has been in the gym, Terry Koshan concentrating on increasing his upper-body and core strength.

Published:July 3, 2020 “Being able to fend off those bigger guys and guys who weigh more than me, because I am kind of a small guy, is what I’ve been working on,” Updated:July 3, 2020 6:39 PM EDT Duszak said. “Being able to box guys out in front, pin them to walls and being able to separate plays quicker (has been the focus).”

Joe Duszak fits the Maple Leafs’ style. All of it is being done with eye to using a strong initial season in professional hockey as a foundation once the AHL resumes. After a productive first season of professional hockey, the 22-year-old defenceman knows it’s on his shoulders to make the notion of one day “It was a good stepping stone in the right direction,” Duszak said of his pulling on a Leafs sweater a reality. 2019-20 year. “I thought I played pretty well, going down (to Newfoundland) and coming up and being able to stay up was pretty “Really, it’s in my hands,” Duszak said. “You have to be able to play, successful, so I did a good job with that. perform every night, and I think my offensive side from the red line in is there to play in the NHL. “There’s something to build off, but I would not say I was satisfied.”

“It’s the red line back to our goal that I should really focus on. If I’m able THE FILE ON DUSZAK to do that and tighten my gaps and play a defensive style where I’m not AGE: 22 (July 22, 1997)) hurting the team every time I’m on the ice, then I feel like I would be able to play in the NHL.” HOMETOWN: Franklin Square, N.Y.

Signed by the Leafs to a two-year future entry-level contract in March HEIGHT: 5-foot-10, WEIGHT: 185 pounds 2019 — following his third and final season at Mercyhurst College, when he was a finalist for the Hobey Baker Award — Duszak developed into a POSITION: Defence, SHOOTS: Right sound performer for the Toronto Marlies by the time the coronavirus DRAFTED: Undrafted pandemic halted play in March, recording 16 points in his last 15 games. THE SKINNY: Had a season-high four assists in a Marlies win against This after Duszak had 35 points in 34 games with Newfoundland of the Belleville on Feb. 15 … Played in two regular-season games in 2018-19 ECHL prior to making the full-time move to the Marlies. and four playoff games that spring after signing with Toronto … In final Duszak didn’t require much of a runway to make a transition to the pace season at Mercyhurst, had 47 points in 37 games and was named of play in the American Hockey League, finishing with 18 points (three Atlantic Hockey Player of the Year and Atlantic Hockey Best goals and 15 assists) in 23 games for the Marlies. Among Marlies Defenceman. defencemen, only Timothy Liljegren, with 30 points in 40 games, had Toronto Star LOADED: 07.04.2020 more than Duszak.

The Leafs, and by extension the Marlies, want possession and a energetic offence to push play, and defencemen who can ably be part of that system and make proper decisions are valued.

That’s how Duszak has played the game for several years, and for Marlies coach Greg Moore, a certain rookie would come to mind whenever Duszak’s instincts kicked in.

“I had the privilege of coaching (Vancouver Canucks star rookie defenceman) Quinn Hughes when he was at the (U.S.) national program and Joe reminds me a lot of him in terms of style of play and how he approaches the game,” Moore said. “He has that rover mentality. We want our D up on the rush, we want our D active in the offensive zone.

“Joe was filling some big shoes with (Rasmus) Sandin and Liljegren being up (with the Leafs). Just how dynamic he plays, he brought a lot of those elements to us.”

Duszak grew up on Long Island and a five-minute drive from Nassau Coliseum, the New York Islanders’ home for decades, and for many of his formative hockey years was coached by Mike Bracco, the father of Marlies teammate Jeremy Bracco. Among childhood teammates with Duszak and Bracco were defencemen Charlie McAvoy of the Boston Bruins and Adam Fox of the New York Rangers, and playing as part of a talented group put a strut in Duszak’s step that never wavered.

Confidence? Not an issue.

“A bunch of guys from Long Island have that same swagger,” Duszak said. “Jeremy’s dad taught us to be confident with the puck, make the right plays. I just grew up with that.”

Moore never had to nudge Duszak to get him more involved in the play. And Duszak quickly became a solid piece on the power play, picking up eight points while Toronto had a man advantage.

“One of his best attributes is he has ice in his veins,” Moore said. “He doesn’t feel like the moments of the game are too big for him. He is confident in who he is and what he is able to do. 1187306 Vegas Golden Knights

Silver Knights season tickets go for as low as $10

By David Schoen

July 3, 2020 - 12:38 PM

Tickets to the inaugural season of the Henderson Silver Knights will cost as low as $10. If you want to pound on the glass, though, it will cost a lot more.

The Golden Knights’ new American Hockey League affiliate sent an email to prospective season ticket holders this week laying out a range of pricing options for seats at Orleans Arena.

Prices in general seating range from $10 in the “Lucky Section” to $50 in the lower bowl “Silver Horseshoe” section. Seats in the end section behind the net go for $18 to $22, while blue line tickets cost $30 to $39 and center ice tickets cost $40 or $48.

For the dedicated fan who wants to splurge a little more, glass seats go from $79 in row 2 to $99 in the front row.

Season ticket holders were notified by email of their in-person appointment at Orleans Arena to make seat selections or can make alternative arrangements with the Silver Knights if they are unable to be present.

Prior to checking in, fans must sign an assumption of risk and release and waiver. A temperature check also will be conducted and face coverings are required throughout the seat selection event.

LAS VEGAS REVIEW JOURNAL LOADED: 07.04.2020 1187307 Vegas Golden Knights netminders through expansion. That’s because Elvis Merzlikins will be ineligible to be selected by Seattle, allowing Columbus to use its lone goalie protection on Joonas Korpisalo.

Five potential Seattle expansion goalies Vegas could target via trade There are other teams with dominant goalie duos that you’ll notice are also missing from this list, like Dallas and Boston. That’s due to the contract situations of those goalies being up in the air. Stars backup Anton Khudobin is set to hit free agency this offseason, so it’s tough to By Jesse Granger Jul 3, 2020 project if Dallas will still have him and Ben Bishop when the 2020-21 trade deadline comes around. In Boston, Tuukka Rask and Jaroslav Halak are unrestricted free agents during the offseason of the expansion This week at The Athletic, beat writers for NHL teams around the league draft. attempted to predict what protection lists will look like for the Seattle Expansion Draft in summer of 2021. But there are still plenty of situations out there that Vegas may be able to use to its advantage. Here are five goalies who could be available for It was a fun exercise, ending with Eric Duhatschek’s Seattle mock draft trade, based on the protected lists submitted by each of our writers. 4.0, projecting which players the NHL’s newest franchise will select from each of the other 30 teams. 1. Thatcher Demko

Seattle will make only 30 selections, because the Vegas Golden Knights The Canucks have an outstanding goalie tandem constructed of veteran are exempt from the expansion draft. When the organization entered the Jacob Markstrom, who has improved to become one of the most valuable league, and owner Bill Foley paid the $500 million expansion fee, part of players on the team over the last two seasons, and 24-year-old backup the agreement was the team would be exempt from the draft, and Foley Thatcher Demko, who has succeeded at every level of hockey since would forgo his percentage of Seattle’s expansion fee. Vancouver drafted him with the 36th pick of the 2014 draft, and projects as a future starting goalie. That’s great news for the Golden Knights for obvious reasons. The first being that they won’t have to surrender a player to Seattle, but it could Markstrom is slated to become an unrestricted free agent this summer, also provide Vegas with even further benefits. Because teams are setting but the sides are expected to be motivated to come to an agreement. up their rosters to lessen the impact of losing a player to expansion, Vancouver could try to work some magic with its structuring of Vegas could use its exempt status to acquire a player or two before the Markstom’s deal that would dissuade Seattle from selecting him, allowing 2020-21 trade deadline. the Canucks to protect Demko, but the most likely scenario is that Demko would be exposed for Seattle. That’s what happened in our mock draft The NHL has already stated publicly that it won’t allow teams to use 4.0, and Duhatschek unsurprisingly selected Demko for Seattle. Vegas to circumvent the expansion draft. It won’t be easy to complete a trade like this within the division, but “I don’t see that happening, they’re just not part of this expansion,” NHL Vegas could potentially offer Vancouver enough for Demko at next year’s deputy commissioner Bill Daly said in 2019. “Obviously, we’ll make sure deadline to pry him away. If the Canucks were willing to listen to offers, that Vegas isn’t used in the process by other clubs to circumvent the Demko could be Vegas’ best option to secure its goaltending past Fleury. purpose of intent of the expansion draft rules, but I don’t anticipate that happening.’’ Demko was NHL Central Scouting’s top-ranked goalie in the 2014 draft class, and since then he’s done nothing but improve his stock. He That means teams won’t be allowed to “park” players in Vegas and then completed a stellar collegiate career at Boston College where he posted trade for them back after the expansion draft is over. The NHL will be a .928 save percentage in 98 games for the Golden Eagles, then proved keeping a close eye on all transactions leading up to the expansion draft, himself with two very good seasons with the AHL’s Utica Comets. especially those including the Golden Knights. This season the 6-foot-4 netminder made 27 appearances for the But there are more ambiguous paths for the Golden Knights to take that Canucks, looked confident in net and continued to improve throughout could benefit their organization without blatantly undermining Seattle’s the year. Not only would he provide Vegas with its goalie of the future, expansion. It only works in certain situations, but there will be teams but Demko is also only making $1.05 million per season, and will be a willing to trade players at next season’s deadline in order to get restricted free agent in 2021-22, making him a very affordable option. something for the player instead of losing them in the expansion draft for nothing. I’ll admit it may be a stretch to suggest Vancouver trades its prized goalie prospect to a strong division rival, but if Vegas makes a good enough The most obvious position to take advantage of this is goaltender, where offer and the Canucks can’t find another way out of losing him for teams can only protect one player. Teams with multiple quality nothing, they may not have a choice. netminders could be looking to trade them for assets before losing them to expansion. Most teams won’t be able to exploit it, because by adding a 2. Matt Murray goalie to their roster they create the same issue, and could potentially Here we go again… lose one during expansion. However, Vegas can hold two quality goalies with no such issues. Vegas acquired Fleury from Pittsburgh in a trade to help the Penguins in the expansion draft, so why not do it again with Murray? Since Fleury left Right now the Golden Knights’ goaltending tandem is rock solid, but that Pittsburgh Murray has had mixed results, and was outplayed by the may not be the case for long, especially if they are unable to sign younger Tristan Jarry, which led to Josh Yohe protecting Jarry over unrestricted free agent Robin Lehner this coming offseason. Marc-Andre Murray in his mock protection list. Fleury still has two years left on his contract, but the 35-year-old can’t play forever. Dealing the younger Malcolm Subban for Lehner in But if Pittsburgh doesn’t want to lose its two-time Stanley Cup-winning February leaves the future of the position in question. goalie for absolutely nothing, the Penguins could once again give the Golden Knights a call. Murray would fit right in, joining a familiar tandem If they find a way to sign Lehner, then the position is secure for years to with Fleury, and would give Vegas a more stable goalie situation for the come and acquiring another goalie becomes unnecessary. However, if future. Lehner goes elsewhere in free agency, which is a legit possibility considering Vegas’ lack of cap space, the team could opt to go with a Murray is still only 26 but is coming off his worst season in the NHL. He cheaper option at backup goalie, and wait to acquire one at the deadline. posted a save percentage below .900 for the first time, and a goals saved above average (GSAA) of minus-11.60, meaning he performed The Golden Knights just signed Oscar Dansk to a one-year contract significantly worse than a league-average goalie. worth $700,000. Dansk served as the Chicago Wolves starter for most of the season in the AHL, and has stepped up to play for the Golden If there’s an issue with this scenario, it would definitely be Murray’s Knights on multiple occasions. Perhaps the plan is to give Dansk a contract. He accounted for a cap hit of only $3.75 million this season, but chance to take ownership of the second goalie spot, and if he doesn’t — as a restricted free agent with arbitration rights that could go up trade for one at the deadline. depending on what happens this offseason.

Not every team with a fantastic goalie duo will need to trade one. Some There’s no denying, Vegas acquiring Murray to be Fleury’s backup and teams, like the Columbus Blue Jackets, will be able to retain both eventual replacement would be poetic. 3. Antti Raanta

The Coyotes had arguably the best overall goaltending in the NHL this season, despite suffering major injuries to the position. Starter Darcy Kuemper was fantastic with a .928 save percentage and 16.65 GSAA, both of which were top-five in the league. But even when Kuemper missed time, Raanta was phenomenal with an equally impressive .921 save percentage and 11.69 GSAA.

Raanta’s situation is slightly more complicated than Demko’s and Murray’s because he’s currently scheduled to hit free agency in 2021-22. However, in our mock expansion draft, Duhatschek selected him as Seattle’s top goalie. Because of those circumstances, it’s highly unlikely Arizona will be able to keep Raanta, which could lower his value.

Vegas would need to pay a premium to convince one of its closest division rivals to send over a goalie, but the Coyotes could be willing to make the deal rather than lose a valuable player for nothing.

4. Frederik Andersen

Of all the goalies exposed in The Athletic’s mock expansion draft, the one that surprised me most was Frederik Andersen. James Mirtle opted to protect backup Jack Campbell, who will be on an extremely reasonable $1.65 million contract through 2022. There’s still a lot of hockey to be played between now and then, so Campbell could either play his way into or out of that type of decision.

When it comes down to it, Toronto will be faced with losing one of its goalies. Whether it’s Andersen or Campbell, that will be the Maple Leafs’ choice, but either one would be a solid pickup for Vegas. Andersen has played valiantly in Toronto with an extremely heavy workload, and would provide Vegas with a smooth transition from Fleury if the price is right.

5. Pavel Francouz

Another team with surprisingly strong team goaltending this season was the Colorado Avalanche. Philipp Grubauer, acquired in a trade with Washington, has played well in his two seasons in Colorado, but it was Pavel Francouz who came out of nowhere to shock the league.

The 30-year-old is slightly undersized, and entered this season without a single NHL start under his belt. But Francouz displayed some spectacular athleticism, reflexes, and solid positioning on his way to a .923 save percentage. He also racked up an impressive 13.06 GSAA in only 30 starts. While his track record isn’t long enough to determine whether this success is sustainable, the Avalanche could be posed with a difficult decision between Francouz and Grubauer. If Grubauer plays well next season, the Avalanche could be looking to get a return for Francouz, and the Golden Knights would be one of the most ideal landing spots.

The Athletic LOADED: 07.04.2020 1187308 Vegas Golden Knights

City Of Henderson Says Petition To Hold Vote On Silver Knights Arena Project Has Procedure Flaw

July 3, 2020

By Alan Snel of LVSportsBiz.com

You didn’t think the city of Henderson — hungry to be a player in the local pro sports scene — would allow a petition requesting a public vote on a 6,000-seat hockey arena to get in the way of a new minor league hockey team playing games at the Henderson Pavilion site?

Come now.

Henderson’s Office of the City Clerk said there’s a procedural problem with the petition submitted by a local group called the Henderson Coalition for Responsible Government.

The city said the petition seeking a public vote on the Henderson Events Center did not contain a description of the effect the initiative would have if it was approved by Henderson voters.

The initiative petition apparently, though, had enough signatures.

The organization opposes public money being used to rehab the Henderson Pavilion into a 6,000-seat arena to house the minor league Henderson Silver Knights, which would be the Triple A team of the Vegas Golden Knights. The American Hockey League Silver Knights, the former team from San Antonio purchased by VGK owner Bill Foley, have their own logo and merchandise.

The city wants to split the costs of the $84 million arena project down the middle with the Golden Knights — $42 million in public money from the city and $42 million from the VGK.

But the Henderson Coalition for Responsible Government argued the location off the Green Valley Parkway will cause traffic and congestion problems and said public money should also not be used for the $84 million arena proposal dubbed the Henderson Events Center.

For the record, he was the city of Henderson’s take on the petition complete with official language: “. . . the initiative petition is required to meet certain procedural requirements, specifically, to set forth in not more than 200 words a description of the effect of the initiative if it is approved by voters. This description must appear on each signature page of the petition, directly above the signature lines, so that signatories understand the extent of what they are signing. The initiative petition does not contain a description of effect on any page of the petition and is therefore certified as insufficient.”

So, “insufficiency” was the ruling.

“If the petitioners would like City Council to review the Office of the City Clerk’s determination of insufficiency, they have two days to notify the clerk in writing. If they so request, their review would be heard and considered at a special City Council meeting on July 16, 2020,” the city said.

LVSportsBiz.com LOADED: 07.04.2020 1187309 Washington Capitals

The biggest 'what ifs' for the 2019-20 Capitals' season: What if Vrana had a top power play role all season?

By J.J. Regan July 03, 2020 6:00 AM

We are looking at some of the biggest “what ifs” for the Capitals for the 2019-20 season.

Today’s what if: What if Jakub Vrana had a top power-play role all season?

Jakub Vrana may be having the best season that no one is talking about. When you are teammates with one of the best goal scorers of all-time and a bonafide superstar, other players tend to get overshadowed. Just ask Nicklas Backstrom.

Vrana scored 24 even-strength goals in the 2019-20 season, tied for 11th in the NHL. It’s only four behind David Pastrnak, three behind Leon Draisaitl, one behind Patrick Kane and Artemi Panarin, tied with Jack Eichel and more goals than players like Mika Zibanejad (23), Nathan MacKinnon (23), Connor McDavid (23) and Brad Marchand. So why isn’t Vrana viewed as the same caliber offensive player as those others? The answer is the power play.

While Vrana ranks 11th in even-strength goals, he ranks tied for 35th overall with 25 goals. That’s right, he has one single power-play goal this season. The 10 players ahead of him in the even-strength goals list averaged just over 10 power-play goals for the season. An extra 10 goals would have tied Vrana with McDavid for 10th in the NHL.

Vrana did not start the season on the top player play unit. He was actually only moved there late in the season as Washington’s power play struggled. Relegated to the forgotten and rarely used second unit, Vrana only recently started to see more opportunity on the power play resulting in just one goal which came on Jan. 11.

But what if Vrana had been on the top power-play unit all season? Would he have racked up enough goals to garner national attention?

Probably not as much as you may think.

First, let’s remember that the power play has been terrible this season. It ranks 17th in the NHL overall, but is actually 24th since Dec. 23. Second, there is not a natural spot where Vrana fits on the top power play. He is a sniper, his best asset is shooting and he is not going to replace the player tasked with taking the one-timer from the far faceoff dot, Alex Ovechkin. Vrana was playing the goal line in place of Evgeny Kuznetsov. Based on how Washington's power play has worked the last few years, this spot is primarily for setting up the slot or bouncing it back to the half- wall. Vrana is a better set-up player than many give him credit, but this role really does not put him in the best position to use his shot. More time on the power play should increase his goal total just as a result of him being on the ice more, but based on how the power play has played and how he is used, it probably would not have boosted his totals into being one of the top 10-15 scorers in the NHL this season.

Comcast SportsNet.com LOADED: 07.04.2020 1187310 Washington Capitals forecheck. The 22-year-old is also a tenacious penalty killer and willing shot blocker. If he’s needed by the Caps, he’d likely slide into a fourth- line role.

Projecting the Capitals’ expanded playoff roster and lines Connor McMichael, C

The 2019 first rounder is the organization’s top forward prospect. He lit up the OHL last season, amassing 47 goals and 55 assists in 52 games By Tarik El-Bashir Jul 3, 2020 for the . He also enjoyed a breakout in international play, racking up five goals and two assists in seven games for Canada at the

world juniors. McMichael, 19, probably won’t play for the Caps this Phase 2 of the NHL’s return to play plan ramped up at MedStar Capitals summer; instead, he’ll be along for the experience. “I think it (would be) a Iceplex this week as players trickled back into town ahead of training big leap for his development, just to be in that environment, to see how camp, which is set to begin later this month. guys work, to see how guys practice, off-ice workouts, nutrition stuff, see our main guys doing it on a daily basis in a competitive environment,” The original crew of Braden Holtby, John Carlson, Lars Eller and Evgeny Caps General Manager Brian MacLellan said in May when asked if Kuznetsov — the first group of Caps to hit the ice in Arlington last month McMichael was under consideration. “I think it would be invaluable for — was joined by Alex Ovechkin, Dmitry Orlov, Garnet Hathaway, him.” Brenden Dillon and Pheonix Copley. Daniel Sprong, RW By early next week, there will be more familiar faces skating and working out at the team’s facility as another batch of players, many of whom have Acquired in late February from Anaheim for defenseman Christian Djoos, already traveled back but are currently in quarantine, receive clearance Sprong is the most experienced player in this group. The 23-year-old had to join their teammates. 19 goals and 30 points in 97 games for the Penguins and Ducks. He’ll be a restricted free agent at season’s end, so the Caps need to figure out Camp is now supposed to begin on July 13. That much we know. What what they’ve got in him. If they like what they see, he could be an we don’t know still is who’ll be on the expanded roster — 28 skaters and inexpensive (he carried a $750,000 cap hit this season) option for a an unlimited number of goalies — that the Caps will bring with them to bottom six that figures to have an opening next season. the hub city for the resumption of play. The team isn’t expected to make any announcements in that regard until we get much closer to the first One thing to remember is that there probably will be another player (or on-ice practice session. two) in the mix to join this group. Again, the Caps don’t plan to finalize their list/make any announcements until closer to the start of camp. For the purposes of this exercise, though, we’re going to make some educated guesses at who might end up traveling to the hub and how Defense Coach Todd Reirden will have them line up for Game 1 of the round John Carlson robin. Brenden Dillon Forwards Radko Gudas Nicklas Backstrom Nick Jensen Travis Boyd Michal Kempny Nic Dowd Dmitry Orlov Lars Eller Jonas Siegenthaler Carl Hagelin Like the forwards, these are the no-brainers. All of the above blueliners Garnet Hathaway saw significant time during the regular season and will be on the Ilya Kovalchuk postseason roster. Who might join the group? Among the more likely candidates are these three: Evgeny Kuznetsov Alex Alexeyev, LD T.J. Oshie The 2018 first rounder notched three goals and 18 assists in 58 games in Alex Ovechkin Hershey this season and showed steady improvement throughout the campaign. But like McMichael, Alexeyev, 20, would probably get the call Richard Panik more to be an observer rather than as a potential injury fill-in. Jakub Vrana Martin Fehervary, LD Tom Wilson Although he was selected 15 spots behind Alexeyev in ’18, Fehervary Those are the easy ones. All 13 of the above forwards saw significant ranks ahead of Alexeyev on the prospect depth chart. The 20-year-old playing time this season and will be included. recorded an assist in six games with the Caps this season and could push his way onto Washington’s roster in a full-time role next season. He But who might join them? We suspect four-to-six Hershey could see game action this summer if there are injuries or a veteran Bears/prospects will get tapped to be “black aces” — the term used for struggles badly. postseason practice bodies and backups. The likely candidates could include: Tyler Lewington, RD

Shane Gersich, LW A stay-at-home defenseman that knows his role and keeps it simple. The 25-year-old has appeared in eight games over the past two seasons with The 2014 fifth rounder hasn’t seen any NHL action for a couple of the Caps. He could get into a game this summer if there’s an injury or seasons, but he’s got some experience. He appeared in three regular two. season games for the Caps in 2017-18 and also suited up for two games during the team’s run to the Stanley Cup. In Hershey, Gersich, who turns 24 next week, has developed into an effective two-way player who can The No. 1 job will be Braden Holtby’s to lose when camp begins. kill penalties. He’s also able to play both wings and center, though he’s been primarily deployed as a left wing by the Bears. “I felt confident with where things were going right before the pause in terms of how his game was coming around and I think he’ll get the first Beck Malenstyn, LW crack at it,” Reirden said recently. The 2016 fifth-round pick got his first taste of the NHL this season, suiting up for three games with the Caps as an injury replacement in November. He skates well for a 6-foot-2, 198-pounder and is relentless on the That said, don’t expect Ilya Samsonov to head to the bench without a fight. The rookie played very well before struggling in February and March and figures to get a game in the round robin.

After Holtby and Samsonov, we feel incredibly confident in projecting the other two goalies who’ll make the cut:

Pheonix Copley

There’s a lot of familiarity with Copley, who won 16 games as Holtby’s backup in 2018-19. If anything happens to Holtby or Samsonov, he would be the next goaltender up. Even if the 28-year-old doesn’t get into a game, he’ll want to show well in practice; with Holtby due to become an unrestricted free agent, the Caps could find themselves in the market for a goaltender to backup Samsonov next season.

Vitek Vanecek

Named to the AHL all-star game for the second year in a row, Vanecek, a 2014 second rounder, posted his best save percentage this season (.917) while sharing Hershey’s net with Copley. He’ll also want to perform well in practice because of the potential need for a goaltender in Washington next season.

The Athletic LOADED: 07.04.2020 1187311 Winnipeg Jets and appeared to be foolishly set in his ways on an issue of great importance.

There are several Jets players who could benefit. Imagine Mark And the NHL's MVP in this most unusual season is... Gary Bettman? Scheifele and Josh Morrissey representing Canada, Connor Hellebuyck and Kyle Connor skating on behalf of Uncle Sam and Patrik Laine firing one-timers for Finland in a true best-on-best competition on the biggest international stage of all. Mike McIntyre Now, such a scenario isn't just a pipe-dream anymore. There could be

others, too, although Blake Wheeler will be on the cusp of turning 36 and In a year that's already given us more plot twists than an M. Night likely to be a longshot for th U.S. Nikolaj Ehlers will be be a shoo-in for Shyamalan film — are those murder hornets still a thing? — here's Denmark, if they can qualify. another development few likely saw coming: Gary Bettman is running Since bringing back the Jets in time for the 2011-12 season, Bettman's away with the title of 2020's best commissioner in North American pro reception at Bell MTS Place has always been less frosty than what he sports. experiences at other rinks around the league. And while he's still more Yes, THAT Gary Bettman, the same guy who is greeted with deafening likely to be viewed as a pariah rather than Mr. Popular among the boos seemingly every time he shows his face inside a rink. It's become majority of hockey fans, there's no doubt he's the right guy at the helm to part of his schtick, and the 68-year-old New York lawyer has embraced lead the league through these unprecedented times. the role like a classic pro wrestling villain. Despite that, I suspect most will go ahead and hold their applause. One of my favourite moments on the sports beat came while covering the Perhaps, just for old times sake, the league can pipe in a chorus of boos 2019 draft in Vancouver, where fans at Rogers Arena were merciless as as the commissioner does the most unique Stanley Cup presentation in the NHL boss took the stage. "Keep it up — if you can!" Bettman taunted league history sometime this fall in an otherwise-empty Edmonton arena. the sold-out crowd, reviling in the raucous reaction. He quickly turned the Bettman may deserve better, but he likely wouldn't want it any other way. jeers into cheers when he brought out Daniel and Henrik Sedin to get the event underway. From heel to hero in the blink of an eye. Winnipeg Free Press LOADED 07.04.2020 I was reminded of that humorous moment this week, as marathon negotiating sessions between the NHL and NHLPA produced a complex, tentative agreement that, assuming it gets approved by a player vote in the coming days, will go down as one of the most pivotal in league history and should have hockey lovers on their feet celebrating both the short- and long-term direction of the league.

Not only have they mapped out a unique return-to-play this summer including extensive health and safety protocols and a 24-team Stanley Cup tournament to be held in Edmonton and Toronto, they've also guaranteed peace for the foreseeable future through a new financial framework and multi-year extension of the collective bargaining agreement.

The fact this happened in the middle of a global pandemic still wreaking havoc on the economy is nothing short of incredible, especially when you look at the current messes in MLB (massive dissension between players and owners), the NBA (COVID-19 epicentre Florida is being used a hub?!) and the NFL (Washington Redskins debacle, looking at allowing fans in stadiums this fall provided they sign waivers).

Don't just take my word for it. An online poll this week from website SBNation.com showed Bettman ahead of sporty compatriots Rob Manfred, Adam Silver and Roger Goodell when it comes to confidence and trust in a commissioner. Voters clearly like what they're seeing in the NHL. As they should.

Bettman is not without flaws. There have been three work stoppages under his watch (the 1994-95, 2004-05 and 2012-13 lockouts) that are a stain on his legacy and help explain, at least in part, why he's so unpopular among fans. But he's also overseen record revenue growth, widened the league's footprint in non-typical U.S. markets and overseas, expanded to 32 teams and, most importantly around these parts, brought the NHL back to Winnipeg.

Although numerous parties have been involved in hashing out the exhaustive protocols over the past few weeks, including union rep Donald Fehr, this is Bettman's baby. The buck starts and stops with the 2018 Hockey Hall of Fame inductee, and steering the league through the roughest of waters and charting a smoother course might just be the crowning achievement in his 27 years at the helm.

Whether it was backing off plans to have a draft in June or abandoning U.S. markets such as Las Vegas as potential hubs, Bettman has repeatedly demonstrated an ability to be flexible and work in concert with stakeholders, rather than simply dictating how things are going to happen. Which is how any good leader should operate, regardless of what kind of business they're running.

Fans, especially here in Winnipeg, should be especially excited at the provision which includes NHL participation at the next two Winter Olympics — 2022 in Beijing and 2026 in the Italian cities of Milan and Cortina d'Ampezzo. That represents a major concession from Bettman, who prevented players from going to the 2018 Games in South Korea 1187312 Winnipeg Jets

Canadian government grants quarantine exemption to NHLers, deems NHL's return-to-play plan safe

Scott Billeck

Published:July 3, 2020

Updated:July 3, 2020 8:58 PM CDT

The Public Health Agency of Canada told the Winnipeg Sun on Friday evening that they have assessed the restart plan from the NHL, and against public health criteria, “and concluded that when fully implemented it offers robust measures to mitigate the risk of importation and spread of COVID-19 in Canada.”

“In addition, PHAC has received a written commitment from the implicated jurisdictions that they support the proposed risk mitigation measures from the NHL,” a statement from the PHAC read.

“Based on these factors, the Government of Canada has issued an exemption to the Mandatory Isolation order under national interest grounds for team members and staff of the NHL. As ongoing conditions of the exemption, players and staff must comply with the NHL’s public health plan, and PHAC must approve any changes to that plan.

“This gradual and measured resumption of professional sports is another step towards safely restarting many of the activities that were put on hold due to the COVID-19 pandemic.”

The exemption will cover Phases 3 and 4 of the NHL’s return to play plan.

While not official, reported dates for the commencement of Phase 3 — a two-week training camp for all NHL teams — could begin on July 13.

Phase 4 — the NHL’s 24-team playoff format — could begin on Aug. 1 in the hub cities of Toronto and Edmonton.

The league and the NHLPA still need to come to an agreement on the RTP plan, along with a new, multi-year collective bargaining agreement. Those talks are ongoing, and any agreement must be ratified by the majority of the players before it is finalized.

That agreement, according to reports, could come over the weekend, and a vote could come as early as Monday.

The exemption, which was expected to be granted by the feds, eliminates the final hurdle for Canadian NHL teams in terms of getting their players across the border and back to their respective cities without interfering with the start of training camps.

Some Canadian NHL teams, including the Winnipeg Jets, have their own protocol in place, including a seven-day quarantine period mandated by the club in an effort to protect the public. This also includes testing protocols set out in Phase 2 of the NHL’s RTP plan.

The Jets had players trickling into Winnipeg throughout the week, with the majority of the team expected to be in the city by Friday.

Winnipeg Sun LOADED 07.04.2020 1187313 Winnipeg Jets Most agents also become friends to players. With the size of his client base, Petkau gets very close to his, so family decisions often become more important than hockey ones.

FRIESEN: Agent for Jets goalies juggles the personal, professional, “It’s hard for many fans to recognize that, but I deal with players every during pandemic day who have life issues, life questions, that matter more than the game of hockey,” he said. “Hockey is what they do. It’s not everything about them.”

Paul Friesen Too often these days, he has to tell players he doesn’t have an answer to their questions. Published:July 3, 2020 When it comes to preparing for summer hockey, though, he believes his Updated:July 3, 2020 7:00 PM CDT clients are ahead of the game.

Petkau’s agency has a year-round goalie training program, which They say a goalie’s best friends are the goal posts. includes an intensive off-season camp in Kelowna, B.C., and ongoing instruction by goalie trainer Adam Francilia during the season, via video, Player agent Ray Petkau of Steinbach, Man., would likely get a ringing Zoom meetings and Facetime – staples of the pandemic. endorsement as well. “That’s nothing new for our clients. We’ve done that for years, now,” he Petkau runs a small agency called Alpha Hockey, which represents as said. “Adam has put these guys through countless workouts in hotel many as 30 players, the vast majority of them goaltenders. rooms during the season without much equipment. So our guys are really ready for this. Interestingly, he represents all three goalies who’ve reunited with their fellow Winnipeg Jets teammates this week: starter and Vezina Trophy “They are as well-prepared as they could be, given all the candidate Connor Hellebuyck, backup Laurent Brossoit and American circumstances.” League call-up Eric Comrie. Petkau says it helps that Hellebuyck, Brossoit and Comrie – most “They’re all excited. Really excited,” Petkau told the Winnipeg Sun on goalies, for that matter – are outside-the-box thinkers. Friday. “They really see this as an opportunity. You never get that break between the regular season and playoffs. We’re all curious to see how Because one thing we do know about this pandemic: it ventures far from that will play out.” the crease.

The three Jets’ netminders returned to Winnipeg from all over the Jets won’t be clubbing in Winnipeg continent – Hellebuyck from Michigan, Brossoit from Vancouver, Comrie A Manitoba-based player agent says from what he’s seen and heard from California. Winnipeggers shouldn’t worry too much about the health ramifications of None had any travel hitches, unlike another of Petkau’s clients, who the Jets reporting for training camp. couldn’t get his fiancee across the border, heading south. Ray Petkau of Steinbach says every player he knows takes the That’s just the most recent challenge his players have faced during a coronavirus very seriously and will follow the guidelines imposed by pandemic that’s produced a boatload of them. health professionals.

Where and how to get ice time, how to stay mentally sharp and physically “They’ve been cautious to this point,” Petkau said. “I don’t have a single in shape are some others. client who’s saying, ‘Ah, screw it. This is B.S.’ They’ve really watched who they’re exposed to.” At the top of their list of concerns has been the health ramifications of the NHL’s return-to-play plan. Even those concerns vary from client to client. While Manitoba has lifted the two-week quarantine restrictions on professional athletes returning from out of province, the Jets have their One, Morweena, Man., product James Reimer, took his wife and kids own one-week rule. back to Raleigh, N.C., where they’re now in quarantine and where on Friday the state set a pandemic record for most new COVID-19 cases It’s unclear if that will keep players who arrived late this week off the ice and hospitalizations in a day. first thing next week.

His three Jets clients have returned to a relatively safe environment. Petkau says you won’t be seeing them hobnobbing around town, either way. They know all eyes will be on them. Petkau’s message to all his players: focus on the facts and the science. “Jets players can’t go out to the nightclub in Winnipeg, especially at this “Let’s not get caught up in the emotions of what we see on social media time,” he said. “There will be a lot of scrutiny. The guys always have a lot with respect to COVID,” he said. “Let’s understand the emotions are real. of eyes on them. And never more than right now, with what’s happening This is obviously a real big problem on the planet right now. And some with the virus. And they really can’t step outside the boundaries. All the areas are worse than others.” players I’ve spoken with, they all feel the responsibility.”

Petkau personally knew two people taken by the disease: New York Post Petkau represents all three goalies on the Jets roster – Connor photographer Anthony Causi, who was just 48, and one of the seven Hellebuyck, Laurent Brossoit and Eric Comrie. Manitobans who’ve died. Winnipeg Sun LOADED 07.04.2020 “It hit close to home for me,” he said. “So I know that it’s real and it’s a big concern. But we also have to be real when we look at athletes and their health.

“When we look at the data, world-wide, we have to understand that these guys, for the most part, are very, very safe.”

That doesn’t mean they can’t get sick, Petkau added. And it doesn’t mean they can’t infect someone else – a coach, a GM, an arena worker, a parent or grandparent – who will get sick, or worse.

“They all have parents and older people they care about, of course, and those who are immunocompromised. So we have to have that conversation.”

One of the big questions about re-starting the NHL surrounds the “bubble” teams will be in. Specifically, who’ll be allowed in it? Wives? Kids? Girlfriends? 1187314 Winnipeg Jets “Some games, I would tell him right before he’s going to play the wing because in our league there’s so much turnover,” Vincent said. “For him, it’s never an issue. Whatever needs to be done to have a chance to win the game — that’s the type of guy he is.” PIPELINE: Jets' Suess focused on here and now Suess’s solid play in the minors earned him a brief stint with the Jets this year.

Scott Billeck In a pinch after an injury to Patrik Laine at the end of October, Suess was rushed to San Jose and played in the now-infamous 3-2 win on Nov. 1 at Published:July 3, 2020 SAP Center. Updated:July 3, 2020 7:01 PM CDT The Jets got peppered in that game, and if not for Connor Hellebuyck’s record-setting 51-save performance, a 3-2 win would likely have been a massacre at the hands of Sharks. For a man who should seemingly have plenty on his mind, CJ Suess sounds quite focused. Suess played 10 shifts in the game, a total of 6:26 of ice time he will never forget. Speaking over the phone from a Winnipeg hotel room on Thursday, the Winnipeg Jets prospect has all the time in the world to think. Stuck in The whirlwind day for Suess came and went quickly. It was so sudden quarantine after returning to Winnipeg earlier this week from his home in that he didn’t get the customary hot lap that players often get prior to their Minnesota, Suess still isn’t sure if he will play again this year. first NHL warmup.

The mere fact he’s in Winnipeg would seem to be a good sign in and of Suess didn’t care much. itself. “Especially since it was that wild game,” Suess said. “It was my dream, it “I was pretty much told to come up here and start my quarantining, and had been all along. My first NHL game and I will remember it forever. The that’s about the extent that I know right now,” Suess said. way that we got outshot and still pulling out the win, it was a great experience.” By Friday, most of the Winnipeg Jets were expected back in the city. Training camp is, tentatively, right around the corner (as soon as July 13, THE FILE ON SUESS by many accounts) and it appears Suess will be a part of it. AGE: 26 (March 17, 1994) And it may be the last time he’s able to showcase himself before heading HOMETOWN: St. Paul, MN to restricted free agency once again and whenever this season finally ends. HEIGHT: 5-foot-11, WEIGHT: 190 pounds

“I’ve been talking with my agent, (the team and I) are on good terms, so POSITION: Forward SHOOTS: Left once the season gets back underway, we’ll start talking about it but we really haven’t got too far along on it yet,” Suess said. DRAFTED: Drafted in the fifth round, 129th overall at the 2014 NHL Draft

In truth, Suess has left more than enough on film for the Jets to once THE SKINNY: Had three 14 goals and 27 points in 57 games with the again extend him a new contract when the time comes for that. Moose … season-ending shoulder surgery cut his first pro season to just 26 games … Suess is a restricted free agent at season’s end. While he missed most of the 2018-19 season — his first as a pro — due to a shoulder injury that ended in season-ending surgery, Suess was Winnipeg Sun LOADED 07.04.2020 handed a one-year extension coming off his one-year, entry-level deal that he signed in the summer of 2018.

Healthy and out to prove himself, as he has done all his life, the 26-year- old was on pace for 20 goals in the American Hockey League before the year was paused because of COVID-19 and then, ultimately, cancelled.

The former Hobey Baker Award finalist finished with 14 goals and added 13 assists in 57 games with the Moose. There was no sign of the upper- body injury that derailed his season the year before, just the same, hard- working, gutsy player the Jets drafted in the fifth round back in 2014.

And he wants to be back in Winnipeg, fighting for a spot in the NHL next year.

“That’s ultimately where I want to be, wherever I can do that, and I feel Winnipeg would be a great fit for me,” Suess said. “Hopefully, I can come back.”

He’s the type of player the Jets want in their organization.

For a guy to come off the type of injury and surgery needed to fix the ailment, exceed the ability to play the game prior to the injury, and then earn a call up to the big league is down to two things for Manitoba Moose head coach Pascal Vincent.

Work ethic and courage.

Suess has an abundance of both. The work ethic required to get back to where he was prior to the injury and the courage to not let the injury get in the way of the hard-nosed, drive to the net style that Suess plays.

“For him to do it consistently, he was given the chance to play more and more and in different roles,” Vincent said. “He built that confidence and got back to that groove and that mindset.”

Vincent said there has never been an ego propelling Suess forward. Whatever needs to be done, Suess will make it happen. 1187315 Vancouver Canucks he has done so much work on the technical aspect of his skating, that the fundamentals are there.

“It’s the edges and balance and his drive and positioning. It has been Ben Kuzma: Chasing fitness fanatic Sedins could help Edler extend NHL repeated for so many years and you don’t lose that. It’s not quite as easy career as riding a bike, but if you show up the first day and you’re set — you’re just ready to go. He’s in a really good place.”

It didn’t happen overnight. It came through observation and application. BEN KUZMA Edler was 20 in the 2006-07 season and the Canucks roster sported Published:July 3, 2020 seasoned blueliners in Sami Salo (31), Mattias Ohlund (29), Willie Mitchell (29) and Brent Sopel (29). The Sedins were 25 and already 80- Updated:July 3, 2020 2:42 PM PDT point producers, so the on-the-job training was not lost on Edler.

And if Aidelbaum could help fine tune the skating, then Edler was going Alex Edler is doing everything on, off the ice to maintain his worth to the to have a leg up on longevity. Canucks. “She’s not trying to change the way you skate, just make small tweaks to "As you get older, everyone expects you to get slower. I feel good. I’m be more efficient,” said Edler. “It has been really good for me because as not really looking further than my contract, but I obviously want to keep you get older, everyone expects you to get slower. I don’t know how playing as long as I can." — Alex Edler, Vancouver Canucks veteran you’re supposed to feel when you’re 34. defenceman “I feel good. I’m not really looking further than my contract, but I obviously Endurance and recovery are key components in any training regimen. want to keep playing as long as I can. We’ve been getting better and it’s exciting and you want to be a part of it.” For Alex Edler, ramping up a running routine to complement skating drills in advance of the Vancouver Canucks training camp — set to begin on The Sedins retired at age 37. Salo and Mitchell called it quits at 38 and July 13 — has taken on a new meaning. Edler’s future depends on health and club direction.

He knows the best-of-five qualifying series with the Minnesota Wild is Younger players like Olli Juolevi must be worked into the fold and there’s going to test his strength, stamina and stride with games every other the ongoing pursuit of Nikita Tryamkin, the curiosity if Brogan Rafferty’s night. He also knew making the most of the Lower Mainland outdoors offensive game can translate from the AHL and how far NCAA phenom during the novel coronavirus physical-distancing restrictions could be a Jack Rathbone is from playing in the NHL. bonus. Edler suffered a shoulder injury in a collision with Zack Kassian on Nov. Especially when you accept a running invitation from fitness fanatics 30 and was sidelined for 10 games. His average minutes slipped from Daniel and Henrik Sedin. 24:39 last season to 22:37 with the arrival of Calder Trophy candidate Quinn Hughes. The rookie’s ascension included quick promotion to the Edler has a year left on his contract and the 34-year-old Swede would first power-play unit that was ranked fourth when the NHL season was like to emulate his countrymen by extending the competitive career paused March 12. curve. Chasing the Sedins on a vertical mountain trail is a good barometer. Edler ranked third overall in blocked shots this season and of his 33 points (5-28) in 59 games, 26 came at even strength. He also took a After all, the day before Sedins Week in February to celebrate their team high 26 minor penalties. jersey retirements, the twins ran a half marathon. No big deal, they have run a marathon. Running six times a week and logging 100 kilometres is Edler’s best value this season may be in what awaits the Canucks. part of their retirement routine. Jay Beagle leads the club in post-season experience with 85 games and “Every summer, I try to focus a lot on cardio and they asked me if I won a Stanley Cup with the Washington Capitals. Tyler Toffoli (47 wanted to join them for a trail run,” Edler said Friday, following a Phase 2 games) and Tanner Pearson (34) won a Stanley Cup with the Los voluntary skate at Rogers Arena. “I said I didn’t know because I probably Angeles Kings, while Edler (65) and J.T. Miler (61) have considerable had no chance of keeping up with them. They said: ‘It’s OK because we game experience. just ran a marathon last week and this is more of a recovery week for us.’ However in the top-six mix, Elias Pettersson and Brock Boeser have yet “So, I did run but it was really long and hard. It was 20 kilometres up and to play a post-season game. Same for third-liners Adam Gaudette and down and not running all the time, but we were going up Grouse Jake Virtanen. Mountain because they know all the trails up there. I was just trying to “Who knows what it’s going to be like with empty stands, so it might be stay with them and even trying to catch up to them, but that made it even even more important to try and lead the way and use my experience,” harder by trying to run and talk. said Edler. “I’ve been fortunate to work out with them a lot because of their work “The Wild have some veterans who have been around and have playoff ethic and it just rubs off on you. And it was so good for the young guys to experience. It’s definitely going to be a hard series and a tight series, but see how hard they pushed.” we have a good chance.” That experience and career perspective afforded by the Sedins — first Edler has two young daughters and is vigilant with COVID-19 safety ballot Hockey Hall of Fame locks for sure — is inspiring. protocols in the city and province. He’s also wary of how they’ll be Edler vowed to carry on their legacy in the community and be a culture- applied at the Western Conference post-season hub in Edmonton. There defining presence in the room. And because he doesn’t want to be one of is some trepidation among players and opting out of post-season play is those 30-plus defencemen who just fades away and proves more of a an NHL option. hindrance than a help, he gamely attempts to match strides with the “They’re working hard to create a safe space for us and there’s no doubt Sedins, and also works on every facet of his skating with local skating that everything that can be done is being done,” said Edler. “There’s coach Barb Aidelbaum. uncertainty for the whole world, but it’s obvious we have to create a safe “He’s a quiet guy,” said Aidelbaum. “We’ve been skating together since environment for everyone. And if we can’t, we can’t play because that’s 2014 and I just kind of sat back and looked at what he was bringing to priority number 1. the rink when we first resumed skating two weeks ago. He was mentally “Everyone is in a different situation. Some may have health things going free and physically fresh. on, something in the family or just what kind person you are. The virus “You see that and think: ‘Gee, I hope the other players have used their has been hard to predict and it’s the right thing to think about health and time as productively as he has.’ He’s a thinker and in a really good place. family first.” It took him about 30 minutes our first day and you would look at him and Vancouver Province: LOADED: 07.04.2020 think he hadn’t had the (season pause) break. He felt it in the lungs, but 1187316 Vancouver Canucks The conversation is often focused on family, on opportunity and on the city of Vancouver itself. It’s an opportunity for both sides to get to know one another, to build some familiarity and comfort.

Wining and dining in NHL free agency: ‘Mr. Aquilini said get whatever Occasionally though, things can get quite detailed. you want’ In the summer of 2012, for example, the Canucks spent months courting Shane Doan, who delayed making a decision on where he wanted to play for family reasons. In late July of 2012, however, Doan and his wife By Thomas Drance Jul 3, 2020 met at Italian Kitchen, with Canucks ownership, then Canucks general manager Mike Gillis and then Canucks assistant general manager

Laurence Gilman. It was a very different July 1 in the hockey world. In Doan’s case, the group eschewed a TopTable group restaurant, There was no widespread sticker shock as the contract news rolled in. because of Doan’s deep love for Italian Kitchen. No long-term deals to criticize and dissect at length. No llamas on set “We ate at Italian Kitchen and it was beautiful,” Doan recalled this week. during the marathon 12-hour TSN broadcast. “I’ve eaten there 4-5 times since, man, I love that place.” Without NHL free agency, July 1 felt different for hockey fans. The group was spotted dining on social media and the media speculation Over the years, an appetizer to the annual tradition of the free agent ran rampant. “Pass the penne and hold the salary,” ran the headline in frenzy has developed in Vancouver in the week leading up to July 1. the Vancouver Province.

As anything in hockey, this tradition is an outgrowth, an unintended The Doan dinner went well beyond the customary pitch between a team consequence, of an alteration in the NHL’s operating procedures. and an unrestricted free agent. Doan recalls quizzing management on everything from their farm system to how best to compliment the Sedin In 2013 the NHL and the NHLPA introduced the “free agent courting twins on the power play. It was, to hear Doan tell it, a uniquely detailed period” into NHL parlance. It’s a week-long extravaganza of dinner meeting. conversations between teams and agents. There are visits by various free agents to different cities and big presentations made by general “At the time the Coyotes were really struggling financially with the lockout managers and owners, sometimes even mayors, to the top free agents. and everything else that was going on and it felt like it was in a different league,” Doan recalls of hearing the Canucks’ pitch. “It was like The courting period is a lengthy feeling out process during which all everything they could possibly do to make your player experience better, teams and agents scrupulously avoid discussing specific contract details, it was done. at least in writing. “In Arizona, we’d come out of bankruptcy and the league had owned us. Specific to Vancouver, a hockey-mad city with prying eyes all over town, They’d given us so much support, the league had, in regards to giving us the last week of June is now traditionally punctuated by a prominent free the best players that we could have and we had a pretty good run for agent being spotted out to dinner with Canucks hockey operations staff three years, but it was different than giving you absolutely everything. and ownership. From Milan Lucic to Tyler Myers, these high-profile unrestricted free agents are, without fail, spotted annually at one of the “I remember that night we talked about analytics, we talked about Toptable group of restaurants owned and operated by the Aquilini family cameras, we talked about technology that Manchester United and in the week leading up to free agency. Arsenal were using and how they were tracking players, trying to find every advantage possible,” Doan says. “They had sleep doctors, all I'M AT THIS STUPID FANCY RESTRUSNT FOR A FAMILY FUNCTION these things. I was chuckling, like, ‘Man this feels like a different league THAT I DON'T BELONG AT, OWNED BY FRANCESCO AQUILINI, IN almost.’ We had things to keep us competitive in Phoenix, but we weren’t WALKS TYLER MYERS TO A PRIVATE ROOM, FOLLOWED BY going that extra mile. FRANCESCO AQUILINI. “The easy part for them, honestly, was selling Vancouver. It’s a world — XTECH (@XTECHHOCKEY) JUNE 24, 2019 class city. There’s only so many cities that can be in that category, but Vancouver is one of them.” “We went to dinner with my wife and my agent, Francesco Aquilini, and basically all the staff,” Myers recalls. “Jim (Benning) and Travis (Green) Doan had some understanding of the restaurant in question on that and Nolan (Baumgartner) came too. We had a good dinner and having evening in 2012 since it was an old favourite. Still, as Doan and his wife that experience made the visit more personal. It definitely got me excited dined with a pair of Canucks executives coming off of back-to-back about the idea of deciding to sign with Vancouver.” Presidents’ Trophy–winning seasons and Canucks ownership, he was struck by the cordial hospitality. This year the Canucks were more concerned with cohort quarantines, phase 2 and promoting their Canucks Marketplace offerings in the week “In that situation you’re humbled by the whole process and appreciative leading up to July 1. Still, the art of wining and dining free agents is of the generosity. It was over the top. I couldn’t have been more usually commonplace around the NHL. impressed,” Doan recalls.

The fact that Canucks ownership owns a large consortium of fine dining “When you’re sitting eating, it’s so much more relaxing than sitting in the establishments in the city of Vancouver makes the locations somewhat boardroom. It sounds, I guess, a bit different, but it’s the intimacy of more predictable. It’s at the point that a dinner between a high-profile free eating. It’s just casual. It makes it more genuine. That location is a great agent and the Canucks at the Blue Water Cafe has become something of location, and it was really good. a free agent frenzy cliche among hardcore Canucks fans. “They come out and they’re like, ‘What would you like?’ Obviously Mr. Beyond the jokes and the characteristic fervour of Vancouver’s hockey Aquilini said, ‘Y’know, get whatever you want.'” And I knew a couple fans, the restaurant dinner is a key opportunity for both sides during the things I really liked off the menu, then they brought a couple of other courting period. It allows both the player and the key decision makers things. The dessert tree was amazing. Anyone who knows me is going to representing the organization to look into the white of the other person’s tease me a little bit, but I enjoy food and it was really, really good.” eyes, in a more casual setting than one offered in an antiseptic boardroom at the rink. Anyone who knows Doan — famous in NHL circles as a reluctant drinker — would also tease him for actually indulging in a couple of glasses of “Honestly, it was a normal dinner, no set menu or anything, we ordered wine that evening. what we wanted,” Myers says of his experience on that fateful day in late June of 2019. “It was pretty laidback, very easygoing. We just had a lot of “Well, yeah!” Doan says, laughing. “They brought out some good wine, casual conversation about everything, then towards the end, we got into and I was going to taste it. But, yeah, honestly, it was probably wasted on the hockey. me.

“They asked me questions about my wants and needs, and what I see in “I also remember we got the table bread, because it’s really good there. the team, where I could fit in. And we talked about family. It was intimate, It’s fresh, it’s really simple,” Doan adds. Asked if anyone in the dinner and it made the decision to sign here a lot easier for me.” party put their foot down and insisted on ordering it, Doan demurs. “No, the decision on the table bread, that was made beforehand.”

The festivities over dinner left a significant impression on Doan. The Canucks were the last team in the running besides the only franchise Doan ever played for in his NHL career, though ultimately Doan opted for stability and signed a four-year extension with the Coyotes contingent on the sale of the club to Greg Jamison immediately prior to the onset of the 2012-13 NHL lockout.

“As a free agent, there’s no question, it was impressive,” Doan says. “After the meal I called Stan Wilson, the Coyotes equipment manager. We were close and I remember he was like, ‘Oh no.’ He was worried — he thought I was gone for sure!”

Myers’ situation seems to have been somewhat more typical. The Canucks were his first stop as a free agent during the courting period, the group was larger and it seems as if the menu wasn’t quite so pre- determined in his case.

“I ordered the sablefish, I remember somebody recommended it,” Myers says. “I gave it a go, and I’ve become a big fan.”

More than the food, though, what sticks out to Myers when he recalls that dinner was the congenial family atmosphere of the conversation.

“A lot of the conversation was about family,” Myers says. “Francesco talked a lot about his family, and I talked a lot to Travis about his family and some similarities that we have in what we’re going through. It was very easy, it felt very natural.”

The focus on family makes sense, actually. Dining out is really all about connection and shared experience. There’s a meaning in it, meaning that begins to resonate for many of us at an early age at the family dinner table.

Strip away the cynicism and for teams, it’s an opportunity to build a meaningful connection with a prospective player. A connection that, like a first date, might help one stand out in a crowd.

It would be a mistake to underestimate the power of these dinners in shaping free agent outcomes. The experience of being wined and dined might not compare with term and dollars in determining where players ultimately decide to sign as free agents, but in a world where the major line items are roughly equal, connection and relationships are often decisive.

“You know what’s amazing?” Doan asks rhetorically. “That summer I also visited with New York and Philly. New York was very corporate, just absolutely first class. Philadelphia was like family, I met with Paul Holmgren, and it was first class too, but a family style.

“And then Vancouver was like the land of plenty, but it was mixed: first class organization and a family-style organization. The influence of all three, I was fascinated by it.

“You can understand how certain individuals would gravitate to one or the other or maybe in between, and how a city could go from being off of your radar to on it, just because of one dinner.”

The Athletic LOADED: 07.04.2020 1187317 Websites especially with the bread they give you. You usually eat too much bread and can’t finish your pasta. There’s also a steakhouse called Atlas Steak + Fish that’s pretty good, in the new casino area. They’ve taken good care of us, and we’ve gone a couple times. The Athletic / You gotta eat: NHL players name their favorite restaurants around the league Dillon: Most guys like Cactus Club or Moxie’s when we head to Canada because we don’t have those in the States.

Las Vegas By Jeremy Rutherford Jul 3, 2020 Martinez: There’s a pretty good place in The Cosmopolitan that’s like a speakeasy called Beauty & Essex. You walk through a pawnshop to get to it, and they have good food. Dinnertime on the road can be one of the biggest perks of playing in the NHL. Dillon: They’ve got tons of options at all the hotels, so you can’t go wrong at any of the dinner spots. Prime Steakhouse in the Bellagio Hotel is one. It’s a night out with the boys, eating at many of the most amazing We had our playoff team meals there overlooking the fountain, and it restaurants across North America, and if that’s not enough, they’re might have been some of the best views of the Strip. handed $100-plus of “per diem” before the team’s flight even touches down. Los Angeles

If a player is meeting a friend from the other team, plans are often made Martinez: I’ve taken guys to the Bottle Inn on Hermosa Beach. It’s a great weeks in advance. If it’s a teammate, it can be a spur-of-the-moment Italian restaurant where I used to have my pregame meals when I was choice and typically a place they frequent in that city. playing for the Kings.

But one thing is certain: When clubs check into a hotel in the late Dillon: There’s some good spots in the LA Live, but I usually try to afternoon, it’s not long before players are headed through the restaurant venture out. Spago in Beverly Hills is a pretty cool experience, as well as door and being seated by a maitre d’. Craig’s in Hollywood. Great menu and nice area!

“Everyone sort of has their groups,” New Jersey Devils goalie Cory San Jose Schneider said. “It’s not clique-y, and everyone usually gets along well, but everyone sort of gravitates towards the same groups and who you Martinez: Original Joe’s is a fairly popular spot around the league eat with. The older guys go with the older guys and the younger guys because it’s close to the hotel. And I’ve caught a couple guys sneaking with the younger guys. I think it’s fun to get everyone together as a into the Johnny Rockets by the hotel, too, for a post-practice milkshake. group. We don’t always get that chance to go out and share a meal like Dillon: I’ve got tons. Aldo’s is an awesome Italian spot, and lots of Sharks that. It’s more laid-back and guys are more at ease. You might sit next to go there for pregame meal. The Hero Ranch Kitchen in Saratoga is my a guy and have a full conversation with someone that you normally personal favorite, or Nick’s Next Door in Los Gatos. wouldn’t in the locker room. It’s a good thing.” Vancouver We polled two players from each of the league’s four divisions and got dining recommendations on the road from Schneider, Washington’s Martinez: One place is called the Italian Kitchen, and I get the same thing Brendan Dillon (formerly of San Jose), Vegas’ Alex Martinez, Dallas’ Ben every time. They have this truffle spaghetti and meatballs that is Bishop, Minnesota’s Marcus Foligno, Tampa Bay’s Alex Killorn, Ottawa’s unbelievable. Then any time I get a chance I go to Miku for sushi. … It’s Brady Tkachuk and Washington’s Jonas Siegenthaler. just down the street from the hotel, and that’s some of the best sushi I’ve ever had. Some just provided the name of the restaurant, and others described their favorite savory dish. Either way, here’s what they told us … Dillon: Where do I start? I’m a little biased because I’m from Vancouver. Blue Water Cafe for seafood — really good! — and either Minami or Miku Pacific Division for sushi. Also, Black+Blue steakhouse. Vegas defenseman Alec Martinez has played in the Pacific Division for Central Division 12 seasons. (Stephen R. Sylvanie / USA Today) The family of Dallas goalie Ben Bishop owns a restaurant in St. Louis Anaheim called Bishop’s Post. (Gary A. Vasquez / USA Today) Martinez: I don’t really have a spot in L.A. because that was always a day Chicago trip. But the DoubleTree Hotel cookies you get at the front desk are pretty solid. Bishop: RPM Italian for the chicken parm.

Dillon: There’s a couple spots in Orange County, close to the hotel, but Foligno: Carmine’s. It’s Italian, and that’s my go-to. The calamari is great! we went to the Anaheim White House a couple times. It’s an old mansion turned into a restaurant with great food! Colorado

Arizona Bishop: Elway’s in the (Ritz-Carlton) hotel for the filet.

Martinez: We usually stick pretty close to the hotel, so I’d say Fleming’s Foligno: Elway’s. The lamb chops are unreal! Prime Steakhouse is a popular spot, for sure. I’m kind of a ribeye or a Dallas New York strip kind of guy. Bishop: Town Hearth, The Charles. Dillon: I don’t have a unique place because we stay out in Glendale, where there’s not much close to the hotel. Foligno: Katy Trail Ice House. They have a great selection of burgers!

Calgary Minnesota

Martinez: For lunch, we go to Joey Tomato’s or Cactus Club for Bishop: Not many options, it’s too cold. There is an Italian place, something quick after practice. In Calgary, I usually just go to (Flames Pazzaluna Urban Italian Restaurant (which unfortunately went out of player) Derek Ryan’s house. He and his wife cook me dinner, and that’s business). better than any restaurant I can go to, but I don’t know if it’s open to the public. Foligno: Spoon and Stable.

Dillon: It’s called Mercato. I was told by one of the Flames guys to check Nashville it out. Unreal Italian! I’ve gone multiple times. Bishop: Kayne Prime Steakhouse for filet and Citizen Market for sushi.

Edmonton Foligno: Kayne Prime Steakhouse.

Martinez: There’s Sorrentino’s, an Italian joint by the hotel. We usually St. Louis order a bunch of different stuff and kind of split it. But you can’t go wrong, Bishop: Paul Manos for the chicken parm, and Bishop’s Post (owned by Boston Bishop’s family) … good salmon! Killorn: Giacomo’s for chicken parm. Foligno: Charlie Gitto’s On The Hill. Tkachuk: Strega for the appetizers and steak. Winnipeg Buffalo Bishop: Hy’s Steakhouse and Cocktail Bar and Carne Italian Chophouse. Killorn: Mothers Restaurant for lobster gnocchi. Foligno: 529 Wellington Steakhouse. Tkachuk: Buffalo Chophouse for the filet steak. Metropolitan Detroit Carolina Killorn: Bella Piatti for veal prosciutto. Schneider: It’s tough when we stay at The Umstead, because you’re kind of off the beaten path. We usually gravitate to Ruth’s Chris because it’s a Tkachuk: Prime + Proper. I love the tomahawk ribeye. good steakhouse and it’s pretty close. Honestly, we haven’t had a lot of Florida meals in Carolina because it seems like it’s always a back-to-back or we are in and out. I’ve never been to downtown Raleigh. Killorn: Cafe Martorano. Great fresh mozzarella!

Siegenthaler: Vivace. It’s an Italian place that’s pretty popular with our Tkachuk: Elbow Room and Capital Grille for the ribeye. team. Montreal Columbus Killorn: Le Bremner for lamb neck cavatelli and pancakes. Schneider: Columbus has a pretty good food scene. There’s a fish place, Tkachuk: Da Vinci Ristorante for the calamari and the chicken parm. The Fish Guys, that was really good. We go to Hyde Park Prime Steakhouse, which names its steaks after the Ohio State football guys, Ottawa like Jim Tressel. Another one is The Guild House, a farm-to-table cafe near the arena. Killorn: Riviera Ottawa for strip loin with bordelaise sauce and venison.

Siegenthaler: I actually have two. Bareburger is a good lunch spot. Tkachuk: Giovanni’s Restaurant, Mati or The Shore Club for the chicken There’s also a really good Mexican place called Bakersfield where you parm or tomahawk. can get tortillas. Tampa Bay New Jersey Killorn: On Swann for rice balls and hot chicken. Schneider: I haven’t lived in Hoboken in a while, but I know the guys like Tkachuk: Jackson’s Bistro, Bar & Sushi for the Caesar and steak and having the Del Frisco’s Grille. For us in the suburbs, we usually go to sushi. Summit because there are a few good spots: Roots Steakhouse, Summit House, Huntley Taverne has always been one of my favorites, and Toronto Fiorino Ristorante & Bar is a great Italian spot. Killorn: MARBL for veal parm. Siegenthaler: Porta. It’s a pizza place. Actually, the last time we were in New Jersey, I met (Devils forward) Nico Hischier there. Tkachuk: Lee’s for cheeseburger spring rolls and Singapore slaw.

New York Rangers With the NHL pausing its season, players haven’t been able to visit their favorite spots in months. The league could be setting up shop soon in Schneider: I’ve been to Strip House a couple times and that’s been good. Edmonton and Toronto for its return to play, but with teams confined to a We’re close enough that we can shoot into the city whenever we want. bubble and the dining areas of those restaurants perhaps closed anyway, NoBu, Catch NYC and Quality Italian are all good spots. it could be next season before they stop in again. The eight players we spoke with haven’t forgotten the names of these places, so you can bet Siegenthaler: Eataly. There’s a couple of restaurants in there, so there’s that the next time they travel to those cities, those restaurants will be always something to find. among the first places they go. New York Islanders And if you’re ever in the area, now you know where to go. Schneider: I went there a couple times with Vancouver but didn’t explore The Athletic LOADED: 07.04.2020 too much. I think there’s a Morton’s in that mall area nearby.

Siegenthaler: La Nonna Bella.

Philadelphia

Schneider: Frisco’s Double Eagle Steakhouse in the old bank building. We were there a few years ago before the Philadelphia Eagles played in the NFC Championship Game, so all the Fox broadcasters were there. Someone thought (former Devils forward) Jimmy Hayes was (Eagles quarterback) Carson Wentz, which was pretty funny.

Siegenthaler: D’Angelo’s Ristorante Italiano.

Pittsburgh

Schneider: Meat & Potatoes. I had one of the best pork chops I’ve ever had there.

Siegenthaler: Eleven. They have a wide variety of food.

Washington

Schneider: I haven’t explored D.C. much, but there is an Italian place right by the Four Seasons in Georgetown called La Perla that everyone raves about.

Siegenthaler: Green Pig Bistro. It’s a pretty good burger spot.

Atlantic 1187318 Websites The league’s minimum salary will be set at $750,000. No-move and no-trade clauses will now move with players even if they

haven’t been triggered. In the past, teams acquiring players with no- The Athletic / All the details of the current framework for the NHL’s new move or no-trade clauses had to agree to keep the clauses. CBA agreement Players 35 and older can sign multiple-year contracts and there will not be a cap hit if they retire before the end of the deal provided the deals are flat or ascending in value. Currently, the cap hit for players 35 and By Scott Burnside Jul 3, 2020 older remained on the books if they retired before completion of the contract.

There are changes to the structure of front-loaded deals with a contract The NHL and the NHL Players’ Association continue to push toward a length of six years or longer that have an average annual value of at historic agreement that would both extend the current collective least 7.5 percent of the salary cap at the time of signing. Those contracts bargaining agreement and see the game resume the 2019-20 season can’t exceed 35 percent between the highest and lowest yearly value. this summer. No changes are planned to other types of contracts or to signing Once the details of the CBA extension and the protocols for training bonuses. camp and the resumption of play are finalized, the NHLPA will vote on both together — meaning they cannot approve one half without Players and spouses or significant others travel business class. approving the other half. It is expected that the players’ association will hold a full membership vote, not just a vote of the executive board, and The Athletic LOADED: 07.04.2020 the members of the seven teams not included in the Return to Play format would be part of the vote. It will take a majority to approve the agreement.

The complicated multi-layered agreement aimed at ferrying the game through the unprecedented waters created by the COVID-19 pandemic may not be in a position for approval by the players for a couple of days, but a source familiar with the negotiations told The Athletic’s Pierre LeBrun that it would extend the current CBA through the 2025-26 season.

Here are other details of the current framework being discussed, according to the source:

The salary cap will stay at $81.5 million for the 2021-21 season.

The cap will stay at $81.5 million until revenues reach $4.8 billion. After that, a formula for establishing the cap will be employed that uses hockey-related revenues from two seasons prior. For instance, the 2022- 23 cap would be calculated using hockey-related revenue numbers from 2020-21. In theory, this will blunt escrow growth.

Escrow on player salaries would be capped at:

20 percent in 2020-21

14-18 percent in 2021-22 (pending revenues in the previous season)

10 percent in 2022-21

6 percent in the final three seasons

An escrow debt of $125 million or more at that time would trigger a one- year extension of the CBA. The owners and players split hockey-related revenue evenly, so a debt is created when players’ salaries are more than 50 percent of revenues. Players play a percentage of their salary into an escrow account to offset that potential difference, but if that is not enough, further debt would be created.

Players will see a 10 percent deferral of next season’s salary, which will be paid out in equal installments over three seasons starting with 2023- 24 and ending in 2025-26.

There will be language in the Return to Play agreement that allows players to opt out of playing in the hub cities without penalty.

The playoff fund for the Return to Play will be doubled from $16 million to $32 million. The cost of that increase is being split between the NHL and NHLPA at $8 million each. How that $32 million will be distributed among the players is still being negotiated.

Next year’s playoff fund will be $20 million.

Entry-level salaries will be set at $950,000 for players drafted in 2022 and 2023 and will go to $975,000 in the next two years before hitting $1 million in 2026. There are also increases in the bonuses available to players on entry-level deals.

The NHL will take part in the Olympics in 2022 in Beijing and 2026 in Milan, pending an agreement with the International Olympic Committee. The cost of insurance, travel costs and marketing were major issues in the NHL opting out of the Olympic tournament in South Korea in 2018. 1187319 Websites Tyson Jost, but taking out Ryan Graves might leave an even bigger hole on the blue line. Those are tough decisions.

A team this weak at center would usually have no business being a The Athletic / By the numbers: Can the Seattle NHL team replicate playoff team, but the depth at wing and on defense combined with strong Vegas’ magical first season? goaltending can be enough to mask it. Depth plus goaltending can be king as we saw in Vegas’ first season and the expansion draft rules allow for Seattle to be a pretty deep team from the get-go as well. And that doesn’t even include potential side deals which could be very fortuitous By Dom Luszczyszyn Jul 3, 2020 for Seattle as it was for Vegas.

Of course what Seattle needs more than anything to mirror Vegas’ first Three years ago the Vegas Golden Knights shocked the sports world season magic is a bit of lady luck on its side. That, more than anything, earning 109 points, winning their division and making it all the way to the contributed to the Golden Knights’ unexpected success. Vegas was a Stanley Cup Final — all in their inaugural season. Expansion franchises way better team than consensus opinion at the time suggested (the are almost always among the league’s worst teams and the Golden team’s over/under total was 68.5 points), blasting through even the most Knights were expected to be no different. optimistic forecasts (we had them projected for 83.3 points), but a lot had to go right for that to happen. What they accomplished against all odds was impressive and unprecedented. With Seattle entering the NHL in 2021 under the same That’s not to mean that models and oddsmakers are beyond reproach expansion draft rules, is it possible for lightning to strike twice? and it was all luck. Vegas was a much greater team than anyone gave it credit for, but they were still buoyed by several players breaking out for Over the last couple weeks, our empire of beat writers imagined what unexpected career years at the same time. From a team-building each team’s protected lists might look like, concluding with a mock draft perspective for Seattle, that’s something that would be very difficult to from Eric Duhatschek. While we’re still a long ways away from the real bank on. team being picked, that exercise gives us an early look at some of the talent that may be available for Seattle to pick from. There are capable At the same time, it’s certainly a possibility given the human element of wingers like James van Riemsdyk, T.J. Oshie and Ondrej Palat. the ordeal. Having 30 players with collective chips on their shoulders from being left unprotected is probably a very real motivating factor that There are strong top-four defenders like Brent Burns, Jonas Brodin and contributed to the team’s success. It’s something to rally around that MacKenzie Weegar. And there is a slew of intriguing goalies like Antti goes beyond whatever anyone’s previous opinions of the players were — Raanta, Matt Murray and Thatcher Demko. qualitative or quantitative. Every single player had something to prove that year and they certainly proved it. Seattle has options and a lot will depend on what direction the team wants to head. There are plenty of moving parts and contextual factors at Statistically speaking, the talent should be there once again for an work that will make player choices very difficult. Strictly in a vacuum expansion team to surprise everyone by fielding an actual competitive though, if the goal is to mirror Vegas’ first-year success, would the best team. Vegas had a lot of talent to pick from and even though they chose team possible built from the players available accomplish that? The a little differently, the success of those choices only proves that even answer is not quite, but not exactly far off either. further.

Using each player’s projected 2022 value (applying an age curve to their Based on the protected lists created by our staff, Seattle should have a current value based on GSVA), Seattle can very well build a year one similar calibre of skill available and though they too will need a little playoff team from those left unprotected. The team would be projected to magic of their own to replicate Vegas’ incredible inaugural season, it be roughly a 97-point team, which would place them on the cusp of the looks very much in the realm of possibility. Vegas changed what that top 10 in terms of true talent level. realm looked like three seasons ago and if lightning does strike twice, it won’t be anywhere near as surprising this time around. After every team unveiled their protected lists in 2017, I did a similar exercise to this one in figuring out how good the best version of Vegas The Athletic LOADED: 07.04.2020 could be, estimating that there was a true-talent 100-point team amidst the group of unprotected players. That’s not far off from what will likely be available to Seattle too.

This is the starting lineup of what the best version of the team, according to my model, would look like.

Like Vegas, there are no truly elite players to be found, but there are still a few top-six calibre forwards available and a surprisingly solid top four to build around (especially if they can sign Brodin and if Burns can bounce back). That, plus depth through every line and pairing was the calling card for Vegas and the same can be true for Seattle.

The biggest trump card though is in net where Antti Raanta has potential to deliver elite results given his strong netminding ability over the last several seasons. Raanta is a 2021 UFA making his selection tricky, but if Seattle can sign him after picking him he would become a crucial building block for the team.

By far the biggest challenge for Seattle will be down the middle where there’s a severe dearth of talent among the players left exposed. Joe Pavelski is the best of the bunch for now, but has a fat contract and just had one of his worst seasons after going to Dallas.

Josh Bailey slots in on the second line and though he’s a fine scorer, his 5-on-5 play is troubling to say the least. Calle Jarnkrok is solid (but wasn’t used a s a center this past season) and Sam Bennett has pedigree, but all-in-all this group would give the team one of the worst center corps in the league.

The pickings are slim partially because some decent options would mean sacrificing more value elsewhere. Tampa Bay has Tyler Johnson, but he’s arguably not as valuable as Palat who carries the second-most skater value on the team. Colorado has budding former first round pick 1187320 Websites Nathan MacKinnon pick and they’re the clear winner in the non-Penguins division.

Do you think Brian Skrudlund pops a new bottle of champagne every The Athletic / DGB Mailbag: Could a team of 20 Zdeno Charas beat a time someone fails to break his playoff overtime record (for fastest goal), team of 20 Johnny Gaudreaus? akin to how the members of 1972 Miami Dolphins pop a new bottle when the last undefeated NFL team finally loses each season? – Liam S.

I doubt it, but I kind of hope he does because I love the concept. By Sean McIndoe Jul 3, 2020 Especially in the opening round when there may be multiple overtimes a night. I can picture the poor guy sitting in his living room at the end of the

night, surrounded by a half-dozen empty champagne bottles, screaming Welcome to another edition of the mailbag, in which you ask me very “STILL GOT IT” while his wife yells at him to come to bed. strange questions and I put way too much thought into coming up with Assume that an evil genius scientist has perfected cloning technology (I the right answer. This week, we’re going to figure out how to trade Jack mean, there’s still six months left in 2020). Who would win if a full team of Eichel, rank the teams that had the most luck picking first overall, induct Johnny Gaudreaus played a full team of Zdeno Charas? – Marc L. a placeholder into the Hockey Hall of Fame, and figure out whether a team full of Zdeno Charas could beat a team full of Johnny Gaudreaus. I wrote back to Marc to clarify if this included goaltenders, and he said it No, I don’t desperately need hockey to come back, why do you ask? did.

Note: Submitted questions have been edited for clarity. Man.

What franchise has gotten the most value out of the first overall pick in My first thought was Chara because six of him at a time would cover just NHL history? It has to be the Penguins, correct? They chose the about every square inch of the ice. It would be like playing one of those second-best player ever, the best player of the 2000s, and a goalie that table hockey games at your friend’s house where he’d broken some of took two teams from worst to first. – Michael O. the pieces and his dad had tried to fix them with pieces of coat hanger wire, but he made them too long and now there was nowhere to go. Oh yeah, it’s the Penguins for sure. I can’t even come up with a We’ve all been there, right? contrarian take here. In fact, you could make a decent case that the two best first overall picks in history both went to the Penguins. Mix in a But then I thought back to the 2006 playoffs, when the Senators lost to decent goaltender and the fact we all know they’re getting Lafreniere this the small, speedy Sabres and Chara looked like a turnstile. That part has year and it’s a no-brainer. kind of been wiped from the Chara canon, but it happened, and he looked bad. We all point and laugh at the Senators for keeping Wade But you got me thinking about who would be next on the list. So let’s Redden instead of Chara, but at the time there were some legitimate rephrase the question as “Which team other than the Penguins got the questions over whether a big defenseman could keep up in a new NHL most value out of the first overall pick?” Here’s my top five: without obstruction and interference. And that was 14 years ago. You’re Not ranked: Montreal Canadiens – They’ve actually had more first overall cloning these guys right now. At 43, wouldn’t Chara get eaten up by a picks than anyone with five, but only ever hit on one of them. That was team full of small speedy guys? I’m not even sure he could intimidate Guy Lafleur with the Seals’ pick in 1971, and he was a legend, but the Johnny Gaudreau all that much, because Gaudreau’s been the smallest other four guys were Garry Monahan, Michel Plasse, Rejean Houle and player on the ice at pretty much every level since he was a kid. Doug Wickenheiser. Everyone’s bigger than him. He’s used to it.

Also not ranked: Ottawa Senators – Three first overall picks in four years, But then I go back to the goaltending, and I think that’s what tips the and they turned them into a bust (Alexandre Daigle), a guy who refused scales to Team Chara. If both teams are going to have newbies in net, to play for them (Bryan Berard) and a solid stay-at-home defenseman give me the one who’s 6-foot-9 over the guy who has to jump to hit the (Chris Phillips). When the guy who didn’t crack 300 points is easily your crossbar. They’d look like those old photos of Darren Pang with Ben top pick, that’s rough. Bishop. Plus Chara still has that howitzer of a slapshot; no beginner goalie is stopping that thing from anywhere on the ice. Team Chara just 5. Tampa Bay Lightning/Toronto Maple Leafs (tie) – The Lightning have has to get one big blast away from their own end, go up 1-0, and then had the top pick three times and got a solid defenseman in Roman collapse everyone in front of the crease to form an impenetrable wall. Hamrlik, a guy who looked like a Hall of Famer for the first decade of his career in Vincent Lecavalier, and a legit franchise player in Steven Sorry, Team Johnny, you’re not winning this one. Stamkos. The Leafs have somehow only had it twice, but they used them If Jack Eichel demands a trade, what should be the Sabres strategy to on Auston Matthews (who’s been one of the most productive young goal have even a chance of winning it? – Sean D. scorers in NHL history) and Wendel Clark (who was this guy). First of all, let’s be clear, Sabres fans: He said “if.” I’m answering an “if.” 4. Buffalo Sabres – They’ve had three, and they produced one slam dunk Nobody is saying this is a likely scenario. It’s a fun hypothetical, and Hall of Famer (Gilbert Perrault), one guy who has a borderline case that’s it, so stay calm. (Pierre Turgeon) and a kid who might be on the way (Rasmus Dahlin). But yeah, when this inevitably happens I think the Sabres have to do a 3. Edmonton Oilers – I thought they’d be higher, but despite four top few things. First, you’ve got to be crystal clear with Eichel that if he wants picks in six years, they didn’t end up with as much as you’d hope. out, he doesn’t get any control over where he goes. If he shows up with a They’ve got the very best player in the world in Connor McDavid, so they list of a few teams he’ll accept a deal to, you say nice try, see you at have to crack the top three, but other than that they got a future MVP training camp. This would be easier in Eichel’s case since he isn’t they gave up on too early (Taylor Hall), a solid player who’s never been allowed to have no-trade protection yet and already signed a long-term elite (Ryan Nugent-Hopkins) and an all-time bust (Nail Yakupov). deal, but it should be a general policy of any player on any team. You 2. New York Islanders – They’ve had four picks and it’s been a mixed can want to stay or you can want to go, but that’s all the say you get and bag. Rick DiPietro was better than you think but became known as a bust if you decide to go then enjoy Winnipeg wherever we decide to send you. thanks to his contract, and Billy Harris is better remembered for being The other key thing is that you absolutely have to manufacture a bidding traded than anything he did as an Islander. But John Tavares was a war. It doesn’t have to be every team in the league, but it has to be a few. legitimate MVP candidate for a big chunk of his decade there, and Denis As soon as you realize that there’s one team emerging as the obvious Potvin was arguably the second-best defenseman of his era and a key favorite, you’re screwed, because they’re going to know it too and start piece of a Cup dynasty. tightening the screws on you. You need at least two teams, preferably 1. Quebec Nordiques/Colorado Avalanche – You did say “franchise”, so I three or four, and ideally a few “mystery teams” that may or may not be can lump them together. The Nords had the pick three years in a row and fake, just to juice the bidding. landed two Hall of Famers in Mats Sundin and Eric Lindros, plus a very That’s why the Nordiques did so well on the Eric Lindros trade. They had solid player in Owen Nolan. None stuck around long, but if you want to the Rangers, Flyers and Blackhawks all going hard, and a few other get into trade trees then the Lindros deal reshaped the team, Nolan teams circling, and it drove up the final price to ridiculous levels. That turned into five years of Sandis Ozolinsh, and Sundin turned into Clark what the Sabres would have to do and I’m sure it’s a lot tougher these who turned into Claude Lemieux, who won the Conn Smythe. Mix in the days where everything gets leaked to an insider within minutes. But as Absolutely. Announce one placeholder honoree, keep it a secret, and soon as they realized they were really only serious with one team, you’ve then play it up big on induction day. No leaks. I want the person got to either make the deal immediately or walk away. smuggled into the building in the trunk of a car, then hustled into a cordoned off room with a blanket over their head. Have a few guys fly Finally, it’s going to be a hard deal to grind through and you’re going to into town just to throw people off the scent. Plant a Daniel Alfredsson be offered a wide mix of prospects and current assets, so make sure you lookalike in the HHOF Tim Hortons for people to post grainy photos of. have a really experienced front office and don’t fire most of your scouting We’re talking WWE-levels of chicanery here, you’ve got to really commit. staff. As for who it should be, I think there’s one clear candidate for this year’s Gold Plan question for you I’ve always been curious about. If a team class: Alexander Mogilny, for three reasons. First, he 100 percent should trades away its first-round pick but doesn’t make the playoffs, how would be in the Hall of Fame. Second, he was the first Soviet star to defect, and their draft position be determined in the Gold Plan (like this year’s the whole cloak-and-dagger scenario I just described isn’t that far off Sharks)? Wouldn’t a team just tank the whole season to prevent the pick from what those players had to go through. And third, we’ve spent the from being a top pick? – Alex last few decades lazily describing literally every Russian star as The Gold Plan, in which we’d award the top pick in the draft to the team “enigmatic” so this feels like a natural progression. that earned the most points after being eliminated from playoff Bonus reason: Mogilny would legitimately hate all of this. It would be like contention, is a great idea and I’ve been beating the drum for years. But trying to get a cat into the carrier for a trip to the vet. I think we need to this is a fair question, so let’s take a look. make this happen.

First, I’d imagine that a team in the Sharks scenario would still go into the The Athletic LOADED: 07.04.2020 Gold Plan standings, same as everyone else. You’re right that they wouldn’t have the same incentive to win, and in fact, might prefer to lose. But I’m not sure the players would really care – trading away a high pick is embarrassing for a GM, but they’re not going to stop trying just to protect his honor. And that’s just down the stretch. Tank a whole season? No player would ever do that. Remember, the Sharks made the conference final last season; we all thought they’d be good this year and we we’re still waiting for them to turn it around until reality set in around Christmas time.

But here’s my closing argument: Even if I’m wrong and everything you described did happen, that means under the Gold Plan we’d have one team every few years that might be tanking down the stretch. Today, we have several teams every year that give up, throw everyone with a pulse on the LTIR and chase the lottery odds. So even at its worst, the Gold Plan is still a big improvement over the current system.

What’s your all-time favorite “the NHL is weird” moment? – Patrick S.

I mean, I basically wrote an entire book on this topic, so asking me to narrow it down to just one is tough. Off the ice, I think I go with the story of The Wheel, i.e. the time the league decided on whether the Canucks or Sabres would get Gilbert Perreault by spinning a giant novelty wheel and then misreading the results. Honorable mentions would include Dave Semenko fighting Muhammad Ali, Harrison Ford preventing Joe Sakic from becoming a Ranger, and the Leafs and Oilers briefly agreeing to swap their entire rosters in the biggest trade in sports history.

On the ice, with all due respect to the donut incident and the time they threw a live chicken wearing a cape onto the ice in L.A., I have to go with the night where they made the Devils and Whalers officiate their own game.

But yeah, the NHL is a very normal and well-run league.

Ken Wregget vs. Allan Bester: Who was the best? – Andrew D.

This is like asking me which one of my children I love more, except that my children can occasionally stop a puck.

I was always a Bester guy. That wasn’t because he was the better goalie, since neither guy was good enough to put up decent numbers on those 1980s Leafs teams. I think I just liked the fact that I was 11 years old and I was bigger than he was. I even forgave him for giving up that overtime bomb to Sergio Momesso in the first playoff game I ever saw live.

But yeah, stats-wise Wregget had a better career. He kept his GAA under 4.00 and had some nice playoff runs, and even had a year where he finished fifth in Vezina voting. And the Leafs somehow traded him for two first-round picks, which to this day remains one of the most confusing trades I can remember. A Flyers team that already had Ron Hextall was like “Hey, we need a backup who’ll almost never play, let’s call up the Leafs and see if we can pry away the guy who’s led the league in losses two years in a row. We’ll give them a first-round pick. OK fine two first- rounders but that’s as high as we go!”

Also, in hindsight, I’m pretty sure Toronto still managed to lose that trade. The 1980s were a great time to be a Leafs fan, thanks for asking.

Should the Hall of Fame take a page from the NHL draft lottery and announce a “mystery inductee” during the ceremony? And if so, who should the first unknown HHOFer be? – Timothy M. 1187321 Websites

Sportsnet.ca / Potential CBA modifications emerging as NHL/NHLPA continue negotiations

Elliotte Friedman | July 3, 2020, 4:33 PM

As the NHL/NHLPA continue to grind their way through a return-to- play/CBA agreement, terms continue to seep out. Here’s some of what we’re hearing:

The updated rules will carry through 2025-26, although there is a provision for a one-year extension if more than $125 million in escrow is owed to the league. The salary cap for 2020-21 is $81.5 million. The NHL/NHLPA are talking about keeping it there until revenues hit $4.8 billion. At that point, they will use the two years prior to calculate the cap number — meaning the 2022-23 ceiling will be based on 2020-21 revenues. That will give more certainty and planning.

Cap on escrow is 20 per cent next season. Somewhere between 14-18 per cent in 2021-22, depending on 2020-21 revenue. Then we go 10 per cent in 2022-23, with a maximum of six per cent over the remaining term (if there is an extra year, the escrow cap will be at nine per cent). There will be a 10 per cent salary deferral next season. It will be repaid during the final three years of this CBA.

Olympic participation for 2022 and 2026 is guaranteed pending agreement with the IOC. This year’s playoff fund (a bonus pool of money players earn the longer their team plays) will be doubled to $32 million. It is much higher this year since more teams are eligible and players are coming into a bubble during a pandemic. It will go to $20 million next season. The minimum salary will rise to $750,000 next season and reach $800,000 by the end of this deal.

There are some interesting modifications:

• No-move and no-trade clauses now travel with a player who has agreed to lift one, even if they haven’t kicked in (previously, the acquiring team had to agree).

• Players aged 35 and over can sign multi-year deals that are flat or ascending and there will be no cap hit if they retire before the deal is up (previously, the cap hit stayed no matter what).

• Year-by-year variability: six-year contracts that are front-loaded and worth at least 7.5 per cent of the cap cannot exceed 35 per cent between the highest and lowest salary amounts. Rules for other contracts remain the same (I’ve heard players and teams will consider back-loading new contracts because escrow is capped at a lower number and cash flow should improve for clubs).

• No changes to signing bonuses

*There are no more conditional picks in trades based on a player re- signing with the acquiring team. For example, the New Jersey Devils’ current third-rounder from Arizona in the Taylor Hall deal upgrades if he re-signs with the Coyotes. Agents and NHLPA staff felt it hurt players’ value.

As for return to play, anyone has the right to opt out without penalty. There will be pre-testing before everyone travels to the hub, and in the final week before arrival everyone will be asked to stay at home as much as possible, besides going to the rink. Once there, testing will take place on a daily basis, as each team will have a set time each day depending on their schedule.

Face covering will be mandatory at all times in the bubble, with social distancing practiced — including restrictions on the number of people allowed in the lobby and on elevators. Everyone will get their own room.

And, there will be rules if someone needs to leave for an emergency, in terms of if re-entry will be allowed and the conditions for that.

Obviously, there will be more, but this gives you an idea of where everything is going.

Sportsnet.ca LOADED: 07.04.2020 1187322 Websites Olympian, will bring speed, size, and muscle to not only complement these linemates but star in his own right. All three own complete, two-way games that would make this combination tough to play against.

Sportsnet.ca / Projecting Team Canada 2022: Crosby and McDavid Extras: Jonathan Huberdeau, Mark Scheifele together at last You know you’ve got a deep pool of talent when these two talented playmakers are your “extras.” There’s not a line in this group Huberdeau couldn’t flank seamlessly — he’d be particularly fun to watch if paired Emily Sadler | July 3, 2020, 4:05 PM with McDavid and MacKinnon. The Panthers forward doesn’t always get a lot of attention playing in his small NHL market but could shine on the

international stage if given the chance. Scheifele, too, is the kind of Hockey fans got some hopeful news earlier this week. versatile centreman that will be ready to run with anyone.

As CBA talks continue between the NHL and NHLPA ahead of a final Taylor Hall hasn’t had an easy time following up his remarkable 2017-18 return-to-play agreement to conclude the 2019-20 campaign, one of the MVP campaign, so he’s on the bubble. Meanwhile, soon-to-be NHLer big talking points has been Olympic participation. Alexis Lafreniere’s fate will be decided with the lottery balls later this summer. Should he find himself on a ready-made contender and playing Word is the approval of the new CBA would mean NHLers being cleared with stars off the hop, there’s a good chance he’s on the bubble to make to compete at the Beijing 2022 Olympic Games after being held from the his Olympic team debut as an NHL sophomore even if just as a reserve. 2018 tournament. DEFENCEMEN While no agreement has been finalized just yet, this news is enough to get us all daydreaming about what that Canadian Olympic team might There’s a changing of the guard happening here, and as strange as it look like. feels — even downright wrong — not to feature veterans like Shea Weber and Brent Burns among those leading Canada’s d-corps, the It proved to be a fun — though perplexing — puzzle to piece together, future of the country’s blue line arrives in 2022. Veterans Pietrangelo and and the result is a fast, skilled squad featuring a fleet of fresh faces while Doughty bring a wealth of experience (and three Olympic gold medals a handful of veteran holdovers from the 2010 and 2014 squads help between them) to the group and help steer this fast, mobile unit. steer the ship. P1: Alex Pietrangelo (A) – Cale Makar Here we go: Makar’s rookie season was so strong, he’d be on the squad today let Jeff Marek and Elliotte Friedman talk to a lot of people around the hockey alone two years from now when he’s still just 23. His mobility is world, and then they tell listeners all about what they’ve heard and what unparalleled and his ability to drive play from the blue line makes him a they think about it. no-brainer for the first power-play unit (hello, McDavid and MacKinnon!). Pairing him with a seasoned veteran and leader like Pietrangelo will only FORWARDS further his development and let him learn from one of the best. A mix of veterans and debutants makes this a dynamic group with plenty P2: Morgan Rielly – Dougie Hamilton of potential for shuffling lines. Crosby and McDavid, together at last, form the greatest one-two punch in the game today, while speedy In a defence corps centred around mobility, this is a fun pairing. It’s also complementary players round out the roster. an opportunity for both young veterans to grow into leadership roles on the big ice. LINE 1: Brad Marchand – Sidney Crosby (C) – Patrice Bergeron P3: Shea Theodore – Drew Doughty These three were a revelation when we saw them together during the 2016 World Cup of Hockey, and that kind of elite chemistry warrants Theodore has really found his footing in Vegas, and should he build upon repeating – even six years later, as they become one of the oldest trios (if his career year in 2019-20 he’ll be a solid force in 2022. Doughty’s not the oldest trio) in the 2022 tournament. Captain Crosby and linemate importance in this group, meanwhile, cannot be understated. He brings a Bergeron bring two Olympic gold medals apiece, while all three know little sandpaper and a lot of skill, and while his game isn’t what it was a what it takes to win it all in the NHL. few years ago, the two-time gold medalist and Stanley Cup champ brings a wealth of experience that will prove invaluable for this next group of While the Olympic version of ‘The Perfection Line’ will set the tone for international team leaders. Team Canada, it’s the second line — or rather, we should probably just call it ‘1A’ – that will set the pace… Extras: Josh Morrissey, Thomas Chabot

LINE 2: Mathew Barzal – Connor McDavid (A) – Nathan MacKinnon Morrissey should be the first name called upon here, as his strong skating and dependability could complement any of his Olympic If the first line listed is what we expect to see, this one’s what we all want teammates right now. With a little more seasoning, Chabot will likely be a to see. There simply wouldn’t be a faster, more exciting line to watch in national team leader in another four-year cycle. A big body like Colton the whole tournament – it would be like Team North America all over Parayko could be on the bubble here, too, to replace some of the size again, with higher stakes, faster skates, and a fresh face in Barzal who lost with the replacement of some veterans. had not yet emerged on the scene in 2016. Senior Writer Ryan Dixon and NHL Editor Rory Boylen always give it LINE 3: Steven Stamkos – Brayden Point – Mitch Marner 110%, but never rely on clichés when it comes to podcasting. Instead, Let’s call this one The Atlantic Line, as we bring together stars from two they use a mix of facts, fun and a varied group of hockey voices to cover of the most high-powered offences in the division. Stamkos was a young Canada’s most beloved game. reserve for Vancouver 2010 and was forced to watch the 2014 GOALTENDERS tournament from afar as he was sidelined with an injury — there’s not a hockey fan on Earth who won’t be happy to see him finally set foot on the No. 1: Carey Price big ice. Pairing him here with Point, who has emerged as a top young centre, brings well-established chemistry and allows Stamkos to get When you have a roster with as many new faces as this one, it’s comfortable in his office at the left hashmarks, and the idea of seeing important to have a solid veteran backing them up. Price hasn’t been the Marner set free with these two — think of the one-timer setups! — is too same Price we’ve been used to seeing, but he’s still the guy so many fun a scenario to not run away with. NHLers point to as the best in the game and no doubt has some of his best hockey still ahead. LINE 4: John Tavares – Ryan O’Reilly – Mark Stone No. 2: Jordan Binnington Shifting Tavares over to the wing here completes what might just be the most versatile trio in this group. The Maple Leafs captain could easily We know this Cup-winning netminder can step into a high-stakes move over to centre for ready-made chemistry with Marner or his old pal situation and hold down the crease. Does he look nervous? (No.) Barzal, while reigning Conn Smythe winner O’Reilly finally gets to bring No. 3: Carter Hart his big-game ability to the Olympic stage. Stone, another long-awaited Even if he doesn’t play, the experience of soaking up the highest level of competition would be truly invaluable for the young Flyer, which is why he gets the nod over a more established netminder like Braden Holtby, who has struggled at times with consistency and might therefore be the odd man out.

Sportsnet.ca LOADED: 07.04.2020 1187323 Websites The initial diagnosis was Jones would miss eight-to-10 weeks while recovering and he was able to resume skating in April. On June 18, the Blue Jackets activated the 25-year-old off injured reserve.

Sportsnet.ca / Nine injured stars on track to return for the Stanley Cup Jones led the Blue Jackets in ice time, skating more than 25 minutes a Playoffs game before his injury, and should return to being a key contributor in all areas of the ice when the Jackets face the Maple Leafs in their play-in series.

Josh Beneteau | July 3, 2020, 11:30 AM Dougie Hamilton, Carolina Hurricanes

2019-20 season: 47 GP | 14 G | 26 A | 40 P | +30

The 2019-20 Stanley Cup Playoffs will be unlike any other for a number Hamilton was putting together a Norris Trophy campaign before he of reasons. The games will be played without fans, in centralized hub fractured his left fibula in the middle of January. At the time of his injury, cities and will feature a new play-in round. But one other important Hamilton was fourth in points, tied for the lead in goals and had the wrinkle to the proceedings will be the fact that almost every roster should second-best plus/minus rating among all defencemen. be fully healthy. No timetable was initially given after Hamilton’s surgery, but head coach Normally the playoffs begin only days after the grind of an 82-game Rod Brind’Amour said at the time that he didn’t expect Hamilton to return season and every team is down a player or two (or more) with various this season. In early April, general manager Don Waddell confirmed injuries. Now, after a four-month layoff, many of those injured players are Hamilton would be ready to play when the season resumes, adding that back at full strength and ready to help their teams compete for the had the playoffs happened as scheduled he would have started skating Stanley Cup. in late March.

Before play gets underway, let’s take a look at some of the now-healthy “It’s all based on him, but 100 per cent he’ll be back,” Waddell said at the impact players who will be giving their teams a big boost this post- time. “If we were playing today, we would have sped up that on-the-ice season. performance over the last couple weeks. So he’s ready to go.”

Steven Stamkos, Tampa Bay Lightning The Hurricanes began Phase 2 small group skates at PNC Arena on June 30 and Hamilton was a full participant. 2019-20 season: 57 GP | 29 G | 37 A | 66 P | +14 The ‘Canes blue line will look very different come playoff time. Along with Stamkos was on pace for his second-consecutive 40 goal season (and the addition of Hamilton, trade deadline acquisitions Sami Vatanen and the sixth of his career) when he went down with a core-muscle injury in Brady Skjei will also be in the mix. Vatanen has yet to play a game for late February. The Lightning captain had surgery on March 2 and was the Hurricanes due to a lower-body injury suffered in early February. originally expected to miss six-to-eight weeks. Jacob Markstrom, Vancouver Canucks Head coach Jon Cooper said in April that he expects Stamkos to play when the NHL returns. 2019-20 season: 43 GP | 23 W | 2.75 GAA | .918 SVP | 2 SO

“He improves every single day,” Cooper said, according to NHL.com. “I The Canucks’ MVP will be back in net just in time for an important play-in have no idea when things are going to get back together, but we have series with the Wild. anticipated that all of our guys will be ready to go when that time comes. We know it’s not coming tomorrow and probably not next week, but when Markstrom suffered a lower-body injury that required a minor procedure the time comes, we anticipate everyone will be ready. in late February and didn’t play another game before the pause. However, in late March GM Jim Benning confirmed to Sportsnet 650 that “I know he’s worked hard to get back. A lot of it had to do with rest, which Markstrom would be fully healthy when play resumes. he’s been getting.” “He’s done his rehab and… he’s ready to go if we start playing again,” Besides getting their star sniper back, the Lightning will also have 2018 Benning said. Norris Trophy winner Victor Hedman back on the blue line. Hedman missed the Lightning’s last two games before the pause with a lower- The Canucks finished the regular season as the seventh-best team in the body injury but was considered day-to-day at the time. Western Conference thanks in large part to Markstrom’s play, which some consider Vezina Trophy-worthy. Getting their star goalie back for a Vladimir Tarasenko, St. Louis Blues five-game series with Minnesota could be the difference between winning and losing for Vancouver. 2019-20 season: 10 GP | 3 G | 7 A | 10 P | -2 Mark Stone, Vegas Golden Knights The defending Stanley Cup champion Blues start the return-to-play tournament as the top team in the Western Conference and they did it 2019-20 season: 65 GP | 21 G | 42 A | 63 P | +15 despite not having their top sniper for almost the entire season. But Tarasenko will be back when play resumes this summer, giving the Blues The Golden Knights were at risk of not having one of their most important another weapon as they look to stay on top. players for the first two rounds of the playoffs. Now because of the pandemic, Stone is healthy and ready to contribute. Tarasenko had scored at least 33 goals in each of the last five seasons before this one was lost to a shoulder injury in October. Last season in Stone was originally sidelined with a lower-body injury at the end of the playoffs, he had 11 goals and 17 points. February and was expected to miss four weeks. However, he recently revealed that his recovery took 10 weeks but he was able to continue The 28-year-old has been participating in the Blues’ Phase 2 small-group getting treatment in Vegas during the pause. That treatment included skates and says the extra time off has given him more time to rebuild the some skating and now he’s participating in the Golden Knights’ Phase 2 strength in his shoulder. sessions.

“I was really close to coming back and playing when the season was “You’re so excited to get a little bit of time off and after a month you just delayed so I got some extra time to recover,” Tarasenko said, according want to get back with your friends and play some hockey,” Stone said in to NHL.com. “Not even recover, extra time practicing and making it more early June. “It was just exciting to be back and share a couple laughs strong. Everything is good.” with the guys and get back skating.”

Seth Jones, Columbus Blue Jackets Max Pacioretty, who led the Golden Knights in goals and points and was also injured at the time of the pause, is expected to be ready when 2019-20 season: 56 GP | 6 G | 24 A | 30 P | +10 hockey returns, too. Every season Jones continues to grow into one of the NHL’s premier Jake Guentzel, Pittsburgh Penguins defencemen and this season was no different. But in early February he slid hard into a net in a game against the Avalanche and suffered a 2019-20 season: 39 GP | 20 G | 23 A | 43 P | +11 serious ankle injury that required surgery. Guentzel was really starting to establish himself as a star winger in the first half of the season. One year after scoring 40 goals, the 25-year-old was on pace to set new career-highs in goals and points and, at the time of injury, he was the top scorer on a team that includes Sidney Crosby and Evgeni Malkin.

But shoulder surgery on New Year’s Eve derailed all of that. Guentzel’s initial prognosis was a four-to-six month recovery, effectively guaranteeing he wouldn’t be able to play in the playoffs. Now, he’s doing everything he can to make sure he can take the ice with his teammates when the time comes.

“I’m committed to working hard and strengthening the shoulder as much as I can,” Guentzel said after skating with teammates in Phase 2 in early June. “I’m trying to get back to pre-injury [level] as much as I can. There’s always that doubt. You never know what’s going to happen with an injury, any sort of injury. I’m committed to putting myself in the best possible position that I can.”

While Guentzel hasn’t officially been given the green light to return, all signs point to him being in the starting lineup when the Penguins face the Canadiens in their play-in series. Pittsburgh is already heavily favoured in that matchup so adding another scoring weapon in Guentzel would just be a bonus for the Penguins.

Mikko Rantanen, Colorado Avalanche

2019-20 season: 42 GP | 19 G | 22 A | 41 P | -2

The 2019-20 season will be considered a disappointment for Rantanen even though he scored at nearly a point per game during it. The 23-year- old missed 16 games early in the season with an ankle injury and at the time of the pause had been out almost another month with a shoulder problem.

Now after four months of quarantine, the power forward is ready to help the Avalanche chase the Cup. His back-to-back 80-plus point seasons show what kind of weapon he can be when healthy.

Rantanen returned to Colorado and skated with teammates as part of Phase 2 returns on June 29. If all goes well, he’ll be in the opening lineup when the Avalanche play either the Blues, Stars or Golden Knights later this summer.

The Avalanche were battling injuries to a few important players at the time of the pause. Nathan MacKinnon, Philipp Grubauer and Nazem Kadri all missed time in early March but all are expected to be healthy when the season resumes.

Chris Kreider, New York Rangers

2019-20 season: 63 GP | 24 G | 21 A | 45 P | +13

How important is Chris Kreider to the Rangers? The club awarded him with a seven-year, $45.5 million extension at the trade deadline instead of renting him to another team. At the time, it looked like the Rangers would be on the outside looking in but in the extended return-to-play format anything is suddenly possible.

Kreider suffered a foot injury shortly after signing his extension and was expected to miss four-to-six weeks. In late April he told reporters that he was fully healed and since Phase 2 skates opened in early June he’s been on the ice with teammates.

“My foot feels good,” Kreider said in April. “[My] foot was better a few weeks ago. I’m able to work on rehabbing it and getting it back to where it was now.”

The Rangers, led by Hart Trophy candidate Artemi Panarin, are considered a dark horse to go on a run and should challenge the Hurricanes in their play-in series. Having Kreider’s speed and big game intensity in the lineup will be a big help if they are to pull off the upset.

Sportsnet.ca LOADED: 07.04.2020 1187324 Websites injury, getting back to games, and it felt like I was even better after the injury."

Because you were stronger physically? TSN.CA / Anton Lundell aims to be NHL's next two-way Finnish force "Yeah, a little bit, but my whole game, it felt like I had more energy and was more ready."

Mark Masters Young centres often struggle with faceoffs, but you won 53.5 per cent of your draws this season. What's the key to that success?

"It's always been something that I've wanted to be good at. When you get Anton Lundell came in No. 12 on TSN Hockey Insider Bob McKenzie's the puck you can play with it the right way, so it's important to get the final list of top prospects. TSN director of scouting Craig Button had the pucks. It's something I work a lot on in the practice and after practice. HIFK centre at No. 16 in his latest rankings. You have to be ready and strong with the stick."

But Lundell believes he'll be picked higher than both those projections Your father Jan was a goalie. Why did you choose to play forward? whenever the National Hockey League gets around to holding its 2020 draft. "It was more fun to score goals."

"I think I'm going to go top 10," he said confidently. — Steve Kournianos (@TheDraftAnalyst) February 21, 2020

Whatever the number ends up being, Lundell will almost certainly be the Do you have a favourite memory of growing up around rinks with your top Finnish player selected. father?

"It’s a big honour to be the first guy from Finland," he said. "I have shown "Yeah, 2011 when he won the Finnish gold with HIFK, my team now, and to everyone I can play good against men in Finland and also against the team I grew up watching. It was a special moment, winning gold in [players] my own age around the world in international tournaments, so I Helsinki. I was too young to be there all the time, but after the final game have a good feeling for the draft." I was there."

Lundell, who produced 28 points in 44 games this season, may lack Your dad is the goalie coach for HIFK now, what's it like having him some of the offensive sparkle of other top prospects this year, but he’s working alongside you? more than held his own while suiting up in Finland's top professional "It's different, but it's really fun to have him there and he’s been a big help league. Lundell believes his well-rounded nature is what helps set him with my career. He’s helped me so much." apart from other prospects. Does he help you understand how to read goalies? "I want to be a trusted guy," he said. "I can produce offence and, at the same time, play a really good two-way game. I can play really good on "We’ve talked a lot about how goalies play, and I'm really interested to the power play and penalty kill as well." know how the goalie reacts in the net."

And Lundell, who stands 6-foot-1 and 185 pounds, believes he'll be ready Your dad actually suited up in a game this season, becoming the oldest to do that in the NHL sooner than later. player in league history. How did that happen?

"In the beginning it was hard," he admits when asked about the challenge "One goalie got sick just before the game and we did not have any time against older competition, "but I got more and more comfortable. Maybe to ask our younger [junior team] goalie or anyone else, so he had to put one more year here in Finland and then I'll be ready. Of course, you the gear on as the second goalie. Then, when we had a good lead, the never know what happens, but there are only good options in front of me coach wanted to give him the last minute. It was a special day and really for next season." fun to remember."

TSN spoke to Lundell via Zoom this week from his family's summer home Were you hoping it would happen? What were you thinking? in Finland. The 18-year-old expressed admiration for Florida centre and fellow Finn Aleksander Barkov and reflected on his gold medal win at the "I didn't think about it before the game, but then during the game when I 2019 World Juniors in Vancouver. saw the scoreboard I was thinking that maybe it could happen and when it happened it was fun to be on the ice. The win and celebration was The following is an edited transcript of the interview. something I remember."

What's the best part of your game? Was your dad nervous?

"My hockey IQ. I can read the game very well and I know where to be "I think he was a little bit nervous, because he hasn't been on the ice and when and, of course, I find my linemates with good passes. So, much in the last six years." that's the biggest thing in my game." — Liiga (@smliiga) January 9, 2020 Is it because your dad played? Why is your hockey IQ so high? You were the youngest player on Finland's World Junior team in 2019, "Maybe it's from growing up at rinks. Since I was born I always enjoyed but still played an important role in Vancouver. What did you do well on being on the ice and in the rinks. I want to be one step ahead on the ice the big stage? and in games, so I try to be smarter and look where everyone is on the ice and find my teammates." "I just played my own game. I didn't try to be anyone else. I played to my strengths and it was a fun tournament. We had a good line [with Eeli Craig Button compares your game style to Montreal Canadiens centre Tolvanen and Kaapo Kakko] and a really good team as well. We had Phillip Danault. Who do you consider to be your NHL role model? some tough games, but we did win it in the end. It's something I'll never forget." "I have always liked Aleksander Barkov. When he played here in Finland I was watching him a lot and I think we have some of the same things in What was it like beating Canada in overtime in the quarterfinals? our games. I like his style." "It was crazy. Like, 18,000 red jerseys screaming the whole game and What's your favourite part of Barkov's game? then when we scored it all went quiet. Nobody said anything."

"Hockey IQ." You picked up an assist on Kakko's winning goal late in the third period of the gold-medal game. What do you remember? — TSN Hockey (@TSNHockey) June 17, 2020 "Well, there were one or two minutes left. We won the faceoff and our D How much did the elbow injury in November impact your season? put the puck in front of the net and then it went to Kakko and he scored. "It was a hard time. I was away from games for seven weeks, but I It's a fond memory." recovered good and it made me stronger. I did really good after the #WJC: There it is -- Kaapo Kakko pots what turns into the golden goal as Finland beats Team USA 3-2 to win WJC gold. What a tournament.

Congrats to Finland. They really were the beast team. pic.twitter.com/CqfIDNw1fw

— Steve Kournianos (@TheDraftAnalyst) January 6, 2019

Where do you keep your gold medal?

"It's home in Espoo. It's in a special place in my room."

Do you look at it for inspiration and motivation?

"Not that much. You can see it, but I'm not looking that much."

Because there's more to do?

"Yeah, we must win more."

TSN.CA LOADED: 07.04.2020 1187325 World Leagues News

Zero positive coronavirus tests ahead of F1 return

The first race takes place in Austria on Sunday.

By Press Association Published: 4 July 2020 - 8.08am

UK World F1

Formula One organisers have announced zero positive tests for coronavirus ahead of the sport’s return this weekend.

After a long delay due to the global pandemic, the first grand prix of the year will take place in Austria at Spielberg’s Red Bull Ring on Sunday and the restart has been boosted by news of a full round of negative tests.

“The FIA and Formula 1 can today confirm that between Friday 26th June and Thursday 2nd July, 4,032 drivers, teams and personnel were tested for Covid-19,” said a joint statement.

Lewis Hamilton wore a mask to face the media this week

“Of these, zero people have tested positive.”

Strict protocols have been implemented for the restart of racing, with teams being tested prior to flying out from their respective countries and personnel attending the circuit undergoing a test every five days, while there are daily temperature checks prior to entering the facility.

In the build-up, team personnel have also been kept in bubbles, away from other teams and even away from colleagues in different departments.

LOADED: 07.04.2020 1187326 World Leagues News According to reports, Wimbledon paid around $3 million per year as part of the policy.

"Of course we are fortunate to have insurance," All England chief Tennis: Australian Open loses millions in coronavirus pandemic executive Richard Lewis told The Times. "It helps but it doesn't solve all insurance technicality the problems."

The $51 million could be the best money Wimbledon ever spent while the By: Tyson Otto for news.com.au Australian Open won't get to see a cent.

LOADED: 07.04.2020

The Australian Open has missed out on a pandemic insurance policy for the 2021 event because of a technicality in its pandemic protection paperwork.

It was revealed this week that the Australian Open had joined Wimbledon in taking out pandemic insurance to safeguard the year's first grand slam from freak pandemics like the spread of Covid-19.

However, the Tennis Australia tournament will not be eligible for any insurance payout next year because the policy will expire in 2020 — and Tennis Australia has not been given an option to renew the deal in the current climate.

It means the Australian Open is unprotected should the 2021 Open be derailed by coronavirus restrictions and financial shortfalls.

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A Tennis Australia spokesperson has confirmed to The Age that the policy will expire this year and that Tennis Australia will look to renew its pandemic protection when insurance providers again offer the product post-coronavirus.

"Although we were able to have pandemic coverage as part of our policy over the past few years, the current situation with Covid-19 makes it prohibitive going forward, certainly in the short term," a spokesperson said.

The technicality, which could cost The Australian Open hundreds of millions, has been labelled "brutal" by New York Times tennis reporter Ben Rothenberg.

"The Australian Open had the incredible foresight to pay for pandemic insurance," Rothenberg wrote on Twitter.

"But it's set to expire before next year's tournament. Brutal."

Tennis Australia chief executive Craig Tiley said in May he was hopeful of the 2020-21 summer of tennis proceeding as planned, despite the growing threat of the coronavirus extending into next year.

"It will either be through crowds that are social distancing maybe only from Australia and New Zealand, or by then maybe some international crowds," Tiley told Channel 7.

"It's hard to know but we are preparing for all of that. We're also preparing to scale back if we have to but the full plan is to have an Australian Open in January and to have our lead-in events."

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Tiley, the tournament director, also said the Australian Open could absorb the hit of the event going ahead without any spectators.

It comes as the US Open and the French Open continue to prepare to be staged later this year.

Roland Garros was the first grand slam to reschedule its 2020 event because of the coronavirus, moving to a September schedule.

It will be played just one week after the 2020 US Open concludes on September 13.

Wimbledon earlier this year announced that the 2020 event would not be staged for the first time since World War 2 in 1945.

Wimbledon is also set to come away with more than $200 million in an insurance payout after also having the incredible foresight to take out pandemic insurance following the SARS scare of 2002.

In figures yet to be confirmed by Wimbledon officials, the sport's most prestigious event will receive between $200m and $500m after taking out pandemic protection for more than 17 years. 1187327 World Leagues News

Jimmie Johnson tests positive for coronavirus, is first NASCAR driver to confirm he has COVID-19

By Gabriel Fernandez

Jul 3, 2020 at 10:53 pm ET

Watch Now: Kurt Busch Joins CBS Sports HQ (6:39)

Seven-time NASCAR Cup Series champion Jimmie Johnson has tested positive for coronavirus. Johnson is the first NASCAR driver to test positive for the respiratory disease, and will have to miss this weekend's race at Indianapolis Motor Speedway as a result. Johnson is reportedly asymptomatic, but will not be able to return to the sport cleared by a physician, according to Hendrick Motorsports. He was tested today after his wife tested positive for the disease.

In a statement released by NASCAR, Johnson said his first priority is the health and safety of his loved ones and teammates are his first priority.

"I've never missed a race in my Cup career, but I know it's going to be very hard to watch from the sidelines when I'm supposed to be out there competing. Although this situation is extremely disappointing, I'm going to come back ready to win races and put ourselves in playoff contention."

This diagnosis throws a wrench into Johnson's goal of being one of three drivers win at Indianapolis five times. Jeff Gordon and Michael Schumacher are the only other two who have accomplished this feat. Johnson, who is currently 12th in the Cup Series standings and holding onto an active driver record of 663 consecutive Cup Series starts, was set to retire at the end of the season. He was also set to test an IndyCar track next week, a plan that's also naturally been scrapped.

Justin Allgaier is set to be Johnson's replacement and will drive the No. 48 Chevy on Sunday. He is a full-time driver in the Xfinity Series in the No. 7 car for JR Motorsports, which is co-owned by Hendrick, the owner of Johnson's car.

This positive test not only means missing this week's race, but potentially missing out on the Cup race at Kentucky and the All-Star race at Bristol. cbssports.com/LOADED: 07.04.2020 1187328 World Leagues News more than 50,500 confirmed new cases on Thursday alone, a single-day record.

Cases are surging in Florida, too. The state had more than 178,000 Lakers assistant Lionel Hollins, Pelicans assistant Jeff Bzdelik won’t confirmed cases as of Friday afternoon, and recorded more than 10,000 attend restart due to COVID-19 new cases on Thursday alone — a single-day record. Orange County, where Disney World is, had more than 12,000 cases.

Ryan Young The season is scheduled to resume play on July 30.

More from Yahoo Sports: LOADED: 07.04.2020

A pair of key NBA assistants will not be with their teams when play resumes this month at Walt Disney World near Orlando, Florida, due to health concerns related to COVID-19.

Both Los Angeles Lakers assistant Lionel Hollins and New Orleans Pelicans assistant Jeff Bzdelik have opted to sit out the league restart as they are both at a higher risk of contracting the coronavirus.

Lionel Hollins not joining Lakers

Hollins, 66, was “red-flagged” due to an underlying health concern, according to Yahoo Sports’ Chris Haynes. He is also above the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s age threshold, which automatically puts him at a higher risk.

Los Angeles Lakers assistant coach Lionel Hollins was “red-flagged” as a health concern and will not join the team in Orlando for the NBA restart, league sources tell Yahoo Sports.

— Chris Haynes (@ChrisBHaynes) July 3, 2020

Hollins, per Haynes, was disappointed that he will not attend but knows it is the right decision.

The move, per the report, was not due to his age.

Hollins is in his first season on the bench with the Lakers, though has been coaching in the league since 1988. He’s served as an assistant for the Phoenix Suns, Vancouver Grizzlies and Memphis Grizzlies, while also briefly serving as the head coach for the Grizzlies and Brooklyn Nets.

[ Coronavirus: How the sports world is responding to the pandemic ]

“There are several members of our staff that we’re not going to be able to bring into the bubble that, quite frankly, we need in the bubble,” Lakers coach Frank Vogel said Thursday, via ESPN. “But the environment just doesn’t allow us to do that and that’s just part of the pandemic life and the situation we’re in.”

Jeff Bzdelik not joining Pelicans

Bzdelik’s agent confirmed to ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski on Friday that he will not join New Orleans in Orlando. The decision was reportedly made after Bzdelik consulted with team physicians.

The 67-year-old is also above the CDC’s age threshold for an increased risk.

Bzdelik is in his first season with the Pelicans, and has also been coaching in the league since 1988. He’s served as an assistant for the Washington Bullets, Miami Heat, Memphis Grizzlies and Houston Rockets, and had a three-year stint leading the Denver Nuggets from 2002-05.

A decision has not yet been made about Pelicans head coach Alvin Gentry.

Gentry is one of three coaches in the league older than 65, along with San Antonio Spurs coach Gregg Popovich, 71, and Rockets coach Mike D’Antoni, 69.

"My plan right now is to be in Orlando, and I'm looking forward to it, really,” Gentry said Monday, via ESPN. “I think as the season was put on hiatus we were playing really good basketball, and hopefully we can get back to that. That's why I'm not treating it like a training camp, I'm treating it like picking up where we left off when the season went on hiatus."

Both Bzdelik and Hollins are expected to continue helping their respective teams during the restart remotely.

There were more than 2.8 million confirmed cases of the coronavirus in the United States as of Friday afternoon, according to The New York Times, and nearly 130,000 deaths attributed to it. The country recorded 1187329 World Leagues News “If you want to have sports this year, you have to be flexible on all fronts,” Morgan said. “If we want to have sports look exactly like it has for the last 20 years, that is not realistic and sports won’t happen this year. So High school football coaches grappling with positive COVID-19 tests at something needs to happen.” several programs Playing football in the fall has further implications for some. Thurman called the sport the “crown jewel of any athletics department and of the UHSAA.” He added that the athletes need some normalcy in their lives, By Alex Vejar and playing will help achieve that.

For Farmington High coach Daniel Coats, it’s imperative that football happens this season. Positive COVID-19 tests at several Utah high school football programs have caused some coaches to doubt the upcoming season will start on “I truly believe that high school football needs to have the season this time. year because it’s such a major player in a ton of people’s lives,” Coats said. “It will truly put people back at ease and take away a lot of the fear A staff member from Herriman High’s football team recently tested about life that’s going around.” positive, causing the program to shut down and go into quarantine through Tuesday. But that was just one program that’s been affected. Salt Lake Tribune LOADED: 07.04.2020 Jody Morgan, president of the Utah High School Football Coaches Association and coach of Riverton High, said he knows of six schools that have been affected by positive tests among players or staff, including Granger, Corner Canyon and Layton.

Morgan said he’s scheduled to have a meeting with the Utah High School Activities Association on Tuesday to discuss whether the football season can start on time, and what contingencies are available if it can’t.

But the sentiment to start on time is not unanimous among coaches.

“I am still very nervous that the season will not go on to schedule,” Taylorsville coach Joseph Johnson said. “And in some regards, I don’t think that we really should be playing until it’s absolute safe for everybody to enjoy the season.”

Football teams all across the state have started summer workouts, which are governed under the rules of individual school districts. The UHSAA’s oversight takes over again July 27, and games start Aug. 14.

The remainder of the spring season was canceled by the UHSAA due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and there’s been some adjustments to offseason moratoriums based on the sport. But the potential cancellation of the fall season has not been a topic of much discussion of yet.

Others, however, believe the season will start as planned.

“Unless something happens at the collegiate level, I do believe that football will happen on time,” said Patrick Thurman, Corner Canyon High’s athletic director. “Kids have been practicing, coaches preparing, and due to weather, we can’t really start any later to finish before the snow falls.”

Thurman did not specify if a Corner Canyon player or staff member tested positive for the novel coronavirus. But he did acknowledge the program was affected by it.

Christopher Williams, director of communication and operations at Davis School District, where Layton is, said parts of the district have been affected by COVID-19. But due to federal privacy laws, he did not elaborate further.

“Has COVID-19 affected summer activities? Yes,” Williams said. “As far as I know, at least four student groups have been affected by the virus. … the district will not share information regarding any student and their personal health situation. The district will also not identify any specific student group.”

Morgan pointed his attention to how schools or sports programs respond when a positive test emerges. If an entire team has to shut down due to one positive, he sees that situation as untenable in regards to having a season.

“If we have to shut down these programs for 14 days every positive test, the reality of having a football season is bleak,” Morgan said.

Morgan also mentioned that because it appears teenagers are less affected by COVID-19 compared to other age groups, perhaps only dealing with the people who tested positive would be enough. And if that teenager lives with someone who is more vulnerable, for example, the risk could be alleviated by either that athlete or the vulnerable person finding somewhere else to live temporarily, Morgan said.

The situation is far from perfect, he said, and some measures will have to taken. 1187330 World Leagues News

MLB’s first round of coronavirus testing shows low positivity rate

By Todd Dybas July 03, 2020 5:10 PM

An enormous question hovered over the first day of workouts across Major League Baseball on Friday: who would test positive for coronavirus?

The league and MLBPA jointly released the first round of testing results late Friday. They are encouraging. But also just one step.

Only 38 individuals -- 31 players and seven staff members -- tested positive out of 3,185 samples collected and tested. That’s a 1.2 percent positivity rate, well below the recently surging national average of 7.4 percent, according to John Hopkins University.

No one on the Nationals has tested positive yet, according to Davey Martinez. Across the league, 19 of the 30 teams had an individual test positive in the first round of results.

Three players in the Nationals’ original 60-man player pool have opted not to play this season. Ryan Zimmerman and Joe Ross decided earlier in the week to sit out. Veteran catcher Welington Castillo chose later in the week to stay in the Dominican Republic instead of play.

“I didn’t talk to Welington,” Mike Rizzo said Friday. “He spoke to Davey and one of our assistant GMs. But I had a long conversation with Zim. Those are tough decisions, kind of courageous decisions in my mind. The easy path is to try to grind it out and take your chances. But these two guys, Joe and Zim, felt it wasn’t worth the risk. We support both of them. These decisions were tough for them. We certainly didn’t try to talk them out of it, by any way, shape or form. We supported them greatly and admire them for it, because these were tough decisions.”

The tests, results and reactions will be a daily chore for the league from now until the postseason -- if there is one -- concludes. And, a much more complicated scenario begins with the season on July 23. The league is attempting a travel plan no other sport has remotely considered. But, the first-day returns are positive thanks to the amount of those testing negative. nbcsports.com/LOADED: 07.04.2020 1187331 World Leagues News Sports are slowly returning, and that’s good news.

But if the bad news continues to pile up outside stadiums and arenas, the optics are going to be difficult to ignore. At what point do rising coronavirus numbers threaten the return of sports in Florida?

JOHN ROMANO

John Romano | Leagues all have plans to return safely, but those plans Tampa Bay Times LOADED: 07.04.2020 could be derailed if the spread of the virus in the state turns into a crisis situation for hospitals.

Starting next week, 22 NBA teams will gather near Orlando to begin preparations for a postseason tournament at Walt Disney World. (And the number of positive coronavirus tests in Florida is more than 30 percent higher than all of Canada.)

Major League Baseball has announced plans to finally start its 2020 season with games beginning later this month. (And the nation’s top infectious disease expert said Tuesday he was “very concerned” about the direction of the virus in Florida.)

The NFL is toying with the idea of opening its gates for a certain percentage of fans when games begin in the fall. (And three weeks after reopening bars in the state, Florida shut them all down again over the weekend.)

When it comes to sports and the pandemic, we seem to be living in two very different worlds. A cautious reopening for one, and a reluctant re- examination in the other. Which is going to force the typical fan in Florida to exercise a bit of rationalization in the coming weeks: Stay worried and wary from 9 to 5, and then crack open a beer at 7 p.m. and cheer for your team on TV as if the pandemic is someone else’s problem.

And that’s fine. Because the truth is, a baseball game in a closed stadium is not likely to lead to rampant spread of the coronavirus outside of the building, particularly with the safety precautions proposed by MLB officials, including repeated tests for players and other personnel. Of course, the community’s danger level might increase if fans are allowed in stadiums, but it’s hard to imagine that happening under the current conditions.

Which means the real question is this:

If games are not a danger to the greater populace, is it a bad look for sports to be re-emerging at the same time the virus is spiking in Florida?

As you might guess, the answer is tricky. Appearances matter, and commissioners across every league are cognizant of how their sport might be perceived during this crisis. It’s one of the reasons you rarely hear team officials talking about a league’s plans because they do not want any verbal missteps.

And there are definitely some easily imagined scenarios that could cause sports to come crashing down once again. It may be okay to play basketball or football when positive tests are rising among asymptomatic young people, but it will become untenable if hospitals are surging beyond capacity.

So, yes, there is some logic for the Rays, Lightning and Bucs to continue moving ahead even while municipalities in Tampa Bay are mandating masks be worn in public and the governor’s office is rolling back some of its previous decisions.

The trick is going to be flexibility. MLB, for instance, seems to have several safeguards in mind in case the virus causes disruptions. Bringing back double the number of players for a roster (and keeping them at a separate facility) means a team could continue playing even if the virus spreads through the clubhouse and the active roster needs to be quarantined. And, should the situation in Florida deteriorate, the Rays could play their home games at the Triple-A field in Durham or at the Rangers old park in Arlington.

The NBA went to the greatest extreme by housing the entire league at one facility, which has its positives and negatives. It will be easier to control player activity away from the arena, but if that bubble is penetrated by the virus it could wipe out the postseason.

On the bright side, we already have golf back. We have auto racing, too. We have the whiff of normalcy on a Sunday afternoon watching TV and that’s encouraging for every other sport planning to return to Florida. But the rising numbers the past two weeks have also been sobering around here. 1187332 World Leagues News

Athletics: World Athletics puts Russians' return on hold

PUBLISHEDJUL 2, 2020, 11:39 PM SGTUPDATEDJUL 3, 2020, 1:22 AM

PARIS (AFP) - World Athletics announced on Thursday (July 2) the provisional suspension of the process of allowing Russian athletes to return to competition after the country's athletics federation (RusAF) failed to pay a fine for breaking doping rules.

RusAF had until July 1 to send the global body a US$5 million (S$7 million) fine and US$1.31 million in other costs following accusations it had helped 2017 world high jump silver medallist Danil Lysenko avoid a sanction for failing to comply with anti-doping measures.

On Wednesday, RusAF's president Yevgeny Yurchenko, appointed in February, said it had been unable to send the funds due to a lack of resources linked to the coronavirus pandemic.

"We recognise these are difficult times, but we are very disappointed by the lack of progress made by RusAF in terms of the requirements set in March," World Athletics president Sebastian Coe said.

"The serious allegations of breaching the anti-doping rules resulted in a new RusAF administration and we had assurances and hoped that change was on its way."

"RusAF is letting its athletes down badly. The terms of payment of the fine and costs were clear and unchallenged by RusAF at the time so this issue will now need to return to Council at the end of July," he added.

Last November, World Athletics had frozen the process before allowing 10 Russian athletes to compete at the Tokyo Olympics in exchange for the fine being paid.

A month later the World Anti-Doping Agency banned Russia from global sporting events, including the next two Olympics and the 2022 World Cup, accusing Moscow of falsifying data.

Russian stars Maria Lasitskene, Sergey Shubenkov and Anzhelika Sidorova last week spoke with the country's President Vladimir Putin about the situation and called on him to act so they could feature at next year's Olympics in Japan.

"Shame, almost 5 years, and we are back in the same place," 2019 pole vault world champion Sidorova said on Instagram later on Thursday.

"Sometimes I just want to shake off all this dirt, into which we are dipped endlessly, go into the sunset and never have anything to do with this sport again."

Russia has been fighting for readmission to World Athletics since it was banned in 2015 over repeated doping scandals.

The country's track and field athletes and others from different disciplines missed the 2016 Olympic Games over the ban and "Authorised Neutral Athletes" have competed at world and European championships since then.

World Athletics' Council will review the situation at a meeting on July 29- 30 to ensure the body is not incurring additional costs that may not be reimbursed.

LOADED: 07.04.2020 1187333 World Leagues News college campuses have triggered a wave of fear through the ranks. Since schools began welcoming back football players for voluntary workouts, three schools (Houston, Boise State and Kansas State) have shut down 'There’s a Lot of Pain and Uncertainty': The Gloomy Impact of the activity because of viral outbreaks, and at least three more blueboods Pandemic on Sports Broadcasting have or have had more than 20 players in quarantine, including LSU, Texas and Clemson.

Many broadcasters’ livelihoods are contingent upon playing games. Ross Dellenger Excluding full-staff salary employees—the big-name, on-air talent— announcers and crew members are often paid by the event, with per-

game rates drastically varying, from $300 to $1,000 a pop. That’s the The soothing voice booming through Madison Square Garden belonged case for Watts, who broadcasted 219 events last year for a variety of to Mike Watts. The 27-year-old broadcaster and public address networks on both linear and digital platforms. He estimates that 90% of announcer delivered the bad news to a small crowd during halftime of the those were single-game rates while the other 10 are covered through Big East tournament quarterfinal between St. John’s and Creighton: the league and network contracts. He had 75 games on his schedule from game would not resume. The nation’s last live major sporting event was mid-March through June—roughly one-third of his income. canceled. Brendan Gulick, another freelance broadcaster with a large annual In a way, Watts’s voice brought to an end major American sports, the workload, lost 40% of his income. Based in Cleveland, Gulick missed out curtain call on action before the coronavirus pandemic triggered a three- on 18 Ohio State spring games, at least seven Division III contests and month shutdown. Fortuitously, Watts will be there when the curtain rises. several more NCAA Olympic sport championship events he calls for He’s scheduled to handle the international play-by-play broadcast when NCAA.com. In fact, on March 12, he had packed his car for the eight- the Portland Thorns play the North Carolina Courage on Saturday to hour trek to North Carolina to cover the D-III indoor track championships. begin the National Women’s Soccer League’s truncated season—a He never pulled out of the driveway. “My world came to a screeching month-long tournament in Utah. The match marks the first major halt,” he says. American team competition since the mid-game cancellation of that Big The same goes for Lyn Rollins. The 70-year-old television play-by-play East game on March 12. man is thankful that he was drifting into retirement anyhow. Still, he calls In between the two events, 107 days have passed. Naturally, Watts is a more than 80 games annually for LSU, featured primarily on SEC ball of nerves. “It’s kind of funny,” he says, “I don’t know how my voice Network and ESPN+. Soccer, softball, volleyball, football, you name it will sound. There is a nervousness about coming back.” and Rollins has done it. He missed the busiest time of his year. He’s a regular on LSU baseball productions. As a result, he’s started to dabble Watts is one of the lucky ones. He’s heading back to work much sooner into his retirement earlier than he expected. “There’s a lot of pain and than many of his colleagues. The virus’s tentacles have choked virtually uncertainty in the industry right now,” Rollins says. every industry in college sports, and that includes the voices on your radio and faces on your television. Many high-profile broadcasters weren’t impacted by the shutdown. Under contract as full-time staff members, they earn a guaranteed salary. A broadcaster mic with a mask over it However, even some full-timers missed additional income. Their contracts are often structured to allow extra pay for games they work Sports Illustrated beyond what their contract requires. One ESPN broadcaster, granted Broadcasters, hundreds of them, are out of work. Freelance television anonymity, estimates that he lost about one-quarter of his income. He crews, some that lost upwards of 70 events, are dipping into their was scheduled to surpass the 100-game mark for the year, August 2019 retirement savings, and dozens of school radio play-by-play announcers through July 2020, but he didn’t even break the 80-game barrier. are furloughed until at least the end of the summer. For many other high- ESPN freelance broadcasters and crew members got a gift from the profile TV broadcasters, their multi-year contracts, structured to span a network. ESPN paid crews for events that they were scheduled to work school year, are coming up for renegotiation at a time of economic through mid-April, about a month into the shutdown. “They didn’t have to distress. do that. It was nice,” says Brian Zwolinski, a 55-year-old associate All of them are fretting about the uncertain future of an industry that, pre- director for both ESPN and FOX. “It kept us off unemployment until April pandemic, was experiencing its golden years—conference networks and 18.” That said, Zwolinski estimates that his salary will be one-third lower digital avenues providing bountiful opportunities. They’re worried about than last year’s amount. His unemployment check is roughly $870 a the younger broadcasting generation—college graduates now entering week, $600 of that from a federal stimulus bill Congress passed in April. an uneasy field. “I think the sports broadcasting world is in danger of When the stimulus ends on July 31, he might have to tap into his losing some very talented people,” says Tom Hart, one of ESPN’s play- retirement. And if football doesn’t return, he’ll have to get another job. A by-play announcers for college football and college baseball. “I have a TV crew member his entire life with five Emmys, he’s searched the job positive outlook that we’re going to have a college football season, but I boards to no avail. “What else am I qualified to do?” he says. “It’s a scary think it’s going to look different than any other season we’ve ever seen. time, with athletes popping positive. Is football going to happen?” Get comfortable being uncomfortable.” At colleges around the country, play-by-play radio broadcasters are Announcers like Hart are imagining what a broadcasting booth might look hurting as well. Many of them are on furlough, some at least through like. Can you wear a mask and call a game properly? And who really July—and maybe longer. While these jobs are often portrayed as expects to adhere to social distancing in a TV truck? TV producers are glamorous, they don’t always fall under the umbrella of a big-money expecting a significant increase in remote broadcasts, a way to avoid athletic department. A large portion of school play-by-play announcers travel, saving on costs and limiting health risks. But will we really be are employed by a third party, the biggest of which is Learfield/IMG. calling big-time college football games this fall from their living room Neil Price, the play-by-play man for Mississippi State football and men’s couch? They’re wondering, too, if networks will use skeleton crews, basketball, gets about 60% of his income from Learfield/IMG, with about potentially cutting broadcasting teams in half, from 40 members to 20. 40% from the school. He’s coming to the end of a three-year contract at a And how the heck will travel work? Game assignments are sometimes very prickly time. He expects to remain in Starkville, of course, but when decided a week in advance. Major airlines are operating a significantly exactly will his new deal begin? “It depends on when they’re comfortable reduced flight schedule. Will planes already be booked? Can we even enough to know there’s going to be football of some kind,” Price says. get there in a timely fashion? “All these questions are the same ones Broadcasters have used the downtime in an assortment of ways. Rollins we’ve been asking ourselves. It’s so hard to forecast,” says Greg has practiced calling games with a mask, recording himself and listening McElroy, a former Alabama quarterback and ESPN analyst who is based back to hear a sound that horrifies him: a low, muffled rumble as if he in Birmingham, Ala. “If I had a game at Washington State right now, I were broadcasting a game within a phone booth. “If I’m told the only way don’t think I could get there in less than 20 hours.” I’m allowed to do my job is that way, I’ll do it,” says Andrew Allegretta, Sports Illustrated spoke to more than a dozen radio and television Tulane’s play-by-play announcer. “It won’t be my first choice and it will broadcasters as well as a few off-camera crew members about the state limit the quality, but if it’s necessary and only way we get on the air, I’ll do of the industry. As is often the case in college athletics, questions far it.” exceed answers. Broadcasting is rife with ambiguity. The latest spikes on To keep their voices sharp, broadcasters have re-called old games while watching them on TV or computer. A few have evaluated their own broadcasts, re-listening to their calls in an effort to improve the quality. And then there’s Kyle Peterson, who’s been calling Korean baseball games at 3 a.m. on Saturdays from his basement, while also dabbling in a new hobby. “I bought a smoker,” says Peterson, the former Major League pitcher who serves as ESPN’s lead college baseball voice. “I’ve gotten addicted to smoking meats. I’m firing it up three times a week. It’s probably not good for my cholesterol.”

If broadcasts lean more remote in the future, Peterson has had plenty of practice. He’s got his own broadcasting studio in his basement where Korean baseball games come flooding into a feed for him to call for an ESPN audience. Remote broadcasts were already growing in popularity even before the pandemic forced networks into budget-cutting maneuvers. And now? “There’s definitely going to be more of them in the future,” Zwolinski says. “No one likes to do them, but in these circumstances, they’re the best we can do right now.”

In a remote production, a network may travel just two to three crew members to a game. The cameramen are often hired locally. The play- by-play announcer and the analyst are either watching from a feed in their own homes or in a studio. Production crews are not in a TV truck or press box booth but are in remote broadcasting studios located in a hub. For ESPN, that’s Bristol, Conn.; Charlotte, N.C.; and Orlando, Fla.

Remote broadcasts come at a price. “It’s been a lot better than I thought it would be,” Peterson says, “but the challenge is, when you’re sitting at a game, you have the entire environment in front of you. You can see guys going to the bullpen and stuff like that. If you’re not there, you can’t see the landscape. I’m sure we miss things. That part stinks.”

Remote broadcasts may also lack a sideline presence. “If there are no fans, sideline reporting could be an even more critical role,” says Cole Cubelic, a former Auburn center who now serves as a sideline reporter for ESPN. The lack of a crowd can throw a cog into the television production wheel. Broadcasts can often include dozens of crowd shots per game. From scoring plays to third-down stops, TV crews highlight the rabid student sections, the marching bands and sign-holding fans. They do it so much that one ESPN producer, who wished to remain anonymous, is nearly worried sick about it. “Of all the things to worry about, that keeps me up the most at night,” he says,

Dave Pasch, an ESPN on-air broadcaster specializing in college football and basketball and the NBA, wonders how broadcasting without fans or with limited fans impacts the art of calling a game. “Especially when you have a big crowd, you lay off and don’t talk after a big play,” he says. “You might not have that. And if you’re in the stadium without fans, do you create a makeshift booth in the stands for more room?”

Watts won’t need to worry about that this weekend. He’ll be calling the women’s soccer matches from a studio in Florida while watching the live feed. He doesn’t mind. He’s just happy to be back working—even if it’s a large load. In fact, on Day 1 this Saturday, his first time broadcasting in more than three months, Watts will call back-to-back matches—one in the afternoon and another in the evening. “It might be tough,” he chuckles. “I’m going from zero to 100.” si.com LOADED: 07.04.2020