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May 15
Blues Buzz recap for May 15th
Summary by Nick Hand
Segment 1- Andy talks about a variety of topics that occurred this week in the NHL including the Maple Leaf situation, the firing of Avalanche coach Joel Quenneville, current head coaching vacancies around the league, and the Vancouver hiring of Scott Mellanby to their front office. Andy also discusses the current structure of the Blues front office, the team’s interest in Dave Nonis, and the continuing influx of young talent that should be present next season with the recent signings of T.J. Oshie and Lars Eller.
Listen to Segment 1
Segment 2 and 3- Former Blues Defenseman Jamie Rivers
Andy talks it over with Jamie Rivers on his experiences playing professional hockey in Russia. Rivers explains the cultural differences playing in Russia and the language barrier with his teammates. Rivers also shares great stories about some of the situations he experienced throughout the season including having his apartment down the hall from the team’s front office, how the team’s coach was giving an ultimatum to win or be fired before a regular season game, the practice and conditioning schedule in Russian hockey, and the overall quality and skill of all of the players in the league. Rivers also commented on the passion the Russian fans have for the sport of hockey, the pay system of Russian hockey, and the traveling that takes place throughout the season.
When Rivers was asked to comment on the Stanley Cup playoffs, he responded that he sees a Detroit-Pittsburgh final with Detroit edging Pittsburgh to win the Cup. He talked about how he believes Detroit’s secret to success is the roster stability they have displayed throughout this successful run as well as the quality goaltending they have been receiving from Chris Osgood since he took over for Hasek in the first round series against Nashville.
Listen to Segment 2Listen to Segment 3
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May 14
Blues Talk to Nonis about New Position
According to Andy Strickland, the Blues have spoken with former Vancouver Canucks GM Dave Nonis about a new management position with the organization, that would report to current Blues GM Larry Pleau.
Pleau's contract expires in June, but he will likely be extended.
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May 14
Oshie Says His Dream's Coming True
T.J. Oshie joined Bernie Miklasz and Randy Karraker on The Roll Home on Team 1380 Wednesday afternoon.
T.J. said it's a dream come true to sign the contract, but he wants to have a good summer so he can have his dream of playing in the NHL come true.
Oshie said he is very excited, and he is very thankful that the Blues supported his decision to stay in school the past couple years. He thinks he is more mature on and off the ice now after getting those extra seasons under his belt at North Dakota.
He said he likes scoring goals while playing physical, and he likes to create excitement for the fans, including making big hits.
T.J. acknowledged he had some bad influences in college, and he said there should be no concern about what happened.
"I'm ready to grow up and be mature and play some hockey," he said.
Oshie thinks that playing with other young guys will be beneficial now and in the future because the guys will have played for years together and grow together.
He has spoken with Andy Murray one on one only a couple times, but he knows how Murray likes to run things, and T.J. is confident that their relationship will grow.
Oshie was told that he will love moving to the NHL from college because there is less clutching and grabbing. T.J. said he doesn't watch too much hockey because he gets too excited and wants to play so he hasn't watched too much of the playoffs.
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May 13
Davidson Discusses the New Additions
Blues President John Davidson joined Bernie Miklasz and Randy Karraker on The Roll Home on Team 1380 Tuesday afternoon.
T.J. Oshie came in last night, signed his contract this morning, and I think he chances are pretty good of making the team. If he is willing and able and smart enough to, he will play center. If not, he will play the wing. He is like Brian Sutter but a better skater. If he doesn't make our club he will play in Peoria.
John said that T.J. is stronger this year and more mature. He is 100% healthy now, and JD thinks he is a better player now having played another year in college.
Lars Eller just played for Denmark in the World Championships, and got some great experience. He is only 19, and he has great offensive skill. His dad is in the Denmark hockey hall of fame. Lars has great command of the English language, and he has a great hockey mind. Because of his age, the Blues will have to offer him back to his club in Sweden if he doesn't make the team.
Both Oshie and Eller will play in a camp at the Mills Mall in late June.
Davidson talked about how young the Blues were and how young they will be next year if Oshie and Eller make the team. He said that the guys have to come in prepared and in shape and they will get better by gaining experience in the league.
"There is not another team in the NHL who have as many legitimate prospects (as the Blues)," Davidson said.
JD said that the Blues would love to move up to #1 in the draft, but he doesn't think that will happen. The Blues have had calls from teams wanting to move up to their position, and they are listening to the offers. "If we can better ourselves we'll do it. We aren't afraid to make a move."
JD said that it is his call if the Blues will go after free agents. He said that there aren't a whole lot of good players on the market this off-season, but some players may become available if their teams don't resign them. John said that it has to be the right fit for the Blues to sign someone.
The Blues have had to find a way to attain as much talent through youth as possible. JD said that including this year, the Blues will have 6 first rounders in 3 years.
JD said it's pretty exciting for him to see the kids like Perron, Oshie, Eller come up through the system.
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May 13 UPDATED 1:40pm
Blues Sign Top Picks Eller, Oshie
St. Louis Blues President John Davidson announced today that the team has signed 2005 first round draft pick, T.J. Oshie and 2007 first round pick Lars Eller.
“I am happy that the Blues have been patient with me over the past couple of years,” said Oshie. “I am now ready and proud to wear the Blue Note next season. I would like to thank my family, who have supported me all these years. I would also like to give a special thanks to all the programs, coaches, and all of my teammates who have made an impact on my life and hockey career.”
“I am really excited about signing with the Blues,” said Eller. “It has always been my dream to play in the NHL and I am one step closer to achieving my ultimate goal.”
“We are happy to have T.J. and Lars in the fold as both players will be important assets for this hockey club as we move forward,” said Davidson.
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May 8
Blues Buzz with Andy Strickland
Jon Cooper, head coach of the St. Louis Bandits, joined Andy Strickland for the Blues Buzz show on Thursday night. Cooper talked about the joy of winning back-to-back NAHL National Championships last Sunday at the Hardee's IcePlex in Chesterfield, the development of the team throughtout the season, and his future as a coach.
Strickland was also joined by Bill Watters, who is a former Assistant General Manager of the Toronto Maple Leafs and is a current co-host of Hockey Central on Roger's SportsNet in Canada as well as the host of The Bill Watters Show on AM 640 in Toronto. Watters talked about the firing of Maple Leafs coach Paul Maurice and the future direction he believes the Maple Leafs will take.
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May 7
Eller Close to Being Signed
Andy Strickland reported on his Daily Buzz segment on Team 1380 that the Blues expect a deal to be done soon with Lars Eller, their first pick in last year's draft.
Andy said that there is a very strong chance that Lars can make the Blues team next year. Eller is playing in the World Championships as a 19 year-old right now.
Strickland also reported that TJ Oshie wants to wait until his classes are complete before he finalizes his contract.
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May 5
Blues Playing in World Championships
David Backes, Lee Stempniak and Jamal Mayers are competing in the World Hockey Championships in Nova Scotia.
Mayers has one point for Team Canada in two wins. Backes and Stempniak have both been held off the scoreboard, but Team USA is 2-0 after beating Latvia on Friday and Slovenia yesterday.
The U.S. closes out its round-robin with a
showdown against Canada on Tuesday afternoon.
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April 17
David Perron Discusses Rookie Season
Blues forward David Perron joined Andy Strickland on the Blues Buzz on Team 1380 Thursday evening.
David said that during the season sometimes it was hard mentally and frustrating for him. "Even though I didn't score as much as I wanted to in the last 20-25 games, I think I played better and that's what is important."
He said he wanted to play every night, but he learned how to play as a team. Even though the team didn't have as great of a season as they wanted, he thinks he had a good year.
Perron said that the young guys like David Backes, Lee Stempniak, and DJ King helped him a lot with his English, handling money, where to eat, how to get around in a car, and other things.
David said, "By the end of the year my English got better, and I pretty much understand everything (now)."
David said that he had conversations almost every day with Andy Murray about all different topics including where he was living and his play on the ice.
"Talking with (Murray) helped me a lot," David said.
He told Murray at end of year that he bought into what he told him because Andy is so passionate just like David himself.
on Training this Summer?---Perron said he is going to try to get stronger this summer so he can play better "in the corner with the big guys." He said that sometimes he takes training too seriously.
Perron said he is not sure if he will take part in the development camp or not.
on the young players coming next season?---David said he is excited to play with TJ Oshie and the other guys coming. Perron said he will probably learn from the new guys, and hopefully, they learn from him too.
Listen to David Perron Interview
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April 17
Erik Johnson Surgery Successful Today
According to Andy Strickland on the Blues Buzz on Team 1380 Thursday, Erik Johnson underwent successful shoulder surgery today in Cleveland, Ohio.
However, the doctors found some other damage and after fixing that, rehab will take a little longer than previously thought. The Blues said they think Johnson will get back on the ice in August.
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April 14
Andy Murray Talks about Season
St. Louis Blues Coach Andy Murrray joined
Bernie Miklasz and Randy Karraker on The Roll Home on Team 1380 on Monday afternoon to talk about this past season for the Blues. Murray said that the Blues lost 21 "one goal" games, that Manny Legace was overplayed, and that he, himself, also needs to do a better job.
Coach Murray said that he accepts criticism, but that it bothers him when his relationship with the players is questioned. He doesn't think he had a relationship issue at all with any player. Murray said, "There will be issues with players, but there are not relationship problems. Players know they can come in and talk to me. There may be issues, but I don't think there is a problem."
on Power Play?---Andy said that the power play problems weren't because of the assistant coach who is in charge of power play strategy because it is Murray's strategy. He said what was alarming about the power play was the number of chances they had to score and didn't. He said that because the Blues lacked another power play point man, they had to play Brad Boyes out of position. Murray said it got better in the second half of the season with the maturity of Erik Johnson when he was able to distribute the puck around. Coach said the fact that Kariya only had 16 goals all season shows they didn't score enough. Murray said he's hoping to address issue of playing Boyes out of position by acquiring another power play point shooter.
on Leadership?---Murray said they can be stronger in that area. The core leadership group is pretty good, but can do a better job. biggest problem this season was their play after trade deadline.
on what Murray can do better?---He said he can do a number of things better. He needs to continue to hold players accountable, and make sure players are energized every night. He's still gathering info and trying to figure out how to get better.
on Young Players?---Murray said that in the year-end meeting, David Perron talked about how much he learned, and he appreciated how he was handled. Perron learned how to conduct himself on and off the ice. Murray said Erik Johnson matured and is a quality young guy. Murray is hopeful T.J. Oshie will be able to step in and play next year.
on David Perron?---Murray said he had a number of individual talks with Perron about things both on and off the ice. "He was the most appreciative of anybody."
Murray said that Perron understood how they used him during the season. In reference to not playing him much in Montreal, Murray said they knew David was tired at the end of that road trip and didn't want him to get labeled as not a great player in front of the fans in Montreal because that could haunt a player for the rest of his life.
on Conditioning?---Murray didn't think there was any issue of players being overworked in their conditioning. He said, "I think we should've worked our guys harder in certain situations. We were one of the healthiest teams in the league. I think our conditioning work was outstanding."
on Additions this Summer?---Murray said they need a big, strong centerman, and he's hopeful Patrik Berglund can fill that need. More grit up front, and he hopes Oshie can provide that. Need one or two more pass moving defenseman---probably get one in draft. Those additions will be made with young players, and he said they will stick with the youth movement.
on Coaching Staff?---The plan right now would be to keep the staff together. It's under review right now. "I like all the guys I work with."
Listen to Andy Murray Interview
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April 11
Cole Advances to NCAA Championship
Blues prospect helps Notre Dame past No. 1 Ranked Michigan
Blues defensive prospect Ian Cole will play in the 2008 Frozen Four Championship game on Saturday night.
Cole helped Notre Dame to a 5-4 win in overtime over the No. 1 ranked Michigan Wolverines on Thursday night. Notre Dame will meet Boston College, who eliminated North Dakota.
Cole, 19, was selected in the first round, 18th overall by the Blues in the 2007 Entry Draft and is currently a freshman at the University of Notre Dame. The Ann Arbor, Michigan native has played in 41 games this season, registering 18 points (eight goals, 10 assists) and 40 penalty minutes.
The 2008 Frozen Four Championship game will take place Saturday at 6 p.m. Fans can watch the game on ESPN.
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April 10
Backes & Stempniak To Play In
World Championships
USA Hockey announced that Blues forwards David Backes and Lee Stempniak were named to the 2008 United States Men’s National Team for the IIHF Men’s World Championships to be held from May 2-18 in Halifax, Nova Scotia, and Quebec City, Quebec, Canada. Both players will be appearing in their second consecutive World Championship for Team USA.
Backes, 23, skated in 72 games for the Blues this season, recording 31 points (13 goals, 18 assists) along with 99 penalty minutes. He ranked first on the team and fifth in the National Hockey League with 240 hits. Backes ranked second on the club in penalty minutes (99). The Minneapolis, Minnesota native was originally St. Louis’ second round selection, 62nd overall, in the 2003 NHL Entry Draft.
Stempniak, 25, played in 80 games with the Blues this season, recording 38 points (13 goals, 25 assists) and 40 penalty minutes. In the 2007 World Championship, he played in seven games and registered 10 points (six goals, four assists). The West Seneca, New York native was originally drafted by the Blues in the fifth round, 148th overall in the 2003 NHL Entry Draft.
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April 9
Legace Will Not Need Surgery
According to Andy Strickland on the Roll Home on Team 1380, Manny Legace will not need to undergo surgery on his knee as previously was feared.
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April 8
John Davidson Discusses Andy Murray, Perron, Draft, & Power Play
Blues President John Davidson talked with
Bernie Miklasz and Randy Karraker Tuesday afternoon on The Roll Home on Team 1380.
Davidson said that each person involved with the Blues can do better this coming season. He said that nobody is off the hook, including Coach
Andy Murray, and that "we all need to get better. Andy (Murray) can improve. There's no question about that."
"In some ways we should've been better than we were and in some ways we overachieved. We're going through the process."
- on Murray Playing Young Kids?---Davidson said that Patrik Berglund and TJ Oshie should make the team next year and that Erik Johnson and David Backes played a lot this year. He said each player who comes along is different and each one has to be handled differently.
- on David Perron?---Davidson said that David Perron "comes from a different area of Quebec," and that they had to teach him how to eat, how to train, how to do everything. He continued that he played in over 62 games, averaging 12.5 min per game, and produced for the team. JD said that Perron matured and came twice as far as Johnson did, and that the team won't have to deal with the same things next year.
- on the Draft?---JD compared prospect Steven Stamkos to Joe Sakic, and he said that the Blues are sending representatives to a remote part of Russia to watch potential draft picks play. JD said the only way for the Blues to do it is to build from within with the Draft.
- on Free Agency?---it may help depending on the way the draft goes. Last year more high end players were available. Davidson said they are in a position where they don't want to sign a player to a 6, 7, or 8 year contract. They want to develop players within the organization, and JD said if it doesn't make sense they won't do it.
"We are getting there with the development of offense from within; We are tyring to find skill from within the organization."
on Leadership in Locker Room?--- JD thinks Eric Brewer is a very good captain, and in some ways the culture has to change. They need proper leadership for players to develop. "Leadership can help develop young players
a lot quicker and better," Davidson said.
- Power Play?---JD talked to Al MacInnis about helping with power play, and he isn't comfortable devoting the time needed right now to be a fulltime coach because he wants to spend time with his family, and he coaches a team that travels all across North America.
- Offseason Surgeries?---Manny Legace is traveling around the country for 2nd opinions on his knee. Eric Brewer is going to have much needed shoulder surgery, and Erik Johnson will have minor shoulder surgery as well.
- Blues leave St. Louis?---John said, "No, absolutely not. I've never heard that. I see no reason for it. Not a chance." JD said that just because his house is for sale doesn't mean he is leaving. JD said that the Blues have "no financial issues whatsoever."
Listen to John Davidson Conversation
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April 8
Mayers To Play In World Championships
Hockey Canada announced today that Blues forward Jamal Mayers was named to the 2008 Canadian Men’s National Team for the IIHF Men’s World Championships.
Mayers, 33, tied a career high by playing in 80 games with the Blues this past season, recording 27 points (12 goals, 15 assists) and 91 penalty minutes.
Mayers has spent the previous 10 seasons with the Blues, the longest running tenure on the team. He has played in a total of 595 career games, registering 158 points (71 goals, 87 assists) along with 756 penalty minutes.
The Toronto, Ontario native was originally drafted by the Blues as their fourth round selection, 89th overall in the 1993 Entry Draft.
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April 7
Blues Will Pick Fourth in 2008 NHL Draft
In Monday night's draft lottery, the Blues received the No. 4 overall pick in the upcoming 2008 NHL Entry Draft. The Blues odds of winning the first overall pick were 10.7 percent. Tampa Bay received the No. 1 overall pick.
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April 7
Mike McCarthy & Al MacInnis To Represent Blues At Draft Drawing
Drawing Will Be Televised On VERSUS & NHL Network at 7 p.m.
ST. LOUIS – St. Louis Blues Vice Chairman Mike McCarthy and Vice President of Hockey Operations
Al MacInnis will represent the club this evening when the National Hockey League draws the order for this year’s draft. The Blues have a 10.7% chance of winning the 1st overall selection.
The NHL Draft Drawing is a weighted system to determine the order of selection for the first 14 picks of the 2008 NHL Entry Draft and will take place Monday, April 7, at 7 p.m. St. Louis time at the NHL’s New York City office.
The League, in cooperation with TSN, further announced that the results of the Draft Drawing will be televised live by TSN in Canada; VERSUS in the U.S.; and NHL Network in the U.S. and Canada. Furthermore, the results will be streamed live on NHL.com and TSN.ca and broadcast live on XM Satellite Radio.
The 30-minute, live program – titled “Scotiabank NHL Draft Lottery” – will begin at 7 p.m. and will originate from the NHL on TSN studios in Toronto. TSN’s James Duthie will host the program, with Hockey Insider Bob McKenzie and analyst Mike Milbury.
The Draft Drawing involves Clubs that do not qualify for the Stanley Cup Playoffs, or the Clubs that acquired the first-round drafting positions of those non-playoff clubs.
Per NHL rules, the club selected in the Draft Drawing may not move up more than four positions in the draft order. Thus, the only Clubs with the opportunity to receive the first overall selection are the five teams with the lowest regular-season point totals, or the Clubs that acquired an eligible Club’s first-round draft pick. No club will move down more than one position as a result of the Draft Drawing. Therefore, the Blues will pick 1st, 4th or 5th at this year’s draft.
Under the weighted system, the club with the fewest regular-season points will have the greatest chance (25%) of winning the Draft Drawing and will pick no lower than second.
Based on team finish, the percentage chance of being selected in the Draft Drawing is:
Tampa Bay - 25.0%
Phoenix - 3.6%
Los Angeles - 18.8%
Nashville (from FLA) - 2.7%
Atlanta - 14.2%
Vancouver - 2.1%
St. Louis - 10.7%
Chicago - 1.5%
N.Y. Islanders - 8.1%
Anaheim (from EDM) - 1.1%
Columbus - 6.2%
Buffalo - 0.8%
Toronto - 4.7%
Carolina - 0.5%
The 2008 NHL Entry Draft will take place at Scotiabank Place in Ottawa, Ontario. The first round will take place on Friday, June 20 commencing at 6 p.m. (St. Louis time) and the subsequent rounds (two through seven) will begin at 9 a.m. Saturday, June 21.
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April 5
Blues Prospects Lars Eller And Simon Hjalmarsson Lead Frolunda J20 To League Championship
Eller Notches Two Goals To Lead Team To Victory
St. Louis Blues prospects Lars Eller and Simon Hjalmarsson have captured the Swedish Junior-20 SuperElit Championship playing for Frolunda.
Eller, 18, tallied a pair of goals in the championship game. He played in nine games for Frolunda J20, tallying eight points (four goals, four assists) along with 10 penalty minutes. The first round, 13th overall pick in the 2007 NHL Entry Draft also played for Frolunda of the Elitserien League and Boras HC of the Allsvenskan League this season. The 6-1, 198-pound native of Rodovre, Denmark also represented Team Denmark at the 2007 World Junior Championships, tallying six points (three goals, three assists).
Hjalmarsson, 19, skated in 37 games for Frolunda J20, ranking second on the team with 46 points (16 goals, 30 assists). The second round, 39th pick overall, in the 2007 NHL Entry Draft, also appeared in 10 games for Boras HC of the Allsvenskan League, recording six points (two goals, four assists). The 5-11, 161-pound forward also represented Team Sweden at the Under-19 and Under-20 Junior Championships.
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April 1
Blues Prospects Reach Frozen Four
ST. LOUIS – St. Louis Blues prospects Ian Cole, T.J. Oshie and Aaron Palushaj will represent their colleges at the 2008 NCAA Frozen Four.
Press Release
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March 31
Blues Nearing End of Season
Post-Dispatch Blues beat writer Jeremy Rutherford joined Randy Karraker on the Roll Home on Team 1380 Monday afternoon.
Rutherford said that if it weren't for Manny Legace the Blues
Paul Kariya is in a down part of his career, and the Blues don't have the finishers outside of Brad Boyes that Kariya had in Nashville the past couple years, which reflected in his play.
Rutherford thinks this will be a very young team next year, which doesn't bode well for the playoffs, and unless they try a quick fix and go after a goal scorer this offseason. "Any money the Blues spend this offseason needs to be spent on offense," Rutherford said.
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March 31 (5:30p)
Blues No Worse Than 4th Pick
Andy Strickland reported that the Blues can have no worse than the 4th overall draft pick because of their record even though the top picks are determined by a lottery system.
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March 26
Good Effort For 2 Periods Isn't Enough
Bernie Miklasz says he is tired of hearing the excuse of giving a good effort. He said they are supposed to give a good effort, and they were outworked in the 3rd period.
Bernie and Randy Karraker went on to discuss Paul Kariya's performance this year and wondered if he has ever really bounced back from concussions earlier in his career.
They compared Kariya's deal to Adam Kennedy's contract with the Cardinals because of how each have underperformed the first year of a 3-year contract.
Bernie and Randy hope the Blues go with the young players they have coming up next season and don't tie themselves up with long term contracts for declining veterans this offseason.
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March 25
Blues Talk about 2007-08 Season
Bernie Miklasz and Randy Karraker talked about the Blues on the Roll Home on Team 1380. Miklasz said he is "calling BS on the excuse of youth" for the Blues' troubles this season. He said that many players haven't played up to their potential including Lee Stempniak, Andy McDonald, and Paul Kariya.
They talked about the veterans letting the team down, and talked about Andy Murray needing to find a new power play coach this offseason.
Bernie said there is no excuse to finish 14th after finishing 10th last year.
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March 21
Blues Assign Yan Stastny To Peoria
St. Louis Blues President John Davidson announced today that the club has assigned forward Yan Stastny to the Blues’ American Hockey League affiliate, the Peoria Rivermen.
He made his Blues debut on February 16 at Nashville recording a goal and has skated in 12 games with St. Louis, registering two points (one goal, one assist).
Stastny, 25, has played in 34 games for the Rivermen this season, collecting 19 points (11 goals, eight assists) along with 48 penalty minutes.
The Quebec City, Quebec native is the son of former Blue Peter Stastny and was originally Boston’s eighth round selection, 259th overall, in the 2002 NHL Entry Draft. Yan and Peter became the second father and son combination to play for the Blues on February 16 at Nashville. Bob and Brent Johnson were the first.
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March 20
Blues Prospect T.J. Oshie Named To 2007-08 All-WCHA First Team
Named As Hobey Baker Top 10 Finalist
St. Louis Blues prospect T.J. Oshie has been named to the 2007-08 All-WCHA’s first team. In addition, Oshie has been named as a top 10 finalist for the Hobey Baker Award which is given annually to college hockey’s most outstanding player.
Oshie, 21, a junior at the University of North Dakota, led the Fighting Sioux this season with 39 points (17 goals, 22 assists). He finished fourth in WCHA scoring with 29 points (12 goals, 17 assists) in 27 league games. Last season, Oshie was named to the WCHA’s third team.
The Mount Vernon, Washington native was originally drafted by the Blues in the first round, 24th overall in the 2005 NHL Entry Draft.
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March 19
Bernie Miklasz and Randy Karraker talked about
David Perron's limited playing time in Montreal on the Roll Home on Team 1380.
They questioned if the young guys coming up next year will really play, and they said John Davidson's credibility is on the line when he comes on talk shows talking about the kids but Andy Murray doesn't play them.
Click HERE to listen.
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March 19
Blues Sign Forward Julian Talbot
St. Louis Blues President John Davidson announced today that the team has signed forward Julian Talbot.
Talbot, 22, has played in 65 games with the Peoria Rivermen this season, registering 41 points (20 goals, 21 assists) along with 39 penalty minutes. His 20 goals this season ties him for first on the Rivermen.
The Wahnapitae, Ontario native played in his first professional season last year with the St. Louis Blues’ ECHL affiliate, the Alaska Aces, appearing in 66 games, recording 53 points (20 goals, 33 assists) and 54 penalty minutes.
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March 17
On the Roll Home Monday, Randy Karraker says the it really bothers him that the Blues have gone from on the brink of contending for 8th place to likely ending the season with the least wins in the league.
Randy said that, "Positives from earlier this season are completely wasted because (Blues players) don't have mental toughness. They have no accountability. They don't utilize the talent they have; don't look like they are coached very well, and there's no chemistry on the ice."
Bernie said he never thought he would say it, but Andy Murray enters next season with his job on the line. Bernie said,"If the Blues tank again next year, there is no doubt that Andy Murray will be gone."
Click HERE to listen to their conversation.
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March 13
John Davidson interview from Tuesday's Roll Home uploaded.
Click HERE to listen
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March 11
St. Louis Blues President John Davidson joined Bernie and Randy on the Roll Home Tuesday on Team 1380.
Here is a partial summary:
- on difference between first half and second half of the season?---John said the main difference is the lack of goal scoring. He said they didn't think they'd have the trouble they have had. John said, "When you don't score it tends to snowball. We're not going to panic as an organization; we're going to stick with our plan and move forward."
- on what went wrong this season?---John said they are going to look at everything. They feel Andy Murray is a terrific coach, and as an organization they are going to figure out what went right and what didn't work. John said they need more of a #1 center than Tkachuck. He said Andy McDonald will be a good player for the Blues after he has a full summer off this year (he played all through playoffs last year). John said they knew the Center position would be a problem so they drafted some centers this year, "We are chipping away at getting parts." JD said they brought in Cam Janssen because they wanted to bring in a young energy player to help protect the other young stars they have coming up soon.
- on Blues' previous drafts being the problem?---JD agreed that it's fair to say that the Blues are in this position because of drafts before Yarmo Kekelanian took over. John referred to the Pittsburgh Penguins and said that sometimes a team has to go through rough times and get top draft picks in order to be a great team. He said that the Blues must do well in the draft and get the best players they can. He said, "You have to pay a price and you have to develop players to grow and it takes time."
- approach on goaltending for rest of year?---Toivonen had a really rough stretch, but JD would like to see him worked in a little bit to see if he can recapture what he had early in the season. "I'd like to see Toivennen play some games."
- on if trading Bryce Salvador has affected Eric Brewer's play on the ice?---John said he doesn't think it should make a difference. He said Bryce is a quality guy who made a difference for the Blues, but he doesn't think Brewer would be that affected by having a new partner.
- on Cam Janssen?---Davidson would like to see Cam become a better player at handling the puck. "He loves hitting people and defenseman don't want to go back there and get the puck when he's out there, but we'd like to see him develop his game."
- on Ben Bishop?---JD said the University of Maine goalie Ben Bishop passed his physical today, signed his amatuer contract and is headed to Peoria. JD said he will hopefully get worked into the rotation and get in some games this season.
- other notes?---John said that since Andy Murray took over the record was really good, but since this January the record has been discouraging. He said the organization needs to figure out why there is a lack of scoring, lack of power play, and why top scorers aren't producing. John said that the Blues have to continue to figure things out, but that Erik Johnson and David Perron are going to be great players.
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March 11
Blues Sign Maine Goaltender Ben Bishop
Click HERE for Press Release
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March 11
Blues Recall Defenseman Roman Polak From Peoria Under Emergency Conditions
ST. LOUIS – St. Louis Blues President John Davidson announced today the club has recalled defenseman Roman Polak under emergency conditions from the Blues’ American Hockey League affiliate, the Peoria Rivermen.
Polak, 21, has played in 28 games for the Rivermen this season, recording six assists along with 15 penalty minutes.
The Ostrava, Czech Republic was originally drafted by the Blues in the 6th round, 180th overall in the 2004 NHL Entry Draft.
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March 10
BLUES HOST HOCKEY 101 CLASS FOR WOMEN
The St. Louis Blues will host the 2nd annual Ladies & Left Wings, a hockey 101 class for female hockey fans, on Saturday, March 29 at 1:30p.m.
Participants will have the opportunity to tour Scottrade Center and learn hockey basics from Blues alumni and broadcaster Kelly Chase. Other guests, such as longtime women’s amateur hockey player Cathy Dunkin and FOX 2 reporter Shawn Lindsey, will assist Chase as he explains equipment, rules, and strategy. Class wraps up with a Q & A session and dinner, just before the Blues take on the Chicago Blackhawks.
Tickets for Ladies & Left Wings are $100 each and include the hockey 101 class, a plaza center ticket to the Blues vs. Blackhawks game, a post-class celebration and more. Season ticket holders may purchase class-only tickets for $50 each. Seating is limited and the event sold out last season.
Tickets may be purchased by calling the Blues at 314.589.5998 or 314.622.2524. Proceeds from the event benefit the St. Louis Blues 14 Fund, the Blues charitable trust. For more information, visit www.stlouisblues.com.
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March 6
Andy Strickland's report during the Daily BUZZ on Team 1380:
- The Blues have had very little dialogue recently with free agent to be Ryan Johnson, who is among league leaders in blocking shots among forwards. The Blues did offer him a contract before the trade deadline, but Johnson turned it down. It is believed Ryan is seeking $1 to $1.5 million.
- Andy said it doesn't make sense that the Blues aren't playing Cam Janssen. He said it makes it seem that management and coaches aren't on the same page because John Davidson said there was a real need for an agitator like Cam, but he isn't in the lineup. Strickland said why wouldn't you want to into Detroit with someone who makes life miserable for the opposition.
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March 5
Andy Strickland's report during the Daily BUZZ on Team 1380:
- University of Maine's season will likely end this weekend, so expect the Blues to get Ben Bishop in Peoria this season.
- The Blues can't call anyone up from the AHL for the rest of the year unless they have an emergency situation such as an injury and have less than 12 forwards.
- If the Blues could bring a forward up Andy would bring up Charles Linglet because he is a top 10 scorer in the AHL and he's great on the power play. Andy added that the knock on Linglet is his skating, and he might not skate well enough to play in the NHL.
- Marek Schwarz has rebounded well after his disaster in Chicago. He has won his last 9 games---6-0 in Alaska and 3-0 in last 3 games in Peoria.
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March 4
Andy Strickland's report during the Daily BUZZ on Team 1380:
- Blues' Coach Andy Murray considered bringing his players back on the ice after their loss Saturday night, and Murray told the players to keep their equipment on after the game Saturday night, but decided against it.
- Blues' 2007 First Draft Pick Lars Eller was named the first star in a game against the top team in the league in the
Swedish Elite League.
- The Blues were offered $200,000 each to play a preseason game next year in Kansas City. The same offer was extended to Chicago, Detroit, and Minnesota.
- TJ Oshie's North Dakota team is ranked in the top 5 in NCAA hockey, and if they go all the way to the Frozen Four, he has little chance of playing for the Blues this season. However, he could still end up playing for Peoria if he signs an amatuer tryout and the Rivermen make the playoffs.
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March 1
Brad Boyes Agrees To New Contract
“Getting Brad signed was one of our top priorities this season,” said Davidson. “We are counting on him to be an integral part of our offense for years to come.”
Boyes, 25, leads the team with 32 goals, a career high, while ranking ninth in the NHL in goal scoring. He ranks second on the Blues with 47 points (32 goals, 15 assists) and ranks second in the NHL with a 20.1 shooting percentage.
The Mississauga, Ontario native has played in a total of 229 career NHL games registering 162 points (75 goals, 87 assists) along with 75 penalty minutes.
The 6-0, 195-pound forward was originally Toronto’s first round selection, 24th overall, in the 2000 NHL Draft. He was acquired from Boston in exchange for Dennis Wideman on February 27, 2007.
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February 26
Blues Trade Salvador to New Jersey for St. Louisan Cam Janssen
ST. LOUIS – St. Louis Blues President John Davidson announced today the club has acquired forward Cam Janssen from the New Jersey Devils in exchange for defenseman Bryce Salvador.
“We feel that Cam’s style of play will bring energy and grit to our lineup and being from St. Louis, feel that he will be an instant fan favorite here,” said Davidson. “Our depth at defense enabled us to make this move. We admire and respect Bryce as a player for what he did on and off the ice in St. Louis and thank Bryce and his wife April for their contributions as members of our family.”
Janssen, 23, was born in St. Louis and played for the St. Louis Sting (NAHL) in 2000-01. He was the first St. Louisan to play in the Ontario Hockey League when he played for Windsor in 2000-01. He was New Jersey’s 4th round choice (117th overall) in the 2002 NHL Entry Draft. The 6-0, 210-pound winger played in 47 games during his rookie season (2005-06) in the NHL and followed that up with 48 games played in 2006-07.
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February 26
Blues Trade Christian Backman to New York Rangers for 4th round draft pick
ST. LOUIS – St. Louis Blues President John Davidson announced today the club has acquired a 2008 4th round draft pick from the New York Rangers in exchange for defenseman Christian Backman
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February 25
Barret Jackman Agrees To Extension
ST. LOUIS – St. Louis Blues President John Davidson announced today that defenseman Barret Jackman has agreed to a contract extension with the club. Per team policy, terms of the deal were not disclosed.
“Barret has been a staple on the blueline for the Blues since his rookie season,” said Davidson. “He logs plenty of minutes per game and will continue to be a key part of our team as we move forward.”
“I have said all along that I wanted to remain in St. Louis,” said Jackman. “The Blues drafted me, I met my wife here and I want to raise a family here. I’m excited about the direction of this franchise and love playing in front of Blues fans.”
Jackman, 26, has played in 58 games with the Blues this season, recording eight points (two goals, six assists) along with 63 penalty minutes. He ranks second on the team in time on ice, averaging 21:57 a game.
Jackman has played in a total of 289 career NHL games all with St. Louis, registering 67 points (13 goals, 54 assists) along with 532 penalty minutes. He became the first Blue in franchise history to capture the Calder Memorial Trophy as the league’s most outstanding rookie in 2002-03.
The Fruitvale, British Columbia native was originally drafted by the Blues as their first round selection, 17th overall in the 1999 Entry Draft.
