Let's make an OTF T-Shirt store together

A couple days ago in one of the comment threads some folks were asking about t-shirts related to OTF, and I've got some good news and bad news on that front.

The bad news? Our old store is no longer in service.

The good news? We can make something MUCH, MUCH BETTER, and if you've got the creative chops to help make it happen, you can make a buck or two along the way, too.

How It Works

We're going to partner up with Spreadshirt.com, a site which allows you to create designs for t-shirts, polos, and all other sorts of apparel and accessories. I've set up a store for OTF in there (http://ontheforecheck.spreadshirt.com/), but so far there's only one product in there, a hack job that I put together of a woman's t-shirt that says "Hey Philly, Match This!".

Why does it look so awful?

Because I have absolutely positively no talent for visual design!

That's where you come in.

With Spreadshirt.com, you can set up your own account, create designs, and place them in their Marketplace. When you do so, you can specify a Design Commission that gets added to the cost of each shirt. I can then select those for inclusion in the OTF Store which will be featured in the sidebar of the site here, and if someone buys a shirt with your design, that commission goes into your account!

Do's and Don'ts

For a tip on color usage, here's a JPG of the current Nashville Predators' logos which you can use as a color guide. NOTE: I can't place any items in the OTF store that contain the official team logo, that's a violation of their trademark & copyright. You can reference those for what colors to use, though.

Want more inspiration? Check out what the gang over at Broad Street Hockey have done, there's some pretty cool stuff in there.

So what are you waiting for? Let's get some good ideas going here... and when you've got a design ready to go, please email me at the.forechecker@gmail.com, so I can check it out. There's no guarantee that every entry will go into the OTF Store, I'd like to make sure we have the best of the best in here.

I know we have some incredibly creative and talented folks in here, so get to work!

NHL Center Ice and the threat of a 2012 lockout

With the threat of a lockout looming ever larger on the horizon for hockey fans, there has been some consideration as to what measures us everyday folks can do to make our voice heard in this squabble between millionaires and billionaires over how to divide their ever-growing pile of lucre.

Should we stop buying tickets? It's now too late for just about anyone who has already renewed their season ticket plans.

Well then, what about TV coverage? One idea that came to mind today was NHL Center Ice, the package which allows you to see a zillion out-of-market games over the course of the season. When I got married back in 1998 and left the state of Michigan, my sole condition for moving to Indiana was that we get satellite TV and the hockey package, so I could satisfy my NHL fix. I've had it ever since, and love it - just not enough to pay for it while no games are going on!

I thought to myself, "I should cancel my package before the automated payments start kicking in, and wait until this whole mess blows over". So I logged into my DirecTV account, and found the following message (emphasis mine)...

This is your first renewal notification for 2012-13 NHL® CENTER ICE®. Because of the potential NHL labor dispute, you will not be charged until there is a confirmed season start date*. This assures that you will not pay for any missed games. Once a settlement is reached, you will begin to see a charge** for NHL® CENTER ICE® and will be set to enjoy another exciting season. If you wish to cancel, you must do so before the season starts; refunds not available after the season starts. *Season currently scheduled to start on 10/10/12 but is subject to change pending the outcome of a new NHL agreement **2012-13 renewal price is 4 payments of $42.95/month. Should there be a delay in the season and games are missed, the price will be adjusted accordingly. This amount will appear on your bill once an agreement has been made.

Follow @Forechecker

I have to say, I'm fairly impressed by this stance (I believe they may have handled this in a similar fashion back in 2004, but still, kudos). It certainly stands in stark comparison to the NHL teams themselves, which are out there furiously selling tickets these days. I just renewed my 12-game pack recently, but made sure only to go for one game in October, given the likelihood that those games might get cancelled.

Now, I found this notice on my DirecTV bill, but what about any of you who subscribe to NHL Center Ice on other outlets? It might be worth checking with your provider...

Milwaukee Admirals announce signing of Foss & Hetényi

The following just came across the wire from Milwaukee:

The Milwaukee Admirals announced today that they have signed defenseman Jeff Foss and goaltender Zoltán Hetényi to American Hockey League contracts.

Foss returns to Milwaukee for his second professional season after splitting the 2010-11 campaign between the Admirals and Cincinnati Cyclones of the ECHL. Last year the Moorhead, MN native posted an assist and 32 penalty minutes in 28 games with the Ads and also skated in a pair of playoff contests. A 2011 R.P.I. graduate, Foss skated in 11 games with the Cyclones, recording an assist, four penalty minutes and +5 rating.

Hetényi, a native of Budapest, Hungary, will make his North American professional debut his year. He began last season with Jokerit of SM-ligga in Finland where he notched a 1.75 goals against average and a .936 save percentage in seven games before being loaned to Kiekko-Vantaa where he tallied a 3.04 GAA with a .912 save percentage in 11 contests. The 24-year old netminder (2/18/1988), has represented his native country many times in international competition and helped Hungary qualify for the top division of the 2009 World Championships, their first appearance there in 70 years.

With Chet Pickard heading across the Atlantic to play in Sweden, Hetényi is presumably the #3 guy for the Admirals behind Jeremy Smith and Magnus Hellberg. I imagine he'll spend most of his time in Cincinnati. Foss was a 6th-round draft choice by the Nashville Predators in 2008.

Since these are AHL contracts, they don't count against Nashville's 50-man reserve list limit (which you can check out at CapGeek).

Preds ready to launch, but may get stuck on the runway: Saturday's notes

As the Nashville Predators enjoy their day as the featured team in NHL.com's "30 for 30" series, a troublesome business issue rears its ugly head. After having dealt with a crooked minority owner and a fraudulent arena sponsor in recent years, now the team's air charter is spiraling out of control...

I Pity The Fool who doesn't save 20% on hockey equipment this weekend | Hockey Gear HQ
If you're not saving 20% on hockey equipment this weekend, you can't blame me for not trying to help!

Nashville Predators News

Predators' travel plans up in air with Swift Air bankruptcy, lawsuit | The Tennessean
Yikes, it looks like not only the Preds, but other NHL teams as well could be affected by the business troubles of a charter air service. This season, the Preds' are scheduled for the 11th-most travel miles based on the way the schedule plays out. Thanks to Charlie Jones on Twitter, for pointing out that Swift Air is owned by former Phoenix Coyotes owner Jerry Moyes. No wonder, then!

30 in 30: Nashville Predators still confident with Shea Weber, Pekka Rinne extensions - NHL.com
As today's featured team at NHL.com, the Preds are getting their time in the spotlight.

Nashville Predators' depth should overcome lineup losses - NHL.com
The host of developing young players should prevent a big step backwards due to the departure of Ryan Suter.

Nashville Predators build talent pool without No. 1 picks - NHL.com
Cue the Who - "the kids are alright..."

Defenseman Ryan Ellis must do more for the Nashville Predators - NHL.com
Things are certainly set up for him to play in a sheltered role on the right side behind Weber & Klein, and contribute on the power play.

Pekka Rinne, Colin Wilson among Nashville Predators' six questions - NHL.com
Yes, Yes, Yes, No, Yes, Yes.

Top Shelf Prospects: Nashville Predators | Last Word On Sports
A thorough look at three young Preds working their way up through the ranks.

Five Sleepers for 2012-13: The NHL's Western Conference - Angus Certified
One observer pegs Roman Josi for a big year.

Paul McCann - The "L" Word
Paul is redirecting his planned road trip for the upcoming season...

Top Moments From 2011-2012 – #8: Vancouver Rollercoaster Comeback | The Predatorial
This was one of the wilder games of the season.

A Dangerous and Deceptive Third Line: Matt Halischuk | The Predatorial
More love for the Bottom Six.

Around the Wide Wide World of Hockey

Source: NHLPA Plan B involves KHL games - sportsnet.ca
These sound pretty interesting, but forget about anything close to here.

NHL: Players, Owners have every reason to agree to new CBA on time - ESPN
Scott Burnside says the "fans should bolt if CBA halts season". Fat chance that'll happen. Remember, we're "fans", not disinterested consumers purchasing a commodity.

What will the NHLPA’s counter offer look like? | Edmonton Journal
If I were in the NHLPA, I'd go for UFA status after 5 years, 2 year ELC's, and offer a concession with the players' share being cut to 55% of hockey-related revenues.

The threat of a future lockout is partially my fault. - Battle of California
Partially? I'm putting ALL the blame on Earl.

Brandon Dubinsky: From Blueshirt to Blue Jacket - The Hockey Writers
Get familiar with an opponent we'll see six times a season now.

Dan Ellis Summer Training Video - The Goalie Guild
The former Predator is working his way back to regular NHL duty.

After Doan, teams may hunt Stars' Morrow - sportsnet.ca
Next on the pecking order of veteran physical wingers who can score...

Quick Has 'Minor' Back Surgery (Or: Don't Trade Jonathan Bernier, Part Deux) - Jewels From The Crown
Well, he did carry that team to the Stanley Cup.

The "Dave Tippett effect" | NHLNumbers.com
How much can defensive scheming by coaches affect goaltending numbers?

NHLnumbers Podcast: All About Tracking | NHLNumbers.com
It's too bad volunteers have to track data like scoring chances and zone entries. Can't we just fast-forward to 5 years from now when the NHL does this job well and makes the data publicly available?

Pythagorean expectation, or, maybe the Oilers aren’t horrible after all | Backhand Shelf
I love this kind of stuff.

Love, Loss, and the Lockout: Qasa’id for Hockey Fans | Backhand Shelf
Hockey, we just can't quit you.

OHL Announces Fines / Sanctions - OHL Network
The Windsor Spitfires got the smack dropped down on them. I wonder if this has to do with Mojo accounts?

Source says Phoenix Coyotes sale to Jamison is done

Congratulations to the hockey fans out in the Phoenix area, as our SB Nation colleagues over at Five For Howling are passing along information indicating that the sale of the team to Greg Jamison's group will indeed go through, although a formal announcement won't likely come for a few weeks. These guys don't toy around with tossing rumors and reports out there, so it's unusual

A source that has worked with the Coyotes management team for years has passed along some very exciting news, telling Five For Howling that the sale of the team to Greg Jamison is done. This source had normally been very cautious about their statements regarding this whole thing, part of the reason we're confident this is indeed the real deal.

At this point we do not have a definitive time table, although we have heard that the announcement won't be made until later, probably closer to the Coyotes training camp. Additionally, another close source has said that the "Coyotes weren't going anywhere," and if you were waiting to buy a new Yotes sweater you won't have to wait long.

Here at Five for Howling, we do our best to steer clear of the rumor mill, even more so adding to rumors. With much debate, we have decided to come forth with information that we feel confident enough to report on.

I'm optimistic that with the right management team in place, hockey can work out there. Jerry Moyes was a terrible owner, paying Wayne Gretzky millions to be one of the worst coaches in the league, and basically burning the organization to the ground trying to run his bankruptcy gambit with Jim Balsillie. The hockey operations group led by GM Don Maloney and head coach Dave Tippet have done an incredible job making the playoffs three straight years amid all these distractions, and deserve a standing O from fans around the league for the work they've done.

Instead of rummaging through a collection of hockey notes this morning (there isn't much other than CBA hand-wringing), let's just give our congratulations to the folks in Phoenix.

The Lucky 13 Club: Who is the greatest #13 in Nashville Predators history?

The Nashville Predators jersey series moves on to lucky 13. We only have two contenders this time, and we can definitely say at least one of these players has proven to be quite instrumental in the Predators structuring a successful team built around young players.

Jere Karalahti

This Finnish defenseman packed a punch on the ice when he played his first season in the NHL with the Los Angeles Kings in 2001-2002. Karalahti had a booming slap shot , and his checks were no less explosive. Nevertheless, Coach Andy Murray found Karalahti to be lacking in discipline and quickly made him a healthy scratch (off-ice issues with drugs became a troubling issue for him).

Karalahti was soon after traded to the Nashville Predators for veteran center Cliff Ronning, on March 16, 2002. After only 15 games with Nashville, with a total of 1 assist (yet a whopping 12 PIM), Karalahti decided to return overseas to rejoin his former club team in Finland. On the international stage, Karalahti's résumé is more impressive: he is a two-time member of Finland's World Junior team (1994-1995) and a six-time member of its World Championship team (1998-2000, 2002, 2004 and 2005).

Nick Spaling

Spaling has proven to be the quintessential center that provides the necessary depth the Predators have striven to achieve in the last couple of years. At the 2007 NHL Entry Draft, Spaling was selected in the second round, 58th overall, by the Preds. He made his debut with the Milwaukee Admirals the following season and did very well, accumulating 12 goals and 35 points, as well as a +6 rating, in 79 games. He was then reassigned to the Predators the next season. He appeared in only 28 games with them, in which he registered only three assists. Eventually, he was moved back down to Milwaukee for the rest of the season, where he scored 7 goals and 17 points in 48 games.

Spaling once again made it back to the Predators lineup in the 10-11 season, and this time, he was determined to stay. Spaling scored 8 goals and 14 points in 74 games, yet he was a horrible -10 that season. He did prove to be an important asset in the first two rounds of the 2011 Stanley Cup Playoffs, as he was a +3, and he amassed 2 goals and 6 points in the 12 games the Preds spent in the postseason. That subsequent offseason was especially important for the young center, as Spaling signed a two-year contract with the Nashville Predators worth $2.1 million. This past year, Spaling continued to improve. In 77 games during the regular season, he scored 10 goals and 22 points (though he was still a -7 by the end of the season). In the Playoffs this year, he had 3 assists in 10 games and was a +4.

Spaling most recently played on the fourth line, often centering Brandon Yip and Craig Smith. Since the Predators still have some voids to fill in their roster, Spaling's role may change pending further roster moves.

Poll

Who is the greatest #13 in Nashville Predators history?

• Jere Karalahti
• Nick Spaling

  368 votes | Results

Bettman plays the "Lockout" card: Thursday afternoon notes

The words weren't a surprise to anyone, but it is sobering to see NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman finally come out and state that if a new CBA isn't in effect by September 15, the owners will indeed lock out the players. After weeks of cordiality and pleasantries, it looks like trench warfare is finally about to get underway between the NHL and NHLPA.

Updates from the CBA negotiations dominate your afternoon hockey notes, but hey, there's some good news in here, too.

48-Hour Sale knocks 25-40% off NHL apparel | Hockey Gear HQ
This is the perfect sale to jump on if you're looking for back-to-school hockey items like hoodies, t-shirts, or other team-related gear. But hurry, it expires on Friday at 11 a.m. Central.

Nashville Predators News

Looks like the Predators are close to signing Mike Fisher to a contract extension.

— David Pagnotta (@TheFourthPeriod) August 9, 2012

Well, here's one piece of good news they could trumpet whenever the Skate of the Union Town Hall meeting gets scheduled.

Around the Wide Wide World of Hockey

National Hockey League commissioner Gary Bettman updates CBA talks - ESPN
Yup, the tone is turning sour...

The Beginning of the Long, Slow March - The Spin
Damian Cox has written off the first quarter of the season already.

Spector on NHL: Dispelling some CBA myths - sportsnet.ca
Mark Spector bursts a few bubbles.

Why having character guys in the dressing room matters | Backhand Shelf
In case you didn't know.

Dominik Hasek, still looking for NHL contract, begins training with Czech club Pardubice | Puck Daddy
The Dominator rages against the dying of the spotlight.

10 bold predictions for the NHL season – USATODAY.com
Warning - this guy

Hockey at The Movies: Slap Shot | The Hockey Writers

Seriously, if you haven't seen this yet...

Who is the greatest #14 in Nashville Predators history?

Here's something you may not have known (and that I didn't know until I sat down to write this): more Nashville Predators have worn the number 14 than any other sweater number in franchise history.

10 players have donned 14 for Nashville. The next most popular number is 28, worn by nine players. The old saying "quality over quantity" certainly applies here, though, as many of these #14s were journeymen who only played in Nashville for part of a season.

Greg de Vries

De Vries - along with Drake Berehowsky and Éric Fichaud - was traded to Nashville from Edmonton in exchange for Jim Dowd and Mikhail Shtalenkov. But just 23 days later, the Predators traded the defenseman to Colorado for a second-round pick, where he would eventually win a Stanley Cup in 2001.

He appeared in six games for the Predators, accumulating four penalty minutes, one shot on goal and a -4 +/- rating.

Brett Hauer

The Predators acquired Hauer from the LA Kings in a trade for Rich Brennan. Hauer appeared in just three games on defense for Nashville during the 2001-02 season, scoring zero points in 31 minutes of total ice time. He never played in another NHL game, instead opting to finish his career in Europe.

Steve Dubinsky

Dubinsky was traded to the Predators on February 6, 2002 by Chicago for future considerations. He became the first #14 to get on the scoresheet in Nashville, tallying five goals and two assists in 26 games at center. The Predators let him go in free agency at the end of the 2002 season.

Rich Brennan

Another defenseman, Brennan was signed as a free agent before the 2001 season. He spent much of his time in the minor leagues, appearing in only four games for the big club, and scoring no points, before being traded for the aforementioned Hauer.

Jon Sim

Originally drafted by the Dallas Stars, Sim was traded to the Predators for Bubba Berenzweig (now there's a name) and future considerations on February 17, 2003. The left winger appeared in four games for Nashville, scoring one goal, before the Predators put him on waivers and he was claimed by Los Angeles.

Oleg Petrov

Nashville acquired Petrov on March 3, 2003 from Montreal in exchange for a fourth-round pick. Petrov played in 17 games, scoring two goals and two assists. The Predators let him go in free agency, and he was signed to Geneve in the Swiss league.

Jordin Tootoo

Nashville's favorite enforcer (well, former favorite) wore the number 14 in 2006 before switching to 22 in 2007. In '06, Tootoo played in 65 games, scoring just three points and six assists, but adding a whopping 116 penalty minutes.

Ramzi Abid

The Predators signed Abid as a free agent before the 2006 season. He played in 13 games for the Predators, notching a goal and four assists at left wing. Abid never appeared in another NHL game, instead opting to head to Europe after 2006.

Radek Bonk

Bonk was a fan favorite if for no other reason than the name alone. Bonk was the first Nashville #14 to play for more than one season after being signed as a free agent before the 2007 season. He played in 151 total games in Nashville (six in the playoffs) and notched a total of 24 goals and 31 assist during that time.

He, like so many other 14s before him, went to Europe after his career with the Predators came to an end.

Dustin Boyd

The Predators acquired Boyd on March 3, 2010 from Calgary for a fouth-round pick in order to build some depth at forward for a playoff push. Boyd scored three goals and two assists that season, and was traded in the offseason along with Dan Ellis to Montreal for Sergei Kostitsyn.

Poll

So who is the greatest Predator to wear #14?

• Greg de Vries
• Brett Hauer
• Steve Dubinsky
• Rich Brennan
• Jon Sim
• Oleg Petrov
• Jordin Tootoo (during the '06 season only!!)
• Ramzi Abid
• Radek Bonk (#bonk)
• Dustin Boyd (thank you for allowing us to get Sergei)

  82 votes | Results

Good news for Phoenix Coyotes fans: Thursday's notes

The on-again, off-again tale of the Phoenix Coyotes appears to have swung to the "on-again" position, as just a few days after reports surfaced that Greg Jamison was $20 million short, we now hear that more investors have come on board to bolster his bid.

That story, and talk of Colin Wilson moving over to play center this season, lead off your morning hockey notes...

48-Hour Sale knocks 25-40% off NHL apparel | Hockey Gear HQ
This is the perfect sale to jump on if you're looking for back-to-school hockey items like hoodies, t-shirts, or other team-related gear. But hurry, it expires on Friday at 11 a.m. Central.

Nashville Predators News

Why The Predators Are Not As Screwed As People Think | Hooked On Hockey Magazine
Things coulda been a whole lot worse, writes Kayla.

Pekka Rinne may see less time in 2012-13 - Puck Drunk Love
Will Chris Mason take more of the load off of Peks than Anders Lindback did?

Smashville 24/7 - Assessing the Central Division’s off-season
Ryan wonders if the rest of the Columbus roster will step up in the absence of Rick Nash, as the Thrashers did in post-Kovalchuk Atlanta. I can only assume that means the Blue Jackets will be playing in Quebec City in a couple years?

Nashville Predators' Colin Wilson seeks balance on ice | The Tennessean
Trying out Colin Wilson at center during training camp? Interesting...

Around the Wide Wide World of Hockey

Phoenix Coyotes sale back on track as Greg Jamison secures investors - NHL - Sporting News
The roller coaster takes a turn for the positive in Phoenix.

Red Wings talking to Calgary Flames about making trade for veteran defenseman Jay Bouwmeester | MLive.com
I'd probably rather see the Preds get this guy than Shane Doan, at the salary they're talking about.

What is Hockey Related Revenue? | Red Light
For those of you seeking a deep dive into one of the more contentious CBA issues.

NHL, NHL Players' Association battle on supplementary discipline during labor talks - ESPN New York
Instead of using "cordial", both sides are now saying that discussions are "lively", including "heated exchanges". Just wait until the NHLPA's counter-proposal hits the table, folks.

Summer Hockey: Canada U20 vs. Russia U20 Challenge - Puck Worlds
While Team USA plays Sweden & Finland in Lake Placid, the Canadians and Russians duke it out in Yaroslavl.

Two of the oldest hockey videos you will ever see - CBSSports.com
Old Tyme Hockey, eh? Man, Chelios could really fly back then.

Hockey's Mike Modano, actress Willa Ford divorcing - NHL.com\
Is it weird for a story on NHL.com to start a headline with "Hockey's..."?

Builders of Markham arena look familiar - The Globe and Mail
The same crew who built the Air Canada Centre in Toronto are lined up for this new rink on the north side of town.

Announcement: Upcoming Scouting Reports - Fantasy Hockey Scouts
All you aspiring fantasy hockey managers out there... stay tuned for a dynamite package of material that you'll want to check out.

Hal Gill is a beast, Shane Doan's agent touts major offer: Wednesday afternoon notes

Well whattaya know, for a mid-August day we've actually got enough going on to bring you a second bushel-full of hockey notes, starting off with a thorough examination of what Hal Gill went through in order to play on a broken legagainst the Phoenix Coyotes during the playoffs...

48-Hour Sale knocks 25-40% off NHL apparel | Hockey Gear HQ
This is the perfect sale to jump on if you're looking for back-to-school hockey items like hoodies, t-shirts, or other team-related gear. But hurry, it expires on Friday at 11 a.m. Central.

Nashville Predators News

The Quiet Room: Holy Hell, Hal Gill. | Backhand Shelf
"Yes, you can actually play hockey on a broken leg if you load it up with enough anesthetic. It also helps if you’re a badass, which Hal Gill apparently is."

NY Rangers a favorite to land Phoenix Coyotes forward Shane Doan - NY Daily News
Doan's agent says that "a team outside of New York has offered Doan a four-year deal worth at least $7 million per season". The rumor-mongers on Twitter (seriously, people?) are pointing the finger at Nashville, but boy, I sure hope it's not true. That's way too much money and term, even for an old-fashioned Canadian power forward like Doan.

14 Shades of Shea: Ranking Shea Weber's Career Highlights - The Hockey Writers
Another Predators blogger hits the internet...

Top Moments From 2011-2012 – #9: Kevin Klein the GOALIE | The Predatorial
Kris celebrates a time when Kleiner bailed himself (and Peks) out.

2012 U.S. WJC Camp: Previewing Day 5 Action — USA vs. Finland | The United States of Hockey
Preds draftee Jimmy Vesey was scratched today.

Around the Wide Wide World of Hockey

Hartnell on CBA talks: Owners pulled 'a 180' - CSN Philly
Scott Hartnell vents over the owners' bald-faced cash grab.

Jeff Skinner signs 6-year, $34.35 million extension with Hurricanes | Puck Daddy
Cha-ching!

On the realization that "Holy crap, I really want to watch the Carolina Hurricanes next season" | Backhand Shelf
Hey, I think they've become my Eastern Conference team to watch.

Joel Ward on awkward hernia moments and getting a call from the FBI - DC Sports Bog - The Washington Post
Dude, TMI!

A second Toronto team now makes almost too much sense (Trending Topics Extra) | Puck Daddy
This would be the slammingest slam dunk of all-time for the NHL.

Jeff Jacobs: Give Howard Baldwin Credit For Trying, But The NHL Dream Is Dead — For Now - Hartford Courant
One city you can cross off the list for getting back an NHL team is Hartford.

Understanding Turner's Acquisition Of Bleacher Report - Awful Announcing
How does a site loaded with crap content like Bleacher Report hit the $195 million jackpot? A veneer of credibility and soaring metrics explain a lot. If anyone wants to buy me out for, say, 10% of that price, I'm all ears.

The Dirty Dozen: Who is the greatest #12 in Nashville Predators history?

Since David Legwand is the only #11 in Nashville Predators history, our series of jersey number polls skips up to #12, featuring seven players who served from the very first game the Preds ever played, all the way up to a popular leader on today's team.

Follow @Forechecker

Brad Smyth

Smyth played just three games for Nashville during the opening month in franchise history (including the very first game on October 10, 1998), spending the rest of that season with Milwaukee. In May 1999, he was traded to the Rangers for that ultimate prospect, "Future Considerations".

Rob Valicevic

Originally a New York Islanders draft pick, Valicevic picked up the #12 from Smyth later in the 1998-1999 season, playing 19 games that year and adding 140 more over the next two. His best pro campaign came in 1999-2000, with 14 goals and 11 assists patrolling the right wing for the Preds.

He does hold one remarkable spot in Nashville lore. On November 10, 1999, he recorded the first hat trick in franchise history, a 4-2 road win at Chicago. He still holds the franchise record for the fastest three goals by an individual in a road game, as they all came within a span of 11:12 of the first period that night.

Reid Simpson

A rough-and-tumble scrapper straight out of Flin Flon who played 301 NHL games for a total of 9 teams, Simpson was claimed off waivers by the Preds in January 2002 and played 26 games down the stretch that season, along with 26 more the next season before leaving as a free agent. All in all, he tallied 5 goals and one assist in those 52 games, but a hefty 125 penalty minutes!

Yves Sarault

Sarault was a winger who spent portions of 8 different seasons in the NHL, and capped off his time in the bigs with one game playing for Nashville in the 2001-2002 season, coming on December 2 against Anaheim. He logged 5:15 in ice time but didn't record any points.

Scott Nichol

Scooter was a heart & soul checking center and penalty killing specialist during his Nashville run covering the first four seasons following the Great Lockout. Nichol's feisty style was always appealing to fans (even if it did sometimes boil over and cause headaches), and it's a testament to his drive and competitiveness that he's still chipping away at age 37, signed up for another year in St. Louis.

Andreas Thuresson

A workmanlike plugger on the wing, Thuresson's apex came during the 2009-2010 season when he played 22 games for Nashville, scoring his lone NHL goal. He suited up for three games with the Preds the next season, but was more of a full-time Milwaukee Admiral for four seasons, before heading back over the Atlantic.

Mike Fisher

Carrie Underwood's husband made quite a splash when he arrived ahead of the 2011 Trade Deadline, and has fit in smoothly right from Day One. He serves as a leader on the ice and off, and seems well-suited to be a public face for the team.

In 99 regular season games for Nashville, Fisher has put up 29 goals and 34 assists. In 22 playoff contests, he's chipped in four goals and seven assists.

Poll

Who is the greatest #12 in Nashville Predators history?

• Mike Fisher
• Scott Nichol
• Yves Sarault
• Reid Simpson
• Brad Smyth
• Andreas Thuresson
• Rob Valicevic

  307 votes | Results

Are the Predators pushing hard enough for Shane Doan?

The one unrestricted free agent the hockey world is still raving about is Shane Doan, and time is ticking for the 35-year-old right winger. Doan has played the waiting time for as long as he reasonably could with Phoenix. The Phoenix Business Journal reported July 28 that the team's potential new owner, Greg Jamison, is $20 million short of what he needs to keep the team in Phoenix. Doan has explicitly stated that if the situation permits, he will stay in Phoenix. However, with the ownership situation looking quite gloomy, Doan has conjured up an asking price of four years, $30 million.

According to Josh Cooper of the Tennessean, Predators Coach Barry Trotz has been in personal contact with Shane Doan and over the last month, and Shane Doan has allegedly stated that Nashville is on his "short list." All seems dandy, as even GM David Poile stated last week that the Predators have interest in Doan join the Predators if he finally gives up on the franchise with which he has been his entire professional career. Nevertheless, rumors have been abuzz about Shane Doan's ultimate decision, and it is quite clear he is looking for a team that is not just a cash dispensary, but also a serious Stanley Cup contender.

Larry Brooks of the New York Post reported on Sunday that Doan has narrowed his sights on three teams: New York, Pittsburgh, and Vancouver. These teams have money to spend and are all anxious to bring Doan on board. The Rangers have become a top-heavy team with the addition of Rick Nash and the loss of Brandon Dubinsky, Artem Anisimov, and Brandon Prust, and they are looking to Doan to fill that depth void. The Canucks, who lack a power forward and can use some veteran leadership, have gone as far as to woo their client to come to the team over an Italian dinner featuring an antipasto rustico platter of cured meats and marinated olives, carne and pesce piatto of veal, trout, prawns and penne followed by desserts (no word on the wine tab). Pittsburgh continues to express interest in Doan, as he may work his way into the first two lines of the team very fluidly.

The bottom line is this: Doan is being hunted by many, and the price these teams are willing to pay is high. Poile claims that Doan is not expected to visit here due to his familiarity with Nashville. Nevertheless, the Predators need to be doing anything they can to sign Doan. He is the star forward the team needs now, especially after losing Alexander Radulov, and it is time for the Predators to be reckoned with as a Stanley Cup contender.

Nashville Predators announce #MySmashville finalists

After taking in a host of fan entries for a marketing tagline for the upcoming season, the Nashville Predators (through COO Sean Henry's Twitter account) have announced the finalists in the #MySmashville Fan Challenge...

#mysmashville #FINAL4 @predsnhl The 1st Finalist in the My Smashville Contest is "SMASHVILLE RISE" by Kevin Crozier

— PREDSident (@PREDSident) August 8, 2012

#mysmashville #FINAL4 @predsnhl The 2nd Finalist in the My Smashville Contest is"Our Town, Our Team" by Scott Howard

— PREDSident (@PREDSident) August 8, 2012

#mysmashville #FINAL4 @predsnhl The 3rd Finalist in the My Smashville Contest is "Hear Our Roar" by Ryan Vircik

— PREDSident (@PREDSident) August 8, 2012

#mysmashville #FINAL4 @predsnhl The 4th and final Finalist in the My Smashville Contest is "Bleed GOLD" by Jill Jones

— PREDSident (@PREDSident) August 8, 2012

So the question is... which do you think should represent the team this season? Do any of these get you fired up for the new campaign?

Poll

Which slogan do you like best?

• Smashville Rise
• Our Town, Our Team
• Hear Our Roar
• Bleed Gold

  276 votes | Results

Who is the greatest #10 in Nashville Predators history?

Our Predators jersey series moves on to number 10. Though there are only three players that have ever donned that number in the team's history, two of the three will be remembered undoubtedly as figures who greatly impacted the fate of the Predators.

Patric Kjellberg

Another player that joined the Predators during the inaugural season, the Swedish forward was acquired by the Predators after playing in Sweden for six seasons. Prior to arriving to Nashville, Kjellberg was part of the Swedish squad that captured the gold medal on Peter Forsberg's dramatic shoot-out goal at the Olympics and the gold medal at the 1998 World Championships. The Predators scouted all across Europe to add depth to the fledgling franchise and were able to bring Kjellberg back to the NHL (Kjellberg had played for the Montreal Canadiens).

In his first season with the Predators, Kjellberg scored 11 goals and 31 points. The following season he improved to 23 goals and just as many assists, finishing second in points on the team. Moreover, at the end of the season, Kjellberg had the greatest number of powerplay goals on the team (9) and had the highest shooting percentage (17.8%). The following year, Kjellberg tallied only 14 goals, yet his point total hovered around the same number (45), good for third on the team. By the time the fourth season rolled around, Kjellberg was not the same point accumulating machine he had been the last three years for the Preds, which led to his trade to the Mighty Ducks of Anaheim on November 1, 2001, for Petr Tenkrat.

Clarke Wilm

Before joining the Predators organization for the 02-03 season, Wilm played four seasons in Calgary. After only one season in Nashville, in which Wilm amassed 5 goals and 16 points (and a horrible +/- rating of -11), the former Saskatoon Blade junior was acquired by the Toronto Maple Leafs in the summer of 2003, where he would struggle to produce offensively and would mostly spend the rest of his professional hockey league career in North America in the AHL.

Martin Erat

The other well known "Marty" of the NHL besides Martin Broudeur of the New Jersey Devils has proven to be an invaluable asset to the Predators since his debut with the team in the 01-02 season. It is quite mind-blowing that Erat was drafted in the seventh round of the 1999 Entry Draft and has now proven to be a formidable top-six forward for Nashville. In his debut season, Erat finished with a remarkable 33 points (9-24-33) in 80 games. Though Erat underwent a slump and was reassigned to Milwaukee for the season the following year, he would return to the NHL readier than ever to earn his way to the top of the Predators lineup. This of course occurred after changing his number from 19 to 10 in the offseason. In the 03-04 season, Erat went on to establish a career high 49 points (16-33-49), as well as a +10 rating (second on the team), helping the Preds reach the post season for the first time in franchise history. In the 06-07 season, Erat secured his spot on the team's top unit, often being paired with David Legwand and Paul Kariya.

Since that magical season for Erat, he has not sunk below 49 points in a season and has performed phenomenally both on the NHL and international stages. Erat is second on the Predators roster for all-time games played (616), goals (140), assists (262), points (402), and multiple-point games (87). Due to his consistent success, Erat signed a 7 year, $31.5 million dollar contract with the Predators following the 07-08 season. On the international scene, Erat represented the Czech Republic in the 2001 World Junior Championship in their run to winning to the gold medal. In the 2006 Winter Olympics he helped the Czech team secure a Bronze Medal. In 2006 and 2008, Erat was selected to play alongside his countrymen in the World Hockey Championship, winning a silver medal in 2006 in Riga, Latvia.

Poll

Who is the greatest #10 in Nashville Predators history?

• Martin Erat
• Patric Kjellberg
• Clarke Wilm

  445 votes | Results

Report: Preds being sued by radio "intern"

The Nashville City Paper brings news that the Predators are being sued by Adam Davis of 107.5 "The River", after a practice run for an on-ice promotion resulted in a broken ankle:

Davis, better known on WRVW-107.5 The River as Intern Adam, was supposed to be slung down the ice on a sled and into a set-up of bowling pins. But during the rehearsal prior to the Preds' game against the Calgary Flames, he missed the pins completely and crashed into the side of the rink.

...

Davis was transported to Vanderbilt University Medical Center where screws had to be placed in his ankle.

I'd be surprised if the Preds let this take place without waivers being signed (as the City Paper report claims), as these stunts obviously carry some degree of risk. But that's what courts are for, to sort out all the evidence.

Here's video of the incident from the radio station's YouTube channel. There is some (mostly unintelligible) NSFW language:

SB Nation mourns the loss of Tim Allen of Canis Hoopus

The entire SB Nation community is saddened by the passing of Tim Allen, one of the managers of Canis Hoopus, which covers the NBA's Minnesota Timberwolves. He was just 29. Reports indicate that he took his own life Monday evening. This was just posted over at Canis Hoopus:

All of SB Nation is struck by this tragic loss including those of us who had a chance to meet Tim in person and those who only knew him through his great work here at Canis Hoopus. Our thoughts and prayers go out to Tim's family and friends as they mourn his passing.

We delayed publishing this news as long as we could out of respect to Tim's family. We wanted to given them as much time as possible to share this devastating news with those they needed to inform.

In the coming hours and days we will follow up with more information about donations in Tim's name and other details as appropriate.

On a personal note, as the NBA League Manager for SB Nation I had the pleasure of working with Tim and was able to spend some time with him in Las Vegas just a few weeks ago. I don't need to tell you what a great person he was and how much insight and pleasure he brought to our world. His departure leaves a giant hole in our lives.

The entire SB Nation family stands with this community and with Tim's family. We will do everything possible to honor his life and mourn his passing as best we can.

If you or someone you know is hurting and you're concerned about their welfare, please engage some of the many resources that are out there and can help. One such example is the Jason Foundation, which Jordin Tootoo supported with a donation from his Team Tootoo Fund earlier this year.

Why on Earth would the Predators give Shea Weber a no-trade clause? Wednesday's notes

Buried at the bottom of yesterday's blog entry about the Preds' supposedly being on Shane Doan's "short list" (David has more on that here), Josh Cooper provides a bit of an update on the talks between the Predators and Shea Weber's agents about adding a no-trade clause to the gargantuan contract which the team agreed to match. I can't pull up the article right now, but it basically said the two sides are still talking.

Why?

I can't think of one good reason why the Nashville Predators should agree to give Weber a no-trade clause.

Just as Weber said in his conference call after the Preds announced their intention to match, "it's just business". The team has absolutely nothing to gain by giving Weber that clause, and he has nothing to offer in exchange. Thanks to Philadelphia's offer sheet, the financial terms of this contract are already set. If Weber doesn't like the fact that he doesn't have a no-trade clause while other superstars do, well, he has 110 million ways to get over that.

I'm surprised this issue has played out as long as it has, actually. All the CBA has to say on the subject is that when a team matches an offer sheet, they "shall be deemed to have entered into a binding agreement, which they shall promptly formalize in an SPC" (standard player contract). It's been over two weeks now, and still the deal has yet to be cemented.

Why the delay, Shea?

Ponder what's going on here while reading your morning hockey notes...

Shop.NHL.com is having a Back to School sale - get Free Shipping on orders >$50 if you use the code BTSFS.

Nashville Predators News

Monday Night Forehand 08/06 by HasBeenSports | Blog Talk Radio
Justin & Ben take a tour around the Central Division...

A Dangerous and Deceptive 3rd Line: Gabriel Bourque | The Predatorial
A quick post on a fast player.

2012 U.S. WJC Camp: USA Sends Eleven Players Home | The United States of Hockey
So far, so good for Jimmy Vesey.

Checking In With Admirals Play-By-Play Extraordinaire Aaron Sims | Admirals Roundtable
Shame on Ryan for not asking a follow-up to the last question. Elvis, or Fine Young Cannibals?

Around the Wide Wide World of Hockey

Down Goes Brown: Other "thank you" newspaper ads from NHL stars through the years
As always, DGB brings the funny. What, no Ryan Suter?

Doan’s destination? Well, it won’t be San Jose — plus speculating on how lines shape up, new numbers | Working the Corners
One of the few places that is out of the running apparently is San Jose.

Baltimore Ravens hire Sandy Weil; embrace statistics - NFL.com
NFL teams are jumping on the analytics train. Frankly, any major sports team would be nuts not to invest some resources in this area, considering the "bang for the buck" relative to player payrolls ranging from $50-200 million.

Almost famous: Lessons from a near miss | NHLNumbers.com
Eric shares a great example of how one shouldn't run to the presses as soon as you find something which looks at first glance like groundbreaking insight.

Which injured star from 2011-12 needs the biggest 2012-13? | Puck Drunk Love
Keep an eye out for David Perron in the year ahead.

Jack Jablonski Marks Another Huge Milestone - Hockey Wilderness
Awesome news for the hockey player who was paralyzed and is fighting his way through physical therapy.

Devils in a hard place: Tuesday's notes

What, you thought Phoenix was the only hard-luck story around the NHL these days? Nope, the ugly tale of Jeff Vanderbeek and his debt troubles in New Jersey is surfacing once again...

Shop.NHL.com is having a Back to School sale - get Free Shipping on orders >$50 if you use the code BTSFS.

Nashville Predators News

Top Moments From 2011-2012 – #10: Weber ties and beats Detroit in the final 5 minutes | The Predatorial
Take a flashback to a fun game from last December...

2012 U.S. WJC Camp: Day 3 Recap – USA White vs. Sweden | The United States of Hockey
Patrick Pontus Aberg scored for Sweden...

2012 U.S. WJC Camp: Day 3 Recap — USA Blue vs. Finland | The United States of Hockey
While USA's other squad pulled off a win over Finland.

Around the Wide Wide World of Hockey

Devils owner short, needs $20M more - NYPOST.com
Brother, can you spare $20 million?

Engineering Hockey Sense: Teaching the "Unteachable" | All Habs Hockey Magazine
Sweeeeeeeet.

Fehr says still sufficient time to get NHL deal done - The Globe and Mail
tick... tock... tick... tock...

Are ad logos coming to NHL sweaters? | Red Light
You know, I wouldn't be surprised to see something along these lines, as a way for both the players and owners to make a bit more coin while squabbling over the share of revenues in the CBA.

The Free World | Backhand Shelf
E always makes me feel like the crappiest writer on the planet by comparison. Here, she captures her hockey-playing persona (which pretty much matches my own): "On the ice I am pure role-player, everything focussed on keeping my position, knowing my place, and supporting the better players on my team. I measure my success not in goals and assists but board-battles won and passes completed, on keeping it in their zone or getting it out of mine. I’m not good individually. I don’t need to be good individually. I just want to be a good part of a team."

Red Wings are still searching for a defenseman - Detroit Free Press
Detroit may be after some of the same guys the Preds could use.

Hockey as an industry | Backhand Shelf
Cam wonders if anything can be done about the business-like manner in which personality gets ground out of hockey players.

Brian Burke and Long-Term Contracts | Toronto Maple Leafs
Is Burke fighting with one hand tied behind his back?

Pat Sajak Somehow Ended Up On A Sidney Crosby Hockey Card - Deadspin
Outstanding.

NHL Goal Songs | The Hockey Writers
Now here's a useful resource, a sampling of every team's celebratory song.

Who is the Greatest #9 in Nashville Predators history?

Our Nashville Predators jersey number series moves on to one of the more hallowed digits in hockey history. In cities around the NHL, the #9 hangs from the rafters honoring the likes of Gordie Howe & Rocket Richard. While no Preds have lived up to those lofty standards quite yet, there have been a few memorable players suiting up with that number...

Follow @Forechecker

Darren Turcotte (1998-1999)

Picked up in trade from St. Louis prior to the Preds' inaugural season, Turcotte had at one time been a productive offensive center, but his best days were well behind him by the time he made it to Nashville. He played just 40 games that season, with 4 goals and 5 assists, along with 9 more in 1999-2000 before a knee injury ended his career.

Greg Classen (2000-2003)

A center who spent his entire NHL career (portions of three seasons) with Nashville, Classen played 90 games from 2000-2001 to 2002-2003, totaling 7 goals and 10 assists. After spending the season lost to the Great Lockout in Finland, he came back for one more year in the Preds' organization, but spent all of 2005-2006 with the Milwaukee Admirals.

Sergei Zholtok (2004)

Acquired by Nashville at the 2004 Trade Deadline from Minnesota, Zholtok played 11 games down the stretch as the Predators secured their first-ever playoff berth. He scored one goal in that six-game series loss to Detroit, before leaving that summer to go play in Europe.

Tragically, Zholtok collapsed and died a few months later, on November 3, 2004, at just 31 years of age.

Paul Kariya (2005-2007)

Kariya's signing as a free agent in 2005 caused critics around the NHL to sit up and pay attention to the Predators as a team to contend with. He hoped for a fresh start after a disastrous 2003-2004 campaign with Colorado, and responded with two of his finer seasons leading the way for Nashville. Across 2005-2006 and 2006-2007 Kariya never missed a game, and set marks for assists and total points which still stand as #1 and #2 in franchise history. He maintained that level of performance in the playoffs, as well, with two goals and seven assists in 9 post-season games for Nashville.

When Craig Leipold sold the team in the spring of 2007, however, Kariya wanted no part of the franchise instability, and he left the Preds as a free agent. He played three seasons for St. Louis before retiring due to lingering post-concussion symptoms.

Marcel Goc (2009-2011)

Idolized by the bowtie-wearing crowd, Goc came to Nashville as a guy who couldn't earn his way above a 4th-line role in San Jose. With the Predators, he did get more of a chance to display his talents, and set career highs in 2009-2010 with 12 goals and 18 assists. The question with Goc was always one of upside, however. His numbers would lead one to think that perhaps he had Top 6 potential, but that never quite seemed to pan out.

In the 2010-2011 season, when injuries wracked the depth chart at center, Goc's production dropped off the charts without David Legwand in the lineup ahead of him, and his campaign was cut short by a shoulder injury. Goc left as a free agent last summer for a lucrative contract with the Florida Panthers.

Poll

Who is the greatest #9 in Nashville Predators history?

• Greg Classen
• Marcel Goc
• Paul Kariya
• Darren Turcotte
• Sergei Zholtok

  478 votes | Results