A Few Pucks Have Dropped

The pre-season officially kicked off tonight in Carolina, Edmonton and Phoenix. All 3 cities playing host to Washington, Calgary and Minnesota, respectively. It's getting exciting, counting down the days until the real games begin.

In the meantime, there's still quite a bit of player movement going on in the league. Will any of it be pool worthy? It's likely that some might.

The Flyers are having some injury problems before the puck drops on even their pre-season. There's still time for most of these guys to get better before the season starts, then again it won't be enough time for another. Both Peter Forsberg and Derian Hatcher both found themselves under doctor's care before camp opened, but both should be ready to go for opening night. Sami Kapanen has gone under the knife for a shoulder injury that should keep him out for the first 8 weeks of the season. So, in lieu of these injuries, the Flyers have signed on Brian Savage from the Unrestricted Free Agent market.

Forsberg, no change. Hatcher, no change. Kapanen down 20 points. Savage up 10 points.

Andrew Raycroft has finally signed his deal with the Bruins. He's in camp and ready to go. The Calder Trophy winner from the previous season has a big job on his shoulders, leading the Bruins to the playoffs and beyond. After the Bruins signed on Finnish Elite League standout goalie Tim Thomas to a contract, Raycroft will have more competition in the nets and hopefully give a big lift to the play in the nets. I would have a Bruins goalie come draft day and Raycroft should be the guy to do it.

Raycroft up 10 points.

Former 40-goal man, Scott Young signed on with the Blues this week as well, lifting himself from the Free Agent market. He re-joins the Blues, where he had his 40-goal season in 2000-'01. Now, I wouldn't say that he's still good for 40, but if he stays healthy, he could squeeze out 40 points this year. Young could automatically hit the first or second line in St. Louis, playing with the likes of Doug Weight or Petr Cajanek... it's not out of the question. Another quality winger should make a difference for the Blues.

Young up 5 points. Weight up 5 points. Lalime up 4 points (can't really get much for odd numbers for goalies).

19 days until the regular season... are you ready yet?