Let's face it, it was only a matter of time before Evgeni Malkin signed on with the Penguins. Thanks to the loophole in Russia, that you can give two weeks notice, despite being on a long-term contract, to leave... it's sooner rather than later and I'm sure there are quite a few gamblers that want to see Malkin on their pool team this fall. For good reason, too...The Hockey News figures that Malkin will tally in the high 80's, which would make him in a deep draft, a first-rounder. Malkin is seen as still an unknown talent to the NHL, much like Ovechkin & Crosby last season, Malkin will have free range, especially since Crosby will be gathering a lot of focus from other teams first.
Crosby & Malkin will more than likely see a bit of powerplay time together as well... so you may think that either/or will be well suited to take the lead in your pool team.
The Flames finally added some Russian talent to their line-up as well yesterday. Andrei Taratukhin, a 2001 draft pick, was added to the Flames roster going into training camp. Taratukhin was quite the talent with Russia in the Kovalchuk days of the World Juniors, sharing a line with the dynamic forward. It's been years since I have seen much of him, but the memories of those trying years for Canada because of these guys are enough to spur some optimism for a positive season.With the likes of Tanguay, Langkow, Yelle & Lombardi already listed in some places as the top 4 centres, the rumours that Tanguay will move to the wing for Iginla seem a little more plausible if Taratukhin fills another spot at centre. If Taratukhin is as much of an offensive threat as he could be, he might be one to move to the wing to play with Langkow and Amonte.
If he makes the squad this season, look for 50 points.
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