Lightning / NHL News
John Russo bring experience to new role [NHL.com]
The Lightning’s new Director of Amateur Scouting is a lifelong hockey person who has spent his share, my share, your share, and your dog’s share of time on the road watching hockey. After spending the last four seasons focusing on the teams in the Western Conference, he’ll now be in charge of the whole shebang after taking over for Al Murray.
2023-24 NHL Prospect Pool: Tampa Bay Lightning [The Hockey News]
Gabe Fortier is the closest to hitting the NHL and is a prime example of the type of prospects the Bolts have in their pool per THN, middle-to-bottom-six forwards who likely won’t light up the scoreboard, but could be solid competitors.
Jonathan Toews stepping away for the 2023-24 NHL season [TSN Twitter]
The former Chicago captain released a statement thanking the fans and the team for the 16 seasons he spent in The Windy City. He isn’t going to suit up for anyone next season, but hasn’t ruled out a comeback after that.
Rick Jeanneret passes away at the age of 81 [Die By the Blade]
For 50 years every moment, either good or bad, for the Buffalo Sabres was narrated by the truly legendary Rick Jeanneret. Starting on the radio for the 1971-72 season and ending his career on TV for the 2021-22 season, the Hockey Hall of Famer literally saw it all (except for the Sabres winning a Stanley Cup). His final call was a Casey Mittelstadt overtime goal:
Mathieu Schneider, NHLPA part ways after 12 years [Daily Face Off]
It’s likely that new NHLPA executive director Marty Walsh is implementing his own team and Schneider, who was basically the second in command under the old regime, is out.
Mikael Renberg trade tree still paying dividends [The Hockey Writers]
Twenty-six years ago the Philadelphia Flyers traded Mikael Renberg and Karl Dykhuis in exchange for four number one picks (which were compensation for the Flyers offer-sheeting Chris Gratton). The effects of that deal still trickle through the NHL today.
