Reader BobPurkey34 offers some good insight on why Tulsa went 5-7 in 2009

I'd be willing to bet that there aren't too many Pitt fans out there that religiously follow the Tulsa Golden Hurricane. So at first glance at his tenure with the program, Todd Graham had three 10+ win seasons in four years and three bowl wins. But what happened in 2009?

The Golden Hurricane dropped to 5-7, Graham's first losing season as a head coach, and did not qualify for a bowl game. After two wildly successful years to begin his Tulsa career, what went south?

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Reader BobPurkey34 checks in with Pitt football coaching candidates

A few notes as we continue to play "Find the Next Pitt Head Coach", Part II, along with a couple burning questions.

First off, who's out of the search? Marvin Lewis (Cincinnati Bengals), Al Golden (Miami), Frank Cignetti (Rutgers), Dana Holgorsen (WVU) and almost surely Brady Hoke (Michigan).

So who is left as options?

• Mike Leach. The Dread Pirate was not hired by Maryland and remains on the market, but it seems unlikely that Pitt could match his financial demands. Plus, like Holgorsen, Leach would require a total transformation of the offense and while he would more than likely fill seats, there's almost a 0% chance Pedersen would interview another guy carrying baggage.
• Staying on the same spread offense path, why not K.C. Keeler? The current Delaware coach runs a very similar type offense to Leach and Holgorsen, would come far cheaper and without the baggage. He also has a record of success, although in the FCS and he's about to send a second quarterback to the NFL. Only downside here is that he's signed at Delaware until 2017.
• Todd Graham of Tulsa has guided some high-powered offenses in the past, has a reported interest and would also come far cheaper than Leach.
• Would Pedersen actually consider....Rich Rodriguez?!? After a less than successful three-year stint at UM, Rich Rod was rightly fired from his position following the biggest bowl loss in school history. However, the former WVU boss does have a proven record of success in the Big East and would be Pitt's way to combat the Holgorsen-led Mountaineers offense. Mark May even went so far as to endorse Rodriguez on ESPN College Game Day, saying that Pedersen should "pick up the phone right now, call Rodriguez and hire him within 24 hours" 
• Finally, the obvious and always present Tom Bradley, arguably the best choice that could be made. He's been recommended to Pedersen by two of the greatest names in Pennsylvania football, Joe Paterno and Dan Rooney, although unbelievably, still has not had an interview yet. Hopefully that changes soon enough.

Five names out there, and surely more will be considered as it's not just Pedersen conducting the process now. 

A few burning questions here to finish.

1. If you were Steve Pedersen, would you seriously consider Rich Rodriguez?

2. Would you rather have an offensive mind or defensive mind be the next head coach?

Reader BobPurkey34 outlines his reasons for hiring Marvin Lewis:

It's Black Monday in the NFL, which means one thing and one thing only for coaches on the hot seat. Will they have a job in 2011? Next week? Even tomorrow?

Cincinnati Bengals head coach Marvin Lewis is one of them.

After an abysmal season where the Bengals finished 4-12 in a year where many experts predicted them to at least make the playoffs, multiple reports have surfaced that he will not be returning to the position, as his contract is set to expire after the season. Even during his press conference following the Bengals 13-7 loss to Baltimore, Lewis joked about his status.

 I can't answer where things are for me. Officially today, I'm unemployed.

Which brings up the next point. Lewis should be the top choice for the Pitt job, and Steve Pedersen would instantly redeem himself if he is able to hire Lewis.

Not that it needs to be said, but Lewis has an extremely strong background in the Pittsburgh area, having grown up in Washington, Pa and coaching linebackers at Pitt from 90-91, then with the Steelers from 92-95. Despite having to put up with questionable characters year in and year out in Cincinnati, Lewis remains one of the classiest men in the NFL and would certainly bring a ton of credibility back to the Panthers football program.

Of the three things Pitt should be looking for in it's next coach, he brings immediate stability as a defensive mastermind - remember he was the DC of arguably the best defense in the modern era, the 2000-01 Ravens. He also brings instant credibility, as he has been coaching college/pros since 1981. There is no recruit out there today that wouldn't know the name Marvin Lewis. And most important, he brings proven success, as both a Super Bowl winner and a D I-AA Championship with Idaho State.

Now to be fair, it would take everything in Pedersen's power and then some to lure Lewis away from the NFL. He could have a DC position nearly anywhere in the league next season.

But, Lewis is not so different from the Wannstedt hiring. The Stache served as Dolphins head coach from 2000 to 2004, his last season finishing 4-12 like Lewis. He was then brought in with a great deal of knowledge of the western Pennsylvania area and having ties with Pitt as both a player and GA. Would Pedersen be able to bring in another NFL guy?

Time will tell, but Pitt won't do much better than Marvin Lewis.  

A quick show of hands, how many people here are actually going to the Alumni Game tomorrow morning? 

If so, where are your seats and also, do you know what the deal is with parking at the stadium? Since they only sold 10,000 tickets, it shouldn't be too bad and I doubt they charge more than $10-15 but I suppose you never know. 

Does anyone know what format the game will be? It can't be any more than 2 hours as the Pens practice is scheduled to begin at 11:30am, so they won't be doing full 20 minute periods. I'd guess something like 10 minute periods, no checking. But if the game itself is anything like the Pens scrimmage the other day, we should expect a goal-fest. 

Good news for those without a ticket as well, the Pens official site announced the game will be televised live online.

I'll be the loon in the Bob Errey jersey in 121, hoping to get in with my 3 ASS = 1 GOAL sign.

I saw a cool thread on BTSC (Steelers blog), and thought it would be a nice idea here. 

Seeing as how it is Christmas Eve, and sorry if that isn't entirely politically correct for those who may be of a different religion, it's a time to go back to our roots. Where is everyone here from, what do you plan on doing for the holidays, and more Penguins related, what is your first memory as a fan?

I know we have a very diverse fanbase here, so it will be very interesting to see.

Well, we can cross one name off the potential head coaches list. 

As reported by the Associated Press, Temple head coach Al Golden will accept the vacated position at Miami, replacing Randy Shannon and will not coach in the Canes bowl game against Notre Dame.

I know Golden's name has came up several times on Pitt's list of possible head coaches, as he was able to transform an 0-11 Temple team into winners, going to their first bowl game in 30 years a season ago and finishing 8-4 in 2010 including a multiple touchdown victory over UConn. But with Golden now off the list, does this now mean the Pitt job is Dana Holgorsen's for the taking?

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Just stopping by from Pensburgh, but I thought of a potential trade that could really help both the Penguins and the Sharks. 

Now first of all, on the East Coast, I don't get to see nearly enough of the Sharks as I would like. Most of the time, I'm forced to catch highlights or read things. Anyway, from my knowledge, and please correct me if I'm making things up, the Sharks should be looking to add a puck-moving defenseman at some point to assist in your Stanley Cup dreams. I believe we have your answer.

The Penguins are a team that has had a surplus of puck-moving defensemen over the past few seasons. Ray Shero is strangely obsessed with them. Even now, 3-4 of our defensemen could be considered mobile, puck-moving d-men. Ben Lovejoy has been a fairly nice fit at #6. Kris Letang has really taken the next step after signing a new contract last spring. Paul Martin just signed on for 5 years. Which brings me to Alex Goligoski.

Go-Go as we call him is your prototype mobile puck mover.

While he may be a bit undersized at 6-nothing, there's no question he has a lot of offensive upside and can make excellent passes up ice out of his own end. As a very fluid skater, he can also lug the puck himself, although he still needs to work out the kinks there. So what price? I think that's obvious.

The Penguins have been on an ongoing conquest to find a winger to play on a top line. Devin Setoguchi would be almost an ideal fit for the Crosby line. No offense meant to Pascal Dupuis - he's played mostly admirably this year - but he's just not the man for a top line in the NHL. 

Both players have a nearly identical cap hit - Setoguchi at 1.8 and Goligoski at 1.833, although Gogo is under contract for an additional year. Both players are not without flaws either. You're all aware of Setoguchi's offensive struggles this season. Gogo isn't physical at all and was just removed from the Pens' top power play unit. But to me, this move would be very beneficial to both teams, because if it is indeed a puck moving defenseman you're after, Goligoski is your answer. 

What do you say?

This came up last night in the game thread and was interested to see the results. 

We'll continue the 2010 Pensburgh Census of sorts with the age question, following up the gender poll from before. Simple enough, just pick the category that most accurately represents you. If you do not feel like revealing your age, don't vote in the poll. Savvy?

And I do apologize for not "throwing this up" after the game like somebody's casserole. 

Earlier, ESPN's Adam Schefter reported that the Oakland Raiders would be willing to trade any player on their roster in an effort to rebuild. This would include Pro Bowl cornerback Nnamdi Asomugha. 

http://espn.go.com/blog/afcwest/post/_/id/18877/trading-asomugha-could-make-sense

AFC West blogger Bill Williamson says that a deal could make sense "at the right price". Oakland, who does not have a 1st round draft pick this year after spending it to get Richard Seymour from New England, would surely be looking for one in return for Asomugha. Would it make sense for the Steelers to seriously pursue him? The defense still lacks a true "shut down" corner and the position is still one of the weaker spots on the roster. 

Asamugha's contract runs through the 2011 season and if the Steelers are truly interested in improving the secondary, there would be no better way to do so than adding the (in my opinion) best cornerback in the league. Parting with a 1st round pick is not desirable, but if the Steelers end up picking where they want, it would be a very low pick while the quality of cornerbacks in each draft has gone down each year. With probably only 3 excellent CB prospects in the draft (Patrick Peterson, Janorice Jenkins and Amukamara), the Steelers wouldn't be in a position to draft any. 

Would you want to see the Steelers pursue Asomugha, and if so, what would you be willing to part with? Or would you rather see them simply hold on to the draft pick(s)?

Nearly a year ago, October 8 to be exact, the Penguins and Flyers faced off at the Wachovia Center (now Wells-Fargo Center, damned naming rights) in what was a huge early season showdown for the Pens. After struggling with both New York teams, the Penguins had just been shut out by the Phoenix Coyotes on home ice the night before. 

Would they come out in Philly just as flat?

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Has anyone heard anything about the Penguins training camp this year? 

I know it's generally been held at the Mellon Arena for the past few years and at some point in early September. I didn't get a chance to go down last time but I normally do and was wondering what the scoop was for this year? The Mellon is obviously out, as there's no more ice, but would they hold it at the Consol? 

I wouldn't think they'd have it entirely at Southpointe, because it is too small and they have made a nice fan experience out of it & attendance has been good when they did hold it at the Igloo. Or maybe they would go back to that?

In the spirit of hockey season, I leave with this press release prior to the 2005-06 camp -

Hockey-starved fans will see plenty of pucks on the menu this week at Mellon Arena. The Pittsburgh Penguins begin training camp Tuesday and fans, coaches and players alike are eager to experience NHL action return to the ice.

The Penguins feature a revamped lineup that features free-agent additions Mark Recchi, Sergei Gonchar, John LeClair, Ziggy Palffy, Steve Poapst, Andre Roy, Ryan VandenBussche and Lyle Odelein as well as goalie Jocelyn Thibault, who was acquired in a trade, and first-overall draft pick Sidney Crosby.  

Let's Go Pens!

Apologies for stealing your title, GoPens!...or maybe it's more like borrowing without permission? Your analysis of the point system had me thinking a similar, yet different way. Instead of players, what if the NHL used a different point system for teams?

I think everyone would probably agree that the point system is somewhat flawed. In no other sport do you get points for losing while wins in the NHL simply aren't really what they should be. Much has been made about possibly tweaking and/or modifying the current one. Others say that the scoring system is fine where it is.

But what if the NHL was to use an Olympic/KHL point system - three points for a regulation win, two points for a win in overtime or a shootout, normal one point for OT/SO loss and of course, no points for a loss in regulation. If there's one thing this system accomplishes, it's inflating the number of points each year to the point where nearly every team in the league reaches triple digits.

Although it would inflate point values, it may also help the league. Regulation wins where a team proves over the course of 60 minutes that it deserves to win, should be rewarded and 3 PTS would do nicely. For teams that go to overtime or a shootout, it's clear that on that particular night, the teams are evenly matched and it'd be appropriate the difference is only one - like it is now. Obviously, losing in regulation shouldn't be worth anything.

Let's see an example.

Last year, the Atlantic Division and Eastern Conference playoff race came down to the final day. Actually, the final shot. If the NHL used an Olympic point system, would that be any different?

GP WR WO LO LR PTS*

1New Jersey 82 40 7 8 27 143

2Pittsburgh 82 33 14 7 28 134

3Philadelphia 82 35 6 6 35 123

4NY Rangers 82 34 4 11 33 121

5NY Islanders 82 20 14 11 37 99

*Updated points

As you can see, the Division standings would look absolutely no different. The Devils still win the Atlantic, the Penguins still finish 2nd and the Flyers still prevail over the Rangers by the smallest of margins. What good is that? Instead, let's take a look at what the updated conference standings would look like.

1. *Washington - 164 points
2. *New Jersey - 143 points
3. *Buffalo - 135 points
4. Pittsburgh - 134 points
5. Ottawa - 128 points
6. Philadelphia - 123 points
7. NY Rangers - 121 points
8. Boston - 116 points

It's safe to say, that looks a bit different. The division winners all remain the same and the Penguins still meet the Senators, but Montreal would have missed the playoffs, the Rangers would be in and facing the Devils, and Boston would have the honor of playing the spoiling 8th seed. 

This is simple to explain however. The Rangers won ten more games in regulation (34-24) than the Canadiens while Montreal led the Eastern Conference in wins needing overtime or a shootout to decide (with 15). 

To say the absolute least, this would have significantly impacted the playoffs last year. But would it have been for the better? Is it a good idea to award more points for a regulation win over an overtime/shootout win?

If someone was to put together a team of the best players in the Atlantic Division, what might it look like? Here's my thoughts. This does not include Kovalchuk (Devils) or Gagne (Flyers), as both have uncertain futures with the division, although both would certainly be here if they stayed. Half of the choices are made with projected production in the 2010-11 season. 

SCORING CENTER - Options: Sidney Crosby, Jeff Carter, Mike Richards, John Tavares

Tavares is a very talented young player. Richards has proven his worth not only as a standout offensive player (career high 31 goals in 2009-10) but also as an elite shorthanded threat. Carter possesses one of the most lethal wrist shots in the game. But there are no ifs, ands or buts about it. Crosby is the best center in the division, in the conference and on the planet. You'd take him in the blink of an eye for the All-NHL team. Choice: Crosby

SCORING WINGER - Options: Zach Parise, Marian Gaborik, Evgeni Malkin, Danny Briere, Kyle Okposo

Okposo has grown tremendously in each of his two full seasons in the NHL, and should certainly continue that trend alongside Tavares. He plays a strong physical game and barring catastrophe, will break the 20 goal plateau in 2010-11. But he isn't close to the top scoring winger. Briere had a superb playoffs last year, leading the league with 30 although only posting 52 in the regular season. Gaborik found a way to stay healthy with the Rangers and established himself as their only scoring threat, matching a career high in goals (42) and setting a career high in points (86). But he's far too one dimensional as a player.

So it's down to Malkin and Parise. Parise has been Mr. Reliable for the Devils, playing in at least 81 games every year in his Devils career. He also put up 94 points two years ago. Malkin on the other hand, won the Art Ross that same season with 113 points, but should be making the transition to wing and could need some adjustment. Choice: Parise

CHECKING CENTER - Options: Travis Zajac, Jordan Staal, Brandon Dubinsky, Chris Drury

Zajac posted career numbers in 2009-10 with 25 goals playing on the "ZZ Pops" Line with Parise and Langenbrunner. He also recorded a nifty 53% on faceoffs with 51 takeaways, leading the defensive-minded Devils in both categories. Dubinsky also set career highs with 20 goals while dramatically cutting the time he spent in the penalty box.  Staal further established his title of the best 3rd center in the league, posting an impressive +19 rating. Drury would throw himself in front of a maglev train if it prevented a shot getting through. But it comes down to a very simple five letter word, as they are all high quality defensive centers - S-e-l-k-e. Choice: J. Staal

CHECKING WINGER - Options: Ryan Callahan, Chris Kunitz, Jamie Langenbrunner

Psycho Kunitz is a quality player who acts as the heat-seaking missile for Crosby. Now 35, Langenbrunner has proven he can still play at a very high level while still sticking to his solid two-way game. He was named captain of the USA team that won Silver at the Olympics and again managed to put up 61 points. But tough as nails, Callahan is the obvious choice. He'll do absolutely anything from delivering bone-crunching hits to blocking shots or scoring big goals. Choice: Callahan

OFFENSIVE DEFENSEMAN - Options: Andy Greene, Mark Streit, Michael Del Zotto, Chris Pronger, Kimmo Timonen, Kris Letang

The 27-year-old Greene had a major breakout season last year, but nobody knows if he can come anywhere near 37 points again. Del Zotto, in his first NHL season matched Greene with 37 points, but also scored 9 goals. But his defense was awful, as you could expect from a teenager in the NHL. Timonen and Letang both played secondary roles behind other defensemen on the offensive totem pole. Which leaves Streit and Pronger. Both have put up double digit goal totals in each of the past 4 seasons and both are now in their mid-30s, however, one man was helped significantly by his team's excellent power play, the other was not. Choice: Streit

DEFENSIVE DEFENSEMAN - Options: Anton Volchenkov, Colin White, Marc Staal, Braydon Coburn, Zbynek Michalek, Brooks Orpik

White is a huge body who improves the closer he gets to Brodeur. Staal is the opposite, he uses his size and reach to take opponents one-on-one, then take the puck the other way. Volchenkov and Michalek are both world-class shot blockers and possibly two of the Top 5 in the league. Coburn and Orpik diversify their game a little more and not only will block shots decently well, but are also proficient at laying hits. Choice: White

GOALTENDER - Options: Martin Brodeur, Henrik Lundqvist, Marc-Andre Fleury

MAF had a Stanley Cup ring at 24 years old. He was also named to the Canadian Olympic team and posted 37 wins on the season. But still, it's very much a two-horse race, between the other two men. The old guard, put up huge numbers leading the Devils to a Division title. Lundqvist however, despite not leading the Rangers to the playoffs in 2010, was the sole reason why the Rangers were even in contention at the end of the year. On the team that allowed the most shots in the entire Eastern Conference, he still managed to put up a 2.38 GAA. Choice: Lundqvist

COACH - Options: John Tortorella, Peter Laviolette, Dan Bylsma

This All-Star team of sorts needs a coach as well. It just so happens that three of the better ones in the league call the Atlantic Division home. All three have won the Stanley Cup. All three coaches have taken their respective current clubs into the playoffs, and each have done it their own way. Tortorella, the fiery, loud-mouthed motivator who believes shouting will solve any problem, took over as Rangers boss in the in early 2009. Laviolette is the shortest-tenured coach of the three but has already taken the Flyers to the Stanley Cup final after replacing John Stevens mid-season. Bylsma, the tactician who simply loves hockey, is the only one to have won a Cup with his current team - however, he also has the least amount of coaching experience. Choice: Laviolette

So if we're actually setting this team up, the lines could look like...

FORWARDS

Parise - Crosby - Gaborik

Carter - Richards - Malkin

Kunitz - Staal - Callahan

Zajac - Dubinsky - Okposo 

DEFENSE

Pronger - Streit

Volchenkov - Letang

White - Orpik

Backup Skaters: Briere, Michalek

GOALIE

Lundqvist

Backup Goalie: Brodeur

As everyone is aware, the Penguins are set to kick off their annual prospect Development Camp tomorrow at Southpointe, with mostly every one of the big names on the roster - Tangradi, Simon Despres and 2010 1st round pick Beau Bennett. 

But who are the ones to keep an eye on? Here's my ridiculously unofficial rankings of prospects heading into the 2010 season.

1. D Simon Despres, played 2009-10 season with the St. John Seadogs (QMJHL), 6'4" 205,19 years old

63 GP, 9 G, 38 A, +26, 87 PIM; 19 points in 21 playoff games

Has an outside chance of making the Penguins roster as a 7th defenseman, but it's most likely that he'll play 2010 in the Q once again. Showed some great offensive poise with St. John, although his NHL future probably projects more to be a versatile defender. I'd like to think he makes his debut at some point in 2011, either on the opening day roster or as an injury call-up.

2. LW Eric Tangradi, played 2009-10 season with Wilkes-Barre/Scranton (AHL), 6'4" 221, 21 years old

65 GP, 17 G, 22 A, -1, 31 PIM; 8 power play goals

A popular favorite to break camp with the Penguins, he has the frame and skill set of a prototype NHL power forward. Played one game with the Penguins, recording 3 shots against the Islanders. There is no doubt he's a very talented hockey player (you don't draw Kevin Stevens comparisons for nothing), but is he ready enough to take a role on a line with Crosby or Malkin?

3. C Dustin Jeffrey, played 2009-10 season with Wilkes-Barre/Scranton (AHL), 6'2" 205, 22 years old

77 GP, 24 G, 47 A, +16, 16 PIM; 236 shots on net

Another possibility to make the Penguins roster out of training camp, he too played in one NHL game last season. He will be appearing in his 4th Developmental camp. He plays with grit, energy and has no problem battling along the boards although he's not a natural scorer. A primary candidate for the 3rd center job, assuming Staal makes the jump to center Malkin's line.

4. D Carl Sneep, played 2009-10 season with Boston College (NCAA), 6'4" 212, 22 years old

42 GP, 11 G, 17 A, 26 PIM

A big-body defenseman that can move well, he's also added some bulk in his time at BC. Not really a ton of offensive prowess but does have a nice shot and will most likely play in Wilkes-Barre this coming season. It's probably not entirely out of the question that he could be called up at some point in 2010.

5. D Brian Strait, played 2009-10 season with Wilkes-Barre/Scranton (AHL), 6'1" 200, 22 years old

77 GP, 2 G, 12 A, +22, 73 PIM

A jack of all trades on the blue line but a master of none, Strait is another fundamentally sound college defender does all the little things right. May not have any one outstanding talent but could make for a good option as the 7th defenseman. 

6. D Robert Bortuzzo, played 2009-10 season with Wilkes-Barre/Scranton (AHL), 6'3" 212, 21 years old

75 GP, 2 G, 10 A, +13, 109 PIM

A tall defender who was one of three WBS defensemen who put up 100+ PIM in the 09-10 season, he's not an offensive minded guy at all. Plays a shut down game with some physical authority at times as he's added close to 20 pounds since being drafted in 2007. An intriguing player because he's yet another young Penguin defenseman who shoots right-handed, he should push for a starting job alongside Goligoski, as he is bigger and more defensively inclined than Lovejoy, but less refined.

7. RW Beau Bennett, played 2009-10 season with Penticton (BCHL), 6'1" 175, 18 years old

56 GP, 41 G, 79 A, 120 PTS, 20 PIM; 25 power play goals

No doubt has excellent scoring pedigree, but remains very inexperienced and probably won't get a taste of professional hockey for another 3 years. Committed to the University of Denver, the 18 year old may just learn more in a week of prospect camp than he does in the entire year in college. 

8. LW Ben Hanowski, played 2009-10 season with St. Cloud State (NCAA), 6'2" 200, 19 years old

43 GP, 9 G, 10 A, 19 PIM

Has drawn comparisons with Sabres winger Thomas Vanek since his high school days. A natural scorer who can shoot the puck from anywhere and is more than willing to go to any high scoring area. Also has an underrated passing ability. Although he won't be in the Penguins organization this coming season, he should continue his development in college and take another step forward as a scorer.

9. GK Alexander Pechurskiy, played 2009-10 season with Tri-City (WHL), 6'0" 190, 20 years old

13-10, 2.61 GAA, 0.912 SV%; 4 shutouts

Although he became the first Russian to play in net for the Penguins, he certainly isn't the first Penguin from Magnitogorsk. Nobody will forget the debut he made against the Canucks on an amateur tryout, and was named 3rd star of the game. One of the few goaltenders in hockey that may be able to match MAF's athleticism, he plays more a hybrid style than butterfly. Is still very much a work in progress and was not invited to the prospect camp. 

10. D Philip Samuelsson, played 2009-10 season with Boston College (NCAA), 6'3" 200, 19 years old

42 GP, 1 G, 13 A, 36 PIM

Already a household name in Pittsburgh thanks to Ulf, he played alongside Sneep at BC. Still a very raw defender, he's good in the defensive zone with his stick and also possesses a powerful shot from the point.

Can't wait for hockey season to begin! Let's Go Pens 

A little late here, but there's two Pirate prospects taking part tonight (Gorkys Hernandez & Bryan Morris). Also worth to note some potential prospects who could be trade returns for later this summer. 

Thoughts?

A few guys so far who have caught an eye have been World catcher Willin Rosario (Rockies), 1B Yonder Alonso (Reds) SS Ozzie Martinez (Marlins), and USA 1B Logan Morrison (also Marlins).  Watching Rosario pick off several very dangerous baserunners really illustrates what we're missing with Doumit behind the plate. I wanted to see Martinez because if the Marlins are to be potential trade partners, I'd like to think he'd be a quality return. 

Much conversation has been made lately about retired numbers in the NHL and the team's "Ring of Honor". It's common knowledge to most, but the Penguins have only retired two numbers in their history - 66 & 21. Both extremely deserving of the honor and in no way should that be any different. 

But what about Jaromir Jagr? Should the Penguins retire his number following his retirement from professional hockey?

Why #68 SHOULD be retired

1. He is one of the best forwards to ever play the game, not just in a Penguin uniform but in any uniform. 

2. He is 9th on the all-time scoring list in NHL history, with over 1000 of those points coming in the black and gold.

3. He won two Stanley Cups, providing a significant role in the winning of the second one.

4. He won five Art Ross Trophies as a Penguin.

5. He was a Hart Trophy finalist five times, also winning the award in 1999.

6. He played a huge part in popularizing hockey in Pittsburgh during the 1990s and helped the team to the playoffs in every year up until 2001, serving as team captain in 3 of those years.

Why #68 SHOULD NOT be retired

1. Retired numbers should be reserved for the players who really made a difference to the team and the community.

2. Only a little over half of his professional career has been played in Pittsburgh, the rest coming with Washington/New York/Omsk.

3. Retired numbers should go to the once in a generation player, and Jagr played second fiddle to Lemieux for the vast majority of his Penguin career.

4. His personality, requesting trades toward the end of his career are not the traits a fan wants to see hanging from the Consol Energy Center's ceiling every night.

Poll question is very simple. A small explanation of your choice would be superb as well. Yes or no to Jags?

Now that most of the big name free agent defensemen are off the board, who might have the best defense in the Eastern Conference? These are my projected Top 6 for each team, listed in no particular order. As of July 7, italics indicates a new signing.

Atlanta - Bogosian, Enstrom, Oduya, Hainsey, Sopel, Valabik/Schubert (UFA). One of the least exciting groups here, there's nothing outstanding but it could end up being an underrated unit. Bogosian has a hell of a shot but ultimately Atlanta has overpaid quite a few guys for the defensive returns, and it may even be a worse unit in 2010 than the one that gave up 256 goals last year.

Boston - Chara, Seidenberg, Ference, Boychuk, Hunwick, Stuart (RFA). You don't want to cross blades with Chara and Seidenburg tries to block everything in sight. But outside Chara, it lacks a lot of punch and could likely hold the Bruins back from being a good team.

Buffalo - Myers, Rivet, Leopold, Montador, Sekera, Butler. Losing Tallinder won't help but it's virtually the same solid yet still underrated defense from a year ago. Perhaps not as air-tight, Leopold adds a little offensive talent and surely Lindy will want to see Mr. Calder Myers to take his game to another level.

Carolina - Pitkanen, Gleason, Corvo, Babchuk, McBain, Pothier (UFA). The Hurricanes seem to follow a peculiar trend - make it to the Conference Finals, then finish in last place. Rinse and repeat. So theoretically, the Canes will be back in 2010, but they'll need the defense to get them there. It may be one of the best offensive groups in the league, with Corvo back, Babchuk back and McBain most likely taking a full-time role.

Florida - McCabe, Wideman, Kulikov, Allen, Paetsch, ???. Not a good unit a year ago and could be exponentially worse in 2010. Hard to believe they used to have Bouwmeester, Ballard and Seidenberg. 

Montreal - Markov, Spacek, Hamrlik, Subban, Gill, Georges. It is what it is. But it will be interesting to see if Georges, Gill and Subban can take their excellent playoff form into the regular season. If so, prepare to rip your hair out on a nightly basis trying to crack this nutshell of a defense.

New Jersey - Volchenkov, Tallinder, White, Greene, Salvador, Salmela/Fraser (RFA). Neutral zone trap. We've seen it a million and one times before. Now perhaps back and better than ever with the A-Train and Tallinder - are you sure Marty isn't the new GM in Jersey?

Islanders - Streit, Witt, Eaton, Jurcina, Gervais, Hillen/MacDonald. Streit is a very solid defenseman while Witt is tougher than titanium. But it should be a joy watching this defense try to figure things out. 

Rangers - Redden, Rozsival, Del Zotto, Gilroy, M.Staal (RFA), Girardi (RFA). Ridiculously overrated, insanely overrated, overrated as hell, and once again predictably overrated. The group is barely proficient offensively and beyond dismal defensively. Poor Henrik is in for another lonely season in net again, trying to win games by himself. 

Ottawa - Gonchar, Kuba, Phillips, Karlsson, Lee/Sutton (UFA), Carkner. Could possibly have the perfect blend of offense and defense. Should score quite a few more goals with Gonchar in the lineup and Karlsson having another year under his belt. Will be the most physically intimidating defense if Sutton resigns.

Philadelphia - Pronger, Timonen, Carle, Coburn, Meszaros, Bartulis. On paper, the deepest defense in the NHL and should be the strong point of this Flyers lineup. But the question has to emerge, can Timonen and Pronger still remain as effective as they've been in the past now that both will turn 36 during the season?

Penguins - Martin, Michalek, Letang, Orpik, Goligoski, Lovejoy

Tampa - Kubina, Hedman, Ohlund, Walker, Clark, Lundin/Lashoff. Hedman should take another step forward in 2010 but will anyone else? 

Toronto - Kaberle, Phaneuf, Komisarek, Schenn, Beauchemin, Finger. If Toronto is going to get back to the playoffs, this is the first reason why. Assuming Kaberle stays, they have as good of a Top 5 as anywhere in the East.

Washington - Green, Schultz (RFA), Poti, Alzner, Carlson, Erskine/Sloan. What more to say, that hasn't already been said? Offensive first as usual in Washington, but can the new kids play defense well enough to offset the inevitable mistakes? We'll see.

My Top 5 (no order again, and not just on goals allowed alone)

- New Jersey

- Montreal

- Philadelphia

- Penguins

- Toronto

Obviously this could change before the beginning of the season, depending on potential trades or free agent acquisitions. Penguins will not be part of the poll, for understandable reasons. Who are your choices for best defense in the East?

The Pirates will be sellers at the trade deadline, we already know this. But who is gone? I think it's safe to assume that none of the kids will be trade bait, so we'll rule them out immediately. Let's take a look.

1. Ryan Doumit - Probably the most likely to be gone as he seems to have already run out his welcome with the Pirates. His defense is awful, his effort has been poor and chances are, some contending team in need of an extra bat will be more than interested in his services - especially an AL team that could use him as a DH.

Possibility of a Trade: 85-90%.

Potential Buyers: Yankees, Red Sox, Mets, Phillies, White Sox, Tigers, Padres...

2. Octavio Dotel - Should be without much question, the most productive player the Pirates will trade later this year. After a rough start, he's rebounded well and proved his worth as a closer. But with Evan Meek waiting right there to inherit the job, this shouldn't be a difficult decision for NH either. It would be nearly miraculous if he was still with the team after the trade deadline.

Possibility of a Trade: 90-99%

Potential Buyers: Marlins, Phillies, Cardinals, Red Sox

3. Zach Duke - Nobody needs to be told twice that Duke hasn't had anywhere near his best season. He's been getting hit hard all season long and doesn't seem to have any long term place on the team, as his contract expires after this season. But the question is, will anybody want him? The potential list of candidates is fairly slim - the team needs to have a slot open at the No. 5 starter, a need for a lefty, and needs to be an NL team as someone like Duke would get hammered weekly in the DH-friendly AL.

Possibility of a Trade: 45-75%

Potential Buyers: Dodgers, Braves, Mets

4. Ryan Church - JR has apparently been trying to build up his trade value by playing him - despite his scattered decent performances. But let's put it this way, if NH found a way to trade Eric Hinske last season when he wasn't playing a whole lot either and still get a halfway decent return, he can do the same with Church. Inevitably, there will be a team that suffers an injury or finds themselves in need of a 4th outfielder for a playoff push. 

Possibility of a Trade: 75-89%

Potential Buyers: ???

5. Paul Maholm - The Pirates best trade asset who would certainly command the most in return, his numbers would actually be quite sparking if he didn't have rotten luck - the bullpen has blown a number of games where he's left with a lead. There's no question the value he possesses, the only question is if the Pirates want to part with him or can get an appropriate haul. 

Possibility of a Trade: 20-40%

Potential Buyers: Any team needing a quality left-handed pitcher or end of the rotation man

Anyone else?

Bottom line, does anybody have one or know where a good scouting report of his pitches would be?

When he was named to the All-Star team yesterday, I checked his Wikipedia page and was appalled how little detail there was. Incredibly bare-boned and said almost nothing worthwhile about what kind of pitcher Meek is. So I decided to expand on it myself - after all, an All-Star caliber player deserves an All-Star caliber article, right? People around the nation will be looking for an easy way to find out who Evan Meek actually is and what he'll bring to the team.

I know mostly everyone here knows what he's capable of doing and what kind of pitches he possesses, but you need to cite sources in print and I don't think Bucs Dugout would classify as a reliable source. Instead, after piecing together a few different ones, the report is still a work in progress.

If anyone is willing to help, that would be excellent.