NHL

Jim Kelley says: “And to think the Wild fans were talking about getting Olli Jokinen. Really, what else could the Islanders do? Too many suspensions and you're a marked man. Minnesota represents a 32nd chance for the likable but troubled Simon, but his next major suspension is his ticket out of hockey.”

Jim Kelley says: “Intent on cornering the market on all goalies with the initials J.S., the Ducks pick up Aubin but it's a nothing deal and has minor league assignment written all over it unless starter J.S. Gigure gets injured in the playoffs.”

Jim Kelley says: “Another depth move for the Ducks. Nothing lost, but a little help on the blueline should injuries strike.”

Jim Kelley says: “The Blues are decent on defence and had no room for a player who showed more hurts then promise. A history of injuries made this deal happen. New York isn't so fortunate, they were willing to take a chance that when healthy, Backman can help power the attack from the backend.”

Jim Kelley says: “We like Brad Stuart, we like the Detroit Red Wings, we just don't understand that if you think you have to get past the Ducks to get to the Stanley Cup final why you go this way. Stuart is a great skater and puck handler, but he's not tough and he's not famous for making plays under pressure. L.A.'s rebuilding continues minus a salary of some $3.5 million.”

Jim Kelley says: “Kilger might want to join the list of players wanting to blame Mats Sundin for being shipped out of Toronto, but Draft Schmatz is now a thing of the past in Toronto. Ironic that it's Cliff Fletcher accumulating the picks. Kilger is a serviceable player, but the Leafs are losers and no one without a no-trade clause was safe.”

Jim Kelley says: “The fear mongers will argue that Sidney Crosby isn't going to be ready for the playoffs. Don't believe it. The Penguins are going for the Cup right now and GM Ray Shero isn't going to wait. Contract issues are in play come the off-season, but that's a story for another time.”

Jim Kelley says: “A decent pickup in terms of picks for the Leafs, but Pittsburgh is the real winner here. Gill will be a playoff plus for a team that lacks size and real muscle on the back end. Jaromir Jagr beware.”

Jim Kelley says: “First Foote for a conditional first-round draft pick, now Fedorov. The Blue Jackets have given up on the playoffs and are cashing out their expensive chips. Two soon to be UFAs gone. Is Michael Peca next?”

Jim Kelley says: “Tough trade to figure, both Salei and Skrastins are the same age and play the same game, though the view from here is that Salei is a little meaner. Both are rugged defenders, but in Florida cheaper is better and Skrastins costs less. Follow the money.”

Jim Kelley says: “Huet is a great pickup for Washington, or is he? He hasn't been big in the clutch, but veteran Kolzig is getting older. Montreal needs more than Carey Price though, so for all the world this deal doesn't make sense unless there's another goalie coming to Montreal.”

Jim Kelley says: "The Stars get the best centre on trade deadline day though they will be paying $7.8 million per season for years to come. The Lightning get room to manage their cap issues, but the key acquisition is Mike Smith who is now Tampa's No. 1 netminder, something they've need for three seasons."

Jim Kelley says: “Campbell was gone the moment he refused to counter the Sabres limited offer, an offer designed not to be accepted. The Sharks get a 28-year-old puck-moving defenceman just coming into his own. The Sabres get a body to appease the remaining players in the room and a draft pick to sell hope to the fans.”

Jim Kelley says: “When your no-trade guys won't go, you move what you can. Belak gives toughness to a team that needs it. The pick is nothing, but it does tell the Leafs they will not be an October-to June team no matter what Mats wants.”

Jim Kelley says: “The Blues get a younger Bryce Salvador in 23-year-old Janssen. The Devils get the same toughness with a veteran who can play a little bit. Advantage Devils now, Blues down the road.”

Jim Kelley says:"Sold as a financial housekeeping move by Tampa, but this goes back to Prospal bad-mouthing coach John Tortorella in public. Management just fired back."