I remember when the Philadelphia Flyers traded for Daymond Langkow. It feels like forever ago, but I do remember it. I remember that there was a quote in the newspapers here from Wayne Gretzky describing Langkow as one of "the best young players he had ever seen." I spent some time looking for that quote, but I can't find it. If any of you remember it, let me know.

When Wayne took over as an owner in Phoenix, Langkow became a Yote and started the Gretzky Era off with a hattrick.

In Philly, Langkow was always one of my favorite guys to watch. He did EVERYTHING well, nothing particularly great, but would show flashes of another level. He was a solid #2 center who could kill penalties and make some highly skilled plays. And he could always step up to the #1 role when needed. He is the kind of player we Philly people like. Quiet, modest, hard working and dependable.

I was pretty ticked off when Langkow was moved. If you remember he was traded from Philly to Phoenix for a draft pick after the Flyers got permission to talk early to JR.

In Calgary he has become a legit #1 center. (yes Vets, I admit it now, for all to see)

In fact, he may be the #1 center come July 1, in a UFA field really lacking in "Star Power" up the middle. And maybe that's the reason we have hardly heard a peep out of Calgary in regard to extending DL. Maybe he realizes that he is the guy and that this summer he could find a team to back up the truck.

But will someone back-up the truck?

The biggest question mark will obviously be, "How much have Langkow's stats been padded due to his linemate Jarome?"

There is very little doubt that Iginla will make anyone better, but when a guy gets up around 80-90 points he needs to be looked at on his own merit. Guys playing with Ovechkin and Crosby aren't "point-a-game" players right now.

It is widely known that Daymond LOVES Calgary and playing for the Flames, so the possibility of him re-signing can't be ruled out right until July 1.

Who else will be interested?

Edmonton, St. Louis, Columbus, NY Rangers, NY Islanders and Vancouver are all possibilities, but not where I predict he will land.

How Much Will He Command?

Talking to an industry guy today, the comparison of Patrick Marleau was brought up. That makes a lot of sense to me. However, Marleau is about to get over 6 per for the next two years. Is Langkow over 6 per? (Is Marleau for that matter?) I guess supply and demand economics could kick in an Daymond could get over 6.

And next the question will that kind of contract put crazy pressure on him to be that true #1 in a place where he has no Iginla? We have seen countless examples of players signing for too much money and putting too much pressure on themselves.

Would Daymond be adversely affected by this?

"I don't think he would *bleeping* care," a friend of Daymond joked with me adding, "He's a great guy, but really not affected by stuff like many players are."

My Prediction: A return engagement in Phoenix with Gretzky where he could play with some great young talent and lend needed leadership to a slowly creeping powerhouse that could emerge in Phoenix over the next three years. (btw, another bold prediction...The Coyotes will be in a Cup final within 3-5 years. Guaranteed. Were they in the East, they would be in the playoffs this year.)

FIELD OF DREAMS TOMORROW


We will be announcing the final 64 for our blogger contest tomorrow...what a great time I have had reading these entries! Over 300 willing participants. REALLY hard to whittle it down!

HOCKEY BUZZCAST RETURNS TODAY!

Julie and I will be doing the show LIVE from the Wachovia Center at 4pm today...


JULIE LOVES HOCKEY VIDEO PODCAST COMING SOON

THE HOCKEYBUZZ VIRTUAL FINAL STANDINGS for March 17

The Eastern Conference Final Standings


1. New Jersey 110
2. Montreal 107
3. Carolina 99
4. Pittsburgh 107
5. Ottawa 103
6. Boston 91
7. NY Rangers 91 (on wins)
8. Washington 91

10. Florida 88
10. Philadelphia 86
11. Buffalo 85
12. Toronto 76
13. Atlanta 74
14. NY Islanders 72
15. Tampa 68

The Western Conference Final Standings


1. Detroit 118
2. San Jose 113
3. Calgary 102
4. Anaheim 102
5. Minnesota 102
6. Dallas 99
7. Vancouver 97
8. Nashville 94 (on wins)

9.Colorado 94
10. Columbus 83
11. Phoenix 82
12. Chicago 82
13. Edmonton 79
14. St. Louis 69
15. Los Angeles 62

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