Shrapnel - 7/20/2011

There's so much for today I don't even know where to start. 

Wait, no, I do. First, a late "Happy Birthday!" to Fedor Tyutin!

As you're probably aware, but just to remind you, the Jackets will hold a press conference introducing Jeff Carter and James Wisniewski today, and they'll be following that with a conference call with Jackets' fans later this evening. Stay by the phone!

In wider NHL news, the biggest piece of news has to be Steven Stamkos getting a deal done in Tampa Bay. Sorry, all those who dreamed of offer sheets. A close second, however, would be the news that the New Jersey Devils have surprised just about everyone and hired former Panthers coach Peter DeBoer as their new head coach. Elliotte Friedman of HNIC takes a look at these stories (and others, including Columbus and "The Wiz") in his last 30 thoughts for the 2010-2011 season. 

Over at Jackets Report, Rob takes a look at how Jeff Carter is expected to fit into the top six, and also spent some time interviewing Todd Richards for Bluejackets.com

Another big discussion yesterday was Chris Osgood's decision to retire. As the hall of fame debate begins, Dan over at Crimespree Hockey makes a serious argument against. Oh, and his likely replacement is someone Jackets' fans are familiar with...

You may have seen TSN's Scott Cullen talking about the best even strength scorers in the NHL, and seen a couple of familiar names at #6 and #8. But he also put out a list of the "most productive" NHL fighters, and those results are pretty interesting, too.

Are the Dallas Stars currently losing a million dollars every week? Forbes believes they are, but the team denies it even as they continue to search for a new owner.

Like the rest of us, Red Light District wonders which Steve Mason we're going to get this season. Meanwhile, Michael Arace speculates on how the Jackets will fill the spot on the wing opened by Juice's injury.

On the eve of Salary Arbitration hearings opening up, Buffalo came to terms with Andrej Sekera, but they've opened up more cap issues as a result. Could be a possible trading partner as they try to shed salary. Of the hearings that will go forward, keep an eye out for guys like Lauri Korpikoski who could potentially be looking for new homes soon, as well.

Puck Daddy looked at the worst power plays last season, and if they improved in the offseason. Guess the poster children for the article. Just guess.

An NHL mediator was unable to resolve the dispute between the Kings and Oilers after Dean Lombardi traded Colin Fraser, whom he knew was injured and failed to disclose it. It appears to be heading to Gary Bettman's office - this has been a quiet story so far, but depending on the results, it could get really ugly, especially if the Oilers are fined draft picks.

DBJ has a new fashion accessory, and he's supporting youth hockey at the same time. Nice.

Looking for something to do next week? LTL suggests you check out the R-Bar's charity golf tournament on Monday.

Looking for something to do next month? We may be able to help with that.

Wondering what the big deal is? Check these out!