1 Day, 7 Hours to Trade Deadline

So before all of the craziness begins of trade deadline day... A little look at the 19 games ahead...

The bolts have almost finished their last game against the Western Conference, they just have St. Louis left on Friday.

I'm looking forward to the game against the Pens tomorrow night. The last time they met the game was nuts. This is the first game this year that the Lightning host the Pens in Tampa. This game means a lot to the Pens, they are currently in the 8th playoff spot ahead of Buffalo and Carolina by only one point. I think we should also see Crosby back in the lineup.

The last time these two teams met, the Lightning blew a 3 goal lead going into the 3rd period, and yes I know blowing a lead is nothing new this season, but the game ended up in overtime with Malkin ending it. That was a hard loss to take because they played so well in the 1st and 2nd. This should be a good rematch.

Thoughts on the Trade Deadline:
There are 3 guys that I just don't see making it through to the Blues game
1. Gary Roberts
Being a UFA at the end of the season, he could be worth a draft pick or young player for his services. I'm not hoping for more since he is 42, but Calgary is rumored to have some interest with his return to the Flames.
2. Mark Recchi
Another in the over 40 club, also another UFA after the season. Whether teams will want him given his age is questionable, so maybe a pick?

The other two names being thrown about on Puck Daddy is Halpern and St. Louis. I can't see the Lightning trading away St. Louis mostly because he's signed through 2011/1 and cheap. His locker room presence and no trade clause also helps his case. The other one is Halpern, and for him it will depend on the offer because again, he's cheap.

I'm hoping for picks and young players for the team. As demonstrated by watching our team crumble after the circus during the summer, and seeing a young Kings team still be in the playoff race in the West, I think we have to give up the old guys if there's a trade available.

Should be a good game tomorrow. Go Bolts Go!