Some big names were shuffled around today as the QMJHL trade deadline came crashing down and the division between the contenders and the pretenders is now extremely clear. There was a total of 21 transactions completed and here are a few of the major ones that will have huge ramifications on the league down the stretch to the playoffs and beyond.
Yesterday I mention that we were expecting to hear that Rimouski was going to package both Patrice Cormier (Photo: QMJHL) and Jordan Caron to Rouyn-Noranda and today that did actually come to fruition. Both players will be reunited with former Oceanic teammate Phil Cornet although whether they'll play together or not I do not know... although it sure would make sense wouldn't it? Cormier was the captain for Canada at the 2010 WJC and Caron was also on that team.The Huskies also added Steven Delisle (CLB) from Gatineau and sent the Olympiques Ben Miller and a trio of draft picks.
The Quebec Remparts made a few deals including to send Kelsey Tessier (COL) to Moncton in exchange for 2010 eligible goalie Louis Domingue and winger Matt Brown. Getting a terrific goalie in that deal allowed GM Patrick Roy to send Peter Delmas to Halifax for a 6th round pick. The Remparts also tradd veteran Samuel Groulx to Victoriaville for two youngsters and a 2nd round pick in 2012.For a complete rundown on the deals in the Q this year you can click on this link.
In my estimation, there are now 5 teams with any hope in hell of challenging for the QMJHL championship. Those, in order of their current standing, are: Saint John, Drummondville, Victoriaville, Moncton (all top 4) and 8th place Rouyn-Noranda.
3 comments:
you could added Cape-Breton to your list of team who could challenge for the President cup but their likely to face Moncton in the 1st rd of the playoff....
Moncton is my choice to go all the way.
I agree with the post above,
The Atlantic Division really has three teams with the ability to make some noise, but given the playoff format, one of those three is almost guaranteed to be eliminated in the first round.
Also worth mentioning is that Drummondville is expected to be welcoming Chris Didomenico back as well. Though not a trade, Didomenico, a Leafs prospect is still out after suffering a broken femur in the playoffs last May. At 20, he would be an over-ager in the Q, but word is that his rehabilitation would be better served stepping back on the ice at the junior level, rather then playing in the AHL or ECHL. To add some additional weight to this line of thinking, Drummondville has an open over-ager spot on their roster, which would normally be extremely bizarre for a contending team.
All in all, a lot of big names moved and the balance of power in the QMJHL has firmly be established.
I don't like Cape Breton as much as the teams I mentioned but you guys are closer to it than I am so I'll defer to you.
That is interesting about Didomenico Forbsey.
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