While you surf the ‘net this morning, I invite you to listen to this month’s Dobber Nation. Mikael Backlund, some Canucks’ talk with Dan Murphy, and prospect talk with Matt Bugg… Listen Here.

The Lightning is making plans to buy out the last three years of the contract of left wing Vinny Prospal. The transaction will cost the Lightning $7 million spread out over six years. I’m not sure who they plan to use to fill in that top-six spot, given that Tyrell isn’t ready. I would suspect that they are looking at Alex Tanguay

Josh Harding will absolutely be moved this year, there is no question in my mind. If you want I can quantify it for you with my own personal “odds”. 75% chance he will be moved before October 2, 40% chance he will be moved before September 15, 100% chance he will be moved before Februaray 28.

I love working on the fantasy guide and watching the teams fall into place before my eyes. It’s amazing how educated I become about a team’s situation when I fit the forwards and defensemen into slots. I think I’m on top of the hockey world and have a strong grasp of everything, but then there is so much more to learn when it’s all laid out neatly. You can’t beat this job. With that said, it’s funny how whenever I finish a team it seems that the team goes out and makes a trade or a big signing. I polished off the Leafs yesterday afternoon, case in point. Now I’m redoing their back end. It’s funny how Anaheim is no longer making moves – they saved all their moves for the day after I did them. I’m hoping to get Vancouver and perhaps Washington done today, so look for the Caps and Canucks to swing a deal tomorrow ;)

USA Today’s Kevin Allen is reporting that the Red Wings have signed former NHLer Andy Delmore to a contract. It’s a depth move to bolster Grand Rapids.

Kari Lehtonen underwent “minor” back surgery on a herniated disc. He should be ready to return early on in training camp. Just another thing to worry about with this Band-Aid Boy.

Joel Lundqvist has signed to play in the SEL next year.

The Thrashers have signed power forward Michael Forney to an ELC. He will need a couple of years of seasoning before making the jump. His upside is minimal – perhaps 55.. Ranked 496 right now, he moves up a little with this news.

As I usually try to do, I will address questions I see in the comments under the ramblings. Regarding one from late last week about Chicago’s top six with Hossa out – I think it moves Kris Versteeg back in. I think the Sharp-Toews-Kane line really works and I also think the Ladd-Bolland-Havlat line worked well. So the belief is that Hossa would replace Havlat. That leaves Versteeg on the third line. Well, he can move up to the second line now.

Countdown until the best damn fantasy hockey resource is released: FOUR days.