Vulcan GM Cautiously Optimistic

Vulcan (CP) With two pre-season games under their belt, the Mind Melds hold a surprising 2-0-0 record with victories against the Straphangers and the formidable Capones. "I'll admit, I'm surprised by the outcomes thus far." GM Khoo stated as he came off the jet plane from Vegas. "These were two strong teams we played against and it was interesting to see if the moves that we made in the off-season to get a team together paid off. I guess it did."

Back-to-back big time performances by Belfour proved to be the difference. "Eddie has shown us in the pre-season that he still has a lot of gas left in the tank. I knew he had it. He knew he had it. And now everyone else is finding that out."

Meanwhile, the line of Tkachuk-Zetterberg and Armstrong has been scoring at a torrid pace led by Keith's hat-trick in game 1. "We all knew that this line would be getting the lions share of the minutes and they've shown great chemistry so far. With the amount penalties being called they'll get even more opportunity to gel together. But pairing Henrik with two guys who can finish was a no-brainer."

There has even been some good contribution from the forth lines and strong penalty killing displayed. "Schaefer and Donovan are doing exactly what they were expected to do. That is to bring a strong defensive presence to the team. And I'm just thrilled at how the Chouinard line has been playing. He's been strong on the faceoffs which we'll need all season long."

"Overall I'm cautiously optimistic about the upcoming season. I know these games don't mean a thing but its nice to build some confidence heading into the regular season. If we can sneak into the playoffs I'll be a happy camper."

Fur Engee (CP)

FA Update: PP QB Found on Day 7

Vulcan (CP) As the UFA list started to dwindle, so did the chances of the Mind Melds signing a man to run the PP. Although stocked with some defencemen with some offensive firepower (e.g. Wescott and Jackman) GM Khoo didn't have a man that has been a go to guy in the past. He addressed that yesterday as former Calder winner Bryan Berard signed to a one year contract.

Bryan Berard ($1,200,000): The oft-injured Berard has had a tough career with injuries over the past several years. First it was the infamous eye incident courtesy of Hossa and now his recurring back problems. "I didn't have many options at the start but as other defencemen came off market the interest picked up immediately. Hopefully I can stay healthy this year and put up the offensive numbers I know I'm capable of."

GM Khoo's Thoughts: "Berard has had such an up and down career but there is no denying his talent. His health is always a question mark but we had the budget to fit him in and see what he can do. He's a big boost to our power play."

With some room in their budget still to go and a full 23 man roster, look for some minor signings in the next couple of days as the pre-season gets kicked off.

Fur Engee(CP)