We finally have the Cal O’Reilly contract situation resolved. Cal is on a two-way deal for this season and a one-way next. I think both sides win in this case.

Now, it’ll be interesting to see where Cal starts the season. I haven’t seen or spoken to Cal this summer. I would suspect, like other summers, he’s been working hard to gain strength and weight. There’s no doubt in my mind that Cal will be a regular in the NHL. I don’t know if this is the year, though. There are positions open in Nashville. But, with the signings of Ben Guite, Colin Wilson, Marcel Goc and others, competition is going to be tight.

One of the great things about the Predators organization is they give a guy a job if he performs well. Dan Ellis and Joel Ward are two great examples of guys that stayed in the NHL despite having their initial tickets punched for Milwaukee. If O’Reilly has a great camp, and I believe he’ll need to have a great camp, he’ll be in Nashville. If it’s not great, we’ll have him in Milwaukee for a bit.

When a player is sent down from Nashville to the Admirals, the player personnel folks expect that player to dominate at this level to prove he can make it back. Rich Peverley did that a couple seasons ago. Mike Santorelli didn’t last year.

There are not a lot of pouters in this group. I would expect a top-flight effort and big seasons from players like Mike Santorelli and O’Reilly if they’re in Milwaukee for any amount of time. The same goes for Patric Hornqvist.

Man, I can’t wait to drop the puck Oct. 3!

Moving on…

I really enjoyed the last radio show we had on Sportsradio 1250 WSSP. It was our “Tribute to Tough Guys”. Not sure how many of you remembered Neil Meadmore with the Admirals, but he had some great stories. We’ll preview the season on our last two hour show Sept. 28.

One of my favorite former Admirals, forward Zack Stortini, is featured on EA Sports website. Follow this link and you’ll see video of Zack playing NHL 2010, coming Sept. 15.

Also, Jordin Tootoo was featured in a Canadian TV show, “Road Hockey Rumble”. You can follow this link  and see some highlights from the show. Warning, it may not be suitable for young viewers because of language. It looks like a pretty funny show.

Until next time…Go Admirals!!!