The Philadelphia Flyers are one of the longest tenured organizations in the NHL. They have rich history of success and don't sit around waiting when expectations aren't met. Clearly. This lead to the firing of head coach Peter Laviolette a mere three games into the NHL season. The Flyers revamped in the off season bringing in talented veterans Vincent Lecavalier and Mark Streit to help improve upon a very disappointing 2013 season. Well, an 0-3 start, goaltending issues and a complete lack of goal scoring and, you get the idea.
Peter Laviolette is a good head coach. He won a cup in Carolina in 2006 and lead the Flyers to the finals in 2010 where they lost to the Blackhawks. That said, something clearly isn't right with this organization and the writing seemed to be on the wall. A quick look at their roster and even the most casual fan would realize that they should be a much more competitive team. Injuries played a big role in last season's struggles but they are now healthy and have the talent to be a force in the Eastern Conference, or at the very least not the doormat they've become.
The top lines have talent like captain Claude Giroux, a better than point a game player over the last few seasons, Maxim Talbot, Jakob Voracek, Wayne Simmonds, Sean Couturier, Scott Hartnell and the aforementioned Lecavalier, so why haven't they been able to generate offense? Through three games they've scored a paltry three goals. Guys living in their grandma's basements have less trouble closing the deal. With their roster and high priced talent something had to give and as is usually the case it's the guy steering the ship.
Assistant coach Craig Berube was given the reins as new bench boss and it will be up to him to get things moving in a more positive direction, quickly I'd imagine. Ed Snyder was prickly with the media when asked about why they didn't go outside the organization, as the Flyers like the Edmonton Oilers have a long history of keeping things in house ie: Ron Hextall, John Paddock, Bobby Clarke, etc. when it comes to staffing positions. Nepotism aside it seems the time had come for chance and as Berube told Hockey Central at Noon they need to start working better together as a team in order to have success. He reiterated that the overall team game wasn't good enough and that's where their biggest problems lie. Time will tell if they are able to correct this or if it will be the roster that is shuffled in order to accomplish this. The press conference with GM Paul Holmgren was that of a frustrated and disappointed group who seemed to be looking for answers they didn't have. The Flyers have been successful and should be with this lineup so it's understandable that management wasn't happy with the way things were going.
Whatever the case, you know the fans in Philly want to see evidence of progress, and soon. For a city know as that of 'Brotherly Love' they seem to have no problem showing people the way out of town.
Monday, October 7, 2013
Wednesday, October 2, 2013
Alfred-Gone: The Daniel Alfredsson Saga
For the past many years there were several things you could count on in Ottawa come the winter. Bickering on Parliament Hill, Beaver Tails on the canal and Dainel Alfredsson leading the Sens into another season. He was their steadying presence, the undisputed leader looked to in big moments and high pressure situations to do something special. I'll never forget that afternoon when he beat Ryan Miller with a quick shot and sent Ottawa to the Stanley Cup finals. I remember walking downtown later that afternoon and evening and the whole city seemed to be in a buzz, (and a little buzzed), a constant commotion of victorious shouts and car horns echoing in celebration. The All star game in Ottawa a few years ago seemed almost dedicated to him as fans chanted his name and sang his praises. The eleven minute marks of every period during home games was met with chants of 'Alfie, Alfie, Alfie!' He was always gracious and took it all in. This love affair seemed destined to go on for ever. He was even expected to join the management team once he hung up his skates. After seeing several key players go down with injury last season Alfie lead the charge as the Sens defied the odds and made the playoffs. They even knocked off the Canadiens and though they bowed out to a powerful Pittsburgh team, fans were excited to see this young club on the rise. They felt they were on the cusp of something special and if Alife could just come back for one more year, with a healthy roster, who knows how far they could go?
Then the announcement came. Alfie would be coming back for one more year! Like man family, friends and fans I took to Facebook and Twitter to express my excitement and was glad for the status quo. The team is young and a leader like that doesn't come along everyday. This was great news for the organization and would surely help the development of the franchise moving forward. It was also a foregone conclusion that when he came back, he'd be in a Sens jersey. Right? Then came another day I won't soon forget. I slept in and woke to hear the news that Daniel Alfredsson would indeed be returning to the NHL. For the Detroit Red Wings. Wait. What? How the hell could this have happened? When did this happen? And who let it? To make matters worse, Detroit, in what seems like some sort of karmic joke, was now in the same division which meant he was now a direct enemy. Et Tu Alfie?
Now, as someone chasing his own crazy dream of becoming a screenwriter I can hardly criticize someone for following their heart, (or perhaps their misguided agent), and doing what they feel is best for them. Alfie even said, in a statement it was a selfish decision, one he made for himself to try and win a Stanley Cup. It would seem unfair and irrational to hate someone for this, but then what part of of being a fan is rational? As Alfie had every right to do what is best for him it is a fans right to be angry. To feel spurned and hurt by his actions. His decision was clearly an indication he didn't feel that this team had what it takes to go all the way so he went looking for someone who did. He found it in Detroit, along with many of his Swedish buddies, and time will tell how this will play out. Many seem to forget Detroit also acquire free agent Stephen Weiss from Florida, a solid player in his own right, and probably should have knocked off Chicago before choking up a 3-1 series lead last year, so logic would say this is the better option, at least for this season, as much as it pains me to admit that.
However, this is a double edged sword. True, if not for the play and veteran leadership of Alfredsson and Sergi Gonchar, now with Dallas, the Sens likely would not have made the playoffs last season, but now this young and very hungry group has even more motivation to take that next step. A chip on one's shoulder can serve to distract or to motivate and it's up to new captain Jason Spezza, and his leaders, like Chis Phillips and Chris Neil, along with Coach Paul MacLean and his staff to ensure that they keep focused on the task at hand. However, the loss of Daniel Alfredsson only serves to remind Sens fans of mistakes past.
This is an organization that has lost the like of Zedeno Chara, Wade Redden (say what you like, at the time they could have got a pretty penny in return) and now it's most storied player, all for the grand total of: zero. Nothing. Zilch. Nada. Not a draft pick, not a player to be named later, not even so much as a bag of pucks. The pain caused to the young kid left in tears because he doesn't quite grasp the business aspects of the sport, only that his favorite player is gone and seemingly hates the team will eventually heal, but losing this kind of talent for nothing can damage a franchise for years. In life how we go about conducting ourselves is paramount to the reputation we have, and how this went down has, rightfully, left many in Ottawa with a bitter taste in their mouth.
In fairness, Alfredsson expressed that it was only in the few days leading up to his decision that it even crossed his mind to leave. And while I don't doubt this was the case, why all of a sudden? Why now? Many say his agent JP Berry had a lot to do with this, as money clearly didn't seem to be the issue. No one seemed more surprised than Sens GM Bryan Murray who like the rest of us, assumed it would get done. Owner Eugene Melnyk was livid and though many blame him, I don't really understand that as Alfie would have gotten his money regardless. It's the fact that the organization could have got something in return. Anything. Why not ask at the trade deadline or before your contract expired to be moved? This organization was more than fair to you, why bull this stunt now? Yes you played last year for less than your value, because you made all your money up front, AND the Sens were certainly going to make you well paid again this season. Had he been honest and upfront about all this it would have cushioned the blow and people would have been grateful for what he had done. Think Roy Halliday in Toronto.
Perhaps we'll never know what all went on behind closed doors, and it's sad that a man who meant so much to this city hurt his own reputation in this way. I wish I could say I wish him luck, and though I certainly wish him no ill will, that's childish and petty, let's just say karma's a...
Then the announcement came. Alfie would be coming back for one more year! Like man family, friends and fans I took to Facebook and Twitter to express my excitement and was glad for the status quo. The team is young and a leader like that doesn't come along everyday. This was great news for the organization and would surely help the development of the franchise moving forward. It was also a foregone conclusion that when he came back, he'd be in a Sens jersey. Right? Then came another day I won't soon forget. I slept in and woke to hear the news that Daniel Alfredsson would indeed be returning to the NHL. For the Detroit Red Wings. Wait. What? How the hell could this have happened? When did this happen? And who let it? To make matters worse, Detroit, in what seems like some sort of karmic joke, was now in the same division which meant he was now a direct enemy. Et Tu Alfie?
Now, as someone chasing his own crazy dream of becoming a screenwriter I can hardly criticize someone for following their heart, (or perhaps their misguided agent), and doing what they feel is best for them. Alfie even said, in a statement it was a selfish decision, one he made for himself to try and win a Stanley Cup. It would seem unfair and irrational to hate someone for this, but then what part of of being a fan is rational? As Alfie had every right to do what is best for him it is a fans right to be angry. To feel spurned and hurt by his actions. His decision was clearly an indication he didn't feel that this team had what it takes to go all the way so he went looking for someone who did. He found it in Detroit, along with many of his Swedish buddies, and time will tell how this will play out. Many seem to forget Detroit also acquire free agent Stephen Weiss from Florida, a solid player in his own right, and probably should have knocked off Chicago before choking up a 3-1 series lead last year, so logic would say this is the better option, at least for this season, as much as it pains me to admit that.
However, this is a double edged sword. True, if not for the play and veteran leadership of Alfredsson and Sergi Gonchar, now with Dallas, the Sens likely would not have made the playoffs last season, but now this young and very hungry group has even more motivation to take that next step. A chip on one's shoulder can serve to distract or to motivate and it's up to new captain Jason Spezza, and his leaders, like Chis Phillips and Chris Neil, along with Coach Paul MacLean and his staff to ensure that they keep focused on the task at hand. However, the loss of Daniel Alfredsson only serves to remind Sens fans of mistakes past.
This is an organization that has lost the like of Zedeno Chara, Wade Redden (say what you like, at the time they could have got a pretty penny in return) and now it's most storied player, all for the grand total of: zero. Nothing. Zilch. Nada. Not a draft pick, not a player to be named later, not even so much as a bag of pucks. The pain caused to the young kid left in tears because he doesn't quite grasp the business aspects of the sport, only that his favorite player is gone and seemingly hates the team will eventually heal, but losing this kind of talent for nothing can damage a franchise for years. In life how we go about conducting ourselves is paramount to the reputation we have, and how this went down has, rightfully, left many in Ottawa with a bitter taste in their mouth.
In fairness, Alfredsson expressed that it was only in the few days leading up to his decision that it even crossed his mind to leave. And while I don't doubt this was the case, why all of a sudden? Why now? Many say his agent JP Berry had a lot to do with this, as money clearly didn't seem to be the issue. No one seemed more surprised than Sens GM Bryan Murray who like the rest of us, assumed it would get done. Owner Eugene Melnyk was livid and though many blame him, I don't really understand that as Alfie would have gotten his money regardless. It's the fact that the organization could have got something in return. Anything. Why not ask at the trade deadline or before your contract expired to be moved? This organization was more than fair to you, why bull this stunt now? Yes you played last year for less than your value, because you made all your money up front, AND the Sens were certainly going to make you well paid again this season. Had he been honest and upfront about all this it would have cushioned the blow and people would have been grateful for what he had done. Think Roy Halliday in Toronto.
Perhaps we'll never know what all went on behind closed doors, and it's sad that a man who meant so much to this city hurt his own reputation in this way. I wish I could say I wish him luck, and though I certainly wish him no ill will, that's childish and petty, let's just say karma's a...
Tuesday, October 1, 2013
Predictions and Story Lines NHL 2013-14
The Puck drops on the 2013/14 NHL season tonight so let's take a look into the future and see what to expect, and a few story lines to watch out for.
Where are They Now?: One of the biggest story lines heading into the new season is undoubtedly divisional
realignment. Common sense, finally, prevailed and Detroit and Columbus were
moved to the Eastern Conference. There are now four Divisions, two in each
conference, instead of six and a revamped playoff format to promote divisional
rivalries. On the whole the moves will help fans see their team in a decent time slot
and ensure that teams will visit every city at least once a year. While many note that
there is an imbalance between the East and West, 16 teams vs. 14, this is just
whining for the sake of it. The top teams will still be there in the end.
Capital Pains? : The loss of long time captain Daniel Alfredsson to new division rival Detroit will usher in a
new era in the nations capital. Detroit also added Stephen Weiss from Florida and look to
make a serious run in the East. Ottawa however, should not be taken lightly. They are a
young team with a lot of energy and a lot to prove. Playing with a chip on their shoulder after
being slighted may be a very good motivator.
Have we met? : The Vancouver Canucks and New York Rangers pulled off a coach swap, sort of. It wasn't
as if they traded them, but Alain Vinegault is now the boss in New York and John Tortorella
is now, loudly, calling the shots out west. Both teams failed to reach expectations last season
so it will be up to these men to turn them around.
Avalanche Warning: The Colorado Avalanche look to improve upon a dismal season with Patrick Roy now
taking over coaching duties. There should be no problem with players being to what is
expected of them from the fiery coach who looks to parlay his junior success into the
NHL. Helping him will be first overall pick Nathan McKinnon who will be expected to
add some scoring punch right away. The Avalanche have fallen a long way from the
glory days of Sakic and Roy, now these two look to lead them back to playoff glory.
Hybrid Icing: How it's called will be vital, but it's no doubt this will help prevent injuries that occur from what
is one of the most dangerous plays in the game and will help pick up the pace as well.
Stanley Cup: I think the Pittsburgh Penguins will finally get back to the top of the mountain. They have the
depth and skill, all they need is solid goaltending and I believe Marc-Andre Fleury can and will
bounce back from some less than stellar, Ok downright awful, playoff performances.
Who do you see taking home the big prize? What are you looking out for? As always, let me know...
Where are They Now?: One of the biggest story lines heading into the new season is undoubtedly divisional
realignment. Common sense, finally, prevailed and Detroit and Columbus were
moved to the Eastern Conference. There are now four Divisions, two in each
conference, instead of six and a revamped playoff format to promote divisional
rivalries. On the whole the moves will help fans see their team in a decent time slot
and ensure that teams will visit every city at least once a year. While many note that
there is an imbalance between the East and West, 16 teams vs. 14, this is just
whining for the sake of it. The top teams will still be there in the end.
Capital Pains? : The loss of long time captain Daniel Alfredsson to new division rival Detroit will usher in a
new era in the nations capital. Detroit also added Stephen Weiss from Florida and look to
make a serious run in the East. Ottawa however, should not be taken lightly. They are a
young team with a lot of energy and a lot to prove. Playing with a chip on their shoulder after
being slighted may be a very good motivator.
Have we met? : The Vancouver Canucks and New York Rangers pulled off a coach swap, sort of. It wasn't
as if they traded them, but Alain Vinegault is now the boss in New York and John Tortorella
is now, loudly, calling the shots out west. Both teams failed to reach expectations last season
so it will be up to these men to turn them around.
Avalanche Warning: The Colorado Avalanche look to improve upon a dismal season with Patrick Roy now
taking over coaching duties. There should be no problem with players being to what is
expected of them from the fiery coach who looks to parlay his junior success into the
NHL. Helping him will be first overall pick Nathan McKinnon who will be expected to
add some scoring punch right away. The Avalanche have fallen a long way from the
glory days of Sakic and Roy, now these two look to lead them back to playoff glory.
Hybrid Icing: How it's called will be vital, but it's no doubt this will help prevent injuries that occur from what
is one of the most dangerous plays in the game and will help pick up the pace as well.
Stanley Cup: I think the Pittsburgh Penguins will finally get back to the top of the mountain. They have the
depth and skill, all they need is solid goaltending and I believe Marc-Andre Fleury can and will
bounce back from some less than stellar, Ok downright awful, playoff performances.
Who do you see taking home the big prize? What are you looking out for? As always, let me know...
Monday, September 30, 2013
NHL 2013-14 Preview Extravaganza!
The leaves are changing colours, the Maple Leafs will soon be falling, and the days are getting shorter than John Tortorella's patience. Yes folks, hockey is back, and with plenty of off season changes, we'll take a look at the season ahead.
Anaheim - The Ducks resigned Cory Perry and Ryan Getzlaf to lucrative contracts and with both looking to
return to Canada's Olympic roster they should earn that money. They also traded Bobby Ryan to
Ottawa but got a talented young player in Jakob Silfverberg in return to add to a roster of other
young players like Nick Bonnio, Cam Fowler, Matt Beleskey, Kyle Palmieri and the seemingly
ageless Teemu Selanne . Look for the Ducks to make a serious push for the post season.
Boston - The defending Eastern Conference champs will be looking to repeat and acquired, finally, free
agent Jerome Iginla to help them. They lost defenceman Andrew Ference to Edmonton but have
young guns Tory Krug and Dougie Hamilton on the back end along with Captain Zedeno Chara.
Goalie Tuuka Raask was locked up to a new deal so the Bruins will once again be a bear to play
against.
Buffalo - The Sabres biggest question, as it was last year, is which Ryan Miller will they get? The one who
was widely considered one of the best in the game a few seasons ago, or the guy they've had
lately? With a potential Team USA spot on the line look for Miller to come out of the gate strong,
though much of his success may depend Tyler Myers and the rest of Buffalo's blue line to bounce
back from a forgettable season.
Calgary - The Flames admitted they had burnt out and are now in full rebuild mode. Gone are Jerome Iginla,
Jay Bowmeester and Miika Kiprussof. They have a number of young players like Shawn
Monahan looking to make an impact and added Joe Colbourn from Toronto for some size up
front. how Kari Ramo does in goal will have a lot to do with their success but it may be a long
season of growing pains for coach Bob Hartley, necessary for this transition.
Carolina - The Hurricanes, in the estimation of many, underperformed last year and much of that can be
attributed to key injuries, mainly to starting goalie Cam Ward. They have talent, and three Stall
brothers, which should put them in the mix in the east for a playoff spot. The chemistry between
Alexander Semin and Eric Stall likely helped get Semin his shiny new contract so he now has to
live up to it.
Chicago - The Champs from the Windy City blew away the competition, only after nearly blowing it against
the rival Red Wings, but have all the makings of a contender. Ray Emery is gone back to Philly
replaced by veteran Nikolai Khabibulin, Dave Bolland is now with the Leafs and Michale Frolik
with the Jets, but the Blackhawks have a ton of depth and experience. Captain Jonathan Toews
leads this dynamic group who will look to be the first repeat champ since the Red Wings in
1997/98.
Colorado - The addition of first overall pick Nathan Mckinnon was huge for the Avalanche, but was
somewhat over shadowed by the return of one of the biggest names in the game, Patrick Roy
who brings his fiery personality behind the bench after a successful stint with the Quebec
Ramparts in the QMJHL where he won a Memorial Cup. It will be up to Colorado's other
young guns in Paul Stastny, Matt Duschene and captain Gabriel Landeskog to lead this group
who will have help from veteran Alex Tanguay who returns to the club as a free agent.
Columbus - The Buckeye state saw their team make a serious push for the post season and relocation to
Eastern Conference should help the fan base get to see more games. The performance of Sergi
Bobrovski, the Vezina winner, and the addition of Marion Gaborik and Nathan Horton should
make this an interesting young club to watch.
Dallas - The Stars realigned after failing to make the post season again last year. Gone are Loui Ericsson
and Jaromir Jagr. In are Shawn Horcoff and Tyler Seguin who look to help return this team to the
post season. The talented Jamie Benn was named captain and new head coach Lindey Ruff will
have veteran addition Sergi Gonchar on the back end to help the power play and mentor the young
defensive core.
Detroit - The Wings didn't spend any time idling this summer as the men from the motor city revved up their
offense with the addition, somehow, of Daniel Alfredsson and Steven Weiss. The Wings almost
knocked off the rival Blackhawks last season and with their move to the Eastern conference they
will be a very serious contender to make another long playoff run. Jimmy Howard has proven he
can shoulder the load in net so it will be up to his defensive core to perform in front of him.
Edmonton - The Oilers are now at that stage where everyone, especially new GM Craig McTavish and
new head coach Dallas Eakins, will be looking for them to take that next step. They acquired
newly named captain Andrew Ference to shore up the blue line and provide leadership now that
Shawn Horcoff is in Dallas, but it will be up to the like of Sam Gagner and Ryan
Nugent-Hopkins (when they return from injury) as well as Taylor Hall and Jordan Eberle to
show they can lead. Devin Dubnyk faced more shots than any goalie last season and performed
well but will need to step up for the Oilers to have any chance at the post season.
Florida - The Panthers added veteran presence in Ryan Whitney, Scott Gomez and the mercurial Tim
Thomas, back from his self imposed leave, to a core of young up and comers like Jonathan
Huberdeau and Jakob Markstrom. The Panthers will have a tough time competing in the east if
they aren't able to get their young players who have some experience like Shawn Mathias and
Chris Versteeg to step up. The addition of Brad Boyes gives them some help scoring goals should
he be able to find some chemistry with his new line mates. They have young talent like Erik
Gudbranson and Dmitry Kulikov on the blue line anchored by veteran captain Ed Jovanovski
who will also have to step up.
Los Angeles - The Kings have much of their roster in tact from their cup with two years ago and are looking
to reclaim their crown. The loss of Jonathan Bernier to Toronto means less depth in goal but
if Jonathan Quick can get off to a solid start, and they can stay healthy, their season may have
another Hollywood ending.
Minnesota - The Wild spent a lot of money last off season and it payed early dividends with both Zack
Parise and Ryan Suter stepping up and helping lead them to a playoff spot. They have a new
division rival in nearby Winnipeg and if Josh Harding can continue to perform under his own
difficult personal circumstances, the Wild could make another playoff push. The loss of Devin
Setoguchi to Winnipeg means more production will be expected out of Dany Heatley and
captain Miko Koivu as well as last years deadline addition Jason Pomminville.
Montreal - The Habs added several parts this off season in the flashy Daniel Briere, the rugged Douglas
Murray and scrapper/mustache enthusiast George Parros in order to return to the post season.
The Habs will need a full season of production from Norris Trophy winner PK Subban as well as
a bounce back year from Carey Price, tagged by many to make Canada's Olympic team, in
order to succeed. Their turn around last season was incredible but they will have to show it
wasn't a fluke.
Nashville - The Predators will be, well, the Predators. They likely won't be flashy or high scoring but with
Barry Trotz calling the shots, and a solid blue line anchored by Shea Weber and one of the best
goalies in the game in Pekka Rinne the Preds should be consistent and not a lot of fun to play
against. The addition of Seth Jones will help ensure the blue line will have more depth and with
Ryan Ellis's continued development it is a strong suit.
New Jersey - GM Lou Lamarillo pulled off a deal the Devil himself would be proud of, basically stealing
Corey Schneider from Vancouver for a first round pick. The old question of what the hell will
they do when Brodeur retires seems to have been answered. The addition of Jaromir Jagr will
not replace the loss of Ilya Kovalchuck by any means, but adds a veteran presence who may
occasionally chip in, or at least offer advice on hair care. Ryan Clowe is another new comer
expected to fill the void left by David Clarkson but the Devils will have a Devil of a time if they
can't get more production from their young players.
New York Islanders - The Islanders finally took that leap forward last year and made the post season, lead
by newly appointed captain, and the guy who SHOULD have been MVP, John
Tavares. They have a lot of young talent like Kyle Okposo and Matt Moulson who
will have to continue to produce to repeat this playoff appearance. The loss of Mark
Streit hurts the blue line so their young D-core, including Hamonic, Hickey and Calvin
De Hann will have to step up.
New York Rangers - The Rangers new coach Alain Vineault will undoubtedly bring a calmer demeanor
behind the bench than John Tortorella, as would most Pit Bulls, but it will be up to the
likes of Rick Nash and company to respond. Brad Richards is coming off an abysmal
year and much, much more is going to be expected of him. Henrik Lundqvist is always
solid and Ryan Callahan provides steady leadership so will the Blushirts finally live up
to lofty expectations?
Ottawa - The Alfie era is over in the nation's capital, and it will be up to new captain Jason Spezza to lead
this young team back to the playoffs. Loaded with young talent like Bobby Ryan, Erik Karlsson
and Milan Michalek the Sens will be a contender in the east if they can stay healthy, get the
continued solid goaltending both Craig Anderson and Robin Lehner provided them and get
production from young guys like Mikka Zabanijad and Corey Conacher. Also they can't dwell
on the acrimonious departure of Alfresdsson but a chip on the shoulder may help motivate.
Philadelphia - The Flyers lost one French Canadian star in Daniel Briere and replaced him with another in
Vincent Lecavalier who will look to prove his bests days aren't over just yet. Captain Claude
Giroux will lead a team with a new go to defenseman in Mark Streit and goaltender in Steve
Mason who will be looking to prove he can regain his Calder trophy winning from from a few
seasons ago. The Flyers have some depth and youth but like most teams they need to stay
healthy, especially on defense, to return to the post season.
Phoenix - With the ownership situation settled, somewhat the Coyotes will no longer be dogged by questions
about where they will be playing but rather can they compete in the difficult Western Conference.
Goalie Mike Smith certainly gives them an opportunity every night and coach Dave Tippet has
done a fantastic job with his group and with strong leadership lead by Shane Doan, and up and
coming defenseman Oliver Eckam-Larsson the Coyotes should at least be competitive.
Pittsburgh - The situation in Pittsburgh is simple. They will not be measured on anything before April. This is
an extremely talented team who rightfully have Stanley Cup aspirations and after failing to take
flight the last few post seasons will need to be better this time around. Marc-Andre Fleury is a
big reason why they have struggled and he will need to find his game again if they have any
chance at recapturing Lord Stanley's mug.
San Jose - The Sharks have long been a team on the persipice of making a serious run at the cup but have
come up short time and time again. With a solid mix of veterans and youth the Sharks have the
offensive bite to compete but need solid goaltending from Antti Niemi and improve play from
their defense in order to take that next step. Logan Couture will be the next generation for this
team and will be counted on to show that leadership.
St Louis - EA Sports prediction aside, the Blues will be a threat to whomever stands in their way. They have
a lot of size and skill, epitomized by captain David Backes, a good coach in Ken Hitchcock and
a solid blue line lead by Jackman, Bouwmeester and Pieterangelo. The question is can their
goalteending regain it's form from two seasons ago when both Jaroslav Halak and Brain Elliott
were stellar. If so the Blues may finally take home hockey's ultimate prize.
Tampa Bay - The departure of long time captain Vincent Lecavlaier means a new era for the Lightning and
GM Steve Yzerman. Lead by Steve Stamkos, and Martin St, Louis the Lightning will need a
solid season out of Ben Bishop in his first full year with the team in order to improve. The
health of the fragile Sami Salo and veteran Matias Ohlund on defense will have a big say in
how well this club performs.
Toronto - The Maple Leafs added some grit in David Clarkson who promptly showed them just what they
were getting and will now miss the first ten games of the year for leaving the bench to fight. They
also shrewdly added Jonathan Bernier and Dave Bolland to bolster and resigned Tyler Bozak
Cody Franson and Nazim Kadri to keep most of their core in tact. The Leafs will be in tough in
their newly realigned Atlantic division but should make a push for the playoffs if they can get
solid goaltending and Joffrey Lupul can stay healthy.
Vancouver - The Canucks brought in no nonsense, and all time post game press conference superstar, John
Tortorella to help bring some passion behind the bench. They traded Corey Schneider to New
Jersey and what's old is new again and Roberto Luongo is back starting in net. Many see the
Canucks window as closing and it well may be but if they can stay healthy, they have a lot of
talent and experience, lead by the Sedin brothers, and if the likes of David Booth and Ryan
Kessler stay healthy and perform to their abilities they should make things interesting on the
west coast.
Washington - The Capitals were up and down last seasons under new head coach Adam Oates but finished
strong and almost ousted the Rangers in the playoffs. The Caps will need captain Alex
Ovechkin to start well from the get go as well as Nick Backstrom and Mike Green. Braydon
Holtby has been solid in net and needs to continue improving for them to be a serious threat.
The loss of Mike Roberio and Mathieu Perrault means they have less depth too meaning new
comer Mikhael Grabovski will need to fill in.
Winnipeg - The Jets return to the west and look to improve upon nearly missing the post season last year.
The additions of Michael Frolik from Chicago and Devin Setoguchi from Minnesota will help to
add depth upfront where they often relied on their top guns of Ladd, Kane, Little and Wheeler
far too much last season. They will also be looking for Zack Bogosian to have a bounce back
season after an injury riddle campaign and Ondrej Pavelec to step up in goal if they hope not to
be grounded before the playoffs.
Anaheim - The Ducks resigned Cory Perry and Ryan Getzlaf to lucrative contracts and with both looking to
return to Canada's Olympic roster they should earn that money. They also traded Bobby Ryan to
Ottawa but got a talented young player in Jakob Silfverberg in return to add to a roster of other
young players like Nick Bonnio, Cam Fowler, Matt Beleskey, Kyle Palmieri and the seemingly
ageless Teemu Selanne . Look for the Ducks to make a serious push for the post season.
Boston - The defending Eastern Conference champs will be looking to repeat and acquired, finally, free
agent Jerome Iginla to help them. They lost defenceman Andrew Ference to Edmonton but have
young guns Tory Krug and Dougie Hamilton on the back end along with Captain Zedeno Chara.
Goalie Tuuka Raask was locked up to a new deal so the Bruins will once again be a bear to play
against.
Buffalo - The Sabres biggest question, as it was last year, is which Ryan Miller will they get? The one who
was widely considered one of the best in the game a few seasons ago, or the guy they've had
lately? With a potential Team USA spot on the line look for Miller to come out of the gate strong,
though much of his success may depend Tyler Myers and the rest of Buffalo's blue line to bounce
back from a forgettable season.
Calgary - The Flames admitted they had burnt out and are now in full rebuild mode. Gone are Jerome Iginla,
Jay Bowmeester and Miika Kiprussof. They have a number of young players like Shawn
Monahan looking to make an impact and added Joe Colbourn from Toronto for some size up
front. how Kari Ramo does in goal will have a lot to do with their success but it may be a long
season of growing pains for coach Bob Hartley, necessary for this transition.
Carolina - The Hurricanes, in the estimation of many, underperformed last year and much of that can be
attributed to key injuries, mainly to starting goalie Cam Ward. They have talent, and three Stall
brothers, which should put them in the mix in the east for a playoff spot. The chemistry between
Alexander Semin and Eric Stall likely helped get Semin his shiny new contract so he now has to
live up to it.
Chicago - The Champs from the Windy City blew away the competition, only after nearly blowing it against
the rival Red Wings, but have all the makings of a contender. Ray Emery is gone back to Philly
replaced by veteran Nikolai Khabibulin, Dave Bolland is now with the Leafs and Michale Frolik
with the Jets, but the Blackhawks have a ton of depth and experience. Captain Jonathan Toews
leads this dynamic group who will look to be the first repeat champ since the Red Wings in
1997/98.
Colorado - The addition of first overall pick Nathan Mckinnon was huge for the Avalanche, but was
somewhat over shadowed by the return of one of the biggest names in the game, Patrick Roy
who brings his fiery personality behind the bench after a successful stint with the Quebec
Ramparts in the QMJHL where he won a Memorial Cup. It will be up to Colorado's other
young guns in Paul Stastny, Matt Duschene and captain Gabriel Landeskog to lead this group
who will have help from veteran Alex Tanguay who returns to the club as a free agent.
Columbus - The Buckeye state saw their team make a serious push for the post season and relocation to
Eastern Conference should help the fan base get to see more games. The performance of Sergi
Bobrovski, the Vezina winner, and the addition of Marion Gaborik and Nathan Horton should
make this an interesting young club to watch.
Dallas - The Stars realigned after failing to make the post season again last year. Gone are Loui Ericsson
and Jaromir Jagr. In are Shawn Horcoff and Tyler Seguin who look to help return this team to the
post season. The talented Jamie Benn was named captain and new head coach Lindey Ruff will
have veteran addition Sergi Gonchar on the back end to help the power play and mentor the young
defensive core.
Detroit - The Wings didn't spend any time idling this summer as the men from the motor city revved up their
offense with the addition, somehow, of Daniel Alfredsson and Steven Weiss. The Wings almost
knocked off the rival Blackhawks last season and with their move to the Eastern conference they
will be a very serious contender to make another long playoff run. Jimmy Howard has proven he
can shoulder the load in net so it will be up to his defensive core to perform in front of him.
Edmonton - The Oilers are now at that stage where everyone, especially new GM Craig McTavish and
new head coach Dallas Eakins, will be looking for them to take that next step. They acquired
newly named captain Andrew Ference to shore up the blue line and provide leadership now that
Shawn Horcoff is in Dallas, but it will be up to the like of Sam Gagner and Ryan
Nugent-Hopkins (when they return from injury) as well as Taylor Hall and Jordan Eberle to
show they can lead. Devin Dubnyk faced more shots than any goalie last season and performed
well but will need to step up for the Oilers to have any chance at the post season.
Florida - The Panthers added veteran presence in Ryan Whitney, Scott Gomez and the mercurial Tim
Thomas, back from his self imposed leave, to a core of young up and comers like Jonathan
Huberdeau and Jakob Markstrom. The Panthers will have a tough time competing in the east if
they aren't able to get their young players who have some experience like Shawn Mathias and
Chris Versteeg to step up. The addition of Brad Boyes gives them some help scoring goals should
he be able to find some chemistry with his new line mates. They have young talent like Erik
Gudbranson and Dmitry Kulikov on the blue line anchored by veteran captain Ed Jovanovski
who will also have to step up.
Los Angeles - The Kings have much of their roster in tact from their cup with two years ago and are looking
to reclaim their crown. The loss of Jonathan Bernier to Toronto means less depth in goal but
if Jonathan Quick can get off to a solid start, and they can stay healthy, their season may have
another Hollywood ending.
Minnesota - The Wild spent a lot of money last off season and it payed early dividends with both Zack
Parise and Ryan Suter stepping up and helping lead them to a playoff spot. They have a new
division rival in nearby Winnipeg and if Josh Harding can continue to perform under his own
difficult personal circumstances, the Wild could make another playoff push. The loss of Devin
Setoguchi to Winnipeg means more production will be expected out of Dany Heatley and
captain Miko Koivu as well as last years deadline addition Jason Pomminville.
Montreal - The Habs added several parts this off season in the flashy Daniel Briere, the rugged Douglas
Murray and scrapper/mustache enthusiast George Parros in order to return to the post season.
The Habs will need a full season of production from Norris Trophy winner PK Subban as well as
a bounce back year from Carey Price, tagged by many to make Canada's Olympic team, in
order to succeed. Their turn around last season was incredible but they will have to show it
wasn't a fluke.
Nashville - The Predators will be, well, the Predators. They likely won't be flashy or high scoring but with
Barry Trotz calling the shots, and a solid blue line anchored by Shea Weber and one of the best
goalies in the game in Pekka Rinne the Preds should be consistent and not a lot of fun to play
against. The addition of Seth Jones will help ensure the blue line will have more depth and with
Ryan Ellis's continued development it is a strong suit.
New Jersey - GM Lou Lamarillo pulled off a deal the Devil himself would be proud of, basically stealing
Corey Schneider from Vancouver for a first round pick. The old question of what the hell will
they do when Brodeur retires seems to have been answered. The addition of Jaromir Jagr will
not replace the loss of Ilya Kovalchuck by any means, but adds a veteran presence who may
occasionally chip in, or at least offer advice on hair care. Ryan Clowe is another new comer
expected to fill the void left by David Clarkson but the Devils will have a Devil of a time if they
can't get more production from their young players.
New York Islanders - The Islanders finally took that leap forward last year and made the post season, lead
by newly appointed captain, and the guy who SHOULD have been MVP, John
Tavares. They have a lot of young talent like Kyle Okposo and Matt Moulson who
will have to continue to produce to repeat this playoff appearance. The loss of Mark
Streit hurts the blue line so their young D-core, including Hamonic, Hickey and Calvin
De Hann will have to step up.
New York Rangers - The Rangers new coach Alain Vineault will undoubtedly bring a calmer demeanor
behind the bench than John Tortorella, as would most Pit Bulls, but it will be up to the
likes of Rick Nash and company to respond. Brad Richards is coming off an abysmal
year and much, much more is going to be expected of him. Henrik Lundqvist is always
solid and Ryan Callahan provides steady leadership so will the Blushirts finally live up
to lofty expectations?
Ottawa - The Alfie era is over in the nation's capital, and it will be up to new captain Jason Spezza to lead
this young team back to the playoffs. Loaded with young talent like Bobby Ryan, Erik Karlsson
and Milan Michalek the Sens will be a contender in the east if they can stay healthy, get the
continued solid goaltending both Craig Anderson and Robin Lehner provided them and get
production from young guys like Mikka Zabanijad and Corey Conacher. Also they can't dwell
on the acrimonious departure of Alfresdsson but a chip on the shoulder may help motivate.
Philadelphia - The Flyers lost one French Canadian star in Daniel Briere and replaced him with another in
Vincent Lecavalier who will look to prove his bests days aren't over just yet. Captain Claude
Giroux will lead a team with a new go to defenseman in Mark Streit and goaltender in Steve
Mason who will be looking to prove he can regain his Calder trophy winning from from a few
seasons ago. The Flyers have some depth and youth but like most teams they need to stay
healthy, especially on defense, to return to the post season.
Phoenix - With the ownership situation settled, somewhat the Coyotes will no longer be dogged by questions
about where they will be playing but rather can they compete in the difficult Western Conference.
Goalie Mike Smith certainly gives them an opportunity every night and coach Dave Tippet has
done a fantastic job with his group and with strong leadership lead by Shane Doan, and up and
coming defenseman Oliver Eckam-Larsson the Coyotes should at least be competitive.
Pittsburgh - The situation in Pittsburgh is simple. They will not be measured on anything before April. This is
an extremely talented team who rightfully have Stanley Cup aspirations and after failing to take
flight the last few post seasons will need to be better this time around. Marc-Andre Fleury is a
big reason why they have struggled and he will need to find his game again if they have any
chance at recapturing Lord Stanley's mug.
San Jose - The Sharks have long been a team on the persipice of making a serious run at the cup but have
come up short time and time again. With a solid mix of veterans and youth the Sharks have the
offensive bite to compete but need solid goaltending from Antti Niemi and improve play from
their defense in order to take that next step. Logan Couture will be the next generation for this
team and will be counted on to show that leadership.
St Louis - EA Sports prediction aside, the Blues will be a threat to whomever stands in their way. They have
a lot of size and skill, epitomized by captain David Backes, a good coach in Ken Hitchcock and
a solid blue line lead by Jackman, Bouwmeester and Pieterangelo. The question is can their
goalteending regain it's form from two seasons ago when both Jaroslav Halak and Brain Elliott
were stellar. If so the Blues may finally take home hockey's ultimate prize.
Tampa Bay - The departure of long time captain Vincent Lecavlaier means a new era for the Lightning and
GM Steve Yzerman. Lead by Steve Stamkos, and Martin St, Louis the Lightning will need a
solid season out of Ben Bishop in his first full year with the team in order to improve. The
health of the fragile Sami Salo and veteran Matias Ohlund on defense will have a big say in
how well this club performs.
Toronto - The Maple Leafs added some grit in David Clarkson who promptly showed them just what they
were getting and will now miss the first ten games of the year for leaving the bench to fight. They
also shrewdly added Jonathan Bernier and Dave Bolland to bolster and resigned Tyler Bozak
Cody Franson and Nazim Kadri to keep most of their core in tact. The Leafs will be in tough in
their newly realigned Atlantic division but should make a push for the playoffs if they can get
solid goaltending and Joffrey Lupul can stay healthy.
Vancouver - The Canucks brought in no nonsense, and all time post game press conference superstar, John
Tortorella to help bring some passion behind the bench. They traded Corey Schneider to New
Jersey and what's old is new again and Roberto Luongo is back starting in net. Many see the
Canucks window as closing and it well may be but if they can stay healthy, they have a lot of
talent and experience, lead by the Sedin brothers, and if the likes of David Booth and Ryan
Kessler stay healthy and perform to their abilities they should make things interesting on the
west coast.
Washington - The Capitals were up and down last seasons under new head coach Adam Oates but finished
strong and almost ousted the Rangers in the playoffs. The Caps will need captain Alex
Ovechkin to start well from the get go as well as Nick Backstrom and Mike Green. Braydon
Holtby has been solid in net and needs to continue improving for them to be a serious threat.
The loss of Mike Roberio and Mathieu Perrault means they have less depth too meaning new
comer Mikhael Grabovski will need to fill in.
Winnipeg - The Jets return to the west and look to improve upon nearly missing the post season last year.
The additions of Michael Frolik from Chicago and Devin Setoguchi from Minnesota will help to
add depth upfront where they often relied on their top guns of Ladd, Kane, Little and Wheeler
far too much last season. They will also be looking for Zack Bogosian to have a bounce back
season after an injury riddle campaign and Ondrej Pavelec to step up in goal if they hope not to
be grounded before the playoffs.
Tuesday, July 16, 2013
Back in the USSR
News of Ilya Kovalchuck's departure for the KHL shook the NHL this week. I say good riddance. I'm not a fan of Kovalchuck, nor the New Jersey Devils so when he signed there, for a ridiculous 11 years, it was that much easier for me to dislike them both. As a Sens fan the Devils cost us a cup in 2003, and the franchise has long had a habit of parlaying a dull style of hockey into success. Lou Lamrillo has an uncanny way of replacing lost talent at a sensible price and practically stole Cory Schneider from Vancouver (perhaps in an offer they couldn't refuse...) in an attempt to answer the long time question what would they do when Martin Brodeur retires? Seriously, you didn't think they were going to rely on Johan Hedberg?
Kovalchuck is an elite player and a proven goal scorer. A rare commodity and the Devils will certainly feel his loss. Combine this with Zack Parise's departure for Minnesota last season and David Clarkson signing with the Maple Leafs this summer as a free agent and the Devils are suddenly looking at a roster that's not what it once was. Speaking of which they resigned Patrick Elias, who, while a solid veteran presence, isn't the player he was and Martin Brodeur isn't getting any younger. Schneider is unproven but looks like the real deal so time will tell how that deal worked out.
Despite my distaste for him, I applaud Kovalchuck's decision to follow his heart and be closer to family and friends at home. I'm sure the estimated 15/20 mill per season didn't hurt either...To often we criticize athletes for doing it solely for the money and this doesn't seem to be the case in this circumstance. The KHL is not the NHL but is a top tier hockey league and certainly will get a lot of publicity out of a home grown star like Kovalchuck. The worry is that lots of Russian players will start to defect if you will and leave the NHL to stay back home. An odd turn of events considering not so long ago defecting from Russia carried with it a vastly different meaning and many were only to happy to get out.
With the Olympics in Sochi next year and the NHL not yet assured of attending perhaps he is simply making sure that he is there for his country, again, not a terrible thing. I'm sure many of his countrymen are feeling the same pressure and other like Alexander Ovechkin have already stated that they will attend weather the NHL goes or not. In leaving the Devils he has left a hole in their lineup and a lot of questions for their future but had apparently discussed this with GM Lou Lamarillo and was even pondering staying there and continuing to play for St. Petersburg after the lockout ended so to say they were completely caught off guard would be a big surprise.
Kovalchuck's sister has said he may return to the NHL in a few years time and I am sure he will have no trouble finding a suitor should he do so as there will always be teams looking for a guy who can finish. I wouldn't buy those season tickets just yet though...
Kovalchuck is an elite player and a proven goal scorer. A rare commodity and the Devils will certainly feel his loss. Combine this with Zack Parise's departure for Minnesota last season and David Clarkson signing with the Maple Leafs this summer as a free agent and the Devils are suddenly looking at a roster that's not what it once was. Speaking of which they resigned Patrick Elias, who, while a solid veteran presence, isn't the player he was and Martin Brodeur isn't getting any younger. Schneider is unproven but looks like the real deal so time will tell how that deal worked out.
Despite my distaste for him, I applaud Kovalchuck's decision to follow his heart and be closer to family and friends at home. I'm sure the estimated 15/20 mill per season didn't hurt either...To often we criticize athletes for doing it solely for the money and this doesn't seem to be the case in this circumstance. The KHL is not the NHL but is a top tier hockey league and certainly will get a lot of publicity out of a home grown star like Kovalchuck. The worry is that lots of Russian players will start to defect if you will and leave the NHL to stay back home. An odd turn of events considering not so long ago defecting from Russia carried with it a vastly different meaning and many were only to happy to get out.
With the Olympics in Sochi next year and the NHL not yet assured of attending perhaps he is simply making sure that he is there for his country, again, not a terrible thing. I'm sure many of his countrymen are feeling the same pressure and other like Alexander Ovechkin have already stated that they will attend weather the NHL goes or not. In leaving the Devils he has left a hole in their lineup and a lot of questions for their future but had apparently discussed this with GM Lou Lamarillo and was even pondering staying there and continuing to play for St. Petersburg after the lockout ended so to say they were completely caught off guard would be a big surprise.
Kovalchuck's sister has said he may return to the NHL in a few years time and I am sure he will have no trouble finding a suitor should he do so as there will always be teams looking for a guy who can finish. I wouldn't buy those season tickets just yet though...
Tuesday, May 14, 2013
Round 1 Wrap
Round one of the NHL Playoffs is in the books and it was anything but dull. Here's a quick recap:
Pens Taking Flight?
The Penguins hardly looked liked world beaters for most of their series with the Islanders. They were shaky on defense and Marc-Andre Fleury was even worse in net leading to Tomas Vokoun taking the reigns in goal. The young Islanders, many playing in their first post season, seemed to have answer for every challenge they faced with John Tavares leading the way, showing he truly is among the league's elite. The Pens were able to out score their defensive problems with a lethal offense and solid power play but need more consistency if they want to make a serious title run.
Bruins out of Hibernation?
The Boston Bruins looked like they would make quick work of the young Toronto Maple Leafs after a dominant 4-1 game one victory. However, they were as Claude Julien referred to them a Jekyll and Hyde team the remainder of the series. Never more evident then in their crazy game 7 comeback, though the Leafs did their own transforming act in the third. They generally struggled to find offense and James Reimer in the Toronto net was unbeatable at times. Their epic collapse not withstanding the Leafs could easily have won this series and Boston will have to get more production from the like of Tyler Seguin and Brad Marchand is they want to beat a veteran Rangers team.
Original Six, Again...
After one original six match up in round one (Toronto-Boston) we will have two in round two as aside from Rangers vs. Bruins the Chicago Blackhawks face bitter rival Detroit. The Red Wings knocked off the Anaheim Ducks in seven and are a dangerous team even if they finished well back of Chicago in the standings. The Blackhawks disposed of a scrappy Minnesota team in five games and look to make a serious cup run. This series shouldn't take long to heat up as neither team wants to lose to such a hated foe.
Canada's Team
After beating the Canadiens in five the Ottawa Senators are now the only Canadian team left in the tournament. They draw the Penguins a team that will give a young Ottawa team all it can handle, especially defensively, but with the way Craig Anderson is playing in the Ottawa goal, the Sens will not go quietly. They have veteran leadership and have gotten timely scoring so far this playoff this series shapes up to be a beauty. Oh, and there was that little incident with Mat Cooke...
California Love
The Ducks faltered but both the Sharks and defending champ Kings moved on and will face each other in round 2. The Sharks are a veteran team who looked good, at times, against Vancouver and if they can get solid goaltending from Anti Niemmi they could knock off the champs but LA is a very physical team, their series with St. Louis likely measured on the Richter scale, and have more depth. Jonathan Quick is playing very well in goal for LA and they have the experience to get the job done. They are the first defending champ to get out of the first round in several years and don't seem interested in relinquishing their reign.
Biggest Disappointment?
We'll start with Ovi. Alexander Ovechkin ended the NHL season on a tear but put up only 2 measly points in seven games as his Capitals fell to the Rangers, again. Ovechkin has put up solid numbers in the playoffs before but this is the latest failure for a team that has the talent to do more. What changes will or should be made are still debatable but they just can't seem to get the job done in Washington...seems fitting, no?
The Canucks and Ducks both went into their series as a higher seed and both failed to get the job done. Though at least Anaheim won a game. Vancouver bowed out in four straight and look to have more problems than answers moving forward. The Canucks have a lot of talent but can't seem to get it to produce in the clutch. The Sedin's were mediocre and there was very little secondary scoring beyond Ryan Kessler. They have to deal with the goaltending situation as well. In Anaheim Bruce Boudreau continues to lack playoff success. Not sure why but again his big guns, much like in Washington, didn't step up when it mattered most. What move GM Bob Murray makes we can only speculate but perhaps helping an aging D core by moving a forward may be in order, Bobby Ryan perhaps?
The Canadiens went down to the Sens in 5 in a series that was a bit off a toss up going in so the fact that either team won in 5 was a surprise but it was how they lost. Several blow out games and a lack of composure on several occasions but Brando Prust, Josh Gorges, PK Subban and Branden Gallagher showed how frustrated they were. The Habs have a lot of young talent and will be in better position than most moving forward but need to mature.
Round 2 awaits...
Pens Taking Flight?
The Penguins hardly looked liked world beaters for most of their series with the Islanders. They were shaky on defense and Marc-Andre Fleury was even worse in net leading to Tomas Vokoun taking the reigns in goal. The young Islanders, many playing in their first post season, seemed to have answer for every challenge they faced with John Tavares leading the way, showing he truly is among the league's elite. The Pens were able to out score their defensive problems with a lethal offense and solid power play but need more consistency if they want to make a serious title run.
Bruins out of Hibernation?
The Boston Bruins looked like they would make quick work of the young Toronto Maple Leafs after a dominant 4-1 game one victory. However, they were as Claude Julien referred to them a Jekyll and Hyde team the remainder of the series. Never more evident then in their crazy game 7 comeback, though the Leafs did their own transforming act in the third. They generally struggled to find offense and James Reimer in the Toronto net was unbeatable at times. Their epic collapse not withstanding the Leafs could easily have won this series and Boston will have to get more production from the like of Tyler Seguin and Brad Marchand is they want to beat a veteran Rangers team.
Original Six, Again...
After one original six match up in round one (Toronto-Boston) we will have two in round two as aside from Rangers vs. Bruins the Chicago Blackhawks face bitter rival Detroit. The Red Wings knocked off the Anaheim Ducks in seven and are a dangerous team even if they finished well back of Chicago in the standings. The Blackhawks disposed of a scrappy Minnesota team in five games and look to make a serious cup run. This series shouldn't take long to heat up as neither team wants to lose to such a hated foe.
Canada's Team
After beating the Canadiens in five the Ottawa Senators are now the only Canadian team left in the tournament. They draw the Penguins a team that will give a young Ottawa team all it can handle, especially defensively, but with the way Craig Anderson is playing in the Ottawa goal, the Sens will not go quietly. They have veteran leadership and have gotten timely scoring so far this playoff this series shapes up to be a beauty. Oh, and there was that little incident with Mat Cooke...
California Love
The Ducks faltered but both the Sharks and defending champ Kings moved on and will face each other in round 2. The Sharks are a veteran team who looked good, at times, against Vancouver and if they can get solid goaltending from Anti Niemmi they could knock off the champs but LA is a very physical team, their series with St. Louis likely measured on the Richter scale, and have more depth. Jonathan Quick is playing very well in goal for LA and they have the experience to get the job done. They are the first defending champ to get out of the first round in several years and don't seem interested in relinquishing their reign.
Biggest Disappointment?
We'll start with Ovi. Alexander Ovechkin ended the NHL season on a tear but put up only 2 measly points in seven games as his Capitals fell to the Rangers, again. Ovechkin has put up solid numbers in the playoffs before but this is the latest failure for a team that has the talent to do more. What changes will or should be made are still debatable but they just can't seem to get the job done in Washington...seems fitting, no?
The Canucks and Ducks both went into their series as a higher seed and both failed to get the job done. Though at least Anaheim won a game. Vancouver bowed out in four straight and look to have more problems than answers moving forward. The Canucks have a lot of talent but can't seem to get it to produce in the clutch. The Sedin's were mediocre and there was very little secondary scoring beyond Ryan Kessler. They have to deal with the goaltending situation as well. In Anaheim Bruce Boudreau continues to lack playoff success. Not sure why but again his big guns, much like in Washington, didn't step up when it mattered most. What move GM Bob Murray makes we can only speculate but perhaps helping an aging D core by moving a forward may be in order, Bobby Ryan perhaps?
The Canadiens went down to the Sens in 5 in a series that was a bit off a toss up going in so the fact that either team won in 5 was a surprise but it was how they lost. Several blow out games and a lack of composure on several occasions but Brando Prust, Josh Gorges, PK Subban and Branden Gallagher showed how frustrated they were. The Habs have a lot of young talent and will be in better position than most moving forward but need to mature.
Round 2 awaits...
Monday, May 13, 2013
Do or Do Not, There is no Try...
There is nothing more exciting come playoff time than a game 7 and the first round of the NHL Playoffs will see three with the last two coming tonight in Boston and Washington.
In Anaheim last night the Ducks lost 3-2 at home to the Detroit Red Wings. The Ducks lead 3-2 in the series but failed to close the deal. I can relate...This will undoubtedly continue the talks about coach Bruce Boudreau continuing to come up short in the playoffs after great regular seasons. Now personally speaking I always thought he was over rated as a coach and has always had top end talent that he has failed to get to the next level. He is whinny in interviews and doesn't seem to want to shoulder the responsibility of these defeats. In fairness he's lost to Pittsburgh who won the Cup, Montreal when Halak stole the series and now a team in Detroit with veteran leaders. But His Anaheim team is full of veteran guys, Selanne, Perry, Getzlaf, Beauchemin, Koivu who have lots of experience but failed to produce in the clutch. What happens next is anyone's guess but undoubtedly he will continue to be questioned until he make a serious run in the post season.
In Toronto the Maple Leafs, who looked liked they were going to get rolled in this series after game one, have taken the last two, in large part thanks to James Reimer, and forced a game 7 in Boston this evening. The young Leafs have given the Bruins everything they can handle and played a physical style, not afraid to work for their goals. That said goaltending has been the difference. Not that Tuuka Rask has been bad by any means, but he hasn't stolen games like Reimer. Boston needs its top line of Bergeron, Marchand and Seguin to step up if it wants to avoid the upset at home tonight as they haven't produced much of anything all series. Phil Kessel has finally shaken the monkey off his back against his former team and captain Dion Phaneuf leads his young team into unfamiliar waters tonight after atoning for his game 4 gaff with a big goal last night. Whatever happens tonight this series has gone longer than most, myself included, ever imagined.
The Washington Capitals and New York Rangers must be getting sick of seeing each other in the playoffs by now have seen each other five times in less than a decade. They play a decisive game 7 tonight in the US capital in a series where the home team has won every game. Goaltending again, will be a factor as this has been a very tight checking low scoring series for the most part. 'King' Henrik Lundqvist certainly has the experience but Braydon Holtby has looked solid in the Washington thus far. The stars in this series have yet to make a huge impact so whoever steps up tonight will be a difference maker.
In Anaheim last night the Ducks lost 3-2 at home to the Detroit Red Wings. The Ducks lead 3-2 in the series but failed to close the deal. I can relate...This will undoubtedly continue the talks about coach Bruce Boudreau continuing to come up short in the playoffs after great regular seasons. Now personally speaking I always thought he was over rated as a coach and has always had top end talent that he has failed to get to the next level. He is whinny in interviews and doesn't seem to want to shoulder the responsibility of these defeats. In fairness he's lost to Pittsburgh who won the Cup, Montreal when Halak stole the series and now a team in Detroit with veteran leaders. But His Anaheim team is full of veteran guys, Selanne, Perry, Getzlaf, Beauchemin, Koivu who have lots of experience but failed to produce in the clutch. What happens next is anyone's guess but undoubtedly he will continue to be questioned until he make a serious run in the post season.
In Toronto the Maple Leafs, who looked liked they were going to get rolled in this series after game one, have taken the last two, in large part thanks to James Reimer, and forced a game 7 in Boston this evening. The young Leafs have given the Bruins everything they can handle and played a physical style, not afraid to work for their goals. That said goaltending has been the difference. Not that Tuuka Rask has been bad by any means, but he hasn't stolen games like Reimer. Boston needs its top line of Bergeron, Marchand and Seguin to step up if it wants to avoid the upset at home tonight as they haven't produced much of anything all series. Phil Kessel has finally shaken the monkey off his back against his former team and captain Dion Phaneuf leads his young team into unfamiliar waters tonight after atoning for his game 4 gaff with a big goal last night. Whatever happens tonight this series has gone longer than most, myself included, ever imagined.
The Washington Capitals and New York Rangers must be getting sick of seeing each other in the playoffs by now have seen each other five times in less than a decade. They play a decisive game 7 tonight in the US capital in a series where the home team has won every game. Goaltending again, will be a factor as this has been a very tight checking low scoring series for the most part. 'King' Henrik Lundqvist certainly has the experience but Braydon Holtby has looked solid in the Washington thus far. The stars in this series have yet to make a huge impact so whoever steps up tonight will be a difference maker.
Wednesday, May 8, 2013
Vanquished in Van City
The Vancouver Canucks have been a Stanley Cup contender for a number of years and even went to game seven of the final two years ago before losing to Boston. That window may be closing rapidly. The job security of they coach and perhaps even management is up in the air and there's still that little goaltending conundrum to sort out.
After a four game sweep in round one of the playoffs at the hands of the San Jose Sharks, perennial underachievers themselves and a team Vancouver finished ahead of in the standings, there will undoubtedly be a lot of time to reflect. There was the switch to Cory Schneider in game three even though Roberto Luongo played solidly in the first two games and Schneider looked shaky in relief coming off injury. This may have been dictated to coach Alain Vinegault from management and may not lead to his firing. In fairness he was put in the situation of trying to balance a tricky situation in net and an anemic offense.
Don Cherry defended Luongo the other night on Coaches Corner and made some interesting points. Much like Patrick Lalime years ago in Ottawa who was blamed, fairly at times, for not being able to put them over the top Luongo has good numbers in the post season and is doing his utmost to support a team who doesn't seem able to put the puck in the other net. They have struggled offensive in their last three series against Boston in the finals and in first round losses last year to LA and this year. The Sedin's who are elite point producers haven't taken their game to another level and the supporting cast hasn't stepped up either.
Whatever happens out west it's likely at least one goalie will be gone by the time next season starts, and perhaps they won't be alone.
After a four game sweep in round one of the playoffs at the hands of the San Jose Sharks, perennial underachievers themselves and a team Vancouver finished ahead of in the standings, there will undoubtedly be a lot of time to reflect. There was the switch to Cory Schneider in game three even though Roberto Luongo played solidly in the first two games and Schneider looked shaky in relief coming off injury. This may have been dictated to coach Alain Vinegault from management and may not lead to his firing. In fairness he was put in the situation of trying to balance a tricky situation in net and an anemic offense.
Don Cherry defended Luongo the other night on Coaches Corner and made some interesting points. Much like Patrick Lalime years ago in Ottawa who was blamed, fairly at times, for not being able to put them over the top Luongo has good numbers in the post season and is doing his utmost to support a team who doesn't seem able to put the puck in the other net. They have struggled offensive in their last three series against Boston in the finals and in first round losses last year to LA and this year. The Sedin's who are elite point producers haven't taken their game to another level and the supporting cast hasn't stepped up either.
Whatever happens out west it's likely at least one goalie will be gone by the time next season starts, and perhaps they won't be alone.
Tuesday, May 7, 2013
Let's Get Ready to Rumble!!
There had been little in the way of animosity between the Ottawa Senators and Montreal Canadiens coming into this playoff series, especially when you consider they have been divisional rivals for years. They have the common enemy of the Toronto Maple Leafs and have never met in the post season, in the modern era. However all it took was one huge hit by Eric Gryba on Lars Eller in game one to ignite what is becoming a can't miss series, like watching a train wreck meeting an avalanche.
This pent up anger resulted in an all out brawl in game three's 6-1 Sens blowout and their captain Daniel Alfredsson having to play defense as there were no other bodies left. Both benches were emptier than even the rockiest marriage as there were 9 game misconducts in all. PK Subban who ran around like a punk all night, went after Kyle Turris who put up all the resistance of a rag doll and was quoted as saying 'it didn't matter if he wanted to go or not'. And Michelle Therrien called Paul MacLean classless...
Granted taking a time out with 17 seconds left wasn't exactly taking the high road, personally I didn't get it, and I understand why Therrien was upset but MacLean claims he was doing so to protect his players and would do so every time. Whether or not you you by that is up to you, but one thing is for sure, Montreal didn't conduct themselves any better. Josh Georges fired the puck at Turris as time expired and both Rene Bourque and Brendan Gallagher took cheap shots at Cory Conacher before he eventually had to fight back. Therrien's team showed little fight except for these dirty plays.
Craig Anderson let a weak one in but otherwise was stellar. Carey Price was hardly the reason his team lost but wasn't elite. He has played well and the team in front of him has let him down but they need him to make some big saves it they are going to bounce back tonight.
And just for good measure Eric Gryba checks back in after serving his two game suspension, a bogus call by the way, for decking Lars Eller in game one. Paul MacLean was asked it there would be any revenge from the Canadiens. He said he'd be interested to see. I think we all will...
This pent up anger resulted in an all out brawl in game three's 6-1 Sens blowout and their captain Daniel Alfredsson having to play defense as there were no other bodies left. Both benches were emptier than even the rockiest marriage as there were 9 game misconducts in all. PK Subban who ran around like a punk all night, went after Kyle Turris who put up all the resistance of a rag doll and was quoted as saying 'it didn't matter if he wanted to go or not'. And Michelle Therrien called Paul MacLean classless...
Granted taking a time out with 17 seconds left wasn't exactly taking the high road, personally I didn't get it, and I understand why Therrien was upset but MacLean claims he was doing so to protect his players and would do so every time. Whether or not you you by that is up to you, but one thing is for sure, Montreal didn't conduct themselves any better. Josh Georges fired the puck at Turris as time expired and both Rene Bourque and Brendan Gallagher took cheap shots at Cory Conacher before he eventually had to fight back. Therrien's team showed little fight except for these dirty plays.
Craig Anderson let a weak one in but otherwise was stellar. Carey Price was hardly the reason his team lost but wasn't elite. He has played well and the team in front of him has let him down but they need him to make some big saves it they are going to bounce back tonight.
And just for good measure Eric Gryba checks back in after serving his two game suspension, a bogus call by the way, for decking Lars Eller in game one. Paul MacLean was asked it there would be any revenge from the Canadiens. He said he'd be interested to see. I think we all will...
Wednesday, April 17, 2013
Sucker Punch? Fighting in the NHL
There are few subjects more controversial in hockey that fighting. The fact is the stats don't exactly punch you in the face either for or against getting rid of it. Nor does it confirm or deny how successful a team will be. Maple Leafs head coach as always wanted toughness and abrasive play and to his credit the Leafs are a much tougher team to play against than in years past and lead the NHL with 43, 10 more than Philadelphia another organization who favors the old fashioned game. The thing is one of these is a playoff team, barring an epic collapse, and Philly, barring a miracle, isn't. among the other league leaders are Boston, Winnipeg, Vancouver, Columbus and Tampa Bay. Several of these teams are either in the hunt or already have a spot while Tampa well, isn't. At the other end a team in Edmonton who many critics have derided as needing more girt are last with just 13 with one fewer than Detroit's 14. To counter that Chicago only have 16 and are doing just fine.
As I said, I don't have the answers and if they are to be found in the numbers, best of luck! There are those who will analyze the minutes after a shift to see what kind of impact it has and in fairness I've seen first hand on many occasions where it will pump a team up and get a sluggish outing turned around. However I've also seen it back fire by firing up the other team or taking an unnecessary penalty detrimental to the team.
Last nights Sens Hurricanes game was a fight filled affair and many of them were out of frustration but the first was between Jared Cowan and Chad LaRose after Cowan leveled Jeff Skinner, with a huge though clean hit, knocking him out of the game. LaRose gave up about seven inches and a lot of weight but stepped in to defend his teammate. I admire and applaud him for this, even if it didn't work out to his advantage. This is a part of the game that is needed to help police it. I get sick and tired of seeing it after every clean hit but when guys cross the line it's a great tool to help maintain law and order.
That said, I'm not a big fan of the staged fight or having some giant on the bench with hands of stone who's only out there to be a punching bag. I like the flow of the game and there are plenty of players with enough skill and grit to do both and those are the guys I'd want on my third and fourth lines. The main concern of course is injuries and when guys go out of their weight class they can get hurt but fights rarely result in serious injuries and while people argue players need to be protected from themselves it serves a deterrent from guys running around taking cheap shots where the real serious injuries occur. The players themselves see the game changing and I think the roll of the enforcer is slowly dying as the game gets quicker but there is still a place in the game for guys who are willing to drop them, and I say let'em at it.
As I said, I don't have the answers and if they are to be found in the numbers, best of luck! There are those who will analyze the minutes after a shift to see what kind of impact it has and in fairness I've seen first hand on many occasions where it will pump a team up and get a sluggish outing turned around. However I've also seen it back fire by firing up the other team or taking an unnecessary penalty detrimental to the team.
Last nights Sens Hurricanes game was a fight filled affair and many of them were out of frustration but the first was between Jared Cowan and Chad LaRose after Cowan leveled Jeff Skinner, with a huge though clean hit, knocking him out of the game. LaRose gave up about seven inches and a lot of weight but stepped in to defend his teammate. I admire and applaud him for this, even if it didn't work out to his advantage. This is a part of the game that is needed to help police it. I get sick and tired of seeing it after every clean hit but when guys cross the line it's a great tool to help maintain law and order.
That said, I'm not a big fan of the staged fight or having some giant on the bench with hands of stone who's only out there to be a punching bag. I like the flow of the game and there are plenty of players with enough skill and grit to do both and those are the guys I'd want on my third and fourth lines. The main concern of course is injuries and when guys go out of their weight class they can get hurt but fights rarely result in serious injuries and while people argue players need to be protected from themselves it serves a deterrent from guys running around taking cheap shots where the real serious injuries occur. The players themselves see the game changing and I think the roll of the enforcer is slowly dying as the game gets quicker but there is still a place in the game for guys who are willing to drop them, and I say let'em at it.
Monday, April 15, 2013
Tragedy in Boston
There are certain moments in life that cause us to take pause and reflect. Today in Boston we were, in the most horrifying of ways, reminded of that. An attacker set off two bombs right near the end of the Boston Marathon and as of this time at least two people are dead and dozens more are injured. Authorities are still on the scene as there may yet be more explosive devices in the area.
There is a sad irony in targeting this event in that many see a marathon or a race of this nature as a sign of hope or choose to run in such an event for a cause. CIBC hosts the run for the cure in here in Canada in order to raise money for cancer research, and countless other events use this format to raise money and awareness for great causes. They bring communities and families together and reveal the true nature of the human spirit. The fact that someone would target such an event defies any explanation, and any here in wouldn't do justice to the tragedy of it. The gamut of emotions one is forced to deal with in such a situation is something I wouldn't wish on anyone and I hope the people of Boston are able to find the help and solace they will undoubtedly need.
The NHL immediately did the right, and really only thing it could, and postponed tonight's game in Boston between the Bruins and the Ottawa Senators. According to reports the Sens will try and fly home tonight as they play here tomorrow against Carolina but given all the commotion, understandably, this may take time.
No one is sure what the days ahead will hold, what will be revealed about the attackers or why this happened, but the endless litany of question will be just that. There is no answers for some, those who suffer a loss in such a circumstance may never have peace or be able to accept it. There is no way we can understand what prompts someone act out in such a horrible and senseless manner. I can't imagine what the families must be feeling and again it is a grim reminder of the world we live in. All I can say is be grateful for small mercies and those things and people in your life for whom you live, as we can all too often take them for granted.
In closing all I can say is that my thoughts and prayers go out to you Boston, may God be with you.
There is a sad irony in targeting this event in that many see a marathon or a race of this nature as a sign of hope or choose to run in such an event for a cause. CIBC hosts the run for the cure in here in Canada in order to raise money for cancer research, and countless other events use this format to raise money and awareness for great causes. They bring communities and families together and reveal the true nature of the human spirit. The fact that someone would target such an event defies any explanation, and any here in wouldn't do justice to the tragedy of it. The gamut of emotions one is forced to deal with in such a situation is something I wouldn't wish on anyone and I hope the people of Boston are able to find the help and solace they will undoubtedly need.
The NHL immediately did the right, and really only thing it could, and postponed tonight's game in Boston between the Bruins and the Ottawa Senators. According to reports the Sens will try and fly home tonight as they play here tomorrow against Carolina but given all the commotion, understandably, this may take time.
No one is sure what the days ahead will hold, what will be revealed about the attackers or why this happened, but the endless litany of question will be just that. There is no answers for some, those who suffer a loss in such a circumstance may never have peace or be able to accept it. There is no way we can understand what prompts someone act out in such a horrible and senseless manner. I can't imagine what the families must be feeling and again it is a grim reminder of the world we live in. All I can say is be grateful for small mercies and those things and people in your life for whom you live, as we can all too often take them for granted.
In closing all I can say is that my thoughts and prayers go out to you Boston, may God be with you.
Tuesday, April 9, 2013
Playoff Push
With most teams having about nine or ten games left the sprint that was the NHL regular season is down to its last few yards. While top contenders like Chicago and Pittsburgh (with Anaheim and Montreal not far behind) have already wrapped up playoff spots, others are still up for grabs. Even the Maple Leafs look poised to return to the post season. There is now a bit more separation from teams in tenth place and down but the bottom seeds in both conferences are still looking over their shoulders.
St. Louis Blues - The Blues have been getting better goaltending from Brian Elliott of late and with a at least one game at hand on the teams below them need to stay the course to make the playoffs.
Detroit Red Wings - The Wings grip on a spot is a little more tenuous. They currently sit in eighth spot in the west, three points up on Phoenix and four ahead of the Stars, Oilers and Blue Jackets. They can't afford a skid at this point.
Ottawa Senators - What a difference a week makes. Four straight losses have the Sens once comfy cushion fade away. They are four points up on the ninth place Devils with a game at hand but can ill afford to have this streak go any longer.
New York Rangers - The Rangers have underperformed this season but are in seventh in the East tied in points with the Islanders. They have been playing better hockey of late, despite last nights loss to the Leafs, and if Henrik Lundqvist can hold the for they may get it.
New York Islanders - One of the seasons biggest surprises finds the other New York team on the verge of a playoff spot. John Tavares and company have the slimmest of margins, just a two point gap on the Devils and Jets so it will come down to the wire here.
New Jersey Devils - Last years eastern conference champs have fallen off as predicted well, here, but are still a threat to go on a run and make the playoffs. Martin Brodeur is back and the Devils are never an easy out so look for them to push hard to the end.
Winnipeg Jets/Washington Capitals - The Jets and Capitals are in the odd position of possibly being the thrid seed or right out of the playoffs. The Capitals recent streak has them two points ahead of Winnipeg for the South East Division lead but should they falter they may find themselves out of the playoffs all together.
Who gets in? Who's ticket is left unpunched?
St. Louis Blues - The Blues have been getting better goaltending from Brian Elliott of late and with a at least one game at hand on the teams below them need to stay the course to make the playoffs.
Detroit Red Wings - The Wings grip on a spot is a little more tenuous. They currently sit in eighth spot in the west, three points up on Phoenix and four ahead of the Stars, Oilers and Blue Jackets. They can't afford a skid at this point.
Ottawa Senators - What a difference a week makes. Four straight losses have the Sens once comfy cushion fade away. They are four points up on the ninth place Devils with a game at hand but can ill afford to have this streak go any longer.
New York Rangers - The Rangers have underperformed this season but are in seventh in the East tied in points with the Islanders. They have been playing better hockey of late, despite last nights loss to the Leafs, and if Henrik Lundqvist can hold the for they may get it.
New York Islanders - One of the seasons biggest surprises finds the other New York team on the verge of a playoff spot. John Tavares and company have the slimmest of margins, just a two point gap on the Devils and Jets so it will come down to the wire here.
New Jersey Devils - Last years eastern conference champs have fallen off as predicted well, here, but are still a threat to go on a run and make the playoffs. Martin Brodeur is back and the Devils are never an easy out so look for them to push hard to the end.
Winnipeg Jets/Washington Capitals - The Jets and Capitals are in the odd position of possibly being the thrid seed or right out of the playoffs. The Capitals recent streak has them two points ahead of Winnipeg for the South East Division lead but should they falter they may find themselves out of the playoffs all together.
Who gets in? Who's ticket is left unpunched?
Wednesday, April 3, 2013
Deadline Day
In what has more or less become a national holiday in the great white north the NHL trade deadline is upon us and this year may prove to be more intriguing than past for the simple reason that the shortened season has left so many teams still in it. Perhaps it should be deadline week as a number of the presumed trade bait has already snapped up but let's look at who may still be on the move.
The number of teams who don't have a shot at the playoffs is shorter than Brian Burke's temper and as a result the big moves that occasionally happen may not go down as teams aren't willing to tinker too much with their rosters. They may instead seek out depth for their roster as they make a playoff run or a rental to help push them over the top and into the playoffs rather than give up too much to go for it this year.
The salary cap falling next season will have an impact more a the NHL Draft in June, I believe, as so many teams are still in the hunt for a playoff spot that they don't want to risk missing it or send the wrong message to the players and they fans by trading away key players at a crucial time.
There are exceptions though like in Calgary where even mascot Harvey the Hound may not be safe. They shipped long time Captain and franchise player Jerome Iginla out to Pittsburgh and then sent Jay Bouwmeester to St. Louis, both for picks and prospects. It is clear they are building for the future and may not have got a lot in return for these players as of yet. GM Jay Feaster said he isn't done yet and it looks like they have more assets to deal so time will tell what they can bank moving forward. Goalie Mikka Kiprusoff has stated he will not report if traded which obviously handcuffs them but if a team can convince him they should get a decent asset in return.
The Dallas Stars are still in playoff contention but had to make some move ahead of the deadline to get rid of pending UFA'S they weren't likely to sign in Brendan Morrow, Jaromir Jagr and Derek Roy. Reports indicated that they tried and couldn't come to an agreement so GM Joe Nieuwendyk did what was in the best long term interest of the franchise and got some prospects for them. The Stars are not a big spending club and may shed more veterans in an effort to build for the future.
The Pittsburgh Penguins have made it clear they are going for it this year and despite the injury to captain Sidney Crosby who should be back around playoff time, they are a threat to win it all. They added veterans in Brendan Morrow, Jerome Iginla and douglas Murray to bolster an already loaded roster and if Marc-Andre Fleury can return to the form he displayed in their 2009 cup run they could again hoist Lord Stanley's mug.
The Anaheim Ducks are also rumored according to TSN tobe interested in making a substantial move in order to keep up with the Chicago Blackhawks in the west. GM Bob Murray is no stranger to deadline deals and so look for them to be active today.
Roberto Luongo remains one of the biggest names out there and apparently, somehow, there are four teams the Canucks are talking to, if you believe GM Dave Gillis. Whatever the situation it's clear over the last few weeks Cory Schneider has become their #1 goalie and they will roll with him into the playoffs. Where Luongo lands is still up in the air but they may wait until the summer to move him.
Where will your favorite team be standing when the dust settles?
The number of teams who don't have a shot at the playoffs is shorter than Brian Burke's temper and as a result the big moves that occasionally happen may not go down as teams aren't willing to tinker too much with their rosters. They may instead seek out depth for their roster as they make a playoff run or a rental to help push them over the top and into the playoffs rather than give up too much to go for it this year.
The salary cap falling next season will have an impact more a the NHL Draft in June, I believe, as so many teams are still in the hunt for a playoff spot that they don't want to risk missing it or send the wrong message to the players and they fans by trading away key players at a crucial time.
There are exceptions though like in Calgary where even mascot Harvey the Hound may not be safe. They shipped long time Captain and franchise player Jerome Iginla out to Pittsburgh and then sent Jay Bouwmeester to St. Louis, both for picks and prospects. It is clear they are building for the future and may not have got a lot in return for these players as of yet. GM Jay Feaster said he isn't done yet and it looks like they have more assets to deal so time will tell what they can bank moving forward. Goalie Mikka Kiprusoff has stated he will not report if traded which obviously handcuffs them but if a team can convince him they should get a decent asset in return.
The Dallas Stars are still in playoff contention but had to make some move ahead of the deadline to get rid of pending UFA'S they weren't likely to sign in Brendan Morrow, Jaromir Jagr and Derek Roy. Reports indicated that they tried and couldn't come to an agreement so GM Joe Nieuwendyk did what was in the best long term interest of the franchise and got some prospects for them. The Stars are not a big spending club and may shed more veterans in an effort to build for the future.
The Pittsburgh Penguins have made it clear they are going for it this year and despite the injury to captain Sidney Crosby who should be back around playoff time, they are a threat to win it all. They added veterans in Brendan Morrow, Jerome Iginla and douglas Murray to bolster an already loaded roster and if Marc-Andre Fleury can return to the form he displayed in their 2009 cup run they could again hoist Lord Stanley's mug.
The Anaheim Ducks are also rumored according to TSN tobe interested in making a substantial move in order to keep up with the Chicago Blackhawks in the west. GM Bob Murray is no stranger to deadline deals and so look for them to be active today.
Roberto Luongo remains one of the biggest names out there and apparently, somehow, there are four teams the Canucks are talking to, if you believe GM Dave Gillis. Whatever the situation it's clear over the last few weeks Cory Schneider has become their #1 goalie and they will roll with him into the playoffs. Where Luongo lands is still up in the air but they may wait until the summer to move him.
Where will your favorite team be standing when the dust settles?
Monday, March 25, 2013
NHL Weekend Wrap
Another weekend that was anything but dull in the NHL.
In Tampa Bay the Lightning dropped a 5-3 decision to Ottawa on Saturday then fired head coach Guy Boucher on Sunday before losing 3-2 to the Winnipeg Jets. The Lightning have underperformed this year and Steve Yzerman felt a change was necessary. The players said the right things but in watching the interviews didn't seem overly broken up about it. In fairness Boucher never had the kind of goaltending it takes to win in this league but the team was a mess defensively and should be better with the talent they have.
The Pittsburgh Penguins added another depth piece to their roster acquiring Dallas Stars captain Brendan Morrow and a third round pick for prospect, defneceman Joe Morrow and a fifth round pick. The trade will add some veteran presence and grit to the Pens line up. He is an unrestricted free agent at seasons end so may well end up being a rental. This is the kind of move Penguins GM Ray Shiero has made in the past for guys like Bill Guerin, or Hal Gill so it will be interesting to see how it plays out. Morrow is familiar with several players on the team and should help the Penguins defensively as well.
The Jerome Iginla trade talks are heating up with the Flames doing just enough not to be in the basement but still a ways out of a playoff spot and in need of a rebuild. He has apparently provided the team with a short list of teams that he would accept a trade to including Chicago, Detroit and Pittsburgh. His contract is up at the end of the season so there is again speculation he could even return after being traded as a rental ala Keith Tkachuk several years back in St. Louis. Whatever he or the team decides Calgary needs to make some move for the future and could likely get some valuable assets for him.
Cory Schneider is looking like a man who wants to stay in net after leading the Canucks to another victory in Colorado last night. The team has won four straight and Schneider's play has looked sharp. They are tied with the Wild for first in the North West thought the Wild have two games at hand, but are trending in the right direction after struggling the last few weeks.
What stood out to you?
In Tampa Bay the Lightning dropped a 5-3 decision to Ottawa on Saturday then fired head coach Guy Boucher on Sunday before losing 3-2 to the Winnipeg Jets. The Lightning have underperformed this year and Steve Yzerman felt a change was necessary. The players said the right things but in watching the interviews didn't seem overly broken up about it. In fairness Boucher never had the kind of goaltending it takes to win in this league but the team was a mess defensively and should be better with the talent they have.
The Pittsburgh Penguins added another depth piece to their roster acquiring Dallas Stars captain Brendan Morrow and a third round pick for prospect, defneceman Joe Morrow and a fifth round pick. The trade will add some veteran presence and grit to the Pens line up. He is an unrestricted free agent at seasons end so may well end up being a rental. This is the kind of move Penguins GM Ray Shiero has made in the past for guys like Bill Guerin, or Hal Gill so it will be interesting to see how it plays out. Morrow is familiar with several players on the team and should help the Penguins defensively as well.
The Jerome Iginla trade talks are heating up with the Flames doing just enough not to be in the basement but still a ways out of a playoff spot and in need of a rebuild. He has apparently provided the team with a short list of teams that he would accept a trade to including Chicago, Detroit and Pittsburgh. His contract is up at the end of the season so there is again speculation he could even return after being traded as a rental ala Keith Tkachuk several years back in St. Louis. Whatever he or the team decides Calgary needs to make some move for the future and could likely get some valuable assets for him.
Cory Schneider is looking like a man who wants to stay in net after leading the Canucks to another victory in Colorado last night. The team has won four straight and Schneider's play has looked sharp. They are tied with the Wild for first in the North West thought the Wild have two games at hand, but are trending in the right direction after struggling the last few weeks.
What stood out to you?
Wednesday, March 20, 2013
California Dreamin'
The Anaheim Ducks have signed their two biggest pending free agents in Corey Perry and Ryan Getzlaf in the past few weeks for roughly $17 a year combined. Speaking after he signed his deal Perry said he had talked to Getzlaf shortly after he had signed his and his desire for Perry to stick around was a big reason he chose to stay in California. There were a lot of rumors that he would test free agency since he had gone this long without signing as well as the fact that he may want to play closer to home in Ontario. The Ducks franchise had to step up and spend a lot of money on their stars but moving forward could they afford not to? The team has an impressive crop of young talent coming along and look to be a contender for the next few years at least. Money is obviously always a huge consideration when moving forward but you need cornerstone players like this to anchor your franchise, provide leadership as well as interest perspective free agents to your team.
Perry is from the Peterborough area and there was a lot of talk that he would possibly sign with the Leafs, or if the wishes of one crazy blogger (not saying, just saying) came true perhaps Ottawa to be closer to family and friends. This is noble sentiment and I'm sure few people would blame him for doing so. You need only look at the example of Ryan Suter and Zack Parise signing with the Minnesota Wild to see that it does happen. But in the bigger picture, would this have been a good move? Ottawa is certainly a team with a lot of talent and moving forward with a player like Perry they would likely be a contender in a year or two. There is also the previous relationship with Bryan Murray the GM who drafter him. Toronto is on the other end of the scale. Sure he knew Randy Carlyle and won a Stanley Cup with him but after his exodus from Anaheim last year who knows how Perry feels and the Leafs are certainly a ways away from being a contender. It was said that sometimes that grass isn't always greener and if you look at what Anaheim is doing this year and has the potential to do moving forward it is little wonder he'd want to stay where he is.
Perry is from the Peterborough area and there was a lot of talk that he would possibly sign with the Leafs, or if the wishes of one crazy blogger (not saying, just saying) came true perhaps Ottawa to be closer to family and friends. This is noble sentiment and I'm sure few people would blame him for doing so. You need only look at the example of Ryan Suter and Zack Parise signing with the Minnesota Wild to see that it does happen. But in the bigger picture, would this have been a good move? Ottawa is certainly a team with a lot of talent and moving forward with a player like Perry they would likely be a contender in a year or two. There is also the previous relationship with Bryan Murray the GM who drafter him. Toronto is on the other end of the scale. Sure he knew Randy Carlyle and won a Stanley Cup with him but after his exodus from Anaheim last year who knows how Perry feels and the Leafs are certainly a ways away from being a contender. It was said that sometimes that grass isn't always greener and if you look at what Anaheim is doing this year and has the potential to do moving forward it is little wonder he'd want to stay where he is.
Tuesday, March 12, 2013
Devil's Due
The New Jersey Devil's have long been one of the most consistent franchises in the NHL. They have missed the playoffs only twice since Martin Brodeur has been their backstop and the future hall of famer is still performing at a very high level, leading them to the finals last year. However, with his nagging injuries and the undefeated record of father time, the Devils will have a well, devil of a time without him moving forward. Johan Hedberg his back up is also nearing the end of the line and with his recent play that time may well be very soon indeed. This then begs the question where do they go moving forward. Lou Lamirillo has managed to keep the franchise competitive even after losing players like Scott Stevens, Scott Neidermayer and Petr Sykora to retirement or free agency. This was in large part because he still had Brodeur. No matter what the situation he seemed to keep them in games and drag them into the playoffs almost by himself . They are now at a point where they need to start thinking about their future so why not make a move now?
The LA Kings are coming off a Stanley Cup win and have two solid goaltenders one of who would like to get more playing time. That is of course back up Jonathan Bernier. Earlier in the season when Conn Smythe winner Jonathan Quick struggled Bernier stepped in and played very well. However, Quick has got his game back on track and the Kings are playing much better hockey of late so it's only natural that Bernier would like to prove himself as a full time starter. He has a cup ring so why not move on and be the man elsewhere. They only issue is that LA has nobody in the system behind these to and would need a young goalie or to sign a backup before getting rid of Bernier. He was a highly touted prospect out of junior and is showing he can play at a high level in the NHL. The Devils need to move a head and he could well be the goalie of the future. They ought to be proactive and lock down a young goalie who is proving himself before long because if their current play is any indication they need the help.
The LA Kings are coming off a Stanley Cup win and have two solid goaltenders one of who would like to get more playing time. That is of course back up Jonathan Bernier. Earlier in the season when Conn Smythe winner Jonathan Quick struggled Bernier stepped in and played very well. However, Quick has got his game back on track and the Kings are playing much better hockey of late so it's only natural that Bernier would like to prove himself as a full time starter. He has a cup ring so why not move on and be the man elsewhere. They only issue is that LA has nobody in the system behind these to and would need a young goalie or to sign a backup before getting rid of Bernier. He was a highly touted prospect out of junior and is showing he can play at a high level in the NHL. The Devils need to move a head and he could well be the goalie of the future. They ought to be proactive and lock down a young goalie who is proving himself before long because if their current play is any indication they need the help.
Monday, March 11, 2013
Coaches Corner
The NHL season is now just past the half way point and with several teams exceeding expectations we'll take a look at some of the men behind the bench who are responsible.
Paul MacLean. Ottawa Senators: The Sens surprised many last year by making the playoffs and then nearly knocking off the top seeded New York Rangers in the first round. The Sens have a young, hard working team and have responded well to their coach. they started the year off well and things looked great moving forward until the injuries began to pile up. all Stars Jason Spezza, and Erik Karlsson both out for most of the year with injuries, Milan Michalek continues to miss time with a bad knee, Jard Cowan has been out all year and Craig Anderson who still leads the league in save percentage and goals against average have all missed significant time. No one would be surprised if the team dropped off severely and they may yet stumble, but to this point they are sitting in a playoff spot because of the hard work and structured nature of their game. they are not flashy or offensively gifted but they play hard and play together and this has put MacLean on the list of candidates for the Jack Adams award.
Michel Therrien, Montreal Canadiens: Therrien returned to Montreal at a time where they was much change in the organization. New GM Marc Bergevian had to try to improve their fortunes quickly and so far the results have been great. The Habs were coming off a disappointing season finishing dead last in the east a year ago. They had injury problems and didn't seem to be playing up to their potential. A healthy Brian Gionta and Andre Markov combined with impressive rookies Alex Galchenyuk and Brendan Gallagher have helped them improve greatly. Therrien has them playing hard and with Carey Price in goal they have a lot of people in Montreal talking about a playoff run.
Bruce Boudreau, Anaheim Ducks: The Ducks had won a cup in 2007 under Randy Carlyle but whether his message wore thin or the players just lost focus, the Ducks underperformed in a big way last year. Boudreau was brought in and since that time they have been one of the best teams in the league. He has a lot of high end talent to work with, as he did in Washington, and has they Ducks looking like a contender in the west. Ryan Getzlaf, armed with a hefty new contract, and Corey Perry are having bounce back years and they continue to get production from veterans Saku Koivu and Teemu Selanne.
Randy Carlyle, Toronto Maple Leafs: Many, myself included, thought the Leafs would once again hover around a playoff spot but ultimately fall short. While that still may happen don't tell Randy Carlyle. The Leafs are becoming a much harder team to play against and have exceeded the expectations most had for them heading into this season. They have had injuries to players like Matt Fratin, Joffrey Lupul and James Reimer but other like Nazim Kadri and James Van Riemsdyk have stepped up and Phil Kessel is finally starting to get a few goals. The Leafs may not be cup contenders but they have improved their style and structure of play greatly under Carlyle.
Joel Quenville, Chicago Blackhawks: Chicago is a talented team who play hard, play well together and they are a reflection of their coaches work ethic. Quneville has guided this team to a record point streak to start the year and while he has a lot of high end talent they are also some of the hardest working two way players in the game. Hossa, Sharp and Toews all play a 200 foot game and Patrick Kane has been lighting it up offensively. The Hawks will be a contender and if Cory Crawford and Ray Emery can shoulder the load Quneville may hoist his second cup with this group.
Paul MacLean. Ottawa Senators: The Sens surprised many last year by making the playoffs and then nearly knocking off the top seeded New York Rangers in the first round. The Sens have a young, hard working team and have responded well to their coach. they started the year off well and things looked great moving forward until the injuries began to pile up. all Stars Jason Spezza, and Erik Karlsson both out for most of the year with injuries, Milan Michalek continues to miss time with a bad knee, Jard Cowan has been out all year and Craig Anderson who still leads the league in save percentage and goals against average have all missed significant time. No one would be surprised if the team dropped off severely and they may yet stumble, but to this point they are sitting in a playoff spot because of the hard work and structured nature of their game. they are not flashy or offensively gifted but they play hard and play together and this has put MacLean on the list of candidates for the Jack Adams award.
Michel Therrien, Montreal Canadiens: Therrien returned to Montreal at a time where they was much change in the organization. New GM Marc Bergevian had to try to improve their fortunes quickly and so far the results have been great. The Habs were coming off a disappointing season finishing dead last in the east a year ago. They had injury problems and didn't seem to be playing up to their potential. A healthy Brian Gionta and Andre Markov combined with impressive rookies Alex Galchenyuk and Brendan Gallagher have helped them improve greatly. Therrien has them playing hard and with Carey Price in goal they have a lot of people in Montreal talking about a playoff run.
Bruce Boudreau, Anaheim Ducks: The Ducks had won a cup in 2007 under Randy Carlyle but whether his message wore thin or the players just lost focus, the Ducks underperformed in a big way last year. Boudreau was brought in and since that time they have been one of the best teams in the league. He has a lot of high end talent to work with, as he did in Washington, and has they Ducks looking like a contender in the west. Ryan Getzlaf, armed with a hefty new contract, and Corey Perry are having bounce back years and they continue to get production from veterans Saku Koivu and Teemu Selanne.
Randy Carlyle, Toronto Maple Leafs: Many, myself included, thought the Leafs would once again hover around a playoff spot but ultimately fall short. While that still may happen don't tell Randy Carlyle. The Leafs are becoming a much harder team to play against and have exceeded the expectations most had for them heading into this season. They have had injuries to players like Matt Fratin, Joffrey Lupul and James Reimer but other like Nazim Kadri and James Van Riemsdyk have stepped up and Phil Kessel is finally starting to get a few goals. The Leafs may not be cup contenders but they have improved their style and structure of play greatly under Carlyle.
Joel Quenville, Chicago Blackhawks: Chicago is a talented team who play hard, play well together and they are a reflection of their coaches work ethic. Quneville has guided this team to a record point streak to start the year and while he has a lot of high end talent they are also some of the hardest working two way players in the game. Hossa, Sharp and Toews all play a 200 foot game and Patrick Kane has been lighting it up offensively. The Hawks will be a contender and if Cory Crawford and Ray Emery can shoulder the load Quneville may hoist his second cup with this group.
Thursday, March 7, 2013
We're Going Streaking!
Few things capture the attention of the sporting world than a great streak. Joe Dimaggio's 56 game hitting steak, Wayne Gretzky's 51 game point streak are the stuff of legends. Right now the Chicago Blackhawks and the Miami Heat are trying to write a bit of history of their own.
The Blackhawks are undefeated in regulation in their first 24 games of the season, an NHL record, and are inching closer to the 35 game record of Pat Quinn's 1979-80 Philadelphia Flyers. This is impressive territory to say the least and the Hawks ought to be commended especially coming out of a lockout. And, contrary to the beliefs of talking head, empty as it is, Stephen A Smith the NHL does NOT have ties and thus the undefeated streak is in tack. They have lost three games after regulation but have picked up at least a point in every game so far this season. What this means going forward is anyone's guess but many of the other teams to start the start the season on elongated hot steaks have gone on to hoist Lord Stanley's mug. Chicago has a lot of depth and balance across all their lines as well as a stellar blue line and solid goaltending which many, myself included, thought could be a problem. If they can keep it up in the post season there is no reason they won't be celebrating in June.
In the NBA the Heat have won 16 in a row and while they have a long way to go to get the the record 33 of the 71-72 Lakers they have been impressive nonetheless. The funny thing is that they have played to the level of their opponents during this run. They have stepped up and won big games against the likes of Oklahoma City, Houston, Chicago, the Clippers, the Lakers (maybe not so big) and narrowly beaten the lesser light of the East in Charlotte, Cleveland and Orlando. Much like the Blackhawks streak this is all well and good but LeBron James and co will only be satisfied with playoff success. They have pretty well assured they will get home court through out the eastern conference playoffs and are poised to repeat.
Which is the more impressive streak? Let me know.
The Blackhawks are undefeated in regulation in their first 24 games of the season, an NHL record, and are inching closer to the 35 game record of Pat Quinn's 1979-80 Philadelphia Flyers. This is impressive territory to say the least and the Hawks ought to be commended especially coming out of a lockout. And, contrary to the beliefs of talking head, empty as it is, Stephen A Smith the NHL does NOT have ties and thus the undefeated streak is in tack. They have lost three games after regulation but have picked up at least a point in every game so far this season. What this means going forward is anyone's guess but many of the other teams to start the start the season on elongated hot steaks have gone on to hoist Lord Stanley's mug. Chicago has a lot of depth and balance across all their lines as well as a stellar blue line and solid goaltending which many, myself included, thought could be a problem. If they can keep it up in the post season there is no reason they won't be celebrating in June.
In the NBA the Heat have won 16 in a row and while they have a long way to go to get the the record 33 of the 71-72 Lakers they have been impressive nonetheless. The funny thing is that they have played to the level of their opponents during this run. They have stepped up and won big games against the likes of Oklahoma City, Houston, Chicago, the Clippers, the Lakers (maybe not so big) and narrowly beaten the lesser light of the East in Charlotte, Cleveland and Orlando. Much like the Blackhawks streak this is all well and good but LeBron James and co will only be satisfied with playoff success. They have pretty well assured they will get home court through out the eastern conference playoffs and are poised to repeat.
Which is the more impressive streak? Let me know.
Wednesday, March 6, 2013
Enough is Enough...Time the NHL Cracked Down
Once again we find the NHL having to dole out discipline, and once again we find ourselves scratching our heads at just how they got there. Seriously, trying to guess what Brendan Shannahan will decide is like deciphering an episode of Lost. Patrick Kaleta a serial repeat offender crossed checked Brad Richards into the boards from behind last week and was thrown from the game and given a five game suspension. This is only one game more than is last suspension for head butting. He has been on the receiving end of suspensions three previous times and is a know @&#^ disturber across the league. With all that, Shannan added a whopping one game to the last suspension he was given. I like Brendan Shannahan as a player. He was tough and skilled and played the game hard. But now he's more like a puppet for the league. If the league wants to take player safety seriously, send a message. I like the decision to ban Zolnerchuck from Philly four games for his high hit to Ottawa's Mike Lundin a lot better, and it could have been more. Lundin was hurt and Richards was able to return but didn't play last night against Philly. I know injury is part of the equation but sometimes guys are just luck not to get hurt. It doesn't make the offending play any less egregious.
Take for example last Wednesday when the Leafs played the Habs and Mike Brown was tossed for hitting Josh Georges from behind. It was one of those plays that could have been two minutes, I didn't mind the major as this is the kind of hit the league needs to get out, but this was a case where the name on the back of the jersey was likely the reason. You think Kessel or Grabovski would have been tossed? There was outraged from the Leafs bench, understandably, but the bigger question here is, why put the referee in that situation? Hockey is a fast paced games and with the benefit of replay we can often look back and see reasons to mitigate punishment but at full speed they don't have that luxury so why risk it? I like the idea of being able to sort of grab a guy and hold him up a bit if you want to pin him to the boards as it is safer than running a guy which we've seen a lot of lately.
We can also look at the bizarre ruling in the Ryan Clowe case as an example of how the league needs to protect players from themselves. As I said before is Shaw was given a penalty none of that nonsense afterwards would have happened. It's up to the league, players and officials to get this thing under control for the sake of everyone involved and clean up the game and more strictly punish those who cross the line if only to get others thinking twice before they follow suit.
Take for example last Wednesday when the Leafs played the Habs and Mike Brown was tossed for hitting Josh Georges from behind. It was one of those plays that could have been two minutes, I didn't mind the major as this is the kind of hit the league needs to get out, but this was a case where the name on the back of the jersey was likely the reason. You think Kessel or Grabovski would have been tossed? There was outraged from the Leafs bench, understandably, but the bigger question here is, why put the referee in that situation? Hockey is a fast paced games and with the benefit of replay we can often look back and see reasons to mitigate punishment but at full speed they don't have that luxury so why risk it? I like the idea of being able to sort of grab a guy and hold him up a bit if you want to pin him to the boards as it is safer than running a guy which we've seen a lot of lately.
We can also look at the bizarre ruling in the Ryan Clowe case as an example of how the league needs to protect players from themselves. As I said before is Shaw was given a penalty none of that nonsense afterwards would have happened. It's up to the league, players and officials to get this thing under control for the sake of everyone involved and clean up the game and more strictly punish those who cross the line if only to get others thinking twice before they follow suit.
Wednesday, February 27, 2013
NHL News
Lots going on in the shortened season. Here's a look at a few key headlines.
We don't need no Rules: Ryan Clowe was given a two game suspension for coming off the bench and starting a fight with Andrew Shaw of the Chicago Blackhawks the other night, with about 9 seconds left in the game. The only problem: The NHL rule book calls for a ten game suspension in such cases, an attempt to eliminate the old bench clearing brawls of the 70's &80's. Brendan Shannahan, perhaps coerced by the league, deemed it a legal line change and thus no punishment was coming. Really? With that much time left? In that situation? With Joel Pavelski one of their leading scorers getting hit? I think the league and sheriff Shanny got this wrong and that they need to start taking suspensions more seriously. I also think they realized that Shaw should have been tossed for the cheap shot hit on Pavelski which lead to this and that perhaps was taken into account because the refs screwed up.
Head Hunting: Charlie Croyle of the Minnesota Wild will likely, and should, face discipline for launching himself at Matt Stajan of the Calgary Flames the other night. He targeted the head and came in high, the exact kind of hit the league as repeatedly said it's trying to get rid of. Stajan was able to return which, one can only hope will not have much impact on discipline but we shall see.
Isn't it Ironic: For the better part of a decade at the beginning of the 2000's the Ottawa Senators were a legitimate Stanley Cup contender and had a continuous run of very strong teams. Their downfall was very often, their lack of goaltending. Now when the team is without a number of star players and the season was pretty much written off, it is their goaltending that has kept them in a playoff spot. whether this continues for the next 28 games remains to be seen but it is almost laughable anyway. What Bryan Murray and John Muckler and Jacques Martin wouldn't have given for this problem back in the day.
Big Problems in Big Apple? The New York Rangers continue to struggle out of the gate and their high priced talent is underachieving. Captain Ryan Callahan has been good but Marian Gaborik, Brad Richards, Mark Stall and others haven't really produced. Rick Nash has been average and is out along with Ryan Mcdonough with injury and Henrik Lundqvist hasn't played particularly well. There is a lot of talent on this team but in a shortened season they need to pull it together quickly.
Flightless Penguin: Evgeni Malkin is out with a concussion. Not surprisingly after seeing his head whip into the boards like a rag doll. The Penguins have dealt with concussions to a super star before and can take solace in knowing that they have the right information and appropriate medical people to deal with this situation. There is no time table at present nor should there be any rush to get him back. Pittsburgh has the talent to make a run no matter where they place going into the post season.
Blackhawks Still Streaking: 19 games and counting. To say the Chicago Blackhawks have had an impressive start is like saying the Beatles were a decent band. They have look impressive grinding out close wins and getting better goaltending than many, myself included, figured they would. They have a ton of skill both upfront and on the back end and will certainly be a force to be reckoned with come playoff time.
Just Ducky: The Anaheim Ducks, much like the Montreal Canadiens last year, had an off year. To say they were a sleeper coming into this season was largely based on the fact that they didn't play well last year but on look at their roster should tell you they should have and now are playing up to and probably above expectations. This is a well rounded team still getting huge contributions from wily veterans Teemu Selanne and Saku Koivu and will be a threat in the playoffs as long as Jonas Hiller can carry the load in goal.
What caught your attention this week?
We don't need no Rules: Ryan Clowe was given a two game suspension for coming off the bench and starting a fight with Andrew Shaw of the Chicago Blackhawks the other night, with about 9 seconds left in the game. The only problem: The NHL rule book calls for a ten game suspension in such cases, an attempt to eliminate the old bench clearing brawls of the 70's &80's. Brendan Shannahan, perhaps coerced by the league, deemed it a legal line change and thus no punishment was coming. Really? With that much time left? In that situation? With Joel Pavelski one of their leading scorers getting hit? I think the league and sheriff Shanny got this wrong and that they need to start taking suspensions more seriously. I also think they realized that Shaw should have been tossed for the cheap shot hit on Pavelski which lead to this and that perhaps was taken into account because the refs screwed up.
Head Hunting: Charlie Croyle of the Minnesota Wild will likely, and should, face discipline for launching himself at Matt Stajan of the Calgary Flames the other night. He targeted the head and came in high, the exact kind of hit the league as repeatedly said it's trying to get rid of. Stajan was able to return which, one can only hope will not have much impact on discipline but we shall see.
Isn't it Ironic: For the better part of a decade at the beginning of the 2000's the Ottawa Senators were a legitimate Stanley Cup contender and had a continuous run of very strong teams. Their downfall was very often, their lack of goaltending. Now when the team is without a number of star players and the season was pretty much written off, it is their goaltending that has kept them in a playoff spot. whether this continues for the next 28 games remains to be seen but it is almost laughable anyway. What Bryan Murray and John Muckler and Jacques Martin wouldn't have given for this problem back in the day.
Big Problems in Big Apple? The New York Rangers continue to struggle out of the gate and their high priced talent is underachieving. Captain Ryan Callahan has been good but Marian Gaborik, Brad Richards, Mark Stall and others haven't really produced. Rick Nash has been average and is out along with Ryan Mcdonough with injury and Henrik Lundqvist hasn't played particularly well. There is a lot of talent on this team but in a shortened season they need to pull it together quickly.
Flightless Penguin: Evgeni Malkin is out with a concussion. Not surprisingly after seeing his head whip into the boards like a rag doll. The Penguins have dealt with concussions to a super star before and can take solace in knowing that they have the right information and appropriate medical people to deal with this situation. There is no time table at present nor should there be any rush to get him back. Pittsburgh has the talent to make a run no matter where they place going into the post season.
Blackhawks Still Streaking: 19 games and counting. To say the Chicago Blackhawks have had an impressive start is like saying the Beatles were a decent band. They have look impressive grinding out close wins and getting better goaltending than many, myself included, figured they would. They have a ton of skill both upfront and on the back end and will certainly be a force to be reckoned with come playoff time.
Just Ducky: The Anaheim Ducks, much like the Montreal Canadiens last year, had an off year. To say they were a sleeper coming into this season was largely based on the fact that they didn't play well last year but on look at their roster should tell you they should have and now are playing up to and probably above expectations. This is a well rounded team still getting huge contributions from wily veterans Teemu Selanne and Saku Koivu and will be a threat in the playoffs as long as Jonas Hiller can carry the load in goal.
What caught your attention this week?
Wednesday, February 20, 2013
Ruff Times in Buffalo
The Buffalo Sabres parted ways with long time head coach Lindy Ruff today after struggling mightily out of the gate this year. Much was expected of the Sabres who are among the top ten in the league in payroll and new owner Terry Pegula spent a lot of money on players like Tomas Vanek, Tyler Myers, Jordan Leoplod, Christian Ehrhoff and Jason Pomminville with the expectations of being a contender. Thus far, while Vanek and Pomenville have played well, the rest of the team isn't. Star goaltender Ryan Miller has been inconsistent at best and called his team out after a 4-3 loss to Pittsburgh Sunday in which they coughed up the lead late in the third period only to have the team play a stinker of a game and lose 2-1 to Winnipeg at home last night. They were booed off the ice and that proved to be the last straw as Ruff was let go earlier today. The looks on the players face said it all. They knew it was there fault and they now have to prove that they are capable of being better. Many insiders felt GM Darcy Regier's fate would be tied to Ruff's as he is the one who gave him the players to work with, but it looks like he will have a bit more time to work with though one would imagine he is on a very short leash. This is a team that has a lot of talent, on paper, but clearly hasn't lived up to anyone's expectations and the usual questions were asked. Why is that? Did they stop listening to the coach? Is it chemistry or lack there of? The answer may be all of the above. The biggest concern for the Sabres is keeping the puck out of their own net. Their defensive core has been brutal and this may have not been more evident than last night when Bryan Little was left all alone in front Ryan Miller and buried a pass from behind the net while all five Sabres defenders were almost below the blue line. Pewee teams have more structure. Where they go from here is interesting as Ruff was a well liked guy in Buffalo over his 16 years and was known for getting a lot out of a little. The new bench boss will have to get more out of his team or they could again find themselves on the outside of the playoffs looking in.
Tuesday, February 19, 2013
Sharks Biting Problem
The San Jose Sharks have been an enigma wrapped inside a conundrum stuffed inside riddle for the better part of a decade now. This is a team laden with talent and yet they can't seem to find a way to get the job done come playoff time. Much like the Ottawa Senators teams of the early 2000's the Sharks have had a lot or regular season success only to be found dead in the water come playoff time. Ottawa was eventually able to at least get to the finals, losing to Anaheim in 2007, but the Sharks have never made it past the western conference finals and unless there is dramatic improvement this year, it's a long shot. Guys like Joe Thornton, Patrick Marleau and Joe Pavelski have all put up good number (and killed more than one of my playoff pools) in the regular season but haven't got the job done when it matters. Those of us who used to believe they had what it takes, have now abandoned the notion that this is a championship team, once bitten right? They still have the like of Martin Havlat, Ryan Clowe and Logan Couture to help out the big guns but the fact is there isn't a whole lot of depth in the organization beyond these guys. No real up and comers. Dan Boyle is a proven winner winning a cup with Tampa Bay and gold at the 2010 Olympics with Canada, along with Marleau and Thornton, but he's not getting any younger. In the playoffs it's been the like of Clowe with his hard-nosed game that has put up numbers while the others have been spotty at best. If this had one been a one or two year occurrence it wouldn't be as troublesome as it is because of the consistency of it. While it's true the Sharks made it to the western conference finals two years in a row, where they did lose to good teams in Chicago (who went on the win the Stanley Cup) and Vancouver, they were unceremoniously bounced by St. Louis in the first round last year and haven't exactly played consistent enough to think they'll make a long run in the very difficult western conference this year. Their torrid 7-0 start was followed by a 1-4-3 stretch that left many asking those same old questions. Their is no doubt they have talent but the window of opportunity may have closed on this group and decision have to be made moving forward as to who Doug Wilson will keep or trade. It may be time to rebuild and trading proven stars for assets may be the only way to go. Whatever the case the Sharks will either sink or swim based on the decisions made in the next few months.
Monday, February 18, 2013
Opportunity Knocks
Opportunity is a funny thing. You never know when or how it may come about and while watching a teammate go down with an injury is certainly not, ideal that is the situation the Ottawa Senators now find themselves in. The Sens managed to beat the New Jersey Devils in a shootout this afternoon, the teams roster looking more like their AHL affiliate's in Binghampton than their opening day lineup, but with the amount of significant injuries they have such is life. The Sens are now in a very interesting situation. No body would really blame them for giving up on the season and playing for a top draft pick with their two top players out for the year, but this is a proud group who won't just bow down. That said, the results may come that way regardless. They have struggled mightily to put the puck in the net and without a big trade to upgrade the offense that doesn't look like it's about to change anytime soon. While guys like Michalek and Latendresse should be back before too long, Ottawa has to find opportunity in this difficult situation. It's a chance to give young players significant playing time in important situations and see what the team is really made of. Going forward this is great for the franchise as a whole because they can play those like Ben Bishop and others who may be traded down the line and showcase them in order to get more back for them. It will also help the development of the younger players. Obviously this fast tracked approach may not be what the club wanted but again, this is the situation at hand. By letting them learn on the job the depth and development of the team can be more accurately gauged and in a way there in now a lot less pressure. The team and it's fans know that if they don't succeed this season that it's because of injury problems. With Spezza, Karlsson and Jared Cowan all due back next year the team can look to that and hopefully the draft this year to help build moving forward and trade those pieces that can help them moving forward. This isn't a blow it up situation or a rebuild, more like a shortened season to prepare for the next one. That's not to say they should pack it in and not try to make the playoffs and the millions of dollars that would bring in for the franchise, the point is they have bigger concerns moving forward and realize that they have an opportunity to take a step towards future success by not panicking and allowing the players to learn and progress this year.
Thursday, February 7, 2013
Dogged in the Desert...Coyotes Saga Continues
The Phoenix Coyotes looked like they were about to have a new owner. They don't. Stop me when this sounds familiar. After yet another bid fell through last week to buy the struggling franchise it looks even more bleak for their future, if that's possible. Many feel that the move out of the city of Phoenix out to Glendale has hurt ticket sales but the fact remains this just isn't a solid hockey market. Sorry but it's true. If it were they wouldn't have these issues. This isn't to say there aren't some loyal fans, clearly they wouldn't have lasted this long otherwise, but the reality is this 'non-traditional' hockey market is drying up faster than the desert surrounding it and a change needs to be made. STAT.
I understand why the league is reluctant to pick up and move a franchise that's been there since the late 90's but this is really more a matter of Gary Bettman's pride and him not wanting to admit he's made a mistake rather then see the team relocate. While it's true Bettman has worked hard to keep small market franchises in locations in Canada as well as the US, none have suffered the tens of millions of dollars of losses, annually, that the Coyotes have. There is absolutely no reason to keep them there in a business sense.
Coyotes captain Shane Doan has advocated that the team stay and has voiced his concerns not only for the players but what it would mean for the people who work for the franchise as well if they pull the plug. They have families and roots and it would be very difficult. In this way he has shown the character and leadership that has made him such a great captain. But I'm sorry to say it Shane, it shouldn't matter, in a business sense. I agree that it's unfortunate for the fans and the families of those who would see the team leave but the fact is this is a business and for business reasons a change needs to be made. If someone owned a restaurant how long would you expect them to stick it out losing money? They wouldn't and they would move on. It's an unfortunate reality of today's economy and the league needs to do the same. They just fought for a new CBA to split up billions in revenue, think how much higher that would be if they moved or dare I say, contracted, several of these lame duck franchises? Gary was the one who helped push the league into America and America has clearly shown that, in parts, they don't really care about the game. This is not to say there aren't great hockey markets in the US, obviously, but Phoenix isn't one of them. In what world would the league be worse off if the team moved to Quebec City or southern Ontario? Imagine putting a team where people ACTUALLY want hockey!! Seriously. And think about what trimming a few teams would do for the overall talent in the league. So for the sake of the game and it's fans, put aside your pride Gary and do what's best for the league as you've all made it abundantly clear this is a business.
I understand why the league is reluctant to pick up and move a franchise that's been there since the late 90's but this is really more a matter of Gary Bettman's pride and him not wanting to admit he's made a mistake rather then see the team relocate. While it's true Bettman has worked hard to keep small market franchises in locations in Canada as well as the US, none have suffered the tens of millions of dollars of losses, annually, that the Coyotes have. There is absolutely no reason to keep them there in a business sense.
Coyotes captain Shane Doan has advocated that the team stay and has voiced his concerns not only for the players but what it would mean for the people who work for the franchise as well if they pull the plug. They have families and roots and it would be very difficult. In this way he has shown the character and leadership that has made him such a great captain. But I'm sorry to say it Shane, it shouldn't matter, in a business sense. I agree that it's unfortunate for the fans and the families of those who would see the team leave but the fact is this is a business and for business reasons a change needs to be made. If someone owned a restaurant how long would you expect them to stick it out losing money? They wouldn't and they would move on. It's an unfortunate reality of today's economy and the league needs to do the same. They just fought for a new CBA to split up billions in revenue, think how much higher that would be if they moved or dare I say, contracted, several of these lame duck franchises? Gary was the one who helped push the league into America and America has clearly shown that, in parts, they don't really care about the game. This is not to say there aren't great hockey markets in the US, obviously, but Phoenix isn't one of them. In what world would the league be worse off if the team moved to Quebec City or southern Ontario? Imagine putting a team where people ACTUALLY want hockey!! Seriously. And think about what trimming a few teams would do for the overall talent in the league. So for the sake of the game and it's fans, put aside your pride Gary and do what's best for the league as you've all made it abundantly clear this is a business.
Tuesday, February 5, 2013
NHL Wrap
Another weekend in the NHL and the compacted season has already had its share of surprises.
Lightning Strikes - The Lightning continue to be one of the hotter teams in the league and are running away
with the South east division. They can score goals and Anders Lindback has been solid in
his starting role. The addition of Conacher has helped Lecavalier regain some of his old
form as well.
Sharks Swarming - The San Jose Sharks are having great regular season success (Stop me when this sounds
familiar) but the real test will be to translate this great start into playoff success.
Flyers Floundering - The Flyers find themselves near the East basement and need to turn it around quickly if
they have any hope of making the playoffs.
Mr. Anderson - The Senators are getting great goaltending from Craig Anderson and will need to start
scoring more goals to help him in the wake of Jason Spezza's injury.
Capital Collapse - What is going on in Washington? I certainly didn't think the Capitals were a juggernaut but
few people imagined them struggling like this. If Adam Oates doesn't find a way to get
them going there is no telling what moves may be made.
Kessel not Running - The Leafs need Phil Kessel to get going if they have any chance at making the playoffs.
It's not for lack of effort that he hasn't scored yet but the pressure is mounting and it
is not a positive sign of things for folks in TO.
Ole Ole Ole Ole - The Habs have gotten off to a great start largely due to Carey Price, and some suspect
referring the other day, but look poised to make a push for the post season. Young
stars like Galchenyuk and Gallagher are helping the cause as are the veterans like Cole
and Markov.
Windy City - The Blackhawks are on a tear and if Cory Crawford can continue to give them solid
golatending they have enough talent in front of him to make a serious run.
Flames Burning out - Calgary has been trying to patch holes for years but it may be time to officially rebuild
like their Alberta rival. I can't see Iginla wanting to stick around for this.
Lightning Strikes - The Lightning continue to be one of the hotter teams in the league and are running away
with the South east division. They can score goals and Anders Lindback has been solid in
his starting role. The addition of Conacher has helped Lecavalier regain some of his old
form as well.
Sharks Swarming - The San Jose Sharks are having great regular season success (Stop me when this sounds
familiar) but the real test will be to translate this great start into playoff success.
Flyers Floundering - The Flyers find themselves near the East basement and need to turn it around quickly if
they have any hope of making the playoffs.
Mr. Anderson - The Senators are getting great goaltending from Craig Anderson and will need to start
scoring more goals to help him in the wake of Jason Spezza's injury.
Capital Collapse - What is going on in Washington? I certainly didn't think the Capitals were a juggernaut but
few people imagined them struggling like this. If Adam Oates doesn't find a way to get
them going there is no telling what moves may be made.
Kessel not Running - The Leafs need Phil Kessel to get going if they have any chance at making the playoffs.
It's not for lack of effort that he hasn't scored yet but the pressure is mounting and it
is not a positive sign of things for folks in TO.
Ole Ole Ole Ole - The Habs have gotten off to a great start largely due to Carey Price, and some suspect
referring the other day, but look poised to make a push for the post season. Young
stars like Galchenyuk and Gallagher are helping the cause as are the veterans like Cole
and Markov.
Windy City - The Blackhawks are on a tear and if Cory Crawford can continue to give them solid
golatending they have enough talent in front of him to make a serious run.
Flames Burning out - Calgary has been trying to patch holes for years but it may be time to officially rebuild
like their Alberta rival. I can't see Iginla wanting to stick around for this.
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