2007 seems a lifetime ago...The Ottawa Senators have been in rebuild mode the past few seasons and one of the pieces acquired in the summer of 2013 to help set the franchise moving in the right direction was Bobby Ryan. A big, powerful winger with goal scoring ability. However, from the get go, and through no fault of his own, he had a monumental task in the capital.
The Curious Case of Bobby Ryan thus begun and he was immediately tagged with the thankless task of replacing legendary captain Daniel Alfredsson. Timing is everything...The trade seemed like a knee jerk reaction to Alfredsson spurning the only NHL franchise he'd ever known and signing with the Detroit Red Wings in an effort to ride off into the sunset a Cup champion (How often does that ever really work out?) but the fact is Ottawa had long coveted Ryan and his numbers and potential were huge reasons why. Seemed a no brainer really. A young guy theoretically coming into his prime with goal scoring ability was something the Sens desperately needed. And while comparing the two isn't fair, this is a hockey market that demands results and he was expected to shoulder this load. Sentiment didn't improve when Ryan battled injury his fist season here playing in only 70 games as the Sens missed the playoffs.
Ryan had tallied four straight thirty plus goal seasons in Anaheim: 2008-09 to 2011-12. He's yet to have one with the Sens. And while it's not as though he's be awful in red, he hasn't take the step forward they needed him to. In fact some would say he's regressed. His number are respectable, earning an all star nod in 2015, but they're a far cry from what you'd expect of someone with his $7+ million dollar a year pricetag. He's battled several injuries and to his credit played though them but his lack of consistency has been a talking point across Sens country.
Kyle Turris was banged up much of last season with a sprained ankle and Clarke MacArthur missed basically all of it with a concussion and it reflected in the teams play across the board. Lines were shuffled, a number of guys were put in positions they hadn't been before and Ryan was stuck trying to find his way along with many others. It was a down year for the organization and his numbers reflected that. Turris, when healthy is a solid player and has shown this season in particular how valuable he is, looking like the number three over all pick he was, but, with all due respect, he's not Ryan Getzlaf. Bobby Ryan put up most of his stellar numbers riding shot gun with the Ducks dynamic duo of Getzlaf and Corey Perry who have each done just about everything you can when it comes to winning at this and any other level you can think of (mini-sticks included). Ryan seemed to have chemistry with Turris and MacArthur when the line was together and healthy his first few years in Ottawa so perhaps with MacArthur set to return from injury in the near future, they can recapture that if and when they're reunited. However, the Sens now have a lot more depth up front. With the emergence of young players like Ryan Dzingle, Mark Stone, Curtis Lazar, the acquisition of Derek Brassard in the off season and leading goal scorer Mike Hoffman being signed to a new contract the top six is filling up fast. The Sens are a, lets call them cap conscious, organization and carrying that hefty contract with minimal results isn't going to sit well with owner Eugene Melnyk.
Others have thrown their two sense in as well including professional grump Brian Burke who suggested that intensity was an issue in leaving Ryan off the 2014 US Olympic roster. (How'd that work out by the way?) At the time it seemed liked he was slighted but with his struggles of late, this type of questioning only lends further fuel to the fire.
The Sens have him under contract until the 2021-22 season and with a cap hit of $7.25 million through the remainder of it it's not a contract that would be easily moved off the books. And that's not to say the Sens ought to be desperate to shop him either. He seems like a decent guy who's well liked by his teammates. Perhaps fans just have to accept this is who he is. A decent player who will put up decent numbers. He certainly wouldn't be the first guy to get overpaid coming out of Anaheim (ie: Matt Beleskey) but what irks fans is the sens that there's more there. Potential, the ultimate double edged sword. The answer likely has to come from Ryan himself or in coach Guy Boucher getting him going in the right direction. And he'd better do so quickly. Ryan has battled a hand injury this season and has played on 22 games thus far but only has 8 point to show for it. (Even the much maligned Dion Phaneuf has 10) That's not a pace the Sens or he can afford to have continue. The fact that the team is off to a stellar start and playing much better in their own end of the ice has overshadowed a lot of his struggles and no doubt getting healthy is the first step, as like many goal scorers Ryan has proven himself to be streaky and when he gets hot can go on a tear but this has be far to uncommon since his acquisition. With winter now settled in up north, let's hope it's not a case of Groundhog Day all over again...
Saturday, December 10, 2016
Monday, December 5, 2016
Eastern Front: Shifting Balance of Power in NHL
The NHL season's now past the quarter pole, so we can actually put some credibility into all these power rankings as we've, theoretically, seen enough out of teams to at least half a half assed (which describes some of these rankings quite aptly) idea as to who's a contender and who may soon be looking for employment elsewhere.
For the last decade or so the West has been the dominant conference with Chicago and Los Angeles taking home five Stanley Cups between them, along with Anaheim and Detroit (pre-realignment). While Chicago and to a seemingly lesser extend LA remain contenders it's because they've adapted. The more physical brand of hockey played in the conference was said to translate better to the tighter checking, more rugged style of play employed in the post season and well, it did. These teams seemed to over match their Eastern rivals and since this is the NHL and not a MENSA meeting everyone else started to follow suit. However, like all trends this one seems to have run it course.
The Pittsburgh Penguins hoisted Lord Stanley's mug last year and did so employing tremendous speed, skill, solid goaltending and tight checking. This isn't to say they weren't capable of being physical, but they over matched their opponents with quick puck movement and pursuit.
The Power Rankings top 10 this season are predominantly comprised of Eastern teams, Montreal, New York Rangers, Pittsburgh, Washington, Ottawa, Tampa (Pre-Stamkos injury) among them. Theses teams are similar in that they've all gotten solid, or at least above average goaltending and employ a lot of pace in their game. Ironically Washington is the largest team in the league but employ a ton of high end skill in their vaunted attack. Even the teams that find themselves at the top in the West (Edmonton, Chicago, St. Louis) are teams that move the puck well and play with pace. The defending conference champs in San Jose are a great mix of skill and size exemplified by their star defenceman Brent Burns and 'Jumbo' Joe Thornton. The game has gotten younger and faster and if you can't keep up, you'd better invest in a lot of red light bulbs.
Shows like Hockey Central at Noon and others have discussed why this pattern has developed and what lead to it. Is it just a shift in balance of power that occurs every so often? Perhaps, but as mentioned its a copycat league and teams like Anaheim loaded up on big bodies to try and compete with rival LA and win the war of attrition that is the Stanley Cup playoffs. While the West won numerous cups in this fashion, the league was becoming faster and many didn't adjust accordingly. Smaller or more gifted players with finesses and speed are finding their place and those who have tailored their roster to this new breed have found success. That's not to say everyone will be playing like Team North America at the World Cup. They don't possess the overall speed and skill throughout their line ups, and there's a little thing called the salary cap to boot. Physically over matching your opponent is still vital, but its hard to hit what you can't catch. There's more of a premium placed on speed in today's game and the eastern teams seem to have found a better mix of size, speed and skill to this point. Of course, for the time being, this is just a trend...
For the last decade or so the West has been the dominant conference with Chicago and Los Angeles taking home five Stanley Cups between them, along with Anaheim and Detroit (pre-realignment). While Chicago and to a seemingly lesser extend LA remain contenders it's because they've adapted. The more physical brand of hockey played in the conference was said to translate better to the tighter checking, more rugged style of play employed in the post season and well, it did. These teams seemed to over match their Eastern rivals and since this is the NHL and not a MENSA meeting everyone else started to follow suit. However, like all trends this one seems to have run it course.
The Pittsburgh Penguins hoisted Lord Stanley's mug last year and did so employing tremendous speed, skill, solid goaltending and tight checking. This isn't to say they weren't capable of being physical, but they over matched their opponents with quick puck movement and pursuit.
The Power Rankings top 10 this season are predominantly comprised of Eastern teams, Montreal, New York Rangers, Pittsburgh, Washington, Ottawa, Tampa (Pre-Stamkos injury) among them. Theses teams are similar in that they've all gotten solid, or at least above average goaltending and employ a lot of pace in their game. Ironically Washington is the largest team in the league but employ a ton of high end skill in their vaunted attack. Even the teams that find themselves at the top in the West (Edmonton, Chicago, St. Louis) are teams that move the puck well and play with pace. The defending conference champs in San Jose are a great mix of skill and size exemplified by their star defenceman Brent Burns and 'Jumbo' Joe Thornton. The game has gotten younger and faster and if you can't keep up, you'd better invest in a lot of red light bulbs.
Shows like Hockey Central at Noon and others have discussed why this pattern has developed and what lead to it. Is it just a shift in balance of power that occurs every so often? Perhaps, but as mentioned its a copycat league and teams like Anaheim loaded up on big bodies to try and compete with rival LA and win the war of attrition that is the Stanley Cup playoffs. While the West won numerous cups in this fashion, the league was becoming faster and many didn't adjust accordingly. Smaller or more gifted players with finesses and speed are finding their place and those who have tailored their roster to this new breed have found success. That's not to say everyone will be playing like Team North America at the World Cup. They don't possess the overall speed and skill throughout their line ups, and there's a little thing called the salary cap to boot. Physically over matching your opponent is still vital, but its hard to hit what you can't catch. There's more of a premium placed on speed in today's game and the eastern teams seem to have found a better mix of size, speed and skill to this point. Of course, for the time being, this is just a trend...
Tuesday, November 22, 2016
Sens of Trouble
The Sens are off to a solid start this NHL campaign, and while they're struggling to score goals they've played much better in their own end of late and have gotten exceptional goaltending, under exceptional circumstances, from Craig Anderson and newly acquired Mike Condon. Their 10-7-3 record has them competing for a playoff spot and it's not unreasonable to think they could make it. So why does no one seem to care?
The Sens are ranked near the bottom of the league in attendance and there was a very interesting article on the Hockey Night in Canada website suggesting why this is the case. They stated several factors: long drive out to Kanata, dip in season ticket holders, ticket costs, problems with the Phoenix government pay system, rumours of a new downtown rink coming, etc. But I think the problem is much deeper rooted in Ottawa itself and its unique circumstances.
See, Ottawa is a fickle sports town to begin with, so lets start there. The city has seen two incarnations of its CFL football team fold, (RoughRiders and Renegades) and granted while those were poorly run from an ownership perspective, they couldn't be salvaged. The RedBlacks with 67's owner Jeff Hunt at the helm see to be faring much better so fingers crossed. There was also the NLL lacrosse team, the Rebel (2001-2003) few even remember the city having it was so short lived. And last but not least the AAA baseball Ottawa Lynx (1993-2007). The Lynx actually set attendance records their first few season and had a great stadium that's still there today. The team was successful and won the International league in 1995. They were affiliated with the Montreal Expos for the majority of their time and later the Baltimore Orioles the Philadelphia Phillies. The team saw its attendance drop year by year and eventually it was over. Many feel if the team were affiliated with the Blue Jays they could make a go of it in the capital but we may never know. People seem to tire of things quickly here and while there may be interest at first it fizzles out faster than a politician's promises.
This lackluster attitude is part of the problem but I think it can also be attributed to the unique circumstance of the city itself. See, Ottawa is a very nomadic city. People come from all over the country to work for the government or perhaps in what's left of the high tech sector. There are also two major universities (Carleton and U of O) as well as Algonquin College. This all adds up to a lot of people living in Ottawa who aren't from the city and who are only here for a short period of time. There isn't necessarily the connection to sports franchises that there is in other major centers. They come from out of town and likely already root for someone else. This is probably no more evident then when you go to a Sens game. It may be the strangest atmosphere in the league because at times you have to check to see which rink you're actually in. When Toronto or Montreal are in town it barely resembles a home game and the fact is many Sens fans shy away because of the problems that have arisen, fights and incidents dramatically increase when the Leafs are in town. When any other Canadian team (Oilers, Flames, Jets, Canucks) or big market US franchise (Detroit, New Your Rangers, Boston, Philly) come to town you see hundreds if not a few thousand supporters wearing other jerseys. That's not the case in other Canadian markets or most in the US. This could be in part because of where Ottawa lies. It's in between Toronto and Montreal and only came back into the league in 1992 so many in the area who grew up watching hockey were cheering for other teams. As a young kid growing up in the Ottawa Valley I chose the Sens because they were a home team. But Ottawa is a hockey town before it is a Sens town at times and this has corresponded with apathy in attendance. That and the path the franchise has taken of late.
The Sens snuck into the playoffs two years ago after Andrew 'Hamburglar' Hammond lead them on a run of historic proportions and into the playoffs. They were promptly beat out by the rival Canadiens and that was the end of that chapter. Last year they missed and this year it'll be a toss up. The glory days of Alfie, Phillips and Redden leading the charge to the 2007 Stanley Cup Finals seem not so long ago. Unfortunately they were beat by Anaheim but had been contenders for years and looked to be for a least a few more seasons. Then, they weren't. They team has struggled to find consistency ever since making the post season then missing it and never really being a threat. If you look at attendance number when they were a top team the seats were filled. Now that they've become a sort of middling team with no real sign of a breakthrough people are losing interest and the organization needs to light a fire under their fan base if they want to see the results change. Perhaps a new downtown area facility will change all that, but if the product it's any better, they won't be lining up to buy it.
The Sens are ranked near the bottom of the league in attendance and there was a very interesting article on the Hockey Night in Canada website suggesting why this is the case. They stated several factors: long drive out to Kanata, dip in season ticket holders, ticket costs, problems with the Phoenix government pay system, rumours of a new downtown rink coming, etc. But I think the problem is much deeper rooted in Ottawa itself and its unique circumstances.
See, Ottawa is a fickle sports town to begin with, so lets start there. The city has seen two incarnations of its CFL football team fold, (RoughRiders and Renegades) and granted while those were poorly run from an ownership perspective, they couldn't be salvaged. The RedBlacks with 67's owner Jeff Hunt at the helm see to be faring much better so fingers crossed. There was also the NLL lacrosse team, the Rebel (2001-2003) few even remember the city having it was so short lived. And last but not least the AAA baseball Ottawa Lynx (1993-2007). The Lynx actually set attendance records their first few season and had a great stadium that's still there today. The team was successful and won the International league in 1995. They were affiliated with the Montreal Expos for the majority of their time and later the Baltimore Orioles the Philadelphia Phillies. The team saw its attendance drop year by year and eventually it was over. Many feel if the team were affiliated with the Blue Jays they could make a go of it in the capital but we may never know. People seem to tire of things quickly here and while there may be interest at first it fizzles out faster than a politician's promises.
This lackluster attitude is part of the problem but I think it can also be attributed to the unique circumstance of the city itself. See, Ottawa is a very nomadic city. People come from all over the country to work for the government or perhaps in what's left of the high tech sector. There are also two major universities (Carleton and U of O) as well as Algonquin College. This all adds up to a lot of people living in Ottawa who aren't from the city and who are only here for a short period of time. There isn't necessarily the connection to sports franchises that there is in other major centers. They come from out of town and likely already root for someone else. This is probably no more evident then when you go to a Sens game. It may be the strangest atmosphere in the league because at times you have to check to see which rink you're actually in. When Toronto or Montreal are in town it barely resembles a home game and the fact is many Sens fans shy away because of the problems that have arisen, fights and incidents dramatically increase when the Leafs are in town. When any other Canadian team (Oilers, Flames, Jets, Canucks) or big market US franchise (Detroit, New Your Rangers, Boston, Philly) come to town you see hundreds if not a few thousand supporters wearing other jerseys. That's not the case in other Canadian markets or most in the US. This could be in part because of where Ottawa lies. It's in between Toronto and Montreal and only came back into the league in 1992 so many in the area who grew up watching hockey were cheering for other teams. As a young kid growing up in the Ottawa Valley I chose the Sens because they were a home team. But Ottawa is a hockey town before it is a Sens town at times and this has corresponded with apathy in attendance. That and the path the franchise has taken of late.
The Sens snuck into the playoffs two years ago after Andrew 'Hamburglar' Hammond lead them on a run of historic proportions and into the playoffs. They were promptly beat out by the rival Canadiens and that was the end of that chapter. Last year they missed and this year it'll be a toss up. The glory days of Alfie, Phillips and Redden leading the charge to the 2007 Stanley Cup Finals seem not so long ago. Unfortunately they were beat by Anaheim but had been contenders for years and looked to be for a least a few more seasons. Then, they weren't. They team has struggled to find consistency ever since making the post season then missing it and never really being a threat. If you look at attendance number when they were a top team the seats were filled. Now that they've become a sort of middling team with no real sign of a breakthrough people are losing interest and the organization needs to light a fire under their fan base if they want to see the results change. Perhaps a new downtown area facility will change all that, but if the product it's any better, they won't be lining up to buy it.
Sens of Trouble
The Sens are off to a solid start this NHL campaign, and while they're struggling to score goals they've played much better in their own end of late and have gotten exceptional goaltending, under exceptional circumstances, from Craig Anderson and newly acquired Mike Condon. Their 10-7-3 record has them competing for a playoff spot and it's not unreasonable to think they could make it. So why does no one seem to care?
The Sens are ranked near the bottom of the league in attendance and there was a very interesting article on the Hockey Night in Canada website suggesting why this is the case. They stated several factors: long drive out to Kanata, dip in season ticket holders, ticket costs, problems with the Phoenix government pay system, rumours of a new downtown rink coming, etc. But I think the problem is much deeper rooted in Ottawa itself and its unique circumstances.
See, Ottawa is a fickle sports town to begin with, so lets start there. The city has seen two incarnations of its CFL football team fold, (RoughRiders and Renegades) and granted while those were poorly run from an ownership perspective, they couldn't be salvaged. The RedBlacks with 67's owner Jeff Hunt at the helm see to be faring much better so fingers crossed. There was also the NLL lacrosse team, the Rebel (2001-2003) few even remember the city having it was so short lived. And last but not least the AAA baseball Ottawa Lynx (1993-2007). The Lynx actually set attendance records their first few season and had a great stadium that's still there today. The team was successful and won the International league in 1995. They were affiliated with the Montreal Expos for the majority of their time and later the Baltimore Orioles the Philadelphia Phillies. The team saw its attendance drop year by year and eventually it was over. Many feel if the team were affiliated with the Blue Jays they could make a go of it in the capital but we may never know. People seem to tire of things quickly here and while there may be interest at first it fizzles out faster than a politician's promises.
This lackluster attitude is part of the problem but I think it can also be attributed to the unique circumstance of the city itself. See, Ottawa is a very nomadic city. People come from all over the country to work for the government or perhaps in what's left of the high tech sector. There are also two major universities (Carleton and U of O) as well as Algonquin College. This all adds up to a lot of people living in Ottawa who aren't from the city and who are only here for a short period of time. There isn't necessarily the connection to sports franchises that there is in other major centers. They come from out of town and likely already root for someone else. This is probably no more evident then when you go to a Sens game. It may be the strangest atmosphere in the league because at times you have to check to see which rink you're actually in. When Toronto or Montreal are in town it barely resembles a home game and the fact is many Sens fans shy away because of the problems that have arisen, fights and incidents dramatically increase when the Leafs are in town. When any other Canadian team (Oilers, Flames, Jets, Canucks) or big market US franchise (Detroit, New Your Rangers, Boston, Philly) come to town you see hundreds if not a few thousand supporters wearing other jerseys. That's not the case in other Canadian markets or most in the US. This could be in part because of where Ottawa lies. It's in between Toronto and Montreal and only came back into the league in 1992 so many in the area who grew up watching hockey were cheering for other teams. As a young kid growing up in the Ottawa Valley I chose the Sens because they were a home team. But Ottawa is a hockey town before it is a Sens town at times and this has corresponded with apathy in attendance. That and the path the franchise has taken of late.
The Sens snuck into the playoffs two years ago after Andrew 'Hamburglar' Hammond lead them on a run of historic proportions and into the playoffs. They were promptly beat out by the rival Canadiens and that was the end of that chapter. Last year they missed and this year it'll be a toss up. The glory days of Alfie, Phillips and Redden leading the charge to the 2007 Stanley Cup Finals seem not so long ago. Unfortunately they were beat by Anaheim but had been contenders for years and looked to be for a least a few more seasons. Then, they weren't. They team has struggled to find consistency ever since making the post season then missing it and never really being a threat. If you look at attendance number when they were a top team the seats were filled. Now that they've become a sort of middling team with no real sign of a breakthrough people are losing interest and the organization needs to light a fire under their fan base if they want to see the results change. Perhaps a new downtown area facility will change all that, but if the product it's any better, they won't be lining up to buy it.
The Sens are ranked near the bottom of the league in attendance and there was a very interesting article on the Hockey Night in Canada website suggesting why this is the case. They stated several factors: long drive out to Kanata, dip in season ticket holders, ticket costs, problems with the Phoenix government pay system, rumours of a new downtown rink coming, etc. But I think the problem is much deeper rooted in Ottawa itself and its unique circumstances.
See, Ottawa is a fickle sports town to begin with, so lets start there. The city has seen two incarnations of its CFL football team fold, (RoughRiders and Renegades) and granted while those were poorly run from an ownership perspective, they couldn't be salvaged. The RedBlacks with 67's owner Jeff Hunt at the helm see to be faring much better so fingers crossed. There was also the NLL lacrosse team, the Rebel (2001-2003) few even remember the city having it was so short lived. And last but not least the AAA baseball Ottawa Lynx (1993-2007). The Lynx actually set attendance records their first few season and had a great stadium that's still there today. The team was successful and won the International league in 1995. They were affiliated with the Montreal Expos for the majority of their time and later the Baltimore Orioles the Philadelphia Phillies. The team saw its attendance drop year by year and eventually it was over. Many feel if the team were affiliated with the Blue Jays they could make a go of it in the capital but we may never know. People seem to tire of things quickly here and while there may be interest at first it fizzles out faster than a politician's promises.
This lackluster attitude is part of the problem but I think it can also be attributed to the unique circumstance of the city itself. See, Ottawa is a very nomadic city. People come from all over the country to work for the government or perhaps in what's left of the high tech sector. There are also two major universities (Carleton and U of O) as well as Algonquin College. This all adds up to a lot of people living in Ottawa who aren't from the city and who are only here for a short period of time. There isn't necessarily the connection to sports franchises that there is in other major centers. They come from out of town and likely already root for someone else. This is probably no more evident then when you go to a Sens game. It may be the strangest atmosphere in the league because at times you have to check to see which rink you're actually in. When Toronto or Montreal are in town it barely resembles a home game and the fact is many Sens fans shy away because of the problems that have arisen, fights and incidents dramatically increase when the Leafs are in town. When any other Canadian team (Oilers, Flames, Jets, Canucks) or big market US franchise (Detroit, New Your Rangers, Boston, Philly) come to town you see hundreds if not a few thousand supporters wearing other jerseys. That's not the case in other Canadian markets or most in the US. This could be in part because of where Ottawa lies. It's in between Toronto and Montreal and only came back into the league in 1992 so many in the area who grew up watching hockey were cheering for other teams. As a young kid growing up in the Ottawa Valley I chose the Sens because they were a home team. But Ottawa is a hockey town before it is a Sens town at times and this has corresponded with apathy in attendance. That and the path the franchise has taken of late.
The Sens snuck into the playoffs two years ago after Andrew 'Hamburglar' Hammond lead them on a run of historic proportions and into the playoffs. They were promptly beat out by the rival Canadiens and that was the end of that chapter. Last year they missed and this year it'll be a toss up. The glory days of Alfie, Phillips and Redden leading the charge to the 2007 Stanley Cup Finals seem not so long ago. Unfortunately they were beat by Anaheim but had been contenders for years and looked to be for a least a few more seasons. Then, they weren't. They team has struggled to find consistency ever since making the post season then missing it and never really being a threat. If you look at attendance number when they were a top team the seats were filled. Now that they've become a sort of middling team with no real sign of a breakthrough people are losing interest and the organization needs to light a fire under their fan base if they want to see the results change. Perhaps a new downtown area facility will change all that, but if the product it's any better, they won't be lining up to buy it.
Monday, November 21, 2016
Seeing Stars
The NHL released it's All Star presser for the 2017 All Star Game hosted this year by the LA Kings. The game promises the same exciting 3 on 3 tournament format as last year which, personally speaking, was a hell of a lot more entertaining than games past. The captains of the four teams, one from each division, will again be selected by fans, but the league added a slight wrinkle to who exactly can fill this role.
It's not the John Scott rule, but, well, it's the John Scott rule. As you'll recall last year career long enforcer John Scott was voted captain of the Pacific Division squad. He lead his team to victory, was named MVP and I'm sure somewhere Disney is working on the script (if not I'm available). It was a great story and I gained a ton of respect for John Scott, the way he handled himself and how the guys rallied around him. But lets be honest, it could have backfired in a big way. Truth be told it started as a joke, a fan movement to get the guy who was likely least deserving of such a nod into the game, and actually seemed sort of funny, in a frat bro sorta way. This idea gained momentum and low and behold Scott found himself voted into the game. And the league was pissed. Lets not kid ourselves, they wanted no part of this debacle and felt it was making a mockery of a game which had become in need of a boost anyway. The subsequent fall out form his trade to the Habs and demotion to the AHL seemed to seal his fate. Fans railed against this and eventually the right thing was done, he was given his shot and was a class act the whole time in the face of what could have been a PR nightmare. It was a no win situation really, until the puck was dropped and the league came up smelling like roses. The game was great and Scott asserted himself very well in leading his team to victory. This is all well and good but really, isn't what the game is all about.
Sure there's something to be said for letting a guy like Scott who would otherwise never have a chance play in this game. I was happy for him and his family, who will have this memory forever. It was touching and reminded us that sport can transcend everyday life and bring out the best in us. But the only reason it worked so well is because of the kind of guy John Scott is. An intelligent (he's an engineer) guy who understood what was going on and rolled with it. I'm not sure that would have been the case in most instances. And that's what worried the NHL. That some guy who had no business being there would look exactly like that and embarrass the league. Many argue that the game is a boring, pointless exercise anyway that many big name stars skip just to get the much needed rest, but for many it still matters.
The fact is the nature of the All Star game is being argued over by mostly, adults, when the reality of it is the people most interested in it are kids. Young fans who sit in novice or pewee dressing rooms arguing about who the best player in the league is or who'd make the strongest line combination in an All Star match up. Kids who idolize these guys, emulate their heroes and want to see top end skill face off against one another in a dynamic setting. The 3 on 3 format revitalized a game in desperate need of a boost and was as exciting as any I can remember. It showcased the skill and speed of the game and made it entertaining in ways it wasn't because the nature of it is inherently more competitive. Kids and for that matter the rest of us have no desire to see fourth line grinders out there when the true stars of the game are available. That's not to say these guys aren't an important, integral part of the league, and any championship team, but the All Star game is meant to exhibit the highest level of skill. A showcase for the elite who deserve to shine. That's the reality and while the NHL is filled with great stories and greater guys, the All Star game should be viewed as something special and an honour that you earn. There's enough participation ribbons being passed around these days, lets let the guys who deserve to have their greatness praised get the opportunity to show us why.
It's not the John Scott rule, but, well, it's the John Scott rule. As you'll recall last year career long enforcer John Scott was voted captain of the Pacific Division squad. He lead his team to victory, was named MVP and I'm sure somewhere Disney is working on the script (if not I'm available). It was a great story and I gained a ton of respect for John Scott, the way he handled himself and how the guys rallied around him. But lets be honest, it could have backfired in a big way. Truth be told it started as a joke, a fan movement to get the guy who was likely least deserving of such a nod into the game, and actually seemed sort of funny, in a frat bro sorta way. This idea gained momentum and low and behold Scott found himself voted into the game. And the league was pissed. Lets not kid ourselves, they wanted no part of this debacle and felt it was making a mockery of a game which had become in need of a boost anyway. The subsequent fall out form his trade to the Habs and demotion to the AHL seemed to seal his fate. Fans railed against this and eventually the right thing was done, he was given his shot and was a class act the whole time in the face of what could have been a PR nightmare. It was a no win situation really, until the puck was dropped and the league came up smelling like roses. The game was great and Scott asserted himself very well in leading his team to victory. This is all well and good but really, isn't what the game is all about.
Sure there's something to be said for letting a guy like Scott who would otherwise never have a chance play in this game. I was happy for him and his family, who will have this memory forever. It was touching and reminded us that sport can transcend everyday life and bring out the best in us. But the only reason it worked so well is because of the kind of guy John Scott is. An intelligent (he's an engineer) guy who understood what was going on and rolled with it. I'm not sure that would have been the case in most instances. And that's what worried the NHL. That some guy who had no business being there would look exactly like that and embarrass the league. Many argue that the game is a boring, pointless exercise anyway that many big name stars skip just to get the much needed rest, but for many it still matters.
The fact is the nature of the All Star game is being argued over by mostly, adults, when the reality of it is the people most interested in it are kids. Young fans who sit in novice or pewee dressing rooms arguing about who the best player in the league is or who'd make the strongest line combination in an All Star match up. Kids who idolize these guys, emulate their heroes and want to see top end skill face off against one another in a dynamic setting. The 3 on 3 format revitalized a game in desperate need of a boost and was as exciting as any I can remember. It showcased the skill and speed of the game and made it entertaining in ways it wasn't because the nature of it is inherently more competitive. Kids and for that matter the rest of us have no desire to see fourth line grinders out there when the true stars of the game are available. That's not to say these guys aren't an important, integral part of the league, and any championship team, but the All Star game is meant to exhibit the highest level of skill. A showcase for the elite who deserve to shine. That's the reality and while the NHL is filled with great stories and greater guys, the All Star game should be viewed as something special and an honour that you earn. There's enough participation ribbons being passed around these days, lets let the guys who deserve to have their greatness praised get the opportunity to show us why.
Thursday, July 28, 2016
Gambling on Vegas
Las Vegas Nevada, Sin City, home to the mob, casinos, showgirls and...hockey? No, you have had too many complementary cocktails, the NHL is setting up shop in Nevada. Starting in the 2017-18 season the city will see it's first major franchise settle in among the bright lights.
Logically it would have made a lot more sense to move the financial black hole that is the Coyotes out of Arizona but the $500 million dollar expansion fee the league was able to charge changed minds quicker than your paycheck vanishing at Caesar's Palace. Money talks, and few cities know this better, but the fact is the league isn't necessarily better off for it. Sure they've added a lot of money in the short term by doing so, and can pat themselves on the back for being the first major professional franchise in Vegas but what happens when nobody cares anymore?
Vegas has seen a ton of shows in its day and plenty of them close early. Is the NHL destined to follow? Sure it's shiny and new now and they've sold a lot of tickets up front but is this sustainable? Is there enough of a local fan base to keep the seats stuffed? How many of these tickets will just be handed out as a promotional tool or gift for patrons who couldn't care less, or may just not go at all? How much interest is there in hockey in one of the entertainment capitals of the world? Will it get lost among the proverbial shuffle (Fitting as it would be here) And perhaps the biggest question is what happens if there's competition from oh, say a little league we like to call the NFL! The biggest thing in American sport is looking to set up stakes in the desert (possibly relocating the nomadic Oakland Raiders) and if that happens hockey will be pushed well into the background.
The NHL will have an expansion draft after next season and while the league has instituted some new rules to help ensure the team will not be totally devoid of talent, if it's not competitive is it really going to stick? And does the league have the pucks to admit it's wrong if it doesn't? Gary Bettman has made it his mission to expand into new, 'non-traditional' hockey markets and the results have hardly hit the jackpot. The league has numerous franchises losing money in these markets and if they're not careful all they've done is dumped more fuel on that fire. The tentative name for the Vegas team is the Black Knights, here's hoping they don't have to fall on their own sword...
Logically it would have made a lot more sense to move the financial black hole that is the Coyotes out of Arizona but the $500 million dollar expansion fee the league was able to charge changed minds quicker than your paycheck vanishing at Caesar's Palace. Money talks, and few cities know this better, but the fact is the league isn't necessarily better off for it. Sure they've added a lot of money in the short term by doing so, and can pat themselves on the back for being the first major professional franchise in Vegas but what happens when nobody cares anymore?
Vegas has seen a ton of shows in its day and plenty of them close early. Is the NHL destined to follow? Sure it's shiny and new now and they've sold a lot of tickets up front but is this sustainable? Is there enough of a local fan base to keep the seats stuffed? How many of these tickets will just be handed out as a promotional tool or gift for patrons who couldn't care less, or may just not go at all? How much interest is there in hockey in one of the entertainment capitals of the world? Will it get lost among the proverbial shuffle (Fitting as it would be here) And perhaps the biggest question is what happens if there's competition from oh, say a little league we like to call the NFL! The biggest thing in American sport is looking to set up stakes in the desert (possibly relocating the nomadic Oakland Raiders) and if that happens hockey will be pushed well into the background.
The NHL will have an expansion draft after next season and while the league has instituted some new rules to help ensure the team will not be totally devoid of talent, if it's not competitive is it really going to stick? And does the league have the pucks to admit it's wrong if it doesn't? Gary Bettman has made it his mission to expand into new, 'non-traditional' hockey markets and the results have hardly hit the jackpot. The league has numerous franchises losing money in these markets and if they're not careful all they've done is dumped more fuel on that fire. The tentative name for the Vegas team is the Black Knights, here's hoping they don't have to fall on their own sword...
Wednesday, June 29, 2016
That Escalated Quickly...
Catch your breath...In what was one of the craziest days of activity not on trade deadline or free agency in the history of the NHL, All Star caliber players were being shipped around like their trading cards and another cashed in big time.
Tampa Bay GM Steve Yzerman stuck to his guns and got Steven Stamkos signed for a reasonable cap hit of $8.5 million per year (assuming you think that sort of money is reasonable for playing a game...but we digress). Stamkos was set to be the crown jewel of a deep free agent class with the like of Andrew Ladd, Kyle Okposo and David Backes set to hit the market. By getting him at this reasonable amount Yzerman has allowed himself some flexibility when it comes to signing other restricted free agents in Kilorn and Kucherov, big pieces of their playoff success the last two years.
In Montreal PK Subban was traded for fellow Canadian gold medalist Shea Weber in a move that left many searching their recently blown minds. Subban is younger and has a higher cap hit. There are many suggesting that the savings were a big issue in a cap world and can't be discounted. The issue of race has also been brought up and can't totally be ignored but is likely well down the list of issues. PK is a star in this league and an asset where ever he goes. He's also outspoken and emotional. The NHL is a league that isn't big on flashy personalities that could detract from the team, Just look at guys like Alexander Ovechkin, Brent Burns and Jeremy Roenick in his day. All have at times been question for either show boating, being eccentric or running their mouths more than they should. Rumors persisted of discontent in the locker room of which this may be a telling sign, but whatever issues there may have been there is no doubt PK contributes to an already deep blue line will be embraced in Nashville, provided they win. Shea Weber has been their franchise and I am shocked at the people who think this is a one sided deal. Weber is a Norris Trophy nominee and probably should have beat PK the year he won, an all star many times over, and a gold medal winning defenceman who played huge minutes in that tournament. His complete game is probably more polished and he posses on of the league's hardest shots. Not exactly a bag of pucks.
And as they say, thing happen in threes, so the Oilers made sure. They shipped Taylor Hall to New Jersey for defenceman Adam Larsson. With the drafting of another forward on Friday the writing seemed to be on the wall that one of their star forwards was out and Hall was tapped as the man to go. He likely brought the biggest return and signing free agent Dmen isn't much of an option this summer. Edmonton has had trouble attracting free agents anyway so this ensures they get what they desperately needed. Larsson has a big upside and this is what the Oilers and GM Pete Chiarelli are banking on. Hall is a proven commodity and should fit well with pal Adam Henrique in New Jersey. They needed to pay a price and they have. Time will tell it it pays off.
Tuesday, June 21, 2016
The Case for Conor
Breaking into any professional league is hard, never mind doing it with a floundering organization who all but sanctified you as the next one from the moment they won the #1 pick, yet again...
Conor McDavid's first NHL season was, unfortunately, cut short by injury but when he was healthy there was certainly no more dynamic rookie, hell, maybe even few other players, in the league. He averaged over a point a game (48pts. in 45 gms) and gave Oilers fans little doubt that this kid is going to be special.
And that's where the Calder conversation should focus. On what he accomplished at such a young age especially considering what he had around him. At 18 years old he was the best player on his team and many nights the best on the ice regardless. He possesses dynamic, game changing skill and speed, was a constant threat whenever he was on the ice, the focus of most opponents and I repeat is only 18!
The man many consider the favourite to take home the Calder trophy as the NHL's Rookie of the Year is Chicago Blackhawks forward Artemi Panari. And man would be the right word. He's 24 years old has has been playing professionally in Russia for years. While many may argue that the KHL isn't the NHL and that Panari put up very solid numbers this season (77pts in 80gms) he was doing so alongside the league's leading scorer in Patrick Kane, on one of the deepest and most successful teams in the league. The talent level around him on this perennial powerhouse was far superior not to mention he's been doing this for years at a professional level. 24 of those points were on the Power Play alongside a virtual All Star lineup. I understand it takes time to adjust to a new league and moreover a new culture here in North America, but bringing in a guy who is already well seasoned and giving him the edge over a true rookie is a load.
Sergi Makarov won the Calder with Calgary Flames in 1989 at the age of 31 and the rules where subsequently changed so that you now had to be under 26 to qualify for the trophy. A lot has changed since then, (Nirvana (sadly) no longer tops the charts) and the mindset of the voters should as well. It was rare that young players had the impact they do today with the obvious exceptions of top level talent like Conor McDavid. The league is getting younger and faster and while none of that is Panarin's fault awarding him over McDavid would seem to ignore this.
Other talented youngsters like the Philadelphia Flyers Shayne Gostisbehere are Buffalo Sabres Jack Eichel are among the young crop of stars to carry their team at a young age and are certainly worth of consideration as well but that if you look at impact and overall performance McDavid showed he is in a class of his own. Just ask yourself this, is there anyone of these players you'd trade for him straight up?
I realize that's forward thinking and not relative to the season past but when he was healthy McDavid was named rookie of the month for all three months he was eligible. He had more points per game than any rookie as well. This wasn't a small sample size either. He played over half the season and while he numbers may not have continued at that rate over a full 82 game schedule, it's doubtful they would have dropped off to the point where he wasn't in the hunt for leading scorer among rookies. He has talent around him (ie. Taylor Hall,) and the difference was he elevated that talent more so than his fellow nominees. We all knew what Patrick Kane could do, but Jordan Eberle put up stellar numbers along side McDavid as a direct impact of playing alongside him. His vision and puck handling ability allow him to control the game at an incredibly high level and create opportunities for whoever is on his line. He played center in the extremely physical and demanding Western Conference against much larger opponents and proved he has what it takes.
It's likely that this is all a mute point as the NHL Awards are in Las Vegas tomorrow night and that votes have already been tabulated but even if he doesn't win I can't imagine there's anyone out there who believes he's not going to be the best of this bunch.
Conor McDavid's first NHL season was, unfortunately, cut short by injury but when he was healthy there was certainly no more dynamic rookie, hell, maybe even few other players, in the league. He averaged over a point a game (48pts. in 45 gms) and gave Oilers fans little doubt that this kid is going to be special.
And that's where the Calder conversation should focus. On what he accomplished at such a young age especially considering what he had around him. At 18 years old he was the best player on his team and many nights the best on the ice regardless. He possesses dynamic, game changing skill and speed, was a constant threat whenever he was on the ice, the focus of most opponents and I repeat is only 18!
The man many consider the favourite to take home the Calder trophy as the NHL's Rookie of the Year is Chicago Blackhawks forward Artemi Panari. And man would be the right word. He's 24 years old has has been playing professionally in Russia for years. While many may argue that the KHL isn't the NHL and that Panari put up very solid numbers this season (77pts in 80gms) he was doing so alongside the league's leading scorer in Patrick Kane, on one of the deepest and most successful teams in the league. The talent level around him on this perennial powerhouse was far superior not to mention he's been doing this for years at a professional level. 24 of those points were on the Power Play alongside a virtual All Star lineup. I understand it takes time to adjust to a new league and moreover a new culture here in North America, but bringing in a guy who is already well seasoned and giving him the edge over a true rookie is a load.
Sergi Makarov won the Calder with Calgary Flames in 1989 at the age of 31 and the rules where subsequently changed so that you now had to be under 26 to qualify for the trophy. A lot has changed since then, (Nirvana (sadly) no longer tops the charts) and the mindset of the voters should as well. It was rare that young players had the impact they do today with the obvious exceptions of top level talent like Conor McDavid. The league is getting younger and faster and while none of that is Panarin's fault awarding him over McDavid would seem to ignore this.
Other talented youngsters like the Philadelphia Flyers Shayne Gostisbehere are Buffalo Sabres Jack Eichel are among the young crop of stars to carry their team at a young age and are certainly worth of consideration as well but that if you look at impact and overall performance McDavid showed he is in a class of his own. Just ask yourself this, is there anyone of these players you'd trade for him straight up?
I realize that's forward thinking and not relative to the season past but when he was healthy McDavid was named rookie of the month for all three months he was eligible. He had more points per game than any rookie as well. This wasn't a small sample size either. He played over half the season and while he numbers may not have continued at that rate over a full 82 game schedule, it's doubtful they would have dropped off to the point where he wasn't in the hunt for leading scorer among rookies. He has talent around him (ie. Taylor Hall,) and the difference was he elevated that talent more so than his fellow nominees. We all knew what Patrick Kane could do, but Jordan Eberle put up stellar numbers along side McDavid as a direct impact of playing alongside him. His vision and puck handling ability allow him to control the game at an incredibly high level and create opportunities for whoever is on his line. He played center in the extremely physical and demanding Western Conference against much larger opponents and proved he has what it takes.
It's likely that this is all a mute point as the NHL Awards are in Las Vegas tomorrow night and that votes have already been tabulated but even if he doesn't win I can't imagine there's anyone out there who believes he's not going to be the best of this bunch.
Wednesday, June 15, 2016
March of the Captain
Another NHL season over, another chapter added to Sidney Crosby's growing legend. The Penguins captain lead his team to a second Stanley Cup championship (4th in club history) something most thought would've come sooner after back to back finals appearances in 2007-08.
From the minute Mike Sullivan took over behind the Penguins bench part way through the season it seemed Crosby was on a mission and ultimately there was no stopping him. His complete 200 foot game was reminiscent of Steve Yzerman in the late 90's or contemporary Johnathan Towes during recent Blackhawks Stanley Cup runs. Detractors point out his lack of well, points, but he still put up decent numbers and would have had plenty more had Connor Sheary and Patric Hornqvist been able to hit the broad side of a barn. His puck possession and face off dominance were a sight to behold. He controlled the tempo of the game, setting up opportunity after opportunity for his line mates. Unlike certain Washington based one trick ponies, Crosby proved he has matured from his youthful, whining ways to become an all around leader and someone on whom the coaches and players could rely on in the most pivotal moments of the game.
Many a fan felt that it was sheer favoritism when Crosby was handed the Conn Smythe trophy as playoff MVP but they obviously weren't paying attention. Crosby's numbers may not have jumped off the stat sheet but his knack for clutch goals and his ability to control the play were second to none this post season. Many praise Jonathan Towes for leading the Blackhakws in a similar manner but seem reluctant to heap the same praise on Crosby because of his (well earned) past reputation as a whiner and the fact that his is so relentlessly slurped in the media. While that may be the case, the fact is he was at the top of his game and no one was more deserving.
Matt Murray was stellar in net and the ice in his veins was in better condition that San Jose's SAP rink. His efforts were an integral part of this run but Patrick Roy or Martin Brodeur he wasn't. This was not some upstart team who had no business hoisting the cup (a la Montreal 1986). Granted, he was consistently solid and clearly a much better option than wilting flower Marc-Andre Fleury, giving his team a chance to win every night. However, he never had to steal a game and was often out shone by counterparts Lundquvist, Holtby, Vasilevskiy and in particular the Sharks Martin Jones in the final, who essentially was the only reason it wasn't a sweep, Murray was a huge part of the reason they won but really was just there when called upon which ultimately was all he needed to be (think Antti Niemi with the Blackhawks circa 2009).
Phil Kessel was another Conn Smythe candidate and definitely proved his worth in the playoffs. His speed and quick shot got the job done on an incredibly productive 'third' line with beard aficionado Nick Bonino and the even speedier Carl Hagelin. If the award were give to a line, it'd likely be this one who came up with some timely goals throughout the playoffs, but no one individual really took over a series at any point and much of Kessel's damage was done on the Pens lethal power play alongside Evgeni Malkin and Crosby.
The Penguins ultimately won because of their depth and their commitment to solid defensive hockey, much of this accomplished without sacrificing in the offensive end. Their relatively unknown defense core lead by Kris Letang shut down the opposition time and time again and combined with stellar two way play from the likes of Matt Cullen and Eric Fehr they stymied everyone in their path. This buy in starts at the top with their leadership group, lead by Crosby, and trickles down throughout. The Pens frustrated the Sharks with their tight checking and shot blocking, holding the playoffs highest scoring team down most nights. The frustration was evident in Joe Pavelski, Joe Thornton, Brent Burns Logan Couture and the rest of the Sharks top players as they couldn't find a way to break through. Analysts bandy about words like compete level and sacrifice, but cliche as they are they're used for a reason. Everyone wants to win, (seriously why else would they be there?) but the Pens just seemed a step quicker or more willing than the rest.
The debate over where this leaves Crosby in the ranks of Hockey's greats will rage on but there's no doubt a second cup was needed to raise his status and reclaim his position as the best in the business...at least for today.
From the minute Mike Sullivan took over behind the Penguins bench part way through the season it seemed Crosby was on a mission and ultimately there was no stopping him. His complete 200 foot game was reminiscent of Steve Yzerman in the late 90's or contemporary Johnathan Towes during recent Blackhawks Stanley Cup runs. Detractors point out his lack of well, points, but he still put up decent numbers and would have had plenty more had Connor Sheary and Patric Hornqvist been able to hit the broad side of a barn. His puck possession and face off dominance were a sight to behold. He controlled the tempo of the game, setting up opportunity after opportunity for his line mates. Unlike certain Washington based one trick ponies, Crosby proved he has matured from his youthful, whining ways to become an all around leader and someone on whom the coaches and players could rely on in the most pivotal moments of the game.
Many a fan felt that it was sheer favoritism when Crosby was handed the Conn Smythe trophy as playoff MVP but they obviously weren't paying attention. Crosby's numbers may not have jumped off the stat sheet but his knack for clutch goals and his ability to control the play were second to none this post season. Many praise Jonathan Towes for leading the Blackhakws in a similar manner but seem reluctant to heap the same praise on Crosby because of his (well earned) past reputation as a whiner and the fact that his is so relentlessly slurped in the media. While that may be the case, the fact is he was at the top of his game and no one was more deserving.
Matt Murray was stellar in net and the ice in his veins was in better condition that San Jose's SAP rink. His efforts were an integral part of this run but Patrick Roy or Martin Brodeur he wasn't. This was not some upstart team who had no business hoisting the cup (a la Montreal 1986). Granted, he was consistently solid and clearly a much better option than wilting flower Marc-Andre Fleury, giving his team a chance to win every night. However, he never had to steal a game and was often out shone by counterparts Lundquvist, Holtby, Vasilevskiy and in particular the Sharks Martin Jones in the final, who essentially was the only reason it wasn't a sweep, Murray was a huge part of the reason they won but really was just there when called upon which ultimately was all he needed to be (think Antti Niemi with the Blackhawks circa 2009).
Phil Kessel was another Conn Smythe candidate and definitely proved his worth in the playoffs. His speed and quick shot got the job done on an incredibly productive 'third' line with beard aficionado Nick Bonino and the even speedier Carl Hagelin. If the award were give to a line, it'd likely be this one who came up with some timely goals throughout the playoffs, but no one individual really took over a series at any point and much of Kessel's damage was done on the Pens lethal power play alongside Evgeni Malkin and Crosby.
The Penguins ultimately won because of their depth and their commitment to solid defensive hockey, much of this accomplished without sacrificing in the offensive end. Their relatively unknown defense core lead by Kris Letang shut down the opposition time and time again and combined with stellar two way play from the likes of Matt Cullen and Eric Fehr they stymied everyone in their path. This buy in starts at the top with their leadership group, lead by Crosby, and trickles down throughout. The Pens frustrated the Sharks with their tight checking and shot blocking, holding the playoffs highest scoring team down most nights. The frustration was evident in Joe Pavelski, Joe Thornton, Brent Burns Logan Couture and the rest of the Sharks top players as they couldn't find a way to break through. Analysts bandy about words like compete level and sacrifice, but cliche as they are they're used for a reason. Everyone wants to win, (seriously why else would they be there?) but the Pens just seemed a step quicker or more willing than the rest.
The debate over where this leaves Crosby in the ranks of Hockey's greats will rage on but there's no doubt a second cup was needed to raise his status and reclaim his position as the best in the business...at least for today.
Wednesday, March 16, 2016
Taking the Edge Off: New NHL Goalie Equipment
The NHL has looked to increase scoring over the past several years and while I've seen a lot of 2-1 hockey games that were better than a 7-5 barn burner with all the structure of a Timbits practice I think the logical step of slimming down goalie equipment is the right move.
Shrinking the nets seems far to drastic a step and as most argue would taint the tradition and records of the past. Calling too many penalties to drum up opportunities slows things down too much and is incredibly annoying therefore the next best thing is to limit the size advantage of those blocking it. I do agree that protecting these guys is a primary concern but the size of the equipment has gone from protection to full on obstruction. Some bean polls like Ryan Miller pack on more armor than a bomb squad member and so the time has come to change this.
Look at the NHL in the 80's when thanks to teams like the Oilers goal scoring was at a premium. The men in the next were much smaller than today, like me standing beside Shaq. For a quick comparison take a look at what Patrick Roy wore in his rookie year of 1986 vs. what he had on in his final years in Colorado. Granted the rest of the league was in the same boat but it goes to show the vast difference in a relatively short time.
The modern goalie is vastly superior is speed and agility to most who played the position years ago and the athletic ability the have to have to keep the puck out is incredible. If you watch old footage of goals going in during the late 70's and 80's kids would be cut from Junior B teams for letting those shots in today. With this improved play the advantage of huge equipment is something that needed to be addressed.
That said players have also benefited from new technology and modern sticks and lighter equipment has made the game faster than ever as well has the shots more booming and lethal. The necessary safety precautions being taken this is a win win. As Sabres GM Tim Murray said the NHLPA and the league are on the same page. I think this is a move that will improve the game for all, though perhaps not most save percentages...
Shrinking the nets seems far to drastic a step and as most argue would taint the tradition and records of the past. Calling too many penalties to drum up opportunities slows things down too much and is incredibly annoying therefore the next best thing is to limit the size advantage of those blocking it. I do agree that protecting these guys is a primary concern but the size of the equipment has gone from protection to full on obstruction. Some bean polls like Ryan Miller pack on more armor than a bomb squad member and so the time has come to change this.
Look at the NHL in the 80's when thanks to teams like the Oilers goal scoring was at a premium. The men in the next were much smaller than today, like me standing beside Shaq. For a quick comparison take a look at what Patrick Roy wore in his rookie year of 1986 vs. what he had on in his final years in Colorado. Granted the rest of the league was in the same boat but it goes to show the vast difference in a relatively short time.
The modern goalie is vastly superior is speed and agility to most who played the position years ago and the athletic ability the have to have to keep the puck out is incredible. If you watch old footage of goals going in during the late 70's and 80's kids would be cut from Junior B teams for letting those shots in today. With this improved play the advantage of huge equipment is something that needed to be addressed.
That said players have also benefited from new technology and modern sticks and lighter equipment has made the game faster than ever as well has the shots more booming and lethal. The necessary safety precautions being taken this is a win win. As Sabres GM Tim Murray said the NHLPA and the league are on the same page. I think this is a move that will improve the game for all, though perhaps not most save percentages...
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