D-man (Capt. Sparrow): 82 (72)
Datsyuk (Det) G,G,A,W=6
Hossa, (Pit) G,A,W=4
A. Kostitsyn (Mtl)
Campbell, (SJ) 0
Nabokov (SJ) 0
Stoner: 82 (71)
Zetterberg (Det) G,A,W=4
Malkin (Pit) G,G,A,W=6
Michalek (SJ) 0
Markov (Mtl)
Fleury (Pit) W=1
Go Wings: 65 (61)
Thornton (SJ) 0
Streit (Mtl)
Gonchar (Pit) A,A,W=3
Hasek (Det) W=1
Michael Corleone: 62 (60)
Kovalev (Mtl)
Lidstrom (Det) A,W=2
Price (Mtl)
Kovalev Jr. (Habsfan1993): 61 (56)
Crosby (Pit) A,A,W=3
Cheechoo (SJ) 0
Rafalski (Det) A,W=2
Oooooh, P-stone is in a tie for the lead! What a powerful night Derek and Stoner had.
Montreal 1 - Philadelphia 2
Pittsburgh 3 - New York 0
Detroit 3 - Colorado 0
San Jose 0 - Dallas 3
Bride of Kovalev (making some mean leftovers): 58 (55)
Marleau (SJ) G=2
Plekanec (Mtl)
Whitney (Pit) W=1
Rivet (SJ) 0
Wednesday, April 30, 2008
Tuesday, April 29, 2008
What, Melanson worry?
I'd like to offer some analysis on what's REALLY going on in Montreal. For those of you who are wondering what the hell is wrong with Carey Price, I will offer this observation: Carey Price is, simply put, confused. This sort of thing happened earlier in the season. Price started really struggling and was sent down to Hamilton to get his game back. When he returned, he was sharper and smarter. The issue now is, why is it happening again? To figure that out, we have to look at why he was struggling, and what made him come back better.
Roland Melanson has been Montreal's goaltending coach for several years now. He made Jose Theodore and Cristobal Huet into all-stars. He emphasizes a strict Butterfly technique, with no allowance for variation. This works well for goalies of Theodore and Huet's stature. In essence, Huet and Theodore are the same goalie. Melanson relies on a combination of covering the bottom half of the net, strong lateral slides, and keeping the torso tall and upright while still playing on one's knees. Whether Melanson's teaching has merit beyond the regular season has yet to be determined--Huet and Theodore were both traded, and neither got past the second round. One strong criticism of Huet and Theodore has been that they are far too quick to go down into the butterfly, and they have trouble stopping high shots. This criticism is a direct result of Melanson's coaching.
Carey Price's regular season trouble began when he started playing more of a butterfly style. Carey Price had relied on an interesting Hybrid style of goaltending up to that point. It gave him success in Juniors, the WJC (where was the MVP), and last year's AHL championship (where he once again was MVP). He plays best when he stays upright, making his large frame fill the net, not only horizontally, but vertically as well. (An example of another goalie who plays a hybrid technique, *somewhat* effectively, is Martin Brodeur.) Carey Price has a much different body type than Huet or Theodore. Whereas Montreal's previous two all-stars were small by NHL standards, Price is a veritable giant. Price got into the NHL with a combination of sheer size advantage, combined with a cool-as-a-cucumber demeanor, and excellent positioning. Price's problem is that Rollie Melanson is trying to make him into a pure butterfly goalie. One could plainly see Price struggle when he tried to change his style this season. He started giving up weak goals, and had to go down to Hamilton to "get his game back." The real reason he go that game back was because he did not have to deal with Melanson's coaching. He started playing HIS game, and when he came back, he once again had his hybrid technique. And with that, Bob Gainey traded Huet to Washington. And Price dominated.
Now, Price is once again struggling. And the reason is DIRECTLY a result of the style he has been playing. I have been watching him play more butterfly technique, going down early on shots, and he is once again letting in weak goals. What I am seeing is Melanson breaking Price's style down completely, trying to rebuild the 20 year-old into a pure butterfly goalie. Of course, Price does not NEED to be rebuilt. His technique may need refining to compete with NHL-caliber shooters, but to completely dismantle Price's style is foolhardy and, ultimately, counterproductive.
The question is, what happens now? For starters, Price must ignore Melanson. If I were Bob Gainey, I would consider firing Melanson in the off-season. Not because Melanson is a bad coach, but because he is not the right coach for Price.
Other goalies may need to be re-trained in order to compete in the NHL, but Price already has the tools. Roland Melanson has only succeeded in confusing a potential all-star, and the damage may be irreparable before long.
Roland Melanson has been Montreal's goaltending coach for several years now. He made Jose Theodore and Cristobal Huet into all-stars. He emphasizes a strict Butterfly technique, with no allowance for variation. This works well for goalies of Theodore and Huet's stature. In essence, Huet and Theodore are the same goalie. Melanson relies on a combination of covering the bottom half of the net, strong lateral slides, and keeping the torso tall and upright while still playing on one's knees. Whether Melanson's teaching has merit beyond the regular season has yet to be determined--Huet and Theodore were both traded, and neither got past the second round. One strong criticism of Huet and Theodore has been that they are far too quick to go down into the butterfly, and they have trouble stopping high shots. This criticism is a direct result of Melanson's coaching.
Carey Price's regular season trouble began when he started playing more of a butterfly style. Carey Price had relied on an interesting Hybrid style of goaltending up to that point. It gave him success in Juniors, the WJC (where was the MVP), and last year's AHL championship (where he once again was MVP). He plays best when he stays upright, making his large frame fill the net, not only horizontally, but vertically as well. (An example of another goalie who plays a hybrid technique, *somewhat* effectively, is Martin Brodeur.) Carey Price has a much different body type than Huet or Theodore. Whereas Montreal's previous two all-stars were small by NHL standards, Price is a veritable giant. Price got into the NHL with a combination of sheer size advantage, combined with a cool-as-a-cucumber demeanor, and excellent positioning. Price's problem is that Rollie Melanson is trying to make him into a pure butterfly goalie. One could plainly see Price struggle when he tried to change his style this season. He started giving up weak goals, and had to go down to Hamilton to "get his game back." The real reason he go that game back was because he did not have to deal with Melanson's coaching. He started playing HIS game, and when he came back, he once again had his hybrid technique. And with that, Bob Gainey traded Huet to Washington. And Price dominated.
Now, Price is once again struggling. And the reason is DIRECTLY a result of the style he has been playing. I have been watching him play more butterfly technique, going down early on shots, and he is once again letting in weak goals. What I am seeing is Melanson breaking Price's style down completely, trying to rebuild the 20 year-old into a pure butterfly goalie. Of course, Price does not NEED to be rebuilt. His technique may need refining to compete with NHL-caliber shooters, but to completely dismantle Price's style is foolhardy and, ultimately, counterproductive.
The question is, what happens now? For starters, Price must ignore Melanson. If I were Bob Gainey, I would consider firing Melanson in the off-season. Not because Melanson is a bad coach, but because he is not the right coach for Price.
Other goalies may need to be re-trained in order to compete in the NHL, but Price already has the tools. Roland Melanson has only succeeded in confusing a potential all-star, and the damage may be irreparable before long.
A Very Easy Scores and Standings
D-man (Capt. Sparrow): 72
Datsyuk (Det)
Hossa, (Pit)
A. Kostitsyn (Mtl) 0
Campbell, (SJ)
Nabokov (SJ)
Stoner: 71 (70)
Zetterberg (Det)
Malkin (Pit)
Michalek (SJ)
Markov (Mtl) A=1
Fleury (Pit)
Go Wings: 61
Thornton (SJ)
Streit (Mtl) 0
Gonchar (Pit)
Hasek (Det)
Michael Corleone: 60
Kovalev (Mtl) 0
Lidstrom (Det)
Price (Mtl) 0
Kovalev Jr. (Habsfan1993): 56
Crosby (Pit)
Cheechoo (SJ)
Rafalski (Det)
Ahem. I seem to recall predicting another crap-ass performance from Price. I really hate being right. And didn't I say, at the very least, Boston would take Montreal to seven games?
In any case, Montreal's season is pretty much finished.
Watch for Bob Gainey to do absolutely NOTHING in the off-season.
Bride of Kovalev (making some mean leftovers): 55 (53)
Marleau (SJ)
Plekanec (Mtl) G=2
Whitney (Pit)
Rivet (SJ)
Datsyuk (Det)
Hossa, (Pit)
A. Kostitsyn (Mtl) 0
Campbell, (SJ)
Nabokov (SJ)
Stoner: 71 (70)
Zetterberg (Det)
Malkin (Pit)
Michalek (SJ)
Markov (Mtl) A=1
Fleury (Pit)
Go Wings: 61
Thornton (SJ)
Streit (Mtl) 0
Gonchar (Pit)
Hasek (Det)
Michael Corleone: 60
Kovalev (Mtl) 0
Lidstrom (Det)
Price (Mtl) 0
Kovalev Jr. (Habsfan1993): 56
Crosby (Pit)
Cheechoo (SJ)
Rafalski (Det)
Ahem. I seem to recall predicting another crap-ass performance from Price. I really hate being right. And didn't I say, at the very least, Boston would take Montreal to seven games?
In any case, Montreal's season is pretty much finished.
Watch for Bob Gainey to do absolutely NOTHING in the off-season.
Bride of Kovalev (making some mean leftovers): 55 (53)
Marleau (SJ)
Plekanec (Mtl) G=2
Whitney (Pit)
Rivet (SJ)
Monday, April 28, 2008
The best hockey I have been part of...
So my hockey team, Lighthouse Masonry, participated in the Chowder Cup Tournament in Marlboro over the weekend. We finished the 3 game tournament with a 3-0-1 record and locked up the 2nd seed of 8 teams, with the top four advancing.
In the semi finals, we faced the same team that we had tied in the first game, 3-3. Mind you the divisiion that we are in is a high school level experienced only level and no one with college experience can play within this division. This team that we played had 5 kids on their team wearing Fitchberg Falcons helmets, and gloves (Fitchberg is a dIII school)!!!
Anyway, this semi final matchup was probably the best game that I have ever watched, or played in. WIth less than 3 minutes left in the game, we trailed 3-1, and we just took a penalaty (NOTE: you will NEVER get calls to go your way when you play up here against the home team), and we looked all but done. But this team has had a 'never say die' attitude all year long and we were able to score not one, but TWO shorthanded goals to force an over time.
Over time was a full 12 minute period and quality chances were traded throughout but the extra time was able to settle nothing.
The game had to be decided by a shootout. We shot first due to rules that stated the team the scored last had to shoot first, even though we were considered the home team (better record). The first 3 shooters for both teams went like this:
Lighthouse: X-G-X
Triboro: G-X-X
Then after another 5 rounds, Triboro's dIII college ringer was able to slip on past the glove of our goaltender (Eric for those of you who know him), and send us packing. They went on to the finals and easily destroyed the other team, 5-1. It sucks losing like that to a quote unquote "illegal team", but at the same time you don't want to go complain and win like that. That was the most exciting game I have ever been in and even though being on the losing end absolutely sucks, I do not mind going out like that.
In the semi finals, we faced the same team that we had tied in the first game, 3-3. Mind you the divisiion that we are in is a high school level experienced only level and no one with college experience can play within this division. This team that we played had 5 kids on their team wearing Fitchberg Falcons helmets, and gloves (Fitchberg is a dIII school)!!!
Anyway, this semi final matchup was probably the best game that I have ever watched, or played in. WIth less than 3 minutes left in the game, we trailed 3-1, and we just took a penalaty (NOTE: you will NEVER get calls to go your way when you play up here against the home team), and we looked all but done. But this team has had a 'never say die' attitude all year long and we were able to score not one, but TWO shorthanded goals to force an over time.
Over time was a full 12 minute period and quality chances were traded throughout but the extra time was able to settle nothing.
The game had to be decided by a shootout. We shot first due to rules that stated the team the scored last had to shoot first, even though we were considered the home team (better record). The first 3 shooters for both teams went like this:
Lighthouse: X-G-X
Triboro: G-X-X
Then after another 5 rounds, Triboro's dIII college ringer was able to slip on past the glove of our goaltender (Eric for those of you who know him), and send us packing. They went on to the finals and easily destroyed the other team, 5-1. It sucks losing like that to a quote unquote "illegal team", but at the same time you don't want to go complain and win like that. That was the most exciting game I have ever been in and even though being on the losing end absolutely sucks, I do not mind going out like that.
Scores and Standings
D-man (Capt. Sparrow): 72 (70)
Datsyuk (Det)
Hossa, (Pit) W=1
A. Kostitsyn (Mtl)
Campbell, (SJ) A=1
Nabokov (SJ) 0
Stoner: 70 (64)
Zetterberg (Det)
Malkin (Pit) A,W=2
Michalek (SJ) G=2
Markov (Mtl)
Fleury (Pit) SO=2
Go Wings: 61 (59)
Thornton (SJ) 0
Streit (Mtl)
Gonchar (Pit) A,W=2
Hasek (Det)
Michael Corleone: 60
Kovalev (Mtl)
Lidstrom (Det)
Price (Mtl)
Kovalev Jr. (Habsfan1993): 56 (54)
Crosby (Pit) W=1
Cheechoo (SJ) A=1
Rafalski (Det)
Yes, P-stone, you were right. I shorted Michalek one goal--that has been rectified. San Jose once again disappoints in the playoffs, and I now think Dallas will win the West. Only game tonight is Habs-Flyers. And I stand by my assessment of Price. He seems to be cracking under the pressure. We'll see if he has another bad outing tonight.
Bride of Kovalev (making some mean leftovers): 53 (49)
Marleau (SJ) 0
Plekanec (Mtl)
Whitney (Pit) A,W=2
Rivet (SJ) A,A=2
Datsyuk (Det)
Hossa, (Pit) W=1
A. Kostitsyn (Mtl)
Campbell, (SJ) A=1
Nabokov (SJ) 0
Stoner: 70 (64)
Zetterberg (Det)
Malkin (Pit) A,W=2
Michalek (SJ) G=2
Markov (Mtl)
Fleury (Pit) SO=2
Go Wings: 61 (59)
Thornton (SJ) 0
Streit (Mtl)
Gonchar (Pit) A,W=2
Hasek (Det)
Michael Corleone: 60
Kovalev (Mtl)
Lidstrom (Det)
Price (Mtl)
Kovalev Jr. (Habsfan1993): 56 (54)
Crosby (Pit) W=1
Cheechoo (SJ) A=1
Rafalski (Det)
Yes, P-stone, you were right. I shorted Michalek one goal--that has been rectified. San Jose once again disappoints in the playoffs, and I now think Dallas will win the West. Only game tonight is Habs-Flyers. And I stand by my assessment of Price. He seems to be cracking under the pressure. We'll see if he has another bad outing tonight.
Bride of Kovalev (making some mean leftovers): 53 (49)
Marleau (SJ) 0
Plekanec (Mtl)
Whitney (Pit) A,W=2
Rivet (SJ) A,A=2
Sunday, April 27, 2008
Memo to Carey Price: Stop the effing puck
Montreal seems to be suffering from a complete inability to operate at %100 efficiency. With the exception of game 7 against Boston, Montreal has had some parts of the team working well, while other parts have been garbage. If the offense is clicking, the defense is crap. If the defense is limiting the opposition's chances, the offense and the powerplay are out to lunch. Last night, Carey Price lost the game to the Flyers. I know Martin Biron played very well, and absolutely robbed the Habs of some chances, but I'm nto about to give him credit for this game.
Carey Price does not deserve to be compared with Patrick Roy and Ken Dryden. His glove hand seems to have been exposed as a fatally flawed part of his game. He was not "mediocre" as some have diplomatically put it. He was terrible. The first two Flyers goal, and the Briere goal as well (though Markov shares some blame and needs to stop being demonstrably worse than Patrice Brisebois) were horrible, terrible goals that even Andre Racicot should have stopped.
Montreal gave a wondeful effort against the Flyers last night. They outshot the Flyers by an incredible margin, and in my eyes, controlled the play from start to finish. All that means jack squat if your goalie can't make saves your grandmother could make whilst wearing her goddamn mumu.
My problem with this goes beyond a simple bad game. Good goalies shrug it off. Carey Price, in response to a five-goal shitting-of-the-bed in game 5 against Boston, proceeded to further soil the aforementioned bed with another five goal performance. That may be well and good against the hapless Bruins who cannot seem to overcome some sort of voodoo hex against the Habs, but against other teams, in later stagers of the playoffs, this is lethal. Carey Price looks beyond average to me. He looks out of place. Yes, Plekanec cannot seem to buy a goal, but Carey Price cannot seem to make even the simplest saves. At least PLekanec is playing well enough to get the chances he has. Price has failed to do even the simplest things for an alarming amount of time this spring. Until he can, he is as good as yet another also-ran in the long string of disappointments that have played between the pipes since 1995.
Carey Price does not deserve to be compared with Patrick Roy and Ken Dryden. His glove hand seems to have been exposed as a fatally flawed part of his game. He was not "mediocre" as some have diplomatically put it. He was terrible. The first two Flyers goal, and the Briere goal as well (though Markov shares some blame and needs to stop being demonstrably worse than Patrice Brisebois) were horrible, terrible goals that even Andre Racicot should have stopped.
Montreal gave a wondeful effort against the Flyers last night. They outshot the Flyers by an incredible margin, and in my eyes, controlled the play from start to finish. All that means jack squat if your goalie can't make saves your grandmother could make whilst wearing her goddamn mumu.
My problem with this goes beyond a simple bad game. Good goalies shrug it off. Carey Price, in response to a five-goal shitting-of-the-bed in game 5 against Boston, proceeded to further soil the aforementioned bed with another five goal performance. That may be well and good against the hapless Bruins who cannot seem to overcome some sort of voodoo hex against the Habs, but against other teams, in later stagers of the playoffs, this is lethal. Carey Price looks beyond average to me. He looks out of place. Yes, Plekanec cannot seem to buy a goal, but Carey Price cannot seem to make even the simplest saves. At least PLekanec is playing well enough to get the chances he has. Price has failed to do even the simplest things for an alarming amount of time this spring. Until he can, he is as good as yet another also-ran in the long string of disappointments that have played between the pipes since 1995.
Scores and Standings
D-man (Capt. Sparrow): 70 (68)
Datsyuk (Det) A,W=2
Hossa, (Pit)
A. Kostitsyn (Mtl) 0
Campbell, (SJ)
Nabokov (SJ)
Stoner: 64 (58)
Zetterberg (Det) G,A,W=4
Malkin (Pit)
Michalek (SJ)
Markov (Mtl) G=2
Fleury (Pit)
Michael Corleone: 60 (57)
Kovalev (Mtl) A=1
Lidstrom (Det) A,W=2
Price (Mtl) 0
Go Wings: 59 (57)
Thornton (SJ)
Streit (Mtl) A=1
Gonchar (Pit)
Hasek (Det) W=1
Kovalev Jr. (Habsfan1993): 54 (53)
Crosby (Pit)
Cheechoo (SJ)
Rafalski (Det) W=1
More to follow, much snarkiness shall ensue. Who the hell is Johan Franzen and why did he not tell me he was going to be AWESOME this year?
Montreal 1 - Philadelphia 1
Pittsburgh 1 - New York 0
Detroit 2 - Colorado 0
San Jose 0 - Dallas 1
Bride of Kovalev (making some mean leftovers): 49
Marleau (SJ)
Plekanec (Mtl) 0
Whitney (Pit)
Rivet (SJ)
Datsyuk (Det) A,W=2
Hossa, (Pit)
A. Kostitsyn (Mtl) 0
Campbell, (SJ)
Nabokov (SJ)
Stoner: 64 (58)
Zetterberg (Det) G,A,W=4
Malkin (Pit)
Michalek (SJ)
Markov (Mtl) G=2
Fleury (Pit)
Michael Corleone: 60 (57)
Kovalev (Mtl) A=1
Lidstrom (Det) A,W=2
Price (Mtl) 0
Go Wings: 59 (57)
Thornton (SJ)
Streit (Mtl) A=1
Gonchar (Pit)
Hasek (Det) W=1
Kovalev Jr. (Habsfan1993): 54 (53)
Crosby (Pit)
Cheechoo (SJ)
Rafalski (Det) W=1
More to follow, much snarkiness shall ensue. Who the hell is Johan Franzen and why did he not tell me he was going to be AWESOME this year?
Montreal 1 - Philadelphia 1
Pittsburgh 1 - New York 0
Detroit 2 - Colorado 0
San Jose 0 - Dallas 1
Bride of Kovalev (making some mean leftovers): 49
Marleau (SJ)
Plekanec (Mtl) 0
Whitney (Pit)
Rivet (SJ)
Saturday, April 26, 2008
Scores and Standings
D-man (Capt. Sparrow): 68 (64)
Datsyuk (Det)
Hossa, (Pit) G,W=3
A. Kostitsyn (Mtl)
Campbell, (SJ) A=1
Nabokov (SJ) 0
Michael Corleone: 57
Kovalev (Mtl)
Lidstrom (Det)
Price (Mtl)
Go Wings: 57 (55)
Thornton (SJ) A=1
Streit (Mtl)
Gonchar (Pit) W=1
Hasek (Det)
Stoner: 58 (51)
Zetterberg (Det)
Malkin (Pit) G,A,W=4
Michalek (SJ) G=2
Markov (Mtl)
Fleury (Pit) W=1
Kovalev Jr. (Habsfan1993): 53 (48)
Crosby (Pit) A,A,W=3
Cheechoo (SJ) G=2
Rafalski (Det)
So. Crosby gets a goal, but P-stone has Malkin STEAL it from him. Thanks a lot!
Montreal 1 - Philadelphia 0
Pittsburgh 1 - New York 0
Detroit 1 - Colorado 0
San Jose 0 - Dallas 1
Bride of Kovalev (making some mean leftovers): 49 (47)
Marleau (SJ) 0
Plekanec (Mtl)
Whitney (Pit) A,W=2
Rivet (SJ) 0
Datsyuk (Det)
Hossa, (Pit) G,W=3
A. Kostitsyn (Mtl)
Campbell, (SJ) A=1
Nabokov (SJ) 0
Michael Corleone: 57
Kovalev (Mtl)
Lidstrom (Det)
Price (Mtl)
Go Wings: 57 (55)
Thornton (SJ) A=1
Streit (Mtl)
Gonchar (Pit) W=1
Hasek (Det)
Stoner: 58 (51)
Zetterberg (Det)
Malkin (Pit) G,A,W=4
Michalek (SJ) G=2
Markov (Mtl)
Fleury (Pit) W=1
Kovalev Jr. (Habsfan1993): 53 (48)
Crosby (Pit) A,A,W=3
Cheechoo (SJ) G=2
Rafalski (Det)
So. Crosby gets a goal, but P-stone has Malkin STEAL it from him. Thanks a lot!
Montreal 1 - Philadelphia 0
Pittsburgh 1 - New York 0
Detroit 1 - Colorado 0
San Jose 0 - Dallas 1
Bride of Kovalev (making some mean leftovers): 49 (47)
Marleau (SJ) 0
Plekanec (Mtl)
Whitney (Pit) A,W=2
Rivet (SJ) 0
Friday, April 25, 2008
Sid "The Kid" vs. Super Mario. Who is superior?
After watching hockey central on Versus (insert hurl sound) Jaromir Jagr brought up a great topic for debate. Sid, and Mario, who is better? Here are Jagr's comments featured in the New York Post:
"With all due respect for [Sidney] Crosby and [Evgeni] Malkin, I don't think they are Mario Lemieux...I say that with all due respect because the game has changed....The gap between the best and worst players on a team [today] is very small. The gap between Mario and the rest of the guys when I was in Pittsburgh was so huge he was able to score 20 points in one series. I don't think those kids are able to do it...There were games we won 6-5 that Mario scored six points. The next night, 5-3, he scored five. [Crosby] can do it once in a while but not every game like [Lemieux]....Some nights you can't tell who is first line and fourth line in this new NHL. [Wayne] Gretzky in the '80s was far better than anyone else. So was Mario in the '90s. You came to watch the individual because they were so much better. I love to watch highlights of when great players dominated..."
I have to agree with Mr. Jagr on this one. Sid is great, but Mario was much better. Hockey in the 80's and 90's was won a lot of times with the team being carried on the shoulders of one player (with the exception the Oilers teams from the mid to late 80's to the early 90's). Bourque carried the Bruins. Roy carried the Canadiens. Lemieux carried the Penguins. Gretzky carried the Kings. Messier carried the Rangers. The problem today is that there are too many damn teams!!! In today's NHL, there are a TON of 4th liners who would not be playing in this league if it had not been for all of the expansion drafts of the past 10-15 years. Players like Shawn Thornton, Colton Orr, Jeremy Reich, Travis Green would all not be in this league if this was lets say 1985. I realize that the way the game is played has changed significantly since then, especially with the "Trap" play, but the overall quality of hockey is suffering mainly because of this. I do not think Sid would compare anywhere near Mario or Wayne if he was playing in that era. Granted the kid is good, but I don't think his name should even merit consideration to be named with the all time greats of our beloved game. At least not yet anyway.
I'd like to here your opinion on this...
"With all due respect for [Sidney] Crosby and [Evgeni] Malkin, I don't think they are Mario Lemieux...I say that with all due respect because the game has changed....The gap between the best and worst players on a team [today] is very small. The gap between Mario and the rest of the guys when I was in Pittsburgh was so huge he was able to score 20 points in one series. I don't think those kids are able to do it...There were games we won 6-5 that Mario scored six points. The next night, 5-3, he scored five. [Crosby] can do it once in a while but not every game like [Lemieux]....Some nights you can't tell who is first line and fourth line in this new NHL. [Wayne] Gretzky in the '80s was far better than anyone else. So was Mario in the '90s. You came to watch the individual because they were so much better. I love to watch highlights of when great players dominated..."
I have to agree with Mr. Jagr on this one. Sid is great, but Mario was much better. Hockey in the 80's and 90's was won a lot of times with the team being carried on the shoulders of one player (with the exception the Oilers teams from the mid to late 80's to the early 90's). Bourque carried the Bruins. Roy carried the Canadiens. Lemieux carried the Penguins. Gretzky carried the Kings. Messier carried the Rangers. The problem today is that there are too many damn teams!!! In today's NHL, there are a TON of 4th liners who would not be playing in this league if it had not been for all of the expansion drafts of the past 10-15 years. Players like Shawn Thornton, Colton Orr, Jeremy Reich, Travis Green would all not be in this league if this was lets say 1985. I realize that the way the game is played has changed significantly since then, especially with the "Trap" play, but the overall quality of hockey is suffering mainly because of this. I do not think Sid would compare anywhere near Mario or Wayne if he was playing in that era. Granted the kid is good, but I don't think his name should even merit consideration to be named with the all time greats of our beloved game. At least not yet anyway.
I'd like to here your opinion on this...
Versus absolutely sucks!
I have to rant. I absolutely HATE hockey on Versus. ESPN - please come back and save this great sport! I miss the days of the Panger and Buchi hashing over a 2-1 Wings win over the Avs that featured 4 fights along with a goalie fight. Versus absolutely sucks! The other day I'm flipping thru the comcast guide and it says that theres NHL playoff action on Versus. I absolutely love playoff hockey, so like any hockey fan would do, I tune into Versus to watch. Only one problem....it was not hockey that was on...it was fricken boxing from like 10 years ago!!!!What the hell Versus!!!I wanted to tune into this game (forgot who it was that was playing) because my team was getting absolutely destroyed by a superior Habs team, and I could not take it anymore. Its bad enough that they only joined us in the year 2008 about 2 months ago when they decided that maybe they should start broadcasting in HD, and now this? You take away playoff hockey for classic boxing? What is this? ESPN Classic? Panger needs to be doing games again, Melrose needs to be back, as well as Buchi. Jack Edwards and Andy Brickley absolutely suck (Bruins should have never dumped Dale Arnold) and do not merit to be doing ANY national games. I can not stand to look at Jack Edwards gross teeth in HD on my 50 inch! Somebody get the man some Colgate!!!!
Like teaching a pig to sing...
I thought about e-mailing the doorknobs at the Philadelphia Inquirer or Daily News, but what's the point? Teaching Philadelphia fans what hockey is, and is not, is pointless. These geniuses apparently have jobs in Toronto with the League officials and have seen replays that none of the rest of the world have. Please, Mr. Tim Panaccio, produce your evidence that the puck was touched above the crossbar. And Ed Moran, you are welcome to show your video showing that Mike Richards did not hit Kovalev knee-on-knee.
Dumb asses.
And with that, I present my own version of Ten Reasons why Philadelphia sucks:
10. 30th Street Station and the surrounding neighborhood. For those of you reading, this is an excellent spot to ply your trade of giving handjobs for crack.
9. The Broad Street Bullies of the 70's. Mr. Schultz, meet Larry Robinson. The "Hammer" indeed. Big Bird turned you into a nail, my friend. Which brings me to:
8. Bobby Clarke. I once said that if the Flyers ever won the Stanley Cup with him as GM, I would eat a bowl of worms. Looks like I win. (By the way Mr. Clarke, it's called goaltending. You might have tried getting someone who could actually do it.)
7. The dirtiest bunch of no-talent ass-clowns to call themselves "tough" since New Kids on the Block. News flash, Phlyers fans: this team is not the Broad Street Bullies. They're dirty, cheap, and are a disgrace. I'm looking your way Steve Downie. Any time, any place.
6. Three-eyed fish in the Shlukckikoohoolikill River. Grody.
5. Daniel Briere, or as I affectionately call him, "Little Bitch." No, I am not mad he didn't sign with the Habs. I'm grateful he didn't. I have hated that little twerp since game one of the 2006-2007 season. Thanks for throwing away Carey Price's first shutout puck, you ass. By the way, you suck in the defensive end. And everyone knows it.
4. The jerseys. Why, God, why?
3. Eric Lindros. Possibly the most overpaid, overrated, underperforming, douche-baggiest douche bag to ever lace 'em up. High sticks abounded when he "hit." Possibly whinier than Daniel Briere, if that's possible. Decided to be the most arrogant prick the world has ever seen when he refused to be drafted by the Nordiques. Before he had even played ONE NHL game, he was already dictating terms to NHL teams, spurred on by his doting father. This did have a positive outcome, since the aforementioned genius Bobby Clarke traded away Mike Ricci, Peter Forsberg, and a first-round pick who became Jocelyn Thibault--who was eventually converted into trade-bait for Patrick Roy, for the center of the Legion of Broom.
2. I admit, I'm still bitter about the Flyers getting John LeClair and Eric Desjardins for Mark Recchi--who they got back anyway.
1. Flyers fans, who pride themselves on being ignorant, violent, boozing boors. These idiots are enamored of violence and vulgarity. Their philosophy is, the dirtier, the nastier, the cruder, the better. They are proud of booing Santa Claus. They are proud of storming the ice when they became the first expansion team to win the Cup. They are proud of in-the-stands violence against other fans. They are among the worst fans in hockey.
And there you have it. Philadelphia is a cesspool of muck and filth. Its fans are crass, its players are overrated, and the city itself is disgusting.
Dumb asses.
And with that, I present my own version of Ten Reasons why Philadelphia sucks:
10. 30th Street Station and the surrounding neighborhood. For those of you reading, this is an excellent spot to ply your trade of giving handjobs for crack.
9. The Broad Street Bullies of the 70's. Mr. Schultz, meet Larry Robinson. The "Hammer" indeed. Big Bird turned you into a nail, my friend. Which brings me to:
8. Bobby Clarke. I once said that if the Flyers ever won the Stanley Cup with him as GM, I would eat a bowl of worms. Looks like I win. (By the way Mr. Clarke, it's called goaltending. You might have tried getting someone who could actually do it.)
7. The dirtiest bunch of no-talent ass-clowns to call themselves "tough" since New Kids on the Block. News flash, Phlyers fans: this team is not the Broad Street Bullies. They're dirty, cheap, and are a disgrace. I'm looking your way Steve Downie. Any time, any place.
6. Three-eyed fish in the Shlukckikoohoolikill River. Grody.
5. Daniel Briere, or as I affectionately call him, "Little Bitch." No, I am not mad he didn't sign with the Habs. I'm grateful he didn't. I have hated that little twerp since game one of the 2006-2007 season. Thanks for throwing away Carey Price's first shutout puck, you ass. By the way, you suck in the defensive end. And everyone knows it.
4. The jerseys. Why, God, why?
3. Eric Lindros. Possibly the most overpaid, overrated, underperforming, douche-baggiest douche bag to ever lace 'em up. High sticks abounded when he "hit." Possibly whinier than Daniel Briere, if that's possible. Decided to be the most arrogant prick the world has ever seen when he refused to be drafted by the Nordiques. Before he had even played ONE NHL game, he was already dictating terms to NHL teams, spurred on by his doting father. This did have a positive outcome, since the aforementioned genius Bobby Clarke traded away Mike Ricci, Peter Forsberg, and a first-round pick who became Jocelyn Thibault--who was eventually converted into trade-bait for Patrick Roy, for the center of the Legion of Broom.
2. I admit, I'm still bitter about the Flyers getting John LeClair and Eric Desjardins for Mark Recchi--who they got back anyway.
1. Flyers fans, who pride themselves on being ignorant, violent, boozing boors. These idiots are enamored of violence and vulgarity. Their philosophy is, the dirtier, the nastier, the cruder, the better. They are proud of booing Santa Claus. They are proud of storming the ice when they became the first expansion team to win the Cup. They are proud of in-the-stands violence against other fans. They are among the worst fans in hockey.
And there you have it. Philadelphia is a cesspool of muck and filth. Its fans are crass, its players are overrated, and the city itself is disgusting.
The post-mortem: Ben Franklin is the DEVIL!!!
Yes, I know Massachusetts claims Mr C-Note as their citizen, but Boston's out of the playoffs, so Ben is all about Filthydelphia for now.
Last night saw the Habs pull off a minor miracle. Most hockey fans will acknowledge that when a team keeps missing one gorgeous scoring chance after another, it usually comes back to bite them. After hitting the post twice, and missing an easy gimme tap-in later on, the Phblbllblbltyers managed to squeak one in off Patrice Brisebois's stick, who, heretofore, had been replaced by a weird doppelganger who was scoring and playing solid defense. Last night showed that the "Evil Brisebois" had been returned to his own universe and everything was back to normal.
The Flyers then struck again, aided by some truly sloppy play in Montreal's own end. I have to say I had no doubt the Habs would get at least one goal back, but Big Tits's missed penalty shot had me anxious that the Habs could not buy a goal. I was already planning for today's recap to go along the lines of "bad bounces, better team doesn't always win, yadda yadda."
Then, for some odd reason, Don Van Massenhoven decided that when a player gets rabbit-punched in the back of the head by an oncoming forward, that first player should be guilty of interference. Mike Komisarek was sent to the box to feel shame for daring to skate after the puck whilst being mauled from behind.
Well, the Phlyers made the Habs pay for their peccancy, putting the puck past Price. (This sentence has been brought to you by the letter "P". Now back to you, Kermit.) Then, the sleeping giant that is the Habs power play finally awakened. (Nice of you to join us!)
What can I say about the Smolinski-Begin-Kostopoulos line? One of the few truly good coaching decisions Carbonneau has made during the playoffs has been to go to these guys after every goal, arguably the most important shift in hockey. These boys don't quit, and they are true playoff performers.
Big A-plusses to the Habs third line. Kovy gets an A for two goals and no crap plays/bad turnovers. Koivu gets an A as well for dominating the faceoff circle, including the decisive one with 30 seconds left to let Kovy tie it up.
Of course, not everyone was as good. Higgins continues to disappoint, and Markov gets the nod as possibly the game's worst player, with bad passes, poor puckhandling in the offensive zone, and sloppy defense work.
The Habs could have been unfortunate victims of an inability to score despite playing well, but they finally made their own luck. We'll see how game two goes. Apparently, the Flyers feel they got the raw end of the deal, despite their gift power-play in the third period. Filthydelphia apprently needs to be reminded that when a ref signals "Goal" on the ice, the evidence has to be CONCLUSIVE that it was NOT a goal. And Kovalev's stick hit the puck at or below the cross-bar. Now STFU. That is all.
As for the Detroit game, all I have to say is, apparently Jose Theodore has a bad reaction to seafood. He left the game after being shelled, and then left the building to do some pukin'.
Last night saw the Habs pull off a minor miracle. Most hockey fans will acknowledge that when a team keeps missing one gorgeous scoring chance after another, it usually comes back to bite them. After hitting the post twice, and missing an easy gimme tap-in later on, the Phblbllblbltyers managed to squeak one in off Patrice Brisebois's stick, who, heretofore, had been replaced by a weird doppelganger who was scoring and playing solid defense. Last night showed that the "Evil Brisebois" had been returned to his own universe and everything was back to normal.
The Flyers then struck again, aided by some truly sloppy play in Montreal's own end. I have to say I had no doubt the Habs would get at least one goal back, but Big Tits's missed penalty shot had me anxious that the Habs could not buy a goal. I was already planning for today's recap to go along the lines of "bad bounces, better team doesn't always win, yadda yadda."
Then, for some odd reason, Don Van Massenhoven decided that when a player gets rabbit-punched in the back of the head by an oncoming forward, that first player should be guilty of interference. Mike Komisarek was sent to the box to feel shame for daring to skate after the puck whilst being mauled from behind.
Well, the Phlyers made the Habs pay for their peccancy, putting the puck past Price. (This sentence has been brought to you by the letter "P". Now back to you, Kermit.) Then, the sleeping giant that is the Habs power play finally awakened. (Nice of you to join us!)
What can I say about the Smolinski-Begin-Kostopoulos line? One of the few truly good coaching decisions Carbonneau has made during the playoffs has been to go to these guys after every goal, arguably the most important shift in hockey. These boys don't quit, and they are true playoff performers.
Big A-plusses to the Habs third line. Kovy gets an A for two goals and no crap plays/bad turnovers. Koivu gets an A as well for dominating the faceoff circle, including the decisive one with 30 seconds left to let Kovy tie it up.
Of course, not everyone was as good. Higgins continues to disappoint, and Markov gets the nod as possibly the game's worst player, with bad passes, poor puckhandling in the offensive zone, and sloppy defense work.
The Habs could have been unfortunate victims of an inability to score despite playing well, but they finally made their own luck. We'll see how game two goes. Apparently, the Flyers feel they got the raw end of the deal, despite their gift power-play in the third period. Filthydelphia apprently needs to be reminded that when a ref signals "Goal" on the ice, the evidence has to be CONCLUSIVE that it was NOT a goal. And Kovalev's stick hit the puck at or below the cross-bar. Now STFU. That is all.
As for the Detroit game, all I have to say is, apparently Jose Theodore has a bad reaction to seafood. He left the game after being shelled, and then left the building to do some pukin'.
Scores and Standings
D-man (Capt. Sparrow): 64 (59)
Datsyuk (Det) A,W=2
Hossa, (Pit)
A. Kostitsyn (Mtl) G,W=3
Campbell, (SJ)
Nabokov (SJ)
Michael Corleone: 57 (50)
Kovalev (Mtl) G,G,W=5
Lidstrom (Det) W=1
Price (Mtl) W=1
Go Wings: 55 (53)
Thornton (SJ)
Streit (Mtl) W=1
Gonchar (Pit)
Hasek (Det) W=1
Stoner: 51 (46)
Zetterberg (Det) G,W=3
Malkin (Pit)
Michalek (SJ)
Markov (Mtl) A,W=2
Fleury (Pit)
Kovalev Jr. (Habsfan1993): 48 (45)
Crosby (Pit)
Cheechoo (SJ)
Rafalski (Det) A,A,W=3
More to follow on last night's action. Turns out some other folks actually read this page.
Montreal 1 - Philadelphia 0
Pittsburgh 0 - New York 0
Detroit 1 - Colorado 0
San Jose 0 - Dallas 0
Bride of Kovalev (making some mean leftovers): 47 (45)
Marleau (SJ)
Plekanec (Mtl) A,W=2
Whitney (Pit)
Rivet (SJ)
Datsyuk (Det) A,W=2
Hossa, (Pit)
A. Kostitsyn (Mtl) G,W=3
Campbell, (SJ)
Nabokov (SJ)
Michael Corleone: 57 (50)
Kovalev (Mtl) G,G,W=5
Lidstrom (Det) W=1
Price (Mtl) W=1
Go Wings: 55 (53)
Thornton (SJ)
Streit (Mtl) W=1
Gonchar (Pit)
Hasek (Det) W=1
Stoner: 51 (46)
Zetterberg (Det) G,W=3
Malkin (Pit)
Michalek (SJ)
Markov (Mtl) A,W=2
Fleury (Pit)
Kovalev Jr. (Habsfan1993): 48 (45)
Crosby (Pit)
Cheechoo (SJ)
Rafalski (Det) A,A,W=3
More to follow on last night's action. Turns out some other folks actually read this page.
Montreal 1 - Philadelphia 0
Pittsburgh 0 - New York 0
Detroit 1 - Colorado 0
San Jose 0 - Dallas 0
Bride of Kovalev (making some mean leftovers): 47 (45)
Marleau (SJ)
Plekanec (Mtl) A,W=2
Whitney (Pit)
Rivet (SJ)
Wednesday, April 23, 2008
The Emperor has made a critical error...
OK, so no one ever accused me of being especially good at math. I have double-checked my math, and it turns out that every single person's score is wrong. I present your updated standings, and beg your forgiveness. Some of you have more points than you originally did, some fewer. The standings are unaffected, but my shame knows no bounds.
Sometimes score cards change. My system has been to check the official box scores from NHL.com every morning, but these have been known to be notoriously wrong and inaccurate. The stats I checked today were on the NHL playoff stats page, here.
MVP of this round goes to Ovechkin and Iginla, but both are out.
Suck-assiest pick goes to Gaborik, Murray, Giguere, and Huet. I have two of them, so that makes me the suck-assiest. Hooray! P-stone, does that mean I get my very own statue?
D-man (Capt. Sparrow): 59
Datsyuk (Det) 3G, 2A, 4W =12
Hossa, (Pit) 1G, 4A, 4W =10
A. Kostitsyn (Mtl) 3G, 2A, 4W =12
Campbell, (SJ) 3A, 4W =7
Nabokov (SJ) 1SO, 3W =5
Green (Was) 3G, 4A, 3W =13
Go Wings: 53
Thornton (SJ) 2G, 5A, 4W =13
Streit (Mtl) 1G, 1A, 4W =6
Gonchar (Pit) 1G, 1A, 4W =6
Hasek (Det) 4W =4
Ovechkin (Was) 4G, 5A, 3W =16
Selanne (Ana) 2G, 2A, 2W =8
Michael Corleone: 50
Kovalev (Mtl) 2G, 4A, 4W =12
Lidstrom (Det) 2G, 1A, 4W =9
Price (Mtl) 2SO, 2W =6
Iginla (Cal) 4G, 5A, 3W =16
Gaborik (Min) 1A, 2W =3
Niedermayer (Ana) 2A, 2W =4
Stoner: 46
Zetterberg (Det) 2G, 2A, 4W =10
Malkin (Pit) 2G, 5A, 4W =13
Michalek (SJ) 4W =4
Markov (Mtl) 1A, 4W =5
Fleury (Pit) 1SO, 3W =5
Pronger (Ana) 2G, 3A, 2W =9
Kovalev Jr. (Habsfan1993): 45
Crosby (Pit) 2G, 6A, 4W =14
Cheechoo (SJ) 3G, 2A, 4W =12
Rafalski (Det) 1G, 3A, 4W =9
Murray (Bos) 3W =3
Schneider (Ana) 1G, 2W =4
Giguere (Ana) 1A, 2W =3
Montreal 0 - Philadelphia 0
Pittsburgh 0 - New York 0
Detroit 0 - Colorado 0
San Jose 0 - Dallas 0
Bride of Kovalev (making some mean leftovers): 45
Marleau (SJ) 2G, 4A, 4W =12
Plekanec (Mtl) 1G, 3A, 4W =9
Whitney (Pit) 1A, 4W =5
Rivet (SJ) 3A, 4W =7
Getzlaf (Ana) 2G, 3A, 2W =9
Huet (Was) 3W =3
Sometimes score cards change. My system has been to check the official box scores from NHL.com every morning, but these have been known to be notoriously wrong and inaccurate. The stats I checked today were on the NHL playoff stats page, here.
MVP of this round goes to Ovechkin and Iginla, but both are out.
Suck-assiest pick goes to Gaborik, Murray, Giguere, and Huet. I have two of them, so that makes me the suck-assiest. Hooray! P-stone, does that mean I get my very own statue?
D-man (Capt. Sparrow): 59
Datsyuk (Det) 3G, 2A, 4W =12
Hossa, (Pit) 1G, 4A, 4W =10
A. Kostitsyn (Mtl) 3G, 2A, 4W =12
Campbell, (SJ) 3A, 4W =7
Nabokov (SJ) 1SO, 3W =5
Green (Was) 3G, 4A, 3W =13
Go Wings: 53
Thornton (SJ) 2G, 5A, 4W =13
Streit (Mtl) 1G, 1A, 4W =6
Gonchar (Pit) 1G, 1A, 4W =6
Hasek (Det) 4W =4
Ovechkin (Was) 4G, 5A, 3W =16
Selanne (Ana) 2G, 2A, 2W =8
Michael Corleone: 50
Kovalev (Mtl) 2G, 4A, 4W =12
Lidstrom (Det) 2G, 1A, 4W =9
Price (Mtl) 2SO, 2W =6
Iginla (Cal) 4G, 5A, 3W =16
Gaborik (Min) 1A, 2W =3
Niedermayer (Ana) 2A, 2W =4
Stoner: 46
Zetterberg (Det) 2G, 2A, 4W =10
Malkin (Pit) 2G, 5A, 4W =13
Michalek (SJ) 4W =4
Markov (Mtl) 1A, 4W =5
Fleury (Pit) 1SO, 3W =5
Pronger (Ana) 2G, 3A, 2W =9
Kovalev Jr. (Habsfan1993): 45
Crosby (Pit) 2G, 6A, 4W =14
Cheechoo (SJ) 3G, 2A, 4W =12
Rafalski (Det) 1G, 3A, 4W =9
Murray (Bos) 3W =3
Schneider (Ana) 1G, 2W =4
Giguere (Ana) 1A, 2W =3
Montreal 0 - Philadelphia 0
Pittsburgh 0 - New York 0
Detroit 0 - Colorado 0
San Jose 0 - Dallas 0
Bride of Kovalev (making some mean leftovers): 45
Marleau (SJ) 2G, 4A, 4W =12
Plekanec (Mtl) 1G, 3A, 4W =9
Whitney (Pit) 1A, 4W =5
Rivet (SJ) 3A, 4W =7
Getzlaf (Ana) 2G, 3A, 2W =9
Huet (Was) 3W =3
Scores and Standings
D-man (Capt. Sparrow): 60 (57)
Datsyuk (Det)
Hossa, (Pit)
A. Kostitsyn (Mtl)
Campbell, (SJ) A,W=2
Green (Was) 0
Nabokov (SJ) W=1
Go Wings: 54 (48)
Thornton (SJ) G,W=3
Ovechkin (Was) G,A=3
Selanne (Ana)
Streit (Mtl)
Gonchar (Pit)
Hasek (Det)
Michael Corleone: 49 (47)
Kovalev (Mtl)
Iginla (Cal) G=2
Gaborik (Min)
Lidstrom (Det)
Niedermayer (Ana)
Price (Mtl)
Stoner: 47 (46)
Zetterberg (Det)
Malkin (Pit)
Michalek (SJ) W=1
Pronger (Ana)
Markov (Mtl)
Fleury (Pit)
Kovalev Jr. (Habsfan1993): 45 (43)
Crosby (Pit)
Cheechoo (SJ) A,W=2
Murray (Bos)
Rafalski (Det)
Schneider (Ana)
Giguere (Ana)
So Montreal with play Filthydelphia, and the Penguins will play the Rangers, while in the West, the Red Wings face off once again against the Avalanche, while Dallas plays against San Jose.
Interestingly, the seeding of round two is identical from the East to the West: #1 vs #6, and #2 vs #5.
Congratulations to everyone for making it through the first round. In years past some have not even made it out of round one with a single player.
Just because there's no hockey today doesn't mean there won't be more posts today and tomorrow, so stay tuned!
Oh, and y'all can feel free to leave comments on the boards. In the words of Mr. Blutarsky, "It don't cost nothing."
Montreal 4- Boston 3
Pittsburgh 4 - Ottawa 0
Washington 3- Philadelphia 4
New Jersey 1 - New York 4
Detroit 4 - Nashville 2
San Jose 4 - Calgary 3
Minnesota 2 - Colorado 4
Anaheim 2 - Dallas 4
Bride of Kovalev (making some mean leftovers): 44 (42)
Marleau (SJ)
Getzlaf (Ana)
Plekanec (Mtl)
Whitney (Pit)
Rivet (SJ) A,W=2
Huet (Was)0
Datsyuk (Det)
Hossa, (Pit)
A. Kostitsyn (Mtl)
Campbell, (SJ) A,W=2
Green (Was) 0
Nabokov (SJ) W=1
Go Wings: 54 (48)
Thornton (SJ) G,W=3
Ovechkin (Was) G,A=3
Selanne (Ana)
Streit (Mtl)
Gonchar (Pit)
Hasek (Det)
Michael Corleone: 49 (47)
Kovalev (Mtl)
Iginla (Cal) G=2
Gaborik (Min)
Lidstrom (Det)
Niedermayer (Ana)
Price (Mtl)
Stoner: 47 (46)
Zetterberg (Det)
Malkin (Pit)
Michalek (SJ) W=1
Pronger (Ana)
Markov (Mtl)
Fleury (Pit)
Kovalev Jr. (Habsfan1993): 45 (43)
Crosby (Pit)
Cheechoo (SJ) A,W=2
Murray (Bos)
Rafalski (Det)
Schneider (Ana)
Giguere (Ana)
So Montreal with play Filthydelphia, and the Penguins will play the Rangers, while in the West, the Red Wings face off once again against the Avalanche, while Dallas plays against San Jose.
Interestingly, the seeding of round two is identical from the East to the West: #1 vs #6, and #2 vs #5.
Congratulations to everyone for making it through the first round. In years past some have not even made it out of round one with a single player.
Just because there's no hockey today doesn't mean there won't be more posts today and tomorrow, so stay tuned!
Oh, and y'all can feel free to leave comments on the boards. In the words of Mr. Blutarsky, "It don't cost nothing."
Montreal 4- Boston 3
Pittsburgh 4 - Ottawa 0
Washington 3- Philadelphia 4
New Jersey 1 - New York 4
Detroit 4 - Nashville 2
San Jose 4 - Calgary 3
Minnesota 2 - Colorado 4
Anaheim 2 - Dallas 4
Bride of Kovalev (making some mean leftovers): 44 (42)
Marleau (SJ)
Getzlaf (Ana)
Plekanec (Mtl)
Whitney (Pit)
Rivet (SJ) A,W=2
Huet (Was)0
Tuesday, April 22, 2008
Another exciting night of hockey!
Another 2 game 7's on tap for tonight. Game 7 of the NHL playoffs, in my opinion, is arguably the best sporting event to watch outside of the Superbowl. Maybe even better in some cases.
I am extremely disappointed that the San Jose Sharks let this series get this far. It is the same thing year after year with this team. Jumbo Joe and company were completely dominant during the regular season, and as soon as the playoff hockey starts, they start playing a totally different game. This is the time to be playing with intensity at its highest level, and the Sharks are playing like they don't have a care in the world. If it had not been for superb goaltending from Nabakov, this team would be home right now watching playoff hockey like the rest of us. They have to be the most frustrating team in the NHL to watch, with all the talent in the world, playing like "its just another game". Joe - this is the exact reason why the Bruins dumped you buddy. All the skills in the world, but no heart when it matters.
I stand by my blog yesterday about Daniel, excuse me I forgot, Danny Briere yesterday. He racked up another goal, even though it didn't really matter as the Alex'O completely dominated the game last night. Nice of you to join the rest of your team Alex. Here's my prediction, Caps win this game in overtime on a Mike Green goal (hey he's on my playoff fantasy team here so I have to show a little love).
Even though the Bruins got absolutely hammered last night, I am excited about this team. Considering they played the entire series with a number of guys who played in Providence this year, only bright things are to come in the future. This offseason is the time to part ways with Tim Thomas as his stock is probably at its peak. It's also time to move on from Glen Murray, as he was exposed as an old man playing a kids game, always seem to be one step behind the play. The Bruins are just one elite goal scorer (a la Marian Hossa) away from being considerable contenders. Signing Hossa this offseason is exactly what this teams needs. Anything less I will be disappointed in my team. Tuuka Rask "should" be starting for this team next year and I look for him to have the same kind of impact that Carey Price has had on the Canadiens.
Last but not least, is there any doubt in any one's mind that Milan Lucic, at age 19, has the potential to be the next Cam Neely? This guy can do it all, fight, stick handle, score, every coaches dream. I bet Cam had a lot of say when this guy was drafted last year.
I am extremely disappointed that the San Jose Sharks let this series get this far. It is the same thing year after year with this team. Jumbo Joe and company were completely dominant during the regular season, and as soon as the playoff hockey starts, they start playing a totally different game. This is the time to be playing with intensity at its highest level, and the Sharks are playing like they don't have a care in the world. If it had not been for superb goaltending from Nabakov, this team would be home right now watching playoff hockey like the rest of us. They have to be the most frustrating team in the NHL to watch, with all the talent in the world, playing like "its just another game". Joe - this is the exact reason why the Bruins dumped you buddy. All the skills in the world, but no heart when it matters.
I stand by my blog yesterday about Daniel, excuse me I forgot, Danny Briere yesterday. He racked up another goal, even though it didn't really matter as the Alex'O completely dominated the game last night. Nice of you to join the rest of your team Alex. Here's my prediction, Caps win this game in overtime on a Mike Green goal (hey he's on my playoff fantasy team here so I have to show a little love).
Even though the Bruins got absolutely hammered last night, I am excited about this team. Considering they played the entire series with a number of guys who played in Providence this year, only bright things are to come in the future. This offseason is the time to part ways with Tim Thomas as his stock is probably at its peak. It's also time to move on from Glen Murray, as he was exposed as an old man playing a kids game, always seem to be one step behind the play. The Bruins are just one elite goal scorer (a la Marian Hossa) away from being considerable contenders. Signing Hossa this offseason is exactly what this teams needs. Anything less I will be disappointed in my team. Tuuka Rask "should" be starting for this team next year and I look for him to have the same kind of impact that Carey Price has had on the Canadiens.
Last but not least, is there any doubt in any one's mind that Milan Lucic, at age 19, has the potential to be the next Cam Neely? This guy can do it all, fight, stick handle, score, every coaches dream. I bet Cam had a lot of say when this guy was drafted last year.
Scores and Standings
I'd like to start by saying a heart-felt congratulations to the Bruins and their fans. This was an awesome series that saw the Bruins play outstanding hockey. Claude Julien deserves to be coach of the year, Phil Kessel is going to do great things, I HATE Milan Lucic (and that is a compliment), and I find myself liking Glen Metropolit despite the black and gold attire. In my opinion, the Habs are lucky to have survived this series. Boston fans ought to be extremely proud of their team, and Habs fans can start collecting the pieces of their shattered relationship with their team (see below). Let's see what the pundits say about the Bruins THIS summer, eh?
D-man (Capt. Sparrow): 57 (50)
Datsyuk (Det)
Hossa, (Pit)
A. Kostitsyn (Mtl)G,G,A,W=6
Campbell, (SJ)
Green (Was)W=1
Nabokov (SJ)
Go Wings: 48 (40)
Thornton (SJ)
Ovechkin (Was)G,G,W=5
Selanne (Ana)
Streit (Mtl)G,W=3
Gonchar (Pit)
Hasek (Det)
Michael Corleone: 47 (42)
Kovalev (Mtl)A,A,W=3
Iginla (Cal)
Gaborik (Min)
Lidstrom (Det)
Niedermayer (Ana)
Price (Mtl)SO=2
Stoner: 46 (45)
Zetterberg (Det)
Malkin (Pit)
Michalek (SJ)
Pronger (Ana)
Markov (Mtl)W=1
Fleury (Pit)
Kovalev Jr. (Habsfan1993): 43
Crosby (Pit)
Cheechoo (SJ)
Murray (Bos)0
Rafalski (Det)
Schneider (Ana)
Giguere (Ana)
Wow, what a shakeup in the standings! Game 7, baby. Go Sharks, Go Caps.
Montreal 4- Boston 3
Pittsburgh 4 - Ottawa 0
Washington 3- Philadelphia 3
New Jersey 1 - New York 4
Detroit 4 - Nashville 2
San Jose 3 - Calgary 3
Minnesota 2 - Colorado 4
Anaheim 2 - Dallas 4
Bride of Kovalev (making some mean leftovers): 42 (39)
Marleau (SJ)
Getzlaf (Ana)
Plekanec (Mtl)A,W=2
Whitney (Pit)
Rivet (SJ)
Huet (Was)W=1
D-man (Capt. Sparrow): 57 (50)
Datsyuk (Det)
Hossa, (Pit)
A. Kostitsyn (Mtl)G,G,A,W=6
Campbell, (SJ)
Green (Was)W=1
Nabokov (SJ)
Go Wings: 48 (40)
Thornton (SJ)
Ovechkin (Was)G,G,W=5
Selanne (Ana)
Streit (Mtl)G,W=3
Gonchar (Pit)
Hasek (Det)
Michael Corleone: 47 (42)
Kovalev (Mtl)A,A,W=3
Iginla (Cal)
Gaborik (Min)
Lidstrom (Det)
Niedermayer (Ana)
Price (Mtl)SO=2
Stoner: 46 (45)
Zetterberg (Det)
Malkin (Pit)
Michalek (SJ)
Pronger (Ana)
Markov (Mtl)W=1
Fleury (Pit)
Kovalev Jr. (Habsfan1993): 43
Crosby (Pit)
Cheechoo (SJ)
Murray (Bos)0
Rafalski (Det)
Schneider (Ana)
Giguere (Ana)
Wow, what a shakeup in the standings! Game 7, baby. Go Sharks, Go Caps.
Montreal 4- Boston 3
Pittsburgh 4 - Ottawa 0
Washington 3- Philadelphia 3
New Jersey 1 - New York 4
Detroit 4 - Nashville 2
San Jose 3 - Calgary 3
Minnesota 2 - Colorado 4
Anaheim 2 - Dallas 4
Bride of Kovalev (making some mean leftovers): 42 (39)
Marleau (SJ)
Getzlaf (Ana)
Plekanec (Mtl)A,W=2
Whitney (Pit)
Rivet (SJ)
Huet (Was)W=1
Faith and Faithlessness
It's hard to know how to feel after last night's game. I was, of course, happy the Habs won. But I was not overjoyed, I was not ecstatic, jumping up and down when the game went 4-0 and then 5-0. There was a feeling of relief that disaster had been avoided. And it would have been disastrous, the #1 seed losing to the #8 in the first round. This is not unprecedented, as the Habs did it to the Bruins in 2002, and the Oilers did it in 2006 to advance all the way to the Finals.
All the same, despite the fantastic way the Habs played last night, I could not celebrate.
Shortly before game 6 ended, I turned off the TV. I was disgusted. I was disgusted with Carbonneau's coaching. I was enraged at Bob Gainey for REFUSING to augment the Canadiens with a game-breaker. True, he added Smolinski, Kostopoulos, and dare I say, Brisebois, but those acquisitions only started paying dividends in the playoffs, and they still were not Conn Smythe-type players who could end a series. I had finally had it with Kovalev, a player I have always admired. I wanted him to go to a team where I could still admire his skill, without worrying about how the brain-cramps would harm my favorite team. I was FURIOUS with Streit, who managed to bungle more plays and blue-line passes than I could count. And Carey Price, the much-touted prospect, looked like a fish. And there was more, from Markov to Latendresse, I was enraged.
All this, and I had had enough. Every autographed picture, the wall banner, the Mcfarlanes, the jersey cards, they all went into a box. The jerseys went into the guest room closet. I even took the bumper sticker off my car. I expunged any visible association I had with the Canadiens. I am not proud of this. But it was borne of my utter frustration with a team that has been making empty promises since December 2 1995. I found myself hoping the Canadiens would trade Saku Koivu to a contender so I could watch him get the Stanley Cup. I declared that I was more of a fan of Koivu than the Canadiens.
My explanation was that the Habs had to earn me back as a fan. This happens all the time in sports. Fans come and go, and the people who will some day pack the arena in Chicago to watch the Blackhawks win the Cup will say they have always been true fans. I cannot begin to give an analysis of fanhood: I recommend E's excellent dissertation on Fanaticism in A Theory of Ice.
All I can say is something changed in me. I am not the fan I was, and now I am unsure if I will ever be again. What has me more worried than whether the Habs will earn me back as a fan, is whether I am the one who is really to blame, and whether I have to earn the Habs back as my team.
I have started by recalling all the Koivu memorablilia from purgatory. Make no mistake. The first thing Bride of Kovalev said last night after the game anded was, "The Habs would definitely not have won tonight if Saku Koivu hadn't played." How true. I am ashamed for ever doubting Koivu. I will always be inspired by what he has done; by what he continues to do. I can honestly say I will always cheer for him, no matter where he plays.
The Canadiens may well have faced their toughest opponent in the Bruins, and I may have faced my toughest test ever as a fan. I realize that this is a new experience. I have never seen Montreal in such a favored position. I have been a fan since 1991 or so, yet in all these years, Montreal has never been a #1 seed where success was heavily predicted by all the pundits. This is a brave new world, one in which underdog status is for someone else. And yet, it was THIS year when my faith finally broke. Now I must build it back up.
All the same, despite the fantastic way the Habs played last night, I could not celebrate.
Shortly before game 6 ended, I turned off the TV. I was disgusted. I was disgusted with Carbonneau's coaching. I was enraged at Bob Gainey for REFUSING to augment the Canadiens with a game-breaker. True, he added Smolinski, Kostopoulos, and dare I say, Brisebois, but those acquisitions only started paying dividends in the playoffs, and they still were not Conn Smythe-type players who could end a series. I had finally had it with Kovalev, a player I have always admired. I wanted him to go to a team where I could still admire his skill, without worrying about how the brain-cramps would harm my favorite team. I was FURIOUS with Streit, who managed to bungle more plays and blue-line passes than I could count. And Carey Price, the much-touted prospect, looked like a fish. And there was more, from Markov to Latendresse, I was enraged.
All this, and I had had enough. Every autographed picture, the wall banner, the Mcfarlanes, the jersey cards, they all went into a box. The jerseys went into the guest room closet. I even took the bumper sticker off my car. I expunged any visible association I had with the Canadiens. I am not proud of this. But it was borne of my utter frustration with a team that has been making empty promises since December 2 1995. I found myself hoping the Canadiens would trade Saku Koivu to a contender so I could watch him get the Stanley Cup. I declared that I was more of a fan of Koivu than the Canadiens.
My explanation was that the Habs had to earn me back as a fan. This happens all the time in sports. Fans come and go, and the people who will some day pack the arena in Chicago to watch the Blackhawks win the Cup will say they have always been true fans. I cannot begin to give an analysis of fanhood: I recommend E's excellent dissertation on Fanaticism in A Theory of Ice.
All I can say is something changed in me. I am not the fan I was, and now I am unsure if I will ever be again. What has me more worried than whether the Habs will earn me back as a fan, is whether I am the one who is really to blame, and whether I have to earn the Habs back as my team.
I have started by recalling all the Koivu memorablilia from purgatory. Make no mistake. The first thing Bride of Kovalev said last night after the game anded was, "The Habs would definitely not have won tonight if Saku Koivu hadn't played." How true. I am ashamed for ever doubting Koivu. I will always be inspired by what he has done; by what he continues to do. I can honestly say I will always cheer for him, no matter where he plays.
The Canadiens may well have faced their toughest opponent in the Bruins, and I may have faced my toughest test ever as a fan. I realize that this is a new experience. I have never seen Montreal in such a favored position. I have been a fan since 1991 or so, yet in all these years, Montreal has never been a #1 seed where success was heavily predicted by all the pundits. This is a brave new world, one in which underdog status is for someone else. And yet, it was THIS year when my faith finally broke. Now I must build it back up.
Monday, April 21, 2008
Give him credit where it is do...
Love him, or hate him, is there any doubt that Daniel Briere is one of the best clutch players to turn to in the playoffs? Take a look at his current 2008 playoff statistics: 5 goals (3 ppg), 4 assists (1 ppa), and a +/- 5. 9 points in 5 playoff games! Since March 1, Briere has registered at least 1 point in 18 out of 20 games played, and has registered 26 points! Let's not forget that the Flyers were fighting for a playoff spot all the way until the last day of the season.
He may be a whiny little b*tch, but I'd take him on my team anytime!
He may be a whiny little b*tch, but I'd take him on my team anytime!
Scores and Standings
D-man (Capt. Sparrow): 50 (49)
Datsyuk (Det)W=1
Hossa, (Pit)
A. Kostitsyn (Mtl)
Campbell, (SJ)0
Green (Was)
Nabokov (SJ)0
Stoner: 45 (43)
Zetterberg (Det)A,W=2
Malkin (Pit)
Michalek (SJ)0
Pronger (Ana)0
Markov (Mtl)
Fleury (Pit)
Kovalev Jr. (Habsfan1993): 43 (39)
Crosby (Pit)
Cheechoo (SJ)0
Murray (Bos)
Rafalski (Det)G,W=3
Schneider (Ana)0
Giguere (Ana)A=1 (Wow...an assist for a goalie.)
Michael Corleone: 42 (37)
Kovalev (Mtl)
Iginla (Cal)W=1
Gaborik (Min)
Lidstrom (Det)G,W=3
Niedermayer (Ana)A=1
Price (Mtl)
Go Wings: 40 (39)
Thornton (SJ)
Ovechkin (Was)
Selanne (Ana)0
Streit (Mtl)
Gonchar (Pit)
Hasek (Det)W=1
So. Giguere gets an assist. Would have been nice if he had actually stopped some pucks going in HIS net rather than concentrating on Turco's. Game 7 tonight, Bruins make history, Habs make big shit for all Montreal fans to enjoy. Much happy fun time. Flames force game 7 against Sharks, so everyone can have a busted playoff team after round 1.
Montreal 3 - Boston 3
Pittsburgh 4 - Ottawa 0
Washington 2 - Philadelphia 3
New Jersey 1 - New York 4
Detroit 4 - Nashville 2
San Jose 3 - Calgary 3
Minnesota 2 - Colorado 4
Anaheim 2 - Dallas 4
Bride of Kovalev (making some mean leftovers): 39
Marleau (SJ)0
Getzlaf (Ana)0
Plekanec (Mtl)
Whitney (Pit)
Rivet (SJ)0
Huet (Was)
Sunday, April 20, 2008
Scores and Standings
D-man (Capt. Sparrow): 49 (46)
Datsyuk (Det)
Hossa, (Pit)
A. Kostitsyn (Mtl)0
Campbell, (SJ)
Green (Was)A,A,W=3
Nabokov (SJ)
Stoner: 43
Zetterberg (Det)
Malkin (Pit)
Michalek (SJ)
Pronger (Ana)
Markov (Mtl)0
Fleury (Pit)
Kovalev Jr. (Habsfan1993): 39 (38)
Crosby (Pit)
Cheechoo (SJ)
Murray (Bos)W=1
Rafalski (Det)
Schneider (Ana)
Giguere (Ana)
Go Wings: 39 (38)
Thornton (SJ)
Ovechkin (Was)W=1
Selanne (Ana)
Streit (Mtl)0
Gonchar (Pit)
Hasek (Det)
Michael Corleone: 37 (36)
Kovalev (Mtl)0
Iginla (Cal)
Gaborik (Min)A=1
Lidstrom (Det)
Niedermayer (Ana)
Price (Mtl)0
So. I have a confession. Every single item of Candiens paraphenalia I own--every jersey, shirt, card, memento, everything--is in a box right now. I even took the bumper sticker off my car.
I am disgusted with this team. I am tired of waiting, watching them rebuild, only to waste talent and money. I am done with the platitudes, urging me and the other fans to wait just a bit longer. At this point, they have to earn me back as a fan. And it's going to take more than them just beating the Bruins (which won't happen anyway, so forget that) on Monday night.
Montreal 3 - Boston 3
Pittsburgh 4 - Ottawa 0
Washington 2 - Philadelphia 3
New Jersey 1 - New York 4
Detroit 3 - Nashville 2
San Jose 3 - Calgary 2
Minnesota 2 - Colorado 4
Anaheim 2 - Dallas 3
Bride of Kovalev (making some mean leftovers): 39 (36)
Marleau (SJ)
Getzlaf (Ana)
Plekanec (Mtl)G=2
Whitney (Pit)
Rivet (SJ)
Huet (Was)W=1
Datsyuk (Det)
Hossa, (Pit)
A. Kostitsyn (Mtl)0
Campbell, (SJ)
Green (Was)A,A,W=3
Nabokov (SJ)
Stoner: 43
Zetterberg (Det)
Malkin (Pit)
Michalek (SJ)
Pronger (Ana)
Markov (Mtl)0
Fleury (Pit)
Kovalev Jr. (Habsfan1993): 39 (38)
Crosby (Pit)
Cheechoo (SJ)
Murray (Bos)W=1
Rafalski (Det)
Schneider (Ana)
Giguere (Ana)
Go Wings: 39 (38)
Thornton (SJ)
Ovechkin (Was)W=1
Selanne (Ana)
Streit (Mtl)0
Gonchar (Pit)
Hasek (Det)
Michael Corleone: 37 (36)
Kovalev (Mtl)0
Iginla (Cal)
Gaborik (Min)A=1
Lidstrom (Det)
Niedermayer (Ana)
Price (Mtl)0
So. I have a confession. Every single item of Candiens paraphenalia I own--every jersey, shirt, card, memento, everything--is in a box right now. I even took the bumper sticker off my car.
I am disgusted with this team. I am tired of waiting, watching them rebuild, only to waste talent and money. I am done with the platitudes, urging me and the other fans to wait just a bit longer. At this point, they have to earn me back as a fan. And it's going to take more than them just beating the Bruins (which won't happen anyway, so forget that) on Monday night.
Montreal 3 - Boston 3
Pittsburgh 4 - Ottawa 0
Washington 2 - Philadelphia 3
New Jersey 1 - New York 4
Detroit 3 - Nashville 2
San Jose 3 - Calgary 2
Minnesota 2 - Colorado 4
Anaheim 2 - Dallas 3
Bride of Kovalev (making some mean leftovers): 39 (36)
Marleau (SJ)
Getzlaf (Ana)
Plekanec (Mtl)G=2
Whitney (Pit)
Rivet (SJ)
Huet (Was)W=1
Balls to the Wall!
The Bruins are becoming relevant in this town once again. Is there a more deserving team to win a best of 7 series than this one? Not one superstar on this team and they have forced Montreal to a game 7. In my opinion, have outplayed the #1 seed in the East 5 out of 6 games thus far. Even if your not a fan of this team, if they get by the first round, it is hard not to cheer for them to win. Tell me again why Phil Kessel sat out games 2, 3, and 4? 3 big time goals in two games, and the first of his 2 last night was arguably the best goal of the playoffs thus far. Is there any doubt, only at age 20, this kid is showing the skill and testicular fortitude to be a big time NHLer? Anyway, game 7 will absolutely be the toughest one of all for this team to win, especially since this game is in Montreal (and we all know how the calls tend to go in Montreal), but the B's have absolutely nothing to lose. I've said time and time again that the key to beating this Canadians team is to jump on Carey Price and take his mind out of the game. They did it again last night in the 3rd period. All the pressure is on Price and the Canadians in game 7. Trying to withstand from losing 3 straight, the series, not being able to put the final nail on the coffin for 3 straight games against the lowly 8th seeded Boston Bruins. There are a lot of Bruin haters out there, but give credit where credit is due. They are playing like they belong there as series contenders. All of the pressure in game 7 is on the Canadians, and the shoulders of Carey Price. Game 7 will determine if his name deserves mention with the greats like Ken Dryden, Patrick Roy (hurts me to give this scumbag praise), or is a playoff flop like Jose Theadore, David Aebisher.
And on that final note, I'm shipping up to Boston, I love that dirty water, Boston your my home!
And on that final note, I'm shipping up to Boston, I love that dirty water, Boston your my home!
Saturday, April 19, 2008
For Sale:
Assorted Hockey Cards, circa 2005-2008 (all featuring Montreal Canadiens) includes Fleer Ultra, Upper Deck, and OPC
Signed picture of Saku Koivu
Personally signed program insert from Bernie Geoffrion (reads: "Dear Geoffrey, Best wishes, Bernie, 'Boom-Boom' Geoffrion."
Francis Bouillon autographed puck
Mike Ribeiro autographed Montreal Canadiens hat
Saku Koivu McFarlane Sports Pick
Saku Koivu jersey card
Alexei Kovalev jersey card
Andrei Kostitsyn jersey card
Special Edition mini banners from retirement ceremonies of Yvon Cournoyer#12, Dickie Moore #12, and Bernie Geoffrion #5.
Used game ticket from retirement ceremony of Yvon Cournoyer and Dickie Moore
Used game ticket from 1992-1993 Montreal Canadiens championship season (December 13 vs New York Rangers at Madison Square Garden
Used game tickets from 2004, 2006, and 2007 at Bell Centre vs Thrashers, Bruins, and Capitals
Slightly used Montreal Canadiens bumper sticker
Special puck from Canadiens-Hurricanes playoff series 2002, purchased at playoff game
Very used Montreal Canadiens hat (red)
CCM warm-up fleece jacket Montreal Canadiens logo, size M
Pair hockey gloves, Bauer Vapor X, 13", Red White and Blue
Pair hockey socks, Montreal Canadiens red-white-blue pattern (well worn)
Hockey helmet, royal blue
Saku Koivu jersey (vintage third jersey, size L)
Montreal Canadiens white jersey (no name, size L)
Personalized Montreal Canadiens Jersey, home and away (White #5--can remove for buyer before shipping) Red jersey is authentic, size 48. White jersey is replica, size L
Alex Kovalev Team Russia jersey, authentic, size 52--well worn--has been involved in fight, has since been washed
Two Montreal Canadiens -shirts. One is blue Bouillon name and number, size L, other is red with Canadiens logo, size L
Montreal Canadiens logo pendant
Montreal Canadiens logo papel pin
Saku Koivu poster--reads "Courgage"
Montreal Canadiens 1993 Stanley Cup video (VHS)
Montreal Canadiens table-top hockey figure
The Rocket DVD
Game video of Heritage Classic from 2004
Game video of Ottawa Senators vs Montreal Canadiens (late 2001-2002 season--Saku Koivu's first game back from Cancer)
Alexei Kovalev tips and training methods DVD
"The Hockey Sweater" book by Roch Carrier
Slightly used blue Montreal Canadiens hat
Montreal Canadiens Stanley Cup banner: features all years Canadiens won Stanley Cup, except 1916, since it occurred before NHL was formed
All my hopes and fucking dreams
Will accept best offer.
Signed picture of Saku Koivu
Personally signed program insert from Bernie Geoffrion (reads: "Dear Geoffrey, Best wishes, Bernie, 'Boom-Boom' Geoffrion."
Francis Bouillon autographed puck
Mike Ribeiro autographed Montreal Canadiens hat
Saku Koivu McFarlane Sports Pick
Saku Koivu jersey card
Alexei Kovalev jersey card
Andrei Kostitsyn jersey card
Special Edition mini banners from retirement ceremonies of Yvon Cournoyer#12, Dickie Moore #12, and Bernie Geoffrion #5.
Used game ticket from retirement ceremony of Yvon Cournoyer and Dickie Moore
Used game ticket from 1992-1993 Montreal Canadiens championship season (December 13 vs New York Rangers at Madison Square Garden
Used game tickets from 2004, 2006, and 2007 at Bell Centre vs Thrashers, Bruins, and Capitals
Slightly used Montreal Canadiens bumper sticker
Special puck from Canadiens-Hurricanes playoff series 2002, purchased at playoff game
Very used Montreal Canadiens hat (red)
CCM warm-up fleece jacket Montreal Canadiens logo, size M
Pair hockey gloves, Bauer Vapor X, 13", Red White and Blue
Pair hockey socks, Montreal Canadiens red-white-blue pattern (well worn)
Hockey helmet, royal blue
Saku Koivu jersey (vintage third jersey, size L)
Montreal Canadiens white jersey (no name, size L)
Personalized Montreal Canadiens Jersey, home and away (White #5--can remove for buyer before shipping) Red jersey is authentic, size 48. White jersey is replica, size L
Alex Kovalev Team Russia jersey, authentic, size 52--well worn--has been involved in fight, has since been washed
Two Montreal Canadiens -shirts. One is blue Bouillon name and number, size L, other is red with Canadiens logo, size L
Montreal Canadiens logo pendant
Montreal Canadiens logo papel pin
Saku Koivu poster--reads "Courgage"
Montreal Canadiens 1993 Stanley Cup video (VHS)
Montreal Canadiens table-top hockey figure
The Rocket DVD
Game video of Heritage Classic from 2004
Game video of Ottawa Senators vs Montreal Canadiens (late 2001-2002 season--Saku Koivu's first game back from Cancer)
Alexei Kovalev tips and training methods DVD
"The Hockey Sweater" book by Roch Carrier
Slightly used blue Montreal Canadiens hat
Montreal Canadiens Stanley Cup banner: features all years Canadiens won Stanley Cup, except 1916, since it occurred before NHL was formed
All my hopes and fucking dreams
Will accept best offer.
The Team Who Would Be Champions
I have a new philosophy, one that may challenge the very core of my hockey soul. And like any good philosophy or religious creed, I don't mind casting it aside when it doesn't suit me. Bride of Kovalev has shot more holes in this argument than a cheese grater, but I'm giving it a shot.
Once a team has been eliminated in the playoffs, its fans should immediately start cheering for the team that just beat theirs. Imagine how embarassing it was for Bruins fans when, in 2004, the team that upset them proceeded to get swept in the next round. Imagine the perverse sense of pride Habs fans felt when they said, "Hey, at least we got eliminated by the Stanley Cup Champion" when it was all over.
Just like in The Man Who Would Be King, the winning team can say "We're not putting your city to the torch, and we will not rape your daughters. From now on, we are one."
I can honestly say that while I have always Hated* the Bruins (see Neely, Cam), I certainly respect the way they have overcome a HUGE amount of adversity this season. I would also get some sick "I-told-you-so" pleasure in watching Carbonneau's predecessor achieve ultimate victory. This may be a hard pill for the Devils fans who are crying in their beers at this moment, and I can honestly say that my family would disown me and take out full-page ads in the New York Times accusing me of kicking puppies were I to cheer for the Islanders after a victory over the Rangers, but it makes sense in some twisted, roundabout way.
Can't the Habs say that they were second-best in 2004? At the very least, if you get beat by the ultimate winner, isn't that better than losing to someone who goes SPLAT in the next round? I wonder what Leafs fans did in 1993--did they cheer against the team that beat them in game 7 of the Campbell Conference Finals, and by proxy, root FOR the hated Canadiens? Or did they swallow their (minimal--this is the Leafs we're talking about) pride and cheer for the Kings?
Bride of Kovalev has reminded me that I have a second-favorite team, and that I am not permitted to cheer for the Bruins should they win this round. So, should the Habs lose to the Bruins, then, Go Rangers! After all, what was I thinking? I friggin' hate the Bruins. Buncha blue-collar Don-Cherry lovin douchebags.
*English nerds begone! I meant to capitalize "Hated"
Once a team has been eliminated in the playoffs, its fans should immediately start cheering for the team that just beat theirs. Imagine how embarassing it was for Bruins fans when, in 2004, the team that upset them proceeded to get swept in the next round. Imagine the perverse sense of pride Habs fans felt when they said, "Hey, at least we got eliminated by the Stanley Cup Champion" when it was all over.
Just like in The Man Who Would Be King, the winning team can say "We're not putting your city to the torch, and we will not rape your daughters. From now on, we are one."
I can honestly say that while I have always Hated* the Bruins (see Neely, Cam), I certainly respect the way they have overcome a HUGE amount of adversity this season. I would also get some sick "I-told-you-so" pleasure in watching Carbonneau's predecessor achieve ultimate victory. This may be a hard pill for the Devils fans who are crying in their beers at this moment, and I can honestly say that my family would disown me and take out full-page ads in the New York Times accusing me of kicking puppies were I to cheer for the Islanders after a victory over the Rangers, but it makes sense in some twisted, roundabout way.
Can't the Habs say that they were second-best in 2004? At the very least, if you get beat by the ultimate winner, isn't that better than losing to someone who goes SPLAT in the next round? I wonder what Leafs fans did in 1993--did they cheer against the team that beat them in game 7 of the Campbell Conference Finals, and by proxy, root FOR the hated Canadiens? Or did they swallow their (minimal--this is the Leafs we're talking about) pride and cheer for the Kings?
Bride of Kovalev has reminded me that I have a second-favorite team, and that I am not permitted to cheer for the Bruins should they win this round. So, should the Habs lose to the Bruins, then, Go Rangers! After all, what was I thinking? I friggin' hate the Bruins. Buncha blue-collar Don-Cherry lovin douchebags.
*English nerds begone! I meant to capitalize "Hated"
Scores and Standings
D-man (Capt. Sparrow): 46 (45)
Datsyuk (Det)W=1
Hossa, (Pit)
A. Kostitsyn (Mtl)
Campbell, (SJ)
Green (Was)
Nabokov (SJ)
Stoner: 43 (39)
Zetterberg (Det)W=1
Malkin (Pit)
Michalek (SJ)
Pronger (Ana)A,A,W=3
Markov (Mtl)
Fleury (Pit)
Kovalev Jr. (Habsfan1993): 38 (35)
Crosby (Pit)
Cheechoo (SJ)
Murray (Bos)
Rafalski (Det)W=1
Schneider (Ana)W=1
Giguere (Ana)W=1
Go Wings: 38 (33)
Thornton (SJ)
Ovechkin (Was)
Selanne (Ana)G,A,W=4
Streit (Mtl)
Gonchar (Pit)
Hasek (Det)W=1
Michael Corleone: 36 (34)
Kovalev (Mtl)
Iginla (Cal)
Gaborik (Min)
Lidstrom (Det)W=1
Niedermayer (Ana)W=1
Price (Mtl)
So the Rangers eliminate the Devils, and the moment everyone's been waiting for arrives: the handshake between Brodeur and Avery. Well, take a look at this:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uWj3qcddVGU
Avery thinks the best goalie in the world is hitting the Tastykakes. Discuss.
Big games tonight--The Habs try to re-take control of a series that they are very lucky to be leading, Filthydelphia tries to oust the Caps, and the Avalanche, led by a resurgent Jose Theodore try to eliminate the Wild. Oh how funny would it be if the Avs were to play Montreal in Cup Final? It won't happen, but it would be interesting to see.
Montreal 3 - Boston 2
Pittsburgh 4 - Ottawa 0
Washington 1 - Philadelphia 3
New Jersey 1 - New York 4
Detroit 3 - Nashville 2
San Jose 3 - Calgary 2
Minnesota 2 - Colorado 3
Anaheim 2 - Dallas 3
Bride of Kovalev (making some mean leftovers): 36 (32)
Marleau (SJ)
Getzlaf (Ana)G,A,W=4
Plekanec (Mtl)
Whitney (Pit)
Rivet (SJ)
Huet (Was)
Datsyuk (Det)W=1
Hossa, (Pit)
A. Kostitsyn (Mtl)
Campbell, (SJ)
Green (Was)
Nabokov (SJ)
Stoner: 43 (39)
Zetterberg (Det)W=1
Malkin (Pit)
Michalek (SJ)
Pronger (Ana)A,A,W=3
Markov (Mtl)
Fleury (Pit)
Kovalev Jr. (Habsfan1993): 38 (35)
Crosby (Pit)
Cheechoo (SJ)
Murray (Bos)
Rafalski (Det)W=1
Schneider (Ana)W=1
Giguere (Ana)W=1
Go Wings: 38 (33)
Thornton (SJ)
Ovechkin (Was)
Selanne (Ana)G,A,W=4
Streit (Mtl)
Gonchar (Pit)
Hasek (Det)W=1
Michael Corleone: 36 (34)
Kovalev (Mtl)
Iginla (Cal)
Gaborik (Min)
Lidstrom (Det)W=1
Niedermayer (Ana)W=1
Price (Mtl)
So the Rangers eliminate the Devils, and the moment everyone's been waiting for arrives: the handshake between Brodeur and Avery. Well, take a look at this:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uWj3qcddVGU
Avery thinks the best goalie in the world is hitting the Tastykakes. Discuss.
Big games tonight--The Habs try to re-take control of a series that they are very lucky to be leading, Filthydelphia tries to oust the Caps, and the Avalanche, led by a resurgent Jose Theodore try to eliminate the Wild. Oh how funny would it be if the Avs were to play Montreal in Cup Final? It won't happen, but it would be interesting to see.
Montreal 3 - Boston 2
Pittsburgh 4 - Ottawa 0
Washington 1 - Philadelphia 3
New Jersey 1 - New York 4
Detroit 3 - Nashville 2
San Jose 3 - Calgary 2
Minnesota 2 - Colorado 3
Anaheim 2 - Dallas 3
Bride of Kovalev (making some mean leftovers): 36 (32)
Marleau (SJ)
Getzlaf (Ana)G,A,W=4
Plekanec (Mtl)
Whitney (Pit)
Rivet (SJ)
Huet (Was)
Friday, April 18, 2008
Complete and utter Stupidity
I do not like the Montreal Canadiens right now. I hate the players I was watching tonight.
There are two basic foundations for hockey, and most sports: Skill, and Decisions. The cliche is that one can have all the skill in the world, but with bad decisions, one is still nothing. Conversely, one can make all the right decisions, but still fall short of being able to compete because of a lack of skill to implement those decisions.
The Montreal Canadiens tonight, to a man, all made stupid decisions. Not just once, not twice. Every time a player in red touched the puck, he invariably made a stupid decision. That may be harsh, and yes, the Habs played well in the first period. But for the rest of the game, the team lost its collective mind. Markov, Kovalev, Price, both Kostitsyns, Plekanec, Higgins, Ryder, Hamrlik. Each of them made errors so blatant that he would have been benched long before, had the rest of his teammates not also made mind-numbingly stupid decisions that would have created a domino effect of benching the entire team (except for Begin, Kostopoulos, and Smolinski). And since Carbonneau cannot skate just three players and a backup goalie, he had to keep rolling four lines of his retarded bunch of jerks.
I can deal with a team that lacks skill. There is honor and pride in going out and defying expectations. The Bruins did it this season. Believe me, I am taking NOTHING away from the Bruins. They may lack the skill of some NHL teams, but they have made good decisions during the playoffs, and during the regular season. The Canadiens, on the other hand, have shown what skill they possess--I think they have a wealth of it. They also showed tonight that they do not give a damn about making good decisions. I don't know what the problem is, but until they figure it out, I will be furious with this team. I might prefer them to lose this series than to slip past a deserving opponent.
The Bruins, no matter what happens, deserve to win this series. The Canadiens are arrogant and stupid. Note: I checked my thesaurus and I cannot find a word stronger than the word "stupid," so it will have to suffice for now. If Boston does win this series, count me in on the bandwagon for the rest of their playoff ride. Hockey fans deserve a team that uses both skill and good decisions.
Maybe the Habs will bounce back next game. But I hope to Christ that they actually play. I was incredibly unhappy with the way they won on Tuesday (luck) and as far as I'm concerned, they have been a disgraceful bunch of frauds ever since game two began. If the Habs win that way on Saturday, it will be a very hard pill to swallow, knowing that the Bruins were better than the Habs, and yet justice was not served. I want a fair series. I want Montreal to play like Montreal.
But somehow, I don't think Montreal will do that, and I do not think they will win another game.
There are two basic foundations for hockey, and most sports: Skill, and Decisions. The cliche is that one can have all the skill in the world, but with bad decisions, one is still nothing. Conversely, one can make all the right decisions, but still fall short of being able to compete because of a lack of skill to implement those decisions.
The Montreal Canadiens tonight, to a man, all made stupid decisions. Not just once, not twice. Every time a player in red touched the puck, he invariably made a stupid decision. That may be harsh, and yes, the Habs played well in the first period. But for the rest of the game, the team lost its collective mind. Markov, Kovalev, Price, both Kostitsyns, Plekanec, Higgins, Ryder, Hamrlik. Each of them made errors so blatant that he would have been benched long before, had the rest of his teammates not also made mind-numbingly stupid decisions that would have created a domino effect of benching the entire team (except for Begin, Kostopoulos, and Smolinski). And since Carbonneau cannot skate just three players and a backup goalie, he had to keep rolling four lines of his retarded bunch of jerks.
I can deal with a team that lacks skill. There is honor and pride in going out and defying expectations. The Bruins did it this season. Believe me, I am taking NOTHING away from the Bruins. They may lack the skill of some NHL teams, but they have made good decisions during the playoffs, and during the regular season. The Canadiens, on the other hand, have shown what skill they possess--I think they have a wealth of it. They also showed tonight that they do not give a damn about making good decisions. I don't know what the problem is, but until they figure it out, I will be furious with this team. I might prefer them to lose this series than to slip past a deserving opponent.
The Bruins, no matter what happens, deserve to win this series. The Canadiens are arrogant and stupid. Note: I checked my thesaurus and I cannot find a word stronger than the word "stupid," so it will have to suffice for now. If Boston does win this series, count me in on the bandwagon for the rest of their playoff ride. Hockey fans deserve a team that uses both skill and good decisions.
Maybe the Habs will bounce back next game. But I hope to Christ that they actually play. I was incredibly unhappy with the way they won on Tuesday (luck) and as far as I'm concerned, they have been a disgraceful bunch of frauds ever since game two began. If the Habs win that way on Saturday, it will be a very hard pill to swallow, knowing that the Bruins were better than the Habs, and yet justice was not served. I want a fair series. I want Montreal to play like Montreal.
But somehow, I don't think Montreal will do that, and I do not think they will win another game.
Scores and Standings
D-man: 45 (41)
Datsyuk (Det)
Hossa, (Pit)
A. Kostitsyn (Mtl)0
Campbell, (SJ)A,W=2
Green (Was)A=1
Nabokov (SJ)W=1
Stoner: 39 (38)
Zetterberg (Det)
Malkin (Pit)
Michalek (SJ)W=1
Pronger (Ana)0
Markov (Mtl)0
Fleury (Pit)
Michael Corleone: 34 (29)
Kovalev (Mtl)G=2
Iginla (Cal)G,A=3
Gaborik (Min)0
Lidstrom (Det)
Niedermayer (Ana)0
Price (Mtl)0
Kovalev Jr.: 35 (27)
Crosby (Pit)
Cheechoo (SJ)G,G,W=5
Murray (Bos)W=1
Rafalski (Det)
Schneider (Ana)G=2
Giguere (Ana)0
Go Wings: 33 (29)
Thornton (SJ)A,W=2
Ovechkin (Was)A,A=2
Selanne (Ana)0
Streit (Mtl)0
Gonchar (Pit)
Hasek (Det)
I don't know what's worse. That Montreal lost because they played like a bunch of retards, or that Glen Murray did absolutely nothing for me last night. He's supposed to be the Hab killer.
Montreal 3 - Boston 2
Pittsburgh 4 - Ottawa 0
Washington 1 - Philadelphia 3
New Jersey 1 - New York 3
Detroit 2 - Nashville 2
San Jose 3 - Calgary 2
Minnesota 2 - Colorado 3
Anaheim 1 - Dallas 3
Bride of Kovalev (making some mean leftovers): 32 (26)
Marleau (SJ)G,A,W=4
Getzlaf (Ana)0
Plekanec (Mtl)0
Whitney (Pit)
Rivet (SJ)A,W=2
Huet (Was)0
Datsyuk (Det)
Hossa, (Pit)
A. Kostitsyn (Mtl)0
Campbell, (SJ)A,W=2
Green (Was)A=1
Nabokov (SJ)W=1
Stoner: 39 (38)
Zetterberg (Det)
Malkin (Pit)
Michalek (SJ)W=1
Pronger (Ana)0
Markov (Mtl)0
Fleury (Pit)
Michael Corleone: 34 (29)
Kovalev (Mtl)G=2
Iginla (Cal)G,A=3
Gaborik (Min)0
Lidstrom (Det)
Niedermayer (Ana)0
Price (Mtl)0
Kovalev Jr.: 35 (27)
Crosby (Pit)
Cheechoo (SJ)G,G,W=5
Murray (Bos)W=1
Rafalski (Det)
Schneider (Ana)G=2
Giguere (Ana)0
Go Wings: 33 (29)
Thornton (SJ)A,W=2
Ovechkin (Was)A,A=2
Selanne (Ana)0
Streit (Mtl)0
Gonchar (Pit)
Hasek (Det)
I don't know what's worse. That Montreal lost because they played like a bunch of retards, or that Glen Murray did absolutely nothing for me last night. He's supposed to be the Hab killer.
Montreal 3 - Boston 2
Pittsburgh 4 - Ottawa 0
Washington 1 - Philadelphia 3
New Jersey 1 - New York 3
Detroit 2 - Nashville 2
San Jose 3 - Calgary 2
Minnesota 2 - Colorado 3
Anaheim 1 - Dallas 3
Bride of Kovalev (making some mean leftovers): 32 (26)
Marleau (SJ)G,A,W=4
Getzlaf (Ana)0
Plekanec (Mtl)0
Whitney (Pit)
Rivet (SJ)A,W=2
Huet (Was)0
Thursday, April 17, 2008
No, seriously: WTF?
Catfish.
Nashville Predators fans seem to think that a good response to the Wings' legendary octopus is a nice, fresh catfish. Traditions come and go, but stupidity, it seems, is timeless.
A History lesson. Back in the 50's, a team had to win two best-of-seven playoff series to win the Stanley Cup. Two brothers who owned a fish market in Detroit thought the eight-legged octopus would be appropriate to symbolize the eight straight wins they were hoping for. They threw the octopus on the ice during game 1 of the first round, the Wings went on to win eight straight, and the legend was born. This tradition saw a revival of sorts when the Wings introduced an octopus mascot in the mid-90's, coinciding with a revival of the team's success. It became very fashionable to sneak one of the cephalopods into the rink in order to throw upon the ice when one was feeling particularly giddy about the Wings.
So Nashville fans feel they need an answer. Hmmm, well a pair of spiders doesn't really work. A banjo would be appropriately local, but mighty hard to sneak into the rink. Throwing Garth Brooks on the ice would be counterproductive. I know! Catfish are sort of seafood, like octopi--they smell bad, and lots of folks round Nashville like to eat them some catfish, right? (I can see Dave Chappelle's race pixie going crazy as we speak.) So Nashville fans start throwing Catfish on the ice, and hilarity ensues. Do they realize that this makes them look even MORE ridiculous in the eyes of real hockey fans? If they want to really show some local tradition, they ought to be throwing dollar bills on the ice to reflect that their team earns no money, won't partake of profit-sharing because of low attendance, and can't compete with the Grand Ole Opry for airtime or revenue.
This hearkens back to the 1996 playoffs when Miami hockey fans (does that even make SENSE?!?) starting throwing rats on the ice and at goalies. The league quickly intervened, because Panthers fans, like most nascent sports fans who think success equals tradition, took it too damn far. Hey, at least there was a funny, albeit gruesome, story behind the Rat Trick in Florida. The catfish? It just stinks.
Nashville Predators fans seem to think that a good response to the Wings' legendary octopus is a nice, fresh catfish. Traditions come and go, but stupidity, it seems, is timeless.
A History lesson. Back in the 50's, a team had to win two best-of-seven playoff series to win the Stanley Cup. Two brothers who owned a fish market in Detroit thought the eight-legged octopus would be appropriate to symbolize the eight straight wins they were hoping for. They threw the octopus on the ice during game 1 of the first round, the Wings went on to win eight straight, and the legend was born. This tradition saw a revival of sorts when the Wings introduced an octopus mascot in the mid-90's, coinciding with a revival of the team's success. It became very fashionable to sneak one of the cephalopods into the rink in order to throw upon the ice when one was feeling particularly giddy about the Wings.
So Nashville fans feel they need an answer. Hmmm, well a pair of spiders doesn't really work. A banjo would be appropriately local, but mighty hard to sneak into the rink. Throwing Garth Brooks on the ice would be counterproductive. I know! Catfish are sort of seafood, like octopi--they smell bad, and lots of folks round Nashville like to eat them some catfish, right? (I can see Dave Chappelle's race pixie going crazy as we speak.) So Nashville fans start throwing Catfish on the ice, and hilarity ensues. Do they realize that this makes them look even MORE ridiculous in the eyes of real hockey fans? If they want to really show some local tradition, they ought to be throwing dollar bills on the ice to reflect that their team earns no money, won't partake of profit-sharing because of low attendance, and can't compete with the Grand Ole Opry for airtime or revenue.
This hearkens back to the 1996 playoffs when Miami hockey fans (does that even make SENSE?!?) starting throwing rats on the ice and at goalies. The league quickly intervened, because Panthers fans, like most nascent sports fans who think success equals tradition, took it too damn far. Hey, at least there was a funny, albeit gruesome, story behind the Rat Trick in Florida. The catfish? It just stinks.
Scores and Standings
D-man: 41 (36)
Datsyuk (Det)G,G=4
Hossa, (Pit)W=1
A. Kostitsyn (Mtl)
Campbell, (SJ)
Green (Was)
Nabokov (SJ)
Stoner: 38 (33)
Zetterberg (Det)A=1
Malkin (Pit)G,W=3
Michalek (SJ)
Pronger (Ana)
Markov (Mtl)
Fleury (Pit)W=1
Michael Corleone: 29
Kovalev (Mtl)
Iginla (Cal)
Gaborik (Min)
Lidstrom (Det)0
Niedermayer (Ana)
Price (Mtl)
Go Wings: 29 (27)
Thornton (SJ)
Ovechkin (Was)
Selanne (Ana)
Streit (Mtl)
Gonchar (Pit)A,W=2
Hasek (Det)0
Kovalev Jr.: 27 (22)
Crosby (Pit)G,A,W=4
Cheechoo (SJ)
Murray (Bos)
Rafalski (Det)A=1
Schneider (Ana)
Giguere (Ana)
I am going to be diplomatic and ask what everyone else thinks of the Wings. One of my observations is that while everyone took an obligatory Wing on their team (Bride of Kovy excepted), no one was confident enough to take two or more Red Wings on their team. It almost seems that people were saying, "Well, I guess I should take a Detroit player just in case they go far. I'd look like an idiot if I didn't take ONE player."
Correct me if I'm wrong.
Crosby to Alfredsson: "The circle is now complete. When I left you, I was but a learner. Now I am the Master." Alfredsson proceeds to hold up his stick and get beheaded.
NHL.com says the Penguins will play the winner of the Rangers-Devils series unless the Bruins win, but I have an issue with that. If all four top-seeded teams advance, shouldn't the Penguins be up against the Capitals? It would be #1 vs #4 and #2(Pittsburgh) against #3(Washington).
Basically, it proves once again that the NHL is run like a goddamn circus. The NCAA doesn't re-seed teams after each round. The NFL doesn't do it. Why should the NHL? Make a friggin bracket and stick to it.
Montreal 3 - Boston 1
Pittsburgh 4 - Ottawa 0
Washington 1 - Philadelphia 2
New Jersey 1 - New York 3
Detroit 2 - Nashville 2
San Jose 2 - Calgary 2
Minnesota 2 - Colorado 2
Anaheim 1 - Dallas 2
J's Leftovers: 26 (25)
Marleau (SJ)
Getzlaf (Ana)
Plekanec (Mtl)
Whitney (Pit)W=1
Rivet (SJ)
Huet (Was)
Datsyuk (Det)G,G=4
Hossa, (Pit)W=1
A. Kostitsyn (Mtl)
Campbell, (SJ)
Green (Was)
Nabokov (SJ)
Stoner: 38 (33)
Zetterberg (Det)A=1
Malkin (Pit)G,W=3
Michalek (SJ)
Pronger (Ana)
Markov (Mtl)
Fleury (Pit)W=1
Michael Corleone: 29
Kovalev (Mtl)
Iginla (Cal)
Gaborik (Min)
Lidstrom (Det)0
Niedermayer (Ana)
Price (Mtl)
Go Wings: 29 (27)
Thornton (SJ)
Ovechkin (Was)
Selanne (Ana)
Streit (Mtl)
Gonchar (Pit)A,W=2
Hasek (Det)0
Kovalev Jr.: 27 (22)
Crosby (Pit)G,A,W=4
Cheechoo (SJ)
Murray (Bos)
Rafalski (Det)A=1
Schneider (Ana)
Giguere (Ana)
I am going to be diplomatic and ask what everyone else thinks of the Wings. One of my observations is that while everyone took an obligatory Wing on their team (Bride of Kovy excepted), no one was confident enough to take two or more Red Wings on their team. It almost seems that people were saying, "Well, I guess I should take a Detroit player just in case they go far. I'd look like an idiot if I didn't take ONE player."
Correct me if I'm wrong.
Crosby to Alfredsson: "The circle is now complete. When I left you, I was but a learner. Now I am the Master." Alfredsson proceeds to hold up his stick and get beheaded.
NHL.com says the Penguins will play the winner of the Rangers-Devils series unless the Bruins win, but I have an issue with that. If all four top-seeded teams advance, shouldn't the Penguins be up against the Capitals? It would be #1 vs #4 and #2(Pittsburgh) against #3(Washington).
Basically, it proves once again that the NHL is run like a goddamn circus. The NCAA doesn't re-seed teams after each round. The NFL doesn't do it. Why should the NHL? Make a friggin bracket and stick to it.
Montreal 3 - Boston 1
Pittsburgh 4 - Ottawa 0
Washington 1 - Philadelphia 2
New Jersey 1 - New York 3
Detroit 2 - Nashville 2
San Jose 2 - Calgary 2
Minnesota 2 - Colorado 2
Anaheim 1 - Dallas 2
J's Leftovers: 26 (25)
Marleau (SJ)
Getzlaf (Ana)
Plekanec (Mtl)
Whitney (Pit)W=1
Rivet (SJ)
Huet (Was)
Wednesday, April 16, 2008
Oooh look at me, I'm a sanctimonious prick with a blog!
Some ground rules. I swear I will not adopt the self-important tone that most assholes with a blog seem to assume. I'm posting scores and standings from my playoff pool. Which I have never won. So really, I obviously don't know jack about hockey. At least not as much as the other folks on here. I'll post the standings, with some talking points I want to get off my chest. Y'all can take it from there. Or not.
Scores and Standings
Some effed up crap is keeping the format weird. Please rest assured your business is important to us--we are looking into the problem. Sincerely, American Airlines.
D-Man: 36 (29)
Datsyuk (Det)
Hossa, (Pit)
A. Kostitsyn (Mtl)A,W=2
Campbell, (SJ)W=1
Green (Was)G,A=3
Nabokov (SJ)W=1
D-Man: 36 (29)
Datsyuk (Det)
Hossa, (Pit)
A. Kostitsyn (Mtl)A,W=2
Campbell, (SJ)W=1
Green (Was)G,A=3
Nabokov (SJ)W=1
Stoner: 33 (25)
Zetterberg (Det)
Malkin (Pit)
Michalek (SJ)W=1
Pronger (Ana)G,G,A,W=6
Markov (Mtl)W=1
Fleury (Pit)
Michael Corleone: 29 (21)
Kovalev (Mtl)A,W=2
Iginla (Cal)G,A=3
Gaborik (Min)0
Lidstrom (Det)
Niedermayer (Ana)W=1
Price (Mtl)SO=2
Go Wings: 27 (19)
Thornton (SJ)G,A,W=4
Ovechkin (Was)A=1
Selanne (Ana)A,W=2
Streit (Mtl)W=1
Gonchar (Pit)
Hasek (Det)
Kovalev Jr.: 22 (17)
Crosby (Pit)
Cheechoo (SJ)G,W=3
Murray (Bos)0
Rafalski (Det)
Schneider (Ana)W=1
Giguere (Ana)W=1
Last night saw us all earn a lot of points, but the standings remain the same.
Montreal plays like a bunch of little girls, in the words of Thomas Plekanec, and still manages to win. Joe Thornton finally shows up for his playoff party, and lo and behold, the Sharks are even with the Flames. Welcome to the playoffs, Joe.
I found this picture online, and thought I'd share. That's Alex Ovechkin and Andrei Markov hanging out and obviously enjoying, uh, the company...
Montreal 3 - Boston 1
Pittsburgh 3 - Ottawa 0
Washington 1 - Philadelphia 2
New York 2 - New Jersey 1
Detroit 2 - Nashville 1
San Jose 2 - Calgary 2
Minnesota 2 - Colorado 2
Anaheim 1 - Dallas 2
Bride of Kovy: 25 (17)
Marleau (SJ)A,W=2
Getzlaf (Ana)G,A,W=4
Plekanec (Mtl)W=1
Whitney (Pit)
Rivet (SJ)W=1
Huet (Was)0
Zetterberg (Det)
Malkin (Pit)
Michalek (SJ)W=1
Pronger (Ana)G,G,A,W=6
Markov (Mtl)W=1
Fleury (Pit)
Michael Corleone: 29 (21)
Kovalev (Mtl)A,W=2
Iginla (Cal)G,A=3
Gaborik (Min)0
Lidstrom (Det)
Niedermayer (Ana)W=1
Price (Mtl)SO=2
Go Wings: 27 (19)
Thornton (SJ)G,A,W=4
Ovechkin (Was)A=1
Selanne (Ana)A,W=2
Streit (Mtl)W=1
Gonchar (Pit)
Hasek (Det)
Kovalev Jr.: 22 (17)
Crosby (Pit)
Cheechoo (SJ)G,W=3
Murray (Bos)0
Rafalski (Det)
Schneider (Ana)W=1
Giguere (Ana)W=1
Last night saw us all earn a lot of points, but the standings remain the same.
Montreal plays like a bunch of little girls, in the words of Thomas Plekanec, and still manages to win. Joe Thornton finally shows up for his playoff party, and lo and behold, the Sharks are even with the Flames. Welcome to the playoffs, Joe.
I found this picture online, and thought I'd share. That's Alex Ovechkin and Andrei Markov hanging out and obviously enjoying, uh, the company...
Montreal 3 - Boston 1
Pittsburgh 3 - Ottawa 0
Washington 1 - Philadelphia 2
New York 2 - New Jersey 1
Detroit 2 - Nashville 1
San Jose 2 - Calgary 2
Minnesota 2 - Colorado 2
Anaheim 1 - Dallas 2
Bride of Kovy: 25 (17)
Marleau (SJ)A,W=2
Getzlaf (Ana)G,A,W=4
Plekanec (Mtl)W=1
Whitney (Pit)
Rivet (SJ)W=1
Huet (Was)0
First Post Ever!
Well, don't that beat all. I can't think of anything to write about. This website will function mainly as a thinly veiled front for my hockey pool, with clever names for the participants. I figured our discussions merited posting for all the world to see. Right.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)