Tuesday, May 27, 2008
Bold Prediction: Wings in Six
Yes, I planned to have a prediction post done last Friday, but real life and laziness got in the way. Besides, everyone and their dogs have posted a prediction for the series, so it's not like the hockey world is missing the content.
My original prediction was the Wings in 6, but even that might be a bit generous to the Penguins given how thoroughly they've been pwned in Games 1 and 2.
Instead of doing a detailed analysis, I can say that the primary asset that the Wings have in spades is EXPERIENCE. Look at any past cup winner, and you see loads and loads of playoff experience.
The Wings have Lidstrom, Holmstrom, McCarty, Rafalski, Hasek, Osgood, Chelios, Draper, Maltby who have Cup rings, plus other crusty veterans like Dallas Drake and Brad Stuart. These guys have been there, done that, and have the T-shirts to prove it.
The Penguins? They have Gary Roberts, whose idea of leadership is to go after the concussed head of Johan Franzen, and Petr Sykora as cup winners. Gonchar is really the only other big-time old guy they got goin.
Oh, I guess Ty Conklin has cup experience, although he's likely tried very hard to forget that. Hossa? He hasn't done THAT much in the playoffs until this season.
So, the Wings know what the deep playoffs are like, and know how to handle all of the pressure. They are calm, cool, collected, and playing like the well-oiled machine we know them to be. The Wings were way better than anyone else at preventing shots against, and have held the Penguins to just 41 shots and 0 goals in 2 games. Kinda hard to score with 20.5 shots per game.
The Penguins are clearly frustrated.
Sidney Crosby? He's visibly frustrated at the Wings ability to choke the neutral zone and hem the Penguins in their own zone. Seeing him swear his head off is rather disconcerting.
Evgeni Malkin? Is he even playing? It's hard to notice. Did he suddenly remember that Russians aren't supposed to play hard when the calendar nears June?
It's pretty much a golden rule in the Stanley Cup playoffs that the most experienced team will win, especially when the gap is wider than Tara Reid's genitals.
I just hope the Penguins can take Game Three and turn this into a respectable series. The fact that the Pens are down 2-0 wouldn't be so bad if they were actually putting up a fight, but we know that hasn't been the case.
*sigh*
My original prediction was the Wings in 6, but even that might be a bit generous to the Penguins given how thoroughly they've been pwned in Games 1 and 2.
Instead of doing a detailed analysis, I can say that the primary asset that the Wings have in spades is EXPERIENCE. Look at any past cup winner, and you see loads and loads of playoff experience.
The Wings have Lidstrom, Holmstrom, McCarty, Rafalski, Hasek, Osgood, Chelios, Draper, Maltby who have Cup rings, plus other crusty veterans like Dallas Drake and Brad Stuart. These guys have been there, done that, and have the T-shirts to prove it.
The Penguins? They have Gary Roberts, whose idea of leadership is to go after the concussed head of Johan Franzen, and Petr Sykora as cup winners. Gonchar is really the only other big-time old guy they got goin.
Oh, I guess Ty Conklin has cup experience, although he's likely tried very hard to forget that. Hossa? He hasn't done THAT much in the playoffs until this season.
So, the Wings know what the deep playoffs are like, and know how to handle all of the pressure. They are calm, cool, collected, and playing like the well-oiled machine we know them to be. The Wings were way better than anyone else at preventing shots against, and have held the Penguins to just 41 shots and 0 goals in 2 games. Kinda hard to score with 20.5 shots per game.
The Penguins are clearly frustrated.
Sidney Crosby? He's visibly frustrated at the Wings ability to choke the neutral zone and hem the Penguins in their own zone. Seeing him swear his head off is rather disconcerting.
Evgeni Malkin? Is he even playing? It's hard to notice. Did he suddenly remember that Russians aren't supposed to play hard when the calendar nears June?
It's pretty much a golden rule in the Stanley Cup playoffs that the most experienced team will win, especially when the gap is wider than Tara Reid's genitals.
I just hope the Penguins can take Game Three and turn this into a respectable series. The fact that the Pens are down 2-0 wouldn't be so bad if they were actually putting up a fight, but we know that hasn't been the case.
*sigh*
Labels: finals, Penguins, playoffs, Red Wings
Wednesday, May 21, 2008
The Early Conn Smythe Winner? Henrik Zetterberg
With Johan Franzen's injury causing him to miss the Stars/Wings series, the Conn Smythe race has opened up to a whole swath of contenders, mainly the big names and usual suspects.
Right now, Sidney Crosby and Henrik Zetterberg sit 1-2 in the scoring race, with the likes of Malkin, Hossa(!), and Datsyuk not far behind.
Of course, we can't forget the starting goaltenders, both of whom have had an incredible playoff run.
Osbad: 13GP 10-2 1.60GAA 93.1SV%
Fleury: 14GP 12-2 1.70GAA 93.8SV%
Despite the fact that Osgood has a career full of mediocrity, and Fleury has had his growing pains, both goalies are practically 'money' right about now, and are neck and neck in terms on stats.
Of course, I'm loathe to give evil goalies too much credit, so I'd want them to prove themselves a bit more before I put them in Crosby-Zetterberg territory.
Right now, Sidney Crosby and Henrik Zetterberg sit 1-2 in the scoring race, with the likes of Malkin, Hossa(!), and Datsyuk not far behind.
Name Team GP G A Pts +/-
Sidney Crosby PIT 14 4 17 21 6
Henrik Zetterberg DET 16 11 10 21 15
Marian Hossa PIT 14 9 10 19 7
Pavel Datsyuk DET 16 9 10 19 12
Evgeni Malkin PIT 14 9 10 19 5
While Crosby does have 2 less games played than Zetterberg,
I'd give Zetterberg the edge in the Conn Smythe race because goals are far more important than assists, and 7 is a large margin. Zetterberg also has a better +/-, and over twice as many shots on goal taken than The Kid.
Of course, we can't forget the starting goaltenders, both of whom have had an incredible playoff run.
Osbad: 13GP 10-2 1.60GAA 93.1SV%
Fleury: 14GP 12-2 1.70GAA 93.8SV%
Despite the fact that Osgood has a career full of mediocrity, and Fleury has had his growing pains, both goalies are practically 'money' right about now, and are neck and neck in terms on stats.
Of course, I'm loathe to give evil goalies too much credit, so I'd want them to prove themselves a bit more before I put them in Crosby-Zetterberg territory.
Labels: Chris Osgood, Conn Smythe, Henrik Zetterberg, playoffs, sidney crosby
Sunday, May 18, 2008
The World Championships Are On?
You'd think with the World Championships in Canada, I'd blog about the tournament somewhat.
But, how can anyone with a day job blog about a tournament that plays its game at 11AM? Yes, I know the times are set for the European audience, but it seems rather foolish to have Canada's game in the morning when nobody can watch them. Why not have Canada's games, at the very least, during the evening? *sigh*
So, here are some highlights, courtesy of TSN, from the tournament that nobody around here seems to be watching.
Highlight #2 is sick...
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The Czech uniforms from this tournament are ... hideous! Red armpits, WTF?
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Southern Correspondent Wayne shares some thoughts on the PIT-PHI series.
But, how can anyone with a day job blog about a tournament that plays its game at 11AM? Yes, I know the times are set for the European audience, but it seems rather foolish to have Canada's game in the morning when nobody can watch them. Why not have Canada's games, at the very least, during the evening? *sigh*
So, here are some highlights, courtesy of TSN, from the tournament that nobody around here seems to be watching.
Highlight #2 is sick...
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The Czech uniforms from this tournament are ... hideous! Red armpits, WTF?
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Southern Correspondent Wayne shares some thoughts on the PIT-PHI series.
Once the Flyers scored the empty net goal to put the game away, why didn't the Pens' coach take Crosby out and put in Georges Laraque? I don't think fights at the end of games "to send a message" makes much sense, but it was obvious something was gonna happen...
Every time I see Don Cherry with those loud coats, I can't help but think of an old sketch on the old Carol Burnett Show. A comedy classic, it was the "Gone With the Wind" parody which had Ms. Burnett (as Scarlett O'Hara) descending down a flight of stairs wearing drapes (curtains and rod) saying, "I saw it in the window and just had to try it on"...
Proof that Versus (cable TV's witness-protection program) has a tiny viewership: if Chris Simpson were a sideline reporter in any other sport, fans would be making signs saying, "Marry me, Chris Simpson"...
I think Thrasher fans may have dodged a bullet: Dave Nonis interviewed for the Maple Laffs job this week...
Labels: playoffs, Team Czech, World Championships
Friday, May 16, 2008
Dear Sidney, Please Shave That Mess Off!
It's an annual rite of spring that hockey players grow disgusting-looking beards as they march on towards the Stanley Cup. It's one of the great, unique features of the NHL, and gives guys a real excuse not to shave for a couple of months.
The sad fact is, however, that some guys just can't pull it off, and should just get out the Gillette Mach 3's and get back to their regular shaving rituals.
One such guy is our beloved Sidney Crosby, who has been trying his very hardest to be a big boy and grow a playoff beard. It's really quite sad to see him fail so miserably, given how he's basically kicked ass at everything else in the hockey world.
Now, before you go getting up in my ass about being 'mean', you have realize that Sidney and I share the same slow facial-hair growth that doesn't allow us to look like the Wolf Man. I'm 29, and have to shave only once a week. Ivan Majesky, I am not.
Two years ago, when the Canes went on their long playoff run, I tried to grow a playoff beard just for the hell of it. Despite my efforts, and despite waiting a couple of months, I could never grow a full beard. Much like Sid, it looks like I had a random mass of spots on my neck and face that just refused to allow hair follicles to escape into freedom.
Sidney is just too much of a babyface to pull off a beard, anyway, and comes off looking like trailer trash, albeit well-paid trailer trash. Looking at home now, don't you think he'd be better off sitting on a ratty couch, watching fishing shows, and drinking Bud Light swill?
"But Jes, what if the Penguins lose because Sidney shaved his face?"
Oh, so the Penguins talent, hard work, and tenacious forechecking have nothing to do with their success? It's all about facial hair?
*facepalm*
I'd sent Sid some free razorblades, but I'd probably be arrested for mailing weapons or some BS the corrupt authorities would come up with to suppress my rights.
So, next time any of you Pittsburghers you go to a Pens game, bring a sign/placard that asks Sid to get a shave. He needs it.
Labels: playoff beard, playoffs, sidney crosby
Tuesday, May 13, 2008
Tuesday's Tight Thoughts
While the Nashville Predators gave the Wings some fits with their physical, grinding play, the finesse of the Colorado Avalanche and Dallas Stars has allowed Detroit to easily roll into the Stanley Cup Finals.
Yes, I know the Stars/Wings series is not officially over, but the Stars have as much chance for a comeback as Hilary Clinton. It ain't gonna happen, as we all know.
Wayne, our Southern Correspondent, charms in:
In a topic I've covered before, Wings fans just aren't coming out to pack Joe Louis Arena. Combine a bad economy with a spoiled fanbase, and you get empty seats.
Wayne chips in again:
Well, Detroit certainly isn't a 'soft' market, and the NHL is probably going to realize that American fans might have to cut expensive NHL tickets out of their budget as food and gas prices soar. It's rather troubling that 'Hockeytown' (self-billed, I know) can't sell out a Conference Finals playoff match.
At least the Flyers/Pens series is entertaining, if not entirely one-sided. The Flyers' are getting punished for taking penalties, and Martin Biron is not the answer to the question, "What goalie is going to take us to the Stanley Cup?"
Yes, I know the Stars/Wings series is not officially over, but the Stars have as much chance for a comeback as Hilary Clinton. It ain't gonna happen, as we all know.
Wayne, our Southern Correspondent, charms in:
Could someone put the Stars-Wings series out of its misery? I tuned to a hockey game, and a soccer game broke out...The only thing missing was the voice of John Paul Della-Camera (the second greatest soccer announcer ever)...No wonder Wings fans are staying home...
In a topic I've covered before, Wings fans just aren't coming out to pack Joe Louis Arena. Combine a bad economy with a spoiled fanbase, and you get empty seats.
Wayne chips in again:
Take a look at things right now: $4/gallon gas, homes being forclosed, layoffs in the white-collar/middle-and-upper management sector (the people who buy season tix and luxury boxes), make MLB, the NBA, and the NHL (especially the NHL) particularly vulnerable...I don't think people are going to be willing to plunk down $60/ticket much longer, especially in soft markets. All NHL teams are going to have to take a good hard look at themselves...
Well, Detroit certainly isn't a 'soft' market, and the NHL is probably going to realize that American fans might have to cut expensive NHL tickets out of their budget as food and gas prices soar. It's rather troubling that 'Hockeytown' (self-billed, I know) can't sell out a Conference Finals playoff match.
At least the Flyers/Pens series is entertaining, if not entirely one-sided. The Flyers' are getting punished for taking penalties, and Martin Biron is not the answer to the question, "What goalie is going to take us to the Stanley Cup?"
Labels: attendance, flyers, musings, Penguins, playoffs, Red Wings
Thursday, May 08, 2008
Whiner of the Day: Michel Brule
Despite some of the things I've written on this blog in the past, I don't hold any ill will towards the people of Quebec. Hell, Poutine is one of my favourite guilty pleasures. Mmmm, cheese curds ... *drool*
That said, I cannot stand whiny separatist snobs who feel the need to force others to do things in French. You know, have a French-speaking captain on the Habs, have French signs for shops, have French fries with every meal, etc ... it's quite silly. While I understand that certain people feel their culture is threatened, it's quite another to constantly whine about it, and force people to cave in to the wishes of a vocal minority. It's not as if Quebec doesn't get a disproportionate share of federal funding, is it?
The latest whiner: Michel Brule, a fellow who is pooping his diapers because the Habs aren't playing enough French music at the Bell Centre.
Let's see ...
1. Has a petition EVER worked? Maybe once or twice, but that's it. You know the TV show FAMILY GUY? It didn't return to the tube after a petition circulated, it came back to the tube because people went out and bought a lot of DVDs. Speak with your wallet if you want some real change. If people stopped going to Habs games over this music issue (and they won't), then you might actually be doing something. Signing a piece of paper is simply an empty action designed to make people feel better about themselves, while not actually accomplishing anything.
2. The Canadiens are a privately held club, playing in a privately-owned arena, charging people money for the privilege of watching a hockey in this privately-owned building. Why should anyone be able to tell the Habs what music they can play?
If Brule wants to listen to French music, perhaps he ought to spend his money at a concert, instead. The Habs are a business venture, and they obviously feel it is in their best interest to play English-language music.
3. Snobby Francophones like this Crème Brule fellow seem to think that the world is divided into Anglophones and Francophones, as if the rest of the non-French speaking world is all the same. Come to Vancouver some time, and you'll soon realize that most 'Anglophones' aren't even 1% British, and many of them speak another language.
(Hat-tip to 'hockeychic')
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Playoff Predictions?
Well, I went 3-for-4 in the second round, which is much better than the 6-for-12 record I compiled for Round One.
Philly vs Pittsburgh is the must-watch series, and this will feature a lot of offensive chances, physical play, and bad blood. I'll take Pittsburgh in 6.
Detroit vs. Dallas is the must-not-watch series, given how both Dallas and Detroit can slow down the game to a crawl.
I know I shouldn't keep betting against Dallas, but I'll maintain that it takes a physical team to beat Detroit, and Dallas is more finesse than brutish. Detroit in 5.
That said, I cannot stand whiny separatist snobs who feel the need to force others to do things in French. You know, have a French-speaking captain on the Habs, have French signs for shops, have French fries with every meal, etc ... it's quite silly. While I understand that certain people feel their culture is threatened, it's quite another to constantly whine about it, and force people to cave in to the wishes of a vocal minority. It's not as if Quebec doesn't get a disproportionate share of federal funding, is it?
The latest whiner: Michel Brule, a fellow who is pooping his diapers because the Habs aren't playing enough French music at the Bell Centre.
A prominent Quebec publisher is calling on governments to force the Montreal Canadiens to spin more French-language tunes for the Bell Centre crowd.A single tear rolls down my cheek ...
Michel Brule said he was shocked the team's DJ played one French song during Game 7 of the Habs' first-round playoff series against the Boston Bruins.
"We are not in Raleigh, (North) Carolina, we are not in Philadelphia, we are in Montreal and we are in Quebec," said Brule, publisher of Les Editions des Intouchables.
"Anglophones think the only language on the planet is English."
Let's see ...
1. Has a petition EVER worked? Maybe once or twice, but that's it. You know the TV show FAMILY GUY? It didn't return to the tube after a petition circulated, it came back to the tube because people went out and bought a lot of DVDs. Speak with your wallet if you want some real change. If people stopped going to Habs games over this music issue (and they won't), then you might actually be doing something. Signing a piece of paper is simply an empty action designed to make people feel better about themselves, while not actually accomplishing anything.
2. The Canadiens are a privately held club, playing in a privately-owned arena, charging people money for the privilege of watching a hockey in this privately-owned building. Why should anyone be able to tell the Habs what music they can play?
If Brule wants to listen to French music, perhaps he ought to spend his money at a concert, instead. The Habs are a business venture, and they obviously feel it is in their best interest to play English-language music.
3. Snobby Francophones like this Crème Brule fellow seem to think that the world is divided into Anglophones and Francophones, as if the rest of the non-French speaking world is all the same. Come to Vancouver some time, and you'll soon realize that most 'Anglophones' aren't even 1% British, and many of them speak another language.
(Hat-tip to 'hockeychic')
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Playoff Predictions?
Well, I went 3-for-4 in the second round, which is much better than the 6-for-12 record I compiled for Round One.
Philly vs Pittsburgh is the must-watch series, and this will feature a lot of offensive chances, physical play, and bad blood. I'll take Pittsburgh in 6.
Detroit vs. Dallas is the must-not-watch series, given how both Dallas and Detroit can slow down the game to a crawl.
I know I shouldn't keep betting against Dallas, but I'll maintain that it takes a physical team to beat Detroit, and Dallas is more finesse than brutish. Detroit in 5.
Thursday, May 01, 2008
Thursday's Tepid Tantrums
As most people know, the NY Daily News, a tabloid known for misinformation and sensationalism, screwed the pooch reporting Sean Avery as having Cardiac Arrest when he really just had a ruptured spleen.
In the rush to get the 'scoop', the tabloid sensationalized the story, and went with the first bit of 'knowledge' they had, rather than do some further investigating.
What is even funnier than the sloppy cover-up attempts is the fact that the 'reporter', John Dellapina, is fighting back and claiming some mass conspiracy.
So, is there a mass cover-up by the Rangers and other media outlets? Did Avery really have a heart attack, and the team wants us to think otherwise? Not bloody likely.
Dellapina would have us believe that the rest of the media is doing sloppy reporting, and he had the real story, in a lame attempt to cover his ass. Yes, how dare other media outlets try to get the real story, after the NY Daily News made some serious claims about Avery's health.
It won't work, stupid!
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Wayne's World!!
Our Southern Correspondent shares some thoughts.
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Some banter between us FanHouse boys, and the realization that this could be THE END for many NHL legends.
From JP of Japers Rink
Don't know if anyone wants to make mention of it, but tonight could be the last chance fans get to watch the two active all-time points leaders - Sakic and Jagr - play (at least in the NHL).
3228 points, 4 Cups, 5 Ross Trophies, 2 Harts, 22 All-Star games, 2 Olympic Golds, etc., etc.
Throw Forsberg into the mix and the combined stats are even more ridiculous.
Don't forget about Jeremy Roenick and Brendan Shanahan. If this was the end for all of them, we'd be losing the 1st, 2nd, 4th, and 17th active all-time scoring leaders. Catch them while you can.
In the rush to get the 'scoop', the tabloid sensationalized the story, and went with the first bit of 'knowledge' they had, rather than do some further investigating.
What is even funnier than the sloppy cover-up attempts is the fact that the 'reporter', John Dellapina, is fighting back and claiming some mass conspiracy.
Finally, for all those from other media outlets and newspapers who have sarcastically dismissed our initial web story about Sean Avery's hospitalization since the Rangers refuted it Wednesday afternoon, I wonder:
Was your initial reaction that the story couldn't have been correct or did you simply race up to the MSG Training Center to get player reaction? And, did you call the hospital and/or Avery's representatives to get the real story or did your "reporting" simply consist of taking the team's word for what happened?
Fortunately, the intrepid men an women of the press who have exposed baseball's steroid problems didn't similarly regurgitate what they were told by people who understandably want their businesses viewed as beyond reproach.
So, is there a mass cover-up by the Rangers and other media outlets? Did Avery really have a heart attack, and the team wants us to think otherwise? Not bloody likely.
Dellapina would have us believe that the rest of the media is doing sloppy reporting, and he had the real story, in a lame attempt to cover his ass. Yes, how dare other media outlets try to get the real story, after the NY Daily News made some serious claims about Avery's health.
It won't work, stupid!
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Wayne's World!!
Our Southern Correspondent shares some thoughts.
First, I heard the news about Sean Avery about I left this library...It couldn't have happened to a nicer guy; I'd like to see him on a slab on "CSI: New York"...Now on to the other stuff:
Montreal has a player named Francis Bouillon; if he played baseball, his teammates would call him "Soupy"...
What is that song that they play over the PA system in the Walk-over-ya Center whenever the Flyers score a goal? I remember it being played last year at Anaheim as well...Sure beats the hell out of Zombie Nation or Gary Glitter's "Rock and Roll, Part 2" (which should be buried once in for all in the desert outside Las Vegas, never to return)...
Darren Eliot, please STFU: You are the reason I turn down Thrasher telecasts to listen to Jeff Odgers and My Favorite Kamalian on the radio, and now you're boring people to tears on Versus...On the other hand, being boring and charisma-impaired may be a job-requirement at that channel (just look who they have doing the studio show)...
I knew the San Jose-Dallas game was gonna be a low-scoring snoozefest, so I warmed-up for the game by watching the UEFA cup game between Chelsea and Liverpool...was out cold before the end of the first half...
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Some banter between us FanHouse boys, and the realization that this could be THE END for many NHL legends.
From JP of Japers Rink
Don't know if anyone wants to make mention of it, but tonight could be the last chance fans get to watch the two active all-time points leaders - Sakic and Jagr - play (at least in the NHL).
3228 points, 4 Cups, 5 Ross Trophies, 2 Harts, 22 All-Star games, 2 Olympic Golds, etc., etc.
Throw Forsberg into the mix and the combined stats are even more ridiculous.
Don't forget about Jeremy Roenick and Brendan Shanahan. If this was the end for all of them, we'd be losing the 1st, 2nd, 4th, and 17th active all-time scoring leaders. Catch them while you can.
Labels: Hall of Fame, mainstream mediots, playoffs, Sean Avery
Monday, April 28, 2008
Monday Morning Musings
I know I haven't given Dallas any credit this post-season, and they continue to win and win and win against good teams. I never expected their passive-Eurochoke style would work against the physical beasts like San Jose and Anaheim, yet the Stars are just 2 wins away from facing the Red Wings in the Conference final (As if Colorado has a chance)
I always felt Detroit could be exploited by either Anaheim or San Jose, but they might get lucky and not have to face the two teams that would likely give them the most trouble. If that is the case, their Stanley Cup chances look pretty damn good.
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Don't cry for Sean Avery once his Ranger$ get knocked out by the Pens (not that I'd expect you to), because he has a great summer job lined up!
Meet Sean Avery, Fashion Intern.
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Ritch, The American Hockey Fan, has decided to mimic the teams he cheers for, and has become the American Golf Fan. WTF?
I will never understand how anyone can actually enjoy WATCHING Golf on TV. My gramma loves the stuff, and, as much as I've tried, I can't get one iota of joy out of watching a bunch of rich white assholes (and the token black guys Tiger and Vijay) whack a tiny ball into a tiny hole 400 yards away.
(Carlin Mode) No matter which way you slice it, golf is an elitist game that takes up far too much good land for the sole purpose of providing wealthy assholes a forum to discuss business deals that divide up the country between the wealthiest citizens. Bomb the golf courses and turn them into low-cost housing. Oh, and bomb Yaletown, too. And Coal Harbour. What a Yuppie-generic waste of space that place is.
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Photo of the Day: A crafty and witty Flyers fan (as witty as they can get, really) came up with this t-shirt for the Flyers/Caps series. Despite the total mispronunciation of Semin's surname, the shirt still works.
Talking to Earl Sleek (Battle of California fame), he wasn't all that impressed.
I'll never be impressed by player-name-slogans. Not since the 90s, when some anti-Buffalo fan had a sign that said: "HASEK, YOU SMEHLIK LIKE ZHITNIK".
As far as I'm concerned, that's the be-all, end-all to name manipulation.
I always felt Detroit could be exploited by either Anaheim or San Jose, but they might get lucky and not have to face the two teams that would likely give them the most trouble. If that is the case, their Stanley Cup chances look pretty damn good.
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Don't cry for Sean Avery once his Ranger$ get knocked out by the Pens (not that I'd expect you to), because he has a great summer job lined up!
Meet Sean Avery, Fashion Intern.
Just the perfect profession for a self-centered shallow guy like Avery. Ridiculously obsessed with fashion? Apparently, that doesn't count for the unfashionable moronic comments that come out of his mouth.
Avery, who makes $2 million a year with the Rangers and has cavorted with starlets since his days with the Los Angeles Kings, initiated the contact with Vogue editor Anna Wintour. "He is ridiculously obsessed with fashion," Avery's publicist Nicole Chabot told ABCNews.com. "He loves it more than anything in the world. It's something he has always wanted to do."
Chabot admits Avery is an agitator in the "old-style" of hockey and a "blabber mouth," but off ice the player is "surprisingly articulate, creative and savvy," she said. He's also charming, she noted. "There is not a woman that doesn't fall in love with him in five minutes."
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Ritch, The American Hockey Fan, has decided to mimic the teams he cheers for, and has become the American Golf Fan. WTF?
So, after some soul searching (and some head-scratching) we've decided to unveil the exciting new format you see in the header above. So keep us bookmarked, America - don't forget to check in for our thoughts on the Players Championship, the U.S. Open, and the John Deere Classic, as well as Ritch's special series on whether this Tiger Woods kid is the real deal.How about discussion on whether Payne Stewart-type high socks will be the new IN trend this summer?
That's right, it's American Golf Fan all summer long...or at least until we break down and tune back in to the playoffs. Or, failing that, September, when we start our annual complaining about whether or not pre-season hockey is worth watching.
I will never understand how anyone can actually enjoy WATCHING Golf on TV. My gramma loves the stuff, and, as much as I've tried, I can't get one iota of joy out of watching a bunch of rich white assholes (and the token black guys Tiger and Vijay) whack a tiny ball into a tiny hole 400 yards away.
(Carlin Mode) No matter which way you slice it, golf is an elitist game that takes up far too much good land for the sole purpose of providing wealthy assholes a forum to discuss business deals that divide up the country between the wealthiest citizens. Bomb the golf courses and turn them into low-cost housing. Oh, and bomb Yaletown, too. And Coal Harbour. What a Yuppie-generic waste of space that place is.
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Photo of the Day: A crafty and witty Flyers fan (as witty as they can get, really) came up with this t-shirt for the Flyers/Caps series. Despite the total mispronunciation of Semin's surname, the shirt still works.
Talking to Earl Sleek (Battle of California fame), he wasn't all that impressed.
I'll never be impressed by player-name-slogans. Not since the 90s, when some anti-Buffalo fan had a sign that said: "HASEK, YOU SMEHLIK LIKE ZHITNIK".
As far as I'm concerned, that's the be-all, end-all to name manipulation.
Labels: dallas stars, Golf sucks, musings, playoffs
Thursday, April 24, 2008
Foolish Second Round Predictions
So, I went 4-for-8 in my first-round predictions. Nothing to brag about, but still .500, which is just a passing grade in most North American schools.
Apparently, my Jedi powers are out of practice. It doesn't help that we haven't had a terrible new Star Wars movie in a few years.
Montreal over Boston - Boston, as they'd done all year, played a lot better than most anyone expected. Milan Lucic is simply a monster (He'd kick Godzilla's ass), and the Bruins earned full marks for taking this series the distance.
Pittsburgh over Ottawa - I predicted 7 games, and gave the Sens way too much credit. That team was broken, and was never really in it.
Philly over Washington - Who knew Daniel Briere and Vaclav Prospal would be such forces of nature? Who knew the refs would put the whistles away (except when they caught Tom Poti) and ignore the cheap crap the Flyers were getting away with? A great series, but with the wrong victor.
NY Rangers over New Jersey - As I mentioned before, I gave the Rangers far too little credit for their choking style of play, and Sean Avery was a b!tch for the Devils to deal with.
Detroit over Nashville - Hey, give Nashville props for winning 2 games. I didn't think they would, and they showed Detroit's weaknesses for all to see.
San Jose over Calgary - One more game than expected, but Calgary is one of the few teams that can match up to San Jose's physical play. Kiprusoff is not a money goalie, but Iginla is definitely a money player.
Colorado over Minnesota - I went with my heart, and got burnt (again, as usual). Colorado has found the fountain of youth, and it's scary.
Dallas over Anaheim - I guess Anaheim never was truly able to get it all together, and Dallas just choked them to death. Quite the shocker ... even moreso than the Rangers over the Devils.
SECOND ROUND
Let's keep this short and sweet.
Philly over Montreal in 7
The fact that Montreal had such trouble with Boston doesn't bode well for them against the even-more-physical Flyers. Montreal is very much a finesse team, and their defence is also quite small.
Now, if the refs were doing their job, I'd expect the Flyers to take oodles of penalties, and the powerful Montreal Power Play to rip Martin Biron a new asshole. Unfortunately, we're back to the old style of officiating, and that is why I'm picking the Flyers.
Penguins over NY Rangers in 6
Malkin and Crosby are both emotional players, so I worry about them being able to ignore Sean Avery's antics. They've done OK before, but the playoffs bring about a lot of tension.
That said, the Pens seriously outclass the Rangers offensively and I think the Rangers lack of depth will be apparent in this series. As long as the Pens goaltending doesn't suck, they should have this series.
Detroit over Colorado in 6
It is scary that the Avs have found the Fountain of Youth. Peter Forsberg, Joe Sakic, Adam Foote, and Jose Theodore are all playing a lot better than we'd expect.
That said, I don't think the Avs have quite the physical aspect to their game that is needed to pound the Wings into submission. The Ducks and Sharks and Flames match up well to Detroit. The Avs? They are outskilled in every department but goaltending.
Sharks over Dallas in 6
This will not be a fun series to watch. Lots of checking, and little scoring. I'm still not big on Dallas, despite beating the Ducks, and I think the Sharks, while maybe a bit tired, are going all the way.
Apparently, my Jedi powers are out of practice. It doesn't help that we haven't had a terrible new Star Wars movie in a few years.
Montreal over Boston - Boston, as they'd done all year, played a lot better than most anyone expected. Milan Lucic is simply a monster (He'd kick Godzilla's ass), and the Bruins earned full marks for taking this series the distance.
Pittsburgh over Ottawa - I predicted 7 games, and gave the Sens way too much credit. That team was broken, and was never really in it.
Philly over Washington - Who knew Daniel Briere and Vaclav Prospal would be such forces of nature? Who knew the refs would put the whistles away (except when they caught Tom Poti) and ignore the cheap crap the Flyers were getting away with? A great series, but with the wrong victor.
NY Rangers over New Jersey - As I mentioned before, I gave the Rangers far too little credit for their choking style of play, and Sean Avery was a b!tch for the Devils to deal with.
Detroit over Nashville - Hey, give Nashville props for winning 2 games. I didn't think they would, and they showed Detroit's weaknesses for all to see.
San Jose over Calgary - One more game than expected, but Calgary is one of the few teams that can match up to San Jose's physical play. Kiprusoff is not a money goalie, but Iginla is definitely a money player.
Colorado over Minnesota - I went with my heart, and got burnt (again, as usual). Colorado has found the fountain of youth, and it's scary.
Dallas over Anaheim - I guess Anaheim never was truly able to get it all together, and Dallas just choked them to death. Quite the shocker ... even moreso than the Rangers over the Devils.
SECOND ROUND
Let's keep this short and sweet.
Philly over Montreal in 7
The fact that Montreal had such trouble with Boston doesn't bode well for them against the even-more-physical Flyers. Montreal is very much a finesse team, and their defence is also quite small.
Now, if the refs were doing their job, I'd expect the Flyers to take oodles of penalties, and the powerful Montreal Power Play to rip Martin Biron a new asshole. Unfortunately, we're back to the old style of officiating, and that is why I'm picking the Flyers.
Penguins over NY Rangers in 6
Malkin and Crosby are both emotional players, so I worry about them being able to ignore Sean Avery's antics. They've done OK before, but the playoffs bring about a lot of tension.
That said, the Pens seriously outclass the Rangers offensively and I think the Rangers lack of depth will be apparent in this series. As long as the Pens goaltending doesn't suck, they should have this series.
Detroit over Colorado in 6
It is scary that the Avs have found the Fountain of Youth. Peter Forsberg, Joe Sakic, Adam Foote, and Jose Theodore are all playing a lot better than we'd expect.
That said, I don't think the Avs have quite the physical aspect to their game that is needed to pound the Wings into submission. The Ducks and Sharks and Flames match up well to Detroit. The Avs? They are outskilled in every department but goaltending.
Sharks over Dallas in 6
This will not be a fun series to watch. Lots of checking, and little scoring. I'm still not big on Dallas, despite beating the Ducks, and I think the Sharks, while maybe a bit tired, are going all the way.
Labels: ill-advised predictions, playoffs, second round
Thursday, April 17, 2008
Rangers Aren't Be-Deviled
by Jes
In my First Round predictions, I gave the New York Rangers little chance and little credit in their ability to beat the New Jersey Devils.
With the Devils on the brink, I obviously have quite a lot of egg on my face.
Admittedly, I don't follow the Devils or Rangers all that closely, since they are far in the East and both not very interesting to watch. Thus, perhaps I should have given more credit to Tom Renney for turning his club into a defensive juggernaught, and getting guys like Chris Drury, Scott Gomez, and Jaromir Jagr to buy into his choking system.
In his preview for FanHouse, Greg Wyshynski, a noted Devils fan, wasn't too upbeat about his team's chance at getting past the first round. Despite some decent names on the Devils roster, Greg thought the Devils lack of offence would come back to bite them.
Certainly, 9 goals in 4 games isn't going to do the trick offensively, but the Devils are a collective -31 in these 4 games, something unheard of in New Jersey Devils hockey since the Mickey Mouse days.
Tongue-in-cheek, Southern Correspondent Wayne asks "The team that has few fans is now down 3-1...Will Lou Lamoriello axe Brent Sutter before game 5 to fire up his team?"
Somehow, I wouldn't be shocked :/
I suppose the Rangers goal scoring woes this season blinded me to the fact that they do, in fact, have a lot more talent up front than the Devils. Shanahan, Jagr, Gomez, Drury, Straka vs. Elias, Madden, Parise, and Langenbrunner...it's no contest.
I suppose, from an outsider's perspective, I can blame the Devils woes on goaltending. It's simplistic, but look at the other stats.
Power Plays - Both teams are at 20%
Penalty Killing - Both teams are at 80%, with the Rangers even shorthanded 5 more times than the Devils
Shots on goal - 124 to 117
Faceoffs - Both teams are near 50%
So, we go to goaltending... Martin Brodeur? A 90.4SV% is well below average, and not the type of golden goaltending we're used to seeing from the man with the golden horseshoe up his ass. Lundqvist? He's at 92.4% after struggling for much of the regular season.
Whatever the case may be, the Rangers are one win away from sweeping aside the Devils, and booting me in the groin for not giving them enough credit.
In my First Round predictions, I gave the New York Rangers little chance and little credit in their ability to beat the New Jersey Devils.
With the Devils on the brink, I obviously have quite a lot of egg on my face.
Admittedly, I don't follow the Devils or Rangers all that closely, since they are far in the East and both not very interesting to watch. Thus, perhaps I should have given more credit to Tom Renney for turning his club into a defensive juggernaught, and getting guys like Chris Drury, Scott Gomez, and Jaromir Jagr to buy into his choking system.
In his preview for FanHouse, Greg Wyshynski, a noted Devils fan, wasn't too upbeat about his team's chance at getting past the first round. Despite some decent names on the Devils roster, Greg thought the Devils lack of offence would come back to bite them.
Certainly, 9 goals in 4 games isn't going to do the trick offensively, but the Devils are a collective -31 in these 4 games, something unheard of in New Jersey Devils hockey since the Mickey Mouse days.
Tongue-in-cheek, Southern Correspondent Wayne asks "The team that has few fans is now down 3-1...Will Lou Lamoriello axe Brent Sutter before game 5 to fire up his team?"
Somehow, I wouldn't be shocked :/
I suppose the Rangers goal scoring woes this season blinded me to the fact that they do, in fact, have a lot more talent up front than the Devils. Shanahan, Jagr, Gomez, Drury, Straka vs. Elias, Madden, Parise, and Langenbrunner...it's no contest.
I suppose, from an outsider's perspective, I can blame the Devils woes on goaltending. It's simplistic, but look at the other stats.
Power Plays - Both teams are at 20%
Penalty Killing - Both teams are at 80%, with the Rangers even shorthanded 5 more times than the Devils
Shots on goal - 124 to 117
Faceoffs - Both teams are near 50%
So, we go to goaltending... Martin Brodeur? A 90.4SV% is well below average, and not the type of golden goaltending we're used to seeing from the man with the golden horseshoe up his ass. Lundqvist? He's at 92.4% after struggling for much of the regular season.
Whatever the case may be, the Rangers are one win away from sweeping aside the Devils, and booting me in the groin for not giving them enough credit.
Labels: Devils, playoffs, Rangers
Wednesday, April 09, 2008
Practical Playoff Predictions
by Jes
With all of my heavy workload at work and school, and with the Canucks practicing their chip shots, I'm finding it hard to really get into the playoffs like I normally do.
That sucks, I know ... the best time of the year for hockey, and I'd need the hockey equivalent of Cialis to get me in the mood to watch the action on the ice.
Wayne, our Southern Correspondent, feels much the same way.
Well, that's rather harsh. Why aren't the NHL's first round match-ups entertaining? Hell, I can think of quite a few series that you ought to be watching.
Anyway, I might as well make some predictions and use my Jedi powers for something other than stealing Yu-Gi-Oh cards from schoolchildren.
EASTERN CONFERENCE
Montreal (1) over Boston (8) in 5 games.
The Habs are a finely tuned machine, and the sum is greater than the yada yada yada. The Bruins are a surprise entrant into the playoffs, and will certainly be destroyed by Tomas Plekanec and the Montreal Power Play.
Pittsburgh (2) over Ottawa (7) in 7 games.
This should be a fun series to watch if you love goal scoring. Both the Sens and Pens have some of the most talented offenses in the NHL, and both teams have major question marks in goal.
Still, I'd go with the hot hand, and Crosby/Malkin is greater than Spezza/Heatley. The Sens are struggling, and are obviously mentally beat up.
Washington (3) over Philadelphia (6) in 6 games.
I don't think Philly is going to get away with murder as much as they want, and the Caps are just on frickin fire. With the addition of Huet and Fedorov, and Ovechkin on performance enhancers, the Flyers won't be able to keep up with the speedy Caps.
Good. Nobody wants Philly in there, anyway
New Jersey (4) over NY Rangers (5) in 7 games.
ZZZZ... the must-not-watch series of the first round pits two of the most defensive-minded teams in the league against each other. Thankfully, nobody outside of the New York area will be subjected to this dreck.
Martin Brodeur...never bet against him, especially when the Rangers' Henrik Lundqvist struggled most of the season.
WESTERN CONFERENCE
Detroit (1) over Nashville (8) in 4 games.
I am not as high on Detroit as many others, but Nashville is not going to be the team to derail them. The Wings have a serious hole in goal, but should have no problem tearing the Preds a new one.
San Jose (2) over Calgary (7) in 6 games.
I did a preview of this series over at FanHouse. Suffice it to say, only fans of grinding, "Blue Collar" hockey will enjoy this series. Not fun to watch.
Minnesota (3) over Colorado (6) in 6 games.
As if I'd go against Demitra and Mr. Potatohead!
The Avs have a scary offence, but questionable goaltending. Minnesota, despite some hiccups, is still a far superior systematic team to the loosey-goosey Avalanche.
Ducks (4) over Dallas (5) in 5 games.
The Stars suck, and will choke in the playoffs once again. Turco is not that great of a goalie, and Mike Ribeiro is living off of an unusually high shot percentage. His scoring won't last ...
Ever since Scott Niedermayer and Teemu Selanne returned, the Ducks we know and hate are back to their old "beat em on the ice, beat em in the alley" ways that won them a cup last year.
So, not one upset pick in the bunch. Not that I don't think the Avs could beat the Wild, but I just don't see much upset potential in the first round.
With all of my heavy workload at work and school, and with the Canucks practicing their chip shots, I'm finding it hard to really get into the playoffs like I normally do.
That sucks, I know ... the best time of the year for hockey, and I'd need the hockey equivalent of Cialis to get me in the mood to watch the action on the ice.
Wayne, our Southern Correspondent, feels much the same way.
Maybe it's just me, but I'm just not feeling a buzz for this year's playoffs...I guess the only place in the U.S. where there would be palpable excitement would be Washington...
It used to be that the early rounds of the Cup playoffs were far more entertaining than the NBA's; but after the lockout, everything's now in the NBA's favor. Maybe it's Versus, I don't know...
If the NHL were a fast food, it would be Burger King french fries...
If the NHL were a TV sitcom, it would be "According to Jim"...
If the NHL were any other sport, it would be the PGA Tour MINUS Tiger Woods and Phil Mickelson.
Well, that's rather harsh. Why aren't the NHL's first round match-ups entertaining? Hell, I can think of quite a few series that you ought to be watching.
Anyway, I might as well make some predictions and use my Jedi powers for something other than stealing Yu-Gi-Oh cards from schoolchildren.
EASTERN CONFERENCE
Montreal (1) over Boston (8) in 5 games.
The Habs are a finely tuned machine, and the sum is greater than the yada yada yada. The Bruins are a surprise entrant into the playoffs, and will certainly be destroyed by Tomas Plekanec and the Montreal Power Play.
Pittsburgh (2) over Ottawa (7) in 7 games.
This should be a fun series to watch if you love goal scoring. Both the Sens and Pens have some of the most talented offenses in the NHL, and both teams have major question marks in goal.
Still, I'd go with the hot hand, and Crosby/Malkin is greater than Spezza/Heatley. The Sens are struggling, and are obviously mentally beat up.
Washington (3) over Philadelphia (6) in 6 games.
I don't think Philly is going to get away with murder as much as they want, and the Caps are just on frickin fire. With the addition of Huet and Fedorov, and Ovechkin on performance enhancers, the Flyers won't be able to keep up with the speedy Caps.
Good. Nobody wants Philly in there, anyway
New Jersey (4) over NY Rangers (5) in 7 games.
ZZZZ... the must-not-watch series of the first round pits two of the most defensive-minded teams in the league against each other. Thankfully, nobody outside of the New York area will be subjected to this dreck.
Martin Brodeur...never bet against him, especially when the Rangers' Henrik Lundqvist struggled most of the season.
WESTERN CONFERENCE
Detroit (1) over Nashville (8) in 4 games.
I am not as high on Detroit as many others, but Nashville is not going to be the team to derail them. The Wings have a serious hole in goal, but should have no problem tearing the Preds a new one.
San Jose (2) over Calgary (7) in 6 games.
I did a preview of this series over at FanHouse. Suffice it to say, only fans of grinding, "Blue Collar" hockey will enjoy this series. Not fun to watch.
Minnesota (3) over Colorado (6) in 6 games.
As if I'd go against Demitra and Mr. Potatohead!
The Avs have a scary offence, but questionable goaltending. Minnesota, despite some hiccups, is still a far superior systematic team to the loosey-goosey Avalanche.
Ducks (4) over Dallas (5) in 5 games.
The Stars suck, and will choke in the playoffs once again. Turco is not that great of a goalie, and Mike Ribeiro is living off of an unusually high shot percentage. His scoring won't last ...
Ever since Scott Niedermayer and Teemu Selanne returned, the Ducks we know and hate are back to their old "beat em on the ice, beat em in the alley" ways that won them a cup last year.
So, not one upset pick in the bunch. Not that I don't think the Avs could beat the Wild, but I just don't see much upset potential in the first round.
Labels: ill-advised predictions, playoffs
Sunday, March 30, 2008
Why Can't I Get Excited About the Canucks?
by Jes
So, we've got a few games left in the season and the Canucks are in a race for the Western Conference's last playoff spot that is tighter than Hillary Clinton's ice-cold nether regions.
Despite this, I can't seem to get excited about it at all.
Have I just given up on the Canucks, much like the Canucks seem to have given up on the season?
While the Edmonton Oilers' are playing their asses off, the Canucks are almost content to get a head start on golfing.
Are the Canucks expecting a first round defeat? Why, then, is there a complete lack of caring and emotion out of most of the team?
I know, I know, it's not as if the Canucks can simply score at will. Still, watch the Canucks on any night and the effort just isn't there. Too many players just dont' truly seem to care.
Maybe that is why I am so apathetic about the team right now. If you are an Oilers fan, you can at least take heart in knowing that the team never gave up (assuming they miss the playoffs, which I bet they will).
The Hawks and Coyotes? They made real strides?
The Canucks? They turned into the Florida Panthers ... a great goalie and a mediocre team that won't go anywhere.
Makes you wonder if Luongo won't get GTFO out of here once his contract expires.
I hope GM Dave "No Action" Nonis is canned this off-season, and ownership doesn't simply let the injury excuse be used. I'm sorry, but the Canucks needed offensive help, and didn't get any.
*sigh*
I feel like I should just jump on a bandwagon this year and not invest too much emotion into the playoffs.
Montreal? They have Tomas Plekanec, but Quebecers hate me ;)
Boston? They have Milan Lucic, but they don't have a shot.
San Jose? zzzzz
Anaheim? Bunch of thugs!
Oh, I almost forgot that I did create the Sidney Crosby blog.
Time to jump onto my other bandwagon. w00t!!!
No, I don't have shame in doing so. Until the Canucks earn my respect and devotion again, I'll take my business elsewhere.
So, we've got a few games left in the season and the Canucks are in a race for the Western Conference's last playoff spot that is tighter than Hillary Clinton's ice-cold nether regions.
Despite this, I can't seem to get excited about it at all.
Have I just given up on the Canucks, much like the Canucks seem to have given up on the season?
Rank GP W L OT Pts GF GA Home Away L10
1 Detroit Red Wings* 79 52 20 7 111 248 175 27-9-3 25-11-4 7-2-1
2 San Jose Sharks* 78 47 21 10 104 210 182 20-13-6 27-8-4 8-0-2
3 Minnesota Wild* 79 42 28 9 93 214 211 23-11-5 19-17-4 5-2-3
4 Anaheim Ducks 79 44 27 8 96 195 184 26-9-4 18-18-4 6-3-1
5 Dallas Stars 78 43 29 6 92 230 196 22-15-2 21-14-4 2-7-1
6 Calgary Flames 78 40 28 10 90 216 215 21-11-9 19-17-1 5-5-0
7 Colorado Avalanche 79 42 31 6 90 221 211 26-12-2 16-19-4 5-5-0
8 Nashville Predators 79 39 31 9 87 222 221 22-14-4 17-17-5 4-5-1
9 Vancouver Canucks 78 38 30 10 86 203 200 20-12-5 18-18-5 4-6-0
10 Edmonton Oilers 80 40 34 6 86 231 247 23-16-1 17-18-5 6-3-1
While the Edmonton Oilers' are playing their asses off, the Canucks are almost content to get a head start on golfing.
Are the Canucks expecting a first round defeat? Why, then, is there a complete lack of caring and emotion out of most of the team?
I know, I know, it's not as if the Canucks can simply score at will. Still, watch the Canucks on any night and the effort just isn't there. Too many players just dont' truly seem to care.
Maybe that is why I am so apathetic about the team right now. If you are an Oilers fan, you can at least take heart in knowing that the team never gave up (assuming they miss the playoffs, which I bet they will).
The Hawks and Coyotes? They made real strides?
The Canucks? They turned into the Florida Panthers ... a great goalie and a mediocre team that won't go anywhere.
Makes you wonder if Luongo won't get GTFO out of here once his contract expires.
I hope GM Dave "No Action" Nonis is canned this off-season, and ownership doesn't simply let the injury excuse be used. I'm sorry, but the Canucks needed offensive help, and didn't get any.
*sigh*
I feel like I should just jump on a bandwagon this year and not invest too much emotion into the playoffs.
Montreal? They have Tomas Plekanec, but Quebecers hate me ;)
Boston? They have Milan Lucic, but they don't have a shot.
San Jose? zzzzz
Anaheim? Bunch of thugs!
Oh, I almost forgot that I did create the Sidney Crosby blog.
Time to jump onto my other bandwagon. w00t!!!
No, I don't have shame in doing so. Until the Canucks earn my respect and devotion again, I'll take my business elsewhere.
Friday, March 14, 2008
Friday's Frank Frothings
by Jes
Oh, I know I'm a negative Canucks fan, but this season is now officially over.
Sure, the Canucks might make the playoffs, but they certainly won't do anything substantial. I don't even expect an upset, unless the Canucks play Dallas (unlikely). Basically, a season of almost nothing.
Now, Mattias Ohlund couldn't bear the pain any longer and decided to have a season-ending operation. Canucks fans appreciate the effort he put in, and we know that he really didn't want to have to make that decision.
Krajicek, Miller, Ohlund are gone ... Salo is hurt, Bieksa is still not 100%, and the Canucks can't score. Basically, the Canucks are first round fodder.
Last night's 2-0 loss to the Coyotes was a perfect example of how our team doesn't seem to care enough. Not to discount the Coyotes, but most of the Canucks were clearly sleepwalking though last night's game. Apart from Burrows/Kesler and Luongo, who else seemed to want to win the game?
I wonder if it would be better for the Canucks to miss the playoffs. Then, GM Dave "No Action" Nonis might realize how weak his team really is, and do something of SUBSTANCE. None of this Brad Isbister/Marc Chouinard bullshit. Get us some real players! Don't waste Luongo's talent playing behind a bunch of flotsam. Really, is Luongo going to want to re-sign here when his contract expires? Doubtful.
For now, I am completely writing off the Canucks, and anything other than a first round exit will be a bonus. Set expectations low, and your heart won't get hurt.
---
When I look at other Western Conference second-tier teams, I see potential.
Colorado has Sakic (always $$$$$), Forsberg, and Adam Foote back in the fold. This team can explode in your face.
Minnesota is Minnesota ... well-coached, and always dangerous come playoff time. Sure, they struggle to score on a regular basis, but we know this team will quietly sneak up on your and steal your lollipop. They have good special teams, which always make a difference during the playoffs.
Phoenix? If they happen to make it, they'll have the 'nothing to lose' energy that is always so dangerous versus uptight teams with high expectations. Oh, and don't forget Ilya Bryzgalov and his Vezina-like play.
Hell, even Calgary has Miikka Kiprusoff discovering his old form, a great defence, and enough offence to make them a viable choice. Remember, this is a team that many expect to do better than they have, so we know they have the talent to do good things.
The Canucks? They have Roberto Luongo, and nothing else. That is why I have written them off.
---
When is the last time you heard the term "Jimmy Hat" in casual conversation?
---
More on Peter Stastny and his crusade.
I got an email from another friend of mine from Slovakia, and he added his thoughts on the situation. Keep in mind that my pal is also very anti-communist (as are most people who lived through the Soviets occupations), and is no fan of Siroky and his cronies.
---
The decision of Peter to open this cause was very stupid. I cannot understand why he sent a copy to Bettman and Hay, who have nothing to do with Slovak hockey hall of fame. A lot of people (in Slovakia) support him but most ones are very disappointed to combine political policy with their most favorite sport.
Peter Stastny was a very respected athlete and personality by all Slovaks. But his first conflict (two years ago) with hockey officials confused a lot of his fans. I can understand that he has a conflict with Siroky, but nobody can explain me why he pulls in other officials and players to his personal conflict.
In my opinion, Siroky is and especially was a real asshole who collaborated with former regime and worked for secret police. However, his present work for Slovak hockey is accepted by most people.
I must remind you to one fact ... that Stastny worked as GM of national team in period 2003-06. Do you know who was a president of Slovak hockey federation? Of course Siroky.
Why Stastny collaborated with such person when he has known him pretty well? Why he accepted good salary from federation when he knew its boss? This conflict started two years ago when the federation has not extended the contract with Stastny.
BTW, Peter knew only players on NHL and had no idea about Europe-skating players. To be ironic he has confused first names of several young NHL-ers e.g. Jurcina and Meszaros.
---
My friend makes an excellent point. Stastny surely know the kind of man Siroky was during his days with the hockey federation. Why, then, is it only now that Peter comes out with such allegations? Why didn't he turn down the job if he has such a high moral standard?
Oh, I know I'm a negative Canucks fan, but this season is now officially over.
Sure, the Canucks might make the playoffs, but they certainly won't do anything substantial. I don't even expect an upset, unless the Canucks play Dallas (unlikely). Basically, a season of almost nothing.
Now, Mattias Ohlund couldn't bear the pain any longer and decided to have a season-ending operation. Canucks fans appreciate the effort he put in, and we know that he really didn't want to have to make that decision.
Krajicek, Miller, Ohlund are gone ... Salo is hurt, Bieksa is still not 100%, and the Canucks can't score. Basically, the Canucks are first round fodder.
Last night's 2-0 loss to the Coyotes was a perfect example of how our team doesn't seem to care enough. Not to discount the Coyotes, but most of the Canucks were clearly sleepwalking though last night's game. Apart from Burrows/Kesler and Luongo, who else seemed to want to win the game?
I wonder if it would be better for the Canucks to miss the playoffs. Then, GM Dave "No Action" Nonis might realize how weak his team really is, and do something of SUBSTANCE. None of this Brad Isbister/Marc Chouinard bullshit. Get us some real players! Don't waste Luongo's talent playing behind a bunch of flotsam. Really, is Luongo going to want to re-sign here when his contract expires? Doubtful.
For now, I am completely writing off the Canucks, and anything other than a first round exit will be a bonus. Set expectations low, and your heart won't get hurt.
---
When I look at other Western Conference second-tier teams, I see potential.
Colorado has Sakic (always $$$$$), Forsberg, and Adam Foote back in the fold. This team can explode in your face.
Minnesota is Minnesota ... well-coached, and always dangerous come playoff time. Sure, they struggle to score on a regular basis, but we know this team will quietly sneak up on your and steal your lollipop. They have good special teams, which always make a difference during the playoffs.
Phoenix? If they happen to make it, they'll have the 'nothing to lose' energy that is always so dangerous versus uptight teams with high expectations. Oh, and don't forget Ilya Bryzgalov and his Vezina-like play.
Hell, even Calgary has Miikka Kiprusoff discovering his old form, a great defence, and enough offence to make them a viable choice. Remember, this is a team that many expect to do better than they have, so we know they have the talent to do good things.
The Canucks? They have Roberto Luongo, and nothing else. That is why I have written them off.
---
When is the last time you heard the term "Jimmy Hat" in casual conversation?
---
More on Peter Stastny and his crusade.
I got an email from another friend of mine from Slovakia, and he added his thoughts on the situation. Keep in mind that my pal is also very anti-communist (as are most people who lived through the Soviets occupations), and is no fan of Siroky and his cronies.
---
The decision of Peter to open this cause was very stupid. I cannot understand why he sent a copy to Bettman and Hay, who have nothing to do with Slovak hockey hall of fame. A lot of people (in Slovakia) support him but most ones are very disappointed to combine political policy with their most favorite sport.
Peter Stastny was a very respected athlete and personality by all Slovaks. But his first conflict (two years ago) with hockey officials confused a lot of his fans. I can understand that he has a conflict with Siroky, but nobody can explain me why he pulls in other officials and players to his personal conflict.
In my opinion, Siroky is and especially was a real asshole who collaborated with former regime and worked for secret police. However, his present work for Slovak hockey is accepted by most people.
I must remind you to one fact ... that Stastny worked as GM of national team in period 2003-06. Do you know who was a president of Slovak hockey federation? Of course Siroky.
Why Stastny collaborated with such person when he has known him pretty well? Why he accepted good salary from federation when he knew its boss? This conflict started two years ago when the federation has not extended the contract with Stastny.
BTW, Peter knew only players on NHL and had no idea about Europe-skating players. To be ironic he has confused first names of several young NHL-ers e.g. Jurcina and Meszaros.
---
My friend makes an excellent point. Stastny surely know the kind of man Siroky was during his days with the hockey federation. Why, then, is it only now that Peter comes out with such allegations? Why didn't he turn down the job if he has such a high moral standard?
Labels: Canucks, Juraj Siroky, Mattias Ohlund, Peter Stastny, playoffs, Slovak hockey
Monday, March 03, 2008
Vancouver Canucks: Stuck in the Middle
by Jes
It hasn't easy being a fan of the Vancouver Canucks, a team that has been close to the Stanley Cup twice, but has never actually won it. All the while, we've seen newer teams like the Ducks and Lightning win it all ...
It certainly hasn't been easy being a fan of this season's version of the Vancouver Canucks, a team truly stuck in the middle.
Fans of teams like the Sens/Ducks/Sharks/Stars/Wings/Devils can be confident that their team has a legitimate shot at the Stanley Cup.
Fans of lesser teams like the Blackhawks/Jackets/Oilers can at least have hope in their young prospects and the fact that they can look forward to high draft picks. At least there is some bright light at the end of the tunnel.
The Canucks? They have neither.
Let's face it, the addition of Brad Richards or Marian Hossa would not have turned this edition of the Canucks into legit contenders. The Canucks have quite a few holes to fix, and few assets to work with. Thus, I am quite happy to see Dave "No Action" Nonis not get reamed for a rental.
I am, however, frustrated that all we get is Matt Cooke for Matt Pettingzoo ... crap for crap. This kind of mean-nothing move is what we've come to expect from the current Canucks administration, and it doesn't actually get the team anywhere.
Can the Canucks be considered a true contender? Hardly. Luongo can steal a playoff series ... maybe two ... but the Canucks lack of fire, depth, and offence will kill them.
Can the Canucks look forward towards the future? Hardly. Sure, Mason Raymond has some uber skills, and the Canucks have SOME decent young talent, but the farm system is hardly stocked with bright jewels. Again, no big stars to build around like a Patrick Kane, Sam Gagner, or Erik Johnson. The Canucks don't even have great draft picks to look forward to.
Last night's 4-1 loss to the Hawks pretty much sums up the current Canucks, who had just 10 shots on goal the whole game. 10!!! How can any team make the Blackhawks look like the New Jersey Devils-on-steroids? Somehow, the Canucks managed to blow a game against a crappy team missing about seven players. Sheesh.
Unlike last year's squad, which seemed to outwork the opposition most nights, this year's club seems to get very lazy against 'weak' teams and only draw up some fire against stronger clubs. The Canucks can't be considered a blue collar team with their constant game-to-game inconsistencies.
Yet, the Canucks will probably pull an amazing win out of their ass in the next week. Bad game, good game, mini bad streak, mini hot streak...
In the end, it'll likely end up in a .500ish record and a playoff spot. The
Canucks will go out in the first or second round, and that will be that.
Given how Dave Nonis has done such a poor job with the club (One amazing trade, notwithstanding), Canucks fans can't really look forward to next season.
Do you really think Nonis will have a great off-season and add a bunch of talent to go with the Sedins and Luongo? Bah! We'll get more Brad Isbisters. The talent level will continue to be mediocre, overall, and the Canucks will fail to get any big names to sign with the Canucks.
So, how much should I invest myself into this team? Should I be elated if the Canucks pull off a playoff series win? Should I really be that upset if they do manage to miss the playoffs?
It hasn't easy being a fan of the Vancouver Canucks, a team that has been close to the Stanley Cup twice, but has never actually won it. All the while, we've seen newer teams like the Ducks and Lightning win it all ...
It certainly hasn't been easy being a fan of this season's version of the Vancouver Canucks, a team truly stuck in the middle.
Fans of teams like the Sens/Ducks/Sharks/Stars/Wings/Devils can be confident that their team has a legitimate shot at the Stanley Cup.
Fans of lesser teams like the Blackhawks/Jackets/Oilers can at least have hope in their young prospects and the fact that they can look forward to high draft picks. At least there is some bright light at the end of the tunnel.
The Canucks? They have neither.
Let's face it, the addition of Brad Richards or Marian Hossa would not have turned this edition of the Canucks into legit contenders. The Canucks have quite a few holes to fix, and few assets to work with. Thus, I am quite happy to see Dave "No Action" Nonis not get reamed for a rental.
I am, however, frustrated that all we get is Matt Cooke for Matt Pettingzoo ... crap for crap. This kind of mean-nothing move is what we've come to expect from the current Canucks administration, and it doesn't actually get the team anywhere.
Can the Canucks be considered a true contender? Hardly. Luongo can steal a playoff series ... maybe two ... but the Canucks lack of fire, depth, and offence will kill them.
Can the Canucks look forward towards the future? Hardly. Sure, Mason Raymond has some uber skills, and the Canucks have SOME decent young talent, but the farm system is hardly stocked with bright jewels. Again, no big stars to build around like a Patrick Kane, Sam Gagner, or Erik Johnson. The Canucks don't even have great draft picks to look forward to.
Last night's 4-1 loss to the Hawks pretty much sums up the current Canucks, who had just 10 shots on goal the whole game. 10!!! How can any team make the Blackhawks look like the New Jersey Devils-on-steroids? Somehow, the Canucks managed to blow a game against a crappy team missing about seven players. Sheesh.
Unlike last year's squad, which seemed to outwork the opposition most nights, this year's club seems to get very lazy against 'weak' teams and only draw up some fire against stronger clubs. The Canucks can't be considered a blue collar team with their constant game-to-game inconsistencies.
Yet, the Canucks will probably pull an amazing win out of their ass in the next week. Bad game, good game, mini bad streak, mini hot streak...
In the end, it'll likely end up in a .500ish record and a playoff spot. The
Canucks will go out in the first or second round, and that will be that.
Given how Dave Nonis has done such a poor job with the club (One amazing trade, notwithstanding), Canucks fans can't really look forward to next season.
Do you really think Nonis will have a great off-season and add a bunch of talent to go with the Sedins and Luongo? Bah! We'll get more Brad Isbisters. The talent level will continue to be mediocre, overall, and the Canucks will fail to get any big names to sign with the Canucks.
So, how much should I invest myself into this team? Should I be elated if the Canucks pull off a playoff series win? Should I really be that upset if they do manage to miss the playoffs?
Labels: Canucks, Dave Nonis, playoffs
Wednesday, May 23, 2007
More Playoff Ramblings
by Jes
So, the Stanley Cup Finals are set, and we'll have another Canadian team (Ottawa) face off against a non-traditional market (Anaheim) in another year where the Canucks and Leafs win squat.
Our favourite blogger from Alabama, Wayne, emailed me some of his playoff musings, to which I'll respond ...
Daniel Alfredsson has clearly gone from the Muppet to the clear-cut look, and it's working for him. He's all business, and his play speaks volumes about his commitment. Playoff facial hair is definitely more of a North American trend, methinks.
The handshake is a tradition, and nothing more. There is no rule that says you need to shake hands at all, and a team could easily just walk back to the locker room to cry their heads off without acknowledging the other team. Why Chelios decided to shake just one hand is beyond me, but perhaps he agrees with Andrew Dice Clay that shaking hands is the most disgusting habit known to man.
Do you know where those hands have been, other than in sweaty hockey gloves and playing around with blood-stained jocks? Cheli may just be looking out for his own personal hygiene for all we know.
Honestly, I wish the NHL would tell NBC to go screw themselves instead of bending over backwards to accommodate a network that doesn't really care about the game.
Why are we waiting 5-6 days for the Cup Finals to start? The series should start by Saturday at the latest, and this just kills any momentum and hype the series would/can generate.
Up here? Leafs fans are staying away en masse and the ratings can be expected to be less than awesome. In the USA? Yeah, Anaheim is not a popular market, and the Ducks don't play a style that is exciting to casual fans. (Neither does Ottawa these days)
The NHL should have simply told NBC that the Finals would begin on Saturday. If the NBC wanted to broadcast quilt making, then the NHL could move the game to Versus, or simply play on without NBC broadcasting nationally. It's time for the NHL to put up a little bit of a fight for once.
As for my prediction, it'll come a bit later. Suffice it to say, now that Greg picked the Sens to win (see the post below), you can pretty much guarantee that they wont.
---
Over at The NHL Fanhouse, Greg Wyshynski tooks a look at Paris Hilton's hockey career, I take a look at how the Oilers benefited from the Ducks making the Finals, and Eric sees what scares the NHLers worse than a puckbunny with herpes.
PS: You want to talk about the impossible dream? Try finding a Nintendo Wii here in Canada. If I see anyone walking out of a Future Shop with one of these, they can expect a good mugging. (Or maybe I'll just beat up Ingmar and steal his)
So, the Stanley Cup Finals are set, and we'll have another Canadian team (Ottawa) face off against a non-traditional market (Anaheim) in another year where the Canucks and Leafs win squat.
Our favourite blogger from Alabama, Wayne, emailed me some of his playoff musings, to which I'll respond ...
Well, some of us (including myself) don't grow facial hair very well or very fast. It looks rather childish to go around with peach fuzz, rather than just keep a clean shaven look.
Speaking of playoff beards, where's Daniel Alfredsson's? Is it me, or did he miss the memo on how to grow a beard? He looks like a high-school English teacher...
Daniel Alfredsson has clearly gone from the Muppet to the clear-cut look, and it's working for him. He's all business, and his play speaks volumes about his commitment. Playoff facial hair is definitely more of a North American trend, methinks.
During the post-game presser last night, a reporter noticed that Chris Chelios only shook the hand of the Anaheim coach, but did not go through the line like everyone else...Would there be a fine for not waiting in the post-game line like everyone else?
The handshake is a tradition, and nothing more. There is no rule that says you need to shake hands at all, and a team could easily just walk back to the locker room to cry their heads off without acknowledging the other team. Why Chelios decided to shake just one hand is beyond me, but perhaps he agrees with Andrew Dice Clay that shaking hands is the most disgusting habit known to man.
Do you know where those hands have been, other than in sweaty hockey gloves and playing around with blood-stained jocks? Cheli may just be looking out for his own personal hygiene for all we know.
Dick Ebersol (head honcho at NBC Sports) has got to be wanting to jump off a ledge at 30 Rock right now for the Ottawa/'heim matchup...Not only do most U.S. people not know where (or what country) Ottawa is in, I don't think the majority of the L.A. market will tune in, either. (Remember the '02 World Series involving the Angels? Not many people watched, either...) I'm afraid this will get late-season XFL ratings...I'm hoping Ebersol does decide to jump. He's just another rich executive the world could live without.
Honestly, I wish the NHL would tell NBC to go screw themselves instead of bending over backwards to accommodate a network that doesn't really care about the game.
Why are we waiting 5-6 days for the Cup Finals to start? The series should start by Saturday at the latest, and this just kills any momentum and hype the series would/can generate.
Up here? Leafs fans are staying away en masse and the ratings can be expected to be less than awesome. In the USA? Yeah, Anaheim is not a popular market, and the Ducks don't play a style that is exciting to casual fans. (Neither does Ottawa these days)
The NHL should have simply told NBC that the Finals would begin on Saturday. If the NBC wanted to broadcast quilt making, then the NHL could move the game to Versus, or simply play on without NBC broadcasting nationally. It's time for the NHL to put up a little bit of a fight for once.
As for my prediction, it'll come a bit later. Suffice it to say, now that Greg picked the Sens to win (see the post below), you can pretty much guarantee that they wont.
---
Over at The NHL Fanhouse, Greg Wyshynski tooks a look at Paris Hilton's hockey career, I take a look at how the Oilers benefited from the Ducks making the Finals, and Eric sees what scares the NHLers worse than a puckbunny with herpes.
PS: You want to talk about the impossible dream? Try finding a Nintendo Wii here in Canada. If I see anyone walking out of a Future Shop with one of these, they can expect a good mugging. (Or maybe I'll just beat up Ingmar and steal his)
Labels: Daniel Alfredsson, playoffs, ramblings, stanley cup, third round
Thursday, May 10, 2007
Greg's Third Round Predictions
by Greg
I'm not sure why I still bother, since it's apparent that you could get equally good results flipping a coin. I'm still stinging from my bold pronouncement that the Ducks and Canucks were evenly matched -- maybe I just meant that their names rhyme. In any case, I'll soldier on, with the caveat that if you use these picks as the basis for gambling, you're a moron.
Buffalo vs Ottawa
I've done nothing but pick against Ottawa so far, apparently in the belief that Alexei Yashin is still on the team. I've been nothing but wrong. And, I'm sort of rooting for the Sens at this point (which dooms them -- sorry, Ottawa fans). As Jes pointed out, the Sabres looked a lot less convincing than the Senators in round two -- and against an inferior opponent.
So why am I sticking with the Sabres? Stubbornness? Stupidity? Ryan Miller? Take your pick.
Sabres in 7
Anaheim vs Detroit
Like the Sens, I've learned that picking against Detroit is very foolish. And in fact, I've started to wonder if picking against the Wings is motivated by my distaste for them, and that, in a roundabout way, makes me think I should pick them to win. Following all that?
In the end, though, Anaheim looks pretty damn good.
Anaheim in 6
I'm not sure why I still bother, since it's apparent that you could get equally good results flipping a coin. I'm still stinging from my bold pronouncement that the Ducks and Canucks were evenly matched -- maybe I just meant that their names rhyme. In any case, I'll soldier on, with the caveat that if you use these picks as the basis for gambling, you're a moron.
Buffalo vs Ottawa
I've done nothing but pick against Ottawa so far, apparently in the belief that Alexei Yashin is still on the team. I've been nothing but wrong. And, I'm sort of rooting for the Sens at this point (which dooms them -- sorry, Ottawa fans). As Jes pointed out, the Sabres looked a lot less convincing than the Senators in round two -- and against an inferior opponent.
So why am I sticking with the Sabres? Stubbornness? Stupidity? Ryan Miller? Take your pick.
Sabres in 7
Anaheim vs Detroit
Like the Sens, I've learned that picking against Detroit is very foolish. And in fact, I've started to wonder if picking against the Wings is motivated by my distaste for them, and that, in a roundabout way, makes me think I should pick them to win. Following all that?
In the end, though, Anaheim looks pretty damn good.
Anaheim in 6
Labels: ill-advised predictions, playoffs, third round
Tuesday, May 08, 2007
Gőlbez's Third Round Predictions
by Jes
So, I was 4-for-4 in the 2nd Round while Greg was 2-for-4. Obviously, this makes me twice as good as Greg. HA!
In the 1st Round, Greg was 50% (4-for-8) and is 6-for-12 overall. Moi? I went 6-for-8 and am now 10-for-12 (83%).
You may now lick the jam from in between my toes.
Now, let's ramble about Round Three.
---
I see a total lack of Cinderella teams, as all the semi-finalists are strong contenders for the cup with very deep rosters and a lot of talent. It's been awhile since we could say that.
Buffalo vs. Ottawa
Two high-powered offensive squads go head-to-head in what should be a fun series to watch.
Ray Emery has not been bad for the Senators, but his 91.9SV% is actually the lowest, by far, of the Final Four goalies. Ryan Miller has been spectacular thus far, and has answered the critics with strong play against some offensively talented Islanders and Rangers squads.
The Senators have been relying heavily on the Heatley-Alfredsson-Spezza trio, while the Sabres have spread out their scoring like a good peanut butter. If the Sabres can hold off the Sens' top line, they'll be well on their way back to the Finals.
One point against the Sabres is their woeful 79.6 PK% in the playoffs. They weren't all that good during the regular season, either. The Sens have the 2nd best playoff PP% at 22.7%.
While the Sens have played like a steamroller, the Sabres have looked rather shaky, despite the fact they've lost only 3 games. There is always the though that the Sabres could play better, but it could be just the fact that their team isn't packed with the same defensive presence up front that other teams have.
Prediction: Senators in 7. I'm going Canadian.
Detroit vs. Anaheim
Two very nice contrasts: the mechanical, finesse, euro-heavy Red Wings vs. the crash-and-bang, in-your-face, euro-light Anaheim Ducks.
Dominik Hasek is back to his old self with a 93.0SV% and a bit of goofiness in the crease. J-S Giguere has a eye-popping 95.2SV%, albeit built up against the Canucks' pathetic offence.
After years of playoff suckiness, Pavel Datsyuk is now 2nd on his team with 11 points in 12 games. The amazing Nick Lidstrom is first, and is controlling games just as well as he ever has. The rest of the offence hasn't been spectacular. The Wings have actually generated the most shots on goal, by far, with 445, but have a low 7% conversion rate. Unless Bertuzzi and Holmstrom can generate more chaos in front of the net, Giguere won't have a tough time handling outside shots, just like he did against the Canucks.
For the Ducks, they kind of have the same issue. Chris Pronger leads the team in scoring, and Samuel F. Pahlsson (!) is second on the team with 7 points. The Ducks' big guns (MacDonald, Selanne, Getzlaf) are capable of more.
The Wings PP was bad during the regular season, but has been effective in the playoffs. With the Ducks tendency to take some undisciplined penalties (they lead the NHL with 191 playoff PIMs), the Wings will have to do what the Canucks couldn't, and score Power Play goals. According to Yahoo!, the Ducks have a 94.6% success rate on penalty kills, and are also more effective with the man advantage.
Given the Ducks amazing defence, goaltending, and superior special teams, I'm going to have to call this series in their favour. That, and the Red Wings suck!
Prediction: Ducks in 6.
So, I was 4-for-4 in the 2nd Round while Greg was 2-for-4. Obviously, this makes me twice as good as Greg. HA!
In the 1st Round, Greg was 50% (4-for-8) and is 6-for-12 overall. Moi? I went 6-for-8 and am now 10-for-12 (83%).
You may now lick the jam from in between my toes.
Now, let's ramble about Round Three.
---
I see a total lack of Cinderella teams, as all the semi-finalists are strong contenders for the cup with very deep rosters and a lot of talent. It's been awhile since we could say that.
Buffalo vs. Ottawa
Two high-powered offensive squads go head-to-head in what should be a fun series to watch.
Ray Emery has not been bad for the Senators, but his 91.9SV% is actually the lowest, by far, of the Final Four goalies. Ryan Miller has been spectacular thus far, and has answered the critics with strong play against some offensively talented Islanders and Rangers squads.
The Senators have been relying heavily on the Heatley-Alfredsson-Spezza trio, while the Sabres have spread out their scoring like a good peanut butter. If the Sabres can hold off the Sens' top line, they'll be well on their way back to the Finals.
One point against the Sabres is their woeful 79.6 PK% in the playoffs. They weren't all that good during the regular season, either. The Sens have the 2nd best playoff PP% at 22.7%.
While the Sens have played like a steamroller, the Sabres have looked rather shaky, despite the fact they've lost only 3 games. There is always the though that the Sabres could play better, but it could be just the fact that their team isn't packed with the same defensive presence up front that other teams have.
Prediction: Senators in 7. I'm going Canadian.
Detroit vs. Anaheim
Two very nice contrasts: the mechanical, finesse, euro-heavy Red Wings vs. the crash-and-bang, in-your-face, euro-light Anaheim Ducks.
Dominik Hasek is back to his old self with a 93.0SV% and a bit of goofiness in the crease. J-S Giguere has a eye-popping 95.2SV%, albeit built up against the Canucks' pathetic offence.
After years of playoff suckiness, Pavel Datsyuk is now 2nd on his team with 11 points in 12 games. The amazing Nick Lidstrom is first, and is controlling games just as well as he ever has. The rest of the offence hasn't been spectacular. The Wings have actually generated the most shots on goal, by far, with 445, but have a low 7% conversion rate. Unless Bertuzzi and Holmstrom can generate more chaos in front of the net, Giguere won't have a tough time handling outside shots, just like he did against the Canucks.
For the Ducks, they kind of have the same issue. Chris Pronger leads the team in scoring, and Samuel F. Pahlsson (!) is second on the team with 7 points. The Ducks' big guns (MacDonald, Selanne, Getzlaf) are capable of more.
The Wings PP was bad during the regular season, but has been effective in the playoffs. With the Ducks tendency to take some undisciplined penalties (they lead the NHL with 191 playoff PIMs), the Wings will have to do what the Canucks couldn't, and score Power Play goals. According to Yahoo!, the Ducks have a 94.6% success rate on penalty kills, and are also more effective with the man advantage.
Given the Ducks amazing defence, goaltending, and superior special teams, I'm going to have to call this series in their favour. That, and the Red Wings suck!
Prediction: Ducks in 6.
Labels: ducks, playoffs, Red Wings, sabres, senators, third round
Wednesday, April 25, 2007
Greg's Second Round Picks
by Greg
(for Jes's picks, click here.)
Western Conference
Anaheim vs. Vancouver - Canucks in 7
I think they're pretty evenly matched, in the end. Edge goes to Vancouver because it would be unseemly for me to pick against them so soon after I jumped on their bandwagon.
Detroit vs. San Jose - Red Wings in 6
I feel pretty unclean making that pick, but as I've mentioned before, nothing about this Sharks team really thrills me. (Of course, they don't need to thrill me -- just win -- but I don't think they'll do that, either.)
Eastern Conference
New Jersey vs. Ottawa - Devils in 7
I've got some sort of mental block -- I just really don't think that it's possible for the Senators to win in the playoffs. If they were going up against some other team, and not the Robot Overlords of New Jersey, I might feel better, but...
Buffalo vs. NY Rangers - Sabres in 6
I have a feeling I'll regret this one, actually. Before round one I questioned the Rangers' heart and goaltending -- both were great against the poor, beleaguered Thrashers. They might have enough to beat the Sabres. But since my gut instincts are almost unfailingly wrong -- I'll go with my head here.
(for Jes's picks, click here.)
Western Conference
Anaheim vs. Vancouver - Canucks in 7
I think they're pretty evenly matched, in the end. Edge goes to Vancouver because it would be unseemly for me to pick against them so soon after I jumped on their bandwagon.
Detroit vs. San Jose - Red Wings in 6
I feel pretty unclean making that pick, but as I've mentioned before, nothing about this Sharks team really thrills me. (Of course, they don't need to thrill me -- just win -- but I don't think they'll do that, either.)
Eastern Conference
New Jersey vs. Ottawa - Devils in 7
I've got some sort of mental block -- I just really don't think that it's possible for the Senators to win in the playoffs. If they were going up against some other team, and not the Robot Overlords of New Jersey, I might feel better, but...
Buffalo vs. NY Rangers - Sabres in 6
I have a feeling I'll regret this one, actually. Before round one I questioned the Rangers' heart and goaltending -- both were great against the poor, beleaguered Thrashers. They might have enough to beat the Sabres. But since my gut instincts are almost unfailingly wrong -- I'll go with my head here.
Labels: playoffs, second round
It's Time for Duck L'Anaheim: Canuck Style!
by JesNow that the Canucks are set to meet the Ducks and do a little Duck Hunting, it's time for a new recipe.
Here is how the Canucks will make Duck L'Anaheim.
1. Devise strategy to locate and trap Duck (Vigneault)
2. Trip the Duck (Morrison)
3. Shoot Duck (Salo)
4. Beat Duck (Bieksa)
5. Catch Duck (Luongo)
6. Accidentally drop duck (Bulis)
7. Chop it's legs off (Burrows)
8. Start Cooke-ing the duck
9. Slowly turn the duck round and round and round (Sedins)
10. Add some spice (Cowan)
11. Finish Cooke-ing the Duck, and serve with a glass of Brian Burke Whine
12. Don't forget to wash your dishes afterward with a bit of Sopel
13. Save some room for spicey Red Wings or Shark Fin soup.
I have a much more extensive preview of the Canucks/Ducks series over at The NHL Fanhouse. BE sure to check out that and the other good previews there.
I also get a bet going with Earl Sleek of the Battle of California. When the Ducks are cooked, he gets to embarrass himself for my pleasure.
2nd Round Predictions:
Anaheim vs. Vancouver - Ducks in 6.
Canucks won't be able to score enough against a tough, goonish Anaheim team.
Detroit vs. San Jose - Wings in 7
Red Wings can stop Thornton/Cheechoo like the Predators couldn't.
New Jersey vs. Ottawa - Senators in 6
Senators have much more offensive depth and seem much more prepared to pay the price needed to win playoff hockey games.
Buffalo vs. New York Rangers - Sabres in 5
Sabres will have their way with the Rangers D in a very high-scoring series.
Labels: Canucks, ducks, playoffs, recipes, second round
Tuesday, April 24, 2007
Now Who Do I Support?
by Greg
Earlier than I hoped or expected, I've got the sad choice most hockey fans have to face at some point: with my teams all on the golf course, who do I support going forward?
Even beyond my normal teams (the Thrashers and the Avalanche, if you forgot -- I haven't been around much lately) my secondary teams are gone as well. St. Louis never made it, Nashville (my pre-season Stanley Cup pick) is gone, all the Southeastern Division teams are out.
So I've got to pick from a group that's none-too-appealing, if I want this season to have any meaning for me.
A look at the candidates:
Western Conference
Detroit Red Wings
Pros: Absolutely none.
Cons: My least favorite team. Amazing collection of jackasses.
The verdict: I'm not rooting for them to do anything except collectively get STDs.
Anaheim Ducks
Pros: Dropped the "Mighty" and the eggplant uniforms. I'm a Chris Pronger fan. A SoCal Stanley Cup winner would be kind of cool.
Cons: Brad May, who really should be an honorary Red Wing. And did they scrap Wild Wing this year?
The verdict: A definite possibility.
Vancouver Canucks
Pros: Having divested themselves of Bertuzzi and May, they're a lot easier to root for. I have a Vancouver Canucks Christmas ornament (from a relative who figured all hockey teams are basically equal). Roberto Luongo is a pleasure to watch. They've been around as long as the Sabres, and don't whine as much about not having a Cup. Vancouver is, by all accounts, a pleasant city.
Cons: My rooting for the Canucks would make Jes and Alanah smug and insufferable.
The verdict: They're a contender.
San Jose Sharks
Pros: Nothing offensive about this team.
Cons: Nothing interesting about this team.
The verdict: If it gets to the point where it's only the Sharks and a team I hate, I likely will have lost all interest in hockey. And, perhaps, life.
Buffalo Sabres
Pros: If you haven't heard, Buffalo is the city without championships, and good God they deserve one. I like Drury -- and in fact, a lot of their players. I've got friends from the area (well, Rochester) and they're all fine people.
Cons: If I have to hear any more whining about how the city of Buffalo has been wronged over the years, I'll vomit out my spine. Actually, a theoretical end to the whining would be a reason to cheer them on.
The verdict: Maybe if they end up against the Red Wings.
New Jersey Devils
Pros: There's something coldly impressive about their one-track-mind commitment to winning. And I know Jes thinks poorly of him, but Brodeur is pretty impressive.
Cons: Who wants to root for Lou Lamoriello? Also, there's something relentlessly dull and robotic about the Devils, even if they're scoring 18 goals.
The verdict: See Buffalo.
Ottawa Senators
Pros: They've often filled this void for me in the past. There's good karma in rooting for Canadian teams. I still like Heatley, and several other players.
Cons: They always end up falling short.
The verdict: Quite possible. I'm fond of them.
New York Rangers
Pros: Lots of Czechs. I admire the way they've built their team (after years of doing it the wrong way). I sort of half-assedly buy into the theory that a New York win spurs interest in the States. Brendan Shanahan was my favorite player in the early-mid '90s.
Cons: The Thrashers loss made me accustomed to spitting venom at them. Shanahan sure ain't my favorite player NOW.
The verdict: Maybe in another round. The pain's still too fresh.
So, all that taken into account -- as well as all sorts of esoteric calculations that I won't begin to explain -- the winner is:
The Vancouver Canucks.
Runner-up would be the Senators. Actually, all I want is for the Red Wings to fall short. That's all I ask.
Earlier than I hoped or expected, I've got the sad choice most hockey fans have to face at some point: with my teams all on the golf course, who do I support going forward?
Even beyond my normal teams (the Thrashers and the Avalanche, if you forgot -- I haven't been around much lately) my secondary teams are gone as well. St. Louis never made it, Nashville (my pre-season Stanley Cup pick) is gone, all the Southeastern Division teams are out.
So I've got to pick from a group that's none-too-appealing, if I want this season to have any meaning for me.
A look at the candidates:
Western Conference
Detroit Red Wings
Pros: Absolutely none.
Cons: My least favorite team. Amazing collection of jackasses.
The verdict: I'm not rooting for them to do anything except collectively get STDs.
Anaheim Ducks
Pros: Dropped the "Mighty" and the eggplant uniforms. I'm a Chris Pronger fan. A SoCal Stanley Cup winner would be kind of cool.
Cons: Brad May, who really should be an honorary Red Wing. And did they scrap Wild Wing this year?
The verdict: A definite possibility.
Vancouver Canucks
Pros: Having divested themselves of Bertuzzi and May, they're a lot easier to root for. I have a Vancouver Canucks Christmas ornament (from a relative who figured all hockey teams are basically equal). Roberto Luongo is a pleasure to watch. They've been around as long as the Sabres, and don't whine as much about not having a Cup. Vancouver is, by all accounts, a pleasant city.
Cons: My rooting for the Canucks would make Jes and Alanah smug and insufferable.
The verdict: They're a contender.
San Jose Sharks
Pros: Nothing offensive about this team.
Cons: Nothing interesting about this team.
The verdict: If it gets to the point where it's only the Sharks and a team I hate, I likely will have lost all interest in hockey. And, perhaps, life.
Buffalo Sabres
Pros: If you haven't heard, Buffalo is the city without championships, and good God they deserve one. I like Drury -- and in fact, a lot of their players. I've got friends from the area (well, Rochester) and they're all fine people.
Cons: If I have to hear any more whining about how the city of Buffalo has been wronged over the years, I'll vomit out my spine. Actually, a theoretical end to the whining would be a reason to cheer them on.
The verdict: Maybe if they end up against the Red Wings.
New Jersey Devils
Pros: There's something coldly impressive about their one-track-mind commitment to winning. And I know Jes thinks poorly of him, but Brodeur is pretty impressive.
Cons: Who wants to root for Lou Lamoriello? Also, there's something relentlessly dull and robotic about the Devils, even if they're scoring 18 goals.
The verdict: See Buffalo.
Ottawa Senators
Pros: They've often filled this void for me in the past. There's good karma in rooting for Canadian teams. I still like Heatley, and several other players.
Cons: They always end up falling short.
The verdict: Quite possible. I'm fond of them.
New York Rangers
Pros: Lots of Czechs. I admire the way they've built their team (after years of doing it the wrong way). I sort of half-assedly buy into the theory that a New York win spurs interest in the States. Brendan Shanahan was my favorite player in the early-mid '90s.
Cons: The Thrashers loss made me accustomed to spitting venom at them. Shanahan sure ain't my favorite player NOW.
The verdict: Maybe in another round. The pain's still too fresh.
So, all that taken into account -- as well as all sorts of esoteric calculations that I won't begin to explain -- the winner is:
The Vancouver Canucks.
I feel a little queasy about this, I'll admit. I still remember the Steve Moore hit. There's plenty of bad blood.
But all things being equal -- a Canucks win would be most pleasurable to see. A team that's been around a while, a good fan base.
Runner-up would be the Senators. Actually, all I want is for the Red Wings to fall short. That's all I ask.
Labels: Canucks, hating detroit, playoffs, second round
