The Official Short-Media NHL Thread

[Kwitko]

Well, the season has officially begun. It's HOCKEY TIME! Chime in about your favorite team, who's going to make the playoffs, and who's going to take home Lord Stanley's Cup.

My predictions: Sens will choke.;D

[Thrax]

I'm hoping the wings will rebound from last year's choke. Since 1994, the Wings getting eliminated in the first round meant they make it to the finals the next year.

The return of Hasek and the probable leaving of Joseph to the Bruins bodes well with the chances of victory. My only reservation is the lack of Yzerman and Federov. We'll have to see how well Datsyuk and Zetterberg step up in their new role. It'll also be interesting to see how the Wings function with their new focus on defence (Chelios, Lidstrom, Hatcher; Top defencemen in the league) as opposed to the offensive modes they've used in the past.

[TBonZ]

TD_Isles said
My predictions: Sens will choke.;D

Not before the slimanders - (pronounced) - Slime - an -ders.

Colorado looks fantastic, if they can strenghten their blueline and get half decent goaltending, they will be the team to beat.

Woohoo, Ottawa and Montreal 7PM sharp! :thumbsup:

[Kwitko]

Isles-Washington 7PM. Isles haven't beaten the Caps on the road since 97. I hope this new 1-2-2 trap they're employing bring them success. I hope they can build off the 7-0 preseason start.

[TheLostSwede]

Go Avalanche!

My only worries is that it smells a "Rangers" thing with high paybills and a pretty old team.
They HAVE to end the season with the highest amount of goals scored with those forwards, otherwise they are screwed.

[SimGuy]

Wings out in 2nd round. This year will be the year of Vancouver. Their team last year really sat in the limelight, but this year, those rookie hotshots will actually start putting their talents to use.

No NHL thread is official without mentioning those Canadian favourites: GO LEAFS GO. :D

[Nomad]

Colorado looks to be a strong offensive team this year. However, they will need to bucket in atleast four goals a game to overcome the lack of a better than decent netminder and a shotty defence. I want my Red Wings to win this year since it's going to be the last year for a lot of them, especially Yzerman.

[TBonZ]

Sorry to see the Isles lose so badly tonight TD......NOT!!!! ;D

Well, so far so good, OTT 5 - MTL 2, not overly exciting but a solid win nonetheless. :)

I hear ya Mack, stacking your redline does not guarantee success, NYR being the source to that rule. :crazy:

SimGuy - No more talk of the leafs in here, OK? ;) ;D

Hallock - Ottawa and Detroit play Saturday, can't wait for that! :thumbup

[Kwitko]

Don't make me edit your post, TBonZ!!!
Yes, the Isles came out tentative and apparently fully aware that they bring the Curse of the Bambino with them whenever they play the Caps. Well, just 1 game, there are still 81 left to play. There's a reason why they say you can't win 'em all.

Ranjerks play the Wild tomorrow. GO WILD!!!

[Marsupial]

Erm... I think the habs will be generous ennough this year again to let some other team get the punch bowl...

24 stanleys is still ennough for one city... we'll wait.

[TheLostSwede]

Hallock^2 said
Colorado looks to be a strong offensive team this year. However, they will need to bucket in atleast four goals a game to overcome the lack of a better than decent netminder and a shotty defence. I want my Red Wings to win this year since it's going to be the last year for a lot of them, especially Yzerman.

I wouldn´t be to sure about that the Av´s goalie is THAT bad. I he where, he would play in Italy.

TD_Isles said
Don't make me edit your post, TBonZ!!!
Yes, the Isles came out tentative and apparently fully aware that they bring the Curse of the Bambino with them whenever they play the Caps. Well, just 1 game, there are still 81 left to play. There's a reason why they say you can't win 'em all.

Ranjerks play the Wild tomorrow. GO WILD!!!

The Islanders have one of the best players i have seen in Marius Cherkawski. He´s a half-swede that used to play in Djurgarden and he is VERY popular there.

[qparadox]

Canucks all the way, those Colorado bums don't stand a chance :D.

[Tiribulus]

Thrax said
lack of Yzerman...

I had the same forboding doubts, but even though it's only one game and one goal he looked to be pretty much his old self over all, if they can maintain that knee. I don't know what i think's gonna happen this year. Lotta shakeups, retirements, big moves, changes of ownership, the coming CBA, I just don't know what to think this early.
>>>--Tiribulus->:D

[Tiribulus]

Yo T,
We get an early start this year huh? Should be a good game. I suspect a close one.
>>>--Tiribulus->:D

[Thrax]

Sens vs. Wings. WOO WOO.


Can't wait to see this one go down. :D

[Tiribulus]

I'm there Homey!! Good 1st so far. Tbonz is bound to be here before the night's over.
>>>--Tiribulus->:D

[Thrax]

Hopefully using this :bawling: emote

[Tiribulus]

I would've said that until that last play that resulted in a Sens goal. Jist a glitch:thumbsup:
>>>--Tribulus->:D

[Kwitko]

Rangers down 4-0 to Columbus.:D Isles up 2-0 over the Sabres.:D So far it's making up for the bad loss on Thursday.

[Tiribulus]

On another note, I see you have still have not forgiven Darcy Tucker:rolleyes:
>>>--Tiribulus->:D

[Tiribulus]

Wierd game here? We are winning, but momentum changes every 2 minutes. Tbonz is not in the house, which must mean he's working. The Sens do look formidable as ever.
>>>--Tiribulus->:D

[Tiribulus]

WOOHOO the Norris trohy winning Lidstrom wins it in ot!!!!!
>>>--Tiribulus->:D

[Kwitko]

Tiribulus said
On another note, I see you have still have not forgiven Darcy Tucker:rolleyes:
>>>--Tiribulus->:D

Actually that's Shayne Corson getting a lesson in pain from Eric Cairns, but no, I haven't forgiven Darcy. :)

[TBonZ]

OMG, I had written a huge long@ss post and my computer mysteriously rebooted before I hit send. :bawling: :bawling: :bawling:

Congrats Detroit fans, it came down to penalties and your not going get any breaks with giving the Wings eight power play chances, especially in O/T. Hard fought game, it's really too bad that this is the last meeting for these two this season.
:banghead:

Yzerman has matched his total output from last season in scoring his second goal in two games, it's a damn shame that this could be the last time Stevie Y plays professionally in the Nation's capital. :bawling:

NYI over Buffalo 6 - 0, Yashin picks up two goals.....BOOOO!!!! ;)

The Canadiens shutout Toronto tonight, how freak'n sweet is that?!?! :D

And on a sentimental note, it's great to see the Thrashers at 2 - 0 right now. :)

[TheLostSwede]

Well, didn´t just the Av´s goalie shut our mouths then. Opening with a shutout, all the forward stars did REAL good, Selanne and Kariya (DANG he was good) back to partnership, Hejduk and Forsberg opened strong (If Hejduk don´t score most goals in NHL this season, i´m gonna eat my hat). The Blues will learn a lesson tonight.

BTW, since this thread is about NHL (brilliant thread), i must pimp for the NHL 2004 game review i did.

http://www.icronticgames.com/index.php?**********1&&articleid=509

Get the game, it´s awesome.

Please make this thread stuck.

[Tiribulus]

WOW! Wadda game between Colorado and St Louis last night. Osgood of all people stole the show with a Vezina caliber performance including the defeat of two two man disadvantages and some flat down spectacular short work while being swarmed in tight. Both of these teams look to be quite formidable if last nights game is any indication. However, The Avs for all that 200 proof offense only managed one goal. Pronger looked ready to roll which can only mean trouble for the opposition.

TD_Isles said
[/B] Actually that's Shayne Corson getting a lesson in pain from Eric Cairns, but no, I haven't forgiven Darcy. :) [/B][/QUOTE] I assumed it was Tucker because of the amateur surgery he performed on Peca, but now that you say it's Corson I remeber that I actually saw that game.

>>>--Tiribulus->:D

[Kwitko]

Tiribulus said
I assumed it was Tucker because of the amateur surgery he performed on Peca, but now that you say it's Corson I remeber that I actually saw that game.

>>>--Tiribulus->:D

I even have videos from that series! Cairns getting the best of Corson (http://www.kwitko.net/files/cairns_corson.wmv)
Bates penalty shot (http://www.kwitko.net/files/bates_penalty_shot.wmv)

I just hope the Isles can bring the glory back to NY. Saturday's game was a step in the right direction.

As for Blues-'Lanche, Ozzie pulls another amazing game out of his bag. Wait until next game when he does the 'ol "Soft Goal Shuffle". :rolleyes:

[TheLostSwede]

I almost couldn´t believe it when i saw the results. On the other hand, the Avalanche have always had trouble with the Blues.

[Tiribulus]

Yeah I was pretty much giving this one to Colorado before the game started.
@TD:
Bates did pound Crson in that one. Ya know Corson's tough and fearless, but it seems like he gets his a$$ beat quite a bit of the time. Also Osgood has been known to come out after a spectacular game and leave you wondering which guy is the real Chris Osgood. I do hope for his sake he can shake that habit, because games like last night show that if he can keep focused he can rock with the big boys. I root for the Isles just for you Buddy, cuz I'm not normally a NY team fan to be honest or NJ for that matter.
@Tbonz:
Yeah this will most likely be Stevie's last year. The knee surgery he had normally does not allow anything but decent walking ability and his doctor begged him not to play hockey ever again. He is looking like his old self though. Scored with 1.7 left in reg. against LA and then again against the Sens. I hope he can have one last good year to retire from. He's arguably the best captain ever.
On yet another note, since Fedorov left we haven't lost and the Dux haven't won:doh: I wish him the best, but like I told T a while back, I don't think he'll be as good for them as he was for us.
>>>--Tiribulus->:D

[Flintstone]

I just had to pop in here as I was at the Bruin-Panther game Saturday night and the Marlins-Cubs game on Sunday and saw a GREAT performance by BOTH Florida teams! I know no one expects the Panthers to do anything, but they played the Bruins straight up for the 1st and 3rd periods and slept through the 2nd period but still tied. Mark my words, watch them this season. They're a LOT better than they were last year!

(I'm sure noone expected to hear from a Florida fan in a Hockey thread, did ya?!?!?!?):wave:

GO MARLINS!!













P.S. I was born in Chicago so I kind of feel like a traitor, but I'll get over it!!

Flint:cool2:

[Tiribulus]

All hockey fans are welcome as far as I'm concerned. Look at Mackanz:wave: He's like over in Norseland somewhere:scratch: I've always kinda silently wished Florida well. I like to see underdogs rise because it's good for the sport and grows smaller markets. I do mean that in a serious and positive way. That's why it was so good to see Minnesota and Anaheim go so deep last year. Wasn't nearly as good as having the Wings win another cup, but nice nonetheless.
>>>--Tiribulus->:D

[Tiribulus]

http://www.freep.com/sports/redwings/wings18_20031018.htm

Censor me if you must, but do we have a knee demon in HOCKEYTOWN!!!! WTF, can we be healthy for a year or no, ****!
>>>Tiribulus->:D

[TheLostSwede]

Tiribulus had this to say
http://www.freep.com/sports/redwings/wings18_20031018.htm

Censor me if you must, but do we have a knee demon in HOCKEYTOWN!!!! WTF, can we be healthy for a year or no, ****!
>>>Tiribulus->:D

That´s Hatchers style of play. Sooner or later, the bubble bursts, especially in this sport. Look at Forsberg, the only season he decided to be REALLY rough and tough, he got injured big time and gone for the bigger part of that season. I think it was the 00-01 season.

[Kwitko]

Tirib, that sucks about Hatcher. Did you see the Blues lost MacInnis? He's having eye surgery. Rumors are it's a detached retina. Wow, two veteran D-men down and out for a while.

Islanders home opener tonight, w00t! They're playing Florida. NY vs. Florida in hockey, NY vs. Florida in baseball. Good omens for the Isles, I hope.

[Tiribulus]

Wadda ya gonna do I guess? I had long visions of Hatcher doin his thing on our behalf, but no. Fischer, who I saw with his parents @ Greenfield Village blew out his knee last year and Stevie had his rebuilt. Knees I'm tellin ya knees hate to play to play here. I dunno.
>>>--Tiribulus->:D

[Tiribulus]

Mackanz had this to say
Tiribulus had this to say
http://www.freep.com/sports/redwings/wings18_20031018.htm

Censor me if you must, but do we have a knee demon in HOCKEYTOWN!!!! WTF, can we be healthy for a year or no, ****!
>>>Tiribulus->:D

That´s Hatchers style of play. Sooner or later, the bubble bursts, especially in this sport. Look at Forsberg, the only season he decided to be REALLY rough and tough, he got injured big time and gone for the bigger part of that season. I think it was the 00-01 season.
U R right 2,
But Y while he's on our side?
Good grief dudes,
I guess I shouldn't complain, (Lidstrom and his buddy's are pretty good,) but Hatcher gave us the best defense in the league. We'll be alright I suppose, dammit,
Greg

[shwaip]

woohooo pens over wings 4-3. It was a pretty good game too :D

[Kwitko]

Isles 5-1 over Maple Leafs with 13:00 left in the 3rd. Isles chase Belfour from net with 4 goals on 9 shots. Godard just had his 2nd fight of the night. Wow, this is an Islanders team I can be proud of.

[Kwitko]

Excuse me. Hellooooooo!!! It is hockey season, right? Anyway, big game tonight, Isles-Sens at the Coliseum. It's knotted at 1-1 at the end of the 1st. Ottawa is *fast*, but the Islanders have been studying their moves, their system, and it's going to be a good game for once. Finally.

Is this the night the Isles break their 15 game home loss schnide against Ottawa? Well, tonight looks like their best chance to do so in a long time.

[Kwitko]

YEAHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH BABEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE!!!!!!!!!

Isles up 3-1 on the Sens!

[TBonZ]

Yeah, enjoy it while it lasts Seth, Thursday Jan 1 in Ottawa is reckoning day. :screwed:

Tirib - How are you man?

[TheLostSwede]

Damn, the Avalanche is suffering without Forsberg. That's weak considering what kind of team they have. On the other hand, all teams that faces them packs all 5 players in their own net all the time.

[profdlp]

Hockey? Haven't seen much this year...

...even though I've watched several games.

I am a Caps fan... :banghead: :doh: :eek3: :shakehead :thumbsdow

[tycho]

I see that this has dropped down quite a bit so i think i will brag about my flyers

Undefeated at home 8-0-2, #1 in ESPN's power rankings :D

[keto]

5 straight for the oilers.

the dynasty is back!!@! Ok, they're all in their 40's and it's just an exhibition game lol. Gonna be fun Saturday, the outdoor game. They're gonna freeze their a**es off, it's gonna be about -7C/20F daytime high - by the time for the REAL game, it'll be colder. Hope they all suffer, overpaid louts lol. The backup goalies will have fun, just sitting there 45 min at a time.

[maxanon]

Yeah, but they'll be on heated benches. All the bench warmers are gonna have a great game cause the bench will be warming them. I feel bad for the goaltenders, at least he players can heat up in between shifts.

I've played outdoor hockey and its not fun. You need to stop cause after a certain point you're sucking down freezing air straight into your lungs. On the other hand, once you stop, that layer of sweat is going to freeze on your back.

Its the way hockey is meant to be played. Now, its a man's sport.

[Tiribulus]

TD,
I've been conspicuously absent due to my new job, but must appear to say that I'm obviously happy about the outcome of the first period. I miss you guys. Have barely been able to breathe the last several months.
>>>-Tiribulus->:D

[Tiribulus]

I'll try not to rub it in too hard, but the Wings opened a big ol can a whoop-@$$ on the Isles tonight bro.

[Kwitko]

Ugh. The local high school team could open up a can of whoop-ass on the Isles right now. They are playing like complete crap. I don't think they've scored a goal in 6 months.

[Tiribulus]

OW!!!
Can't be as bad as all that Guvner! You know how it goes. 2 weeks can turn the standings upsidedown. Lots of surprises this year, but still early.
>>>--Tiribulus->:D

[Kwitko]

Lost 6-0 to Detroit, 5-1 to the Flyers on consecutive nights. On the plus side, they scored for the first time in 136 minutes and scored the first PP goal in over a month.

[profdlp]

Tiribulus had this to say
OW!!!
Can't be as bad as all that Guvner! You know how it goes. 2 weeks can turn the standings upsidedown. Lots of surprises this year, but still early.
>>>--Tiribulus->:D
Be grateful you're not a Washington Caps fan.

This is after their best 10-game stretch of the season...:banghead:

[Thrax]

It's curious that Detroit remains in the top 3 even in an "Off year" rife with players leaving and a string of serious injuries for key players.

[profdlp]

Thrax had this to say
It's curious that Detroit remains in the top 3 even in an "Off year" rife with players leaving and a string of serious injuries for key players.
Curious?

I'd say that it's a case of the team being greater than the sum of its parts.

Just the opposite of my pathetic Caps... :shakehead

prof awaits Spring Training - let's Play Ball!!!

[Thrax]

Perhaps curious was not so apt a word...Rather, exhilarating, or perhaps humourous, or even very very nice. :D

[Kwitko]

It's a testament to Detroit's players and coaching staff. The team, from the general manager on down, has dedicated themselves to becoming a world-class organization. On the other side you have the New York Islanders. This is a team that has a GM who thinks that telling the entire team they could be gone at the drop of a hat is good motivation.

Since releasing Jason Wiemer the team has won once and lost to 3 of the worst teams in the league. Good job, Mad Mike! :rolleyes:

[profdlp]

Mr. Kwitko had this to say
Since releasing Jason Wiemer the team has won once and lost to 3 of the worst teams in the league. :rolleyes:
As soon as I saw "3 of the worst teams in the league" I checked the schedule, fearing the worst. Things will likely get better for the Isles: You get to play us December 21st. Consider it an early Christmas present... :bawling:

[Kwitko]

Are you not aware of the curse of Dale Hunter? :) The Isles couldn't beat the Caps if the Caps spotted them 3 goals. There's a hex upon my team. What are they, like 0-417 against the Caps over the last 7 or so years?

And as I stated, playing the worst teams is no guarantee for the Isles. I think they're averaging -2 goals per game over the last 10. :banghead:

[profdlp]

Mr. Kwitko had this to say
Are you not aware of the curse of Dale Hunter? :) The Isles couldn't beat the Caps if the Caps spotted them 3 goals.
I dunno, they've spotted everyone else in the league 3 goals, and don't have much to show for it...

There's a hex upon my team. What are they, like 0-417 against the Caps over the last 7 or so years?
My last glimmer of hope was removed when they abolished the old Patrick Division. We had some good rivalries where you could at least expect a good game, even if your team was "down" for the year. Seems like no one on the Caps cares a hoot about a game vs. a Florida team.

And as I stated, playing the worst teams is no guarantee for the Isles. I think they're averaging -2 goals per game over the last 10. :banghead:
Cheer up. Everyone get's a little "Gretzky" when they play the Caps... :banghead: :scratch:

[Kwitko]

Oh yeah? Well my team sucks worse than yours! ;D

[profdlp]

Does that mean that the Caps suck "better"?

:bawling: :scratch: :confused2 :rolleyes2 :eek2: :eek3: :wtf:

...yup, probably does...

[Tiribulus]

Geez Dudes!!!
Let's don't quibble over whose team can out suck the other's:scratch: Though I would've been in on that conversation not so long ago when Red Wings had me genuinely wondering whether the glory days may be truly past. They were playing so bad as to make me wonder if someome had drugged their powerade. Then they started that extra special practice they engage in from time to time of looking vaguely professional again only to get their @sses handed to them by Columbus and Washington. They've since scored 15 goals in their last three games and really tightened up the defense and board game. They actually have managed, as Thrax points out, to stay afloat in the standings through all this. If the recent past is any indication they're now due to be publicly undressed by Anaheim tomorrow. What am I saying!!!! Inconsistency will do that to ya, but I really hope they're finding their stride now. TD makes a good point too. Our whole organization supports each other from Mike Illitch and Ken Holland, down to the players. Threats only piss players off and make them even more frustrated than they already must be. Jagr on the other hand needs a spanking or something. He needs to get on board because he ain't movin anytime soon with that salary and arm wrestling with the suits isn't going to get you far either.
>>>--Tiribulus->:D

[Kwitko]

Well, prof, I was right. The Isles lost to the Caps, like always. Isles now have 6 consecutive losses, and in that span have been outscored 22-5, including 2 shutouts.

Ticket prices are way up, attendance is way down, and $20 says Steve Stirling is gone before the end of the year. Of course, that's because you can't fire the players. I can't figure out how a team that started the season so well can fall into such a major funk. I mean, they were 9-6-2-0 before this 6-game slide. That was good enough for 3rd in the Atlantic, now they're just about basement dwellers.

It hasn't been easy being an Islanders fan, but I refuse to abandon my team.

[Tiribulus]

It's still early enough to turn it around. The Wings went on a 5 or 6 game losing streak here not too long ago where they were allowing tons of goals and couldn't score to save their lives. Now they've outscored opponents 15-2 in their last three. Teams need support the most when their struggling which is why real fans never do abandon their teams. 2/3 of the season still left here. How many times have we seen the standings change like a political campaign?
>>>--Tiribulus->:D

[Kwitko]

Tomorrow marks the first Isles-Ranjerks game for the season. It would be absolutely amazing if my Isles could end their schnide with a win against their cross-town rivals.

[profdlp]

In the standings pic I sent in a while back I noted that the Caps were coming off their best 10-game stretch of the season. (Meaning to underscore how bad they were - virtually last even after an upturn.)

Last night the Caps won two in a row for the first time this season (the last team in the NHL to accomplish that "masterful" feat). I guess with the NHL's "Y'all Come" policy on making the playoffs, it would be better to have a strong second half after a poor start, than vice-versa. It remains to be seen if this is truly a turning point. No offense, Mr.K, but I'm not ready to start jumping for joy when our only winning streak of the season is comprised of back-to-back wins over the BJ's and Isles.

As far as Jagr, he is being savaged in the Washington press. After years where the Caps were ignored by previous owner Abe Pollin (in favor of his NBA team - the mighty Wizards!), we had a new owner who spent the big money on a top-notch player, only to have him turn into an overpaid crybaby.

Bitter? I'm not bitter... :rolleyes: :banghead: :p

[Tiribulus]

I almost feel guilty to report that my beloved Red Wings have now outscored opponents 22-4 in their last 4 with a 7-2 blitzkrieg on Anaheim tonight. Sergei did however score one of the Ducks goals. I was angered at the way he was incessantly booed by the crowd. He was with our team for 13 seasons and 3 championships which he contributed to hugely, not to mention building a sports center for inner city kids with 1.3 million of his own money. He also paid many visits to hospitals spending time with terminally ill kids. Say what you will, all publicity etc, he still doesn't deserve to be treated that way. I was dissappointed in my fellow fans.
>>>--Tiribulus->:D

[pseudonym]

Tiribulus had this to say
I almost feel guilty to report that my beloved Red Wings have now outscored opponents 22-4 in their last 4 with a 7-2 blitzkrieg on Anaheim tonight. Sergei did however score one of the Ducks goals. I was angered at the way he was incessantly booed by the crowd. He was with our team for 13 seasons and 3 championships which he contributed to hugely, not to mention building a sports center for inner city kids with 1.3 million of his own money. He also paid many visits to hospitals spending time with terminally ill kids. Say what you will, all publicity etc, he still doesn't deserve to be treated that way. I was dissappointed in my fellow fans.
>>>--Tiribulus->:D

Yeah, that was TOTAL BS. Detroit fans may love their team, but they are the biggest AHOLES around. I'm proud to be one of them:) Cept I wouldn't have booed Sergei. That was horrible, and tasteless.

[Thrax]

No, Flyers fans are the biggest *******s around.

[profdlp]

Thrax had this to say
No, Flyers fans are the biggest *******s around.
Without a doubt. They make Ranger fans look worthy of the fan equivalent of the Lady Byng award. :shakehead

[Tiribulus]

@ TD, (OK Mr Kwitko, I can't get used to it):doh:

I know it blows to have this losing streak going, but I really think the NYI mgmnt is overreacting. Sincerely. I just read Milbury's comments, probably under pressure from Wang, and good frickin grief!!! "Somebody's gotta go, anybody"? It's a losing streak, 6 games, which is no fun, but is also not the end of the world. Every team will have things like this sometimes. Even if personnel changes are needed these guys are killing the Isles locker room with nasty condescending talk like this. I feel for ya man. I hope things improve there soon.
>>>--Tiribulus->:D
BTW, where's Tbonz been?

[Kwitko]

Islanders-Rangers on right now. See you guys when the game is over!

[tycho]

Thrax had this to say
No, Flyers fans are the biggest *******s around.

This is very true, but you are thinking too narrowly... all Philadelphia sports fans are a bunch of *******s... and yes that is an admission of guilt :D

[Kwitko]

BULL**** CALL ON PECA!! OPEN YOUR DAMN EYES, REFS!! :mad: :mad: :mad: :mad: :mad: :mad:

[Kwitko]

:shakehead

[DogSoldier]

How bout them Leafs eh?!

[profdlp]

Mr. Kwitko had this to say
:shakehead
The CRaps, uh... Caps kept pace. 3-0 loss tonight.

:scratch: :rolleyes: :werr: :shakehead :rant: :-/ :zombie: :sawed: :rarr:

Devils 3, Capitals 0
...New Jersey Devils ended a four-game winless skid with a 3-0 victory over the Washington Capitals on Thursday night...

...The Capitals had won two straight for the first time this season...

...The Capitals were barely competitive in the first period as the Devils had a 13-1 shot advantage...

...Washington had four shots in the final period...

[Tiribulus]

The wings overcome a 3-0 deficit entering the third and manage a 4-4 tie with the Blues.
>>>--Tiribulus->:D

[Tiribulus]

DogSoldier had this to say
How bout them Leafs eh?!

We'll see Sat. night eh?:wave:
>>>--Tiribulus->:D

[DogSoldier]

Yes, I'm sure that's gonna be a good game. Leafs always get stoked for Hockey Night in Canada. Wings should do much better than the Bruins did last night. Or better than what Barnaby did with Domi last tuesday...

[Tiribulus]

I agree, should be a great game. The Leafs are having an excellent season. And the Wings have been good lately too. Always a fiery matchup between these two.
>>>--Tiribulus->:D

[profdlp]

DogSoldier had this to say
...Or better than what Barnaby did with Domi last tuesday...
Is it just me, or does anyone else really enjoy seeing Barnaby getting his butt kicked? I haven't hated a guy so much since Billy Smith retired. (Sorry, Mr. K... :p )

[Kwitko]

Barnaby and Darcy Tucker. I love watching those 2 get pummelled mercilessly.

[Tiribulus]

DogSoldier had this to say
How bout them Leafs eh?!
Yep:shakehead

[DogSoldier]

Yes.

[Kwitko]

THE ISLANDERS WIN!! THE ISLANDERS WIN!!
:celebrate :celebrate

They *finally* break the schnide. Granted, it was against a Chicago Blackhawks team winless in its last 12, but a win is a win.

Charles Wang, the Isles' owner, really did something nice for the fans, too. Because of the Nor'easter, anyone who had tickets for last night's game- regardless of whether or not they used them- gets to go to another game on the house! It's the least he could do for us long-suffering fans. :)

[profdlp]

The Craps fired their coach today (http://www.foxsports.com/content/view?contentId=1938638).

Now they can blame their losses on the "adjustment period".

[Tiribulus]

Geeez wadda day,
The Junior Wings beat the Sabres 7-2 with 10 major injuries and an army of children.
>>>--Tiribulus->:D

[Kwitko]

Isles lost in OT on the road against the Devils. Garth Snow stood on his head. Snowy stopped a penalty shot. Snowy stopped a ton of shots. I'll take the point. :)

Prof, do you think that firing was a long time coming or a surprise? The Caps had been playing better as of late and Jagr seemed to be coming back into form.

[profdlp]

Mr. Kwitko had this to say
Prof, do you think that firing was a long time coming or a surprise? The Caps had been playing better as of late and Jagr seemed to be coming back into form.
There was talk that Coach Cassidy wouldn't make it out of October. Then he was going to be a goner by Thanksgiving. So no, I'm not too surprised. This isn't the first time the Craps gambled on a young coach. Remember Gary Green coaching them at age 26 in the '70's?

As far as playing better and Jagr coming back into form, all Cassidy did was stick Jagr, Bondra, and Lang on the same line. This worked well for a few games until teams figured out that all they had to do was stop the "All-Star" line since the Craps don't seem to have anyone else capable of putting the puck in the net.

I also think Kolzig has begun to swing from one extreme to the other. Either he tries to carry the whole team by himself, or he gets so mad over the lack of support he loses it.

At least I can look forward to seeing the 'Skins in the NFL playoffs!

...ring...ring...call for prof...ring...ring...we have news for you...

[Kwitko]

<Best Bill Clinton voice>
Hey prof, I feel your pain.
</Best Bill Clinton voice>

I'm an Islanders and NY Giants fan. My hockey team went on a 7 game skid, and my football team fumbles more times per game than some teams do in a season. Playoffs? HAH! Teams don't beat the Giants, they just sit back and let the Giants do it to themselves. The Islanders will get back into the race if they finish strong. In spite of a 7 game losing streak they are only 2 points behind their crosstown rival, the Ranjerks, with a game in hand.

Fear not, prof, things will turn around. Even if the Caps don't make the playoffs, they'll get a good coach, get some quality draft picks, call up some young guns, and they'll turn it around. I endured 7 straight losing Isles seasons, so a couple of bad years for the Caps is child's play to and Islanders fan. :)

[Thrax]

Hockeytown's army of children are most team's first line. ;D

[profdlp]

Mr. Kwitko had this to say
...Fear not, prof, things will turn around. Even if the Caps don't make the playoffs, they'll get a good coach, get some quality draft picks, call up some young guns, and they'll turn it around...
Send me some of what you're drinking... :D

That's what the Redskins did. Hired Norv Turner (then Spurrier), drafted Heath Shuler, let Stephen Davis go for nothing, etcetra etcetera etmf'ingcetera... :banghead:

5-8, and playing out the string... :banghead:

Well, you could be right. We'll just have to wait and see.
:confused2

[Tiribulus]

Thrax had this to say
Hockeytown's army of children are most team's first line. ;D

Why do I feel duty bound to second that. Some are saying that once Detroit's hall of famers inevitably retire the team is destined for the back shelf. I confess I have entertained that notion myself from time to time, however, Kenny Holland and his team have proven once more that they posses a "a scary judge of talent" Al Pacino, The Recruit. You could not possibly dream of asking more of Datsyuk for instance in the absence of many of our top players. Being forced to witness what our youngsters are made of has really given me confidence in our future.
>>>-Tiribulus->:D
BTW, the little hat on the A is way too cool:thumbsup:

[Kwitko]

Great Isles-Devils game tonight. 5-4 Isles right now, the last 3 goals of the game scored in a span of 30 seconds.

[Tiribulus]

Mr. Kwitko had this to say
Great Isles-Devils game tonight. 5-4 Isles right now, the last 3 goals of the game scored in a span of 30 seconds.

No goals in the first two games to 5 in this one. That should be pretty satisfying huh? Actually if I remember right the Devils shut out the Isles in their last meeting last year too so They must be feeling good to have gotten five past Brodeur this time.
>>--Tiribulus->:D

[Kwitko]

Tiribulus had this to say
[QUOTE]Mr. Kwitko had this to say
[B]They must be feeling good to have gotten five past Brodeur time

No doubt. By the way, the Devils came 16 seconds away from becoming the team with the longest shutout streak againt the Isles. The team they would have unseated? The 72-74 Detroit Redwings!

I'm not worried about the Isles now. They have earned 9 of 10 points in their last 5, and have a soft schedule ahead of them for the next few games:
at NY Rangers (Always a battle)
at Philadelphia (Only one loss at home for Philly so far this season)
at Washington (Isles winless in their last 5000 against them)
Philadelphia (Tough team away from home too)
at New Jersey (Defending Cup champs, this one's a cakewalk)
Toronto (11 wins in their last 12, the loss coming in overtime. Entertaining nonetheless because of the bad blood between these 2)
New Jersey (Again, defending Cup champs. How hard could this be? ;))
Pittsburgh (okay, this one they should win)

[Tiribulus]

OK guys,
I'm officially stating that the Wings should keep Cujo and find a way to dump Hasek. Joseph is displaying a work ethic and result that I would like to see carried into the playoffs. For his sake and ours. It isn't going to happen, but I'm thinking outloud.
>>>-Tiribulus->:D

[Kwitko]

I still don't understand why Hasek came back anyway.

[Tiribulus]

He had the contract option and decided he wanted to come back to the shock of the whole world... especially us. We had to accept it or let someone else pick up his contract. He's not doing anything bad, but I just think Cujo has found his groove with the wings and he,s playing excellent, even though we sent him to the minors 2 weeks ago.
>>>--Tiribulus->:D

[Tiribulus]

I just checked Lets Go Wings (http://letsgowings.com/) .com and I'm not alone either.
>>>--Tiribulus->:D

[Tiribulus]

Ahh Yes,
THIS (http://gregnmary.zapto.org/NHL.htm) is the how the league standings look as of this morning:thumbsup:
>>>--Tiribulus->:D

[profdlp]

Wish I coulda been there... :D

Bad Santa's at Islanders game

December 24, 2003
UNIONDALE, N.Y. (AP) -- Bad Santa isn't just a holiday movie.
A seemingly harmless Christmas promotion arranged by the New York Islanders turned ugly, and all because of the team's fierce rivalry with the New York Rangers.
And the Rangers were nowhere near when trouble broke out.
The promotion invited fans to dress up as Santa Claus for Tuesday night's game against the Philadelphia Flyers and be admitted to the Nassau Coliseum for free. What's more, they were permitted to parade across the ice between periods.
About 1,000 Santa Clauses showed up and as promised, they were invited on the ice after the first period.
This turned out to be not such a good idea. As the Santas milled around, two of them removed their red jackets to reveal jerseys of the rival Rangers -- not a good thing to do in the home of the Islanders.
Ignoring the holiday spirit, some of the other St. Nicks turned into Bad Santas, jumping the Ranger fans. The interlopers were knocked to the ice and had the shirts ripped off. Other Santas went sliding across the ice during the melee that took six minutes to settle down.
The entire parade took nearly nine minutes, and almost delayed the start of the second period. The players were unaware of what was happening on the ice until after the game, won by the Islanders 4-2.
Maybe it was the presence of the Flyers that set off the fans. Philadelphia, remember, is where Santa was once booed in a holiday parade.
When New York's Arron Asham learned about what had happened, he grinned.
What did he think about the episode?
``Awesome,'' Asham said.

[Kwitko]

Heh heh, we rule. On the minus side that night, Yashin got injured. :(
http://www.newsday.com/sports/hockey/islanders/ny-isles1225,0,4377357.story

But anyway, here are the pics from the Santa fracas:

http://www.kwitko.net/images/stun.large1.jpg
With a few hundred fans dressed as Santa Claus on the ice at Nassau Coliseum.

http://www.kwitko.net/images/stun.large2.jpg
Some Rangers fans removed their costumes.

http://www.kwitko.net/images/stun.large3.jpg
And paid the price.

Can you say :Pwned:

[Kwitko]

Since their 7 game skid, the Isles are 8-2-0-1, and in that span have beaten the Devils twice (and also managed a 1-0 OT loss), Atlanta, Philly, Toronto, and won in Washington for the first time since 1997. They're Yashin-less until probably April, but everyone has managed to step up their game. Adrian Aucoin now leads the league in +/- at +22.

Next game is their 4th meeting with Jersey in less than a month. I think the league finally got it right with scheduling. You've got to play your conference rivals a lot in a short span. That gets the rivalries brewing.

[Tiribulus]

Since their 7 game skid, the Isles are 8-2-0-1, and in that span have beaten the Devils twice (and also managed a 1-0 OT loss), Atlanta, Philly, Toronto, and won in Washington for the first time since 1997. They're Yashin-less until probably April, but everyone has managed to step up their game. Adrian Aucoin now leads the league in +/- at +22.

Next game is their 4th meeting with Jersey in less than a month. I think the league finally got it right with scheduling. You've got to play your conference rivals a lot in a short span. That gets the rivalries brewing.

HUH!!
Didin't I tell ya. It never pays to panic, not that I'm accusing of that necessarily. I can't say I was sure about the Isles future performance this season, but with so many games the standings can be turned upsidedown in coupla weeks in the NHL. Congrats bro. The wings continue to amaze me with their inability to beat teams that evryone else can. Despite their fine outings since their slump. I'm tellin ya, hockey is the most mental of professional sports. It's in their heads, assuming the physical talent is there. I think that's one of the reasons I love the game so much.
>>>--Tiribulus-> :bigggrin:
BTW, I'm not sure I like the new forum software/format.

[profdlp]

HUH!!
Didin't I tell ya. It never pays to panic...
You're obviously not a Caps fan. No one ever went broke betting against the Caps...

:banghead: :banghead: :banghead:

[Tiribulus]

You're obviously not a Caps fan. No one ever went broke betting against the Caps...

:banghead: :banghead: :banghead:

OK, I must say, with no malice intended, Washington has not displayed the same competence and determination that The NYI has. However I don't think the talent difference is that great. This lends creedance to my mental belief. I think the Caps continue to defeat themselves mentally while the Ilses have overcome that obstacle. Just lisening to interviews, pro hockey players are the most intelligent of major league sports stars. Nothing meant other than that observation. That being said I really believe that a lesser team can overcome their shortcomings by superior mental determination in hockey than any other sport.
>>>--Tiribulus->

[profdlp]

OK, I must say, with no malice intended, Washington has not displayed the same competence and determination that The NYI has. However I don't think the talent difference is that great. This lends creedance to my mental belief. I think the Caps continue to defeat themselves mentally while the Ilses have overcome that obstacle. Just lisening to interviews, pro hockey players are the most intelligent of major league sports stars. Nothing meant other than that observation. That being said I really believe that a lesser team can overcome their shortcomings by superior mental determination in hockey than any other sport.
>>>--Tiribulus->
I could write a book based on what you just wrote, and not disagree with a single word.

The Caps have had a snake-bit attitude since day one. They were royally screwed in the expansion draft before their maiden 74-75 season. This was at the beginning of the NHL's big expansion push. The rest of the owners felt so guilty that the rules were forever changed after their 8-67-5 debut.

Subsequent visions of paranoia were created by the NHL's changing of their playoff criteria in the 80's. The Caps were desperate for their first ever playoff appearance (not generally that hard to do in the NHL). I might have these backwards, but they are essentially true. One year, they finished in the middle of the pack in the NHL. The playoff requirements that year were that the top four in each division were in; the Caps finished fifth in a very strong division. The year after (or before - here's where I get confused) the NHL had a "Balanced Schedule" program where the top 16 teams were in. The Caps were 17th overall, (SOL) but 4th in their division.

Reverse the (arbitrary) rules and the Caps would have been in both times. As they were, no playoffs (again). In perspective this may not seem like much, but for a true-blue fan like me, it amounted to two Summers of teeth-gnashing.

I could go on (Playoff OT goal bouncing off a goalies neck; the Easter 7 OT series; blah diddity blah blah blah), but we do feel cursed.

We've become the Cubs/Red Sox of the NHL.

[DogSoldier]

Well, that was a good game to break that streak. Islanders are a good team when they are "on". They showed that last year. I'm hoping the Leafs won't get mired in a slump, usually happens around this time of the year...

[TBonZ]

SENS 1 - ISLES 0 :celebrate

[Tiribulus]

TBONZ!
I was wondering where you'd been. Another interesting season huh? As if there could be a boring NHL season.
>>>--Tiribulus-> :smiles:

[Kwitko]

SENS 1 - ISLES 0 :celebrate

Hell of a game, though. Both teams had some excellent chances, the goaltending was top notch, and I'm actually not upset that the Isles lost. 1-0 against a hot Sens team, in Ottawa, no Peca, no Yashin, Parrish lost in the 1st period, 4th game in the span of a week? It's a heartbreaking loss because the Isles played so well without 3 of their top players. That stupid broken stick in the corner... :hrm: Sure, would've been nice if that goal had come in OT so we could at least get a point out of it.

BTW, TBonZ, did you see Havlat's kick to Cairns' groin? That was messed up. He got suspended 2 games for it.

[TBonZ]

Heya Tirib! Glad to hear it is interesting, although I've been to two Sens games this year, I have only been able to watch one game on tv so far so I'm actually out of the loop. :shakehead My one and only New Years resolution? To watch more hockey, I think this is one resolution I'll be able to keep.

Hey Mr.K, I didn't see the game, last night was my New Years eve but I did catch the last 5 minutes on the radio. Havlat Kicked a groin? I'll be checking that out. :scratch:

Great to hear it was a good game and yes, like you said, your Isles are still rolling along well without the top 3. I did catch the interference call with 1 min left in the game, that sure didn't help their campaign.

Hey Prof, you're next. :nudge:

[Tiribulus]

My beloved Red Wings retain their rightful position at the top of the league with a 6/0 pummeling of the Predators tonight. :kneel:
>>>--Tiribulus-> :rolleyes:

[DogSoldier]

The Leafs beat up on the Pens 5-0 last night and will be tied with the Wings for top spot, soon as they beat those same Predators tonite. ;)

I wish I could watch the game, (I live in Ottawa, figure it out..) but will have to make do with Mojo Radio. This is my sole reason for moving to Bell ExpressVu in a couple of weeks.

[Tiribulus]

That was a good call, but will be short lived when the Wings retake the top spot tonight by defeating Boston :clap:
>>>--Tiribulus->

[DogSoldier]

I got lucky last night, and so did Sundin when he didn't get a major for throwing his broken stick over the boards. hehehehe

Should be a good matchup tonite, I predict a defensive low scoring affair, unless Detroit turns it on, teams like Detroit score in bunches and can be very overwhelming.

"The Bruins visit the Red Wings tonight in the first of two games between these teams this season and the Bruins’ lone visit of the season to Joe Louis Arena. The Bruins are 15-11-10-4 overall thus far this season with a 10-5-3-3 road record. The Red Wings are 26-12-4-1 thus far this season with a 17-3-1-0 home record. The Bruins are 1-1-0-1 this season vs. Central Division opponents and are 8-2-2-1 vs. Western Conference foes. The Red Wings are 2-2-0-0 this season vs. Northeast Division opponents and are 7-5-0-0 vs. Eastern Conference foes."

[Tiribulus]

OK, I spoke too soon :-[

[DogSoldier]

Sens vs Leafs tonite. AND I CAN ACTUALLY WATCH THIS ONE ON TV! This is gonna rock. Leafs will be playing a red hot team (10 game unbeaten streak, looking to tie a Sens record 11) and will be doing it with a much depleted roster. Belak, Kaberle, Belfour, Nolan, Reichel and Mogilny are out with injuries, and Sundin, Leafs leading point getter is suspended 1 game for the aforementioned stick toss incident.

[TBonZ]

Wow DogSoldier, I just turned the TV on with 30sec left in the first, 5 - 0 Sens. :Pwned:

BUT, if there is one thing I know, nothing is a sure thing, ESPECIALLY in hockey.

[TBonZ]

That first period basically sealed that game, Kidd should've had a few of those shots and others he just had no chance. Hard to say what happened really, although Sundin was suspended the Leafs were rolling right along even without the other guys who are on the shelf. Till we meet again, Jan 31. :nudge:

A nice win for the Isles over the Oilers and the Rangers were beat again tonight, congrats Mr.Kwitko. :cheers:

Tirib - Boston sure surprised me man, they also took their game tonight, was only Pittsburgh but still. Detroit will be right back to their dominating ways next game, no doubts about it here.

The Flyers are really suffering these days with having lost another one tonight. I'm surprised since they just signed Mike Comrie. :scratch: Oh well like I care, hope they crash and burn just the same.

[DogSoldier]

Yeah, for the first 2 minutes the Leafs played with some jump, and then the Horrible Realization, Kidd had developed a manic phobia against the puck! I don't know why Quinn didn't pull Kidd, looked like Kidd wanted that. Maybe it was one of those 'Just tryin to teach the boy something.."'s Watching this game, I felt the same way I did watching them lose to Philly in the playoffs.

Kudos to the Sens, they played a great game. Let's hope when they meet again, the Leafs can challenge them with a full roster.

[Kwitko]

A nice win for the Isles over the Oilers and the Rangers were beat again tonight, congrats Mr.Kwitko. :cheers:

Yeah, Justin Papineau had the game of his career. 2 PP goals, one being the game winner. By the way, Adrian Aucoin might be the most underrated defenseman in the league. He leads the NHL in +/- plays 25+ minutes a game, is top 10 in scoring for defensemen, has a wicked slapshot, yet consistently gets shut out of the All-Star game.

I missed the Sens-Leafs game, but I'm torn over whether I should be happy with the outcome, given the fact that the Sens pwn the Isles, and given the fact that the Darcy "Sissyboy" Tucker intentionally injured Peca. Nice winning streak the Sens have going. After a shaky start to the season, they're finally playing the kind of game I'm used to seeing them play. Hands down they are the deepest team in the league. Not many teams can roll 4 quality lines like they do.

It's always nice when the Ranjerks lose. :)

If the playoffs were to start today:
Toronto-Atlanta
Philly-Isles
Ottawa-Montreal
NJ-Boston

Interesting matchups. Frankly, I'd rather the Isles play Toronto than the Flyers.

[TBonZ]

Wow, that ended up being a great game. Isles really took it to the Sens for the first two but Ottawa finally woke up for the 3rd. Some of the penalties for both sides were just ridiculous towards the end of the 2nd period though. :grumble:

I'm sure both Teams are happy to walk away with a point, Ottawa for it's sloppy plays and defensive breakdowns in the first two and the Isles for surviving Ottawa's onslaught in the 3rd.

Till we meet again.

[Kwitko]

It seemed that any time there was contact there was a penalty. Horrible officiating. Both teams got some really stupid calls. I guess it's a point, in Ottawa, but come on, it seemed like the Isles were on the penalty kill the entire 3rd. I'm glad Chara got called on that dive when Blake barely touched him. Chara doesn't go down when 20 guys pile on him, you think little 5'8" Blake is going to take him down?

Until we meet again. :)

[Tiribulus]

I'm not getting notifications for this thread except like once every 7 or 8 posts :shakehead I'm thinkin there's nothing going on and I finally do get notified and there's a whole buncha posts I missed.
>>>--Tiribulus--> :-/

[DogSoldier]

Leafs play in Philly, and for once.. I can watch it! (My NHL Center Ice came in) This is the game to watch, Flyers are responsible for a 7-1 drubbing of the Leafs way back in november, it was right after this that the Leafs went on a 16 game unbeaten streak. Whatever happens tonite, it's sure to be interesting. ;)

[DogSoldier]

Flyers win 4-1. Belfour played horribly and was replaced by.. ugh, Kidd, the Leafs were tentative, sloppy. They didn't look at all like the dynamic confident team they were only a month ago. Leafs have another go against them tonite, I'm sure that Belfour will play and will be a stonewall. The team is still without injured D's, Klee, Belak and Kaberle. F's Nolan, Reichel and Mogilny. The Leafs have called up 3 players from St. Johns, D's Pierre Hedin, Ric Jackman and forward Clarke Wilm. They all played last night and they seem capable but are really only just holding the line.

"When you play Toronto, you don't expect an early lead," Esche [Flyers Goalie] said. "They're a dynamic team. It was just one of those nights for them."

"We stunk it up tonight," said Toronto defenceman Bryan McCabe, one of the Maple Leafs who publicly anticipated the home-and-home series. "But the best part is that we get back at them tomorrow."

[Alphy]

The Wings have been really falling short these last couple games, it's like they run out of gas come the 3rd period. Hopefully they will somehow get out of this rut.

P.S: Being from Detroit I'm a huge CBC fan, (we're very lucky to get it, I can't stand Fox Sports or EPSN). Over the years I've developed a fondness for the Leafs and wish you the best, you guys deserve a Cup already!

[DogSoldier]

Hey Thanks Alphy! Leafs played a great energy game last night but came up against a red hot Kevin Weekes. He played about the best I've seen any goalie play all year. Leafs might lose the division lead if Ottawa beats Dallas tonite (Or the Coyotes tomorrow nite) Leafs don't play again til friday nite against the Thrashers. I'll be watching Ottawa tonite if only to keep tabs, The Sens are a great skilled team but are really kinda bland in terms character and personality.

[profdlp]

This long-suffering Craps fan is curious what the rest of the league thinks of the Jagr "trade". ("Trade" because it was more of a partial salary-dump than anything else.)

Looks like Bondra, Kolzig & Gonchar are on the market, too. In your opinion, do these "let's pile up the draft picks" kind of things work in the NHL? Seems to me that the NHL draft is like MLB's - more of a crapshoot than a science.

[TBonZ]

Hey prof, if you're talking to the Caps GM anytime soon, plz put a good word in for Ottawa's bid for Bondra. :vimp:

Ottawa vs Toronto, after the last 7-1 drubbing, this game is the equivalent to a Stanley Cup final for me. GO SENS!!!!!

[Kwitko]

This long-suffering Craps fan is curious what the rest of the league thinks of the Jagr "trade". ("Trade" because it was more of a partial salary-dump than anything else.)

Looks like Bondra, Kolzig & Gonchar are on the market, too. In your opinion, do these "let's pile up the draft picks" kind of things work in the NHL? Seems to me that the NHL draft is like MLB's - more of a crapshoot than a science.

Don't feel too bad about Jagr. He's spending the rest of his days making tons of money down at the New York Rangers Home for Aging Superstars. See, there's Messier, and sitting here with his head wrapped is Eric Lindros.

I think it's good that the Caps are having a fire sale. It's a realization that following the Rangers "Buy the Cup" system isn't working. It's easier to suffer through a team's growing pains with the young players than it is to watch your team spend millions and get nowhere.

Any sport has its share of gambles when it comes to draft picks. There have been some top picks that have been busts (Alexander Daigle, 1st overall in 1993) and late rounders that have been amazing (Nikolai Khabibulin went in the 9th round).

If the GM is good (i.e. not Mike Milbury) then you have a chance at fielding a good team with good prospects. The bottom line is that until the guy gets on the ice and plays, you have no idea how good he really is.

[profdlp]

I have no pity for Jagr. Anyone who makes that kind of money can hire someone besides me to feel sorry for them.

As far as suffering through the rebuilding process, I agree that it is much easier to live with the young guys. My baseball team is the Indians who have been doing just that. They play with exuberance, you'll see that occasional flash of brilliance, and it's nice to know that their best days are ahead of them. It looks like the Rangers have re-assembled the 1995 All-Star team. Too bad it's 2004. :p

[Kwitko]

It looks like the Rangers have re-assembled the 1995 All-Star team. Too bad it's 2004. :p

;D

[Tiribulus]

That IS pretty funny ;)
>>>--Tiribulus-> :)

[TBonZ]

LOL! ;D

Well, give credit where it's due, Belfour played a magnificent game and bailed the Leafs out in the first period, then Toronto played a tight game and didn't give too much and of course when they did, the eagle was there for them. Sens were :Pwned:

[Tiribulus]

Man, the standings have been shaken, not stirred lately.
>>>--Tiribulus-> :bigggrin:

[TBonZ]

Hey prof, if you're talking to the Caps GM anytime soon, plz put a good word in for Ottawa's bid for Bondra. :vimp:

In case you haven't already heard.... http://www.nhl.com/onthefly/news/2004/02/203974.html

WOW, I'm still stunned that this actually did happen, I see great things coming with this signing. :D

[Kwitko]

Wow, that makes Ottawa just that much stronger. Well, it's officially rebuilding time in Washington. In other news, the Rangers signed Bobby Orr, Gordie Howe, and Bobby Hull each to 5 year, $50 million deals.

[Tiribulus]

Will definitely lend an offensive boost to the Sens. Both of Washington's dedicated fans will be in mourning fer sher :bawling:
>>>--Tiribulus-> :D

[DogSoldier]

He's a great aquisition. Maguire (Sportsnet) said something I thought made sense, a lot of Sens are eastern european and have a great deal of respect for Bondra. This should have some effect on the chemistry of the team.

Now, I hope Ferguson gets in on the fire sale and get's Gonchar. He'd look a lot better partnered with Klee than (Given' it up) Berg.

[profdlp]

Sad to see Bondra go, I just hope they get some decent talent in return. I'm going to have to post a copy of their roster next to the TV so I know who I'm rooting for. :(

[profdlp]

Rumor of blockbuster trade for Toronto (http://www.foxsports.com/content/view?contentId=2169918)

Hmmm.... :scratch:

[DogSoldier]

Well, It's official.. the Leafs are on a tear! Too bad it's in the wrong direction. The loss tonite is their third in a row, people are constantly talking about possible trades, especially for Gonchar. I think he'd make a solid partner with Klee, especially on the power play but I don't think this is "the answer". That is, don't make a trade just for the sake of making a trade. If they are gonna do it, than damn..get it done! Fans, commentators, coaches, don't seem to understand that there is a sword of damocles hanging over the Leafs. And I believe this is at the root of their disorganized play of late. It's stressful and well nigh impossible to do your best (with the possibility of having to move to a new team) with that in your peripheral vision.

I believe once we get past the trade deadline, trade or no trade.. the Leafs will begin to cohese again. I'm more positive about their playoff chances this year then at anytime in the past. They'll go far, they have too much heart and depth of talent not too.

I got my Leafs Nation fan package in today, hehehe.. Living in Ottawa, of course people took offense to me flashing my new member card and t-shirt in their faces. LOL

[profdlp]

If I recall correctly, Klee was paired with Gonchar when they were both in Washington. I think not re-signing Klee was a penny-wise, pound-foolish mistake for the Caps. :rant:

[profdlp]

The latest in the Caps clearance sale:

Lang to Red Wings for peanuts. (http://www.foxsports.com/content/view?contentId=2182190)

[McBain]

Whoooooo Doggies. The Wings are just plain sick. We have hatcher comin back soon too ;-)

[Tiribulus]

WOOOHOOO!!!! Ya beat me to it. I was out on a call at work and didn't hear til I got back to my desk!!! Should be a fine addition to our struggling roster :wink:
>>>--Tiribulus-> :clap:

[DogSoldier]

Wishfull thinking?

Interesting development on the Leafs web site. It's not linked on any of the main pages, but if you imput Sergei Gonchars name in the bio section, you get this..

http://www.torontomapleleafs.com/bio.ml?playerName=%20Sergei%20Gonchar

update// TSN also lists Gonchar as a Leaf. I predict a big media circus in Leaf land tomorrow afternoon..

http://www.tsn.ca/nhl/teams/player_bio.asp?player_id=788&hubName=TOR

[profdlp]

I watched the Caps/Panthers game last night. Gonchar was out with "the flu".

They spent about 15 minutes of the 30-minute postgame denying that a trade had happened. The Caps GM denied it, too. Something about his tone of voice made me think it was at least a 99% done deal.

OTOH, web sites often prepare this stuff in advance based on rumors, just so they'll be ready if the trigger is pulled on the deal.

[Tiribulus]

One of the Candien sites I was reading earlier (cannot remember where) sounding pretty Sure Gonchar was going to Toronto as well. Wish I could remember where, but they seemed to think it was over save the announcement.
>>>--Tiribulus--> :bigggrin:

[Kwitko]

I've also read rumors that Peter Forsberg has signed to play in Sweden next year.

[Tiribulus]

Haven't heard that one, but it would be good for every NHL team except Colorado :rolleyes: Well. Toronto publicly undressed NJ in that first period fer sher. BTW, TD, glad to see the Isles hanging on to that 8th spot, but I REALLY need need to see them beat the Ranger$ some day dude :scratch:
>>>--Tiribulus-> :bigggrin:

[profdlp]

I've also read rumors that Peter Forsberg has signed to play in Sweden next year.
That's what FoxSports (http://www.foxsports.com/content/view?contentId=2184830) is saying. :sweflag:

[DogSoldier]

I heard the same on HNIC tonite, here's a kicker.. Kariya and Selanne will be going with him. All playing for Modo.

[Tiribulus]

Yeah I just saw it on the Denver Post's site too.

[profdlp]

Close to pulling the trigger on Gonchar (http://www.foxsports.com/content/view?contentId=2195024)...

[Kwitko]

Gonchar to where? Toronto?

Rumors abound that Alexei Kovalev traded to the Habs from the Rangers.

My Isles are in the market for a big defenseman. Perhaps Pronger or Brendan Witt?

[TBonZ]

From what I have read, Boston is the frontrunner for Gonchar, Boston seems to more than willing to part with a first round draft pick and a prospect which could be the clincher.

[TBonZ]

It's official, Boston won the Gonchar sweepstakes. Better Boston than Toronto I say. :D

[Tiribulus]

Gonchar has been moved to the Bruins. (http://www.nhl.com/intheslot/read/deadline2004/index.html)

[DogSoldier]

OMG...Leetch,, How old is he?! 52?!

[Kwitko]

Leetch is now officially a Maple Leaf.

<:rant:>
Everyone is getting better with good trades except for the Islanders. What the hell is Mad Mike waiting for???
</:rant:>

[Tiribulus]

Yeah I noticed the Isles haven't made a single move yet.

[profdlp]

Caps still cleaning house. (http://www.foxsports.com/content/view?contentId=2199638)

Keeping track of all these player moves has been a lot harder than keeping track of victories this year. :-/

[Kwitko]

Different team, same result. Leetch joins the Leafs and helps to set up 2 PP goals. :grumble: :banghead:

[DogSoldier]

:)

[Tiribulus]

Gonchar made a splash with Boston last night too.

[DogSoldier]

Anyone see the Sens/Flyers tilt? Wow.... I mean..really, just wow. I haven't seen that many fights since the neighbours moved out. It went for like 6 puck drops in the final minute 30. Philly was winning 6-2 and Sens didn't like that.. Brashear and Rob Ray started it, Ray got beat, then Simpson charged Brashear, AND the melee ensued! Lalime paired up with Esche, Neil beat Pitkanen, Chara ragdolled Timander, Spezza lost to I think Sharp, Recchi gets a decision against Smolinski, Fisher beat on Handzus and that was maybe half the fights.. at the end of it, both benches had 5-6 players left to play.

[TBonZ]

Oh yeah, I saw it. ;D

Was about time someone else other than Fisher showed some heart, I think that melee was the best thing that could've happened to Ottawa, I don't mind at all that we gave away 2 points.

[DogSoldier]

Yeah Tbonz, those things have a way of strengthening a team. New NHL record for penalty minutes. 419 beats the old record of 406. Good article about this game here:

http://www.sportsnet.ca/hockey/article.jsp?content=20040305_221105_4904

[Tiribulus]

Washington trades away all their talent and then defeats one of the best teams in the league This was no fluke either, they controlled play for most of the game :Pwned: I love Hockey, gimme six period games.
>>>--Tiribulus-> :clap:

[Tiribulus]

How bout Tampa Bay guys? Is that a team on a mission or what? :wow2: We play them tomorrow. Should be good.
>>>--Tiribulus-> :D

[profdlp]

Washington trades away all their talent and then defeats one of the best teams in the league...
It was nice of the Senators to soften them up for us. :aol:

We play Ottawa Monday night, maybe they'll still be a little sore, too... :mouldy:

:bigggrin:

[Kwitko]

Did anyone see what Bertuzzi did to Steve Moore last night? I just read about it and it's absolutely appalling. If you want revenge, you fight a guy face to face. You don't cheap shot him from behind and take him down to the ice face first. Bertuzzi is suspended indefinitely without pay.

[maxanon]

I couldn't believe it either. People lose perspective sometimes and its inexcusable. I didn't read about the no pay. Is the team doing that, or the league fining him enough?

People like that should be kicked from the league. A penalty like that should have a mandatory 1 month term in the minors (with minor league pay). That would be a sobering lesson.

[TBonZ]

DIdn't see it but read about it. It reminds me of the McSorley stick swinging incident with Brashear a few years back. That was nothing but cheap.. :grumble:

[DogSoldier]

I saw the replay this morning, it was definately a cheap shot. Naslund and Bertuzzi are pretty tight. Bertuzzi obviously wanted to fight Moore - payback for the concussion he served on Naslund a couple weeks back - but Moore didn't want to fight. When he suckered him, 9 times out of 10, those hits serve to get the other guys attention, and draw him into a fight. Unfortunately, big Todd hit him in the right place (Or wrong place, depending on who you cheer for). I don't believe that Bertuzzi meant to injure Moore, at least that way.

I hope Moore is ok.

[profdlp]

I just saw the replay on the news. Gruesome... :sawed: :eek:

[maxanon]

I don't think Bertuzzi meant to hurt him that bad, but still it wasn't a sane response to the hit. Naslund had his head down, and if anyone has ever played some hockey (in a competitive arena) knows that looking at your skates will shortly have you looking at the rafters.

Payback is alright, but a sucker punch is a cowards play. Check him hard in the corners, badger him until he breaks. Bertuzzi should only be allowed to come back when Moore comes back.

It was an accident, but you don't want players to be scared to go on the ice when there's a target on you. It costs the league too much.

However, I think the lock-out will be long enough to allow Moore to start "next" season.

[DogSoldier]

Just saw Bertuzzi's press conference. You can tell the guy was hurting - and even tho he deserves whatever's coming - I felt truely sorry for the man.

[DogSoldier]

I think this illustrates Trevor Kidds goal tending ability.... perfectly!

http://gallery.cybertarp.com/albums/userpics/12749/kidd.gif

[Tiribulus]

You're a pretty funny dude sometimes man ;D :cheers:
>>>--Tiribulus-> :bigggrin:

[DogSoldier]

:cheers: hehe

[Kwitko]

Nice work, DogSoldier. Can you do one that personifies the Islanders knack for the late-season slump? :)

[DogSoldier]

I didn't photoshop that, someone sent it to me, along with a great Leaf joke (If your a Sens fan.) I get a lot of those here in Ottawa, some of them are even funny.. like that pic.

[profdlp]

...someone sent it to me, along with a great Leaf joke...So are you going to tell us the joke? This poor old Caps fan could use a laugh. :vimp:

[TBonZ]

Man, it's hard to be a Sens fan through this last road trip. Turnovers and the pk unit have been brutal. Ottawa played Minnesota tonight, the Wild have only had 2 pp goals in their last 52 attempts but score 2 tonight. The Wild average 1 goal a game but score 5 on the Sens. :shakehead

Mr.K - Nice win tonight over the Lightning. :cheers:

[Kwitko]

Hey, Terry, every team has an off night. Just as long as that off night doesn't come in the deciding game of a 7-game series. :)

Yeah, good win against a hot team, on the road. Of all the teams the Islanders could face in the playoffs, I really think I'd like Tampa Bay to be the one. Granted, we've played well this season against Toronto, Philly, and the Sens, but we've had very good success against Khabibulin and TB.

[Tiribulus]

Speaking of off nights, the Wings got manhandled by the Flames last night too. Have owned them all year and they really took it to us :wow2:
>>>--Tiribulus-> :D

[Kwitko]

The Isles have some good pwnage going against the Lightning. It looks like that's going to be the first round matchup, provided the 'Ning stay atop the standings.

[Tiribulus]

What the hell, The Sens with a great comeback in the third to apparently keep the Lightning where we need em and they allow Tampa Bay to tie the game with the extra attacker @ 19:41 :werr:
>>>--Tiribulus->

[profdlp]

The schedule I printed out last October says that it will be Caps-Pens Sunday afternoon on ESPN in the season finale.

Make sure you tune in to watch "The #1 Draft Pick Cup" finals. :rolleyes:

[shwaip]

go PENS :D

man they sucked this season.

[profdlp]

go PENS...
Sounds good to me. :vimp: A #1 pick wouldn't hurt. :cheers:

(Unless the Caps pick another Greg Joly...)

[shwaip]

when I said go pens...I was rooting them on to a loss so they could get the #1 pick :p :bawling:

[maxanon]

Its not for sure since there is a lottery. Ahh, the Nordiques really exploited that loophole. Alas, Colorado reaped the benefits.

[profdlp]

Its not for sure since there is a lottery...
Just when it seemed that things couldn't get worse, you tell me that... :werr:

It's been that kind of year. :rolleyes:

[Tiribulus]

My beloved Red Wings have sealed the west :Rocker:
>>>--Tiribulus-> :bigggrin:

[Tiribulus]

And the League :celebrate
>>>--Tiribulus-> :thumbsup:

[Kwitko]

The Islanders are up 6-1 on the Hurricanes, and barring a total collapse, will have clinched the 8th seed in the East. :rockon: w00t! I'm going to get drunk. Later!

[Tiribulus]

Congrats chief, though I'm glad to see you're waiting til later as they can still blow it by which I mean the Wings have also given up large third period leads this year. Most notably to Nashville. However it IS pretty safe to believe the Isles will pull this one off. Another playoff run around the corner :cheers:
>>>--Tiribulus-> :bigggrin: