The OFFICIAL 2008-09 NHL Playoffs Thread

[Suburban Rhythm]

I really like Edzo, and think he's one of the best color guys out there. As you know he use to be the coach of the Pens (tic), and Suburban can correct me if I am wrong on the next part, but his exit was not exactly amicable. He was their coach right before and after the lockout and had little or no talent (besides Crosby and MAF) to work with.

The team signed Recchi who turned into a locker room cancer, demanding certain things from the coaches and he eventually was one of the main reasons Edzo was canned. Even when asked about Recchi today Edzo will refuse to comment saying that "he has nothing nice to say about man." I'm not sure if he holds the Pens responsible at all for it.

Correct on both counts-- Crosby's rookie year he finished the year with Andy Hilbert and Colby Armstrong as his wingers. He had Malone (his rookie year as well) and a good player in Aleksey Morozov..and that's it. They gutted the team in 2002 and were playing with guys like Dan Focht and Landon Wilson, or after the lockout, 40 games of Ziggy Palffy before he got out of Dodge.

Recchi was pretty vocal of his unhappiness. To a lesser extent, Leclair did the same. Rumor was some of the vets looked down upon the way some of the youngsters (Crosby leading that pack) wanted to work hard, extra practices, etc, that the vets felt they could do without. Pretty strong rumors of Crosby and Recchi butting heads.


You only have to suit up for one game in the playoffs to get your name on the cup, right? Or does it have to be one game in the finals? (Pretty sure its the former, but they say that memory is the first thing to go.)

I believe it is 1 game in the finals, or 40+ games during the regular season. So Datsyuk would be safe...but so is Eric Godard :cool:

[Suburban Rhythm]

Well, that was fun. Pittsburgh is less ready to win the SC than Chicago was. They have no leadership.

I think the Pens are very good, but I think a team like the Blackhawks are closer than Pittsburgh because they have a leader like Toews.

Anyway, I almost hope the Pens win one game at home, so this series can be more exciting and help the NHL.

Mark Messier disagrees with you, but what's he know?

2009 Stanley Cup Playoffs Blog - Sports - Penguins keep positive attitude into Game 3 (http://www.cbc.ca/sports/hockey/hnicplayoff/2009/06/penguins_keep_positive_attitud.html)


Pittsburgh centre Sidney Crosby joins Zdeno Chara of Boston and Calgary’s Jarome Iginla as finalists for the Mark Messier NHL Leadership award.
Messier was solely responsible for choosing those three, although he accepted input from league officials, team personnel and fans.
He said Crosby, like the other two, met a number of criteria pertaining to success on and off the ice to earn his place as a finalist, and cited Crosby’s work while “having the weight of the NHL on his shoulders and conducting himself [well] as a young player, much like Wayne Gretzky did when he came into the league.”
Messier also said that parallels that have been between the 1984 Edmonton Oilers and 2009 Penguins are not unreasonable, but that the Penguins face a formidable challenge in trying to get back into the series.
“Execution gets to be the primary factor in the final,” he said. “They had some fundamental breakdowns in the second game that, at this time of year, are very hard to recover from, especially against a team like Detroit, who just does not give up anything defensively.
“If they’re going to beat Detroit, they’re going to have to execute better than they did in the first two games because Detroit does not give up anything defensively. And when [the Penguins] are getting chances, Osgood is playing amazing again.”

[Pumpy Tudors]

SERIOUSLY, DOC AND EDZO, DON'T YOU AGREE THAT THE PENGUINS ARE NOT IN TROUBLE YET????????? DOC? EDZO? WHY AREN'T YOU GUYS TALKING TO ME?

[Dr. Sak]

So SR you sold your tickets for tonight?

[Dr. Sak]

HAHA they just made fun of Crosby still living with Lemieux.

[Pumpy Tudors]

Max Talbot is one of my favorite players. Good to see him start this game well.

[henry296]

Every bounce that creates a scoring chance the Wings bury it.

[Suburban Rhythm]

So SR you sold your tickets for tonight?

Yeah, i got $250 a piece. Plus, I've been bad luck this playoff run so far, 0-2, and they don't need my help.

I'm holding out for game 6, when they'll be up 3-2 :D

Insanely bad officiating all around the first 12 mins or so.

How do you miss 6 guys on the ice for that long?

The Wings PP when Filppula just randomly runs into Craig Adams when there is no one else within 20 feet of them, and the puck is 30 feet away. If the reasoning has been the D skating backwards has as much right to the ice as the puck pursuer on a dump in, WHAT THE FUCK was that!?

Call on Orpik was pretty poor, Gonchar is pinning I think Zetterberg to the ice right next to them, and that's nothing...Orpik bumps Cleary who happens to be off balance, it's a call.
But then they make it up by calling Cleary for holding later for putting his hand on Eaton on a dump in. While I agree that should be called, it hasn't been for 2 games, or the prior 15 mins of the 1st period, but that one time is a penalty.

[Suburban Rhythm]

Every bounce that creates a scoring chance the Wings bury it.

Crosby was God awful on Zetterbergs goal. He watch the puck come around the boards, picked up by Leino, who takes it to the net...Crosby still standing in the same spot behind the net.

[Tekneek]

Officiating has been poor all series.

[Matthean]

With the Wings out shooting the Pens around 2-1, if the Pens pull this off, it's a huge steal.

[henry296]

Fleury best period of the series by far.

[Suburban Rhythm]

Officiating has been poor all series.

But consistently poor, which is a good thing. Or at least better than inconsistently poor.

Consistently good > consistently poor > inconsistently good > inconsistently poor

I think that's right

[henry296]

But consistently poor, which is a good thing. Or at least better than inconsistently poor.

Consistently good > consistently poor > inconsistently good > inconsistently poor

I think that's right

I think so, but what is inconsistently good? All penalties called are good, but miss other ones?

[Suburban Rhythm]

I think so, but what is inconsistently good? All penalties called are good, but miss other ones?

I guess inconsistently good would be most calls made correctly, but then 3rd period/OT whistles are put away.

That's better than inconsistently applied calls through all 3 (or more) periods. I think.

[Matthean]

Looks like the Wings decided to take this period off. Can't be too encouraging for the Pens knowing their goalie is going to have to save them though.

[Suburban Rhythm]

So, after 2 games and 2 1/2 periods, they make the interference call. Again, to me, that is a penalty, that's what they wanted to eliminate after the lockout. But, now guys have been playing 170 minutes one way, and now it's different.

Also, is VS really showing 30 mins of whatever this shit is, before going to the postgame show?

[Chief Rum]

;)

Heh...I actually thought it, too, but then I'm a Ducks fan, so people just dismiss my opinions on them. ;)

[Maple Leafs]

You only have to suit up for one game in the playoffs to get your name on the cup, right? Or does it have to be one game in the finals? (Pretty sure its the former, but they say that memory is the first thing to go.)
One game in the finals or a certain number in the regular season (40?)

But they can make exceptions if the team asks for one.

[Suburban Rhythm]

Per TSN, no Datsyuk tonight

[Dr. Sak]

Wow Kuntiz better watch, he might get whiplash from whipping his head back like that...the pens training staff might want to check his reaction time...he might have a concussion.

[henry296]

A bad night for heavy rain in Charlotte... rain fade on the dish so no Versus right now. I get the NBA game however... just great.

[Matthean]

Monster 2nd period for the Pens should all, but seal this up. Back-to-back penalties and the Pens still score and get 3 total in the 2nd. So far the team with the most shots may end up 0-4. It's like the goalies feed off the home crowd.

[Suburban Rhythm]

So wasn't Draper dressing to give the Wings another option to match up as a defensive center vs Crosby/Malkin? 5 mins thru 2 periods.

[Suburban Rhythm]

Non-playoffs, but haven't seen mention of the Avs move yet.

NHL 4th liner - turned minor league coach - turned NHL coach: Joe Sacco

This has worked out pretty well for Pittsburgh so far.

[samifan24]

Here's a good WSJ article about Darren Helm and other "postseason hell raisers." (http://online.wsj.com/article/SB124389841307774343.html)

[Draft Dodger]

Non-playoffs, but haven't seen mention of the Avs move yet.

NHL 4th liner - turned minor league coach - turned NHL coach: Joe Sacco

This has worked out pretty well for Pittsburgh so far.

bleh. joke move by a joke franchise

[bbor]

Here's a good WSJ article about Darren Helm and other "postseason hell raisers." (http://online.wsj.com/article/SB124389841307774343.html)

Good article...although it bothered me to no end that they called him Mr.Helm through the whole article.

[Chief Rum]

Non-playoffs, but haven't seen mention of the Avs move yet.

NHL 4th liner - turned minor league coach - turned NHL coach: Joe Sacco

This has worked out pretty well for Pittsburgh so far.

Wow, Joe Sacco! There's a name from the past. How did I miss that?

Don't know enough about his coaching acumen to say if it's a good move for the Avs, but for Sacco, I'll give the former longtime Duck a thumbs up and a good luck.

[Maple Leafs]

There is a little known league bylaw that every NHL coach must be a former Maple Leafs fourth liner.

[Suburban Rhythm]

What was there, like 4 whistles in the 1st period?

[Dr. Sak]

What was there, like 4 whistles in the 1st period?

Yeah that was some fun hockey to watch.

[Schmidty]

What a bunch of bullshit.

Star Cam?? Yet they only are following Crosby and Malkin. Damn, I haven't been a big believer in the "Pens Must Win for the NHL" conspiracy theory, but I'll be damned if shit like that doesn't fuel the fire. Shit, I guess that even though Zetterberg and Datsyuk are as good or better overall than Crosby and Malkin, they aren't "stars". That rubs me the wrong way.

[Schmidty]

Woohoo!! 3-0!!

[DeToxRox]

Detroit's PP needed a spark. Thanks Geno/Kunitz.

[DataKing]

Outstanding game all-around so far by the Wings, and it looks like some of the Pens are starting to lose their cool. I just hope the refs don't let things get out of hand late. Let's hope the NHL stays true to its "no message sending" stance.

Dats may not be skating 100%, but damn it's still good to have that guy back...his stick work is amazing sometimes.

[Dr. Sak]

Pens are gooning it up!

[DeToxRox]

If Detroit couldn't have been here, I would've loved to see Anaheim vs Pittsburgh. I would love to see Crosby, Malkin and Kunitz try and act like tough guys vs them.

Oh wait, that wouldn't happen.

[Dr. Sak]

Let's hope the NHL stays true to its "no message sending" stance.


If you're a superstar (in their eyes) this rule does not apply to you.

[Dr. Sak]

Detroit fans...you are doing us Philly fans proud with the "Crosby Sucks" chant!

[Suburban Rhythm]

What a bunch of bullshit.

Star Cam?? Yet they only are following Crosby and Malkin. Damn, I haven't been a big believer in the "Pens Must Win for the NHL" conspiracy theory, but I'll be damned if shit like that doesn't fuel the fire. Shit, I guess that even though Zetterberg and Datsyuk are as good or better overall than Crosby and Malkin, they aren't "stars". That rubs me the wrong way.

Yeah, Bettman getting all those fake PPs to Pittsburgh is really hard to swallow.

Not saying these aren't valid penalty calls on Pittsburgh, but the conspiracy bullshit? Really? Why are the Pens down 5-0 then? The refs revolting against that tyrant Bettman?

[Suburban Rhythm]

Dola

I work with a "Fleury stinks...they'll never win anything with him!" guy. I can hardly wait for Monday morning.

[Suburban Rhythm]

Going out on a limb....Penguins 7-6 in OT.

[DataKing]

Going out on a limb....Penguins 7-6 in OT.

That's not a limb...it's a really long twig.

[Schmidty]

Yeah, Bettman getting all those fake PPs to Pittsburgh is really hard to swallow.

Not saying these aren't valid penalty calls on Pittsburgh, but the conspiracy bullshit? Really? Why are the Pens down 5-0 then? The refs revolting against that tyrant Bettman?

You seem angry.

[Schmidty]

Dola.

And the more I see Crosby, the more I think he should have an 'A' on his jersey, not a 'C'.

[Dr. Sak]

Going out on a limb....Penguins 7-6 in OT.

Maybe if it were the Flyers up 5-0 I'd agree with this :)

[Greyroofoo]

so this is a playoff game
with the best teams in the NHL


right?

[Dr. Sak]

Have you watched any of the other 4 games?

[Suburban Rhythm]

Dola.

And the more I see Crosby, the more I think he should have an 'A' on his jersey, not a 'C'.

Posted this earlier in the thread.

Mark Messier disagrees with you, but what's he know?

2009 Stanley Cup Playoffs Blog - Sports - Penguins keep positive attitude into Game 3 (http://www.cbc.ca/sports/hockey/hnicplayoff/2009/06/penguins_keep_positive_attitud.html)

[Schmidty]

Edit:

Nevermind. :)

[Tekneek]

Detroit should not be allowed to stir up anything either. Misconducts for them as well, if you really want to be fair.

[Schmidty]

Detroit should not be allowed to stir up anything either. Misconducts for them as well, if you really want to be fair.

I haven't seen anything that Detroit has instigated. Not one. I might have missed something while I was getting some chips, but that would only account for like 30 seconds.

[Schmidty]

Reading through my posts, I am the quintessential asshole fan. I would hate me if I were from the other side. :)

[samifan24]

Good article...although it bothered me to no end that they called him Mr.Helm through the whole article.

The Wall Street Journal always does that in its sports articles.

[JonInMiddleGA]

The Wall Street Journal always does that in its sports articles.

Yep.

Still disconcerting as a regular sports reader though.

[Suburban Rhythm]

Would not be shocked at all to see this go 7. But Fleury has to be able to win at the Joe for game 7 to mean anything (for Pittsburgh anyway).

[bbor]

The Wall Street Journal always does that in its sports articles.

Why?

[samifan24]

Why?

Tradition, I guess. They always refer to people as Mr. or Ms. in their business articles so I guess the practice carried over to their sports articles. It doesn't really bother me.

[Honolulu_Blue]

What a bunch of bullshit.

Star Cam?? Yet they only are following Crosby and Malkin. Damn, I haven't been a big believer in the "Pens Must Win for the NHL" conspiracy theory, but I'll be damned if shit like that doesn't fuel the fire. Shit, I guess that even though Zetterberg and Datsyuk are as good or better overall than Crosby and Malkin, they aren't "stars". That rubs me the wrong way.

I've never understood this whole conspiracy theory angle. There's no way there is any type of conspiracy going on. How would it work exactly? How many different people would have to be involved? Would anything the NHL could possibly gain from the successful execution of such a conspiracy ever be worth all the potential harm the league would suffer if such a conspiracy would ever be exposed?

There were some Wings fan in an email list I am on commenting on how "sad" and "unhappy" Gary Bettman looked at the game last night when the NBC cameras showed him in the stands. What is he supposed to be waving one of those pom-poms? He's the commissioner of the league, not a fan. I am no Bettman apologist, but to think there is some conspiracy going on or he's anti-Red Wings or Pro-Penguins or anti-Zetterberg or pro-Crosby is just silly nonsense.

As for the iso-cams or star cams or whatever they are, there are folks in the NHL who are responsible for marketing and selling the sport. Obviously, somebody somewhere decided that focusing on Malkin and Crosby is the best way to do that. One could disagree about that, but it's hardly something to get all bent out of shape around.

Detroit fans have always been very prickily about lack of respect and what not.

As for Game 5. The Penguins were playing pretty well until that first goal, which was very weak on Fluery's part. After that, the Wings seemed to find some confidence and took over in the second. I don't think any of the next 4 goals could really be blamed on Fleury.

If it's one thing this series has taught us is not to get too high or too low after a victory or loss. I could easily see this thing going to 7 and then it's a toss-up.

[Schmidty]

You're way too much of a kiss-up, HB. :)

[Schmidty]

Why do teams continue to think that they can try to push the Wings with dirty plays? Nothing ever, ever comes of it, other than the idiotic opposition making asses of themselves. Take the slash by Talbot on Datsyuk. Just stupid crap.

Talbot slash brings Clarke to mind - Sportsnet.ca (http://www.sportsnet.ca/hockey/2009/06/07/talbot_slash/)

[Honolulu_Blue]

You're way too much of a kiss-up, HB. :)

I am the Ying to balance out your Yang. :)

[Dr. Sak]

Why do teams continue to think that they can try to push the Wings with dirty plays? Nothing ever, ever comes of it, other than the idiotic opposition making asses of themselves. Take the slash by Talbot on Datsyuk. Just stupid crap.

Talbot slash brings Clarke to mind - Sportsnet.ca (http://www.sportsnet.ca/hockey/2009/06/07/talbot_slash/)

You must be talking about another team because the Pens never give out cheap hits.

[Suburban Rhythm]

I've never understood this whole conspiracy theory angle. There's no way there is any type of conspiracy going on. How would it work exactly? How many different people would have to be involved? Would anything the NHL could possibly gain from the successful execution of such a conspiracy ever be worth all the potential harm the league would suffer if such a conspiracy would ever be exposed?

There were some Wings fan in an email list I am on commenting on how "sad" and "unhappy" Gary Bettman looked at the game last night when the NBC cameras showed him in the stands. What is he supposed to be waving one of those pom-poms? He's the commissioner of the league, not a fan. I am no Bettman apologist, but to think there is some conspiracy going on or he's anti-Red Wings or Pro-Penguins or anti-Zetterberg or pro-Crosby is just silly nonsense.

As for the iso-cams or star cams or whatever they are, there are folks in the NHL who are responsible for marketing and selling the sport. Obviously, somebody somewhere decided that focusing on Malkin and Crosby is the best way to do that. One could disagree about that, but it's hardly something to get all bent out of shape around.

Detroit fans have always been very prickily about lack of respect and what not.

As for Game 5. The Penguins were playing pretty well until that first goal, which was very weak on Fluery's part. After that, the Wings seemed to find some confidence and took over in the second. I don't think any of the next 4 goals could really be blamed on Fleury.

If it's one thing this series has taught us is not to get too high or too low after a victory or loss. I could easily see this thing going to 7 and then it's a toss-up.

I love people who push the conspiracy agenda, but can not explain how the Pens haven't won a cup, or while they get away with too many men on the ice, the PP in the series were actually in favor of Detroit heading into last night, 10 to 9.

As for the bolded part, agree 100%. Based on what we heard after games 1 and 2, Pittsburgh had no shot. And after games 3 and 4, Detroit was on the ropes. Momentum doesn't extend beyond the next shift

Why do teams continue to think that they can try to push the Wings with dirty plays? Nothing ever, ever comes of it, other than the idiotic opposition making asses of themselves. Take the slash by Talbot on Datsyuk. Just stupid crap.

Talbot slash brings Clarke to mind - Sportsnet.ca (http://www.sportsnet.ca/hockey/2009/06/07/talbot_slash/)

Maybe it's my black and gold glasses, but equal to Clarke's? Really? Did Talbot even have two hands on his stick?

I look forward to this guy's follow up article comparing Draper's butt-end to Staal's face to either Bertuzzi or McSorley.

I really don't think Talbot was trying to push Detroit into anything- game was over at that point. He was frustrated.

[Suburban Rhythm]

Not that this series is over....

Red Wings fans, what are your thoughts on Hossa? I read that there is a deal in place, but it won't be signed until after the Finals.

Do you want to keep him? And at what price?

He's playing a great defensive game still, but offensively...nothing. Seems more like he's reverted to his Ottawa days and it more of a passenger than a premier guy.

[RomaGoth]

Not that this series is over....

Red Wings fans, what are your thoughts on Hossa? I read that there is a deal in place, but it won't be signed until after the Finals.

Do you want to keep him? And at what price?

He's playing a great defensive game still, but offensively...nothing. Seems more like he's reverted to his Ottawa days and it more of a passenger than a premier guy.

I would like to keep Hossa. He has fit in very well. With the Wings, a team game is the first priority, thus he is not expected to put up monster numbers like in Ottawa. With that being said, I would like to see him put up a little more offense in the postseason, but overall I am happy with his performance.

[Honolulu_Blue]

Not that this series is over....

Red Wings fans, what are your thoughts on Hossa? I read that there is a deal in place, but it won't be signed until after the Finals.

Do you want to keep him? And at what price?

He's playing a great defensive game still, but offensively...nothing. Seems more like he's reverted to his Ottawa days and it more of a passenger than a premier guy.

Not surprisingly, this debate has come up quite a bit of late on local sportstalk radio.

I really haven't put too much thought into it, since I never really believed the Wings would sign both Franzen and Hossa.

The second question is the right one to ask: At what price. Despite his lack of production in these playoffs, he's an incredibly talented player and can be a force out there both defensively and offensively. So, of course, I'd like to see him stay.

Though I think it could be a mistake to tie up too many players to too many long term deals worth too much. That's just putting a lot of eggs in one basket and not giving your team any cap flexibility. It's impossible to know what the cap will look like year from year or when you'll need the money to re-sign a good, up and coming player (e.g., Helm, Ericsson, Hulder, etc.) or what needs will suddenly need to be addressed (goaltending post-Chris Osgood, who is turning out to be an incredible bargain).

It is also beginning to look like last year was the exception to Hossa's performance in the playoffs rather than the rule. That said, it's not like he's been invisible out there. I think he's a great player and it's been a joy watching him play this year.

So, to answer the question, yes, I'd like to see the Wings keep him. I just don't see how they'd be able to pay him enough. If he's willing to take $5.5 - $6 million a year (capwise), the Wings are really right up against it, assuming the cap stays about the same. I can't see Hossa going for anything lower than that (as even that is pushing it).

[B & B]

His lack of scoring is not due to his clear 'shoot first' mentality. Many times during this final series and the one vs CHI he has simply looked slow on the ice. He just doesnt seem to be showing that extra gear that you see from guys like Henrik and Helm. Just an observation.

[DataKing]

Hossa may not be the fastest guy out there, but what always impressed me is how strong he is on his skates, especially while holding the puck in the offensive zone. He reminds me of Sergei Federov in his prime in that respect. And you need guys like that in order to play the puck-possession game the Wings are famous for. It may not always show up on the score-sheet, but Hossa is one of the best guys in the league at gaining the zone and maintaining puck-possession IMO.

In that respect, I'd love to see the Wings sign him to another deal, but at some point you have to wonder where the cap-room is going to come from. They already have Datsyuk, Zetterberg, and Franzen locked down to long-term deals. At some point you're going to have to start paying the up-and-coming guys that have shown up in the playoffs. Can you imagine how other GMs in the league must be salivating over the idea of snatching up Darren Helm at some point because the Wings can't afford to pay him?

The biggest saving grace the Wings have with regards to the cap is in net. Ozzie is an absolute steal at 1.3m per year (approx). But at some point you figure blue-liners like Stuart and Kronwall are going to command some pretty good dollars too, right? Lidstrom and Rafalski can't do it forever. (OK...maybe Lidstrom can...but I'm pretty sure the guy isn't even human).

TL;DR. So long as they can make it work without hurting the team's long-term future, then by all means sign Hossa. But don't mortgage the future to do it (and I have no doubt this is Ken Holland's thinking as well).

[Suburban Rhythm]

Lidstrom has 1 more year left on this contract, correct?

I think an underrated part of the long term deals is all were signed while Lidstrom was still around, so the de facto $7.45M cap was in place, so it was a little easier to get Z and Datsyuk to agree to those deals.

[Honolulu_Blue]

Lidstrom has 1 more year left on this contract, correct?

I think an underrated part of the long term deals is all were signed while Lidstrom was still around, so the de facto $7.45M cap was in place, so it was a little easier to get Z and Datsyuk to agree to those deals.

Yes, one more year.

While the role of the de facto $7.45M cap can't be overlooked, based on the recent Datsyuk/Zetterberg/Franzen deals the Wings have pretty much established what they consider "market value" for certain types of players.

I don't think Lidstrom's salary figure really played a significant part in anything other than the 1 year Hossa deal.

If a player is interested in coming to Detroit, and Holland says, "I'm sorry, your per yer cap hit can't be any higher than Zetterberg's/Datsyuk's", 99 players out of 100 will just have to accept that fact without much argument.

[Honolulu_Blue]

This is totally unrelated to the playoffs, but...

Has Lathum finally found some validation for one of the all time great FOFC Draft blunders?

See:

6.4 Power Forward Danny Heatly- ottowa, atlanta

2 time 50 gaol scorer with an outside shot at this year.

Won Calder Trophy, 3 time all star, all star game MVP, holds numerous Senators records.




Change of scenery? Dany Heatley may want out of Ottawa - ESPN (http://sports.espn.go.com/espn/blog/index?entryID=4245506&name=hradek_ej)

PITTSBURGH -- Is Senators winger Dany Heatley seeking his ticket out of Ottawa? Sources tell me that is the case.
According to those sources, Ottawa GM Bryan Murray has been notified of Heatley's desire for a change of scenery and is mulling his options. On the record, though, Murray said Heatley is still a Senator.

"We signed him to a long-term deal and we expect him to honor it," Murray told ESPN.com's Pierre LeBrun on Tuesday morning. "At this point in time, he's a Senator."

Murray could retool the Senators' roster by moving Heatley. Of course, any trading partner would have to have the budget room necessary to accommodate the remaining five years of Heatley's deal, which counts for $7.5 million against the cap. Heatley is thought to be interested in a move to the Western Conference.

The 28-year-old power forward signed a six-year, $45 million contract extension (complete with a no-trade clause) with the Senators in Oct. 2007, just four months after helping the club to its first Cup finals appearance. Since then, however, the Senators have plummeted down the Eastern Conference standings, missing the playoffs this past season.

[MikeVic]

LOL.

[Dr. Sak]

And Brent Sutter quit as NJ Coach

http://www.tsn.ca/nhl/story/?id=281325

[MikeVic]

Calgary now?

[Pumpy Tudors]

I liked Sutter, so I'll miss him. Still, I don't know how responsible he is for the Devils being incompetent in their own zone. Neutral zone? Fine. Offensive zone? Better than ever. Defensive zone? Please shoot me.

Maybe Lou will just hire himself for the whole season. That would be some epic comedy right there.

[MikeVic]

Or player-coach Colin White.

[Pumpy Tudors]

Or player-coach Colin White.
OH KISS MY ASS

[MikeVic]

asswhite.

[RomaGoth]

Red Wings should take the Cup tonight. The Pens will come out fast, so if we can withstand the initial barrage, the game should go our way. With that being said, if we fall behind early we may be headed back to Detroit on Friday.

[B & B]

Think that the only way the Pens win tonight is with their PP. Really dont want to see a bunch of marginal calls going one-way for the black and gold. Im calling this out before the game tonight, and everyone watching will know if the officiating is lopsided and say four of the first five penalties are on DET.

The refs have swallowed their whistles for much of these finals, last game was the exception but with those ridiculous slashes (Im looking at you Maxime) they really had no choice. Pitt obviously lost their composure and that simply doesnt happen to a veteran team like Det.

Off to the store to pick up a few Molsens!

[Honolulu_Blue]

Think that the only way the Pens win tonight is with their PP. Really dont want to see a bunch of marginal calls going one-way for the black and gold. Im calling this out before the game tonight, and everyone watching will know if the officiating is lopsided and say four of the first five penalties are on DET.

I agree that specialty teams are important. They are a key reason why the Penguins won Games 3 and 4 and the Wings won Game 5. If the Wings can kill off penalties and their power play is going, they should have a good shot at this.

Beyond that first sentence... Is this more conpsiracy theory chatter? That the refs will some how be calling marignal penalties against Detroit in order to force a Game 7 because the NHL either wants this series to go 7 games or, in the alternative, really wants Crosby and the Penguins to win the Cup? I don't buy any of that. At all. If the Wings start taking penalties more likely than not it's becaue the Penguins are on fire and drawing them. The crowd may be a bit of a factor, but no more than typical.

[samifan24]

And Brent Sutter quit as NJ Coach

http://www.tsn.ca/nhl/story/?id=281325

Rumors have Sutter returning to become coach of the junior Red Deer Rebels, the team he owns.

[Pyser]

I liked Sutter, so I'll miss him. Still, I don't know how responsible he is for the Devils being incompetent in their own zone. Neutral zone? Fine. Offensive zone? Better than ever. Defensive zone? Please shoot me.

Maybe Lou will just hire himself for the whole season. That would be some epic comedy right there.

fuck sutter. he quit on the team, and you wonder why they quit on him with 80 seconds left in game 7

im glad hes gone. great coach, but it seemed like it was about him a lot more than the team.

im just mad at him right now overall. thanks for waiting so long to quit too, jerkoff.

[B & B]

Is this more conpsiracy theory chatter? That the refs will some how be calling marignal penalties against Detroit in order to force a Game 7 because the NHL either wants this series to go 7 games .


Call it what you want.

Both penalties came versus DET and were caused/instigated by PIT. I repeat, BOTH. Watch replays if you dont agree. Penguin fully runs into the alleged 'trip' vs. Fillipula. Refs obliged.

Im done with this.

Wont comment further and still fully expect DET to win this game, but Im not shocked that these early BULLSHIT calls went against the wings. Just as predicted.

[Dr. Sak]

The worst part about that goalie intereference was that the ref right in front of the action called NOTHING...it was the guy in the neutral zone who called it.

[Matthean]

Well, 12-3 shots on goal for the Pens and the Wings killed two power plays so the Wings have to be feeling good so far for it to be tied.

[bbor]

Or player-coach Colin White.

I like this idea.

[RomaGoth]

I am still not sure why the Wings are offensively challenged on the road in this series. I am sure the crowd has a little bit to do with it, but seriously....2 + 2 + 1 goals so far in three road games? I never realized Melon arena offered such a huge home ice advantage.

Whether the Wings win the Cup or not, the referees have not been consistent at all in the playoffs this year.

[RomaGoth]

Dola

Very disappointed in tonight's result.

With that being said, I do not see the Wings losing a game 7 at home.

Should be good. :popcorn:

[Dr. Sak]

What a game! Hats off to the Pens...for the majority of the game they kept Detroit shooting from bad angles.

[muns]

heck of a game tonight. Really looking forward to fridays game 7 :)

[Fidatelo]

I am still not sure why the Wings are offensively challenged on the road in this series. I am sure the crowd has a little bit to do with it, but seriously....2 + 2 + 1 goals so far in three road games? I never realized Melon arena offered such a huge home ice advantage.

I think maybe it has a lot to do with their strategy of shooting wide and looking for those fat bounces of the rocker boards. It just doesn't seem to work very well on the boards in Pittsburgh, or they aren't adjusting to the difference or something.

It might also be that MAF is rising to the occasion at home, and shrinking a bit on the road.

[Tekneek]

Guys. Give it a rest. Wings' skaters (not the goalie) gloved the puck in the crease 3 times in the first 2 games. All 3 should have been immediate penalty shots. None were called. End of discussion on the bias of the officiating.

[Pumpy Tudors]

In AHL news, Manitoba wins at Hershey to stay in the Calder Cup series and send the series back to Winnipeg. Hershey is up 3 games to 2. I was at game 3 in Hershey, and it was a great atmosphere. I'm cheering for the Hershey Bears, but the Moose are a tough team, and there's no guarantee that Hershey can finish this series off, especially on the road.

I'm all about the minor leagues, baby. Also, congrats to the South Carolina Stingrays for winning the Kelly Cup in the ECHL.

[Pumpy Tudors]

Guys. Give it a rest. Wings' skaters (not the goalie) gloved the puck in the crease 3 times in the first 2 games. All 3 should have been immediate penalty shots. None were called. End of discussion on the bias of the officiating.
Come on, what's a sports thread without the fans of the losing team blaming the officiating???

[Fidatelo]

In AHL news, Manitoba wins at Hershey to stay in the Calder Cup series and send the series back to Winnipeg. Hershey is up 3 games to 2. I was at game 3 in Hershey, and it was a great atmosphere. I'm cheering for the Hershey Bears, but the Moose are a tough team, and there's no guarantee that Hershey can finish this series off, especially on the road.

I'm all about the minor leagues, baby. Also, congrats to the South Carolina Stingrays for winning the Kelly Cup in the ECHL.

It's sad, I should care about the Mooses, but I just can't. I could get behind a WHL team, but every Moose game I've ever attended was a snooze fest filled with pointless fights and constant t-shirt cannons.

Still, I'm happy for all the folks that have been following them all these years since the Jets, they deserve to see some sort of successful team in this town for once.

[MikeVic]

In AHL news, Manitoba wins at Hershey to stay in the Calder Cup series and send the series back to Winnipeg. Hershey is up 3 games to 2. I was at game 3 in Hershey, and it was a great atmosphere. I'm cheering for the Hershey Bears, but the Moose are a tough team, and there's no guarantee that Hershey can finish this series off, especially on the road.

I'm all about the minor leagues, baby. Also, congrats to the South Carolina Stingrays for winning the Kelly Cup in the ECHL.

Cheering against the Moose.... Pumpy.... :rant:

[RomaGoth]

Guys. Give it a rest. Wings' skaters (not the goalie) gloved the puck in the crease 3 times in the first 2 games. All 3 should have been immediate penalty shots. None were called. End of discussion on the bias of the officiating.

Never said anything about the bias of officiating. The calls, or non-calls, have been poor for both teams. I just want some consistency from the refs for a change.

[Tekneek]

Never said anything about the bias of officiating. The calls, or non-calls, have been poor for both teams. I just want some consistency from the refs for a change.

It has been consistently poor the entire series. Better to just finish it out and try to get off to a better start next year. Changing it for game 7 is rather unfair to everybody at this point.

[Pumpy Tudors]

hehe go bears

[Ajaxab]

I am still not sure why the Wings are offensively challenged on the road in this series. I am sure the crowd has a little bit to do with it, but seriously....2 + 2 + 1 goals so far in three road games? I never realized Melon arena offered such a huge home ice advantage.

I've been puzzled by this as well. I would need to count it to verify, but it seems the Wings play more of a dump and chase game on the road to get the matchups they want. At home, they tend to carry the puck through the neutral zone and across the blue line as they get the last change and don't have to be swapping out defense pairs and getting certain lines on the ice.

I can't see Detroit losing at home on Friday night. MAF could prove me wrong, but I don't see him as a game 7 Stanley Cup winning goalie right now, especially on the road.

[MikeVic]

Go Moose!

[DataKing]

I've been puzzled by this as well. I would need to count it to verify, but it seems the Wings play more of a dump and chase game on the road to get the matchups they want. At home, they tend to carry the puck through the neutral zone and across the blue line as they get the last change and don't have to be swapping out defense pairs and getting certain lines on the ice.

This is exactly what they do. From what I've seen, the last change is why every team has won their home ice games in this series. Which is why I have little fear of the outcome on Friday. There's only so much you can do to alter match-ups on the road, and I fully expect the Wings to pretty much shut down Crosby and Malkin at the Joe and come away with the victory.

[RomaGoth]

This is exactly what they do. From what I've seen, the last change is why every team has won their home ice games in this series. Which is why I have little fear of the outcome on Friday. There's only so much you can do to alter match-ups on the road, and I fully expect the Wings to pretty much shut down Crosby and Malkin at the Joe and come away with the victory.

I agree. I would have thought that with both Daysuk and Zetterberg, however, favorable matchups for Detroit would have been somewhat more possible. With that being said, the dump and chase junk they have done on the road this year has been mind-numbing. :banghead:

[gstelmack]

IWith that being said, the dump and chase junk they have done on the road this year has been mind-numbing. :banghead:

Hey, dump and chase got the Hurricanes all the way to the Eastern Conference Finals!

That's pretty much their standard tactic all the time...

[RomaGoth]

Hey, dump and chase got the Hurricanes all the way to the Eastern Conference Finals!

That's pretty much their standard tactic all the time...

Nothing against the Canes, but the Wings have not played that style of hockey in a long, long time. This is why it is particularly frustrating to see it in the SCF...

[gstelmack]

Nothing against the Canes, but the Wings have not played that style of hockey in a long, long time. This is why it is particularly frustrating to see it in the SCF...

Forgot the smiley, it's one of the frustrating things about the Canes is watching them throw the puck in the end and pray...

[RomaGoth]

Forgot the smiley, it's one of the frustrating things about the Canes is watching them throw the puck in the end and pray...

I find that interesting, because Staal and Wesley and Cole and Samsonov seem to be good enough to do more than dump it in and pray...:)

[Suburban Rhythm]

I find that interesting, because Staal and Wesley and Cole and Samsonov seem to be good enough to do more than dump it in and pray...:)

:confused:

*checks calendar....2009 still*

:confused:

Assuming this is Whitney ;)

[RomaGoth]

:confused:

*checks calendar....2009 still*

:confused:

Assuming this is Whitney ;)

errr...yeah Whitney :redface:

[Suburban Rhythm]

Fleury is the key to game 7. Osgood you know what you can expect mostly- very solid behind a fantastic team in front of him.

Which Fleury is showing up? Beyond the selfish reasons of wanting the Pens to win, this kid takes enormous amounts of abuse, as a 24 year old, for crumbling (some of which is on him). Would be nice to see him vindicated.

[Honolulu_Blue]

Fleury is the key to game 7. Osgood you know what you can expect mostly- very solid behind a fantastic team in front of him.

Which Fleury is showing up? Beyond the selfish reasons of wanting the Pens to win, this kid takes enormous amounts of abuse, as a 24 year old, for crumbling (some of which is on him). Would be nice to see him vindicated.

I agree that Fleury is the key. He showed in Game 5 last year and in some moments last night he can steal a game.

As for vindication, he's only 24. He's got years and years to work on being vindicated, Chris Osgood is 36 and his time is about due, no?

[Suburban Rhythm]

I agree that Fleury is the key. He showed in Game 5 last year and in some moments last night he can steal a game.

As for vindication, he's only 24. He's got years and years to work on being vindicated, Chris Osgood is 36 and his time is about due, no?

If the Wings lose, Osgood still has his 2 cups to help him get over it.

Fleury is 2nd to only whoever the Steelers QB is at any given minute as the most vilified person in Pittsburgh.

[Honolulu_Blue]

If the Wings lose, Osgood still has his 2 cups to help him get over it.

You'd think that'd be the case, but for whatever reason, it's not. The people love to complain about Chris Osgood. All of the people. He's really the one Red Wing who, I think, would finally get his due if things work out for the best on Friday.


Fleury is 2nd to only whoever the Steelers QB is at any given minute as the most vilified person in Pittsburgh.

Are you referring to two time Super Bowl winning quarterback Ben Roethlisberger? You people have high standards.

[Tekneek]

You'd think that'd be the case, but for whatever reason, it's not. The people love to complain about Chris Osgood. All of the people. He's really the one Red Wing who, I think, would finally get his due if things work out for the best on Friday.

For real? I'm not buying it. He has been the starting goaltender for 2 cup victories. Anybody who needs him to pull out a third to get respect is a fool.

[DeToxRox]

For real? I'm not buying it. He has been the starting goaltender for 2 cup victories. Anybody who needs him to pull out a third to get respect is a fool.

You've never been to Detroit then.

There's a hierarchy here as far as athletes that get blasted:

1. Osgood
2. Brandon Inge
3. Tayshaun prince
4. Matt Stafford (Already, but wait till he actually plays, Ozzy will get some relief)

Frankly, I don't like Prince, and Inge I can tolerate now that he seems to bitch less, and you know, produces, but Ozzy gets a bad rap and it isn't hos fault. Forever there has been so much talent that isn't can't possibly be anyone elses fault but the goalies. He has some huge balls though because he never let it bother him and he just keeps producing.

[muns]

You'd think that'd be the case, but for whatever reason, it's not. The people love to complain about Chris Osgood. All of the people. He's really the one Red Wing who, I think, would finally get his due if things work out for the best on Friday.



Are you referring to two time Super Bowl winning quarterback Ben Roethlisberger? You people have high standards.

ya he is. People in pittsburgh are stupid with Roethlisberger. Its all his fault when they loose, and he doesnt share in the glory when they win. Really unfair, but hey its pittsburgh.

[muns]

For real? I'm not buying it. He has been the starting goaltender for 2 cup victories. Anybody who needs him to pull out a third to get respect is a fool.

dola

have to give a :+1: here.

[Honolulu_Blue]

For real? I'm not buying it. He has been the starting goaltender for 2 cup victories. Anybody who needs him to pull out a third to get respect is a fool.

I'm surprised by this reaction. I don't think this perception is limited to Detroit. I thought that the general perception was that the Wings won those Cups inspite of Osgood not because of him and that he's just a meidocare goalie who happens to play for a good team. Every year that Osgood has been the starter (including this one, by the way), goaltending is always, always raised as the Wings primary concern.

Read some press, Detroit, national, whatever and you'll see this is the general perception of the guy.

[Tekneek]

You've never been to Detroit then.

There's a hierarchy here as far as athletes that get blasted:

1. Osgood
2. Brandon Inge
3. Tayshaun prince
4. Matt Stafford (Already, but wait till he actually plays, Ozzy will get some relief)

Frankly, I don't like Prince, and Inge I can tolerate now that he seems to bitch less, and you know, produces, but Ozzy gets a bad rap and it isn't hos fault. Forever there has been so much talent that isn't can't possibly be anyone elses fault but the goalies. He has some huge balls though because he never let it bother him and he just keeps producing.

If he has to win a third Cup (as the starter), then even that won't be enough. No point in worrying about getting the approval of people with that mindset.

[DeToxRox]

From the totally irrational but my feeling is the Pens win Friday for the simple fact that the away teams has to win once, no? Obviously it's stupid but I could see it.

Frankly I'd like to see Dats, if healthy, center Hossa and Holmer, and reunited Z, Cleary and Franzen.

Then have Flip, Sammy and Helm, and Draper, Hudler and Malts.

Also, HB, are you as surprised as me people are putting up a stink that if we brought back Hossa we'd lose Huds? It's obvious Babcock does not trust him and his ice team continues to shrink. At this point I don't see why, even if we brought Hossa back, we'd retain him at the price of 3 mil or so a season. He scores goals but Babs isn't going to play him when it matters so I just don't see the point.

I'd rather not even sign Hossa now and just go make a run at Bouwmeester. Give the forward minutes to Helmer, Leino and maybe Abdelkader though he probably needs one more year in the A.

[Tekneek]

I'm surprised by this reaction. I don't think this perception is limited to Detroit. I thought that the general perception was that the Wings won those Cups inspite of Osgood not because of him and that he's just a meidocare goalie who happens to play for a good team. Every year that Osgood has been the starter (including this one, by the way), goaltending is always, always raised as the Wings primary concern.

Read some press, Detroit, national, whatever and you'll see this is the general perception of the guy.

Hmmm...

I've seen the stats. 2.12 GAA and .918 save % for his first run as starter. 1.55 GAA and .930 save % for the second. In spite of Osgood? Only for dumbasses.

[Dr. Sak]

ya he is. People in pittsburgh are stupid

you could've stopped right there...

[unisol_us]

The key to the win Fri is pretty simple. The Pens must continue to punish the Wings with the body. If the Wings get into the skating game and puck possession game they play so well at home MAF is going to look bad again. If the Pens can take the body hard the finesse game of the Wings will be ruined. Even if Pittsburgh can grind it out I think they will only win by one. Man can't wait.

[muns]

you could've stopped right there...

honestly it took me leaving for a bit to see how how bad it can be with football there. I thought it was "normal", naaaaaa not even close.

[Honolulu_Blue]

From the totally irrational but my feeling is the Pens win Friday for the simple fact that the away teams has to win once, no? Obviously it's stupid but I could see it.

Frankly I'd like to see Dats, if healthy, center Hossa and Holmer, and reunited Z, Cleary and Franzen.

Then have Flip, Sammy and Helm, and Draper, Hudler and Malts.

Also, HB, are you as surprised as me people are putting up a stink that if we brought back Hossa we'd lose Huds? It's obvious Babcock does not trust him and his ice team continues to shrink. At this point I don't see why, even if we brought Hossa back, we'd retain him at the price of 3 mil or so a season. He scores goals but Babs isn't going to play him when it matters so I just don't see the point.

I'd rather not even sign Hossa now and just go make a run at Bouwmeester. Give the forward minutes to Helmer, Leino and maybe Abdelkader though he probably needs one more year in the A.

I agree on the line combos. The current ones haven't generated too much 5-on-5 offense over the last two games. Holmstrom has looked completely lost out there. Hossa could definitely use a boost of something.

Hudler just hasn't been the same since he got hit by Mike Brown. He's been nearly invisible. I like him, but I really don't think he'd be worth keeping at $3 million. It will be really interesting to see what happens with him regardless of whether the Wings try to keep Hossa (which I don't think will happen).

[Honolulu_Blue]

Hmmm...

I've seen the stats. 2.12 GAA and .918 save % for his first run as starter. 1.55 GAA and .930 save % for the second. In spite of Osgood? Only for dumbasses.

You're preaching to the choir. That said, nobody ever claimed the world wasn't full of dumbasses.

[samifan24]

I'm surprised by this reaction. I don't think this perception is limited to Detroit. I thought that the general perception was that the Wings won those Cups inspite of Osgood not because of him and that he's just a meidocare goalie who happens to play for a good team. Every year that Osgood has been the starter (including this one, by the way), goaltending is always, always raised as the Wings primary concern.

Read some press, Detroit, national, whatever and you'll see this is the general perception of the guy.

I agree that this seems to be the national perception of Osgood.

[Suburban Rhythm]

Are you referring to two time Super Bowl winning quarterback Ben Roethlisberger? You people have high standards.

Not just limited to Ben, but obviously him right now.

I was at a Steelers - Bengals game about 6-7 years ago. This was during the Tommy Maddox era. Maddox threw an interception, got tied up with someone on the return, and limps off the field.

Next series, Charlie Batch comes in. He hadn't just thrown an int, so he's obviously better. 1 completion...3 straight...5 straight...7 straight. Crowd going nuts, Batch leading them down the field as halftime nears.

Next throw...picked. "Get him outta there...he stinks...get Maddox back in there!!!!"

That is how quickly the backup is a superior option to the starter.

Sorry to threadjack, we now return you to your regularly scheduled NHL playoffs thread...

[Dr. Sak]

How about last year when the Eagles were beating the piss out of Ben cause his line sucked...Ben went out Leftwich came in and drove the Steelers down for a score. The next day people were calling for Leftwich to start.

[Suburban Rhythm]

I'm surprised by this reaction. I don't think this perception is limited to Detroit. I thought that the general perception was that the Wings won those Cups inspite of Osgood not because of him and that he's just a meidocare goalie who happens to play for a good team. Every year that Osgood has been the starter (including this one, by the way), goaltending is always, always raised as the Wings primary concern.

Read some press, Detroit, national, whatever and you'll see this is the general perception of the guy.

He didn't help himself with an awful regular season this year.

I think alot of the perception is based on him leaving Detroit, and stinking it up on Long Island. Which anyone in that same situation would have seen the same drop in stats, so it was easy to point at him as a product of the system.

[Suburban Rhythm]

How about last year when the Eagles were beating the piss out of Ben cause his line sucked...Ben went out Leftwich came in and drove the Steelers down for a score. The next day people were calling for Leftwich to start.

And the Monday night game vs the Redskins, when Leftwich came in during the 2nd qtr

[bbor]

BTW...did anyone notice that the Flyers have solved their goaltending problems by signing Ray Emory?

:)

[Suburban Rhythm]

By solved, you mean found someone so crazy people will think of him as the next Hextall, right?


Also, Petr Sykora, who got back into the lineup last night after after sitting out 4 straight, was seen leaving the arena on crutches today. It's believed to be a broken foot, suffered while blocking a shot from Brett Lebda.

Most likely, Satan regains his spot after missing one game.

[Dr. Sak]

BTW...did anyone notice that the Flyers have solved their goaltending problems by signing Ray Emory?

:)

I am on the fence with this signing. The Flyers don't have much cap room and they need to sign 2 goalies and a defenseman. Emery comes with a price tag of $1.5 million for 1 year. They aren't investing much in him and if he acts up they can just cut ties and not really worry about losing money long term.

There is hope that Emery will shape up. Yea I know it could be a losing battle, but I guess the playing conditions of the KHL are way worse than the NHL. So he might have some incentive to behave.

Exclusive: Emery Had to Rough It in Russia (http://csnphilly.com/pages/landing_09?blockID=58167&feedID=733)

They can't afford to keep Biron, he wants something around $4 million per for 4 or 5 years. I like Biron and do not blame either years playoff losses on him. But he is not worth that much for how inconsistent he is during the regular season.

I know all about his bad attitude and that mixed with Philly is a lot of the times a volatile mixture. I think it is a calculated risk. One of the Flyers management guys Peter Lukko has kept in contact with Emery a lot of last season, it isn't something they are just jumping into.

And when you look at the other potential FAs for goalies, what they will demand for how good they are...the return isn't really that positive.

[RomaGoth]

I agree on the line combos. The current ones haven't generated too much 5-on-5 offense over the last two games. Holmstrom has looked completely lost out there. Hossa could definitely use a boost of something.

Hudler just hasn't been the same since he got hit by Mike Brown. He's been nearly invisible. I like him, but I really don't think he'd be worth keeping at $3 million. It will be really interesting to see what happens with him regardless of whether the Wings try to keep Hossa (which I don't think will happen).

I am actually retracting what I said earlier this week about Hossa. While he has fit in pretty well with the Wings, and had a good regular season, he has not looked good in the playoffs, especially in the finals. Unless he signs for significantly less than market value, I would keep Hudler and let Hossa walk.

[bbor]

I'd like to know where Biron thinks he is going to get that kinda money?

[Honolulu_Blue]

I'd like to know where Biron thinks he is going to get that kinda money?

KHL?

[JPhillips]

Apparently there are rumblings that Nylander could go to the KHL. The Caps couldn't possibly be so lucky.

[Dr. Sak]

I'd like to know where Biron thinks he is going to get that kinda money?

I agree...but that's what his agent is asking.

But Huet did get a lot of money last year.

[Suburban Rhythm]

This sandwich/BBQ place is about 5 mins from me. Billy Guerin must have visited recently-

http://i302.photobucket.com/albums/nn114/llipgh58/Guerin.jpg

sak, do you know where this place is-- 51 South, heading out of town.


Should this be added to the "thread for images so cool they belong in this thread"?

[sterlingice]

Quality :D

SI

[Maple Leafs]

Who's the swedish player holding the sign?

[Suburban Rhythm]

Who's the swedish player holding the sign?

Victor Hedman- that's the new strength test at the combine.

[sterlingice]

Alright kids, it's almost game time on NBC.

SI

[Dr. Sak]

Last game till October...I hope it's a good one.

[sterlingice]

You know I'm all about Detroit losin-- err Pittsburgh winning ;) but what I really want to see is one hell of an exciting game with great goaltending but something like 2-2 going into OT because of amazing goals by the skill players. There are a lot of people watching this game who wouldn't normally and it'd be great to give them one hell of a show

SI

[Dr. Sak]

I agree with everything except your out come SI.

[sterlingice]

Wow that was stupid by Stewart

SI

[sterlingice]

Malkin with the botched pass but Pittsburgh's power play looked sharp there

SI

[sterlingice]

Ok, those last 5 minutes were fun as hell

SI

[muns]

I dont think the NHL could have asked for a better first period. Heck of a game so far.

[B & B]

This is the 'fastest' Ive seen Hossa play on ice this entire playoffs.

[Suburban Rhythm]

Pens made a pretty good statement the last 10 mins I think. Detroit came out flying in the first 2-3.

[sterlingice]

GOOOOOAL!

SI

[Eaglesfan27]

Nice goal. Very enjoyable game so far.

[sterlingice]

Rinky dink hook. Didn't see either foul, actually.

SI

[JonInMiddleGA]

{starts to wonder, however prematurely, where in the annals of sports disappointments this would fall}

[sterlingice]

What a chance but never had a good look at the goal

SI

[Danny]

What channel is the game on? I couldn't find it and it's not in my local tv listings at all.

[sterlingice]

NBC

SI

[Eaglesfan27]

It's on NBC.

[Dr. Sak]

NBC

[Danny]

Thanks!

[Karlifornia]

Holy shit Pittsburgh up 2-0!

[muns]

so what the heck happened to crosby??

I clearly missed it

[sterlingice]

so what the heck happened to crosby??

I clearly missed it

Got slammed into his leg pretty hard and he skated really slowly off the ice.

SI

[RomaGoth]

Guess Talbot will get the last laugh after all.

Haven't seen the Wings look this flat and tired in a long time.

Edit: I will add that the Pens most definitely came to play tonight.

[DeToxRox]

Detroit looks defeated already. Stuart has been beyond awful leading to both Talbot goals, and Fleury is playing like I didn't think was possible for him at this point. No one is gonna beat Pittsburgh when MAF plays like he has been.

That said, file a missing person report on Franzen. He's been terrible the last few games.

[sterlingice]

Pittsburgh has looked just a step quicker, playing a little harder, and just looking a little hungrier. That said, there's 20 long minutes of hockey to play and a 2 goal lead isn't huge. This just doesn't seem like a game that's over by any stretch considering how wide open this game has been and Detroit will be amping up the pressure by the minute in the 3rd period. Fleury is playing great but I just get the impression that if one goal squeaks through for the Wings, the Pens start doubting a bit and that swagger they are playing with now can melt away a little.

SI

[sabotai]

One of the most overused and, as a result, meaningless catchphares in sports is to say one team just wanted it more. I doubt that's ever really the case. But in this game....it really does look like the Penguins want it more. Detroit looks like they are just going through the motions while the Penguins look like they are skating and working their asses off. They are beating the Red Wings to most loose pucks, and when they don't, they don't give up. They keep fighting. Detroit doesn't.

[muns]

Glad the second period is now over. "MO" switched in Detroits favor at the end of that period. Was nerve racking.

[MrBug708]

So what's everyone think of game 5 down in Orlando? :)

[sabotai]

So what's everyone think of game 5 down in Orlando? :)

Game 5 of what?

[Suburban Rhythm]

YouTube - Funny Pittsburgh Penguin Car Commercial Part II (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dZ0TST2GTM4)

YouTube - Funny Pittsburgh Penguins Car Commercial, airing on FSN HD (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KOrvdvczpEA)

If a youtube is worth 1,000 words-- there is 2,000 for you

[RomaGoth]

One of the most overused and, as a result, meaningless catchphares in sports is to say one team just wanted it more. I doubt that's ever really the case. But in this game....it really does look like the Penguins want it more. Detroit looks like they are just going through the motions while the Penguins look like they are skating and working their asses off. They are beating the Red Wings to most loose pucks, and when they don't, they don't give up. They keep fighting. Detroit doesn't.

Glad I am not the only one who is seeing this game for what it is. I have followed the Wings for nearly 30 years, and rarely have seen them play this "heartless" within their modern dynasty. They look old, tired, and a little out of sorts.

As for missing person reports, we should file one on Franzen, Cleary, and Hossa. WTF happened to these guys??

This is most definitely not the same team that plays a slick, puck possession game.

[RomaGoth]

So what's everyone think of game 5 down in Orlando? :)

Is it Sunday already? Damn, I just got out of work a few hours ago...

[Suburban Rhythm]

We'll find out in about 24 hours, but I suspect Cleary is hurt.

Not sure on Franzen.

And Hossa, I got nothing...unless he's auditioning for the role of the tin man.

[muns]

YouTube - Funny Pittsburgh Penguin Car Commercial Part II (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dZ0TST2GTM4)

YouTube - Funny Pittsburgh Penguins Car Commercial, airing on FSN HD (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KOrvdvczpEA)

If a youtube is worth 1,000 words-- there is 2,000 for you

I dont have any words for that second one...

[RomaGoth]

We'll find out in about 24 hours, but I suspect Cleary is hurt.

Not sure on Franzen.

And Hossa, I got nothing...unless he's auditioning for the role of the tin man.

I have most definitely changed my opinion of Hossa. He has completely reverted to his "pre-Penguins of 2008 Stanley Cup Finals" performance standards. Read: he is a turd. :(

[bbor]

Hope this game does'nt get laid at Ozzys doorstep...the whole Wing team has looked disinterested.

[sterlingice]

Hope this game does'nt get laid at Ozzys doorstep...the whole Wing team has looked disinterested.

I'm as critical of him as anyone and while the second goal was a little soft, both were on horrible turnovers. He hasn't played great, but he isn't the reason they're losing

SI

[henry296]

Very defensive posture by the Pens... All they care about right now is getting the puck out. I think just before the break was their first sustained possession in Detroit's zone.

[sabotai]

We secretly replaced the Detroit Red Wings with the Detroit Lions. Let's see if anyone notices....

[sabotai]

Hey everyone, the Red Wings showed up!

[spleen1015]

Damn it.

[sterlingice]

This is going to be one hell of 5 minutes!

SI

[sabotai]

This is going to be one hell of 5 minutes!

SI


I'm hoping for 5 great minutes + one great OT.

[sterlingice]

I'm hoping for 5 great minutes + one great OT.

Hell, I'm for 5OT as long as Pittsburgh wins ;)

SI

[spleen1015]

WOW

[sterlingice]

Post?

SI

[spleen1015]

Post?

SI

It definitely hit pipe.

[Eaglesfan27]

This has been a very entertaining game with a great last few minutes.

[sterlingice]

Yeah, saw the replay- crossbar

SI

[sterlingice]

This has been a very entertaining game with a great last few minutes.

Agreed 100%. Like I said before, this didn't feel like one of those 2-0 insurmountable leads so the game was still very interesting.

SI

[spleen1015]

Holy shit.

[Galaxy]

Was that just the biggest save ever?

[Pyser]

hey detroit. next time try getting pucks to the net when you are losing in the 3rd.

[henry296]

Lord Stanley, Lord Stanley, get me the brandy!!!!!

[Galaxy]

Let the Penguin/Crosby cumfest continue.

[RomaGoth]

Biggest. Choke. Ever.

Grats Pens.

[Matthean]

Biggest. Choke. Ever.

Grats Pens.

Um, U of M? USC?

[sterlingice]

Great, great game. Man, that was fun to watch

SI

[sterlingice]

Have the Wings fans just been booing the entire time or is it just a lot of ambient empty noise?

SI

[thesloppy]

sooo....I guess my grandad has to give the cup back now?

http://i41.photobucket.com/albums/e291/thesloppy/cupp.jpg

[JonInMiddleGA]

Huge disappointment by Detroit, major egg laying performance.

It's not Jets over Colts, Douglas over Tyson, nor Giants over Pats, but it's pretty big IMO.

[Logan]

Did Crosby miss shaking the hand of the vast majority of the Wings or did I just see it wrong?

[Galaxy]

I like how they boo, then cheer, then boo.

[DataKing]

Grats to the Penguins...they outplayed the Wings tonight no doubt. Enjoy it Pens fans. I mean that.

[Pyser]

i wonder if ill ever stop loving all nhl fans booing the shit out of bettman

[RomaGoth]

i wonder if ill ever stop loving all nhl fans beating the shit out of bettman

fixed.

[samifan24]

Congrats to the Pens. Can you imagine how happy Bylsma is now when he started the year in Scranton and finished with winning the Stanley Cup? My only question now is does he win the Jack Adams for his performance? I think he does.

[sterlingice]

Does anyone not like Mario?

SI

[RomaGoth]

Congrats to the Pens. Can you imagine how happy Bylsma is now when he started the year in Scranton and finished with winning the Stanley Cup? My only question now is does he win the Jack Adams for his performance? I think he does.

He went to high school about a half hour from where I grew up. Quite a year for him to be sure.

[yacovfb]

Congrats to the Pens. Can you imagine how happy Bylsma is now when he started the year in Scranton and finished with winning the Stanley Cup? My only question now is does he win the Jack Adams for his performance? I think he does.

Usually you have to be nominated to win. I'd make an exception for him this year, though, if it were up to me. Helluva coaching job.

[DeToxRox]

Kudos to the Pens. MAF was huge in the last two games when he needed to be and their whole team stepped up to play team first hockey. Lots of blocked shots, lots of selfless plays and just an all around awesome effort.

[muns]

Hell of a game.

I cant help but wonder whats going to go on in the hossa house hold tonight.

[PurdueBrad]

WOOOO, yes. It's a good time to be a Steelers and Pens fan (and sadly, a Pirate fan). I'm excited that my son was born in the year that the Steelers won the Super Bowl and the Pens the Cup. Sadly, Pittsburgh (with no team obviously) probably has a better chance at an NBA Title than a World Series!

Oh, and EF, the sig may have to stay forever now!

[Chief Rum]

Way to go, Pens. Very glad to see Kuni get an another one, and to see Bylsma get his Cup.

And now I can rest easy knowing that it wasn't as simple as just a stupid pushed leg pad from the Ducks winning the Cup this year.

[Suburban Rhythm]

That was a rough 3rd but it doesn't matter now. I though for a minute Michel Therrien had been rehired between peridods-- they played not to lose, rather than to win.

MAX TALBOT IS FUCKING CLUTCH! I thought Helm was really good this playoff run, but the amount of love he was getting when a guy like Talbot is doing the same thing, plus maybe a little more...and he's a great actor!

And Fleury-- HUGE save at the end. MAF of a year or 2 ago doesn't make that.

I'm considering keeping my beard now and changing it to a "Pirates reach .500" beard

[Suburban Rhythm]

Kudos to the Pens. MAF was huge in the last two games when he needed to be and their whole team stepped up to play team first hockey. Lots of blocked shots, lots of selfless plays and just an all around awesome effort.

Just threw out this stat on NHL Network

Blocked shots:

Detroit- 3
Pittsburgh - 20

:eek:

[Tekneek]

I cant help but wonder whats going to go on in the hossa house hold tonight.

I was a Hossa fan back as he entered the league with Ottawa. However, I loved seeing him lose tonight. I really wonder if anybody has ever been in a similar position as him. Lose the Cup, reject a multiyear deal to sign a 1 year deal with the team you lost the Cup to, then face your old team in the Cup final and lose.

[Suburban Rhythm]

Anyone else think Dan Cleary checks his closet and under his bed before bed to make sure Brooks Orpik isn't waiting for him?

These last two finals, I don't know if Orpik has abused anyone more.

[samifan24]

Usually you have to be nominated to win. I'd make an exception for him this year, though, if it were up to me. Helluva coaching job.

Wow I'm embarrassed that I forgot that you had to be nominated. Well, I'd vote for Claude Julien but I'm biased so we'll see. :D

[henry296]

The voting for all awards is after the regular season. The nominees are just the top 3 vote getters.

[Suburban Rhythm]

One other great tidbit.

Talbot said he wanted to tell Hossa in the handshake line what a terrible decision he made.

Then goes out and scores 2

That's what superstar's do

[RedKingGold]

WOOOO, yes. It's a good time to be a Steelers and Pens fan (and sadly, a Pirate fan). I'm excited that my son was born in the year that the Steelers won the Super Bowl and the Pens the Cup. Sadly, Pittsburgh (with no team obviously) probably has a better chance at an NBA Title than a World Series!

Oh, and EF, the sig may have to stay forever now!

Is there such a thing as a Pirates fan who is neither a Penguins nor Steelers fan?

If so, right now has to suck.

[Chief Rum]

One other great tidbit.

Talbot said he wanted to tell Hossa in the handshake line what a terrible decision he made.

Then goes out and scores 2

That's what superstar's do

Did you just call Max Talbot a superstar?

[Suburban Rhythm]

YouTube - Funny Pittsburgh Penguin Car Commercial Part II (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dZ0TST2GTM4)

YouTube - Funny Pittsburgh Penguins Car Commercial, airing on FSN HD (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KOrvdvczpEA)

If a youtube is worth 1,000 words-- there is 2,000 for you

Did you just call Max Talbot a superstar?

More quoting than outright saying it.

[Chief Rum]

More quoting that outright saying it.

I don't think you should even quote that. :)

[Arles]

Fantastic game a series. Kudos to Pitt and Detroit for getting me back interested in Hockey!

[stevew]

The pirates will be over .500 at worst by the conclusion of the 2011 season.
They're going through that "learning how to win" stage right now.

I hate most Pittsburgh fans cause they are generally clueless homers. Very few even realize how lucky the Pens even were to get 2 of the top 5 players of their generation in back to back years. It is almost impossible in a major sport.

[Logan]

Did Crosby miss shaking the hand of the vast majority of the Wings or did I just see it wrong?

BTW, googling seems like a few other people noticed this also. Surprised it wasn't talked about.

[Pumpy Tudors]

MAX TALBOT IS A SUPERSTAR

WE DO NOT ARGUE THIS

[JPhillips]

The curse of the Senators. I read that no player drafted by this incarnation of the Senators has won the cup.

[Maple Leafs]

The curse of the Senators. I read that no player drafted by this incarnation of the Senators has won the cup.

0-for-151.

[Wolfpack]

While I'm not utterly happy that the Pens won the Cup considering they had a number of absolute jerks infest the various local media websites during the ECFs leaving me in the reluctant position of wanting Detroit to win, I'm happy for both Craig Adams (second time on the Cup for the ex-Cane from '06) and Jordan Staal (last reference to "younger brother of Carolina center Eric Staal" of the year).

Congrats to the Pens and much of their fanbase. The 'Burgh is definitely on a roll like Boston was for a while.

[Suburban Rhythm]

Did Crosby miss shaking the hand of the vast majority of the Wings or did I just see it wrong?

http://tsn.ca/nhl/story/?id=281761

Kris Draper, voice of reason.

[Logan]

http://tsn.ca/nhl/story/?id=281761

Kris Draper, voice of reason.

I thought there was no way he could've gotten thru the line with how far back he was celebrating with coaches. And then I heard Babcock getting picked up by a mic saying something like "that's some great leadership Sydney" and while I thought maybe he wasn't being sarcastic, it seemed like it made sense.

Considering how much I destroyed Brodeur for not shaking Avery's hand last year (and while he may have had a legit reason, my stance was you man up and respect the tradition), I feel the need to say this:

Go fuck yourself you fucking woman.

[Honolulu_Blue]

http://tsn.ca/nhl/story/?id=281761

Kris Draper, voice of reason.

:confused:

[Tekneek]

So what? Put me down as someone who doesn't care about that anymore.

[bbor]

As a hockey player and a coach...there is absolutly no excuse for what Crosby did.Hockey players are renown for tearing each other apart on the ice but as soon as the whistle goes it is back to being decent human beings and showing good sportsmanship.

[Suburban Rhythm]

If you watched all the post game, he was the first person grabbed by about 30 media people. Then he was in line. He talked to Franzen for awhile (assume the hit).

If he shook nobodies hand, you have an argument. That isn't the case.

Where was Lidstrom? If he felt so strongly about shaking Crosby's hand, why didn't he circle back around to catch Crosby after he entered the line?

And where was Draper during this too? You have a message you want to get across, go tell him yourself.

[Honolulu_Blue]

As a hockey player and a coach...there is absolutly no excuse for what Crosby did.Hockey players are renown for tearing each other apart on the ice but as soon as the whistle goes it is back to being decent human beings and showing good sportsmanship.

Agreed.

While not shaking hands isn't the end of the world, it's a long, long long standing hockey tradition and show of sportsmanship that the sport of hockey takes a lot of pride in. It's one of the things that separates it from the other sports.

So what? Put me down as someone who doesn't care about that anymore.

Sportsmanship? That's too bad.

[Suburban Rhythm]

Yes, I realize this is coming from a Pittsburgh paper.

No snub of Lidstrom, Pens officials say (http://www.postgazette.com/pg/09164/977298-455.stm)


Penguins officials have defended Sidney Crosby, the team's captain, against a charge that he snubbed his Detroit counterpart, Nicklas Lidstrom, in the handshake line after the team won the Stanley Cup at Joe Louis Arena last night.
Red Wings center Kris Draper told the Associated Press that "Nick was waiting and waiting, and Crosby didn't come over to shake his hand" in the traditional handshake line. He added that, "that's ridiculous, especially as their captain, and make sure you write that I said that."
Crosby could not be reached for comment Saturday, but when Tom McMillan, the Penguins' vice president of communications, was informed of Draper's accusation, he said:
"There's nobody who respects the traditions of hockey more than Sidney Crosby. It was a young team celebrating its first Cup and some of the guys might have been a little late getting into the handshake line."
Crosby was photographed going through the handshake line and it is not known how long Lidstrom waited before adjourning to the locker room.
Members of losing teams generally vacate the ice pretty quickly.

[Honolulu_Blue]

Yes, I realize this is coming from a Pittsburgh paper.

No snub of Lidstrom, Pens officials say (http://www.postgazette.com/pg/09164/977298-455.stm)

I didn't watch it (and the only picture I saw of it was him shaking Osgood's hand), so I'm more than willing to buy the whole "he got caught up in the moment" argument and just lost track of things and whose hand he shook and what not. I doubt it was intentional.

Now, you could argue that should have been focused on the handshake tradition first before celebrating, but given the chaos and emotions and all at the moment it's hard to fault him. Crosby haters, no doubt, will not see it that way.

[Chief Rum]

I didn't watch it (and the only picture I saw of it was him shaking Osgood's hand), so I'm more than willing to buy the whole "he got caught up in the moment" argument and just lost track of things and whose hand he shook and what not. I doubt it was intentional.

Now, you could argue that should have been focused on the handshake tradition first before celebrating, but given the chaos and emotions and all at the moment it's hard to fault him. Crosby haters, no doubt, will not see it that way.

Yeah, I guess I lean this way as well. I will say it's one more drop in the deserved criticism bucket for Sid the Kid, though. Crosby is well known for whining for calls and usually avoiding the rough stuff, still lives with Mario despite making a ton of money, and now for being late to the handshake line after winning the Cup.

IMO, all of this, except the whining crap, which will doubtless continue, is a sign of his age and maturity issues. It will get better as he gets older, but of course, right now, he's still really a kid.

Some guys don't act like this at a young age. Getzlaf comes to mind. Yzerman back in the day. But they're probably more the exception than the rule.

I think Crosby should call Lidstrom and apologize for not going straight to him. That's about all that's needed, IMO. That and hoping Crosby remembers this if he is ever in this same situation again, to handle it better.

[Oilers9911]

As a hockey player and a coach...there is absolutly no excuse for what Crosby did.Hockey players are renown for tearing each other apart on the ice but as soon as the whistle goes it is back to being decent human beings and showing good sportsmanship.

Come on man. It had nothing to do with poor sportsmanship. The guy was swarmed by tons of media and was celebrating with his teammates and coaches. The kid is 21 years old and just won the Stanley Cup. He shook some hands and the NBC idiots kept grabbing him for interviews. Why would he shake hands last year after losing the Cup but this year snub the Red Wings after winning it? Kris Draper is a baby.