The OFFICIAL 2009-10 NHL Regular Season Thread

[RomaGoth]

The regular season begins October 1. I am excited, been looking forward to seeing what the Wings can do this season without some of last year's players.

Are you all ready?
:popcorn:

[johnnyshaka]

Went to the Oilers' final preseason game last night and they actually looked pretty good. Top line scored a few PP markers (although I think they really need to revamp what they do on the PP) and the 2nd line scored a few beauties as well. A couple of fights including a "junior-style" tilt where Brule...yes, former #6 overall...squaring off at center ice and removing their lids and actually having a nice little dance. And then Brule actually had a hand in the OT winner as he won the draw and went to the net as Gilbert ripped a blast from the point.

From all accounts...and appearances...Quinn and company looks like he's going to try and have 3 scoring lines with two "skill" guys per line with that third guy being a big guy...whether it be Moreau, Penner, Jacques, S or even Stortini...to either create a little space or else make sure the "little" guys don't get run over. I like the concept, and from what I saw, but we'll see how it works out.

[RomaGoth]

Went to the Oilers' final preseason game last night and they actually looked pretty good. Top line scored a few PP markers (although I think they really need to revamp what they do on the PP) and the 2nd line scored a few beauties as well. A couple of fights including a "junior-style" tilt where Brule...yes, former #6 overall...squaring off at center ice and removing their lids and actually having a nice little dance. And then Brule actually had a hand in the OT winner as he won the draw and went to the net as Gilbert ripped a blast from the point.

From all accounts...and appearances...Quinn and company looks like he's going to try and have 3 scoring lines with two "skill" guys per line with that third guy being a big guy...whether it be Moreau, Penner, Jacques, S or even Stortini...to either create a little space or else make sure the "little" guys don't get run over. I like the concept, and from what I saw, but we'll see how it works out.

I watched a preseason game a few nights ago between the Oilers and Lightning. Is Penner considered an official "bust" if he is now a physical/tough guy on a line with 2 other "skill" guys?

[johnnyshaka]

I watched a preseason game a few nights ago between the Oilers and Lightning. Is Penner considered an official "bust" if he is now a physical/tough guy on a line with 2 other "skill" guys?

Is Penner what we thought (or hoped) he'd be after two years...probably not. So, I guess in those terms, he's definitely a bust but has two years and a fresh start (new coaching staff) to turn that around.

I guess that "physical/tough" guy could also be called "power forward" and I think that's what we all want Penner to be and he has shown that he can be that guy on a few occasions. I think Jacques (the guy who's going to start the season next to Horcoff and Hemsky) is going to be facing the same expectations...so, these two guys are going to be the keys to success, I think, and their contributions both in the physical and offensive departments are going to be under a microscope for the first month or two of the season.

[RomaGoth]

The NHL is better when Canadian teams are successful. Especially Edmonton, Toronto, and Montreal.

[johnnyshaka]

LOL...glad you didn't say Calgary!!

[Lathum]

LOL...glad you didn't say Calgary!!

That's his other favorite team.

[Lathum]

Looking forward to the Devils having another solid year, than giving up 2 goals in the final minute of game 7 to lose in the first round.

I wonder if Brandon Jacobs plays hockey?

[RomaGoth]

Looking forward to the Devils having another solid year, than giving up 2 goals in the final minute of game 7 to lose in the first round.

I wonder if Brandon Jacobs plays hockey?

Wouldn't he play for the Rangers?

[Lathum]

Wouldn't he play for the Rangers?

No, Giants play in New Jersey.

[RomaGoth]

No, Giants play in New Jersey.

Yeah, and I still find it funny that they are called the NY Giants (just like the NY Jets).

[Lathum]

Yeah, and I still find it funny that they are called the NY Giants (just like the NY Jets).

Statue of Liberty is also in Jersey, but yet again, we get shafted.

[RomaGoth]

Statue of Liberty is also in Jersey, but yet again, we get shafted.

I blame it on the French.

[claphamsa]

GO AVS!!!!!

[Pumpy Tudors]

The Devils and Ducks play against each other on my birthday this year (November 11). The Niedermayer brothers will be competing against each other for the first time in years. I'm looking forward to it, as I was always used to cheering for Scott.

Then again, Rob may get waived by the Devils long before November comes around. I don't really expect a whole lot out of him.

[RomaGoth]

The Devils and Ducks play against each other on my birthday this year (November 11). The Niedermayer brothers will be competing against each other for the first time in years. I'm looking forward to it, as I was always used to cheering for Scott.

Then again, Rob may get waived by the Devils long before November comes around. I don't really expect a whole lot out of him.

Meh, maybe Colin White will get hurt and Rob will have to fill in for him on the blueline. :D

[Pumpy Tudors]

Meh, maybe Colin White will get hurt and Rob will have to fill in for him on the blueline. :D
Wow, it's like going from drinking battery acid to drinking slightly diluted battery acid.

[RomaGoth]

Wow, it's like going from drinking battery acid to drinking slightly diluted battery acid.

There's a difference?

[TurnerONU22]

Jackets make a trade, acquiring D Anton Stralman from Calgary for a 3rd Rd Pick.

Anybody know much about him? All I've read is that he's still young and has a right handed shot, something the Jackets sorely need.

[Suburban Rhythm]

Season hasn't started yet...and Ticketmaster (with an assist from the Pens) pissing me off!

I've always had 2 seats. The row I am in, begins with seat 2. I was sold seats 3 and 4 from the beginning, in 2004. It worked out pretty well, once we started taking our daughter to games. Usually that single wasn't sold, I'd slide down, she sat in the middle.

Fast forward a couple years, to where she needed her own ticket (3 and under free). I'd buy that seat separate as needed, my son was young enough to not need his own seat.

Now this season-- several factors: both kids needing their own seats, promotion at work, new bldg opening next year, I got 4 seats.
Seats 2 - 5.

Last week all the tickets arrive. Great.

I assume most other teams also have this Ticketmaster Exchange program, where you can sell your tickets via the web, TM credits your account, as well as charges a fee to the buyer.

I go in to check out my seats, and they are listed as follows:

Seat 2
___________________

Seat 3
Seat 4
___________________

Seat 5

Basically, I can not sell all 4 together. I can sell 3 and 4 together. And 2 as a single. And 5 as a single.

So I spent about an hour on the phone with someone from the Pens ticket office trying to get this fixed. They are saying that since I bought 2 and 5 separate, they are listed separate.

Yet, somehow, I received all 4 sets in the same package via Fed Ex last week. So I asked them to send me each of those two seats, 2 and 5, separately, in their own envelopes. They questioned why, since I already had the tickets. My reasoning is I am being told they are separate. She says "But they are all going to the same address"

FUCKING EXACTLY!!!!

I know it's not this woman's fault...it's the way TM coded them. But, Jesus Christ, FIX IT!

[/rant off]

Anyway...once I get past that, I am excited to see a Cup title defense. Lineup is pretty much set:

Kunitz - Crosby - Guerin
Fedotenko - Malkin - Kennedy
Cooke - Staal - Dupuis/Conner
Rupp - Adams - Godard/Conner/Dupuis

Orpik - Gonchar
Letang - Eaton
Goligoski - McKee

Fleury
Johnson

Tyler Kennedy pretty much wrapped up the job opposite Fedotenko on Malkin's line. Talbout is out thru November, and none of the 1st year guys grabbed the spot.

They signed Chris Conner from Dallas in the summer, and he's played really well in the preseason. He and Dupuis might split time, or both dress games that Godard doesn't.

[Suburban Rhythm]

Penguins make a pair of minor moves yesterday and today, but it makes tons of sense.

Martin Skoula signed for 1 year, $575K. He'll be the #7 guy. Shero has always made sure to have enough depth on the blue line to make it through the season.

Skoula had been in Florida and Columbus on tryouts during camps, cut last week by the Jackets.

With guys like Mark Eaton and Jay McKee who have some injury history, they have a solid cheap veteran in place now.

Also, they signed Ryan Bayda to a 1 year deal, 2 way, $500K. He'll probably stick around as the 13th forward for now, and gives them another guy to fit into the bottom 6, especially when Godard sits.

[JetsIn06]

I just signed up for the NHL GameCenter thing and will now get all of the regular season games.

This is literally my first time following hockey. I've always liked it, but it's never on TV so I never got a chance to follow. This should really help a lot.

My biggest issue: I think I'm a Coyotes fan. :banghead:

This always happens...I get a sports game, pick a shitty team to play as, learn all of their players, and then become a fan.

Me and the Coyotes go back to NHL98.

[Suburban Rhythm]

Handful of other moves today

Some serviceable guys waived-

Brad Lukowich
Randy Jones (Dr Sak should be pleased)
Adam Hall
Chris Bourque
Possibly Matt Lashoff from Tampa

Rob Schremp waived by Oilers, already claimed by the Isles

Also, Robert Lang signs with Phoenix (there you go Jets a reason to, er, cheer) pending a physical.
Atlanta signs Max Afinogenov.

[lynchjm24]

I just signed up for the NHL GameCenter thing and will now get all of the regular season games.

This is literally my first time following hockey. I've always liked it, but it's never on TV so I never got a chance to follow. This should really help a lot.

My biggest issue: I think I'm a Coyotes fan. :banghead:

This always happens...I get a sports game, pick a shitty team to play as, learn all of their players, and then become a fan.

Me and the Coyotes go back to NHL98.

Your name is Jetsin06. It only makes sense that you like the Coyotes.

The NHL starts on Oct 1st? Yikes. Someone send me a PM if they ever move the southern teams back north.

[RomaGoth]

I just signed up for the NHL GameCenter thing and will now get all of the regular season games.

This is literally my first time following hockey. I've always liked it, but it's never on TV so I never got a chance to follow. This should really help a lot.

My biggest issue: I think I'm a Coyotes fan. :banghead:

This always happens...I get a sports game, pick a shitty team to play as, learn all of their players, and then become a fan.

Me and the Coyotes go back to NHL98.

Here, let me help you with that. ;)

<object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/DtZSPHMDKg8&hl=en&fs=1&"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/DtZSPHMDKg8&hl=en&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object>

[Galaxy]

Go Sabres!

They have three guys to let go by tomorrow (could be less depending on how they handle the injuries to Adam Mair and Toni Lydman). The big questions will be if they keep rookies Tim Kennedy, who was one of the best players in the last two or three pre-season games, and defensemen Tyler Myers, who either has to return to the WHL or stay with the Sabres. Myers is certainly causing a lot of talk due to his sheer potential (6'7.5'' frame, extremely physical, and stellar performance last year in the WHL and world juniors).

[JetsIn06]

Your name is Jetsin06. It only makes sense that you like the Coyotes.

Heh...I thought the same thing!

[Honolulu_Blue]

Handful of other moves today

Some serviceable guys waived-

Randy Jones (Dr Sak should be pleased)

I had no idea Randy Jones was making something like $3 million a year. That's crazy. That goes back to our earlier conversation in the off-season thread about a pay structure for your defense. Now, granted, at the time I imagine the Flyers thought Jones would be a 3rd/4th defensemen, but you can't be paying your 5th or 6th guy $3 million, not even close.

[Suburban Rhythm]

I had no idea Randy Jones was making something like $3 million a year. That's crazy. That goes back to our earlier conversation in the off-season thread about a pay structure for your defense. Now, granted, at the time I imagine the Flyers thought Jones would be a 3rd/4th defensemen, but you can't be paying your 5th or 6th guy $3 million, not even close.

Yeah...I think most would agree Carle is a better player than Jones, but offer a similar skill set. So they were paying Carle like $3.5 and Jones $2.75-- and heading into the year, they would be together on the 3rd pair (Sak can correct me on that, I am assuming Parent, Coburn, Timonen and Pronger were set in the top 4).

[Dr. Sak]

Yeah Randy Jones was basically going to be a 3rd pairing guy. He had hip surgery last year and hasn't really recovered since. He thought the offseason rest was going to help but he had a really bad preseason and with JVR and Mika Pyorala stepping up, Jones became expendable.

[bbor]

I have great news!!

My wife is working late on Thursday......that means a full night of NHL hockey for me!!!!!!!!!!

O happy day

[Dr. Sak]

Sundin retries...

http://www.tsn.ca/nhl/story/?id=293154

[RomaGoth]

Sundin retries...

http://www.tsn.ca/nhl/story/?id=293154

I like how he waits until a day before the season starts. Guess nobody wants to pay him this time around.

[Travis]

So when Pat Quinn was brought in as the Oilers coach, I think a lot of the fans were hoping for change. Now I never hid the fact that I thought MacT's time here was done quite a while ago, but I do appreciate the poetic justice that leaves Quinn with largely the same player group to utilize this season so that there may be some insight gained into how much of the blame should fall on the (former) coach, the players and/or the front office.

That said, back to the changes. I had hoped we might start the season with Horcoff on the 3rd line in 5 on 5 situations, plugged into a defensive role, logging a ton of PK time and taking important defensive zone face offs, never to be heard of on the PP. Now how he'll be used on special teams is still up for debate, but he'll start the season as the #1 center skating on a line with Hemsky and JF Jacques who has excelled as a scorer in the minors but failed miserably as a 4th line banger any time MacT brought him up.

Instead, we see another MacT favorite demoted from the 2nd line to the 4th (at least to start the season) in Sam Gagner. Obviously things can change by the time the puck is dropped but he is currently slated to skate on a line with Zach "the fighter formerly known as Huggybear" Stortini and the captain, Ethan Moreau. How he'll take to this demotion and how he'll evolve his game given that his line mates aren't exactly known for the offensive prowess, who knows.

Other changes, well, Gilbert Brule cracks the lineup as does Ryan Stone. Robert Nilsson is on the outside looking in while Fernando Pisani is likely going to be on the IR for quite some time. Andrew Cogliano has been ousted from the center position and will roam on the wing while the one real new addition up front, Mike Comrie, will play on a line with Dustin Penner and Patrick O'Sullivan.

It's going to be an interesting start to the season in Edmonton. I'm assuming there'll be some line blending and adjusting of roles depending on who starts hot, but given such a common player base to what MacT had, the combinations and roles players are being asked to play already show a very different flavor. This was a team widely regarded as a challenger to the NW Division title prior to last season, be interesting to see if they can deliver on those aspirations this season.

[bhlloy]

SR - I read that Carle was going to be on the top pairing with Pronger. I hope that's the case seeing as I just drafted him in the Fantasy thread for that very reason.

[Dr. Sak]

Carle as been playing along side Pronger all preseason.

[RomaGoth]

So when Pat Quinn was brought in as the Oilers coach, I think a lot of the fans were hoping for change. Now I never hid the fact that I thought MacT's time here was done quite a while ago, but I do appreciate the poetic justice that leaves Quinn with largely the same player group to utilize this season so that there may be some insight gained into how much of the blame should fall on the (former) coach, the players and/or the front office.

That said, back to the changes. I had hoped we might start the season with Horcoff on the 3rd line in 5 on 5 situations, plugged into a defensive role, logging a ton of PK time and taking important defensive zone face offs, never to be heard of on the PP. Now how he'll be used on special teams is still up for debate, but he'll start the season as the #1 center skating on a line with Hemsky and JF Jacques who has excelled as a scorer in the minors but failed miserably as a 4th line banger any time MacT brought him up.

Instead, we see another MacT favorite demoted from the 2nd line to the 4th (at least to start the season) in Sam Gagner. Obviously things can change by the time the puck is dropped but he is currently slated to skate on a line with Zach "the fighter formerly known as Huggybear" Stortini and the captain, Ethan Moreau. How he'll take to this demotion and how he'll evolve his game given that his line mates aren't exactly known for the offensive prowess, who knows.

Other changes, well, Gilbert Brule cracks the lineup as does Ryan Stone. Robert Nilsson is on the outside looking in while Fernando Pisani is likely going to be on the IR for quite some time. Andrew Cogliano has been ousted from the center position and will roam on the wing while the one real new addition up front, Mike Comrie, will play on a line with Dustin Penner and Patrick O'Sullivan.

It's going to be an interesting start to the season in Edmonton. I'm assuming there'll be some line blending and adjusting of roles depending on who starts hot, but given such a common player base to what MacT had, the combinations and roles players are being asked to play already show a very different flavor. This was a team widely regarded as a challenger to the NW Division title prior to last season, be interesting to see if they can deliver on those aspirations this season.

Gagne could have a breakout season, assuming he gets off that 4th line.

[Travis]

A lot of people have been high on Gagner since he came in, I'm just waiting to see it myself. I'm just as reserved about Eberle (at least in regards to his label as a sniper, not his skating/ability to create plays) right now.

I really do hope that Gagner flourishes and it will hopefully help that while there is pressure on the team, he's not necessarily being as pressured to be the catalyst that he seemed to be a season or two ago. He's had some good stretches but right now still is a perimeter player and really needs to learn how to cut to the middle of the offensive zone a lot better and be willing to do so. He also needs to trust his abilities a bit more as one of his big down falls seems to be second guessing/pausing a bit too much with the puck at times before pulling the trigger. Given the other skill options on the team right now, he'll have a chance to work through his issues, and it'll be interesting to see how many PP chances he gets to do that when there are so many other options.

[Honolulu_Blue]

So when Pat Quinn was brought in as the Oilers coach, I think a lot of the fans were hoping for change. Now I never hid the fact that I thought MacT's time here was done quite a while ago, but I do appreciate the poetic justice that leaves Quinn with largely the same player group to utilize this season so that there may be some insight gained into how much of the blame should fall on the (former) coach, the players and/or the front office.

That said, back to the changes. I had hoped we might start the season with Horcoff on the 3rd line in 5 on 5 situations, plugged into a defensive role, logging a ton of PK time and taking important defensive zone face offs, never to be heard of on the PP. Now how he'll be used on special teams is still up for debate, but he'll start the season as the #1 center skating on a line with Hemsky and JF Jacques who has excelled as a scorer in the minors but failed miserably as a 4th line banger any time MacT brought him up.

Instead, we see another MacT favorite demoted from the 2nd line to the 4th (at least to start the season) in Sam Gagner. Obviously things can change by the time the puck is dropped but he is currently slated to skate on a line with Zach "the fighter formerly known as Huggybear" Stortini and the captain, Ethan Moreau. How he'll take to this demotion and how he'll evolve his game given that his line mates aren't exactly known for the offensive prowess, who knows.

Other changes, well, Gilbert Brule cracks the lineup as does Ryan Stone. Robert Nilsson is on the outside looking in while Fernando Pisani is likely going to be on the IR for quite some time. Andrew Cogliano has been ousted from the center position and will roam on the wing while the one real new addition up front, Mike Comrie, will play on a line with Dustin Penner and Patrick O'Sullivan.

It's going to be an interesting start to the season in Edmonton. I'm assuming there'll be some line blending and adjusting of roles depending on who starts hot, but given such a common player base to what MacT had, the combinations and roles players are being asked to play already show a very different flavor. This was a team widely regarded as a challenger to the NW Division title prior to last season, be interesting to see if they can deliver on those aspirations this season.

The strength of the Oilers will have to be their defense and goaltending. I think Khabibuhlin will have to play very well for the team to be successful. Based on past experience, that is a risky proposition.

While the forward ranks are pretty solid and balance, there's really no line or even player that would really scare me if I was the opposition. I can see the wisdom in spreading the talent over all four lines, since there is no one line to shut down, but the flipside of that is that other than a line getting hot here and there there is no line that really looks like it can generate goals on a consistent basis. After Hemsky is there any forward who would be considered a first line forward on any of last year's playoff teams? I'm not sure. I really haven't seen too much out of most of these guys, so it will be interesting to see how it all comes to together, especially under the new coaching regime.

[johnnyshaka]

After Hemsky is there any forward who would be considered a first line forward on any of last year's playoff teams? I'm not sure. I really haven't seen too much out of most of these guys, so it will be interesting to see how it all comes to together, especially under the new coaching regime.

I think that's why Quinn has taken the approach he's taken..."we don't have a real first line but we've got three 2nd lines, instead." A little unorthodox but I guess he's just trying to make his brand of lemonade out of the lemons he's been given. We'll see how it tastes.

[Honolulu_Blue]

I think that's why Quinn has taken the approach he's taken..."we don't have a real first line but we've got three 2nd lines, instead." A little unorthodox but I guess he's just trying to make his brand of lemonade out of the lemons he's been given. We'll see how it tastes.

Yeah, I guess you have to do something. The Oilers lack a truly deadly offensive forward and don't really seem to have that many really good defensive forwards either. So, they can't form a potent scoring line or a good shutdown line, so they are making 4 lines that can kinda-sorta do a little bit of both.

I guess the plan is to try and nibble teams to death. Interesting...

[RomaGoth]

It seems like the Oilers have had this type of team for a long, long time now. A lot of young talent, most of which doesn't really turn into what they were hoping for, and subsequently they are a perennial middle of the pack team. I think they need a different approach, just not sure Quinn is the answer.

[Travis]

I think the plan is to play an up tempo style to wear teams down and force mistakes. There is a ton of skill in the lineup (Hemsky, Gagner, Comrie, O'Sullivan, Brule, Penner, Cogliano) up front and as I've discussed with John, I really believe the biggest thing they need up front this year is to out skate the opposition. Draw penalties instead of taking the lazy one's that have plagued them over the past few years (slashes and hooking calls). Their PP has the players to be top 10, may not end up there, but the potential is there. Not sure if you can say the same about the PK so just best to avoid having that unit out there as much as possible.

They need to turn every game into a 60 minute battle for puck possession and just not give their opposition a chance to breath. There are a lot of young guys fighting for promotions (Cogs, Gagner, Brule), guys a bit older who are fighting to prove them belong in the NHL (Brule again, Stone, Jacques) and hopefully a few out to prove that last season wasn't a true reflection of their abilities (Penner, Moreau, Gagner). If Quinn can cultivate that hunger and find some guys who work well together, a true top line will emerge by the end of the season.

And HB, I fully agree with your diagnosis above in regards to the Oilers pushing for 8th place and a playoff spot. If they want to contend for home ice and the NW title, they absolutely need some of these forwards to take that next step and for very few of them to experience any form of regression. That said, I do like the insurance policy they have for Khabibulin. Deslauriers looked great early last season when he was getting something closer to regular playing time. Hopefully this year he won't get forgotten about for months at a time again.

[Suburban Rhythm]

SR - I read that Carle was going to be on the top pairing with Pronger. I hope that's the case seeing as I just drafted him in the Fantasy thread for that very reason.

Carle as been playing along side Pronger all preseason.

I'll defer to the Dr on this one.

But, to me...doesn't make very much sense. Is Parent the guy on the 3rd pair now? With Timo and Coburn the other pair?

Seems to me like they are trying to spread these guys out to have a solid player on every pair, rather than two really good pairs and a 3rd pairing that will only get 12-14 mins a game.

Why not pair Parent with Pronger, Timo and Coburn, Carle and ??? (Tollefson? Syvret?), and those top two pairs play 22-24 mins a piece, Carle sees time on the PP, and the 3rd pair takes about 10 shifts together the entire game.

[bhlloy]

Because then I'd have completely wasted a fantasy pick on a defenseman that I didn't really need?

Seriously, has Carle really fallen off so much that he's considered a third pairing guy now? There was a time with SJ when he was really highly regarded IIRC and he's the perfect type of player to pair with Pronger.

[Pyser]

i guess this is just for directv people, but i read a tip that they were giving good deal to anyone calling to complain about the lack of versus this year

its true. they gave me center ice for free this year. i spoke to the retention department.

[boberot]

Sabres pretty much stand pat after two disappointing seasons.

Gotta hope the young'uns step up and some of the vets stay healthy and return to the form many of them had three years ago.

Fans will be calling for somebody's head if they don't hit the postseason this year.

[RomaGoth]

i guess this is just for directv people, but i read a tip that they were giving good deal to anyone calling to complain about the lack of versus this year

its true. they gave me center ice for free this year. i spoke to the retention department.

Wow, nice. Way to step up DirectTv!

[Balldog]

Might have to give these bozos a call.

[Dr. Sak]

I see Sbisa made the Ducks roster. He's gonna be a good one.

[NoSkillz]

Sabres pretty much stand pat after two disappointing seasons.

Gotta hope the young'uns step up and some of the vets stay healthy and return to the form many of them had three years ago.

Fans will be calling for somebody's head if they don't hit the postseason this year.

I just hope Tyler Myers gets a real shot at sticking with the club. Gosh, outside of Brian Campbell (who was a mid-round pick), the Sabres haven't had a defenseman they drafted this highly-touted since Phil Housley. And that's over 25 years ago!

I think the Sabres will surprise some pundits this year, many of whom seem to think that inactivity in free agency equals doom in the regular season. As we've seen over the years from teams like the Rangers and the Leafs, overpaying players past their prime isn't a recipe for success. I mean *really*, is Jeff Finger that much better than Ian White?

I see them once again fighting for one of the last three playoff spots. I think they have a ceiling of second in the division, with Boston seemingly the class of the Northeast. Toronto is much improved and scare me much more than the Montreal midgets and the Sens but only if the Leafs brass finally admit that Toskala is just another in the long line of goaltending busts for the club.

That all said, an injury to Ryan Miller would be catastrophic...Patick Lalime is not an NHL quality keeper anymore. I very much worry about the backup goaltending situation. Keeping Tim Connolly healthy is also of utmost importance, although the emergence of Buffalo native Tim Kennedy is a positive development. Kennedy made the team out of camp but will have to score points early and often if he intends to stick.

The Sabres have the makings of two quality scoring lines with Thomas Vanek, Derek Roy, Drew Stafford, Connolly and Jason Pominville in the top six. Clarke MacArthur is currently the second line left winger after a great training camp but he'll need to be much more consistent if he intends to maintain that lofty status. Kennedy or mighty midget Nathan Gerbe, who was just sent down to the AHL after winning the rookie of the year in that league last year, can step into top six roles if necessary.

The checking line is excellent: Jochen Hecht (who had a horrific year last year but is in a much better role as a third liner in 09/10), Paul Gaustad and Mike 'Stonehands' Grier should be a great shutdown trio although I'm sure I'll be screaming at Grier all year for missing empty net after empty net.

The fourth line is full of energy and pests, with overacheiver Matt Ellis centering Adam Mair (when healthy) and Patrick Kaleta (perhaps one of the most hated players in the league).

The defense is a question mark - who will quarterback the powerplay after the departure of Jaro Spacek? Likely sophomore Chris Butler, who impressed in a half season as a rookie. Craig Rivet, newcomer Steve Montador and Myers will likely get time as well early in the season. Henrik Tallinder, who two years ago likely was the best d-man on the team, will have to fight to keep a spot in the lineup...he had a rotten camp and is coming off a bad season.

If I were a betting man, and I am, I'd bet on the Sabres finishing around 8th and making the postseason but again, they need to keep Miller healthy AND get wins out of Lalime when he plays, especially in an Olympic year when Miller will need a bit of rest.

[boberot]

Great summary, 'Skillz.

I really see the second line and the D being all important this year. This is the first time in a long time I've come into a season not really having much idea of what to expect out of the blueliners. The second line guys -- Staff, Timmy, Mac -- all have something to prove this year. If they all live up to their upside [and stay healthy], then we can be pretty dangerous.

I like the extra grit and leadership this year -- that alone might pay dividends.

Elsewhere in the division, I totally agree that Toronto is becoming a more scary prospect than Montreal and that we're all looking up at Boston, but I wouldn't be shocked if Ottawa has a bounce-back year. I think Leclair has the skills to be a very solid G.

[Honolulu_Blue]

I am looking forward to the Toronto/Montreal game tonight. Not only do I enjoy the rivalry, but the match up between the big, truculent Leafs and the wee, little Canadiens is something that I've really been interested in watching. Montreal's big, vegan-yogi tough guy could really have his hands full.

[Sublime 2]

Go Go Black & Gold!

I'm wicked excited for the season. I don't see the B's ending the season first in the east again, but no lower than fourth either. I think Thomas will fall a little back to Earth, and the offense will sputter a bit. But overall I think this team is better suited for the playoffs than lat year's version.

[Dr. Sak]

I'll defer to the Dr on this one.

But, to me...doesn't make very much sense. Is Parent the guy on the 3rd pair now? With Timo and Coburn the other pair?

Seems to me like they are trying to spread these guys out to have a solid player on every pair, rather than two really good pairs and a 3rd pairing that will only get 12-14 mins a game.

Why not pair Parent with Pronger, Timo and Coburn, Carle and ??? (Tollefson? Syvret?), and those top two pairs play 22-24 mins a piece, Carle sees time on the PP, and the 3rd pair takes about 10 shifts together the entire game.

When have the Flyers done anything that has made sense?

[Pumpy Tudors]

The fourth line is full of energy and pests, with overacheiver Matt Ellis centering Adam Mair (when healthy) and Patrick Kaleta (perhaps one of the most hated players in the league).
No real comment about the Sabres, but this makes me think of how Patrick Kaleta's NHL career started. His very first game was that comic experience against Ottawa a couple of years ago, the game where the Senators sent out Spezza, Comrie, and Heatley, and then Lindy Ruff countered with his tough guys. Kaleta is the guy who was matched up with Heatley at the faceoff, right before Heatley ran like a girl. That's what I'll always remember about Patrick Kaleta.

[Draft Dodger]

the Avs are retiring Joe Sakic's jersey tonight.

[NoSkillz]

No real comment about the Sabres, but this makes me think of how Patrick Kaleta's NHL career started. His very first game was that comic experience against Ottawa a couple of years ago, the game where the Senators sent out Spezza, Comrie, and Heatley, and then Lindy Ruff countered with his tough guys. Kaleta is the guy who was matched up with Heatley at the faceoff, right before Heatley ran like a girl. That's what I'll always remember about Patrick Kaleta.

Ahhh, that brings back fond memories! I was at that game and it was right after Chris Neil knocked the crap out of Chris Drury with a cheapshot hit. Drew Stafford (a rookie that year) went after Neil then Ruff sent out Peters, Mair and Kaleta against the Spezza line.

Heatley was skating for his life as Spezza took a beating from Mair then of course, the goalies got into it before Peters and Ray Emery went toe to toe.

I think the Sabres finished the game with 13 skaters but won the game 6-5 or something. One of the greatest games I've seen in person...that building was ROCKING that night.

[Chief Rum]

Is that the one where Emery was wierdly smiling as he got into the fight?

Whatever fight that was, that's when I knew Emery wasn't all there. :)

[Dr. Sak]

Here are the Flyers Line combos to start the season:

Gagne-Richards-Pyorala
Hartnell-Carter-Briere
JVR-Powe-Giroux
Dan Carcillo-Blair Betts-IIan Laperriere.

Pronger-Carle
Timonen-Coburn
Parent-Syvret

[bbor]

Woohoo Briere on RW....that helps my pool team big time :)

[NoSkillz]

Is that the one where Emery was wierdly smiling as he got into the fight?

Whatever fight that was, that's when I knew Emery wasn't all there. :)

Yup, that was the one. He dispatched poor Marty Biron in about three seconds then Peters said "how about you try someone your own size?". Emery, who likes to box on the side, was more than willing to accommodate. :)

[Dr. Sak]

I'm hearing that Shanny has left the Devils and will retire.

[RomaGoth]

I'm hearing that Shanny has left the Devils and will retire.

He just signed with them less than a month ago, didn't he? I wonder if he has a problem with Lemaire....

[Dr. Sak]

He just signed with them less than a month ago, didn't he? I wonder if he has a problem with Lemaire....

They had an agreement before the season that if he wasn't on the top 3 lines, he would walk away.

[JPhillips]

Love this Nylander cartoon.

http://cdn0.sbnation.com/entry_photo_images/123197/catfud92_large.jpg

[bbor]

4.5 hours till puck drop...woohoo!

[samifan24]

Go Go Black & Gold!

I'm wicked excited for the season. I don't see the B's ending the season first in the east again, but no lower than fourth either. I think Thomas will fall a little back to Earth, and the offense will sputter a bit. But overall I think this team is better suited for the playoffs than lat year's version.

Really? I'm not sure I agree. As much as I didn't like his attitude Kessel was still a very good goal scorer and, although Sturm is a good player he is injury prone and is hardly a sure thing. I think in order for the Bruins to really step it up they will need guys like Sturm and Derek Morris to play very well and Wheeler to put in a full season's worth of production. I think this year's team will experience an inevitable dropoff from last year's team, especially in the scoring department, and so I'm not sure I see them as being better suited for a playoff run. Still I hope they prove the ESPN analysts wrong: every analyst chose Boston to win their division but not even advance to the Eastern Conference finals.

[DeToxRox]

Halfway through the first in Toronto and there have been 2 fights.

And Gionta just buries one seconds after a Komisarek penalty.

[DeToxRox]

And Toronto ties it up on a nice forecheck from Hagman. He gets it out to Ponikarovsky who buries it from the slot.

[bbor]

Halfway through the first in Montreal and there have been 2 fights.

And Gionta just buries one seconds after a Komisarek penalty.

You mean in Toronto :)

[DeToxRox]

You mean in Toronto :)

Ha yes. I have to edit. I blame it on Brian Burke though.

[bbor]

Ha yes. I have to edit. I blame it on Brian Burke though.

Don't make him get truculant on your ass.

[DeToxRox]

Another dumb Komisarek penalty leads to a Montreal PPG to tie it up with 4 minutes left.

[RomaGoth]

After watching parts of three games tonight (haven't watched the Calgary/Vancouver game), I have a few thoughts.

1. Toronto looked rather slow and out of sync, and Montreal was all over the ice, yet the Leafs severely outshot them. Not sure how that happened exactly.

2. Nabakov looks terrible for the Sharks. Just terrible.

3. Tim Thomas also did not look very good.

4. Ovechkin leads the league in goals and probably will all season.

So far, the goaltending has looked quite ordinary, even outright bad in some instances. I am looking for it to stabilize as the season wears on. Hopefully.

[bbor]

So far, the goaltending has looked quite ordinary, even outright bad in some instances. I am looking for it to stabilize as the season wears on. Hopefully

And Osgood has'nt even played yet :D

[RomaGoth]

So far, the goaltending has looked quite ordinary, even outright bad in some instances. I am looking for it to stabilize as the season wears on. Hopefully

And Osgood has'nt even played yet :D

Yeah, I was thinking about that as I typed it. Nabakov, Luongo, Kiprusoff, all look awful. Maybe this is Osgood's year to win the Vezina. :D

[Draft Dodger]

So far, the goaltending has looked quite ordinary, even outright bad in some instances. I am looking for it to stabilize as the season wears on. Hopefully

And Osgood has'nt even played yet :D

Emery either

[bbor]

I get the award for teh first major injury to my fantasy team as Andrei Markov is out for 2 to 3 months......I knew i should never have drafted an f'n Hab.

[RomaGoth]

I get the award for teh first major injury to my fantasy team as Andrei Markov is out for 2 to 3 months......I knew i should never have drafted an f'n Hab.

That sucks. Kessel is out for me until November, but that pales in comparison to your situation.

[Dr. Sak]

I gotta admit the crowd singing O' Canada at the start of the Toronto/Montreal game gave me goose bumps. Really cool!

[Pumpy Tudors]

So I didn't get to watch a LOT of hockey last night, but what's the deal with this Gionta guy for Montreal? He actually scored a goal? It seems like ages since I saw a guy named Gionta score a goal. So confusing.

In other news, I hear that Lemaire flipped a coin to decide who'd play wing on the second line in New Jersey. My wife won the coin toss, so Shanahan left. Wifey will be wearing #44 in honor of Mike Peluso's hair tomorrow night. I predict that she'll score 3 goals this season, which should put her third on the team behind Parise and Brodeur.

Go Devils.

[RomaGoth]

So I didn't get to watch a LOT of hockey last night, but what's the deal with this Gionta guy for Montreal? He actually scored a goal? It seems like ages since I saw a guy named Gionta score a goal. So confusing.

In other news, I hear that Lemaire flipped a coin to decide who'd play wing on the second line in New Jersey. My wife won the coin toss, so Shanahan left. Wifey will be wearing #44 in honor of Mike Peluso's hair tomorrow night. I predict that she'll score 3 goals this season, which should put her third on the team behind Parise and Brodeur.

Go Devils.

You never disappoint, Pumpy.

[Pumpy Tudors]

While I'm in this thread, I'd like to borrow bbor's toothbrush for about an hour.

[bbor]

So I didn't get to watch a LOT of hockey last night, but what's the deal with this Gionta guy for Montreal? He actually scored a goal? It seems like ages since I saw a guy named Gionta score a goal. So confusing.

In other news, I hear that Lemaire flipped a coin to decide who'd play wing on the second line in New Jersey. My wife won the coin toss, so Shanahan left. Wifey will be wearing #44 in honor of Mike Peluso's hair tomorrow night. I predict that she'll score 3 goals this season, which should put her third on the team behind Parise and Brodeur.

Go Devils.

LOL

[bbor]

While I'm in this thread, I'd like to borrow bbor's toothbrush for about an hour.

hmmm.....
It is a 'Reach" toothbrush:D

[Pumpy Tudors]

hmmm.....
It is a 'Reach" toothbrush:D
I've got the Nerf football ready to go.

[DeToxRox]

Bad news for the Hab. Andrei Markov is out 4 months with a lacerated tendon in his ankle.

[RomaGoth]

Blackhawks lose their first game in a shootout to Florida. I would be lying if I didn't admit that I like this.

[DeToxRox]

Osgood is pretty miserable, yeesh. Not all his fault as the D didn't do much to help him out so far but he has looked all out of sorts since the first preseason game.

[RomaGoth]

Osgood is pretty miserable, yeesh. Not all his fault as the D didn't do much to help him out so far but he has looked all out of sorts since the first preseason game.

4 goals already, and they blew a 3-1 lead. Yikes. :(

[Wolfpack]

Carolina couldn't hit the broad side of a barn in a 2-0 loss at home to Philly tonight. Emery made some good saves for Philly, but we had so many badly-off-target shots it was laughable. 0-for-8 on the PP, too. At least that picked up where it left off in the playoffs.

[RomaGoth]

Cleary scores just 2 minutes in....hopefully today will have a better outcome.

[DeToxRox]

Cleary scores again, and it's 3-0.

EDIT: No goal.

[RomaGoth]

I know it's early, but this team just doesn't look like they have the same drive as in past seasons. Goaltending could be a problem too. *shrug*

[JetsIn06]

Pumped about the Coyotes-Kings game tonight!

[Young Drachma]

Pumped about the Coyotes-Kings game tonight!

Are you a Yotes fan because they "used" to be the Jets? ;)

[JetsIn06]

Are you a Yotes fan because they "used" to be the Jets? ;)

Haha....that does reinforce my fan-hood, but it's mostly because I randomly decided to play as them way back in NHL98 for the PC. I kept playing as them each year because I knew the players.

To be completely honest though, this year is my first real attempt to follow the NHL. I've always loved hockey. I played it as a kid, but I've never really followed a team before and I thought I'd start now.

[bbor]

Monster in for the Leafs....Toskula pulled.

[JonInMiddleGA]

4-1 Thrashers over Tampa late in the 2nd period. 10 different players with at least 1 point for Atlanta, including goals from two D-men.

[samifan24]

This Bruins game is a blast. 6-1 Bruins in the second intermission. 12 different Bruins with points. Lucic beat the crap out of Ryan Harrison in a fight. Ward chased from the game.

[JonInMiddleGA]

St. Louis gets his 2nd, Atlanta lead cut to 4-2 after two.

[Pyser]

uh, what the hell is going on. emery looks....good? like, real good.

[JonInMiddleGA]

Tampa scores again, now 4-3 Atlanta with 12 mins left.

[RomaGoth]

This Bruins game is a blast. 6-1 Bruins in the second intermission. 12 different Bruins with points. Lucic beat the crap out of Ryan Harrison in a fight. Ward chased from the game.

Carolina looks terrible so far this year.

[JonInMiddleGA]

Atlanta comes back with a pair in about 90 secs, back up 6-3 under 7 mins to play.

[Dr. Sak]

uh, what the hell is going on. emery looks....good? like, real good.

The one save he made today was just sick.

[Sublime 2]

This Bruins game is a blast. 6-1 Bruins in the second intermission. 12 different Bruins with points. Lucic beat the crap out of Ryan Harrison in a fight. Ward chased from the game.

Great, great game after the stinker they laid on Thursday!

Cole's knee looked bad...hope the guy is ok.

[samifan24]

Yeah Erik Cole is a good player. I hope he's ok.

[Suburban Rhythm]

I really feel for the Isles.

They had the lead on the Pens, Mark Eaton scores to tie it. Isles re take the lead 17 seconds later. Fedotenko scores of a defensman's skate to send it to OT. OT scoreless, shootout. Pens take it 2-0, 4-3 for the game.

Isles could have, and maybe should have, won that game. But they find ways to blow it.

Tavares looked pretty good. He scored his 1st, assisted on another, and had a bunch of other chances.

[johnnyshaka]

Penner, of all people, scores the Oilers first goal of the season. After one, the Oilers are down 2-1 but played a very good period. Penner has looked solid...like he wants to earn that friggin' contract.

[Suburban Rhythm]

Penner, of all people, scores the Oilers first goal of the season. After one, the Oilers are down 2-1 but played a very good period. Penner has looked solid...like he wants to earn that friggin' contract.

I read that as 'eat that friggin' contract'...which is probably because you mention Penner twice, and that makes a hell of alot more sense.

[johnnyshaka]

I read that as 'eat that friggin' contract'...which is probably because you mention Penner twice, and that makes a hell of alot more sense.

Even funnier, Penner was interviewed after the first intermission and was asked about his weight-loss in the offseason for the 1000th time and he asks the interviewer if he'd been paying attention because he's answered the question 1000 times already over the last two weeks...GOLD!

[RomaGoth]

Damn. Sam Gagner just kicked Conroy's ass.

[johnnyshaka]

Definitely like this more physical approach by the Oilers...if we don't win every night at least I'll be entertained!!

[johnnyshaka]

And Penner picks up his second point of the season...an assist on Brule's first goal of the season.

[johnnyshaka]

Ouch, that's a tough way to lose a game after playing as well as the Oilers did.

[Young Drachma]

Tavares should make the fans in Kansas City or Hamilton really happy.

[Pumpy Tudors]

The one save he made today was just sick.
He only had to make one save against the Devils, huh? Wow, they actually managed three shots in the game. That's at least four more shots than I expected from them. Go Devils!!!

[Dr. Sak]

He only had to make one save against the Devils, huh? Wow, they actually managed three shots in the game. That's at least four more shots than I expected from them. Go Devils!!!

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[RomaGoth]

He only had to make one save against the Devils, huh? Wow, they actually managed three shots in the game. That's at least four more shots than I expected from them. Go Devils!!!

Did Brodeur score?

[bronconick]

And the Sharks find their asses back and put up a dominating effort vs. the Ducks....about 5.5 months later then I would have preferred, but meh.

[Dr. Sak]

Pretty exciting game between the Flyers and Caps tonight.

[RomaGoth]

Pretty exciting game between the Flyers and Caps tonight.

Ovechkin is a monster.

[Young Drachma]

Watching the Gretzky movie on ESPN. It's good so far.

[Young Drachma]

I didn't realize Ray Emery had left the NHL for a year, I was just confused he was in Philly, but Wiki tells me all. Aah.

[Wolfpack]

Yes, it's Tampa, and yes, it took a shootout, but Carolina's finally on the board with a 2-1 win (which I guess is somewhat remarkable since Carolina has been horrid at the shootout the last few years).

[Chief Rum]

So pissed at the Ducks tonight.

If I were Carlyle, I would be tempted to healthy scratch Wiz for a couple games for the dumbass penalty in overtime. But there were so many idiocy culprits on the team that contributed to losing a 3-0 lead, we wouldn't have a team to put on the ice if we put them all on notice.

If I caught the Ducks' earned point tonight in the stands of a baseball game, I would throw it back. They didn't earn it.

[bhlloy]

I missed the last 10 minutes but I'm not surprised. No momentum at all in the third period, I said to my wife that it wouldn't be a huge shock for them to lose now after the first one went in.

What happened with Giguere, at fault for any of the goals or just unlucky.

After offseason moves and watching preseason my good feelings about this team have pretty much evaporated. Koivu is a great signing but the rest, bleh. Would really have expected Mikkelson, Festerling or Salcido to beat out Eminger and Boynton who are really fricking average or worse. And the Perry-Getzlaf-Ryan line already looks like they lost all their chemistry over the summer and are playing with no energy at all.

Eck, I guess no worse than the start to last season...

[Chief Rum]

What happened with Giguere, at fault for any of the goals or just unlucky.

Jiggy was actually pretty good for the most part. The Belanger goal that tied the score was atrocious, a long shot through the five hole, not sure where Jiggy was on that one, but he made some very good saves otherwise. He was just the victim of too many man down situations, a "blood in the water" Wild squad, and just a gawd awful penalty kill. While I am not happy about the Belanger goal, I would say he was one of the few Ducks who could skate off the ice and generally say he played about as well as he could, and that he didn't do anything to really lose the game for the team, unlike most of his sad sack teammates.

Funny you mention last season, because this game reminded me of that, before the Ducks gelled at the end. Another third period comeback, lackluster play late. The Ducks gave away so many points last year after building leads, it was downright loopy.

[Logan]

Good start so far for the Rangers. Most promising is that the young kids on defense are stepping up offensively. Del Zotto with 2 goals in the first 3 games, Gilroy notching one, Staal jumping in...

And best of all, Gaborik has managed to make it through 3 games healthy.

[bbor]

And best of all, Gaborik has managed to make it through 3 games healthy.


Jinx

[Dr. Sak]

Jinx

How about Carle with 4 assists for you last night!

[Suburban Rhythm]

How about Carle with 4 assists for you last night!

Wasn't it in the thread that I said earlier what a great idea it was to pair him with Pronger?

:redface:

[Honolulu_Blue]

It looks like Brad May has the third annual Detroit Red Wings Annual "Brad Norton Tough Guy"* award. He's trying out with the Wings and will play tonight against Toronto. He'll be an incredible long shot to make the team. He may play in Grand Rapids (if he wants to), which will inevtibly lead to a bunch of people hoping the Wings call him up throughout the season.



*Past winners include: 2006-07: Brad Norton; 2007-2008: Aaron Downey; 2008-2009: Aaron Downey/Darren McCarty.

It's official. The Wings signed Brad May to a one year deal.

[RomaGoth]

It's official. The Wings signed Brad May to a one year deal.

Where did Holland pull that cap room from?

[watravaler]

5th Annual Chicago Blackhawks prediction:

103 points...taken down in the Norris Division Finals by Detroit(I think they have the potential to make the Finals/win a Cup, but I see it happening towards the end of this 5-10 year window, and it certainly will not happen with Huet between the pipes.)

----------------

The offense should be insane, if not reckless at times, but it's so much better than the crap the Wirtz family tossed out on the ice from '97 to '07

----------------

Detroit v Chicago tonight...buckle up boys!

[Honolulu_Blue]

Where did Holland pull that cap room from?

So long as he's in Grand Rapids it wont count against the cap. They may also still have a little room due to Lilja's injury situation.

[RomaGoth]

5th Annual Chicago Blackhawks prediction:

103 points...taken down in the Norris Division Finals by Detroit(I think they have the potential to make the Finals/win a Cup, but I see it happening towards the end of this 5-10 year window, and it certainly will not happen with Huet between the pipes.)

I am not positive they have a 5-10 year window such as you are predicting. Even next season, the Hawks are going to have some serious cap problems. I hope they remain competitive, it is much more fun as a Wings fan having a decent rival. :)

[Dr. Sak]

Wasn't it in the thread that I said earlier what a great idea it was to pair him with Pronger?

:redface:

3 games into this season and the best player has been Matt Carle. He's really improved from last year and him being paired with Pronger allows him to take more chances in the offensive zone. His play in his own end has improved also.

Emery gave up 5 goals but the defense left him out to dry on 3 of them. I am cautiously optimistic with him. Losing Betts for a month will hurt because that 4th line is actually decent. Betts and Laperrier are good on the PK and eat minutes that Richards and Carter had to last year. That'll make those two fresher.

We'll see how much they've improved again tonight. In my mind the Pens are still the team to beat in the East.

[Sublime 2]

Good start so far for the Rangers. Most promising is that the young kids on defense are stepping up offensively. Del Zotto with 2 goals in the first 3 games, Gilroy notching one, Staal jumping in...

And best of all, Gaborik has managed to make it through 3 games healthy.

So how has Matty Gilroy looked so far? I love that kid, had a chance to meet him 3/4 times at BU, and he's just an awesome guy!

[watravaler]

I am not positive they have a 5-10 year window such as you are predicting. Even next season, the Hawks are going to have some serious cap problems. I hope they remain competitive, it is much more fun as a Wings fan having a decent rival. :)

Time will tell, but as long as Toews and Kane are on the club, making the playoffs should never be a problem. Finding a goal-tender, filling in the gaps, etc...yeah, but I think the cap stuff is a tad bit over-blown(see Detroit, year after year!) given the talent the Hawks were allowed to build up while tanking for a decade. Only a true clown can screw this situation up, and I think(hope) Scotty Bowman's kid knows what he is doing.

[Logan]

So how has Matty Gilroy looked so far? I love that kid, had a chance to meet him 3/4 times at BU, and he's just an awesome guy!

I haven't seen much of him personally since I was at a bachelor party this weekend and couldn't see the first two games, but early reviews are definitely positive.

[DeToxRox]

May is going to play tonight if his paperwork gets squared away. Abdelkader to GR.

[Honolulu_Blue]

May is going to play tonight if his paperwork gets squared away. Abdelkader to GR.

Maltby (36), Draper (38), and May (37). That line is a little long in the tooth even for the Red Wings.

What's up with Patrick Eaves? Is he injured? I sort of lost track of him.

[DeToxRox]

Maltby (36), Draper (38), and May (37). That line is a little long in the tooth even for the Red Wings.

What's up with Patrick Eaves? Is he injured? I sort of lost track of him.

Babcock said he'd play tonight if May can't go, but he'll for sure play the game after. Seems like he just hasn't found a spot, and the writing is on the wall, because when Helmer is gone someone has to go to GR and May is Babcock's guy, so I really don't see it being him, especially after what Babcock said today:

“We got the crap run out of us,'' Babcock said. "We had May in a couple of games in exhibition and no one got hacked or whacked or touched. We don’t have him and we get run. You get tired of watching that.

"Our guys do a real good job of competing hard, but we don’t have a team that twists off helmets at stoppages and when you start seeing it all the time, it’s just nice when you got someone to look after that stuff now.

"Tough guys always play tough, I got no problem with that. But the guys that aren’t tough, when they play against you and are tough, that drives me crazy. So we’ve seen enough of that.’’

[DeToxRox]

Maltby (36), Draper (38), and May (37). That line is a little long in the tooth even for the Red Wings.

What's up with Patrick Eaves? Is he injured? I sort of lost track of him.

Dola, when Helm is back I think the 4th line will be Draper - Helm - May with Malts as the 13th forward. I still think he'll play 40 or so games but I expect May to play a lot depending on the matchup.

[bbor]

Maltby (36), Draper (38), and May (37). That line is a little long in the tooth even for the Red Wings.

Are you kidding me?

That's a Detroit version of the kid line :D

[Honolulu_Blue]

Dola, when Helm is back I think the 4th line will be Draper - Helm - May with Malts as the 13th forward. I still think he'll play 40 or so games but I expect May to play a lot depending on the matchup.

Helm definitely will be in the line-up. If it's between May and Maltby, it's a bit of a toss-up as far as I'm concerned. I haven't really watched Brad May closely in many, many years, so it's hard to say how much he has left in the tank outside of a willingness to scrap, which is definitely an worthwhile element.

[Chief Rum]

I liked May when he was here, but toughness is really all you can expect to get from him now. Which, as noted, is worth something.

It never made sense for the Ducks to have him, since they already had Parros, but then, Burke was still there, so they were stockpiling big uglies as per Burkian policy.

[bhlloy]

I would add that May has a reputation as a guy who has a screw loose and isn't afraid to cheapshot somebody (see Kim Johnsson of the Wild in the 07 playoffs) if he feels a message needs to be sent.

He's not a great fighter at all anymore but in terms of "encouraging" people not to take runs at Detroit's star players or take a few extra shots after the whistle he's probably still pretty good value for the reason above.

[Suburban Rhythm]

3 games into this season and the best player has been Matt Carle. He's really improved from last year and him being paired with Pronger allows him to take more chances in the offensive zone. His play in his own end has improved also.

Emery gave up 5 goals but the defense left him out to dry on 3 of them. I am cautiously optimistic with him. Losing Betts for a month will hurt because that 4th line is actually decent. Betts and Laperrier are good on the PK and eat minutes that Richards and Carter had to last year. That'll make those two fresher.

We'll see how much they've improved again tonight. In my mind the Pens are still the team to beat in the East.

Penguins were garbage last night. They didn't even show up vs Phoenix.

10 penalties, both goals scored on the PP for the Coyotes (then the empty netter). Brent Johnson got the start and played pretty well-- to give Fleury off with tonight at Philly in mind.

Is the crowd booing Crosby yet?

[Draft Dodger]

I would add that May has a reputation as a guy who has a screw loose and isn't afraid to cheapshot somebody (see Kim Johnsson of the Wild in the 07 playoffs) if he feels a message needs to be sent.


or, you know, put a bounty on someone's head

[Galaxy]

Sabres host the Coyotes after five long days from it's season opener.

[Dr. Sak]

.

Is the crowd booing Crosby yet?

Actually no. They were all at the Phillies game, got a call today that there were still 500 tix available. But I'm sure since the Phils lost, all the fans will be in a great mood tonight and will shower the Pens with nothing but love.

[Suburban Rhythm]

So that was actually pretty good game...until the final 5 seconds.

Richards does his best Georges Laraque impersonation, then Hartnell does his Mike Tyson.

[samifan24]

The Bruins played a great 20 minutes tonight. Unfortunately they forgot to show up for the last 40 minutes and lost 6-1. Two ugly losses in the first three. It's still early, though, and the Bruins get the Islanders and Colorado the next two games.

[johnnyshaka]

Boy, the Oilers have deserved better so far this season as they lost in a shootout tonight after the Flames tied it up with 1.5 seconds to go. They've also had several goals bounce off of their own players...I believe they've had one in each of their first three games.

Also lost Souray to a concussion after Iggy's stick got tangled in Souray's skate and they both went into the boards hard and awkwardly.

[Dr. Sak]

So that was actually pretty good game...until the final 5 seconds.

Richards does his best Georges Laraque impersonation, then Hartnell does his Mike Tyson.

If Letang stuck his fingers in his mouth, then Hartnell should have bit him. And if you are taking Staggy's words for it, well...you know what I am going to say about that.

Comparing what Richards did to Laraque??? There was no sliding...it wasn't even that bad. He was driving to the net.

I asked this to another one of my Pens fan friends...how can a team be so good yet have such whiny fans, and I'm referring to the Pens?

[Travis]

I can't wait to see Souray get a hold of Iginla. Be a hell of a lot more entertaining than watching Moreau step up, fall down, then eat a few shots with the linesmen in the way.

[Sublime 2]

The Bruins played a great 20 minutes tonight. Unfortunately they forgot to show up for the last 40 minutes and lost 6-1. Two ugly losses in the first three. It's still early, though, and the Bruins get the Islanders and Colorado the next two games.

What a terrible 2nd and 3rd period! They are not exactly firing out of the gates, but I think they can right the ship over the next couple of games. I'm really interested to see Tuuka play tomorrow.

[Honolulu_Blue]

I was glad to see the Wings finally win one, but they really only looked like the Wings for about a half of a period. The rest of the game the Hawks were really taking it to them. They were dictating the game and the pace of the game. In most games the last few years the Wings would be the ones dictating the play and carrying the puck the majority of the time. Granted, Chicago is a very good team, but it will be interesting to see how things come together this year.

So, I guess Chris Neil and Jason Spezza got into a slashing fight at practice today. Clearly the leadership void created by the Danny Heatley trade is beginning to take effect.

[Dr. Sak]

Holy crap!

http://www.tsn.ca/nhl/story/?id=294301

[RomaGoth]

Holy crap!

http://www.tsn.ca/nhl/story/?id=294301

Not a big surprise really. Graham James is a douche of epic proportion. Just ask Sheldon Kennedy.

[Fidatelo]

This rumour has followed Fleury for much of his entire career. I wonder if things would have ended differently for him had he acknowledged it earlier (in the sense that it may have spiritually freed him and given him strength to fight those demons then)?

[Oilers9911]

Selishly, I wish Theo had stepped up years ago so Sheldon kennedy wouldn't have had to stand up to it alone but who the hell knows how I'd react in a similar situation. Good for Theo for turning things around. I would like to give that book a read. This despite the fact that seeing him with that flaming C for crap of his jersey still makes me want to puke.

[Honolulu_Blue]

Ouch.

The Wings' road this year just became considerably tougher.

Johan Franzen is out 4 months with a torn ACL.

Red Wings' Johan Franzen out four months with torn knee ligament | Detroit Red Wings - - MLive.com
(http://www.mlive.com/redwings/index.ssf/2009/10/red_wings_johan_franzen_out_fo.html)

[yacovfb]

Comparing what Richards did to Laraque??? There was no sliding...it wasn't even that bad. He was driving to the net.


I'm not sure of the Laraque reference y'all are talking about so I can't compare it to that, but I did see the play last night. It wasn't too bad, definitely worse though than merely driving to the net as most people driving to the net stop where the goalie is.

What I don't get is this - Flyers fans, among others, get on Crosby for being a whiner, taking dives to draw penalties, etc. WTF was Richards doing last night? Dude crashes the crease, hits his arms on the goalpost and then curls into a ball holding his head? It was so exaggerated it was like like Rodney Dangerfield yelling "aw, my arm...I think it's broken" in Caddyshack.

[Dr. Sak]

I'm not sure of the Laraque reference y'all are talking about so I can't compare it to that, but I did see the play last night. It wasn't too bad, definitely worse though than merely driving to the net as most people driving to the net stop where the goalie is.

What I don't get is this - Flyers fans, among others, get on Crosby for being a whiner, taking dives to draw penalties, etc. WTF was Richards doing last night? Dude crashes the crease, hits his arms on the goalpost and then curls into a ball holding his head? It was so exaggerated it was like like Rodney Dangerfield yelling "aw, my arm...I think it's broken" in Caddyshack.

Do a youtube search for George Laraque slide tackle Biron. You'll see.

I agree with Richards, but that's seems to be the M.O with this league more and more.

No suspension for Hartnell. He said the following:
“[Letang] had me in a headlock, his free hand was in there, and I can’t tell you what happened but I definitely didn’t bite him,” said Hartnell after practice this morning at the Virtua Center Flyers Skate Zone. “I know he was complaining like he did, but his bare hand was scratching my face and hands were everywhere.”

Edit: I don't think Crosby does it as much as when he first came into the league. To be honest the guy didn't bitch at all in the playoffs.

[RomaGoth]

Ouch.

The Wings' road this year just became considerably tougher.

Johan Franzen is out 4 months with a torn ACL.


Red Wings' Johan Franzen out four months with torn knee ligament | Detroit Red Wings - - MLive.com
(http://www.mlive.com/redwings/index.ssf/2009/10/red_wings_johan_franzen_out_fo.html)

Yeah I just saw this. Not good. Not good at all.

[DeToxRox]

With Franzen out I am wondering how they decide to do the lines now. Babcock loves Fil's line but he'd make most sense to move up to the 2nd line and then have Helm center the third line. That's a big responsibility for Helm though. I could see Abdelkader moved to the 2nd line for a while to put a big body who can skate with Dats and Holmer also.

I am intrigued to see how it pans out as much as it sucks.

[Suburban Rhythm]

The Richards thing I don't think was all that bad, but he certainly didn't try pulling up. It wasn't as intentional as Laraque's, but it's not like he was following the puck- the defenseman in front blocks the original shot.

Take this opinion with a grain of salt-- listening to NHL on XM, they had Pierre McGuire, who I think we can all agree is a huge fan of whatever the flavor of the week is, on the morning show. He loves Crosby, he loves Richards, he loves Ovechkin.

He said he's known Letang since he was still in juniors, and he's never been anything but an honest kid, and he can't see him making this up.

As far as saying Letang stuck his fingers in Hartnell's mouth...not sure what to say. Letang is pushing the net of it's moorings, with Richards in the net, and Hartnell tackles him from behind. I can think of alot of reactions from Letang, but dropping his gloves and sticking his fingers in Hartnell's mouth isn't one of them.

He's not going to get suspended, there is no clear evidence.

[Suburban Rhythm]

Not smart enough to embed the file

YouTube - Pittsburgh Penguins vs Philadelphia Flyers 10-08-2009 Last Seconds and Tanger Injury (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UneRznYJTcI)

At the 2:00 mark, it's a different angle than I had previously seen.
Sure looks like Richards intends to make contact. I sure he was off balance/Kunitz shoved him/the wind was blowing, but he leans into Fleury.

[Suburban Rhythm]

On a lighter note, this is pretty good

http://img23.imageshack.us/img23/945/hartnell2.jpg

[bhlloy]

Apparently Bettman met with Quebec City officials about moving a team back to Quebec as the Nordiques? That would be freaking awesome, would love to see any of the 3 (Hartford, Winnipeg, QC) get "their" team back and all the old school rivalries that come with it. Putting the second team back in French Canada would be an added bonus, and the uniforms are also the best in the NHL IMO.

[Chief Rum]

Apparently Bettman met with Quebec City officials about moving a team back to Quebec as the Nordiques? That would be freaking awesome, would love to see any of the 3 (Hartford, Winnipeg, QC) get "their" team back and all the old school rivalries that come with it. Putting the second team back in French Canada would be an added bonus, and the uniforms are also the best in the NHL IMO.

My question becomes...what team?

Clearly Bettman's not interested in moving the Yotes.

BTW, nice win for the Ducks last night, huh? Good to come back. Man, to get that tie goal with 16 secs left. Dr. Sak's probably still mad about that.

[bhlloy]

Yotes will have to move, Bettman knows this. He's saving face by not letting the Balsillie bid win but with a team bleeding that much money (and they could be the worst team in the league this year, that's not going to help) and no interested buyers in sight, they have to go somewhere. I also think one of the Florida teams moves in the next 3-5 years.

Unbelievable game last night, just an incredible tying goal from the open net save and keep in the zone by Getz to the ridiculous saucer pass from Niedermayer to the finish. Selanne looks really good so far and Hiller looked much better than his first start as well.

[samifan24]

I'm afraid Bettman will never bring the Whale back to Hartford.

[Logan]

Starting to get excited about this Rangers team...

[Chief Rum]

Starting to get excited about this Rangers team...

Yeah, good game for the Rangers. The Ducks were playing awful. Only took 18 shots. Don't know if maybe having to play an afternoon game after an overtime night game the night before had anything to do with it, but, hey, not like New York is all that far away from Philly.

[Dr. Sak]

BTW, nice win for the Ducks last night, huh? Good to come back. Man, to get that tie goal with 16 secs left. Dr. Sak's probably still mad about that.

I heard it was a great play by Getzlaf to keep the puck in. I listened to it on the radio. I wish the Flyers would've held on but Anaheim is one of the best if not the best team in the west. So I'm not that upset.

[Suburban Rhythm]

This is pretty classic on the Letang- Hartnell case.

Cherry's comments...I don't really expect anything of value there anymore.

But McLean's summary at the end- GOLD

YouTube - Don Cherry talks about Scott Hartnell's Bite (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ediPXKX3jVY)

[Dr. Sak]

If Letang had his finger in Hartnell's mouth, he deserved to get it bitten.

[Suburban Rhythm]

We could go back and forth for ages, but it is funny that while there is no video evidence of the bite truly happening, Cherry is certain it is because Letang put his fingers in Hartnell's mouth.

Hundreds of players a year get facewashes or hangs in their face after the whistle, but from what I can remember, only two-- Hartnell and Ruutu (last season?)-- have been accused of biting someone.

[Dr. Sak]

I'm just making a general statement. I don't know if he bit him out right, if Letang had his fingers in his mouth and he bit him, or when they got slammed to the ice his jaw got jammed shut and he bit him there.

[Galaxy]

Ouch.

The Wings' road this year just became considerably tougher.

Johan Franzen is out 4 months with a torn ACL.


Red Wings' Johan Franzen out four months with torn knee ligament | Detroit Red Wings - - MLive.com
(http://www.mlive.com/redwings/index.ssf/2009/10/red_wings_johan_franzen_out_fo.html)

Ouch...Looking forward to the Wings-Sabres game Tuesday. Miller has been stellar in net (and the defense). I just hope our offense and powerplay can actually convert our high shot count into goals.

19-year-old rookie Tyler Myers is looking like he might develop into one the league's top defensemen. Already is showing he is the best on the team right now.

[samifan24]

Hey, Bruins lost to the Avalanche. Awesome start to the season!

[RomaGoth]

Hah. I like Chelios, but he really needs to hang up his skates.

Chris Chelios, 47, works out with AHL's Chicago Wolves - ESPN Chicago (http://sports.espn.go.com/chicago/nhl/news/story?id=4554043)


My favorite part of the story:

The 47-year-old Chelios said he wants to help his chances of "getting back in the NHL someday."

[Honolulu_Blue]

Hah. I like Chelios, but he really needs to hang up his skates.

Chris Chelios, 47, works out with AHL's Chicago Wolves - ESPN Chicago (http://sports.espn.go.com/chicago/nhl/news/story?id=4554043)


My favorite part of the story:

I say, more power to him.

If he loves the game that much, why should he stop playing? It's not like he's going to tarnish his career. Everyone knows what Chelios was in his prime and know that he's not quite the same player, but still can add some value. I think his NHL days are pretty much numbered, but if he wants to give it a shot, I say "go for it."

Good luck, Chris Chelios. Thanks for your time as a Wing and I hope you make it back to the NHL.

[bbor]

I agree...if he is not embarassing himself then i say more power to him.

[bbor]

Dola....Leafs are so desperate for a goal they have Jamal Mayers on the PP.

Oh lord help me.

Bruins should enjoy their lottery pick.

[bbor]

Triple dola..of course as i say that the Leafs score.2-1 NYR

[Chubby]

Ouch...Looking forward to the Wings-Sabres game Tuesday. Miller has been stellar in net (and the defense). I just hope our offense and powerplay can actually convert our high shot count into goals.

19-year-old rookie Tyler Myers is looking like he might develop into one the league's top defensemen. Already is showing he is the best on the team right now.

Which means stupid Darcy doesn't extend him on time and gets backed into a Vanek-contract again... Darcy needs to go!

Myers is looking good, I think when he was down on the ice last game he was trying to draw a penalty. I don't really buy his "I got the wind knocked out of me" when he was laying listless.

[Logan]

Rangers put up a 4 spot in the 3rd to beat TOR 7-2.

[Dr. Sak]

What worse...the Leafs or Coyotes??

[Maple Leafs]

What worse...the Leafs or Coyotes??
Leafs. At least Coyotes fans won't have to put up with this shit for more than another year or two.

[Honolulu_Blue]

The Flames/Blackhawks game on Versus has been great. The Flames storm out to a 5-0 lead only to see the Blackhawks storm back and tie it up at 5-5. There was a span of a few minutes in the second period where the Blackhawks scored 3 goals to make 5-4.

Iginla, sensing the tide turning, drops the gloves and fights Brower right after the face-off following the 4th Blackhawks goal. He handles himself pretty well and settles things down for his team for at least the rest of the second period. That sequence right there is why there is no sport better than hockey.

And the Blackhawks just won it in overtime: 6-5.

[watravaler]

LMAO at Calgary

[bbor]

Leafs. At least Coyotes fans won't have to put up with this shit for more than another year or two.

Thank god the Yotes did'nt move to Hamilton.I could'nt stand to watch that much shit hockey.

[bbor]

Leafs. At least Coyotes fans won't have to put up with this shit for more than another year or two.

Thank god the Yotes did'nt move to Hamilton.I could'nt stand to watch that much shit hockey.

[Chief Rum]

Thank god the Yotes did'nt move to Hamilton.I could'nt stand to watch that much shit hockey.

You can say that again.

Oh wait, you did.

[bbor]

You can say that again.

Oh wait, you did.

LOL:D

[Maple Leafs]

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[johnnyshaka]

Great stuff, ML.

Not sure if the Oilers are for real or not...they did this to start last season as well...but they are a lot more fun to watch than they used to be.

[DataKing]

Wings/Sabres tonight on VS

[RomaGoth]

Very nice ML.

[Galaxy]

What happened to Detroit?

[Honolulu_Blue]

What happened to Detroit?

Lost 40% of their offense from last season through free agency and injury.

Besides, it's one game. They got blown out by Nashville and Columbus last year something like 8-0 and 8-2 or something.

[Galaxy]

Lost 40% of their offense from last season through free agency and injury.



I know how that feels being a Sabres fan.

[RomaGoth]

What happened to Detroit?

Defense looks terrible, a very poor effort from the entire team. Hopefully they can pick it up against the Kings on Thursday.

[Galaxy]

Defense looks terrible, a very poor effort from the entire team. Hopefully they can pick it up against the Kings on Thursday.

Bad news for the Sabres is Vanek is out for "weeks".

[johnnyshaka]

Uhm...no Chelios and the Wings are losing? Am I missing something here or is the solution right in front of Ken Holland?

;)

[Logan]

PLEASE STAY HEALTHY MARIAN! His goal last night was just such a smooth play.

In other news, Vinny Prospal has been a great cheap FA signing.

[Dr. Sak]

PLEASE STAY HEALTHY MARIAN! His goal last night was just such a smooth play.

In other news, Vinny Prospal has been a great cheap FA signing.

Wait till the hitting picks up...Prospal won't be going into corners anymore for pucks, and will vanish like a fart in the wind.

The Rangers have impressed me though.

[Logan]

Well historically he does alternate good/shitty years, so we're hoping to benefit from that.

Del Zotto has been incredible. His passing is top notch for a 19 year old. The only thing I'm worried about at this point (hard to be worried in a 6-game winning streak) is that the 2nd line has really struggled to score. Once everyone else cools off, which will obviously happen, they need to start stepping up.

This team really could be special if Cherapanov was here. So sad.

[Dr. Sak]

I hope Del Zotto keeps it up, I just picked him up on my fantasy team.

[Chubby]

Bad news for the Sabres is Vanek is out for "weeks".good news is he's really out "days" :)

[Galaxy]

good news is he's really out "days" :)

Yeap. Could be back by the weekend.

[bhlloy]

LOL, classic moment in the Coyotes-Blues game on NHL Center Ice. They are taking their time reviewing Jovanovski's OT goal, they zoom in on him and he yells real loud "come on you fucking prick/dink/something else offensive" at the ref.

Also Kariya scores one of the most bizarre goals you will ever see, Yandle brings the puck out from behind his own net, sits there for a second and Kariya just slaps the puck off his stick through the legs of Bryzgalov who is looking down the ice.

[Galaxy]

The Sabres traded Daniel Paille to Boston for a 2010 third-round pick and a conditional fourth-round pick.

[samifan24]

The Sabres traded Daniel Paille to Boston for a 2010 third-round pick and a conditional fourth-round pick.

Can any Sabres fans tell me about Paille? What sort of player is he? 3rd line grinder?

[Suburban Rhythm]

So he replaces Kobasew, with less offensive ability, a little younger, and about $1M cap savings?

[NoSkillz]

Can any Sabres fans tell me about Paille? What sort of player is he? 3rd line grinder?

Paille likely tops out as a third line checker type - good wheels, responsible defensively and an above average penalty killer. Decent in the corners and on the cycle...

However, there is no consistency to his game and that's why he fell out of favour in Buffalo. One game you'll notice him buzzing all over the ice and the next three he'll be invisible. He scored 19 goals a couple years ago but that is likely his ceiling. His hands are a bit below average, especially considering the fact he was a first round pick.

I think he just needed a change of scenery. Seems like a good kid (he's a local boy, born and raised in Welland, ON, about 20 minutes from Buffalo) but he has to realize he's running out of chances to stick in the NHL and has to bring a solid work ethic into every game, not just once in awhile. He was a big hitter in junior hockey in Guelph and was a great leader there but those skills haven't translated to the pros.

If they put him on the third line with Bergeron, he has the chance to put up 45 points if he plays well. Otherwise, expect about 30 points, inconsistent efforts from game to game but solid penalty killing.

[Galaxy]

Paille likely tops out as a third line checker type - good wheels, responsible defensively and an above average penalty killer. Decent in the corners and on the cycle...

However, there is no consistency to his game and that's why he fell out of favour in Buffalo. One game you'll notice him buzzing all over the ice and the next three he'll be invisible. He scored 19 goals a couple years ago but that is likely his ceiling. His hands are a bit below average, especially considering the fact he was a first round pick.

I think he just needed a change of scenery. Seems like a good kid (he's a local boy, born and raised in Welland, ON, about 20 minutes from Buffalo) but he has to realize he's running out of chances to stick in the NHL and has to bring a solid work ethic into every game, not just once in awhile. He was a big hitter in junior hockey in Guelph and was a great leader there but those skills haven't translated to the pros.

If they put him on the third line with Bergeron, he has the chance to put up 45 points if he plays well. Otherwise, expect about 30 points, inconsistent efforts from game to game but solid penalty killing.

What he said.

His lack of consistency is his problem. When he's on, he can be a pain to play against. He's can punch in goals as well. Maybe a change of scenery and change of coaches will help.

[Chubby]

I'm amazed Darcy made a move at all, usually he likes to try and send someone down to the AHL (only to see them get claimed)

[Sublime 2]

Ughh! On top of Looch being out a few weeks with a broken finger, I just read Savard is out 4-6 weeks w/ a broken foot! Just Lovely!

I'd like to maybe see Zach Hamill get some burn while Savvy is out. Along w/ the increased PT Sobotka/Marchand should see, we should get an extended look at the youngsters.

[samifan24]

Ughh! On top of Looch being out a few weeks with a broken finger, I just read Savard is out 4-6 weeks w/ a broken foot! Just Lovely!

I'd like to maybe see Zach Hamill get some burn while Savvy is out. Along w/ the increased PT Sobotka/Marchand should see, we should get an extended look at the youngsters.

We may see Hamill eventually but for now we get Trent Whitfield. Ugh. I'm not sure how this Bruins season could get any worse.

[bbor]

Ughh! On top of Looch being out a few weeks with a broken finger, I just read Savard is out 4-6 weeks w/ a broken foot! Just Lovely!

I'd like to maybe see Zach Hamill get some burn while Savvy is out. Along w/ the increased PT Sobotka/Marchand should see, we should get an extended look at the youngsters.


Trade ya Kessel for 2 1st and a 2nd.

[samifan24]

If Paille is as good a penalty killer as you guys say then I like the deal. Losing Yelle, Ward and Axelsson from the PK units have killed the Bruins this year.

[RomaGoth]

The Penguins Gonchar is out for about as long as Savard. Guess he was injured in last night's game.

[Suburban Rhythm]

The Penguins Gonchar is out for about as long as Savard. Guess he was injured in last night's game.

Broken bone in his wrist, left in the middle of the 2nd period last night.

Gives Pittsburgh a chance to see what it's like with Letang and Goligoski running the PP. Gonchar is in the final year of his deal, and Letang's entry level deal up end of this season. Speculation is Gonchar wants to continue (end?) his career in Pittsburgh- he's won here, well liked, Geno attached to him-- but this let's the Pens see if they can drive the price down a little.

Pairings will probably shift around a little, Letang-Orpik on the top pair now.

[Suburban Rhythm]

Caught this in the SI Vault, Pierre McGuire list of top 15 prospects in 1999, who will be the best in 10 years (now).

Ten Years From Now... - 11.22.99 - SI Vault (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/vault/article/magazine/MAG1017741/index.htm?eref=sisf)

[samifan24]

Well the Bruins are falling apart...

[Dr. Sak]

Well the Bruins are falling apart...

They'll break out when they play the Flyers this week.

[Maple Leafs]

Caught this in the SI Vault, Pierre McGuire list of top 15 prospects in 1999, who will be the best in 10 years (now).

Ten Years From Now... - 11.22.99 - SI Vault (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/vault/article/magazine/MAG1017741/index.htm?eref=sisf)
Stuff like that makes me feel better about having no prospects or draft picks.

[bbor]

Stuff like that makes me feel better about having no prospects or draft picks.

Or young players or veteran players.

[Wolfpack]

Well the Bruins are falling apart...

Could be worse. The Canes don't look like they've come together. Just gave the Isles their first win of the year in a shootout. *sigh*

[BishopMVP]

Ugh. I'm not sure how this Bruins season could get any worse.Like bbor said... we could have traded our 1st round pick, so even losing all season wouldn't give us anything.

[johnnyshaka]

Penner has 3 points going into the 3rd period and 12 points on the season...holy shit!!

Yes, his key to the city is currently being fabricated.

EDIT: Make that 4 points...just scored his 2nd goal of the night to tie it up...WOW!!

[johnnyshaka]

And Penner adds his 5th point of the night with an assist on the go ahead goal.

Forget the key to the city...I now live in Pennerton, Alberta!!!

[Chief Rum]

And Penner adds his 5th point of the night with an assist on the go ahead goal.

Forget the key to the city...I now live in Pennerton, Alberta!!!

Wait...is it a contract year?

[johnnyshaka]

Wait...is it a contract year?

No...it isn't...that's what is so amazing about his start to the season!!!

[RomaGoth]

Caught this in the SI Vault, Pierre McGuire list of top 15 prospects in 1999, who will be the best in 10 years (now).

Ten Years From Now... - 11.22.99 - SI Vault (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/vault/article/magazine/MAG1017741/index.htm?eref=sisf)

:lol:

Only Gagne and Tanguay have really turned into top players from that group. Fisher is above average. Several of those players are not even in the NHL anymore.

McGuire is an idiot.

[TurnerONU22]

Jackets completely gifted the game to Edmonton, after being up 4-1. The top line can't play a lick of defense, and missing Hejda (who has to be a top 5 shutdown defenseman) and Commodore isn't helping either.

[johnnyshaka]

Jackets completely gifted the game to Edmonton, after being up 4-1. The top line can't play a lick of defense, and missing Hejda (who has to be a top 5 shutdown defenseman) and Commodore isn't helping either.

We were missing some guys, too...no Souray or Staios and with Brule down with the flu that meant we had to dress MacIntyre...a 4th line ECHLer.

I'm definitely glad I didn't change the channel after the Torres goal, that's for sure!!

[Travis]

I wonder how MacT feels knowing that his best move as a coach for this team was getting fired.

[Logan]

Went to the Rangers-Devils game last night and was able to see the worst game of Marc Staal's career. Awesome.

[RomaGoth]

What's next, a team blowjob session? The entire Lightning team needs to turn in their mancard.

Puck naked: Tampa Bay Lightning strip it off for team unity - ESPN (http://sports.espn.go.com/nhl/news/story?id=4581463)

[Maple Leafs]

In anticipation of the Leafs/Canucks game tomorrow, a few of bored fans were able to get #KyleWellwoodIsSoFat (http://twitter.com/#search?q=%23KyleWellwoodIsSoFat) into the trending topics list on Twitter today.

This is what happens when for some reason you decide to give a team a full week off in the middle of October.

[TurnerONU22]

The Jackets blow another 2+ goal lead on the road, but come back to win thanks to Fedor Tyutin's crazy goal late in the 3rd. Here's the winning goal:

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This highlight doesn't show Giguere "reinjuring" his groin on the goal.