It's Here! The 2006-2007 NHL Season Thread

[Pyser]

now that all my devils are signed (gionta, hale, martin, rasmussen, clemmenson), we can start the regular season.

here's to hoping for an atlantic division repeat from the red and black!

[Draft Dodger]

Avs have claimed George Parros from the Kings. I've enjoyed watching him with the Monarchs over the years - nice to see him with the Avs.

[Honolulu_Blue]

Red Wings Season Preview

TSN has the Wings ranked #1. I don't know what they're seeing that I'm not, but there's no way the Wings should be ranked first. I don't even think they're the best team in their crappy division. I think Nasvhille has likely passed them by. The team I saw in the first round series against the Oilers was exactly the team I expected to see all season. Suspect goaltending, no speed or scoring from the wings, a lack of size and physical play up front and along the blueline which would leave them vulenrable in front of both nets. They haven't done anything in the off-season to improve the situation.

In fact, the overall feeling I get from Wings' fans is one of general pessimism. There is very little excitement for the Wings this year. I am sure a lot of that has to do with the fact that the Tigers are in the playoffs for the first time in 20 years, but there has been very little talk of the Wings excitement. The loss of Yzerman and Shanahan, long time fan favorites, will effect the team on and off the ice.

I have many reservations about this team. Zetterberg and Datsyuk are quality forwards. I think there's an argument to be made that, outside of guys still in their rookie contracts (e.g., Crosby, Ovechkin, Phanuef), Zetterberg is dollar-for-dollar one of the best bargains in the NHL. Lang has never done much for me. Ever. Babcock seems to love him and is constantly sticking up for him. I don't have much faith in either Williams or Samuelsson playing that much better than last year that they'll be able to adequate fill the goal scoring void left by Shanahan. Holmstrom is Holmstrom. He'll get in front of the net and do his job. Draper and Maltby will do their thing. It sounds like they are expecting Franzen to be more involved offensively. That'd be good to see. He's a big guy and can bang around a bit. He was one of the few guys (other than Yzerman and Zetterberg) who stepped it up in the playoffs.

As for the new guys, Hudler is very wee and Kopecky seems lanky. I'm excited to see these guys get a shot. It feels like they've been in the Wings' system forever and it's about time they get a chance to show if they have what it takes. There were so many rookies and young guys playing very well in the league last year, that hopefully at least one of these two guys will excede expectations. Apparently Babcock hates Hulder because of his lacksidasical style of play. That will be a constant little sub-drama.

They still lack speed up front and scoring from the wings. I thought that'd be a problem last year, but they seemed to manage ok.

Along the blueline, they added Dany Markov. He's an injury risk, but he has an abrasive style that the Wings desparately lack (more on this later). Problem is, however, that he's never stayed too long anywhere in his career. If he was really that good he would have stuck. Lidstrom, Kronwall, and Schneider round out the top four. That leaves Lilja (who I fucking hate), Lebda (who has been impressive in the pre-season), and The Methuselah. I must admit, I liked the way The Methuselah played in the playoffs. I liked how he smacked Hemsky around (someone had to hit something) and he killed some penalties almost single-handedly. That said, he's 45. FORTY-FIVE.

Goalies. Hasek. He's got a papier-mache groin and is flighty. It will not end well. But in the end Hasek gamble is what it is. If he stays healthy, I think he's shown that he still is a good enough goalie to make a difference. Is he what he once was? No. If he had a good groin and I was going into the playoffs with him in the net would I be happy? Definitely. The 2002 playoffs were the only time during my life as a Wings' fan where I always felt my team had the better goalie in series. It's a nice feeling. Osgood is a good backup. From what I've seen of him in the pre-season, he's look good. Behind them you have MacDonald, Liv, and Howard. If any of those three see a lot of minutes the Wings are probably in trouble, but I think they each have some promise.

Then there is the question of size/toughness. Do they lack it? Yes. Would I like to see more of it? Definitely. The Wings addressed this by signing street UFA Brad Norton. He's their 13th forward. He will likely not suit up many nights and even when in uniform he'll likely not see too many minutes, but it's nice to know that the Wings have at least someone, if need be, whocan drop the gloves and take care of business. The Wings desparately lack size and toughness and, while Norton isn't really going to change that dramatically, at this point any little bit will help. I'd much rather have him than the other forwards that were trying out (Hussey, Kolanos, Langfeld, or Devereaux) each of which seemed sort of like interchangeable 4th line parts. At least Norton has a role, limited as it is. the answer. I love that's he's willing to drop the loves and stand up for his teammates. I like that he's scrappy, but the Wings need grit and size that can play more than 6-7 minutes a game. They didn't address this in the offseason. Maybe they are hoping with Franzen getting more ice time that will help. I even read this morning that Babcock was talking about how Jason Williams had beefed up and could be more of a physical presence. If the Wings are relying on that sort of wishful thinking, there could be an issue. The Oilers dominated the front of both nets last year.

To conclude (if anyone bothered reading all of this crap), I am not nearly as pessmistic as most Wings' fans. I think this team will be fine. I see them coming in second in their division and finishing in the top 5 in the regular season. It's far too early to start making predictions about the playoffs. The one thing Holland has done, unlike last year, is saved cap space (see, e.g., Oilers, Edmonton 05-06). Assuming the Wings are in a position to make a playoff run, Holland has the ability to make a move or two of some significance. I would imagine this would include some additional toughness/grit up front. Still, I don't see them as a Cup contender.

As I've said before, I am not sure what else the Wings could have done in the off-season UFA wise. There are very few players who, for the money they signed for, I really felt the Wings missed out on. Signing Owen Nolan would have been fun. I think Mike Grier, even at the money he signed for, would have been an excellent addition, but other than that, the contracts were too inflated. I don't blame Holland for passing on them.

[watravaler]

The Blackhawks will probably suck, that is all.:(

[Johnny93g]

Leafs and Blackhawks in the Stanley Cup final

Thats right, keep laughing, but it's as realistic as an Edmonton/Carolina prediction a year ago


:D

[Chief Rum]

Something me and my fellow Ducks fans have been talking about the past few days: the lack of detractors for our team. We are apparently the trendy pick to win the Cup after getting Pronger. SI picked us. Hockey News picked us. Everyone is saying nice thing about us.

So, all of us, being pessimistic Ducks fans, are a little freaked out, and wish everyone would start finding things to nitpick at us (lack of experienced scoring, too much reliance on youth, defense depth, the looming Bryz-Jiggy battle in net), so that the "jinx" won't be on us.

I have long been a fan of career underdogs (LA Rams, football UCLA, Angels, Clips, and of course, the Ducks), and my teams hardly ever get picked to win anything. So, yeah, I'm a bit weirded out by all the love.

I'm just hoping we win game one, and crush the Kings.

[dervack]

The Blackhawks will probably suck, that is all.:(
i dont know.

they look good in preseason.

i think they go all way to stenly's cup.

[Ksyrup]

The only thing that makes me feel good about the Wings this year is the knowledge that the Avs are going to suck far worse. I'm prepared for the inevitable falling off of the Wings, so if they are better than I hope, it will be a pleasant surprise.

And of course, there's always my wife's favorite team, the Panthers, to root for... :o

[Draft Dodger]

The only thing that makes me feel good about the Wings this year is the knowledge that the Avs are going to suck far worse. I'm prepared for the inevitable falling off of the Wings, so if they are better than I hope, it will be a pleasant surprise.

And of course, there's always my wife's favorite team, the Panthers, to root for... :o

the Avs might surprise you this year. Rest assured, they have a TON of question marks - Jose Theodore being the biggest. I think it really will boil down to the big three...Brad Richardson, Wojtek Wolski and Marek Svatos. (yeah, not the big 3 you thought I was going to say). Svatos had a great rookie season...and might be the less talented of the three. Richardson didn't show much last year, but has looked much better this year in camp. And Wolski seems like he's ready to explode. Paul Stastny also made the team on the strength of a strong camp and the 4 injuries, but he might not have a spot for long. If 2 of those guys have a decent season, along with veterans like Hejduk, Sakic and Brunette, things could be fun this year.

[Pumpy Tudors]

I'm excited about Friday night. The Devils will head to Carolina and try to get at least a small piece of revenge for last year's playoff loss to the Hurricanes. All of the important players are back this year, and it's amazing to see a division-winning team be able to keep its best guys around. The offseason salary cap issues with the Devils are well-documented, so I don't need to repeat those, but I'm just very impressed at the way Lamoriello got all those guys signed to contracts before the season opener. The man is clearly one of the best GMs in pro sports. He continues to amaze me.

I found this interview with Vladimir Malakhov, and I can't tell if it's real or not. I've never heard of this Russian Hockey Digest website, and I really don't know if this translation is a joke. I've gotta say that if this thing is a joke, it's a good one, because I can imagine Malakhov saying these things. The Sharks traded for this? The interview is here: http://www.rushockey.com/events.php?i=nhl&stream=nhl_interviews&id=525. Here's the text of it:

V. Malakhov: Ah, my compatriot newspaper! It's very good that someone managed to find me, as the local media is constantly reporting that I am missing.

Where are you?
V. Malakhov: Everyone is looking for me on the ice in New Jersey, but in reality I am playing tennis in Miami at the present moment. The theory of my disappearance was conjured up by American journalists or by someone from the “Devils”.

New Jersey papers report that you were invited to training camp...
V. Malakhov: That's news to me. In any case, I have not received anything, and nobody from the team has called me in a long-long time.

What is your current status?
V. Malakhov: I retired midway through last season. Even then I got tired of this mess with my contract. Thus, in the last few months I have not even given thought to making a comeback.

The New Jersey Devils maintain that you remain a cap hit for the team.
V. Malakhov: I don't know, it's of no interest to me. I don't want to fight for this money - enough, I'm tired of it!

You do not receive a salary from the New Jersey Devils?
V. Malakhov: Indeed.

But you're losing an enormous amount of money by Russian standards - about ten thousand dollars per day...
V. Malakhov: Money - it's good, but time and nerves are more valuable.

Nevertheless, the have been reports in the media that your agent is engaged in negotiations about some sort of compensation payments.
V. Malakhov: In fifteen years of hockey I've had enough injuries for it to be possible for me to obtain some insurance money. But, I repeat, I don’t want to spend any time or nerves on the matter.

Where is the other no-show at training camp, Alexander Mogilny?
V. Malakhov: I heard that he reported to camp after all, his case is completely different. I haven't spoken to him in a long time though.

Are you experiencing any nostalgia about hockey?
V. Malakhov: No. My knees are almost completely gone - they are only good enough to play tennis. I only regret one thing - that last summer I changed my mind and played for New Jersey instead of Vityaz. The saying holds true: it's no good to change your mind at the last moment. This whole New Jersey mess started as a result.

[Pumpy Tudors]

Dola

The Malakhov article is dated September 19, 2006, so it's a couple weeks old.

[Honolulu_Blue]

Well this dealing by the Devils to get under the cap is certainly interesting. Clever deals but both are horrible precedents for the integrity of the salary cap system.

Mogilny

The Devils don't have to count Mogilny's contract ($3.5M) because he's Long Term Injured. They WOULD have had to count the contract if Mogilny was retired. This is a joke. It is open license to sign older players to long-term deals, fully knowing that when they get too old, you put them on LTI and they don't count against the cap any more. The notion that the injury has to be confirmed by an independent physician is meaningless? What 37 year old NHLer could not convince a doctor that his knee or his shoulder hurts too much to play any more?

What this means, say, is you have a Mike Modano or somebody, 33 years old, late in career (say 5 years left) but still a prime performer, worth say $6M per year. You sign him to an 8 year, $32M deal, which counts $4M against the salary cap. He stops playing at age 38, but instead of retiring, goes on LTI. He's still getting the $32M so he's happy. 5 years at his market value of $6M would have only been $30 million. Meanwhile, the team only had to count $4 million against the salary cap for all those years, giving them $2M in free cap space, and the fact that his career is now over is irrelevant because the last 3 years on his deal do not count against the cap.

This will happen, you just watch.

Malakhov

This one just pisses me off. The Devils effectively give the Sharks a first round pick to take Malakhov's contract off their hands. The guy is apparently in Russia. He's not going to play. So his salary counts against the cap. But here's the kicker -- the Sharks DO NOT HAVE TO PAY HIM. He's not playing. So this costs them cap space, but NO money. Basically a free first round pick, given the team's existing budget.

I guess overall this provides an incentive, sort of like trading carbon emissions, for some teams to stay under the cap so they have room to do deals like this. But the market for this kind of deal will become more transparent and the price will go down. The system was designed precisely to punish teams for signing inflated deals like this one, and here we just have another way for the rich teams to get out from under their obligations without being punished. And why did this generosity have to involve a good team in the Western Conference? Couldn't he have swung this with Washington?

Not happy.

[bbor]

I could easily see the Ducks as the champs this season if their younger players can continue to develop as they have been.They also have an ace in the hole as they could deal one of their goalies to shore up any weakness they think they may have during the season.

[boberot]

Goalies. Hasek. He's got a papier-mache groin and is flighty.

Wow. What a great line to start off the season.

[boberot]

Something me and my fellow Ducks fans have been talking about the past few days: the lack of detractors for our team. We are apparently the trendy pick to win the Cup after getting Pronger. SI picked us. Hockey News picked us. Everyone is saying nice thing about us.

So, all of us, being pessimistic Ducks fans, are a little freaked out, and wish everyone would start finding things to nitpick at us (lack of experienced scoring, too much reliance on youth, defense depth, the looming Bryz-Jiggy battle in net), so that the "jinx" won't be on us.

I have long been a fan of career underdogs (LA Rams, football UCLA, Angels, Clips, and of course, the Ducks), and my teams hardly ever get picked to win anything. So, yeah, I'm a bit weirded out by all the love.

I'm just hoping we win game one, and crush the Kings.

Wow. Get out of my head.
Buffalo, also, is a trendy pick to compete for the cup. We, in Buffalo, are not used to that sort of talk. We're not used to being held up in the preseason as a model of excellence. I feel like I could burst the bubble on everybody's optimism and point out our many flaws; but have been restraining myself.

I also am a fan of underdog teams [I am a Buffalo sports fan, after all -- and now I live near and cheer for St Bonaventure University, for those who follow college hoops. Talk about an underdog!]

All that being said, I am JUICED for tonight's rematch where my Sabres will stand there and watch The Hurricanes hoist the banner on opening night. If that doesnt motivate you, you might be dead.

[Pumpy Tudors]

I'll watch at least some of the Buffalo-Carolina matchup. I'd like to get an idea of what to expect out of Carolina when they play the Devils on Friday. :)

[Maple Leafs]

The Devils don't have to count Mogilny's contract ($3.5M) because he's Long Term Injured. They WOULD have had to count the contract if Mogilny was retired. This is a joke. It is open license to sign older players to long-term deals, fully knowing that when they get too old, you put them on LTI and they don't count against the cap any more. The notion that the injury has to be confirmed by an independent physician is meaningless? What 37 year old NHLer could not convince a doctor that his knee or his shoulder hurts too much to play any more?

But if teams used this loophole, they still have to pay the player even though it wouldn't hit their cap. For a retired player, it's the opposite: they don't get paid, but they do count against the cap.

It's a loophole, but I doubt too many teams will write off that much money in dead salaries.

[watravaler]

i dont know.

they look good in preseason.

i think they go all way to stenly's cup.


If I didn't think the individuals making decisions for the Blackhawks were morons, I'd feel the same way. However, I do, the idiots in charge have no idea what they are doing, and they have destroyed what once was a great hockey team/town.

[Draft Dodger]

my preview of the Avs for all one of you who cares about them. :)
http://inthecheapseats.com/?p=45

[sachmo71]

Death to the Avs!!
I have a feeling the Stars are going to stink, though. :(

[Chubby]

I love watching a blue screen when I should be watching the Sabres game... anyone else having issues with a game on Versus?

[bbor]

I love watching a blue screen when I should be watching the Sabres game... anyone else having issues with a game on Versus?


They are blocking out the out the Canes raising their Stanley cup banner in the Buffalo area.;)

[DeToxRox]

If I didn't think the individuals making decisions for the Blackhawks were morons, I'd feel the same way. However, I do, the idiots in charge have no idea what they are doing, and they have destroyed what once was a great hockey team/town.

Read the Raiders Look Good In The Pre-Season thread

He was mocking JBMagic. You're new around here so don't think people on here are stupid enough to think the Blackhawks will ever be good with Wertz in charge.

[klayman]

Edmonton Oilers preview

Ok, so I took last year off from hockey. I still haven't decided if I'm getting back into again, but needless to say I still loosely follow the team. I'm still not convinced that Roloson is the answer in goal, and 3 years at 4 million!!! I gotta get me some of Rollie's agent to settle my next contract. But thankfully HB and the Devils have given us a way out of that (forwarding the post to Kevin Lowe right now.)

So I guess it all depends on

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...and if that all comes together than I'm sure they will do well.

[bronconick]

I don't know if the Sharks are experienced enough on the blue line to be a serious Stanley Cup contender (hell, Vlasic almost made/is still on the roster as a 19 year old) , but the offense ought to be fun.

[Cork]

I am very interested to see how O'Sullivan and Kopitar do for the Kings this season.

-Cork

[sterlingice]

Hey, the Versus (OLN) graphics for this year don't look like they were ripped from the 1980s!

SI

[Pyser]

game looks nice in hd here in LA. INHD picked up the game. no complaints here.

[Draft Dodger]

Hey, the Versus (OLN) graphics for this year don't look like they were ripped from the 1980s!

SI

yeah. still a stupid fucking name...but the graphics are sweet.
then again, it's not like it could have gotten worse

[Pumpy Tudors]

I'm not watching any hockey yet because my wife has kinda taken over the TV. It's OK, though. I'll catch a little of the late game.

[Suburban Rhythm]

Pens news...

Brooks Orpik missing an undetermined amount of time with a hand injury. Pretty much THE physical guy on the blue line, although Eaton should help this year a little. But worse than that is this means Rob Scuderi and Joe Melichar will both be on the ice in the same game!!

Also, after claiming ANOTHER 4th line forward, this time from Buffalo, Chris Thoburn, they waived Dany Sabourin (they had kept 3 G's on the roster, Sabourin, MA Fleury and Thibault). Sabourin claimed by Vancouver off waivers.

[RGunner]

Death to the Avs!!
I have a feeling the Stars are going to stink, though. :(

certainly looked as that would be the case through 2 periods, i turn the channel for approximately 5 minutes at the start of the 3rd, they score twice...go down a man in overtime, end of the penalty kill turco puts a perfect pass to center ice for sydor for a breakaway goal...i didnt think i would watch alot of hockey this season but that game had me on the edge of my seat....great start for the stars if u dont count the first period

[Pumpy Tudors]

Whoa, seeing Marty Turco's name in RGunner's post surprised me. I guess I was so consumed by the Devils' offseason that I forgot about Turco still being in Dallas. I guess the Stars have no intention of winning another Cup anytime soon, huh?

[Suburban Rhythm]

More Pens fun...

Jordan Staal in the lineup for tonight's opener...centering the 4th line! :(
I bet thesd 5 minutes a game of ice will really develop him.

[Tekneek]

More Pens fun...

Jordan Staal in the lineup for tonight's opener...centering the 4th line! :(
I bet thesd 5 minutes a game of ice will really develop him.

How much ice time per game was Joe Thornton getting in his rookie season?

[Pumpy Tudors]

I need a new Devils cap to wear to the Igloo when New Jersey visits Pittsburgh on the 18th. Quick, somebody recommend an online store that I could buy from!

[Tekneek]

I need a new Devils cap to wear to the Igloo when New Jersey visits Pittsburgh on the 18th. Quick, somebody recommend an online store that I could buy from!

shop.nhl.com

[Draft Dodger]

well, now I can't use any of my Dallas in playoff form jokes...

[RGunner]

Whoa, seeing Marty Turco's name in RGunner's post surprised me. I guess I was so consumed by the Devils' offseason that I forgot about Turco still being in Dallas. I guess the Stars have no intention of winning another Cup anytime soon, huh?

:mad: so true too, maybe one of these years he'll play good in the playoffs...highly unlikely though..

[Suburban Rhythm]

How much ice time per game was Joe Thornton getting in his rookie season?

Do you think that helped or slowed Thornton's progress?

And, if as most assume, they are going to send him back to Peterborough after his 9 games, why even keep him here at all?

If you want to make the argument that 82 games at NHL speed, even on the 4th line, will help, OK. I don't know if I buy it, but I can see the arguement.
But how does 9 games at NHL speed help?

[bbor]

How much ice time per game was Joe Thornton getting in his rookie season?

I actually think this is what made Thortons career.Playing on a 4th line with no pressure or spotlights on him.I also think it is what made him one of the better defensive forwards in the league.

[bbor]

The Marlboros played a great game against the Senators last night.Who would have ever thought a AHL team could keep the mighty Sens in check.If the Sens can't blow out an AHL team how will they ever win a cup?

Now i am just wondering when the Leafs players are gonna play instead of the farm team.They did know that the regular season started last night right?I mean exhibition play has been over for a week...no?

BTW Leaf fans.....There is a new "givaway" Gill in town...are'nt ya excited!

[bbor]

The Marlboros played a great game against the Senators last night.Who would have ever thought a AHL team could keep the mighty Sens in check.If the Sens can't blow out an AHL team how will they ever win a cup?

Now i am just wondering when the Leafs players are gonna play instead of the farm team.They did know that the regular season started last night right?I mean exhibition play has been over for a week...no?

BTW Leaf fans.....There is a new "givaway" Gill in town...are'nt ya excited!

[DeToxRox]

Tonight in Detroit the Wings will introduce the two assisstants and the captain last. It's pretty apparent Lidstrom has the C. The A's are probably Zetterburg and Draper but we'll see. Yzerman will be dropping the puck so the Joe will be rocking tonight.

[Draft Dodger]

I actually think this is what made Thortons career.Playing on a 4th line with no pressure or spotlights on him.I also think it is what made him one of the better defensive forwards in the league.

true, but I think he also had the right mental makeup for this to work. A lot of star players need some a wee bit of coddling - put them over their head, or in a place where they aren't going to be a key player and they tend to go backwards. or so "they" say.

[Pumpy Tudors]

After seeing mention of the Red Wings and their captaincy, I'm wondering if and when the Devils will finally name Elias the captain. If he's worth signing to that big contract (and he is worth it), give the man a "C" on his sweater. Scott Stevens ain't coming back, and neither is Scott Niedermayer. Hook my man Patrik up with the "C." How difficult is this?

I also think that Colin White should be stripped of his "A", but I'll try not to get into the Colin White bashing too soon. :)

[Johnny93g]

The Marlboros played a great game against the Senators last night.Who would have ever thought a AHL team could keep the mighty Sens in check.If the Sens can't blow out an AHL team how will they ever win a cup?

Now i am just wondering when the Leafs players are gonna play instead of the farm team.They did know that the regular season started last night right?I mean exhibition play has been over for a week...no?

BTW Leaf fans.....There is a new "givaway" Gill in town...are'nt ya excited!

I thought Pohl played well. That's about it for the kids. Noone else impressed me. I had high hopes for Ian White. I thought he skated well with the puck, but he turned the puck over a few times. I thought Ponikarovsky had an awful game. He couldnt control one puck that went near him. ugh. The pre-game ceremony honoring Salming, Day, and Kelly was awesome though!!!

[DeToxRox]

After seeing mention of the Red Wings and their captaincy, I'm wondering if and when the Devils will finally name Elias the captain. If he's worth signing to that big contract (and he is worth it), give the man a "C" on his sweater. Scott Stevens ain't coming back, and neither is Scott Niedermayer. Hook my man Patrik up with the "C." How difficult is this?

I also think that Colin White should be stripped of his "A", but I'll try not to get into the Colin White bashing too soon. :)

Haha well Modano lost his C so White can surely lose his A.

Lidstrom will be the Wings C till he retires. This is probably his last contract so Z will soon be the man here in Detroit.

[sachmo71]

After seeing mention of the Red Wings and their captaincy, I'm wondering if and when the Devils will finally name Elias the captain. If he's worth signing to that big contract (and he is worth it), give the man a "C" on his sweater. Scott Stevens ain't coming back, and neither is Scott Niedermayer. Hook my man Patrik up with the "C." How difficult is this?

I also think that Colin White should be stripped of his "A", but I'll try not to get into the Colin White bashing too soon. :)

Mogilny had (or has) a huge contract. Some guys just aren't "C" material.

[bbor]

I thought Pohl played well. That's about it for the kids. Noone else impressed me. I had high hopes for Ian White. I thought he skated well with the puck, but he turned the puck over a few times. I thought Ponikarovsky had an awful game. He couldnt control one puck that went near him. ugh. The pre-game ceremony honoring Salming, Day, and Kelly was awesome though!!!

Pohl looked very slow to me as did Gill...Gill got beat huge by Neil for crying out loud...he;s a goon not even a real player.I can honestly say as i sit here thinking about it that not one Leaf comes to mind as having a strong game.

[Pumpy Tudors]

Mogilny had (or has) a huge contract. Some guys just aren't "C" material.
Patrik Elias is "C" material, though. I didn't mean to suggest that the huge contract is all the evidence of that. It's just that the Devils put themselves over the salary cap to get him signed to a 7-year contract because they know they need him. Heck, the second half of last season proves how much they need him. Of all the Devils who don't wear goalie gear, Patrik Elias is the franchise now. He deserves to be a captain as much as Niedermayer did, and Niedermayer wore the "C" when Stevens was out injured a couple of years ago.

If the Devils ever get around to naming another captain, I could accept it going to Madden or Gionta or even Rafalski, but Elias is the one who should have it, in my opinion. I just don't understand why it hasn't happened yet.

[sachmo71]

I think Madden would be the obvious choice, but I don't know enough about them. I just haven't heard alot about Elias being a leader.

[bbor]

Mickey mouse should be NJ's captain:)

[Draft Dodger]

Mickey mouse should be NJ's captain:)

shut it, Wayne

[Fidatelo]

Just because Elias is a great player doesn't mean he should be a captain. No one ever 'deserves' to be captain based on their play either. And regardless of what a player might appear to be like, in terms of personality, via the media, the only ones who know if he is 'captain material' are the coaches and players.

[MizzouRah]

Lets...Go...Blues!!!!

[caspanky]

Blues scored quick, but less then 2 minutes later, the Sharks tie it right back up!!! Great tip in!

[caspanky]

K, so 3 goals in just under 4 minutes, this could be high scoring game.

[Maple Leafs]

We won a blowout in the regular season! We'll be Stanley Cup champions for sure! Running up the score when the opponent is having a bad night is the sign of a true champion!

(Sorry, just wanted to see what it was like to think like a Sens fan.)

Good game tonight. Let's hope they don't give it right back against the Habs on Saturday.

[MizzouRah]

K, so 3 goals in just under 4 minutes, this could be high scoring game.

No penalties yet either? Wow.. interesting.

[caspanky]

1st Penalty, Hooking 8:37 in. Sharks on the power play!

[caspanky]

K, no goal on the power play, but that was some of the best puck movement I've seen from the sharks ever on a power play. some great quality scoring chances, just need to finish it off.

[klayman]

I think this will be the season that Maple Leafs finally snaps and goes on a killing spree.

[Maple Leafs]

I think this will be the season that Maple Leafs finally snaps and goes on a killing spree.
That's just ridiculous. What do you think I do, just sneak around engaging in random acts of violence (http://sports.yahoo.com/nhl/news?slug=cp-nhl_notebook_tab&prov=cp&type=lgns)?

[bbor]

I think this will be the season that Maple Leafs finally snaps and goes on a killing spree.

Too late? :D

[klayman]

That's just ridiculous. What do you think I do, just sneak around engaging in random acts of violence (http://sports.yahoo.com/nhl/news?slug=cp-nhl_notebook_tab&prov=cp&type=lgns)?

That was hardly random. Kerry has a picture of you along with a letter that says "if anything happens to him, this picture is of the guy that probably did it."

but then, so do I. :)

[Johnny93g]

That's just ridiculous. What do you think I do, just sneak around engaging in random acts of violence (http://sports.yahoo.com/nhl/news?slug=cp-nhl_notebook_tab&prov=cp&type=lgns)?

You are my hero:cool: :cool: :cool:

[caspanky]

"I fell. I broke my toe in three spots but the TV survived."

Well, at least he saved the TV.

[caspanky]

As much as I would have liked to have seen them overturn that goal, I agree with the call. Nice deflection. Tied up 3-3.

[caspanky]

Woohoo!! Sharks Win!! 5-4 in OT

Couple thoughts about the game:

-I hope that the ref that took the puck to the face is alright.
-As exciting as that game was, i really don't wanna see 81 more games like that for the Sharks. Games like this make you really appreaciate those "boring" 2-0 games.
-3 hours for a hockey game? Interesting night, lots of delays. Ref injury, broken boards, couple replays.
-I need to find some money to get to a couple games this season.

[Suburban Rhythm]

At their current pace, Sid Crosby, Michel Oullet and Jarkko Ruutu will all score 82 goals, tally 82 assists, for a total of 164 points. That is PROBABLY good enough for a 3-way tie for the Art Ross. I don't believe Petr Sykora and Steve Reinprecht can keep up their pace.

And MA Fleury will be 82-0, with an 0.00 GAA and 82 shutouts.

I love making predictions based on first games! ;)

On a slightly more serious note...as the Pens were trying to preserve the shutout, with about 40 seconds to go, who should Michel Therrien put out at center? Jordan Staal! That speaks volumes about an 18 year old.

[Pumpy Tudors]

Just because Elias is a great player doesn't mean he should be a captain. No one ever 'deserves' to be captain based on their play either. And regardless of what a player might appear to be like, in terms of personality, via the media, the only ones who know if he is 'captain material' are the coaches and players.
Obviously, I can only give my opinion based on what I do know. I'm not in the dressing room, and I've never met any of the players, so I don't know. My point about Elias is that he seems to be captain material, and the Devils must think so, too, as they just named him the captain last night (http://msn.foxsports.com/nhl/story/6034062).

[bronconick]

Woohoo!! Sharks Win!! 5-4 in OT

Couple thoughts about the game:

-I hope that the ref that took the puck to the face is alright.
-As exciting as that game was, i really don't wanna see 81 more games like that for the Sharks. Games like this make you really appreaciate those "boring" 2-0 games.
-3 hours for a hockey game? Interesting night, lots of delays. Ref injury, broken boards, couple replays.
-I need to find some money to get to a couple games this season.

Gorges is brutal. Either Davison or Murray needs to take his spot because a bunch of St. Louis' actual scoring chances came from simply muscling him off the puck and going to the net. He needs to add about 15 pounds of muscle to be effective at all.

[JonInMiddleGA]

Meanwhile, in Atlanta, the new Thrashers reminded me a lot of the old Thrashers.

Led Tampa 2-0 after the 1st period, then managed only 2 SOG in the next 35 minutes, blowing the lead & eventually losing the SO.

Meanwhile, this quote from newcomer Steve Rucchin looks like something from recycled from many nights last season
"You get out of it pretty much what you put into it. It wasn't a very good 5-on-5 effort from our part. Maybe there was a lack of composure. We never had the puck to do anything. We chased all night and played a little sloppy."

Sigh. Don Waddell, your time is almost up.

[sachmo71]

Obviously, I can only give my opinion based on what I do know. I'm not in the dressing room, and I've never met any of the players, so I don't know. My point about Elias is that he seems to be captain material, and the Devils must think so, too, as they just named him the captain last night (http://msn.foxsports.com/nhl/story/6034062).

Congrats!

[MizzouRah]

Woohoo!! Sharks Win!! 5-4 in OT

Couple thoughts about the game:

-I hope that the ref that took the puck to the face is alright.
-As exciting as that game was, i really don't wanna see 81 more games like that for the Sharks. Games like this make you really appreaciate those "boring" 2-0 games.
-3 hours for a hockey game? Interesting night, lots of delays. Ref injury, broken boards, couple replays.
-I need to find some money to get to a couple games this season.

I fell asleep, but I'll take the point.

[Fidatelo]

Obviously, I can only give my opinion based on what I do know. I'm not in the dressing room, and I've never met any of the players, so I don't know. My point about Elias is that he seems to be captain material, and the Devils must think so, too, as they just named him the captain last night (http://msn.foxsports.com/nhl/story/6034062).

I'm just pointing out that it doesn't make sense for people to say things like "so and so deserves to be captain". I'm all for arm-chair quarterbacking most things about pro sports, but it just doesn't fit when it comes to something like team captain.

[Pumpy Tudors]

I'm just pointing out that it doesn't make sense for people to say things like "so and so deserves to be captain". I'm all for arm-chair quarterbacking most things about pro sports, but it just doesn't fit when it comes to something like team captain.
OK, then.

[sachmo71]

I'm just pointing out that it doesn't make sense for people to say things like "so and so deserves to be captain". I'm all for arm-chair quarterbacking most things about pro sports, but it just doesn't fit when it comes to something like team captain.

Except in this case, it appears he was pretty much on the mark. So i'll listen to armchair pumpy from now on. :D

[caspanky]

-I hope that the ref that took the puck to the face is alright.

http://sports.espn.go.com/nhl/news/story?id=2615680

Some good news there. Sounds like the ref's okay, nothing serious. Gonna get a week off from work, but sounds like he'll be alright.

[Draft Dodger]

speaking of, Mick McGeough, he actually looks even more ridiculous with a real helmet on his helmet-head

[sterlingice]

After 1 game, the Blackhawks lead the Central and are in a playoff spot and tied for tops in the league in scoring :D

SI

[Tekneek]

speaking of, Mick McGeough, he actually looks even more ridiculous with a real helmet on his helmet-head

He had a helmet head? Are you thinking of Kerry Fraser?

[Draft Dodger]

He had a helmet head? Are you thinking of Kerry Fraser?

nah. Fraser was king, but McGeough had a pretty good funky coiff going on as well

[Pumpy Tudors]

The Devils absolutely destroyed the Candy Canes on Friday night. It's a great start to the season, and the new captain scored a goal. Brodeur was especially sharp late in the second period when the Canes were trying to get back into the game. Zach Parise is also looking strong, and I'm expecting a big season out of him. I hope he doesn't disappoint me!

[dervack]

After 1 game, the Blackhawks lead the Central and are in a playoff spot and tied for tops in the league in scoring :D

SI
See told u.

[Logan]

Rangers have now scored in the first minute of both games this season. Nylander puts one on the board.

[sachmo71]

The Devils absolutely destroyed the Candy Canes on Friday night. It's a great start to the season, and the new captain scored a goal. Brodeur was especially sharp late in the second period when the Canes were trying to get back into the game. Zach Parise is also looking strong, and I'm expecting a big season out of him. I hope he doesn't disappoint me!

Devils left a lot of pucks sitting around in the slot tonight.

[Pumpy Tudors]

Devils left a lot of pucks sitting around in the slot tonight.
Very true. A lot of things went wrong for the Devils in Dallas last night. Having to play in Raleigh one night and Dallas the next may be a little taxing, but there's no excuse for not playing good defense. The Devils were moving in the wrong direction all night, and I guess it's good for them to get this out of their system now and regroup before Thursday's game with Toronto.

[sachmo71]

Very true. A lot of things went wrong for the Devils in Dallas last night. Having to play in Raleigh one night and Dallas the next may be a little taxing, but there's no excuse for not playing good defense. The Devils were moving in the wrong direction all night, and I guess it's good for them to get this out of their system now and regroup before Thursday's game with Toronto.

I thought they played well, overall, but was surpsied by the defensive lapses and lack of a sustained rush off of turnovers. Brodeur made some huge saves, though. He's friggin' amazing...still.

[Suburban Rhythm]

Pens are brought back to earth Saturday night vs. DET.

They only put up 13 shots against the Wings...it was a whole different game, as opposed to Philly, since the Wings actually had D that could skate!

Still, compared to seasons past, when the Pens would have lost that game 8-0, this is an upgrade. They were in this game until the final 2 minutes or so.

Is this what they call a moral victory?

[Honolulu_Blue]

Pens are brought back to earth Saturday night vs. DET.

They only put up 13 shots against the Wings...it was a whole different game, as opposed to Philly, since the Wings actually had D that could skate!

Still, compared to seasons past, when the Pens would have lost that game 8-0, this is an upgrade. They were in this game until the final 2 minutes or so.

Is this what they call a moral victory?

It was a solid defensive effort by the Wings on Saturday. They looked very organized in their own end and backchecked well.

Hrmmm... A good defensive effort and Lilja was a healthy scratch... Coencidence? Oh, I think not.

[MizzouRah]

Is it me, or are they calling TONS and TONS of penalties this year. I've only watched two games, but it's to the point where it makes me want to turn the channel.

[Suburban Rhythm]

Is it me, or are they calling TONS and TONS of penalties this year. I've only watched two games, but it's to the point where it makes me want to turn the channel.

Same as last October.

Last year was players adjusting to the new rules--or, really, the old rules finally being called.

This year, I guess it is the players testing the officials to see if they'll call the new rules, er...old rules applied in the new method...the same way they did last year.

[Oilers9911]

Edmonton looked pretty good against Calgary in the home and home. All the doomsayers predicting them for 12th in the West (Hello Hockey News) are going to be eating crow.

[Karim]

Edmonton looked pretty good against Calgary in the home and home. All the doomsayers predicting them for 12th in the West (Hello Hockey News) are going to be eating crow.

I went to Calgary's home opener. Edmonton has among the deepest corps of skilled forwards in the league and their "no name" defence seem to be able to do the job. Smid impressed me in terms of his composure for a 20 year old. I still don't particularly like Bergeron except on the offensive side of things. Smith and Staios can play on any team. There's no doubt in my mind that Edmonton makes the playoffs.

[Draft Dodger]

I think Edmonton wins the NW. It's going to be a dogfight, though - there's potential to be 4 really good teams (plus Vancouver) out there.

[Tekneek]

The penalties seem down compared to this point last year. I don't see it affecting the enjoyment of the game for me. I blame the players for the penalties most of the time. I only blame the officials when the calls aren't consistent.

[Draft Dodger]

Hurricanes C Kevyn Adams suffered a cut over his left eye in a fight with teammate Bret Hedican midway through an hour-long skating session as the tension of a winless season overflowed on the RecZone ice. - Raleigh News Observer

sweet

[Honolulu_Blue]

Hurricanes C Kevyn Adams suffered a cut over his left eye in a fight with teammate Bret Hedican midway through an hour-long skating session as the tension of a winless season overflowed on the RecZone ice. - Raleigh News Observer

sweet

Way to kick some ass, Mr. Yamaguchi!

Wow. They've only lost, what, two games? And they are already resulting to fistacuffs?

[Honolulu_Blue]

Ouch!

Early reports indicate that Pavel Kubina is out for the year. Torn ACL. I saw the play when it happened. It didn't look good at all. An accidental knee-on-knee play and Kubina's knee buckled sideways.

Early reports appear to be wrong. Now it's being reported as an MCL sprain. Only 4-6 weeks...

More to come.

[JonInMiddleGA]

Back to back shut outs for Lehtonen, Thrashers avenge their season opening home loss by beating Tampa 1-0 on the road.

Still not much sign of offense against TB (vs Florida was obviously a different story completely), not sure what to make of the Thrashers yet, probably aren't going to know what they'll accomplish until the lines get settled.

[MizzouRah]

Blues home opener tonight vs the Bruins and I will be on the blue line 2 rows up!!! These tickets cost $108 and my buddy called to see if I wanted to go. Are you kidding me? FOR FREE? Hell YES!! :)

[cartman]

The new Lehtinen-Modano-Lindros line for the Stars is looking pretty unstoppable early on this seaosn. Now if they can keep Lindros from getting more concussions....

[RGunner]

The new Lehtinen-Modano-Lindros line for the Stars is looking pretty unstoppable early on this seaosn. Now if they can keep Lindros from getting more concussions....

If Lindros can stay healthy (a BIG IF) I believe he could have a big season, especially alongside Lehtinen and Modano....also hopefully Miettinen and Jokinen can have good years, and maybe Turco can keep it up in the playoffs but we are looking pretty good, albeit thru 2 games and 1 period tonight up 2-0 against the kings

[RGunner]

actually, tonight its Morrow-Modano-Lindros and Lindros has 2 assists and Morrow/Modano both have a goal and an assist each...pretty good start

[Karim]

Iginla scores a goal and Kipper gets the shutout. The Flames' "system" is working to perfection. :rolleyes:

As one local scribe wrote, "Calgary is where goal scorers come to die." Exhibit A is Alex Tanguay who looks completely lost in this defence-first system.

[Draft Dodger]

As one local scribe wrote, "Calgary is where goal scorers come to die." Exhibit A is Alex Tanguay who looks completely lost in this defence-first system.

I don't understand how anyone can be surprised by this.

[Suburban Rhythm]

Wild game in the Garden last night. Pens win 6-5, Corsby scores with 3.3 seconds left, on the PP, firing a shot of Aaron Ward's skate past Lundqvist.

Special teams take over the game after a scoreless 1st period. 7 PP goals between them, a 4-4 goal by Jagr.

And, Jordan Staal scores his first NHL goal on a shortie.
Also, one the the PP goals was a 5-3 goal by fellow rookie, 19 year old Kris "The drink of the French Canadian Astronauts" Letang.

[sterlingice]

Also, one the the PP goals was a 5-3 goal by fellow rookie, 19 year old Kris "The drink of the French Canadian Astronauts" Letang.

Ok, I admit it. That line made me laugh :)

SI

[Pumpy Tudors]

I was bowling last night, so I didn't get to see the Devils beat Toronto, but the Penguins game was on at the bowling center. I wish I had paid attention at the end of the game because it would've been great to see the Rangers go down with a few seconds left.

I hope to attend at least three or four Penguins games this year. It's a little hard when tickets are kind of expensive and the arena is 35 miles away. I've already got my tickets for next Wednesday, though. The shame is that this will probably be the only time I'm cheering for the visiting team. Go Devils! :)

[Suburban Rhythm]

I was bowling last night, so I didn't get to see the Devils beat Toronto, but the Penguins game was on at the bowling center. I wish I had paid attention at the end of the game because it would've been great to see the Rangers go down with a few seconds left.

I hope to attend at least three or four Penguins games this year. It's a little hard when tickets are kind of expensive and the arena is 35 miles away. I've already got my tickets for next Wednesday, though. The shame is that this will probably be the only time I'm cheering for the visiting team. Go Devils! :)


I've got an offer you CAN'T refuse...check your PMs

[sachmo71]

The Stars color guy does a call in on the local sports network every week. It was nice to hear him talk about how well Lindros and Modano are getting along...something that didn't happen with Guerin. Team atmosphere is a huge deal, and this is the sort of thing that let's guys play up to their potential. Hopefully it will last, but having the black cloud removed will make the season much more enjoyable.

[Oilers9911]

Oilers rally from 4-1 down to beat the Sharks 6-4. Ryan Smyth scores a natural hat-trick (3 straight goals) to lead the way. The strange thing is that was the THIRD natural hat-trick last night and the second in the same game! Gionta for NJ and Cheechoo for SJ got the others. Smyth also broke Gretzky's record for fastest 3 goals by an Oiler. What a night in the NHL.

[RGunner]

The Stars color guy does a call in on the local sports network every week. It was nice to hear him talk about how well Lindros and Modano are getting along...something that didn't happen with Guerin. Team atmosphere is a huge deal, and this is the sort of thing that let's guys play up to their potential. Hopefully it will last, but having the black cloud removed will make the season much more enjoyable.

I agree, I never though that Guerin and Modano meshed very well together, but Lindros is off to a GREAT start after 3 games, granted its early but 5 points in 3 games is something I didnt expect out of him...

[Draft Dodger]

Oilers rally from 4-1 down to beat the Sharks 6-4. Ryan Smyth scores a natural hat-trick (3 straight goals) to lead the way. The strange thing is that was the THIRD natural hat-trick last night and the second in the same game! Gionta for NJ and Cheechoo for SJ got the others. Smyth also broke Gretzky's record for fastest 3 goals by an Oiler. What a night in the NHL.

I think I might have had all three of them on my yahoo fantasy team last year. I know I had Gionta and Cheechoo. I think I had mulletman too

[Honolulu_Blue]

Oilers rally from 4-1 down to beat the Sharks 6-4. Ryan Smyth scores a natural hat-trick (3 straight goals) to lead the way. The strange thing is that was the THIRD natural hat-trick last night and the second in the same game! Gionta for NJ and Cheechoo for SJ got the others. Smyth also broke Gretzky's record for fastest 3 goals by an Oiler. What a night in the NHL.

I was surprised when I woke up and saw the final score. I watched the first period or so, right up to the point it was 3-1, or perhaps 4-2. San Jose looked be clicking on all cylinders there. Edmonton are reslient and have probably the deepest forward corps in the league. Roloson is good enough in goal to keep them in games and to make up for the inexperienced defense.

Phoenix is a bad team. Very, very bad. Granted the Wings scored a lot of very odd goals in their 9-2 romp, but Phoenix were just listless and lifeless. I don't know how a team with Roenick, Owen Nolan, Doan, Laraque, etc. could be so flat and emotionless. They didn't even try to generate something by hitting the Wings. There's no softer team in the league than the Red Wings and the Coyotes just tucked their tails between their legs and took their whoopings. Gretzky has to do better.

[MizzouRah]

What a game last night, Blues wait until 4 mins is left in the 3rd period and come back to tie... then they win it in the shootout!!

I will say, Kessel looks great for Boston. He's going to be a good one. I didn't know Chara was that friggin big either.. wow.

[Pyser]

what a devils game last night. gionta had a natural hat trick in the 3rd, last one coming with 30 seconds left to tie it up at 6, then the win in the shootout.

which, really amazingly, makes it twice in their last 4 regular season games the devils have overcome a 3 goal defecit in the 3rd....though admittedly, it was WAY more impressive in the final game of the year last year, coming down from 3-0 to win not only the game, but also the atlantic division.

anyway. last 6-6 game we'll see from the devs in a long time.

[Johnny93g]

what a devils game last night. gionta had a natural hat trick in the 3rd, last one coming with 30 seconds left to tie it up at 6, then the win in the shootout.

which, really amazingly, makes it twice in their last 4 regular season games the devils have overcome a 3 goal defecit in the 3rd....though admittedly, it was WAY more impressive in the final game of the year last year, coming down from 3-0 to win not only the game, but also the atlantic division.

anyway. last 6-6 game we'll see from the devs in a long time.

Sloppiest game I have seen this year. Both goalies were awful, both teams were awful. They should have given both teams losses and noone gets any points!!!

[Draft Dodger]

Sloppiest game I have seen this year. Both goalies were awful, both teams were awful. They should have given both teams losses and noone gets any points!!!

instead, thanks to goofy NHL rules, 3 points are given out to the teams instead of 2...

[Maple Leafs]

instead, thanks to goofy NHL rules, 3 points are given out to the teams instead of 2...
You mean you didn't feel like that game was magically 50% more important than all the others?

[bbor]

Any NHL game that gets 12 goals in one game is special.

[bbor]

Dola....going to see the Flames and Leafs tommorrow night.Hopefully the Flames won't trap all night.

[Wolfpack]

Yeay! Hurricanes are off the schnide! Though they tried their best to stay on it after coughing up a 3-0 first period lead. Whitney bails them out with a last-second goal to avoid OT. Moving onto Pittsburgh tomorrow night, but Orpik won't be around for his debt repayment as I understand it. I'll lay money he'll be a scratch for any games in Raleigh this year, as well.

[Karim]

Dola....going to see the Flames and Leafs tommorrow night.Hopefully the Flames won't trap all night.

This is a misconception. People still think they got to the Cup by trapping. They dump and chase, cycle-down low, forecheck and backcheck hard but they don't trap or do a 1-2-2 from the start of the game waiting for turnovers like you used to see with the Devils and Wild. Of course, they'll trap IF they get a lead, which is a pretty commonplace strategy.

Against the Sens, they generated many scoring chances but they just couldn't finish. I don't know what the expectations are but it's definitely defence first. They don't have free reign once they cross the blue line and if they miss defensive responsibilities, it results in decreased ice-time. This seems to make creative players fearful of making mistakes rather than taking that chance to do something special.

I'm a die hard Flames fan and will be until I die but even I will admit it really sucks to watch, even when it results in a victory. The most exciting thing to look forward to is a Phaneuf bodycheck.

[Tekneek]

As one local scribe wrote, "Calgary is where goal scorers come to die." Exhibit A is Alex Tanguay who looks completely lost in this defence-first system.

I never thought he was a great acquisition, but I concede that Sutter should know a lot more than me about NHL players. :)

I thought Tanguay was made better by his teammates with Colorado, which is something he isn't going to get as much of with Calgary.

[Tekneek]

I'm a die hard Flames fan and will be until I die but even I will admit it really sucks to watch, even when it results in a victory. The most exciting thing to look forward to is a Phaneuf bodycheck.

I have been a bit of a Flames fan, despite the Oilers being my favorite team. Too often the Flames seem to suck the life out of a game. It's refreshing to see someone actually admit that when it comes to "their team."

The "Battle of Alberta" would be incredible if they brought an "up-tempo" game to the ice. It would be more like the late 80s.

[Oilers9911]

You mean you didn't feel like that game was magically 50% more important than all the others?

The extra point (though I disagree with awarding it) doesn't make a game 50% more important than any other. There are still 2 points available to the winning team and 1 point available to the losing team if they happen to not lose in regulation. Doesn't make it a good rule but the points available to all teams are the same.

[Tekneek]

TThere are still 2 points available to the winning team and 1 point available to the losing team if they happen to not lose in regulation. Doesn't make it a good rule but the points available to all teams are the same.

I know this has probably been discussed numerous times, but what system would you rather have? My ideal one would give no points for losing and points to the winner based on the way they win:

3 points for a regulation win
2 points for an overtime win
1 point for a shootout win
0 points for losing

[Oilers9911]

I prefer keeping it simple. You win you get 2 points, you lose you get 0 points. Or if they have to award single points then 2 points for a win, 1 point for an OT or shootout win and 0 for a loss.

[Maple Leafs]

The extra point (though I disagree with awarding it) doesn't make a game 50% more important than any other. There are still 2 points available to the winning team and 1 point available to the losing team if they happen to not lose in regulation. Doesn't make it a good rule but the points available to all teams are the same.
But they're not. Toronto and New Jersey got to split up three points, other teams only got two.

Here's an example of how the rule isn't fair. Last year, on the last weekend of the season, the Leafs played the Senators and the Lightning played the Hurricanes. The game was important for all four teams -- the Leafs and Lightning were fighting for the last playoff spot, and the Canes and Sens were battling for first in the conference and home ice.

The Leafs beat the Sens in a blowout, and the Lightning beat the Hurricanes in OT. Now all four teams needed points desperately, but the TB/CAR game ended up being worth more than the TOR/OTT game. Why? Why should Ottawa lose ground to Carolina when they both lost, but Toronto and Tampa Bay's wins be treated the same? It doesn't make sense.

Imagine the NFL giving out a win-and-a-half for certain games. It would never happen, because it would be bush league stuff.

And for the record, I think the league should go with this sytem:
- 3 points for a regulation win
- 2 points for an OT/SO win
- 1 point for an OT/SO loss
- 0 points for a regulation loss

This would accomplish two important things that are missing from today's system:
- All games are worth the same -- three points up for grabs, every night
- Give some incentive to actually try to score at the end of regulation (instead of doing what most teams do, barring a powerplay -- sit back, do nothing and wait for OT)

[RPI-Fan]

...

And for the record, I think the league should go with this sytem:
- 3 points for a regulation win
- 2 points for an OT/SO win
- 1 point for an OT/SO loss
- 0 points for a regulation loss

...

...I've been saying this since the Shootout was announced (and even seriously proposed).

[Wolfpack]

Rednecked heretic that I am, I'd just as soon squash the points altogether and just make it wins and losses. If need be you could factor wins and losses by shootout into tiebreakers.

[Maple Leafs]

...I've been saying this since the Shootout was announced (and even seriously proposed).
Yeah, I certainly didn't invent it and I think there's a lot of fans who'd prefer it to the current system. (I'd also prefer a system where every game was worth two points to what we have now.)

One argument against it is that now the old records don't mean anything. But I hear we have computers these days that could take all those old point totals and multiply them by 1.5. Instead of 100 points being considered a good season, it would be 150. It would take some getting used to, but not that much.

And besides, you wouldn't have the problem you have today where everyone's winning percentages don't even average out to .500. How is there any integrity in a system like that? Look at the Leafs right now... are they over or under .500? They've won two games and lost three, but have six points out of ten. I guess they're both.

(The one nice side effect is that so far this year, the Leafs have played five games that the NHL feels have been worth 13 points. This is mathematical proof of what I've been saying all along -- the Leafs are the most important team in the NHL!)

[DeToxRox]

Yeah, I certainly didn't invent it and I think there's a lot of fans who'd prefer it to the current system. (I'd also prefer a system where every game was worth two points to what we have now.)

One argument against it is that now the old records don't mean anything. But I hear we have computers these days that could take all those old point totals and multiply them by 1.5. Instead of 100 points being considered a good season, it would be 150. It would take some getting used to, but not that much.

And besides, you wouldn't have the problem you have today where everyone's winning percentages don't even average out to .500. How is there any integrity in a system like that? Look at the Leafs right now... are they over or under .500? They've won two games and lost three, but have six points out of ten. I guess they're both.

(The one nice side effect is that so far this year, the Leafs have played five games that the NHL feels have been worth 13 points. This is mathematical proof of what I've been saying all along -- the Leafs are the most important team in the NHL!)

In October, yes :)

[Maple Leafs]

In October, yes :)
Baby steps.

[Karim]

And for the record, I think the league should go with this sytem:
- 3 points for a regulation win
- 2 points for an OT/SO win
- 1 point for an OT/SO loss
- 0 points for a regulation loss


I dislike awarding failure but otherwise I agree.

- 3 points for a regulation win
- 2 points for an OT win
- 1 point for a SO win
- 0 points for any loss

[Pyser]

And for the record, I think the league should go with this sytem:
- 3 points for a regulation win
- 2 points for an OT/SO win
- 1 point for an OT/SO loss
- 0 points for a regulation loss

This sounds like a great idea, in theory. I wonder how hard it would be for someone to go back to last years standings, and apply this point system, to see how things would've looked had a different point system been employed.

[DeToxRox]

I hate teams getting points for losses. Maybe its the old school in me but 3 points for a regulation win would annoy me to no end. Keep it simple.

[Tekneek]

I hate teams getting points for losses. Maybe its the old school in me but 3 points for a regulation win would annoy me to no end. Keep it simple.

I don't think a team should get the same number of points for a win in OT or the shootout as a team that can win in regulation time. How about we just throw out regular season OT and shootouts. Ties are ties, wins are wins, losses are losses. I actually don't mind that system but apparently people in North America "don't like ties" and so we've been stuck with this 4-on-4 and shootout nonsense.

[klayman]

We should drop the points and just play for "funsies"

[DeToxRox]

I could handle 2 points for a regulation win, 1 point for an OT win.

[DeToxRox]

Phanuef continues to show hes the best defensemen in the NHL

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ELSZTel1oq0

What a shot.

[Maple Leafs]

The Leafs continue to be The Most Important Team in Hockey™ with yet another three point game. Tonight, Sundin dials up the drama with a goal that is a.) the game winner, b.) short-handed in overtime, c.) his third of the game, d.) oh, also the 500th of his career.

Now this part is going to sound bad. JohnnyG, bbor, I need your backup here.

On tonight's broadcast, the CBC used Cassie Campbell on color, paired with Bob Cole. Campbell is a former member of the Canadian nation women's team. Her performance tonight was every bit as good as you would expect from someone making their debut on this sort of stage.

Which is to say, she sucked. She was absolutely terrible. Embarassingly bad.

Look, I like Cassie Campbell. She won gold medals for my country, she has really shiny hair, she's pretty cute as compared to Haley "Jeremy Roenick in a bad wig" Wickenheiser, and... um... I think that's pretty much the extent of her resume. I'm sure she's very nice. But she was freaking awful tonight.

She got confused about which player was which at least three times (I saw the third period and OT at a bar so I didn't have volume). She was completely confused by the Flames double penalty in the first. She offered no critcal comments at all (nobody made a mistake all night, apparently). And she provided all the insight that you would expect from somebody with zero NHL experience in any capacity, which is to say, none.

Please, please, don't put her on any more national telecasts. She may be very good at this someday and she deserves to have her chance at it, just like anyone else. Meaning she needs to work her way up, not get airlifted into the top job in the business so she can embarass herself.

And a note to the CBC: if you insist on using a color person who doesn't know the players, the rules, or the league: for the love of god, don't pair them with Bob Cole! I love Cole, I really do, but he tends to be ... um ... "imprecise" in his calls these days. He needs someone like Harry Neale who can subtlely correct him, not some babbling brook who's going to somehow manage to be even more wrong.

And yes, it takes this little to ruin my Saturday night.

[JonInMiddleGA]

Thrashers win 4-3 in OT at Washington, as Kovalchuk finally gets his 1st goal of the season on a game-winning breakaway.

[Simms]

Now this part is going to sound bad. JohnnyG, bbor, I need your backup here.

Hey...just 'cause I fled the country doesn't mean I don't get Center Ice. :)

On tonight's broadcast, the CBC used Cassie Campbell on color, paired with Bob Cole. Campbell is a former member of the Canadian nation women's team. Her performance tonight was every bit as good as you would expect from someone making their debut on this sort of stage.

Which is to say, she sucked. She was absolutely terrible. Embarassingly bad.

Look, I like Cassie Campbell. She won gold medals for my country, she has really shiny hair, she's pretty cute as compared to Haley "Jeremy Roenick in a bad wig" Wickenheiser, and... um... I think that's pretty much the extent of her resume. I'm sure she's very nice. But she was freaking awful tonight.

She got confused about which player was which at least three times (I saw the third period and OT at a bar so I didn't have volume). She was completely confused by the Flames double penalty in the first. She offered no critcal comments at all (nobody made a mistake all night, apparently). And she provided all the insight that you would expect from somebody with zero NHL experience in any capacity, which is to say, none.

Please, please, don't put her on any more national telecasts. She may be very good at this someday and she deserves to have her chance at it, just like anyone else. Meaning she needs to work her way up, not get airlifted into the top job in the business so she can embarass herself.

And a note to the CBC: if you insist on using a color person who doesn't know the players, the rules, or the league: for the love of god, don't pair them with Bob Cole! I love Cole, I really do, but he tends to be ... um ... "imprecise" in his calls these days. He needs someone like Harry Neale who can subtlely correct him, not some babbling brook who's going to somehow manage to be even more wrong.

And yes, it takes this little to ruin my Saturday night.

I was occasionally pre-occupied with kids running around and supper, so if there was some kind of lead-in to her appearance, I missed it. At first I thought it was a one-time deal (it seems there was some kind of breast cancer awareness thing going on with Stajan's girlfriend and the pink jersey thing), and I half expected she'd be gone after 5 minutes. When she didn't leave, I started wondering if this was (or would be) a permanent gig.

She seemed....out of place. I agree that a Saturday night Leaf game is an odd baptism for someone just coming into the industry. For a color commentator, she was pretty much devoid of color as far as the game itself was concerned. I noticed long stretches where she just didn't say anything to follow up Bob, and the silence was kind of awkward.

All that said, it wasn't the worst broadcasting debut I've ever seen (Mark Jones, anyone?), and it certainly didn't ruin my night. I'm sure eventually she'll be fine, but I hope they get her some experience in a spotlight that's not quite as bright.

[cartman]

Do you know why Candians do it doggie style?
So they can both watch CBC's Hockey Night in Canada.

Thanks you, thank you, I'll be here all week. Be sure to tip the wait staff.

[bbor]

Why was Campbell doing the color?I was at the game so i did'nt hear her.

Simms...WTF you doing in Virginia??I was wondering why you never came by my store anymore....figured you just thought i was an annoying fuck:)

[Simms]

Simms...WTF you doing in Virginia??

Long story...but the short version is: my former employer in Alexandria tracked me down and made me an offer I couldn't refuse.

I miss T.O. a lot, but overall this is just a better situation for us.

I'll come buy some shoes when we're up for Christmas. :D

[cartman]

It is early on, but it looks like it is going to be a LONG season for the Kings. They've played Dallas tonight and last game, and they have simply looked awful. Whenever they've had a power play, they haven't gotten a shot off, and when the Stars have had a power play, they simply pass it around the Kings zone until they feel like shooting.

The next two games against Anaheim and San Jose will be a good barometer of how good this Stars team is going to be.

[Wolfpack]

Hurricanes lay a whipping on the Pens in Pittsburgh, but once again, the Pens take one of our guys out. This time, they send Letowski to the hospital (though it should be noted that it was ruled a clean hit, even though Letowski had passed the puck and wasn't looking and therefore braced for a check coming from a different direction). Apparently it ended up being a concussion and some stitches, but with the Cole injury still fresh in mind from the last time Carolina played in Pittsburgh, it seems like it's becoming a trend. First Pens game in Raleigh this year should be interesting to see.

At least it looks like the offense is snapping out of whatever funk they were in the first week of the season as they've scored nine goals in two games. New guy Scott Walker netted a pair tonight, which is a good sign.

[NoSkillz]

The Sabres continue their improbable climb toward an 82-0-0 season, spotting the Rangers a two goal lead before dismantling them in clinical fashion.

What a fun team to watch. :cool:

[Johnny93g]

The Leafs continue to be The Most Important Team in Hockey™ with yet another three point game. Tonight, Sundin dials up the drama with a goal that is a.) the game winner, b.) short-handed in overtime, c.) his third of the game, d.) oh, also the 500th of his career.

Now this part is going to sound bad. JohnnyG, bbor, I need your backup here.

On tonight's broadcast, the CBC used Cassie Campbell on color, paired with Bob Cole. Campbell is a former member of the Canadian nation women's team. Her performance tonight was every bit as good as you would expect from someone making their debut on this sort of stage.

Which is to say, she sucked. She was absolutely terrible. Embarassingly bad.

Look, I like Cassie Campbell. She won gold medals for my country, she has really shiny hair, she's pretty cute as compared to Haley "Jeremy Roenick in a bad wig" Wickenheiser, and... um... I think that's pretty much the extent of her resume. I'm sure she's very nice. But she was freaking awful tonight.

She got confused about which player was which at least three times (I saw the third period and OT at a bar so I didn't have volume). She was completely confused by the Flames double penalty in the first. She offered no critcal comments at all (nobody made a mistake all night, apparently). And she provided all the insight that you would expect from somebody with zero NHL experience in any capacity, which is to say, none.

Please, please, don't put her on any more national telecasts. She may be very good at this someday and she deserves to have her chance at it, just like anyone else. Meaning she needs to work her way up, not get airlifted into the top job in the business so she can embarass herself.

And a note to the CBC: if you insist on using a color person who doesn't know the players, the rules, or the league: for the love of god, don't pair them with Bob Cole! I love Cole, I really do, but he tends to be ... um ... "imprecise" in his calls these days. He needs someone like Harry Neale who can subtlely correct him, not some babbling brook who's going to somehow manage to be even more wrong.

And yes, it takes this little to ruin my Saturday night.

LOL...i think you summed this up perfectly. I love Cassie as well. She's a national hero, but when i hear Bob, i want to hear Harry right beside him. I can't remember what, but i saw her do something in the booth a while ago. It was after she retired, but i remember thinking she was embarassing herself. While i dont want her to eventually be a regular color woman on HNIC, im sure we will be seeing her on olympic broadcasts for many years to come

BTW...Sundin's 500th was awesome!!!!!:D

[sachmo71]

Stars getting a bit of revenge on teh Kings for the rough treatment last year...8 goals against the Kings in 8 periods, vs. 1 against.

[Chief Rum]

Hurricanes lay a whipping on the Pens in Pittsburgh, but once again, the Pens take one of our guys out. This time, they send Letowski to the hospital (though it should be noted that it was ruled a clean hit, even though Letowski had passed the puck and wasn't looking and therefore braced for a check coming from a different direction). Apparently it ended up being a concussion and some stitches, but with the Cole injury still fresh in mind from the last time Carolina played in Pittsburgh, it seems like it's becoming a trend. First Pens game in Raleigh this year should be interesting to see.

Actually, I watched that play in slo-mo a time or two tonight, and while Letowski had gotten rid of the puck, it wasn't all that long before. Basically, he made a dumb mistake and decided to watch his play, instead of turning around to see where he was going. If he had, he would have seen the Pit guy (didn't catch who laid it on) coming.

[Chief Rum]

The next two games against Anaheim and San Jose will be a good barometer of how good this Stars team is going to be.

I agree, looking forward to tonight's game. The Ducks have taken seven points from four games while, IMO (and theirs reportedly), not playing their best hockey. This is a team still getting used to each other, but we have a ton of upside. The game against the Stars will be a good early measuring stick.

[RPI-Fan]

Hurricanes lay a whipping on the Pens in Pittsburgh, but once again, the Pens take one of our guys out. This time, they send Letowski to the hospital (though it should be noted that it was ruled a clean hit, even though Letowski had passed the puck and wasn't looking and therefore braced for a check coming from a different direction). Apparently it ended up being a concussion and some stitches, but with the Cole injury still fresh in mind from the last time Carolina played in Pittsburgh, it seems like it's becoming a trend. First Pens game in Raleigh this year should be interesting to see.

At least it looks like the offense is snapping out of whatever funk they were in the first week of the season as they've scored nine goals in two games. New guy Scott Walker netted a pair tonight, which is a good sign.

I thought it was definitely a clean hit... he was just finishing his check, it was not very late at all.

[Pumpy Tudors]

I am in love with Zach Parise. I feel the need to admit this, and since we're all friends here, I feel safe with you guys.

I love Zach Parise.

[Karim]

On tonight's broadcast, the CBC used Cassie Campbell on color, paired with Bob Cole. Campbell is a former member of the Canadian nation women's team. Her performance tonight was every bit as good as you would expect from someone making their debut on this sort of stage.

Which is to say, she sucked. She was absolutely terrible. Embarassingly bad.

Wow. I must know jack shit about hockey. I thought she was good and a complete breath of fresh air in an institution that has grown old and stale. I didn't find her to be out of the loop, she's played at a level greater than any of us have every come close to, and she's been a Flames radio analyst for about two years now so it's not like this is her first gig.

She's better than many guys who are broadcasters but likely will not be given another chance if Maple Leaf's impression is the common one.

[chrisj]

LOL...i think you summed this up perfectly. I love Cassie as well. She's a national hero, but when i hear Bob, i want to hear Harry right beside him.

Please tell me you're joking - when I hear Bob, the last thing I want to hear is Harry right beside him. :rolleyes:

Wow. I must know jack shit about hockey. I thought she was good and a complete breath of fresh air in an institution that has grown old and stale.

I 100% agree.

[RGunner]

Good game going between the Stars and Ducks...2-1 Stars midway through second period and the Ducks just switched goalies....

[cartman]

Good game going between the Stars and Ducks...2-1 Stars midway through second period and the Ducks just switched goalies....

I take it this is on Ch. 27 up in the Metroplex? I can't find it on any of my DirecTV channels.

[RGunner]

I take it this is on Ch. 27 up in the Metroplex? I can't find it on any of my DirecTV channels.

Yep, thats what i am watching it on...Stars taking a lot of dumb penalites as usual for this season, but they scored on a 5 on 3 that tied it then a pretty weak goal by Hagman that has them in the lead...good game though

[RGunner]

Well, Anaheim seems to be slowly falling apart near the end of the second as its 3-1 now...Dallas is looking REALLY good to start this season off...Turco once again playing great, albeit in the regular season like always...

[klayman]

She's better than many guys who are broadcasters but likely will not be given another chance if Maple Leaf's impression is the common one.

Bah. It was a Leafs-Flames game. Not like anybody important was watching anyway :D

[Chief Rum]

Well, Anaheim seems to be slowly falling apart near the end of the second as its 3-1 now...Dallas is looking REALLY good to start this season off...Turco once again playing great, albeit in the regular season like always...

Not so fast. :)

Too bad we fell apart in the second, because if we had maintained our play from the first and third periods, not only would we not have had to score an exciting goal near the end of the third to force overtime, we likely wouldn't have had to go to overtime at all.

We did the same thing against the Islanders on Wednesday, where we dominated them for most of the game, but allowed three awful goals in something like five minutes of the second period. As a result, we went to shootout with them and lost.

Speaking of shootout, if there is a surer way of beating us, I don't know that it exists. My Gawd, we suck at shootouts. This goes back to last year. We had tons of shootous last year, and I think we won maybe two of them (out of 13 or 14, I shit you not). So far this year, oh-for-two.

It was a great game tonight with two high quality squads going at it. Tip of the cap to the Stars for winning the shootout to take this one. I am looking forward to the next seven matchups.

[RGunner]

Not so fast. :)

Too bad we fell apart in the second, because if we had maintained our play from the first and third periods, not only would we not have had to score an exciting goal near the end of the third to force overtime, we likely wouldn't have had to go to overtime at all.

We did the same thing against the Islanders on Wednesday, where we dominated them for most of the game, but allowed three awful goals in something like five minutes of the second period. As a result, we went to shootout with them and lost.

Speaking of shootout, if there is a surer way of beating us, I don't know that it exists. My Gawd, we suck at shootouts. This goes back to last year. We had tons of shootous last year, and I think we won maybe two of them (out of 13 or 14, I shit you not). So far this year, oh-for-two.

It was a great game tonight with two high quality squads going at it. Tip of the cap to the Stars for winning the shootout to take this one. I am looking forward to the next seven matchups.

yea it was a good game...i tend to put the stars as the favorites against basically anyone in a shootout with their history in them, it didnt even look like zubov or jokinen even tried and they scored, and the first save Turco made was pretty sweet

[Chief Rum]

yea it was a good game...i tend to put the stars as the favorites against basically anyone in a shootout with their history in them, it didnt even look like zubov or jokinen even tried and they scored, and the first save Turco made was pretty sweet

Yup, for some reason, against our goaltenders, you don't have to do much to get the puck past them in the shootout. Lord knows why.

Yeah, Turco's desperate stick save was amazing there, because Shannon's move was something else. Totally had him fooled. Hey, rook, just lift the puck a little bit next time!

I think Jiggy may have won an extended stay in the net tonight. He has been very good for the most part, while Bryz has been a little shaky. Doesn't matter in a shootout, though--they both suck there.

[Pumpy Tudors]

Tonight, the Devils and Rangers play each other for the first time this season. Let's see if Jagr throws an ill-advised jab and injures his arm again, just like he did in the playoffs last year. :D

[Draft Dodger]

This sounds like a great idea, in theory. I wonder how hard it would be for someone to go back to last years standings, and apply this point system, to see how things would've looked had a different point system been employed.

I seem to recall someone had done this last year, and the results were surprisingly similar.

[Oilers9911]

Wow. I must know jack shit about hockey. I thought she was good and a complete breath of fresh air in an institution that has grown old and stale. I didn't find her to be out of the loop, she's played at a level greater than any of us have every come close to, and she's been a Flames radio analyst for about two years now so it's not like this is her first gig.

She's better than many guys who are broadcasters but likely will not be given another chance if Maple Leaf's impression is the common one.

Agreed. I certainly did hear he be critical more than once. Examples you say? WHen Tucker drew a penalty on Phaneuf Cassie said "Tucker went down a little easily there" That to me obviously suggests Tucker dove. On the Leafs 3rd goal Cassie said that Iginla losing the battle on the boards was directly responsible for the goal which to me is pretty darn critical. I would say that she did quite a good job, as did Chris Zelkovich the sports media columnist in the Toronto Star.

http://www.thestar.com/NASApp/cs/ContentServer?pagename=thestar/Layout/Article_Type1&c=Article&cid=1160949009889&call_pageid=968867503640&col=970081593064&t=TS_Home

[TazFTW]

Shanny rocks! Go King Henrik!

[Pyser]

Lundqvist was the real deal for the Rangers tonight.

as a devils fan, it hurts me most of all to compliment the rangers, but the devils offense was buzzing, and lundqvist just played phenomenally. cant feel too bad about that loss, though the PP could use some work...

[Honolulu_Blue]

So far in this young season the Red Wings have one of the worst powerplays in the league. Brendan Shanahan is leading the league in powerplay goals... Coincidence? Oh, I think not.

[Draft Dodger]

Jose Theodore looked absolutely dreadful last night (he made Martin Lapointe look darn good) as Colorado's consecutive sellout streak ended at 487.

[Ksyrup]

According to ESPN.com's article about low attendance:

"The Colorado Blackhawks had 8,008 fans in 20,500-seat United Center the same night."


Well, no wonder. That's a hell of a commute for most Colorado fans!

[sterlingice]

According to ESPN.com's article about low attendance:

"The Colorado Blackhawks had 8,008 fans in 20,500-seat United Center the same night."

The Hawks are good enough getting non-sellouts without ESPN.com's help.

SI

[DeToxRox]

So far in this young season the Red Wings have one of the worst powerplays in the league. Brendan Shanahan is leading the league in powerplay goals... Coincidence? Oh, I think not.

Only because it's October and not April.

[cartman]

Both goalies are looking strong so far tonight in the Stars-Sharks game.

[RGunner]

Both goalies are looking strong so far tonight in the Stars-Sharks game.

yea...San Jose is completely dominating this game though

[Pumpy Tudors]

In about 20 hours, I'll be in Mellon Arena. I'll be dressed in a Devils hat and a Devils jersey, clutching a Sidney Crosby bobblehead, and preparing to see Evgeni Malkin's NHL debut. This should be fun, and I'm going to be dog tired at work on Thursday. :D

[bbor]

In about 20 hours, I'll be in Mellon Arena. I'll be dressed in a Devils hat and a Devils jersey, clutching a Sidney Crosby bobblehead, and preparing to see Evgeni Malkin's NHL debut. This should be fun, and I'm going to be dog tired at work on Thursday. :D


You're not a face painter are you?:)

[Pumpy Tudors]

You're not a face painter are you?:)
Gosh, I wish!

[bbor]

Gosh, I wish!

Will you at least wear mickey mouse ears?

[sterlingice]

In about 20 hours, I'll be in Mellon Arena. I'll be dressed in a Devils hat and a Devils jersey, clutching a Sidney Crosby bobblehead, and preparing to see Evgeni Malkin's NHL debut. This should be fun, and I'm going to be dog tired at work on Thursday. :D

http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y268/sterlingice/smileys/ttiuwpp.gif

SI

[bbor]

Dola..Malkins back already??

[NoSkillz]

The Sabres are getting scary...they made the Flyers look like a team of beer leaguers tonight. 9 to 1??

[Wolfpack]

Yikes. Carolina's recent run of good play will be put to a sore test in Buffalo. Of course, I can always think back to last year when Ottawa had a long win streak to start the season and we ended that. Then again, I think that one was at home....

[Honolulu_Blue]

I caught the second half of that Philly-Buffalo game. Buffalo looked scary good and Philly looked like crap. I never did understand the Rathje/Hatcher signings. They are only going to get older and slower. In that end-to-end rush Afinagenov (or however you spell his damn name) just blew by Hatcher and burried it.

It was also kind of sad to see the Flyers down 8-1 or whatever the score was at the time and then watch Andrew Peters level Forsberg and the Flyers only make the weakest of attempts for payback. That just seemed to lack any fire. I saw the same thing out of Phoenix last week.

I don't think the NHL needs to revert back to the benches clearing brawls days of the 70's and such, but the games I've watched really seem to lack some spark and passion. You would figure the new division-heavy schedule would make rivalries even more intense, but it just hasn't happened. Instead you just seem to get to watch the same two teams play each other 8 times without any real passion or spark.

[Ksyrup]

So what's the deal between Esche and Hitchcock? I heard something about Esche responsing to a question about why he is playing so little by saying he didn't know what was going on inside Hitchcock's head, but there was probably nothing there anyway. So Hitchcock responds by leaving Esche in for 9 goals? Gotta love it!

[Honolulu_Blue]

So what's the deal between Esche and Hitchcock? I heard something about Esche responsing to a question about why he is playing so little by saying he didn't know what was going on inside Hitchcock's head, but there was probably nothing there anyway. So Hitchcock responds by leaving Esche in for 9 goals? Gotta love it!

Considering I have Nitty in a fantasy league, I did, in fact, love it!

[Suburban Rhythm]

Dola..Malkins back already??

Yes...he's like Ivan Drago...

[Honolulu_Blue]

Yes...he's like Ivan Drago...

Malkin is the most perfectly trained athlete ever? Malkin is a look at the future?

Or is it just that whatever he hits, he destroys?

Having seen him play, I guess I would go with the former.

[Chubby]

*Must not jinx Sabres*

[Pumpy Tudors]

Even though I'm a Devils fan, I'm warming up to the Penguins and want to see them do well. Obviously, I want the Devils to win tonight, but I want Malkin to be at his best. I'd hate to see him be tentative because of the injury. Ideally, the Devils could win 3-2 or something like that, and Brodeur can make some great saves against the youngsters in that Pittsburgh lineup.

The word is that Malkin and Crosby will play together on the power play. If the Devils take too many penalties (I'm looking at you, Sergei Brylin), those two kids are going to put on a show.

Eight hours until game time!

[Wolfpack]

*Must not jinx Sabres*

By all means, jinx. And do it by Thursday, please. :D

[Honolulu_Blue]

So the Flyers waive Nedved, Nolan Pratt, and Niko Dimitrakos after getting thrashed by Buffalo last night. Something had to give there...

[Pumpy Tudors]

Three more hours until MALKIN.

[Pumpy Tudors]

I'm very tired after the drive back from Pittsburgh (waited half an hour in the parking lot and then drove for an hour), so I'll make this quick. Malkin was very impressive. He scored the Penguins' only goal of the night, and he did a lot of fancy stick handling that drew "oohs" and "aahs" from the standing-room-only crowd. I was very impressed. Personally, I don't think his goal should have counted because he poked the puck through Brodeur's pads, and it looked like Marty was on top of the puck. Still, the whistle didn't blow, so it's a legal goal. I just think that the ref should have blown the whistle because he must have lost sight of the puck.

Anyway, the Devils won the game, 2-1. Everything worked out great for me. New Jersey won, Malkin played well, I have practically lost my voice from screaming "MARTY!" after every great save from Brodeur, and the wife and I got Sidney Crosby bobbleheads. I also shelled out $30 for an "Iceburgh" (the Pens' mascot) puppet for wifey. It was a fun night, but I'm going to be really tired tomorrow.

One quick side story: As we were leaving the Igloo, a couple came up to me and asked me for my bobblehead. I politely refused, and the female half of the couple started yelling at me, "ARE YOU GOING TO SELL IT? YOU DON'T EVEN LIKE PITTSBURGH! YOU CAN GIVE US THE BOBBLEHEAD!" The man had to drag her away from me.

[Pumpy Tudors]

Dola

Before my voice started to fade, I managed to yell out an "I HATE COLIN WHITE!" during the game. That was fun.

[Chief Rum]

Ducks just dominated the Wings tonight, in a way I haven't seen the Wings dominated in some time. As a long time Wings loather, it was a lot of fun to watch.

[Pyser]

pretty boring devils game overall. zajac is very impressive. malkin moreso, but yes, bullshit goal overall. boring game though, but a wins a win.

[Suburban Rhythm]

One quick side story: As we were leaving the Igloo, a couple came up to me and asked me for my bobblehead. I politely refused, and the female half of the couple started yelling at me, "ARE YOU GOING TO SELL IT? YOU DON'T EVEN LIKE PITTSBURGH! YOU CAN GIVE US THE BOBBLEHEAD!" The man had to drag her away from me.
Is their a wiki entry for "yinzer"?

You left out the part of Malkin's shot breaking the glass...it was akin to Ivan Drago punching the machine testing his power, and the machine reaching levels it was not designed to withstand. Or something like that.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ivan_Drago_%28Character%29
Ivan Drago (pronouned as Evon Drago) is an amateur boxer from the Soviet Union, armed with a punch over 2000 psi. (As an interesting statistical citation, most handguns and a few standard shotguns produce fewer pounds per square inch (PSI) than a punch from Ivan Drago.)

[Pumpy Tudors]

Is their a wiki entry for "yinzer"?

You left out the part of Malkin's shot breaking the glass...it was akin to Ivan Drago punching the machine testing his power, and the machine reaching levels it was not designed to withstand. Or something like that.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ivan_Drago_%28Character%29
If there isn't an entry for "yinzer", there should be. That woman was driving me nuts.

I had forgotten about Malkin's shot breaking the glass. That was amazing. None of the players noticed except Brodeur, and he was trying to get them to stop play because of the huge hole in the glass. I don't know how the players and officials didn't notice it, because that was the loudest thing in the whole building last night.

[Draft Dodger]

Who was the retard calling the Leafs-Avs game last night? For the first 3 minutes, he kept confusing Brett Clark with Karlis Skrastins. When Skrastins came on the ice for real 2 or 3 shifts in, the dude was like "Skrastins has been on the ice for the ENTIRE GAME".

[sterlingice]

Glad the Hawks game wasnt on tv last night- giving up 2 goals to Dallas in the last 1:30 to snatch defeat from the jaws of victory.

In other news, Minnesota gets their first loss leaving Buffalo as the only perfect team so far on the young season.

SI

[Tekneek]

In other news, Minnesota gets their first loss leaving Buffalo as the only perfect team so far on the young season.

And the scary part is that they are looking better to me each game. I knew when the season started that those guys were playing a style I like, but I didn't think they would be this successful so far.

[Tekneek]

About damn time. Clarke is out in Philly and taking Hitchcock with him.

[Draft Dodger]

About damn time. Clarke is out in Philly and taking Hitchcock with him.

my head can't get around this. In the last 6 months we've seen Milbury, Keenan and Clarke get the axe. It's like someone finally woke up and wondered why these fucktards still have jobs.

*I think Clarke is far better than the other two idiots, primarily for his ability to judge talent. But he let his emotion enter into his decision making process far too often. He can be the director of scouting for my team any day, but not a GM. Milbury and Keenan? well, the world always needs more guys to cook french fries...

[Suburban Rhythm]

Two interesting pieces of young Penguins and hockey history-

Jordan Staal scored 2 SHG Saturday night (the first to give Pittsburgh a 3-2 lead, and later, on a penalty shot awarded while on a breakaway short handed). That makes his first 3 NHL goals all SHG.

Elias was reported Bill Gardner accomplished that feat in the 1981-1982 season for the Blackhawks.

Evgeni Malkin has scored in his first 3 NHL games. The last player to do so was Jan Caloun for San Jose in 1995-1996.

For the Penguins sake, I hope these 2 guys turn out better than the two they've matched records with!

[Oilers9911]

Poor Blackhawks fans. Off to their best start in awhile, looking like there is light at the end of the tunnel and then down goes Handszus for the year, Havlat for 4-6 weeks and Khabibulin all in a few days.

[bbor]

How does Staal look?Is he gonna stick?Or will they cut costs and send him back to JR?

[Suburban Rhythm]

How does Staal look?Is he gonna stick?Or will they cut costs and send him back to JR?

He's looked better every game.

It was probably wasted the first few games playing on the 4th line, but has been getting more time lately.

Also, Ryan Malone, who centered the 2nd line until Malkin's return, and then was on LW on that line, broke his forearm are will miss 4-6 weeks.

He hasn't been as good as Crosby or Malkin, he's been better than just about every other forward, and just as consistent too.

So, that might bode well for Staal. As far as hockey only, he should stick. He's not looked out of place, protecting leads late in games, playing often on the PK (obvious with the 3 SHG). His speed is questionable, but he's such a big kid, it's not terrible.

On the business side though...by returning him to Peterborough, the Pens would buy themselves a little bit of leeway with contracts--Crosby's rookie deal will expire 2008, Malkin in 2009, and Staal, if sent down, 2010.

[bbor]

Pens can't be up against the cap though?Are they?

Sounds like Staal will be a better 2 way guy than Malkin and Crosby.

[Pumpy Tudors]

I wish I wasn't going to be so busy at work this week. Tomorrow night, the Devils visit Malkin Arena for the second time in a week, but I turned down good, cheap tickets because I'm just too busy to go. I hope it goes like last Wednesday's game did. Brodeur needs a strong game to make up for that disaster against the Senators the other night.

As a Devils fan and a growing Penguins fan, this has been a great start to the season. To add to the fun, the Flyers are dead last in the NHL. The only thing that would make life better would be to have the Rangers in the tank, too. Oh, well. We can't have it all. :)

[Suburban Rhythm]

Pens can't be up against the cap though?Are they?

Sounds like Staal will be a better 2 way guy than Malkin and Crosby.

Not near the cap now...but, would you want to give new deals to guys who went, #2, #1, #2 overall in 3 consecutive drafts? Not likely they all command max deals--Crosby will, the others would "settle" for slightly less--but they'll also have other guys like Fleury (signed to 2 year deal before the season started) and Ryan Whitney to resign in the next few years too. Delaying Staal one year would at least allow them to space them out. Otherwise, he and Malkin will both be due in 2009, and at that point, mgmt might have to choose one or the other.

Crosby has been much better on faceoffs so far this year, but Staal is such a big body and shields the puck really well, plus being 6'4" and his reach help too.

[Suburban Rhythm]

Two interesting pieces of young Penguins and hockey history-

Jordan Staal scored 2 SHG Saturday night (the first to give Pittsburgh a 3-2 lead, and later, on a penalty shot awarded while on a breakaway short handed). That makes his first 3 NHL goals all SHG.

Elias was reported Bill Gardner accomplished that feat in the 1981-1982 season for the Blackhawks.

Evgeni Malkin has scored in his first 3 NHL games. The last player to do so was Jan Caloun for San Jose in 1995-1996.

For the Penguins sake, I hope these 2 guys turn out better than the two they've matched records with!

Two other ways Staal has reached the record books-

Youngest player to score on a penalty shot--18 years, 41 days old. Prior record set by Nathan Horton, 18 years, 224 days.

And youngest player to score 2 SHG in a game. Prior record set by Radek Dvorak, 20 years, 278 days, when he was a Panther.

[Dr. Sak]

Malkin just made Marty look sick.

[st.cronin]

Malkin just made Marty look sick.

no kidding! :eek:

[Suburban Rhythm]

They showed a stat after the PIT- NJ game last night.

Pens have scored 25 goals this year...13 of them are by kids 20 or younger :eek:

Malkin (20) 4
Staal (18) 4
Crosby (19) 3
Kris Letang (19) 2

Don't look now...there is one team in Pittsburgh leading their division...and it ain't the Steelers.

[Pumpy Tudors]

I only saw the first period of the Devils-Penguins game last night, so the only Pittsburgh goal I caught was Nils Ekman's. It sounds like I missed some great stuff by Malkin and Crosby. Ah, well. There'll be plenty more.

I read on Yahoo! that Letang will probably go back to juniors, although the GM has said that no decision has been made yet. It's probably not a huge loss, as the other three kids are fantastic. The concern which has already been brought up here is about Staal. I know you want to look toward the future and the salary cap and everything, but it's almost painful to think that Staal could go back to juniors this year. The guy seems to be more developed than anyone was expecting. Can you really let him go just to avoid paying him this year?

If Staal plays two more games, the Pens have burned the first year of his contract, but they can delay his unrestricted free agency for a year if they keep him for fewer than 40 games. Maybe it's a better option to keep him for 40 games and see where they are in the standings. If they're still competitive by then (and I think they will be), then the team will have a huge decision to make. I don't know how they could be competitive this year at midseason and send the kid back to juniors, though. I understand why they'd consider it, but it would be a really tough move to make, I'm sure.

[Suburban Rhythm]

I only saw the first period of the Devils-Penguins game last night, so the only Pittsburgh goal I caught was Nils Ekman's. It sounds like I missed some great stuff by Malkin and Crosby. Ah, well. There'll be plenty more.

I read on Yahoo! that Letang will probably go back to juniors, although the GM has said that no decision has been made yet. It's probably not a huge loss, as the other three kids are fantastic. The concern which has already been brought up here is about Staal. I know you want to look toward the future and the salary cap and everything, but it's almost painful to think that Staal could go back to juniors this year. The guy seems to be more developed than anyone was expecting. Can you really let him go just to avoid paying him this year?

If Staal plays two more games, the Pens have burned the first year of his contract, but they can delay his unrestricted free agency for a year if they keep him for fewer than 40 games. Maybe it's a better option to keep him for 40 games and see where they are in the standings. If they're still competitive by then (and I think they will be), then the team will have a huge decision to make. I don't know how they could be competitive this year at midseason and send the kid back to juniors, though. I understand why they'd consider it, but it would be a really tough move to make, I'm sure.

If they are going to use him like they did last night, absolutely keep him. One, if allows you to keep Crosby and Malkin together on the top line, and two, keeps him in the flow of the game. As well as he's played, I don't know how much 8-10 minutes a night on the 4th line is developing him for the NHL.

Also keep in mind...while not star players, the Pens are MUCH deeper up front than on D. Two 4th liners, Roy and Karl Stewart were scratched. Petrovicky has yet to return from hip surgery and could play the 3rd line. And Malone will return in about a month, so that adds another top 6...or at least top 9...forward.

The more I consider it, I don't know how big of an issue it will be if Malkin and Staal were to be RFAs the same year (2009). Crosby will get a new (max?) deal in 2008. Fleury will get a new deal in 2008, but I can't imagine anywhere near the max. Also by that point, Recchi, Leclair, Andre Roy and J Thibault are all gone...that is an additional $6M freed up, plus other guys they may choose to let walk by that point, like Orpik.

Best scenario is Shero being able to move a package of forwards+ for another D man. Any team that is still using both Joe Melichar and Rob Scuderi is shaky, no matter where they rank as far as numbers right now.

[RPI-Fan]

my head can't get around this. In the last 6 months we've seen Milbury, Keenan and Clarke get the axe. It's like someone finally woke up and wondered why these fucktards still have jobs.

*I think Clarke is far better than the other two idiots, primarily for his ability to judge talent. But he let his emotion enter into his decision making process far too often. He can be the director of scouting for my team any day, but not a GM. Milbury and Keenan? well, the world always needs more guys to cook french fries...

Milbury was a fantastic drafter. All other stuff, yes, he sucked, but he was a better drafter by far than either of those other two.

[Honolulu_Blue]

Just in case you fellas missed this...

This is from Sports Illustrated.com

hxxp://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2006/writers/brian_cazeneuve/10/25/best.numbers/1.html

The NHL's all-time best by jersey number

85 Petr Klima

Can I get a, Hell Yeah!

[Suburban Rhythm]

Just in case you fellas missed this...

This is from Sports Illustrated.com

hxxp://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2006/writers/brian_cazeneuve/10/25/best.numbers/1.html

The NHL's all-time best by jersey number

85 Petr Klima

Can I get a, Hell Yeah!
Racking my brain to figure out who the competition was!?!

Plus...how about the love for Morozov?

[Maple Leafs]

When did Bill Berg wear #58?

[Pumpy Tudors]

The consider Vladimir Malakhov as the best to wear #38, huh? I can't think of any other 38s off the top of my head, but there must have been someone better than that. There must have been.

[Pumpy Tudors]

Dola

Jan Bulis is wearing #38 right now. Shit, give the honor to him.

[Suburban Rhythm]

The consider Vladimir Malakhov as the best to wear #38, huh? I can't think of any other 38s off the top of my head, but there must have been someone better than that. There must have been.

Jan Hrdina

Who, coincidently, may or may not be Barry Manilow's evil (good?) twin.

http://msn.foxsports.com/id/74676_5_1.jpeg
http://www.coasttocoasttickets.com/images/concerts_barrymanilow.jpg

ETA--OK, not the best pictures to see the resemblance...but you get the idea.
I am at work...and I'd hate for someone to find out I've been surfing the web for pics of.....Jan Hrdina.

[Honolulu_Blue]

I am at work...and I'd hate for someone to find out I've been surfing the web for pics of.....Jan Hrdina.

But you'd be perfectly comfortable if they found out you were surfing the web for pics of.....Barry Manilow? :)

[Pumpy Tudors]

Jan Hrdina
Good call. Anyone but that chucklefuck Malakhov.

[Suburban Rhythm]

But you'd be perfectly comfortable if they found out you were surfing the web for pics of.....Barry Manilow? :)

I am in Pittsburgh...so that would probably be accepted better than Jan Hrdina

[Draft Dodger]

Milbury was a fantastic drafter. All other stuff, yes, he sucked, but he was a better drafter by far than either of those other two.

that didn't seem right to me, so I had to go look up to see what I was missing...

11 years...
here's the players I've even heard of that weren't first round picks:
Chara, Dan Lacouture, Jerry DiPoto, Corey Stillman, Jan Hlavac and Bruno Gervais. There may be more that I'm missing, but that certainly isn't much to write home about.

Stillman and Gervais are the only two players from the last SIX Islander drafts that I know are in the NHL currently.

he's certainly done well with his 1st round picks (Redden, Luongo, Dumont, Pyatt, DiPietro, Connolly, Brewer, Torres are all in the NHL), but even then he's had 15 1st round picks, 10 in the top 10. To get 14 players into the NHL out of 11 drafts doesn't strike me as above average in any sense of the imagination. And I won't even mention that only 2 of those players are still with the franchise...

[Draft Dodger]

dola, looking through the Flyers recent drafts, it doesn't look much better. But I'm still not going to call Milbury a fantastic drafter. Fantastic anything, really, other than bullshitter

[Suburban Rhythm]

dola, looking through the Flyers recent drafts, it doesn't look much better. But I'm still not going to call Milbury a fantastic drafter. Fantastic anything, really, other than bullshitter

Fantastic shoe-wielding fighter?

[klayman]

Just in case you fellas missed this...

This is from Sports Illustrated.com

hxxp://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2006/writers/brian_cazeneuve/10/25/best.numbers/1.html

The NHL's all-time best by jersey number

85 Petr Klima

Can I get a, Hell Yeah!

He had the all-time best tape job on his stick as well.

[sterlingice]

Sabres win again

SI

[Maple Leafs]

85 Petr Klima

I don't know what the criteria was, but I'm guessing "helment quality" wasn't on the list.

[Galaxy]

Sabres win again

SI

They are looking really good. A win Saturday against Atlanta, and they'll have the best start in NHL history.

Interesting Toronto fans are complaining that they did it without shootouts (yet, you could argue that they had the ability to be a big-spender instead of a cap-restricted team).

[Chief Rum]

Sabres win again

SI

Bah! They wouldn't look so good if they played in the West. ;)

[Tekneek]

that didn't seem right to me, so I had to go look up to see what I was missing...

11 years...
here's the players I've even heard of that weren't first round picks:
Chara, Dan Lacouture, Jerry DiPoto, Corey Stillman, Jan Hlavac and Bruno Gervais. There may be more that I'm missing, but that certainly isn't much to write home about.

Stillman and Gervais are the only two players from the last SIX Islander drafts that I know are in the NHL currently.

he's certainly done well with his 1st round picks (Redden, Luongo, Dumont, Pyatt, DiPietro, Connolly, Brewer, Torres are all in the NHL), but even then he's had 15 1st round picks, 10 in the top 10. To get 14 players into the NHL out of 11 drafts doesn't strike me as above average in any sense of the imagination. And I won't even mention that only 2 of those players are still with the franchise...

It isn't really fair to be too critical of all of those crazy trades he made during those years. Owners were coming and going, at least one went to prison, and there was little or no money for keeping a team together. He had to keep moving guys around.

I'd say his drafts were about average. Too many people get really excited about how GMs do in the first round. IMO, doing well in the first round is merely expected. Doing badly in the first round is the only thing that would be noteworthy. There may be some debate about whether Milbury picked the best player available in the first round, but everyone should agree that he did pretty well in it.

[NoSkillz]

that didn't seem right to me, so I had to go look up to see what I was missing...

11 years...
here's the players I've even heard of that weren't first round picks:
Chara, Dan Lacouture, Jerry DiPoto, Corey Stillman, Jan Hlavac and Bruno Gervais. There may be more that I'm missing, but that certainly isn't much to write home about.

Stillman and Gervais are the only two players from the last SIX Islander drafts that I know are in the NHL currently.

he's certainly done well with his 1st round picks (Redden, Luongo, Dumont, Pyatt, DiPietro, Connolly, Brewer, Torres are all in the NHL), but even then he's had 15 1st round picks, 10 in the top 10. To get 14 players into the NHL out of 11 drafts doesn't strike me as above average in any sense of the imagination. And I won't even mention that only 2 of those players are still with the franchise...

Just to reinforce your point further, the Cory Stillman you're thinking about WASN'T drafted by Mad Mike, but by Calgary in 1992.

That's ANOTHER Cory Stillman that was drafted in 2001 and he's mired in the CHL right now with no chance of playing NHL hockey.

[Tekneek]

That's ANOTHER Cory Stillman that was drafted in 2001 and he's mired in the CHL right now with no chance of playing NHL hockey.

Isn't there at least one pick like that in each draft? Seems like there is at least one bust in each first round and often 2 or 3.

EDIT... That guy was taken 101st overall. No surprise he is nowhere near the league. 24 other players taken in that round have not played a single NHL game at this point. Nobody taken in that round has played more than 126 NHL games (Tomas Surovy) and that guy is back in Sweden now.

[Draft Dodger]

Just to reinforce your point further, the Cory Stillman you're thinking about WASN'T drafted by Mad Mike, but by Calgary in 1992.

That's ANOTHER Cory Stillman that was drafted in 2001 and he's mired in the CHL right now with no chance of playing NHL hockey.

thanks - I really was scratching my head over how Stillman could seem so old and be so young

[JonInMiddleGA]

Thrashers put an end to Buffalo's winning streak with a 5-4 shootout win, with Lehetonen blanking the Sabres on three straight shots.

[Tekneek]

The streak had to end at some point. Atlanta played well, but winning or losing that game doesn't mean anything for April/May... :)

I was a little surprised with the way Hartley got so excited after the game. I would have expected him to tone it down just a little bit given the way they had blown a few leads in the game. It did also make me wish that shootout "wins" weren't worth as many points as a regulation win. They really shouldn't count the same because they aren't the same.

[Pumpy Tudors]

A streak that hasn't ended is Malkin's scoring streak. Five games, five goals. Damn. I knew the kid was something special when my wife blurted out the other night, "I want a Malkin jersey." This woman does not normally wear hockey jerseys, but it's all aboard the Malkin bus here in western PA. I think it's pretty cool, but now we have to decide whether I'm paying for her jersey or if she is. :)

[Tekneek]

I think it's pretty cool, but now we have to decide whether I'm paying for her jersey or if she is. :)

Christmas gift.

[JonInMiddleGA]

The streak had to end at some point. Atlanta played well, but winning or losing that game doesn't mean anything for April/May... :)

I was a little surprised with the way Hartley got so excited after the game.

2 points is 2 points, I'll take 'em now or in April ;)

Heck, my son even commented on that ("I guess hockey coaches keep a low profile unless there's something really big"). I was a little surprised but I think it's probably a pretty realistic response. This is a big win for them, probably the biggest in team history in some ways.

Regardless of the calendar, this game was viewed both inside and out as a test for a team that's certainly exceeded expectations so far. They had some "test" games last year and didn't fare well in them. So I can understand Hartley's excitement, he finally saw them pass a test, which has to be satisfying. He knows, just like about everyone else, that both he & Waddell probably have their jobs on the line this year so I'm sure there was some relief after they hung on, however momentary that relief may be.

Now they just need to follow up with a win over Toronto & we're looking at a very successful road trip.