The Official 13-14 NHL Regular season thread

[Suburban Rhythm]

Cause it's no longer the offseason

[The Jackal]

Flyers have too many defenseman already and just signed Hal Gill (facepalm) to a 1 year deal .. trade coming?

[Suburban Rhythm]

Leafs extend Phil the Thrill, 8 years/$8m per

[The Jackal]

you should have reposted that GIF in that comment

[Suburban Rhythm]

you should have reposted that GIF in that comment

I imagine the Leafs were hovering around $7m, until he pulled this up on his phone

http://cdn0.sbnation.com/assets/3270871/kessel-lightsaber.gif

[Chief Rum]

You know, I had frankly forgotten that Patrick Roy was the Avs coach now.

So I have a new reason to hate Colorado again.

[Honolulu_Blue]

I am very excited to have the Wings in the East. It will be great to see so many more games against Boston, Toronto and Montreal. It will also be good to have fewer 10:00/10:30 pm EST starts. Those were brutal.

Things I am interested in seeing:

1. How the Wings handle being in the East

2. How Alfredsson and Weiss perform on the second line.

3. Will the younger players - DeKeyser, Nyquist, Tatar and Andersson - take the next step? (Assuming they're given the opportunity to do so. The Wings have a massive glut of forwards.)

Glad to have hockey back!

[DaddyTorgo]

I am very excited to have the Wings in the East. It will be great to see so many more games against Boston, Toronto and Montreal. It will also be good to have fewer 10:00/10:30 pm EST starts. Those were brutal.

Things I am interested in seeing:

1. How the Wings handle being in the East

2. How Alfredsson and Weiss perform on the second line.

3. Will the younger players - DeKeyser, Nyquist, Tatar and Andersson - take the next step? (Assuming they're given the opportunity to do so. The Wings have a massive glut of forwards.)

Glad to have hockey back!

Things I am not looking forward to. Alfredsson on the Wings.
Playing Pavel D. more.
The Wings.

That is all from Boston ;)

[The Jackal]

I'm just glad we got Columbus in the Metropolitan (facepalm) instead of Detroit.

[Suburban Rhythm]

Something on NHL net last night, regarding Columbus (which would hold true for Detroit too).

Last season they played 2% of their road games in the Eastern (ie, their own) time zone. This year that number will be 66%.

[Chief Rum]

I realize I am speaking from a biased perspective, but it is my impression that the "experts" are sleeping on the Ducks, calling last year fluky or just generally not rating them very highly. I beleive that is a mistake.

Hiller and Fasth form one of the best one-two GK combos in the league. Even without Ryan, the Perry-Getzlaf-whoever (probably Penner) line is still one of hockey's best. Cogliano (or a natural RW kiddie forward)-Koivu-Selanne is a strong second line. Tons of developing offensive talent abound on the roster (Etem, Palmieri, Bonino, Holland, Silfverberg). A blueline which will miss Souray's hard shot, but is otherwise very effective with Beauchemin, an improving Fowler, Allen, Lovejoy, well-regarded rookie offensive blueliner Sami Vatanen, and so forth.

There is depth and talent throughout this organization and finishing #2 in the West was no fluke. I'm hoping they prove the experts wrong this season.

[The Jackal]

I think the Ducks have a good shot at finishing in the top 5 out West, a good shot indeed. Probably rate them behind Chicago and St. Louis but after that they're right there with the other solid bunch. Looking at that conference I could definitely see them finishing 3rd.

[Honolulu_Blue]

I realize I am speaking from a biased perspective, but it is my impression that the "experts" are sleeping on the Ducks, calling last year fluky or just generally not rating them very highly. I beleive that is a mistake.

Hiller and Fasth form one of the best one-two GK combos in the league. Even without Ryan, the Perry-Getzlaf-whoever (probably Penner) line is still one of hockey's best. Cogliano (or a natural RW kiddie forward)-Koivu-Selanne is a strong second line. Tons of developing offensive talent abound on the roster (Etem, Palmieri, Bonino, Holland, Silfverberg). A blueline which will miss Souray's hard shot, but is otherwise very effective with Beauchemin, an improving Fowler, Allen, Lovejoy, well-regarded rookie offensive blueliner Sami Vatanen, and so forth.

There is depth and talent throughout this organization and finishing #2 in the West was no fluke. I'm hoping they prove the experts wrong this season.

I think the experts are too focused on the playoffs. I think that they look at Anaheim's first round loss to Detroit and assume there no 2 overall record in the West was a fluke, a product of just being "hot" in a shortened season or something along those lines.

On the other side, I think that a lot of experts think the Wings are better than they are because of what happened in the playoffs. (Though getting knocked out in the second round isn't that impressive.) The Wings were very much a bubble team all year last year. They had to win their last 4 games just to squeak into the playoffs.

Going into the season the top teams in the West seem to be: Chicago, Los Angeles, St. Louis and San Jose. I think Anaheim is right up there with most of those teams.

[Suburban Rhythm]

I think the experts are too focused on the playoffs. I think that they look at Anaheim's first round loss to Detroit and assume there no 2 overall record in the West was a fluke, a product of just being "hot" in a shortened season or something along those lines.

On the other side, I think that a lot of experts think the Wings are better than they are because of what happened in the playoffs. (Though getting knocked out in the second round isn't that impressive.) The Wings were very much a bubble team all year last year. They had to win their last 4 games just to squeak into the playoffs.

Going into the season the top teams in the West seem to be: Chicago, Los Angeles, St. Louis and San Jose. I think Anaheim is right up there with most of those teams.

I disagree. Because I see plenty of experts picking the Pens as the winner of the Metro, but barely anyone having them come out of the East in the playoffs. And that's a 100% legit stance.

[claphamsa]

Leafs extend Phil the Thrill, 8 years/$8m per

thats... obscene.

buck says in 3 years his contract goes for ovechkins contract and both teams hope these guys retire early!

[chadritt]

What is a "protective equipment" penalty? I can't see the game, i can only look at espns box score.

[claphamsa]

when you are wearing a helmet and you fight its an extra 2 min...

[The Jackal]

when you are wearing a helmet and you fight its an extra 2 min...

no i don't think that's in effect, just something being discussed. protective equipment penalty is what they are calling the untucked jersey, i think

[Suburban Rhythm]

when you are wearing a helmet and you fight its an extra 2 min...

I think it's the visor, since you're not allowed to remove your helmet before a fight.

Unless the call is for removing?

[The Jackal]

i was watching that fight and they both took their helmets off, but i didn't have volume on so i didn't hear about the penalty

[The Jackal]

haha, so maybe they both got called for removing their helmets?

[The Jackal]

in sad news, did anyone see what just happened to parros? got pulled down by the jersey as orr was going to the ice after a fight and slammed his face into the ice hard - bloody chin, tried to stand up with the help of three people and couldn't - stretchered off. scary sight.

[Suburban Rhythm]

DOLA

Watching Pirates game, but apparently Parros fell at end of fight with Orr, and head hit the ice. Taken off on stretcher.

[bbor]

Removal of your helmet during a fight is an automatic 2 minutes penalty

[JPhillips]

I sure am glad the Caps gave away their top rated prospect for a guy that's now on the fourth line.

[BishopMVP]

I fully anticipate doing at least 3 double takes in the next month when people tell me they're going to a Bruins game, then start to pay attention in January when the Patriots lose... only to realize the Bruins either have a playoff spot pretty much locked up, or are one of 7 teams within 3 points of the #5 seed due to the shootout/OTL system, and check out again until the trade deadline.

[Ryan S]

I think it's the visor, since you're not allowed to remove your helmet before a fight.

Unless the call is for removing?

I think that you get 2 minutes for removing your helmet in a fight.

They removed the 2 minutes for fighting with a visor when they made visors mandatory.

[Suburban Rhythm]

I think that you get 2 minutes for removing your helmet in a fight.

They removed the 2 minutes for fighting with a visor when they made visors mandatory.

Visors aren't mandatory....yet.

[The Jackal]

Visors aren't mandatory....yet.

Visors are mandatory for new players, aren't they? Just not grandfathered?

[Suburban Rhythm]

Visors are mandatory for new players, aren't they? Just not grandfathered?

Yeah, bad wording on my part. It will be probably 10 years before they are required for all players at this point.

[Fidatelo]

It's only 1 game, but Trouba looked great last night. I think Chevy found a real gem there. Scheifele also looks like he truly belongs in the NHL this year. I'm sure they will both have their struggles at times this year, but I'm pretty stoked about their futures.

[Dr. Sak]

Vokoun out 3 to 6 months....

http://assets.sbnation.com/assets/2593983/fleuryLOL_medium.gif

http://cdn1.sbnation.com/imported_assets/1595581/trgNGDn.gif

http://www.soniccherry.com/funny/photoshop/fleury.gif

:popcorn:

[Suburban Rhythm]

You forget this picture, regularly seen in late April and into May

http://www.crossingbroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/Giroux_golfing.jpg

;)

[Suburban Rhythm]

DOLA

I have zero expectations. Fleury won't be the problem from October-April. He'll be fine. They'll be a playoff team.

After that...again, zero expectations.

[Dr. Sak]

You forget this picture, regularly seen in late April and into May

http://www.crossingbroad.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/Giroux_golfing.jpg

;)

Yeah that's the faulty club from a Pittsburgh Manufacturer. But on the bright side, he had as many points as Sid and Malkin did in the ECF last year!

[Suburban Rhythm]

Holmgren knows Hal Gill isn't a goalie, right?

[Dr. Sak]

Holmgren knows Hal Gill isn't a goalie, right?

Yes but he thinks that since he plays like a big orange cone, he can just park him in front of the net. It's part of his new age thinking.

[Suburban Rhythm]

Yes but he thinks that since he plays like a big orange cone, he can just park him in front of the net. It's part of his new age thinking.

Orange cones will come in handy for rehab skates for Lecavalier and Streit

[The Jackal]

I have no rebuttal, I've been making Hal Gill jokes for years...

[Suburban Rhythm]

I have no rebuttal, I've been making Hal Gill jokes for years...

It just doesn't make sense. He can be slow and get away with holding in the playoffs.

So why sign in Philly?

:p

[Dr. Sak]

Orange cones will come in handy for rehab skates for Lecavalier and Streit

Or to play the 3rd and 4th line for you guys since you paid your stars so much money. :p

[Suburban Rhythm]

Or to play the 3rd and 4th line for you guys since you paid your stars so much money. :p

Those orange cones will have little trouble getting in Hartnell's way and causing him to fall.

[Dr. Sak]

Those orange cones will have little trouble getting in Hartnell's way and causing him to fall.

What? He can't hear you...

http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3T2HneNCcSU/T4tmFmsInRI/AAAAAAAACdM/HpDg3kGKBYY/s1600/hartshogan.jpg

[The Jackal]

Well done, Dr. Sak

[Suburban Rhythm]

I'm on at work, so can't see....by guessing it him with Cy Clark (Malkamania guy).

Too lazy to look on my phone

[The Jackal]

I'm on at work, so can't see....by guessing it him with Cy Clark (Malkamania guy).

Too lazy to look on my phone

Correct

[Ryan S]

Visors aren't mandatory....yet.

They are mandatory for anyone with less than 25 games experience.

Hybrid icing tops list of NHL rule changes for 2013-14 season - NHL.com - News (http://www.nhl.com/ice/news.htm?id=684940#&navid=nhl-search)

All players with fewer than 25 games of NHL experience are now required to wear a visor. As a result, the additional unsportsmanlike penalty for instigating a fight while wearing a visor has been deleted from the rule book.

[Ajaxab]

Good to see Patrick Roy bringing his unique brand of lunacy back to the NHL...it's game 1 Patty! Calm down!

[Vince, Pt. II]

And in a 6-1 win for his team, on top of that. Jeez, Roy.

[Honolulu_Blue]

I love it! Go Patty Roy! His presence and some of the talent upfront makes a once very, very dull Colorado team brimming with possible excitement.

[claphamsa]

I love it! Go Patty Roy! His presence and some of the talent upfront makes a once very, very dull Colorado team brimming with possible excitement.

too bad we have an old goalie, a headcase goalie, and no defense.

this team needs to pray for a lot of 6-5 wins!

[The Jackal]

too bad we have an old goalie, a headcase goalie, and no defense.

this team needs to pray for a lot of 6-5 wins!

i think the flyers are going to be in a lot of 6-5 games this year too...

[DaddyTorgo]

DROP THE MOTHERFUCKIN PUCK IN BOSTON AND LETS GET THIS SEASON STARTED!!!!!

[Logan]

Mike Smith just made the first ridiculous save I've seen this season.

[DaddyTorgo]

Great win for the Bruins. 3-1, with one goal wrongly disallowed due to a ref whistle when the puck was literally loose in the air.

2 short-handed goals, 1 on a penalty shot.

[Fidatelo]

Ducks/Jets tonight! Final game for Teemu in Winnipeg! I will be cheering loud from section 202!

Only issue is our babysitter doesn't get here until 6:30 and the game starts at 7:00. Gonna be tight...

[Logan]

Frank Seravalli ‏@DNFlyers 4m

Flyers have fired Peter Laviolette, per a source. Replacing him with Craig Berube. Press conference at 11am.

[Suburban Rhythm]

I don't understand moves like this.

If his hold on the job was that slim that 3 games were make or break, should have happened in the offseason.

[Logan]

Agreed.

[The Jackal]

I don't understand moves like this.

If his hold on the job was that slim that 3 games were make or break, should have happened in the offseason.

Very true. Definitely smacks of Snider urgency. Honestly, Holmgren should be let go as well so Hexy can start making his imprint.

Fact of the matter is that the current team is not built to play Lavy's system. Defense is too slow and not great at the transition game - forwards can skate and hit but haven't been working as a unit, especially entering the zone.

Seems like they might have been tuning him out - I'm happy for a change.

[Suburban Rhythm]

Reading at HF, apparently Snider went bonkers at the press conference.

Was asked why his teams have had more coaches over the last 20 years (11) than any other team in the league, and he blew a gasket. A second question was why hire a guy (apparently, no interim tag for Berube, and has a "multi year deal") who has been part of the last 4 coaching regimes...and he went bananas.

Hoping a YouTube surfaces

[Chief Rum]

Ducks recovered from the seaosn opening shellacking by the Crazy Roys by taking four points from two road games in Minny and Winnepeg. Now they head home for the home opener against the Rangers tomorrow night. Should be a fun game.

[Fidatelo]

Ducks recovered from the seaosn opening shellacking by the Crazy Roys by taking four points from two road games in Minny and Winnepeg. Now they head home for the home opener against the Rangers tomorrow night. Should be a fun game.

I'd like to pretend that game last night didn't happen. K thx.

- Zach Bogosian

[bhlloy]

That was as brutal a 2 minute sequence for one player as I've ever seen (obviously not Steve Smith or Chris Phillips scoring Stanley cup winning goal into own net bad in the grand scheme of things but still).

[bbor]

Craig Berube?

Broad street bullies coming back?

[The Jackal]

Craig Berube?

Broad street bullies coming back?

Never left

[bhlloy]

Quick obviously felt bad for Bogosian and didn't want him to be on the blooper reel for more than one night

(seriously if you haven't seen it yet, go look it up. just wow)

[Logan]

Just got to work and saw the replay. That was rough. The Rangers' 2nd goal was off a Kings' stick too, but not nearly as bad.

[Suburban Rhythm]

Marc Andre Fleury probably has this cued up in the locker room this morning, showing everyone and saying "But I never did THIS!"

[BishopMVP]

Quicky actually allowed a worse one than that once at UMass. Same scenario (clearance from a man-down unit) except it was about half that speed and actually beat him 5-hole. Guy's amazing (especially his glove hand), and one of our 2 best players ever, but he was an adventure outside of the crease.

[Vince, Pt. II]

So, uh, Tomas Hertl is having himself a game over in San Jose.

[bhlloy]

In two days I've now seen the worst and best goal I've ever seen. That last goal was unreal. 9-2 now

[kingfc22]

Not a bad 3 games for the kid. Man what a 4th goal that was tonight.

[Vince, Pt. II]

That was insane. Wow.

[Logan]

Went to bed with the Rangers down 2-1. Woke up and checked my phone...did not expect to see that.

[Suburban Rhythm]

That goal would only be better if Torts was still in NY, and called him arrogant afterwards.

[Logan]

Sure was arrogant. That move should only be allowed to be performed by hulking Czech defensemen in shootouts.

[Logan]

Phone hearing for Brad Stuart for his elbow on Rick Nash last night.

[Vince, Pt. II]

That goal would only be better if Torts was still in NY, and called him arrogant afterwards.

I've got to admit, even as a Sharks fan who loved the hell out of the goal it seemed almost excessively show-boat-y. Can you imagine how hard he'd be taking it if he missed that shot?

[Logan]

I've got to admit, even as a Sharks fan who loved the hell out of the goal it seemed almost excessively show-boat-y. Can you imagine how hard he'd be taking it if he missed that shot?

As a Rangers fan I had no problem with it: just stop the shot.

I could see the criticism being a little stronger though because he already had a hat trick, kind of like a "...and for my next trick..."

[Suburban Rhythm]

I've got to admit, even as a Sharks fan who loved the hell out of the goal it seemed almost excessively show-boat-y. Can you imagine how hard he'd be taking it if he missed that shot?

As a Rangers fan I had no problem with it: just stop the shot.

I could see the criticism being a little stronger though because he already had a hat trick, kind of like a "...and for my next trick..."

FTR, I didn't find it out of line. But I know Torts would have blown a gasket.

I took it as more of a "this will really fool the goalie and increase my chances" than "I'm going to make this guy look completely awful!".

[Ryan S]

I've got to admit, even as a Sharks fan who loved the hell out of the goal it seemed almost excessively show-boat-y. Can you imagine how hard he'd be taking it if he missed that shot?

Joe Thornton's thoughts: Canucks vs Hertl gameday: What we learned | The Province (http://blogs.theprovince.com/2013/10/10/canucks-vs-hertl-gameday-what-we-learned/)

Hearing a question to Marleau about Hertl and whether he was showboating, Thornton said:

“Shut up, have you ever played the game?”

When the press turned his way, he then added:

“I’d have my cock out if I scored four goals. I’d have my cock out, stroking it.”

[Fidatelo]

I love that quote, it's been cracking me up for the last 24 hours. I also love that someone suggested a new nickname: Strokin' Joe Thornton :P

[The Jackal]

It is getting really depressing how much the flyers suck

[Fidatelo]

When is Claude Noel going to learn that starting Pavelec in back-to-back games is a bad idea? I'm not saying Pavy cost them the game tonight (there is plenty of blame to go around yet again), but he did let in a couple that I think he should have stopped. There is overwhelming statistical evidence over the past 2+ seasons showing Pavelec's Save % dropping dramatically in the second game of a back to back, and yet Noel continues to throw him out there. What's the point of even having Al Montoya? He's not a bad backup, throw him out there once in awhile.

I'm pretty much of the opinion that Noel is holding this team back at this point. They aren't built to be contenders, but they can (and should) be better.

[MacroGuru]

It is getting really depressing how much the flyers suck

Not as depressing as the Sabres...

[Pyser]

devils are winless in 5 as well. blown leads in 4 straight.

[The Jackal]

devils are winless in 5 as well. blown leads in 4 straight.

how has schneider looked? he was pretty great in the preseason

[Vince, Pt. II]

Joe Thornton's thoughts: Canucks vs Hertl gameday: What we learned | The Province (http://blogs.theprovince.com/2013/10/10/canucks-vs-hertl-gameday-what-we-learned/)

:D

[Suburban Rhythm]

Bizarro land in Pittsburgh...people calling for the backup to be benched and Fleury to play.

[RomaGoth]

Well at least the Wings can hold onto a lead against a team from Boston.

[Suburban Rhythm]

Today's sign of the Apocalypse

Cooke to Kaleta: I can help you change - Cross Checks Blog - ESPN (http://espn.go.com/blog/nhl/post/_/id/27203/cooke-to-kaleta-i-can-help-you-change)

[Logan]

I'm still confused over something I saw in the Rangers game last night.

NBC Sports starts talking about Derick Brassard and the strong play he put together after the trade from Columbus last season. Then they put up a graphic with his name/headshot that says "First game vs Capitals since trade from Columbus on April..."

For one, let's forget about the fact that he participated in every game of a great seven game series with the Caps a month after that trade, which makes that all pointless anyway. Or that it wasn't even like anyone else on the Rangers played a game against the Caps since that trade, even excluding the playoffs. But besides all of that, I'm still racking my brain trying to figure out the point they were trying to make. Stumped.

[Logan]

And BTW that's three consecutive shutouts of the Caps by Hank dating back to Game 6 of the first round.

[Suburban Rhythm]

I'm still confused over something I saw in the Rangers game last night.

NBC Sports starts talking about Derick Brassard and the strong play he put together after the trade from Columbus last season. Then they put up a graphic with his name/headshot that says "First game vs Capitals since trade from Columbus on April..."

For one, let's forget about the fact that he participated in every game of a great seven game series with the Caps a month after that trade, which makes that all pointless anyway. Or that it wasn't even like anyone else on the Rangers played a game against the Caps since that trade, even excluding the playoffs. But besides all of that, I'm still racking my brain trying to figure out the point they were trying to make. Stumped.

Guessing it was more of "This guy has played against Washington before in the regular season, but only as a Blue Jacket. Now he's playing them in the regular season as a Ranger"?

But agree....why does it matter?

[Logan]

And BTW that's three consecutive shutouts of the Caps by Hank dating back to Game 6 of the first round.

Speaking of...this has already been edited back.

http://snyrangers.files.wordpress.com/2013/10/wiki-2.png

[Wolfpack]

Hybrid icing claimed its first victim tonight. No, nobody got hurt, but a freak bounce of the puck off the boards directed puck into Leaf goalie Jonathan Bernier's skate and bounced in as a game-winning goal for Carolina. This was because Radek Dvorak edged out a Leaf defender on a race to the dots in the opinion of the officials. The puck wasn't blown dead for icing and the odd bounce from the boards took care of the rest. The goal would have counted under the old icing system anyway, but I think Bernier would have been more active and less casual about playing it if he knew it was live.

[Honolulu_Blue]

While I rarely care about the opposing coach, I thought it was very fitting that the Red Wings give Patrick Roy his first career lost as a NHL head coach.

[RomaGoth]

Glad Kronwall is ok after the cheap shot he took from behind against Colorado. What actually angers me about the entire thing is not so much the hit itself (hockey players take care of their own, right? Right?), but rather the idiotic comments of the Avalanche announcer Mike Haynes:

"Well, I'll tell you what, you talk about getting a little of your own medicine," Haynes said. "Kronwall made a living in this league with big hits and he just got crushed there by Cody McLeod."

There really is no place for any of this crap in the NHL, and stupid announcers like this aren't helping matters any.

[JPhillips]

How to mismanage the salary cap, Washington style:

Nearly 20% of the cap is spent on forwards currently playing on the third and fourth lines.

About 35% of the cap is spent on Ovi, Backstrom and Green.

The remaining 45% covers 5 top 6 defensemen, 4 top 6 forwards and 2 goalies.

[Suburban Rhythm]

Two fantastic games last night, Avs-Pens and Wings-Sharks

[SirFozzie]

Hopefully John Scott is out for at least five games after that blatant late/cheap elbow to Loui Eriksson's head.

[DaddyTorgo]

Hopefully John Scott is out for at least five games after that blatant late/cheap elbow to Loui Eriksson's head.

I vote 10!

[NoSkillz]

I'm a Sabres fan - I hope he's suspended for life.

Boy, it's tough being a Buffalo sports fan. At least the Bills are showing *some* signs of life.

[MacroGuru]

Boy, it's tough being a Buffalo sports fan. At least the Bills are showing *some* signs of life.

+1, but I expected the Sabres to be disappointing this season.

As for John Scott, he deserves at least 5 games, he was trying to jump start something for the last part of the 2nd period and no one was having it.

[Suburban Rhythm]

Thank goodness there are players like John Scott in the league to prevent players like John Scott from throwing dirty hits.

[Honolulu_Blue]

Just watched it. Pretty brutal.

Scott should be gone for quite a while.

[Logan]

Are we just more sensitive to this, or does it seem like there are actually more of these hits happening now than ever? It feels like every day I'm reading about either a scheduled hearing or an already-decided suspension.

[Fidatelo]

I think everyone is more sensitive to it. I also think that the crazy hard-shell equipment makes the results of cheap shots like Scott's more devastating. 10-15 years ago Eriksson gets right back up with a bruised jaw, now he's hospitalized for observation.

[NoSkillz]

+1, but I expected the Sabres to be disappointing this season.

I expected them to be disappointing as well and I have absolutely no problem whatsoever with them finishing near or at the bottom of the standings.

However, with a rebuilding team, you want to have some hope. You want to see the team play the young kids, in this case four (!!) teenagers, and give them appropriate ice time and linemates in order to develop. You want to see the team play hard, but fair, be difficult to play against and show some battle despite likely falling short the majority of the time.

None of that, and I mean NONE of that is happening in Buffalo. Their top prospect, 19 year old Mikael Grigorenko is getting between 5-10 minutes a night centering John Scott. Tell me: how in the hell is the kid supposed to develop when he's playing with a guy like that and getting no quality ice time? They say he hasn't 'earned' more ice time...what a load of B.S!!! Like we need to watch another year of Drew Stafford, Ville Leino, Tyler Ennis, etc stink it up and underperform.

They should put the kid on a top two line, play him 15-20 minutes a night and let him make his mistakes on the way without him feeling like he'll be benched or relegated to the 4th line after the first giveaway. The team is going nowhere this year...let the kids play!

That said, there's no doubt in my mind that coach Ron Rolston is completely in over his head and not cut out to be a coach at this level. The team plays with absolutely no organization whatsoever, with constant odd man rushes against, poor pinches, bad decisions and tepid play. I won't even start with Regier, who should have been shown the door years ago. But even then, if the team decides to fire both now, what does that say about an organization that knew before the season that they'd be "suffering". It would prove they have absolutely no idea what they're doing.

So continue to expect the status quo. Losing at a record clip (maybe 15-20 wins max this year), getting outshot 2-1 every game and playing an absolutely unwatchable brand of hockey that has this long-time season ticket holder actually thinking about not renewing next year.

And I'm a die-hard. Imagine the casual fans right now.

<EXHALES>
*exhales*

Sorry for the rant. I guess I need to get used to this because it will only get worse when Miller and Vanek are traded...coming from a team that says they need more good players to contend. Ha!

[Logan]

Vanek to NYI for Moulson, 2014 1st, 2015 2nd.

[bhlloy]

Really curious trade for the Islanders. Moulson is statistically just as good as Vanek, and probably more affordable/resignable. Plus you give up a first and a second?

They must think Vanek has more upside playing with Tavares but man, that's a hell of a lot to give up and you are going to have to pay him this offseason if he even wants to stay

[bbor]

I imagine that if Vanek doesn't sign by the trade deadline he will be dealt,but it does seem like a hell of a lot to give up for a pending UFA.

I think Moulson is a non factor in this trade,he is a product of Tavares more than anything else.

[Logan]

I think Moulson is a non factor in this trade,he is a product of Tavares more than anything else.

The sole reason I drafted him in our FOFC league!

[Suburban Rhythm]

Pens-B's was great last night, though I'm guessing not too many eyes in Boston saw it.

And it featured Pascal Dupuis pulling his own tooth on the bench before his next shift

http://cdn0.sbnation.com/assets/3484305/toothpull_medium.gif

[DaddyTorgo]

Pens-B's was great last night, though I'm guessing not too many eyes in Boston saw it.

And it featured Pascal Dupuis pulling his own tooth on the bench before his next shift

http://cdn0.sbnation.com/assets/3484305/toothpull_medium.gif

I saw it. Was a tough loss for the B's - great game throughout, but I think once they got scored on with like 9 minutes left or whatever it was always going to be tough.

[Honolulu_Blue]

So, Colorado goalie Semyon Varlamov was arrested last night on domestic violence charges. It appears that he might have shoved his girlfriend into a wall.

While I won't make light of the domestic violence, this reaction by some Russian politician is pretty fantastic:

“I’m confident of Semyon’s innocence. I think it is sports and political move, as Varlamov is a candidate for the Russian national team. The main goal is to suspend him from training and games so that he loses practice and misses the Olympics.”

-State Duma deputy Igor Ananskikh, a member of Russia's most outspoken nationalist party, LDPR.

[Suburban Rhythm]

From 13 years ago...

[Suburban Rhythm]

Downie to Philly, Talbot to Colorado

[Fidatelo]

Stamkos broke his leg this afternoon. :(

[Honolulu_Blue]

Stamkos broke his leg this afternoon. :(

Read about that. That sucks. Hopefully he won't be out too long, but it doesn't sound good.

[Icy]

Just got back from my first live NHL game ever!

I'm in Montreal this week visiting some customers and I was invited to the Lightning @Canadiens game today in their luxury suite, really great experience!

Besides de business this alone was worth the long trip from Spain :)

http://www.zocomedia.es/images/hockey.jpg

[britrock88]

Lucky duck. I'd love to see the Habs someday.

[Honolulu_Blue]

Some big changes in Buffalo.

Rolston (coach) and Darcy Regeir (long time GM) are OUT.

Ted Nolan is in as the interim head coach and Pat LaFontaine is now the director of hockey operations.

Things had to change there. Interesting to see the Sabres reach back into the past for both Nolan and LaFontaine.

In other hockey news, the Red Wings lost in OT again. It's how they do. Datsyuk and Zetterberg have been fantastic this year. The rest of the team? Not so much.

[Suburban Rhythm]

Ted Nolan is the best coach...for 12-24 months. He'll get Buffalo back to the playoffs by 15-16, if allowed to stick around that long.

Then, by that point, every player on the team will hate him, and they'll have to fire him again.

[MacroGuru]

Some big changes in Buffalo.

Rolston (coach) and Darcy Regeir (long time GM) are OUT.

Ted Nolan is in as the interim head coach and Pat LaFontaine is now the director of hockey operations.

Things had to change there. Interesting to see the Sabres reach back into the past for both Nolan and LaFontaine.


I am a newer Sabres fan (going on 6 yrs now) I am excited just to see the changes happen. Everyone else is on cloud 9. I hope for some shake ups coming on the roster and seeing this team reach deep inside and kick it up a notch.

[bhlloy]

Be very interested to see if Nolan's style works with today's young NHL players

From the outside looking in seems harsh on Regier, who built some really good teams and then has done an excellent job restocking the cupboard with picks when the talent fell off.

[MacroGuru]

Seeing the practice pictures from today, the players look happy and excited. Nolan worked them to death from the reports, but it is cool to see them smiling and excited.

[johnnyshaka]

http://www.zocomedia.es/images/hockey.jpg

Pffft...that's looks photoshopped! :p

[Suburban Rhythm]

Be very interested to see if Nolan's style works with today's young NHL players

From the outside looking in seems harsh on Regier, who built some really good teams and then has done an excellent job restocking the cupboard with picks when the talent fell off.

As another outsider, I think Regier's at "fault" for having a rich owner come in, and spending the money poorly. His two money FA pickups have been solid (Ehrhoff) and terrible (Leino). Then retaining average players - Stafford, Ennis - at much too high salaries.

[NoSkillz]

As another outsider, I think Regier's at "fault" for having a rich owner come in, and spending the money poorly. His two money FA pickups have been solid (Ehrhoff) and terrible (Leino). Then retaining average players - Stafford, Ennis - at much too high salaries.

The death blow in my opinion was his hire of Rolston, a coach who was clearly in over his head at the NHL level, without going so far as interviewing other candidates.

Just lazy management and it was quite apparent that Rolston had lost the team weeks ago.

LaFontaine is an inspired hire - he exudes class and is extremely well respected throughout hockey and should bring back some integrity to the Sabres organization that has been lost this year, whether it's because of the Kaleta/John Scott fiascos or the disasterous play on the ice.

I doubt Nolan is a long-term solution but he's an ideal "interim" candidate who will bring passion and accountability to a young dressing room. At the very least, I'm hoping that the Sabres become watchable again because the "product" has been excrutiating this year.

[Dr. Sak]

How was this child allowed out of the arena yesterday in Pittsburgh?

[Logan]

Hartnell's handwriting sucks.

[Suburban Rhythm]

Writing that terrible had to come from somebody with a weak wrist. Wonder how much Giroux gave the kid to hold that.

[Chief Rum]

How was this child allowed out of the arena yesterday in Pittsburgh?

Penguins hat. Pittsburgh fans were confused long enough for him to escape.

[Suburban Rhythm]

Penguins hat. Pittsburgh fans were confused long enough for him to escape.

This, and he didn't throw batteries at anyone or cheer cancer, so he didn't give himself away.

[Galaxy]

As another outsider, I think Regier's at "fault" for having a rich owner come in, and spending the money poorly. His two money FA pickups have been solid (Ehrhoff) and terrible (Leino). Then retaining average players - Stafford, Ennis - at much too high salaries.

I think Pegula, as much as he wants to win, is a bit clueless. Reiger should of been gone when he bought the team.

Rolston was just terrible. Line management, the scratches (how are you suppose to develop and rebuild when your young guys when you put them on fourth lines or scratch them? Especially over guys like "Brian Flynn" and lazy, poorly performing players like Drew Stafford.) The Kaleta move also was questionable.

I hope Nolan can get the team inspired again...though hopefully they don't go on a run and finish 8th or 9th in the standings. A shot at the top two or three picks is what this teams need to "rebuild."

It'll be interesting to see who is hired as the next GM.

[NoSkillz]

I think Pegula, as much as he wants to win, is a bit clueless. Reiger should of been gone when he bought the team.

Rolston was just terrible. Line management, the scratches (how are you suppose to develop and rebuild when your young guys when you put them on fourth lines or scratch them? Especially over guys like "Brian Flynn" and lazy, poorly performing players like Drew Stafford.) The Kaleta move also was questionable.

I hope Nolan can get the team inspired again...though hopefully they don't go on a run and finish 8th or 9th in the standings. A shot at the top two or three picks is what this teams need to "rebuild."

It'll be interesting to see who is hired as the next GM.

I agree with you about the lack of youth development but here we are, with Nolan about to coach his first game and look at who he's scratching:

Grigorenko
Larsson
Zadorov

Three of their premier young prospects. In their place: Ville Leino (BUST), Stafford, Flynn, and Jamie McBain.

Ugh.

[bhlloy]

When the Ducks played the Sabres I thought Zadarov was the best Sabre on the ice. Can't say I'm surprised that the grizzled veteran coach prefers grizzled veteran players though

[NoSkillz]

When the Ducks played the Sabres I thought Zadarov was the best Sabre on the ice. Can't say I'm surprised that the grizzled veteran coach prefers grizzled veteran players though

My guess would be that he went to those vets and gave them one more chance to prove their worth to the team. I'd imagine if Stafford/McBain/Leino etc continue to struggle, they will be the ones in the press box next.

[Galaxy]

I agree with you about the lack of youth development but here we are, with Nolan about to coach his first game and look at who he's scratching:

Grigorenko
Larsson
Zadorov

Three of their premier young prospects. In their place: Ville Leino (BUST), Stafford, Flynn, and Jamie McBain.

Ugh.

Yeap. Grigorenko might have work ethic problems, but scratching him or putting him the 4th line isn't going to help his game. He had two goals the other night.

I think Zadorko needs to go back down to the OHL or play. Sitting him all the time isn't going to help him.

[bbor]

My guess would be that he went to those vets and gave them one more chance to prove their worth to the team. I'd imagine if Stafford/McBain/Leino etc continue to struggle, they will be the ones in the press box next.


This...

[Dr. Sak]

I was on a flight from Pittsburgh to Detroit today and was watching my weekly ACC training videos when the guy sitting next to me asked if I was an official. He asked me what conferences I worked in and how I got started in officiating.

He then introduced himself and said that he was a NHL referee in the 80s and 90s and now was currently a scout and observer of officials for the NHL. It was really great swapping officiating stories with him, he even told me a few about Kerry Frazier and Bill McQuery. He told me next time he is in Pittsburgh he will give me a call and take me into the locker room.

[MizzouRah]

I was on a flight from Pittsburgh to Detroit today and was watching my weekly ACC training videos when the guy sitting next to me asked if I was an official. He asked me what conferences I worked in and how I got started in officiating.

He then introduced himself and said that he was a NHL referee in the 80s and 90s and now was currently a scout and observer of officials for the NHL. It was really great swapping officiating stories with him, he even told me a few about Kerry Frazier and Bill McQuery. He told me next time he is in Pittsburgh he will give me a call and take me into the locker room.

That's awesome...

[Logan]

Great story.

Tukka Rask was unbelievable last night. The Rangers inability to finish continues...

[Suburban Rhythm]

I was on a flight from Pittsburgh to Detroit today and was watching my weekly ACC training videos when the guy sitting next to me asked if I was an official. He asked me what conferences I worked in and how I got started in officiating.

He then introduced himself and said that he was a NHL referee in the 80s and 90s and now was currently a scout and observer of officials for the NHL. It was really great swapping officiating stories with him, he even told me a few about Kerry Frazier and Bill McQuery. He told me next time he is in Pittsburgh he will give me a call and take me into the locker room.

You're going to wear a Hartnell jersey, right?

[gstelmack]

NHL concussion lawsuit filed by former players | Home Ice - SI.com (http://nhl.si.com/2013/11/25/nhl-concussion-lawsuit-gary-leeman-head-injuries/?eref=sihp)

Much like the players in the NFL lawsuit who scream about safety but won't wear pads and get pissed off at fines, I'm not sure how a players' group that fought being required to wear helmets, then visors, has a leg to stand on here...

[RomaGoth]

Ted Nolan is the best coach...for 12-24 months. He'll get Buffalo back to the playoffs by 15-16, if allowed to stick around that long.

Then, by that point, every player on the team will hate him, and they'll have to fire him again.

This is awesome.

[Suburban Rhythm]

Yes please

Will new TV deal lead to NHL version of NFL's Red Zone channel? (http://www.cbssports.com/nhl/eye-on-hockey/24286588/will-new-tv-deal-lead-to-nhl-version-of-nfls-red-zone-channel)

[Logan]

That would be pretty awesome.

[Honolulu_Blue]

This whole CBC getting screwed annoys me.

[Suburban Rhythm]

This whole CBC getting screwed annoys me.

Curious what this means for Cherry.

If I read everything right, CBC has HNIC for 4 more years, but Rogers is controlling all aspects of it?

I vote they replace him with Rob Ford.

[bbor]

Rogers is lending the programing to the cbc.All cbc "HNIC" crews are part of Rogers now.CBC could not afford to renew the HNIC deal,this is the only way they could have kept the programing.

What does CBC get out of it? A million viewers every Saturday night who will be subjected to the promos for other shows on the network,and they don't have to spend money on filling 4 hours of programing that would more than likely not get them even close to the million plus viewers they had during HNIC.

[Suburban Rhythm]

Really glad I didn't 'DaddyTorgo' that Leafs-Pens game last night in the 2nd period.

:p

[Fidatelo]

I don't really care about the CBC losing control of HNIC, but I am disappointed that it's Sportsnet gaining that control and not TSN. TSN telecasts are on a completely different level than Sportsnet and unless Sportsnet can raise their game quick the quality drop between this year and next is going to be substantial.

The other disappointment for me is that CBC and TSN are both part of most 'basic' cable packages, whereas Sportsnet is usually an add-on. For me to watch games outside of CBC next year I'll be looking at tacking another $6/month onto my cable bill.

[DaddyTorgo]

Really glad I didn't 'DaddyTorgo' that Leafs-Pens game last night in the 2nd period.

:p

:D

On the flip side, I'm glad I started to FF through the Bruins-Red Wings game after the first 4 goals. Saved me a bunch of time.

[Logan]

Lundqvist extension is done, 7 years at about $8.2MM AAV from what I've seen.

A bit more than I was expecting but not much way around it.

[Honolulu_Blue]

Lundqvist extension is done, 7 years at about $8.2MM AAV from what I've seen.

A bit more than I was expecting but not much way around it.

Sounds about right. It's pretty much what Rask got, no? I figured Lundqvist's money would be very similar.

[Honolulu_Blue]

The Wings will be without both Datsyuk and Zetterberg for at least the next three games. Datsyuk is suffering from concussion like symptoms after getting elbowed in the head by Cowen and his missed the last few games. Zetterberg has a herniated disc in his back and will be out a minimum of two weeks.

[Suburban Rhythm]

Lundqvist extension is done, 7 years at about $8.2MM AAV from what I've seen.

A bit more than I was expecting but not much way around it.

Sounds about right. It's pretty much what Rask got, no? I figured Lundqvist's money would be very similar.

Best post on HF, referencing Cam Talbot's hot start to his Rangers career-

"That's alot of $$$ for a backup"

Dreger and others reporting $8.5MM, but at that point what's the difference?

There was no way NY wasn't signing him, although he'll be 39 at the end of that deal. But no major injury concerns.

[Logan]

Yeah I have no problem with it, even if the cap wasn't going to increase. People who were against bringing him back wanted the money spent on offense, as if premium scorers constantly hit FA. Not to mention they would spend at least $4MM on a goalie anyway, so you're talking about the difference between your normal 3rd liner salary and the overpaid Clarksons/Clowes of the world. Give me Hank.

[Chief Rum]

If you want two points from the Ducks, just manage to get them to a shootout. They are abysmal there.

[Suburban Rhythm]

Yeah I have no problem with it, even if the cap wasn't going to increase. People who were against bringing him back wanted the money spent on offense, as if premium scorers constantly hit FA. Not to mention they would spend at least $4MM on a goalie anyway, so you're talking about the difference between your normal 3rd liner salary and the overpaid Clarksons/Clowes of the world. Give me Hank.

And he was already around $7MM, no? So if the cap only goes up $1.5M, they've broken even.

Plus, Richards HAS to be a buyout this summer, right?

[Logan]

And he was already around $7MM, no? So if the cap only goes up $1.5M, they've broken even.

Plus, Richards HAS to be a buyout this summer, right?

Yes to both.

[JonInMiddleGA]

Umm ... all hell breaking loose in Boston tonight?

[DaddyTorgo]

Umm ... all hell breaking loose in Boston tonight?

I'm DVR-ing it so I can watch the BC-UNH game first, but based on what you've just said, I'm looking forward to it. Just extended the end time by an extra half hour ;) .

[PurdueBrad]

Umm ... all hell breaking loose in Boston tonight?

<--- Pens fan here.

Yeah, there is all hell breaking loose. I would guess lengthy suspensions for players from both teams.


Neal for 3-6 and Thornton's needs to be A LOT more than that but we'll see. NHL rarely really takes hold of these things

[Suburban Rhythm]

Shawn Thornton in recent interview. I usually save the word fraud to deride Claude Giroux, but no better word for Thornton.

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/Ba7TS5hCUAAOGjU.png

[DaddyTorgo]

Neal should be out of this fucking game too - how you only get 2 minutes for kneeing a dude in the head intentionally is beyond me.

Also - you can clearly see on the replay that Orpik goes head-hunting - just as Neal went head-hunting.

As much as I love Orpik (BC boy represent), he fucking got what he deserved. Bush league play by Thornton yes, but bush league hit by Orpik in the first place.

[Ryan S]

As much as I love Orpik (BC boy represent), he fucking got what he deserved. Bush league play by Thornton yes, but bush league hit by Orpik in the first place.

Seriously?

[Dr. Sak]

Seriously?

My thoughts exactly...:confused:

[The Jackal]

I usually save the word fraud to deride Claude Giroux

Hey now...

[Solecismic]

This "police themselves" mantra is getting comical.

Ban fighting, get better helmets, absorb the temporary loss of goon-fans - it's not as if salaries don't indicate the game is moderately healthy and can handle the loss.

[claphamsa]

Just watched it on TSN... I think what neal did was worse, but the bad bad injury to Orpik is going to play more for suspensions.

were I in charge, they would both get the chance to beg for forgiveness next training camp.

[DaddyTorgo]

Seriously?

He launches his shoulder at Erikson's head, so yes.

And believe me, 99.9% of the time I back my fellow Maroon-n-Gold alum to the hilt, but that was a bad hit.

Horrible hit on Erikson too, who is just coming off a concussion this season. And double-especially when you consider the Cooke/Savard history.

[DaddyTorgo]

This "police themselves" mantra is getting comical.

Ban fighting, get better helmets, absorb the temporary loss of goon-fans - it's not as if salaries don't indicate the game is moderately healthy and can handle the loss.

I'm actually going with the commentators on this one. If there had (rightly) been a penalty called, or if Orpik had accepted the fight with Thornton earlier then it would have been settled. The fact that he skated away from it was the issue.

[DaddyTorgo]

Just watched it on TSN... I think what neal did was worse, but the bad bad injury to Orpik is going to play more for suspensions.

were I in charge, they would both get the chance to beg for forgiveness next training camp.

Erikson's got a concussion. Orpik's got a concussion.

I'd say "an eye for an eye" operated pretty well here.

Pittsburgh should count themselves lucky Thornton didn't go after Neal IMO.

edit: I'm obviously coming at this from an emotionally-charged angle.

[Solecismic]

I'm actually going with the commentators on this one. If there had (rightly) been a penalty called, or if Orpik had accepted the fight with Thornton earlier then it would have been settled. The fact that he skated away from it was the issue.

And what does that solve?

Why should the players, in the emotion of the moment, decide whether Orpik's original hit was suspension-worthy?

Or do you get away with dangerous, outside-the-lines hits if you're good enough at fighting to handle a Thornton assault?

This "police themselves" mentality doesn't hold up to logic. What we do know is that there are serious life-altering issues both for those who fight and for those who continue to accept wearing a helmet that doesn't protect them very well.

It was only 17 years ago that the last helmet-less player retired. People said that would ruin the game. Anyone still making that argument?

I think we need an NFL-like campaign to remove dangerous hits from the game. Corollary being NFL-like penalties for taking a swing at someone.

The NFL is doing just fine without linemen occasionally removing their helmets and engaging in a fist-fight.

[DaddyTorgo]

The NFL is doing just fine without linemen occasionally removing their helmets and engaging in a fist-fight.

We already have that - it's called Sumo wrestling.

As an aside - think about that for a minute, wouldn't it be amusing (lineman fights)? :lol:

[Solecismic]

As an aside - think about that for a minute, wouldn't it be amusing (lineman fights)? :lol:

With the size and speed and strength training of some of those guys, plus the ability to use their feet as a proper anchor for leverage?

Um... we'd be dealing with more than a few deaths every year. Not amusing.

It's long past the time that fighting in the NHL makes sense. It's an anachronism from the feudal days of hockey. I think it has held back the sport for decades.

[DaddyTorgo]

FWIW I'm not one of those guys who's all "fighting is integral to hockey...yay fighting!" or anything.

I could take it or leave it. Getting rid of it wouldn't affect my enjoyment of the game. I enjoy college hockey just as much for example, and they don't let them fight there.

[Suburban Rhythm]

Anyone who thinks the Orpik hit was bad...I don't know what to tell you. Please give up watching hockey. Initial point of contact is the chest. Unfortunate injury, but if you can't make that hit, take out all hitting.

If Eriksson is at risk for another concussion, keep him off the ice. Not Orpik's responsibility.

Neal's knee will get him suspended. Totally 'accidental on purpose'. But if you can't separate borderline dirty stuff in game play from someone pulling garbage after skating 80 feet down the ice, you need to re-evaluate.

Neal's knee is no different than Chara's hit on MaxPac a few years back. There's gameplay action, then there is Shawn Thornton, Marty McSorley, Todd Bertuzzi.

And the "Orpik didn't oblige Thornton" bull shit?? How pathetic. I find Marchand a rat-faced bitch. I asked him to stab himself with his own skate, but he won't. So, the knee to the head should suffice. Seems logical, right?

I'll repeat. Thornton is a FRAUD. Talk about fake. One week ago, saying he's honorable. BULLSHIT. If the thought didn't cross his mind that he shouldn't jump a guy while he skated the length of the ice, I'm not sure how he ties his own skates. That's not a "heat of the moment" reaction...there was 8 seconds in between.

[Suburban Rhythm]

Hey now...

:cool:

[Johnny93g]

Anyone who thinks the Orpik hit was bad...I don't know what to tell you. Please give up watching hockey. Initial point of contact is the chest. Unfortunate injury, but if you can't make that hit, take out all hitting.

If Eriksson is at risk for another concussion, keep him off the ice. Not Orpik's responsibility.

Neal's knee will get him suspended. Totally 'accidental on purpose'. But if you can't separate borderline dirty stuff in game play from someone pulling garbage after skating 80 feet down the ice, you need to re-evaluate.

Neal's knee is no different than Chara's hit on MaxPac a few years back. There's gameplay action, then there is Shawn Thornton, Marty McSorley, Todd Bertuzzi.

And the "Orpik didn't oblige Thornton" bull shit?? How pathetic. I find Marchand a rat-faced bitch. I asked him to stab himself with his own skate, but he won't. So, the knee to the head should suffice. Seems logical, right?

I'll repeat. Thornton is a FRAUD. Talk about fake. One week ago, saying he's honorable. BULLSHIT. If the thought didn't cross his mind that he shouldn't jump a guy while he skated the length of the ice, I'm not sure how he ties his own skates. That's not a "heat of the moment" reaction...there was 8 seconds in between.

This....well said

[DaddyTorgo]

Anyone who thinks the Orpik hit was bad...I don't know what to tell you. Please give up watching hockey. Initial point of contact is the chest. Unfortunate injury, but if you can't make that hit, take out all hitting.

If Eriksson is at risk for another concussion, keep him off the ice. Not Orpik's responsibility.

Neal's knee will get him suspended. Totally 'accidental on purpose'. But if you can't separate borderline dirty stuff in game play from someone pulling garbage after skating 80 feet down the ice, you need to re-evaluate.

Neal's knee is no different than Chara's hit on MaxPac a few years back. There's gameplay action, then there is Shawn Thornton, Marty McSorley, Todd Bertuzzi.

And the "Orpik didn't oblige Thornton" bull shit?? How pathetic. I find Marchand a rat-faced bitch. I asked him to stab himself with his own skate, but he won't. So, the knee to the head should suffice. Seems logical, right?

I'll repeat. Thornton is a FRAUD. Talk about fake. One week ago, saying he's honorable. BULLSHIT. If the thought didn't cross his mind that he shouldn't jump a guy while he skated the length of the ice, I'm not sure how he ties his own skates. That's not a "heat of the moment" reaction...there was 8 seconds in between.

BS - watch the replay. It looked like a clean, but hard hit to me in real-time, but in replay you can see Orpik clearly lowers his shoulder at Erikson's head.

[Dr. Sak]

BS - watch the replay. It looked like a clean, but hard hit to me in real-time, but in replay you can see Orpik clearly lowers his shoulder at Erikson's head.

It's clean...how can you blame Orpik when Eriksson lowers his head/shoulders to play the puck whenever Orpik is already committed to that angle? And let's be real here...if he hit his head at all...it's a slight brush to the chin.

[Suburban Rhythm]

BS - watch the replay. It looked like a clean, but hard hit to me in real-time, but in replay you can see Orpik clearly lowers his shoulder at Erikson's head.

It's clean...how can you blame Orpik when Eriksson lowers his head/shoulders to play the puck whenever Orpik is already committed to that angle? And let's be real here...if he hit his head at all...it's a slight brush to the chin.

The impact is to Erikkson's shoulder/chest. If you want to be precise, he hits Orpik with his head as it snaps forward from the impact of the hit.

Give Erikkson 2 minutes unsportsmanlike for the headbutt

[Suburban Rhythm]

5 games for Jimmy Neal

Thankfully he didn't break his kneecap on Marchand's beak.

[Dr. Sak]

5 games for Jimmy Neal

Thankfully he didn't break his kneecap on Marchand's beak.

Suspensions:

James Neal: 3
Matt Cooke: 4

[Suburban Rhythm]

Suspensions:

James Neal: 3
Matt Cooke: 4

I can only assume these came in Dallas, and Vancouver/Washington/Minnesota, respectively. The Penguins get away with everything.

[Grover]

Classy tribute to Iginla from Calgary. Incredible response from the crowd.

[DaddyTorgo]

Classy tribute to Iginla from Calgary. Incredible response from the crowd.

Classy place that Calgary.

[DaddyTorgo]

Amusing how NESN calls the between-period interviews: "Jamie Erdhal will go one on one with ______."

Maybe it's just me, but that sounds sexual.

[RomaGoth]

5 games for Jimmy Neal

Thankfully he didn't break his kneecap on Marchand's beak.

I still trade for him every time I play EHM. The AI undervalues him immensely. :D

[RomaGoth]

Wow the Red Wings can't win a shoot out to save their life. They are 0-5 after last night. Babcock's love affair with Cleary and Quincey is a mystery to me; it is eerily similar to Bettman/Crosby. Ewwww...

[Suburban Rhythm]

I still trade for him every time I play EHM. The AI undervalues him immensely. :D

The AI was probably designed by Joe Nieuwendyk.

Still one of the great recent fleecings. Alex Goligoski IS Matt Niskanen...at 3X the salary.

[Suburban Rhythm]

Wow the Red Wings can't win a shoot out to save their life. They are 0-5 after last night. Babcock's love affair with Cleary and Quincey is a mystery to me; it is eerily similar to Bettman/Crosby. Ewwww...

DOLA

It's funny how all (most) teams hate their coaching.

There is a large contingent of Penguins fans who hate Bylsma. And he has his man crushes too - Craig Adams, Deryk Engelland. But how many other teams would kill to have Bylsma or Babcock?

[RomaGoth]

DOLA

It's funny how all (most) teams hate their coaching.

There is a large contingent of Penguins fans who hate Bylsma. And he has his man crushes too - Craig Adams, Deryk Engelland. But how many other teams would kill to have Bylsma or Babcock?

Oh I don't hate our coach, I happen to believe he is one of the top 2-3 coaches in hockey right now. But his fascination with playing Dan Cleary 15 minutes a game on the top 2 lines is mystifying.

[RomaGoth]

So I guess the hockey gods haven't yet finished the parade of injuries for the Wings. We can now add Jimmy Howard to the list, who is out for a month with a sprained knee. Already without Zetterberg, Helm, Weiss, and DeKeyser.

Ugh.

[DaddyTorgo]

So I guess the hockey gods haven't yet finished the parade of injuries for the Wings. We can now add Jimmy Howard to the list, who is out for a month with a sprained knee. Already without Zetterberg, Helm, Weiss, and DeKeyser.

Ugh.

Join the club.

[DaddyTorgo]

Milan Lucic of Boston Bruins explains incident, rips hometown of Vancouver - ESPN Boston (http://espn.go.com/boston/nhl/story/_/id/10147112/milan-lucic-boston-bruins-explains-incident-rips-hometown-vancouver?ex_cid=espnapi_public)

"That's one of the worst parts, it's in my hometown and going back to the spray painting of the church and my grandparents, parents and family getting harassed during the Finals against the Canucks in 2011, and now it's escalated to a point where I get attacked for minding my own business," he said. "I have no reason left to defend my city and the people in my city. I'm disgusted and outraged that it had to come to something like that. As far as that goes, other than being at Rogers Arena, no one will ever see me in downtown Vancouver ever again."

[Suburban Rhythm]

Milan Lucic of Boston Bruins explains incident, rips hometown of Vancouver - ESPN Boston (http://espn.go.com/boston/nhl/story/_/id/10147112/milan-lucic-boston-bruins-explains-incident-rips-hometown-vancouver?ex_cid=espnapi_public)

If he would have fought the guy earlier, all this could have been avoided.

[Chief Rum]

Join the club.

What he said. The injuries the Ducks have had this year, especially along the blueline, has just been ridiculous.

[DaddyTorgo]

Daniel Paille of Boston Bruins out indefinitely after suffering concussion - ESPN Boston (http://espn.go.com/boston/nhl/story/_/id/10148169/daniel-paille-boston-bruins-indefinitely-suffering-concussion)

Injuries continue to plague the Boston Bruins, as forward Daniel Paille is out indefinitely after suffering a concussion, coach Claude Julien said Monday.

The Bruins are already without defensemen Adam McQuaid and Dougie Hamilton, both sidelined with lower-body injuries, along with forwards Chris Kelly (broken fibula) and Shawn Thornton, who is currently serving a 15-game suspension.

Also, Bruins forward Jarome Iginla suffered a left hand injury during a first-period fight with the Canucks' Ryan Kesler on Saturday night in Vancouver. Iginla did not practice with the team Monday and was sporting a brace on his left ring finger. He's scheduled to be examined by team doctors Monday afternoon.

"We're hoping it's all good and hopefully we get him back tomorrow," Julien said.

There's still no progress report on Bruins forward Loui Eriksson, who suffered a concussion -- his second in a five-week span -- on Dec. 7 at TD Garden.

"No, he hasn't even come to the rink, so that's the only thing I can give you right now, which is not a good sign," Julien said.

Count the bolded players. That's 7 starters.

[Chief Rum]

To be fair, you bolded a suspended player, and that's his own damn fault. ;)

[DaddyTorgo]

To be fair, you bolded a suspended player, and that's his own damn fault. ;)

Very true. ;)

Still - 6 starters is a big number.

[Suburban Rhythm]

Penguins starting 6 defense tonight have about 550 games of NHL experience. Matt Niskanen has 450 of them. Brian Dumoulin had his first game Saturday. Ulf's boy, Phillip, gets his first tonight.

[bhlloy]

Speaking of inexperienced defensemen, Ducks first rounder from 2 years ago Hampus Lindholm is going to be really, really good. I don't want to jinx him by saying who he reminds me of at 19 but if you haven't heard of him yet look him up. He's playing lights out for a rookie defensemen getting top 4 minutes

[DaddyTorgo]

Penguins starting 6 defense tonight have about 550 games of NHL experience. Matt Niskanen has 450 of them. Brian Dumoulin had his first game Saturday. Ulf's boy, Phillip, gets his first tonight.

Pittsburgh has a nice BC-pipeline of defensemen.

[Sublime 2]

Pittsburgh has a nice BC-pipeline of defensemen.

Sucks for them. ;)

Go BU.

[claphamsa]

Very true. ;)

Still - 6 starters is a big number.

they start 6 skaters? I thought Rask was pretty good...

[Suburban Rhythm]

Pittsburgh has a nice BC-pipeline of defensemen.

Orpik, Scuderi, Dumoulin, Samuelsson. Gibbons and Kobasew up front.

Depending how my son's game schedule falls over Xmas, we may catch the tournament they're in here in Pittsburgh 12/27 and 28.

[Suburban Rhythm]

Penguins starting 6 defense tonight have about 550 games of NHL experience. Matt Niskanen has 450 of them. Brian Dumoulin had his first game Saturday. Ulf's boy, Phillip, gets his first tonight.

Official numbers, after last night-

Niskanen (445 games) - Despres (61)
Maatta (35) - Bortuzzo (40)
Dumoulin (2) - Samuelsson (1)

[DaddyTorgo]

Sucks for them. ;)

Go BU.

:lol:

[DaddyTorgo]

they start 6 skaters? I thought Rask was pretty good...

:p

You know what I meant.

[DaddyTorgo]

Orpik, Scuderi, Dumoulin, Samuelsson. Gibbons and Kobasew up front.

Depending how my son's game schedule falls over Xmas, we may catch the tournament they're in here in Pittsburgh 12/27 and 28.

Yup.

You totally should!!

[sterlingice]

they start 6 skaters? I thought Rask was pretty good...

:D

SI

[SirFozzie]

For Christmas, this goalie wants tighter pants. (the Sabres win in OT when the puck falls into the pants of the goalie, and the goalie, unaware, spills into the net trying to stop what he thought was a loose puck.)

NHL.com - PHX @ BUF - 3:47 of Overtime - NHL.com - News (http://www.nhl.com/ice/blogpost.htm?id=24293&cmpid=nhl-twt)

[DaddyTorgo]

FML

Bruins lose Seidenberg for the season with a torn ACL & MCL.

Shorthanded team gets even shorter. Guess they may have to bring back up one of the AHL defenders and let the waiver clock hit on them.

[Suburban Rhythm]

Popular injury of the week. Pascal Dupuis taken out by some friendly fire when Crosby gets hip checked by Marc Methot

http://cdn2.sbnation.com/assets/3762029/dupuishurt_medium.gif

Out for the year, torn ACL. Which, could have been worse, could have had his face sliced open too

More importantly, who is Eddie O going to call "Pasquale" on NBC games?

[Dutch]

Outdoor Winter Classic is on. 100,000 people from USA and Canada in attendance. Snowing. Pretty cool to watch.

[sterlingice]

Looks pretty awesome. I forgot what time the game was

SI

[EagleFan]

Looks awesome but the game will take forever with all the snow clearing breaks and the quality of the game is going to seriously suffer.

[Dutch]

Looks awesome but the game will take forever with all the snow clearing breaks and the quality of the game is going to seriously suffer.

NP, I'm from the '80's, I'm okay with shit taking a while to happen. :)

[sterlingice]

Looks awesome but the game will take forever with all the snow clearing breaks and the quality of the game is going to seriously suffer.

For one game a year, it's worth it for the publicity, especially with the visuals that will come out of it

SI

[Galaxy]

Does the NHL really need to expand to 6 outdoor games this year? Leave it to the NHL to muck something cool and special up.

[EagleFan]

Does the NHL really need to expand to 6 outdoor games this year? Leave it to the NHL to muck something cool and special up.

It's all about the money.

[Galaxy]

It's all about the money.

Of course. :)

[bhlloy]

How is it possible for a team to be built as badly as the Oilers? The Ducks played one of the worst games I've seen them play in years, went 0-8 on the PP and still won easily 5-2.

The only comparable I can possibly make is the Lions when they kept drafting WR but at least that was only three years in a row. Outside of Hall who was a no-brainer, what a shit show with 5+ years of high draft picks.

[BishopMVP]

The only comparable I can possibly make is the Lions when they kept drafting WR but at least that was only three years in a row. Outside of Hall who was a no-brainer, what a shit show with 5+ years of high draft picks.You really can't build with defensemen (or goalies) at the top of the draft. I guess it sucks that there was no Tavares, Kane or Stamkos available in their years, but I don't really blame them for any of the Hall/Nugent-Hopkins (you could argue for Landeskog there)/Yakupov picks. The best defensemen picked in the top 8 I see are Adam Larsson and Ryan Murray - Jacob Trouba, Dougie Hamilton and Cam Fowler all went between 9th-12th, so they would have been aggressive reaches.

[bhlloy]

Then they should have traded down. You also can't build a cup winning team around skilled enigmatic forwards when you have no goalie, no defensemen and absolutely no veteran leadership

[BishopMVP]

Then they should have traded down. You also can't build a cup winning team around skilled enigmatic forwards when you have no goalie, no defensemen and absolutely no veteran leadershipSo you're saying the problem is they drafted Yakupov instead of a North American?

Easy to say they should have traded down (and I agree) but without knowing the offers it's hard to say. It's also hard to build a cup-winning team when no free agent wants to live in your city. But hey, 2 more years until Connor McDavid!

[bhlloy]

Nah, I think Nugent-Hopkins falls into that category just as much as Yakupov does. Basically, they were insane to take skilled young forwards in those situations, especially ones they were then going to rush to the big leagues and let fail with the rest of the team.

Also, don't think you'll get too much sympathy from a Ducks fan about FA signings not wanting to play in Edmonton given the Schultz situation. Insane that their best NHL defenseman was basically gift wrapped because of a loophole. This team could be worse.

EDIT - I'm probably being unfair to Nugent-Hopkins and Yakupov, who haven't been terrible for young players in the league. But I just can't see the justification in drafting offensive players when there are so many holes elsewhere (and it looks really bad given what Landeskog has done already and then how strong the 2012 defenseman class already looks)

[Suburban Rhythm]

All Olympic rosters released now....thoughts?

[Honolulu_Blue]

All Olympic rosters released now....thoughts?

Bobby Ryan.

Now that's out of the way...

Canada is still the strongest team. Great collection of forwards and defense. The biggest question will be goaltending. Price has been really good this year and Luongo has as well, but I think he's a bit banged up right now.

Dan Hamhuis was a surprise. No Cotoure (injury most likely), St. Louis, Giroux or Eric Staal seem to be the biggest snubs. Kunitz is great with Crosby, but is he good enough without him? Nash has been so quiet this year I sort of forgot about him.

The Russian roster doesn't look all that imposing.

Finland could have the best goaltending.

There will be a lot of setting the DVR and waking up early in the morning to watch games before work.

[BishopMVP]

All Olympic rosters released now....thoughts?I'm waiting for that Sean McIndoe guy's 8000 word opus on the Canadian team at Grantland.

Giroux seems like a huge snub to me. Don't have a problem with Bobby Ryan being left off - Brandon Saad's actually the guy I want to see - but I'm not a fan of Brooks Orpik at D. Would've rather seen Jack Johnson, or even Keith Yandle regardless how much Brian Burke hates him, out there on the international surface.

[Suburban Rhythm]

Bobby Ryan.

Now that's out of the way...

Canada is still the strongest team. Great collection of forwards and defense. The biggest question will be goaltending. Price has been really good this year and Luongo has as well, but I think he's a bit banged up right now.

Dan Hamhuis was a surprise. No Cotoure (injury most likely), St. Louis, Giroux or Eric Staal seem to be the biggest snubs. Kunitz is great with Crosby, but is he good enough without him? Nash has been so quiet this year I sort of forgot about him.

The Russian roster doesn't look all that imposing.

Finland could have the best goaltending.

There will be a lot of setting the DVR and waking up early in the morning to watch games before work.

I was a long time Nash defender. I thought he didn't have enough support in Columbus for a long stretch. Then said he had to adjust to NY. Then that he didn't have an elite center in NY...turns out, maybe he's a nice player, a 1st liner on most teams, but not an elite guy.

Kunitz...I'm biased. I can understand where you look at him compared to, say, Giroux and see a wide gap in talent. I actually applaud both the US and Canada groups for not just picking All-Star teams.

And another thing re: Kunitz that bothers me...he's a 25 goal/50+ point guy on his own. He did it in Anaheim (yes, with talent around him). He did it in Pittsburgh without Sid (yes, with Malkin). Nobody has any problem to Patrick Sharp - who I also think earned his spot - being a near lock, but he's playing with Toews and Hossa. There are only about 12-15 guys who really carry a line on their own in the entire league. Not being one of those guys doesn't make you terrible.

[Suburban Rhythm]

I'm waiting for that Sean McIndoe guy's 8000 word opus on the Canadian team at Grantland.

Giroux seems like a huge snub to me. Don't have a problem with Bobby Ryan being left off - Brandon Saad's actually the guy I want to see - but I'm not a fan of Brooks Orpik at D. Would've rather seen Jack Johnson, or even Keith Yandle regardless how much Brian Burke hates him, out there on the international surface.

DOLA

Penguin fan saying Orpik probably shouldn't be there. Though not for the reason most often cited. He'll be fine on the big ice. He can really skate, especially for a guy his size.

But he's been declining for two years now.

If you didn't read this -

http://espn.go.com/olympics/hockey/story/_/id/10195703/how-us-hockey-team-bound-sochi-olympics-was-named

- great (long) piece about US selection.

I was amused by this quote

Keith Yandle is another lightning-rod player whom the coaches were not enthused about having on the roster.

With him the reward never seems to exceed the risk, Poile says.

"It's not that he wouldn't be on the power play if he were on the team," Laviolette says. "But the risk in his game seems to be more than Dan's willing to take or wants to take with that type of player," he adds referring to head coach Dan Bylsma.

The same Dan Bylsma who puts Letang out there 25 minutes a night (when healthy).

[Honolulu_Blue]

I was a long time Nash defender. I thought he didn't have enough support in Columbus for a long stretch. Then said he had to adjust to NY. Then that he didn't have an elite center in NY...turns out, maybe he's a nice player, a 1st liner on most teams, but not an elite guy.

Kunitz...I'm biased. I can understand where you look at him compared to, say, Giroux and see a wide gap in talent. I actually applaud both the US and Canada groups for not just picking All-Star teams.

And another thing re: Kunitz that bothers me...he's a 25 goal/50+ point guy on his own. He did it in Anaheim (yes, with talent around him). He did it in Pittsburgh without Sid (yes, with Malkin). Nobody has any problem to Patrick Sharp - who I also think earned his spot - being a near lock, but he's playing with Toews and Hossa. There are only about 12-15 guys who really carry a line on their own in the entire league. Not being one of those guys doesn't make you terrible.

I don't think Kunitz is terrible. I think he's a really good player. I just think that there were some better players available that he was chosen over.

The Red Wings played the Blackhawks a lot. And whenever they did, it was always Patrick Sharp - not Toews, Kane, or Hossa - that most worried me. The dude always seemed to score daggers.

Giroux had a rough start to the year. Eric Staal hasn't been great. Couture is injured. Kunitz has played really well, especially the last couple of years. And chemistry is important.

[Suburban Rhythm]

Biggest surprise was Stevie Y leaving Marty St. Louis off the roster

[Suburban Rhythm]

DOLA

And James Neal is the hottest goal scorer in the NHL right now...but his injuries and probably his temper/dirty play didn't help him.

[claphamsa]

Giroux seems like a huge snub to me. Don't have a problem with Bobby Ryan being left off - Brandon Saad's actually the guy I want to see - but I'm not a fan of Brooks Orpik at D. Would've rather seen Jack Johnson, or even Keith Yandle regardless how much Brian Burke hates him, out there on the international surface.

I dont get the Giroux love. hes always talked about like a superstar, and as a long time fantasy owner (I cant fathom how I end up with him ever year) he always slumping ALWAYS. he a decent centerman, who plays decent (not great) defence, and has offensive tools that dont seem to ever add up to consistent production.

[bhlloy]

Somebody on an Anaheim board was trying to argue for Taylor Hall and I think I agree - he's a bonafide superstar on a train wreck of a team who is rounding out his game. He'd be on my team for sure, and I think he could be one of the stars of the tournament playing with better players

[bhlloy]

DOLA - I completely skipped over the fact that Nash made it. Wow. I'd have Hall over Nash on international size ice in a heartbeat and I'm not sure it's even close

[Suburban Rhythm]

DOLA - I completely skipped over the fact that Nash made it. Wow. I'd have Hall over Nash on international size ice in a heartbeat and I'm not sure it's even close

I'd argue Hall, Giroux, MSL, Neal...and probably a few others the longer I thought, over Rick Nash at this point.

[BishopMVP]

Penguin fan saying Orpik probably shouldn't be there. Though not for the reason most often cited. He'll be fine on the big ice. He can really skate, especially for a guy his size.

But he's been declining for two years now.

If you didn't read this -

http://espn.go.com/olympics/hockey/story/_/id/10195703/how-us-hockey-team-bound-sochi-olympics-was-namedI know why Bylsma wants Orpik/Martin, so I can't be too mad at their selection, but if it was any other coaching staff I'd be mad. Did catch that piece. For all the controversy over Bobby Ryan, I actually thought Burkie was harsher on Keith Yandle. And it does kinda show that Burke was running the show and had personal grudges against those two - anything short of leading the NHL in scoring and they'd have been left off.
I dont get the Giroux love. hes always talked about like a superstar, and as a long time fantasy owner (I cant fathom how I end up with him ever year) he always slumping ALWAYS. he a decent centerman, who plays decent (not great) defence, and has offensive tools that dont seem to ever add up to consistent production.He's the leading Canadian scorer over the past 3 seasons. Player Season Finder | Hockey-Reference.com (http://www.hockey-reference.com/play-index/psl_finder.cgi?request=1&match=combined&year_min=2012&year_max=&season_start=1&season_end=-1&age_min=0&age_max=99&birth_country=CA&franch_id=&is_active=&is_hof=&pos=S&handed=&c1stat=points&c1comp=gt&c1val=125&c2stat=&c2comp=gt&c2val=&c3stat=&c3comp=gt&c3val=&c4stat=&c4comp=gt&c4val=&order_by=points)

[DaddyTorgo]

DOLA

-

http://espn.go.com/olympics/hockey/story/_/id/10195703/how-us-hockey-team-bound-sochi-olympics-was-named

- great (long) piece about US selection.


Great piece. Feel like it should be on Grantland it's so long.

[Fidatelo]

He's the leading Canadian scorer over the past 3 seasons. Player Season Finder | Hockey-Reference.com (http://www.hockey-reference.com/play-index/psl_finder.cgi?request=1&match=combined&year_min=2012&year_max=&season_start=1&season_end=-1&age_min=0&age_max=99&birth_country=CA&franch_id=&is_active=&is_hof=&pos=S&handed=&c1stat=points&c1comp=gt&c1val=125&c2stat=&c2comp=gt&c2val=&c3stat=&c3comp=gt&c3val=&c4stat=&c4comp=gt&c4val=&order_by=points)

That list is actually kind of amazing when you look at it: half of the top 15 Canadian scorers over the past 3 years did not make the roster.

[Suburban Rhythm]

I know why Bylsma wants Orpik/Martin, so I can't be too mad at their selection, but if it was any other coaching staff I'd be mad. Did catch that piece. For all the controversy over Bobby Ryan, I actually thought Burkie was harsher on Keith Yandle. And it does kinda show that Burke was running the show and had personal grudges against those two - anything short of leading the NHL in scoring and they'd have been left off.
He's the leading Canadian scorer over the past 3 seasons. Player Season Finder | Hockey-Reference.com (http://www.hockey-reference.com/play-index/psl_finder.cgi?request=1&match=combined&year_min=2012&year_max=&season_start=1&season_end=-1&age_min=0&age_max=99&birth_country=CA&franch_id=&is_active=&is_hof=&pos=S&handed=&c1stat=points&c1comp=gt&c1val=125&c2stat=&c2comp=gt&c2val=&c3stat=&c3comp=gt&c3val=&c4stat=&c4comp=gt&c4val=&order_by=points)

That list is actually kind of amazing when you look at it: half of the top 15 Canadian scorers over the past 3 years did not make the roster.

My mind is blown over Matt Moulson being tied in scoring with Corey Perry.

[johnnyshaka]

Somebody on an Anaheim board was trying to argue for Taylor Hall and I think I agree - he's a bonafide superstar on a train wreck of a team who is rounding out his game. He'd be on my team for sure, and I think he could be one of the stars of the tournament playing with better players

Love how one of the decision makers, Six Rings Lowe, couldn't garner enough pull to get him on the team yet he can keep himself employed after all the crap he's put Oilers' fans through for nearly a decade. Mind boggling.