NHL Off-Topic thread

[SPTO]

Re: NHL Off-Topic thread

Too bad it's the Rangers. I know it's done cause of the original 6 stuff and everything, but Rangers I'd say are 4th on that list of original 6 rivals to the Leafs. But since Habs/Bruins doing it this year,and Leafs-Wings already happened, it'll just have to be Leafs-Rangers. Should've been 2 Canadian teams in it though.

Who gets Nick Kypreos in alumni game? lol

He would play for each side in the first two periods then bow out in the 3rd

[Majingir]

Re: NHL Off-Topic thread

He would play for each side in the first two periods then bow out in the 3rd

He'd probably play for Leafs, cause their alumni depth sucks.

Unless Leafs want to stretch abit when selecting players. Doesn't matter how many games they played for the team,if they were ever a member of the team, they're in the game.

Everyone from Grant Fuhr to Phil Housley lol.

Really, hope they do have good alumni roster. Sundin,Gilmour,Cujo and others.

[Money99]

Re: NHL Off-Topic thread

Regarding the Leafs, i'm hearing the rebrand is going to be completely off the wall. They're totally changing everything.

On another Leafs related note there's an unconfirmed report stating the Leafs will host the Rangers at BMO Field for the 2017 Winter Classic to commemorate the NHL and the Leafs' 100th anniversary.

I wonder how much? Would they include a 3rd colour?

[Majingir]

Re: NHL Off-Topic thread

Just wanted to get some "unbiased" opinions on the whole Stamkos/Ligtning/Leafs thing. Do people really see Stamkos leaving Tampa? And if so, what teams could be the biggest faves to get him? Cause obviously everyone around here is hoping he does leave Tampa and go to the Leafs,but that seems more of a biased opinion from Leaf fans.

I wonder how much? Would they include a 3rd colour?

They better not introduce a 3rd color. Just some small green patch as one of their 100th season patches(cause of the St.Pats) but outside of that, no reason to be adding some extra color. Leafs are blue & white. No other color needed.

[redsox4evur]

Re: NHL Off-Topic thread

Just wanted to get some "unbiased" opinions on the whole Stamkos/Ligtning/Leafs thing. Do people really see Stamkos leaving Tampa? And if so, what teams could be the biggest faves to get him? Cause obviously everyone around here is hoping he does leave Tampa and go to the Leafs,but that seems more of a biased opinion from Leaf fans.

No unless they don't have the cap room to resign him he's not leaving.

[Majingir]

Re: NHL Off-Topic thread

No unless they don't have the cap room to resign him he's not leaving.

I don't see money being the reason why he leaves Tampa. Cause all teams are probably gonna be offering similar amounts,and while he might get more cause of being in Tampa(cause of the taxes vs other cities), the amount he gets in merchandise/endorsements and stuff will probably erase the difference in taxes.

If the rumors about his relationship with Cooper are true, then don't really see him wanting to stay with that team.

http://www.sportsnet.ca/hockey/nhl/jonathan-bernier-trade-toronto-maple-leafs-confidence-calgary-flames-hiller-ramo/

Brian Burke and Brad Treliving(Flames GM) were in attendance for Leafs-Lightning game last night. I've been saying this for awhile,how I think Bernier should be dealt to the Flames, maybe there's actually some life in a possible deal.

[DrJones]

Re: NHL Off-Topic thread

I don't see money being the reason why he leaves Tampa. Cause all teams are probably gonna be offering similar amounts,and while he might get more cause of being in Tampa(cause of the taxes vs other cities), the amount he gets in merchandise/endorsements and stuff will probably erase the difference in taxes.

Don't forget the Lightning can offer an 8th year.

Here's how I'd break it down:

Stamkos stays in Tampa, signs 8/80 contract: 65%

Stamkos leaves for possible Cup contender with cap space, signs 7/70-75 contract (likely with Kings if they think Kopitar is declining; maybe Sharks): 25%

Stamkos leaves for $$$, signs 7/80-85 contract with dumb spendthrift (Leafs, Flyers, maybe desperate Avs): 10%

Best fit is probably Nashville, but I always think that when an elite forward is available. I doubt the Preds are willing (or able) to pay.

Brian Burke and Brad Treliving(Flames GM) were in attendance for Leafs-Lightning game last night. I've been saying this for awhile,how I think Bernier should be dealt to the Flames, maybe there's actually some life in a possible deal.

The Flames choosing to "upgrade" in net from Hiller to Bernier is laughable, but considering Burke was the founder (and only member) of the Dan Cloutier Fan Club, I suppose anything is possible.

[Speedy]

Re: NHL Off-Topic thread

So...I used to love to watch hockey (Hurricanes!) but haven't in nearly 5 years consistently. It's a shame too but it's just not a sport I think of anymore.

It gets what, 5 minutes of love on ESPN and there's no marketing here in the US nor any primetime games. I watch sports constantly and cannot tell you who the top two teams in the league are beyond what I'm assuming is LA and CHI, along with probably Tampa - all that is off of memory for them being in finals the past few years.

Maybe one day I'll fall in love with it again like my old NHL '99 days.

[redsox4evur]

Re: NHL Off-Topic thread

So...I used to love to watch hockey (Hurricanes!) but haven't in nearly 5 years consistently. It's a shame too but it's just not a sport I think of anymore.

It gets what, 5 minutes of love on ESPN and there's no marketing here in the US nor any primetime games. I watch sports constantly and cannot tell you who the top two teams in the league are beyond what I'm assuming is LA and CHI, along with probably Tampa - all that is off of memory for them being in finals the past few years.

Maybe one day I'll fall in love with it again like my old NHL '99 days.

Turn on NBCSN right now...there is a national game on right now. Or there was don't know if it's over or not. You are right about the ESPN coverage though. And there is a little marketing out there because the Winter Classic coming up on 1/1. And they are showing a hard knocks type show on EPIX starting soon. Maybe tonight.

[Majingir]

Re: NHL Off-Topic thread

It gets what, 5 minutes of love on ESPN and there's no marketing here in the US nor any primetime games.

That's the problem with NHL. It sucks at times to see how it gets treated by some of the American media. I heard a month or so back that supposedly during a ESPN recap of a game on Sports Center,the reporter was basically mocking the fact that he had to recap hockey games, basically snickering and stuff inbetween mentioning teams and players.

Too bad it's not like other sports where they're able to get the multiple big USA Networks covering their game. So even when doing highlights,those networks will at lest try to recap things. Only being on NBC does suck,but NBC is only one who cares about them right now. ESPN/FOX/ABC couldn't care less about NHL.

(completely my "uncommon opinion" below)
There's a reason USA is barely a top 5 country in hockey, and my own opinion of it is that it has a big part to do with the media and the way hockey is viewed. Sure,it won't ever be on a NBA,NFL,MLB level of popular,but in USA,it's even behind college sports,and seems like even NASCAR too. Every other country that's good at hockey,it seems like it's in top 2-3 most popular sports/leagues in that country. Hockey to me,seems like it doesn't even crack top 5 in USA(pro basketball,pro football,pro baseball,college basketball,college football,nascar, I'd say are ahead of hockey)

[Majingir]

Re: NHL Off-Topic thread

Don't forget the Lightning can offer an 8th year.

Here's how I'd break it down:

Stamkos stays in Tampa, signs 8/80 contract: 65%

Stamkos leaves for possible Cup contender with cap space, signs 7/70-75 contract (likely with Kings if they think Kopitar is declining; maybe Sharks): 25%

Stamkos leaves for $$$, signs 7/80-85 contract with dumb spendthrift (Leafs, Flyers, maybe desperate Avs): 10%

Best fit is probably Nashville, but I always think that when an elite forward is available. I doubt the Preds are willing (or able) to pay.



The Flames choosing to "upgrade" in net from Hiller to Bernier is laughable, but considering Burke was the founder (and only member) of the Dan Cloutier Fan Club, I suppose anything is possible.

If Tampa can't re-sign him,I wonder if they'd trade his rights to someone else for a conditional pick(which would depend on if the other team can sign him or not). Maybe something like that could be Leafs best bet to get him. If he truly doesn't want to stay in Tampa, Leafs give up a pick to get his rights and be able to offer that 8th year. More guaranteed money + the extra money from endorsements.

But if Bernier can bounce back, it'd be worth it for the Flames. They got no real G options under contract past this season, so won't exactly hurt to try,especially if all they give up is Ramo and a pick where the condition regarding the round of the pick depends on if Bernier is good or not.

[Money99]

Re: NHL Off-Topic thread

Just wanted to get some "unbiased" opinions on the whole Stamkos/Ligtning/Leafs thing. Do people really see Stamkos leaving Tampa? And if so, what teams could be the biggest faves to get him? Cause obviously everyone around here is hoping he does leave Tampa and go to the Leafs,but that seems more of a biased opinion from Leaf fans.

I think he's gone.
I don't think he see's eye-to-eye with his coach and the fact that Cooper got extended before him speaks volumes to me.
It's like Yzerman's telling him and the team, this is our guy and he's not going anywhere.
Also, if Stamkos does get an 8/80 deal, then that means after Johnson and Hedman, there's not much room for the other RFA's they have coming up in the next 2 years.
I really like Stamkos, but to me, the smarter play is to deal him (or let him walk) and use that cash to build a more balanced team.

And as nutty as this sounds, I wouldn't put Florida out of play for Stamkos.
They have the Cap room and boy would that make for a headline if he signed with the Panthers.
It would also keep him in the state where his parents and girlfriend live full time, as well as keep in connected to the various charity's he's established.

That's the problem with NHL. It sucks at times to see how it gets treated by some of the American media. I heard a month or so back that supposedly during a ESPN recap of a game on Sports Center,the reporter was basically mocking the fact that he had to recap hockey games, basically snickering and stuff inbetween mentioning teams and players.

Too bad it's not like other sports where they're able to get the multiple big USA Networks covering their game. So even when doing highlights,those networks will at lest try to recap things. Only being on NBC does suck,but NBC is only one who cares about them right now. ESPN/FOX/ABC couldn't care less about NHL.

(completely my "uncommon opinion" below)
There's a reason USA is barely a top 5 country in hockey, and my own opinion of it is that it has a big part to do with the media and the way hockey is viewed. Sure,it won't ever be on a NBA,NFL,MLB level of popular,but in USA,it's even behind college sports,and seems like even NASCAR too. Every other country that's good at hockey,it seems like it's in top 2-3 most popular sports/leagues in that country. Hockey to me,seems like it doesn't even crack top 5 in USA(pro basketball,pro football,pro baseball,college basketball,college football,nascar, I'd say are ahead of hockey)

Good points.

My opinion is that hockey will never be considered a 'top sport' until a few things happen:
- The violence ends. Fist-fighting in a sporting event appeases a small portion of society, but you'll never gain a mainstream audience if this continues.
- scoring is way, way, way too low. The league needs to return to the days of 7.5-8.5 GPG. It also needs a minimum of ten players recording 100+ point seasons and the minimum two or three 50-goal scorers.
An 87-point Art Ross winner isn't going to endear the sport to anyone. Even in soccer, the top goal scorers record about 1 goal per game.
Wayne Gretzky was a house-hold name even in the U.S. while playing for Edmonton. EDMONTON!
Nobody can tell me that more American's wouldn't stand up and take notice if the league featured high scoring, exciting players from Philly, Bos or even Arizona.
- game needs to get back on ESPN - which probably doesn't happen unless the first 2 are addressed.

Whether people love or hate ESPN, they drive the industry. Heck, I think it's pathetic that ESPN anchors are, at times, more famous than the athletes themselves.
But that's the truth. If the NHL gets back on that station, the league has a chance to prosper.
But as it stands, NHL hockey is pretty much 100% regional.
I'd venture to say that 99% of fans follow one team only. Even my hockey loving buddies don't have a clue who plays where anymore.
But I can't say I blame them. Why would an out-of-market fan tune into any game that doesn't feature their favourite team?
Most games these days are incredibly boring to watch with nothing really happening for long stretches.

[slickdtc]

Re: NHL Off-Topic thread

Yeah ESPN is worthless for any hockey coverage. Their anchors struggle so hard through hockey highlights.

It's pretty sad how they treat what is still considered a top 4 major sports league.

FS1 and NBCSN do the game so much more justice whether in highlights coverage or game presentation. NHL pretty much cut the cord with ESPN, and though it hurts them, I'm glad they walked away. No sense in being where you're not wanted.

Isn't ESPN broadcasting the World Cup thingy they're doing next year? With the crazy teams? That might be pretty fun.

[Money99]

Re: NHL Off-Topic thread

Yeah ESPN is worthless for any hockey coverage. Their anchors struggle so hard through hockey highlights.

It's pretty sad how they treat what is still considered a top 4 major sports league.

FS1 and NBCSN do the game so much more justice whether in highlights coverage or game presentation. NHL pretty much cut the cord with ESPN, and though it hurts them, I'm glad they walked away. No sense in being where you're not wanted.

Isn't ESPN broadcasting the World Cup thingy they're doing next year? With the crazy teams? That might be pretty fun.

I believe you are correct sir; ESPN is broadcasting the games.

To add to the list, another thing that hurts the NHL is that the standings and format is a bit confusing to a lot of people.
People might shake their heads and wonder what OTL or SO losses are.
And they might also wonder why the regular season has different rules for OT than the playoffs.
It might seem simple, but I can see why some might think this is a bit Mickey Mouse in the large scheme of things.

I'd love it if the NHL adopted a play till you win scenario with OT and then even adopt 3-on-3 in the playoffs.
Just make it the same.
But then that would destroy Gary's false-parity scheme so teams can still win less than 50% of their games and maintain an above .500 record.

[DrJones]

Re: NHL Off-Topic thread

I think he's gone.
I don't think he see's eye-to-eye with his coach and the fact that Cooper got extended before him speaks volumes to me.
It's like Yzerman's telling him and the team, this is our guy and he's not going anywhere.
Also, if Stamkos does get an 8/80 deal, then that means after Johnson and Hedman, there's not much room for the other RFA's they have coming up in the next 2 years.
I really like Stamkos, but to me, the smarter play is to deal him (or let him walk) and use that cash to build a more balanced team.

The "Stamkos hates coach, therefore wants to bail on Cup contender" narrative strikes me as odd for several reasons:

1. What if Stamkos signs for big money with another team, then doesn't get along with the new coach?

2. Yzerman would really favour Cooper over Stamkos?

3. If there's any truth to this, shouldn't Stamkos be ripped to shreds for being a selfish player who puts money and ego before team and winning? *looks at Stammer's birthplace* Oh wait, never mind.

Now, Stamkos and Cooper might not get along, but I find it difficult to believe that this would be the primary reason for Stamkos leaving the Bolts. If he does end up going, my best guess is that it's due to Stamkos demanding top dollar, and the Lightning being reluctant to comply because of 1.) needing money to pay Hedman and the Triplets (as you mentioned) and 2.) lingering doubt that Stamkos will ever return to his pre-injury offensive peak.