Monday Caps Clips: The 'Alex Ovechkin Hat Trick'
by J.P. on Oct 19, 2009 6:27 AM EDT
in Caps Clips
177 comments
Your savory breakfast links:
- It's now or never for Eric Fehr. [Washington Times]
- No matter your thoughts on Saturday night's hat-throwing salute to Alex Ovechkin's third time putting a puck past Dan Ellis in the same game (and The Boss seemed to like it), it wasn't, as Bruce Boudreau noted post-game, "a Washington original" - check around the 1:40 mark here, for example (h/t redlineblue).
- Speaking of Saturday night hat tricks, Dmitry Chesnokov chatted with Ovechkin, Semyon Varlamov and Shea Weber. Our chapeaus are off to you, comrade. [Examiner, Examiner and Examiner]
- On Braden Holtby's wild ride the past week. [John Walton Hockey]
- One game, one fight (and a helper) for Joe Finley in South Carolina. [John Walton Hockey]
- A former Cap believes that an there's an "anti-francophone virus" plaguing the NHL. Better get your shots. [National Post]
- A couple of good "hockey stats" discussions here (responded to here) and here.
- Finally, happy 26th birthday to Boyd Gordon.
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As I brought my calendar magnet to work to put somewhere, I noticed the relative dearth of quality opponents on the docket for the next month or so (8 of the next 11 vs. non-playoff teams from last year, by a rough count). Other than that, I’ve got nothing.
"It's an incredible place. Every seat feels like it's right on top of you. So can't we just make it official? Every big American soccer game should be played in RFK. We need the home-field advantage. Done and done."
by Bald Pollack on Oct 19, 2009 7:44 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
No, you’ve got a schedule magnet.
Maybe play with an edge, be a little more physical -- maybe be more of a prick out there.
by jordanDC on Oct 19, 2009 8:19 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I actually kind of like that. Let’s see how they do in this run – playing down to an opponent’s level wasa big problem last year.
Never lie, steal, cheat, or drink. But, if you must lie, lie in the arms of the one you love. If you must steal, steal away from bad company. If you must cheat, cheat death. If you must drink, drink in the moments that take your breath away.
by gotsparkly on Oct 19, 2009 8:40 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
“When was the last time we played down to our competition? We’ve lost two games [in regulation] in our last 14 and [the Kings] won [four] games in a row on that road trip against good teams. We weren’t playing down to them — they were playing really well. Colorado has won [two] games in a row and is desperate. Every team has sense of urgency, and it is the NHL — there’s no bad teams. Do we think we are holier than thou? We don’t. We thinl we’re a hard-working team that has had some success. That question is not a good question.” – Boudreau
So playing down to an opponent’s level wasn’t a problem, let alone a big one. Because Bruce said so. Uh, yeah.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
by J.P. on Oct 19, 2009 8:51 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
There are some organization-wide accountability issues. Big time. Guys are comfortable.
by TylerG on Oct 19, 2009 8:58 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Bring in Mike Keenan!
Atta dinnin stick a who!
by Gould Old Days on Oct 19, 2009 9:01 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
As an offensive consultant, and then in three weeks let him call plays?
I'm so sick and tired of the refs explaining the calls like this is the NFL.
by Whiter Mage on Oct 19, 2009 9:02 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Too soon? poor Deadskins…
"I am... *grins* ... 'Nobody' "
- Odysseus
by war_capitals on Oct 19, 2009 11:08 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Maybe we should just forfeit all our games til Thanksgiving, then, in last place, we will finally have some motivation.
I feel the same away about avatars as Ovechkin does about speed limits.
by Ovechkin on Oct 19, 2009 10:07 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
In all seriousness, after hearing Brooks Laich on the Hockey Diaries, the whole accountability thing starts to seem a little overly simplistic. The NHL is an entire league of hard workers who are trying their best to play disciplined, creative hockey.
I’m not sure what the answer is, but I had a greater appreciation for how hard those guys work every day. Obviously, there are games where one team is outworking the other. I guess it made me realize how fine a line needs to be walked. One one side the team takes it too easy, and on the other side you lose them mentally because of the constant harangues.
When Bruce says things like that the team doesn’t need any additional motivation because they’re all professionals, that used to sound like a cop-out. It resonates with me after hearing the diaries. It’s McPhee’s job to find people who are motivated. It’s Boudreau’s job to focus that motivation in the appropriate places.
Atta dinnin stick a who!
by Gould Old Days on Oct 19, 2009 9:13 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I mostly agree with you, but Bruce saying the Caps don’t play to the level of their opponent is like Zorn taking the blame for all of the Redskins’ woes, it just rings hollow.
I think that the problem is maturity. At some point the kids grow into men, it happened with Crosby/Malkin last year when they were playing with Guerin. I wanted it to happen with Feds but it didn’t seem too. Hopefully they will do it themselves or GMGM will bring in a Guerin type that can help the process.
by Sct112 on Oct 19, 2009 9:36 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Semin did. He still makes mistakes, but do you remember what he was like before Feds? I mean, seriously, that boy has matured.
by DrinkingPartner on Oct 19, 2009 9:43 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
So now Semin can tie his shoes and wear big-boy underpants instead of pooping in a diaper. He’s made progress, but he’s not a man yet.
If you're after gettin' the honey, then you don't go killin' all them bees.
by Fehr and Balanced on Oct 19, 2009 1:08 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
Related to Thursday’s opponent, a nice story about the Thrash going to help open a new ice arena named for Dan Snyder.
"It's an incredible place. Every seat feels like it's right on top of you. So can't we just make it official? Every big American soccer game should be played in RFK. We need the home-field advantage. Done and done."
by Bald Pollack on Oct 19, 2009 9:00 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I read that. I thought it was an extremely nice thing for them to do. Obviously, the memory of Snyder’s still on their minds, and made me think more about Kovalchuk after reading it.
I'm so sick and tired of the refs explaining the calls like this is the NFL.
by Whiter Mage on Oct 19, 2009 9:02 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Riiiight. Well, let’s see if they got the necessary kick in the balls watching Crosby raise the Cup. Guess we’ll find out.
Never lie, steal, cheat, or drink. But, if you must lie, lie in the arms of the one you love. If you must steal, steal away from bad company. If you must cheat, cheat death. If you must drink, drink in the moments that take your breath away.
by gotsparkly on Oct 19, 2009 9:01 AM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
Flagged for inappropriate.
I'm so sick and tired of the refs explaining the calls like this is the NFL.
by Whiter Mage on Oct 19, 2009 9:02 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Couldn’t agree more. That’s a visual image that’s not appropriate for children, or even adults with weak hearts. No more discussion of the Pens’ Cup.
Atta dinnin stick a who!
by Gould Old Days on Oct 19, 2009 9:04 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Oh dear. Sorry, didn’t mean to offend.
Never lie, steal, cheat, or drink. But, if you must lie, lie in the arms of the one you love. If you must steal, steal away from bad company. If you must cheat, cheat death. If you must drink, drink in the moments that take your breath away.
by gotsparkly on Oct 19, 2009 9:07 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
THEY CAN’T HANDLE THE TRUTH!
Man, if they ever needed motivation… Bruce should just sit them down and make them watch some of THAT before each game. It would make me want to skate thru a brick wall to make sure it never happens again?
"I am... *grins* ... 'Nobody' "
- Odysseus
by war_capitals on Oct 19, 2009 11:11 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Game 7 should be on loop in the locker room and entire training facility all year.
If you're after gettin' the honey, then you don't go killin' all them bees.
by Fehr and Balanced on Oct 19, 2009 1:09 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Any discussion of “Crosby” and “Cup” should be required to include “Valabik.”
If you're after gettin' the honey, then you don't go killin' all them bees.
by Fehr and Balanced on Oct 19, 2009 1:09 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Will the Sirois book be available in English?
Maybe play with an edge, be a little more physical -- maybe be more of a prick out there.
by jordanDC on Oct 19, 2009 8:25 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Je ne sais pas.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
by J.P. on Oct 19, 2009 8:34 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Could be fun. I need to brush up on my French again, although he’s probably using Canadian idiom. (The difference between French and French Canadian is sort of like the difference between American English and the Queen’s English.)
Never lie, steal, cheat, or drink. But, if you must lie, lie in the arms of the one you love. If you must steal, steal away from bad company. If you must cheat, cheat death. If you must drink, drink in the moments that take your breath away.
by gotsparkly on Oct 19, 2009 8:39 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
and its probably full of sports jargon. I was reading the Montreal papers during 2008 worlds in an attempt to practice my French and it was way harder than I expected.
by RedBirdie on Oct 19, 2009 9:50 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
And one goal short of a Gordie Howe for Finley.
Never lie, steal, cheat, or drink. But, if you must lie, lie in the arms of the one you love. If you must steal, steal away from bad company. If you must cheat, cheat death. If you must drink, drink in the moments that take your breath away.
by gotsparkly on Oct 19, 2009 8:35 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Happy birthday, Boyd. Boudreau’s present to you is a faceoff opportunity in the offensive zone.
"If you're gonna die after 24, might as well jump out at 23:59, no?"
by Laich It Or Lump It on Oct 19, 2009 8:39 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Too bad there’s no game tonight for him to get a goal. That seems to be required, no?
by gfcaps fan on Oct 19, 2009 8:24 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
In the moral victory column: Who’d have thought that the Preds would be the highest scoring pro team from Nashville this weekend?
by b.orr4 on Oct 19, 2009 8:43 AM EDT reply actions 1 recs
I am really enjoying Chesnokov’s work. North American print reporters have a distinct style, which means that the interviews from most media outlets really start to all sound the same after a while.
Chesnokov has a very different approach. Much less focused on getting “news” and more focused on giving you an insight on who these people are and on entertaining the reader. So you get results like learning that Shea Weber has a sense of humor, but that Varlamov and Nabokov are both really earnest and serious (and refuse to take the bait).
I love that he tries to provoke a rivalry or to get the player to talk smack in basically every interview.
Atta dinnin stick a who!
by Gould Old Days on Oct 19, 2009 8:59 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Keep in mind that he’s not actually reporting, but writing for a blog. Examiner sites are hard to discern, but after a while you can tell the difference. I do like him, though.
by gfcaps fan on Oct 19, 2009 8:25 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
"Selanne Hat Trick"
We’re a little late to the party.
tictactoehockey.blogspot.com
myunjustifiedego.blogspot.com
by turnituptoeleven on Oct 19, 2009 9:11 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Besides, with all respect to The Ted, when and if something is named The Ovechkin Hat Trick, it should be cooler than that. How about four goals, an assist, and a broken nose?
Atta dinnin stick a who!
by Gould Old Days on Oct 19, 2009 9:17 AM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
How about simply a goal, an assist, and a injury sustained during the game?
Never lie, steal, cheat, or drink. But, if you must lie, lie in the arms of the one you love. If you must steal, steal away from bad company. If you must cheat, cheat death. If you must drink, drink in the moments that take your breath away.
by gotsparkly on Oct 19, 2009 9:18 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
TIUT11’s original link didn’t work for me. Here’s the page.
Atta dinnin stick a who!
by Gould Old Days on Oct 19, 2009 9:24 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Thanks for that.
And yes: Four Goals, an assist, and an injury — The Ovechkin Hatty
tictactoehockey.blogspot.com
myunjustifiedego.blogspot.com
by turnituptoeleven on Oct 19, 2009 9:28 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Gotta love the Philly media… 3-2 in OT with Selanne single-handedly outscoring the entire Flyer team (including the goalie-pulled tying goal with seconds left to force overtime), and your first star of the game… Pronger of course.
What? He had a goal too!
God kills a kitten every time Sidney whines.
by Chris meet Alex on Oct 19, 2009 12:20 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
The Semin hat trick is goal, assist, stick penalty.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
by J.P. on Oct 19, 2009 9:51 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I believe that’s a goal, assist and a bad stick penalty.
God kills a kitten every time Sidney whines.
by Chris meet Alex on Oct 19, 2009 12:23 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I thought the AO hat trick was a blonde pre-game, a goal, and a blonde post-game.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
by J.P. on Oct 19, 2009 9:35 AM EDT up reply actions 3 recs
I don’t know. That sounds too close to Two Girls and a Cup.
by b.orr4 on Oct 19, 2009 9:43 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Should AO ever win the Cup, you can bet he’ll celebrate with two girls.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
by J.P. on Oct 19, 2009 9:45 AM EDT up reply actions 2 recs
At least.
Maybe play with an edge, be a little more physical -- maybe be more of a prick out there.
by jordanDC on Oct 19, 2009 9:45 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
boom!
I feel the same away about avatars as Ovechkin does about speed limits.
by Ovechkin on Oct 19, 2009 10:08 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Alternatively, since a regular hat trick is three of something in one session…
Atta dinnin stick a who!
by Gould Old Days on Oct 19, 2009 10:13 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
That Montreal game was something else! Best of his career?
by mechanicsville on Oct 19, 2009 9:47 AM EDT via mobile up reply actions 0 recs
4 days between games is a drag, eh?
The Sirois book is just another chapter in the ongoing skirmish between franco and anglo canadians. It won’t be the last one, either. The NHL is uniquely steeped in small town anglo canadian culture, though; one of the pillars of that culture is sneering at the french…draw your own conclusions.
"You're gonna eat that g**d**n Koho, three!"
by fat_daddyo on Oct 19, 2009 9:38 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
I’m just glad we can point at Bouchard and Perreault and be left out of the debate.
Maybe play with an edge, be a little more physical -- maybe be more of a prick out there.
by jordanDC on Oct 19, 2009 9:45 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Caps also have a French-Canadian netminder, if I recall correctly.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
by J.P. on Oct 19, 2009 9:46 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I was talking about drafting, but yes! We do!
Maybe play with an edge, be a little more physical -- maybe be more of a prick out there.
by jordanDC on Oct 19, 2009 9:53 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
The Sirois excerpt specifically said F-C goalies usually get a good look and are drafted in decent numbers.
IS PAЯTY NOW
by Your Nation's Capital on Oct 19, 2009 9:57 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Also Dubuc, right?
I'm so sick and tired of the refs explaining the calls like this is the NFL.
by Whiter Mage on Oct 19, 2009 11:09 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
He doesn’t have a Cap K, and never will.
If you're after gettin' the honey, then you don't go killin' all them bees.
by Fehr and Balanced on Oct 19, 2009 1:15 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Caps get no credit for Bouchard because he has a famous name.
If you're after gettin' the honey, then you don't go killin' all them bees.
by Fehr and Balanced on Oct 19, 2009 1:15 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Impromptu trivia:
Name the Caps all-time leading scorer among Quebec-born players.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
by J.P. on Oct 19, 2009 9:49 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Juneau’s actually fourth, with 234 points as a Cap.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
by J.P. on Oct 19, 2009 9:56 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Bingo. Your top six:
Charron (274)
Cote (270)
Haworth (268)
Juneau (234)
Duchesne (225)
Sirois (211)
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
by J.P. on Oct 19, 2009 9:59 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
(Sorry, b – no cash prize and a deleted comment to boot as I had to correct my typo)
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
by J.P. on Oct 19, 2009 10:00 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Dang. I thought “bingots” was a french-canadian word. Or would that be “bingueaux”?
Fight, you time-wasting figure skaters!
by boutros23 on Oct 19, 2009 10:01 AM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
Precisement
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
by J.P. on Oct 19, 2009 10:04 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I was going to guess Dale Hunter, but that’s just because he looked like he was born in that Nordiques jersey.
Atta dinnin stick a who!
by Gould Old Days on Oct 19, 2009 10:15 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
What’s the French-Canadian analog for the Negro Leagues?
If you're after gettin' the honey, then you don't go killin' all them bees.
by Fehr and Balanced on Oct 19, 2009 1:14 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
OT: Boy, the Skins suck
Kansas City? At home?
Maybe Vinnie will get fired over this debacle.
"You're gonna eat that g**d**n Koho, three!"
by fat_daddyo on Oct 19, 2009 9:40 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
I’d like to pretend that I don’t know who Vinnie is, but since Dan Snyder just bought the local Comedy Central station, I’m still getting news about that awful team and football in general even though I don’t watch CSN when the Caps aren’t on.
I'm so sick and tired of the refs explaining the calls like this is the NFL.
by Whiter Mage on Oct 19, 2009 11:10 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
From the tone of Corey’s article on Fehr, Bruce is ready to shoe horn Flash into the lineup post haste.
“I think there’s a lot of forwards that have to worry. It gives us an option,” Boudreau said. "I don’t know if it’s saying, ‘OK, Eric, you’re going to lose ice time,’ or whomever, but [Fleischmann] is a guy who at full strength we think is a valuable member of our team.
Flash is a one trick pony, and the 2L is taken for the moment by a much more versatile, proven and better player in Brooks Laich. Those 2005-6 Hershey playoff stats must be burned into Bruce’s brain, or he’s perseverating on the craptastic 25+G upside he has. Wake me up when he actually gets to 20 and can maintain an even +/-.
from the house that Red Jesus built
by bigonetimer on Oct 19, 2009 9:48 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
I think it could be the 20 goals at the NHL level, too.
by DrinkingPartner on Oct 19, 2009 9:52 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
well, I guess that’s the point: he actually hasn’t potted 20 at the NHL level. He did get 19 last year in 73 games, but at a 14.5% shooting percentage (career = 8.5% prior to 08-09), and every chance under the sun to produce.
from the house that Red Jesus built
by bigonetimer on Oct 19, 2009 10:05 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Three years ago, when everyone was still sore about losing Bondra (and pushing the Caps to bring him back), wasn’t Brooks Laich the guy who was being labeled a “bust” and who people thought would never score 20 goals at the NHL level?
Atta dinnin stick a who!
by Gould Old Days on Oct 19, 2009 10:21 AM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
Wake me up when he actually gets to 20 and can maintain an even +/-
To further that point, Laich still hasn’t put up a year as a + or even player….in fact he’s the only top 6 player this season with a – rating.
I’m not saying Flash is the end all be all…despite being perceived as Flash apologist on this site, but I will say that his ~20 goals are still needed on a team where the 3rd and 4th lines have combined for 2 goals.
by Yoshietree on Oct 19, 2009 10:40 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
One adds the size and grit to a line not brimming with it, is responsible in the defensive zone, and can score at ES and on special teams. The other is soft and streaky, not very good defensively, and can score at ES and special teams. Which guy do you think fits better with 19-28 again?
from the house that Red Jesus built
by bigonetimer on Oct 19, 2009 11:07 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
How can you define one ~20 goal scorer as streaky and not the other? Brooks didn’t put a shot in the net for the entire month of January last year and four goals in a 30 game period? That’s not streaky?
If you’re trying to compare Laich and Flash, I’d love to why you feel Laich is so much better. Quite frankly, I think Flash gets a bad rap for being a bad defensive player. Is he pushed off the puck to easily? Definitely. But statistically speaking, they are almost equal with the exception of penalties drawn/60.
by Yoshietree on Oct 19, 2009 11:21 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Laich’s play away from the puck is what puts him over Flash in most of our minds.
Maybe play with an edge, be a little more physical -- maybe be more of a prick out there.
by jordanDC on Oct 19, 2009 11:22 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Laich’s play away from the puck
In other words, his maturity.
Atta dinnin stick a who!
by Gould Old Days on Oct 19, 2009 11:42 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Maturity, defense, grit..
Maybe play with an edge, be a little more physical -- maybe be more of a prick out there.
by jordanDC on Oct 19, 2009 11:43 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I think it’s his willingness to do some of the dirty work. That said, don’t overrate his 5-on-5 play – it’s not terribly good.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
by J.P. on Oct 19, 2009 11:44 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I’m not saying Flash is the end all be all…despite being perceived as Flash apologist on this site
Now, now, now. Don’t act like you haven’t earned that reputation. It’s ok, though, Yosh. Just go buy yourself and hang a shingle. The Flash Lobby is open for business.
If you're after gettin' the honey, then you don't go killin' all them bees.
by Fehr and Balanced on Oct 19, 2009 1:19 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Ugh
Should read “Buy yourself a sign and hang a shingle”
If you're after gettin' the honey, then you don't go killin' all them bees.
by Fehr and Balanced on Oct 19, 2009 1:19 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I’ve made it painfully known for the last year that I’m a Flash supporter. I continue to believe that right now he’s a tremendous bargain for the organization. But I’m also one of the first to point out his ability to frustrate with his mistakes, lapses and streakiness.
I’m just surprised that here of all places that a player like Laich (he and Bradley are actually my two favorite players) is perceived to be miles ahead of Flash in all aspects of the game.
by Yoshietree on Oct 19, 2009 1:25 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I do think that ~20 goals at ~$725k is a great bargain in today’s NHL.
I also think that Flash isn’t the kind of guy I want on my team in the post-season, and Laich is.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
by J.P. on Oct 19, 2009 1:26 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
Flash isn’t the kind of guy I want on my team in the post-season
I agree wholeheartedly with the caveat that I’m willing to give him this year’s playoffs to prove himself. I’m not really sure how to define a successful post-season for him, but it’s definitely going to have to be more than he showed last year.
by Yoshietree on Oct 19, 2009 1:39 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I don’t think it’s worth the semantics to call a 19 goal NHLer a non-20 goal getter when he got some important playoff goals for us, too. I understand that Flash is in a lot of people’s doghouses, but the fact remains that he is a better option than some of whom we’ve currently got in the lineup.
by DrinkingPartner on Oct 19, 2009 10:30 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Remember when he was playing great last year before he got pneumonia? No, I think me and gotsparkly tend to be the only ones.
I'm so sick and tired of the refs explaining the calls like this is the NFL.
by Whiter Mage on Oct 19, 2009 11:12 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
There were several games last year where Flash was the best player on the ice. In some cases (San Jose) that’s an indictment of the rest of the team. But that fact is out there. He’s got speed, energy and creativity.
Atta dinnin stick a who!
by Gould Old Days on Oct 19, 2009 11:44 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Everyone remembers that. I think the difference is that not everyone is sold that pneumonia was the sole cause of his precipitous decline in production.
If you're after gettin' the honey, then you don't go killin' all them bees.
by Fehr and Balanced on Oct 19, 2009 1:21 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Especially given the performances leading up to that hot streak and subsequent to the pneumonia.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
by J.P. on Oct 19, 2009 1:27 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I’ll posit right here that Flash sniffs something closer to 10 goals than 20 this year. It’s not his fault he’s got the DVT, but realistically, the guy is shaping up for ~65 games max.
from the house that Red Jesus built
by bigonetimer on Oct 19, 2009 11:15 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I’d bet something around 15. He’s hurt too often, and that’s the only thing that’s kept him from having a 20 goal season. I think a full healthy season of a conditioned Flash is a 25 goal scorer. He has the smarts, it’s just a matter of conditioning and execution at this point (sounds kind of like Semin, no?)
I'm so sick and tired of the refs explaining the calls like this is the NFL.
by Whiter Mage on Oct 19, 2009 11:18 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Right, it’s a matter of conditioning and execution and durability. When he figures these out, he’ll be fine. But how long do you wait?
Maybe play with an edge, be a little more physical -- maybe be more of a prick out there.
by jordanDC on Oct 19, 2009 11:20 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
If you’re willing to wait for Fehr, you’re willing to wait on Flash. And someone mentioned Bondra, and I don’t think that’s too much of a stretch. He showed he was willing to condition before he got pneumonia, and that gives me reason enough to wait a little longer.
I'm so sick and tired of the refs explaining the calls like this is the NFL.
by Whiter Mage on Oct 19, 2009 11:25 AM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
Who said I’m willing to wait for Fehr?
Maybe play with an edge, be a little more physical -- maybe be more of a prick out there.
by jordanDC on Oct 19, 2009 11:31 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Dude, not everybody is Ovechkin or Backstrom. Most players with human talent levels take years to develop. Doesn’t make much sense to be voting them off the island at the first sign of adversity.
Atta dinnin stick a who!
by Gould Old Days on Oct 19, 2009 11:47 AM EDT up reply actions 2 recs
This is an extremely important note. Caps fans have been spoiled by the likes of OV and Backstrom. Most players…non-elite players take time to develop. Quite frankly, I’m still surprised many people here still don’t understand this…especially given the outcry over Mr. Bourque’s ordeal.
/rec’d
by Yoshietree on Oct 19, 2009 11:50 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Agreed. We just have high expectations for them based on their junior and minor league careers. (The grilling is based on hope and desire to see them fulfill their potential)
Maybe play with an edge, be a little more physical -- maybe be more of a prick out there.
by jordanDC on Oct 19, 2009 11:52 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
So BB should call him the Alex Semin of the AHL.
If you're after gettin' the honey, then you don't go killin' all them bees.
by Fehr and Balanced on Oct 19, 2009 1:21 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I don’t think there’s a ton of value in fixating on aggregate numbers alone when you’re talking about how a guy’s who injured produces. I mean, Alex Semin has never scored 40 in a season but it’d be a very, very hard case to make if you were trying to argue that he’s doesn’t have 40 goal talent.
by David M. Getz on Oct 19, 2009 11:19 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I’ll leave that Semin argument for you to make, DMG. I’m arguing that Flash isn’t a 20 goal NHL’er. Don’t you have to hit that mark to get that credit in the first place, or is that number out the window?
More to the point, I’m saying that he’s a worse fit with the presently constructed second line than Brooks.
from the house that Red Jesus built
by bigonetimer on Oct 19, 2009 12:07 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
D’ohboy would be proud.
If you're after gettin' the honey, then you don't go killin' all them bees.
by Fehr and Balanced on Oct 19, 2009 1:18 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Nice ’stache, Murphy.
Winterion Game Studios
Visit us online at : http://winterion.com
by winterion on Oct 19, 2009 2:42 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Hate to disappoint, but when Flash is healthy he’s probably going to the second line. Bruce absolutely loves Flash’s game. Actually, it could be a good move because the third line needs an offensive-minded center and Brooks could fill that bill. We now see that Stecks is much better on the fourth line and Aucoin isn’t the answer on the third. A second line of Flash-Morrison/Backstrom-Semin could be dangerous and a third line of Fehr-Laich-Clark could be very physical, at the very least.
by b.orr4 on Oct 19, 2009 10:05 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I just can’t see the Caps shifting Laich back to center full time. I assume Steckel will go back to the third line once Gordo’s back clears up.
by RedBirdie on Oct 19, 2009 10:11 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I like a Laich-Steckel-Fehr third line, m’self.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
by J.P. on Oct 19, 2009 10:12 AM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
that is a mighty nice looking line.
by RedBirdie on Oct 19, 2009 10:15 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Steckel to win the faceoff, Fehr to generate the shots on goal, and Laich to crowd the crease and bury the rebounds. This I like.
"If you're gonna die after 24, might as well jump out at 23:59, no?"
by Laich It Or Lump It on Oct 19, 2009 10:38 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I think I’d rather see a playmaker (Flash) on that line. Laich’s had good chemistry with the top-6 types.
Atta dinnin stick a who!
by Gould Old Days on Oct 19, 2009 11:48 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Brooks has been campaigning to play cenetr for a while, so he certainly wouldn’t be against it. I’ve got doubts about Gordon’s back and his spot on this team.
by b.orr4 on Oct 19, 2009 10:14 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Boyd’s PK/FO value combined with the fact that he can be QO’d for another year would make his return (presumably) foregone, wonky back aside.
"It's an incredible place. Every seat feels like it's right on top of you. So can't we just make it official? Every big American soccer game should be played in RFK. We need the home-field advantage. Done and done."
by Bald Pollack on Oct 19, 2009 10:22 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
At the very least, that’s a pretty valuable 13th forward (and I think he’s more than that)
Atta dinnin stick a who!
by Gould Old Days on Oct 19, 2009 10:37 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I just don’t agree that the 3rd line needs Laich at the pivot over the top faceoff man in the league.
How about Flash earning that 2L instead of just getting it handed to him? Brooks at that spot is more dangerous than Flash. It’s because Laich is versatile enough to play the 3L that this happens—it ain’t on sustained merit, on which everyone else seems to have to operate, and that’s what bothers me a bit.
from the house that Red Jesus built
by bigonetimer on Oct 19, 2009 10:16 AM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
One way or another, the return of Flash should help our third line immensely. The question is — are we better off leaving Laich with Backstrom and Semin (which has worked before) and putting Flash with Fehr and Steckel on the third line. Or would Laich be better off with Stecks and Fehr and Flash with Semin and Backstrom. Flash and Fehr have been a good combination together in the past (either 2nd or 3rd line).
by CapsFan75 on Oct 19, 2009 7:48 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Worry not, we’ll get to see plenty of both (though probably not for too long at any one time).
If you're after gettin' the honey, then you don't go killin' all them bees.
by Fehr and Balanced on Oct 19, 2009 8:04 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Hockey diaries is on XM right now.
Maybe play with an edge, be a little more physical -- maybe be more of a prick out there.
by jordanDC on Oct 19, 2009 10:04 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
I listened the other night and it was fascinating.
by RedBirdie on Oct 19, 2009 10:12 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Wow, yeah. That was really insightful and amazing. I got chills at the Calder Cup call, and uneasy when I knew the game 7 loss was coming up. Great stuff.
Maybe play with an edge, be a little more physical -- maybe be more of a prick out there.
by jordanDC on Oct 19, 2009 11:01 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
The caps are doing another blood drive, Sign up, save lives!
"And next year it will be ours."
by Ovechwin on Oct 19, 2009 10:26 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Curses, why did I spend so much time in England during the mad cow scare?
"Camaraderie, that's what the Washington Capitals are all about."
by CapitalCentre on Oct 19, 2009 10:51 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
If it’s the swag you are into, even if you attempt to donate blood I think you get it, but it is taking up a potentially legit spot, so…
"And next year it will be ours."
by Ovechwin on Oct 19, 2009 11:48 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Last year my girlfriend didn’t have an appointment and they let her give anyway.. LOTS of people made appointments and didn’t show, so don’t feel too bad.
They were giving away tickets, though.. so maybe less folks will set a time without showing up this year.
Maybe play with an edge, be a little more physical -- maybe be more of a prick out there.
by jordanDC on Oct 19, 2009 11:53 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
they gave out those really awesome Langway bobbleheads at some point, too.
by RedBirdie on Oct 19, 2009 11:58 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yeah, last year it was tickets, Bondra bobblehead, and Bondra himself.
He was just sitting there by himself for a while, too. It kinda made me sad.
Maybe play with an edge, be a little more physical -- maybe be more of a prick out there.
by jordanDC on Oct 19, 2009 12:01 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yeah, it feels a little crass to sign up when I know they’ll reject me just to get some free stuff. Good for them for putting together an event that’s likely to draw plenty of real donations, anyway.
"Camaraderie, that's what the Washington Capitals are all about."
by CapitalCentre on Oct 19, 2009 11:57 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I’m long overdue for a donation. Caps made it easier to remember.
IS PAЯTY NOW
by Your Nation's Capital on Oct 19, 2009 12:20 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yea, the caps started me donating, now I’ve donated just about every time I can.
"And next year it will be ours."
by Ovechwin on Oct 19, 2009 12:22 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Some of us signed up at the Caps Convention.
by gfcaps fan on Oct 19, 2009 8:35 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Oh, and no mention of swag at the time. Do it because you should, not for the swag.
by gfcaps fan on Oct 19, 2009 8:36 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
oh, I probably should have put this in the Saturday post game thread, but I somehow forgot. Prior to the game, Yvon Labre and Rod Langway did a Q&A with STHs. The both have an absolutely wicked sense of humor and both spoke of how much they love being part of the organization. Both stayed to sign autographs, even though the Caps people were trying to slip them away.
by RedBirdie on Oct 19, 2009 10:26 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Sounds like everyone’s practicing today (Erskine, Gordon, Theo) except Semin.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
by J.P. on Oct 19, 2009 10:35 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Semin taking a mental health day? Or is he hurt, which would maybe explain his apparent reluctance to shoot the puck Saturday?
by RedBirdie on Oct 19, 2009 10:48 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Dunno. I’d assume some sort of injury, given that they had yesterday off.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
by J.P. on Oct 19, 2009 11:07 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
New content is up, FYI: Week 3 Ups and Downs
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
by J.P. on Oct 19, 2009 11:06 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Fehr practicing with 4th line (!)
Here’s how they look up front:
Ovechkin-Morrison-Knuble
Laich-Backstrom-Nylander
Laing-Steckel-Bradley-Gordon
Fehr-Aucoin-Clark
"You're gonna eat that g**d**n Koho, three!"
by fat_daddyo on Oct 19, 2009 1:25 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Format fail…anyway, you get the idea, Fehr is on the fourth line (as is Clark, it should be noted).
I don’t like Q on the 3rd, and I don’t like Fehr on the 4th.
"You're gonna eat that g**d**n Koho, three!"
by fat_daddyo on Oct 19, 2009 1:26 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Those are the same lines as skated Saturday, just with “3rd” and “4th” nominally flipped.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
by J.P. on Oct 19, 2009 1:28 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Ah, right. Carry on then.
"You're gonna eat that g**d**n Koho, three!"
by fat_daddyo on Oct 19, 2009 1:32 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
And I think Corey also noted that Gordo left the ice early.
IS PAЯTY NOW
by Your Nation's Capital on Oct 19, 2009 1:47 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
If semin is injured...
Will they keep Nylander there for a game?
by Bman21212 on Oct 19, 2009 3:04 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
No. Next question.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
by J.P. on Oct 19, 2009 3:17 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Does Nylander make the Swedish Olympic team?
Maybe play with an edge, be a little more physical -- maybe be more of a prick out there.
by jordanDC on Oct 19, 2009 3:19 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
No. Next question.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
by J.P. on Oct 19, 2009 3:24 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Why am I plagued with injuries in my fantasy hockey league?
Maybe play with an edge, be a little more physical -- maybe be more of a prick out there.
by jordanDC on Oct 19, 2009 3:27 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
You masturbate too much. Cut back and watch the injuries subside.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
by J.P. on Oct 19, 2009 3:39 PM EDT up reply actions 2 recs
NO U
Maybe play with an edge, be a little more physical -- maybe be more of a prick out there.
by jordanDC on Oct 19, 2009 3:39 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Who plays instead? Who can they afford to call up?
If you're after gettin' the honey, then you don't go killin' all them bees.
by Fehr and Balanced on Oct 19, 2009 3:19 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Sloan to F if Gordo can’t play.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
by J.P. on Oct 19, 2009 3:24 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Huh? If Gordo can’t play that means we have 2 open F spots. Sloan is going to fill one of them. Are we carrying 14 Fs now?
If you're after gettin' the honey, then you don't go killin' all them bees.
by Fehr and Balanced on Oct 19, 2009 3:26 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
It’d be the same lineup as Saturday with Sloan to F, Mo to D, no?
For example,
8-19-22
21-9-16
53-39-10
89-20-17
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
by J.P. on Oct 19, 2009 3:41 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Urgh. Not in any way a fan of that third line, but I don’t see another way to arrange it.
by Knee high to a duck on Oct 19, 2009 3:42 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I forgot Fehr was playing again.
If you're after gettin' the honey, then you don't go killin' all them bees.
by Fehr and Balanced on Oct 19, 2009 3:48 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
(Insert “Understandable, given how Boudreau uses him” joke here)
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
by J.P. on Oct 19, 2009 3:51 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
crap, I better get on board with 28 at RW, ’cause without him our depth on that wing goes right in the shitter.
from the house that Red Jesus built
by bigonetimer on Oct 19, 2009 3:57 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Newflash
If the absence of one guy kills your depth then you have no depth.
If you're after gettin' the honey, then you don't go killin' all them bees.
by Fehr and Balanced on Oct 19, 2009 4:08 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Apropos of nothing (ahem), Perreault, Bouchard and Osala have combined for 1 point (a Bouchard helper) in 17 man games so far this season.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
by J.P. on Oct 19, 2009 4:53 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I’ve had my eye on it. Carlson finally got a goal the other night as well. Most of our young prospects have been off to a slow start (aside from the goalies).
If you're after gettin' the honey, then you don't go killin' all them bees.
by Fehr and Balanced on Oct 19, 2009 5:30 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
If any of them have the C, take it off for someone who produces.
"It's an incredible place. Every seat feels like it's right on top of you. So can't we just make it official? Every big American soccer game should be played in RFK. We need the home-field advantage. Done and done."
by Bald Pollack on Oct 19, 2009 8:28 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yeah. Helmer had the C last year but he didn’t do anything so they sent him to the glue factory. This is a winning organization and our leaders score.
If you're after gettin' the honey, then you don't go killin' all them bees.
by Fehr and Balanced on Oct 19, 2009 8:42 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Fehr and Backstrom have been a good line combination together in the past.
by CapsFan75 on Oct 19, 2009 8:13 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
How are hockey pucks made?
Maybe play with an edge, be a little more physical -- maybe be more of a prick out there.
by jordanDC on Oct 19, 2009 3:21 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Gordie Howe goes on a low fiber diet.
by Knee high to a duck on Oct 19, 2009 3:24 PM EDT up reply actions 5 recs
Nice.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
by J.P. on Oct 19, 2009 3:25 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
what is it with Mike Green trying to kill people with his shot? From tarik:
Theodore was sporting a sizable welt on his left cheek after he was hit in the face by a Mike Green slapshot. Goaltender’s masks are so close and tightly designed that while they prevent any major harm from befalling a goalie, the energy of the shot still transfers to their face.
by RedBirdie on Oct 19, 2009 2:43 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
At least he’s getting it on net.
If you're after gettin' the honey, then you don't go killin' all them bees.
by Fehr and Balanced on Oct 19, 2009 2:46 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
only if it’s Darren Pang…head high on Theo is over the cage. Still.
Maybe it’s the polyester in the jersey now.
from the house that Red Jesus built
by bigonetimer on Oct 19, 2009 4:02 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I heard they stopped making the shade of black tape that he likes.
Maybe play with an edge, be a little more physical -- maybe be more of a prick out there.
by jordanDC on Oct 19, 2009 4:03 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
Head high on Hasek could be kicked out by defenders.
Winterion Game Studios
Visit us online at : http://winterion.com
by winterion on Oct 19, 2009 4:09 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
(Not that it matters much, but that was Katie’s update.)
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
by J.P. on Oct 19, 2009 2:55 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
oops! Haven’t seen Katie do updates for a bit, thought maybe the Redskins beat had stolen her.
by RedBirdie on Oct 19, 2009 2:59 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Well, the Skins beat could use another set of eyes…
by LSF76 on Oct 19, 2009 3:09 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Well, the Skinsbeatscouting department could use another set of eyes…
If you're after gettin' the honey, then you don't go killin' all them bees.
by Fehr and Balanced on Oct 19, 2009 3:16 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Well, the Skinsbeatscouting departmentcould use anotherset of eyesowner
Fixed.
Winterion Game Studios
Visit us online at : http://winterion.com
by winterion on Oct 19, 2009 3:53 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Well, the SkinsIbeat couldreally likeuse another set of eyes…cheese.
Atta dinnin stick a who!
by Gould Old Days on Oct 19, 2009 9:26 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
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Southeast Standings
| GP | W | L | OTL | PT | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Washington
|
21 | 13 | 4 | 4 | 30 |
|
Tampa Bay
|
19 | 8 | 4 | 7 | 23 |
|
Atlanta
|
18 | 10 | 6 | 2 | 22 |
|
Florida
|
19 | 8 | 9 | 2 | 18 |
|
Carolina
|
21 | 4 | 12 | 5 | 13 |
(updated 11.20.2009 at 9:16 AM EST)
Certain photos copyright © 2009 by Associated Press or Getty Images. Any commercial use or distribution without the express written consent of Associated Press and Getty Images is strictly prohibited.
