Between the Ears Between the Pipes
by J.P. on Oct 7, 2009 11:02 AM EDT
148 comments
"He has got to be mentally tougher to play. The one thing that has reared its ugly head right now is they score in bunches on him. ... I think he can get down on himself, and I don't know the answer because I haven't talked to him yet, but I think he gets down on himself, and we've got to get him out of that." - Bruce Boudreau on Semyon Varlamov after last night's loss in Philly
Goalies give up goals. It's what they do. Even the best of 'em let just under one out of every ten shots and two per game get past them and into the net.
Semyon Varlamov is no exception, of course, and it's no secret that he's off to a rough start this fall, with a 3.49 goals against average and a .884 save percentage if you include three preseason starts (5.11/.857 if you don't... so we will).
But the manner in which Varly has been allowing goals lately is particularly worrisome because, as Boudreau notes, it's indicative of a problem that may be more mental than physical. Sure there are technical flaws in Varly's game. But if he doesn't get his head straight, he may not get a chance to correct them at the NHL level.
How bad has it been for the young Russian? Corey Masisak expands on the "bunches" to which Boudreau referred:
Five of the last six times Semyon Varlamov has put a Washington Capitals uniform he has allowed three goals in a period. -- vs. Pittsburgh in Game 7, @ Buffalo and vs. the N.Y. Rangers in the preseason, and vs. Toronto and @ Philadelphia in the regular season. This doesn't even include that Duchesne Cup disaster when he yielded nine goals.The kid looks great for long stretches, but when they start going in ...
In fairness (not that it matters), Varlamov actually gave up a pair in the first period and a pair in the second before being yanked in that Game 7 debacle, but the underlying point remains - to quote The Tragically Hip, "when it starts to fall apart, man, it really falls apart."
Taking a closer look at those five brutal outings (standard "small sample size" disclaimer applies) quantifies the "bunches" further:
Yikes. Though he only allowed a fourth goal in three of the five games, in each of the five Varly allowed a) goals less than four minutes apart and b) without making three saves in between tallies at least once. Four different times opponents beat him on consecutive shots. Also worth noting, only one of the 13 non-first goals allowed in these five games was on the power play. Troubling indeed.
To be sure, the team in front of him shares some culpability for these numbers. But "damage control" is a hugely important skill for a goalie to have, and right now Varly doesn't have it - instead of snuffing out fires, he's fueling them. It's a lot to ask of a 21-year-old netminder to have the poise of a seasoned veteran, but if he's not ready for it... well, there are places where he can get ready. And hopefully the Russian-speaking goalie coach has a pop-psych trick or two up his sleeve that belie his lack of experience in that position.
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Question for you Bears Fans out there: Did Varly have a wonky glove during his time in Hershey last season?
by Kewibr on Oct 7, 2009 11:29 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
He had a wonky glove in the playoffs last year, even. In fact (I can’t remember who scored, though), he had a very similar “glove-malfunction” last year against Pitt, where he got his glove on it, but it went in anyway.
I think the glove itself actually bent inward on that one, though, but the fact remains that he misplayed it pretty much the same way.
by DrinkingPartner on Oct 7, 2009 12:44 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
was against the Rangers for Drury’s weak broken hand goal
Because now I can justify browsing and commenting during the work day with the argument that I am promoting my business.
by Sombrero Guy on Oct 7, 2009 12:46 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Unfortunately we also have the Mark Eaton wonky glove goal. And the Fedotenko wonky glove goal. And then game 7.
If you're after gettin' the honey, then you don't go killin' all them bees.
by Fehr and Balanced on Oct 7, 2009 12:49 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I have faith in their abilities to improve, just like Green has remarkably so from his first pre-season game.
by DrinkingPartner on Oct 7, 2009 12:53 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I just remember him blaming an old glove for last year’s bad-glove playoff goals. If he had shown glove issues in Hershey at the beginning of the season, I’d be more concerned. Could be THIS new Bauer glove is just too stiff and it’s equipment more than focus. Or a little of both.
by Kewibr on Oct 7, 2009 12:55 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I think it’s weird he just left the puck out there, instead of diving for it, or trying to poke it out of the way. That’s a rookie mistake, I guess.
by DrinkingPartner on Oct 7, 2009 12:56 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
It’s a poor craftsman who blames his tools. His glove problems have occurred too often for me to think it is anything other than a focus issue.
Of all our iniquities ignorance may be the worst
by Killer_Carlson on Oct 7, 2009 6:04 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I’d be really interested to know the answer to this.
by sixsevenfiftysix on Oct 7, 2009 12:54 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
The concerns that you have to have to have about Varlamov right now are both mechanical and mental. Young goalies do get down on themselves after goals. It’s just a fact. Good young goalies want to be exceptional and when they are less than stellar they start obsessing about the last shot that went in and lose concentration going forward. The goalies that survive are the ones that develop the mental toughness to shake off the last shot and stop the next one. Mechanically, Varlamov is an extremely athletic goalie, who relies more on reflexes than technique and positioning. Other teams are starting to figure out that Varly can get pulled out of position and leave a gaping net. Part of the issue is that the Caps defense has to learn how to protect the front of the net better. There are plenty of “puck-luggers” on D, but Erksine is the only true stay-at-home physical defenseman and he’s not very mobile. The defense will have to start working on limiting the opposition’s rebound chances, or the glaring positional issues with Varlamov are going to continue to be an issue.
by NHL Observer on Oct 7, 2009 12:03 PM EDT reply actions 1 recs
I don’t disagree that the Caps could do better in front of their own net (see both goals Theo let in last night) but I’m not willing to give Varlamov a pass on this one. He’s been given a largely free ride for his mistakes because of how he played against NYR and in games 1-3 v. PIT but the reality is that since those games he just hasn’t been that good. And fwiw Schultz is the Caps best stay at home defenseman.
If you're after gettin' the honey, then you don't go killin' all them bees.
by Fehr and Balanced on Oct 7, 2009 12:42 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
While I agree with the sentiment, I have issues blaming Varlamov for deflections and quick rebound goals. TOR had a deflection and 2 quick rebound goals. We’ve already discussed rebound control, so won’t go into that again, but I would have been much more upset had he missed the initial save altogether. PHI had a deflection, a perfect screen by Erskine (ugh), and an awful glove folly against him. All in all, better defense (keeps all pucks out of the net all the time) keeps those from going in.
I’m all for accountability – and I’m glad to hear that Varly was 1st on the ice working on his glove hand – but the reality of the situation has to be taken into account, too. And Varly hasn’t had it easy.
Yes, Schultz IS our best SAH Defender.
by DrinkingPartner on Oct 7, 2009 12:51 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Mike Richards’ 2nd and 3rd goals were all on Varlamov. You can’t say shit to the D about that. The 2nd Richards goal was a glorified pass to the pads and he let it underneath him. The third one was just atrocious. Nothing the D could do about that garbage. You don’t anticipate your goalie laying the puck out to the slot like that.
If you're after gettin' the honey, then you don't go killin' all them bees.
by Fehr and Balanced on Oct 7, 2009 12:53 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
That “glorified pass” goal that went thru didn’t hit poti’s skate?? i thought it did…
either way, he should’ve made the shot, so i do agree w/ that.
by Scofield on Oct 7, 2009 12:55 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I heard them say it his Poti’s skate but I didn’t see it on any of the replays. Even if it did the puck wasn’t moving very fast and didn’t change direction much. If his leg pads are flat down on the ice he makes that save easily, deflection or no.
If you're after gettin' the honey, then you don't go killin' all them bees.
by Fehr and Balanced on Oct 7, 2009 12:58 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Why would he go down for a pass, though? He was thinking about moving side to side when the thing ended up in the net.
by DrinkingPartner on Oct 7, 2009 1:00 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
It was a shot, not a pass. It was on net the whole way. It wasn’t a dramatic deflection.
If you're after gettin' the honey, then you don't go killin' all them bees.
by Fehr and Balanced on Oct 7, 2009 1:01 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
truthfully it looked to me like he was just going to use that little “toe save” type kick on that shot, not really moving to the side, and when it got deflected, it went to where his knee wasn’t down yet (as if would’ve been had he anticipated 5-hole)
by Scofield on Oct 7, 2009 1:01 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
It’s not that hard to keep the stick in positiion to cover your five hole unless you’re trying to look flashy or the shot is coming high blocker.
I'm so sick and tired of the refs explaining the calls like this is the NFL.
by Whiter Mage on Oct 7, 2009 1:03 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
kolzig eh? …weak glove too IMO… hmmmmm
by Scofield on Oct 7, 2009 1:04 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Every tall goalie who drops to his knees has struggles with 5-hole. Varlamov isn’t 6’3", and he’s not stand up either.
Also, I don’t really think Kolzig allowed any more five hole goals than anyone else, but if anything, he allowed more on glove and five-hole side because he was nearly unbeatable everywhere else (when he was on).
I'm so sick and tired of the refs explaining the calls like this is the NFL.
by Whiter Mage on Oct 7, 2009 1:06 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Olie was a sucker for weak goals, though. He let an awful lot of those through. When he was on, though, he was the best. No question.
by DrinkingPartner on Oct 7, 2009 1:11 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Richard’s second goal deflected and changed directions. I don’t fault Varly for that.
by DrinkingPartner on Oct 7, 2009 12:55 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
“5.11/8.57 if you don’t… " do you mean 0.857?
Great post, I think JT definitely deserves the start Thursday in NY.
by Ovechkin on Oct 7, 2009 12:28 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Uh, yup. Thanks.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
by J.P. on Oct 7, 2009 12:40 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
This pretty much sums up a lot of what everyone has been thinking. Nice post by NHL Observer too.
I think he is just still in a slump and will be able to work out of this soon.
One guy just drove his semi as a float. I guess semis are cool.
by zephyr on Oct 7, 2009 12:38 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
One more start for Varly
and it won’t be v. the Rangers.
If he can’t get the ship righted, then I think he trades places with Neuvirth.
I have very little confidence in Theo, but he’s better than Varly at this point.
If Schultz doesn’t get a regular sweater, I’m going to be miffed.
"You're gonna eat that g**d**n Koho, three!"
by fat_daddyo on Oct 7, 2009 12:52 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
It’s way too soon to be so worried about this. In 2 games, Varlamov is still 1-0 (statistically), and any game against Philly is going to be difficult. If he has another similar showing against a weaker team, again, then I’ll start to worry.
by DrinkingPartner on Oct 7, 2009 12:54 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
In this case it’s the “how” not the “how many.”
If you're after gettin' the honey, then you don't go killin' all them bees.
by Fehr and Balanced on Oct 7, 2009 12:58 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
True, though a win is a win. He did enough to beat TOR.
by DrinkingPartner on Oct 7, 2009 1:00 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Ha. He sure did! Thank God Varlamov put up a 6 spot in the first two periods!
If you're after gettin' the honey, then you don't go killin' all them bees.
by Fehr and Balanced on Oct 7, 2009 1:01 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I think the 3rd period TOR collapse was much more on the entire team than last night’s flood of goals against.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
by J.P. on Oct 7, 2009 1:03 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I agree, and I’m sure you noticed that my pitchforks weren’t pointed towards our goalie after the TOR meltdown. I was responding to the suggestion that he actually had to do something to beat TOR. He had a couple nice saves but c’mon, the team gave him 6 goals to play with in the first 2 periods and was basically dominant. His athletic style means that he’s going to come up with a couple flashy saves a game (even if it was his athletic style that caused him to need to make an athletic save). He could have let in every good TOR chance and we still probably would have been up after 2. The collapse in the 3rd was about the team, just like the giant lead in the first two.
If you're after gettin' the honey, then you don't go killin' all them bees.
by Fehr and Balanced on Oct 7, 2009 1:12 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I totally agree.
Signed,
O.K.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
by J.P. on Oct 7, 2009 1:04 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
But this team then isn’t showing consistency from player to player. When Alzner’s not showing he’s ready, regardless of the fact he didn’t take a penalty and looked great, he got sent down. More so because of a logjam at his position, but that’s moot in my opinion. If Varlamov is not ready, or even just needs a mental kick, put him in Hershey for a few games, call up Bacashifunnynamehua or Neuwirth, and ride Theo a little more.
In the long run, I think he’ll be ok, but I can’t say I don’t have a little worry.
I'm so sick and tired of the refs explaining the calls like this is the NFL.
by Whiter Mage on Oct 7, 2009 1:00 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I wonder if it might not be better to “ride Theo” and let Varly stay in DC. Semyon has just about squandered the #1/#1A setup going into the season. It’s a crapshoot, but I like his chances of getting his “mind right” with the Caps as opposed to in HER at least for the near term.
by mechanicsville on Oct 7, 2009 1:04 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Odds one month ago that there would be a comment noting both Theo’s superiority to Varly and the need to play Jeff Schultz: 55:1.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
by J.P. on Oct 7, 2009 12:55 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Which is technically 1211:8 :x
I'm so sick and tired of the refs explaining the calls like this is the NFL.
by Whiter Mage on Oct 7, 2009 1:01 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I hate X. it’s been screwing me since algebra 1
by Scofield on Oct 7, 2009 1:02 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Oh emoticons.
I'm so sick and tired of the refs explaining the calls like this is the NFL.
by Whiter Mage on Oct 7, 2009 1:03 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I’ve always thought X was a great band
Ron and Fez 11 to 3
by YvonLabresMoustache on Oct 7, 2009 1:09 PM EDT up reply actions 2 recs
Agreed. And rec’d.
"Good crowd out there tonight, boys, let's really try to win this one."
by Bald Pollack on Oct 7, 2009 1:27 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Odds one month ago that there would be a comment noting both Theo’s superiority to Varly and the need to play Jeff Schultz: 55:1.
Yeah, the fact that Theo, in whom I have very little confidence, looks better than Varly, is not such a great sign. I’m not in panic mode by any stretch, but I just don’t see how you can plan on a season of Varly at this point. I do think he deserves another start to see if he can pull it together.
The Schultz thing is mystifying, though. What is it that the coaching staff sees that I don’t?
"You're gonna eat that g**d**n Koho, three!"
by fat_daddyo on Oct 7, 2009 1:09 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
The Schultz thing is mystifying, though. What is it that the coaching staff sees that I don’t?
To need to display potential trade bait?
by David M. Getz on Oct 7, 2009 1:14 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I like the irony that it’s the Schultz supporters questioning BB’s use of Schultz now. I guess nobody is happy with his playing time.
If you're after gettin' the honey, then you don't go killin' all them bees.
by Fehr and Balanced on Oct 7, 2009 1:16 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
He’s nothing if not polarizing. And awesome. But mostly polarizing.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
by J.P. on Oct 7, 2009 1:17 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Why is that ironic? What am I missing? I’m a Schultz guy and I think Gabby should play him. That’s consistent, right?
by TylerG on Oct 7, 2009 1:20 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Because usually it’s the anti-55 lobby saying he shouldn’t be playing at all when he is playing.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
by J.P. on Oct 7, 2009 1:21 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
It depends how you frame it. I think F&B meant that last year you’d have a lot of people who didn’t have faith in Schultz saying “What the heck is Boudreau doing with this guy?” and now you have the people who like Schultz saying “What the heck is Boudreau doing with this guy”. So even if the opinion stays the same, the reaction to Boudreau’s choices changes.
by David M. Getz on Oct 7, 2009 1:21 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yeah, what you and J.P. said.
If you're after gettin' the honey, then you don't go killin' all them bees.
by Fehr and Balanced on Oct 7, 2009 2:16 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I’m perfectly fine with it thus far.
by David M. Getz on Oct 7, 2009 1:20 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I don’t like sitting him but I think you’re right that it’s to “showcase” our “trade bait.” Until the trade happens, though, it just sucks to have a top 4 D spending time with Nyls.
If you're after gettin' the honey, then you don't go killin' all them bees.
by Fehr and Balanced on Oct 7, 2009 3:23 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
That’s the only explanation I can think of for pairing 3 and 4. It didn’t work.
by TylerG on Oct 7, 2009 1:16 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
As far as we know, Neuvirth is still hurt and Varlamov isn’t even the “#1.” How many teams do you see struggling with their backup decision? It’s not nearly as crucial as it may seem, and I think we as fans are putting way too much on a few bad games (preseason included, FFS), and at the beginning of the year no less. I know Boudreau intend(s/ed?) to play them evenly, but I never saw that happening.
Give it time. I sucked ass at my job when I first started, and I still suck ass, but not nearly as much ass, and that’s the point.
by TFG on Oct 7, 2009 12:58 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Did ass leave so that you didn’t have as much to suck?
by DrinkingPartner on Oct 7, 2009 1:02 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
the “tail” here wants nothing to do with you.
by RedBirdie on Oct 7, 2009 2:22 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I think he was referring to the “tail” at his office, but I imagine that the statement still holds true.
by Sct112 on Oct 7, 2009 3:03 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Add to 55’s regular sweater at least a semi-regular seat for #4 in the press box. That, too, would go a long way in easing my miffedness.
by mechanicsville on Oct 7, 2009 1:13 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I suspect the reason Erskine played (and played so many minutes) had little to do with his blueline skills. If he was dressed for “insurance” while we determine the proper solution for our lack of an enforcer, I’m OK with that.
If we find a solution that does not involve signing a new enforcer, I’m especially fine with that.
"Camaraderie, that's what the Washington Capitals are all about."
by CapitalCentre on Oct 7, 2009 1:24 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I think that sometimes we forget just how young and how little experience he has. Luckily, what seems to be most of his issues (rebound control, biting on fakes like Carle’s slap pass last night) and things that can be learned and improved over time. There’s no question he’s an amazing athlete, but technically he still needs a ton of work. He’s like a young quarterback with a huge arm that can’t read defenses or gets fooled by mixed coverages.
That being said, the organization has to be careful how they handle him, lest they destroy his confidence. The problem is, this is a team that wants/needs to win NOW, and I don’t think Varly fits into that, at least not yet.
Varly made me nervous the entire game last night. When he came out and Jose came in, I was no longer nervous.
Ron and Fez 11 to 3
by YvonLabresMoustache on Oct 7, 2009 12:56 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Actually, one thing I will compliment on Varly’s game was the fact that he seemed way less twitchy last night than he did against TOR. He still bit awfully early on a few shots, but he didn’t strike me as shaky as he did Saturday night.
by DrinkingPartner on Oct 7, 2009 12:59 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
He did look rather shaky on Saturday
Ron and Fez 11 to 3
by YvonLabresMoustache on Oct 7, 2009 12:59 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
He looked shaky in the third. In the first two periods, he was fantastic. I think there’s a real maturity issue going on here and as Bruce’s quote indicated, it’s probably more mental than physical. The hardest skill for a young goalie to develop is the ability to shake off a bad goal. Varly seems to keep thinking about the last goal and that’s probably why he’s not fully prepared for the next one. This is where the goalie coach and a veteran partner can really help.
by b.orr4 on Oct 7, 2009 1:26 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Old timers, correct me on this if I’m mistaken but this sounds EXACTLY like how Kolzig was talked about when he first took over the reins after the Carey debacle. Too emotional (angry) after a goal, and oftentimes that ended up costing them another shortly thereafter. 18 seconds, usually…
Or is my senility come full circle?
"I am... *grins* ... 'Nobody' "
- Odysseus
by war_capitals on Oct 7, 2009 2:50 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
We have to look at this like the regular season, knowing that we’re really not in jeopardy of missing the playoffs. If we’re trying to win every game, we would’ve started Theodore yesterday, and we will again tomorrow. If we’re trying to find out how Varlamov handles the pressure/find out what we need to work with him on/help him develop, all with what is still a good chance of winning the game, putting him in situations like this makes sense.
I don’t know how Neuvirth fits into this though.
by sixsevenfiftysix on Oct 7, 2009 12:58 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
On one hand, it's easy to fix...
It’s hard to make saves with the glove while you’re moving. Varly is very rarely quiet in net. Neuvy’s the 180-degree opposite: He’s very quiet. He has a superb glove.
Of course, the strength of Varly’s game is his athleticism….
by TylerG on Oct 7, 2009 1:05 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
I don’t think Varly was moving when he biffed the glove save before Richards’ hattrick goal (or at least he shouldn’t have been moving around).
Of all our iniquities ignorance may be the worst
by Killer_Carlson on Oct 7, 2009 6:34 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
And he wasn’t really moving on the Eaton goal. And he was only slightly moving on the Fedotenko goal.
If you're after gettin' the honey, then you don't go killin' all them bees.
by Fehr and Balanced on Oct 7, 2009 8:33 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
But Eaton’s a Top-Four guy. Tough to stop shots from those types.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
by J.P. on Oct 7, 2009 8:56 PM EDT up reply actions 2 recs
Eaton’s waaay better than any Caps d-man, for that matter. Beware the defensive awesomeness of Eaton!
by RedBirdie on Oct 7, 2009 9:04 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Btw, when I posted this, I felt it lacked something that I couldn’t put my finger on, but I have since figured it out: needs more self-indulgent idiocy.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
by J.P. on Oct 7, 2009 1:12 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
I’d expect more from a fellow elite commenter.
"Good crowd out there tonight, boys, let's really try to win this one."
by Bald Pollack on Oct 7, 2009 1:30 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
“Elitist” apparently is a euphemism for “avatatared.”
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
by J.P. on Oct 7, 2009 1:31 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Wasn’t Kevin Bacon in that movie?
"Good crowd out there tonight, boys, let's really try to win this one."
by Bald Pollack on Oct 7, 2009 1:32 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
That’s funny, but I still don’t get it?
"You're gonna eat that g**d**n Koho, three!"
by fat_daddyo on Oct 7, 2009 1:23 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
check out this morning’s caps clips re: puck daddy commentor showing some extra love for jp
by mechanicsville on Oct 7, 2009 1:24 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Not just me – all y’all!
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
by J.P. on Oct 7, 2009 1:26 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
You are the only one named specifically my friend, with all this power (and ego) comes intelligent critiques. Better get used to it.
by Sct112 on Oct 7, 2009 1:28 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
My bad. There’s more than enough self-indulgent idiocy to go around. BTW, living perilously close to the capital of the confederacy, your “all y’all” is a tad scary. couple it with a good ol’ fashioned rebel yell and i’ll fee right at home.
by mechanicsville on Oct 7, 2009 1:29 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Aha. We’re elitists and you’re a self indulgent idiot. Thanks for flocking us around!
Very nice use of the Southern second-person plural, by the way.
"You're gonna eat that g**d**n Koho, three!"
by fat_daddyo on Oct 7, 2009 1:29 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I'm so elitist. . .
. . . that I disdain myself.
I'm trying to work out a deal with a club in Europe
by D'ohboy on Oct 7, 2009 1:33 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
That deserves a rec’d, but being an elitist snob, I would never lower myself to such a crass public display.
by b.orr4 on Oct 7, 2009 1:43 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
As an elitist myself, I have come to realize that when someone refers to someone as being “elitist,” it’s just shorthand for “much smarter than I am.” Embrace the title.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
by J.P. on Oct 7, 2009 1:33 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Have you noted the price of Arugula lately?! Simply ghastly!
by mechanicsville on Oct 7, 2009 1:38 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
You should have said, “My personal shopper tells me that the price of arugala has gone through the roof!”
But then, some smartass would post, “You solicit opinions from the hired help?”
by bigeugene on Oct 7, 2009 2:16 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
“I don’t solicit opinion from the hired help, but they insist on giving it to me. [sigh] It’s so very difficult to find proper help these days.”
by RedBirdie on Oct 7, 2009 2:24 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
You’re right, but it’s ok. I’m more familiar with being outwitted than I’d like to admit.
by mechanicsville on Oct 7, 2009 4:10 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Embrace the title.
I am a man of the people. As long as “the people” know their place and stay in it, i.e., damned well away from me.
"You're gonna eat that g**d**n Koho, three!"
by fat_daddyo on Oct 7, 2009 1:44 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
3 games
Let’s get these goalies 10 starts a piece before making assessments. I’ve often defended Varly but if he is looking shaky after 10 starts, then yes, we should try something different.
Russian Machine Never Breaks
by macvechkin on Oct 7, 2009 1:14 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
This makes sense. I noted “near-term” earlier in the thread, and 10 starts sounds like a good working sample.
by mechanicsville on Oct 7, 2009 1:26 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
And it needs to be the “right” 10 games. Throwing him in against Philly for their home opener is not a good spot for a rookie. Same thing with sending him to play in the Joe against Detroit. NJ, Nashville, the Islanders, those are better tests.
by b.orr4 on Oct 7, 2009 1:28 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
This sure looks like a thoughtful approach. And one geared favorably toward developing a supremely talented, but still very raw, goaltender.
by mechanicsville on Oct 7, 2009 1:37 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Why throw him out against the weak? What does that tell us? The Caps are going to dominate weak teams regardless of how the goalie plays. After some of the situations Varlamov got thrown in last season I don’t think any regular season game could be too much for him.
If you're after gettin' the honey, then you don't go killin' all them bees.
by Fehr and Balanced on Oct 7, 2009 2:21 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
There really aren’t any weak opponents any more, just less strong. Case in point, the Isles just took the Penguins to a shootout. Like it or not, Varly just isn’t mentally tough enough yet and like a young pitcher, he needs to build his confidence. Varlamov should never have been put in against Philly and now they have to get this kid back on track mentally as well as technically.
by b.orr4 on Oct 7, 2009 2:47 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I know a good place where he can go work on his confidence…
If you're after gettin' the honey, then you don't go killin' all them bees.
by Fehr and Balanced on Oct 7, 2009 2:56 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I love the smell of chocolate in the morning.
by b.orr4 on Oct 7, 2009 3:00 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
But wouldn’t getting shipped to Hershey so quickly (I’d hazard to say prematurely) run directly counter to building his confidence?
by mechanicsville on Oct 7, 2009 4:12 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Probably. But if Varlamov doesn’t get his head right by the time Neuvirth is healthy and in game shape then it’s not fair to Neuvirth to keep him stashed in HER for the sake of Varlamov’s confidence.
If you're after gettin' the honey, then you don't go killin' all them bees.
by Fehr and Balanced on Oct 7, 2009 4:30 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Fair point. I’m just of a mind that it’s still early to be considering moving him down. Granted, a few more efforts like the last two will change my mind. I’ll reiterate b.orr’s idea of 10 starts giving Varly ample opportunity to show the Caps whether he can be the answer in goal this year (at least as a 1A).
by mechanicsville on Oct 7, 2009 4:49 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
This is a kid who many people are counting on to be the goalie that carry’s the Caps in the playoffs, so he should be able to handle a regular season game in Philly. If that is too much pressure for him then he has bigger problems than his glove hand.
Of all our iniquities ignorance may be the worst
by Killer_Carlson on Oct 7, 2009 6:46 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
If we ran that recent “name the two goaltenders” poll again from scratch today I wonder what it would look like…
by Icebat on Oct 7, 2009 1:29 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
can we do a presidential poll as well? ;-)
Russian Machine Never Breaks
by macvechkin on Oct 7, 2009 1:30 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
LOL. Had hte same thought this monring. I think I either voted or put in the comments Theo + Neuvy at the time, but I can’t swear to it.
"You're gonna eat that g**d**n Koho, three!"
by fat_daddyo on Oct 7, 2009 1:31 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I voted Theo and Neuvy if I remember correctly too. I just think we need the calmer goalie, and I think Neuvy is that.
"And next year it will be ours."
by Ovechwin on Oct 7, 2009 1:40 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Haven’t heard much from the Varly/Neuvy lobby lately…
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
by J.P. on Oct 7, 2009 1:45 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
The Holtby lobby is biding its time and working on its game before surprising everyone with its catlike quickness and whip-smart intellect.
Or it’s just not trying to think about it now.
"Good crowd out there tonight, boys, let's really try to win this one."
by Bald Pollack on Oct 7, 2009 1:48 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
The Holtby Lobby is in a good spot. For the meantime he’s No. 1 in HER and he’s not really under any pressure to do anything.
If you're after gettin' the honey, then you don't go killin' all them bees.
by Fehr and Balanced on Oct 7, 2009 2:53 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
It’s only been three games. I’m a tandem proponent, and I’m going to give 60 and 40 a few more starts before I start clamoring.
"Camaraderie, that's what the Washington Capitals are all about."
by CapitalCentre on Oct 7, 2009 1:49 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I voted Varly/Neuvy but obviously Varlamov is getting no love. I still think the team could survive without Theo but it’s nice to have him considering the injury to and glove hand of the two rookies.
If you're after gettin' the honey, then you don't go killin' all them bees.
by Fehr and Balanced on Oct 7, 2009 2:22 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Mostly unrelated, Brent “$500k” Johnson will start for the Pens tonight.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
by J.P. on Oct 7, 2009 2:24 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
He might play as well (hasn’t yet).
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
by J.P. on Oct 7, 2009 2:53 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
And Manny Fernandez is unsigned.
If you're after gettin' the honey, then you don't go killin' all them bees.
by Fehr and Balanced on Oct 7, 2009 2:54 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Don’t look now, but it looks like Tyler Sloan might see a forward shift before Michael Nylander.
via Tarik and Corey’s little tweets.
Maybe play with an edge, be a little more physical -- maybe be more of a prick out there.
by jordanDC on Oct 7, 2009 1:37 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Caps Clips for off-topic news, friend.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
by J.P. on Oct 7, 2009 1:39 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
He’s not your friend, pal.
Russian Machine Never Breaks
by macvechkin on Oct 7, 2009 1:41 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
He’s not your buddy, guy!
"And next year it will be ours."
by Ovechwin on Oct 7, 2009 1:47 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Who are you calling guy, buddy!
One guy just drove his semi as a float. I guess semis are cool.
by zephyr on Oct 7, 2009 1:48 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
We don’t take kindly to people who love Buddy Guy in here!
by DrinkingPartner on Oct 7, 2009 2:03 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
THEYTOOKYERJOB!!!
I'm trying to work out a deal with a club in Europe
by D'ohboy on Oct 7, 2009 2:10 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Damn goobacks.
If you're after gettin' the honey, then you don't go killin' all them bees.
by Fehr and Balanced on Oct 7, 2009 2:54 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
At least I have an avatar?
Maybe play with an edge, be a little more physical -- maybe be more of a prick out there.
by jordanDC on Oct 7, 2009 1:41 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
And a damn fine one at that.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
by J.P. on Oct 7, 2009 1:46 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Well played.
"Let the rest be scared of us." - Sasha Semin
by Scott in Shaw on Oct 7, 2009 4:27 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Maybe they should get someone who knows how to use one of these to work with Varlamov…
If you've read this far...seek help.
by ThePeerless on Oct 7, 2009 2:17 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
But does J.T. Snow speak Russian? That, apparently, is a pretty important factor in selecting a goaltending coach.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
by J.P. on Oct 7, 2009 2:21 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
Of course, when all else fails, blame the equipment.
by b.orr4 on Oct 7, 2009 2:48 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
It’s a poor craftsman who blames his tools, says I.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
by J.P. on Oct 7, 2009 2:54 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Unless you’re a paraplegic carpenter with demon-possessed robot arms.
2009-2010 Colorado Avalanche: Nothing Inspirational Comes to Mind
by Mike @ MHH on Oct 7, 2009 3:59 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
How Canadian of you to quote The Tragically Hip.
“Philadelphia for Christ and Christ for
Philadelphia.”
And it’s topical.
tictactoehockey.blogspot.com
myunjustifiedego.blogspot.com
by turnituptoeleven on Oct 7, 2009 4:51 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
So are most ointments.
I need 100% of you guys to give 110% 100% of the time.
by capsfan4life on Oct 7, 2009 6:31 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
“Victory came and went on winged elephants”
Same tune. Similarly topical.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
by J.P. on Oct 7, 2009 7:03 PM EDT up reply actions 0 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.
