Thursday Caps Clips: Neuvirth To Get a Start?
by J.P. on Nov 19, 2009 6:42 AM EST
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Your savory breakfast links:
- In case you missed it in the overnight, Tuvan published a translation of interviews with Alex Ovechkin and Semyon Varlamov following the Rangers game.
- On the injury/other front, Jose Theodore might not be available this weekend (which would likely get Michal Neuvirth a start), Alexander Semin is also questionable for the two games and Quintin Laing is out up to six weeks with a broken jaw. Milan Jurcina is getting better, Boyd Gordon is not, and Shaone Morrisonn is day-to-day with an upper-body injury. I think that's everyone. [Washington Post, others]
- The Bears have recalled Michael Dubuc from South Carolina and another forward from Kalamazoo of the ECHL. A sign of a recall (or two) from Hershey to D.C. for the weekend? [Patriot-News, @timleone)]
- As mentioned above, Laing will be out up to six weeks with a broken jaw (but at least he got Fark'd for his efforts). Here's a look at part of what the next few weeks will look like for Q. [Peerless]
- AO misses two weeks, still has nearly the most clutch goals in hockey this season. [The Hockey News]
- As far as undersized pivots who have been pleasant surprises for the Caps this fall, Brendan Morrison has to be in the top two. [Washington Times]
- Matt Bradley is probably the toughest environmentalist around... [National Geographic]
- ... and his legend grows. [Washington Times]
- Is Brooks Laich the most underrated player in the League? [Bangin Panger]
- Pierre LeBrun offers some (solicited) praise for Nicklas Backstrom. [ESPN]
- Celebrating Bruce Boudreau's 100th win. [Rock The Red.net]
- Speaking of Gabby, how do you name the League's top-nine coaches on the season so far and not have him on that list? [ESPN]
- Apropos of nothing, Varly's win on Tuesday night pushed him into sole possession of 22nd in franchise history in wins, breaking a tie with Cristobal Huet and Craig Billington. He could be in the top-14 by New Year's and would need 22 more to be in the top-10 by season's end.
- Since you've no doubt been wondering, Sergei Fedorov is currently fourth on his KHL team in scoring with four goals and nine assists in 23 games (and a team-best plus-ten rating) and Viktor Kozlov is tied for fifth on his team with five goals and ten assists in 25 games. And I hear it's really, really great over there and everyone's nice and it rains gumdrops (just in case Michael Nylander's reading).
- There have gotta be scores of Canadian kids growing up and patterning their game after Alex Ovechkin (recall that kids like to rebel against their parents), but probably not as many Russian kids emulating Mike Green. Here's one. [NHL.com]
- The Sabres have named former Cap Grant Ledyard Director of Youth Hockey Development. [Sabres]
- Not directly Caps-related (though we all know the link), a nice story about a kid and one of his hockey coaches. [Autism Speaks via @CapsInPictures]
- Finally, happy birthday to a couple of former Caps and Sabres - Ledyard turns 48 and Dean Melanson turns 36.
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It doesn't surprise me that Boudreau isn't on the shortlist for best coaches....
The best coach category is always reserved for the coaches of surprise teams and teams that overcome some sort of adversity. The Caps are doing exactly what they were expected to do.
Should Boudreau be on there? Absolutely. Even though everyone and Dan Steinberg’s mom knew the Caps would be good this year, it is easy for a team to crumble under the weight of expectations. The Caps have higher expectations this year than any point in their history, and I think Boudreau deserves credit for keeping the team focused.
I also think Dan Bylsma deserves a little credit for helping to keep the Penguins above water while they went (and still are going) through a ridiculous string of injuries…..but I’m also a homer.
I don’t disagree. But if Babcock and McLellan are on there, Bruce should be too.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
Yep, that’s why I said Boudreau should be on there.
In Babcock’s case, the Wings did lose a decent amount of firepower since last year, yet they continue to roll along.
Realistically, you could make the case for about 15 coaches right now. It’s too early. Boudreau will probably be there by year-end.
I wouldn’t read too much into those awards. I’m not sure how Pronger is the Norris Trophy winner at the quarter-mark. With him playing in a big market like Philly, it looks like it will be his to lose this year, no matter how anyone else plays.
Yep. ESPN quarter-pole awards = irrelevant for two reasons: “ESPN” and “quarter-pole.”
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
Also “awards.” There’s only one award that really matters.
"If you're gonna die after 24, might as well jump out at 23:59, no?"
by Laich It Or Lump It on Nov 19, 2009 8:11 AM EST up reply actions
That’s not really an award, though, as ultimately no one but the eventual recipient decides who receives it.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
Yea, but…. c’mon. I just wanted to make fun of ESPN. It’s early.
"If you're gonna die after 24, might as well jump out at 23:59, no?"
by Laich It Or Lump It on Nov 19, 2009 8:18 AM EST up reply actions
The ESPN quarter-pole awards...discuss
...from these honored dead we take increased devotion to that cause for which they gave the last full measure of devotion.
by Gould Old Days on Nov 19, 2009 9:08 AM EST up reply actions
Nice use of the subject line.
"If you're gonna die after 24, might as well jump out at 23:59, no?"
by Laich It Or Lump It on Nov 19, 2009 9:11 AM EST up reply actions
Trying to do that with photos now, so folks can shrink them if they want
...from these honored dead we take increased devotion to that cause for which they gave the last full measure of devotion.
by Gould Old Days on Nov 19, 2009 9:14 AM EST up reply actions
Spread the word, brother. It’s a nice option to have, especially at work. It’s easier to be inconspicuous that way.
"If you're gonna die after 24, might as well jump out at 23:59, no?"
by Laich It Or Lump It on Nov 19, 2009 9:16 AM EST up reply actions
Along with Justin Timberlake’s affection.
"If you're gonna die after 24, might as well jump out at 23:59, no?"
by Laich It Or Lump It on Nov 19, 2009 8:19 AM EST up reply actions
Anyone know where we can find a rolling “man-games lost to injury” stat for the league? I’d bet the Caps are up pretty high — another reason Boudreau deserves accolades.
...from these honored dead we take increased devotion to that cause for which they gave the last full measure of devotion.
by Gould Old Days on Nov 19, 2009 9:06 AM EST up reply actions
I don’t know of such a place, but I know some teams like Edmonton and Vancouver (and probably Pitt) have been hit harder than the Caps.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
Hmm. This sounds like an idea for a FanPost.
"If you're gonna die after 24, might as well jump out at 23:59, no?"
by Laich It Or Lump It on Nov 19, 2009 9:17 AM EST up reply actions
Every team has gotten hit. I saw a stat last week that 18% of all NHLers were injured (at that point in time). That is unreal.
I’m obviously biased, but the Pens are tough to beat. Top Scorer, PP quarterback, 5 out of 6 NHL d-men, and strong role players were all injured at the same time….that’s pretty rough.
Wow. That’s quite a gap between the Canucks (109) and the Lightning (7).
"If you're gonna die after 24, might as well jump out at 23:59, no?"
by Laich It Or Lump It on Nov 19, 2009 9:26 AM EST up reply actions
Tampa is only 22nd in the league in wins despite losing virtually no games to injury.
“Sell!”
...from these honored dead we take increased devotion to that cause for which they gave the last full measure of devotion.
by Gould Old Days on Nov 19, 2009 9:27 AM EST up reply actions
109 man-games lost to injury… the Nucks have only played 21 actual games. That’s ridiculous.
"If you're gonna die after 24, might as well jump out at 23:59, no?"
by Laich It Or Lump It on Nov 19, 2009 9:30 AM EST up reply actions
There you go. Nice. I saw Seth asking about it on Twitter – glad he found the data and put it out there for everyone.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
The Caps’ stat of 64 man-games missed is wrong – because Ovi was out for six games and as everyone knows the Caps are a one-man team.
The true number is 58 + (6 × 23) = 196
SO FЯIENDS, IS BATTLE NOW.
by EmilyB on Nov 19, 2009 10:16 AM EST up reply actions 9 recs
Nice.
"If you're gonna die after 24, might as well jump out at 23:59, no?"
by Laich It Or Lump It on Nov 19, 2009 10:20 AM EST up reply actions
As of last Friday’s game against Minnesota, the Caps had lost 54 man-games to injury (according to the game notes).
If you've read this far...seek help.
by ThePeerless on Nov 19, 2009 10:54 AM EST up reply actions
The story on Zaytsev is pretty cool stuff. I’ll keep an eye out on him.
Familiar Rapports: Bald Pollack, F&B, Gould Old Days.
Lobbies: Osala, Perreault, Erskine, Pothier, Neuvirth, Flash.
Fan of: Mean Lars Backstrom, Line Mashing, Cake.
Many will debate what’s better for European-born prospects — staying in their home national league, where they can play against men, or coming to North America and getting used to playing on the smaller ice surface. The best answer the scouts can come up with is that each prospect needs to make the decision they feel is best for them.
While I would imagine that moving away from home to try to learn a craft is a very personal dicision, I would think it is a little more cut and dried than that. Of course, it is difficult and the player would have to have a certain amount of maturity to even think about doing it.
However, wouldn’t it make a lot of sense for offensive players to make the move to North America to learn how to play on smaller rinks if that is where they want to play? It would seem to me that tighter space to operate would most affect wingers and centers.
Defensemen on the other hand, I wouldn’t think the rink size would make as much difference. If you can learn to be a top defender with lots of open ice, you should be even better when you get to a situation where your opponent doesn’t have as much room to move. Right?
by HateOffSeason on Nov 19, 2009 8:48 AM EST up reply actions
I’m really not sure. I am of the opinion that size of rink definitely affects you on both sides of the puck.
Familiar Rapports: Bald Pollack, F&B, Gould Old Days.
Lobbies: Osala, Perreault, Erskine, Pothier, Neuvirth, Flash.
Fan of: Mean Lars Backstrom, Line Mashing, Cake.
by Whiter Mage on Nov 19, 2009 9:11 AM EST up reply actions 1 recs
This.
And the goalies as well. Changes the angles and the way offenses attack.
If consequences dictate the course of action, then it doesn't matter what's right, it's only wrong if you get caught. If consequences dictate the course of action, then I should play God...
Defending is way more difficult on the big ice. Playing out at Reston took some getting used too. Its a lot tougher to use the 7th defender when it isn’t where you expect it to be.
"I think the relentless negative coverage in The Washington Post is a real difference from previous years," Redskins general counsel David Donovan said. "But in terms of the way our actual fans are behaving, we don't see any difference."
Defending is more difficult for sure, and it’s easier to get stuck in the corner and not be able to recover. But it’s also easier for sissies like Ales Hemsky to play on the perimeter and slow the game down and avoid contact. I like the tighter space because it makes the game go faster and it’s harder to avoid contact.
If consequences dictate the course of action, then it doesn't matter what's right, it's only wrong if you get caught. If consequences dictate the course of action, then I should play God...
It really is like two different sports at times the big ice give you so much more time to make decisions, on a nhl rink players are coming at you so much faster. I can’t say that I see any trends that forwards are mote inclined to come to North America. Goaltenders are a completely different story though, it feels like in all interviews with young promising goalies they say I want to play in N-A as fast as possible to get a better chance to get to the nhl. And they also seem to understand that a season or two in ahl is necessary to make it as a golie in the nhl.
Is it bad if I actually prefer the international sized rink to the NHL one?
Familiar Rapports: Bald Pollack, F&B, Gould Old Days.
Lobbies: Osala, Perreault, Erskine, Pothier, Neuvirth, Flash.
Fan of: Mean Lars Backstrom, Line Mashing, Cake.
I find it easier to see a wider ice surface. Also, I associate that rink with a lot of the rules with it (no touch icing, other things) that I wouldn’t mind seeing in the NHL some day (Pat Peake made me a firm believer).
Familiar Rapports: Bald Pollack, F&B, Gould Old Days.
Lobbies: Osala, Perreault, Erskine, Pothier, Neuvirth, Flash.
Fan of: Mean Lars Backstrom, Line Mashing, Cake.
The biggest boon (in my mind) would be officiating. If we’re all on the bigger sheet, I think it forces NHL refs to call games closer to the IIHF and subject them to more independent evaluation.
"I'm just doing karate and trying to get females pregnant."
by Bald Pollack on Nov 19, 2009 10:11 AM EST up reply actions
Instead of whatever it is that’s done now for them, have the IIHF score/judge refs’ performances over the NHL, SEL, etc., and help determine (with each league’s buy-in, of course), whom they should have officiating larger league tournaments, or international ones like the Olympics. Additionally, perhaps putting out communications about controversial calls which illuminate why something was/wasn’t called, and under what rule.
Basically similar to what US Soccer does with their refs (and presumably what other international leagues do, with the international body doing the picking for who gets the prime gigs).
"I'm just doing karate and trying to get females pregnant."
by Bald Pollack on Nov 19, 2009 10:27 AM EST up reply actions
Is that like what they did for the Ireland/France match? Sounds promising :)
"I think the relentless negative coverage in The Washington Post is a real difference from previous years," Redskins general counsel David Donovan said. "But in terms of the way our actual fans are behaving, we don't see any difference."
I don’t know if there are statistics that prove that there is more injuries on a nhl seized ice and if it does how the different icing rules and such affect it.
I just think that it’s funnier to watch a nhl game then a SEL. The other nigh I watched Peter Forsbergs comeback with Modo and he played almost the entire game without delivering or receiving a tackle that is just wrong and I don’t think that would happen on a smaller ice surface.
I bet “Circles” would be a big fan…
Ron and Fez 11 to 3
by YvonLabresMoustache on Nov 19, 2009 9:56 AM EST up reply actions
The larger ice does slow the game down and makes it less physical. Whether that is good or bad is personal preference. I think it’s bad.
If consequences dictate the course of action, then it doesn't matter what's right, it's only wrong if you get caught. If consequences dictate the course of action, then I should play God...
Dunno. Saw the doctor last week and I’m still not that close. I’m walking and doing normal things but I still can’t touch my toes and still have periodic pain in my leg. When the pain goes away I’m allowed to start doing light exercise and if my back holds up with that I can start skating again. I’m week to week.
If consequences dictate the course of action, then it doesn't matter what's right, it's only wrong if you get caught. If consequences dictate the course of action, then I should play God...
I’m a face off beast but I take my PIMs in the first two periods.
If consequences dictate the course of action, then it doesn't matter what's right, it's only wrong if you get caught. If consequences dictate the course of action, then I should play God...
Good on Ledyard for the promotion.
And if I can vent on a NHR topic for a second, Thierry Henry is a piece of shite. That is all.
"I'm just doing karate and trying to get females pregnant."
FIFA got the French in the World Cup….that’s all they wanted…
much like Bettman giving Crosby the Cup ;)
by Link_Gaetz on Nov 19, 2009 7:49 AM EST up reply actions 1 recs
Not an Irish fan, but good lord, did they get shafted.
Familiar Rapports: Bald Pollack, F&B, Gould Old Days.
Lobbies: Osala, Perreault, Erskine, Pothier, Neuvirth, Flash.
Fan of: Mean Lars Backstrom, Line Mashing, Cake.
Reminds me of that time that Jordana got kicked off Project Runway even though the judges said they thought that her dress was better than Althea’s, just because Athea is a big beautiful blonde.
...from these honored dead we take increased devotion to that cause for which they gave the last full measure of devotion.
by Gould Old Days on Nov 19, 2009 10:27 AM EST up reply actions
But Althea has “hockey teeth.”
"Let the rest be scared of us." - Emo Bunny Sasha Semin
by Scott in Shaw on Nov 19, 2009 11:32 AM EST up reply actions
how did we end up discussing PR? (which I gave up on halfway through the season. SOOOOOO disappointing)
I don’t know, G.O.D. started it. But yeah, worst season ever. I loved Drew’s take on it in Deadspin (around the 6th question in the mailbag).
"Let the rest be scared of us." - Emo Bunny Sasha Semin
by Scott in Shaw on Nov 19, 2009 11:54 AM EST up reply actions
I was enjoying the juxtaposition of Ireland getting royally screwed on the world’s biggest sporting stage and one of the most frivolous reality shows on TV…
...from these honored dead we take increased devotion to that cause for which they gave the last full measure of devotion.
by Gould Old Days on Nov 19, 2009 12:07 PM EST up reply actions
His take on it consisted of more “I don’t like these finalist because they’re not hot enough for me!” than anything else.
And Christopher should have been kicked out the first day? Didn’t he win the first (or second) challenge?
Yeah, ironically, Chris won the first week. But I more meant that I agreed with Drew’s opinion that the challenges this year sucked — no grocery store challenge or make a dress out of spare car parts, etc. All Mood, all the time.
"Let the rest be scared of us." - Emo Bunny Sasha Semin
by Scott in Shaw on Nov 19, 2009 4:08 PM EST up reply actions
As a whole too many tie-ins. There were at least two challenges that were essentially “be a designer for this company for 48 hours”. Lame.
Agreed. Also, #needsmoreKors.
"Let the rest be scared of us." - Emo Bunny Sasha Semin
by Scott in Shaw on Nov 19, 2009 4:49 PM EST up reply actions
This may be the all-time threadjack I’m most proud of…
...from these honored dead we take increased devotion to that cause for which they gave the last full measure of devotion.
by Gould Old Days on Nov 19, 2009 6:23 PM EST up reply actions
As well it should be.
"Let the rest be scared of us." - Emo Bunny Sasha Semin
by Scott in Shaw on Nov 20, 2009 2:46 PM EST up reply actions
Christopher was pretty top notch most of the way, but he hit some stumbles, mostly because he’d never had any formal training.
Familiar Rapports: Bald Pollack, F&B, Gould Old Days.
Lobbies: Osala, Perreault, Erskine, Pothier, Neuvirth, Flash.
Fan of: Mean Lars Backstrom, Line Mashing, Cake.
What I liked about Christopher was that he didn’t have training and didn’t have his own line or store and work for a top designer. With that said, he should have left ages ago. Definitely before Niklas.
I hated Jeffrey a few seasons ago because he had already designed for celebrities. Every year the designers resumes are insane! I feel bad for the kids just starting out. I thought that was what the show was all about? Find the next top designer, not talented people already designing under the name “Ralph Lauren”
Side note, one of my BFFs and roommate in college was a model on last season’s PR. She gave me all the great behind the scenes scoop. Models of the Runway does not even scratch the surface.
FLAGGED!!!!
"I think the relentless negative coverage in The Washington Post is a real difference from previous years," Redskins general counsel David Donovan said. "But in terms of the way our actual fans are behaving, we don't see any difference."
by Sct112 on Nov 19, 2009 3:47 PM EST up reply actions 1 recs
Yeah, that was a load of shit. But, then again, that judging was more about the entire season too. Also, Irina’s a bitch.
Familiar Rapports: Bald Pollack, F&B, Gould Old Days.
Lobbies: Osala, Perreault, Erskine, Pothier, Neuvirth, Flash.
Fan of: Mean Lars Backstrom, Line Mashing, Cake.
that judging was more about the entire season too.
I wish at the end of Game 7 this year, the league had acknowledged that Pittsburgh had many more goals in that one game, but that the Caps had had a better season overall so they would continue on to the Conference Finals.
...from these honored dead we take increased devotion to that cause for which they gave the last full measure of devotion.
by Gould Old Days on Nov 19, 2009 9:46 PM EST up reply actions
By the way, no spoilers here please. Let’s give it a few days for those who recorded it.
...from these honored dead we take increased devotion to that cause for which they gave the last full measure of devotion.
by Gould Old Days on Nov 19, 2009 11:30 PM EST up reply actions
Maybe I still have some lingering feelings towards Henry being a Gunners fan but the one to blame here is the referee and the linesman how could they possibly miss that? I’m not proud to be Swedish today that’s for sure (the referee is from Sweden).
I’m still bitter that Sweden missed out on South Africa and when Slovenia (Good for Anze) of all countries make it, it’s even worse at least we didn’t got robbed just underperformed.
Isn’t Ibrahimovic quitting international play too? Tough breaks to be sure, but I’m positive you’ll get back soon enough (or do what the English are doing and bring in an aging midfielder playing in MLS to push you over the hump).
"I'm just doing karate and trying to get females pregnant."
by Bald Pollack on Nov 19, 2009 11:00 AM EST up reply actions
Isn’t Ibrahimovic quitting international play too? Tough breaks to be sure, but I’m positive you’ll get back soon enough (or do what the English are doing and bring in an aging midfielder playing in MLS to push you over the hump).
"I'm just doing karate and trying to get females pregnant."
by Bald Pollack on Nov 19, 2009 11:02 AM EST up reply actions
Isn’t Ibrahimovic quitting international play too? Tough breaks to be sure, but I’m positive you’ll get back soon enough (or do what the English are doing and bring in an aging midfielder playing in MLS to push you over the hump).
"I'm just doing karate and trying to get females pregnant."
by Bald Pollack on Nov 19, 2009 11:02 AM EST up reply actions
I’m hoping that Zlatan will change his mind again and that we don’t need to take Ljungberg back. Sweden do have a new head coach now I guess we should give him some time to fix things.
You never know, Hiddink may get forced out of the Russia job now that he’s out; he’d certainly get them in good shape.
"I'm just doing karate and trying to get females pregnant."
by Bald Pollack on Nov 19, 2009 11:47 AM EST up reply actions
The LeBrun article...
I got as far as the first question “What is up with the lack of respect the Detroit Red Wings get?” before I clicked off because I would have put my fist through the monitor.
Red Wings fans are the WORST.
Ron and Fez 11 to 3
by YvonLabresMoustache on Nov 19, 2009 8:21 AM EST reply actions
Might not have to deal with them much longer.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
I don’t think that’s too much of a danger. No one lives in the city any longer anyway, they’re all coming in from the suburbs. If they needed a new building, I would say there’s some danger.
Ron and Fez 11 to 3
by YvonLabresMoustache on Nov 19, 2009 8:34 AM EST up reply actions
To be fair, large parts of Detroit have been “post-apocalyptic” since the late 60s, far before this latest financial crisis. Finding an urban wasteland there is certainly not a new story. There are also some fantastic parts of the city, transformed and revitalized through the 1990s. That said, if the income of the area can’t continue to support a franchise like the Wings, it will be tragic.
Fight, you time-wasting figure skaters!
The NHL will float the Red Wings for YEARS before they ever let them fold or move.
...from these honored dead we take increased devotion to that cause for which they gave the last full measure of devotion.
by Gould Old Days on Nov 19, 2009 9:12 AM EST up reply actions
I think the Ilitches would have to be dead for them to fold or move, anyway. Mike Ilitch keeps the Tigers alive, too.
Fight, you time-wasting figure skaters!
Mike Ilitch used to use all of his profits from the Tigers and sink it into the Red Wings. That is why the Tigers sucked for so long, and then the Wings were able to load up on expensive talent. Did they develop their own? Sure. But it still costs money to keep them.
Then, the NHL got a salary-cap, and Ilitch could no longer throw all his money at the Wings. Ever notice how the NHL Salary Cap and the rise of the Detroit Tigers happened at the exact same time? Now the Tigers have a high payroll….
There is no one worse than an entitled Wings fan….except any kind of Flyers fan
The Tigers are good because they’re all scared of Jim Leyland. He’s a scary scary man.
The Tigers were already drafting and developing current talent prior to the NHL salary cap.
Y’all have seen my comments about Detroit before and know how I feel about the twice-annual visit to the City That Prosperity Forgot. But there is just no way in hell that the NHL and MLB would even consider contracting those franchises (I’m less sure about the Pistons because of where they play, and the Lions, well……..). Detroit and how it got that way is far more complex of a problem then I want to go into, certainly far more complex than the glossing over OFB gave it, and the article they linked to isn’t particularly deep. Its a city that’s depressing for a host of reasons, but a little bit of me retains hope that one day it will claws its way out of its hellhole.
Just wanted to get that off my chest.
Yeah, but at least our swingman costs more than their abandoned stadium.
"I'm just doing karate and trying to get females pregnant."
by Bald Pollack on Nov 19, 2009 8:28 AM EST up reply actions
Only $583,000 to own the site of the legendary Wrestlemania III? What a bargain.
"If you're gonna die after 24, might as well jump out at 23:59, no?"
by Laich It Or Lump It on Nov 19, 2009 8:39 AM EST up reply actions
You call it a bargain? The best you ever had?
Ron and Fez 11 to 3
by YvonLabresMoustache on Nov 19, 2009 8:46 AM EST up reply actions
Yup. The best I’ve ever haaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaad.
"If you're gonna die after 24, might as well jump out at 23:59, no?"
by Laich It Or Lump It on Nov 19, 2009 8:47 AM EST up reply actions
Amazing, isn’t it? I mean, I bet I could pick out no more than four Rink Rats who could have pulled that kind of coin together…. crap. What a missed opportunity – we could’ve all chipped in and moved there and started a commune.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
What a missed opportunity – we could’ve all chipped in and moved Nylander thereand started a commune.
"I'm just doing karate and trying to get females pregnant."
by Bald Pollack on Nov 19, 2009 8:43 AM EST up reply actions
A dark, cold, empty rink, and one man alone… skating endless circles.
They call him Nylander.
by mercurialwinger on Nov 19, 2009 9:40 AM EST up reply actions 1 recs
But he’s driving and striving and hugging the turns,
And thinking of someone for whom he still burns.
...from these honored dead we take increased devotion to that cause for which they gave the last full measure of devotion.
by Gould Old Days on Nov 19, 2009 10:28 AM EST up reply actions 2 recs
Pontiac to DC is a pretty long drive to watch home games though. Season ticket holders would be boned.
"If you're gonna die after 24, might as well jump out at 23:59, no?"
by Laich It Or Lump It on Nov 19, 2009 8:43 AM EST up reply actions
It’s a neat old arena. I cheered there when I was in HS and saw Pink Floyd there once.
Fight, you time-wasting figure skaters!
I saw a Lions/Dolphins game there.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
Depending on what year that was, that could have been a pretty good game or a downright terrible game.
"If you're gonna die after 24, might as well jump out at 23:59, no?"
by Laich It Or Lump It on Nov 19, 2009 9:20 AM EST up reply actions
I’m going to go out on a limb and guess that Wayne Fontes was the Lions coach…
...from these honored dead we take increased devotion to that cause for which they gave the last full measure of devotion.
by Gould Old Days on Nov 19, 2009 9:30 AM EST up reply actions
I was thinking if it included Barry Sanders and Dan Marino, it could have been fairly interesting. I was all about Marino when I was younger.
"If you're gonna die after 24, might as well jump out at 23:59, no?"
by Laich It Or Lump It on Nov 19, 2009 9:33 AM EST up reply actions
Is it horrible of me to suggest that I’d rather Semin sat out Friday / Saturday? Not for any reasons of stupid penalties or anything like that, but for the same reason that I didn’t want Ovechkin coming back too early – let’s make sure we have everyone in April when it matters.
Our lives are this moment, the music, the dance ....
Fan Clubs: Sloan, Schultz
It’s not horrible, but I’m not sure on what you’re basing your preference, given that the team will be sure to be as careful with him as they need to be. In other words, if he’s 100% and there’s no chance of worsening it, he’ll be in, so why would you want him to sit out in that case? My money’s on him missing the weekend, though (hence the roster shuffle we’re seeing in HER).
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
My concern with Ovie was that he would say he was 100% when he wasn’t because he was bored. Not sure why, but I don’t have that same feeling with Semin.
"I think the relentless negative coverage in The Washington Post is a real difference from previous years," Redskins general counsel David Donovan said. "But in terms of the way our actual fans are behaving, we don't see any difference."
No, if he’s 100% and there’s no chance of worsening it, I’m fine with him being in, but this isn’t the first we’d heard of the wrist brace, so it sounds to me as if he’d been toughing it out while Ovi was out.
As long as they don’t rush him because of extra injuries, I’m good.
Our lives are this moment, the music, the dance ....
Fan Clubs: Sloan, Schultz
Amen. And, frankly, Bruce may not be in much of a rush to get him back in there.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
No, quite possibly not. He seems to be one of those players who needs to be at 100% to play his game and do it well. I wouldn’t rush either given recent games and that propensity.
Our lives are this moment, the music, the dance ....
Fan Clubs: Sloan, Schultz
Before recent injury:
Boudreau: Semin’s always the first out of the lineup when he’s hurt. Just once, just ONCE I want to see what happens if he toughs it out and plays throught he pain.
Now:
Boudreau: Well, that answered that question…
...from these honored dead we take increased devotion to that cause for which they gave the last full measure of devotion.
by Gould Old Days on Nov 19, 2009 9:31 AM EST up reply actions 2 recs
If Neuvirth gets a start, he’ll have a chance to move into a tie for 27th in goalie wins. Theo is already 8th and likely to move into 7th. Not sure if this is funny or depressing.
"No TV and no beer make Homer go something something."
I think it says a lot about Olie. I mean, for roughly a third of the team’s existence, they had one goalie and a workhorse at that.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
Further to that point, some quick math reveals that Kolzig has played in 25.9% of the regular season games the Caps have ever played. That’s a pretty huge number.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
Brodeur has played in 48.4% of the Devils’ regular season games since they moved to Jersey and 37.1% overall in franchise history.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
These stats can get misleading fast. I mean, Guy Hebert’s going to be up there as well still for the Ducks, but goalies who had long outstanding careers with Original Six teams won’t have those kind of numbers.
Familiar Rapports: Bald Pollack, F&B, Gould Old Days.
Lobbies: Osala, Perreault, Erskine, Pothier, Neuvirth, Flash.
Fan of: Mean Lars Backstrom, Line Mashing, Cake.
I’m not sure the stats are misleading at all, as I’m not trying to lead anyone with them – just pointing out that Olie was a rock in goal for a decade, which is nearly a quarter of franchise history. That’s all.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
I more mean, those are going to differ from franchise to franchise. For us, obviously, it’s going to be simple to point to Kolzig and say “He was our best goaltender, period. He exemplified Capitals goaltending.” Meanwhile, teams like Montreal can’t do that, because Plante and Dryden and Roy all had extended careers that would look shorter. I guess I was more meaning I wouldn’t use that number against numbers from another franchise to try and say anything more than how much the guy means to the franchise he played for.
Familiar Rapports: Bald Pollack, F&B, Gould Old Days.
Lobbies: Osala, Perreault, Erskine, Pothier, Neuvirth, Flash.
Fan of: Mean Lars Backstrom, Line Mashing, Cake.
Agreed, though the Devils franchise has been around exactly as long as the Caps, so it’s fair to compare them (if you include KC and COL years).
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
Insert obligatory Hardy Astrom reference here…
Ron and Fez 11 to 3
by YvonLabresMoustache on Nov 19, 2009 9:57 AM EST up reply actions
I think it’s both Olie, and how mediocre the Caps goalies have been over the years (or, teams). At least in the beginning. Varlamov in his first season needed just four wins to match the single season win total for the Capitals in their inaugural season. The goalies we had, while not awful, weren’t exactly the best, either, and at least when I started watching, Beaupre may have been the goalie, but I remember seeing Hrivnak, Tabaracci, Dafoe, Billington, Ranford, and Carey just offhand from when I started watching (around 92) till Kolzig got the reins.
Familiar Rapports: Bald Pollack, F&B, Gould Old Days.
Lobbies: Osala, Perreault, Erskine, Pothier, Neuvirth, Flash.
Fan of: Mean Lars Backstrom, Line Mashing, Cake.
Don Beaupre also held the job for many years.
...from these honored dead we take increased devotion to that cause for which they gave the last full measure of devotion.
by Gould Old Days on Nov 19, 2009 9:33 AM EST up reply actions
Yep. In Caps’ G history, it’s Olie, Don and then everyone else (apologies to Jennings and Vezina winners, etc.).
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
Mike Liut FTW
Ron and Fez 11 to 3
by YvonLabresMoustache on Nov 19, 2009 9:36 AM EST up reply actions
My dad once met him during the first lockout in 94 and answered all his questions about it. Said Liut was one of the nicest people he’s ever come across.
Ron and Fez 11 to 3
by YvonLabresMoustache on Nov 19, 2009 9:42 AM EST up reply actions
When I got into hockey, my dad told a friend at his work about it. That friend gave my dad two big things filled with hockey cards (And a few Desert Storm cards, actually). The first one I pulled out of the box was a Score91 Mike Liut with a purple border.
Familiar Rapports: Bald Pollack, F&B, Gould Old Days.
Lobbies: Osala, Perreault, Erskine, Pothier, Neuvirth, Flash.
Fan of: Mean Lars Backstrom, Line Mashing, Cake.
Let it never be said that this isn’t a full service blog.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
Love that card. I have to go find it now.
Familiar Rapports: Bald Pollack, F&B, Gould Old Days.
Lobbies: Osala, Perreault, Erskine, Pothier, Neuvirth, Flash.
Fan of: Mean Lars Backstrom, Line Mashing, Cake.
by Whiter Mage on Nov 19, 2009 10:02 PM EST up reply actions
Via the shoebox next to your desk?
"Let the rest be scared of us." - Emo Bunny Sasha Semin
by Scott in Shaw on Nov 20, 2009 2:47 PM EST up reply actions
Al Jensen and Pat Riggin — the original Capitals goalie tandem
...from these honored dead we take increased devotion to that cause for which they gave the last full measure of devotion.
by Gould Old Days on Nov 19, 2009 10:30 AM EST up reply actions
Yeah, me too. PeeeEEEEEeeete!
"Camaraderie, that's what the Washington Capitals are all about."
by CapitalCentre on Nov 19, 2009 11:28 AM EST up reply actions
I may be wildly overreacting, but I get the feeling this could possibly end up being a lost season for Theo. It appears that his family is in some kind of crisis and it’s probably related to their loss this summer. Rightfully so, he’s dealing with it as his first priority. The hitch is that Varlamov appears to be getting into a groove. If he continues to improve, does Bruce make him the de facto #1? And if that happens, what does that do to Theo’s psyche given everything else he’s dealing with right now? It’s a real tough situation that Bruce has to handle very carefully. Hopefully, I’m way off-base and this is nothing more than a temporary blip, but I’ve just got a weird feeling about all this.
My hope is that Theo’s psyche about everything is family first – which it seems to be. Frankly, if he came out tomorrow and announced he was retiring due to family issues, I wouldn’t think less of the guy; if anything, I would think a ton more. Yours is a thought I had too, and I just feel awful for Theo.
At the same time, so many athletes say that going to the stadium is their way away from it all.
Familiar Rapports: Bald Pollack, F&B, Gould Old Days.
Lobbies: Osala, Perreault, Erskine, Pothier, Neuvirth, Flash.
Fan of: Mean Lars Backstrom, Line Mashing, Cake.
I don’t like the negative speculation here.
If you want to make something up so that it doesn’t feel so bad then say that Theo and family have to do lawyers depositions for a few days because they’re suing the doctors. That could be a perfectly valid explanation. Looking for something bad here is just the wrong move.
There’s a difference between looking for something bad and letting bad thoughts run through your mind. By all means, I’m hoping for nothing but the best for Theo.
Familiar Rapports: Bald Pollack, F&B, Gould Old Days.
Lobbies: Osala, Perreault, Erskine, Pothier, Neuvirth, Flash.
Fan of: Mean Lars Backstrom, Line Mashing, Cake.
by Whiter Mage on Nov 19, 2009 10:00 AM EST up reply actions
Agreed, and didn’t mean it so specific to you. But maybe we can all find plausible explanations to run through our mind that don’t have to turn negative. I’m happy to think such things about someone’s private life even if it turns out later I was just deluding myself.
It’s just too early to tell. And it’s interesting, so we all want to speculate, even though we know the best thing for him and his family is to give them space.
...from these honored dead we take increased devotion to that cause for which they gave the last full measure of devotion.
by Gould Old Days on Nov 19, 2009 10:31 AM EST up reply actions
so many athletes say that going to the stadium is their way away from it all
Note that he’s practicing, so there’s a ton of truth in that, even if he’s not feeling mentally ready to play.
As for goaltender Jose Theodore and his ongoing personal issues, Boudreau had this to say: “Everybody knows what’s been going on, and sometimes you go through a rough break mentally. He wants to play so well and he wants to work hard for the team, but sometimes everything adds up, and we said, ‘Take a step back for a couple days. We still think you’re a great goaltender, but there’s things physically you’re doing everything right, but sometimes you’re drained mentally.’ So we want him to take a couple days, get ready, and start again.”
-Capital Insider
Pretty much what we thought. He just needs time.
And Laign I guess.
"If you're gonna die after 24, might as well jump out at 23:59, no?"
by Laich It Or Lump It on Nov 19, 2009 10:18 AM EST up reply actions
Laing*
"If you're gonna die after 24, might as well jump out at 23:59, no?"
by Laich It Or Lump It on Nov 19, 2009 10:19 AM EST up reply actions
Hooray! I hope he starts tomorrow. I’ll be at the game.
"If you're gonna die after 24, might as well jump out at 23:59, no?"
by Laich It Or Lump It on Nov 19, 2009 10:18 AM EST up reply actions
Great pic from the other night via CI:
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
by J.P. on Nov 19, 2009 11:57 AM EST reply actions 3 recs
Now that’s what I call a gang bang…
"If you're gonna die after 24, might as well jump out at 23:59, no?"
by Laich It Or Lump It on Nov 19, 2009 12:23 PM EST up reply actions
That one was so good the Caps website had about five different versions of it up in the game photo gallery.
by mercurialwinger on Nov 19, 2009 1:08 PM EST up reply actions
Mrs. VT is going with another friend. They’re excited to go.
When a 3rd friend found out Bondra was going to be in attendance, she asked my wife to get her Bondra jersey autographed. My wife was skeptical (really just being lazy), but once I saw the jersey I told my wife she’s got to get it signed – its the black #12 style, it looks money.
Have fun tonight.
Miss Vermont?
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 Nov 19, 2009 2:27 PM EST up reply actions
Clark and Greenie at odds?
According to Tarik, Clark and Green got into a heated shoving match today.
Interesting!
Void Boyd! Go with Perreault!
That post is pretty funny, actually. Steckel is getting all cocky about the Ohio State-Michigan game.
"If you're gonna die after 24, might as well jump out at 23:59, no?"
by Laich It Or Lump It on Nov 19, 2009 3:11 PM EST up reply actions
As he should. Michigan football is sucking big time this year, and it makes me very happy. Especially as State beat them. Took them in hockey, too. (Happy MSU mom)
I like how he calls BMo the “little guy.” Just ‘cause you’re six-and-a-half feet tall, Stecks…
"Camaraderie, that's what the Washington Capitals are all about."
by CapitalCentre on Nov 19, 2009 6:17 PM EST up reply actions
Very interesting. I’d love to find out more, but I’m hoping that we don’t. The fact that Clark is the captain definitely makes things a little more interesting.
Also, I saw Semin was placed on IR retroactively – is that the same thing as LTIR? Or is that just to free up a roster spot?
IR and LTIR are different things. IR just frees a roster spot, but the cap hit for the injury player remains. I don’t remember the specific number of days/games a player must miss as a consequence of going on IR. LTIR has the 24 day/10 game requirement, frees the roster sport and allows the team to go over the cap by that plays salary. For example, Mike Knuble is on LTIR and his cap his is about 2.5mil. So the Capitals are allowed the exceed the caps by 2.5mil.
I wonder if Greenie had a little too much fun at the game last night and didn’t come into practice ready to go?
ooooh, good call. GreenLife52 must have reared its ugly head a little too much in NYC.
by ns on Nov 19, 2009 2:50 PM EST up reply actions
must have
figure of speech i know, but c’mon. we have no idea.
by Natty Bumppo on Nov 19, 2009 2:53 PM EST up reply actions
by ns on Nov 19, 2009 2:56 PM EST up reply actions
i’ve been a major speculation offender in the past. not trying to bust anyone’s balls. but i do think it’s a good precedent for commenters here not to get too far ahead of ourselves on occasions like this.
by Natty Bumppo on Nov 19, 2009 3:02 PM EST up reply actions
Not NYC, he was here, at the Wizards game with Ovie and Nicky.
"Let the rest be scared of us." - Emo Bunny Sasha Semin
by Scott in Shaw on Nov 19, 2009 4:11 PM EST up reply actions
If we could stick with Bradley’s work for the Caps that would be fine. No more links to National Geographic, please.
But Brawndo's got what plants crave. It's got electrolytes.
There’s always the option of not clicking the link if you’re not interested in reading it.
by David Getz on Nov 19, 2009 4:23 PM EST up reply actions 1 recs
I wonder if I put to a vote “no more Nat Geo links or no more hotdog88gt” what the results would be.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
I’d argue deservedly so. I’d also argue desiredly so, but that’s another matter.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
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Southeast Standings
| GP | W | L | OTL | PT | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Florida
|
51 | 24 | 16 | 11 | 59 |
|
Washington
|
52 | 27 | 21 | 4 | 58 |
|
Winnipeg
|
54 | 24 | 24 | 6 | 54 |
|
Tampa Bay
|
51 | 23 | 23 | 5 | 51 |
|
Carolina
|
54 | 20 | 25 | 9 | 49 |
(updated 2.7.2012 at 3:17 AM EST)
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