Capital Ups and Downs: Week 5
by J.P. on Nov 2, 2009 11:00 AM EST
in Capital Ups and Downs
143 comments
Our weekly look at individual Washington Capitals' ups and downs:
| Goalies | Trend | Notes |
| Jose Theodore | - | Gave up one he'd probably like to have back against the Isles and had some hard luck against C'bus, but stopped 41 of 43 (including a penalty shot) against Philly and was 1-0-2/3.63/.895 for the week. |
| Semyon Varlamov | - | Apparently told SovSport after the Atlanta win that the team concentrates more on the game when he's in goal. Now if only he'd concentrate more on the game when he's in goal... |
| Defensemen | ||
| John Erskine | - | Still not ready to play, but the Caps probably have used his skillset against Columbus. |
| Mike Green | - | Points in nine-straight, but an even-rating and very uneven play (albeit not at full health). |
| Milan Jurcina | ▲ | Dare I say... steady? Bonus points for coming right back after taking a nasty spill into the boards against Columbus. Slovakian Machine never breaks? |
| Shaone Morrisonn | - | Can a player fall down the depth chart while sticking on the top pairing? |
| Brian Pothier | ▼ | No production + bad penalty = down arrow |
| Tom Poti | ▼ | Prior to Friday night, Poti had a streak of a half-dozen "+1s" in a row, but he's making bad decisions, failing to clear pucks and generating no offense. |
| Jeff Schultz | - | Offensive outburst apparently behind him, Sarge is back to doing his thing - playing very solid defense with the occasional goofy lookin' gaffe. |
| Tyler Sloan | ▼ | Time to move him to the list of forwards? Or, better yet, Hershey? |
| Forwards | ||
| Keith Aucoin | - | Two points in four games, but hasn't done enough to warrant consideration for a full-time NHL gig once the team gets healthy. |
| Nicklas Backstrom | ▲ | Seven points in four games while battling the flu. Faceoffs are still a concern. |
| Matt Bradley | - | Has had some good opportunities for that second fighting major of the season, but is doing other things, and doing them pretty well. |
| Chris Clark | ▼ | Whatever Clark's on-ice role is on this team right now, he's not doing it well. |
| Eric Fehr | ▼ | With nearly every game that passes, Fehr's "make or break" season seems more and more broken. |
| Tomas Fleischmann | ▲ | Who are you and what have you done with the real Tomas Fleischmann? |
| Boyd Gordon | - | Still out, still missed. |
| Alexandre Giroux | ▼ | Back to Hershey, where he belongs. |
| Mike Knuble | - | Just three goals in 14 games (a 17-goal pace) and a few bad penalties along the way, but his effort is always there. |
| Brooks Laich | ▲ | Three helpers against Atlanta and a pair of goals against the Jackets. |
| Quintin Laing | ▲ | Comes back from H1N1 and scores a goal to add yet another chapter in the crazy story that is Laing's hockey life. |
| Brendan Morrison | ▲ | Terrific effort every night. |
| Michael Nylander | ▲ | Five AHL games, five points. Now let's get down to business... |
| Alex Ovechkin | ▲ | Caps Nation holds its collective breath. |
| Alexander Semin | ▼ | Do you really want to be wondering come playoff time if one of your alleged star players is going to show up? |
| David Steckel | - | Strong game against C'bus, but didn't have much else going on this past week. |
2 recs |
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Chris Clark’s role could be: ‘Physically responsible’ forward. TBD… which probably says it all.
by TylerG on Nov 2, 2009 11:04 AM EST reply actions 0 recs
Semin may be in a funk right now, but he is clutch (including come playoff time). He’s the classic lazy player when he doesn’t feel challenged, but when he decides to play, he’s a monster (can you call a finesse player a monster?).
B.Mo looks like he’s 25 again… Best player not named Ovie on many nights this season.
God kills a kitten every time Sidney whines.
by Chris meet Alex on Nov 2, 2009 11:09 AM EST reply actions 0 recs
When has Semin not shown up for the playoffs?
22 points in 21 games, +1 average, 2 game winning goals..
I am a bit curious if he plays as well this year as he did last year when Ovi was hurt though.
by Icebat on Nov 2, 2009 11:09 AM EST reply actions 0 recs
All I know is a trade is a really, really good idea right now.
This team needs a fire under their a$$.
by marks4java on Nov 2, 2009 11:10 AM EST reply actions 0 recs
They need a fire under their ass for the playoffs, lighting a fire that burns out in February isn’t helpful. A measured approach to this is probably a better one.
by Knee high to a duck on Nov 2, 2009 11:22 AM EST up reply actions 1 recs
It’s not doing 27 to be playing in Hershey right now. The only way he’s going to be ready in April is to be in the NHL ASAP.
by TylerG on Nov 2, 2009 11:27 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
And the only way to make that happen is a trade, yeah. That’s a fine and good reason to make that trade, but trying to light a fire at this point is a different trade than one that makes room for Alzner, in all probability.
by Knee high to a duck on Nov 2, 2009 11:29 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Yes. If he needs to cut his teeth, let him do it in the regular season, where apparently it’s common place for our D to screw up.
At least a guy like Alzner could presumably learn from the experience.
And yes – need to trade/cap space, blah, blah, blah. As Tim Gunn says, “Make it work.”
Russian Machine Never Breaks
by macvechkin on Nov 2, 2009 12:12 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Do you really want to be wondering come playoff time if one of your alleged star players is going to show up?
I think everyone here should probably be able to guess where I come down on this.
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...
by Fehr and Balanced on Nov 2, 2009 11:14 AM EST reply actions 0 recs
If you were going to make that trade, could you see Anaheim giving up Perry if Semin had signed a reasonable extension? I don’t think that’s a straight-up and the details would have to be jiggered, but Perry is the kind of player we seem to need – nasty, hard to play against, over-the-line dirty.
I would hate it, because I hate Corey Perry, but I wonder what any kind of trade involving 28 would look like.
by Knee high to a duck on Nov 2, 2009 11:36 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I don’t think ANA has any intention of moving Getzlaf or Perry. Moving Semin would have to bring back a lot. He’s still RFA so a trade now or in the off-season gives the team that gets him a lot of control over his movement and the team can keep his contract lower than “market value.” I’d have to think he brings back a top flight player, whether F or D (or G). I could also see a package that was based around a blue chip prospect and a first round pick. The possibilities are too numerous to really speculate concretely, other than to note that he isn’t going to just be given away. His flaws aren’t so glaring that we need to get rid of him, and he undeniably has elite game-breaking talent. I do think that if he moves during the season it will be for an impact roster player because we need to replace that production to contend for the Cup. In the off-season a prospect/pick trade makes more sense.
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...
by Fehr and Balanced on Nov 2, 2009 11:43 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
agreed
in addition to the obvious talent/youth factor, the additional variable is that Semin is Ovie’s BFF. At the end of the day, that’s not everything…but it is something. And I have to imagine that on some level that relationship would be taken into account.
by DonnieKnutts on Nov 2, 2009 11:59 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
but to add to that
If it’s an offseason move (and that’s the only time I could imagine it happening), then it’d presumably be after a Cup-less (or at least conf. final-less) season… and in that case, I think Ovie would overlook his friendships if the deal would put the team closer to a Cup.
by DonnieKnutts on Nov 2, 2009 12:00 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Taken into account by whom? GMGM certainly can’t (or shouldn’t) do anything that could hurt the team (i.e. pay Semin more than we can afford to) just to keep the BFFs together. I have no doubt that AO will continue to dominate if Semin leaves. He’s a pro and he knows where his priorities are. If Semin wants to take into account that AO is his BFF then he can let that be reflected in the contract he signs. In all likelihood we’re going to need to pay 6+ to lock up Baxter for the future, money well worth it. I don’t think we can afford to give 6+ to Semin in addition to AO and Baxter. I’d rather use the limited cap space to keep Green/Carlson/Alzner/Schultz together for the long run. That group of 4D has me very excited about our future. If Semin takes a discount and signs for less than 6 I think it’s wise to keep him because he’ll be outproducing that cap hit, but I don’t think it’s particularly likely. Semin and his agent are well-aware (I’m sure, though with no proof) that Semin’s skill could haul in 6+ on an open market. How much of a discount is it reasonable to assume, that’s the question.
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...
by Fehr and Balanced on Nov 2, 2009 12:04 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
taken into account by GMGM
…if it were a midseason trade. I could only see it happening during the middle of this season if there is a catastrophic losing streak.
I’m talking trades here, not contracts… I mean, I know that contracts affect trades, but if Semin walks away this summer because the Caps can’t pay him enough, that’s one thing. It’s different—or at least it will be perceived differently—than if the team actively shops and trades him, which I think would bother Ovie if it were done in the middle of the season.
by DonnieKnutts on Nov 2, 2009 12:09 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I don’t think AO is as mentally soft as a lot of other people seem to. I honestly don’t see him changing his play because of how Semin is handled unless it looked like GMGM was trying to publicly humiliate AS or traded him for a bag of rocks (neither of which do I think is likely).
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...
by Fehr and Balanced on Nov 2, 2009 12:18 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Agrred 100%. Does anyone here think AO would rather lose with Semin than win without him?
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
by J.P. on Nov 2, 2009 1:03 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Agreed, no way Semin stays if he wants 6+million. Backstrom for 6+ and Semin for 5+ is probably the only way it works. Pierre LeBrun reported that the Semin talks weren’t going that well. If true, maybe it’s because Semin does want to be in the $6 million category.
by b.orr4 on Nov 2, 2009 12:10 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
take LeBrun with a big pile of salt.
by RedBirdie on Nov 2, 2009 12:17 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
In general, I find LeBrun to be pretty good. He’s got column inches to fill everyday, so he’ll throw stuff out there but he’s certainly no Garrioch. And that kind of info would definitely come from the agent, not McPhee. Still, it doesn’t change the fact that if Semin wants $6 million+, he ain’t stayin’.
by b.orr4 on Nov 2, 2009 12:43 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
From the Semin camp perspective they probably are not going well since Backstrom is the priority…
by Direction 87 on Nov 2, 2009 1:32 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Semin’s camp should remember two things: 19 is the priority for Lots of Obvious Reasons. And 8 doesn’t really have an agent, much less have an agent whispering to LeBrun in October.
by redlineblue on Nov 2, 2009 2:25 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
That was my thought, but I’m skeptical that LeBrun actually knows what he’s talking about on this one. GMGM is always tight lipped and if Semin’s camp was letting info out why hasn’t one of our beat writers picked up on it yet? (Then again, why didn’t we hear about Mike Green’s Weight Gain 4000 diet until this training camp?)
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...
by Fehr and Balanced on Nov 2, 2009 12:17 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Are they both really worth that? I mean, yeah, that would be the going market rate, but why? Michael Nylander*, that’s why. If Nylander takes that Edmonton contract, the ridiculous offer sheets to Vanek and Penner never happen. I’d wager that we wouldn’t be in the “Jeff Finger Era” either. Semin and Backstrom get 3-4M without those offer sheets. Now there is no way they get the same pay as Jeff Finger as they are clearly worth more than Jeff Finger.
(*)only partially snark. I don’t really blame Nylander personally, it was just unfortunately him at the center of that
by renstar on Nov 2, 2009 2:25 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Do we suspect that Semin is playing hurt, too? Did I see it written that he took a cross check to the back recently? (I never catch all the action on the ice — either it’s because I’ll never be that good at it, or my seat location, or both.) He’s delicate, that way. For a hockey player, anyway. On the other hand, watching some of his play, I sometimes think to myself, wow, I didn’t know he could be that physical (not in the hit department, but muscling for the puck).
Man, Knuble built up a hell of a lot of goodwill on that PK last night; makes the bad penalty mostly forgiveable.
by gfcaps fan on Nov 2, 2009 11:21 AM EST reply actions 0 recs
Revealing?
There were three Caps drinking out of paper cups on the bench last night: 19, 28 and 53. The rest were using water bottles.
by TylerG on Nov 2, 2009 11:28 AM EST up reply actions 3 recs
Paper cups aren’t shared. I’d think “flu” before “injury”.
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by Your Nation's Capital on Nov 2, 2009 11:29 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Also, good observation.
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by Your Nation's Capital on Nov 2, 2009 11:30 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Good eye
Did you catch that on the TV feed or did one of the beat writers publish that info? If you caught that on TV I’m impressed with your attention to detail.
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...
by Fehr and Balanced on Nov 2, 2009 11:34 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Agreed with the others, great catch. We already knew Backstrom was playing sick. Laing is recovering from swine flue, so it’s a given you still don’t want to share with him. If Semin is playing sick, I take it all (or most of it) back.
by gfcaps fan on Nov 2, 2009 11:37 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I would say it’s not a coincidence that he was drinking from a paper cup.
And perhaps the entire team ought to go paper for the next few games.
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by Your Nation's Capital on Nov 2, 2009 11:42 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Semin was sick — the week before Laing and missed two games with his illness. (He had missed the Monday practice and was sent to the doctor; came back Tuesday, and then was out on Wednesday and for the Atlanta and NY Isles games on the road).
Came back. Did well against Philthy. Got cross checked in the back on Friday, was in pain but said he was okay Saturday. He did have two assists on Sunday even though everyone is bitching and moaning about his lack of productivity.
by CapsFan75 on Nov 3, 2009 8:19 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
that was a great PK...still
…with his ice time and PP minutes, he should be out-goaling Matt Bradley. Three in 14 is not good.
by DonnieKnutts on Nov 2, 2009 11:36 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Goal-wise, Knuble’s down from previous years but point-wise, he’s ahead of his pace for the last few years. I feel pretty confident that once his role gets set a little more, the goals will come around. Knuble, I think, is the one guy we don’t need to worry about.
by b.orr4 on Nov 2, 2009 11:59 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
So, 5 points in 4 games is not enough for Semin to get even?…C’mon…
by fnralch on Nov 2, 2009 11:39 AM EST reply actions 0 recs
It wasn’t his points, it was his everything else. Mostly decision-making.
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by Your Nation's Capital on Nov 2, 2009 11:42 AM EST up reply actions 1 recs
Are you talking about the yesterday’s pass to Flash?
by fnralch on Nov 2, 2009 11:43 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
With his decision-making skills he should be in government.
Earlier in his career it was easy to question his commitment or effort. These days it’s his hockey sense. It’s almost a certainty that when it looks like he should shoot, he’ll pass and vice versa. Makes no sense at all. While he has all the talent in the world his uncanny ability to make the worst decision will keep me from considering him to be an elite-level player.
by Gin and Tonic on Nov 2, 2009 12:58 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Can I get an explanation of what this means?
by Gin and Tonic on Nov 2, 2009 4:00 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
it was once said that Semin has all the hockey sense of a rabbit. Hence you occasionally see bunnies when Semin’s (lack of) hockey smarts is brought up.
by RedBirdie on Nov 2, 2009 4:02 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
oh, and the rabbit is drumming, which is an awesome touch!
by RedBirdie on Nov 2, 2009 4:02 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
but you have seen him play bongos, no?
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I01Ncx4VSno
by RedBirdie on Nov 2, 2009 4:55 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
haha yea i was being snarky. he bongos like a champ!
by twistedlogic on Nov 2, 2009 4:56 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
hey, any excuse to post Sasha’s bongo session. Hopefully, the wonderful photoshops start popping up.
by RedBirdie on Nov 2, 2009 4:58 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
every time i see that, i think of that lame commercial they had on CSN last year with all of the caps in that band. they had mike green on drums (i guess cuz he’s learning to play them) but heck, they shoulda had semin playin the bongos! woulda been perfect.
by twistedlogic on Nov 2, 2009 5:02 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
sorry about that, G&T.
the origin of the rabbit reference (and hence NS’s avatar): here (linking the old site so you can get a look at comments).
by Natty Bumppo on Nov 2, 2009 4:46 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
It’s telling that the defensemen are largely down arrows or steady, the forwards steady or up arrows,
It is not a team with all oars pulling in the same direction.
If you've read this far...seek help.
by ThePeerless on Nov 2, 2009 11:57 AM EST reply actions 1 recs
Like that observation/analogy. Rec’d
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by Your Nation's Capital on Nov 2, 2009 12:04 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
The Bob Woods effect
D that never played for him in HER are regressing. I don’t think that’s what we were hoping for…
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...
by Fehr and Balanced on Nov 2, 2009 12:06 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
THAT is a great observation. Definitely Schultz is steadily growing and the more “veteran” D (Particularly Poti – which by the way is a great sitcom name) look a bit lost out there. Is that (hopefully) a temporary effect of getting using to what he expects (or a system?) or something more serious. I think we need to give that one time.
God kills a kitten every time Sidney whines.
by Chris meet Alex on Nov 2, 2009 1:02 PM EST via mobile up reply actions 0 recs
The two P’s on D are really struggling, on both ends of the ice. They cant get their shot off on the power play at all. If they kept a stat for pucks not cleared on the power play Poti might be leading the league…awful. It says a lot (not all good) when Juice might be our most consistent, reliable, d man, but good for Juice.
by Direction 87 on Nov 2, 2009 1:45 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Part of Poti’s problem is that for some reason, he’s using a scorer’s stick with a curved head instead of a straight one. Which makes those backhand “clears” an adventure. He really needs to go back to the old stick and forget the offense.
by Forsch31 on Nov 2, 2009 2:58 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
hm, didn’t know that. Has he always used a curved stick?
by RedBirdie on Nov 2, 2009 3:03 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I’m not buying it. He’s in the NHL, that’s not even close to an excuse.
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...
by Fehr and Balanced on Nov 2, 2009 3:07 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
This. Give me a break.
Maybe play with an edge, be a little more physical -- maybe be more of a prick out there.
by jordanDC on Nov 2, 2009 3:12 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Q: Has Tom Poti ever been missed after he left?
A: No.
Russian Machine Never Breaks
by macvechkin on Nov 2, 2009 3:13 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Agreed. Even the plumbers in the show have sick hands, Poti is completely capable of clearing the puck with that (or almost any) curve, his problems stem from being unaware of his time and space, off-balance due to hurrying or pressure, not in proper position, etc. Clearly a decision making problem.
God kills a kitten every time Sidney whines.
by Chris meet Alex on Nov 6, 2009 3:50 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Flash is quickly becoming one of my new favorite players to watch.
"My face is my mask."
by jakeshapiro on Nov 2, 2009 11:59 AM EST reply actions 0 recs
what i like about him
…is that he’s a bit of an anomaly on the team because most of our forwards seem to be either grit or glamour, but few in between. Flash (and maybe morrison) is the closest we have to a player that can give you a little of both.
by DonnieKnutts on Nov 2, 2009 12:02 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
This is the closet Flash comes to grit
Russian Machine Never Breaks
by macvechkin on Nov 2, 2009 12:16 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
grit might be the wrong word
but two-way play at least. Pots addressed that in yesterday’s between-period interview, that Flash actually does put in work on the defensive end. Which is why I think Flash is the rare Caps winger that can actually fit in reasonably well and produce on any of the top lines.
by DonnieKnutts on Nov 2, 2009 12:18 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
It’s early and a small sample size, but Flash has been doing very well in the hard work and grit department in these last three games.
Aside from his ability to pot 19 goals for $750,000, I was extremely critical of Flash in the offseason. As I said in the recap, consider that changed until he reverts to his old habits, this new guy has been winning battles and getting his nose dirty to make plays. If by grit you mean chippiness, then yes, Flash isn’t likely to add a facewash or a slash after the play is over. But you can’t fault his play or toughness on the ice thus far this season.
by Knee high to a duck on Nov 2, 2009 12:23 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
it’s not a hate on Flash. he does seem stronger on his skates, so far, this year.
Russian Machine Never Breaks
by macvechkin on Nov 2, 2009 12:31 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Both his goals have come from three feet from the crease. That says something.
by b.orr4 on Nov 2, 2009 12:45 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Wow, nice work, whoever-made-this-chart.
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by Your Nation's Capital on Nov 2, 2009 1:01 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
From the post during the playoffs. I remember it.
by gfcaps fan on Nov 2, 2009 1:02 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
is that he’s a bit of an anomaly on the team because most of our forwards seem to be either grit or glamour, but few in between. Flash (and maybe morrison) is the closest we have to a player that can give you a little of both.
Aren’t you forgetting someone?
by red army line on Nov 2, 2009 1:04 PM EST up reply actions 1 recs
The best power forward in the game, I believe.
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...
by Fehr and Balanced on Nov 2, 2009 1:04 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Giving the benefit of the doubt, I’d say any statement like the above is always meant to include the words, “excluding Alex Ovechkin”.
by gfcaps fan on Nov 2, 2009 1:05 PM EST up reply actions 1 recs
indeed
excluding Ovie, who could probably suit up in net and do a fair job.
by DonnieKnutts on Nov 2, 2009 1:15 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Heh, good points. But having your superstar being far from soft I felt is an advantage that was really being understated. He sets the tone for the rest of the team and the other team as well.
by red army line on Nov 2, 2009 1:49 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Bruce Boudreau on NHL Live noon-two starting … right now. To discuss his book, Ovi’s injury, and NHL to announce its October MVP.
http://www.nhl.com/ice/news.htm?id=504455
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by Your Nation's Capital on Nov 2, 2009 12:03 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
grrr, I can’t listen at work. Would you (or another kind soul!) give a summary? thank you!
by RedBirdie on Nov 2, 2009 12:06 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I think you can watch it here? It’s blocked for me.
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by Your Nation's Capital on Nov 2, 2009 12:15 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
You can indeed. I run it in the background all the time, like right now. And anyone who thinks that Bruce is saying anything more about Ovie than he’s day-to-day, I have a bridge in Brooklyn to sell you.
by gfcaps fan on Nov 2, 2009 12:17 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Of course, I don’t share my workspace with anyone, and I control it all, so it’s different for me.
by gfcaps fan on Nov 2, 2009 12:18 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
anyone who thinks that Bruce is saying anything more about Ovie than he’s day-to-day,
Aaaand, I declare myself a winner here, it’s exactly what he said.
by gfcaps fan on Nov 2, 2009 1:01 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
its an audio issue. They took out our sound cards when we got new computers to prevent us from streaming radio!
by RedBirdie on Nov 2, 2009 12:17 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
WOW.
Fight, you time-wasting figure skaters!
by boutros23 on Nov 2, 2009 12:20 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
apparently, when 150 people all stream at once it mucks up the network. I’ve also been told that many people were being rude and not using headphones, and when you work in cube-landia, that’s a huge no-no!
by RedBirdie on Nov 2, 2009 12:28 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I guess… I get my voicemail through my computer, so we need sound cards.
Fight, you time-wasting figure skaters!
by boutros23 on Nov 2, 2009 12:48 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
150 concurrent streams is a pretty serious bandwidth issue for an external connection, maybe not so much the internal network.
by Knee high to a duck on Nov 2, 2009 12:50 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
same here. pain in the ass. now i have to bring my ipod to work
by twistedlogic on Nov 2, 2009 4:57 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
You didn’t miss all that much. It was a fairly short interview. NHL Live guys obviously didn’t watch yesterday’s game. Asked about Ovi. Not surprisingly BB had nothing new to say. The one good portion was when EJ asked him about the hazing incident in the book.
A man gotta have a code
by CP2Devil on Nov 2, 2009 1:01 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Considering the point of him being on was to promote the book, too much time was spend saying nothing about Ovie’s injury.
by gfcaps fan on Nov 2, 2009 1:03 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
They had to ask. Not like they took up 5 minutes on it. problem was they only had him for one segment. My biggest complaint with that show is when they get good guests with great stories and the ball starts rolling it ends quickly. They rarely ever hold a guest over into a 2nd segment. The best radio hosts and producers realize when they have something good and adjust on the fly.
A man gotta have a code
by CP2Devil on Nov 2, 2009 1:14 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Agreed, especially when heading into a caller segment. However, said guest has to agree to stay, and even with no practice, you know he’s got other things to do.
by gfcaps fan on Nov 2, 2009 1:32 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Bruce ON XM Today
For those who have XM, Bruce is supposed to be on NHL Live today sometime between 12-2.
by b.orr4 on Nov 2, 2009 12:03 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
Bummer of the Day
Whatever Clark’s on-ice role is on this team right now, he’s not doing it well.
For a little while I actually thought he was a UFA next summer.
Russian Machine Never Breaks
by macvechkin on Nov 2, 2009 12:47 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
Guess I was wrong about goalies canceling each other out. Andersen wins the POM award for October. Can’t really argue with the choice.
A man gotta have a code
by CP2Devil on Nov 2, 2009 1:05 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
I could argue
Did Anderson tie a longstanding record?
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...
by Fehr and Balanced on Nov 2, 2009 1:05 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
No, but he has stood on his head and has a team many of us thought would be fairly horrible this season to become tied with Pens with most points in NHL.
A man gotta have a code
by CP2Devil on Nov 2, 2009 1:08 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
COL has scored the 4th most goals in the WC. COL has allowed the 4th fewest goals in the WC. I’d say their rejuvenated offense has as much to do with their record as Anderson’s (admittedly strong) play. Anderson isn’t winning 1-0 games every night, he’s giving strong play behind a very solid team. 6 multi-goal games in 13 is just ridiculous.
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...
by Fehr and Balanced on Nov 2, 2009 1:12 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
They should enjoy it, because November is not going to be pretty for them.
Russian Machine Never Breaks
by macvechkin on Nov 2, 2009 1:15 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
like I said yesterday, what Anderson has done is great. Its just not historically great, and when someone has a historically great month, it needs to be recognized.
by RedBirdie on Nov 2, 2009 1:15 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Do you think 52 should’ve taken home the Norris last season?
by red army line on Nov 2, 2009 1:50 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
actually, yes. On the grounds that he was the best D-man in the regular season last year. Chara’s win was a bit of a “lifetime achievement” award, made easier to give since Lidstrom had an “off” year by his standards and Green is just a kid who’s defense is unfairly trashed, facts be damned, because he’s a little too flashy and eager to score goals.
by RedBirdie on Nov 2, 2009 2:08 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I think 52 should’ve won the Norris, but I still hold that Anderson was most deserving of the 1st Star. Anyways, they’ll hand out 6 or seven more. Ovie has plenty of more chances.
by red army line on Nov 2, 2009 2:15 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
He’s got the best save percentage in the league. Look I love Ovi, but you certainly can make a case for Anderson. I’m fine with it.
Let Anderson enjoy his POM award. Ovi needs to save space on his mantle anyway for those Conn Smythe trophies.
A man gotta have a code
by CP2Devil on Nov 2, 2009 1:17 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Tied for the league lead. Meaning someone else was equally good. Who was equally as good as AO? Mario Lemieux. Years ago.
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...
by Fehr and Balanced on Nov 2, 2009 1:27 PM EST up reply actions 1 recs
Anderson is an early Hart favorite (even I daresay ahead of Ovie) because everyone expected their team to suck, and they lead the NHL, in no small part to Anderson. They could’ve been scoring 4 times a game and allowing 5 with Budaj in net, but with Anderson they’re even winning 2-0 games.
by red army line on Nov 2, 2009 1:51 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Pure speculation on an empirical question. Budaj doesn’t have a career 5 GAA so there’s no reason to think he would be letting that up.
It’s way to early to even be discussing Hart trophy nominees. I’m only saying that AO’s October > Any one else’s October.
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...
by Fehr and Balanced on Nov 2, 2009 2:09 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Meh. To you your opinion, to me mine. I think the NHL got this one right.
by red army line on Nov 2, 2009 2:16 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
It’s way to early to even be discussing Hart trophy nominees
Yeah, let’s wait and see where Anderson is in January. He’s a career backup who’s never played more than 31 games in a season. On top of that, he’s been playing in the Eastern Conference for the last three years. Let’s see how he does when the burden of playing a lot of games starts adding up and he has to go through the Western Conference a second time. Good for him that he won the POM, but my vote would have gone to Ovie because of the historical nature of what he accomplished.
by b.orr4 on Nov 2, 2009 2:21 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I’m not totally surprised, as discussed a couple of days ago. While disappointed, I’ll repeat:
I’ll trade that distinction for getting the last win in June. Anytime.
by gfcaps fan on Nov 2, 2009 1:09 PM EST up reply actions 1 recs
Well, we all would. But it’s not a trade – we can and should expect and hope for both.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
by J.P. on Nov 2, 2009 1:24 PM EST up reply actions 2 recs
Agreed with that, too, just trying to make myself feel better. Okay?
by gfcaps fan on Nov 2, 2009 1:33 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
By all means. FWIW, I find alcohol helps.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
by J.P. on Nov 2, 2009 1:49 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Maybe later on. It’s too early on my clock. But thanks for the suggestion.
by gfcaps fan on Nov 2, 2009 2:02 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Nylander’s “stint” in the AHL ends tomorrow right? So barring a trade or a move the Russian in the next 24 hours he will be back at KCI very soon?
" 60 percent of the time...it works everytime"
by shwedy on Nov 2, 2009 1:43 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
how long before GMGM can send him down to the farm for another conditioning stint? or can he?
by Natty Bumppo on Nov 2, 2009 1:53 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I suspect this was a one time thing. The NHL won’t want teams to use the AHL as a place to get their healthy scratches some playing time.
by renstar on Nov 2, 2009 2:29 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I don’t see why he can’t waive his NMC for another month in the A. Wishful thinking?
Russian Machine Never Breaks
by macvechkin on Nov 2, 2009 2:42 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I’ve got a question. If Nylander approved to be sent to Hershey and then the Caps tried to bring him back up, I know a team could place a claim for him and the Caps would be on the hook for half his salary. The question is, is the acquiring team on the hook for all of his salary cap hit or just half? The reason I ask is that if the cap hit is just half, then I find it hard to believe that some NHL team wouldn’t find him valuable at $2.4 million per year. I could think of a team up in Ontario that could use him right now at that salary. Anybody know the rule?
by b.orr4 on Nov 2, 2009 2:45 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
capgeek has the Stars and the Rags each on the hook for half of Sean Avery’s salary. So that suggests the two teams share it.
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...
by Fehr and Balanced on Nov 2, 2009 2:47 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Thanks. It seems to me that some team has got to find him worth a shot at that salary, but maybe he’s such damaged goods from his exile here that nobody wants to take a chance.
by b.orr4 on Nov 2, 2009 2:54 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Per 50.9g(ii), it’s half of the remaining amounts, so a team claiming Nylander on recall waivers would pay half and the Caps would pay half this year and next. Each club sees their half on the cap.
by apk3000 on Nov 2, 2009 2:54 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
But the Caps would take the cap hit next season too, right? Do they let him be recalled now and take the hit for two seasons or take it until the end of season and be ridded of it entirely?
by red army line on Nov 2, 2009 11:11 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I think GMGM waits. I don’t think he wants any dead cap space next year so he won’t put Nyls through re-entry waivers. He knows worst comes to worst he stashes Nyls in HER for a year next season and lets Ted pay him.
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...
by Fehr and Balanced on Nov 3, 2009 1:00 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
In terms of total cash, if this happened around the midpoint of the season the other team would pay $2.75M for the rest of this year and $1.5M for 2010-11.
At that price I don’t see how someone couldn’t bite.
Russian Machine Never Breaks
by macvechkin on Nov 2, 2009 2:54 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
math fail – half of the $2.75, or $1.375.
Russian Machine Never Breaks
by macvechkin on Nov 2, 2009 2:55 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
A player of Nylander’s ability and experience for that price? Somebody’s got to want him.
by b.orr4 on Nov 2, 2009 3:06 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
sorry I dont know what the hell i just typed. i meant to say …or a move TO RUSSIA…not a move the russian…
" 60 percent of the time...it works everytime"
by shwedy on Nov 2, 2009 1:48 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
Brendan Morrisson
If there were a protocol for a double green arrow, I’d give it to him. It’s still too early, but if he’s still playing at this level come January, I wonder if McPhee has to give some consideration to resigning him for another two years? ( I doubt he’d take a one year deal)
by b.orr4 on Nov 2, 2009 3:27 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
He’s been very good and as good as he’s been on the ice, he’s been as good off it in that he “gets it” – he’s been quoted with a “good enough isn’t good enough” attitude plenty of times already, and seems to be taking on more of a leadership role than most probably expected.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
by J.P. on Nov 2, 2009 3:33 PM EST up reply actions 1 recs
I feel really good about this guy being given a role in the playoffs and owning it.
Russian Machine Never Breaks
by macvechkin on Nov 2, 2009 3:35 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
And he even does the Sunday morning grocery shopping for the family, evidenced by a 0930 sighting of him at Harris Teeter yesterday with one of his boys.
by Cluster on Nov 2, 2009 3:37 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
B.Mo is going to be tops on the list of free agent who delivered the most bang for the buck this season.
Its also just very nice to see a guy like him who is perhaps a bit on the small side but worked so hard to be an elite player return to that elite, pre-injury, form.
by RedBirdie on Nov 2, 2009 3:43 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I like anyone who shows up to Halloween practice dressed as Chewbacca.
Fight, you time-wasting figure skaters!
by boutros23 on Nov 2, 2009 5:12 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
As always, it’s as much can they as do they? Will there be enough money left over after Backstrom and Semin are signed and Alzner/Carlson replace expiring contracts on the blue line?
by gfcaps fan on Nov 2, 2009 3:42 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
:: crossing fingers ::
IS PAЯTY NOW
by Your Nation's Capital on Nov 2, 2009 3:53 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
NHL Off The Ice tonight, featuring Ovi, Tavares, and Crosby.
Ovi really off the ice tonight. :(
IS PAЯTY NOW
by Your Nation's Capital on Nov 2, 2009 3:53 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
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Southeast Standings
| GP | W | L | OTL | PT | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Washington
|
59 | 41 | 12 | 6 | 88 |
|
Tampa Bay
|
57 | 25 | 21 | 11 | 61 |
|
Atlanta
|
57 | 25 | 24 | 8 | 58 |
|
Florida
|
58 | 24 | 25 | 9 | 57 |
|
Carolina
|
58 | 21 | 30 | 7 | 49 |
(updated 2.9.2010 at 9:00 AM EST)
Certain photos copyright © 2010 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.
