Monday Caps Clips: A Loss and A Loss
by J.P. on Nov 2, 2009 6:31 AM EST
in Caps Clips
176 comments
Your savory breakfast links:
- Recaps and other assorted musings on last night's loss from Corey (blog, article), Tarik (blog, article), Vogs, Joe B., Examiner (and here), Peerless, Puck-Rakers (Columbus) and Hockey Mom.
- Updates on Alex Ovechkin's injury. [Puck Daddy, FanPost]
- An open letter to the Caps from a concerned fan. [DC Landing Strip]
- AO... movie star? [Boston Globe]
- Do the Caps need to be more "Boudreau-like"? [Storming the Crease]
- A chat with Jake Hauswirth. [John Walton Hockey]
- On this date back in 1996, the Caps sent Keith Jones and a 1998 first round pick (used to select Scott Parker) to Colorado for Chris Simon and Curtis Leschyschyn. I'm thinking the Caps could use a late-90's Simon (minus the injuries) right about now.
- Ambassador Sergei Fedorov. [FanShot]
0 recs |
176 comments
|
Email
Print
Comments
Funny thing is that I saw a Chris Simon jersey yesterday at Verizon. More interesting thing was that it was on a person who was probably a young child when Simon last played for the Caps. Either she didn’t get the meaning or her parents are instilling Caps history in their kids!
Rough loss though. We had 22 seconds!!
by Scrabbleship on Nov 2, 2009 7:29 AM EST reply actions 0 recs
DC Landing Strip piece says it all.
A man gotta have a code
by CP2Devil on Nov 2, 2009 7:51 AM EST reply actions 2 recs
The Caps are one (maybe two) deadline deals away from being a legit contender. You could definitely argue that they are a legit contender now, but with their goaltending and defensive issues, I don’t think they’re quite there yet.
Either way, it’s way too early for an open letter like that.
The Capitals need someone like Brendan Witt at the deadline. Not necessarily Witt, but a defenseman like him. A grizzled veteran who can be nasty and play solid defense. Granted, Witt has lost a step (or three), but he can still be effective when he is motivated.
by Link_Gaetz on Nov 2, 2009 8:27 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
It’s not too early. Many of the issues date back to last season. Goaltending right now is fine. One area I’m not concerned about right now. More concerned with the quality and amount of shots opponents are getting on Caps goalies.
Caps could definitely use a solid defensive defenseman, but Brenden Witt is most certainly not the answer. The guy was slow in the prime of his career. Add in his penchant for taking not so bright penalties and he’s close to the last D man in the league I’d want on my team.
A man gotta have a code
by CP2Devil on Nov 2, 2009 8:40 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I have a nagging fear about this team. It is very, very skilled. There are times, over many games, in which they will so utterly dominate their opponents that it will be a given that they will have post season success. There will be the occasional bumps in the road where they look discombobulated. The instances of the former will occur more frequently than the latter, and the Caps will be a 100-point team year after year.
Well, so was Ottawa.
Over an eight-year period, from 1998-1999 through 2006-2007, the Senators averaged 104 points a year. They also got past the second round of the playoffs twice and never won a Cup. The complaint was that they were built for the regular season, where their sheer talent could allow them to load up on points against lesser teams. In the playoffs, where the goals are harder to come by, where teams have to find ways to win other than by their sheer skill, they kept coming up short. They lacked that edge they needed when skill wasn’t enough.
That’s the ingredient the Caps had better be adding — that Pittsburgh added last year — at the trading deadline.
If you've read this far...seek help.
by ThePeerless on Nov 2, 2009 8:40 AM EST up reply actions 2 recs
Pittsburgh had a good bit of it before the deadline, too, though.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
by J.P. on Nov 2, 2009 8:45 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
They did, and that’s why, for my money, Ray Shero is the best architect among GM’s in the game. He lucked into a situation that already had Crosby and Malkin in the fold, but he adds the ingredients that are necessary — not the big names or big talents, the ingredients that make a team complete.
If you've read this far...seek help.
by ThePeerless on Nov 2, 2009 8:47 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I believe Knuble is a step in the right direction. B. Morrison too.
Atta dinnin stick a who!
by Gould Old Days on Nov 2, 2009 8:47 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Get your point but you could make the argument that they added some of the edge already with Knuble and Morrison. Ovechkin certainly has ton a of grit. Same too for Clark, Steckel, Laich and Laing. Backstrom won’t shy away from the tough work in the corners and Flash has shown a remarkable willingness in his few games back to get dirty. So up front, I think they’ve got enough pf the edge you discussed. Notice, though, that I didn’t mention any of the defensemen. Frankly, aside from Erskine who’s a marginal player and maybe ShaMo, their defense is decidely on the finesse side. That’s where the addition’s have to be made. If we see it, McPhee has to as well. The question is with the salary cap restrictions, can he do enough to make this a tougher team to play against on the blueline.
by b.orr4 on Nov 2, 2009 8:51 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
b.orr4,
It’s like at the beginning of the season when I kept reading articles about the Caps having “too many NHL defenseman” and Boudreau liking his situation on defense, because of the number of NHL-ready D-men they have. I remember thinking “Just because you have a bunch of NHL-caliber defensemen doesn’t mean your defense will be good.” They are certainly missing a tough element back there. They could even use someone like Scuderi from last year’s Pens team, or McKee from the current Pens team (sorry for the Pens examples, but that’s what I’m best with).
CP2Devil,
Maybe Witt wasn’t the best example, but definitely someone like Witt. He is a nasty dude, and even though he has lost a step, he still catches people with their heads down in the neutral zone. Maybe Witt only gets fired up to play the Penguins anymore, because he is always a physical force on the Islanders blue-line when those two teams are playing.
Also, sorry for the novel I’m writing, but the Caps forwards are fairly gritty. I don’t think too much sandpaper needs to be added to the lineup up front. However (and this is from an outside point of view, so I could be way off base), sometimes the Caps grittier players get sucked into playing a pretty, finesse game. I guess watching Semin, Ovechkin, and Backstrom will have that effect sometimes, but it seems like players such as Laich, Fleischman, etc. get wrapped up in making pretty passes instead of making the simple play.
by Link_Gaetz on Nov 2, 2009 8:58 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Hmm.. Grit. Toughness. Ability to knock the shit out of people on the doorstep without getting called for Interference? Sounds a hell of a lot like Big John Stud to me.
Hmm.. Grit. Toughness. Ability to knock the shit out of people on the doorstep without getting called for Interference? Sounds a hell of a lot like Big John Stud to me.Get healthy big-boy…
Hmm.. Grit. Toughness. Ability to knock the shit out of people on the doorstep without getting called for Interference? Sounds a hell of a lot like Big John Stud to me.Get healthy big-boy…Oh, and someone needs to sit Greener down for a week or a month and get his bum-ass healthy. Letting Nash walk around him like he was Schultz Gm1 of the NYR series last year was just sad.
by FFSEnough on Nov 2, 2009 9:10 AM EST up reply actions 1 recs
I have no idea how it triple-posted that…. wth?
by FFSEnough on Nov 2, 2009 9:11 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
The question is: Is GMGM trigger-shy? It’s one thing to make deals when you’re not a contender. It’s another thing to move assets to acquire pieces.
by TylerG on Nov 2, 2009 8:59 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Hindsight being 20/20 and given the Caps performance in the playoffs and the issues that need to be addressed, do you pull the trigger on the Carlson/Alzner/One-of-Varlavirth/First for Pronger trade? Would Pronger have been the piece that put us over the top?
He’s got the snarl, he’s a bonafide PP point presence, he’s a minute munching horse that would have slotted every D down one, to a more natural position.
Mortgaging the future? You’d better believe it. The question is whether or not that’s a worthwhile gamble. I’m glad I don’t have to sit in the GM chair.
by Knee high to a duck on Nov 2, 2009 9:35 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
No, no and no. I figure the Stanley Cup favorite has a 33% chance of winning it all in a good year — there are just too many good teams out there. Better to maximize your odds of being very good over five or ten years. I like the balance they’re striking.
With that said, something like the Fedorov/Huet/Cooke trade deadline is perfect. The salary cap has them hamstrung for now — hopefully that changes soon.
Atta dinnin stick a who!
by Gould Old Days on Nov 2, 2009 9:38 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
It wasn’t the right deal at the time. That Caps team was still too young (one playoff series of experience for most) to go “all-in.”
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
by J.P. on Nov 2, 2009 9:38 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I think he was talking about making the trade at the draft like Philly did.
The price-tag is awfuly heavy, I don’t think if I was the GM I’d give up one of Alzner/Carlson AND one of Varlamov/Neuvirth AND another 1st pick…Gotta weigh that against the need to upgrade the defense with a legit (albeit aging) star like Pronger.
Pensburgh.com -- it's like the Max Talbot of blogs*
*not just because we only work for 12 minutes a night
by Hooks Orpik on Nov 2, 2009 9:47 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
No, he was talking about the deadline deal that the Caps turned down b/c Anaheim wanted the world for Pronger.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
by J.P. on Nov 2, 2009 9:49 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
(I believe… either way, no – not the right time to go all-in.)
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
by J.P. on Nov 2, 2009 9:49 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
No, JP had it right, that was the deal on the table at the deadline. I absolutely would not endorse making that trade at the draft.
by Knee high to a duck on Nov 2, 2009 9:49 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I don’t think I’d have make such a trade for a young guy like Bowmeester much less one for Pronger, especially given that the window for a Cup just opened.
A man gotta have a code
by CP2Devil on Nov 2, 2009 9:51 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
It has opened, but no one knows how long it’s going to stay that way.
Bouwmeester is overrated anyway. He and Pronger are not equivalent players, Elbows is clearly superior in this instance.
The price is very high and it gave me serious pause. This was more of a retrospect question, with the benefit of hindsight and not something I’d necessarily condone.
by Knee high to a duck on Nov 2, 2009 9:57 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I said back when it happened that they should have made room for McKee when he was bought out. Working pretty well for Pittsburgh.
Maybe play with an edge, be a little more physical -- maybe be more of a prick out there.
by jordanDC on Nov 2, 2009 10:01 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
i agree that bouwmeester is overrated. watching him try to defend ovie one on one in florida was great.
by twistedlogic on Nov 2, 2009 10:02 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
i cant think of anything in that pronger trade that would make me want to do it.
by twistedlogic on Nov 2, 2009 9:49 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Would you have pulled it for similar as PHI did, i.e. a proven top-6 forward, a great defensive prospect, and two 1st rounders?
by red army line on Nov 2, 2009 10:46 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Never, ever, for a rental. If it doesn’t work, you have ripped a large hole in your development chain that will take years to fill. It was the one almost-mistake I think Shero made in Pittsburgh in going for Marian Hossa. That’s an all-or-nothing sort of move, and Pronger would have been the same sort of deal (although his was a more conventional trade). Brining in Kunitz and Guerin last year was a much more measured, intelligent move. It addressed multiple needs for production on the wing, playoff experience, and some grit.
If you've read this far...seek help.
by ThePeerless on Nov 2, 2009 9:52 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
As you note, Pronger had a contract for 2009-10, so it wouldn’t have been a pure trade deadline rental (though he could have walked after 1 full season).
Secondly, the Pens don’t make a huge jump from “talented young team” to championship contender if they don’t acquire Hossa. It was a signal from ownership to the player’s that the time to kick it up a notch was at hand.
The core of this Caps’ team has been together for a while now, and has been allowed to develop together the right way. But I think there’s something to be said for swinging for the fences now and then. That said, it’s really tough to know when to make the call and who to bring in.
Pensburgh.com -- it's like the Max Talbot of blogs*
*not just because we only work for 12 minutes a night
by Hooks Orpik on Nov 2, 2009 10:01 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I’ll buy that, in conjunction with JP’s experience argument.
by Knee high to a duck on Nov 2, 2009 10:05 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
The Pens gave up Colby Armstrong, Erik Christensen, Angelo Esposito, and a late 1st round pick for 3 months of Marian Hossa.
I would go back in time and do that trade all over again if I am Shero.
If the Caps have the opportunity to make a move like that at the deadline (only sub a tough defenseman in hor Hossa), then they have to do it this year.
by Link_Gaetz on Nov 2, 2009 10:09 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
No doubt – a character guy, a stiff, a bust and a pick is worth it in that case. What ANA wanted for Pronger was a blue-chip D, a highly regarded G prospect and a pick – too much then.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
by J.P. on Nov 2, 2009 10:11 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Definitely too much.
The Caps don’t even need to get a Chris Pronger type.
Even someone along the lines of Francois Beauchemin.
by Link_Gaetz on Nov 2, 2009 10:13 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
(Btw, Colby Armstrong would be a nice fit here right now)
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
by J.P. on Nov 2, 2009 10:13 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
UFA at season’s end with a managable cap hit….Waddell seems to like to give gifts to fellow GM’s around the league, check back in March.
Colby used to be a better player when he wasn’t afraid of hurting people with big hits. Some players have stopped targeting the head’s of others.
Pensburgh.com -- it's like the Max Talbot of blogs*
*not just because we only work for 12 minutes a night
by Hooks Orpik on Nov 2, 2009 10:15 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I wasn’t aware that there was ever a time Colby was concerned about hurting players. He absolutely loves to kill people with their head down coming around the net. It’s common enough that everyone knows what I mean when I say “the Colby Armstrong Special.”
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 10:34 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Patrick Eaves would know what you meant, too, but he’s still clearing out cobwebs.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
by J.P. on Nov 2, 2009 10:36 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
When’s the last time he served one up?
To me, it seems Army has dropped the devastating hits to vulernable opponent’s from his arsenal.
He hit MA Beregron pretty good but that was not the same way he caught a lot of guys (Koivu, Eaves, Letowski)
Pensburgh.com -- it's like the Max Talbot of blogs*
*not just because we only work for 12 minutes a night
by Hooks Orpik on Nov 2, 2009 10:39 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Uh, against Marc-Andre Bergeron. Like a week ago. Same game as that despicable Slava Kozlov hit on Scott Gomez. Just youtube “Colby Armstrong Hit” and that’s about all you get.
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 11:03 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Head down, check. Came around the net at a vulnerable player, check. Hit up high, check. It wasn’t the worst example but it definitely fits. He definitely hasn’t dropped it from his “arsenal” (good choice of words).
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 11:05 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Agreed, JP….Even though it wasn’t a known that Esposito would be a bust (even though the signs were there).
Pensburgh.com -- it's like the Max Talbot of blogs*
*not just because we only work for 12 minutes a night
by Hooks Orpik on Nov 2, 2009 10:14 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Well, his trajectory certainly had him headed for Bustville – a year before he was drafted, he was pretty much a consensus top pick, then he slid… and slid… and slid…
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
by J.P. on Nov 2, 2009 10:15 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Or Buttsville.
Maybe play with an edge, be a little more physical -- maybe be more of a prick out there.
by jordanDC on Nov 2, 2009 10:36 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
0-3-3, -3 in seven games with Chicago in the AHL.
If you've read this far...seek help.
by ThePeerless on Nov 2, 2009 10:38 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
He had a bad knee injury, which couldn’t have helped, but there’s no doubt he’s been trending down for a couple years now.
Pensburgh.com -- it's like the Max Talbot of blogs*
*not just because we only work for 12 minutes a night
by Hooks Orpik on Nov 2, 2009 10:40 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I would not confuse playing in traffic with playing with an edge. That has to be at both ends of the rink, and it has to be with a certain atyle that risks being whistled for fouls. Using Pittsburgh as a benchmark is always problematic when it comes to the Caps, but their experience is instructive in this sense — they did it at both ends of the rink last year, and everyone bought into it, even the stars. Shoot, even Ruslan Fedotenko, who isn’t generally thought of as a “greasy” player bought into it. I don’t yet see that level of commitment at both ends from the Caps, and I’m not sure it is something that can be turned “on” come April.
Then there is the matter of production (and that comparison to Ottawa rears its head). Look at Clark, Laing, Steckel, Bradley, Gordon, Fehr and Aucoin… a combined 7-12-19, and Bradley has a almost a third of those points and almost half of those goals. For whatever reason, it is apparent that Chris Clark is not nearly the player he was before all the injuries. One hopes he’ll get back to that level, but it’s hardly a given. David Steckel, who himself seemed to expect a bigger contribution offensively, hasn’t gotten started in that regard (yes, he’s not paid to score goals, but one would be nice).
That group has taken 28 minutes in penalties, but even of that low level (for what are primarily checkers and energy players), there have been a lot of silly penalties — Boyd Gordon, this means you.
What I see — and fear for — is that this is a top-heavy team build with skill and too little of other things. There is a line that goes, “draft for skill,” and add other things through trades, free agency, and waivers. Yes, Mike Knuble is a start (and he’s showing a more rounded game in terms of where he applies his effort than just being a crease-crasher), but I’m not sure that the Caps have done enough of a job with the latter to make this club a real contender in June.
If you've read this far...seek help.
by ThePeerless on Nov 2, 2009 9:04 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Mike Knuble is a start
Part of the reason they brought Knuble here was his ability, but maybe just as important is the example he can give on the intensity you need to win in the playoffs. We’re only a month in, but I’m starting to see some of those intangibles, particularly in Laich. You mention Pittsburgh. Well maybe one of the best things to happen to that team was the injuries they’ve had to deal with to their stars. In a way, it forces their secondary players to step up and then when the stars return, the team is much better for it. Even though they lost, we saw that in yesterday’s game. I’m not wishing it because you never want to lose a guy like Alex, but if Ovechkin is out for a few games, it may be a blessing in disguise.
by b.orr4 on Nov 2, 2009 9:17 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I’m not wishing it because you never want to lose a guy like Alex, but if Ovechkin is out for a few games, it may be a blessing in disguise
Yeah you never want a guy to get hurt, but I see your point. The team rallied around some injuries, but don’t forget that they almost never got on track when Gonchar missed 4+ months of the season. Some injuries can be galvanizing to the team, but some can be devastating. I see an Ovechkin injury as the latter, really.
Pensburgh.com -- it's like the Max Talbot of blogs*
*not just because we only work for 12 minutes a night
by Hooks Orpik on Nov 2, 2009 9:24 AM EST up reply actions 1 recs
I don’t. They played well without him last season and played well when devasted by injuries roster wide as well. This team needs something to galvanize around. This may be just the medicine needed.
Obviously, that being said long term this team is much better with Ovi.
A man gotta have a code
by CP2Devil on Nov 2, 2009 9:26 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
If you say so. I think the difference lies within the time: if he’s gone for 4 games, no big deal. 4 months and there’s problems.
Luckily it seems like “day-to-day” shouldn’t mean out for months at a time.
Pensburgh.com -- it's like the Max Talbot of blogs*
*not just because we only work for 12 minutes a night
by Hooks Orpik on Nov 2, 2009 9:30 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I was assuming he’d be gone only short term. Certainly a long time absence would not be good.
I’m reminded of 2 seasons ago when a certain center for the Pens was out for a significant stretch and his teammates played pretty damn well in his absence.
A man gotta have a code
by CP2Devil on Nov 2, 2009 9:32 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Luckily for Pittsburgh, they were blessed with top-two picks in both 2004 and 2005 (and Ty friggin’ Conklin).
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
by J.P. on Nov 2, 2009 9:34 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Not many teams could lose an MVP for four months and not have it be a problem. But even in that nightmare scenario, the Caps are a playoff-calibre team that would have their leader back for the playoffs, so it wouldn’t be the end of the world.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
by J.P. on Nov 2, 2009 9:33 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
And they’d have to play their butts off every night to win the division and get a top-2 seed in the East again. If there was ever a reason to wish Ovie was out long-term…Still I’d rather have him in the lineup.
by red army line on Nov 2, 2009 10:50 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Solid post, I agree with all of it. Pittsburgh’s defense blocks a ton of shots, the forwards’ backcheck and generally play a complete effort and pretty seamless in terms of a five man unit. I think that’s a big reason for success. The Caps do a lot of that too at stretches.
Pensburgh.com -- it's like the Max Talbot of blogs*
*not just because we only work for 12 minutes a night
by Hooks Orpik on Nov 2, 2009 9:22 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I would agree to a point. I still see this team as a d-man and a 3rd line winger short.
However making deals, with who I’d like to see dealt, is going to be extremely hard. You are talking about guys who cap hits are nowhere near what they are producing – Nyles, Clark, Pothier. As for the whole but Clark is the captain thing. I don’t buy into that under normal circumstances much less when he’s not producing on or off the ice. I had higher hopes for him based on how he was moving around in the preseason, but his shifts are all over the map right now. For what he’s getting paid that just isn’t anywhere near enough.
This team isn’t doing the little things. If it was just the 1st line guys making the mistakes and not bringing intensity for 60 most nights the Caps would be in much better shape. Unfortunately, top to bottom way too many guys aren’t playing every night with the intensity, smarts, and consistency needed to win at NHL level.
I really wish BB would play Brads and Laich more minutes at this point. He needs to reward guys who are doing the little things right. I know I’ve been on the ‘send a message’ kick for a week or more but it needs to be done.
A man gotta have a code
by CP2Devil on Nov 2, 2009 9:23 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I think the emergence of Flash and Fehr playing to their potential would satisfy the 3rd line winger problem. We’ll see if that happens, but it’s nice to hope that the piece they need is already on the roster.
Atta dinnin stick a who!
by Gould Old Days on Nov 2, 2009 9:41 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I’m pretty close to giving up on one of those two…
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
by J.P. on Nov 2, 2009 9:43 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
[mentally scrolling for a new pun]
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 10:46 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
If I’m jettisoning F&B there is no way it’s for a guy like Q.
(And Clubber Laing has got to be the top of the list of Q puns, though I did like the Swine Q suggestion yesterday.)
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 12:46 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
“Fehr and Balanced” has to stay. its a reminder of your mutual back problems.
by RedBirdie on Nov 2, 2009 12:47 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
It probably will stay but I’ll keep an eye out for an upgrade.
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 1:01 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
You can always go my route. The legacy of ex-players is fixed.
Atta dinnin stick a who!
by Gould Old Days on Nov 2, 2009 3:42 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
That thought certainly crossed my mind.
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 4:24 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Since you’re a Steeler’s fan, how about Mean Mike Green, since he’s the face of our defense?
by Knee high to a duck on Nov 2, 2009 12:48 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I’ll file it away, but this talk is a bit premature in any event.
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 1:01 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Recent play (and inability to do so) would suggest Fehr..
Maybe play with an edge, be a little more physical -- maybe be more of a prick out there.
by jordanDC on Nov 2, 2009 10:49 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I see Flash as a 2nd line guy. Fehr though I could see as the possible 3rd line solution. He’s got skill, but can play with a bit of an edge. Now if he could only stay healthy long enough to see what he’s actually got.
A man gotta have a code
by CP2Devil on Nov 2, 2009 9:43 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
if he could only stay healthy long enough
Story of his career to date. I feel for the guy, but I’m guessing that if he doesn’t get back on the ice soon and stay there the rest of the season, it’s his last in a Caps uniform.
by gfcaps fan on Nov 2, 2009 9:47 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Rec’d for great info and for using “discombobulated”
by red army line on Nov 2, 2009 9:20 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
A superbly enthusiastic and rock-solid citizen
Ovie isn’t the only Caps intrigue set for Tuesday. Sigh.
IS PAЯTY NOW
by Your Nation's Capital on Nov 2, 2009 8:44 AM EST reply actions 0 recs
A trade might shake things up...
…but right now, the team has a $4.875M boat anchor salary cap issue that needs to be addressed likely before any move can be made.
Let's go Caps!
by MikeL-Caps on Nov 2, 2009 9:19 AM EST reply actions 0 recs
Not necessarily – there are trades that can be made that don’t bring back salary that could shake things up.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
by J.P. on Nov 2, 2009 9:26 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Too bad Canes are a divisional foe. I’m guessing Rutherford is ready to wheel and deal right about now. Well unless he’s about to dial up Peter Laviolette.
A man gotta have a code
by CP2Devil on Nov 2, 2009 9:34 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Who would you like to see going out to and coming back from the Canes in a trade?
Maybe play with an edge, be a little more physical -- maybe be more of a prick out there.
by jordanDC on Nov 2, 2009 9:37 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Before anyone says “Erik Cole” – 0 goals in 20 playoff games since the lockout (0 in his last 31 overall, dating back to May, 2002) and can’t stay healthy. Pass.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
by J.P. on Nov 2, 2009 9:41 AM EST up reply actions 1 recs
Speaking of the Canes, you know that saying that you can’t win the division in October but you can lose it? Well, that certainly applies to Carolina. 13 points behind the Caps and it just turned November. And we think we have problems.
by b.orr4 on Nov 2, 2009 10:03 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
We have the types of problems that need tweaking. They have the types of problems that need overhauling.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
by J.P. on Nov 2, 2009 10:05 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Every team that has success comes to the end of the road. The ’Canes are within sight of the end of the road, but can they see it?
And what in heaven’s name has happened to Eric Staal?
If you've read this far...seek help.
by ThePeerless on Nov 2, 2009 10:41 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Lots of folks think he’s been hurt all or most of the season. Not getting much help from his team mates either.
Maybe play with an edge, be a little more physical -- maybe be more of a prick out there.
by jordanDC on Nov 2, 2009 10:42 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
So after they fire Maurice, who do they hire? Laviolette?
by b.orr4 on Nov 2, 2009 10:53 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
And what in heaven’s name has happened to Eric Staal?
He is who I thought he is.
I’m grinning like a Cheshire Cat (and no Vicodin today!).
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 10:54 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
yay for no Vicodin! Finally feeling better?
by RedBirdie on Nov 2, 2009 11:03 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Yeah a little better. Mostly I’m not taking Vicodin because I can’t afford to miss anymore class so I have to be lucid today. But I can walk and leave my apartment, so that’s a plus.
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 11:06 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
a big plus.
I hate Vicodin. Everyone I know gets loopy on it, but it knocks me out completely. Nothing like trying to decide between enduring screaming pain, or sleeping through a class that only met once a week.
by RedBirdie on Nov 2, 2009 11:09 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Amen to that – I can’t stand narcotic painkillers. I had some when I got my wisdom teeth pulled, took one dose and decided that I was better off with aspirin and pain. The doctor offered to write me a ‘scrip for some when I busted my ankle and I told me not to waste the paper, I wasn’t going to fill it.
The loopy, disconnected fog really rubs me the wrong way.
by Knee high to a duck on Nov 2, 2009 11:14 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Yeah the last week feels like a dream. I’ve had the same conversation with several people more than once.
But I’m not nearly as down on Vicodin as you are. It’s got it’s virtues.
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 11:17 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
oh, I loved Vicodin post knee reconstruction surgery. I just hate that I can’t function with it because it makes me sleep. Not loopy, not “going to the store requires an escort” but 100% knocked out and snoring on the couch. I deal much much better with Percoset, for some reason.
by RedBirdie on Nov 2, 2009 11:21 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
And their 22nd ranked prospect pool certainly seems poised to restock the franchise for many years to come!
When will people start being more critical of Rutherford? Seems like nobody ever takes him to task for the ‘Canes’ weak prospect pool. Jack Johnson sure would look nice on that blueline now wouldn’t he?
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 10:54 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
They’ve overachieved for a long time. They’re an ordinary team.
Maybe play with an edge, be a little more physical -- maybe be more of a prick out there.
by jordanDC on Nov 2, 2009 10:59 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I’d be happy with Scott Walker and/or Niclas Wallin.
A man gotta have a code
by CP2Devil on Nov 2, 2009 10:05 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Just the two I was thinking of.
Maybe play with an edge, be a little more physical -- maybe be more of a prick out there.
by jordanDC on Nov 2, 2009 10:37 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Joni Pitkanen really impressed me in the playoffs last year. He was all over the place. Probably Walker or Wallin before Pitkanen though.
by red army line on Nov 2, 2009 10:54 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
And Walker, 100% of his postseason goals are Game 7 OT winners. Not bad.
by red army line on Nov 2, 2009 10:55 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I don’t want to be attending any game sevens this year. Period.
by gfcaps fan on Nov 2, 2009 10:59 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
my bank account seconds this feeling.
by RedBirdie on Nov 2, 2009 11:03 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I agree, but...
…teams that are not doing well are not likely to take on too much additional salary to make a deal. Besides, the Caps would look to bring in more grit. There aren’t many players that have the kind of grit the Caps would look for out there, so they’re going to be a bit expensive.
An ideal player for the Caps to bring in is someone like Byfuglien, who was rumored to be a Cap last year, but boy has his stock risen….
Let's go Caps!
by MikeL-Caps on Nov 2, 2009 10:43 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
If that deal goes through, the conversation is completely different today. Completely. I don’t even want to think about it.
by renstar on Nov 2, 2009 11:39 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
The Caps will be hard pressed to win it all w/o a top flight defensive Dman. As discussed ad nauseum, their roster is basically Green (“my offense is our best defense”) plus two 3-4 guys, plus 5 replacement level players. I don’t know whether the best hope is Karl or maybe even Carlson, but I can’t see this team winning it all with this backline. We can complain about the lack of effort for 60 minutes, but the real problem in my eyes is the near constant ability of opponents to set up shop right in front of our goal. How I’d love to package up 1 of our decent Dmen and a couple of our AAAA guys and a draft pick for a great defender!
Unrelated, and take this as constructive criticism from a big fan of this blog: you might give some thought as to whether you’re overstating / overplaying the Semin criticisms. At this point, your Semin observations appear to suffer from a bit of confirmation bias — you only notice the negatives and none of the positives. For instance, he’s been fantastic along the boards all season and in spite of the harping on the over passing, he’s actually created a ton of scoring chances. I know many folks have their issues with him, but this is just a suggestion to try and refresh your take on him. If nothing else, the harping isn’t up the interest/quality level of the rest of the writing and observations. 2 cent.
by CarlosLA on Nov 2, 2009 9:40 AM EST reply actions 0 recs
Unrelated, and take this as constructive criticism, but you might want to consider an avatar.
Atta dinnin stick a who!
by Gould Old Days on Nov 2, 2009 9:43 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Certainly Semin does great work along the boards and yesterday in the 1st period he was also shooting the puck. However, his turnovers are a huge detriment and completely unnecessary. His inconsistent backchecking is not exactly a help either.
A man gotta have a code
by CP2Devil on Nov 2, 2009 9:47 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Ovie’s an even worse backchecker. I’m not comparing the players or suggesting semin is nearly as effective as one of the greatest offensives players of all time, I’m just using as an example that one could find flaws in anyone’s game if that was the focus/intent.
by CarlosLA on Nov 2, 2009 9:53 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Don’t disagree on Ovi or that flaws can be found in anyone’s game. However, Semin’s issues are glaring in a head shaking way. I don’t think you;d find much disagreement that he’s the most purely skilled guy on the roster. Unfortunately his decision making doesn’t always equate with his talent at this point in his career.
A man gotta have a code
by CP2Devil on Nov 2, 2009 10:00 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
If his decision making was on par with say, Nicklas Backstrom, we’d have 3 100 point scorers on the roster, not just one. Semin can be just as good as Ovie (minus enthusiasm and hits, plus defensive play and stickhandling).
by red army line on Nov 2, 2009 10:59 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
but isn’t decision making a skill and an important part of what we mean by talent? I think most of the “issues” with semin are in actuality issues with the observer: he’s awesome, a borderline all star, brilliant “flashy” skills but his game has some big holes — all holes I’d consider an area of skill. For whatever reason, some here have decided those holes aren’t “skills” and he should just be able to “decide” to be better or be more “dedicated” or “disciplined,” and I just don’t think there’s any real world evidence for that.
by CarlosLA on Nov 2, 2009 11:41 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
By skills I think most people, including myself, are referring to physical tools. In many cases those tools are at least partly natural abilities whereas the mental aspects tend to be developed or not developed through experience.
Not sure why you have an issue with constructive criticism of a player who isn’t playing to his potential. I believe I have good company in that “observer” category you mention that I’m happy to be lumped in with.
A man gotta have a code
by CP2Devil on Nov 2, 2009 11:46 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I don’t mean to get caught up in semantics but I’d caution about a distinction that says (1) decision making isn’t a “physical” tool and (2) “mental aspects tend to be developed or not through experience” apparently as distinct from “physical tools.”
I’ll just pick one example each from what i think you mean as physical tool vs. mental aspect: puck handling and decision making. I think being world class in each of these is the result of a heavy dose of innate (i.e., natural) ability, combined with thousands and thousands of hours of practice (i.e., experience).
There are hundreds and hundreds of pro athletes in all sports who upset fans with their lack of good decision making. There are a vanishingly small % of them who ever improve enough to satisfy those fans. I think that’s for 2 reasons: first, generally the skills/abilities etc. a player has by the time they reach the pros rarely improves much after making the professional level. What tends to improve are the things associated with professional quality and professional hours/volumes of strength and conditioning programs. Basketball players who don’t have a good handle when the turn pro almost never develop one. QBs who can’t make the right read and decision in a blitz early on seldom develop that ability later (despite what the MSM would lead you to believe). One of the preeminent fallacies / judgmental biases across sports fandom is to look at your favorite team’s roster in the offseason and say, “Well if each of these guys just gets a little better at the thing they’re worst at, our team is going to be the champs!” That’s not to say that legitimately large increases in skills are impossible — just that they are so infrequent as to stand out as quite unique.
Another way to say this is that we’re quick to declare that Semin isn’t playing to his “potential.” What if this IS him playing to his potential? I don’t know how you decide that with the certainty most here seem to feel.
Personally I more frustrated for instance with Ovie’s insistence to stay on the ice during the PP despite the other guys switching up. He’s clearly exhausted and several times so far this season I think that’s contributed to the SH breakaways he’s caused by turning the puck over at the point. This isn’t a “skill” or “mental aspect” issue at all — it’s not the result of innate talent matched with tons of practice — it’s bad strategy by the team. What I don’t know is why this happens: is BB afraid to stand up to Ovie? Is Ovie ignoring the coaching staff? Does BB think this is a good strategy?
by CarlosLA on Nov 2, 2009 12:41 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Certainly there are plenty of guys who don’t improve their decision making abilities or other skills after turning pro. On the other hand there are plenty who do. Semin’s issues are easily correctable which is what drives people mad. Will he actually get better I don’t know. I suspect he can and will given the right environment. Whether that is in DC remains to be seen.
I don’t disagree on Ovi and PP, heck regular shifts for that matter. Though that is mainly a coaching issue as BB refuses to reign him in. I’’d prefer that type of problem with a player. A competitor who wants to be on the ice more is a problem many coaches wish they had.
A man gotta have a code
by CP2Devil on Nov 2, 2009 1:32 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
The biggest criticism of Semin is his lack of consistent effort, and trying hard is not a skill. Trying hard is something that any person regardless of their innate gifts can do. That is about the only thing I (and everyone else) have in common with every professional athlete: the ability to give 100% effort at all times (the results are just drastically different). Not giving 100% consistently is not the sign of a lack of skill, it’s the sign of a character flaw. That is why you so commonly hear “will beats skill”: hard work is distinctly different (and often superior) from skill.
Even using some broad definition of skill where all mental, emotional, personality and physical traits are considered a skill, there is still no reason to ignore Semin’s lack of the “skill” of hard work. Every year in the playoffs we see hard work beating out skilled teams lacking a consistent effort (the Caps almost saw that first hand last year). If hard work is truly a skill that Semin can’t/won’t develop then that is further reason to reconsider investing too heavily in him for the future of the team.
Of all our iniquities ignorance may be the worst
by Killer_Carlson on Nov 2, 2009 1:46 PM EST up reply actions 1 recs
I don’t think there’s any actual evidence Semin isn’t trying hard. I know you THINK he’s not but that’s just your supposition.
Further, there’s a ton of good social science around the ability to bring a high work rate being a skill — where both innate and learned behaviors combine. If you’ve got kids, you’ll appreciate this.
I agree that semin lacks certain skills (consistently good decision making). I very much disagree with fans claiming they have a clue about his work rate.
Finally, you have no idea what the true character is of any of the sports guys you follow — claiming performance you don’t like is a character flaw demonstrates a real lack of humility about what you know and don’t know in life.
Enough from me on this topic. I appreciate the back and forth. Good stuff here.
by CarlosLA on Nov 2, 2009 1:56 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
While Semin does have decision making issues, his bad work ethic seems to be pre-Fedorov. Since he’s been playing hard.
by red army line on Nov 2, 2009 2:18 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
You’re right, I don’t know for a fact how hard Semin is trying. But if you watch hockey enough (and I watch a ton of hockey) you can see signs of lazy play (not moving your feet, floating around the zone, lazy hooking penalties) and I often see these things from Semin.
Also, I never said poor performance is a character flaw. I said a lack of effort is a character flaw. If you aren’t getting results that is fine, as long as you are trying your hardest. I absolutely consider it a character flaw for an athlete (or anyone for that matter) to not try their hardest when they are playing the game that they get paid millions of dollars to play, and I don’t see how that makes me arrogant or lacking humility. It doesn’t make them bad people, but hard work is a virtue.
In the end though, it doesn’t matter at all whether you consider effort or consistency a skill. The fact of the matter is that Semin is wildly inconsistent (regardless of the cause) and it is a major flaw in his game that cannot be ignored simply by saying it’s a skill he doesn’t have.
Of all our iniquities ignorance may be the worst
by Killer_Carlson on Nov 2, 2009 2:21 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
you can see signs of lazy play (not moving your feet, floating around the zone, lazy hooking penalties) and I often see these things from Semin
.
I’m hard pressed to say that I’ve seen as much of this behavior lately. 6 pim’s on the season. Looks to me like he’s been backchecking better. And there’s a pretty good chance he’s been playing hurt the past couple weeks. I’m willing to cut him a little slack.
by mechanicsville on Nov 2, 2009 3:40 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
The lazy penalties have been better recently, although those 6 PIMs came on dumb penalties at bad times, but I still see him floating around at times and not being as aggressive on the forecheck as he should be. It’s certainly not a constant thing though. But as mentioned in the game recap, he was dominant to start the game against Columbus, and then in the second half didn’t do much of anything. A microcosm of his season/career.
Is there any sort of evidence to backup the claim that he is playing hurt? I mean, other than that he’s been inconsistent (which is hardly a sign of something being wrong with him)?
Of all our iniquities ignorance may be the worst
by Killer_Carlson on Nov 2, 2009 6:06 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Like any professional forward, the player is expected to compete for the puck, to backcheck, to give 60-minute efforts and to stand up for his teammates. Those should not be things for which he is given extra-credit (especially when he’s been famously lacking in the 60-minute-effort department).
by TylerG on Nov 2, 2009 9:50 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
The Caps will be hard pressed to win it all w/o a top flight defensive Dman.
I could not agree more strongly. Even within the Barn, this player currently does not exist in the organization and, imo, should be a big chunk of focus of the 4.875M…whenever that gets handled. ZZZZZzzzzzz.
by bigonetimer on Nov 2, 2009 11:32 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Are you that down on Alzner as a defensive force? You have to have him projecting out as a 3-4 type guy or worse to make that statement.
by Knee high to a duck on Nov 2, 2009 11:38 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I read it to mean that Alzner isn’t a top flight defensive Dman right now. If he means he won’t ever be I think that’s a statement without any basis in reality.
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 11:45 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
that is correct, though I can see how the term “currently” can be a tricky one. Alz is nowhere near a top pair defender right now (or he’d be up here, amirite?) I love his upside, Carlson’s too, but I’m considering only the short term of this season.
by bigonetimer on Nov 2, 2009 12:42 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I think Alzner could be a huge help by the end of this season/playoffs, but it ain’t gonna happen if he spends most of the year stuck in HER.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
by J.P. on Nov 2, 2009 1:10 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I agree. I think by Thanksgiving he’ll probably have learned all the lessons the AHL has to teach him. Then it’ll be time to let him start applying that knowledge to the faster and more skilled players in the NHL. He’s going to have some growing pains, but I’d rather him start getting them out of the way now. If we’re forced to suffer through inconsistent D and bone head mistakes then I’d at least like those mistakes to be made by someone that is going to learn from them.
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 1:20 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Right. Not to mention that the guy he credits with being a huge help to him transitioning to the pro game is no longer in Hershey but now in Washington (Bob Woods, of course). Karl should be too.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
by J.P. on Nov 2, 2009 1:23 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
These are excellent points. I’m not troubled with growing pains in the regs, but 50 NHL games is enough of a litmus test to see if he’s seaworthy for the second season. A few bridges to cross before we get there though…
Meanwhile, we can dream of
Alzner-Green
Schultz-Carlson
Orlov-Mo (or something)
(with Snarl as the 7th)
by bigonetimer on Nov 2, 2009 2:09 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I thought Orlov and Carlson were partners?
by red army line on Nov 2, 2009 2:19 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Orlov is in Russia.
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 2:23 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
No, at dev camp, the future pairing.
by red army line on Nov 3, 2009 7:39 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Doubt it, but you can dream.
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 10:10 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Agreed. Feels like he’s in HER just b/c of the plethora of replacement level guys ahead of him in DC and GMGM’s understandable unwillingness to let them go for nothing. But some of them were obtained for nothing, so GMGM should get Karl up here where he can learn: he’s got more upside than any of them.
by CarlosLA on Nov 2, 2009 2:36 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
To me, it seems like the big thing this team has a problem doing is keeping late leads. That comes down to coaching, plain and simple. I heard Locker mention that Bruce wants this team to be the 80’s Oilers, where they run up the score on teams late, always keeping the foot on the pedal offensively. That doesnt win you games in the playoffs and as we’re seeing, it loses you games in the regular season. It just doesnt work in todays NHL. This team needs to be taught how to shut teams down defensively with strong neutral zone play. I know its boring to watch and its not quite “unleashing the fury”, but its how you win games in the NHL, get the lead, keep the lead. Expand the lead when the opportunity presents itself, but dont take gigantic risks with less than 2 minutes left.
by DonCaps819 on Nov 2, 2009 9:45 AM EST reply actions 0 recs
Further to the coaching/late leads point, I think Bruce has to do a bit more faceoff management late (i.e. have Steckel out for just about every D-draw), and he has to impress upon every guy on the team (read: Mike Green) that they have to be aware of the time and the situation and not pinch on a high-risk play.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
by J.P. on Nov 2, 2009 9:47 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
You wanting be talking about his curious decision to send Backstrom out late in the third to take that defensive zone faceoff which he promptly lost and was imediately turned into a Columbus goal, would you?
by b.orr4 on Nov 2, 2009 10:06 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Epic typing fail. That’s “wouldn’t be” not “wanting”.
by b.orr4 on Nov 2, 2009 10:08 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Well, it’s the obvious and glaring example, but it’s far from an isolated one.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
by J.P. on Nov 2, 2009 10:08 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Won Cups for the Oilers and the Pens. The big difference being that those teams were actually able to continue to score late in games. I’m a big defense first guy in general in all sports, but in this case the system isn’t the problem. It’s the players and a coach who seemingly won’t make the hard decisions that are needed at times.
A man gotta have a code
by CP2Devil on Nov 2, 2009 9:55 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I’m not for changing the system, but I think Bruce can be a little better at managing ice time, etc., within that system.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
by J.P. on Nov 2, 2009 9:57 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I think Bruce can be a little better at managing ice time, etc., within that system.
Totally agree. That is what I meant by “won’t make hard decisions that are needed at times”.
A man gotta have a code
by CP2Devil on Nov 2, 2009 10:01 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Exactly, we change the system and we get Glen Hanlon all over again. Im not for changing the system either, however a change in the way we play late would do wonders for this team.
by DonCaps819 on Nov 2, 2009 10:02 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
The question is, what more can Bruce do? How many times can he tell them to be more careful with the puck, to stop taking dumb penalties and to backcheck? He’s been preaching those things for a while now.
It’s becoming more and more evident that roster changes need to be made, because some of the current players may never get it.
by Kolzilla on Nov 2, 2009 10:33 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
(I should expand on this by saying small-to-medium tweaks should probably be made, not that the core should be broken up or anything)
by Kolzilla on Nov 2, 2009 10:37 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
The question is, what more can Bruce do? How many times can he tell them to be more careful with the puck, to stop taking dumb penalties and to backcheck?
Well, putting Steckel or Backstrom out for a draw is Bruce’s call. And reinforcing how to play certain situations is Bruce’s job. If he can’t figure out how to get through to guys, he shouldn’t be playing those guys at key times.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
by J.P. on Nov 2, 2009 10:38 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I think Bruce uses late-game play as a reward a little too often. Think Boyd Gordon in the shootout..
Maybe play with an edge, be a little more physical -- maybe be more of a prick out there.
by jordanDC on Nov 2, 2009 10:40 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I’m with you guys here, he can do a little better from a game management standpoint. As far as whether he can get certain guys to play differently by yelling at them? I’m starting to think that’s never going to happen.
by Kolzilla on Nov 2, 2009 10:42 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
he can preach it, but my question is, do they practice it? Do they gameplan for late game situations, or is it just win the draw and go? Im not sure the answer to this, but lately its not showing this is so.
by DonCaps819 on Nov 2, 2009 11:03 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
He can in the words of a certain band from England use “Action! Not Words”.
A man gotta have a code
by CP2Devil on Nov 2, 2009 11:21 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
You know, I wouldn’t half mind seeing them try to go to the trap against the lesser teams in the league (while splitting up the Care Bears). I figure any way to teach them to compete for 60 mins (or more, if required) a night is worth any short-term loss in light of the long-term gain.
by red army line on Nov 2, 2009 11:02 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Of course, come playoff time and games against better teams, no trap, use BB’s style of play combined with the trap work-ethic. And if there’s 30 secs left in a period and the Caps have the 3rd/4th line out there the trap could slow down the opposition. Well, not the conventional trap. Guys like Juice are too slow to recover. But some lower-skilled system.
by red army line on Nov 2, 2009 11:04 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
therein lies the problem with a coach who "doesn’t match lines
by bigonetimer on Nov 2, 2009 11:28 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
IMG has signed Ovie. Interesting. Lindsay Applebaum posted it at CI.
IMG Worldwide, the premier global sports, media and entertainment company, announced today that it has signed hockey superstar Alex Ovechkin, for exclusive worldwide management, sponsorship, licensing and marketing representation.
Ovechkin, the 24 year-old Washington Capitals left wing, is one of the most talented and exciting players in the game today. Since bursting onto the scene in 2005, he has taken the NHL by storm, winning the Hart Memorial Trophy for Most Valuable Player for the past two seasons. He has also won the Lester B Pearson Award for 2008 and 2009 naming him MVP as voted on by his fellow players. He is only the fourth player in history to score more than 200 goals in the first four years of his career joining hockey icons Wayne Gretzky, Mario Lemieux and Mike Bossy. In July of this year, he was named “Official Ambassador” to the 2014 Winter Olympics in Sochi, Russia.
“We are very pleased to welcome Alex to the global team at IMG,” said David Abrutyn, IMG’s Senior Vice President and Managing Director of Global Consulting. “He is clearly one of the world’s greatest athletes and one of the NHL’s brightest stars. His electrifying play and charismatic personality will make him one of the most sought after athletes for companies and brands to grow their business. We are looking forward to working with Alex and his family, the Capitals and NHL to build the Ovechkin brand and the game of hockey around the world.”
by RedBirdie on Nov 2, 2009 10:49 AM EST reply actions 0 recs
An excellent choice. He can truly have international reach with IMG given their history/experience. Not a North American only focused management group like others.
A man gotta have a code
by CP2Devil on Nov 2, 2009 11:27 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
AO’s a smart guy. Deals directly with the man he already knows (GMGM) and saves a ton of coin by locking in his long term contract without an agent. Then he hires a major agency to represent him in endorsement deals. Well done.
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 11:30 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
IMG is looking pretty sharp as well—they’ve got a global presence for the next 15 years/4 Olympics.
by bigonetimer on Nov 2, 2009 2:15 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
here’s the full release from IMG.
Anyone know what other hockey players IMG represents?
by RedBirdie on Nov 2, 2009 11:48 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
apparently none.
Fight, you time-wasting figure skaters!
by boutros23 on Nov 2, 2009 12:50 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Can that be true? Hm.
“Face of the league” < Barrier-busting representative of the sport to an audience that has never taken much notice of it before.
"Camaraderie, that's what the Washington Capitals are all about."
by CapitalCentre on Nov 2, 2009 1:13 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Really? I find that hard to believe. They have represented hockey players in the past including Malkin.
A man gotta have a code
by CP2Devil on Nov 2, 2009 1:26 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
It looks like I’m behind on my agent consolidation moves. I hadn’t realized CAA had raided IMG a number of years back. Maybe he is their only hockey client now.
A man gotta have a code
by CP2Devil on Nov 2, 2009 1:36 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
based on what I’ve dug up, its only Ovie. And Ovie doesn’t need an agent for contract negotiations, this is strictly about furthering his world wide sports superstardom, and IMG is damn good at that.
by RedBirdie on Nov 2, 2009 2:30 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Flashback to the Sharapova ESPN Magazine thing:
Ovechkin recognized the name IMG because the agency works with Russian-born tennis star Maria Sharapova.
"I don’t know her personally, but looking forward to meeting her," Ovechkin said. "She is a great athlete, and I would like to work with that group."
http://washington.bizjournals.com/washington/stories/2009/11/02/daily8.html
by gfcaps fan on Nov 2, 2009 2:45 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Smart Ovie. No contract negotiations for a very long time, all his off-ice buisiness in the hands of a premier agency, all he has to do is heal up his shoulder, play world-class hockey, and show up on time for the photo sessions.
Speaking of which, here’s a random pic of Ovie from Saturday at the Chantilly signing event. I believe the going rate for an OV signature at that event was $125 (and you’d get varly for free!), and now I’m thinking he was a bargain. Look at that smile.
IS PAЯTY NOW
by Your Nation's Capital on Nov 2, 2009 2:52 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Washington Business Journal takes note.
IMG, which has no other hockey clients, plans to look for endorsement opportunities for Ovechkin in the U.S., Canada, Russia and other countries where hockey is popular. The agency hopes to position him as a "player of the people" and emphasize his passion for the sport when it meets with marketers, said Brad Pelletier, senior vice president and managing director of IMG Canada.
"We are going to put together an entire brand plan, as we do for all athletes of his stature," said David Abrutyn, global head of IMG Consulting. "I think as an instinctive starting point we would look at companies and brands that are consistent with his lifestyle and who he is as a person and a player."
Abrutyn, who doesn’t typically represent athletes, is making an exception for Ovechkin because of his previous hockey experience as an NHL and Capitals employee in the 1990s. He will represent Ovechkin in the U.S. and abroad, while Pelletier, who works with NBA point guard Steve Nash and golfer Mike Weir, will represent Ovechkin in Canada.
Andrey Deyneko, head of IMG’s Moscow office, and Alan Zucker, IMG’s Cleveland-based marketing agent whose specialty is working with superstar athletes such as Peyton and Eli Manning, will support the pair.
IS PAЯTY NOW
by Your Nation's Capital on Nov 2, 2009 3:43 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
and Wysh gives us his take. Highlights:
IMG Worldwide, one of the most powerful sports and entertainment marketing agencies on the planet, believes its newest client Alex Ovechkin’s(notes) celebrity has transcended the sport of hockey….
To some, the news that Ovechkin has signed with IMG will be a blip on the radar, a brief note in the business section. To hockey fans, it should mean something much, much more significant: It’s a premier marketing company indicating that the NHL has potentially produced its first global crossover superstar since former IMG client Wayne Gretzky.
IMG Hockey was a division of the company that used to have a presence in both marketing and player representation, including Gretzky. The hockey division is now CAA’s hockey division, and Ovechkin is the first hockey client for IMG in the last three years….
From a “global superstar” perspective, Ovechkin is positioned uniquely as an athlete whose celebrity in Eastern Europe and North America is growing by the season.
“If you look at other sports … if you look at Yao Ming and where he’s from, and what other NBA players from other countries have accomplished as well as golfers and tennis players, Alex is positioned to have success in North America and in other hockey countries,” said Abrutyn.
Anyone know Ovie’s status in places like Sweden and the Czech Republic?
by RedBirdie on Nov 2, 2009 4:12 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Swedes have been blogging and tweeting up a storm about OV’s injury, so they’re on board. Surely the Czechs anren’t far behind.
IS PAЯTY NOW
by Your Nation's Capital on Nov 2, 2009 4:14 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Steinz sorta-but-not-really stopped obsessing about the redskins long enough to call out Rolling Stone on dissing the Capitals.
by RedBirdie on Nov 2, 2009 11:23 AM EST reply actions 0 recs
I noticed Joe Finley is listed as a defensemen on the Stingray’s website.
"And next year it will be ours."
by Ovechwin on Nov 2, 2009 3:28 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
niiiiiiiiice. I’m headed out for an ECHL roadtrip during the first week of Olympic break. Stingrays are the last game we have scheduled.
by RedBirdie on Nov 2, 2009 3:51 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I need to stop reading the puck daddy comments section. It only makes me feel stabby.
"And next year it will be ours."
by Ovechwin on Nov 2, 2009 4:16 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
Yeah.. some of the things said about Mike Green, I didn’t know whether to get angry or laugh.
Maybe play with an edge, be a little more physical -- maybe be more of a prick out there.
by jordanDC on Nov 2, 2009 4:18 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
reading PD comments makes me very sad for the future of humanity.
Then I come here and feel better.
by RedBirdie on Nov 2, 2009 4:20 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
oh, but if you are this PD commenter: “There are Ovie haters? I mean, I’m a die-hard Flyers fan and I love what he’s done for hockey. It can only grow the sport. He’s a once-in-a-generation talent. Good for him, and good for hockey.” (complete with flyers logo avatar), I like you! Damn, how did someone who can actually string together a coherent sentence make it through to the comments section?
by RedBirdie on Nov 2, 2009 4:22 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Obligatory: Or become a Flyers fan?
"Camaraderie, that's what the Washington Capitals are all about."
by CapitalCentre on Nov 2, 2009 8:16 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I actually have a dear friend who is a Flyers fan, who can not only string together a sentence, but also hates Pronger. And loves Ovie. Its strange.
by RedBirdie on Nov 3, 2009 11:13 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Then go read the comments at SteinBog re: the IMG deal, you’ll feel much better:
Somewhere, there’s a little boy named Sidney crying in his race car bed. =(
Posted by: LeftCoastCapsFan | November 2, 2009
IS PAЯTY NOW
by Your Nation's Capital on Nov 2, 2009 4:19 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Comments For This Post Are Closed
Secondary Sidebar
Related FanPosts on Japers' Rink
Related FanShots on Japers' Rink
FanPosts
Community blog posts and discussion.
Recent FanPosts
FanShots
Quick hits of video, photos, quotes, chats, links and lists that you find around the web.
Recent FanShots
Southeast Standings
| GP | W | L | OTL | PT | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Washington
|
70 | 47 | 14 | 9 | 103 |
|
Atlanta
|
69 | 29 | 29 | 11 | 69 |
|
Tampa Bay
|
69 | 28 | 29 | 12 | 68 |
|
Florida
|
68 | 28 | 30 | 10 | 66 |
|
Carolina
|
69 | 28 | 33 | 8 | 64 |
(updated 3.17.2010 at 8:57 AM EDT)
The Vault
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.
