The "Risk" of Alex Ovechkin
by Becca H on Nov 5, 2009 3:30 PM EST
130 comments
For years we've dealt with people like Don Cherry decrying the physical, in-your-face style practiced by our very own Alex Ovechkin. It seems we get a new rant every week about how Ovechkin's going to get "cut down" because he plays with - and right on - the edge.
We're still waiting for it to happen, and it's not like other teams haven't had a chance. The fact that he's gone four years and change without all that many attempts on his life would seem to tell a different tale; the fact that most players in the league probably respect and/or fear Ovechkin enough to not try it would seem to show that his "edge" is just fine with them.
It gets old, to say the least.
But now with #8 sidelined with an injury, this story takes on a new twist and a new camp becomes vocal - we'll call it the "Rick DiPietro" defense, and it's mouthpiece is, if you can believe it, PJ Stock.
See, he believes that this injury is an omen, that the Caps are handcuffed by Ovechkin's long-term, multi-million dollar deal. After all, Ovechkin plays a physical style; he's injured right now. Ergo, his physical style will lead to multiple injuries which will lead the Caps to wish they'd never signed this horrific albatross of a contract.
"It's not this particular injury that is my concern. It is injury number seven in year four that slows him down a bit. An injury that slows him down enough for the organization to question his worth. An injury that slows him down enough for fans and media to question his worth."
Please don't let the facts get in the way of a good story, PJ. (By the way, did you really write this earlier this week, or have you had it sitting on the shelf, ready to go, like a pre-written obituary?)
Question his worth? Ovechkin's style is part of what we love about him, not what we fear. It's not likely that even a single fan is sitting around wringing their hands, worrying about his fragility because of one fluke injury. There are guys around the league with shorter deals whose tendency to bruise like a peach would make their contracts seem far more risky.
Alex Ovechkin is now in his fifth year as an NHL pro. He's appeared in three strenuous, physical playoff series. He rarely takes off a shift or passes up a chance to hit someone. And in that time, while playing like a man possessed, a bull in a china shop, a freak of nature - he has missed exactly three games due to injury.
Even with this injury there's nothing concrete; we don't know the extent of it, or the number of games it will cause him to miss. He has missed one this season, looks poised to miss two more this weekend, and then? No one knows. It all just seems a little soon to declare Ovechkin to be a long-term bust.
"I love the Great 8 but am concerned for the Capitals in the long run."
Long-term contracts are always risky and will always be risky. Sometimes they work out and sometimes they don't - you can point to Rick DiPietro's glass everything as concrete proof that sometimes they really don't work out. But to say that one injury is a sign that the Caps will regret this contract is to ignore the facts. Because everyone knows the style of game Ovechkin plays - it wasn't a mystery when the Caps inked him to thirteen years and it's not a mystery now.
Could this style eventually lead to more injuries and more missed time by the Russian winger? Of course. Is there also the possibility that, as he develops and matures, the physical aspect will become more fine-tuned and less "hit what moves"? Of course.
And if given the chance, even with this injury, do we think the Caps would make the same deal all over again?
Of course.
Because high risk, higher reward is the Capital way - and you won't find someone with much more potential reward than Alex Ovechkin.
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I am not worried in the least about Ovie or the contract. What hogwash by Stock (and the similar stories that will surely follow).
just wanted to point out that one of those games missed to injury was due to that freak puck hitting his heel in practice accident. Injury, sure, but not an injury suffered because of the way he plays the game.
by RedBirdie on Nov 5, 2009 3:35 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
Hogwash is a nice way to put it. Ovie’s contract is not even close to being on the list of worrisome contracts.
Fight, you time-wasting figure skaters!
by boutros23 on Nov 5, 2009 3:44 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
True story. Not sure if anyone noticed, but the Ranger in that picture above is Marian Gaborik.
….not that I’m implying anything about ol’ Marian’s fortitude, mind you.
by Becca H on Nov 5, 2009 4:00 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I hadn’t noticed, but nice work. It’s a damn shame about Marian.
"Let the rest be scared of us." - Sasha Semin
by Scott in Shaw on Nov 5, 2009 5:02 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I agree. It’s a loss for the entire sport. He’s a really amazing talent.
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 5, 2009 5:05 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Seriously. If he played a full season he would challenge for a Richard Trophy.
"Let the rest be scared of us." - Sasha Semin
by Scott in Shaw on Nov 5, 2009 5:06 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Did I miss something? I thought he was back playing. Is he hurt again, or is this just the general direction of the conversation when it comes to Gaborik?
by gfcaps fan on Nov 5, 2009 5:12 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
General health conversation.
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 5, 2009 5:14 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
He really is kind of electric – I had to admit that when we played the Rangers earlier this year. Didn’t get to see it as much when he was in Minnesota but he’s got that ability to take over a game that Ovie has, albeit at a slightly lower skill level.
Not knocking him, of course, #8’s just on a different playing field.
by Becca H on Nov 5, 2009 5:12 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
His idol growing up was Peter Bondra. He’s OK by me.
Maybe play with an edge, be a little more physical -- maybe be more of a prick out there.
by jordanDC on Nov 5, 2009 6:10 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Actually, i think Gaborik has a higher “skill level” than Ovechkin does, but Ovie is a better player by dint of his ability to read the soft spots, then slide into them and his physical gifts.
I was pimping Gaborik pretty hard in one of the ranking threads in the off-season – I have a serious man-crush on his game. Speed, magical hands, great vision. His injury woes really are saddening.
by Knee high to a duck on Nov 5, 2009 6:15 PM EST up reply actions 1 recs
AO is probably not in the top 5 most skilled NHL players. Maybe not even top ten. But he’s the best player.
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 5, 2009 6:18 PM EST up reply actions 1 recs
I don’t know, Gaborik isn’t the kind of guy who takes over a game. Watching him with the Rangers this year, he rarely stands out as being all over the place constantly making places. But he is quietly sneaky and he has a wicked shot so when he gets his chances he buries them.
Of all our iniquities ignorance may be the worst
by Killer_Carlson on Nov 5, 2009 9:17 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
and he’s as fragile as they come. He makes Semin look durable.
by RedBirdie on Nov 5, 2009 9:19 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
In fact, none of the injuries have really been a result of his physical style – groin injuries happen to everyone and that heel thing was freaky. This one can only loosely be related because Chimera’s a big baby who can’t handle being hit cleanly like a man.
by Becca H on Nov 5, 2009 3:45 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Precisely. And since we’ll never know exactly what happened, it’s just as likely he caused it himself by the shoving.
by gfcaps fan on Nov 5, 2009 3:48 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
A never-was like PJ Stock will never understand the will and durability of an Alex Ovechkin.
Russian Machine very rarely breaks.
by macvechkin on Nov 5, 2009 4:02 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
And one of them was a spear to the ’nads. Not an injury from a legit hockey play.
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 5, 2009 4:37 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Yay for Alex Ovechkin. We’ve got your back, AO – don’t change a thing.
And yay for more CapsChick content. Rec’d!
IS ЯEST & ЯEHAB NOW
by Your Nation's Capital on Nov 5, 2009 3:43 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
If AO was Canadian, they’d call him “Iginla.”
by TylerG on Nov 5, 2009 3:49 PM EST reply actions 2 recs
Rec’d both for being the honest truth and for comparing Ovie to one of my all-time favorite players.
by Becca H on Nov 5, 2009 3:51 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
If Ovie was Canadian, Bettman would have fixed last season for the Caps to win!
by RedBirdie on Nov 5, 2009 3:53 PM EST up reply actions 1 recs
calm down, I’m just have a little fun.
by RedBirdie on Nov 5, 2009 4:06 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Hey, made me laugh…and that’s really what it’s all about, right? You all aim to provide me with entertainment :)
Not being at work has made me comment-happy today. Effing swine flu.
by Becca H on Nov 5, 2009 4:11 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I consider that my job here. I don’t have the math sense nor the hockey knowledge that some of y’all have, so I just have to stick with the trying to make people laugh. Oh, and continuing to perform my duties as High Empress of the Tyler Sloan Lobby (now taking applications for minions!)
by RedBirdie on Nov 5, 2009 4:18 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Have I shown you my 2005 NHL Draft Consipriacy Theory? Come have a look at this…
Russian Machine very rarely breaks.
by macvechkin on Nov 5, 2009 4:23 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Now, that one I suspect has many members…..
by gfcaps fan on Nov 5, 2009 5:03 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Minions? For the Tyler Sloan Lobby?
I’d love to! :-) Consider this my application. :-)
by IRockTheRed on Nov 6, 2009 10:42 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Knowing the etymology of the word ‘minion’ makes me giggle.
by Knee high to a duck on Nov 6, 2009 2:41 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
well, will you be a giggling minion?
by RedBirdie on Nov 6, 2009 3:32 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Not a huge fan, but I’m not a huge detractor, either. Color me neutral.
by Knee high to a duck on Nov 6, 2009 3:41 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Ptephen Seat?
Oh wait, wrong thread…
"And next year it will be ours."
by Ovechwin on Nov 5, 2009 4:00 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
Two Points
1. Comparing him to DiPietro is dumb because DiPietro doesn’t count against the cap as long as he is on LTIR. The Capitals would in no way be hindered cap-wise by any long-term injuries.
2. I wouldn’t discount the possibility of long-term injuries cause by his style of play just because it hasn’t happened. Wendel Clark isn’t known as the greatest hockey player on the planet outside of Toronto because of the numerous injuries his awesomeness inflicted on his mortal frame.
Pension Plan Puppets: A Toronto Maple Leafs blog and a group therapy session.
by PPP on Nov 5, 2009 4:04 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
It’s shocking to me that anyone with as keen a hockey mind as PJ Stock would say something stupid but…there you go. (Although I actually kind of like him on HNIC because he’s stupidly entertaining. Or entertaining in his stupidity. One or the other.)
And #2 is a fair point, but I don’t think anyone is discounting the possibility – we’re all aware of the way he plays and the risk that goes with it.
I think it’s just the sense that the Caps should be fearful of locking down their franchise player, in a deal that makes a statement both to the fans and the league. because there’s a chance he might not play the whole time. If he’ll take that chance, and the Caps take that chance, I’m on board.
by Becca H on Nov 5, 2009 4:10 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
As you point out, part of that outlay isn’t as much for his services as it is payment for the fan base. Ted and GMGM are not stupid people; you know they’ve had those thoughts.
by gfcaps fan on Nov 5, 2009 5:05 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I don’t even think it’s a risk other than a financial one. Unless there is actually a fixed budget (but these contracts have insurance) then there is no impact on the hockey side other than the loss of Ovie (which would be devastating) but the money could be used to try to replace some of him if he got hurt.
It’s a dumb argument all around by Stock.
Pension Plan Puppets: A Toronto Maple Leafs blog and a group therapy session.
by PPP on Nov 5, 2009 10:54 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
It’s a little awkward watching him skate with a busted wing tho.
Presumably the team is taking notice. Time to man up, gents.
IS ЯEST & ЯEHAB NOW
by Your Nation's Capital on Nov 5, 2009 4:12 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
Given the team’s (whole league’s really) penchant for releasing as little information about injuries as possible, i’m sure they’re thrilled about the existence of that video….
by TJA on Nov 5, 2009 4:31 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I thought about that actually…how it’s so great to have detective-like reporters trying to explain exactly what’s wrong with him. Not taking away from Tarik and Corey’s great writing, but…do we really want other teams to know what happened?
by KellyinDC on Nov 5, 2009 4:33 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Doesn’t seem like to big a deal to me. Who didn’t know he had a shoulder injury?
Russian Machine very rarely breaks.
by macvechkin on Nov 5, 2009 4:37 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
That’s a fair point, and I agree with you. Just thinking about the team’s reaction. Doesn’t really make sense to me, but they’re secretive to the point of absurdity sometimes. I’ve seen guys take a slapshot off the foot, limp to the bench on one skate and the team announces they’re out with a lower-body injury, when it’s pretty clear to anyone who saw it that the guy’s got a broken foot.
by TJA on Nov 5, 2009 4:42 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Maybe not with this particular case b/c we all knew what was wrong, but sometimes it’s annoying – like when one of them posted about Green wearing a knee brace.
At the same time, however…they work for their papers, not the team. Their only responsibility is to the Post and Times, just like Joe B tried to dig the nature of the injury out of Ovie last night because he works for Comcast, not the Caps.
I guess we should be glad that we have two great reporters like this covering the team and deal with the consequences, right?
by Becca H on Nov 5, 2009 4:48 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
But the beat reporters definitely consider the team’s feelings because they don’t want to hurt access. They had to know about Green’s weight issue last year but never said a word. Was it because their editors told them not to? Was it because the Caps told them not to? Or could it be because they just implicitly knew it would piss off the Caps and Green and they didn’t want to jeopardize their ability to get news from the team and players? However it went down they dropped the ball.
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 5, 2009 4:54 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
The team could hold a closed practice and/or told AO to stay off the ice. But they didn’t, and he didn’t, and when do we get to bid on the orange practice jersey worn by the injured Ovechkin?
IS ЯEST & ЯEHAB NOW
by Your Nation's Capital on Nov 5, 2009 4:56 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
actually, it was the Caps who shot that video. I followed the link from CI and got this: http://www.twitvid.com/9C69A
by RedBirdie on Nov 5, 2009 5:03 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Wait, what team has two “great reporters” covering it?
Reminds me: Who is the Caps’ PA rep? I haven’t read either of them say a word about the Oct. 31 election….
by TylerG on Nov 5, 2009 5:40 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Alright, easy now :P Tarik and Corey are better than what a lot of teams have.
The PA rep is Brooks Laich, isn’t it?
by Becca H on Nov 5, 2009 5:46 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
They are? I’ll give you Corey, but excepting the schtick of Larry Brooks, tell me who is less useful than Tarik?
And I don’t know. Despite the PA being a HUGE story, neither has said a word.
by TylerG on Nov 5, 2009 5:48 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I wouldn’t even know where to begin evaluating other teams’ beat writers but from my limited observations I think the guy in Miami does an admirable job covering the Panthers given everything he’s contending with, and Rich Hammond does a great job covering the LA Kings.
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 5, 2009 5:51 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Is he still working for the paper there too? I heard the team hired him.
Maybe play with an edge, be a little more physical -- maybe be more of a prick out there.
by jordanDC on Nov 5, 2009 6:12 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Something like that happened. I’m not sure what the exact relationship is. I remember the hullabaloo about how he wasn’t going to be impartial anymore yadda yadda. I don’t buy that stuff; I think he has done a solid job and will probably keep doing the same stuff.
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 5, 2009 6:16 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
George Richards (I believe) is the guy in FLA, and he’s fab. Guys like Portzline, Russo, Dupont all kill it.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
by J.P. on Nov 5, 2009 7:00 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Portzline is CBJ right? Russo is MIN? They’re solid from what I’ve seen. I don’t really care much about CBJ or MIN because they trap so I never watch them. I’ve had Rick Nash and some Wild on fantasy teams so that’s probably the only reason I’ve ever had to go check out CBJ or MIN news.
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 5, 2009 7:10 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Yep, and it’s a testament to their coverage that I follow their teams at all.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
by J.P. on Nov 5, 2009 8:33 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
In defense of Tarik, that guy really does work hard developing and contacting sources. He’s definitely from the New York Times school of thoroughness.
Mind you, his “hockey sense” could be a lot better. I love that in the Caps Report he’s often the butt of all the jokes because of the amazing things that come out of his mouth.
Atta dinnin stick a who!
by Gould Old Days on Nov 6, 2009 6:19 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
On the sources, I’m not so sure I agree (but would welcome some examples). From where I’m sitting, for example, I’d have liked to have seen more contact with Nylander’s agent throughout the current situation.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
by J.P. on Nov 6, 2009 7:34 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Actually, there was team video, too, although taken a little earlier in the skate.
by gfcaps fan on Nov 5, 2009 5:06 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
It’s funny – I thought all the panic about Ovi’s injury had faded and now it was just ‘return watch’…just goes to show that people will write anything for a page view.
Besides, isn’t Ovi’s physical play part of what earned him the contract in the first place? It was my understanding that his combination of physical play and scoring prowess makes him so special and deserving of a big contract. My bad. /snark
by KellyinDC on Nov 5, 2009 4:30 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
Some people are just haters
Besides, you can’t ask Ovie not to play the way he does. It’s part of him, and he’ll probably never stop playing like that
Dallas Stars 4 Life: Stars Blogging From Hockeyville, Iowa
by Brad_Richards_Rocks on Nov 5, 2009 4:34 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
Exactly! Ovie without the physical play isn’t Ovie, regardless of how much of a “risk” there is.
It’s part of him, and he’ll probably never stop playing like that
God, I hope not. What fun would that be? :P
by Becca H on Nov 5, 2009 4:51 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
about as much fun as watching a Lemaire Devils team!
by RedBirdie on Nov 5, 2009 4:53 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Yeah…it’s just really not okay that the Devil trap is still legally allowed to take place in a league that’s trying to increase the pace of the game. And you know a game is boring when the commentators don’t even try to hide their disgust for the pace (or lack thereof).
by Becca H on Nov 5, 2009 5:02 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I am really shocked and a little depressed that you can still trap so effectively without the two-line pass rule. I really thought that would make it too hard to do. Apparently I was wrong.
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 5, 2009 5:06 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I’m sure it’s still difficult. We’re just underestimating the … talent… that some coaches have when it comes to sucking the life out of a game.
by Steckel Me Elmo on Nov 5, 2009 5:44 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I’m not sure which announcers you are talking about, but I assume you mean Joe B and Locker because Emerick and Chico never have anything bad to say about the trap. In fact, one of my least favorite things about Emerick is how every time another team plays a remotely defensive game he harps on it as though it justifies the Devils’ excruciating style of play.
Of all our iniquities ignorance may be the worst
by Killer_Carlson on Nov 5, 2009 9:40 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Oh, it was definitely Joe B. and Locker; sorry, should have clarified. I can’t count the number of times they joked about falling asleep or needing No-Doz or something during last night’s game! It would be funnier if it wasn’t true…
And I will never understand why people love Doc so much. There are many, many things about him that bug me to no end.
by Becca H on Nov 5, 2009 10:14 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I think someone needs another BIG DRIVE!!!!!
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 6, 2009 1:07 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Best part about Emrick’s commentary is when he shuts up after a goal the Caps score.
by red army line on Nov 6, 2009 7:31 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Most annoying, grating voice in hockey.
Maybe play with an edge, be a little more physical -- maybe be more of a prick out there.
by jordanDC on Nov 6, 2009 8:28 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I pine for Gary Thorne.
Russian Machine very rarely breaks.
by macvechkin on Nov 6, 2009 11:13 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
he usually does Frozen Four. (and there’s always orioles games!)
by RedBirdie on Nov 6, 2009 11:18 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Not much for baseball, thanks. Something about the top team spending 50% more than the second highest, and 150% more than the median makes me think the whole setup is fraudulent.
Then again I have been accused of being a curmudgeon.
Russian Machine very rarely breaks.
by macvechkin on Nov 6, 2009 11:24 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Something about 1/3 of the league not making the playoffs in at least a decade turns me off. I swear I wanted to sock Tom Ostertag in the face when he lauded the “competitive balance” of MLB for a full hour.
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 6, 2009 11:34 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
ah, but its Gary Thorne! And Jim Palmer has been known to go off his meds are start going off on pitchers, catchers, umpires, and managers at the most random times.
by RedBirdie on Nov 6, 2009 11:49 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I always like Palmer and Flanny doing color. This doesn’t change that at all!
Russian Machine very rarely breaks.
by macvechkin on Nov 6, 2009 11:54 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
At Orioles fan fest this past season, someone asked Palmer in one of the discussion panels if it was really necessary for him to talk so much if we can see what’s happening on the TV. I thought it was pretty funny.
"If you're gonna die after 24, might as well jump out at 23:59, no?"
by Laich It Or Lump It on Nov 6, 2009 12:22 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Given the Caps’ tendency to not be able to hold leads, I think the Devils frankly have the right idea. They generally stay in contention even in circumstances where everyone was ready to give up on them — as when Brodeur was injured last year.
Maybe what the Caps should do is play their normal style for the first 2 periods but if they start the 3rd period with a lead or get a goal in third period, then then should go to the trap.
We should learn from the Devils.
by CapsFan75 on Nov 5, 2009 5:46 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Fuck the trap. Always. Don’t even bring it up for the Caps. You don’t pay a guy 9 mill per to trap. And last year, even without Brodeur, the Devilzzzzz didn’t trap. Sutter had them play hockey and it was fun. Too often coaches think you have to compensate for a questionable goalie or limited offensive power by trapping.
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 5, 2009 5:52 PM EST up reply actions 1 recs
Trap sucks. Want to protect a lead? Get the puck in the offensive zone and grind it out in the corners.
Maybe play with an edge, be a little more physical -- maybe be more of a prick out there.
by jordanDC on Nov 5, 2009 6:13 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Exactly. Play safe, but don’t trap. Keep the puck, play below the face off dots in the other end. Don’t drop pass at the bluelines (as if that’s ever a good idea) and don’t make risky plays with the puck. You don’t have to sit four guys on the redline. The Isles went into that mode and that is pretty much the only reason we were able to comeback.
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 5, 2009 6:17 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Don’t drop pass at the bluelines
BMo has been mostly good, but this drives me up the wall every time I see it. That and blind passes from the dot to the slot in our D zone. He’s going to give me a coronary.
by Knee high to a duck on Nov 5, 2009 6:21 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Steckel has been trying it a lot. It hasn’t been working.
Maybe play with an edge, be a little more physical -- maybe be more of a prick out there.
by jordanDC on Nov 5, 2009 6:29 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
One way or another, the Caps need to learn how to protect leads. Since their track record in that department is so bad, they need to play more conservatively in the third period and practice the things needed to learn how to protect things.
I wouldn’t want them to do what the Isles do (4 guys on the red line.)
But they need to do something now.
by CapsFan75 on Nov 5, 2009 6:23 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Yeah, they need to protect leads, but it doesn’t necessarily follow that they need to play a different system. If by “conservative” you just mean playing the same system but don’t try some high difficulty/high risk passes that you try early in the game, I agree. But if conservative means "one guy on the forecheck and everyone else sit back and try to resist wave after wave of attack, I agree. The reality is the majority of our lost leads have been aided by stupid penalties. We could play the exact same way we play all game and protect the leads if we didn’t take penalties in the last 5-10 minutes of the third.
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 5, 2009 6:31 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Want to protect a lead?
Make it bigger.
Atta dinnin stick a who!
by Gould Old Days on Nov 6, 2009 6:21 AM EST up reply actions 6 recs
Rec’d for simplicity, truth, and “That’s what she said” factor.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
by J.P. on Nov 6, 2009 7:35 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Was anyone crying about how PHI was going to regret the deal when the Ontario Angel had two serious shoulder injuries last spring?
Didn’t think so. Move along folks, nothing to see here.
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 5, 2009 4:37 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
To be fair, no one cries about stupid things Philly does.
by Becca H on Nov 5, 2009 5:02 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
in fact, we all sort of take perverse joy.
by RedBirdie on Nov 5, 2009 5:05 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I’d be lying if I wasn’t a little worried about Ovechkin’s physical style taking a toll on him as he enters his 30’s, but we have a while before we seriously need to worry about it
Because now I can justify browsing and commenting during the work day with the argument that I am promoting my business.
by Sombrero Guy on Nov 5, 2009 5:59 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
Agreed, it may be an issue down the road, but the Caps will have frankly gotten all the value they could expect to get out of the contract at that point anyway.
I could see this article being justified if Ovie were more seriously hurt as a result of retaliatory play or if, you know, he wasn’t pretty much the most durable superstar in the NHL by the numbers even if/when he misses a couple of weeks due to this.
by grapejoos on Nov 5, 2009 6:38 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
It’s better to burn out than to fade away.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
by J.P. on Nov 5, 2009 7:02 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
That’s why G’n’R > Metallica, IMO.
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 5, 2009 7:11 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Axl Rose is doing his level best to fade away, but there has to be some luminescence in order to pull that off.
by Knee high to a duck on Nov 5, 2009 7:13 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Chinese Democracy disagrees.
"If you're gonna die after 24, might as well jump out at 23:59, no?"
by Laich It Or Lump It on Nov 5, 2009 7:50 PM EST up reply actions 1 recs
I’ve ignored it. Spaghetti Incident too. But the sheer volume of garbage that Metallica has put out since the Black album makes it no contest as far as who burned out and who faded away. Sure, it’s perverse to give G’n’R credit because Axl Rose is such a gigantic asshole, but that’s just how I come down on it. First 4 against first 4 though… that’s a tough call.
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 5, 2009 8:04 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
For what it’s worth, I really like Death Magnetic. Load through St. Anger however are complete crap. If we’re talking burning out before fading away, I’d nominate Nirvana. Look at what happened to every other grunge band since.
"If you're gonna die after 24, might as well jump out at 23:59, no?"
by Laich It Or Lump It on Nov 5, 2009 8:12 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
yeah, but live Pearl Jam…………….oh man, still a great show.
by RedBirdie on Nov 5, 2009 8:24 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I never liked much by them besides Ten, but to each his/her own.
"If you're gonna die after 24, might as well jump out at 23:59, no?"
by Laich It Or Lump It on Nov 5, 2009 8:27 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
First 4 against first 4 though… that’s a tough call.
No it’s not. In that scenario Metallica absolutely blows away G’n’R. It’s not even close.
Of all our iniquities ignorance may be the worst
by Killer_Carlson on Nov 5, 2009 9:44 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Hard to say. Appetite may be the single greatest debut record ever. Lies doesn’t really count as a full album. Illusions should have been edited down to one album’s worth of absolute brilliance. So G’n’r’s first four is really like three-and-a-half at most and should’ve been 2.5.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
by J.P. on Nov 6, 2009 7:37 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I can agree with that. From the standpoint of “which do you still listen to ~20 years after they released” it’s tough for me. I only really listen to Ride the Lightning and Master of Puppets and a few select tracks from …And Justice for All by Metallica (don’t listen to Kill ‘em All much but do appreciate it). For G’n’R I listen to the good parts of Illusion and Appetite and a couple songs from Lies. That’s why I say it’s a tough call.
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 6, 2009 9:35 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I’m old fashioned in that I prefer to listen to music as an album rather than skip around between various songs.
Given that premise, I can listen straight through every Metallica album from Kill ‘Em All to the black album. On the GNR side of the coin, I can listen to all of Appetite, and various tracks off the following albums. I’d have to go with Metallica in this case.
"If you're gonna die after 24, might as well jump out at 23:59, no?"
by Laich It Or Lump It on Nov 6, 2009 9:57 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I’m actually a full album guy myself as well. But with iPods it’s easy to just excise a song you don’t like and pretend it never happened (Get in the Ring and My World). A lot of it comes down to mood for me.
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 6, 2009 10:09 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Aye.
And sometimes you just need to cut to the chase and blast “Nighttrain.”
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
by J.P. on Nov 6, 2009 11:07 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
It’s largely for those reasons that I give the nod to Metallica. Ride the Lightning and Master of Puppets are two of the best metal albums ever, and Kill ’em All and Justice are both consistently solid.
Appetite for Destruction and the good parts of the Illusions can put up two amazing albums as well, but there is a lot more filler on the rest of the stuff in G’n’R’s first four releases. Then you get to the Spaghetti Incident…
Of all our iniquities ignorance may be the worst
by Killer_Carlson on Nov 6, 2009 12:52 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Spaghetti Incident = fail. But it wasn’t their material, so I can ignore it.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
by J.P. on Nov 6, 2009 12:59 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
You mean you didn’t like that song they did for the Mission Impossible soundtrack?
BLECH
Maybe play with an edge, be a little more physical -- maybe be more of a prick out there.
by jordanDC on Nov 6, 2009 8:30 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Contrast that to “You Could Be Mine” for T2… another GNR win.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
by J.P. on Nov 6, 2009 8:32 AM EST up reply actions 1 recs
I wouldn’t know cause I got kicked off Napster.
"If you're gonna die after 24, might as well jump out at 23:59, no?"
by Laich It Or Lump It on Nov 6, 2009 9:14 AM EST up reply actions 1 recs
Another Metallica loss.
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 6, 2009 9:36 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
In hindsight, that lawsuit seems laughable considering the quality (or lack thereof) of the song in question.
"If you're gonna die after 24, might as well jump out at 23:59, no?"
by Laich It Or Lump It on Nov 6, 2009 9:58 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
But how will Lars buy a shark tank if everyone keeps downloading free music?
by RedBirdie on Nov 6, 2009 10:09 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Easy. Just charge $100 a ticket for a concert at Verizon.
"If you're gonna die after 24, might as well jump out at 23:59, no?"
by Laich It Or Lump It on Nov 6, 2009 10:16 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Haha, yeah. I also can’t give the S&M album as much credit as it probably deserves because I think it’s criminal to put Battery on there instead of Fade to Black. Criminal.
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 6, 2009 10:10 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Oh man, the first three songs on that album are fantastic! Ecstasy of Gold straight into Call of the Ktulu straight into Master of Puppets. So good.
"If you're gonna die after 24, might as well jump out at 23:59, no?"
by Laich It Or Lump It on Nov 6, 2009 10:14 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
The start is awesome, but the rest of the concert is very inconsistent. In addition to the Battery/Fade to Black problem they also had some other poor choices such as Fuel. I will say though, that a lot of the crap from Load and Reload sounds a lot better with the orchestra.
Of all our iniquities ignorance may be the worst
by Killer_Carlson on Nov 6, 2009 12:57 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
to me, fuel is an example of a song that is infinitely improved by the orchestra baseline. i also discovered bleeding me through the S&M album, but was disappointed when i heard the original.
by Natty Bumppo on Nov 6, 2009 2:41 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Well, Fuel was improved, but mostly because the song completely sucked to begin with. I think there were better options to put on the album.
Completely agree about Bleeding Me. That song and Outlaw Torn are way better with the orchestra than the original.
Of all our iniquities ignorance may be the worst
by Killer_Carlson on Nov 6, 2009 3:00 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
While we’re on Fade to Black, when I’m in charge of arena music for an NHL team I’m playing Fade to Black after ever decisive fight.
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 6, 2009 2:56 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I went to a Maryland @ Rutgers football game a couple years ago and they played For Whom the Bell Tolls for every third down… that’s my favorite Metallica song and they completely ruined it for me.
"If you're gonna die after 24, might as well jump out at 23:59, no?"
by Laich It Or Lump It on Nov 6, 2009 5:31 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
There are a million and one reasons why G’n’R > Metallica, and they start and end with Slash.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
by J.P. on Nov 5, 2009 8:34 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Yup. That is an attractive man.
Atta dinnin stick a who!
by Gould Old Days on Nov 6, 2009 6:24 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
why is metallica > gNr? montreal, 1992.
by Natty Bumppo on Nov 5, 2009 10:28 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
My my, hey hey.
"If you're gonna die after 24, might as well jump out at 23:59, no?"
by Laich It Or Lump It on Nov 5, 2009 7:48 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I almost went there myself.
And that’s why Neil Young >>>>>>>> G’n’R > Metallica.
by grapejoos on Nov 5, 2009 8:24 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Is there also the possibility that, as he develops and matures, the physical aspect will become more fine-tuned and less “hit what moves”?
That quote made me laugh. Hit what moves is totally what he seems to do.
by Bman21212 on Nov 5, 2009 11:12 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
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Southeast Standings
| GP | W | L | OTL | PT | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Washington
|
21 | 13 | 4 | 4 | 30 |
|
Tampa Bay
|
19 | 8 | 4 | 7 | 23 |
|
Atlanta
|
18 | 10 | 6 | 2 | 22 |
|
Florida
|
19 | 8 | 9 | 2 | 18 |
|
Carolina
|
21 | 4 | 12 | 5 | 13 |
(updated 11.20.2009 at 9:16 AM EST)
Certain photos copyright © 2009 by Associated Press or Getty Images. Any commercial use or distribution without the express written consent of Associated Press and Getty Images is strictly prohibited.
