Game (7) Day - Penguins @ Capitals
by J.P. on May 13, 2009 7:00 AM EDT
184 comments
Can it really be just two weeks ago that we were basking in the glow of "the $4 million goal" that capped an almost unthinkable come-from-behind series win and preparing for the circus to come to town? (And what a circus it's been, complete with a ring master, acrobats, interesting animal acts, sideshows and, of course, plenty of clowns.)
Now, as we ready for the grand finale, we wonder what could possibly top what we've seen thus far - as close a series as one could imagine, with the stars leading the way (Alex Ovechkin's 13 points are a single-series high since before the lockout) and role players, well, playing their roles.
Will a new hero (or goat) emerge, or will the best player on the planet write yet another chapter in his already expansive book of greatness?
Will the game so overflow with excitement, tension and drama that sixty minutes simply won't be able to contain it?
Will the home ice advantage - a deafening sea of red - that made mid-winter games against division rivals worth fighting for provide the difference-making push when the tank is nearly on empty?
We wonder what's next (and last) in this truly epic series, how fittingly to cap this Greatest Show on Ice... and then we realize that we don't care. At all. That is, of course, so long as the right team wins.
As storybook as a Sergei Fedorov breakaway tally in overtime would be, we'll take a Shaone Morrisonn double-deflection past Marc-Andre Fleury to make it 4-0 late in the second period that puts the rest of the night on cruise control. As legend-building as another Simeon Varlamov stick save with a one-goal lead in the final minute of regulation would be, we'll certainly take a rocking chair night for the young netminder with nary a tough save to be made.
The first six games of this series have been more than any fan of the game could have realistically hoped for, and have led up to a marquee moment for the sport. But whether tonight's a Picasso or a P.O.S., we could care less as long as the guys in red end up with more goals than the guys in white. It's as simple as that. Win tonight - for the 33 seasons 95 games that came before it. Just win.
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First song on the music library shuffle this morning? “Tear the Roof Off the Sucker”
I always follow the advice of Funkadelic.
"Serious question: Is Ovie going to demand a trade if they lose this series? Any chance of this?"
by Bald Pollack on May 13, 2009 7:35 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
I heard that there was a crew of workmen at the Phone Booth today adding extra welds to the roof.
by jimmiebjr on May 13, 2009 11:49 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I believe + 1
Wish I could be at Verizon tonight, but I’ll be there in spirit (and in HD)!
by Sixstring59 on May 13, 2009 7:48 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Flashback
Flashback to before the start of this series:
“That (series against New York) wasn’t a circus,” Boudreau said. “It wasn’t Ringling Bros. We’re playing Pittsburgh. Welcome to the circus.” [also quoted by JP]
Fa shizzle. What a crazy run this has been!
Some serious inSEMINating of the Pens’ net tonight, please?! Don’t leave it all up to Ovie and Varly and secondary shooting. We need all the firepower possible tonight.
GO CAPS!
by localhead on May 13, 2009 7:49 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Don’t know if this is good or bad: I didn’t have good vibes at all going into game 6 (or during, either, but I wasn’t alone at that point). Today, I have nothing BUT good feelings about tonight.
The circus is leaving town tonight. Send the Penguins to the golf course with it.
This is going to be one really long day.
I believe!
by gfcaps fan on May 13, 2009 8:03 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
This is going to be a ridiculously long day. I don’t know if I can take the wait.
by DrinkingPartner on May 13, 2009 9:17 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Calder Cup
I can’t believe I checked the Hershey/W-B Scranton score this morning. 3-0 victory for the Bears!
by Tony_Fletcher on May 13, 2009 8:03 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
I really, really want to see the cameras tonight pan up to a box where the entire Bears team is crammed in. I’d love to see them at this game. And I think it’ll give the Caps a lift to see them there.
by Gould Old Days on May 13, 2009 9:24 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
that would be the coolest thing ever!
by kellobellow on May 13, 2009 10:07 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
So much excitment, too many emotions!
I think I’ll have to que up the ol’ herb brooks speech from miracle tonight before the game, always gets me pumped!!!
Let’s Go Caps! Take down the steel city kids!
Wether you think you can or you can't, you're right! - Stewie Griffin
by SoMD Capsfan on May 13, 2009 8:11 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
For all your inspirational speechifying needs…
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
by J.P. on May 13, 2009 8:13 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
And if that doesn’t help, this might.
"Serious question: Is Ovie going to demand a trade if they lose this series? Any chance of this?"
by Bald Pollack on May 13, 2009 8:16 AM EDT up reply actions 2 recs
hello neighbor. planning on losing my voice tonight.
by ns on May 13, 2009 8:36 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
most definitely will be hoarse at work tomorrow
by caps98fan on May 13, 2009 9:33 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Another neighbor in 414; we’ll be right there with ya! LET’S GO CAPS!!!
by capfan on May 13, 2009 9:13 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
paid a fortune, but i’ll be rockin the 411
by Scofield on May 13, 2009 10:13 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
“Red 5, standing by…”
405, that is. “4 TED!!!”
by war_capitals on May 13, 2009 10:41 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Can I do it for the team and not Ted? Because I really like the team.
/AD’d
"Serious question: Is Ovie going to demand a trade if they lose this series? Any chance of this?"
by Bald Pollack on May 13, 2009 11:02 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Sure… but Ted’s sorta like Father Christmas with all he’s put into this organization. I say it all starts from the top, look how quickly bad ownership sunk the once-proud Lightning franchise?
Hell, just scream your lungs out (as I’m sure you will)
“Grant me one request… grant me… REVENGE! (I already checked, no “Crom” speech to be had on YouTube, sadly, but would love to see it if someone else can locate it)
by war_capitals on May 13, 2009 12:06 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I can’t get it to embed, but here you are.
by jimmiebjr on May 13, 2009 12:32 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
thanks man!
They have GOT to send these guys to the golf course tonight, I can’t go through what we all went through last April
- again
by war_capitals on May 13, 2009 1:08 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
i wonder if the band outside the arena tonight can strike up a little “Anvil of Crom”?! SuperBadA$$!!!
by war_capitals on May 13, 2009 3:16 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Win one game. Do it -one- this time.
by PaintDrinkingPete on May 13, 2009 8:15 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Well, with the Bears over Baby Pens
Why even bother watching this one?
by :hsughrofl: on May 13, 2009 8:24 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
I can everyone right now that I am getting ZERO done at work today.
by PaintDrinkingPete on May 13, 2009 8:27 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Damn! Too excited to even type!
I can tell everyone right now that I am getting ZERO done at work today.
Fixed
by PaintDrinkingPete on May 13, 2009 8:40 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
i could barely get out of bed this morning…..now at work and sorta of “working”
by RedskinFan4Life on May 13, 2009 9:26 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Anyone who’s spending time here, like us, isn’t working :-).
I’d like to commit this day to the Caps, but I know something’s going to pop up between now and then here at the office…
by DrinkingPartner on May 13, 2009 9:29 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I’d like to also, but have to help my students study for their SOLs….
hmmm education vs a Caps game 7…….
by RedskinFan4Life on May 13, 2009 9:36 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Educate them in how and why the Caps will win, tonight. Here are your talking points, verbatim:
-Ovechkin will take over the fucking game,
-Varly will stop every fucking puck,
-Green will fucking score,
- “Seminized” will become a dirty term for fucking over one’s Defense with sick moves (here’s a usage example for you: MAF was absolutely seminized tonight — Do you kiss your mother with that mouth?)
- Fedorov will not make stupid passes without looking, take any HHTs, and will school Crosby all the fucking way home to Pittsburgh.
- The Fucking Caps will fucking win.
Remember, those are verbatim talking points. Don’t disappoint me, now.:-)
by DrinkingPartner on May 13, 2009 9:51 AM EDT up reply actions 4 recs
I wish the Caps were on the SOL !!
That would give us a great homework assignment!!!
by RedskinFan4Life on May 13, 2009 5:42 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
haha, i’m administering 2 SOLs today! one (almost) down… at least it gives me 2 free hours to surf the net and get hyped for tonight!
by kellobellow on May 13, 2009 10:09 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
i’m giving my class a Quiz. I would take tomorrow off, but stupid HSAs coming up.
by Chimaera on May 13, 2009 10:39 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
yeah, i wanted to take tomorrow off, but i have to administer 2 more SOLs, and they won’t let subs do that… ohhh well.
by kellobellow on May 13, 2009 10:54 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I hear ya - wish I could do the same!
by RedskinFan4Life on May 13, 2009 5:42 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Holy crap! Whatcha gonna write should we make it to the 7th game of the the Cup Finals?
uhh...uhh...uhh...
by hotdog88gt on May 13, 2009 8:42 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Hopefully we’ll get a chance to find out.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
by J.P. on May 13, 2009 8:46 AM EDT up reply actions 3 recs
The Big Key
For me the big key tonight is puck possession. The Caps got away with having very little possession in G6. If that happens again it’ll be a 4-1 PIT win.
by TylerG on May 13, 2009 8:42 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
I’m going with “discipline.” Not to downplay puck possession – which is huge – but it’s been pretty well proven that you don’t need to bombard MAF with shot after shot after shot to beat him, and Varly stops what is kept to the outside (well, most of the time), so if the Pens want to cycle and throw muffins from the outside, the Caps could get away with it.
They might not be so lucky if the HHTs show up.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
by J.P. on May 13, 2009 8:49 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Somewhat related – MAF is 3.18/.874 in this series.
Shoot. The. Puck.
Totally unrelated – how is CHI in the Conference Finals with Khabi at .896?
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
by J.P. on May 13, 2009 8:52 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Somewhat related – MAF is 3.18/.874 in this series.
Shoot. The. Puck.
If the Caps can play even up in terms of puck possession, they ought to get a fairly easy win.
Maybe BB will match his lines a little more carefully and keep Stecks and Co out against Crosby and Guerin…that might help.
by fat_daddyo on May 13, 2009 8:57 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I heard the Versus clowns talking about how great Khabi was the other night and it didn’t jive with what I’d seen of that series. ANA-DET winner has to be a favorite against him/them.
by TylerG on May 13, 2009 9:05 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
In their four wins the Hawks scored 19 goals and allowed 11 (6-3, 2-1, 4-2, 7-5). Khabi gave up a bunch, but their O bailed him out. Not many goalies give up 5 goals in a second round potential clinching/elimination game and log a W…
by kcfatts on May 13, 2009 9:07 AM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
LOL. 4.75 GF/G will win you a lot of games, that’s for sure.
If DET advances, and I think they do, they’ll feast on that D.
by fat_daddyo on May 13, 2009 9:10 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Luongo is over rated?
I find sometimes it's easy to be myself
sometimes I find it's better to be somebody else
by Fauxrumors on May 13, 2009 9:57 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
what’s Luongo’s %? Not for the whole playoffs, just the chicago series. what’s his GAA?
It seemed like every game he was letting in >=3 goals.
by snowburnt on May 13, 2009 9:59 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
…by scoring a touchdown w/the PAT ag. Luongo:)
by mechanicsville on May 13, 2009 10:51 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Can they avoid HHT-itis if they’re chasing the Pens around in their zone for 65% of the time?
I’m with pretty much everyone here, I imagine, in that I’d love to see a complete rout by the Capitals. But with the way the Caps have gotten pinned in their zone, I just don’t see it happening.
Sadly, I am pessimistic.
by fat_daddyo on May 13, 2009 8:55 AM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
Can they avoid HHT-itis if they’re chasing the Pens around in their zone for 65% of the time?
That’s a great point and gets at how intertwined these keys are.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
by J.P. on May 13, 2009 8:57 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
That I think depends on the forwards. We need guys to play both ways, and help the defense out.
And for the love of god could they please stop skating with their backs to the play on breakouts, skating right past Penguins who bottle up the breakout? Help out and give a damned passing option for out guys!
by HateOffSeason on May 13, 2009 9:08 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I agree discipline is big.
But I think puck possession is less about bombing MAF and more about keeping Varly from facing 45 more shots.
by TylerG on May 13, 2009 9:04 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Agree.
Keep the puck more and:
1. reduce the chances for restraining fouls;
2. reduce the workload on Varly;
3. get a chance to expose MAF; and
4. probably give the PP a chance to go to work.
Another game where the Pens get to 40+ shots by working the cycle for long stretches, and we’re going home, I think.
by fat_daddyo on May 13, 2009 9:08 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Agreed.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
by J.P. on May 13, 2009 9:21 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Agree, puck possession is the key here, but discipline will be too. If the Caps can get as many PPs as the Pens, they will win.
Own the puck and don’t take penalties (and the two often go hand in hand). Simple, right?
by grapejoos on May 13, 2009 11:06 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Beninati was on Elliot this morning touting discipline as key. He said if you give Pittsburgh four or more power play opportunities, you’re playing with fire.
If they can stay out of the box, thorw a few more shots at Fleury and be better with the puck, these crazy kids just might pull this thing off.
by Vickster on May 13, 2009 9:31 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Hooking, holding and tripping fouls. Basically, your obstruction penalties, often the result of lazy play.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
by J.P. on May 13, 2009 9:34 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Can we add slashing the stick to that list?
by renstar on May 13, 2009 10:43 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
so that it’s SHHT? maybe add Interference to the right spot and you have a word that I’ve said every time the refs hand goes up.
by snowburnt on May 13, 2009 11:09 AM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
I amJack’suselesswork day.
I know it’s a quote, but now it works better for me.
by D'ohboy on May 13, 2009 2:01 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I think what would be great would be MAF getting pulled like Lundy was in the NYR series. I doubt that would happen, but it’d be sweet…..
by RedskinFan4Life on May 13, 2009 9:29 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
ALAS ----
it was Varly getting pulled…..
by RedskinFan4Life on May 13, 2009 8:49 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
The faces in Pittsburgh
The sweetest thing I’ve seen on the TV this season were the faces of the Pens fans sitting in the crowd minutes after the players left the ice. Chins perched on closed fists, some fat lady yelling at someone down in front of her, people in total disbelief of losing Game 6.
I do not expect to see that tonight
uhh...uhh...uhh...
by hotdog88gt on May 13, 2009 9:37 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
To each his own – I enjoyed Steckel’s reaction to his goal more.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
by J.P. on May 13, 2009 9:39 AM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
how about OV jumping on teammates and nearly knocking them over? that OV guy just loves the game, don’t he?
by RedskinFan4Life on May 13, 2009 9:40 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
And he really does celebrate more (or at least as much) when teammates score as when he does (contrary to the belief of some).
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
by J.P. on May 13, 2009 9:42 AM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
yup. seeing him bounce up and down in the middle of the team hug was like seeing pure joy. awesome
by ns on May 13, 2009 9:41 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
every time i catch myself freaking out about tonight, i just think about that- brings the smile right back to my face.
by sonia on May 13, 2009 2:33 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Every time I catch myself freaking out about tonight, I do a shot of bourbon.
I’ve had my stomach pumped 14 times already today.
Fire in the hole!
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
by J.P. on May 13, 2009 2:39 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
yeah no doubt that was the best… him in the middle of the pack jumping up and down looking straight up cracked me up..
by sexypills03 on May 13, 2009 9:43 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I couldn’t agree more—I live only to bask in the joy of my team’s victory, not gloat in our opponent’s defeat.
People can chant “Crosby Sucks!” all they want…but I’ll be one of the one’s screaming “Let’s Go Caps!!!”
by PaintDrinkingPete on May 13, 2009 9:57 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Steckel and Laich! I don’t think I’ve ever seen such pure, unadulterated joy on two guys’ faces after a big win…ever!
by mechanicsville on May 13, 2009 10:54 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
maybe one other time… 2/20/80. (Hope that doesn’t jinx our Russians)
by war_capitals on May 13, 2009 2:38 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Me too – Steckel jumping and yelling with glee even after he was getting mobbed by his teammates. Hopefully he (and Laich, and Brads) will be a big factor again tonight.
by grapejoos on May 13, 2009 11:08 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
On seeing that scene, I said to my wife, “ha, now they know how it feels to be a Caps fan!”
by katzistan on May 13, 2009 9:55 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
No, they don’t, because they can lift their heads up off their hands and look to Stanley Cup Champion banners – not WNBA attendance champ banners – in the rafters.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
by J.P. on May 13, 2009 10:04 AM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
I do't know...
Maybe it is this series or maybe it is this year in genearl, I am learning how to become a fan.
I am beginning to enjoy it when the Caps win and do not care how the other teams fare let alone the looks on the fans’ faces.
I really hope Gonchar plays tonight.
by CapsFan on May 13, 2009 10:59 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
And the puck bounces over his stick….
by vt caps fan on May 13, 2009 11:08 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I just want the Caps to beat the Penguins when all their players are healthy and on ice at the final buzzer. To be the best, you have to beat the best. I mean you don’t wait for some one to get sick and then pick a fight with him/her.
by CapsFan on May 13, 2009 11:17 AM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
I enjoy both the win and the dismay of the losing team when they are especially smug and superior.
Call it the Conan the Barbarian school of fandom.
by jimmiebjr on May 13, 2009 11:51 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
To see the penguins driven before you and hear the lamentation of Crosby?
by Ovechwin on May 13, 2009 12:47 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Oh yes! Either that, or…
SQUEEEEAAAAL Crosby!
by war_capitals on May 13, 2009 1:10 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Crush your enemies! See them driven before you! And to hear
the lamentation of the women (Crosby)!
by bigeugene on May 13, 2009 2:44 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Keys of the game
avoiding HHTitis, and puck possession are key, but don’t forget “clear the man out of the crease area, don’t just wave your stick at the puck like its a magic wand”
by Sombrero Guy on May 13, 2009 9:49 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
also, make sure you clear the puck. Most of the pens goals have come from poor clearing attempts.
by snowburnt on May 13, 2009 10:00 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
This.
Clears need to be good and pucks need to get deep at the other end of the rink.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
by J.P. on May 13, 2009 10:05 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
+52. And not all clears have to be limp-wristed flicks along the boards!
The keyboard is mightier.
by breed16 on May 13, 2009 10:44 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
WHEN we get a 1-goal lead, DON’T TRY TO SIT ON IT!! Throughout the 2nd and first part of the 3rd, the Caps were doing a nice job of clearing the zone by coming up the middle and it was working quite nicely. They got their lead in the 3rd and reverted back to trying to clear along the boards…not very successfully. Don’t know if this was a coach or player decision, but it almost cost us the game.
by mechanicsville on May 13, 2009 11:00 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Amen to this. The Caps play very well when the score is tied or they are losing. If they played like that when they were ahead, they would be in much better shape.
Good news is that this is game 7, and I think they are going to be playing with maximum effort and efficiency all night.
by grapejoos on May 13, 2009 11:10 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
make sure you clear the puck. Most of the pens goals have come from poor clearing attempts.
Yes, Mike Green, I’m looking at YOU!
I’d rather deal with an icing than a give-back at the blue line.
by fat_daddyo on May 13, 2009 10:43 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
The way the guys have been winning face-offs this series, I’d much rather have the icing than the giveaway at the point.
by jimmiebjr on May 13, 2009 10:54 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Well, you can’t change lines after an icing, and the opposition can, so it can lead to matchup hell, but the failure to exit the zone almost always leads to a chance, so on balance I’d rather have the icing.
The best thing, of course, would be to get organized and get out of the zone under control, but that’s been too much to ask for, evidently.
by fat_daddyo on May 13, 2009 10:58 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
The best thing, of course, would be to get organized and get out of the zone under control, but that’s been too much to ask for, evidently.
… that probably drives me nuts more than everything else combined.
by kellobellow on May 13, 2009 11:03 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Airborne Os
Like the daring young man on the flying trapeze, Ovie is the one who steals hearts when he does his celebration thing.
I totally don’t mind the Pensblog pix of Ovie as a ballet dancer (Moscow Ballet poster) cuz none of the Pens could ever reach such heights. And ballet is probably the most tough dancing in the world. Takes incredible mentality to be good at it, like hockey, and the Russians are the best in the world at ballet, too.
The quality of the photoshopping work put into that poster was also very high, which is flattering to see (that a Pens fan would care enough to make Ovie look good like that).
by localhead on May 13, 2009 9:50 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
I’m somewhat bothered by the TOI for Clark and Beagle in game 6. Their no-show (2 min each) adds minutes to the already overloaded lines 1-3 and effectively keeps 10% of the roster off the field. In contrast, the shortest TOI for Pens was Adams’s 6:49 and Satan’s 10:18. It’d be interesting to see whether BB’s going to come up with something — maybe split them between lines 3 and 4?.. Not sure about that though…
by fnralch on May 13, 2009 9:51 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Recall also that Pittsburgh dressed 7 D so all of the forwards’ minutes were going up
by gnuf on May 13, 2009 9:58 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
plus they were playing most of the game with 2 centers…towards the end we were too.
by snowburnt on May 13, 2009 10:01 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Big Key for tonight...
When in the defensive zone, remember the blue line is your best friend, and you want to share the puck with it, so keep send pucks to the blue line and past it…
Let's go Caps!
by MikeL-Caps on May 13, 2009 9:56 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
The last time Pittsburgh was shut out
was Game 5 of the Philly series. The Flyers outhit and outshot the Pens and never let them off the mat. Of course the pens were coasting on a 3-1 series lead and a lapse in effirt might have been expected.
In Game 6 in Philly, the Flyers jumped all over the Pens and went up 2-0 with goals 51 secs apart in the first, then extended the lead to 3-0 in the second. Then the unthinkable happened: Carcillo picks a fight with Talbot, and teh Pens came roaring back with 3 goals in the 2nd, then Gonch sent them ahead in the early in the 3rd with the GWG.
Why am I bringing this up?
The Pens can be had. I think the Caps’ D are a little mesmerized with Sid and Malkin, and they should be respected. But our D has been backing away and allowing the long stretch passes to connect just over the red line, and away the Pens go.
The Caps have to use their size and strength to limit the attacks in the neutral zone, and force the Pens to chip it instead of backing off.
These Pens haven’t changed from that PHI series, and we have seen their attack at it’s best. Yet they can be shut down. The Flyers outshot them badly in couple games. Fleury is very suspect, if you ask me.
I am feeling awesome about our chances tonight.
by S h a g g y on May 13, 2009 10:03 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
I don’t think after 6 games anything is going to change in the way the Caps play the Pens. As has been demonstrated on this blog, the series has been dead even. It’s going to come down to a couple of bounces tonight – as fans, we just need to hope those bounces go our way.
by katzistan on May 13, 2009 10:04 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Oh yeah, and unleashing some fury would be helpful.
by katzistan on May 13, 2009 10:05 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Refs tonight
McCreary and O’Halloran
by Kerry Fraser's Hairspray on May 13, 2009 10:05 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
So don’t expect too many penalties. Good, I think.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
by J.P. on May 13, 2009 10:06 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
at least no furlatz or whatever crap that was.
by Chimaera on May 13, 2009 10:07 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Didn’t McCreary ref Game 7 of the Flyers series last year?
by katzistan on May 13, 2009 10:14 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
No – Koho and Devorski.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
by J.P. on May 13, 2009 10:15 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
(And I think I’ll take these two Irishmen over those two Poles.)
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
by J.P. on May 13, 2009 10:16 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I hope you are right, JP. In this series we have lost both games that these refs were in. Game 3 in Pitt with O’halloran reffing and of course game 5 in DC in OT with McCreary reffing and the non calls that led to a Pitt powerplay and Malkin GWG. I really hope they just let the boys play tonight.
by PennCapsFan12 on May 13, 2009 12:28 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
One thing I forgot to add…the powerplays were 7-2 in Pitt favor the night O’halloran reffed.
by PennCapsFan12 on May 13, 2009 12:29 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
We were definitely screwskied with those refs.
by Ovechwin on May 13, 2009 12:49 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Nope
It was Koharski and Devorski which led to the Caps being screwedski
Pension Plan Puppets: A Toronto Maple Leafs blog and a group therapy session.
by PPP on May 13, 2009 10:16 AM EDT up reply actions 2 recs
Hey PPP
Silly question perhaps, but where does the name “Pension Plan Puppets” come from?
by Kerry Fraser's Hairspray on May 13, 2009 11:12 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
The Toronto Maple Leafs are owned by MLSE (Maple Leafs Sports and Entertainment). Their primary investor is the Ontario Teachers Pension Plan.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maple_Leaf_Sports_&_Entertainment
by PaintDrinkingPete on May 13, 2009 12:03 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Sorry, that wikipedia link didn’t work right…Go here if interested.
by PaintDrinkingPete on May 13, 2009 12:04 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
PaintDrinkingPete is right on one part. The Ontario Teachers Pension Plan didn’t think that torturing kids from ages 4-18 was enough so they bought the Maple Leafs.
And it comes from a conspiracy theory my friend and baked up during Edmonton’s run to the Cup Final and the attendant damage to the downtown core. We joked that MLSE kept the Leafs just good enough to keep fans happy but not so good as to win because the ensuing riots would cause massive damage to the billions in property that they own around the ACC.
It’s also a tongue in cheek jab at people that mock Leaf fans for being loyal.
Pension Plan Puppets: A Toronto Maple Leafs blog and a group therapy session.
by PPP on May 13, 2009 12:08 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Very similar to the theory I have regarding Peter Angelos and the Baltimore Orioles…why spend money to win when you can make money losing?
by PaintDrinkingPete on May 13, 2009 12:14 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Redskins?
I think they’re the most profitable sports franchise in North America and they flirt with Mediocrity (usually on the worse side) on an annual basis.
by snowburnt on May 13, 2009 12:34 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
A lot of sports fans can argue, but for me, Angelos is the worst owner in all of sports. I feel like the Redskins owner/management at least tries to win and wants to win, even if they keep coming up looking like dumbasses.
by PaintDrinkingPete on May 13, 2009 12:41 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yes, they do, and that’s the key difference between a “bad owner” and a “horrible owner”. “Bad owners” get lucky and win championships every so often (Al Davis), “horrible owners” don’t (Peter Angelos).
by wittcap79 on May 13, 2009 1:14 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I have to agree with you. Angelos is bad for Baltimore. i have been a bird fan for as long as i can remember. Ever since Cal left and even the last three or four seasons he was still with the club….the Orioles have sucked! They need someone new. Once I heard that Cal was interested in buying the team from him…is that still a rumor?
by Dalehunter on May 13, 2009 1:18 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
The problem I’ve heard (no evidence just from memory) is that angelos won’t sell. So basicly we have to let him die before his son will sell to Cal.
by MetalCap on May 13, 2009 4:09 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Well...
Kind of. It’s more tongue-in-cheek because MLSE mostly doles out the cash needed just not in a smart way. That seems to be changing though.
Now Harold Ballard, that was a guy that believed in not spending money and losing.
Pension Plan Puppets: A Toronto Maple Leafs blog and a group therapy session.
by PPP on May 13, 2009 1:20 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Thanks…I can officially consider myself to have learned something today!
by Kerry Fraser's Hairspray on May 13, 2009 2:05 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I know it didn't exactly work, but...
I liked it a lot when Fedorov was shooting from WAY out and created chances from rebounds that MAF gave. Like JB said during that game (I believe game 5), I am not sure if BB told him to do so or was it just him. Either way, it was a great way to not only dump the puck in but get into MAF’s head.
by CapsFan on May 13, 2009 10:21 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
I think a couple things are in the Caps favor:
This is the Cap’s third game 7, which by the way they have never lost in regulation.
Where on the other-hand, this Pens team has never experienced a game 7, and really, never overcome much adversity in their playoff experience. They’ve never been down by even a game, and won a series.
They obviously came back in this particular series, but couldn’t close it out Monday, so…
The Caps have home-ice, which tonight IS an advantage.
The Pens needed OT to win their one road win here.
The Caps seem loose and relaxed, as they have been there, done that (game 7 pressure).
I’m liking the vibe of this game.
LETS GO CAPS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
by marks4java on May 13, 2009 10:22 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
All those things are in the Caps’ favor right now, but I assure you (and everyone else here) that all of that goes out the window once the puck drops and play starts. I’m not trying to be pessimistic at all, just saying that regardless of all this stuff, it’s going to come down to which team plays a better game tonight.
But I am optimistic that the Caps are that team!
by PaintDrinkingPete on May 13, 2009 10:37 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yeah, but I’m not talking about stats, I’m talking about the experiences that distinguish champions from runners-up.
The Caps have more to draw from than the Pens, in a close series such as this.
The Pens may have gone to the finals last year, but which challenges did they face to get there?
I just think this Caps team has a deeper place to dig.
by marks4java on May 13, 2009 10:48 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I am pessimistic. Being pessimistic is a win-win approach. If they lose, you’re prepared. If they win, you are pleasantly surprised.
by katzistan on May 13, 2009 10:49 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I am reminded of what a hobo in a Bugs Bunny cartoon once said:
“Penguins is practically chickens”.
by jimmiebjr on May 13, 2009 10:36 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
I can’t believe it’s not even 11 AM yet. Wait a second, wasn’t it just 10:55? Now it’s only 10:45!!!! DAAH
The keyboard is mightier.
by breed16 on May 13, 2009 10:45 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Man I’m nervous as shit for this game. I’ve already been at work for 3 hours and haven’t done squat. Not good.
by vt caps fan on May 13, 2009 10:48 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
crap I’m supposed to go to work today
by snowburnt on May 13, 2009 11:12 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
My heart was racing on the subway this morning just thinking about it. This is the biggest game to me in my 14+ years of Caps fandom.
by grapejoos on May 13, 2009 11:13 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
No work
It’s 12:55pm been here since 7:45am. I have a planning period now (which today I am planing on how I am watching the game) my students get back in 35 minutes, and I have done nothing all day other then review for their final in two weeks! I wont be at the phone booth but will be watching from a luxury box seat at the local farm teams baseball game. They have a TV and free food and drink. Needles to say I wont be watching the baseball game at all!
Tonight…..Just win…..
by Dalehunter on May 13, 2009 1:05 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
No I live in York PA it’s the Revolution.
by Dalehunter on May 13, 2009 1:12 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Same league. Cool! I saw York play a couple of weeks ago. Another Brooks Robinson team, I think.
by jimmiebjr on May 13, 2009 1:37 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I am not sure who they filter into…if at all. It’s called the Atlantic league. The talent is pretty good. Tickets at field level are only 10 bucks. So that’s nice…
by Dalehunter on May 13, 2009 2:11 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
They’re an independent league, so they don’t filter into any one team. That league has an agreement with MLB, though, so their players do get scouted and sometimes signed to minor league contracts. If you look, you can find a number of former major-leaguers. I believe Preston Wilson is playing for the Long Island team.
by jimmiebjr on May 13, 2009 2:20 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
On the boards
In G6 we were manhandled along the boards in our zone. I counted 12 times when a Cap below the goal ripped the puck around to the winger on the side boards, only it was too fast-too hard to handle and it ended up on the Pen’s D on the point. And, back came the puck.
I’d like to see a little patience with the puck in our zone tonight.
by Tony_Fletcher on May 13, 2009 10:58 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
I would really like it if Ovie decided to take out the smarmy guy in the NHL Portal commercial.
by meatball20 on May 13, 2009 11:17 AM EDT reply actions 2 recs
He kinda gives him a look like he’s gonna…
by PaintDrinkingPete on May 13, 2009 12:32 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Stealth = D
Will the Stealth sticks give Mike Green the amazing power to play DEFENSE. I think he sometimes forgets that he has a little “D” before his name. I’ve read recently about people comparing him to Housley, Coffey, and Bourque. I think the only difference is that those guys we solid in their own end.
I guess the point I’m trying to make is that I hope Green can play a solid game tonight on both ends, and learn to elevate his game defensively. BEAT THOSE CRYBABY PENS!
by The Admiral on May 13, 2009 11:40 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Not much to say about this one pregame. It’s all happened before and it will all happen again.
Do it Caps.
by zephyr on May 13, 2009 12:27 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
On NHL on the Fly this AM Locker said, “The first ten minutes will dictate the outcome of the game.” I’m not so sure that’s the case, but I agree that a great start is critical for the Caps tonight. And tonight I’m not adhering to the bad juju associated with the team scoring the first goal in this series. I want that first marker.
from the house that Red Jesus built
by bigonetimer on May 13, 2009 1:05 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
If I may… the first FOUR markers… maybe even…
DA FIF!!! (whoever posted that a few days ago, thanks for making me shoot soda all over my keyboard!)
by war_capitals on May 13, 2009 1:13 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
That’s what they say about every big game. Sure hasn’t been true in this series at all through 6 games. Whoever scores last, that’s what dictates the outcome.
by katzistan on May 13, 2009 3:05 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
thanks zephyr, funny as HELL!
If you haven’t seen this skit from his show yet, I apologize. Get on it, too funny not to see. You’re not doing anything productive at work anyways… (right?) LOL
by war_capitals on May 13, 2009 1:54 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
As to whether I’m productive at work today…FIF!
by grapejoos on May 13, 2009 2:11 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
dave chappelle show. I’m guessing if you youtube “fif” you’ll find it…if it doesn’t come up add dave chappelle
"You will remember the night you were struck by the sight of [18] thousand fists in the air" -Disturbed
by snowburnt on May 13, 2009 3:55 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Anyone, by chance, know of a site that will be streaming the game? Have a friend who wants to watch, but with no cable.
by jimmiebjr on May 13, 2009 4:29 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Err…friend. Just one. All I can afford.
by jimmiebjr on May 13, 2009 4:40 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
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Southeast Standings
| GP | W | L | OTL | PT | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Washington
|
22 | 13 | 5 | 4 | 30 |
|
Tampa Bay
|
19 | 8 | 4 | 7 | 23 |
|
Atlanta
|
18 | 10 | 6 | 2 | 22 |
|
Florida
|
20 | 9 | 9 | 2 | 20 |
|
Carolina
|
21 | 4 | 12 | 5 | 13 |
(updated 11.21.2009 at 12:53 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.
