Game (7) Day Open Thread - Penguins @ Capitals
by J.P. on May 13, 2009 5:00 PM EDT
in Game Day Open Threads
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PrintPittsburgh Penguins at Washington Capitals, May 13, 2009 7:00 PM EDT
Tonight's probable netminders:
Have at it, people.
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I’ve waited my whole Caps-watching life for a night like tonight.
I believe.
by jimmiebjr on May 13, 2009 5:06 PM EDT reply actions 1 recs
SG, I believe I owe you $10.
Also, I BELIEVE
by Gould Old Days on May 13, 2009 5:17 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
I, we, you, he, she, they believe! Don’t let us down boys.
by SethB on May 13, 2009 5:18 PM EDT reply actions 1 recs
Sitting at work right now. Going to leave in half an hour (3:00 for me here in California).
About 7 years ago I made a couple of hockey-themed CDs. iTunes just randomly began playing one of them. It’s a sign.
Remind me again how I’m supposed to get any work done today?
Didn't you get the memo...
No work today – you have to conserve your energy for tonight.
I was sitting in a restuarant a few hours ago with my wife. She was chatting away and the only thing I could hear was Go! Caps! Go!
I wish I really and truly believed, but I’m just not quite there yet. But I certainly believe more than I did three days ago.
Just for god’s sake stay out of the penalty box.
Believe, man. Believe!
It doesn’t matter what they’ve done in other years, with other players, and another coach. We had the second-best record in the East, the fourth-best record in the entire league. We have a Norris and Hart Trophy finalist and the hottest thing between the pipes since you defrosted our water main last winter. This is a good team with a good coach and great fans.
Believe.
Monday, I admit, I did not believe. Right now, I believe.
by CapitalCentre on May 13, 2009 6:22 PM EDT up reply actions
What Crosby deserves
Welcome to Smashville, Tennessee.
by Aditya T (smashville) on May 13, 2009 6:13 PM EDT reply actions
I wish I could say something classy and inspirational, but
that just wouldn’t be our style.
Pain heals. Chicks dig scars. Glory… lasts forever.
I believe!
But that doesn’t mean I’m not nervous as heck!
I need 100% of you guys to give 110% 100% of the time.
Blue Moon’s all I got at home right now, and some Cabernet! …and hard stuff, but I BELIEVE that I won’t need that!
by DrinkingPartner on May 13, 2009 6:52 PM EDT up reply actions
As if we need any more pumping up...
Per Tarik:
Here’s what the rest of the Caps’ lineup should look like based on warmups (it’s basically exactly how it was in overtime of Game 6):
Forwards
Ovechkin-Backstrom-Kozlov
Fleischmann-Fedorov-Semin
Laich-Steckel-Bradley
Beagle-Gordon-Clark
Defense
Morrisonn-Green
Poti-Jurcina
Erskine-Pothier
Does Anyone Believe that the Caps are going to come out “safe” and trying not to “make mistakes” like they’ve been telling everyone today?
I’m happy the Laich-Steckel-Bradley line is still together, I like watching them play, I think they’re a great fit as a line.
You'd think Easton would capitalize on the Easton Stealth model
and reintroduce it now that it’s got a legend behind it, not to mention it’s the stick he had when he broke the D scoring record.
This is the worst possible evening for my girlfriend’s parents to take me out to dinner…Did somebody say McDonalds?
Her brother is pissed, he’s a big fan…but unfortunately he’s not here to convince them.
by thehoagster07 on May 13, 2009 7:22 PM EDT up reply actions
Well, our 3 wins are in games I’ve missed large portions of the game…so I’m definitely taking one for the team and going.
by thehoagster07 on May 13, 2009 7:21 PM EDT up reply actions
So far we've been doing MUCH better at getting the puck
outta our zone than any of the previous games. Hope it holds
offsides
"You will remember the night you were struck by the sight of [18] thousand fists in the air" -Disturbed
Vogel is going with “Lunch Bucket Set.” I’m not convinced
by Gould Old Days on May 13, 2009 7:27 PM EDT up reply actions
Dude, if you’re going to go down 2, better to do it with 46 minutes left than with 5
by Gould Old Days on May 13, 2009 7:35 PM EDT up reply actions
this wouldn’t be the caps if it were easy. nothing new, backs against the wall, this is when we raise our game.
clearly, but that just wouldn’t be this team.
by Natty Bumppo on May 13, 2009 7:40 PM EDT up reply actions
I didn’t see it as retaliation — I saw it as trying to fight through the hold
by Gould Old Days on May 13, 2009 7:43 PM EDT up reply actions
These refs suck. I said it.
"You will remember the night you were struck by the sight of [18] thousand fists in the air" -Disturbed
Quit being such a apologist. Semin was hit in the face and he was interfered with seconds earlier.
"You will remember the night you were struck by the sight of [18] thousand fists in the air" -Disturbed
Define “clean”
*Semin didn’t have the puck
*Semin was hit high
*Semin was hit with a closed fist in the face
seconds earlier he was knocked down needlessly.
There is nothing about that that’s clean.
"You will remember the night you were struck by the sight of [18] thousand fists in the air" -Disturbed
No matter what happens, even if the Capitals win the Stanley Cup, Boudreau needs to reevaluate the way he prepares his team for games.
by David Getz on May 13, 2009 7:47 PM EDT reply actions 1 recs
No. We have players that can compete and can play great hockey. For whatever reason they start extremely slow. That’s not being ready to come out and play.
i don’t think the coach can control that. certainly what he CAN control is the same mistakes being committed over and over. the same stupid penalties over and over. playing Flash too much…etc. not absolving him of guilt.
Russian Machine Never Breaks
It’s the job of the coach to find a way to get the team to come out and be ready to play, and the Capitals haven’t been doing that. They’ve looked completely overwhelmed at the start of games several times in the playoffs already, and BB needs to find a way to get them ready.
Bingo.
Though the second goal was a tad soft, the 2-1 off the bloody faceoff is completely inexcusable.
Horrible.
i just think that’s too easy an explanation. if next year is the same song, i’ll buy.
Russian Machine Never Breaks
If that’s the same story next year, BB won’t be around for too much longer.
by DrinkingPartner on May 13, 2009 8:00 PM EDT up reply actions
well it’s not like he can start benching semin, morissonn, etc…
personally i think the talent mix on this roster needs a little more balancing.
Russian Machine Never Breaks
I don’t think it’s a matter of benching guys at this point; like was said before, if a player’s not up for a game seven, the coach can’t do much of anything. I don’t think the issue is effort, I think it’s preparation. To me, they just don’t look ready for what their opponents are going to throw at them.
who is really any good on the Caps D, other than Green, who is still young? everybody has a game plan until they get punched in the face.
Russian Machine Never Breaks
I think everyone on the Caps blue line is solid, the problem is they don’t have enough high-end talent. Green’s their only real top pairing defenseman and Poti and maybe Schultz are top four guys. As a result guys are being slotted higher on the depth chart than they should be.
The back end could use upgrading, no doubt, but the team has also shown over and over again that they’re talented and can beat anyone in the NHL. When that’s consistent, and coming out and getting overwhelmed in the first happens regularly, I think it makes sense to think BB needs to reevaluate the way he prepares his guys.
let’s hope he’s not preparing morissonn, jurcina, erskine, pothier or poti for much longer.
Russian Machine Never Breaks
That’s a fine argument to make but it doesn’t negate the fact that BB can’t get us to play like we need to play right from the drop of the puck.
I agree with this.
I don’t know whether it’s nerves, lack of effort, lack of preparation, or what. But they consistently underwhelm in Game 7,
They’re not, though. The Caps are just as good, if not better, most of the time. 1st periods, though, just aren’t very good for them all around.
by DrinkingPartner on May 13, 2009 8:04 PM EDT up reply actions
Where is the compete level??
That’s 2 consecutive Game 7’s that they have come out and flat out not competed. This is on BB…
i wouldn’t say the compete level is on BB. what player comes out for game 7 flat? if you can’t be up for that you are screwed.
Russian Machine Never Breaks
it’s pretty obvious that standing pat wasn’t our preference at the trade deadline. but sadly and realistically, there wasn’t any choice.
Russian Machine Never Breaks
They need to play a tight point, for christ’s sake, the D are getting way too many second shots
by DrinkingPartner on May 13, 2009 7:51 PM EDT reply actions
I’ve noticed Green making a ton of turnovers in his own zone. That left shoulder must be killing him—he won’t take any contact with it.
Summer headline...
“Green played with Grade 2 separated shoulder”
I just hope I don’t read that tomorrow.
Matt Wieters took batting practice this morning. There were no survivors.
Quick Thank You
To all of you here. Was a Japers’ member before the site change and never bothered to rejoin until today. Watching here in Denver, but the conversation makes me feel like I’m back in DC.
Cheers.
what is with that shot differential
"You will remember the night you were struck by the sight of [18] thousand fists in the air" -Disturbed
Tough to shoot
when the puck’s in your own end most of the period.
Matt Wieters took batting practice this morning. There were no survivors.
The good thing is that an angry Ovechkin is a sad Pens team.
by DrinkingPartner on May 13, 2009 8:01 PM EDT reply actions
DON'T STOP BELEIVIN
Welcome to Smashville, Tennessee.
by Aditya T (smashville) on May 13, 2009 8:06 PM EDT reply actions
I wanted Tsarlamov. I got Sub-parlamov.
by Rob Parker on May 13, 2009 8:07 PM EDT reply actions 2 recs
FUCK FUCK FUCK FUCK
i stopped beleiving. :*
Welcome to Smashville, Tennessee.
by Aditya T (smashville) on May 13, 2009 8:08 PM EDT reply actions
Maybe now the team starts realizing they can’t throw away the first period of elimination games and still win.
Relishing the incredible season and more-successful post-season and looking forward to camp?
by CapitalCentre on May 13, 2009 8:10 PM EDT up reply actions
Well, I really hate football — I’ll be watching lacrosse instead, I guess.
by CapitalCentre on May 13, 2009 8:12 PM EDT up reply actions
The Caps can tie. Remember what Happened in NYC on December 23rd!
by DrinkingPartner on May 13, 2009 8:10 PM EDT reply actions
must have “celebrated” winning the “series” on Mon night and then realized they had another game tonight…..
by RedskinFan4Life on May 13, 2009 8:10 PM EDT reply actions
The thing that pisses me off the most?
That dumbass fan who said he wanted to kill ovechkin is probably rejoicing right now. it makes me sick.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=laydODN6xVk
Or Carolina will, then we’ll have to hear about how Carolina has 2 cups to our none.
by sincitycapsfan on May 13, 2009 8:15 PM EDT up reply actions
I have less respect for the fans booing than the players on ice right now.
by :hsughrofl: on May 13, 2009 8:15 PM EDT reply actions 2 recs
Agree completely
Come on VC … be classy.
Imagine this is 2010. That’s the kind of shit that encourages young players like Backstom & Semin to look for new teams.
Good thing the Capitals still control their rights.
But I do think that’s being a little too worried. The fans have been great all season, I don’t think anyone walks because some of them get upset at a dud in this situation
if we’re thinking longterm, i’m more worried about what this game means for varlamov’s mental state in the future.
by Natty Bumppo on May 13, 2009 8:21 PM EDT up reply actions
i’d like to pretend I’m above it, but if I shelled out 250 a seat, I’d be pissed at the Caps effort too
by sincitycapsfan on May 13, 2009 8:23 PM EDT up reply actions
You don’t boo to a team that’s had as amazing a season as this. Just fucking pathetic.
by :hsughrofl: on May 13, 2009 8:27 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
I wouldn’t boo, i would just leave. It would say a lot more if all the fans got up and left.
by sincitycapsfan on May 13, 2009 8:30 PM EDT up reply actions
I would leave the room, but this is going to be the last I see of this team for a few months. Dammit.
Think positive….. Think positive…. yes, kindda hard, i know
by Citygirlcountryheart on May 13, 2009 8:16 PM EDT reply actions
What the hell kinda talk is this?
This is still a Caps team who has won 3 games. This is still a Caps team who has Alex Ovechkin, Alex Semin, Nicklas Backstrom, and Mike Green. This is still the fucking Cardiac Caps!
by DrinkingPartner on May 13, 2009 8:18 PM EDT reply actions
Just got here!
And oh my! What a bummer… I still believe if there’s a team that can come back, it’s the frickin’ Caps!!
Looking ahead to next year:
1. Neuvy and Varly compete to be the #1. Have to keep Theo as the backup and eat the salary.
2. Shamo – gone. Fedorov – gone. Semin – traded for some grit.
3. Alzner plays all year.
4. Maybe a depth center through FA.
Anyway, they won a series, I’m calling it a successful season, even though this game leaves a foul taste in the mouth.
He was just fine until this series. And he was fantastic last year. What are you talking about, “not in the playoffs?”
by DrinkingPartner on May 13, 2009 8:24 PM EDT up reply actions
i think this ends “best playoff series since the lockout” talk. going out 5-0 or worse on home ice = epic of a different kind.
by Natty Bumppo on May 13, 2009 8:25 PM EDT up reply actions
I think the bottom line is this: fewer guys like Fleischmann, Fedorov, and Kozlov, who aren’t great offensive talents and don’t bring much in the way of defense or forechecking or penalty differential and more guys like Laich and Steckel who help the team even when they’re not scoring.
Who’s the scoring threat behind Ovie, then?
by DrinkingPartner on May 13, 2009 8:27 PM EDT up reply actions
Who was our scoring threat this year in the playoffs behind AO? It was the Steckel line. Like DMG said, bring in 2-way guys that will always try hard and you’ll find offense. AO and Baxter are going to carry a pretty substantial load. AO matched Crosbalkin this entire series until this game.
honestly it’s incredible we’ve stayed above water for this long with zero contribution from green or semin. too many games it’s been ovechkin&backstrom/steckel/varlamov and nothing else.
by Natty Bumppo on May 13, 2009 8:31 PM EDT up reply actions
I agree. If the team could lose Kozlov, Fleischmann, Fedorov, and Semin and (theoretically, mind you), replace them with guys like Laich or Dustin Brown, who work and work and work, they’ll still score – and they’ll give up a lot fewer PPs and turn the puck over a lot less.
Me either, just the first guy who came to mind as a prototype. He and Richards are the two guys I constantly yearn for
D-Brown better be on Team USA 2010. I’m not exactly sure what we would get for Semin but I have to imagine it would be high quality. (Brendan Morrow is another guy I’d love but he’s not going to be available either).
Nice.
I’ve always been partial to Erik Cole too, but I can’t see him leaving Carolina unless someone gives him more than he’s worth.
Man I just don’t see it in Erik Cole. I’ve always felt like the whole is less than the sum of the parts with him.
He really doesn’t look like what he used to be, but I’d still love to see him in the Capitals top six.
But I admit I’m a fan of the guy on a personal level – I have family in and around Oswego, including an uncle who taught Cole while he was in high school.
I always thought he’d be great on the right with Ovechkin or Semin – he has the speed to keep up, he crashes and bangs, he goes to net, and he has enough skill to capitalize on a regular basis.
Oh well
Welcome to Smashville, Tennessee.
by Aditya T (smashville) on May 13, 2009 8:22 PM EDT reply actions
I haven’t really been watching…but I figured we didn’t deserve one.
by sincitycapsfan on May 13, 2009 8:27 PM EDT up reply actions
Boudreau can yell at them all he wants, it’s not going to change things now. The problem we’ve seen tonight are the same problems we’ve seen all year, and they’re not going to fixed through thirty second of screaming. There were more than ninety games to do that, and it didn’t get done. That’s the problem here.
by David Getz on May 13, 2009 8:24 PM EDT reply actions 2 recs
The problems tonight may be similar to what happened all season, but the Pens have something figured out. We’ve had these same problems all series long.
by DrinkingPartner on May 13, 2009 8:25 PM EDT up reply actions
Quite honestly....
Your team showed a hell of a lot more heart and intensity all year than mine did, so… kudos to them.
It’s not enough I watch the Caps get blistered by a team I hate, I have to sit through that ridiculous clean coal commercial, too.
Why do they own us? Especially after such a tight series? It is bizarre.
by CapitalCentre on May 13, 2009 8:30 PM EDT up reply actions
Murphy’s Law pretty much explains tonight. What’s gone right?
by DrinkingPartner on May 13, 2009 8:31 PM EDT up reply actions
I’d give real money to see someone — I don’t care who — clean Crosby’s clock the next time he camps out in front of the goal.
The worst part about all this..
It doesn’t matter if it’s 5-0 or 1-0.. this team is pitiful everywhere on the ice tonight.
did Ovie miss a hit on a Pens and hit his own man !?!?!
by RedskinFan4Life on May 13, 2009 8:30 PM EDT reply actions
I feel bad for AO
He’s been the only one trying straight through this entire series, like he’s the only one that cares, and yet the only headline is going to be “Crosby beats Ovechkin.”
by Rob Parker on May 13, 2009 8:30 PM EDT reply actions 1 recs
Agree with that…all in all, honestly, PIT has the better team considering four lines and the D
by Donny Rivette on May 13, 2009 8:33 PM EDT up reply actions
They have really interesting pieces of the puzzle
I love Steckel, Gordon and Bradley. Ovechkin and Backstrom are a given. And I’m really willing to start the Official Varlamov Fan Club, now. ;)
too bad. This is a plain ol shellacking
by sincitycapsfan on May 13, 2009 8:31 PM EDT up reply actions
if we don’t score before intermission, i’m turning it off.
by Natty Bumppo on May 13, 2009 8:32 PM EDT up reply actions
from a pens fan
guys there is nothing more frustrating then when your team doesnt show up. happened to the pens last game. a truly anticlimactic ending to a fantastic series. sorry.
" I AM CAPATIN CHAOS, and this is my trusty Sidekick cato. Say hello Cato"
Dom Deluise 1933-2009, Cannonball run
by oldtimehockey09 on May 13, 2009 8:32 PM EDT reply actions
Thanks for the sentiment
but I’m pretty sure the last game went into OT. The better team won.
HAIL TO THE CAPITALS !!!!
what’s that icing for? who was he trying to pass to?
by RedskinFan4Life on May 13, 2009 8:35 PM EDT reply actions
C'mon Caps
I expect you to lose more dramaticly than this. I expected to get my heart ripped out, but this is so anticlimatic.
Your favorite meme is dead
what do you say in the locker room at 2nd intermission??? man, that’s hard…..
by RedskinFan4Life on May 13, 2009 8:36 PM EDT reply actions
You know what the worst thing is? There’s still a part of me that believes we can pull this out. I know it’s nearly impossible. I know it would require an effort from the team I haven’t seen in almost 40 minutes. I know it would most likely mean the comeback of the century. But part of me still believes.
God, I am pathetic.
So begins the summer doldrums. Only baseball….. Who plans these seasons?
What will I do at work without Caps’ blogs to read? Seriously!!
Alex Ovechkin, unassisted
Story of the series.
by Rob Parker on May 13, 2009 8:37 PM EDT reply actions 1 recs
They’re starting to get some chances, now.
by DrinkingPartner on May 13, 2009 8:39 PM EDT reply actions
We all know how the Caps play in the 3rd period. This game is not fucking over!
by DrinkingPartner on May 13, 2009 8:40 PM EDT up reply actions
I’ll take it! Anyway, everytime
by Citygirlcountryheart on May 13, 2009 8:40 PM EDT up reply actions
I maintain that the Caps have some of the worst & clueless fans in the league.
$100 says they were chanting Fleury after that goal. Hell, they do it after the opposing goalie makes a great save.
hey puck hit the ref!!! that is nice payback!
by RedskinFan4Life on May 13, 2009 8:41 PM EDT reply actions
wish they were that accurate on the goal
by RedskinFan4Life on May 13, 2009 8:41 PM EDT up reply actions
4 goals in 20 minutes - i’d like to be a fly on the wall in the Caps locker room right now -- i’d like to see whats being said in there….
by RedskinFan4Life on May 13, 2009 8:43 PM EDT reply actions
My my!
Commentator here just praised Bylsma for putting his checking line on the ice for a 4 goal lead and 45 secs left to play. What a genius. Whoop! :P
Nah! Montreal feed. But it’s obvious they’re absolutely and totally biased to Pitt. They suck that way.
i think we all know that GAA doesn’t represent his skill level, it’s more indicative of the lackluster D in front of him.
Yeesh!
Just look at all the deflections he could do nothing about.
It’s not his fault. He’s been shelled in this series. The pens outshot the Caps in every game. Blame the Goalie? That’s bullshit
i agree. there’s only so much one goalie can do against 5 guys shooting their lights out against him. this is on the Caps D. this is where we need to upgrade next year.
by RedskinFan4Life on May 13, 2009 8:56 PM EDT up reply actions
Sounds about right, but when a lot of them are cheapshit garbage Crosby goals, it bumps the stat while saying nothing about how it got that way. Varly’s been awesome for us this playoffs except for 2 games. It sucks that this is one of his let down games, but he’s been amazing. I hope the team shows their confidence in him over the off-season, no matter how tonight turns out.
by DrinkingPartner on May 13, 2009 8:51 PM EDT up reply actions
On another subject.
Is Neuvirth as good as I hear he is? Can he really compete with the new star in Washington??
I really want to see a true tandem. I think if Theo’d gotten in early this series to give Varly a rest, tonight may be different.
by DrinkingPartner on May 13, 2009 8:53 PM EDT up reply actions
maybe true. moot at this point, but you’d certainly like to see a true top D pair emerge for next year.
Yep, a lot of the goals were b/c of our inability to clear, which led to multiple
shots and then multiple rebounds
well since the new star in washington has an ENORMOUS five-hole, no real stickhandling ability, and now the psychological scarring of a game 7 blowout……yes, i’d guess the goalie position is not locked down for next year by any stretch.
by Natty Bumppo on May 13, 2009 8:53 PM EDT up reply actions
He had a great five hole only a couple of games ago. I think he’s tired beyond our understanding.
by DrinkingPartner on May 13, 2009 8:57 PM EDT up reply actions
no, i’m not blaming anything on varly. he has been put in a crap position with the SOG discrepancies and inability to clear the puck by the caps’ D. but i don’t think he’s earned the starting position outright for next year, and after the rangers series i was sure he had.
by Natty Bumppo on May 13, 2009 8:59 PM EDT up reply actions
Well, I’d say his enormous five-hole is compensated for with lightning quick butterfly style. The guy has amazing reflexes but as for the scarring… Well, let’s just say he’s pretty darn lucky he’s not in Montreal. :P
Yeah it is, at least I don’t have to bite my nails and cringe on the couch for over three hours. With this, I can just sit and bitch about the team without any stress.
The Capitals
Finding new ways to break your heart since 1974
Your favorite meme is dead
by Edanger6 on May 13, 2009 8:55 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
I guess either way you look at the situation, I am supposed to go visit my boys in Pittsburgh this weekend, and it seems that losing either way is going to make me the punchline of the party.
I’m with you. There is no threat of anything breaking in my apartment right now. A bad call won’t even phase me. No matter what happens I know we earned this loss. I’ve already had over an hour to start getting over it. I would have preferred a better effort but at least my soul won’t be torn out suddenly.
No matter what happens I know we earned this loss.
No kidding – the Caps are lucky to be in this game seven with all the extended periods of poor play they’ve had in these two series.
a silver lining: i think this will stick with them far longer than the lupul goal last year. if the blame for the poor showings in these past two game 7s goes to the players’ inexperience, then at least they’re learning the consequences in a dramatic way.
by Natty Bumppo on May 13, 2009 9:02 PM EDT up reply actions
I think they need to learn just not to take series’ to game seven. period. You can say what you want about the NHL playoffs being a marathon and not a sprint, but man, you need to get shit done as quickly as possible. And I’m sorry, the fact that they say they don’t wake up until their backs are against the wall just doesn’t cut it. One of the reasons being the fact that fatigue has looked like a huge factor in this series. Some nights it has seemed like the Pens have been buying real estate inside the Caps’ zone. Turnover the puck over repeatedly doesn’t help this team either.
already seeing some empty seats in the VC…..
by RedskinFan4Life on May 13, 2009 9:01 PM EDT reply actions
Dude, please. The team hasn’t shown a spark all night. What is gained by watching them lollygag around the ice for another period when you could get home early and get a little extra sleep for a work day tomorrow, spend time with your family, or do something that makes better use of your time?
Going into the 3rd period, there was still a chance at a comeback. If everybody leaves to go suckle their babies and get beauty sleep… well… how would you feel if you were out there, as a player, battling through a slump?!
I’m out.
HAIL TO THE CAPITALS !!!!
That sucks, but
they had to do it. It was pretty much their only option.
by DrinkingPartner on May 13, 2009 9:02 PM EDT reply actions
Come on Versus
Give it up on the Semin / Crosby comments.
Not looking forward to seeing the Caps eulogy on Yahoo
by RedskinFan4Life on May 13, 2009 9:04 PM EDT reply actions
Hell, I can love anyone if they’re playing Pittsburgh. I was rooting for Philly two weeks ago, for God’s sake!
by David Getz on May 13, 2009 9:05 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
I’m with you. The only question left is “who has a better chance to beat PIT?” I think it is BOS. Our lax defensive play gave them a lot of opportunities that the B’s won’t. Chara will probably be a little tougher on Crosby in the crease than Green was. Someone just needs to sucker punch a B to make sure they play mad.
My dad emailed me today
Saying he was excited that the wife was away and he didn’t have to watch the game during her commercials. Dad, I’m sorry you had to watch this crap.
Your favorite meme is dead
So when do we start to hear about the injury excuses?
“Well Mike Green had a fractured skull, Semin was playing on broken legs..” etc etc.
I mean
Clearly Green hasn’t been himself this postseason, and my guess is an injury.
So I don’t think it’s an excuse to learn the truth for why he may not have played well.
Yep
That’s how hockey works. The team won’t admit to an injury until after the season is over to avoid the other team going after a specific part of his body.
Flash is earning his non-check. Nice move.
by DrinkingPartner on May 13, 2009 9:07 PM EDT reply actions
Hey!
I can respect Crosby but I really, really don’t have to appreciate him.
didn't we just say that 5 minutes ago?
by RedskinFan4Life on May 13, 2009 9:08 PM EDT up reply actions
why wait till now? woulda liked to see that in the 1st
by RedskinFan4Life on May 13, 2009 9:11 PM EDT up reply actions
Not saying I understand it, just that it’s there.
by DrinkingPartner on May 13, 2009 9:11 PM EDT up reply actions
true…..
i wanna change that comment i just made……
woulda liked to see that in the 1st
game
by RedskinFan4Life on May 13, 2009 9:13 PM EDT up reply actions
So I just got home from work. Did I miss anything?
I have a blog too! www.scottyhockey.com
Let's Go Rangers!
Did you ever watch a Caps game in the early years of the millennium?
by CapitalCentre on May 13, 2009 9:10 PM EDT up reply actions
I used to love Ollie the goalie … does that count?
I have a blog too! www.scottyhockey.com
Let's Go Rangers!
by Scotty Hockey on May 13, 2009 9:11 PM EDT up reply actions
Gotcha. Making sure that didn’t lead down an alley none of us wanted.
by DrinkingPartner on May 13, 2009 9:12 PM EDT up reply actions
I still don’t see that as a bad move.
by David Getz on May 13, 2009 9:14 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
I hope not. I am liking this Dustin Penner rumour.
I have a blog too! www.scottyhockey.com
Let's Go Rangers!
by Scotty Hockey on May 13, 2009 9:10 PM EDT up reply actions
Gomez and a early round pick for Penner. Brooksie floated it in the Post … granted, Brooks once said the Rangers were trading the Ferraro brothers for Pavel Bure so who knows …
I have a blog too! www.scottyhockey.com
Let's Go Rangers!
by Scotty Hockey on May 13, 2009 9:12 PM EDT up reply actions
Brooks is about as credible as Eklund, and less fun to read.
by DrinkingPartner on May 13, 2009 9:13 PM EDT up reply actions
Exactly. The Pens won’t know what hit ’em.
by DrinkingPartner on May 13, 2009 9:10 PM EDT up reply actions
Unrelated to game:
I need to expand my jersey wardrobe.. do jersey prices go down in offseason at all? I wanted to grab Laich’s last season but I went the China route for a cheap Ovechkin (it’s actually not that bad).
Want to go official.. and Laich’s Crosby Face Punishment & Goal 300% cements my choice.
Best time to buy?
ebay, dude. player jerseys go for about 70.
by DrinkingPartner on May 13, 2009 9:15 PM EDT up reply actions
I saw a Laich on there once for about 90. Just keep an eye out, they do appear.
by DrinkingPartner on May 13, 2009 9:17 PM EDT up reply actions
Varly played good, but not great. I think OV was the best player - 11 goals in 7 games??..that’s good stuff…..
by RedskinFan4Life on May 13, 2009 9:17 PM EDT up reply actions
Varlamov was the savior of the 1st round, and he was just fine until this game in this round. Varlamov has been our 1A player next to Ovie.
by DrinkingPartner on May 13, 2009 9:18 PM EDT up reply actions
he’s given up at least 4 goals the last 3 games, so while he has been great, the last few games (while the defensemen were subpar as usual) he did not play that well then either
He would have had to have been the best goalie in the league to have dealt with that, though. He’s been more than for which we could’ve asked.
by DrinkingPartner on May 13, 2009 9:24 PM EDT up reply actions
look I am NOT making the usual “play Theo” argument, I am just saying that in the playoffs its like a NFL QB, you are the first to get the credit for wins and the first to shoulder the blame for losses. While I agree with the volume shooting, poor D play etc, the bottom line is that giving up 4 goals + is not a recipe for success. Further being 21, regardless how unflappable he seems, can’t help him within in those situations, and maybe he should have been pulled in game 4 and let him refuel and maybe he would have played differently down the stretch? But overall you are right, he has been good towards great as a whole these past few games included
two goals 8 seconds apart in the first
or do you mean walking into the room and turning on the TV ?
by RedskinFan4Life on May 13, 2009 9:16 PM EDT up reply actions
whats new about losing to the Pens in the playoffs?
by RedskinFan4Life on May 13, 2009 9:18 PM EDT up reply actions
All the Noobs
Needed to be schooled as to what it’s like being a Caps fan.
Your favorite meme is dead
by Edanger6 on May 13, 2009 9:18 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
worst thing about tonight is losing a game seven to that walking disaster waiting to happen MAF, and yet we were unable to do that!
by Theo60 on May 13, 2009 9:18 PM EDT reply actions 1 recs
Et tu Locker?
C’mon, we got dominated start to finish. You gotta go and give this game to MAF making the save on AO the “turning point.” How about the Adams goal, THAT was a turning point.
You’re right but meh, Varley played like a rookie for about 20 minutes. Shitty spot to do that. Still think that he should have got a game off in 4 or 5. He finally looked shell shocked for a good time there.
Game 3 I thought the disparity was at least partially on the refs. Today, they earned their PP disparity (and the playoff paychecks) today.
Hey, I’m not gonna say the refs have been great every game or anything, I just don’t believe in any conspiracy theory.
Interesting, I hadn’t noticed Green wasn’t on the ice.
by DrinkingPartner on May 13, 2009 9:21 PM EDT reply actions
To be more fair that I should be, I think we’re going to hear about a number of surgeries in the next few days, depending this game goes the way it seems.
by DrinkingPartner on May 13, 2009 9:22 PM EDT up reply actions
I don’t think he will get it now
by Citygirlcountryheart on May 13, 2009 9:25 PM EDT up reply actions
Yes, the entire playoffs. If he doesn't need surgery or something
after this season, then there’s no excuse for his play
Great News!
No more cupholders! No more Ameritel twins!
I just wish I could be saved by zeeeeeeeeeerrrrroooooooooooooooo.
I just couldn't it.
Couldn’t help sucker-punching Crosby. :I hehe
Indeed.
I want to hear them sing “See you in September (or October)”
by CapitalCentre on May 13, 2009 9:29 PM EDT up reply actions
No one who's been paying attention can say they didn't see that coming.
uhh...uhh...uhh...
by hotdog88gt on May 13, 2009 9:30 PM EDT reply actions 3 recs
I had a great time this year...it's up, up, up from here!
uhh...uhh...uhh...
by hotdog88gt on May 13, 2009 9:32 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
Gonchar and Ovie having a chat…..interesting…..
by RedskinFan4Life on May 13, 2009 9:32 PM EDT reply actions
So ... uh ...
Do you guys now all jump from the Caps bandwagon onto the Pens one?
I have a blog too! www.scottyhockey.com
Let's Go Rangers!
You the man Fehr, you the man.
I have a blog too! www.scottyhockey.com
Let's Go Rangers!
by Scotty Hockey on May 13, 2009 9:34 PM EDT up reply actions
And lord knows I have that.
I have a blog too! www.scottyhockey.com
Let's Go Rangers!
by Scotty Hockey on May 13, 2009 9:37 PM EDT up reply actions
Now hey! I won't have any of that Blueshirt trashtalk!
I just jumped on the Caps bandwagon, I’m gonna have to give them their chance at least. ;)
Ok, I’ll fess up — I left early and am home now. I was disgusted. If that makes me a bad fan, so be it.
can’t blame you there. not sure what i would have done myself. it would have been hard to stay and watch, that’s for sure.
by RedskinFan4Life on May 13, 2009 9:35 PM EDT up reply actions
If I’m gonna drop that kind of cash to attend a game, you better believe I stay until they usher me out. It’s a long summer.
I spent a lot — a lot — of money on the Caps this season. I didn’t need to get my money’s worth for this game.
Besides, the metro was a lot more tolerable without looking at all of the red-wearers in sullen faces.
by Scott in Shaw on May 13, 2009 9:49 PM EDT up reply actions
“It was the biggest battle I’ve ever been in for sure”
- Crosby
..up til that last 60 minutes anyway
by Icebat on May 13, 2009 9:33 PM EDT reply actions 1 recs
The Capitals
Finding new ways to break you hearts since 1974.
welcome to Caps fandom noobs.
Your favorite meme is dead
by Edanger6 on May 13, 2009 9:38 PM EDT reply actions 3 recs
Thanks to JP and Co. for a great move to SB Nation and an outstanding blog. I remember Japer’s Rink over on Blogger, with a handful of comments on any particular post. There’s definitely something to look forward to next season for the team and its bloggers.
by Mr. Boots on May 13, 2009 9:40 PM EDT reply actions 1 recs
well said
Thanks boys … tis been a pleasure to troll …
I have a blog too! www.scottyhockey.com
Let's Go Rangers!
by Scotty Hockey on May 13, 2009 9:41 PM EDT up reply actions
I'll see you all tomorrow, and will be waiting for injury reports. Night, everyone.
by DrinkingPartner on May 13, 2009 9:43 PM EDT reply actions
How come the fast forward button isn't working?
Is it July 1 yet?
by :hsughrofl: on May 13, 2009 9:45 PM EDT reply actions 1 recs
I actually think the number on priority should be forwards who are well-rounded – guys who are physical, good forecheckers, good defensive players, etc.
Wouldn’t the regular season show that we can beat any other team with the firepower we have? My feeling is that as long as they (forwards) feel well backed up, the sky is the limit.
It goes both ways – the defense would be a lot better with forwards who were better defensively themselves, who turn the puck over less, who forecheck and cycle better, and who take fewer penalties.
I don’t think they need to add a ton of offense – what they need are guys who can have (more or less) the productivity of Kozlov, Fedorov, and Fleischmann, but who contribute in other areas as well, making the team as a whole better.
The playoffs show that the regular season doesn’t matter. You need to be built for the playoffs. Kozlov and Flash can float around and sporadically (maybe streaky is the better word for Flash) contribute and expect to help this team go far. It was clear early in this series that either AO/Backstrom was going to carry this team to victory, or Steckel’s line was going to have a HUGE series and score at least a goal a game. That’s not fair to expect from that line. They did their job, and they pitched in some. The top 6 Forwards not named AO or Backstrom let the team down. That is where adding two way guys that battle are going to help. They don’t need more skill than Semin, they just need to go win the puck and know what to do with it.
I wasn’t so much bought on Backs performance. Certainly not on Semin’s no matter how much I like his skills. But Kozlov and Flash cannot continue on this team, I agree they are too weak. It was probably not the best move to let Cooke go. His toughness would be of incredible value for the team.
Definitely. Bradley = Toughness. Cooke = the reason there should be no instigator PIM.
by Rob Parker on May 13, 2009 10:13 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
Get rid of players who don’t fit the system. Nylander obviously, and maybe a couple of others. Get everyone on the same page.
by CapitalCentre on May 13, 2009 9:58 PM EDT up reply actions
Please be ready, Mr. Carlson.
Please cut the ties with a couple of the upcoming defensive FAs, GMGM.
I’d have less faith if he wasn’t a good player.
by :hsughrofl: on May 13, 2009 10:02 PM EDT up reply actions
Mike Green and Karl Alzner are good players. It’s not GMGM’s style to throw guys in the fire like that, and from a pragmatic perspective there are very few rookies that are good enough to step in and contribute on a contending team so quickly. I am tantalized by his potential, and I’d love it if he were that good that soon, but It’s not fair to expect him to solve the problems on the D corps.
I guess I didn’t really convey my feelings.
I’m not expecting some kind of stunning play… but you look at the current D corps.. is he by any means a downgrade?
by :hsughrofl: on May 13, 2009 10:11 PM EDT up reply actions
It’s impossible to say for sure – kids develop awfully fast at that age – but there’s a pretty good chance that he is.
I completely understand seasoning in Hershey and I fully support it, but the kid in me “wants it now.”
I know he’ll likely play the same role Alzner did in Hershey this year, coming up occasionally due to injury, but I look at the current D and I don’t see them getting any better without a personnel replacement, and therefore not getting past this stage.
It’s just unfortunate that it’s likely to take 2+ years before we have a decent defense.
by :hsughrofl: on May 13, 2009 10:18 PM EDT up reply actions
I still think the Capitals defense is pretty good, but there’s reason to think they’ll get better. Green and Schultz are 23, and Jurcina’s 25.
And Erskine is only 28 and seemed to really find a role on the team and play with a purpose this season. That extension looks better now than it did when it was signed. I think we have some pieces to work with on D.
Seemed like he fizzled out a bit as this series went on, but he certainly cemented his spot for next season.
Pieces though… a couple more are still missing from the puzzle.
by :hsughrofl: on May 13, 2009 10:29 PM EDT up reply actions
D mature slower, etc etc.
Green will need to raise his defensive game to be taken seriously next season. Jurcina has looked so good and so bad at times.. I don’t really know what to say about him.
Don’t get me started on Schultz. :)
by :hsughrofl: on May 13, 2009 10:27 PM EDT up reply actions
I don’t know what to think about Jurcina. Before the playoffs I was ready to write him off, now I think he could be a top four guy if he can just (1) stop being so inconsistent and (2) take fewer penalties.
As for Schultz, where the guy is right now given his age, frame, and position is both impressive and encouraging.
I want Schultz to succeed.. I really do. I’m hoping for one hell of an offseason for him (assuming resign, etc. RFA I believe).
by :hsughrofl: on May 13, 2009 10:31 PM EDT up reply actions
On that note, the inconsistent play of these guys should keep them cheap going into 2009/2010!
by :hsughrofl: on May 13, 2009 10:32 PM EDT up reply actions
That is true. If Juice had played the way he did in the playoffs all season he’d be much more expensive.
by Carl Putnam on May 13, 2009 10:50 PM EDT up reply actions
I would agree. D aquitted themselves well this playoffs. GIven that the forwards didn’t do their job repeatedly I think it was even more impressive. Juice and Erskine played much better than expected.
As far as Schultz, if I never see him in a Caps uni again it will be too soon. I can only imagine how many more goals the Pens would have scored on him. Like I’ve said before, seems like a nice guy, just not a good hockey player. If you are going to be that slow, you had better be physical.
by Carl Putnam on May 13, 2009 10:29 PM EDT up reply actions
I disagree. He was our best defender against Malkin all year. How often did you see Malkin use his reach to get around Caps, even at slow speed? Schultz neutralizes that advantage. Positioning, intelligence, and stick work can go a long way even if he never puts anyone through the boards.
Agreed.
I’ve always felt people got fixed on Schultz because of his height (he’s not all that big, really, especially for his size). If the guy were 6’, 180 and played the exact same game, people would like him.
but..but.. Caps forums told me he’s not good!
:P
by :hsughrofl: on May 13, 2009 10:43 PM EDT up reply actions
No, then I’d complain about his skating even more. :-)
by Carl Putnam on May 13, 2009 10:49 PM EDT up reply actions
He’s a good player, but he’s also a 19 year old defenseman who’s played seven or eight professional games, none of which have been in the NHL. The odds he comes in and plays better than the Capitals pending FA defenseman (Jurcina and Morrisonn) aren’t all that great.
Well, being the economist, you would realize that even if he couldn’t play as well as Shamo, if he could give us 14 quality minutes a game and save us about 2 million dollars we could use the difference on another player that would help in another area. But yeah, depending on his signing bonus he won’t be much cheaper than Juice and he won’t be able to bring that experience and durability to the table.
That’s OK. With Potsy back we already have 8 potential D next year in the system. At least one has to go, if we want to add a top end D then two have to go. I can’t imagine Shamo won’t be the first numbers casualty.
I’d like to see the team move Pothier, though I hate to say it. I love what he’s done but given what the team has right now and how close they are to the cap, he just makes too much.
:( I liked Pothier and his play far more than Mo, Schultz, Jurcina, etc.
Sounded like he took Alzner under his wing this season too.
by :hsughrofl: on May 13, 2009 10:20 PM EDT up reply actions
Bruce's Postgame Conference
Just said Green was hurt during the playoffs, but didn’t want to get into it right now because it would sound like an excuse for how the team played.
In other breaking news, the sky is blue :) I don’t think anyone’s surprised by this.
by :hsughrofl: on May 13, 2009 10:01 PM EDT up reply actions
Certainly agree with that. And unless I misunderstood, he implied that Ovie was hurt as well.
by SilentAlarm on May 13, 2009 10:03 PM EDT up reply actions
Green was hurt. No way (dripping sarcsam). Hmm, what was the hint. The way he moved his shoulder left and right to avoid contact, the fact that his passes and slapper had nothing on them, and the fact that he looked mentally lost 75% of the time.
One of these days coaches and GM’s are going to learn that playing injured players in the playoffs doesn’t work. I’m seen this way too many times.
Look at the Pens I thought both guys they added when Gonch went down acquitted themselves very well. 100% of a lesser player is actually better than 75% of a good player.
by Carl Putnam on May 13, 2009 10:14 PM EDT up reply actions
I think it may be both ankle and shoulder. It looked like he was protecting his shoulders all playoffs long.
by Carl Putnam on May 13, 2009 10:17 PM EDT up reply actions
Anybody take a good look at Beagle just from an assessment perspective at the end there when he was logging real minutes?. He was a mess but that was garbage time in a garbage game.
Beagle does nothing for me. I still have no clue as to why they wouldn’t commit to Aucoin this playoff season. He does exactly what this team lacked – backchecks and goes to the net. At least he helped the Bears last night.
by Carl Putnam on May 13, 2009 10:15 PM EDT up reply actions
At least he helped the Bears last night.
The best reason to leave him in Hershey. He couldn’t have changed game 7, even though I agree and I love what he brings to the table.
Well he sure as hell outplayed Nylander, but I suppose that’s not saying much.
by :hsughrofl: on May 13, 2009 10:22 PM EDT up reply actions
My problem was that he wasn’t in the lineup in game 1 against the Rags and on.
We all agreed that playing him tonight wouldn’t be smart. You don’t want to drop a guy in Game 7.
by Carl Putnam on May 13, 2009 10:18 PM EDT up reply actions
Beagle does nothing for me. I still have no clue as to why they wouldn’t commit to Aucoin this playoff season.
Because Aucoin’s going to be 31 in November and, save for a two week stretch in DC, hasn’t shown he’s an NHL player, and it’s hard for him to contribute physically, he’s bad on faceoffs, and he doesn’t have a reputation as being a very good defensive player.
Aucoin played well with CAR last season when he got a shot, as well. The knock against him is size. Same for Borque. But when I watch those guys I see heart. What’s the point of having the biggest team in the league if they don’t want to commit to banging and using their bodies? Give me the guy that wants to get in the corner and retrieve the puck. Give me Maxime Talbot, not Thomas Fleischmann.
/Rudy Chant
Certainly his size doesn’t help matter, but I always thought the knock on Aucoin was that he didn’t bring besides third/fourth line offense, i.e., he’s not great on defense and doesn’t win faceoffs.
When he played for the Canes I kept seeing him drive to the cage. When he played in DC all I saw was him driving to the cage.
he doesn’t have a reputation as being a very good defensive player
He’d fit in great with our top forwards.
by Carl Putnam on May 13, 2009 10:21 PM EDT up reply actions
I still think Aucoin has an outside shot at a roster spot, and he deserves one, but it’d be a big mistake for the team to commit to him at this point.
I’m pretty sure he’s getting a spot next year because of their cap situation. Same reason I expect Flash back.
by Carl Putnam on May 13, 2009 10:24 PM EDT up reply actions
Negatives -
Top 6 forwards – This series was lost mainly because their top 6 guys competed harder than Caps top 6 did. I would argue that Ovi and Baks did their part for the most part, though Ovi needs to do more on defensive end (A chat with Stevie Y is in order). The other 4 did not consistently. Semin, who I assume was hurt, absolutely was a disaster in this series in every facet. Turnovers, no backchecking, and refusal to drive to the net again and again.
Positives to take from this run -
Defense overall played better than advertised. If they can ever learn to take the guy without the puck on 2 on 1’s I really think they’d be solid. I admit that DMG was right in his beleif that our D was better than many of us thought going in.
Laich, Steckel, Bradley played well and frankly should have gotten more ice time given their work rate compared to top 6 guys not named Backstrom.
Varly was solid. I had a friend say to me tonight that this series reminded him of Olie’s days of being in a shooting gallery. I agreed. With Neuvy and Holtby in the wings I have little to no concern about goaltending in the future.
Youth – the core of the team is extremely young. If they learn the right lessons from the last 2 postseasons then the future is indeed bright.
I have said it before. This team is a bit ahead of schedule in my mind. The Cup window really opens 2-3 years down the road.
by Carl Putnam on May 13, 2009 10:48 PM EDT reply actions 1 recs
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