Friday Caps Clips: Quintin Laing Is Tougher Than You Are
by J.P. on Sep 18, 2009 6:45 AM EDT
in Caps Clips
205 comments
Your savory breakfast links:
- Video of the goals from last night's win. [YouTube]
- Here's Corey's game file and recaps from In the Room, Capitals Insider, Ed Frankovic's Blog, Cap Centre, Puckhead's Thoughts.
- Post game video from Bruce Boudreau, Brian Pothier and Mike Knuble. [Caps365 (video)]
- "If I'm healthy, I'm going to try to play. That's what I do: I play hockey." Quintin Laing is so money. [Washington Post]
- Laing is definitely "on the radar." [In The Room]
- He gets the pucksandbooks treatment today as well. [OFB]
- There are plenty of candidates for the Caps' vacant "A"... [In The Room]
- ... including jack-of-all-trades Brooks Laich... [Washington Times]
- ... even if the Caps have the fewest current and former "C's" in the NHL. [Empty Netters]
- CapsChick narrows her pick for that assistant captaincy to two. [VFtCS]
- Adam Proteau picks the Caps to win the East. [The Hockey News]
- NHL2K10's ad campaign is quite Cap-py (not surprising, given their cover boy). [First Cuts]
- Some great shots of the guys that were left behind to practice in Arlington yesterday. [Caps In Pictures]
- Bruce Boudreau hates cheese so much he won't even eat in a restuarant named "Cheddars." This might explain why Daren Machesney is no longer with the organization. [NBC4]
- Brett Leonhardt now has a mask that's nearly as cool as his story... but not quite. [Bog]
- Is the real battle in goal not between Jose Theodore and Semyon Varlamov but Varly and Michal Neuvirth? [Stack the Pads]
- The Boss on the goaltending situation. [Ted's Take]
- When Sergei Fedorov was done in D.C., he was done in the NHL. [Examiner]
- Vote for Alex Ovechkin as one of the top 49 most influential men of 2009. Or don't. [Ask Men]
- Steinz on AO's birthday (with a little nugget, perhaps - sounds like Alex won't be playing Saturday night in Chitown). [Bog]
- Comcastic pieces on Mike Green and an appearance by Tarik on WaPo Live. [Welcome to the Show]
- Trevor Bruess and Joe Finley talk pond hockey. [OFB]
- Sid vs. Geno vs. Alex. Again. Yawn. [The Hockey News]
- The Bears have released their training camp schedule. [Patriot News]
- Finally, happy 43rd birthday to Cap-for-17-games Tom Chorske.
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Thanks for the Fedorov video. It’s great to see him skate again, though it brings back the dreadful sense of loss. He looks happy, but it’s sad to think of him ending his playing days in an empty barn, when we’re halfway around the block, waiting to get in. With the shorter season there, perhaps he could return in time for the playoffs. I can dream, anyway.
Thanks for both Feds videos. Two notes:
1. In the KHL vid, note the editorial comment in the little red box at upper left.
2a. Feds is/was a wonder on his skates, no?
2b. When Sergei hit the net in Rangers Game 7, watching AO accelerate and make a beeline to be the first to bury Feds in a giant pile of Caps is something to see. Could watch that all day.
IS PAЯTY NOW
sounds like Alex won’t be playing Saturday night in Chitown
In related news, 52 sounds like he’s making the flight.
"Why the [frak] would I live to 100? I'm 73 and [stuff's] starting to get boring. By the way, there's no money left when I go, just FYI."
I love QLaing as much as the next guy, but how does he replace Flash of Fehr? Seems to me that a Beagle or Bourque are a better fit there. Is there really much of a shot that Laing will make the opening day roster?
Laing is more a replacement for Brashear. Chris Clark or Alex Giroux seem to be the top candidates to replace Flash/Fehr, with Bourque and Aucoin also in the mix.
Atta dinnin stick a who!
by Gould Old Days on Sep 18, 2009 9:12 AM EDT up reply actions
I may have mentioned this before, but the guy who knows the Bears the best, John Walton, said this summer that Laing was the most likely Bear to make the Caps this season. According to Walton, Laing has always been Bruce’s favorite player and with such a cap friendly contract he fits perfectly into the team’s salary structure. Based on everything that’s being said, it looks like Laing might actually have to play his way off the team and not the reverse.
Haha!
This little comment of mine might become a reality then:
1. Steckel
2. Semin
3. Backstrom
4. Knuble
5. Morrison
6. Bonus: Laing
Take that F&B!
Comment first, think second, read third.
Is that the ranking of best defensive forwards on the Caps?
A man must have a code.
by Fehr and Balanced on Sep 18, 2009 2:30 PM EDT up reply actions
I forget what the take that is for.
A man must have a code.
by Fehr and Balanced on Sep 18, 2009 3:52 PM EDT up reply actions
The Peerless enjoyed Knuble’s thigh-goal:
Kanoobie, the Ugly Goal Rally Mutt, approves…
That’s fantastic. Please tell me this will be a recurring feature.
Atta dinnin stick a who!
Btw, an early Happy New Year to all of my fellow chosen peeps.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
Cheers
Atta dinnin stick a who!
by Gould Old Days on Sep 18, 2009 9:25 AM EDT up reply actions 3 recs
And Mike Cammalleri and Mathieu Schneider. And Peter Mueller. But not Eric Fehr.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
Trevor Bruess… not a Jew…
but guess who is, Hall of Famer Rod Langw…. DAMN! Carew is really the only one that rhymes…
Why am I hearing an Adam Sandler song in my head?
If you've read this far...seek help.
by ThePeerless on Sep 18, 2009 10:46 AM EDT up reply actions
?
"Why the [frak] would I live to 100? I'm 73 and [stuff's] starting to get boring. By the way, there's no money left when I go, just FYI."
by Bald Pollack on Sep 18, 2009 10:48 AM EDT up reply actions
what is it about you/ that makes Greg so Joly?
Is it your 50 cotton, or your 50 poly—swea-eh-ehtshirt.
Thanks for nuttin BP. It’s gonna take Roger Doucet to get that out of my head
by redlineblue on Sep 18, 2009 10:59 AM EDT up reply actions
Yeah, I figured that would happen.
Slightly related, and not to pull a Simmons, but go to the old YouTube of Rexall Place during the Ducks/Oil playoff series for the “O Canada” singing. That or Marvin Gaye doing the Star Spangled Banner at the ’83 (I think) NBA All-Star Game usually does it for me.
"Why the [frak] would I live to 100? I'm 73 and [stuff's] starting to get boring. By the way, there's no money left when I go, just FYI."
by Bald Pollack on Sep 18, 2009 11:05 AM EDT up reply actions
Likewise.
"Camaraderie, that's what the Washington Capitals are all about."
by CapitalCentre on Sep 18, 2009 12:48 PM EDT up reply actions
And a happy new year to you too
"Baseball is drama with an endless run and an ever-changing cast." - Joe Garagiola
Chowdah Chatter - an outlet for my random thoughts and such.
Nylander
Has anyone here that’s been going to camp/practices noticed anything positive coming from Nylander? Does it appear that he is trying to change his game up a little bit to jive better with the caps system? I’ve always thought he is a great player and if he could fit in somehow would make the caps very dangerous up the middle. Thoughts?
Frankly, I think that ship has sailed. But we shall see. One thing I can say for certain, though, is that he continues to handle this as professionally as can be expected. Moreso, in fact.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
by J.P. on Sep 18, 2009 9:45 AM EDT up reply actions 4 recs
I couldn’t agree more. How he’s avoided saying anything even remotely damning is beyond me.
by David M. Getz on Sep 18, 2009 9:48 AM EDT up reply actions
His game hasn’t changed a bit. He’s still holding onto the puck way too long, circling in the offensive zone and eventually turning it over. In other words, his play is as maddening as ever. He says he’s ten pounds heavier, but from what I’ve seen he’s still getting outmuscled in the corners. Unless he heads to Russia, I can’t see another team in the NHL wanting him at any price.
From the THN article:
The Capitals play in the league’s weakest division.
Tampa Bay’s godawful circus of a season nonwithstanding, two playoff teams (one of which made the conference finals) and another that barely missed doesn’t seem like the worst division in hockey to me. I feel like the Pacific was at least as bad, if not worse. Why does this still seem to be the overriding opinion in the media?
Why does this still seem to be the overriding opinion in the media?
I think part of it has to do with the fact that teams who are bad in the Southeast haven’t just been bad: they’ve been God-awful and terribly run.
When it comes to the Pacific, though, I think people look at Phoenix and Los Angeles and see a lot of young talent that has the potential to be very good very soon.
by David M. Getz on Sep 18, 2009 10:25 AM EDT up reply actions
When it comes to the Pacific, though, I think people look at Phoenix and Los Angeles and see a lot of young talent that has the potential to be very good very soon.
The same thing could be said of Tampa… between Stamkos and Hedman, they’ve got two strong young players. A healthy Lecavalier will go a long way to helping them out, and the (hopeful) lack of ownership and coaching drama means they shouldn’t be anywhere near as bad as last season.
The only team in the SE I can see getting worse this year is Atlanta.
by Murshawursha on Sep 18, 2009 10:38 AM EDT up reply actions
The Capitals play in the league’s weakest division.
Holy talking out of both sides of your mouth, Adam. Proteau calls the diivision terrible and then predicts three teams from the SE will make the playoffs. Huh?
I don’t think that’s inconsistent, just that he doesn’t think too highly of the bottom two teams.
by David M. Getz on Sep 18, 2009 10:51 AM EDT up reply actions
The only team in the SE that I think is relatively weak is Atlanta and even they have a lot of talented young players. Carolina is always good, Tampa is going to be much improved and Florida finished with 93 points last season and should be tough this year. Top to bottom, the SE is a very competitive division and winning it won’t be easy. There certainly aren’t any gift points like the Atlantic will have with the Islanders or the Northwest will have with Colorado.
I don’t disagree that the division will be better, I’m just saying that I don’t see an inherent contradiction in Proteau’s logic.
Top to bottom, the SE is a very competitive division and winning it won’t be easy. There certainly aren’t any gift points like the Atlantic will have with the Islanders or the Northwest will have with Colorado.
Even with the Islanders in the Atlantic, that’s a stronger division and it isn’t even close. I’d give the Northwest the edge of the Southeast too, because they only way I see the SE being as strong is if everything works out for all four non-Capitals teams, and I don’t think that’s going to happen.
What I see in the Southeast is the Capitals and four teams in the middle of the bell curve. The bottom one or two might not be as bad as other divisions but their #2 and #3 teams aren’t as good (with the possible exception of the Northeast).
by David M. Getz on Sep 18, 2009 11:14 AM EDT up reply actions
I see your point, but I really believe you’re underestimating Carolina. I see them as one of the top 5-6 teams in the conference and I think they and the Caps will be fighting for the division down to the end. As much as I hate to say it, I think Tampa is going to surprise a lot of people and could easily have the biggest upswing of any team in the league. To me Caps-Carolina may not be quite as good a combo as Pitt-Philly or Det-Chi, but they’re right up ther with everyone else.
I think they’re strong against Boston, NJ, and us. I don’t think they’re that strong against anyone else in particular. I don’t doubt they’ll make the playoffs, but they don’t seem capable of dominating the league in the fashion that we are.
by DrinkingPartner on Sep 18, 2009 11:27 AM EDT up reply actions
To me Caps-Carolina may not be quite as good a combo as Pitt-Philly or Det-Chi, but they’re right up ther with everyone else.
Fair, but what about after that? Who’s even third in the Southeast? Whomever it is, I think they’re worse than or on par with the third best team in every other division.
by David M. Getz on Sep 18, 2009 11:30 AM EDT up reply actions
Why no respect for the Panthers? I’d say they’re better than the Sabres and at least on par with every other team that doesn’t play in the Central or Atlantic.
by Murshawursha on Sep 18, 2009 11:32 AM EDT up reply actions
I think that’s pushing it, especially since JBouw is gone. Florida has always played us pretty well, but, as I just said about Carolina, don’t play everyone else very well.
by DrinkingPartner on Sep 18, 2009 11:33 AM EDT up reply actions
Fair. J-Bow is a big loss.
I’d argue they have the strongest goaltending in the division though. And their forwards certainly aren’t flashy, but they tend to get the job done.
by Murshawursha on Sep 18, 2009 11:36 AM EDT up reply actions
If the Sabres have their goalie all year, they’re clearly better than the Cats
Atta dinnin stick a who!
by Gould Old Days on Sep 18, 2009 12:22 PM EDT up reply actions
Based on last season, point-wise Florida was as good as any other third place team in the NHL aside from Philly. Yeah, they lost J-Bo, but the way he tanked after the trade deadline makes me believe there may be some addition by subtraction going on. And their young players are really starting to come around. Again, I really think Tampa’s going to surprise a lot of people this year.
I’ll be interested to see JBo after a full year in Calgary, though. One thing I’ll say is that i don’t think he’ll be mediocre: he’ll either rocket or tank, no inbetween, IMO.
by DrinkingPartner on Sep 18, 2009 11:41 AM EDT up reply actions
Calgary’s defense is straight up scary this year.
by Murshawursha on Sep 18, 2009 11:41 AM EDT up reply actions
They were 28-23-7 (89 points over 82 games) outside the Southeast last year and lost their best player. Plus I think Clemmenson’s unlikely to be as good as Anderson was.
by David M. Getz on Sep 18, 2009 11:38 AM EDT up reply actions
The same thing could be said of Tampa… between Stamkos and Hedman, they’ve got two strong young players.
But Los Angeles and Phoenix finished 13 points ahead of Tampa last year.
by David M. Getz on Sep 18, 2009 10:51 AM EDT up reply actions
Wanna bet that margin is a whole lot smaller this year?
Vinny had a terrible ‘08-’09. I guarantee he won’t be that bad again. Stamkos will get better. They’ll actually have a defense. They won’t spend the first ~20 games of the year with Barry Melrose’s hair as head coach. Mike Smith is hopefully over his PCS by now. And the odds of them getting anywhere near as injured-screwed as they did last season are almost nothing. The off-ice distractions in general will hopefully be kept to a minimum. Any way you slice it, they’re going to be better.
LA’ll be much better too. Phoenix, I’m not so sold on, especially with the ownership issues they’re having.
by Murshawursha on Sep 18, 2009 11:07 AM EDT up reply actions
Wasn’t he one of those guys that got a contract solely based on his playoff performance?
by Murshawursha on Sep 18, 2009 11:15 AM EDT up reply actions
His contract value was because of the playoffs, but he was going to get a decent deal regardless. Anyway, as J.P. pointed out earlier in the off-season, experience is important for D, and Scuderi definitely has it and that should help a young LAK D corps. Doughty and JJ will be better, and they may have more help coming through the ranks (Teubert, Hickey). All the reasons TBL may be better apply to LAK as well, and I think LAK is a deeper team.
A man must have a code.
by Fehr and Balanced on Sep 18, 2009 2:54 PM EDT up reply actions
O’Donnell may be the most underrated player in hockey.
Atta dinnin stick a who!
by Gould Old Days on Sep 18, 2009 5:55 PM EDT up reply actions
Yeah he’s one of them.
A man must have a code.
by Fehr and Balanced on Sep 18, 2009 6:00 PM EDT up reply actions
The off-ice distractions in general will hopefully be kept to a minimum. Any way you slice it, they’re going to be better.
I don’t disagree, but Phoenix and Los Angeles have already demonstrated respectability and should keeping trending upwards, so that’s going to be an awful lot to catch.
by David M. Getz on Sep 18, 2009 11:16 AM EDT up reply actions
Kings should be better, possibly a lot better.
How can the Coyotes not be much, much worse with all their uncertainty?
Atta dinnin stick a who!
by Gould Old Days on Sep 18, 2009 11:31 AM EDT up reply actions
Because they have Sami Lepisto now, duh!
I’m not as sold on Phoenix but they have so many young players I think they should at least be level.
by David M. Getz on Sep 18, 2009 11:32 AM EDT up reply actions
This is one of those cases where I don’t think personnel matters much. Their head coach has been absent because of all the uncertainty. They’ll be playing to an empty building. It almost can’t go well.
The fact that they’re young makes it even worse. This could be a situation like the Nordiques becoming the Avalanche — they move next year and have instant success because of those young talented players. But this year? I’m not seeing it.
Atta dinnin stick a who!
by Gould Old Days on Sep 18, 2009 12:24 PM EDT up reply actions
Or… they band together like that rag-tag bunch of Injuns in “Major League” and win the pennant!
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
They’ve got a better shot at that than making it into the NHL playoffs.
by DrinkingPartner on Sep 18, 2009 12:26 PM EDT up reply actions
I don’t see a naked picture of Bettmann or Basille motivating anyone to play better hockey.
by Sct112 on Sep 18, 2009 12:29 PM EDT up reply actions 2 recs
Are you saying Jesus Christ can’t stop a slap shot?
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
by J.P. on Sep 18, 2009 12:30 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
So who is Dorn?
A man must have a code.
by Fehr and Balanced on Sep 18, 2009 2:55 PM EDT up reply actions
TBL’s D corps still needs to gel together. That’s not going to be instantaneous. I’m not entirely sold on Tocchet as a coach. Mike Smith being over his PCS is a huge if. Bottom line, as the 3 or 4 team in the SE I like the corresponding team in the Pacific better (3-DAL, 4-LAK).
A man must have a code.
by Fehr and Balanced on Sep 18, 2009 2:52 PM EDT up reply actions
But PHX and LAK (especially LAK) were in the playoff hunt for most of last year; ATL and TBL were done by Thanksgiving.
A man must have a code.
by Fehr and Balanced on Sep 18, 2009 2:37 PM EDT up reply actions
Last year:
Sharks ≈ Caps
Canucks ≈ Canes
Anaheim > anyone else in the southeast
Calgary > anyone else in the southeast
Kings > Tampa or Atlanta
Atta dinnin stick a who!
by Gould Old Days on Sep 18, 2009 10:26 AM EDT up reply actions
Which would be great if those teams were in the pacific division. Let’s try that again.
Sharks ≈ Caps
Anaheim ≈ Canes
Kings ≈ Florida
Yotes ≈ Tampa
Stars ≈ Atlanta
I see your point…
Atta dinnin stick a who!
by Gould Old Days on Sep 18, 2009 10:28 AM EDT up reply actions
What point are you seeing? That lineup makes the SE look better than the Pacific? I don’t see it. I also don’t think it’s really fair to have DAL in the 5 hole. They are really the 3 spot in the Pacific and that adjustment makes it nearly a clean sweep for the Pacific.
A man must have a code.
by Fehr and Balanced on Sep 18, 2009 2:57 PM EDT up reply actions
I’m having trouble believing the Flames were better than anyone in the Southeast. Even with a close loss, err, and a wasted nine minute powerplay. Yikes!
Flames made the playoffs with 98 points…
Atta dinnin stick a who!
by Gould Old Days on Sep 18, 2009 12:29 PM EDT up reply actions
… despite being coached by Mike Keenan.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
The Pacific will be a lot better if Anaheim doesn’t slump for 60 games and Dallas doesn’t have horrible luck with injuries again, and LA’s emergence will be a bonus. The Central almost fielded 5 playoff teams. The Atlantic is solid except for New York (I are bad, R are fragile). The Northeast I think is the weakest, with one powerhouse (Boston) and four borderline teams IMO, three of whom the jury is still out on. The Northwest has two pretty good teams, two borderline, and one bad. I’d say the SE is in the running.
by red army line on Sep 18, 2009 10:27 AM EDT up reply actions
I feel like the Pacific was at least as bad, if not worse.
That’s gotta be a joke. Team to team the Pacific dominates the SE. PHX and LAK were two of the most talented non-playoff teams in the league, and would eat ATL/TBL alive. DAL makes the playoffs if they don’t get terrible goaltending from Turdco and ridiculously bad luck with injuries; and they are probably better than FLA. SJS won the President’s trophy and ANA is much better than CAR. I would look at the Northwest before the Pacific. You could also say that the Northeast is nothing special after BOS.
A man must have a code.
by Fehr and Balanced on Sep 18, 2009 2:36 PM EDT up reply actions
I hope he gets another stint on the bench just to show that off in warm-ups.
by DrinkingPartner on Sep 18, 2009 10:31 AM EDT up reply actions
…with Babe Laufenberg in the stands watching…
"Why the [frak] would I live to 100? I'm 73 and [stuff's] starting to get boring. By the way, there's no money left when I go, just FYI."
by Bald Pollack on Sep 18, 2009 10:56 AM EDT up reply actions
"I think Varly was outstanding the first two periods," Coach Bruce Boudreau said. "They got [three] in the third, but I thought he was really good."
This is a tad harsh in my view. After watching the YouTube highlights, I fault Varly for only the one miss, the long range apparently deflected, but still saveable one. The Buffs’ third, sheesh, the guy was all alone four feet in front of him for a half an hour or so. Who were the two D on the ice for that shi(f)t?
“I thought he was really good.”
That’s harsh?
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
You’re missing the “but” in front of that. It felt like a backhanded compliment, more than anything.
by DrinkingPartner on Sep 18, 2009 11:00 AM EDT up reply actions
I thought the “but” referred to the fact that, in spite of the team (note: “they got” not “he allowed”) giving up three in the third, Varly was really good on the night.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
The fact that he references the first two periods is what gets me: he’s singling out the 3rd period, and then uses “but, I thought he was really good.”
Sounds odd to me, but there’s also no evidence of the intonation he used.
by DrinkingPartner on Sep 18, 2009 11:12 AM EDT up reply actions
I think you’re reading too much into this. He was outstanding in the first two periods, was less than outstanding in the third, but overall was really good. I don’t see it as any more than that.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
Exactly, if anything I think it was a preemptive defense of Varly.
Comment first, think second, read third.
There does seem to be a lot of jumpiness when it comes to defending Varly. I want him to succeed just like everyone else, but if anyone is better than him, let that guy play.
I don’t think Bruce will think twice about playing the right goalie for the situation. See last years playoffs for an example. That was one of the guttiest things I’ve seen a Caps coach do.
Comment first, think second, read third.
And again, it’s a hell of a lot more important who the #1 guy is in April than in October.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
No. Most important is who’s #1 in June.
"Baseball is drama with an endless run and an ever-changing cast." - Joe Garagiola
Chowdah Chatter - an outlet for my random thoughts and such.
I agree with this.
A man must have a code.
by Fehr and Balanced on Sep 18, 2009 3:00 PM EDT up reply actions
You’re right. I ought to give Big Boo credit for straight talk. I initially read that as ""I think Varly was outstanding the first two periods. I thought he sucked in the third."
Only in DC could a sentence from a post-game in September be parsed within an inch of its participle.
If you've read this far...seek help.
by ThePeerless on Sep 18, 2009 11:23 AM EDT up reply actions
The connotation of his statements is important, I tell you!
by DrinkingPartner on Sep 18, 2009 11:25 AM EDT up reply actions
I find that when I watch video of Boudreau, I often end up with a very different impression of what he was trying to say than when I just read the words…
Atta dinnin stick a who!
by Gould Old Days on Sep 18, 2009 12:08 PM EDT up reply actions
The Buffs’ third, sheesh, the guy was all alone four feet in front of him for a half an hour or so. Who were the two D on the ice for that shi(f)t?
Calrson and Alzner. Carlson lost a puck battle to Gerbe (all 5’5" of him) and Alzner was in no-man’s land out front. Backstrom didn’t help much by chasing behind the net.
A man must have a code.
by Fehr and Balanced on Sep 18, 2009 2:59 PM EDT up reply actions
Is the real battle in goal not between Jose Theodore and Semyon Varlamov but Varly and Michal Neuvirth?
No. Why do certain people look for every opportunity to question Varlamov?
Russian Machine Never Breaks
Because there are questions about Varlamov (and Neuvirth and Theodore, of course).
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
JP, you know how I mean. The article is basically another needle on Varly suggesting that somehow his potential is limited based on factors like conditioning (stop) and style (Hasek?)
We’ll see what happens when it’s Varly and Neuvy next season.
Russian Machine Never Breaks
To be fair, a lot of the article is based on what people in/close to the organization are saying.
I think it’s as much praising Neuvirth as it is questioning Varlamov. No one denies he looked real good last season and has a good pedigree – but so did/does Veuvirth.
by David M. Getz on Sep 18, 2009 11:31 AM EDT up reply actions
I, for one, am still concerned about his conditioning. Goaltending that many games in the NHL takes an unimaginable toll on the body. Not to mention the 1000s of practice shots faced each week.
Comment first, think second, read third.
From what I’ve heard and seen, he’s quite athletic. If anything, that’s the type of guy you want playing for you through the month of June.
From what I’ve heard and seen, he’s quite athletic. If anything, that’s the type of guy you want playing for you through the month of June.
Why’s that? Plenty of goalies have been successful in the post-season without being Dominik Hasek. Assuming that the alternative to “athletic” is “positionally sound,” I’m not sure there’s really anything to support the notion that one is more viable than the other.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
I wasn’t really calling out the “positionally sound” goalie. I was just shedding postive light on his athletic “feature.”
I’m a huge Varly fan – however, I feel the need to jump in on this one. The athletic thing is actually what hurt him last year when he started playing in North America. He overplayed everything and used too much energy when he started out in Hershey. Granted, he’s improved since then, but one of the biggest challenges Bob Woods faced with him was getting him to stop burning all his energy so quickly by trying to do “too much” just because he could. It made him worthless the next day – and in an AHL schedule where you pretty much live & breathe 3 games in 3 nights or 4 games in 5 nights – it hindered his development.
by OverTheBoards on Sep 18, 2009 2:59 PM EDT up reply actions
Why do certain people look for every opportunity to question Varlamov?
Two words: Jim Carey.
by b.orr4 on Sep 18, 2009 11:27 AM EDT up reply actions 2 recs
Michal Neuvirth, in their words and in mine, has a style of play that in theory may be better suited for the long haul of an NHL season. His stance and movements are more compact and technically put less stress on his body.
Varlamov has a different style. It can be VERY effective but many feel it makes you prone to injuring your groin, hips, or lower body in general. Now, to counter that, Semyon has specifically mention that he has worked on his lower body strength and stretching in order to help avoid injuries.
That’s why.
Mike and Stretch also commented on how although Neuvirth may be equally capable in net as Varly, right now he isn’t doing anything above him or better than him to warrant replacing him on the roster. Plus, Varlamov did a lot for the franchise last year in the playoffs and he deserves to hold a spot on the team.
That’s the caveat.
by David M. Getz on Sep 18, 2009 11:28 AM EDT up reply actions
In other words, the same bologna we’ve been hearing for the past year, this time brought to you by so called goaltending experts Mike Vogel and a guy who played college hockey.
Neuvirth has potential, I don’t see why it always has to be suggested as such by knocking Varlamov.
Russian Machine Never Breaks
In other words, the same bologna we’ve been hearing for the past year, this time brought to you by so called goaltending experts Mike Vogel and a guy who played college hockey.
The points are the points, regardless of who says them.
by David M. Getz on Sep 18, 2009 11:36 AM EDT up reply actions
I don’t see why its bologna. They have different styles and there are different risks with the two styles. Neuvirth has played well enough to stay in the conversation, I think that’s all that is going on.
A man must have a code.
by Fehr and Balanced on Sep 18, 2009 3:04 PM EDT up reply actions
What if in reality it’s a three-way competition between Theodore, Varlamov and Neuvirth that can be subdivided into competitions between Theodore and Varly, between Theodore and Neuvirth, and between Varly and Neuvirth? Wouldn’t there then be N times N-1 divided by 2 pairwise competitions?
Atta dinnin stick a who!
by Gould Old Days on Sep 18, 2009 12:13 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
(yes gotsparkly, you’re being targeted)
Atta dinnin stick a who!
by Gould Old Days on Sep 18, 2009 12:14 PM EDT up reply actions
Is there a test at the end of the hour?
If you've read this far...seek help.
by ThePeerless on Sep 18, 2009 12:35 PM EDT up reply actions
Ugh, I just got finished reading over an old lecture on Big-O Notation.. the last thing I want to see is N-power algorithms right now.
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Visit us online at : http://winterion.com
Order of Magnitude FTW!!! <— nerd alert
"I am... *grins* ... 'Nobody' "
- Odysseus
by war_capitals on Sep 18, 2009 2:23 PM EDT up reply actions
What you’re saying (I think) is that there’s a possiblity that both Neuvirth and Varly end up outplaying Theo, in which case Theo goes to Hershey and the two kids are the G for the big club.
I think that’s a possiblity in theory, but in practice I have a hard time seeing it come about.
It would take a great leap of faith for the team to go into a year with, on paper anyway, a ton of promise with two rookies in net. Theo’s salary would be a tough lump to swallow in Hershey.
But, this team is characterized by out-of-the-box thinking on a lot of fronts, so who knows?
I doubt it as well. If we send Theo to Hershey and then one of the rookies can’t handle the NHL then we have to bring Theo up through re-entry waivers. Theo is way overpaid at 4.5 but at 2.25 a team may be willing to pick him up; in which case we now have no veteran on the team and have to go find one, all while paying 2.25 for a guy that isn’t playing for us (and IIRC we keep 2.25 on the cap as well). Plus, Theo in Hershey should put up huge numbers so he would be even more attractive on re-entry waivers. I don’t see it happening.
A man must have a code.
by Fehr and Balanced on Sep 18, 2009 3:07 PM EDT up reply actions
What you’re saying (I think) is that…
To be entirely clear, I was really just being a smartass.
Atta dinnin stick a who!
by Gould Old Days on Sep 18, 2009 1:49 PM EDT up reply actions
Well I think that Theo is a lock to be on the roster, while neither rookie is. So the real battle is about who goes to Hershey and who stays in DC. Once the season starts then the challenge to Theo begins.
A man must have a code.
by Fehr and Balanced on Sep 18, 2009 3:01 PM EDT up reply actions
I don’t think the battle is that close, though, either. Varlamov, all 13 post season games of him, is a known quantity – much more so than Neuvy. He’s got to be astronomically fantastic to displace Varly on the roster. I just don’t see that happening. Honestly, I’d say Varly’s safe for the back-up, and he’s playing for #1.
by DrinkingPartner on Sep 18, 2009 3:17 PM EDT up reply actions
I don’t think either of them are a known quantity, but I think you’re right that it’s Varlamov’s job to lose. In reference to Carlznerson BB said they had to “knock out” the incumbents; I think that’s the same spot Neuvirth is in.
A man must have a code.
by Fehr and Balanced on Sep 18, 2009 3:24 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
He’s played in 19 games… nineteen. 1,088 minutes, that’s why. That’s roughly my daily commute.
If you've read this far...seek help.
That’s the worst daily commute ever.
by DrinkingPartner on Sep 18, 2009 11:31 AM EDT up reply actions
Hey now, if you’re going to fault others for bringing down one guy to boost the other’s standing it’s not fair to use that same line of reasoning.
by David M. Getz on Sep 18, 2009 11:35 AM EDT up reply actions
Fair enough.
It’s worth noting, though, that Varlamov played great games against an offensively inept New York team, Atlanta (twice), Tampa, St. Louis and Montreal and then was weak against Pittsburgh.
by David M. Getz on Sep 18, 2009 11:41 AM EDT up reply actions
Why go there? Neuvirth had a stellar debut (TB) then looked average to poor against Atlanta, Florida and then finally Carolina.
Russian Machine Never Breaks
So did the rest of the Caps, though. Those were some pretty bad games they played.
by DrinkingPartner on Sep 18, 2009 11:46 AM EDT up reply actions
Why go there?
Because it’s worth pointing out that Varlamov generally played well against poor teams and not so well against better teams.
Neuvirth had a stellar debut (TB) then looked average to poor against Atlanta, Florida and then finally Carolina.
Okay, but I’m addressing the ‘why do people question Varlamov’ aspect, not trying to say Neuvirth has accomplished more at the NHL level.
by David M. Getz on Sep 18, 2009 11:53 AM EDT up reply actions
And regardless of the level of competition Neuvirth stayed way fresher after playing far more games than Varlamov. He didn’t slow down after playing a full season and then 22 playoff games. Varlamov slowed down after 9 playoff games.
A man must have a code.
by Fehr and Balanced on Sep 18, 2009 3:09 PM EDT up reply actions
Against way, way, way, way, way better competition.
by DrinkingPartner on Sep 18, 2009 3:17 PM EDT up reply actions
I said regardless of the competition. And that was out of control. Neuvirth didn’t just survive in the AHL, he flat dominated. He also didn’t tire down during a grueling schedule (more grueling than the NHL schedule based on days off, how did Varlamov look in back-to-backs?). No, Neuvirth wasn’t playing the same competition (then again, how big a challenge were the Rags?), but it’s not like he was playing in Juniors. The AHL is the second best league in the world, and Neuvirth did everything he could. Does anyone want to deny that Neuvirth showed better endurance than Varlamov last year?
A man must have a code.
by Fehr and Balanced on Sep 18, 2009 3:27 PM EDT up reply actions
Neuvy was a beast in the playoffs. A surprising, baby cheeked beast, but damn……those weren’t “I got lucky” numbers, those were “I’m better than everyone else, bitches!” type numbers.
And also “I’m squarely on top of my game and in shape and not tiring out one damn bit so bring it.”
A man must have a code.
by Fehr and Balanced on Sep 18, 2009 3:52 PM EDT up reply actions
The only thing you can really argue here is that the (shit, the Manitoba Moose, right?) Manitoba Moose are not the Stanley Cup Champion Pittsburgh Penguins. We can’t say who’d have done what if the positions were switched, but there’s no argument in my mind that Varly had a tougher job.
by DrinkingPartner on Sep 18, 2009 3:37 PM EDT up reply actions
Obviously Varlamov had a tougher job, I’m just saying it’s not as lopsided as we all think. Neuvirth played more games and stayed on his game through all of them. Neuvirth played against some pretty decent offensive teams in the Calder Cup playoffs (WBS was 2nd in the league after Hershey) and still put up dominant numbers. Varlamov played against below average NHL offense and put up good numbers, then put up not-so-good numbers against PIT. Remember, just as the forwards shooting on Varlamov were better, so too were the D protecting him. Varlamov left a lot of rebounds and I thought against the Rags our D did a very solid job of clearing those rebounds.
A man must have a code.
by Fehr and Balanced on Sep 18, 2009 3:56 PM EDT up reply actions
This comment is late and I don’t expect a reply, just think about this:
Remember, just as the forwards shooting on Varlamov were better,
Neuvirth had Alexander Giroux on his team, the absolute best goal-scorer the AHL has ever seen, a man who can’t hold a spot on an NHL team because he can’t score on NHL goalies. Neuvirth was facing lesser shooters than that.
NOW, I’m absolutely not harping Neuvy. In defense of Varlamov, every single shooter he faced was levels higher, far and away from anything Neuvirth had to face. The Caps defense may be better than the Hershey defense, but the Pittsburgh offense that won the Stanley Cup, beating the Detroit-freaking-Red Wings, is miles and miles above the offense of the Manitoba Moose.
I’d say it was pretty lopsided.
by DrinkingPartner on Sep 18, 2009 4:31 PM EDT up reply actions
If it’s on the front page you’ll get a reply. You’re using the Pens as the example of the high-powered offense Varlamov faced, which is true, but he didn’t have very good numbers against them (though he did play well in most of the games). Scoring in the AHL is a tough phenomenon. You have career AHL guys like Giroux, who generally lead the league in scoring. But you also have some of the best young goal-scoring prospects in the world (Giroux broke Brett Hull’s AHL goal-scoring streak).
I’m not going to go through all the rosters, but as just one example Manitoba had Michael Grabner, one of the top young prospects in the game; and he terrorized the Hershey D. Also, the chances you face in the AHL are in some respects more difficult; the play is less predictable because the players aren’t as talented and crisp. Thus, you get shots coming at you from completely unexpected breakdowns, or you have your whole team running around in the D zone. Again, I’m not saying that Neuvirth faced harder competition. I’m saying that it’s completely unfair and inaccurate to dismiss Neuvirth’s numbers just because he played lower competition.
A man must have a code.
by Fehr and Balanced on Sep 18, 2009 4:40 PM EDT up reply actions
I don't think people are trying to dog varly
But I think it’s legitimate to point out that there have been plenty of pro players that have a flash in the pan season, then regress; that Varly has had some nice moments, but has yet to prove he’s “the guy” over the long haul; and, given the foregoing, he will have to actively win a job in the big leagues, rather than having a spot reserved for him.
He looks like he’s got potential – but potential and 5 bucks will by you a froofy drink at Starbucks. If he turns potential into production, he’ll play in the NHL this year; if he doesn’t, he won’t.
I vigorously protest the notion that Varlamov was weak against Pitt. He had 2 bad games out of 7 and is the only reason that series went to 7 games.
His save percentage was .898, .889 after the first game. I think he was better than his numbers suggest, and was getting worn down, and obviously the Penguins were playing well and are a very good team. But the point remains that he posted gaudy numbers against bad teams and average numbers against good ones.
by David M. Getz on Sep 18, 2009 12:37 PM EDT up reply actions
Yeah, but Neuvirth had to shuttle between 3 teams and was on a brief loan to the Czech League early last year. They’re both green, they both deserve an equal shot.
"Why the [frak] would I live to 100? I'm 73 and [stuff's] starting to get boring. By the way, there's no money left when I go, just FYI."
by Bald Pollack on Sep 18, 2009 11:37 AM EDT up reply actions
They’ll both get a shot. It’s just that – it’s not an accident that Varlamov is considered the blue chip prospect.
Russian Machine Never Breaks
the blue chip prospect
The point isn’t that Varly is THE blue chip prospect, its that he is one of TWO blue chippers. Neuvirth and Varly both have pedigree and skill. What is the point of picking one over the other at this point?
by Sct112 on Sep 18, 2009 11:46 AM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
DP – I’m thinking that comment is made with tongue firmly planted in cheek?
One good playoff run is only that, and nothing more (see, Price, Cary); and Varly had some stellar moments against Pitt, but was horrible in Game 7.
He’s probably got the edge over Neuvirth, but that’s as far as it goes. Furthermore, why should we, as fans, get attached to a guy at this point? I want the best netminding possible for the team; if that ends up being Neuvy as the backup, so be it.
Right. My point was that was the only reason he is considered better than Neuvirth. I haven’t seen enough of Neuvirth in high pressure situations to make a real judgment of who’s the better prospect. But those 13 games in the NHL playoffs are worth a lot more than, even, a Calder Cup winning goalie.
But I’m absolutely in favor of letting Neuvirth beat the hell out of whomever he wants.
In a goaltending sense, I mean.
by DrinkingPartner on Sep 18, 2009 12:47 PM EDT up reply actions
My point being is that if the roles were reversed, then maybe we’re talking about Neuvirth as the incumbent/future starter/bright shiny new toy/blue chipper/etc. Not to parrot the DMG post, all things being equal, but if Varlamov doesn’t get into the second round last year, is he quite the shoo-in that people have him at right now?
"Why the [frak] would I live to 100? I'm 73 and [stuff's] starting to get boring. By the way, there's no money left when I go, just FYI."
by Bald Pollack on Sep 18, 2009 11:50 AM EDT up reply actions
Probably not, but we did get to the second round, and he was a big reason why.
My whole beef with the article is that they are basically questioning Varlamov and answering with Neuvirth. I’m not saying Varly is a known quantity at this time, but to come back with Neuvirth, at this juncture and with what each has accomplished at the NHL level, makes no sense at all.
Russian Machine Never Breaks
It sounds like you’re saying Neuvirth isn’t a valid alternative, and both are pretty much equal, but since Varlamov did well in the postseason (and Neuvirth didn’t get the opportunity to), he should be the long-term option going forward, no questions asked?
Just trying to clarify; I’m confused (sleepy?)
"Why the [frak] would I live to 100? I'm 73 and [stuff's] starting to get boring. By the way, there's no money left when I go, just FYI."
by Bald Pollack on Sep 18, 2009 12:18 PM EDT up reply actions
No, both are not pretty much equal, at this time, in my opinion.
Neuvirth did not get an opportunity in the Caps post season for a reason. Their two best goalies were Theodore (I think) and Varlamov.
I’d actually like to see JT gone and Neuvy/Varly share the load, then acquire veteran backup at the deadline if necessary. But since that won’t happen, and only one can be with the Caps, it’s going to be Varly, and for that reason he is going to be even further ahead of Neuvy next season.
I like Neuvirth, I just don’t like people coming up with marginal reasons why he is somehow going to be the better prospect and possibly should be on the Caps roster instead of Varly, because what we have seen to this point does not support that. If he develops into the better goalie down the road, so be it.
Russian Machine Never Breaks
I like Neuvirth, I just don’t like people coming up with marginal reasons why he is somehow going to be the better prospect and possibly should be on the Caps roster instead of Varly, because what we have seen to this point does not support that
To be fair I don’t think many people are saying Neuvirth is the better prospect or better goalie, just that he might be and the gap might be smaller than most of us think.
by David M. Getz on Sep 18, 2009 12:38 PM EDT up reply actions
Well said.
"Why the [frak] would I live to 100? I'm 73 and [stuff's] starting to get boring. By the way, there's no money left when I go, just FYI."
by Bald Pollack on Sep 18, 2009 1:43 PM EDT up reply actions
Less than Varlamov, but between the two they have about 20 NHL games worth of experience. At the moment, they have no more than potential, and there would be — should be, in fact — questions about both of them.
If you've read this far...seek help.
by ThePeerless on Sep 18, 2009 11:48 AM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
Varlamov is about a year ahead of Neuvirth, by virtue of his Russian pro experience against men (compared to Neuvirth in juniors), although that gap closed quite a bit last year.
All in all, these are good problems to have. I think the team will give Varlamov the more attractive opportunities, and if the two play equally well then Varly will start the year with the Caps. Which he’s earned. And if Neuvirth clearly outplays him, then Neuvirth will make the Caps.
Atta dinnin stick a who!
by Gould Old Days on Sep 18, 2009 12:20 PM EDT up reply actions
I’m not disagreeing with you at all, I just want to make a point that may seem counterintuitive. Varlamov is more likely to get the NHL back up job, and as you noted that seems to be the more attractive job. But Neuvirth is going to get 50 games in Hershey, maybe a handful in DC, and then again get to be the guy on a playoff run. In the long run, NHL goaltending is much more about starting lots of games and being the guy in the playoffs. If Neuvirth puts up gaudy numbers in the regular season for Hershey, and then leads them on a long playoff run again, I think that could be more valuable goaltending experience in the long run, thus the more attractive option. This all goes doubly if Theo is able to lock down the No. 1 job and get the playoff starts for the Caps, keeping Varlamov on the bench most of the time. I don’t know that it plays out like that, but it could.
A man must have a code.
by Fehr and Balanced on Sep 18, 2009 3:20 PM EDT up reply actions
Captains...
On two occasions, David Poile traded with the Minnesota/Dallas Stars organization and obtained their captain. In 1989, he got Rob Rouse as part of the Ciccarelli trade and he was the North Stars captain at the time. In 1995, when Kevin Hatcher was sent to Dallas, the Caps got Mark Tinordi back, who was the Stars captain at the time.
That moment also marked the date when Dale Hunter became the Caps captain…
Let's go Caps!
For thsoe of you who have been long time subscribers to The Hockey News, you might remember that part near the crossword puzzle at the the end of the newspaper that had the look-alike part. For example, one was Gary Bettman looks like The Count with the two pictures side-by-side. Anyways, I wish they still had that so I could submit that picture of Rush Limbaugh as a Bruce Boudeau look-alike; the pictture of Rush from AskMen.com link had a picture that I almost thought was BB at first. Just some trivial shit.
PS. Proteau predicting us to win the East actually means something to me.
i always thought bruce looked like mickey rooney :)
by kellobellow on Sep 18, 2009 12:19 PM EDT up reply actions
There’s some good google images that predict the future of what BB might look like. Hopefully he stays around another 30-40 years so he’s old and cranky like Joe Paterno!
Joe Pa is the only reason I root for Penn State. Generally, I don’t care for college football at all, but he’s the spitting image of my grandfather, from personality to look. Cracks me up every time.
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Joe Pa is the major reason I root against Penn St. A while back I heard that Penn St. was trying to start up a D I hockey program and Joe Pa used his leverage to nix it because he didn’t want another major D I program to compete with football. I’m not entirely positive of this because when I looked for verification I couldn’t find any, maybe one of the Penn St. people around here can clarify.
A man must have a code.
by Fehr and Balanced on Sep 18, 2009 3:23 PM EDT up reply actions
Interesting if true. I know the Dean of GMU’s been adamantly against us having an NCAA football team for years. I don’t know if his mind changed any, or if his opinion was reinforced, by the awesome run the men’s basketball team had getting to the Final Four (and the subsequent glut of cash that resulted in), but college sports has these quirky dynamics away from the game.
Another reason I generally prefer pro sports.
Winterion Game Studios
Visit us online at : http://winterion.com
Also, give me free agency and drafts over college recruiting any day of the week.
Winterion Game Studios
Visit us online at : http://winterion.com
NCAA football teams eat up TONS of resources, and unless you are Ohio State, USC, Florida type, they generally lose money. And if a school adds football, they now need to add enough women’s sports to balance out those 85ish male-only sporting opportunities, so its not just adding football; its adding football + approximately 3 more sports. Add in the costs of additional coaches, support staff, trainers, travel, etc for 4 sports….its mindblowing.
Careful – we don’t want Carolinaeasy to crawl out from under his bridge to start trouble again.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
He better bring a shark cage.
A man must have a code.
by Fehr and Balanced on Sep 18, 2009 3:57 PM EDT up reply actions
I'm a Penn State alum
…and I never heard anything about that.
by Scott in Shaw on Sep 18, 2009 5:00 PM EDT up reply actions
From Ted's Take
We drafted Varlamov with a pick we garnered in a trade. We drafted Neuvirth a bit later and we believe both of these young men will be stalwarts in goal for us for a long time. Rebuilding through the draft – I still maintain – is the best way to build a team. At the same time, Jose Theodore has looked very sharp in goal. He is a long time NHL vet. He is a former league MVP. He wants to keep his mantle of the #1 goaltender. Competition in camp is very healthy. It is an exciting time to be a Caps fan.
Dat’s da fact, Jack.
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Southeast Standings
| GP | W | L | OTL | PT | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Washington
|
82 | 54 | 15 | 13 | 121 |
|
Atlanta
|
82 | 35 | 34 | 13 | 83 |
|
Carolina
|
82 | 35 | 37 | 10 | 80 |
|
Tampa Bay
|
82 | 34 | 36 | 12 | 80 |
|
Florida
|
82 | 32 | 37 | 13 | 77 |
(updated 4.12.2010 at 9:21 AM EDT)
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