Recap: Sabres 2, Caps 1
by J.P. on Sep 21, 2009 10:19 PM EDT
231 comments
[AP Recap - Game Summary - Event Summary]
There's a reason a phrase like "the most important shift is the one right after a goal is scored" becomes cliché - because it's true. After surrendering the game's first goal to Buffalo's Drew Stafford early in the second period, the Caps seemed to lose focus and found themselves in a 2-0 hole just eleven seconds later (similar to the last home game, eh?).
But the Caps got better as the game went on - to be expected with so many veterans making their pre-season debuts. Better, but not good enough.
Ten notes on the game:
- The big number on the night? 13:00. The small number? 3. Those numbers represent the time the Caps spent on the power play on the night and the number of power-play shots they had, respectively. Not good, even if today was the first time the team practiced the power play.
- John Erskine had a typical sandpapery game, including a big, clean hit on Jeff Cowan that prompted Paul Gaustad to seek revenge. I'll ask yet again - where's this stuff in "The Code"™.
- Jose Theodore was much better than he was in the last game he started, and played well enough to win.
- No Brooks Laich, no win. Know Brooks Laich, know win.
- Due to the amount of time the Caps spent playing with the extra man, it's no surprise that Alex Ovechkin (10:41 of PP TOI) and Mike Green (10:24) had high average shift lengths, but 1:16 and 1:12, respectively, is still awfully high.
- Speaking of Green, he's, um, not quite in mid-season form yet (peanut gallery: "No, that was post-season form"). No shots on goals, three giveaways and a minus-two rating. Time to focus, GreenLife52.
- The top line sure has some nice chemistry, with Mike Knuble nearly scoring at least a couple of goals.
- Karl Alzner's minus-2 couldn't have helped his cause. Alexandre Giroux's lack of NHL-caliber skills can't be helping his.
- Jeff Schultz was second on the team in shots on goal with three and led the team (tied with Jay Beagle) with four hits. He may not be here "to impress the fans," but the smart ones took notice, as they always do.
- Chris Bourque failed to cash in on a couple of quality scoring chances. If his name was Chris Smith, would the world care?
The Caps, as a team, were not good on Monday night. Individual Caps for whom the game mattered most were not particularly good either. But it's hard to get worked up over this loss. Unless, that is, you're packing your bags for Hershey when you get back to your apartment.
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Agree with you on the shift length – AO spent another power plays on the ice for two solid minutes. That is garbage. Surely we’re not the only people that notice this?
Where are all the posters? It’s only preseason, no need to mope; let’s break this one down.
Isn’t that nothing new for Ovechkin and Green? They both seem prone to staying out way longer than anyone else ever would, trying to make things happen themselves instead of getting fresher legs on the ice.
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by Ben Rothenberg on Sep 22, 2009 1:19 AM EDT up reply actions
As it is the top PP unit tends to be out there for around 1:15 to 1:30, and without Pothier and with Fedorov at C, no one really fits that PP point slot.
by red army line on Sep 22, 2009 9:36 AM EDT up reply actions
OK, that TOI per shift on their first game back (when I believe Bradley even saw PP time)? Srsly?
"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 21, 2009 10:26 PM EDT via mobile reply actions
How do we do it? We’ve got to work hard and take short shifts.
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by J.P. on Sep 21, 2009 10:28 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
I mean if they’re not skating Wednesday or Thursday, I could maybe see it, but it’s a Leonhardt, at best.
"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 21, 2009 10:32 PM EDT via mobile up reply actions
You are sage in the area of Semintics.
"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 22, 2009 8:52 AM EDT up reply actions
That one requires little effort; come on, drift out in the Mhyre(s).
"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 22, 2009 9:30 AM EDT up reply actions
Some Positives
Knuble. Stay healthy, Mike. You’ll score a ton.
Schultz. Made a couple of guys into his bitches when he just strolled over to them and shoved them off the puck.
Ummmm…help me out here, guys.
Aucoin makes it a tough decision, and perhaps a more active forecheck? I was really more focused on the kids in back than watching the others in general.
"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 21, 2009 10:34 PM EDT via mobile up reply actions
Him and Green got caught staring on the second goal, Carlson was a little more poised and saw time on both ends of the special teams, and more time in general. If I used the “provided a d-man got moved to make room for one of them” card, I’d give 74 a slight edge.
"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 21, 2009 11:05 PM EDT up reply actions
To be absolutely fair, the Sabres played just barely well enough to win themselves. Ovie looked raw, certainly, and Giroux and Bourque didn’t have good games for being partial “top-6” talent.
I’d still, still like to see what Bourque can do when playing with Semin or Morrison, though, just to see.
Semin had a pretty fantastic 1st game back. He made a few of ’em look foolish, and just managed to hit posts. A few luckier bounces and we win that game some 6-2 (if Knuble nets at least one of his 3 really great chances).
Brads, too.
Really, that game wasn’t horrible; those two Sabres’ goals were just horrible, only one of which I’d even have any problem with: that deflection goal likely goes in every time it’s on net, regardless of the goalie.
They have PP work and low shots through traffic to work on tomorrow, though. That was horrendous.
by DrinkingPartner on Sep 21, 2009 10:49 PM EDT reply actions
The league has GOT to do something about the silliness that has become the response to clean, open-ice hits. It was getting out of hand last year, and it’s already gotten out of hand this pre-season.
I’m not sure 17 minutes (with a five-minute major) is enough to make it stop. But stop it must.
by TylerG on Sep 21, 2009 10:49 PM EDT reply actions 1 recs
I just want to gift Erskine some brass knuckles; he won’t be bothered for long.
by DrinkingPartner on Sep 21, 2009 10:50 PM EDT up reply actions
The league has GOT to do something about the silliness that has become the response to clean, open-ice hits. It was getting out of hand last year, and it’s already gotten out of hand this pre-season.
I’m not sure 17 minutes (with a five-minute major) is enough to make it stop. But stop it must.
Can’t say it any better than that. It’s the dumbest thing ever, and as you say, it’s escalating. Some big hitting star is going to get a concussion from some journeyman in one of these idiotic things, if they don’t get it stopped.
Is there another example you’re thinking of besides tonight? I can only think of the Phaneuf ruckus and IMO that was an entirely justified response from NYI (asides leaving the bench which has been duly punished).
If you're after gettin' the honey, then you don't go killin' all them bees.
by Fehr and Balanced on Sep 21, 2009 11:25 PM EDT up reply actions
I’ve never denied that it happens regularly. I’ve made my position clear on a number of occasions. What I’m saying is that it hasn’t been that prevalent in the pre-season, to my knowledge; certainly no worse than last season. I’m responding to the “it’s gotten out of hand in the pre-season.” Granted, the games are not televised for the most part, but the pre-season has been pretty tame compared to what we see in the regular season and playoffs.
If you're after gettin' the honey, then you don't go killin' all them bees.
by Fehr and Balanced on Sep 21, 2009 11:52 PM EDT up reply actions
At least from what I see the open-ice hits come from more unexpected sources, because they aren’t expected. Niklas Kronwall, before he got onto the radar, is this model, in 07-08 postseason. Green I’ve seen go big open-ice a couple of times. Evgeni Malkin too
by red army line on Sep 22, 2009 9:38 AM EDT up reply actions
Unexpected hit is unexpected.
"It is better to die on your feet than to live on your knees." - Delores Ibarruri
No hockey player expects open-ice hits. If a guy with a rep for big hits like Ovie or Phaneuf step on the ice, chances are the other guy keeps his head up more than normal to watch out. I suppose I was trying to explain the circular logic.
by red army line on Sep 22, 2009 12:28 PM EDT up reply actions
Nobody expects the Spanish Inquisition!!
(Link, in case that reference is too obscure or geeky for some (sparkly, I’m lookin’ at you))
It’s not technically a movie reference.
by DrinkingPartner on Sep 22, 2009 12:57 PM EDT up reply actions
I’m not even sure what this means, or how it applies to my point.
If you're after gettin' the honey, then you don't go killin' all them bees.
by Fehr and Balanced on Sep 22, 2009 2:40 PM EDT up reply actions
Glorified pond hockey
Now I remember why I don’t go to preseason games. Rookies playing against AHLers playing against vets half-skating playing against fourth liners. That’s three hours I’ll never get back.
Really? You’d rather be doing something other than watching hockey?
by DrinkingPartner on Sep 21, 2009 10:59 PM EDT up reply actions 2 recs
I’m with you DP. I went to the friggin’ intersquad scrimmage and loved it. There is no way the quality of play at that scrimmage was as high as a pre-season game.
If you're after gettin' the honey, then you don't go killin' all them bees.
by Fehr and Balanced on Sep 21, 2009 11:26 PM EDT up reply actions
If b.orr is like me, the difference is $$$. I love going to Kettler and watching a couple of hours of practice or scrimmages, but I have no desire to go to meaningless preseason games and shell out almost as much dough in tickets/transpo/concessions as I would for regular season games.
Oh, and did I mention the Not Interested In Hockey Spouse Factor? When you have to delicately plan 40+ games (and then the playoffs) during evenings and weekends, you have to use the preseason games as leverage. “Honey, how bout this? I’ll skip the first three games of the season so that we can go see the new Jennifer Aniston movie, pick pumpkins, and go see your family”.
That’s three hours I’ll never get back.
Doesn’t sound like a money issue, to me.
But I understand you. My ex was very much of the “not interested” and she eventually just stopped going with me (and then eventually just stopped being my girlfriend – take that how you will, i suppose).
by DrinkingPartner on Sep 22, 2009 11:02 AM EDT up reply actions
It really was just the lack of passion on the ice. I fully understand why the real NHLers were holding back, but with a full season ahead I didn’t need to spend my time watching a game played with the intensity of an All-Star game filled with minor leaguers. And the minor leaguers weren’t very impressive. Just my personal pet peeve.
Maybe you’ve been luckier than I have, but that was my first hockey this season. It definitely scratched my itch.
by DrinkingPartner on Sep 22, 2009 11:44 AM EDT up reply actions
Must Love Dogs Hockey
I got lucky on this one, my wife’s seen more Capitals games than I have…
"I am... *grins* ... 'Nobody' "
- Odysseus
by war_capitals on Sep 22, 2009 12:04 PM EDT up reply actions
I can totally understand the spouse factor, and the money factor, but that wasn’t what I got from b.orr4. IIRC the season ticket holders get the pre-season tix with their package so they aren’t exactly paying more for the pre-season games; you may as well go. Now, would I pay to go see a pre-season game? Probably not, but if tix fell into my lap I’d go over almost any other entertainment option for the evening.
If you're after gettin' the honey, then you don't go killin' all them bees.
by Fehr and Balanced on Sep 22, 2009 2:42 PM EDT up reply actions
Last night was the first pre-season game I’ve ever attended. Last year I just considered them a cost to be amortized over the 41 regular season tickets; I think I sent the kids to one or two games and at least one game no one went. I went more because it was hockey than because I had anything invested in the outcome, and therefore wasn’t upset at the outcome and lackluster play. But if something comes up and I can’t go tomorrow, I won’t be upset.
However, it amazes me that the face value of the tickets is the same as the regular season. IIRC, the charge in the STH package is 50% of regular season games.
>3… number of power-play shots they had
And about half way through the second (I think it was during the power play), I remember looking up and seeing 6 shots on goal. Normally things aren’t going great when everyone in the VC is constantly yelling “shoot”.
Not for nothing, but if I gauged performance based on your typical VC crowd…
"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 21, 2009 11:24 PM EDT up reply actions
Yeah, the crowd always yells “shoot!” If you heard a guy yelling loudly all by himself, he was at the far end of our section. Really getting on our nerves. Hoping he’s not a STH. Then again, he’ll be drowned out when the place is full. I swear the shot count in the first was broken.
Yeah, the crowd always yells "shoot!"
Always? Really?
Then again, he’ll be drowned out when the place is full.
Attendance was 18,075… almost capacity. Sure, it didn’t feel or sound like 200 people short of capacity, but I’m still surprising that there was only one guy in your section yelling “shoot!” because I could hear plenty of people and as far as 2 or 3 sections away yelling it.
Attendance was 18,075… almost capacity.
That must have been the announced total, the actual was probably 16ish.
"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 22, 2009 7:22 AM EDT up reply actions
No way. I can’t imagine it was more than 12,000. It was pretty quiet in there, relative to what we’ve become accustomed to.
No, they were Jeff Schultz fans… they weren’t physically there.
If you've read this far...seek help.
by ThePeerless on Sep 22, 2009 9:16 AM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
Yeah, like I said, it definitely didn’t feel/sound like 18k. I’ld agree with it looking like 16k.
But that’s beside the point… I’m still surprised that gfcaps fan only heard one person yelling “shoot.”
I’m not saying the “typical VC crowd” is a good way of gauging performance, but it was pretty clear, even for that “typical VC crowd”, that they weren’t getting their shots on goal early on.
Not one player who spent last year in Hershey distinguished himself in this game. If this was an opportunity for any of them to take a roster spot and grab it by the throat — something Bruce Boudreau hinted loudly at before the game — well…they didn’t. I thought Chris Bourque and Alexandre Giroux in particular did themselves a disservice in this one. They have a deeper hole out of which to climb to get a roster spot after this.
If you've read this far...seek help.
I thought Aucoin had a pretty good game overall. It’s just too bad he’s not a RW by trade.
by DrinkingPartner on Sep 21, 2009 11:04 PM EDT up reply actions
Aucoin wasn’t bad, but he had one shot on goal — a shot that was going to go wide until it deflected off of a skate or a boot — and he had an otherwise clean score sheet. He was good by comparison to some rather inconsequential efforts.
If you've read this far...seek help.
by ThePeerless on Sep 21, 2009 11:06 PM EDT up reply actions
Well said. You’d figure with Mahoney in attendance that they’d do more with it.
"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 21, 2009 11:07 PM EDT up reply actions
It says here Perreault is in the next game. And he makes a bigger statement than the HER guys from tonight made.
If you're after gettin' the honey, then you don't go killin' all them bees.
by Fehr and Balanced on Sep 21, 2009 11:27 PM EDT up reply actions
wonder what the chances are he makes the team. everything i’ve read leads me to believe he has made great strides this year to improve his game but is still a bit raw. however, given Giroux and Bourque’s lackluster play…
yeah, totally routing for the underdog Perreault here. want to see him succeed.
by ns on Sep 22, 2009 9:18 AM EDT up reply actions
wonder what the chances are he makes the team.
Small.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
Yeah.
The team’s got scorers. Perreault doesn’t play enough defense at this point.
Now, Quintin Laing, there’s a guy whose odds of making the team went up last night.
Well, we’ll see what BB does in the next couple exhibitions. He said he intends those as “dress rehearsals” so his personnel on the second line wing will be instructive.
I believe it was G.O.D. who noted that the Caps have essentially two options for replacing Flash: 1) bring up a Flash type of player from the minors and plug him into that spot, or 2) move someone up from the third line and bring up a grinder.
Given the performances so far, I think it’s far more likely they go for Option 2. We should know more after the next couple games.
Giroux is certainly getting every chance to replace Flash. But ultimately, Laich-BMO-Semin may make more sense (and I suspect the Bourque lobby approves)
Atta dinnin stick a who!
by Gould Old Days on Sep 22, 2009 10:05 AM EDT up reply actions
The way Giroux played last night does not make me want to see him in a Caps jersey again.
by DrinkingPartner on Sep 22, 2009 10:08 AM EDT up reply actions
This representative of the Bourque Lobby approves.
Sadly, I would have liked to see more Energizer and less Bunny.
"It is better to die on your feet than to live on your knees." - Delores Ibarruri
I only got to see the third period, sadly, but from what I saw (a 20 minute penalty kill), Semin was the only guy on the ice up front that looked anything resembling special.
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Backs and Knubs were both good (I might go so far to say Knubs looked really good). AO and Green both looked rusty, but AO was still pretty AO-ish.
But definitely, Theo and Semin were the stand-outs last night; And Carlson didn’t make a ton happen, but he shows tons of promise (last night was the first time I’d ever actually seen him play).
by DrinkingPartner on Sep 22, 2009 10:49 AM EDT up reply actions
Timing was off
To say the least, but I gotta keep reminding myself that for a lot of these guys it was their first game and first time playing at full game speed. For the fans, preseason can be boring and almost seem like a tease waiting the games that count to start, but for the players these games are (obviously) necessary.
I actually thought that the pace and quality of play did pick up quite a bit (on both sides) as the game wore on, which is promising.
The lack of shots taken in the first period and into the 2nd was concerning, especially when you consider the amount of time that the Caps were playing with a man advantage AND when you consider the quality and timeliness of the shots that were taken.
Note to Alex Ovechkin: We all love the you for the hockey player you are and for the way play you play the game—please don’t change a thing. Having said that, perhaps double-shifting in games that don’t count isn’t necessary either—save some of this energy for April (and May) (and June).
by PaintDrinkingPete on Sep 21, 2009 11:06 PM EDT reply actions
Yeah, I noticed OV was doing a lot of pass-first playing in the late part of the game. I just want him to keep shooting. I prolly don’t have any credibility to critique OV but its the interwebs and I’ll sure as hell try.
I think AO realizes that he needs to make the other team guess at what he’s doing, though. He’s done nothing but shoot for 4 years, can you imagine how teams are going to have to change their game plan if double-teaming him doesn’t keep the puck from getting to the net anymore (when it does work, I mean, we’ve all seen the same happen when triple-teaming him).
He recognizes that Knuble is there to be an asset to him around the net (even though one of his prettiest setups was to Semin, who subsequently hit the post).
by DrinkingPartner on Sep 21, 2009 11:12 PM EDT up reply actions
The only change I’d like to see is him occasionally slowing down on the rush when 1-on-4. Don’t shoot then, Alex, wait for support. That way we get the line change in too.
by red army line on Sep 22, 2009 9:40 AM EDT up reply actions
And I think we saw a little bit of that last night. Not a ton, but the slightest instance of change.
by DrinkingPartner on Sep 22, 2009 10:12 AM EDT up reply actions
But as long as he goes roughly 55-55-110 a season plus 1.5 ppg in the playoffs with a great plus-minus, I couldn’t really care less at this stage of his career.
by red army line on Sep 22, 2009 12:29 PM EDT up reply actions
Me fail English? That’s unpossible!
Sorry folks, obviously time for me to hit the sack after a long day…
Note to Alex Ovechkin: We all love you for the hockey player you are and for the way you play the game—please don’t change a thing. Having said that, perhaps double-shifting in games that don’t count isn’t necessary either—save some of this energy for April (and May) (and June).
by PaintDrinkingPete on Sep 21, 2009 11:10 PM EDT up reply actions
On the defensive side, yes Schultz had a good game, but Collins played solidly enough just to make trouble for Alzner and Carlson on the NHL roster. Meaning he’s running interference and bringing the two Karls down to the tweener level.
Alzner looked like he was trying to be too aggressive, got lost positionally, and created the chance that lead to the first goal. I think Alzner has to learn to pick his spots.
In the post game interview, he did say that on one of the goals he was out of position and that he’s been told before that if you make a mistake, make an aggressive mistake. Maybe him trying to be more aggressive this season played into him being out of position so much.
I wouldn’t mind seeing KA do what KA does, and not worry so much about what he’s not doing. He’s had tremendous success up to this level. He’s already defined a playing style. He just needs to be himself, while being a more consistent and careful player.
Atta dinnin stick a who!
by Gould Old Days on Sep 22, 2009 12:01 AM EDT up reply actions
Alzner doesn’t seem to think that. He’s said on a couple of occassions that he is trying to add an aggressive, gritty side to his game and (according to TEB’s article) he seems to think that that aggressiveness cost him last night.
yup. I’d like to see KA think less, talk about what he needs to do less, and just play his game. It’s already a good one and doesn’t need to change dramatically.
Atta dinnin stick a who!
by Gould Old Days on Sep 22, 2009 9:02 AM EDT up reply actions 5 recs
rec’d… let’s not take a player who is good and try to over-coach him. Step on in and fix this, Woodsie! (or was he the one that told him to try being more aggressive?)
"I am... *grins* ... 'Nobody' "
- Odysseus
by war_capitals on Sep 22, 2009 9:25 AM EDT up reply actions
Agreed. He’s obviously a very cerebral player, and I think he can get in his own head a bit. He should just go out there and play without thinking… like most of the rest of ’em.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
But he’s also trying to develop a more well-rounded game; and at least initially that takes some thinking. He’s almost 21, not even close to his prime. Thinking about filling out his game now is going to pay dividends when he’s 27 and the cornerstone of our blueline. The guy wants to do anything he can to make his game better and get to the NHL, if that means thinking about adding components to his game, then good for him. How many guys go to the NHL from juniors and don’t need to add to their game?
If you're after gettin' the honey, then you don't go killin' all them bees.
by Fehr and Balanced on Sep 22, 2009 2:51 PM EDT up reply actions
"Jose Theodore was much better than he was in the last game he started, and played well enough to win."
This, at least, is good news. And that Semin appears to be back and ready.
Alzner staying?
That might be implied from this BB comment, as per Corey M.
“He was playing with Mike, so he did a lot of backing up,” Boudreau said of Alzner. “Mike likes to go. Those two hadn’t played together at all during the preseason so I think starting Wednesday we’ll start getting pairings [together] so they can start getting use to each other.”
I think the long-term goal may be to have Green and Alzner skating together. Whether it happens this season or not is a non-issue.
"It is better to die on your feet than to live on your knees." - Delores Ibarruri
I think it’ll happen this season. Maybe not the beginning of the season, but I’d be surprised if 27 isn’t with the big club full-time by the All-Star break.
by mechanicsville on Sep 22, 2009 1:30 PM EDT up reply actions
Agree that Alzner will make the Caps by the Olympic break (no ASG this year) but I’m not convinced he’ll be Green’s partner that soon.
If you're after gettin' the honey, then you don't go killin' all them bees.
by Fehr and Balanced on Sep 22, 2009 2:54 PM EDT up reply actions
Inferred!
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
by J.P. on Sep 22, 2009 7:32 AM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
As the Junkies would say… Minituae Alarm! skims thru dictionary to see what the difference is between “inferred” and “implied”
"I am... *grins* ... 'Nobody' "
- Odysseus
by war_capitals on Sep 22, 2009 9:29 AM EDT up reply actions
Speakers imply. Listeners infer.
Atta dinnin stick a who!
by Gould Old Days on Sep 22, 2009 10:07 AM EDT up reply actions
Infer a dime, infer a dollar.
If you've read this far...seek help.
by ThePeerless on Sep 22, 2009 10:10 AM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
Genius continuity, Jasper.
If you're after gettin' the honey, then you don't go killin' all them bees.
by Fehr and Balanced on Sep 22, 2009 2:54 PM EDT up reply actions
Ugh What a rough game. Lots of off-timing, lots of being too cutesy, and lots and lots of just sloppy play in general. Too much playing around. Once the Sabres scored twice, the cutesy at least seemed to stop for the most part, as if they woke up and said “Oh, right, we’re playing a hockey game, aren’t we?”
Like everyone else, the big positives I’m picking up are Schultz and Erskine, and the PK. The PK really is looking pretty good, guys – it seems to be a game of keep-away as much as a game of shot-blocking and sacrifice this year, at least from what I’ve seen so far.
Schultz hit a Sabre (didn’t see which one) pretty hard at one point, and then held them until his teammate could take the puck. I like that when he does hit, he hits just hard enough to separate the guy from the puck. Harder hits are fun to watch but can lead to penalties and are more likely to leave him caught up-ice behind the play, so I’m good with the “just enough to rub out the play” approach. He had several shots on goal – good ones – and is playing with more of an attitude this year.
Erskine – oh good, he’ll stand up for himself, and that was a pretty good hit. Gaustad was being a tool, but being unable to score on the resulting PP brings back bad memories of Calgary last year.
The PP frankly makes me want to scratch out my eyeballs.
"It is better to die on your feet than to live on your knees." - Delores Ibarruri
The PP frankly makes me want to scratch out my eyeballs
Thank you for putting a good description to the frustration. I know it doesn’t count and all, but it’s like a total reversal of last year — now we have a great PK and no PP. I’m sure that will be fixed, but by the third PP, I was thinking, “why bother?” Then again, at least they were getting the calls.
Well, if you recall, a good PK and no PP was what we had at the beginning of last season. It took the PP a while to get warmed up then, too.
But that still doesn’t mean I don’t want to scratch out my eyeballs.
"It is better to die on your feet than to live on your knees." - Delores Ibarruri
Corroboration (more or less) in graphical form:
The PK was still under 80% until game 10 (though it dug itself a big hole early), and the PP certainly struggled out of the gate.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
The PK really is looking pretty good…. The PP frankly makes me want to scratch out my eyeballs.
This isn’t entirely surprising on either count – at this point in the season, generally, PKs are made to look better because PPs don’t have their timing down (I’m not just talking about the Caps, but League-wide). So the PK probably isn’t as good as it has looked and the PP obviously isn’t as bad.
As for the Caps’ PP, specifically, three SOGs is inexcusable (and was certainly painful to watch), but there’s still an adjustment when you bring in a new front-of-the-net guy. Obviously, we’re far from a panic point there.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
Sure. There’s adjustments there – we had the same thing last year, but it still makes me want to scratch out my eyeballs.
I do think that Ovechkin / Backstrom / Knuble will work, though. One thing – he carried the mail for that line a lot last night – I think I’d rather someone else carry the mail so he’s got time to set up in front of the goalie.
"It is better to die on your feet than to live on your knees." - Delores Ibarruri
Gaustad was being a tool, but being unable to score on the resulting PP brings back bad memories of Calgary last year.
I think most people had those visions, as well. I also kept thinking back to the “we want to be like DET and make people pay with our PP.” Well, if we’re taking 3 shots in 13 PP minutes we may as well shell out for a damn enforcer.
If you're after gettin' the honey, then you don't go killin' all them bees.
by Fehr and Balanced on Sep 22, 2009 2:57 PM EDT up reply actions
The PP frankly makes me want to scratch out my eyeballs.
But that still doesn’t mean I don’t want to scratch out my eyeballs.
There’s adjustments there – we had the same thing last year, but it still makes me want to scratch out my eyeballs.
Can you come over to my place this weekend? The wife and I have some records that need breaking (I keed).
"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."
You want outta control?!?! : ]
No, Animal… beat drum, not eat drum!!!
"I am... *grins* ... 'Nobody' "
- Odysseus
by war_capitals on Sep 22, 2009 9:56 AM EDT up reply actions 6 recs
Rec’d, because it’s the MUPPETS.
"It is better to die on your feet than to live on your knees." - Delores Ibarruri
Animal may make a few more guest appearances at the mention of Finley. It just makes too much sense. Now if I get my hands on a Muppets episode where they’re playing hockey, I might have found my first tattoo.
Piece! (mis-spelled on purpose, before anyone gets any ideas : )
"I am... *grins* ... 'Nobody' "
- Odysseus
by war_capitals on Sep 22, 2009 9:59 AM EDT up reply actions
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
by J.P. on Sep 22, 2009 10:07 AM EDT up reply actions 6 recs
What’s Tkachuk doing over there on the right?
If you've read this far...seek help.
by ThePeerless on Sep 22, 2009 10:09 AM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
And in record time, no less.
"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 22, 2009 10:17 AM EDT up reply actions
Oh dear lord J.P., “where does he find such WONDERFUL toys?!?!”
Totally. Awesome.
I guess the one on the left is AO?
"I am... *grins* ... 'Nobody' "
- Odysseus
by war_capitals on Sep 22, 2009 12:32 PM EDT up reply actions
Second one from the right… Mike, uh… Green?
If you've read this far...seek help.
by ThePeerless on Sep 22, 2009 12:42 PM EDT up reply actions
Speaking of muppets…
Atta dinnin stick a who!
by Gould Old Days on Sep 22, 2009 10:14 AM EDT up reply actions
Sure beats the other pic of him.
"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 22, 2009 10:16 AM EDT up reply actions
This guy wants a piece of Marc Staal, I just know it.
If you've read this far...seek help.
by ThePeerless on Sep 22, 2009 10:36 AM EDT up reply actions
All the ladies want some of that Beaker action!
"I am... *grins* ... 'Nobody' "
- Odysseus
by war_capitals on Sep 22, 2009 12:33 PM EDT up reply actions
Waaaaay off topic (no Clips this morning, so feel free to discuss whatever in this thread), but holy crap (via MisterIrrelevant)
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
But the crown made it!
"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 22, 2009 9:03 AM EDT up reply actions
And you wonder why parent’s age 20 years when they send their kids off to college. Stupid is as stupid does.
Apparently Nate Ewell thought your jab at team for allowing 2 goals in 11 seconds was uncalled for…
He may have a point, but if I was sitting in my seat at the Verizon Center last night and thought the EXACT same thing, then I don’t think it’s uncalled for at all, especially since I’m pretty sure I wasn’t the only one who had that thought running through their minds.
by PaintDrinkingPete on Sep 22, 2009 9:27 AM EDT reply actions
Nate and I are cool as cucumbers. I’m pretty sure he was jokin’.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
Exhibit "A" on why you shouldn't infer (note proper usage) too much from the preseason
A blogger for the Thrashers is mightily encouraged by their 4-2 victory over the ’Canes.
We all know Atlanta might improve some, but they’re not going to do anything this year. A game in the preseason doesn’t have much predictive value. Last night’s game isn’t anything to sweat too much.
I tend to glean no good news from preseason games. If folks play well, that’s nice, but ultimately meaningless. But if they don’t gel, I get worried. And if anyone gets hurt…
Atta dinnin stick a who!
by Gould Old Days on Sep 22, 2009 10:17 AM EDT up reply actions
Yeah, I’m with you to a certain extent on this. However, I think you have to temper even the negatives you might descry. Last night, the PP sucked. But they had Bradley, Giroux, hell I think even Joudrey got some time on the PP. That’s not going to happen in the regular season, so some of the bad results can be discounted.
AO and Green staying out there for 2 solid minutes…that I think you can legitimately worry over.
I think you have to temper even the negatives you might descry
But I’m a Caps fan…
{grin}
Atta dinnin stick a who!
by Gould Old Days on Sep 22, 2009 10:46 AM EDT up reply actions
Tell me all about it.
I can still see Esa Tikkanen missing a vacant net from 3 feet…and every 3-1 playoff series that got blown…
But this team is different! This team is not out-talented by any opposition. If one of the kid goalies – and I’m not sleeping on Neuvirth here – can have an inspired playoff run, this team has as good a shot as any to go deeeeep into the summer.
I think that’s a bit too dismissive. You can tell some things from pre-season, but mostly about the prospects. Giroux is getting all the chances and showing why he hasn’t stuck; Perreault played against a legit NHL D corps and showed he can at least skate with them and do some things with the puck.
If you're after gettin' the honey, then you don't go killin' all them bees.
by Fehr and Balanced on Sep 22, 2009 3:05 PM EDT up reply actions
Chris Neil exacts revenge...
…on Steve Downie during last night’s game for Downie’s clobbering of Dean McAmmond.
Can’t find video of the hit last night, though. Would love to see it.
Schultz sucks
Said the woman sitting in front of me….so I said , “who sucks more tonight….Green (chasing a guy on the first goal, WTF) or Schultz.”
and she said Schultz.
sigh
“I don’t listen or read any of that stuff. I’ve heard what people say, and that’s their opinion,” Schultz said. “I just have to go out and play my game. I’m not here to impress the fans – I am here to play for the guys on the team and the coaches.”
Good on him.
by David M. Getz on Sep 22, 2009 9:51 AM EDT up reply actions
Yup, I saw that, and I said GOOD.
"It is better to die on your feet than to live on your knees." - Delores Ibarruri
It’s the way you have to think if you’re a pro athlete, in my opinion. You gotta figure that only the superstars (like Ovechkin) and the fan favorite heart-on-the-sleeve types (Laing, Bradley) are the only guys above criticism. Heck I’m heard people rail on Norris finalist Mike Green and top ten scorer Backstrom. No matter what there’s always going to be people who think you suck and just because of the sheer volume of the crowd there’s always going to be a lot of them. If only ten percent of the fans think you suck, that’s 1,700-1,800 a night. Yikes.
If you’re in that situation you also have to consider the source. If a bunch of random idiots are clamoring that you suck while you coaches, your general managers, your teammates, and the majority of people analyzing your play who can string together a coherent sentence or two think you’re doing a good job and the numbers back it up, you’re probably in pretty good shape.
by David M. Getz on Sep 22, 2009 10:08 AM EDT up reply actions
Admittedly, I’ve only been to about a dozen games total since the lockout, but I don’t think I’ve ever heard a bad work about Backstrom. I have heard the “he’s a liability on D” thing from a fan on Green, but he had the bald-ponytail thing going, so his judgment was suspect from the get-go.
Winterion Game Studios
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Backstrom? Kid’s solid gold. He gets better every year. Minus the whole “I ate Swedish meatballs every day during the summer” coming to camp out of shape last year, I can’t think of a single negative thing to say about him.
Only the “benefits with Ovie” thing…and I think most of us concur that Backstrom has helped Ovie immensely too
by red army line on Sep 22, 2009 12:31 PM EDT up reply actions
Aside from Swedish Meatballs, he also feasts on secondary assists.
If you're after gettin' the honey, then you don't go killin' all them bees.
by Fehr and Balanced on Sep 22, 2009 3:09 PM EDT up reply actions
For those who say 55 is soft, he led both teams in hits with four (tied with Beagle).
Plus three shots and two blocks. If this is what a more aggressive approach under Woods yields, I like it.
by David M. Getz on Sep 22, 2009 10:30 AM EDT up reply actions
Why do you think we spend so much time talking about how Schultz is not “the SUCK!!!!11q”?
Everyone that is a regular here knows that he is a top 4 guy on this team. Everyone also knows that a vocal portion of the Caps fanbase seems to hate him, and feels its unjustified and unwarranted. It seems to me that we spend an incredible amount of time justifying to one another that Schultz is worthy of our praise.
Maybe, but my comment was more about whether or not Woods’ more aggressive approach (as opposed to Leach’s avoid mistakes at all costs approach) was showing up in Schultz’s play.
by David M. Getz on Sep 22, 2009 10:41 AM EDT up reply actions
I think Woods’ influence here is likely, but don’t sleep on 55’s weight gain and strengthening.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
by J.P. on Sep 22, 2009 10:43 AM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
Hmm… New/Old coach for a preseason game or two or a summer of conditioning and “finally being able to keep on some weight.” I’m going with this theory.
Atta dinnin stick a who!
by Gould Old Days on Sep 22, 2009 10:50 AM EDT up reply actions
I think Sct112 makes an excellent point, but I also think it’s important to note that being more willing to hit and take shots is a mental thing more than anything else.
If we were talking a big change in an aspect of his game that was about technique, I’d be hesitant to attribute changes to a coach this quickly, but for a mental aspect I think it’s certainly possible a coaching change let’s the player succeed immediately by allowing him to change his approach to the game. Look at Mike Green: in 07-08 he had three goals and seven points in 21 games under Hanlon and 15 goals and 31 assists in 61 games under Boudreau, including five goals and eleven assists in his first 8.
by David M. Getz on Sep 22, 2009 10:57 AM EDT up reply actions
Weight gain and increased strength will lead to his shots and hits being more effective, but his willingness to take shots is definitely a shift in his approach.
Schultz showed me one of the core capabilities of an elite defenseman last night: the speed and positioning to get body contact with an opponent, the strength to move him off the puck without getting off-balance, and the stick skills to take the puck and distribute it effectively, leading to a breakout. In essence, he stops an attack all by himself and reverses the flow of play sans the mucking in the corners that allows for line changes and a positional, territorial game.
The almost casual way he did it reminded me of Langway and Stevens. Now, I say this advisedly. Buffalo has a bunch of middling forwards; the aforementioned guys could do it to the best in the league. But I can’t think of another D man we’ve seen who did it with the almost casual air of the truly elite defenseman. Not Tinordi, not Hatcher, not Poti…
He only did it twice; a stud defender does it routinely. But it’s not something I’d ever seen before, and I was truly pleased to see it last night.
Thanks, now I’ve got an urge to watch Look Who’s Talking.
"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 22, 2009 11:04 AM EDT up reply actions
You can lead a man to truth, but you can’t make him think.
"It is better to die on your feet than to live on your knees." - Delores Ibarruri
That person has not been lead anywhere… not here, at least.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
On the contrary, I think the person is being led around by the great leader Meme.
"It is better to die on your feet than to live on your knees." - Delores Ibarruri
Was that the same Screaming Meme that was on the video board last night?
If you've read this far...seek help.
by ThePeerless on Sep 22, 2009 10:20 AM EDT up reply actions
No, that was Wes all night.
"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 22, 2009 10:21 AM EDT up reply actions
You can lead a horticulture, but you cannot make her think?
by fat_daddyo on Sep 22, 2009 10:15 AM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
No Brooks Laich, no win. Know Brooks Laich, know win.
The quote of the season so far. Very inspired. As inspired as the Caps were uninspired last night.
The team played like they were bogged down in quicksand (Schultz and Erskine notwithstanding). Some notes from Section 421.
When my friend, a Sabres fan, asked me who I thought was the star of the game, I said “The goal posts”. From where I was sitting, I think the Caps hit the post 4 or 5 times. Knuble had 2 of them, and also missed on one he should have popped past Lalime.
For being -2, Alzner, I thought played pretty well, meaning I barely noticed him. Of course, his only mistake was on the Sabres 2nd goal, and at that point he’s as far from me as you can get on the ice in the opposite corner.
I also didn’t notice Schultz at all. meaning he was doing his job effectively. Even then, if he’s leading the team in shots on goal when AO, Backstrom, Semin, and Green are playing, there’s an issue.
Nice step-up by Erskine on the hit. Idiot retaliation by Gaustad. My Sabre fan friend was shaking his head saying it was stupid.
I have no doubt Gabby will have a few choice words today at practice and they might have to do a little extra skating this afternoon…
Let's go Caps!
I’m not quite that close… row N, seats 5/6 :) – it’s usually me in my Laich jersey and my friend in her Bradley jersey.
by kellobellow on Sep 22, 2009 11:52 AM EDT up reply actions
No Brooks Laich, no win. Know Brooks Laich, know win.
I’m surprised my good friend kellobellow hasn’t adopted it as her signature line. ;)
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
hahaha… oh believe me, it crossed my mind right as my 7th period class walked in. figured i shouldn’t ignore them… but it will happen ;)
and there we go :)
thanks btw, i keep seeing cool ones and could never find one myself!
"No Brooks Laich, no win. Know Brooks Laich, know win."
Might work better if you use plurals:
No Brooks Laich, no wins. Know Brooks Laich, know wins.
Atta dinnin stick a who!
by Gould Old Days on Sep 22, 2009 3:02 PM EDT up reply actions
Caption on the photo for the article...
“Go away kid, ya bother me….”
Thank goodness it’s preseason…
Let's go Caps!
Well, there were a few mystery calls last night. I wasn’t going to mention it – it’s preseason for the officials too.
"It is better to die on your feet than to live on your knees." - Delores Ibarruri
Devorski’s mystery for the night was why the call that Bourque drew was interference and not a high stick.
"It is better to die on your feet than to live on your knees." - Delores Ibarruri
More off-topic stuff, but ...
I found a spot for October 1. It’s not quite what I had in mind, but they’re showing the game, and beggars can’t be choosers.
"It is better to die on your feet than to live on your knees." - Delores Ibarruri
So, Where do the Caps End Up?
Barring a truly horrific string of injuries (knocking on wood), here’s what I see for the Caps.
1. SE Divisional champs. I don’t think it’s going to be all that close, really. For th points lost due to stiffer competition in the SE, I think they make it up by not taking the whole spring off.
2. First overall in the East. I don’t believe Philly has it in them, due to their goaltending situation. The Bruins regress significantly as several of their key cogs regress to the mean, after simultaneous career seasons last year. And the Pens settle in under Bylsma and can’t keep their level of play up to the standards of the Cup run, as well as they miss a couple of key departures.
3. Playoffs – this is where it gets interesting. Playoff success depends on two things. First, a hot goaltender. Second, injuries. This second factor often informs the first one, btw. Theo ain’t gonna be that guy, in all likelihood. Can one of the kids step up and be that guy? Maybe.
Based on talent, I see the Caps getting to the Conference Finals. From there, it’s a crapshoot, but I am thinking that it’s a year early to say with confidence that their goaltending situation will be studly enough to bank on.
I generally agree, though we are (one) bad-ass defensive Dman short of a cup run, imo.
from the house that Red Jesus built
by bigonetimer on Sep 22, 2009 11:53 AM EDT up reply actions
Not true. Look at CAR’s Cup run. Or even PIT. Maybe you count Orpik as a bad-ass defensive Dman, but I don’t think he’s special. Certainly nothing the Caps can’t overcome the lack of.
If you're after gettin' the honey, then you don't go killin' all them bees.
by Fehr and Balanced on Sep 22, 2009 3:23 PM EDT up reply actions
2005-6 CAR is an interesting parallel, but their D was veteran-laden (Commodore, Hedican, Ward, Wesley) in a way that we are not (Poti, Erskine), and while certainly undecorated, that was a pretty solid group that was playing well within Laviolette’s possession system.
As far as PIT, I do count Orpik as a bad-ass defensive Dman, certainly better in that department than anyone on our roster in our organization. He played Semin well last spring: 0-6-6, -7 for 28. Yeah, I know, the thumb.
Honestly, it’s the piece we really lack: a true shutdown defenseman. Can we get to the playoffs as the #1 or 2 seed without one? Sure. I also believe said bad-ass puts us over the top.
from the house that Red Jesus built
In defense of Orpik: maybe he was the reason Semin’s thumb was in such bad shape.
Against Orpik: if he’s such a bad ass why was he playing against Semin’s line?
I agree Orpik would be an upgrade, and I agree that a “bad ass” puts us over the top. I just don’t know that we need one, or that it’s worth the cost of what it would take to get one.
If you're after gettin' the honey, then you don't go killin' all them bees.
by Fehr and Balanced on Sep 22, 2009 6:39 PM EDT up reply actions
Orpik is bad ass in the “plays dirty and gets away with it” sense. He was allowed to get away with murder against Semin the whole series.
I agree. But to some extent you have to say he did his job because one way or another Semin did squat. But how many teams don’t put their bad ass D out against AO?
If you're after gettin' the honey, then you don't go killin' all them bees.
by Fehr and Balanced on Sep 22, 2009 11:24 PM EDT up reply actions
1) The Caps should win the division. The only other thoroughbred in the race is Carolina, but they’re not as good as the Caps. I would expect the Canes to fight for that last home ice playoff berth in the East with the Atlantic runner up.
2) First in the East is reasonable, mostly because of extra games for the Caps vs. Atlanta, Tampa and Florida, vs. Pitt and Philly having to play extra games vs. the Rangers, Devils and Islanders.
3) Playoffs – There is no excuse for the Caps to not make the conference final, and face either Pittsbugh, Philly, or Boston. Then it comes down to injuries, and the Caps could be as healthy as anyone.
After that… who knows?
Let's go Caps!
With reasonable health, I can see a SCF berth. Then I think it really depends on how healthy/old the other team is.
by red army line on Sep 22, 2009 12:33 PM EDT up reply actions
I think they might have to go through all 3 to get to the SC, and god help whomever they face if the Caps have just trudged through that: they’ll be on the prowl for blood.
by DrinkingPartner on Sep 22, 2009 12:48 PM EDT up reply actions
How can you say there is no excuse for the Caps not to make the ECF? You say we should face PIT, PHI, or BOS, but what if we draw PHI in the first round, and BOS in the second round? Would it be acceptable to lose to one of those teams earlier? Just look at last year. By all rights the Caps were the true EC runner up, but we lost in the EC semi-finals. Playoff draw matters.
If you're after gettin' the honey, then you don't go killin' all them bees.
by Fehr and Balanced on Sep 22, 2009 3:25 PM EDT up reply actions
I have to agree here. If the Caps finish first they’re likely to face the fourth place team in round two, which is likely to be either Philly or Pittsburgh. If they finished second or third they play the second or third team in the second round and that could be any of the three F&B mentions.
by David M. Getz on Sep 22, 2009 3:33 PM EDT up reply actions
If the Caps finish tops in the East, they will get either the 4th, 5th, 6th or 7th seed in round two (having dispatched the 8th seed in round 1). From what I can tell, that would be one of Philly or Pitt (whomever is the runner up in the Atlantic), Carolina, the Rangers or Devils. The only way the Caps get Philly/Pitt or Carolina is if both the 2 seed (Atlantic winner) or 3 seed (Boston) hold serve. It is rare that all of the top 4 seeds advance in round 1.
I suspect the most likely result is that a team with a hot goaltender in the #6 or #7 spot can push his team into round 2. That would mean someone like Henrik Lundqvist, Martin Brodeur or Cam Ward getting their team out of round 1. I can see that happening, certainly, especially if the Rangers and Lundqvist match up with Boston.
Let's go Caps!
You’re just speculating and making my point. The draw matters, and nobody knows how it will shake out. Basically from your perspective it is only acceptable for the Caps to lose to BOS, PIT, or PHI. That should hold regardless of what round they face them.
If you're after gettin' the honey, then you don't go killin' all them bees.
by Fehr and Balanced on Sep 22, 2009 5:00 PM EDT up reply actions
Playoff success depends on two things. First, a hot goaltender.
I don’t think this is true anymore. MAF was far from “hot” last year, and Osgood was far from “hot” the year before. They both gave highly talented teams solid goaltending, but they didn’t drag their team anywhere. Neither ever looked “unbeatable” and I remember J.P. saying “as long as MAF is in the net we have a chance.” That’s how I felt too.
If you're after gettin' the honey, then you don't go killin' all them bees.
by Fehr and Balanced on Sep 22, 2009 3:22 PM EDT up reply actions
Walk up tickets
Did anyone go last night on whim and buy walk up tickets? Do they even keep any of those available?
Cowbell guy looked like he was ready… The Horn Guy was good at times, but he’s pacing himself for opening night…
Let's go Caps!
And The Goat must be saving his pipes.
by Scott in Shaw on Sep 22, 2009 4:51 PM EDT up reply actions
You know you’re a real fan when you hear names like The Horn Guy or Goat and can clearly picture them in your mind.
Its almost here everyone, its almost here…
"I am... *grins* ... 'Nobody' "
- Odysseus
by war_capitals on Sep 23, 2009 4:54 PM EDT up reply actions
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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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