Thursday Caps Clips: Lightning @ Caps Game Day
by J.P. on Nov 11, 2010 6:46 AM EST
in Caps Clips
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PrintYour savory breakfast links:
- Previews of tonight's tilt with Tampa from Vogs, CSN Washington (Masisak), WaPo (Wang), NHL.com, DCEx, St. Pete Times, Peerless, and RLS, and be sure to check out our SB Nation partner Raw Charge for more coverage from the other side of tonight's match up.
- No Steve Downie tonight for the Bolts. Too bad. [St. Pete Times]
- On Alexander Semin: "[A] source told ESPN.com on Wednesday that at this point, there is mutual interest from both parties to sit down in the new year and see whether there's a fit in terms of an extension." And that is how you make nothing sound like something. [ESPN (LeBrun)]
- Three for Three for games 13 through 15. [RtR]
- Eric Fehr, the pillow. [Blue Meadow Designs Blog (h/t Puck Daddy)]
- This year's rookies, by the numbers. [PHT]
- A couple of radio hits from yesterday:
- Mike Green on LaVar and Dukes. [106.7 The Fan (audio)]
- Brooks Laich on NHL Live! [NHL Live! (audio)]
- You're GMGM. You can keep Semin or Laich. Whom do you re-sign? [Hockey Independent]
- Speaking of signings, Alex Ovechkin will be autographing copies of his new DVD at Best Buy in Sterling next week. [@BestBuySterling]
- Big congrats to Steve Kolbe who will call his 1,000th Caps game tonight... [Dump 'n Chase]
- ... and a "thank you" to Ron Weber. [Box Seats]
- Courage Caps is back (sidenote: on this and every day, we thank all who have served and are serving in the armed forces who have made it possible for us to live the lives we live). [Capitals]
- Yesterday's big League-wide news was the revamped All-Star Game format. Yawn. [Puck Daddy]
- Finally, happy 38th birthday to Steve Konowalchuk.
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Nice game by the Pens last night. Isnt this typical for Crosby to run his team in the ground to start the season? What a Captain.
One, it’s not Sid’s fault, as I think he’s played pretty well. Two, they’ll make the playoffs at hte end of the day. I love it when they lose, but it’s tough to get too excited about it.
The Pens biggest problem is ‘tender. Why is Brent Johnson a career backup? It’s not because he lacks skill. It’s because if you play him like a starter, he falls apart, and his performance goes into the toilet. That’s what happened last night.
When he let in a couple of marginal ones last night, it sucked the air right out of the Pens. They need MAF to get his shit sorted out so they have a goalie they can play confidently in front of.
Patron saint of quality footwear.
He has shown the ability to be really good for short-ish periods before. Think back to Theo’s first year in DC. Theo struggled, BJ got hot, and for 10-12 games he was the guy. I think he got a little nagging injury, had a couple of not-so-great games, and Theo was back as the #1 guy.
I saw the third period of last night’s game, and BJ did not look good, imo.
MAF has looked horrible. The Pens need him to figure it out, because BJ is nearing the end of his run as a viable option to run out there every day. That’s all I’m saying.
Patron saint of quality footwear.
I had thought he’d get hurt before he played poorly, although he was playing so above his past record it couldn’t last forever. If I remember it right, Johnson lost the job back to Theo more because of injury at the wrong time than poor play. And then had his season ended by injury.
"It's always good to have vikings."
Yeah, the guy has only captained his team to two Cup finals and one championship. As a Captain, his team’s playoff series record is 8-2. Like him or not, the results suggest he’s a pretty good captain.
Just trying to capture the spirit of the thing...
by dcsportsfan1 on Nov 11, 2010 8:58 AM EST up reply actions
Not to take anything away from him but the Penguins had one hell of a defense during those two runs. What they have now isn’t even a shadow of its former self. You can criticize the guy some, but in the end the team just flat out isn’t as good as it used to be. Especially with Staal getting a case of dipietrosis this year.
Many a night from yonder ivied casement, ere I went to rest,
Did I look on great Orion sloping slowly to the West.
Let’s see if we’re singing this tune in April/May. IMO, the Pens are still a very good hockey team. Fleury’s struggles are a major worry, but their squad still looks pretty formidable to me.
by mechanicsville on Nov 11, 2010 1:45 PM EST up reply actions
I’m going to go ahead and rate this blueline as better than either of the Cup finals teams when Michalek and Letang aren’t missing time. Sydor was washed up, Hal Gill is a hugger, Mark Eaton was never good, Rob Scuderi isn’t as good as Zybnek Michalek. The only place I see that blueline as significantly stronger is Gonchar as PP QB, but even so, Goligoski and Letang aren’t terrible at it.
Brooks Orpik is theoretically better now than he was then, as a more seasoned, experienced D who just now turned 30.
I’m buying better scoring depth on the wings and better performances from MAF and Malkin, but I’m not buying better blueline.
"Essentially, all models are wrong, but some are useful" George E.P. Box
by Knee high to a duck on Nov 11, 2010 3:20 PM EST up reply actions
Michalek looked God awful last night. Really, really bad.
And I hear you talk the talk, but I don't see you walk the walk and I still don't believe a thing you say.
i’m not surprised, given that BOS scored 7 goals.
He hasn’t looked good this year, but I’m giving him a pass for now, since he’s been injured and his prior work in PHX was outstanding.
"Essentially, all models are wrong, but some are useful" George E.P. Box
by Knee high to a duck on Nov 11, 2010 3:43 PM EST up reply actions
Step aside Alex Semin, there’s a new leader for the worst SO attempt going.
"DON'T SAY THAT! Please! That is the worst, most stupid thing anyone could say! Cause it quite clearly isn't "only a game." I mean if it was do you honestly think I'd care this much?"
I don’t know what’s funnier. The shootout attempt. Or the announcer that said:
“I wonder how he’s feeling about being poor”
You know he said “fourth” and not “poor,” right?
Life With Spidey -- a blog about sports, travel, work, family and fun.
Representing Caps fandom in the Gateway to the West.
Would have been hysterical if he had said poor.
Unfortunately that whole clip is tainted because it’s the Buffalo crew. Like nails on a chalkboard.
Life With Spidey -- a blog about sports, travel, work, family and fun.
Representing Caps fandom in the Gateway to the West.
No kidding, someone needs to put Rick Jeannerette out to pasture. Or wherever Scott Norwood was put into hiding.
I poured spot remover on my dog. Now he's gone.
by Rather Bengt on Nov 11, 2010 9:28 AM EST up reply actions
I heard “poor” too. Hahaha. But yeah, epic fail.
I like Laich, but I <3 Green
by RockinRed4Life on Nov 11, 2010 10:17 AM EST up reply actions
Since he didn’t shoot, and the puck was continuing to move forward, couldn’t he have chased it down and at least gotten a shot off? That was sad and I almost…almost…feel sorry for the Devils.
Just trying to capture the spirit of the thing...
by dcsportsfan1 on Nov 11, 2010 8:43 AM EST up reply actions
Yeah, it’s hard to feel sorry for a guy making millions, but I kind of did. Poor Kovy couldn’t get off the ice fast enough. The funny part was watching the reaction of the Buffalo goalie who at first looked totally confused and then when he realized he’d won gave a half-hearted fist pump.
I went to watch the video thinking it would be hilarious but…no. Sad. I felt bad for Kovalchuk. I did NOT feel bad for the Devils, however.
If anyone needs me, I'll be at Kettler.
I well never feel bad for a man getting paid millions to play a game he loves.
The guy is Peter Schumpmaker. Lord knows what a schump is, but you can bet your bippy his ancestors made them. What he's doing is far worse than crafting fine schumps.
by Steckel Me Elmo on Nov 11, 2010 8:53 AM EST up reply actions
Well, let me clarify – I’ll never feel as bad for someone like that as I do for people who have experienced real tragedy and hardship in their lives. When I say I feel bad for him it’s my sports-level sympathy kicking in, totally different.
He’s still a competitor and a professional and he wants to win – the pressure he’s feeling (somewhat self-induced, but still) must be immense, and to literally have the game on your stick and fail? Awful.
If anyone needs me, I'll be at Kettler.
Reminds me of the Cowboys. At first it was fun to watch them lose, now when I watch their epic beatdowns I feel a little sorry for them. During their last game, I found myself wishing they would score a TD at the very least with their backup QB.
You are soffff. No sympathy for them either.
Lockout talk makes me want to go out and choke an old lady - Elliotte Friedman
by Rob Parker on Nov 11, 2010 1:42 PM EST up reply actions 2 recs
What’s with people feeling bad when teams they hate finally start to fail?! No sympathy for those jerks! Ever.
The guy is Peter Schumpmaker. Lord knows what a schump is, but you can bet your bippy his ancestors made them. What he's doing is far worse than crafting fine schumps.
by Steckel Me Elmo on Nov 11, 2010 1:44 PM EST up reply actions 1 recs
Well I don’t have Cowboys hatred breed into me since I didn’t grow up here. I’ve only been a skins fan for about 3 years. The Cowboys just seem so pathetic with half the team or more quitting on them. I don’t want to them to start winning games, but they just seem so dysfunctional and pathetic.
If you’ve only been a Skins fan for 3 years, then maybe you should keep your Cowboy feelings to yourself! (kidding, sort of)
by mechanicsville on Nov 11, 2010 1:49 PM EST up reply actions
Then I guess I shouldn’t post anymore on this board either because I’ve only been a caps fan for a couple years. Seriously, what is a person supposed to do when they move to a new area? It takes time to assimilate and like the local teams. But I’ll stop talking about the Cowboys here because it has nothing to do with hockey and I guess people can’t handle someone expressing anything other than hatred for them.
ok, so first you tell me not to post, then you call me a man. How about going for the trifecta and insulting my looks?
I’m just kidding mostly.
My use of “bud” was to be short for “buddy” which I didn’t think was gender-specific. My too subtle sarcasm was meant to poke fun at rabid Skins fans who had no choice b/c they were born in the DC area. Clearly it missed the mark and I promise to re-calibrate my scope before firing again. And, as far as your looks are concerned, I’m sure you look marvelous!
by mechanicsville on Nov 11, 2010 2:18 PM EST up reply actions
Yup. The last time this happened, they turned the Herschel Walker draft pick into three super bowls
Atta dinnin stick a who!
by Gould Old Days on Nov 11, 2010 1:56 PM EST up reply actions
Herschel Walker
Best Jewish football player ever.
And I hear you talk the talk, but I don't see you walk the walk and I still don't believe a thing you say.
by D'ohboy on Nov 11, 2010 2:00 PM EST up reply actions 1 recs
I have no sports sympathy for a guy who pulls the kind of nonsense Kovalchuk pulled in the offseason.
Release the Mackan!
by Killer_Carlson on Nov 11, 2010 11:22 AM EST up reply actions 4 recs
Why? Kovy wasn’t like LeBron, he just took a while deciding where to go, trying to get the best contract possible.
Proud member of the Popsicle Division of the Cupcake Conference.
Exactly. And actually I’d bet the delay had more to do with the Devils trying to figure out how to give him the money he wanted while still fitting him under the cap than it did with Kovalchuk doing anything in particular. It was mildly annoying, yes, but I lay the blame on – and thus have absolutely no sympathy for – the team, not the player.
If anyone needs me, I'll be at Kettler.
On the other hand, if Kovy dropped his ridiculous “I need to be the hightest paid player and I need to get more money than Ovechkin” demands, none of this would have happened.
And I hear you talk the talk, but I don't see you walk the walk and I still don't believe a thing you say.
by D'ohboy on Nov 11, 2010 11:37 AM EST up reply actions 5 recs
Do we know that for sure that’s what he did, though? Or is that just what people were speculating as it dragged on?
He probably wanted to get paid, a lot, and while I don’t agree he deserves more than Ovechkin (or Crosby for that matter) and while the fact that it dragged out for-freaking-ever was beyond annoying, I understand it. He was looking for his last big contract, he didn’t want to move around anymore and he wanted out of Atlanta. And speaking of Atlanta, if it was just about the money he would have stayed…they were offering him $10 mil a year, weren’t they?
If anyone needs me, I'll be at Kettler.
If Kovy were to produce the way he’s being paid to, he’d have no PR problems at all. But after causing such a huge ruckus with his contract demands(not really his fault, but tough, he gets blamed too), he has got to justify his pay, and he’s looking very mediocre out there.
He definitely should have chosen his team a bit more carefully. NJ was never going to be a good fit for him.
You had me at no problem.
This is just it, though. He went to a team that didn’t fit his style, and that had clear cap issues to start with, and a fading window to win. Why? Because they were willing to pay him the arbitrary number that he had drawn as a line in the sand.
I have precious little sympathy for him.
Patron saint of quality footwear.
by fat_daddyo on Nov 11, 2010 11:59 AM EST up reply actions 1 recs
Agreed. Why leave Atlanta to go to a team that doesn’t fit his style of play? I can somewhat understand wanting to leave one team and/or go to winning team, but don’t just pick a winning team for the money unless you will absolutely make them better.
I don’t have much tolerance for stupid. Or cheese on food that doesn’t need it. -duck
by twistedlogic on Nov 11, 2010 12:11 PM EST up reply actions
Why leave Atlanta? That has become the big question in my mind. The money was the same, maybe even a bit better. I guess maybe it seemed like the Devils were a better pick to win a cup sometime soon… And boy, does that look not so much the case. Today.
You had me at no problem.
If I were him, I think I’d leave Atlanta too…for LA.
by red army line on Nov 11, 2010 12:17 PM EST up reply actions
That similar $$ that Atlanta offered story – wasn’t it originally spread as $10M per year for 10 years? I always thought that story was suspect.
"I would feed them lefts until I was pretty much tired of doing it." - Alan May, JRR, 10.16.2010
$70MM over 7 years, or $101MM over 12 years.
http://www.tsn.ca/nhl/story/?id=308935
You had me at no problem.
I somewhat have a problem with players in any sport leaving one team for “a chance to win a championship.” That whole excuse sounds just sounds stupid to me. You were drafted or signed originally to help make the team better. Bolt at the first chance for a winning team just so you can try to win a championship? That sounds very LeBron-esque and I’d be wary of a player like him, since he likes to quit when he won’t win.
I don’t have much tolerance for stupid. Or cheese on food that doesn’t need it. -duck
by twistedlogic on Nov 11, 2010 12:23 PM EST up reply actions
I don’t have a problem with players leaving for a team that they think will give them a chance to win a championship. Not all players are like Lebron and rub it in the face of their fans.
by vtcapsfan99 on Nov 11, 2010 12:27 PM EST up reply actions
I guess with the salary cap, it isn’t a huge deal in hockey. It’s a bigger deal in baseball, since all of the prized FAs bolt for the Yankees since they know they’ll have an incredible team. I just tire of hearing that the excuse for leaving is “I want to win a championship” but the player never stops to think that they might be a part of the problem.
I don’t have much tolerance for stupid. Or cheese on food that doesn’t need it. -duck
by twistedlogic on Nov 11, 2010 1:16 PM EST up reply actions
Maybe the player is part of the problem (and I think Kovy does bare some blame for ATL never even winning a playoff game), but for the most part when players do that the lack of success more to do with the team than the individual. These are team sports we are talking about.
Release the Mackan!
by Killer_Carlson on Nov 11, 2010 1:32 PM EST up reply actions
Becausethe ownership inAtlanta is a complete trainwreck?
The train wreck goes up and down the organization, ownership, GM, scouting… they have a decent coach, but precious few players of value…most of the quality players they’ve had have been traded…
Washington Capitals 2009-10 = Quebec Nordiques 1994-95
--- D'ohboy
by MikeL-Pivonka on Nov 11, 2010 1:13 PM EST up reply actions
It’s true that it’s not a good fit now, with Lamorello there. But the new owner has very different ideas about the right way to play hockey, and Lou ain’t going to last nearly as long as Kovy will.
Kovalchuk’s “resurgence” under a new regime is going to be a big story either next year or the year after.
Atta dinnin stick a who!
by Gould Old Days on Nov 11, 2010 4:28 PM EST up reply actions
I don’t care how long he takes. My problem is that every outward action of him has suggested he cares far more about himself and his money than his team actually doing well. He didn’t need a lifetime contract, he didn’t need (or deserve, IMO) to be a $100 million player. If he wanted a ton of money and a chance to win there were teams like the Kings who could have afforded to pay a king’s ransom (I kill me!) in the short term. But given the market this summer, by demanding $100 mil he essentially demolished the pool of potential teams and guaranteed that he would kill the cap situation of any team he did sign with. I have no sympathy for him if that strategy fails to lead to success for him personally or on the team level.
Release the Mackan!
by Killer_Carlson on Nov 11, 2010 11:59 AM EST up reply actions 5 recs
I have to agree.
The Devils are basically hosed this season.
His cap hit is $6,666,666 for the next fifteen years (according to capgeek.com) – fitting for the Devils – but what’s really weird is they have his salary going back up the last two years of the contract.
He’s got a no-movement clause for several years, then a no-trade clause for the rest of the contract, and I have a feeling that unless he starts producing like his contract says he should be able to, the Devils are going to regret that deal for a long, long time.
Photography: I Rock the Red
Twitter: @IRockTheRed
E-mail: irockthered {at} gmail {dot} com
You’re GMGM. You can keep Semin or Laich. Whom do you re-sign?
Short answer: it depends on the money.
Longer answer: I doubt GMGM could bring himself to say “neither”, but I’d like to see it happen. Assuming that neither of them is interested in taking a pay cut, that is. There are plenty of guys out there that can do what Laich does, just as well, for at or under his $2.2M cap number. Sasha Semin is another story, but I’m not trusting his contract-drive numbers to continue after this year; and the Caps need to invest some FA dollars at positions other than wing.
Patron saint of quality footwear.
That’s gotta be a tough one. Brooks has consistency, reliability, he does everything that’s asked. He never looks like he’s tired or slacking.
But he’s no where near as talented as Semin.
But you’re right. A lot of guys can do what Laich can, maybe not as well. But Semin is just an ace up the sleeve. I don’t think there’s anyone out there that plays like him. I’d keep Sasha
This coming from a guy that wanted to dump him last year
If Sasha could give you this level of effort consistently, he’d be acceptable at that $6M number, regardless of the cap problems it caused you. I’m just real skeptical that he’ll do it in anything other than a contract year. It’s tough to do, I admit, but I think you’ve got to let him go.
Patron saint of quality footwear.
Gotta make this brief, but both guys are playing well above the contract levels you’ve laid out. Semin in particular is blowing 6mm out of the water. If it keeps up, he’s worth much more than that, but that’s always been his rub.
"Essentially, all models are wrong, but some are useful" George E.P. Box
by Knee high to a duck on Nov 11, 2010 8:29 AM EST via mobile up reply actions
Which is part of why no one is going to give him more than that. The other part is that there probably isn’t going to be anyone who can afford the cap hit.
"It's always good to have vikings."
If Semin doesn’t sign an extension before July 1, we’ll get to find out. But I don’t think it’s crazy sitting here now to think that he might put together a consistent season of doing what he’s doing now. Happens all the time to streaky players that they have one magic season where everything goes right — especially in a contract year. We’ll see what happens
Atta dinnin stick a who!
by Gould Old Days on Nov 11, 2010 8:42 AM EST up reply actions
I don’t think Semin’s improved play this year is solely due to it being a contract year. Corey’s article on Semin had his agent saying Semin was very bothered by what happened in the playoffs last year. I think that is also affecting him. The entire team seems a little more mature, realizing they have to change the way they play if they want to win a Cup.
I think 28’s ‘just like the team, only more so’. Lots of talent still climbing the discipline curve; somewhat mistaken about how far talent alone can take you; and threatening to put all the pieces together. There will be brain farts, along with dominant 51-minute performances.
Without Semin, Caps dont have a 2nd line that anyone sweats. Without Brooks Laich, the Caps don’t have Brooks Laich.
There's no 'i' in "team". But there's a 'nap' in "champion".
Let’s just say, I don’t think the contract year is “the reason,” but I don’t think it hurts either
Atta dinnin stick a who!
by Gould Old Days on Nov 11, 2010 9:21 AM EST up reply actions
Corey’s article on Semin had his agent saying Semin was very bothered by what happened in the playoffs last year.
You expect his agent to say “Alex knows this is a big contract year for him, and so he’s extra motivated to get a huge deal in the summer”?
Release the Mackan!
by Killer_Carlson on Nov 11, 2010 11:25 AM EST up reply actions
No, but he doesn’t really have to say anything. I buy it. I always feel like the fatalistic thing Ovie and Semin do has little to do with how they really feel. Not to generalize, but it’s probably more of a North American trait to be so “heart on your sleeve”, particularly with the media, the way someone like Laich or Green has been.
If anyone needs me, I'll be at Kettler.
The agent doesn’t have to say anything, but saying the playoff loss really bothered Semin boosts his client’s reputation, so why wouldn’t he say it?
I hope it’s true, but it’s going to take a hell of a lot more than a statement from his agent to convince me.
Release the Mackan!
by Killer_Carlson on Nov 11, 2010 12:02 PM EST up reply actions
Fair enough…and again, it’s all just words at this point. I guess I just buy it more because he’s working harder, seems more invested and is doing things that other teams might not care about if they were looking to sign him. But they will make him more appreciated by the Caps – if he had become a UFA last summer I’m betting he would have gotten a bunch of money just for the goal-scoring ability and insane talent alone.
…but that’s just me. I’m hoping that a) he keeps it up and b) he stays here, especially if he keeps it up.
If anyone needs me, I'll be at Kettler.
The things you point out in your first paragraph is exactly what will convince me he’s changed. It will just take doing those things for more than 15 games in October/November till I’m over the inconsistency problems.
Release the Mackan!
by Killer_Carlson on Nov 11, 2010 1:36 PM EST up reply actions
I’m guessing it may take a Conn Smythe?
by mechanicsville on Nov 11, 2010 2:00 PM EST up reply actions
A Conn Smythe on it’s own won’t do it, it depends on how he wins the Conn Smythe. Malkin has a Conn Smythe but I’m still not at all sold on him being consistent. Even the people here who gripe about Semin’s inconsistency acknowledge that he could get balls hot in the playoffs and win a Conn Smythe. That won’t necessarily mean he’s overcome consistency problems or other flaws in his game.
But it would sure as hell make me happy.
Release the Mackan!
by Killer_Carlson on Nov 11, 2010 2:06 PM EST up reply actions
Conn Smythe implies Stanley Cup. If Semin is key in bringing that to Washington? I can die a happy girl.
"Do you see my fist? It was fists like these that built quaint Canadian cities out of the harsh Canadian wilderness, etc. etc."
Not in Seattle anymore.
by SeattleCapsFan on Nov 11, 2010 2:08 PM EST up reply actions
Conn Smythe implies Stanley Cup.
I wish.
Regards,
R. Hextall
Just trying to capture the spirit of the thing...
by dcsportsfan1 on Nov 11, 2010 2:26 PM EST up reply actions 1 recs
(I inferred a Stanley Cup)
Atta dinnin stick a who!
by Gould Old Days on Nov 11, 2010 5:41 PM EST up reply actions
My usual Conn Smythe line is really proving the other side of his nature — quite how high the highs and how low the lows have been. You don’t win a Conn Smythe for long-term consistency, but for short-term brilliance (which he’s certainly capable of)
Atta dinnin stick a who!
by Gould Old Days on Nov 11, 2010 4:29 PM EST up reply actions
Why do you care what motivated Semin to change, as long as he has changed? I suppose you think the caps could resign him for too much and he’d revert back to his old self next season. I don’t see that happening personally, but you never know with Semin. I’m just grateful to have him while some of the other top players on the team are in some kind of funk.
by vtcapsfan99 on Nov 11, 2010 12:31 PM EST up reply actions
Motivation is actually very important, especially in big-time professional athletics. If it’s the money he’s after (and I do not think this is the case), once he hits paydirt, he will “regress” to same ol’ Sasha, doing what he can to get by while staying in his comfort zone.
If he’s motivated by pride and elevating the Caps to their highest possible finish, then this is the sort of gift that keeps giving, game after game, year after year……..
by Pi on Nov 11, 2010 1:04 PM EST up reply actions 1 recs
Exactly. When you are considering signing a guy to a huge contract motivation is critical.
Release the Mackan!
by Killer_Carlson on Nov 11, 2010 1:37 PM EST up reply actions
I think Semin is motivated by some of the right reasons, but you are correct, he needs to prove it the entire season. But if Semin ends up somewhere else next season and he doesn’t play as well, I wouldn’t necessary think that was because he was only playing for the contract. I could see him doing worse because he wasn’t in his comfort zone anymore and he wasn’t motivated to make up for a bad playoff experience the prior year.
This is his motivation. . .
. . . the weight of 3 major failures in one season: Olympics, SC playoffs, and silver in WC. I think the contract year issue is overplayed. He was in a contract year last year, signed at the end of Dec., and continued on course for a career year.
He’s a competitor, he has professional pride, and I cannot imagine a heavier weight than standing there, looking as he does, realizing that every major tournament you tried to win, you failed at, two of them quite miserably.
Semin’s the kind of player who is supposed to make a difference on a team. Any person in that position with the epic failures would have to look closely at why it didn’t work. I tihnk it was Becca who referenced their fatalistic responses and I agree. Sasha and Ovi are not going to take to the public couch the way Green might (which is fine for him). But, that does not mean they are not painfully aware of how badly things went.
Green even mentioned in the radio interview how Sasha has matured, too, and has opened up more. BB has talked about the changes he’s seen. It would not surprise me to learn that Semin spent the summer looking at video, maybe with someone critical, to see what he needs to do differently.
Certainly, only time this season will tell if he can sustain the more physical and tenacious play he’s brought to each game so far. But, if it continues all season (now, there’s bound to be a bad game here and there), and he plays well in the playoffs, then I’d call it an evolution. I get the sense that it’s exceedingly important to him to win the SC with the Caps.
Finally (sorry this is long), I think it’s interesting that the 2 players who took the most grief for the flame-out, Green and Sasha, have been the best players this season so far. Both seem to have arrived here with a different attitude and mindset, and renewed commitment to doing whatever it takes. I just hope in the process they don’t get injured.
by Seminrocks on Nov 11, 2010 3:04 PM EST up reply actions 8 recs
Semin was an RFA last time around, this is his first chance at UFA, and thus the really big bucks.
Green has always been a regular season beast so I’m not really shocked by that at all. We’re going to have a long season ahead of us of “will Green and Semin show up for the playoffs?” No matter how well they play, that’s going to hang over them. There’s nothing they can do right now.
Lockout talk makes me want to go out and choke an old lady - Elliotte Friedman
by Rob Parker on Nov 11, 2010 3:46 PM EST up reply actions 1 recs
I understand your point, but I still think even UFA contract motivation is overplayed. He’s going to get paid well no matter what.
There IS something they can do right now: they can play the way all season the way they need to in the playoffs. One thing I remember Semin saying is how can he be expected to play one way all season, then a different way in the playoffs? I think he has a point if it’s a matter of approach./style vs intensity. Seems to me he’s trying a different approach, as well as intensity. He’s had hot goal-scoring starts (and finishes, for that matter), but has he come out before with this consistent intensity for 14 games straight and (hopefully) counting?
If this is his new approach to playing and we see it consistently throughout the season (with a hiccup here or there), then I see no reason it will be different for the playoffs. That would be a good thing.
Semin could win the Art Ross and Green could lead the league in D scoring again and people would still say “but will they bring it in the playoffs” on the eve of the first round. Guaranteed.
Lockout talk makes me want to go out and choke an old lady - Elliotte Friedman
Pretty much, yeah – just as the Caps could win the Presidents’ Trophy and break all kinds of point total records and winning streak records and people would still say "but will they bring it in the playoffs". Depressing.
If anyone needs me, I'll be at Kettler.
Just reality, right? I’m choosing to call the doubters part of the fun. And the “will they bring it in the playoffs” question will remain valid until the Caps, you know, bring it.
by mechanicsville on Nov 11, 2010 4:24 PM EST up reply actions 1 recs
The only difference between the two is that Semin has actually had some good playoff series. He was hurt against Pitt and did very little and we all remember the 0-for last year against the Habs. Oh for that deflection in the first period of Game 7 to not ring the iron…
Everything ends badly...otherwise it wouldn't end.
by Davethecapsfan on Nov 11, 2010 4:41 PM EST up reply actions
We forget this now because it’s been overshadowed by crappy performances since, but as I recall Green was pretty good in his first playoff series against the Flyers.
If anyone needs me, I'll be at Kettler.
Ball-shatteringly good, in fact.
Release the Mackan!
by Killer_Carlson on Nov 11, 2010 4:53 PM EST up reply actions 3 recs
Poor crying Sasha:( The past year was very hard on him and Ovie. In the GQ interview, didn’t Ovie get very somber and say something about how Malkin has bested him in the NFL because he’s won the cup? I think you are correct in that all these major losses have deeply affected both Alexes, even if they don’t show it publicly. Semin wouldn’t even admit to working out much in the summer.
Thanks for that SR. As I said above, I don’t think the contract year hurts, but I don’t think any of what you wrote about here “hurts” either. I believe 100% that all of this motivates him right now too. My big fear with Sasha is that he’ll get hurt, rush back, fall into old habits, etc. But for now, it’s fantastic to watch him every night, no matter why he’s playing so well.
The guy is a riddle enigma puzzle hard to figure out.
Atta dinnin stick a who!
by Gould Old Days on Nov 11, 2010 4:34 PM EST up reply actions
There are plenty of guys out there that can do what Laich does, just as well, for at or under his $2.2M cap number.
I think this idea starts to break down when you try to name them. The truth is, the Caps are getting very good value from Laich. He’s getting gaudy numbers, not just because of the position the Caps have put him in and the players he gets to play with, but also because he has pretty good skills himself.
With that said, the question is about their next contract, not their current one. So I agree 100% with
Short answer: it depends on the money.
One other factor is the farm system. The Caps just drafted Kuznetzov and Galiev, one of whom may replace Semin’s production in a couple of years. They also have Cody Eakin, who might take some of Laich’s role. And of course there’s Andrew Gordon, who I think could turn into a decent net crashing forward once he starts putting on a bit more weight, but I know most folks don’t see him on the top two lines in the NHL.
Atta dinnin stick a who!
by Gould Old Days on Nov 11, 2010 8:36 AM EST up reply actions 1 recs
Laich has always been streaky, and he’s hot right now. His PDO is 110+ (if I recall KHTAD’s post from yesterday correctly, anyway). I’m assuming Laich ends up with 25 or so goals and 50-some points again.
You don’t feel like there are plenty of guys that could put up those numbers, given his PP time and 2L role?
Patron saint of quality footwear.
Not who are paid 2.2 Million on more than their first or second contract.
Atta dinnin stick a who!
by Gould Old Days on Nov 11, 2010 9:21 AM EST up reply actions
And Laich himself ain’t going to be paid no 2.2 Million next year, either
Atta dinnin stick a who!
by Gould Old Days on Nov 11, 2010 9:22 AM EST up reply actions
And that says something is out of whack with the compensation in this league. 2.2 sounds perfectly fair for someone of his skill set. Maybe a touch more. Are people thinking he is going to get 4 million? If so, peace out, yo
I predict he gets a 50-75% raise. I’d be surprised to see him above 4 (though he could hit 4)
Atta dinnin stick a who!
by Gould Old Days on Nov 11, 2010 10:05 AM EST up reply actions
You’re underselling his skill set.
I know that Laich-bashing has become somewhat in vogue at the Rink (“he doesn’t go to the front of the net enough! He’s not good 5-on-5! He’s not as much of a leader as people think he is! Folks just like him because he’s pretty!”) but the fact of the matter is this: there are plenty of teams that need a guy who can put up points on the power play by standing in front, or to the side, of the net and jamming in rebounds. There are plenty of teams that want a guy who will say all the right things to the media without coming off as boring.
But more than that, there are plenty of teams that, frankly, will pay ridiculous amounts of guys who get injured way more often than Laich does (he’s missed 13 games over the past four seasons), don’t score as much, don’t put up as many points, and don’t play in all game situations. In fact, some examples!
The only other guy I can think of who has put up Laichian production for a similar amount of money is Mike Knuble, and he was 37 when he signed that contract.
There are a ton of guys out there who have cap hits that are much higher than 2.2 million and have never put up points with the same level of consistency. Some examples:
Dan Cleary – 2.8 million cap hit
Tuomo Ruutu – 3.8 million cap hit
Colby Armstrong – 3.0 million cap hit
Manny Malhotra – 2.5 million cap hit
Radim Vrbata – 3.0 million cap hit
Antii Miettinen – 2.33 million cap hit
If you include centers, then the numbers balloon.
Mike Fisher – 4.25 million cap hit
Matthew Lombardi – 3.5 million cap hit
Dainius Zubrus – 3.5 million cap hit (and last two seasons with the Caps roughly matched Laich’s level of production over the last two seasons)
Some other team will pay well above 2.2 million for Brooks Laich, and GMGM had better know that if he wants to retain him.
by Wheeler on Nov 11, 2010 10:18 AM EST up reply actions 1 recs
I think the other aspect that gets overlooked is that he is a Dutch boy — center losing face-offs? Throw Laich in. Two defense injured in the game and no one left on the blue line? Throw Laich in. He won’t be the best at any position, but he can play all of them.
Wouldn’t be surprised to see him borrow Stretch’s gear if (knock on wood) two goalies went down at the same time.
"Inglewood Jack! Inglewood Jack!" - Coach Jules
by Alz Well That Ends Well on Nov 11, 2010 10:23 AM EST up reply actions
I didn’t mention that because I didn’t want to hear the cries of “Laich sucks as a center!” but his versatility is certainly an asset.
So Brooks Laich is good at everything, but not a specialist at anything?
Atta dinnin stick a who!
by Gould Old Days on Nov 11, 2010 4:37 PM EST up reply actions 3 recs
Jack of all trades, master of none. Although I’ve heard he is good with tires.
I don’t have much tolerance for stupid. Or cheese on food that doesn’t need it. -duck
by twistedlogic on Nov 11, 2010 4:48 PM EST up reply actions
Is that Flash on the far right?
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
by J.P. on Nov 11, 2010 4:51 PM EST up reply actions 2 recs
I believe that’s Matt Pettinger
Atta dinnin stick a who!
by Gould Old Days on Nov 11, 2010 5:14 PM EST up reply actions 3 recs
that’s why i never selected him in super mario kart!
by Natty Bumppo on Nov 11, 2010 5:14 PM EST up reply actions
Actually, I don’t think anyone on here disagrees with anything you’ve said.
The issue is that Laich’s skillset (and accompanying persona), could put him in the $4m+ price range.
You’ll note that a lot of the players you’ve listed have what are charitably considered to be really inflated contracts.
One of the lessons in the post-lockout world is that secondary players (Zubie, Armstrong) tend to get overpaid relative to their output, whereas true stars (Ovie, Crosby, Keith, etc.) are usually good bargains. The reason for this is that guys like Zubie, Armstrong and Laich are the product of their situation and their teammates. That’s not a knock on them, because not everyone could produce as much as they do given similar circumstances, but it means that they’re passengers on the bus, they’re not the drivers.
On a team with four legitimate superstars (i.e., drivers), the GM can’t afford to overpay his passengers, and $4m+ for Laich is an overpayment. I’d hate to see him go, but if that’s the offer he gets elsewhere, the Caps can’t afford him.
And I hear you talk the talk, but I don't see you walk the walk and I still don't believe a thing you say.
The big question is also, does Laich like the Caps enough to take a paycut to stay here? And to be honest, I can’t really tell.
"Do you see my fist? It was fists like these that built quaint Canadian cities out of the harsh Canadian wilderness, etc. etc."
Not in Seattle anymore.
by SeattleCapsFan on Nov 11, 2010 10:47 AM EST up reply actions
I think it depends on how big the potential home town discount is. Talk is cheap, but he definitely talks like someone who wants to be here for the long haul.
"It's always good to have vikings."
But see this is why I can’t really tell. We all know how good Brooks is at the PR statements. I can’t tell how much of that “I love playing here” is him saying what he thinks people want to hear, and how much of it is genuine.
There’s also the Cup factor, in that this team is so damn close he might also want to stick around because he sees it as his best shot at a Cup.
"Do you see my fist? It was fists like these that built quaint Canadian cities out of the harsh Canadian wilderness, etc. etc."
Not in Seattle anymore.
by SeattleCapsFan on Nov 11, 2010 10:53 AM EST up reply actions
Yeah, I’m with you. An optimist would look at Brooks and see a team-first guy who just wants to win a Cup with “his boys.” A cynic would look at the situation and think that Brooks’ agent will drive him to ask for $4.5m.
I guess I’ll try to have faith in a former Seattlite.
And I hear you talk the talk, but I don't see you walk the walk and I still don't believe a thing you say.
Brooks really really wants to win a championship. I am mostly sure he’s not interested in anchoring somebody’s rebuild.
Oddly enough, if they could find the money for him, I could see Brooks going to…the Pittsburgh Penguins.
I think Sid’s style is a more natural fit for him than Ovi’s loosey goosey captaining ways.
However it all falls out, it would be best if this Caps team, THIS YEAR, just goes ahead and gets it done.
You perhaps knew me better as "Your Nation's Capital." Same great commentary, now with 100% more transparency!
Brooks really really wants to win a championship.
Brooks also wants financial security. If he’s smart, he’ll realize that, given the way he plays, his run of good health won’t last forever. If he signs a 4-year deal now for $4m/year, he doesn’t need to worry about whether or not he’s an injured wreck by 31.
And I hear you talk the talk, but I don't see you walk the walk and I still don't believe a thing you say.
Exactly. I do think Laich would take slightly less to stay in DC, but he has to be realistic. $1m a year, for example, is more money than any player is likely to leave on the table, especially considering that it’s almost half of what he’s currently making. I could see him taking 3.8 vs. 4 or something, but it’s gotta be close.
Regarding going to a rebuilding team – if you’ve already been there and done that, wouldn’t it take a ridiculous contract and then some to get you to do it again? If it’s your choice of course.
"It's always good to have vikings."
Would it be ridiculously sentimental to remember that Laich was part of the return for the Bondra trade that broke half our hearts? Brooks’ contributions are in some small way the last method that Bonzai’s giving back to us, lord knows no one wanted to ever see him leave…
As for a rebuilding team (and who would be more likely to afford the bigger, better deal that he could take), I think Brooksie would make a fine captain if, as folks have pointed out, he’s speaking from his heart and not his copy of “Crash Davis’ Sports Cliches for Poster Boys”?
"I am... *grins* ... 'Nobody' "
- Odysseus
by war_capitals on Nov 11, 2010 3:02 PM EST up reply actions
I doubt Laich asks for that much money, and I doubt any other team in the league is going to pay $4.5 million for that. Even the grossly overinflated contracts up there don’t come close to that much.
I think a better comparison would be, say, R.J. Umberger. Umberger signed as an RFA, but gave up three UFA years, during which he makes 3.5, 4, and 4.5, for what would be a cap hit of 4.0 mil if you only looked at RFA years. Subtract 10% for playing on a crappy team, another 5% for playing in a less desirable city, and another 10% for Umberger being a center who can play wing (rather than vice versa), and maybe add 10% to that total signing as an RFA. Total, you end up with a cap hit of about 3.3 million cap hit.
My guess is that Brooks signs somewhere in that 3.0-3.5 range, which is consistent with GOD’s “50% to 75%” raise theory.
Fisher’s best season is 53 points. Fisher is a center, but he has also dealt with lots of injuries in his career.
Laich’s best season is 59 points. Laich could conceivably be viewed by some around the league as a center, and the guy never misses games (yet).
Fisher gets $4.5. I think there’s a team out there who would be willing to ante up $4m+ for Laich.
And I hear you talk the talk, but I don't see you walk the walk and I still don't believe a thing you say.
Fisher is generally regarded as a better two-way player than Laich, and part of the reason for his injury totals is that he blocks a ton of shots (top five in the league for 3 out of the 5 years since the lockout).
Fisher was also playing on a line with pluggers most of the time (Nick Foligno, Dean McAmmond, Randy Robitaille, etc.) though he did see some time with Daniel Alfredsson. It’s not exactly like lining up with Alex Semin on the opposite wing.
Plus, he’s married to Carrie Underwood. Okay, so maybe that won’t help him get more money.
I don’t have much tolerance for stupid. Or cheese on food that doesn’t need it. -duck
by twistedlogic on Nov 11, 2010 11:31 AM EST up reply actions
No, but Laich scores more goals and can stay healthy, and I think you’re giving NHL GMs too much credit.
I’m willing to bet that there are at least a couple GMs out there who look at Laich’s boxscores and see a guy who could be a solid #2C, or #1/2W on a team with less talent. Not saying I agree, but then, I don’t agree with someone who drafts McIlrath ahead of Fowler or signs Boogard to a 4yr, $6.5m contract, either.
Honestly, I think the most likely thing is that he ends up getting money somewhere in the Ryane Clowe/Patrick Sharp area, but if just one GM out there sees him as a #2C, he could get more.
My personal guess is that if he stays with the Caps, he gets something like 4 years at $3.5m per.
And I hear you talk the talk, but I don't see you walk the walk and I still don't believe a thing you say.
I would be ok with 4@3.5 here. I know it may not be the scroungiest move, but especially with GMGM “rewarding the loyal soldiers”, you have to figure Laich is the leader of that band and I hope he would take that deal to stay.
"Inglewood Jack! Inglewood Jack!" - Coach Jules
by Alz Well That Ends Well on Nov 11, 2010 11:54 AM EST up reply actions
I’d do 4 at 3.5 in a heartbeat. Cap’s going to go up, and Brooks is pretty young — that deal would probably look pretty good by the end
Atta dinnin stick a who!
by Gould Old Days on Nov 11, 2010 4:39 PM EST up reply actions
Not buying. You don’t win championships by paying guys their market value on the UFA market, you win by finding bargains. Target a UFA or a trade guy that didn’t get cherry minutes on the PP and didn’t have Semin on his wing. I bet he puts up similar numbers if he’s remotely skilled. Spend the extra money elsewhere.
Brooks Laich is a decent enough player, but he benefits greatly from his circumstance and he’s going to get paid because of it. I’m choking on anything more than 3 a year and in KHtaD-fantasy-land, I’d rather not see him go above 2.75.
"Essentially, all models are wrong, but some are useful" George E.P. Box
by Knee high to a duck on Nov 11, 2010 4:43 PM EST up reply actions 1 recs
Obvious caveat being Chicago overpaying for Campbell, but they were in position to do that because of the deals guys like Ladd, Sharp, and Keith had. Brooks Laich isn’t on Brian Campbell’s level.
"Essentially, all models are wrong, but some are useful" George E.P. Box
by Knee high to a duck on Nov 11, 2010 4:47 PM EST up reply actions
And Kane and Toews were still on ELCs.
Lockout talk makes me want to go out and choke an old lady - Elliotte Friedman
I was trying to go for negotiated contracts specifically, but yeah. I still can’t believe that Keith was playing for 1.5mm.
"Essentially, all models are wrong, but some are useful" George E.P. Box
by Knee high to a duck on Nov 11, 2010 4:50 PM EST up reply actions
I’m just saying there are more ways to find value and save on the cap. You don’t need to go find a guy that is undervalued on the FA market; you can pay your own guys and compensate by having young ELC/RFA bargain talent.
Lockout talk makes me want to go out and choke an old lady - Elliotte Friedman
I never bashed Laich. I hope he sticks around here for a long time. I just think he is worth 2.2-2.5 million a year. This is mostly due to the fact that the leagues economics are way out of whack. Under the current skewed system he will get more, but in a rational world, he’ll get 2.2-2.5. The guys you listed are, in general, overpaid because of the leagues silly free-agent economics.
$4 million is far beyond what Laich is likely to get, but I think it is safe to say he will get more than $3 million. Why?
- He will be just turned 28 when he signs his next deal (if he goes to free agency), just entering what will be his prime.
- He has improved his goal scoring in each of his five full season in the league, and he is on a pace to set another career mark this year.
- His power play goal scoring improved in each of his five full seasons (although he’d have to push to set another career mark this year)
- Not only can he play any forward position, he can do it on any line (even the top line in an emergency, although that is not a long-term solution). And, he can be an emergency defenseman. There is no other Capital who approaches his versatility. His position might as well just read, “hockey player.”
- He has been rather consistent in hits and blocked shots over the last three years (averaging about 90 hits a year and 45 or so blocked shots)
How do you replace him on the roster? Chances are, given his versatility and production, you’re not going to do it with just one player. That had better figure into your calculus.
No player is indispensable, and any player can price himself out of a market, whether it’s a star asking for $10 million a year to whiff on shootout chances or a $500K a year player who all of a sudden thinks he’s worth three times that. But Laich is a valuable “secondary” commodity that is likely to be a bargain, even at prices that might seem at first glance to be on the high side.
If you've read this far...seek help.
by ThePeerless on Nov 11, 2010 12:43 PM EST up reply actions 5 recs
If Laich is really this valuable, I hope we move him at the deadline for some quality help on defense.
You had me at no problem.
But that’s the point. You can trade him for a defenseman, but then you’ll open other holes on the forward lines that might not be filled by just one guy.
I don’t have much tolerance for stupid. Or cheese on food that doesn’t need it. -duck
by twistedlogic on Nov 11, 2010 1:20 PM EST up reply actions
Question is whether the Caps would be better off spending $3.5 million on Laich or replacing his spot on the roster with a guy like Andrew Gordon, Jay Beagle, MP, or a cheap FA and spending the remaining $2.5-$3 million on a D, for example.
by red army line on Nov 11, 2010 1:24 PM EST up reply actions
Ah okay. For me, it’d have to be a FA. I haven’t seen much from the Beagle, MP, or Gordon that would make me think they could step into Laich’s spot. I’m a little biased because I irrationally like Laich (always weird to say “like Laich”), but I think he is somewhat more valuable than he gets credit for.
I don’t have much tolerance for stupid. Or cheese on food that doesn’t need it. -duck
by twistedlogic on Nov 11, 2010 1:30 PM EST up reply actions
Last season he looked pretty unimpressive to me statistically. He had the boxcar stats but was mainly a Corsi passenger (to be fair, so was Knuble, but Knuble had two solid Corsi linemates to Laich’s). This season so far Laich has been a great Corsi player. I really don’t know what to expect.
Crossing my fingers GMGM gets a veteran FA replacement for Knuble and bumps up Fehr to the 2nd line, keeping Semin.
by red army line on Nov 11, 2010 1:39 PM EST up reply actions
This is where we disagree. I think you could slot in any guy with the skills to play a grinding-but-top-6 role, and get about the same production.
Patron saint of quality footwear.
Like… who? Plus, that only works if you keep Alex Semin around. Letting go of both Semin and Laich results in no second line, which is a worse problem than no second-line center.
Ference, Wheeler, Burrows, Brunette, Setoguchi, to name a few?
Your 2R is Eric Fehr. Your 2C is either MJ90 or a FA acquisition (with the dollars you saved on Semin and Laich.)
Patron saint of quality footwear.
None of the guys you named except Burrows and Brunette were UFA or pending UFA when they signed their current deals (though I’m not sure who you mean by Ference, as the only Ference in the NHL is a D-man). Burrows was coming off of a 28 goal, 51 point season, but then again that season was also something of an abberation since he’d scored all of 23 goals and 52 points and his previous 206 NHL games. Brunette was a UFA, but he was also 35. Laich is 10 years younger and still has a number of good years ahead of him.
If Andrew Gordon were two inches taller and a left-handed shot, I’d think he could replace Laich. But he’s not, and I worry a bit about his size in holding up in the NHL, and about how well he’ll be able to play against bigger players..
Fact is, I just don’t think that “grinding-but-top-six” wingers come that cheap in the UFA market. They get paid like Chris Kunitz (3.75 mil cap hit). They get paid like Tuomo Ruutu (3.8 mil cap hit). They get paid like R.J. Umberger (3.75 mil cap hit).
by Wheeler on Nov 11, 2010 3:55 PM EST up reply actions 1 recs
Frankly, I’d much rather have Chris Kunitz than Brooks Laich. He’s one of the very best forecheckers in the league and a much better possession forward than he’s given credit for in some places. He makes life miserable for the other team in a way that Brooks Laich most emphatically does not and when the chips are down, he shows up.
"Essentially, all models are wrong, but some are useful" George E.P. Box
by Knee high to a duck on Nov 11, 2010 3:59 PM EST up reply actions
There are few players I loathe more than Chris Kunitz.
If anyone needs me, I'll be at Kettler.
by Becca H on Nov 11, 2010 4:11 PM EST up reply actions 1 recs
Right. He’s a ten pounds of shit stuffed into a five-pound bag, but that’s something the Caps could really use more of in the lineup. He’s also a monster on the cycle and he forechecks like a demon.
"Essentially, all models are wrong, but some are useful" George E.P. Box
by Knee high to a duck on Nov 11, 2010 4:13 PM EST up reply actions
Begrudgingly yes. I hate his face and I wouldn’t mind seeing him on the receiving end of a Colby Armstrong special, but he brings that asshole element that the Caps sorely lack.
Lockout talk makes me want to go out and choke an old lady - Elliotte Friedman
I suppose. I feel like there are other assholes I’d rather have over him any day, but that’s probably more a personal thing – there are just some guys for whom extreme hatred trumps whether he’d improve the team.
Also fwiw I don’t know that we’re lacking that. Hendricks is starting to become a less douche-y version of that, and a lot of the guys you wouldn’t expect to have snarl have shown they have it (e.g. Backstrom).
If anyone needs me, I'll be at Kettler.
Disagree. Hendricks is nice and he’ll do dirty work, but I don’t see anyone on this team that opponents just don’t want to go into the corner with.
Lockout talk makes me want to go out and choke an old lady - Elliotte Friedman
I don’t know, if they go into a corner with Laich they run the risk of looking even uglier by comparison…yeah, I got nothing.
I guess I’m just trying to think of who, off the top of my head, is that guy for the rest of the teams in the League. Not that they don’t exist, just that I can’t think of many besides Kunitz…maybe Avery…Carcillo? I don’t know. Who is that guy on the Hawks, for example? What about the Wings?
If anyone needs me, I'll be at Kettler.
It doesn’t have to be a dirty guy, but lots of them are dirty. How about Pronger?
I think Eager, Burrish, Brouwer, and to an extent Seabrook are all a pain in the ass to play against on Chicago.
Cleary, Draper, Kronwall on DET.
Lockout talk makes me want to go out and choke an old lady - Elliotte Friedman
Eager and Burish are in Dallas and Atlanta, respectively.
by Chris Burton on Nov 11, 2010 4:39 PM EST up reply actions
I was referring to the team that won the Cup. I also have a thing for Ladd, I think he’s a huge pain to play against. So was Buff.
Lockout talk makes me want to go out and choke an old lady - Elliotte Friedman
ok
and I got it backwards. Burish is in Dallas, Eager Atlanta.
by Chris Burton on Nov 11, 2010 4:42 PM EST up reply actions
I think you’re looking at what he said wrong. There’s a lot of guys no one wants to mess with on the boards who aren’t Kunitz-types. Jonathan Toews, for example, is a monster in the corner. There are guys making peanuts who are scarier in the corners than Brooks Laich, like Jerred Smithson or Cal Clutterbuck.
by Chris Burton on Nov 11, 2010 4:39 PM EST up reply actions
He said asshole-types – that’s a Kunitz-type. Toews is good in the corner and along the boards because he’s an elite center and that’s what they do (which is why I threw Nicky out there, he’s gotten better at that every year).
If anyone needs me, I'll be at Kettler.
Yup, asshole type is right. Elite players are always going to be tough because they are so good. I see a lot of Caps role players that can take a beating, but not many that give them. Chimera has been showing that, and I’d love for him to keep that up. Seeing him go after MDZ was awesome.
Lockout talk makes me want to go out and choke an old lady - Elliotte Friedman
Chimera definitely has that ability – and I think we’re seeing it more and more as he gets comfortable here. A few other guys have it in spurts but I know what you mean, we are probably lacking in that area…not sure it’s a necessity though. Still trying to decide.
If anyone needs me, I'll be at Kettler.
For the sake of accuracy, Burrows is coming off of a 35-32-67 season that was preceded by a 28-23-51. He was 22-30-52 in the previous 206 games.
The guy is Peter Schumpmaker. Lord knows what a schump is, but you can bet your bippy his ancestors made them. What he's doing is far worse than crafting fine schumps.
by Steckel Me Elmo on Nov 11, 2010 4:02 PM EST up reply actions
Burrows wasn’t coming off a 67 pt season when he signed his extension though. But that deal is an absolute steal, I have no idea how VAN did that.
Release the Mackan!
by Killer_Carlson on Nov 11, 2010 4:07 PM EST up reply actions
There are plenty of guys out there that can do what Laich does, just as well, for at or under his $2.2M cap number.
Consistently? I don’t think so. Not unless they’re on an ELC or they’re on their first RFA contract, and those are exactly the kind of guys that other teams almost never trade.
The question isn’t “is Laich worth $2.2M,” it’s “is Laich worth $4M.”
And I hear you talk the talk, but I don't see you walk the walk and I still don't believe a thing you say.
Not unless they’re on an ELC or they’re on their first RFA contract,
That’s the key. That’s the only reason why Laich has the contract he currently does – if he had signed it as a UFA, he’d be making significantly more. The Caps aren’t going to be able to go out and get a guy like that without trading big value.
Its like comparing apples and oranges. If i was GMGM i would have to decide between Laich and Knuble ( or somebody who is much younger and has a comparable set of skills ) and between Semin and Fleischmann in his prime, which he clearly didnt reach yet.
But in the end it all comes to- money. That is where i agree with you.
With Semin, if Mackan looks to be a real deal 2C by the end of the season, or Kuznetsov looks like he could be ready real quick, then maybe we can put money toward him on the wing. But if we have to pay market value for a C then it’ll be very hard to keep Semin.
Lockout talk makes me want to go out and choke an old lady - Elliotte Friedman
TJ Oshie
Broken ankle. Out indefinitely.
Major bummer. Love the way that guy plays the game.
Patron saint of quality footwear.
More like T.J. Oshit for the Blues, amirite?
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
by J.P. on Nov 11, 2010 8:03 AM EST up reply actions 5 recs
I’ve never edited a comment in the entire history of this blog. Deleted? Sure. But never edited.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
Yeah, but you alter ego, J.P.ucksandbooks, edits comments all the time.
"Do not be afraid to ask for credit, for our way of refusing is very polite."
by Laich It Or Lump It on Nov 11, 2010 8:25 AM EST up reply actions 2 recs
Speaking of editing comments, I wish I could fix that typo I made above.
"Do not be afraid to ask for credit, for our way of refusing is very polite."
by Laich It Or Lump It on Nov 11, 2010 8:33 AM EST up reply actions
You can swear, but you can’t use slurs. Just the way it is, man.
Patron saint of quality footwear.
by fat_daddyo on Nov 11, 2010 8:15 AM EST up reply actions 8 recs
The city here is a bit stunned this morning, judging from the paper and the radio.
Oshie – out indefinitely. More today.
Polak – out indefinitely
Colliacovo and Perron – concussions, no clue
Jackman – perhaps another week.
They’ve played with 7 D the last two games.
We get them on December 1, perhaps at the right time.
Life With Spidey -- a blog about sports, travel, work, family and fun.
Representing Caps fandom in the Gateway to the West.
Catching them like a cold!
/maniacal laughter
by DrinkingPartner on Nov 11, 2010 9:23 AM EST up reply actions
When you’ve lost 5 in a row, you’ll take whatever you can get.
Life With Spidey -- a blog about sports, travel, work, family and fun.
Representing Caps fandom in the Gateway to the West.
Funny you should say that. Pete Weber was on HTM this morning and he said that he didn’t want to play an angry team, and he was sure the Blues are angry after last night.
Life With Spidey -- a blog about sports, travel, work, family and fun.
Representing Caps fandom in the Gateway to the West.
And I’m glad I traded Oshie before the injury. With Parise, Okposo, Krejci and Downie already injured I can’t afford any more invalids on the roster.
Release the Mackan!
by Killer_Carlson on Nov 11, 2010 11:32 AM EST up reply actions
Only Poti and Varlamov.
Release the Mackan!
by Killer_Carlson on Nov 11, 2010 11:39 AM EST up reply actions
It’s your fault?
Six Beers Too Many fantasy team: It's Neu-virth Than Usual
"I wake up in the middle night frustrated because we lost out in the first round and I want to see our players hoist the Stanley Cup." -Brooks Laich
by CapitalCentre on Nov 11, 2010 11:47 AM EST up reply actions
Like I’d ever have Poti on my fantasy team.
Release the Mackan!
by Killer_Carlson on Nov 11, 2010 12:03 PM EST up reply actions 2 recs
Yeah, I know.
Six Beers Too Many fantasy team: It's Neu-virth Than Usual
"I wake up in the middle night frustrated because we lost out in the first round and I want to see our players hoist the Stanley Cup." -Brooks Laich
by CapitalCentre on Nov 11, 2010 12:17 PM EST up reply actions
I liked the trade on my end a lot until last night. Oh well, no way to know. Plus Gaborik is back tonight and I got him for only Danny Briere.
by Chris Burton on Nov 11, 2010 11:35 AM EST up reply actions
Oshie’s young enough that even with this injury he still has a ton of value in a keeper league. It’s not like the trade has turned into a total rip off, but on my end I have so many injuries already that I can’t afford another injured player in the short term.
Release the Mackan!
by Killer_Carlson on Nov 11, 2010 11:39 AM EST up reply actions
Yep, and I’d make the deal again, despite MC’s gaudy +/-.
by Chris Burton on Nov 11, 2010 11:41 AM EST up reply actions
i have to admit, it went through my mind this morning. “wait, does K_C still have oshie on his roster??” you’re right, though, it would have been beyond cruel from the fantasy hockey gods given your current injury situation.
by Natty Bumppo on Nov 11, 2010 4:45 PM EST up reply actions
It’s bad enough I have to play a team named “Markov Models” during a week I’ve spent working on a giant pain in the ass MCMC model.
Release the Mackan!
by Killer_Carlson on Nov 11, 2010 4:58 PM EST up reply actions
nice! i figured you’d be one of the only GMs to appreciate, even if only in a perverse way.
by Natty Bumppo on Nov 11, 2010 5:20 PM EST up reply actions
(and at least you get to look at my habs model girl every time you go to the scoresheet.)
by Natty Bumppo on Nov 11, 2010 5:33 PM EST up reply actions
Small consolation for the ass-kicking I’m receiving this week.
Release the Mackan!
by Killer_Carlson on Nov 11, 2010 6:03 PM EST up reply actions
don’t look now. (i saw the final score of the flyers game and i knew it was bad bad news.)
by Natty Bumppo on Nov 11, 2010 10:37 PM EST up reply actions
Random stats so far this season , calculated from hockey reference.
- If you take all saves/ all shots taken this season, the current average SV% for a goalie in the NHL this season is exactly 0.912318123.
- Average goals per game (per team): 2.793721973
- Average PP opportunities per game (per team): 4.078475336
- I’d like to calc PP% but I’m not sure what the true formula is. I dont know how abbreviated PP opportunies are weighted. I assume it’s similar to goals against average where they take into account the extra seconds that he doesn’t play\
- SHORT HANDED goals per game: 0.096412556. So teams are scoring a short handed goal in 1 out of every 10 games.
New All Star game format…may be fun to watch …could pit teammate against teammate.
For some reason I’m not quite sutre of yet, I like this.
"Quint?"........"No."
If only there were a collection of links that contained a reference to this exact subject.
"Do not be afraid to ask for credit, for our way of refusing is very polite."
by Laich It Or Lump It on Nov 11, 2010 8:30 AM EST up reply actions 10 recs
Was an honest question. I didn’t see any links on nhl.com or japersrink about it. Then I googled it.
I figured news that interesting would show up on one of those two sights quickly
Yesterday’s big League-wide news was the revamped All-Star Game format. Yawn. [Puck Daddy]
If anyone needs me, I'll be at Kettler.
I still don’t see it. What new format are you talking about? That article’s about some fantasy hockey league for the players.
Atta dinnin stick a who!
by Gould Old Days on Nov 11, 2010 8:39 AM EST up reply actions
Didn’t see it anywhere yesterday either. And I don’t visit a million hockey related sites per day.
NeEeeEERDS!
Well, it was all over NHL.com and Puck Daddy yesterday, two of the main hockey-related sites (and it was on the Caps’ site, too)…but that link was pulled right from the lovely Clips section provided by JP this very morning.
Just trying to help you out, my friend :)
If anyone needs me, I'll be at Kettler.
Donnie, you’re out of your element.
by Wheeler on Nov 11, 2010 9:08 AM EST via mobile up reply actions 2 recs
I am the walrus.
We're Hüsker Dü and we're on MTV. Who are you, and what are you on?
by bilspacecadet on Nov 11, 2010 12:01 PM EST up reply actions
I’m stupidly excited about this new ASG format. It’s already one of my favorite parts of the season, and one of the things I like best about it is seeing the guys having fun and joking around with one another – you have to think there’s the potential for plenty of ribbing and chirping during the picking of the teams.
I almost want Ovie to get picked last just for the fun of it – he wouldn’t be embarrassed by it (everyone knows he’s one of the best) and could be highly entertaining.
I just like that they’re trying to mix it up a bit, make it different than any other League and have fun with it. It’s basically an exhibition game anyway, why not play up the game part of it? It should be fun!
If anyone needs me, I'll be at Kettler.
I could actually see Ovechkin engineering Malkin being taken last. If he’s a captain, it only takes one other player (the other captain) to make that happen.
Atta dinnin stick a who!
by Gould Old Days on Nov 11, 2010 8:40 AM EST up reply actions
My sister and I were talking about it this morning and saying it would be funny if the captains got together to leave Sid and Ovie for the end (provided they’re not the captains, of course). Might solve this whole “ohhh, what if the last pick is embarrassed blah blah blah” thing because…come on. Everyone knows those two are the best in the NHL.
If anyone needs me, I'll be at Kettler.
I think the hockey world that isn’t in DC or Pittsburgh would prefer they not be the captains. And frankly, I would be fine with that. They and their teams are getting so much attention over the Winter Classic. Give someone else some spotlight. They’re going to steal it during the actualy exhibition, anyway.
"It's always good to have vikings."
I think Jonathan Toews deserves to be one of the captains.
by Chris Burton on Nov 11, 2010 9:04 AM EST up reply actions
What, no love for Richards? Should be the Captains of last year’s SCFs.
BB said yesterday what I fear should Ovi be picked as a Captain – he’d go all Russian.
The Fantasy aspect is the coolest thing about this. Who gets picked first?
"I would feed them lefts until I was pretty much tired of doing it." - Alan May, JRR, 10.16.2010
I like that “should be” doesn’t enter into this – it’ll be the players’ vote, so there’s probably not going to be any rhyme or reason to it. It probably won’t be the Cup champ vs. the home team, the best in the East vs. the best in the West, captain of the last 2 Cup winners, Sid vs. Ovie, captains of last year’s finalists, etc. It’ll just be who the players decide they want as captains – if it shakes out that way, fine, but I’d bet money on it being much more random (and going to some of the more established vets).
If anyone needs me, I'll be at Kettler.
I don’t believe anything about the ASG should be based on last year’s winners at all, but rather on how everyone is playing this season.
Six Beers Too Many fantasy team: It's Neu-virth Than Usual
"I wake up in the middle night frustrated because we lost out in the first round and I want to see our players hoist the Stanley Cup." -Brooks Laich
by CapitalCentre on Nov 11, 2010 10:52 AM EST up reply actions
Oh, I think even fans in Pittsburgh and Washington are (mostly) against that idea. And I don’t think it’s something we’ll have to deal with since it’s up to the players – honestly, can you see a guy like Lidstrom not being a captain if he’s picked for the ASG? I’d bet both captains are of the wily old veteran class.
If anyone needs me, I'll be at Kettler.
That’d be fine, too. Lidstrom and Alfredsson, maybe? Not sure if Alfie even makes the game, though.
by Chris Burton on Nov 11, 2010 9:10 AM EST up reply actions
Alfie’s probably not making it. I could see Lidstrom and Selanne, maybe, Teemu’s got a better shot than Alfie.
If anyone needs me, I'll be at Kettler.
“They” may not necessarily want two from the same conference, though. Mike Richards! :p
by Chris Burton on Nov 11, 2010 9:15 AM EST up reply actions
actually
I think the best idea I’ve heard is just designate the reigning Cup champs’ captain and the ASG host’s captain. So Staal and Toews.
by Chris Burton on Nov 11, 2010 9:19 AM EST up reply actions
That’s a great idea, actually, though I don’t especially enjoy Staal being captain.
by DrinkingPartner on Nov 11, 2010 9:22 AM EST up reply actions
I could get behind this idea. I dread this turning into an Ovechkin/Crosby event.
"Now wait a minute. This is just purely a social call. You know, just two adults getting a stew on, man."
by The Ghost of Bebop on Nov 11, 2010 9:24 AM EST up reply actions
I support the idea but unfortunately this year’s guys for that are two of the most boring options available.
by Chris Burton on Nov 11, 2010 9:29 AM EST up reply actions
…vomit.
In all honesty, I really hope the League just lets whoever the players vote for go through – and the fact is that if they’re not doing East vs. West, it shouldn’t matter whether the captains are from the same conference. Hell, let them be from the same team. Ovie and Semin!!1
If anyone needs me, I'll be at Kettler.
“I pick Backstrom.”
“Which one?”
“Both”
I also want to see players switch sides if the game gets too out-of-hand. Mid-game trades!
This sig is brought to you by... Frungy, The Sport of Kings!
Heh. I bet Ovie and Green are the only caps picked to play in the all star game.
Not that Backstrom or Semin don’t deserve it, but with a team this loaded, you can only pick so many. Montreal had WAY more people in the game 2 years ago that deserved to be but that’s just the fans in Montreal have nothing better to do but vote 5 billion times.
You know, I could see all four of them making it – they’re trying to get one rep from every team but that includes the 12 rookies, that definitely frees up spots for more Caps. Honestly if all four don’t make it I’d understand because it IS a lot from one team, but I think all four are deserving and there is a chance they do let them all in.
And they weren’t voting 5 billion times, they had some sort of internet script that did it for them.
If anyone needs me, I'll be at Kettler.
The crazy thing is that most of the players are selected by “NHL Hockey Operations”
Aim for the head baby Jesus
Odds Caps fan will put on the foil come selection time? 3/1.
"DON'T SAY THAT! Please! That is the worst, most stupid thing anyone could say! Cause it quite clearly isn't "only a game." I mean if it was do you honestly think I'd care this much?"
by Bald Pollack on Nov 11, 2010 1:31 PM EST up reply actions
do you mean the foil
under our gloves, or our hats?
There's no 'i' in "team". But there's a 'nap' in "champion".
Hopefully they are going to televise the selection process with all players in attendance. Love to see the reaction of the guys who get picked last.
Just trying to capture the spirit of the thing...
by dcsportsfan1 on Nov 11, 2010 8:52 AM EST up reply actions
Oh! Yes, they are – I’d missed this on initial read-through but if you check the Puck Daddy post JP links to it says:
On Friday, Jan. 28, a televised draft event will be held in Raleigh with team leadership selecting their rosters, with the order determined by a coin-toss.
If anyone needs me, I'll be at Kettler.
OK, now that I’ve read the post, I didn’t see anything about coaches. I’m assuming that last years finalists, Quenneville and Laviolette, will be the head coaches. So conceivably Quenville could be coaching against Toews and Laviolette against Richards. Interesting.
Just trying to capture the spirit of the thing...
by dcsportsfan1 on Nov 11, 2010 9:21 AM EST up reply actions
Do the captains draft their coach? That’d be sweet
Atta dinnin stick a who!
by Gould Old Days on Nov 11, 2010 9:24 AM EST up reply actions
Nope, coaches will be the same as they’ve been the past few years – top team in the East vs. top team in the West. Laviolette vs. Richards could happen…….I’m gonna guess that Quenneville vs. Toews, not so much ;)
If anyone needs me, I'll be at Kettler.
Huh, I thought it was last two cup finalist. Either way, would be interesting even though there is pretty much no coaching during the All Star game. Mostly likely even less this year since they won’t know their teams until the night before the game.
Just trying to capture the spirit of the thing...
by dcsportsfan1 on Nov 11, 2010 9:51 AM EST up reply actions
If it means that someone mouths off to Coach Fredericks, I’m all for it.
"DON'T SAY THAT! Please! That is the worst, most stupid thing anyone could say! Cause it quite clearly isn't "only a game." I mean if it was do you honestly think I'd care this much?"
by Bald Pollack on Nov 11, 2010 9:00 AM EST up reply actions
I’d like to see them do away with the requirement that one player from each team be on the roster. Perhaps you give the home team two players minimum.
To make this real, I think it should be a true pick-em. Players vote to pick the captains, and then they pick. Fan involvement in the players isn’t needed. We need the best players out there, not a representative group.
How about no coaches either? Make it a true pick-up game, with players hanging over the boards, random shifts, etc.
Life With Spidey -- a blog about sports, travel, work, family and fun.
Representing Caps fandom in the Gateway to the West.
The good thing is that fan involvement is minimal, to say the least. We pick the top 6 from a field of 100- 3 forwards, 2 D and a goalie – and only 6 guys, not 12 like past years, and that’s it. Those guys are named “first team all-stars” or something but they’re not even guaranteed to be starters in the game.
The League picks the rest, including the 12 rookies, and the captains pick the teams, the events each player will participate in during the skills comp, and the 6 rookies they want on their side.
If anyone needs me, I'll be at Kettler.
If only they would do away with the minimum per team requirement.
If more than two players from one team deserve to be on the squad, then so be it. Why wouldn’t Ovie, Backs, Semin and Green all make the team? Or Lecavalier, St. Louis, Stamkos?
Life With Spidey -- a blog about sports, travel, work, family and fun.
Representing Caps fandom in the Gateway to the West.
I’m super excited for the Fantasy Draft thing this year. One thing I’m hoping for: the captains should get to name their teams and design the team uniforms! I want to buy an Ovie jersey that’s just a giant Ovie face for the logo.
A Capital Wasteland - art & hockey from Washington, D.C.
by Jake Shapiro on Nov 11, 2010 9:42 AM EST up reply actions 1 recs
I think they should go to a “Wheel of Fortune” format to pick players. if a Captain solves the puzzle, he gets to pick. If he keeps solving the puzzles, he keeps picking.
I’d get a perverse joy out of seeing a team with a Crosby/Ovechkin/Stamkos/Green/Lidstrom power play up against, say, Shane O’Brien and Deryk Engelland on defense.
If you've read this far...seek help.
by ThePeerless on Nov 11, 2010 12:49 PM EST up reply actions
I’ve got a good feeling about this suggestion.
by grapejoos on Nov 11, 2010 1:12 PM EST up reply actions 1 recs
They should do an auction draft. I would seriously shell out a couple of bucks to view that.
"Essentially, all models are wrong, but some are useful" George E.P. Box
by Knee high to a duck on Nov 11, 2010 3:30 PM EST up reply actions
Also, who’s going to be the “home” team? If two Canes are picked for the game then conceivably they could end up on opposite sides….
Just trying to capture the spirit of the thing...
by dcsportsfan1 on Nov 11, 2010 9:55 AM EST up reply actions
No Mr. Irrelevant
Actually, if this hasn’t already been mentioned, the Puck Daddy article says that they don’t want players to feel embarrassed or something so there won’t actually be a player who gets picked last.
Finally, There’s No Utter Embarrassment For Being Picked Last?
It’s a tradition for any game that “chooses sides”: Someone has to be picked last.
“It’s something that was on our mind right away,” said Shanahan. “Ironically, it’s the players that we’ve spoken to that are the least sensitive about that. They almost revel in the potential squirming situations.”
Alas, there may not be any nervous shuffling of feet and humiliated shrugs at the end of the All-Star Draft.
“With the NHLPA we’re working on some scenarios to soften that a little bit, not have one last guy standing. We are working on some things like multiple selections at the end, and speeding it up,” said Shanahan.
Sorry, Mr. Irrelevant.
If anyone caught Brooks on NHL Live yesterday (I listened last night) he talks about that and that’s actually the first thing he said, “what if you were picked last??” But then he pointed out that you were still at the All Star Game so it probably wouldn’t be that big a deal. And he was laughing when he said it so…yeah. I think most guys won’t be bothered by it, I’m assuming they’re pretty secure in their ability to play :P
If anyone needs me, I'll be at Kettler.
On Hockey This Morning, they were reporting that Crosby said last night he did not want to be picked last. Rossi and company thought that was pretty poor of Sidney to be whining about possibly being picked last. Although perhaps it is a real worry for Sidney as other top players often mention they would love to play with Ovi!
by Ray of Sunshine on Nov 11, 2010 10:19 AM EST up reply actions
Then it all comes back to do you choose based on who you like or on wanting to win?
No one wants to be picked last, and I’d be willing to believe that was a made-up report.
"It's always good to have vikings."
I go back to Brooks, he was really funny talking about it – he was like, I’m not even sure how I’d go! Do you pick guys you want to play with or do you go for sheer talent? Do you start with a goalie? Do you take your friends? It was very…“fan plotting his fantasy team strategy” to me, adorable.
And the only way Sid’s getting picked last is if both captains decide it’d be funny to screw with him AND Ovie and pick everyone else first. In which case it’s a joke and I’d hope he’d be able to take it…I’m fairly sure he would be.
If anyone needs me, I'll be at Kettler.
They spoke of it as if it was a quote from Crosby, perhaps post-game?
by Ray of Sunshine on Nov 11, 2010 11:18 AM EST up reply actions
Crosby said last night he did not want to be picked last.
Love to win, or hate to lose?
And I hear you talk the talk, but I don't see you walk the walk and I still don't believe a thing you say.
by D'ohboy on Nov 11, 2010 10:46 AM EST up reply actions 3 recs
None of these guys were ever picked last so they don’t understand how traumatizing it can be.
by wickedwitch on Nov 11, 2010 10:18 AM EST up reply actions
Even the best-in-the-world-making-millions hockey players revert back to middle school and the worries of “please pick me, pick me!”
by Ray of Sunshine on Nov 11, 2010 11:15 AM EST up reply actions
KONO
Happy Birthday to one of my all time favourite Caps, Steve Konowalchuk (man is it only 38?—wow)
As much as I enjoy guys like Brooks and Brads on today’s Caps, they don’t compare to one of my all-time favourite Caps, Steve Konowalchuk. The guy was the perfect combination of hockey head and hockey heart . All grit and smarts.
I have mentioned it before but the Konowalchuk-Halpern-Dahlen line is one of my all time Caps favourites. I wish there were youtube clipsof these three playing keepaway when shorthanded—truly a thing of beauty. The guy was a mucker and digger. Never a big offensive threat- he scored on average between 30-45 points a year and never scored more than 24 goals in a season. But seemed to be able to change the momentum of the game with a timely hit or energetic shift.
He captained the Caps from 2001-2003, co-captain in 2001-2002 with Brendan Witt. His trade to the Avs was the start of the rebuilding process here in DC. Unfortunately Kono had to retire at 34 after being diagnosed a rare heart disorder called QT Syndrome. He is currently ass’t coach for the Avalanche under Joe Sacco.
I poured spot remover on my dog. Now he's gone.
by Rather Bengt on Nov 11, 2010 9:48 AM EST reply actions 7 recs
Agreed, loved Kono when he was here. That Kono-Halpern-Dahlen line was probably the best checking line in the franchise’s history.
"Now wait a minute. This is just purely a social call. You know, just two adults getting a stew on, man."
by The Ghost of Bebop on Nov 11, 2010 9:52 AM EST up reply actions
Kono-Halpern-Dahlen followed by Kono-Halpern-Grier…. great stuff.
Washington Capitals 2009-10 = Quebec Nordiques 1994-95
--- D'ohboy
by MikeL-Pivonka on Nov 11, 2010 10:32 AM EST up reply actions
Good on Halpy and Grier for being able to maintian their careers still today. Halpy was doing alright for the Habs this year and last I saw Grier and Rob Niedemayer were mentoring rookie Tyler Ennis on a line for the Sabres. I am sure if not for the heart issues, Kono would still be playing a role for a team in the league also.
I poured spot remover on my dog. Now he's gone.
by Rather Bengt on Nov 11, 2010 10:41 AM EST up reply actions
Kono was among my favorite Caps as well. Hated seeing him traded.
I don’t have much tolerance for stupid. Or cheese on food that doesn’t need it. -duck
by twistedlogic on Nov 11, 2010 9:52 AM EST up reply actions
Remember when Bates Battaglia was being touted as “A younger, faster Kono?”
"Now wait a minute. This is just purely a social call. You know, just two adults getting a stew on, man."
by The Ghost of Bebop on Nov 11, 2010 9:53 AM EST up reply actions
Hey, we got Jonas Johansson in that deal too.
Just trying to capture the spirit of the thing...
by dcsportsfan1 on Nov 11, 2010 9:57 AM EST up reply actions
But he was a first round pick….
Just trying to capture the spirit of the thing...
by dcsportsfan1 on Nov 11, 2010 9:59 AM EST up reply actions
So was Anton Gustafsson
I don’t have much tolerance for stupid. Or cheese on food that doesn’t need it. -duck
by twistedlogic on Nov 11, 2010 10:00 AM EST up reply actions
The worst thing I remember about it was that someone in the Caps org. was like “Oh my God, we have a chance to get JONAS JOHANSSON. Stop at nothing.”
by DrinkingPartner on Nov 11, 2010 10:09 AM EST up reply actions
Kono and a third round pick for those guys. What a bargain.
I don’t have much tolerance for stupid. Or cheese on food that doesn’t need it. -duck
by twistedlogic on Nov 11, 2010 10:15 AM EST up reply actions
To be fair, Konowalchuk was in a contract year (after being traded to Colorado he signed a three-year/$7.5 million deal), and he wasn’t likely to re-sign with Washington. As I remember it, there was the story that he wanted to move west. The Caps accommodated him, getting a similar player back in Battaglia for what at the time was a $600K saving (more, given the deal Konowalchuk signed). Was it the best trade in McPhee’s tenure? Nope. In fact, once upon a time I gave this trade an F
But in the larger scheme of things, the Caps gave up a player not in their future plans and got back players who ended up not being in their future plans. It was a wash and pretty much an inconsequential deal.
If you've read this far...seek help.
by ThePeerless on Nov 11, 2010 10:26 AM EST up reply actions
It ended up being inconsequential due to Kono’s early retirement and the lack of impact of Battaglia and Johansson. But it SHOULD have had more impact for us.
We traded a quality player for a spare part and a prospect. Clealy Kono wasn’t in our plans and a team like the Avs needed him more than we needed him. The spare part fills out a uniform for a year but the prospect should have been the key to this deal. GMGM must have been high on Johansson for him to have pulled the trigger on the deal in October vs waiting to see what teams would offer at the deadline.
So we end up getting zero ROA other than saving $600k in a pre-cap environment.
Just trying to capture the spirit of the thing...
by dcsportsfan1 on Nov 11, 2010 10:45 AM EST up reply actions
Bwahahahaha. No, I don’t remember that, but I roflcoptered around the office upon reading that. Hopefully we’ve changed talent scouts since then….
I don’t have much tolerance for stupid. Or cheese on food that doesn’t need it. -duck
by twistedlogic on Nov 11, 2010 9:55 AM EST up reply actions
the Konowalchuk-Halpern-Dahlen line is one of my all time Caps favourites
Can’t agree with this enough, what a phenomenal line that was – put that line in their prime on this team and we’ve got a Cup for sure (not that we don’t have a contending team as it is, but that line brought a lot of what it lacks at times).
If anyone needs me, I'll be at Kettler.
So sad how Kono had to leave the game, retiring due to a heart condition. :(
His trade was the beginning of the fire sale, and while the Caps got basically nothing for him, the Avs weren’t going to give up much for him either due to the cirucmstances of his being a UFA after the season. I think the main driving force was Kono himself in that he was pretty well fed up with Cassidy (who was the coach at the time) as Cassidy kept bringing a series of Grand Rapids Griffins to play for the Caps. Cassidy should have realized that there was a reason he coached these guys in the minors, that reason being that they were minor league hockey players. Kono knew there was a progression of moving players up from the minors and giving them a chance…instead coming to the Caps were Jason Doig, Joel Kwiatkowski, Brian Willsie, Ivan Ciernick, Kip Miller, etc.
Eventually the Caps unloaded everyone that season.
My biggest heartbreak for him was in 2002, when the Olympics were held in Salt Lake City. Kono ended up getting injured and wasn’t able to even try out to make Team USA when the Olympics were being held in his hometown….a shame in that.
Washington Capitals 2009-10 = Quebec Nordiques 1994-95
--- D'ohboy
by MikeL-Pivonka on Nov 11, 2010 10:39 AM EST up reply actions
Grrr. They scheduled Ovi’s DVD signing at the exact same time as Hockey n Heels. Not that I’d be able to get to Sterling at 6pm anyway…
You perhaps knew me better as "Your Nation's Capital." Same great commentary, now with 100% more transparency!
Per teh Twitterz, Neuvy starts tonight, and DJ and MJ90 are the scratches.
You perhaps knew me better as "Your Nation's Capital." Same great commentary, now with 100% more transparency!
Gotta wonder if it might have been better for Marcus to stay with Hershey and actually play.
by vtcapsfan99 on Nov 11, 2010 10:48 AM EST up reply actions
Hershey doesn’t play until the weekend. If he’s ready to go, probably better to be back here for practice. For now, anyway.
"It's always good to have vikings."
Good point. They can send him back done for the weekend if he’s not going to play for the caps. Personally I’d like to see him try playing at 2C again since Flash isn’t overwhelming there and he did a good job on his last try at 2C.
by vtcapsfan99 on Nov 11, 2010 10:52 AM EST up reply actions
WTF? So we send him down to Hershey to get game action, then call him up to be a healthy scratch?
And I hear you talk the talk, but I don't see you walk the walk and I still don't believe a thing you say.
I’m more dismayed at BB’s unswerving adherence to his policy of grinding Neuvy into as fine a dust as possible.
Patron saint of quality footwear.
I’m more dismayed at BB’s unswerving adherence to his policy of grinding Neuvy and Green into as fine a dust as possible.
"Now wait a minute. This is just purely a social call. You know, just two adults getting a stew on, man."
by The Ghost of Bebop on Nov 11, 2010 10:59 AM EST up reply actions
True story.
"Do you see my fist? It was fists like these that built quaint Canadian cities out of the harsh Canadian wilderness, etc. etc."
Not in Seattle anymore.
by SeattleCapsFan on Nov 11, 2010 10:59 AM EST up reply actions
I’m not concerned about either. I don’t even understand the comment about Green.
As far as Neuvy is concerned, I have memory problems, but I seem to recall that he didn’t play Wednesday, which means that he has had been off since Sunday evening, five full day by gametime.
Life With Spidey -- a blog about sports, travel, work, family and fun.
Representing Caps fandom in the Gateway to the West.
If by Wednesday, you mean Tuesday…
"Do you see my fist? It was fists like these that built quaint Canadian cities out of the harsh Canadian wilderness, etc. etc."
Not in Seattle anymore.
by SeattleCapsFan on Nov 11, 2010 11:02 AM EST up reply actions
(Tuesday. The game was Tuesday.)
You perhaps knew me better as "Your Nation's Capital." Same great commentary, now with 100% more transparency!
When did Holtby play? Sunday? If so, my bad. I thought he played against the Rangers.
Life With Spidey -- a blog about sports, travel, work, family and fun.
Representing Caps fandom in the Gateway to the West.
Yeah, Holtby Sunday. Too many martinis in Chicago on Tuesday? :)
"Because the game is not just about fighting no more. " D.J. King
Way too many.
Life With Spidey -- a blog about sports, travel, work, family and fun.
Representing Caps fandom in the Gateway to the West.
What do you mean? It’s long been an issue with BB that he has Green playing more minutes than are necessary for the regular season. There’s absolutely no reason for Green to be playing 30 minutes in a regular season game.
"Now wait a minute. This is just purely a social call. You know, just two adults getting a stew on, man."
by The Ghost of Bebop on Nov 11, 2010 11:02 AM EST up reply actions
I think the outrage over Green’s minutes is overblown. His ice time isn’t out of line with what guys like Lidstrom, Pronger, etc. have been getting over the years, and Green gets a bit more of it on the PP (i.e. easier minutes).
He’s 25. He’s “in the best shape of [his] life.” I don’t think dialing him back a couple of minutes in November is going to make or break his April. Then again, I could be wrong.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
I’d agree. Plus keep in mind we’re still missing a big-minute guy in Tom Poti, so until #3 gets back in the lineup we’re going to see 28-30 minute nights out of Green. I’m fine with it, as long as toward the end of the season – if possible – BB puts the brakes on a bit with guys like Green and Ovie.
If anyone needs me, I'll be at Kettler.
That looks to be tonight, per Carrera. BB says Poti is probable.
by Chris Burton on Nov 11, 2010 11:11 AM EST up reply actions
I never thought I’d be so happy to hear those words.
T-Slo is a powerful drug.
And I hear you talk the talk, but I don't see you walk the walk and I still don't believe a thing you say.
by D'ohboy on Nov 11, 2010 11:12 AM EST up reply actions 3 recs
Right up until Poti whiffs on a PK clear and dribbles the puck right to Stamkos…
Patron saint of quality footwear.
Nah, because people don’t jump on Poti’s mistakes the way they jump on Sloan’s.
Eat, drink, and be merry! And then drink some more.
Sure they do. It just seems they don’t because he doesn’t make as many mistakes per minute of ice time as Sloan does.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
by J.P. on Nov 11, 2010 11:23 AM EST up reply actions 3 recs
I also jump on Poti’s mistakes because my expectations of our “reliable veteran D” are much higher. I expect Sloan to fuck up, that’s why I don’t want him anywhere near the lineup.
And I hear you talk the talk, but I don't see you walk the walk and I still don't believe a thing you say.
by D'ohboy on Nov 11, 2010 11:36 AM EST up reply actions 1 recs
Hahaha, were you around for GDTs last year? FUCK YOU POTI and CLEAR THE PUCK POTI was a very common occurrence.
"Do you see my fist? It was fists like these that built quaint Canadian cities out of the harsh Canadian wilderness, etc. etc."
Not in Seattle anymore.
by SeattleCapsFan on Nov 11, 2010 11:23 AM EST up reply actions
Damnit. Sorry.
"Do you see my fist? It was fists like these that built quaint Canadian cities out of the harsh Canadian wilderness, etc. etc."
Not in Seattle anymore.
by SeattleCapsFan on Nov 11, 2010 12:51 PM EST up reply actions
Further to this, of the 4 30 minute games played so far, 3 went to OT (one of which he scored the GWG in) and the other was because Sloan went down to injury.
Frustrating? A little, but Gonchar, Boyle and Chara are ahead of him in TOI/G this year. Not a big concern at the moment.
"DON'T SAY THAT! Please! That is the worst, most stupid thing anyone could say! Cause it quite clearly isn't "only a game." I mean if it was do you honestly think I'd care this much?"
by Bald Pollack on Nov 11, 2010 11:10 AM EST up reply actions
It may be overblown, but Green has crashed and burned in the playoffs two seasons in a row. He might be better conditioned now but I’m still wary of him accumulating an excess amount of grind on his body before the playoffs start.
"Now wait a minute. This is just purely a social call. You know, just two adults getting a stew on, man."
by The Ghost of Bebop on Nov 11, 2010 11:12 AM EST up reply actions
If you had to pick “mental” or “physical” as the source of Green’s post-season woes last year, which would you pick?
Two years ago, it’d be a tougher decision, IMO – he was, uh, not in the best shape of his life. Last year, I think it was almost entirely between the ears (though that lingering wrist injury that Bruce played him through unnecessarily at the end of the year should be noted).
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
I would say that it doesn’t have to be an either-or situation. Physical grind takes a mental toll. I do agree that last year was probably more mental than physical, but I don’t think he was in particularly great shape either.
"Now wait a minute. This is just purely a social call. You know, just two adults getting a stew on, man."
by The Ghost of Bebop on Nov 11, 2010 11:17 AM EST up reply actions
2 years ago he also had a bum shoulder, which I’d bet stemmed from the Pronger hit. He missed some time but I doubt he ever fully healed and another late season hit on the same shoulder (against TBL?) reaggrevated it and made him basically a one armed man.
Lockout talk makes me want to go out and choke an old lady - Elliotte Friedman
Not that I have the clout to do this, but you’re 150% right about the Lightning “adjusting” Green’s shoulder in, I believe, the penultimate game of that regular season.
And sorry for using penultimate, that sort of vocab probably fits in better on another Caps blog ahem
"I am... *grins* ... 'Nobody' "
- Odysseus
by war_capitals on Nov 11, 2010 4:01 PM EST up reply actions
And sorry for using penultimate, that sort of vocab probably fits in better on another Caps blog ahem
Huh?
"Essentially, all models are wrong, but some are useful" George E.P. Box
by Knee high to a duck on Nov 11, 2010 4:02 PM EST up reply actions
That wasn’t a swipe at the Rink or its members’ IQs, more of a friendly dig at another blog’s fondness for high Scrabble-point words is all…
"I am... *grins* ... 'Nobody' "
- Odysseus
by war_capitals on Nov 11, 2010 4:26 PM EST up reply actions
that’d be a tough word to make in Scrabble
I don’t have much tolerance for stupid. Or cheese on food that doesn’t need it. -duck
by twistedlogic on Nov 11, 2010 4:36 PM EST up reply actions
Not as tough as antepenultimate.
(Yes, I know about the avatar hounding - just pretend mine is invisible.)
I thought you only got seven letters?
I don’t have much tolerance for stupid. Or cheese on food that doesn’t need it. -duck
by twistedlogic on Nov 12, 2010 7:39 AM EST up reply actions
I’m not so much worried about his minutes as I am about the possibility that he’s still fighting through a shoulder injury. If that’s completely healed, I can live with him eating regular season minutes until Poti gets back. Anything to keep Sloan’s ass stapled to the bench.
Lockout talk makes me want to go out and choke an old lady - Elliotte Friedman
Sure, but if his shoulder isn’t fully healed, is skating two fewer minutes per night going to help it get there? I’d think that 0 minutes per night would be the only way to get closer to 100% on that count.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
True. And we simply aren’t in a position to scratch him right now. Points are still points and while we should be safe to make the playoffs we can’t go weeks at a time with Fahey in the lineup. Maybe when Poti gets healthy we can give Green some “maintenance” days, but even then I doubt that will happen.
I think in games that we are winning handily maybe Green’s minutes can/will come down, but these last couple games have been extremely tight and you don’t want to pump up Sloskine’s minutes under those circumstances. I’m sure BB understands the bigger picture, but they are all still competitors and when a game is on the line he’s going to want to try to win it. I don’t know how he’d explain to Green that Sloskine is playing late in the third while he sits Green because he wants to manage Green’s minutes on the season.
Lockout talk makes me want to go out and choke an old lady - Elliotte Friedman
I don’t think a couple of extra minutes in November in one game is a huge deal, but when it’s consistent? It’s a problem. For a guy that’s flamed out hardcore in the last two playoffs and has looked tired and unfocused during those flameouts, it’s a problem. The amount of recovery time required after those kinds of exertions doesn’t climb linearly with time or distance, it climbs on an accelerating curve. If the team has the opportunity to play Green for 23 minutes a night instead of 25 (and consequently sparing him 6+ extra games of skating over 82 games), I think they ought to do it.
"Essentially, all models are wrong, but some are useful" George E.P. Box
by Knee high to a duck on Nov 11, 2010 3:35 PM EST up reply actions
I was annoyed with Green’s TOI when he was playing through injury. I thought he was playing too much then. He looks fine right now (knock knock knock) so I’m fine with it.
Atta dinnin stick a who!
by Gould Old Days on Nov 11, 2010 5:20 PM EST up reply actions
Sure there are, particularly when a guy like Poti is out of the lineup. Plus, this team does need to win games to make the playoffs. Now, if he’s playing 30 minutes a night in late March/early April after the team has secured a playoff position, then I would have an issue.
Just trying to capture the spirit of the thing...
by dcsportsfan1 on Nov 11, 2010 11:28 AM EST up reply actions
Quite.
Six Beers Too Many fantasy team: It's Neu-virth Than Usual
"I wake up in the middle night frustrated because we lost out in the first round and I want to see our players hoist the Stanley Cup." -Brooks Laich
by CapitalCentre on Nov 11, 2010 10:59 AM EST up reply actions
He just got back. Needs to re-acclimate. It’s not like he’s missing a Bears game tonight to sit here.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
Yeah, but the kid hasn’t played for us in weeks. I want to see him in the lineup.
And I hear you talk the talk, but I don't see you walk the walk and I still don't believe a thing you say.
Me too. Badly. I just don’t find Bruce’s decision totally absurd.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
New content regarding tonight’s match-up.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
Weird that the CI “Morning Roundup” link to the Green audio is the same source I used in Clips, which notably is not the radio station’s website. How ’bout that.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
by J.P. on Nov 11, 2010 11:13 AM EST reply actions 1 recs
Post a couple of translated articles, see what happens?
Patron saint of quality footwear.
by fat_daddyo on Nov 11, 2010 11:22 AM EST up reply actions 2 recs
Eh, it’s not like I did more than aggregate a bunch of links. But an occasional “h/t” goes a long way.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
Interested to see how that 1 – 3 – 1 of Tampa’s looks, and how the left D pushing forward works. Can’t really argue with the results so far.
Not really believing in Ellis/Smith and the Bolts’ D personnel, so I’m looking to see if the Caps can pressure them and how they respond.
Also interested to see Stamkos and his 24% shooting pct. going up against a flagging Neuvy.
I have zero idea how this one might turn out.
Patron saint of quality footwear.
TBL this morning
source:
twitter.com/TBLightning
twitter.com/erlendssontrib
(Erik Erlendsson)
For those Twitter-impaired people...
I generally can’t see Twitpic stuff at work, thought I’d help out for others w/ the same issue :)
If anyone needs me, I'll be at Kettler.
“Wow, Ovi’s house is sweet”
Just trying to capture the spirit of the thing...
by dcsportsfan1 on Nov 11, 2010 12:27 PM EST up reply actions
Bunch of young guys wearing matching shirts and shorts looking at the White House.
Just trying to capture the spirit of the thing...
by dcsportsfan1 on Nov 11, 2010 12:57 PM EST up reply actions
Pitt's Problems
PD has a post on the Pens and their current woes.
So, are you buying or selling that the Pens are in real trouble?
Myself, I’m selling. They’ll get it turned around enough to get into the playoffs, like they always do, then forecheck like hell and be a real threat once they’re there.
I do, however, buy that they’re in real trouble next year. They’ll have $51M to 13 players. The cap probably goes up a bit, but they’ve got to replace a bunch of bodies, and they will not have the luxury of making big plays on the FA market. They’re going to be thin, thin, thin, on depth next year.
Patron saint of quality footwear.
Sell. Shero will do his thing in March and we’ll be thinking “how the eff did he pull that trade off with no prospects and no goaltending and no wings again?”
"I don't care about winning the division or winning the President's Trophy. I just care about getting to the playoffs." --GMGM
by bigonetimer on Nov 11, 2010 12:51 PM EST up reply actions
They’re having a tough time right now, but I absolutely sell. At some point, their D will gel, Fleury will go back to being a decent keeper, Staal will get healthy and Shero will pick up a couple wings and they’ll be Cup contenders.
And I hear you talk the talk, but I don't see you walk the walk and I still don't believe a thing you say.
I referenced it in a post earlier but the Penguins lost their defense. I don’t respect any of current roster in terms of defense. I’d actually rather have Erskine and Sloan skate than Gogo or Orpik, personally. Gogo is equally atrocious with the puck as Sloan and Orpik is too concerned with making highlight reel hits than playing defense. It’s no surprise the Caps walked all over them last year (though, obviously, regular season means nothing) and the Penguins aren’t living up to expectations this year. MAF has never nor never will be a consistent goalie — he can play strong but any time a goal is allowed he seems to fall apart. Every goal after seems to be softer and softer. Staal being hurts kills them too since he’s a legitimate Selke candidate. Other than that, they’re just a team with Geno and Crosby. Not much of a supporting cast, in my mind.
I’ve never bought the “Penguins have some magical switch for the playoffs”. Both their runs were with a team that had some cadaverous guys playing for them. Crosby already plays his ass off all regular season, it was just guys like Gill or Gooch that were on their last legs being able to step it up for the final stretch.
My can’t miss, lock of the year says they’re going to make the playoffs and everyone will get their hopes up but Tampa all but sweeps them. I don’t see their players improving other than Staal returning and Geno getting back up to 1 point/game. MAF is still a weak point, their defense isn’t all that it is cut out to be and Crosby can only do so much on his own.
Many a night from yonder ivied casement, ere I went to rest,
Did I look on great Orion sloping slowly to the West.
I’d actually rather have Erskine and Sloan skate than Gogo or Orpik, personally.
Thanks for the laugh. That was a good one.
And I hear you talk the talk, but I don't see you walk the walk and I still don't believe a thing you say.
by D'ohboy on Nov 11, 2010 1:04 PM EST up reply actions 2 recs
That snark is to entice Hooks to post. Gogo is a poor man’s Poti/Poti is a poor man’s Gogo. I’d take Erskine over Orpik though, but ideally I wouldn’t choose either.
Many a night from yonder ivied casement, ere I went to rest,
Did I look on great Orion sloping slowly to the West.
Seriously? I mean I am not the biggest Orpik fan either and I don’t have a hate-on for Oisk but if Big Bad John were American, I don’t think he would have been considered for a spot on the US Olympic team in 2010.
I poured spot remover on my dog. Now he's gone.
by Rather Bengt on Nov 11, 2010 1:19 PM EST up reply actions
Agreed. Unless Orpik has lost a step this year, I can’t agree with this suggestion that Erskine is better as a player. If we’re factoring in contract too, then it makes a little more sense (though I think if you give the Caps a D corps of Green-Schultz, Carlson-Alzner, and Poti-Orpik, that would be pretty fearsome).
I can’t think of a scenario in which I’d rather have Erskine than Orpik. They both take themselves out of the play to make hits, but Orpik is a far better hockey player in the interim.
"Essentially, all models are wrong, but some are useful" George E.P. Box
by Knee high to a duck on Nov 11, 2010 3:45 PM EST up reply actions
Orpik is so much better at skating than Erskine.
Lockout talk makes me want to go out and choke an old lady - Elliotte Friedman
He’s better than Erskine at everything and its not close.
by Chris Burton on Nov 11, 2010 3:52 PM EST up reply actions
I bet Erskine is a better fighter, but if you meant everything really related to winning games, you’re dead on.
"Essentially, all models are wrong, but some are useful" George E.P. Box
by Knee high to a duck on Nov 11, 2010 3:52 PM EST up reply actions
Right. In my estimation a fight’s effect on the outcome of a hockey game is negligible at the very best. Shot blocking has more to do with winning the Norris Trophy (/MarioD’d!) than fighting does winning a game.
There are very, very few defenders worse than John Erskine that get regular time. One of them is also in your organization.
by Chris Burton on Nov 11, 2010 3:54 PM EST up reply actions 2 recs
Rub it in.
Ovechkin, Backstrom, Semin. NEEEEENER!
"Essentially, all models are wrong, but some are useful" George E.P. Box
by Knee high to a duck on Nov 11, 2010 3:55 PM EST up reply actions
So cliche
I don’t have much tolerance for stupid. Or cheese on food that doesn’t need it. -duck
by twistedlogic on Nov 11, 2010 3:58 PM EST up reply actions
How about a round in the playoffs. Ever.
Lockout talk makes me want to go out and choke an old lady - Elliotte Friedman
by Rob Parker on Nov 11, 2010 3:59 PM EST up reply actions 3 recs
Meh. We both have the same amount of Cups. Honestly, neither team has put their money where their mouth is.
by Chris Burton on Nov 11, 2010 4:01 PM EST up reply actions
Only if you’re the Red Wings and your idea of defense is taking the puck away from the opponent and then making them chase it all over the ice until they commit a penalty.
The reality is that no team that won the Cup since the lockout has been worse than 7th in overall scoring (ANA in 2007).
"Essentially, all models are wrong, but some are useful" George E.P. Box
by Knee high to a duck on Nov 11, 2010 4:02 PM EST up reply actions
Do you know, or can access easily, what the post-lockout Cup champs’ overall defensive numbers were?
by Chris Burton on Nov 11, 2010 4:03 PM EST up reply actions
Also very high. I’m pretty sure that the worst was PIT, but they were #1 after the coaching change that season. Small sample, but that forecheck system with that roster was absolutely fucking suffocating.
"Essentially, all models are wrong, but some are useful" George E.P. Box
by Knee high to a duck on Nov 11, 2010 4:04 PM EST up reply actions
Obviously you have to have a well-rounded team, but trotting out “defense wins championships” is overly simplistic and not fully accurate. You guys have had great defense for years, but without a single line that could scare a playoff team you haven’t won even a playoff series.
Lockout talk makes me want to go out and choke an old lady - Elliotte Friedman
I thought the snark would come through a little better, so my bad there; but the overall sentiment is the same. Well rounded is obviously most important, but I’d still build a team from the back first. Chicago, Anaheim, and Detroit all had phenomenal defensive corps.
As for Nashville, we’ve had great defensive personnel. Shea Weber, Ryan Suter, Dan Hamhuis, Greg Zanon, Marek Zidlicky, Kimmo Timonen, the list goes on – but the stark reality is the players, excluding Weber and Suter, have not played as well as a unit as their individual talents would suggest.
I think the team has had several lines capable of scaring a playoff team, but they just haven’t done it. 2005-6 really should’ve yielded a conference title.
by Chris Burton on Nov 11, 2010 4:09 PM EST up reply actions
Right, but those teams also had ridiculous forward groups. All of those squads were loaded, both on the blueline and at F.
"Essentially, all models are wrong, but some are useful" George E.P. Box
by Knee high to a duck on Nov 11, 2010 4:12 PM EST up reply actions
05-06 was the only team that really had any offensive punch and that didn’t work out so well. Tough draws for sure, but until NSH knows where they can get a goal when they need one they’ll be in trouble come playoff time.
Lockout talk makes me want to go out and choke an old lady - Elliotte Friedman
Kariya, Forsberg, Dumont, Sullivan, Erat, Radulov, Hartnell, Arnott, Weber, Suter, Zidlicky, Hamhuis, Timonen – the goals were there, they just didn’t come. Combine those guys with Vokoun, and I’m still baffled as to what went wrong.
by Chris Burton on Nov 11, 2010 4:16 PM EST up reply actions
So overused…they preach it all the time in football when the #1 D wins the Super Bowl, but how come those games never end up like 10-3?
Everything ends badly...otherwise it wouldn't end.
by Davethecapsfan on Nov 11, 2010 5:02 PM EST up reply actions
i rec marioD references nowadays. i’m sentimental that way, i guess.
by Natty Bumppo on Nov 11, 2010 5:11 PM EST up reply actions
Right; Orpik is above NHL average at skating, Erskine is well below NHL average. But even skating aside, Orpik is flatly better than Erskine.
"Essentially, all models are wrong, but some are useful" George E.P. Box
by Knee high to a duck on Nov 11, 2010 3:52 PM EST up reply actions
Right, but it’s really only because of the skating. Orpik ain’t special with the puck, and he takes himself out of position to throw big hits. The difference is that Orpik can recover better, get there in time to make the hits, and if needed can skate 4-5 strides to get the puck to safety. I’m not sure Orpik is really good at anything other than skating and being physical, and I think if Erskine could skate like Orpik he’d be substantially the same player.
Lockout talk makes me want to go out and choke an old lady - Elliotte Friedman
I think Orpik is less panicky and less prone to making really bad stick handling gaffes than Erskine is. The skating is the biggest difference, but I’d say he’s a marginal improvement in almost every other category, too.
"Essentially, all models are wrong, but some are useful" George E.P. Box
by Knee high to a duck on Nov 11, 2010 3:56 PM EST up reply actions
It’s amazing how much skating skill helps you stay calm with the puck. When you know that if things get hairy you can skate your way out of a little trouble it helps you take a second to scan the ice. Erskine knows that as soon as the forecheck is on him he’s toast so he needs to make a play with the puck immediately. Orpik has the ability to skate away from pressure so he doesn’t need to freak out. I still think his puckhandling and passing are middling at best. Really, it all comes down to the skating with those two.
Lockout talk makes me want to go out and choke an old lady - Elliotte Friedman
by Rob Parker on Nov 11, 2010 3:58 PM EST up reply actions 1 recs
See, I don’t even rate Erskine’s as middling at the NHL level, so there’s that.
"Essentially, all models are wrong, but some are useful" George E.P. Box
by Knee high to a duck on Nov 11, 2010 4:00 PM EST up reply actions
Also, Orpik actually pisses people off and takes them off their game. What’s the point of being tough as Erskine if you never get the opposing players off the ice because they got sick of you and took a big stupid slash?
Atta dinnin stick a who!
by Gould Old Days on Nov 11, 2010 5:24 PM EST up reply actions
Sell.
I’ve had too many springs ruined by Pens teams that looked like hell the previous fall. If they’re under .500 in February, l’ll warm up to the story.
There's no 'i' in "team". But there's a 'nap' in "champion".
A tougher question is buy or sell on the decline of MAF’s play.
Will he go back to being decent, capable of playing great in the playoffs?
"By far the worst performers on the team are in the front office." – Sally Jenkins
Selling, hard. Their underlying numbers are great and Fleury is going to regress to the mean of being a slightly above-average goaltender. Their shots are going to start going in and their PP won’t stay cold forever.
"Essentially, all models are wrong, but some are useful" George E.P. Box
by Knee high to a duck on Nov 11, 2010 3:38 PM EST up reply actions
their PP won’t stay cold forever.
See…I was with you until that part. As much as I’d love to see the Pens sputter and flame out now I don’t see it happening (although I don’t see them as contenders, either); that being said, their power play’s been lousy for a long time now, around 17-18% in 2008-09 and 2009-10.
If anyone needs me, I'll be at Kettler.
They’re at 14.3% right now, that’s definitely going to come up over the course of the season.
"Essentially, all models are wrong, but some are useful" George E.P. Box
by Knee high to a duck on Nov 11, 2010 4:05 PM EST up reply actions
I suppose technically…sure…it’ll probably come up from shit-tastic to mediocre. Dream big, Pens. Dream big.
If anyone needs me, I'll be at Kettler.
I mean, I hope they stay cold as the Ross Sea and that MAF continues to blow, but I doubt it happens.
"Essentially, all models are wrong, but some are useful" George E.P. Box
by Knee high to a duck on Nov 11, 2010 4:16 PM EST up reply actions
NHL Network USA is showing Caps-Bolts tonight. Their ad is centered around “John Carlson and the Caps D try and stop the Bolts’ high powered attack [lots of images of Stamkos celebrating]” Wow, I thought it would have been unheard of.
Then WTF did i pay for center ice for. I think 1 game has been on CI since I got it. At least I can watch other games when I want to, but it defeats the purpose if 90% of the games will be on NHLN and VS. The NHLN games that dont have the CSN feed piss me off more, because odds are id be able to get it with CI, but CI blacks out NHLN games.
I have the same problem with Game Center Live — I don’t have sole control over the TV, so I got GCL to watch online. Except all the games are blacked out. Not sure why I spent the money, since I watch ATDHE feeds all the time….
by funkyceili79 on Nov 11, 2010 2:26 PM EST up reply actions
Well on GameCenter Live at least they are in HD (and you can stream them on your PS3 now as well if you are a subscriber). I think there are plenty of games most nights. The problem I have is w/ the NHL Network games…they are not HD, so I have to watch games like BOS/PIT last night in standard def? What a joke. You’d think the NHL would understand that the development of HD is one of the greatest appeals and marketing tools for the sport. That they can’t even get the games on their own network in HD (unless it’s an issue w/ the providers) is ridiculous.
"Because the game is not just about fighting no more. " D.J. King
It’s an issue with providers. There is an NHLNHD channel but we don’t get it down here (at least not on Comcast). My parents get NHLNHD. Always a treat to go home.
Lockout talk makes me want to go out and choke an old lady - Elliotte Friedman
Is NHLN showing more weekday games this season than it has in the past, or am I just paying better attention?
by mechanicsville on Nov 11, 2010 4:14 PM EST up reply actions
Maybe they realized with the prospect of an All-Star Game potentially featuring Team Crosby vs. Team Ovi, and a Winter Classic featuring Captain O vs. Captain Sid, and the fact that all of their marketing since the lockout is focused around Ovi and Crosby, that maybe they might want to diversify a little bit.
I am a hockey fan first, and a Caps fan second.
by iwearstripes on Nov 11, 2010 3:10 PM EST up reply actions
Anybody notice in the NBC Calder Trophy Watch that Neuvy gets credit for beating Bobrovsky on Sunday? Nice for Neuvy to get some credit for his play, it would just be a better argument if, you know, he actually played the game.
I am a hockey fan first, and a Caps fan second.
Ugh
Just for yucks I’m watching parts of the pregame show on nhl.com. Segment on who will win the Ross argues between Sid and Alex. Please. Surprised neither of them said Stamkos. And the argument is terrible. Or contrived, I’m not sure which.
"It's always good to have vikings."
Just for ratings. I’d be surprised if Stamkos wins since his shooting percentage is about 99% but you gotta mention him. Unfortunately he plays for a team no one particularly cares about in a market that might be even smaller than DC.
Many a night from yonder ivied casement, ere I went to rest,
Did I look on great Orion sloping slowly to the West.
Anyone else really curious to see how the PK handles itself against an undeniably elite unit? I view this game as a litmus test for this unit, as much as can be had in a one-game sample.
"Essentially, all models are wrong, but some are useful" George E.P. Box
by Knee high to a duck on Nov 11, 2010 4:44 PM EST reply actions
I think it’s a test for the D and goaltending in general. We’ve talked a lot about how they have improved, but we are going to now see what they can do against an elite O (PHI was their only other big test, but I think TB is more explosive).
Release the Mackan!
by Killer_Carlson on Nov 11, 2010 5:00 PM EST up reply actions
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