Monday Caps Clips: Caps @ Devils Game Day
by J.P. on Nov 22, 2010 6:29 AM EST
in Caps Clips
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PrintYour savory breakfast links:
- Previews of tonight's dance with the Devils from Vogs, WaPo (Carrera), Peerless, RLS and KOL, and be sure to check out our SB Nation partner In Lou We Trust for more coverage from the other side of tonight's match up.
- Looking back at the week that was... [Peerless]
- ... and a big-picture view of the Caps at the quarter-pole. [Ed Frankovic's Blog]
- Some well-deserved praise for Boyd Gordon. [Insider2]
- A look at scoring chances so far. [RMNB]
- Don Cherry loves him some
tartanJohn Erskine. [YouTube (~2:40)] - The Caps? They're a contender. So is everyone. [THN]
- Waiting for Godovechkin. [Spare Change]
- Why you should buy the DVD. [Heart Pounding Hockey]
- Buy or sell: Alex Ovechkin "is recognized by 37 percent of the American public." [NYT]
- A look at Semyon Varlamov 's new mask... [RMNB]
- ... and, more importantly, a note or two on his night between the pipes for the Bears. [Patriot-News (Leone), SHoE]
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Blair Betts is seen here running Nicklas Backstrom through during first period action. Backstrom was whistled for a double minor — interference and abuse of opponents’ equipment.
Best line describing that referee driven (on both teams) game. Thanks Peerless for bringing the funny to a Monday morning.
Alright, confess-how many goals are you going to make this year?
"I'm not going to tell!"
Well can you at least guarantee fifty?
"No way. I have a different objective. To win."
Good to know I’m not the only one reading: http://doncherryjacketwatch.wordpress.com/
You had me at no problem.
That game day preview at In Lou We Trust is pretty depressing. Is that how we sounded a few years ago?
Let’s hope our boys aren’t overlooking the Devils.
"It's always good to have vikings."
I’m not sure how it is at Japers’ Rink – but I believe pretty much everything outside of comments on game threads written over at ILWT is by season-ticket holders.
Wouldn’t you be down? Keep in mind that they followed up their first and only home win of the season with an 0-3-0 road trip, Marty is injured (nobody really seems to believe Lou that it’s ‘just a bruise’), Parise is out, and Kovalchuk isn’t carrying the team.
It’s been an ugly year for those of us with the full pass to the Rock.
What’s going on in Jersey reminds me of the early part of the 2003-04 season… by the end of November, early December, the decision was made by the Caps to hold a fire sale and unload just about every veteran player and rebuild by collecting draft choices and prospects. It paid off, but damn it was painful for a few years.
I can see the Devils doing something similar and rebuilding around Kovalchuk, Zajac and Parise. The big thing they have to do though is be willing to part with any veteran player (and that means any veteran player, including Brodeur) and get draft picks and prospects. Then they need to invest money in hiring scouts, good scouts, but also more scouts. Go find the diamonds in the rough out there. If the Devils are willing to suck it up and forgo this year, 2011-2012 and 2012-13, they can be a very competitive young team by 2013-14. They have to decide to this, of course, but they have a head start on the Caps in 2003, in that they have several quality players under the age of 30. The Caps in 2003-04 had several quality players, but all were past the age of 30…
And from that era, only one player remains (Boyd Gordon)…
Washington Capitals 2009-10 = Quebec Nordiques 1994-95
--- D'ohboy
by MikeL-Pivonka on Nov 22, 2010 10:14 AM EST up reply actions
Don’t forget that signing Kovy cost them a #1 draft pick
Atta dinnin stick a who!
by Gould Old Days on Nov 22, 2010 10:26 AM EST up reply actions
Unloading someone like Marty to a team with a legit shot to win the Cup other than solid goaltending (hmmm… ) could get them a #1 pick in return…
Washington Capitals 2009-10 = Quebec Nordiques 1994-95
--- D'ohboy
by MikeL-Pivonka on Nov 22, 2010 3:06 PM EST up reply actions
Somewhat related: I guess Arnott would be available now?
by red army line on Nov 22, 2010 7:21 PM EST up reply actions
It’s tough to do that though, I think, because the Devils structured this as the last part of their championship window with Brodeur still playing well. Lots of guys have NMCs and NTCs, and they’re down some draft picks from trades (including that punitive first-rounder from the NHL).
I don’t think Lou had a plan to rebuild beyond Parise and Zajac, honestly – I think he probably wanted to ride Brodeur for at least this season and next, and assumed that the team wouldn’t fall apart like this so he could have two more shots at a playoff run.
And Laich showed up at the end of that season in the Bondra trade, spending most of it in th AHL. Semin also was here that season for 52 games.
True, but Gordo was here before the fire sale began, being in the line up on opening day 2003. Laich became part of the fire sale, and Semin didn’t actually begin playing in the NHL until the sale was underway.
Washington Capitals 2009-10 = Quebec Nordiques 1994-95
--- D'ohboy
by MikeL-Pivonka on Nov 22, 2010 3:07 PM EST up reply actions
Well, Semin was playing for the Caps in October 2003. Not sure when exactly the firesale began, but October is pretty early in the season.
I was here too…and still on the payroll.
Fondly,
M. Nylander
Just trying to capture the spirit of the thing...
by dcsportsfan1 on Nov 22, 2010 5:05 PM EST up reply actions
but I believe pretty much everything outside of comments on game threads written over at ILWT is by season-ticket holders.
Maybe CP could chime in here, but I find it odd many threads on FFH have few to no comments (maybe the posts are just that comprehensive?) and then there are ~300 on GDTs from what I’ve seen.
by red army line on Nov 22, 2010 11:12 AM EST up reply actions
It’s because you are used to things around here. We are trying to get people to join and comment. Early in the season both Travis and myself put up posts on the subject. Those GDT threads may have 300 comments, but its mainly from the same 6-7 people.
The Artist Formerly Known as CP2Devil.
Links guy at Five For Howling.
by Carl Putnam on Nov 22, 2010 11:21 AM EST up reply actions
It’s probably the same phenomenon that happens here (albeit on a larger scale), no? Not that we don’t have a great community, and you guys are awesome at engaging in discussion in the actual posts, but check the GDT’s – generally 5-6 times the number of comments at least.
My guess: people like to chat during games :) We’re unusual in that our readers also engage in discussion/debate on regular posts. Not a lot of SBN blogs have that level of participation (yet).
If anyone needs me, I'll be at Kettler.
What she said.
The Artist Formerly Known as CP2Devil.
Links guy at Five For Howling.
by Carl Putnam on Nov 22, 2010 11:24 AM EST up reply actions
Pssst, wrong link for the SHoE article, it should be this one http://www.sweetesthockeyonearth.com/2010/11/22/second-period-pushes-bears-to-4-3-win-over-wolf-pack/
LET'S GO CAPS!!!
and here’s an OFB post on the Bears from today as well http://www.onfrozenblog.com/2010/11/22/down-on-the-farm-all-beat-up-and-gutting-out-a-weekend-salvaging-win.html
LET'S GO CAPS!!!
I might buy that 37% of the American public recognize Alex Ovechkin the name, if the American public is defined as sports fans in the Mid-Atlantic region.
This sig is brought to you by... Frungy, The Sport of Kings!
lol…yeah, I was wondering what they mean by “recognize”. The Crosby and Ovie numbers seem high, but Martin Brodeur at 41%? Who other than hardcore fans are picking him out of the crowd walking down the street?
.
Follow me on twitter, Picasa or at Pens Through My Lens.
by PensAreYourDaddy on Nov 22, 2010 9:24 AM EST up reply actions
I’d like to know more about the methodology of this survey. I think a higher percentage of people would recognize his name versus what he looks like.
I’ve seen Ovie at skins games walk through the huge crowds completely unrecognized. I’ve also seen him at skins games be begged for autographs as much as the skins players.
Ovie goes to the Hair Cuttery in the mall where the Caps practice to get his hair cut and he probably goes there pretty much unnoticed.
Worse… sometimes players who are inactive go unnoticed at the Verizon Center during games. I can’t tell you how many folks walked past Boyd Gordon the other day. I don’t think he minded, but I wished him well and he liked that… he’s a good guy.
Washington Capitals 2009-10 = Quebec Nordiques 1994-95
--- D'ohboy
by MikeL-Pivonka on Nov 22, 2010 9:35 AM EST up reply actions
After reading what George went through playing in the minors, I know everyone on the team would wear helmets. I’m surprised he doesn’t make them wear helmets in warm-ups….
Washington Capitals 2009-10 = Quebec Nordiques 1994-95
--- D'ohboy
by MikeL-Pivonka on Nov 22, 2010 10:04 AM EST up reply actions
Worse… sometimes players who are inactive go unnoticed at the Verizon Center during games. I can’t tell you how many folks walked past Boyd Gordon the other day.
Probably a bit of “is that??? No, can’t be!” Who really expects to see players walking around the 400 level?
Pledge Drive 2010-2011: SO KIDS CAN!! Help build a playground
Man….I wish I would see a few of the players on the 400 level!
I don’t have much tolerance for stupid. Or cheese on food that doesn’t need it. -duck
by twistedlogic on Nov 22, 2010 12:49 PM EST up reply actions
My list starts Flash, Sloane, …
Oh. I misunderstood.
"Inglewood Jack! Inglewood Jack!" - Coach Jules
by Alz Well That Ends Well on Nov 22, 2010 2:03 PM EST up reply actions 1 recs
He was there for the Kids Club party, and was sitting at a table with some of usual alums signing autographs (Errol Rousse, Alan Hangsleben, etc.)
Washington Capitals 2009-10 = Quebec Nordiques 1994-95
--- D'ohboy
by MikeL-Pivonka on Nov 22, 2010 3:08 PM EST up reply actions
41% of the American public doesn’t know who the President is, much less Ovi or Sid. Here’s a bit on Q ratings
Just trying to capture the spirit of the thing...
by dcsportsfan1 on Nov 22, 2010 9:56 AM EST up reply actions 1 recs
I read that but it didn’t really tell me much. I’m curious was the sample size was, along with the location of the survey respondents.
by vtcapsfan99 on Nov 22, 2010 11:16 AM EST up reply actions
That picture of Greenie and Kovy reminds me of this programming note.
Just trying to capture the spirit of the thing...
by dcsportsfan1 on Nov 22, 2010 8:37 AM EST reply actions 1 recs
Slava Malamud described that fight so perfectly (from http://hockey.sport-express.ru/reviews/8565/):
A similar phenomenon may be observed when you drop a couple of beetles into a toilet and flush.
Here’s hoping there’s no rematch for the sake of both teams’ coaches and GMs.
Washington Capitals 2009-10 = Quebec Nordiques 1994-95
--- D'ohboy
by MikeL-Pivonka on Nov 22, 2010 9:30 AM EST up reply actions
Bäckis, Ovi, and one-third of the Swedish House Mafia*...
…at Fur/Club Glow on Saturday night. This is one way to erase the sting of #shootoutfail:
For reference, meet Steve Angello and the Swedish House Mafia:
*We’re guessing that Second Star of the Night MJ90 was around there somewhere as well, unless they actually checked his ID and made him wait in the car…
You perhaps knew me better as "Your Nation's Capital." Same great commentary, now with 100% more transparency!
by EmilyB on Nov 22, 2010 9:07 AM EST reply actions 1 recs
Exactly the point I was trying to make on another thread. The boys sure don’t look like they just lost two games in a row do they?
I think it’s unrealistic for us to assume that losing two in a row – especially when the second was at least a hard-fought game they lost via a gimmick – would send these boys into a shame spiral, hiding out in a dark room somewhere.
They’re young, they’re rich, they’re famous and they had the next day off, so they go out and have fun, blow off a little steam – who cares? In fact I’d much prefer to see this than hear they were beating themselves up over it, because nothing is gained by dwelling on a loss and if you hide away after every one you’re going to be a very boring, one-sided person. They deserve lives outside of hockey.
If anyone needs me, I'll be at Kettler.
OK, then, so what’s your prescription for getting Ovie out of his funk? Do you think that, given more time, his blowing off steam this way will yield positive results on the ice?
I don’t know what will get him out of his funk, partly because I don’t know what’s causing it. Is he injured? Is he in his head too much? Is he trying to save something for the playoffs?
Whatever it is, I doubt him blowing off steam in this manner is related to his performance on the ice. For one thing, if he’s going out and getting wasted every night – and playing hungover every game – I’d doubt it was a new trend this season and he’s had some pretty good years so far. (And for the record I don’t think he is, or has been in the past, just saying.)
For another, the League is filled with 20-something guys making pretty good money, a lot of them are single, and I assure you that most of them partake of the nightlife in whatever city they’re in – or visiting – as often as possible. This is hardly novel, to hear about athletes going out and partying when they have the following day off. I don’t think it will yield positive results but I don’t think it’ll yield negative results, either.
If anyone needs me, I'll be at Kettler.
Are there any video montages on the new OV DVD set to Steve Winwood’s “Back in the High Life”?
I poured spot remover on my dog. Now he's gone.
by Rather Bengt on Nov 22, 2010 4:22 PM EST up reply actions
Time. Slumps happen. Then they end.
Atta dinnin stick a who!
by Gould Old Days on Nov 22, 2010 4:27 PM EST up reply actions
I see where you are going with this.
Ovi should go straight home after the game and sit on the coach drinking hot cocoa while watching tapes of the recent games fast forwarding to key moments such as when he got stoned by Bouch on his breakaway then ruminated deep into the night on on how to fix his ailing game.
This will definitely get Ovi out of his funk.
Alright, confess-how many goals are you going to make this year?
"I'm not going to tell!"
Well can you at least guarantee fifty?
"No way. I have a different objective. To win."
by capsyoungguns on Nov 22, 2010 4:46 PM EST up reply actions
My prescription for Ovie would include him spending more time playing with his dog Ghera to help him relax and focus.
As I posted on another thread, I believe tonight will be the night Ovie emerges from his funk and has a monster game. What finally did it was spending more time playing Frisbee with Ghera.
/snark
Heh. He probably does spend much time with Ghera. I hope you’re right about a monster Ovi game. We all need it and it has nothing to do with points or standings. The world feels upside down when Ovi’s in a funk.
Alright, confess-how many goals are you going to make this year?
"I'm not going to tell!"
Well can you at least guarantee fifty?
"No way. I have a different objective. To win."
by capsyoungguns on Nov 22, 2010 6:02 PM EST up reply actions
I am proud that the team is playing productively while some of our best players are in a bit of a funk. That shows depth and maturity and that we are not a one player team or a one line team.Too much from the owner, or is it OK to call Ovechkin out this way?
Atta dinnin stick a who!
I think it’s okay. The honesty is appreciated. He was diplomatic about it.
I poured spot remover on my dog. Now he's gone.
by Rather Bengt on Nov 22, 2010 9:25 AM EST up reply actions
It’s fine. You can tell from watching Ovie that he knows he’s not playing up to his usual standards… He’ll get out of this funk and the Caps will keep right on winning…
Washington Capitals 2009-10 = Quebec Nordiques 1994-95
--- D'ohboy
by MikeL-Pivonka on Nov 22, 2010 9:31 AM EST up reply actions
Beats the “lost his smile” argument some folks want to keep tossing out there.
"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 22, 2010 9:34 AM EST up reply actions
come to think of it, there are a few shawn michaels references that apply to AO. the bodyguards: diesel and matt bradley.
the “montreal screwjob.” let’s just hope ovie keeps a better relationship with upper management.
by Natty Bumppo on Nov 22, 2010 10:28 AM EST up reply actions
Nor pick a bar fight with some Marines (if that’s still the story).
"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 22, 2010 10:53 AM EST up reply actions
Looking forward to a Mike Knuble update. Not that we’ll get one.
You perhaps knew me better as "Your Nation's Capital." Same great commentary, now with 100% more transparency!
“Mike Knuble has an upper body injury and he is day-to-day, or perhaps he has a lower body injury and is day-to-week, or out for an indefinite amount of time.”
Ya know, someone should make a flowchart similar to DGB’s suspension flowchart, that describes the how teams announce injuries.
Washington Capitals 2009-10 = Quebec Nordiques 1994-95
--- D'ohboy
by MikeL-Pivonka on Nov 22, 2010 9:32 AM EST up reply actions
Being coy on this one makes no sense. First of all, we all saw what happened and where it happened. Second, it’s not like teams are going to key on Knubs jawline and make sure to give it an extra whack. Hey, but in keeping with team policy, they will not confirm or deny that Knubs is eating through a straw.
Just trying to capture the spirit of the thing...
by dcsportsfan1 on Nov 22, 2010 9:52 AM EST up reply actions
TSN.com lists Knuble as “questionable for Monday’s game” with an injury to his face.
Photography: I Rock the Red
Twitter: @IRockTheRed
E-mail: irockthered {at} gmail {dot} com
by IRockTheRed on Nov 22, 2010 10:05 AM EST up reply actions
“I can’t comment on the fact that Knuble is drinking milkshakes and eating pureed steak through a straw. "
“But he’s got a…”
“He could be using a sippy-cup… no more questions…”
Washington Capitals 2009-10 = Quebec Nordiques 1994-95
--- D'ohboy
by MikeL-Pivonka on Nov 22, 2010 10:06 AM EST up reply actions 2 recs
it’s not like teams are going to key on Knubs jawline and make sure to give it an extra whack
Wait, Kaleta, Koci, Downie, Carcillo, and Avery are all out of the league and no longer playing? How did I miss the news?
Atta dinnin stick a who!
by Gould Old Days on Nov 22, 2010 10:11 AM EST up reply actions
To make no mention of any post-whistle scrums. You can believe a guy like Max Lapierre will pay extra attention to a facewash on Knuble.
"Essentially, all models are wrong, but some are useful" George E.P. Box
by Knee high to a duck on Nov 22, 2010 12:16 PM EST via mobile up reply actions
“The Washington Capitals acknowledge that a player named Mike Knuble exists.”
This sig is brought to you by... Frungy, The Sport of Kings!
by apk3000 on Nov 22, 2010 9:39 AM EST up reply actions 1 recs
The Washington Capitals can neither confirm nor deny the existence of Mike Knuble.
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 Washington Capitals neither confirm nor deny that they exist or play hockey.
Washington Capitals 2009-10 = Quebec Nordiques 1994-95
--- D'ohboy
by MikeL-Pivonka on Nov 22, 2010 10:08 AM EST up reply actions
Although limited seats remain available.
You perhaps knew me better as "Your Nation's Capital." Same great commentary, now with 100% more transparency!
by EmilyB on Nov 22, 2010 10:09 AM EST up reply actions 3 recs
Thanks to the NHL…. the Caps are required to not sell every seat as a season ticket. They have an estimated 6 year waiting list for season tickets.
Washington Capitals 2009-10 = Quebec Nordiques 1994-95
--- D'ohboy
by MikeL-Pivonka on Nov 22, 2010 10:15 AM EST up reply actions
Is it an NHL rule? I know they reserve some seats for promotions and other things, but I did not know it was mandated by the league.
Aim for the head baby Jesus
Wouldn’t surprise me – it’s not good marketing for a team to have no tickets available for sale to the general public. You lose people who can’t afford season tickets or who live far away and only get to come in to see their team a few times a year, that kind of thing.
If anyone needs me, I'll be at Kettler.
I agree with this completely, I am just more likely to accuse Ted of good marketing than the league, since the league has done a pretty crappy job of marketing itself over the years.
Aim for the head baby Jesus
Based on what I’ve been able to figure out from my season ticket holder rep, there are at least 2000 seats that must be “held out” of the season ticket holder base every game. These are used by the team, opposing team, the league, or sold on an individual basis. We had some of these seats next to us last year. Everyone from Gary Bettman to Nick Backstrom’s sweedish cousins to the guy who does HVAC work at Kettler sat there.
That’s why the team can say it has a sell out even when seats are empty.
They also hold some back for group sales and marketing (buy a WIz plan and we’ll throw in a Caps game).
The empty seats you see are “sold”, particularly in the lower bowl. I believe they are owned by season ticket holders (i know the two next to me are) who don’t/can’t sell them and just eat them. There are tickets on stubhub and ticket exchange that go unsold up until game time.
Just trying to capture the spirit of the thing...
by dcsportsfan1 on Nov 22, 2010 11:24 AM EST up reply actions
Aside from the various things already noted, there are provisions in the CBA for player and league seats, all in the lower bowl. If they don’t use them (not all are gratis), it explains why there are are always at least “limited” seats still available the day before or even on game day.
"It's always good to have vikings."
Caution: Mike Knuble may suddenly accelerate to dangerous speeds.
Mike Knuble contains a liquid core, which, if exposed due to rupture, should not be touched, inhaled, or looked at.
Do not use Mike Knuble on concrete.
Discontinue use of Mike Knuble if any of the following occurs:
itching
vertigo
dizziness
tingling in extremities
loss of balance or coordination
slurred speech
temporary blindness
profuse sweating
or heart palpitations.
If Mike Knuble begins to smoke, get away immediately. Seek shelter and cover head.
Mike Knuble may stick to certain types of skin.
Do not taunt Mike Knuble.
Atta dinnin stick a who!
by Gould Old Days on Nov 22, 2010 10:14 AM EST up reply actions 18 recs
The rec’d sensation that’s sweeping the nation.
"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 22, 2010 10:16 AM EST up reply actions
If Mike Knuble persists for more than three hours, please see a doctor immediately.
The bastards hung me in the spring of '25. But I am still alive.
Box Seats Blog
Ron and Fez 11 to 3
by YvonLabresMoustache on Nov 22, 2010 10:16 AM EST up reply actions 3 recs
You know, alot of those symptoms can occur when listening to Lady Gaga, and we know Knubs is a fan….
Washington Capitals 2009-10 = Quebec Nordiques 1994-95
--- D'ohboy
by MikeL-Pivonka on Nov 22, 2010 10:16 AM EST up reply actions
Do not taunt Happy Fun Knuble.
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 22, 2010 10:26 AM EST up reply actions 2 recs
Mike Knuble may stick to certain types of skin and padding.
by red army line on Nov 22, 2010 11:13 AM EST up reply actions
I’m about 90% sure I’ll have a spare ticket to the game tonight – if anyone from the Rink crowd is willing to make the drive/train trip, or is an exile in metro-NY like me and rock a Caps jersey to the game, it’s theirs for free. Email me if interested.
Wishing I was er, underemployed today. A train ride to a game at the Rock would be fun.
You perhaps knew me better as "Your Nation's Capital." Same great commentary, now with 100% more transparency!
The train may well be fun…but a game at the Rock. That place seems like a mausoleum; and that’s when the Devs are winning!
by mechanicsville on Nov 22, 2010 10:42 AM EST up reply actions
I would, but it’s Mr. B’s birthday. Sort of need to stay home tonight!
Pledge Drive 2010-2011: SO KIDS CAN!! Help build a playground
@TGfireandice
The Devils have recalled defenseman Mark Fayne from Albany on emergency conditions. I don’t know yet if this is related to Greene’s stinger
You perhaps knew me better as "Your Nation's Capital." Same great commentary, now with 100% more transparency!
Fayne? Ohmigod, this is going to have dramatic changes and severe repercussions up and down the game plan that Gabby has for tonight….
Ok, maybe not. Who the hell is Mark Fayne? Didn’t he write “Tom Sawyer” and “Huckleberry Finn”?
Washington Capitals 2009-10 = Quebec Nordiques 1994-95
--- D'ohboy
by MikeL-Pivonka on Nov 22, 2010 10:07 AM EST up reply actions
He’s actually the director of such fine films as “Hinn’s Adventures,” “A Connecticut Hussy in King Art’s Chambers,” and “Pudd’nhead Wilson”
Atta dinnin stick a who!
by Gould Old Days on Nov 22, 2010 10:22 AM EST up reply actions
Nah, he’s just the Warm Body On The Bench To Be Named Later who got called up ’cos Andy Greene got the Mike Green Special shoulder “stinger” @ St. Louis.
You perhaps knew me better as "Your Nation's Capital." Same great commentary, now with 100% more transparency!
Interesting note about tonight’s game that hadn’t occurred to me – Taormina is still out with a sprained ankle. I thought he did a pretty decent job of neutralizing Ovie a bit in the first meeting w/ the Devils, particularly early on when the game was still close. There were 7 goals scored in that game and 8 “only” had 2G and 1A, with the assist coming on the PP and one of the goals coming via penalty shot.
If anyone needs me, I'll be at Kettler.
…but that’s only if I’m remembering him correctly. Can anyone else vouch for this? :P
If anyone needs me, I'll be at Kettler.
I don’t remember the game, but looking at my scoring chance tally, I have Taormina (#20) at 1F 0A while NJD was on the PP, 3F 5A at ES, and 1F 2A while the Devils were SH. For the game I had 33-18 for the Caps, 22-14 at evens.
Knee high got NJD PP 1-0, ES 4-2 (although one chance is listed as a Washington chance when the description is “Kovy open slapper”), and Devils PK 0-2. He had a 29-13 final tally in favor of Washington (21-11 at evens), so Taormina did a good job.
by red army line on Nov 22, 2010 11:28 AM EST up reply actions
Considering the quality of the call-ups so far for the Devils – I’d say if he’s in they’re in even more trouble than usual.
They don’t have a shutdown pair right now (either for defensive skill or puck possession), so if they toss this guy in there’s really not going to be any way to protect him – or if they do, they’re putting an even heavier burden on Colin White, who’s been their best veteran blueliner in a lot of games.
Never mind:
@TGfireandice
Andy Greene said there is no issue with his left shoulder stinger and he’s fine to play tonight.
You perhaps knew me better as "Your Nation's Capital." Same great commentary, now with 100% more transparency!
Yup. And:
All Devils defensemen came off ice at end of skate except Salmela, so reason for Fayne’s recall remains a mystery.
If anyone needs me, I'll be at Kettler.
Salmela? Can that be cleaned up with antibiotics?
Washington Capitals 2009-10 = Quebec Nordiques 1994-95
--- D'ohboy
by MikeL-Pivonka on Nov 22, 2010 3:12 PM EST up reply actions
So does Holtby get the net tonight? Imma thinking – yes.
You perhaps knew me better as "Your Nation's Capital." Same great commentary, now with 100% more transparency!
Got to. Neuvy played back to backs, and the Carolina and Tampa games are more important than this one.
The bastards hung me in the spring of '25. But I am still alive.
Box Seats Blog
Ron and Fez 11 to 3
by YvonLabresMoustache on Nov 22, 2010 10:07 AM EST up reply actions
Anyone have a prediction when Varly will returns?
by mechanicsville on Nov 22, 2010 10:44 AM EST reply actions
From the WP:
Boudreau said there continues to be no set timeline for Varlamov’s conditioning assignment in Hershey and that there have been no setbacks in the 22-year-old’s recovery from the latest flare-up of a groin injury that has hampered him all season. The Capitals are looking to give Varlamov ample time to get back into a game rhythm as he appeared in only two NHL games.
“He’s practicing fine and he’s game rusty,” Boudreau said. “He’s a really good goaltender and it takes a little time to get the rust off your game – positioning, lining up, being in a game for 60 minutes and having your head there – you can’t get that from taking shots. . . . When he’s ready [to return], he’s ready. We’ll all know. There’s not a date you can put on it right now.”
by vtcapsfan99 on Nov 22, 2010 10:59 AM EST up reply actions
The Capitals will neither confirm nor deny the existence of days, or…
Ok, the jokes are overused… I’ll stop.
Washington Capitals 2009-10 = Quebec Nordiques 1994-95
--- D'ohboy
by MikeL-Pivonka on Nov 22, 2010 3:13 PM EST up reply actions
My seats were down low and right in line with Varly for periods 1 and 3 in last night’s Bears game. He didn’t look bad, but not great either. His glove saves were good (though I know the speed of AHL shots aren’t as fast as NHL), and he was good in re-directing rebounds off to the sideboards (only saw one really bad rebound). He gave up 3 goals on 22 shots. Nothing he could have done on the first and second, but the third was iffy: It was a point shot that he should have seen clearly, but it didn’t look like he reacted to it in time. I’ll go ahead and blame it on rust.
"I would feed them lefts until I was pretty much tired of doing it." - Alan May, JRR, 10.16.2010
He was screened by Kugryshev on one of the Saturday goals.
You perhaps knew me better as "Your Nation's Capital." Same great commentary, now with 100% more transparency!
Kuger is back in Hershey for good, then? or is he an injury call-up?
by DrinkingPartner on Nov 22, 2010 1:25 PM EST up reply actions
That was the second. Hartford had a 3on2 rush as well, and the Bears may have been coasting a bit since they had a 4-1 lead. The first one was on a 5on3PP; the shot came from up top, through a crowd, and tipped in at the last second. Nothing he could have done on that one either.
Other observations from last night’s game –
You could tell both teams were dog tired from playing 3 games in 3 days. Perreault’s first goal right at the start of Period 2 kinda woke everyone up: Hartford was passing the puck in the neutral zone, he timed his move to sneak in and grabbed it, and took off. Also, Trevor Bruess stood out in the game, showing some great skating moves and solid hits at the boards.
"I would feed them lefts until I was pretty much tired of doing it." - Alan May, JRR, 10.16.2010
I don’t mean to make a big deal about something I posted, but if anyone wants an excellent read check out the fanshot link to the Bob McKenzie blog entry from September. Also includes a wonderful story about Tikkanese within.
I poured spot remover on my dog. Now he's gone.
It is a great piece
Atta dinnin stick a who!
by Gould Old Days on Nov 22, 2010 12:24 PM EST up reply actions
Looks like Hedberg in net for the Devils tonight. That should only bring back a half dozen nightmares for me. 2001 still sucks.
The Artist Formerly Known as CP2Devil.
Links guy at Five For Howling.
The sequel 2010 was disappointing also.
I poured spot remover on my dog. Now he's gone.
by Rather Bengt on Nov 22, 2010 11:29 AM EST up reply actions 1 recs
Rec’d for the noticing the symmetry.
The Artist Formerly Known as CP2Devil.
Links guy at Five For Howling.
by Carl Putnam on Nov 22, 2010 11:31 AM EST up reply actions
Looks like Hedberg in net for the Devils tonight
I used to play goaltender. I still do, but I used to, too.
The bastards hung me in the spring of '25. But I am still alive.
Box Seats Blog
Ron and Fez 11 to 3
by YvonLabresMoustache on Nov 22, 2010 11:30 AM EST up reply actions
“It’s deja vu all over again” – Yogi Berra.
I poured spot remover on my dog. Now he's gone.
by Rather Bengt on Nov 22, 2010 11:36 AM EST up reply actions
I hit the “cancel” button too late when I realized I had put the second part in quotes.
The bastards hung me in the spring of '25. But I am still alive.
Box Seats Blog
Ron and Fez 11 to 3
by YvonLabresMoustache on Nov 22, 2010 11:38 AM EST up reply actions
Mitch Hedberg, FTW
We're Hüsker Dü and we're on MTV. Who are you, and what are you on?
by bilspacecadet on Nov 22, 2010 12:05 PM EST up reply actions
Funny, Jonas Hedberg used to be a goaltender too…
I still remember one game where the Caps and Penguins were going at it and Craig Billington (Caps back up goalie/resident weirdo) was giving it to Hedberg from the bench, making “antlers” for Moose next to his head… it was a riot.
Washington Capitals 2009-10 = Quebec Nordiques 1994-95
--- D'ohboy
by MikeL-Pivonka on Nov 22, 2010 3:16 PM EST up reply actions 1 recs
KCarrera reports Neuvy is starting tonight. Oh boy.
Gramps has his slippers and an easy chair at home, and Poti “might” skate tonight.
You perhaps knew me better as "Your Nation's Capital." Same great commentary, now with 100% more transparency!
Okay, he had a weak start, but Holtby’s got to keep spelling Neuvirth. Maybe this is just in an effort to get the Caps out of their 0-1-1 funk.
by DrinkingPartner on Nov 22, 2010 12:00 PM EST up reply actions
I don’t know if you’ve noticed, but “Neuvirth” is hard to spell. Locker has a lot of trouble just pronouncing it.
"Inglewood Jack! Inglewood Jack!" - Coach Jules
by Alz Well That Ends Well on Nov 22, 2010 12:11 PM EST up reply actions 1 recs
T-h-e T-r-u-t-h isn’t that hard to spell, in all honesty.
You perhaps knew me better as "Your Nation's Capital." Same great commentary, now with 100% more transparency!
by EmilyB on Nov 22, 2010 12:22 PM EST up reply actions 2 recs
TRUTH!
Pledge Drive 2010-2011: SO KIDS CAN!! Help build a playground
by RedBirdie on Nov 22, 2010 12:38 PM EST up reply actions 3 recs
You know you wanted it:
We're Hüsker Dü and we're on MTV. Who are you, and what are you on?
by bilspacecadet on Nov 22, 2010 12:47 PM EST up reply actions
that’s going to cause nightmares. eeek!
Pledge Drive 2010-2011: SO KIDS CAN!! Help build a playground
Oh come on....
Shouldn’t the caption below that picture be “BJORK”
Washington Capitals 2009-10 = Quebec Nordiques 1994-95
--- D'ohboy
by MikeL-Pivonka on Nov 22, 2010 3:17 PM EST up reply actions
Don’t most of the players saw “Noovy”? That’s predominantly what I’ve heard.
If wishes were horses, we'd all be eating steak.
by Hang a Laingtern on Your Problems on Nov 22, 2010 1:35 PM EST up reply actions
I think it’s an accent thing. Long “o” of the Canadians vs the “ew” sound of Americans.
Pledge Drive 2010-2011: SO KIDS CAN!! Help build a playground
Either way it isn’t “Noyvy.”
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 22, 2010 1:40 PM EST up reply actions
One of the interesting things from Saturday’s game was that Semin wasn’t on the PK very much. We’ve observed that Semin seems motivated by playing on the PK. So did Semin have a bad game Saturday because he wasn’t on the PK, or was Semin not on the PK because he was having a bad game, or another reason completely?
Here’s a quote by Semin about the PK:
Even though he’s been in the league since the 2003-04 season, Semin’s command of the English language remains rudimentary at best. Still, through new PR staffer Sergey Kocharov, Semin told ESPN.com that he feels honored Boudreau has enough confidence in him to use him in a variety of situations, including killing penalties.
“I’m very excited that he’s trusted me to be on the penalty kill,” Semin said. “I’m happy that he’s given me that responsibility.”
Also, I think Semin has more than a rudimentary command of English. He has been seen having fairly long conversations with English speaking teammates.
One reason he might not have gotten a lot of PK time Saturday is because he spent so much time in the box himself — 6 minutes.
by Karl W on Nov 22, 2010 1:03 PM EST up reply actions 2 recs
From Elliotte Friedman’s 30 thoughts:
21. Yes, it was a bad weekend for the Canucks and sometimes hard to remember it’s only two games out of 82. But, if I was concerned about anything, it would be how little impact Dan Hamhuis and Keith Ballard have had. Yes, Ballard is recovering from injuries, but their transition has been more difficult than expected.
You perhaps knew me better as "Your Nation's Capital." Same great commentary, now with 100% more transparency!
Link?
"Hockey is my life, wine is my passion." -- Igor Larionov
by Scott in Shaw on Nov 22, 2010 5:48 PM EST up reply actions
Awwww
cmasisak22 Funny moment this morning: Kovalchuk poked his head thru hallway curtain b/w 2 rooms and asked BB if he could tell the Alexes he was there.
cmasisak22 It was like the kid down the street asking if Alex and Alex could come out to play … if the kids all made at least $6 million a year.
"It's always good to have vikings."
by gfcaps fan on Nov 22, 2010 3:02 PM EST reply actions 5 recs
Ilya’s had this day circled on his calendar for a while now…but not for the reasons we might think.
You perhaps knew me better as "Your Nation's Capital." Same great commentary, now with 100% more transparency!
Vengeance for the self inflicted utter embarassment at the hands of Mike Green….
Washington Capitals 2009-10 = Quebec Nordiques 1994-95
--- D'ohboy
by MikeL-Pivonka on Nov 22, 2010 3:19 PM EST up reply actions
only way to redeem himself is to fight Semin
by vtcapsfan99 on Nov 22, 2010 3:21 PM EST up reply actions 2 recs
got your bongos ready?
Pledge Drive 2010-2011: SO KIDS CAN!! Help build a playground
by RedBirdie on Nov 22, 2010 3:25 PM EST up reply actions 3 recs
That image is pure brilliance.
Washington Capitals 2009-10 = Quebec Nordiques 1994-95
--- D'ohboy
by MikeL-Pivonka on Nov 22, 2010 3:27 PM EST up reply actions
“Open hands seem to work on Staal… Interesting…”
by DrinkingPartner on Nov 22, 2010 4:35 PM EST up reply actions 2 recs
“Hi, Mr. B, can the Alexes come out and play? I promise not to get into any more pairs figure skating exhibitions with Greenie.”
Pledge Drive 2010-2011: SO KIDS CAN!! Help build a playground
by RedBirdie on Nov 22, 2010 3:44 PM EST up reply actions 2 recs
That is sweet.
Alright, confess-how many goals are you going to make this year?
"I'm not going to tell!"
Well can you at least guarantee fifty?
"No way. I have a different objective. To win."
by capsyoungguns on Nov 22, 2010 4:50 PM EST up reply actions
It’s a little less cute after a game like that…
Atta dinnin stick a who!
by Gould Old Days on Nov 23, 2010 9:15 AM EST up reply actions
a happy anniversary of sorts: three years ago, Bruce was promoted to Washington as the interim head coach.
wow, three years ago today, we were watching a last place hockey team.
Pledge Drive 2010-2011: SO KIDS CAN!! Help build a playground
by RedBirdie on Nov 22, 2010 3:43 PM EST reply actions 1 recs
wow, three years ago today, we were watching a last place hockey team.
Hey, we’ll get to celebrate by doing that again tonight!
…oh, you meant watching OUR last place hockey team. Got it :D (and yes, technically I know the Devils are in second-to-last place…)
If anyone needs me, I'll be at Kettler.
by Becca H on Nov 22, 2010 3:46 PM EST up reply actions 1 recs
I’m still watching a last place hockey team, even if it’s not the Caps.
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 22, 2010 4:15 PM EST up reply actions
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