Tuesday Caps Clips: Stunned in the Swamp
by J.P. on Nov 23, 2010 6:31 AM EST
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Your savory breakfast links:
- Recaps and other assorted musings on last night's loss from us, Vogs, NHL.com (Rosen), WaPo (Carrera: blog, gamer), DCEx (McNally), Caps365 video (Boudreau, players), CSN Washington (Beninati), Frankovic, Peerless, OFB, RMNB, Puckhead, RLS, LIR, SB Nation DC, KOL and Hockey Independent.
- On last night's goalie shuffle. [CSN Washington (Masisak)]
- A look back on the first quarter of the season. [Inside Hockey, SB Nation DC, Box Seats]
- Yesterday was Bruce Boudreau's three-year anniversary behind the Caps' bench. [Dump 'n Chase, CI]
- Thoughts on the 24/7 preview. [D.C. Sports Bog, SB Nation DC]
- Gabby says Alexander Semin "was a work in progress last year" on the penalty kill, but "[n]ow he's a lot better at it." I didn't know you could do "better" than best. [ESPN (Burnside)]
- And here's another for the "Semin is enigmatic" file... [Too Many Men On The Site]
- Three for Three: Games 19-21. [RtR]
- Alex Ovechkin dancing - it just might get you through the day. [RMNB]
- Take a peek at Karl Alzner's crib. [FanShot]
- Blame... Pink? [Capitals Outsider]
- Checking in from Chocolatetown. [OFB]
- Bear Tracks! [LDN]
- Finally,happy 23rd - twenty-third - birthday to Nicklas Backstrom (honored with 23 pictures).
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I like the Box Seats article but I have a couple rebuttals. First, the sample size is too small; what would last year’s stats have looked like without the win streak? The Caps still haven’t found their game so it is likely a hot streak makes some of those numbers look better. I also think it is worth discussing the impact of having Poti on the shelf and Sloan on the ice. Team defensive numbers aren’t the end of the story. The biggest difference is trading away Shamo and Juice for Carlznerson. On that front I think we are clearly better.
Regarding the PK, I don’t think shots per minute is the end of the story as far as team performance. Passive PKs allow skilled teams to move the puck around and look for higher quality shots. A more aggressive PK can pressure teams into forcing shots from lower quality areas or more controlled situations. I don’t really know if that’s what is happening, but I think it’s a possibility worth discussing. I’ve been a big proponent of the aggressive kill,though, so maybe I’m just convincing myself.
That Too Many Men article is funny. While I agree with a lot of it, and it’s mostly factually accurate, I do think they are a bit more critical of Semin than he deserves. I also don’t see how they say that the Caps will low-ball Semin (a position I basically agree with) and then conclude they’ll keep him at 8 per. 8 per is certainly not a low ball and I don’t see why we sign him for that considering that nobody else would sign him to that absent a Conn Smythe.
Lockout talk makes me want to go out and choke an old lady - Elliotte Friedman
by Rob Parker on Nov 23, 2010 7:00 AM EST via mobile reply actions
With Poti on the shelf the Caps’ shots against numbers are still better than last year. Corsi% this season is .528, same as last year, but Fenwick% jumped from .515 to .524 (so the Caps are getting more shots through proportionally and/or blocking more shots proportionally).
The sample is definitely too small, but since what I’ve seen of the team pretty much agrees (minus the PK part—it should be noted the Caps got very below average PK goaltending last year in terms of sv%, though).
by red army line on Nov 23, 2010 7:22 AM EST up reply actions
Regarding PK:
As indicated by the table, both generating shots on the powerplay and preventing shots on the penalty kill appear to be largely ability driven measures. The same applies to drawing more powerplays than the opposition.
Not surprisingly, both PP S% and PK SV% are less ability driven than the other three variables. It’s worth noting that PK SV% appears to be more reliable than PP S%. I presume that this can be attributed to the influence of the goaltender on PK SV%.
You’re probably right though, there are too many things going on in any given season to really draw conclusions. I think the percentage is still the best measure at this point.
by red army line on Nov 23, 2010 7:31 AM EST up reply actions
If Corsi and Fenwick are proxies for puck possession then those numbers are a little surprising. This team doesn’t seem like it controls the puck as well as it has in the past. Maybe they are, but the stars just aren’t as bright so far. It’s a little surprising that we look as god as last year by those metrics.
Lockout talk makes me want to go out and choke an old lady - Elliotte Friedman
Don’t forget that there are score effects — we spent a lot of time watching the Caps with the lead last season, and those teams tend to outcorsi the opposition. I’m not sure if RAL is using tied Corsi/Fenwick or simply totals.
"Essentially, all models are wrong, but some are useful" George E.P. Box
by Knee high to a duck on Nov 23, 2010 8:27 PM EST up reply actions
I don’t have the breakdown by score this year, so that’s in total.
by red army line on Nov 24, 2010 7:35 AM EST up reply actions
Damn, you’re up early.
"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 23, 2010 7:29 AM EST up reply actions
I also think it is worth discussing the impact of having Poti on the shelf and Sloan on the ice.
To expand upon that thought, not only is it “Poti for Sloan” which is an obvious and incredibly significant upgrade, but it impacts the entire blueline – it’s less minutes for an over-worked Mike Green, fewer tough minutes for guys who may not be well-suited to take them now, and it’s veteran leadership. As amorphous as you might think that last point is, consider that the Caps were without their two oldest players for last night’s stinker and without Poti in third-period breakdowns against TOR and BOS. Maybe he helps to settle the blueline in those games. Maybe not.
I certainly don’t mean to imply that Tom Poti is a cure-all for the blueline. But yeah, they miss him.
And holy crap, you’re up early.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
While Red Line’s “Three for Three” article today quoted the following on Sloan:
Really, Tom Poti’s injury is the only reason Sloan is seeing player time right now.
But now we’ll likely be seeing Fahey who’s worse than Sloan. And, sad to say, he’ll be our 5th defenseman.
Rocking the Red for the Caps since 1975. Rocking the Red on additional fronts as well.
If nothing else, last night illustrates the need to pump the brakes and wait for an actual morning session or transaction move before making roster presumptions.
"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 23, 2010 7:46 AM EST up reply actions
Or am I up late?
Driving to NY for a networking lunch at 11:30.
Lockout talk makes me want to go out and choke an old lady - Elliotte Friedman
by Rob Parker on Nov 23, 2010 7:54 AM EST via mobile up reply actions
And I agree that the consequences of losing Poti are far reaching. The silver lining might be Carlznerson playing together and getting important minutes.
Lockout talk makes me want to go out and choke an old lady - Elliotte Friedman
by Rob Parker on Nov 23, 2010 8:49 AM EST via mobile up reply actions
It’s perhaps bad form to speak ill of the injured, but on the second goal I just yelled “What the hell, Sloan?” He waited so long to commit that the only think he could reasonably do is protect the pass/backdoor/wraparound. And then, after it was too late, he dove after the puck on the near side and took out Holtby instead.
Wraparound goals should be hard, but they’re pretty damned easy when the goalie’s in a heap under your defenseman on the other side of the net. Worst. Defensive. Play. Of. The. Year.
He’s not getting better. He doesn’t belong in the NHL.
Atta dinnin stick a who!
by Gould Old Days on Nov 23, 2010 8:54 AM EST up reply actions
That’s all true, but Holtby had no business getting about 5 feet out of the crease like that.
I don’t have much tolerance for stupid. Or cheese on food that doesn’t need it. -duck
by twistedlogic on Nov 23, 2010 8:56 AM EST up reply actions
I don’t know goaltending very well, but I’d imagine as the goalie it’s hard to decide how to play a rush when your defensemen are not giving clear signals (because they themselves have no idea how they’re going to play it).
He came out to challenge the shooter because Sloan was so far over. Maybe he came out to challenge too far, but it seemed pretty clear to me that he was going to have to stop a first shot (which would have been tough to get off because Erskine was on Arnott, albeit from a bad angle). In any case, he never got the chance to recover and dive across the net because 89 was on top of him.
Atta dinnin stick a who!
by Gould Old Days on Nov 23, 2010 9:01 AM EST up reply actions
I don’t disagree, but I do think he (Sloan) would be well-served by getting a game or two off to watch from the press box. It’d likely refocus him a bit.
At his best, he’s a marginally serviceable player. At his worst, he’s what he’s been the last three games.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
I certainly don’t mean to imply that Tom Poti is a cure-all for the blueline. But yeah, they miss him.
And this is where you really have to question McPhee. Having one or two defensemen out injured is a normal situation in the NHL — every team goes through that at least once a season. Where is the depth?
Atta dinnin stick a who!
by Gould Old Days on Nov 23, 2010 10:15 AM EST up reply actions
Tyler Sloan is the depth, scary enough.
I tweet far too much. Follow me!
Pleasure and pain, though directly opposite are contrived to be constant companions.
Yep. Broken record.
The only defense (no pun intended) here is that GMGM wanted to see what he had – mostly re: are Carlson and Alzner ready for prime time – before deciding if he needed a top-4 D or a third-pairing guy. Not that you can have too many of the former, but they obviously cost more.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
What kills me, though, is that this is the best case scenario with those two. Carlson and Alzner can be trusted to play 20 minutes (or 27). That wasn’t necessarily a given at the beginning of the season.
Where would the Caps be if one of them had started the season with a developmental setback?
Atta dinnin stick a who!
by Gould Old Days on Nov 23, 2010 11:19 AM EST up reply actions
Yup. I think I’ve probably written it 20 times here – there’s an awful lot of “hope” in that roster: that Carlson and Alzner progress, that they stay healthy, etc., and “hope” ain’t a plan.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
: that Green, Poti and Erskine stay healthy
: that Flash suddenly becomes a center
: that Mackan is ready for the NHL at 19/20
: that two young goaltenders with injury histories can be #1A and #1B
Lots of hope and risk. I’ll give GMGM one thing – he’s ballsy.
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 was just referring to the D, but obviously your points are valid. And I don’t think it’s ballsy – I think it’s taking stock of what you have before making moves. If anything, it’s the opposite of ballsy – it’s ultra-conservative.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
Yeah, but he’s gotta know that, barring a Semin trade, he only has enough cap room to address two of those three/four/five problems.
Let’s say the dice didn’t come up his way and:
Alzner and/or Carlson needed some time in Hershey;
Green and/or Poti went out with injury for a month or two;
Flash flamed out at #2C;
Johansson had to go back to Sweden; and
Neuvy and/or Varly got injured.
(Oddly enough, it looks like we’ve taken on about 3/4 of those things and it’s started to get a little ugly on the ice.)
Anyhow, the point is that his “hedge” isn’t big enough. The Caps don’t have enough cap room to acquire a good defenseman or two, a good #2C and a veteran backup keeper, unless they wait until the deadline and even then it would be tight and would likely require salary going back the other way. I think a conservative play would have been to sign a couple better depth defensemen for Hershey, and maybe a backup slightly better than Sabourin.
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.
You’re up early!
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 23, 2010 7:37 AM EST up reply actions
I’m hearing reports that you’re up early! My money is on you not having gone to bed though.
I tweet far too much. Follow me!
Pleasure and pain, though directly opposite are contrived to be constant companions.
by Ovechwin on Nov 23, 2010 7:40 AM EST up reply actions 2 recs
F&B, I was pretty sure the Rink crowd would call “low sample size” out! I had a disclaimer in the Box Seats article about it but it was left lying on the virtual copy room floor as the post was getting too long.
I really don’t know what to make of the PK. Maybe they are allowing a higher number of lower quality shots? or maybe they really are getting bailed out by goaltending? or both? It’s unclear at this point because scoring chance stats weren’t logged last year. (Or at least they’re not publicly available to amateurs like me.) In the future I would run this analysis based on scoring chances allowed instead of shots allowed since that gives a better indication of shot quality. But we’ll have to wait until next season to perform a year-over-year comparison of PK performance using scoring chances.
The "Other" Box Seats Blogger
I think Jake Taylor needs to sit down with our team
… and give us a little speech.
I liked you so much better when you were just aballplayerhockey player. If you wanna be an interior decorator now that’s none of my business. But some of us still need this team. Now you listen to me! This is my last shot at a winner and for some of the younger guys it could be their only shot. I don’t know what happened to you. But if you ever, ever tank another play like you did today, I’m gonna cut your nuts off and stuff em down your fuckin throat!
by Brainumbc on Nov 23, 2010 7:38 AM EST reply actions 3 recs
Or time for my kids’ old swim coach to come talk to them and say “That was garbage” which is what he used to say when the whole practice group was looking particularly bad.
Rocking the Red for the Caps since 1975. Rocking the Red on additional fronts as well.
I’m trying to decide if Bruce should do that, the Major League 2 speeches, or the speech from Cool Runnings.
I would go with the “lollygagging” speech from Bull Durham myself.
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 23, 2010 7:49 AM EST up reply actions
The mind is a strange thing, men. We must begin by asking it…
…“What is losing?”
Losing is a disease…
…as contagious as polio.
Losing is a disease…
…as contagious as syphilis.
Losing is a disease…
…as contagious as bubonic plague…
… attacking one…
… but infecting all.
But curable.
Now, I want you to imagine…
…you are on a ship at sea…
…gently rocking.
Gently rocking.
Gently rocking.
Gently rocking.
If you've read this far...seek help.
Losing is bearable only when it’s done right.
RMNB sums up perfectly why I could take the Flyers loss in stride but feel inordinately cranky ’bout the two blowout losses. Losing streaks are not acceptable.
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."
Really? Dropping three games in November – two of which were with the #3 goalie in net – is “not acceptable?”
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
Apparently, just being tied for first overall in the league just isn’t good enough.
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 23, 2010 8:17 AM EST up reply actions
Sorry for the negativity. I meant the way they lost. The blowouts are hard. I thoroughly enjoyed the Flyers game. I am normally a positive person but have been feeling cranky recently, which skews my perspective.
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 23, 2010 8:55 AM EST up reply actions
I mean, it bothers me too, because everything has been shitting the bed around me lately, but I’m just trying to keep it in perspective that it’s only November.
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 23, 2010 9:00 AM EST up reply actions
As you say “shit happens.” You’re right we all need to keep the losses in perspective. The guys will just have to regroup, listen to BB, and regain their discipline.
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 23, 2010 9:20 AM EST up reply actions
Even the best teams have their downs from time to time. And it’s only November, as mentioned above.
"I speak in .gifs, snappy retorts and curse words."
by Steck It Out on Nov 23, 2010 9:21 AM EST up reply actions
Sorry—as YOU say: “shit happens.” I laughed when I read that. So true.
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 23, 2010 9:23 AM EST up reply actions
Of course it’s not. We were first by a landslide last year and it didn’t help much. At some point the “how” really is the issue with this team.
Lockout talk makes me want to go out and choke an old lady - Elliotte Friedman
by Rob Parker on Nov 23, 2010 9:59 AM EST via mobile up reply actions
The fact that they appear to have learned nothing from the Montreal series has to be a little concerning, no?
I don’t think we can really know what they did or didn’t learn from Montreal until April.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
by J.P. on Nov 23, 2010 10:08 AM EST up reply actions 1 recs
Thank you.
It’s November, people.
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 23, 2010 10:09 AM EST up reply actions
So, the fact that:
A) the team looked ugly in its wins;
B) the team looks pretty much the same as last year;
C) there are still holes in the roster big enough to drive a truck, or Jason Arnott, or Dustin Byfuglien through;
D) in games against teams that look like serious playoff contenders, the Caps are now under .500;
E) the cornerstone of the franchise looks disinterested; and
F) these last few games look a hell of a lot like regression rearing its ugly head to reveal what we kind of suspected about this team. . .
. . . you’re unconcerned? Sorry but the, “it’s November” argument isn’t doing it for me anymore. This November, the team has the largely same flaws as last November, or last April, or the November before it, or the April before that. The date is irrelevant.
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 23, 2010 10:16 AM EST up reply actions 2 recs
It has EVERYTHING to do with the date. If it were March or April, yeah I’d be concerned.
But it’s NOVEMBER. 22 freaking games. It’s not time to hit the panic button yet.
Hell, I’d be more concerned if they were blowing people out 6-0 every night. I want them playing their best hockey in March or April, not in November.
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 23, 2010 10:19 AM EST up reply actions
It has EVERYTHING to do with the date.
Not when the flaws are seemingly inherent to the roster construction and system being implemented on the ice. Not when the flaws displayed now are the same ones the team had last year, and the year before that, and the year before that. At what point do you simply acknowledge reality – the team is flawed.
Sure, we can all sit back and hope that some Deus ex Machina (or is it Mackana?) drops a #2C and a couple depth defensemen in our lap and that all the players simultaneously focus and start playing BB’s system perfectly and that all this culminates from April through June, but after two years of watching this team waste playoff opportunities after looking just like this in the regular season, the burden of proof is on them at this point.
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.
It seems the same “issues” complained about at Game #10 are still present at #20. It’s still early – the season is a long one. It’s easy to be impatient – especially given the expectations for this team.
Tell your girlfriend to stop texting me.
How many teams have fixed their issues (that are not personnel) like we’re hoping the Caps will? Only one that comes to my mind are the 08-09 Pens with the coaching change.
by red army line on Nov 23, 2010 11:05 AM EST up reply actions
Only one that comes to my mind are the 08-09 Pens with the coaching change.
My concern is that the Caps won’t be bad enough to merit a coaching change. I feel like I’m watching the Titanic steer into the iceberg in slow motion.
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 23, 2010 11:13 AM EST up reply actions 1 recs
Given past history, it’s really hard to envision this team changing horses midstream (or pants mid-shit, for those who prefer more disgusting visuals).
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
It ain’t gonna happen. Between Leonsis constantly preaching the fact that the entire organization utilizes the same system and the fact that this team is too talented to ever lose enough regular season games in a short period of time, BB is here to stay.
And we’re right back to my Titanic metaphor.
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 think that’s a little overly dramatic. I mean, worst case scenario, they bow out early, change coaches and systems and still come back with AO, Nick, Green, Carlson, Neuvirth, etc.
Maybe Bruce, Semin, Laich and others are gone. Maybe even GMGM (though I highly doubt it). But even in the doomsday scenario for this year, they’ll have another bite at the apple next year and the year after that and so on.
Wait… did I just essentially write “Wait ’til next year”?
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
Yuuuuuuuup
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 23, 2010 11:30 AM EST up reply actions 3 recs
All this Titanic talk makes me think of the super blimp filled with Helium, which will kill us all.
“Sorry I didn’t go to space camp, Lana!”
"Inglewood Jack! Inglewood Jack!" - Coach Jules
by Alz Well That Ends Well on Nov 23, 2010 2:13 PM EST up reply actions 2 recs
Nice. :)
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.
If this were a lacrosse blog instead of a hockey blog, we’d have quotes for the next hundred years.
Also, it wouldn’t exist.
"Inglewood Jack! Inglewood Jack!" - Coach Jules
by Alz Well That Ends Well on Nov 23, 2010 2:33 PM EST up reply actions
We still have quotes for hundreds of years.
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 23, 2010 2:53 PM EST up reply actions
We’re like. . . the Pele of quotes.
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 23, 2010 3:44 PM EST up reply actions 1 recs
It’s not a lacrosse blog, but it’s a hockey blog. Those skills are universal.
Release the Mackan!
by Killer_Carlson on Nov 23, 2010 11:50 PM EST up reply actions 2 recs
they’ll have another bite at the apple next year and the year after that and so on.
At what point do we come to the realization that we might be the late 90s/early 00s Sens v. 2.0? It’s a bit early for that, to be sure, but it’s a scenario I can see playing out all too easily.
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.
Anyhow, we’ve had this conversation to death thus far this year. I’m going to drop it because, like you say, not much can be done right now. It doesn’t make me feel any calmer or happier about the situation, but it is what it is.
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.
First 21 games
Next 62 games
(I accidentally counted the 21st game twice)
I think you could make a good case they got worse at ES. Their PK might have gotten better, though. I’m not really sure what that coaching change did—I don’t doubt with that team Stevens could have taken ’em to the SCF as well.
They were out of the playoff picture when they fired Stevens and still almost were on the last day of the season. Their goaltending got hot in the playoffs and they rode their top-4 D to the SCF. At the very least that last bit makes me hopeful—looks to me like the Caps have 5 D capable of 20+ minutes a night and at least 1, maybe 2, of 25 (depending on how many PPs the Caps get).
by red army line on Nov 23, 2010 11:48 AM EST up reply actions
Those numbers are a bit misleading. After Laviolette took over, they went 3-10-1 in his first 14 games. They finished the year 27-14-2. The Flyers bought into his system — although it took a while to do it — but once they did, they played extremely well.
IIRC the Flyers had that terrible record, then got hot, then limped into the playoffs at the end. Two bad stretches sandwiched a good one.
by red army line on Nov 23, 2010 12:00 PM EST up reply actions
I’m not sure A), D) or E) are “largely the same flaws” as they’ve had in the past. Neither is C), to an extent.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
A) how many times last year did a recap say something akin to, “the Caps didn’t look great tonight, but they did enough to get the win,” or “they don’t ask how, they ask how many?” It has been pretty much the same this year.
D) True, but if anything, this is even more disconcerting – the Caps at least looked like they could “turn it on” last year – this year they just lose.
E) Again, true, but it’s more of a pile-on effect for me. In other words, the team looks like the same flawed roster/system as they did before, just now with less C/D depth and “disinterested Ovie.” Hence why I’m so concerned despite the fact that it’s November.
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.
How much could your concerns have really been allayed at this point, though? If everything was going along swimmingly, wouldn’t that be somewhat tempered by the fact that “it’s only November – they can’t prove anything until April”?
Of course it’d be more comforting if we were all just waiting for that shoe to drop, rather than wondering how they’re going to fix what’s never been fixed before, but there’s a long way before the only true measure of improvement can be gauged, and a lot can change between now and then, including people.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
I would feel a lot more confident if I could look and say “hey, they’re not getting the results, but the underlying numbers are there,” like in 08-09 (well, if I were that enamored with Corsi then). This season so far, it’s like “hey, they’re getting the results, even if the underlying numbers aren’t quite there yet.” That’s a recipe for failure just like last season.
by red army line on Nov 23, 2010 11:06 AM EST up reply actions
How much could your concerns have really been allayed at this point, though?
If the Carolina game were the rule and not the exception, I suppose. If the early returns on the PK had proven less ephemeral. If the breakout looked like it did in the first period vs. Buffalo for more than 1 period out of 3. If our offseason plan for filling the #2C void was as little better than, “hey Flash played C in juniors!” If GMGM had looked at Poti, Green and Erskine and said, “you know what – these guys miss at least 10 games a season, maybe I should acquire a bit of depth at D.”
Like a dog that’s been beat, I’ll continue to be a bit gun-shy with this team, but the systems stuff in particular gets me, because that’s been the continual flaw that I’ve seen since BB took over. He’s got a difficult, aggressive system and I’m not sure he’s got the players to execute it.
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 23, 2010 11:12 AM EST up reply actions 1 recs
Honestly, AO looked far more invested last night than I’ve seen him look over the past four or five games. He was finishing checks, blowing up guys at both blue lines, and attempting more shots (and getting more on net). Other than some lazy defense (and I want to scream at him every time he stands up in the defensive zone and doesn’t move his feet) and a bad penalty, it was probably one of his better games over the last couple of weeks.
He looked invested but undisciplined. I don’t think he helped his linemates much, going out of position to hit a guy or driving the middle and drawing four defenders with nobody to pass to
Atta dinnin stick a who!
by Gould Old Days on Nov 23, 2010 11:21 AM EST up reply actions
I don’t think he helped his linemates much
In this area AO has grown very little.
Tell your girlfriend to stop texting me.
I know he has a lot of assists this year, I know, but he plays selfishly more than not.
Tell your girlfriend to stop texting me.
I couldn’t disagree more. In fact, there are times that he passes but should be shooting.
by wickedwitch on Nov 23, 2010 11:41 AM EST up reply actions 2 recs
I hate AO when he looks to pass so much. There is some element of chicken or egg here—does he not gets shots because he doesn’t have chances, or doesn’t have chances because he’s not looking to shoot—but I think if he looks to create his own shots a bit more he’ll be a lot better.
(/captain obvious)
by red army line on Nov 23, 2010 11:50 AM EST up reply actions
I’ve been contemplating this too. As the games go by, I increasingly feel that he is passing up chances to shoot. He was accused a lot in previous years for “selfishly” shooting the puck instead of passing to his teammates and now I think he’s erring in the other direction. One of his primary purposes is to score or generate scoring chances. If he’s passing more, then he is shooting less. If he is shooting less, then he is scoring less. If he his shooting less then there are fewer rebounds for teammates to cash in on. To make up for this deficit, other players will have to increase their scoring and/or all players will have to limit the other team’s scoring chances.
(Since I’m not much of a numbers person, I haven’t looked at the numbers. I’m just basing this on my impressions.)
(Yes, I know about the avatar hounding - just pretend mine is invisible.)
Puck the Media? Does he need 52’s psychologist?
by red army line on Nov 23, 2010 12:05 PM EST up reply actions
With regards to point C.. I’m not panicking yet… when the holes are big enough for Kyle Wellwood or Zdeno Chara to go through sideways.. then it’s panic time.
Washington Capitals 2009-10 = Quebec Nordiques 1994-95
--- D'ohboy
by MikeL-Pivonka on Nov 23, 2010 10:23 AM EST up reply actions
Related:
Chara’s ’stache is awesome.
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 23, 2010 10:25 AM EST up reply actions
Indeed it is…. He looks more evil than he usually does.
Of course off the rink, he’s one of the really good guys in this sport. Wish the Caps could have landed him when he was a free agent a few years ago (the Caps were his second choice behind Boston…)
Washington Capitals 2009-10 = Quebec Nordiques 1994-95
--- D'ohboy
by MikeL-Pivonka on Nov 23, 2010 12:10 PM EST up reply actions
I’m not panicking. This is a rational assessment of this team based on observations collected over the past several years. As constructed, the roster is flawed. Far too much money and talent is invested on the wings. There isn’t enough depth down the middle. The system played by the team allows far too many chances 5v5 and is prone to long stretches of ineffectual play because, if not played EXACTLY, the system breaks down quite easily. The PK, despite some early luck, is now back where it belongs at around 80%, with David Steckel skating lazy circles like a hawk in a thermal.
Even if GMGM can manage to fix the roster holes at #2C and 4/5/6 D, the second problem remains. I don’t think it’s totally impossible to win the Cup with BB’s system, but I think that it requires players who are 100% focused and 100% disciplined within the system. Can you really look at Ovie, Semin, and Green and say that they’re 100% focused and disciplined within the system?
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.
Sadly, yeah. I don’t think this group of players is ever going to play BB’s system tightly enough for it to work (and I’m increasingly thinking it might never work in the playoffs), and it would require more than just a new #2C, it would also require a couple new defensemen.
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.
Anyhow, I’ll quit being Mr. Pessimist.
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 don’t know. Did anyone think that the Flyers would be willing to play Laviolette’s system? I sure didn’t after the way they skated through his first few games behind the bench.
There’s a big difference between the Flyers’ roster and star players and our roster and star players.
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.
Look at the team Laviolette won with in Carolina. A deep roster filled with relatively similar offensive players, including a couple really good two-way centermen.
The Flyers are deep down the middle and I get the feeling that, though I may loathe them with a passion, guys like Richards and Hartnell would gladly slash their own mother in the neck for a chance to win the Cup. I don’t get that same feeling out of many Caps players, perhaps outside of Brooks.
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.
To put it ever so frankly: shit happens.
"I'm not great at farewells, so, uh... that'll do, pig."
by Steck It Out on Nov 23, 2010 8:12 AM EST up reply actions 1 recs
But then you flush
…and it goes away. It hasn’t gone away yet…
Washington Capitals 2009-10 = Quebec Nordiques 1994-95
--- D'ohboy
by MikeL-Pivonka on Nov 23, 2010 10:24 AM EST up reply actions
Haha…it only took three comments on Katie’s wrap up entry on CI for the first “Fire BB” comment of the season.
CI is never not entertaining.
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 23, 2010 8:19 AM EST reply actions
Goalie A: 203 minutes, 2-2-1, 3.84, .845
Goalie B: first 200 minutes, 0-3-0, 6.00, .821
Any guesses?
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
Both Holtby?
"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 23, 2010 8:39 AM EST up reply actions
Oof. I fucking swung and missed hard. To quote Maeby “Let’s take a moment and realize how ridiculous that was.”
"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 23, 2010 8:43 AM EST up reply actions
Marry me!
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 23, 2010 8:48 AM EST up reply actions
Goalie A: Holtby
Goalie B: The goaltender from Penn State that OFB loves
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 23, 2010 8:40 AM EST up reply actions
Good guesses, but A is Holtby, B is Kolzig (who was 0-5-0/4.31/.852 through his first 348 NHL minutes).
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
But Kolzig played in teh firewagon hockey era!!!!!
Seriously, it was repulsive to watch, like most people I’m sure nearly vomited after that 2nd goal, which looked every bit what it was: a clusterfuck orchestrated by a struggling #3 goalie and a defenseman who can’t think on his feet.
But I can take it – for now. I am concerned about defensive depth for the playoffs, though.
I’m guessing the Caps weren’t nearly as good of a team in Kolzig’s first games. He was about Holtby’s age then, wasn’t he?
"It's always good to have vikings."
He got a couple of starts at 19 and then the next lot came at 23.
And no, none of those teams was a Presidents’ winner.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
Still gives me hope for my new favorite goalie. I am not sure what it is about the kid. But I really like him. I am not saying he is even close to being truly NHL ready….but I love his fire…time will tell, I suppose.
I like Laich, but I <3 Green
by RockinRed4Life on Nov 23, 2010 11:34 AM EST up reply actions
“We’re a good team with a lot of good players but we seem to be playing too relaxed, like it’s going to come to us too easy,” Karl Alzner said. “We’ve had so much success over the last couple years and have always been winning. We’re having a tough time. . . . It’s only three games but still there’s been parts leaking into the game throughout the whole season. It’s something we’ve got to stop right away.” – Karl Alzner from Katie’s gamer.
How many times have we heard this, or something similar this year? “We play too relaxed…we let up…we can’t get going…” It’s getting old. And it is just three games lately, but there were plenty of games early on where the same could be said. In those games, they were fortunate to have solid goaltending to keep them in games.
They knew they were going into a mausoleum with less energy than the average septuagenarian shuffleboard match. And yet they come out flat again. You would think they would have learned from playing in Atlanta, but apparantly not.
Yes, games in November don’t win or lose a Cup, but the habits developed now can carry forward throughout the year. Haven’t we learned this year over year?
Yes, #3 goalie in net makes a difference, but he doesn’t play offense, does he? How does this team get shut out in 2 out of three games against teams with GAA’s over 3? One of those game against the team’s number 2 goalie.
Not that it matters much now, but Friday’s game could result in the Caps losing hold of first place in the Southeast. Maybe that lights a fire under this team.
Just trying to capture the spirit of the thing...
That’s a great quote and it’s real frustrating that it has to come from a guy that’s essentially a rookie. I think Karl should be Captain.
Lockout talk makes me want to go out and choke an old lady - Elliotte Friedman
by Rob Parker on Nov 23, 2010 8:02 PM EST up reply actions 1 recs
I watch the Caps fail to respect teams they obviously consider inferior, and I think to myself that this team...
Atta dinnin stick a who!
by Gould Old Days on Nov 23, 2010 8:43 AM EST reply actions 8 recs
I don’t like that this is rec’d
~~~ R0cK D@ R3D ~~~
by Chaz-Capapalooza on Nov 23, 2010 1:48 PM EST up reply actions
Of interest (to me, anyway), was Corey’s question at the end of the Boudreau scrum, followed by this tweet from him:
Many ppl have asked me what “that” was from my Q to BB last night. Sorry for not responding – a story about “that” is coming soon on CSN.
So what’s “that”? I think Becca nailed it:
I’d love to be a fly on the wall when Bruce chews out Ovi and Semin as I’m guessing will happen after this (~0:47 mark)
Stay tuned, as they say.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
John Carlson - Glory follows him.
Six Beers Too Many Fantasy Team - BizNasty's Hobo Rodeo
by boutros23 on Nov 23, 2010 9:01 AM EST up reply actions 1 recs
I’m not sure I’ve ever seen that look on Bruce’s face before (at least not after a game – seen it during games before), both during the laughter and conversation in Russian and after Corey asked his question. Scary.
Not that I blame him if I guessed right, btw. I don’t mind if they go out drinking afterward or do whatever they do on their own time after a loss…but 5 minutes after leaving the ice in a 5-0 game, you’re laughing and joking around with a guy from the other team, and right near your locker room? Not okay.
If anyone needs me, I'll be at Kettler.
Definitely not ok, especially since per Corey, Kovy and the Alexs caught up during the pregame skate. How much catching up is really required? Were they exchanging Thanksgiving receipes?
I don’t expect Ovi to do the Eeyore suffle to the bus, but how about an inkling that you are not satisfied with the way this game turned out. If for no other reason than to show management and the team you captain that you care.
Just trying to capture the spirit of the thing...
by dcsportsfan1 on Nov 23, 2010 9:13 AM EST up reply actions
I thought that was a good pull. I hadn’t really been listening to the background noise until Corey asked the question, and he did that right after there was what had the sound of being construction-type noise in the background. So I didn’t/couldn’t put two and two together. Also, it was late and I was tired.
"It's always good to have vikings."
panic!
Boudreau has lost his players! It’s over! This team is done! Put a fork in ’em!
In all seriousness, this is a slump and Ovechkin knows as much as the next person that the regular season is fairly meaningless to this team. Does it deserve an ass whooping in practice? Sure. Is it as big a deal as people are making it out to be? Doubt it. Nothing that can’t be corrected.
Ovechkin knows as much as the next person that the regular season is fairly meaningless to this team
I think that’s one issue. If the players think the regular season is meaningless, well, I hope for their sake they can ramp up their games 200% come April. It’s easier to go from your A- game to A+ game than from B to A+, I’d think.
Secondly, different players probably take losses differently. That being said, AO in the past has been hit harder by losses. Maybe this is all part of some greater change in mentality (which I’m not liking so far).
by red army line on Nov 23, 2010 9:29 AM EST up reply actions
I don’t think this has to do with his performance on the ice but rather how he acts in the arena immediately after a bad loss, within earshot of the coach, the media, the GM and the owner. Phenomenally stupid and disrespectful, if you ask me. Like I said, I have no issue with guys catching up and not being sad-sack, morose, pitiful creatures for days after a bad loss – but at least get out of the arena, or if you have to be in the arena keep it low-key.
If anyone needs me, I'll be at Kettler.
If there was any question about the legitimacy of Corey’s inquiry, that was out the window with Bruce’s response. He could’ve said, “Y’know, it’s a long season and guys catch up with friends on the road all the time after games and obviously someone will have lost every time. Believe me, Alex takes these losses as hard as anyone. It’s a non-issue.”
Of course, he didn’t say that. His answer made it clear that he wasn’t okay with it.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
Just saw this.
cmasisak22 Many ppl have asked me what “that” was from my Q to BB last night. Sorry for not responding – a story about “that” is coming soon on CSN.
Ought to be interesting.
"It's always good to have vikings."
The article is already up.
"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 23, 2010 9:46 AM EST up reply actions
And here it is.
http://www.csnwashington.com/11/23/10/Was-Ovechkin-Out-Of-Line-Monday/landing.html?blockID=359000&feedID=287
"It's always good to have vikings."
I’m hearing…
"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 23, 2010 9:46 AM EST up reply actions
Beat me to it.
I’m hearing that BP is hearing that…
If anyone needs me, I'll be at Kettler.
by Becca H on Nov 23, 2010 9:46 AM EST up reply actions 1 recs
Hey, I’m behind because I went to the dentist this morning. If everyone else knew it was there, I would have expected to see it linked already. ;-)
I would not have wanted to be on the bus to the airport or the plane last night. I’m thinking a public apology might be forthcoming from Ovechkin, having now been called out in the press.
"It's always good to have vikings."
I’m alternately thanking God the question was asked of BB and wondering what would have happened if it wasn’t.
"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 23, 2010 9:52 AM EST up reply actions
Puck Daddy chimes in, too.
http://sports.yahoo.com/nhl/blog/puck_daddy/post/Did-Ovechkin-Semin-cross-line-with-postgame-Kov?urn=nhl-288487
"It's always good to have vikings."
Can’t wait to read the measured, thoughtful and useful comments that show up there. Ooof.
Just trying to capture the spirit of the thing...
by dcsportsfan1 on Nov 23, 2010 9:57 AM EST up reply actions
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 23, 2010 9:48 AM EST up reply actions
Ooo great. Can somebody link it when the article is up?
I don’t have much tolerance for stupid. Or cheese on food that doesn’t need it. -duck
by twistedlogic on Nov 23, 2010 9:49 AM EST up reply actions 4 recs
Chicago lost three consecutive games in the regular season three times last season, but not four.
Two seasons ago, Pittsburgh had a five-game losing streak in the regular season, but the coach of that team ultimately lost his job. The Penguins did not lose three in a row after that and lost consecutive games only twice.
Three seasons ago the Red Wings lost 10 of 11 to close out February, but lost consecutive games only once after that.
The year before that Anaheim lost four in a row once, but after February 23rd went 13-3-4.
The point is that the notion of “it’s only the playoffs that matter” gets more stale as time passes by. It is November, but it is a lot harder to eliminate bad habits than it is to take them up. And there are a lot of bad habits creeping in with this team in terms of both performance and attitude.
They have allowed 38 goals in 11 games (3.45/game) this month. Only Edmonton has a worse number for the season. This is not a matter of a goalie who should be playing in Hershey instead of taking one for the team last night. It is a product of the entire roster taking nights off and a situation on the roster concerning defensemen that is alarming. If you think they can continue that kind of defense and goaltending and just turn it on when it matters after, say, the trading deadline, well, good luck with that.
If you've read this far...seek help.
by ThePeerless on Nov 23, 2010 9:39 AM EST up reply actions 4 recs
Agreed on all counts, but the sense of urgency to turn it around and re-focus doesn’t come without an event or two like last night. There’s certainly a good chance that we look back that this one as a key moment in the season.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
I sure hope for the right reasons, that it was a turn-around moment. Regular season does matter in how they play, with good habits honed, and facing down teams of different strengths and talents and systems. How often have we lost against reputed bad teams? The Caps don’t seem to learn that they are a challenge to those teams, especially after the drubbing we gave NJ.
I don’t think so – it’s not a trend or a concern with just one data point.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
What in the Caps past, either recent or historically, leads you to say there’s a “good chance”?
Just asking…
If you are driving in the left hand lane and you are not passing, you are a #$@&$
Their bag skate after Buffalo two seasons ago.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
Respectfully disagree that a bad game and a bag skate from a game two years ago has any bearing on this team right now.
Different players, different attitudes from the same players, different hierarchy, different relationship with the coach, for starters.
If you are driving in the left hand lane and you are not passing, you are a #$@&$
A bag skate’s a bag skate – players know why they’re doing it and usually coaches don’t pull it out as a “weapon” unless they’re really pissed. It’s not a guarantee but most teams come out the other side focused but having gotten the message.
If anyone needs me, I'll be at Kettler.
Some Bag Skate History
Luke Decock News & Observer (Raleigh, North Carolina) (Oct. 9) "Canes fighting mad": When Laviolette’s postgame comments Saturday included the phrase "we’re kidding ourselves," the Hurricanes didn’t need a magnifying glass to read between the lines.…It couldn’t have been any clearer if the ice had been painted black Sunday: Good morning. This is your wake-up call for the season. Sunday’s so-called "bag skate," as it’s known in hockey parlance, now takes a place in recent Hurricanes history with the December 2001 practice behind closed doors at the RecZone that helped turn the Canes’ season around on their way to the Stanley Cup finals and the one in Los Angeles in February 2003 that helped that season spiral out of control when Craig MacDonald collapsed and Jeff O’Neill left the ice screaming curses at then-coach Paul Maurice.
more here: http://www.doubletongued.org/index.php/dictionary/bag_skate/
I poured spot remover on my dog. Now he's gone.
by Rather Bengt on Nov 23, 2010 1:17 PM EST up reply actions
You asked for something from the past, recent or historical. That came to mind as somewhere in between. Didn’t think that you were just asking so you could tell me why my answer is invalid.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
by J.P. on Nov 23, 2010 2:08 PM EST up reply actions 1 recs
so defend your position instead of getting snarky because I don’t agree that a bag skate from two years ago means that the present team has a “good chance” of bouncing back.
Of course I didn’t ask a question just to discount what you would say. amof, I gave my reasons and tried to be polite about it.
If you are driving in the left hand lane and you are not passing, you are a #$@&$
I would love to be at practice today. Much as I realize that the Caps need to get in a good practice going over systems and responsibilities, there is the perverse image of an ice sheet with no pucks and no nets in my head. Just Bruce out there with a whistle.
If you've read this far...seek help.
Again……..Again………Again……
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 23, 2010 9:55 AM EST up reply actions
And really, this is about Bruce now, isn’t it? I mean, surely the guys on the ice are ultimately responsible for how they play, but isn’t this moment a test of Bruce’s ability to get them to refocused?
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
Yup. They drop another turd like this in Carolina (and/or at home v Tampa) and I think we may have to really wonder about BB’s motivational abilities and the C on 8’s chest.
Just trying to capture the spirit of the thing...
by dcsportsfan1 on Nov 23, 2010 9:59 AM EST up reply actions
Russia, the women, the wining and dining, the carefree attitude, the increasingly selfish “only I can fix this” play in crunch time, the video game covers, the All Star shootout goal, “No speed limits” with Fenty, Princess Leah, the vodka, the vodka, the vodka.
And this is what brings the letter on his sweater into question? Sorry, I just don’t buy it. The Caps knew what they were getting into when they named a large child as their Captain.
That came off as harsh, but I see no problem with Ovechkin as Captain, and I think we’re just blowing this a bit out of proportion. Boudreau was pissed, the team is slumping. This isn’t anything too new.
Boudreau was pissed, the team is slumping. This isn’t anything too new.
Part of the problem, no? That this isn’t new. And I have no problem with Ovi’s extracurricular activities. Part of what makes him such an engaging character.
But the time for him to step up and lead is now. Not because these are meaningless games in November, but because there are going to be meaningful games in April and May. Games where his leadership will really be needed. If he doesnt show those characteristics now, will anyone follow his lead when it really counts?
Just trying to capture the spirit of the thing...
by dcsportsfan1 on Nov 23, 2010 11:23 AM EST up reply actions
But the time for him to step up and lead is now.
I’d have thought the time for him to step up and lead was when he got the C put on this chest, but now works too I guess.
"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 23, 2010 11:32 AM EST up reply actions
I’d have thought it was the start of Game 5 against Montreal, but now works too I guess.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
by J.P. on Nov 23, 2010 11:35 AM EST up reply actions 2 recs
I would not mind seeing him staple someone on the Canes to the boards early, even if it means a penalty or a missed opportunity. Something to show he’s alive and aware of whats going on.
Does he have any Russian pals on the ’Canes? Perhaps he should just text them and leave out the hugs and kisses.
Just trying to capture the spirit of the thing...
by dcsportsfan1 on Nov 23, 2010 12:20 PM EST up reply actions
Remember, no pictures.
Signed,
B. Favre
"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 23, 2010 1:38 PM EST up reply actions
A slumping team and a pissed coach isn’t new because every team goes through something like this every year.
What is new is this sort of overblown nonsense that we’re pretending is a regular occurrence. Maybe I’d be concerned, but the way I look at it, this team is coasting somewhere around 75% right now, and if that’s the way they can win down the line, then so be it. Compare this to going 100% every game last season and being absolutely gassed come April.
You know the team’s going to make the playoffs, and you can’t do worse than last year.
Change is fine. Laugh about it. It’s a slump.
I don’t have any confidence though the team will suddenly ramp it up from 75% to 90% the last day of the regular season. Another slow start could kill once again.
by red army line on Nov 23, 2010 3:09 PM EST up reply actions
I’d definitely agree – but there’s a difference between coming out flat in a few games in November and doing so perpetually in November, December, January, February, etc. Apparently we’ve all decided that one month is all the time this team needs to go from easing into the season to being playoff-ready.
I guess I just question the validity of that, since most teams don’t hit their stride in – and you really don’t want them to hit before – February/March.
If anyone needs me, I'll be at Kettler.
Playoff ready, yes. That isn’t the same as in playoff mode. But this is a team that clearly wasn’t playoff ready last season or the season before that. They’re having trouble with bad teams. They’re not dominating the shot counts (though it is improved over last season). I don’t look at the Caps and say “wow, they’re seriously controlling the play.” For a coach that wants to play a puck possession style, ummm, shouldn’t controlling the puck be priority #1? Why have I had to look at Timeonice to see who won the Corsi battle, when I didn’t have to in 07-09?
It’s bad habits that have persisted since early last season that haven’t been broken, nor as anyone seemed to show an inkling of concern and tried to fix things. Moreover, the guy who’ll ultimately make or break the team seems disinterested and is putting up Corsi numbers that would make Marcus Johansson cringe. The goaltending is better in talent but worse in performance thus far than last season, as is the shooting, and yet it’s still more of the same. They’re trying to drive a square peg through a round hole, and there’s lots of friction. BB has a saw next to him but isn’t using it (acutally, more appropriate to say BB has a different shape and GMGM has the saw).
/end rant and involvement in discussion.
by red army line on Nov 23, 2010 3:44 PM EST up reply actions
The more I watch this current edition of the Caps, the more I come to agree with you that, penalty +/- aside, Feds was a major net contributor two years ago when healthy.
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 more I see of Marjo, the more I think “Fedorov.” I’m not quite sure why, but it’s a happy feeling :)
by red army line on Nov 23, 2010 3:48 PM EST up reply actions
And here’s where you lose me. Marjo’s got a lot of potential, but even at his max, he’s nowhere near Fedorov in his prime.
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.
No, I was thinking the Fedorov we saw in Washington. Great skating, kind of invisible to my untrained eye, good positioning defensively, on-ice results better than I would think. I think that’s kind of it, in the same way Backstrom/Crosby sometimes look like Gretzky.
by red army line on Nov 23, 2010 4:05 PM EST up reply actions
Feds has a calmness with the puck (hence great puck possession) that MarJo doesn’t come close to having yet. Feds was also outstanding at the little things – such as winning key faceoffs.
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.
Definitely 91 >>> 90. I guess it’s kind of like how with a prospect, you compare the guy to someone established (like Larsson to Bourque, Crosby to Gretzky, and so forth). He looks a lot like Fedorov to me, even if he doesn’t do all the things that go unnoticed that Feds did.
by red army line on Nov 24, 2010 7:37 AM EST up reply actions
I guess…Corsi is persistent. Regardless of records and such, Chicago and Detroit were fairly consistent in their Corsi percentages. Pittsburgh was after the coaching change. Washington so far is not, and on average can’t touch those teams right now, unfortunately. There needs to be some change that’ll make this team better.
by red army line on Nov 23, 2010 3:46 PM EST up reply actions
That’s where the bulls-eye has been placed. Mike Babcock finds a way to keep his club focused every season. He might be the exception, but it does provide an example that consistently winning need not get boring, and having high standards applied to your team doesn’t absolve anyone of lackadaisical play.
If you've read this far...seek help.
by ThePeerless on Nov 23, 2010 10:02 AM EST up reply actions
You don’t even need to look outside the conference; the Thrash is getting their shit together in the room (presumably via Ramsay) and it seems to be working for them so far.
"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 23, 2010 10:10 AM EST up reply actions
ATL is building a good nucleus. The influx of ex-Hawks has really solidified the team. And kudos to them in naming Andrew Ladd captain—class guy and someone the other guys in the room respect.
I poured spot remover on my dog. Now he's gone.
by Rather Bengt on Nov 23, 2010 10:16 AM EST up reply actions
It’s amazing to see how streaky teams like the Flyers last year and the Pens of 2 years ago pulled it together when it mattered most. I’m not sure the team has the leadership to find it’s way out right now, esp. with Knubs and Poti on the shelf. And 50 bag skates in a row won’t cure that.
by S h a g g y on Nov 23, 2010 10:22 AM EST up reply actions
What did those two teams have in common?
Just trying to capture the spirit of the thing...
by dcsportsfan1 on Nov 23, 2010 11:25 AM EST up reply actions
MOVE THE CAPS TO HERSHEY LIKE THEY SHOULD HAVE IN 2006!!!
by red army line on Nov 23, 2010 11:51 AM EST up reply actions
Except now we have to ask for waivers on most of our guys before we can send them down there.
Rocking the Red for the Caps since 1975. Rocking the Red on additional fronts as well.
Mike Babcock also has a team largely comprised of adults, though. That professionalism from their leaders helps sets the tone. The Caps? Not there yet in terms of maturity, though I would agree that greater accountability from the coach would help set that tone to a greater extent and accelerate the process somewhat.
Who is the Caps’ leader? Talent-wise, it’s obviously Ovechkin. But who do young players look up to?
Say what you will about Pronger (and I can’t say much good), but I bet a lot of young players on his team look at that guy and are scared out of their minds. He plays hard all the time and he hates the opposing team and he hates to lose. That means something.
When the Pens got Gary Roberts a couple of years ago, that team changed a little. I don’t think Roberts was a huge voice in the locker room and his talents had really left him by that time, but he was a leader.
One reason I wouldn’t mind seeing the Caps pick up some over-the-hill greybeard ex-Cup winner type like Cory Stillman.
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’d advocate for Cory “Own Goal” Sarich… the guy’s a good player and the last guy on our roster with a true Own Goal on has turned out to be a pretty good player (and it’s his birthday too!)
Washington Capitals 2009-10 = Quebec Nordiques 1994-95
--- D'ohboy
by MikeL-Pivonka on Nov 23, 2010 12:12 PM EST up reply actions
Gross.
I tweet far too much. Follow me!
Pleasure and pain, though directly opposite are contrived to be constant companions.
My ears are already hurting from the puns Laughlin would drop on us if Arnott ended up on the roster.
Washington Capitals 2009-10 = Quebec Nordiques 1994-95
--- D'ohboy
by MikeL-Pivonka on Nov 23, 2010 12:13 PM EST up reply actions
That would probably be the best part of his tenure here.
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 23, 2010 12:14 PM EST up reply actions
Hahahahaha.
Hahahahahahahaha.
Arnott’s Cup winning vibe was gone three years ago.
by Chris Burton on Nov 23, 2010 11:45 AM EST up reply actions
He’s been there, yes, but he stopped giving 100% some time ago. And that, in my opinion, isn’t what the Caps need right now.
by Chris Burton on Nov 23, 2010 11:51 AM EST up reply actions
In the sense that he can semi-adequately play 2C and Flash cannot, yes. But Flash is theoretically the better scorer and sadly not that far behind him defensively.
by Chris Burton on Nov 23, 2010 12:03 PM EST up reply actions
Maybe a few years ago… Combined they probably have enough in the tank for one more run, but individually… I don’t know.
Washington Capitals 2009-10 = Quebec Nordiques 1994-95
--- D'ohboy
by MikeL-Pivonka on Nov 23, 2010 12:14 PM EST up reply actions
Yeah. I just used Stillman because I’m sure he’s available for the asking. I think NJ will get back in contention at some point this year. They’re too talented not to.
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.
In January and February, I think the playoff picture will get a little more clear. Teams like the Wild might be looking to get rid of Matt Cullen or the Islanders with Doug Weight, and the Caps have to jump at that.
Doug Weight
No, thanks. And Cullen? The Caps would be locked into him for two more years. If they really wanted Cullen, why not sign him this off-season?
I’m holding out hope for Stephen Weiss
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.
A good prospect and a mid round pick if he’s a pending UFA, a la Poni, I guess. But Weiss has another two seasons after this one, so it might include a top prospect or a first to start.
by red army line on Nov 23, 2010 11:56 AM EST up reply actions
This was 20 days ago. And with Parise out? They’ll have to pull a Capitals0708.
Maclean = next coach to get fired? At least NJD has put together a couple of good performances in a row.
by red army line on Nov 23, 2010 11:54 AM EST up reply actions
I love Langenbrunner. Wouldn’t mind seeing him in Caps red instead of Devils red. Stephen Weiss too?
I don’t have much tolerance for stupid. Or cheese on food that doesn’t need it. -duck
by twistedlogic on Nov 23, 2010 12:16 PM EST up reply actions
The problem I see, in part going back to the maturity issue, is that I sense there is an important segment of the team that might admire certain players in general, but do not look up to them in an example/ guidance sense unless they hail from the same country.
(Yes, I know about the avatar hounding - just pretend mine is invisible.)
What about Knuble? I thought we got him to be that veteran voice in the room.
Sorry, the Caps don’t need to add another veteran. They need their own players to grow up.
by Gin and Tonic on Nov 23, 2010 1:03 PM EST up reply actions
ONLY 23 pics for Backstrom?
Aww c’mon. What about the 24th? One to grow on :)
You guys remember this one :)
I can’t flag that enough. I HATE HATE HATE HATE that game.
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 23, 2010 9:02 AM EST up reply actions
Not that game. One of the worst experiences I’ve ever had.
The VC was CRAWLING with Pens fans that day. Came down in fucking BUSES. We were surrounded by them. Because we foolishly stayed around for the last minute we had to deal with all their taunts and hoots and hollers on the way out. Awful.
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 23, 2010 9:30 AM EST up reply actions
Next home game vs the Pens, find the pens fans’ buses and throw some stink bombs in it last minute :)
Please. Between all the pierogi and sausage farts they wouldn’t even notice.
But seriously, I’m glad interest has grown to the point where we don’t have to worry about things like that any more.
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 23, 2010 9:42 AM EST up reply actions
What the hell is wrong with you?
"If a guy can throw down, it's way hot. And scars? If a guy's got a scar he's got me. And if he's missing some teeth, I'm missing my pants!"
by SeattleCapsFan on Nov 23, 2010 9:05 AM EST up reply actions
Oh C’mon. In retrospect it was funny
For those of you who get all worked up over it, you take sports way too seriously
No. That’s the day I got to explain what “choking” is to my 8-year old nephew.
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.
Better that day than when David Carradine died.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
by J.P. on Nov 23, 2010 10:25 AM EST up reply actions 6 recs
I would have gone with a Mama Cass reference, myself.
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 23, 2010 10:26 AM EST up reply actions
Ham sandwich.
"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 23, 2010 10:31 AM EST up reply actions
“J.P. at his most…masochistic.”
"I speak in .gifs, snappy retorts and curse words."
by Steck It Out on Nov 23, 2010 1:30 PM EST up reply actions
Turns out they’re into that.
/Michael’d
"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 23, 2010 10:29 AM EST up reply actions
No, not funny. In fact I think it’s one of the least funny things you’ve posted….which is actually saying quite a lot.
"If a guy can throw down, it's way hot. And scars? If a guy's got a scar he's got me. And if he's missing some teeth, I'm missing my pants!"
by SeattleCapsFan on Nov 23, 2010 11:04 AM EST up reply actions 2 recs
In a regular season game, too. Since then Backstrom has probably been a top5 center in the world.
by red army line on Nov 23, 2010 11:13 AM EST up reply actions
Are you forgetting that that play almost put us out of the playoffs that year? Were you in the stands? Did you have to listen to an arena half-full of Pens fans celebrate on our home turf?
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.
But the Capitals made it in anyways. I would’ve been annoyed at that picture then, not now. The Caps made it in. One point wouldn’t have changed much, would it?
by red army line on Nov 23, 2010 11:57 AM EST up reply actions
Um, the Caps made it in by one point.
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 meant an extra point or two for the Caps.
by red army line on Nov 23, 2010 12:01 PM EST up reply actions
It’s been so long, why get worked up about it?
I tweet far too much. Follow me!
Pleasure and pain, though directly opposite are contrived to be constant companions.
that’s what I’m saying. If you’re that devastated by a goal like that or letting rivals fans get you THAT worked up then
step back
take a deep breath
and don’t take the game so seriously. For real. We are FANS. We’re not Caps players or employees. We watch sports for entertainment and when watching sports gets to the point where you can’t tak any single mistake as a joke, then maybe it’s time to take a little break from watching sports.
Don't be so super serial
"I speak in .gifs, snappy retorts and curse words."
by Steck It Out on Nov 23, 2010 1:31 PM EST up reply actions 1 recs
poll time
At what point do we stop saying Crosby and Ovechkin, and start saying Crosby, Ovechkin, and Stamkos? I’m not foolish enough to think Stamkos is better than either of them, at least not yet, but I think you can only blame his success on MSL so much.
Stamkos has been great, and for a pretty decent stretch of time. But he’s stil relatively new to the League. Teams will adjust to him – let’s see how he adjusts in response.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
86 goals and 67 assists in 129 games is pretty crazy.
I’ve tried to watch a few of TBL’s games this year, and I can’t believe how relatively little attention defenses pay to Stamkos over in the left circle. His shot is lethal.
by Chris Burton on Nov 23, 2010 9:31 AM EST up reply actions
Reminds me of how unstoppable Vinny’s shot was from the circles when he was in his younger days.
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 23, 2010 9:33 AM EST up reply actions
Exactly. Teams will adjust (right?). He has an absurd % of his goals on the PP.
I’m absolutely not trying to take anything away from him – he might be the game’s most exciting player at the moment. Just saying that AO had a 65-goal third season, but eventually goals become harder to come by.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
You’d think they’d adjust, yeah, but its still strange how on every PP he just floats over there and uncorks one.
by Chris Burton on Nov 23, 2010 9:37 AM EST up reply actions
That’s my main “issue” with the guy. Every goal he scores looks exactly the same. I’m just not sure how long he can keep that up.
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 23, 2010 9:42 AM EST up reply actions
His goal last night was actually a tap-in. All St. Louis, though.
I don’t think I’ve ever seen a one-timer that accurate and that hard. Pretty amazing.
by Chris Burton on Nov 23, 2010 9:44 AM EST up reply actions
St. Louis is having an AMAZING season. Guy is awesome.
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 23, 2010 9:50 AM EST up reply actions
Well, if you look at the space AO got in his first three seasons versus now… it’s very different.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
No question. Guy can barely get through the neutral zone nowadays much less cut across the middle.
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 23, 2010 9:49 AM EST up reply actions
If you like Stamkos so much, why don’t you marry him, sheesh.
I tweet far too much. Follow me!
Pleasure and pain, though directly opposite are contrived to be constant companions.
by Ovechwin on Nov 23, 2010 9:59 AM EST up reply actions 1 recs
His love is reserved for Weber.
The bastards hung me in the spring of '25. But I am still alive.
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Ron and Fez 11 to 3
by YvonLabresMoustache on Nov 23, 2010 10:00 AM EST up reply actions
Bingo, though he’s trying to alienate me so far this year, I think, sadly.
by Chris Burton on Nov 23, 2010 10:12 AM EST up reply actions
I still think he hurt Ovi with that chop in preseason.
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 23, 2010 10:14 AM EST up reply actions
Alleged chop!!1
/CB’d
I tweet far too much. Follow me!
Pleasure and pain, though directly opposite are contrived to be constant companions.
Certainly may have, though unfortunately no video was available of the instance. The game summary has him down for a slashing penalty.
He hasn’t been anywhere near the dominant force of the last two years. The poor play directly corresponds to the lack of Suter, though.
by Chris Burton on Nov 23, 2010 10:17 AM EST up reply actions
Hrm? He’s an exciting player, but so are a lot of guys. The observation was related to how its surprising that defenses still let him do it after 129 games of the same thing.
by Chris Burton on Nov 23, 2010 10:12 AM EST up reply actions
Just giving you a hard time, stranger. You should come into OTOT some time!
I tweet far too much. Follow me!
Pleasure and pain, though directly opposite are contrived to be constant companions.
I can’t really say. I have only seen 2 Preds games this year and the 2nd one i saw on TV was probably the worst one I could have seen this year.
I poured spot remover on my dog. Now he's gone.
by Rather Bengt on Nov 23, 2010 10:19 AM EST up reply actions
We saw Ovechkin’s high in goals in 2007-2008. I doubt he gets within ten of that number for the rest of his career, and in a couple of seasons it will be hard for him to get within 20 of it. We’re probably seeing Stamkos’ big year this year. A prime goal scorer’s peak season comes early in his career. You’re not seeing many elite goal scorers whose big year comes after age 25 or so.
If you've read this far...seek help.
by ThePeerless on Nov 23, 2010 10:06 AM EST up reply actions
At what point do we stop saying Crosby and Ovechkin, and start saying Crosby, Ovechkin, and Stamkos
When the NHL’s marketing team decides it’s time :)
by Brainumbc on Nov 23, 2010 9:29 AM EST up reply actions 1 recs
You don’t. Not until either Ovechkin of Crosby slips. You can’t market 1 vs. 2 vs. 3. You have to have a mano-a-mano angle. Bird/Magic, Brady/Manning, Crosby/Ovechkin.
Wait your turn Stamkos.
If you've read this far...seek help.
His prime came too early for the “ESPN” effect. Then there was that whole Game 6 thing in 1980 that didn’t help.
If you've read this far...seek help.
I agree with Ralph Wiley in that we didn’t get to see the “real” Dr. J (the ABA 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 23, 2010 9:57 AM EST up reply actions
“Respect is a lot more important, and a lot greater, than popularity.”
Quote from Dr J himself. A lot like Alex O, talent wise: supremely gifted and smart.
by S h a g g y on Nov 23, 2010 10:08 AM EST up reply actions
Not yet.
Short version: high PDO, historic shooting percentage, the best point% on the PP since 2007 by miles, an ES point% that beats anyone’s 3-year average since 2007, Corsi Rel close to zero last time I checked.
by red army line on Nov 23, 2010 9:32 AM EST up reply actions
Or just Crosby and Stamkos.
/Kidding-sort of-no really, just kidding-i think
Just trying to capture the spirit of the thing...
by dcsportsfan1 on Nov 23, 2010 9:36 AM EST up reply actions
Do we ever? I think for years to come it’ll be Crosby and Ovechkin, and then a slew of talented players right after – no one has thrown Toews, Kane, Backstrom, Malkin, Semin, Green, etc. into that duo, either. He’s an amazing talent and very fun to watch, but just scoring a lot of goals doesn’t do it for me (otherwise, until last year, Crosby wouldn’t have been mentioned with Ovechkin either).
If anyone needs me, I'll be at Kettler.
But other than being captain, what does AO do beside score goals? He and Stamkos are similar players in that their role is a goal-scorer (AO tending to score better at ES, iirc).
by Chris Burton on Nov 23, 2010 9:38 AM EST up reply actions
Before I get jumped on, I realize AO is more physical, etc.
by Chris Burton on Nov 23, 2010 9:39 AM EST up reply actions
Until this season, he was arguably the best ES Corsi winger in the game, if not the best ES forward or best player. Stamkos is not there yet.
by red army line on Nov 23, 2010 9:41 AM EST up reply actions
Ovechkin had more assists than Crosby last year.
As a wing…
Atta dinnin stick a who!
by Gould Old Days on Nov 23, 2010 10:12 AM EST up reply actions
…in 9 fewer games.
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 23, 2010 10:14 AM EST up reply actions
Crosby had more goals than Ovechkin last year.
As a center…
Sorry, couldn’t resist. Obviously AO would’ve blown everybody up in just about every scoring category had he not missed 10 games.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
When Tampa gets into a Winter Classic… then maybe. I suspect it may happen sooner rather than later as they actually used to play hockey in the baseball stadium in St. Pete and some of the largest non-outdoors crowds in NHL history happened there. If the Bolts continue to get better and start making some noise about returning to the playoffs, then it’s a very real possibility.
If someone was going to crack the Ovechkin/Crosby stratosphere, Stamkos might be one of the players who could do it (or Patrick Kane, or one of the Sedins, or Doughty, or…)
Washington Capitals 2009-10 = Quebec Nordiques 1994-95
--- D'ohboy
by MikeL-Pivonka on Nov 23, 2010 9:38 AM EST up reply actions
Wrong place, wrong time for that conversation. Ovechkin, as the team captain, has to know better. That would be especially true after a third straight loss, keep that stuff away from the team and away from the building. If he had been playing well that would be one thing, but he has been invisible for long stretches lately. Maybe he doesn’t care about the regular season, heck, maybe he shouldn’t. But you have a pissed off coach trying to send a message that the way the team has been playing is unacceptable, the captain of the team needs to be on board with that. Not to be a sky is falling kind of guy, but I am not sure he understands what “leadership” is.
The Sloan Holtby mess included multiple mistakes. Holtby was way to far out of his crease defending a shot that was to come from a very sharp angle from a player that was checked. Even without Sloan crushing him, no way Holtby recovers in time to defend the wrap around. I am not sure what the heck Sloan was trying to do on that play. At best, even if he got past Holtby to chase the player behind the net, he would have just picked Erskine off his check leaving both d men behind the net and behind the player with the puck. Holtby did not look good to me, but he is a young guy and will learn. Sloan is not an NHL player, in my opinion.
The team has looked bad, but that happens. Long season and in one way or another they need to learn, as a team, how to play when things are going like this. Or, they will end up like they did against Montreal last playoffs. Floundering with no idea how to pull out of it.
I am not of the “it just happens” school about this team at the moment. Not when they have allowed three or more goals in eight of 11 games this month. I’m not worried that Holtby has had two difficult games in a row. He played poorly in Atlanta, and the game got away from him late in the first period last night. And given that Neuvirth was hurt, and Varlamov wasn’t going to play, Holtby taking one for the team is to his credit. But giving up goals is now a problem of some duration. Neuvirth hasn’t played as well this month, but the team is not playing well in front of whoever is in goal.
I’d like to think that this is all matter of acclimation, of getting to that happy place where they play better defense consistently. They started the year that way, especially on the penalty kill, but that might be explained away as a product of adrenaline from the start of a new season and the easier it is to focus when the routine of games hasn’t yet taken over. And, perhaps now we are seeing that the new found attention to defense has not yet become instinctive on the part of the players, that they are still thinking their way through things and are slow to react as a result.
Yeah, I’d like to think that, but if it is the case, there should be — there had better be — improvement in December. Right now, from the goal on out this is not a good defensive team.
If you've read this far...seek help.
by ThePeerless on Nov 23, 2010 11:24 AM EST up reply actions
Right now, from the goal on out this is not a good defensive team.
Yep. I think the early defensive returns were a mirage borne out of a great stretch of goaltending by Neuvy.
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.
Partially. But we were top 10 in shots allowed per game, too.
by wickedwitch on Nov 23, 2010 11:42 AM EST up reply actions
The ES goaltending hasn’t been as good as last season on the whole. That’s part of it. Probably around .010 lower by the starter (Theo was .924 last season), so 1 goal every 100 shots, a goal per ~4-5 games.
by red army line on Nov 23, 2010 11:58 AM EST up reply actions
By “it happens” what I mean is teams go through slumps. I am not smart enough or close enough to the team to know why this particular slump is happening. One could soundly argue the Caps are short a center and probably short a quality d man or two. I can draw some conclusions from the way the team captain acts after a lose like this, but that may not be fair and also may not be the right conclusion.
We talk about bad defense we also seem to focus on the d men and their play. I saw an awful lot of odd man rushes last night and not a lot of hard skating from the forwards to back check. The defensemen did not play well, but the forwards play, which is less obvious on TV, was also bad in the Caps end. I do not watch the games closely enough and I certainly do not go back and analyze film and frankly even if I did i am not sure I am qualified to draw any conclusions from it being just a rec league hockey player ;). But, my impression is, as a team, the effort, the hard work in their own end is lacking from the forwards. I also believe that the Caps “system” is so aggressive that it sometimes leaves the D or the goalie in a bad spot. But really I do not fully understand the system so it could be a false impression.
All I know is they are not playing well and my eyes tell me the effort is just not there from all of the team. Why? No idea.
I think much of the problem with the defense is the offense. They just cannot hold onto the puck or make a good breakout right now. They’re constantly on their heels.
Atta dinnin stick a who!
by Gould Old Days on Nov 23, 2010 2:23 PM EST up reply actions
Adam Proteau may have it right, folks.
To loudly kvetch over a handful of bad Capitals games is to date Cindy Crawford & tell your buddies how harrowing her mole is.
Cindy Crawford? Nice 20 year old reference.
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 23, 2010 12:09 PM EST up reply actions
Hey, she still has it… it’s not like he said Cheryl Tiegs (who also, I might add, still has it!)
Washington Capitals 2009-10 = Quebec Nordiques 1994-95
--- D'ohboy
by MikeL-Pivonka on Nov 23, 2010 12:16 PM EST up reply actions
A week ago, they ran off a string of 8-0-1, and the naysayer’s comment was “So what, wait until April”.
Now, they’ve gone 0-2-1, and the yeasayer’s comment is “So what, wait until April.”
Weird, huh?
"I would feed them lefts until I was pretty much tired of doing it." - Alan May, JRR, 10.16.2010
April is what matters to this team, and May and June. That said, they have to get back to winning, and soon, if they want to play in April (See NY Rangers 2009-10….)
Washington Capitals 2009-10 = Quebec Nordiques 1994-95
--- D'ohboy
by MikeL-Pivonka on Nov 23, 2010 12:17 PM EST up reply actions
Yeah, that seems like the type of opinion someone watching boxscores and not games might put forth.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
I’d say complaining about not winning by 4 goals everynight would be analogous to complaining about Cindy’s mole. Kvetching about the Caps performance is more like dating Cindy Crawford and having her not put out. All that that talent and it’s not being used to it’s fullest extent…
Just trying to capture the spirit of the thing...
by dcsportsfan1 on Nov 23, 2010 12:27 PM EST up reply actions 3 recs
What If?
Now hopefully this is just a BIG what if, and this doesn’t happen at all, but what if the caps lose to Carolina like they did last night?
Braden Holtby needs to be in Washington 2010
000
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 23, 2010 12:39 PM EST up reply actions 1 recs
I Finally Gotcha, Yahuck!
~~~ R0cK D@ R3D ~~~
by Chaz-Capapalooza on Nov 23, 2010 1:51 PM EST up reply actions 3 recs
Hurrr-ick Staal?
Atta dinnin stick a who!
by Gould Old Days on Nov 23, 2010 2:24 PM EST up reply actions
Yes, it is only November and nothing is won in this month, or lost. However, having been reading this site everyday since the end of last year and the beginning of this one, it seems to be the prevailing opinion that this team is:
a) wildly inconsistent
b) has a captain who is going through what is probably the worst stretch of his career and being pretty cavalier about it
c) the team has major holes and has had them since at least the beginning of last year, with a management who doesn’t give any indication of trying to fix.
d) soft on “D”, and missing a very important part of the squad (2C)
Nietzsche said: “You can’t predict the future, but you can look at the past and see patterns developing.” There are some disturbing trends with this team, built as is, November or not. I’m not sure what points to this team having learned from MTL 5-7, and it might be too late to do anything about it if management realizes they haven’t.
If you are driving in the left hand lane and you are not passing, you are a #$@&$
JP's favorite nom de plume...
from the Red Light blog entry:
Seasoned Caps watchers are perplexed. In his weekly ranking of Capitals yesterday — before the Devils game — J.P. of *Jaspers*’ Rink had Ovie trending downward, writing, "We’ve come to expect more from the best player on the planet." After the game, Becca H. on *Jaspers*’ Rink wondered if coach Bruce Boudreau might possibly make him a healthy scratch, although she admitted the odds of that "aren’t great (although with every game, one has to think it becomes more of a possibility)." It sounds rash, but for some, that’s what it’s come to.
Brooks lining up at D and no Neuvy today per VogsTweet
FWIW, #Caps lines at practice today: 8-19-26, 14-90-28, 25-15-16 and 17-39-10. Seven D: 3, 4, 21, 27, 52, 55 and 74. Goalies: 1 and 70.
You perhaps knew me better as "Your Nation's Capital." Same great commentary, now with 100% more transparency!
At least Green is practicing…….wait why is Laich playing D?
Braden Holtby needs to be in Washington 2010
Because Sloan sucks.
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 23, 2010 1:07 PM EST up reply actions
Yeah, just saw that.
Sure, Neuvy may be able to play on Wednesday (Bruce in postgame). Not.
But good news if Green is OK. Better Brooks on D then Fahey, no?
"It's always good to have vikings."
as long as having Brooks on D doesn’t make Flash a center, looks like it didn’t for now.
by vtcapsfan99 on Nov 23, 2010 12:56 PM EST up reply actions
and Leone just tweeted that Fahey practiced with Hershey today, fwiw; also, fwiw, if they were going to recall him they wouldn’t do it until tomorrow based on history and managing the games on the NHL roster issue re. waivers.
Man, I wish we had internet video of practice. Sounds like the bag skate is on.
"It's always good to have vikings."
VogsCaps Usually the bag skate portion of practice is at the end. Today. all the pucks are below the goal line at the get go.
VogsCaps To paraphrase the great Jerry Lee Lewis, “Whole Lotta Skatin’ Goin’ On.”
"It's always good to have vikings."
LOL
Weight classes
All players shall be divided into the following weight classes, listed in descending order of toughness:
* Heavyweight
* Cruiserweight
* Middleweight
* Lightweight
* Doug Weight
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 23, 2010 1:39 PM EST up reply actions 1 recs
I’m hearing Mike Wise is attempting a Chad Dukes-esq rant on the Capitals. Shame he doesn’t know enough about the sport to make it 12 minutes.
by mch on Nov 23, 2010 1:42 PM EST reply actions 1 recs
Is he really? As odious as the Dukes rant was, I can only imagine this one will be 1,000 times worse.
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 23, 2010 1:46 PM EST up reply actions
I know it was apparently all over the internet, but I wasn’t interested enough to listen to it.
"It's always good to have vikings."
The Dukes thing? I was so perturbed about it I wrote about it at Box Seats, therefore raising the ire of 13 knuckleheads who completely missed my point.
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 23, 2010 2:00 PM EST up reply actions
The Skins rant is one of the most epic things I’ve ever heard, no way he can top that.
~~~ R0cK D@ R3D ~~~
by Chaz-Capapalooza on Nov 23, 2010 1:54 PM EST up reply actions
“I want Reparations! I want…REDSKIN Reparations!!!”
~~~ R0cK D@ R3D ~~~
by Chaz-Capapalooza on Nov 23, 2010 1:54 PM EST up reply actions
Old Russian Proverb
The pessimist says this possibly can’t get any worse, and the optimist responds, “Sure it can”
And to settle the whole fullness/emptiness of the glass debate. It depends on whether the glass is being filled or emptied.
Obstreperously Avatarless
One thing I think we can all agree on: Holtby is not ready for the NHL. Even in his winning appearances, I thought he looked unready. Now I know he needs further practice in a lower league.
Patron saint of quality footwear.
Yup. I see in him skills I believe will ultimately make him a successful NHL goalie, but he ain’t there yet.
Atta dinnin stick a who!
by Gould Old Days on Nov 23, 2010 2:28 PM EST up reply actions
Time to worry:
cmasisak22 Mike Green on his injury: “It is more of something that has been bothering me in the past and it is not getting better.”
Define “in the past”. This season? Last year?
"It's always good to have vikings."
if it’s lingered since last season, the responsibility falls on the caps medical staff to properly diagnose and treat the problem.
by Natty Bumppo on Nov 23, 2010 8:14 PM EST up reply actions
Happy birthday Nicky! Hope your buddies have something nicer for you than a shaving cream pie!
You perhaps knew me better as "Your Nation's Capital." Same great commentary, now with 100% more transparency!
Happy birthday, Nicky.
I guess the coach won’t let the birthday boy choose his linemates for tomorrow’s game, as Kindergarten teachers let the birthday kid choose which kids get to sit at his/her table that day in class.
Rocking the Red for the Caps since 1975. Rocking the Red on additional fronts as well.
Vote for Nicky for all-star and move him up the list! Happy B-day NickyB!
"I like pillows" - John Carlson
by Ray of Sunshine on Nov 23, 2010 8:13 PM EST up reply actions
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