Sunday Caps Clips: Three‑or‑More... Wins in a Row
by J.P. on Mar 7, 2010 8:21 AM EST
in Caps Clips
292 comments
Your savory breakfast links:
- Recaps and other assorted musings on last night's win from the us, WaPo (blog, gamer), Vogs, DCEx, Joe B., Ed Frankovic, Peerless, OFB, Puckhead and RMNB from a Caps' perspective, and our pals Scotty Hockey and Blueshirt Banter from the, um, other side.
- Scott Walker 's seven-year-old son on the trade that brought his dad to D.C.: "Do I have to get a Walker jersey or can I get an Ovechkin jersey instead?" Priceless. [Edmonton Journal]
- Nicklas Backstrom is tough. [DCist]
- Alex Ovechkin is one of the nicest guys in the League. Believe it, Canada. [Kukla's Korner]
- On Ovi's slump. [Corey Masisak]
- On Ovi still feeling some Olympic pain. [RMNB]
- Pittsburgh is the third-most hated city for DMV sports fans. Caps fans would place it higher... [FFODC]
- ... Gee, wonder why that is. [Tribune-Review]
- Down a level and up in Hershey, Braden Holtby's shutout clinched a playoff birth for the Bears. The Caps and Bears are now a combined 27-0-0 at home in 2010. [Patriot-News]
- Per the HHoF, on this date back in 1995, "Washington's rookie goaltender Jim Carey stopped 36 shots to improve his record to 4-0-0 after being promoted from the minors, as the Capitals won 3-1, at Boston."
- Finally, happy 47th birthday to Mike Eagles and happy 50th to Butsy Erickson.
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Ovechkin and Cherry
In case you guys didn’t see it, last night Don Cherry bashed the people that were bashing Ovechkin for his performance in the Olympics. He said it was ludicrous to suggest he wasn’t still one of the very best players and if he played on Canada against Russia he’d have filled the net.
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I heard rumors to that effect. Will have to dig out the video.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
Additionally, around 5:20 he chimes in on the Corvo/Walker acquisitions.
"First Lady, I'm sorry I pimp slapped you into that china cabinet."
ha watch around 3:30-4. Capouti (sp?) takin a page from ovechkins book (similar to my favourite ovi goal against montreal)
I've often thought of becoming a golf club
by Caps Canadian Connection on Mar 7, 2010 11:52 AM EST up reply actions
Its almost like Milbury saying he would take Ovi ahead of Crosby to start a franchise. Rehearsed and made-up.
I really have a hard time paying attention to Cherry.
Cherry knows his hockey. Sometimes the schtick is gratuitous, but he’s loads better than Milbury
"You want to start being part of the Rink? Fine, but more’s expected of you than John/Jane Cap Fan. Carry the cause of informed discussion to the unwashed masses and don’t crap in the yards of other SBN sites if you decide to go over there. They’re passionate about their teams too, no need to troll elsewhere and/or be a sore winner." --BP
Cherry is in no way like Milbury. That was not rehearsed (says the guy that didn’t watch it). He’s praised AO plenty in the past. Sure we’ve disagreed with some stuff he’s said but Cherry is nothing if not honest.
Killer_Carlson and Steckel Me Elmo are like brothers to me. And when I say brothers I don't mean like actual brothers. I mean it like how black people use it, which is more meaningful, I think.
by Fehr and Balanced on Mar 7, 2010 1:54 PM EST via mobile up reply actions
Milbury and McGuire were just on GMGM’s nuts talking about how he owned the day at trade deadline. While I agree he did well, I didn’t realize that Belanger/Walker/Jurcina apparently instantly make our PK better and won’t be 25th in the league anymore.
by Davethecapsfan on Mar 7, 2010 2:14 PM EST up reply actions
I think Corvo helps the PK a lot…
Atta dinnin stick a who!
by Gould Old Days on Mar 7, 2010 2:48 PM EST up reply actions
Yeah it was just odd he was the name left out, who knows they looked like they were rushing through that segment and of course, it is Milbury so he’s just a talking head pushing the party line on winners and losers on deadline day.
by Davethecapsfan on Mar 7, 2010 2:50 PM EST up reply actions
The mainstream press hasn’t yet figured out that Corvo can keep the puck out of the net. Probably because he’s helpful when it comes to putting the puck in the other team’s net. Also, because (a) leads the breakout, (b) plays a ton of minutes, and © therefore has a large number (in absolute terms) of turnovers. Sounds like another offensive-minded defenseman I know…
Atta dinnin stick a who!
by Gould Old Days on Mar 7, 2010 2:54 PM EST up reply actions
Exactly…if you’re a D man that can contribute offensively apparently your ability to play in your own zone automatically suffers. There will always be a risk/reward factor with those guys (as we’ve seen time and again) but the guy is eating up 20 minutes a game and playing extremely solid. He also gives us options on the PP and is a great puck mover 5 on 5.
Carlson has been steady as well and him and ShaMo as 5 and 6 is working great imo mostly on the amount of minutes he’s getting, it’s the perfect amount. I don’t always think Schultz with Greenie is the best pairing for him but on the whole the D pairings are much more solid on paper and in practice (so far).
by Davethecapsfan on Mar 7, 2010 2:58 PM EST up reply actions
Sigh. I think the only way to shut up the talking heads is to make it happen.
No Alex, no ratings. Know Alex, know ratings.
Even that won’t work. Best plan is to ignore ’em.
Atta dinnin stick a who!
by Gould Old Days on Mar 7, 2010 4:28 PM EST up reply actions
It’s hard to pay attention as the first thing you want to do when you see him is adjust the color balance on the TV. That said, he has credibility as he was a very successful coach and he knows hockey. His anti-Euro stance aside, the guy knows how the game is played.
Milbury’s record as a coach and GM speaks for itself. The Islanders still have a Cap hit for Yashin,and their team is still recovering from the damage. However, if you get into a shoe fight, then Milbury is the guy you want on your side.
Let's go Caps!
Mike Milbury vs. Nikita Khrushchev. Cage match, with shoes as the only allowed weapon.
No Alex, no ratings. Know Alex, know ratings.
Corvo is exactly the type of top four defenceman that was in such demand for the Caps last year: a guy that’s able to keep up with opposing forwards, stick check, handle the puck in his own zone, and most importantly skate it out of the zone instead of feebly trying to clear it along the boards every single time (into a pinching pittsburgh defender).
Great pick up.
"Do I have to get a Walker jersey or can I get an Ovechkin jersey instead?"
Walkers kid is hysterical. And I thought the kids at our rink were bad when we asked some who they were rooting for in the Olympics they said Russia. LMAO
I thought Corvo played well and that 4th was great to watch last night. I guess Carlson is up for good. Does anyone know if he’ll keep 74? I am trying to make my next Jersey decision.
Walker has a shelf life of the remainder of the season.
I’d go Backstrom, if you want to venture away from Ovi.
Carlson may change his number.
I have Backs and Ovi, I wasnt thinking walker…but I was leaning toward Carlson. I am assuming that his number isnt locked untill September or so.
Carlson might change his number, but even if he does, I usually take that as a sign that you’ve been following the player for ages, not a jersey foul.
If you already have Backs and Ovi, I’d consider Brooks Laich as a third. If you want to go unusual, Jeff Schultz would be a good call.
No Alex, no ratings. Know Alex, know ratings.
Mike Green? Semyon Varlamov? I guess you’d want a guy that’ll stick around.
On that note, Tyler Sloan is signed for a few more seasons.
CИДHИЙ KPOCБИЙ: АЛEKCAHДP OBEЧKИH, OH CEЙЧAC TBOЙ ПAПA
by red army line on Mar 7, 2010 9:27 AM EST up reply actions
I’ve seen one roaming the upper concourse. My jaw dropped. I immediately thought “relative”
Founding member of the Tyler Sloan Fan Club
This person should be made an honorary member of the Tyler Sloan Fan Club.
Founding member of the Tyler Sloan Fan Club
Or committed to the nearest psychiatric institution.
"You ever use smelling salts, every time you type a bad blog?" Brooks Laich
Hey, I got my 56 Bourque road white, and outside of Rats, nobody’s called me crazy. Heck, I wear that thing to the next Japers’ Rink pickup game, and someone might confuse me for the real dude. XD
Seriously, though, I’ve pretty much held that you can’t go wrong with a player jersey unless the player is specifically reviled (read: Jagr, and to a much lesser extent, Nylander). Once you wander out into customization territory, the risk for foul increases exponentially. I’ve got my own name on an Oilers third and a Chiefs road, but in both cases, those were the jerseys that specific house league teams I played for used.
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I think you need to go check your door. There should be two men in white suits arriving any minute.
"You ever use smelling salts, every time you type a bad blog?" Brooks Laich
Laich is one of my favorite guys to root for….but he is my wifes main man…I couldnt possibly walk around in his sweater…although she may mistake me for him and ZI could get more action…hmmm
Oh, you’d likely have problems with that sweater getting stolen. I’d say Schultzie is a good choice. Unusual choice, but I expect he’ll stick for a while.
All three of the new guys are rentals; we;ll see who wants to stick around.
No Alex, no ratings. Know Alex, know ratings.
I have been rooting hard for 55 this year…but I have cursed his name so much in years past (especially last year) not sure how id feel about that…although he is looking like a good choice
Maybe a custom jersey with “McPhee” on the back, number 1?
CИДHИЙ KPOCБИЙ: АЛEKCAHДP OBEЧKИH, OH CEЙЧAC TBOЙ ПAПA
by red army line on Mar 7, 2010 10:01 AM EST up reply actions
Leonsis, number 1, would look good – even better with an O where the A/C would go. That doesn’t seem like a foul to me, but I will defer to the wiser hockey minds here to decide that.
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Nice
Nate Ewell tweet -
He was sporting a #8 last nite – already signed. Scott works quickly. RT @JapersRink: Scott Walker’s 7-yr-old son
"You ever use smelling salts, every time you type a bad blog?" Brooks Laich
And I recall that Knuble’s son was also thrilled about the idea of his dad playing with Ovi.
Rocking the Red since 1975
Knuble’s kids are so cute, they were at ESPN zone Baltimore.
If you pay peanuts, you get monkeys.
Founding member of the Tyler Sloan Fan Club
By the way, the Walker quote was in a Post profile online yesterday. The Edmonton paper was simply quoting.
And with any rookie callup, I’d wait until next year before buying that jersey. Unless you want a collector’s item.
"The Caps fan doesn't say, 'is the glass half full' or 'is the glass half empty'. He wonders when the glass is going to spill."
Glad to see someone noted this; here’s the link:
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2010/03/05/AR2010030503649.html?sub=AR
Yeah, sorry about that. On the plus side, contact our customer complaints department and we’ll gladly refund every penny you’d ever paid us to read the site.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
by J.P. on Mar 7, 2010 1:36 PM EST up reply actions 1 recs
Not a critique at all. I was actually slamming the Edmonton guy for not attributing the original publication.
"The Caps fan doesn't say, 'is the glass half full' or 'is the glass half empty'. He wonders when the glass is going to spill."
I know. I was just playin’. But I should’ve noticed that (and the EJ dude definitely should’ve attributed the quote).
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
Yea thought that quote was adorable.
Every time Nicky scores a goal, an angel gets its wings.
by SeattleCapsFan on Mar 7, 2010 12:21 PM EST up reply actions
Theo definitely reads JR – he knows that we all just pledged all this extra money for shutouts, so he goes out there and gets one. Awesome night, Theo!
I made similar remark coming home from the game. Earlier, I was joking that the team was helping him raise money by giving up so many shots on goal. And remember, he’s putting up more money on that game, too.
"The Caps fan doesn't say, 'is the glass half full' or 'is the glass half empty'. He wonders when the glass is going to spill."
free Center Ice till tomorrow night
I advise you to check in on Canucks-Predators at 3PM EST…we hate those guys. A lot.
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yeahh
Unfortunately. I mainly hate them because of this.
Or this:
On the Forecheck: a blog that's more productive than a Predator power play!
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Shoulda seen Ellis’ tweet after that. “Hey Henrik, stop trying to ride me like a horse. I’m not into guys!”
On the Forecheck: a blog that's more productive than a Predator power play!
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You look jus’ like a hooooog, boy.
"You want to start being part of the Rink? Fine, but more’s expected of you than John/Jane Cap Fan. Carry the cause of informed discussion to the unwashed masses and don’t crap in the yards of other SBN sites if you decide to go over there. They’re passionate about their teams too, no need to troll elsewhere and/or be a sore winner." --BP
Random but in the Avs-Blues game last night, it was 6-3 Avs and the blues pulled their G. I was confused.
If you pay peanuts, you get monkeys.
Founding member of the Tyler Sloan Fan Club
Okay, Tribune-Review. Patterns cannot be discerned on the basis of two data points.
No Alex, no ratings. Know Alex, know ratings.
by gotsparkly on Mar 7, 2010 9:48 AM EST reply actions 1 recs
I remember Crosby’s first intrasquad scrimmage, five years ago, when it didn’t look like he was doing anything special. Yet, broadcaster and ex-Penguins winger Bob Errey was raving about him. Errey saw the little things.
STOP THE PRESSES! A flaming homer praised the #1 overall pick. Irrefutable proof that Sid is Russell to AO’s Wilt.
What an idiot.
"You want to start being part of the Rink? Fine, but more’s expected of you than John/Jane Cap Fan. Carry the cause of informed discussion to the unwashed masses and don’t crap in the yards of other SBN sites if you decide to go over there. They’re passionate about their teams too, no need to troll elsewhere and/or be a sore winner." --BP
Apparently Mr. Starkey has little appreciation for history, especially Pittsburgh history. His argument is the same one that Gretzky backers used against Lemieux back in the 80’s when Wayne had several Cups to his name and Mario had none. Wayne, it was argued, was so much better because he could win the big one and Mario couldn’t. Of course, we all know how that turned out.
Gretz had Messier, Coffey, Kurri, Fuhr. Lemieux had Jagr, Francis, Coffey again.
Oddly enough, it’s a team game.
Atta dinnin stick a who!
by Gould Old Days on Mar 7, 2010 11:12 AM EST up reply actions
Note the city where Tribune-Review is published. Pittsburgh, PA. Not exactly a very objective source.
Also, two data points is not enough to determine a pattern, mathematically speaking. Wouldn’t be enough to discern whether we’re talking about a linear function or a quadratic function.
Rocking the Red since 1975
Here's Something You won't see in Tribune-Review
I can’t believe I’m saying this but this is two times in one week that Larry Brooks nailed it:
Maybe Sidney Crosby is a fan of Jay’s or maybe he was upset at not being invited to Dave’s Super Bowl bash with Oprah, but folks around the NHL sure would be interested in learning even one of No. 87’s reasons for rejecting David Letterman’s invitation to host his Top Ten while the Golden Boy was in New York this week. Upon learning of the snub, Slap Shots was told that this wasn’t the first time Crosby, who last year declined to appear on NBC’s “Today” show following Pittsburgh’s Stanley Cup victory, had rejected a request from Letterman’s "Late Show. We only can imagine the demands on Crosby’s time. Yet, in the days that hockey was front-page and back- page material after Canada gold, U.S. silver in overtime attracted more television viewers in the States than any game since the Lake Placid Miracle in 1980, it’s difficult to understand why the NHL’s most recognizable player and ambassador refused to spread the gospel.
-NY Post
I wonder if the Canadian press will rip Sid the way they attacked Ovechkin for not talking to the media.
by b.orr4 on Mar 7, 2010 10:33 AM EST up reply actions 1 recs
Interesting. Ambassador for the game much, Sid? I guess he thinks the cover of SI is enough. Giving him an ever so slight benefit of the doubt, I’m going to fault his agent/team as much on this one; maybe he never even heard about it.
"The Caps fan doesn't say, 'is the glass half full' or 'is the glass half empty'. He wonders when the glass is going to spill."
I’ve never heard of an agent who wouldn’t be foaming at the mouth to get his client on national U.S. TV not once, not twice, but apparently three times.
You’d think.
"The Caps fan doesn't say, 'is the glass half full' or 'is the glass half empty'. He wonders when the glass is going to spill."
I don’t know, they couldn’t risk him showing any kind of personality.
If you pay peanuts, you get monkeys.
Founding member of the Tyler Sloan Fan Club
You could be onto to something there. Or showing that he doesn’t have any?
OK, I’m starting to feel a little dirty now; it’s the mom instinct kicking in again.
"The Caps fan doesn't say, 'is the glass half full' or 'is the glass half empty'. He wonders when the glass is going to spill."
That’s been the ongoing criticism of Crosby, even from the Canadian media, that his interviews are so canned that they almost sound like he’s reading off cue cards. This kid has been managed and manipulated since he was 12 to be the perfect Canadian. I’m sure he’s different with his teammates, but he comes across as a politician when he’s on-camera.
My wife commented on how cold he and Malkin were to each other in the hand shake line. I told her it could just be that they know they’d talk later or that they don’t like each other. I said with Crosby who the hell knows. The kid is like Semin, total enigma.
"You ever use smelling salts, every time you type a bad blog?" Brooks Laich
Maybe Letterman should do a “top 10 reasons Crosby turned down being on the show” instead. I think that would be more funny, actually.
Seconded. I’d like to see that. But I’m sure Letterman doesn’t want to burn any bridges in case he wants to have Sid on the show again….ok I can’t believe I typed that with a straight face – Letterman could give a crap about pissing off any of his guests.
Founding member of the Tyler Sloan Fan Club
Letterman loves to annoy folks who snub his show, up to and including an active presidential candidate (i.e. John McCain). Sid’s really not on his radar. He should be spreading the word about hockey though, if he is an ambassador to the game. I guess he’s just three of the letters in ambassador…
Let's go Caps!
MBA? I didn’t know Sid had gone to business school. Is there anything he can’t do?
Atta dinnin stick a who!
by Gould Old Days on Mar 7, 2010 2:49 PM EST up reply actions
So it wasn’t “sad” either? But he has such big eyes and pouty lips…
Atta dinnin stick a who!
by Gould Old Days on Mar 7, 2010 6:08 PM EST up reply actions 2 recs
I can guarantee you one thing, Sidney Crosby would never do something so childish.
-Scott Burnside
Of all our iniquities ignorance may be the worst
by Killer_Carlson on Mar 7, 2010 7:36 PM EST up reply actions
To go with the media part of the conversation -
Ryan Miller is going to be on the Today Show tomorrow morning.
"You ever use smelling salts, every time you type a bad blog?" Brooks Laich
I hate Today Show (well, all morning shows), but does anyone know if they make downloads of these segments for iPods available?
Kung-fu Rink Rabbit
The Blood Cult of Matt Bradley. Tune in Wednesday when Japers Rink offers their first burnt offering to Matt Bradley to give him an endless supply of the blood for his strident ways.
These days, it’s always a rush to judge this, that or the other player from this era the greatest ever. If it’s not Crosby/Ovechkin, it’s Lebron James/Kobe Bryant, it’ Alex Rodriguez/Barry Bonds, it’s Peyton Manning/Tom Brady, it’s Tiger Woods/uh… fill in the blank.
Starkey’s right, Russell IS the greatest player in the history of professional basketball, not all for winning 11 titles, but for doing it with assorted rosters over the years he won. But the verdict on Russell wasn’t in until his body of work was complete. And Chamberlain did suffer from being on some of the worst teams imaginable. Going to argue that Al Attles was as good as Sam Jones? Tom Meschery was as good as John Havlicek? Good luck with that.
These clubs are probably about to hit the peak of their developmental cycles. Starting last year, when both clubs could legitimately be called contenders, there is probably a 6-8 year window for them to settle the matter. After one year, it isn’t settled.
If you've read this far...seek help.
by ThePeerless on Mar 7, 2010 1:12 PM EST up reply actions 3 recs
Tiger/Elin/SUV
Of course the SUV is coming off a defeat to Brendan Witt…
Let's go Caps!
by MikeL-Caps on Mar 7, 2010 6:04 PM EST up reply actions 1 recs
OK, we’ve seen two games with the new guys. In the first, Belanger centered Flash and Fehr. In the second, he centered Laich and Semin. Any opinions about who he had better chemistry with?
Atta dinnin stick a who!
Interesting question. I didn’t see the BUF game, so I can’t really compare.
Regarding last night, I didn’t think the second line was particularly stellar. They all seemed to be thinking rather than playing on instinct, but their prodigious talent did in the end produce the goal.
I’d stick Belanger back on the second line for the time being, if only because BMo has been so bad lately.
"You want to start being part of the Rink? Fine, but more’s expected of you than John/Jane Cap Fan. Carry the cause of informed discussion to the unwashed masses and don’t crap in the yards of other SBN sites if you decide to go over there. They’re passionate about their teams too, no need to troll elsewhere and/or be a sore winner." --BP
I really thought Belanger clicked more with Laich rather than Semin. Semin seemed a bit lost to start with it, but that could just be the fact that Semin has seemed a bit lost lately.
Founding member of the Tyler Sloan Fan Club
It’s too bad, because historically Brendan Morrison is clearly the better player.
Atta dinnin stick a who!
by Gould Old Days on Mar 7, 2010 10:32 AM EST up reply actions
Right with you. I’d like to see BMo get another game to reflect on things, and then put him back in there to see if the time off gives him a spark. Going forward and in the playoffs, a productive BMo is clearly the best outcome for the success of the team.
"You want to start being part of the Rink? Fine, but more’s expected of you than John/Jane Cap Fan. Carry the cause of informed discussion to the unwashed masses and don’t crap in the yards of other SBN sites if you decide to go over there. They’re passionate about their teams too, no need to troll elsewhere and/or be a sore winner." --BP
I’m sure B Mo will be back and better. He is likely our 2nd line center for the rest of the year.
Rocking the Red since 1975
I wish I could be sure of that. At first it was just a little slump, then it was a big slump, then it became ‘oh man he looks tired, the Olympic break will do him worlds of good,’ after all that time off he still looked just as dreadful the last two games before the scratch. I am a big fan of BMo, and I’m really hoping he pulls out of this tailspin. But I’m not ready to proclaim him our second line center for the rest of the year just yet.
by BradleyFightingVehicle on Mar 7, 2010 10:59 AM EST up reply actions
I’d leave Belanger there (2nd line) at the moment. Would not be surprised if B Mo is pressing.
Rocking the Red since 1975
For now, don’t you have to leave Belanger on the 2nd after a big goal with that line? He’s got the disadvantage of working with spacey (but not penalty prone yet) Semin as opposed to the absolute animal Morrison was working with. Morrison 3rd and rotate out the 4th line centers.
erskine has scored...now i can die in peace
I prefer BMo at least centering the 3rd line vs. Flash being pressed into that duty. Leave Belanger on the 2nd to see what he can do for now. I feel like once Ovie/Lars/Semin break out of their funks we’re going to destroy a few teams down the stretch. Dallas tomorrow seems a likely candidate to get steamrolled.
by Davethecapsfan on Mar 7, 2010 4:31 PM EST up reply actions
I’m not sure motivation is the problem. Dude’s a gamer, and I think he’s been pressing. My worry is that the problem is physical capabilities at this point.
If two weeks off didn’t do it, I’m not sure a couple more games will.
Atta dinnin stick a who!
by Gould Old Days on Mar 7, 2010 11:10 AM EST up reply actions
The time off is only to eliminate the possbility that it’s complacency that’s the issue. I’m not saying it is, but it’s basically my last shred of hope.
"You want to start being part of the Rink? Fine, but more’s expected of you than John/Jane Cap Fan. Carry the cause of informed discussion to the unwashed masses and don’t crap in the yards of other SBN sites if you decide to go over there. They’re passionate about their teams too, no need to troll elsewhere and/or be a sore winner." --BP
I’m with you. Motivation is not the factor unless he’s distracted by something in personal life. The guy is a former capatin and his motivation has never been questioned. I think a game or two on the shelf is just what is needed.
I might add I know three other Caps who could use a game or two of rest. I’d rather go without our 3 offensive stud forwards and chance losing a meaningless game or two now and get them rested.
"You ever use smelling salts, every time you type a bad blog?" Brooks Laich
I think you’re correct in your last point. I also think it’s never going to happen.
"You want to start being part of the Rink? Fine, but more’s expected of you than John/Jane Cap Fan. Carry the cause of informed discussion to the unwashed masses and don’t crap in the yards of other SBN sites if you decide to go over there. They’re passionate about their teams too, no need to troll elsewhere and/or be a sore winner." --BP
And I totally agree that its never going to happen.
"You ever use smelling salts, every time you type a bad blog?" Brooks Laich
I’m just worried that he’s lost his legs, that what it looks like some nights. He’s older, coming off a bunch of surgeries last year, he may just be a few steps off his game. Unfortunately in the playoffs you can’t afford to be a step off.
by BradleyFightingVehicle on Mar 7, 2010 12:40 PM EST up reply actions
Belanger got the goal, which was nice, but other than that shift, in both games, he’s looked pretty out of place.
(Funny story: right before the goal, I turned to my fried and said “This line just doesn’t work at all.” 10 seconds later I said, “My bad.”)
But seriously, whether it’s skills or he needs more time to adjust, Belanger hasn’t converted me yet. To me, going into the playoffs, I say you put Flash back centering the 2nd. That line worked (during a 14-game winning streak, no less) better than any other we’ve had this year. BMo or Belanger centering Chimera and Fehr is a great 3rd line either way.
I’m digging his speed on the backcheck thus far.
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I’m digging his speed period. Semin needs someone that can skate at his pace, otherwise his moodiness and petulance (which leads to streakiness) is only aggravated. Morrison couldn’t keep up; Fleischmann was simply too much of a defensive liability.
I thought last night’s lines were the best they’ve thrown out there since early in the season when everyone was clicking even without Ovechkin (and definitively so if you add the improvements in the defensive pairings).
The 2nd and 3rd lines will only look better when Ovechkin fully works through the incredible weight he’s put on himself for Russia’s failure in the Olympics (and to a lesser extent, Backstrom).
He’s 31, so it’s still too early to think elder statesman discount, in the same way that the Caps could with Walker and/or Knuble, who are the team’s only members of the 35+ club, by my count.
I’m sure signing him is all dependent on how much his asking price will be, what the team’s cap numbers look like, and his performance going forward in the postseason. Or, additionally, the relative value he brings to the team versus what can be obtained via a trade. (After all, if we were offered the entire Kings roster for Ovie, we’d pull the trigger.)
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He said he’s looking for a long term contract. Older guys on long term contracts hasn’t worked out so well for the Caps, but he won’t be getting a NMC, so that might make things a little more palatable. Whats long term for GMGM? I’d bet, if he performs well, 2 years. We’ll see what Belanger thinks of the team…
by The Jade Donkey on Mar 7, 2010 9:52 PM EST up reply actions
*haven’t. I hate this auto correct function. It hardly aids me at all, just helps me make more mistakes.
by The Jade Donkey on Mar 7, 2010 9:53 PM EST up reply actions
FYI: 10 more goals and the Caps will have outscored the Redskins on the season
Karl Alzner + John Carlson = Carl Carlson!
by wipps on Mar 7, 2010 11:52 AM EST reply actions 2 recs
I like this.
Every time Nicky scores a goal, an angel gets its wings.
by SeattleCapsFan on Mar 7, 2010 12:29 PM EST up reply actions
Just for fun, here’s a Capgeek for next year. Numbers I made up are in bold. I put Beagle in because his number is bigger than Perrault’s or Wilson’s or Aucoin’s.
AUTO-GENERATED CAPGEEK.COM LINES
FORWARDS
Alexander Ovechkin ($9.538m) / * Nicklas Backstrom ($6.500m) / Alexander Semin ($6.000m)
Mike Knuble ($2.800m) / * 2nd line center ($2.500m) / Brooks Laich ($2.067m)
* Tomas Fleischmann ($2.000m) / Jason Chimera ($1.875m) / Dave Steckel ($1.100m)
Matt Bradley ($1.000m) / * Eric Fehr ($0.900m) / * Jay Beagle ($0.875m)
* Boyd Gordon ($0.850m)
DEFENSEMEN
Mike Green ($5.250m) / Tom Poti ($3.500m)
* Joe Corvo ($2.800m) / Karl Alzner ($1.675m)
* Jeff Schultz ($1.500m) / John Erskine ($1.250m)
John Carlson ($0.846m)
GOALTENDERS
Michal Neuvirth ($0.822m) / Simeon Varlamov ($0.822m)
CAPGEEK.COM TOTALS
ROSTER: 22; PAYROLL: $56.469m; CAP ROOM: $1.181m BONUSES: $0.850m
As always, Capgeek lines are not real lines…
Atta dinnin stick a who!
Does less than $1 for Fehr sound doable?
Winterion Game Studios
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No way, especially since he’s likely to hit 20 goals. I’d guess $1.5.
"Now wait a minute. This is just purely a social call. You know, just two adults getting a stew on, man."
If you're tired and want to take a nap, check out my graduate research blog! https://digitalcommons.georgetown.edu/blogs/jmc333/
by The Ghost of Bebop on Mar 7, 2010 12:16 PM EST up reply actions
The team has RFA rights and can give him a qualifying offer which would be around that much. He can try going to arbitration to bump it up a little more, but he’s got a tough case to prove.
If he gets more than $1m, it’s likely because the team has re-signed him to a multiyear extension.
"First Lady, I'm sorry I pimp slapped you into that china cabinet."
Salary cap’s going down. It’s going to be a tough year for RFAs who think they’re going to get offer sheets.
Atta dinnin stick a who!
by Gould Old Days on Mar 7, 2010 2:01 PM EST up reply actions
It’s doing down noticeably? I thought I heard flat/no change, but I haven’t read as much on it as I’d like to.
"First Lady, I'm sorry I pimp slapped you into that china cabinet."
Latest I’ve heard was (1) it’s not as bad as people thought (there were unfounded fears it would go down 10 million), and (2) revenues versus last year are basically flat. But people forget the players kicked in an “escalator” (i.e., everyone with a contract reduces their salaries so free agents can get more money) last year. If revenues are flat, they’ll either have to do that again, or the cap will go down.
Atta dinnin stick a who!
by Gould Old Days on Mar 7, 2010 2:51 PM EST up reply actions
What is the current situation on the TV deals the league has? You’d think with all the buzz over the Olympics the next time the TV deal has to get renewed would be the perfect time for the league to get more national exposure. Hockey is pretty “hot” right now.
by Davethecapsfan on Mar 7, 2010 2:54 PM EST up reply actions
The deal with Versus expires after the 2010-2011 season. Not sure about the NBC situation.
by sixsevenfiftysix on Mar 7, 2010 2:59 PM EST up reply actions
The NHL should pray that we win the Cup either this year or next, and that they get Caps/Pens in the playoffs this year and next. Best chance for a bigger national presence.
by Davethecapsfan on Mar 7, 2010 3:01 PM EST up reply actions
Yeah, a playoff-successful Chicago would be good for the league too.
by sixsevenfiftysix on Mar 7, 2010 3:03 PM EST up reply actions
I’d love to see our O feast on Huet/Niemi
by Davethecapsfan on Mar 7, 2010 3:06 PM EST up reply actions
I’m sure you’ll see the same comment about Caps goalies spread across the internet.
Chicago got a lot further than expected last year and its very reasonable to expect they will be a strong contender for the cup this year as well.
Both deals expire at the same time. You’ll recall this past offseason how the NHL and NBC negotiated a two year extension of their agreement, so this season and next, and both cable and broadcast deals are up for grabs—no doubt a move to encourage ESPN/ABC to bid for the rights.
CИДHИЙ KPOCБИЙ: АЛEKCAHДP OBEЧKИH, OH CEЙЧAC TBOЙ ПAПA
by red army line on Mar 7, 2010 3:07 PM EST up reply actions
Also, to tie into the second part of your comment, the NHL will stage another World Cup before the 2011 season (for the new rights holder to televise). Good move.
by sixsevenfiftysix on Mar 7, 2010 3:00 PM EST up reply actions
Unfortunately, I think Backs walks home with a good bit more than that.
by DrinkingPartner on Mar 7, 2010 1:22 PM EST up reply actions
Yikes. Doesn’t leave much room for that Volchenkov that I was hoping would be under the tree, does it?
The only thing I really see that could be dramatically different is not re-signing Corvo. But that still won’t give enough cap room to make a REAL splash.
by sixsevenfiftysix on Mar 7, 2010 2:13 PM EST up reply actions
Volchenkov is not going anywhere. Do we really need to make a splash? You have to figure our D is going to be better just having Alzner and Carlson up full time next year. You’ll definitely see Green/Schultz/Poti/Carlson/Alzner next year, along with Erskine. I’d still like Erskine to be the #7 guy, so we’ll see what they decide to do with the FA’s to be Corvo/Juice/ShaMo.
by Davethecapsfan on Mar 7, 2010 2:16 PM EST up reply actions
Well, I’d bet Volchenkov is going SOMEWHERE. And his name had been thrown around as a good fit for the Caps/on our wishlist.
The other thing going on here is that whether or not the Caps will be wanting to go into next season with the two kids as goalies is still very much up in the air. I mean, sure, if Varly takes us to the Cup Finals we can clearly say he’s ready to be a number 1 by himself at this point. But what happens if we don’t go anywhere, or Theo shoulders the entire playoff load? There may be a veteran backup signing in order.
by sixsevenfiftysix on Mar 7, 2010 2:21 PM EST up reply actions
I could see that, but I don’t see us giving 4.5 mil to another goalie after this season. I think the kids will be ready this season, hell if Varly didn’t have the injury issues I thought he was taking it over already earlier this season. Holtby just further reinforces why I don’t think we give any serious money to another goalie after this season (outside our organization I mean).
by Davethecapsfan on Mar 7, 2010 2:30 PM EST up reply actions
Oh yeah, definitely not a big time goalie like Theo. I was thinking more of a Brent Johnson type (who actually has a lower cap hit than Neuvy).
by sixsevenfiftysix on Mar 7, 2010 2:34 PM EST up reply actions
Possibly, but in reality I don’t think the organization gains anything next year by having both Neuvy and Holtby down in Hershey. If you’re going to sign a vet backup that’s essentially the scenario that would have to happen (this is all assuming Varly ends up the #1 goalie next year over Neuvy). The basic point is I don’t think it’s good at all to have 2 of the prospects STILL down in Hershey next season.
Truth be told, if Holtby keeps it up he’s going to need to see some time up with the big club so we know what we have and to showcase his value…because if all 3 are NHL caliber at least one of them is going to turn into a valuable bargaining chip in a potential trade.
by Davethecapsfan on Mar 7, 2010 2:45 PM EST up reply actions
Theo’s been inconsistent the last 5 years. His recent string is great, but the real Theo could return at any time. That’s what worries me.
That said, Varly hasn’t exactly looked like Patrick Roy since he returned from injury, so I’m not sure what other choices there will be.
He’s inconsistent, but that means that good Theo is just as much the real Theo as bad Theo. There’s no in between at all with him.
Play him when he’s hot. Bench him when he’s not.
Atta dinnin stick a who!
by Gould Old Days on Mar 7, 2010 12:18 PM EST up reply actions
Play him when he’s hot. Bench him when he’s not.
Exactly, if JT60 is still playing like this when we hit the playoffs, putting him in round 1 is a no brainer, IMO. That said, if he struggles Bruce has got to go with the quick hook to Varly, but as we saw last year he is not afraid to do it. The trick is getting Varly enough games down the stretch while Theo is hot to knock the rust off, so he doesn’t have to do it in the playoffs. I’m not the worried, BB seems on top of it.
by BradleyFightingVehicle on Mar 7, 2010 12:38 PM EST up reply actions
I also think we may have passed the point where this is merely a “hot streak”. The guy’s got serious numbers over the last 6 weeks, this isn’t just a 6-7 game stretch. He’s been the difference in a good way more often than not.
He has a lot to prove this year, particularly in the playoffs – where he loves to play – and he’s in a contract year, which has traditionally been when his performances are the best (as is the case with most players).
I tried to post a link to Theo’s media day interview (during training camp) as a fan shot. Apologies for the formatting. But when I cut and pasted the URL into my browser (and added the h in front, so it was http: etc.), it did open up.
Anyway, he says that he wants to play in the playoffs, and it would be at the back of his mind all year. The interview is about 8:30, so it’s too long to summarize, but it definitely was material to keep me in the Theo lobby.
He pulled off a long stretch like this for the last few months of his last contract as well. Hopefully his 2nd round performance is far better than it was that year.
Of all our iniquities ignorance may be the worst
by Killer_Carlson on Mar 7, 2010 11:40 PM EST up reply actions
I’d wait to see how he and Varly are playing right before the playoffs before making any decision.
Even atheists believe in Matt Wieters
I think its Theo’s net to lose. Varly may come round by the time the playoffs come, but if Theo keeps his play up I don’t think you can sit him. The question is how big a leash has he earned. It all depends on how Varly plays between now and then.
Never underestimate a player who is playing for a contract…
Just trying to capture the spirit of the thing...
by dcsportsfan1 on Mar 7, 2010 1:26 PM EST via mobile up reply actions
JP, saw cobracg’s photos last night at 4am when he first got them up. Some of them are unbelievable. You’re really gonna make his day for using the one of Theo. As always, good work!
Russian Machine Never Breaks - A Hockey Blog Focusing on The Washington Capitals and Their Awesome Russian Superstars: Alex Ovechkin, Alex Semin & Semyon Varlamov.
Yep – love his stuff. He posted a link to it here, so I poached a great one.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
Watching Huet is the same reason I worry about Theodore in the playoffs. Inconsistent goalies are capable of getting hot but at some point they will revert back to that inconsistent play. But I agree with the play him when he’s hot, sit him when he’s not unless Varly can reclaim his form he had before he was injured.
theo hasn’t looked as bad as huet just did in that 2nd period in a while… and at least varlamov has a playoff series win under his belt.
All true…can’t ask any more of Theo than what he’s been doing lately. He looks focused…and when he maintains that he is capable of shutting teams down. Like I said I’d feel comfortable if Varly gets some more games under his belt. I really didn’t think he looked that bad against Tampa couple breakdowns left him out to dry and the team getting complacent in the 3rd.
by Davethecapsfan on Mar 7, 2010 2:05 PM EST up reply actions
that is what i was thinking too…someone made a point during the deadline aftermath threads that theo is at his best when he is promised nothing in terms of playing time. I think bruce needs to play his cards that way so that theo is motivated to perform well and varlamov is prepared to step in should he falter. i imagine thats what’s likely to happen for the stretch.
theo is at his best when he is promised nothing in terms ofplaying timesalary
Just kidding. Kinda.
Of all our iniquities ignorance may be the worst
by Killer_Carlson on Mar 7, 2010 11:44 PM EST up reply actions
In case anyone missed this awesome site that was linked to on Puck Daddy:
Eastern Conference Playoff Chances
Summary: the Bruins have a big leg up on the dogfight for the last two spots, while the Thrashers and Canadiens are absolutely neck and neck after the Canadiens pulled out an unexpected victory and the Thrashers suffered a disappointing defeat yesterday. The Rangers would have to do something special, the Lightning would have to do something special-er, and everyone else is out of the picture.
Check out the Western picture too. It’s an awesome site.
by sixsevenfiftysix on Mar 7, 2010 2:38 PM EST reply actions
http://www.russianmachineneverbreaks.com/2010/03/07/is-alex-ovechkin-the-russian-destroyer/
love it
I've often thought of becoming a golf club
by Caps Canadian Connection on Mar 7, 2010 3:17 PM EST reply actions 1 recs
during the Wings/Hawks game, NBC put forth that Pittsburgh’s third line is the second best in hockey, while the Hawks have the best. I think they’re forgetting about a certain team.
Kung-fu Rink Rabbit
The Blood Cult of Matt Bradley. Tune in Wednesday when Japers Rink offers their first burnt offering to Matt Bradley to give him an endless supply of the blood for his strident ways.
Let them.
"The Caps fan doesn't say, 'is the glass half full' or 'is the glass half empty'. He wonders when the glass is going to spill."
Hmm, not sure our third line is at the same level as the Staal line in Pitt or the Ladd line in Chicago.
it came up in the clips thread yesterday. Offensively, the Cap 3rd line is better than Pitt’s so I was surprised (and not surprised) that NBC didn’t mention them at all. I’m curious what the numbers for Chicago’s 3rd line are.
Kung-fu Rink Rabbit
The Blood Cult of Matt Bradley. Tune in Wednesday when Japers Rink offers their first burnt offering to Matt Bradley to give him an endless supply of the blood for his strident ways.
Ah, missed that – maybe we do! Cool. I think I was questioning it mainly because we haven’t had as much consistency with that 3rd line, so it’s harder to tell. Consider that Flash got a lot of his offense from being on the second line, not the third. Still impressive though, from both teams – good thing our top 2 lines > their top 2 lines, no?
your daily playoff update
east
Washington vs. Montreal
Pittsburgh vs. Boston
Buffalo vs. Philadelphia
New Jersey vs. Ottawa
West
San Jose vs. Detroit
Chicago vs. Nashville
Vancouver vs. Colorado
Phoenix vs. Los Angeles
Kung-fu Rink Rabbit
The Blood Cult of Matt Bradley. Tune in Wednesday when Japers Rink offers their first burnt offering to Matt Bradley to give him an endless supply of the blood for his strident ways.
Both the Buff/Philly and NJ/Ott series would be extremely interesting. I feel like we would handle Montreal and Pitt would handle Boston. If you’re a SJ fan what you do NOT want is Detroit in the 1st round. Phoenix/LA would be tremendous for both of those franchises and their fans.
by Davethecapsfan on Mar 7, 2010 4:10 PM EST up reply actions
Yeah, I’d definitely agree – if I was a SJ fan I’d hope to hell Chicago ends up first seed or Nashville falls down some (assuming those same teams).
I think 8th is still really up for grabs (NYR or ATL for sure has a legit shot), but I think in any case we could handle it. Most interesting matchup I think is Sabres v Flyers… my money’s on Ryan Miller brick-walling the Flyers.
It’ll still be a learning process for us no matter who gets the #8 seed (assuming we win the East although if we keep winning the window for anyone else to even have a shot at it will be closed shortly). I’d love to see us bear down and NOT go to a Game 7 for once and get out of the 1st round in 5 or 6 games.
by Davethecapsfan on Mar 7, 2010 4:27 PM EST up reply actions
The window is essentially closed. Even if Pittsburgh doesn’t lose another game this season (which would be 17 in a row), the Caps would need to lose 11 of their remaining 17 games. And I just don’t see that happening.
Kung-fu Rink Rabbit
The Blood Cult of Matt Bradley. Tune in Wednesday when Japers Rink offers their first burnt offering to Matt Bradley to give him an endless supply of the blood for his strident ways.
I think NJ is the only team with any chance of taking the East and even then we have to go on an insane losing streak, as you mentioned. Should be an interesting race at the other end though.
Looking at this, there’s less than a 0.2% chance that we end up with anything other than the first seed in the East. The Presidents’ Trophy is the only thing left in the regular season that we have to worry about.
by sixsevenfiftysix on Mar 7, 2010 4:52 PM EST up reply actions
Any game in Canada this year is gonna be h-e-double hockeysticks for Ovi. But I guess he will just have to get past that.
:(
Now helping to keep an eye on all things Gr8 at Alex Ovetjkin.
Possible reason to root against Montreal making it. I’d rather him have Canadians on American teams rather than having to deal with the ravenous Canadian media.
erskine has scored...now i can die in peace
on the upside to playing in montreal is that CBC broadcasts all the playoff games, so Don Cherry gets to talk about him every game….
Official Ambassador for Nucks Misconduct.
Canadian beer is better than Miller, but I really like my vodka.
Warning: I'm bad at catching on to sarcasm and jokes. Please bare with me.
GO CANUCKS GO!
Atlanta has 3 games in hand on Montreal and is just 2 points back. I say we will see a Wash/Atl first round matchup.
If Popeye got stronger after eating canned Spinach....Imagine what canned Bacon could do for Ovie.......
However, they have a tougher schedule the rest of the way and are now without Kovalchuk. If they lose to Carolina today (as they are now) they’re in deep trouble.
by sixsevenfiftysix on Mar 7, 2010 6:34 PM EST up reply actions
Not-so-fun-fact for Thrashers fans: their last five games are all against either Washington, Pittsburgh, or New Jersey, and the latter two may still have a lot to play for.
by sixsevenfiftysix on Mar 7, 2010 6:37 PM EST up reply actions
We’ll see. It seems that Pittsburgh is super hot and may just bury NJ in the Atlantic.
Rocking the Red since 1975
ran across an interesting stat at Blueshirt Banter: at home this season, the Caps are 24-3-3 (51 pts.). The means they have more points in home games than Edmonton does on the whole season, and more wins than Edmonton and Toronto on the season (20 each. Toronto has 12 OT losses to help push them to 52 points for the season)
Kung-fu Rink Rabbit
The Blood Cult of Matt Bradley. Tune in Wednesday when Japers Rink offers their first burnt offering to Matt Bradley to give him an endless supply of the blood for his strident ways.
Presidents’ Trophy. I want it in DC.
Winterion Game Studios
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Rather have Stanley Cup. But, of course, being good enough for the President’s Trophy gives us home field advantage which is so helpful against tough teams.
Rocking the Red since 1975
Um, I think rather having the Cup goes without saying.
"Now wait a minute. This is just purely a social call. You know, just two adults getting a stew on, man."
If you're tired and want to take a nap, check out my graduate research blog! https://digitalcommons.georgetown.edu/blogs/jmc333/
by The Ghost of Bebop on Mar 7, 2010 11:53 PM EST up reply actions
Cooke just dropped Savard with a hit. Essentially his elbow connected with Savard’s head right after Savard released a shot, but he didn’t have his arm extended from his body. He definitely knew what he was doing though. Not sure how you can call it a penalty b/c it’s as much upper arm/shoulder as elbow the way he kept his arm tucked in but with the emphasis on blows to the head it will get looked at.
Savard could miss serious time. No good for the Bruins.
by sixsevenfiftysix on Mar 7, 2010 5:23 PM EST up reply actions
Not at all…he seemed more coherent than Booth was when he got drilled by Richards. Pretty dirty hit by Cooke…obviously he wasn’t looking to really injure Savard but the intent was there to rock his bells with a head shot.
by Davethecapsfan on Mar 7, 2010 5:24 PM EST up reply actions
I mean…. I’m not saying OMG SAVARD’S OUT FOR THE SEASON, but Savard may very well end up missing a chunk of what’s left. We’ll have to see.
by sixsevenfiftysix on Mar 7, 2010 5:25 PM EST up reply actions
Oh, I apologize if your “not at all” was in agreement with my “No good for the Bruins” bit, I interpreted it as in response to “Savard could miss serious time”.
by sixsevenfiftysix on Mar 7, 2010 5:26 PM EST up reply actions
Yeah I was just reinforcing that…for an offensively challenged team this year that is fighting for a playoff spot losing Savard for any length of time is going to hurt.
by Davethecapsfan on Mar 7, 2010 5:27 PM EST up reply actions
on top of already missing 5 weeks with a minor knee tear. bad season for Savard.
Kung-fu Rink Rabbit
The Blood Cult of Matt Bradley. Tune in Wednesday when Japers Rink offers their first burnt offering to Matt Bradley to give him an endless supply of the blood for his strident ways.
Puck Daddy has a post up, with video, if you haven’t seen it.
Kung-fu Rink Rabbit
The Blood Cult of Matt Bradley. Tune in Wednesday when Japers Rink offers their first burnt offering to Matt Bradley to give him an endless supply of the blood for his strident ways.
That’s a terrible hit from a repeat offender, I don’t see how there isn’t a lengthy suspension.
Of all our iniquities ignorance may be the worst
by Killer_Carlson on Mar 8, 2010 12:24 AM EST up reply actions
Introduction and Backstrom PK play
Hey, I’m new.
Caps fan off and on since the Mike Ridley days. He was my favorite then because I used to have a neighbor by the same name..
Anyways, I haven’t seen this posted yet:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gXCSNXDLv2g
I think Bigfoot is blurry, that's the problem. It's not the photographer's fault. Bigfoot is blurry, and that's extra scary to me. There's a large, out-of-focus monster roaming the countryside.
-Mitch Hedberg
by Given To Fly on Mar 7, 2010 5:24 PM EST reply actions 2 recs
rec’ed for the Mitch Hedberg quote!
Check out FFODC.COM and DCSportsPlus.blogspot.com!
by what Juneau about that? on Mar 8, 2010 1:57 AM EST up reply actions
Oooh! Methinks Cooke will be hearing from the league and taking a spin on the Wheel O’ Justice.
Let's go Caps!
What rule is that against?
Atta dinnin stick a who!
by Gould Old Days on Mar 7, 2010 6:12 PM EST up reply actions
Like the Richards-Booth hit, it’s technically not against any rules. But I still think this one, like the Richards hit, should be suspended because the player doing the hitting got nothing but head, and seemingly looked to do so (obviously can’t tell the intent).
I have to go. But if I find one single dog hair when I get back, I'll rub... sand... in your dead little eyes. I also need you to buy sand. I don't know if they grade it, but... coarse.
by Steckel Me Elmo on Mar 7, 2010 6:38 PM EST up reply actions
Maybe I’m just a crazy lawyer here, but I don’t think you should suspend folks for doing something that isn’t against the rules.
I think Davethecapsfan had this one right from the beginning. It’s not elbowing — he hits shoulder or upper arm first. Not sure what else it would be…except against a rule they need to pass this offseason.
Atta dinnin stick a who!
by Gould Old Days on Mar 7, 2010 6:42 PM EST up reply actions
My stance has always been they need a new rule to protect the head. And regardless of the fact that they don’t have a rule that explicitly outlaws this, I’m pretty certain I’ve seen examples of similar hits going punished (not going to find examples, don’t have time or motivation).
There’s also the fact that the NHL routinely calls for the need and desire to crack down on headshots, and the best way to start is to crack down on hits such as these where the entirety of the hit goes to the head. Even if it is legal by the letter.
I personally don’t put the most weight on the NHL’s rulebook when discussing a suspension considering they themselves can’t even enforce it consistently.
I have to go. But if I find one single dog hair when I get back, I'll rub... sand... in your dead little eyes. I also need you to buy sand. I don't know if they grade it, but... coarse.
by Steckel Me Elmo on Mar 7, 2010 6:45 PM EST up reply actions
Essentially we’re all agreeing that hits like this should be classified in a way where they will be penalized and we see suspensions for guys who continue to deliver them. The only question is what do you do with it right now when it’s something you’re constantly talking about wanting to not see anymore but have no actual rule to enforce.
by Davethecapsfan on Mar 7, 2010 6:49 PM EST up reply actions
I agreed with GOD here that it’s hard to definitively say he catches Savard with an elbow here. It seems pretty obvious he did a little bit, but he didn’t egregiously extend his arm or elbow to do it. I’m not sure it really qualifies as against any current rule…but who know what the Wheel of Justice will spit out.
I do think they need to classify these kind of hits as something illegal because they really should be suspension worthy.
by Davethecapsfan on Mar 7, 2010 6:46 PM EST up reply actions
Why do you suspend people in the first place? To deter people from doing this sort of action. If the league doesn’t want to deter this type of play, I don’t know what its doing. (Not that anyone ever has quite figured that out…)
Just because someone did something really bad, it doesn’t mean you can throw them in jail unless they broke a law.
NHL needs to change the rules. But until they do, I don’t see how Cooke can be suspended for this. It looks to me like a legal, dirty hit. If legal, dirty hits are possible, then there’s something wrong with the rulebook.
Atta dinnin stick a who!
by Gould Old Days on Mar 7, 2010 6:51 PM EST up reply actions
True. Its a slippery slope if you start suspending things that should be penalized.
The only good thing about this play is that it took place a day before the GM meetings start in Toronto. Maybe that will accelerate some rule changes.
No kidding. I think the forces arrayed against headshots just got a nice boost.
Atta dinnin stick a who!
by Gould Old Days on Mar 7, 2010 7:13 PM EST up reply actions
Everyone basically admits that if Richards hit Booth now like he did back in October or November, there’d be a suspension. Cooke is a repeat offender. There’s no way he doesn’t get suspended for that hit. It was a head shot and Savard has what appears to be a serious concussion. Add in the fact that Boston is screaming bloody murder and there’s the league-wide belief that the league already favors the Pens. I say minimum five games and maybe as high as 8-10.
Lost in all of this is the fact that if Savard misses significant time, the B’s are done. They have enough trouble scoring as it is. Cooke may have ended the Bruins season.
As for the hit itself, pretty brutal, borderline legal. I think he will get a suspension just because the NHL has been suspension happy lately. Does it deserve one? I can see both sides, and I agree that if he doesn’t get one, the rule book needs to be changed so that these kind of hits are illegal.
by BradleyFightingVehicle on Mar 7, 2010 7:32 PM EST up reply actions
Everyone seems to be focused on the fact that Cooke didn’t lead with his elbow. The fact is Cooke’s hit isn’t much different from Janssen’s hit on Brads. The puck was nowhere near Savard just as it wasn’t near Brads. Admitedly, Janssen’s hit was much later but they both qualify as interference. Janssen got a game misconduct because of the violence associated with the hit and the intent to injure aspect. The same rule can apply to Cooke, even though no penalty was called.
That was my thought, as well, that at a minimum the refs missed the interference call.
"The Caps fan doesn't say, 'is the glass half full' or 'is the glass half empty'. He wonders when the glass is going to spill."
I don’t think there was any interference involved. Savard was hit just after the release of his shot, so Cooke was essentially finishing his check. Problem was he hit him in the head. It seemed to me that he subtly stuck his elbow out to make contact instead of lowering his shoulder. If he lowers his shoulder, his elbow probably does not make contact with Savard’s head. Ultimately I think this a shot to the head that deserves a suspension.
As far as my two cents on what the NHL should do about head shots is essentially expand the Roughing infraction. As it stands, Roughing is just a punching motion to the head with a hand or fist. Instead, they should treat Roughing almost like High Sticking where any blow to the head is a penalty regardless of the hit was intentional or not. This gives some freedom for the ref to assess a penalty depending on the severity of the injury, just like they do with High Sticking penalties. This may not be the best solution, but I think at the very least it would be a step in the right direction, and they could tweak it as they see fit.
Mike green got suspended for a shoulder/forearm to the head and he’s anything but a repeat offender. Given that precident, I predict nothing for Cooke. Sad part is, Cooke had him lined up for a good old legal shoulder to shoulder hit. I’m sure he’ll say it happened to fast blah blah blah.
If the gm’s and nhlpa don’t address this in the offseason, they are just burying their heads in the sand.
Just trying to capture the spirit of the thing...
by dcsportsfan1 on Mar 7, 2010 7:55 PM EST via mobile up reply actions
HER losing to ADR 2-1 after 2 periods. Neuvi in goal.
Now helping to keep an eye on all things Gr8 at Alex Ovetjkin.
atdhe.net has a link for anyone who wants to watch.
by sixsevenfiftysix on Mar 7, 2010 6:47 PM EST up reply actions
Three Stars:
1. HER – K. Aucoin
2. HER – C. Bourque
3. HER – Z. Miskovic
Now helping to keep an eye on all things Gr8 at Alex Ovetjkin.
Pothier got his 1st point as a ’Cane. He shot it on net and Jussi Jokinen tipped it in for a PP goal.
Только игра! Почему надо быть сумасшедший?
What a terrible weekend for the Thrashers. Yikes.
by sixsevenfiftysix on Mar 7, 2010 7:25 PM EST up reply actions
Moves the Caps closer to the division title… not that it’s a real question, but the sooner, the better…
Let's go Caps!
Well, I’d rather have a more favorable first round matchup than clinch the division like, four days earlier… but in any case, I wasn’t wearing my “Caps fan” hat* when I wrote that comment—more of my “compassionate human being” hat.
*I’d have used pants instead of hats, but we all know Caps fans don’t wear pants
by sixsevenfiftysix on Mar 7, 2010 9:20 PM EST up reply actions
True enough. A good playoff matchup might be Atlanta… but Tampa would be a good opening round match up too.
Let's go Caps!
Tampa’s a goner. If they somehow make it to the playoffs, it’ll be because they play absurd hockey over the rest of the season.
by sixsevenfiftysix on Mar 7, 2010 9:24 PM EST up reply actions
I don’t think tampa’s gonna make it either, but it wouldn’t be good for the Caps if they did. They always show up against the Caps, and even though the Caps take it to em most every time, eventually they’ll be due. Know what I’m saying? Over a seven game series it might not matter much, but frankly I’m sick of watching the Caps go to Game 7. 4 and done, take a rest, and avoid late night talk shows. Jiggy, you bonehead.
by The Jade Donkey on Mar 7, 2010 9:32 PM EST up reply actions
Caps went 2-1-1 against the Canadiens with one win in the shootout. I’m hoping its anyone but them or Tampa.
I’ve said this around here before, but in all seriousness—if we’d be struggling in a seven game series with any of Boston, Montreal, Atlanta, New York, or Tampa, it doesn’t matter. We’re not winning the Cup anyway if that’s the case.
by sixsevenfiftysix on Mar 8, 2010 12:39 AM EST up reply actions
Yeah, I’ve seen you say that a few times. I agree, if any of those teams take us to 7, 6 even, we prolly wont get past the EC Finals.
I think the Capitals need to down the 8th seed in 4 games, in order to gain another number 1 seed in the next round; I am pretty sure NJ or Pittsburgh will down one of their teams in that fashion. Whoever we get in 2nd round will prolly be pretty decent, hopefully the Caps can drop them in 4 or 5. I think 4 is prolly realistic cause some of the bottom teams in the tournament in the East are pretty mediocre, and someone is gonna get upset.
The Caps neeeeeed the practice between the series to stay up-to-snuff. Last POs, BB didnt have them practice very hard, and i think that hurt them.
As far as the finals go, I have no idea who the Caps may meet. . .Detroit could step it up, and if they were all healthy. . .SJ could exorcise their play-off demons, and would prolly win the WC if they did. However, The Sharks have play off troubles, Healtey does, Thornton does, and Nabovok all have streaky play offs. . .doesnt look good.
I think it’ll prolly be ChiTown out of the WC, with LA, Phoenix, and Nashville all playing darkhorse
sorry this got rly long
Bah-Ram-Ewe, Ovechkin will wreck you. Fear the Furious Fleece!
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![Via @Mastro72, great video of an incident during today's scrimmage between goaltender Braden Holtby and forward Evgeny Kuznetsov. Bruce Boudreau had this to say about it: "I think we'll have a word with Kuznetsov. Because in North America you can't taunt or make funny moves. When he did that, he was having fun maybe, but he gave a little taunt to Holtby. After [the goal], he sort of went, 'Ooooh' and laughed him. That's not going to go well with North American people. ...And I'm going to have a little chat with Holtby."](http://cdn3.sbnation.com/fan_shot_images/131751/2_small.jpg)
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Southeast Standings
| GP | W | L | OTL | PT | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Washington
|
82 | 54 | 15 | 13 | 121 |
|
Atlanta
|
82 | 35 | 34 | 13 | 83 |
|
Carolina
|
82 | 35 | 37 | 10 | 80 |
|
Tampa Bay
|
82 | 34 | 36 | 12 | 80 |
|
Florida
|
82 | 32 | 37 | 13 | 77 |
(updated 4.12.2010 at 9:21 AM EDT)
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