Capital Ups and Downs: Week 28
by J.P. on Apr 26, 2010 11:04 AM EDT
in Capitals Ups and Downs
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PrintOur weekly look at individual Washington Capitals' ups and downs:
| Goalies | Trend | Notes |
| Jose Theodore |  |
Stapled to the bench at the moment, but taking it like a pro... as expected. |
| Semyon Varlamov |  |
The best player in the series so far, Varly's 20-save second period in Game 4 highlights a 2-1/2.01/.936 week. He's the biggest reason the Caps are looking to close out the Habs tonight, rather than fighting to stay alive. |
| Defensemen | ||
| John Carlson | |
No heroics this week, just more solid play and more plusses - Carlson has had a rating of plus-one or better in each of the five games so far, and is plus-eight for the series, having been on the ice for just one goal against in 83:47 of even-strength ice time (third-most among Caps rearguards). Stud. |
| Joe Corvo |  |
No points and a minus-one rating while playing two-thirds of the week paired with Tyler Sloan as his regular partner, Shaone Morrisonn, recovered from a minor injury. |
| John Erskine | |
Eighth (at best) on the depth chart against Montreal, but could be seventh if the Caps are fortunate enough to advance to face Philly. Huzzah? |
| Mike Green | |
Green continues to struggle mightily, both offensively (goal-less, two assists and a primary reason for a woeful 4.2% effective power-play) and defensively (on the ice for six of Montreal's nine even-strength goals in the series). Green has now gone 13 playoff games without a goal and is minus-three in that span. But hey, that Norris nomination is nice. |
| Milan Jurcina |  |
Sure could use Juice, eh? |
| Shaone Morrisonn | |
Definitely missed in the third-pairing, but should be good-to-go for tonight. |
| Tom Poti | |
Poti's post-season performance continues to impress, as he notched another three assists and a plus-seven rating in three games this week. Like Carlson, he has been on the ice for just one even-strength goal against in more than 80 minutes of ice time. The two Massachusetts natives have been the Caps' best pairing, and it's not close. |
| Jeff Schultz | |
Like Green, has been on the ice for too many goals against, but has been better since Game 2. |
| Tyler Sloan | |
If "not completely embarrassing himself" is the bar for acceptability, Sloan cleared it in his two games this week... but not by a lot. |
| Forwards | ||
| Nicklas Backstrom | |
Had a big Game 4 (one goal, two assists, plus-four), but sputtered a bit in the games before and especially after, as his line was on the ice for both goals against in Game 5. And, of course, he shares in the blame for the horrid power play success. But of all the players to worry about going forward, Nick is at the bottom of the list. |
| Eric Belanger |  |
His second line has been awful offensively, but given what he went through on Friday night, he gets a Purple Heart. |
| Matt Bradley | |
Scored an icing-on-the-cake goal in Game 3, assisted on the eventual game-winner in Game 4. |
| Jason Chimera | |
Scored the Game 4 winner and wasn't on the ice for a goal against all week. Given his role (fourth-liner, for the moment), it's hard to ask for much more. |
| Eric Fehr | |
Had a goal and an assist in Game 3, but still gets minimal minutes. How minimal? Alex Ovechkin is averaging just five minutes less per game than the 27:37 Fehr got all week. Is shortening the bench this much really conducive to a long and successful playoff run? |
| Tomas Fleischmann | |
You know Flash is stinkin' the joint up when even Gabby sees it and does something about it (like benching him in Game 5). Flash is a pretty worthless hockey player when he's not producing anything offensively... and he's not producing anything offensively. |
| Boyd Gordon | |
Game-changing shorty in Game 3. Assist on game-changing shorty in Game 4. 37:35 of total ice time (including 11:29 shorthanded) in the series without being on the ice for a goal against. 77.1% of his face-offs won. It's nice to see a guy raise his game when it matters, isn't it? |
| Mike Knuble | |
Potted that Game 4 shorty (and had a second goal in the game) and created the havoc that helped Gordo's Game 3 tally. Knuble now has at least a point in all five games, but... he has been on the ice for three of the last four Habs goals, five of the last seven, and nine of the 14 the Canadiens have scored in the series (two while shorthanded). You'd like to see those numbers improve going forward. |
| Brooks Laich | |
Scored Game 3's eventual game-winner, but has been a minus-one in three of the five games and is third among forwards in ice time for the struggling power-play (though, in fairness to Laich, if the team can't establish the point shots with the extra man, there's not much he can do to help the unit). Among those who need to be better. |
| Quintin Laing | |
Perhaps he can recommend a good oral surgeon to Belanger. |
| Brendan Morrison | |
As little as he's bringing to the table right now (one assist, five shots on goal and a minus-one rating in the series), you have to wonder how healthy David Steckel is. |
| Alex Ovechkin | |
On a four-game point streak with four goals, an assist and a plus-three rating this week, AO is still finding it tough to get his shots on goal - his ten shots in three games is well below his season average (though his six shots on Friday night give reason for optimism). Expect big things tonight... as you do every night from the world's best player. |
| Alexander Semin | |
Admit it - you skipped straight to this when you started reading the post. Semin's defenders will point to his 29 shots on goal (most in the League of any player with five or fewer games played) and say that it's only a matter of time. But here's the reality: Ovechkin is the only player in the NHL with more goals per game over the past two regular seasons than Semin (minimum 100 games played), and the latter has now gone a dozen playoff games without lighting the lamp. That's simply unacceptable. On the plus side, Semin has yet to be on the ice for an even-strength goal against in the series and hasn't taken a penalty since Game Two, so at least he's only killing the Caps at one end of the rink. |
| David Steckel | |
Healthy? Hurt? Either way, the Caps could use some of the magic that saw Stecks pot three goals in the Pittsburgh series last spring. |
| Scott Walker | |
An energy guy like Walker could be the perfect spark for a Caps team in need of one. |
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Awesome that Belanger gets the PH. He deserves it next week too, even if he doesn’t get any more injuries. Losing eight freaking teeth and then finishing the game… wow. Loved the suggestion that Laing would know an oral surgeon….Laing probably knows half the doctors in the Ballston area.
Also, Semin is playing well in the defensive end, his breaking up the near-breakaway in the first period Friday was a terrific effort. I hate to break up Gordon-Knuble on the PK, but maybe Gordon-Semin might get Semin a chance for a shorty… if he buries it, then the goals will come in bunches (they usually do for Sasha).
Is Walker the spark this team needs? Not sure…. but tonight might be a night to find out…
Let's go Caps!
HE LOST 8 TEETH!?! Wow, I had no idea it was that many…where have I been?
Every time the Swedish Swashbuckler scores a goal, an angel gets its wings.
by SeattleCapsFan on Apr 26, 2010 11:46 AM EDT up reply actions
The number keeps shifting but it’s definitely seven or eight. He has his “exposed roots trimmed” during the game and several hours of oral surgery on Saturday.
Bergeron has called him to apologize, but I’m still irked the Caps let that game slip away.
Now helping to keep an eye on all things Gr8 at Alex Ovetjkin.
Bergeron didn’t really need to apologize, it was definately inadvertent. That kind of play isn’t something that MAB does on any sort of regular basis. Still a classy gesture.
Let's go Caps!
by MikeL-Pivonka on Apr 26, 2010 12:02 PM EDT up reply actions
I think that’s the point though. Intentional or not, when you knock out 8 teeth, particularly a guy you’ve played with, a [hone call to say you’re sorry is the right thing to do. There are some people who wouldn’t do that.
Kung-fu Rink Rabbit
Donate to the Rink Pledge Drive for SAVES FOR KIDS, PLAYOFF EDITION!
If it had been on purpose he wouldn’t have felt the need to make that call.
Now helping to keep an eye on all things Gr8 at Alex Ovetjkin.
under a rock? (j/k) Steinberg and CI both have coverage of it, and the Caps have a video up from either Saturday or Sunday or Belanger talking to reporters with a very fat lip, sporting stitches, and clearly missing teeth. he looked to be in pain.
Kung-fu Rink Rabbit
Donate to the Rink Pledge Drive for SAVES FOR KIDS, PLAYOFF EDITION!
Thesis rock…yup.
No I saw the video of him pulling his tooth during the game, heard about the exposed roots (my mouth hurts just thinking about it) and knew he’s lost a couple, but didn’t realize it was 8. That’s a buttload of teeth.
Hockey players rock.
Every time the Swedish Swashbuckler scores a goal, an angel gets its wings.
by SeattleCapsFan on Apr 26, 2010 12:12 PM EDT up reply actions
been under that thesis rock, I feel your pain! (I miss school, I don’t miss the hermit-like restrictions I had to place on myself to get work done)
as Steinberg said, “soft” is a relative concept in the NHL.
Kung-fu Rink Rabbit
Donate to the Rink Pledge Drive for SAVES FOR KIDS, PLAYOFF EDITION!
yay green arrow for Poti (why the hell does he not play this well all the time?! his inconsistency drives me nuts), and a very well deserved purple heart for Belanger. From the pressbox, Q smiles in appreciation of Belly’s sacrifice.
Kung-fu Rink Rabbit
Donate to the Rink Pledge Drive for SAVES FOR KIDS, PLAYOFF EDITION!
Poti, imo, excels when he’s divested of any pressure to be the ‘offense’ guy on a D pairing. And Carlson is a pretty decent prospect…
Some people die just a little.
by bigonetimer on Apr 26, 2010 11:12 AM EDT up reply actions
It’s the Massachussetts connection. They are like Voltron when paired together.
I like the Washington Capitals.
by bigeugene on Apr 26, 2010 12:44 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
Voltron FTW.
Great. Now I have to change my name to "Jaromir meet Alex".
by Chris meet Alex on Apr 26, 2010 1:59 PM EDT up reply actions
Poti is the Pippin to Carlson’s Jordan. I think this pairing could be epic, for a long playoff run.
Great. Now I have to change my name to "Jaromir meet Alex".
by Chris meet Alex on Apr 26, 2010 11:25 AM EDT up reply actions
I know it’s early, but I’ll drink to this.
Some people die just a little.
by bigonetimer on Apr 26, 2010 11:32 AM EDT up reply actions
.
Btw, the creepy dasher ads that grow beards get a
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
by J.P. on Apr 26, 2010 11:08 AM EDT reply actions 3 recs
Definitely do. I hate those things. Anything that is advertised with those ruins their chances of me using the product being advertised. Sorry, OT.
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 Apr 26, 2010 11:11 AM EDT up reply actions
There is a lot of negative press about Semin’s offensive slump; but at least he is he does not have a goal against and clearly saved a goal as mentioned in an earlier comment. It is really surprising to see how little has been written about Green’s struggle. He has been absolutely HORRIBLE in this series. Forget about the offense. But his defense is virtually non-existent.It is really scary whenever he is on the ice and there is breakaway. Our PP will come along; but I’m more worried about our defense for us to go deep into playoffs.
psssssssssst, a nifty little avatar would make your post even better.
Kung-fu Rink Rabbit
Donate to the Rink Pledge Drive for SAVES FOR KIDS, PLAYOFF EDITION!
Yeah, get one up there soon, otherwise BP and the Avatar Police will come get ya…
O.o
Let's go Caps!
by MikeL-Pivonka on Apr 26, 2010 12:03 PM EDT up reply actions
I’ve been trying to avoid all the writing about how much Green sucks and the analysts chewing him apart. Where do you see that it hasn’t been covered a lot?
Plenty in this post about both of them.
I look to the future because that's where I'm going to spend the rest of my life.
Borrowing a phrase from this post: Admit it, there is a lot more negative press about Semin showing up in this series than Green. All Green related press about his Norris trophy worthiness; not about the current playoff series.
I think ti would be even easier for the press to rip on Green, if Duncan Keith, anointed Norris Trophy winner before the season even started, wasn’t performing even worse.
Kung-fu Rink Rabbit
Donate to the Rink Pledge Drive for SAVES FOR KIDS, PLAYOFF EDITION!
I don’t have anything to admit. I’m not seeing the huge disparity like you are. I’ve read plenty about them both sucking. Versus dedicated almost an entire game on ripping Green to pieces. I’m not sure that this matters though.
Why do you want more negative press anyway? I don’t see what is being won here.
I look to the future because that's where I'm going to spend the rest of my life.
maybe he’s an undercover poster for BSH? Go Flyerz!
Kung-fu Rink Rabbit
Donate to the Rink Pledge Drive for SAVES FOR KIDS, PLAYOFF EDITION!
BSH = Broad Street Hockey, the Flyer Blog in this family of blogs. They have some thoughtful writers and commentors…
And they have MarioD.
Let's go Caps!
by MikeL-Pivonka on Apr 26, 2010 12:04 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
I love how MarioD is thrown in there almost as an insult. Nice.
Every time the Swedish Swashbuckler scores a goal, an angel gets its wings.
by SeattleCapsFan on Apr 26, 2010 12:14 PM EDT up reply actions
There’s no insult being made or implied. Merely a statement of fact. I thnk it goes against SBNation’s terms of service to call out another member….
Let's go Caps!
by MikeL-Pivonka on Apr 26, 2010 12:14 PM EDT up reply actions
Semin and Dany Heatley are the only 35-plus goal scorers from the regular season playing in the playoffs who have yet to pot one.
If you've read this far...seek help.
If it was just five games, I’d be less concerned. But it’s twelve.
Also, I’d be less concerned if the Caps were where Dany Heatley is right now – waiting for Round 2 to start.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
by J.P. on Apr 26, 2010 11:18 AM EDT up reply actions 2 recs
And Heatley missed a game with injury so he’s only played 4. And Craig Anderson is playing much better than Fresh Meat Halak is.
I hate listening to people's dreams. It is like flipping through a stack of photographs. If I'm not in any of them and nobody is having sex, I just don't care.
Though we’re led to believe Semin was injured for the entire Penguins series, so that 12-straight number might need that particular asterisk.
My ability to post is only surpassed by my ability to pinch pennies.
I guess. But if the complaint during the regular season was that you can’t count on Semin for the playoffs because of a combination of frailty and inconsistency then the asterisk isn’t quite as big. So yeah, he gets some slack for the injury, but 12 games is still entirely too long for him to be scoreless. We were afraid that he could go quiet for 1 series and we’d be in trouble. Now he’s quiet for almost 2 straight.
I hate listening to people's dreams. It is like flipping through a stack of photographs. If I'm not in any of them and nobody is having sex, I just don't care.
While we can beat this to death, the bottom line is that while Semin has been solid defensively and was a lot more involved in game five, he needs to score and he needs to start tonight. What concerns me is that it seems to be getting to him mentally. He didn’t show up for the morning skate, probably so he didn’t have to deal with the press and the other day he bolted out of the lockerroom after practice so he wouldn’t have to answer questions. For a guy who’s a bit of a head case to start with, he sure doesn’t seem to be handling the pressure that well.
Do you think that even Ovie seems to be exhibiting some public frustration will work with him?
Free Eric Fehr!
I think Semin’s a guy you have to handle with kid gloves. I don’t think Ovi giving him a public tongue-lashing is going to help. Then again, they’re Russians so what the hell do I know.
Then again, they’re Russians I’m not in the room with them so what the hell do I know.
My ability to post is only surpassed by my ability to pinch pennies.
I don’t blame Semin in the slightest for not talking to media. The dude can show up, handle his hockey responsibilities, and go home. I don’t need to hear a word he says, whether in Russian or English. His play on the ice can speak for him, if he wants.
This can’t be true for all players on the team, of course. But Semin gets a pass, AFAIC.
You had me at no problem.
Sasha certainly needs to score tonight, but this always including “12 straight” as if they really are. They may be playoff g ames, but different year, and certainly different circumstances. He was injured in the Penguins series, but was instrumental in the Rangers series (rarely gets mentioned after the 12 straight).
I understand that people like to look at playoff games separately to discern if players play as well, worse, or better than in the regular season. That’s fine. But, linking them in a chain is misleading. Yeah, and I know BB said it Friday night, too.
Semin gets credit for the PHI and NYR series pretty regularly. 12 straight is 12 straight and is real important when you need to be winning 4/7.
I hate listening to people's dreams. It is like flipping through a stack of photographs. If I'm not in any of them and nobody is having sex, I just don't care.
I think there’s plenty to bitch about in this current series, and we don’t really need to reach backwards for more to gripe over, honestly.
My ability to post is only surpassed by my ability to pinch pennies.
Fair enough, but considering the ongoing debate about Semin I don’t see any need to ignore it either.
I hate listening to people's dreams. It is like flipping through a stack of photographs. If I'm not in any of them and nobody is having sex, I just don't care.
Many of you know that I am strongly in the lobby for Semin and while I think he’s been valuable to the team in several ways this series, not scoring in the post season IS the thing that will get me to believe that he’s not as valuable as we had hoped.
Here’s hoping he gets it going or else I’m going to officially register as part of the “Semin is a good, not great, player who doesn’t have the game to be an effective scorer in the tighter game of the playoffs” lobby.
Great. Now I have to change my name to "Jaromir meet Alex".
by Chris meet Alex on Apr 26, 2010 2:07 PM EDT up reply actions
Were you in the “Ovi’s bad” lobby when he scored only two goals in one game during a ten-game streak Feb 10-Mar 14? Come on, be strong, don’t let F&B to pull you away.
by fnralch on Apr 26, 2010 2:14 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
Classic Semin Lobby trick. Compare Semin’s cyclical inconsistency with AO’s one slump per year. Anyone that is even going to try to compare Semin and Ovechkin is insane. If you look at those two players and think “yeah, I trust Semin as much as Ovechkin, or more so” then you are crazy, to be nice.
I hate listening to people's dreams. It is like flipping through a stack of photographs. If I'm not in any of them and nobody is having sex, I just don't care.
by Rob Parker on Apr 26, 2010 2:17 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
You're doing it wrong...
It’s supposed to be INSANE!
Great. Now I have to change my name to "Jaromir meet Alex".
by Chris meet Alex on Apr 26, 2010 2:39 PM EDT up reply actions
But he was bad in game 11
I hate listening to people's dreams. It is like flipping through a stack of photographs. If I'm not in any of them and nobody is having sex, I just don't care.
*
Turns out a long string of exclamation points and other symbols turns into a broken link image.
I hate listening to people's dreams. It is like flipping through a stack of photographs. If I'm not in any of them and nobody is having sex, I just don't care.
that lobby needs a much better name before I’d even consider joining it…
One day I will come up with the greatest signature...it'll be awesome...
We go by
“SIGNGPWDHTGTBAESITTGOTP” for short. (It’s pronounced – “AAAAARRRRGGGGGHHHHH!!”)
Great. Now I have to change my name to "Jaromir meet Alex".
by Chris meet Alex on Apr 26, 2010 2:43 PM EDT up reply actions
Haha, I think we’re all probably members of the “arrrrgggghhh sasha!” club, even those of us that love him and aren’t part of the SIGNGPWhatever club.
I’m done with hoping he stops being inconsistent because it’ll never happen and have switched to just hoping he hits his next hot streak before it’s too late.
One day I will come up with the greatest signature...it'll be awesome...
I’m done with hoping he stops being inconsistent because it’ll never happen and have switched to just hoping he hits his next hot streak before it’s too late.
“IDWHHSBIBINHAHSTJHHHHNHSBITL” sounds like a nice lobby, I’M IN!
Great. Now I have to change my name to "Jaromir meet Alex".
by Chris meet Alex on Apr 26, 2010 2:58 PM EDT up reply actions
"12 straight games without a goal" is literally meaningless.
I have a hard time taking anything that happened last year into consideration of how a player is playing right now. You can point to Semin’s game and say that it may not be built for the postseason, or that he has been forcing outside shots too indiscriminately, they are valid and debatable opinions, but don’t tell me how he is playing right now has anything to do with the Pens series last year. He has still been solid in the postseason statistically despite his 12 game goalless streak, at 8G-15A-22P in 26 games.
He had tons of looks last game. A couple great passes, a ton of good shots, and a couple in tight that go in more than they don’t. He wasn’t really pressing, and he was so fired up in the 3rd that he had 4 or 5 hits (Semin hits…) in a row on the same shift! He is playing well. You can tell me a thousand times that he isn’t but it’s something that happens in sports. It’s called bad luck. Baseball players can hit the ball on the screws 10 times in a row and have 0 hits, and all you can do is press on and continue to focus. Sasha has been doing that, and has shown me no signs of letting up or getting discouraged. If anything he has played better as the series progresses. Goals are not a one way street. As much as you’d like to believe players can will the puck in the net, there are other factors. And Semin has been doing just about everything in his power to put the puck in the net.
Cue “But he hasnt scored any goalz” responses.
Why is that?
He’s been in four playoff series. So yeah, if you lump it all together it looks alright.
First two: 14GP-8G-8A-16PT
Last two: 12GP-0G-7A-7PT
Producers produce, espeically in the playoffs. I’d have no problem walking away from $6M a year for Semin at this rate.
Russian Machine very rarely breaks. Oh and f**k Brooks Orpik.
by macvechkin on Apr 26, 2010 1:10 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
This is why you’re not a GM, well, among lots of other reasons.
Yes, his series against the Pens a year ago has everything to do with his 30 shots in this series not happening to find the back of the net.
Do we need to break out the shot chart?
Russian Machine very rarely breaks. Oh and f**k Brooks Orpik.
You can post whatever you like, but there’s nothing that’s happened in the past 5 games that would make me believe Semin isn’t worth 6mil a year. And making any kind of judgment on a player over that short of a period of time when you have years of statistics isn’t advisable.
So why even bother discussing anything with you then?
In fact, why bother coming on here in the first place? Why not just write emails to yourself?
Fehr and Flash. . . they're like those Biblical twins, Gallant and. . . Goofeth.
by D'ohboy on Apr 26, 2010 1:34 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
So you’re aware then that 30 shots doesn’t mean 30 times the goalie has robbed him and he’s just unlucky.
We’re talking about two straight series, not 5 games. And in each of them, one goal from him could have been enormous.
When he’s good he’s good…he’s awesome. But like BB said in the post-game, generally speaking, when your scorers don’t score, it’s just like when your checking guys don’t check. They need to do their job.
Russian Machine very rarely breaks. Oh and f**k Brooks Orpik.
Why bother having a discussion with a rock?
Fehr and Flash. . . they're like those Biblical twins, Gallant and. . . Goofeth.
It’s like having a conversation with a dining room table!
Every time the Swedish Swashbuckler scores a goal, an angel gets its wings.
by SeattleCapsFan on Apr 26, 2010 2:17 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
rec for the Barney Frank pull!
Kung-fu Rink Rabbit
Donate to the Rink Pledge Drive for SAVES FOR KIDS, PLAYOFF EDITION!
At the very least, Semin is doing some of the things that generally lead to goals and has been a rock defensively (according to Peerless’ numbers). WIth the depth on the Caps, it’s not imperative that Semin score every game.
But 12 games? He needs to pick it up.
Cидни Kросби: Александр Oвечкин, он твой папа теперь
Capitals Coming: for Capitals fans who can bear reading something less intelligent than a story at Japers' Rink
by red army line on Apr 26, 2010 1:39 PM EDT up reply actions
Semin is a huge part of the reason people talk about the Caps’ depth! No, he doesn’t have to score every game, but if he scores 0 in 5 then the Caps don’t have the depth people fear. We’re back to one great top line, and our checkers doing well and pitching in. Once again, our second line is the glaring failure of the playoffs. And with that cap hit Semin most definitely can’t just stay invisible.
I hate listening to people's dreams. It is like flipping through a stack of photographs. If I'm not in any of them and nobody is having sex, I just don't care.
What do you mean? I should’ve written “4” instead? He needs to be between a goal every three games and a goal every two games.
Cидни Kросби: Александр Oвечкин, он твой папа теперь
Capitals Coming: for Capitals fans who can bear reading something less intelligent than a story at Japers' Rink
by red army line on Apr 26, 2010 2:51 PM EDT up reply actions
We’re talking about two straight series
We are, in reality, talking about two series that happened a calendar year apart.
We are, in reality, talking about the last 12 truly meaningful games the Caps have played.
I hate listening to people's dreams. It is like flipping through a stack of photographs. If I'm not in any of them and nobody is having sex, I just don't care.
by Rob Parker on Apr 26, 2010 1:42 PM EDT up reply actions 2 recs
You have pointed out what those games have in common. But when you try to draw a causal connection to them is where I disagree. What about the Rags series? Why not draw the line further back? It’s just a convenient punch line that people are drumming up. Sasha hasn’t scored in 12 straight! Gasp! He has played fine, better than fine, if you played the game and closed your eyes after the shot get’s released. It’s just not going in. And I understand this is a point that people are willing to accept.
You don’t seem to be getting my point. I’m not saying “Semin is a bad playoff player.” I’m saying “Semin is an inconsistent player that can’t be relied upon when we need him most.” He’s had two great series, and two dreadful series. That’s why I saw we can’t rely on him. I’m not saying he’ll never have another good playoff series, I’m saying it’s only about 50/50 and that’s not something I put 6 million dollars into.
And I completely disagree that he’s playing fine, and certainly that he’s been better than fine. This isn’t about his shots “just not going in” it’s about him just not creating enough, playing with fire, or doing the little or smart things that win games. He wants to uncork that giant wrist shot to the top shelf every time instead of getting the puck on net for a rebound or a chance.
Look at his 40th goal, I bet he’s ashamed of it. Just throw the puck on net from the halfwall and it squeaks five hole? That’s not how beautiful players play. That’s not Sasha. It’s not worth winning if you can’t win big pretty! He tries to release that wrist shot and it’s getting blocked at the point of release or they are getting a piece of his stick and it’s just not the same quality shot. He’s not getting to the heart of the slot very often, he’s not playing with the same spark. You see something different, but please stop bastardizing the criticism against him.
I hate listening to people's dreams. It is like flipping through a stack of photographs. If I'm not in any of them and nobody is having sex, I just don't care.
by Rob Parker on Apr 26, 2010 1:54 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
I get your point completely. You are frustrated and rightly upset that such a talented player like Semin is failing to contribute when we need him most.
My point is, the reason he hasn’t put a G up in this series is not because he has gone out there and played the wrong way, or not shown up mentally, as he is often accused of.
He has played solid defense. He has not made an egregious, or even mildly bad turnovers. Yes, he has taken low percentage shots at times. But these are the types that allow your linemates to step in and do their part. They are also low-risk defensive shots. Yes, he has had trouble making “magic happen” as many people are calling for. But often in trying to make “magical Semin plays” (joke in there somewhere) there almost always opens up a risk of a counter attack. He has played exactly how I would want him to play during this series if I was the coach.
I know it’s hard to separate results from performance, but it’s something that atleast sheds light on the situation, even if it doesn’t exonerate him.
And saying things like “He’s gone 12 games without scoring” is kind of like political propaganda. Like twisting truths to make things more exorbitant. Are we actually considering his play in the Pens series as something that has anything to do with anything right now? He is not a bad postseason player, statistically, though 26 games. And since statistics are all we are pointing at to say he has been disappointing in this series… I guess I don’t know what to say.
He has played solid defense. He has not made an egregious, or even mildly bad turnovers. Yes, he has taken low percentage shots at times. But these are the types that allow your linemates to step in and do their part. They are also low-risk defensive shots.
I agree, Matt Bradley has been solid. But I thought we were talking about Semin.
I hate listening to people's dreams. It is like flipping through a stack of photographs. If I'm not in any of them and nobody is having sex, I just don't care.
by Rob Parker on Apr 26, 2010 3:14 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
I understand you not wanting to discuss it further because we clearly disagree, but you been dodging the point over the last two days:
I know it’s hard to separate results from performance, but it’s something that atleast sheds light on the situation, even if it doesn’t exonerate him.
I feel there needs to be some acknowledgment that there is a difference between performing and producing, and to me, this is a prime example of the difference.
Yeah, and you have the whole Semin Lobby behind you. And there’s no real way to argue against that, is there? Unless he’s actively killing the team the Semin Lobby is going to say “he’s just doing what he does and the shots aren’t going in.” Manny being Manny. Well I’m watching the games with my eyes open and except for a few brief sparks, I don’t see Semin doing what makes him an effective player. I don’t see him performing or producing. So yeah, there can be a distinction, I just don’t buy it.
The Semin Lobby accusing me of dodging points? What is this world coming to?
I hate listening to people's dreams. It is like flipping through a stack of photographs. If I'm not in any of them and nobody is having sex, I just don't care.
Several people have critiqued his play to show why his performance is directly related to his lack of production. It’s not like he’s getting great chances and is just snake bit. He is not doing the things that lead to goals when he is producing.
Sure, Semin is performing the role of a 4th liner excellently. But he is a 40 goal scorer who is relied on to produce offense for this team. Going two straight playoff series without scoring or producing much offense is unacceptable. Particularly when a single goal could have a huge impact on both series.
Of all our iniquities ignorance may be the worst
by Killer_Carlson on Apr 26, 2010 3:33 PM EDT up reply actions
We disagree a lot.
snake bit
In a way, this is exactly how I feel about his stat line right now. It’s pretty easy to call me an apologist, and I guess I would just point to all the reasons i posted about why I think he is playing well. But I don’t think I’ll convince you’re not already.
Going two straight playoff series without scoring or producing much offense is unacceptable.
I still have a problem calling the Pens series into play here. It just doesn’t have a causal connection to this series in anyway. But again, people are latching on to that, and I can’t really blame them. It is a powerful statement on the surface. 12 games, 0 goals. I just look at it differently.
The Pens series does not matter for this series, but it does matter in the overall picture of Semin’s value to the team in the long term. It is just another example to show that this series isn’t a big anomaly.
As far as being snake bit, how often are you seeing Semin get a really good scoring chance that he just misses or is robbed by Halak/Price? If it’s anything more often than “rarely” then I have to question your definition of a good scoring chance.
Of all our iniquities ignorance may be the worst
by Killer_Carlson on Apr 26, 2010 3:46 PM EDT up reply actions
The Pens series does not matter for this series, but it does matter in the overall picture of Semin’s value to the team in the long term. It is just another example to show that this series isn’t a big anomaly.
Mac posted this earlier
First two: 14GP-8G-8A-16PT
Last two: 12GP-0G-7A-7PT
It is totally reasonable to look Semin and his postseason play to try to evaluate his worth to the franchise, but just don’t do it piecemeal. He has had good postseason numbers despite this drought.
Inconsistency requires a piecemeal look by definition! Holy God how do we have to say it? Aggregate state will NEVER be able to resolve the “consistent or inconsistent” debate. Again, K-underscore-C never said that Semin wasn’t a good playoff performer, he said he is inconsistent. Look at those numbers again and tell me what part doesn’t support “inconsistent.”
I hate listening to people's dreams. It is like flipping through a stack of photographs. If I'm not in any of them and nobody is having sex, I just don't care.
by Rob Parker on Apr 26, 2010 3:53 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
Well, he had 6 A in 7G against the Pens, and to me, he’s played well this series. So, in my opinion, I don’t see him as an inconsistent post season player. He’s gone a bunch of shots without scoring, but he hasn’t gone a bunch of games without a scoring chance. There is a difference to me.
Scoring chances?
Sure, I guess if you count all SOG as a “scoring chance.” But that’s like me going to the Playboy Mansion and using lame pick up lines on every model there. Sure, they are all technically “scoring chances”, but the odds are that I’m not scoring. Maybe the goalie shits the bed (or a model is real wasted and exercises particularly bad judgment) and a score results, but it’s not the kind of play that is likely to result in a score.
I hate listening to people's dreams. It is like flipping through a stack of photographs. If I'm not in any of them and nobody is having sex, I just don't care.
by Rob Parker on Apr 26, 2010 4:22 PM EDT up reply actions 2 recs
Do you not understand that “worth to the franchise” includes “ability for the franchise to depend on him”? Taking the numbers in aggregate is meaningless.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
by J.P. on Apr 26, 2010 3:54 PM EDT up reply actions 2 recs
I think everyone here would be willing to take a more consistent player in lieu of Semin even if the second guy’s upside is lower (but not too much lower), in that vein.
Cидни Kросби: Александр Oвечкин, он твой папа теперь
Capitals Coming: for Capitals fans who can bear reading something less intelligent than a story at Japers' Rink
by red army line on Apr 26, 2010 4:03 PM EDT up reply actions
Everyone? Or everyone not in the Semin Lobby/
I hate listening to people's dreams. It is like flipping through a stack of photographs. If I'm not in any of them and nobody is having sex, I just don't care.
Definitely everyone part of that latter group (not Semin lobby), but I’m definitely in that Semin lobby at times and I’d like the consistent player.
Cидни Kросби: Александр Oвечкин, он твой папа теперь
Capitals Coming: for Capitals fans who can bear reading something less intelligent than a story at Japers' Rink
by red army line on Apr 26, 2010 4:27 PM EDT up reply actions
This is a valid opinion. And to make that claim based on two series of goal scoring slumping is your choice.
And to make that claim based on two series of goal scoring slumping is your choice.
See, maybe the most commonly referred to statistical evidence is the postseason history. But his entire regular season history screams “inconsistent!” We could take some sort of haven in the knowledge that he’d turn it on in the playoffs. But now that’s another series in which he hasn’t. I don’t know if he’s injured or what, but with all those SOG, he should be dominating, injury or not. Like K_C has been saying, he’s not going to the high traffic areas, he’s not being a “power forward” that he can be, and so on.
Cидни Kросби: Александр Oвечкин, он твой папа теперь
Capitals Coming: for Capitals fans who can bear reading something less intelligent than a story at Japers' Rink
by red army line on Apr 26, 2010 4:29 PM EDT up reply actions
This is your worst point yet.
To me, that 29 shots is worthless. If Alex Ovechkin put up 500 shots next year and had 5 goals there would be a serious issue at hand.
A shot isn’t like a jab. It’s not weakening the goalie.
I look to the future because that's where I'm going to spend the rest of my life.
by zephyr on Apr 26, 2010 4:24 PM EDT up reply actions 2 recs
A shot isn’t like a jab. It’s not weakening the goalie.
I’d argue that’s exactly what it’s like. It has a positive expectancy for a goal… no matter how bad of a shot it is. If players are charging rebounds, even better. And we all keep talking like his shots have all been from teh point. He has had many good shots. Look at the chart. Yes, there have been shots from the point, but also many from high scoring chances. Not sure how many ways I can say it. He has had good looks.
I’d argue that’s exactly what it’s like. It has a positive expectancy for a goal… no matter how bad of a shot it is.
Not to try and establish a point’s validity solely based on the person, but zephyr is a semi-pro goalie…
And we all keep talking like his shots have all been from teh point. He has had many good shots. Look at the chart. Yes, there have been shots from the point, but also many from high scoring chances. Not sure how many ways I can say it. He has had good looks.
He’s had some. But not a very percentage of his shots. Which is why people point it out when the fact that he’s taken quite a few is brought up.
zephyr is a semi-pro goalie…
He also has fabulous red hair and stones me repeatedly every time I play against him.
Fehr and Flash. . . they're like those Biblical twins, Gallant and. . . Goofeth.
stones me repeatedly
I think there are man, MANY of us in that club.
Great. Now I have to change my name to "Jaromir meet Alex".
by Chris meet Alex on Apr 26, 2010 5:22 PM EDT up reply actions
He’s had some good chances that he’s missed (the puck) on. He’s had some really great chances that never got to the net since they were blocked, etc.
I don’t have the charts but I’d be surprised if more than 8 of those shots were legitimate scoring chances.
He’s been missing when the goal is on his stick or firing into the goalies pads.
Anyway, statistically, you’re right, if he keeps firing something is going to go in but throwing muffins at the net that the goalies easily gobble up isn’t creating rebounds, it’s just turning the puck over.
I look to the future because that's where I'm going to spend the rest of my life.
And FWIW: I don’t think he’s been horrible but I don’t think he’s been very good or what the Caps have needed him to be.
He’s playing passable hockey for a third liner. I’ll be more than happy when some shots start going in for him and when he starts working a bit harder. Right now, he just looks frustrated. I even saw him trying to hit everything that moves for a few shits last game.
I look to the future because that's where I'm going to spend the rest of my life.
He has played solid defense. He has not made an egregious, or even mildly bad turnovers. Yes, he has taken low percentage shots at times.
The fact that you aren’t seeing the contradiction inherent in this statement is the fundamental problem with your argument and those like it.
Low-percentage shots taken from long distances and without traffic in net are de-facto giveaways. If Semin pounds the puck into a Habs’ defender’s shin pads, and the Habs gain control, that’s a turnover. If he puts it into Halak’s glove and he holds it – that’s essentially a turnover because it’s killed the play. If he throws the puck wide on the short side and the puck leaves the zone, he’s done the defense’s job for it.
In short, all those “prayers from the perimeter” are killing his line’s ability to generate pressure and chances. Rather than being patient and setting something up, he’s alternately heaving the puck off his back foot from 50ft, or trying to stickhandle through the entire opposition. Those kind of plays work in the regular season but, as he’s finding out, they seldom work in the post-season.
Furthermore, these sorts of individual plays exclude his linemates – how are you supposed to support the puck or go to the net to create traffic when your linemate is puckhandling through 5 guys without looking up, or taking ludicrous shots the instant he gains the zone?
This is why I pointed out Frolov’s goal from last night, (which can be seen here). This is the kind of play that Sasha needs to start making if he’s going to break out of his slump and contribute offensively.
I appreciate all the work he’s doing defensively, but ultimately, the guy is a top-6 forward who scored 40 goals in the regular season – he ain’t on this team for his backchecking ability or his willingness to block shots.
Fehr and Flash. . . they're like those Biblical twins, Gallant and. . . Goofeth.
He has played solid defense. He has not made an egregious, or even mildly bad turnovers. Yes, he has taken low percentage shots at times.The fact that you aren’t seeing the contradiction inherent in this statement is the fundamental problem with your argument and those like it.
Low-percentage shots taken from long distances and without traffic in net are de-facto giveaways. If Semin pounds the puck into a Habs’ defender’s shin pads, and the Habs gain control, that’s a turnover. If he puts it into Halak’s glove and he holds it – that’s essentially a turnover because it’s killed the play. If he throws the puck wide on the short side and the puck leaves the zone, he’s done the defense’s job for it.
A low percentage shot from the point generates rebounds, and he’s had very few blocked from deep, especially compared to Ovie, who can have a half dozen in a period.
His “prayers from the perimeter” are one of the direct factors into why they’ve had 0 goals scored against their line. It’s an extremely safe play if the shot doesn’t get blocked. Trying to pull a “Semin” and stickhandle to a better spot on the ice would be far more likely to generate a counter attack.
The bottom line is, Semin is not screwing up in Semin-like ways. He is playing sounder, safer, and yet still has a bucket of shots. Yes, many are from the point, however, many are from prime scoring chances too.
If his line crashes the net more, or he has a couple of his better shots sneak through, or he pounds in that rebound on the doorstep last game, we are all praising Semin for playing an incredible two way game. Not scoring buckets, but not making the big blunders either, that always are costly in the playoffs.
So essentially “don’t fuck up egregiously and hurt the team” is your standard for performing well? I figured the Semin Lobby would have higher expectations for the guy.
As has been pointed out before, the team isn’t crashing the net because he is just winging the puck on net without getting set in the zone. If he wants to create offense he can do a lot more than what he is doing. He can work harder along the boards and in the corners to get the puck deep and keep it deep. He can use his linemates better by dumping the puck in to let them create a forecheck (and thus create room for him to get into better scoring areas).
These are the things that he did in the regular season that led to his production that he is not doing now. That is why I completely disagree that he is performing well and his lack of production can just be attributed to bad luck
Of all our iniquities ignorance may be the worst
by Killer_Carlson on Apr 26, 2010 3:53 PM EDT up reply actions
Isn’t it somewhat ironic that the Semin Lobby is the group who thinks less of the player in question and it’s the rest of us that believe he’s capable of delivering more?
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
by J.P. on Apr 26, 2010 3:55 PM EDT up reply actions 2 recs
Very much so.
Of all our iniquities ignorance may be the worst
by Killer_Carlson on Apr 26, 2010 3:56 PM EDT up reply actions
It is one of the great ironies of this whole debate. The criticism of Semin is entirely based on us thinking he’s better than he’s showing and the Semin Lobby accusing of us claiming that he’s a bum.
I hate listening to people's dreams. It is like flipping through a stack of photographs. If I'm not in any of them and nobody is having sex, I just don't care.
by Rob Parker on Apr 26, 2010 3:56 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
Granted though, this is one of his “better” cold stretches—not taking tons of penalties, not on the ice for lots of GA, etc.
Cидни Kросби: Александр Oвечкин, он твой папа теперь
Capitals Coming: for Capitals fans who can bear reading something less intelligent than a story at Japers' Rink
by red army line on Apr 26, 2010 4:10 PM EDT up reply actions
Exactly… a good cold stretch. Which baffles me as to why everyone is coming down on him so hard. What if he was actually playing poorly? People would want to execute him.
Wow, so he’s not at his absolute worst, so he must be good. I seriously don’t understand how you can possibly not understand why people expect more from him.
The cliche is “in the playoffs you need your best players to be your best players”, not “in the playoffs you need your best players to not suck eggs.”
Of all our iniquities ignorance may be the worst
by Killer_Carlson on Apr 26, 2010 4:19 PM EDT up reply actions 2 recs
It’s clear you think he’s playing poorly. That’s cool, I think he’s not. I think it’s a combination of playing with a horrible line offensively, good goaltending, and bad luck. We disagree.
a horrible line offensively
I pointed this out earlier when you tried this argument – how many teams in the NHL have a 2nd line that can even begin to hold a candle to the Caps’?
Moreover, aren’t these linemates the same guys he played with all year when he scored 40 goals?
Fehr and Flash. . . they're like those Biblical twins, Gallant and. . . Goofeth.
It’s clear you think he’s playing poorly
…relative to the expectations of him from the fans, ownership, coaches, management, and other players. He’s playing a solid 4th line game (as I believe F&B mentioned) but he’s a 2nd line winger who should make the Caps’ 2nd line one of the top-3 2nd lines in the NHL.
Cидни Kросби: Александр Oвечкин, он твой папа теперь
Capitals Coming: for Capitals fans who can bear reading something less intelligent than a story at Japers' Rink
by red army line on Apr 26, 2010 4:31 PM EDT up reply actions
Easy on painting the Semin lobby...
If you pain the ENTIRE Semin lobby with one brush that is nuance-free, the terrorists win.
We are not all represented by Super Hans, I think Alex is not performing to what we expect and need from him right now.
Period.
Meethinks there’s a split in the Semin lobby between the radical up (trending Sasha) and those that think he’s simply undervalued by many for what he delivers.
I am in the latter, and will not defend his current playoff run.
Great. Now I have to change my name to "Jaromir meet Alex".
by Chris meet Alex on Apr 26, 2010 5:29 PM EDT up reply actions
Division is complete. Next step is conquer.
I hate listening to people's dreams. It is like flipping through a stack of photographs. If I'm not in any of them and nobody is having sex, I just don't care.
by Rob Parker on Apr 26, 2010 5:59 PM EDT up reply actions 2 recs
His "prayers from the perimeter" are one of the direct factors into why they’ve had 0 goals scored against their line. It’s an extremely safe play if the shot doesn’t get blocked.
No. A DUMP-IN would be an extremely safe play. A floaty perimeter shot high-glove isn’t a safe play – it’s a nothing play at best and a potential turnover.
You’re clearly beyond discussion.
We say Semin’s playing poorly because he’s not scoring and he’s counted on to score.
You say, he’s performing, but not producing because he’s taking lots of shots.
We point out that his shots are actually piss-poor perimeter prayers with no Caps traffic in front that kill all offensive momentum for the second line.
You say that these are safe plays, then you continue to say that his line needs to crash the net more.
We point out that he’s off playing his own game and not letting his teammates support him or crash the net.
You say that these are safe plays and that he’s trying. . .
And on and on it goes.
If you really believe that Semin’s play in the offensive zone has been acceptable. . . then just go right on believing that.
Fehr and Flash. . . they're like those Biblical twins, Gallant and. . . Goofeth.
by D'ohboy on Apr 26, 2010 4:23 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
He has played fine, better than fine
If you think this, then you’re in a minority of one. I don’t even think Semin thinks that he’s played “better than fine.”
if you played the game and closed your eyes after the shot get’s released.
Not sure what this means, but he’s peppering the back boards and opponents shin pads with loads of low-percentage shots. They’re not going to go in. He needs to change it up and quit playing on the perimeter.
If you want an example of what he ought to be doing, look at Frolov’s goal last night in the Kings-Canucks game.
Fehr and Flash. . . they're like those Biblical twins, Gallant and. . . Goofeth.
Re Frolov: that was exactly my thought last night — “Sasha, please do something like that!”
I’m afraid the way BB jiggles the second liners also affects Semin’s performance so he has to somehow re-tune for every new game. As a result, he tries to shoot more rather than pass…and those shots are low-percentage indeed.
Needless to say, I’m with everyone else on the planet on this one. When Semin’s this invisible, there’s usually a blacklight involved.
Zing!
Ewww…
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
by J.P. on Apr 26, 2010 2:01 PM EDT up reply actions 5 recs
That’s like going out there with a loaded rec!
They're coming.
by Bald Pollack on Apr 26, 2010 2:06 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
He has played fine, better than fine, if you played the game and closed your eyes after the shot get’s released.
Closing your eyes is the only way you can conclude Semin has been better than fine this series.
It’s not about shots just not going in. It’s about Semin not doing things to get the shots that typically go in for him. He has just thrown shots from the outside instead of working to get the puck deep (or God forbid, dumping and chasing), he hasn’t been working well along the boards or in the corner, he’s not getting to the front of the net, and when he does take those outside shots he’s rushing them and not getting the power behind them that he can generate.
When you think of the 29 shots Semin has taken this series, how often do you see them as a routine save and how often are you saying “damn, the goalie made a great save. That should have been a goal.” Almost all of them fall into the former category.
Of all our iniquities ignorance may be the worst
by Killer_Carlson on Apr 26, 2010 2:33 PM EDT up reply actions 2 recs
And making any kind of judgment on a player over that short of a period of time when you have years of statistics isn’t advisable.
Do the years of statistics show anything that his playoff numbers don’t? I don’t think they do. In fact, that’s precisely the concern that many have had after looking at the years of statistics: that he shows up and is awesome sometimes and is invisible (or worse) at other times.
I hate listening to people's dreams. It is like flipping through a stack of photographs. If I'm not in any of them and nobody is having sex, I just don't care.
As predictible as his inconsistency, however, is the fact that when he scores a goal or two, his biggest supporters will puff out their chests and let out a big “I told you so,” even though the reality will be that they told us nothing we didn’t already know full well – that he is a phenomenal talent that is bound to score sooner or later.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
Right. Which is why I get so mad that they bastardize the argument. It was never, and will never be, that Semin is terrible and can’t score. It has been, and will always be, that Semin is too inconsistent to justify 6+ for long term because he could disappear for a playoff round or two and then you are sunk.
But next time he has a big game we’re sure to hear about how awesome he is and how we just didn’t realize it.
I hate listening to people's dreams. It is like flipping through a stack of photographs. If I'm not in any of them and nobody is having sex, I just don't care.
by Rob Parker on Apr 26, 2010 2:15 PM EDT up reply actions 3 recs
Yeah, but everyone’s opinion here is meaningless—which is what makes it fun. We get to play armchair GM and debate/argue/rage/whatever.
Plus, your “That’s why you’re not a GM” is ridiculous. You’re not a GM either, so come off it.
If wishes were horses, we'd all be eating steak.
by Hang a Laingtern on Your Problems on Apr 26, 2010 1:29 PM EDT up reply actions 2 recs
To be fair, there are many reasons I’m not a GM, but one of them isn’t declaring a player isn’t worth his salary based on two statistically bad series, one year apart.
But let me ask you, then, and I’m a huge Semin apologist: What good is he if he can’t produce in the playoffs? Giving it an A effort is all well and good, but at some point, trying hard isn’t going to cut it. It’s not enough to WANT it, you have to DO it, too. His job is to score goals. He isn’t scoring goals. Therefore he isn’t doing his job.
And I don’t think that a baseball analogy ever fits in scenarious like this, for one reason: salary cap.
If wishes were horses, we'd all be eating steak.
by Hang a Laingtern on Your Problems on Apr 26, 2010 1:39 PM EDT up reply actions
If we just waited and let Semin play in 10000000000 playoff games we’d see him score at his true rate and you’d understand that he’s not really disappearing the playoffs.
So how many seasons is that?
I hate listening to people's dreams. It is like flipping through a stack of photographs. If I'm not in any of them and nobody is having sex, I just don't care.
by Rob Parker on Apr 26, 2010 1:43 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
It’ll be about the time Kid Griffey sets the new HR record, right?
If wishes were horses, we'd all be eating steak.
by Hang a Laingtern on Your Problems on Apr 26, 2010 4:07 PM EDT up reply actions
And Craig Anderson is playing much better than Fresh Meat Halak is.
Andy now has lots more time to watch the ice girls too. ;-)
Let's go Caps!
by MikeL-Pivonka on Apr 26, 2010 12:05 PM EDT up reply actions
I do not know how Carlson doesn’t merit a plus. Are our expectations so high of him, and so low of Poti?
by S h a g g y on Apr 26, 2010 11:25 AM EDT reply actions 1 recs
agreed, I thought Carlson definitely deserved an up arrow for his work…especially if Poti is getting one.
Though one thing I have noticed (more so in the box scores than in games)…Carlson is a giveaway machine. they are usually not the types of turnovers that lead to great scoring chances for Montreal so they are less noticeable, but he now leads the caps (by a lot) with 12 turnovers. Greener is next with 7. No one on Montreal has more than 5 (Bergeron).
he leads the league in that category
If you've read this far...seek help.
by ThePeerless on Apr 26, 2010 11:40 AM EDT up reply actions
rookie learning on the job? One of the prices you pay for that?
Kung-fu Rink Rabbit
Donate to the Rink Pledge Drive for SAVES FOR KIDS, PLAYOFF EDITION!
So do we think Flash will get benched tonight? I think that it has to be done, if not because we’ll get more from Walker, but because we’ll get more from Flash after he returns from a benching. Flash may have taken the wrong message from his GW goal after the earlier benching late in the season. Instead of coming to the conclusion that he will never be one of Q’s minions in the press box again, he should have realized that now a regular benching might be just the thing if he shows signs of slacking.
erskine has scored...now i can die in peace
Flash won’t be benched. He should be, but won’t.
I hate listening to people's dreams. It is like flipping through a stack of photographs. If I'm not in any of them and nobody is having sex, I just don't care.
You think Gabby is so biased in favor of Flash (and 52) that he won’t bench him? I hope Flash is out tonight..
I do think that. But unlike Green, Flash can actually be replaced. I don’t see any scenario in which benching Green helps us (and that goes for the other D as well. We can’t replace Corvo or Poti or Schultz either).
I hate listening to people's dreams. It is like flipping through a stack of photographs. If I'm not in any of them and nobody is having sex, I just don't care.
Thanks for saying that in a much nicer way just moments before I clicked ‘Post.’
They're coming.
by Bald Pollack on Apr 26, 2010 11:58 AM EDT up reply actions
Nope. Flash will be anchoring the second line. Literally.
Now helping to keep an eye on all things Gr8 at Alex Ovetjkin.
by EmilyB on Apr 26, 2010 11:43 AM EDT up reply actions 4 recs
You see him at 2C?
Oh, no. Just the thing to get Semin a goal, right.
erskine has scored...now i can die in peace
by souldrummer on Apr 26, 2010 11:44 AM EDT up reply actions
What about the 3rd period in game 5? Didn’t Bruce kind of try to send a message there? Might be possible for him to do the unthinkable.
erskine has scored...now i can die in peace
by souldrummer on Apr 26, 2010 11:43 AM EDT up reply actions
Exactly…those 12 minutes were “the message”. Now be a good Flash and go play.
Russian Machine very rarely breaks. Oh and f**k Brooks Orpik.
“Message received, Dad. I mean message received, Coach!”
Now helping to keep an eye on all things Gr8 at Alex Ovetjkin.
Hmmm. Flash as BB’s illegitimate son from some galavanting in the Czech Republic. Would explain much. Wasn’t BB a Flashlike offense only player in his playing days? He must feel like he’s benching his own former self when he disciplines Flash.
A real American hero...taking down Habs one game at a time
by souldrummer on Apr 26, 2010 12:58 PM EDT up reply actions
I think Bruce is betting the law of averages on Flash busting out soon. Read Peerless’ excellent analysis on our underperforming young guns:
http://peerlessprognosticator.blogspot.com/2010/04/they-can-do-this.html
by S h a g g y on Apr 26, 2010 11:50 AM EDT up reply actions
Anyone knows the reason behind moving Laich out of Semin line? They were doing pretty good during the regular season…
Because Flash adds an element of toughness and defensive ability that laich does not have.
duh
Free Eric Fehr!
being all gritty and sandpapery and such.
Now helping to keep an eye on all things Gr8 at Alex Ovetjkin.
isn’t that glittery and sparkly?
If you've read this far...seek help.
by ThePeerless on Apr 26, 2010 11:52 AM EDT up reply actions
Wait, you can get a heart instead of an up or down?
Cheers, Complaints, homerism and bashing of mediocre pop musicians in 140 Characters
"DO NOT get stuck behind Kyle Wellwood in the buffet line. This isn't really etiquette, but it will prevent you from starving to death"- Down Goes Brown on Etiquette for Jason Spezza's wedding
by Kevin Sellathamby on Apr 26, 2010 11:51 AM EDT reply actions
yes, purple heart for heroic play through injury, or sacrificing yourself in the name of hockey.
Kung-fu Rink Rabbit
Donate to the Rink Pledge Drive for SAVES FOR KIDS, PLAYOFF EDITION!
Does Corvo get a purple heart for having to play with Sloan?
by b.orr4 on Apr 26, 2010 11:58 AM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
Watch out. Rabbits are gonna get you!
erskine has scored...now i can die in peace
by souldrummer on Apr 26, 2010 12:02 PM EDT up reply actions
Is than an allusion to my sig? I kind of need to change that.
erskine has scored...now i can die in peace
by souldrummer on Apr 26, 2010 12:07 PM EDT up reply actions
Sig changed.
A real American hero...taking down Habs one game at a time
by souldrummer on Apr 26, 2010 12:09 PM EDT up reply actions
Only if Sloan knocks out a few of Corvo’s teeth…
Let's go Caps!
by MikeL-Pivonka on Apr 26, 2010 12:08 PM EDT up reply actions
That’s part of the movement to get Fehr verified status on Twitter.
"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 Apr 26, 2010 11:57 AM EDT up reply actions
A purple heart. Awarded for injuries received in the line of duty. Quintin Laing received one when he blocked a shot – with his jaw. Matt Bradley received one when he got concussed in St. Louis.
Players who are injured through normal wear and tear of pro hockey get red crosses.
Now helping to keep an eye on all things Gr8 at Alex Ovetjkin.
do you have links to those week?
Kung-fu Rink Rabbit
Donate to the Rink Pledge Drive for SAVES FOR KIDS, PLAYOFF EDITION!
And I had the right player, wrong week for Brads. He earned his in Tampa.
And Scotty Walker got a concussion knee tweak and a purple heart here.
Now helping to keep an eye on all things Gr8 at Alex Ovetjkin.
your archival skills are awesome.
Kung-fu Rink Rabbit
Donate to the Rink Pledge Drive for SAVES FOR KIDS, PLAYOFF EDITION!
A page from the Book of Bumppo. Searching on the shoulders of greatness, am I.
Now helping to keep an eye on all things Gr8 at Alex Ovetjkin.
Stecks also got a purple heart, same week as Brads! I had forgotten about that
Kung-fu Rink Rabbit
Donate to the Rink Pledge Drive for SAVES FOR KIDS, PLAYOFF EDITION!
I thought it was when Brads bled his way to a GWG in New York. (Or maybe both, my memory is fuzzy.)
"Camaraderie, that's what the Washington Capitals are all about."
by CapitalCentre on Apr 26, 2010 12:04 PM EDT up reply actions
I thought it was when Brads bled his way to a GWG in New York. (Or maybe both, my memory is fuzzy.)
S’ok, Brad’s memories of the incidents are a little fuzzy too….
Let's go Caps!
by MikeL-Pivonka on Apr 26, 2010 12:09 PM EDT up reply actions
sloan
and the sloan-hate-train keeps on rolling. what’s up with that japers?
what do you mean? Sloan played ok, had a couple boneheaded moment. It wasn’t an up arrow week for him.
and pssssssssssst, AVATAR!
Kung-fu Rink Rabbit
Donate to the Rink Pledge Drive for SAVES FOR KIDS, PLAYOFF EDITION!
If it was a ‘hate-train,’ he’d have gotten a down arrow, no?
They're coming.
by Bald Pollack on Apr 26, 2010 11:59 AM EDT up reply actions
everyone hates Train. They’re like a slightly less annoying version of Nickleback.
Kung-fu Rink Rabbit
Donate to the Rink Pledge Drive for SAVES FOR KIDS, PLAYOFF EDITION!
Train is a lame excuse for a band… they need to create their own sound instead of trying to be Coldplay…
Let's go Caps!
by MikeL-Pivonka on Apr 26, 2010 12:10 PM EDT up reply actions
This is getting OT.
Only YOU can prevent idiots from commenting!
by Knee high to a duck on Apr 26, 2010 12:40 PM EDT up reply actions
This sounds like Belanger is still woozy from his surgeries.
A real American hero...taking down Habs one game at a time
by souldrummer on Apr 26, 2010 12:10 PM EDT up reply actions
Or they’re going with Backstrom, Belanger, Steckel and Gordon at center and letting Flash watch from upstairs.
Let's go Caps!
by MikeL-Pivonka on Apr 26, 2010 12:12 PM EDT up reply actions
That’s the conclusion I drew. I don’t think Belanger is going to miss a game six in Montreal when he’s got 25 family members coming to the game.
For most hockey players to miss a game, there has to be a bone showing…
Let's go Caps!
by MikeL-Pivonka on Apr 26, 2010 12:15 PM EDT up reply actions
Left out a word...
“…miss a playoff game…”
They’d probably want to play through it in the regular season too, but this is the playoffs…
Let's go Caps!
by MikeL-Pivonka on Apr 26, 2010 12:16 PM EDT up reply actions
Tell that to Boyd “Wonkyback” Gordon.
My ability to post is only surpassed by my ability to pinch pennies.
For most regular season games (esp. for a team crusing up front) there’s no need to risk an injury. For playoff games, there’s no tomorrow.
Let's go Caps!
by MikeL-Pivonka on Apr 26, 2010 12:18 PM EDT up reply actions
“Wonkyback” definitely just made me laugh. Out loud!
If wishes were horses, we'd all be eating steak.
by Hang a Laingtern on Your Problems on Apr 26, 2010 12:23 PM EDT up reply actions
as a fellow sufferer of wonkyback, it sucks when getting out of a chair causes immense pain.
Kung-fu Rink Rabbit
Donate to the Rink Pledge Drive for SAVES FOR KIDS, PLAYOFF EDITION!
Wonkyback in da Hizzouse!
Great. Now I have to change my name to "Jaromir meet Alex".
by Chris meet Alex on Apr 26, 2010 2:37 PM EDT up reply actions
needs more blingee
Kung-fu Rink Rabbit
Donate to the Rink Pledge Drive for SAVES FOR KIDS, PLAYOFF EDITION!
blingee app was on the fritz for me, so i went low(ish) key
Great. Now I have to change my name to "Jaromir meet Alex".
by Chris meet Alex on Apr 26, 2010 2:56 PM EDT up reply actions
[insert screenshot of blingee website with “WonkyApp” hanging around it’s neck]
Great. Now I have to change my name to "Jaromir meet Alex".
by Chris meet Alex on Apr 26, 2010 3:01 PM EDT up reply actions
I obamicon’ed it, I’ll add it to the art contest fan shot shortly
Kung-fu Rink Rabbit
Donate to the Rink Pledge Drive for SAVES FOR KIDS, PLAYOFF EDITION!
Belanger is in unless he absolutely can’t go.
Let's go Caps!
by MikeL-Pivonka on Apr 26, 2010 12:18 PM EDT up reply actions
If nothing else, he’ll win 3/4 of his draws.
Cидни Kросби: Александр Oвечкин, он твой папа теперь
Capitals Coming: for Capitals fans who can bear reading something less intelligent than a story at Japers' Rink
by red army line on Apr 26, 2010 1:36 PM EDT up reply actions
cmasisak22:
The other forwards in question said they didn’t know about potential lineup changes.
Coach is not showing his cards to players too?? :o)
I’m sure they all know, but there’s no reason for the Caps to tip their hand any sooner than necessary.
Let's go Caps!
by MikeL-Pivonka on Apr 26, 2010 12:17 PM EDT up reply actions
Or they’re going with Backstrom, Belanger, Steckel and Gordon
You know, I look at that group of centers and outside of Backstrom, there isn’t one on that list that even remotely frightens me if I’m the opposition. And when you compare it to Crosby, Malkin and Staal, it’s downright dismal. When McPhee puts together his offseason wish list, I certainly hope second-line center is at the top.
MP warming up in the bullpen. Hope he’s 3C to start next year and fights his way to 2C.
A real American hero...taking down Habs one game at a time
by souldrummer on Apr 26, 2010 12:28 PM EDT up reply actions
One of most important skills in the NHL for centers is winning faceoffs. Backstrom is slightly above average, and the other three are among the best in the league. All four of them also kill penalties effectively.
I would look for a second line center as well, if I’m McPhee, but who knows…
Let's go Caps!
by MikeL-Pivonka on Apr 26, 2010 12:34 PM EDT up reply actions
Almost wish there was a non-annoying version of Getzlaf that could come play the 2nd line here. Just need some big goon-ish player who can win faceoffs and physically create space for Sasha.
President and sole member of the Erskine lobby.
And that player has to come cheap too.
A very strong argument I feel that Semin has for staying is his playoff production. That seems going down the tubes as well.
Cидни Kросби: Александр Oвечкин, он твой папа теперь
Capitals Coming: for Capitals fans who can bear reading something less intelligent than a story at Japers' Rink
by red army line on Apr 26, 2010 1:38 PM EDT up reply actions
How about Boudreau?
The most entertaining coach in the NHL? http://bit.ly/9K4IJU
by thestevenetwork on Apr 26, 2010 12:18 PM EDT reply actions
is it even a contest? I mean, Torts might drop more f-bombs in the post-game presser, but Bruce is way funnier.
Kung-fu Rink Rabbit
Donate to the Rink Pledge Drive for SAVES FOR KIDS, PLAYOFF EDITION!
(Steve, you should post this in the Clips thread)
Now helping to keep an eye on all things Gr8 at Alex Ovetjkin.
by EmilyB on Apr 26, 2010 12:25 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
I found Alex Semin....
Cleaning out the wife’s car yesterday, son finds one of his missing race cars…the 28 car…Alex Semin has been found.
by Yanger on Apr 26, 2010 1:07 PM EDT reply actions 2 recs
PLEASE Switch 'em out!
Morrison, Fleischmann out – Steckel, Walker in. PLEASE!!!
Steckel or Walker get the GWG
(everyone looks at BB with the “I told ya so” look)
~~~ R0cK D@ R3D ~~~
by Chaz-Capapalooza on Apr 26, 2010 1:53 PM EDT up reply actions
I’m cool with anyone in a white jersey tonight getting the GWG, including Varly. If they do, then BB made the right decisions on players.
Let's go Caps!
by MikeL-Pivonka on Apr 26, 2010 2:36 PM EDT up reply actions
Or lucky.
Every time the Swedish Swashbuckler scores a goal, an angel gets its wings.
by SeattleCapsFan on Apr 26, 2010 2:36 PM EDT up reply actions
Exactly. There is such a talent disparity between these teams that the Caps should be winning anyway. Just because the team wins doesn’t mean the personnel call was the right one. Cough Olympics cough.
I hate listening to people's dreams. It is like flipping through a stack of photographs. If I'm not in any of them and nobody is having sex, I just don't care.
If anything, with the talent disparity the fact that we’re headed into a 6th game almost proves the exact opposite, that BB is NOT making the right decisions.
Every time the Swedish Swashbuckler scores a goal, an angel gets its wings.
by SeattleCapsFan on Apr 26, 2010 2:45 PM EDT up reply actions
Of course, perversely, my biggest complaint is that he refuses to dress a less talented line up.
I hate listening to people's dreams. It is like flipping through a stack of photographs. If I'm not in any of them and nobody is having sex, I just don't care.
But for a unique reason...
I assume you want a less skilled lineup for the same reason I do; gritty play is what beats a trap. And any skill player that refuses to do the gritty against the trap and continues to bull rush, attempt to stick handle through it, or rely on horizontal passes at and around the blue line to the point of being a giveaway machine, really needs to be sat. Against a non-trapping team (Flyers, maybe?), would you have a problem with the current lineup?
One day I will come up with the greatest signature...it'll be awesome...
Gritty play wins playoff games. Against MON I want Flash on the bench. Against PHI I want Flash on the bench. Against PIT I want Flash on the bench. Flash can be an (inadequate) substitute for Semin if Semin goes down. Other than that, he’s dead to me. Give me the guy that wants to go win a puck battle.
I hate listening to people's dreams. It is like flipping through a stack of photographs. If I'm not in any of them and nobody is having sex, I just don't care.
I feel like your Fleischmann hate has gotten stronger and stronger through all the Fleischmann-debates (just my opinion, and not a criticism). I always find it interesting that healthy debate has at least as good a chance of polarizing opinions further as it does to help them find common ground.
That said, I think it’s some deserved hate, and his disappointing play is, well, disappointing. Here’s hoping we don’t waste any money on him this off-season.
One day I will come up with the greatest signature...it'll be awesome...
My Flash hate has increased with my exposure to Flash. I don’t know if it’s the debates or not, but I doubt it. I wasn’t a fan of his last post-season (don’t know if you were lurking that far back), but I cut him some slack because he had one more year at 750K and was good production for the dollar. Even then I didn’t think he would be a good playoff player but I at least was willing to give him a chance to take a step forward this year. He didn’t take that step, but he’s being played like he has. I’ll fully admit that my Flash hate would be a fraction of what it is if BB would give him ice time that he actually earned in the NHL rather than throwing him a bone for a great AHL season years ago. At this point, BB’s overuse of Flash is one of the things that hurts the team most, and I’m holding that against Flash in a big way.
I hate listening to people's dreams. It is like flipping through a stack of photographs. If I'm not in any of them and nobody is having sex, I just don't care.
Sounds about right. When he returned from injury at the beginning of this season, it looked like he might have toughened up a bit and “got it.” I even remember him getting into a few board battles. A shame he didn’t figure it all out.
Even more of a shame that we didn’t trade him mid season when his trade value was probably pretty high. Some other teams that aren’t as loaded scoring wise would deal with his inability/unwillingness to do anything else just because they need those goals.
One day I will come up with the greatest signature...it'll be awesome...
Re: Flash
“Other than that, he’s dead to me.”
I couldn’t agree more.
In fact, I won’t even call him by his name anymore
Flash will now be known as Fredo….
Fredo, you’re nothing to me now. You’re not a brother, you’re not a friend. I don’t want to know you or what you do. I don’t want to see you at the hotels, I don’t want you near my house. When you see our mother, I want to know a day in advance, so I won’t be there. You understand?
www.patriotracing.us
"Making a difference through motor sports."
by Evel Knuble on Apr 26, 2010 3:51 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
Eh hem...
Is it Monday Yet!!!???
~~~ R0cK D@ R3D ~~~
by Chaz-Capapalooza on Apr 26, 2010 1:49 PM EDT reply actions
it’s Monday, it’s just 5 more hours to go until that part of Monday I actually care about
Kung-fu Rink Rabbit
Donate to the Rink Pledge Drive for SAVES FOR KIDS, PLAYOFF EDITION!
Line changes
Things are going to change. Gladly look for ward to it.
I’m ok with Belanger centering second line. Whether that includes Semin or not doesn’t matter. Pushing him up with OV and Backs is fine.
But I would like to see Perreault in the team. He is like OV and Chimera, an energy player. Would love to see some crazy changes like setting up Perreault or Chimera in the first line.
As much as we’d all like to see MP, he played on Saturday and Sunday nights for Hershey. Playing tonight would be 3 games in 3 nights. It’s beyond doubtful.
Fehr and Flash. . . they're like those Biblical twins, Gallant and. . . Goofeth.
And based on his Sunday play (no points, no SOG, 2 uncharacteristic HHT penalties), Ima thinking he’s playing through some injury.
Now helping to keep an eye on all things Gr8 at Alex Ovetjkin.
My bad. One hooking penalty, one GT interference call yesterday.
Now helping to keep an eye on all things Gr8 at Alex Ovetjkin.
the Capitals are limited to 4 non-emergency call-ups until the Bears are eliminated. It simply doesn’t make sense to use one of those on MP right now.
and…….come on, avatar. stop making me hound you.
Kung-fu Rink Rabbit
Donate to the Rink Pledge Drive for SAVES FOR KIDS, PLAYOFF EDITION!
Ok
I’m gonna fix one asap. I hope you don’t have to have a hockey related one.
nope. just one that you feel represents you.
Great. Now I have to change my name to "Jaromir meet Alex".
by Chris meet Alex on Apr 26, 2010 5:29 PM EDT up reply actions
Caps should start a Golf team.
Choking bitches!!!!!! I mean at least with the skins, we know they suck, but we all drank the kool-aid. Man You can dress them up, but in the end they are always the same choking bitches.
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