Friday Caps Clips: Classic Announcement Pending
by J.P. on May 28, 2010 6:41 AM EDT
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Your savory breakfast links:
- What we've all known for a while becomes official today: Caps, Pens, New Year's Day. And before you complain too much about the "who" and the "where," note that the Winter Classic road team has made three-straight appearances in the Cup Finals. [Puck Daddy, Hockey Independent]
- Semyon Varlamov, by the tens. [Peerless]
- Give blood, get a John Carlson bobblehead (which is quite awesome). [Capitals]
- Get to know Dmitri Kugryshev (you know, beyond his conditioning or lack thereof). [Hockey Chronicles]
- Now that's a road trip. [D.C. Sports Bog]
- The Caps are reportedly giving a small Latvian goalie a tryout. I wonder what his in was. [@dchesnokov]
- Take Five with... Mike Vogel. Don't mind if I do. [Live In Red]
- Caps bloggers go on the record with Finals predictions. [RtR]
- Ranking local sportscasters. [Mr. Irrelevant]
- Per the HHoF, on this date back in 1974, "In the NHL Amateur draft held in Montreal, the expansion Washington Capitals used the #1 pick overall to select Greg Joly. The NY Islanders selected Bryan Trottier with their second choice (22nd Overall)." Oof.
- Finally, happy 37th birthday to Pat Peake, happy 42nd to Jim Hrivnak, happy 55th to Ron Wilson and Doug Hicks, happy 58th to Jack Lynch, and happy 61st to Gary Inness.
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Ahh! We see the SC Finals prediction from our own JP in the Rock the Red. Must admit, I agree with JP as the hockey gods don’t seem to like me either.
Rocking the Red since 1975
My pick is legit, though – Flyers in 6. Who’s everyone else got?
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
Hawks in 7, what the hell.
They're coming.
by Bald Pollack on May 28, 2010 7:20 AM EDT up reply actions
Philly in seven.
On the Forecheck: preaching the Predators' gospel to the unwashed masses.
Twitter/Cycle Like the Sedins
by Chris Burton on May 28, 2010 7:22 AM EDT up reply actions
Hawks in 5
A clear conscience is usually the sign of a bad memory
by Rather Bengt on May 28, 2010 8:40 AM EDT up reply actions
I want to say Hawks in 6, but there’s the Hossa curse to consider.
"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 May 28, 2010 9:01 AM EDT up reply actions
I don’t know how to check this, but I wonder if there has ever been a player who has gone to three straight Finals with three different teams. And more to the point, if there’s ever been a player who has lost three straight Finals with three different teams.
According to this the answer is no and no.
What can I say I’m a JP fangirl. I will follow him into the darkest and filthiest of alleys, even the comment section at Puck Daddy.
Chi in 6.
Because now I can justify browsing and commenting during the work day with the argument that I am promoting my business.
by Sombrero Guy on May 28, 2010 10:06 AM EDT up reply actions
hawks in 6
I don’t have much tolerance for stupid. Or cheese on food that doesn’t need it. -duck
by twistedlogic on May 28, 2010 10:12 AM EDT up reply actions
Hawks in 5
"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
Hawks in 5. Flyers really have to rise to the occasion, and as it is they’ve been riding their top-4 super hard. Richards needs to have a helluva series.
Cидни Kросби: Александр Oвечкин, он твой папа теперь
Red Line Station: for Capitals fans who can bear reading something less intelligent than a story at Japers' Rink
(note name change)
by red army line on May 28, 2010 11:52 AM EDT up reply actions
CHI in 5
Of all our iniquities ignorance may be the worst
by Killer_Carlson on May 28, 2010 12:45 PM EDT up reply actions
Hawks in 5… the real Michael Leighton the Southeast Division knows all too well shows up for the Finals…
Washington Capitals 2009-10 = Quebec Nordiques 1994-95
--- D'ohboy
by MikeL-Pivonka on May 28, 2010 1:12 PM EDT up reply actions
Hawks in five. They skate it on United Center ice.
Only YOU can prevent idiots from commenting!
by Knee high to a duck on May 28, 2010 3:18 PM EDT up reply actions
And before you complain too much about the “who” and the “where,” note that the Winter Classic road team has made three-straight appearances in the Cup Finals
Their record in the Finals is 0-2 though. (And if our prayers are answered that will be 0-3 very shortly).
After this spring, we’ll take it.
Oh, and I’ll spin it this way – prior to this season, the last two road WC teams won a Cup within a season of their appearance in the WC.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
by J.P. on May 28, 2010 8:25 AM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
but if the hawks win, that means that the last two cup winners played in the wc the year before…
Just trying to capture the spirit of the thing...
by dcsportsfan1 on May 28, 2010 8:27 AM EDT up reply actions
i think you mean if my grandmother had balls she’d be my grandfather. BTW, she has neither.
Just trying to capture the spirit of the thing...
by dcsportsfan1 on May 28, 2010 10:02 AM EDT up reply actions
Then you’d finally have an excuse to ride her.
I waited all year for this?
by Rob Parker on May 28, 2010 12:21 PM EDT up reply actions 3 recs
It’s always a pleasure watching you storm the masses at noon sir.
They're coming.
by Bald Pollack on May 28, 2010 12:23 PM EDT up reply actions
This works for me. Who would have “thunk it”: Flyers in the finals. Clearly the secret of success is picking up a goalie last minute on waivers.
"I’m very happy to hear the news," Ovechkin said when he heard about Backstrom's longterm contract, "because he’s one of the top centers in the world, one of my best friends and we want to play together for a long time. He’s a guy who wants to stay in one place and be comfortable and win, just like me. We talk all the time about playing together, and we talked after the playoffs about how we can win in Washington."
by capsyoungguns on May 28, 2010 8:41 AM EDT up reply actions
Per the HHoF, on this date back in 1974, “In the NHL Amateur draft held in Montreal, the expansion Washington Capitals used the #1 pick overall to select Greg Joly. The Capitals then took Mike Marson 19th overall before the NY Islanders selected Bryan Trottier with their second choice (22nd Overall).” Oof.
they would go on to ensure an Islanders dynasty by selecting Robert Picard before Mike Bossy and Mark Lofthouse before John Tonelli. Those Isle’s knew what they were doing in the draft…I guess MIke Milbury was karma coming back at ’em.
Just trying to capture the spirit of the thing...
Smart that guy that Bill Torrey, Isles GM at the time
From his wikipedia entry…
“Rather than trade for veteran players in hopes of winning right away, Torrey was committed to building through the draft. He felt that pursuing a “win now” strategy didn’t make sense in the long run."
A clear conscience is usually the sign of a bad memory
by Rather Bengt on May 28, 2010 8:42 AM EDT up reply actions
That’s what happens when you pick an old Boston Bruin to run your expansion franchise.
by b.orr4 on May 28, 2010 8:46 AM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
well clearly the caps werent the only teams to pass on these guys. but yeah, i get the sense milt schmidt used newpaper clippings and second hand info he overheard in bars to make his draft selections.
Just trying to capture the spirit of the thing...
by dcsportsfan1 on May 28, 2010 8:54 AM EDT up reply actions
Actually, you can kind of understand Schmidt picking Joly #1 because at that time he was considered an absolute lock to become tne next great defenseman. The killer was that they had another shot at Trottier and instead selected Mike Marson.
yeah, i think marson has some pretty good offensive numbers too. but if i recall he was pretty young when he was drafted and thrown right into the NHL. not a good plan for a guy on an expansion team not to mention the issues of being the second black player in the nhl and first since the league expanded.
Just trying to capture the spirit of the thing...
by dcsportsfan1 on May 28, 2010 9:29 AM EDT up reply actions
Last year they announced the Winter Classic in the middle of July, during a down time for the NHL. This time, they’re announcing it leading into the Stanley Cup Finals. I wonder how Flyer/Blackhawk fans feel about the Sid & Ovi show usurping their spotlight?
"It hit me on the pants. I had protection. It felt good. Why? I wanted to win."
Yeah, the timing is a little odd. The NFL basically puts a ban on any big news announcements right before the Super Bowl. Same thing with MLB before the World Series.
my guess is its an attempt to drum up interest and remind people that, yes, it’s still technically hockey season.
#savethekittens!
Donation info for SAVES FOR KIDS 2010!! Make a difference.
Typically, don’t they have a temporary rink laid out on the field when they make these announcements? I know they did for Wrigley and Fenway. I’m still trying to figure how they’re going to play the Winter Classic and still have the field in decent shape if the Steelers have to play a game the following week. The groundskeeper at Fenway said it took a month for the grass to be considered playable again.
maybe the steelers won’t make the playoffs? the impact on the field is just another reason they should be holding it at Nats Parks
#savethekittens!
Donation info for SAVES FOR KIDS 2010!! Make a difference.
Baseball is more picky about field conditions. Football doesn’t really care.
"Yes, but Rimmer Directive 271 states just as clearly, 'No chance you metal ba****d.'"
not necessarily true, particularly for playoff games. they often bring in outside help to spruce up fields if needed, usually for championship games. this is pretty surprising that the NFL/steelers would allow this.
its one thing for a field to be torn up through normal football usage, another if the field was just crushed by the equipment needed to build a rink, much less the rink itself. i’m no agronomist, but i bet its hard to lay sod when the ground is frozen…
Just trying to capture the spirit of the thing...
by dcsportsfan1 on May 28, 2010 9:56 AM EDT up reply actions
Traditionally, the NFL is very picky about the state of their fields. In 2003, the league ordered the Patriots to replace the sod between the hashmarks before a divisional playoff game. And then in 2006, there were so many complaints about their field that the Patriots had to replace the entire field in the middle of the season.
Didn’t something happen in Baltimore a few years ago with that?
I never travel far....without a little Big Star...
Ron and Fez 11 to 3
by YvonLabresMoustache on May 28, 2010 10:03 AM EDT up reply actions
I can’t view youtubes at work so I’ll assume this is probably that Miami/Steelers game with the horrible weather?
Anyways, Heinz Field takes a beating. In addition to the NFL wear and tear, the Pitt Panthers play there and the high school championships are held on the same day. It’s a mess by December.
Sometimes the team just says “f it” and lays new sod on top of the playing surface, which can be disastrous if there’s bad weather — which usually there is that time of year. I’m assuming this is the contingency plan if Heinz Field has to host a playoff game in Jan 2011.
by Hooks Orpik on May 28, 2010 10:26 AM EDT up reply actions
And I’m particularly sensitive to this concern. Count me in the “should have been in PNC” lobby. I know Heinz has more hype to it, but PNC is a nice park and would have much more time to recover.
I waited all year for this?
I would have loved PNC if only for the cityscape backdrop. In a way though, that cheapens the game, it becomes the major gimmick — much like playing by the Green Monster or in Wrigley. The venue is the star.
In this game, quite appropriately, the venue will not be the star. Crosby and Ovechkin (and Backstrom, Malkin, Staal, Semin and so on) will be the ones on the main stage. I think that’s a good thing.
Plus a baseball stadium is just an awkward sightlines for a hockey game. I think a football stadium is more ideal for spectator viewing. Obviously that’s not the primary concern, but I think it’s a reasonable factor.
by Hooks Orpik on May 28, 2010 12:57 PM EDT up reply actions
And since Heinz has the open end they can probably stick the rink in the closed end for maximum viewing convenience. The Frozen 4 in Detroit this year was stupid. The NFL stadium was way too large and the rink was on one end of the field so anyone on the other end could probably barely see (CP2 was there and could clarify). Obviously Caps/Pens in PIT will out-draw a Frozen 4 (at least, I’d hope) so there shouldn’t be as many empty seats, but I still don’t think it works well to put a rink in a football stadium.
I waited all year for this?
for Frozens, they curtained off a section of field and erected temporary bleachers to get people closer to the ice.
#savethekittens!
Donation info for SAVES FOR KIDS 2010!! Make a difference.
They only used half the stadium. The rink was put at one end. They put temp bleachers on both sides of the rink and used a huge curtain to block off one half of the field/seats. The only truly bad sightlines were the temp seats behind the benches. Sure some of the lower level corner stuff was a mixed bag, but it was ok. I had friends who had seats in the club level seats on one end and those seats were great.
The biggest issue I had was that it felt cavernous because they only used half the stadium. If it had been packed with people it would have been much more fun.
When you go to a hockey game in any large stadium you have to realize half the reason you’re there is for the experience. If you want great sightlines and comfort, go to a game at a well constructed hockey arena instead.
"You ever use smelling salts, every time you type a bad blog?" Brooks Laich
I think there’s just too many people in a football stadium, particularly a football-only stadium. Its almost like playing the game in a giant cave.
I never travel far....without a little Big Star...
Ron and Fez 11 to 3
by YvonLabresMoustache on May 28, 2010 1:03 PM EDT up reply actions
Them some deplorable conditions. I seem to recall reading that Heinz Field had major drainage problems too. Hopefully Jim Craig and his crew can work with that.
"It hit me on the pants. I had protection. It felt good. Why? I wanted to win."
If Jim can’t do it, Daniel Plainview sure can.
They're coming.
by Bald Pollack on May 28, 2010 11:04 AM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
My straw reaches acrooooss the room and starts to drink your milkshake. I DRINK YOUR MILKSHAKE! I DRINK IT UP!
"Now wait a minute. This is just purely a social call. You know, just two adults getting a stew on, man."
by The Ghost of Bebop on May 28, 2010 11:07 AM EDT up reply actions
DDRRRRRRRAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAIIIIIIIIIIIINNAAAAAAAAGGGGGGE, my boy!
Of all our iniquities ignorance may be the worst
by Killer_Carlson on May 28, 2010 12:52 PM EDT up reply actions
That was my thought too. That NBC noticed a decline in viewership during this season’s playoffs – so much so that they told the NHL to do it now.
"It hit me on the pants. I had protection. It felt good. Why? I wanted to win."
you know why NBC sees a decline in viewers? Because their product sucks. Unless the Caps are playing, I don’t even bother watching Sunday NBC hockey anymore. And given that I’m willing to put up with any team playing any other team on Versus any night of the week, that really says something about the wretched state of NBC broadcasts.
#savethekittens!
Donation info for SAVES FOR KIDS 2010!! Make a difference.
by RedBirdie on May 28, 2010 9:54 AM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
Not to mention the allotted time they always give the NHL. 12pm Eastern? Really, NBC? And you wonder why you get shitty ratings on the west coast?
"It hit me on the pants. I had protection. It felt good. Why? I wanted to win."
With all the crap that network puts on you actually choose to use one of their decent shows as an example???
"You ever use smelling salts, every time you type a bad blog?" Brooks Laich
by Carl Putnam on May 28, 2010 11:07 AM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
They needed to have a strategy, and they didn’t appear to have one. Like take a few field trips to other venues. Take a look at Target Field. See what Coors Field has to offer. Or Citi Field. And make a show of it. The way this unfolded, with Pittsburgh ending up the default solution when the Pinstripe Bowl took Yankee Stadium out of the mix, left the league with the unhappy prospect of the news dribbling out and the “fact” of a Penguin/Capitals game established long before the league would perhaps have preferred to announce it in July. That press conference would have been a joke.
If you've read this far...seek help.
To be somewhat fair, Fenway as the site of last year’s game leaked out pretty early. The only surprise was the last minute replacement of the Caps with the Flyers. With Pittsburgh as the expected location, what kind of surprise could they have for an opponent?
"It's always good to have vikings."
With Pittsburgh as the expected location, what kind of surprise could they have for an opponent?
Wait until you see the defenseman they signed:
They're coming.
by Bald Pollack on May 28, 2010 9:49 AM EDT up reply actions
NHL? Strategy? I’m not sure those guys know the meaning of the word “strategy.”
#savethekittens!
Donation info for SAVES FOR KIDS 2010!! Make a difference.
rfk would have been a better choice IMO…oh well.
Just trying to capture the spirit of the thing...
by dcsportsfan1 on May 28, 2010 9:58 AM EDT up reply actions
Aside from RFK having its own bowl game, it’s also barely maintained, old as crap and not as big as Nats field.
They're coming.
by Bald Pollack on May 28, 2010 10:10 AM EDT up reply actions
RFK holds fewer people than Nats stadium?
Because now I can justify browsing and commenting during the work day with the argument that I am promoting my business.
by Sombrero Guy on May 28, 2010 10:12 AM EDT up reply actions
Pretty sure for football it holds 51.
I never travel far....without a little Big Star...
Ron and Fez 11 to 3
by YvonLabresMoustache on May 28, 2010 10:13 AM EDT up reply actions
nats park only holds 41 or thereabouts i believe.
I don’t have much tolerance for stupid. Or cheese on food that doesn’t need it. -duck
by twistedlogic on May 28, 2010 10:15 AM EDT up reply actions
According to Wiki, RFK holds 45 for baseball and Nats Park holds just under 42
I never travel far....without a little Big Star...
Ron and Fez 11 to 3
by YvonLabresMoustache on May 28, 2010 10:15 AM EDT up reply actions
But they got 46 in Nats Park when the Pope held a Mass there.
I never travel far....without a little Big Star...
Ron and Fez 11 to 3
by YvonLabresMoustache on May 28, 2010 10:16 AM EDT up reply actions
It’s the Pope. He can work mircacles.
by b.orr4 on May 28, 2010 11:05 AM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
divine intervention
I don’t have much tolerance for stupid. Or cheese on food that doesn’t need it. -duck
by twistedlogic on May 28, 2010 11:09 AM EDT up reply actions
because they put people on the field. lots and lots of people.
#savethekittens!
Donation info for SAVES FOR KIDS 2010!! Make a difference.
Really? I thought Nats Park would have held a helluva lot more.
They're coming.
by Bald Pollack on May 28, 2010 10:17 AM EDT up reply actions
it’s a very open park so it looks really big, think about the HUGE open concourses behind center-left on the main level and then also behind center and center-right on the second level (by the bars and Five Guys). The seats aren’t pitched very steeply, so it gives an additional illusion of added capacity because people are further from the field.
Just for comparison, Camden Yards has approximately the same capacity, but feels much more intimate. It lacks the open, sweeping concourses and the seats are much more steeply pitched.
#savethekittens!
Donation info for SAVES FOR KIDS 2010!! Make a difference.
Gotcha, I’ve only been once to Nats Park and haven’t been to OPaCY for awhile, I had no idea their capacities were so similar.
They're coming.
by Bald Pollack on May 28, 2010 12:49 PM EDT up reply actions
can you tell I spend a little too much time at each place?
Turns out I was a bit off, Camden holds 7,000 more than Nats Park! here are the exact numbers for baseball seating:
Nationals Park: 41,888
Camden Yards: 48,876
and yet, Camden feels “snugger.” (although the outfield is tiny, contributing to the feeling of the whole place being smaller)
#savethekittens!
Donation info for SAVES FOR KIDS 2010!! Make a difference.
That warehouse takes up half the outfield too.
I never travel far....without a little Big Star...
Ron and Fez 11 to 3
by YvonLabresMoustache on May 28, 2010 1:04 PM EDT up reply actions
yeah, that also contributes to the snug feeling, imo.
#savethekittens!
Donation info for SAVES FOR KIDS 2010!! Make a difference.
well, the could have moved that bowl game earlier. and rfk would hold 55K for a hockey game, nat park about 42K. and given its tight configuration, would be perfect for a hockey game vs. the configuration of a baseball stadium.
it would not take too much time to put some lipstick on that pig for one game. nbc/nfl dont care if the parking lots are busted up or the infrastructure is crumbling as long as it looks good in the inside. imagine the seats bouncing and stadium rocking like it did when the skins were playing. a no brainer except for iffy temps…
Just trying to capture the spirit of the thing...
by dcsportsfan1 on May 28, 2010 10:16 AM EDT up reply actions
There are also scores of broken/unreplaced seats, untouched facility areas and small pieces of the lower bowl that are starting to swallow its attendees.
Let go of the romanticism of the bouncing seats, it’s not a pig, it’s a petrified piece of crap.
They're coming.
by Bald Pollack on May 28, 2010 10:22 AM EDT up reply actions
again, nothing that couldnt be fixed in six months, even with DC running the show.
as for the romanticism of the place/seats, kinda depends upon your particular experience in the place. lots of long time fans such as myself, have tons of great memories there. i would also say that on a national level, folks are pretty familiar with RFK as a venue that has been host to many big time football events over the past fourty years. and that’s pretty much what the league has been going for recently. RFK is not wrigley or fenway, but not many places are.
Just trying to capture the spirit of the thing...
by dcsportsfan1 on May 28, 2010 10:37 AM EDT up reply actions
Sorry, but that is a dream. The place has always been a dump. No way you could fix it up to the degree that is needed. I was there last fall and it was even worse than I remembered.
"You ever use smelling salts, every time you type a bad blog?" Brooks Laich
by Carl Putnam on May 28, 2010 10:40 AM EDT up reply actions
if i recall, they were able to fix it up enough to host a 81 baseball games in 2005 with only six months or so notice.
its a moot point now though.
Just trying to capture the spirit of the thing...
by dcsportsfan1 on May 28, 2010 10:43 AM EDT up reply actions
Right, and the team was willing to go along with it as best as possible because the other park was getting built.
Now, there aren’t that many seats and WCSA isn’t doing any renovations or improvements (save for the parking lot, which they had to do because of the criticism for dumping all the snow there) and the team that’s there isn’t going to pay for any.
They're coming.
by Bald Pollack on May 28, 2010 10:48 AM EDT up reply actions
MLB was just happy someone took the Expos. No way NHL is going to put their premiere regular season event in that dump.
Looking at it from an unbiased point of view, the NHL made the right decision. Heinz was the place to have it at and the Caps were the logical choice for opposition. They can spend months schilling Sid vs Ovi to casual fans.
As for me, I don’t really care about WC from a Caps fan perspective. It’s one of eighty two regular season games and the regular season itself means nothing.
"You ever use smelling salts, every time you type a bad blog?" Brooks Laich
by Carl Putnam on May 28, 2010 10:48 AM EDT up reply actions
I still think PNC Park would have been a better choice of venue for the game. Much more beautiful and picturesque than the Football stadium is.
I never travel far....without a little Big Star...
Ron and Fez 11 to 3
by YvonLabresMoustache on May 28, 2010 10:55 AM EDT up reply actions
Agreed. I love that stadium. Great view of the skyline too.
Because now I can justify browsing and commenting during the work day with the argument that I am promoting my business.
by Sombrero Guy on May 28, 2010 10:57 AM EDT up reply actions
And the seats face the river. Its gorgeous, which is why it consistently gets rated either at the top or near the top of any list of “Best MLB Ballparks”
I never travel far....without a little Big Star...
Ron and Fez 11 to 3
by YvonLabresMoustache on May 28, 2010 10:58 AM EDT up reply actions
debatable.
Because now I can justify browsing and commenting during the work day with the argument that I am promoting my business.
by Sombrero Guy on May 28, 2010 11:50 AM EDT up reply actions
I prefer a football stadium set up myself, but I get why people like the baseball ones. Folks I know who have been to PNC rave about it. Unfortunately, its wasted on the Pirates.
"You ever use smelling salts, every time you type a bad blog?" Brooks Laich
by Carl Putnam on May 28, 2010 10:58 AM EDT up reply actions
i guess my last word on that would be that you and anyone who has been there recently know its in bad shape. but the rest of the potential viewing audience doesnt know that. they know if from the nfc championship game and numerous nationally televised games played there. the bouncing seats, the fans right on top of the action.
nbc/nhl want to sell the story. and so far the story has been partly about the venue. from 80+K in buffalo to iconic baseball stadiums. you know they would cut video of manley sacking danny white with ov making a big hit. theismann td passes with ov goals, etc. what would the story be about nats park? even heinz field doesnt have much cache…
Just trying to capture the spirit of the thing...
by dcsportsfan1 on May 28, 2010 11:14 AM EDT up reply actions
The hockey press would have a field day talking about all the issues at RFK.
RFK is not iconic to anyone who grew up more than 60 miles away from DC. I don’t consider it iconic myself. It was an average stadium at best when it was built and went downhill from there.
"You ever use smelling salts, every time you type a bad blog?" Brooks Laich
by Carl Putnam on May 28, 2010 11:23 AM EDT up reply actions
didnt say rfk was iconic, just noted it’s got a lot of history on a local and national level. you may not feel that way, but many others do.
Just trying to capture the spirit of the thing...
by dcsportsfan1 on May 28, 2010 12:03 PM EDT up reply actions
Aren’t “iconic” and having a “lot of history” pretty much the same thing?
I never travel far....without a little Big Star...
Ron and Fez 11 to 3
by YvonLabresMoustache on May 28, 2010 12:08 PM EDT up reply actions
Thanks YLM. If you talk to people around the country, RFK is not going to come up as a place that oozes sports history. As a matter of fact RFK most likely will never come up at all unless you mention the Redskins to someone.
"You ever use smelling salts, every time you type a bad blog?" Brooks Laich
by Carl Putnam on May 28, 2010 12:30 PM EDT up reply actions
And most people forget, for most of their existence in RFK (outside of the 80s, and a few years in the 70s), the Redskins were godawful. Besides, its a basic multipurpose stadium in an era that was full of multipurpose stadiums. Its no different than Three Rivers, or Riverfront, or even Shea or Veterans.
I never travel far....without a little Big Star...
Ron and Fez 11 to 3
by YvonLabresMoustache on May 28, 2010 12:37 PM EDT up reply actions
To be fair you have to mention the illustrious history of the Senators and the Diplomats in RFK.
"You ever use smelling salts, every time you type a bad blog?" Brooks Laich
by Carl Putnam on May 28, 2010 12:41 PM EDT up reply actions
That’s fair, but in Fenway and Wrigley, they’ve got hosts who aren’t leaving there in the foreseeable future (that I know of), presumably have ownership of the grounds so they can actively keep the maintenance going. With RFK, WSCA bills DC United (a soccer team who isn’t making money and is looking to leave RFK) for any repairs or maintenance. And it’s safe to say that noticeable repairs haven’t been made on the stadium since the Nats left it. You can’t just make up for 5 and a half years of neglect in 9 months just because you want bouncy seats, to say nothing of the fact that WCSA is unlikely to cut the league or Leonsis much of a generous percentage from concessions and merchandise, of which both are substandard and atrocious.
They're coming.
by Bald Pollack on May 28, 2010 12:11 PM EDT up reply actions
I’m not sure size matters (hey now!) all that much, for two reasons: 1) it’s really a made-for-TV event anyway, and the dollars gained on attendance is a tiny portion of the overall pie, and 2) if they somehow don’t sell out, it’s an utter disaster – better to cram people in to a smaller stadium than to have a ton of empties in, say, FedEx (and I know this discussion didn’t include FedEx, but I threw it in there anyway).
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
If size doesn’t matter, more’s the reason to hold it in a modern and (semi)-accessible stadium.
They're coming.
by Bald Pollack on May 28, 2010 10:23 AM EDT up reply actions
Agreed.
And size doesn’t matter – it’s not the size of the wand, it’s the magic in it.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
if they somehow don’t sell out, it’s an utter disaster – better to cram people in to a smaller stadium than to have a ton of empties
I think this is also a big reason Jerry Jones won’t get a Winter Classic in the new Cowboys Stadium. I know people will look at the weather and it’s not a traditional market, but I think the real non-starter for the NHL is the idea of 30% or more of Cowboys Stadium empty for the entire country to see.
I waited all year for this?
I don’t understand why they couldn’t sell out those games, no matter what the size. I mean, just slash ticket prices a bit. Dallas is going to be able to sell out, as hockey is strong there (or so I read).
Cидни Kросби: Александр Oвечкин, он твой папа теперь
Red Line Station: for Capitals fans who can bear reading something less intelligent than a story at Japers' Rink
(note name change)
by red army line on May 28, 2010 1:32 PM EDT up reply actions
Prices and who the Stars opponent would be seem like the main issues to me in terms of selling out. I think it could be done. However, I’m pretty sure that is going to be a couple more years down the road.
"You ever use smelling salts, every time you type a bad blog?" Brooks Laich
It’s definitely down the road, but I’m skeptical they can sell out that Stadium for a hockey game. How many people does it seat? I know DAL has a decent hockey market but selling out Cowboys Stadium is like selling out 4 Stars games at once, maybe even more.
I waited all year for this?
Is there really that much apathy with regards to hockey around America?
Cидни Kросби: Александр Oвечкин, он твой папа теперь
Red Line Station: for Capitals fans who can bear reading something less intelligent than a story at Japers' Rink
(note name change)
by red army line on May 28, 2010 1:41 PM EDT up reply actions
A lot of people who are not year-round hockey fans, but who are sports fans, will go to see a sporting spectacle that happens once perhaps in their lifetime where they live.
As for TX, I’m a native (actually born in Dallas, but grew up in Houston), lived there until I was 29, and Texans like spectacles as much as anyone. If it’s big and novel, they’ll go just to say they went. Believe it or not, Dallas is a fairly cosmopolitan place with many transplants, not just the natives. In watching the Modano tribute I noticed a number of cowboy hats on Stars fans.
I liken it just a little bit to my going to the rodeo growing up. I did not raise or rope calves, nor did I race around barrels on a horse (though I had an uncle with a ranch in Odessa). However, I loved going to the rodeo because it was a big event, a spectacle, and you didn’t want to miss what everyone was talking about.
This is true — it is easy for non-residents to forget how huge and full of imports the DFW metro area actually is. (Even has it’s own Arlington!) As long as they kept the game in Dallas, rather than moving it a couple hours down I-35 to Austin, that is. Of all the southern markets, it might be the only one that could hold the WC without it looking empty.
Looks like I picked the wrong season to stop sniffing glue.
This is my reasoning, that people will go to a once-in-a-lifetime event, hockey or not. Sort of like going to the WC in Germany. I bet lots of those people aren’t general hockey fans (or I’m underestimating Germans) but are going since it’s the freaking World Championships.
Cидни Kросби: Александр Oвечкин, он твой папа теперь
Red Line Station: for Capitals fans who can bear reading something less intelligent than a story at Japers' Rink
(note name change)
by red army line on May 29, 2010 3:34 AM EDT up reply actions
RFK will never get a game like this and is barely a major league facility. Once DC United leaves, I am sure the “Congressional Bowl” will be moved to Nats Park, Ravens Stadium, or perhaps even Byrd Stadium.
Come to think of it, Byrd would have been a good choice for the Classic. 45,000 seats, lots of great sightlines, easy to get to/from (I’ve never had a problem getting there on football Saturday)…. ah well.
Washington Capitals 2009-10 = Quebec Nordiques 1994-95
--- D'ohboy
by MikeL-Pivonka on May 28, 2010 1:20 PM EDT up reply actions
Anybody else book a room in Pittsburgh yet? My friends and I booked some last week like half a mile from Heinz Field, just in case. I figure the rates might jump up a bit if Demand shoots up.
Because now I can justify browsing and commenting during the work day with the argument that I am promoting my business.
We usually stay in Monroeville when we go to Pittsburgh, but traffic is such a bitch getting into the City through the Squirrel Hill Tunnel that we’re thinking of staying in the City next time we go.
I never travel far....without a little Big Star...
Ron and Fez 11 to 3
by YvonLabresMoustache on May 28, 2010 10:17 AM EDT up reply actions
Grabbed a room in Monroeville. Guess we’ll just have to deal with the traffic. Have until 4:00 p.m. on the 31st to cancel.
That’s the route I’ll be taking too.
They were doing Parkway construction when I was up last month (shocker) so maybe things will be a little better.
by Hooks Orpik on May 28, 2010 12:13 PM EDT up reply actions
The PA Turnpike is just awful right now, construction all over the place, at least the stretch between Breezewood and Ohio. And I have to travel it again in three months, although we’re thinking about going out of the way through WV to avoid it.
"It's always good to have vikings."
I traveled to PGH once a month for the better part of 3 years when I handled the Subway Restaurant local market advertising up there. The turnpike was ALWAYS a mess.
Because now I can justify browsing and commenting during the work day with the argument that I am promoting my business.
by Sombrero Guy on May 28, 2010 12:40 PM EDT up reply actions
It’s never good.
Though there are parts from Breezewood to Pittsburgh that are nice in terms of 3 lanes that are actually finished and a decent driving surface and none of the trademark jersey barriers. As gf pointed to though, it doesn’t last long.
They’ve been working on that stretch of road from Monroeville to the Squirrel Hill Tunnel for as long as I’ve been going there.
From our last trip a few days ago, it seems like they have it down to where they’re doing that stuff at night, which is what they should be doing. On the way back (we left at night) it seemed like the entire Pike was alive with construction and police. It was like an entire subterranean community just rose out of the depths of the earth.
I never travel far....without a little Big Star...
Ron and Fez 11 to 3
by YvonLabresMoustache on May 28, 2010 1:06 PM EDT up reply actions
But of course, its always terrible from Monroeville to the City at the Squirrel Hill Tunnel because of all the absolute idiots slamming on their brakes when they get in the Tunnel.
I never travel far....without a little Big Star...
Ron and Fez 11 to 3
by YvonLabresMoustache on May 28, 2010 1:07 PM EDT up reply actions
I grabbed the Marriott across from Mellon (“Official Hotel of the Pittsburgh Penguins”) last night with points, and not a moment too soon. I looked this morning, and there were rooms still available, but not for points.
"It's always good to have vikings."
I reserved a room at the Pittsburgh Marriott City Center. Not cheap, but I can cancel up until Dec. 30, so we’ll see.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
If worse comes to worse, it might be a really interesting (and cheap) idea to stay in Somerset or Uniontown and just drive the two hours.
I never travel far....without a little Big Star...
Ron and Fez 11 to 3
by YvonLabresMoustache on May 28, 2010 10:38 AM EDT up reply actions
We did the Pittsburgh Hilton. They had a discount for GOVT ID employees, so a buddy of mine reserved rooms in his name. I think it was only $119. Same deal though, we can cancel by 12/30
Because now I can justify browsing and commenting during the work day with the argument that I am promoting my business.
by Sombrero Guy on May 28, 2010 10:56 AM EDT up reply actions
New Years Eve… in Pittsburgh. Oh, freakin’ happy day.
If you've read this far...seek help.
by ThePeerless on May 28, 2010 11:13 AM EDT up reply actions
Are we all assuming that the Caps STH will get first crack at some seats?
Because now I can justify browsing and commenting during the work day with the argument that I am promoting my business.
by Sombrero Guy on May 28, 2010 11:51 AM EDT up reply actions
I have friends in Johnstown, PA about 90 minutes from the stadium. He and I will probably go to the game, so I’ll just stay with him on New Years Eve. My wife and his wife will hang out on the 1st and do things together (mostly mocking the fact that we’re sitting out in the cold at Heinz…)
Washington Capitals 2009-10 = Quebec Nordiques 1994-95
--- D'ohboy
by MikeL-Pivonka on May 28, 2010 1:18 PM EDT up reply actions
Only a half-hour until the Ovechkin Wrap. Pity to waste it on such a dead day, but you, loyal readers, deserve to be fed.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
Lunch time!
If you've read this far...seek help.
by ThePeerless on May 28, 2010 11:21 AM EDT up reply actions 2 recs
Disturbing…
"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 May 28, 2010 11:23 AM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
Tastes like ham that went bad in April.
They're coming.
by Bald Pollack on May 28, 2010 11:26 AM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
For the draft geeks: tsn’s combine blog is up and running.
What can I say I’m a JP fangirl. I will follow him into the darkest and filthiest of alleys, even the comment section at Puck Daddy.
Thanks. Hopefully one day NHL network will have combine coverage like NFL network does. I know that doesn’t help you out though Ice Warrior.
"You ever use smelling salts, every time you type a bad blog?" Brooks Laich
by Carl Putnam on May 28, 2010 10:50 AM EDT up reply actions
The NBA just started doing combine coverage this year, so it’s slowly (surely?) spreading.
They're coming.
by Bald Pollack on May 28, 2010 10:52 AM EDT up reply actions
Nope no NHL network in Sweden unfortunately. Fingers crossed that I somehow will be able to watch the draft. atdhe helped me out last year.
What can I say I’m a JP fangirl. I will follow him into the darkest and filthiest of alleys, even the comment section at Puck Daddy.
Looks like Bob McKenzie is live tweeting the combine.
"You ever use smelling salts, every time you type a bad blog?" Brooks Laich
by Carl Putnam on May 28, 2010 11:24 AM EDT up reply actions
B-Mac is a whole damned flock of birds!
If you've read this far...seek help.
by ThePeerless on May 28, 2010 11:43 AM EDT up reply actions
When are Winter Classic Tix supposed to go on sale?
I never travel far....without a little Big Star...
Ron and Fez 11 to 3
by YvonLabresMoustache on May 28, 2010 10:59 AM EDT reply actions
to STHers or the general public?
#savethekittens!
Donation info for SAVES FOR KIDS 2010!! Make a difference.
Gen Pub. I’m not fancy enough to be an STH.
I never travel far....without a little Big Star...
Ron and Fez 11 to 3
by YvonLabresMoustache on May 28, 2010 1:07 PM EDT up reply actions
as I said last night, I did the general public lottery (way less seat at Chicago, though) for 2009, and I don’t think we could even put our names in until October-ish.
#savethekittens!
Donation info for SAVES FOR KIDS 2010!! Make a difference.
Probably after the STHers.
Washington Capitals 2009-10 = Quebec Nordiques 1994-95
--- D'ohboy
by MikeL-Pivonka on May 28, 2010 1:21 PM EDT up reply actions
The new Intent to Blow is pretty funny. Some people around here get a wee bit sensitive, so warning that it makes fun of Ovi.
"You ever use smelling salts, every time you type a bad blog?" Brooks Laich
I admit this made me smile.
"Russian failing machine never breaks," Ovechkin reportedly told a Russian TV station after the parade."
What can I say I’m a JP fangirl. I will follow him into the darkest and filthiest of alleys, even the comment section at Puck Daddy.
Just signed up to give blood for the first time in my life
on July 24 so I can meet John Carlson, get a bobblehead, a T-shirt and an autograph. That is enough to drive me in there.
Anyone else going?
booked for 11 am
Because now I can justify browsing and commenting during the work day with the argument that I am promoting my business.
by Sombrero Guy on May 28, 2010 12:41 PM EDT up reply actions
been stuck in a wretched meeting all morning, but reading Steinberg taking potshots at Pittsburgh’s white outs from 9:30 chat has brightened my day.
#savethekittens!
Donation info for SAVES FOR KIDS 2010!! Make a difference.
got a link?
Because now I can justify browsing and commenting during the work day with the argument that I am promoting my business.
by Sombrero Guy on May 28, 2010 1:18 PM EDT up reply actions
of course! He gets a couple other nice shots in, too.
#savethekittens!
Donation info for SAVES FOR KIDS 2010!! Make a difference.
sweet, thanks!
Because now I can justify browsing and commenting during the work day with the argument that I am promoting my business.
by Sombrero Guy on May 28, 2010 2:05 PM EDT up reply actions
when are they going to make the bloody announcement?
#savethekittens!
Donation info for SAVES FOR KIDS 2010!! Make a difference.
2 pm, or thereabouts. It gets buried in Bettman’s state of the NHL address.
"It's always good to have vikings."
2010-11 schedule released June 22
October 7th opening night of the season in Toronto
DC gets outdoor game in the next two to three years
"It's always good to have vikings."
DC gets outdoor game in the next two to three years
Huh? So we’re not playing in the WC this year?
Sometimes, you really just want to hit a b**ch.
Was just typing that. But the cap is contingent on the 5% escalator invoked by the PA.
"It's always good to have vikings."
clarification, per Corey
Bettman: Salary cap could go up $2 million next year if the NHLPA chooses to accept 5 percent escalator.
John Carlson - Glory follows him.
Well, that makes it harder to complain about Pittsburgh getting in a second WC, I guess.
Sometimes, you really just want to hit a b**ch.
Unless it ends up being Pens/Caps at Nationals Park, of course. Better be someone new.
"It's always good to have vikings."
Well, he didn’t rule it out that it would Pens-Caps again. Just said it wouldn’t necessarily be those two teams.
I’d like the Rangers. Save Philly and Pittsburgh for each other.
Cидни Kросби: Александр Oвечкин, он твой папа теперь
Red Line Station: for Capitals fans who can bear reading something less intelligent than a story at Japers' Rink
(note name change)
by red army line on May 29, 2010 3:35 AM EDT up reply actions
I really don’t care who is at Nats Park on Jan 1. I just want to throw a bitchin’ Rink party for y’all.
#savethekittens!
Donation info for SAVES FOR KIDS 2010!! Make a difference.
In 2013 2014 2015 we’re going to hold you to that.
by CapitalCentre on May 28, 2010 4:51 PM EDT up reply actions
I’m not going to slack off on my efforts to see the Caps this coming WC because there is no guarantee that Bettman doesn’t change his mind about hosting in DC.
Because now I can justify browsing and commenting during the work day with the argument that I am promoting my business.
by Sombrero Guy on May 28, 2010 2:56 PM EDT up reply actions
wait, WHAT?!?!
DC, the city that the sporting gods take particular delight in making miserable, is getting a WC? really? REALLY?!
well, hell, ignore all my ranting from the past 24 hours!
#savethekittens!
Donation info for SAVES FOR KIDS 2010!! Make a difference.
Honestly? I think he gets fair bit more abuse than he deserves. Not to say he doesn’t deserve some, of course.
"It's always good to have vikings."
I agree. Man takes a lot of abuse, but as far as what he’s done for the Owners? After they absolutely DEMOLISHED the Player’s Union in the aftermath of the lockout, they’ll never let the guy go.
I never travel far....without a little Big Star...
Ron and Fez 11 to 3
by YvonLabresMoustache on May 28, 2010 2:24 PM EDT up reply actions
And, to be honest, his more egregious mistakes are in the past. He’s gotten better so firing him now for that stuff is kinda pointless, as long as he’s learned his lessons. I’m still not thrilled with him and will always crack jokes at his expense, but a lot of the current bile directed at him is driven by the Canadian media’s feeling that they’ve been slighted by the Sunbelt Strategy.
I waited all year for this?
If the ComCast/NBC thing gets regulatory approval, he’ll look like an absolute genius for putting the NHL on Versus.
I never travel far....without a little Big Star...
Ron and Fez 11 to 3
by YvonLabresMoustache on May 28, 2010 2:34 PM EDT up reply actions
I think the mistakes he made when he first arrived including stripping some of the history from the game continue to haunt him. The sunbelt strategy makes him a pariah with the crazy coots up North. The lockout and subsequent TV deal didn’t exactly help either.
Most of all though his demeanor never does him any favors. Like Stern he comes across with a “smarter than you” arrogance. Stern at least does it with a smile.
"You ever use smelling salts, every time you type a bad blog?" Brooks Laich
Agreed, he just rubs people the wrong way. I think stripping the history, terrible marketing and the lockout are the three biggest problems. I don’t like all the particulars of the Sunbelt strategy but it was necessary and so far has shown a lot of promise. He needed to address the clutching and grabbing stuff earlier, and not let the TV situation get so out of hand, but that can’t be fixed now.
I waited all year for this?
The media really needs to be taken to task for the complaints about the Sunbelt strategy. I have some issues with the details, but the overall concept was sound and necessary one. You have a mass migration south in this country and people complain about moving sports franchises in the same direction.
"You ever use smelling salts, every time you type a bad blog?" Brooks Laich
A lot of people also tend to blame Bettman for everything, ignoring the fact that the owners and several other actors play a role in how things change in the NHL (sorta like how the President gets all the blame/credit regardless of whether or not it is deserved).
I gotta give him credit for hosting a call in radio show on XM every week, as far as I know no other commissioner opens himself up to fans like that. And while he obviously isn’t letting everything out he isn’t giving cliche responses either. I think he does a good job being as candid as he can be and not dodging the questions that callers ask him.
Of all our iniquities ignorance may be the worst
by Killer_Carlson on May 28, 2010 2:56 PM EDT up reply actions
I listen to the show on occasion. The problem is he comes off arrogant on that platform as well. They needs to find a true co-host for that show. One that will help smooth out his rough edges and let him seem like a human being.
"You ever use smelling salts, every time you type a bad blog?" Brooks Laich
Well to be fair it’s hard to not sound arrogant when he’s facing some of the stupid ideas caller’s put forth. I heard one guy call in after the season ended suggesting that the league should retire Modano’s number league wide like Gretzky. Bettman was tactful in pointing out that Modano isn’t even retired yet, and he was much more restrained than I would have been if I were faced with such a mind bottlingly dumb idea.
Of all our iniquities ignorance may be the worst
by Killer_Carlson on May 28, 2010 3:06 PM EDT up reply actions
Oh, I get that. My faves are the conspiracy nuts followed by TV questions. Not sure where some of these people were educated.
His comments on his last show before the playoffs about the officiating were golden. He needs to be more like that all of the time.
"You ever use smelling salts, every time you type a bad blog?" Brooks Laich
new Masisak
on FA defensemen, with a notable omission.
On the Forecheck: preaching the Predators' gospel to the unwashed masses.
Twitter/Cycle Like the Sedins
Yeah, have no idea.
On the Forecheck: preaching the Predators' gospel to the unwashed masses.
Twitter/Cycle Like the Sedins
by Chris Burton on May 28, 2010 2:34 PM EDT up reply actions
So NY has to be on deck for the WC, right? They still haven’t done one there and you know they have to. So who plays? Do they make it a faux-Subway series and go NYR v. NYI? Do they go for the baseball/cultural angle and do NYR v. BOS? Do they somehow keep NYR out or incorporate NJD? Do they bring in another major market and do NYR v. LAK or CHI? Lots of possibilities.
I waited all year for this?
If the Rangers have to play, which I agree that they do; then I hope its against the Devils for entertainment purposes. They might make more money against the Islanders but what a bore.
Besides seeing the Wild get one of these, I’d love to see (and no, it’ll never happen) the Blue Jackets play a game at the Horseshoe.
On the Forecheck: preaching the Predators' gospel to the unwashed masses.
Twitter/Cycle Like the Sedins
by Chris Burton on May 28, 2010 2:33 PM EDT up reply actions
I hope its against the Devils for entertainment purposes
Devils and entertainment, now those are two words you don’t hear connected too often.
by b.orr4 on May 28, 2010 2:37 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
No more Lemaire, and they’ve got Parise. I love me some Parise.
On the Forecheck: preaching the Predators' gospel to the unwashed masses.
Twitter/Cycle Like the Sedins
by Chris Burton on May 28, 2010 2:38 PM EDT up reply actions
Like I said below, I don’t have the problems with the Devils you do.
On the Forecheck: preaching the Predators' gospel to the unwashed masses.
Twitter/Cycle Like the Sedins
by Chris Burton on May 28, 2010 2:45 PM EDT up reply actions
Wow, you stepped into it here. The Devils for entertainment purposes? You are crazy, boy. First of all, we all know about the Devils trap. We’ll see what happens with the new coach (and Kovalchuk), but I don’t expect a huge organizational change. The Devils aren’t an exciting team, so you’re making an assumption that because they are a better team it will be a better game. But where you are really wrong, is in your total underestimation of NYR/NYI games. Those games are always great, no matter what the standings say. The fans and players don’t like each other and it’s a great atmosphere. Plus, despite not being very successful this year, NYI plays an exciting game. Scott Gordon loves to attack and skate. He wants his teams to pressure and use speed. They didn’t have the personnel to do it this year, but he didn’t bitch out and run a trap. They will be even better next year (and might have Cam Fowler!) so a NYR/NYI match up is really the only option if they are going to make it a local clash, IMO.
I waited all year for this?
by Rob Parker on May 28, 2010 2:39 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
I agree. NYR/NYI would be a much better matchup.
I never travel far....without a little Big Star...
Ron and Fez 11 to 3
by YvonLabresMoustache on May 28, 2010 2:40 PM EDT up reply actions
The concern is that it won’t draw national attention. I’m not really sure if it would or not, but it would be a good game.
I waited all year for this?
I think they could sell the hell out of all the young talent NYI has, like Tavares, Moulson, Okposo, etc. And Streit is always a blast to watch.
I never travel far....without a little Big Star...
Ron and Fez 11 to 3
by YvonLabresMoustache on May 28, 2010 2:44 PM EDT up reply actions
I wouldn’t have had a problem if him or Oshie had been on Team USA. They probably both should have been on the team.
I never travel far....without a little Big Star...
Ron and Fez 11 to 3
by YvonLabresMoustache on May 28, 2010 2:47 PM EDT up reply actions
Before the tourney? Wouldn’t have gone with Drury, probably wouldn’t have gone with Malone.
After the tourney? Wouldn’t have gone with Kessel.
I never travel far....without a little Big Star...
Ron and Fez 11 to 3
by YvonLabresMoustache on May 28, 2010 2:50 PM EDT up reply actions
Exactly. Kessel is the one guy that should have been cut, but there was no way Burke/Wilson was going to do that. Drury was very good, as was Callahan. They were head scratchers but were huge on the PK.
I waited all year for this?
Ugh, Kessel. So disappointing.
On the Forecheck: preaching the Predators' gospel to the unwashed masses.
Twitter/Cycle Like the Sedins
by Chris Burton on May 28, 2010 2:59 PM EDT up reply actions
Yeah I just decided that he transposed “Devils” for “Islanders”.
NYR/NYI might be a good WC game in 2012, if NYI’s young guys keep progressing they might even be the better team at that time.
Tavares was coming around like Stamkos did at the end of his first year. I wouldn’t be surprised to see him become a real star this coming season.
JT isn’t the type of player (obviously) Stamkos is, though. He’s a two way center with nowhere close to the points ceiling of Stamkos or Duchene, so its going to take him some time to get his reputation up, I think.
On the Forecheck: preaching the Predators' gospel to the unwashed masses.
Twitter/Cycle Like the Sedins
by Chris Burton on May 28, 2010 2:46 PM EDT up reply actions
should be clear
That I value Tavares very highly and he’s extremely good, not trying to shit on him at all.
On the Forecheck: preaching the Predators' gospel to the unwashed masses.
Twitter/Cycle Like the Sedins
by Chris Burton on May 28, 2010 2:49 PM EDT up reply actions
I’m not so sure of that. Tavares isn’t a great skater, but he did break Gretzky’s OHL points (and goals?) records, for crying out loud. I think his ceiling is pretty high, but it’ll come (if it does) if he gets better at skating and I guess plays like Mario Lemieux (the only comparable I can come up with off the top of my head). Maybe Jagr.
Cидни Kросби: Александр Oвечкин, он твой папа теперь
Red Line Station: for Capitals fans who can bear reading something less intelligent than a story at Japers' Rink
(note name change)
by red army line on May 29, 2010 3:37 AM EDT up reply actions
Why Jagr or Lemieux? Tavares doesn’t have that same all around skill set. He has great hands and can finish but he’ll never be the puck control guy they are. He’s more of a Luc Robitaille type to me.
I waited all year for this?
Alright. I haven’t seen a ton of those guys aside from Jagr as it is. Lemieux just popped into my head because skating is both his and Tavares’ biggest weak point I guess, Jagr for foot speed.
Cидни Kросби: Александр Oвечкин, он твой папа теперь
Red Line Station: for Capitals fans who can bear reading something less intelligent than a story at Japers' Rink
(note name change)
by red army line on May 29, 2010 9:15 PM EDT up reply actions
Roughly half of both Stamkos’ and Tavares’ points this year came on the PP. JT also had just as good a year as Duchene, albeit on a much more poopier team, against better competition, and with worse teammates.
I never travel far....without a little Big Star...
Ron and Fez 11 to 3
by YvonLabresMoustache on May 28, 2010 2:52 PM EDT up reply actions
Roughly half of both Stamkos’ and Tavares’ points this year came on the PP. JT also had just as good a year as Duchene, albeit on a much more poopier team, against better competition, and with worse teammates.
I never travel far....without a little Big Star...
Ron and Fez 11 to 3
by YvonLabresMoustache on May 28, 2010 2:52 PM EDT up reply actions
Tavares’ skating isn’t even close to as good as Duchene’s or Stamkos’. Unless he gets much much better at skating he’s never going to be able to consistently create his own chances the way those other two can. He’ll be a hell of a finisher if he’s playing with a guy with the speed and vision to create the chances (maybe Okposo?), but I’d bet that Stamkos and Duchene end up being better players.
Of all our iniquities ignorance may be the worst
by Killer_Carlson on May 28, 2010 3:02 PM EDT up reply actions
Pretty much my thoughts as well. I think they’re going to need another guy to play next to him instead of Okposo, though.
On the Forecheck: preaching the Predators' gospel to the unwashed masses.
Twitter/Cycle Like the Sedins
by Chris Burton on May 28, 2010 3:04 PM EDT up reply actions
At the same time, Tavares goes to the net and got a lot of goals from near the crease. Stamkos set up at the top of the circle and relied on MSL passes. If he doesn’t have a guy that can hit those seams would Stamkos be able to do it on his own?
I waited all year for this?
Stamkos has the skating, hands and shot that I am pretty confident he can get goals another way if he doesn’t have that play. I don’t think it’s the only way he can score, but when he has MSL why switch things up when it works so well.
Tavares does crash the net well, but that still depends on someone gaining the zone and setting up the play to get the puck to the net. Sort of the way Knuble finishes but doesn’t really create the chances on his own, though Tavares clearly has a higher upside than being another Knuble.
Of all our iniquities ignorance may be the worst
by Killer_Carlson on May 28, 2010 3:58 PM EDT up reply actions
Tavares is going to be mostly a PP specialist, and I thought he came out of the gate hot and slumped down the stretch. I remember Knee frequently bitching about Tavares not producing.
I waited all year for this?
Isles just signed Travis Hamonic. He’s the guy who laid that nasty hit on Hall in Game One of the Memorial Cup.
More like crowing – he was playing for my division rival and I was convinced he’d hit the rookie wall.
Only YOU can prevent idiots from commenting!
by Knee high to a duck on May 28, 2010 3:35 PM EDT up reply actions
I think NYI will be the better team at the time, but we’ll see how it plays out. They’re going to get another good player this year in the draft, and it’ll probably be a D. They’ve got some real promise coming.
I waited all year for this?
They already had a chance at a young stud D two years ago. Still a baffling move to this day.
Of all our iniquities ignorance may be the worst
by Killer_Carlson on May 28, 2010 3:04 PM EDT up reply actions
Yeah it is puzzling, though with Shenn regressing a little it hurts a little less. Did any of the other picks turn into anything? Bailey seems like he could be a good 2C option for them.
I waited all year for this?
How did they pass on Schenn? He was picked before NYI had a pick. They missed Erik Karlsson and Tyler Myers, though.
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by Chris Burton on May 28, 2010 3:16 PM EDT up reply actions
They traded down twice. First with TOR and then with NSH. That’s how you got Wilson. NYI traded to 7th and didn’t take Schenn, then they traded to 9 and didn’t take Wilson.
I waited all year for this?
D’oh, shows what I get for not doing more than cursory legwork. Thanks.
Anyone remember why they didn’t take those guys? Seems odd.
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by Chris Burton on May 28, 2010 3:23 PM EDT up reply actions
Schenn had a tough sophmore season, but do you really think he’s still not gonna be great Dman for a long time?
Of all our iniquities ignorance may be the worst
by Killer_Carlson on May 28, 2010 4:00 PM EDT up reply actions
Or one last year – Hedman was an entirely defensible 1st overall pick and his rookie numbers in Tampa look pretty damn good.
Only YOU can prevent idiots from commenting!
by Knee high to a duck on May 28, 2010 3:50 PM EDT up reply actions
You know what’s crazy? Matt Moulson is the first 30 goal scorer on the Isles’ roster since Jason Blake, and the only Islanders who have scored more goals in a season than him in the last 10 years are Blake, Satan, Yashin, and Mariusz Czerkawski.
"Ovechkin, what is good in life?"
"To crush your enemies. To see them driven before you. And to hear the lamentations of their captain."
it's a trap!
come on, you have to include pictures
#savethekittens!
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by RedBirdie on May 28, 2010 2:43 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
Eh, fair enough – its your opinion, thats fine. I just don’t mind watching the Devils that much.
Admittedly, I’ve never seen a NYR/NYI game, just each team against Nashville or someone else. I’ll take your word for it.
Bottom line, I don’t want to watch the Rangers at all, but they’re going to get the game. I’d much rather see the Avalanche or Wild incorporated into the thing.
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by Chris Burton on May 28, 2010 2:44 PM EDT up reply actions
Said exactly what I was thinking, especially about NYR v. NYI always being entertaining. Good thing I z’ed through the responses first coughcough
Of all our iniquities ignorance may be the worst
by Killer_Carlson on May 28, 2010 2:58 PM EDT up reply actions
I would personally rather two teams from different cities meet, rather than having the Rangers meet either the Devils or Islanders. Like Rangers vs Buffalo. Or Islanders vs Columbus. Or NJ vs the Minnesota Wild I’ll admit my choice of opponents was random for each of the 3 NY/NJ area teams but purposely picked teams located in the US who hadn’t yet been in the Winter Classic.
If it were up to me, I would want to see a matchup between the Caps and Rangers. Or how about the Caps and St. Louis Blues?
Rocking the Red since 1975
CBJ definitely doesn’t draw the ratings and MIN probably doesn’t either.
I waited all year for this?
Rangers/Sharks would probably be the best idea from a hockey standpoint, but it’ll probably be Rangers/Red Wings. Not sure they really want to do another baseball stadium unless it’s Yankee Stadium. Maybe a college football stadium nearby?
"Yes, but Rimmer Directive 271 states just as clearly, 'No chance you metal ba****d.'"
Rangers and Kings would be my guess. It gets the two biggest markets in the U.S. and an exciting team in the Kings plus it brings in a Western Conference team. And I assume it will be played in Yankee Stadium.
...
Or Citi Field if the fuckin’ Pinstripe Bowl is still on for 1/1.
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by Chris Burton on May 28, 2010 2:37 PM EDT up reply actions
But what do the LAK TV ratings look like? They have people, but if the people don’t care is it the best idea? Maybe the gimmick of it attracts more casual LA fans.
I waited all year for this?
I’m sure the LA ratings are pretty mediocre. It is southern California, after all. But the Kings are on a huge upswing and attendance is following suit. The biggest problem would be the start time. 9:00am PST just wouldn’t work the day after New Year’s Eve.
Woohoo!
For the Caps and their fans, the best news is that Washington’s entire group of full season ticket holders will be able to purchase tickets to the event. Expect a mass pilgrimage of Caps fans driving west to Pittsburgh in the days and hours leading up to the New Year’s Day matinee tilt.
"It's always good to have vikings."
where did that quote come from?
Because now I can justify browsing and commenting during the work day with the argument that I am promoting my business.
by Sombrero Guy on May 28, 2010 3:03 PM EDT up reply actions
Vogs on caps.com
http://capitals.nhl.com/club/news.htm?id=530392&navid=DL|WSH|home
"It's always good to have vikings."
awesome.
Because now I can justify browsing and commenting during the work day with the argument that I am promoting my business.
by Sombrero Guy on May 28, 2010 3:20 PM EDT up reply actions
Caps website, article by Mike Vogel: http://capitals.nhl.com/club/news.htm?id=530392&navid=DL|WSH|home
There’s also a form to complete for Winter Classic updates and ticket information. I’m assuming a STH would automatically receive that information?
via e-mail to STHers:
Every Washington Capitals full-season account holder will have the opportunity to purchase tickets for the 2011 Bridgestone NHL Winter Classic. Details on ticket availability and pricing will be sent to full season-ticket holders when they become available. Other fans interested in attending the 2011 Bridgestone NHL Winter Classic are encouraged to sign up for ticket updates on WashingtonCaps.com.
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That e-mail made my day. As gimmicky and silly as the WC is, it’s going to be fun. I’m actually more excited then I figured I would be.
I’m silly-excited over it coming to DC. IN THREE YEARS. and yet, I have this big stupid grin on my face.
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@YLM/Pavel Kubina bandwagoner
Masisak in re: why he left off Kubina (in tweet to CP2Devil):
I left out Kubina (for the price tag, I don’t think he’s worth it)
On the Forecheck: preaching the Predators' gospel to the unwashed masses.
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Second part of his tweet -
but I forgot Hamuis – he was my 10th guy. Will try to fix.
"You ever use smelling salts, every time you type a bad blog?" Brooks Laich
aaaaaand scene.
Age: 27 2009-10 salary: $2.5 million ($2.0 cap hit)
2009-10 stats: 78 games, 5 goals, 24 points, 21:16 TOI
Hamhuis is a bit like Volchenkov in that there seems to be a lot of interest in him. Nashville didn’t deal him at the trade deadline, and the Predators would probably like to work out a long-term deal with him. The problem is the Predators are loaded with young defensemen – both at the NHL level and in the system – while their forwards leave a bit to be desired. If Hamhuis does reach the open market, he is the type of player who could surprise everyone with a big (i.e. more than he’s worth) deal on July 1. He’d be a great fit for some team at $3 million and maybe even at $3.5 million, but if the bidding reaches a salary that starts with 4 and is followed by six more numbers it might be a bit too much for his skill set.
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by Chris Burton on May 28, 2010 3:24 PM EDT up reply actions
That’s pretty much how I feel. If we could sign him for 3.5 I’d be very happy.
I waited all year for this?
Yeah I thought it was good analysis. TBH, thats about what he deserves. Someone’s going to overreact (Vancouver) and sign him for 4, though. If I’m Poile, I don’t go over 3.2 or so taking into consideration all our extenuating circumstances.
On the Forecheck: preaching the Predators' gospel to the unwashed masses.
Twitter/Cycle Like the Sedins
by Chris Burton on May 28, 2010 3:36 PM EDT up reply actions
TEB has some text of various remarks up. I expect to see more throughout the afternoon.
Bettman on DC hosting:
“In doing our due diligence for this game, we could not help but be impressed with the fan interest and the possibilities in Washington D.C.,” Bettman said. “And so our plan is to do an outdoor game in Washington in the next two to three years because we think that would be an excellent venue/opportunity/market/fan base for us to connect with, with this event, as well.”
Ted:
“I was really gratified when our commissioner today announced that there will be a game played here in Washington, D.C. I think our fan base has earned that right. I think that our franchise has arrived as one of the best franchise in professional hockey, and I know our fans will really embrace it. I don’t think there’s any city that’s more beautiful and more deserving than Washington D.C., and it really will be an honor when we drop the puck and play an outdoor game here in Washington in future years. And I’d like to thank the commissioner and all the people at the NHL and NBC for having that confidence in us and our fan base. We’ll work really hard, and I’ll be really proud to host it here for all of our fans.”
#savethekittens!
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On WaPo Live, Tarik made it sound like the season ticket holder guarantee and the game in DC in a couple of years were negotiated in return for playing in Pittsburgh this year. If true, Ted and his minions are shrewd negotiators.
"It's always good to have vikings."
very very very interesting.
#savethekittens!
Donation info for SAVES FOR KIDS 2010!! Make a difference.
AGord, on the mend.
http://blog.pennlive.com/patriotnewssports/2010/05/gordon_hopes_to_return_to_hers.html
Which is good, because without him their PP is basically poopoo.
Happy Birthday, Crazy Ron. You never failed to entertain.
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