Monday Caps Clips: Development Camp Day One
by J.P. on Jul 12, 2010 6:41 AM EDT
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Your savory breakfast links:
- Development Camp opens today and features four first round picks (Evgeny Kuznetsov (2010), Marcus Johansson (2009), Anton Gustafsson (2008) and Joe Finley (2005)) and the Caps' entire 2010 Draft class (Camp Media Guide available here in PDF). Today's sessions are at 9:45 and 2:30.
- Vogs tees up the week ahead. [Dump 'n Chase]
- Joe Finley's blogging for OFB (of course he is). Should be interesting. [OFB]
- For info on many of the invitees whose rights the Caps don't currently hold, check out sk84fun_dc's always outstanding work over at HFBoards. [HFBoards]
- Ninety-eight percent of Caps season ticket holders renewed their subscriptions for the 2010-11 season. That's a pretty remarkable number
given how brutally this team disappointedin this economy. [Bog] - Another plea for patience. [Red Line Station]
- Eric Fehr's humility is refreshing. [SB Nation DC]
- The Caps as '90s pop songs. Yep, it's summer. [Live In Red]
- Thanks to reader MH for sending in pics of him rocking his Tomas Fleischmann jersey across the pond in the Czech Republic. [Pic, Pic]
- Interesting note on trying to turn Milan Jurcina a little bit nasty (interesting note, too, on the currently unemployed Paul Mara). [Boston Globe]
- Finally, on a personal note, today marks the five-year anniversary of this blog's first post. Thanks to everyone - readers, writers, colleagues, friends and family - who have made it all worthwhile.
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Happy fifth anniversary to the best Capitals blog, and one of the best hockey blogs, that is out there!
by Cluster on Jul 12, 2010 6:44 AM EDT reply actions 24 recs
HFA JP!
Look at this signature line. Notice the lack of spelling errors and self-whoring?
by Bald Pollack on Jul 12, 2010 7:32 AM EDT up reply actions
“We Belong Together” by Mariah Carey was the number 1 song in the land when Japers Rink debuted.
4th Floor, is next, swimvare, undervare, Eric Fehr...
And Fantastic Four was the top movie that week. Apparently all the sane people were checking out some fancy new blog — everyone else was listening to music and seeing movies.
Congrats J.P. et al.
You don't have a career in the NHL until you break your face once, until you get a plate in it. - Mike Knuble
Blog: knublesknights.wordpress
Twitter: @knublesknights
Email: knublesknights (at) gmail (dot) com
by Knuble's Knights on Jul 12, 2010 8:07 AM EDT up reply actions
Gongratulations!
Atta dinnin stick a who!
by Gould Old Days on Jul 12, 2010 9:15 AM EDT up reply actions
Happy anniversary. Was that the first post ever (back on blogspot or whichever)? Time flies.
by CapitalCentre on Jul 12, 2010 9:18 AM EDT up reply actions
Five years ago
I had been married for all of two days. Guess I’ll have no trouble remembering the Rink’s ten year anniversary….
by bilspacecadet on Jul 12, 2010 12:07 PM EDT up reply actions
Happy Anniversary! I just stumbled across you guys a few weeks ago, and it’s great to have a place to discuss Caps stuff….especially since I’m an out of town fan now.
by funkyceili79 on Jul 12, 2010 3:18 PM EDT up reply actions
I will be at the Development Camp checking out our new 2C, or maybe not.
4th Floor, is next, swimvare, undervare, Eric Fehr...
Happy Anniversary to JP and friends!
Yesterday I found an interesting hockey cache I didn’t know I had — a supply of VHS tapes of the World Cup of Hockey 2004. Looks like I recorded all of USA’s games. I checked out a few minutes of one last night, and gagged a little when I realized it was played under the old rules.
"It's always good to have vikings."
Proud member of the Oxford dictionary police.
Thx JP. For those interested, there’s a link to local prospect Chris Bond’s development camp blog among other information.
Congrats on 5 years.
by sk84fun_dc on Jul 12, 2010 7:52 AM EDT via mobile reply actions
Congrats J.P. and Company. Great blog.
In Lou We Trust: Now More productive than a New Jersey Devils Powerplay
"Pfft, Wii’s where it’s at. *Swings toy plastic racquet, separates shoulder"- RudyKelly
by Kevin Sellathamby on Jul 12, 2010 7:56 AM EDT reply actions
Five Years Ago...
john carlson was still dreaming about getting his drivers license…
ovie had all his teeth…
BB had yet to start his hershey coaching career…
and the caps were fresh off the 2005 draft with their two new first round picks…a couple of big defensman who would no doubt anchor the blueline for years to come…
Just trying to capture the spirit of the thing...
5 years ago I was still in college. Oof.
I never thought then, in the midst of how terrible the team was then, it would become the absolute phenomenon its become now. I started to believe again the day Ovi signed that extension.
I never travel far....without a little Big Star...
Ron and Fez 11 to 3
by YvonLabresMoustache on Jul 12, 2010 8:46 AM EDT up reply actions
Happy Birthday Japers’.
Five years ago I had not yet discovered the joys of hockey, and we were living in the Devils/Rangers realm.
Watching my son learn to play as a Mite and then going to my first Caps games that spring of 2008 as they made their remarkable run to make playoffs has turned me into a rabid lover of Red.
One and half years ago I discovered Japers’ as I desperately searched for worthier information and analysis on the Caps than what one could usually find online.
Today I am a happy happy person as I rush about getting us ready to dash off to the development camp, and then I will return to Japers’ to share impressions with other rabid lovers of Red.
Thanks Japers’!
"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."
Congrats JP and all
Thanks for providing a hockey home away from home and a diversion when work is slow.
5 years ago, I was still my thirties. Sheesh.
Keep up the great work as always,
RB in Toronto
A clear conscience is usually the sign of a bad memory
Congrats JP and crew. 5 years of blogging like this is a hell of a long time.
"Game's the same. Just got more fierce."
For those who are not in attendance...
What does everyone want to know about the D Camp? I will create many FanShots.
4th Floor, is next, swimvare, undervare, Eric Fehr...
Who’s the next undrafted free agent who stands out for his effort and ability? Two years ago it was Hauswirth, last year it was Bruess
Atta dinnin stick a who!
by Gould Old Days on Jul 12, 2010 9:26 AM EDT up reply actions
I’ll be there on Wednesday, I’ll have to give you guys my comments too. Interested in seeing Kuznetsov in person, he was one of the few Russian forwards that I thought played well at the WJC’s.
"Game's the same. Just got more fierce."
You’re take was pretty much what made me feel positive about that pick. I was neutral at first but hearing that he was good in the WJC (and then learning he dominated the U-18) made me feel a lot better.
Sometimes you need a criminal lawyer, sometimes you need a criminal lawyer.
I got a lot riding on this kid; you barely take half the stuff I say seriously anyways, if he busts out I’ll never get a word in edgewise!
"Game's the same. Just got more fierce."
Might be better for discussion to just post your thoughts in here – or at least post links to them in here, since the sidebars don’t update without refreshing and a lot of folks just keep this post open all day.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
Well here’s my initial thoughts after watching an hour of this morning’s session: Joe Finley better make his living in hockey as a fighter since he may be the worst skater I’ve ever seen at a Caps camp. And Anton Gustafsson isn’t a much better skater which is kind of amazing considering how great a skater his dad was. Worse, he appeared totally disinterested out there. Granted, all of this is based on just 60 minutes, but both those #1s have a long way to go before/if ever they pan out.
Joe Finley better make his living in hockey as a fighter since he may be the worst skater I’ve ever seen at a Caps camp.
Worse than Mestry and Casavant? Ouch.
Mestery was pretty bad. It was almost painful to watch him.
I never travel far....without a little Big Star...
Ron and Fez 11 to 3
by YvonLabresMoustache on Jul 12, 2010 11:29 AM EDT up reply actions
But he hits people. And that’s all that matters.
I never travel far....without a little Big Star...
Ron and Fez 11 to 3
by YvonLabresMoustache on Jul 12, 2010 11:28 AM EDT up reply actions
How much stuff has Finley thrown out into the parking lot?
Washington Capitals 2009-10 = Quebec Nordiques 1994-95
--- D'ohboy
by MikeL-Pivonka on Jul 12, 2010 12:31 PM EDT up reply actions
Coach Boudreau's...
Off-season conditioning program has his a snag on a personal level.
4th Floor, is next, swimvare, undervare, Eric Fehr...
Saw BB at a few Hershey games during the playoffs. Noticed his clothes are getting tight, especially his khakis. He needs to go shopping. Tight clothes just make you look larger in my opinion. Of course going to Hershey Park when I was up there for the games confirmed that thought. I used to feel a little self conscious of gaining a little weight but not after walking after Hershey Park a few times.
by vtcapsfan99 on Jul 12, 2010 10:03 AM EDT up reply actions
Congrats to JP!
For your anniversity you should get a radio show. Done that? Nevermind.
The rest of you quit complaining re getting old. It beats the alternative. I’m 57 & a lifelong Caps & Red Sox fan, so (a) there’s sports fandom life after 40 & (b) always hope for even the most seemingly hopeless franchises (except of course the Cubs).
by LangwayWasTheKing on Jul 12, 2010 9:41 AM EDT reply actions
Happy Anniversary
Japers…you’re my primary source for Caps news. Please, please, please..keep up the good work.
by sgallant on Jul 12, 2010 9:57 AM EDT reply actions 1 recs
Thanks, everyone, for the kind words and blogiversary wishes. It goes without saying that without you, there’s no us, so heartfelt appreciation again.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
by J.P. on Jul 12, 2010 9:59 AM EDT reply actions 1 recs
Not for nothing, it’s also the 40th anny of Doc Ellis’ LSD no-hitter.
(Best youtube on the internet Watch these 4 and a half minutes and you’ll be having a better Monday)
"Game's the same. Just got more fierce."
by Hooks Orpik on Jul 12, 2010 10:58 AM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
You’re right! SI tweeted it earlier and it’s been on my mind, looks like their botch that I passed on.
"Game's the same. Just got more fierce."
by Hooks Orpik on Jul 12, 2010 11:08 AM EDT up reply actions
I finally stopped following CI and registered here- its a bit of a mess over there…and I’ll follow Jschon anywhere
by NJNJ on Jul 12, 2010 10:00 AM EDT reply actions 2 recs
“[B]it of a mess” is putting it kindly, but welcome.
by DrinkingPartner on Jul 12, 2010 10:06 AM EDT up reply actions
Hey BP, aren’t you forgetting something?
Atta dinnin stick a who!
by Gould Old Days on Jul 12, 2010 10:07 AM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
Wow, it’s been so long since we’ve had to get anybody on that!
by DrinkingPartner on Jul 12, 2010 10:22 AM EDT up reply actions
Anyone here have a list of the twitters we should be following?
by DrinkingPartner on Jul 12, 2010 10:07 AM EDT reply actions
I never travel far....without a little Big Star...
Ron and Fez 11 to 3
by YvonLabresMoustache on Jul 12, 2010 10:09 AM EDT up reply actions
I think he meant the folks tweeting from Development Camp today.
"It's always good to have vikings."
Proud member of the Oxford dictionary police.
Here’s my list that served me pretty well during july 1st’s hoopla. (place at before username)
Darren and Bob McK are top for league coverage:
capgeek, mirtle,ericfehr16, greenlife52, VogsCaps, TarikElBashir, DarrenDreger, TSNBobMcKenzie,JapersRink, Nateewell
by MetalCap on Jul 12, 2010 10:12 AM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
Just follow here:
http://twitter.com/home#/list/washcaps/dev-camp
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
Finley
Not as slow as I thought. Decent so far with the puck. Surprisingly nimble. Future 4th line W potential.
4th Floor, is next, swimvare, undervare, Eric Fehr...
Has the Finley-at-wing experiment continued? Or are they moving him back to D?
"Ovechkin, what is good in life?"
"To crush your enemies. To see them driven before you. And to hear the lamentations of their captain."
He just plowed Woods into the boards, and asked him if was ok afterwards.
4th Floor, is next, swimvare, undervare, Eric Fehr...
Aaaaaaaaah… smoke a cigarette. Finally we got a D that will hit!
Sometimes you need a criminal lawyer, sometimes you need a criminal lawyer.
Kinda soft though asking if the guy’s OK afterwards though…That’s OK, you can learn him through that.
"Game's the same. Just got more fierce."
by Hooks Orpik on Jul 12, 2010 10:23 AM EDT up reply actions
True story. This ain’t the NCAA no more, kid.
Sometimes you need a criminal lawyer, sometimes you need a criminal lawyer.
..............
Needs to take a page from the Book of Andrew Gordon:
http://ravingsofarinkrebel.blogspot.com/2010/05/why-does-he-do-that-andrew-gordon.html
I’ve noticed that after he hits an opponent, he will often pause and pat the fallen opponent on the head before skating away. Take a look at the video above from the Bears playoff series with the Bridgeport Sound Tigers. At around 1:02, Gordon lays a nice hit on Sound Tiger Jesse Joensuu. Joensuu is is knocked to the ice from the force of the hit, while Gordon is able to stay on his skates. As he starts to skate away, he pats the fallen Joensuu on the helmet. Joensuu, clearly ticked off at this gesture, grapples with his stick to try to maybe hook Gordon as he skates off.
I’m friends with Andrew Gordon on Facebook, and he’s very active with fan outreach on there. So I asked him what was up with the love pats. He answered my question later that day.
He said he doesn’t do it every time, but sometimes he does if an opponent is going to hit him and he ends up taking the opponent down on the hit instead. “Tipping their helmet after you’ve already embarrassed them just rattles them a little more,” he says. He does it to build up rivalries with guys on other teams, so that when he lines up for a faceoff, he knows who is going to play him physical, and thus he’s able to see the hits coming in advance.
Related:
by EmilyB on Jul 12, 2010 10:35 AM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
True, but there are still mascots for him to go after… ;-)
Washington Capitals 2009-10 = Quebec Nordiques 1994-95
--- D'ohboy
by MikeL-Pivonka on Jul 12, 2010 12:33 PM EDT up reply actions
Finley just dropped Kuznetsov in front of crease with one shoulder.
4th Floor, is next, swimvare, undervare, Eric Fehr...
I can’t wait for the OFB article on it.
Sometimes you need a criminal lawyer, sometimes you need a criminal lawyer.
With cell phone camera zapruder film break down.
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 Jul 12, 2010 10:30 AM EDT up reply actions
You might not be able to read it over their incessant fapping.
Look at this signature line. Notice the lack of spelling errors and self-whoring?
by Bald Pollack on Jul 12, 2010 10:34 AM EDT up reply actions
Make sure you wear surgical gloves
I never travel far....without a little Big Star...
Ron and Fez 11 to 3
by YvonLabresMoustache on Jul 12, 2010 10:36 AM EDT up reply actions
Finley just took out Delly, laughed, stop skating and Delly got the rebound. Woods got in Finleys ear.
4th Floor, is next, swimvare, undervare, Eric Fehr...
Woods is just being too harsh on him is all. He doesn’t understand how we need guys to hit like that.
I never travel far....without a little Big Star...
Ron and Fez 11 to 3
by YvonLabresMoustache on Jul 12, 2010 10:54 AM EDT up reply actions
Finley Improved
IMO…Finley looks like he has worked on his skating A LOT since last year…big improvement. Seems much more comfortable overall.
by Direction 87 on Jul 12, 2010 1:54 PM EDT up reply actions
Kuznetsov
You can see the skill, nifty passes, showing off slightly.
4th Floor, is next, swimvare, undervare, Eric Fehr...
I haven’t seen if he was wearing tight acid-washed jeans or not.
4th Floor, is next, swimvare, undervare, Eric Fehr...
that’s Varly who wears the tight acid wash jeans. Semin just wears the ripped jeans like Ovie. Gotta keep your Russian fashions straight:)
by vtcapsfan99 on Jul 12, 2010 10:20 AM EDT up reply actions
Eakin
Wise beyond his years. Hershey will love him next year. Very polished, just small.
4th Floor, is next, swimvare, undervare, Eric Fehr...
Orlov
Is a go after the body defender, not the puck poker. He’s done it a few times already.
4th Floor, is next, swimvare, undervare, Eric Fehr...
Is he effective at it? Or does he seem to be missing the body?
"It's good to be compared to great players, great teams. But we're not Oilers, we're Capitals."
~Alex Ovechkin
Gustafsson
Not looking good so far. Tripping over his own skates.
4th Floor, is next, swimvare, undervare, Eric Fehr...
Happy 5th anniversary
This is my favorite vintage blog post. For self serving reasons of course. I think J.P. was the first to post anything about this.
http://japersrink.blogspot.com/2008/06/ovechkin-wins-hart.html
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 Jul 12, 2010 10:23 AM EDT reply actions 2 recs
Further proof that without our readers, we’re nothing.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
Srimmage time.
Looks like this batch of defenders play the body. Orlov and Finley have been throwing their weight around. Hard to judge the forwards abilities at the moment. Scrimmage should open things up.
4th Floor, is next, swimvare, undervare, Eric Fehr...
Looks like saner heads prevail at the NCAA: http://sports.espn.go.com/ncaa/news/story?id=5363743
Anyone know what they were planning to do? I presume by penalty they do not mean minor penalty, that would be silly. I presume they just meant icing will apply at all times (which is just stupid).
↑ ↑ ↓ ↓ ← → ← → b a (select) start
Btw, great stuff today JSchon – invaluable to us working stiffs.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
by J.P. on Jul 12, 2010 10:44 AM EDT reply actions 6 recs
Could not agree more. It’s invaluable for the unemployed stiffs, too.
Sometimes you need a criminal lawyer, sometimes you need a criminal lawyer.
And for those of us out of towners as well.
"You ever use smelling salts, every time you type a bad blog?" Brooks Laich
by Carl Putnam on Jul 12, 2010 11:55 AM EDT up reply actions
Funny link from Puck Daddy from over the weekend, featuring the “10 craziest moments” in the NHL’s history. Many of which, unsurprisingly involve the Flyers.
Because now I can justify browsing and commenting during the work day with the argument that I am promoting my business.
I still remember watching the Stefan thing live on TV. One of the most unbelieveable things ive ever seen in sports. Half of what made it great was Ferraro ripping him.
I never travel far....without a little Big Star...
Ron and Fez 11 to 3
by YvonLabresMoustache on Jul 12, 2010 11:06 AM EDT up reply actions
I think it was on the NHL Network because I was watching it, too (I have no reason why I’d be watching a mid-season Oilers/Stars game). It took me a while to realize that the Stefan who missed the open net was the same Stefan drafted first overall.
I still had NHL Center Ice at the time…was really nothing else on TV and I was just watching for the heck of it. I came thisclose to flipping the channel when Stefan was breaking in all alone on the empty net but I stuck with it.
I never travel far....without a little Big Star...
Ron and Fez 11 to 3
by YvonLabresMoustache on Jul 12, 2010 11:59 AM EDT up reply actions
Somewhere Kugreshev just threw up.
Look at this signature line. Notice the lack of spelling errors and self-whoring?
by Bald Pollack on Jul 12, 2010 11:31 AM EDT up reply actions
We were just talking about that. Visa issues? Right.
4th Floor, is next, swimvare, undervare, Eric Fehr...
I just meant from sympathy suicide pains.
Look at this signature line. Notice the lack of spelling errors and self-whoring?
by Bald Pollack on Jul 12, 2010 11:39 AM EDT up reply actions
Practice over...
Hauswurth, Della, Kuznetsov, Orlov, Flemming, Eakin and DeSimone playing some games with Dunn in net. Kuznetsov and Orlov are talking to Dunn in Russian.
4th Floor, is next, swimvare, undervare, Eric Fehr...
“Stop scoring on yourself. Stop scoring on yourself.”
by DrinkingPartner on Jul 12, 2010 11:51 AM EDT up reply actions
So who are the standouts so far? Good and bad?
Just to sum up.
by DrinkingPartner on Jul 12, 2010 12:08 PM EDT reply actions
And who won the DP “Golden Trash Can” Award?
Sometimes you need a criminal lawyer, sometimes you need a criminal lawyer.
You down for any local pickups anytime soon, btw?
by DrinkingPartner on Jul 12, 2010 12:15 PM EDT up reply actions
Maybe. I’m not going to push for it because I’ve got too much other shit going on. I was going to wait for a groundswell of support but it hasn’t happened yet.
Sometimes you need a criminal lawyer, sometimes you need a criminal lawyer.
I’d love to make one, but Summer weekends are incredibly tough to keep open
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 Jul 12, 2010 12:43 PM EDT up reply actions
Coaches have Eakin as the best by far, per Tarik’s tweet.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
by J.P. on Jul 12, 2010 12:31 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
No shock from that group. He’s the most experienced and is an excellent skater. You’d expect him to stand out.
The main event for today is Mackan.
Sometimes you need a criminal lawyer, sometimes you need a criminal lawyer.
Kuznetsov was apparently a nice appetizer, too.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
Kuz Pretty Slick
Very patient with the puck and I think he’s the youngest at camp
by Direction 87 on Jul 12, 2010 2:01 PM EDT up reply actions
If you are heading to Dev Camp
You can take a print out of one of these. I hope to be there tomorrow. I will pass couple out if I have the ink.
Print out here: PDF
by Brnny on Jul 12, 2010 12:40 PM EDT reply actions 1 recs
ok, here’s my summary. Apologies, I didn’t take the camera (I think I saw cobracga there, so there should be some up later), and then I ran into some friends. In short, I did not take notes as I intended to! I did get a chance to briefly say hello to Ovechwin and WhiterMage.
There were a fair number of non-roster invitees that I have nothing on. I kept going “Who?”
Eakin, of course, looked very good.
Lots of people falling down. A couple of what we dubbed “Mike Green moments.” Skating along, nobody nearby and all the sudden the guy is on the ice. And some of these guys were seriously S-L-O-W.
Finley didn’t put forth any apparent effort in suicide drills.
Holtby and Dunn played “rock, paper, scissors” to see who would have to take the net after practice for the guys to shoot on.
Not knowing 99% of these guys, it was a little difficult for me to get a handle on who was who (despite the names on jerseys) and how everyone was doing. by Friday, I’m hoping this is easier.
Della Rovere was all over the place, per usual. In a good way.
#savethekittens!
Donation info for SAVES FOR KIDS 2010!! Make a difference.
thanks :)
if anyone has questions, I’ll do my best to answer them. I’m not covering this afternoon because I’m trying to get resumes sent out.
#savethekittens!
Donation info for SAVES FOR KIDS 2010!! Make a difference.
I’m going all week! This is probably the only session I’ll miss.
#savethekittens!
Donation info for SAVES FOR KIDS 2010!! Make a difference.
Dev Camp - Impressions of impressions.
Sounds even worse for Finley than I’d anticipated. He’s a lot older and more mature than the bulk of the guys there. If he’s not dominating – and reading between the lines of JSchon’s posts, it sounds like he’s only holding his own, and b.orr is even more critical – he’s going to get lit up in the A, let alone the big leagues.
Baby Gus sounds like a complete disaster. So much for taking the opportunity to show he wants it more. If anything, he sounds like he wants it less.
Kuznetsov – does not sound like he has put up any red flags, i.e., can’t keep up with the skating, doesn’t compete, etc. The absence of bad news is about as good as you could hope for at this point.
Keeping my fingers crossed for MarJo.
"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
Finley def. did not dominate. He wasn’t falling liek some of the other d-men, but he certainly wasn’t causing me to go “WOW! He’s really picked up his game.” And you’re right, at his age and experience level, he should be a stand-out.
Baby Gus….I really didn’t notice him. He was mostly at the other end of the ice from me and I made the mistake of trying to watch everyone instead of focusing on a few key guys (lesson learned for tomorrow).
Kuznetsov was about what I expected: a good prospect, but didn’t stand out. A lot of these guys are older than him. He’s a little small. But he’s 18.
#savethekittens!
Donation info for SAVES FOR KIDS 2010!! Make a difference.
If you get a chance to focus on Kuznetsov, I’d be interested in seeing if he’s (hopefully) faster than the other guys, or at least able to keep up. Of the guys there, at most a couple of them will have legitimate NHL speed at present (I’d go with Eakin and MarJo as candidates, off the top of my head) so it would be interesting to see how Kuznetsov compares with them directly.
As you say, he’s only 18, so with power skating work and added strength, he can add some zip. But the base level should hopefully be pretty good.
"You want to start being part of the Rink? Fine, but more’s expected of you than John/Jane Cap Fan. Carry the cause of informed discussion to the unwashed masses and don’t crap in the yards of other SBN sites if you decide to go over there. They’re passionate about their teams too, no need to troll elsewhere and/or be a sore winner." --BP
I’ll certainly keep an eye on Kuznetsov tomorrow. Orlov is in his group as well. Maybe I’ll make tomorrow “Russian Day”
#savethekittens!
Donation info for SAVES FOR KIDS 2010!! Make a difference.
Like I said above, if Finley’s going to make it in the AHL it will have to be as a tough guy and God knows there’s still a place for those guys in the A. One drill that I saw had the defenseman trying to cover a winger coming in to the zone and Finley was at least five strides behind by the time the guy hit the top of the circle. Little Gus just doesn’t seem to have that fire in him. I know Bengt never really did either, but he was so good at so many things that it really didn’t matter. Anton just seems tentative and almost uninterested and his talent level just doesn’t seem that high. At least in what I saw. I would really love to be wrong on him, though.
Baby Gus. Poor kid. He really does give off that “I don’t really want to be playing hockey” vibe sometimes. It has to be a thousand times worse when it’s your father’s old team that you’re skating for.
#savethekittens!
Donation info for SAVES FOR KIDS 2010!! Make a difference.
Poor kid? Poor us – first round picks don’t grow on trees.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
that one is on McPhee. Even if AnGus looked semi-interested in playing hockey, there’s no way the kid should have been a first rounder.
#savethekittens!
Donation info for SAVES FOR KIDS 2010!! Make a difference.
Well most projections had him in the top 45 so it wasn’t a huge reach. If not for his injuries he may have been higher; or he may have shown his lack of fire and gone lower. GMGM definitely reached and wasted a 2 to move up for him.
Sometimes you need a criminal lawyer, sometimes you need a criminal lawyer.
Don't worry everybody
He coulda drafted this guy
It almost looks like Fehr/Getzlaf all over again…of course there is no doubt about F-16’s heart and desire.
Not really. Fehr is actually an NHL player. Angus won’t be. The Fehr-Getzlaf stuff is vastly overblown.
Sometimes you need a criminal lawyer, sometimes you need a criminal lawyer.
I don’t know is it’s been vastly overblown. Maybe somewhat overblown. I love E-dawg, but he’s not Getzlaf, and it’s not even close.
About Fehr/Angus…absolutely.
How would our 2C quandry look if Getzlaf were here…
What if the Caps had drafted Pavel Datsyuk!
Atta dinnin stick a who!
by Gould Old Days on Jul 12, 2010 4:02 PM EDT up reply actions
We might not have drafted Ovi if we’d had Pavel Datsyuk!
Also, if the Caps had drafted Martin Brodeur instead of John Slaney, they’d have won a cup!
I can play this game all day.
Atta dinnin stick a who!
by Gould Old Days on Jul 12, 2010 4:11 PM EDT up reply actions
E.Fehr averaged more points per game per minute played than Getzlaf and didn’t have Perry and Ryan on either side of him.
4th Floor, is next, swimvare, undervare, Eric Fehr...
See what happens when I mess with the pro’s? I get smoked.
4th Floor, is next, swimvare, undervare, Eric Fehr...
I throw out some really dumb stats to promote my boy.
4th Floor, is next, swimvare, undervare, Eric Fehr...
I think its kinda unfair to compare the two because of the injuries Fehr has had to endure.
You could on the flip-side say that Getzlaf and his Ducks have underachieved recently.
4th Floor, is next, swimvare, undervare, Eric Fehr...
And Fehr is an NHL player. It’s not Finley or Pokulok. Fehr was hobbled by injuries and has overcome them to be the Caps’ third leading goal scorer in the playoffs. He contributes, and will continue to contribute. It’s not the biggest of all time busts.
And when we look at the first round bargains we’ve gotten (and corresponding busts), getting hung up on Fehr is silly. I say we come out on top with Green/Schultz/Carlson.
Sometimes you need a criminal lawyer, sometimes you need a criminal lawyer.
Serioulsy bro, I’m not hung up on Fehr/Getzlaf it was merely a comparison. And although you guys are going to poo-poo it like I’m crazy it’s similar. Not the same, but similar. It’s just 2 isolated cases and yes, you can do this with every draft all day.
I agree with this. When you’re picking kids in the first round, success is becoming an NHL regular. If you forego a chance at an all star and get a guy instead who plays regular NHL minutes, there’s not much you can complain about. Just too many unknowns to deal with.
Now, picking Finley….
"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
Or taking McIlrath over Fowler…
Sometimes you need a criminal lawyer, sometimes you need a criminal lawyer.
McIlrath?
"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
10th overall this year to the Rags.
Sometimes you need a criminal lawyer, sometimes you need a criminal lawyer.
In fairness to Jessiman, he put up huge point totals his freshman year at Dartmouth. He then got injured his sophomore year, and his point totals kept declining from there on out. There’s no way he should have gone as high as he did (I wouldn’t really count on Dartmouth’s hockey programs to develop top notch players) but it’s a shame he’s probably not going to make it in the NHL at this point.
But unless you mean “off-the-wall-pick by Glen Sather” then, yeah, here’s to hoping McIlrath is the next Hugh Jessiman.
"Ovechkin, what is good in life?"
"To crush your enemies. To see them driven before you. And to hear the lamentations of their captain."
Why we acquired him I’ll never know.
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by Chris Burton on Jul 12, 2010 4:38 PM EDT up reply actions
Ahh. I missed the draft entirely.
Never heard of the guy, but I have heard of Fowler, if that’s any indication.
"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
About the same because Getzlaf would be the number one and Backstrom would be plying his trade elsewhere because the Caps weren’t bad enough to finish low enough to draft him?
Don’t forget, we gave up a pick to move up two slots and grab him—and that pick turned out to be Patrice Cormier, who h as some value…
by bilspacecadet on Jul 12, 2010 5:12 PM EDT up reply actions
Eakin – Already a pro IMO. What I mean is not that he is ready to play in the NHL, but he looks like he can with some of things he is doing that none of other players are doing.
Kuznetsov – Looks pretty good to me. Solid skater, thinks fast, nifty passer and shows flashes of superior skill.
Orlov – This guy will be a Cap favorite for those Caps fans that miss a body checking defensemen. He can also get burned but I know I will like him.
Della-Rovere – Can’t judge him really, his role is that of a pitbull. He seemed pretty playful against same jersey guys.
Finley – Honestly, he may not be a great candidate to play 12 minutes as a defensemen, but I could see him playing 7 minutes as a winger, goon? Maybe. I do think he embarrassed himself and actually at times looked like he knew what he was doing.
Flemming – Looked to be in the best shape and was fast.
Dunn and Holtby – looked like practice goalies.
4th Floor, is next, swimvare, undervare, Eric Fehr...
What’s a practice goalie look like? The best most dedicated goalies usually look like mad men in practice. They battle for every puck and let in far less goals than predicted.
I hope that’s what you mean and they don’t look like shooter tutors.
I look to the future because that's where I'm going to spend the rest of my life.
What’s a practice goalie look like?
In Holtby’s case, like a guy who looked overmatched against the shooters. Several long shots made it past him without him even touching them. I’m not going to worry about Holtby, though, since he’s been so good in the AHL. Still, if I didn’t see the name on his jersey, i would have thought he was just a walk-on.
Eakin looked like he was determined to make the Caps roster this season! very determined guy, gotta love that. Shame he’ll get sent back to Swift Current.
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Dunno — I hear the Caps need a 2C…
Atta dinnin stick a who!
by Gould Old Days on Jul 12, 2010 1:54 PM EDT up reply actions
HIs determination is fabulous, along with his speed and maturity, but I believe another year in Swift Current would be the best thing for everyone involved. He’s still young and hasn’t had a full professional season yet, has he? Hopefully he’s accepted that as a real possibility.
by CapitalCentre on Jul 12, 2010 1:56 PM EDT up reply actions
no, he just had that playoff cup o’ coffee with Hershey this season. I do think this kid is going to be a real 3rd round steal, though. Good bit of natural talent, insanely hard worker. I’m very excited to see how he develops.
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The Jokes Just Write Themselves
Yerdon’s a little upset that Bettman gets paid so much to be mediocre at his job. Me, I’m more upset that Glen Sather is setting the Commissioner’s salary.
"Ovechkin, what is good in life?"
"To crush your enemies. To see them driven before you. And to hear the lamentations of their captain."
almost as funny is the list of guys who make more than Bettman. On what planet is Scott Gomez worth that much money?! Talk about someone who is pretty mediocre at his job.
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Blackhawks match offer sheet for Hjalmarsson.
Pierre LeBrun tweets that Patrick Sharp may be in play now.
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He also said they’re shopping Brian Campbell. I lol’d.
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by Chris Burton on Jul 12, 2010 3:09 PM EDT up reply actions
That was pretty much my reaction.
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by Chris Burton on Jul 12, 2010 3:13 PM EDT up reply actions
they can shop him all they want, but I think Sather has used up in summer allotment of “incredibly stupid moves”
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He’s got an NTC too, so that would probably rule out the Islanders.
"HISTORY DOESN’T MATTER!!! .... Who cares if it’s never been done? We aren’t those teams who failed before. We are in control of our own destiny, and we will make it happen our own way.." - A Gordon, June 2010
Um, Glenn, it’s about our kid Campbell…
"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
Maybe CHI is hoping that the salary cap increases again.
4th Floor, is next, swimvare, undervare, Eric Fehr...
Can they get the players to vote on the escalator again? Weekly?
Sometimes you need a criminal lawyer, sometimes you need a criminal lawyer.
daily? Maybe hourly, even?
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Sounding like he’s definitely being shopped. They have – get this – 9 forwards, 5 defensemen under contract with $113,000 in cap room.
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by Chris Burton on Jul 12, 2010 3:13 PM EDT up reply actions
I sure hope Hut enjoys his new life in Rockford, IL.
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weird
The 113,000 is supposed to be italicized.
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by Chris Burton on Jul 12, 2010 3:14 PM EDT up reply actions
We can trade them Flash and Beagle for Sharp, and they will still have enough for 2 more really cheap guys.
4th Floor, is next, swimvare, undervare, Eric Fehr...
If Flash gets $2+ million, that’s not much salary savings for them and he’d be on a short contract close to UFA. That doesn’t do much for Chicago.
"Game's the same. Just got more fierce."
He had 60 points in 72 games. The softest 60 points EVER.
4th Floor, is next, swimvare, undervare, Eric Fehr...
23-35-58 in 82 games. That got Zherdev 3.9. Now, Flash won’t get that much, but he won’t get that much lower either. FTR, the Zherdev award is not precedent that the arbitrator can use, but it shows where their value scale is.
Flash went 23-28-51 in 69 games.
Sometimes you need a criminal lawyer, sometimes you need a criminal lawyer.
haha
via @ryanclassic
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by Chris Burton on Jul 12, 2010 3:16 PM EDT up reply actions
Okay, quick, someone find out what other teams need a center – I’m going to go brainwash them into thinking they do not, in fact, have this need. I cannot explain how happy I’d be if Sharp was a Cap.
He’s just really really handsome good at hockey.
Pretty sure the Wild were interested in Sharp.
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by Chris Burton on Jul 12, 2010 3:24 PM EDT up reply actions
I hate to interrupt your back flips, but Chicago hasn’t even traded with a playoff team yet in their salary shedding, and the deals they’ve gotten have been pretty good with young talent.
It’s out of conference, so not the biggest deal in the world, but all things considered, I think they’re gonna keep steering players to the Atlanta’s of the NHL instead of a potential fellow contender.
"Game's the same. Just got more fierce."
Then they’re idiots. They should be making a trade with the team that gives them the best return, regardless of who that team is (possibly barring extreme circumstances, like dealing with the Red Wings)
I agree, the #1 most important factor is, and should be, the return.
But they will surely be receiving a lot of offers, and if the value is close— I think they’re going to defer to an out-of-conference also ran rather than the team that just won the Presidents Cup and returns most their important players.
The fact that they’ve divvied Buff, Ladd, Versteeg off to Eastern Conference non-contenders supports my theory.
"Game's the same. Just got more fierce."
well, they need to deal players to teams w/ cap space, which tend to be non-contenders. those trades were made prior to the july 1 FA date when teams had some more cap space to burn then they do now.
however, the caps do have some cap space and lots of young, inexpensive talent that may never make it up to the big club given who’s on the current roster.
should we send their GM a map to Kettler for this week?
Just trying to capture the spirit of the thing...
by dcsportsfan1 on Jul 12, 2010 3:49 PM EDT up reply actions
That doesn’t make total sense though — Toronto’s had more money than almost anyone committed for 2010-11 before, during and after July 1.
Is Stalberg really that good of a prospect that Chicago just had to send Versteeg there? Personally I don’t think so, I think the fact that Toronto’s still a building team factored in.
"Game's the same. Just got more fierce."
i guess you dont know if he’s that good a prospect unless you know what else was being offered for versteeg. could have been the best offer they got. i just dont know how much less a team will take just to make sure they arent shipping someone to a contending team. particularly chicago who everyone knows is over a barrell and needs to move guys.
if i’m chicago i’m thinking my number one job is to get as much value for my guys as possible inorder to get under the cap and sign an NHL goalie. i can see not trading within division or conference, but why be concerned about trading to a team who can only hurt you if you meet in the cup finals?
Just trying to capture the spirit of the thing...
by dcsportsfan1 on Jul 12, 2010 4:16 PM EDT up reply actions
Why are you coming in here bringing logic, you party pooper?? Get out!
…kidding ;) But seriously, Atlanta’s stacked at center now. Not with talent, of course, but with bodies. Same with the Islanders. They probably wouldn’t trade to Colorado but even they’ve got a ton of centers right now. If they insist on sticking to that "trade only to non-contenders in the East), the only team I could see them dealing with would be Tampa, because they have cap space, eleventy billion D and not a lot of guys at center.
Plus I think we have more to offer them in return. It’ll be interesting to see what happens.
But seriously, Atlanta’s stacked at center now. Not with talent, of course, but with bodies. Same with the Islanders.
Of course, Sharp can play all three forward positions…
What do you see us having in return that they would covet and we would be willing to give up? The way I see it, they need roster players at or near league minimum. We don’t really have ANY of those that are proven. And guys like Carlson and Varly, who at least have SOME experience, are considered “untouchable” by many/most caps fans. I personally don’t see who we would be willing to part with that they would much want.
Yeah that’s the point. They need entry level forwards who are NHL caliber. I don’t see the Caps in a hurry to give what they have there up.
"Game's the same. Just got more fierce."
I don’t see any combination of Matthieu Perreault, Andrew Gordon, Chris Bourque, Steve Pinnizzotto or Keith Aucoin fitting the bill over there.
Atta dinnin stick a who!
by Gould Old Days on Jul 12, 2010 3:46 PM EDT up reply actions
I think they’re more looking for a Jamie Benn type. None of the guys I listed have done enough in the NHL.
In other words, I was saying they wouldn’t go for it — I wasn’t expressing any opinion on how well any of those forwards would actually do over there.
Atta dinnin stick a who!
by Gould Old Days on Jul 12, 2010 3:48 PM EDT up reply actions
Because they’re looking for young players that can play NHL roles on a contending NHL team and possibly be impact players too. Outside of possibly Perreault, none on that list will do so for Washington this year.
"Game's the same. Just got more fierce."
Granted, but if Sharp’s on the table, it’s no stretch to assume Chicago will let a number of teams know about it, and it’s less of a stretch to believe have a bunch of offers to choose from…
…Including their former GM down in Florida who is still fairly beloved in that front office.
If it’s about the same value, do you think they’re going to flip him to a team like NYI or Florida or to last year’s President Trophy winners?
"Game's the same. Just got more fierce."
…Including their former GM down in Florida who is still fairly beloved in that front office.
The guy who was fired for getting them in to the cap mess they’re in?
If it’s about the same value, do you think they’re going to flip him to a team like NYI or Florida or to last year’s President Trophy winners?
All else being equal, the weaker team. But I doubt you get in a realistic “all else is equal” situation.
by David Getz on Jul 12, 2010 4:00 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
All else being equal, the weaker team. But I doubt you get in a realistic "all else is equal" situation.
I think the value that will get submitted will be close though. If a team like NYI/FLA gives Chicago something they can live with, I think they take it and not look back.
Unless Washington is going to really blow their socks off (and sorry Becca, M. Perreault + a marginal player isn’t it) then I don’t think there’s much motivation to move Sharp.
"Game's the same. Just got more fierce."
The Caps have three cheap goalies, a bunch of Fs that project to be top 6, and they could throw in a first. I don’t know why everyone is saying CHI needs cheap roster players, given that they haven’t taken many back in their trades to date. A first is just as good, if not better. They can fill out the roster with bargain basement guys and use the plethora of picks they have to trade for better players if they become available.
Sometimes you need a criminal lawyer, sometimes you need a criminal lawyer.
A cheap goalie is really ALL I see the caps being willing/able to offer that Chi might have much interest in. A 1st from pretty much any other team is gonna be better than a 1st from Washington, so we lose the comparables battle there. Perrault? Maybe, but he’s totally unproven and if Chi trades Sharp they are down to just 8 F under contract…they need ~5 more, while still leaving a couple on the farm that can be called up for injuries. Unless the Caps are willing to part with guys named Varly, Neuvirth (maybe), Johannson, Alzner, or Carlson, I don’t think we can put a better offer out there than many other, more “attractive” trade partners.
The problem is, CHI needs good young guys who are on early contracts. Anyone who is going to expect to get paid in 1-2 years will be no good for them, which rules out them demanding guys like Alzner or Varly. Someone like Johannson might be within the realm of their asking, but I’d suspect that Holtby would definitely be going the other way.
↑ ↑ ↓ ↓ ← → ← → b a (select) start
If a team like NYI/FLA gives Chicago something they can live with, I think they take it and not look back.
In that case, we’re back to them being idiots.
If getting an acceptable return makes them idiots, then I guess so.
"Game's the same. Just got more fierce."
by Hooks Orpik on Jul 12, 2010 8:05 PM EDT via mobile up reply actions
Tallon might be loved as a person by Chicago’s front office people. The Bowmans excepted, of course.
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The guy who was fired for getting them in to the cap mess they’re in?
Yeah, you know the guy who forgot to mail his RFAs their QO’s in a timely manner. Whoopsie!
The only one that hurt on was really Versteeg, and perhaps Barker, who they also dealt away.
The contracts to Campbell and Huet were a lot more unforgivable than the result of the QO fiasco.
"Game's the same. Just got more fierce."
Right, don’t get me wrong, the Huet/Campbell signings were horrible. But they might have been able to keep more of the band together and try to unload a Huet contract or stash him in the minors if need be. (Which they could still do I guess.) But every penny counts in the Cap era, as CHI is now realizing in very harsh terms.
I do feel the need to point out that it’s been rumored that Tallon took the fall for someone else not getting those QOs out on time.
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You never know. The Caps have a ton of guys in Hershey and in DC who are at or near NHL-caliber, and who maybe wouldn’t crack the roster mainly because of the logjam at one position or another. Would it be worth giving up someone like Perreault for Sharp? I think so, and I love Matty P.
Hell, they can have Bourque as a throw-in!
I don’t see them parting with any of the really high-caliber guys in a trade like that, but I also don’t see Chicago asking for any of them. They may be "cheap" right now but they’ll need new deals very soon and it’s not like the Hawks’ cap problems go away next year.
Definitely worth giving up MP for Sharp if that’ll get it done, but I imagine they’ll be looking for more value. If GMGM has to throw in some picks and warm bodies in the B. Gordon/Sloan mold, do it.
My bottom line: any prospect, save Alzner, Carlson, Mackan, Varly, or Neuvirth, is fair game.
Capitals Insider has Macken Video!
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I love it! I can remember doing that exact drill as a kid. Hysterical that NHL teams use it.
Sometimes you need a criminal lawyer, sometimes you need a criminal lawyer.
I couldn’t quite catch the name of the guy who was quite literally draped over Macken’s back at some points. Determined little SOBs!
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Woah. JP just retweeted this but
Boudreau on Johansson “He skates better than Backstrom”
"It's good to be compared to great players, great teams. But we're not Oilers, we're Capitals."
~Alex Ovechkin
I have got to see this kid tomorrow.
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I think WhiterMage and Ovechwin are also going to be there
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Mackan skates really really well. I was sitting right in front of him for the Herbies. He had a very powerful stride, with efficient and very fluid turns. He was not nearly as wrecked as everyone else at the end of the drill, though a couple others were faster. He’s also a lot more solid through the core than I expected, and will be hard to knock off the puck. Color me cautiously optimistic.
Me too (cautiously optimistic). He was the most composed of all the players today too—IMO. He held onto the puck, was so fluid, and knew how to pace himself so he wasn’t dragging by the end of the session. I was also impressed by Galiev—thought he was fast and adept with the puck.
It seemed to be more of a mixed bag in the afternoon. Or perhaps Mackan was so good the contrast was greater, because I definitely thought a number of players looked good in the morning session.
"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 Jul 12, 2010 7:38 PM EDT up reply actions
That’s great to hear. I’m not shocked Mackan looked more composed; he should have. He’s played at a higher level than anyone other skater there (minus Eakin’s cup of coffee in the AHL) and he’s done it for 2 years already. He was a captain of the WJC team. He should be able to keep composed here. I’m sure we didn’t even see all he has because the competition wasn’t good enough to give an accurate reading.
Glad to hear about Galiev as well. He’s one of the guys I wanted to see a report on.
Sometimes you need a criminal lawyer, sometimes you need a criminal lawyer.
Galiev – Very fast, very aware of what’s going on all over the ice. Huge smile, the kind that makes you want to smile back.
He did have a great big sappy smile. I loved his acceleration and puck control too.
"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 Jul 12, 2010 9:15 PM EDT up reply actions
I knew he had played in the top men’s league but I didn’t realize he had done so for two seasons. I wasn’t sure about how ready he would be for making the roster much less a top spot. But after today I think he might be able to make the jump. He just seemed so mature and in command. Made me wish I had seen Carlson last year at the camp. I just remember reading how excited everyone was. We might get even luckier this time around. No Hershey time for Mackan.
"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 Jul 12, 2010 9:14 PM EDT up reply actions
Mackan played in the SEL before his draft year as well as last year. Pretty impressive for such a young guy. He won’t play in Hershey at all, regardless of what happens at this camp. He has an out-clause for the first year of his contract so if he doesn’t make the Caps he can go back to SEL. If he doesn’t make the team this year, I’d expect him to make it next year. I’ll be shocked and disappointed if he has to play 2011-12 in HER.
Sometimes you need a criminal lawyer, sometimes you need a criminal lawyer.
Dunno if I’d rule out Hershey, actually. His SEL team has been making its plans with the assumption he won’t be back and there may not be a regular roster spot for him. Now that he’s here, he might just decide to check out the A. (Plus Coach French is helping to run DevCamp and I’m sure they’ll get to chat a bit.) But it looks like the Caps are trying real hard to bring him on RIGHT NOW.
I am looking forward to the scrimmages to see if he still looks so in control. The way he turned his back to protect the puck, curved around it actually, reminded me a lot of Nicky. Maybe it’s something one learns when playing with the big boys. Have to say I really want to see him on the roster this season—really really really want him.
"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 Jul 12, 2010 9:54 PM EDT up reply actions
I can’t imagine he isn’t dominant in the scrimmage. He may or may not get the points but I fully expect it to be obvious that he’s the head of the class. He’s so far ahead on the development curve and has plenty of skill to boot.
Sometimes you need a criminal lawyer, sometimes you need a criminal lawyer.
JP tweet
Who will be the next Real American Hero John Carlson? RT @Sean_Leahy IIHF ’10 World Jr Championships sked out today. http://bit.ly/d5bqUp
Since its in the USA this year I’m hoping the tourney gets a little more press in this country.
"You ever use smelling salts, every time you type a bad blog?" Brooks Laich
It’ll be home games for Canada though. They need to stick it in LA, St. Louis, or (best of all), Dallas.
Sometimes you need a criminal lawyer, sometimes you need a criminal lawyer.
Nashville, and invite Hamibus to be master of ceremonies.
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Free beer at my house if you whoop him ;)
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by Chris Burton on Jul 12, 2010 4:39 PM EDT up reply actions
Not necessarily related, but Nashville is more ’n likely getting the ’13 or ’14 ASG. PARTY!!!!!1
On the Forecheck: preaching the Predators' gospel to the unwashed masses.
Twitter/Cycle Like the Sedins
by Chris Burton on Jul 12, 2010 4:43 PM EDT up reply actions
like I’ve said before, I had so much fun going to the associated fan stuff when the ASG was in Minnesota in 2004. Just a really enjoyable day in hockey heaven, not to be missed.
#savethekittens!
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Dream on, not happening. Wasn’t it in ND/MN a few years ago?
"It's always good to have vikings."
Proud member of the Oxford dictionary police.
Fargo. Because if I’m some kid from small town Russia, I’m just soooooooo excited to spend 20 hours on a plane to get to Fargo. I’d never want to come back to the US after that experience.
#savethekittens!
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If Semin thought Washington was dull and Varly said living in Hershey was depressing, just imagine what they would think of Fargo:)
Have you ever been to Fargo? It’s got some alien themed restaurant, and the Red River, which floods every spring, and some universities. It’s a much bigger city than Hershey, although it’s more isolated. But I bet they have some crazy hockey fans there.
yep, been to Fargo. Having lived in Duluth (briefly), I am obliged to talk about how boring and backward Fargo is. because Duluth is soooooo cosmopolitan.
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lovely movie. the city? eh.
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nope. I have the wrong plumbing to be Klosterman.
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Have you ever seen Klosterman’s plumbing?
by bilspacecadet on Jul 12, 2010 8:10 PM EDT up reply actions
never heard of it and I’m a little afraid to look it up:) The wood chipper thing doesn’t surprise me. Growing up in Minnesota, we had a wood stove and a wood splitter. Wood stoves were very common in Northern Minnesota.
I actually have somehow avoided seeing that movie in protest of how it mocked people from Minnesota/North Dakota, where I still lived when it came out. Although now that I haven’t lived there for 13 years, I would probably find it funny. I really notice the accent when I go back to visit. Guess that means I’ve picked up some weird east coast accent.
@ Caps being songs of the 90s
Flash is always humming Bittersweet Symphony by the Verve. Just in the back of his head, every game, playing like white noise as the infinite soundtrack to his career.
And Brads is ballin to When World’s Collide by Powerman 5000. Yeah, not a rap song, but I totally can see him has heavy punk metal. IMO
Bruce is still toying with Monkey Wrench by Foo Fighters.
Bruce Boudreau when asked about Brooks Laich's return to the lineup, he said: "He just adds another dimension to our team. If it was puzzle, he just fits that thing. He completes us."
Brooks Laich completing everything from teams to tires and everything in between.
And for a low blow, Micheal Nylander keeps a cd single of Free Ride by Dan Hartman in his car at all times.
Bruce Boudreau when asked about Brooks Laich's return to the lineup, he said: "He just adds another dimension to our team. If it was puzzle, he just fits that thing. He completes us."
Brooks Laich completing everything from teams to tires and everything in between.
JT60 jamming lead for Third Eye’s Blind’s Semi Charmed Life. Perhaps inspirational for his circumstances of this last season
Bruce Boudreau when asked about Brooks Laich's return to the lineup, he said: "He just adds another dimension to our team. If it was puzzle, he just fits that thing. He completes us."
Brooks Laich completing everything from teams to tires and everything in between.
if you haven’t seen it, more Macken video (this time an interview) and some other nuggets up on CI. Tidbits on Maken, Eakin, Finley, Kusznetov, BabyGus, and Cullen.
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Tidbit from Tim Leone:
Goalie Braden Holtby had Lasik eye surgery after Hershey’s season ended and is playing without contact lenses for the first time.
"It's always good to have vikings."
Proud member of the Oxford dictionary police.
I’d imagine that’ll take some adjustment
Atta dinnin stick a who!
by Gould Old Days on Jul 12, 2010 7:32 PM EDT up reply actions
Why would you think that? I never notice my lenses until it’s late and I’ve had them in for hours. He might feel a little liberated, in all the photos I’ve seen of him off ice he’s wearing glasses, so he must have hated the contacts.
"It's always good to have vikings."
Proud member of the Oxford dictionary police.
I never had Lasik, and I stopped wearing my contacts because I hate them, but I can say with certainty that playing with contacts has a very distinct feel. Even if it’s liberating, it is definitely going to be an adjustment. My eyes always felt drier and tighter when I played with contacts.
Sometimes you need a criminal lawyer, sometimes you need a criminal lawyer.
Well, that’s a good point. I hadn’t thought about it that way. So it’s an adjustment, in a good way.
"It's always good to have vikings."
Proud member of the Oxford dictionary police.
so OFB is good for something
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Southeast Standings
| GP | W | L | OTL | PT | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Florida
|
53 | 25 | 17 | 11 | 61 |
|
Washington
|
54 | 28 | 21 | 5 | 61 |
|
Winnipeg
|
56 | 26 | 24 | 6 | 58 |
|
Tampa Bay
|
53 | 23 | 24 | 6 | 52 |
|
Carolina
|
55 | 20 | 25 | 10 | 50 |
(updated 2.10.2012 at 9:27 AM EST)
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