Tuesday Caps Clips: Development Camp Day Two
by J.P. on Jul 13, 2010 6:41 AM EDT
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Your savory breakfast links:
- Today's Development Camp sessions are at 9:30 (Group B) and 11:45 (Group A). Here's a bit of what happened yesterday:
- Marcus Johansson impressed. [CI (with notes on the whole day and video of MarJo here), McNally, Examiner, CSN Washington, Caps Snaps, SB Nation DC]
- So did Cody Eakin. [Dump 'n Chase]
- And Greg Burke. [Caps Today]
- Anton Gustafsson is healthy (or, rather, as healthy as he's going to be). [Masisak]
- Joe Finley was there, too. [Finley himself at OFB, Patriot-News, OFB]
- Pictures! [Caps In Pictures (Group A, Group B), Caps Snaps, @takingnames]
- Here's a mostly complete list of the attendees - free agents included. Great work, sk8. [HFBoards]
- What the kids are eating. [Bog]
- More coverage. [RMNB (great pics), FFODC (and again)]
- Marcus Johansson impressed. [CI (with notes on the whole day and video of MarJo here), McNally, Examiner, CSN Washington, Caps Snaps, SB Nation DC]
- The two best remaining free agent centers... Eric Belanger and Brendan Morrison? Oof. [FanHouse]
- Are the Caps done with their summer re-tooling? [The Hockey News]
- After agreeing to his new deal last week, Eric Fehr chatted with LaVar and Chad (audio here). Agent Steinz has transcribed some of it. [Bog]
- Does Marty Turco kind of, sort of make sense for the Caps? I don't think so either. [PHT]
- Alex Ovechkin continues to enjoy his summer. [Alex Ovetjkin]
- Random
Vegas singerTampa writer takes a shot at AO. [St. Pete Times] - Items from the Calder Cup Finals are now available for your bidding, including the pucks from Karl Alzner's and Patrick McNeill's Game 6 goals. [eBay]
- They're thinking threepeat in Central PA. [LDN]
- Former Cap Jamie Huscroft is going to get worker's comp and disability payments nearly a decade after his career ended. [Washington Examiner (decision here)]
- Finally, happy 34th birthday to noted KHL pugilist Darcy Verot, happy 47th birthday to The Can't Miss Kid, and happy 67th birthday to Bill Collins.
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Boudreau quote from RMNB on 2C possibilities
On upgrading the team: "We have a great team in Hershey, they won 2 Calder Cups… Tomas Fleischman can play 2C, so can Brooks Laich."
Discuss…
Said the same thing about Laich last summer before they snagged Morrison.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
Really, what’s he going to say? “We’re screwed, none of our guys can play center, might as well kiss this season goodbye if we don’t upgrade”?
While truthful, it wouldn’t be all that helpful.
"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
Technically Sloan could play 2C. But I don’t want someone that simply can play slotted there. I want someone that can play 2C at a level that gives the Caps a strong second line.
I'm gonna pain you dearly Woodhouse, when I peel all your skin off with a flensing knife, sew it into Woodhouse pajamas, and then set those pajamas on fire.
by Steckel Me Elmo on Jul 13, 2010 7:19 AM EDT up reply actions
Bruce is either a) very good with the company line to make everyone happy b) loyal to a fault. I tend to think it’s B based on his treatment of Flash. It may ultimately be his undoing.
In fairness, the ball’s not in his court, is it? To borrow yesterday’s metaphor, he may be the chef, but he’s not shopping for the groceries. If the team decides to stick with what they’ve already got, it’s more on the front office than the head coach at this point.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
This. Even if they are looking, if you[‘ve got a microphone in front of you it’s better to say you’re comfortable going to war with the guys you have, rather than pine for the ones you don’t.
Look at this signature line. Notice the lack of spelling errors and self-whoring?
by Bald Pollack on Jul 13, 2010 7:28 AM EDT up reply actions
Right – the only thing worse than being desperate is looking desperate.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
That’s where I’d put it (not that B may not be in play elsewhere and often).
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
Plus, it makes sense that he named the two non-centers in the top 6 who have spent a decent amount of time and success in the position in the past (Flash during the Caps’ 14-game streak, Laich when Feds was out and Nylander was useless). Neither one is perfect and both are questionable as a long-term answer, but if the team is serious about both MoJo and Perreault, then it won’t be long-term.
If Flash is coming into training camp knowing he’s the 2C and has been working at it during a full, healthy offseason, it might be c) genuine confidence.
Unless he got shockingly better at f/o’s and decides to get down low and play D, I don’t believe that for a second. It may be a ‘C’ for Bruce but that squarely falls under ‘B’ for me.
But in reality, the Caps don’t need to solve the 2C problem until April (and by “solve” I mean have a solution that’s ready to go for the playoffs, chemistry formed, etc., so a deadline acquisition is less-than-ideal, but still potentially workable). The answer at 2C might be the difference between success (or something close to it) and failure in the playoffs, but it shouldn’t be the difference between making and missing the post-season.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
I’m hoping Johannson or MP (or even Flash) surprise and are able to take that role because I just don’t see GMGM spending the assets it will take to bring in a legit 2C at the deadline. Those guys (eg Richards) are always hot commodities and don’t come cheap. Giving away a 1st or high end prospect just doesn’t fit the “we’re building a team that will compete for years to come” mantra.
BB did say that flash “can” play 2C not “will” play 2C. ’tho perhaps no harm in giving him a second chance (assuming they keep him) to see if he develops any chemistry w/ semin and improves in the f/o and defensive zone. i could make a difference if they start him at C from the beginning vs. plugging him in mid season. keep in mind that semin may not be here for the playoff run either…
Just trying to capture the spirit of the thing...
by dcsportsfan1 on Jul 13, 2010 8:54 AM EDT up reply actions
That’s how I viewed BB’s comment—safe and noncommittal.
Barring any trades or FA signings and if he signs a contract, I wouldn’t be surprised if Flash gets the first taste at 2nd C simply because he’s the only one of the centers (mentioned as possibilities) who has had actual and longstanding NHL experience. He wasn’t all bad at that position but I remind myself that it was during the streak and just about everyone was playing well. He and BMo may not have racked up as many points but they sure helped their respective wingers do so.
My guess (and really that’s all it is) is that if Mackan does make the opening roster, then he will be tried out at 3rd C to get use to the NHL game-style. There will be a learning curve. But after a good night’s sleep, I’m feeling even more optimistic than my cautious optimism of yesterday about Mackan’s chances.
"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 13, 2010 9:17 AM EDT up reply actions
I would argue that placing Fleischmann at center was one of the things that helped trigger the streak. It gave balance to the other lines, created a productive line for Semin with two guys he does have chemistry with (Laich and Flash), and put Fleischmann in a playmaking role where he’s more effective. During the streak, the only line that struggled was the third—Chimera-Morrison-Fehr—but because of the play of the other three, Boudreau was able to stick with those combos.
Disagree. The streak – and the fact that everything they threw at the net went in – made Flash look better; a lot more of that than Flash abetting the streak.
Full disclosure: I hate Flash.
"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
by fat_daddyo on Jul 13, 2010 10:54 AM EDT up reply actions 2 recs
I would have to disagree as well. The top line was performing much better, and while the 2nd line was doing better, Flash held them back in a few ways – faceoffs being a major one.
By my examination of the game logs, Flash had 4 goals and 19 points in 21 games when he was playing center (roughly between January 5 and the Olympic break). He didn’t necessarily do well at faceoffs, and he had some trouble with the defensive side of the game, but to say that he held the second line back during his time at center doesn’t seem to comport with the facts.
"Ovechkin, what is good in life?"
"To crush your enemies. To see them driven before you. And to hear the lamentations of their captain."
For the millionth time: no C holds back or drives the second line. The second line is Sasha’s line, and will live and die with Sasha’s performance.
Sometimes you need a criminal lawyer, sometimes you need a criminal lawyer.
by Rob Parker on Jul 13, 2010 11:03 AM EDT up reply actions 3 recs
Alex Semin went 16-17-33 in the same stretch, with only 2-7-9 points of that coming on the powerplay, for what it’s worth.
"Ovechkin, what is good in life?"
"To crush your enemies. To see them driven before you. And to hear the lamentations of their captain."
I just realized that shows that Semin put up nearly 40% of his points in a stretch of games that lasted only 25% of the season, and 28% of the games in which Semin played. That’s a ridiculous hot streak right there.
"Ovechkin, what is good in life?"
"To crush your enemies. To see them driven before you. And to hear the lamentations of their captain."
I feel like this might be relevant to some past debate(s) but I can’t place my finger on it…
Sometimes you need a criminal lawyer, sometimes you need a criminal lawyer.
by Rob Parker on Jul 13, 2010 11:24 AM EDT up reply actions 4 recs
Maybe the argument that Semin’s a 40-goal scorer in this league? It’d seem to comport with the fact that Semin’s goal and point totals were inflated by a particularly good stretch of play on his – and the team’s – part.
"Ovechkin, what is good in life?"
"To crush your enemies. To see them driven before you. And to hear the lamentations of their captain."
I meant the constant arguments about Semin’s consistency.
Sometimes you need a criminal lawyer, sometimes you need a criminal lawyer.
That boy’s going to win a Conn Smythe some day
Atta dinnin stick a who!
by Gould Old Days on Jul 13, 2010 11:47 AM EDT up reply actions
They got one of those in the KHL?
Sometimes you need a criminal lawyer, sometimes you need a criminal lawyer.
by Rob Parker on Jul 13, 2010 12:03 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
Almost rec’d, but I agree with Gould Old Days.
Cидни Kросби: Александр Oвечкин, он твой папа теперь
матовая Клими, Михал нуивирт ваш папа теперь
Red Line Station: for Capitals fans who can bear reading something less intelligent than a story at Japers' Rink
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by red army line on Jul 13, 2010 11:28 PM EDT up reply actions
I would love it if that happened. Of course I’ll settle for a Caps Stanley Cup and a Conn Smythe trophy for any Cap.
Rocking the Red since 1975
I think that implicit in that claim is the strong possibility that Semin does it for another team.
Sometimes you need a criminal lawyer, sometimes you need a criminal lawyer.
Yeah, at this point I’d put AO, Backstrom, and even our 1D (Green, slim slim chance Carlson) better chance than Semin.
Cидни Kросби: Александр Oвечкин, он твой папа теперь
матовая Клими, Михал нуивирт ваш папа теперь
Red Line Station: for Capitals fans who can bear reading something less intelligent than a story at Japers' Rink
Follow me on Twitter!
by red army line on Jul 14, 2010 12:20 AM EDT up reply actions
It’s gotta be AO. Over two months and 20+ games who else is going to keep pace with him?
Sometimes you need a criminal lawyer, sometimes you need a criminal lawyer.
I dunno, but wings rarely win the Smythe, right? It’s tied most for goalies and centers I think followed by D, IIRC.
Cидни Kросби: Александр Oвечкин, он твой папа теперь
матовая Клими, Михал нуивирт ваш папа теперь
Red Line Station: for Capitals fans who can bear reading something less intelligent than a story at Japers' Rink
Follow me on Twitter!
by red army line on Jul 14, 2010 9:58 AM EDT up reply actions
I’m not shocked at all, but I have a question. When we heard GMGM say stuff like that, people said “oh it’s just a negotiating ploy so the other GMs don’t rip us off for a 2C.” Well, how is this not a bad negotiating stance for the Caps regarding Flash? Aside from the litany of flaws with Flash, and the objective fact that he’s not a good center, how are you telling his agent you think he’s an adequate 2C while negotiations are ongoing? Shouldn’t he be downplaying that, if people are buying the Caps public negotiation argument?
Sometimes you need a criminal lawyer, sometimes you need a criminal lawyer.
It cuts both ways – if your intention is to move him, you play up his versatility. But it’s a valid point.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
I’m solidly in the “these aren’t public negotiations stances” position. When GMGM says he is happy with the team, I don’t think it really has anything to do with other GMs. The other GMs know our roster and have had private discussions with GMGM. Nothing he says is really going to influence them. I can’t imagine a single GM looking at our roster, thinking “oh man they need help at C and maybe D” and then hearing GMGM say “we have 12 NHL D and we probably have 6 guys that can play C” and then thinking “oh, I guess the Caps are set.” No, they all see what’s up and regardless of what GMGM says to the press it won’t change negotiations with other GMs.
Similarly, I don’t really think BB talking up Flash as 2C is going to be a huge factor in the negotiations (but I do think it will be more of a factor than what GMGM says). I believe the arbitrator is allowed to consider how a player fits in a team and how much the player contributes to team success. Playing up the viability of Flash at 2C isn’t going to help that aspect of it.
Sometimes you need a criminal lawyer, sometimes you need a criminal lawyer.
by Rob Parker on Jul 13, 2010 9:54 AM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
Agree with a lot of your points (and the point above about the negotiation with Flash, which I had not considered). I think the “We’re OK here” remarks are mainly directed at the player personnel. Just to keep morale up, so to speak.
"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 suppose they think that not taking potshots at a player is worth losing an extra few hundred thousand in the negotiation. If you say “we don’t see Flash as an option at 2C,” you will affect his confidence and make a news story where there wasn’t one. The guy objectively did play 2C last year, and saying you’re comfortable with that again doesn’t change anything while leaving you flexible to do it again if you have to.
Fun fact — Flash took 371 faceoffs and won 43% of them last year. That’s horrible, but Brooks Laich (who was pretty good on the dot in previous years) took 337 faceoffs and won only 45% of them. So Brooks wasn’t much better at it.
Atta dinnin stick a who!
by Gould Old Days on Jul 13, 2010 9:56 AM EDT up reply actions
And regulars here know that I don’t like Laich at 2C either.
Sometimes you need a criminal lawyer, sometimes you need a criminal lawyer.
Laich is a good guy and a great story with his work habits and all, but I think he’s eminently replaceable, and fairly easily ugradeable at 2L.
"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 don’t disagree. Great second-line fill-in, but he’s a 3rd-liner/PP specialist on a Cup contender, IMO.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
Disagree on that. He’s a legit 20-goal scorer who plays all positions. He’s a top 6 complimentary player, not a fill-in.
He’s a legit 20-goal scorer because he gets the PP time to be so. In the past three seasons he’s had 11, 13 and 12 non-PP goals (by comparison, Fehr had 18, Flash had 16 this past season). He also had the second-worst GAON/60 at five-on-five of any forward who was on the team all year.
I’m very comfortable with him as a fill-in, and if he’s the third-most-skilled guy on the line, he can work there, but I maintain that his best fit is as a third liner.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
If this was Super Mario 2, Brooks Laich would be Mario. Average at everything, excellent at nothing. He can fill any role competently, but “competently” doesn’t win you the Cup.
Laich – Steckel – Bradley was a great 3rd line in the playoffs two years ago in part because the forwards on the top 2 lines were deep enough to push Brooks down to the 3rd
Atta dinnin stick a who!
by Gould Old Days on Jul 13, 2010 11:49 AM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
If this were Super Mario 2, Flash would be Princess Peach, in that he floats a lot.
If this were Super Mario 2, who’d be Toad (great at digging, but not much else?).
"Ovechkin, what is good in life?"
"To crush your enemies. To see them driven before you. And to hear the lamentations of their captain."
I thought Luigi was the one who was average at everything and excellent at nothing?
I never travel far....without a little Big Star...
Ron and Fez 11 to 3
by YvonLabresMoustache on Jul 13, 2010 11:57 AM EDT up reply actions
If I recall correctly, Luigi was good at jumping, so that would be Ovi since he always leaves his feet.
"Do not be afraid to ask for credit, for our way of refusing is very polite."
by Laich It Or Lump It on Jul 13, 2010 12:06 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
This is the case~
"Don't mind WM...he's an all-around jerk."
by Whiter Mage on Jul 13, 2010 12:21 PM EDT up reply actions
Disagree with all three of you above.
He point production derives disproportionately from the power play. He’s mediocre defensively. He does not have soft or skilled hands. He doesn’t have great vision or passing skills. He’s strong, tough, hard working, and willing to pay a price to get to the high value scoring areas – which he uses to good effect on the power play.
He could be upgraded at 2L – especially on a line with Alex Semin – at even strength, though.
"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
Sure…
He could be upgraded at 2L
However, where are you going to get that upgrade for his cap hit of under $3M (after arbitration). There are alot of teams in this league that would like to have Flash at 2L.
And you do, admittedly, hate him.
I was discussing Laich, fyi.
The Flash at C experiment was a product of several considerations. One, Flash has to play a Top-6 role. He’s not hard-nosed enough to play a third or fourth line role.
Two, there are already four wings on the club that are better than Flash: AO, Laich, Knubs, and Semin.
Three, the C position was a bit of a black hole.
So, where else are you going to put Flash (other than the press box, that is)?
"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 would build a fort on that limb and say Fehr is a significantly better W than Flash is.
by psuscott1 on Jul 13, 2010 11:28 AM EDT up reply actions 3 recs
I’ll add a parking lot, some big box stores, and an Applebee’s and start selling leases…
"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
heck, he could be upgraded by Semin at 2L
/GOD’s plan’d
More norrissey, less morrissey
by bigonetimer on Jul 13, 2010 11:08 AM EDT up reply actions
He had 21 out of 59 points on the PP – about 36%. Ovie had 36 out of 109 on the PP – 33%. Backs had 37 out of 101 – 36%. Semin had 27 out of 84 on the PP – 32%. Flash had 20 out of 51 – 39%. Only top six forwards who didn’t have that range of their points on the PP were Knuble and BMo.
Laich is a valid top 6 forward for many of the same reasons Knuble is – he is willing to go to the front of the net and pay the price to create opportunities.
I would leave the assists out of it for Laich – his value comes in putting the puck in the net.
Think of it this way – wouldn’t you rather have Laich forechecking and going to the net on the third line, and racking up PP goals, and have a 2L that scores more at even strength?
"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
For me Laich’s best value to the team lies in his desire to drive the net (which I hope he learns how to do more effectively from Knubes) and in his versatility.
If someone is injured he can be an immediate fill in without playing poorly in that position. I’m thinking in particular of a game last fall when he had to fill in as a defensive player—can’t remember the particulars but only that he was extremely useful.
That’s our Brooksie—extremely capable in any situation (even with flat tires) and carries the lowest body fat of any player on the team.
"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 13, 2010 11:56 AM EDT up reply actions
That analysis is missing two important factors: Laich is underwhelming at ES defense, so while he is scoring, opportunities are also going the other way at a much higher rate than the other players you mentioned.
The second is that at ES, Laich scores more goals per unit time than the 4th line and that’s basically it.
As a ratio of PP/Total points, yeah, he’s in line with the others. But if you give the others on that list the same amount of ice with Laich’s teammates, their production is much higher than his, both in terms of raw offense and in terms of goal differential, which is what really counts.
Only YOU can prevent idiots from commenting!
by Knee high to a duck on Jul 13, 2010 2:51 PM EDT via mobile up reply actions
Why are there still Varly t-shirts at Kettler with #40? Shouldn’t those be on the discount rack at this point (from the RMNB post).
Theo t-shirts are still full price, too (didn’t stop me)
#savethekittens!
Donation info for SAVES FOR KIDS 2010!! Make a difference.
there were quite a few yesterday, and the crowd is really thin today. You should be good to go tomorrow.
#savethekittens!
Donation info for SAVES FOR KIDS 2010!! Make a difference.
If any of ya’ll will be around, good chance I’ll be showing my face tomorrow.
"Game's the same. Just got more fierce."
by Hooks Orpik on Jul 13, 2010 11:47 AM EDT up reply actions
Someone bring decontamination spray.
(Yes, I know about the avatar hounding - just pretend mine is invisible.)
by oldemystix on Jul 13, 2010 11:49 AM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
Don’t worry, I’ve showered off all the Stanley Cup success.
"Game's the same. Just got more fierce."
by Hooks Orpik on Jul 13, 2010 1:09 PM EDT up reply actions 3 recs
Excellent, rec’d.
On the Forecheck: preaching the Predators' gospel to the unwashed masses.
by Chris Burton on Jul 13, 2010 1:19 PM EDT up reply actions
That was washed off already this year.
(Yes, I know about the avatar hounding - just pretend mine is invisible.)
And yet when you don’t smell like it, it’s still around.
Look at this signature line. Notice the lack of spelling errors and self-whoring?
by Bald Pollack on Jul 13, 2010 1:25 PM EDT up reply actions
You sure you got it all? I mean they have a nice fire hose at Kettler to help clean it up. ;-)
j/k
Washington Capitals 2009-10 = Quebec Nordiques 1994-95
--- D'ohboy
by MikeL-Pivonka on Jul 13, 2010 2:18 PM EDT up reply actions
Tom Jones in St. Pete sounds like he needs a warm milk enema to help release all those toxins.
More norrissey, less morrissey
It’s not unusual……
A clear conscience is usually the sign of a bad memory
by Rather Bengt on Jul 13, 2010 7:42 AM EDT up reply actions 3 recs
What a waste — it’s as though he just wants my extra time…
Atta dinnin stick a who!
by Gould Old Days on Jul 13, 2010 9:22 AM EDT up reply actions
LOL @ that tampa article.
I think the hazing back and forth amongst DC and Pburg is starting to cool and fans are finally growing sick of the “Ovie sucks/Crosby sucks” chants so SOMEONE out there has to fan the flames.
If you have a huge list of premadonnas and feel the need to throw a hockey player on there and it ISN’T Sean Avery, then it’s just straight up jealousy. C’mon Tampa. You got Stamkos now… stop hatin’ :P
well, i’m pretty sure ov’s “hot stick” routine happened in st. pete times forum, which probably led to this guy’s panties being in a wad about his “disrespectful” celebrations. he also gets to see ov punk his team four times a year vs. seeing nice respectiful sid only twice.
Just trying to capture the spirit of the thing...
by dcsportsfan1 on Jul 13, 2010 8:44 AM EDT up reply actions
It’s nothing more than filler on a day when there is almost zero sports to report. Anyone could have written that.
Every bursted bubble has a glory! Each abysmal failure makes a point! Every glowing path that goes astray,shows you how to find a better way. So every time you stumble never grumble. Next time you'll bumble even less!
Debby Harry = Awesome
Madonna = Not so much…
Washington Capitals 2009-10 = Quebec Nordiques 1994-95
--- D'ohboy
by MikeL-Pivonka on Jul 13, 2010 2:19 PM EDT up reply actions
On the Tampa article, sounds like a good team to travel up to Montreal to get tickets to and to root against.
(I had promised to go attend a game in the stadium of the team that dumped Pittsburgh from the playoffs and, since Montreal was that team, that’s my plan.)
Of course, the only problem is the fact that they’ve sold all their season tickets and its hard to get tickets. (They apparently have 3 game plans available. Maybe I should do that, attend a second game, and dump the third set of tickets.)
I had already decided that a game against Tampa was the most convenient time for me to travel up to Montreal. That article convinced me to even more to root against Tampa.
Rocking the Red since 1975
From Bog
…another about what alcohol you’d want to drink as part of a nutritious diet. You know, just in case.
Joe Finley’s just a straight up frat animal, huh?
He’s so good at hitting, he even hits the bottle
I never travel far....without a little Big Star...
Ron and Fez 11 to 3
by YvonLabresMoustache on Jul 13, 2010 9:09 AM EDT up reply actions 4 recs
From Finley’s post on OFB:
My favorite movie? Easy. [Old School]. Solid flick, [bro].
… OK, maybe I altered that quote a little.
"Do not be afraid to ask for credit, for our way of refusing is very polite."
by Laich It Or Lump It on Jul 13, 2010 9:15 AM EDT up reply actions
Really interesting Clips today. It has been a while since I have had this many Caps-related browser tabs open.
I love what I’m hearing about Marcus Johansson; better skating than Backstrom and the same great vision on the ice. It is hard not to be excited about the guy. Vogs’ piece on Eakin has me excited as well, and I love how Kuznetsov is translating drill instructions for Orlov.
Also, say what you will about OFB, Joe Finley, and the former’s obsession with the latter, but I am all for player blogging. It is always interesting to hear straight from the primary source, regardless of the player.
"Do not be afraid to ask for credit, for our way of refusing is very polite."
by Laich It Or Lump It on Jul 13, 2010 9:09 AM EDT reply actions
better skating than Backstrom
I saw that line yesterday and while I’m generally impressed by “better [anything] than Backstrom,” if there’s one noticeable part of his game that isn’t elite, it’s his skating. But yeah, everything I’ve heard about the guys for whom I’m hopeful has been great.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
Maybe we don’t need to go get a 2C then? ;)
I never travel far....without a little Big Star...
Ron and Fez 11 to 3
by YvonLabresMoustache on Jul 13, 2010 9:31 AM EDT up reply actions
I’m generally impressed by "better [anything] than Backstrom,"
This was my line of thinking as well. I have no problem admitting that I am not the best judge of skating, save for the outliers. He reportedly has a smooth stride and a solid stance that should help him stay on the puck. Sounds good to me.
"Do not be afraid to ask for credit, for our way of refusing is very polite."
by Laich It Or Lump It on Jul 13, 2010 9:34 AM EDT up reply actions
For me at least I’ve found it tough to judge him since I don’t have a legit NHLer there to compare him with. Mackan is just the best out there.
Cидни Kросби: Александр Oвечкин, он твой папа теперь
матовая Клими, Михал нуивирт ваш папа теперь
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by red army line on Jul 13, 2010 11:33 PM EDT up reply actions
Glad to see you active. I agree about the player blogging. It’s cool they got him, it’s just sooooooooooooo OFB to get Finley. Their obsession with him has become well known, but I try not to hold that against him. He seems like a good guy that’s just trying to make a living playing hockey. I don’t think he’ll do it, and I hate why OFB has latched on to him, but good for him.
Eakin looks like a better pick every day. He’s one of the key draft picks in terms of maintaining our prospect depth.
Mackan has everyone excited. I’m more than a little surprised that he’s “a better skater than Backstrom,” and while acknowledging that BB has more experience scouting/evaluating talent than I could dream of, I’m not sure I entirely buy it. Better straight ahead speed I could see, but the balance and ability to weave in tight spaces with his head up and the puck on his stick is also a skating skill. I can’t believe Mackan is on Baxter’s level in those regards yet. Baxter has never been the most explosive skater, but it’s not a liability for him. If Mackan really is an all around better skater than Baxter, it’s hard to see him not playing in the NHL this year. I really hope his SEL teams fills his roster spot so his only options are HER and DC this year so he doesn’t use his European opt-out clause and we can keep him in North America all season. He may not be ready for a full NHL season, but he should get a taste and I’d rather he go to HER if he doesn’t hack it.
Sometimes you need a criminal lawyer, sometimes you need a criminal lawyer.
I like the Finley blog. That said, the fact that RMNB had an AHLer (first) and OFB an ECHLer is sorta funny.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
And that RMNB had a guy blogging on the AHL finals and not his 9th development camp.
Odds on which guest blogger wears a Caps jersey first?
Sometimes you need a criminal lawyer, sometimes you need a criminal lawyer.
A. Gordon + RMNB + Calder Cup Finals > J. Finley + OFB + Development Camp
"Do not be afraid to ask for credit, for our way of refusing is very polite."
by Laich It Or Lump It on Jul 13, 2010 10:00 AM EDT up reply actions
Just wait for when we have Ovi blogging the Stanley Cup Finals for us…
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
by J.P. on Jul 13, 2010 10:02 AM EDT up reply actions 3 recs
Oh man, I can’t wait for 2018.
Sometimes you need a criminal lawyer, sometimes you need a criminal lawyer.
Hey, I didn’t say the Caps would be in the Finals Ovi was blogging.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
Why? Is that when you will finally be gainfully employed?
"Do not be afraid to ask for credit, for our way of refusing is very polite."
by Laich It Or Lump It on Jul 13, 2010 10:25 AM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
I know there hasn’t been enough opportunity yet to really tell, but are any of the free agent invites standing out?
Atta dinnin stick a who!
Burt. I noticed him too. He was with Mackan and Galiev and could keep up. Those three looked the fastest and most nimble to my eyes yesterday. I found him this morning in the HFBoards clip.
"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 13, 2010 11:59 AM EDT up reply actions
That’d be Cameron Burt, right?
"Ovechkin, what is good in life?"
"To crush your enemies. To see them driven before you. And to hear the lamentations of their captain."
Not sure about first name, but Burt looked like a decent looking guy, but his shot didn’t look up to snuff, and his passes weren’t as crisp. Took a puck off the foot that looked like it hurt like hell. He was pretty cool after practice when walking by, and I said “I bet that shot off the skate hurt like Hell” or something and he said “It did not feel good,” laughed, and walked out.
"Don't mind WM...he's an all-around jerk."
by Whiter Mage on Jul 13, 2010 12:15 PM EDT up reply actions
How did he compare to his play yesterday? I couldn’t get out to Kettler today.
"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 13, 2010 12:27 PM EDT up reply actions
Not there today – I’ve driven/ridden over 1000 miles in the last 5 days, and I’m just tired today. Took a rest day since today’s a short one.
"Don't mind WM...he's an all-around jerk."
by Whiter Mage on Jul 13, 2010 12:34 PM EDT up reply actions
Rough. I’m hoping to get out tomorrow especiallly for the scrimmage.
"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 13, 2010 3:05 PM EDT up reply actions
I didn’t see him yesterday, but WhiterMage’s impressions match what I saw today.
#savethekittens!
Donation info for SAVES FOR KIDS 2010!! Make a difference.
Yes. Cameron Burt. What I noticed was his speed—able to keep up with two very fast guys. Hands not as good but then again I was comparing him to Mackan and Galiev (who really does like to shoot). Let’s just say I noticed that he held his own.
2008-09: Played in 36 games, evolving into a go-to scorer as the year progressed … scored 13 goals to go along with 17 assists for 30 points, while playing at a plus-11 … one of six 30-point scorers on RIT … among national leaderes in points by a first-year player … two-time Atlantic Hockey Association Rookie of the Week, Feb. 8 and March 23 … recorded his first collegiate point against Clarkson … scored his first collegiate goals in back-to-back games against Sacred Heart … set season highs with two goals and three points in the Atlantic Hockey Semifinal against Mercyhurst … his second goal of the game came with the extra attacker on the ice and 58.6 seconds left in regulation, sending the game into overtime … led RIT with 257 face-off wins … ended the season with 17 points (6-11-17) over his last 12 games … scored two points in four straight games, Feb. 6 to Feb. 14 … recorded a point in 20 games … tallied nine multiple-point efforts … was a plus-3 on three different occasions, versus Army, Connecticut and Holy Cross … fired 92 shots on goal.
"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 13, 2010 12:21 PM EDT up reply actions
FYI, the link in JP provided to my list includes the links to the player’s hockeydb profiles and their team profiles (in most cases)
Thanks. It is a great list—I kept scratching my head trying to figure out who some of these guys were and lo-and-behold was able to find them with your help.
"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 13, 2010 12:28 PM EDT up reply actions
He played for my favorite Frozen Four team this past April “RIT, RIT, RIT!”.
RedBirdie – You’re husband would like him. He’s from the D, and therefore grew up a Wings fan.
"You ever use smelling salts, every time you type a bad blog?" Brooks Laich
How the fuck do we s’pose to keep peace?
by Kerry Fraser's Hairspray on Jul 13, 2010 2:17 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
thanks, I’ll let him know :) he’s comign for Thursday morning’s scrimmage.
#savethekittens!
Donation info for SAVES FOR KIDS 2010!! Make a difference.
No circle on his jersey.
"Don't mind WM...he's an all-around jerk."
by Whiter Mage on Jul 13, 2010 12:11 PM EDT up reply actions
Finley's Finish...
Walking around D.C. this week, it doesn’t feel much like Alaska.
Does DC ever feel like Alaska. Well maybe last winter. Interesting insights from the Lawnmower Man…. although no mention (yet) of his antics at UND…
Washington Capitals 2009-10 = Quebec Nordiques 1994-95
--- D'ohboy
I can tell you, even after last winter DC never feels like AK.
Look at me, Dustin! I'm a F%^king Icon!
True indeed, esp. the past few weeks…
Washington Capitals 2009-10 = Quebec Nordiques 1994-95
--- D'ohboy
by MikeL-Pivonka on Jul 13, 2010 11:03 AM EDT up reply actions
Regarding Huscroft
I’m wondering if the Caps were self-insured for their comp coverage, or if they had a worker’s comp policy in place? If the latter, then we’re talking about a fairly standard lawsuit over a denial of coverage (although I shudder to think what the premiums might have been).
If the former, it’s a bit of a black eye for the club, really. I should note that I have zero idea what the DC Insurance regs permit or don’t permit regarding self insuring; most states require that a Third Party Administrator runs a bona fide program that the employer funds and has a claims process for.
"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 just found a handy-dandy reference page for worker’s comp http://www.expertlaw.com/library/comp_by_state/District_of_Columbia.html#4
and I imagine the issue could be how much the premium increases after such a claim. And like all insurance claims, I’ll wager the insurance company was the one litigating as much as it was the team.
"It's always good to have vikings."
Proud member of the Oxford dictionary police.
Eakin - Projectable?
Eakin scored 50 goals in 83 games between the WHL and the AHL last year. I think BtN discounts those goals by about 45% (going off memory here). That would translate into 20 NHL goals (when he’s ready, not right now, I think).
Not too bad.
"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
Eakin looks 1 year away. But looks fantastically mature and committed.
4th Floor, is next, swimvare, undervare, Eric Fehr...
Sounds like he may be a candidate to get a cup of coffee early in the season prior to being returned to juniors. Would love to see that (assuming he wouldn’t be completely out of place).
Given how history works, he probably needs another year in Juniors and a full year in the A with a cup of coffee in the NHL before he really makes it.
Atta dinnin stick a who!
by Gould Old Days on Jul 13, 2010 11:51 AM EDT up reply actions
This is what I expect; I’m a realistic lobbyist. But I won’t be surprised if he goes back to juniors now, finishes the season in the AHL playoffs again, and ends up finding his way to Washington during 2011-2012. And I hope we’ll get to see him play in the WJC, too.
by CapitalCentre on Jul 13, 2010 12:03 PM EDT up reply actions
My guess is that he (and Orlov, and Della Rovere) are going to be highly sought after commodities as we try to move some of our organizational depth to acquire those final pieces in building a cup-winner. I’m personally a bit pessimistic that I will ever see him in a Caps sweater, but do expect him to break into the NHL within the next 3 seasons.
Love it when the numbers work out.
I should note that I mis-typed in my original post – I think BtN discounts WHL/AHL goals by about 55% – 60%, so the multiplier would be about .40 or .45.
"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
Back at Kettler...
Just saw Johannson rip a steal and then had a nifty move with puck to avoid a defender then a back pass to an open teammate for a shot. Nice.
4th Floor, is next, swimvare, undervare, Eric Fehr...
This drill is so disjointed or the players just aren’t executing. Lots of whistles.
4th Floor, is next, swimvare, undervare, Eric Fehr...
Random cap geek question… If I come up with a CHI roster of 55M and the cap is 59M, does that mean that they are done because of their 4M penalty? Or is that taken into account in the 55M?
"It's good to be compared to great players, great teams. But we're not Oilers, we're Capitals."
~Alex Ovechkin
Look for “Carry-Over Bonus Penalty” in your results. If it reads “$4,157,753” then it’s already taken into account.
Atta dinnin stick a who!
by Gould Old Days on Jul 13, 2010 10:39 AM EDT up reply actions
Quick answer…Two issues: 1) offseason and 2) season
1) Off-season: 110% of cap max of 59.4M ; all one way contracts count regardless of where players are expected to play during the season (minors, Europe, e.g., Huet, etc.); players on two way contracts signed for the coming season count prorated based on days on the roster in the previous season, etc.
2) Season: Cap max. There is a bonus cushion for this season so factor that in, but also factor in the bonus penalty for the carry-over bonuses (last estimate I saw was 4.1M.) Someone like Huet likely won’t count if he is waived and assigned to minors or loaned to Europe.
by sk84fun_dc on Jul 13, 2010 10:40 AM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
The $55M of actual payroll does not take into account the $4.1M penalty, so their “allocable” payroll for 2010-11 is the actual + the penalty, or $59M.
So, yeah, they’re screwed, in other words. They still have to get Niemi back into the fold. Then they have to add a net total of 4 forwards, 2 D and 1 G to get to 13, 7 and 2 warm bodies, respectively.
They could park Huet in the AHL. He’d be useless there because they couldn’t call him up to play or back up, but it does free up a chunk of roster space. Assuming Niemmi comes in for around $3.5M (using Halak as a comp), the club would have $2.1M to fill out the 7 roster spots; or, less than the minimum, on average.
So they’re going to have to free up another, say, $3M via trade (or waivers, or loan or whatever). Here’s how that works out:
8 players @ $500,000 each = $4M
Add in 15% for overages and whatever they have to take back in the form of salary = $4.6M
That would leave them with around $400K in cap space; note that I think the numbers above are optimistic from Chicago’s point of view.
"You want to start being part of the Rink? Fine, but more’s expected of you than John/Jane Cap Fan. Carry the cause of informed discussion to the unwashed masses and don’t crap in the yards of other SBN sites if you decide to go over there. They’re passionate about their teams too, no need to troll elsewhere and/or be a sore winner." --BP
And guess who is a little above $3M? None other than a Mr. Sharp!
"It's good to be compared to great players, great teams. But we're not Oilers, we're Capitals."
~Alex Ovechkin
Yeah. Sharp, Bolland and Seabrook are all in the right salary range in this analysis.
"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 would take Dave Bolland in a heartbeat.
A hearbeat.
Less than 3.5M for a special teams specialist who is exactly what this team needs in the playoffs? And we’d have him for 4 years?
A heartbeat.
Atta dinnin stick a who!
by Gould Old Days on Jul 13, 2010 11:55 AM EDT up reply actions
If Chicago comes a-callin’ dangling any of those three, I hope GMGM is listening.
Eat, drink, and be merry! And then drink some more.
I hope GMGM is calling them..
Every bursted bubble has a glory! Each abysmal failure makes a point! Every glowing path that goes astray,shows you how to find a better way. So every time you stumble never grumble. Next time you'll bumble even less!
I find it hard to see the Caps as a trading partner with Chicago given their cap situation.
We don’t have the low salary roster players that Chicago would want back. I’m thinking the contracts Flash and Schultz were on last year would be the type they’d want. This year – I don’t see GMGM parting with our low salary guys like Carlson or a goalie, so the only option would be a package of not yet ready for the NHL prospects. I have to think other teams will have a better offer.
It would be great if it happens, I just think the Caps will get outbid.
And then there’s the possiblity that was brought up (by Hooks? I think) that even if the Caps don’t get outbid that Chicago would rather deal with a bottom-feeder (ATL/TOR for Buff, Ladd, Versteeg so far). But I can still hope.
Eat, drink, and be merry! And then drink some more.
But, if they had to deal with a contender, they’d rather deal with an Eastern Conference contender than one in the West.
Rocking the Red since 1975
…Seabrook to Nashville? ;)
Cидни Kросби: Александр Oвечкин, он твой папа теперь
матовая Клими, Михал нуивирт ваш папа теперь
Red Line Station: for Capitals fans who can bear reading something less intelligent than a story at Japers' Rink
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by red army line on Jul 13, 2010 11:37 PM EDT up reply actions
Figured as much. Since Chicago trading with the Sharks is like the Caps trading with a certain team in Western PA.
Rocking the Red since 1975
And Chicago trading with Nashville is like the Caps trading with a certain team in Eastern PA.
Sometimes you need a criminal lawyer, sometimes you need a criminal lawyer.
Then I should have said Seabrook to Toronto or Philadelphia. Those teams NEED defensemen badly.
Cидни Kросби: Александр Oвечкин, он твой папа теперь
матовая Клими, Михал нуивирт ваш папа теперь
Red Line Station: for Capitals fans who can bear reading something less intelligent than a story at Japers' Rink
Follow me on Twitter!
by red army line on Jul 14, 2010 12:21 AM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
Glad to have your analysis on Bolland – I don’t see a lot of the WC teams, so I’m a bit iffy on the relative value of a lot of the players there.
"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
Bolland’s a stud. Pain in the ass to play against.
On the Forecheck: preaching the Predators' gospel to the unwashed masses.
by Chris Burton on Jul 13, 2010 12:32 PM EDT up reply actions
Unless he finds some offense I don’t particularly like his contract. I could live with it, he’d be a great 3C. He’s just not 2C material as of now and I think CHI paid him thinking he would turn into one.
Sometimes you need a criminal lawyer, sometimes you need a criminal lawyer.
i remember hearing the Chicago broadcasters say Bolland was Dale Hunters favorite back in London. His play reminded him of Hunter. Don’t know that I can verify any of this on the web, other than he did play for the Knights though.
plagued by penguins fans at work
I want him at that salary as a premier 3C. He’s not a 2C, but he’s a damned good 3C and hard to play against
Atta dinnin stick a who!
by Gould Old Days on Jul 13, 2010 12:51 PM EDT up reply actions
Be nice to have a strong 3C to throw out there against Pitt.
"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 don’t like the deal either; but he’s perhaps the top 3c in the league. You guys don’t really have a good 2C or 3C. I’d be willing to take that deal on, probably.
On the Forecheck: preaching the Predators' gospel to the unwashed masses.
by Chris Burton on Jul 13, 2010 12:52 PM EDT up reply actions
I’d take him if CHI isn’t looking for anything elite in return. I’d say he’s definitely one of the best 3Cs in the league. Whether he is “the best” or not probably depends on where Kesler and J. Staal are lining up.
Sometimes you need a criminal lawyer, sometimes you need a criminal lawyer.
Well, I know for sure that Kesler is the 2C in Vancouver behind Sedin.
I overlooked Staal. I’d take him over Bolland at the 3, obviously.
On the Forecheck: preaching the Predators' gospel to the unwashed masses.
by Chris Burton on Jul 13, 2010 12:56 PM EDT up reply actions
Kesler played 2 for VAN but ideally is a 3. If VAN can push him to 3C then I take him over Bolland as well. But that’s about the extent of it.
I don’t think it’ll happen but there’s been speculation that Staal will move up to the top 6 this season.
Sometimes you need a criminal lawyer, sometimes you need a criminal lawyer.
I can’t recall if David Backes plays 3C or not, either. Hm.
Where does that leave Malkin?
On the Forecheck: preaching the Predators' gospel to the unwashed masses.
by Chris Burton on Jul 13, 2010 12:58 PM EDT up reply actions
Staal’s apparently going to get a shot at wing in order to get him more ice time in bigger situations – my guess is Malkin stays at center (for now).
I’d move Malkin to wing and let Staal center.
Between the two of them they are like 85% on face offs!
Sometimes you need a criminal lawyer, sometimes you need a criminal lawyer.
by Rob Parker on Jul 13, 2010 1:03 PM EDT up reply actions 2 recs
Staal takes the draws, but Malkin will play the “Center” position.
…Until the playoffs, anyways.
"Game's the same. Just got more fierce."
Interesting. How much cap space do you guys have to get a winger for Crosby? Still chasing Afinogenov or Kariya?
On the Forecheck: preaching the Predators' gospel to the unwashed masses.
by Chris Burton on Jul 13, 2010 1:12 PM EDT up reply actions
They had really minimal talks with both.
As I’ve said, Kariya’s gonna take another month to make sure he still wants to play and then talk to a few teams.
I have no idea what came of the Afinogenov talk, but obviously not much.
Bill Guerin’s still dangling in the wind, if he’ll take $1 million, wouldn’t surprise me if they bring him back for one last hurrah.
At this point for top 6 wingers: Kunitz, Dupuis, Talbot and Staal. And that’s assuming a young player (Tangradi) can’t step in. It’s not a measure of strength by any means, but I think the group will be a lot better than last year.
"Game's the same. Just got more fierce."
I can’t imagine being comfortable with Talbot in the top six.
On the Forecheck: preaching the Predators' gospel to the unwashed masses.
by Chris Burton on Jul 13, 2010 1:30 PM EDT up reply actions
Last year was terrible, injury plagued year for Talbot. This year he needs to be a lot better.
8 goals, 5 assists in 24 playoff games 2 springs ago. He can do it, just needs to be consistent in a regular season.
That said, he’s probably not going to be a full time top 6 guy.
"Game's the same. Just got more fierce."
Trade ya JP Dumont!
On the Forecheck: preaching the Predators' gospel to the unwashed masses.
by Chris Burton on Jul 13, 2010 1:33 PM EDT up reply actions
I wanted him for years, I was hoping he’d hit the UFA market he would have been ideal.
But now, I’d just prefer have Kunitz; who’s younger, slightly cheaper and plays a more “Pittsburgh” style.
"Game's the same. Just got more fierce."
Lots of talk he may be available. If you can afford the salary, Poile won’t be looking for much – we have a total logjam at every position right now.
On the Forecheck: preaching the Predators' gospel to the unwashed masses.
by Chris Burton on Jul 13, 2010 1:37 PM EDT up reply actions
Take Dupuis? 18 goals last year, hard worker, $1.4 mill hit, UFA after next season.
If the Pens did like Dupuis + pick/prospect for Dumont they’d be right at the cap though.
"Game's the same. Just got more fierce."
...
We can’t take on any more roster players even if we dumped Dumont. I’d be fine with just a pick and prospect. Consider:
Hornqvist/Lombardi/Erat
Sullivan/Wilson/Ward
Smithson/Legwand/Kostitsyn
Andersson/Goc/Tootoo
O’Reilly
Spaling
Dumont
Thuresson
Belak
Obviously Dumont’s much higher on the depth chart than that; but that shows the logjam.
On the Forecheck: preaching the Predators' gospel to the unwashed masses.
by Chris Burton on Jul 13, 2010 1:49 PM EDT up reply actions
What are the odds you guys ever get to spend to the cap? For a team with self-imposed budget restrictions, that ain’t half-bad.
Eat, drink, and be merry! And then drink some more.
Yeah, its not bad at all. I’m very pleased with the forwards and defense we have for next year, the problem is three or four NHL players are going to be eating nachos because we can’t send them down.
When the Del Biaggo bankruptcy issue gets worked out; it allows Calgary businessman Brett Wilson to buy in. At that point, we can supposedly spend to the cap. I can’t wait. One of four teams to win 40 games 5 years in a row. Thats on a restricted budget; I can’t imagine what we can do with the full cap.
On the Forecheck: preaching the Predators' gospel to the unwashed masses.
by Chris Burton on Jul 13, 2010 1:57 PM EDT up reply actions
At that point, we can supposedly spend to the cap. I can’t wait.
From a fan who went through similar, it’s such a great feeling.
"Game's the same. Just got more fierce."
Yup. It’ll allow us to sign (theoretically) a high scoring wing for the power play!
On the Forecheck: preaching the Predators' gospel to the unwashed masses.
by Chris Burton on Jul 13, 2010 2:05 PM EDT up reply actions
I’ve said it before; I’ll say it once more – I’d love Semin on the Predators in an internal-budgetless world. I’d be fine acquiring him via trade or free agency.
On the Forecheck: preaching the Predators' gospel to the unwashed masses.
by Chris Burton on Jul 13, 2010 2:32 PM EDT up reply actions
I’m totally a member of the Semin fan club, he would definitely bring a lot of offense to the Predators.
I’m not sure the Caps need him next year just because of the price vs other offensive talents, but we will miss his PKing and streaky goals.
Personally, I hope he goes to the Blues which would help their pathetic offense a ton and allow me to see him more.
Proud member of the Popsicle Division of the Cupcake Conference.
Oh, do you live in St. Louis or something? Is that why you would see more of Sasha?
Rocking the Red since 1975
Yea I go to Wash U, and since I’m at school during hockey season I could go see more Sasha if he was a Blue.
Proud member of the Popsicle Division of the Cupcake Conference.
Once upon a time I lived in the St Louis area. I was a Blues fans until the Caps came into existence even though I have moved out of the region. The Blues are my favorite team in the Western Conference even though I was very upset at David Backes when he injured Sasha.
Backes is not all bad, in my opinion. He sounds like a loyal person, at least, even if “tough” on the ice.
Rocking the Red since 1975
Don’t blame Backes for Semin being delicate like a flower. That’s a play that happens a million times a game. It was a love tap at worst. I hate when Caps fans act like that was the biggest act of douchebaggery committed against a Cap. Every single one of us would love it if the Caps managed to get Backes.
I'm gonna pain you dearly Woodhouse, when I peel all your skin off with a flensing knife, sew it into Woodhouse pajamas, and then set those pajamas on fire.
by Steckel Me Elmo on Jul 13, 2010 9:45 PM EDT up reply actions
That’s the nicest thing you’ve ever said about him. I appreciate it. Off the ice there is absolutely nothing you can say against him. On the ice… the Caps could be so lucky.
Sometimes you need a criminal lawyer, sometimes you need a criminal lawyer.
Yeah…you boys could stand to go back to a self imposed, smaller cap limit…
"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
Will be interesting to see how they manage the swap after defensive zone faceoffs.
Who then plays 3C if Staal is playing 2L?
"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
Letestu might step up. If he doesn’t they might use Talbot there. Or maybe sign a UFA, Pens were inquiring on R. Niedermayer before he signed last week.
"Game's the same. Just got more fierce."
Morrison and Belanger are still out there…
"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
Belanger wants 4 years though, right? And probably $2+ million. That’s a no-go for Pittsburgh on both accounts.
If he would take, say $1.5 or $1.75 for a year that would be ideal. But I doubt he’s interested in that.
"Game's the same. Just got more fierce."
I’m pretty sure if he’d have been flexible enough for $1.75 for 1 that he would have re-signed here.
Eat, drink, and be merry! And then drink some more.
I think he’s going to have to come down on both the term and dollar value of his expectations. There’s just not many teams out there with the money and the need for a guy like him.
Bit I doubt he’ll end up under 2.
Morrison might, though.
"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
Morrison doesn’t fit need. The “Staal on wing” experiment isn’t going to last forever, he’ll be the 3C come playoff time.
I think the Pens want a little more blue collar (like a Belanger type) if they were to add a UFA.
"Game's the same. Just got more fierce."
OK, that makes sense to move Staal back to C in the playoffs.
Hell, I might just stand pat right now if I’m Ray Shero. The club as currently configured is a slam dunk to make the playoffs, and Wings are relatively easy to get at the deadline…with some cap room to play with, the Pens could just shop for need at the deadline and see what they can do in the playoffs.
"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 think that’s exactly his mentality. I’d love to see Kariya come in at like $1.5, but that’s probably a pipedream.
So just go to March, see what young players can step up and then try to acquire a better W than Ponikarovsky this time around.
"Game's the same. Just got more fierce."
So just go to March, see what young players can step up and then try to acquire a better
W than PonikarovskyC than Belanger/D than Corvo this time around.
Sounds like two of the best teams in the conference have similar strategies.
Eat, drink, and be merry! And then drink some more.
Yep. As they should too, both 100+ point teams that are hitting their primes with key players locked down for years to come.
If it aint broke..
"Game's the same. Just got more fierce."
If it aint broke…
Trade for a bad contract, sign a dinosaur enforcer for 3 years, price out one of your key players, and sign an inconsistent, soft, and mercurial winger to play on your third line, and don’t address your biggest need?
Sometimes you need a criminal lawyer, sometimes you need a criminal lawyer.
Paul, is that you?
On the Forecheck: preaching the Predators' gospel to the unwashed masses.
by Chris Burton on Jul 13, 2010 1:59 PM EDT up reply actions
OTOH, if it is broke…
…sign a dinosaur enforcer for four years, price out one of your key players, sign an inconsistent and soft third pair defender, and draft a thug, eh?
"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
PaulGlen, is that you?
On the Forecheck: preaching the Predators' gospel to the unwashed masses.
by Chris Burton on Jul 13, 2010 2:04 PM EDT up reply actions
That’s the fact, Jack. Just me and my good pals Steve Eminger and Dan Girardi.
"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
Better than Poniboy…should be doable.
"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
Staal is better on draws (lol), better defensively, and Malkin has the better shot. Malkin to the Wings! seems like the most logical switch if you are going to break up the three headed monster.
Sometimes you need a criminal lawyer, sometimes you need a criminal lawyer.
Some tradeoffs either way, no? Malkin is the better playmaker and passer, but Staal is probably better in the corners and getting to the net, and as you say, better defensively.
"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
Staal is better on draws (lol)
You laugh, but Staal’s % and more importantly his responsibility has gone up every year. Soon he’ll be respectable in that area.
"Game's the same. Just got more fierce."
1) He’s 23. Still a little time to find some offense.
2) He had 22 points in the final 36 games in 2008/2009 when he got bumped up to playing 2C between Havlat and Sharp. He also finished that season with 47 points in 81 games. It wouldn’t be unreasonable to pencil him in for 50+, especially if he’s playing between Semin and Laich.
"Ovechkin, what is good in life?"
"To crush your enemies. To see them driven before you. And to hear the lamentations of their captain."
I was just reading some comments on SCH, and it seems like they have a few options. Huet must be jettisoned for them no matter what. After that, they try to find a taker for Campbell, but that will likely be impossible (given his K and NTC). Assuming they can’t move Campbell, they more or less have to walk from Niemi’s award and/or trade Sharp or Bolland (walking on Niemi alone may not be enough).
If there’s one guy the Hawks fans don’t want to lose based on the comments there, it’s Sharp. But the return on a Sharp trade probably gets them back to elite status faster than any other move, assuming they draft well with all these picks they’ve amassed.
A couple of issues I see here.
Are they really going to “Boyle” Chris Huet? Sign a guy to a big contract, and then exile him to hockey purgatory? Not the best PR.
I don’t see how they can walk from Niemmi. They might get Turco or Theo for cheaper, but not a lot cheaper, and Niemmi is, you know, better, younger, and has long term upside. I can understand that the fans don’t want to part with Sharp, Bolland or Seabrook, and so they’re willing to jettison Huet and Niemmi, but I’m thinking the Chicago FO will look at it differently.
"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
does Chicago have any options besides sending Huet to the AHL? To keep him on the big club, they’re going to have to get rid of some combination of Ballard, Sharp, and Seabrook, and maybe all three.
#savethekittens!
Donation info for SAVES FOR KIDS 2010!! Make a difference.
Same as Nylander with the Caps this season in terms of options…know known NTC or NMC in existence. If they choose to not have him on the team, which seems likely given the cap hit/crunch, playing time, etc., AHL, loan to Europe, suspension if they waive him and he fails to report.
I think you’ve nailed down their options – part with Huet + one of those guys, or part with all those guys and keep Huet.
"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
They have no choice with Huet unless they trade Campbell. They are still marginally f’d even if they do that to Huet. I agree that letting Niemi walk is a very bad idea, but that’s how cap-strapped they are.
I think Bolland is going to be the guy out, but the Hawks will have a decision to make given the likely returns they’d get for Sharp vs. Bolland.
Wasn’t Bolland injured last year? Still, he’s young and he’s been productive and looked promising…
"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
He’s a good player – younger than Sharp, good 3C/checker, maybe 2nd line upside. I’m guessing Bolland was hurt based on his stats, but I don’t know for sure. He’s locked in until 2014 at $3.375 – seems like a lot to pay unless he realizes that upside.
I’d rather have Sharp, and I bet the Hawks would too. But since they’re realistically looking at a year or two before they can be a real contender again, maybe it makes sense to keep Bolland as part of the young core and bring in a few blue-chippers/high picks for Sharp.
He had a back injury last year that required surgery and some significant recovery, and ended up missing half the season.
He’s also 23, though, so he could have some pretty significant upside.
"Ovechkin, what is good in life?"
"To crush your enemies. To see them driven before you. And to hear the lamentations of their captain."
All of this also assumes that they can find 8 or so guys to play at the minimum for this year (and beyond; they are screwed for a few more years after this too). Somehow I doubt they can do that without turning to Kris Beech type wash-ups who’d love a year or two of an NHL paycheck. That would make for one really unbalanced team. Upper class skill, lower class skill, but no middle class.
I don’t see that as likely, they are probably going to have to free up 700-800K per roster slot (even Tyler Sloan makes more than minimum; he should be the sort they go after anyway, but I’m not a GM). That means more than one of those guys you listed will be on the market.
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I think this is a distinct possibility as well, as much as the SCH commentariat don’t want to face it. They’re basically looking at 1-2 F lines and 1 D pair (and at least one goalie) at league minimum deals unless they lose more than one of Sharp, Bolland, and Niemi (again, assuming no Campbell trade). Good thing they won the cup, though it did cost them $4m in cap space due to bonuses.
Yes, my sympathy for their predicament is slim, as they had their glorious moment in the sun; now they’re paying for it.
Campbell has a cap it of $7.1M. That is so obscene I do a double take every time I consider it. There’s just no chance he’s going to get traded.
"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
by fat_daddyo on Jul 13, 2010 11:41 AM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
It’s not even so much the number, but the fact that the deal runs until 2016. Teams that need to make the salary floor might take on Campbell with a big enough bribe (it’d have to be huge), but I don’t see any team taking that on for the next 6 years.
A second surreal facet of that contract.
"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
The Campbell contract is and was always painful. The Huet contract as well.
The playoff performance bonus cushion issues, they won the Cup so such is life.
The failure to issue the QOs and to give 3 players a lot of negotiating leverage a summer ago just added to the cap issues with bigger raises than they would otherwise have received.
And then the offer sheet to Hjalmarsson (smart move and reasonable one IMO by GM Wilson.) A little surprised Chicago matched in terms of the cap issues, but not in the context of watching Hjalmarsson play.
It is interesting to watch as Chicago makes their moves. To date, they seem to have done a good job of getting value in the trades they have made this off-season, picking up prospects like Morin and Vishnevskiy, plus draft picks, etc. Still more moves to go of course.
I assume Reasoner will be traded or waived given his cap hit.
One thing is that I assume they won’t carry a 23 player roster to start the season, more likey 20 or 21 players and use call-ups as necessary.
Right – that’s why I said the numbers were optimistic from Chicago’s standpoint.
I guess I figured there’s no way to conjecture all the possible variables of salary obligations, so I laid out what I thought was the minimum.
As you increase the salary obligations they acquire in their new players, you can just add to the list of established guys they’ll have to let go.
"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
Right, I was just elaborating on the more realistic scenario. They may be better off now than last week when I ran the numbers and they came up 10-15K short of the minimum for the rest of their roster players. Of course that didn’t take Hjalmarsson’s raise into account either.
Man they are effed
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Gotcha. They are way screwed.
Also, so are the Flyers. Which is even better, because their quagmire is/was entirely avoidable. And they haven’t even started to deal with Pronger in horrible decline yet, when he can’t play but his salary can’t come off the books either.
"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
It is amazing how deliberately the Flyers painted themselves into that corner with the Shelley/Zherdev/Meszaros/O’Donnell deals. Helluva D corps, though.
Meszaros…why?
Leighton…why?
It’s mind boggling.
"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
Last year I viewed the Pronger deal as evidence that Holmgren isn’t very bright.
This off season locks that conclusion in.
"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 their capologist has not read the CBA. As frustrating as it can be to watch management stand pat, the PHI and CHI situations make me really glad we have management that can comprehend the system the league operates in
↑ ↑ ↓ ↓ ← → ← → b a (select) start
It was hard to argue with PHI before this off-season because their moves had generally panned out pretty well. The Pronger extension isn’t very good but it got them Pronger on a reasonable cap hit and they went to a SCF. But this off-season has been brutal for Holmgren. Brutal.
Sometimes you need a criminal lawyer, sometimes you need a criminal lawyer.
If I recall correctly, they signed Pronger and were congratulating themselves that the long term brought the cap hit down under $5M, and noted that when he was ready, he could retire and his cap hit would disappear.
When someone pointed out that the 35+ contract meant that he’d be on the books for the duration, they scrambled around and came out with, “yeah, we knew that all along, that’s what we wanted.”
Regarding the frustrations of standing pat, after watching Poti, Pothier and Nylander, I’m awfully skeptical of big, long FA contracts. Like Billy Beane said, you can always recover from the deal you don’t make; you might not recover from a deal you do make.
"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
That’s how I remember the Pronger situation as well. They totally thought they gamed the system and got burned by the fine print. Seeing as the print wasn’t that fine, and it’s directly in the CBA, it’s pretty inexcusable for a front office to make that mistake.
Sometimes you need a criminal lawyer, sometimes you need a criminal lawyer.
IIRC they thought the CBA said “35 at time of signing” when the actual language is “35 when the contract takes effect”.
"Yes, but Rimmer Directive 271 states just as clearly, 'No chance you metal ba****d.'"
Right. But all they had to do was, you know, read the CBA first.
Sometimes you need a criminal lawyer, sometimes you need a criminal lawyer.
We must always remember that we’re talking about Philadelphia and the CBA is not illustrated.
Eat, drink, and be merry! And then drink some more.
by SmallZ827 on Jul 13, 2010 2:02 PM EDT up reply actions 3 recs
Of course they could just field a team of minimum-salary AHL scrubs, who knows. That would be quite sad though
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They could. Might be the best way to go – i.e., get really bad for a couple of years, draft high wiht your own picks, use the picks you’ve acquired well, and then go for it again.
"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
Even if they do that, some of their guys coming in to RFA payday years are going to have to walk, I think. They indicated their reluctance to allow that by not letting Hjalmarsson go, which was a huge mistake I think, unless they have some other sort of plan (doesn’t seem like it).
Perhaps they (and the Flyers) are counting on the cap rules changing in a few years. Something along the lines of “hey, a few of your historically solid teams are hosed for many years by this cap, we have to change something”.
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I was astounded that they kept Hjalmarsson, to tell you the truth.
I hope that the League doesn’t start issuing get-out-of-jail-free cards, just because GM’s are dumb.
"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
Is anything to stop them from trading him still, if all their salary rearrangement plans don’t work out? They had one “bid” of a 1st and 3rd (late in rounds) @ a $3.5M cap figure. Maybe they decide to trade Hjalmarsson later when they can’t make the numbers work, and maybe they only get a 1st (earlier in the round).
They can trade Hjalmarsson now, and he is locked in salary wise for next year anyway.
"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 thought they couldn’t trade a player for a year once they matched the offer sheet
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I stand corrected – belay my last.
"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
Oh, you might be right – my CBA knowledge is full of holes.
"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
Group B clearly needs some work on the basic skills. I haven’t seen Group A do these drills, but based on what I saw yesterday Group A is markedly better.
4th Floor, is next, swimvare, undervare, Eric Fehr...
Group A – Kuznetsov. Eakin, DiSimone, Della Rovere, Orlov, Finley
Group B – Galiev, Johannson
4th Floor, is next, swimvare, undervare, Eric Fehr...
How has DiSimone looked?
Sometimes you need a criminal lawyer, sometimes you need a criminal lawyer.
He didn’t stand out, but I have to admit my eyes when not typing were on Kuz, Fin and Eakin.
4th Floor, is next, swimvare, undervare, Eric Fehr...
Just saw him lumber down the ice. Big kid. Looks slow.
4th Floor, is next, swimvare, undervare, Eric Fehr...
Yesterday, DiSimone looked like one of the better skaters, but his skills didn’t stand out.
"Don't mind WM...he's an all-around jerk."
by Whiter Mage on Jul 13, 2010 12:05 PM EDT up reply actions
Makes sense. He plays on big ice at UNH and was with a Hobey Baker finalist last year, but he never seemed like the most skilled guy to me. I think he has 4C potential if he makes the NHL with a very outside shot at maybe playing 3C.
Sometimes you need a criminal lawyer, sometimes you need a criminal lawyer.
Agree with the overall impression based on day 1, but it was one day and without counting, pretty sure there were a lot more guys that had been at a Caps camp before and more free agent invites in Group B
Caveats:
- Positions not always accurate, but these were the jersey combos yesterday.
- Players sometimes switch groups, etc.
- No handout so mistakes happen
Group A
Red: Cullen, Kuznetsoz, Forfar
White: Woods, Gustafsson, Cherniwchan
Green: DellaRovere, Hauswirth, de Kastrozza
Gray: Wiles, DeSimone, Eakin
Dmen: Bond, Carrier, Finley, Flemming, Jank, Orov, Ruel, Yadlowski
Goalies: Dunn and Holtby
Group B
Red: Miele, Alexander, Pisano
White: Burt, Johansson, Galiev
Green: Mitchell, Bruess MacLeod
Gray: Burke Herbert LeFrancois
Dmen: Cullity, Davis, Lowery, Miskovic, Sotnieks, Spinell, Stevenson, Wey
Goalies: Enzukens, Grubauer, Nelson
by sk84fun_dc on Jul 13, 2010 10:34 AM EDT up reply actions 5 recs
Good list – also, Miele, was at center and was a short and fast guy. I was impressed by him and Pisano, it looked like they’d played together before.
"Don't mind WM...he's an all-around jerk."
by Whiter Mage on Jul 13, 2010 12:07 PM EDT up reply actions
Thanks for the clarification. As I noted, this was not meant to be by position in all cases, just an attempt to get the line combos down while watching, taking pictures, etc., at the same time.
On that line, Miele and Alexander have been teammates before, in the USHL.
(and both are from the state of Michigan.) Miele was the second leading scorer at Miami this season and third a season ago.
Not surprised. Alexander actually looked like the odd man out on the line, surprisingly. I knew it wasn’t by position, just trying to get more stuff out there.
Also Eakin was at center. I wish I’d have paid more attention to Gray B.
"Don't mind WM...he's an all-around jerk."
by Whiter Mage on Jul 13, 2010 12:16 PM EDT up reply actions
Not surprised. Alexander actually looked like the odd man out on the line, surprisingly.
This type of bull is why I’m taking today to nap/sleep.
"Don't mind WM...he's an all-around jerk."
by Whiter Mage on Jul 13, 2010 12:24 PM EDT up reply actions
Couple of requests:
How does Brendan Woods look? Folks thought he would be drafted, and he wasn’t.
How does Groo look? I’d expect him to outplay Enzukens and Nelson in Group B.
Atta dinnin stick a who!
by Gould Old Days on Jul 13, 2010 10:42 AM EDT reply actions
Too me, Gru looked the most solid of the three. The glove needed to be higher. Enzukens seemed to be used the least and he was the goalie who stayed out after practice and let players shoot at him.
(Yes, I know about the avatar hounding - just pretend mine is invisible.)
Who is holding up, and falling back?
"It's good to be compared to great players, great teams. But we're not Oilers, we're Capitals."
~Alex Ovechkin
Same as yesterday, relatively speaking in terms of the ‘herbies’, Group B had a harder times than Group A. Some of the guys like Alexander and Pisano struggled yesterday from I saw. Again, I caveat that with the note that more FA invites in Group B, as well as more guys that are new to a Boudreau (and company) run Dev Camp.
I think its interesting they put Mackan in group B. Good test I think.
"You ever use smelling salts, every time you type a bad blog?" Brooks Laich
by Carl Putnam on Jul 13, 2010 11:26 AM EDT up reply actions
I have agree that there was some serious debating on squads. Mackan was given the short straw because they are most relying on him to make the squad this year. Give him a couple players and see what he can do with an almost severe talent discrepancy. I think its a smart move.
4th Floor, is next, swimvare, undervare, Eric Fehr...
hey all! Live from Kettler today!
Macken and Galiev look really good. Macken is everything you’d expect. Galiev is scrawny. someone give the guy a hamburger.
Burt skated with Macken and Galiev, and he’s very quick.
Stevenson is a good skater.
Buress shows good puck control, although I would expect that of a guy who who already a pro.
MacLeod has wonderful hockey hair.
McPhee watched practice from the balcony above the ice, all evil overlord style. He was on the phone to someone late in practice; we’re all hoping he was telling Flash he’s being shipped to Finland.
Those Herbies looked awful. Just awful. I was gassed watching them.
#savethekittens!
Donation info for SAVES FOR KIDS 2010!! Make a difference.
Too bad we don’t need a top-line or second-line left wing. I’d suggest giving James Neal an offer sheet.
Mike Heika is reporting that the Stars are offering two years, 2.5 million, though Neal is 22 and coming off consecutive 24 and 27 goal seasons. That seems like a bit of an underpayment.
"Ovechkin, what is good in life?"
"To crush your enemies. To see them driven before you. And to hear the lamentations of their captain."
If he accepts that, then Poile has some leverage (between Neal and Latendresse) for Hornqvist. I’d take Hornqvist for 2.5 seven days a week and twice on Sundays.
Good pull, Wheeler.
On the Forecheck: preaching the Predators' gospel to the unwashed masses.
by Chris Burton on Jul 13, 2010 11:30 AM EDT up reply actions
I should have added a s/t to Kukla, actually.
But yeah, either Hornqvist or Neal for that cap hit/salary would be a steal, though Neal has two more years pro experience, is one year younger, and is a good deal bigger than Hornqvist.
"Ovechkin, what is good in life?"
"To crush your enemies. To see them driven before you. And to hear the lamentations of their captain."
Agreed that Neal is the safer bet; but I think Hornqvist is a safe investment despite the small sample size. His game is easily sustainable; meaning that he doesn’t go through hot/cold stretches like Flash or Semin. If he stays healthy, 30 goals a year is entirely reasonable.
On the Forecheck: preaching the Predators' gospel to the unwashed masses.
by Chris Burton on Jul 13, 2010 12:35 PM EDT up reply actions
His game is also prone to injuries because he takes serious abuse. And that’s just from his own teammate.
Sometimes you need a criminal lawyer, sometimes you need a criminal lawyer.
Ha. Its the price you pay for having that weapon from the blueline. Its worth the risk IMO.
I swear Hornqvist gets more face washes than any forward I watched last year. He is incessantly having to be cleared outta the crease, only to get up and do it again.
On the Forecheck: preaching the Predators' gospel to the unwashed masses.
by Chris Burton on Jul 13, 2010 12:54 PM EDT up reply actions
I know, I was teasing. Everyone would take Weber in a heartbeat, and the VAN crew was lusting over him yesterday.
Sometimes you need a criminal lawyer, sometimes you need a criminal lawyer.
I figured; but KhtaD was kinda serious about it the other day.
Link? Here, or at NM?
On the Forecheck: preaching the Predators' gospel to the unwashed masses.
by Chris Burton on Jul 13, 2010 12:57 PM EDT up reply actions
Here, in the post about poaching VAN D.
Sometimes you need a criminal lawyer, sometimes you need a criminal lawyer.
Darn, I missed that activity.
On the Forecheck: preaching the Predators' gospel to the unwashed masses.
by Chris Burton on Jul 13, 2010 1:06 PM EDT up reply actions
Yep. The only choice, really.
On the Forecheck: preaching the Predators' gospel to the unwashed masses.
by Chris Burton on Jul 13, 2010 1:31 PM EDT up reply actions
Who get your A’s? Sullivan and Suter? Or others?
Eat, drink, and be merry! And then drink some more.
Sullivan and Weber wore them full-time last year, and Suter got it exclusively when Arnott or the others were out. I’d be shocked if they don’t move Weber’s A to Suter full-time. I imagine it goes Weber ©, Sully (A), Suter (A), with Legwand or Erat picking it up when a man is down.
On the Forecheck: preaching the Predators' gospel to the unwashed masses.
by Chris Burton on Jul 13, 2010 1:34 PM EDT up reply actions
From “What We’re Reading”… Kyle Beach is a fucking scumbag. I would love to have more guys that are tough to play against, and at least one guy that actually enjoys fighting would be nice, but what the fuck is going on in that guys dome? Maybe that lil’ guy speared him or something behind the play, but how are you going to go whale on a guy in a prospect camp when you have such a huge size advantage and the guy clearly has no interest in fighting you. I understand wanting to open eyes and get management’s attention but you’re a first round pick and they already know it’s part of your game, and more importantly, he’s on your own fucking team.
Apparently he’s not alone, though. SDR’s former teammate Zac Rinaldo apparently boarded another prospect camp attendee after an icing call. Per BSH, he’s been dropping the gloves all week. I have no problem with dropping the gloves at prospect camp, but do it with a guy that is in your weight class and a willing participant. HER v. ADK should be interesting this year. I would be surprised if SDR and Rinaldo don’t drop ’em at least once.
Sometimes you need a criminal lawyer, sometimes you need a criminal lawyer.
Can’t wait to see what SDR does in the A.
"You want to start being part of the Rink? Fine, but more’s expected of you than John/Jane Cap Fan. Carry the cause of informed discussion to the unwashed masses and don’t crap in the yards of other SBN sites if you decide to go over there. They’re passionate about their teams too, no need to troll elsewhere and/or be a sore winner." --BP
I’m not buying that there’s anything one can do re: fisticuffs to get management’s attention. As you said, they have to know that’s part of your MO, that’s why they drafted you. And even if they had been so blind, wouldn’t it be mitigated by the fact that you’re damaging one of their other prospects? It’s mind-boggling.
Although I’m sure if Finley lost his head and started beating the crap out of somebody like Kuznetsov, he’d get a roster spot immediately, since the Caps are so sorely lacking in that department. Right? Or maybe I’m just Out-of-my-head, Fucking, Brainless.
Eat, drink, and be merry! And then drink some more.
by SmallZ827 on Jul 13, 2010 1:10 PM EDT up reply actions 3 recs
I think fighting can get attention if you are a bubble player who is going to have to be a checker/pest type guy. Not a 50 goal scorer first round pick, though.
Sometimes you need a criminal lawyer, sometimes you need a criminal lawyer.
Oh, I agree with you completely, I just had to walk quite a ways to get to my OFB joke.
Eat, drink, and be merry! And then drink some more.
Gotcha, just clarifying my stance on prospect fighting.
Sometimes you need a criminal lawyer, sometimes you need a criminal lawyer.
You’ve got to think, though, that even checker/pest type guys should be weaning themselves off of the fisticuffs, at least in a developmental camp sense, though. Fewer and fewer GMs looking for that skillset and all, right? I can see where it might help to bolster your “toughness” reputation by fighting in the Q or wherever you are in order to earn an invite to camp or be drafted by the Rangers in the first place, but once you’re there I don’t see how there’s any way that beating up on a potential future teammate and one of that very same GM’s assets helps your case at all. Could Beach possibly have told Bowman anything he didn’t already know with those actions, even if he were a checker/pest?
I guess what I’m trying to say is
“That’s a part of his game that’s made him what he is so we don’t want to discourage it. You have to do it at the right time, which I guess is something you can talk to him about.”
(Bowman, from here)
Eat, drink, and be merry! And then drink some more.
Fewer and fewer GMs looking for that skillset and all, right?
I would have thought so but Shelley got 3/1.1 and Boogaard got 4/1.6. McIlrath went 10 because he fights. It seems there are a lot of GMs that still covet that aspect.
Sometimes you need a criminal lawyer, sometimes you need a criminal lawyer.
Holmgren and Sather x 2 and almost universally derided, though. But, you’re right, Boogard shouldn’t care if it’s a genius or an idiot paying him 1.6 for 4, and I certainly wouldn’t, either, if I were in his shoes.
Eat, drink, and be merry! And then drink some more.
I don’t really feel like looking for a link, but Sather said he got Boogaard because he thought King Henrik was getting run too often.
Team toughness, kids.
He spent 4 years in Everett. He’s a Silvertip.
I never travel far....without a little Big Star...
Ron and Fez 11 to 3
by YvonLabresMoustache on Jul 13, 2010 1:37 PM EDT up reply actions
From what I can tell, we do have a guy who enjoys fighting in Jason Chimera.
I really get the impression that the Caps’ coaching staff are kind of down on taking fighting majors. The Caps were in the bottom of the league last year in fighting majors, and will probably continue to be at the bottom of the league for the foreseeable future.
"Ovechkin, what is good in life?"
"To crush your enemies. To see them driven before you. And to hear the lamentations of their captain."
Per @sbaicker, Carcillo has re-signed with the Flyers for a year. No numbers yet.
On the Forecheck: preaching the Predators' gospel to the unwashed masses.
So… does that get them under the cap?
Sometimes you need a criminal lawyer, sometimes you need a criminal lawyer.
I’m gonna go with ‘no’. :P
On the Forecheck: preaching the Predators' gospel to the unwashed masses.
by Chris Burton on Jul 13, 2010 2:07 PM EDT up reply actions
I like Carcillo.
I never travel far....without a little Big Star...
Ron and Fez 11 to 3
by YvonLabresMoustache on Jul 13, 2010 2:14 PM EDT up reply actions
I’ll like him more if he is overpaid.
Sometimes you need a criminal lawyer, sometimes you need a criminal lawyer.
On the Forecheck: preaching the Predators' gospel to the unwashed masses.
by Chris Burton on Jul 13, 2010 2:33 PM EDT up reply actions
I loathe the man, but appreciate his effective-ness.
On the Forecheck: preaching the Predators' gospel to the unwashed masses.
by Chris Burton on Jul 13, 2010 2:17 PM EDT up reply actions
You mean that hit on Carter? Or being benched for the SCF?
Sometimes you need a criminal lawyer, sometimes you need a criminal lawyer.
Ha. Those were humorous, yeah, but I think that while he’s a doucherocket and asshole he does his job and adds a little scoring touch, making him a worthwhile roster player – if you’re Philly.
On the Forecheck: preaching the Predators' gospel to the unwashed masses.
by Chris Burton on Jul 13, 2010 2:28 PM EDT up reply actions
I’m jealous of all his teeth, ha ha ha!!!!!11
/Lambert’d
On the Forecheck: preaching the Predators' gospel to the unwashed masses.
by Chris Burton on Jul 13, 2010 2:34 PM EDT up reply actions
No, I'm jealous of his dance moves
Sometimes you need a criminal lawyer, sometimes you need a criminal lawyer.
by Rob Parker on Jul 13, 2010 2:43 PM EDT up reply actions 8 recs
Oh, shit. That is hysterical.
On the Forecheck: preaching the Predators' gospel to the unwashed masses.
by Chris Burton on Jul 13, 2010 2:44 PM EDT up reply actions
And his driving skills...
Sometimes you need a criminal lawyer, sometimes you need a criminal lawyer.
by Rob Parker on Jul 13, 2010 2:44 PM EDT up reply actions 3 recs
He had me when he was wearing that ridiculous fur coat at the winter classic practice.
I never travel far....without a little Big Star...
Ron and Fez 11 to 3
by YvonLabresMoustache on Jul 13, 2010 2:53 PM EDT up reply actions
Holy shit. Well, in for a penny, in for a pound, I guess.
I guess Holmgren is just assuming that he’ll be able to trade Gagne or Carter and get back under the cap at some point.
But this is weird.
"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
Not sure what kind of return he’d get for Gagne aside from cap relief. Carter on the other hand…?
"When the going gets weird, the weird turn pro"
Gagne is a good player and has an expiring deal after this year, plus he’s supposed to be a quality guy on your team, so he’ll get some value back for him.
"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
Flyers have 23 men under contract, are 2.5m over the cap.
On the Forecheck: preaching the Predators' gospel to the unwashed masses.
And have two backup goalies. They’ve still got work to do and I’m not sure this is going to make them better than they ended last season.
Sometimes you need a criminal lawyer, sometimes you need a criminal lawyer.
They’re definitely better than last year right now, but they won’t be after they trade Gagne and/or Carter.
On the Forecheck: preaching the Predators' gospel to the unwashed masses.
by Chris Burton on Jul 13, 2010 2:54 PM EDT up reply actions
Basically, they’re going to end up swapping Zherdev for Gagne (or Carter), which is a downgrade, no?
They do swap Meszaros for OKT, which is an upgrade, I think.
"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
Not at that salary.
I never travel far....without a little Big Star...
Ron and Fez 11 to 3
by YvonLabresMoustache on Jul 13, 2010 3:03 PM EDT up reply actions
Leaving salary out of it, though, is Meszaros a better player than OKT? My gut says yes, but that’s all I’m basing it on.
"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
Undoubtedly. But he’s and 18-20 minute guy and they needed 12-15. They could have gotten a less talented player, on a lesser contract, and been fine. Like Foster (or Kubina, who is a better player making less than Meszaros). Add in that Meszaros is overpaid and cost a 2nd round pick 2 hours before they could have bid on Michalek et. al. and it makes no sense.
Sometimes you need a criminal lawyer, sometimes you need a criminal lawyer.
Yeah – I’m on board that it’s a charlie foxtrot of the largest order over there.
I was just addressing whether they’re better this year than last, which I think on balance they are worse.
But long term, they’re royally screwed.
"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
The $ and term they gave Hartnell, Timonen and Pronger should doom them in a few years as those players regress.
I keep thinking they are screwed, but they always seem to squirm out of it.
Lately they have been able to squirm out of it, but the reaper will come calling. Look at their farm, they have depleted it by trading away all their first round picks and elite prospects, and they’re going on something like 5 years without a 2nd round pick now. Pronger will decline. Probably not this year, but before that deal is over he won’t be worth the cap hit. Timonen is already on the wrong side of 30. Meszaros is locked up and overpaid. Briere is locked up. They are going to lose a lot of the core they have that makes them formidable now. They’ll be tough to play this year, and we’ll see what happens next off-season. Gagne, Carter, Leino, Giroux are all FA. How much cap space are they really going to have to retain those guys, especially Leino and Giroux?
Sometimes you need a criminal lawyer, sometimes you need a criminal lawyer.
My thoughts exactly. I’d rather have cheap OKT than that albatross of a contract.
There’s a reason Barrie, Koules, and Lawton are no longer employed and/or affiliated by the Tampa Bay Lightning.
I never travel far....without a little Big Star...
Ron and Fez 11 to 3
by YvonLabresMoustache on Jul 13, 2010 3:10 PM EDT up reply actions
/affiliated with
I never travel far....without a little Big Star...
Ron and Fez 11 to 3
by YvonLabresMoustache on Jul 13, 2010 3:10 PM EDT up reply actions
group A review! I know you’ve all been waiting for it.
BUT FIRST! Bruce almost got taken out during the first session, and about two seconds later had a puck wiz by his head. He skated right by me, Ovechwin, kel, terpgirl and her sister, and gave us “I’m not standing over there any more!” much to our delight. He then proceeded to spend group A’s session sitting in the stands.
moving on….
Kuznetsov is the class of this group. Eakin continue to impress with how hard he works. AnGus absolutely does not fight for pucks and appeared to shy away from contact, or at least avoid it. Della Rovere and the rest of his line mates, on the other hand, we’re more than happy to make a little contact.
We got a kick out of Finley trying to communicate with his d-partner for the day, Orlov. And the fact that they have a massive height difference.
DeSimone seems to fall alot, and I can’t figure out why.
After practice, Kuznetsov, Orlov, and AnGus played monkey in the middle, passing the puck. Kuznetsov “won” since he never ended up in the middle.
Stan Galiev was rocking the Georgetown popped collar look.
Ovechwin took lots of pictures and posted them to her twitetr account. Be sure to check out “Emo GMGM.”
#savethekittens!
Donation info for SAVES FOR KIDS 2010!! Make a difference.
Nate may have some insight into why Finley had trouble talking to Orlov:
@nateewell Joe Finley to the Russians; “Como estas?”
about 2 hours ago via UberTwitter
"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
New sig!
Joe Finley to the Russians; "Como estas?"
by Steck It Out on Jul 13, 2010 3:59 PM EDT up reply actions 2 recs
Who is the dude in white?
Sometimes you need a criminal lawyer, sometimes you need a criminal lawyer.
by Rob Parker on Jul 13, 2010 3:33 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
Who’s who in this crowd? I see OW, kello, RB, and Terp; who are the other two?
by DrinkingPartner on Jul 13, 2010 3:35 PM EDT up reply actions
she’s not a crazy cat lady and she’s a member here.
#savethekittens!
Donation info for SAVES FOR KIDS 2010!! Make a difference.
You calling me a crazy cat lady?
"It's always good to have vikings."
Proud member of the Oxford dictionary police.
Ohhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh, I see.
by DrinkingPartner on Jul 13, 2010 4:01 PM EDT up reply actions
Nah, I don’t hit dudes in glasses.
Sometimes you need a criminal lawyer, sometimes you need a criminal lawyer.
I’ll keep that in mind. Looks like you and me are safe, DP!
On the Forecheck: preaching the Predators' gospel to the unwashed masses.
by Chris Burton on Jul 13, 2010 3:38 PM EDT up reply actions
*You and I, rather.
On the Forecheck: preaching the Predators' gospel to the unwashed masses.
by Chris Burton on Jul 13, 2010 3:39 PM EDT up reply actions
I only pick on people my own size, so yea, probably for the best.
Twitter!!!1
Reppin' Team Tyler yo.
Sorry, I laughed.
The Jeff Schultz bandwagon: new passengers increasing plus/minus since 2009!
by Steck It Out on Jul 13, 2010 3:58 PM EDT up reply actions
:(
Joe Finley to the Russians: "Como estas?"
by Steck It Out on Jul 13, 2010 4:53 PM EDT up reply actions
We have a rapport!!!1
Umm…uhhh…T-Sloan fo sho?!
Joe Finley to the Russians: "Como estas?"
by Steck It Out on Jul 13, 2010 4:57 PM EDT up reply actions
Well, the effort was there!
Quick question, btw: how was Herbert (#72) at devo camp? Did he stand out at all? How has he done?
Joe Finley to the Russians: "Como estas?"
by Steck It Out on Jul 13, 2010 5:03 PM EDT up reply actions
A friend of mine said he had trouble staying on his feet yesterday. But you know, that ice is slippery…
Falling on his own or with contact? I can understand contact because he’s young and physically immature, but he’s supposed to be a good skater.
Sometimes you need a criminal lawyer, sometimes you need a criminal lawyer.
I don’t recall him doing a Bambi-on-ice impression today. DeSimone, on the other hand…
#savethekittens!
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That’s a surprise too, because he’s supposed to be a good skater.
Sometimes you need a criminal lawyer, sometimes you need a criminal lawyer.
his splats were early in the session, and then he seemed ok. Maybe it was just nerves?
#savethekittens!
Donation info for SAVES FOR KIDS 2010!! Make a difference.
Meh. I didn’t find anything funny about the original comment and feel I have a right to stick up for myself.
Twitter!!!1
Reppin' Team Tyler yo.
I’m just busting chops. Didn’t mean to really offend you. Sorry.
Sometimes you need a criminal lawyer, sometimes you need a criminal lawyer.
Was waiting for you to rejoin with “don’t forget your purse, Larry!”
I think she’s just teasing about being annoyed.
"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
You didn’t piss me off because we have a rapport, I give you shit, you give me shit. This person and I obviously don’t and didn’t appreciate his adding in, basically just being a dick.
Twitter!!!1
Reppin' Team Tyler yo.
by Ovechwin on Jul 13, 2010 5:30 PM EDT via mobile up reply actions
Didn’t mean to harm – sorry if I did.
Joe Finley to the Russians: "Como estas?"
by Steck It Out on Jul 13, 2010 5:08 PM EDT up reply actions
Meh.
Twitter!!!1
Reppin' Team Tyler yo.
by Ovechwin on Jul 13, 2010 5:40 PM EDT via mobile up reply actions
You can clearly see a purse there. Either it’s Ovechwin or Larry Murphy
Atta dinnin stick a who!
by Gould Old Days on Jul 13, 2010 4:16 PM EDT up reply actions 2 recs
Sitting behind you guys, I look totally miserable there. What the hell was I thinking?
"It's always good to have vikings."
Proud member of the Oxford dictionary police.
I hate me in glasses. Even more I hate pictures of me in glasses.
Twitter!!!1
Reppin' Team Tyler yo.
Nah, those are hot for teacher glasses…y’know, the good kind.
"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
You rocking my favorite jersey there?
"You ever use smelling salts, every time you type a bad blog?" Brooks Laich
Just checking. How did he look today? Showing some skill along with the physicality?
"You ever use smelling salts, every time you type a bad blog?" Brooks Laich
I thought so. He obviously isn’t the most talented but he holds his own. I was impressed with his compete level on the 5 on 5s. I’m biased though.
Twitter!!!1
Reppin' Team Tyler yo.
I’ve got the same bias, so I’m all for it.
"You ever use smelling salts, every time you type a bad blog?" Brooks Laich
Eakin?
"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
No, I’m the Eakin-ist, and I’m missing camp until Saturday. They mean Della Rovere.
by CapitalCentre on Jul 13, 2010 5:00 PM EDT up reply actions
I can get on board with an SDR lobby. I’m hoping that kid pans out.
Same with an Eakin lobby. Anyone that goofy looking deserves to make it.
"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
He he has hockey chops, but he really is goofy looking. Like Addison H. posted yesterday:
Urban legend: gingers dont show up in mirrors or pictures. BUSTED: http://bit.ly/bZZj6h
by CapitalCentre on Jul 13, 2010 5:20 PM EDT up reply actions
that hair is going to clash so badly with red jerseys.
#savethekittens!
Donation info for SAVES FOR KIDS 2010!! Make a difference.
tomorrow! Are you coming to scrimmage in the afternoon?
#savethekittens!
Donation info for SAVES FOR KIDS 2010!! Make a difference.
we didn’t ask to have today’s historic event photograph, but sometimes, that’s how these things go!
I’m crossing my fingers that tomorrow will work out for me. I might be teaching trampoline tomorrow at 3:45, which would suck.
#savethekittens!
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care to do an identification of those in the picture for those of us not up on all the rink rabbits…
Just trying to capture the spirit of the thing...
by dcsportsfan1 on Jul 13, 2010 3:44 PM EDT up reply actions
I’m in the red sweatshirt with the red hair, looking off to the side.
#savethekittens!
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You’re not Chuck Klosterman at all. Liar.
by bilspacecadet on Jul 13, 2010 4:42 PM EDT up reply actions
I told you I had the wrong plumbing to be Chuck Klosterman!
#savethekittens!
Donation info for SAVES FOR KIDS 2010!! Make a difference.
and, hey, I’m way prettier.
#savethekittens!
Donation info for SAVES FOR KIDS 2010!! Make a difference.
You don’t know which way I swing. Whoa, did I say that out loud? This is suddenly OT….
by bilspacecadet on Jul 13, 2010 4:44 PM EDT up reply actions
Front (L – R): Ovechwin, kellobello
Middle: ??, terpgrl, RedBirdie
Back: ??
I think.
"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
the middle unknown is terp’s little sister, and in the back is gfcaps fan.
#savethekittens!
Donation info for SAVES FOR KIDS 2010!! Make a difference.
Random observations from this morning:
I admit to not being able to discern much of anything watching a bunch of kids skating drills. The only think that sort of stood out to me was the difference between the guys who played professionally last year, and everyone else.
Group B warming up, Johansson skated a few laps chatting with Bruce; like buttering up the teacher. I thought it was cute.
I forgot to bring a printout of the players (nothing like leaving it on the printer), so I had trouble following who was whom, other than focusing on the bigger names, who of course looked like they belonged. I did watch Woods’ kid a little, and he didn’t seem terribly out of place to me, but what do I know? Same for Chris Bond, the local kid, although I could definitely see a bit of a difference for him.
Random questions — is there any rhyme or reason for how they pair up the players, or does it rotate during the week? And is there any real value for a kid like Holtby, who spend the year in Hershey, to be here?
"It's always good to have vikings."
Proud member of the Oxford dictionary police.
I have no idea how they make the pairs. I do think there is value for Holtby because he’s going to get more time with the coaches and he’ll get to show BB a little bit of what he can do. He’s not going to really be challenged like he was in the AHL, but getting a chance to show your goods without Neuvith and Varlamov will be nice. Plus, it’s a chance to start getting his eyes used to the surgery.
Sometimes you need a criminal lawyer, sometimes you need a criminal lawyer.
I also wanted to point out that we spent most of this morning doubled over in laughter from Addison’s story about Chris Bond and his mom. If you haven’t read Addison’s coverage of day 1, or seen his pics, on RMNB, go!
#savethekittens!
Donation info for SAVES FOR KIDS 2010!! Make a difference.
That story killed me – made me go “awwwwww!” and then email it to many different people, it was so damn cute. Poor kid!
Chris Bond is keeping a blog for dev camp. Somehow that story was not reported by him, LOL.
http://topekaroadrunners.pointstreaksites.com/view/topekaroadrunners/news/bondo-s-blog
My youngest son is in the ColdRush skating class at Kettler on Monday mornings at 8. Chris Bond normally is one of their coaches. The kids were pretty excited when the players started walking over from the dressing (they were on the other side) and Wendy Marco told them about Chris not being with them because he would be at development camp. She also taught Patrick Cullen.
And what is it with the Russians and some of their shorts? I saw Galiev walk in initially in tight jean shorts down to the knees; was reminiscent of the capri style that Ovi & Sasha sometimes wear. Is that popular on men in Russian or Europe?
So you have several pairs?
Sometimes you need a criminal lawyer, sometimes you need a criminal lawyer.
Man crocs = acceptable
Manpris = no frickin’ way.
"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
Co-sign.
On the Forecheck: preaching the Predators' gospel to the unwashed masses.
by Chris Burton on Jul 13, 2010 4:46 PM EDT up reply actions
Cosine?
"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
Yes, because this part of the thread is a somewhat OT tangent.
Eat, drink, and be merry! And then drink some more.
by SmallZ827 on Jul 13, 2010 4:52 PM EDT up reply actions 2 recs
Sorry, but neither is acceptable.
"You ever use smelling salts, every time you type a bad blog?" Brooks Laich
Thumbs down on man crocs? Gonna have to get a ruling on that one.
"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
Dorky plastic shoes don’t look good an any mammal.
"You ever use smelling salts, every time you type a bad blog?" Brooks Laich
But cloth ones are full of win...
Sometimes you need a criminal lawyer, sometimes you need a criminal lawyer.
by Rob Parker on Jul 13, 2010 4:52 PM EDT up reply actions 6 recs
::sniffle::
My mom says they’re very stylish. And reassures me that I’m not a dork.
"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
Not a croc fan at all either. They are about the ugliest things ever made to put on feet. They all should be planted in a flowerbed in The Netherlands.
But they’re so comfy!
I wear mine at least 3-4 days a week.
"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
Are they? I have heard that. I have to admit to never trying them on because I can’t get past how they look. I had some ugly clogs in high school, but crocs just are in another dimension. I do believe in foot comfort, but I go for huaraches.
I assume they must be really comfy because they look so stupid but so many people wear them.
Sometimes you need a criminal lawyer, sometimes you need a criminal lawyer.
And RMNB just tweeted a pic of Orlov in the manpris. I am pretty sure he was walking with Galiev yesterday morning because it looked like Orlov in this picture.
More like footy pajamas.
Sometimes you need a criminal lawyer, sometimes you need a criminal lawyer.
True, but now we’re getting into SME’s specialty.
Sometimes you need a criminal lawyer, sometimes you need a criminal lawyer.