Friday Caps Clips: Caps @ Devils Game Day

by EmilyB on Dec 23, 2011 6:39 AM EST in Caps Clips

Your savory breakfast links:

Previews of tonight's rematch at the Rock from Vogs, NHL.com, Peerless, CB, Sick Unbelievable, hockey yelling, CRtC and RMNB, and be sure to check out our SB Nation partner In Lou We Trust for more coverage from the other side of tonight's match-up.
Notes and assorted whatnot from yesterday's practice at Kettler:
- In general. [Caps365 video (Hunter, Hendricks, Backstrom, Ward, Hamrlik), 106.7 The Fan, RtR]
- Practice jersey colors come and go, but the lines remain the same. [WaPo, WashTimes, DCEx]
- Mike Green continues to work towards his return. [CSNW, WashTimes]
- Michal Neuvirth gets the nod again tonight ... [WaPo (and again), CSNW]
- ... which leaves Tomas Vokoun on the bench, a place where he is not accustomed to find himself. [DCEx, CSNW]
- Every pundit gets one last swing at Dale Hunter's contract. [CSNW (and again), WashTimes, DCEx, Puck Daddy, WaPo]
S.O.B. scoring is sweet... [WashTimes]
... as is Sasha Semin scoring all on his own. If only it wasn't so darn fluky. [SI]
A look at the Hunter/Johnson defensive system. [Frankovic]
Big-picture musings on Stanley Cup champions past. Short version: Caps need to step it up right about ... now. [Peerless]
#fancystats for the Caps' defensive pairings. [WaPo]
And speaking of which, that Karl Alzner contract is looking pretty good. [OFB]
Who's the smrtst guy in the Caps' dressing room? The answers probably won't surprise you. But they may amuse you. [DC Sports Bog]
Back to the netminders, a vote for #TeamCaps. [Sick, Unbelievable]
All Coach Hunter wants for Christmas is ... [Washingtonian]
Dan Steinberg told us Neuvy was an elf. Here's proof. [Caps Outsider]
Finally, happy 29th birthday, ShaMo.

Tweet Comment 170 comments | 0 recs |

Do you like this story?

Comments

I can pretty much identify all the Caps by face, but I’m not sure I recognize that guy in the photo. What was he, a one game call-up?

This may be more suitable for the OTOT, but Halpy Holidays to all and be safe.
Peace on Earth, Good Will to Men (except Jagr).

I don't always drink beer...

by Acer Jonesy's Laughker on Dec 23, 2011 6:51 AM EST reply actions

The note of it being Shaone Morrisonn’s 29th birthday reminds me of events from 3 years ago — of the game since dubbed “MIracle on 32nd Street” when the Caps were in NY and fell behind 4-0 to the NY Rangers. But tied it up in the 3rd (with Ovi getting the game tying goal) and won it in OT thanks to birthday boy, Shaone Morrisonn, who was Green’s defensive partner at the time.

And MSG is only 2 blocks away from that iconic Macys’

Rocking the Red for teams on the banks of the Potomac and at the Gateway Arch and Singing the Blues about Hockey.

by CapsFan75 on Dec 23, 2011 7:34 AM EST reply actions

What a game. Fun to read our recap (we used to post ’em next morning?!) and the GDOT (only 182 comments total?!).

Also, these were the Caps lines that night:

Ovechkin-Backstrom-Kozlov
Fleischmann-Laich-A. Gordon
Giroux-Nylander-Fehr
Steckel-Gordon-Bradley

Jurcina-Alzner
Morrisonn-Collins
Sloan-Helmer

Theodore
Johnson

Nice blueline (and the forwards were no picnic either).

Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world

by J.P. on Dec 23, 2011 8:11 AM EST up reply actions

Wow…just looking at that lineup makes me really optimistic about this current group…haha

by OvechkinGR8 on Dec 23, 2011 8:15 AM EST up reply actions

I miss the “Red Jesus and Friends” days.

Now where's my hat? I'm going to the outhouse.
We don't have an outhouse
.....My tool shed!!!
Box Seats Blog
Twitter
Ron and Fez 11 to 3

by YvonLabresMoustache on Dec 23, 2011 8:18 AM EST up reply actions

The D-pairing of Karl Alzner and Milan Jurcina struggled early (and often, really), combining for a minus-six rating and minus-21 Corsi Rating.

/slow whistle

Now where's my hat? I'm going to the outhouse.
We don't have an outhouse
.....My tool shed!!!
Box Seats Blog
Twitter
Ron and Fez 11 to 3

by YvonLabresMoustache on Dec 23, 2011 8:19 AM EST up reply actions

You can see why Alex Giroux scores a lot of goals in the AHL – he cherry picks and had a wide array of not-ready-for-primetime moves that probably work on crappy minor league netminders.

I didn’t hold back back then, did I?

Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world

by J.P. on Dec 23, 2011 8:23 AM EST up reply actions

000

I look back then at the number of comments and such and am amazed that the fanbase and blog community have grown so much. It’s a tribute to all of your guys’ hard work here.

Also, this:

Now where's my hat? I'm going to the outhouse.
We don't have an outhouse
.....My tool shed!!!
Box Seats Blog
Twitter
Ron and Fez 11 to 3

by YvonLabresMoustache on Dec 23, 2011 8:27 AM EST up reply actions

Kathryn Tappen’s come along way…

Cross check and all call.

by bigonetimer on Dec 23, 2011 8:37 AM EST up reply actions

Apparently she’s married to a guy in the Devils system. Huh.

Now where's my hat? I'm going to the outhouse.
We don't have an outhouse
.....My tool shed!!!
Box Seats Blog
Twitter
Ron and Fez 11 to 3

by YvonLabresMoustache on Dec 23, 2011 8:41 AM EST up reply actions

Whee.

Now where's my hat? I'm going to the outhouse.
We don't have an outhouse
.....My tool shed!!!
Box Seats Blog
Twitter
Ron and Fez 11 to 3

by YvonLabresMoustache on Dec 23, 2011 8:42 AM EST up reply actions

__

That’s former Cap Stephen Leach’s nephew, IIRC.

Also, it’d be funnier if it was the other Jay Leach.

Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world

by J.P. on Dec 23, 2011 8:46 AM EST up reply actions

Yes, Steve is his uncle, but the Caps former asst coach Jay Leach is an uncle, too. Same Leach family.

by sk84fun_dc on Dec 23, 2011 2:10 PM EST up reply actions

Take that, Sir Isaac Newton…

Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world

by J.P. on Dec 23, 2011 8:39 AM EST up reply actions

It bothers me how much Feds looks like Bono in that picture.

Now where's my hat? I'm going to the outhouse.
We don't have an outhouse
.....My tool shed!!!
Box Seats Blog
Twitter
Ron and Fez 11 to 3

by YvonLabresMoustache on Dec 23, 2011 8:43 AM EST up reply actions

It bothers me how much he looks like Corey Haim, or the other Corey – never could keep them straight, nor did I care to

I'll never put on a life jacket again

by NJNJ on Dec 23, 2011 8:59 AM EST up reply actions

Boutros Boutros Gali!

Patron saint of quality footwear.

by fat_daddyo on Dec 23, 2011 11:24 AM EST up reply actions

in the GDT, this also happened:

Btw, hate to say it but… I wouldn’t mind having Sami Lepisto right now.
Japers’ Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
by J.P. on Dec 23, 2008 9:08 PM EST reply actions

You tried your best and failed miserably. The lesson is "Never Try."

by apk3000 on Dec 23, 2011 8:27 AM EST up reply actions

Jurcina-Alzner
Morrisonn-Collins
Sloan-Helmer

Sami Lepisto was and is better than at least half of those guys.

Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world

by J.P. on Dec 23, 2011 8:29 AM EST up reply actions

5 out of the 6, I’d say.

Now where's my hat? I'm going to the outhouse.
We don't have an outhouse
.....My tool shed!!!
Box Seats Blog
Twitter
Ron and Fez 11 to 3

by YvonLabresMoustache on Dec 23, 2011 8:30 AM EST up reply actions

I wouldn’t disagree.

Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world

by J.P. on Dec 23, 2011 8:34 AM EST up reply actions

True, but you actually said it because Laich was on the PP point.

You tried your best and failed miserably. The lesson is "Never Try."

by apk3000 on Dec 23, 2011 8:30 AM EST up reply actions

At least I’ve consistently been anti-Laich-on-the point…

Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world

by J.P. on Dec 23, 2011 8:31 AM EST up reply actions

You were anti-Laich-on-the point before it was cool.

Now where's my hat? I'm going to the outhouse.
We don't have an outhouse
.....My tool shed!!!
Box Seats Blog
Twitter
Ron and Fez 11 to 3

by YvonLabresMoustache on Dec 23, 2011 8:33 AM EST up reply actions

I’m such a hipster that I think the current uniforms are awful and the throwbacks are just as bad – give me the blue ones with the screaming eagle AND the diagonal “Capitals.”

Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world

by J.P. on Dec 23, 2011 8:35 AM EST up reply actions

I would eschew all those models for the Bill Clement paint jersey.

Now where's my hat? I'm going to the outhouse.
We don't have an outhouse
.....My tool shed!!!
Box Seats Blog
Twitter
Ron and Fez 11 to 3

by YvonLabresMoustache on Dec 23, 2011 8:39 AM EST up reply actions

White pants or bust!

by discuit on Dec 23, 2011 10:04 AM EST up reply actions

Feds chooses the latter.

Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world

by J.P. on Dec 23, 2011 10:05 AM EST up reply actions 3 recs

I honestly wasn’t a big fan of his trade to Phoenix, but I guess we’ll have to wait and see how Herbert turns out to judge it.

The scary part is that I don't even know if I'm being sarcastic or not

by The Moose on Dec 23, 2011 9:07 AM EST up reply actions

SIVNTBTYAI – I got nothing. Must’ve been an inside joke before my time here.

You perhaps knew me better as "Your Nation's Capital." Same great commentary, now with 100% more transparency!

by EmilyB on Dec 23, 2011 8:18 AM EST up reply actions 1 recs

No Green or Poti? Some things never change…

You tried your best and failed miserably. The lesson is "Never Try."

by apk3000 on Dec 23, 2011 8:21 AM EST up reply actions

Poti: Groin, day-to-day. → Missed 15 games (groin).
Green: Shoulder injury, day-to-day. → Missed 2 games (shoulder injury).

Luckily, both guys are fully healed from both ailments three years later…

Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world

by J.P. on Dec 23, 2011 8:26 AM EST up reply actions

Hey, Green’s shoulder is fine!

"The Caps fan doesn't say, 'is the glass half full' or 'is the glass half empty'. He wonders when the glass is going to spill."

by gfcaps fan on Dec 23, 2011 8:53 AM EST up reply actions

Also, was the shoulder from the Pronger hit?

"The Caps fan doesn't say, 'is the glass half full' or 'is the glass half empty'. He wonders when the glass is going to spill."

by gfcaps fan on Dec 23, 2011 8:53 AM EST up reply actions

Yeah, it was late Nov. 2008.

Man, he locks in on Green early. Like at the blueline.

Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world

by J.P. on Dec 23, 2011 8:57 AM EST up reply actions

If it wasn’t for the fact that the concussion appears to be a potentially serious life-changer, I wouldn’t have any sympathy for Pronger’s series of injuries in the past year or so.

"The Caps fan doesn't say, 'is the glass half full' or 'is the glass half empty'. He wonders when the glass is going to spill."

by gfcaps fan on Dec 23, 2011 9:01 AM EST up reply actions

That’s SO fucking sinister. Just tracks him all the way like a predator.

Now where's my hat? I'm going to the outhouse.
We don't have an outhouse
.....My tool shed!!!
Box Seats Blog
Twitter
Ron and Fez 11 to 3

by YvonLabresMoustache on Dec 23, 2011 9:01 AM EST up reply actions

Yep. You can see the wolf smacking his lips as the unsuspecting fawn meanders along in exactly the path he knew he’d take.

Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world

by J.P. on Dec 23, 2011 9:05 AM EST up reply actions

Forget Tyrann Mathieu, Christopher Pronger is The Honey Badger (or was).

Now where's my hat? I'm going to the outhouse.
We don't have an outhouse
.....My tool shed!!!
Box Seats Blog
Twitter
Ron and Fez 11 to 3

by YvonLabresMoustache on Dec 23, 2011 9:10 AM EST up reply actions

Another wolf hunting for prey

Cross check and all call.

by bigonetimer on Dec 23, 2011 9:15 AM EST up reply actions

If he played today, I wonder how often Stevens would be suspended.

"The Caps fan doesn't say, 'is the glass half full' or 'is the glass half empty'. He wonders when the glass is going to spill."

by gfcaps fan on Dec 23, 2011 9:16 AM EST up reply actions

Related, how many games do you think Huntsy would get for this?

Now where's my hat? I'm going to the outhouse.
We don't have an outhouse
.....My tool shed!!!
Box Seats Blog
Twitter
Ron and Fez 11 to 3

by YvonLabresMoustache on Dec 23, 2011 9:20 AM EST up reply actions

Fewer than he’d get for this.

Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world

by J.P. on Dec 23, 2011 9:25 AM EST up reply actions

Probably fewer than this one too.

Now where's my hat? I'm going to the outhouse.
We don't have an outhouse
.....My tool shed!!!
Box Seats Blog
Twitter
Ron and Fez 11 to 3

by YvonLabresMoustache on Dec 23, 2011 9:27 AM EST up reply actions

At least Dale didn’t like to get his elbows up.

Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world

by J.P. on Dec 23, 2011 9:29 AM EST up reply actions

He also preferred chest protectors made out of pegboard.

Now where's my hat? I'm going to the outhouse.
We don't have an outhouse
.....My tool shed!!!
Box Seats Blog
Twitter
Ron and Fez 11 to 3

by YvonLabresMoustache on Dec 23, 2011 9:35 AM EST up reply actions

Perhaps I’m just biased, and old, but my take on Stevens is he was generally a clean hitter. But in addressing your thought, I’d say he’d take a couple calls from Shanny per year.

Cross check and all call.

by bigonetimer on Dec 23, 2011 9:26 AM EST up reply actions

Since I’m a latecomer to the game, my most vivid memory of him is decking Paul Kariya in the 2003 Cup final. Definitely would have been kicked out of the game today.

"The Caps fan doesn't say, 'is the glass half full' or 'is the glass half empty'. He wonders when the glass is going to spill."

by gfcaps fan on Dec 23, 2011 9:34 AM EST up reply actions

There was that highlight of him that was shown for years and years and years of him when the Caps hitting someone from Calgary, and the guy’s glove flying like 30 feet in the air behind him.

Now where's my hat? I'm going to the outhouse.
We don't have an outhouse
.....My tool shed!!!
Box Seats Blog
Twitter
Ron and Fez 11 to 3

by YvonLabresMoustache on Dec 23, 2011 9:36 AM EST up reply actions

/should be “with the Caps”

Now where's my hat? I'm going to the outhouse.
We don't have an outhouse
.....My tool shed!!!
Box Seats Blog
Twitter
Ron and Fez 11 to 3

by YvonLabresMoustache on Dec 23, 2011 9:36 AM EST up reply actions

Stevens hit players legally by the rules at the time. That is different than clean in my mind. One need not hit players illegally to be a dirty player.

Release the Mackan!

by Killer_Carlson on Dec 23, 2011 1:52 PM EST up reply actions

I recall that the Caps had a ton of injuries during the Nov & Dec time frame of that year including, of course, Green & Poti. Morrisonn was injured earlier but obviously back for that game. But Schultz was also out, along with Oisk.
And, among the forwards, Semin & Fedorov were also injured.

Despite all the injuries, the Caps actually did well. They had lost the game immediately before that Rangers game by a large score but that followed a winning streak of about 6 games. And, IIRC, this game started another streak. Folks were praising the Caps since the Hershey callups were stepping in and doing pretty well.

Rocking the Red for teams on the banks of the Potomac and at the Gateway Arch and Singing the Blues about Hockey.

by CapsFan75 on Dec 23, 2011 6:14 PM EST up reply actions

That GDOT is hilarious to read, especially because I remember that game pretty vividly and the running commentary there is pretty much what was going through my head at the time…what a game. Might have to watch that one again this weekend.

The definition of being a Caps fan is watching the same team over and over and expecting different results.

by Becca H on Dec 23, 2011 9:20 AM EST up reply actions

Man oh man, I’m going to have to go find the highlights now.

"The Caps fan doesn't say, 'is the glass half full' or 'is the glass half empty'. He wonders when the glass is going to spill."

by gfcaps fan on Dec 23, 2011 9:31 AM EST up reply actions

I was holding my newborn niece when ShaMo hit that game winner. Baby nearly went flying.

Pledge Drive 2011-2012: CARSON KOLZIG FOUNDATION! Season Pledge total--$718.07!

by RedBirdie on Dec 23, 2011 9:36 AM EST up reply actions

Ha! I was holding my newborn niece when Green scored on OT GWG against Carolina a few years ago – all I remember thinking was “don’t throw the baby…DON’T THROW THE BABY”.

The definition of being a Caps fan is watching the same team over and over and expecting different results.

by Becca H on Dec 23, 2011 9:51 AM EST up reply actions

but the babies are the perfect size for tossing up in the air!

Pledge Drive 2011-2012: CARSON KOLZIG FOUNDATION! Season Pledge total--$718.07!

by RedBirdie on Dec 23, 2011 10:00 AM EST up reply actions

They love the tossing part. It’s hitting the ground that’s the problem.

Knuble: "I am what I am. I play well with good players."

On his milestone: "It's going to be like unwrapping a birthday present. Then the day after you're kind of like [sighs]....Now you just have to keep going."

by capsyoungguns on Dec 23, 2011 10:05 AM EST up reply actions

and Andrew Gordon’s NHL debut

by sk84fun_dc on Dec 23, 2011 9:21 AM EST up reply actions

Heading to the Game

Anyone else going to be in NJ tonight?

Look at me, Dustin! I'm a F%^king Icon!

by highslot84 on Dec 23, 2011 7:39 AM EST reply actions

This is a litte..... ok a LOT OT but ...

Gotta give Grandma props ….
http://www.ebaumsworld.com/video/watch/82128246/

Be Utterly Facinating @ http://www.thirstdc.com

by TheFuryUnleashed on Dec 23, 2011 7:46 AM EST reply actions 1 recs

It’s hockey – on-topic enough for a Clips thread.

Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world

by J.P. on Dec 23, 2011 7:55 AM EST up reply actions

I wouldnt be surprised shes Semins maw maw.

What doesnt kill you makes you stronger.

by BetterOffWith28 on Dec 23, 2011 9:46 AM EST via mobile up reply actions

Couldn’t see that video, but the title reminds me of a time, at the Cap Center, when a 5yo won an RV during the period break. They let the whole family shoot, parents both missed badly, and the kid couldn’t even get it to the net. So they let the kid try again from closer; still couldn’t get there. Moved him up again, and he hit the barely-more-than-puck-sized hole.

Geeks of All Nations, Compile!

by AMusingFool on Dec 23, 2011 1:50 PM EST up reply actions

I highly recommend Ed’s piece from above to everyone. Good stuff from Alzner, Hamrlik and Perreault on the defensive system.

Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world

by J.P. on Dec 23, 2011 8:04 AM EST reply actions 1 recs

Seconded. Great piece and the first and so far only writer to actually explain what the system changes are.

You perhaps knew me better as "Your Nation's Capital." Same great commentary, now with 100% more transparency!

by EmilyB on Dec 23, 2011 8:28 AM EST up reply actions

Also, the note on the importance of D’s communicating is a big one… and perhaps another reasonable knock against Schultz, a noted deaf mute.

Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world

by J.P. on Dec 23, 2011 8:30 AM EST up reply actions

I was at a charity hockey game for Booz Allen, and some bigwig in a suit ended up sitting next to us for a while regaling us with stories about Schultz. Apparently knows him pretty well and goes golfing with him and his dad all the time. The guy never really shut up the entire time he was there, so I can guess why he would have liked the Schultzes so much.

Now where's my hat? I'm going to the outhouse.
We don't have an outhouse
.....My tool shed!!!
Box Seats Blog
Twitter
Ron and Fez 11 to 3

by YvonLabresMoustache on Dec 23, 2011 8:32 AM EST up reply actions

goes golfing with him and his dad all the time.

/Mostly in April and May

I don't always drink beer...

by Acer Jonesy's Laughker on Dec 23, 2011 9:11 AM EST up reply actions

Ouch :(

Now where's my hat? I'm going to the outhouse.
We don't have an outhouse
.....My tool shed!!!
Box Seats Blog
Twitter
Ron and Fez 11 to 3

by YvonLabresMoustache on Dec 23, 2011 9:15 AM EST up reply actions

I’ve noted in past years that with this group of D, especially the younger guys, that is doesn’t look like they do much in the way of verbal communication during a shift. Always surprises me with Green, Carlson and Alzner, in particular, since they played in Hershey with some older dmen who were greta about on-ice communication, in particular, Dean Arsene, but also Helmer.

by sk84fun_dc on Dec 23, 2011 9:28 AM EST up reply actions

IIRC, Hannan commented on it soon upon arrival.

Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world

by J.P. on Dec 23, 2011 9:29 AM EST up reply actions

Related.

Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world

by J.P. on Dec 23, 2011 9:31 AM EST up reply actions

Yes, I recall that, too.

by sk84fun_dc on Dec 23, 2011 9:32 AM EST up reply actions

So true. I had been looking for clues in the players’ interviews on how Hunter’s and Johnson’s man-on-man system works, but this is the clearest description I’ve encountered so far. Also evident is that it is a system that takes some time to assimilate fully. When a stud like Alzner says that he sometimes forgets, it’s clear that this system is very demanding in its complete execution. But ultimately more rewarding.

Knuble: "I am what I am. I play well with good players."

On his milestone: "It's going to be like unwrapping a birthday present. Then the day after you're kind of like [sighs]....Now you just have to keep going."

by capsyoungguns on Dec 23, 2011 10:14 AM EST up reply actions

When a stud like Alzner says that he sometimes forgets, ~~it’s clear that this system is very demanding in its complete execution~~ it scares the shit out of me with regards to how some of the less, uh, heady players might take to it.

FTFY

Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world

by J.P. on Dec 23, 2011 10:19 AM EST up reply actions

Ha. Scarily good point.

Knuble: "I am what I am. I play well with good players."

On his milestone: "It's going to be like unwrapping a birthday present. Then the day after you're kind of like [sighs]....Now you just have to keep going."

by capsyoungguns on Dec 23, 2011 11:22 AM EST up reply actions

From the Frankovic article, this Hamrlik quote stuck out to me:

"It’s not that much different than what I was playing in Montreal. Now that Huntsy is here we are more desperate and it is more man on man in our defensive zone. He’s looking for good defense creating good offense. From my experience it’s a good thing because everybody works hard in the defensive zone"

Hamrlik has very quietly been much better under Hunter, this explains why – hopefully the first 20 games were just growing pains for an older defenseman in a completely foreign system, now that he’s in a system he’s more comfortable he could settle in. Hopefully. Did I mention hopefully?

The definition of being a Caps fan is watching the same team over and over and expecting different results.

by Becca H on Dec 23, 2011 9:25 AM EST reply actions

Bizarre that a system that emphasizes footspeed and mobility would be a better fit for him. I’m not completely sold, but am hopeful.

Also, you can reply to comments in the thread, fyi.

Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world

by J.P. on Dec 23, 2011 9:28 AM EST up reply actions

…jerk. I think I meant to and choked.

Whatever. At least I know how to embed a link in my comment…ahem…

The definition of being a Caps fan is watching the same team over and over and expecting different results.

by Becca H on Dec 23, 2011 9:53 AM EST up reply actions

Sometimes I intentionally make “mistakes” so as to create an air of commonality with the hoi polloi. It’s an effective community-builiding tactic to make me appear approachable and easy to identify with, when the reality couldn’t be more contrary.

Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world

by J.P. on Dec 23, 2011 9:57 AM EST up reply actions 1 recs

Yeah, and sometimes you’re just full of sh-…oops, this is starting to go OT :D

The definition of being a Caps fan is watching the same team over and over and expecting different results.

by Becca H on Dec 23, 2011 9:59 AM EST up reply actions

rec for hoi polloi. always.

by squidello on Dec 23, 2011 3:11 PM EST up reply actions

So, what are everyone’s opinions on the Wild? (you can probably guess what mine are) Great? Mediocre? Primed for a long playoff run?

Red Line Station and @RedArmyLine, featuring coverage of the most frustrating team in the NHL
I believe in next year.

by red army line on Dec 23, 2011 10:16 AM EST reply actions

All of the above?

You perhaps knew me better as "Your Nation's Capital." Same great commentary, now with 100% more transparency!

by EmilyB on Dec 23, 2011 10:21 AM EST up reply actions

Neil had a discussion going on twitter last night. Gotta agree with him that they’re a paper tiger. they’re a bubble team, imo.

Pledge Drive 2011-2012: CARSON KOLZIG FOUNDATION! Season Pledge total--$718.07!

by RedBirdie on Dec 23, 2011 10:21 AM EST up reply actions

Mikko Koivu is really good.

Really, really good.

Now where's my hat? I'm going to the outhouse.
We don't have an outhouse
.....My tool shed!!!
Box Seats Blog
Twitter
Ron and Fez 11 to 3

by YvonLabresMoustache on Dec 23, 2011 10:22 AM EST up reply actions

And hurt, or at least he was.

You perhaps knew me better as "Your Nation's Capital." Same great commentary, now with 100% more transparency!

by EmilyB on Dec 23, 2011 10:22 AM EST up reply actions

They put him on IR retroactively. But I think his injury has coincided with the present shitting of ye olde bed, correct?

Now where's my hat? I'm going to the outhouse.
We don't have an outhouse
.....My tool shed!!!
Box Seats Blog
Twitter
Ron and Fez 11 to 3

by YvonLabresMoustache on Dec 23, 2011 10:25 AM EST up reply actions

Yes, but I’d add that he’s not the only one missing from the line-up right now.

by sk84fun_dc on Dec 23, 2011 10:25 AM EST up reply actions

Oh MAN have they played a lot of road games recently too. Out of their last 12, 9 have been on the road.

Now where's my hat? I'm going to the outhouse.
We don't have an outhouse
.....My tool shed!!!
Box Seats Blog
Twitter
Ron and Fez 11 to 3

by YvonLabresMoustache on Dec 23, 2011 10:28 AM EST up reply actions

Lucky as hell. Better pick it up if they want to maintain their nice seeding.

Please, call me F&B.

by Rob Parker on Dec 23, 2011 12:28 PM EST up reply actions 1 recs

I like how you posted a picture of the exact moment that Boudreau’s career in Washington was doomed, J.P.

/oversimplification

Capitals goal scored by #22, Mike...

by KNUUUUUUUUUUBLE on Dec 23, 2011 10:23 AM EST reply actions

Sorry, I meant Emily.

Capitals goal scored by #22, Mike...

by KNUUUUUUUUUUBLE on Dec 23, 2011 10:24 AM EST up reply actions

Speaking of Bruce, now two wins in ten games in Anaheim.

“Overall, I hate to keep saying it but I thought we played pretty solid. The difference between winning and losing is sometimes just the attitude and believing that you are going to win or believing you are going to lose.”

Oof.

Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world

by J.P. on Dec 23, 2011 10:25 AM EST up reply actions

/facepalm

Capitals goal scored by #22, Mike...

by KNUUUUUUUUUUBLE on Dec 23, 2011 10:28 AM EST up reply actions

Again, Doctor Effing Phil.

by Langway on Dec 23, 2011 12:10 PM EST up reply actions

Just a heads up to those interested, I added a post in the WJC fanpost with some suggested reading, a couple of interesting write-ups. Likely that I’ll add some more over the weekend, too.

To those reading and rec’ing, thank you.

by sk84fun_dc on Dec 23, 2011 10:29 AM EST reply actions

What if Ben Eager didn’t take so many penalties?

by Rather Bengt on Dec 23, 2011 10:30 AM EST reply actions

NJD lines at practice (source: Gulitti)

Parise-Henrique-Kovalchuk
Sykora-Elias-Zubrus
Tedenby-Zajac-Clarkson
Boulton-Carter/Sestito-Janssen

by sk84fun_dc on Dec 23, 2011 10:31 AM EST reply actions

What a deplorable fourth line.

Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world

by J.P. on Dec 23, 2011 10:32 AM EST up reply actions

Granted, it could be Ghandi – Mother Theresa – Janssen and I could say the same thing.

Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world

by J.P. on Dec 23, 2011 10:33 AM EST up reply actions 1 recs

Ha, I was surprised when he was brought back.

He scored his first NHL goal against the Caps (same game Fleischmann scored his first NHL goal; and both were scored after the player came out of the penalty box,) and yes, he fought/danced with Erskine in that game, too. Feb 2007.

Clarkson back practicing after missing yesterday with the flu and Elias expected to play, too, after missing time due to the flu.

by sk84fun_dc on Dec 23, 2011 10:37 AM EST up reply actions

Hold up… who resurrected Gandhi? And how have I not known that he’s been in the NHL since 2007?

by discuit on Dec 23, 2011 10:38 AM EST up reply actions

Feb 24, 2007 to be exact…

oh hey, and look at that game summary… the D: Pothier, Erskine, Heward, Jurcina, Morrisonn, and Schultz; Johnson in goal; Semin with 2 hooking minors; and a Pettinger SHG.

by sk84fun_dc on Dec 23, 2011 10:39 AM EST up reply actions

Yikes.

Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world

by J.P. on Dec 23, 2011 10:42 AM EST up reply actions

Here’s the recap: Hard to forget seeing that one in person with the penalty box departures turning into goals.

link and the next game since it was a back to back link

by sk84fun_dc on Dec 23, 2011 10:46 AM EST up reply actions

That was immediately pre-trade-deadline, too. Oh, and from my recap of the back-to-backs:

Alex Semin did not play in the second-half of the third period Sunday. Injury? Benching? My guess is the latter, based on Glen Hanlon’s postgame presser. Kid needs to distribute the puck some more and play with more passion.

Neat.

Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world

by J.P. on Dec 23, 2011 10:51 AM EST up reply actions

The more things change, the more they stay the same…

"Neuvy was eating pucks for breakfast, lunch, and dinner."

by SeattleCapsFan on Dec 23, 2011 11:12 AM EST up reply actions

I like that the stars aligned so perfectly that Beech gets an assist and Jurcina gets a goal in the same game.

Comrades, leave me here a little, while as yet 't is early morn:
Leave me here, and when you want me, sound upon the bugle-horn

by sydtron on Dec 23, 2011 10:43 AM EST up reply actions

Oh that should read Semin has a goal and 2 hooking minors.

by sk84fun_dc on Dec 23, 2011 10:43 AM EST up reply actions

I was at that game and remember it vividly, mainly because I got in a fender bender on the way out of that dump of a building called the Continental Airlines arena.

And that was a classic Janssen fight, over two minutes long. Erskine had the mane going back then too.

by Cluster on Dec 23, 2011 11:16 AM EST up reply actions

Ghandi has a terrible forecheck.

Capitals goal scored by #22, Mike...

by KNUUUUUUUUUUBLE on Dec 23, 2011 10:39 AM EST up reply actions

He wasn’t hungry enough.

Comrades, leave me here a little, while as yet 't is early morn:
Leave me here, and when you want me, sound upon the bugle-horn

by sydtron on Dec 23, 2011 10:43 AM EST up reply actions 2 recs

He also doesn’t hit!

You tried your best and failed miserably. The lesson is "Never Try."

by apk3000 on Dec 23, 2011 10:50 AM EST up reply actions

Mother Teresa, btw, has WAY too many giveaways in the offensive zone.

Capitals goal scored by #22, Mike...

by KNUUUUUUUUUUBLE on Dec 23, 2011 10:53 AM EST up reply actions

If Erskine’s on against them, we might see a nice fight though.

Failure is always an option.

by timmyv38 on Dec 23, 2011 10:33 AM EST up reply actions

… which would have to be considered a win of a trade for the Devils.

Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world

by J.P. on Dec 23, 2011 10:34 AM EST up reply actions

True. It would be entertaining though.

Failure is always an option.

by timmyv38 on Dec 23, 2011 3:26 PM EST up reply actions

I like the Blast from the Past second line. Are they trying to build the Over the Hill Gang there?

Now where's my hat? I'm going to the outhouse.
We don't have an outhouse
.....My tool shed!!!
Box Seats Blog
Twitter
Ron and Fez 11 to 3

by YvonLabresMoustache on Dec 23, 2011 10:34 AM EST up reply actions

Also, #tradeSeminforParise, if only to make Wyshynski’s head literally explode.

Now where's my hat? I'm going to the outhouse.
We don't have an outhouse
.....My tool shed!!!
Box Seats Blog
Twitter
Ron and Fez 11 to 3

by YvonLabresMoustache on Dec 23, 2011 10:36 AM EST up reply actions

Hmm… not sure that would work with the little-known clause in Brooks Laich’s big contract that prevents the Caps from acquiring anyone more handsome than him.

Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world

by J.P. on Dec 23, 2011 10:39 AM EST up reply actions 3 recs

Ah yes. The Henrik Lundqvist Clause.

Now where's my hat? I'm going to the outhouse.
We don't have an outhouse
.....My tool shed!!!
Box Seats Blog
Twitter
Ron and Fez 11 to 3

by YvonLabresMoustache on Dec 23, 2011 10:42 AM EST up reply actions

Fucking Lundqvist. He’s a fabulously handsome zillionaire athlete who plays in a charity rock band with John McEnroe. And he’s not even 30 yet.

Screw the guy they have now. Dos Equis should make HIM the most Interesting Man in the World.

Now where's my hat? I'm going to the outhouse.
We don't have an outhouse
.....My tool shed!!!
Box Seats Blog
Twitter
Ron and Fez 11 to 3

by YvonLabresMoustache on Dec 23, 2011 11:05 AM EST up reply actions 1 recs

He also owns a restaurant and is a twin.

Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world

by J.P. on Dec 23, 2011 11:08 AM EST up reply actions

And is Swedish and a bendy goalie. And his wife is probably some gorgeous supermodel (thanks for all the gratuitous close-ups of his wedding ring, HBO…we get it, he’s taken).

The definition of being a Caps fan is watching the same team over and over and expecting different results.

by Becca H on Dec 23, 2011 11:10 AM EST up reply actions

If This is Still His Girlfriend . . . .

Nice guys finish first, but sometimes the season is awfully long.
Follow me on Twitter.

by STLSpidey on Dec 23, 2011 11:12 AM EST up reply actions

You gotta be kidding me.

He should be locked up for his safety. How does he walk more than a block without gaggles of women attempting to claw him to death?

Now where's my hat? I'm going to the outhouse.
We don't have an outhouse
.....My tool shed!!!
Box Seats Blog
Twitter
Ron and Fez 11 to 3

by YvonLabresMoustache on Dec 23, 2011 11:11 AM EST up reply actions

000

They look like the couple on the Wedding Cake

Now where's my hat? I'm going to the outhouse.
We don't have an outhouse
.....My tool shed!!!
Box Seats Blog
Twitter
Ron and Fez 11 to 3

by YvonLabresMoustache on Dec 23, 2011 11:12 AM EST up reply actions 2 recs

Lundy’s twin isn’t nearly as attractive. We know who got all the good genes in that family.

Pledge Drive 2011-2012: CARSON KOLZIG FOUNDATION! Season Pledge total--$718.07!

by RedBirdie on Dec 23, 2011 11:14 AM EST up reply actions

He’s also not nearly as good at hockey.

Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world

by J.P. on Dec 23, 2011 11:18 AM EST up reply actions

Wonder how many times he has said to himself…I should have been a goalie.

by sk84fun_dc on Dec 23, 2011 11:19 AM EST up reply actions

“The player to be acquired may have blue eyes but said eyes may not pierce.”

You perhaps knew me better as "Your Nation's Capital." Same great commentary, now with 100% more transparency!

by EmilyB on Dec 23, 2011 10:51 AM EST up reply actions 2 recs

“The player may also not have a smile higher than 800 watts.”

Capitals goal scored by #22, Mike...

by KNUUUUUUUUUUBLE on Dec 23, 2011 10:55 AM EST up reply actions

“The players cheeks may be chiseled, but not so chiseled that they appear to be chiseled out of the finest Canadian granite.”

Pledge Drive 2011-2012: CARSON KOLZIG FOUNDATION! Season Pledge total--$718.07!

by RedBirdie on Dec 23, 2011 11:15 AM EST up reply actions

What are the guidelines on pecs?

Now where's my hat? I'm going to the outhouse.
We don't have an outhouse
.....My tool shed!!!
Box Seats Blog
Twitter
Ron and Fez 11 to 3

by YvonLabresMoustache on Dec 23, 2011 11:16 AM EST up reply actions

They must be hand-judged on an individual basis by a panel of unbiased observers. I believe that panel is me and RB, right?

/hides in shameful puckbunny cave

The definition of being a Caps fan is watching the same team over and over and expecting different results.

by Becca H on Dec 23, 2011 11:20 AM EST up reply actions

right!

Pledge Drive 2011-2012: CARSON KOLZIG FOUNDATION! Season Pledge total--$718.07!

by RedBirdie on Dec 23, 2011 11:22 AM EST up reply actions

If they really wanted a BFTP line, they would have coaxed Mr Handsome, Bobby Holik, out of retirement.

by Rather Bengt on Dec 23, 2011 10:40 AM EST up reply actions

...

Someone once photoshopped Bobby Parros – a combination of Bobby Holik with George Parros

by Rather Bengt on Dec 23, 2011 10:45 AM EST up reply actions

Here’s an interesting note from Sherry Ross (SherryDarlingNJ)

Kevin Pollock, the ref Petr Sykora fooled in Pitt, works tonight’s game

This is referencing when Sykora went to the box for a penalty, which should have been Elias’, and Elias scored a SHG with Sykora in the box.

by sk84fun_dc on Dec 23, 2011 10:50 AM EST up reply actions

It’ll be Carter-Sestito-Janssen:

@TGfireandice

Boulton odd man out tonight. Clarkson said he will play. Just battling a cold.

You perhaps knew me better as "Your Nation's Capital." Same great commentary, now with 100% more transparency!

by EmilyB on Dec 23, 2011 11:00 AM EST up reply actions

and forgot to post this but Gulitti reported that Larsson flew home to Sweden to attend his grandmother’s funeral and is expected to miss this game and one more.

by sk84fun_dc on Dec 23, 2011 11:20 AM EST up reply actions

I’m stunned to see Zajac on the third line.

Winterion Game Studios
Visit us online at : http://winterion.com

by winterion on Dec 23, 2011 12:21 PM EST up reply actions

___

So he’s off the top-two lines. Or, put another way…

Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world

by J.P. on Dec 23, 2011 12:31 PM EST up reply actions 4 recs

Photoshopped?

Please, call me F&B.

by Rob Parker on Dec 23, 2011 2:00 PM EST up reply actions

Not sure. Likely.

Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world

by J.P. on Dec 23, 2011 2:04 PM EST up reply actions

Confirmed Photoshopped – it read “Pulling a Parker!” initially.

Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world

by J.P. on Dec 23, 2011 2:14 PM EST up reply actions 1 recs

Everyone wants to be remembered for something.

Please, call me F&B.

by Rob Parker on Dec 23, 2011 2:53 PM EST up reply actions

Zajac will be playing in only his 4th game of the season after the off-summer training injury (achilles tendon) and rehab. Last game, he got more ice time with Elias out, but returning from injury, playing under a new coach and working into a line-up with some combos which were working that’s where he is slotted for now.

by sk84fun_dc on Dec 23, 2011 12:49 PM EST up reply actions

You mean, beyond pacifism?

I did not know that.

Winterion Game Studios
Visit us online at : http://winterion.com

by winterion on Dec 23, 2011 3:05 PM EST up reply actions

Ice Watch: This was the scene at the Prudential Center last night.

You perhaps knew me better as "Your Nation's Capital." Same great commentary, now with 100% more transparency!

by EmilyB on Dec 23, 2011 10:44 AM EST reply actions

How big is the Trans-Siberian Orchestra?

Now where's my hat? I'm going to the outhouse.
We don't have an outhouse
.....My tool shed!!!
Box Seats Blog
Twitter
Ron and Fez 11 to 3

by YvonLabresMoustache on Dec 23, 2011 11:15 AM EST up reply actions

huuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuge. they make a noticeable mess of the VC ice when they play here

Pledge Drive 2011-2012: CARSON KOLZIG FOUNDATION! Season Pledge total--$718.07!

by RedBirdie on Dec 23, 2011 11:16 AM EST up reply actions

Well, at least we can say it’s nothing they’re not used to.

/fix the ice Ted

Now where's my hat? I'm going to the outhouse.
We don't have an outhouse
.....My tool shed!!!
Box Seats Blog
Twitter
Ron and Fez 11 to 3

by YvonLabresMoustache on Dec 23, 2011 11:17 AM EST up reply actions

Well, the music’s good. Ice, not so much….

"The Caps fan doesn't say, 'is the glass half full' or 'is the glass half empty'. He wonders when the glass is going to spill."

by gfcaps fan on Dec 23, 2011 3:36 PM EST up reply actions

oh, be still my beating heart! From TEB:

#Caps D-man Mike Green (groin) is on the trip and took some rushes, too.

Pledge Drive 2011-2012: CARSON KOLZIG FOUNDATION! Season Pledge total--$718.07!

by RedBirdie on Dec 23, 2011 11:47 AM EST reply actions

That’s bad news. It means he could be on the ice soon, which is apparently a very treacherous place for his groin.

Capitals goal scored by #22, Mike...

by KNUUUUUUUUUUBLE on Dec 23, 2011 11:56 AM EST up reply actions

i enjoyed (from the sports bog link) how the real american hero appears engaged in a war with all canadians on the team. the WJC is going to be great.

by Natty Bumppo on Dec 23, 2011 12:06 PM EST reply actions

I agree.

"Neuvy was eating pucks for breakfast, lunch, and dinner."

by SeattleCapsFan on Dec 23, 2011 12:13 PM EST up reply actions

Unfortunately, it also accords with whispers around the team that suggest that Carlson is exceedingly arrogant and doesn’t take coaching direction all that well.

Unleash the Apathy.

by D'ohboy on Dec 23, 2011 1:27 PM EST up reply actions

Where did these whispers come from, Paul?

Please, call me F&B.

by Rob Parker on Dec 23, 2011 2:00 PM EST up reply actions

And they all despise Neuvy?

by discuit on Dec 23, 2011 2:33 PM EST up reply actions

I’d hate to think about how they feel about Vokoun.

Pledge Drive 2011-2012: CARSON KOLZIG FOUNDATION! Season Pledge total--$718.07!

by RedBirdie on Dec 23, 2011 2:45 PM EST up reply actions

Interesting interview with the guys from Power Scout Hockey

Link

It's not that I don't like people, I'm just happier when they're not around - Hank Chinaski

by Edanger6 on Dec 23, 2011 2:37 PM EST reply actions

Joel Rechlicz had the top fight of 2011. Congrats Wrecker!

Just don’t get CTE or somethin’.

http://sports.yahoo.com/nhl/blog/puck_daddy/post/Puck-Daddy-s-top-10-hockey-fights-of-2011?urn=nhl-wp20641

You perhaps knew me better as "Your Nation's Capital." Same great commentary, now with 100% more transparency!

by EmilyB on Dec 23, 2011 2:54 PM EST reply actions

Charges against Milbury dismissed, and I must say that, upon hearing the news that he’s once again a free man, tears of joy streamed down my face; I think we can all agree that he’s this generation’s Mandela.

Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world

by J.P. on Dec 23, 2011 3:19 PM EST reply actions