Wednesday Caps Clips: Roller Coaster Win
by J.P. on Mar 23, 2011 6:31 AM EDT
in Caps Clips
Email
PrintYour savory breakfast links:
- Recaps and other assorted musings on last night's win from us, Caps365 video (Boudreau, players), Vogs, NHL.com (Kimelman), WashTimes (Whyno: blog, blog, blog, gamer), WaPo (Carrera: blog, gamer), DCEx (McNally: gamer, blog), 106.7 The Fan (Kerstein), CSN Washington (Hughes, Kurz), Frankovic, Peerless, RMNB, SB Nation DC, KOL, Homer McFanboy, Capitals News Network, WC2010, Caps Daily, CRtC and Broadstreet Hockey (who has links to Philly-centric recaps and more here).
- Are those two points in your pocket or are you just happy to see me? [Capitals Watch]
- Flyers/Caps is still a good rivalry. [Philly Sports Daily]
- How important is winning the East? [CSN Washington (Hughes)]
- The story du jour continues to be the goalies. [SlapShot]
- Team Neuvy. [Homer McFanboy]
- Alex Ovechkin's top five plays of the week (I'm guessing this will be better than next week's edition). [CSN Washington (video)]
- Is Brooks Laich's next contract going to be for north of $4 million annually? (And if it is, will he still be in Washington?) [RtR]
- And hey, is that Edmonton coveting Laich? [Edmonton Journal]
- Oh, and how about another look at his Goal of the Week? [PHT]
- Using Michal Neuvirth to help demonstrate some goaltending technique. [The Goalie Guild]
- Speaking of Neuvy, a bit more on his new mask. [RMNB]
- Ozzy Osbourne cuts a Caps promo. [D.C. Sports Bog]
- HBO's 24/7 gets a trio of Sports Emmy nominations, presumably including one for Most Gratuitously Awesome Use of the F-Word. [CI (Applebaum)]
- Todd Ford: Cap for a day (or two). [Post and Courier]
- Evgeny Kuznetsov talks marriage. [RMNB]
- Good news on the Tomas Fleischmann front. [All Things Avs, NHL.com (Sadowski)]
- Happy 23rd birthday to Neuvy, happy 35th to Nolan Baumgartner, and happy 53rd to Bengt-Ake Gustafsson.
- Finally, sad to note the passing of original Cap (and former Bear and Baltimore Clipper) Pete Laframboise. [Ottawa Citizen (h/t sk84fun_dc), Greatest Hockey Legends]
816 comments
|
0 recs |
Do you like this story?
Comments
Apropos of nothing:
Lets say you coach a team that is going to face an opponent known for their shot blocking. And you decide your strategy will be “let ’em” – at least for the first ten minutes. So the instructions to the team are “good hard shots, on net, and if they want to jump in front of them let them pay the price.” And if you don’t score, at least you wear them down a bit.
What kinds of shots would be most effective at slowing the other team down for the following 50 minutes? Ankle high?
And is this a strategy anyone ever uses?
Atta dinnin stick a who!
What kinds of shots would be most effective at slowing the other team down for the following 50 minutes?
You really want me to answer that?
Signed,
P. Thoreson
[And yes, I changed my joke – the power of being on the masthead!]
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
[inaudible mumbling]
Signed,
Q. Laing
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
by J.P. on Mar 23, 2011 7:22 AM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
“atsh a brrrrlynt idee!”
Quintin Laing
by Berube Doobie Doo on Mar 23, 2011 7:22 AM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
And how much did those shot blocks cost in dental work again?
Rocking the Red for teams on the banks of the Potomac and at the Gateway Arch and Singing the Blues about Hockey.
___
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
by J.P. on Mar 23, 2011 9:26 AM EDT up reply actions 8 recs
God bless, there can never be enough Aaron Burr references. Or did you mean Cheney?
"Goaltending is a normal job, sure. How would you like it in your job if every time you made a small mistake, a red light went on over your desk and 15,000 people stood up and yelled at you." - Jacques Plante
Yes and yes. Love that milk commercial, too.
by Berube Doobie Doo on Mar 23, 2011 8:53 AM EDT up reply actions
Show that to my class every year.
"Goaltending is a normal job, sure. How would you like it in your job if every time you made a small mistake, a red light went on over your desk and 15,000 people stood up and yelled at you." - Jacques Plante
Ugh. Michael Bay. Yuck.
We're Hüsker Dü and we're on MTV. Who are you, and what are you on?
by bilspacecadet on Mar 23, 2011 11:20 AM EDT up reply actions
What happened with the delay of game Ovie got when he shot the puck and it bounced off the player? does it have to deflect off a stick to count?
Suspend Colin Campbell!
Refs missed the fact that it bounced off the player.
Because now I can justify browsing and commenting during the work day with the argument that I am promoting my business.
by Sombrero Guy on Mar 23, 2011 9:40 AM EDT up reply actions
Breakdown of remaining games
The Caps have by far the easiest remaining schedule in the East. Let’s hope they don’t take that for granted.
Nice, thanks. How in hell do TBL and CAR play three times in the final 9 games? That seems like a serious schedule glitch to me.
"Goaltending is a normal job, sure. How would you like it in your job if every time you made a small mistake, a red light went on over your desk and 15,000 people stood up and yelled at you." - Jacques Plante
The league, in a logic that defies explanation, likes to schedule intra-division games late, despite the fact that the race at the bottom of the playoff seeding is intra-conference.
If you've read this far...seek help.
Only two games remainng against playoff-eligible teams (that Western Conference game is against Columbus). The odd part of the East at the moment is that of the eight playoff eligible teams, the ones that are playing best (save for the Caps) are at the bottom of the draw.
If you've read this far...seek help.
I think it’s not as creampuff a reamining schedule as it looks. BUF, CAR, and TOR will likely be playing 110% effort chasing a playoff spot. Columbus always plays us very tough. Florida has also been an challenge this year. Even Ottawa has been playing well down the stretch.
Hopefully, they really DO play us tough. Nobody wants this team to get as over-confident as they were last year.
by Berube Doobie Doo on Mar 23, 2011 7:27 AM EDT up reply actions
Hopefully, they really DO play us tough. Nobody wants this team to get as over-confident as they were last year.
Couldn’t agree more. I’d actually prefer a 4-4 or 5-3 last eight games where the team was facing really tough opponents each night to a 7-1 finish where they’re able to coast to the finish. Assuming they’re still playing good hockey, that is.
From RtR:
Should the Capitals elect to retain his services, Laich will be due a significant raise over his current salary.
Judging by his performance and by comparable players in the NHL, Brooks Laich’s next contract is likely to be for $21 million over 5 years.
Especially considering his durability, it would be surprising if Laich got a deal for less than 4 years at $4 million per season, even with the offensive drop-off from last season.
Giving $4mil to a 20-goal scorer who is arguably entering the latter phase of his peak performance years seems high to me. Are there intangibles to his game? Absolutely. Do those warrant a doubling of his $$? I am not convinced.
Blogger for Russian Machine Never Breaks (RMNB) and WaPo's Capitals Insider
I also log the Caps scoring chances for 2010-11. The summary spreadsheet is posted on Google Docs.
Follow me on Twitter @ngreenberg
Yeah, I thought their numbers were somewhat-to-significantly higher than I’d think he’d get here. Then again, they’re over the barrell a bit on the wings.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
Is it wishful thinking that he might accept a bit of a discount to stay? I know he didn’t start here, but he seems to love it and has developed into a leader. He seems a class guy who wouldn’t necessarily take the most money no matter what.
"Goaltending is a normal job, sure. How would you like it in your job if every time you made a small mistake, a red light went on over your desk and 15,000 people stood up and yelled at you." - Jacques Plante
Professional athletes have such small windows on their peak earning years that it’s not realistic to expect them to give “hometown discounts,” especially for non-superstars not towards the ends of their careers. Might Laich leave some money on the table to stay here? Sure. But I certainly wouldn’t begrudge him a bit if he sought out and took the best deal he can find for himself and his family (current and future).
So yeah, probably wishful thinking. But maybe he and GMGM/Fishman can agree on something that both sides think is fair.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
Laich – UFA ($2.4M)
Knuble – UFA ($2.8M)
Arnott – UFA ($4.5M)
Bradley – UFA ($1.0M)
B. Gordon – UFA ($0.8M)
A. Gordon – RFA ($0.5M)
Alzner – RFA ($0.875M)
Varlamov – RFA ($0.765M)
Perreault – RFA ($0.650M)
If Sturm was being paid $3.5 million, Laich definitely qualifies for over 3. If Knuble comes back it would have to be for less. Bradley and Gordon both would get equivalent or minor raises. That leaves Arnott and the RFAs to work out.
If Sturm was being paid $3.5 million, Laich definitely qualifies for over 3.
Eh, one bad contract doesn’t necessarily justify another (and Sturm’s was coming off back-to-back seasons in which he averaged 28 goals).
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
But yes, Laich will make more than $3m.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
This seems a good time to quote someone I know on this subject:
It only takes one GM. Don’t tell me Brian Burke doesn’t think about Brooks Laich while massaging his nipples.
by Berube Doobie Doo on Mar 23, 2011 8:35 AM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
If Sturm was being paid $3.5 million, Laich definitely qualifies for over 3.
Just because a player “was paid $X mil” doesn’t mean that Laich (or anyone) is worth that much. And if memory serves, Sturm was waived…
I would argue that 2009-10 Laich was perhaps performing at a $3mil-ish level
Blogger for Russian Machine Never Breaks (RMNB) and WaPo's Capitals Insider
I also log the Caps scoring chances for 2010-11. The summary spreadsheet is posted on Google Docs.
Follow me on Twitter @ngreenberg
Laich will be 28 in June. This is likely to be his payday contract. I think the Caps will get an opportunity to match offers, but as for a hometown discount? Seems a bit like wishful thinking.
If you've read this far...seek help.
Laich’s situation reminds me (favorably) of Ryan Malone. Same type of goal scoring front-of-the-net type player, great character guy who really loves his team……But if he gets to July 1 and some team out there puts the offer on the table, it’s hard to say no to $4.5 million for six years (and even more so for the original team to match).
Important to remember though that Malone really boosted his value by a great playoff. Plus perhaps there was more available cap space for teams to spend back in 2008. On the other hand, this year’s UFA forward class is not very top-heavy.
"Game's the same. Just got more fierce."
Malone played up front on Crosby’s line, right? If so, and he left that spot, then that will drop his point production immediately. Plus, I think if you ask Tampa about that contract now, they wouldn’t mind shedding it from payroll. The contract isn’t killing them now, but once they get guys like Stamkos and Hedman off their EL deals, add in a FA signing or two, it could start to hurt.
If Brooks got that kind of offer on the open market, I wouldn’t hate him if he took it because the Caps just can’t afford to pay that much for him
by JimCareyFanClub on Mar 23, 2011 9:13 AM EDT up reply actions
Malone played a lot with Crosby, but he really made his money with a good showing on Malkin’s line.…And in Malone’s first two years in Tampa he scored more goals, assists and points than his final two seasons in Pittsburgh, so I don’t really think you can say his stats deflated.
Whether or not it’s a good contract is one thing, but young goal-scoring forwards with some grit, heart and can play in any situation (PP, ES, PK) are in demand and when they’re UFA at 27-29, they can really cash in. Some teams like to build or compliment their teams through free agency.
Brad Richards is the prize guy out there, but the second tier isn’t that big: Laich, Connolly, Gagne, Ryder; that’s about it and not all of those are gems. The key to Laich staying a Cap, in my eyes, is not letting him get to July 1 and test the waters.
"Game's the same. Just got more fierce."
You caught me not doing any research on Malone’s stats, but after taking a look, I think Malone just seemed to find his game more that last season in Pittsburgh, and playing with Lecavalier and/or St. Louis isn’t too bad of a consolation prize in comparison to playing on a line with Crosby or Malkin.
In regards to Laich, I think his value also increases if other teams view him as a center and not a winger. Like you said, the key is getting him signed before July 1.
by JimCareyFanClub on Mar 23, 2011 9:38 AM EDT up reply actions
His dad is a scout for the Lightning, but won 2 cups with the Penguins.
by JimCareyFanClub on Mar 23, 2011 9:49 AM EDT up reply actions
I believe Greg Malone signed with Tampa the same summer as Ryan did. To be honest, I forget which one went first, but for some reason my memory says Ryan signed first than the old man followed.
"Game's the same. Just got more fierce."
by Hooks Orpik on Mar 23, 2011 11:33 AM EDT up reply actions
Laich’s situation reminds me (favorably) of Ryan Malone.
Glad I read through this before commenting, because I was going to make the same comparison. If Laich does make it to July 1st, I can see a desperate GM over paying. Laich gets a lot of praise from every national broadcast for being the good Canadian hard working vocal locker room guy. Some GM’s can/will convince themselves to overpay by $500k-$750K per season for “intangibles”.
Because now I can justify browsing and commenting during the work day with the argument that I am promoting my business.
by Sombrero Guy on Mar 23, 2011 9:47 AM EDT up reply actions
And if you’re Laich, how do you turn that much money ($2-3 million over the life of a contract) down?
it would be hard to, that’s for sure. The only caveat would be the additional pressure of living up to a big contract, and the misery that comes when you don’t.
Because now I can justify browsing and commenting during the work day with the argument that I am promoting my business.
by Sombrero Guy on Mar 23, 2011 12:02 PM EDT up reply actions
that list has a lot of our current bread bakers on it – who goes to the bakery next year?
Hey, sewer rat may taste like pumpkin pie, but I'd never know 'cause I wouldn't eat the filthy motherfucker.
might be left with nothing but croissants in the front case.
If you've read this far...seek help.
by ThePeerless on Mar 23, 2011 9:12 AM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
Perreault?
Blogger for Russian Machine Never Breaks (RMNB) and WaPo's Capitals Insider
I also log the Caps scoring chances for 2010-11. The summary spreadsheet is posted on Google Docs.
Follow me on Twitter @ngreenberg
I think Perreault ID’d himself as a chocolate croissant this season.
....when the truth is if they knew anything about the game, they'd be in it.
--GMGM
by redlineblue on Mar 23, 2011 10:09 AM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
If Sturm was being paid $3.5 million, Laich definitely qualifies for over 3.
According to CapGeek, Hannan was making $4.5 million with the Avs. This is a prime example of the problem with throwing money at a player to get him to stay – when it comes time to renew a contract, how are you going to backpedal?
Nevermind that he probably wasn’t worth $4.5 million – the Avs gave him that much. Is he going to want the same money to stay in DC?
This is why I don’t think GMGM should give Laich much more than what he’s really worth just to keep him. It would lead to a Hannan-esque situation down the road. I want Laich to stay in DC, but only if five years down the line, he’s willing to take a lot less than whatever he got paid the previous years.
by redpezrocket on Mar 23, 2011 9:00 AM EDT up reply actions
Hannan signed with the Avs after a strong season with the Sharks?
Because now I can justify browsing and commenting during the work day with the argument that I am promoting my business.
by Sombrero Guy on Mar 23, 2011 9:49 AM EDT up reply actions
minus the question mark.
Because now I can justify browsing and commenting during the work day with the argument that I am promoting my business.
by Sombrero Guy on Mar 23, 2011 9:49 AM EDT up reply actions
Oh, no way I would begrudge him at all. And one could use the Semin extension as a reason that $4M is maybe not that unwarranted. I also see your point on wingers, so if you can only pay $4M for either Laich or Arnott, who do you pay?
"Goaltending is a normal job, sure. How would you like it in your job if every time you made a small mistake, a red light went on over your desk and 15,000 people stood up and yelled at you." - Jacques Plante
I wouldn’t want the Caps to pay $4m for either next season.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
Is there another UFA out there, cheaper, who you prefer? I admit to still being unclear on much of the salary cap stuff, so I am not really factoring that into my questions.
"Goaltending is a normal job, sure. How would you like it in your job if every time you made a small mistake, a red light went on over your desk and 15,000 people stood up and yelled at you." - Jacques Plante
Curtis Glencross would make a decent Laich replacement, I think. Kick-ass checker, that guy. Kyle Wellwood, Chris Higgins, and Vernon Fiddler are also all UFAs. Haven’t looked closely at them, but my first instinct is that they’re decent players.
My blog and Twitter, featuring coverage of the most frustrating team in the NHL
If you don't know how to use Timeonice, read this.
Behindthenet quick link to QoC/QoT/Corsi/PDO/Zonestarts
"Numbers don't lie, they just don't agree with you"--George E. Ays
If I reference a lot of stats, just assume I haven't seen anything to contradict or invalidate them.
by red army line on Mar 23, 2011 12:27 PM EDT up reply actions
…is signed by Minnesota for 2 more years, and will still be an RFA even then.
by Berube Doobie Doo on Mar 23, 2011 12:42 PM EDT up reply actions
3.5? Seems that’s what he’s got to be worth based on other recent signings (which escape me at the moment).
Don’t try to figure Sasha out. Just ride the wave.
3.5? Seems that’s what he’s got to be worth based on other recent signings
What a player is worth and what he is paid are two completely different things.
One year deal I could live with as a fan but I think $3.5 AAV is high for Laich on a multi year deal. The chances of him improving over 2009-10 at age 28 (without some significant good fortune) are low, IMO.
Blogger for Russian Machine Never Breaks (RMNB) and WaPo's Capitals Insider
I also log the Caps scoring chances for 2010-11. The summary spreadsheet is posted on Google Docs.
Follow me on Twitter @ngreenberg
While I tend to agree, what you’re essentially saying is the chances of him improving over a very lucky 2009-10 at age 28 without even more luck are low. And I agree that he’s unlikely to improve over those goal and point totals. But he has improved his game some in other respects and has demonstrated some valuable versatility this year that he frankly didn’t show then.
2009-10 was an aberration for Laich in terms of point production, but he does have value beyond his goal totals (unlike… well, I won’t go there).
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
[Laich] does have value beyond his goal totals
Agree, and even saw an article on something along those lines.
What that is worth tho is anyone’s guess.
Blogger for Russian Machine Never Breaks (RMNB) and WaPo's Capitals Insider
I also log the Caps scoring chances for 2010-11. The summary spreadsheet is posted on Google Docs.
Follow me on Twitter @ngreenberg
You’re worth what the market says you are, what we think he’s worth is irrelevant. And we know the market pays for past performance as much as expectations.
Don’t try to figure Sasha out. Just ride the wave.
Patrick Sharp’s cap hit is 3.9MM, I’d say that Laich would do well to get what he gets, but should probably get something just under what Sharp gets. I wouldn’t have a problem with 5 years/3.5MM.
by JimCareyFanClub on Mar 23, 2011 8:32 AM EDT up reply actions
Laich should get a metric ton less than Sharp. Not just a little. But Sharp is on a steal of a contract and Laich’s agent won’t fall for that comparison. I’d be real upset with 3.5/5. I could do 3.5/3 but if Laich wants 5 years he’s gotta come down.
First Round Exit! (Clap Clap ClapClapClap) First Round Exit!
by Rob Parker on Mar 23, 2011 4:04 PM EDT via mobile up reply actions
Zajac and Parise average out to $3.5M. Is this really Brooks Laich’s neighborhood? I mean, if anyone offers him three and half million dollars for any term, wouldn’t he be Downie-grade nuts not to take it?
....when the truth is if they knew anything about the game, they'd be in it.
--GMGM
Those guys are on RFA contracts. Both are worth much more on UFA deals. And Parise is RFA again after this season and might make close to double that going forward.
Bruce -- you define me.
He’d be nuts not to take it, but I still don’t think it makes sense in terms of our future salary cap plans. He’s going to be on the wrong side of 30 pretty quickly. Those guys are best left for shorter term deals.
I’m still not really sure we know where Laich’s true talent is. Last season is still going to have a massive distortive effect on these negotiations. I’d rather go shorter.
First Round Exit! (Clap Clap ClapClapClap) First Round Exit!
His previous 2 seasons were pretty much the same points-wise. It’s this year he’s struggling, and that mostly due to a lower-than-average shooting percentage.
Which may be a reflection of him being a passenger on what used to be a vicious PP and now isn’t. His ES scoring hasn’t been anything to write home about. So unless you’re prepared to make the case that the PP lives and dies with Laich’s play I’m not really convinced of his offensive competence.
First Round Exit! (Clap Clap ClapClapClap) First Round Exit!
In support of that – in 2008-9, he had 13-14-27 ES, 9-15-24 PP, 1-1-2 PK. 2009-10, 12-24-36 ES, 12-9-21 PP, 1-1-2 PK. 2010-11, 11-18-29 ES, 4-5-9 PP, 1-2-3 PK. His ES and PK points have not changed much in the last 3 seasons, with the exception of more ES assists last season. His points being lower are almost entirely due to PP – on which he has always been more of a finisher, rather than the one creating opportunities.
Matt Bradley: He has sensitive skin, no?
Look, I’m not the guy’s biggest fan. But two consecutive 50-point seasons is nothing to scoff about.
And shooting percentage is, for the most part, full of luck. If you’re averaging 12% a year and one year it’s 7%, then I’d say the next year it would be back around %12.
It’s definitely full of luck, no doubt. But it’s also indicative of some other things. If he’s cashing in on PP rebounds, that picks up your Shot%. When the PP goes dry and isn’t getting the shots or rebounds, his scoring dries up. If he’s not the kind of guy that can create chances on the PP, then I’m not necessarily willing to just assume that he’s going to get back to where he was. That’s why I called him a passenger. You could easily be right, and the Shot% is definitely a valid point. Time will tell, but for more than 3.5 I’d rather time tell with him wearing another uni.
First Round Exit! (Clap Clap ClapClapClap) First Round Exit!
Exactly. Fans believe in the hometown discount a lot more than athletes do. And Laich it or not (get it?), he should try and get the most money combined with the best situation.
Most of the discussion has left out the best situation part, so thanks for mentioning that. How much is it worth giving up to stay with a team that has a better chance of winning? Obviously, it depends on the player. In the early days of the rebuild, Caps had to overpay to get mid-level (or mediocre, if you prefer) free agents.
Don’t try to figure Sasha out. Just ride the wave.
I think the better situation is more important to older players who have had a successful career and who don’t really want to move yet again.
But I think that’ secondary to money (both per year and total). We may scoff and think it’s crazy that he decided to go to the Blue Jackets for $3.5 million a year when the Caps offered $3.3 million, but that’s two-hundred-thousand-fucking dollars! That’s a lot of money.
I think he should definitely look for the best option, but I think your first statement was correct in that the money should be weighed with the location and quality of team. I don’t see Brooks taking $3.5 in Columbus over $3.3 in DC (assuming same term). Granted, that’s just one hypothetical. But Edmonton at $4MM? Phoenix? Atlanta?
I don’t expect Brooks to leave money on the table to stay in DC over another competitive team, but on the other hand, he’s only played 1 game without a Caps jersey in his career, and that’s when Ottawa was challenging. He clearly loves DC and he is loved by DC. He wants to be on a Cup-competing team (as does almost any player). What I mean by that is that I see him being happier as a 2F here than a 1F with higher expectations somewhere else.
"Inglewood Jack! Inglewood Jack!" - Coach Jules
by Alz Well That Ends Well on Mar 23, 2011 12:07 PM EDT up reply actions
If it’s a difference of $200k per year for four years (what he’ll probably get length-wise) that’s a ton of money. Add in cost of living and the chance to play with Rick Nash, why not go to Columbus?
And I think you’re nuts if you think a professional athlete doesn’t want to be at a place where he’s put in a more important role. That’s what most players thrive on.
In concept I agree with you. I didn’t explain well.
Would you rather be the 1W in Edmonton or the 2W in DC? Assume the money is equal. Now, even with an extra $800 over the course of the contract?
I think it’s rare to hear about players with options choosing to forgo being on a competitive team because they want personal glory. Now if Brooks had the option to be 1W on a Cup team vs. 2W on a Cup team, obviously I think 1W wins out. On the other hand, is a team with Brooks Laich as the consistent 1W going to be a Cup threat? It’s probably different for every player, but each one has to make a decision about whether personal stats & glory are more important to them vs. winning Cup(s). Do they want to be Marino? From everything I’ve heard from Brooks, he values the Cup more. Now hockey players are notorious for saying that stuff, but I believe him more than most.
The only example I can pull off the top of my head is Chris Neil? saying he didn’t want to be traded at the deadline because he wanted to stay and mentor the young kids he has now.
"Inglewood Jack! Inglewood Jack!" - Coach Jules
by Alz Well That Ends Well on Mar 23, 2011 12:19 PM EDT up reply actions
I agree with what you say largely, but this scenario is $3.5 from a suitor and $3.3 from the Caps at the same term. That’s almost a no-brainer for Laich to stay in DC. If that scenario were to change— say the suitor offers $3.8 million for five years and the Caps say the best they can do is $3.3 million for 4 years..Then we might see the true test of the almighty buck.
Sometimes the price of a “discount” costs the team a term they wouldn’t normally do- Orpik received bigger $$ offers (reportedly from NYR, LA and ATL) but told Pittsburgh if they would match the six years, he’d stay. They didn’t really want to, but they decided to give it to him. Maybe in my above scenario, if the Caps can match the length of the deal, the rest will fall into place as well. Again, it’s a long time from now though in the big picture, but interesting to think of.
"Game's the same. Just got more fierce."
Yeah, I cherry picked $3.5 and $3.3 because they supported my case. If we go with the $3.8 and longer term you mentioned or a hypothetical $4MM from a desperate team looking to make him a centerpiece, it is definitely harder to justify staying here.
"Inglewood Jack! Inglewood Jack!" - Coach Jules
by Alz Well That Ends Well on Mar 23, 2011 1:34 PM EDT up reply actions
Both Kris Letang and the penalty kill have taken a nose dive in the past month…After this year the contract is halfway over. See no reason why Orpik can’t play tough minutes and eat PK time for the next three years and that’s worth $3.75m — especially when the cap has risen each year.
Yes, beware of over-paying free agents, but a team also have to choose which good soliders to keep (Orpik) and which to let go and replace (Malone). Depending on the long-term salary structure, Caps may have the same debate with Laich and Hannan this summer. Keep 1, and you’re probably alright to keep all the guys soon to be off ELC’s. Keep both, and you’re starting to look at a Chicago situation where some young players are going to have to be jettisoned.
"Game's the same. Just got more fierce."
I just don’t know about that. I think a comparable Laich could be had for cheaper than a Hannan. I also am not sure if Laich is more valuable to the team at this time than Hannan is.
I’d go for a 3, not sure about the 4. Depends on the price. We have prospects who could fill Laich’s shoes, but not a whole lot at the farm in the way of a solid D man other than Orlov.
The Caps have 123 defensemen under contract for next year (a slight exaggeration). Replacing 20-goal-scorers is not that easy, and I don’t see anyone that is immediately able to step into Laich’s role.
If we resigned Marco Sturm (not advocating) he could have 20 goals on that second line, probably at $2mm. The question is how much more does Laich bring to the table to justify something between $3-4mm. For the record, I think I’d bring Hannan back for a 3 year deal before I overpaid for Laich.
Bruce -- you define me.
The only example I can pull off the top of my head is Chris Neil? saying he didn’t want to be traded at the deadline because he wanted to stay and mentor the young kids he has now.
I don’t mean to get all pedantic on you Alz, but I believe you mean Chris Phillips. OTT would have to be pretty lwniwnt oer downright insane to let someone like Chris Neil mentor their young’uns.
Rice is great if you're really hungry and want to eat two thousand of something.
by Rather Bengt on Mar 23, 2011 4:19 PM EDT up reply actions
lwniwnt oer should read “lenient or”
Rice is great if you're really hungry and want to eat two thousand of something.
by Rather Bengt on Mar 23, 2011 4:20 PM EDT up reply actions
and here I thought “lwniwnt” was Canadian for “fucking dumb”
Pledge Drive 2010-2011: SO KIDS CAN!! Help build a playground
No. Canadian for “fucking dumb” is “DamoSpin”.
Rice is great if you're really hungry and want to eat two thousand of something.
by Rather Bengt on Mar 23, 2011 4:31 PM EDT up reply actions 8 recs
I’m going to work this into conversation at the next opportunity.
Pledge Drive 2010-2011: SO KIDS CAN!! Help build a playground
You are correct. Chris Neil teaches line dancing or something.
"Inglewood Jack! Inglewood Jack!" - Coach Jules
by Alz Well That Ends Well on Mar 23, 2011 4:50 PM EDT up reply actions
200K is not a lot of money to Matt Cooke, apparently.
by Ray of Sunshine on Mar 23, 2011 3:59 PM EDT up reply actions
Brooks Laich’s worth isn’t what we deem it to be, but rather, what someone will pay him. I can easily see someone paying him upwards of 4 million. The question would be rather or not we match it, or if Laich wishes to take less with us for some reason(s).
"[Boudreau] lets the offensive guys like myself and Brooks do our thing. A lot of dangling." - Matt Bradley
One of the things that I think gets lost in discussions like these, is that there are actual costs that come with switching teams. Especially when you’re talking about professional athletes. I watched a video a while back where they were customizing Mike Green’s new condo. I’m looking at probably more than $100,000 in customizations that aren’t going to add much value to a buyer. Then you have guys like Semin who have invested in local bars and clubs. You build friendships outside the locker room that you have to consider as well.
You also have to consider where you’re moving. The top marginal tax rate in Virginia is 5.75%. Just over the river in Montgomery County, the top rate is 9.7%. The top rate in NYC is around 13%. If Laich left the Caps to go to the Rangers, the offer would need to be more than 7% higher for him to even see an increase in his net pay.
Now if you’re Laich and the Caps are offering $3M a year, and Edmonton is offering $3.5 over similar term, you probably pack your bags. If the difference is $200k, you really need to ponder what leaving will cost you.
I am a hockey fan first, and a Caps fan second.
by iwearstripes on Mar 23, 2011 11:14 PM EDT up reply actions
Don’t forget cost of living.
"Essentially, all models are wrong, but some are useful" George E.P. Box
by Knee high to a duck on Mar 24, 2011 6:47 PM EDT up reply actions
I like the Bourque comparison.
At some point though you have to draw the line and say you’ve paid enough guys market value (Caps are running low on ELC impact players). Is that line drawn at Laich? At Laich @$4 million, I’d draw it. $3.5 million, I think I wouldn’t.
My blog and Twitter, featuring coverage of the most frustrating team in the NHL
If you don't know how to use Timeonice, read this.
Behindthenet quick link to QoC/QoT/Corsi/PDO/Zonestarts
"Numbers don't lie, they just don't agree with you"--George E. Ays
If I reference a lot of stats, just assume I haven't seen anything to contradict or invalidate them.
by red army line on Mar 23, 2011 12:23 PM EDT up reply actions
Two late adds to Clips: Peerless’s recap and Whyno’s blog post at the second bullet.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
Danke! What would a post Caps be without a Peerless recap?
Rocking the Red for teams on the banks of the Potomac and at the Gateway Arch and Singing the Blues about Hockey.
Peerless gets to have his recap/preview links added in the morning whenever they show up (usually around 7:15). No one else is extended that courtesy.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
And I’ve either got to get to bed later or get up earlier. I appreciate that courtesy.
If you've read this far...seek help.
Sleeping is overrated.
You perhaps knew me better as "Your Nation's Capital." Same great commentary, now with 100% more transparency!
I’d like to say sleeping is overrated, but I really don’t get enough of it to know whether it is or not.
Life With Spidey -- a blog about sports, travel, work, family and fun.
Representing Caps fandom in the Gateway to the West.
Just added Homer McFanboy to the recaps bullet, FYI.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
So Bruce Arthur (who I’m relatively new to and kind of like) writes this Monday night on the Cooke suspension, and spends a chunk of last night tweeting Crosby’s quotes on the Steckel hit, and disagrees that it’s accidental contact, but grouping in Cooke’s actions to Steckel’s seems wrong. Am I missing something in his article?
"My favorite fan base in D.C. Is United's. Period. The end." - Steinberg
That’s what I thought; just hoping it wasn’t that easy.
"My favorite fan base in D.C. Is United's. Period. The end." - Steinberg
by Bald Pollack on Mar 23, 2011 7:28 AM EDT up reply actions
“When you get hit like that there’s nothing you can do, there’s no way you can protect yourself." — Crosby, on the Steckel hit.
Uh, yeah… when you’re circling into another player’s path, with your head turned the other way watching the puck 30 feet up ice, sure, there’s no way you can protect yourself…from the position you placed yourself in.
If you've read this far...seek help.
As I think Ken Dryden put it recently, “there’s no charging anymore; the game is played a charging speed.”
If you've read this far...seek help.
All of this said, Steckel still would/should have gotten discipline under the new rules. He obviously hit the guy in the head.
Suspend Colin Campbell!
and yet the GMs felt the need to point out (perhaps at GMGM’s prodding) that Steckel on Crosby was 100% accidental. It was an incredibly unfortunately set of circumstance: Crosby turns into the path of an oncoming player without looking, oncoming player is 6 inches taller. Bam.
we’re not having this conversation had Crosby not played 3 days later vs. Tampa. I can only imagine how much sooner he might have come back had his head not been rattled twice in 3 days.
Pledge Drive 2010-2011: SO KIDS CAN!! Help build a playground
Imagine how long he’ll be in a dark room if he’s rattled a 3rd time in April. He’d better be extra careful out there if he returns.
by Berube Doobie Doo on Mar 23, 2011 10:06 AM EDT up reply actions
Uuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuugh.
First Round Exit! (Clap Clap ClapClapClap) First Round Exit!
by Rob Parker on Mar 23, 2011 4:16 PM EDT via mobile up reply actions 1 recs
How is it that only Caps fans see it that way.? It’s clear as day when you watch it.
Oh, right, that whole Canadian thing.
Don’t try to figure Sasha out. Just ride the wave.
Yeah, but if Canadians like Scott Cullen and Jeff Marek were on the other/my side of the discussion, it’s either a disappointingly lazy column from Arthur, or just a guy looking to fill pixels/column space.
"My favorite fan base in D.C. Is United's. Period. The end." - Steinberg
by Bald Pollack on Mar 23, 2011 8:14 AM EDT up reply actions
You’re right of course, I was just venting a little. I’m so tired of it, but the only way it goes away is for Sid to get back in the game.
Don’t try to figure Sasha out. Just ride the wave.
No worries. It was bizarre to chat with him about that last night.
"My favorite fan base in D.C. Is United's. Period. The end." - Steinberg
by Bald Pollack on Mar 23, 2011 8:30 AM EDT up reply actions
There are lots of people who saw it as accidental. The latest was Keith Jones last night who said the same.
Jonesy said that?!?!
He’s Canadian—revoke his citizenship!!
Rice is great if you're really hungry and want to eat two thousand of something.
by Rather Bengt on Mar 23, 2011 10:08 AM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
and a Capital!
Steckel’s more or less a Byng candidate so I have a hard time believing a guy who rarely takes even a high stick penalty is going to all of a sudden want to kabong a guy and put him on the IR. Given the amount of chances he’s had in the past to deck Crosby (since Boudreau usually iced him when Crosby was out there) it’s odd for him to do it several years after his first chance.
Larger constellations burning, mellow moons and happy skies,
Breadths of tropic shade and palms in cluster, knots of Paradise.
all part of GMGM’s evil plan.
Jones doesn’t like it when people remind him he was a Cap.
Pledge Drive 2010-2011: SO KIDS CAN!! Help build a playground
Steckel is about 30 goals and 50 assists shy of being a Byng candidate. But yes, you are correct about his character.
by Berube Doobie Doo on Mar 23, 2011 11:18 AM EDT up reply actions
"When you get hit like that there’s nothing you can do, there’s no way you can protect yourself." — Crosby, on the Steckel hit.
I thought this would bother me less, now that Stecks is a Devil, but it doesn’t. I’m still furious. How on earth can anyone watch that play, combine it with Steckel’s background in the league and his comments/actions since the hit and come up with it being a dirty play.
A lot of Cindy Crosby stuff is funny, calling him a whiner. But I’m legitimately losing respect for him as a man that he hasn’t made a point to squash this. No rational person can think Steckel was trying to hurt Crosby. I’m not sure how anyone can miss the obvious fact that Steckel was trying to avoid contact with Crosby and join the odd-man rush.
Guess Alex Ovechkin’s Top 5 Plays of the Week will be suspended for this week due to lack of interest.
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 Mar 23, 2011 7:41 AM EDT reply actions 1 recs
This is the team that holds their season ticket party at an amusement park best known for its roller coasters. The team who’s a roller coaster ride of its own to follow. Medical discretion advised when following. Not recommended for those with high blood pressure, heart conditions; etc.
Rocking the Red for teams on the banks of the Potomac and at the Gateway Arch and Singing the Blues about Hockey.
…for the Flyers and Capitals; two teams whose fan bases now have a mutual hatred for one another.
Now have?
I was born and raised in PA, and I have a hatred for the Flyers and the Penguins that is the hatred of a Libyan rebel for Moammar Gadhafi…the hatred of a Bush for broccoli…the hatred of Paula Abdul for Simon Cowell…the hatred of Dan Snyder for the sports section of the Washington Post…of Lindsay Lohan for plea deals…of Chris Brown for green room furniture
If you've read this far...seek help.
by ThePeerless on Mar 23, 2011 8:14 AM EDT up reply actions 8 recs
I noticed this too. You’d think he’d seen the History Will Be Made commercial.
There was also this gem in the article:
Flyers fans have booed Washington star Alexander Ovechkin mercifully…
I’m so glad Flyers fans have been merciful in their booing.
Can you boo someone mercifully? I don’t think so.
“In order to take Ovechkin out of his misery, the Flyers fan viewed him mercifully.”
Hmm. Me thinks mercelessly is the word being looked for.
Life With Spidey -- a blog about sports, travel, work, family and fun.
Representing Caps fandom in the Gateway to the West.
Or just stupidity. Can’t remember. That was almost two hours ago.
Life With Spidey -- a blog about sports, travel, work, family and fun.
Representing Caps fandom in the Gateway to the West.
Compared to the other 28 fanbases who boos him?
The Artist Formerly Known as CP2Devil.
Associate Editor at Five For Howling.
reading the comments at Broad Street Hockey…
When the Mite of the Night was interviewed after the Mites game, he (a goalie) said that his favorite Flyer was “Bob.” He was booed, I guess because Bob had a bad game.
How do you boo a mite?
If you've read this far...seek help.
umm, it is Philadelphia. That’s a badge of honor for them
by Moonage Daydream on Mar 23, 2011 8:24 AM EDT up reply actions
Or a punt, pass and kick girl with a Tom Brady jeresy after the Pats beat the Eagles.
Just rub some dirt on it
by Trailblaza05 on Mar 23, 2011 11:37 AM EDT up reply actions
Classic Philly. Why, despite being 6’7"/270, it’s the only place I’d be afraid to go wearing an opponent’s jersey.
"Goaltending is a normal job, sure. How would you like it in your job if every time you made a small mistake, a red light went on over your desk and 15,000 people stood up and yelled at you." - Jacques Plante
6’7"/270? You’re in my crew now…
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
Holy shit.
That also explains the whole basketball coaching thing a bit.
Life With Spidey -- a blog about sports, travel, work, family and fun.
Representing Caps fandom in the Gateway to the West.
You’re in my crew now…
You’re with me, Stemmer.
"My favorite fan base in D.C. Is United's. Period. The end." - Steinberg
by Bald Pollack on Mar 23, 2011 8:31 AM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
BP – back off. JP had him first, and I’ve got dibs in the next JR pick-up game.
Life With Spidey -- a blog about sports, travel, work, family and fun.
Representing Caps fandom in the Gateway to the West.
Center in HS, power forward in (Div III) college, out of shape for pick-up now. The girls I coach run rings around me. I would love to be included in a JR pick-up game, even have a 1st class gym in Oakton, VA. we can use, but I would need 3 weeks notice, minimum.
"Goaltending is a normal job, sure. How would you like it in your job if every time you made a small mistake, a red light went on over your desk and 15,000 people stood up and yelled at you." - Jacques Plante
Div III where?
Life With Spidey -- a blog about sports, travel, work, family and fun.
Representing Caps fandom in the Gateway to the West.
Hamilton…upstate NY. Early 80’s.
"Goaltending is a normal job, sure. How would you like it in your job if every time you made a small mistake, a red light went on over your desk and 15,000 people stood up and yelled at you." - Jacques Plante
Williams late 1980s. Made the trek there on several occasions as student manager of the ice hockey team – in the Guy Hebert days.
In fact, back then he wasn’t Gee Haybair. He was Guy Hebert.
Life With Spidey -- a blog about sports, travel, work, family and fun.
Representing Caps fandom in the Gateway to the West.
Ah Sage Rink. Great place to see a game, brutal for opponents. Did Eruzione’s brother go to Williams? I remember taunting him mercilessly (mercifully?) but can’t remember his team. Hebert was a huge deal at HamTech, but I totally missed him, as I graduated in ’85.
"Goaltending is a normal job, sure. How would you like it in your job if every time you made a small mistake, a red light went on over your desk and 15,000 people stood up and yelled at you." - Jacques Plante
Eruzione’s brother doesn’t ring a bell. At least not while I was there.
Life With Spidey -- a blog about sports, travel, work, family and fun.
Representing Caps fandom in the Gateway to the West.
Who knew we had so many NESCAC representatives on this board? I’m feeling it.
by BradleyFightingVehicle on Mar 23, 2011 9:52 AM EDT up reply actions
NESCAC is what’s up.
I have planned my grand attacks; I will stand behind their backs. With my brand new battle-axe, they will taste my wrath. They will hear me say as the pavement whirls, "I hate California girls."
by Steckel Me Elmo on Mar 23, 2011 9:53 AM EDT up reply actions
It is all about the NESCAC. Be NESCAC or be, well, something else.
Life With Spidey -- a blog about sports, travel, work, family and fun.
Representing Caps fandom in the Gateway to the West.
T U F T S, T U F T S, hoorah, hoorah, the dear ol’ brown and blue.
by 718CapsFan on Mar 23, 2011 1:17 PM EDT via mobile up reply actions
Theocritus, Thucydides,
The Peloponnesian War,
X squared, Y squared,
H2SO4.
Who for? What for?
What the hell are we cheering for?
GOOOOO, MAROONS!
by Berube Doobie Doo on Mar 23, 2011 1:28 PM EDT up reply actions
Okay, that’s demonstrably cooler
by 718CapsFan on Mar 23, 2011 2:53 PM EDT via mobile up reply actions
Where did you go?
Life With Spidey -- a blog about sports, travel, work, family and fun.
Representing Caps fandom in the Gateway to the West.
Where did you go?
Life With Spidey -- a blog about sports, travel, work, family and fun.
Representing Caps fandom in the Gateway to the West.
I went to Bates, where SME currently is.
by BradleyFightingVehicle on Mar 23, 2011 11:22 AM EDT up reply actions
I’ll chime in that I’m at least familiar with it — my Norwich Cadets face NESCAC opponents all the time :) 7-1-2 against NESCAC this year… MUHAHAHAHAHAA
Made that trip as well. In fact, watched as most of the hockey team got ill on the bus home from sandwiches we picked up there.
Life With Spidey -- a blog about sports, travel, work, family and fun.
Representing Caps fandom in the Gateway to the West.
Hah, doesn’t surprise me XD What year did you go?
Speaking of DIII hockey, I’m flying from DC to St Paul, MN to see the national championships this weekend. Gonna be a blast!
Lucky! I went to a D3 school and have lots of fond memories of our (admittedly awful) hockey team. Who is playing in St. Paul?
Pledge Drive 2010-2011: SO KIDS CAN!! Help build a playground
Norwich, St Norbert, Oswego, and Adrian.
Meanwhile, the Norwich DIII Women just took the national championship as well. Woot!
ah, very familiar with St. Norbert. they regularly delivered a beatdown on us.
Pledge Drive 2010-2011: SO KIDS CAN!! Help build a playground
I’m a St. Norbert alum. Where did you go?
by Eggseronius on Mar 23, 2011 12:06 PM EDT up reply actions
Yikes, you were up in the sticks. I don’t remember any games against Northland, I primarily remember St. Scholastica as being our whipping boy.
by Eggseronius on Mar 23, 2011 12:53 PM EDT up reply actions
didn’t add hockey until 1998, and didn’t get full NCAA membership until 2002, so that might be why you don’t remember Northland. Played lots against St. Scholastica, MSOE, Marian, Finlandia….
“sticks” is being polite about it! Had to go to Duluth for anything approaching civilization. I did get to cover the Bierkie race one year, which was cool.
Pledge Drive 2010-2011: SO KIDS CAN!! Help build a playground
Graduated Williams 1988.
Life With Spidey -- a blog about sports, travel, work, family and fun.
Representing Caps fandom in the Gateway to the West.
I went to Rochester in the early 1980s (1981-1985). Went to all the home basketball games…. did you make any trips to UR during your time there?
Washington Capitals 2009-10 = Quebec Nordiques 1994-95
--- D'ohboy
by MikeL-Pivonka on Mar 23, 2011 11:47 AM EDT up reply actions
Not sure if this is for me….no UR trip that I recall. The woman I coach with now, though, I believe is still the all-time (or one of them at least) leading scorer for UR’s women’s team. She would have been there a few years before you, late ’70’s graduating class I think.
"Goaltending is a normal job, sure. How would you like it in your job if every time you made a small mistake, a red light went on over your desk and 15,000 people stood up and yelled at you." - Jacques Plante
Go Blue! (Hamilton ’94.)
Six Beers Too Many fantasy team: It's Neu-virth Than Usual
"I wake up in the middle night frustrated because we lost out in the first round and I want to see our players hoist the Stanley Cup." -Brooks Laich
by CapitalCentre on Mar 23, 2011 3:44 PM EDT up reply actions
Put ‘er there. Who woulda thought I’d meet fellow Continentals here.
"Goaltending is a normal job, sure. How would you like it in your job if every time you made a small mistake, a red light went on over your desk and 15,000 people stood up and yelled at you." - Jacques Plante
F&B and I periodically get into the argument below. Now we can have each other’s backs.
Six Beers Too Many fantasy team: It's Neu-virth Than Usual
"I wake up in the middle night frustrated because we lost out in the first round and I want to see our players hoist the Stanley Cup." -Brooks Laich
by CapitalCentre on Mar 23, 2011 5:46 PM EDT up reply actions
Should have gone to school in the town named Hamilton rather than the school named Hamilton.
First Round Exit! (Clap Clap ClapClapClap) First Round Exit!
by Rob Parker on Mar 23, 2011 4:24 PM EDT via mobile up reply actions 1 recs
The only person I know that goes there is spending almost half of his time in college at not Hamilton.
I have planned my grand attacks; I will stand behind their backs. With my brand new battle-axe, they will taste my wrath. They will hear me say as the pavement whirls, "I hate California girls."
by Steckel Me Elmo on Mar 23, 2011 4:37 PM EDT up reply actions
Toothpaste U?
"Goaltending is a normal job, sure. How would you like it in your job if every time you made a small mistake, a red light went on over your desk and 15,000 people stood up and yelled at you." - Jacques Plante
Jokes like that got you in to Hamilton, eh.
First Round Exit! (Clap Clap ClapClapClap) First Round Exit!
by Rob Parker on Mar 23, 2011 5:33 PM EDT up reply actions 2 recs
Hm, me plus 60 pounds. I even have the same charter member puck (it was a gift though). We’re like brothers!
No man is an Islander.
by Flash in the Pan on Mar 23, 2011 11:34 AM EDT up reply actions
The puck is my wife’s. Her dad was a Charter STH and she, starting at 8 years old, went to all the games with him.
"Goaltending is a normal job, sure. How would you like it in your job if every time you made a small mistake, a red light went on over your desk and 15,000 people stood up and yelled at you." - Jacques Plante
Same, and I’m 6’9, 50lbs.
Old Weird Harold’d!
by Berube Doobie Doo on Mar 23, 2011 11:59 AM EDT up reply actions
It wasn’t terrible, but then again I was in a big group of caps fans. We got called communists though.
Follow me!
Currently Netflixing: Arrested Development - Season 2
There’s a reason Philly fans are notoriously the worst. I have never been around more fickle fans in my life.
I lived there early 90’s in the days of Randall Cunningham and Erick Lindros. I remember that the opinions of both were based on one thing only: their most recent game. When Cunningham threw for two TDs and ran another and the Eagles won, he was god. Throw a couple of picks and the Eagles lose, and he needs to take the next truck going west on the turnpike. Same for Lindros. It was downright embarrassing to the city.
Life With Spidey -- a blog about sports, travel, work, family and fun.
Representing Caps fandom in the Gateway to the West.
PA is the angry capital of the world…it’s not just sports…try working with them…bitter as bitter can be.
And yet, at the center, the sweetest place on earth.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
No. Allentown.
Life With Spidey -- a blog about sports, travel, work, family and fun.
Representing Caps fandom in the Gateway to the West.
The best unintentionally dirty place-name I know of.
by Berube Doobie Doo on Mar 23, 2011 9:49 AM EDT up reply actions
And….scene.
"My favorite fan base in D.C. Is United's. Period. The end." - Steinberg
by Bald Pollack on Mar 23, 2011 9:56 AM EDT up reply actions
Allentown? Ugh, I’m so sorry. We used to go there every year for a big gymnastics competition. In February. Never failed to depress my 13 year old self.
Pledge Drive 2010-2011: SO KIDS CAN!! Help build a playground
Heading OT, but I once was in the eatery in the airport and saw, halfway across the room, a 2-year-old vomit all over her mother. No one moved to help them. The father/husband walked 10 feet to a maintenance person and asked to borrow his/her mop and cleaned up himself. The entire room watched.
Life With Spidey -- a blog about sports, travel, work, family and fun.
Representing Caps fandom in the Gateway to the West.
I blame Breezewood for all of it.
"Goaltending is a normal job, sure. How would you like it in your job if every time you made a small mistake, a red light went on over your desk and 15,000 people stood up and yelled at you." - Jacques Plante
Not to be an apologist for Flyer fans at the game (and yes, there were quite a few assholes, even in our suite), but the Mite wasn’t booed; just his comment about Bob being his favorite player (and yes, this was after Bob was pulled in the second). I hear that all the time in Hershey, when kids being interviewed say the Pens are their favorite team (or Crosby their favorite player).
The kid even garnered some laughs when asked if this was his greatest performance and he responded “No.” He did get a round of applause after the interview was over. (BTW, Guerin could take some lessons from the Philly host as to how to get more than a “yeah” or “uh-huh” out of a mite during an interview).
"I remembered when he said that and I kind of looked at him during the warm up and told myself that I got to shut these guys out tonight." - Michal Neuvirth, 02.06.11.
Boo-ing a kid vs boo-ing what a kid says might be too fine a distinction for some.
by Berube Doobie Doo on Mar 23, 2011 11:14 AM EDT up reply actions
Kid was a goalie. Gotta figure he’s use to it by now.
"I remembered when he said that and I kind of looked at him during the warm up and told myself that I got to shut these guys out tonight." - Michal Neuvirth, 02.06.11.
Not at the Mite level. But thankfully kids that age are kinda clueless too so perhaps he didn’t notice.
"Hockey won’t hold still for a portrait. To gain a glimpse inside you join it in progress—just as the players do."--epilogue of 24/7
by capsyoungguns on Mar 23, 2011 11:36 AM EDT up reply actions
Maybe he should do Crosby interviews.
If you've read this far...seek help.
by ThePeerless on Mar 23, 2011 11:41 AM EDT up reply actions
Why can’t we have a lovable dancing chubby guy? Why do we have to settle for that raccoon who can’t interview?
Follow me!
Currently Netflixing: Arrested Development - Season 2
From the Broadstreet Hockey recap:
Tonight, the Flyers put in a full 60 minute effort [and] proved they were better than the Washington CapitalsReally? Yeah, they were pretty dominant, but over a team that was missing how many star players? Not to mention the fact that they still lost? I would argue that all they proved last night is that, no matter how good they are, their goaltending is still going to do them in sooner rather than later.
Really? I’d give them a full 45 minutes, because I have no clue where the Flyers were the first 20 minutes of that game.
by JimCareyFanClub on Mar 23, 2011 8:33 AM EDT up reply actions
If hey give that level of effort and lose what happens when they give 95 percent? 90 percent?
If you've read this far...seek help.
True… Philly, Detroit, and Vancouver seemed like they all just kept coming in waves. Whenever they passed the puck, there was purpose and at times, it looked like they had 6 or 7 guys on the ice. Philly is so deep at forward, and should be even better once Pronger gets back, but unless they plan on only allowing 10 shots a game, that goaltending is pretty rough to get them a championship.
by JimCareyFanClub on Mar 23, 2011 8:49 AM EDT up reply actions
More like what happens when they get competent goaltending that doesn’t dig them a 3-0 deficit early in the second.
I have planned my grand attacks; I will stand behind their backs. With my brand new battle-axe, they will taste my wrath. They will hear me say as the pavement whirls, "I hate California girls."
by Steckel Me Elmo on Mar 23, 2011 9:55 AM EDT up reply actions
Sure. But the goalies are part of the team, competent or not, so if the rest of the team plays well and the goalie doesn’t, it’s still a judgement on how the team as a whole played.
Sunrise, sunset, swiftly fly the years. One season following another, laden with happiness and tears.
Exactly. It drives me crazy every time I read a story saying the team played great but the goalie lost it for them. Sorry, but the goalie’s part of the team, maybe the most important part, and you can’t just exclude him from the equation. If the goalie is mediocre, then so is your team.
What if your goalie—who, on the season, is no worse than average in performance—turns in a game that a replacement level goalie could have bettered?
Unlucky goaltending. On both sides, but more on Philly’s.
My blog and Twitter, featuring coverage of the most frustrating team in the NHL
If you don't know how to use Timeonice, read this.
Behindthenet quick link to QoC/QoT/Corsi/PDO/Zonestarts
"Numbers don't lie, they just don't agree with you"--George E. Ays
If I reference a lot of stats, just assume I haven't seen anything to contradict or invalidate them.
by red army line on Mar 23, 2011 12:32 PM EDT up reply actions
Unlucky is a bad bounce. Playing poorly is not unlucky.
by Eggseronius on Mar 23, 2011 12:46 PM EDT up reply actions
What makes you think that was truly Bob’s game? Pretty clear to me that he had an off night. Boucher I’ll buy as having a normal night.
My blog and Twitter, featuring coverage of the most frustrating team in the NHL
If you don't know how to use Timeonice, read this.
Behindthenet quick link to QoC/QoT/Corsi/PDO/Zonestarts
"Numbers don't lie, they just don't agree with you"--George E. Ays
If I reference a lot of stats, just assume I haven't seen anything to contradict or invalidate them.
by red army line on Mar 23, 2011 12:49 PM EDT up reply actions
No doubt it was an off night, so I guess to some degree you could say from the Caps side of things that they were lucky to catch him on a night when he was playing so poorly.
However, from the Flyers point of view, they have a goalie who is capable of turning in a real stinker of a game. Just because he wasn’t playing his best doesn’t mean they were unlucky.
Semantics, then.
My blog and Twitter, featuring coverage of the most frustrating team in the NHL
If you don't know how to use Timeonice, read this.
Behindthenet quick link to QoC/QoT/Corsi/PDO/Zonestarts
"Numbers don't lie, they just don't agree with you"--George E. Ays
If I reference a lot of stats, just assume I haven't seen anything to contradict or invalidate them.
by red army line on Mar 23, 2011 1:14 PM EDT up reply actions
I don’t think it was an off night. This is who Bobrovsky is at this point in the season and his young career. Since the All-Star Game he was 5-5-2, 2.91, .905 before last night. In his last five appearances before last night he allowed four or more goals twice, and in another appearance he allowed three goals on 18 shots in 33 minutes of relief work. Now add to that a three-goal on nine shot performance in barely 21 minutes. He escaped the decision last night, but he is still only 10-9-3 against current playoff qualifiers. I think Bobrovsky in goal for the playoffs for the Flyers is going to mean a quick exit. He’s hit a wall.
If you've read this far...seek help.
I read it as being specifically in reference to the skaters. Which would be entirely accurate. They fully outplayed the Caps.
I have planned my grand attacks; I will stand behind their backs. With my brand new battle-axe, they will taste my wrath. They will hear me say as the pavement whirls, "I hate California girls."
by Steckel Me Elmo on Mar 23, 2011 1:40 PM EDT up reply actions
Cycling behind Neuvirth, that’s where.
My blog and Twitter, featuring coverage of the most frustrating team in the NHL
If you don't know how to use Timeonice, read this.
Behindthenet quick link to QoC/QoT/Corsi/PDO/Zonestarts
"Numbers don't lie, they just don't agree with you"--George E. Ays
If I reference a lot of stats, just assume I haven't seen anything to contradict or invalidate them.
by red army line on Mar 23, 2011 12:30 PM EDT up reply actions
If they proved they were better, why didn’t they win? The Capitals were better last night. They were outplayed in stretches, but they were better, because they won.
Life With Spidey -- a blog about sports, travel, work, family and fun.
Representing Caps fandom in the Gateway to the West.
Meh, Caps got lucky that bob sucked so badly. That said they might not have eased up so much if bob hadn’t let three goals in so quickly.
But yes this is one of those times where, as a caps fan winning is the only thing that mattered.
Suspend Colin Campbell!
I will take 16 of these beginning April 13.
Life With Spidey -- a blog about sports, travel, work, family and fun.
Representing Caps fandom in the Gateway to the West.
Wins – of course.
Life With Spidey -- a blog about sports, travel, work, family and fun.
Representing Caps fandom in the Gateway to the West.
Just saying, no one won a hockey game in Philly last night. That was a tie.
by Berube Doobie Doo on Mar 23, 2011 9:33 AM EDT up reply actions
Disagree. You can only play the game with the rules you’re given. The Caps won last night whether we like the set-up or not.
Does it offer much in terms of predictive value? Of course not. But that was no more a tie than it was a Caps loss because they were outplayed.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
I know I’m in the minority here, but I like the OT/SO rule as it is. Give a point for ties without the incentive to get another later, you see lots of boring prevent-D hockey at the end of games. I know, I saw it all the time growing up.
"Goaltending is a normal job, sure. How would you like it in your job if every time you made a small mistake, a red light went on over your desk and 15,000 people stood up and yelled at you." - Jacques Plante
I’d rather two points for the win and zippy for any sort of loss, but the tacit understanding here is that shootouts have so little to do with actual hockey that it’s unfair to not give a point to someone who only loses because they’re circus seals get out-performed.
Ditch the shootout. Increase OT to 10 minutes. Two points for a win, one each if it’s tied after 10, nothing for a loss. Boom.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
How about 2 points for a win, in regulation or OT and nothing for a tie for either team? If you tie, you both lose! No more playing for a tie! : )
by kingbonehead on Mar 23, 2011 9:45 AM EDT up reply actions
I understand the SO offends purists, same as soccer (I assume – not a fan). But there’s something to be said for the young fans it brings in. I have two boys – 11 and 7 – and they both sat open-jawed watching the full SO replay this morning before they went to school.
10 minutes seems like a long time to me. Would the NHLPA need to approve that?
"Goaltending is a normal job, sure. How would you like it in your job if every time you made a small mistake, a red light went on over your desk and 15,000 people stood up and yelled at you." - Jacques Plante
I’ve come around on the solution proposed by others:
3 points for regulation win
2 points for OT/shootout win
1 point for OT/shootout loss
0 points for regulation loss.
8 minute long OT, 4v4 for 4 mins, 3v3 for 4 mins. You won’t see many shootouts, and there’s lots of motivation to win in regulation.
by Berube Doobie Doo on Mar 23, 2011 9:55 AM EDT up reply actions
Why not 5v5 and 4v4? 3v3 seems gimmicky to me.
by DrinkingPartner on Mar 23, 2011 9:57 AM EDT up reply actions
It is gimmicky, but a lot less gimmicky than a shootout. The idea is to end the game quickly for the benefit of TV broadcasters. 5v5 isn’t likely to produce a goal in 4 minutes of play.
by Berube Doobie Doo on Mar 23, 2011 10:03 AM EDT up reply actions
Has the league always been based on the 2 point system, and if so, would you see that getting in the way of establishing a 3 point system. The 3 point system would mess with record holders and what not.
Live every week like its Matt Bradley week.
by CarltonBanks on Mar 23, 2011 10:14 AM EDT up reply actions
Yeah, I thought about that. It’s probably got some validity to it. But you could still tabulate the records of past teams based on the new 3-point system.
There used to be a 4-columned scoring system based on wins-losses-OTLs-ties. This wouldn’t be all that different.
by Berube Doobie Doo on Mar 23, 2011 10:23 AM EDT up reply actions
The extra points for OT have already messed with record holders.
by RCheli on Mar 23, 2011 11:46 AM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
Amazing series, this year. Both teams end with 2-0-2 records, with the four games ending in OT, SO, OT, and SO. Each team spliting their home records. If they were to meet in the Conference Finals, it could be another epic.
"I remembered when he said that and I kind of looked at him during the warm up and told myself that I got to shut these guys out tonight." - Michal Neuvirth, 02.06.11.
Identical scores too – 3-2 for the OT wins, 5-4 for the SO wins.
You perhaps knew me better as "Your Nation's Capital." Same great commentary, now with 100% more transparency!
Do-DO-do-do, do-DO-do-do.
"I remembered when he said that and I kind of looked at him during the warm up and told myself that I got to shut these guys out tonight." - Michal Neuvirth, 02.06.11.
Beethoven’s 5th?
Life With Spidey -- a blog about sports, travel, work, family and fun.
Representing Caps fandom in the Gateway to the West.
That’s a better choice, now that I look at it again.
Life With Spidey -- a blog about sports, travel, work, family and fun.
Representing Caps fandom in the Gateway to the West.
I think it was much more of a tie than a loss, for obvious reasons. A shootout is not hockey.
Yes, you play within the rules. But that doesn’t mean that the Caps won a hockey game. They won an NHL regular season game that was tied after all the hockey was finished.
by Berube Doobie Doo on Mar 23, 2011 9:53 AM EDT up reply actions
problem is, you won’t get 16 wins like that in the playoffs. That sort of effort won’t cut it. Maybe a game or two, but not 16. I’ll take it, it shows they can win while being spat on even if it is through a shoot out, but it shouldn’t have happened like that. we should have won out right with a 3 goal lead. Isn’t this the 3rd time this year we’ve blown a 3 goal lead in the 4th?
This does not bode well.
Suspend Colin Campbell!
I got frustrated last night, and I’ll get frustrated again.
That games bodes nothing, nada, zilch, zip. It’s one game of 82. It means zero. How many times have the Caps blown a three goal lead this season? Any others? Do they make a habit of it? No. In fact, the Capitals have the best record in the league after being down 1-0.
Who is to say that the Capitals wouldn’t have won in OT? They were the better team in the five minutes that is regular season OT.
Let’s stop extrapolating negativity about a game where the Caps were missing three of their top players, were in the middle of a six-game roadie, and got the two points they needed within the rules.
Life With Spidey -- a blog about sports, travel, work, family and fun.
Representing Caps fandom in the Gateway to the West.
by STLSpidey on Mar 23, 2011 10:16 AM EDT up reply actions 2 recs
not to rain on your parade, because I generally agree with what you’re saying. But I believe the Caps blew a three goal lead to Toronto in December. Caps lost in OT (or the SO, can’t remember)
Pledge Drive 2010-2011: SO KIDS CAN!! Help build a playground
Four-goal lead and a shootout loss, if I’m remembering right. That was a bad one. They had a few in a short span but in general they’ve either played close games or gotten better at holding the bigger leads.
Sunrise, sunset, swiftly fly the years. One season following another, laden with happiness and tears.
Only a 3-goal lead… But still super painful.
by Berube Doobie Doo on Mar 23, 2011 10:25 AM EDT up reply actions
And they blew a 2-goal lead in the final 3 minutes, yes?
by Berube Doobie Doo on Mar 23, 2011 10:25 AM EDT up reply actions
Well there goes a couple thousand in trauma counselling gone down the drain.
Rice is great if you're really hungry and want to eat two thousand of something.
by Rather Bengt on Mar 23, 2011 10:26 AM EDT up reply actions
Wait – was I supposed to get paid or do the paying?
Life With Spidey -- a blog about sports, travel, work, family and fun.
Representing Caps fandom in the Gateway to the West.
those games, I believe, were acceptable and accepted aberrations. For the most part, the Caps play very, very, well holding a lead. A 1-goal lead is enough to expect victory, a 2-goal lead is usually enough to cement it.
I was so frustrated last night because this is not a team that gives up leads like they did. This team, at least in its current form, is usually very, very good at putting its skates on the throats of a trailing opponent. I don’t think an out-of-the-ordinary performance should so greatly diminish that.
Amen, brother. Not every painting is going to be the Mona Lisa and not every car is going to be a Ferrari. Sometimes you’re going to play a great game and lose and other times it’s the opposite. The bottom line is that good teams find a way to win when things aren’t going right for them which is what the Caps did last night. For my money, that’s a good sign.
by b.orr4 on Mar 23, 2011 10:24 AM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
Agreed. Last season, this type of game was a recurring theme. This season, not so much. I just chalk it up to forgetting how to play with a significant lead against a good team.
The team is playing really well since the deadline so it’s easy to forget the first 3/4 of the season, but I’d say the team was rather consistently plagued by a lack of effort and giving a shit throughout the first 3/4 of the season. They may be over that, but I think it would be a mistake to simply sweep the lack of effort after they went ahead 3-0 under the rug.
Dale Hunter would punch the 2010-2011 Caps right in the Kidneys
Follow me on Twitter
Oh, no doubt lack of effort has been a big problem, but this season it has usually been accompanied by us being down 3 goals, rather than up 3.
I’m not extrapolating negativity, I’m just tempering positivity. Sure they have the best record while down 1-0, but they don’t seem to have a great record being up 3-0 early either. If they get off to a great start they ease off. It’s happened a few times through out the season showing that despite changes to the system and roster they still have the tendency to sit back when they have a large lead. They do well when they score evenly or stack everything at the end.
On the plus side: we did score 4 goals against a good team who claims to be in play-off mode and we did win by the rules of the regular season. It seems a bit much to say that they showed grit or determination by eeking out the win, probably just a nose for the net and a smart coach setting up the shootout roster. I had a feeling people were getting ready to lambaste boudreau for putting hendricks out there first a la the lightning.
Suspend Colin Campbell!
I was at the game last night – the fans couldn’t believe it when Hendricks pulled that move in the shootout. The sense was, “Where did that come from?” Guess they didn’t see his moves from earlier in the year.
imagine, had Hendy not gotten that break away (which game was it?) and faked the goalie right out of his pads, we would never have gotten the singular joy of watching him score SO goals against bewildered goalies.
Pledge Drive 2010-2011: SO KIDS CAN!! Help build a playground
Jan. 22 against the Leafs. Ovie had a hat trick, and Hendricks left Giguere wondering where his jock strap was.
Matt Bradley: He has sensitive skin, no?
right, awesome. all I could remember was it was a former “name” goalie.
wonder if GifMasterD can work his magic on that one.
Pledge Drive 2010-2011: SO KIDS CAN!! Help build a playground
I agree with Spidey. As much as I was frustrated with how badly we were outworked for most the the 2nd and 3rd periods, this game had lots of mitigating factors. I don’t expect us to get outworked that badly that often in the postseason, and it’s actually kind of a good sign that we can get outworked and still win, even with the best player on the planet cooling his heels.
Why put off 'til tomorrow what you can put off 'til the day after tomorrow?
I’ll take a 3 goal lead going into the 4th any day.
First Round Exit! (Clap Clap ClapClapClap) First Round Exit!
by Rob Parker on Mar 23, 2011 4:48 PM EDT via mobile up reply actions
At first glance I was really pissed about this game. I felt like the Caps were getting bitch-slapped around for the final 45 minutes, but when I took some time to think about it, this game was indicative of nothing going forward, except for the fact that they need to change their approach when getting an early lead. They’ve grown so accustomed to playing in tight games, they’ve forgotten how to shut the door and put away good teams early. The whole “Prevent D” style where you turtle up like Claude Lemieux and hope to withstand an onslaught of shots isn’t going to work against good teams like Philly because they’ll keep coming and coming.
Also, I think if Ovechkin was healthy and in the lineup, Philly’s D-Men don’t take as many chances in jumping in on the rush. Last night they could knowing that the Caps were only putting out a couple of guys that could burn them on breakaways.
For now, I’ll enjoy the 2 points and be thankful that the team showed the resiliency to come back even after they blew the 3 goal lead.
by JimCareyFanClub on Mar 23, 2011 8:58 AM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
Agree on all counts. I actually was questioning guys saying it was “a statement game” and “a measuring stick” beforehand – because this is hardly either considering who is out and what these two teams have done in the past when healthy.
Sunrise, sunset, swiftly fly the years. One season following another, laden with happiness and tears.
Just echoed your comments Becca above. This game is no more a statement game than the other 81.
Life With Spidey -- a blog about sports, travel, work, family and fun.
Representing Caps fandom in the Gateway to the West.
Also, I think if Ovechkin was healthy and in the lineup, Philly’s D-Men don’t take as many chances in jumping in on the rush. Last night they could knowing that the Caps were only putting out a couple of guys that could burn them on breakaways.
Agreed. Edzo made a good related point in the 2nd intermission—no way Philly is so aggressive if it’s a 1 goal game. Three goal deficit brings out extreme score effects.
My blog and Twitter, featuring coverage of the most frustrating team in the NHL
If you don't know how to use Timeonice, read this.
Behindthenet quick link to QoC/QoT/Corsi/PDO/Zonestarts
"Numbers don't lie, they just don't agree with you"--George E. Ays
If I reference a lot of stats, just assume I haven't seen anything to contradict or invalidate them.
by red army line on Mar 23, 2011 12:34 PM EDT up reply actions
The Capitals were better last night. They were outplayed in stretches, but they were better, because they won.
Disagree. There is an element of luck in sports. The better team in a given game does not always win.
The Caps were outplayed from the tail-end of the first period until OT.
by LucyImHome on Mar 23, 2011 12:27 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
It’s a pointless argument, but you could also argue that the Caps took advantage of the time where they were playing better to a greater extent than the Flyers did. I guess it depends on how you define “better team”. Defining it as the team that wins seems the easiest (and most common).
Don’t get me wrong, I don’t think that in the grand scheme of things the Flyers are the better team. The Caps were short-handed last night and the four games the teams have played in ’10-11 have been about as close as possible.
I’m just saying that the Flyers were the better team last night. By a wide margin. The final score does not cancel that out.
If the season’s games against the Flyers are any indication, the teams have essentially played to a stalemate this year. Not just a stalemate but an evenly matched stalemate. Each team with one regular OT win, one shootout win, one regular OT loss, and one shootout loss. I recall that in one of our losses to the Flyers, they had a 2 goal lead in the third, we came back to tie, but lost in OT.
Rocking the Red for teams on the banks of the Potomac and at the Gateway Arch and Singing the Blues about Hockey.
Anybody who watched the game knows the view is far from suspect.
If that Caps roster played at that level against that Flyers roster ten times they might win one, maybe two games. Four straight for Philly would be no problem.
One win means no sweep, so it is beyond highly suspect. In the playoffs, which team plays better doesn’t matter – it’s which team scores more. The Caps have been the victim of that a number of times in recent years. They are showing that they can win games in which they don’t dominate, which is a huge step forward.
Matt Bradley: He has sensitive skin, no?
The Flyers skaters were better than the Caps skaters. But their goaltending was cover-your-eyes bad. The goalie is part of the team too. And frankly, minus the 1LW, 2C and 1D, I didn’t expect the Caps’ skaters to be better than Philly’s (minus their 1D).
Both teams had good things to take away, but I’ll happily take the resiliency, the clutch goal from Mackan, the good goaltending from Neuvy in a very difficult situation, and the 2 points.
I love comments like that, as if a game’s dynamic doesn’t play a role. First, Ovechkin is out, Pronger is out. That influences how teams prepare. Then, the Flyers got awful goaltending to start the game (actually, this is a problem they might not be able to solve — Bobrovsky hasn’t played well in a month of games, and Boucher doesn’t look like an answer). The Caps sat on a lead, letting the Flyers back into it. And even in getting back into it, Neuvirth suffered more bad luck (and bad play in front of him) than bad goaltending.
At full health and in 60-minute focus mode, these are likely very competitive teams, if very different in style. And had that been the case last night, the game probably still goes to overtime, but maybe a 2-2 score instead of 4-4. In the end, though, goaltending is going to kill that team, and that being the case, I don’t know that they are — right now — better than any team in the East in a playoff setting.
If you've read this far...seek help.
by ThePeerless on Mar 23, 2011 8:37 AM EDT up reply actions 2 recs
At full health and in 60-minute focus mode, these are likely very competitive teams, if very different in style.
Agree, and we’ve seen it in the other three matchups this year. It’s why I’ve been saying all along that a Caps-Flyers playoff series would be incredible (and was 3 years ago, for that matter). The Caps might very well lose that series but I wouldn’t say it if I thought they’d get swept in embarrassing fashion, either.
The Flyers have better forward depth, the Caps better goaltending and you could make the case that, when healthy, the Caps’ D corps isn’t much worse – if not equivalent to – the Flyers. I don’t buy for a second that Boynton and O’Donnell are better than the guys we’d have out there (52, 55, 27, 74, 6, 23, 3) when healthy.
Sunrise, sunset, swiftly fly the years. One season following another, laden with happiness and tears.
I don’t buy for a second that Boynton and O’Donnell are better than the guys we’d have out there (52, 55, 27, 74, 6, 23, 3) when healthy.
Well, I haven’t forgiven Schultz for that gaffe yesterday.
by redpezrocket on Mar 23, 2011 8:46 AM EDT up reply actions
I don’t want to know or hear what was said on CI when that happened.
Twitter.
Tea and Empathy.
"The sun always shines brightest after the moon goes down."
by Steck It Out on Mar 23, 2011 9:01 AM EDT up reply actions
What are the chances that Schultz takes a seat instead of Erskine if/when Poti returns?
by Berube Doobie Doo on Mar 23, 2011 9:02 AM EDT up reply actions
Poti hasn’t played in over 2 months. How can BB justify sitting a healthy player in favor of him, especially if Poti doesn’t come back during the regular season? He hasn’t had time to get back into a rhythm with any of the new guys, and the playoffs don’t seem like the best time to experiment with his health. All things being equal and all players being healthy, I don’t see how you can bench Schultz. He’s a big body and for the most part responsible in his own end (with the exception of his gaffe last night, obviously).
by JimCareyFanClub on Mar 23, 2011 9:08 AM EDT up reply actions
Depends on how he’s playing if/when that day ever arrives (and doesn’t one of them have to sit if/when Mike Green returns first?).
Schultz has the ocassional spectacularly bad gaffe. Could it cost a series? Sure, if it happens at the wrong time.
But in between those moments are much, much higher levels of defensive (and even some offensive) play than John Erskine is capable of. And it’s not close.
I’d go rather win or lose with Schultz, personally.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
Sure would be nice if we could get healthy and sit both… Or maybe Wideman sits once in a while, to keep him on his defensive toes.
What about Erskine’s beard? That’s got to be a heavily weighted factor.
by Berube Doobie Doo on Mar 23, 2011 9:39 AM EDT up reply actions
and Schultz has generally done a great job at neutralizing other teams bigger forwards, so it might also depend on the opponent.
Because now I can justify browsing and commenting during the work day with the argument that I am promoting my business.
by Sombrero Guy on Mar 23, 2011 10:03 AM EDT up reply actions
I agree with this. If there’s one thing I wish the Caps had more of it’s team physicality — not pugilism but punishing hitters. Against a team with a very aggressive forecheck (such as Philly, Rags, Pitt), it’s kind of nice to Ersk who will make them pay a little. (And this isn’t a “Schultz doesn’t hit” remark. It’s merely an observation that against some opponents, it’s a benefit to have someone who’s known more for physical play.)
Bruce -- you define me.
Haha, yeah…Schultz is much more of a “use my freakish wingspan to angle players to the outside” kind of player.
Because now I can justify browsing and commenting during the work day with the argument that I am promoting my business.
by Sombrero Guy on Mar 23, 2011 10:11 AM EDT up reply actions
In the end though, I don’t think enough can be said about Philly’s goaltending. Their ostensible Number One has a 3.51 GAA and .889 SV% in the month of March and seems to be getting worse rather than better. Whatever combination of eighteen skaters they put on the ice isn’t going to matter if they keep getting that kind of goaltending.
The problem the Flyers present for any team is that each of their four forward lines play the same way and are in the same ways dangerous. A team that has a weakness on their second or third D pair is going to have problems. With the Caps, it is explosiveness, even with a lower offensive output this season. And it seems as if there are teams out there that still do not take the Caps’ D and goaltending seriously.
If you've read this far...seek help.
Must have pained you to put 3 at the end of the list. Of course, you couldn’t just keep him off the list, which is where he’d be if we were healthy.
First Round Exit! (Clap Clap ClapClapClap) First Round Exit!
I don’t know that they are — right now — better than any team in the East in a playoff setting.
The East is a free-for-all this year. Who would you have in the conference finals? Boston vs. Caps?
Dale Hunter would punch the 2010-2011 Caps right in the Kidneys
Follow me on Twitter
Caps – Rangers, if the seeding allows.
by Berube Doobie Doo on Mar 23, 2011 9:57 AM EDT up reply actions
alas, looking more and more likely that Tort & Friends will be visiting in April. Get yer ponchos ready.
Pledge Drive 2010-2011: SO KIDS CAN!! Help build a playground
And, like last year, they are probably the worst possible first-round opponent for the Caps. But get ’em out of the way early.
If you've read this far...seek help.
by ThePeerless on Mar 23, 2011 10:07 AM EDT up reply actions
I don’t think the Rags will end in the 7 seed. Montreal and Tampa will slide down. Might be Pitt vs NYR 1st round.
by Berube Doobie Doo on Mar 23, 2011 10:08 AM EDT up reply actions
So, a 1st round matchup against Montreal. Great.
Why put off 'til tomorrow what you can put off 'til the day after tomorrow?
I’d be quite pleased with that draw.
by Berube Doobie Doo on Mar 23, 2011 1:34 PM EDT up reply actions
we definitely need to buy and distribute some red ponchos and signs like we did for game 5.
Because now I can justify browsing and commenting during the work day with the argument that I am promoting my business.
by Sombrero Guy on Mar 23, 2011 10:11 AM EDT up reply actions
instead of red rally tally, game 1 giveaway should be red ponchos.
Pledge Drive 2010-2011: SO KIDS CAN!! Help build a playground
Just label the seats behind the NYR bench the “splash zone” like they do at Sea World.
That'll make your weagle wink!
I love it when a plan comes together. I could only find clear ponchos, but someone else handed out red ones. My girlfriend and I made and passed out the signs. We didn’t even know the people sitting there but they jumped all over it, and were happy participants.
Because now I can justify browsing and commenting during the work day with the argument that I am promoting my business.
by Sombrero Guy on Mar 23, 2011 11:54 AM EDT up reply actions 13 recs
that was awesome. great work on the signs!
Pledge Drive 2010-2011: SO KIDS CAN!! Help build a playground
Getting OT, but I love how we bailed on bubble letters after the first F because i was running out of time.
Because now I can justify browsing and commenting during the work day with the argument that I am promoting my business.
by Sombrero Guy on Mar 23, 2011 12:37 PM EDT up reply actions
Right now, given the matchups today…
(1) PHL over (8) BUF in 6
(2) WAS over (7) NYR in 6
(6) MTL over (3) BOS in 7
(4) PIT over (5) TBL in 6
Second round:
MTL over PHL in 6
WAS over PIT in 5
Conference Final: WAS over MTL in 6
If you've read this far...seek help.
by ThePeerless on Mar 23, 2011 10:06 AM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
One one game 7 in the East? Bettman will cry.
by Berube Doobie Doo on Mar 23, 2011 10:09 AM EDT up reply actions
Hopefully your Montreal over Boston pick comes to fruition. Boston with a red-hot Tim Thomas probably scares me more than any team in the East.
Dale Hunter would punch the 2010-2011 Caps right in the Kidneys
Follow me on Twitter
I watched them live last week, and I was less than impressed. Seem…disjointed.
"Nothing." - Tuukka Rask, after being asked what he saw on Shea Weber's game winner in overtime.
by Chris Burton on Mar 23, 2011 10:15 AM EDT up reply actions
They’ve been off lately. It’s a crying shame. I’m all broken up about it.
:D
Sunrise, sunset, swiftly fly the years. One season following another, laden with happiness and tears.
I can tell. Kaberle looked horrible in both ends.
"Nothing." - Tuukka Rask, after being asked what he saw on Shea Weber's game winner in overtime.
by Chris Burton on Mar 23, 2011 10:20 AM EDT up reply actions
Clearly. I was at least expecting some offensive pop, but there was nothing.
"Nothing." - Tuukka Rask, after being asked what he saw on Shea Weber's game winner in overtime.
by Chris Burton on Mar 23, 2011 7:18 PM EDT up reply actions
Tim Thomas’s moustache is an abomination.
by Berube Doobie Doo on Mar 23, 2011 10:27 AM EDT up reply actions
I don’t know, it’s really impressive close up.
Not that close, mind you.
"Nothing." - Tuukka Rask, after being asked what he saw on Shea Weber's game winner in overtime.
by Chris Burton on Mar 23, 2011 10:32 AM EDT up reply actions
I think I would take Philly over Montreal in this scenario, despite their shitatuclar goaltending. If Montreal goes 7 with Boston…….ouch.
Pledge Drive 2010-2011: SO KIDS CAN!! Help build a playground
Agreed for the most part, but I think you’re really underrating Pittsburgh—Crosby or no Crosby—and Montreal.
Which reminds me—I guess now I know what it felt like to be a Habs fan last playoffs. Get an early lead and hang on for dear life.
My blog and Twitter, featuring coverage of the most frustrating team in the NHL
If you don't know how to use Timeonice, read this.
Behindthenet quick link to QoC/QoT/Corsi/PDO/Zonestarts
"Numbers don't lie, they just don't agree with you"--George E. Ays
If I reference a lot of stats, just assume I haven't seen anything to contradict or invalidate them.
by red army line on Mar 23, 2011 12:38 PM EDT up reply actions
I felt that both teams had major weaknesses last night and I’m a little surprised that the Flyers (and fans) are patting themselves on the back for that game. If the positions were reversed posters here would be all over the Caps for regaining the lead only to let a rookie, albeit a dangerous one, get a shot off to tie it up so late in the game. MaJo (or Jo Jo) was not covered well. That one was on the team, not just the goalie.
That being said, I’m envious of how well the Flyers can cycle and pressure. Felt like the Caps were back on their heels scrambling for far too long in the second and third.
"Hockey won’t hold still for a portrait. To gain a glimpse inside you join it in progress—just as the players do."--epilogue of 24/7
by capsyoungguns on Mar 23, 2011 11:48 AM EDT up reply actions
If that’s the best they’ve got, and they still gave up 4 goals, they should be very worried.
by Berube Doobie Doo on Mar 23, 2011 8:47 AM EDT up reply actions
Tonight, the Flyers put in a full 60 minute effort [and] proved they were better than the Washington Capitals
Hmm, I guess goalies don’t count as part of the team in Philadelphia.
by b.orr4 on Mar 23, 2011 8:57 AM EDT up reply actions 4 recs
Also, doesn’t that bode pretty well for us. Flyers basically played the best game they could of outside of goaltending and we still beat them playing a pretty mediocre game overall without 2 of our 3/4 best players. My Flyers fan friend pointed to the shoddy goaltending tonight, and I countered with the obvious argument that those are the only goalies on your roster, so that’s your team.
Ah, beer. The cause of and the solution to all of life’s problems. - Homer Simpson
Also, I’m not seasoned enough to notice a change in style but did the Capitals change their scheme at all when they went up 3-0? Their scoring chances diminished significantly and just seemed like a different team.
Ah, beer. The cause of and the solution to all of life’s problems. - Homer Simpson
They sat back. Not in a “we’ve got this” kind of way but in a way that seemed to signify that they knew they’d been outplayed and were lucky to be up by one goal let alone three.
Problem is with a team like Philly, and with a lineup that was missing guys and contained new lines, you’ve got to stay aggressive – I was thinking after the third goal that I’d like a few more Caps’ tallies as insurance for exactly that reason.
Sunrise, sunset, swiftly fly the years. One season following another, laden with happiness and tears.
The biggest problem in sitting back the way they did, IMO, is that it allowed Philly’s D to be very active on offense without much fear of giving up the breakaway going the other way. The Flyers routinely had their D jumping up in the play and creating chances.
Of course, with the captain in the lineup, things are probably a little different on that score.
Yeah that comment made me want to say something over there too. And not to go off on them, but the correct statement to say was “Tonight the Flyers put in a full 60 minute effort and proved tonight they were better than the Washington Capitals.”
Considering all 4 games between these 2 teams have gone to OT/SO, to make a definitive statement like that after losing a game they should of won is bonkers.
I also didn’t like the “Everyone knows if OT went another 5 minutes Philly puts one behind Neuvirth” (paraphrased) Because the Caps didn’t out chance and out shoot Philly in the 5 minutes of OT at all. Not to mention the writer can predict the future apparently. IF this was playoffs and full 20 minutes periods for OT and IF the caps reversed to playing like they did the last 45 minutes of the game, then its a good chance Philly would win. But none of those ifs were happening.
I know blogs don’t have to be “journalistically/politically correct” but it still bugs me when writers who crave credibility (bloggers) make definitive statements like that with very little or no basis behind it.
Bruce Boudreau when asked about Brooks Laich's return to the lineup, he said: "He just adds another dimension to our team. If it was puzzle, he just fits that thing. He completes us."
Brooks Laich completing everything from teams to tires and everything in between.
There is basis behind it. The Flyers thoroughly dominated and save unlucky goaltending—I say unlucky because you honestly can’t expect even an AHL goalie to give up three softies, and Bob-Boosh are NHL goalies—would’ve won, I think.
My blog and Twitter, featuring coverage of the most frustrating team in the NHL
If you don't know how to use Timeonice, read this.
Behindthenet quick link to QoC/QoT/Corsi/PDO/Zonestarts
"Numbers don't lie, they just don't agree with you"--George E. Ays
If I reference a lot of stats, just assume I haven't seen anything to contradict or invalidate them.
by red army line on Mar 23, 2011 12:41 PM EDT up reply actions
You can’t prove anything through speculation though. If they had proved they were better they would have won.
Suspend Colin Campbell!
The proof isn’t from speculation, it’s from watching the game. The “we had more goals therefore we were better” argument leaves a lot to be desired.
Me too, obviously. But being outplayed won’t get you more goals over the long run.
Last night’s game really isn’t all that important in the grand scheme things. If it was just a one night hiccup for the D, no worries. But I don’t want us to return to some of the inconsistent play we saw prior to the trade deadline.
by LucyImHome on Mar 23, 2011 1:17 PM EDT up reply actions 2 recs
Of course, we didn’t have more goals last night.
by Berube Doobie Doo on Mar 23, 2011 1:35 PM EDT up reply actions
I feel the same way about the “shootouts aren’t real hockey” and the “we were outplayed even though we won” statements. I can’t follow the official standings, the revised standings counting SO wins/losses as ties, and the revised standings based on level of play of both teams. Too confusing. So I’ll just accept the easiest of the three to follow as legitimate (and it is also conveniently used for playoff seeding). We won. They lost. 5-4.
You find it “too confusing” to watch a game and objectively analyze which team was better? There is nothing illegitimate about watching a sporting even and determining based on your knowledge of the game being played and the individual participants what has just taken place in front of you.
I have no problem with anyone analyzing the game and play. The problem I have is with saying the team that won wasn’t better. In the context of how a game is judged, the team with the higher score was better. Doesn’t mean that they were better for more minutes of play, or that the majority of their players were better, or that their goaltender was better, or that their coaching was better — all of these things contribute to the result, but the score is the overall deciderer (sorry, can’t think of a legitimate word). BTW, I agree that they dominated us for long stretches – so this argument is probably entirely over semantics.
by MikeBrady on Mar 23, 2011 2:16 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
Exactly.
The Flyers were better at cycling, physical play, getting open in front of the net, etc. for almost all of last night.
The Caps were better at getting more goals (including shootout charity goals).
That may not be a predictor of future success, but as they say, it’s how they assign the W.
"Inglewood Jack! Inglewood Jack!" - Coach Jules
by Alz Well That Ends Well on Mar 23, 2011 2:25 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
In the context of how a game is judged by me, the team with the higher score was better.
FFY
The team with with the most goals (or in the case of last night, the team with the same number of goals) was not always the better team. That is particularly true in hockey, where short-term luck seems to play a bigger role than other major sports.
The Flyers were better, the Caps were luckier.
If all we cared about was that one game, then sure. The Caps were better.
But we’re watching these games with an eye towards the future. And in that context, it matters very much how the teams played, irrespective of which plays ended up being goals for which teams. Such things often turn on luck, and something as simple as a puck bouncing over someone’s stick can be the difference between winning and losing, but it’s not necessarily predictive of future performance.
by Berube Doobie Doo on Mar 23, 2011 2:28 PM EDT up reply actions 4 recs
I’ll say this on it: the flyers seemed to scare and intimidate us last night. We did not play well. Their whole team played well except for one key piece: the goalie. If we’re going to give their most important player a…flier on his performance, I think we can give our guys a bit of one as well. If they’d played a more moderate game and the bob was still there he would have been pulled in the first period and probably would have gone back in in the third.
Suspend Colin Campbell!
I think we can give our guys a bit of one as well.
That’s where I’m at as well. Some Caps were uncharacteristically bad.
My blog and Twitter, featuring coverage of the most frustrating team in the NHL
If you don't know how to use Timeonice, read this.
Behindthenet quick link to QoC/QoT/Corsi/PDO/Zonestarts
"Numbers don't lie, they just don't agree with you"--George E. Ays
If I reference a lot of stats, just assume I haven't seen anything to contradict or invalidate them.
by red army line on Mar 23, 2011 1:16 PM EDT up reply actions
Speaking on that also, I would have expected Schultz not to have made that terrible turnover…does that goal still count?
Suspend Colin Campbell!
If you want it to.
My blog and Twitter, featuring coverage of the most frustrating team in the NHL
If you don't know how to use Timeonice, read this.
Behindthenet quick link to QoC/QoT/Corsi/PDO/Zonestarts
"Numbers don't lie, they just don't agree with you"--George E. Ays
If I reference a lot of stats, just assume I haven't seen anything to contradict or invalidate them.
by red army line on Mar 23, 2011 1:15 PM EDT up reply actions
At the same time, a half-decent ref doesn’t let that second PHI goal happen. Egregious holding the stick penalty was missed. Of course, WTF was Sasha doing after that. What a lazy defensive shift. That goal was huge, and it should never have happened. I didn’t see the game so maybe a PHI comeback was inevitable, but a goal in the final minute of the 2nd of a 2 goal game? That’s a huge momentum shift.
First Round Exit! (Clap Clap ClapClapClap) First Round Exit!
The Flyers were coming on strong after the Versteeg goal (1st one).
My blog and Twitter, featuring coverage of the most frustrating team in the NHL
If you don't know how to use Timeonice, read this.
Behindthenet quick link to QoC/QoT/Corsi/PDO/Zonestarts
"Numbers don't lie, they just don't agree with you"--George E. Ays
If I reference a lot of stats, just assume I haven't seen anything to contradict or invalidate them.
by red army line on Mar 24, 2011 12:00 AM EDT up reply actions
Look, the bottom line is that the Flyers definitely outplayed us last night. Yes we got the win, but play like that 10 times and that might be the only time we win.
The most important thing is for us to figure out a strategy to disrupt these cycling and puck-possession teams (Detroit looked similarly scary last week). Is BB up to the task? That will go a long way to determining if we can get the 16 wins we covet.
Why put off 'til tomorrow what you can put off 'til the day after tomorrow?
by LACapsFan on Mar 23, 2011 1:38 PM EDT up reply actions 2 recs
Solid post. Couldn’t agree more.
If you’re a Caps fan the final score last night should be almost irrelevant. How can the Caps avoid that kind of game from happening in the playoffs? Ovi and Arnott will obviously help, but I’m legitimately worried that our blue liners looked so lost against a good team.
Also, Green. Green gives us another puck mover so every d pair has a puck mover. At the moment, we have to field a pair such as Erskine-Hannan, Erskine-Schultz or Schultz-Hannan, who tend to have more problems moving the puck out of our zone.
Green ain’t coming back so fast, methinks.
by Berube Doobie Doo on Mar 23, 2011 2:29 PM EDT up reply actions
The most important thing is for us to figure out a strategy to disrupt these cycling and puck-possession teams
Cycle yourselves, and do it better. I like the patience and less-panicky play from this team when they’re faced with adversity. They’re pretty calm and stick to the plan. Maybe that can carry over to cycling—just cycle and cycle, like LA, and don’t get impatient (an issue with AO, I think).
My blog and Twitter, featuring coverage of the most frustrating team in the NHL
If you don't know how to use Timeonice, read this.
Behindthenet quick link to QoC/QoT/Corsi/PDO/Zonestarts
"Numbers don't lie, they just don't agree with you"--George E. Ays
If I reference a lot of stats, just assume I haven't seen anything to contradict or invalidate them.
by red army line on Mar 23, 2011 2:02 PM EDT up reply actions
Bingo. And I think the team is learning to do more and more of this – many goals in this recent hot streak have been created from cycling plays down low. I also think the improved D corps this year has been better at getting the puck out, though last night caused plenty of flashbacks to years past.
I chalk last night up to the Caps playing a supremely talented and deep team while missing some key weapons, and going into a shell after they went up 3-0.
I chalk last night up to the Caps playing a supremely talented and deep team while missing some key weapons, and going into a shell after they went up 3-0.
I’m really hoping this was the case.
I didn’t find their play patient or less-panicky last night. They seemed to wait for the puck to come to them, giving Philly the chance to get there as well. They also looked flustered by the pressure and turned over the puck along the boards or made some poor passing decisions. That said, I’m not concerned with what it means going forward. There are already enough injuries on the Caps; I’ll take winning in a SO over matching Philly’s physical game (and risking more injury) in a non-playoff game. The Caps were out-skated and out-shot last night, but luck was on their side. And it’s a great time to start getting lucky.
If Lurking equaled Learning, I'd be a force to be reckoned with.
Exactly. Panic was the first word that came to my mind as we gave up the puck time and time again in our own end.
Alzner and Schultz handed Philly the puck right in front of Neuvy on two separate occasions. We looked like a minor league team in comparison to how I saw the Wings gracefully and effortlessly clear their zone in Detroit.
you clearly weren’t watching the Wings Monday night, when it was apparently their turn to look like a minor league team.
Pledge Drive 2010-2011: SO KIDS CAN!! Help build a playground
my larger point is every team has nights where they look like world beaters, and nights where they look like the Carolina Stingrays would crush them. It’s not really worth getting too panicky (or exuberant) over. The Caps have had bad outings. So has Detroit (Monday vs. Pittsburgh, a couple weeks ago against Edmonton).
Unless Washington strings together several of these poor performances, I’m not going to worry about it.
Pledge Drive 2010-2011: SO KIDS CAN!! Help build a playground
by RedBirdie on Mar 23, 2011 2:54 PM EDT up reply actions 2 recs
Forgetting what this team looked like before? I didn’t see panic, I saw turnovers forced by an aggressive forecheck from D who arent’ fantastic at puck handling. None of those stretch passes and carry-in=the-zone-when-it-doesn’t-work stuff.
My blog and Twitter, featuring coverage of the most frustrating team in the NHL
If you don't know how to use Timeonice, read this.
Behindthenet quick link to QoC/QoT/Corsi/PDO/Zonestarts
"Numbers don't lie, they just don't agree with you"--George E. Ays
If I reference a lot of stats, just assume I haven't seen anything to contradict or invalidate them.
by red army line on Mar 24, 2011 12:02 AM EDT up reply actions
Caps prospect Caleb Herbert had the GWG and an assist in Sioux City’s win over Omaha in an USHL game last night; big game for Sioux City. Herbert continues to lead the team in goals and points even with games missed due to a tournament and injuries.
Article about the game with quotes from Herbert
There was a pregame video interview with Herbert posted the other day by the team, too.
And Kuznetsov will continue playing hockey, at least a little bit. He’s rejoining the Russian national junior team for a two-game fiendly with Belarus April 1 & 2. He’ll be playing for his WJC coach Valery Bragin, who already sounds like he misses Orlov something fierce.
You perhaps knew me better as "Your Nation's Capital." Same great commentary, now with 100% more transparency!
What are Kuz’s chances of making the men’s team for the Worlds?
by Berube Doobie Doo on Mar 23, 2011 8:59 AM EDT up reply actions
Hard to say. Coach Bykov was of the opinion that he needed a hard playoff run in the K to be prepared to play at a WC level, but there is (or at least was) a lot of pressure (from fans, media, maybe politicians) to put him on the team anyway.
He will at least get an invite to camp, I think.
You perhaps knew me better as "Your Nation's Capital." Same great commentary, now with 100% more transparency!
Bykov keeping his job is as infuriating as the World Cup being in Qatar.
by Berube Doobie Doo on Mar 23, 2011 9:45 AM EDT up reply actions
That two-game friendly...
Those two games on 04/01 and 04/02 seem to be for their national teams, not juniors. And Kuznetsov is apparently called up for them, along with Tarasenko and Panarin, at least that is what Bragin seems to say…
Yeah, sometimes the GT isn’t exact, and there are a lot of junior-age players listed on that team. But Bykov is the coach of the premier men’s team. Bragin is the coach of the “second unit” men’s team.
You perhaps knew me better as "Your Nation's Capital." Same great commentary, now with 100% more transparency!
True – but Bykov also happens to be Salavat’s coach. So while he is busy, Bragin gets the main team.
Interestingly, in the same interview with Bragin, he says Orlov is likely to return to Russia next year. Does he know something we don’t, or is Dima keeping two sets of books? ;-)
Considering he’s already here and playing impressively, I don’t see that happening. Hell, I think he’s got an outside shot of making the team outright, depending on player movement over the summer.
by DrinkingPartner on Mar 23, 2011 11:53 AM EDT up reply actions
Orlov is under contract. It would be a big fucking deal if he bolted to the KHL. Not to mention bizarre, considering his public statements about wanting to play in North America.
by Berube Doobie Doo on Mar 23, 2011 11:55 AM EDT up reply actions
He’d be banned from international play if he did that.
by wickedwitch on Mar 23, 2011 11:56 AM EDT up reply actions
He’s already been signed? When did that happen?
by DrinkingPartner on Mar 23, 2011 12:04 PM EDT up reply actions
morning playoff round-up! The East is pretty static right now, while the west remains far more interesting. Dallas and Calgary remain alive out west, but Minnesota has played themselves right out of the game with a terrible March. Carolina is lurking in the East, 3 points behind Buffalo.
Vancouver, Washington, and Philadelphia have clinched their spots; Vancouver is also your NW champ.
EAST
Philadelphia vs Buffalo
Washington vs NY Rangers
Boston vs Montreal
Pittsburgh vs Tampa
WEST
Vancouver vs Anaheim
Detroit vs Chicago
San Jose vs Nashville
Phoenix vs Los Angeles
Pledge Drive 2010-2011: SO KIDS CAN!! Help build a playground
Rangers and Canadiens are on the move in opposite directions. They could swap spots. The Lightning are dropping, too.
by Berube Doobie Doo on Mar 23, 2011 9:46 AM EDT up reply actions
Tampa’s 2-9 in their last 11 and they just lost consecutive games to the 14th and 15th place teams. At that rate, their going to be luck to not fall to the 8th spot.
They’ll still be dangerous if they get their shit together. I’d love to see Philly draw them 1st round.
by Berube Doobie Doo on Mar 23, 2011 10:04 AM EDT up reply actions
Yeah — and in just two games!
....when the truth is if they knew anything about the game, they'd be in it.
--GMGM
by redlineblue on Mar 23, 2011 11:53 AM EDT up reply actions
7-0 over the Flyers just recently. I guess it’s either feast or famine.
Don’t try to figure Sasha out. Just ride the wave.
I just looked it up, and they’re 7th in the NHL in scoring. That shocked me, as they just seem like they’re so offensively inept.
Callahan has been tearing it up lately. Whodathunkit…
by Berube Doobie Doo on Mar 23, 2011 12:02 PM EDT up reply actions
He’s such a good player. He’s one of the few Rangers I really like. (I’d like to slap Dubinsky in the face with a slab of bologna. I hate that guy.)
Oh man, I’d take Dubi in a second. And he an AO seem to get along and respect each other.
by DrinkingPartner on Mar 23, 2011 12:05 PM EDT up reply actions
Tampa’s defense is horrendous and their goaltending is spotty at best. They’ve got some great/very good forwards but little about them scares me in a playoff series.
Wonder if Jacques Lemaire had similar thoughts about another team heading into last year’s playoffs…
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
FML. Meant Martin. JacquesFail.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
Rolo has definitely fallen off a cliff. They look like hammered shit lately. But I have to believe that the playoffs are a different animal, and Tampa could regain their midseason division-leading form.
by Berube Doobie Doo on Mar 23, 2011 10:11 AM EDT up reply actions
They just need Guy Boucher to do his bug eyed screaming enthusiastic hand waving routine on the bench like he did before OT in the last game against the Caps.
Because now I can justify browsing and commenting during the work day with the argument that I am promoting my business.
by Sombrero Guy on Mar 23, 2011 10:16 AM EDT up reply actions
Anyone ever play Mutant Hockey on Sega back in the day? Guy reminded me of the coaches in that game…
by kingbonehead on Mar 23, 2011 10:55 AM EDT up reply actions
Big mouth net was the best.
"Don't mind WM...he's an all-around jerk."
by Whiter Mage on Mar 23, 2011 11:03 AM EDT up reply actions
Tampa is still the only team in a playoff spot in the East with a negative goal differential (-6). They’ve been in the red all season, for that matter. It was bound to catch up with them sooner or later.
Dale Hunter would punch the 2010-2011 Caps right in the Kidneys
Follow me on Twitter
they’re atrocious in the 3rd. I believe the 3rd period goal differential is around -30.
Pledge Drive 2010-2011: SO KIDS CAN!! Help build a playground
Ouch, that kills. Pens and Lightning are probably the most desirable opponents in the East.
Dale Hunter would punch the 2010-2011 Caps right in the Kidneys
Follow me on Twitter
Fun with numbers! The Lightning goal differential by period:
1st: +16
2nd: +14
3rd: -27
OT: +3
basically, if you can hang with Tampa through 2, you have a great chance of winning. And if you’re ahead after 2? Book it. Tampa has a terrible .182 winning percentage if they trail after 2. They’re not much better trailing after 1, either, sitting at a mere .300.
Pledge Drive 2010-2011: SO KIDS CAN!! Help build a playground
I think their third period fades and late season fade are not unrelated. They play an aggressive style that seems to burn their guys out, both within the context of a game and the season.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
by J.P. on Mar 23, 2011 10:30 AM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
I’ve got my fingers crossed that Tampa somehow falls to 7th.
Pledge Drive 2010-2011: SO KIDS CAN!! Help build a playground
Your 1st period number there is off – it should be +4, not +16. They’ve scored 70, had 66 against. I went and looked because your numbers didn’t add up – they indicated a positive differential.
Matt Bradley: He has sensitive skin, no?
There’s your lesson fellow JR denizens.
Check your work!!
Life With Spidey -- a blog about sports, travel, work, family and fun.
Representing Caps fandom in the Gateway to the West.
your lesson: don’t trust Birdie with numbers!
and thank you, Timmy! that would be my Watkins Mill math skills at work.
Pledge Drive 2010-2011: SO KIDS CAN!! Help build a playground
I’m wondering if you just read one number from the wrong place. It can happen to anyone – and has happened to me quite a few times.
Matt Bradley: He has sensitive skin, no?
probably. trying to do it quickly so I don’t get caught looking up NHL stats pages at work, too.
Pledge Drive 2010-2011: SO KIDS CAN!! Help build a playground
your lesson: don’t trust Birdie with numbers!
This is the same Birdie who’s handling all the JR charity funds, right? : )
"I remembered when he said that and I kind of looked at him during the warm up and told myself that I got to shut these guys out tonight." - Michal Neuvirth, 02.06.11.
by bagace on Mar 23, 2011 11:21 AM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
well, yeeeeeeeah. ignore what I wrote :)
not many numbers lately :( poor Greenie.
Pledge Drive 2010-2011: SO KIDS CAN!! Help build a playground
My wife tells me that since 74 and 6 are playing 52’s minutes, their stats count toward GreenStrife’s totals in Charity League play.
Is this true? Cause she’s tricky like that…
....when the truth is if they knew anything about the game, they'd be in it.
--GMGM
by redlineblue on Mar 23, 2011 11:34 AM EDT up reply actions
I’d be happy to take your wife’s donation if she feels that strongly :)
GreenStrife….I like it.
Pledge Drive 2010-2011: SO KIDS CAN!! Help build a playground
She’s tighter with a buck than BB — until you mention little kids doing without. Anyway, we will pad Greenie’s stats the best we can.
....when the truth is if they knew anything about the game, they'd be in it.
--GMGM
by redlineblue on Mar 23, 2011 11:50 AM EDT up reply actions
The thing I thought would let them down late is the one thing that has held up this month — goaltending. Eight of 13 games giving up two or fewer goals is not what I thought I’d be seeing from TBL. But they look like they’re running on fumes, especially Stamkos, who has three goals in his last 19 games.
No longer a lock for 50, and that probably means no 50-goal scorers this year, first time since 03-04
If you've read this far...seek help.
by ThePeerless on Mar 23, 2011 10:15 AM EDT up reply actions
It also takes some of the sting out of Ovie’s “off” year.
by Berube Doobie Doo on Mar 23, 2011 10:28 AM EDT up reply actions
In much the same way that the league started defensing against Ovechkin, the same has happened to Stamkos. You almost never see him score anymore on that one-timer from the wing on PP.
It seems like most of the previous top scorers are down. Last season, there were 7 40+ goal scorers. Only 2 of them – Stamkos and Crosby – are over 30 goals at this point.
Matt Bradley: He has sensitive skin, no?
only four are on a pace to hit 40: Stamkos, Perry, D. Sedin, and Kesler (and Kesler is iffy)
If you've read this far...seek help.
by ThePeerless on Mar 23, 2011 11:23 AM EDT up reply actions
YAY!
"Nothing." - Tuukka Rask, after being asked what he saw on Shea Weber's game winner in overtime.
by Chris Burton on Mar 23, 2011 10:15 AM EDT up reply actions
Via Chesnokov, looks like the Caps to Russia trip is off?
"My favorite fan base in D.C. Is United's. Period. The end." - Steinberg
Agreed. Really good news, IMO.
"Now wait a minute. This is just purely a social call. You know, just two adults getting a stew on, man."
by The Ghost of Bebop on Mar 23, 2011 9:54 AM EDT up reply actions
Good news overall, except that I was kind of looking forward to NHL hockey during a workday giving me an excuse to round up a few folks from the office to go drink beer at Tommy Joe’s.
by Berube Doobie Doo on Mar 23, 2011 9:59 AM EDT up reply actions
more from Chesnokov on Puck Daddy.
KHL sources said the reason there will be no NHL teams in Russia this season was the League’s revenue guarantee request. We were told the NHL asked for a guarantee of $2-$3 million for the trip to happen. The KHL saw it as unreasonable because of simple economics — the Russian league would not be able to break even due to Russian hockey economic streams.
Pledge Drive 2010-2011: SO KIDS CAN!! Help build a playground
Fail. Meant in reply to BP re: the Caps’ Russia trip being cancelled.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
Too bad, I was hoping you were about to post a link saying Mike Green is participating in full practice.
Dale Hunter would punch the 2010-2011 Caps right in the Kidneys
Follow me on Twitter
I understand Leonsis and McPhee might try to say no with Russia not an option, but this doesn’t mean a European opener is out completely, does it? I thought the rumor was Sweden and/or Russia. As we know, just because the KHL bailed, doesn’t mean the NHL is abandoning opening in Europe.
But perhaps it’s a different team if it’s a different country. Detroit is popular with the Swedes, too.
by Berube Doobie Doo on Mar 23, 2011 10:05 AM EDT up reply actions
Right-o. But a “no” on at least part of the trip (the part of the trip, btw, that would be particularly taxing to the team’s best player) is good news.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
Agree, just wanted to note that the rumors about game(s) in Sweden existed, too, as it relates to the Caps and eventually, the Caps are going to have to take their turn. Maybe with Russia a no-go, they manage to get out of it for ‘11-12. Of course, it’s still early and nothing I have seen so far says they couldn’t still scrimmage in Russia?
Anyone else going to the Hockey 4 Hope game?
It’s April 10 in Laurel, MD, with Caps alumni playing to raise money and awareness for late effects of cancer in children, and to raise money to help cure MS.
http://usawarriors.goalline.ca/news2.php?news_id=362360&lang=
New Date for this is April 10th at 1 p.m.
The Washington Capitals Alumni are holding the 1st Annual Hockey 4 Hope event. This is an event to fight the late effects of Childhood Cancer, and to help create a world free of Multiple Sclerosis. They will be playing against the USA Warriors, the Navy, and the Firefighters/Police. This event will be at Laurel- Gardens Ice House, 13800 Old Gunpowder Rd, Laurel, MD.
Admission is $10 for those that are interested.
Game will be at 1 pm.
There will be an autograph table featuring: Peter Bondra, Rod Langway, Gordie Lane, Yvon Labre & Sylvain Cote.
There's always more to learn about Hockey.
I might go if I don’t have to work. Mr. B is out of town.
Pledge Drive 2010-2011: SO KIDS CAN!! Help build a playground
COTE COTE COTE COTE COTE!!
Sunrise, sunset, swiftly fly the years. One season following another, laden with happiness and tears.
I’m fairly certain my parents have a picture somewhere of me wearing my little “Junior Fan Club” Cote shersey…anyone else remember those? They actually looked like jerseys but they were t-shirts. I think I slept in mine just about every night.
Sunrise, sunset, swiftly fly the years. One season following another, laden with happiness and tears.
Cote was my favorite player growing up.
"Don't mind WM...he's an all-around jerk."
by Whiter Mage on Mar 23, 2011 10:28 AM EDT up reply actions
I have a pair of Cote’s gloves. I may go just to get them signed.
by Eggseronius on Mar 23, 2011 12:01 PM EDT up reply actions
I’m going. My baby girl needs to see her first hockey outside of 120-decibel VC, and I need to get Langway’s autograph on my Langway jersey.
by Berube Doobie Doo on Mar 23, 2011 10:54 AM EDT up reply actions
Great! I wonder how Rinker’s will know each other. The ones who haven’t met yet, I mean.
There's always more to learn about Hockey.
Fanpost when the event approaches, I suppose.
by Berube Doobie Doo on Mar 23, 2011 11:00 AM EDT up reply actions
Wow… close to my house, and on a Sunday! I will definitely try to get there.
Matt Bradley: He has sensitive skin, no?
Wish they’d done something like that when I was growing up, since I grew up in Laurel. Of course, the closest rink at the time was in Beltsville, so I suppose it was a bit of a non-starter.
Geeks of All Nations, Compile!
by AMusingFool on Mar 24, 2011 12:05 PM EDT up reply actions
the goalie guild article was fascinating, and would be even without calling Neuvy “one of the more skilled and athletic goalies in the NHL.” It also made me realize I’d love to spend a day observing the stretch and flexibility regimen of NHL goalies.
Pledge Drive 2010-2011: SO KIDS CAN!! Help build a playground
I’d love to spend a day observing the stretch and flexibility regimen of NHL goalies.
For professional reasons, right? ;)
(Yes, I know about the avatar hounding - just pretend mine is invisible.)
seriously! I’d love to know if it differs from what I did when I used to run a stretch and flexibility class that was popular with hockey and baseball players.
Pledge Drive 2010-2011: SO KIDS CAN!! Help build a playground
No reason one can’t have a pleasurable learning experience.
"Hockey won’t hold still for a portrait. To gain a glimpse inside you join it in progress—just as the players do."--epilogue of 24/7
by capsyoungguns on Mar 23, 2011 11:50 AM EDT up reply actions
I couldn’t agree more. I’d even be willing to assist with any hands-on stretching and flexibility training they may need.
by creasemonkey on Mar 23, 2011 3:54 PM EDT up reply actions
How long did you stretch for? I know Kipper stretches for 90+ minutes before he takes the ice.
First Round Exit! (Clap Clap ClapClapClap) First Round Exit!
I’m one of those naturally flexible people; I still have full splits on both sides when I bother to do them (which is……..almost never.) I used to stretch 20 minutes before practicing. these days, I’m lazy and only stretch for 5 if I’m just goofing off on the trampoline, a little bit longer if I’m going to actually do combinations of skills. My class used to be 60 minutes, mixing up static and active flexibility work along with individual and partner stuff.
Pledge Drive 2010-2011: SO KIDS CAN!! Help build a playground
Happy Birthday to my favourite Cap ever.
Rice is great if you're really hungry and want to eat two thousand of something.
I should have. Damn the Canadian Budget being released to our store this morning.
Rice is great if you're really hungry and want to eat two thousand of something.
by Rather Bengt on Mar 23, 2011 10:43 AM EDT up reply actions
I should have took the day off too because its my birthday as well. Why am I at work????
Just rub some dirt on it
by Trailblaza05 on Mar 23, 2011 2:16 PM EDT up reply actions
Happy Birthday! :-)
Photography: I Rock the Red
Twitter: @IRockTheRed
E-mail: irockthered {at} gmail {dot} com
I thank ya both!
Just rub some dirt on it
by Trailblaza05 on Mar 23, 2011 2:58 PM EDT up reply actions
You don’t have to go too far; Nolan Baumgartner’s a plane ride away to Manitoba.
"My favorite fan base in D.C. Is United's. Period. The end." - Steinberg
by Bald Pollack on Mar 23, 2011 10:42 AM EDT up reply actions
It’s not a fun vacation when you are entering the dregs of Canada.
Rice is great if you're really hungry and want to eat two thousand of something.
by Rather Bengt on Mar 23, 2011 10:44 AM EDT up reply actions
Agreed! Happy Birthday Nolan Baumgartner!
Wait, what?
Washington Capitals 2009-10 = Quebec Nordiques 1994-95
--- D'ohboy
by MikeL-Pivonka on Mar 23, 2011 11:52 AM EDT up reply actions
Is there an awesome birthday fanpost on the way? Did I miss it?
Six Beers Too Many fantasy team: It's Neu-virth Than Usual
"I wake up in the middle night frustrated because we lost out in the first round and I want to see our players hoist the Stanley Cup." -Brooks Laich
by CapitalCentre on Mar 23, 2011 4:30 PM EDT up reply actions
Haven’t had a chance to with work being busy today. I have been negligent in my Birthday Bio duties lately and I apologize. I really would like to do a write-up for Bengt though.
In the meantime though, I fully recommend Bruce from the Oilers’ SBN site Copper and the Blue’s excellent piece on Bengt from a couple weeks back.
Rice is great if you're really hungry and want to eat two thousand of something.
by Rather Bengt on Mar 23, 2011 4:37 PM EDT up reply actions 3 recs
Mark Pysyk, twitter + Sabres superstar
http://www.banginpanger.com/2011/03/mark-pysyk-is-goal-oriented.html
Well, that’s amusing.
Larger constellations burning, mellow moons and happy skies,
Breadths of tropic shade and palms in cluster, knots of Paradise.
I sure hope that Pysyk makes it to the NHL so he can buy a couple of vowels for his name. They still go for $250 on Wheel of Fortune, right?
Washington Capitals 2009-10 = Quebec Nordiques 1994-95
--- D'ohboy
by MikeL-Pivonka on Mar 23, 2011 11:53 AM EDT up reply actions
In the Capitals’ first game without captain Alex Ovechkin, whom the team announced on Monday would miss seven to 10 games with an undisclosed injury
Umm, I’m pretty sure the Caps said 7-10 DAYS not games. Not an insignificant difference given that games 9 and 10 would be playoff games 1 and 2.
Then again, as noted the Caps injury predictions tend to be pretty bad, so she could end up being right…
Just trying to capture the spirit of the thing...
That quote was from Katie’s gamer…
Just trying to capture the spirit of the thing...
by dcsportsfan1 on Mar 23, 2011 11:03 AM EDT up reply actions
Why oh why can’t the Post have a grizzled veteran hockey journalist?
by Berube Doobie Doo on Mar 23, 2011 11:05 AM EDT up reply actions
Why oh why has the concept of editors disappeared when they are needed just as they were needed in the past.
I don’th think it takes a grizzled hockey veteran journalist to get some basic facts about the teams franchise player correct. I would agree that such things should typically be caught by an editor.
I suspect that she had written that part of her story well before the game so a “tight deadline” excuse doesn’t hold water with me.
Just trying to capture the spirit of the thing...
by dcsportsfan1 on Mar 23, 2011 11:29 AM EDT up reply actions
Yeah, that’s why he’s practicing this morning. During an optional practice. Think he wants back in?
Don’t try to figure Sasha out. Just ride the wave.
can you imagine how tweeked out he was last night? Didn’t they leave him in Arlington? Pity his mother.
Pledge Drive 2010-2011: SO KIDS CAN!! Help build a playground
it perplexes me why he was not on the trip to be with his team.
i mean, he’s nursing injuries by not playing on them. He doesn’t have a wife and kids to spend time with, and I really don’t see anything keeping him from being with his mates.
this is the same guy that drove his own car up to Philly to watch pre season games he wasn’t playing in. I’ll cut him some slack for staying behind if thats what the team wanted him to do.
Because now I can justify browsing and commenting during the work day with the argument that I am promoting my business.
by Sombrero Guy on Mar 23, 2011 12:31 PM EDT up reply actions
oh I’m not protesting his failure to be insubordinate and go up with his team. I’m questioning why he was not brought up with them in the first place if he’s a) skating, b) their captain, and c) in love with the sport of hockey.
probably because the Caps came back home last night. Had they had to hit the road immediately, they would have taken him. But a scratched Ovie in Philly would have ignited media madness. Caps probably didn’t want the distraction, Ovie probably didn’t want to be hounded about this mystery injury.
Pledge Drive 2010-2011: SO KIDS CAN!! Help build a playground
Not only did that, but travel is stressful on the body, even if you’re traveling by chartered jet. It’s more walking/moving/carrying luggage than he has to do, and the Caps were going to be back that night anyway.
by redpezrocket on Mar 23, 2011 1:54 PM EDT up reply actions
I was at the game, and Flyers fan next to me said Ovechkin was spotted on the club level.
"I don’t think too many guys try to talk to him and get him into the play ... if I can do that and it helps out our line then it’s what I’ll do." -- Jason Arnott on Alexander Semin
That was Olexander Avechkin, mustachioed look-alike.
"Inglewood Jack! Inglewood Jack!" - Coach Jules
by Alz Well That Ends Well on Mar 23, 2011 12:38 PM EDT up reply actions
"I was kind of surprised last night to stay in D.C.," Ovechkin said. "Last year when I have injury, I just travel with the team and watch the game upstairs and right now stay home and watch the games on TV and kind of strange."
This sig is brought to you by... Frungy, The Sport of Kings!
Maybe she’s talking in BB time. I mean, using those calculations, it kind of explains the timetable he gave for F-16’s absense after his collision with Steckel .
by creasemonkey on Mar 23, 2011 4:00 PM EDT up reply actions
IIRC, wideman’s goal deflected in off of the back of boucher’s stick. if it had gone straight through between his body and elbow, it would have sailed harmlessly wide of the net. instead, it hit the butt of the stick and sailed in.
on Wideman, I’m pretty sure TSlo could have put a better effort last night. That guy needs some severely sheltered minutes, looked like Poti out there with his stick in the wrong lanes all night, not clearing the crease and in general being poopy.
Larger constellations burning, mellow moons and happy skies,
Breadths of tropic shade and palms in cluster, knots of Paradise.
If Wideman/Schultz is the 3rd pairing come playoff time, I don’t think that would be a horrible thing.
by JimCareyFanClub on Mar 23, 2011 11:12 AM EDT up reply actions
I’m pretty sure that Wideman also tipped the shot that Briere deflected – did anyone else see that? And the Versus crew went on and on, gushing how Briere’s reflexes are lighting fast, blah blah, blah. I was so disgusted with the Versus crew wetting their pants over Philly’s great comeback – and it was really well executed hockey, I admit – when I saw the replay of Briere’s goal, I laughed.
I think Wideman had a great night, for the Caps AND Philly.
by S h a g g y on Mar 23, 2011 12:20 PM EDT up reply actions
Wideman simply failed to defend Briere effectively on that play. I don’t think he touched the puck at all, though. Very clean look for Briere there.
by Berube Doobie Doo on Mar 23, 2011 12:24 PM EDT up reply actions
By my count, Wideman’s had two really rough games since coming to DC – last night was one of ’em. Which is amazing considering he also did some really good stuff in between the fuck-ups.
Sunrise, sunset, swiftly fly the years. One season following another, laden with happiness and tears.
He’s going to be major-league heartburn in the playoffs.
by Berube Doobie Doo on Mar 23, 2011 12:27 PM EDT up reply actions
and this is different than years past HOW? we’re used to it!
Pledge Drive 2010-2011: SO KIDS CAN!! Help build a playground
The puck did strike Wideman’s skate before Briere tipped it. I didn’t catch it until the HD super-slow mo replay, but it was obvious that it did click Wideman and then Briere.
"Game's the same. Just got more fierce."
by Hooks Orpik on Mar 23, 2011 12:30 PM EDT up reply actions
Yeah, saw that too. Think it probably goes in w/ or w/o Wideman touching it though in this case, it was such a slight click.
"And then they’ll look at guys in my situation, that could play three good games in a row and have one bad shift, and they’ll say, ‘Well, that’s why he’s been in the minor leagues his whole career.'" --Matt Hendricks
Fun Facts
From a comment to the BSH recap:
-The Flyers and Capitals tied the season series, each team going 2-0-2 against the other.
-All four games went past 60 minutes,
-Each team won a game in the 5-minute OT.
-Each team won their respective OT game by the score of 3-2.
-Each team won a game in the SO.
-The final score for each team’s SO win was 5-4.
That’s some freaky, Lincoln-had-a-secretary-named-Kennedy style shit right there.
"Hockey is my life, wine is my passion." -- Igor Larionov
by Scott in Shaw on Mar 23, 2011 11:12 AM EDT reply actions 2 recs
As much as I don’t want to face the Flyers in the postseason, it would likely be a hell of a series.
"Now wait a minute. This is just purely a social call. You know, just two adults getting a stew on, man."
by The Ghost of Bebop on Mar 23, 2011 11:15 AM EDT up reply actions
Y’know how they say that bitter rivals become close after the years pass and they’ve been away from the game for a while. These guys? Not so much.
If you've read this far...seek help.
by ThePeerless on Mar 23, 2011 11:17 AM EDT up reply actions
Good point.
"Now wait a minute. This is just purely a social call. You know, just two adults getting a stew on, man."
by The Ghost of Bebop on Mar 23, 2011 11:18 AM EDT up reply actions
So who wins the tiebreaker? Wow...
* – Division leaders are seeded 1, 2, and 3 in Conference standings. If two or more clubs are tied in points during the regular season, the standing of the clubs is determined in the following order:
* The fewer number of games played (i.e., superior points percentage).
* The greater number of games won, excluding games won in the Shootout (NEW for 2010-11). This figure is reflected in the ROW column.
* The greater number of points earned in games between the tied clubs. If two clubs are tied, and have not played an equal number of home games against each other, points earned in the first game played in the city that had the extra game shall not be included. If more than two clubs are tied, the higher percentage of available points earned in games among those clubs, and not including any “odd” games, shall be used to determine the standing.
* The greater differential between goals for and against for the entire regular season.
Right now, it’s Philly by virtue of the fewer number of games played. That goes away when the season ends, though; both teams will have 82.
…Philly by virtue of more ROW (Regulation-Overtime Wins) with 41 to the Caps’ 39…. close enough to change…
…Tied in points earned in head-to-head games… this one won’t change.
- PHI @ WSH —> WSH W 3-2 OT
- PHI @ WSH —> PHI W 5-4 SO (doesn’t count)
- WSH @ PHI —> PHI W 3-2 OT
- WSH @ PHI —> WSH W 5-4 SO (doesn’t count)
And Philly wins the Goal Differential by +37 to +23… though that could change too.
Photography: I Rock the Red
Twitter: @IRockTheRed
E-mail: irockthered {at} gmail {dot} com
by IRockTheRed on Mar 23, 2011 11:21 AM EDT up reply actions
Bottom line: Probably Philly wins a tie, unless the ROW swings significantly.
by Berube Doobie Doo on Mar 23, 2011 11:27 AM EDT up reply actions
The moral of the story: just win, baby.
"Now wait a minute. This is just purely a social call. You know, just two adults getting a stew on, man."
by The Ghost of Bebop on Mar 23, 2011 11:27 AM EDT up reply actions
* The greater differential between goals for and against for the entire regular season.
which is really, really bizarre, because if they use the differentials in the standings tables, they include shootout results. For example, in the standings, the Caps have 203 “goals.” Uh, no. They have 199 actual hockey goals (2.69 G/G from the team stat tables X 74 games = 199).
If you've read this far...seek help.
by ThePeerless on Mar 23, 2011 11:30 AM EDT up reply actions
Does this mean that a Verizon Center hat trick is a real hat trick?
by Berube Doobie Doo on Mar 23, 2011 11:45 AM EDT up reply actions
SO wins get credited to the team as 1 goal, regardless of how many were scored. Players don’t get credit for them, except under the SO stats.
Matt Bradley: He has sensitive skin, no?
I love Verizon Center hatricks. We haven’t had one this year, have we? I especially love the way they offend the hockey purists. There is this guy in the back of 121 who practically has a seizure yelling at people to “stop throwing hats you idiots”.
. If two clubs are tied, and have not played an equal number of home games against each other, points earned in the first game played in the city that had the extra game shall not be included. If more than two clubs are tied, the higher percentage of available points earned in games among those clubs, and not including any "odd" games, shall be used to determine the standing.
I’m curious under what circumstances this rule would apply to? I can’t think of a scenario in which two conference teams would play a different number of home games.
I think that would only be able to apply if it was between teams from different conferences – in other words, determining home ice for the Finals.
Matt Bradley: He has sensitive skin, no?
I was thinking that, but no teams play out of conference more than twice a year, right? (I may be mistaken). So you would either have an identical number of home games or have a single odd game thrown out.
might be a relic of the unbalanced schedule days or neutral site game years.
If you've read this far...seek help.
by ThePeerless on Mar 23, 2011 11:35 AM EDT up reply actions
it’s for breaking ties in-season.
Pledge Drive 2010-2011: SO KIDS CAN!! Help build a playground
by RedBirdie on Mar 23, 2011 11:35 AM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
That makes perfect sense, hand-in-hand with the first tie-breaker that goes out the window when the season ends.
Thanks Redbirdie.
no problem. the NHL doesn’t make it easy on fans to understand things far too often. It would help if they indicated which tie-breakers are used after every team completes 82 games.
Pledge Drive 2010-2011: SO KIDS CAN!! Help build a playground
which begs the question of why breaking ties mid-season matters.
Geeks of All Nations, Compile!
by AMusingFool on Mar 24, 2011 12:12 PM EDT up reply actions
ECHL article – catching up with Holtby
http://www.echl.com/echl-alumni-profile-braden-holtby-p170224
(technically, he has 2 Calder Cups, but as he has noted in the past, more a part of the team last year; anyway, short but sweet write-up with quotes)
From SkyKerstein:
“Ovi said the injury has been bothering him for 2 months, said they’ve been talking about taking this time off for 2 weeks”
Also from S.K.
“Arnott says its an injury that’s been building since he got traded, wants to play in some games before playoffs”
This is my favorite:
Arnott said he voiced his opinion to Ovi on Ovi’s situation and he has to do what he has to do for his body and the team
Sunrise, sunset, swiftly fly the years. One season following another, laden with happiness and tears.
Doesn’t that trade get better and better every day? Even when he’s not on the ince.
Don’t try to figure Sasha out. Just ride the wave.
Arnott seems to be voicing his opinion on everything to everyone. He is probably telling Green what kind of car to buy next and BB what flavor of ice cream to try.
Opinions are important
“Orange tracksuit, no. Wearing nothing but capris and a jacket, no. Purple short shorts, hell no.”
“But it’s stylish…”
“Not in this country.”
Welcome to Japers' Rink, we're "elitist" as fuck.
by PrincessPowerful on Mar 23, 2011 5:06 PM EDT up reply actions
And if the guys in the room don’t like it, he’s going to say it anyway, because he has to say what he has to say . . .
by Karl W on Mar 23, 2011 5:11 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
Also nice that Arnott said today the injury is one he’s had before and he feels he has a handle on what he needs to do to get back. Makes me thinks that unless he re-injures the groin we can count on him for as long as the Caps are alive.
Honestly after all of those updates on Ovi and Arnott, I feel a million times better about both. I doubt BB goes around saying he wouldn’t rule them out for the Ott/Mtl games if the injuries were serious.
WHEW.
Sunrise, sunset, swiftly fly the years. One season following another, laden with happiness and tears.
But he IS dicking us around by saying they might play vs OTT/MTL. There’s no chance of either. Not because of injury severity, but because they’ve already decided how long these guys are going to sit, more or less.
by Berube Doobie Doo on Mar 23, 2011 1:03 PM EDT up reply actions
From “the end of next week” you got that BB is saying they could play this weekend?
To me that means he thinks they might play against Columbus (3/31) or Buffalo (4/2).
No, that was my fault…I misread this:
Boudreau said “they might” travel to Ottawa and Montreal on Ovi and Arnott
…as they might play, not that they might get on the plane with the team. My fault. 31st sounds right to me.
Sunrise, sunset, swiftly fly the years. One season following another, laden with happiness and tears.
BB dicking us around? WHAT??
And yeah, I’d agree it’s unlikely they play (although I’d love it if they went along on the trip regardless, if only to be with the team) – but I don’t think he’d say they MIGHT play if they were done for the season or even 2-3 weeks away. I’d bet one or both is back in the lineup by the 31st at the latest.
Hopefully.
Meanwhile Green’s injury is scaring the crap out of me. I was calm before but the fact that we haven’t heard anything about him even skating in the last week is really troubling. Concussions are so scary…just be okay, Greenie :(
Sunrise, sunset, swiftly fly the years. One season following another, laden with happiness and tears.
I’m right with you on Green. Starting to get really nervous about him. But then again, the defense has been quite solid without him, and I’ve called him a liability in past playoffs, so…
by Berube Doobie Doo on Mar 23, 2011 1:23 PM EDT up reply actions
When Savard returned in the playoffs last year, were there a lot of rumblings leading up to that? Was he practicing at full-speed for a while? Just trying to find precedent to determine when we can expect him back. We need him.
Dale Hunter would punch the 2010-2011 Caps right in the Kidneys
Follow me on Twitter
Actually it sounds like it can happen pretty fast – at least based on this article from last year:
He was officially given medical clearance on Monday and participated in only his second full-team practice on Wednesday morning at Ristuccia Arena. Savard, who suffered a Grade 2 concussion on March 7, was playing on a normal line and was involved in every aspect as the team prepares for the Eastern Conference semifinals. […] Savard has been back on the ice for over a week now, and since he’s been cleared to play, he was asked to skate a little extra after practice on Wednesday just to make sure his conditioning level is as close as possible to where it needs to be for the playoffs.
Sunrise, sunset, swiftly fly the years. One season following another, laden with happiness and tears.
…er, blockquote fail. That whole second paragraph is from the article.
He was officially given medical clearance on Monday and participated in only his second full-team practice on Wednesday morning at Ristuccia Arena. Savard, who suffered a Grade 2 concussion on March 7, was playing on a normal line and was involved in every aspect as the team prepares for the Eastern Conference semifinals. […] Savard has been back on the ice for over a week now, and since he’s been cleared to play, he was asked to skate a little extra after practice on Wednesday just to make sure his conditioning level is as close as possible to where it needs to be for the playoffs.
Sunrise, sunset, swiftly fly the years. One season following another, laden with happiness and tears.
Meanwhile Green’s injury is scaring the crap out of me. I was calm before but the fact that we haven’t heard anything about him even skating in the last week is really troubling.
He skating on Sunday as part of a charity hockey clinic. So there’s that.
"I don’t think too many guys try to talk to him and get him into the play ... if I can do that and it helps out our line then it’s what I’ll do." -- Jason Arnott on Alexander Semin
But he was practicing with the team last week, and the last two practices he hasn’t even been on the ice. I wish they’d at least say he was fine but that they wanted him to not skate for a few days.
Don’t try to figure Sasha out. Just ride the wave.
Agreed. I really just want to hear ANYTHING at this point…one of the XM Home Ice guys mentioned it in previewing this game last night, what we’ve been saying all along – sad about Crosby and obviously you want to know updates on his status, but there’s been absolutely no attention paid to 52.
I just want to know that he’s okay, or on the road to being okay, or if he’s not okay how long until they think he’ll BE okay.
:(
Sunrise, sunset, swiftly fly the years. One season following another, laden with happiness and tears.
Greenie’s not the only one. There are several guys who’ve been out for ages, yet you never hear about them.
Don’t try to figure Sasha out. Just ride the wave.
TSN publishes a list that they update pretty much daily…
- Jonas Hiller (ANA) – Vertigo
- Jim Slater (ATL) – Concussion
- Freddy Meyer (ATL) – Head
- Marc Savard (BOS) – Concussion
- Raitis Ivanans (CGY) – Concussion
- Niklas Hagman (CGY) – Concussion-Like Symptoms
- Dave Bolland (CHI) – Concussion
- Peter Mueller (COL) – Concussion
- Kyle Cumiskey (COL) – Head
- Loui Eriksson (DAL) – Concussion-Like Symptoms
- Gilbert Brule (EDM) – Concussion
- Scott Timmins (FLA) – Concussion
- Kyle Clifford (LAK) – Head
- Max Pacioretty (MTL) – Concussion / Fractured Vertebrae
- Matthew Lombardi (NSH) – Concussion
- Francis Bouillon (NSH) – Concussion
- Bryce Salvador (NJD) – Concussion
- Rhett Rakhshani (NYI) – Concussion
- Derek Boogaard (NYR) – Shoulder / Concussion
- Sergei Gonchar (OTT) – Concussion
- Ian Laperriere (PHI) – Post-Concussion Syndrome
- Kurt Sauer (PHX) – Concussion
- Sidney Crosby (PHI) – Concussion
- Eric Tangradi (PHI) – Concussion-Like Symptoms
- Niclas Wallin (SJS) – Head
- David Perron (STL) – Concussion-Like Symptoms
- Colton Orr (TOR) – Concussion
- Mike Green (WAS) – Head
It’s a HUGE list, and yet all we hear about is Mr. Crosby…
Photography: I Rock the Red
Twitter: @IRockTheRed
E-mail: irockthered {at} gmail {dot} com
Yes, the public is clammoring for news on when Rhett Rakhshani will return to the Islanders’ lineup!
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
Well… well… but…. yeah, I know, I have no idea who he is, but there are a bunch of big names on that list was my point… :-p
Photography: I Rock the Red
Twitter: @IRockTheRed
E-mail: irockthered {at} gmail {dot} com
I’m sure they’re covered in the respective local markets where folks care. Sid is far and away the most recognizable name on that list and the only one, frankly, that warrants a significant level of national attention.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
Mike Green doesn’t?
Jonas Hiller doesn’t?
What about Marc Savard? What gave him the concussion got national attention at the time, but he’s dropped off the radar too…
Photography: I Rock the Red
Twitter: @IRockTheRed
E-mail: irockthered {at} gmail {dot} com
I think each of those guys gets an appropriate level of national attention. I’ve seen plenty about all three.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
I’d like to see someone do a comprehensive article on all the concussions that have happened this season. The number, I read somewhere, is up over last season, despite the new rule… most are caused by accidents rather than someone deliberately concussing someone else (ahem Cooke). The NHL is doing a fair amount to try and reduce it – getting rid of all the seamless glass, supposedly cracking down on boarding and charging, and calling for mandatory doctor checks after any head injury of any type before the player can get on the ice again. I wonder how much of that would have happened if Steckel’s shoulder hadn’t collided with Crosby’s head…
Photography: I Rock the Red
Twitter: @IRockTheRed
E-mail: irockthered {at} gmail {dot} com
Crosby’s injury has been an agent of change, no doubt – a silver lining on an awful injury.
And there has been plenty of ink/pixels spilled on the subject.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
jeeeeez, I had no idea Goonch had a concussion. you’d like Ottawa loosing a high priced free agent like that would be in the news a little more.
but hey, did you see how hard David Steckel hit Sidney Crosby?
Pledge Drive 2010-2011: SO KIDS CAN!! Help build a playground
I know, right? That Dangerous Dave is a menace on the ice. </sarcasm>
Photography: I Rock the Red
Twitter: @IRockTheRed
E-mail: irockthered {at} gmail {dot} com
*think, not like.
you can add “english language” to the list of things I’m struggling with today.
Pledge Drive 2010-2011: SO KIDS CAN!! Help build a playground
I’m hoping that it’s so that they can just drop him into the lineup one night without warning, BLAM! Ottawa will never know what hit ’em!
by Berube Doobie Doo on Mar 23, 2011 2:31 PM EDT up reply actions
If they play (esp Ovi) in Ottawa, our kids – and their parents – can stop crying. We’ve planned this trip since the schedule came out and it was tough news that Ovi wouldn’t play, since the kids have never seen the Caps live before and they have been looking forward to watching him.
If Lurking equaled Learning, I'd be a force to be reckoned with.
Interesting breakdown of “dirty” penalties and “cheating” penalties handed out this year…not surprising to see the PA teams near the top of the former and the Caps (and a few select offenders) near the top of the latter.
Sunrise, sunset, swiftly fly the years. One season following another, laden with happiness and tears.
Yeah, that’s an awesome article—Florida Panthers for Lady Byng!
But I’d argue that roughing shouldn’t be counted with the same weight as the other “dirty” penalties—a lot of times it’s two dudes who didn’t quite fight getting sent off for two each to cool down—not really a “dirty” penalty. Sort of the same rationale as why fighting majors aren’t counted in their listings.
We're Hüsker Dü and we're on MTV. Who are you, and what are you on?
by bilspacecadet on Mar 23, 2011 12:43 PM EDT up reply actions
Yeah that was my complaint as well. When you compare “boarding” to “roughing”, one traditionally has a dangerous component, the other is a frustration penalty. Not that there can’t be very bad roughs just like very bad slashes, but not on the same level in my worldview.
"Inglewood Jack! Inglewood Jack!" - Coach Jules
by Alz Well That Ends Well on Mar 23, 2011 12:47 PM EDT up reply actions
Well, my take on it is that he’s breaking all penalties (minus fighting) into two categories – hard to say that roughing is “cheating” so it would have to fall under “dirty”.
Sunrise, sunset, swiftly fly the years. One season following another, laden with happiness and tears.
I know why goalie interference was put in cheating, but the Flyers pretty consistently execute it as a dirty play.
Pledge Drive 2010-2011: SO KIDS CAN!! Help build a playground
Yeah, if it has to be pigeon-holed into one of the two categories, it’s in the correct one.
"Inglewood Jack! Inglewood Jack!" - Coach Jules
by Alz Well That Ends Well on Mar 23, 2011 1:01 PM EDT up reply actions
Neuvy giving the old stick tap to Dennis
Follow me!
Currently Netflixing: Arrested Development - Season 2
“Next time you Poti a puck past me, I’m going to take my stick, like this, and hit you right about here, like this.”
Pledge Drive 2010-2011: SO KIDS CAN!! Help build a playground
by RedBirdie on Mar 23, 2011 12:51 PM EDT up reply actions 7 recs
I believe this way prior to the wideman flyers goal.
Follow me!
Currently Netflixing: Arrested Development - Season 2
The caption works great when paired with the Varly Stare of Death.
Bruce Boudreau when asked about Brooks Laich's return to the lineup, he said: "He just adds another dimension to our team. If it was puzzle, he just fits that thing. He completes us."
Brooks Laich completing everything from teams to tires and everything in between.
FULL TRANSCRIPT of Ovie’s presser from the WashTimes
-Back in 5-7 days
-He won’t say exactly what the injury is
-He was not in Philly last night
So Staal left the Carolina game last night…this is amusing…not even calling it an injury….
ice_chip Chip Alexander
Staal has lower body concern but will be fine for Bolts, Maurice says.
Gotta laugh at the sentiment behind a headline like “Still in First” So many Philly fans said that. Clear sour grapes.
Follow me!
Currently Netflixing: Arrested Development - Season 2
should have asked them exactly how much that “first” means in the playoffs. NADA!
Pledge Drive 2010-2011: SO KIDS CAN!! Help build a playground
Yup…hilarious how many of them mocked us last year for celebrating regular season success. Short memories? Doesn’t mean a thing if you can’t back it up in the playoffs, and there’s no guarantee the Flyers do. They might, but until then? Act like you’ve been there…or some equally creative platitude so frequently spewed from the mouths of Pennsylvanians.
Plus that kind of thing reminds me of my trip to Tampa back in early February. Heard lots of "yeah, well, you’re still in second" comments on my way out of St. Pete Times Forum. That worked out really well for them.
Sunrise, sunset, swiftly fly the years. One season following another, laden with happiness and tears.
This is a question that I think reads sarcastically but I actually mean: how is that any different that Caps fans in the open threads last night saying, “SCOREBOARD”?
If wishes were horses, we'd all be eating steak.
by Hang a Laingtern on Your Problems on Mar 23, 2011 2:30 PM EDT up reply actions
It’s not. I thought the same thing as the Flyers were handing us our asses shift and after shift in the 2nd and 3rd period. The announcers (terrible as they were) were pointing out the domination and some fans kept yelling that the scoreboard somehow changed that fact.
Of course a few moments later the Flyers scored goal Nos 3 and 4 and that chant was no longer possible.
Flash is skating again
Link here
Bruce Boudreau when asked about Brooks Laich's return to the lineup, he said: "He just adds another dimension to our team. If it was puzzle, he just fits that thing. He completes us."
Brooks Laich completing everything from teams to tires and everything in between.
Know where else that link is?
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
Whoops, skipped right over that one above.
Still is great news for the ex-Cap.
Bruce Boudreau when asked about Brooks Laich's return to the lineup, he said: "He just adds another dimension to our team. If it was puzzle, he just fits that thing. He completes us."
Brooks Laich completing everything from teams to tires and everything in between.
@TheGoalieGuild:
Michal Neuvirth’s performance last night changes nothing in my mind in regards to his status as the Caps’ go-to goalie for the playoffs.
by Berube Doobie Doo on Mar 23, 2011 1:44 PM EDT reply actions
I agree that last night changes nothing. Barring an injury or a couple of meltdowns in a row, I simply don’t see how anything can change without Varlamov making a start.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
by J.P. on Mar 23, 2011 1:48 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
Agreed. Neuvy has proven his worth this season. It is Varly who has to show BB that he is capable of an even higher level. He must get 3-4 starts these last few weeks.
What Varly has to show is he’s capable of staying healthy for more than one game in a row. He has little prove to Bruce about his skills or that he’s capable of a “higher level.” If anything, it’s proving that he is capable of sustaining that higher level, not just reaching it, and a big chunk of that is health.
"We know the answers have to come from this room," Hendricks said. "They're in here."
By “higher level” I mean higher than Neuvy. If he comes in and doesn’t look sharp after a second and third game I have no interest in putting him in net for a Game 1.
right on. And I agree Varly needs a couple starts to knock the rust off. But it does put him in the challenging position of having to knock off rust and play out of his mind simultaneously.
"We know the answers have to come from this room," Hendricks said. "They're in here."
Why does he have to show he’s capable of staying healthy? I understand his health as a concern if we’re talking about his next contract, but if he’s healthy enough to play the next game on the schedule, isn’t at an increase risk of injuring himself AND he’s the better of the two goalies, what does it really matter if he’s healthy enough to play in a week or a month?
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
By the way:
(Whyno: blog, blog, blog, gamer)
Whyno is killing it . What a great addition to the Caps beat, and a good follow on Twitter to boot. Dare I say a worthy successor to Corey at the WT.
by grapejoos on Mar 23, 2011 2:07 PM EDT reply actions 2 recs
If he’s as good as you (and others) say, then I’m happy for him, but I cannot ever support the Times in any way (including views on their site). I realize the sports department is not the same as the editorial board, but it’s still a non-starter with me.
Am I the only one?
Let’s not go there – I know where it’s headed.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
Sorry. I don’t want to attack them — I just don’t want to support them. My question (which I didn’t want to be assholish about) was more of “Are there things that you want to support or read but don’t feel you can?”.
I can totally circle this back to hockey. I see Todd Bertuzzi play a lot. He goes out there, works hard, plays by the rules, is a quiet but respected member of his team. He seems to have rebuilt his hockey life. I want to be, if not happy, at least begrudgingly accepting, of that.
but he’s Todd Bertuzzi. He broke a guy’s neck in one of the most grotesque attacks ever committed on ice.
trying to hold these two views, let alone reconcile them, is very difficult to me. So mostly I just watch, very conflicted.
so, yeah, no answers for you, but just trying to bring it back to the ice.
Pledge Drive 2010-2011: SO KIDS CAN!! Help build a playground
When you cut yourself off from a newspaper because of its editorial leanings you are the one who suffers.
Different people, different department.
What if I cut myself off from a newspaper because they fired Corey Masisak and drove him to New York?
If wishes were horses, we'd all be eating steak.
by Hang a Laingtern on Your Problems on Mar 23, 2011 3:21 PM EDT up reply actions
The result will be you are less-informed about the Capital.
I don’t know how you can take the firing of one individual personally when en entire department was eliminated.
Lame jokes are lame. I get it.
If wishes were horses, we'd all be eating steak.
by Hang a Laingtern on Your Problems on Mar 23, 2011 3:49 PM EDT up reply actions
Minor complaint: I could do without the “I’m going to be writing a blog post about X” tweets. Just tweet a link to the story when it’s done. I don’t need to know what you’re doing from minute to minute.
by Berube Doobie Doo on Mar 23, 2011 2:36 PM EDT up reply actions
Counterpoint: publicly stating what you’re writing about lessens the chance that someone will steal it from you prior to you publishing it. It’s been known to happen.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
Although in the Caps news cycle the various media outlets’ blog posts tend to be very, very similar each week since most of it comes from the open pressers.
The only time something truly unique is going to happen is if you conduct a one-on-one interview. In that case you are the only one with the quotes.
There’s plenty of room for taking what’s said at a presser in any number of directions. And there’s frequently an opportunity to grab a player for what you think is going to be a one-on-one that someone(s) then piggyback on. Announcing your intentions is a way of laying claim.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
I can understand that. But 99% of his Twitter audience are not rival journos. I just wish such claims could be laid elsewhere. But that’s not realistic, I suppose.
by Berube Doobie Doo on Mar 23, 2011 3:02 PM EDT up reply actions
It’s not for his audience other than to allow them to bear witness, I suppose.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
Good point. I’m announcing that I will soon be doing a Fan Post analyzing the relative home records and home goals for per 60 minutes for teams that use a goal horn vs a siren vs. an 80’s pop song when the home team scores. I totally have dibs on that.
Just trying to capture the spirit of the thing...
by dcsportsfan1 on Mar 23, 2011 3:11 PM EDT up reply actions
You’d best deliver on it, then…
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
by J.P. on Mar 23, 2011 3:12 PM EDT up reply actions 2 recs
Already started stealing quotes and stats from onfrozengoalhorn.com.
Just trying to capture the spirit of the thing...
by dcsportsfan1 on Mar 23, 2011 3:48 PM EDT up reply actions
Caps Blood Drive
I originally signed up for a blood drive for this weekend at the October blood drive at Kettler. Has anybody heard anything about this weekend’s event?
Because now I can justify browsing and commenting during the work day with the argument that I am promoting my business.
If you gave them your email and/or phone number you should have received a call or email confirming your appointment. If you didn’t give them one or the other I have no idea if you would have heard something. Inova has a blood drive website. I suggest you call them to confirm.
weird. Never got a call but I just called and confirmed, and am immediately regretting agreeing to 9:45 am donation haha. Thanks guys.
Because now I can justify browsing and commenting during the work day with the argument that I am promoting my business.
by Sombrero Guy on Mar 23, 2011 2:42 PM EDT up reply actions
E-mail me if you want to swap spots – I’m signed up for 3:00 or thereabouts…
Photography: I Rock the Red
Twitter: @IRockTheRed
E-mail: irockthered {at} gmail {dot} com
Thanks but I’m good. I actually have a wedding to attend that night. Open bar after donating blood could be interesting….
Because now I can justify browsing and commenting during the work day with the argument that I am promoting my business.
by Sombrero Guy on Mar 24, 2011 10:13 AM EDT up reply actions
We are now seven points ahead of Tampa with eight games to play. Tampa has a game in hand.
If my math is right, that makes our magic number for the division 11 if we have the tiebreaker?
So, 5-2-1 or better gets us the Southeast title, even if Tampa wins nine straight. Neat.
I think.
Winterion Game Studios
Visit us online at : http://winterion.com
That’s funny, I literally emailed that question around about 10 minutes before you posted this comment…apparently 11 is technically the magic number but based on tiebreakers and W/L/OTL/SOL stuff it may actually be 12. Or something.
Sunrise, sunset, swiftly fly the years. One season following another, laden with happiness and tears.
Magic #’s 11 unless those 11 points contain 3 SO wins or 6 OTLs (or some combination of the two).
Basically I think about it like this: a team with 100 points that would win all the tiebreakers would be 50-32-0 with 0 SOW. Teams with 50-32-0 (1 SOW) and 49-31-2 (0 SOW) both have the same number of ROW tiebreaking wins. So a shootout win counts against you the same as 2 OTLs does. Caps currently have 10 OTL and 4 SOW, or a ‘9.’ TBL have 11 OTL and 6 SOW, or a ‘11.5.’ Unless that 9 grows past 11.5, we win the tiebreaker.
Eat, drink, and be merry! And then drink some more.
I think I’ll just give up on this and see who wins which games.
by Berube Doobie Doo on Mar 23, 2011 3:42 PM EDT up reply actions
USA Hockey internship application deadline…
Not sure if this would apply/appeal to anyone here, but the deadline to apply is this Friday.
http://www.usahockey.com/fishman/default.aspx?id=299132&DetailedNews=yes
sort of rock it because he can use “I’m a craaaaaazy Russian!” excuse.
Pledge Drive 2010-2011: SO KIDS CAN!! Help build a playground
Didn’t Patrick Kane do lines in his hair like that for the playoffs last year?
That'll make your weagle wink!
Why’s this guy such a douche?
Ah, beer. The cause of and the solution to all of life’s problems. - Homer Simpson
Idk
Why does puck daddy only roll stories about the Caps and Pens?
Bruce Boudreau when asked about Brooks Laich's return to the lineup, he said: "He just adds another dimension to our team. If it was puzzle, he just fits that thing. He completes us."
Brooks Laich completing everything from teams to tires and everything in between.
You stink, Wysh!
Oh, wait. Wrong forum.
by Berube Doobie Doo on Mar 23, 2011 3:43 PM EDT up reply actions
Why does puck daddy only roll stories about the Caps and Pens?
You happen to catch the TV ratinings for the Winter Classic? But the real answer is probably that Wysh lives in DC
Being an Atlantic Division fan doesn’t hurt, either. Nor does having Leahy and Lambert on the masthead.
by Berube Doobie Doo on Mar 23, 2011 3:48 PM EDT up reply actions
Try this on for size
"Can you smell what the Arnott is Cooking?"
by TheFuryUnleashed on Mar 23, 2011 4:03 PM EDT up reply actions
No really... try this on for size
"Can you smell what the Arnott is Cooking?"
by TheFuryUnleashed on Mar 23, 2011 4:05 PM EDT up reply actions
I can’t upload a pic :( … its funny
"Can you smell what the Arnott is Cooking?"
by TheFuryUnleashed on Mar 23, 2011 4:11 PM EDT up reply actions
Broken link for me, although copying the URL and pasting into a browser works. I don’t think Wysh deserves it, though.
by Berube Doobie Doo on Mar 23, 2011 4:11 PM EDT up reply actions
ok ok ….. then I won’t post it ….
"Can you smell what the Arnott is Cooking?"
by TheFuryUnleashed on Mar 23, 2011 4:12 PM EDT reply actions
Oh, Mark Recchi…
@MurphysLaw74 Mark Recchi on @985TheSportsHub agreed with Michael Felger that Habs “embellished” Pacioretty’s injury to get Chara suspended.
Sunrise, sunset, swiftly fly the years. One season following another, laden with happiness and tears.
just when you think the two sides can’t make themselves look any worse….one always manages to out-douche the other.
Pledge Drive 2010-2011: SO KIDS CAN!! Help build a playground
They took a bat to his spine after the game to make sure something was broken. Choke on on a bag of asbestos, Recchi.
I have planned my grand attacks; I will stand behind their backs. With my brand new battle-axe, they will taste my wrath. They will hear me say as the pavement whirls, "I hate California girls."
by Steckel Me Elmo on Mar 23, 2011 4:19 PM EDT up reply actions
…21-year-old Braden Holtby, the somewhat eccentric Canadian…
“eccentric” isn’t the word that springs to mind when discussing Holtby. More like “fiery” or “aggressive”
Pledge Drive 2010-2011: SO KIDS CAN!! Help build a playground
The RMNB article even uses the word “eccentric” in reference. http://www.russianmachineneverbreaks.com/2010/03/30/braden-holtby-superstitions-and-the-introduction-of-holtbyisms/
by Berube Doobie Doo on Mar 23, 2011 4:27 PM EDT up reply actions
Can you really call someone "eccentric’ who has played on a team with Karl Alzner?
Six Beers Too Many fantasy team: It's Neu-virth Than Usual
"I wake up in the middle night frustrated because we lost out in the first round and I want to see our players hoist the Stanley Cup." -Brooks Laich
by CapitalCentre on Mar 23, 2011 4:27 PM EDT up reply actions
hey now, Jose Theodore got Karl to calm down! Although when the goalie says you’re a little too obsessive compulsive, you know you have a problem.
Pledge Drive 2010-2011: SO KIDS CAN!! Help build a playground
He did, and thank heavens for that. But King Karl’s probably still the weirder of the two.
Six Beers Too Many fantasy team: It's Neu-virth Than Usual
"I wake up in the middle night frustrated because we lost out in the first round and I want to see our players hoist the Stanley Cup." -Brooks Laich
by CapitalCentre on Mar 23, 2011 4:33 PM EDT up reply actions
Worth a post here and in OT
Follow me!
Currently Netflixing: Arrested Development - Season 2
by Ovechwin on Mar 23, 2011 4:38 PM EDT reply actions 3 recs
That’s pretty freaking awesome. What was the funny?
by Berube Doobie Doo on Mar 23, 2011 4:41 PM EDT up reply actions
#needsmorewaffles
"Hockey is my life, wine is my passion." -- Igor Larionov
by Scott in Shaw on Mar 23, 2011 5:46 PM EDT up reply actions
oh wonderful From DChesnokov
“#Caps Semyon Varlamov’s Russian Agent Vyacheslav Makhrensky states that Varlamov (RFA this summer) is considering offers from the #KHL.”
Follow me!
Currently Netflixing: Arrested Development - Season 2
And
#Caps Varlamov’s Russian agent says “a few elite KHL clubs are interested in Semyon” and that Varlamov “is considering the possibility.”
Follow me!
Currently Netflixing: Arrested Development - Season 2
In other words, he’s not gonna come cheap. Ugh!
Follow me!
Currently Netflixing: Arrested Development - Season 2
Then he can go. Brittlegroin’d goalies are not worth paying like superstars.
by Berube Doobie Doo on Mar 23, 2011 4:54 PM EDT up reply actions
That and he’s not exactly what I’d call proven; doesn’t have much leverage to demand to be paid like a top tier goalie in the NHL.
I have planned my grand attacks; I will stand behind their backs. With my brand new battle-axe, they will taste my wrath. They will hear me say as the pavement whirls, "I hate California girls."
by Steckel Me Elmo on Mar 23, 2011 4:57 PM EDT up reply actions
I’m in the Holtby camp …..
"Can you smell what the Arnott is Cooking?"
by TheFuryUnleashed on Mar 23, 2011 4:59 PM EDT up reply actions
Not even close. Maybe he gets $1.5MM and 2 years from the Caps. Maybe.
Although, it would certainly hurt to see him go, and we get nothing in return. Until he comes crawling back like Nabokov did, and we still have his rights.
by Berube Doobie Doo on Mar 23, 2011 4:59 PM EDT up reply actions
Seconded, or whatever. Takes care of the goalie glut without having to decide.
Don’t try to figure Sasha out. Just ride the wave.
If we were to lose one of the three, he’d get my vote. I wouldn’t like losing him without getting anything back, though.
There is that problem of not being able to trade him, but whatever. If he’s thinking about the KHL, either he’s looking for money, or he really would rather go home. If it’s money, don’t let the door hit you on the the way out. If it’s homesickness, there’s not a lot you can do about that.
Don’t try to figure Sasha out. Just ride the wave.
Not if Neuvirth’s your 1G. He and Holtby have done very well for themselves — and their sample size — in Varlamov’s absence.
....when the truth is if they knew anything about the game, they'd be in it.
--GMGM
Sample size for Holtby is too small to know if he’s good enough to be an NHL back-up. And honestly I don’t know that we can tell with 100 percent certainty that Neuvy will be an elite starter for the 8-10 years.
If at all possible I’d like one more season with both Neuvy and Varly before making a decision.
tell with 100 percent certainty that Neuvy will be an elite starter for the 8-10 years.
I hope that’s not the standard they’re waiting on!
Sample size for Holtby is too small to know if he’s good enough to be an NHL back-up.
Sample size for Varlamov when he became Theo’s backup was that much greater? Plus, Holtby’s sample has been pretty encouraging; he’ll be cheaper for longer than Varlamov; he’s spent less time in the infirmary.
f at all possible I’d like one more season with both Neuvy and Varly before making a decision
Why assume it would be much different?
....when the truth is if they knew anything about the game, they'd be in it.
--GMGM
by redlineblue on Mar 23, 2011 7:54 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
I hope that’s not the standard they’re waiting on!
Fair point. But I’d at least like to see a second season of Neuvy before deciding its okay to bail on Varly.
Sample size for Varlamov when he became Theo’s backup was that much greater? Plus, Holtby’s sample has been pretty encouraging; he’ll be cheaper for longer than Varlamov; he’s spent less time in the infirmary.
Putting a guy into a playoff game is a different than letting a player walk. Also Varly was a first round pick. So I’m guessing the FO saw something in him that made them think he was a future starter.
Why assume it would be much different?
I’m not assuming anything, but I think it is a risk worth taking. If the injuries of the past two years were the exception rather than the rule it would be silly not to hang on to a player of his caliber.
Neuvirth has 12 fewer starts this year than Varlamov has career.
Varlamov got an NHL backup gig with very small “sample size”. His experience runs counter your statement that it’s ‘too soon to tell if Holtby’s good enough to NHL backup’.
Draft position? Fail to see current relevance.
If the injuries of the last (ahem) two seasons are the rule rather than the exception, his caliber doesn’t matter much.
....when the truth is if they knew anything about the game, they'd be in it.
--GMGM
by redlineblue on Mar 23, 2011 8:59 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
Have to agree on draft position. Doesn’t speak to anyone’s current skill level where they were drafted.
I’d like to keep Varly for another season, too, and have the luxury of 3 talented young goaltenders. But if Varly is going to force the issue and demand more than he’s worth in the NHL, I won’t shed a tear. We’ll still hold his rights, anyways.
by Berube Doobie Doo on Mar 23, 2011 9:18 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
Neuvirth has 12 fewer starts this year than Varlamov has career.
And it looks promising. But I don’t think you bail on a first round pick who has played as well as Varly.
Varlamov got an NHL backup gig with very small "sample size". His experience runs counter your statement that it’s ‘too soon to tell if Holtby’s good enough to NHL backup’.Draft position? Fail to see current relevance.
The relevance is not “current,” it came in ‘09. That’s the reason why Varly was stuck into the playoffs so early. It was a combination of what he had done in juniors (the reason for his early draft selection) and what the team saw in practice and in games.
If the injuries of the last (ahem) two seasons are the rule rather than the exception, his caliber doesn’t matter much.
Agreed. But his caliber makes him worth another look. Guys who have performed at the level Varly has don’t come around often.
Guys who get injured as often as Varly don’t come around often either. If he can’t be depended upon to start, why is he worth keeping? I’m all in favor of keeping him for now, but he’s not going to be any use if he continues to miss half the season with injuries. He especially won’t be worth it if he wants starting goaltender money. If he can manage to get his groin conditioned so it doesn’t go out on him every other week, then keep him.
Matt Bradley: He has sensitive skin, no?
All I’m saying is at this point I’m not in favor of getting rid of Varly with the idea our goalie position is set for the near future with Neuvy and Holtby.
I think it’s worth retaining Varly for at least the 2011-12 season. I don’t know enough about NHL contracts to know if a one-year deal (with the idea he’ll get a starting goaltender contract if he gives us 55-65 games next year) is possible, but that’s what I’d want.
What if he wants $3MM for next year, or he walks to the KHL?
by Berube Doobie Doo on Mar 23, 2011 10:09 PM EDT up reply actions
Based on his injury history that would be his way of saying he wants to play in the KHL. At that point you let him go.
And retain his rights.
My blog and Twitter, featuring coverage of the most frustrating team in the NHL
If you don't know how to use Timeonice, read this.
Behindthenet quick link to QoC/QoT/Corsi/PDO/Zonestarts
"Numbers don't lie, they just don't agree with you"--George E. Ays
If I reference a lot of stats, just assume I haven't seen anything to contradict or invalidate them.
by red army line on Mar 24, 2011 12:17 AM EDT up reply actions
Indeed. Though if he adopts a “pay me huge or I’m leaving” stance after such a spotty two seasons I have doubts he’d be coming back.
I wonder if he’s happy in DC, outside of hockey? I know there are a few Russians on the team, but do we know whether Varly likes it out-of-country?
"You do that you go the box, you know. Two minutes by yourself and you feel shame, you know. And then you get free."
I would totally agree with that view, on one condition. That would be dependent on what salary Varly asks for. He could be given a 1-year deal, no problem, as long as he’s willing to take it. That’s what Semin has gotten for each of the last few seasons. Not many players want that, because they want to know that they’re set for a while. But if he wants a multi-year, $3M/year contract, I’d walk away. If he’s willing to take a contract similar to Neuvy’s (2 years, $1.15M/year), re-sign him.
I personally would not be comfortable with Neuvy/Holtby next season – I think Holtby should get at least one more season like this one, where he’s Hershey’s starting goalie and gets pulled up to DC in case of injury. However, in a few years, one of our 3 young goalies will have to go. I do think you’re right in saying it’s too early to tell yet, but I don’t think Varly has an advantage there, due to his injury history.
Matt Bradley: He has sensitive skin, no?
If he’s willing to take a contract similar to Neuvy’s (2 years, $1.15M/year), re-sign him.
Agreed. The Caps have been good to Varly, it seems to me. There’s no reason why GMGM can’t say “look, you’ve been great when you’re on the ice but we need to see more. Give us two healthy, high-quality years and we’ll make you a wealthy goalie.”
If Varly doesn’t go for that he’s not the kind of player we want anyway.
redlineblue, sounds like you’re assuming that the Caps’ decision to put in Varly in 08-09 was a good one. Just because they did it before doesn’t mean they should again. I’d like to see how Holtby does in another season of call-ups. Teams will have a bit more of a plan on him.
I also have a hard time putting him in full-time earlier than Neuvirth. 30 up full time 4 years after his draft, 70 3? Let him get a bit more seasoning.
My blog and Twitter, featuring coverage of the most frustrating team in the NHL
If you don't know how to use Timeonice, read this.
Behindthenet quick link to QoC/QoT/Corsi/PDO/Zonestarts
"Numbers don't lie, they just don't agree with you"--George E. Ays
If I reference a lot of stats, just assume I haven't seen anything to contradict or invalidate them.
by red army line on Mar 24, 2011 12:16 AM EDT up reply actions
redlineblue, sounds like you’re assuming that the Caps’ decision to put in Varly in 08-09 was a good one.
I’m not. Seemed to me the idea of Holts as 2G was being dismissed bcs of his “sample size”, so I was going back exactly one goalie to suggest that sample size is not definitive. It cant be, when you’ve got 3 twelve year old goalies and one’s so infirm you can’t get a real look at him.
....when the truth is if they knew anything about the game, they'd be in it.
--GMGM
Then, we don’t know how good Varly was two years ago. Sample size is not definitive either way, but considering Holtby’s age, the status of almost every other future NHL goalie at that age, and the distribution of goalie talent…it’s unlikely Holtby will be ready to start for any extended period of time (which he’ll have to do if Neuvirth gets hurt). It’s not a knock on Holtby, just pointing out most 21 year old goalies aren’t that good.
My blog and Twitter, featuring coverage of the most frustrating team in the NHL
If you don't know how to use Timeonice, read this.
Behindthenet quick link to QoC/QoT/Corsi/PDO/Zonestarts
"Numbers don't lie, they just don't agree with you"--George E. Ays
If I reference a lot of stats, just assume I haven't seen anything to contradict or invalidate them.
by red army line on Mar 24, 2011 1:32 PM EDT up reply actions
Just compare the career of Varly and Holtby prior to their being drafted.
Those accomplishments factor into where they were picked and also how quickly the Capitals would then want to put them on the ice in the NHL.
So while Holtby may now have comparable NHL games played to Varly this time two years ago, the sample size isn’t as large. Varly was more of a known commodity in ’09 than Holtby is now.
"You do that you go to the box, you know. Two minutes by yourself and you feel shame, you know. And then you get free."
My question would be whether developmentally it would be better for Holtby to have another year in Hershey, rather than sharing time with Neuvy at the NHL level.
Don’t make fun of my obsession over ketchup dispensers ever again! ;) Ted Leonsis
I don’t think the sample size is big enough to choose any of the 3 goalies over the other for the long term. At this point it’s all about evaluating their potential and considering who you think is most likely to reach their potential (or come close). I think there are certainly reasonable arguments that Holtby is more likely to reach his potential than Varlamov. Holtby certainly isn’t proven, but I think Varlamov and Neuvirth are pretty far from proven as well.
Release the Mackan!
by Killer_Carlson on Mar 24, 2011 12:58 AM EDT up reply actions
n other words, he’s not gonna come cheap.
Well, the training and treatment upgrades he’ll reap @KHL — that’s something right there, especially in the present circumstance. Throw in the chance for Varlamov to prove himself against the best active seniors hockey players in the world Russia, and you can see why GMGM will have to pay top dollar…
....when the truth is if they knew anything about the game, they'd be in it.
--GMGM
The KHL’l shell out for him, just saying.
Follow me!
Currently Netflixing: Arrested Development - Season 2
Great, see ya Varly!
Dale Hunter would punch the 2010-2011 Caps right in the Kidneys
Follow me on Twitter
First, it’s simple negotiation tactics; Second, it’s his Russian agent. Third, he doesn’t have much leverage at the moment outside of the KHL leverage…
Curious whether Chesnokov was looking for this story or whether this story found Chesnokov…
If this story has legs, and if Varly is really thinking K, I can think of a team with some talent at forward, a desperate need for goaltending, and oodles of shiny new petrocash.
“Hey Evgeny Kuznetsov! What’s fun in Chelyabinsk?”
You perhaps knew me better as "Your Nation's Capital." Same great commentary, now with 100% more transparency!
Uh oh...
@dchesnokov:
#Caps Semyon Varlamov’s Russian Agent Vyacheslav Makhrensky states that Varlamov (RFA this summer) is considering offers from the #KHL.
by Berube Doobie Doo on Mar 23, 2011 4:44 PM EDT reply actions
I’m hearing Varlamov’s agent says he is considering offers from the KHL.
"Hockey is my life, wine is my passion." -- Igor Larionov
by Scott in Shaw on Mar 23, 2011 5:48 PM EDT up reply actions
After some quick control-f work, I counted 21 comments in today’s Caps Clips that began with some form of “Agree,” “Agreed,” “I agree,” etc. This really is a very likeminded community, isn’t it?
No man is an Islander.
by Flash in the Pan on Mar 23, 2011 5:40 PM EDT reply actions
Agreed, but
4 of them were qualified, like “agreed but,” several of them were quotes from other articles..
I should probably do some homework now.
The keyboard is mightier.
Some days.
Six Beers Too Many fantasy team: It's Neu-virth Than Usual
"I wake up in the middle night frustrated because we lost out in the first round and I want to see our players hoist the Stanley Cup." -Brooks Laich
by CapitalCentre on Mar 23, 2011 5:50 PM EDT up reply actions
Not the conclusion I’d draw. I’d say that it has more to do with some people being verbose in their agreement, rather than using the rec button.
"Essentially, all models are wrong, but some are useful" George E.P. Box
by Knee high to a duck on Mar 23, 2011 7:28 PM EDT up reply actions 3 recs
RMNB has some quotes from VArly:
-He says he is fully healthy: “I feel great.”
-Says he thinks the coaches know who the playoff goalie will be but haven’t told the players
-Says for the second straight year “something weird is going on with me.”
-Says Ovie was “simply tired.”
"You do that you go to the box, you know. Two minutes by yourself and you feel shame, you know. And then you get free."
Comments For This Post Are Closed
Secondary Sidebar
User Tools
Related FanPosts on Japers' Rink
Related FanShots on Japers' Rink
FanPosts
Community blog posts and discussion.
Recent FanPosts
FanShots
Quick hits of video, photos, quotes, chats, links and lists that you find around the web.
Recent FanShots
The Vault
In Association With
Latest Puck Daddy - NHL from Yahoo! Sports
- Who are the Non-Smythe candidates for the Devils, Kings?
- End is near for Rick Nash, Blue Jackets as trade discussions set to resume
- Why the Devils and the Kings are evidence the Capitals shouldn’t trade Alex Ovechkin
- Eulogy: Remembering the 2011-12 New York Rangers
- Stanley Cup Final: 5 keys for New Jersey Devils and Los Angeles Kings
Latest stories and headlines from NHL.com
- Driven DeBoer delivers Devils back to NHL's elite
- Driven DeBoer, fired by Panthers, delivers Devils back to the land of elite in just one year
- Bruins acquire son of Hall of Famer Ray Bourque
- Bruins add a Bourque: Chris Bourque, son of Hall of Famer Ray Bourque, acquired from Capitals
- Shinnimin named CHL's Player of the Year
