Tuesday Caps Clips: Green Ready, Knuble Inked
by J.P. on Apr 12, 2011 6:25 AM EDT
in Caps Clips
Email
PrintYour savory breakfast links:
- Notes and assorted whatnot from yesterday's day at Kettler:
- In general. [CI (Carrera), CI (Carrera), 106.7 The Fan (Kerstein), bridgetds (pics)]
- On Mike Green's presumed return to the lineup. [CSN Washington (O'Halloran)]
- John Erskine is digging life as a regular. [CSN Washington (Raby]
- Chatting with Jason Arnott. [Caps365 (video)]
- On Mike Knuble's contract extension. [Capitals, CW (Whyno), CI (Carrera), DCEx (McNally), Box Seats, KOL, THW]
- Memories of the last time these two teams met in the post-season. [D.C. Sports Bog (and for memories from even further back, a FanPost)]
- How the Caps have grown up since then. [WashTimes (Whyno)]
- This year's version promises to be one of the more interesting first-round match-ups. [Puck Daddy]
- What a year for Bruce Boudreau. [WaPo (El-Bashir)]
- Is any one player in this series more important to his team's success than Henrik Lundqvist? [Peerless, Insider2]
- Marian Gaborik is pretty important, too. [NYPost]
- But wait! There are more keys to the series than just those guys. [ESPN (Hume), SB Nation DC, CRtC, OFB, Daily News (Spector), Skate Skate SHOOT (video)]
- The Rangers are short on playoff experience. [NYT]
- Arnott used to stereotype Russian players, but no longer does. Guess who changed his mind (hint: not Alexander Semin). [D.C. Sports Bog]
- Speaking of Arnott... what a pick-up. [Vancouver Sun]
- Lots of words here, but I just see Brooks Laich telling Joe Corvo to shut it. [NHL.com]
- Here you go, geeks - cumulative score tied Corsi for all eight playoff series (and by "you" I mean "we"). [Objective NHL, with more Corsi-related goodness in this FanPost]
- If you're one to play the ponies, here are the 16 playoff teams' odds to win it all. [SB Nation]
- More predictions:
- Kudos to George McPhee (and, by extension, his staff) for being named NHL.com's GM of the Year. [NHL.com (Compton)]
- Things sure were tight atop the East. [Daly OT]
- Ted Leonsis did Elliot in the Morning yesterday. [YouTube]
- Hockey's back in B'more. [Frankovic]
- Diving deeper on winning four out of seven. [FanPost]
- Matt Hendricks' perserverence has paid off (literally and figuratively). Boffo feature on the Caps' Masterton nominee. [Capitals]
- The key to the Caps' success? Country music. Awful, awful country music. [Homer McFanboy]
- Alex Ovechkin shoots pucks off a roof. (We pretty much did this in college, except it was golf balls and a slingshot... and much dumber.) [D.C. Sports Bog, Capitals Outsider]
- AO with The People's Reporter. [TheScore (video)]
- John Carlson finishing in the top-five for the Calder wouldn't surprise anyone, but might one of his teammates also be a top-five finisher for a major award? [SI (Farber)]
- Some scintillating season superlatives. [KOL, KOL, KOL, KOL]
- Operation Poncho lives. [FanPost]
- A firsthand account of the SRO experience at Verizon Center. [RtR]
- No European vacation for the Caps next fall, but they're hopeful that the opportunity might present itself further on down the road. [Dump 'n Chase]
- Finally, happy 56th birthday to Antero Lehtonen, happy 58th birthday to Mike Bloom and happy 61st to Bob Girard.
759 comments
|
1 recs |
Do you like this story?
Comments
Woke up early this morning so I turned on NHL Network. They were re-broadcasting the Caps-Pens game from December. Just when Knuble scores the short-handed goal in the third period, the broadcast freezes and stays that way until NHL Fly starts up at 6. So the game ends in a 2-2 tie (as it should have) thanks to Mike Knuble, Pens Killer. Yup, he deserved the extension.
"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.
I wish I was as lucky as you. My son and I watched bleary eyed as Dupuis roofed the winner in the shutout. That should teach my son to sleep later.
by HateOffSeason on Apr 12, 2011 7:02 AM EDT up reply actions
I watched that game earlier in the evening, but turned it off before Dupuis. I had forgotten just how great of a game Neuvy played. Also rewatched the WC (on my iPad) and Varly was outstanding. Neither of them may be the proven like Hank but both are more than capable of holding their own.
"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 Apr 12, 2011 7:43 AM EDT up reply actions
Me too!
I saw this game for the first time yesterday (I was away for Xmas) when the NHL network rebroadcast it and I noticed something – BB had 5 forwards on the PP and he also had 4 forwards and Green on some of the others. Having missed this game, I didn’t realize he went to it earlier in the season.
Yeah, I tried to check out some of the country music artists that guys like Fehr and Alzner were recommending. Not gonna end up on my iPod anytime soon.
Waiting for the day Al Iafrate calls and tells me he's my father.
The shit that the young guys were talking about is trash. Kenny Chesney = vomit.
Chimera knows the score, though. Merle Haggard is tight, and Alan Jackson and George Straight are OK.
Patron saint of quality footwear.
I completely agree. Chimera was fun to talk to about this (probably because I was the only person in the locker room not asking him about the “healthy scratch” rotation). He had some fun with it and the thought of locking Ovechkin on a farm for a couple years until he finally accepts country music still cracks me up.
Waiting for the day Al Iafrate calls and tells me he's my father.
Funny, sort of OT Chimera story: last year at a Kids Club autograph thing, Chimera (who was still a new Cap) and Carlson were the two Caps signing. My older son (10) skipped right past Chimera to give his hat to JC, while my younger one (6) stopped and gave his to Chimera first. Chimera stopped my older one, laughed about how his feelings were hurt, but agreed with him that Carlson’s autograph would be worth a lot more in the short and long run. Classy guy, won over a bunch of fans right there.
名誉と大きな脳物質のステッケルミーエルモ男！
Chimera was fun to talk to about this (probably because Iwas the only person in the locker room not asking him about the "healthy scratch" rotationdidn’t have any fancy stats related to his ability).
Fixed that for you.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
by J.P. on Apr 12, 2011 8:47 AM EDT up reply actions 2 recs
Unfortunately I can only hit the rec button once
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
Outlaw Country is deccent. alt-country rules. Pop country or whatever they call it these days is horrendous. /OT
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
Yup (though I admit to a more surface-level affinity, not too deep).
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
Lyle Lovett, Robert Earl Keen, Guy Clark, Jerry Jeff Walker…basically the Texas version of country…it’s alot more like singer-songwriter stuff. Very witty lyricists and good tune-smiths.
Stay away from top 40 and the big “names” (Reba, Chesney, Garth Brooks, Brooks & Dunn – anything you see on Entertainment tonight or a Country Music Awards show is crap)
I'll never put on a life jacket again
Alright, no more music talk here (and my apologies for stoking the fire on it).
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
Interesting takeaway from the Arnott on Russians article. While I thought about him bringing a vocal, veteran presence to the team, I guess I never took the idea to its logical conclusion. We were also getting a vocal, veteran leader who would bring the ideas and training from one of the better defensively minded coaches in the business. I don’t think this team needs a Lemaire as coach, but a little input from his mindset to correct some of the weaknesses on the team couldn’t hurt.
I thought his bit about Lou interesting too. Arnott has brought focus to the details, some of them he apparently noticed when watching 24/7. And the room is listening to him.
All in all that was a really informative interview with a grinning Arnott. Guy sure is happy to be here. What a difference the right trade can make.
"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 Apr 12, 2011 7:36 AM EDT up reply actions
We pretty much did this in college, except it was golf balls and a slingshot… and much dumber.
“They can’t do that to our pledges!”
“Only WE can do that to our pledges!”
"My favorite fan base in D.C. Is United's. Period. The end." - Steinberg
OT moment...sorta
Alex Ovechkin shoots pucks off a roof. (We pretty much did this in college, except it was golf balls and a slingshot… and much dumber.)
In college, a friend and I used a closet hanger rod (the old tubular kind) and bottle rockets as a poor man’s bazooka. We used to fire rockets off our apartment balcony at the student house across the street.
Young folks are really, really stoopid.
If you've read this far...seek help.
And how many current Caps are in exactly that age range? Sometimes it’s good to remember such things. (Other times… not so much.)
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
Joe Finley just read this thread and cringed.
And he cocked both his pistols and he spit in the dirt; And he walked out into the street
Box Seats Blog
Twitter
Ron and Fez 11 to 3
by YvonLabresMoustache on Apr 12, 2011 8:14 AM EDT up reply actions
Wasn’t that him and Matt Frattin?
And he cocked both his pistols and he spit in the dirt; And he walked out into the street
Box Seats Blog
Twitter
Ron and Fez 11 to 3
by YvonLabresMoustache on Apr 12, 2011 8:56 AM EDT up reply actions
A couple of Brett Flemming’s teammates are on twitter. I have now seen things I cannot un-see.
You perhaps knew me better as "Your Nation's Capital." Same great commentary, now with 100% more transparency!
OT/
When you need someone to charge up a hill and attack a barricaded machine gun, no questions asked, it’s great to have a couple of 19-year-olds around.
There’s a trade off in times of peace.
/end OT
Patron saint of quality footwear.
by fat_daddyo on Apr 12, 2011 8:58 AM EDT up reply actions 3 recs
favorites, via Bodog.com:
Vancouver Canucks: 3 to 1
Washington Capitals: 11 to 2
New York Rangers: 35 to 1
In terms of probability, Vegas is paying out as if VAN has a 50% chance, WSH 22%.
A coin flip to win the Cup seems awfully high, which shows you why Vegas is able to build a billion dollar pyramid in the desert.
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
No kidding – anyone who would bet “Vancouver” over “The Field” is a dope.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
Vegas is essentially saying that VAN has an 84% chance to win each series, which is just insane.
(84% to win each series, has to win four series for Cup so .84 * .84 * .84 *.84 = 50%)
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
Nice context there. Yeah, that’s even loonier than 50% appears on its own.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
There would be no Vegas if there weren’t people dumb enough (or addicted enough) to make bets like that.
And he cocked both his pistols and he spit in the dirt; And he walked out into the street
Box Seats Blog
Twitter
Ron and Fez 11 to 3
by YvonLabresMoustache on Apr 12, 2011 8:15 AM EDT up reply actions
When I was in Vegas in early February I threw down 20 bucks on the Caps to win it all at six to one odds. Payout is $140 if they win. If they do, I’ll be thrilled. If not, I shrug my shoulders and think of it as one less round of beers next time I go out with friends.
Does that make me dumb for (in all likelihood) wasting 20 bucks?
Waiting for the day Al Iafrate calls and tells me he's my father.
No, I’m only referring to the compulsive gamblers whom Vegas counts on to make dumb bets and play casino games they’re going to lose most of the time, and really, I guess some of those people can’t help themselves.
And he cocked both his pistols and he spit in the dirt; And he walked out into the street
Box Seats Blog
Twitter
Ron and Fez 11 to 3
by YvonLabresMoustache on Apr 12, 2011 8:36 AM EDT up reply actions
Like slot machines? For every dollar fed into them, they return 94.5 cents, or something ridiculous like that?
I hate gambling.
Patron saint of quality footwear.
Everything is geared towards them taking your money. Even if you win a ton of it, they’ll eventually win it back, because they’re counting on you being greedy enough (or addicted enough) to keep going back again and again, which only pushes the odds more in their favor.
And he cocked both his pistols and he spit in the dirt; And he walked out into the street
Box Seats Blog
Twitter
Ron and Fez 11 to 3
by YvonLabresMoustache on Apr 12, 2011 8:42 AM EDT up reply actions
They dont build those massive structures on winners
Check out a new social network, Hockey Connect, a place for coaches, players, family and fans to share strategies and experiences.
It varies between about 94% and about 98% (mostly depending on how old the casino is).
But compare it to the lottery, which generally only returns about half of the money that goes in.
Geeks of All Nations, Compile!
it is also entertainment. Some people would rather spend their entertainment dollars on gaming. it is no different then those who want to spend it on sports tickets, or go to concerts. If you have it great. The problem s most people do not have as much expendable cash as they end up spending because they lack some impulse control. It is a very difficult place to control your compulsive behaviors if you have them. Gambling Addicts are no different then drug addicts or alcoholics.
Check out a new social network, Hockey Connect, a place for coaches, players, family and fans to share strategies and experiences.
Does that make me dumb for (in all likelihood) wasting 20 bucks?
Depends how badly you need $20, but considering that there is some entertainment value gained in simply placing a bet and rooting for it to come through, it’s doubtful.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
Long as you consider it an entertainment expense rather than a financial investment, you’re fine.
Atta dinnin stick a who!
by Gould Old Days on Apr 12, 2011 8:53 AM EDT up reply actions
Don’t forget it is also about playing the odds for the house to win for sports gambling.
Van is statistically the strongest team in the playoffs so its odds of winning are highest and pay out lowest per $. But with sports, just like playing cards or dice, anything can happen.
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.
Minus rogue referees and players on the take. Oh wait, Donaghy was the only rogue referee in all of sport, and they caught him.
Case closed.
I can resist anything, except temptation.
Don’t forget about Marty Turco
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.
Is The Field an option? If so, what are its odds? I’d be surprised they offered a field bet once playoffs are set. Those are usually start-of-season or large tourney bets.
名誉と大きな脳物質のステッケルミーエルモ男！
I doubt it, just contextualizing by noting that a bet for Vancouver means (based on Neil’s comment) that you think they have as good a chance to win as the other 15 teams combined.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
Mind you, if we all got together and made specific bets in a coordinated fashion, and then pooled the earnings (like a mutual fund), we could replicate a field bet.
Anyone up for it?
Atta dinnin stick a who!
by Gould Old Days on Apr 12, 2011 8:54 AM EDT up reply actions
Aren’t the payouts skewed to prevent this from being profitable?
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 Apr 12, 2011 9:14 AM EDT up reply actions
Exactly right – it wouldn’t add up.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
They’d have to be very specific bets in a very coordinated fashion.
< taps nose >
Atta dinnin stick a who!
by Gould Old Days on Apr 12, 2011 10:47 AM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
I was hoping someone would break down the odds.
Caps seem a little high to me, Rags a little low.
Patron saint of quality footwear.
Caps seem a little high to me, Rags a little low.
I give WSH a 57% chance to beat NYR in the series. If this percentage held throughout playoffs (it won’t) Caps “should” be about 10 to 1 to win Cup. Vegas is offering about half that.
This is why I only play poker.
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
57 – 43? I’m sure you have more than a gut feeling behind those numbers. Do you mind sharing?
Patron saint of quality footwear.
Not at all. It’s easier to point you to an explanation but essentially I figure out chances WSH has to beat NYR in one game, then just run through all the possible playoff scenarios and add up the probabilities of each one.
I had a RMNB post on this subject but we had a server crash and lost the draft.
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
Nice. You used Log5, or straight line? And do you count OT-losses as simple losses, or are you using points percentage?
And I note that the Caps are similar favorites to what NYY were to ANA in 2002…wasn’t that the year Glaus tore the cover off the ball and the Angels knocked the Yanks out int he Divisional Series?
Patron saint of quality footwear.
You used Log5, or straight line?
Log5
And do you count OT-losses as simple losses, or are you using points percentage?
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
000
Last time I used Log5:
And he cocked both his pistols and he spit in the dirt; And he walked out into the street
Box Seats Blog
Twitter
Ron and Fez 11 to 3
by YvonLabresMoustache on Apr 12, 2011 8:58 AM EDT up reply actions
Don’t the Rags have a better Pythag number than the Caps, based on their superior goal differential?
In other words, how do the Caps end up favorites if you’re using Pythag? Home-ice advantage adjustment?
Patron saint of quality footwear.
I use last 35 games, which have been found to be the most relevant with first round playoff performance.
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
Aha. I gotcha. Nicely constructed bit of analysis. I’ll take 57 – 43.
I’d heard about the last 35 games thing, by the bye… The Pythag angle is a nice touch, though. Wish I’d thought of it.
Patron saint of quality footwear.
Let me doublecheck my spreadsheet. Maybe my math is off today.
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
If my math is wrong on orig odds (and it could be) and VAN is 25% chance to win Cup acc to Vegas, that still puts them as ~71% chance to win each series – still high IMO.
Thanks for heads up.
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
Thanks!
I am jetting to Vegas tomorrow morning, and planning to put my money where my mouth is for my Caps. Now I know the potential windfall. Sadly, I will be on the golf course at puck drop. Dropped by Kettler yesterday and picked up a pair of nice Caps polos so I will be rocking red during the game.
Congrats to GMGM. I thought Yzerman would have been a stone cold lock for that award this year. (Good work agents Masisak and Leonhardt!)
You perhaps knew me better as "Your Nation's Capital." Same great commentary, now with 100% more transparency!
I was waiting to see when someone brought up McPhee and his winning the GM of the Year. The guy operates like a stealth bomber. While Yzerman is getting all the glory for making the Lightning competitive, McPhee is methodically pulling the strings that make his team better in all the right places. The guy did a hell of a job this year. There really are no excuses for this team to not advance deep in the playoffs.
There really are no excuses for this team to not advance deep in the playoffs.
BB is on the hot seat starting Wednesday night.
by Berube Doobie Doo on Apr 12, 2011 9:53 AM EDT up reply actions
At this point, it is on the players. Execute, and they will prevail.
You perhaps knew me better as "Your Nation's Capital." Same great commentary, now with 100% more transparency!
The guy operates like a stealth bomber.
Yep, this sums it up.
by redpezrocket on Apr 12, 2011 10:29 AM EDT up reply actions
weagle shaped confetti! a well-deserved recognition
Pledge Drive 2010-2011: SO KIDS CAN!! Help build a playground
The only thing that would have made that Brooks Laich comment better is if he followed it up with “that was for you, JP”
by TJA on Apr 12, 2011 7:53 AM EDT via mobile reply actions 1 recs
He didn’t have to – we all knew.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
Has anyone confirmed Corvo was a cancer?
Patron saint of quality footwear.
by fat_daddyo on Apr 12, 2011 8:22 AM EDT up reply actions 2 recs
I just read an article where they’ve renamed cancer “Corvo”.
And he cocked both his pistols and he spit in the dirt; And he walked out into the street
Box Seats Blog
Twitter
Ron and Fez 11 to 3
by YvonLabresMoustache on Apr 12, 2011 8:25 AM EDT up reply actions
Heh. It’s pretty obvious that he didn’t fit well.
I’m just wondering if anyone has direct quotes or similar evidence.
Patron saint of quality footwear.
I know it probably doesn’t mean much in context, but his “I don’t know why they brought me here” quote was pretty telling to me.
And he cocked both his pistols and he spit in the dirt; And he walked out into the street
Box Seats Blog
Twitter
Ron and Fez 11 to 3
by YvonLabresMoustache on Apr 12, 2011 8:29 AM EDT up reply actions
Hm, that’s pretty bad. I had forgotten, or overlooked, the fact that he said that.
Patron saint of quality footwear.
He also mentioned something about the CAR locker room being a more mature one that the “high energy” Caps’ crew. I’ll look it up when I get home from work (I know Pothier also mentioned something about the difference, but it was more an observation than slight to either team, as Corvo’s was.)
Dingos are involved. Best not to ask.
I think it was just cancer like symptoms.
First Round Exit! (Clap Clap ClapClapClap) First Round Exit!
by Rob Parker on Apr 12, 2011 9:35 AM EDT up reply actions 8 recs
Eh, he was just a flu.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
by J.P. on Apr 12, 2011 8:26 AM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
For what it’s worth, Carl over at FFH did a nice interview with current media flunkie (in the nicest way possible) Sergey Kocharov, who previously worked with the ’Yotes.
"My favorite fan base in D.C. Is United's. Period. The end." - Steinberg
by Bald Pollack on Apr 12, 2011 8:02 AM EDT reply actions 2 recs
Great read. I recommend it, won’t take too much time. I like some of the discussion about the differences in where DC and PHX are in the development of their teams.
First Round Exit! (Clap Clap ClapClapClap) First Round Exit!
CP was kind enough to send me it and let me lend my voice to the choir and wholly recommend his work.
Rice is great if you're really hungry and want to eat two thousand of something.
by Rather Bengt on Apr 12, 2011 10:08 AM EDT up reply actions
Show off. You can really tell which parts you ruined contributed to.
First Round Exit! (Clap Clap ClapClapClap) First Round Exit!
I know. All those "u"s I added to it to make it more Canadian.
Rice is great if you're really hungry and want to eat two thousand of something.
by Rather Bengt on Apr 12, 2011 10:10 AM EDT up reply actions
Thanks guys.
The Artist Formerly Known as CP2Devil.
Associate Editor at Five For Howling.
by Carl Putnam on Apr 12, 2011 11:35 AM EDT up reply actions
Like drinking from a firehose?
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
That explains the marble in my oatmeal.
by Wheeler on Apr 12, 2011 8:34 AM EDT up reply actions 6 recs
Two UHF references in a week! Life is good.
by Berube Doobie Doo on Apr 12, 2011 9:57 AM EDT up reply actions
Impressive mullett on Alan May in those fight videos. The announcer referred to him as a heavyweight. I don’t recall him being a heavyweight. More of a middleweight who wasn’t afraid to fight up in weight class. Love that you can turn that tweet into some great nostalgia.
BTW, how great is hockeyfights.com (except for the comments, which make me weep for our species)? That and capgeek.com are two of the tightest web sites in sports. Always up to date with tons of great info.
Just trying to capture the spirit of the thing...
Its how Tim Pawlenty winds down!! /no joke
And he cocked both his pistols and he spit in the dirt; And he walked out into the street
Box Seats Blog
Twitter
Ron and Fez 11 to 3
by YvonLabresMoustache on Apr 12, 2011 8:30 AM EDT up reply actions
To be fair on Lozo’s “Why the Rangers will Win the Cup” piece, he offered this disclaimer on twitter:
While I did write why the Rangers (http://is.gd/mlZgSz) and Kings (http://is.gd/mlZgSz) will win it all, I don’t think they’ll win it all.
It’s more hypothetical, like a Why I’ll Make Out With Heidi Klum story. While I may outline a plan for it, it doesn’t mean it’ll happen.
Also, if you’re not following him on twitter, you should be. He’s pretty funny and will be offering coverage of the Caps-Rangers series along with Corey.
Yep, it was a homework assignment for NHL.com writers (Corey had Caps and Pens, Lozo Rangers and Kings, iirc).
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
Corey had Caps and Pens
Oh man, that’s like writing a brief on why both the North and South will win the Civil War.
by HockeyGoalie29 on Apr 12, 2011 9:24 AM EDT up reply actions 3 recs
Except, Ken Burns had to go and document baseball.
Winterion Game Studios
Visit us online at : http://winterion.com
One of the best documentarys ever. Started watching it one saturday afternoon and didn’t get up except to get the pizza and go to the bathroom for 9 hours.
I can resist anything, except temptation.
That must have been some poisoned pizza. Sorry.
名誉と大きな脳物質のステッケルミーエルモ男！
by stemmer on Apr 12, 2011 10:36 AM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
d’oh. I was hoping for a cool Cap birthday today. I guess i’ll just have to settle for the start of Civil War and first man in space…
"Drive defensively" -Marge
"Sometimes the best defense is a good offense" -Homer
by Alz in the family on Apr 12, 2011 9:00 AM EDT reply actions
I think it’s the day Franklin Roosevelt died as well.
And he cocked both his pistols and he spit in the dirt; And he walked out into the street
Box Seats Blog
Twitter
Ron and Fez 11 to 3
by YvonLabresMoustache on Apr 12, 2011 9:01 AM EDT up reply actions
you are correct.
"Drive defensively" -Marge
"Sometimes the best defense is a good offense" -Homer
by Alz in the family on Apr 12, 2011 9:22 AM EDT up reply actions
Thus inspiring the song “American Pie” by Don Maclean.
Rice is great if you're really hungry and want to eat two thousand of something.
by Rather Bengt on Apr 12, 2011 10:15 AM EDT up reply actions
Re: Puck Daddy lamenting the lack of foliage in the Caps-Rangers series,.
He obviously doesn’t know the awesomeness that is Karl Alzner’s playoff beard.
Rice is great if you're really hungry and want to eat two thousand of something.
or do any sort of google search on Ovi to learn that he is in fact allowed a playoff beard. it took me all of 15 seconds to search and find ESPN and WaPo articles stating Ovi could grow one.
Yeah, Wysh is usually more on top of Caps matters than that.
by Berube Doobie Doo on Apr 12, 2011 9:59 AM EDT up reply actions
Little known fact: They used Alzner’s beard clippings to make the Flyers “Perfect Season” commercial.
(Yes, I know about the avatar hounding - just pretend mine is invisible.)
by oldemystix on Apr 12, 2011 12:34 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
Not sure how predictive Cumulative Score-Tied Corsi is, but the graphs are interesting. VAN/CHI looks like a war, ANA/NSH looks very favorable for NSH, and the Caps are markedly superior to NYR in this metric.
Patron saint of quality footwear.
Generally more predictive than goal differential. I’ve wanted Van/Chi for a long time.
I didn’t realize how absurd the Sharks have been since the middle of the season. Holy smokes, that team is going to be a wicked rough matchup if they stay healthy.
"Essentially, all models are wrong, but some are useful" George E.P. Box
The profile picture is the result of a lost bet. Chris Burton's favorite footballer is Christiano Ronaldo.
by Knee high to a duck on Apr 12, 2011 9:25 AM EDT via mobile up reply actions
Regarding the Sharks, is Todd McLellan a really underrated coach, or does SJ’s lack of playoff success knock him down a notch? He never seems to get rcognition for one helming one of the consistently top teams in the league.
Rice is great if you're really hungry and want to eat two thousand of something.
by Rather Bengt on Apr 12, 2011 9:32 AM EDT up reply actions
I don’t think McLellan should get knocked for SJ’s lack of playoff success. This is only his third year and their playoff woes have gone on for much longer. Plus, he got the Sharks to the Conference Finals last year, so he’s already had some success.
Release the Mackan!
by Killer_Carlson on Apr 12, 2011 1:15 PM EDT up reply actions
And after last season, there’ve been far fewer “Sharks can’t win in the playoffs” jokes. We’ve absorbed most of those.
by Berube Doobie Doo on Apr 12, 2011 1:34 PM EDT up reply actions
Chicago v. Vancouver is not going to be anywhere near as lopsided as Canucks’ fans are theorizing. Can’t wait to watch.
"Nothing." - Tuukka Rask, after being asked what he saw on Shea Weber's game winner in overtime.
by Chris Burton on Apr 12, 2011 1:30 PM EDT up reply actions 2 recs
What really hit me about that was that the West has four teams over +200 by that metric, while the East has none at even +100.
Geeks of All Nations, Compile!
And then when you consider that those +200 teams were playing each other…
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 Apr 12, 2011 3:36 PM EDT up reply actions
Something I was writing up elsewhere in the context of the re-signings for next year. I know people are running rosters using capgeek, etc., but a simplistic look I took at viewing the cap situation from this season to next season in the context of re-signings to date:
Note:
2010-11: Max is $59.4M
2011-12: No performance bonus cushion; Cap max could be as high as a number like $62.2M based on recent info.; if it was $62.2, that would be a $2.8M increase; if no escalator it could stay flat or go down slightly from the $59.4M.
For speculation purposes at this point and time as it relates to the Caps, I think people should be using the $59.4M figure. Based on what we have seen to date, Caps prefer to have a little room and if there is no 5% escalator voted, this would be an approximation of the max.
Looking at the re-signings alone, not taking into account other UFAs and RFAs who need to be re-signed, etc.
Cap Hits from 2010-11 to 2011-12:
Erskine: $1.25M to $1.5M: +$250,000
Hendricks: $575,000 to $825,000: +$250,000
Knuble: $2.8M to $2M: -$800,000
Neuvirth: ($821,667 to $1.15M: +$328,333
Poti: $3.5M to $2.875M: -$625,000
Semin: $6M to $6.7M: +$700,000
So for the six players re-signed for next season since around training camp time (starting with Neuvirth’s contract), the cap hit for the 6 players combined increased $103,333 from 2010-11 season to the 2011-12 season.
Some additional information, In simplistic terms, players added/players traded and under contract for 2011-12: Steckel’s $1.1M subtracted; Wideman’s $3.9375 added
FWIW, Larry Brooks had some information about next year’s cap in a piece he wrote the other day (and yes, I know it’s Brooks, but there’s some decent info. in this.) At a minimum, one can assume the cap isn’t going down by very much based on the prelim. numbers. “The NHLPA has told agents that the union projects a salary cap of approximately $62.2 million next season if the players vote to trigger the 5-percent escalator….”
by sk84fun_dc on Apr 12, 2011 9:08 AM EDT reply actions 2 recs
Would the new TV contract revenue be applied to next year’s Cap?
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 Apr 12, 2011 9:19 AM EDT up reply actions
I don’t think that revenue would start coming in until the 2012-13 season.
by Berube Doobie Doo on Apr 12, 2011 10:02 AM EDT up reply actions
It’s an interesting question. By the CBA, it shouldn’t. But if everyone knows that the revenues on the year will be higher, why not agree to adjust the cap to accommodate the projections? CBA’s just a contract — owners and players could do it if they want.
At a minimum, it means that if the players trigger the escalator, then the salary caps may end up approximating what they should be assuming no escalator. You have to imagine the TV contract is going to be a serious increase in revenue.
Atta dinnin stick a who!
by Gould Old Days on Apr 12, 2011 10:52 AM EDT up reply actions
I’d have to look into how all the revenue stuff adds up and when any new tv contract revenue would even show up. I assume anything with a new tv contract would be for a future CBA and season, 2012-13 or later as mentioned, but simply assumptions at this time.
My take home from what I wrote up is the part I bolded about the 6 players extended. It is open to debate which of those players one did or did not want back and individual cap hits and term combinations. However, it is of note, IMO, that across the 6 contract extensions for players currently on the Caps roster (note: Poti on LTIR), the cap hit impact of the 6 contract extensions is an increase of only $103,333 for next season.
Yeah, that was a great post and point. Caps fans should be in for an interesting late June and July
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 Apr 12, 2011 11:24 AM EDT up reply actions
across the 6 contract extensions for players currently on the Caps roster (note: Poti on LTIR), the cap hit impact of the 6 contract extensions is an increase of only $103,333 for next season.
Interesting.
You perhaps knew me better as "Your Nation's Capital." Same great commentary, now with 100% more transparency!
Two Line Pass and I are auctioning our services off to the highest bidder this postseason and donating the money to charity. Want us to do our usual shit disturber routine and mix it up with guest appearances by Down Goes Brown, jtbourne, The Goalie Guild and more?
Pension Plan Puppets*
* Blog contains less than 2% puppet content by weight.
Does this count as spam? ;)
And he cocked both his pistols and he spit in the dirt; And he walked out into the street
Box Seats Blog
Twitter
Ron and Fez 11 to 3
by YvonLabresMoustache on Apr 12, 2011 9:32 AM EDT up reply actions
I’m not gonna lie… I’m keeping an eye on that auction…
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
In theory you guys could all pool money. It’s going to a good cause.
I’m surprised the bidding isn’t higher if only because a Down Goes Brown post that’s pro one team would seem to be worth more than the current price.
Pension Plan Puppets*
* Blog contains less than 2% puppet content by weight.
Sorry, I blew all my money on ponchos
Atta dinnin stick a who!
by Gould Old Days on Apr 12, 2011 10:55 AM EDT up reply actions 2 recs
Ships to: Local pick-up only
Maybe they’re really doing it to pick up women.
If you've read this far...seek help.
by ThePeerless on Apr 12, 2011 11:28 AM EDT up reply actions
I posted this late in the day yesterday in Clips, but I’d like to take another crack at generating some discussion. What does this mean to everyone? To me it’s smoking gun evidence that Gabe knows that teams can have an effect on shot quality, and that such effect can impact a goalie’s numbers as well as how you have to consider a team’s numbers. Of course, Gabe is still a self-righteous condescending prick when you bring up shot quality, so presumably he has retracted the post and admitted he was wrong (no chance) somewhere. Thoughts?
First Round Exit! (Clap Clap ClapClapClap) First Round Exit!
I replied there this same thing: this article is from 2009.
I can’t speak for Gabe, but I think a lot has changed since then.
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
And I’d like to hear what. I think it’s pretty hilarious that so much has changed in less than two seasons. But I’m all ears…
First Round Exit! (Clap Clap ClapClapClap) First Round Exit!
I think it’s pretty hilarious that so much has changed in less than two seasons.
not trying to get in an argument, but two years in terms of data collection is a s*&t ton and can lead to much different results.
Not too mention others doing research as well.
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
Which is why I take much of the current statistical analysis with a grain of salt – it seems to still be evolving/changing, and I get the feeling a few years from now a lot of the theories will have changed.
by MikeBrady on Apr 12, 2011 9:42 AM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
Ok, so when I say that we don’t have enough data to rule out shot quality the answer is “yeah we do, no team can consistently control it.” And then when I point to a lead Stat Mafia Don writing a post that exactly demonstrates what I’ve been trying to say, that some teams play to allow more shots but limit quality shots, the response is “well we didn’t have enough data then and now we do.” How convenient. What’s the point of even engaging in a meaningful discussion? How about you stats guys just get together and tell us what the objective truth is. Clearly we don’t have much of a clue.
What research, exactly, has changed from that post? What could have changed? How can you dismiss the conclusion that the 2008-09 Minnesota Wild were a team that gave up more shots in total, but fewer from the high percentage scoring areas? The game hasn’t changed so much in terms of how it’s played to limit that possibility.
First Round Exit! (Clap Clap ClapClapClap) First Round Exit!
by Rob Parker on Apr 12, 2011 9:46 AM EDT up reply actions 4 recs
I’m gonna use this answer whenever a Pens fan gloats about Crosby winning a Cup.
First Round Exit! (Clap Clap ClapClapClap) First Round Exit!
by Rob Parker on Apr 12, 2011 10:08 AM EDT up reply actions 2 recs
How about when he says the same thing in 2010. Too old?
Even though Minnesota seemingly followed a strategy of conceding shots (but limiting the quality of each chance), they’ve consistently outshot their opponents when Koivu is on the ice.
First Round Exit! (Clap Clap ClapClapClap) First Round Exit!
by Rob Parker on Apr 12, 2011 10:21 AM EDT up reply actions 5 recs
/needs more Buckhantz
And he cocked both his pistols and he spit in the dirt; And he walked out into the street
Box Seats Blog
Twitter
Ron and Fez 11 to 3
by YvonLabresMoustache on Apr 12, 2011 10:49 AM EDT up reply actions
i don’t know the exact timeline, but i know gabe said he had been “converted” after reading others’ work on the subject. (and therefore didn’t understand why us peons wouldn’t do our own reading instead of junking up his blog on a question that had already been answered.)
by Natty Bumppo on Apr 12, 2011 9:36 AM EDT up reply actions
Like I said, I’m just waiting for the explanation. Maybe Knee High has the retraction link somewhere, but it seems pretty obvious to me that at least that one team could control shot quality at the cost of shot quantity. I think the stats people talked about another post showing the Julien’s teams in Boston being able to do that well.
First Round Exit! (Clap Clap ClapClapClap) First Round Exit!
right, and he doesn’t want to provide you with an explanation, which was my main issue with the whole discussion. it was like “that subject is a waste of time since it’s already been solved,” but then he wasn’t explaining the solution for anyone new to the debate. it took other commenters like rob vollman to help me out.
but i don’t know why he’d need to officially retract his post anywhere. i’m sure JP has written things in the past that he’s since changed his mind about.
by Natty Bumppo on Apr 12, 2011 9:56 AM EDT up reply actions
And I don’t have a problem with changing minds. That happens. It’s human nature. It makes me trust you more if you’re willing to change your mind once in a while. But all the other stuff that you highlighted is what gets me.
I read the Avs/BtN dust up as a neutral observer and thought both sides came off bad, but that Hawerchuk was a condescending prick for not much reason and with a little more time to explain could have prevented that thing from escalating the way it did. And I feel the same way about the dust up with the Caps fan base. Nobody looks good but he had the ability to provide more information to change the course of the debate. Instead he ignored the really good posts (D’oh and Gouldie), swung at the low hanging fruit, and was general dismissive and condescending to anyone that didn’t think Neuvy was legitimately below average because of half a season’s worth of ESS%.
First Round Exit! (Clap Clap ClapClapClap) First Round Exit!
If you operate under the assumption that no system has been able to reliably reduce shot quality, wouldn’t there be a huge opportunity for a coach to come in and create such a system, earning himself a nice paycheck in the process? And since the incentive is there, surely someone would work to create such a system.
Operating under the assumption that it has never been done = it is impossible, is flawed. By that logic, no one should attempt to make preventive gear that can eliminate concussions, because it has never been done, and thus, never will be done.
I am a hockey fan first, and a Caps fan second.
by iwearstripes on Apr 12, 2011 10:53 AM EDT up reply actions
I don’t think too many folks believe that it’s impossible to limit shot quality. More that it’s difficult to mathematically prove when it has been done.
I think I’ve read an article to the effect that Babcock and Lemaire both successfully limit shot quality.
by Berube Doobie Doo on Apr 12, 2011 10:58 AM EDT up reply actions
From the rob vollman link:
I can get behind this kind of nuanced discussion:
Overall, the variance of shot quality is roughly 3 times what would be expected purely from luck, which means that the shot quality effect is easily statistically significant. As an explanatory variable, it is 4 to 5 times less important than shot differential. I’m not saying that shot quality is the be-all-and-end-all. For outlier teams that excel or are terrible at it, it is important to take into account. For most teams, it can be neglected. But to neglect it broadly is to fail in our fundamental task to understand and explain hockey.
First Round Exit! (Clap Clap ClapClapClap) First Round Exit!
by Rob Parker on Apr 12, 2011 11:32 AM EDT up reply actions 5 recs
Gabe is still a self-righteous condescending prick when you bring up shot quality
Also, got to disagree with this statement. All he asks is for some proof other than “I watch the game and saw it one time.”
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
And when you ask him the same thing about baseless claims, he explodes.
I dig his work and narrative of stats, but not opinion if that makes sense.
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.
That’s literally not what any of us argued. We argued about his methodology, the significance of results, whether shot quality was accurately being measured, whether there were other things his model didn’t consider. Things that required introspection and thought. Dismissing the dissenters as idiots who “saw it one time” is not fair to us or the debate. That’s precisely the attitude that got my dander up.
You can be pro stats, and the push-back is valuable, I just ask that you be fair to our position. Don’t paint us as some meatheads that can’t do math good and don’t understand the smart people. We have legitimate concerns, some of which are even highlighted in the stat community articles, and should be taken serially.
First Round Exit! (Clap Clap ClapClapClap) First Round Exit!
by Rob Parker on Apr 12, 2011 12:22 PM EDT up reply actions 5 recs
For those just tuning into this, what you’re seeing is really an expression of frustration over high expectations dashed. Many of us were very excited when BtN started a blog and joined SBNation. I’m talking about folks who were primed to be that site’s biggest boosters. Some of us have been greatly disappointed by the nature of the conversation there. It’s about tone — defensiveness, dismissiveness, condescension and a failure to own up to limitations of the analysis presented.
I feel like I’ve been lied to on more than one occasion by Hawerchuk. I’m not trying to use that word to be inflammatory, but it’s true — he has written things in arguments that he knew not to be the case. It makes it harder to accept his conclusions. (And mostly, I’ve stopped contributing over there because I don’t get any satisfaction from it.)
And with all due respect, Neil (because I’m a big fan of what you do), when you say “all he asks if for some proof other than ‘I watch the game and saw it one time,’” you’re treading very close to the line of what has pissed us off when we head over there. All we ask is for a forthright explanation of the basis for conclusions, and an acknowledgement of the limitations of one’s knowledge based on that evidence. And not to be treated like we’re stupid because we’re challenging some underlying assumptions or the method presented.
Atta dinnin stick a who!
by Gould Old Days on Apr 12, 2011 12:35 PM EDT up reply actions 6 recs
The bad taste ain’t left my mouth yet.
Atta dinnin stick a who!
by Gould Old Days on Apr 12, 2011 12:43 PM EDT up reply actions
All we ask is for a forthright explanation of the basis for conclusions, and an acknowledgement of the limitations of one’s knowledge based on that evidence. And not to be treated like we’re stupid because we’re challenging some underlying assumptions or the method presented.
First off let me say that I in no way ever want to (or mean to) offend anyone or belittle anyone else’s opinions.
As JP will tell you I truly value the feedback I receive here, both positive and negative, and will post a FanPost just so I can get the type of enlightened feedback I need that I can’t get on either RMNB or WaPo. Not that that means the people that read (or comment) on my stuff there are uneducated, but I think we would all agree the level of dialogue here is heads and shoulder above what we find on the internet elsewhere.
Second, I work a 9 to 5 and tend to not take as much care as I should perhaps when crafting responses here. That’s on me, but it is a function of time I can spend while at work and not my feelings on the level of intelligence that is here. If I come off as abrasive or a douche it is because I am rushing to get back to “real work,” not because I don’t think people are smart or have nothing to contribute.
Finally I apologize to anyone that may have felt that I belittled them or I had no interest in their comments, because that couldn’t be further from the truth.
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
Neil,
I’ll say I complement the stats with visual and experiential input, but I absolutely respect and appreciate the work you do and I don’t feel like you’ve ever been untoward to me or that I’ve seen.
Boss: "How's that task coming?" Alz: "Eh, it's trending Sasha." Boss: "What?" Alz: "..."
by Alz Well That Ends Well on Apr 12, 2011 2:34 PM EDT up reply actions
To be clear, my pointed personal comments are at one man only (Ok, 2, Zona). I don’t think the entire stats community are condescending pricks, but I do think they often put too much faith in their ability to statistically analyze hockey at this point. I’m not trying to put you in with Hawerchuk and Zona. They deserve their own special category.
I think the stats are valuable, but sometimes it seems like we’re being shown a candle and being told it’s the sun.
First Round Exit! (Clap Clap ClapClapClap) First Round Exit!
I mostly just lurk to learn when the discussion involves stats but you have never come off as harsh, reactionary, or defensive in your responses. You are willing to engage in a debate and you actually read carefully the other person’s response.
However I was completely put off by Hawerchuk in that joke of a discussion about the Caps goalie situation. And when he was caught out in his ignorance of just who Holtby was—an AHLer getting his first taste of the NHL—as well as the fact that he had no idea that Poti was injured and not part of the PK system he was analyzing or even that the system had been changed including with better personnel, he reacted defensively and dismissively.
Honestly I haven’t been back. I prefer to get my stats analysis from the gurus such as yourself because I know that you and the other incredible stats-heads here are basing your analysis on current and accurate facts. And when I ask for clarification no one here is condescending to me In their response.
"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 Apr 12, 2011 3:19 PM EDT up reply actions
that was a jab at Hawerchuk and only Hawerchuck, definitely not at you. And I really apologize if it came off that way.
Atta dinnin stick a who!
by Gould Old Days on Apr 12, 2011 3:28 PM EDT up reply actions
I’ve got to agree with what F&B and GOD are saying – Hawerchuk/Desjardins comes off as unbelievably condescending and dismissive of viewpoints that don’t originate from within his small coterie of fellow statisticians. When there is clear evidence that his analysis is lacking, he simply waves it away rather than acknowledging it. What makes this behavior even more frustrating is the hypocrisy of it, in that he commits the same errors that he criticizes in others.
The debate over the Caps’ PK, and the subsequent argument about the Caps’ goaltending exposed this tendency rather clearly. Despite a clearly minuscule sample size, he felt comfortable stating that the Caps had “clearly below average goaltending.” Personally, I made no comment about the Caps’ goaltending one way or the other, I just made the rather obvious observation that it was far too early, both in the season and in the careers of the Caps’ ’keepers, to make such a bold assertion. His response was simply to completely and totally ignore what I said and, as F&B points out, he chose to argue instead with the rabidly anti-stat people. For a guy who bases much of his analysis around increasing sample sizes, to base an analytical post on such flimsy evidence and then refuse to acknowledge it smacks of prejudice and hypocrisy.
The keys for me are bias and transparency when it comes to observation and analysis. Though I enjoy statistical analysis in hockey and find it useful, my number one tool in evaluating teams and players is always going to be the Mk I Eyeball. I tend to watch and “think” the game like a coach. Others might count scoring chances, I’d probably be more likely to count puck battles won and lost, the number of “danger zone” turnovers, the number of “traffic/second chance” shots, and the percentage of pucks that get in deep. While I love to watch displays of skill and talent, I have an affinity for players who shift the aforementioned categories in the right direction, which is why I love guys like Chimera and Knuble while Alex Semin frustrates the bejeezus out of me. While I think that Corsi is an interesting stat, I still think that Alex Tanguay is a more valuable player than Jason Blake because the ability to put the puck in the net consistently matters, even if you do it on a small number of shots. I think, over the course of my commentary, that I’ve made these biases and points of view pretty clear and I’m willing to debate them and they’re open for debate . . . precisely because they’re points of view.
Some members of the stats community in hockey, despite the fact that the field is still in its analytical infancy, treat their numbers and analysis as immutable, unalterable Truth. Their positions are frequently just as fraught with bias as anyone’s. While the stats community should be applauded for their contributions to our understanding of hockey, they should also realize that their contributions are just that – contributions. They aren’t Knowledge or Truth. Their ideas are fallible and mutable and a little humility is therefore warranted. Sadly, it’s almost never forthcoming (until they “change their mind” at a much, much later date).
What frustrates me most of all about people like Hawerchuk is that this paradigm played out around 10-15 years ago in baseball, when SABRmetricians and old-school baseball folks used to throw the same accusations at each other. Eventually, the SABR guys learned that they didn’t know everything and the old-school guys begrudgingly accepted that batting average, RBIs, Wins, ERA and WHIP weren’t the be-all and end-all of stats (and Felix Hernandez won the Cy Young and there was much rejoicing.)
People like F&B, GOD and myself aren’t trying to tell Hawerchuk and the rest of the stats community that they’re wrong, we’re simply trying to give some constructive criticism regarding some obvious holes or flaws in certain arguments. At best we get flippant responses, and at worst we simply get ignored.
Personally, I think shot quality exists. I think some players can drive shot quality (Alex Tanguay, for example), and I think others can reduce it. I think certain systems can work to reduce shot quality overall, but that this tendency may be difficult to sustain over several seasons because of personnel turnover, injuries or the inevitable adjustments of opposing players and coaches – one man’s shot blocker is another man’s screen. I also think that the simple proxies that hockey statisticians have used for shot quality thus far – mostly distance, it seems – are poor representations of shot quality. A one foot shot from a tight angle with the goalie squared up in the butterfly is likely a worse shot than a thirty foot shot with some traffic in front.
Most of all, I think that this debate probably won’t be resolved until the NHL gets a three-dimensional puck tracking system akin to MLB’s PitchFx.
Matt Hendricks is a honey badger.
by D'ohboy on Apr 12, 2011 1:32 PM EDT up reply actions 22 recs
Jesus…welcome back, D’ohboy.
Sunrise, sunset, swiftly fly the years. One season following another, laden with happiness and tears.
Every time he disappears for a while, he returns with an unexpected wall-of-awesome. It could make one consider just sending him away every so often.
"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 Apr 12, 2011 1:52 PM EDT up reply actions
Good idea. Just needs to change his name from D’ohboy to Perraultboy.
The Artist Formerly Known as CP2Devil.
Associate Editor at Five For Howling.
by Carl Putnam on Apr 12, 2011 1:53 PM EDT up reply actions 5 recs
Here here. Great post. I’ve missed your fabulous wall o’ text analyses. Back just in time for the playoffs.
"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 Apr 12, 2011 3:22 PM EDT up reply actions
From the Sloan conference this year someone posted “DIGR” http://www.behindthenethockey.com/2011/4/3/2088880/mit-sloan-sports-analytics-conference-and-hockey
Defense Independent Goalie Rating
Pension Plan Puppets*
* Blog contains less than 2% puppet content by weight.
Great stuff, when I actually have time I’d love to watch that panel and read that paper. FWIW, he says the people on the panel didn’t disclose knowledge of advanced stats, but I know Fishman is aware of them and considers them when the Caps evaluate players.
And I’d be willing to bet the author didn’t get $100 from Gabe for that.
First Round Exit! (Clap Clap ClapClapClap) First Round Exit!
That’s not what Gabe is talking about.
Shooting talent on the team level is different than a defensive system limiting quality chances.
Pension Plan Puppets*
* Blog contains less than 2% puppet content by weight.
At the Caps Convention, Zephyr asked Bruce is he looked at Corsi and Bruce replied ("paraphrasing here)
What the hell is a corsi rating
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 Apr 12, 2011 10:52 AM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
It was a pretty funny moment.
Although, the tinfoil hat part of my brain definitely noticed a quick glance between BBBB and Dean Evason, and that part of my brain concluded that they are intimately familiar with such statistics and don’t want to let on.
I don’t think a guy could turn around the Caps the way he has and not be, as Brooks Laich said, and absolute genius.
And he cocked both his pistols and he spit in the dirt; And he walked out into the street
Box Seats Blog
Twitter
Ron and Fez 11 to 3
by YvonLabresMoustache on Apr 12, 2011 11:48 AM EDT up reply actions
Did you watch 24/7? < grin >
Look, if the stats say that a coaching record like Boudreau’s, following a record like what preceded him, is 97% likely to be due to above average coaching ability, that would still mean that there’s a 3% chance he’s doing it out of pure luck.
Atta dinnin stick a who!
by Gould Old Days on Apr 12, 2011 12:46 PM EDT up reply actions
…So you’re telling me there’s a chance?
by Berube Doobie Doo on Apr 12, 2011 12:47 PM EDT up reply actions
I’m gonna need some #fancystats to back up that claim.
Boss: "How's that task coming?" Alz: "Eh, it's trending Sasha." Boss: "What?" Alz: "..."
by Alz Well That Ends Well on Apr 12, 2011 12:50 PM EDT up reply actions
Just when I thought you couldn't possibly be any dumber, you go and do something like this... and totally redeem yourself!
"The longer I delay myself getting to the real world, the better." - Mike Knuble
by Chaz-Capapalooza on Apr 12, 2011 12:54 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
The cumulative score tied Corsi link is real interesting. The BUF/PHI chart in particular makes me real curious and excited to see how that series plays out.
I definitely went to bat for ANA yesterday, so hopefully it doesn’t bite me. They really do not look good, but I’ll still pick them.
First Round Exit! (Clap Clap ClapClapClap) First Round Exit!
For philly, bsh had a post about rolling 10 game segments and corsi…the flyers are much, much worse without Pronger.
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 Apr 12, 2011 10:10 AM EDT up reply actions
But he’ll be back for the playoffs, right? So that is likely to turn around. I hope BUF catches lightning in a bottle… just for one round.
First Round Exit! (Clap Clap ClapClapClap) First Round Exit!
Story going around now is that Briere said pronger won’t play in game 1. Can’t link from my phone, sorry.
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 Apr 12, 2011 10:16 AM EDT up reply actions
Regarding that chart, is the Y axis absolute shot totals? If so, do we need to consider that some teams may have spent more or less time with the score tied?
First Round Exit! (Clap Clap ClapClapClap) First Round Exit!
I think youre right on both counts. Try behind the met old site, team stats, for man power time distribution.
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 Apr 12, 2011 10:18 AM EDT up reply actions
Anyone read on uncle Ted’s blog that he’s closing practices during the playoffs. I for one am not too upset about this. Yeah I do enjoy watching practice every now and then – but I think this is a good move.
Huh?
For a lot of teams, that means closing practices to the public in the playoffs. I don’t believe in that, and I’ve promised that all practices at Kettler Capitals Iceplex will be open and free.
"My favorite fan base in D.C. Is United's. Period. The end." - Steinberg
by Bald Pollack on Apr 12, 2011 9:39 AM EDT up reply actions
He says the opposite. He’s keeping them open but locking down parking.
That'll make your weagle wink!
The pants that bind us should be left behind us.
It says he’s not closing practices, just establishing a separate exit for players so they don’t get pestered.
This sig is brought to you by... Frungy, The Sport of Kings!
I remember they did that last year because the players were getting swamped coming out of the building
And he cocked both his pistols and he spit in the dirt; And he walked out into the street
Box Seats Blog
Twitter
Ron and Fez 11 to 3
by YvonLabresMoustache on Apr 12, 2011 9:47 AM EDT up reply actions
first week of the playoffs coincided with spring break for just about every area school last year, iirc. It made the general playoff craziness even crazier.
Pledge Drive 2010-2011: SO KIDS CAN!! Help build a playground
Same this year, as Fairfax County (and I assume others) are off all next week.
名誉と大きな脳物質のステッケルミーエルモ男！
DC and MoCo are off next week as well.
Pledge Drive 2010-2011: SO KIDS CAN!! Help build a playground
yea that will make it a madhouse, there are around 2000 students just as W-L highschool, and they can WALK to Kettler.
Aim for the head baby Jesus
And there might be literally dozens of hockey fans in the student body…
"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 Apr 12, 2011 1:53 PM EDT up reply actions
Naww… there is more than that, W-L. I knew several that were there when I went to Yorktown ages ago. Plus any team that wins becomes popular.
Aim for the head baby Jesus
W&L has a hockey team (combined with TCW I think)
I am a hockey fan first, and a Caps fan second.
by iwearstripes on Apr 12, 2011 2:17 PM EDT up reply actions
Wideman
Has anyone heard anything about him having surgery? Take this FWIW, and I usually never post things like this since it’s one of those “friend of a friend” stories…
Anyway, someone I work with goes to same doctor as the surgeon for the Caps, and he was supposed to have shoulder surgery tomorrow morning, but apparently it got pushed back to Thursday so he can do an emergency surgery on one of the Caps’ players. Just figured I’d see if there had been any news on Wideman in the last day or two.
by JimCareyFanClub on Apr 12, 2011 9:47 AM EDT reply actions
Or maybe the Dr. decided to take the day off.
Those stories aren’t worth obsessing over.
Pension Plan Puppets*
* Blog contains less than 2% puppet content by weight.
True, not really obsessing though because I know it’s just a word of mouth story. My thought was that if he gets into surgery now, that means that the problem has been fully diagnosed, and he can start recovering quicker, and there’s an outside chance he gets back for one of the later rounds. I agree with what you’re saying though.
by JimCareyFanClub on Apr 12, 2011 9:53 AM EDT up reply actions
If I understand the injury correctly, the surgery Wideman would have had to undergo is an incision in his muscle to pop open the membrane in his leg which was ballooning with leaking blood. That surgery would occur ASAP after the severity of the haematoma was diagnosed, because it would be unbearably painful and dangerous if left untreated.
I’m not a doctor (I’m a 19-year-old social sciences major with an introductory understanding of biology), but what Wideman is going through right now is mere recovery from the deep incision into his muscle. Once that heals, he will likely be able to start getting back to training. But seeing as it’s a bit of a nasty wound, it will take a while.
I don’t know if there’s surgery he’d have to undergo to repair the membrane around the leg muscle, however, or if there are other complications which can arise from this treatment.
He would have one or more surgeries to close the flap. This would be done by a plastic surgeon, however, not a regular surgeon. Also, it most likely would have been done by now, though perhaps not.
I’d agree, except for the person (Hooks?) was in the same hospital where Wideman was (I assume he’s out by now) and said he saw his name on a door. We all poo-poo’ed it, until it turned out to be true.
Then again, if the doctor or his office disclosed a patient, even without a name, that’s a problem.
Don’t try to figure Sasha out. Just ride the wave.
IIRC, it was Ben from BSH.
Rice is great if you're really hungry and want to eat two thousand of something.
by Rather Bengt on Apr 12, 2011 10:11 AM EDT up reply actions
Did we conclude that was true? Because I had a hard time believing that they put his name on the door, or any other patients’ name on the doors.
Anyway, I once had an appt canceled because the dr (a spinal surgeon) had to do emergency surgery on a Redskin, I was told. And I read in the next day that he did surgery on Reed Doughty. So there you go.
As I recall, it was first initial, last name, and I’d consider that to be normal procedure. We did have a discussion of what is/isn’t allowed under HIPPA.
Don’t try to figure Sasha out. Just ride the wave.
Actually, I didn’t bother to check, and I’m away from where it would have been convenient, so I don’t mind being corrected at all. I thought it didn’t look right.
Don’t try to figure Sasha out. Just ride the wave.
HIPAA says the hospital can’t do it without the patient’s permission, not that it can’t be done at all.
"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 Apr 12, 2011 1:54 PM EDT up reply actions
OT
"My favorite fan base in D.C. Is United's. Period. The end." - Steinberg
by Bald Pollack on Apr 12, 2011 2:01 PM EDT up reply actions
sorry
"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 Apr 12, 2011 2:09 PM EDT up reply actions
No worries, happens to the best of us.
"My favorite fan base in D.C. Is United's. Period. The end." - Steinberg
by Bald Pollack on Apr 12, 2011 2:10 PM EDT up reply actions
I know they said he should have been released late last week, but who knows? Keeping it quiet. But I’d also imagine that once he’s out and allowed to be about he’d be seen at Kettler, in street clothes, of course.
Don’t try to figure Sasha out. Just ride the wave.
You didnt see it?
Check out a new social network, Hockey Connect, a place for coaches, players, family and fans to share strategies and experiences.
Rather Bengt just got a reason to watch worlds this year – Tre Kronor added Patrik Berglund to the squad. They also added Magnus Pääjärvi and Mattias Tedenby.
Mikael Backlund and Calle Gunnarsson are the other NHL players so far.
by Malin A on Apr 12, 2011 10:32 AM EDT reply actions 1 recs
Awesome stuff. I have also really liked watching Paajarvi (excuse my lack of umlauts) play this year when I have seen the Oilers. Thanks for the heads-up Malin.
Rice is great if you're really hungry and want to eat two thousand of something.
by Rather Bengt on Apr 12, 2011 10:36 AM EDT up reply actions
Every photo I see of Knuble can be photoshopped, exchanging a hockey stick for a shovel.
It’s amazing.
by S h a g g y on Apr 12, 2011 10:40 AM EDT up reply actions
Get to know Anisimov – http://www.japersrink.com/2011/4/12/2105367/get-to-know-a-ranger-artem-anisimov
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
DGB
Experts warn that the coaching matchup between John Tortorella and Bruce Boudreau could lead to a severe worldwide shortage of f-bombs.
by Berube Doobie Doo on Apr 12, 2011 10:35 AM EDT reply actions 2 recs
ICBMs
Incessant Coaches’ Bad Mouths…
If you've read this far...seek help.
by ThePeerless on Apr 12, 2011 10:58 AM EDT up reply actions
um, what are those folks at the MTL gazette smoking?
a) they talk about overpowering Caps offence
b) they talk about seemingly not-that-strong Caps defence
c) ‘modest’ caps netminding
they care to remember how our third-string netminder fared against their team?
That’s so “2010”
If you've read this far...seek help.
by ThePeerless on Apr 12, 2011 10:58 AM EDT up reply actions
From Katie:
Mike Green is skating with what is likely one of the top two pp units and is part of the regular rotation on the PK drills today.
"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."
I just want him wearing ear guards.
by DrinkingPartner on Apr 12, 2011 11:30 AM EDT up reply actions
And a muzzle.
Patron saint of quality footwear.
by fat_daddyo on Apr 12, 2011 11:36 AM EDT up reply actions 4 recs
I know other than half shields, players aren’t allowed to wear any extra helmet equipment unless they’re injured… would be it possible since the last injury (or more specifically last game he played) was caused by a puck to the face, for him to wear a full-cage to avoid any players “recklessly” throwing elbows toward his head or “inadvertent high sticks” – I use quotes because I don’t down the Rangers would try to target Green’s head.
Just curious…
They actually “aren’t allowed” to wear what they want on their heads to protect themselves? Are you sure that’s right? If so, that rule needs to be fucking changed, because that’s ridiculous.
by DrinkingPartner on Apr 12, 2011 12:14 PM EDT up reply actions
I believe a half-shield is the only authorized helmet accessory… and that the only way a player can wear a full cage and/or shield is if they’re required to because of injury.
It seems silly that these wouldn't be allowed - sorry the pic is so big.
by DrinkingPartner on Apr 12, 2011 12:19 PM EDT up reply actions
Patrick Kane wears that Bauer helmet or one very like it, with the ear guards.
(At least, he did when the Blackhawks were in town. Noticed it at warmups.)
"If you close your eyes in the NHL, you'll take one upside the head." - Alexander Semin
by mercurialwinger on Apr 12, 2011 12:23 PM EDT up reply actions
which part are you referencing?
The ear pieces I believe are ok – and the padding inside is ok as they’re both considered part of the helmet. From what I’ve heard most players take the ear plastic off because they don’t hear as well w/ them in.
as for the mask… http://www.nhl.com/ice/page.htm?id=26285
9.6 Dangerous Equipment
A mask or protector of a design approved by the League may be worn by a player who has sustained a facial injury.
The clear plastic parts covering the ear holes is all I was talking about, originally. I was trying to imagine some piece of helmet that wouldn’t be authorized for play.
by DrinkingPartner on Apr 12, 2011 12:27 PM EDT up reply actions
I remember when Matty Perreault’s nose was broken, he only wore the full shield for (I think) one game before taking it off because he said he couldn’t see very well.
For his own safety, he probably should have kept it on, but hockey players won’t usually sacrifice playing at full effectiveness to be a little safer on the ice. Hockey is a tough sport, full of tough people. And one could argue that if he had the full shield and couldn’t see as well, that was a safety issue.
by redpezrocket on Apr 12, 2011 12:29 PM EDT up reply actions
I wonder how much product testing has been done on ear shields to determine the best design for protection and ability to hear.
(Yes, I know about the avatar hounding - just pretend mine is invisible.)
I’m not sure, but they’re shockingly effective. I took a puck in the ear that would have hurt like hell if I didn’t have the ear pieces in. It still hurt, but it didn’t cause me to miss any time.
I am a hockey fan first, and a Caps fan second.
by iwearstripes on Apr 12, 2011 1:52 PM EDT up reply actions
Interesting fact: over the past twenty years, Buffalo and Philadelphia have met 6 times in the Stanley Cup playoffs, and five times in the first round. Over that time period, only twice have both Philly and Buffalo had made the playoffs and not faced each other (last year and 1999).
They met in ’95 (#2 Philly defeated #7 Buffalo in five), ’97 (#3 Philly defeated #2 Buffalo in five), ’98 (#6 Buffalo defeated #3 Philly in five); 2000 (#1 Philly defeated #8 Buffalo in five); 2001 (#5 Buffalo defeated #4 Philly in six); and 2006 (#4 Buffalo defeated #5 Philly). The rivalry may have gotten old at this point, but it should still be a good one to watch.
BUF looks real dangerous to me. While the Rags are not a cakewalk, I’m way more pleased to have them than BUF.
Patron saint of quality footwear.
I think Buffalo wins that series in 6, so get ready, because if we win 1st round…
by Berube Doobie Doo on Apr 12, 2011 11:28 AM EDT up reply actions
What is the latest on Pronger? Because I think Philly wins if he gets on the ice
"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."
Upthread, RAL notes that Briere is quoted somewhere as saying he’ll be back for Rd 1, but perhaps miss Game 1, IIRC?
Patron saint of quality footwear.
Apparently on the radio…via BSH.
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 Apr 12, 2011 1:03 PM EDT up reply actions
From Puck Daddy's preview, is this the Caps' rally towel for tomorrow?
Don’t try to figure Sasha out. Just ride the wave.
I really hope not. The whole “winning” thing is a fad, and in 5 years people won’t even care. I mean, not that people in general care about rally towels given during a post-season, but I still have mine from last year’s playoffs.
by redpezrocket on Apr 12, 2011 12:02 PM EDT up reply actions
Years?
"My favorite fan base in D.C. Is United's. Period. The end." - Steinberg
by Bald Pollack on Apr 12, 2011 12:03 PM EDT up reply actions
He was reaching for “weeks” and missed.
by DrinkingPartner on Apr 12, 2011 12:05 PM EDT up reply actions
She. And yeah, weeks is probably more likely, though with Wikipedia now, who knows.
by redpezrocket on Apr 12, 2011 12:07 PM EDT up reply actions
That makes two of us, and even though I collect the things, and have them pinned to my wall in my room, I’m NOT taking it if that is the rally towel. Ugh!
Photography: I Rock the Red
Twitter: @IRockTheRed
E-mail: irockthered {at} gmail {dot} com
it would look GREAT in my kitchen. I really wish I could go tomorrow :(
Pledge Drive 2010-2011: SO KIDS CAN!! Help build a playground
Via NYR Twitter:
#NYR practice b4 traveling to DC today…lines: Prospal-Anismov-Gaborik, Dubinsky-Stepan-Fedotenko, Wolski-Boyle-Prust, and Drury-Christensen-Avery with Zuccarello mixing in…Torts has yet to say who will be healthy scratch tomorrow
You perhaps knew me better as "Your Nation's Capital." Same great commentary, now with 100% more transparency!
I hope he doesn’t deprive us of Avery-Erskine, round 2.
by Berube Doobie Doo on Apr 12, 2011 11:38 AM EDT up reply actions
I don’t mean a fight, per se… Just the back-and-forth, the super-pest-baiting that Erskine seems to be so good at.
by Berube Doobie Doo on Apr 12, 2011 11:55 AM EDT up reply actions
“Mr. Avery, do not touch the baby goalies.”
Pledge Drive 2010-2011: SO KIDS CAN!! Help build a playground
Though I’d love to see Holtby’s reaction.
by HockeyGoalie29 on Apr 12, 2011 1:29 PM EDT up reply actions
Avery vs. Holtby is NYR bringing a knife to a gunfight.
Boss: "How's that task coming?" Alz: "Eh, it's trending Sasha." Boss: "What?" Alz: "..."
by Alz Well That Ends Well on Apr 12, 2011 1:30 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
Who is the bottom pair going to be? Girardi/Staal, Rookies, … McCabe and Gilroy/MDZ/Eminger? Any clue who has the inside track on 6D? I wouldn’t mind any of those pairs, really. McCabe and MDZ would be pretty hilarious in their own end, but a concern in our end. Gilroy and Eminger don’t do much for me one way or another.
First Round Exit! (Clap Clap ClapClapClap) First Round Exit!
I suspect Eminger is going to be one of the bottom pair, and McCabe will be the other one?
I think Del Zotto is out.
Patron saint of quality footwear.
Out with injury or out with lack of talent?
First Round Exit! (Clap Clap ClapClapClap) First Round Exit!
Back in…Hartford, is it? I can’t remember where I read it, but I recall he played poorly, showed maturity issues, and got into Torts’ doghouse. Whether it’s a talent deficit or something else I don’t know, though. He’s healthy, though, I think; could be called up as an emergency replacement.
Patron saint of quality footwear.
I think I do remember him being sent down, just assumed he came back up.
Related, good thing they have Cam Fowler to provide some puck moving depth. Wait, what?
First Round Exit! (Clap Clap ClapClapClap) First Round Exit!
I’ve only seen Fowler a couple of times, but he hasn’t impressed me. Of course, he’s in the big leagues, which is a hell of a lot more than you can say about Dylan McIlwhatever.
Patron saint of quality footwear.
I’ll go to bat for Fowler forever. He’s definitely trailed off but he’s an 18 year old (maybe 19 now) playing the toughest position in the NHL. He’s not a great NHL player now, but he will be pretty damn soon. Dylan didn’t even get invited to Team Canada’s summer camp. 20 D got invited, he wasn’t one of them. Rags will regret that pick. No doubt in my mind.
First Round Exit! (Clap Clap ClapClapClap) First Round Exit!
*******
My opinion of Fowler is formulated off of precisely one play, so take it for what it’s worth (zero).
On the play in question, the 7-6 Caps win, on the GWG he backed away from contact along the boards and waved his stick at the puck, which allowed the Caps player to make an uncontested pass into the slot. Really soft play.
Here’s a screen shot:
But, hell, it’s one play in a season. So I’m open to the possibility that he’s a lot better than he showed here.
Patron saint of quality footwear.
My opinion is based off of him winning Gold for Team USA, and being a horse while he did it. He was matched against God’s gift to hockey (v.2010), Taylor Hall, and shut his ass down.
He’s a small guy and not physical, so I could buy a small play, but that screen cap also looks like he may have tried to snag the puck and back away from pressure. Miss the puck, you’re toast.
He obviously has a ways to go, but there are too many signs that make me think he’s going to be great. The most recent one is just the fact that he stayed in the NHL all year. Randy Carlyle has a reputation for hating rookies, especially rookie D, and does not like to keep them on the team. That he kept Fowler speaks volumes, to me.
First Round Exit! (Clap Clap ClapClapClap) First Round Exit!
Definitely tried to corral the puck and jump back away from contact. You know what it looks like, Flash did it 50 times a game.
Anyway, I’m not invested in the position, and you know way more about him than I do, so the odds of your opinion being right are way better.
Patron saint of quality footwear.
I’m going to admit to not having watched much Cam Fowler this year, and while you may not have either, I’ll put my question here anyway:
He’s 18 or 19, so I know he can’t be too strong. Am I right in assuming that his biggest weakness right now is handling bigger, more established forwards, and that if there’s an extremely physical/aggressive forecheck he’ll have problems?
"Nothing." - Tuukka Rask, after being asked what he saw on Shea Weber's game winner in overtime.
by Chris Burton on Apr 12, 2011 1:38 PM EDT up reply actions
Should clarify that I think he’s going to be excellent. Just wondering as far as the ANA/NSH series goes.
"Nothing." - Tuukka Rask, after being asked what he saw on Shea Weber's game winner in overtime.
by Chris Burton on Apr 12, 2011 1:39 PM EDT up reply actions
You are right to wonder. He’ll be a good one eventually, however right now he’s not going to be shutting anyone down.
The Artist Formerly Known as CP2Devil.
Associate Editor at Five For Howling.
Yeah. I think at home Trotz will put Fisher and Hornqvist out against Fowler/Brookbank when possible, which would theoretically be in Nashville’s favor.
"Nothing." - Tuukka Rask, after being asked what he saw on Shea Weber's game winner in overtime.
by Chris Burton on Apr 12, 2011 1:49 PM EDT up reply actions
Yeah, that was the knock on him even in the draft. He was physically immature, he still is. That will change. He’s a phenomenal skater and has great puck skills. That’s what’s going to keep him in the league.
For this series, yeah hit him through the wall if you catch him.
First Round Exit! (Clap Clap ClapClapClap) First Round Exit!
Right, I think he’s going to be fantastic and not someone I want to play against often, but for the here and now I think his lack of strength can be exploited big-time.
"Nothing." - Tuukka Rask, after being asked what he saw on Shea Weber's game winner in overtime.
by Chris Burton on Apr 12, 2011 1:58 PM EDT up reply actions
Yeah, and given how many minutes he’s logged I’d bet he’s wearing down (worn down?). Haven’t seen ANA since that barn-burner with the Caps I don’t think, so can’t really say.
First Round Exit! (Clap Clap ClapClapClap) First Round Exit!
I’d be interested to see how much Carlyle’s protected him, particularly since the acquisition of Beauchemin.
"Nothing." - Tuukka Rask, after being asked what he saw on Shea Weber's game winner in overtime.
by Chris Burton on Apr 12, 2011 2:03 PM EDT up reply actions
The last couple of Rangers games I saw, Eminger looked completely out of synch. When health allows it, Tortorella plays him under 10 minutes a game.
Whoever the bottom pair for the Rags is, they’ll have to get pretty limited and extremely protected minutes.
Staal and Girardi probably get 30 a game, and I imagine the second pair gets 20. The Flyers rode that strategy all the way to the SCF last year, where it came back and bit them on the ass, but it’s not a problem in Round 1. Assuming no unfortunate injury developments, of course.
Which leads to the observation that the Caps would be well served to soften up the top pair as often as they can in the early going.
Patron saint of quality footwear.
The thing in the Flyers favor is that Pronger/Timmonen/Carle/Coburn are all well-schooled vets with tons of playoff experience. You can’t really say the same for the top 4 of the Rangers. I like Staal and Girardi a lot, but they’re young (for NHL defensemen), as are Sauer and Gilroy and others.
I agree. Sauer and McDonagh have done a nice job, but they’re young and the playoffs are a crucible…we’ll see how they respond.
The third pair, any way you cut it, is a problem.
Staal will do his thing, I imagine. Girardi I’m less enamored of, but he’s had a nice year.
Patron saint of quality footwear.
If I’m BB, I want to put 8 – 19 – 22 and 27 – 74 on the ice against Gabo’s line as much as possible. They’re a mess defensively, which the AO and Co ought to be able to exploit.
Gabo and Prospal also get extreme OZone starts, which Baxter can handle; it also means that MarJo can get the OZone starts he needs for protection.
Torts no doubt wants the second line on against 8 – 19 – 22, and if he has to pull his top line off during an OZone chance, so much the better.
Patron saint of quality footwear.
Mixing up tough minutes and soft minutes guys there, it seems (except for the Boyle line).
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 Apr 12, 2011 1:06 PM EDT up reply actions
I would expect the Boyle line is going to be their go-to shutdown matchup, and they’ll try to get them on against AO’s line every chance they can.
Patron saint of quality footwear.
I wouldn’t mind that at all, really. For the Caps’ sake, I’m only worried if Dubinsky goes against AO, and playing on Stepan’s line I doubt Torts would risk putting out Dubi vs AO.
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 Apr 12, 2011 1:41 PM EDT up reply actions
Sorry Penguin
"The longer I delay myself getting to the real world, the better." - Mike Knuble
by Chaz-Capapalooza on Apr 12, 2011 11:45 AM EDT reply actions 6 recs
Would have been funnier if whacking a Penguin hadn’t already been done in a commercial.
Don’t try to figure Sasha out. Just ride the wave.
It feels like the DC media are trying to make the Penguins out to be the Soviet Union and we’re the U.S. Or we’re the Soviet Union and they’re the U.S. Wait…Or, Ovechkin’s Bush and Crosby’s Obama Osama…I’m so confused.
"The longer I delay myself getting to the real world, the better." - Mike Knuble
by Chaz-Capapalooza on Apr 12, 2011 11:55 AM EDT up reply actions
Can it really be done too much?
Aim for the head baby Jesus
by Doncosmic on Apr 12, 2011 11:55 AM EDT up reply actions 2 recs
For a team we wouldn’t see until Round 2? Yep, IMHO.
"My favorite fan base in D.C. Is United's. Period. The end." - Steinberg
by Bald Pollack on Apr 12, 2011 11:59 AM EDT up reply actions
I doubt “potential matchup scheduling” factors into commercial plans. I’m with Doncosmic, it never gets old.
The keyboard is mightier.
Good on you then, we’ll agree to disagree.
"My favorite fan base in D.C. Is United's. Period. The end." - Steinberg
by Bald Pollack on Apr 12, 2011 12:03 PM EDT up reply actions
This team also has a crapton of history with the Pens, going back a long time. I hated them even as a kid.
Aim for the head baby Jesus
Personal preference I suppose, I hated/still hate the Flyers more than them.
"My favorite fan base in D.C. Is United's. Period. The end." - Steinberg
by Bald Pollack on Apr 12, 2011 12:04 PM EDT up reply actions
I used to until I started going to every single pens/flyers game and the Pitt fans are soooooooo much more low class/hat sideways/neck tattooed.
And I’ll always have a begrudging respect for that city because there is no city that supports their sports teams like they do.
When the Flyers were last in the league 4 or 5 years ago, they were first in attendance. But yes, I hate the Flyers. Hate all old Patrick Division Rivals but Pittsburgh is so far out in front, they’re lapping the other teams.
I can resist anything, except temptation.
And I’ll always have a begrudging respect for that city because there is no city that supports their sports teams like they do.
They are averaging significantly fewer people in the stands than the Wizards, and we know the Wizards suck.
Aim for the head baby Jesus
Are they really? And they’re going to be in the playoffs.
Should have just stuck to football and hockey. They love the Phils too, but not like the first too, and the phils are winning. They’ve not been in love with BB in a long time.
I can resist anything, except temptation.
…heading out the door to go sign up for Capital One services.
by Berube Doobie Doo on Apr 12, 2011 12:26 PM EDT up reply actions
Is that before or after you go see Hangover 2?
"My favorite fan base in D.C. Is United's. Period. The end." - Steinberg
by Bald Pollack on Apr 12, 2011 1:25 PM EDT up reply actions
A king’s ransom for every dead penguin delivered to my screen!
by Berube Doobie Doo on Apr 12, 2011 1:42 PM EDT up reply actions
Were I, heaven forbid, a Pens fan, all these gratuitous Penguin insertions (this is the third I recall off the top of my head) would only feed my belief that the Caps have Pens blinders on and need to get over it and do some playoff damage. I know, it’s the media feeding it, not the players or management, but that subtlety would be ignored. Again, were I a Pens fan.
名誉と大きな脳物質のステッケルミーエルモ男！
Who cares what Pens fans think anyway?
"The longer I delay myself getting to the real world, the better." - Mike Knuble
by Chaz-Capapalooza on Apr 12, 2011 12:05 PM EDT up reply actions
It’s not even a Pens fan thing. “Look, I’m a Caps sponsor, I’ll get oodles of people to buy my wares if I insert a hurt Penguin into it!” Hackneyed.
"My favorite fan base in D.C. Is United's. Period. The end." - Steinberg
by Bald Pollack on Apr 12, 2011 12:08 PM EDT up reply actions
It’s definitely being sold to us by the media regardless of the history between the two teams. I’m actually really surprised they don’t have more anti-Cowboys commercials more than anything.
"The longer I delay myself getting to the real world, the better." - Mike Knuble
by Chaz-Capapalooza on Apr 12, 2011 12:12 PM EDT up reply actions
The Pens are definitely our biggest rival. We’re not necessarily theirs, is all.
by DrinkingPartner on Apr 12, 2011 12:07 PM EDT up reply actions
I know many, many Pens fans. They all say they would rather see the Caps win the Cup than the Flyers. That being said, they still were disgusted at the thought of us winning a Cup.
"The longer I delay myself getting to the real world, the better." - Mike Knuble
by Chaz-Capapalooza on Apr 12, 2011 12:09 PM EDT up reply actions
That's clearly the Mall. How hard was it to find a Ranger to hit with a puck?
Atta dinnin stick a who!
by Gould Old Days on Apr 12, 2011 2:45 PM EDT up reply actions
Yea, those guys are always telling people they can't drink while playing softball.
Aim for the head baby Jesus
00
Umpire:
Okay, let’s go over the ground rules.
You can’t leave first until you chug a beer.
Any man scoring has to chug a beer.
You have to chug a beer at the top of all odd-numbered innings.
Oh, and the fourth inning is the beer inning.
Chief Wiggum: Hey, we know how to play softball.
And he cocked both his pistols and he spit in the dirt; And he walked out into the street
Box Seats Blog
Twitter
Ron and Fez 11 to 3
by YvonLabresMoustache on Apr 12, 2011 2:55 PM EDT up reply actions 3 recs
And now I’m watching “Homer at the Bat”.
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 Apr 12, 2011 3:04 PM EDT up reply actions
I’ll be singing that song all afternoon myself…
Well Mr. Burns had done it…the Power Plant had won it…with Roger Clemens clucking all the while….
And he cocked both his pistols and he spit in the dirt; And he walked out into the street
Box Seats Blog
Twitter
Ron and Fez 11 to 3
by YvonLabresMoustache on Apr 12, 2011 3:17 PM EDT up reply actions
We play a much simpler variant.
1: Baserunners must always have a canned beverage in their hand, starting from the moment they drop the bat. (We provide Safeway’s horrid Diet Dr. Skipper as a variant for those who don’t want to drink bad beer.)
2: You can score a run in one of two ways. Either you cross the plate or you drink a canned beverage. At the end of the day, we add up the normal runs and the cans in each team’s recycling bin to get the final score.
Any variant of this would be such a bad idea for hockey, when folks have knives on their feet. Broomball, on the other hand…
Atta dinnin stick a who!
by Gould Old Days on Apr 12, 2011 3:32 PM EDT up reply actions
Falling on ice hurts, falling into the boards is worse. You’re just as much danger to yourself as you are to others when drunk on the ice.
First Round Exit! (Clap Clap ClapClapClap) First Round Exit!
I’m amazed that hockey players can get out of bed in the morning, let alone move around strenuously, with the beating they take. Even in full pads, it hurts to slam into the boards.
Patron saint of quality footwear.
Non-seamless glass is like falling onto a mattress if you play it right.
by DrinkingPartner on Apr 12, 2011 3:39 PM EDT up reply actions
From Whyno:
Michal Neuvirth says it feels good to be Caps No.1 goalie. Yep, he’s in for Game 1
"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."
Let’s hope he’s in for game 2.
by Berube Doobie Doo on Apr 12, 2011 11:47 AM EDT up reply actions 4 recs
So, I’ve been thinking about this series, particularly Game 1 (which have been a stumbling block and a rock of oppression for the Caps during the BB era).
I think, and mind you this is just thinking, that the Caps have learned to be a methodical, system-oriented team. Those teams are tough to play against. If the Caps can come out, get pucks deep, grind, hit and cycle, they’ll be a tough, tough out for the Rags.
Patron saint of quality footwear.
With AO and Backs actually playing more or less like themselves of old, too, Arnott kicking Semin’s ass, Carlznerson, and a healthy Green (we hope), we have a lot to be hopeful for.
by DrinkingPartner on Apr 12, 2011 12:04 PM EDT up reply actions
Well, I don’t think prior editions of the Caps left their opponents thinking, “wow, that was a tough game” too often. Even when they got beat 6 – 1 or something.
This team, I hope, has the capacity to do that. I also think/hope they have the intention to do it.
Patron saint of quality footwear.
I was just adding onto yours as things to be hopeful about :-P.
by DrinkingPartner on Apr 12, 2011 12:10 PM EDT up reply actions
Indeed.
I’m definitely in the camp that believes Varly is the superior player, but at this point nothing matters besides the ‘W.’ I hope Neuvy is rock-solid
"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."
Neuxactly!
"The longer I delay myself getting to the real world, the better." - Mike Knuble
by Chaz-Capapalooza on Apr 12, 2011 11:57 AM EDT up reply actions
Varly has better numbers on the season, however, if you look at the numbers since the change in philosophy, they are almost identical. Neuvy played a lot more before they went to the more defensively sound system.
However, it is indisputable that, for whatever reason, the team’s offense plays better in front of Neuvirth
I don't know, maybe it was the roses...
Disagree? The numbers don’t lie… the Caps goals-per-game average for Neuvirth is considerably higher than for Varly. Thus, the Caps offense has played better in front of Neuvirth. Varly’s record would be better if he had gotten the same goal support that Neuvirth has, but it has been a season-long situation, not just a few games. Dunno if the team feels more confident in front of Neuvirth, or what the reason may be.
And Neuvirth did play a lot of the games prior to the defensive change, due to Varly being out for the first month. Though I don’t know what % of his starts came before the change, and what % of Varly’s. Since the defensive change, their numbers have been nearly identical. I think someone posted here on Japer’s somewhere a comparison of them since the end of November, and the numbers were almost indistinguishable from each other, except for W-L, because Neuvirth has gotten a lot more goal support.
I don't know, maybe it was the roses...
What you’re missing is that Seth said this was because of the timeframe when the goalies played. Neuvy played a lot during the winning streak, and early in the season, because Varly was injured during those time frames. And the whole team happened to be playing well at those times, and o Neuvy got lost of goal support.
When Neuvy was injured, the team was having a rough time, including the long losing streak. Varly got those starts.
You can’t just blame the entire team’s offensive performance on the goalie.
by Berube Doobie Doo on Apr 12, 2011 1:09 PM EDT up reply actions
I didn’t… I said “For whatever reason…”. I was just stating the fact that the Caps had scored more goals per game for Neuvy "for whatever reason’.
I don't know, maybe it was the roses...
And I think what other people get caught on, and is a big deal here more than many other places, is that correlation does not indicate causation. So yes, it happened this year that Neuvy was the benefit of better run support because of the time period in which he played and Varly did not, but those are not reproducible events and should not be relied on in determining future decisions.
It would be like saying I was in attendance for all of the Caps playoff victories and did not attend any losses. It may be true (it’s not) but it has no measurable impact on future playoff games.
Although if anyone wants to give up their seats to me, we can find out.
Boss: "How's that task coming?" Alz: "Eh, it's trending Sasha." Boss: "What?" Alz: "..."
by Alz Well That Ends Well on Apr 12, 2011 1:28 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
I found that out the hard way last year. The Caps had an undefeated record in the 9 games I had attended since the lockout, including 3 playoff wins. I figured that I needed to sack up and attend game 7 vs MTL, just to make sure we won. Oops…
by Berube Doobie Doo on Apr 12, 2011 1:44 PM EDT up reply actions
I went to game 7 because I figured that staying home curled up in the fetal position was chickening out. I had to see it though to the bitter end.
Pledge Drive 2010-2011: SO KIDS CAN!! Help build a playground
Is fetal positioning at VC more or less frowned upon than leaning? Just for future reference.
名誉と大きな脳物質のステッケルミーエルモ男！
if we’re all doing the fetal position (ie, it’s Game 7….) it’s okay. Fetal position is not approved for Game 5, however.
Pledge Drive 2010-2011: SO KIDS CAN!! Help build a playground
I can feel my Game 7 Bowel Syndrome starting to flare up already.
by Berube Doobie Doo on Apr 12, 2011 1:48 PM EDT up reply actions
my annual spring ulcer is coming on strong, thanks to bruce’s decision to use 5 forwards on the PP. “Defense? We don’t need no stinkin’ defense!”
Pledge Drive 2010-2011: SO KIDS CAN!! Help build a playground
pounds heart with fist in attempt to restart it
by Berube Doobie Doo on Apr 12, 2011 2:00 PM EDT up reply actions
Not going to lie, as much as it enhances the chance of a shortie going the other way…at this point I’ll take it if it comes with the chance to get the power play going.
The Caps have got to be able to score on the extra man – they’re not going to get a ton of chances on the PP, they have to make ’em count, and if it means they score 6 PPGs in the series and let in 1 or 2 SHGs, so be it.
Sunrise, sunset, swiftly fly the years. One season following another, laden with happiness and tears.
Nothing is indisputable. This is the internet.
It is our most modestly priced receptacle.
by Rainbow, Kitty, Beer on Apr 12, 2011 12:55 PM EDT up reply actions
As do I. While I believe Varly is the better goalie, I’m actually very intrigued to find out if Nuevy can replicate his AHL playoff success at the NHL level. Back to back shutouts to close out a series would be fantastic, though hopefully not in games 6 and 7.
by HockeyGoalie29 on Apr 12, 2011 1:42 PM EDT up reply actions
Let’s hope he’s in forgameperiod 2.
FTFY
Check out a new social network, Hockey Connect, a place for coaches, players, family and fans to share strategies and experiences.
SykKerst:
Caps BB says for the first PP they’ll stick with the five forwards on the PP, he’ll see how it goes from there
"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."
Why not? So far Laich has been killing it from the point.
"The longer I delay myself getting to the real world, the better." - Mike Knuble
by Chaz-Capapalooza on Apr 12, 2011 12:20 PM EDT up reply actions
So do we think that means our first-choice PP unit will be 8,19, 28, 44 and 21?
"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."
Yep, if they really are sticking with 5 forwards. Not sure why they would bench Green if he plays though.
"The longer I delay myself getting to the real world, the better." - Mike Knuble
by Chaz-Capapalooza on Apr 12, 2011 12:23 PM EDT up reply actions
He’ll be on the second PP unit, and they are doing it because the 5 forwards thing has been working.
Aim for the head baby Jesus
So does 8 stay on, or does BB rotate him off?
"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."
He’ll stay. Which I hate. I am positive that the Rags will get 2 or 3 SH chances due to AO being gassed at the point at around the 1:40 mark of a PP.
Patron saint of quality footwear.
At least we know he’ll backcheck since the only time he does it is when he fumbles on the PP.
"The longer I delay myself getting to the real world, the better." - Mike Knuble
by Chaz-Capapalooza on Apr 12, 2011 12:35 PM EDT up reply actions
What? Haha it’s true. All the other things AO does far outweigh his mishaps. I’m not hating on him, just sayin’ that the guy needs to be more careful with the puck when he’s on the blue line.
"The longer I delay myself getting to the real world, the better." - Mike Knuble
by Chaz-Capapalooza on Apr 12, 2011 12:42 PM EDT up reply actions
It’s been working?
In the last 20 games of the season (arbitrary, round number, cut off), the Caps were 8-for-60. A PP clicking at 13.3% is not one I would say is “working”. Or at least not working well.
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 Apr 12, 2011 1:23 PM EDT up reply actions
Hold on, wrong numbers added.
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 Apr 12, 2011 1:24 PM EDT up reply actions
Assuming, I was looking at the right numbers this time, 11-for-50. 22%, and significantly better.
Point conceded.
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 Apr 12, 2011 1:26 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
What would you say to “It seems like he actually might be getting better at it.”
I can resist anything, except temptation.
NYR: 11 SHGF, and AO on point = 2 min shifts.
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 Apr 12, 2011 1:08 PM EDT up reply actions
They did lead the league on the PP with him on the point last year, and they have been doing well with him their lately.
Aim for the head baby Jesus
by Doncosmic on Apr 12, 2011 12:23 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
I don’t remember it that way – though I don’t remember much more than 3 or 4 days ago. I always remember him being in the circles, like where Stamkos plays.
I can resist anything, except temptation.
sure but the majority of his goals on that unit still came from him inside the circle. Move 44 to the point, and play AO near the net or on the half wall.
I would actually like to see AO start the PP on the point, and switch with Arnott 20 seconds or so in. I could see a defending team getting their coverages screwed up and leaving someone wide open with two guys totally changing roles part way through the PP.
I dunno that it would work a bunch of times, but I think it could steal a goal here or there.
I am a hockey fan first, and a Caps fan second.
by iwearstripes on Apr 12, 2011 2:05 PM EDT up reply actions
I would like to see players switch positions constantly throughout the entire PP.
First Round Exit! (Clap Clap ClapClapClap) First Round Exit!
by Rob Parker on Apr 12, 2011 2:07 PM EDT up reply actions 7 recs
Baby steps.
I am a hockey fan first, and a Caps fan second.
by iwearstripes on Apr 12, 2011 2:19 PM EDT up reply actions
if bruce’s plan is to give us a heart attack before the game has even been played, consider it a success.
Pledge Drive 2010-2011: SO KIDS CAN!! Help build a playground
From the ESPN article on key factors in the series:
If Marc Staal and Dan Girardi can again keep him under wraps, the media will start talking, Ovechkin could start pressing and the pressure will start rising on a team that absolutely, positively cannot lose in the first round without major repercussions. More on that later.
The scuttlebutt around the league is that it’s a Cup or a pink slip for Boudreau, so if his team should again falter in the first round he may not make it to the postgame press conference podium.
I think some discussion on the expected repercussions of a first-round exit would be a good idea to talk about at the moment, before our emotions run rampant in the playoffs. What are realistic expectations of a first-round or even second-round exit? Does it matter in what sort of manner they are excused or simply that it happened? I don’t want to sound like a BB hater here, but I’m pretty sure he gets shown the door if we lose in the first round. I think the context will depend if we are excused in the second round, depending on the length of the series and/or effort put forth. As for further personnel changes, I think some players might be let go or tried to find new homes for, but I think who those players are will be determined in the playoffs. Just a good topic for conversation, I feel, at the current time. Thoughts?
"I don't like hockey. I'm just good at it." - Brett Hull
"They say you're not a coach in the league till you've been fired. I must be getting pretty good." - Terry Simpson
The scuttlebutt around the league is that it’s a Cup or a pink slip for Boudreau
I don’t think so. It might be ECF or pink slip, but I can see them giving him one more year unless we bow out in the first round again.
"The longer I delay myself getting to the real world, the better." - Mike Knuble
by Chaz-Capapalooza on Apr 12, 2011 12:26 PM EDT up reply actions
First round exit, Boudreau is gone. No ifs, ands or buts. Expectations are too high, again, for Boudreau to flub it.
Realistically, anything less than conference finals has to be considered a disappointment but I doubt he’d be canned for anything other than a first round exit.
Many a night from yonder ivied casement, ere I went to rest,
Did I look on great Orion sloping slowly to the West.
I think context still matters. Bad luck can strike at any moment, including the first round.
The midseason turnaround this year has earned BB plenty of capital.
The keyboard is mightier.
Not to mention achieving the best defensive numbers in franchise history. If they are still in a transition game and they are playing this well, we could be deadly with 82 more games under our belt. Only way I fire BB is if he loses to the Rags.
"The longer I delay myself getting to the real world, the better." - Mike Knuble
by Chaz-Capapalooza on Apr 12, 2011 12:31 PM EDT up reply actions
A first round exit doesn’t guarantee that BB gets fired, in my view. It will depend on HOW that first round exit occurs.
The keyboard is mightier.
Yeah. If it’s another seeming inability to adjust during the course of a game or series, then he’s gone before the locker room closes. If they suffer injuries or the Rags play out of their fuckin’ minds, then we’ll see.
by DrinkingPartner on Apr 12, 2011 12:40 PM EDT up reply actions
If they suffer injuries orthe RagsLundqvist plays out of his fuckin’ mind, then we’ll see.
"The longer I delay myself getting to the real world, the better." - Mike Knuble
by Chaz-Capapalooza on Apr 12, 2011 12:44 PM EDT up reply actions
If Lundqvist Halak’s the Caps, I am not sure B would be fired.
In my dreams, I am a 6 year old boy at the Putt Putt Golf Course, and I get to the hole with the windmill, and every time I putt it either misses the tunnel, or the windmill kicks my ball back. I am getting so frustrated that I start to cry. And I look up, and the windmill has Jaraslav Halak’s face, and he’s laughing at me.
I can’t imagine what Semin’s dreams were like.
I don't know, maybe it was the roses...
by Jalabar on Apr 12, 2011 12:47 PM EDT up reply actions 2 recs
Bad luck or not, another exit like this puts the stink on the franchise. You watch the Masters last weekend? As much of a collapse as McIlroy had, Norman was the name on everyone’s lips.
Many a night from yonder ivied casement, ere I went to rest,
Did I look on great Orion sloping slowly to the West.
Coaches don’t get fired because there is “a stink” on the franchise, whatever that means. They get fired if they are perceived to be unable to coach properly.
A lot can happen, and a lot of bad coaching decisions would have to cause the first round exit for BB to erase the capital he is built this year.
The keyboard is mightier.
I said another exit puts the stink, not Boudreau puts the stink on it. His inability to beat the Rangers will cost him his job.
Many a night from yonder ivied casement, ere I went to rest,
Did I look on great Orion sloping slowly to the West.
inability to beat the Rangers
I agree that would cost him his job.
I don’t agree that we can sit here today and say that if the Caps lose to the Rangers, it was because BB was unable. That’s all I’m saying. It doesn’t mean there is a ton of pressure, and it doesn’t mean BB is set up to succeed and it would be a collossal disappointment. A LOT of bad luck would have to strike for this not to fall on BB. But we’ll have to see.
The keyboard is mightier.
He’s beaten the Rags before with their same torrential coach and with an even worse team, comparatively. He can certainly do it, again.
by DrinkingPartner on Apr 12, 2011 12:51 PM EDT up reply actions
I’m not saying they’re going to lose — I think, in my mind, worst case scenario is that it takes till game 6 till the Caps take the series. However, if the Caps don’t beat the Rangers and Ovechkin isn’t out with some major injury Boudreau is gone.
Many a night from yonder ivied casement, ere I went to rest,
Did I look on great Orion sloping slowly to the West.
Actually, let me put it to you this way. Despite all the talk, the Capitals are a business. They have enough talent now that damn near any coach can get them into the playoffs. They need the revenue from the postseason at some point, and not just the 4 and done home games.
Many a night from yonder ivied casement, ere I went to rest,
Did I look on great Orion sloping slowly to the West.
First round loss = BB is fired
ECFinals or better = BB sticks around
Second round loss? That’s when it gets dicey. If the Caps lose in the second round the “how” will become more important.
"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."
1st Rd Exit – Gone
2nd Rd Exit – Possibly gone but I’d say better than 50/50 he stays unless there was a clear decision that he got wrong (i.e. [Starting goalie] has a bad game, switches to [Other goalie] and he’s doing awesome, then switches back to [First goalie] for an elimination game and they lose)
3rd Rd Exit – He’s back 100%
4th Rd Exit – He’s extended for 5 years
SC – There is a Boudreau statue built at 7th & F.
Boss: "How's that task coming?" Alz: "Eh, it's trending Sasha." Boss: "What?" Alz: "..."
by Alz Well That Ends Well on Apr 12, 2011 12:29 PM EDT up reply actions 3 recs
That would be a hilarious statue. Can we paint some food on his face too?
"The longer I delay myself getting to the real world, the better." - Mike Knuble
by Chaz-Capapalooza on Apr 12, 2011 12:34 PM EDT up reply actions
I can see the statue now, the cup under one arm and a tub of Häagen-Dazs under the other. Perhaps just the slightest of BBQ sauce on the cheek.
"I don't like hockey. I'm just good at it." - Brett Hull
"They say you're not a coach in the league till you've been fired. I must be getting pretty good." - Terry Simpson
Not gonna lie, it’s friggin’ hot out and now I want some ice cream.
"The longer I delay myself getting to the real world, the better." - Mike Knuble
by Chaz-Capapalooza on Apr 12, 2011 12:38 PM EDT up reply actions
I almost made the easy joke
SC – There is a Boudreau statue built at 7th & F.
…and ends at 7th & G.
Boss: "How's that task coming?" Alz: "Eh, it's trending Sasha." Boss: "What?" Alz: "..."
by Alz Well That Ends Well on Apr 12, 2011 12:44 PM EDT up reply actions 3 recs
OT, but it’s free cone day at Ben and Jerry’s. /OT
by redpezrocket on Apr 12, 2011 1:39 PM EDT up reply actions
This is really for the group (and not directed exclusively at you), but can we limit the “OT, but let me say it anyway” approach of posting? I’m sure I’m guilty of this myself and can only hope to put myself to the same high standards of the commentariat.
"My favorite fan base in D.C. Is United's. Period. The end." - Steinberg
by Bald Pollack on Apr 12, 2011 1:44 PM EDT up reply actions 3 recs
Realistically, wouldn’t he be eating the Haagen-Dazs from The Cup?
I am a hockey fan first, and a Caps fan second.
by iwearstripes on Apr 12, 2011 2:09 PM EDT up reply actions
With all the talk about Capital One, think of the endorsement possibilities for Haagen Dazs. Him eating out of the cup? Lock.
Boss: "How's that task coming?" Alz: "Eh, it's trending Sasha." Boss: "What?" Alz: "..."
by Alz Well That Ends Well on Apr 12, 2011 2:11 PM EDT up reply actions
“You’ve just won the Stanley Cup! What are you going to do now?”
BB: “I’m going to Oakland!”
“What the hell is in Oakland?”
BB: “Heaven….. AKA Häagen-Dazs headquarters.”
"I don't like hockey. I'm just good at it." - Brett Hull
"They say you're not a coach in the league till you've been fired. I must be getting pretty good." - Terry Simpson
I’m just not sure that bumbling happy-go-lucky when he’s not spewing f-bombs Bruce is quite the spokesman elitist, vaguely European Haagen Dazs is looking for.
But it would make for one hell of an endorsement.
Pledge Drive 2010-2011: SO KIDS CAN!! Help build a playground
Think I agree with you on most points, except maybe not a Finals exit. You think they give a full 5-year extension?
"I don't like hockey. I'm just good at it." - Brett Hull
"They say you're not a coach in the league till you've been fired. I must be getting pretty good." - Terry Simpson
Yeah, really only a Cup win gives him that long-term security. And even then, it’s hard to imagine an NHL coach being completely immune.
by Berube Doobie Doo on Apr 12, 2011 12:37 PM EDT up reply actions
It would be the best season in franchise history (assuming they don’t get swept in the Finals) on the heels of three straight 100-point seasons and the best first 300 games by any coach in NHL history.
You could certainly make the case he’d have earned it.
"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."
It was kind of sarcastic, but I see a SCF appearance as getting as close as he can without winning it (obviously) and the reinforcement the management and fanbase needs to cement him in. Have any players complained about him? Aside from the occasional “I just work here”, the players really seem to love him and be willing to go through walls for him. If he gets to the finals, it means he is capable of doing the cerebral work (adjusting within series, etc.) to complement the player management aspect. And with that, I think you have the makings of a franchise coach. I don’t actually think it would guarantee him a 5 year extension, but I honestly wouldn’t be surprised or upset to see that.
Boss: "How's that task coming?" Alz: "Eh, it's trending Sasha." Boss: "What?" Alz: "..."
by Alz Well That Ends Well on Apr 12, 2011 12:46 PM EDT up reply actions
Also don’t forget the wholesale shift from run & gun, which he has said has always been his philosophy, to a defense-first patient style which usually has better playoff success (thanks, RJ). And they don’t just fake it, they execute it well. Least goals in franchise history after switching half-way through the season with personnel who match a run & gun and the team’s been built around that style for 3 years? That’s coaching. Obviously regular season success doesn’t stand on its own, and that’s why his playoff performance will make or break him.
Boss: "How's that task coming?" Alz: "Eh, it's trending Sasha." Boss: "What?" Alz: "..."
by Alz Well That Ends Well on Apr 12, 2011 12:49 PM EDT up reply actions
Mea culpa – I was one of the folks who had grown frustrated with a number of his coaching decisions and called for his head earlier this season. I’m happy that many of my concerns were alleviated and the team turned out better than I expected. If he fixes the PP and puts Semin on the PK more often I’ll build a statue by myself.
The Artist Formerly Known as CP2Devil.
Associate Editor at Five For Howling.
by Carl Putnam on Apr 12, 2011 1:07 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
I am with you there. I have no idea why Semin has gotten so little PK time recently. As others have noticed in the past, he seems to play better when he is given that responsibility.
Because for every two games he plays great on the PK, there’s another where he takes a hooking penalty in the neutral zone when we’re already down a man?
I am a hockey fan first, and a Caps fan second.
by iwearstripes on Apr 12, 2011 2:10 PM EDT up reply actions
Twice in a week earlier this year:
Nov 14th against ATL (ATL scored)
Nov 20th against the Flyers
Plus one more Mar 9th against Edmonton
I am a hockey fan first, and a Caps fan second.
by iwearstripes on Apr 13, 2011 2:41 AM EDT up reply actions
I’ve been one of the more vocal people against Boudreau. I still don’t like him, and I’ve gone on multiple times why I think that many of the improvements were overly attributed to Boudreau.
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 Apr 12, 2011 1:29 PM EDT up reply actions
I still don’t like the things I mentioned above, but the fact is I thought he was too stubborn to change his system and he did. I still think he could do a couple more things on the discipline end and make the two changes I mentioned above. All in all mu complaints list has narrowed to the point where I’m comfortable assuming he can continue to make adjustments when needed.
The Artist Formerly Known as CP2Devil.
Associate Editor at Five For Howling.
I was firmly in the BB Must Go camp, too. I’m suspending judgment for now. The reduction in GA and the uptick in PK efficiency is nice, but I want to see if it’s sustainable during the playoffs.
The team has consistently looked bad under BB in the playoffs. If they come out flat again in key situations, then I’m going to want him gone. But the record over the last 35 games has bought him a stay for the moment.
Patron saint of quality footwear.
Fair or not, you have to judge Bruce on his playoff performance at this point. He re-tooled the entire team to play playoff-style hockey. We won’t know if it worked until the season is over.
by Berube Doobie Doo on Apr 12, 2011 2:02 PM EDT up reply actions
Well, what I was referring to is that a lot of the changes didn’t happen until after the trade deadline with notable references to acquired veterans chiming in. It is telling in a bad way (as I’ve said before) that players (sorry, don’t have quotes, but I do seem to recall them) referenced Arnott or Hannan or Wideman etc before Boudreau when discussing changes. Now some of the improved play is players not being slotted into positions over their head, but a lot of the things I saw were things that were not reliant on skill. It was the attention to detail, and discipline, which Boudreau was never able to get the players to focus on.
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 Apr 12, 2011 2:02 PM EDT up reply actions
I think this idea has gotten play in a few places, and as a coach I don’t think relying on veteran leadership necessarily means the coach is failing. I will agree that there are instances where the coach has lost the room or has the room and isn’t saying the right things. But I also think that some players need the coach saying things, some need vets, and some need both.
Personally, as a coach I spend a lot of time early in the year stressing certain players who I think have the potential to be locker room leaders to see how they respond. I’m not saying these are the only ones who lead (and that’s a pleasant surprise), but you need to have a plan if, for whatever reason, hearing it from you isn’t working for player X (or you don’t know the right thing to say to player X).
Boss: "How's that task coming?" Alz: "Eh, it's trending Sasha." Boss: "What?" Alz: "..."
by Alz Well That Ends Well on Apr 12, 2011 2:08 PM EDT up reply actions
Now some of the improved play is players not being slotted into positions over their head, but a lot of the things I saw were things that were not reliant on skill. It was the attention to detail, and discipline, which Boudreau was never able to get the players to focus on.
Totally concur with your last sentence. Discipline has never been and never will be BB’s strong suit. If he can do the other stuff and the locker room can take care of the discipline I think they’ll be alright. Similar to teams with discipline heavy coaches with locker rooms full of guys who know how to take the pressure off.
The Artist Formerly Known as CP2Devil.
Associate Editor at Five For Howling.
Exactly. If the coach is the be all end all of instruction, eventually something gets tuned out. If strategy is from the coach, discipline comes from vets. Not exclusively for either, but that’s what each camp stresses. Think of Arnott or Knuble as the grizzled NCO who isn’t and officer but has been there, paid the price, and knows what the young ones have to do to make it.
Boss: "How's that task coming?" Alz: "Eh, it's trending Sasha." Boss: "What?" Alz: "..."
by Alz Well That Ends Well on Apr 12, 2011 2:13 PM EDT up reply actions
Plus, how exactly is Bruce supposed to say, “This is what you have to do to win a Cup,” when he’s played all of 141 NHL games? He knows the theory, Arnott, Knuble, Hannan know the execution.
Boss: "How's that task coming?" Alz: "Eh, it's trending Sasha." Boss: "What?" Alz: "..."
by Alz Well That Ends Well on Apr 12, 2011 2:14 PM EDT up reply actions
I have several issues with all the Boudreau love over the last half of the season:
1) “What took you so long?” Everyone who has watched the Caps for the last four years has said pretty much the same thing: “fun team to watch, but their style won’t work in the playoffs.” It turns out that R.J. Umberger was right; that style didn’t work in the playoffs. It only took four playoff series going to seven games and a 1-3 record in said series, plus an eight game losing streak and job security fears to get Boudreau to implement some kind of defensive systems. Stubborn doesn’t even begin to do it justice.
Folks here may remember the Fanpost I did on Boudreau’s implementation of the neutral-zone trap. For a long time, I wanted to do a similar post that attempted to explain the Caps’ defensive zone “system.” I couldn’t do it. Not because I couldn’t find footage or because I was lazy – it was just because I couldn’t discern any coherent system.
So, while I’m happy that the Caps finally have some sort of structure in the neutral and defensive zones, I really wish we hadn’t pissed away 08-09 and 09-10 in the process.
2) “Coach or Players/Chicken or Egg?” For all that Boudreau should get some credit for improving the team’s defense, a fair amount of credit (I’d say most of it) should go to George McPhee for restructuring the roster. Last year, this team had Shaone Morrisonn and Milan Jurcina playing regular defensive shifts. Those guys were so bad that they can’t even start regularly for Buffalo and the Islanders, respectively. In their place, the Caps have guys like Hannan, Wideman, Alzner and Carlson. Jose Theodore and his ~.905 Sv % and 2.8+ GAA has been replaced by Neuvy, Varly and Holtby. Tomas Fleischmann’s minutes have gone to more defensively responsible forwards such as Johansson, Laich and Arnott.
Put simply, if this team hadn’t improved defensively given the personnel upgrades, Boudreau probably should have been shown the door.
3) “Jason and the Argonotts.” The biggest indictment of Boudreau this year was Arnott’s response upon his arrival. His giant WTF?!?!? moment after his first game with the Caps happened approximately 2.5 months after Boudreau changed the system (if you take the 6-0 game against the Rangers as the point at which that happened). Arnott has played for Barry Trotz, Dave Tippett, Ken Hitchcock and Jacques Lemaire. It’s fair to say that he knows how well-coached teams are supposed to play. It’s also fair to say that he did not like what he saw upon his arrival. That, to me, is a big flashing red light signifying that either the Caps’ coaching staff didn’t pay attention to detail or, more likely, that they couldn’t motivate their players to pay attention to detail. Either way, it’s not good.
For all that folks are falling all over themselves to credit Boudreau for getting the Caps to play “a different brand of hockey,” I think we should recall that the Caps were still playing mediocre hockey as recently as the trade deadline (that 6-0 loss at home to the Rangers was particularly bad). It’s only after the trade deadline and the injection of Arnott, Sturm and Wideman that the team really took off. Moreover, just as the Caps were the victim of some bad luck during their December losing streak, they were also the beneficiaries of some good luck during the stretch run. Unless you think that all those one-goal games are a sign of a team that “really knows how to win the close ones.”
If Boudreau leads this team to the Cup, or even to a good showing in the Conference Finals, I’ll be happily surprised and I think he’ll probably stay as coach. If, however, Tortorella coaches circles around him and the Caps either flop in the first round or the series gets extended to seven games before the Caps bow out in the second round (a la 2009), then I think there will be a deserved change behind the bench.
Matt Hendricks is a honey badger.
by D'ohboy on Apr 12, 2011 2:13 PM EDT up reply actions 17 recs
I’m no regular at Caps practices (or in video sessions), but when I’ve gone BB certainly seemed focused on the details. The issue seemed to be the lack of accountability when guys didn’t stick to the game plan.
The Artist Formerly Known as CP2Devil.
Associate Editor at Five For Howling.
I hope you can see this, because I’m rec’ing it as hard as I can.
Man, you are on fire today. Willing to type the wall of text that I am not.
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 Apr 12, 2011 2:19 PM EDT up reply actions
Coming back with a vengeance huh? Rec’d.
"My favorite fan base in D.C. Is United's. Period. The end." - Steinberg
by Bald Pollack on Apr 12, 2011 2:30 PM EDT up reply actions
the mediocre hockey that the Caps were playing around trade deadline time was, I believe, largely attributable to ineffective offence. They were not allowing many goals. Their D played strong hockey. They were, for the most part, having 2-3 goal scored against them and still losing. I think the deadline additions added some offensive strength, intangible rigour, and drive to this team.
Unless you think that all those one-goal games are a sign of a team that "really knows how to win the close ones."
I honestly think that this had a whole lot to do with it. The Caps were able to take a 1-goal lead and shut the other team down from anywhere between 5-25 minutes in order to win. Yes, a good deal of it had to do with luck, in the sense that for the most part, the other teams were not lucky enough to get chances where the puck was going to inevitably end up in the net, but the Caps D was able to limit strong scoring chances and capitalise on their good fortune. Back then, a 2-goal lead was as good as a game in the bag.
This, unfortunately, has not been the case of late. The Caps are surrendering multiple goals in succession much more frequently than they were a few months ago. I think part of that has to do with a depleted defensive corps, part of it has to do with less drive to play hard hockey when the results of each game count less, and part of it may have to do with a trade-off for a re-invigorated offence. I think that the Caps are capable of addressing those concerns and tightening their defensive game in this series. Whether they will or not is yet to be determined.
by j762 on Apr 12, 2011 2:53 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
he Caps were able to take a 1-goal lead and shut the other team down from anywhere between 5-25 minutes in order to win
We saw this way back in the WC, They really put the clamps on Pitt in the 3rd and chewed up the clock.
Check out a new social network, Hockey Connect, a place for coaches, players, family and fans to share strategies and experiences.
Agree with all of this. A lot of the discipline problems fall at the feet of the team itself, and especially the team leadership, but it’s a lot more efficient to replace the coach who can’t keep them in line with one that can, than it is to majorly overhaul the roster.
It is our most modestly priced receptacle.
by Rainbow, Kitty, Beer on Apr 12, 2011 4:17 PM EDT up reply actions
Not buying it. While a 1st round exit would be highly disappointing, his 68% winning percentage keeps him another year.
by _Skullduggery_ on Apr 12, 2011 2:41 PM EDT up reply actions
@GoLondonKnights
Former Knights goalie Michael Hutchinson recalled from the Providence Bruins (AHL) for the Bruins playoffs push: http://bbru.in/vsMtlCallups
You perhaps knew me better as "Your Nation's Capital." Same great commentary, now with 100% more transparency!
Curious. You would think Thomas and Rask as a tandem would be enough to make the Bruins feel confident.
"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.
Is Providence in the Calder Cup playoffs? I haven’t heard them mentioned by Walton on the Bears broadcasts. Maybe it’s just to get the atmosphere.
Don’t try to figure Sasha out. Just ride the wave.
But they do have the worst home page in the history of the Internets.
Somebody explain to them it’s not 1998 any more.
Bahahaha, that’s pathetic.
"I don't like hockey. I'm just good at it." - Brett Hull
"They say you're not a coach in the league till you've been fired. I must be getting pretty good." - Terry Simpson
I make a point about this all the time, but the AHL’s web presence SUCKS. They have so many teams with cool logos and jerseys, and they’re wasted by shitty websites that are impossible to navigate and it’s nearly impossible to buy any merch online. You pretty much have to be in-site at the arena to buy things, and that’s just beyond stupid in this day and age.
And he cocked both his pistols and he spit in the dirt; And he walked out into the street
Box Seats Blog
Twitter
Ron and Fez 11 to 3
by YvonLabresMoustache on Apr 12, 2011 3:19 PM EDT up reply actions
No
AHL teams in playoffs and NHL affiliate (Asterisk* means both teams in playoffs)
( I typed this quickly so please forgive and point out any mistakes); I thought I saw a post that there were 7 teams where NHL team and affiliate qualified but by my quick count it’s 9 pairs.
Connecticut / NYR *
Portland / Buffalo *
Binghamton / Ottawa
Manchester/ LAK *
Norfolk / TBL *
W-B/Scranton / PIttsburgh *
Charlotte / Carolina
Hershey / Washington *
Oklahoma City / Edmonton
Hamilton / Montreal *
Manitoba/ Vancouver *
Lake Erie/ Colorado
Texas / Dallas
Milwaukee / Nashville *
Peoria / St. Louis
Houston / Minnesota
I have said that I thought this was Boudreau’s best season as an NHL coach. I have seen players make the change, most notably Yzerman, who was an offensive juggernaught but changed to a defensively responsible, two-way player for the good of the team. I have seen teams, like NJD earlier this season, go from a more open, sloppy defensive style to a tight defensive style when a coaching change occurs. But I can not recall a coach changing his philosophy with such success, particularly mid-season, nor a team making such a change sans a coaching change. I think what BB has done this regular season is remarkable, and why despite the magic that Blysma has worked without missing Crosby, Malkin, and Stall for various halves of the season, I believe Boudreau is as deserving as anyone of the Adams this year.
I don't know, maybe it was the roses...
Nice new content here – http://www.japersrink.com/2011/4/12/2103780/capitals-rangers-breaking-down-the-match-up
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
My coworkers just came back from lunch in Ballston and took a picture with Ovie. Apparently he was at Vapiano’s drinking beer outside with a couple other folks that looked Russian. I thought that was interesting.
That was one baseball-related tweet too many from SWhyno for my tastes. Sky Kerstein, just gimme a reason…
by Berube Doobie Doo on Apr 12, 2011 1:58 PM EDT reply actions
signage
From the TEB Boudreau profile
"I remember being really upset because a fan had brought a sign in warmup," forward Brooks Laich said. "It was a big sign and it said, ‘Fire Boudreau’. I don’t think he’s really been appreciated for the job he’s done around here. I remember lining up two pucks, stopping and taking two slap shots right at the glass, right at the guy holding the sign. I wanted to make my thoughts known."
Anyone want to take credit for that one?
The MP-85: Prone to occasional jams, but compact, durable and travels well.
Not if there’s a chance Brooksie can trace my IP address.
by Berube Doobie Doo on Apr 12, 2011 2:03 PM EDT up reply actions
I’d be willing to believe that Brooksie doesn’t even have an email address, so…I think you’re safe.
Sunrise, sunset, swiftly fly the years. One season following another, laden with happiness and tears.
Yeah, but he does carry a tire iron, apparently. I’m not risking it!
by Berube Doobie Doo on Apr 12, 2011 2:06 PM EDT up reply actions
I’d think the odds are at least pretty good that whoever did that doesn’t come here that often.
Aim for the head baby Jesus
I was going to say… fits the CI commenter profile…
The MP-85: Prone to occasional jams, but compact, durable and travels well.
by TheMattyHatty on Apr 12, 2011 2:05 PM EDT up reply actions
Not if it was spelled correctly.
Boss: "How's that task coming?" Alz: "Eh, it's trending Sasha." Boss: "What?" Alz: "..."
by Alz Well That Ends Well on Apr 12, 2011 2:09 PM EDT up reply actions 2 recs
I don’t know about that. There are a few vocal people that are int he camp against Boudreau…
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 Apr 12, 2011 2:05 PM EDT up reply actions
Yeah, you would have needed 4 pages for your sign.
I keed.
Boss: "How's that task coming?" Alz: "Eh, it's trending Sasha." Boss: "What?" Alz: "..."
by Alz Well That Ends Well on Apr 12, 2011 2:27 PM EDT up reply actions 11 recs
It’s too simple for my commentary.
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 Apr 12, 2011 2:31 PM EDT up reply actions
Yeah, Laich could never hit your seats with a puck.
First Round Exit! (Clap Clap ClapClapClap) First Round Exit!
by Rob Parker on Apr 12, 2011 2:37 PM EDT up reply actions 8 recs
Per Dreger:
Dennis Wideman was released from hosp yesterday after 2 weeks of treating a serious leg injury.
Sunrise, sunset, swiftly fly the years. One season following another, laden with happiness and tears.
by Becca H on Apr 12, 2011 2:06 PM EDT reply actions 2 recs
Well now. That’s a long time to be laid up. But good to hear he’s out, I guess. I hope to god that we see him on the ice in another game this season.
by Berube Doobie Doo on Apr 12, 2011 2:07 PM EDT up reply actions
Good news, that. Here’s hoping for a speedy recovery for Ol’ Crazy Legs.
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 Apr 12, 2011 2:08 PM EDT up reply actions
And I still don’t understand wtf happened there.
by Berube Doobie Doo on Apr 12, 2011 2:12 PM EDT up reply actions
WooT! Good news for that! Glad to hear he’s out. :-)
Photography: I Rock the Red
Twitter: @IRockTheRed
E-mail: irockthered {at} gmail {dot} com
Listening to Alan May on ESPN 980. He said Wideman has a nasty gash in his leg of 12-14" that he’s seen pictures of. They have to worry about infection and will take some time to heal. He does not expect him back until 3rd round, assuming we’re there (yes!).
Are you not entertained?
Gash that size wouldn’t be from the hit, correct? That’s the wound opened to treat the initial injury. One would think that 2 weeks of hospital would manage the wound effectively and eliminate the infection worry.
名誉と大きな脳物質のステッケルミーエルモ男！
Probably, though you can pick up some nasty infections in hospitals. If they are letting him out though then it is stitched up and most likely infection free.
Aim for the head baby Jesus
Also, two weeks on your back will kill your conditioning, and I doubt he’s going to be able to exercise real hard for a bit longer, y’know?
3rd round would be nice.
Patron saint of quality footwear.
Not the way the Caps have performed in the playoffs. But a team that makes it out of the first round, I think he’d have a shot. He’ll be out of shape, but I think he’d be able to play 3rd pair minutes by the ECF.
First Round Exit! (Clap Clap ClapClapClap) First Round Exit!
I wouldn’t mind seeing this team carry 7 defensemen and use someone as a PP specialist.
But what the hell do I know?
Atta dinnin stick a who!
by Gould Old Days on Apr 12, 2011 3:59 PM EDT up reply actions
It had to be left open awhile to drain the blood. Risk of infection is worse the longer you stay in the hospital (used to work in one and a medical school). Depending on how deep they had to cut into the muscle, that can take some healing time before you start putting stress on such a large incision. Surface healing is one thing; it’s what’s below that is hard to tell.
Are you not entertained?
GMGM said that the muscle is OK. Take that with a pound of salt, but it sounds encouraging.
by Berube Doobie Doo on Apr 12, 2011 3:36 PM EDT up reply actions
And some cayenne pepper? over charcoal heat? delicious.
Atta dinnin stick a who!
by Gould Old Days on Apr 12, 2011 3:59 PM EDT up reply actions
000
The Mike Wise/Boudreau thing….holy crap.
At which point Wise started backtracking, saying he would "take any kind of negativity out of" the question, and pointing out that he’s defended Boudreau in the past.
"What I’m saying very simply is have you been guaranteed by management or ownership that you’re gonna stick around?" Wise asked. "I think it’s a fair question, because of your history with this team and all the good things you’ve done."
Yeah. Still awkward. Not illegitimate as a question, but certainly awkward. Boudreau’s response:
"Well, I don’t think it’s a fair question. You’re asking me if they’ve come out and said Don’t worry Bruce, if you lose you’re gonna be around. The question has never been broached or approached. We’ve never conversed about it. That’s not George’s style. I’m here coaching the team and we’re trying to win. End of story.
Reading that literally made my teeth hurt from cringing.
And he cocked both his pistols and he spit in the dirt; And he walked out into the street
Box Seats Blog
Twitter
Ron and Fez 11 to 3
by YvonLabresMoustache on Apr 12, 2011 2:26 PM EDT reply actions
Mike Wise needs a fresh porcupine delivery.
That'll make your weagle wink!
The pants that bind us should be left behind us.
by boutros23 on Apr 12, 2011 2:30 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
When we’re walking Baxter, we generally get a litany of greyhound-related questions. People are just so curious about our dog. It’s something Labrador owners don’t experience. Almost all of the questions are polite, but we periodically get this gem:
How old is he?
He’s about nine
Oh yeah? Well, how long do they live?
Mike Wise is the kind of person who would ask a question that essentially boils down to “when is your your dog going to die?” Mike Wise is the kind of person who doesn’t get why it’s not a very nice thing to bring up.
(For the record, 14-15 years is not uncommon for the breed. But he could get hit by a car tomorrow. Just like any of the rest of us)
Atta dinnin stick a who!
by Gould Old Days on Apr 12, 2011 3:24 PM EDT up reply actions 4 recs
Mike Wise is the kind of person who doesn’tget whycare that it’s not a very nice thing to bring up.
No one ever asks me the lifespan of Springer Spaniels, not even when we had an ancient one. Impolite.
by Berube Doobie Doo on Apr 12, 2011 3:38 PM EDT up reply actions
Such a mean-spirited question.
"My favorite fan base in D.C. Is United's. Period. The end." - Steinberg
by Bald Pollack on Apr 12, 2011 2:31 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
I was listening to it and it really was a cringe-inducing moment. Ugh. To his credit, he did apolgoize to Bruce, but I don’t know what he was thinking in asking that question. He said the question didn’t come out the way he meant it to, but really, how did you mean it to come out? Obviously he meant to ask this specific question.
by redpezrocket on Apr 12, 2011 2:36 PM EDT up reply actions
Im sorry Charlie Murphy, It was an accident
Check out a new social network, Hockey Connect, a place for coaches, players, family and fans to share strategies and experiences.
by Cap-O-Vens on Apr 12, 2011 2:40 PM EDT up reply actions 4 recs
Just because he asked it to BB? We’ve all been asking the same thing. I think he could have phrased it a whole lot better, but it’s not like he’s the first to say it.
First Round Exit! (Clap Clap ClapClapClap) First Round Exit!
Scrolling down for the snark.
"My favorite fan base in D.C. Is United's. Period. The end." - Steinberg
by Bald Pollack on Apr 12, 2011 2:42 PM EDT up reply actions
Wow, I really dropped the ball. That’s why I stay away from the Mike Wise discussions. Yeah, that’s the ticket…
First Round Exit! (Clap Clap ClapClapClap) First Round Exit!
No worries. Unsurprisingly(?) I’m with you on the super serial side of it.
"My favorite fan base in D.C. Is United's. Period. The end." - Steinberg
by Bald Pollack on Apr 12, 2011 2:50 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
Its a pot shot. It should have been done a few months ago and asked with some journalistic dignity. Not on the eve of the playoffs, with the team playing well. Wise is a joke.
Check out a new social network, Hockey Connect, a place for coaches, players, family and fans to share strategies and experiences.
I can see why he axed him the question, but I think it’s really unfair. And his timing is off by about 4-5 monfs. And I don’t even see how it’s
You know, I hope if the Caps win for anyone, they win for Bruce. I don’t think anyone involved with this franchise takes more unnecessary, undeserved BS than he does.
And he cocked both his pistols and he spit in the dirt; And he walked out into the street
Box Seats Blog
Twitter
Ron and Fez 11 to 3
by YvonLabresMoustache on Apr 12, 2011 2:40 PM EDT up reply actions
/should be “And I don’t even see how it’s relevant”
And he cocked both his pistols and he spit in the dirt; And he walked out into the street
Box Seats Blog
Twitter
Ron and Fez 11 to 3
by YvonLabresMoustache on Apr 12, 2011 2:40 PM EDT up reply actions
Come on man, you of all people would remember where that came from.
"My favorite fan base in D.C. Is United's. Period. The end." - Steinberg
by Bald Pollack on Apr 12, 2011 2:42 PM EDT up reply actions
000
Oof.
Juuuust a bit outside!
And he cocked both his pistols and he spit in the dirt; And he walked out into the street
Box Seats Blog
Twitter
Ron and Fez 11 to 3
by YvonLabresMoustache on Apr 12, 2011 2:44 PM EDT up reply actions
tough to pick up the snark when we are lighting our torches for a wise hunt
Check out a new social network, Hockey Connect, a place for coaches, players, family and fans to share strategies and experiences.
Since he previously noted that we are very mean on Japers’, I will call him the meanest thing I can think of:
Mike Wise is Mike Wise.
Boss: "How's that task coming?" Alz: "Eh, it's trending Sasha." Boss: "What?" Alz: "..."
by Alz Well That Ends Well on Apr 12, 2011 2:51 PM EDT up reply actions 2 recs
I was almost worried about getting banned.
Boss: "How's that task coming?" Alz: "Eh, it's trending Sasha." Boss: "What?" Alz: "..."
by Alz Well That Ends Well on Apr 12, 2011 2:56 PM EDT up reply actions
The ultimate punishment. With all this glorious content, what would you do at work?
"I don't like hockey. I'm just good at it." - Brett Hull
"They say you're not a coach in the league till you've been fired. I must be getting pretty good." - Terry Simpson
I guess I could still read, but without the ‘z’ key, it would be from outside the walled garden of elitosity that is Japers’.
Boss: "How's that task coming?" Alz: "Eh, it's trending Sasha." Boss: "What?" Alz: "..."
by Alz Well That Ends Well on Apr 12, 2011 3:24 PM EDT up reply actions
I am, uh, reliably informed that the Z key still works if one is in exile.
Patron saint of quality footwear.
awesome…and the appeal process mentioned below
Check out a new social network, Hockey Connect, a place for coaches, players, family and fans to share strategies and experiences.
The new handle, however, not so much. We…see…ALL.
Have a nice day! :D
Sunrise, sunset, swiftly fly the years. One season following another, laden with happiness and tears.
Big Brother is watching?
Check out a new social network, Hockey Connect, a place for coaches, players, family and fans to share strategies and experiences.
I’m relatively sure quite a few people here could spoof an IP, not that I would ever do such a thing.
Aim for the head baby Jesus
dont think you need to go as deep as IP, I think different email would suffice
Check out a new social network, Hockey Connect, a place for coaches, players, family and fans to share strategies and experiences.
one or more of you may be speaking from personal experience..
by Natty Bumppo on Apr 12, 2011 3:45 PM EDT up reply actions
It’s also surprising how well “I’m sorry and it won’t happen again” works…
Atta dinnin stick a who!
by Gould Old Days on Apr 12, 2011 4:00 PM EDT up reply actions
haha…this
Check out a new social network, Hockey Connect, a place for coaches, players, family and fans to share strategies and experiences.
random bit of awesome i’d never noticed:
if you press the Z key while the little black “NEW COMMENTS” box is still showing in the lower right hand corner of the screen, the names in the new comment box are eliminated one by one.
by Natty Bumppo on Apr 12, 2011 3:39 PM EDT up reply actions
What happens if you get banned? You just can’t comment/log in or you’re blocked from the site completely?
"I don't like hockey. I'm just good at it." - Brett Hull
"They say you're not a coach in the league till you've been fired. I must be getting pretty good." - Terry Simpson
There’s a black notice at the bottom that says
“You have been BANNED from Japers’ Rink. You can browse, but you can’t participate.”
The Z key still works, you see new comment totals, etc.
Patron saint of quality footwear.
Funny, mine says:
You have been BANNED from Blueshit Banter. You’re welcome.
First Round Exit! (Clap Clap ClapClapClap) First Round Exit!
by Rob Parker on Apr 12, 2011 3:46 PM EDT up reply actions 5 recs
japers’ rink, always using helpful information to one-up other blogs!
by Natty Bumppo on Apr 12, 2011 3:47 PM EDT up reply actions
Does the Z key still work?
(Note: I clicked the wrong mouse button when I hit ‘reply’ and the box didn’t open, and I thought for a second, "shit, I got banned again’. Heh.)
Patron saint of quality footwear.
I don’t know. Haven’t gone back there to find out. They’re on the dead to me list.
Z key works on my phone though, which is a sweet development.
First Round Exit! (Clap Clap ClapClapClap) First Round Exit!
Really? is that when you are at the mobile version or the full site version.
Aim for the head baby Jesus
Does your phone have a physical keyboard? I don’t come here on my phone much, but I like to read the game threads at Federal Baseball when when I am at the game, since there is a lot more downtime during a baseball game.
Aim for the head baby Jesus
no way…how is that…I am dying for it to work on my xoom
Check out a new social network, Hockey Connect, a place for coaches, players, family and fans to share strategies and experiences.
Blueshit Banter.
Please tell me that typo is actually in their ban notice.
"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 Apr 12, 2011 4:00 PM EDT up reply actions
I’m pretty sure they really don’t like that typo.
First Round Exit! (Clap Clap ClapClapClap) First Round Exit!
Too good to be true — the quote threw me.
"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 Apr 12, 2011 4:06 PM EDT up reply actions
you always have the appeal process or coming back with a new handle…
Check out a new social network, Hockey Connect, a place for coaches, players, family and fans to share strategies and experiences.
It’s getting to the point where I think Mike Wise enjoys not knowing too much about hockey. He jokes about not being very knowledgeable, but that’s all he does is joke. I think a lot of what he does is schtick, but he’s supposed to be the credible one on air since he’s the Washington Post columnist. I was in my car when I heard him ask Matt Hendricks to guarantee a cup or a 1st round win. I don’t know if these were all planned guests today, but even if you don’t have planned questions, have some common sense.
by JimCareyFanClub on Apr 12, 2011 2:33 PM EDT up reply actions
So you’re saying Wise is stealing Kornheiser’s bit?
This sig is brought to you by... Frungy, The Sport of Kings!
Wouldn’t be the first time
/zing
And he cocked both his pistols and he spit in the dirt; And he walked out into the street
Box Seats Blog
Twitter
Ron and Fez 11 to 3
by YvonLabresMoustache on Apr 12, 2011 2:51 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
Bruce was on with Tony this morning, and it was a great interview. Tony starts out with you know this will be entirely a non-hockey discussion, and well, it touched on hockey, but not Caps playoff hockey. It was just a profile type piece. No zings.
Don’t try to figure Sasha out. Just ride the wave.
If King isn’t playing, maybe he needs a sparring partner.
Boss: "How's that task coming?" Alz: "Eh, it's trending Sasha." Boss: "What?" Alz: "..."
by Alz Well That Ends Well on Apr 12, 2011 2:35 PM EDT up reply actions
And Mike Wise somehow manages to drop even lower in my opinion. Lower than a snake’s belly in a wagon rut.
by Berube Doobie Doo on Apr 12, 2011 2:39 PM EDT up reply actions
heck, I’m surprised he didn’t post that Boudreau had been fired to his twitter just to see if people would believe him.
by brooksengr on Apr 12, 2011 8:36 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
Alan May on ESPN 980
Mentioned above that he said he’s seen pictures of Wideman’s leg amd it’s a 12-14" gash that will take some time to heal. There’s always the infection worry and he does not expect him back until 3rd round.
Also, took a call that asked if Semin’s problems in the playoffs were “mental” (more armchair psychology). May said he thought Semin was the best forward in the series, taking 42 (actually 44) shots. He said he went back in the studio and looked at Semin’s shots and said the problem was he had little or no support from his linemates in terms of being where they should have been in front of the net getting rebounds, etc. He thought if they had been, it would have been a different story. With the way they’re playing now, he expects it to be difference this year.
Are you not entertained?
I love Alan May. He’s the eternal optimist.
by Berube Doobie Doo on Apr 12, 2011 3:00 PM EDT up reply actions
really Id prefer to see him back in the SCF
Check out a new social network, Hockey Connect, a place for coaches, players, family and fans to share strategies and experiences.
It’s the playoffs; he might still come back in the 2nd.
It is our most modestly priced receptacle.
by Rainbow, Kitty, Beer on Apr 12, 2011 4:27 PM EDT up reply actions
Semin had two assists in the series but should have had many more, had the Caps been able to gather a few rebounds. I’d be interested to find out how many second chance shots the Caps had on Semin’s chances in the Montreal series. I would bet not many. He averaged better than 6 shots a game, just couldn’t solve the Montreal goalies (something of a theme) and got no help.
He was actively bad in the Pittsburgh series the season before, but against Montreal, I thought Semin’s worst problem was bad luck.
I don't know, maybe it was the roses...
He averaged better than 6 shots a game,
But were they Quality Shots?
名誉と大きな脳物質のステッケルミーエルモ男！
by stemmer on Apr 12, 2011 3:38 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
He had his fair share, maybe not proportionally as many as during the regular season, but he wasn’t only floating wristers from the point, that’s for sure.
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 Apr 12, 2011 3:41 PM EDT up reply actions
Z’ing through this thread. you are on a role today
Soon the Championship with be ours, all ours!
by kingzman264 on Apr 12, 2011 11:26 PM EDT up reply actions
Well, in the Pitt series IIRC he was playing injured, wrist I think, and was not shooting as much (15 shots vs 27 in NY series), opting for passing. He did has 6 assists in that series.
Are you not entertained?
It was a badly sprained thumb, wasn’t it?
by DrinkingPartner on Apr 12, 2011 3:41 PM EDT up reply actions
I don’t recall if it was a sprain or fracture, but he was freezing it before games and wouldn’t have played in a regular season game.
First Round Exit! (Clap Clap ClapClapClap) First Round Exit!
The exact nature of the injury was never explicitly stated. Believe it was from a slash by Orpik. F&B, you’re right in that he was getting the thumb numbed before games and wouldn’t have been playing if it were the regular season. (He also was not making it to practice during the Pitt series — assume it was “maintenance” for the thumb.)
Semin did get 5 assists in the Pitt series.
Rocking the Red for teams on the banks of the Potomac and at the Gateway Arch and Singing the Blues about Hockey.
To the FanPost lab!
"I don't like hockey. I'm just good at it." - Brett Hull
"They say you're not a coach in the league till you've been fired. I must be getting pretty good." - Terry Simpson
Damn, reply fail. Always gets me when it’s the last comment on the page cause the boxes are right next to each other.
"I don't like hockey. I'm just good at it." - Brett Hull
"They say you're not a coach in the league till you've been fired. I must be getting pretty good." - Terry Simpson
There is some research already done at behind the net and here, fyi.
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 Apr 12, 2011 3:44 PM EDT up reply actions
Via PD:
The Officials selected are:
Referees:
Paul Devorski, Eric Furlatt, Marc Joannette, Greg Kimmerly, Steve Kozari, Dennis Larue, Chris Lee, Wes McCauley, Brad Meier, Dan O’Halloran, Dan O’Rourke, Tim Peel, Brian Pochmara, Kevin Pollock, Chris Rooney, Kelly Sutherland, François St-Laurent, Stephen Walkom, Ian Walsh and Brad Watson.
Linesmen:
Derek Amell, Steve Barton, Dave Brisebois, Scott Cherrey, Greg Devorski, Scott Driscoll, Ryan Galloway, Shane Heyer, Brad Kovachik, Brad Lazarowich, Steve Miller, Jean Morin, Brian Murphy, Jonny Murray, Derek Nansen, Tim Nowak, Pierre Racicot, Tony Sericolo, Jay Sharrers and Mark Wheler.
by Berube Doobie Doo on Apr 12, 2011 3:44 PM EDT reply actions
Can anyone tell who’s missing? Is there an easy way to check?
Atta dinnin stick a who!
by Gould Old Days on Apr 12, 2011 4:02 PM EDT up reply actions
Ctrl-F, “Auger”.
Sunrise, sunset, swiftly fly the years. One season following another, laden with happiness and tears.
Walkom went up a few notches in my book after watching the Winter Classic episode of 24/7.
Pledge Drive 2010-2011: SO KIDS CAN!! Help build a playground
Caps Betting Lines!
Per Dan Steinberg:
First-Round Points Over/Unders
Alex Ovechkin: /- 6
Nicklas Backstrom: +/- 4.5
Alexander Semin: +/- 4.5
Marian Gaborik:/- 4
Brandon Dubinsky: +/- 3.5
Derek Stepan: +/- 3
I’m absolutely taking the over on Ovechkin there. Even if the series only goes to five games, chances are it’s because Ovechkin’s had a huge series.
Even if it’s a sweep, he averages over 1.5 PPG in the playoffs.
by Berube Doobie Doo on Apr 12, 2011 3:46 PM EDT up reply actions
although i know you mean points per game, i really wish you meant power play goals.
by Natty Bumppo on Apr 12, 2011 3:46 PM EDT up reply actions
On Broadway
So the Caps are going to Broadway. If the team was a play, which one would it be? Les Mis = redemption?
Are you not entertained?
Boom
Soon the Championship with be ours, all ours!
by kingzman264 on Apr 12, 2011 11:27 PM EDT up reply actions
Sick.
Welcome to Japers' Rink, we're "elitist" as fuck.
by PrincessPowerful on Apr 12, 2011 11:39 PM EDT up reply actions
“Sunday in the Park with George McPhee”
by Berube Doobie Doo on Apr 12, 2011 4:08 PM EDT up reply actions
If BB pulls Neuvy after game 1 it’ll be “The Fiddler on The Truth”.
It is our most modestly priced receptacle.
by Rainbow, Kitty, Beer on Apr 12, 2011 4:34 PM EDT up reply actions 2 recs
The Producers.
Boss: "How's that task coming?" Alz: "Eh, it's trending Sasha." Boss: "What?" Alz: "..."
by Alz Well That Ends Well on Apr 12, 2011 4:46 PM EDT up reply actions
“They criticize our run & gun style? I’ll switch to a defensive system and bore the hell out of them and they’ll beg us to go back!”
…time passes…
“Hmm, this plan is not so good. We might accidentally win a series in 6.”
Boss: "How's that task coming?" Alz: "Eh, it's trending Sasha." Boss: "What?" Alz: "..."
by Alz Well That Ends Well on Apr 12, 2011 4:57 PM EDT up reply actions
Crawford out in Dallas
Per McKenzie and the usual suspects.
"My favorite fan base in D.C. Is United's. Period. The end." - Steinberg
Interesting. I wonder why. They weren’t supposed to contend and almost made the playoffs despite missing Richards for a large part of the year and having a tenuous goalie situation. Very unforgiving. Guess someone else will snap him up and he’ll win a Jack Adams.
First Round Exit! (Clap Clap ClapClapClap) First Round Exit!
Was thinking the same thing. It’s amazing how fast expectations get bumped from low to high these days…they were in a playoff race they had no business being a part of and put some heat on the defending champs, when everyone figured they’d be a lottery team.
Just wait, Maurice will gets fired in Carolina next.
Sunrise, sunset, swiftly fly the years. One season following another, laden with happiness and tears.
Little Stat Nugget - Rangers Shooting %
Rangers scored 224 goals on 2453 shots. That’s a 9.1% shooting percentage, which is slightly higher than the league average. The Caps shot 8.5% (219 goals, 2566 shots), almost exactly (that’s for you, Berube) the league average.
At 8.5% shooting %, the Rags would have generated 209 goals this year.
A bit more:
Rags are 22 – 19 – 3 when outshooting their opponets. 21 – 12 – 1 when being outshot. Score effects, I guess, but interesting nonetheless.
Patron saint of quality footwear.
Wow
I’ve been as hard as anyone on the Sabres’ video scouting system, but fair is fair: Luke Adam is the third consecutive AHL Rookie of the Year from the Buffalo organization. A supremely competitive field will prevent Tyler Ennis from replacing Tyler Myers as the NHL version, but he’s a good one. Jhonas Enroth saved them when Ryan Miller got hurt. Credit where credit is due.
That is some impressive stuff. With the new owner promising to spend money I bet BUF gets good pretty soon.
First Round Exit! (Clap Clap ClapClapClap) First Round Exit!
They were pretty good last season. Just an off year missing Roy for some time and Myers’ sophomore slump I suppose.
"I don't like hockey. I'm just good at it." - Brett Hull
"They say you're not a coach in the league till you've been fired. I must be getting pretty good." - Terry Simpson
They’re hoping Roy can return this season, just like we’re hoping Wideman can return this season.
by Berube Doobie Doo on Apr 12, 2011 5:20 PM EDT up reply actions
Check out his Norris pick, man. That’s Duhatschek, McKenzie, Marek, and now Friedman who have publicly thrown their support to Weber.
"Nothing." - Tuukka Rask, after being asked what he saw on Shea Weber's game winner in overtime.
by Chris Burton on Apr 12, 2011 5:29 PM EDT up reply actions
Defending Big D’s take on the Crawford firing:
http://www.defendingbigd.com/2011/4/12/2106835/dallas-stars-fire-head-coach-marc-crawford
"I don't like hockey. I'm just good at it." - Brett Hull
"They say you're not a coach in the league till you've been fired. I must be getting pretty good." - Terry Simpson
The real takeaway from that is this
In Crawford’s time here the Stars spent only about $45 million on payroll, severely restricted by the on-going ownership fiasco that is the exit of Tom Hicks and the eventual sale of the team.
Aim for the head baby Jesus
Um, ew…
The Capitals had a great stretch run, going 16-3-1 in their last 20 games and passing the Flyers, who they had trailed by 12 points in late February. Their best offensive defenseman, Mike Green, was out of the lineup with a concussion for those 20 games. Coincidence? Hmmm.
Sunrise, sunset, swiftly fly the years. One season following another, laden with happiness and tears.
Bunch of questions with Capital answers.
http://sports.espn.go.com/nhl/playoffs/2011/news/story?id=6331270
"I don't like hockey. I'm just good at it." - Brett Hull
"They say you're not a coach in the league till you've been fired. I must be getting pretty good." - Terry Simpson
Neuvy on the news just now from today’s practice: “I think our team is way better than them.”
名誉と大きな脳物質のステッケルミーエルモ男！
Sigh. Rookies
"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."
Worked out well for him in the AHL. Now we just wait and see.
"I don't like hockey. I'm just good at it." - Brett Hull
"They say you're not a coach in the league till you've been fired. I must be getting pretty good." - Terry Simpson
He laid down message board lines with the Bears? Hadn’t read that
"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."
I just recall him saying he was better than Bernier even though most people thought Bernier was a better prospect and they went on to win the series I believe.
"I don't like hockey. I'm just good at it." - Brett Hull
"They say you're not a coach in the league till you've been fired. I must be getting pretty good." - Terry Simpson
Okay. I guess if that’s his personality I don’t want him to do anything different 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."
absolutely his personality. He might not come off as the cockiest SOB on the ice, but he really believe he is the best damn goalie currently playing.
Pledge Drive 2010-2011: SO KIDS CAN!! Help build a playground
Neuvy, in many ways, reminds me of this kid my elder daughter knew back in 2nd grade. This boy came in as the new kid in October and, after a few weeks, declared, “I’m the smarted kid in the class. I know that 27 divided by 3 is 9.” Similar demeanor.
Rocking the Red for teams on the banks of the Potomac and at the Gateway Arch and Singing the Blues about Hockey.
Yes, but I don’t think that came out until after the series was over.
Don’t try to figure Sasha out. Just ride the wave.
Annnd I’m probably wrong…the closest I could find is:
http://www.japersrink.com/2011/2/11/1987676/friday-caps-clips-kings-gambit#58979787
Here’s the original story:
http://www.csnwashington.com/pages/landing_09?blockID=241165
�He came to me [before the series] and said, �Bernier is getting a lot of press.� I said, �Yeah, yeah,� and then he goes, �but I�m better,� � Hershey coach Mark French said. �It was with a very straight face and he meant no disservice, but I think he took this series as a personal challenge.
Don’t try to figure Sasha out. Just ride the wave.
saying that the Caps are a more skilled and talented team than the Rangers is hardly a controversial statement
/facepalm
Check out a new social network, Hockey Connect, a place for coaches, players, family and fans to share strategies and experiences.
I assume you mean for king henrik
Check out a new social network, Hockey Connect, a place for coaches, players, family and fans to share strategies and experiences.
This is the WTOP story. The quote they report is
Asked about Lundqvist, Neuvirth had an answer for those who might the consider the goaltender matchup to be lopsided.
“He may be the best goalie in the league,” Neuvirth said, “but I think our shooters are better than theirs.”
I hope his confidence in the shooters is justified.
Don’t make fun of my obsession over ketchup dispensers ever again! ;) Ted Leonsis
Quick question. What do you say to the Pens’ fan that says the only reason the Caps can win a cup is because Crosby is hurt?
"I don't like hockey. I'm just good at it." - Brett Hull
"They say you're not a coach in the league till you've been fired. I must be getting pretty good." - Terry Simpson
That’s ridiculous, it’s not like the Pens have won it every year that Crosby has been healthy, and last I checked he played in the WC as well. The Pens this year with Crosby were a good team, but hardly dominant.
Aim for the head baby Jesus
ask if them if the reason the pens won the cup in 2009 was because datsyuk was hurt.
by Natty Bumppo on Apr 12, 2011 6:17 PM EDT up reply actions
It wasn’t. It was because Lidstrom was hurt.
First Round Exit! (Clap Clap ClapClapClap) First Round Exit!
by Rob Parker on Apr 12, 2011 6:35 PM EDT up reply actions 4 recs
“Go fuck yourself.”
名誉と大きな脳物質のステッケルミーエルモ男！
by stemmer on Apr 12, 2011 6:31 PM EDT up reply actions 5 recs
Can I just get the Big Mac already?
Boss: "How's that task coming?" Alz: "Eh, it's trending Sasha." Boss: "What?" Alz: "..."
by Alz Well That Ends Well on Apr 12, 2011 6:47 PM EDT up reply actions 7 recs
I would love to be telling mouthbreathers what a bull shit statement that is come June
Check out a new social network, Hockey Connect, a place for coaches, players, family and fans to share strategies and experiences.
Keith Jones just picked Nashville to come out of the West. Roenick flipped out.
Also, with Steckel gone, who do you put out to take a critical game-clinching defensive zone draw? Boyd Gordon? Nick Backstrom? Arnott?
"I don't like hockey. I'm just good at it." - Brett Hull
"They say you're not a coach in the league till you've been fired. I must be getting pretty good." - Terry Simpson
goes back to the way Steckel and Gordo flipped faceoffs based on whether a righty or lefty would stand the best chance. Part of why they’d end up having 70% faceoffs sometimes.
Many a night from yonder ivied casement, ere I went to rest,
Did I look on great Orion sloping slowly to the West.
I meant to say Baxter and Gordo would switch off duties, most likely
Many a night from yonder ivied casement, ere I went to rest,
Did I look on great Orion sloping slowly to the West.
Let’s say it’s Game 7, 10 seconds left, up 2-1 with the goalie pulled, faceoff in the defensive zone. Who do you send out there?
"I don't like hockey. I'm just good at it." - Brett Hull
"They say you're not a coach in the league till you've been fired. I must be getting pretty good." - Terry Simpson
Anybody watching the Draft Lottery?
"I don't like hockey. I'm just good at it." - Brett Hull
"They say you're not a coach in the league till you've been fired. I must be getting pretty good." - Terry Simpson
Edmonton has #1. New Jersey won it at 8 but could only move up 4 to #4 overall.
Order:
Edmonton
Colorado
Florida
New Jersey
New York Islanders
Murray looks pissed.
"I don't like hockey. I'm just good at it." - Brett Hull
"They say you're not a coach in the league till you've been fired. I must be getting pretty good." - Terry Simpson
They have to give up a first but not necessarily this year.
You perhaps knew me better as "Your Nation's Capital." Same great commentary, now with 100% more transparency!
Lewiston is tied at 1 at the second intermission. Carrier has the Lewiston goal.
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 Apr 12, 2011 8:34 PM EDT reply actions
Woo!
You perhaps knew me better as "Your Nation's Capital." Same great commentary, now with 100% more transparency!
I tried to get friends together to go to this game, but everyone’s too busy and it was too short notice. Here’s hoping some people can go to the game tomorrow night.
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 Apr 12, 2011 8:45 PM EDT up reply actions
Steckel Me Elmo:
Lewiston, Maine? Just curious, I live in Waterville and if it’s Maine, nice to know there are other Caps fans up here in the frigid NE.
Mostly Bruins fans up here, with a sprinkling of Habs fans and a Sabres, Rangers, or Flyers fan here or there.
I don't know, maybe it was the roses...
So, No Caps on Versus tomorrow (Joined in progress maybe for a bit)
Could be worse though, Pens/Lightning have NO games live and complete and Flyers/Sabres have 1 maybe 2. Unbelievable!
Obstreperously Avatarless
Unless something has changed since last year, everything not on nationally (or in your local market) is on GameCenter
"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."
That does me no good.
As i don’t have or plan on paying for gamecenter, nor is it on my bigscreen TeeVee.
Obstreperously Avatarless
LEWISTON MAINEIACS WIN!!! They go up 2-1 in the series.
Brodeur scored with 5 seconds left in the third!
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 Apr 12, 2011 9:16 PM EDT reply actions
Carrier was the third star.
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 Apr 12, 2011 9:22 PM EDT up reply actions
A couple of things…
Dunno if anyone has mentioned it, but Burnside at ESPN says the general feel is that, unless Neuvirth melts down, Bruce is going to change tact and actually try to ride him this post-season, the theory being that Neuvirth’s history has shown that the more work he gets, the better he plays. History has shown that the more work Varly gets, a piece will break off. Curious if thissignals that the Caps are going to kind of push Neuvy for the number one spot over Varly, because of Varly’s durability issues. Neuvirth has shown himself to be no iron man, but Varly is a china doll back there.
Also, every time I hear the Caps called a team with ‘a recent history of underperforming in the playoffs’, it makes me cock my head. It reminds me of that T-Mobile commercial and the line ‘It makes sense if you don’t think about it’. Setting aside the incontrovertable fact that NOT ALL first round series HAVE to go 7 games, it seems to me the Caps have only truly underperformed last year.
3 years ago, they won their last 7 to make the playoffs, earning them home ice and higher seed against a Flyers team that had a better record than Washington in a tougher division, and a lot more experience. The Caps pushed them to a thrilling 7 games. 2 playtoffs ago, the Caps beat these same Rangers in a series where the Caps could be said to arguably have underperformed, but they moved on where they lost to the defending conference champions and eventually Cup winners in 7. The problem was the Halak broke the progression by stopping 145 of 148 shots in the last three games of the series.
The more I thought about it over the off-season, the more I thought the Caps would have won in the second round had they gotten by Montreal, having learned some hard lessons about hard work, and about humility, not listening to your press clippings, and taking nothing for granted. So, the effect of those lessons was postponed until this year, and my gut is telling me that while every game will be nail-biting close, with OTs and late heroics, I feel Caps in 5, and it wouldn’t surprise me to see them sweep while outscoring the Rangers by 4-5 goals total.
I don't know, maybe it was the roses...
by Jalabar on Apr 12, 2011 9:47 PM EDT reply actions 1 recs
the theory being that Neuvirth’s history has shown that the more work he gets, the better he plays. History has shown that the more work Varly gets, a piece will break off.
Found that funny for some reason.
"I don't like hockey. I'm just good at it." - Brett Hull
"They say you're not a coach in the league till you've been fired. I must be getting pretty good." - Terry Simpson
for all their potential vulnerabilities, I think the Caps are going to be an incredibly formidable team this year in the playoffs. They just feel so powerful, and this year feels so right
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
