Monday Caps Clips: Now It's A Series
by J.P. on Apr 18, 2011 6:29 AM EDT
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Your savory breakfast links:
- Recaps and other assorted musings on yesterday's loss from us, Caps365 video (Boudreau, players), Vogs, NHL.com (Lozo: gamer, blog; Masisak: article, article), WashTimes (Whyno: gamer, blog, blog; Daly: column), WaPo (El-Bashir: blog, gamer; Carrera: blog; Hamilton: column), DCEx (McNally: gamer, blog), CSN Washington (O'Halloran, O'Halloran), NBC4 Washington, ESPN (Burnside), 106.7 The Fan (Kerstein), Puck Daddy, PHT, THN, Frankovic, Peerless, SB Nation DC, RMNB , RLS, Caps Outsider, KOL, CRtC, Caps Degenerate, Hockey Mom, OFB, Puckhead and Sick Unbelievable, and for the view from the other side, Ranger Rants, Blue Notes ($), Blueshirts Blog, Scotty Hockey and Blueshirt Banter.
- The CSN Washington talking heads on the late second period no-goal. [CSN Washington (video)]
- We've never been big Chris Rooney fans, but certainly take no joy in seeing his season end this way. [PHT]
- If you're likely to be entertained by Eric Fehr and Sean Collins tossing a baseball back and forth, have I got a video clip for you. [NHL.com]
- A look at the fans. [Capitals News Network]
- On the "F" word (not that one, the other one) and hockey. [Puck Buddys (language NSFW)]
- I think we can consider Braden Holtby a Dmitry Orlov fan. [Patriot-News (Leone)]
- Prospect playoff updates (thanks, Emily):
- Caleb Herbert went 0-0-0, minus-1 in three games as the Sioux City Musketeers fell 2-1 to Sioux Falls in a best-of-three and his season is done. Caleb is scheduled to play for (defending national champion) Minnesota-Duluth next season.
- Cody Eakin finally knows which team his Kootenay Ice will face for the WHL Eastern Conference championship. They'll play the Medicine Hat Tigers beginning April 22.
- Brett Flemming and the Mississauga St. Michael's Majors will face the Niagara Ice Dogs for the OHL Eastern Conference championship beginning April 19.
- Stan Galiev and the St. John Sea Dogs will play host to Samuel Carrier and the Lewiston MAINEiacs for the QMJHL semifinals. Game dates still TBD.
- Caleb Herbert went 0-0-0, minus-1 in three games as the Sioux City Musketeers fell 2-1 to Sioux Falls in a best-of-three and his season is done. Caleb is scheduled to play for (defending national champion) Minnesota-Duluth next season.
- Finally, happy 33rd birthday to Boyd Kane and happy 34th to Sebastien Charpentier.
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Orlov goes +4 in a 4-2 playoff game? I guess he’s got to have some sort of clue what he’s doing out there.
First Round Exit! (Clap Clap ClapClapClap) First Round Exit!
“That’s just going on straight talent, really, because there’s no real communication out there," Holtby said. "I almost confuse him probably sometimes when I’m yelling things. He goes totally off what he thinks.
Heh.
SHOE has some postgame video – I’m not 100% sure about this, but it looks like Braden Holtby is trying to rock the Greenie faux-hawk. Not a fan.
Don’t try to figure Sasha out. Just ride the wave.
It’s enough to make me smile despite the loss yesterday. That kid’s going to be something on his ELC.
by Berube Doobie Doo on Apr 18, 2011 10:25 AM EDT up reply actions
Just yesterday there was a link about “the question not asked.” Well, one day later I suspect it’s a question to be asked again. I think Neuvy should get game 4 to redeem himself, but if the Caps go back to VC tied I bet Varlamov gets game 5 start unless Neuvith is out of his mind in a 1-0 loss. I didn’t particularly like any of the 3 goals Nevuy let in, but at least they got less soft as the game wore on… First goal was silky soft. Second goal was only Charmin soft. Third goal you can cut some slack for a ridiculously obscene bounce, but that’s just a play you need your goalie to make at that time.
Of course, if any of the 4 Caps on the ice had been bothered to play out the shift maybe Neuvy never needs to stop that. Kudos for Dubi’s effort, but for AO and Hannan to lose a battle that they had an initial 2-on-1 situation in, then for nobody to do anything about the drive to the net is shameful. I expected the Rags to come out hard yesterday, and probably win, but it’s still hard to watch.
First Round Exit! (Clap Clap ClapClapClap) First Round Exit!
by Rob Parker on Apr 18, 2011 6:53 AM EDT reply actions 8 recs
No need to go to Varly next game. The Rangers could have ended up with 3 goals in a number of ways. Neuvy’s save on McCabe in the 3rd was robbery and he was excellent during the extended 5v3.
Whether it’s Varly or Neuvy in the cage (I am comfortable with either) the Caps skaters must put up a better performance. If you had told me before the series started that after game 3 Neuvy would have a .951 SV% and 1.22 GAA I would have jumped for joy.
The disturbing thing about this series against the Rangers is that it has required perfection in the cage to get our first two wins and would have required near perfection again yesterday to get our third, that is a lot to ask of any goalie in the playoffs especially when they are not the star of your team like Miller and Lundqvist.
by 7-Hole Glove Side on Apr 18, 2011 9:40 AM EDT up reply actions
The disturbing thing about this series against the Rangers is that it has required perfection in the cage to get our first two wins
Really? Nine SOG for NYR in the final two periods of game two. Neuvirth had to be pretty good in the first two games but I don’t think he had to be Dominik Hasek. His performance in games one and two were average to above average for a playoff performance IMO.
I’d agree with that. If any goalie had to be perfect to give the team a chance it was Lundqvist. I’d say the Caps have had the better of the scoring chances over the course of the series…
Sunrise, sunset, swiftly fly the years. One season following another, laden with happiness and tears.
I’d say the Caps have had the better of the scoring chances over the course of the series…
Clearly they have, esp during 5v5. NYR had one 5v5 chance in each of the first and second periods of Game 3 and none in the 2nd period of Game 2.
Hard to overcome seven minors….
"Shots aren't the important thing. Scoring chances are way more important than shots." - Bruce Boudreau
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.
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Hard to overcome seven minors….
There’s a Michael Jackson joke in there…
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by J.P. on Apr 18, 2011 10:09 AM EDT up reply actions 5 recs
too soon.
We're Hüsker Dü and we're on MTV. Who are you, and what are you on?
by bilspacecadet on Apr 18, 2011 11:48 AM EDT up reply actions
I hear ya and agree. My point wasn’t that he had to steal the game it was that he had to be perfect in order for the Caps to win.
If the Caps can’t win a series with a .951 SV% and 1.22 GAA then something is very wrong.
by 7-Hole Glove Side on Apr 18, 2011 10:18 AM EDT up reply actions
I agree completely – another one like that and it’s time to make a switch in net. That said, the guys in front of him have to be much, much better.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
Oh for sure, the Rags were the better team and you can’t say that we would have won but for the poor goaltending. But as you know, the biggest thing I value in a goalie is not letting in soft goals, and Neuvy let in 2 in one playoff game. Even if your team plays well it’s very hard to overcome that. (And given that the Rags gave us their best punch so far, and got 2 soft goals and a lucky bounce, I think the Caps should still feel confident in their chances.)
First Round Exit! (Clap Clap ClapClapClap) First Round Exit!
No doubt.
The Caps were awful yesterday from the net out. The officiating was probably even worse. And yet, the game was tied with two minutes left.
The Caps went to NY to win one game; they can still come home having accomplished that mission.
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I watched the first two periods in a place with no sound – was the officiating “quality” a topic of discussion on the broadcast at all? I did see BB mouth a “fucking joke” on Hannan’s penalty (I think), but reading those lips was no accomplishment.
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I read the same thing. The inside the glass guy did ask BB about it during one of the stoppages and he said they’re calling a lot of BS that normally doesn’t get called in the playoffs.
LET'S GO CAPS!!!
I know mngt can get into trouble for questioning the calls, but what about players? Thought Nicky’s comment about his penalty (“It wasn’t me…it was the ref’s”) was a bit over the top for him.
"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.
Yeah, his was maybe a soft tap to Prust’s skates, but it was probably the clearest case of tripping all day :-P.
by DrinkingPartner on Apr 18, 2011 9:18 AM EDT up reply actions
I think Ovie getting upended right before his goal was actually a clearer case.
Everything ends badly...otherwise it wouldn't end.
by Davethecapsfan on Apr 18, 2011 3:17 PM EDT up reply actions
Also not good that the refs are getting inside their heads. Was happy to see BB mention it and emphasize the contact with Neuvy in the post-game, but not happy to hear the players complaining about the refs.
That was actually really surprising to me – shows the level of frustration with the officials, really, because Nick’s not one to complain about that kind of thing. I’m not a fan of him talking to the media about it, either, but clearly he thought it was a big enough issue to bring up (and was probably pissed about the call on him).
Sunrise, sunset, swiftly fly the years. One season following another, laden with happiness and tears.
You can bet that McPhee is sending a bunch of tape to the league office after that debacle. And I also would bet the third ref who came in yesterday isn’t calling Wednesday’s game.
Yeah, no way that ref gets Game 4
"If you want money, go to the bank. If you want bread, go to the bakery. If you want goals, go to the net" -Brooks Laich
Frederic L’Ecuyer? He’s probably in for the series…
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by IRockTheRed on Apr 18, 2011 11:40 AM EDT up reply actions
From everything I’ve read about Nicky over the years, he’s not one to complain out loud unless it’s something he strongly feels needs to be said. I think if some other players had said it, it might not have carried as much weight, but he’s one of the top centers in the league, and a leader on the team (even if he’s not as overt). What he says means something. I interpreted it as a bit of strategy.
by redpezrocket on Apr 18, 2011 11:33 AM EDT up reply actions
Hannan’s penalty was a joke. So was the goalie interference call on the Rangers, IMO. Too tight for a playoff game. If you are going to call things that tight, how about calling Prust for the slash on Neuvy during the skate around when Rooney went down?
Just trying to capture the spirit of the thing...
by dcsportsfan1 on Apr 18, 2011 8:47 AM EDT up reply actions
There wasn’t a call on Staal for that bit hit on Green before Ovi scored, either.
by redpezrocket on Apr 18, 2011 9:10 AM EDT up reply actions
Yes, it looked like Staal went for Green’s head. On the recap, someone was complaining about Green laying there and wrecking the play, but I’m fine with the recently concussed guy laying around on the ice after taking a hit to the head.
They’ve been going after Green’s head numerous times and haven’t been called once. That’s why I always laugh when they talk about players needing to show more respect for each other. The Rangers are purposely targeting Green’s head knowing he’s had a serious concussion and the refs are letting them get away with it.
by b.orr4 on Apr 18, 2011 9:21 AM EDT up reply actions 4 recs
the hit on him (but Prust I think) against the boards early in the first was a joke. Prust came in at full speed (fine) after the puck at cleared (fine-ish, its playoff hockey and the caps have done that too) but with his fist out where Green’s head would have been if Green at dodged the check. There is no reason for arms to be straight out on a check.
Hi. I have a message for April LaPine from America`s heartland. Um, socks go on your feet not you`re arm. If God wanted `em on your arms, he would`ve put little finger things on `em or whatever. Alright, that`s all.
by renstar on Apr 18, 2011 9:26 AM EDT up reply actions 2 recs
If the game Wednesday gets out of hand either way, I really wouldn’t mind seeing Erskine obliging Prust and dropping the gloves with him. The guy has clearly been taking lessons from Avery on how to be a first-class dick.
I’m generally not the bloodthirsty type, but if it’s a guy we can afford to have sitting for a few games, I’d be in favor of someone taking a run at Dubinsky or Gaborik.
Don’t try to figure Sasha out. Just ride the wave.
Gaborik’s done a great job of keeping himself out of this series for the most part. But I agree on Dubinsky, along with Prust and Avery. Take some runs at Lundy, too.
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My point is you want to run at a skill player, as they’re doing, not a role player. And definitely get in Henrik’s grill.
Don’t try to figure Sasha out. Just ride the wave.
True, but pounding their tough guy/agittator also sends a message to the guys sitting on the Ranger bench that they could be next. If the guy that’s being paid to do your dirty work gets his lunch handed to him, it makes the skill players a little less secure. That’s schoolyard bully rule #1.
Prust is much more hated by me now. Especially after the cheapshot harassment of Neuvy during the stoppage. No way that should be permitted.
"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 18, 2011 11:04 AM EDT up reply actions 2 recs
Let’s hope they accomplish that mission. Someone worked out the stats to point out that generally, if a team has a 2-0 edge or 3-1 edge in a series, their chances of winning are 80%. With the Caps, it’s been 20%. Why have we been the team that beats the odds in the wrong way?
Rocking the Red for teams on the banks of the Potomac and at the Gateway Arch and Singing the Blues about Hockey.
Remember that we came back from down 0-2 and 1-3 to the Rags in 09, so we aren’t always on the bad end of those situations.
Just trying to capture the spirit of the thing...
by dcsportsfan1 on Apr 18, 2011 8:48 AM EDT up reply actions
F&B, I agree with you completely. Neuvy wasn’t as good yesterday as he was the first two games. That said, the rest of the team wasn’t exactly helping him out, but I think it’s fair to give Varly a chance if Neuvy has a similar game in Game 4. I actually might even go to Varly now for game 4, as long as BB explained that it was more of a rotation so Neuvy didn’t think he was being permanently benched.
After looking at the overhead shot in the fanpost Dimagus made on the goal that was too late to count, I think Neuvy should of had that. True, it deflected off Erskine’s skate but the puck slide right under Neuvy’s glove, and I think might of even touched the glove because it appeared to change course slightly. I think if Neuvy was more on he would of had that.
I wouldn’t go with Varly in game 4. Going with Varly in game 4 only shows to Neuvy and the team that management doesn’t have confidence in goaltending. Even if Bruce tries to deny it, It’s how it looks. He should give Neuvy a chance to build off a loss like that, and to beat the Rangers once and for all.
by redpezrocket on Apr 18, 2011 9:08 AM EDT up reply actions
I guess it depends on how he thinks Neuvy will respond. Recently Neuvy hasn’t always been what I expected. Before the end of the regular season, he was getting the lion’s share of the games and he was playing crappy enough that Varly seemed to be outplaying him in the few games he got. It didn’t exactly give me a lot of confidence in Neuvy going into the playoffs. But he looked good in the first two games, although not tested a lot I thought, so I was thinking maybe he was locked into playoff mode and fine. But maybe I was wrong, if Neuvy really had ice water in his veins, he would of played better last night. He did take a lot of abuse though.
I am not sure the Boudreau needs to give him a chance to redeem himself. Boudreau needs to do whatever will help the team win. I think for most teams, replacing the playoff goalie is a clear statement, but I don’t think it’s like that for the Caps. They’ve got two guys that are fairly equal, so why not use them both? Just tell them it’s a rotation and they need to play their best if they want to keep playing. Maybe the competition will increase of the level of play.
Yeah, getting repeatedly jabbed in the head is pretty egregious and I was really annoyed at the refs for never calling those.
I agree that Bruce needs to play whoever will help the team win, but I don’t think that’s necessarily Varly right now. The Caps have a pretty sordid, recent history of goalie swaps, so a swap at this point is significant for us.
The bottom line (for me) is that the entire team needs to have a better effort.
by redpezrocket on Apr 18, 2011 9:25 AM EDT up reply actions
So you weren’t a fan of Varly replacing Theo in the last two series? If you believe Boudreau, he was going to give Theo some games in the next series after Montreal.
This isn’t peewee hockey. BB should not be concerned with how Neuwirth "feels"if he gets pulled. He’s a professional athlete and if he needs to be coddled in order to play well (which personally I don’t think he does), then he doesn’t have the mental make up needed to subbed on this level in the first place.
Don’t let in soft goals, you won’t get pulled. Do, and accept that you’ll be on the bench and play better the next time you get a chance. That is how professional sports work – no one “deserves” the next start to redeem themselves. Start Varlamov – better goalie, better chance to win. That is also based on anger at Neuvy’s SECOND letting in of a short side goal (Detroit). Don’t care how sick the placement was, you can not ever let that one by you.
I can resist anything, except temptation.
by alisterio on Apr 18, 2011 9:58 AM EDT via mobile up reply actions
Don’t care how sick the placement was, you can not ever let that one by you.
If the bar is set at “not ever” letting in a weak goal, I wouldn’t expect you to be satisfied with pretty much anyone between the pipes.
I am a hockey fan first, and a Caps fan second.
by iwearstripes on Apr 18, 2011 10:23 AM EDT up reply actions
Not at 0-0, in the playoffs. And not when you’re already done the same thing earlier in the year. Yes, I will never ever be happy with a goalie letting in something he should stop.
I can resist anything, except temptation.
by alisterio on Apr 18, 2011 10:27 AM EDT via mobile up reply actions
I find it unfair for fans to praise him for showing such composure and for playing like a veteran, which a lot of people were saying after games 1 and 2, and now say “he’s a rookie, he’s untested and unprepared, he should have gotten these goals.”
Everyone makes mistakes. I’m upset that he let that first goal past him, and there were some things he should have seen, but no one is perfect. Even veterans make these kinds of mistakes.
by redpezrocket on Apr 18, 2011 10:29 AM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
It’s not about feelings or coddling, it’s about acknolwedging that your goalie did not receive the support he should have had and giving him the nod because you know he can win it for you.
by redpezrocket on Apr 18, 2011 10:24 AM EDT up reply actions
That, and it’s not coddling to throw a guy back out there after he makes one or two mistakes. The eventual GWG was mostly Ovi’s fault, do we bench him next game?
Sunrise, sunset, swiftly fly the years. One season following another, laden with happiness and tears.
Nope, trade him. FIRE SALE.
If wishes were horses, we'd all be eating steak.
by Hang a Laingtern on Your Problems on Apr 18, 2011 10:33 AM EDT up reply actions
While I do agree that they go back to Neuvy on Wednesday, I don’t think your Ovie example is the best for the situation because we don’t have a replacement that can play as well or better than Ovie.
by 7-Hole Glove Side on Apr 18, 2011 10:34 AM EDT up reply actions
No, it’s true. Probably a bad example because goaltending is a different animal anyway – but you see my point, if you say “this guy is our number one goalie for now” and then yank him because he made one or two mistakes.
Aside from the fact that it can wreak havoc on his confidence and cause problems if we need to go back to him, this team should be able to overcome one or two soft goals – not that I want them having to on a regular basis, mind you, but goaltending wasn’t the biggest reason why they lost that game.
Sunrise, sunset, swiftly fly the years. One season following another, laden with happiness and tears.
At this point there is no real reason that the Caps need to go to Varly. However, if Neuvy lets in a few "soft" ones on Wednesday I don’t see the danger in going to Varly for game 5 regardless of whether the Caps win or lose.
If the Caps were to switch goalies in Game 5 I think the public might view this as the Caps losing faith in Neuvy and being a blow to his confidence, but I highly doubt that anyone in the Caps organization would see it that way. Varly and Neuvy both know that they are extremely close talent wise and are pretty much interchangeable in the cage; this isn’t like replacing a vet with his backup.
by 7-Hole Glove Side on Apr 18, 2011 10:49 AM EDT up reply actions
I don’t think it’s coddling to put Neuvy back out – and didn’t write that. I’d rather go with Varly just my opinion.
Your second paragraph is what I was addressing. If a goalie gets pulled, and that “wreaks havoc on his confidence”, then he’s probably not mentally tough enough for this level. And neither is the team if they fall apart b/c they have a different goalie.
Not sure why that point can’t be debated without hyperbole and straw men.
I can resist anything, except temptation.
by alisterio on Apr 18, 2011 10:50 AM EDT via mobile up reply actions
alisterio – Correct me if I’m misinterpreting this, but to me it sounds like you wanted to go with Varly from the start and are now pointing to the questionable goals from yesterday to further support this. And I think that is an important disclaimer for you to make, because it clouds your judgment against Neuvy in a less-than-objective way.
That being said, as a former (albeit soccer) goalie, here are my thoughts:
If Neuvy had been flat out awful yesterday, then sure, pull him. If replacing him after a terrible game in a 2-1 series is enough to "wreak havoc on his confidence" and mess with his fragile ego, then he has no place being an elite NHL goalie.
However, I do not believe that either of these are true. Neuvy let in some goals that he should have stopped, but he was by no means terrible. I still believe he’s the best goalie to put in net on Wednesday, and I believe his less than optimal performance yesterday will make him mad and therefore more determined. The reason Neuvy has his Calder success is because of his mental steadiness and determination (which is why I think AHL success for a goalie can very well translate into NHL success…it’s all mental). He’s the kind of goalie who will take those soft goals of yesterday and turn them into fuel for a better game on Wednesday.
That being said, I have no problem with pulling him if he still seems off on Wednesday. But yesterday’s flop was a team effort, and I think it will make him better.
Less drama, more hockey
by SeattleCapsFan on Apr 18, 2011 11:05 AM EDT up reply actions 2 recs
You’re not wrong, but I wasn’t taking issue with his selection or not. Only that wondering if his ego could take his being pulled was any reason not to.
I can resist anything, except temptation.
by alisterio on Apr 18, 2011 4:27 PM EDT via mobile up reply actions
Not sure why that point can’t be debated without hyperbole and straw men.
…it can. I use hyperbole to make a point. And I hate the term “straw men”, so I won’t even address that accusation.
Look., I’m not saying that he necessarily falls apart if he got yanked, nor am I saying the team does. But goalies are mental creatures, and while the spotlight is often brighter on them because their mistakes usually end up as goals, it sends a bad message to yank a guy after just one slightly off game.
I don’t know Neuvy’s mental make-up and I don’t know that of Varly, but confidence seems to be an important part of every player’s game – and many goalies, even ones who have been in the NHL for years. If Neuvy stumbles in Game 4, yes, go to Varly for sure – but after one game, a game in which he got no support and others made mistakes that were almost as much (if not as much) to blame for the goals against? No. Sends the wrong message.
Sunrise, sunset, swiftly fly the years. One season following another, laden with happiness and tears.
As I said above, to play Neuvy on Wednesday because you’re afraid of messing with his confidence or sending the wrong message is a terrible idea. A coach needs to go with whatever goalie will give this team the best chance of coming home with a 3-1 series lead. To let a goalie’s mental stability dictate your strategy is a losing strategy, hands down.
Less drama, more hockey
by SeattleCapsFan on Apr 18, 2011 11:18 AM EDT up reply actions 2 recs
Eh…I think at some point you look at the bigger picture. You go with the guy who gives you the better shot to win the series, not just one game, and if the coaching staff thinks that’s Neuvy than two softies in one game in which the team as a whole kind of sucks shouldn’t change that – and giving him the hook afterwards says “it’s okay if the other guys make mistakes, but you make one or two and you’re clearly not NHL playoff material”. How is that a winning strategy?
If Neuvy had struggled in the first two games and then done this I’d say fuck his confidence, put Varly in – but if the team’s not scoring much and the margin of error is SO thin, and the GWG goes in off your captain, it’s wrong to lay the blame on Neuvy and it can be an issue. Don’t let the mental stuff dictate it but don’t yank him just because you’re not concerned about the confidence factor, either. Neuvy’s shown he has the ability to bounce back from games like this: let him. If he doesn’t, the series isn’t over, you put Varly in.
Sunrise, sunset, swiftly fly the years. One season following another, laden with happiness and tears.
You’re arguing in circles against yourself. “Don’t let the mental stuff dictate”…and yet you just spent the last half hour arguing that the reason not to pull Neuvy for Wednesday is because “it can wreak havoc on his confidence and cause problems”.
I never said put Varly in on Wed, in fact I said the exact opposite. But these guys aren’t kindergartners. If you need to pull a goalie, you should be able to without worrying about hurting his feelings.
Less drama, more hockey
by SeattleCapsFan on Apr 18, 2011 11:30 AM EDT up reply actions
No, I’m not arguing against myself. I’m saying pulling him after one game would be bad for his confidence and unnecessary, but you don’t let a concern over that dictate it if he has another stinker.
I think if you hold him to the standard that he’s not allowed to make ANY mistakes in ONE GAME, it’s a horrible message to send to him and the team. That’s not letting mental stuff dictate it, it’s having unfair and unreasonable standards.
Yes, I think it would wreak havoc on his confidence – he’s not a kindergartener but he’s a guy with pride and competitive drive and any goalie in the NHL would react badly to that kind of treatment. If it becomes an issue that dooms the Caps in the series or even lets the Rangers tie it up, by all means, yank him – then it’s not about one or two mistakes but a pattern of poor play, in which case the mental state of the goalie shouldn’t be an issue. They know when they’re bad for a long stretch; and I’d expect BB to do the same with any of the forwards/D, if such an option is available.
…and I haven’t just spent the last half hour arguing anything. That was 2 minutes.
Sunrise, sunset, swiftly fly the years. One season following another, laden with happiness and tears.
I think this is a unique situation though. It’s not a blow to your confidence when you are being replaced because you played just "o.k." and the guy replacing you is just as talented as you.
I still see no reason to swap Varly and Neuvy though because I think Neuvy has played more than just "o.k."
by 7-Hole Glove Side on Apr 18, 2011 11:49 AM EDT up reply actions
I understand using it to make a point, but jumping from what I said to “bench OV” is more smart ass than stylistically clever. You already admitted that it was a bad example, so why double back and say it was actually your intention. As far as the straw man goes, that wasn’t you. But what would you propose calling the technique of attributing an argument to someone who didn’t use it and then trying to use it against them?
A good manager does take his underlings mental state into account, so I’m probably going a little far in saying it has no bearing but that’s why I’m not any more of a hockey coach than anyone else here. BUT, I watched that goal again today, and man was it bad! Almost looked like Neuvy ducked a little. Wouldn’t be so bad if it wasn’t practically a carbon copy of the Zetterberg? goal.
I can resist anything, except temptation.
by alisterio on Apr 18, 2011 4:45 PM EDT via mobile up reply actions
Actually I find smartass-ness to be very stylistically clever, but that’s just me. And where did I double back and say it was my intention? I was being hyperbolic re: Ovi to prove my point – that benching a guy after one or two mistakes messes with his psyche and is bad coaching.
Never said I didn’t think the goal was a bit soft.
Sunrise, sunset, swiftly fly the years. One season following another, laden with happiness and tears.
Following your comment along the lines of “why not just bench OV…” you then responded to someone else who said it was a bad example:
“Probably a bad example because goaltending is a different animal anyway.” Then came back to me saying how hyperbole was your intention. So, it was your intention to use a bad example for hyperbole.
I understand what you were doing, and I age with you. It was a bad example.
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by alisterio on Apr 18, 2011 7:47 PM EDT via mobile up reply actions
Plus, anger is a tool. Neuvy and Ovi are more upset with the way they played than all of us combined. I want them to use that to their advantage, play with a fiery rage.
by redpezrocket on Apr 18, 2011 10:34 AM EDT up reply actions
Equal parts ovie’s fault, Hannan’s fault, and bad luck in my opinion.
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by Davethecapsfan on Apr 18, 2011 3:20 PM EDT up reply actions
What about that goal Semin had a couple of weeks ago? That was a similar shot — and an amazing placement. Sometimes those pucks just go in, and you tip your cap to the shooter.
Eh…not around here, it’s not. That was a hell of a shot but Neuvy can’t be giving up that space. We said the same thing of Ward when Semin scored his goal a few weeks ago. It was a beautifully placed shot, one that not many guys could make (although I’d bet if Semin and Christensen each tried to make that shot out of 100 shots Semin would get more in) but the goalies can’t be giving that one up, either.
Sunrise, sunset, swiftly fly the years. One season following another, laden with happiness and tears.
Agree 100%. Just because it was a great shot (and it was) does not mean that the goalie shouldn’t have had it.
How about them double negatives.
by _Skullduggery_ on Apr 18, 2011 11:19 AM EDT up reply actions
I hear you but I think goalies play the odds a lot of times. Neuvy was hugging the post so nothing snuck in short side and he was covering the low shot so nothing went five-hole. Going over his shoulder in a space the size of the puck was probably the last place he figured he’d get scored on. Could he have had it? Sure, but I don’t consider it a bad goal. More in the lucky/unfortunate category.
This.
Add to that the Rangers were on the PP, so he would have been thinking pass 99 times out of 100 in that situation.
by 7-Hole Glove Side on Apr 18, 2011 11:25 AM EDT up reply actions
Why would he even need to cover the five hole from that angle? Panger after the goal was mentioning how he thinks goalies nowadays go into H-V too much (and Goalie Guild does too, I think).
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by red army line on Apr 18, 2011 11:27 PM EDT up reply actions
But you’ve just don’t what you say you don’t do around here.
“Hell of a shot, but…”
No buts. It was a hell of a shot and Neuvirth was playing the percentage.
It can be both a good shot and a bad play by the goalie. The two aren’t mutually exclusive. It’s a small area to shoot at so obviously if the shooter hits it, it’s a hell of a shot…but at the same time I’d prefer that small area not be available to the shooter in the first place.
But as I said above, I agree that Neuvy was probably just playing percentages. He made the wrong call and it cost him. Good shot, bad non-save, but not his worst mistake in the game. Whatever. I’d expect him to be better in Game 4.
Sunrise, sunset, swiftly fly the years. One season following another, laden with happiness and tears.
Well I’m going to say that it was completely Neuvys fault and this is after me defending him with much gusto after the pile-on with the Detroit goal which was similar.
He should not be playing a VH when the puck is above the faceoff circle. There is no reason to. He was down in it and waiting. Dumb.
Every NHL player has a good shot. They can hit an open corner like that when they have all day to shoot like they did then since the PK team is giving them time to sit around and play with the puck on what should be a non dangerous position where they have to pass.
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That goal was against Cam Ward, right? I didn’t analyze it, but perhaps he also made a technique error just like Neuvy made on the first goal yesterday? Sure, it was a great shot by Semin, but maybe he only scored because Cam Ward was making some technique error.
by vtcapsfan99 on Apr 18, 2011 11:16 AM EDT up reply actions
Obviously Cam Ward is a shaky rookie – the Canes should have gone with Justin Peters that final game of the regular season; Peters would have gotten them into the playoffs. Can’t be giving up weak goals like that with the season on the line. In fact, I’d be surprised if Ward is back with the Hurricanes next year.
That was my thought too. If the possibility of a shooter making that goal is so rare, wouldn’t it be better for the goalie to position himself to be ready for a more likely possibility than position himself for an extremely difficult shot, leaving him out of position for the alternative? Split second decisions and all that.
"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.
Big difference…Semin had space and was skating in and was actually aiming for that spot…Christensen was at a worse angle, from much further away and just flinging it on net…he may have been thinking to go high, but he wasn’t aiming for a tiny window thinking he could really hit it the way Semin did.
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by Davethecapsfan on Apr 18, 2011 3:21 PM EDT up reply actions
I agree fully. Neuvy played well, considering the team he had in front of him. He needed more support, as all goalies should get, and he didn’t receive it. The only goal I truly blame him for is the first goal. The other two involved heavy lapses in the defense in front of him.
It would be detrimental to the entire team to not give Neuvy game 4. He needs a chance to make them pay for taking swipes to his head. That said, the officiating needs to get better. They need to be putting guys in the box for the shenanigans they were pulling, like hitting Neuvy and Carlson.
by redpezrocket on Apr 18, 2011 8:43 AM EDT up reply actions
Hannan should have taken Dubi, definitely, but Alz was faked out (what are you gonna do?) and Ovie got picked by Fedotenko; It’s amazing he got back to the net that quickly at all.
by DrinkingPartner on Apr 18, 2011 9:17 AM EDT up reply actions
That was amazing…
But what was unearthly is how Ovi, after getting picked dived between two players and swatted the puck mid-air, one-handed, damn near saving the goal. The puck was headed into the far corner and Ovi connected enough to send it back toward the near side of the net, but not enough to reverse the puck’s direction. I was so conflicted about the whole play.
Mad about blown coverage, disbelieving of the wild bounce, confused about the change of direction, crushed by the goal, impressed with Dubi’s determination, and in awe of how Ovechkin found a way to get there and get to the puck. I just sat there stunned even after play resumed.
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watch Dimagus’ overhead replay here http://www.japersrink.com/2011/4/17/2116680/recap-capitals-x-rangers-y#64517189 it was still going in even if Ovie hadn’t touched it
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If Hannan had been a little more focused on playing defense, and less on playing grab-ass with Fedotenko, maybe he remembers to cover his man in that situation.
Matt Hendricks is a honey badger.
Anyone see lineup changes for game 4? I’d like to see Fehr get put in, especially if Laich is going to get sent up to the second line. At this point I’d move Chiimera to the 4th line and put Fehr on the 3rd line to see if he can add a little more offense. Neither Bradley or Hendricks needs to be in the lineup right now, so I’d rotate them until one of them can find a groove. They’ve been trading bad games in the series so far. Sturm hasn’t impressed me either, but he’s still a guy that can play on the 3rd line without being an anchor to the line and theoretically even has the skill set for the second line.
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by Rob Parker on Apr 18, 2011 7:00 AM EDT reply actions 3 recs
So you’d have Fehr, MoJo and Sturm on the 3rd, and Chimera, Gordo and Brads/Hendy on the 4th? I wouldn’t be surprised if that’s what we see Wednesday.
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Yeah, I think I’d like that. The third line has been good when Laich has been there, and Chimera’s speed can help any line, but I just think a little more finish on that third line could do wonders. Hard to know what you’ll get given Fehr’s play this whole season (career?), but it’s a chance I’d take. Maybe Chimera would help our fourth line get out of their own end a little more.
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If Fehr gets in, I think it’s for Bradley. Maybe Hendricks. Chimera is probably safe, and Sturm, even if not scoring, isn’t going to kill you out there b/c he knows what he’s doing defensively.
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Agree. After game 1 I’d have sat Hendricks, after 2 it’d be Bradley, after 3… I don’t care, pick ’em.
I thought Sturm did have a couple nice defensive plays, he’s a smart player and he can skate so he’s going to make the right play. He has offensive upside so if he can just get in a groove he could be much more valuable than Brads/Hendricks. But the way he’s not producing I bet his days in the top 6 are numbered. Still, he and Mackan on a line can give you solid D, some speed, and who knows, they may just chip in a goal or two.
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Mojo was working hard for a goal yesterday. Didn’t get it, but wanted one real bad.
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I was watching the game with my Dad, and I said during it (before the Caps’ first goal) that if the Caps do anything offensively, it will come off the stick of Mackan or Semin.
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by Steckel Me Elmo on Apr 18, 2011 11:30 AM EDT up reply actions
Why not put Fehr on with 44 and 28? Sturm is not producing – Fehr has. Wasnt Fehr skating top line at the WC?
That said, it has been said that F16 is in coach’s doghouse. That is, I’ve read it here. Any actual truth or is that a lot like Neuvy being hated in the locker room?
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by alisterio on Apr 18, 2011 10:04 AM EDT via mobile up reply actions
Sturm is not producing – Fehr has.
Oh? Since Sturm arrived in DC he has a goal and six assists – Fehr has two goals and one assist. Four fewer games for Fehr due to injury, but still.
And Fehr was with MarJo and Chimera at the WC. The top line was the usual top line, , 8-19-22.
Sunrise, sunset, swiftly fly the years. One season following another, laden with happiness and tears.
Want sure about WC…thanks. Guess it was the two goals that made me think that. Was that L3?
Maybe Sturm brings all sorts of d that I dont understand, but he has 0 points (but is + E) so far and so perhaps a change would be good?
I can resist anything, except temptation.
by alisterio on Apr 18, 2011 10:24 AM EDT via mobile up reply actions
Yup, 3rd line.
And he does bring some extra defense. He might not have scored yet but that’s true of most guys in the lineup so far, and if you watch him he’s just rarely out of position. Very smart player, very responsible, and he’s got good speed and the ability to generate scoring chances – even if they don’t go in, it’s time spent in the other team’s zone, you know?
Sunrise, sunset, swiftly fly the years. One season following another, laden with happiness and tears.
Only one on top three lines without one though. So I’m only asking, why not try Fehr – that’s all. Is Fehr not defensively responsible and all the other things Sturm is? Looking for some O…
I can resist anything, except temptation.
by alisterio on Apr 18, 2011 11:00 AM EDT via mobile up reply actions
I don’t think he’s as defensively responsible, no. And frankly if you’re looking for offense you pull out guys who wouldn’t be expected to contribute anyway – a Hendricks, a Bradley, etc. – not a guy who at least is generating scoring chances and has the speed to keep up with the other forwards who are producing.
Sunrise, sunset, swiftly fly the years. One season following another, laden with happiness and tears.
by Becca H on Apr 18, 2011 11:13 AM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
On another note, I’d maybe liked to have seen Hendricks mete out some justice one of the 20 times the Rags ran Neuvy. He’s not in there for his shootout abilities.
by Kolzilla on Apr 18, 2011 7:46 AM EDT via mobile up reply actions 1 recs
Join the club. Hendy had gotten into Roloson’s crease and we started doing better against Tampa Bay. Now if he could do the same vs Lundquist
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by MikeL-Pivonka on Apr 18, 2011 8:47 AM EDT up reply actions
I think the Caps got it into their heads that they needed to stay out of the box, which is a fair point, but not if Hendy sends the Rangers a lesson or it takes one of their guys with him.
by redpezrocket on Apr 18, 2011 8:38 AM EDT up reply actions
On another note, I’d maybe liked to have seen Hendricks, Bradley, Chimera, Laich and Gordon mete out some justice one of the 20 times the Rags ran Neuvy. He’s not in there for his shootout abilities.
Fixed… there were a few names missing other than Hendricks…
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by MikeL-Pivonka on Apr 18, 2011 8:46 AM EDT up reply actions
other than hard checking I’d leave Gordon off that list, don’t want him off the ice if we end up going to the PK
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Who said anything about going on the PK? Avery and Prust didn’t get called for anything, neither should those guys. Although Gordon is a center, so he’s not going to be crashing the net as much as his linemates…
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by MikeL-Pivonka on Apr 18, 2011 9:18 AM EDT up reply actions
Avery and Prust didn’t get called, but if a cap got caught looking at a Ranger funny, off to the box with him!
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It irks me no end how much influence a Ref can have on a game when the Refs are themselves influenced by factors other then what’s happening on the ice. So when I get elected Dictator of the world, NHl refs will have off-season classes in both I/O Psych and the influence of reputation of behavioral interpretation. Hockey is (to my mind) the hardest pro sport to officiate, and so many split-second decisions are made that Refs need to be made more aware how much influence outside factors have on no-time-to-think calls.
And also, the refs will have a big red light implanted in their palm, so I can institute the policy of Carousel.
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Nicely done.
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by Bald Pollack on Apr 18, 2011 11:26 AM EDT up reply actions
I see Brads/Hendricks as redundant. Chimera is easily the best of those 3, IMO.
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The only problem with dropping Brads or Hendricks for Fehr is the PK rotation gets messed up.
Matt Hendricks is a honey badger.
I would suspect WSH was looking to at least split these next two games, and still have an opportunity to do so. While it is true that NYR now has the momentum I think that is dampened a little with the extra day of rest.
Plus it took seven penalties plus a delay of game for the NYR to get a one goal victory.
Not worried.
"Shots aren't the important thing. Scoring chances are way more important than shots." - Bruce Boudreau
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Although the long rest will also be great for Steal and Girardi.
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I’m in the minority when it comes to Staal/Girardi — based on numbers I have seen they are good dmen, not “shutdown” IMO.
"Shots aren't the important thing. Scoring chances are way more important than shots." - Bruce Boudreau
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I should have added: at least not when it comes to Ovechkin line.
"Shots aren't the important thing. Scoring chances are way more important than shots." - Bruce Boudreau
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I also log the Caps scoring chances for 2010-11. The summary spreadsheet is posted on Google Docs.
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Fair point, but as hard as the Rags rely on them the rest has to help even if they aren’t the best pair ever.
I also agree with what J.P. said about our rookies.
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I don’t disagree with the need for rest, but is the effort that much greater that it differs from the Calder Cup? In many ways, 27 and 74 have more experience than folks like 55, 52, and 4 in playing a long stretch of playoff games.
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Should be noted that some of the 2006 Calder Cup guys are here—Green, Schultz, Fehr, Boyd Gordon
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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 18, 2011 9:57 AM EDT up reply actions
2005-06 Calder Cup Champs
- Green, Gordon, Laich, Fehr; Schultz played 7 games; Sloan played 2 games
2006-07 Lost in the finals
- Green, Schultz, Hendricks, Sloan
2008-09 Calder Cup Champs
Neuvirth, Carlson, Beagle, Sloan; Alzner (missed a lot of games during playoffs due to concussion); Collins (played 6 games)
2009-10 Calder Cup Champs
Neuvirth, Alzner, Carlson, Beagle, Collins
ah shoot. I thought he was on the winning team.
Tyler Sloan….luckiest guy to ever lace up skates.
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Hendricks was only with Hershey for the one season. I understand the issues with Sloan at the NHL level, but that’s harsh.
I like Sloan. But he was plucked off a golf course at the end of his ECHL to skate with a powerhouse Hershey team. And no disrespect to him, because he worked hard to make it to the NHL level. But what if? He’s lucky he was the one who got the call that day.
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I know the story :) But to finish the story, he didn’t get a ring for his 2 games…he was released/sent home before the end of the playoffs (IIRC, before the finals started.)
It’ll also be good for Carlson and Alzner, the former of which has looked a bit fatigued, IMO.
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Carlson’s TOI numbers from yesterday look strange to me. 17:47 total, only 17 seconds on PP and only 2:47 on PK. That 17:47 stands out, as he played fewer minutes than that only 3 times all season, if I read his game logs correctly. Green being back and lots of PK time account for it maybe, but maybe also the coaches saw the same thing JP saw and rested him more as a result.
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Experience is important in the postseason, especially for defensemen. They’re leaning harder on Hannan and Green.
by Berube Doobie Doo on Apr 18, 2011 10:59 AM EDT up reply actions
Not to mention that while the Rangers were aiming for Green’s head (and he should work on deflecting hits), he was less likely to retaliate. Carlson, after being hit one too many times, did retaliate. It’s something you learn not to do with experience and age.
by redpezrocket on Apr 18, 2011 11:04 AM EDT up reply actions
I would think that is how Arnott and Knuble are framing it and how I hope the rest of the team see’s it.
They had 7 PP’s and we still outchanced them, it took fluky shot that made 3 deflections to beat us. That was the absolute best they had and they still had to get a lucky bounce and the help of the officials to get the win. If the Caps can play like they have been and just stay out of the penalty box we are ok. I don’t see this team coming out flat on Wednesday, I see they coming out looking for blood.
I don’t recall anyone here thinking we’d sweep. Most thought it would be in 5 or 6, which means we’d lose 1 or 2. I think yesterday’s was a logical one we might lose given NY got back home. We can certainly win there on Wed.
I’ve been wondering how the NHL rotates the officials in the playoff games. There have been some other games (TB and Pitt comes to mind) where there were many penalties. Are there certain refs who seem to call more ticky-tacky things? So much of what they called yesterday was committed with impunity in other games. However, it seems our guys did not adjust, much like I tell my boys in baseball once they see how the ump is calling balls/strikes.
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What we all logically thought: 5 or 6 games
What we all hoped against all logic and sense: Sweep
by redpezrocket on Apr 18, 2011 9:09 AM EDT up reply actions 6 recs
I read somewhere that, at least as of last year, something like 17% of all first round match-ups ended in a sweep in the last 20 years. So given that we were already up 2-0, the percentage must be higher than that. Certainly not farfetched.
11 1st round sweeps of 80 1st round series in the past 10 years.
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The answer is 11, but that’s not what he was really asking.
He was asking how many 2-0 series there were.
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You asked, and I was curious.
Since 2000, there have been 80 first round matches. As reported, 11 were sweeps.
42, which is over half of all series, started 2-0.
That is an amazing stat. Here’s the breakout, with 2-0 series listed first.:
2000: 6 and 2
2001: 5 and 2
2002: 4 and 0
2003: 3 and 1
2004: 5 and 0
2006: 4 and 1
2007: 3 and 1
2008: 5 and 1
2009: 7 and 3
2010: 0 and 0
2011: 4 and no more than 3
This thus reinforces the point that, no matter how much we wanted a sweep, it was always unlikely, even with a 2-0 lead. Data shows that roughly 1 of every 4 series that start 2-0 end in a sweep.
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by STLSpidey on Apr 18, 2011 3:14 PM EDT up reply actions 3 recs
Great job.
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by Chaz-Capapalooza on Apr 18, 2011 3:47 PM EDT up reply actions
I was hoping for a sweep for multiple reasons…
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by DownGoesAvery on Apr 18, 2011 9:43 AM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
Didn’t watch any of the other Sunday games, but PIMs were the name of the game in the Flyers-Sabers game on Sat. A total of 24 Penalties were assessed: 3 each off-setting, 8 for Philly and 10 for Buffalo. They only played 32:31 at even strength. They were calling everything.
"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.
Did you watch the game? While there were a few ticky tack calls, most of the calls in the Flyers-Sabres game were pretty obvious.
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by iwearstripes on Apr 18, 2011 9:34 AM EDT up reply actions
Had it on in the background. It just seemed that every time I looked up, another penalty was assessed. Just seemed odd for playoff hockey.
"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.
One guy for the Rangers yesterday who seemed all over the ice at all the right times was Ruslan Fedotenko. From scoring the goal that wasn’t to being the guy Hannan paid too much attention to on Dubi’s winner to sprawling his body across to break up the Ovie-Sasha 2 on, the guy had a good game. And I have always been rather “meh” on the guy.
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JP – I saw your tweet about panicking. Are you seeing panicking or was that just a pre-emptive tweet.
I certainly didn’t see any panicking here last night and don’t see it this morning.
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I was worried about the panicking. As far as I’m concerned, fair panic might set in if we are blown out on Wednesday.
Nonetheless, I’m holding half-full even if we lose Wednesday.
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I was worried about the panicking.
I had concerns regarding the worry about the panicking.
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by J.P. on Apr 18, 2011 8:16 AM EDT up reply actions 2 recs
So you’re worrying about those who are worrying about the panicking? That’s an extended worry if there ever was one.
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But are you panicking or worried about panicking about whether you might have broken something whilst attempting to decipher the conversation regarding worrying about panicking? And are you worried that others might be worried about the panicking?
by redpezrocket on Apr 18, 2011 9:01 AM EDT up reply actions
I’m panicked that I worried about othersthat were worried about worrying about panicking, now I’m just worried that I’ve got a headache from this.
by Beakers Lab on Apr 18, 2011 9:48 AM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
Sounds like we might be in OTOT territory, and subsequent contributions should be directed over there.
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by Bald Pollack on Apr 18, 2011 9:53 AM EDT up reply actions 2 recs
Anybody else getting the constant updateing on IE (I have no choice but to use IE) – won’t allow me to Z through either.
I'll never put on a life jacket again
Yes. I switched to Firefox – and shame on me for even starting in IE.
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Representing Caps fandom in the Gateway to the West.
Ran into the same thing, once the page came up I clicked the “Stop” icon next to my address bar and you should(emph) be OK.
"My favorite fan base in D.C. Is United's. Period. The end." - Steinberg
by Bald Pollack on Apr 18, 2011 8:20 AM EDT up reply actions
Boudreau's Playoff W-L record based on days off in playoffs
0 Days rest: -1 avg goal diff, 0-2 record
1 day rest: +0.4 avg goal diff, 12-10
2 days rest: -2 goal diff, 0-2
3 days rest: +1 goal diff, 1-0
/smallsamplesize
"Shots aren't the important thing. Scoring chances are way more important than shots." - Bruce Boudreau
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I also log the Caps scoring chances for 2010-11. The summary spreadsheet is posted on Google Docs.
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by NGreenberg on Apr 18, 2011 8:22 AM EDT reply actions 1 recs
So, uh, can we consider Wednesday to be three days?
Don’t try to figure Sasha out. Just ride the wave.
They get all of Monday to rest and most of Tuesday. They’ll have an optional skate today, a full practice tomorrow, then fly to NY tomorrow afternoon. Take a skate on Wednesday. So to me, I think Monday is the only full “day off” the Caps get considering they’ll have to travel on Tuesday.
by redpezrocket on Apr 18, 2011 9:03 AM EDT up reply actions
Having the ability to come back home after the Sunday game really lessens the impact of the two games in NY. I’ve always felt that it can be a real disadvantage in the playoffs when the visiting team has to live in another city for a few days, practice on strange ice and have their practice times dictated by the home team. With this extra day off, the Caps got to sleep in their own beds and follow their normal routines and then just fly back to NYC tomorrow afternoon. To me that really negates the momentum the Rangers may have gained from the win yesterday.
I’d heard (though I can’t back this up) that the Caps were stayed in a hotel between games 1 and 2. So maybe sleeping in their own bed is out.
I am a hockey fan first, and a Caps fan second.
by iwearstripes on Apr 18, 2011 9:45 AM EDT up reply actions
According to Vogs, they’re home. There’s an optional practice this morning at Kettler and full practice tommorow then they fly back to NYC.
The Caps’ plane landed just before 9 pm at Dulles yesterday. Though I don’t know if the Caps were on it.
What do you mean “I don’t know if the Caps were on it.” They had an optional skate at Kettler today.
by redpezrocket on Apr 18, 2011 1:02 PM EDT up reply actions
There have been two back to backs under Boudreau? I thought there was only the one vs PIT.
by Berube Doobie Doo on Apr 18, 2011 11:01 AM EDT up reply actions
04/22/08 Vs PHI
"Shots aren't the important thing. Scoring chances are way more important than shots." - Bruce Boudreau
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
Games 6 and 7 were b2b… I had forgotten that. Thanks.
by Berube Doobie Doo on Apr 18, 2011 11:11 AM EDT up reply actions
one slight worry - Gaborik
Been reading that the Rangers have played their “best,” but to me, their best is only if Gaborik is scoring… and if he gets his mojo back, it could be a problem.
Gaborik may be… ok likely is… playing hurt. In the regular season the guy will miss two weeks due to a bumpy ride in a New York taxi cab. In the playoffs though, he’ll play through injuries. The Caps need to get into his grill and hit him.
Washington Capitals 2009-10 = Quebec Nordiques 1994-95
--- D'ohboy
by MikeL-Pivonka on Apr 18, 2011 8:50 AM EDT up reply actions
I refuse to worry about “ifs.” I could just as easily say “What if Sturm shifts his shots two inches?” or "What if Green learns to avoid checks?
Let’s not go there. Not worth it.
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Representing Caps fandom in the Gateway to the West.
Avery Stick Snapping...
Anyone think the league will take a look at Avery’s stick snap after the icing and tell their officials to be on the look out for that. No doubt if that [Avery]-hole tries it again he’ll get called for delay of game…
Washington Capitals 2009-10 = Quebec Nordiques 1994-95
--- D'ohboy
They won’t, but it should have been called for delay of game.
Don’t try to figure Sasha out. Just ride the wave.
My favorite part of that was the Ranger fans booing, as if they thought Laich hacked at his stick or something – it was blatantly obvious that no one touched him, though.
Sunrise, sunset, swiftly fly the years. One season following another, laden with happiness and tears.
I was in the car listening to the Rangers NY station (1040 am) and one of the announcers (I think it was Don La Greca) jumped all over the refs for not calling the Caps for a slash stating something like “Avery’s stick didn’t self-combust” – the other announcer said he saw the whole thing and that Avery was leaning on his stick and it snapped.
I'll never put on a life jacket again
LaGreca is an idiot. The best part of NHL LIve leaving XM is that I don’t have to listen to him and his NY love-fest any longer.
NHL Live is leaving XM?
Life With Spidey -- a blog about sports, travel, work, family and fun.
Representing Caps fandom in the Gateway to the West.
Ok. Had me scared NHL was leaving XM.
Life With Spidey -- a blog about sports, travel, work, family and fun.
Representing Caps fandom in the Gateway to the West.
God no. If that happened, I’d have to listen to the Junkies and Wise and Danny Radio. It’d be like the Taliban came in and took away modern life as we know it.
Um, doubtful. As much as we know Avery did that just to get the delay, it’s hard to call that. I thought that was a very smart play on his part.
I would not mind seeing some sort of rule which limits the amount of time a player can delay. For example, the linesman would be required to get the replacement stick so the player can’t spend time dicking around at the bench. Or you could say the player isn’t allowed to replace his stick once the linesman has blown his whistle for the faceoff.
Just trying to capture the spirit of the thing...
by dcsportsfan1 on Apr 18, 2011 8:56 AM EDT up reply actions
actually it would have been really easy, because Avery claimed he got the wrong stick and tried to go back to the bench one more time. The refs should have let him, and then lead him directly to the sin bin afterward
Hi. I have a message for April LaPine from America`s heartland. Um, socks go on your feet not you`re arm. If God wanted `em on your arms, he would`ve put little finger things on `em or whatever. Alright, that`s all.
by renstar on Apr 18, 2011 9:20 AM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
They won’t look into Avery but they should fine Prust for the bump on Neuvirth when they were changing sides during the delay. The league has clear rules about player contact during warmups and it should apply there as well.
by b.orr4 on Apr 18, 2011 9:18 AM EDT up reply actions 6 recs
Agreed. How the refs did nothing but pull Prust away halfheartedly I have no idea
"If you want money, go to the bank. If you want bread, go to the bakery. If you want goals, go to the net" -Brooks Laich
spineless, too. Probably have yellow bellies as well.
Pledge Drive 2010-2011: SO KIDS CAN!! Help build a playground
As we said yesterday, what good is it to keep issuing warnings if you’re not going to issue punishment, what good are the threats?
Don’t try to figure Sasha out. Just ride the wave.
I feel like snapping a stick happens sometimes, but he really really pushed into that and I believe it was intended. Even if it wasn’t, I’m not sure delay of game needs to be called, I’d be happy with saying a player just isn’t allowed to leave the circle to replace the stick until the puck is dropped, so he has to play with no stick, as if it happened during active play.
by feeya7 on Apr 18, 2011 9:25 AM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
I think that’s a very hard delay-of-game call to make. We all think he intentionally broke it (as did the NBC commentators), but that’s a very hard call to make. I give the linesman credit for not allowing Avery to skate away with a stick and then change his mind.
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Representing Caps fandom in the Gateway to the West.
I think the rule of thumb is: If anyone else had done it, would you give them the benefit of a doubt that it was just an accident? Avery is Avery. It was intentional.
by redpezrocket on Apr 18, 2011 9:56 AM EDT up reply actions
Of course it was. But what if on the next shift Ovi leans too hard on HIS stick and it snaps? I wouldn’t want him penalized just because someone else did it intentionally – it sucks but it’s gamesmanship, just like Neuvirth taking forever to put his helmet back on last game (?), things like that.
The bottom line is, you can’t penalize it because there are times when it isn’t intentional.
Sunrise, sunset, swiftly fly the years. One season following another, laden with happiness and tears.
by Becca H on Apr 18, 2011 10:00 AM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
Like the puck-over-glass DOG?
"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 18, 2011 1:25 PM EDT up reply actions
Eff that STUPID ASS RULE.
…yes, like that :P
Sunrise, sunset, swiftly fly the years. One season following another, laden with happiness and tears.
I love that rule.
Defensemen used to put the puck over the glass all the time when their team was hemmed in. The same with pucks being tied up at the boards. The refs used to be so quick to call the play dead instead of have players try and work out of the scrum.
I’d love to see a variation on the rule that provides some leeway on the call. Something along the lines that if an opposing player isn’t within ten feet of a player who shoots the puck out of the rink, they can waive off the penalty. How many times have we’ve seen a guy with no pressure just catch the puck on edge and send it into the stands? In fact, didn’t we just see it yesterday?
Then you get into a mess of them trying to estimate whether the player was actually within 10 feet…
I don’t think we’ll see the rule changed. Players just need to take an extra .2 seconds to think about the fact that they could be putting a puck over the glass.
I am a hockey fan first, and a Caps fan second.
by iwearstripes on Apr 18, 2011 2:02 PM EDT up reply actions
They don’t have .2 seconds to think about that. If they did, no one would do it – they don’t want to take the penalty.
I’ve said it before, I’ll say it again. It should be like ICING. The only reason guys did it on purpose before was to relieve pressure in their own zone – therefore, if you take that option away from them, you eliminate their ability to relieve said pressure (and in fact force them to take another faceoff in their zone with tired bodies, which happens w/ the penalty anyway), while giving the guys who do it accidentally the benefit of the doubt.
Sunrise, sunset, swiftly fly the years. One season following another, laden with happiness and tears.
by Becca H on Apr 18, 2011 2:08 PM EDT up reply actions 2 recs
For one, I agree it should be treated like icing, but that gets no traction with the NHL (though I can’t understand why).
In this particular case, Knuble had the time to slow down a bit and make a better play. He might not have known that he had the time, if that’s the case, the guys on the ice with him and guys on the bench need to communicate that to him.
“You got time old man, got time” would have saved us from a 5 v 3.
I am a hockey fan first, and a Caps fan second.
by iwearstripes on Apr 18, 2011 2:47 PM EDT up reply actions
If only we could’ve taken a little bit of momentum from killing that 5v3 and maybe turned it into something…
by Berube Doobie Doo on Apr 18, 2011 2:54 PM EDT up reply actions
This.
I’ll admit that after we killed that penalty I was sure the Caps would win, maybe by 2+ goals.
"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."
Other than a goal, nothing swings momentum like killing a 5v3. It was pretty late in the 1st period, I think, but still…
by Berube Doobie Doo on Apr 18, 2011 3:00 PM EDT up reply actions
I’m not sure the NHL has an issue with it being a judgment call, I think they saw an easy way to increase the number of penalties called, and hopefully increase scoring (by extension).
How many of these are actually intentional? 5%?
There may be something to the argument that it limits the number of pucks going out of play where there is no netting, which might reduce injuries to fans.
In any case, I have a hard time following their logic on this one.
I am a hockey fan first, and a Caps fan second.
by iwearstripes on Apr 18, 2011 2:50 PM EDT up reply actions
I don’t think there are any intentional puck-over-glass penalties anymore. No player is going to decide to do that, knowing it’s an automatic 2 minutes.
by Berube Doobie Doo on Apr 18, 2011 2:55 PM EDT up reply actions
It should be automatic delay of game if you snap your own stick immediately following an icing.
by Berube Doobie Doo on Apr 18, 2011 11:03 AM EDT up reply actions
Not to defend Aevry, but I’ve seen Ovie do the same thing. Sometimes if a player thinks there’s a crack in his stick he’ll lean on it to see if it breaks before the faceoff instead of during play.
Agreed. It’s not like this is something Avery brilliantly came up with. Locker called it a veteran move, and it kind of is. Taking advantage of the rules. But it’s a loophole that ought to be closed.
by Berube Doobie Doo on Apr 18, 2011 11:14 AM EDT up reply actions
How? Some serious line-drawing problems there.
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There’s a cost for icing the puck when you’re gassed. They recently took away TV timeouts following icings. This should reinforce the concept.
If you think you have a weakened stick, replace it quickly between the whistle and the faceoff.
by Berube Doobie Doo on Apr 18, 2011 11:18 AM EDT up reply actions
Eh, players will still try to abuse it. And if a stick happens to break you have to let them replace it. Sometimes it’s honest, and guys like Avery will exploit that. I don’t see much that can be done.
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Agreed, you can’t call a penalty for it, but they can institute a rule that forces the coach to substitute for him if he breaks his stick on purpose.
but they can institute a rule that forces the coach to substitute for him if he breaks his stick on purpose.
I could definitely see more players “leaning” on their sticks after an icing call then.
by Yoshietree on Apr 18, 2011 11:29 AM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
And if it becomes really obvious, they can call a penalty for delay of game. Those sticks break, but they don’t break that easily. If a guy is laboring to snap his stick, they’ll kick him out.
if it becomes really obvious
Sure seemed obvious yesterday.
by Berube Doobie Doo on Apr 18, 2011 11:35 AM EDT up reply actions
It was. I think it’s safe to say you can get away with it once or twice in a series. Anything more and it will become obvious and the Refs will start to dish out delay of game or unsportsmanlike conduct penalties.
by 7-Hole Glove Side on Apr 18, 2011 11:38 AM EDT up reply actions
Easy solution: if a stick breaks, drop it and go get a new one (or don’t) like you would in game play. But know that the refs won’t hold up the puck drop for you to do that. In other words, your team would lose a player in the circle.
"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.
Doesn’t work. All players need to be on the right side of the puck when it drops.
by Berube Doobie Doo on Apr 18, 2011 2:41 PM EDT up reply actions
Bad solution. That could be used to get a forward behind the defense for a breakaway.
Matt Bradley: He has sensitive skin, no?
Why not just force the guy to play without a stick? It sucks, but not too different from delay of game—unintentional or not, you’re penalized.
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by red army line on Apr 18, 2011 11:31 PM EDT up reply actions
I don’t think the line-drawing is all that difficult. There are only a few instances where a player even has the motivation to delay the faceoff. In these situations, with clowns like Avery doing the breaking, followed by a leisurely stroll to the bench, followed by a faux-misup at the bench over what stick to grab, followed by an attempt to go back for another stick…..there’s enough clues in there to warrant the call.
Way too subjective. We can all be certain of Avery’s intent based on the numerous slo-mo reviews NBC showed us. The refs probably didn’t even see his stick break, as they were focused on setting up the face off.
Less drama, more hockey
by SeattleCapsFan on Apr 18, 2011 11:22 AM EDT up reply actions
But players routinely check their sticks before a draw, some break. Hard to say which is intentional and which isn’t.
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Do sticks break all that often before a draw? I don’t think I saw it in a single Caps game this year but obviously memory can be faulty.
But not commonly, and maybe never after icing.
by Berube Doobie Doo on Apr 18, 2011 11:36 AM EDT up reply actions
It happens enough that there shouldn’t be an assumption of foul play.
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Sure, it definitely happens…not so much that I’d say it happens on a semi-regular basis, but it definitely happens. However, talking specifically about icing face-offs…well I’d guess it’s a small percentage of the overall number. While I"m not on board for this being a penalty, the middle ground might be having a linesman retrieve a new stick for the player in lieu of having the player take his sweet time going to the bench and coming back.
And how much of those other circumstances did the refs see? Do you want to add yet another incredibly subjective arrow to the refs’ quiver?
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The rule shouldn’t be a delay of game… the rule is that once the linesman is ready to drop the puck, your stick is your stick. Snap it and you don’t get to skate over and get another one. You drop it and play wihtout until you can get to the bench to replace it.
Washington Capitals 2009-10 = Quebec Nordiques 1994-95
--- D'ohboy
by MikeL-Pivonka on Apr 18, 2011 3:42 PM EDT up reply actions 4 recs
I like this idea for the rule.
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 18, 2011 3:44 PM EDT up reply actions
Caps only have scored the first goal in one game.
How crucial will be getting a 1-0 lead in Game 4? I think it’s just a smidge short of essential.
I’d have to agree. I think its time for the Caps to win a game 5-1 (or something). Simply come out and act like the #1 seed beating a #8 seed flat out. No more coming down to the wire, one-goal games. Its time to score a few goals.
by feeya7 on Apr 18, 2011 9:38 AM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
Welcome to the playoffs…
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by DownGoesAvery on Apr 18, 2011 9:45 AM EDT up reply actions
I feel you, but just as no Cup winning team has gone to game 7 in their first round the past ten years, each of the past three Cup teams have put up a few solid, high scoring wins over their first round opponent (games like 3-0, 5-3, 4-1).
Well, I could bring up one very lopsided game 7 from a couple years ago at Verizon Center…as well as one at the Mellon Arena last year. Both in the 2nd round, just a side-note.
DownGoesAvery. Check out the hockey blog that's shaking the world: Down Goes Avery and on Twitter (@DownGoesAvery ).
by DownGoesAvery on Apr 18, 2011 1:36 PM EDT up reply actions
This is my concern, but they’ve only done that once since the losing steak against a quality team iirc: Tampa. Otherwise everything has been nail or close to nail biter.
They need to put the beatdown on these guys who, despite not paying very well and squeaking out a one-goal victory even with tilted ice and lucky bounces, are very much in this series and have scored for goals to our six.
Keep reading that we are the better team – time to show it.
I can resist anything, except temptation.
by alisterio on Apr 18, 2011 10:15 AM EDT via mobile up reply actions
I think that DJ King is a viable option for game 4. He plays hard, hits hard, and most importantly, is expendable to throw the body around a bit without Fehr. I mean fear. If anything, we need a guy that isn’t afraid to murder somebody if they get too comfy in the crease. King’s the man for that. Plus it’d be real nice to hear the commentators say “We have a new King in the building!” or something to that effect, assuming he makes a big play at some point in the game.
"I couldn't bring myself to cheer for Pittsburgh. But since they won, I may as well use it."
--BB, 2009
no. just no. DJ King has no business being on the ice in game 4. He’s the worst forward on the team.
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by RedBirdie on Apr 18, 2011 10:11 AM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
I knew I’d face this kind of resistance. LOL
"I couldn't bring myself to cheer for Pittsburgh. But since they won, I may as well use it."
--BB, 2009
by nogoodtrying on Apr 18, 2011 10:11 AM EDT up reply actions
You’d have an easier time selling that for a home game. On the road, Torts is just going to use Gaborik and Dubinsky, and they’ll murder that line. Having one guy stand around supposedly playing defense, but not really, is even worse than a PK situation (I’d think).
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by red army line on Apr 18, 2011 10:13 AM EDT up reply actions
If anything, we need a guy that isn’t afraid to murder somebody if they get too comfy in the crease. King’s the man for that.
I haven’t seen this from King. He’s usually on the ice for unproductive few minutes, fights the other team’s goon for just about no reason to get some energy going and then is banished to the bench held in reserve.
Hendricks is way better suited for what you are saying than King, IMO
"Shots aren't the important thing. Scoring chances are way more important than shots." - Bruce Boudreau
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
by NGreenberg on Apr 18, 2011 10:14 AM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
True. I recant.
"I couldn't bring myself to cheer for Pittsburgh. But since they won, I may as well use it."
--BB, 2009
by nogoodtrying on Apr 18, 2011 10:16 AM EDT up reply actions
If we still had Brashear, then maybe.
by Berube Doobie Doo on Apr 18, 2011 11:06 AM EDT up reply actions
The Rangers outworked and outhustled the Caps and they deserved that game. That said, what is going on with the officiating in the East? It seems like they are calling it really tight in a lot of the games in th East but I was watching the Anahiem game and there was so much clutching/grabbing and questionable hits that were going uncalled. Not like this is earth shattering or anything, but the inconsistency of NHL officiating is nuts.
by _Skullduggery_ on Apr 18, 2011 10:13 AM EDT reply actions
FYI, Versus has picked up Game 5 of ANA/NSH for those without CI and wishing to watch some of the series.
"Nothing." - Tuukka Rask, after being asked what he saw on Shea Weber's game winner in overtime.
Awesome. Been a great series, I highly recommend it for everyone.
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yeah
It’s definitely been the Preds’ most entertaining series ever from my perspective. Little of everything.
"Nothing." - Tuukka Rask, after being asked what he saw on Shea Weber's game winner in overtime.
by Chris Burton on Apr 18, 2011 11:38 AM EDT up reply actions
Sweet. Definitely been an awesome series. I stand behind my prediction of Nashville taking out Anaheim. Loving the Kings-Anaheim series as well.
Same Old Sith. CAPS desperately need the help of The Force soon... http://tinyurl.com/OuttaTheWayDad-GotSomeSithToDo
by Christoph J on Apr 18, 2011 11:22 AM EDT up reply actions
If this has been brought up ad nauseum this morning already, apologies.
Anyways I haven’t followed this particular hockey blog much, but I found a curious read over at PuckUpdate this morning on the Capitals’ need for OV to find offense in transition. Any else read it? There are a few few salient arguments, but on the whole I disagree with the notion that “no one, including Ovechkin, is thinking offense.”
It is pointed out is that the various defensively bent Cup-winning Devils teams “were capable of moments of incredible offense” followed by an argument that “Boudreau’s system doesn’t leave room for those moments” for this edition of the Capitals squad. To a certain degree I think that is a fair enough observation, I suppose. That the “Capitals aren’t playing defensively so much as they’re playing in an intellectually lazy manner.” seems off-base to me though.
I find the transition play of the Capitals could improve a little, but I think what the PuckUpdate author forgets is that these are the Rangers the Capitals are playing and this Rangers team isn’t exactly one aiming to trade scoring chances coming off of the transition with the Capitals. No one wants to get in a run and gun game with the Caps aside from the Lightning, perhaps.
To those that expect and believe the Caps need to be winning playoff games by a margin of 3-0, 3-1, 4-2 in order to succeed just because of their offensive talent level miss the fact that in the playoffs it doesn’t matter how you win or by how big a margin you win.
I’ll just take the W. That’s all I care about. My two cents for what its worth this morning.
Same Old Sith. CAPS desperately need the help of The Force soon... http://tinyurl.com/OuttaTheWayDad-GotSomeSithToDo
I disagree with you about “its doesn’t matter how you win or by how big a margin”. Looking at the past few seasons’ Cup winners, most of them have played at a moderately consistent level across each round of the playoffs. Thus, they’ve won games in the first round by large margins (not all, obviously) because they were playing at “their level” and their first round opponent was playing at theirs.
The Caps need to play like a #1 seed, and they need to come out and beat, solidly and without question, the #8 seed. The ’Nucks have, and Detroits scored 4 goals in both games so far. You can bet that if Crosby and Malkin were playing, Pitt would be doing the same thing.
We know the Caps have a history of playing down to their opponents, and I’m not going as far as to say they are now, but if they don’t show us they are truly superior to the Rags in the next couple games, then yes, they are playing down.
the Canucks are playing Chicago, a team that isn’t exactly buckling down on defense. Remember when the Hawks came to DC last month? Everyone knows the best way to shut down the Caps, and yet the Hawks allowed that game to be run-and-gun hockey.
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If anything, that proves my point. The Hawks are playing like an 8 seed, and the ‘Nucks are taking advantage of that and pwning them. Hence 3-0 in the series, no overtimes, and have only trailed once in a single game for about 20 minutes, then took the lead for there. They’ve had a 2-goal lead for most of the series time as well.
but not all 8 seeds are created equally. If the Caps were playing the Blackhawks and the Canucks got the Rangers, I think you’d see these games go a little bit differently.
Pledge Drive 2010-2011: SO KIDS CAN!! Help build a playground
I don’t agree. Sure, they both backed into the playoffs with other team’s loses. Sure they both finished with 44 wins. But the Hawks played in the more difficult west, finished with more points and the Rangers are missing their top-line center, and their best player (Gabby) has yet to record a single point. I cannot get on board that the Hawks are a “worse” team than the Rags (sure, defensively less responsible, but then thats balanced by less offense, hence we should still win).
In the “more difficult West”? How do you figure? Just because of Vancouver? What a broad generalization.
"I couldn't bring myself to cheer for Pittsburgh. But since they won, I may as well use it."
--BB, 2009
by nogoodtrying on Apr 18, 2011 10:55 AM EDT up reply actions
Plus “their best player has yet to record a single point” falls under failing as a team, not under an acceptable loss.
"I couldn't bring myself to cheer for Pittsburgh. But since they won, I may as well use it."
--BB, 2009
by nogoodtrying on Apr 18, 2011 10:56 AM EDT up reply actions
Edmonton is worst in the league, then three East teams are 27-29. The best four teams in the league (if you ask me) are in the West, as well. No brainer for me. It was close with Crosby in and when Philly was playing well.
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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 18, 2011 11:33 PM EDT up reply actions
Hawks are a different team than the Rangers, not necessarily a “worse” team. A team that plays a style more conductive to the opponent scoring, and in particular, Chicago plays a style to allows the Capitals to exploit their own strengths.
Pledge Drive 2010-2011: SO KIDS CAN!! Help build a playground
I agree with you. I don’t expect us to score 4+ goals multiple times against the Rags. But what I do expect, is that somewhere in this 7-game series we should have our way with the Rangers, and let our strengths shine through. Show that we are capable of playing OUR game, no matter the strengths of the other guy.
I want to clarify, I’m not panicking, its only 3 games in, and we’re winning. I just want to be “convinced” that we are capable of coming out and doing our thing. You can’t win a Cup unless you can.
I think the caps to score more than 2 goals per game if they want to win.
by Berube Doobie Doo on Apr 18, 2011 11:12 AM EDT up reply actions
Thus, they’ve won games in the first round by large margins (not all, obviously) because they were playing at "their level" and their first round opponent was playing at theirs.
The thing about this is, based on what got the caps to the top of the eastern conference, playing at “their level” is winning games 2-1, not 4-1. When the caps are playing their game and playing at their level, it involves limiting the other team to 1 or 2 goals, not scoring 4 or 5.
I understand this, we’re clearly not the team we were last year who won the east by winning games with 5+ goals. What I’m saying is that the Caps MUST score more than 2 G/G on occasion, because you can bet even offensively challenged teams are going to break through our “1 or 2” goal defense sooner or later. Hence game 3 (and, like the point I made above, they did it without their top line center, or Gabby recording a point). If we were without Nicky, and Ovie was held scoreless, we’d have 1 goal in this series (please, I know its apples to oranges here, but I think you understand my point).
My point is a W is a W.
The Rangers are no exception in that they’re missing a few of their own (e.g. Callahan, Boogerd, etc.) Not to compare them to Malkin and Crosby, but the Rangers are a much more dangerous team with difference makers like Callahan. All teams playing in the post season now are in because they deserve to be. So the Rangers are the #8 seed and the Caps are the #1 seed? So what? That doesn’t take away from the Rangers being a good team, if not as dangerous a team as there is in the EC. The Caps being the #1 seed is just as much a consequence of Philly falling apart and Boston/MTL not keeping pace.
Did it matter Montreal was a #8 seed? How about when the Sharks were the #1 seed in previous years? This is the NHL, not the NBA where first round match ups are a mere formality for the higher seeded teams.
Same Old Sith. CAPS desperately need the help of The Force soon... http://tinyurl.com/OuttaTheWayDad-GotSomeSithToDo
by Christoph J on Apr 18, 2011 11:45 AM EDT up reply actions
Disagree 10 thousand percent. Seeding matters. The only non-top 4 team to win a Cup since 1994 was NJD at 5 seed in 1995. In that span only 2 4-seeds won and 1 3-seed. Of 32 teams making it to the finals in that span, only 7 have ever been non-top 4. An 8 seed has made it once. Yes, it mattered that MTL was an 8 seed. It mattered that Philly was a 7 seed. The Hawks took care of them, why didn’t we?
You can play those numbers the opposite way too. Four of the last ten Presidents’ trophy winners haven’t made it out of the first round. Fifteen of the 32 #2 seeds (under the current format) didn’t make it out of the first round.
That doesn’t disprove my point at all. In fact, it enhances it. Clearly not all top-4 teams are “truly” top-4 teams, or at least, they aren’t 4/7ths better than a bottom 4 team. What it DOES prove, is that of the 8 top 4 teams across the conferences, at least 1 (more often than not, several) of them is truly deserving of their top 4 spot and “best in the league”. At the beginning of the playoffs, we don’t know which top-4 team(s) that is, but we find out in June.
What does this mean for the Caps? Well, I’d like them to be that top-4 team that is where they “should” be.
10 thousand percent. 1 percent. 87 percent. Whatever. We can agree to disagree. That said, never did I disagree with the notion that seeding matters at all. And if I somehow I came across as implying that to you, I was not clear enough then.
The difference between seeds 1-4 isn’t that big. I’d argue you can swap any of them around. Montreal a #8 seed, knocked out two Stanley Cup contenders. In a row. Do you think the seeding mattered to them? Philly made it to the Cup finals. Think it mattered to the opponents that they took down what seed they were? You can argue that Montreal lost to Philly because Philly was the higher seed, but you can’t discount the fact that Montreal having played two straight 7 game series prior to the EC championship factored into the result.
The Hawks took care of the Philly. Why didn’t Pittsburgh take care of MTL? When it comes to the playoffs, kiss the regular season good bye as it’s a different animal. You know this. Match-ups become all the more important. How well a team adjusts accordingly from game to game is important. The tango that is a playoff series is not unlike chess. Recall that many anticipated that MTL out of all teams in the east would give the Caps the most trouble. There’s a reason why, out of all teams in EC, going into the playoffs the Rangers were the team most anticipated would give the Caps trouble.
Btw, I’m not discounting the stats that you put forth with regards to top-4 seeds winning the Cup. Just curious, why stop at 1994?
Same Old Sith. CAPS desperately need the help of The Force soon... http://tinyurl.com/OuttaTheWayDad-GotSomeSithToDo
I stopped at ’94 out of sheer laziness of doing more research :p
Yes, MTL was spent by the time they reached Philly, but hey, Philly just 7-gamed it with Boston and had to win 4-straight to do it, I’m sure that emotional roller coaster had to deplete them. Anywho, ultimately Cup winning teams don’t “survive” games and series, they win them. I understand what you mean when you say that MTL didn’t care that they were the 8th seed, they went in and did their best. Absolutely. But ultimately the Hawks were higher seeded and played the finals in the way they got them that higher seed all year long. Philly played like what got them a 7th seed (actually, prolly played a lot better).
Just because you are a #1 seed doesn’t mean you will play like a #1 seed. Same with #8. But the teams who play like they are the seeds they earned, bring home the Cup. Its time for the Caps to show why they are a #1 seed, and more importantly, why they are going to bring home the Cup.
The Rags are playing the game the only way they know they can win: check tight, hit like mad, and never get caught up ice, both forwards and D. Torts is playing his cards right, and he is a great playoff coach.
Does anyone think that Bruce is giving the Rags too much respect? That is not to say that he should unleash the offense more, but for God’s sake, to get outshot that badly? He wants them to take no risk, and I can’t blame him in part. But I feel that he needs to amp up the attack a bit more. I am seeing Green and Carlson step into the play a few times yesterday – I think our boys need to attack. Bruce is VERY uptight. Again, I can’t blame him for that either.
Anyone sensing that?
I hear what you’re saying, it’s just tough to win the possession and shot advantage when you’re killing penalties the whole time. For all intents and purposes, the second period was a lost period for the Caps because by the time they could get back into the flow of the game there were three minutes left.
Torts ain’t that good. One game north of .500 including the 2004 Cup.
The Rangers were better yesterday, but I didn’t see balls-to-the-wall fire in a must-win. I think Tortorella and Boudreau both said that NYR essentially played the same game they played in Games 1 & 2, and I’d be hard pressed to disagree.
As for too much respect, I can kinda see it. Maybe the Caps sat back a little expecting more out of the gate from the Rangers…I don’t know. If so, I would have expected them to adjust better in the second, but it never came. The Caps just weren’t fully engaged yesterday.
Maybe, But it appeared to me that after each Ranger’s goal, the Caps just decided to score and they did. You could feel that the “next goal” each time, was ours. Was feeling that again at the end, but 99 seconds isn’t much time. If that’s the case, I’d certainly like to see them do it to start a game.
Then again, I’m a homer, so maybe it was just me.
Occasionally wrong, never uncertain.
In case you’re not reading the So Kids Can updates (and why not?), Mike Green’s quiet but effective playoffs has pushed us past the $1,400 in pledges!
Pledge Drive 2010-2011: SO KIDS CAN!! Help build a playground
Becca, FYI, I need you to verify how much Mr. Tortarella’s donation is :)
Pledge Drive 2010-2011: SO KIDS CAN!! Help build a playground
Oh! It was $45 but I just went ahead and donated it myself through the Caps’ site…sorry, forgot about this drive :(
Sunrise, sunset, swiftly fly the years. One season following another, laden with happiness and tears.
that’s ok! Just wanted to check with you before I added it. I’m still going to put it on the list and mark it as already donated.
Pledge Drive 2010-2011: SO KIDS CAN!! Help build a playground
Torts is playing his cards right, and he is a great playoff coach.
Really? Since his Cup winning season (where he was a great coach), he has gone 7-14 in the playoffs and been eliminated in the first round every time. And I know the argument will be that he didn’t have great teams, but in ‘05-’06 he had basically the same nucleus in Tampa that had won the Cup two years before. And a lot of good coaches have taken teams with less talent to at least the second round. I know a lot of folks around here would love to have Torts coaching here, but to me his tough guy routine makes him seem a lot better that he actually is.
Ahh, the Pittsburgh ‘but we got a Cup" argument. Actually, using that line of thinking works out well. Tortorella won his Cup in his fourth season. Boudreau, coincidentally, is finishing his fourth season. And Torts was sub-.500 in the playoffs before he won it all. Boudreau is sub-.500 going into this year’s playoffs.
by b.orr4 on Apr 18, 2011 11:43 AM EDT up reply actions 2 recs
Not sure where the slight about the Pens plays into this, other than to say that I’m stupid….
if you’re going to argue that someone is a bad playoff coach, it has to be noted that they have had significant success in the playoffs. You can’t ignore that data point.
It’s what Pens fans always say when anybody compares Ovechkin to Crosby. I wasn’t implying you were stupid just that the Cup argument is often used as a trump card to end the conversation. And, if you read my post closely you’d see that I did say that Torts did a great job when Tampa won the Cup. Its just that since then he hasn’t been a very good playoff coach. The more important point I was trying to make is that Tortorella was at the very same point in his career that Bruce is now when he won the Cup in ’04. So there is hope.
And I was unclear too. I meant it less as “This is a trump card” and more as "It’s a variable that cannot be ignored.
It’s also a different scenario- Ovechkin v. Crosby is a debate over who is the best player in the sport, this is just assessing the merits of one coach. I do not think winning a cup is a deciding factor as far as which player is better, but i think it has to be noted for a coach. (I will agree though that it doesn’t mean everything- take Mike Shanahan for example- just because he won a ring means he’s the best playoff coach ever)
I see your point though and hope that Boudreau can rise to the level of a Stanley Cup Winning coach.
None of our forwards get to visit their crease without at least a cross check to the back. Our defense is not returning the favor. We simply were not playing playoff hockey in game 3.
by _Skullduggery_ on Apr 18, 2011 10:39 AM EDT reply actions
I am very new to watching hockey so intently, but I noticed exactly this, and was wondering why? Are players allowed to cross check opponents when they are in the “crease”? If so, why aren’t our defense doing a better job of kicking them out of that area? If not, why are the Rangers able to clear out our guys and not take any penalties? It seemed very lopsided in that area (although it didn’t seem like our guys even got to their crease very often….)
technically, no. Cross checking is cross checking and it’s a penalty. But lots of cross checks go uncalled, even blatant ones.
Pledge Drive 2010-2011: SO KIDS CAN!! Help build a playground
Several things happened during that game:
The Caps were whistled on a few very soft calls
The Rangers weren’t whistled on a few egregious and repeated penalties
As soon as the Rangers came to realize that the refs weren’t going to do anything about the cross-checking, it was open season. The Caps, knowing that the refs were watching so closely, would have immediately gotten the whistle for a ny kind of retaliatory cross-checking.
RedBirdie is exactly right. Cross-checking is a penalty. In this particular game, with the penalties tilted toward the Caps, I am glad that they (mostly) avoided retaliation in the same manner.
by redpezrocket on Apr 18, 2011 11:01 AM EDT up reply actions
AO’s hooking call was especially maddening.
"And as it’s my personal opinion, I’d appreciate not being told it’s stupid, thanks." - BeccaH
I’m partial to the sequence from about 7:35-7:10 in the third where first Boyle gives Hannan a nice bear hug and face wash after the whistle, and then Mike Green stick checks Prust who responds by flying skates-first into Neuvirth.
Atta dinnin stick a who!
by Gould Old Days on Apr 18, 2011 11:20 AM EDT up reply actions
I dunno… I think the refs still would let that go. I think it’s more about the type of penalty rather than who is doing it. As I mentioned earlier, out West they seem to be allowing a lot of clutching & grabbing. Crosschecks to the back in the crease seem to universally be allowed in the playoffs. Up until yesterday ticky/tacky hooking was being allowed, and that’s the only thing that really changed, they started calling those tight.
by _Skullduggery_ on Apr 18, 2011 11:14 AM EDT up reply actions
Probably the worst thing a ref or umpire can do is impact the game. I hate using them as excuses for the loss, especially since the team looked passive early, and had a chance to win this game. However, yesterday’s officiating was horribly inconsistent and affected the game entirely. If the refs want to call a tight game, then call a tight game. On Boyle’s trip of Ovechkin, the camera pans onto him and you can see him look over at the referee to see if he was looking at him (he wasn’t). When Avery snapped his stick, was that after an icing call? If so, that essentially gives his guys an extra 30 seconds to recover, completely defeating the purpose of why teams are not allowed to change lines after icing.
Officiating issues aside, this team HAS to answer the bell Wednesday, but be smart about it. Their goalie was ran numerous times, they allowed Prust to run around like a wild man, and letting Dubinsky walk right in with less than two minutes left in a tied playoff game is flat out embarrassing. There were so many other little things that happened yesterday which should fire this team up, so there is no excuse to come out flat or scared Wednesday night. Limit the penalties, keep their pests in check, and the Caps will get the win on Wednesday.
by JimCareyFanClub on Apr 18, 2011 11:31 AM EDT up reply actions
Now It’s A Series
But we don’t want a series.
"And as it’s my personal opinion, I’d appreciate not being told it’s stupid, thanks." - BeccaH
Today’s loss was the first in regulation for the Capitals with Jason Arnott(notes) in their lineup (12-1-1).
Impressive.
"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 hope he puts a charge into the troops before Game 4. I was hoping we were past subpar efforts in big games, but Game 3 indicates there is still an issue.
I keep thinking Arnott is like Randy Quaid’s Amish character in Kingpin. So pure. So virtuous. And now Ovi’s Woody Harrelson has him doing bong hits in the backseat of a convertible on the way to Vegas.
Like I said before Game 3, Game 3 was the litmus test for me and this Capitals team failed, again. Simply put, they did not come out and play anything even close to their best hockey.
Responding well in Games 4 & 5 can show that they can adjust and learn but I’m very disappointed in their effort considering how many times we’ve heard different lyrics to the same tune from everyone on the team.
It doesn’t matter what goalie is in net.
It’s a total team effort problem.
Other people need to be putting up points other than Ovechkin.
I can’t blame Ovi for trying to take the game into his hands in the 2nd and 3rd period. Bruce started his super panic line shuffling. You don’t do that mid game and expect guys to not start playing individually. It screams individual play making, esp when you’re stacking the 1st line as BOS. Everyone who isn’t Arnott needs to get their asses out of their heads.
/not a panic. I’m just sick of it and I’m not waiting for another game 7 to think this shit.
If you want to tell people the truth, make them laugh, otherwise they'll kill you.
by zephyr on Apr 18, 2011 11:27 AM EDT reply actions 3 recs
I only saw the 1st period, but I thought they just looked intimidated when NY came out hitting everything in site. MSG was surprisingly good considering Blueshirt Banter beforehand.
"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
1. You should watch the rest of the game. Even though it’s painful.
2. I don’t care if they are intimidated. The Caps are a large, strong hockey team.
Also, I think everyone should be MORE upset that they played so poorly and still almost won\forced OT. That means if they gave even the tinniest fuck in the world they would have won the game.
If you want to tell people the truth, make them laugh, otherwise they'll kill you.
That means if they gave even the tinniest fuck in the world they would have won the game
Yep, they really couldn’t have cared less that they lost that game yesterday. In fact, the Russians were probably throwing the game so they could get to the World Championships.
Because they couldn’t stand having a good coach and wanted to be reunited with Bykov?
by vtcapsfan99 on Apr 18, 2011 11:51 AM EDT up reply actions 3 recs
If you think the Caps looked anything like a team that was playing a must win game and like a team that has something to prove then good for you.
Also, there is a big difference between wanting to win, caring, or wanting to lose. Hyperbole all you want.
If you want to tell people the truth, make them laugh, otherwise they'll kill you.
You equated on-ice effort with desire to win, when the two don’t always translate equally. The effort should have been better, but you can’t say that they just didn’t want it enough, or that they could have won handily if they had wanted it more. It just doesn’t work that way.
by redpezrocket on Apr 18, 2011 11:55 AM EDT up reply actions
You equated on-ice effort with desire to win…
Yes I did equate those things and will continue doing so because they directly correlate. People that want to win without putting in effort are called losers.
You’re right that I shouldn’t say that they would have won because you can never replay game. But, they would have won.
If you want to tell people the truth, make them laugh, otherwise they'll kill you.
by zephyr on Apr 18, 2011 12:00 PM EDT up reply actions 2 recs
That’s rich. You’re accusing the entire team of not caring and you say I’m using hyperbole.
by b.orr4 on Apr 18, 2011 12:03 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
I’m being serious other than the few players I mentioned, but really it comes down to a royal we thing in the end anyway, and you’re making comments about them throwing the playoffs so they can go to the worlds.
But yeah I guess I’m the one being sarcastic =\
If you want to tell people the truth, make them laugh, otherwise they'll kill you.
Other people need to be putting up points other than Ovechkin
You didn’t mention a few players, you just mentioned one-Ovechkin. That means that guys like Carlson and Alzner and Arnott and Laich and on down the list didn’t give a shit about the outcome of yesterday’s game. If you really think that’s true and you continue to root for a team that you think is largely comprised of “losers”, then you’re a much bigger fan than I am. In any case, I’m done with this.
You don’t do that mid game and expect guys to not start playing individually.
A-to-the-rec.
Less drama, more hockey
by SeattleCapsFan on Apr 18, 2011 11:32 AM EDT up reply actions
Thank you! I agree 100%. Someone other than Ovechkin needs to start putting up points, and I mean more than just 1 or 2 points. Hell, Ovie scored and assisted on 2 of the last three goals we scored on MTL last year. Where the balls was everyone else! Of course you are going to lose if only one person on your team shows up!
I’ve been a caps fan since 87-88 and so I’ve been through a lot of the ups and downs, and more of them then a lot of people here so no bitching about “well you don’t know this teams history”.
I cannot believe how quickly people have quit on the team after a single game where despite being having a 7-3 PP differential to overcome (not commenting on quality of officiating, stating fact) they absolutely had a chance to win that game. Neuvirth has a .951 sv% and a 1.22GAA through 3 games and now people have bailed on him after 1 average game.
Was I disappointed they lost, absolutely. Am I ready to bail on the team that I’ve seen grow and mature since that nightmare known as December? Absolutely not. The fan base needs someone like Arnott to come in and settle them the fuck down and quit doing this whole “this team doesn’t care, change the goalie” bullshit after 1 game where just about everything that could go against us did and we were still in it until the last two minutes.
by Beakers Lab on Apr 18, 2011 1:33 PM EDT up reply actions 10 recs
Bravo Beakers. I bet the only change for Wednesday is Fehr in and Bradley or Hendricks out. And even that I’m not 100% sure about. If I were BB I’d do it because the 3rd/4th line guys need to start getting in Lundqvist’s face if they want playoff sweaters. Fehr has shown the ability to get to the net before and sitting out 3 games has to make him realize what he needs to do if he wants to play this postseason.
I haven’t read anyone here quitting on them. I’m certainty not. That doesn’t mean I can’t be disappointed in their “performance.”
I’m also fine with Neuvy. He played adequately for a win. To me the talk about goalie switching and the talk about the officiating are lame excuses and I’m calling them out as such.
If you want to tell people the truth, make them laugh, otherwise they'll kill you.
by zephyr on Apr 18, 2011 2:54 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
I thought the Caps played poorly, but I thought they gave decent effort. Not enough to match the Rags’ – who played like everything was on the line – but a decent effort.
Execution on the part of the Caps was bad. Bad from the goalie, bad from the D in certain instances (GWG being a prime example), and really bad from the refs.
Patron saint of quality footwear.
“Decent effort” is not enough in the playoffs, especially not against a team like the Rangers that lives and dies on giving 110%.
by Berube Doobie Doo on Apr 18, 2011 3:12 PM EDT up reply actions
Agree. If they are implementing a system wouldn’t that system include sticking to lines when down by one goal or even? Why deviate when everything is working to plan?
So now that everyone’s bitched about Neuvirth being “unavailable” after the game
kcarrera #Caps Michal Neuvirth was asked what Sean Avery was saying to him in Gm3: “The crowd was pretty loud, so I couldn’t understand.”
Nice answer.
Don’t try to figure Sasha out. Just ride the wave.
Someone has been attending the GMGM school of quotes.
by Kolzilla on Apr 18, 2011 11:36 AM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
Between this and Prust bumping him on his way down to skate with the team while they waited for the new referee to come in, I couldn’t have been more pissed that nobody on the Caps made either of them answer for this.
by JimCareyFanClub on Apr 18, 2011 11:37 AM EDT up reply actions
Prust was all over Neuvy that game. At least 6 times that I could see and that was while watching on TV. Avery was doing sneaky crap as well.
If you want to tell people the truth, make them laugh, otherwise they'll kill you.
Avery’s run-in with Carlson at the end was a classic veteran move. Avery off the ice matters much less than Carlson off the ice at a key moment in the game. John needs to show more discipline throughout the rest of the playoffs and not get into a pissing match with clowns like Avery.
by JimCareyFanClub on Apr 18, 2011 11:44 AM EDT up reply actions
A better answer would of been,
" he was saying his internship at Vogue really opened his eye’s to the finer points of fashion, and that he would like to hang out after the series and do some shopping."
Or maybe, “I don’t know, was he there? I just heard this buzzing and I assumed MSG had pest-control problems.”
by redpezrocket on Apr 18, 2011 11:45 AM EDT up reply actions
Who bitched about that? I get that sometimes you want to hear from a player but no one’s entitled to it, and there were six players on the ice. People shouldn’t single out Neuvy just because he’s the topic du jour.
by redpezrocket on Apr 18, 2011 11:45 AM EDT up reply actions
Couple of reporters mentioned in their post-game stories that he wasn’t available to the press after the game.
Don’t try to figure Sasha out. Just ride the wave.
He was too busy commiserating with all his teammates who love and defend him so.
名誉と大きな脳物質のステッケルミーエルモ男！
But I thought no one liked Neuvy?
Seriously, though, I couldn’t parse whether you were being snarky. Were you? Because I don’t think it’s a big deal that he wasn’t available to talk. I wouldn’t want to be asked over and over what I would have done differently, either. Some days you just don’t want to deal with it.
by redpezrocket on Apr 18, 2011 11:57 AM EDT up reply actions
Further clarification:
kcarrera: Neuvirth was probably trying to be diplomatic when asked about Avery, said it with a bit of a smirk.
by redpezrocket on Apr 18, 2011 12:13 PM EDT up reply actions
From what I’ve seen lately, Neuvy can teach courses in smirking.
by redpezrocket on Apr 18, 2011 3:24 PM EDT up reply actions
About the refs, Steinberg has this from Boudreau (radio this morning)
because the referees are different every game in the first series
L’Ecuyer was the backup at all three games, but the actual tandem was different for all three.
Don’t try to figure Sasha out. Just ride the wave.
Bruce also seemed to be defending Neuvy for the most part, so I don’t think you’re going to see a goalie change just yet.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/dc-sports-bog/post/boudreau-insults-madison-square-garden/2011/04/18/AFi5QNzD_blog.html
Don’t try to figure Sasha out. Just ride the wave.
I love that nugget from Bruce. I love that he simultaneously supported his goalie, goalie coach, and stuck his thumb into NBC’s eye.
by redpezrocket on Apr 18, 2011 12:01 PM EDT up reply actions
Can we all agree, at least, that Dubinsky’s mustache is awesome?
by RCheli on Apr 18, 2011 12:02 PM EDT reply actions 1 recs
If by awesome you mean, “I am in awe of how awful it is,” then sure.
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 18, 2011 12:03 PM EDT up reply actions 5 recs
"My favorite fan base in D.C. Is United's. Period. The end." - Steinberg
by Bald Pollack on Apr 18, 2011 12:07 PM EDT up reply actions
I always enjoy a good porn ‘stache. I think it’s probably hard for a lot of folks to appreciate anything connected to a member of the opposing team.
"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 think it’s probably hard for a lot of folks to appreciate anything connected to a member of the opposing team.
Well, now that you put it that way…
by DrinkingPartner on Apr 18, 2011 12:31 PM EDT up reply actions 2 recs
Ah, hahaha. Bravo.
"Nothing." - Tuukka Rask, after being asked what he saw on Shea Weber's game winner in overtime.
by Chris Burton on Apr 18, 2011 12:32 PM EDT up reply actions
You people?
What do you mean, “you people”?
First Round Exit! (Clap Clap ClapClapClap) First Round Exit!
Wrong.
"Nothing." - Tuukka Rask, after being asked what he saw on Shea Weber's game winner in overtime.
by Chris Burton on Apr 18, 2011 12:21 PM EDT up reply actions
Since when are pedo-staches awesome?
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 18, 2011 12:27 PM EDT up reply actions
Furthermore, since when does one shave a playoff beard in favor of a pedo-stache?
"Nothing." - Tuukka Rask, after being asked what he saw on Shea Weber's game winner in overtime.
by Chris Burton on Apr 18, 2011 12:28 PM EDT up reply actions
Since one is a pedophile!
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 18, 2011 12:33 PM EDT up reply actions
Awesomely bad.
I don’t have much tolerance for stupid. Or cheese on food that doesn’t need it. -duck
by twistedlogic on Apr 18, 2011 12:33 PM EDT up reply actions
The Power Play
Let’s talk it. 2-9 this series. That is good. And it looks to be sustainably so. They are generating chances because – get this – they are moving the puck and their feet fast and frequently!
I feel optimism when we get a power play. I think this is a very very good sign.
The keyboard is mightier.
It’s looking competent lately. Now, if we could get back to “dominant”…
by Berube Doobie Doo on Apr 18, 2011 12:05 PM EDT up reply actions
It’s been ok so far, need more bodies in front of lundy.
by Richard Arthur-Gyamfi on Apr 18, 2011 12:08 PM EDT up reply actions
Vastly improved. Even PPs they didn’t score on they at least looked dangerous, with decent puck movement a couple good chances.
The addition at various times of Green, Arnott and surprisingly, Laich at the point, has changed the face of the PP.
I love Ovie, but he hasn’t played well on the point, IMO.
"By far the worst performers on the team are in the front office." – Sally Jenkins
From BMcNally:
Bruce Boudreau not happy with the hit on Mike Green yesterday by Marc Staal. “It was a dirty shot. I hope the league looks at 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."
They’ve been going after Green head all series. I have to think that’s coming on direction from their coach.
I don’t know much about Torts as a person, but I imagine you must be a pretty awful person if you tell your guys to intentionally aim for someone’s head.
by redpezrocket on Apr 18, 2011 12:09 PM EDT up reply actions
I said it before the series and I’ll say it again. I would be very surprised if Torts specifically said to target Green’s head. But I would also be very surprised if Torts didn’t remind his players that 52 was returning from an injury and make a point of reminding all of the players to not miss an opportunity to hit him and to always follow through.
Exactly. He’s never going to say go out and hurt a guy, but he will definitely say he’s coming off a concussion and the more you hit him the more nervous he’s going to get. Of course, some players like Prust and Boyle will carry that a step further and go for his head which they’ve done.
and Torts knows damn well which players will carry his instructions at bit further and target heads.
Pledge Drive 2010-2011: SO KIDS CAN!! Help build a playground
Right, and I mean, on 24/7, Bylsma openly stated at one point that their tactic against Green was to abuse him all game.
At this point it’s no secret whatsoever.
As for taking it to the head, some guys are just like that.
"By far the worst performers on the team are in the front office." – Sally Jenkins
And the Flyers were happy to tell everyone back in 2008 that their game plan was to try and knock Green out of the game. Now, if they meant physically or mentally, that’s up for you to decide.
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BB with harsh words re the Staal
From the Examiner:
"It was a dirty hit. I hope the league looks at it. I listened to all the experts last night on the [Raffi] Torres hit on [Chicago defenseman Brent] Seabrook. They’re all saying ‘There’s no puck, it’s not a hockey play. The guy is in a vulnerable position and he hits the head. That’s exactly what we’re trying to get out of the league, get out of the game. Staal comes in, there’s no puck he takes his arm he swings it at his head, but it’s all forgotten because we score a goal to tie the game up. But it shouldn’t be forgotten. And it’s not the only time they targeted Mike’s head. And they targeted it a few times. And that’s what we want to get out of the game."
"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."
Good for Bruce and he’s dead on. If Boyle and Prust had been going after Crosby’s head like they’ve gone after Mike’s, they’d be spending a lot of time in the box and rightfully so. Hopefully, Bruce outing them will force the refs to watch a little closer when the Rangers get up high on Green.
It’s one of the plays where unfortunately I don’t think anything will happen since MG was okay. If he missed the rest of the playoffs with a concussion Staal probably sits for a game or two.
Which is stupid because the only way to stop that kind of head-hunting-with-your elbows crap is to levy punishment regardless.
"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."
Punishing a play based on injury-outcome, not LIKELY-outcome, is so f-cking stupid.
"By far the worst performers on the team are in the front office." – Sally Jenkins
I completely agree.
It’s the culture of the NHL at this point. Even in the description of the play on Puck Daddy Wysh writes:
the Marc Staal hit on Mike Green after Alex Ovechkin’s goal that was so vicious that … Green was still able to go celebrate the goal and played the entire game.
(Considering the hit came before Ovie’s goal I wonder if he even bothered to view the hit, but I digress.)
Basically a dirty play featuring a slightly more accurate elbow ends Green’s playoffs and gets a suspension. When you just miss nailing the victim in the sweet spot the coach is silly for even bringing it up.
"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."
Pretty bold of them to target Green’s head like that since they are the same team that gave him the concussion to begin with and pretty much got away with it. I’m a bit surprised of how much they are willing to push their luck on this.
Lobbies: Green, Carlson, Orlov
Torres gets nothing for his hit on Seabrook (which BB compared it to) and word just came down that the League’s not going to talk to Staal about this one.
Sunrise, sunset, swiftly fly the years. One season following another, laden with happiness and tears.
But I bet they talk to the refs for Wednesday night which is all Bruce wants. He knew they weren’t going to suspend Staal, but he got his point across and I’ll bet that if Prust tries any of that crap with Neuvy next game or someone goes high on Green, they’re in the box for two.
So do I :-). What he has working in his favor is that there is always this perception that because the league is headquartered in New York, there’s a bias towards the Rangers. I don’t believe it, but Bettman will hear what Bruce is saying and make sure the game is ref’d evenly. And that’s all Bruce wants.
Not to bring up a bad memory, but Jacques Martin did the same thing last spring; complaining that the Caps were bumping on their goalie and the refs were ignoring it. Then game 7 (and Ovi’s waived-off goal) happened.
"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.
Caps participating in optional practice today according to twitter:
Caps participating in the optional skate: 3, 1, 26, 89, 83, 10, 25, 16, 17, 4, 62
Is Boudreau trying to decide who to play next game out of Chimera, Bradley, Hendricks?
My guess is he and Mackan are the only ones in that group with a feeling of job security.
"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.
Yeah, this was my initial thought but I can see what RB is saying about aggravating any nagging injuries too
"If you want money, go to the bank. If you want bread, go to the bakery. If you want goals, go to the net" -Brooks Laich
given his long history of back problems, that’s why I put forth the nagging injury theory. but it’s just a guess.
Pledge Drive 2010-2011: SO KIDS CAN!! Help build a playground
The guy had almost 5 minutes of PK time yesterday. Get some rest, Gordo…well-deserved.
Sunrise, sunset, swiftly fly the years. One season following another, laden with happiness and tears.
yeah, that too :) and a couple of impressive 5-on-3 kills. Rest up, Gordo!
Pledge Drive 2010-2011: SO KIDS CAN!! Help build a playground
guessing he’s trying not to risk aggravating any nagging injuries.
Pledge Drive 2010-2011: SO KIDS CAN!! Help build a playground
From Wyno:
Boudreau says refs need to start calling penalties to keep #Caps from retaliating for shots at Neuvirth, after whistle.
"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."
They do. And its all on the refs when players take things into their own hands because they(the refs) aren’t controlling the game. Its basically a proven fact. Players will only let things go so far before they are willing to take a penalty, and hope it isn’t seen, to cross check a guy where the pads aren’t.
The caps don’t have our goons anymore, but why do you think 2 years ago Brashear was suspended for that elbow in our first series against the Rags. That stuff continues the Caps need to look to Hendricks, Bradley, and Erskine to do something…and I’m not advocating doing something stupid to get themselves suspended but to send a message.
People are going to explode on BB, pundits and idiot fans of other teams, for complaining so much to the media but that’s part of a coaches job. Other coaches do it a lot and people always seem to forget their own favorite coach does it. Its not meant to scream at the NHL officials “suspend this guy!!!!!!!@” but to make enough noise for them to send out to their refs “hey, keep an eye out for this stuff”
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.
Continuing the goalie talk…Laviolette pulled Bobrovsky after 3 goals on Saturday, and they’re going with Boucher in Game 3. No word on whether Bob is backing up or if it’ll be Leighton.
Talk about a fast hook…
Sunrise, sunset, swiftly fly the years. One season following another, laden with happiness and tears.
Word on Twitter was that Bob no longer had a locker in the room, so it looks like Leighton…
That'll make your weagle wink!
The pants that bind us should be left behind us.
That’s terrible. I can’t believe he’d lose his locker over one bad game.
If you want to tell people the truth, make them laugh, otherwise they'll kill you.
The arena in Buffalo’s not a really new building. Maybe they just don’t have the room for 3 goalie lockers.
Well you wouldn’t dress three anyway.
If you want to tell people the truth, make them laugh, otherwise they'll kill you.
I LOVE it. Go ahead Flyers, continue to be on the cutting edge in ruining goalies. The rest of the league owes you one.
Remember earlier in the year when Bob was the bestest goalie ever and was better than Varlamov?
First Round Exit! (Clap Clap ClapClapClap) First Round Exit!
On a serious note, I thought Varly and Bob competed growing up in Russia to be the best goaltender their age (Bob is 5 months younger), and Varly usually won. Looks like he is still winning.
by vtcapsfan99 on Apr 18, 2011 12:31 PM EDT up reply actions
Bob played because Philly has no other options. Neuvy “stole” the starting job from Varly by being the healthier goalie and playing at a high level throughout the season.
If Bob were in the Caps organization, he’d be battling with Holtby for Hershey playing time, imo.
Pledge Drive 2010-2011: SO KIDS CAN!! Help build a playground
Well, he did battle our ECHL goalie (Jared DeMichael). And Lost.
"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 know every time I see Bob, all I can think is “that’s the guy who lost the Caps-Flyers rookie game! And the Flyers think he’s the answer. Ha ha ha ha ha!”
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Yup. One game after allowing one goal on 25 shots – I’d say it’s shorter than a Theo leash.
Sunrise, sunset, swiftly fly the years. One season following another, laden with happiness and tears.
True, but his 10 games going into the playoffs were pretty mediocre — at best. I think this was a long time coming.
Fair point. Still shocked they even called Leighton up, though, let alone are using him as the backup tonight. If you don’t have faith in the kid to be your starter that’s one thing but they’ve been touting him as The Guy all year long, and NOW they don’t even have faith in him to backup? Yeesh.
Go Sabres :P
Sunrise, sunset, swiftly fly the years. One season following another, laden with happiness and tears.
If you don’t have faith in the kid to be your starter that’s one thing but they’ve been touting him as The Guy all year long, and NOW they don’t even have faith in him to backup? Yeesh.
Ladies and gentlemen, the Philadelphia Flyers!
"Nothing." - Tuukka Rask, after being asked what he saw on Shea Weber's game winner in overtime.
by Chris Burton on Apr 18, 2011 12:24 PM EDT up reply actions
I hear Laviolette isn’t going to even start a goalie in the next game and just go with six skaters, further reinforcing the notion that goalies aren’t that important.
by b.orr4 on Apr 18, 2011 12:25 PM EDT up reply actions 2 recs
If he’s sucking up so bad, why do you want to have to go back to him if there’s an injury? These are all must-win games.
He’s hardly sucking. I’m not a huge Bob supporter but the guy’s given up 4 goals in 4 periods of play in his first NHL playoffs…can’t believe an AHL guy (Finals run or not) is a better option than the kid who played a huge role in the Flyers being where they were all season.
Sunrise, sunset, swiftly fly the years. One season following another, laden with happiness and tears.
Theo leash. I think Natty needs to update the glossary
Pledge Drive 2010-2011: SO KIDS CAN!! Help build a playground
Last Year
Obviously the Canadiens were going to come out strong, fighting, literally, for their playoff lives, and arguably with an intensity and desperation the Capitals simply wouldn’t be able to match. I can accept that. What I can’t accept is that Washington – a team that has battled back from playoff deficits in each of the last two years, a team with a coach who has been in the game for decades and won championships in the minor leagues, a team with a strong veteran presence – looked like they were surprised and, consequently, unprepared for the Canadiens’ effort and game plan.
We’ve said it before, and we’ll probably end up saying it again: the Capitals are an incredibly talented hockey team, but if they want to win in the postseason, they’re going to need to stop relying solely on their talent, and start using both their brains and their guts.
—
And so the scene shifts back to Verizon Center once more, for yet another win-or-go-home Game 7 – except this time, coming back home is damn near inexcusable. Twice the Capitals had the Canadiens on the ropes; twice they had the chance to end Montreal’s season, to put their foot on the Canadiens’ collective necks and go into the second round with the confidence of a team that has killer instinct.
But twice they fell behind early. Twice they failed to capitalize on power plays. And twice they fell victim to a goaltender who suddenly seemed invincible.
As a result, they have one last chance – only this time they have to eliminate or be eliminated.
Comments are complaining of bad calls, effort, the goaltending for both teams and how the Capitals are a better team.
Not saying we’re going to lose but it’s interesting and the Caps are seriously two games away from being in the same situation.
If you want to tell people the truth, make them laugh, otherwise they'll kill you.
See…I don’t think this is anywhere near the same thing as last year, not even close.
The Rangers are a tough matchup for the Caps, as the Habs were, and there was no question in my mind that the Caps would lose one at MSG.
That being said:
1) they weren’t undone by a goalie who seemed invincible
2) they scored on the power play
3) they had a goal review go their way
4) they didn’t play as well as they can against a team that was fighting hard and still had a tie game going into the last two minutes
5) despite that, they didn’t seem disinterested or unwilling to work – in fact it was some of our most skilled players who were out there doing the grittiest jobs.
I just don’t get the doom and gloom I’m seeing from a lot of people today. It’s one…game. One. Against a team that plays hard despite not having a ton of talent. I didn’t expect a sweep (although it would have been nice) and I don’t know why anyone would. I’m fine with it. Take Game 4 in MSG, win it at home. Even if they don’t, even if it goes 6, I have more confidence in this team being able to rebound from a loss like this than I did after they blew Game 5 last year.
Sunrise, sunset, swiftly fly the years. One season following another, laden with happiness and tears.
by Becca H on Apr 18, 2011 12:28 PM EDT up reply actions 2 recs
I agree that there are a lot of positives to take away from this.
by redpezrocket on Apr 18, 2011 12:30 PM EDT up reply actions
Hehe, if there is anything to take away from the game it’s that a goal review went our way. I was shocked. That was a nice change.
If you want to tell people the truth, make them laugh, otherwise they'll kill you.
That’s twice in one series, no less (and both the correct calls, imo). Sign of the apocalypse??
Sunrise, sunset, swiftly fly the years. One season following another, laden with happiness and tears.
I was floored both times. So sure it was going against us. And fuck, NBC, can’t you show us the proper clock on those “time runs out” plays?
by Berube Doobie Doo on Apr 18, 2011 12:34 PM EDT up reply actions
I’m not sure NBC has access to the images with the official game clock burned in like the war room does… just sayin’
I am a hockey fan first, and a Caps fan second.
by iwearstripes on Apr 18, 2011 1:58 PM EDT up reply actions
If they don’t, which I could see being the case, then they needed to not take their camera view as gospel and point out that the League has an official clock.
Although the fact that the green light was on should have negated any debate by them in the first place.
Whatever. NBC sucks.
Sunrise, sunset, swiftly fly the years. One season following another, laden with happiness and tears.
by Becca H on Apr 18, 2011 2:10 PM EDT up reply actions 2 recs
Once I noticed that green light was on, it was like “Duh, of course it’s not a goal.” Too bad noone on NBC’s crack production team actually looked closely at their own footage.
Doc mentioned it.
Eddie O (or maybe it was Panger): "…IT’S SLID PAST THE POST OUT OF VIEW AND THE CLOCK READS 0.01 IT HAS TO BE IN THE NET
Doc: “…by which time the green light has gone on, it must be noted.”
Patron saint of quality footwear.
by fat_daddyo on Apr 18, 2011 3:50 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
it was hard to hear Doc over all that screaming.
Pledge Drive 2010-2011: SO KIDS CAN!! Help build a playground
Pretty sure I’ve seen that official game clock view in mid-game replays before. I could be wrong, though. It has happened before.
by Berube Doobie Doo on Apr 18, 2011 2:29 PM EDT up reply actions
NBC does have access to it. When it showed the replay again about an hour after the review, you see the official clock at the bottom of the replay.
by redpezrocket on Apr 18, 2011 2:31 PM EDT up reply actions
I beleive I read a tweet well after the game that NBC was “reprimanded” by the league for not having an overhead shot with clock imbed available. It may have beed tweeted by LeBrun or Dreger??? Sorry I can’t remember.
I'll never put on a life jacket again
I blame NBC for flubbing the replay and not using the official game clock. I nearly had a heart attack.
by redpezrocket on Apr 18, 2011 12:34 PM EDT up reply actions
That’s my thought on it. Were we really expecting a sweep? One game dropped and already we’re comparing it to last year’s loss. Overall, I’m still pretty happy with the performance. Would like to see some more intensity on Wednesday, however.
I don’t have much tolerance for stupid. Or cheese on food that doesn’t need it. -duck
by twistedlogic on Apr 18, 2011 12:32 PM EDT up reply actions
I was expecting them to play much better than they did and probably win putting the rangers in a horrible 3-0 hole.
If you want to tell people the truth, make them laugh, otherwise they'll kill you.
Would’ve been nice. A 3-1 hole is almost as good, though, and after last year there’s honestly no team I’d rather see up with a 3-1 lead than a team that knows what it’s like to blow one.
Sunrise, sunset, swiftly fly the years. One season following another, laden with happiness and tears.
It’s just the not playing well when they should and the excuses starting up that I was drawing parallels too. The team as young as they are has a lot of playoff experience now and some great leadership in the room. It just seemed like they should really be past the type of performance they put out.
If you want to tell people the truth, make them laugh, otherwise they'll kill you.
I suppose. And again, I don’t think they played badly per se – I just think they didn’t have the same urgency the Rangers did, which is understandable considering they’re up 2-0. I also don’t think they’ll be happy with that performance overall and will address it.
There are positives to take from it and negatives, and I’m sure guys like Arnott and Knuble and Ovi will step up and take the lead – whether we see it or not.
Sunrise, sunset, swiftly fly the years. One season following another, laden with happiness and tears.
Urgency was exactly the word I was looking for. They need a lot more of it on Wednesday. They also could stand to add some traffic in front of Lundqvist.
I don’t have much tolerance for stupid. Or cheese on food that doesn’t need it. -duck
by twistedlogic on Apr 18, 2011 12:43 PM EDT up reply actions
I agree on the urgency. I guess to me that taints the game because if they had the urgency they should have been putting on a better effort?
I don’t think it’s understandable though and there isn’t a good excuse for it. I’m just tired of the excuses. Why do we need to make them for the team?
I have no doubt that Arnott and Knuble have already addressed it vocally and will continue to do so leading up to the game but…
If you want to tell people the truth, make them laugh, otherwise they'll kill you.
I don’t think anyone’s making excuses for the team, though (and I don’t see the team making excuses for themselves). The Rangers had more urgency. The Caps didn’t have the same but still played a decent game.
And it’s not an excuse to say that being shorthanded as much as they were took them out of the game a bit – bad calls + undisciplined play = a tired team with no flow. That’s just fact. I don’t expect them to give the same effort (which again I didn’t see as being THAT bad, just maybe not up to the same level as the Rangers in this one game) nor do I expect them to be shorthanded as often next game.
Sunrise, sunset, swiftly fly the years. One season following another, laden with happiness and tears.
I think I do understand the “doom and gloom” at least a little. Many, many Caps fans have been given reason to be pessimistic for so long that it’s become a comfortable feeling (or a default association). It’s almost as if the evidence to be hopeful can never count enough to actually balance the despondency. And any new possible cause for doubt counts double because of past disappointments.
Of course, I’ve been very optimistic about this team since long before Ovi, but I also don’t think my personal feeling have influenced the Ws & Ls, so I always choose the positive outlook because it suits me better. :-D
Country Gentlemen's Pig Fertilizer Gazette
Dunny-on-the-World
I always choose the positive outlook because it suits me better. :-D
I’m with you there ;) I find it more fun to be a fan when I’m optimistic than just assuming the worst all the time. I’m used to the pain and suffering and I let the pessimism in on occasion, but I prefer to see the silver lining. This team’s good. Whether they win it all or not depends on a lot of factors, only some of which are in their control, but I have full confidence in their ability to beat the Rangers this year.
Sunrise, sunset, swiftly fly the years. One season following another, laden with happiness and tears.
I expected the Caps to win yesterday. Anytime a DC team is expected to win, but loses, I get a very familiar gut-punched feeling that makes me very pessimistic until the next game.
by Berube Doobie Doo on Apr 18, 2011 12:40 PM EDT up reply actions
Vegas actually had the Rangers favored in that game…but not by much.
I don’t have much tolerance for stupid. Or cheese on food that doesn’t need it. -duck
by twistedlogic on Apr 18, 2011 12:41 PM EDT up reply actions
that will happen to me on occasion, but not based on the effort the team has made in this series. Every team makes mistakes every game, even playoff games. This season (particularly after the 0-6-2 debacle) the Caps have become very efficient at making a mistake once, and adapting. I think the Rangers have played all their cards early.
1. Rush the Neuvy.
2. Aim for Green’s head.
3. Bring in Avery
4. Get lucky.
Well it worked last night. And I don’t think NY is going to be able to count on another 7 PP opportunity playoff game again. So now, I’m not apprehensive about game 4. I’m eager. I can’t wait to see the Boys in Red put a puck right thru the heart of the Rangers on Wednesday.
Country Gentlemen's Pig Fertilizer Gazette
Dunny-on-the-World
They’ll be in white on Wednesday ;-)
I don’t have much tolerance for stupid. Or cheese on food that doesn’t need it. -duck
by twistedlogic on Apr 18, 2011 12:54 PM EDT up reply actions
How did Peerless characterized Caps fans: they see the poop and not the puppy.
What I want on Wednesday is for the team to remain calm and disciplined no matter how much the Rangers try to be agitators and take liberties. Too many of the Caps players let their pest behavior-like and the imbalance of calls by the refs get under their skins. The Rangers threw them off their game. This is where I hope the veteran leadership steps up and talks about how to respond.
Personally I’m back to feeling agitation but I can see the puppy despite that poopy game.
"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 18, 2011 1:03 PM EDT up reply actions
pretty interesting recap over at blueshirt banter.
Apparently christensen’s goal wasn’t a “perfect shot”
Also, we could learn some optimism from their posters. they barely win 1 game they should have won after the first period and now the rangers are the gutsiest team to ever play the game. I like that. Although, I suppose if people over here didn’t burn the house down over every loss, it just wouldn’t feel like home.
totally wrong blog and I apologize.....
But talking of choking, and let’s be honest the Caps have choked A TON in their existence, but… the Terps Lacrosse team takes the CAKE this year. Jeez…. At monumental meltdowns. unbelievable. Let’s just pray that all of the choking Mojo has gone to them and it leaves the Caps alone this year.
And a side note about the Lightening and Carolina cup years… Where are their opponents now? They STINK! The only time we make it, we play a juggernaut that is dominant over a decade later?? What did the Caps do in their previous life to deserve this kind of karma???
Okay. But what’s your point?
If wishes were horses, we'd all be eating steak.
by Hang a Laingtern on Your Problems on Apr 18, 2011 12:53 PM EDT up reply actions 2 recs
Jesus, people, have you ever heard of the 5-game series?
Chicago took 6 games to beat Nashville last year. I believe the Pens took 5 to beat their first round opponent. Philly took 5 to beat the Devils.
The Caps have the series lead. Yes, they are capable of dropping it, but they’re also capable of tightening up next game and taking the next 2. They have the leadership, the focus, and the skill to do so.
I didn’t think Neuvy was particularly bad yesterday. Sometimes the bounces just don’t go your way. He certainly wasn’t in top form, but he was good. A .914 save % isn’t terrible.
I think the reason the Caps lost yesterday is because they played sloppy. The passing was not crisp, the shots were not true, and their minds seemed penetrated. I think the NYR style of douchebaggery started to get to them. This, I believe, is the drawback to ‘just skating away.’
There is a reason fighting is semi-condoned in hockey. For situations just like this. When the other team is getting into your team’s head, your team needs to get out its aggression and move on. That, I believe, is an occasion which calls for John Erskine or Matt Hendricks to sculpt Sean Avery or Ruslan Fedetenko a new face.
I don’t think the Rangers could have been much more energised. But the Caps looked like they needed to punch someone.
There is aggression which cannot be translated into aggressive and energised play. This is aggression which fucks with you and gets in your head and makes you want to bash someone in.
Hockey is a wonderful sport because it allows you, essentially, to do just that.
The Caps have the PK capacity to take penalties and kill them. Don’t worry too much about the instigator penalty.
I want Sean Avery’s face re-arranged next game. Bruce, give the go-ahead
I think the reason the Caps lost yesterday is because they played sloppy. The passing was not crisp, the shots were not true, and their minds seemed penetrated. I think the NYR style of douchebaggery started to get to them.
I agree with this. Even before the parade to the penalty box I was underwhelmed with the Caps play 5v5.
Which gives me optimism. The Caps were slightly off their game and the Rangers for the most part did what they wanted to do. And yet the Caps very nearly came away with a road game the opposition absolutely had to have.
"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 think the reference to the Pens was the year they won the Cup. They beat Ottawa in 4 the year they went to the Finals, Philly in 6 the year they won the Cup.
Sunrise, sunset, swiftly fly the years. One season following another, laden with happiness and tears.
And that Ottawa team was absolutely horrendous heading into the playoffs. They basically snuck in because they had been great in the first 25 games of the season and then just held on for dear life the last two months of the season. You could not have picked a better first round opponent. This Ranger team is playing light years better than the ’09 Ottawa team.
One of the games was a triple overtime which the Pens lost as I recall. But yes they did win the series in six.
"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 18, 2011 1:16 PM EDT up reply actions
I pretty much agree with this. I don’t know if I want a fight per say although I understand your rationale. But I do want them to run Lundquist and take it to them physically.
"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 18, 2011 1:21 PM EDT up reply actions
I love the Boswell is an unapologetic homer. good for a laugh.
When the ruling at 0:00 or 0:01 went the Caps way, I said out loud, “That would never have happened in any of their ‘jinx’ series in the past.” And I thought they’d use that to springboard to a 3-0 lead and put the miserable annoying talentless Rangers out of their misery.
Pledge Drive 2010-2011: SO KIDS CAN!! Help build a playground
Hey, if the Isles leave LI, the NHL should move the Caps to the Atlantic division and enhance the WSH-PIT rivalry. That, of course, means the Caps would play the Rangers 6 times per season…
DownGoesAvery. Check out the hockey blog that's shaking the world: Down Goes Avery and on Twitter (@DownGoesAvery ).
by DownGoesAvery on Apr 18, 2011 1:38 PM EDT up reply actions
Also, WSH-PHI is pretty good. WSH-NYR, despite two playoff series in 3 years, don’t seem to hate each other. Yet.
by Berube Doobie Doo on Apr 18, 2011 2:34 PM EDT up reply actions
The farthest the Isles will move from Nassau is to Brooklyn to the new arena being built there. I don’t see them moving all the way to Kansas City.
Besides unless the Isles move south, there are no other teams that belong in the Southeast. Nashville is in the Central Time Zone so they stay in the West.
Washington Capitals 2009-10 = Quebec Nordiques 1994-95
--- D'ohboy
by MikeL-Pivonka on Apr 18, 2011 3:55 PM EDT up reply actions
hadn’t seen this yet, great BB quotes
"Well, the one thing, its reputation is far better than the actual building," the coach said. "I mean, it’s nothing. The locker rooms are horrible. The benches are horrible. There’s no room for anything. But the reputation of being in Madison Square Garden is what makes it famous. Also, our building’s a lot louder, too. So I mean, they can say what they want, but it’s not that loud in there."
I’m not so sure that was a good idea.
by _Skullduggery_ on Apr 18, 2011 2:12 PM EDT up reply actions
Eh, puts him front and center and takes attention away from the team. If that works, good on him.
"My favorite fan base in D.C. Is United's. Period. The end." - Steinberg
by Bald Pollack on Apr 18, 2011 2:14 PM EDT up reply actions
Plus he’s not going after the players – he’s saying it about the building and the fans. I think it’s hilarious.
…and for what it’s worth, I watched the replay of Game 2 (so I’m an expert, ha ha) and VC sounded a lot louder than MSG did yesterday.
Sunrise, sunset, swiftly fly the years. One season following another, laden with happiness and tears.
I think it’s a brilliant move. It completely deflects the attention from the players and makes him the source of this media cycle.
The NYDN takes a shot at the VC noise:
Honestly, the Garden was not as loud yesterday as the arena in Washington was for Games 1 and 2. The Garden also does not have a ridiculous sound system, nor does it have fans who bring air horns or cowbells.
"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."
Piece of crap article. The noise in VC is canned and amplified by the sound system at times, but the noise in the playoffs is because of the fans – and I’m sure they have fans who bring noisemaking things. And I love the fact that everyone knows to quiet down for Horn Guy and then YELL “Let’s Go Caps” at the top of their lungs.
Santimonious little NYDN jerkwad.
…I’m feeling feisty today.
Sunrise, sunset, swiftly fly the years. One season following another, laden with happiness and tears.
I thought it was a fair response, taking shots back at us after Bruce’s salvo. Sure, there’s no airhorns(dunno what you’d call Wolk’s horn, but definitely not one of these).
But there are plenty of cowbells ;)
by Berube Doobie Doo on Apr 18, 2011 2:58 PM EDT up reply actions
I thought it was a fair response
Not sure it’s his job to respond.
"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."
So whose job is it? And really, who cares anyway? If it doesn’t come from the mouth of a member of the team, whether player, coach, or management, it’s just noise anyways. Fans will bicker, media will prattle, and none of it matters one lick. I’ve been reading less and less Caps news since the playoffs started… It’s all settled on the ice.
by Berube Doobie Doo on Apr 18, 2011 3:04 PM EDT up reply actions
So whose job is it?
I guess I don’t feel like it’s the job of the theoretically objective media to respond to a subjective comment from an opposing coach. His job is to tell us what BB said, then ask the Rangers if they have a response.
A Rangers beat writers has no unique expertise regarding factors impacting stadium so I don’t give a crap where he thinks the VC noise comes from.
"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."
His words actually point out what he tries to downplay. Why don’t the fans bring horns or cowbells? Why don’t they step up and actually make the amount of noise they seem to think they make?
by redpezrocket on Apr 18, 2011 2:58 PM EDT up reply actions
I honestly haven’t heard an air horn at Verizon. Is that common in some sections? Cow bells, yeah and those big red horns, but no air horns.
no air horns. Just Horn Guy, and then the dingdongs who try to imitate him but end up sounding like dying giraffes.
Pledge Drive 2010-2011: SO KIDS CAN!! Help build a playground
Yup. And for some reason every visiting media member calls it an air horn…mostly because they think any sort of noise is unbecoming of a fan base and everyone should sit quietly, giving the players golf claps.
“Right-o, boys…I do say, good show.”
“Indeed. Well done, well done.”
Asshats.
Sunrise, sunset, swiftly fly the years. One season following another, laden with happiness and tears.
I also notice people keep calling it an air horn. Sure, Horn Guy uses air to make horn noises, but it’s not an actual air horn.
by redpezrocket on Apr 18, 2011 3:08 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
Definitely not an air horn. I’ve never heard an air horn at VC. I’d be seriously pissed if someone sitting near me brought one of those to the game.
by Berube Doobie Doo on Apr 18, 2011 3:13 PM EDT up reply actions
I did actually hear one last game… (a real air horn). I maintain that the VC should ban all stadium horns except Horn Guy’s. They sound like dying giraffe-mooses.
Photography: I Rock the Red
Twitter: @IRockTheRed
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We should probably all pop our collars and sip Perrier instead of beer too.
I don’t have much tolerance for stupid. Or cheese on food that doesn’t need it. -duck
by twistedlogic on Apr 18, 2011 3:10 PM EDT up reply actions
ooooh, can we wear pants with little animals embroidered on them, too???
Pledge Drive 2010-2011: SO KIDS CAN!! Help build a playground
is that what that wretched noise was on friday?
Pledge Drive 2010-2011: SO KIDS CAN!! Help build a playground
Yup. Kazoo.
Photography: I Rock the Red
Twitter: @IRockTheRed
E-mail: irockthered {at} gmail {dot} com
Yea…I heard that. Guy wasn’t too far from me.
I don’t have much tolerance for stupid. Or cheese on food that doesn’t need it. -duck
by twistedlogic on Apr 18, 2011 3:16 PM EDT up reply actions
Zimmerman filling his time while injured?
(Yes, I know about the avatar hounding - just pretend mine is invisible.)
by oldemystix on Apr 18, 2011 6:03 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
After WSH scored their first goal at MSG, i thought we could hear a pin drop in the stadium. I know it sucked a lot of enthusiasm out but jeez.
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.
He speaks the truth. New Yorkers like to tell you how great MSG is, but once you’re inside you realize it’s just an antiquated dump with terrible lighting and awful sight lines. The only thing keeping it from being torn down is that there’s a train station beneath it and building a new arena in Manhattan would be cost-prohibitive.
I don’t think it’s a dump…it’s old relatively speaking and has some issues and room for improvement, but Nassau Col. is a dump, the Igloo (still standing) is a dump. FWIW, they are currently renovating portions of MSG.
I don’t have any problem with Boudreau deflecting attention from the players (not that my opinion matters, ha ha), but I think it’s silly to comment on noise levels heading into game 4 at MSG.
Nassau has been a dump for 30 years. The igloo has been a dump for 20. Saying MSG is better than those two isn’t saying much. Compared to the new Consol Center or the Prudential Center or even Verizon, MSG doesn’t measure up. I’ll admit, it has a ton of history behind it, but it’s 43-years old. It’s hard to argue that it isn’t architectually antiquated and dark, at least to my eyes. But, like they say, beauty is in the eye of the beholder. I grew up in Boston and used to think Fenway Park was the greatest ball park in the world and then I moved away and went to places like Camden Park and realized how wrong I was.
I didn’t say it was beautiful, just not a dump.
FWIW, I don’t like a lot about the Verizon Center and I think it dated pretty quickly in 10 years compared to the newer arenas.
It wouldn’t surprise me if the home locker room is much nicer than the away one at MSG like many arenas and given the age of the arena, worse than most if not the worse.
Always find it interesting the way they talk about the Hamilton Copps Colis. because I was very unimpressed with that arena when I visited. It’s more like the older NHL arenas.
I am not into ranking arenas, but I have been in a lot of arenas and different arenas from different levels: local, ECHL, AHL, NHL, OHL, WHL…
I still think the Joe Louis Arena and MSG are a lot of fun for a fan.
No question MSG lighting and seating configuration is interesting, especially watching on tv one notices the lighting, but I don’t find it bothersome in person watching games.
I grew up going to MSG (even Got GMGM’s autograph there after a game when I was about 8). And as a child of Manhattan I’m totally comfortable with people calling it a dump. I was just there a month or so ago and, “dump” was among the more charitable adjectives applied to The Garden by many o the NYR fans.
Country Gentlemen's Pig Fertilizer Gazette
Dunny-on-the-World
I have been to many many many games at MSG over many years, most recently was 2 years ago playoffs. I guess it depends on what one looks for at a game. Never said it was shiny new and beautiful, but I haven’t had the issues with the seating/bathrooms and other stuff I’ve had at some of the older arenas.
It definitely needed upgrades and they definitely let some stuff slide while they were deciding what to do. Hopefully some of the current work being done will help.
I think we’re talking at cross purposes here.
I’m saying (and saying that many NYR fans are also saying) that the building is pretty crappy. Old, in serious disrepair in the heating/plumbing/AC/electrical/concessions departmants, and technologically far behind in terms of sound and video.
I am in no way saying that the experience of MSG is any less enjoyable than any other storied Arena. I totally separate my opinion of the building with my opinion of the experience. As I would for say: Fenway Park, Wrigley Field, Yankee Stadium,(I have been to most of the Ball Parks on account of my very cool Grandpa) or the Igloo.
When one has those two simultaneous conditions (craptacular facility and Larger than Life History), it is incumbent on the City/Fans/Owners to replace or refurbish the facility, so that future generations get to have experiences that are not tied to past glory, but are carved from modern convenience and convention as well as being flavored by the nostalgia of History.
Country Gentlemen's Pig Fertilizer Gazette
Dunny-on-the-World
I understand the difference and that point.
I’m talking about the building not just the experience in my posts. I think in the last couple of years since they knew they were going to go for a new building or do the repairs, they have let things slide more than they had in the past. Some stuff was just old, but I thought they did a pretty good job in that building considering the age compared to many buildings I have been in for games.
Anyway, yes, the building is old and yes, they are making needed repairs…a good thing.
OT, but now one of these days, I hope the VC start repairing some of the stuff that needs repairing before it gets any worse (like the bathrooms.)
Agreed on Verizon. The concourses there are way too narrow, particularly when you compare them to the newer facilities like NJ and Pittsburgh. FWIW, I hear that the visitor’s lockerroom in Pittsburgh is phenomenal.
VC seems like it was the last arena built under that model. Kind of like how Cominsky II (which I think is going by the name US Cellular Field these days) was the last of it’s kind.
Pledge Drive 2010-2011: SO KIDS CAN!! Help build a playground
You could be right. The concourses seem wider at RBC Center – which opened two years after VC. I can’t speak to the locker rooms, but it’s in the midst of a giant parking lot like the old Capital Centre.
Walking around the concourse down in Tampa is like strolling down a four-lane highway compared to Verizon. To be fair, they’ve got a ton of real estate to build the St. Pete Forum, but intermission is certainly a lot more enjoyable.
I definitely have to do a lot of acrobatic dodging and weaving if I want to move through the VC concourse at speed. Must be nice at the newer stadiums.
by Berube Doobie Doo on Apr 18, 2011 3:14 PM EDT up reply actions
I’ve never felt that it was that hard to walk around on the concourse at VC, but I’m also a pretty small person. I think it also has to do with the people on the concourse who aren’t really delinating amongst themselves proper lanes of traffic.
by redpezrocket on Apr 18, 2011 3:16 PM EDT up reply actions
It has nothing to do with one’s size if one is among the average population. It has to do with the concourse, the set-up for concessions and in some cases but pretty much every game, inconsiderate fans, who don’t know how to line-up for beer lines and bathroom lines.
The arena concourses simply don’t function very well when the arena is sold out.
My most frustrating experience walking through a concourse is actually Giant Center in Hershey. I don’t know if the concourse had anything to do with it, but I did notice there were a lot more families, and kids don’t walk as quickly as adults.
After being in Hershey, I practically begged for Verizon Center’s clogged hallways.
by redpezrocket on Apr 18, 2011 3:22 PM EDT up reply actions
Any arena one visits frequently there are tricks to getting around, knowledge of where bottlenecks form, etc. I think they are quite comparable actually. Issue in Hershey is simply the speed at which many walk and yes, it can be quite annoying. At Verizon Center add in the lines blocking one’s way in a number of places.
There are realities to being in a crowded busy place and then there’s the stupid stuff like the direction some lines form or the brilliant people who stop in the middle of the concourse to chat with their friends….argh.
The line for the soft pretzel stand in the back of Giant Center is the biggest culprit; I try to avoid heading in that direction during intermission (though sometimes, I just can’t resist : )
My biggest complaint about VC are the Kiosks. It just seems that this year there are more of them, and they’re farther out away from the walls (and into the walking paths). I know everyone wants a large beer variety and ice cream in dot-form, but c’mon.
"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.
my biggest complaint is the line for the men’s room over by 430. Gentlemen, why on earth do you think it’s a GREAT idea to have your line go out into the concourse? Us ladies have figured out to keep the line close to the wall.
Pledge Drive 2010-2011: SO KIDS CAN!! Help build a playground
Yup. And then after the game they get annoyed when you cut through trying to head to the the Metro staircase.
"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 run them over like I’m a Flyers forward and I have a Caps goalie in my sights. No mercy!
Pledge Drive 2010-2011: SO KIDS CAN!! Help build a playground
Agreed, the VC is a terrible combo of inconsiderate attendees, and poorly staged concession stalls. Along one 60 ft stretch of wall: Main stairwell, Bathroom, and 3 different types of food stalls. And directly opposite the stairwell is the Dippin’ Dots Ice Cream vendor. Yeah, that facilitates the pedestrian flow, uh huh. What mental titan approved that design?
Country Gentlemen's Pig Fertilizer Gazette
Dunny-on-the-World
What mental titan approved that design?
I dunno. Maybe the same one who came up with those foam hockey stick hats that blocked my ability to see half the ice last game.
Worst. Giveaway. Ever. I felt like a dick asking the guy in front of me to take it off but it had to be done
"If you want money, go to the bank. If you want bread, go to the bakery. If you want goals, go to the net" -Brooks Laich
You’re braver than I am. The guy in front of me looked like Vin Diesel and he had two on, one for each side of his head. He looked like an elk wearing a Caps jersey.
by b.orr4 on Apr 18, 2011 4:10 PM EDT up reply actions 4 recs
thanks for the afternoon laugh. great picture you painted.
Pledge Drive 2010-2011: SO KIDS CAN!! Help build a playground
The concourse issue at VC is definitely an issue, but that’s due to the land they could purchase at the time of building. I don’t think they wanted it to be so narrow.
Definitely a city arena with little space and therefore issues with getting around and the amenities.
if it’s one or the other I’ll take the tight concourses over asphalt as far as the eye can see any day of the week.
Pledge Drive 2010-2011: SO KIDS CAN!! Help build a playground
Don’t know, assume for more expense it may have been possible to get more land, but maybe not given landowners and interests. I heard some stories about when Pollin was trying to buy up the land and issues with the property that became Gallery Place/movie theater, etc., but don’t know enough facts and details; perhaps some others here know more details.
Dallas is an example of a city arena with concourses with walking space; same with NJ and from what I recall although it’s been a few years, Toronto.
San Jose has the best concourses of any NHL arena I’ve been too. Great overall arena actually.
If you want to tell people the truth, make them laugh, otherwise they'll kill you.
From what I recall it was nice, yes. I think Dallas has some of the best from what I recall there, maybe Chicago or Minnesota, but I’d have to think through the arenas.
This is the same building that’s scheduled for a massive remodel this summer, right? So massive that they’re worried that even with the 2 games being played in Europe, it still won’t be ready for the team when they return?
"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.
It’s just gamesmanship. Whatever. Can’t believe anyone can get upset over it.
Don’t try to figure Sasha out. Just ride the wave.
Can’t believe anyone can get upset over it.
What do you think Bruce is hoping for?
by Berube Doobie Doo on Apr 18, 2011 2:37 PM EDT up reply actions
Oh, I think he’s trying to get under someone’s skin, but I also think he’s smart enough to know what he’s doing. He’s downplaying the loss, even as he complains about the quality (rather, lack thereof) of the referees.
If Tortorella insulted us as a crowd, what would we so?
Don’t try to figure Sasha out. Just ride the wave.
If Tortorella insulted us as a crowd
Well, I guess we’d mock him at our next home game. Maybe with ponchos.
by Berube Doobie Doo on Apr 18, 2011 2:46 PM EDT up reply actions 4 recs
And here we go..
http://www.nydailynews.com/blogs/rangers/2011/04/how-does-boudreaus-garden-groan
Don’t try to figure Sasha out. Just ride the wave.
But why would Boudreau even get into talking about the Garden and its crowd? Perhaps he wants to deflect from the defeat his team suffered yesterday
Worked, didn’t it?
Don’t try to figure Sasha out. Just ride the wave.
No, BB I think is who he meant
"If you want money, go to the bank. If you want bread, go to the bakery. If you want goals, go to the net" -Brooks Laich
Well I thought that was already obvious, so I guess I was wondering what you were getting at.
Don’t try to figure Sasha out. Just ride the wave.
I think he’s trying to get team to form an even tighter bond by creating the feeling that the entire city; the fans, the press, the refs are against them. All for one and one for all psychological ploy. Just a guess.
I don’t believe you.
Boss: "How's that task coming?" Alz: "Eh, it's trending Sasha." Boss: "What?" Alz: "..."
by Alz Well That Ends Well on Apr 18, 2011 3:34 PM EDT up reply actions
What’s funny is that the perception out is almost like BB went off half-cocked about MSG after being asked about the Rangers forecheck or something. Nobody talks about the wording of the question:
Q: Coach, I have a question about the Garden. MSG, one of the most historic arenas in sport. Everybody knows about it. But our place at the Verizon Center, much newer and much more shiny. Tell us about the Garden and the locker room. Do they keep it hot in there to, you know, smoke you out? Is it real tight and cramped? What is it about the Garden that you can tell us that we haven’t seen.
"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."
Bruce going off half-cocked about whatever happens to pop into his head at a given moment is pretty SOP for him. That he stuck to the (very leading) question is almost as newsworthy.
Pledge Drive 2010-2011: SO KIDS CAN!! Help build a playground
Guess who (not from WSH/NYR)?
But when you’re playing a game and [there’s] a constant stream to the penalty box because these guys are diving left and right … we have to start diving.
Somebody call the waaaahmbulance.
Lemme quote the late, great Colonel Sanders. He said "I'm too drunk to taste this chicken."
I’ve never been able to stand the Ducks. Bunch of dirty assholes and they whine about everything.
Pledge Drive 2010-2011: SO KIDS CAN!! Help build a playground
Ducks GM on Predators: ‘We have to start diving’
What a headline, ha!
by 7-Hole Glove Side on Apr 18, 2011 3:28 PM EDT up reply actions
___________
We’ve got to start diving because it’s working. It is working. They’re getting power plays because of the diving. I can go through the list of players. You already know who they are. You’ve seen them. It’s ridiculous."
They’re diving and it’s working. I’m sorry but we’ve got … it’s against my religion to play the game that way. But we’re going to have to do it. Gotta do it. Because it’s … I guess it’s what the league wants."
"Maybe our scouting, maybe our organization has to be up with the game," he said. "They’re over in Europe right now. They’re over there in a tournament. And I’m going to say bring me back some divers.
…lol?
Lemme quote the late, great Colonel Sanders. He said "I'm too drunk to taste this chicken."
by Chris Burton on Apr 18, 2011 3:31 PM EDT up reply actions
not from WSH/NYR
Come on man, I had a good BB joke for that, don’t cut me off at the knees.
"My favorite fan base in D.C. Is United's. Period. The end." - Steinberg
by Bald Pollack on Apr 18, 2011 3:38 PM EDT up reply actions
That’s pathetic.
"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 18, 2011 4:08 PM EDT up reply actions
They already started and are calling it a ‘transformation’. There’s a website and everything. It’s definitely an old arena waiting for upgrades (didn’t mean to imply it wasn’t.)
see
Like putting a table cloth on a pile of cow shit.
www.msgtransformation.com
"By far the worst performers on the team are in the front office." – Sally Jenkins
Steinberg has the number from Sports Business Journal for regular season viewership. The relevant nuggets:
The Caps viewership was 57% higher than that of the Wizards this season.
The Caps local ratings were up 12% over last season
The Caps ranked 8th in total local viewership among the US-based NHL teams
Puck Daddy posted the top 6 local ratings: Pittsburgh, Chicago, Boston, Detroit, Philly, and New York (I believe that’s specific for Rangers games). I’m going to take a guess that Buffalo is probably #7.
Pledge Drive 2010-2011: SO KIDS CAN!! Help build a playground
If history is an indicator...
We are 1-3 in Game 4 Under Boudreau.
GF:13
GA:14
After losing Game 4, the Caps have gone 1-2 in playoff series.
After winning game 4, the Caps have gone 0-1 in playoff series.
Not much to take out of this, one could argue that it doesn’t really matter what happens on Wednesday.
"The longer I delay myself getting to the real world, the better." - Mike Knuble
by Chaz-Capapalooza on Apr 18, 2011 3:38 PM EDT reply actions
John Riggins writing on the Caps?
There’s a source I look to for the latest Caps info. Right after Mike Wise.
Life With Spidey -- a blog about sports, travel, work, family and fun.
Representing Caps fandom in the Gateway to the West.
Hahaha
Tom Gulitti says
Kind of funny hearing Rangers’ fans call in to WFAN to say that the Boudreau is right as far as how loud it is at the Garden.
Don’t try to figure Sasha out. Just ride the wave.
by gfcaps fan on Apr 18, 2011 4:04 PM EDT reply actions 1 recs
Ma nishtana ha laila hazeh?
…because we have new content up now :)
Sunrise, sunset, swiftly fly the years. One season following another, laden with happiness and tears.
Did Becca just go Arabic on us?
"If you want money, go to the bank. If you want bread, go to the bakery. If you want goals, go to the net" -Brooks Laich
Never mind. Clicked the article. I was gonna say, the Arabic didn’t make much sense there…
"If you want money, go to the bank. If you want bread, go to the bakery. If you want goals, go to the net" -Brooks Laich
Ha! You weren’t far off…Hebrew. It means “why is this night different from the others?”, it’s a question we members of the tribe ask on Passover :)
Sunrise, sunset, swiftly fly the years. One season following another, laden with happiness and tears.
Haha gotcha. Yeah in Arabic it loosely translates into “didn’t you miss us on this night” after arranging the words into the right structure for Arabic. Which is why I said it didn’t make much sense. Makes sense now though.
"If you want money, go to the bank. If you want bread, go to the bakery. If you want goals, go to the net" -Brooks Laich
Figures.
Watching NHL Live. The latest and greatest History commercial is here. Yup, yesterday’s game winning goal.
Don’t try to figure Sasha out. Just ride the wave.
…you have GOT to be kidding me.
Sunrise, sunset, swiftly fly the years. One season following another, laden with happiness and tears.
Didn’t think you were ;)
Of all the goals in this series they pick that one? For real? Geez, at least Semin’s OT GWG was a pretty goal.
Sunrise, sunset, swiftly fly the years. One season following another, laden with happiness and tears.
They seem to be choosing one game a day. I agree that they should have used Semin’s goal, but I think that night it was from Vancouver. I totally expected they were going to grab something from the Rangers yesterday, I don’t know why.
Don’t try to figure Sasha out. Just ride the wave.
Because it was the early game, more realistically.
"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 18, 2011 6:00 PM EDT up reply actions
It’s the NHL. They go to bed dreaming of a NY-LA Finals. Alternately, they wake up screaming after dreaming about a Montreal-Vancouver Final.
It’s every professional sports league in North America. They go to bed dreaming of a NY-LA Finals.
FFY
"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."
“What if he had been offered a part in that porno?”
History will be made.
"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
and sometimes, History makes you cringe. I have no desire to see that limp caterpillar on my TV screen more than I absolutely have to.
Pledge Drive 2010-2011: SO KIDS CAN!! Help build a playground
TBL is passing out rally drums to their fans?! I would kill someone if the Caps did that.
That'll make your weagle wink!
The pants that bind us should be left behind us.
and Thunder Stix for game 4! my ears hurt already.
Pledge Drive 2010-2011: SO KIDS CAN!! Help build a playground
God yes. Thunder sticks etc are an abomination on the eardrums.
"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 18, 2011 9:06 PM EDT up reply actions
Well, not every arena is as loud as Verizon. Some need more help than others.
Don’t try to figure Sasha out. Just ride the wave.
I just hate noisemakers. Cowbells included.
That'll make your weagle wink!
The pants that bind us should be left behind us.
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