Tuesday Caps Clips
by J.P. on Jul 19, 2011 6:39 AM EDT
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Your savory breakfast links:
- Alex Ovechkin is a little bit excited that Tomas Vokoun is on his side now... [SB Nation DC]
- ... and be sure to check out the rest of AO's recent sit-down with Mike Vogel. [Caps365 (video), CI (Applebaum), ESPN]
- So far, so good this summer... [WashTimes (Whyno), CI (Carrera)]
- ... as Matt Hendricks would agree. [CI (Carrera)]
- Olie Kolzig is taking to his new role rather nicely. [WaPo (Carrera), RMNB]
- In case you missed any of the team's coverage of their Development Camp, here it is - all of it - in one place. [Capitals Overtime]
- By the way, Ovie's still a pretty good hockey player... [RLS]
- ... even if 34 players were better even-strength goal-scorers than he was last year. [TSN (Cullen)]
- In 2005 the CBC aired a documentary called "The Hockey Nomad Goes to Russia." Parts One, Two, and Three are linked here (there are more but you'll need to click for yourselves.) All of it is amazing, but beginning at about the two minute mark of Part Two (and continuing into Part Three) you will have a much deeper appreciation for "Zenia" Kuznetsov and his family and their journey. Bring tissues, and a sense of wonder. [Part One, Part Two, Part Three]
- Related: Part One features a couple of guys named Alex.
- Speaking of Kuznetsov, he participated in a recent photo shoot for HC Traktor. He says he's about 5 weeks ahead of schedule in his rehab and will accompany the team to their training camp in Switzerland, though he'll apparently be working out with the goalies. Traktor's preseason kicks off against Metallurg Magnitogorsk on August 15. [HC Traktor via GoogleTrans]
- Another farewell to Brads. [Blonde Girl's Guide]
- Finally, happy 38th birthday to Scott Walker.
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From RLS:
You heard it here first—Ovechkin will be a finalist for the Hart Trophy next season.
I think his decline is often overstated. He’s still an outstanding player.
He is an outstanding player, who is put in a position to be outstanding less often than in years past.
Ovechkin’s 5v5 OZone%
2008 58%
2009 58%
2010 56%
2011 51%
BGordon was swapped out for Halpern. Who else besides NB19 (i.e. the top line) will take def zone FOs?
"Shots aren't the important thing. Scoring chances are way more important than shots." - Bruce Boudreau
See my work on WaPo's Capitals Insider, ESPN Insider and Russian Machine Never Breaks (RMNB) Insider. I also log the Caps scoring chances. The 2010-11 summary spreadsheet is posted on Google Docs.
Follow me on Twitter @ngreenberg
In theory, Brooks Laich, no? Or did I dream that?
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
The default option that comes to mind is Laich (given that McPhee seems pleased with the team he’s got), but it that really what we’ll see going forward?
If you've read this far...seek help.
I have my doubts. I’m sure BB will be more-than-tempted to slot Laich at 2C, MoJo at 3C and we’ll see more of the same w/r/t zone starts. Hopefully I’m wrong.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
I too have my doubts. The components are in place to make this work:
8-19-22
28-90-Brouwer
Ward-21-Chimera
26-Halpern-Beagle
Will BB do what’s (theoretically) right?
"Shots aren't the important thing. Scoring chances are way more important than shots." - Bruce Boudreau
See my work on WaPo's Capitals Insider, ESPN Insider and Russian Machine Never Breaks (RMNB) Insider. I also log the Caps scoring chances. The 2010-11 summary spreadsheet is posted on Google Docs.
Follow me on Twitter @ngreenberg
On the plus side, if there’s one thing we can be pretty sure of, it’s that BB will try just about every conceivable line combination each period. I’m guessing it’ll be up to the individual performances to determine what sticks (though it’s easy to envision, “Yeah, I’d like to be able to put Brooks on the third line, but the way that second-line is clicking, I can’t break ’em up.”).
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
And it’s easy to envision that we may only have two lines that ever click, the first and the fourth. The second and third may be jumbled so much that we don’t really get to see what each unit can do.
Obviously, this is all speculation.
Perry also saw some puck luck go his way: On ice Sh% 10.87%. Good for 16th best in the NHL among forwards that played 40+ games and saw 10+ min of 5v5 time.
RMNB tshirt says that regresses in 2011-12.
"Shots aren't the important thing. Scoring chances are way more important than shots." - Bruce Boudreau
See my work on WaPo's Capitals Insider, ESPN Insider and Russian Machine Never Breaks (RMNB) Insider. I also log the Caps scoring chances. The 2010-11 summary spreadsheet is posted on Google Docs.
Follow me on Twitter @ngreenberg
How many FOs per game is that difference? Call me crazy, but I don’t think 1-2 FOs per game should have a dramatic impact on AO’s ability to score. I know the correlation zone starts have with Corsi, but this isn’t a Malhotra situation where you see lots of D zone starts and you can surmise tough on-the-fly assignments as well. AO and Nick only had more D zone starts because Nick had to win FOs. On the fly their usage was likely the same as it’s always been, aggressively offensive. I’m sure the 1-2 extra D zone starts per year may have had some minimal impact on his numbers, but no way are they responsible for the kind of drop he saw last year. A rebound in Sh% and a credible PP should change things more than his zone starts.
Obviously, this is all speculation.
by Rob Parker on Jul 19, 2011 9:22 AM EDT up reply actions 4 recs
How many power plays did those defensive zones cost Ovechkin? How’d he do on the power play, relative to last year?
Atta dinnin stick a who!
by Gould Old Days on Jul 19, 2011 9:53 AM EDT up reply actions
Down 6 PPGs and over 2 pts/60 at 5on4.
Red Line Station and @RedArmyLine, featuring coverage of the most frustrating team in the NHL
To help with basic Timeonice functions.
If I reference a lot of stats, just assume I haven't seen anything to contradict or invalidate them.
by red army line on Jul 19, 2011 12:26 PM EDT up reply actions
Call me crazy, but Joel Ward made some comments after July 1 that led me to believe Bruce might try slotting him in at center in a few games.
Tortorella: Can I get another question? I went in here in a pretty good mood today, too.
Larry Brooks: So did I.
Tortorella: Well, you obviously f***ed that up, didn't you?
Joel Ward took 168 faceoffs last year — 8th on the Predators. Caps have Backstrom, Johansson, Laich, Halpern, Hendricks, Beagle, Sjogren, and Eakin, who are all actually centers. I’d be pretty surprised to see Ward play the pivot on more than an emergency basis.
Atta dinnin stick a who!
by Gould Old Days on Jul 19, 2011 11:09 AM EDT up reply actions
Although I bet Ward would do as well as Eakin in the dot and maybe as well as Sjogren.
Obviously, this is all speculation.
by the end of the year, I’d bet on at least Sjogren passing Ward by
Atta dinnin stick a who!
by Gould Old Days on Jul 19, 2011 11:16 AM EDT up reply actions
I don’t think it’ll be on an emergency basis – I think Bruce will slot Ward in at center in an effort to shake up the lineup and get the line to click – but I’m pretty sure it’ll happen for two or three games. Ward has made comments about how he started working on faceoffs last year, and wants to continue that, and I think that’ll be enough for BB to try him at center.
Tortorella: Can I get another question? I went in here in a pretty good mood today, too.
Larry Brooks: So did I.
Tortorella: Well, you obviously f***ed that up, didn't you?
Do you think Boudreau is even aware of the trend in Ovie’s zone starts and what it might mean? Too bad no reporter will ever ask him or McPhee about this.
Do you think Boudreau is even aware of the trend in Ovie’s zone starts and what it might mean?
Yes, they are aware.
"Shots aren't the important thing. Scoring chances are way more important than shots." - Bruce Boudreau
See my work on WaPo's Capitals Insider, ESPN Insider and Russian Machine Never Breaks (RMNB) Insider. I also log the Caps scoring chances. The 2010-11 summary spreadsheet is posted on Google Docs.
Follow me on Twitter @ngreenberg
Haha. How was I cryptic? I answered question directly.
They read WaPo Caps Insider and this blog. They are aware.
"Shots aren't the important thing. Scoring chances are way more important than shots." - Bruce Boudreau
See my work on WaPo's Capitals Insider, ESPN Insider and Russian Machine Never Breaks (RMNB) Insider. I also log the Caps scoring chances. The 2010-11 summary spreadsheet is posted on Google Docs.
Follow me on Twitter @ngreenberg
So you think they come here and Wapo for strategy input?
Check out a new social network, Hockey Connect, a place for coaches, players, family and fans to share strategies and experiences.
You seriously think they aren’t tracking this on their own? That they aren’t aware until they read WP and Japers?
by vtcapsfan99 on Jul 19, 2011 11:44 AM EDT up reply actions
(pssst, Boudreau might have been dissembling)
Atta dinnin stick a who!
by Gould Old Days on Jul 19, 2011 3:15 PM EDT up reply actions
You seriously think they aren’t tracking this on their own? That they aren’t aware until they read WP and Japers?
That wasn’t the question. The question was
Do you think Boudreau is even aware of the trend in Ovie’s zone starts and what it might mean?
my answer is yes they are since it has been discussed here and in WaPo.
Do they track it on their own? They might. I doubt it.
"Shots aren't the important thing. Scoring chances are way more important than shots." - Bruce Boudreau
See my work on WaPo's Capitals Insider, ESPN Insider and Russian Machine Never Breaks (RMNB) Insider. I also log the Caps scoring chances. The 2010-11 summary spreadsheet is posted on Google Docs.
Follow me on Twitter @ngreenberg
…just wondering if you remembered some kind of public statement on the issue from a team source, or if it was from a private source, or an assumption.
Let’s put the origin of the source aside for a sec.
I don’t think it is too far fetched to assume that one of the most blog-friendly orgs in sports actually reads one of the most trafficked blogs that covers their team. Or the daily newspaper online, for that matter.
"Shots aren't the important thing. Scoring chances are way more important than shots." - Bruce Boudreau
See my work on WaPo's Capitals Insider, ESPN Insider and Russian Machine Never Breaks (RMNB) Insider. I also log the Caps scoring chances. The 2010-11 summary spreadsheet is posted on Google Docs.
Follow me on Twitter @ngreenberg
There’s also a difference between “read,” and read.
Armareddon.
by D'ohboy on Jul 19, 2011 12:05 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
We can parse this anyway you wan’t but take my word for it: They read. And read.
"Shots aren't the important thing. Scoring chances are way more important than shots." - Bruce Boudreau
See my work on WaPo's Capitals Insider, ESPN Insider and Russian Machine Never Breaks (RMNB) Insider. I also log the Caps scoring chances. The 2010-11 summary spreadsheet is posted on Google Docs.
Follow me on Twitter @ngreenberg
C’mon, Neil, don’t be coy. Tell us how you know, please.
And also if GM was in the Carter and Richards discussions.
Patron saint of quality footwear.
He was.
The definition of being a Caps fan is watching the same team over and over and expecting different results.
And also if GM was in the Carter and Richards discussions.
Not sure, unless it was him on the grassy knoll with Prof. Plum and the candlestick.
"Shots aren't the important thing. Scoring chances are way more important than shots." - Bruce Boudreau
See my work on WaPo's Capitals Insider, ESPN Insider and Russian Machine Never Breaks (RMNB) Insider. I also log the Caps scoring chances. The 2010-11 summary spreadsheet is posted on Google Docs.
Follow me on Twitter @ngreenberg
He's only 25...
the offensive changes over last season had to be a good reason why his production declined….
I love how multiple outlets reported on and imbedded the Ovi sit-down, and then felt compelled to also transcribe it. Is that for the benefit of people who can’t run the video at work? Just seems redundant. Either/or would seem to be sufficient.
Don’t try to figure Sasha out. Just ride the wave.
I love the transcriptions and FAR prefer them. They’re much easier to reference (i.e. quote directly) and they’re easier to consume at work (for people who can’t run video or audio or whatever).
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
by J.P. on Jul 19, 2011 7:44 AM EDT up reply actions 7 recs
if you listened to the video you’d realize the Washington Post transcription isn’t 100% accurate. Ovi isn’t that hard to understand but they have a fair number of words wrong. Nothing that really changes the meaning though.
Normally I like transcriptions because I can’t watch videos at work, but after both watching and reading this Ovi video and A. Dater for Varly press conference, I am thinking I should always watch the video later. Dater actually changed the meaning of some things Varly said.
And yet, oddly enough, the takeaway on the Ovechkin interview on other sites I’ve looked at is…
OVIE’S FAT!
This summer has been too long already.
If you've read this far...seek help.
by ThePeerless on Jul 19, 2011 7:58 AM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
I had the same thought. There was definitely a little paunch going on there under Steve McQueen. Then again, he was also slouched down in his seat.
Nice guys finish first, but sometimes the season is awfully long.
Follow me on Twitter.
Please. I’m betting that if you saw a pic of Kate Upton or Brooklyn Decker sitting in that seat, they’d look like they have a little bit going on in the middle, too. Ridiculous to judge based on that pic/video.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
(And given the seat and his posture, I’d say the better way to judge whether or not he “looks fat” is to look at his face… which looks less puffy to me than it did a year ago.)
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
I sort of thought that was Spidey’s point. I wanted to yell at him to sit up straight.
Don’t try to figure Sasha out. Just ride the wave.
Yes. That would be the intent of the word “slouch.”
Nice guys finish first, but sometimes the season is awfully long.
Follow me on Twitter.
Aye – not necessarily directed at you.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
Hah. So true. No slouching back is allowed or we will all start doing a daily Ovi weight watch. If he must slouch then he needs to lean forward like in his July the 4th photo with Carlson!!! Seriously I thought he looked pretty good—quite trim and dapper—in his other July photos while in the States (presumably when Vogs had a chance to interview him).
"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 Jul 19, 2011 9:15 AM EDT up reply actions
There have been many other people (on several blogs) who believe Ovi looks much better (and trimmer) than he was last summer.
On the weight front, his listed weight for last year was only 1 pound more than the previous year (where he had gained 10 pounds or so). He had changed trainers as his old trainer had moved to St. Petersburg so he started using Ilya Kovalchuk’s trainer. Obviously, neither of them had a very good year last year which leads me to wonder how good that trainer was. Of course, the overly hot weather in Moscow last year didn’t help either. So, the bottom line, Ovi had gained very little weight but was in worse condition. Although I think one of the main injuries affecting him last year wasn’t a matter of conditioning but more a slash to the wrist, courtesy of Weber of the Preds this past October.
Rocking the Red for teams on the banks of the Potomac and at the Gateway Arch and Singing the Blues about Hockey.
On the weight front, his listed weight for last year was only 1 pound more than the previous year (where he had gained 10 pounds or so).
His rookie year, people were wondering if Backstrom was physically mature enough for the NHL; the Caps listed him at 200. The next year, after he’d gotten a little chubby, they’d listed him at 180. Listed heights and weights don’t mean much.
I think the point here is that too much attention is being devoted to optics in poor resolution and not enough to what he has to say (the fine participants at the “letsgopens.com” message board are fairly obsessing over his appearance).
If you've read this far...seek help.
by ThePeerless on Jul 19, 2011 10:11 AM EDT up reply actions
Here's Ovie training at some Rapid Shot place back in Moscow
Looks ok to me. Probably he just needs to stop borrowing Sasha’s t-shirts and wear slightly larger t-shirts
Given Ovi’s body type, he looks absolutely cut in that photo. People have to understand that Ovi is a massive human being. He’s not going to look like one of those pretty boys in the Calvin Klein underwear ads.
Ryan Kesler is the same height as AO and yet he looks like a pretty boy. Dude is completely ripped. No reason AO can’t be like that.
Obviously, this is all speculation.
Height is different from body type. Plenty of guys around the league are Ovechkin’s height but aren’t built the same way.
"Now wait a minute. This is just purely a social call. You know, just two adults getting a stew on, man."
by The Ghost of Bebop on Jul 19, 2011 10:05 AM EDT up reply actions
Are they not built the same way because they don’t train the same way? Maybe they aren’t quite as broad shouldered, though Kesler isn’t a small guy, but there is no reason AO can’t cut down the body fat and have a more ripped physique.
Obviously, this is all speculation.
I completely agree that there’s no reason Ovechkin shouldn’t be in tip-top shape, but two people can be the same height and in the same approximate physical shape and still have different body types thanks to genetics.
To use the NBA as an example (since without pads it’s easier to see what kind of shape guys are in), look at Kevin Durant and Dwight Howard.They’re both listed at around 6’9, but Howard is ridiculously broad-shouldered and cut, while Durant is much, much slimmer. Now, Howard’s a few years older and has packed on a lot more muscle than Durant, but Durant will still never look like Howard.
"Now wait a minute. This is just purely a social call. You know, just two adults getting a stew on, man."
by The Ghost of Bebop on Jul 19, 2011 10:15 AM EDT up reply actions
And I’d bet their body fat content is probably similar. That’s all I ask for.
Obviously, this is all speculation.
Yeah, no doubt, if only because Durant is twig-like.
"Now wait a minute. This is just purely a social call. You know, just two adults getting a stew on, man."
by The Ghost of Bebop on Jul 19, 2011 10:21 AM EDT up reply actions
Kesler’s got defined muscles but he definitely has a slimmer frame – something that won’t change regardless of how they train. Ovi’s frame is definitely broader than Kesler’s. Maybe he could get a more "ripped" look if he trained differently but he’d still look bigger than Kesler, Kes is a twig with muscles.
The definition of being a Caps fan is watching the same team over and over and expecting different results.
I’m sure nobody would characterize Kesler that way if they were next to him. In person I bet he looks carved from marble and in no way twiggy.
Either way, my point isn’t that their bodies should be identical, it’s that AO has no excuse for carrying extra weight that isn’t going to help him play hockey, i.e. fat.
Obviously, this is all speculation.
I’m not saying Kesler is a scrawny pre-teen or anything – far from it, I’m well aware that he’s in great shape (we all saw him in spandex a few years ago). My point is that he’s taken a very skinny, slender frame and built serious muscle on top of it, as opposed to a guy like Ovi who definitely has a broader frame to begin with.
…and yes, I’d agree that he shouldn’t be carrying extra fat. I don’t think that’s necessarily the case right now, though, just because he doesn’t have a six-pack. He’s always had that barrel-chested look to him – his muscles are in his upper chest and shoulders. I’d agree w/ JP that the true way to tell is to look at his face, and his face looks much slimmer than in the past.
The definition of being a Caps fan is watching the same team over and over and expecting different results.
He absolutely should have a six pack. Glamour muscles are nice, but the core is a hockey player’s bread and butter. Lots of barrel chested guys end up with large chest/shoulder muscles and a 6 pack. Look at just about any NFL linebacker. AO doesn’t need as much upper body strength as those guys, either.
Obviously, this is all speculation.
Having a six-pack is actually pretty unrelated to core strength. It’s purely a reflection of body fat percentage and how that body fat is distributed. I used to know guys in the Army with completely ripped six packs who couldn’t pass the sit-up portion of the PT test.
Armareddon.
by D'ohboy on Jul 19, 2011 11:48 AM EDT up reply actions 3 recs
Fair enough, but when you burn as many calories as these guys should be burning, and when you have to worry about maintaining energy and strength over the course of a full game, there’s still no reason to be carrying enough excess fat that you cover up a 6 pack.
Obviously, this is all speculation.
the body fat percentage required to show a six pact is pretty damn low. and in Ovechkin’s case, it’s pretty clear he carries any extra weight and fat in his mid-section, exactly like his father. He’s probably just one of those people who will never have well-defined ab muscles, no matter how “in-shape” he may be.
Caps fans aren’t on the ledge; they’ve already jumped, and are merely trying to drag others into a mournful descent with them..--Stienz
Pledge Drive 2010-2011: SO KIDS CAN!! Help build a playground
Maybe I’m in the minority, but that doesn’t really fly with me. Look at Mike Green’s dad, yet when he’s committed Green is able to avoid ballooning (though he also showed how easy it is for him to balloon). In your 20s you can overcome those genetics, especially if you are burning calories at the rate a pro athlete should be burning them.
Obviously, this is all speculation.
Eh, I’m not as much of a stickler on the six pack. Most of the players on the Caps don’t have one and in fact a lot of them look like they have beer guts but actually have ripped midsections (Scott Walker in 2010, for example).
But I do think it’s fair to assume that Ovie can be more ripped than he was last year.
most professional body builders have beer guts when they aren’t flexing.
Aim for the head baby Jesus
But body building and NHL hockey are different because of the ratio of aerobic/anaerobic exercise they have. Body Builders need slightly more endurance than bowlers.
I’d rather an NHL player look closer to an Iron Man competitor than a weight lifter.
Obviously, this is all speculation.
I’d rather an NHL player look closer to an Iron Man competitor than a weight lifter.
Honestly, I’d go with the weight lifter. Olympic weight lifters are in absurdly good shape and have very little body fat since they compete in weight classes. Yeah, there are some fatties at the higher weight classes, but at the lower levels, those guys have freakish power-to-weight ratios.
Meanwhile, there are many elite endurance athletes who can’t do 10 pushups or have vertical jumps of like 10 inches.
Armareddon.
Eh, neither is ideal. It’s not really good either way. Weight lifters may have lower fat from the weight class thing but I’m sure one twirl around the rink and a lot of those guys would be gassed. At least you know an iron man isn’t going to run out of gas. Arm/upper body strength is less important to me.
Obviously, this is all speculation.
Olympic weight lifters (snatch, clean and jerk) are some of the best athletes in the world. Their fitness, which involves rapid explosive movements, is far more suited to hockey than someone who runs 26 miles in a row. Hockey shifts are ideally 45 seconds long. The ability to run a marathon is useless for a hockey player.
Armareddon.
An ironman consists of:
A marathon;
a 112 mile bike ride; and
a 2.4 mile swim.
None of which are particularly relevant for a hockey player.
Armareddon.
by D'ohboy on Jul 19, 2011 2:09 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
Except that guys that have conditioning to do that can probably also handle the skating that you’d need for an NHL game. I’m not convinced a weight lifter wouldn’t be gassed after a period. Whatever, neither is a particularly good comparison.
Obviously, this is all speculation.
I’m going to say the ideal comparison based on D’oh’s requirement of “rapid explosive movements” and your requirement for endurance is… the male porn star.
Can this topic be over now?
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
by J.P. on Jul 19, 2011 2:17 PM EDT up reply actions 5 recs
You put a team of Ironmen competitors up against a team of Olympic weightlifters and I guarantee you that the weightlifters would destroy the Ironmen. People have this misconception that endurance athletes are somehow “more fit” than other athletes because they’re skinnier. They’re not. They’re just skinnier and more aerobically fit.
Armareddon.
by D'ohboy on Jul 19, 2011 2:25 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
I don’t know how you could possibly make that claim without stipulating a ton of other stuff.
Obviously, this is all speculation.
exactly. Green has a cheeseburger and we all know it. It’s the same with Ovechkin. Genetics, in this case, aren’t working in their favor.
What’s with the hang-up on a six pack, anyway? You can have incredible strong abs and core strength without a visible six pack.
Caps fans aren’t on the ledge; they’ve already jumped, and are merely trying to drag others into a mournful descent with them..--Stienz
Pledge Drive 2010-2011: SO KIDS CAN!! Help build a playground
It’s more about the ability to cut the excess weight and work with only what you need. It’s an indication of commitment and how much energy you are burning outside game situations. I just don’t see how a person can burn as much energy as you burn playing hockey and put on fat if you are diligent in your conditioning and still in your 20s.
Obviously, this is all speculation.
Some body types can never get a six-pack no matter what they do. Ovie is near that dividing line. His middle is like many rugby players (or hula/belly dancers) strong but convex. Although his body thickness is not conducive to a six-pack, he can achieve it if the way he exercises (and eats) is completely overhauled; however, for his body type, that would leave him at a disadvantage for hockey (he’d lose the strength and bulk where he needs it to be good at his game).
Yes, he can afford to be a few pounds lighter than he has been the past two season, but he really needs to regain his explosivenss, recovery, and stamina – those aren’t six-pack issues.
Genetics are against him since he is built like his father, but the “Boudreau stomach” can be avoided with diligence in his post-playing years. After retirement, the right diet and exercise can keep genetics in check (not that it will be easy).
(Yes, I know about the avatar hounding - just pretend mine is invisible.)
by oldemystix on Jul 19, 2011 1:33 PM EDT up reply actions 2 recs
And I’m telling you that I know plenty of cyclists with BF% under 10 that don’t have six-packs because they’re just not built that way.
If Ovie’s overtraining in order to get a six-pack, then he’s wasting his time and energy doing cardiovascular workouts.
Armareddon.
And these guys are elite athletes at the top of their competition? How many beer guys cycle around France every year? How many Olympic gymnasts are carrying pudge? How many Olympic swimmers aren’t ripped (fat helps you float!)? How many professional soccer players have love handles?
Obviously, this is all speculation.
Even a young in his prime Maradona wasn’t thin:
http://www.topnews.in/sports/files/Diego-Maradona1.jpg
most female olympic gymnasts (most, but not all) don’t have visible six-packs. and that’s because of the extreme low body fat required to achieve that defined look. Those who do have a visible six pack are usually pre-pubescent, or are suffering from any number of disordered eating habits, as well as amenorrhea, and set themselves up for a lifetime of consequences. Because a diagnosis of Osteoporosis at 30 is so much fun.
the guys seem pretty evenly split. So do, some don’t. they’re all insanely strong.
Caps fans aren’t on the ledge; they’ve already jumped, and are merely trying to drag others into a mournful descent with them..--Stienz
Pledge Drive 2010-2011: SO KIDS CAN!! Help build a playground
Ok, but getting away from the six pack specifically, how many of them are carrying excess fat? Fat that is just a result of their recreational behavior combined with not working it off?
Obviously, this is all speculation.
guys or girls? the girls largely starve themselves year round, the guys binge on pizza 6 months of the year and work out like mad the other 6 to get into shape.
even with the guys, there’s a whole lot of screwed up (lack of) eating going on. the nature of having to wear spandex, I suppose. So, yeah, not a lot of excess fat. But there’s a bunch of negative physical and mental health consequences in that sport in particular.
Caps fans aren’t on the ledge; they’ve already jumped, and are merely trying to drag others into a mournful descent with them..--Stienz
Pledge Drive 2010-2011: SO KIDS CAN!! Help build a playground
I’m mostly talking about dudes, since that’s the relevant group for a discussion of NHL players.
The long term ramifications are a whole other issue, and AO can feel free to weigh them. But as long as he’s being paid 9+ million to play hockey, he should do everything he can do (legally) to be the most effective hockey player he can be while collecting salary.
Obviously, this is all speculation.
That’s just it though, he has to want to be the best. It’s gonna sound like a stupid sports cliche, but it goes back to when scouts talk about a guy who “wants to win” vs. a guy who “hates to lose.” I used to think I knew which category Ovie fit into.
You just named sports for which you need to be in a certain shape to perform, and it’s not always the standard "he’s chiseled" look I think people are expecting. Cyclists are skinny w/ some muscle, swimmers have incredibly broad upper bodies but flat, thin torsos, etc.
Also interesting that you’ve left out two other groups of elite athletes – football and baseball players, many of whom are elite athletes at the top of their competition and many of whom don’t look like they’re "in shape". They’re in shape based on what their sport demands. Ovi was out of shape last year, I have no problem admitting that, but he’s never looked like the traditional chiseled, six-pack-wielding god. I’m more concerned with his explosiveness this year – I’m guessing that’s legs and whatever cardio they do to allow for short, quick bursts of speed – and his ability to be physical – which, yes, requires him to carry a bit of weight – than I am with him having a six-pack.
The definition of being a Caps fan is watching the same team over and over and expecting different results.
I talked about football. With the exception of the linemen and a couple QBs those guys are pretty damn chiseled. The linemen need weight because they need to anchor. QBs don’t have the same sort of aerobic requirements.
And baseball? Completely different, I thought that was facially obvious. It’s a sport that revolves around two skills, throwing a ball hard and hitting a ball. Lots of “five tool guys” are around, but you don’t have to be in shape to be great. If you can hit a ball like Prince Fielder, you will have a job. If you can throw a ball like C.C. Sabathia, you will have a job. If you look at the Center Fielders and SS you don’t see the heavyweights playing those positions. The guys that need to run are in shape.
If his weight is muscle, then fine, that’s functional weight. My beef is with non-functional weight. And no, the “padding effect” is not functional weight. You may have noticed the extra gear they wear to provide that padding. They don’t need to bring their own from home.
Obviously, this is all speculation.
by Rob Parker on Jul 19, 2011 12:43 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
I know baseball is different. Hockey is different, too. These guys aren’t soccer players who are running constantly, they train differently and need different strengths. Ever notice how most of them have skinny chicken-leg calves? There are tons of hockey players who, with their shirts off, maybe don’t have the chiseled look to them that other athletes do but they’re still elite and able to perform as such.
Ovi’s weight was out of control last year, imo, I’m not disagreeing with you there. But I think in years past he’s been more fit and still hasn’t looked like what you seem to want him to look like.
And I wasn’t referring to any extra weight as padding, that’d be dumb. I mean it simply as a momentum thing – a hit thrown by a guy who is 235 pounds is going to hurt a bit more than one who is 200, no?
The definition of being a Caps fan is watching the same team over and over and expecting different results.
The calves is a separate issue. That’s about which muscles they need to build up, not the physical conditioning. The game isn’t as different from soccer as you think it is, in terms of the physical demands on the body.
And it totally depends on the 235 v. 200 thing. Lots of factors are at play, if you want to ceteris paribus them all then yeah 235 probably hurts more, but it’s not a real ceteris paribus situation.
Obviously, this is all speculation.
Not that I was ever in pro athletic shape but even when my BF% dipped below 15, I had a beer gut pudge. I still have one now and my BF% is well below 20. Any fat I carry, I carry it right in my stomach.
If I played hockey professionally, it might not be there. Given how close I was to my prime in athletic ability I bet I still would have a pudge just because that is where all my fat goes.
Comrades, leave me here a little, while as yet 't is early morn:
Leave me here, and when you want me, sound upon the bugle-horn
You keep bringing up this season. I don’t think a single person in this discussion has said Ovi was in fantastic shape this year. What we’re all saying is that he looked worse than usual but in general he’s always looked thick and solid rather than cut.
The definition of being a Caps fan is watching the same team over and over and expecting different results.
He was cut before. You’re telling me that you can read more from his conditioning based on watching him on the ice than seeing him without a shirt on? I call bullshit.
Obviously, this is all speculation.
…what?
The definition of being a Caps fan is watching the same team over and over and expecting different results.
So everyone agrees he was out of shape, but nobody wants to say that he looks out of shape? His appearance is irrelevant? That means everyone is gleaning his lack of conditioning from watching him play, something someone else said, or thin air. It seems to me the easiest way for most people on this board to confirm it would be to look at him. I think it’s far less likely that we can watch him play and draw the kind of conclusions about his conditioning that you can draw from seeing him on 24/7.
Obviously, this is all speculation.
by Rob Parker on Jul 19, 2011 1:19 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
I’m saying he was – and looked – out of shape last season. I’m talking about on ice, I’m talking about his shirtless moments in 24/7, I’m talking about all of it.
However I’m also saying that if you went back and looked at pics of Ovi from seasons where there was no discussion of how fit he was, seasons where he performed at the top of his game – both on the ice and in off-ice interviews when he’s just wearing his spandex-y stuff, the times where he was shirtless in years past – he looked more in shape than he does now but never had the ripped, cut, chiseled look to him. Not once.
And now I’m done talking about Ovi’s physique, because we’re trying to guess his fitness based on a pic and a video taken in mid-July. Which is insane.
The definition of being a Caps fan is watching the same team over and over and expecting different results.
The thing is, I don’t know what “in shape” Ovie looks like. I can only judge by what I see on the ice.
Like it or not, some guys can be in phenomenal shape without looking ripped. Other guys can be ripped but be totally out of shape. Without access to things like:
Vertical Jump
40 yd-time
Time to completion for 1 Herbie
Deadlift
Squat
- of Pushups
- of Pullups
I’ve really got no way to adequately quantify his fitness. Going by how he looked in one video just isn’t going to tell you much.
Armareddon.
by D'ohboy on Jul 19, 2011 1:25 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
Key issue here: is AO in better shape this year than he was last year?
Based on the video of the Vogel interview, it’s possible he’s not.
Patron saint of quality footwear.
But based on other pictures, it’s also possible he is. In all probability we won’t know until training camp.
"Now wait a minute. This is just purely a social call. You know, just two adults getting a stew on, man."
by The Ghost of Bebop on Jul 19, 2011 1:16 PM EDT up reply actions
I don’t know. I saw a picture of him from a few weeks ago and he looked great – it’s very possible that the position he was in during the video (and I haven’t seen it so I don’t know) made him look bigger.
Whatever. I’m reserving judgment until training camp, that’s when we could tell last year.
The definition of being a Caps fan is watching the same team over and over and expecting different results.
Like this?
You can be think and solid and be cut at the same time…
And I’m done.
"Neuvy was eating pucks for breakfast, lunch, and dinner."
by SeattleCapsFan on Jul 19, 2011 1:17 PM EDT up reply actions
You can. You can also be thick and solid and NOT cut and still be in shape. The fact that any of us pretend to know how fit he is or is not based on what we assume is the “perfect” physique for a hockey player (an assumption that is proven to be wrong by multiple elite hockey players walking around with their shirts off) is downright silly.
The definition of being a Caps fan is watching the same team over and over and expecting different results.
Question: Could this line of discussion be any more ridiculous? If anyone can gather anything about a dude’s physical fitness by simply looking at him, you certainly can’t by looking at him sitting down and semi-hunched over. What the hell is going on here?
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
by J.P. on Jul 19, 2011 1:22 PM EDT up reply actions 10 recs
I’m not even talking about any of the interview pictures, I’m talking about 24/7. But it’s still ridiculous. Whatever, he’s a golden god.
Obviously, this is all speculation.
Which was 8 months ago.
Let’s all drop it, shall we? This is getting (getting?) stupid and we’re talking in circles. Maybe he’ll do a shirtless calendar for us all next season so this discussion never has to take place again.
The definition of being a Caps fan is watching the same team over and over and expecting different results.
No, I agree that his fitness was sub-par last year. I just don’t agree with how you’re assessing it. He looked slow. He was unable to turn the corner and get wide on defensemen, so he relied on his “cut to the middle” move way too often.
Armareddon.
Now you are into another assumption. Did he rely on cut to the middle because of conditioning or personal choice, I suspect the latter, though I’d love the answer. D stopped giving him the corner, they played him differently, and he thought he had the space to cut to the middle. Now they’ve basically taken away both. He needs a new attack plan regardless of conditioning.
Obviously, this is all speculation.
Some of them are, yes. Watch the movie “Chasing Legends.” Those guys are freakishly thin, but some do not have “six packs.”
For what it’s worth, I flit in and out of having a six pack these days. If I’m down around 155 lbs, I’ve got one. When I creep up over 160 (as I have recently), I don’t. Regardless, I wouldn’t say I’m in better shape for hockey than I was when I weighed 175 lbs and didn’t have a six pack. My core was probably stronger back then, too.
Armareddon.
Generally, the six pack is muscle for show, not muscle for “go”.
by SethB on Jul 19, 2011 12:24 PM EDT up reply actions 2 recs
He’s always had that barrel-chested look to him – his muscles are in his upper chest and shoulders.
Agreed 100%. Looking at a guy’s body and saying he’s not in great shape because he’s not cut like a model is a bit simplistic. Talk to a physiologist (my wife happens to be one) and they’ll tell you that depending on your body-type achieving that chiseled-look can actually be detrimental to overall performance. If you go back and look at Ovechkin when he first broke into the league, you’ll see that he’s never had the dream physique of ripped muscles and litlle body fat.
I’d also argue that being that hyper-low in bodyfat might actually be detrimental to a player in a physical sport like hockey. Fat is needed to cushion things – if you get too low, you start increasing the odds of injury in contact sports.
Armareddon.
Does that outweigh the other negative impacts of carrying fat? Are you worried about protecting joints/bones or protecting muscle? If fat was really conducive to protection, and not an impediment, then why are so many guys in the NFL and NHL completely ripped? NFL linemen are the only position that routinely carry excess weight, and that has less to do with cushioning and more to do with anchoring.
Obviously, this is all speculation.
I think there are probably as many guys in the NHL without six-packs as there are with them. I don’t know for sure, since I don’t spend much time looking at half-naked pictures of NHL players.
What I do know is that the presence of a six-pack is not necessarily an indication of anything other than a guy who doesn’t carry body fat in his midsection.
As for the impacts of the fat – sure, too much is not good. But if I were Ovie’s trainer, I wouldn’t be focused on his body fat percentage – I’d be focused on his ability to do the things he needs to on the ice. Losing body fat is just a means to an end – not an end in itself (unless you’re a fitness model).
In other words, if Kesler lost his six-pack, but got stronger and faster, that would be better for him.
Armareddon.
Well, maybe not for Kesler, since his #1 activity seems to be showing up half-naked in the background of teammates’ interviews.
Boss: "How's that task coming?" Alz: "Eh, it's trending Sasha." Boss: "What?" Alz: "..."
by Alz Well That Ends Well on Jul 19, 2011 12:14 PM EDT up reply actions
So when you saw AO prancing around on 24/7 you didn’t have any red flags go off?
Obviously, this is all speculation.
Not really, no. Not by looks anyhow. I’ve spent a large portion of my life around some phenomenal athletes in different modalities and I’ve just learned not to judge people’s abilities by their looks. It’s never accurate. If you were to come to one of my bike races and attempt to pick out the winner based on looks alone I’m guessing you’d never get it right more often than 1/n, with n being the number of cyclists in the race.
Armareddon.
That’s in part because you can’t discern pharmacological excellence solely from physique, though, right?
Patron saint of quality footwear.
by fat_daddyo on Jul 19, 2011 12:55 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
And the fact that at lower levels of competition you can compensate for conditioning by having more talent. Once you reach the elite tier the differences in conditioning have a larger impact because the skill disparity is so much smaller.
Obviously, this is all speculation.
And what I’m telling you is that your measurement of athleticism based on one criteria alone, i.e., “ripped-ness” is materially misleading.
Armareddon.
I’m not measuring athleticism. I’m measuring whether or not he’s in top shape.
Obviously, this is all speculation.
And you’re equating “top shape” with how ripped someone is. And I keep trying to tell you that’s not how it works.
Armareddon.
So AO was out of shape and it had nothing to do with his extra non-muscle weight.
Obviously, this is all speculation.
Hardy har har. I’d be willing to bet there are many more guys using PEDs in the NHL than there are in the pro peloton. Cycling just goes after dopers. The NHL and NFL just prefer to pretend nothing’s wrong.
Armareddon.
And yet despite the heightened screening plenty of cyclers still get caught.
Obviously, this is all speculation.
They get caught because they’re looking. Nobody gets caught in the NFL and NHL because nobody’s looking.
It’s really easy to seem clean when you don’t do any testing.
“Nothing to see here.”
Armareddon.
by D'ohboy on Jul 19, 2011 1:22 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
It’s also pretty dumb to get yourself caught when you know they are looking. Why do they risk getting caught when they know they are looking? I suspect it’s an element of “everyone is doing it so I’m boned if I don’t.”
Obviously, this is all speculation.
Are you referring to cycling or other sports?
W/R/T cycling, the riders who get caugh presumably believe they can’t be caught if they “do it right.” Some of them must be making mistakes. In other cases, they get caught because of police investigations or because new tests are developed to scan for previously undetectable drugs like CERA.
Armareddon.
There’s definitely cultural differences. A few years ago the NFL RoY was caught using steroids, and got only an 8-game suspension. And the media was not up in arms about it as they would have been if it’d been a baseball player.
Never mind that steroids are far more useful to a football player than a baseball player.
Geeks of All Nations, Compile!
Brute strength matters more in football. Steroids don’t, as far as I know, increase your ability to hit a baseball, just to hit it farther. You already have to be a damn good hitter.
Eat, drink, and be merry! And then drink some more.
Also, steroids make it much easier to recover from injuries, which are more likely in the NFL due to the sport’s physical nature.
"Now wait a minute. This is just purely a social call. You know, just two adults getting a stew on, man."
by The Ghost of Bebop on Jul 19, 2011 4:30 PM EDT up reply actions
Although they’d be very helpful for pitchers to recover. And given the grind of an MLB season I think there probably are players that use steroids to recover more quickly from nagging injuries.
Obviously, this is all speculation.
recovery, particularly from nagging injuries, is by far the most common reason for ballplayers to use.
Caps fans aren’t on the ledge; they’ve already jumped, and are merely trying to drag others into a mournful descent with them..--Stienz
Pledge Drive 2010-2011: SO KIDS CAN!! Help build a playground
But you also have to have the requisite foot speed and coordination to be a football player. Steroids just let you do that with more strength. Hitting a baseball harder/farther is undoubtedly an advantage.
Obviously, this is all speculation.
Right, I wasn’t saying steroids don’t help baseball players, just that they may help football players a good bit more. Pure athleticism/strength is more important in football, no? I know CFs have to be fleet of foot but I don’t see David Ortiz fitting in at any football position.
(Although, Ortiz juiced. So what the hell do I know?)
Eat, drink, and be merry! And then drink some more.
I just don’t think it’s as cut and dry as “steroids help X sport athletes more than Y sport athletes.” If strength, power, recovery, and energy are important in your sport, steroids will help. If those things aren’t important, you’re probably not playing a sport.
Obviously, this is all speculation.
Definitely. I was just trying to reckon with the “specialized” aspect of hitting a baseball (didn’t earn the moniker “hardest thing to do in sports” for nothing).
Eat, drink, and be merry! And then drink some more.
Right, steroids can’t give you the hand eye coordination, it just makes better use of it. I think that’s the same with the rest of the athletic skills though. It’s not going to make the LB run faster or be more agile, it’s just going to make him more violent when he uses those skills to get where he needs to be.
Obviously, this is all speculation.
There’s actually some debate about whether it even helps you hit the ball further, as it helps upper body strength while hitting power mostly comes from strong hip rotation. I should dig up the link on that.
Geeks of All Nations, Compile!
take ’roids, allowing you to recover quicker from workouts=strengthening core that allows you to produce that strong hip rotation.
Caps fans aren’t on the ledge; they’ve already jumped, and are merely trying to drag others into a mournful descent with them..--Stienz
Pledge Drive 2010-2011: SO KIDS CAN!! Help build a playground
Why couldn’t you take ‘roids to increase your lower body strength? I don’t see any reason to assume they only do it to increase arm and shoulder strength.
Obviously, this is all speculation.
My understanding, and I’m not an expert, so I could certainly be wrong, is that it just doesn’t do as much there. It doesn’t have anything to do with intention, so far as I know.
Geeks of All Nations, Compile!
by AMusingFool on Jul 19, 2011 10:38 PM EDT up reply actions
I buy the NHL in that. I think the NFL is pretty committed to testing and sanctioning users.
But, yes, to your larger point, it was a cheap shot. Sorry.
Patron saint of quality footwear.
I think the NFL is pretty committed to testing and sanctioning users.
Are. You. Fucking. High?
I’d be shocked if fewer than 75% of NFL players were using HGH or some form of anabolic steroids. Not just shocked, fucking flabbergasted. They do essentially ZERO out of competition, random, unannounced testing. The NFL’s drug-testing policy is an absolute fucking joke.
Armareddon.
by D'ohboy on Jul 19, 2011 1:22 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
Seriously. The NFL is a laughingstock when it comes to PEDs. They all but shove the needle in the players’ asses for them.
Armareddon.
And no blood tests for HGH in MLB. As I understand it, don’t you need to test for HGH with a blood sample?
Obviously, this is all speculation.
Yes. I believe so. (But I’m not 100% sure.)
Regardless, I think it’s funny that cycling and MLB get hammered for being “dirty” because they test so much (and therefore catch people) while the NHL, NBA and NFL all get a free pass – not because they’re clean, but because they simply don’t test with any rigor.
Armareddon.
Actually, this isn’t true. I know they do some unannounced testing in the off season. I’ve seen Ochocinco and T.O. talking about it before. Chris Cooley has also blogged about it.
Every season in the NFL there are people getting in trouble for using stuff and suspended (Brian Cushing, Star Caps case).
If you read about Ochocinco’s drug test, it was:
A) not unannounced – they put a sign in his locker
B) not during the offseason
The dude complains about getting tested once or twice – look up all of Lance Armstrong’s tweets about drug testing some time. Pro cyclists have guys randomly showing up at their house to test them. One guy actually got busted for not telling the testers where he was when they came looking.
The NFL’s drug testing protocol is babytown frolics.
Armareddon.
Two things:
1. If you read that closely, you can see that it’s not actually Chris Cooley blogging.
2. The guy blogging pretty clearly states that he was tested by the NCAA (not the NFL), and that he was only tested during the season.
15 tests in 5 years is nothing, especially if they all come during the season. A top rider in the Tour de France could be tested that often during one grand tour.
Armareddon.
If you read it even closer, there are interjections by Chris Cooley where he mentions off season drug testing.
Cooley Interjection:
15 times? I laugh at that. I easily knock out 15 a year.
Cooley interjection:
I once spent over two hours in the bathroom with a large black man while I tried to overcome a case of the stage fright. It was the off season and I had just finished up a workout, showered, pissed in the shower and got ready to head home. On my way out of the locker room the guy grabs me and says “Glad I caught you, I would have had to drive out to your house tonight.”
by vtcapsfan99 on Jul 19, 2011 3:46 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
off season drug testing./blockquote>
On my way out of the locker room the guy grabs me and says "Glad I caught you, I would have had to drive out to your house tonight."/blockquote>
Cooley is in the locker room. It’s clearly not a random, unannounced out of season drug test.
Armareddon.
Cooley works out in the off season at the skins practice facility since he lives in VA year round. He clearly said he was on the way out when he was grabbed for the urine test. I don’t know what your definition of random, unannounced, and off season are, but that clearly fits the bill to me.
Agree to disagree on this one because we are obviously OT here.
Or this. (Why do you think the players don’t want WADA involved?
Even the guy who got busted only missed 4 games.
Armareddon.
You seem to think I am saying the drug testing in the NFL is equivalent to other sports. I never said that, I was merely arguing your assertion that it was nonexistent or barely existent in the NFL. Being tested at least 15 times a year is not nothing, although it’s not exactly what Lance Armstrong goes through either. There is off-season testing and it is unannounced at times.
Plenty of posters (if not all) thought there was a conditioning issue last season. He doesn’t have to have a six pack showing in pictures to be able to state that his conditioning could have changed.
Several people here have noted, 6 pack is not the only indicator nor always possible.
Also, a bit of a technicality, but not everyone can have a six pack. Some people’s ab muscles just don’t split like that – TLDR some people can only achieve a 4 pack due to genetics.
Kesler probably wouldn’t get faster, but he’d certainly be faster and harder to move off the puck. Which is pretty much Ovie’s playstyle. Yeah he’s decently fast but he’s not even close to fastest on team.
After doing a little digging, after a few seasons in the NHL Jagr was listed at 6’3 230lbs. Ovie is currently listed as 6’2 234. Both power forwards and similar body types from what I can tell. By comparison – Wayne 6’0 185 was considered a bean pole and certainly did’t score a majority of his goals bowling through people like a line backer.
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.
Not sure if the kids have come up with one of those computer abbreviations for “laugh out loud” yet, but that comment caused me to do so.
"You just have a sense," Holland says. "The type of player you want, the type of situation you reference for your next game, you see it."
by Acer Jonesy's Laughker on Jul 19, 2011 12:48 PM EDT up reply actions
And to clarify, I don’t really care about 4 or 6 or 8. I care about carrying less body fat and being in the best shape they can physically be in. I don’t believe that is what happened last season. We’ll see about this one.
Obviously, this is all speculation.
I guessed that what you were getting at =P. and are most likely right. I’d like to see him slim down some too overall because he looked slower. At some point you do trade off power for speed but pros need to balance that.
The focus on six packs is a bit misleading :P Or maybe that’s just cause I’ll never have one and my inherent hate of it since its all a certain gender seems to care about even though a hypothetical person could bench his own body weight, has the inverted xmas tree, and could snap said 6 pack toting 120lbs dudes in half but being big and muscly isn’t “in” this year. Hypothetically. lol
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.
because he’s not cut like a model is a bit simplistic
And let’s remember that steroid use among models is becoming quite common, just so they can get that “ripped” look.
Geeks of All Nations, Compile!
Pretty sure today’s Caps Clips were brought to you by the word “ripped”
Comrades, leave me here a little, while as yet 't is early morn:
Leave me here, and when you want me, sound upon the bugle-horn
by sydtron on Jul 19, 2011 4:23 PM EDT up reply actions 2 recs
Ovie’s jeans approve this sponsorship.
(Yes, I know about the avatar hounding - just pretend mine is invisible.)
by oldemystix on Jul 19, 2011 4:58 PM EDT up reply actions 2 recs
You know that AO is 50% Neanderthal, right? :P
What doesnt kill you makes you stronger.
by BetterOffWith28 on Jul 19, 2011 2:49 PM EDT up reply actions
Hmmm, he looks real fit in this one. Maybe it is just the pic.
We’ll see how he looks to start camp. I’ll be paying particular attention to what Ed F has to say; he’s the one guy among the beat reporters that I trust to dish up bad news.
Patron saint of quality footwear.
Watch him on Day 1 of training camp. Last year in camp, he looked gassed at the end of the session, especially compared to other players (and several noted it at the time). A harbinger of things to come?
If you've read this far...seek help.
by ThePeerless on Jul 19, 2011 10:20 AM EDT up reply actions
Didnt he say that he deliberately took it somewhat easy during the summer so that he could work himself into shape over the season? It may not have been the best strategy but I do not think it was a function of laziness or sloth. I think he is still experimenting with how to be in the best shape in April, regardless of it effects him in October.
You never truly know anyone until you get a look at their hard drive.
And yet, oddly enough, the takeaway on the Ovechkin interview on other sites I’ve looked at is…
OVIE’S FAT!
This summer has been too long already.
Why were there any comments after this one? Peerless had it right from the start.
Atta dinnin stick a who!
by Gould Old Days on Jul 19, 2011 3:22 PM EDT up reply actions 2 recs
we can go back to the “Why Semin Should/Should Not Be Traded” discussion if you’d like.
Caps fans aren’t on the ledge; they’ve already jumped, and are merely trying to drag others into a mournful descent with them..--Stienz
Pledge Drive 2010-2011: SO KIDS CAN!! Help build a playground
Neil tweeted this ILWT link on advanced stats, narratives, etc. – http://sbn.to/psFCt3
Good stuff for stat nerds, English majors and everyone in between.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
Good reading. I also enjoyed the PPP piece on confirmation bias.
"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 Jul 19, 2011 9:24 AM EDT up reply actions
Can’t wait to get home tonight to watch the bulk of that documentary. The parts I’ve seen so far (of the Kuznetsovs) have been fantastic.
That'll make your weagle wink!
The pants that bind us should be left behind us.
Many here have commented in the past on how young Kuz seems to have gotten married already. However, it seems he had to grow up quickly. It’s all rather poignant. Notice the NYR knit cap. I think it was Kuz who said the Rangers was his favorite team growing up.
Are you not entertained?
His marriage age isn’t uncommon amongst the current generation of Russians. (There was a recent documentary on young Russians marrying.)
(Yes, I know about the avatar hounding - just pretend mine is invisible.)
True, like the 1950’s here. I can’t imagine my 20-year-old getting married.
Are you not entertained?
10 Worst FA Signings
Ran across this at Pensburgh, thought it was interesting enough to link here.
Caps make the list at No. 10, Joel Ward.
Discounting the Pitt-centric ones (Gillies and Talbot), which I put down to red meat for the troops, I think Flash should be on the list. Also Ehrhoff.
Anyway, the link. http://www.pensburgh.com/2011/7/10/2268368/free-agent-frenzy-top-10-worst-signings-of-2011
Patron saint of quality footwear.
They have Jan Hejda at 5 based on his +/-. This post is clearly worth what you paid for it.
Armareddon.
by D'ohboy on Jul 19, 2011 8:37 AM EDT up reply actions 2 recs
Worth noting that that’s a FanPost and not by one of the site’s authors. That said…
Ward is a 30 y.o. who only broke into the league four years ago.
OK.
His highest point total is 35 (in 2008-2009).True.
He had one good playoff run and capitalized.Indeed.
But where is there anything about it, y’know, actually being a bad signing? Ward wasn’t brought here for his offense…
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Oops, I did not notice it was a Fanpost, or I would not have linked it. Sorry.
Patron saint of quality footwear.
I came across this on SI.com of Free Agent Busts.
You get three guesses on the lone Capital signing that made the list, and the first two don’t count.\
Ah, memories.
Nice guys finish first, but sometimes the season is awfully long.
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Pretty cool pic of Kasparaitis in there.
"My favorite fan base in D.C. Is United's. Period. The end." - Steinberg
MLS: If you're on crystal meth you can ref a match, just don't swear in the stands.
by Bald Pollack on Jul 19, 2011 8:53 AM EDT up reply actions
Ward is a 30 y.o. who only broke into the league four years ago.
Which to me says he’s a low-mileage 30-year old. Seem to recall another low-mileage forward on the team who’s doing pretty well late in his 30s.
and, that something pretty pivotal happened about 4 years ago that completely changed how you had to play defense in the league.
Comrades, leave me here a little, while as yet 't is early morn:
Leave me here, and when you want me, sound upon the bugle-horn
What’s amazing about Ward is that he went to a bunch of development camps for different teams and never got a sniff from any of them. So at 21, he decided to go to college in Canada. He really didn’t start his pro career until he was about 25 and has had to fight for everything he’s achieved. From everything I’ve heard and read, he’s a guy who is very grateful for where he is in life and that’s the type of player I want on my third line.
yeah — the term seems bad for a 30 year old but he’s low mileage. The money is about right given what UFAs were commanding this year and he fills an obvious need for the Capitals. Was it a bad signing because he doesn’t have a lot of points, or was it a bad signing because there was a plethora of similar defensive forwards available cheaper?
Comrades, leave me here a little, while as yet 't is early morn:
Leave me here, and when you want me, sound upon the bugle-horn
The player signed hopefully is a good fit for a need on this team, but the cap hit is a lot for the player, the GM who signed him acknowledged they paid more than they expected to/hoped to/planned to (don’t want to put words in his mouth but something to that effect.) Doesn’t mean I don’t like Ward being a Washington Capital or that I think it was the worse signing on July 1/2, but it was a surprise to see that cap hit/term combo for the player. Hopefully, he earns every penny of the contract (and more.)
Didn’t read the linked piece.
(via)
You perhaps knew me better as "Your Nation's Capital." Same great commentary, now with 100% more transparency!
Gunga la Gunga
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by Cap-O-Vens on Jul 19, 2011 9:56 AM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
Hockey Nomad Goes to Russia
Thanks for the link to this J.P.
The author and host is Dave Bidini, who besides being a writer and major hockey fan is well known for being part of the Toronto based band The Rheostatics. I got to know Dave through working at a record store on Toronto’s Queen West strip during university. Really class guy and I am sure he would be thrilled to know you linked to that documentary.
Anyone who likes this documentary should check out the book he wrote that inspired it called Tropic of Hockey: My Search for the Game in Unlikely Places. Hockey fans should also check out his book The Best Game You Can Name where he Interviews ex-NHLers such as Frank Mahovlich, Steve Larmer and even ex-Cap Ryan Walter. His latest book from last year, Home and Away: In Search of Dreams at the Homeless World Cup of Soccer is worth the pick up for any fans of the beautiful game.
Sorry for all the plugs but Bidini’s a really good guy, he deserves it.
When I'm mourning the death of a loved one, the first thing I do is read Roger Ebert's Tweets.
by Rather Bengt on Jul 19, 2011 9:44 AM EDT reply actions 2 recs
Thanks for all the info. RB; I did some research this morning and came up with some of that but your write-up offers a lot of information in one place.
I had heard about this documentary before, but hadn’t realized it included Kuznetsov and his family or that someone had put it on online and made it available to us until I saw the thread about it on HFBs yesterday. Haven’t finished watching yet, but I have enjoyed what I have seen so far.
Have you or anyone else that posts here seen the documentary they did about the Q a few years ago, IIRC, “Junior”? The one that includes some Bouchard footage since it featured Baie-Comeau. Is it worth watching
Does anyone know if that one is available online?
You’re welcome sk8 :).
I hadn’t heard of that doc on the Q. But sounds interesting. If one has time and wants to watch some good film I recommend checking out the NFB site. Always fascinating finds on there.
When I'm mourning the death of a loved one, the first thing I do is read Roger Ebert's Tweets.
by Rather Bengt on Jul 19, 2011 10:28 AM EDT up reply actions
Thanks. I was hoping someone might have seen it to tell me whether it was worth watching, but I’m watching now. Doubt I’ll get through the entire movie tonight, esp. with subtitles.
Can’t believe I never watched this before now.
Bouchard sighting and ‘speech’ somewhere between the 28 and 30 min mark.
Watched his previous documentary “I am a Hockey Nomad” on a Caps Road Crew Bus coming back from an Islanders Game last year. It was a terrifie.
"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.
Adam_KOL
FWIW, Hamrlik is here at Kettler today and there is #44 gear hanging up in the locker room.
You perhaps knew me better as "Your Nation's Capital." Same great commentary, now with 100% more transparency!
I like that number...
Atta dinnin stick a who!
by Gould Old Days on Jul 19, 2011 10:00 AM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
Me too!
If you've read this far...seek help.
by ThePeerless on Jul 19, 2011 10:14 AM EDT up reply actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Comrades, leave me here a little, while as yet 't is early morn:
Leave me here, and when you want me, sound upon the bugle-horn
by sydtron on Jul 19, 2011 10:17 AM EDT up reply actions 2 recs
Not a fan
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Can we please leave politics out of it? The last hockey board I was a member of imploded because of OT political discussions.
"Now wait a minute. This is just purely a social call. You know, just two adults getting a stew on, man."
by The Ghost of Bebop on Jul 19, 2011 10:38 AM EDT up reply actions 7 recs
Just the pic of Riggo could make this place implode….I was just playing the 44 game…which is now OT
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Just to be clear on where the line is, it’s the Washington Capitals. We have a no politics policy, but sometimes a line is too good to let go, so even folks on the masthead make the odd political joke from time to time. But two things make that work.
One is that it stops there. No further discussion about politics. It’s a funny joke haha (or not) but then everyone lets it go.
And the second is that it’s never anything that begs for a response, or is likely to draw one. This basically follows from #1. And C-O-V, that’s where your title crossed the line. “Not a fan” is likely to incite further comments, no matter which public figure it’s associated with.
Basically, the best option 99+% of the time is simply no politics at all. Unless you’re sure it’s uncontroversial, chuckle to yourself and then let it go without posting.
Atta dinnin stick a who!
by Gould Old Days on Jul 19, 2011 10:53 AM EDT up reply actions 9 recs
I agree…I really dont want politics to ruin the rink like it ruins everything else…it was a damn good 44 pic post tho…didnt mean to cross the line with “not a fan” just playing on how the ones before me liked the number…apologies…
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what is 44 pic?
What doesnt kill you makes you stronger.
by BetterOffWith28 on Jul 19, 2011 2:54 PM EDT up reply actions
Fine, …on to knowyourmeme.com or google.
What doesnt kill you makes you stronger.
by BetterOffWith28 on Jul 19, 2011 3:01 PM EDT up reply actions
that’s because we didn’t say the “C” word
Caps fans aren’t on the ledge; they’ve already jumped, and are merely trying to drag others into a mournful descent with them..--Stienz
Pledge Drive 2010-2011: SO KIDS CAN!! Help build a playground
Eyebleach! Now!
Winnipeg? Winnipeg??? Oy! (And now it's official...)
by MikeL-Pivonka on Jul 19, 2011 4:52 PM EDT up reply actions
too easy and beyond OT at this point
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The real reason the Thrashers left Atlanta?
Winnipeg? Winnipeg??? Oy! (And now it's official...)
by MikeL-Pivonka on Jul 19, 2011 4:52 PM EDT up reply actions
Pretty sure we’ve skipped into OT territory at this point.
"My favorite fan base in D.C. Is United's. Period. The end." - Steinberg
MLS: If you're on crystal meth you can ref a match, just don't swear in the stands.
by Bald Pollack on Jul 19, 2011 10:40 AM EDT up reply actions
Yup. Yeesh, the guy I posted at least was a former Caps goaltender.
What’s that you say? Riggins. Riggin. Not the same guy? Huh.
Atta dinnin stick a who!
by Gould Old Days on Jul 19, 2011 10:55 AM EDT up reply actions
That said, any Igor Ulanov Caps pic would get a nostalgia rec from this guy.
"My favorite fan base in D.C. Is United's. Period. The end." - Steinberg
MLS: If you're on crystal meth you can ref a match, just don't swear in the stands.
by Bald Pollack on Jul 19, 2011 11:00 AM EDT up reply actions
Until Caps win a Cup, Riggo pic is all-time best DC sports picture.
by mechanicsville on Jul 19, 2011 12:23 PM EDT up reply actions
For those who follow the minors or want some understanding of how some of the scouting/signings work, in particular at the ECHL level, I thought the Cail MacLean interviews that the Stingrays PR/radio guy (Joseph Zakrzewski) did at Caps development camp were worth a listen. He also spoke with Jason Fitzsimmons (former Stingrays player/coach, now Caps scout) and Dustin Stevenson.
Continuing Temporal Variance
If this is so, then a penalty of nominally constant magnitude that it is optimal to impose early in a contest may become suboptimal later in that same contest.
…
That’s my proposed pro tanto argument for temporally variant enforcement of non-shooting fouls in basketball. The argument extends to similar fouls in sports like football and hockey. At bottom, it’s based on an aversion to the awarding of windfall remedies disproportionate to the harm suffered. That’s a principle the law frequently endorses – from the harmless error rule to contract law’s material breach doctrine.
Full link if anyone is still interested in discussing this.
Obviously, this is all speculation.
For example, touchdowns and baskets, 15-yard penalties and free throw opportunities, all have greater impact on the expected outcome when occurring 2 minutes before the end of a then-tied game than when they occur 2 minutes from the start.
We touched on this yesterday, but now the author makes it his explicit point. I’m a little torn, on the one hand I think there is some perceptive bias that we ignore the prior minutes in the game when things could have happened and we tend to latch on to events at the end of the game. But at the same time I do think there is some importance to having enough time left after a call that a team can rebound and attempt to make things right.
I still don’t think it’s more than an extreme anomaly for calls to determine games, so you can’t complain about a bad call costing you the game, even if it came late in the contest, but I do think it’s probably fair to say that bad calls late in a game are potentially more damaging than bad calls early in a game (potentially because the other team still has to capitalize and score).
Obviously, this is all speculation.
by Rob Parker on Jul 19, 2011 11:01 AM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
Late goals are more important, so I’d like to see the NHL institute a rule that with 5 minutes left and in overtime, the ref must clearly see an inch of white between the puck and the goal line or it’s not a good goal.
Late homers are more important, so I’d like to see baseball institute hydrolic lifts to raise the fences in the 9th inning.
Every rule or standard change benefits one team and hurts the other. Standards are standards and should remain standards. Why should a skill team be required to win the game in 50 minutes or face 10 minutes and an overtime where all of a sudden defensive clutchers and grabbers have an advantage.
Atta dinnin stick a who!
by Gould Old Days on Jul 19, 2011 11:06 AM EDT up reply actions
That’s my basic position.
And are late goals more important than early goals? Stats in favor of the team that scores first seem to indicate otherwise (though I haven’t seen numbers for teams that score last). If scoring first is that important in hockey, maybe there should be some temporal variance early in the game!
Obviously, this is all speculation.
Goals scored within the first minute count as 1.5, and goals in the last minute count as 0.5!!!
Thusly, playoffs are overvalued as well – temporal variance is applied because “there is no tomorrow”: refs dont want to make a cheap call, and therefore let the lads play through infractions that would draw a whistle in the regular season.
by S h a g g y on Jul 19, 2011 11:21 AM EDT up reply actions
When you start doing things like that, this happens: 1994 Shell Caribbean Cup
Boss: "How's that task coming?" Alz: "Eh, it's trending Sasha." Boss: "What?" Alz: "..."
by Alz Well That Ends Well on Jul 19, 2011 11:48 AM EDT up reply actions
Related to perception bias, this is a good summer read that discusses that, home field advantage and other preconceived notions, though perhaps not to as granular a level as what Berman might be trying to do.
"My favorite fan base in D.C. Is United's. Period. The end." - Steinberg
MLS: If you're on crystal meth you can ref a match, just don't swear in the stands.
by Bald Pollack on Jul 19, 2011 11:09 AM EDT up reply actions
why doesn’t he just say “If this is so, then a penalty with a fixed punishment that you’d like to see the ref call early in the game may not be justified later in the same game… That’s my first take on why shooting fouls in basketball are called differently at different points in the game. I don’t like the idea that a punishment that seems appropriate early in the game could determine the outcome — at the end of the game that seems like too strong a punishment given the minor violation. That’s a principle the law frequently endorses — from the rule that a minor error at trial should not be cause for reversal of a judgment on appeal to the contract law principle that one party’s minor breach of a contract should not allow the other party to get out of their contractual obligations.”
Atta dinnin stick a who!
by Gould Old Days on Jul 19, 2011 11:03 AM EDT up reply actions
Color me "pro Tonto," too
Signed,
T.L. Ranger
If you've read this far...seek help.
by ThePeerless on Jul 19, 2011 11:06 AM EDT up reply actions
Interesting stuff on the Caps from Hradek at NHL.com this morning – most notably this part, which stuck out to me in regards to other conversations in this thread:
While McPhee said he’s got no plans to move Semin, he does expect more from him in the coming season. In fact, the manager said he has had “lots” of conversations with each member of his big four (Alex Ovechkin, Nicklas Backstrom, Mike Green and Semin) since their season was ended by the Lightning in a second-round series sweep.
McPhee didn’t feel any of the four played at the top of his game last year, despite the club’s regular-season success (they won another Southeast Division title and finished as the top seed in the Eastern Conference).
“It’s a big year for them,” McPhee said. “It’s time for them to take over as leaders of the team. I expect them to come into camp in fabulous shape and be the guys to keep people in line.”
The definition of being a Caps fan is watching the same team over and over and expecting different results.
by Becca H on Jul 19, 2011 11:31 AM EDT reply actions 1 recs
Crap. Link is HERE.
The definition of being a Caps fan is watching the same team over and over and expecting different results.
I view the Vokoun signing as a bit of a watershed moment. The feeling I get is that the core guys now “get it” that bringing in Vokoun has afforded them their best chance ever for a Cup and that it really is a small window (at least with Vokoun). I may be a bit naive, but I’m anticipating a far more dedicated team come September. And a management that’s going to be far less forgiving of anything that isn’t directed toward the ultimate goal.
As always, beware parsing GMGM, but I think there is enough there to validate the concerns that have been expressed about the condition our stars were in last season. Oddly enough, it seems like Semin might be the least culpable in that respect, though he definitely is just as culpable in the “didn’t play at the top of his game” list.
Obviously, this is all speculation.
For sure. And agree on Semin, to my (admittedly amateur) eyes he always seems to come into camp in great shape – say what you will about him but in terms of physique/fitness he’s probably among the best, particularly in that "big four" group Hradek references.
The definition of being a Caps fan is watching the same team over and over and expecting different results.
I came at it from a different angle. I just thought Semin didn’t look any more sluggish than he used to be. He was the same guy I’m used to watching, so I figured he was in the same kind of shape. Nick and AO both looked less explosive all season (although maybe that’s just a narrative I/we attach to explain why they didn’t produce as much).
Obviously, this is all speculation.
Semin was obviously in great shape at the start of the season, he was playing well and scoring a lot until he cooled off In December and was injured. What seems to hold Semin back from reaching his potential is mental issues, not as much the physical issues (other than the injuries). GMGM must have had some interesting conversations with him after the season ended. Did he make a secret trip to Siberia we don’t know about?
by vtcapsfan99 on Jul 19, 2011 11:43 AM EDT up reply actions
I’m glad to hear he’s talked to him. I sure will be interested to see how it plays out. This season will be their collective moment. IIRC, Slava commented at the beginning of last season that Semin looked really good, that his shoulders seemed bigger and that he was in terrific shape. Whatever caused the groin injury, I hope he’s worked to strengthen that area.
Are you not entertained?
Semin was obviously in great shape at the start of the season, he was playing well and scoring a lot until he cooled off In December and was injured.
This is some pretty far-fetched conjecture. Semin has displayed periods of play like this before. I don’t think they’re at all related to fitness (except they probably correlate with when he’s healthy).
Ovechkin, on the other hand, admitted to doing a different training regime. He had trouble during the opening skating drills of training camp and then looked noticeably less explosive throughout the year.
Armareddon.
by D'ohboy on Jul 19, 2011 12:02 PM EDT up reply actions 2 recs
I wasn’t implying that Semin started off this season in different shape than in previous seasons, I think he has started the past few seasons well. In my opinion that means he worked out and prepared well in the off season. Perhaps he reaches some sort of zen mental state hunting and fishing in Siberia and going to Turkey with Ovie over the summer that causes this but I personally think he also works out a lot and has himself in good shape. I don’t think Semin could play very well like he does for the first two months of the seasons without being in good shape.
Semin in early sessions:
2008: 27 points in Oct-Nov in 16 games, 5 points in Dec in 5 games
2009: 17 points in Oct-Nov in 18 games, 15 points in Dec in 13 games
2010: 29 points in Oct-Nov in 25 games, 6 points in Dec in 11 games—got injured in Dec
I wasn’t implying that Semin started off this season in different shape than in previous seasons
Semin was obviously in great shape at the start of the season
I think I can be excused from inferring the former from the latter. :)
Armareddon.
True, but I didn’t say he wasn’t in great shape to start those previous seasons. I have actually had this discussion recently with others and I made that point and I guess I forgot to make it here because it was so crystal clear in my mind (why can’t you read what I meant not what I wrote???) Do you at least agree from that data that he starts off well and tails off around December normally when he gets injuries? I don’t recall in 2009 when he got his first injury, does anyone else? Obviously he was still hot in December 2009.
I will agree with you that the conclusion you made is less of a stretch than the one you made above were you assumed I implied the NFL has equivalent drug testing as compared to other sports. I believe I said nothing that implied that but I can see where you got confused here.
Sadly, that’s been the story of Semin in the last few years. Gets off to great start, then gets hurt. Tries to play through injury, is ineffective for a while and then finally sits out. Or at least that was the case the last 2 seasons. 2008 was the great start and then getting hurt (pinched nerve) which took forever to recover from — or so it seemed.
Rocking the Red for teams on the banks of the Potomac and at the Gateway Arch and Singing the Blues about Hockey.
That article was full of interesting stuff.
This would explain why Ovie had to talk to Boudrea, GMGM, and Nemo while he was here and do some explaining about his off season training as he mentioned in the video.
“It’s a big year for them,” McPhee said. “It’s time for them to take over as leaders of the team. I expect them to come into camp in fabulous shape and be the guys to keep people in line.”
Being in top shape will be a start. At different times during last season, I heard whispers about the conditioning levels of Ovechkin and Backstrom, while in previous years Green’s fitness had been questioned. I suspect McPhee will be eyeballing each of those players very closely when they return in September.
Also interesting is this information on the Varly trade.
One young player who won’t be back in Washington is goalie Semyon Varlamov, who was dealt to the Avalanche for first- and second-round picks July 1. While McPhee was happy about the return on the deal (and he should be), he still was a little disappointed that he had to make the move.
“I really didn’t want to do it, but he’d indicated that was going to go to play in the KHL and I started to think of different scenarios where we could end up with nothing for him,” said McPhee, citing the ongoing Evgeni Nabokov saga. “Colorado and four other teams were interested and it just came together pretty quick.”
by vtcapsfan99 on Jul 19, 2011 11:39 AM EDT up reply actions
I wonder which other teams were interested in Varly…
The definition of being a Caps fan is watching the same team over and over and expecting different results.
I’d guess PHX, maybe WPG, maybe STL, maybe OTT, maybe NYI (do they need another broken goalie?), maybe even NJD.
Obviously, this is all speculation.
Probably Florida, too.
Tortorella: Can I get another question? I went in here in a pretty good mood today, too.
Larry Brooks: So did I.
Tortorella: Well, you obviously f***ed that up, didn't you?
Nah, they have Markstrom. I don’t think they are looking to crowd him out.
Obviously, this is all speculation.
Probably would’ve kept Salak if they intended to raise two young goalies.
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To help with basic Timeonice functions.
If I reference a lot of stats, just assume I haven't seen anything to contradict or invalidate them.
by red army line on Jul 19, 2011 12:41 PM EDT up reply actions
Yeah, that’s true. What was the return for him? Maybe they had to part with him?
Obviously, this is all speculation.
Snark? Frolik + Salak for Skille, I think.
Red Line Station and @RedArmyLine, featuring coverage of the most frustrating team in the NHL
To help with basic Timeonice functions.
If I reference a lot of stats, just assume I haven't seen anything to contradict or invalidate them.
by red army line on Jul 19, 2011 12:50 PM EDT up reply actions
No snark. I was just thinking that if FLA got a real player back then maybe they had to give up Salak. Skille for Frolik is a bad deal for FLA as is, so they obviously shouldn’t have had to throw Salak in. Horrible deal. Even Mike Milbury is scratching his head on that one.
Obviously, this is all speculation.
I’m wondering if the other teams offered as much as the Avs and GMGM traded Varly to Colorado because he knew Varly wanted to go there, or the Avs offered the most. Maybe they had to offer the 1st and 2nd round picks to ensure they won the bidding for Varly.
by vtcapsfan99 on Jul 19, 2011 11:49 AM EDT up reply actions
I doubt GMGM would have taken less of a return to make Varly happy, under these circumstances.
Obviously, this is all speculation.
I wasn’t implying that he would take a lower return to make Varly happy. I was thinking he would take an equal return and pick the team Varly liked the best. Sorry if that wasn’t clear.
by vtcapsfan99 on Jul 19, 2011 11:54 AM EDT up reply actions
TBL? Or had they already re-signed Rolo by that time?
TOR?
Now I stop to think about it, the list of teams that could use a good starter is pretty long…
STL has Halak, though, right? Not sure if I see them being a strong candidate.
Patron saint of quality footwear.
Wow, I agree that it would be far-fetched to consider Varly ending up in TB, but you don’t think SY at least did his due diligence, if for no other reason than to drive up the price for whomever landed him?
Patron saint of quality footwear.
I would hope he asked about Richards and Carter…did he confirm that he was in, at least in a cursory sense?
Patron saint of quality footwear.
My recollection as well.
I have zero idea how hockey FOs work. The black box aspect is frustrating. I don’t understand why we get zero info on it, whereas in baseball we do. Guys like Gammons or the guy from Fox, can’t remember his name, Rosen-something, will tell you that “The Indians were in on Player X, but refused to part with both a pick and a top prospect”, or that the Red Sox got into the bidding but probably just to drive up the price for the Yankees, etc.
Would love to have that info on hockey.
Patron saint of quality footwear.
The Islanders are trying to build a super-goalie. They are quietly acquiring all of the broken goalies and taking the best parts of each. Of course, this raises the concern that someone could gather up all the superfluous parts and build the complement — a goalie with the knees of DiPietro and the groin of Varlamov. Uranium would be more stable than that guy.
Boss: "How's that task coming?" Alz: "Eh, it's trending Sasha." Boss: "What?" Alz: "..."
by Alz Well That Ends Well on Jul 19, 2011 11:56 AM EDT up reply actions 3 recs
Gentlemen, we can rebuild him. We have the technology.
Tortorella: Can I get another question? I went in here in a pretty good mood today, too.
Larry Brooks: So did I.
Tortorella: Well, you obviously f***ed that up, didn't you?
Unfortunately, that goalie would also want a 15-year contract guaranteeing he would be the #1.
Boss: "How's that task coming?" Alz: "Eh, it's trending Sasha." Boss: "What?" Alz: "..."
by Alz Well That Ends Well on Jul 19, 2011 12:15 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
Someone, I think Whyno, posted a piece which quoted the same material. He wasn’t as direct in his analysis regarding leadership and physical condition, but he hinted at it pretty broadly. I believe he added something along the lines of “(Feel free to read a significant amount between the lines here)”
Anyway, I agree that coming to camp in good shape is now a legitimate issue for concern for three of those guys, and also “leadership”, or whatever you call being ready to perform when it’s all on the line.
Patron saint of quality footwear.
Yup. I don’t remember GMGM coming out and saying things like this before:
"It’s time for them to take over as leaders of the team. I expect them to come into camp in fabulous shape and be the guys to keep people in line."
I think he, like the rest of us, thinks it’s time for these guys to grow up and actually be the core of this team rather than doing what they’ve done in the past – get by on talent alone.
The definition of being a Caps fan is watching the same team over and over and expecting different results.
No t-shirts. We need to see who comes to camp with a six-pack and who doesn’t.
(Yes, I know about the avatar hounding - just pretend mine is invisible.)
by oldemystix on Jul 19, 2011 2:16 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
Is it wrong for me to ask why should it be news that these conversations happened? Shouldn’t they have been ongoing, namely by the guy who sees them on a day to to day basis over the course of a season?
"My favorite fan base in D.C. Is United's. Period. The end." - Steinberg
MLS: If you're on crystal meth you can ref a match, just don't swear in the stands.
by Bald Pollack on Jul 19, 2011 12:03 PM EDT up reply actions
Who knows? I think the difference to us observers is that the fact of the conversations is being made public and that the substance seems to be “this is it.” I don’t recall hearing that before. The previous seasons seemed about patience and building. This one seems to be for the win, period, at least with this group.
Are you not entertained?
Can we assume that they haven’t? For that matter, can we assume that GMGM hasn’t said things like this before? I think what’s newsworthy isn’t that the conversations happened or how often (or if ever) they’ve happened before – it’s that GMGM is saying it publicly, he’s basically calling them out in the media and telling them very openly that it’s time to step up.
The definition of being a Caps fan is watching the same team over and over and expecting different results.
be the core of this team rather than doing what they’ve done in the past – get by on talent alone.
I don’t understand what you mean by this can you please explain?
I mean that, while we consider them "the core" guys for this team, they haven’t acted like it or lived up to what they’re capable of doing – that means going beyond just the talent and doing little things better (playing more responsibly in their own end, showing up for camp in great shape, leading by example, etc.) They’ve all done some of those things some of the time but it’s rare that all four are doing everything it takes. You don’t have this much talent on a team and flame out every postseason without the failure being about something beyond talent.
…if that makes sense. :D
The definition of being a Caps fan is watching the same team over and over and expecting different results.
Thanks for explaining.
You don’t have this much talent on a team and flame out every postseason without the failure being about something beyond talent.You can have all the talent in the world on a team but when the team isn’t constructed the right way it’s not very surprising when you fail every year.
It has to be a good balance. The team has to be constructed correctly but the stars have to perform like stars, too. This team, so far, has yet to find that balance.
The definition of being a Caps fan is watching the same team over and over and expecting different results.
Of course, but when your team is constructed so poorly that you have to use your star players as supporting cast for your role players, you can’t expect them to preform like stars. See Nicky this past year as an example of that.
I’m not sure where the “construction” of the team comes into play on this. McPhee put together pretty solid trade deadline acquisitions this year (though a key piece went down with an injury) to address the deficiencies the Caps had going into April. The coaching, or lack of it, plays a significant role in this team’s repeated failure to advance in the spring.
by bigonetimer on Jul 19, 2011 12:57 PM EDT up reply actions
I’d also disagree that the team was constructed so poorly. Yes, the lack of a solid 2C makes Backstrom’s role change a little bit and needs to be addressed – but how is that any different than in the past? He’s been in the same situation since BB put him at center halfway through his rookie season and has always performed better than he did this year.
And I’m not specifically singling out Nick, I know that to some extent injuries decreased his ability to perform at times and he certainly wasn’t the only one struggling. I’m saying all of them went through stretches where they weren’t the players they should be.
The definition of being a Caps fan is watching the same team over and over and expecting different results.
Was he out of gas, or out of groin? He looked more gimpy than gassed, to me.
....when the truth is if they knew anything about the game, they'd be in it.
--GMGM
åäö
The season doesn’t start in March. Bringing in an injured Arnott at that time was too little too late IMO.
As a GM it’s your job to construct a team with enough depth at all positions so that there is a good chance that your best players go into the playoffs as fresh as possible. Obviously you can never avoid freak injuries like Wideman’s.
I can’t prove without a doubt that this team is terrible at dealing with injuries, but to me it sure looks that way. Ovi playing hurt for God knows how long and Green coming back too soon to name a few.
Nicky playing through whatever was wrong with him that made his skating look like shit in October/November, maybe an ankle injury.
The thing that pissed me off the most though is playing Nicky against the doctor’s orders. I just don’t understand why a team that wasn’t in risk of missing the playoff would do that. That’s just mind-boggling to me. I have to assume that some of those instances of playing injured players were because of cap problems but it’s still an inexcusable thing to do.
It goes back to constructing the team right again. Maybe it’s better to have a little bit more flexibility under the cap even though you will have fewer players or players that aren’t as good if the reward is to have more key players ready when the playoffs come around. I’m well aware that players are always going to play through things, the whole “you can play hurt but not injured” thing. I know Nicky’s scoring touch has been beyond bad this season but I can’t help but think that if they had let him heal that finger properly like the doctor ordered he wouldn’t have re-injured the thumb again for the second time in the Rangers series. We all know just how many good scoring opportunities he wasted in the playoffs this year.
There’s a reason why “building down the middle” has become a cliche, because it’s true. I have been trying really hard to find teams that have won without being strong down the middle and I can’t find any.
Last year was different for Nicky because he was asked to be 1C, 2C and stand in 4C. He was asked to first be Boyd Gordon and then be himself during the same shift. First be Gordon and get the puck out of the Dzone, but players like Gordon can make a shift change after they finish that, unlike Nicky who had to then try to create something offensively and against the other team’s top competition.
I don’t think BB misused him. I think BB had to use him that way because he just didn’t have enough players that he could put on the ice in every situation. There are plenty of things you can criticize him for but IMO that is on George and not Boudreau.
Having a good second line isn’t just about scoring points, it’s about removing pressure from the first line and giving the team momentum. When players from the first line are constantly used to support the 2-4 lines something is wrong. I’m not saying that it’s always a good idea to always protect your first line – is there anything greater then watching a good power vs power match up?
When your second and third lines consistently fail to provide momentum something is off. When a team is functioning properly, you will see the fourth line get pressure in the offensive zone and then makes a shift change to the first line and they score after just a few seconds. You didn’t see that as much this past year.
As good as Marcus is on the rush, he is just awful at sustaining puck pressure in the offensive zone. There was a reason that his position stats looked so bad, his line was out shot by a lot. That led to him ending a lot of his shifts in the d zone even though he was one of the players with the most O zone starts in the entire league. Because he is really bad at face offs, he couldn’t be trusted to clean up his own mess. Most of the time the coaching staff didn’t even trust him to be the back up guy. So you throw Gordon, Steckel, etc on the ice. But because this happened a lot you can’t have them on the ice all the time because then you will never get any offense going so they threw Nicky on the ice again.
It became a vicious circle where the team didn’t have enough good centers so Marcus had to play a lot against competition that was too tough for him. I think that’s a big reason that his shifts so often ended in the d zone. The coaching staff realized that and tried to make the best of the situation which circled back to the slow death of Nicky’s offense.
I’m not saying that BB or the “Young Guns” as individuals couldn’t have performed better, of course they could and I’m pretty sure that they all would be the first person to agree with that. I just think that GMGM shares a big part of the responsibility for last year’s failure too
by Malin A on Jul 19, 2011 5:33 PM EDT up reply actions 13 recs
And while I’m not saying GMGM doesn’t bear some responsibility, I should have put more emphasis on the SO part of “so poorly” – because I think some of the things you mentioned are on the coach, some are on the players and some are on the GM. And I’m also saying that with better performances from our top guys a lot of those things don’t look so bad. Look around the League and tell me how many teams have the so-called perfect four lines – there aren’t many, every team has holes. It’s how you overcome the deficiencies of your specific team, how the stars rise to the occasion, how well the role-players play their roles, etc. that determines a good team. I’d argue that at least two of the four teams that made the Conference Finals could be lined up next to the Caps and be comparable if not worse on paper – it’s about the players executing to a man. And the stars are not absolved from that.
Let me just say this – if Nicky comes back to camp with manboobs or if Ovi’s winded on every drill during training camp, I’m not going to be happy.
The definition of being a Caps fan is watching the same team over and over and expecting different results.
…also, I take issue with you saying his offense suffered a slow death because of the way the team is constructed. First of all, to die a slow death it would have had to be alive in the first place, and Nick didn’t exactly start the season on fire. And second, while there were roster issues they certainly weren’t new ones – I don’t buy that as an excuse in the least, not considering the fact that he’s been in similar situations every year in DC and has proven he can handle it. Would I like it if he had a legit 2C backing him up? Sure. But the fact that he doesn’t shouldn’t excuse his poor conditioning, his lack of finish or his slow start, middle and end of the season.
As for the injuries, it’s hubris for anyone to think they know why he didn’t sit out. You really think the team pressured him to play for cap reasons? You don’t consider for a second that maybe it wasn’t the team saying “you have to play” as much as it was him saying “I’m going to play”? It goes back to the maturity and the responsibility of knowing when to listen to your body and when it’s better for you – and the team – to rest if you’re injured.
But again – I’m not singling out Nick. I think he’s a tremendous player and isn’t the only star who didn’t step up this year, and I think to some extent what you say is true – it’s partly (emphasis on PARTLY) on the GM to construct a team that will allow the players to perform at their best. But they’re adults, they’re making a ton of money, and after seeing what these guys are capable I’m not willing to excuse away shitty seasons with “the GM just didn’t give them the right tools”.
The definition of being a Caps fan is watching the same team over and over and expecting different results.
First of all, to die a slow death it would have had to be alive in the first place, and Nick didn’t exactly start the season on fire.
He had 21 points in his first 20 games and 37 points in the first 40 games. If you compare that to the previous season – a season that was a historically good one point wise both for the team and him personally he had 46 points in his first 40 games.
And second, while there were roster issues they certainly weren’t new ones – I don’t buy that as an excuse in the least, not considering the fact that he’s been in similar situations every year in DC and has proven he can handle it. Would I like it if he had a legit 2C backing him up?It was a bigger drop off at the center position this year than in the previous couple of years. Offensively the combined points production from centers was lower and defensively he had a bigger responsibility this year. As I was trying to illustrate above the problem wasn’t just the lack of a 2C, it was a 3C problem too.
But the fact that he doesn’t shouldn’t excuse his poor conditioning, his lack of finish or his slow start, middle and end of the season.
I’m not sure his conditioning was poor, at least not his overall conditioning. With Ovi we heard about his problems starting at camp, with Nicky we didn’t. To me he looked uncharacteristically weak along the boards this year. I’m not gonna disagree that he is shooting % was low, I don’t think that is something you can will yourself through. Sometimes you have off years, I’m sure playing with a injured thumb didn’t help.
As for the injuries, it’s hubris for anyone to think they know why he didn’t sit out.I think he didn’t sit out games because he is stupid, plain and simple. Almost all hockey players are when it comes to injuries. In a group of stupid people he stands out as being even more stupid than the norm as his long iron man stretch shows.
You really think the team pressured him to play for cap reasons?Oh I certainly hope so the other alternative is that they had just played him for no “good” reason at all.
You don’t consider for a second that maybe it wasn’t the team saying "you have to play" as much as it was him saying "I’m going to play"?There is absolutely no doubt in my mind that he would be stupid enough to try to play with both broken bones AND a migraine that made him incapable of even seeing the ice. But I also expect that the trainers for the team know just how stupid hockey players are when it comes to these things and act accordingly.
It goes back to the maturity and the responsibility of knowing when to listen to your body and when it’s better for you – and the team – to rest if you’re injured.Couldn’t agree more. But as I also expect that the trainers on the team knows just how stupid hockey players are when it comes to these things an act accordingly.
But again – I’m not singling out Nick.
But the fact that he doesn’t shouldn’t excuse his poor conditioning, his lack of finish or his slow start, middle and end of the season.
First of all, to die a slow death it would have had to be alive in the first place, and Nick didn’t exactly start the season on fire
by Malin A on Jul 19, 2011 9:49 PM EDT up reply actions 5 recs
Let me just say this – if Nicky comes back to camp with manboobs or if Ovi’s winded on every drill during training camp, I’m not going to be happy.
Totally disagree on this. I’m so hoping that Nicky’s maboobs will make a comeback. Sadly I don’t think that will happen he looks to be in really great shape. So great shape in fact that I think even F&B would approve of his abs.
by Malin A on Jul 19, 2011 6:25 PM EDT up reply actions 3 recs
I’ll have to call you “bro” because you’re a manboob supporter.
Armareddon.
by D'ohboy on Jul 19, 2011 6:52 PM EDT up reply actions 3 recs
Mansiere!
"My favorite fan base in D.C. Is United's. Period. The end." - Steinberg
MLS: If you're on crystal meth you can ref a match, just don't swear in the stands.
by Bald Pollack on Jul 19, 2011 6:54 PM EDT up reply actions 2 recs
Or rely on the grizzled vet obtained at the deadline.
If you've read this far...seek help.
by ThePeerless on Jul 19, 2011 12:41 PM EDT up reply actions
I love that McPhee isn’t 100% defending everyone’s performance last season. The fact that he’s having these discussions with the Young Guns is extremely encouraging to me. He’s done just about everything he can this offseason (depending on where you stand on Boudreau). I do wonder what kind of discussions have taken place with the coach.
My hope is they went something like this:
"Okay, Bruce. I’ve gotten you some more veterans, some playoff performers, some guys to add grit and depth to the team. I’ve locked up Laich and Alzner. I’ve given you an elite goaltender. I’ve had long talks with Backstrom, Ovechkin, Green and Semin about the importance of this season. I’ve done everything I can possibly do to give you a Cup-contending team – now it’s your turn to do something with it."
…and then they hugged, Bruce wiped away a tear and said "I won’t let you down, George". Music swells. Fade to black.
The definition of being a Caps fan is watching the same team over and over and expecting different results.
Down Goes Brown is, naturally, on fire today
From Twitter, re the Osgood HOF debate
Greg Wyshynski
It’s really easy: Martin Brodeur. Dominik Hasek. Patrick Roy. Ed Belfour. Chris Osgood. Which one of these things is not like the others …
And, DGB’s reply:
Down Goes Brown
Four of them are skinny?
We're Hüsker Dü and we're on MTV. Who are you, and what are you on?
by bilspacecadet on Jul 19, 2011 12:26 PM EDT reply actions 6 recs
How’s this for a stat (per Corey on Twitter):
Tomas Vokoun stopped 1,403 more shots than Patrick Roy since 1993-94 while playing in just 21 more games.
The definition of being a Caps fan is watching the same team over and over and expecting different results.
We all know Vokoun’s played for crappy teams. We got to watch him play amazing while the rest of his team could of been substituted for table top hockey figures 6 times a year for the last 4 years.
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.
Patrick can’t hear or read Corey with two of his four Stanley Cup rings plugging his ears and the other two covering his eyes.
Armareddon.
Oooh! Mean (but funny!)
Winnipeg? Winnipeg??? Oy! (And now it's official...)
by MikeL-Pivonka on Jul 19, 2011 4:55 PM EDT up reply actions
Scott Walker
Apropos of nothing except today’s birthday boy, it has occurred to me that McPhee is pretty good (or bad, depending on your point of view) at cutting dudes loose before they’re too old to play.
I was trying to think who has retired as a Cap in the last decade or so (and I’m not including dudes who came up for one NHL game with the team and then never made it back up)—there’s not many, really—Bondra, Kolzig, Johansson, Klee, Kono, Witt—few seem to retire as a Cap.
Here’s my mental list: Scott Walker, Joe Reekie.
Discuss.
We're Hüsker Dü and we're on MTV. Who are you, and what are you on?
FWIW, does a deadline rental like Scott Walker who then retires count in a discussion like this? I think the rebuild impacts the ability to list many players and then there’s someone like Cassels who tried to play post-lockout and had on-ice issues and family stuff, which made that a short stint in a Caps jersey.
Tinordi – injuries.
Johannson, Kolzig and Reekie played some games, not many, after leaving the Caps.
Hunter’s move to Colorado in search of a long playoff run another short stint at the end in a different uniform.
Bellows last played in the NHL as a Capital but McPhee (and Bellows) resurrected his career.
Wow. You’re right—I forgot Reekie played for the Blackhawks after the Caps.
Yeah, I think Walker counts—my point is: who does McPhee let retire as a Cap rather than letting him go (or trading him) when it’s clear he has something (but not much) left?
Answer is, apparently no one. Scotty Walker, Cassels, that’s about it, right?
We're Hüsker Dü and we're on MTV. Who are you, and what are you on?
by bilspacecadet on Jul 19, 2011 1:00 PM EDT up reply actions
Therrien…some think Oates had a chance…also Carbonneau has been mentioned.
Some people thought Hitchcock would be a good fit.
Stay tuned.
from Twitter
TReedDispatch Thomas Reed
by wyshynski
Former #CBJ coach Ken Hitchcock will not get New Jersey Devils job.
We're Hüsker Dü and we're on MTV. Who are you, and what are you on?
by bilspacecadet on Jul 19, 2011 1:04 PM EDT up reply actions
Yes, several have reported it’s not him.
Dreger is stating it’s not Therrien
wait and see, this is Lamoriello, so it could be anyone including those others say it is not (although in this case I believe the reporting)
DarrenDreger Darren Dreger
Pete DeBoer was near the top of the list. I believe he’s the new Devils coach. Working on sources to confirm.
Well, not that I know much, but that strikes me as a tad off the board, as they say.
Don’t try to figure Sasha out. Just ride the wave.
A bit. 3 years of head coaching experience, a young coach (younger than MacLean but more experience as an NHL head coach); coached David Clarkson in juniors.
The stuff that I recall reading at the end of the season about his coaching style and discipline sounds like a fit with Lamoriello’s approach.
Plus, he’ll succeed in NJ and make a rival GM look like an idiot for letting him go, which is always a bonus for Lou.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
So canned by Tallon. I guess Tallon is a big enough target to give Lou Lam some juice.
Patron saint of quality footwear.
not that it takes a whole lot of effort to make Tallon look like an idiot. It’s almost too easy.
Caps fans aren’t on the ledge; they’ve already jumped, and are merely trying to drag others into a mournful descent with them..--Stienz
Pledge Drive 2010-2011: SO KIDS CAN!! Help build a playground
This day in #NJD history, July 19, 2010, Ilya Kovalchuk makes decision to sign with the NJD (the first contract)…
by sk84fun_dc on Jul 19, 2011 2:04 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
FWIW, does a deadline rental like Scott Walker who then retires count in a discussion like this? I think the rebuild impacts the ability to list many players and then there’s someone like Cassels who tried to play post-lockout and had on-ice issues and family stuff, which made that a short stint in a Caps jersey.
Tinordi – injuries.
Johannson, Kolzig and Reekie played some games, not many, after leaving the Caps.
Hunter’s move to Colorado in search of a long playoff run another short stint at the end in a different uniform.
Bellows last played in the NHL as a Capital but McPhee (and Bellows) resurrected his career.
Holy hell, I picked a good day to be away from Clips comments for a few hours…
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
What, politics and six pacs aren’t why you started this blog?
"Neuvy was eating pucks for breakfast, lunch, and dinner."
by SeattleCapsFan on Jul 19, 2011 1:23 PM EDT up reply actions
Oh, as if this is the dumbest line of discussion we’ve ever had in Clips before…
The definition of being a Caps fan is watching the same team over and over and expecting different results.
No. That distinction would belong to a discussion on the dumbest line of discussion we’ve ever had in Clips before.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
Ooh, let’s do that one again!
The definition of being a Caps fan is watching the same team over and over and expecting different results.
Chris Bourque deserves to be a Capital for life. Agree or disagree? Go!
Patron saint of quality footwear.
I don’t know who this Bourque guy is, but Chris Smith might be the most important Capital ever.
Caps fans aren’t on the ledge; they’ve already jumped, and are merely trying to drag others into a mournful descent with them..--Stienz
Pledge Drive 2010-2011: SO KIDS CAN!! Help build a playground
Bourque would be a great Red Rocker, if only they allowed guys to try out.
How’s that for merging enjoyable topics?
Nice guys finish first, but sometimes the season is awfully long.
Follow me on Twitter.
they allow guys to try out! Didn’t you read the Puck Buddys article?
Caps fans aren’t on the ledge; they’ve already jumped, and are merely trying to drag others into a mournful descent with them..--Stienz
Pledge Drive 2010-2011: SO KIDS CAN!! Help build a playground
and if you really want to merge topics, I believe the reason why none of the male tryouts made the cut is because F&B was a judge and didn’t like how their mid-sections looked.
Caps fans aren’t on the ledge; they’ve already jumped, and are merely trying to drag others into a mournful descent with them..--Stienz
Pledge Drive 2010-2011: SO KIDS CAN!! Help build a playground
by RedBirdie on Jul 19, 2011 1:45 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
Playing with fire:
Can you get something in here about firing Bruce as well?
Nice guys finish first, but sometimes the season is awfully long.
Follow me on Twitter.
Hard to find time to fire Bruce when you’re burning up the phone lines trying to move Semin, Green, and Schultz so you can bring in someone who will hit…
by Twenty Seven Ninety on Jul 19, 2011 3:11 PM EDT up reply actions
Back to hockey for a brief interlude: the Flyers will carry over some bonus money on this year’s cap, to the tune of $1.4M.
http://www.broadstreethockey.com/2011/7/19/2282914/philadelphia-flyers-salary-cap-overages
Patron saint of quality footwear.
With the lack of a bonus cushion, having overage this season is definitely an issue for a team like the Flyers. I read that the Canucks will have a small overage number, what I saw was less than $100,000, might have been a lot less.
I think the Rags have ~530K of carryover, and a couple of other teams have significantly smaller number, like the ’Nucks as you posted.
Regarding the Flyers, this news firms up a couple of issues in my mind. First, it looks like they did, in fact, absolutely have to get rid of both Carter and Richards (or at least that much salary, if not those two specific players) once they signed Bryzgalov . And I’m not sure who else they could have moved to free up that kind of money.
Second, the news that they were shopping Bob makes a bunch more sense.
Anyhow, they can create some breathing room if they need it – LTIR for Laperriere, waive Shelley, or whatever, but they’re still tight.
Patron saint of quality footwear.
Ian L to LTIR – many expected
I disagree about Carter and Richards comment…Versteeg yes, but not those 2.
Interesting regarding the NYR. Add it to the info. that I saw a note today from Brooks, that looks possible Dubinsky could make it to the actual arb. hearing.
I don’t see how they can have Carter, Richards, Bryzgalov and a $1.4M bonus penalty all at the same time, even with Versteeg’s departure?
Regarding the NYR, Capgeek has their carry-over penalty at $527K. They still have $10.6M in cap space left, although with Callahan and Dubinsky still to sign. Plus they need a 6th and 7th D on the roster. But they’ve got plenty of room.
Patron saint of quality footwear.
And now for goalie depth they just signe Jason Bacashihua. Go Cash go!
You perhaps knew me better as "Your Nation's Capital." Same great commentary, now with 100% more transparency!
Speaking of bonus cushions, the only players on the Caps last year who were eligible for a bonus would have been Varly (pretty obviously didn’t hit any bonuses), MoJo, JC74 and Alzner, right?
MoJo and Carlson might have hit a bonus…maybe?
Patron saint of quality footwear.
Actually neither of those guys (MJ90 or JC74) had/have performances in their deals. Alzner did, but didn’t hit most/any of them, if I’m not mistaken. All that info is available on CapGeek, btw.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
Appreciate you spelling it out for those of us who cannot access CapGeek at work.
The definition of being a Caps fan is watching the same team over and over and expecting different results.
FWIW, Perreault had performance bonuses in each of the two years prior to last season. Orlov, Kugryshev, Paquette, Eakin, Holtby and Grubauer all have them for 2011-12. I think that’s everyone, but I could be wrong (and if I am, expect to be corrected).
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
Any chance Paquette’s bonuses are tied to PIMs and/or suspensions? That’s the only chance he has of hitting them.
Obviously, this is all speculation.
Ha. On the plus side, he can hit them without them even willingly engaging him.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
by J.P. on Jul 19, 2011 3:16 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
Took a quick look at available bonuses in the CBA, and without knowing what was in Alzner’s contract, he could have hit a couple of them. Top 4 D in ice time (has to be, right?); top 3 D in +/- (looks like he was second). Maybe blocked shots, but I’d have to be looking somewhere else for it.
Don’t try to figure Sasha out. Just ride the wave.
Hamrlik At Kettler
Some good insight from him, And the more I hear from him and what he can bring I like the signing alot more.
Intresting to note from his session with the media today. He was asked about the playoff series with the Caps. He said:
1.They (Montreal) wanted it more
2.Better defensive play
3.Better goaltending.
The first one irks me, I think Joel Ward said the same thing in a round about way.
I do think with the players here now we dont hear that evil quote again!
But did he take his shirt off?
Obviously, this is all speculation.
by Rob Parker on Jul 19, 2011 2:38 PM EDT up reply actions 8 recs
Yep. He has three nipples. And a “bonus cushion” of his own.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
by J.P. on Jul 19, 2011 2:41 PM EDT up reply actions 5 recs
Was he the guy in the red man suit?
Armareddon.
by D'ohboy on Jul 19, 2011 2:44 PM EDT up reply actions 5 recs
Five-year deal for Stamkos with Tampa. Deets to follow.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
Hopefully it’s $10 million a year each year, no front-loading, with a no-movement clause and a requirement that the team name be changed to “Steven Stamkos featuring the Lightning”.
The definition of being a Caps fan is watching the same team over and over and expecting different results.
by Becca H on Jul 19, 2011 3:31 PM EDT up reply actions 3 recs
Lou’s going to be mighty pissed that Stevie is stealing his thunder on Introducing The New Devils Coach Who Will Lead Jersey Back To A Big Parade In The Arena Parking Lot Day.
Caps fans aren’t on the ledge; they’ve already jumped, and are merely trying to drag others into a mournful descent with them..--Stienz
Pledge Drive 2010-2011: SO KIDS CAN!! Help build a playground
Hopefully the all-too-common “sign and suck.”
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
Sign and lose the 6-pack, you mean.
Patron saint of quality footwear.
by fat_daddyo on Jul 19, 2011 3:36 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
Way to go Yzerman. Very nice deal for TBL. I wonder how Doughty and his agent feel about that. If a goal scorer like Stamkos gets 7.5 that has to push Doughty down a bit, right?
Of course, Doughty also has an Olympic Gold and some idiot didn’t even think Stamkos was good enough to make the team, so there’s that.
Obviously, this is all speculation.
RFA, no offer sheets forthcoming. Buys out one year of free agency, right?
Don’t try to figure Sasha out. Just ride the wave.
RFA status lasts 3 years after the ELC? If so, that would be 2 years of UFA time?
Patron saint of quality footwear.
that’s it? Fuck.
Caps fans aren’t on the ledge; they’ve already jumped, and are merely trying to drag others into a mournful descent with them..--Stienz
Pledge Drive 2010-2011: SO KIDS CAN!! Help build a playground
My dentist is probably rubbing his hands together as we speak.
When I'm mourning the death of a loved one, the first thing I do is read Roger Ebert's Tweets.
by Rather Bengt on Jul 19, 2011 3:39 PM EDT up reply actions
Actually, it’s avg. $7.5m, but $8, $8, $8, $8, $3.5. (Not sure why he’s taking the lower salary in that fifth year…)
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
Err, $5.5m in that last year, sorry.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
Just think of it as a five year, 5.5 Million AAV contract with a ten-million dollar signing bonus that is payable in equal installments over four years.
It’s simpler that way.
Atta dinnin stick a who!
by Gould Old Days on Jul 19, 2011 9:12 PM EDT up reply actions
Expected retirement (at the ripe old age of 26)?
"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 think it’s a good deal, but I’ve never been the biggest Stamkos fan. I’d take a healthy Malkin over Stamkos. But I’d take Stamkos over E. Staal. So good deal for Tampa, but not a huge bargain, I don’t think.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
And if his goal scoring dries up like so many others as they hit 25, then a long term high cap hit deal would hurt more. I’m with you in that I think Stamkos hasn’t demonstrated the ability to dominate on his own (maybe that’s not his fault since he is always with MSL), but something about him makes me think he isn’t a 100 point guy with Clark and Zubrus.
Obviously, this is all speculation.
What the…..?
even at 5.5 that last season, that’s weird.
Caps fans aren’t on the ledge; they’ve already jumped, and are merely trying to drag others into a mournful descent with them..--Stienz
Pledge Drive 2010-2011: SO KIDS CAN!! Help build a playground
5-year deal for Stamkos w/ TB, apparently. Thank god. One more annoying “will he sign????” story gone, eleventy billion to go.
The definition of being a Caps fan is watching the same team over and over and expecting different results.
So now all they have to do is sign Purcell and they will be nearly identical to last year’s team minus Bergenheim.
(Vokoun Signs 1 Year Deal With Washington @ 1.5 Million)
GMGM to the rest of the league: "**** just got real."
by Chaz-Capapalooza on Jul 19, 2011 3:49 PM EDT up reply actions
And surely Vinny, Marty and Dwayne will be every bit as good, as they continue not to age…
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
True story, but I think a lot of people were impressed with how Rolo and Marty played last year. They still have some gas left in the tank.
(Vokoun Signs 1 Year Deal With Washington @ 1.5 Million)
GMGM to the rest of the league: "**** just got real."
by Chaz-Capapalooza on Jul 19, 2011 3:56 PM EDT up reply actions
I hope there’s an epidemic of broken hips in The St. Pete Times Retirement Community Forum
Caps fans aren’t on the ledge; they’ve already jumped, and are merely trying to drag others into a mournful descent with them..--Stienz
Pledge Drive 2010-2011: SO KIDS CAN!! Help build a playground
MSL is immortal… Vinny might be. Rollie… I think his number is about up…
Winnipeg? Winnipeg??? Oy! (And now it's official...)
by MikeL-Pivonka on Jul 19, 2011 4:58 PM EDT up reply actions
I don’t think Roloson makes it to the playoffs as a strong keeper if Tampa rides him like they did last year.
They signed Boucher or someone, right?
Difference b/w Japers' Rink and Raw Charge...
They only have 17 comments regarding the signing of their future franchise player.
maybe that explains why no one is aware of it. They put the team at the bottom of the bay…..
Caps fans aren’t on the ledge; they’ve already jumped, and are merely trying to drag others into a mournful descent with them..--Stienz
Pledge Drive 2010-2011: SO KIDS CAN!! Help build a playground
They’re the ones who had the later tee times this year.
"My favorite fan base in D.C. Is United's. Period. The end." - Steinberg
MLS: If you're on crystal meth you can ref a match, just don't swear in the stands.
by Bald Pollack on Jul 19, 2011 5:17 PM EDT up reply actions
I’m guessing winning might bring them back. It’s not like it hasn’t happened elsewhere.
"My favorite fan base in D.C. Is United's. Period. The end." - Steinberg
MLS: If you're on crystal meth you can ref a match, just don't swear in the stands.
by Bald Pollack on Jul 19, 2011 5:34 PM EDT up reply actions
It brought them in after they won the Cup (I seem to recall they went on a bit of a sellout streak) – since then, however, the fanbase has dwindled again. When we went down in February there were almost as many of us in the stands as Tampa fans.
(Not bashing them, btw, Caps fans are no better – although to be fair, we don’t know how this fanbase would respond should the team win the Cup. But most fanbases are like that.)
The definition of being a Caps fan is watching the same team over and over and expecting different results.
there won’t be a fanbase left if the Caps win the Cup. the amount of alcohol that will be consumed will cause our livers to violently explode.
Caps fans aren’t on the ledge; they’ve already jumped, and are merely trying to drag others into a mournful descent with them..--Stienz
Pledge Drive 2010-2011: SO KIDS CAN!! Help build a playground
Co-signed.
"My favorite fan base in D.C. Is United's. Period. The end." - Steinberg
MLS: If you're on crystal meth you can ref a match, just don't swear in the stands.
by Bald Pollack on Jul 19, 2011 5:42 PM EDT up reply actions
Caps fans are no better
Couldn’t disagree more. Caps fans had pretty good attendance through the 80s and 90s with good, solid teams. Tampa needs an outstanding team to get even good attendance right now.
Atta dinnin stick a who!
by Gould Old Days on Jul 19, 2011 9:14 PM EDT up reply actions
I meant it as Caps fans and all other fans – the degree to which this is true varies by city but in general when the going gets tough there aren’t many teams that remain a huge draw until they start to get halfway decent again.
The definition of being a Caps fan is watching the same team over and over and expecting different results.
by Becca H on Jul 19, 2011 9:38 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
Agree 100%
even with the Redskins the stadium has started to look more and more empty as the team just continued to suck and suck more.
Who would say such a thing? The team didn’t start playing until 2005-06, so I’m not sure why anyone would expect the VC stands to be filled so quickly. If anything, I think it’s a testament to Caps fans that in just 3 short years they went from no team to never ending sell outs.
Obviously, this is all speculation.
by Rob Parker on Jul 19, 2011 6:28 PM EDT up reply actions 9 recs
and this year, with most likely no NBA and with the local NFL team bound to have a 08 Detroit Lions-like season,
Caps tickets will be harder to get than ever.
Come on now, the skins aren’t going to be quite that bad that they win no games (unless you have zero confidence in Beck and think they won’t sign someone else). They might wish they are nearly that bad though so they can end up with the number one draft pick to snatch up Andrew Luck.
I’m not an NBA fan, so I haven’t paid attention to their lockout news, but weren’t the Wizards games poorly attended last season? So that won’t be a huge change for the Caps ticket situation.
by vtcapsfan99 on Jul 19, 2011 10:22 PM EDT up reply actions
I don't have much confidence in Beck, and I can see the Skins trade McNabb for scraps....
I do see them winning more like three or four games this year. Six and they’re lucky.
As with Wizards games, paid attendance apparently went up and many new season tickets were sold between the 09-10 and 10-11 seasons, and the 10-11 to 11-12 seasons. The problem with Wizards games right now is that many people who buy the tickets don’t go to the games.
With (likely) no Wizards games in addition to a Skins team that isn't good right now (assuming the lockout ends this week)
I would think that there may be even more demand to go to Caps games, and it’s not like Verizon Center has had a problem selling out anyway. We want to see a winning team, and the Caps are the only major team in the area that provides that.
And that’s true of their baseball team as well. I know it’s awfully hot down there but still….. Their baseball and hockey teams should draw better than they do.
Rocking the Red for teams on the banks of the Potomac and at the Gateway Arch and Singing the Blues about Hockey.
by CapsFan75 on Jul 19, 2011 6:50 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
for reference when Kuz makes the crossing of the Atlantic to play for the caps, his Russian nickname is pronounced ‘Zhenya.’
Sounds better than ‘jizz,’ i guess
Jizz only sounds right if it’s Matt Bradley saying it on CSN in an interview…
Winnipeg? Winnipeg??? Oy! (And now it's official...)
by MikeL-Pivonka on Jul 19, 2011 4:59 PM EDT up reply actions
and only if Brads has an awkward pause that screams “Should I say it? Yeah, I’ll say it!”
Caps fans aren’t on the ledge; they’ve already jumped, and are merely trying to drag others into a mournful descent with them..--Stienz
Pledge Drive 2010-2011: SO KIDS CAN!! Help build a playground
Zhenya sounds like a sneeze.
I’ll stick with Geno or Kuz.
(Yes, I know about the avatar hounding - just pretend mine is invisible.)
Calling him “Geno,” in my opinion, is like slapping AO shirtless on a magazine spread entitled “the Ovechkin Show.” Too reminiscent of Pittsburgh there.
Red Line Station and @RedArmyLine, featuring coverage of the most frustrating team in the NHL
To help with basic Timeonice functions.
If I reference a lot of stats, just assume I haven't seen anything to contradict or invalidate them.
by red army line on Jul 19, 2011 5:29 PM EDT up reply actions
Think I’ll just call him Eugene.
You perhaps knew me better as "Your Nation's Capital." Same great commentary, now with 100% more transparency!
“Eugene and Doris? Ha ha ha ha ha! You geek!”
Boss: "How's that task coming?" Alz: "Eh, it's trending Sasha." Boss: "What?" Alz: "..."
by Alz Well That Ends Well on Jul 19, 2011 5:55 PM EDT up reply actions
FYI, Chad Dukes and Lavar have been talking about Ovie’s conditioning on 106.7 and referenced the video on Japers’ Rink. Lots of negativity and concern regarding Ovechkin’s gut.
Chad Dukes and Lavar have been talking about Ovie’s conditioning
Two dudes who haven’t a clue.
I understand they’re good at promoting the team. I just don’t think they’re very good radio (liked ’em early, got tired of them very quickly).
Don’t try to figure Sasha out. Just ride the wave.
Eh, they’re following the topic of conversation which got stoked here and at the Post.
That'll make your weagle wink!
The pants that bind us should be left behind us.
I’m not commenting only on that discussion. They tend to beat a topic to death. Maybe it’s because five hours a day is just too much time to fill.
Don’t try to figure Sasha out. Just ride the wave.
I still like them
but they sometimes are a bit too inflammatory on the Redskins, but then again, the Skins are the heart of the city for now.
Taylor Stefishen – The prospect picked up from Nashville in the trade for a conditional 2013 pick. Headed to play for the University of Calgary. He was injured at development camp (believe on Wed.) and while he was out on the ice testing his leg Saturday morning, didn’t participate that day.
http://www.pgcougars.com/article/taylor-stefishen-joins-u-of-c-dinos
really liking that Hockey Nomad bit. gives a great sense of Russian society through the lens of hockey. Two of my favourite things lol :)
Quite sad that both Ovi and Kuz have lost a brother.
That'll make your weagle wink!
The pants that bind us should be left behind us.
And I know he’s no longer in the organization, but Tyler Sloan’s sister, Tara, died in a car accident.
Since there’s so much negative stuff said about Sloan on this site, a reminder of his background for the few who might see this late post.
Thanks for sharing the links. I had missed that story about Tara. I hope Tyler gets another chance somewhere.
Are you not entertained?
Mr. Cinderella was certainly a fitting title for Sloan. Granted, he wasn’t a good player at the NHL level but an inspirational story for having made it. It was a good story of how he finally got a break.
Too bad about his sister, Tara. It was of special interest since my kids were both swimmers.
Rocking the Red for teams on the banks of the Potomac and at the Gateway Arch and Singing the Blues about Hockey.
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