Wednesday Caps Clips
by J.P. on Aug 17, 2011 6:47 AM EDT
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- The Hockey News whips out the crystal ball and picks as its 2010-11 Stanley Cup Champs... guess who. [Capitals Overtime, All Things Avalanche]
- The seat under Alex Ovechkin, it is hot... [NHL.com (Kreiser)]
- ... as it is for Messrs. Green and Semin as well. [PHT]
- Should the Caps pay particular mind to resting Tomas Vokoun during the regular season? [Left Wing Lock, NHL.com (Hradek)]
- On Erev Caps Convention, there will be an alumni game out at Kettler featuring Peter Bondra and Calle Johansson, plenty of other Caps legends, and disappointment that Olie Kolzig's hip prevents him from taking part. [Capitals, Kukla's Korner]
- The Caps are scoring big with the ladies. Awww yeah. [KOL]
- Former Redskin Andre Carter's son has great taste in athletes. [NESN (h/t @nateewell)]
- AO continues to be haunted by the Bolts. Sorta. [The Hopeful Chase]
- It's just about back-to-school time, so it's never too early to plan for higher education. [Capitals Outsider]
- Happy 26th birthday to Troy Brouwer and happy 54th birthday to Pete Peeters.
- Finally, from the Department of Shameless Self-Promotion, we're honored to be nominated for one of CBS Washington's "Most Valuable Blogger" awards... but would be even more honored to win, so go and vote for us (early and often), won't you? [CBS Washington]
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From NHL.com (Kreiser):
Ovechkin often seemed to lack the little something extra that made him a megastar
Like PPGs?
"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
Side note:
Maybe I am reading too deep into this, but doesn’t this read like Stamkos was a bit of a let down?
Stamkos’ hot start (21 goals in 22 games) sparked talk that he could score 50 goals in 50 games; instead, he finished with 45 in 82 games.
"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
Well, 24 goals in 60 games pro-rates to ~32 goals over an 82 game season… which would be disappointing for Stamkos, no?
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
But it was still a 45 goal season.
"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
Indeed. And the playoffs went very well, too. But I still think it’s fair and natural to be a bit let down when your guy has 21 through 22 and ends up with 45 – you’ve gone from the brink of “historic” to a 10% decline from the year before.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
(That said, if I was writing the article, I’d have gone with something like “Stamkos’ hot start (21 goals in 22 games) sparked talk that he could score 50 goals in 50 games; instead, he finished with a still-impressive 45 in 82 games.”)
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
still-impressive
Yes, exactly.
"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
From KK
Even the alumni game prior to the Winter Classic had to be viewed by Caps fans online, as it was not broadcast in the area.
Ahem. It wasn’t particularly broadcast anywhere other than NHLN, was it? And not well, as they used much of the time to interview people. This was not something the Caps could control, it was a Penguins WC host event.
I’m thinking we’re not really going to want to link to this guy, remembering his introductory post.
Don’t try to figure Sasha out. Just ride the wave.
and most of the time was a Mario Lovefest.
that guy….reminds me, I need to make that Schultz graphic…..
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
Summary of bullet points 2 & 3: Caps “Young Guns” are on the on the hot seat. (I can just picture a photo shop image of them.)
Rocking the Red for teams on the banks of the Potomac and at the Gateway Arch and Singing the Blues about Hockey.
___
And the one not mentioned is certainly not immune from that tag.
Btw, when we ran a similar, Caps-specific post a year ago, we had AO at three (out of five) hot sticks and Green at two. We’ll see where they end up this year.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
From that post:
Bruce Boudreau. No, he’s not on the verge of being fired. But in nearly three full seasons with the Caps, Gabby has followed up a 113-point average regular season point pace with one playoff series win and three series losses… to lower-ranked teams… on home ice. With payroll and expectations being what they are, this is an important year for Boudreau’s boys to show what they’ve got. If that ain’t much, someone’s going to have to be held responsible for another disappointing spring.
… and that someone was Boyd Gordon. Second round exit… it’s all your fault!
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
There he is, ‘whoop’ him!
"My favorite fan base in D.C. Is United's. Period. The end." - Steinberg
by Bald Pollack on Aug 17, 2011 7:54 AM EDT up reply actions
Losses to the Flyers, Penguins, Canadiens and Lightning. Wins over the Rangers and Rangers. Isn’t that two playoff series wins and four series losses?
"Fais gros comme moi!" - Alex Ovechkin
by Gould Old Days on Aug 17, 2011 5:35 PM EDT up reply actions
The blockquote was from a year ago.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
an objective view of this
Well since I am not a Capitals fan….
When Ovie did this … “Were not worthy ! All hail the holy hockey stick” Trick after scoring the goal…
Some people were upset
Some saw it was great and great enthusiasm
I thought it was great and great enthusiasm… Man .. GOD forbid someone brings some excitement into the game or the NHL.
FLYERROB ! YOU STAY AWESOME FLYERS FANS ! ~ ~ ~ Lori Wilson Gray ~ ~ April 07th 1967 - May 27th 2011 ~ May you rest in Peace ~ I love you and miss you big Sis ! I cant believe at 44 yrs of age .. you went to sleep and never woke up. I promise to take care of Matt and Emily for you. With Love, your baby Brother.
I read the “How to Get the Capitalsology” piece in Capitals Outsider. There was the remark that you don’t need to know about sine, cosine, and tangents in “real life”. But trigonometric functions would be used in “The Physics of Hockey” since it would make use of concepts like angular velocity and angular momentum and “Capitals Architecture” would make use of trigonometry. (And I have made use of the Pythagorean Theorem on the job.)
—- Shameless math plug here
Rocking the Red for teams on the banks of the Potomac and at the Gateway Arch and Singing the Blues about Hockey.
as to resting Vokun, I suggest they aim for a 60/40 split because as evidenced by this wonderful bit of research high goalie minutes != Stanley Cup win
Haven’t actually listened to it but:
Steve_Lloyd
Matt Bradley interview where he calls out Alex Semin can be found here. Great, honest stuff: http://t.co/EBn2omy #Team1200
You perhaps knew me better as "Your Nation's Capital." Same great commentary, now with 100% more transparency!
QnD:
On staying: Some talks happened, though nothing came of it.
On the lack of Caps postseason success: Some guys didn’t show up, though he doesn’t name names, thinks the room was too nonchalant and undisciplined.
Thinks the guys that didn’t play well were the ones getting more ice time and the best guys would play “no matter what.”
Were guys who missed practice with “questionable” injuries
On Semin (the one guy he names): “just doesn’t care…almost get the sense he wants to be back in Russia.”
Thinks Bruce was(is?) in a tough position because the stars get the money and people come to see them, but sometimes they maybe should sit/not see as much time when they’re not playing well to send a message to the room.
Thinks AO “has some growing up to do” vis a vis “taking care of himself,” but he’s all in for winning a Cup here.
"My favorite fan base in D.C. Is United's. Period. The end." - Steinberg
by Bald Pollack on Aug 17, 2011 9:13 AM EDT up reply actions 4 recs
Pretty tough talk from a guy who played all nine playoff games and went 0-0-0, -3.
"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.
Which apparently makes all of his observations false? OK.
"My favorite fan base in D.C. Is United's. Period. The end." - Steinberg
by Bald Pollack on Aug 17, 2011 9:30 AM EDT up reply actions
No, but think looking in the mirror would also help.
"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’m guessing plenty of that occurs already when you’re a career 4th liner.
"My favorite fan base in D.C. Is United's. Period. The end." - Steinberg
by Bald Pollack on Aug 17, 2011 9:36 AM EDT up reply actions
Not sure his playoff line in any way detracts from his ability to assess what’s gone on in the room.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
by J.P. on Aug 17, 2011 9:30 AM EDT up reply actions 4 recs
The question was directly about why the Caps can’t go far in the playoffs, so I saw his answer as addressing that timeframe. His solution was to replace Semin with Chimera. Would anyone here agree with that?
"I remembered when he said that and I kind of looked at him during the warm up and told myself that I got to shut these guys out tonight." - Michal Neuvirth, 02.06.11.
Of course not.
BP gave a great, wide-ranging rundown of what was said. You implied that because he was pointless and minus-3 in the playoffs that it lacked validity and/or that he shouldn’t have answered questions that were asked of him (or been so forthcoming). I disagreed with those implications.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
I clicked on Em’s link, so I guess my comment should have gone under that, not BP’s synopsis. If he had taken some of the blame for the 4th line not performing well in the playoffs, rather than just pointing the finger at the top 6 (and Semin in particular) then it wouldn’t have just come across to me like sour grapes.
"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 kind of agree that it came across as a bottom-6 forward taking shots at the top-6 forwards. But it was also pretty accurate.
by _Skullduggery_ on Aug 17, 2011 10:16 AM EDT up reply actions
I’d even add that his Chimera for Semin solution was less “here’s what we should do” and more towards his overall observation of top guys still seeing a ton of time regardless of form (which we’ve talked about before).
Besides, he even alludes to him not being a part of said solution as is.
"My favorite fan base in D.C. Is United's. Period. The end." - Steinberg
by Bald Pollack on Aug 17, 2011 10:19 AM EDT up reply actions
His solution was to give the guys who were playing well in the playoffs more ice time. That sounds sensible.
(Yes, I know about the avatar hounding - just pretend mine is invisible.)
I was responding specifically to bagace’s misinterpretation of Bradley’s comments.
Benching stars might be difficult of impossible, but limiting their minutes when they aren’t being effective has some merit. The playoffs are a different animal, but even people on this board have called for benching of stars to send a message.
(Yes, I know about the avatar hounding - just pretend mine is invisible.)
Whyno transcribed portions of the interview, including this:
The way I look at it, in the playoffs you’re gonna have guys who play well in the playoffs and guys who don’t, so in my opinion you should kinda run with the guys that are playing well, and I don’t think we always did that there, which for whatever reason I don’t know. If it’s a guy like Jason Chimera who’s maybe your third-line guy playing well, I think you should play him more if one of the top two-line guys aren’t playing well."He praised Ovi and called out Semin in other parts of the interview. Is it that far-reaching for me to assume when he talks of benching “one of top two-line guys” that he’s speaking about Semin? Do you think he means Knuble or Laich?
"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.
Hard to envision a suggestion to sit Backstrom, given the team’s options at that position (which I think is your point). So yeah, by process of elimination…
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
I don’t need a transcription. I listened to the actual interview several times.
And the top two lines are made up of six guys.
Brads was saying that if the players on the top two lines weren’t playing well then players who are playing well should probably be given more minutes.
(Yes, I know about the avatar hounding - just pretend mine is invisible.)
First of all, his role has never been to score. Second he played less than 9 minutes a game, with virtually no PPTOI (:12/gm). From my memory of Bradley in the playoffs, he didn’t make any huge mistakes and never seemed to be dogging it. I wish the same could be said for some other players.
I have planned my grand attacks; I will stand behind their backs. With my brand new battle-axe, they will taste my wrath. They will hear me say as the pavement whirls, "I hate California girls."
by Steckel Me Elmo on Aug 17, 2011 9:39 AM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
However, in the span of nine games you do expect the 4th line to combine for about 2 goals. Hendricks, Gordon, Bradley all went 0-0-0 (Hendricks played only 7 games). Almost everyone played badly against Tampa including the 4th line. They share the blame with the rest of the team, relative to their role but still.
Calling out performance to validate/contradict opinion only works on bloggers and Barry Melrose.
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.
A lot of this, unfortunately, doesn’t surprise me.
I have planned my grand attacks; I will stand behind their backs. With my brand new battle-axe, they will taste my wrath. They will hear me say as the pavement whirls, "I hate California girls."
by Steckel Me Elmo on Aug 17, 2011 9:29 AM EDT up reply actions
He said about being undisciplined that he didn’t mean guys going out the night before the game, it was things like being unprepared for practice or not practicing due to questionable injuries, or being unfocused.
He said Semin was extremely talented and could be the best player in the league if he wanted but he just didn’t care and he didn’t show up sometimes and that hurt them.
He said that BB should play someone like Chimera in the playoffs if he was playing well and someone on the the top two lines wasn’t.
Chances of Bradley’s comments lighting a fire under Sasha? Cloudy with a chance of meaballs?
Don’t try to figure Sasha out. Just ride the wave.
Semin likely never even hears about Brads comments as he hibernates in Siberia. I doubt he cares at all about getting called out. If he cared, he would also care about not performing to his best all the time.
I recall a radio interview where Slava Malamud said Semin doesn’t care about his image in North America, that he wanted American journalists to think he was a jerk so they would leave him alone, but he really wasn’t a jerk, it just benefited him to have that appearance.
by vtcapsfan99 on Aug 17, 2011 10:32 AM EDT up reply actions
I wish he would think about how he comes across to his teammates and how that impacts the room.
(Yes, I know about the avatar hounding - just pretend mine is invisible.)
by oldemystix on Aug 17, 2011 11:43 AM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
I like Brads, but I’ve never been a fan of guys who leave an organization and then speak badly about them when they hit their new city. It’s certainly his right, but I’ve always felt “no comment” is the best way to go when being asked about your past team, particularly one that treated you well when you were there.
It’s not like he’s saying anything new. Pretty much everything there has been said here, at some point.
My mind is all twtisted like a peanut.
Sorry, I just don’t like the optics when an ex-player decides to go public on his old teammates after his former team doesn’t re-sign him. If he had voiced those kind of concerns while he was here and then was just repeating it, that’s different. But Brads was Mr. Positive when he wore a Caps jersey. Now that Florida is signing his paycheck, it’s OK to air the dirty laundry. I orginally felt kind of bad about him leaving, but not any more.
I haven’t listened to it but others have implied that the hosts were trying to get him to say even more and he actually was fairly diplomatic.
Also I’m more concerned with whether he said those things to his teammates while he was here (not that we’ll ever know) – had he said this kind of stuff publicly while wearing a Caps jersey I would have been both shocked and a bit upset. Deal with stuff like this in the room, not through the media.
The definition of being a Caps fan is watching the same team over and over and expecting different results.
Maybe, but it’s got nothing to do with this quote. I’d be willing to bet Hendricks (and almost everyone else on the team) are in full agreement RE: Alex Semin.
Armareddon.
And Alex Semin gave not even the slightest of fucks. He’s like a cat, that one.
by DrinkingPartner on Aug 17, 2011 2:55 PM EDT up reply actions
___
Press release from the Semin camp:
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
by J.P. on Aug 17, 2011 3:04 PM EDT up reply actions 12 recs
I don’t feel that he has aired dirty laundry. He answered the questions posed to him in a balanced way, with some insight, and without revealing much that wasn’t already known.
Posters on this board have wanted departing players to be more open about what they see as the strengths and weaknesses of this team. I remember some salivating over the possiblilty of Arnott revealing all to the media; now when a guy, who is in more of a position to know the ins and outs of this team speaks, some of you are cringing and questioning his loyalty. In my opinion, nothing Brads said warrants such a reaction.
(Yes, I know about the avatar hounding - just pretend mine is invisible.)
by oldemystix on Aug 17, 2011 12:33 PM EDT up reply actions 6 recs
Are any of the posters that wanted veterans to be more open the same as the ones that are upset now?
Obviously, this is all speculation.
I was trying to remember, but felt searching the archives would be too time consuming. If anyone has time one their hands, another thing to look at would be whether any of those speaking out now also spoke out when others said they wanted veterans to be more open.
(Yes, I know about the avatar hounding - just pretend mine is invisible.)
Green said something similar in a radio interview about Semin earlier this summer, but it wasn’t quite as harsh. He said that Semin was one of the most skilled guys in the league and anytime he’s on the ice he’s a threat and can score goals, it’s just a matter if Semin wants to push through and score.
Also – Brads was asked about the “hit” on Crosby in the Winter Classic. Mentioned Steckel was his roommate on the road, called him a gentle giant, and said Steckel wasn’t looking at Crosby, and it was completely unintentional.
Because now I can justify browsing and commenting during the work day with the argument that I am promoting my business.
by Sombrero Guy on Aug 17, 2011 10:37 AM EDT up reply actions 3 recs
Good look, I bailed once they switched to talking about the Sens.
"My favorite fan base in D.C. Is United's. Period. The end." - Steinberg
by Bald Pollack on Aug 17, 2011 10:38 AM EDT up reply actions
Oddly enough, THAT little snippet hasn’t really made the rounds…it should.
The definition of being a Caps fan is watching the same team over and over and expecting different results.
I fear certain segments of the Canadian hockey media establishment will crucify Brads for sticking to the facts and they’ll attempt to strip him of his citizenship.
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
Good luck with that one getting traction.
The other snippet that hasn’t is the one on Tallon. I really wished they had asked a follow up on his comments in terms of if he meant what he said in relation to GMGM or just in general.
The Artist Formerly Known as CP2Devil.
Associate Editor at Five For Howling.
by Carl Putnam on Aug 17, 2011 10:41 AM EDT up reply actions
what did Brads say?
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
Going from memory, I think it was with Tallon you could have a direct conversation, know where you stood more (or words to that effect).
"My favorite fan base in D.C. Is United's. Period. The end." - Steinberg
by Bald Pollack on Aug 17, 2011 10:45 AM EDT up reply actions
interesting. of course, they’re still in a bit of a honeymoon period in Florida.
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
Yes.
Not surprising as players seem to love Tallon. Of course, the way he uses his owner’s checkbooks might also have something to do with that.
The Artist Formerly Known as CP2Devil.
Associate Editor at Five For Howling.
by Carl Putnam on Aug 17, 2011 10:50 AM EDT up reply actions
You get millions of dollars! You get millions of dollars! EVERYONE GETS MILLIONS OF DOLLARS!
/Oprah
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 Aug 17, 2011 10:52 AM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
_______
I have planned my grand attacks; I will stand behind their backs. With my brand new battle-axe, they will taste my wrath. They will hear me say as the pavement whirls, "I hate California girls."
by Steckel Me Elmo on Aug 17, 2011 11:00 AM EDT up reply actions 10 recs
One of my favorite gifs of all time.
"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 Aug 17, 2011 11:01 AM EDT up reply actions
Called dealing with him (Tallon) “a breath of fresh air.”
"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.
In direct contrast to his last GM or in general?
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
That was the problem. It was unclear, at least to me, which he meant. The hosts never followed up to clarify.
The Artist Formerly Known as CP2Devil.
Associate Editor at Five For Howling.
by Carl Putnam on Aug 17, 2011 10:55 AM EDT up reply actions
Never named GMGM (or any others), but I always assumed that expression implied that he’d been dealing with a foul stench before.
"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.
gentle giant…..right until you get in his way. right, Eric Fehr?
I kid, I still love Stecks, even if he is a damn dirty devil.
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 mean just looking at Semin it almost looks like he doesn’t care. He always seems like a guy, when viewed from afar, that looks disinterested and wouldn’t mind playing in Russia.
Funny though, because when you hear quotes from him and interviews he always seems upbeat and reaffirms that this is where he wants to be.
“I hef say what for $6.7 million dollars? Ho-k. I love NHL and DC and do not want to go to Russia. Crosby is dead wood. Kane is awesome. Moneez please. "
J.P.: You might be the king of all geeks here…
by Alz Well That Ends Well on Aug 17, 2011 11:52 AM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
I think it is a little dangerous to judge someone as not caring because they kept their feelings in. This is classic introvert behavior, an introvert don’t reveal how they feel about things when they are not in a situation where they feel comfortable. According to Chesnokov on twitter, Semin does care, his problem is motivation. I understand this because I would love to lose 10 lbs, I care about gaining weight, but do I do anything about it? Nope because I lack motivation.
by vtcapsfan99 on Aug 17, 2011 12:16 PM EDT up reply actions
Are you saying he lacks motivation to share his feelings more openly or to perform at a higher level? $6.7MM and a chance for the Stanley Cup should be all the motivation he needs for the latter.
J.P.: You might be the king of all geeks here…
by Alz Well That Ends Well on Aug 17, 2011 12:29 PM EDT up reply actions
After 6(?) years on the team, introvert or not, Semin should at least be comfortable with his teammates and they should have an idea that he cares. That doesn’t seem to be the case.
(Yes, I know about the avatar hounding - just pretend mine is invisible.)
I agree with you on that. Brads says that Sasha doesn’t care. How does he know? How much did Brads engage Semin? Did he ever talk to him, have him over for dinner? Talk to him at the time about anything? Brads states it as a fact without evidence, and I mean real evidence, not just feelings.
I remember this year Knuble admitted he’d never really talked to Semin, had never had dinner with him. Why not? I would have expected Knuble to reach out and try to engage all of the younger players, particularly one so important to the success of the team. I think it says as much about some of the other players on the team as it does about Semin that they really don’t seem to know him after all of these years.
I don’t doubt that Brads feels this way, and I still like him. But, I also think there is a huge disconnect here between people like Semin and many others. I think that disconnect is a combination of culture (nationality), personality, and role on the team.
One reason I’ve always been sympathetic toward Semin is I recognize him. At time in my life I’ve been called the ice queen and it wasn’t because of my skating ability. Some people cultivate a stoic or cold outward appearance and it’s mistaken for indifference at best or a lack of caring at the worst. I know how much I care about things, but don’t show it outwardly, so I recognize that in Semin. I also think he is a perfectionist. It does not mean he always performs perfectly, but wants to so badly that he’d rather do nothing than do it badly. It’s a constant tension and struggle. I think it’s one reason he goes it alone at times because he can’t see that he can make the perfect play (and I don’t mean necessarily “pretty,” but efficiently effective) by passing to a linemate who is not nearly as capable. It may not be right for him to do that, but I think it stems from him caring a lot. He just sees how to effect that differently from the type of person who’s MO is just get it done somehow, even if it’s not very good or has to be done again.
Ok, back to getting kids ready for college. One left yesterday, one more to go.
Are you not entertained?
by Seminrocks on Aug 17, 2011 12:57 PM EDT up reply actions 4 recs
I think we’ve heard enough to infer that Semin could be more engaged than he is, Don’t you? I mean, Arnott basically said the same thing last year, then Green this offseason before Brads.
And frankly I don’t blame Brads at all. If there were someone on my team who wasn’t engaged, got tons of ice time and didn’t do shit with it in the playoffs I’d be pissed too.
I agree with you on that. Brads says that Sasha doesn’t care. How does he know? How much did Brads engage Semin? Did he ever talk to him, have him over for dinner? Talk to him at the time about anything? Brads states it as a fact without evidence, and I mean real evidence, not just feelings.
They played together for several years. You don’t need to go out to dinner or have heart-to-hearts to know who cares in that situation. In the locker room it becomes pretty clear pretty quick who gives a damn.
by David Getz on Aug 17, 2011 1:02 PM EDT up reply actions 5 recs
Wouldn’t the possibility that over 5+ years as teammates they never talked, had dinner, whatever make the point pretty clearly that the guy didn’t care to an acceptable degree about being a part of a team?
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
At some point it’s a two-way street. If every player who leaves seems to be saying the same things, maybe Semin should start offering to take people to dinner.
J.P.: You might be the king of all geeks here…
by Alz Well That Ends Well on Aug 17, 2011 1:17 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
I think we’ve gone a speculation too far – to assume they’ve never talked or had dinner and then to assume one party never asked the other is more than a little silly.
Bottom line: Alex Semin has not integrated himself into the team. Do you ever see him “out with the guys” when they’re doing whatever it is that they do? Do you see him frequently joking around at practice (cue the “sitting on Neuvy’s knee” photo, but even then… ever with a non-Euro)?
The guys don’t necessarily all have to be BFFs or anything, but when you combine the self-imposed isolationism with what goes on on and around the ice, I don’t think there’s any valid reason to question Bradley’s assessment.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
There’s a picture somewhere of him sitting on Johnny’s knee… /hides
The definition of being a Caps fan is watching the same team over and over and expecting different results.
So he’s into giving goalies lap dances…
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
by J.P. on Aug 17, 2011 1:26 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
Hey, you can’t say he didn’t try to carve out a niche for himself on the team… :)
But in all seriousness, I’m with you on this point. We don’t know much about what goes on with these guys and how much they socialize, but based on what we DO know he doesn’t seem like part of the team to the extent that he includes them – or is included by them – in the personal side (unless Ovechkin is in charge).
I will say that I’ve seen him goofing around with lots of different guys, North Americans and Euros alike, in practices and on the bench, so my sense isn’t that the guys don’t like him – just that they don’t get him. Or maybe he doesn’t get them. Whatever it is, neither side seems to have been successful in figuring the other out.
…but again, who the hell knows?
The definition of being a Caps fan is watching the same team over and over and expecting different results.
More importantly, how does any of that discredit what Matt Bradley said?
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
Ah, even more important point – it doesn’t. Whether the two hang out or not doesn’t impact the things Brads sees (or doesn’t see) in the room, on the ice, in practice, etc.
I think after the amount of time they’ve played together they probably have a pretty good read on one another, whether or not they’ve had lengthy conversations about their hopes and dreams during that span.
The definition of being a Caps fan is watching the same team over and over and expecting different results.
No it doesn’t, but when a statement like that is made, it needs a follow-up: why do you say that? What has happened to make you say and feel that? How do you know? I always want to know the why for things.
Are you not entertained?
Question: if Bradley had said “it seems as if he just doesn’t care” instead of “he just doesn’t care,” would all be ok with you? Arguendo, instead of stating as fact that the player didn’t care (how would he know? he’s not in his head), if he couched it as his impression, would it have been better?
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
Specific examples would of course be great. But with his tenure and track record, there’s more than enough credibility to put stock in that assessment.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
Then you’d do a better job than an Ottawa DJ.
It doesn’t change the fact that this guy spent more time on Caps ice than anyone not named Ovechkin over the last 6 years and some deference should be paid.
"My favorite fan base in D.C. Is United's. Period. The end." - Steinberg
by Bald Pollack on Aug 17, 2011 1:49 PM EDT up reply actions
Although, given what we know about the core of this team and going out, maybe it’s better that Semin isn’t part of that…
Obviously, this is all speculation.
True. By shunning negative influences, Alex Semin has proven himself to be the consummate team player.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
Right, I’m sure the Flyers will be trading for him shortly as part of their efforts to overhaul the clubhouse.
Alex Semin is a one-man Dry Island.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
00000000
Only because none of the other islands made an effort to talk to him!
I would actually say he’s more of a…
J.P.: You might be the king of all geeks here…
by Alz Well That Ends Well on Aug 17, 2011 2:16 PM EDT up reply actions
I also share qualities with Semin, so I know where he’s coming from 80% of the time, but boy does he piss me off. He gives other talented, awkward introverts a bad name. To fit in, at some point the introvert has to show some glimmer of reciprocity, otherwise you’re always the stranger in the room. From what others have said (and from recognizing the type of people they are), they have made overtures, but Sasha hasn’t kept up his end of things. Most people get tired and give up after a while. I’ve seen it play out in my own life. They have done their part; Sasha needs to step up.
(Yes, I know about the avatar hounding - just pretend mine is invisible.)
LTNS. Perhaps, just that notion still is based on all of the usual ways we know people care, outward signs. I still would like to know specifically, exactly why Brads says that. You may think you don’t have to have a conversation with someone or go to dinner with them to know, but do you think it’s good NOT to do those things? My point is that IF you do those things, perhaps you learn more than you knew. It’s the whole reason we have social interaction, not just workplace interaction. It’s opportunity to find out more about people you spend time with, what makes them tick. We all know Sasha’s a different kind of cat, as Arnott said, which is all the more reason to try to get to know him better. I like factual details to back up statements like Brads’.
Are you not entertained?
or, you know, teammates made attempts to connect and Semin pushed them away. You have as much clue as the rest of us to the inner workings of the Caps: none. So, please, stop trying to imply that Matt Bradley or anyone else went all Mean Girls on poor, precious Sasha and his delicate feelings.
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 Aug 17, 2011 1:13 PM EDT up reply actions 4 recs
So please, that’s a mischaracterization of what I said. It’s just as valid to be the devil’s advocate on one side as the other. Brads took a big dump on Sasha. I’d just like to know exactly why he said that. I’d really like to know what he’s actually experienced. But, I won’t get to. So we all speculate.
FWIW from twitterverse:
priscillamay1 Priscilla Villanueva
@VogsCaps that’s a very tough personality in a team environment, but he’s definitely not malicious. I just don’t think he can help it.
priscillamay1 Priscilla Villanueva
@VogsCaps my impression: he is PAINFULLY shy, has a lot of pride, & he’s afraid 2 belong to anything because he doesn’t want to get hurt.
VogsCaps Mike Vogel
@priscillamay1 I don’t disagree with those assessments.
Are you not entertained?
by Seminrocks on Aug 17, 2011 1:42 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
But no one is calling Semin malicious. We’re saying that Brads was not being malicious when he said Semin doesn’t care. He may be wrong, but it is the impression that teammate after teammate has taken away from the situation. If they all get that and your response is that it is because Semin is a delicate flower who they never make an attempt to spend time with, well, maybe all those things are true, but they aren’t conducive to a successful team chemistry.
J.P.: You might be the king of all geeks here…
by Alz Well That Ends Well on Aug 17, 2011 1:44 PM EDT up reply actions
Just showing a conversation there. I did not use that term. It was more about Vogs seeming to agree that a lot of it is just Semin’s shy personality. That’s all.
Are you not entertained?
Ok and let’s say that’s a legit read. Maybe that kind of person, despite their physical skill, isn’t going to be ultimately successful in a team sport like hockey. Or maybe they will achieve individual success, but not team success.
Overall point is that Brads is not a sports psychologist. He is a hockey player. And his read, after 5 years, is that Semin doesn’t care. So who can change that? Brads or Semin?
J.P.: You might be the king of all geeks here…
by Alz Well That Ends Well on Aug 17, 2011 1:48 PM EDT up reply actions
I actually find it interesting that after 5 years Brads thinks Semin doesn’t care, if in fact he really does care a lot. How does Semin act that he doesn’t show that to his teammates? There must be a big disconnect in the locker room. I was also surprised that apparently Knuble hadn’t really talked to Semin. It seemed that Arnott made a lot of efforts to get to know him that others maybe hadn’t. I’m not blaming either side. It’s just curious that Bradley didn’t really know Semin and what he wants after all their time together. Semin does seem friendlier with some guys, like Mike, Nicky, Carlson judging by the way he hangs on them and smiles. But didn’t Nicky in that same article where Knuble said he didn’t really know Semin also say he didn’t know Semin all that well? Maybe Ovie and Varly were the only ones that really did know Semin. Slava thought it was best for Ovie and Semin to be separated. He thought their close friendship would be divisive to the rest the team and make other feel excluded.
he’s afraid 2 belong to anything because he doesn’t want to get hurt.
Give me a fucking break.
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by J.P. on Aug 17, 2011 1:46 PM EDT up reply actions 9 recs
Sounds like the plot for that hockey musical movie Battle of California was talking about the other day.
J.P.: You might be the king of all geeks here…
by Alz Well That Ends Well on Aug 17, 2011 1:47 PM EDT up reply actions
Yeah, pull it out of context. It’s about the bigger idea of his shy personality making him hard to read and Vogs not disagreeing or seeming to agree, whichever.
Are you not entertained?
So Vogs is now a better source on things Semin than a guy he played with for years?
"My favorite fan base in D.C. Is United's. Period. The end." - Steinberg
by Bald Pollack on Aug 17, 2011 1:50 PM EDT up reply actions
His actions on and off the ice led a guy who played with him for six years to say he doesn’t care. They didn’t lead that player to say “he’s hard to read.” Matt Bradley found him easy enough to read and easy enough to call out as not caring. Hell, he volunteered his name when the host offered him the option to not name names.
There are two things here:
1) Alex Semin doesn’t care. Maybe he does, maybe he doesn’t. Only Alex Semin and his deity of choice know for sure.
2) Matt Bradley believes that Alex Semin doesn’t care. This is inarguably true and, given Brads’ credibility, meaningful.
Reasonable minds can carry on an absolutely pointless debate about the first point, but there’s no arguing the second.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
by J.P. on Aug 17, 2011 1:55 PM EDT up reply actions 5 recs
He’s our delicate little flower. Wouldn’t want to see his feelings get hurt.
by reesem37 on Aug 17, 2011 2:07 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
Fun fact: in the history of this blog, I’ve never used the phrase “give me a fucking break” before, so kudos to @priscillamay1 for eliciting it from me.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
by J.P. on Aug 17, 2011 2:12 PM EDT up reply actions 3 recs
You’re not playing devil’s advocate. You are repeatedly calling into question the integrity of someone solely because he dares to criticize a player that you believe can do no wrong. Someone, I might add, who has spent far more time around Alex Semin than you have and is thus far better placed to make a judgment on Alex Semin.
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 Aug 17, 2011 2:17 PM EDT up reply actions 5 recs
Vogs also, it should be noted, wasn’t ardently defending Semin:
@VogsCaps I know he is. Doesn’t mean Brads is wrong, tho. @dchesnokov: Sasha is a good kid. And I am saying it not because I am Russian
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
When a guy is 27, and you’re defending him by saying he’s a “good kid”, then he needs to grow the fuck up.
"Fais gros comme moi!" - Alex Ovechkin
by Gould Old Days on Aug 17, 2011 5:45 PM EDT up reply actions 4 recs
ok so if you are critical of the word choice of Chesnokov, which probably means nothing, what do you say about John Carlson, quoted by TEB on twitter:
Caps John Carlson defended Alex Semin, calling him a good person and the “most exiting player in the NHL.”
Carlson’s a good kid.
"Fais gros comme moi!" - Alex Ovechkin
by Gould Old Days on Aug 17, 2011 5:56 PM EDT up reply actions 6 recs
If you’re being paid to play a game, you’re still a kid.
Or put another way, they’re all kids to me. Well, almost all (Knuble’s not, for one).
Don’t try to figure Sasha out. Just ride the wave.
Mike Knuble’s not a kid.
"Fais gros comme moi!" - Alex Ovechkin
by Gould Old Days on Aug 17, 2011 5:56 PM EDT up reply actions
I said that, right?
Besides, it was all said with a smile, anyway.
Don’t try to figure Sasha out. Just ride the wave.
yup
"Fais gros comme moi!" - Alex Ovechkin
by Gould Old Days on Aug 17, 2011 9:27 PM EDT up reply actions
It is beyond unfathomable that two guys could play on the same team for 5 seasons and not really know each other. Considering how much time these guys spend in the locker room together there is no way they could remain complete strangers.
Obviously, this is all speculation.
by Rob Parker on Aug 17, 2011 1:58 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
One reason I’ve always been sympathetic toward Semin is I recognize him. At time in my life I’ve been called the ice queen and it wasn’t because of my skating ability. Some people cultivate a stoic or cold outward appearance and it’s mistaken for indifference at best or a lack of caring at the worst. I know how much I care about things, but don’t show it outwardly, so I recognize that in Semin.
How do you know? How much have you engaged with Semin? Have you ever talked to him, had him over for dinner?
"Essentially, all models are wrong, but some are useful" George E.P. Box
by Knee high to a duck on Aug 17, 2011 4:18 PM EDT up reply actions 7 recs
This is such a scathing indictment of last year’s Caps and really confirms everything many of us suspected. The thing is, what’s to change Semin’s motivation and ice time this year? Same coach, same player.
Right. And everyone’s in a lather over the Semin comment, but they’re missing the forest for the trees on accountability, preparedness, etc.
One year from now, Alex Semin likely won’t be here. Are we as sure those other, bigger problems won’t be?
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
So you want to stop discussing Semin and instead discuss how guys weren’t prepared for practice, didn’t practice because of minor injuries, and weren’t focused enough. Ok, so what can they do about these things? It seems that GMGM/Boudreau have made the rounds and told guys to be more serious and have a different attitude. Not sure what to say about not practicing because of minor injuries. As far as not being prepared for practice, what is that exactly? Not playing attention in meetings and video sessions so they don’t know how to implement the things Boudreau wants to implement? This team confuses me. On one hand, they successfully managed to change the system to a more defensive style. But apparently they still had many issues implementing what they were taught as on ice results suggested. This is assuming Boudreau taught them the proper way to play against Tampa in the playoffs and how to execute the PP.
I think those are the bigger issues, don’t you? And no, there aren’t easy or obvious answers, but I think those questions are more important than “Does Alex Semin give a shit?”
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
Yes, they have a longer term impact. So what would you say about those issues, since you feel they are more important to discuss.
Nothing I haven’t said before, other than that it’s disappointing that they persist and it’s significant that a player mentioned them (as opposed to fans and/or media speculating).
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
It’s taking a long time, or does it just seem that way?, for this talented team to learn, and absorb the lessons, that the road to the Cup isn’t a cake walk. Although in some ways that isn’t surprsing. Despite working hard, if you haven’t had adversity because your talent has been great enough to carry you through, then figuring out how to overcome something can be the biggest challenge. A team situation can compound efforts because success doesn’t depend on one person.
This team clears one hurdle, thinks their problems are behind them only to be brought back to earth after falling at the next hurdle.
(Yes, I know about the avatar hounding - just pretend mine is invisible.)
I get that its a big deal that a player finally said this stuff out in the open, but nothing he actually said is exactly breaking news around these parts. All of the following topics he brought up have been discussed by Caps fans for several years.
1. Semin is disinterested play at times.
2. Ovi needing to care of himself better
3. BB needing to hold guys accountable
4. The team needing to show more desire (not sure if this is the appropriate word) in postseason.
The Artist Formerly Known as CP2Devil.
Associate Editor at Five For Howling.
by Carl Putnam on Aug 17, 2011 10:35 AM EDT up reply actions
Yeah but this is the first time we’ve heard it so directly expressed by a teammate (or former teammate) who was a starter on the team several years. Prior to this, all we had to go on was circumstantial evidence. This is a pretty brutal indictment IMO.
And frankly, it concerns me heading into this season too. I’m not sure that Ward and Brouwer will make enough of an impact on the locker room to change things. That may have to come from the coach.
We just have to hope that GMGM’s conversations with his stars this offseason got through,
by Kolzilla on Aug 17, 2011 12:28 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
Honestly, the only difference between this and Arnott’s diatribe upon his arrival last year is that Brads is naming names. Anyone with a scintilla of a clue knew exactly who Arnott was talking about, as it was no coincidence that he suddenly attempted to befriend Semin.
Armareddon.
I think there’s another important difference here in that a tenured guy is saying it as opposed to a fresh face who might just be used to doing things a different way.
Anything new? Surprising? No, not at all. But the speaker here, IMO, has more credibility (which isn’t to say that Arnott lacked credibility).
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
I think I gave Arnott more credibility because he’s been on teams that “got it,” and clearly didn’t think the Caps “got it.”
Armareddon.
That’s fair, of course, though I don’t think there’s necessarily only one way to “get it.” But yeah, Arnott certainly has tons of cred because of the teams he’s been on. Maybe it’s not “more” cred that Brads had so much as different cred.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
My first reaction to Brads’ comments was to think of Laich saying, in essence, that he told management that one condition on him agreeing to sign his contract this offseason is that things are going to have to change. Laich was not specific about what needs to change. This gives a little more insight into what he probably had in mind.
"Fais gros comme moi!" - Alex Ovechkin
by Gould Old Days on Aug 17, 2011 5:47 PM EDT up reply actions
THN Article...
Have to say I love the photo. Alex in his road whites celebrating and a crowd of fans all in Penguins regalia watching.
Heh.
Winnipeg? Winnipeg??? Oy! (And now it's official...)
Last season, Carter’s wife met Jeff Schultz’s fiancée, and the couples have since grown to be close friends.
Jeff Schultz and Andre Carter. Now that’s two guys I never envisioned as being close friends.
___
Much more on he pair from Murph at Hail!
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by J.P. on Aug 17, 2011 9:41 AM EDT up reply actions 2 recs
Too funny. Carter looks like a man’s man and Sarge looks like a ten-year old playing dress-up.
by b.orr4 on Aug 17, 2011 9:52 AM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
If you saw them shooting that picture in person, you might disagree… no way a ten-year old is 6’7".
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?
Hail! is a good magazine. Any of you Redskins fans should sign up, its free.
Because now I can justify browsing and commenting during the work day with the argument that I am promoting my business.
by Sombrero Guy on Aug 17, 2011 10:37 AM EDT up reply actions
there’s no such thing as a Redskin fan, just addicts who haven’t sought out treatment for their terrible affliction.
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 Aug 17, 2011 10:40 AM EDT up reply actions 2 recs
Did we know that Sarge was engaged? I’m not surprised ‘cos they’ve been a couple for quite a while now, but I don’t remember hearing reading that he proposed. Mazel Tov!
You perhaps knew me better as "Your Nation's Capital." Same great commentary, now with 100% more transparency!
So I posted the All Things Avs/THN article as a FanShot and now it’s gone. Is that normal since it’s part of the Caps clips? Or did I do something wrong?
You didn’t do anything wrong at all. As we note in our Community Guidelines:
We reserve the right to delete any FanPost or FanShot for any reason, and are likely to do so in the following instances: …
A FanPost or FanShot that is the subject or part of the subject of a post that one of the site’s writers is soon to publish or has published may be deleted so as not to have redundant content on the site (it is extremely rare that a FanPost will be deleted for this reason, but a FanShot that contains a link that is going to be part of the upcoming Caps Clips post, for example, may fall prey to such a deletion).
But I just gave it a second thought and figure that it’s fine to be out there as a FanShot as well, so I unhid it.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
So did the The Hockey News
pick the Capitals to win the Stanley cup the previous two seasons? Yikes.
by _Skullduggery_ on Aug 17, 2011 10:19 AM EDT reply actions
I thought they picked Vancouver last year and Philly the year before…anyone remember?
Runners-up!!1
The definition of being a Caps fan is watching the same team over and over and expecting different results.
That’s what i heard too. I think someone said that yesterday in the Clips.
My mind is all twtisted like a peanut.
Whoops, I’m glad I asked, because it seemed like their article implied they had been fooled before — but I guess that could be referring to their prediction on where they end up in the Eastern Conference.
by _Skullduggery_ on Aug 17, 2011 10:30 AM EDT up reply actions
This makes sense:
@TarikElBashirSkatezone in Voorhees is SMALL. My only complaint is having it on a Thursday and not the weekend.
Flyers rookies to host Caps rookies at Wells Fargo Center on Sept. 15. Face off is 5 p.m., team says.
"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.
When the Caps host (in even years) it’s also on a weekday.
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 might have to have tickets to FlyersCon to be part of it, you never know.
"My favorite fan base in D.C. Is United's. Period. The end." - Steinberg
by Bald Pollack on Aug 17, 2011 10:26 AM EDT up reply actions 2 recs
Steve Kolbe
Not directly related to today’s clips…but it does seem like there’s a lack of love for Steve Kolbe just in general. John Walton seems great – don’t get me wrong – but I always liked Kolbe. He was fun to listen to. But I haven’t seen any nostalgic pieces about him, and it just seems like everyone has moved on just so quickly from him. It’s a shame and I’ve found it a little odd, and I’m sort of wondering why he was just sort of cast off the way he was.
I didn’t really have a problem with Kolbe. He wasn’t the easiest radio guy to listen to but he was fun. But I think a lot of people didn’t like his broadcasting, thus why he was kinda forced out of his job and why there aren’t a lot of peices about him.
by hockeyman33 on Aug 17, 2011 11:40 AM EDT up reply actions
I didn’t mind Kolbe at all, but from what I’ve heard of Walton, it does seem like this is an upgrade. Until we get an FM simulcast, though, they both sound like this to me in NoVA:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C_zEaYghRoY
Winterion Game Studios
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Two birthdays in one month! Way to go, Pete.
/Detail oriented and keeding.
"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 Aug 17, 2011 11:23 AM EDT reply actions
Yeah, today’s his real one. Google him and you’ll see it’s Aug. 1 in a number of places, Aug. 17 in others.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
Only a hockey player would be man enough to be born and think it was fun enough to do it again…in the same month. He’s his own irish twin.
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.
grr reply fail. @JP Pete Peeter’s b-day.
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.
Re THN: I noted that they picked Avs to finish ninth. If this proves out, what place would their #1 be? (Thinking about Varlamov trade).
"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 Aug 17, 2011 12:54 PM EDT reply actions
Well, you figure spots 16-30 go to the playoff-bound teams, so…14 or 15? Someone correct me if that doesn’t sound right.
The definition of being a Caps fan is watching the same team over and over and expecting different results.
sounds about right depending on the eastern bubble teams. Call my bad-spirited, but i’m just hoping the Avs health woes continue and they slide ride down to the basement of the standings.
I’m cool with the basement part, but I’m not gonna wish injuries on anyone. Yes, even Cooke. Well, perhaps a bruised ego or a torn contract…
Winterion Game Studios
Visit us online at : http://winterion.com
Health woes as in 15 strains of flu work their way through the Av’s, not hoping for Varly’s glass groin to blow up.
"When the going gets weird, the weird turn pro"
Tim Leone’s already joking about wondering if Varly will be with Lake Erie for a rehab assignment when they play the Bears.
Don’t try to figure Sasha out. Just ride the wave.
I just looked at the image at the top of the page again. Seeing the old guys in the current unis is fuckin’ weird. I hope at the alumni game they wear throwbacks, but I highly doubt they will.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
Would be cool if they could each dig out an old game-worn. As it is, Bondra looks like somebody’s uncle in that sweater.
"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 Aug 17, 2011 1:39 PM EDT up reply actions
talking about uniforms, is it time for a new caps uniform?
What doesnt kill you makes you stronger.
by BetterOffWith28 on Aug 17, 2011 1:56 PM EDT reply actions
no way. I love the current set. why mess with something that doesn’t need to be messed with?
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
Cripes… they changed only 4 years ago…. this isn’t the NBA!
Winnipeg? Winnipeg??? Oy! (And now it's official...)
by MikeL-Pivonka on Aug 17, 2011 2:19 PM EDT up reply actions
Jason Reid sure loves to make a total ass of himself. It’s like he just can’t help it. “I like baseball better than hockey, therefore I refuse to acknowledge that Ovechkin can be a bigger star than Strasburg.”
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
The Capitals haven’t gotten deep in the playoffs. Therefore, a starting pitcher who has played in 12 games and whose team has NEVER BEEN IN THE PLAYOFFS will be a bigger star. Q.E.D. bitches.
J.P.: You might be the king of all geeks here…
by Alz Well That Ends Well on Aug 17, 2011 2:41 PM EDT up reply actions
in an column full of idiotic shit, that was the smelliest pile of shit in the whole thing.
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
Yea, I think something like that will always be a matter of opinion. Because even if Ovechkin drags the entire capitals roster to a stanley cup this year, the argument can still be made that more people like baseball and like/relate more to Strasburg so he is the bigger “Star”. It’s a dumb argument, and not only because Ovi is on a different level than Strasburg – but because the nuts and bolts of it actually have very little to do with who the better “star” is.
Haven’t read it yet, but is this the piece that’s being advertised with “After siding with Strasburg over Ovechkin as DC’s top athlete, Jason Reid is ready to give Ovie his due”?
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
yep. And the answer is “NO”
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
The whole argument became moot the second the clock ticked down on the Redskins’ first preseason game/victory any way.
Capitals who?
Nationals who?
You perhaps knew me better as "Your Nation's Capital." Same great commentary, now with 100% more transparency!
The Nats have a beast on the team that could very well win the NL batting title this year, though I doubt many people on the street know his name. DC’s got a long way to go to being a baseball town again.
"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.
if anything, I think that the most compelling argument for OV over SS is that pitchers very rarely show up on the ESPN Top 10.
Chicks (and ESPN) dig the long ball…
"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.
and not as much as they used to. Jim Thome got shockingly little coverage for 600 :(
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
PD says Bradley “slams” BB. Funny, Brads said this:
I love Bruce and Bruce is a great coach, and he was in a very tough position there because in Washington our top guys are definitely the stars and the guys that people want to see on the ice, so I totally understand.
yeah, quite the slam.
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
TeB
Hendricks declined to respond to Bradley’s comments, but did say, “When it comes down to brass tacks, and being 100-percent committed and being 100-percent focused, I think we can improve on that a little bit.”
"My favorite fan base in D.C. Is United's. Period. The end." - Steinberg
Wysh quotes BB as saying his phone essentially blew up with text messages. Would be interesting to know from whom. Media looking for comment? Can’t imagine it was players, but who knows?
Don’t try to figure Sasha out. Just ride the wave.
probably media.
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
Sasha with a lunch invitation.
J.P.: You might be the king of all geeks here…
by Alz Well That Ends Well on Aug 17, 2011 3:33 PM EDT up reply actions
“Did you get the graph I sent over, earlier?”
by DrinkingPartner on Aug 17, 2011 3:37 PM EDT up reply actions 5 recs
Awards don't validate me!
I can easily see Alex Semin winning the Conn Smythe and throwing it on the ground.
J.P.: You might be the king of all geeks here…
by Alz Well That Ends Well on Aug 17, 2011 3:41 PM EDT up reply actions
Help me out – can someone dig up the article in which a former player anonymously said something to the effect of the team needs to do some growing up?
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
There were some comments about it last month, but it doesn’t look like there’s a link there.
J.P.: You might be the king of all geeks here…
by Alz Well That Ends Well on Aug 17, 2011 3:46 PM EDT up reply actions
Damned annoying that I know who the player is but can’t remember the author of the effin’ article…
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
But that would imply your googling would be a bit more productive than us in-the-darkers.
J.P.: You might be the king of all geeks here…
by Alz Well That Ends Well on Aug 17, 2011 3:48 PM EDT up reply actions
Nope, because the player’s not named in the article.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
Ah, so you planned to tease us by linking to the article, only for us to click and still be disappointed?
J.P.: You might be the king of all geeks here…
by Alz Well That Ends Well on Aug 17, 2011 3:50 PM EDT up reply actions
Hey, I said “anonymously” in my request above.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
This article had some good quotes after the Montreal playoff series:
Scott Walker: “We could play a little harder and compete a little bit better. That’s the most disappointing thing. I don’t think they’ve seen our ‘A’ game.”
Joe Corvo: “We just didn’t play, I guess, playoff hockey. Maybe we overlooked some of the small details as team.”
Matt Bradley: “To not be ready for a playoff game shouldn’t happen. We didn’t work hard enough.”
Then there was Brads after the Tampa series:
"I thought we played well, but I think throughout the whole series they were the hungrier team," veteran Matt Bradley said. "
Dear Joe Corvo,
and what was your excuse? Because you missed a huge detail as an individual: looking like you gave a flying fuck.
Still bitter about that trade.
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
Nevermind – found it:
as one former player said upon exiting the team, there are a lot of players who have a lot of growing up to do in that room. Ovechkin needs to grow into a leadership role if the Caps are going to shake the doubters. It sounds like he understands that; he tells ESPN.com he doesn’t care about his own game, only the success of the Capitals.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
From the same article:
Still, Semin seems to lack what several Caps observers have called “the compete gene.” People can point the finger at Ovechkin for the Caps’ playoff missteps all they want, but Semin’s inability to come through in the clutch has been a major drag.
After potting 40 regular-season goals last season, he failed to score at all in the playoffs despite his 44 shots on goal.
J.P.: You might be the king of all geeks here…
by Alz Well That Ends Well on Aug 17, 2011 3:57 PM EDT up reply actions
And followed it up being the 2nd highest goal scorer on the team in the playoffs this year. I’d agree that he has his feast or famine periods, but I don’t think regular season v. playoffs has anything to do with it regarding Semin. ALL the time…he’s either hot, or absolutely not. The 44 shots with 0 goals in a huge 1st round upset just ticked all the right boxes for the media to hound on it when in effect it was nothing new.
Everything ends badly...otherwise it wouldn't end.
by Davethecapsfan on Aug 17, 2011 4:34 PM EDT up reply actions
I’m not on the “Semin doesn’t produce” bandwagon, but I think the “lacks the compete gene” label is somewhat validated. I think he is far more talented than his production demonstrates, hence the flashes of brilliance with long periods of disappointment. Everyone goes through slumps, but the ones who have the internal motivation are more consistent over all.
J.P.: You might be the king of all geeks here…
by Alz Well That Ends Well on Aug 17, 2011 4:41 PM EDT up reply actions
I agree 100% with you there, I just think the little blip in the quote stating the Montreal series wasn’t any standout case of his streaky nature…just more of the same. The article trying to point that out as proof isn’t representing the whole issue in my mind. He’s always streaky, regular season or playoffs…and in the playoffs it seems to show itself by having good series v. bad ones.
Everything ends badly...otherwise it wouldn't end.
by Davethecapsfan on Aug 17, 2011 5:00 PM EDT up reply actions
Semin: “Hey guys, I shot 44 times! Doesn’t mean I’m not trying!”
That’s what it seemed like to me. Maybe he was content just putting up shots, to make it feel like he was at least giving an effort. The “compete gene” would be like cursing every shot that doesn’t go in.
Cue the refrain about the difference between people who love to win and people who hate to lose. I know who I’m taking every time.
J.P.: You might be the king of all geeks here…
by Alz Well That Ends Well on Aug 17, 2011 5:43 PM EDT up reply actions
Totally missing the point of what I was saying…I was pointing out that singling out the Montreal series as some sort of epiphany of him lacking the compete gene 100% of the time is silly as we have had examples before and since it. He tends to either be on for a series or off for a series, just like his play comes in spurts of brilliance an apathy during the regular season. The Montreal series was just a smaller picture of the larger example.
Everything ends badly...otherwise it wouldn't end.
by Davethecapsfan on Aug 17, 2011 8:40 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
iirc, it was suggested that the comments were made by someone who left prior to the 2010 playoff collapse, yes?
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
Per the Flyers official Twitter:
Flyers announced that NHL veteran center Michael Nylander will attend this year’s #FlyersTrainingCamp on a Pro Try-Out.
…that’s a big wow. Or HAHAHAHA, not sure which.
The definition of being a Caps fan is watching the same team over and over and expecting different results.
He did have good chemistry with 68 in NYR… years ago.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
Oh, man. I forgot Jagr was there.
The definition of being a Caps fan is watching the same team over and over and expecting different results.
Ha, I wish I could find a way to shut him out of my mind on purpose :P but no, really, I had a very “oh, that’s RIGHT..he’s in philly now!” moment. Not the first time this summer, either…so surreal.
The definition of being a Caps fan is watching the same team over and over and expecting different results.
good for him. Happy to see that an NHL team is giving him a shot after it didn’t work out here and the broken neck.
I just wish it wasn’t the Flyers, fer cryin’ out loud!
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
Feels like the Flyers are just going to go in circles with Nylander.
Everything sounds smarter in Tikkanesse....
Hey Nyls, how long you going to keep skating in circles with the puck...?
Everything ends badly...otherwise it wouldn't end.
by Davethecapsfan on Aug 17, 2011 4:36 PM EDT up reply actions
More on it from ESPN
http://espn.go.com/nhl/story/_/id/6871460/philadelphia-flyers-invite-michael-nylander-camp-tryout
I have only one thing to say about this….
hahahahahahahahahaHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!!!!!!!
Winnipeg? Winnipeg??? Oy! (And now it's official...)
by MikeL-Pivonka on Aug 17, 2011 7:15 PM EDT up reply actions
I have never been a big fan of Brads, although I do appreciate his tenure and willingness to bleed (albeit well compensated for it). Likewise, he has a right to way whatever he wants. However, I find his comments a bit unseemly and, most relevantly, unnecessary. If he was trying to help the team, it doesn’t make sense because he is a competitor now. If he was trying to criticize the team, there are ways to do it non-publicly. Regardless, it was time for him to go, and his comments underscore that point.
there’s a difference between mild-mannered criticism and airing dirty laundry. Bradley’s remarks are much more the former than the latter
Mild-mannered? I guess you haven’t seen the twitter explosion regarding his comments, the Puck Daddy reports, the Post articles, the ESPN coverage, etc., etc. He may have made his comments in a quiet voice, but when he called one of the stars of his former team a lazy dog, he knew the shit-storm that would follow. There’s nothing mild-mannered about what he said.
There’s a difference between the reaction and the comments. Give me a break.
"My favorite fan base in D.C. Is United's. Period. The end." - Steinberg
by Bald Pollack on Aug 17, 2011 4:07 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
Sorry to offend your sensibilities, but there isn’t a difference. At least not in this instance. Brads knows that ripping ex-teammates is going to make headlines and that what he was saying was going to cause a huge reaction in DC and that’s why he said it. Obviously, he’s got a grudge against Semin and this was his way of paying it back. I bet he’s got a grin on his face down in South Florida.
Actually there is a difference. And in more cases than you think of. If you honestly think that he’s being this calculating, then I don’t know what to tell you.
"My favorite fan base in D.C. Is United's. Period. The end." - Steinberg
by Bald Pollack on Aug 17, 2011 4:23 PM EDT up reply actions
For the better part of three decades, my job has been to get people in the news. What to say, how to say it, when to say it. And yeah, this was calculated. Brads has probably been wanting to say this for a while. That’s why he couldn’t shut up when the guy asked him the question. You disagree. That’s cool. But if the goal was to further destroy’s Semin’s rep, I couldn’t have coached Brads to do it any better than he did.
How did he “further destroy” a rep that’s been virtually earned and justifiable?
"My favorite fan base in D.C. Is United's. Period. The end." - Steinberg
by Bald Pollack on Aug 17, 2011 4:49 PM EDT up reply actions
I do think that a longtime teammate saying point-blank that he “just doesn’t care” further destroys Semin’s reputation because it’s a credible voice saying it without pussyfooting around. Whereas before you had innuendo and wink-wink-nudge-nudge allusions, here you have a guy saying it point blank, essentially etching it in stone.
That said, I don’t think Brads was off base in his comments, though I do think that he picked an easy target to go after – I bet my last dollar that he’d have some pretty unfavorable things to say about other guys on the team about whom he wouldn’t verbalize such things publicly.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
by J.P. on Aug 17, 2011 4:54 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
Damn, J.P.. I hope that bet comes through for you.
"Essentially, all models are wrong, but some are useful" George E.P. Box
by Knee high to a duck on Aug 17, 2011 5:04 PM EDT up reply actions
I mean, you can see it in his more veiled comments in the same interview (and the comment on AO taking care of himself). Hard not to think he’s biting his tongue somewhat everywhere other than in the Semin portion of the interview.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
Oh, I was just busting your grammatical balls.
But yes, you’re spot on.
"Essentially, all models are wrong, but some are useful" George E.P. Box
by Knee high to a duck on Aug 17, 2011 7:05 PM EDT up reply actions
JP— I’m wondering who you think specifically? He praised OV’s compete level, but with the personal care comment… but who else? Backstrom and Green? Can’t really think of any other candidates…
by Tommy Williams on Aug 17, 2011 9:43 PM EDT up reply actions
Yea, the “further destroy” is beyond the point as well. It seems the intent is what you’re arguing – and without asking Brads, there’s really no way of knowing.
All we do know is that a long time teammate of Semin came out and stated an opinion (albeit one that has been assumed for quite some time). Any player in the league who does something like that is going to be scrutinized in the media heavily. IN particular when it’s an interview with Canada’s media.
And that’s cool, but I’d doubt he woke up and thought “How can I make myself the talk of the League today?”
"My favorite fan base in D.C. Is United's. Period. The end." - Steinberg
by Bald Pollack on Aug 17, 2011 5:05 PM EDT up reply actions
And you know who deserves to be angry about Bradley executing such a perfect bit of PR spin-shifting? His current employer. Because there’s a real (though low) chance that this quote will cause the Capitals to improve, either by creating real motivation for Semin or by giving the team the freedom to finally deal with his unacceptable behavior. And no matter what happens, anything that is good for the Caps is bad for the Cats.
"Fais gros comme moi!" - Alex Ovechkin
by Gould Old Days on Aug 17, 2011 5:55 PM EDT up reply actions
I don’t see a grudge. If he had a grudge I think he’d have been more vicious, spoken sooner, and more frequently. Or maybe it was no accident he let Jizz slip out…
Obviously, this is all speculation.
by Rob Parker on Aug 17, 2011 4:25 PM EDT up reply actions 5 recs
Grudge!!!1
"My favorite fan base in D.C. Is United's. Period. The end." - Steinberg
by Bald Pollack on Aug 17, 2011 4:26 PM EDT up reply actions
Or maybe it was a calculated way to drum up interest in Caps-Panthers games in order to sell more tickets at three more home games..
/company man.
"I remembered when he said that and I kind of looked at him during the warm up and told myself that I got to shut these guys out tonight." - Michal Neuvirth, 02.06.11.
by bagace on Aug 17, 2011 4:29 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
I see what you did there.
The Artist Formerly Known as CP2Devil.
Associate Editor at Five For Howling.
There is still no clarity of intent yet, as far as I am concerned. To repeat, he had a right to say it and he is probably correct.. The previous comments worry me even more. That is, IF his intention was to rip Semin….I ask, again, WHY? Why now? Why in public? If he cares about the CAPS, then he should have picked up the phone and called Ovi and told him to kick Semin’s lazy-ass puck up and down the rink this year. If it was a ‘grudge,’ well then that just points out the fact that, well, he was a dispensable 4th liner as depressing a fact that might be to him. In any case, he doesn’t have to talk to the papers about any of this.
I think this is causing infinitely more concern to people who choose to wear a Caps jersey than it is to anyone who gets paid to wear a Caps jersey.
J.P.: You might be the king of all geeks here…
by Alz Well That Ends Well on Aug 17, 2011 5:26 PM EDT up reply actions
I see no reason to think Bradley didn’t take his sentiment about “lazy-ass”ness directly to Semin in the past
Perhaps the opposite. Every day. 5 times a day.
For all we know.
"If you want to go down in [sport] history, you have to win the [name] Cup."
-Amy Wambach
I’m beginning to think some people are basing their reactions off of the transcript excerpts and people’s comments on the them because some have read more into his interview than what is actually there. There isn’t much to get excited over when listening to the interview in its entirety. He isn’t venting or getting revenge or showing a grudge. He is answering a variety of questions thoughtfully. He names Semin as a guy with amazing talent whose efforts don’t match it. Wow! Big news! Stop the presses! He’s said something…that others have said before. Oh, my. For shame.
(Yes, I know about the avatar hounding - just pretend mine is invisible.)
The larger concern is why didn’t he step up and do it before, maybe? While he was still on the team?
Who’s to say he didn’t?
"My favorite fan base in D.C. Is United's. Period. The end." - Steinberg
by Bald Pollack on Aug 17, 2011 5:59 PM EDT up reply actions
Right. If he did everything he could do behind closed doors and decided that shit-talking his teammates publicly would do more harm than good, bully on him.
Japers' Rink: Hockey blogging from the most powerful city in the world
You’ve made another assumption. As BP says below, “Who’s to say he didn’t?”
Brads has been mentioned as one of the guys who contributed positive intangibles to the locker room. Trying to draw Semin out could have been something he tried.
(Yes, I know about the avatar hounding - just pretend mine is invisible.)
In tomorrow’s Clips tonight, Tarik writes about the Bradley interview and reaction, all pretty much what’s been said here, but he finishes with a bit of a zinger.
The question is whether any current Capitals will demand such accountability in the locker room where it matters, instead of on the radio after they’ve left town.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/sports/capitals/on-hockey-matt-bradley-is-spot-on-with-critical-comments-about-capitals-alexander-semin/2011/08/17/gIQA6sw5LJ_story.html
Don’t try to figure Sasha out. Just ride the wave.
shocking statements
I was very confident for this season. But man, some of these problems won’t disappear as fast as they should.
If McPhee sees what’s happening and has let his locker room reach this point, he should be held accountable too. That’s bad GM’ing if you can’t keep your locker room focused to reach the main objective.
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