Saturday Caps Clips: Home Sweet Home; Caps @ Leafs Game Day
by J.P. on Feb 25, 2012 8:27 AM EST
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Your savory breakfast links:
- Recaps and other assorted musings on last night's win from us, Caps365 video (Hunter, Caps players, Cunneyworth, Habs players), Vogs, Capitals Voice, NHL.com, WaPo (gamer, blog), WashTimes (gamer), CSNW (gamer, blog, blog), DCEx, SB Nation DC, Frankovic, Peerless, RMNB, DSP, KOL, OFB, RtR, Examiner, Capitals Outsider, clydeorama (pics) and Caps by Puck (pics).
- The Captain's feeling a'ight. [WashTimes]
- Mike Knuble and Roman Hamrlik represented an awful lot of healthy-scratched experience. [WashTimes]
- Previews (and such) of tonight's tilt in Toronto from Vogs and NHL.com, and be sure to check out our SB Nation partner Pension Plan Puppets for more coverage from the other side of tonight's match-up.
- Finish strong, boys - like you have in the past. [Dump 'n Chase]
- The Caps now have bulletin board material (and if they ever need more, our comment sections would do nicely). [WaPo]
- As with everything Alexander Semin, there's no easy answer to "what do we do with this guy?" [Sick, Unbelievable]
- The day in deadline musings. [CSNW, Sporting News]
- Jason Arnott and David Steckel talk about the trade that sent them in opposite directions. [G&M]
- The news of the day that turned out to maybe not be big news at all related to an injury suffered by Evgeny Kuznetsov over in Russia. [Puck Daddy, WaPo, SB Nation DC]
- Finally, happy 26th birthday to Jeff Schultz, happy 41st to Byron Dafoe and happy 61st to Andre Peloffy.
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Originally dropped this in Recap (accidentally)
Some people, pros even, won’t play Caps Hockey. They can’t handle the swings. But there are others, like Michael Neuvirth,
who consider Caps Hockey the only pure game left.
Country Gentlemen's Pig Fertilizer Gazette
Dunny-on-the-World
by Boggles on Feb 25, 2012 8:46 AM EST reply actions 2 recs
props of the Rounders reference … rec’d
Be Utterly Facinating @ http://www.thirstdc.com
by TheFuryUnleashed on Feb 25, 2012 10:06 AM EST up reply actions
Rounders reference always get a rec
Everything ends badly...otherwise it wouldn't end.
by Davethecapsfan on Feb 25, 2012 12:09 PM EST up reply actions
He trap me!
Everything ends badly...otherwise it wouldn't end.
by Davethecapsfan on Feb 25, 2012 2:51 PM EST up reply actions
That Ovi goal was a beauty, reminiscent Of the good old days
What doesnt kill you makes you stronger.
by BetterOffWith28 on Feb 25, 2012 9:34 AM EST via mobile reply actions
Was a beauty but was created by the other players….MoJo driving to the net after the drop pass and Orlov with a beautiful feed….
Yes, the passes were good, but the real skill is been able to do a fast and accurate one timer shot. Otherwise any decent goalie will Stop it.
What doesnt kill you makes you stronger.
by BetterOffWith28 on Feb 25, 2012 11:05 AM EST via mobile up reply actions
The carry into the zone and drop pass from Mojo is what created all of the space for Orlov and Ovechkin…don’t sleep on Orlov putting the pass perfectly in Ovie’s wheelhouse either. Tremendously executed 3 on 2 there.
Everything ends badly...otherwise it wouldn't end.
by Davethecapsfan on Feb 25, 2012 12:11 PM EST up reply actions
Don't dismiss Ovi finding open space and being in perfect position
Reminded me of Brett Hull.
In fact this is what Ovi should work for moving forward rather than trying to beat entire defenses himself.
by PatPeakesHeel on Feb 25, 2012 11:50 AM EST up reply actions
Which is the only real positive currently of Mojo centering him. The kid is a one man breakout or break-in when he is carrying the puck. Ovie shouldn’t have to beat the entire D and goalie himself, if he gets open for that shot of his, it’s still just as unstoppable as before.
Everything ends badly...otherwise it wouldn't end.
by Davethecapsfan on Feb 25, 2012 12:10 PM EST up reply actions
Best moment of the night was when Green slammed Borque into the goal.
It looked like Green said ’How’d you like that’ w/ a big grin as Borque was getting up.
Beautiful, and to me better than a fight.
got video of it? I was at the game, but I did notice Green seemed to stand over Bourque for perhaps a moment longer than necessary, just to drive home the point that you do not mess with Green’s bromance buddy.
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Unfortunately no. I replayed it a couple of times last night and his smirk/grin was great. My lip reading skills are low, but it sure looked like he asked him how his trip into the post went.
Alzner said he thought the team needed to have fun playing again. It certainly looked like Green had fun on that play
Happy Bday to 55. Amazing what playing a guy who is a legit 4/5 dman will do. Guy has been solid since being reinstated.
Yes, the re-education of Jeff Shultz has paid off well! How about that vicious cross-check from Sarge?
Almost like Hunter and Johnson knew what they were doing…
Everything ends badly...otherwise it wouldn't end.
by Davethecapsfan on Feb 25, 2012 12:11 PM EST up reply actions
I watch Schultz, and I smile.
Here’s a guy that didn’t sulk when he was benched over and over and over and over and over and over.
Here’s a guy who worked in practice, listened to coaches and worked on his game. Then he took advantage of his opportunities, when others fell short. Good for 55.
Nice guys finish first, but sometimes the season is awfully long.
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Don’t be so sure he wasn’t sulking. He just kept his mouth shut, for the most part.
"The Caps fan doesn't say, 'is the glass half full' or 'is the glass half empty'. He wonders when the glass is going to spill."
I don’t care if he sulked in private, but he didn’t sulk or open his mouth in public. He wins a ton of points with me on that.
Nice guys finish first, but sometimes the season is awfully long.
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I agree. However, I do remember the beat reporters asking him questions, and he basically said something like it’s out of my hands, I just want to play, if they trade me so be it.
"The Caps fan doesn't say, 'is the glass half full' or 'is the glass half empty'. He wonders when the glass is going to spill."
Nothing wrong with sulking if it pushes you to get better, and you do so. He clearly has done enough right for the coaching staff to keep giving him a jersey on game nights
Everything ends badly...otherwise it wouldn't end.
by Davethecapsfan on Feb 25, 2012 12:54 PM EST up reply actions
Looks like it’s worked for him.
"The Caps fan doesn't say, 'is the glass half full' or 'is the glass half empty'. He wonders when the glass is going to spill."
With minimal digging, this is what I found on Schultz. I know WaPo had a longer quote. But, at the end of the day I think Schultz’s comments are fair (especially when it looked like he might be the permanent healthy scratch).
Schultz said he has not asked the Capitals for a trade but wants to play somewhere and is leaving those discussions to his agent.
"I have a lot of great friends here," he said. "I don’t want to be put in a situation where (a trade) comes up, but I want to play. That’s kind of the bottom line."
http://www.csnwashington.com/blog/capitals-talk/post/Schultz-discouraged-by-benching?blockID=629050
by CapsDegenerate on Feb 25, 2012 1:27 PM EST up reply actions
I tried to block off the part from the article, but only the first paragraph is my writing…….
by CapsDegenerate on Feb 25, 2012 1:28 PM EST up reply actions
I should be clear: I do not think he was bad enough to have been benched in the first place. The guy is and never will be the fleetest of foot. The guy is and never will be the overly physical dman that many a mouth breather (I sit next to two of the knuckheads who woop him) wish him to be. He makes up for a lot with his reach and his positioning.
But would he not be a better defenseman if he picked up some physicality to go along with said reach and positioning?
by Murshawursha on Feb 25, 2012 12:54 PM EST up reply actions
Probably, but at the same time, per ralCapsFan let’s not berate him excessively for what he is not, and be glad for what he is.
You're right; I don't know what I am talking about.
But if, by benching him, they had time to work with him and develop that aspect of his game (and he does seem to have a bit more of a mean-streak lately), doesn’t that mean scratching him was a good move in the long run?
by Murshawursha on Feb 25, 2012 1:30 PM EST up reply actions
No problem with the reasoning. It seems to have worked. I guess I feel kind of sorry for the guy because he has been so whip-sawed over the past couple of years. But, all in all, yes, he is probably a better d-man for it. Let’s hope GMGM and Dale keeps him around. As was said earlier, he is a solid – and young – 4/5 d-man.
You're right; I don't know what I am talking about.
I think we should also give some credit to Jim Johnson. It takes a certain personality to tell a kid he’s not good enough, convince him to work with you, train him, and then give him a shot.
Nice guys finish first, but sometimes the season is awfully long.
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Not only that, but as soon as he came on he seemed to be looking at Schultz and thinking about how he could improve his game. There’s obviously something there they DO like.
Everything ends badly...otherwise it wouldn't end.
by Davethecapsfan on Feb 25, 2012 2:52 PM EST up reply actions
It’s just words but in one of his many interviews Johnson said that they had watched the games from his great season two years ago and wanted to get Schultz back to that standard, as well as have him find more physicality.
Made me so happy to see him paired with Greenie last night
Ovechkin on how he can help the team: "Score MOAR goals."
by capsyoungguns on Feb 25, 2012 3:22 PM EST up reply actions
Hard to imagine 22 and 44 aren’t on their way out at this point. Wonder if something happens today or do we wait til tomorrow.
by mechanicsville on Feb 25, 2012 10:11 AM EST via mobile reply actions
Myself Being about the same age as 22, this makes me feel old and relegated…. Thats The circle of life
What doesnt kill you makes you stronger.
by BetterOffWith28 on Feb 25, 2012 11:07 AM EST via mobile up reply actions
It hasn’t been a good year for any Cap whose uniform number is a multiple of 11. 11 not heaven this year. (Not great for 22 or 44 at the moment. And 55 was struggling and on the bench as well).
But at least Schultz seems to be back in the lineup. But agree that I would not be surprised if Knubs and Hamrlik are gone soon.
Rocking the Red for teams on the banks of the Potomac and at the Gateway Arch and Singing the Blues about Hockey.
I had heard a rumor that the Blues were interested in Hamrlik. If that’s true who should the Caps ask for in return?
BACKES!
Though the Caps would likely get draft picks. I don’t think the Blues would want to break up a team working so well.
Proud member of the Popsicle Division of the Cupcake Conference.
I’ve got the roster up. Hard to see who the Blues would give up, knowing that Langenbrunner, Steen and D’Agostini are all out. With Russell now out, however, that could make Hamr a more intriguing pick-up.
Picks aside – maybe Chris Stewart? Maybe you package with Hamr to pry away more? Hamr and Eakin for Berglund. Hamr and Eakin for McDonald. Not sure.
(RB North – down boy.)
Nice guys finish first, but sometimes the season is awfully long.
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It would be a 2d rounder or a prospect. I doubt St Louis is going to give up a roster player when they’re humming along like they are.
They especially wouldn’t give up David Backes, especially when he’s their captain as well.
Rocking the Red for teams on the banks of the Potomac and at the Gateway Arch and Singing the Blues about Hockey.
God knows teams don’t trade captains mid-season. Right Chris Clark?
But no they wouldn’t trade Backes, captaincy issue aside.
by Rather Bengt on Feb 25, 2012 1:08 PM EST up reply actions
hah, well yeah, backes was never in question. but berglund and macdonald aren’t either. stewart might have been, but he’s starting to play better and would cost a lot more than the corpse of roman hamrlik even if he werent.
Berglund is always in question.
In my mind.
by Rather Bengt on Feb 25, 2012 1:12 PM EST up reply actions
I was just poking fun at myself Ginga. I have the reputation around here for being a Berglund fan-boy.
by Rather Bengt on Feb 25, 2012 1:58 PM EST up reply actions
Yes. When you look up “man-crush” at dictionary.com, there is a picture of RB and Berglund.
Nice guys finish first, but sometimes the season is awfully long.
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I would be pleasantly surprised if they got as much as a 3rd round pick for him.
Seriously, who wants him that much and he’s not UFA pending…
It isn’t even anger-inducing. It does not seem to be worth that kind of emotional investment. It might not even be disappointing any more. It is expected.
-Peerless 5.6.2011
I would fuckin love McDonald. But he’s not moving either, not with the playoff push. Stewart maybe, but do the Caps really need another Winger?
Proud member of the Popsicle Division of the Cupcake Conference.
Just get that money off the books! Take a pick and a bag of pucks for crying out loud. Hamr isn’t going to get much return.
The key is to make sure we have that cap space next year………
by CapsDegenerate on Feb 25, 2012 1:18 PM EST up reply actions
Wonder how McDonald and Ovie would get along in the same dressing room after Andy’s comments earlier this year.
by Rather Bengt on Feb 25, 2012 2:00 PM EST up reply actions
classless move by @ovi8 “opting” out of NHL Allstar Game
I’m sure Ovi would get over it. McDonald was talking about off ice activities, and would be a legit 2C. Any player who cares about winning would deal.
Proud member of the Popsicle Division of the Cupcake Conference.
I have always liked Andy McDonald but at 35 and due 4.7 next year, it would come off a bit too patchwork to me. I would rather go the Stastny route for more years.
by Rather Bengt on Feb 25, 2012 2:11 PM EST up reply actions
Agreed. 100%.
Nice guys finish first, but sometimes the season is awfully long.
Follow me on Twitter.
I agree, but McDonald in his last healthy season hit 70 points. He’s the real deal. I think Stastny’s biggest advantage is age (but is it worth $2 million in cap hit?).
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by red army line on Feb 25, 2012 2:14 PM EST up reply actions
While we’re speculating, the age difference might reduce the price. Still find it doubtful that the Blues trade him with Langenbrunner out.
Nice guys finish first, but sometimes the season is awfully long.
Follow me on Twitter.
I think the last healthy season is what gets to me also. He’s had concussion issues and having a 1C and 2C with concussion issues isn’t too comforting.
by Rather Bengt on Feb 25, 2012 2:16 PM EST up reply actions
Ovie seems to have made his peace with Chimera after that whole “here, let me yank your shoulder out of socket” incident.
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Afternoon RB America.
OT Hockey thread up and running.
Nice guys finish first, but sometimes the season is awfully long.
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I will be right over!
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I told you guys it was worth it to try Aucoin as a 1 or 2C. He’s a playmaker, and his skillset doesn’t help the team on the 4th line. Obviously he’s not a long term solution, but this team needs some duct tape and glue at center until the trade deadline.
You’re not the only person who’s felt that way. I recall a game 3 years ago (yes, that long ago) where he seemed to have good chemistry with Semin. By the end of it, he was on the PP unit.
Rocking the Red for teams on the banks of the Potomac and at the Gateway Arch and Singing the Blues about Hockey.
So what do you do with a guy like Alexander Semin? I’ve been asking myself that same question for the last 27 years!!
Rocking the Red for teams on the banks of the Potomac and at the Gateway Arch and Singing the Blues about Hockey.
Are you two somehow related?
Cross check and all call.
by bigonetimer on Feb 25, 2012 11:15 AM EST up reply actions
No, just happen to have a kid just like him!
(Hope I made you laugh, at least.)
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 Feb 25, 2012 11:20 AM EST up reply actions 1 recs
Quietly and without much notice Semin has seemed to turn into a point a game player with Hunter. In the last two months he’s played 23 games and had 20 points. In February he’s played 12 games and had 12 points and 6 penalty minutes.
I remember GMGM saying that the last really introverted player they had before Semin was Hunter.
http://sports.yahoo.com/nhl/players/3261/splits;ylt=AhoIp119aKJo2eT1eWZeb1ivLYF
I keep thinking that Hunter and Boudreau are exact opposites in Brain Type. When the Caps figured it was time to get rid of Boudreau, they wanted what was missing so went for the opposite.
Hunter is probably ISTP. A type famous for intensity and “killing their grandmother to win” as evidenced by when he hurt Turgeon and earned his long suspension.
Boudreau is probably ENFJ.
The Brain Type website has figured that Ovi is ENTP. I’m guessing Sasha to be either INTJ or INTP. (Sasha is definitely introverted. More of a thinker than feeler.)
Rocking the Red for teams on the banks of the Potomac and at the Gateway Arch and Singing the Blues about Hockey.
In an ideal world, you would re-sign Semin for half the price. I don’t want to see him go, but he is not worth $6.7 million in my opinion……..
by CapsDegenerate on Feb 25, 2012 1:19 PM EST up reply actions
We’re analyzing the Caps’ coaches with Myers-Briggs now? Cool.
I think your speculation is spot on. Hunter’s I and T are probably off the charts.
Nice guys finish first, but sometimes the season is awfully long.
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Most of this year, blogger “Sick Unbelievable” had been running a series of stories on Hamrlik, starting with the one where he was an agent of the “opposition”. I’m surprised I haven’t seen an new installment of that series, given the recent events. Although “Sick, Unbelievable” has had plenty of entries, as of late.
Rocking the Red for teams on the banks of the Potomac and at the Gateway Arch and Singing the Blues about Hockey.
Don’t you worry. It’s in the works. Am actually waiting until the trade deadline, which I surmise could add some spice to my little story.
by Sick, Unbelievable on Feb 25, 2012 1:21 PM EST up reply actions
I’m with Clyde (love his photos)—the new pads seem to work wonders for Neuvy’s game. Channelling my inner Tim Gunn, I thought the old ones were too matchy-matchy. The matchy-matchy stole his mojo.
The team still has fault lines, but I saw some good things in last night’s win. Sweet, sweet drop pass to Orlov who fed it it beautifully to Ovi for his goal. Definite highpoint of the game. I was baffled by the lack of a penalty on the sliding tackle of Mackan in the first. At this point with the team I don’t know whether to drink the water or to fill it up again. I’m no longer optimistic or pessimistic, but instead have a “we shall see” attitude.
Ovechkin on how he can help the team: "Score MOAR goals."
I always preferred white pads on goalies. Dark pads make it too easy for shooters to see the holes.
Of course with NHL caliber players this probably doesn’t make a difference.
by PatPeakesHeel on Feb 25, 2012 11:54 AM EST up reply actions
You’re right about the shooters seeing the holes, actually. Here is an article about this.
Look at me, Dustin! I'm a F%^king Icon!
Fascinating. Thanks. And here I just thought white looked better.
Ovechkin on how he can help the team: "Score MOAR goals."
by capsyoungguns on Feb 25, 2012 2:07 PM EST up reply actions
That’s not a penalty ever. Defender went down to block the shot, Mojo tried to drag around him and failed.
Look at me, Dustin! I'm a F%^king Icon!
That’s the problem with being at the game. I can’t rewind and rewatch. Looked like a sliding tackle to me.
Ovechkin on how he can help the team: "Score MOAR goals."
by capsyoungguns on Feb 25, 2012 2:06 PM EST up reply actions
Tony Ambrogio of SportsNet already tweeting that 4, 44, and 22 are out tonight.
Nice guys finish first, but sometimes the season is awfully long.
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Craig Custance (not a Capitals’ lover by any measure) in ESPN Insider this morning:
This season has been a disaster for the Capitals and yet they’re right in the playoff mix thanks to a Southeast division that seems incapable of providing a front-runner. Washington’s win over the Montreal Canadiens on Friday night kept pace with the first-place Winnipeg Jets, with the Capitals just two points out despite playing two fewer games than the Jets. The safe bet before Monday is that GM George McPhee moves disgruntled defenseman Roman Hamrlik and little else. The better move might be to shake things up, even if it means being a seller.
This team desperately needs a change. For one, it’s hard to imagine the Capitals being overly competitive without Nicklas Backstrom, who is out indefinitely with a concussion. There’s not a trade deadline addition that can ease Backstrom’s absence.
The dressing room is fractured and first-year coach Dale Hunter doesn’t appear to be getting a complete buy-in from his team. Something needs to give.
McPhee should seriously consider moving Alexander Semin. He’s all but certain to leave as an unrestricted free agent, especially if Hunter returns as coach. I can certainly understand McPhee’s hesitation in trading one of the few goal-scorers on a team that has trouble scoring goals, but at some point a shake-up would do this team good. The problem is that the return wouldn’t likely be anything that would help the Capitals right now.
“That’s the trouble,” said one NHL source. “[McPhee] is not going to get a first-round pick. More like a prospect and second-round pick. The problem is that they’re fighting for their life.”
By adding Jeff Carter, Dean Lombardi has removed the target off his back as the general manager under the most pressure to make the right decision. McPhee might be up next.
Nice guys finish first, but sometimes the season is awfully long.
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Allow me to dissect first.
The better move might be to shake things up, even if it means being a seller.
Agreed.
For one, it’s hard to imagine the Capitals being overly competitive without Nicklas Backstrom, who is out indefinitely with a concussion. There’s not a trade deadline addition that can ease Backstrom’s absence
And, therein lies the problem.
The dressing room is fractured and first-year coach Dale Hunter doesn’t appear to be getting a complete buy-in from his team.
How the fuckity-fuck does he know? I hate these type of comments. Of course, players are talking to him, right?
McPhee should seriously consider moving Alexander Semin. He’s all but certain to leave as an unrestricted free agent, especially if Hunter returns as coach.
Is it just me, or has Semin actually played better and taken less penalties since Hunter came on board? He actually shouldered a guy in the corner last night to get the puck. I think 28 might leave, but I don’t draw the correlation to DH32 returning.
By adding Jeff Carter, Dean Lombardi has removed the target off his back as the general manager under the most pressure to make the right decision. McPhee might be up next.
Could very well be true. He certainly GM’s the team that has fallen most short of expectations.
Nice guys finish first, but sometimes the season is awfully long.
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Hard to see the Avs trading him, but I hope McPhee tries.
Hard to not overpay for Stastny. Does Eakin and the Avs 1st back to them get it done?
That would make the trade Varlamov and Eakin, for Stastny and 2nd round pick. Not bad from either side.
Nice guys finish first, but sometimes the season is awfully long.
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Some things might be worth a little over-payment.
"By far the worst performers on the (R*dskins) are in the front office." – Sally Jenkins
I’d probably be okay with giving them back both their picks plus Eakin. Then, it’s basically Varly and Eakin for Stats, and I think I’d be okay with that.
by Murshawursha on Feb 25, 2012 12:42 PM EST up reply actions
Craig Custance (not a Capitals’ lover by any measure)
Any proof to this claim?
"Shots aren't the important thing. Scoring chances are way more important than shots." - Bruce Boudreau
See my work in the Washington Post and on ESPN Insider.
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I have not read any article by him that has been positive on the Capitals.
Are you getting paid to defend him this morning, counselor? :-)
Nice guys finish first, but sometimes the season is awfully long.
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I have not read any article by him that has been positive on the Capitals.
People say the same about me, but that too is selective and untrue.
Are you getting paid to defend him this morning, counselor? :-)
I know him a little better than you do and don’t think he is being portrayed fairly.
"Shots aren't the important thing. Scoring chances are way more important than shots." - Bruce Boudreau
See my work in the Washington Post and on ESPN Insider.
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You know Custance, and I don’t. Thus, you are able to see in his comments more validity than I do. Perhaps you also have some insight into the Caps’ locker room than I do not. Fair enough.
I agree with about half of what Custance writes. I will root for the Caps tonight, but I fear that Caps win tonight and make dumb trades that don’t benefit the team in the long run.
The comments about the locker room seem to me to be a lobbed-in bomb from afar. I remember when Tarik made some comments about the locker room last summer, the information was questioned, even coming from him, because he couldn’t/wouldn’t divulge sources. Custance’s comments about Hunter ring hollow with me, because he offers nothing to support and isn’t a beat writer than hangs with the team daily. I’d respect Whyno or Katie or many others much more if they said that.
And, BTW – I know you love the Capitals, regardless of your #fancystats.
Nice guys finish first, but sometimes the season is awfully long.
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People say the same thing about me…
You are selling yourself short. We know you love the Caps. Tough love maybe. And honest. But definitely on the side of the angels.
I don’t recall reading much from Constance that has been positive about the Caps, even during their brief few seasons of glory. Perhaps what you mean is that you think he’s being objective in his criticism. I don’t follow his work closely enough to know if he’s an equal opportunity critic of teams—that in other words this is style of commentary.
Ovechkin on how he can help the team: "Score MOAR goals."
by capsyoungguns on Feb 25, 2012 2:16 PM EST up reply actions
I suspect he’s talking about the cled commenters over at the WaPo?
Patron saint of quality footwear.
Heh. True dat. But he was using that as a point of comparison, and I’m not ready to consider myself or others around here who are skeptical of Constance as the same as some of those CI nutcases who react badly to Neil because he’s a stats guru who pulls no punches.
Ovechkin on how he can help the team: "Score MOAR goals."
by capsyoungguns on Feb 25, 2012 3:15 PM EST up reply actions
So, are you saying he IS a Caps fan?
I guess all journos have their rooting interests, but aren’t they technically supposed to be “objective”?
Patron saint of quality footwear.
So, are you saying he IS a Caps fan?
No, I said there is no evidence for him to be characterized as “not a Capitals’ lover.”
"Shots aren't the important thing. Scoring chances are way more important than shots." - Bruce Boudreau
See my work in the Washington Post and on ESPN Insider.
Follow me on Twitter @ngreenberg
Thanks for qualifying the writer as “not a Capitals’ lover”.
Frankly, now when I read all the hockey analysts, I am skeptical.
The more I have been reading this blog, and the links it recommends, the more educated I have become, as a hockey fan, and as a Caps fan.
Now, when I hear sports talk, whether it be on radio, or TV, or on the web, I can more easily pick up on the fact that most of the pundits absolutely do not know what they are talking about when it comes to the Capitals.
Are there particular NHL analysts whose names I should look for to provide sharp insight into our team?
I think you pick different things from different writers. I don’t think Custance likes the Caps, but I still read him.
I think if you mention most names here, you’ll get varying opinions. Bob McKenzie seems to be the most respected guy out there.
Nice guys finish first, but sometimes the season is awfully long.
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[McPhee] is not going to get a first-round pick. More like a prospect and second-round pick.
I doubt this. I still don’t think he moves Semin, but disagree about the return being so low.
Hemsky being signed seems to shrink the market for legit top 6 players. I’d like to think we could get a 1st for Semin if he was moved.
Everything ends badly...otherwise it wouldn't end.
by Davethecapsfan on Feb 25, 2012 12:56 PM EST up reply actions
If the Caps can’t get a first for Semin, they’re not even getting forty cents on the dollar. Better off to keep him, in that case, though I do think there are teams that would give a first and more.
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by red army line on Feb 25, 2012 1:24 PM EST via Android app up reply actions
There are some players who GMGM should trade unless the return is ridiculously low. Both Vokoun and Wideman are on that list. We have good replacements for both and neither will be here next season.
Semin, OTOH, should only be traded if we can get something of value back. If we can’t get a 1st or a top C prospect back, then he shouldn’t be moved. He’s been arguably the best player over the past month.
Jackets put Grant Clitsome on waivers. I’m intrigued.
$1.25M annual salary through next season, when he’s a UFA. Hit is thus minimal this year.
He’s 26. 4-10 in 51 games. Only -6 for the Jackets, who have a -61 goal differential. Tyutin is -25 and Wisniewski is -19. Averaging 17:01 minutes per game.
Might be worth a claim at that salary.
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Would be a boon for jersey sales, too.
That'll make your weagle wink!
"You're the boss, apple sauce" - @GreenLife52
On a team like CBJ, this is the guy you put on waivers? Grinder type, no? Don’t thnk we have a need for that.
"The Caps fan doesn't say, 'is the glass half full' or 'is the glass half empty'. He wonders when the glass is going to spill."
He’s a defenseman. Steady guy, and apparently a good guy to have around as well.
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Oof, shows what I know.
Do we really need another D? Most of the ones we have are already under contract for next year.
"The Caps fan doesn't say, 'is the glass half full' or 'is the glass half empty'. He wonders when the glass is going to spill."
Most of the ones we have are already under contract for next year.
You have six under contract right now for next year: 3, 44, 55, 27, 81, 4. 6 is UFA. 52 and 74 are RFA. 3 is a non-factor, and 44 could be gone by Monday night, who knows.
At $1.25M, Clitsome would be the lowest paid D after Orlov and could be a steady 5/6 type of guy.
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Having Clitsome on the Caps and knowing how Perreault can score with his tongue could mean more pleasure from this team than we have seen so far this season. Buy.
by Rather Bengt on Feb 25, 2012 12:43 PM EST up reply actions
I was of course assuming 52 and 74 are under contract. Neither one is likely going anywhere. So even if 44 goes, it’s still six NHL level D under contract. So in that case, maybe.
"The Caps fan doesn't say, 'is the glass half full' or 'is the glass half empty'. He wonders when the glass is going to spill."
Have you seen Clitsome play much? Little I’ve seen him play, I haven’t seen anything to suggest the Caps should claim him, even more so when you added in that he’s signed for next year, but even just for this year.
He’s no Tyutin.
I would rather we had signed Hjeda last year when he was available.
by Rather Bengt on Feb 25, 2012 1:14 PM EST up reply actions
Wow. Howson has completely botched it. All he had to do was get a goalie, but instead he’s rebuilding his team by trading for the worst regular NHL D and putting on waivers a superior ES D, getting rid of a 1C and borderline 3C in the process
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by red army line on Feb 25, 2012 1:31 PM EST via Android app up reply actions
He’s on the super long term rebuild strategy. Devious really. Spend to the cap, so the fans think you’re trying and don’t leave, but get terrible players so you can get a decade of #1 picks. Genius!
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The Edmonton model.
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I believe in next year.
by red army line on Feb 25, 2012 2:15 PM EST up reply actions
I think EDM will have a really good team in a few years if they can keep their core and attain some D-men.
by Rather Bengt on Feb 25, 2012 2:18 PM EST up reply actions
Do they need a legitimate 2C? I know an other team that, once upon a time, needed to keep their core and get a stay-at-home D.
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Of course they do. But with RNH, Eberle, Hall, even Gagner no older than 23 (still blows my mind RNH is 18) that window will be open for a while.
by Rather Bengt on Feb 25, 2012 2:23 PM EST up reply actions
I think Edmonton could be competitive next year, but yeah, I don’t think their management is good enough to make the right moves on the blueline. If they wait too long, RNH-Hall-Eberle-Paajarvi and whoever they draft this year will eat up too much of their cap for them to get quality D.
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I believe in next year.
by red army line on Feb 25, 2012 2:26 PM EST up reply actions
well played.
(and if they ever need more, our comment sections would do nicely).
"By far the worst performers on the (R*dskins) are in the front office." – Sally Jenkins
For a team who goes into so many shootouts, he could be a nice pickup.
Beyond that, well nice salary buddy
by Rather Bengt on Feb 25, 2012 12:48 PM EST up reply actions
A bit “meh” about that pick-up. He’s a pro-rated $3.8M and an RFA next year.
Only played 9 games for the Rangers this year, 0G, 3A.
2009-2010 he put up 23 and 42 in 80 games for Phoenix. Hasn’t come close to that since.
(2012-related side note – I tried to get into his wikipedia page to see why he’s only played 9 games this year. It took three clicks to get the site up. Must have been mid-update, as his page now says “Florida Panthers.”)
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I am “meh” about him also. For awhile there, one of his few redeeming qualities is he was a shootout specialist. He and Torts didn’t see eye to eye on things, which is no surprise considering the way Wolski plays (think Seminesque). But hey Florida went for Flash, they can go for Wolski.
(That salary is one of the most ridiculous in the league)
by Rather Bengt on Feb 25, 2012 12:59 PM EST up reply actions
Got him for a 3rd round pick and a minor leaguer.
Yep – same price as the Caps’ paid the Panthers for Wideman last year. I think we did better.
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Darren Dreger:
Wolski very good in shootouts which is partly why Panthers wanted him.
They do know that there are no shootouts in the playoffs, right?
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But right now, FLA is just trying to make the playoffs and there are still shootouts. Which is why that was my first thought too on why they got Wolski (and no I didn’t read Dreger before I said that)
by Rather Bengt on Feb 25, 2012 1:04 PM EST up reply actions
Which just shows how silly the shootout is really if a guy can be considered for a sweater with the main reason being just in case a game goes to a shootout
Everything ends badly...otherwise it wouldn't end.
by Davethecapsfan on Feb 25, 2012 1:11 PM EST up reply actions
You have a good point. The other day I was watching the MIN-FLA game and they had Erik Christensen as the Wild’s 1st shooter. The broadcast team said that Christensen is 3rd all-time in shootout goals, which as you said is a small reason he still gets a sweater with teams.
by Rather Bengt on Feb 25, 2012 1:16 PM EST up reply actions
And that move by Christensen was as good as I’ve seen. Theo was in the luxury boxes after the deke.
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And that’s the thing…what if having that guy in the lineup nets you an extra couple of points during the year? That could very well be the difference between playoffs and not.
Everything ends badly...otherwise it wouldn't end.
by Davethecapsfan on Feb 25, 2012 2:54 PM EST up reply actions
Besides Clitsome, other waiver wire happenings
CBJ claims Darryl Boyce from TOR.
CBJ puts the aforementioned Clitsome as well as Ryan Russell on waivers. NJD puts Boulton on waivers. MIN put Staubitz on re-entry waivers. CGY putsKris Kolanos on waivers. NYI puts Brian Rolston on waivers
from Bob McK
Some of the trades and waiver moves definitely look like freeing up cap space or roster spots. Wolski didn’t fit in with NYR and it also opens up cap space for the NYR.
Note, players had to be placed on waivers or re-entry waivers today in order to clear and be able to be assigned to the minors or called up and placed on a roster before the trade deadline on Monday.
Presumably, the Capitals don’t need to do that, because they can always send down 23 or put 19 on LTIR.
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Yes, I was just noting why the activity today. If placed on waivers on Saturday or Sunday, it’s 48 hours, so has to be today to get through the process by noon on Monday. I was wondering if they might put King on re-entry, but wasn’t expecting it.
Also, some players who clear waivers won’t be assigned, but teams want as much flexibility as possible. As you note, one option for the Caps is that Aucoin can be sent down without waivers at this time.
Bob McK on some Nucks' maneuverings (and a clever pun as well)
VAN put Keith Ballard on LTIR, Creates $4.2M worth of cap space. May be setting up for deal. Maybe I Ott to look into that.
His tweet related to this:
VAN freeing up cap space akin to OPEN FOR BIZ sign going up. Ott? Brown, if available? ;-) Even Nash if they so choose? Many possibilities
by Rather Bengt on Feb 25, 2012 1:57 PM EST up reply actions
Just flipped to NHLN to see if there was hockey. Of course it’s a Pens game. Just got two quick goals on Roloson. One of which is looks like he had broken his stick just prior to. I hate seeing the Pens roll over someone, but then again, don’t want Tampa getting too close.
"The Caps fan doesn't say, 'is the glass half full' or 'is the glass half empty'. He wonders when the glass is going to spill."
Biding my time until CBC has STL-WPG on at 2 pm here.
by Rather Bengt on Feb 25, 2012 1:35 PM EST up reply actions
I turned it on, saw the 3-0 score and then heard Bob Errey. CLICK.
Also waiting of the top of the hour to root for the Blues. At least there I get Kelly and Panger.
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I left the room at 2-0. Fortunately I can’t watch and work at the same time.
Just came back into the room, they’re showing top goals of the week. Just once, can’t the Caps NOT be on the wrong end of these?
"The Caps fan doesn't say, 'is the glass half full' or 'is the glass half empty'. He wonders when the glass is going to spill."
I’m about to switch from desktop to laptop to watch and work simultaneously.
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The Caps are on NHLN 2x this weekend.
by CapsDegenerate on Feb 25, 2012 5:50 PM EST up reply actions
Last I heard Sather was nixing McDonagh and Erixon….has that changed?
by Rather Bengt on Feb 25, 2012 1:53 PM EST up reply actions
The rumors are flying. I read that Howson wanted Stepan, but Sather said no.
How the heck do they know this stuff?
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Did you read the bit at On the Forecheck about how to become an E.K.L.U.N.D.?
That was a riot.
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Damn. Just beat me to it.
Nice guys finish first, but sometimes the season is awfully long.
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Blues and Jets in 8 minutes. GO BLUES!!!
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I am so conflicted about what GMGM should do with Semin. Although he drives you crazy, what a delight he is to watch when he is on his game! Interestingly, though, the one issue I have not heard discussed is whether Sasha WANTS to remain a Cap? Does anyone know that answer? If he does, then I suppose GMGM should try to get him on a Hemsky-like contract for a couple years at $10M, say, asap. If not, then try to get the best value for him before Monday. I would prefer a productive top 6 player as opposed to a high pick. But what does Sasha want?
You're right; I don't know what I am talking about.
I think the general assumption is that Semin wants something similar to what he’s getting now. That’s probably too much for the Capitals to afford, especially if they’re going after a 2C or if the RFAs want much more than they’re getting right now.
Semin would probably get around that much, or a little less plus term, as a UFA. I’d sign him to a Hemsky deal, but I wouldn’t go higher, and definitely without a NTC.
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by red army line on Feb 25, 2012 2:50 PM EST up reply actions
While I like Sasha, I doubt the Caps (or any other team) will offer him anything similar to his current salary. I’m of the opinion that James Neal signing for the Pens is going to depress salaries for wingers this summer. A GM could now argue “why should we pay you more since you can’t out-produce Neal”.
Rocking the Red for teams on the banks of the Potomac and at the Gateway Arch and Singing the Blues about Hockey.
Also according to HNIC, Neuvy to start for Caps. Hamr and Knubs are healthy scratches.
by Rather Bengt on Feb 25, 2012 3:53 PM EST up reply actions
And why is it our beat reporters are silent?
"The Caps fan doesn't say, 'is the glass half full' or 'is the glass half empty'. He wonders when the glass is going to spill."
I’m surprised there was no report on Capitals Insider about today’s morning skate and I had checked just after 3:00 pm
Rocking the Red for teams on the banks of the Potomac and at the Gateway Arch and Singing the Blues about Hockey.
The beat writers would have been traveling to Toronto this morning. Was there a skate today? If there was, I’m guessing it was optional with limited attendance.
Word I saw was extremely optional.
My point is that if Hunter had actually said anything about his scratches and starting goalie, Vogel would have at least tweeted it. He travels with the team, as opposed to the beat reporters.
"The Caps fan doesn't say, 'is the glass half full' or 'is the glass half empty'. He wonders when the glass is going to spill."
Did Ovi go to the extremely optional skate? This is important stuff! LEADERSHIP
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Walton now tweeting that 4, 22, and 44 out.
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Should we ask him who’s in goal?
"The Caps fan doesn't say, 'is the glass half full' or 'is the glass half empty'. He wonders when the glass is going to spill."
I don’t have his mobile number.
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On twitter, silly.
"The Caps fan doesn't say, 'is the glass half full' or 'is the glass half empty'. He wonders when the glass is going to spill."
Walton says “game time decision”. Of course.
"The Caps fan doesn't say, 'is the glass half full' or 'is the glass half empty'. He wonders when the glass is going to spill."
Now he’s tweeting Neuvy in.
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From the OT thread – Blues win in a SO vs. Jets.
Jets now three points ahead of the Caps, but Caps have three games-in-hand.
Caps in 8th tomorrow morning with a win, and a Panthers regulation loss to Canes.
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Oddly enough, many Blues fans would like to acquire Hamrlik. (I always perceived the Blues as needing more offense rather than an ageing defenseman.)
Rocking the Red for teams on the banks of the Potomac and at the Gateway Arch and Singing the Blues about Hockey.
As alluded to previously, after the Nashville game Blues D Kris Russell was sent home with concussion symptoms. They have a hole on their blue line that could use filling at the moment.
by Rather Bengt on Feb 25, 2012 5:44 PM EST up reply actions
Can they afford him….one more year plus this year?
You're right; I don't know what I am talking about.
Sure they can. Just trade Berglund to the Caps ;).
by Rather Bengt on Feb 25, 2012 5:52 PM EST up reply actions
St. Louis is rolling in cap room.
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by red army line on Feb 25, 2012 5:54 PM EST up reply actions
(and Arnott, Langenbrunner, Jackman, and Colaiacovo, all of whom make over $2 million against the cap, are UFA after this year)
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by red army line on Feb 25, 2012 5:55 PM EST up reply actions
Rolling in cap room, but have no owner to give money out.
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![Via Traktor Chelyabinsk's website, here's Evgeny Kuznetsov graciously accepting a handmade hat from some of his fans.
The Traktor fans were aware of the NA tradition of the hat trick,and in honor of his strong performance at World Juniors, they made him one of his very own:
"It is known that the ocean [overseas leagues - ed.] has a tradition: after the execution of a hat-trick fans throw on the ice caps. Hat-trick in a literal translation - "hat trick". Kuznetsov played in the World Cup just two such trick: in the group stage, he scored 3 goals in the gate the Latvian team, and in the semi-finals three times, struck the gate of Canada. These two points are noted."
More awesome pix at the link.](http://cdn3.sbnation.com/fan_shot_images/235874/kuzya20130112_small.jpg)
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