View Full Version : NHL Playoffs 2010
I figured there should be a separate thread for this because, despite mainstream misconception among non-hockey fans, Ovie vs. Crosby doesn't cover the whole thing. The best postseason in professional sports is back tonight people! Aside from the obvious Caps/Habs series, I'll really be looking forward to the Western Conference matchups. I could see ANY of those 4 series being an upset and I think it'll be fantastic.
Here's my first round predictions, which will probably change drastically by next week:
1) Capitals over 8) Canadiens in SIX
2) Devils over 7) Flyers in SEVEN
6) Bruins over 3) Sabres in SEVEN
4) Penguins over 5) Senators in SIX
1) Sharks over 8) Avalanche in SIX
2) Blackhawks over 7) Predators in SEVEN
6) Kings over 3) Canucks in SEVEN
5) Red Wings over 4) Coyotes in SEVEN
As you can see, I think every series will be competitive. I could also see Washington, Pittsburgh or San Jose winning in FIVE or sweeping if everything clicks, but I highly doubt it. There are too many tough road games and winning in Montreal and Ottawa respectively will be tough in those buildings.
Get your playoff beards ready for a tremendous couple months people, the time is upon us! GO CAPS! UNLEASH THE FURY!!!!!
Return the glory of the Original Six. If it can't be Wings, then Blackhawks.
Backyard Champ
04-14-2010, 05:09 PM
Love the NHL playoffs. Can't thnk of anything better. NCAA is close, only problem is it comes and goes so quickly.
My Picks
1) Capitals over 8) Canadiens in FIVE: Love the Caps, just too good for Canadiens.
7) Flyers over 2)Devils in SEVEN: Flyers have been playing well recently, dangerous team. Marty is too old, saw that in the Olympics
3) Sabres over 6) Bruins in SIX: Sabres have a great goalie in Miller, and Bruins offense isn't spectacular
4) Penguins over 5) Senators in SIX: Penguins are going to get it together and make a run.
1) Sharks over 8) Avalanche in SEVEN: I think Avalanche can skate with the Sharks, in the end Sharks pull it out in the Shark tank in game 7
2) Blackhawks over 7) Predators in SIX: Big fan of the Hawks this year.
3) Canucks over 6)Kings in FIVE: Love the Canucks, if hot, Luongo can carry this team a few series'
5) Red Wings over 4) Coyotes in SIX: Red wings are Hot and experienced.
XULucho27
04-14-2010, 08:56 PM
Well, the NHL playoffs are getting off to a fantastic start for me. Giving up 4 goals to the Senators on home ice... And here I thought the Caps and Hawks were the teams with question marks in goal. *sighs* :(
SlimKibbles
04-14-2010, 10:05 PM
I love the hockey playoffs but would be much more interested if Calgary were in it. Been a fan since '89. Haven't had much to root for in recent years.
AviatorX
04-14-2010, 10:23 PM
I'm a fan on the San Jose Sharks. Because of this, I know what it's like to be a Dayton fan and dominate the offseason and (occasionally, OK, well not in UD's case) the regular season, before completely fading at the end.
Maybe this year will be different.
Well, Fleury looked kind of high tonight. I know going down 1-0 is nothing to the defending champs, but giving up 5 goals on home ice could be something for sure. If Philly holds on this would be a great start for me personally in the East. We need to see at least one upset in the first round to really simplify our path.
Backyard Champ
04-15-2010, 01:30 AM
Pitt did not look very good tonight. Don't know what it was, but they weren't playing like they did last year. Thought they were going to after the quick goal, but after that it seemed like it was all Ottawa.
Glad the wings lost, can't stand them. Hoping phoenix makes a nice little run this year.
Great first night of the playoffs though. All games decided by one goal. Hopefully we can get our first OT game tomorrow night.
Glad the wings lost, can't stand them. Hoping phoenix makes a nice little run this year.
Great first night of the playoffs though. All games decided by one goal. Hopefully we can get our first OT game tomorrow night.
What's to hate about the Wings? Holmstrom's a beast in the crease? They play hockey and pass on the fighting, hit the open man, can string more than two passes together.
Ah, we all have our betes noir, Champ. But for me, Lindsey to Delvechio to Howe will always be the Production Line, even if they never got the Cup.
What's to hate about the Wings? Holmstrom's a beast in the crease? They play hockey and pass on the fighting, hit the open man, can string more than two passes together.
Ah, we all have our betes noir, Champ. But for me, Lindsey to Delvechio to Howe will always be the Production Line, even if they never got the Cup.
Really Emp? What's to hate about the Wings? First off, any franchise with such enormous success is going to be hated by most everyone else naturally, but we'll disregard that.
If you're a Detroit Tigers fan, for one, you'll hate your owner, Mike Ilitch, for neglecting baseball at the expense of hockey for all those years. Personally I love the guy for it, but let's be honest, many Detroit people don't feel the same way.
As far as Holmstrom being a "beast in the crease," what you meant to say is that he's guilty of interference just about every shift, but God forbid if a defender initiates anything with him. They draw a penalty, then try to fight him, then he weasels himself away. If that's the way you pass on fighting then it doesn't mean you took the high road, it means you're a pest and a pussy.
I don't know what the "hit the open man and string more than two passes together" comment is supposed to mean, but there are 15 other teams left that would be playing golf right now if they couldn't do that. Look no further than the nations capital for the best example of a team with great offensive flow.
Here's what I hate, Detroit thinks it's Hockeytown. Enough said. Detroit, Michigan is about the 5th or 6th biggest NHL hockey town on a good year. I'm not exactly from Montreal myself, but I don't pretend like my town is anything it's not: a great hockey town when we're good, a back page team when we're bad. If I were a Candian I'd be offended by that title, but then again if I were a Canadian I'd have an inferiority complex and be offended easily anyway. Again, I don't hate on the bandwagon thing, I encourage it for this sport, but I don't like phonies. All my Michigan family members and friends love hockey... around mid-May. And for a little place, the Joe has had some issues selling out lately. Is that what Hockeytown becomes when they aren't a division winner for once? It's a cult sport no matter where you go in America (although it's much bigger in some places) and will probably always be. In fact, the only sport that just about everyone follows regardless of the city is NFL football. That's it. It'd be like me proclaiming Washington, "Footballtown."
Let me say though, I'm not really a Wings hater even though they own the sport and beat us in our only Finals appearance. I really respect them and think they're, plain and simple, the best franchise in professional sports over the last two decades. I just am really taken back that someone could ask the question, "How could you hate Detroit?"
MD Muskie
04-15-2010, 03:56 PM
Is it 7pm yet!?! I need my playoff hockey. Come on this day is going so slow. Let's go CAPS! UNLEASH THE FURY!
XULucho27
04-15-2010, 03:57 PM
Really Emp? What's to hate about the Wings? First off, any franchise with such enormous success is going to be hated by most everyone else naturally, but we'll disregard that.
If you're a Detroit Tigers fan, for one, you'll hate your owner, Mike Ilitch, for neglecting baseball at the expense of hockey for all those years. Personally I love the guy for it, but let's be honest, many Detroit people don't feel the same way.
As far as Holmstrom being a "beast in the crease," what you meant to say is that he's guilty of interference just about every shift, but God forbid if a defender initiates anything with him. They draw a penalty, then try to fight him, then he weasels himself away. If that's the way you pass on fighting then it doesn't mean you took the high road, it means you're a pest and a pussy.
I don't know what the "hit the open man and string more than two passes together" comment is supposed to mean, but there are 15 other teams left that would be playing golf right now if they couldn't do that. Look no further than the nations capital for the best example of a team with great offensive flow.
Here's what I hate, Detroit thinks it's Hockeytown. Enough said. Detroit, Michigan is about the 5th or 6th biggest NHL hockey town on a good year. I'm not exactly from Montreal myself, but I don't pretend like my town is anything it's not: a great hockey town when we're good, a back page team when we're bad. If I were a Candian I'd be offended by that title, but then again if I were a Canadian I'd have an inferiority complex and be offended easily anyway. Again, I don't hate on the bandwagon thing, I encourage it for this sport, but I don't like phonies. All my Michigan family members and friends love hockey... around mid-May. And for a little place, the Joe has had some issues selling out lately. Is that what Hockeytown becomes when they aren't a division winner for once? It's a cult sport no matter where you go in America (although it's much bigger in some places) and will probably always be. In fact, the only sport that just about everyone follows regardless of the city is NFL football. That's it. It'd be like me proclaiming Washington, "Footballtown."
Let me say though, I'm not really a Wings hater even though they own the sport and beat us in our only Finals appearance. I really respect them and think they're, plain and simple, the best franchise in professional sports over the last two decades. I just am really taken back that someone could ask the question, "How could you hate Detroit?"
Yea pretty much all that. Also, my in-laws are Wings fans and they annoy me. Also, I despise any team that plays a neutral-zone trap, which the Wings have been known to do from time to time with a 1 or 2 goal lead in playoff games. Other than that I got no gripe with them. :D
MD Muskie
04-15-2010, 03:57 PM
Oh yeah PMI, i might have to take you up on tickets in the later rounds. See you at the game tonight.
I agree Holmstrom poaches and gets away with things. That's why I put that at the top of my suggested list.
The Hockeytown thing rattles more cages than I could ever imagine. I don't think it can fairly be interpreted as The (only) town where hockey is most loved. (contrast the "THE" Ohio State University, the most pompous self aggrandizement EVER). Boston has a better claim to best American hockey city, pro and amateur combined; though a sizable crowd for the Frozen Four at Ford Field last week in a town badly hit economically might contradict me.) I've never heard anyone in Detroit claim that its a better fan town than Montreal.
You may want to look at long term attendance figures and some geography before you write off Wings fans as "front runners." Long before the Russians and the beloved Steve Yzerman arrived, there was a drought of over 30 years. Yet the franchise attendance was more than adequate. The Ambassador Bridge is in a funny location, unless you know that half of Ontario from Detroit to Toronto is Wings territory, not Leafs, and commuted to the old Olympia blocks from the foot of the strategically placed bridge.
The Wings play a disciplined, skilled game. I like to watch Ovechkin and Crosby as much as anyone; but as a team, five players moving the puck from the defensive to the offensive end, is much more pleasing to me. 1-on-1 Rick Nash power moves and the dump-and-scrum-in-the-corners game I see at Nationwide up here in Columbus sucks.
I'm surprised I didn't hear about the "Sidney delayed handshake" whining after the game 7 loss last year. I thought a few of the Wings were just looking for something to bitch about.
As for Mike Ilitch and the Tigers, the guy is personally saving major league sports in Detroit. Tiger Stadium, as much as I loved it, had outlived its useful purpose, and someone needed to get a new stadium in place. I give him all the credit for that.
Backyard Champ
04-15-2010, 05:52 PM
Oh yeah PMI, i might have to take you up on tickets in the later rounds. See you at the game tonight.
So jealous you guys are going to the game. That has to be crazy. Playoff Hockey is outstanding, don't know how you could last the whole day.
AviatorX
04-15-2010, 06:43 PM
I'm a fan on the San Jose Sharks. Because of this, I know what it's like to be a Dayton fan and dominate the offseason and (occasionally, OK, well not in UD's case) the regular season, before completely fading at the end.
Maybe this year will be different.
Not to pull a GuyFawkes and quote myself, but based on last night's performance, I'm to the point where I'm expecting the Sharks to lose this series.
Well, it's been a rough start for the high seeds. Some people have been freaking out around here. "Only 2 goals, Ovechkin didn't score, Green's trash," etc. We put 47 shots on net last night. FORTY FREAKING SEVEN. There's no way we will put that many shots on goal again and not have more go in. The sky is not falling, trust me.
Aviator, the Sharks could have shown more intensity and less hesitation in my mind, but they lost on a pretty freakish goal there at the end. Despite their recent history, I wouldn't start pulling my hair out yet, but on the same note you have to hope the players don't let all of it get to their heads. They need to loosen up and do their thing. They're a much better team than the young up-and-coming Avs. It's all mental at this point.
I think the Pens are a team with little to worry about, unless Fleury really can't turn it around. I'm just not sold on Ottawa having the ability to win a series against them. The Capitals, oddly enough, had the opposite problems as Pittsburgh last night. They could have been better defensively but weren't too bad. Theodore looked very solid. The offense (minus Ovechkin) had it's opportunities but weren't capitalizing. I don't expect that to continue. But it's scary now losing home ice and having a very, very important game this early in the series. The Caps have been a stellar team with their backs against the wall all year and I expect to see a statement win tomorrow. 5-1. You heard it here first. Montreal is in for a world of hurt Saturday night.
Backyard Champ
04-17-2010, 01:48 AM
PMI, for some reason I'm not really concerned that the caps lost. I feel pretty comfortable that they will win the series.
Michigan Muskie
04-17-2010, 09:37 AM
The go-ahead goal, the power play goal, and the empty netter in the final 6 minutes punctuated an extremely entertaining game in Phoenix last night. Yes, playoff hockey is outstanding.
That speaks to the debate about fans in Detroit showing interest "around Mid May." I'm certain there are fans like that in Detroit. I'm also certain there are fans like that of every sport in every city who don't show a whole lot of interest until playoff/tournament time. There are also die-hards of every sport in every city who get just as jacked for a pre-season game as they would for one that decides the championship.
Fact is, Michigan doesn't have a whole lot to celebrate lately, whether it's sports, cars, government, housing, economy, etc. The Lions are a joke. The Tigers have generated interest, but baseball in general has become less popular.
There are two constants in this state: University of Michigan and Red Wings hockey. The broad stroke of love for U of M is as painful for me here as the love for OSU was for me in Cincinnati. The fan base is enormous and generally obnoxious. (although one can probably say that about fans of any team they don't like.)
At least with the U of M, there are dissenters like State fans who can balance some of that out. With the Red Wings, it's a statewide phenomenon. And yes, the closer it comes to playoff time, the more energetic this state becomes. But I'll tell you, it's something I look forward to every year.
My dad likes to tell a story about when he used to live in Michigan about 40 years ago. He would be driving somewhere with the Red Wings game on the radio during the playoffs and when they'd score, people started honking their horns all around him. Everyone was listening to the game - and responding in kind. Now, if I'm outside grilling burgers while the game is on and the Wings score, you can hear an eruption throughout our subdivision. Fortunately, the Wings tend to make deep runs in the playoffs so we get to enjoy this post-season euphoria for a while.
I agree with you Mich Muskie. Every team has it's different levels of fans and The Wings have been (ahead of UM football unfortunately) the only consistent winner of the last 20 years up there.
I actually forgot to mention two of the most obvious things when Emp asked the ridiculous question about how one could hate the Red Wings:
-They throw octopi on the ice. Seriously. They interrupt the games by throwing disgusting, slimy sea creatures on the ice. I knew a kid who threw a cup on the court at Cintas freshman year and he was never allowed to attend another game there, but it is encouraged, or at the very least looked at not out of the norm, in Detroit to throw a dead octopus over the glass. Strange.
-They also employ Todd Bertuzzi, who committed one of the worst CRIMES in league history. Take a look (it's shown at about the 1:30 mark): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KA8cdtpV0vM
This put the player is the hospital for six months and ended his career FOREVER. Bertuzzi was playing again the next season. Now I'm not going to get into what an appropriate punishment is, eye-for-an-eye debates, or anything like that, but when you end someone's career THAT way, you are forever going to be one of the most hated people in your sport. Every time he is seen skating there are some fans (and a former player) who feel VERY passionately that he should not be playing.
Anyway, there were some much more exciting games last night and I'm hoping the Caps can follow the trend and get it back even as the high seed. I see a big night for the Washington offense.
XULucho27
04-17-2010, 12:49 PM
I'm very excited to see how the Caps respond to the loss on from Game 1. While I was very excited to see them lose, I highly doubt that the Habs will be able to win the series. PMI, you were right in pointing out the shot disparity in Game 1. The Caps got 1 goal on 47 shots, it doesn't matter if Halak plays at that level for the whole series, there is no way they'll put up that many shots and not score more than 1.
The other big factor was Ovechkin. Obviously the Habs did something right on defense (Boudreau mentioned the Habs effectively playing the gaps and taking away the open ice, limiting his shot total) but in my opinion Ovechkin had a bad game and that was more of a contributing factor than the Habs defense. I think Ovechkin gets it going in Game 2 and the goals start pouring in for the Caps.
The one aspect that did worry me going into the playoffs was the penalty killing and that seemed to be their undoing in Game 1. A lot of dumb penalties were committed which, although they did not result in goals, they kept the Caps playing on their heels and away from their strong transition offense, which I think is their bread and butter.
As for the Pens, it was good to see them rebound. Fleury usually needs to get an awful game out of his system once a series. Fortunately, he got it out in Game 1 and not in Game 6 or 7. It was also good to see the Pens win a grind-it-out style game were the difference was not the goal scoring, but the goaltending and defense.
So far the NHL playoffs have been OUTSTANDING! Lower teams are giving the high-seeds headaches and the high-seeds have almost all lost home-ice early in the series, which is rare to say the least. It's been mentioned many times on this thread and I have to agree, the NHL playoffs are the most exciting in sports!
Finally, PMI and Michigan Muskie, are either of you planning to go to Ann Arbor for the outdoor game between Michigan and Michigan State? It'll be played in the Big House and I'm very much looking forward to it. Let me know if either of you are going to go, we could tailgate beforehand!
I was going to talk to you about Ann Arbor, it's a possibility depending on what my schedule will be like. If the rumors of the Caps/Pens Winter Classic is legit next year then I know how I'll be spending my New Year's Day, and I know you can think of a certain Pittsburgh resident who I'm sure would be happy to let me crash and talk smack back and forth for a weekend. After the matchup is confirmed, Lucho, you should seriously consider looking into that.
I like the two 6 seed underdogs today. Everyone is acting like Buffalo will be automatic at home, but the way those two teams matchup I like it to be close and I think the Bruins stick around long enough to pull something out at the end. I also like the Kings to respond with a win. Vancouver is great but relies too heavily on one line, albeit the best line in the West this year. I like the Kings to win in a game with a little more scoring than the last one. Quick won't stop the Sedins all day but I think Luongo is in for one of his head-scratcher nights.
But enough chit chatting with you fools, I'm getting down to Chinatown early today. The white Semin jersey let us down so we're going to pull the switch to the red Ovechkin. It is an open jersey competition come playoff time regardless of regular season records, so even if I have to dust off the old white 98 sweater, so be it. GO CAPS!
XULucho27
04-17-2010, 01:04 PM
Yea, I was considering the Winter Classic but I'll probably be in Italy for New Year's. I'll keep you posted though on whether that changes in the next months.
XURunner85
04-17-2010, 02:13 PM
Chicago Blackhawks all the way!!!! Yes they lost game 1 but they will be the Stanley Cup Winners....
Masterofreality
04-17-2010, 04:51 PM
I know, I live in Cleveland where the NBA Championship is waiting to be won, but...
While I will definitely watch the Cavs, I will enjoy the NHL playoffs. Nothing like playoff hockey. The intensity and effort from guys is outstanding.
Today, I cannot believe that Buffalo blew a two goal lead, then gave up 2 more in the 3rd period. With freaking Ryan Miller in goal? Crazy.
There are always at least one or two upsets in the first round where a 1 or 2 seed goes down and I would guess that it will be no different this year. Right now every series is 1-1.
With High Def and big screens, hockey at this time of the year on TV is better than ever.
Masterofreality
04-17-2010, 04:58 PM
Return the glory of the Original Six. If it can't be Wings, then Blackhawks.
And please, no more Red Wings. Please someone take them out early.
The self-gloss of "Hockeytown" is so presumptuous and pompous. What? Because some clown decided to start throwing octopi on the ice you think that you are God's gift to the game?
No offense to Chicago, but unless you are a city in Canada where the sport was born, you cannot call yourself "Hockeytown".
Wow. There is nothing like playoff hockey. I have no voice and my head is still spinning. Nicklas Backstrom is a G. We are going to see a lot of game 7's in the NHL in the next couple months, believe that.
Michigan Muskie
04-18-2010, 11:12 PM
And please, no more Red Wings. Please someone take them out early.
I imagine this is what a conversation sounds like between fans of other A-10 teams talking about Xavier.
Strange Brew
04-18-2010, 11:15 PM
great win for the Caps. Onions galore.
wow hockeytown.
Pens and the kid roll.
playoff hockey is great theater.
MD Muskie
04-19-2010, 09:02 AM
Wow. There is nothing like playoff hockey. I have no voice and my head is still spinning. Nicklas Backstrom is a G. We are going to see a lot of game 7's in the NHL in the next couple months, believe that.
that game was unbelievable. When Backstrom scored that OT goal i nearly jumped through the roof from section 407. I am finally getting my voice back after losing it after Carlson's goal. That kid is a rookie and he had the steel balls to call for that puck because he knew he was going to score. That kid is going to be something special on the backline. Wow, now lets have them rip out the hearts of Canadiens' fans in Montreal tonight.
Tardy Turtle
04-20-2010, 09:18 AM
Claude Julien looks like he hasn't taken a shit in a month.
DC Muskie
04-20-2010, 09:22 AM
How do you:
Suck on that Montreal!
In French?
Masterofreality
04-20-2010, 02:53 PM
How do you:
Suck on that Montreal!
In French?
"Sucre de le coque, Mont-rea'l!"
Les Habitants en le excremont.
Tardy Turtle
04-22-2010, 09:02 AM
Too many men? In OT?
This isn't ****ing Jr. B, fellas.
Too many men? In OT?
This isn't ****ing Jr. B, fellas.
Yea there have been a strangely high number of too many men on the ice penalties this postseason. We had one last night too as did Vancouver. But notice that all the road teams were getting them. The only reasonable explanation I can think of is that the atmospheres in the buildings have been outstanding in the postseason. Usually coaches yell out their line changes and don't always give the tap on the back but when the place is blowing up it's more difficult to be hear clearly. It's a weak excuse at this level, but it's the only one I can think of.
DC Muskie
04-22-2010, 10:02 AM
I can't believe the Bruins are scoring like they are.
Yea stats (worst scoring team in the NHL against Miller) as well as other logic (losing Savard, etc.) would suggest that the Bruins would be scoring less than 2 goals a game in this series, but the B's did turn it on the last 10 games or so of the regular season. They're doing a much better job of controlling the puck and getting quality shots the last month or so IMO. I said before, I liked their chances of taking this series, but I had a lot of 2-1 games in mind. I think the bigger story of the series is that they're frustrating the Sabres offense, which is tough to do against such balance. You'd think a couple of their double-digit goal scorers would find a way to get it done, but Boston has really locked down. I never thought Boston was as bad as the numbers suggest, because they were pretty good on the road and good down the stretch, and always had good D and goaltending. I think the main story of the whole series is that Rask has been as good if not better than the American hero across from him.
nuts4xu
04-22-2010, 11:06 AM
Go Sabres!!
Bruins Suck!
Masterofreality
04-24-2010, 09:04 AM
Not so fast Caps.
Les Habs hang in with a win and Buffalo wins too. 3-2 in both series now.
Devastating loss by Phoenix to the Red Wings last night though. Gawd I hate the Wings. Please disappear, Schlockey Town.
Michigan Muskie
04-24-2010, 09:53 AM
Things are shaping up quite favorably for the Wings, especially with the opportunity to win the series at home Sunday. If the other seeds hold, they would face San Jose in the second round. The Wings went 3-1 against the Sharks this year including two wins in San Jose and the only loss coming in OT.
Got to take care of business in Detroit Sunday, though. I do not want to see them have to fly out to Glendale for a game 7.
MD Muskie
04-24-2010, 03:43 PM
here is why hockey players are the toughest SOBs in sports:
Eric Belanger of the Washington Capitals got a buttend of a hockey stick to his teeth last night. He lost 7 or 8 teeth and had some exposed roots. He ended up having a root canal in between periods and played over 10 more minutes of hockey. He also said that he would 100% ready for Game 6 on monday. That is dedication. Albert Haynesworth needs to get carted off the field once a game for the Skins because he is too tired. Got to love hockey players and the NHL Playoffs.
Masterofreality
04-26-2010, 08:48 PM
Not so fast.
Le ensemble c'est pas du tout fini!
Le Caps sont sucer.
Les Habitants en maitrise.
This is about to be a 3-3 ensemble'!!!
If Le Caps blow this series, all the District area guys on this board who care will have their heads spontaneously explode.
Masterofreality
04-26-2010, 09:44 PM
Wow!!
Halak est magnifique!!
What a performance. 53 saves. Talk about standing on your head!!!
Too bad the guy didn't get the shutout. He was outstanding.
And the Sabres go down. Buffalo will now sink into Lake Erie. The collective depression continues.
Backyard Champ
04-26-2010, 09:44 PM
Halak was amazing tonight. Caps have to bring it game 7 at home. I think if they can get 1 or 2 quick ones in on Halak they will win the game comfrotably. The further they go without scoring, the better Halak seems to get.
MD Muskie
04-27-2010, 10:34 AM
I really don't think the Caps played all that bad. They took 54 shots and Halak was saving everything. He was seeing a beachball out there. He stole that game. If they come shooting like that again i think they will win but you are right backyard, they need to score early and often or the Halak will get back in their heads.
DC Muskie
04-27-2010, 10:36 AM
That was truly an amazing performance, while at the same time, truly disgusting.
Xavier
04-27-2010, 01:18 PM
I have no doubt the Caps win game 7 at home. They have played great at home all season and really if they play the same way as game 6 I think they win. I would love to see a Power Play goal in the first 10 mins of the game. (Power play has been terrible).
I've never seen a team dominate a game in such fashion and lose by 3 goals. Halak was simply superhuman tonight. What worries me is that the way he's seeing the puck right now, I don't see him falling off that much. He won't be able to save 53/54 again (are you f***ing kidding me?) but he's not going to fold easily. Power Play HAS to produce if we're going to win this game. We are going to have our opportunities. We've been a hell of a team with our backs against the walls this season, but now we have to do it when it really matters.
Also, if Mike Green were a healthy scratch tomorrow I wouldn't mind. I've defended him in the past but he has been beyond abysmal in the postseason and I can't take his soft ass defense anymore. People who complained about him being left off Team Canada need to actually watch the games, and if he wins the Norris this year (as I previously would have endorsed) I will lose a lot of respect for the NHL awards. He's a top 4 player on our team talent-wise and he's been a bigger detriment to our cause than anything these 6 games. Pull your head out of you ass and wait until June to party like a rock star, Greenie. We need you tomorrow badly.
DC Muskie
04-27-2010, 03:39 PM
I wonder what the Caps would be like if they had more brusing type defenders. It's really getting annoying to watch green just disappear in the playoffs, and have him take 8,000 shots.
Not freaking out here of course, but I would be glad to get Semin his bus ticket out of town. We better trade him next season if he has any value.
Semin will have tremendous value given that he's arguably THE most talented player in the NHL. The problem is he doesn't have the Ovechkin/Crosby killer mentality and he's only going to give you 65-70 games if you're lucky. He can be the best player in the league or the worst on any given night, it's just what you get with him. That kind of explosiveness is fun and can lead to tremendous success but when he disappears, he not only isn't producing, he's taking dumb penalties and playing sloppy.
All that said, he hasn't played nearly as bad this series as his awful 1 point suggests. He's leading our team in shots and there have been a lot of quality shots that just aren't going in. The last 3 games I actually think he's been playing very well and has been the most aggressive player on the ice. For example, his assist in game 4 (the Ovi goal that everyone praised him for since it was a sick shot too) was beautiful, not so much for the pass but for everything leading up to it. Semin dragged 3 guys down the ice with him before kind of coughing it over to Ovi who only had to beat one defender (and Nick Backstrom was also wide open on the play.) When Semin is getting that kind of attention our team is at its best, but the production is all that matters and it hasn't been there at all.
Filthy Chilean
04-27-2010, 04:49 PM
PMI had a couple spot on predictions and could have another tonight if the Wings can finish the Coyotes.
The Caps came into the playoffs with the mindset that the cup is theirs if they show up. Anyone who knows and watches hockey realizes all it takes is one of those glorious streaks with a goalie who plays unconscious to win. (Although JS Giguere didn't win in '03, he was the reason for Ducks going to the cup).
Halak was very good last night but not super-human. Most of the shots were contested shots with no one in front of the net to bury a rebound or shield the goalie. Semin and Backstrom both missed the net uncontested from the center of the face-off circles.
The Caps are playing like they did when they let the Pens steal the series last year. Hopefully they start crashing the net and play with some urgency. They score first tomorrow, they should rattle Halak and hopefully watch him skate to the bench early in the game.
Masterofreality
04-27-2010, 07:19 PM
Nice puck discussion here- something I don't get to do very often.
Filthy I have to disagree. Halak was incredible last night. There were at least 4 occasions that I can immediately remember where there was a rocket on him and there was a rebound where he stoned the shooter. Hell there was one where he stoned two guys on opposite sides of the net. Most of the time he was perfectly positioned and never gave the Caps a rebound chance. As PMI said, the guy saw the puck beautifully last night.
The NHL is one playoff grouping where #1 and #2 seeds can go down in multi game series- and do with regularity over the years. The hot goalie is the determinator. The Habs have one who is smoking right now and if I were the Caps, I'd be very concerned. No doubt they'd better come out throwing stuff on net and pressing the issue. If Montreal scores first, look the hell out!
PM Thor
04-27-2010, 11:03 PM
I'll keep it simple. Go Wings.
I HATE dayton.
Michigan Muskie
04-27-2010, 11:41 PM
Utter domination tonight. From the drop of the first puck to the score of the final goal, the Red Wings flat out crushed Phoenix in the desert. Moving on to San Jose...
AviatorX
04-27-2010, 11:48 PM
This is the year. Let's go Sharks.
If Pavelski plays even close to the series he played against the Avs and the big line wakes up, I like my Sharks' chances in this one. Also let's pray Nabby doesn't go off on one of his mental vacations and continues his solid net minding.
Just like Xavier going through Duke to reach the Final Four, it's only right for SJ to go through the Wings on the way to the Cup.
Michigan Muskie
04-28-2010, 07:07 AM
This is the year. Let's go Sharks.
If Pavelski plays even close to the series he played against the Avs and the big line wakes up, I like my Sharks' chances in this one. Also let's pray Nabby doesn't go off on one of his mental vacations and continues his solid net minding.
Just like Xavier going through Duke to reach the Final Four, it's only right for SJ to go through the Wings on the way to the Cup.
The Sharks have put together a fine season and are an excellent team. The Wings have played them well this year, beating them 3 of 4 times including winning both games in San Jose. I think we're in for another outstanding series - maybe another game 7...
Filthy Chilean
04-28-2010, 07:45 AM
MOR, no doubt about it Halak played great. But the Habs defense was better. Alot of shots does not mean quality shots. His positioning was perfect because the defense forced the shooters to the unshielded lanes where Halak could make a save. The guy was great but if the Caps can crash the net, shield Halak and get some decent rebounds it should be a Wings v Coyotes type game.
Agreed MM, the Wings were completely dominant. Just look at the Coyote's power plays, non-existant. If Detroit continues that level of play they should run through San Jose.
Masterofreality
04-28-2010, 08:40 AM
Was Phoenix even on the ice last night?
Talk about a tilted rink. The Coyotes were skating up hill all night and I think that about 50 out of the 60 minutes were spent in the Phoenix zone. Way to show up in a game 7.
Le Caps had better come out as a team tonight or Montreal might steal this series. If Halak settles in in the first 10 minutes, look the hell out.
For the Caps guys, who should be in goal tonight?
Michigan Muskie
04-28-2010, 09:55 AM
Was Phoenix even on the ice last night?
Exactly.
Without a doubt the most one-sided affair in the series. I was at a B-Dubs in Indy shifting my eyes back and forth from the Reds and Red Wings games and every time I looked up the Wings were pounding the Phoenix zone. Even when it was a 2-1 game, it was pretty obvious that the Wings were going to skate away with this one.
Sharks have done damage to the Wings in the past, major caution there.
I am still wondering how Detroit managed to draw out a series that should have ended in 5 or 6. Old legs, long series, finally adds up. I love the skill levels of the Wings, but too many 7 game series will leave them flat if they manage to get to the Finals.
The Montreal-DC seventh game tonight is what hockey fans live for, and what makes the sport so compelling for those who have the taste. Ghost of my backyard rink and frozen tennis courts of my youth.
Filthy Chilean
04-28-2010, 10:26 AM
For the Caps guys, who should be in goal tonight?
Great question. Personally, I like them both but I would lean toward experience in this situation. Varlarmov has let in too many "soft" goals the Caps just can't have.
Theodore should start but Varlarmov will.
Masterofreality
04-28-2010, 01:57 PM
I'd agree with you on that one Filthy.
I would start Theodore, but the Caps and their coach just seem to be a little off center in this series, so who knows?
DC Muskie
04-28-2010, 02:52 PM
Varlamov will start according to the Post this afternoon.
I'm comfortable with him back there. Goaltending is so streaky, Halak was pulled not too long ago and was blasted for all the goals he gave up on his glove side.
The Caps backs are against the wall, my only hope is that this isn't a game seven like last season against the Pens.
Masterofreality
04-28-2010, 08:41 PM
Sacre Bleu!!!
Les Habitants 1-nil after 2 periods.
Things are getting a bit nervous in DC I suspect.
DC Muskie
04-28-2010, 09:28 PM
Can we healthy scratch Green now?
XULucho27
04-28-2010, 09:29 PM
Wow, just wow!
Edit: Can't count out the best offensive team in the league yet!
XULucho27
04-28-2010, 09:39 PM
Well I know you guys are all going to hate me and God knows it's gonna bite me in the ass when the Pens lose the next series but... Ladies and Gentlemen your 2009-2010 Washington Capitals!
http://thebsreport.files.wordpress.com/2009/12/choking-method.jpg
Masterofreality
04-28-2010, 09:44 PM
Caps Fans-
http://blog.jkbutcher.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/08/exploding-head-2.jpg
OMG. Halak stopped 131 of 134 shots in the last 4 games.
That is standing on your head- while balancing spinning plates.
SixFig
04-28-2010, 09:48 PM
I'm sad for hockey.
It really is a good sport and, lets not kid ourselved, it needed Ovechkin to matchup with Crosby to draw better ratings.
X-band '01
04-28-2010, 09:51 PM
http://img258.imageshack.us/img258/1951/picardfacepalmio3.jpg
Backyard Champ
04-28-2010, 09:54 PM
Can we healthy scratch Green now?
I wish they would have. That was a horrible penalty he got at the end of the first, and he did a horrible job hustling to the puck all night. Two stupid plays by him directly resulted in goals.
Not a big fan of the first goal they called back, but those are the breaks. Also didn't like the strategy of pulling the goalie that early. When you already have a man advantage, the goalie can just stop the dumps and get it to the D. Instead now when it's dumped they have to blow 15-30 second trying to get the puck outa the zone. Sure, pull him with around a minute or so left, not as early as they did.
Masterofreality
04-28-2010, 10:01 PM
I'm sad for hockey.
It really is a good sport and, lets not kid ourselved, it needed Ovechkin to matchup with Crosby to draw better ratings.
The real fans will still watch.
The rest of the world just misses out on the greatness of the game. Their loss.
And, I still can't get over Ovechkin just shoving a guy head first into the end-boards earlier this year. Maybe this was God's payback.
XULucho27
04-28-2010, 10:13 PM
I'm sad for hockey.
It really is a good sport and, lets not kid ourselved, it needed Ovechkin to matchup with Crosby to draw better ratings.
Agreed. Part of me was secretly hoping for another face off with the Caps to avenge the regular season sweep, but most of me is VERY glad that the Road to the Stanley Cup Final now runs through Pittsburgh.
Once again though, as a whole, I'm more intrigued with the match-ups in the West than with the ones in the East. That Vancouver-Chicago series has 7 games written all over it and San Jose-Detroit looks like it has the potential for several high scoring games.
All in all, I'm still very excited to see the games next round. Really hope Fleury doesn't get rattled up in Montreal though, that crowd will be insane!
Backyard Champ
04-28-2010, 10:28 PM
Agreed Lucho. I really like both the matchups in the west. The only thing that can make me like a matchup in the east is if Halak plays great again against Pitt. Then that would be a solid series. I have no interest in the Boston/Philly series though.
Been a huge fan of Luongo ever since he played for the Panthers. Back when I loved Florida for some reason.
DC Muskie
04-29-2010, 09:02 AM
Last year we lost because Green was hurt and it was, "Oh man what could have been if Green had been healthy."
Now we lose because Green is a dipshit. I know it's not that simple, but he and Semin combined for 0-55 on shots.
0-55.
Thanks for coming guys.
Halak was great obviously. But the Caps have demonstrated they will lose Game 7 at home. Third straight years is all the proof you need.
I was surprised the fans actually gave them an ovation. Maybe I'm a horrible fan, but I don't know how you clap for those guys in the biggest upset in NHL hockey history.
Masterofreality
04-29-2010, 09:08 AM
Last year we lost because Green was hurt and it was, "Oh man what could have been if Green had been healthy."
Now we lose because Green is a dipshit. I know it's not that simple, but he and Semin combined for 0-55 on shots.
0-55.
Thanks for coming guys.
Halak was great obviously. But the Caps have demonstrated they will lose Game 7 at home. Third straight years is all the proof you need.
I was surprised the fans actually gave them an ovation. Maybe I'm a horrible fan, but I don't know how you clap for those guys in the biggest upset in NHL hockey history.
Right on there, DC, and wasn't it Green that got outhustled to the puck on Montreal's second goal? I could be wrong on that. Some effort at crunch in Game 7.
And, right on the fans. Losing a 3-1 series lead to an 8 seed is nothing to cheer about. That would be equivalent to A) The Cavs losing to the Bulls, B) Duke losing to Morgan State, C) Xavier losing to udump in Cincinnati. Those are reasons to throw crap on the ice....not cheer.
DC Muskie
04-29-2010, 09:25 AM
Green did his best Richard Dorn impression on that play and O-Layed, while allowing the Habs to scoop it up and score.
Seriously the guy is just a big slow forward. Big deal.
Backyard Champ
04-29-2010, 11:56 AM
Green blew that one, and he also got the penalty on the first goal, a horrible penalty too. Kept an eye on him last night and he really did play bad, montreal had a lot more chances that were a result of his lack of hustle. Thank God Varlamov actually played pretty well, becaust if he didn't the score could have been much worse.
Right on there, DC, and wasn't it Green that got outhustled to the puck on Montreal's second goal? I could be wrong on that. Some effort at crunch in Game 7.
And, right on the fans. Losing a 3-1 series lead to an 8 seed is nothing to cheer about. That would be equivalent toXavier losing to udump in Cincinnati. Those are reasons to throw crap on the ice....not cheer.
Sooner or later the Flyers are going to catch us on an off night at Cintas, and a really great streak will end. I would think that would be an occasion for some sadness and disappointment, but the better gesture would be to applaud the streak than throw crap on the ice, metaphorically or otherwise. The Caps won the regular season. It sucks that they lost to the Habs, but appreciation of a great season seems reason enough to recognize that with some cheers.
DC Muskie
04-29-2010, 04:05 PM
The Caps won the regular season. It sucks that they lost to the Habs, but appreciation of a great season seems reason enough to recognize that with some cheers.
They did that at the last home game.
People pay a lot of money and invest a lot of emotion into the team. This wasn't like last year, where they lost to Pens in game seven and everyone stuck around and cheered, including me. Tough season, fought back to become better, lost in the conference semis to the eventual Cup Champion in a tough series.
This was an utter meltdown. Winning the regular season made this the biggest upset ever. EVER. I'm just saying clapping for what was a great regular season after the most embarrassing loss in the history of hockey takes a better person then me.
XULucho27
04-29-2010, 05:33 PM
This was an utter meltdown. Winning the regular season made this the biggest upset ever. EVER. I'm just saying clapping for what was a great regular season after the most embarrassing loss in the history of hockey takes a better person then me.
Yea I really don't know how they can appreciate what they did after such a terrible showing. The time to show appreciation for the regular season is in the last game of the season or if it were to occur after losing in the playoffs, it would have to be after either reaching the Conference Championship or Stanley Cup Final in my opinion. It's not as if the Capitals were awful last year made their first playoff appearance in years (Phoenix, Nashville etc.)
I can't imagine what you must be going through DC Muskie (and PMI for that matter). I would be LIVID if the Pens gave up a 3-1 series lead with home ice (especially since a 1 seed has NEVER lost a series to an 8 seed when they have a 3-1 lead). But as we discussed earlier you guys are 1 or 2 defensive pieces away from being unstoppable, the scoring is obviously already in place. I think this loss is due mostly to the matchup problems the Habs created, specifically your PK against their PP. You'll be back next year and IMO better than ever.
It'll be an interesting series between the Pens and Habs. We were awful in the first round giving up 7 Goals on 22 PP's (31% roughly) to the Sens. If we repeat that against a hot goaltender and a good team PK, we'll be toast as well. However I'm hoping Halak is just beat up and tired after that crazy series, thereby allowing Geno, Sid and the gang to go crazy on him. I'm predicting the Pens in 7!
Xman95
04-29-2010, 05:49 PM
Sooner or later the Flyers are going to catch us on an off night at Cintas, and a really great streak will end.
That's borderline ban-worthy, isn't it? Never utter (or type) those words again!
GuyFawkes38
04-29-2010, 06:49 PM
I got into a major argument with several posters for making the sensible claim that in hockey superior teams often run into difficulties against inferior teams in the playoffs and lose (often stems from running into a briefly hot goalie, but luck, itself, plays a role).
As Michael Wilbon said earlier on PTI, the Capitals losing shouldn't be too big of a surprise. Hockey is built for that sort of thing to happen.
I do think it hurts the game. Why watch the regular season in hockey? In the NBA, teams who play well in the regular season usually always play well in the post season. The predictability of the NBA playoffs can definitely be seen as a weakness of the game. But I like it. The best teams and players win (not so in hockey).
F*** Mike Green. That's all right now, I can't deal with this yet.
DC Muskie
04-29-2010, 08:31 PM
I can't imagine what you must be going through DC Muskie (and PMI for that matter). I would be LIVID if the Pens gave up a 3-1 series lead with home ice (especially since a 1 seed has NEVER lost a series to an 8 seed when they have a 3-1 lead). But as we discussed earlier you guys are 1 or 2 defensive pieces away from being unstoppable, the scoring is obviously already in place. I think this loss is due mostly to the matchup problems the Habs created, specifically your PK against their PP. You'll be back next year and IMO better than ever.
Well, I'm pretty pissed, and PMI is a bigger fan and more knowledgeable of hockey then I. I just never thought we'd lose.
As Michael Wilbon said earlier on PTI, the Capitals losing shouldn't be too big of a surprise. Hockey is built for that sort of thing to happen.
Please do me a favor...
Stop watching PTI. Tony K is a shell of himself and is now just an old bitter man.
And Wilbon. Wilbon is not surprised by anything. I'm serious, my friends and I have a running joke on how Wilbon is not surprised by anything. He wasn't surprised that Sean Taylor was murdered in his home while his family was sleeping. He wasn't surprised GTown lost in the first round. Nothing surprises Wilbon, so of course he wasn't surprised by the biggest upset in hockey. Wilbon is all knowing, all insightful, all aware.
XULucho27
04-29-2010, 08:38 PM
I got into a major argument with several posters for making the sensible claim that in hockey superior teams often run into difficulties against inferior teams in the playoffs and lose (often stems from running into a briefly hot goalie, but luck, itself, plays a role).
As Michael Wilbon said earlier on PTI, the Capitals losing shouldn't be too big of a surprise. Hockey is built for that sort of thing to happen.
I do think it hurts the game. Why watch the regular season in hockey? In the NBA, teams who play well in the regular season usually always play well in the post season. The predictability of the NBA playoffs can definitely be seen as a weakness of the game. But I like it. The best teams and players win (not so in hockey).
Ok there are a lot of things I take exception with here so I'll address them individually.
1) If your source of information regarding hockey is Michael Wilbon then right off the bat I have to dismiss everything you say. Wilbon doesn't know the first thing about hockey and the discussion of the sport on PTI is usually reserved for egregious play (violent penalties and the such) and playoff games. They (admittedly) do not know much about the game.
2) You attribute the victories of lesser seeded teams (or most teams for that matter) to luck WAY too often. By doing so you're cheapening the immense talent these athletes have. While luck plays a role in hockey, it is no more pronounced than in any other sport.
3) Hockey is not "built" for upsets, but rather these upsets occur naturally because of the parity of talent in the league. Aside from the Crosby's, Ovechkin's, Sedin's, and Kane's of the league, most of the players are very equal in talent. Many third and fourth liners are interchangeable from team to team, not because they are all bad, but rather because they all share a similar talent level. The sport does not lend itself to upsets, parity does. It's not as if 1 seeds lose to 8 seeds every year either, in fact, this is the first time a 1 seed has lost to an 8 seed after holding a 3-1 series lead. While in the East every top seed lost, I assure this is an anomaly. Relying solely on this this post-season to prove your point amounts to pulling the most favorable statistical data to prove a theory. You have to look at history as a whole. That being said I will stipulate that the top seed has been upset by the 8 seed 9 times since the format was switched in 1994. While this may be more than in other sports it is not by any means the "norm" nor does it occur so frequently as to assume that in hockey the better does not usually win.
4) Finally, I would rather watch the NHL regular season before watching an NBA playoff game. The regular season is exciting and it's fantastic, especially coming down the stretch when teams are jockeying for playoff positioning. This is simply a matter of preference.
Do more upsets occur in the NHL than in the other major sports? Sure. Does it hurt the sport? When one of the most recognizable players is bounced from the playoffs, of course. Does that mean that it's the norm or that the sport inherently lends itself to having the lesser of two teams win more often? No. I understand the point you're trying to make, but it's just not correct. When it comes down to it, I just think you don't a) like hockey and b) you don't understand it. If that's the case why bitch about it? Just stop watching and stop posting. We're all entitled to our opinion but you're going out of your way to tell us why you don't like it. We don't care big guy.
GuyFawkes38
04-29-2010, 09:20 PM
3) Hockey is not "built" for upsets, but rather these upsets occur naturally because of the parity of talent in the league. Aside from the Crosby's, Ovechkin's, Sedin's, and Kane's of the league, most of the players are very equal in talent. Many third and fourth liners are interchangeable from team to team, not because they are all bad, but rather because they all share a similar talent level. The sport does not lend itself to upsets, parity does. It's not as if 1 seeds lose to 8 seeds every year either, in fact, this is the first time a 1 seed has lost to an 8 seed after holding a 3-1 series lead. While in the East every top seed lost, I assure this is an anomaly. Relying solely on this this post-season to prove your point amounts to pulling the most favorable statistical data to prove a theory. You have to look at history as a whole. That being said I will stipulate that the top seed has been upset by the 8 seed 9 times since the format was switched in 1994. While this may be more than in other sports it is not by any means the "norm" nor does it occur so frequently as to assume that in hockey the better does not usually win.
Lets say that a middle of the pack NBA team played a middle of the pack college basketball team. Likewise, the same thing happens for hockey. So the talent level is, without a doubt, better for both professional league teams.
Which team has a better chance at winning? I'm going with hockey. The college basketball team would get crushed. But if that NHL team happened to play an incredible goalie who was at the top of his game, the college hockey team has a better chance than the college basketball team.
I think "luck" is the wrong word. There's just more of a possibility for an unexpected outcome in hockey.
Pete Delkus
04-29-2010, 11:07 PM
Sorry DC fans...tough way to end a promising season.
However, The Habs winning the series sits well with me. I tend to pull for the Canadian or small market team in playoff series. Halak wasn't the only hot player Washington ran into as Cammerlleri played his ass off.
I hope they can pull off another upset...I doubt it, but why not...Go Habs!
Masterofreality
04-30-2010, 08:11 AM
Finally, I would rather watch the NHL regular season before watching an NBA playoff game. The regular season is exciting and it's fantastic, especially coming down the stretch when teams are jockeying for playoff positioning. This is simply a matter of preference.
This above.
NHL guys bring it every night. I have never been to an NHL game where guys just mailed it in like in the NBA. Now, are there games where teams are tired and it's just not there on a given night? Yep, but I've never left an NHL game feeling Like I was gypped from effort like I have been from the NBA. That doesn't mean that I won't watch a CAVS playoff game before an NHL reg season game, though.
As for Montreal/Caps. Halak was a acrobatic act through the last 4 games. However, I have to give credit to the total Habs effort. They totally sold out on the defensive end and blocked an incredible number of shots before they even got to Halak. Then, they were judicious offensively and took their opportunities when they were presented- and cashed them in. I didn't see the same hustle from the Caps and Green's Ole' play on the last Montreal goal was the series in microcosm.
The Caps just got out worked and Montreal wanted it more. How does that rate an ovation from the home ice crowd? I sure don't see it.
wkrq59
05-01-2010, 04:01 AM
Let's look at a few facts, Guy. NHL hockey is first and foremost a game of skill and beauty governed by a few inalienable facts:
You don't win Stanley Cup play-off games, let along a Stanley Cup Without very, very, very good (often excellent ) goal-tending. Period. No exceptions. I can't remember whether it was 71 or 72 that the Boston Bruins had: Bobby "Fxxxing" Orr, Phil Esposito, Johnny Bucyk, Gerry Cheevers, Wayne Cashman and a supporting cast of a team that won the Cup in 70 on Orr's diving in-the-air goal over St. Louis. They met a mediocre Montreal Canadiens team with tons of tradition but an untried rookie in goal. The Habs won because the goalie's name was Ken Dryden and he won a place in the Hockey Hall of Fame that series. He became a legend in Canada that would later be supplanted by a kid from Brantford, Ont., one of Walter Gretzky's sons, Wayne.
But without Grant Fuhr and later Kelly Hrudy in net and Messier, Kuri, Lowe, Anderson, and the other Oilers, those four consecutive Cups would have been a dream unfulfilled. From Patrick Roy to Chris Osgood, to Martin Brodeur to Marc-Andre Fleury, to Miller, to Longo, Brizgalov, to Hasek, to Bauer to you pick a name. Goalies rule. The best teams in the league with Alex O. to Gordie Howe,et al could be and were beaten by hot goalies.
Nothing against Bruce Boudreau, but the Caps were out-coached and out-muscled in the last three games, period.
The Wings being pushed to 7 and then losing the opener to San Jose no surprise and if Robert Loungo gets hot, Canucks over Chicago. Bruins and Flyers should be a nasty conflict, the one who sheds the least blood wins.
The Pens and the Habs have a good series ahead. The Pens have better goal-tending, and, if they can win Sunday, should take the series in five.
The difference between Ovechkin and Crosby is Crosby is more of a team player than he used to be, and he has Kris Kunitz and Billy Guerin on his line. Toss in Malkin and Stahl and you've got a pretty good group but it is the defense of Gonchar, Goligoski, Letang and Orpik who I think are better than the Habs.
If I were a chalk player I'd see Pens and Bruins in the East and Wings and Canucks in the West with the Pens and Wings again.
Any hockey but especially the NHL, regular season or Stanley Cup playoffs is preferred to NBA. But College Basketball rules.
XU 17
05-01-2010, 03:20 PM
Hope your wrong about the Canucks over Chicago. It's likley that Loungo grew up after last years match up and the Olympics. If Kane/Toews get in his head early, I think the Hawks handle them in 6. Also rooting for Detroit for the first time ever. If the Hawks do get a chance at the cup, it would be nice to see it go through Detroit. Some great games ahead.
wkrq59
05-02-2010, 03:46 AM
17,
I'll tell you after Monday night if I'm wrong about the Canucks. Saturday's whipping of the Hawks was one of the worst displays of hockey I have seen in my many years of watching a game I love.Where we got to see some good games in the first round, the second, thus far has been blah if you're not a fan of the Pens and Canucks. The Bruins were lucky Mark Savard got even luckier and the Wings-Sharks opener was as close to a good final period as they come. I was, however very impressed by the Pens and to an almost similar extent the Canucks. :logo:
Masterofreality
05-03-2010, 09:36 AM
Another great perfomance by Halak. The Habs steal a game in the igloo and now have home ice against Pitt.
I guess he just doesn't do his acrobatic act against the Caps.
That's borderline ban-worthy, isn't it? Never utter (or type) those words again!
Xman, relax. I didn't say it was going to happen within our lifetimes.
XU 17
05-04-2010, 12:08 AM
Looks like there will be a Hawks/Canucks series afterall. Loungo played fantastic in game 1 and both tenders looked good tonight. Turning point was the Canucks failed 3 on 1 in the 3rd. They score, series over. Not the physical match up I expected, but we'll see if things change in Vancouver. Still like the Hawks in 6.
GuyFawkes38
05-04-2010, 01:21 AM
I thought the hawks got really lucky. And the Bruins also were lucky earlier tonight. And so did every NHL hockey team that's won thus far.
XULucho27
05-04-2010, 11:28 AM
I thought the hawks got really lucky. And the Bruins also were lucky earlier tonight. And so did every NHL hockey team that's won thus far.
Jesus Christ dude, you're like a broken record. Just go away.
Hope springs eternal, but the old legs cannot be completely compensated for by offensive prowess.
The Wings have a way of coming back from deficits that puts their front-running to shame, but the Sharks should put this one away at home Saturday. Should they fail, things will get interesting.
There's a part of me that feels like if there can be a comeback from 3-0 in the NHL that the Wings over the Sharks would seem to fit the bill. However, I believe this year is different. I think the Sharks are finally poised to do it and I think they are going to the Stanley Cup Finals. Detroit just doesn't have the elite goaltending to keep the Sharks offense down for 3 more games and the Sharks look physically superior in my opinion. I think this could be the year that San Jose finally shakes the title of regular season greats but playoff fizzles.
XULucho27
05-07-2010, 11:31 AM
Hope springs eternal, but the old legs cannot be completely compensated for by offensive prowess.
The Wings have a way of coming back from deficits that puts their front-running to shame, but the Sharks should put this one away at home Saturday. Should they fail, things will get interesting.
If the Sharks don't close them out at home on Saturday, you can close the book on this series. The Wings thrive when opponents let them hang around. That team in April/May/June, always scares me.
Kahns Krazy
05-07-2010, 12:08 PM
Lets say that a middle of the pack NBA team played a middle of the pack college basketball team. Likewise, the same thing happens for hockey. So the talent level is, without a doubt, better for both professional league teams.
Which team has a better chance at winning? I'm going with hockey. The college basketball team would get crushed. But if that NHL team happened to play an incredible goalie who was at the top of his game, the college hockey team has a better chance than the college basketball team.
I think "luck" is the wrong word. There's just more of a possibility for an unexpected outcome in hockey.
Low scoring sports have a higher chance of a single event affecting the outcome of the game. That is true in hockey, baseball, and football to some extent (Super Bowl 43 comes to mind).
However, if you think there are college teams out there that could compete with NHL teams, you're high.
GuyFawkes38
05-07-2010, 08:35 PM
Low scoring sports have a higher chance of a single event affecting the outcome of the game. That is true in hockey, baseball, and football to some extent (Super Bowl 43 comes to mind).
However, if you think there are college teams out there that could compete with NHL teams, you're high.
yeah, that's the point I was trying to make.
The scoring of hockey is less responsive to the play on the ice than in basketball. In basketball, a good play almost always has a direct impact on the score.
XU 17
05-08-2010, 01:47 AM
"We lost our composure again," Luongo said. "I don't know why it happened. We were all on the same page before the game started. One thing led to another and we lost our composure again."
Actually think the Sedin twins are the ones who are losing their composure. Too interested in settling old scores, versus scoring period.
Backyard Champ
05-08-2010, 03:03 AM
yeah, that's the point I was trying to make.
The scoring of hockey is less responsive to the play on the ice than in basketball. In basketball, a good play almost always has a direct impact on the score.
Who is to say that a great goalie doesn't have a bigger impact on the score then a great player in basketball? The scoring in hockey has a lot to do with the play on the ice, ignoring the fact that a goalie playing great doesn't count as part of the play on the ice is ignorant. It would be similar to a team like the suns playing a great defensive team. The suns usually score tons of points, but playing a great defensive team they could be stopped. Are you going to say that their high powered offense was stopped because they played a great defense? If so, then you have to say the same thing in hockey. The Canadians stopped a high powered offense, similarly to the way someone in the NBA would stop a high powered suns team.
I just don't understand how you think the scoring isn't responsive to the play on the ice. Unless of course, you are ignoring the fact that a hot goalie is part of the team. Wouldn't a hot goalie stopping many shots be responsive to the play on the ice? Thinking that a great offensive play should result in a goal is ignoring the goalie in the sport. If you want to see how a game is played, look at the shots on net. If a team has many more shots on net then the opposing team, but still loses, then you can come to the conclusion that the goalie stepped up.
A while ago I remember getting into a similar argument with you. The difference was, you were saying something along the lines of, you don't like hockey because the play on the ice isn't representative of the score. You didn't like the fact that 8 seeds could beat 1 seeds. Yet you like basketball, where 1 seeds almost always beat 8 seeds. I don't know why you would dislike a sport where any team could win any night. To say the best team doesn't always win in hockey is just foolish, unless of course you don't count a goalie as part of the team.
XULucho27
05-08-2010, 12:44 PM
Who is to say that a great goalie doesn't have a bigger impact on the score then a great player in basketball? The scoring in hockey has a lot to do with the play on the ice, ignoring the fact that a goalie playing great doesn't count as part of the play on the ice is ignorant. It would be similar to a team like the suns playing a great defensive team. The suns usually score tons of points, but playing a great defensive team they could be stopped. Are you going to say that their high powered offense was stopped because they played a great defense? If so, then you have to say the same thing in hockey. The Canadians stopped a high powered offense, similarly to the way someone in the NBA would stop a high powered suns team.
I just don't understand how you think the scoring isn't responsive to the play on the ice. Unless of course, you are ignoring the fact that a hot goalie is part of the team. Wouldn't a hot goalie stopping many shots be responsive to the play on the ice? Thinking that a great offensive play should result in a goal is ignoring the goalie in the sport. If you want to see how a game is played, look at the shots on net. If a team has many more shots on net then the opposing team, but still loses, then you can come to the conclusion that the goalie stepped up.
A while ago I remember getting into a similar argument with you. The difference was, you were saying something along the lines of, you don't like hockey because the play on the ice isn't representative of the score. You didn't like the fact that 8 seeds could beat 1 seeds. Yet you like basketball, where 1 seeds almost always beat 8 seeds. I don't know why you would dislike a sport where any team could win any night. To say the best team doesn't always win in hockey is just foolish, unless of course you don't count a goalie as part of the team.
All great points. Don't waste your breath though. Sound logic and a coherent argument usually don't get through to him on this subject.
As for the Canadiens, they're starting to make me nervous. They're solid defense is frustrating the Pens into poor percentage shots which Halak can easily swallow up. The Pens showed in Game 3 that they can win tough defensive game, but they've also shown they can lose those games. Pens need to sweep the next two and get out of this series, pronto!
All great points. Don't waste your breath though. Sound logic and a coherent argument usually don't get through to him on this subject.
As for the Canadiens, they're starting to make me nervous. They're solid defense is frustrating the Pens into poor percentage shots which Halak can easily swallow up. The Pens showed in Game 3 that they can win tough defensive game, but they've also shown they can lose those games. Pens need to sweep the next two and get out of this series, pronto!
Agreed. Let's try to make this the one thread that dbag doesn't hijack and keep it on playoff hockey.
If Fleury shows up tonight as head-case Fleury, this series gets really interesting. I expect Crosby to break out of his "funk," if you can really call it that, but I still think Halak is going to be on his A game so all goals will be earned. The Habs have a way of not only frustrating an offense, but also translating it into their own opportunistic offense. They can get outplayed for long stretches and still find themselves up in the game, not only because of great goaltending and D but because they seem to take advantage of opportunities regardless of how often they come. This formula will eventually bring you back down to earth, but they've stayed hot so we will see. If they win tonight I think there's a very legitimate chance we see an original six matchup in the Eastern Finals, and if Detroit wins tonight, there's a very legit chance we see an all original six final four.
PM Thor
05-08-2010, 11:32 PM
Low scoring sports have a higher chance of a single event affecting the outcome of the game. That is true in hockey, baseball, and football to some extent (Super Bowl 43 comes to mind).
However, if you think there are college teams out there that could compete with NHL teams, you're high.
Well, the obvious example that one would make would be the '80 US Olympic hockey team. Sure, it was made of "all Americans", but that Soviet team had a roster full of pros on it.
I think there are one or two college teams that could compete with the worst NHL teams. Beat them? Probably not, but give them a good game? Absolutely.
Oh and go Wings. Gotta take advantage of these power plays.
I HATE dayton.
PM Thor
05-09-2010, 12:50 AM
Like I said, Detroit had to take advantage of the power plays, they didn't, and they lost. Crap.
I HATE dayton.
XULucho27
05-09-2010, 04:26 AM
Well, the obvious example that one would make would be the '80 US Olympic hockey team. Sure, it was made of "all Americans", but that Soviet team had a roster full of pros on it.
I understand what you're saying, but that's not really a fair comparison. The '80 Olympic team was a compilation of THE best college players, a good amount of which went pro. Also, the intangibles surrounding that game (cold war, Soviet dominance of the sport etc.) played a HUGE role in getting those kids up and ready to play. The whole notion of having a college team play a pro team as a basis for comparison is absurd. But, for arguments sake, if it were the case, my opinion is that the fourth line of EVERY NHL team would dominate a run of the mill college first line. It's not even close. College hockey in the U.S. is by NO means a development league for the pros, as is the case with NCAA basketball and football. If anything, I'd say a Canada Junior Hockey League team would have a better chance, and they would still lose 98 times out of 100. Regardless, as PMI advised earlier, I will steer the conversation back toward these playoffs.
PM Thor, you were dead on about the Wings. They needed to capitalize on the PP and failed to do so. I still believe that if they would have won tonight, they would have taken the series in 7. That being said, it's good to finally see the Sharks live up to their potential. A Sharks-Hawks series is very enticing.
As for my team, (the Pens) it was once again good to see them win a close game. However, I have a feeling they'll lose Game 6 on the road. I hope they prove me wrong and close this series out on Monday. I do NOT want to play the Habs in a Game 7.
Masterofreality
05-09-2010, 07:53 AM
Now that "Hockeytown" is no longer involved, I suppose the entire season is over.
The sport can't officially be played in other places, can it?
waggy
05-09-2010, 11:22 AM
I know next to nothing about the game, can't name a single player, and haven't watched a minute all year... But I'm the Sharks bandwagon! Suck it, losers.
Yea I'm a Sharks believer right now. They're finally playing up to their talent level at the right time, and if they keep it that way, there's not a better team left in the NHL. I would lean HEAVILY towards a Sharks-Pens final right now.
By the way, anyone who thinks that any college hockey team could keep it within a couple goals of any NHL team is high on something that I'd like to try. NHL players would push college guys around like they were rag dolls. It wouldn't be fair or funny. Alright, maybe funny.
Masterofreality
05-10-2010, 07:58 AM
By the way, anyone who thinks that any college hockey team could keep it within a couple goals of any NHL team is high on something that I'd like to try. NHL players would push college guys around like they were rag dolls. It wouldn't be fair or funny. Alright, maybe funny.
College Hockey is not as good as juniors. I went to an Ontario Hockey League (Junior A)game last winter in Guelph. Those guys would push collegians around like their rag dolls.
Masterofreality
05-11-2010, 08:16 AM
Uh, don't look now but....
Les Habitants have taken this thing to a game 7- as with Washington.
It's hard to see them winning this series, but with a hot goaltender and Montreal continuing to smother shots, it could happen. They continue to play opportunistic offense.
Halak wasn't as sharp last night, but I sure like him in goal over Fleury. Montreal may have gotten away with a win when Halak had his worst playoff game.
If I was the Pens I'd be afraid................................very afraid.
Uh, don't look now but....
Les Habitants have taken this thing to a game 7- as with Washington.
It's hard to see them winning this series, but with a hot goaltender and Montreal continuing to smother shots, it could happen. They continue to play opportunistic offense.
Halak wasn't as sharp last night, but I sure like him in goal over Fleury. Montreal may have gotten away with a win when Halak had his worst playoff game.
If I was the Pens I'd be afraid................................very afraid.
You'd think they'd have the same chance of winning Game 7 in Pittsburgh as they did winning it in Washington. Unfortunately, their chances of doing it a second time are a lot lower, but I agree, Pens fans should be shaking in their boots right now. If Montreal won this series that would make our first round loss a hell of a lot easier to swallow. I could care less what they did after that but for the love of all that isn't dayton, PLEASE give me this. Give me one more superhuman performance Halak. Let me see one more Crosby cry-face to give me something worth reflecting back on with a smile in these playoffs. Please give me a reason to talk smack to Lucho and the other Pens fans when I see them in a couple weeks. I'm a DC sports fan, it's like being a dayton fan, but we actually get it. I deserve this one game.
DC Muskie
05-11-2010, 10:00 AM
Dear eight pound six ounce Baby Jesus...
Now that "Hockeytown" is no longer involved, I suppose the entire season is over.
The sport can't officially be played in other places, can it?
It's always great to hear the boo-hooing from that "major league" town on the Burning River. But I can understand the compensation complex engendered by the geography of being perched on the shallowest of of the great lakes.
Let's see, the choices for getting to a NHL hockey match from Cleveland during the past 100 years are: (A) drive down 71 to Nationwide, where a fine arena is being spoiled by low attendance and bad hockey;(B) shuffle off to Buffalo in the middle of a lake effect snowstorm; (C) suck it up and take the Turnpike in either direction to places where hockey matters.
When seeking to witness actual Stanley Cup events, the choices narrow down to (C).
I know humping on Detroit is a minor olympic sport on this board, but a "hockey fan" from Cleveburgh pizmoaning about Hockeytown is a new high/lowlight in sports town chauvinism.
I know humping on Detroit is a minor olympic sport on this board,
You're kidding, right? Are people not being supportive enough of the Wings for you? Did you honestly just spend a multi-paragraph post bleating about a guy from Cleveland not rooting for the Red Wings? I haven't even heard Pittsburgh fans complain about being "humped on." I was rooting for the Red Wings and have always kind of liked them but every once in awhile a good old squid tosser reminds me of how near-sighted Detroit sports fan can be.
Masterofreality
05-11-2010, 12:01 PM
How pompous and arrogant can anyplace be when it calls itself "Hockeytown"?
A) The sport wasn't invented there.
B) Detroit doesn't have the most Stanley Cups
C) Detroit doesn't even have the second most Stanley Cups
D) Detroit doesn't lead the league in attendance
E) Detroit is named........DETROIT.
Sorry. If any town can call itself "Hockeytown' with any legitimacy it would be Montreal- with 24 Stanley Cups and a 21,000 seat arena.
Jeezuz. Even the arrogant New York Yankees aren't pompous enough to call themselves "Baseballtown."
Hey, I don't necessarily mind the Wings. Guys like Stevie Yzerman who won Cups there are class guys, but c'mon Detroit fan. What a joke. Get off your freaking high horse.
XULucho27
05-11-2010, 04:07 PM
How pompous and arrogant can anyplace be when it calls itself "Hockeytown"?
They truly do think highly of themselves. I'm exposed to it every year since the soon-to-be in laws and the future Mrs. Lucho all hail from Warren (just north of Detroit). I ignore it mostly, this sport is too great to have it spoiled by a couple of wannabe Canadians :D (just kidding).
And yes guys, I am TERRIFIED of Game 7 against the Habs. When discussing the game with a friend and fellow Pens fan he said "I'm glad we get Game 7 at home." I bet that's EXACTLY what all the Craps fans were thinking right before they lost... I'm almost glad I'll be taking a Contracts final and can't watch the game. It will definitely soften the blow if I don't have to suffer through the whole game.
Wow. What a start to this game. Crosby gets a boarding penalty 10 seconds in, another penalty is delayed during their power play, Habs score a soft goal on Fleury and they still get another full 2 mins of power play after! This game is going to be worth watching fellas.
Masterofreality
05-12-2010, 07:54 PM
OMG. What a first period!
Could Pissburgh play any more undisciplined? A boarding on Crosby right off the face that gives the Habs the first chance and then ridiculous unneeded jousting behind the net leaving guys out of position and a giveway second goal. Fluery is a zombie out there.
In the meantime, Montreal stays in their skates, stays in their spots and continues to play opportunistic hockey. We're going to see a Bruins style "5 guy wall" between the blue lines for the rest of this game. If the Habs get one more before the Pens can score..........
....................BOOM goes the DYNAMITE!!
Talk about heads exploding!!!!
X-band '01
05-12-2010, 08:16 PM
4-0 on a shortie. It's time to do the omage for Mellon Arena.
X-band '01
05-12-2010, 08:21 PM
Excusez-moi. Quatre-un Montreal; but les Pingouins.
X-band '01
05-12-2010, 08:27 PM
For those who need the link en Francais (where's our old friend Pierre Dracot?)
RDS feed courtesy of ChannelSurfing.com (http://www.channelsurfing.net/watch-nhl-4.html)
4-2. Now things are starting to get very intriguing.
X-band '01
05-12-2010, 08:36 PM
Pens cashed in on that PP; this is going to be a long 3 minutes to get into the locker room for Montreal.
Masterofreality
05-12-2010, 08:47 PM
Pens were pretty fortunate to get back in the game. Hamlik gets out of the box then immediately breaks his stick and they couldn't clear the zone.
I swear, though. I don't think I've ever seen a hockey club that blocks more shots and passes than Montreal. That 3rd goal was A) The result of a blocked pass and B) Bingo, Bango, Bungo passing. Just a thing of beauty.
Finally Pissburgh was forced to remove the zombie from the net. Fleury was Horrendous....with a capital H.
X-band '01
05-12-2010, 09:20 PM
Dagger.
GuyFawkes38
05-12-2010, 09:23 PM
the first couple periods of the game, montreal was luckly. But now the penguins are receiving some luck.
great game.
X-band '01
05-12-2010, 09:54 PM
And the collapse is now complete. Never has so storied a franchise in any sport looked as Cinderalla-ish as Montreal has this year.
Masterofreality
05-12-2010, 09:58 PM
the first couple periods of the game, montreal was luckly. But now the penguins are receiving some luck.
great game.
And once again, Guy, (pronounced Gee on this thread) is so far off base he's not even in the building.
Montreal lucky? What? How about disciplined and opportunistic? Doesn't hurt to have a goalie who stones the superstar Kid on the doorstep- numerous times. Pittsburgh looked like the 8 seed who made it to Game 7.
Well, PMI you got your wish...and you too DC.
One last thing. Amazing how many Americans are on the alleged "Habitants" roster. Let's call them Les Yanques?
DC Muskie
05-12-2010, 10:26 PM
There is a God. He may be French, but He is good.
X-band '01
05-12-2010, 11:01 PM
There is a God. He may be French
Dayton fans have said that every year since Jimmy Carter.
Snap.
Masterofreality
05-13-2010, 12:16 PM
Just to put an end to this "HockeyTown" nonsense.
Montreal sold out their building last night. Sold out for a game that wasn't even in Montreal and for a game that wasn't a Stanley Cup Final. 21,000 plus to watch a game on a scoreboard screen!
In fact, they had more people in their building than Pittsburgh had where the game was actually being played.
Sorry, Detroit. Montreal is the only potentially legitimate place that may be able to call itself "HockeyTown."
SixFig
05-13-2010, 12:23 PM
Somewhere Gary Bettman is crying in his beer as the great Crosby and Ovechkin are both sent packing.
It has been a great playoffs...far better than the NBA for sure. Sadly, however, it will be lucky to draw 1/4 of the ratings. I hope casual fans tune in for the conference finals because I expect a couple of classics.
XULucho27
05-13-2010, 03:22 PM
Still. So. Pissed.
Again, I'm glad I had a final and couldn't watch that debacle.
Still. So. Pissed.
Again, I'm glad I had a final and couldn't watch that debacle.
I'm not going to rub it in next weekend, but you have to admit that there is some delicious irony when a certain mutual Pittsburgh-native friend of ours roots for the Candian national team in the Olympics, citing the reason that "they would actually appreciate it up there" (even though we both know the real reason) only to have his team lose to the most appreciative Candian hockey fanbase in the world. Can't have your cake and eat it too, our friend should be happy for his northern neighbors because they have more die-hards than the cities of Pittsburgh and Washington combined. Just sayin...
XU 17
05-14-2010, 12:41 AM
While hating it, I respect what Detroit has accomplished over the past decade. For years the UC was half filled with Detroit fans. Made the D-E-T-R-O-I-T---S-U-C-K-S chant a little hallow. HawkeyTown is once again alive and well!!
Masterofreality
05-14-2010, 08:09 AM
While hating it, I respect what Detroit has accomplished over the past decade. For years the UC was half filled with Detroit fans. Made the D-E-T-R-O-I-T---S-U-C-K-S chant a little hallow. HawkeyTown is once again alive and well!!
The difference would be that if Montreal would have had the same recent success, the entire UC would have been filled with Habs fans.
X-band '01
05-14-2010, 10:14 PM
And now Philly has completed their comeback from an 0-3 hole; they get Montreal next.
I can't bring myself to hate on Boston teams. The Celtics were the least disagreeable dynasty of my long sports fandom. On top of that, I generally hate to see anyone blow a 3-0 series advantage, it's a slow cruel fate.
I can't believe the Sharks-Blackhawks opener went 1-0. That would have seemed less probable than low scoring in the Sharks-Wings series. Somethin gotta give.
Habs now my faves to hoist the cup.
I can't bring myself to hate on Boston teams. The Celtics were the least disagreeable dynasty of my long sports fandom. On top of that, I generally hate to see anyone blow a 3-0 series advantage, it's a slow cruel fate.
I can't believe the Sharks-Blackhawks opener went 1-0. That would have seemed less probable than low scoring in the Sharks-Wings series. Somethin gotta give.
Habs now my faves to hoist the cup.
The Hawks won 2-1 actually, but yea, I expect more scoring on average in the rest of the games. Boston teams are pretty damn easy to hate. If you're a Boston sports fan my age or even much younger, you've enjoyed a decade of 3 Super Bowl wins and 1 runner up, 2 World Series, an NBA title (and maybe another shot this year), and Bruins teams that at least make the playoffs. You can hate seeing anyone blow a 3-0 lead I suppose, but these are mostly the same fans who care much more about the Sox, who enjoyed the same comeback against their hated rivals (after they all wrote their team off and called them a bunch of chokers.) I won't shed any tears for them.
I'm also rooting for the Candiens. I can't stand anything Philly other than the cheesesteaks. Chicago fans didn't know they had a team until last year. I don't have any issues with San Jose, but at this point I'd feel better that the 8 seed that knocked off my team was at least on their way to the top, although it didn't make me feel any better last year since it was the miserable Pens who won.
How pompous and arrogant can anyplace be when it calls itself "Hockeytown"?
A) The sport wasn't invented there.
B) Detroit doesn't have the most Stanley Cups
C) Detroit doesn't even have the second most Stanley Cups
D) Detroit doesn't lead the league in attendance
E) Detroit is named........DETROIT.
Sorry. If any town can call itself "Hockeytown' with any legitimacy it would be Montreal- with 24 Stanley Cups and a 21,000 seat arena.
Jeezuz. Even the arrogant New York Yankees aren't pompous enough to call themselves "Baseballtown."
Hey, I don't necessarily mind the Wings. Guys like Stevie Yzerman who won Cups there are class guys, but c'mon Detroit fan. What a joke. Get off your freaking high horse.
Puleeze, Mr. Reality. Assuming you are a native of that state that laughably markets its (alleged) major public educational institution "THE Ohio State university" (for those who can't seem to distinguish it from plain old Ohio University), High Horse insinuations are too strong by half. No one calls it "THE Hockeytown". It's a strawdog, Cleveburgh, puck-envy song you sing, sir. Surely your many talents have something more substantive outrages to right?
Quick, largest American city with no professional sports championships since MOR was born?
Masterofreality
05-21-2010, 10:37 PM
Puleeze, Mr. Reality. Assuming you are a native of that state that laughably markets its (alleged) major public educational institution "THE Ohio State university" (for those who can't seem to distinguish it from plain old Ohio University), High Horse insinuations are too strong by half. No one calls it "THE Hockeytown". It's a strawdog, Cleveburgh, puck-envy song you sing, sir. Surely your many talents have something more substantive outrages to right?
Quick, largest American city with no professional sports championships since MOR was born?
Well, no one should ever "assume" anything. As we all know, if one breaks down "assume" it makes an "ass (of) u (to) me." How many things are wrong with the Naked Emp's assertions above?
A) I was born in Louisville, KY. and am a proud native of the state of Kentucky.
B) I went to XAVIER University.
C) There are at least 8 other public Universities in Ohio that ARE NOT named Ohio State.
D) Those who happen to live in Ohio and did NOT attend OSU think that THE OSU is pretentious has hell and want their punk asses to lose too. But even Ohio State doesn't call itself "FootballTown" as if it was the be all and end all of the sport.
E) How can anyone ANYWHERE be envious of anything that has to do with burned out, crack-infested, Devil's Night-arsoned Detroit?
F) Cleveland has won championships in my lifetime, in fact when I was a teenager, albeit a while ago.
So, Emp. You have succeeded in fully displaying your bare ass in all of its ugliness. Go ahead and remain on your arrogant, posing pretense of calling your decrepit, slum-ridden hellhole "Hockeytown" while any city in Canada, especially Montreal, deserves the title much more.
Back to the playoffs and speaking of Montreal, I fully expect a 2-2 series going back to Philadelphia after this weekend. I'd love to see a Montreal/San Jose (Joe Thornton) Stanley Cup Final.
waggy
05-22-2010, 12:40 AM
Maybe my dead weight on the Sharks bandwagon is the problem.. Poor bastards haven't won since I jumped on.
Blueblob4life
05-22-2010, 03:14 AM
Maybe my dead weight on the Sharks bandwagon is the problem.. Poor bastards haven't won since I jumped on.
you hopped on the wrong one. my Blackhawks, yes MINE because I'm from Chicago, are running away with that series. you can convert if you'd like, it'd be well worth it.
X-band '01
05-23-2010, 05:55 PM
1 ticket is now punched for the Stanley Cup - Chicago has to be a heavy favorite against either Philly or Montreal.
waggy
05-23-2010, 09:41 PM
you hopped on the wrong one. my Blackhawks, yes MINE because I'm from Chicago, are running away with that series. you can convert if you'd like, it'd be well worth it.
I will be rooting for the Blackhawks the rest of the way. Good luck.
Hossa is now playing in his third consecutive Stanley Cup final. He has yet to get his name on the trophy.
Charlatan Carpet-Bagger? Or simply irrelevant this time, Blackhawks have too many guns?
Discuss.
E) How can anyone ANYWHERE be envious of anything that has to do with burned out, crack-infested, Devil's Night-arsoned Detroit?
F) Cleveland has won championships in my lifetime, in fact when I was a teenager, albeit a while ago.
Answer key: (E) Any putative Cuyahoga resident who was a true pro sports fan.
To wit:
All time Major sport championships: Detroit 21 (sixth overall), Cleveland 7.
Last major sports championship in Cleveland: 1964 (longest active city drought US-wide.)
Major championships in Detroit since 1964: Hockey 3, Baseball 2, Basketball 2. Number of teams running away in the dead of night: Cleveland 1, Detroit 0.
Linda Bruno is better at picking winners than Cleveland. I've heard of the Colavito Curse, but there are some strange coincidences goin on. Still, one has to respect a man who can use "albeit" and high horse in the same post.
wkrq59
05-25-2010, 12:37 AM
If someone had told me when the current Stanley Cup playoffs began that Chicago and Philadelphia would meet in the finals for the cup, I would have suggested counseling, now.
But they are and they did. Chicago's road has not been as tough as Philadelphia's but the Hawks did have to beat talented teams in Vancouver and San Jose.
Philly on the other hand had to beat No.8 seed Montreal who upset Washington and then Pittsburgh. And the Bruins were no walk in the park, either.
These finals will probably go seven games with Chicago winning the cup. I think the Blackhawks have the better goaltending and defense and are more diversified on offense. Still, the Flyers have damned good talent and their goaltender is no slouch. Both goalies are young and I think the series will come down to which team gets the better net minding.
I love hockey. Finish the championship game, take a two week vacation, and start the season all over again.
xu95
Masterofreality
05-25-2010, 09:06 AM
One could argue that there are two mediocre teams that made the final because the road got cleared of the more talented teams by goaltenders who stoned the opposition. At least they'll be evenly matched.
Halak's poor play outside of the crease finally came back to haunt him last night. With a one goal lead and a man advantage he decides to skate 20 feet out of the net, and almost gift wraps a Philly goal. Great hustle play by Richards, but another horriffic play away from net by Halak and got Philly right back in the game.
Hossa? You gotta say that he's anything but a Charlatan. Maybe he's the luckiest SOB in the world, but statistically he's giving them something. He had the best Plus/Minus number in the regular season. He gave them 51 points with a 24 +/-. In the playoffs, he's given them 11 points with an 8 +/-. For a 31 year old guy, he's contributing. He had a better plus minus than Patrick Kane, for gawds sake. That's saying sumpthin'.
Hossa? You gotta say that he's anything but a Charlatan. Maybe he's the luckiest SOB in the world, but statistically he's giving them something. He had the best Plus/Minus number in the regular season. He gave them 51 points with a 24 +/-. In the playoffs, he's given them 11 points with an 8 +/-. For a 31 year old guy, he's contributing. He had a better plus minus than Patrick Kane, for gawds sake. That's saying sumpthin'.
I think +/- is an absurdly overrated individual stat. If anything, it's more of an indirect tribute to an entire team. Hell, the top +/- in the whole league during the regular season belonged to Jeff Shultz, a tall goofy defenseman for the Caps who would take the word "awkward" as a compliment. The top 4 or 5 leaders in the +/- this year were all Capitals. Are we really supposed to think that one team had the 4 or 5 top players in terms of being the best at being on the ice for more happy times than bad ones? It sounds kind of ridiculous.
What it comes down to, to me, is that Hossa is overpriced every year. He was tied for 34th in points per game. That's pretty good, but for an alleged top 10 player on a top 3 team, it's not something I'd pay that kind of money for. I don't think there's anything to the fact that the teams he's gone to have advanced to the finals and lost, but I do think there's something to the fact that he would leave a contender after one year to go to another contender, suffer the same fate, and then leave again to another contender. The guy is just a little much for me and I'd be significantly unhappy if my team signed him, but luckily he's too expensive for us to worry about.
As far as Philly having the easier road than Chicago, I have to disagree, Q. The Flyers beat a New Jersey team that decided before the playoffs even started that they wanted the golf season to come early this year, got to avoid the President's Trophy champs who would have been coming in with at least the same momentum, pulled off an epic comeback, but did so against a team with a elementary offense and a special nag for blowing it, then got a much different Habs team than the one of the first two rounds (you know, the one that finished tied for the 20th best record in hockey.) Philly played great now, but let's compare them to the Hawks, who beat a 7th seed Nashville team who had more wins than the 3-seeded Sabres, then an extremely explosive Canucks team, then a top-seeded Sharks who were probably playing their best playoff hockey in franchise history until they got completely swept. There hasn't been a team nearly as impressive as Chicago these playoffs, I mean not even close, and they do it on both ends AND in net. No road is easy to get to the finals, but doing what they did in the west trounces what Philly did in the East (Philly beating a 2, 6, and 8) any day of the week to me.
The only thing that is for sure this year: The NHL playoffs > NBA playoffs, yet again. I actually thought this may have been the year things were different too.
XULucho27
05-25-2010, 06:37 PM
I'm only rooting for Byfuglien, my favorite non-Penguin NHL player. Aside from that, I couldn't care less. I HATE Philly, and Hawks fans here in Chicago get on my nerves (although I do like the team).
Hawks over Cryers in 5.
X-band '01
05-29-2010, 09:04 PM
Is our esteemed president in the house for tonight's Cup opener? ESPN soils themselves every time he has a take on the NBA Playoffs, yet we don't hear a peep out of Barry when the hometown Blackhawks are in the Stanley Cup Finals?
XU 17
05-30-2010, 02:21 PM
Don't need B O'B or John Cusak. Game one couldn't have been farther from what I expected...for both teams. Richards, Kane & Toews will get their points. Hossa was really strong taking the puck in deep. Big game Monday.
Masterofreality
05-31-2010, 06:47 PM
I know that we had a short debate about Hossa, but.....
Anyone notice that wherever Chris Pronger goes, the team that he goes to gets better and wins?
That guy is like a single-man wall on defense. Not a bad slapper either.
XU 17
05-31-2010, 10:14 PM
Pronger is making it real hard on the Kane/Toews/Buff line. He's really taken away the front of the net and shut this line down, so far. Don't like him, but would love him on my team....if that makes sense.
GuyFawkes38
06-01-2010, 05:12 AM
Chicago has certainly been getting a lot of lucky breaks.
Someone has sold him on the idea of forechecking, something that he was not doing for Detroit or Pittsburgh in previous finals. I know the plus/minus stat is anathema to some, but he's a well-earned plus 11, making his teammates better.
I am still mystified as to why he can't score more in the playoffs after being such a force in regular season play, but Stanley Cup competition changes things in a way that doesn't translate into other playoff sports.
Masterofreality
06-02-2010, 05:09 PM
Ok, I think this is hilarious.
Chris Pronger is pissing off the Blackhawks by stealing the game pucks after the horn sounds. By doing that, he's denying any of the Hawks players from having a souvenier if they happen to win the Cup. He knows exactly what he is doing too- trying to get in the heads of the Hawks.
When asked what he did with the pucks, and he took both of them, he said that he "threw them in the garbage, because that is where they belong."
The Canadian press is having a field day with this. Especially those in Edmonton who think that he's the biggest a-hole of all time.
What the Puck?? (http://sports.nationalpost.com/2010/06/01/chris-pronger-star-puck-stealer-jerk/)
Xavier
06-03-2010, 02:09 AM
What a game tonight. I want Philly to win-tonight was a must win. After Chicago's 3rd goal it was huge to get a goal right away and tie it up.
One question- In OT when Philly thought they scored and the horn went off-I didnt hear a whistle. (Play continues just like it did when this happened earlier in the game) Someone did fire the puck in the net a few seconds after...shouldnt that have been a goal? Maybe I didnt hear the whistle but if there was no whistle play should of continued and game should have been over regardless if the first one went in or not-right? ---Granted that would of been a terrible way to end the game.
Kahns Krazy
06-03-2010, 10:54 AM
I had the exact same thought. The horn went off before the puck went in the goal. I'm guessing that counts as a whistle, but I'm not sure. I never heard a whistle either.
That was a great game. I'm pulling for Chicago, but not by a lot. I will take 4 more overtime games. With the exception of when my teams are in a game, there is nothing I like more in any sport than overtime in a Stanley Cup game.
ChicagoX
06-03-2010, 12:44 PM
I thought from the very beginning that the Hawks would win in five and game three would be the only game the Flyers would win. Philly played outstanding last night and still had to go to overtime to win the game. This series is over on Sunday night.
Xavier
06-03-2010, 01:34 PM
I thought from the very beginning that the Hawks would win in five and game three would be the only game the Flyers would win. Philly played outstanding last night and still had to go to overtime to win the game. This series is over on Sunday night.
I actually think Philly has outplayed Chicago. That is either A) Good for Chicago..being outplayed and up 2-1. or B) If this continues Philly could come back and win it. I wanted Philly to win but id trade that for a game 7 easily.
I also enjoyed most of a great hockey game last night..... I had to drive home after power went out in most of Worthington from the lightning storm.
Pronger is a douchebag, but my god has he gotten into Byfuglien's head. X17 had already commented, but the stat I heard last night is amazing, Prong had covered 26 of 29 Byfug shifts? Not since Eddie Shack was assigned to Howe. There was some commentary that he was gassed at the end of last night's game, so let's see if the bullyboy can keep it up for seven games.
Masterofreality
06-05-2010, 05:25 PM
I thought from the very beginning that the Hawks would win in five and game three would be the only game the Flyers would win. Philly played outstanding last night and still had to go to overtime to win the game. This series is over on Sunday night.
Uh, no.
Philly comes back to tie the series.
The Flyers have made a concentrated effort to go high on Niemi in the last two games and it's working. Pronger continues to bedevil Byfuglien and that guy can't get anything going. Kane has one goal in the whole series.
That five game prediction is toast. Get ready for a 7 game series.
GuyFawkes38
06-07-2010, 01:00 AM
So to sum up the series, for the first couple games chicago received a lot of breaks. But then, for the next 2 games, luck swung to the flyers. Now it seems like it's back in Chicago's corner.
SixFig
06-07-2010, 01:41 AM
So to sum up the series, for the first couple games chicago received a lot of breaks. But then, for the next 2 games, luck swung to the flyers. Now it seems like it's back in Chicago's corner.
Man you are pretty hung up on the concept of luck in hockey aren't you?
I don't see the Flyers letting the Blackhawks lift the cup on Philly ice, so it goes seven. Pronger may recuperate, but he looked gassed in the last game, and Buff was looking more at ease.
Backyard Champ
06-09-2010, 03:37 PM
Big game tonight. I'm cheering for flyers, because there really would be nothing sweeter then a game 7 stanley cup final. If the flyers can manage to win tonight, the only thing I'm cheering for in game 7 would be an overtime.
Masterofreality
06-09-2010, 08:51 PM
1-1 after one. The way the game started, Philly has to be happy to be tied right now.
GuyFawkes38
06-09-2010, 08:56 PM
Prediction time: whichever team gets the most breaks for the remainder of the game will win.
Masterofreality
06-09-2010, 11:13 PM
OMG. Has there ever been a worse goal that won a Stanley Cup. Bad angle, along the ice and through the 5 hole. How did Leighton let that puck through?
Probably fitting that the best player for his team, Kane, scored the goal.
And Mr. Hossa finally gets his name on the Cup.
X-band '01
06-09-2010, 11:21 PM
Your 2010 Stanley Cup Champions (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wchH7xL4tdE&feature=related)
Wonder if our esteemed President will now say he's been a lifelong Blackhawks fan? He seems to weigh in on every sport except hockey.
Backyard Champ
06-09-2010, 11:40 PM
Did every goal tonight go five hole for the blackhawks?
I don't really care it wasn't a great goal. I do love that only Kane and maybe two other blackhawks knew that it went in. Has to be a great feeling scoring the stanley cup winning goal in overtime, and you almost the only one in the whole place who knew it went in. There is no trophy better in sports, and I can't help but enjoy watching the players lift up the cup for the first time and kiss it.
Also, it was cool to see Jeremy Roenick so emotional. "For the kid who was crying after game 4 in 92 in chicago stadium, this is for you..hope you have a big smile on your face." Just a great moment in my opinion.
XU 17
06-10-2010, 12:28 AM
Winning goal reminded me of Crosbys Olympic goal....kind of a soft/awkward shot that found the net.
GuyFawkes38
06-10-2010, 01:36 AM
Winning goal reminded me of Crosbys Olympic goal....kind of a soft/awkward shot that found the net.
ultimately, it was a lucky shot.
I'm going to miss hockey and providing my expert commentary here on XH.
SixFig
06-10-2010, 03:40 AM
ultimately, it was a lucky shot.
I'm going to miss hockey and providing my expert commentary here on XH.
Ironically that WAS a lucky shot. Kane said himself he was more hoping for a put back from one of his teammates.
No more lucky than a swinging bunt hit in baseball, any fumble in football, or an awkward long rebound in basketball. The best teams give themselves the most chances to take advantage of the lucky break. That's why the Blackhawks, who got the most shots, correspondingly got the most "lucky shots".
Kahns Krazy
06-10-2010, 11:03 AM
That was not a "soft" shot. It was hard enough to wedge the puck under the pad at the edge of the net. It was also right on the ice, which is extremely unusual. It's hard to get any velocity on a puck and keep it on the ice.
The third period of that game was nuts. I say it every year. The Stanley cup is my favorite championship in all of sports.
One of the most satisfying final series in years for me. Mild villain issues (Pronger) totally overcome by exciting, end to end action and skill.
Yes, Mr Obvious....er,Guy..... Hockey is both a game of skill and a game of luck, but luck in the sense that preparation meets opportunity.
MOR, you still think the Philly fans chanting for their team after losing is a load of baloney? I'm not sure Ive heard that from any losing hockey fans, even Les Habs, your Hockeytown choice. I thought it showed some real deep feelings for the team.
MD Muskie
06-10-2010, 04:26 PM
Did every goal tonight go five hole for the blackhawks?
I don't really care it wasn't a great goal. I do love that only Kane and maybe two other blackhawks knew that it went in. Has to be a great feeling scoring the stanley cup winning goal in overtime, and you almost the only one in the whole place who knew it went in. There is no trophy better in sports, and I can't help but enjoy watching the players lift up the cup for the first time and kiss it.
Also, it was cool to see Jeremy Roenick so emotional. "For the kid who was crying after game 4 in 92 in chicago stadium, this is for you..hope you have a big smile on your face." Just a great moment in my opinion.
Milbury showed once again why he is a grade A A-hole. I honestly thought that Roenick was going to punch him. I for one was glad to see Roenick get all teary-eyed, in this day and age of athletes and big time money, he still showed that his heart lies with the Blackhawks, his first team. Congrats to the best jersey in hockey. Now i just need my Capitals to win it soon.
Masterofreality
06-11-2010, 10:42 AM
MOR, you still think the Philly fans chanting for their team after losing is a load of baloney? I'm not sure Ive heard that from any losing hockey fans, even Les Habs, your Hockeytown choice. I thought it showed some real deep feelings for the team.
Don't know where I ever said that fans chanting for a team after they lose is a load of baloney. I do remember saying that if I was a Washington Caps fan, I wouldn't have cheered them after they lost because I thought that Washington's playoff effort was crap. If your team gives it their all and still loses, a cheer for the effort and a "thank you" for the great season is appropriate.
I did hear the fans chanting "Let's Go Flyers" but it was still when there seemed to be confusion if there really was a goal. I also remember Philly fan doing some booing as the Blackhawks celebrated on the ice. Booing a Stanley Cup champion is a load of baloney.
Kahns Krazy
06-11-2010, 12:14 PM
Booing a Stanley Cup champion is a load of baloney.
I agree, but I think it would be hard for me not to boo a little if my team got beaten on our home ice. I'd like to say I wouldn't be a booer, but I'm pretty sure with a few drinks in me...
MD Muskie
06-11-2010, 01:12 PM
Booing a Stanley Cup champion is a load of baloney.
Its going to happen a lot when the cup is won by the oppenent on your teams home ice. You have loyalty to them so of course part of you wants to boo, especially if beer has been consumed. Philly just has more a reputation for it because in general their fans are not the most well-liked in sports.
I clearly heard the crowd chanting either "Phil-ly Fly-ers" or "Phil-delfya Fly-ers" while the team was waiting for the handshake...and the series was clearly lost.
Washington played badly against the Flyers, but the judgment that they didnt give it their all as a team seems harsh.
Philly fans are another breed, beer or not. They boo their own team a lot, which makes the supportive chanting somewhat surprising.
It was such a great series, I hate to hear bad loser booing.
wkrq59
06-12-2010, 12:58 AM
First, I was sure the Philly fans were booing Gary Bettman both when he presented the Conn Smythe Trophy to Jonathan Toes (sp) and the Stanley Cup. BTW Niemi the goalie should have won the Smythe.
I felt sorry n a way for the Philly goalie whose feet are a problem. Every goal, including the winner was through 5-hole between his legs It's fortunate that goal wasn't a millemeter higher or the puck might not have stayed in the net. It was amazing how hard that shot was and how it stuck under the padding. BTW, Leighton, the Philly goalie is apparently gone. His GM won't commit to him for next year.
All and all it was a helluva Stanley Cup playoffs. OPne for the history buffs
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