The Cap comeback should be renamed Nicklas Backstrom Day because he absolutely saved his team from a dire situation. It only took 29 seconds for the wonderful franchise center to end it by using a Hab defenseman as a screen and then wiring a perfect laser upstairs past Jaroslav Halak. It was his third of the day, becoming the seventh Washington Capital to record a playoff hat trick. The Swede is genius. It maybe nuts to say but the best two centers may represent Sweden. Though Sid The Kid makes a great argument. He absolutely saved his Pens last night from similar circumstances.
Never has the first week of the playoffs ever been so fun. Every game is unpredictable. Canucks and Kings facing off in Vancity now.
Covering the Rangers, Devils, Islanders and Sabres five years running along with the rest of the puckers!
BONY
Battle Of New York
Showing posts with label Game Update. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Game Update. Show all posts
Saturday, April 17, 2010
Caps-Habs II going to sudden death
If you haven't seen this Caps-Habs II, boy have you missed a lot. What a game they're seeing on Versus at nervous Verizon where Alex Ovechkin finally awoke netting a goal and three helpers just to get his team into sudden death. Yes. The Scott Gomez-Brian Gionta Habs once led 4-1 before the Caps furiously rallied in a chaotic third that featured a bit of everything. Hell. Tom Poti even beat up Gomez in a fight that only fired up the desperate home club and its Rock The Red supporters some more. Despite blowing a three-goal lead with Nicklas Backstrom tying it, the Habs went ahead once more off a dreadful Mike Green turnover that led to a pretty two-on-one give-and-go with Tomas "Jagr" Plekanec finishing off Mike Cammalleri's backdoor set up. It would've made Gene Hackman proud from Hoosiers.
It looked like Montreal would hang on but unflappable WJC hero John Carlson surprised Jaroslav Halak with a brilliant rush and wrist shot low glove miraculously tying it 5-5 at 18:39. The poise this kid's shown teaming with Poti to be by far the Caps' best on an otherwise dreadful blueline is to die for. He also faked shot and then Halak let up a rebound for Ovie's first of the postseason that made it 4-3. Amazing stuff that's impressed strong Versus NYI/NYR duo Sam Rosen and Billy Jaffe. While Green has been a goat proving that he shouldn't win the Norris, it's been the 20 year-old Carlson- a 2008 first round pick selected 27th overall that's stepped up.
Sudden death will be starting shortly. Will the Caps have a hero or will the league's best regular season team be in a huge hole to eighth Montreal with it shifting to the Bell Centre? Fire up OT!
It looked like Montreal would hang on but unflappable WJC hero John Carlson surprised Jaroslav Halak with a brilliant rush and wrist shot low glove miraculously tying it 5-5 at 18:39. The poise this kid's shown teaming with Poti to be by far the Caps' best on an otherwise dreadful blueline is to die for. He also faked shot and then Halak let up a rebound for Ovie's first of the postseason that made it 4-3. Amazing stuff that's impressed strong Versus NYI/NYR duo Sam Rosen and Billy Jaffe. While Green has been a goat proving that he shouldn't win the Norris, it's been the 20 year-old Carlson- a 2008 first round pick selected 27th overall that's stepped up.
Sudden death will be starting shortly. Will the Caps have a hero or will the league's best regular season team be in a huge hole to eighth Montreal with it shifting to the Bell Centre? Fire up OT!
Friday, April 2, 2010
Super first real statement
Super and this team don't usually go hand in hand. But you have to tip your cap at what the Rangers were able to do against an invisible opponent in Tampa. At least for 20 minutes, they thoroughly dominated the Lightning, outscoring them 4-zip.
The four-goal barrage was started by constant Brandon Prust who's quickly evolving into a fan favorite. Just his play alone merits the trade with Calgary a success. Since Tort moved Artem Anisimov to the fourth line with Prust and Jody Shelley, who also has played well lately suddenly the Ranger fourth line is effective. On the game's opening tally, a big hit by Shelley led to a turnover in the corner and then Prust came out with the puck and stuffed home his own rebound past Mike Smith to set the tone. Just 25 seconds later, ever improving Marc Staal lit the lamp again for two nil. With a punchless Tampa club going through the motions, former Bolt Vinny Prospal notched his 19th when his backhand went off a Tampa defenseman and in. The exclamation point on the statement period was Brandon Dubinsky scoring a power play goal when his low shot caromed off poor Kurt Foster who was too late with his stick sealing Dubi's career best 19th.
Amazingly, the Rangers only led in shots 7-6 but had the puck plenty and controlled the tempo. Tort also deployed Staal and Dan Girardi against the dangerous scoring line of Martin St. Louis, Steven Stamkos and Steve Downie. Thus far, the trio is without a shot all minuses. Can our club keep it up or will their be a mental lapse? One thing's for sure. Henrik Lundqvist could've spent the first at a beach. We'll see if it continues.
In one game they have an eye on, the Canadiens lead the Flyers 1-0 late in the second. What the Blueshirts hope for is one team wins in regulation, preventing the dreaded three-point game. Second underway. More later!
The four-goal barrage was started by constant Brandon Prust who's quickly evolving into a fan favorite. Just his play alone merits the trade with Calgary a success. Since Tort moved Artem Anisimov to the fourth line with Prust and Jody Shelley, who also has played well lately suddenly the Ranger fourth line is effective. On the game's opening tally, a big hit by Shelley led to a turnover in the corner and then Prust came out with the puck and stuffed home his own rebound past Mike Smith to set the tone. Just 25 seconds later, ever improving Marc Staal lit the lamp again for two nil. With a punchless Tampa club going through the motions, former Bolt Vinny Prospal notched his 19th when his backhand went off a Tampa defenseman and in. The exclamation point on the statement period was Brandon Dubinsky scoring a power play goal when his low shot caromed off poor Kurt Foster who was too late with his stick sealing Dubi's career best 19th.
Amazingly, the Rangers only led in shots 7-6 but had the puck plenty and controlled the tempo. Tort also deployed Staal and Dan Girardi against the dangerous scoring line of Martin St. Louis, Steven Stamkos and Steve Downie. Thus far, the trio is without a shot all minuses. Can our club keep it up or will their be a mental lapse? One thing's for sure. Henrik Lundqvist could've spent the first at a beach. We'll see if it continues.
In one game they have an eye on, the Canadiens lead the Flyers 1-0 late in the second. What the Blueshirts hope for is one team wins in regulation, preventing the dreaded three-point game. Second underway. More later!
Tuesday, March 30, 2010
Sound The Alarms
Apparently, the New York Rangers forgot to set the alarm clock. I warned that the Islanders would be hell bent on exacting revenge for last week's no-show. They've not even bothered to show. It's 2-0 thus far with undisciplined play- I mean you Wade "Stinking" Redden! Unsteady netminding. Yep. Henrik Lundqvist somehow gave up a clunker to Blake Comeau after replays showed that he probably should've had Mark Streit's power play goal. No push back. Lost battles. It's just embarrassing. Ranger Nation is disgraced by this.
Again, why should we have expected anything less from these jokers? FRAUDS!
Sunday, March 21, 2010
Did someone say important?
FIFTEEN. That's the total number of shots the Rangers have gotten on Tuukka Rask through two periods in the "biggest game of the season versus Boston. In a game they trail 1-zip after turning immortal Andrew Ference into Gretzky, that included a four-minute power play that had Zdeno Chara off for an errant stick on countryman Marian Gaborik. How many shots do you think they got? Zero.
Embarrassing. Humiliating. Disgraceful. Lackluster. Passionless. Pointless. That's how to describe the joke Ranger hockey has become. Olli Jokinen. You were acquired to boost our offense. Not to demonstrate why you're on your fourth team in less than two years. That penalty was exactly what Pierre McGuire termed, "Selfish." At least Chris Higgins tried.
In a game where Henrik Lundqvist has given you every chance stoning Daniel Paille on a penalty shot, they've come up with nothing. Why is it going to change in the third? This is what they are.
Embarrassing. Humiliating. Disgraceful. Lackluster. Passionless. Pointless. That's how to describe the joke Ranger hockey has become. Olli Jokinen. You were acquired to boost our offense. Not to demonstrate why you're on your fourth team in less than two years. That penalty was exactly what Pierre McGuire termed, "Selfish." At least Chris Higgins tried.
In a game where Henrik Lundqvist has given you every chance stoning Daniel Paille on a penalty shot, they've come up with nothing. Why is it going to change in the third? This is what they are.
Wednesday, March 17, 2010
Devs chase Fleury again
There's no stopping the Devils. Luck of the Irish not required to hand a beat down of what's looking more and more like defending chumps. Patrik Elias made it 3-1 when he stole a Jordan Leopold blind backhand pass and then beat Marc-Andre Fleury for a shorthanded goal. Another Pens' turnover that may as well have been from a bakery. Funny but moments earlier Fleury flat out robbed Travis Zajac with a sprawling glove save that even Chico Resch had to admit was great. Oh wait. He thinks every save is great. :P
The Elias shorty seemed to unnerve the Pens, who looked rattled. Turnover after turnover proceeded until Zach Parise netted team-leading No.33 by being allowed to swat in a rebound while Mark Eaton stood and watched. Not shockingly, it chased a furious Fleury, who MSG-Plus' cameras caught breaking slamming his goal stick against the wall.
Since when did Pittsburgh morph into the Rangers? Apparently, the sight of the Devils turns them into pumpkins. If this were a prize fight, it would've been stopped in Round Two. The play of the Penguins in this one is flat out embarrassing. It's like they've never played the game before. Pretty sad for a Sidney Crosby led team that's got an impressive resume, including two consecutive trips to the Finals, winning the franchise's third championship (first since '92) by dethroning Detroit.
Much of the credit goes to the Devils, who just look very focused with Paul Martin back on the blueline. He really has looked great and that bodes extremely well for Jacques Lemaire's club. The Devs are clicking on all cylinders, playing air tight D while pouncing on Pittsburgh mistakes. The score could very well be 8-1 after two periods. That's how dominant they've been. Brent Johnson came in and had to make two great stops from in tight, including a sparkling glove on Ilya Kovalchuk to keep the deficit at three. The Devs' fourth line continues to play well with Rod Pelley doing solid work. Remember when NJ fans were all over Rob Niedermayer? He's looked real good since key ingredient David Clarkson returned.
There's not one Devil you could say anything negative about. Thus far, it's like Manny Pacquiao's performance versus Joshua Clottey. While Marty's done the job again turning aside 15 of 16 (5-5 in 2nd), Fleury's ugly line which really wasn't his fault was four allowed on 13 shots. He's permitted three-or-more in all five starts with tonight's four raising his GAA to 4.52 and a dismal .838 save percentage. Yikes. In case you're wondering, Johnson made his only start on 12/30/09 acquitting himself well by stopping 31 of 32 in a 2-0 shutout loss. He also relieved Fleury in an ugly 12/21 4-0 loss, turning aside all 14 shots. Counting the two he stopped so far, that's quite a difference.
The big question becomes if Dan Bylsma's team sees the Devils in the second or third round, would he consider going with Johnson? It seems illogical. But based on how poorly the Pens have played in front of Fleury, it actually might be something he considers.
The Elias shorty seemed to unnerve the Pens, who looked rattled. Turnover after turnover proceeded until Zach Parise netted team-leading No.33 by being allowed to swat in a rebound while Mark Eaton stood and watched. Not shockingly, it chased a furious Fleury, who MSG-Plus' cameras caught breaking slamming his goal stick against the wall.
Since when did Pittsburgh morph into the Rangers? Apparently, the sight of the Devils turns them into pumpkins. If this were a prize fight, it would've been stopped in Round Two. The play of the Penguins in this one is flat out embarrassing. It's like they've never played the game before. Pretty sad for a Sidney Crosby led team that's got an impressive resume, including two consecutive trips to the Finals, winning the franchise's third championship (first since '92) by dethroning Detroit.
Much of the credit goes to the Devils, who just look very focused with Paul Martin back on the blueline. He really has looked great and that bodes extremely well for Jacques Lemaire's club. The Devs are clicking on all cylinders, playing air tight D while pouncing on Pittsburgh mistakes. The score could very well be 8-1 after two periods. That's how dominant they've been. Brent Johnson came in and had to make two great stops from in tight, including a sparkling glove on Ilya Kovalchuk to keep the deficit at three. The Devs' fourth line continues to play well with Rod Pelley doing solid work. Remember when NJ fans were all over Rob Niedermayer? He's looked real good since key ingredient David Clarkson returned.
There's not one Devil you could say anything negative about. Thus far, it's like Manny Pacquiao's performance versus Joshua Clottey. While Marty's done the job again turning aside 15 of 16 (5-5 in 2nd), Fleury's ugly line which really wasn't his fault was four allowed on 13 shots. He's permitted three-or-more in all five starts with tonight's four raising his GAA to 4.52 and a dismal .838 save percentage. Yikes. In case you're wondering, Johnson made his only start on 12/30/09 acquitting himself well by stopping 31 of 32 in a 2-0 shutout loss. He also relieved Fleury in an ugly 12/21 4-0 loss, turning aside all 14 shots. Counting the two he stopped so far, that's quite a difference.
The big question becomes if Dan Bylsma's team sees the Devils in the second or third round, would he consider going with Johnson? It seems illogical. But based on how poorly the Pens have played in front of Fleury, it actually might be something he considers.
1st Period Thoughts: Pens-NJD
Well, if it wasn't obvious already, it should be. The Devils are in the Penguins' heads. After trailing on an early Chris Kunitz goal, the more traditional red and green guys honoring the past on St. Patty's Day responded like good teams do, getting the next two.
Both off identical sloppy turnovers forced by Jacques Lemaire's trap which has given Pitt fits. The first came off a poor change, allowing Patrik Elias to force Kris Letang and then make a smart soft backhand feed which sprung Dainius Zubrus for a clean break, which he converted with a sweet power forehand deke to draw even. The second came was a potential momentum shifter with less than two minutes left when another Pens' misplay led to returning Devil hero Paul Martin breaking in and firing far side past Marc-Andre Fleury. A very good shot but another one the Pens' netminder should've had. In four starts versus the defending champs' kryptonite, he doesn't play well.
Meanwhile, Martin Brodeur made a few strong stops when called upon. He has 10 saves to Marc-Andre's seven. You have to wonder if the Pens minus Evgeni Malkin, can respond. All we saw from Sidney Crosby were some dirty stick whacks at Mike Mottau that drew Devil fans' ire. The same kind of stuff he gets away with versus us. It would be a refreshing change to see the Golden Boy treated like other players. For one of the game's best, he sure gets away with a lot. But as evidenced during last night's Ranger clunker, refs just aren't paying enough attention to stick swings like the one Brian Gionta got away with after a whistle. He ain't Mr. Hacks for nothing.
Time for the second. Be back after.
Both off identical sloppy turnovers forced by Jacques Lemaire's trap which has given Pitt fits. The first came off a poor change, allowing Patrik Elias to force Kris Letang and then make a smart soft backhand feed which sprung Dainius Zubrus for a clean break, which he converted with a sweet power forehand deke to draw even. The second came was a potential momentum shifter with less than two minutes left when another Pens' misplay led to returning Devil hero Paul Martin breaking in and firing far side past Marc-Andre Fleury. A very good shot but another one the Pens' netminder should've had. In four starts versus the defending champs' kryptonite, he doesn't play well.
Meanwhile, Martin Brodeur made a few strong stops when called upon. He has 10 saves to Marc-Andre's seven. You have to wonder if the Pens minus Evgeni Malkin, can respond. All we saw from Sidney Crosby were some dirty stick whacks at Mike Mottau that drew Devil fans' ire. The same kind of stuff he gets away with versus us. It would be a refreshing change to see the Golden Boy treated like other players. For one of the game's best, he sure gets away with a lot. But as evidenced during last night's Ranger clunker, refs just aren't paying enough attention to stick swings like the one Brian Gionta got away with after a whistle. He ain't Mr. Hacks for nothing.
Time for the second. Be back after.
Monday, March 15, 2010
Devils and Bruins thru 1
The Devils are back at home taking on current Eastern 8th seed Boston, who are nursing a one-point lead over the idle Rangers. They return to action tomorrow night with faceoff at 7:30, hosting seventh seeded Montreal. While that promises to be a big game, the Blueshirts also get the Blues Thursday and those struggling Bruins later this week.
Perhaps the B's should just forfeit the remaining 40 minutes. They're already down 3-zip. David Clarkson's tallied twice and Zach Parise just finished off a Mike Mottau point shot off a faceoff. Not surprisingly, all three have come at even strength as the Devil power play continues to operate as well as PSE & G. How good was the opening 20 for the Newark hosts? Martin Brodeur got the lone assist on Clarkson's eighth. Apparently, the other goal is now credited to Rob Niedermayer, who must've gotten a piece of David's shot. Martin Skoula picked up his first point on the opening tally. Clarkson and Parise struck 45 seconds apart late in the stanza which they controlled despite a 12-11 shot margin.
A great response by Jacques Lemaire's club following a stinker on the Island. If they win, it would be the fourth straight win on home ice and move them within two of first Pittsburgh with the final game of the season series Wednesday. Also of note, Parise's goal was his club-leading 32nd. Improving fourth center Rod Pelley also fought Mark Stuart, defending captain Jamie Langenbrunner who earlier went after Dennis Seidenberg for a questionable hit on Zach Attack.Noteworthy because these Devils stick up for each other. Something that bodes well moving forward.
As for Claude Julien's club, they came in losers of 3 of 4 (1-2-1). They've been unpredictable all season. Minus Marc Savard, goals are going to be tough to come by. In other words, a brutal period that they can't afford now. Will they be able to bounce back?
Perhaps the B's should just forfeit the remaining 40 minutes. They're already down 3-zip. David Clarkson's tallied twice and Zach Parise just finished off a Mike Mottau point shot off a faceoff. Not surprisingly, all three have come at even strength as the Devil power play continues to operate as well as PSE & G. How good was the opening 20 for the Newark hosts? Martin Brodeur got the lone assist on Clarkson's eighth. Apparently, the other goal is now credited to Rob Niedermayer, who must've gotten a piece of David's shot. Martin Skoula picked up his first point on the opening tally. Clarkson and Parise struck 45 seconds apart late in the stanza which they controlled despite a 12-11 shot margin.
A great response by Jacques Lemaire's club following a stinker on the Island. If they win, it would be the fourth straight win on home ice and move them within two of first Pittsburgh with the final game of the season series Wednesday. Also of note, Parise's goal was his club-leading 32nd. Improving fourth center Rod Pelley also fought Mark Stuart, defending captain Jamie Langenbrunner who earlier went after Dennis Seidenberg for a questionable hit on Zach Attack.Noteworthy because these Devils stick up for each other. Something that bodes well moving forward.
As for Claude Julien's club, they came in losers of 3 of 4 (1-2-1). They've been unpredictable all season. Minus Marc Savard, goals are going to be tough to come by. In other words, a brutal period that they can't afford now. Will they be able to bounce back?
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
For the love of sanity
That second period by our guys was one of the most passionless, careless, dismal displays. If there were a crash course in Hockey 101 on How Not To Play Hockey, the Rangers' lack there of performance would be primary example No.1.
To not even bother competing against one of your biggest rivals is a writhing indictment of the mismatched soft as Carvel/Hostess roster the GM (General Moron) put together. I'm disgraced, humiliated and thoroughly embarrassed to root for this team.
End of rant.
To not even bother competing against one of your biggest rivals is a writhing indictment of the mismatched soft as Carvel/Hostess roster the GM (General Moron) put together. I'm disgraced, humiliated and thoroughly embarrassed to root for this team.
End of rant.
Tuesday, March 2, 2010
Oh The Pain
Joe Benigno says it a lot when it comes to his teams (Mets, Jets, Knicks and Rangers) and it certainly applies to the Rangers. Not even halfway through the first trailing 1-zip at Ottawa and already I miss the Olympics badly. Well, they sure have influenced a lot of sarcastic doom and gloom over on Twitter. One period of Ranger hockey. What the Booshirts do to their own fans:
Please Sather trade Joey to WFAN where they know nothing RT @BattleOfNewYork: stfu Michelemouth yeah cause they actually care about WINNING
take me out to the ballgame, take me out with the crowd
@nicolewesttt yes everything we're not RT @nicolewesttt the Sens are good passers. really good. SCARY good
Hey, Rangers, hit someone!
'but he makes good trades' .. 'but look what he did with Edmonton' .. 'but ALMOST playoffs is better than nothing' = #NYR decade of failure
If the gold medal game created any new hockey fans, this Ranger/Senator game is changing their minds back.
Wait...Redden and Gilroy on the PP...guess Torts didn't get the "How to Score on us Shorthanded" memo...
this is perfect RT @eddiekane150 I really am not looking forward to tomorrow and whatever Sather does. Whatever it is it will be stupid.
@BattleOfNewYork for its one, two, three strikes, you're out at the old ball game, baseball season cant get here soon enough
Sunday, February 28, 2010
I Love Zach Attack
Woohoooooooooo!!!!!!!!!!! Zach Attack comes through tying this unreal gold medal game with 24.4 ticks left!!!!! We're headed to sudden death. What guts by Team USA coming back from two down against Canada, who controlled the first half on goals by Jonathan Toews and Corey Perry. Hometown Canuck beat opposing teammate Roberto Luongo redirecting a Patrick Kane shot through to get the Americans on the board late in the second.
Canada had two goalposts early in the third which could've sealed it. One bounced off Ryan Suter past Ryan Miller but off the lucky left post. The Buffalo goalie who's been the best man in net all tournament then robbed Patrick Marleau on the doorstep extending his right pad. Ron Wilson pulled him with over a minute. The miracle took place after Luongo muffed a Joe Pavelski shot leading to sustained Team USA pressure. Off a Kane shot in the slot with both captain Jamie Langenbrunner and Zach Parise in front, it deflected off Captain America and Luongo to Parise, who swept the puck in leading to an amazing tying goal celebration.
Fifty years ago today, Team USA won gold. Twenty years later, the Miracle On Ice team went all the way. Now, it's 30 years later with another zero in the year. Is it meant to be? We'll find out in what should be a riveting conclusion to an amazing tourney.
Canada had two goalposts early in the third which could've sealed it. One bounced off Ryan Suter past Ryan Miller but off the lucky left post. The Buffalo goalie who's been the best man in net all tournament then robbed Patrick Marleau on the doorstep extending his right pad. Ron Wilson pulled him with over a minute. The miracle took place after Luongo muffed a Joe Pavelski shot leading to sustained Team USA pressure. Off a Kane shot in the slot with both captain Jamie Langenbrunner and Zach Parise in front, it deflected off Captain America and Luongo to Parise, who swept the puck in leading to an amazing tying goal celebration.
Fifty years ago today, Team USA won gold. Twenty years later, the Miracle On Ice team went all the way. Now, it's 30 years later with another zero in the year. Is it meant to be? We'll find out in what should be a riveting conclusion to an amazing tourney.
Friday, February 26, 2010
USA/Canada a period away
Thus far, it looks like the much anticipated USA/Canada rematch for Olympic gold is in line. After the Americans dominated Finland with a six goal first period barrage including five in 5:54, the host Canadians lead Slovakia 3-zip after two periods. They've outshot the Cinderella 21-9, getting goals off the sticks of Patrick Marleau, Brenden Morrow and Ryan Getzlaf.
All three have come via simple North American style plays. Three point shots from D with the opening deuce in the first both via redirects by Marleau (video review confirmed) and hit machine Morrow, who's suddenly his country's most visible player. The third came with under five to go in the second when Getzlaf whipped a backhand rebound past Jaroslav Halak for a power play goal, cashing in an undisciplined Richard Zednik hold of the stick 200 feet away.
When called upon Roberto Luongo has stopped everything one by one as Canada's D has limited the skilled Slovaks, who have overpassed. Marian Hossa and Marian Gaborik have had chances but were unable to get them on net. Down three, former Islander Ziggy Palffy had the best opportunity off a turnover but his five-hold try on a mini-break was shutdown by Louie.
Unless Slovakia can produce a miracle of their own, it looks like USA/Canada will vie for gold eight years later. But this time in Vancouver and not Salt Lake. If it comes off, can the Americans return the favor? Still one more period left before it becomes official.
All three have come via simple North American style plays. Three point shots from D with the opening deuce in the first both via redirects by Marleau (video review confirmed) and hit machine Morrow, who's suddenly his country's most visible player. The third came with under five to go in the second when Getzlaf whipped a backhand rebound past Jaroslav Halak for a power play goal, cashing in an undisciplined Richard Zednik hold of the stick 200 feet away.
When called upon Roberto Luongo has stopped everything one by one as Canada's D has limited the skilled Slovaks, who have overpassed. Marian Hossa and Marian Gaborik have had chances but were unable to get them on net. Down three, former Islander Ziggy Palffy had the best opportunity off a turnover but his five-hold try on a mini-break was shutdown by Louie.
Unless Slovakia can produce a miracle of their own, it looks like USA/Canada will vie for gold eight years later. But this time in Vancouver and not Salt Lake. If it comes off, can the Americans return the favor? Still one more period left before it becomes official.
Greatest First Period Ever
Team USA scores SIX on flat Finland chasing Miikka Kiprusoff (4 GA on 7 shots) while getting next pair in 15 seconds on poor Niklas Backstrom. The six goals are the most in a period since 1964 versus Germany.
Total Domination! Never seen anything like it? This was even more stunning than Canada's blitz of Russia. Parise, Langenbrunner, Rafalski, Kane, Malone and Stastny all with at least two points. Unbelievable!
Total Domination! Never seen anything like it? This was even more stunning than Canada's blitz of Russia. Parise, Langenbrunner, Rafalski, Kane, Malone and Stastny all with at least two points. Unbelievable!
Wednesday, February 24, 2010
Russian Humiliation
Uh. Apparently, the guys wearing those Russian jerseys forgot that there was a game tonight. So did their coach who thought it was a novel idea to keep a shaky Evgeni Nabokov in after he allowed a crushing fourth goal on a simple Brenden Morrow backhand wraparound. Brutal.
Let's see. A team consisting of Alex Ovechkin, Pavel Datsyuk, Evgeni Malkin, Alexander Semin and Ilya Kovalchuk essentially quit. Malkin's turnover at the blueline that led directly to Rick Nash's breakaway goal following Dan Boyle's unscreened power play tally made it 3-zip before the sloppy Russians knew what hit them. Dmitry Kalinin (really) got one back. Kovalchuk had a quality chance in the slot blocked by Drew Doughty, who also leveled Ovechkin during the Canadian onslaught. Outside of that one shot, Kovalchuk was scary turning over the puck along with many teammates, who just couldn't deal with Canada's size and speed. Still, that Morrow goal was a momentum killer.
The Russian coach might want to beef up security because there's a good chance he'll need it. Poor Nabby just didn't have it. How sad is this performance if you can call it that? Russia's goalscorers are Kalinin, Maxim Afinogenov and Sergei Gonchar. On former captain Alexei Kovalev's 37th birthday, it looks like his country could use him. Oh well.
Goalscorers for Canada: Ryan Getzlaf, Boyle, Nash, Morrow, Corey Perry (2), Shea Weber.
The third is on. I gave up when it was 6-2.
Let's see. A team consisting of Alex Ovechkin, Pavel Datsyuk, Evgeni Malkin, Alexander Semin and Ilya Kovalchuk essentially quit. Malkin's turnover at the blueline that led directly to Rick Nash's breakaway goal following Dan Boyle's unscreened power play tally made it 3-zip before the sloppy Russians knew what hit them. Dmitry Kalinin (really) got one back. Kovalchuk had a quality chance in the slot blocked by Drew Doughty, who also leveled Ovechkin during the Canadian onslaught. Outside of that one shot, Kovalchuk was scary turning over the puck along with many teammates, who just couldn't deal with Canada's size and speed. Still, that Morrow goal was a momentum killer.
The Russian coach might want to beef up security because there's a good chance he'll need it. Poor Nabby just didn't have it. How sad is this performance if you can call it that? Russia's goalscorers are Kalinin, Maxim Afinogenov and Sergei Gonchar. On former captain Alexei Kovalev's 37th birthday, it looks like his country could use him. Oh well.
Goalscorers for Canada: Ryan Getzlaf, Boyle, Nash, Morrow, Corey Perry (2), Shea Weber.
The third is on. I gave up when it was 6-2.
Tuesday, February 16, 2010
USA-Swiss 2nd Period Thoughts
At the end of two periods of play, Team USA leads Switzerland 3-zip. Second period goalscorers for the Americans were David Backes with a great end-to-end rush culminating in a forehand deke, and Ryan Malone banging home a rebound for a power play goal. USA's first of the tournament. Some second period thoughts:
-Backes has been USA's best player, noticeable every shift and on for two of three markers. He's really throwing his weight around and utilizing his size and speed. Can he develop into a power forward in St. Louis? The Blues hope so.
-Disappointed in Paul Stastny, who's overskated and passed up a great opportunity from 16 feet away in the slot, messing up a 3-on-2 by passing to Patrick Kane on a bad angle. Stastny's the No.1 center on this team but he's slowed down both 20 cent and Zach Attack.
-USA has been guilty of two poor pinches leading to odd-man rushes against, including a dangerous 3-on-1 that should've been converted. However, Julien Sprunger couldn't cash it shooting over the top with Miller down and out. He also had a quality chance in first but his wraparound was stuffed by the Buffalo netminder.
-Like what I see from Joe Pavelski, who's wearing No.16. He was doing some excellent work in front distracting Hiller enough so Malone could get to the rebound and steer it home. However, as much as I like him, he's not a "poor man's Joe Sakic" yet Pierre McGuire. But certainly a guy the Sharks must lock up this summer. If they don't, I'd love the Rangers to go after him.
-Nice work also by Phil Kessel on one shift, creating a chance for linemates. He's seen some top line duty and time with Pavelski.
-Drury and Callahan continue to impress along with Ryan. All three have been real noticeable.
-Nice read by Ryan Suter on the PPG seeing the traffic and getting the shot through for a helper. Erik Johnson's also looked strong on the blueline.
-Third period's on. We'll be back to wrap up hopefully a Team USA victory.
-Backes has been USA's best player, noticeable every shift and on for two of three markers. He's really throwing his weight around and utilizing his size and speed. Can he develop into a power forward in St. Louis? The Blues hope so.
-Disappointed in Paul Stastny, who's overskated and passed up a great opportunity from 16 feet away in the slot, messing up a 3-on-2 by passing to Patrick Kane on a bad angle. Stastny's the No.1 center on this team but he's slowed down both 20 cent and Zach Attack.
-USA has been guilty of two poor pinches leading to odd-man rushes against, including a dangerous 3-on-1 that should've been converted. However, Julien Sprunger couldn't cash it shooting over the top with Miller down and out. He also had a quality chance in first but his wraparound was stuffed by the Buffalo netminder.
-Like what I see from Joe Pavelski, who's wearing No.16. He was doing some excellent work in front distracting Hiller enough so Malone could get to the rebound and steer it home. However, as much as I like him, he's not a "poor man's Joe Sakic" yet Pierre McGuire. But certainly a guy the Sharks must lock up this summer. If they don't, I'd love the Rangers to go after him.
-Nice work also by Phil Kessel on one shift, creating a chance for linemates. He's seen some top line duty and time with Pavelski.
-Drury and Callahan continue to impress along with Ryan. All three have been real noticeable.
-Nice read by Ryan Suter on the PPG seeing the traffic and getting the shot through for a helper. Erik Johnson's also looked strong on the blueline.
-Third period's on. We'll be back to wrap up hopefully a Team USA victory.
USA vs Swiss 1st Period Observations
They finally dropped the puck in British Columbia. With the 30-Year anniversary of the greatest Olympic hockey game less than a week away, another bunch of gritty Americans not expected to medal have begun their journey against a pesky Swiss team that was a huge story four years ago in Torino upsetting mighty Canada thanks to Martin Gerber. The first period was pretty competitive with the pesky Swiss playing a physical, tight checking game which gave our boys trouble. Especially in neutral zone. Ryan Miller even had to make a couple of big saves before a sweet finish with 61 ticks left by our breakout player Bobby Ryan for the period's only goal. Other observations:
-great work by David Backes on Ryan's goal hustling in the corners as did the Duck, who as Doc Emrick duly noted, beat a Duck in Jonas Hiller.
-Ryan Callahan was one of USA's best players playing his usual physical game, finishing checks. He and Ranger 'mate Chris Drury nearly hooked up for a goal thanks to a strong Ryan takeout of a Swiss along the boards. Dru made a nice dish across for Cally, who patiently waited but fired off the side of the net.
-Not much heard from the top line but Zach Parise did get a quality chance from the right circle, rifling a high riser off Hiller's mask.
-former NHLer Hnat Domenicelli impressed for SUI generating a couple of chances including one dangerous one. Former Ranger property Phillippe Fuhrer was also good.
-no commercials speeds up the game so much. My Dad's right.
Game is already back on. Here are lines from what we gather:
Kessel/Kane-Stastny-Parise
Brown-Kesler-Langenbrunner
Malone-Pavelski-Ryan
Backes-Drury-Callahan
-great work by David Backes on Ryan's goal hustling in the corners as did the Duck, who as Doc Emrick duly noted, beat a Duck in Jonas Hiller.
-Ryan Callahan was one of USA's best players playing his usual physical game, finishing checks. He and Ranger 'mate Chris Drury nearly hooked up for a goal thanks to a strong Ryan takeout of a Swiss along the boards. Dru made a nice dish across for Cally, who patiently waited but fired off the side of the net.
-Not much heard from the top line but Zach Parise did get a quality chance from the right circle, rifling a high riser off Hiller's mask.
-former NHLer Hnat Domenicelli impressed for SUI generating a couple of chances including one dangerous one. Former Ranger property Phillippe Fuhrer was also good.
-no commercials speeds up the game so much. My Dad's right.
Game is already back on. Here are lines from what we gather:
Kessel/Kane-Stastny-Parise
Brown-Kesler-Langenbrunner
Malone-Pavelski-Ryan
Backes-Drury-Callahan
Saturday, January 30, 2010
Just Forfeit
Just when you think they can't possibly sink any lower, the skating dead men that are the Rangers do giving up three goals to the Coyotes in a humiliating first which saw the anti-Rangers skate circles around them. Of course, two more first goals for players named Mikkel Boedker and Sami Lepisto. Outshot 10-4 with odd-man rush after odd-man rush featuring Tinmen falling down. Outplayed severely. Hell. A pee wee team could muster a better effort.
I get that Henrik's sick and Ocho Cinco's in but come on. That was so sad. Shane Doan got it started surprising the poor backup thru the wickets off a turnover. Just 46 seconds later, Boedker finished off a great play by vet Robert Lang who record his 700th NHL point. Less than seven minutes later, Lepisto had all day to fire a pea by a screened Johnson for his first goal in 61 career games.
There just aren't enough words for how uncompetitive they are right now. Everyone needs to go including the coach who's lost the team. I want them to keep losing because that's the only prayer we got of the miracle. While our sadsack bunch give nothing, you got the reverse in the Hurricanes who just went ahead of the best team in the league and now doubled their lead in 26 seconds with hardworking Matt Cullen scoring. Think we couldn't use him now? Another great move by The Genius who believes we're "still in it!!!!!!" In what?!?!?!?!?!! La La Land? And he probably also believes in the tooth fairy.
Watch Paul Maurice's guys get back in the race while the Boo-shirts continue to embarrass the logo. Next time, Just Forfeit!
I get that Henrik's sick and Ocho Cinco's in but come on. That was so sad. Shane Doan got it started surprising the poor backup thru the wickets off a turnover. Just 46 seconds later, Boedker finished off a great play by vet Robert Lang who record his 700th NHL point. Less than seven minutes later, Lepisto had all day to fire a pea by a screened Johnson for his first goal in 61 career games.
There just aren't enough words for how uncompetitive they are right now. Everyone needs to go including the coach who's lost the team. I want them to keep losing because that's the only prayer we got of the miracle. While our sadsack bunch give nothing, you got the reverse in the Hurricanes who just went ahead of the best team in the league and now doubled their lead in 26 seconds with hardworking Matt Cullen scoring. Think we couldn't use him now? Another great move by The Genius who believes we're "still in it!!!!!!" In what?!?!?!?!?!! La La Land? And he probably also believes in the tooth fairy.
Watch Paul Maurice's guys get back in the race while the Boo-shirts continue to embarrass the logo. Next time, Just Forfeit!
Saturday, January 16, 2010
Elias leaves Av game on stretcher
Devils forward Patrik Elias left this afternoon's game at the Avalanche on a stretcher. The franchise leading scorer was hit by Colorado defenseman Ryan Wilson 38 seconds into the second period and stayed on the ice for five minutes before being taken off the ice. Encouraging is that he did manage to wave to the crowd.
Judging from a few accounts over on Twitter, the hit didn't sound bad but was high, snapping his chin back. We'll have a better idea later.
Entering play, the 33 year-old Czech Republic Olympic captain had 10 goals and 16 helpers for 26 points with three deciding markers and a plus-13 rating in 31 contests.
Rookie defenseman Mark Fraser stepped in for Elias over three minutes later and fought Wilson. In a game the Devils currently trail 2-1 early in the third, there have been three fights. Rob Niedermayer just got his team on the board. Hasan should have more later on this along with Elias' status.
UPDATE: Early indications are positive on Elias, who is said to be alright and will travel back to New Jersey.
Friday, January 8, 2010
A Devilish Delay: Game Postponed
In a game our blogger is probably at, the Devils and Lightning currently are waiting to resume play. They've been delayed about an hour due to a power outage. With 9:12 remaining in the second period, the Devils were trailing the Bolts 3-0 when apparently, some lights went out at The Prudential Center.
Perhaps Hell was freezing over with Satan in disbelief over the score and decided to flip the switch. Tampa hardly came in on fire. So, it's pretty shocking that they're up three on the Eastern leader who never loses at home. The Lightning have three goals on seven shots against Martin Brodeur showing just how bizarre this Friday night is. Too bad it's not Friday The 13th. Is there a full moon out?
The Devils outshot their guests 14-4 in the first but trailed by one due to a Steve Downie power play goal. Thus far, special teams have been the story with Tampa connecting twice in three power plays while New Jersey is 0-for-2. Speaking to how weird it is to see the Devs down like this, the immortal Brandon Bochenski- who once was dealt straight up for Kris Versteeg- has his first goal in three years. Wonder who won that deal?
Steven Stamkos has also tallied his team best 22nd from Martin St. Louis and Vincent Lecavalier with the third marker coming with 9:56 left. A mere 44 seconds before the magic electric trick. This can't be what's meant by PSE & G Power Play. :-P
It's now over an hour delay in Newark. Per the Lightning on Twitter, a pic of Stamkos hoping to get back out there. We'll know more soon.
UPDATE: After much dilly dallying while fans patiently waited hoping for more hockey, the NHL has postponed the game. The issue is that this was the final regular season meeting, meaning they're going to have to find a date that works for Tampa and the Devils. Figure they'll continue from the point it got halted with the Bolts leading 3-zip with 9:12 remaining.
Most appalling is how long this process took with fans who attended having no clue as to what was going on. Why did it take so long for the NHL to come to a decision? It should've been obvious that when it got to an hour that there wasn't going to be anymore hockey tonight. Furthermore, this is embarrassing for the Devils as well because they didn't announce anything until the Lightning players had cleared the bench and the nets had been removed my the maintenance crew. How bizarre can you get? Fans aren't stupid. Many headed for the exits once they saw this, not waiting for PA announcer Kevin Clark's announcement which thanked fans for their patience. Huh? Why did it take so long? I'm at a loss for words.
Perhaps Hell was freezing over with Satan in disbelief over the score and decided to flip the switch. Tampa hardly came in on fire. So, it's pretty shocking that they're up three on the Eastern leader who never loses at home. The Lightning have three goals on seven shots against Martin Brodeur showing just how bizarre this Friday night is. Too bad it's not Friday The 13th. Is there a full moon out?
The Devils outshot their guests 14-4 in the first but trailed by one due to a Steve Downie power play goal. Thus far, special teams have been the story with Tampa connecting twice in three power plays while New Jersey is 0-for-2. Speaking to how weird it is to see the Devs down like this, the immortal Brandon Bochenski- who once was dealt straight up for Kris Versteeg- has his first goal in three years. Wonder who won that deal?
Steven Stamkos has also tallied his team best 22nd from Martin St. Louis and Vincent Lecavalier with the third marker coming with 9:56 left. A mere 44 seconds before the magic electric trick. This can't be what's meant by PSE & G Power Play. :-P
It's now over an hour delay in Newark. Per the Lightning on Twitter, a pic of Stamkos hoping to get back out there. We'll know more soon.
UPDATE: After much dilly dallying while fans patiently waited hoping for more hockey, the NHL has postponed the game. The issue is that this was the final regular season meeting, meaning they're going to have to find a date that works for Tampa and the Devils. Figure they'll continue from the point it got halted with the Bolts leading 3-zip with 9:12 remaining.
Most appalling is how long this process took with fans who attended having no clue as to what was going on. Why did it take so long for the NHL to come to a decision? It should've been obvious that when it got to an hour that there wasn't going to be anymore hockey tonight. Furthermore, this is embarrassing for the Devils as well because they didn't announce anything until the Lightning players had cleared the bench and the nets had been removed my the maintenance crew. How bizarre can you get? Fans aren't stupid. Many headed for the exits once they saw this, not waiting for PA announcer Kevin Clark's announcement which thanked fans for their patience. Huh? Why did it take so long? I'm at a loss for words.
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