The Rangers dominated the Devils about as much as you could since about the 10:00 mark of the first and still are losing because of a late goal by Zach Parise in the second.
This team sucks. They can outplay elite teams and still not take advantage. Then the Devils get one of their patented flukey bounces for a goal.
Will it ever end?
Covering the Rangers, Devils, Islanders and Sabres five years running along with the rest of the puckers!
BONY
Battle Of New York
Tuesday, February 6, 2007
1-1 after 1
Martin scores on the 4v4 for the Devils, Rachunek answers back with a PowerPlay tally.
To be fair, they got that from VERSUS last night, and you can never trust them.
To be fair, they got that from VERSUS last night, and you can never trust them.
Already It Starts
2 giveaways on the first 2 shifts which could've led to Devil goals. This team blows.
At least Avery is with Cullen and Shanahan and not buried on the fourth line yet. Otherwise, I'd just leave.
At least Avery is with Cullen and Shanahan and not buried on the fourth line yet. Otherwise, I'd just leave.
Interesting
To note that according to FSNY, Public Enemy No.1 Sean Avery has drawn a league best 46 power plays. When Cam Janssen does that, let me know.
And with that, a little something to stir up this one-sided rivalry.
Steve will have the Devils winning recap after.
And with that, a little something to stir up this one-sided rivalry.
Steve will have the Devils winning recap after.
Battle of the Hudson GameDay: Round 6, 7:30 PM (FSNY [HD]/MSG 2)
New York (25-24-4, 54 PTS, 4th Atlantic, 11th East)
vs.
New Jersey (32-15-6, 70 PTS, 1st Atlantic, 2nd East)
Last Game:
New Jersey - Beat Buffalo 3-2 on a 3rd Period Rally. (Watch: http://www.nhl.com/video/app?component=%24NHLDirectLink_0&page=GameHighlights&service=direct&sp=S%2F20062007%2F02%2F0790%2FIH_NHL_2006_2007_790_2_700K_continuous.wmv&sp=20062007&sp=790&sp=2)
New York - Lost 4-3 to Detroit on a 3rd Period Rally. (Watch: http://www.nhl.com/video/app?component=%24GameVideoViewer.%24NHLDirectLink_0&page=DailyHighlights&service=direct&sp=S%2F20062007%2F02%2F0800%2FIH_NHL_2006_2007_800_2_700K_continuous.wmv&sp=20062007&sp=800&sp=2)
Last Meeting
Devils win 1-0 on a First Period Tally from Brad Lukowich. (Watch: http://www.nhl.com/video/app?component=%24GameVideoViewer_4.%24NHLDirectLink_0&page=DailyHighlights&service=direct&sp=S%2F20062007%2F02%2F0690%2FIH_NHL_2006_2007_690_2_700K_continuous.wmv&sp=20062007&sp=690&sp=2)
Leading Scorers
New Jersey
#26 Patrik Elias 18-31-49
#14 Brian Gionta 24-18-42
#9 Zach Parise 20-21-41
#23 Scott Gomez 9-32-41
#15 Jamie Langenbrunner 18-21-39
New York
#68 Jaromir Jagr 19-44-63
#82 Martin Straka 24-34-58
#92 Michael Nylander 18-39-57
#14 Brendan Shanahan 27-24-51
#3 Michal Rozsival 6-20-26
Goaltenders
New Jersey
#30 Martin Brodeur 32-14-5, 2.08, .926%
#40 Scott Clemmenson 0-1-1, 3.60, .868%
New York
#30 Henrik Lundqvist 21-18-2, 2.75, .905%
#80 Kevin Weekes 4-6-2, 3.39, .879%
Prediction: Devils, 3-1.
vs.
New Jersey (32-15-6, 70 PTS, 1st Atlantic, 2nd East)
Last Game:
New Jersey - Beat Buffalo 3-2 on a 3rd Period Rally. (Watch: http://www.nhl.com/video/app?component=%24NHLDirectLink_0&page=GameHighlights&service=direct&sp=S%2F20062007%2F02%2F0790%2FIH_NHL_2006_2007_790_2_700K_continuous.wmv&sp=20062007&sp=790&sp=2)
New York - Lost 4-3 to Detroit on a 3rd Period Rally. (Watch: http://www.nhl.com/video/app?component=%24GameVideoViewer.%24NHLDirectLink_0&page=DailyHighlights&service=direct&sp=S%2F20062007%2F02%2F0800%2FIH_NHL_2006_2007_800_2_700K_continuous.wmv&sp=20062007&sp=800&sp=2)
Last Meeting
Devils win 1-0 on a First Period Tally from Brad Lukowich. (Watch: http://www.nhl.com/video/app?component=%24GameVideoViewer_4.%24NHLDirectLink_0&page=DailyHighlights&service=direct&sp=S%2F20062007%2F02%2F0690%2FIH_NHL_2006_2007_690_2_700K_continuous.wmv&sp=20062007&sp=690&sp=2)
Leading Scorers
New Jersey
#26 Patrik Elias 18-31-49
#14 Brian Gionta 24-18-42
#9 Zach Parise 20-21-41
#23 Scott Gomez 9-32-41
#15 Jamie Langenbrunner 18-21-39
New York
#68 Jaromir Jagr 19-44-63
#82 Martin Straka 24-34-58
#92 Michael Nylander 18-39-57
#14 Brendan Shanahan 27-24-51
#3 Michal Rozsival 6-20-26
Goaltenders
New Jersey
#30 Martin Brodeur 32-14-5, 2.08, .926%
#40 Scott Clemmenson 0-1-1, 3.60, .868%
New York
#30 Henrik Lundqvist 21-18-2, 2.75, .905%
#80 Kevin Weekes 4-6-2, 3.39, .879%
Prediction: Devils, 3-1.
On Topic
Since Sean Avery is the hot topic and most likely will make his Ranger debut tonight in The Swamp, here's an old interview the flambuoyant and often outspoken energizer did with Maxim:
Sean Avery Speaks
Do you feel like every team has someone gunning for you?
Always. I’m so used to it now, it’s just an assumption going into every game that somebody’s going to be up my ass.
Ever worry that if you get traded, you’re going to have to face guys you’ve badmouthed?
I’m sure at some point I’m going to have to look at these guys and say, “Hey, you know, no hard feelings.” Hopefully everyone will be cool with it.
On Nashville Predators forward Darcy Hordichuk:
“Hordichuk is the worst player in the NHL. He’s an embarrassment. He can’t even skate, he can’t shoot, and he can’t pass. Just look at the stats.”
On former NHLPA head Bob Goodenow, after the lockout ended:
To read the entire interview, please click on the link above. You won't be disappointed.
And now an entertaining off topic chat I had with a Devil buddy who lives out in Phoenix:
Kovy274Hart [12:21 AM]: man i have the 90's channel on
Kovy274Hart [12:21 AM]: and they're playing that Jamie Walters song
Kovy274Hart [12:21 AM]: LOL
Stevens8204 [12:21 AM]: damn
Kovy274Hart [12:23 AM]: wasn't he in what's it called
Kovy274Hart [12:25 AM]: 90210
Stevens8204 [12:25 AM]: yeah
Stevens8204 [12:25 AM]: and did that corny song have you talked to an angel or something like that
Kovy274Hart [12:26 AM]: lmfao
Kovy274Hart [12:26 AM]: omg
Stevens8204 [12:26 AM]: didnt he play the guy that beat up donna too?
Kovy274Hart [12:26 AM]: yes
Stevens8204 [12:26 AM]: now i know im old
Kovy274Hart [12:26 AM]: man
Kovy274Hart [12:26 AM]: i don't feel old
Stevens8204 [12:27 AM]: i dont either...but age wise...im gettin there
Kovy274Hart [12:30 AM]: eh
Kovy274Hart [12:30 AM]: don't do that to yourself
Kovy274Hart [12:30 AM]: we are young at heart
Stevens8204 [12:31 AM]: thats true
Kovy274Hart [12:31 AM]: i got proofed yet again tonight
Stevens8204 [12:32 AM]: i still do...it cracks me up
Kovy274Hart [12:32 AM]: yeah
Kovy274Hart [12:32 AM]: it tells you a lot
Kovy274Hart [12:32 AM]: :)
I think what it tells you is that even when things aren't always going the way you want, you can always feel good about something. It's all about perspective. Still can't believe some of the songs they're playing on this 90's station. Classic stuff!
Sean Avery Speaks
Do you feel like every team has someone gunning for you?
Always. I’m so used to it now, it’s just an assumption going into every game that somebody’s going to be up my ass.
Ever worry that if you get traded, you’re going to have to face guys you’ve badmouthed?
I’m sure at some point I’m going to have to look at these guys and say, “Hey, you know, no hard feelings.” Hopefully everyone will be cool with it.
On Nashville Predators forward Darcy Hordichuk:
“Hordichuk is the worst player in the NHL. He’s an embarrassment. He can’t even skate, he can’t shoot, and he can’t pass. Just look at the stats.”
On former NHLPA head Bob Goodenow, after the lockout ended:
“We didn’t get anything. We wasted an entire season. I am furious at Bob. Bob thought he was bigger than he was. Bob brainwashed players like me.”
To read the entire interview, please click on the link above. You won't be disappointed.
And now an entertaining off topic chat I had with a Devil buddy who lives out in Phoenix:
Kovy274Hart [12:21 AM]: man i have the 90's channel on
Kovy274Hart [12:21 AM]: and they're playing that Jamie Walters song
Kovy274Hart [12:21 AM]: LOL
Stevens8204 [12:21 AM]: damn
Kovy274Hart [12:23 AM]: wasn't he in what's it called
Kovy274Hart [12:25 AM]: 90210
Stevens8204 [12:25 AM]: yeah
Stevens8204 [12:25 AM]: and did that corny song have you talked to an angel or something like that
Kovy274Hart [12:26 AM]: lmfao
Kovy274Hart [12:26 AM]: omg
Stevens8204 [12:26 AM]: didnt he play the guy that beat up donna too?
Kovy274Hart [12:26 AM]: yes
Stevens8204 [12:26 AM]: now i know im old
Kovy274Hart [12:26 AM]: man
Kovy274Hart [12:26 AM]: i don't feel old
Stevens8204 [12:27 AM]: i dont either...but age wise...im gettin there
Kovy274Hart [12:30 AM]: eh
Kovy274Hart [12:30 AM]: don't do that to yourself
Kovy274Hart [12:30 AM]: we are young at heart
Stevens8204 [12:31 AM]: thats true
Kovy274Hart [12:31 AM]: i got proofed yet again tonight
Stevens8204 [12:32 AM]: i still do...it cracks me up
Kovy274Hart [12:32 AM]: yeah
Kovy274Hart [12:32 AM]: it tells you a lot
Kovy274Hart [12:32 AM]: :)
I think what it tells you is that even when things aren't always going the way you want, you can always feel good about something. It's all about perspective. Still can't believe some of the songs they're playing on this 90's station. Classic stuff!
Monday, February 5, 2007
Being Honest Here
If they didn't address the team toughness and acquire a complete hockey player, I wouldn't even bother tuning in tomorrow. It at least perks my dwindling interest. Instead of skipping it entirely as planned, I'll watch the first period and see what unfolds.
Numb
I believe Linkin' Park had a hit song a couple of years ago which sums up my feelings regarding this sad Broadway Blueshirt edition. Unlike that song "Numb," there's nothing exciting about this team. I think WFAN's always entertaining Steve Somers summed up how I felt earlier, basically saying that 'this team belonged on Versus because nobody could find the network.' Hahahaha...I'll try to supply the link from his classic monologue which featured their latest defeat as well as the comparable underachieving Nets' one. As Michael Ray Richardson once said during a bad Knicks season, "The ship be sinking."
Back to the latest game I walked out of early with minutes to spare. I wish I could say I felt good about the surprising 3-1 lead they built after one inspired period against the Original Six classic Red Wings. But I knew better. There's really not much to say. I'm tired and as predicted, Detroit cameback to get three in excruciating fashion in the third. Oh. And for all the Dominator cynics, the guy might not see a lot of shots and might not have been razor sharp in the first but once his team needed the big stops, he stepped up. That's what makes him one of the all-time greats. He once used to see a lot of rubber for the Sabres and did it better than anyone to the tune of 2 Harts and 6 Vezinas. It once was said seeing all those shots was his own doing. Now, 42 going on 43 the future Hall of Famer doesn't see enough shots. Hmmm...that sounds an awful lot like...nevermind. Just goes to show you. What's that hit song I liked from the late 90's? "Hey Jealousy." Ah. I wish I could hear that now. A kickass tune for sure!
So, who stood out in this one for the Rangers? Who do you think? The usual suspects who show up every night such as Marcel Hossa, Jed Ortmeyer, Blair Betts, Matt Cullen, Petr Prucha, even Ryan Hollweg and of course ex-Red Wing Brendan Shanahan, who btw snapped his long even-strength goal drought on his very first shift against the club he helped win 3 Cups with. He always had a flair for the dramatic. It's too bad this team is captained by the passionless Jaromir Jagr. Right now, he couldn't captain a sinking ship. I'm sure I'm going to get into it with NY Hockey Report host Joe McDonald Wednesday. It might be worth the listen. There are bound to be fireworks. At least there will be passion. We'll plug it some time tomorrow or before we go to air at our usual time of 8:05 that night.
The only encouraging thing that happened for this soft club was the nowhere to be found GM took a break from smoking cigars god know's where and actually addressed a need by acquiring the gritty and physical Sean Avery from the Kings along with prospect John Seymour in exchange for Jason Ward and unsigned prospects Marc-Andre Cliche plus Czech Jan Marek.
So, what's the consensus here? It's a good deal which will actually give hated rivals a reason to actually watch their step on the ice. Avery (10-18-28, 116 PIM) isn't the biggest guy but boy does the undrafted agitator get the most out of his 5-9 185 frame. The fact the 26 year-old Pickering Ontario native was undrafted and has worked his butt off to turn into a mini-version of Darcy Tucker is a credit to what kind of player he is. He's as tough as they come and will at least address that area finally. Something Ranger fans have been crowing for years. The left wing is also versatile enough to play on a scoring or checking line. I'd love to see him play with Shanahan and ride shotgun. But he'll probably start on the third line.
Regarding what they gave up, I kind of feel bad for Ward. He never really was given a fair shake by Tom Renney. For whatever reason, the grinding energizer sometimes was healthy scratched over Adam Hall. When Ward played the other night, he showed more in one shift than Hall has for basically the entire year. I hope he does well in LA and plays regularly. He deserves it.
Cliche is the one good prospect in this deal. The 19 year-old was drafted by the Rangers a couple of summers ago and was a member of Team Canada's latest gold medal team at the WJC overseas. He was the reason the Kings parted with Avery according to club GM Dean Lombardi:
Lombardi even went as far as to say:
Pretty nice compliments of a player who currently has 15 goals and 21 assists for Lewiston (QMJHL) in 35 games.
Marek meanwhile was drafted by the Rangers a few years ago as an overager. He's played exclusively in Europe and never came close to signing with the club which might be part of the reason he was finally unloaded. This year, he's starred for Magnitogorsk of the Russian Hockey League posting 17 goals and 26 assists in 42 games. He has talent but it's just a question of whether he'll ever sign an NHL contract.
Meanwhile, the one prospect the Rangers got in return doesn't sound like much. The 19 year-old Seymour has just six points in 34 contests for Brampton in the OHL. This deal basically hinges on Avery and Cliche. Those were the main two guys.
It should be noted that while Avery can be ornery, Lombardi heaped some high praise about the character guy he gave up:
Until then, don't freeze too much out there. You could actually become as frozen as the ice. Ah. How I long for a 45-50 degree day. It can't come soon enough!
Back to the latest game I walked out of early with minutes to spare. I wish I could say I felt good about the surprising 3-1 lead they built after one inspired period against the Original Six classic Red Wings. But I knew better. There's really not much to say. I'm tired and as predicted, Detroit cameback to get three in excruciating fashion in the third. Oh. And for all the Dominator cynics, the guy might not see a lot of shots and might not have been razor sharp in the first but once his team needed the big stops, he stepped up. That's what makes him one of the all-time greats. He once used to see a lot of rubber for the Sabres and did it better than anyone to the tune of 2 Harts and 6 Vezinas. It once was said seeing all those shots was his own doing. Now, 42 going on 43 the future Hall of Famer doesn't see enough shots. Hmmm...that sounds an awful lot like...nevermind. Just goes to show you. What's that hit song I liked from the late 90's? "Hey Jealousy." Ah. I wish I could hear that now. A kickass tune for sure!
So, who stood out in this one for the Rangers? Who do you think? The usual suspects who show up every night such as Marcel Hossa, Jed Ortmeyer, Blair Betts, Matt Cullen, Petr Prucha, even Ryan Hollweg and of course ex-Red Wing Brendan Shanahan, who btw snapped his long even-strength goal drought on his very first shift against the club he helped win 3 Cups with. He always had a flair for the dramatic. It's too bad this team is captained by the passionless Jaromir Jagr. Right now, he couldn't captain a sinking ship. I'm sure I'm going to get into it with NY Hockey Report host Joe McDonald Wednesday. It might be worth the listen. There are bound to be fireworks. At least there will be passion. We'll plug it some time tomorrow or before we go to air at our usual time of 8:05 that night.
The only encouraging thing that happened for this soft club was the nowhere to be found GM took a break from smoking cigars god know's where and actually addressed a need by acquiring the gritty and physical Sean Avery from the Kings along with prospect John Seymour in exchange for Jason Ward and unsigned prospects Marc-Andre Cliche plus Czech Jan Marek.
So, what's the consensus here? It's a good deal which will actually give hated rivals a reason to actually watch their step on the ice. Avery (10-18-28, 116 PIM) isn't the biggest guy but boy does the undrafted agitator get the most out of his 5-9 185 frame. The fact the 26 year-old Pickering Ontario native was undrafted and has worked his butt off to turn into a mini-version of Darcy Tucker is a credit to what kind of player he is. He's as tough as they come and will at least address that area finally. Something Ranger fans have been crowing for years. The left wing is also versatile enough to play on a scoring or checking line. I'd love to see him play with Shanahan and ride shotgun. But he'll probably start on the third line.
Regarding what they gave up, I kind of feel bad for Ward. He never really was given a fair shake by Tom Renney. For whatever reason, the grinding energizer sometimes was healthy scratched over Adam Hall. When Ward played the other night, he showed more in one shift than Hall has for basically the entire year. I hope he does well in LA and plays regularly. He deserves it.
Cliche is the one good prospect in this deal. The 19 year-old was drafted by the Rangers a couple of summers ago and was a member of Team Canada's latest gold medal team at the WJC overseas. He was the reason the Kings parted with Avery according to club GM Dean Lombardi:
"Some teams were actively pursuing Sean, the New York Rangers were very aggressive. From our standpoint, the key is the young player, Cliche, who has impressed us."
Lombardi even went as far as to say:
"A player like Cliche, who played for the Canadian National team, this kid works his tail off, he's the type character we're looking for."
Pretty nice compliments of a player who currently has 15 goals and 21 assists for Lewiston (QMJHL) in 35 games.
Marek meanwhile was drafted by the Rangers a few years ago as an overager. He's played exclusively in Europe and never came close to signing with the club which might be part of the reason he was finally unloaded. This year, he's starred for Magnitogorsk of the Russian Hockey League posting 17 goals and 26 assists in 42 games. He has talent but it's just a question of whether he'll ever sign an NHL contract.
Meanwhile, the one prospect the Rangers got in return doesn't sound like much. The 19 year-old Seymour has just six points in 34 contests for Brampton in the OHL. This deal basically hinges on Avery and Cliche. Those were the main two guys.
It should be noted that while Avery can be ornery, Lombardi heaped some high praise about the character guy he gave up:
"He's been good. All year he's learned to be a better teammate. He comes to play every night. Sometimes emotion gets the best of him. I think he's made marked improvement this year...Sometimes players just take a little time to mature. Sean's still young, hopefully he'll continue to do so. He's going to a big stage now. If he continues (to mature), he'll do just fine. From the summer, when I first got there, there wasn't much of a market for Sean Avery. He's made progress."Nice stuff. This is the type of player you love if he's on your team and despise if he's not. As many know, he's never been afraid to mix it up on or off the ice. So, he'll add some personality to the locker room. The Rangers will most likely miss the postseason for the eighth season in nine but they might actually be more interesting to watch now. We'll see.
Until then, don't freeze too much out there. You could actually become as frozen as the ice. Ah. How I long for a 45-50 degree day. It can't come soon enough!
He's baaaaaaack...
Just when I thought I couldn't be more pumped for Tuesday's showdown. The plot just keeps on thickening for this one.
Now, the Avery trade already creates controversy because of certain activities (White, pwnage by Colin) back in November. To make it all the more better and exciting, the Devils have brought everyone's favorite back up from Lowell...
It's about friggin' time folks. #25 will be back for tomorrow night's game.
Before some further thoughts, let's watch said Whitian ownage of Mr. Avery http://www.nhl.com/video/app?component=%24NHLDirectLink_4&page=GameHighlights&service=direct&sp=S%2F20062007%2F02%2F0349%2FIH_NHL_2006_R_349_NJD%40LAK_700k_0004_LAK3194253_hit.wmv&sp=20062007&sp=349&sp=2&sp=SHits
It's only made better by Daryl Reaugh's wordage. He later used the term "bicuspid rattler".
So we have some drama set up for tomorrow night's game. We have a new player on the Rangers whom I once did a report stating my case for why he is a bad role model for children (Grade: A) and the re-call of the Devils toughest player.
'Bout time we had some drama invade this rivalry, eh?
Now, the Avery trade already creates controversy because of certain activities (White, pwnage by Colin) back in November. To make it all the more better and exciting, the Devils have brought everyone's favorite back up from Lowell...
It's about friggin' time folks. #25 will be back for tomorrow night's game.
Before some further thoughts, let's watch said Whitian ownage of Mr. Avery http://www.nhl.com/video/app?component=%24NHLDirectLink_4&page=GameHighlights&service=direct&sp=S%2F20062007%2F02%2F0349%2FIH_NHL_2006_R_349_NJD%40LAK_700k_0004_LAK3194253_hit.wmv&sp=20062007&sp=349&sp=2&sp=SHits
It's only made better by Daryl Reaugh's wordage. He later used the term "bicuspid rattler".
So we have some drama set up for tomorrow night's game. We have a new player on the Rangers whom I once did a report stating my case for why he is a bad role model for children (Grade: A) and the re-call of the Devils toughest player.
'Bout time we had some drama invade this rivalry, eh?
Rangers Acquire Avery...Great
This'll solve that scoring problem, eh Derek?
Sean Avery for Jason Ward and trash? OK, I'l take it.
Sean Avery for Jason Ward and trash? OK, I'l take it.
Sunday, February 4, 2007
The 3 Most Hockey Songs This Week
Here's a new feature. Lyrics that just ooze hockey in them. That's what were looking for. And nothing obvious like Zambonis or Tragically Hip.
So here's this segment's debut.
The Killers
"Read My Mind"
Sam's Town
On the corner of main street
Just tryin' to keep it in line
You say you wanna move on and
You say I'm falling behind
Can you read my mind?
Can you read my mind?
I never really gave up on
Breakin' out of this two-star town
I got the green light
I got a little fight
I'm gonna turn this thing around
Can you read my mind?
Can you read my mind?
The good old days, the honest man;
The restless heart, the Promised Land
A subtle kiss that no one sees;
A broken wrist and a big trapeze
Oh well I don't mind, you don't mind
Cause I don't shine if you don't shine
Before you go, can you read my mind?
It’s funny how you just break down
Waitin' on some sign
I pull up to the front of your driveway
With magic soakin' my spine
Can you read my mind?
Can you read my mind?
The teenage queen, the loaded gun;
The drop dead dream, the Chosen One
A southern drawl, a world unseen;
A city wall and a trampoline
Oh well I don't mind, you don't mind
Cause I don't shine if you don't shine
Before you go
Tell me what you find when you read my mind
Slippin’ in my faith until I fall
You never returned that call
Woman, open the door, don't let it sting
I wanna breathe that fire again
She said
Oh well I don't mind, you don't mind
Cause I don't shine if you don't shine
Put your back on me
Put your back on me
Put your back on me
The stars are blazing like rebel diamonds cut out of the sun
When you read my mind
Here's #2
Incubus
"Light Grenades"
Light Grenades
We're Given a garden
We gave back a parking lot.
(We got about 15 minutes to go!)
Before this audience
Starts throwing tomatoes, yeah.
(It's not the end, there is more show,
We got about 15 minutes to go!)
Survived the plague, floated the flood
Just kept our heads above the mud.
No one's immune, deafening bells
Oh my God, will we survive, ourselves?
I'm not an alarmist
but someone should break the glass.
(And pull that red T-lever down!).
To get their attention
Start lobbing the light grenades.
(That burst and blind them with the truth,
eye for an eye, a tooth for tooth!)
Survived the plague, floated the flood
just kept our heads above the mud.
No one's immune, deafening bells
Oh my God, will we survive (Ourselves?)
Survived the plague, floated the flood
just kept our heads above the mud.
Wipe off your face, we come this far,
C'mon remember who you are!
Number 3
Television
"See No Evil"
Marquee Moon
What I want
I want now
and it's a whole lot more
than 'anyhow'
I want to fly
fly a fountain
I want to jumpjumpjump
jump a mountain
lunderstandall... iseeno...
destructiveurges... iseeno...
itseemssoperfect... iseenoo
...i see... i see no... i see no evil
I get ideas
I get a notion
I want a nice little boat
made out of ocean.
I get your point.
You're so sharp.
Getting good reactions
with your ''BeBo'' talk.
Don't say unconscious
No don't say doom.
If you got to say it
let me leave this room
Cuz what I want
I want now
and it's a whole lot more
than 'anyhow.'
I'm runnin wild with the one i love
I see no evil
I'm runnin wild with the one-eyed ones
I see no evil
Pull down the future with the one you love
Pull down the future
So here's this segment's debut.
The Killers
"Read My Mind"
Sam's Town
On the corner of main street
Just tryin' to keep it in line
You say you wanna move on and
You say I'm falling behind
Can you read my mind?
Can you read my mind?
I never really gave up on
Breakin' out of this two-star town
I got the green light
I got a little fight
I'm gonna turn this thing around
Can you read my mind?
Can you read my mind?
The good old days, the honest man;
The restless heart, the Promised Land
A subtle kiss that no one sees;
A broken wrist and a big trapeze
Oh well I don't mind, you don't mind
Cause I don't shine if you don't shine
Before you go, can you read my mind?
It’s funny how you just break down
Waitin' on some sign
I pull up to the front of your driveway
With magic soakin' my spine
Can you read my mind?
Can you read my mind?
The teenage queen, the loaded gun;
The drop dead dream, the Chosen One
A southern drawl, a world unseen;
A city wall and a trampoline
Oh well I don't mind, you don't mind
Cause I don't shine if you don't shine
Before you go
Tell me what you find when you read my mind
Slippin’ in my faith until I fall
You never returned that call
Woman, open the door, don't let it sting
I wanna breathe that fire again
She said
Oh well I don't mind, you don't mind
Cause I don't shine if you don't shine
Put your back on me
Put your back on me
Put your back on me
The stars are blazing like rebel diamonds cut out of the sun
When you read my mind
Here's #2
Incubus
"Light Grenades"
Light Grenades
We're Given a garden
We gave back a parking lot.
(We got about 15 minutes to go!)
Before this audience
Starts throwing tomatoes, yeah.
(It's not the end, there is more show,
We got about 15 minutes to go!)
Survived the plague, floated the flood
Just kept our heads above the mud.
No one's immune, deafening bells
Oh my God, will we survive, ourselves?
I'm not an alarmist
but someone should break the glass.
(And pull that red T-lever down!).
To get their attention
Start lobbing the light grenades.
(That burst and blind them with the truth,
eye for an eye, a tooth for tooth!)
Survived the plague, floated the flood
just kept our heads above the mud.
No one's immune, deafening bells
Oh my God, will we survive (Ourselves?)
Survived the plague, floated the flood
just kept our heads above the mud.
Wipe off your face, we come this far,
C'mon remember who you are!
Number 3
Television
"See No Evil"
Marquee Moon
What I want
I want now
and it's a whole lot more
than 'anyhow'
I want to fly
fly a fountain
I want to jumpjumpjump
jump a mountain
lunderstandall... iseeno...
destructiveurges... iseeno...
itseemssoperfect... iseenoo
...i see... i see no... i see no evil
I get ideas
I get a notion
I want a nice little boat
made out of ocean.
I get your point.
You're so sharp.
Getting good reactions
with your ''BeBo'' talk.
Don't say unconscious
No don't say doom.
If you got to say it
let me leave this room
Cuz what I want
I want now
and it's a whole lot more
than 'anyhow.'
I'm runnin wild with the one i love
I see no evil
I'm runnin wild with the one-eyed ones
I see no evil
Pull down the future with the one you love
Pull down the future
Rangers-Wings on Versus Tomorrow
This would be my ideal VERSUS schedule. I mean, if it truly was the NHL's hub of broadcasting.
5:00 NHL Faceoff
(A Panel of Hockey Writers and Broadcasters sit down with John Buccigross and talk about the biggest issues in the NHL)
6:00 Tonight at the Rink
Chris Simpson and Eddie Olczyk host this show live from whatever arena that night's game is in (On non-Monday games, it would be whoever's the ice level reporter with the color analyst for the game. You get the point) which shows features on NHL players off the ice and reports on news for the night's game.
6:30 Hockey Central
Back at VERSUS' studios, Bill Clement hosts a preview of that night's hockey action (other games included) with analysts Keith Jones, Darren Pang and Pierre McGuire.
7:00 NHL on VERSUS: Detroit vs. NY Rangers
Mike "Doc" Emrick, Eddie Olczyk and Chris Simpson have the call from MSG. Available in HD on VERSUS HD.
9:30 Hockey Central
A wrap-up of the night's action with Clement, Jones, Pang and McGuire.
12:30 AM NHL 2Night
The Emmy Award winning show is back on a new night and a new network. John Buccigross, Keith Jones and Darren Pang are featured.
That may seem like a lot. But really, it's 2 and a half hours a day to add to the programming schedule. It'd create a hockey atmosphere, drawing fans of other teams to the network, and non-hockey fans to it. On non game nights, NHL Faceoff airs at 6, Hockey Central at 7, and NHL2night at 12:30.
But instead, we have the game and post-game. Brooks is right.
Emrick and Olczyk on the call tomorrow. If you get VERSUS HD, it's airing there too.
5:00 NHL Faceoff
(A Panel of Hockey Writers and Broadcasters sit down with John Buccigross and talk about the biggest issues in the NHL)
6:00 Tonight at the Rink
Chris Simpson and Eddie Olczyk host this show live from whatever arena that night's game is in (On non-Monday games, it would be whoever's the ice level reporter with the color analyst for the game. You get the point) which shows features on NHL players off the ice and reports on news for the night's game.
6:30 Hockey Central
Back at VERSUS' studios, Bill Clement hosts a preview of that night's hockey action (other games included) with analysts Keith Jones, Darren Pang and Pierre McGuire.
7:00 NHL on VERSUS: Detroit vs. NY Rangers
Mike "Doc" Emrick, Eddie Olczyk and Chris Simpson have the call from MSG. Available in HD on VERSUS HD.
9:30 Hockey Central
A wrap-up of the night's action with Clement, Jones, Pang and McGuire.
12:30 AM NHL 2Night
The Emmy Award winning show is back on a new night and a new network. John Buccigross, Keith Jones and Darren Pang are featured.
That may seem like a lot. But really, it's 2 and a half hours a day to add to the programming schedule. It'd create a hockey atmosphere, drawing fans of other teams to the network, and non-hockey fans to it. On non game nights, NHL Faceoff airs at 6, Hockey Central at 7, and NHL2night at 12:30.
But instead, we have the game and post-game. Brooks is right.
Emrick and Olczyk on the call tomorrow. If you get VERSUS HD, it's airing there too.
Sid The Kid Learns Lesson
There's little doubt that Sidney Crosby is the best player in the game not named Martin Brodeur. And if the league's leading scorer gets his Penguins into the postseason for the first time in several years, he'll be the favorite to win the Hart over the Devils netminder.
But today, the 19 year-old superstar showed his age in a tough 4-3 overtime loss in Montreal. In the extra session thanks to a late Michel Ouellet power play tally, Crosby tried to do too much and win it by himself. Circling around the net with the puck with Habs skating with him, he tried a pass which had no chance. Easily intercepted by my first star Tomas Plekanec (2 goals, assist), he went two-on-one the other way setting up Sheldon Souray's winning blast past a defenseless Marc-Andre Fleury for the winner.
Lesson learned the hard way for the wiz kid. So instead of getting that valuable extra point and pulling within one of fifth in the conference, Crosby's club settled for one point which put the East's current sixth seed at 61 points. Though he failed to extend his team's winning streak to seven, the thing I admired the most was that No.87 didn't just skate off the ice with his head buried. Instead, he stood by the bench and watched the replay to see what he did so wrong. That is the mark of a superstar who knows he was responsible for the lost point but wants to get better so that it doesn't happen again. That's why he was so talked about. He gets it.
And so, updating the wild Eastern playoff race after the Pens' OT loss and the Isles' 2-1 shootout defeat in the nation's capital:
Eastern Standings
Record Pts GR
*1.Sabres 35-15-4 74 28
*2.Devils 32-15-6 70 29
*3.Thrashers 29-18-8 66 27
4.Canadiens 29-19-6 64 28
5.Senators 30-21-3 63 28
6.Penguins 26-17-9 61 30
7.Lightning 29-23-2 60 28
8.Hurricanes 26-22-7 59 27
________________________________
9.Maple Leafs 26-21-6 58 29
10.Islanders 25-21-7 57 29
11.Rangers 25-23-4 54 30
12.Capitals 22-25-7 51 28
13.Bruins 23-24-4 50 31
14.Panthers 20-24-10 50 28
________________________________
15.Flyers 13-32-7 33 30
But today, the 19 year-old superstar showed his age in a tough 4-3 overtime loss in Montreal. In the extra session thanks to a late Michel Ouellet power play tally, Crosby tried to do too much and win it by himself. Circling around the net with the puck with Habs skating with him, he tried a pass which had no chance. Easily intercepted by my first star Tomas Plekanec (2 goals, assist), he went two-on-one the other way setting up Sheldon Souray's winning blast past a defenseless Marc-Andre Fleury for the winner.
Lesson learned the hard way for the wiz kid. So instead of getting that valuable extra point and pulling within one of fifth in the conference, Crosby's club settled for one point which put the East's current sixth seed at 61 points. Though he failed to extend his team's winning streak to seven, the thing I admired the most was that No.87 didn't just skate off the ice with his head buried. Instead, he stood by the bench and watched the replay to see what he did so wrong. That is the mark of a superstar who knows he was responsible for the lost point but wants to get better so that it doesn't happen again. That's why he was so talked about. He gets it.
And so, updating the wild Eastern playoff race after the Pens' OT loss and the Isles' 2-1 shootout defeat in the nation's capital:
Eastern Standings
Record Pts GR
*1.Sabres 35-15-4 74 28
*2.Devils 32-15-6 70 29
*3.Thrashers 29-18-8 66 27
4.Canadiens 29-19-6 64 28
5.Senators 30-21-3 63 28
6.Penguins 26-17-9 61 30
7.Lightning 29-23-2 60 28
8.Hurricanes 26-22-7 59 27
________________________________
9.Maple Leafs 26-21-6 58 29
10.Islanders 25-21-7 57 29
11.Rangers 25-23-4 54 30
12.Capitals 22-25-7 51 28
13.Bruins 23-24-4 50 31
14.Panthers 20-24-10 50 28
________________________________
15.Flyers 13-32-7 33 30
Sunday Stuff
Yes, it's Super Bowl Sunday finally. But in our world, we don't really care about all that ridiculous overhype for the Lombardi Trophy, which should be changed to the Circus Trophy considering how nuts it's gotten. I recall a time when the game used to mean something to diehard gridiron fans. I remember going over my Uncle's to watch on a big screen with lots of good food, the usual pool and lots of fans. And maybe that still goes on. But let's face it. It's not the same anymore. Kind of reminds me of another sport. The biggest game of the year has become secondary to the outlandish over the top commercials and pregame shows which last longer than the actual game. I no longer watch that stuff because with two weeks of build up, what the heck is the point? Can't they just play already? It's unbelievable that they need two weeks to play this game. This is supposed to be football. A week off should be plenty for these warriors.
Anyway, enough about that. I'll just get to my game breakdown and selection. I'm taking Da Bears to pull the upset of the century. Well according to all the idiots out there, only one team is playing tonight down in Miami. But if you take off the Colts/Peyton colored glasses off for a good minute, that Chicago team who won the NFC isn't exactly bad. They have won 15 games and lost just three mostly because their D is the best in the NFL and their run attack of Thomas Jones and Cedric Benson can control the clock. Just look what they did to the vaunted Saints offense. And believe me, they have as many weapons as the Colts. Do you really believe in your heart of hearts that Joseph Addai and Dominik Rhodes will be able to run on that Bear D the way they rampaged the Pats? I don't. The Bear D line is too quick. There will be few holes. This will force Mr. NFL Spokesman (commercial after commercial) to have to pass more. Sure, he's one of the all-time great quarterbacks and delivers the ball quickly and with tremendous accuracy. But if he has no run game, it won't be easy against that D. I think Brian Urlacher will have a huge game and disrupt the Colts offense. I also think Marvin Harrison, the most overrated top receiver in league history will crow like a little girl when he's blanketed by the Bears' secondary. So that leaves Reggie Wayne and the underrated Dallas Clark. Newsflash: they won't be so wide open against Chicago.
Aside from all that, a lot has been made of Rex Grossman. I admit he's one of the worst QBs to ever play in the big game. But it won't matter. I believe Lovie Smith will outfox Tony Dungy in the first ever all black coached game if you didn't know by now. And the plan will be simple: A page out of the Giants' book against the Bills, a similar explosive offense. Control the line of scrimmage by pounding Benson and Jones. They'll control the clock and shorten up the game and keep the Colt offense off the field and out of rhythm. Take a couple of shots down the field with Grossman to keep them honest. Oh btw...for as average as he is, he throws a nice deep ball.
Here's my final score:
Da Bears Ditka-24
Colts Express- 21
To keep this a little hockey, the Isles and Caps are tied at one in the third while the red hot Pens lead Montreal 2-1 in the second in the only two games today. Good thing they were matinees.
Couple of other things. This coming from today's Larry Brooks' Slap Shots:
Anyway, enough about that. I'll just get to my game breakdown and selection. I'm taking Da Bears to pull the upset of the century. Well according to all the idiots out there, only one team is playing tonight down in Miami. But if you take off the Colts/Peyton colored glasses off for a good minute, that Chicago team who won the NFC isn't exactly bad. They have won 15 games and lost just three mostly because their D is the best in the NFL and their run attack of Thomas Jones and Cedric Benson can control the clock. Just look what they did to the vaunted Saints offense. And believe me, they have as many weapons as the Colts. Do you really believe in your heart of hearts that Joseph Addai and Dominik Rhodes will be able to run on that Bear D the way they rampaged the Pats? I don't. The Bear D line is too quick. There will be few holes. This will force Mr. NFL Spokesman (commercial after commercial) to have to pass more. Sure, he's one of the all-time great quarterbacks and delivers the ball quickly and with tremendous accuracy. But if he has no run game, it won't be easy against that D. I think Brian Urlacher will have a huge game and disrupt the Colts offense. I also think Marvin Harrison, the most overrated top receiver in league history will crow like a little girl when he's blanketed by the Bears' secondary. So that leaves Reggie Wayne and the underrated Dallas Clark. Newsflash: they won't be so wide open against Chicago.
Aside from all that, a lot has been made of Rex Grossman. I admit he's one of the worst QBs to ever play in the big game. But it won't matter. I believe Lovie Smith will outfox Tony Dungy in the first ever all black coached game if you didn't know by now. And the plan will be simple: A page out of the Giants' book against the Bills, a similar explosive offense. Control the line of scrimmage by pounding Benson and Jones. They'll control the clock and shorten up the game and keep the Colt offense off the field and out of rhythm. Take a couple of shots down the field with Grossman to keep them honest. Oh btw...for as average as he is, he throws a nice deep ball.
Here's my final score:
Da Bears Ditka-24
Colts Express- 21
To keep this a little hockey, the Isles and Caps are tied at one in the third while the red hot Pens lead Montreal 2-1 in the second in the only two games today. Good thing they were matinees.
Couple of other things. This coming from today's Larry Brooks' Slap Shots:
Gary Bettman, of whom the outside world finally took disapproving notice this week (the outside world being years behind Slap Shots), continues to defend the NHL's deal with Versus by stating that the network treats the league with far more respect than previous rights-holder ESPN. And the nodding heads surrounding him who hear and see no evil, nod.
Perhaps one day the commissioner actually would like to explain how Versus treats the NHL with more respect than ESPN. Perhaps the commissioner might like to explain why Versus doesn't have a nightly one-hour NHL highlights show, or a nightly one-hour panel show devoted to the NHL.
Perhaps one day the commissioner would like to explain why Versus does not present a half-hour pregame show. Perhaps one day the commissioner would like to present his definition of respect.
Game. Set. Match.
Our Quote of the Day comes courtesty of Montreal veteran defenseman and alternate captain Craig Rivet on the four minors assessed to his team in the rematch against Pittsburgh after the first period:
"You can't complain about calls but I don't agree with a lot of the calls I see today."
Rant Time
I am very frustrated right now with my team. They just don't get it and I'm not sure they ever will as long as that jackass owns them. For a decade now, my family has had a mini-plan to games and I remember when it used to be fun. Newsflash: It's not anymore. The disappointments are endless. The embarrassing losses. The years of not playing a kid enough to know whether or not they can make it for real. The discouraging ways this team has disintegrated in February and March driving their golf clubs in the process. Even last year's feel good season ended in excruciating fashion.
This year, they had these lofty goals to become a serious contender by adding Shanahan, Cullen and Ward in the offseason. On paper, it sounded good. Finally some North American grit to help out our Europeans and Jagr. But as the season wore on, anyone could see the proverbial writing on the wall. This club was still not good enough and way too soft. And with no real No.2 pivot or shutdown defenseman, opponents knew exactly how to solve the one-dimensional Rangers. Neutralize the Jagr line, play physical and go to the net.
The right ingredients have been missing all year. Now, they're probably about to make a monumental mistake which is typical of this franchise and probably trade away a couple of prospects and picks for a star player. As if that's going to change the plight of this failed season and magically turn it into a contender. To echo again what Steve concluded last week: Brett Hull is a moron! Sadly, I bet the idiot owner watched and saw what the outspoken Hall of Fame finisher said and believed it cause he still believes Isiah Thomas is a candidate for NBA Coach of the Year. And that's just part of the problem.
Want the other aspect? Here was some of my rant to one of my Devil friends about this freaking organization who always fails on promises:
Kovy274Hart [12:11 AM]: they never give kids a chance
Kovy274Hart [12:12 AM]: they never draft good enough
Kovy274Hart [12:12 AM]: Parise should be our's
Kovy274Hart [12:12 AM]: f****** idiots
Kovy274Hart [12:12 AM]: Zajac should be on our team
Kovy274Hart [12:13 AM]: but no
Kovy274Hart [12:13 AM]: they are so stupid
Kovy274Hart [12:13 AM]: everything is always a spin
Kovy274Hart [12:13 AM]: "Well he was on our radar and we liked him but so and so brings more intangibles..."
Kovy274Hart [12:13 AM]: or some other bs excuse
Aside from that, the games have become a circus reminder of what MSG has become. I don't need to see the stick kid every period or someone riding the zamboni. I didn't come for them to overpromote their Garden of Dreams PR bs or whatever shameless promotions they got. Just shut the f*** up! I am fed up with them showing features on the Rangers being used as models. They're not even models in their own damn league! Bastards. They made the playoffs one season and suddenly, they're great. Bull crap! This was the season where the test would come and guess what dumb block of an owner and Garden management: YOU FAILED!!!!!
You have lied to the fans. Want to hear how clueless they are? A diehard fan who has gone to games for years and sat in our section told us that if they made the playoffs, they were only going to offer one home game per round. One game! The nerve! That's someone as loyal as it gets who has gone for over 25 years. It's almost better they lose. This is what you get. If they get in, prices are going up and they'll probably force ticketholders to upgrade to full season pass just to get any sort of playoff rights. Sad thing is you can find tickets for almost any game. They are living a lie.
I don't think I want to go to anymore games in any future years until the management changes. I can watch at home and find other things to do.
Rant over.
This year, they had these lofty goals to become a serious contender by adding Shanahan, Cullen and Ward in the offseason. On paper, it sounded good. Finally some North American grit to help out our Europeans and Jagr. But as the season wore on, anyone could see the proverbial writing on the wall. This club was still not good enough and way too soft. And with no real No.2 pivot or shutdown defenseman, opponents knew exactly how to solve the one-dimensional Rangers. Neutralize the Jagr line, play physical and go to the net.
The right ingredients have been missing all year. Now, they're probably about to make a monumental mistake which is typical of this franchise and probably trade away a couple of prospects and picks for a star player. As if that's going to change the plight of this failed season and magically turn it into a contender. To echo again what Steve concluded last week: Brett Hull is a moron! Sadly, I bet the idiot owner watched and saw what the outspoken Hall of Fame finisher said and believed it cause he still believes Isiah Thomas is a candidate for NBA Coach of the Year. And that's just part of the problem.
Want the other aspect? Here was some of my rant to one of my Devil friends about this freaking organization who always fails on promises:
Kovy274Hart [12:11 AM]: they never give kids a chance
Kovy274Hart [12:12 AM]: they never draft good enough
Kovy274Hart [12:12 AM]: Parise should be our's
Kovy274Hart [12:12 AM]: f****** idiots
Kovy274Hart [12:12 AM]: Zajac should be on our team
Kovy274Hart [12:13 AM]: but no
Kovy274Hart [12:13 AM]: they are so stupid
Kovy274Hart [12:13 AM]: everything is always a spin
Kovy274Hart [12:13 AM]: "Well he was on our radar and we liked him but so and so brings more intangibles..."
Kovy274Hart [12:13 AM]: or some other bs excuse
Aside from that, the games have become a circus reminder of what MSG has become. I don't need to see the stick kid every period or someone riding the zamboni. I didn't come for them to overpromote their Garden of Dreams PR bs or whatever shameless promotions they got. Just shut the f*** up! I am fed up with them showing features on the Rangers being used as models. They're not even models in their own damn league! Bastards. They made the playoffs one season and suddenly, they're great. Bull crap! This was the season where the test would come and guess what dumb block of an owner and Garden management: YOU FAILED!!!!!
You have lied to the fans. Want to hear how clueless they are? A diehard fan who has gone to games for years and sat in our section told us that if they made the playoffs, they were only going to offer one home game per round. One game! The nerve! That's someone as loyal as it gets who has gone for over 25 years. It's almost better they lose. This is what you get. If they get in, prices are going up and they'll probably force ticketholders to upgrade to full season pass just to get any sort of playoff rights. Sad thing is you can find tickets for almost any game. They are living a lie.
I don't think I want to go to anymore games in any future years until the management changes. I can watch at home and find other things to do.
Rant over.
Some Comfort
We still own hockey on national TV. That won't change for a loooooong time.
Or maybe they'll get smart and realize they got a 1.3 from 4 western teams and a 1.0 from 4 eastern teams on 1/28 and 1/13.
As for New Yorkers, it's still 17 combined games we have to wait till' 3:55 to watch in Standard Def.
I'm curious to see what waiting until 3:30 will do for hockey. On a Sunday it works, because people do a lot on Sunday morning, and come home and watch sports the rest of the day. So I feel February 11 for the Devils and the 18th for the Rangers will be no different.
But Saturday? Please.
Or maybe they'll get smart and realize they got a 1.3 from 4 western teams and a 1.0 from 4 eastern teams on 1/28 and 1/13.
As for New Yorkers, it's still 17 combined games we have to wait till' 3:55 to watch in Standard Def.
I'm curious to see what waiting until 3:30 will do for hockey. On a Sunday it works, because people do a lot on Sunday morning, and come home and watch sports the rest of the day. So I feel February 11 for the Devils and the 18th for the Rangers will be no different.
But Saturday? Please.
Saturday, February 3, 2007
Wow
I'm speechless at that rant Steve and totally agree. Moving the games to that time in this zone is horrible. Who wants to waste away their whole day watching a game instead of taking advantage of the outdoors?
You know what this is about, right? The same thing that the stupid freaking NFL has done to us and paying customers. Moving games later and later to make it easier for the West Coast. We may as well not even count anymore. The disrespect is sad. Anything to inconvenience the Eastern time zone. I'm telling you man. One day a vast majority who live in this zone aren't going to care enough to tune in. And maybe then they'll learn their lesson.
You know what this is about, right? The same thing that the stupid freaking NFL has done to us and paying customers. Moving games later and later to make it easier for the West Coast. We may as well not even count anymore. The disrespect is sad. Anything to inconvenience the Eastern time zone. I'm telling you man. One day a vast majority who live in this zone aren't going to care enough to tune in. And maybe then they'll learn their lesson.
The MLB On FOX: Making You Dumber By the Week
Some off-hockey stuff, and because I had no where else to whine about this and Wyshynski's never on AIM on weekends and no one else but the people who read this will listen to this rant:
How retarded is MLB On Fox?
First of all, how often is a game in HD? Baseball is even slower to adapt than the NHL!
Secondly, it's not a national TV package if you air 26 weeks of coverage, 2-3 games regionally each week, and don't include 7 teams at all (Baltimore, Cleveland, Milwaukee, Tampa, Toronto, Kansas City, Pittsburgh).
Third, dropping one game and moving every telecast to 3:55 PM on Saturdays. Three-Fifty-Five. I do not want to watch a ball game at 3:55!
Here's the schedule, as I point out stupidities along the way
(NOTE: ALL GAMES START AT 3:55 P.M. ET, Pre-game at 3:30 P.M. ET, TWIB airs at 3)
April 7
NYM vs. ATL
MIN vs. CWS
LAD vs. SF
April 14
HOU vs. PHI
LAA vs. BOS
TEX vs. SEA
April 21
NYY vs. BOS
STL vs. CHC
April 28
BOS vs. NYY
CHC vs. STL (This is not a mistake)
May 5
CWS vs. LAA
PHI vs. SF
SEA vs. NYY
May 12
DET vs. MIN
CHC vs. PHI
LAA vs. TEX
May 19
NYY vs. NYM
CWS vs. CHC (Only 1 game in both series will air on Fox this year)
May 26
BOS vs. TEX
CHC vs. LAD
PHI vs. ATL
June 2
NYY vs. BOS (Were up to 3 on the BOS-Yanks count)
STL vs. HOU
June 9
NYM vs. DET
HOU vs. CWS
OAK vs. SF
June 16
SF vs. BOS
LAA vs. LAD
DET vs. PHI
June 23
NYY vs. SF
PHI vs. STL
HOU vs. TEX
June 30
NYM vs. PHI
MIN vs. DET
COL vs. HOU
July 7
LAA vs. NYY
ATL vs. SD
MIN vs. CWS
July 14
HOU vs. CHC
STL vs. PHI
LAD vs. SF
July 21
NYM vs. LAD
CWS vs. BOS
COL vs. WSH
July 28
SD vs. HOU
DET vs. LAA
ATL vs. ARZ
August 4
NYM vs. CHC
LAA vs. OAK
COL vs. ATL
August 11
LAD vs. STL
OAK vs. DET
SD vs. CIN
August 18
DET vs. NYY
STL vs. CHC (Up to 3 times for this game)
August 25
LAD vs. NYM
BOS vs. CWS
September 1
NYM vs. ATL
DET vs. OAK
TEX vs. LAA
September 8
MIN vs. CWS
LAD vs. SF
FLA vs. PHI
September 15
NYY vs. BOS (4th Time)
CHC vs. STL (4th Time)
TEX vs. OAK
September 22 & 29 are flex scheduling dates.
How retarded is MLB On Fox?
First of all, how often is a game in HD? Baseball is even slower to adapt than the NHL!
Secondly, it's not a national TV package if you air 26 weeks of coverage, 2-3 games regionally each week, and don't include 7 teams at all (Baltimore, Cleveland, Milwaukee, Tampa, Toronto, Kansas City, Pittsburgh).
Third, dropping one game and moving every telecast to 3:55 PM on Saturdays. Three-Fifty-Five. I do not want to watch a ball game at 3:55!
Here's the schedule, as I point out stupidities along the way
(NOTE: ALL GAMES START AT 3:55 P.M. ET, Pre-game at 3:30 P.M. ET, TWIB airs at 3)
April 7
NYM vs. ATL
MIN vs. CWS
LAD vs. SF
April 14
HOU vs. PHI
LAA vs. BOS
TEX vs. SEA
April 21
NYY vs. BOS
STL vs. CHC
April 28
BOS vs. NYY
CHC vs. STL (This is not a mistake)
May 5
CWS vs. LAA
PHI vs. SF
SEA vs. NYY
May 12
DET vs. MIN
CHC vs. PHI
LAA vs. TEX
May 19
NYY vs. NYM
CWS vs. CHC (Only 1 game in both series will air on Fox this year)
May 26
BOS vs. TEX
CHC vs. LAD
PHI vs. ATL
June 2
NYY vs. BOS (Were up to 3 on the BOS-Yanks count)
STL vs. HOU
June 9
NYM vs. DET
HOU vs. CWS
OAK vs. SF
June 16
SF vs. BOS
LAA vs. LAD
DET vs. PHI
June 23
NYY vs. SF
PHI vs. STL
HOU vs. TEX
June 30
NYM vs. PHI
MIN vs. DET
COL vs. HOU
July 7
LAA vs. NYY
ATL vs. SD
MIN vs. CWS
July 14
HOU vs. CHC
STL vs. PHI
LAD vs. SF
July 21
NYM vs. LAD
CWS vs. BOS
COL vs. WSH
July 28
SD vs. HOU
DET vs. LAA
ATL vs. ARZ
August 4
NYM vs. CHC
LAA vs. OAK
COL vs. ATL
August 11
LAD vs. STL
OAK vs. DET
SD vs. CIN
August 18
DET vs. NYY
STL vs. CHC (Up to 3 times for this game)
August 25
LAD vs. NYM
BOS vs. CWS
September 1
NYM vs. ATL
DET vs. OAK
TEX vs. LAA
September 8
MIN vs. CWS
LAD vs. SF
FLA vs. PHI
September 15
NYY vs. BOS (4th Time)
CHC vs. STL (4th Time)
TEX vs. OAK
September 22 & 29 are flex scheduling dates.
Gotcha
I wasn't thinking of that Jamie. But rather your Jamie who sometimes a few impatient fans complain about when he's not finishing. I always wanted him on the Rangers. Naturally, they instead wound up with Todd "Heartbeat" Harvey. He was a hard worker but his game took too much of a pounding. I always was a huge Langenbrunner fan and am not surprised by how vital he's become in New Jersey. The definition of interchangeable.
As for Lundmark, I'm like you. I used to live in Connecticut and saw him dominate a few games for the Pack. I thought he had a future as a player. Then the Rangers mismanaged him. He finished his rookie year strong but then wound up buried on the fourth line thanks to the vet pivots in front (Lindros, Holik, Messier). He wound up lost in the shuffle and predictably lost confidence. He then was relocated to Phoenix for Jeff freaking Taffe. Is he even in hockey anymore? Then wound up with Calgary where he was a fourth liner. Now he's on his fourth team and I believe is 26 already. Good god. How time flies.
At ths juncture, I can't see him being more than a support player Steve. If he did better, that would be a great accomplishment.
As for Lundmark, I'm like you. I used to live in Connecticut and saw him dominate a few games for the Pack. I thought he had a future as a player. Then the Rangers mismanaged him. He finished his rookie year strong but then wound up buried on the fourth line thanks to the vet pivots in front (Lindros, Holik, Messier). He wound up lost in the shuffle and predictably lost confidence. He then was relocated to Phoenix for Jeff freaking Taffe. Is he even in hockey anymore? Then wound up with Calgary where he was a fourth liner. Now he's on his fourth team and I believe is 26 already. Good god. How time flies.
At ths juncture, I can't see him being more than a support player Steve. If he did better, that would be a great accomplishment.
You Didn't See?
Jamie was in the Conroy deal. And I always thought Jamie had potential, but now it seems to have become wasted on about 6 teams.
Hearing of Lundmark's potential, that's what listening to too much Steve Somers pre-lockout (When hockey was a big part of his show) does to you.
I don't know about an online debut yet. Tell you what, I will only go on under the name "Eklund".
I'd love to do more YouTube videos, but I think with so much regulated NHL YouTubbery, it's gotten harder to find something truly cool.
Hearing of Lundmark's potential, that's what listening to too much Steve Somers pre-lockout (When hockey was a big part of his show) does to you.
I don't know about an online debut yet. Tell you what, I will only go on under the name "Eklund".
I'd love to do more YouTube videos, but I think with so much regulated NHL YouTubbery, it's gotten harder to find something truly cool.
Question for Steve
What does the trade Jamie to LA thing mean? Where the heck did that come from? I think I know and it makes me smile. I guess some things never change, huh?
Hey buddy. I wanted to get your opinion on maybe adding a YouTube video of the week. It could be a great goal or great save or even a great scrap or hit. Maybe we can have a local play if there is one and a league one as well. I'm thinking of ways to make this place even better for everyone who reads it.
Also, are you interested in maybe coming on a future show? I might be having my own show courtesy of blogtalkradio. Maybe one night for a seg, we can discuss the locals' plight as well as the Eastern race between the Sabres and Devils along with trade rumors. This could be your chance to debut and maybe also plug our site. It's your call.
Regarding your point on the difference between the Devs, Isles and Rangers, I couldn't agree more. The Islanders showed me a lot as well. The question is will they win enough to get in. Carolina got a point in an OT loss to Boston which puts them at 59, one ahead of Toronto and three ahead of the Islanders. The Rangers sit five out. At this point, many are agreeing they should become sellers. We've seen this script before. This team just isn't good enough. Renney refuses to break up the top line and give Shanahan a real center. If he moved Hossa up with Straka and Jagr, that line wouldn't lose much. Sticking Nylander with Shanny would make a huge difference. But the coach has no guts. In any event, our D is horrible now without Malik and Rozsival. And the coach only played Dan Girardi a shade under 12:00. That is crazy. He shows more than the others.
Hey buddy. I wanted to get your opinion on maybe adding a YouTube video of the week. It could be a great goal or great save or even a great scrap or hit. Maybe we can have a local play if there is one and a league one as well. I'm thinking of ways to make this place even better for everyone who reads it.
Also, are you interested in maybe coming on a future show? I might be having my own show courtesy of blogtalkradio. Maybe one night for a seg, we can discuss the locals' plight as well as the Eastern race between the Sabres and Devils along with trade rumors. This could be your chance to debut and maybe also plug our site. It's your call.
Regarding your point on the difference between the Devs, Isles and Rangers, I couldn't agree more. The Islanders showed me a lot as well. The question is will they win enough to get in. Carolina got a point in an OT loss to Boston which puts them at 59, one ahead of Toronto and three ahead of the Islanders. The Rangers sit five out. At this point, many are agreeing they should become sellers. We've seen this script before. This team just isn't good enough. Renney refuses to break up the top line and give Shanahan a real center. If he moved Hossa up with Straka and Jagr, that line wouldn't lose much. Sticking Nylander with Shanny would make a huge difference. But the coach has no guts. In any event, our D is horrible now without Malik and Rozsival. And the coach only played Dan Girardi a shade under 12:00. That is crazy. He shows more than the others.
Frustration Boils Over
Here were some comments about the officiating in the Ranger-Lightning game in which way too many questionable penalties were called which begged the question has the league gone too far:
"WTF!!!!! ARE YOU F'ing KIDDING ME? HOW DID HE HOOK?"
"This league is bullsh1t. I'm out."
"You can thank Mr Bettman for that.
Cannot watch this garbage anymore. The refs have ruined a great game. I'm done. That was the last straw. I'll be back when Bettman is either dead or fired, or when they straighten this game out."
"Win lose or draw I'm done too..this isn't the hockey I grew up with and this year it always seems the rangers are at the wrong end."
I never thought that things would get this bad. But it is disturbing when you look at almost every boxscore and notice all the penalties. The officials are far from perfect. But if they're going to continue to make every call at this rate, it will continue to slow down the game to a crawl. A perfect example. The Rangers-Lightning game was at least five minutes ahead of the Buffalo-New Jersey one due to the Devils honoring their past players from the 1995 Cup team. By the end of the night though even with the officials combining for 10 or 11 minors in that Devil game, it actually concluded before the game in St. Petersburg. Both games were decided by a goal. But one had more stoppages which hurt the flow. Many traditionalists I spoke too last year who weren't in favor of the tacky obstruction calls would evolve into. A year later, they look prophetic. The biggest question is how will it be called this Spring? I am not sure.
I really feel it's time for the league to get a new commisioner who is in tune with what needs to be done to address these issues along with other things which have been pointed out a lot. Bettman has had his reign. He has failed miserably. I am very down on what's gone on. This isn't the sport it was. The diehards love battles in the corners for loose pucks. Me personally, I like when a player works his ass off to draw a legit penalty. And what I mean by that is they have possession of the puck, make a move and then get hooked or held and the arm comes up. It seems to me that they're rewarding the guys who go down more than the guys who skate through that crap. Isn't that what they put the rules in there for? To reward the guys who battle and don't flop to the ice. If they're being impeded, fine. But if it's a small hook which has no effect, it shouldn't be called.
We've seen ups and downs regarding this league the past two years. It's upsetting to see passionate fans so disenchanted with the product that they're ready to throw in the towel. I love the sport and I'm sure they do too. But they're older than myself and have seen a much different game change a lot through the years. How can it be fixed? I'll continue to watch because that's part of my responsibility. If I didn't write or take part in an internet show, I'll admit that my interest might dwindle as well.
I'm lost. We really need to get Greg Wyshynski on our show Wednesday and see what he has to say. He is a diehard Devil fan but also a very knowledgable writer who knows the game and understands what's wrong as well. He has a Devils book coming out I believe soon. Hopefully, we can land him as a guest and discuss the game as well as how close that book is to finally being out.
"WTF!!!!! ARE YOU F'ing KIDDING ME? HOW DID HE HOOK?"
"This league is bullsh1t. I'm out."
"You can thank Mr Bettman for that.
Cannot watch this garbage anymore. The refs have ruined a great game. I'm done. That was the last straw. I'll be back when Bettman is either dead or fired, or when they straighten this game out."
"Win lose or draw I'm done too..this isn't the hockey I grew up with and this year it always seems the rangers are at the wrong end."
I never thought that things would get this bad. But it is disturbing when you look at almost every boxscore and notice all the penalties. The officials are far from perfect. But if they're going to continue to make every call at this rate, it will continue to slow down the game to a crawl. A perfect example. The Rangers-Lightning game was at least five minutes ahead of the Buffalo-New Jersey one due to the Devils honoring their past players from the 1995 Cup team. By the end of the night though even with the officials combining for 10 or 11 minors in that Devil game, it actually concluded before the game in St. Petersburg. Both games were decided by a goal. But one had more stoppages which hurt the flow. Many traditionalists I spoke too last year who weren't in favor of the tacky obstruction calls would evolve into. A year later, they look prophetic. The biggest question is how will it be called this Spring? I am not sure.
I really feel it's time for the league to get a new commisioner who is in tune with what needs to be done to address these issues along with other things which have been pointed out a lot. Bettman has had his reign. He has failed miserably. I am very down on what's gone on. This isn't the sport it was. The diehards love battles in the corners for loose pucks. Me personally, I like when a player works his ass off to draw a legit penalty. And what I mean by that is they have possession of the puck, make a move and then get hooked or held and the arm comes up. It seems to me that they're rewarding the guys who go down more than the guys who skate through that crap. Isn't that what they put the rules in there for? To reward the guys who battle and don't flop to the ice. If they're being impeded, fine. But if it's a small hook which has no effect, it shouldn't be called.
We've seen ups and downs regarding this league the past two years. It's upsetting to see passionate fans so disenchanted with the product that they're ready to throw in the towel. I love the sport and I'm sure they do too. But they're older than myself and have seen a much different game change a lot through the years. How can it be fixed? I'll continue to watch because that's part of my responsibility. If I didn't write or take part in an internet show, I'll admit that my interest might dwindle as well.
I'm lost. We really need to get Greg Wyshynski on our show Wednesday and see what he has to say. He is a diehard Devil fan but also a very knowledgable writer who knows the game and understands what's wrong as well. He has a Devils book coming out I believe soon. Hopefully, we can land him as a guest and discuss the game as well as how close that book is to finally being out.
Good For Jamie
Maybe the trade to LA will unleash his poten....oh even Derek probably couldn't get through that sentence without laughing.
It's the second game this year they've done it. Was there a basketball game or something?
It does suck enough to be a goalie, especially in this incarnation of hockey, so anything that seems close to wronging you is right.
The Devils played exciting hockey the entire third. No really, they did. It was fun and fast-paced.
Sellout on Tuesday perhaps?
It's the second game this year they've done it. Was there a basketball game or something?
It does suck enough to be a goalie, especially in this incarnation of hockey, so anything that seems close to wronging you is right.
The Devils played exciting hockey the entire third. No really, they did. It was fun and fast-paced.
Sellout on Tuesday perhaps?
The Difference
Between the Devils and Islanders, and the Rangers, is that, because of their styles of play, you feel NJ and Long Island could take any team in the playoffs in a 7-game series.
With the Rangers, it looks like they might just fall back in 4 again.
You know they'll do something stupid at the deadline though.
The Isles were very impressive today. I will never count this team out because of Ted Nolan.
At the Moment:
Team-PTS
1.BUF-74
2.NJ-70
3.ATL-66
------------
4.OTT-63
5.MTL-62
6.PIT-60
7.TB-60
8.CAR-58 and Tied at the Moment in their game with Boston
------------
9.TOR-58
10.NYI-56
11.NYR-54
12.FLA-50
13.WSH-49
14.BOS-48 and Tied at the Moment with CAR.
15.PHI-33
Islanders win in Washington tomorrow, and Carolina loses tonight, the Islanders will be tied with the 2 and have a game in hand on them, in fact, 3 on the Whaler-Canes. If only they'd show up to play Carolina on that night in Raleigh they got dumped on, they might be in playoff position.
Two good games tomorrow. Washington probably needs to win this one to stay in the race, and the Islanders can do what was said above with a win. Derek correctly set up the Pens-Habs game, which will be on national TV in Canada, but not webcast on Comcast or Yahoo. Shame.
With the Rangers, it looks like they might just fall back in 4 again.
You know they'll do something stupid at the deadline though.
The Isles were very impressive today. I will never count this team out because of Ted Nolan.
At the Moment:
Team-PTS
1.BUF-74
2.NJ-70
3.ATL-66
------------
4.OTT-63
5.MTL-62
6.PIT-60
7.TB-60
8.CAR-58 and Tied at the Moment in their game with Boston
------------
9.TOR-58
10.NYI-56
11.NYR-54
12.FLA-50
13.WSH-49
14.BOS-48 and Tied at the Moment with CAR.
15.PHI-33
Islanders win in Washington tomorrow, and Carolina loses tonight, the Islanders will be tied with the 2 and have a game in hand on them, in fact, 3 on the Whaler-Canes. If only they'd show up to play Carolina on that night in Raleigh they got dumped on, they might be in playoff position.
Two good games tomorrow. Washington probably needs to win this one to stay in the race, and the Islanders can do what was said above with a win. Derek correctly set up the Pens-Habs game, which will be on national TV in Canada, but not webcast on Comcast or Yahoo. Shame.
Miller
I could understand his frustration as that goal was a crusher which certainly turned the tide. And btw...you and I both know that if that happened to Brodeur, he'd be furious. Goalies usually do get pretty hot on plays like that. Just go back to Mike Richter when Zelepukin legally tied Game 7 to force OT. There was nothing illegal done. But his frustration boiled over at Bill McCreary over what was a good non-call. You will usually see goalies complain whenever there's a player in front like that and a goal is scored.
I can't really comment for what happened after that as I didn't see the next two goals. I'll just assume that it was the Devils' puck domination which got them that one break you referred to and the eventual winner.
A congrats to the Devils on honoring their first ever Stanley Cup team, the 1995 Devils.
There are two other huge games taking place. Nashville leads Anaheim 2-0 with 5 and change left. If they win, their lead is five. Chris Pronger is back for the Ducks but it hasn't mattered. In a Northwestern first place battle in Alberta, Vancouver and Calgary are scoreless five minutes in.
Other games of note:
-The Leafs win again, defeating the Senators in a shootout 3-2 to reach 58 points.
-The Hurricanes and Bruins are tied at two headed to the third. Any reason why this one started so late? If Carolina loses, they fall behind Tampa for eighth.
-Flyers surprise Atlanta 5-2. They scored the last four in the third. Btw...Forsberg got 2nd star.
-Kings smother Florida 7-0. Yes, Jamie Lundmark tallied his first of the season. Oh my.
I can't really comment for what happened after that as I didn't see the next two goals. I'll just assume that it was the Devils' puck domination which got them that one break you referred to and the eventual winner.
A congrats to the Devils on honoring their first ever Stanley Cup team, the 1995 Devils.
There are two other huge games taking place. Nashville leads Anaheim 2-0 with 5 and change left. If they win, their lead is five. Chris Pronger is back for the Ducks but it hasn't mattered. In a Northwestern first place battle in Alberta, Vancouver and Calgary are scoreless five minutes in.
Other games of note:
-The Leafs win again, defeating the Senators in a shootout 3-2 to reach 58 points.
-The Hurricanes and Bruins are tied at two headed to the third. Any reason why this one started so late? If Carolina loses, they fall behind Tampa for eighth.
-Flyers surprise Atlanta 5-2. They scored the last four in the third. Btw...Forsberg got 2nd star.
-Kings smother Florida 7-0. Yes, Jamie Lundmark tallied his first of the season. Oh my.
Devils Win
Who cares? We all know in our heart of hearts Marty is, and Miller whined about that Madden goal to know end, so it was appropriate.
Reminder, these are never the most accurate fans (see Better, Parise's) but they always mean well and are always emphatic when they want to make a point. Miller's complaining annoyed them, so they chanted Marty's name.
18,589 at The Swamp tonight to watch NJ beat the #1 team in the East. This I believe, is the third "Newark Sellout" or a game that's attendence will sellout the Newark Arena. Biggest crowd of the year, partially due to the Buffalo traveling circus, and frankly, the other half to see Valeri Zelepukin again.
It was made 1-0 in the 1st on a sweet little goal from Chris Drury going around the net. I'll ignore the non-goal goal and refer you to Derek's post. The score remained such until the third, where John Madden jammed away at Ryan Miller until the puck went in. He clearly didn't have possesion. Ryan's gotta' get the glove glued to the ice!
Miller did have a bad break on Jamie Langenbrunner's goal. He sent one in front for Parise and it went off a leg in front and riccoched in. Then Parise just rifled a wrister for big #20, a great milestone for The Zach. Teppo Numminen (Hello, Numminen. Hello, Jerry) got his first of the year late, but the Devils prevailed in front of a large crowd, 3-2.
Speaking of Newark, enjoy this video:
http://www.sportsnetamerica.tv/flvplayer.swf?file=http://www.sportsnetamerica.tv/flvideo/73.flv&autostart=true&showfsbutton=true?file=http://www.sportsnetamerica.tv/flvideo/73.flv&autostart=true&fs=true
javascript:void(0)
Sweet.
Reminder, these are never the most accurate fans (see Better, Parise's) but they always mean well and are always emphatic when they want to make a point. Miller's complaining annoyed them, so they chanted Marty's name.
18,589 at The Swamp tonight to watch NJ beat the #1 team in the East. This I believe, is the third "Newark Sellout" or a game that's attendence will sellout the Newark Arena. Biggest crowd of the year, partially due to the Buffalo traveling circus, and frankly, the other half to see Valeri Zelepukin again.
It was made 1-0 in the 1st on a sweet little goal from Chris Drury going around the net. I'll ignore the non-goal goal and refer you to Derek's post. The score remained such until the third, where John Madden jammed away at Ryan Miller until the puck went in. He clearly didn't have possesion. Ryan's gotta' get the glove glued to the ice!
Miller did have a bad break on Jamie Langenbrunner's goal. He sent one in front for Parise and it went off a leg in front and riccoched in. Then Parise just rifled a wrister for big #20, a great milestone for The Zach. Teppo Numminen (Hello, Numminen. Hello, Jerry) got his first of the year late, but the Devils prevailed in front of a large crowd, 3-2.
Speaking of Newark, enjoy this video:
http://www.sportsnetamerica.tv/flvplayer.swf?file=http://www.sportsnetamerica.tv/flvideo/73.flv&autostart=true&showfsbutton=true?file=http://www.sportsnetamerica.tv/flvideo/73.flv&autostart=true&fs=true
javascript:void(0)
Sweet.
As Predicted
I got the Sabres-Devils game right. I said 3-2. I just didn't say who would win. Teppo Numminen gave Buffalo life with under 5:00 left but the Devils were just too good in their end to allow the Sabres to tie a game they had no business being in.
How dominant were the Devs in the third? Aside from the three goals they got to turn the tide, they peppered Miller with 15 shots while Brodeur only saw five. Brodeur btw only needed to make 15 saves for his NHL-leading 32nd victory while counterpart Miller stopped 34. Did Chico say anything about this Steve? About all the saves Miller made to at least give his team a chance?
Stars from this one:
Madden, who stuffed home the tying goal
Langenbrunner, who scored his 18th goal and assisted on another
Parise, who scored the winner and notched an assist
The Devs are now four behind Buffalo for first in the East with both remaining contests left at HSBC Arena.
Lightning btw finish off the Rangers, who should've been beaten much worse if not for Henrik Lundqvist (38 saves). Tom Renney's undisciplined club was called for 10 penalties in response to Shanahan's plea. Meanwhile, the Lightning were called for half that. But they were the superior team. Why? Cause they're a playoff calibre team who has younger legs and is more detail oriented. Hey coach! You get a late power play and your PP is nothing to write home about. So pull the goalie for a 6-on-4 right away, right? Wrong. You wait until there's less than a minute and never even get a shot. That btw sums up this Broadway Blueshirt edition. They suck.
My new motto: Lottery here we come!
If this team were smart, they'd trade some of the players as the deadline nears. Six points out and fading much like the other seven Ranger teams which failed from 1998-04. My plan would be simple:
Michael Nylander- gone
Marek Malik- gone
Brendan Shanahan- gone
Karel Rachunek- don't let the door hit ya on the way out
Kevin Weekes- gone
These are some of the players who they should consider moving. You can even workout handshake agreements with Shanny and Nylander if they want to comeback. It's time to get what you can for them. The golf course awaits.
How dominant were the Devs in the third? Aside from the three goals they got to turn the tide, they peppered Miller with 15 shots while Brodeur only saw five. Brodeur btw only needed to make 15 saves for his NHL-leading 32nd victory while counterpart Miller stopped 34. Did Chico say anything about this Steve? About all the saves Miller made to at least give his team a chance?
Stars from this one:
Madden, who stuffed home the tying goal
Langenbrunner, who scored his 18th goal and assisted on another
Parise, who scored the winner and notched an assist
The Devs are now four behind Buffalo for first in the East with both remaining contests left at HSBC Arena.
Lightning btw finish off the Rangers, who should've been beaten much worse if not for Henrik Lundqvist (38 saves). Tom Renney's undisciplined club was called for 10 penalties in response to Shanahan's plea. Meanwhile, the Lightning were called for half that. But they were the superior team. Why? Cause they're a playoff calibre team who has younger legs and is more detail oriented. Hey coach! You get a late power play and your PP is nothing to write home about. So pull the goalie for a 6-on-4 right away, right? Wrong. You wait until there's less than a minute and never even get a shot. That btw sums up this Broadway Blueshirt edition. They suck.
My new motto: Lottery here we come!
If this team were smart, they'd trade some of the players as the deadline nears. Six points out and fading much like the other seven Ranger teams which failed from 1998-04. My plan would be simple:
Michael Nylander- gone
Marek Malik- gone
Brendan Shanahan- gone
Karel Rachunek- don't let the door hit ya on the way out
Kevin Weekes- gone
These are some of the players who they should consider moving. You can even workout handshake agreements with Shanny and Nylander if they want to comeback. It's time to get what you can for them. The golf course awaits.
A Point
About how paranoid a few Swamp fans are. Their team came ready and has dominated the third period scoring three goals in less than a 4:00 span to control things up 3-1 against Buffalo.
And there they are making the obligatory chant, "Marty's Better."
Oh really? How many shots has he faced tonight? 14. Meanwhile, Ryan Miller who was 1st Star the last time these two teams met has already faced 32. And shots are 10-2 in the third as Miller's team decided not to show thinking they had it wrapped up apparently.
If not for Miller despite the commentary from Doc and Chico that the teams were evenly matched defensively, it would've been about 8-1 because that's how many holes were in that Buffalo D. Two words guys. Swiss cheese. How many break-ins did Zach Parise have in the first two periods? Or how many wide open Devils were there in front Steve? If you watched, then you know what I'm talking about.
Meanwhile, the Rangers are on their way to another defeat. Oh. They were in the game but the Lightning have surged ahead thanks to power plays. I wonder if Shanahan regrets complaining about how Jagr is treated yet. It's 7-2 Lightning on the PP and they are up because of it. Btw...Jagr hasn't drawn anything either. So it hasn't helped.
P.S. The Ranger D has been just as brutal as predicted. Only Daniel Girardi has looked reliable.
Stat of the Night coming from CAA: 6 of the 7 Buffalo penalties are hooking. 8 of 10 btw in that game are hooking. That's the new NHL for ya.
And there they are making the obligatory chant, "Marty's Better."
Oh really? How many shots has he faced tonight? 14. Meanwhile, Ryan Miller who was 1st Star the last time these two teams met has already faced 32. And shots are 10-2 in the third as Miller's team decided not to show thinking they had it wrapped up apparently.
If not for Miller despite the commentary from Doc and Chico that the teams were evenly matched defensively, it would've been about 8-1 because that's how many holes were in that Buffalo D. Two words guys. Swiss cheese. How many break-ins did Zach Parise have in the first two periods? Or how many wide open Devils were there in front Steve? If you watched, then you know what I'm talking about.
Meanwhile, the Rangers are on their way to another defeat. Oh. They were in the game but the Lightning have surged ahead thanks to power plays. I wonder if Shanahan regrets complaining about how Jagr is treated yet. It's 7-2 Lightning on the PP and they are up because of it. Btw...Jagr hasn't drawn anything either. So it hasn't helped.
P.S. The Ranger D has been just as brutal as predicted. Only Daniel Girardi has looked reliable.
Stat of the Night coming from CAA: 6 of the 7 Buffalo penalties are hooking. 8 of 10 btw in that game are hooking. That's the new NHL for ya.
Unbelievable
That's it in a nutshell folks! In two games that involve metro area teams it's on display yet again how pathetic this league has become. Whatever happened to passion? Battles anyone? Nowhere to be found. And why? Because this new NHL which I and many others advocated is nothing but an utter disgrace!
I have had enough of the ticky tac garbage calls that that freaking nerd's corporate sponsors want in the game. Hockey is not that kind of game. This isn't the NBA where every handcheck or shove is called for the game's stars. Hockey is a game of intense competition. It's skating. It's fastpaced play. It's hitting. It's backchecking. But when you see what's gone on tonight, it's not there.
Before I make a couple of observations from the Rangers-Lightning game which is knotted at two apiece after two thanks to a Michael Nylander power play tally late, I want to point to the Sabres-Devils Eastern battle taking place at The Meadowlands. I've caught most of that as well between breaks and such. In the first, Buffalo again got superior netminding from Ryan Miller (15 saves) and a timely goal from the red hot Chris Drury (30th of season) to go ahead. But also, as pointed out by the FSNY production truck, Brian Gionta setup Patrik Elias on the doorstep during a power play and Miller made what looked like an unbelievable glove save. But as I watched, I immediately said they should go upstairs and look at it cause it looked dangerously close to the goal line. And anytime you have that situation, you should review it. But instead, the referees dropped the puck right away and the Devils failed to convert that man-advantage. It was a few minutes later where FSNY confirmed our worst fears. That indeed Elias' shot looked to have crossed the line before Miller pulled it back. In an ultracompetitive battle between two solid teams with much at stake, that should never happen. One goal could be the difference. And as we write this, Buffalo still has that one-goal lead headed to the third.
Now to the ticky tac calls we've seen. Oh. It's happened in both games. Marginal hooks or even clean shoulders are now penalties. MSG's Joe Micheletti was irate over a call on Brendan Shanahan basically going on to conclude it wasn't a penalty. Not long after, Matt Cullen was whistled for "interference." That's if you conclude that a shoulder tap is. It was an absolutely atrocious call. Meanwhile in New Jersey, you've seen more battles but also a few penalties. On some of those battles, there could've been legit calls on either side. But that was let go. Meanwhile, tacky hooking calls such as the ones on Maxim Afinogenov and Zach Parise were made. It makes me wonder what game they're watching. You have to let these guys battle. There are instances where penalties should be called.
It would be nice if the officials knew the rulebook. But what the hell is the point? It may as well not even exist thanks to that great commish who celebrated his 15th anniversary running this league into the ground.
I'm ticked!
I have had enough of the ticky tac garbage calls that that freaking nerd's corporate sponsors want in the game. Hockey is not that kind of game. This isn't the NBA where every handcheck or shove is called for the game's stars. Hockey is a game of intense competition. It's skating. It's fastpaced play. It's hitting. It's backchecking. But when you see what's gone on tonight, it's not there.
Before I make a couple of observations from the Rangers-Lightning game which is knotted at two apiece after two thanks to a Michael Nylander power play tally late, I want to point to the Sabres-Devils Eastern battle taking place at The Meadowlands. I've caught most of that as well between breaks and such. In the first, Buffalo again got superior netminding from Ryan Miller (15 saves) and a timely goal from the red hot Chris Drury (30th of season) to go ahead. But also, as pointed out by the FSNY production truck, Brian Gionta setup Patrik Elias on the doorstep during a power play and Miller made what looked like an unbelievable glove save. But as I watched, I immediately said they should go upstairs and look at it cause it looked dangerously close to the goal line. And anytime you have that situation, you should review it. But instead, the referees dropped the puck right away and the Devils failed to convert that man-advantage. It was a few minutes later where FSNY confirmed our worst fears. That indeed Elias' shot looked to have crossed the line before Miller pulled it back. In an ultracompetitive battle between two solid teams with much at stake, that should never happen. One goal could be the difference. And as we write this, Buffalo still has that one-goal lead headed to the third.
Now to the ticky tac calls we've seen. Oh. It's happened in both games. Marginal hooks or even clean shoulders are now penalties. MSG's Joe Micheletti was irate over a call on Brendan Shanahan basically going on to conclude it wasn't a penalty. Not long after, Matt Cullen was whistled for "interference." That's if you conclude that a shoulder tap is. It was an absolutely atrocious call. Meanwhile in New Jersey, you've seen more battles but also a few penalties. On some of those battles, there could've been legit calls on either side. But that was let go. Meanwhile, tacky hooking calls such as the ones on Maxim Afinogenov and Zach Parise were made. It makes me wonder what game they're watching. You have to let these guys battle. There are instances where penalties should be called.
It would be nice if the officials knew the rulebook. But what the hell is the point? It may as well not even exist thanks to that great commish who celebrated his 15th anniversary running this league into the ground.
I'm ticked!
Another big showdown out West
Well, I'm not going to make this long. But out West there also is a huge match-up similar to Sabres-Devils (or Slugs-Satans if you want to go that route). It will be the other slug the Nashville Predators hosting the Anaheim Ducks in a big Western Conference showdown. With the most points in the league, the Central-leading Preds (36-14-3, 75 points) enter three points better than Pacific leader Anaheim (32-12-8, 72 points). They also put the NHL's best home record (18-3-3) on the line against a depleted Ducks team which might still be without Dynamic Blueline Duo Scott Niedermayer and Chris Pronger. It's worth noting that the Red Wings trail the Preds by three points for the division while the Sharks, already 4-2 winners over Chicago have closed to within three of Anaheim. So whoever wins can maintain a nice margin in their division.
Just a couple of notes:
I want to correct something I posted the other day about the Flyers losing 14 straight at home. NHL Siberia hasn't sunk to that Titanic level yet. The 6-5 OT defeat to the Devils was their franchise worst 12th consecutive loss. They still have some work to do or maybe that's not the right description.
I also said during our NY Hockey Report show this past Wednesday that Toronto trailed the Rangers by two points. They were in fact tied and with the win passed them in the standings.
Also want to correct myself as Ron did on that show that last Saturday the Devils were at Florida when they fell 4-2, drawing a miniscule rating of 0.1 as mentioned during our show. They played Tampa the night before with Brodeur posting his league-best ninth shutout and career No.89. It still is alarming that New York's lacrosse team the Titans could outdraw both the Devils and Islanders on a Saturday. And don't forget the Isles had that great third period comeback win over the Sabres. Yikes.
I also noticed that the league set an attendance record for January. Whoopty do. The question is how many were real diehards? The league is pushing towards a different audience. They can slice it anyway they want. But if you really like the direction they're headed, then you must love the fact the NHL was extended through 2011 on a network hardly anyone can find in Versus. I liked them better as Outdoor Life Network. At least it made sense. What else do they show aside from Survivor repeats, Ultimate Barbecue competitions, etc? They do have tennis. But I'm not sure how many events they're covering.
As also pointed out on our show by yours truly, the Australian Open women's final which was a rout by Serena Williams over "It Girl" Maria Sharapova drew a 1.6 rating on ESPN2. It was the highest rated tennis match they had since Serena won the same Grand Slam two years prior over Lindsay Davenport. What do you think the NHL would give for that kind of rating on any given night? Just wondering.
I was on the new yahoo site which I think stinks (not everything new is always better). But I did happen to come across an interesting article. As you might know, the Pens and Habs played the other night in an exciting affair which wound up 5-4 Penguins in the shootout at the outdated Mellon Arena. Apparently, there was a cheapshot from Pens' forward Colby Armstrong which Montreal coach Guy Garbonneau wasn't too pleased with:
Carbonneau Upset
It's interesting to note that in the same game which the Montreal coach was upset with a call that one of his players committed a similar cheapshot which wasn't even penalized:
On the opening face-off, Montreal centre Maxim Lapierre looked to have butt-ended Sidney Crosby in the stomach. Crosby got him back moments' later by tripping Lapierre on a face-off. Neither infraction was called.
Interesting indeed. Even TSN's Pierre McGuire was at a loss. I saw it and according to The Hockey Professor between the glass, the two had a history that dated back a few years to when they competed in juniors. For those wondering, the rematch is set for tomorrow on Super Bowl Sunday when Montreal hosts the Pens in what now amounts to a game which separates the clubs by two points. It should be interesting.
Kudos to Steve for his Sabres-Devils preview. Nice job putting up those links from the clubs' recent victories!
Just a couple of notes:
I want to correct something I posted the other day about the Flyers losing 14 straight at home. NHL Siberia hasn't sunk to that Titanic level yet. The 6-5 OT defeat to the Devils was their franchise worst 12th consecutive loss. They still have some work to do or maybe that's not the right description.
I also said during our NY Hockey Report show this past Wednesday that Toronto trailed the Rangers by two points. They were in fact tied and with the win passed them in the standings.
Also want to correct myself as Ron did on that show that last Saturday the Devils were at Florida when they fell 4-2, drawing a miniscule rating of 0.1 as mentioned during our show. They played Tampa the night before with Brodeur posting his league-best ninth shutout and career No.89. It still is alarming that New York's lacrosse team the Titans could outdraw both the Devils and Islanders on a Saturday. And don't forget the Isles had that great third period comeback win over the Sabres. Yikes.
I also noticed that the league set an attendance record for January. Whoopty do. The question is how many were real diehards? The league is pushing towards a different audience. They can slice it anyway they want. But if you really like the direction they're headed, then you must love the fact the NHL was extended through 2011 on a network hardly anyone can find in Versus. I liked them better as Outdoor Life Network. At least it made sense. What else do they show aside from Survivor repeats, Ultimate Barbecue competitions, etc? They do have tennis. But I'm not sure how many events they're covering.
As also pointed out on our show by yours truly, the Australian Open women's final which was a rout by Serena Williams over "It Girl" Maria Sharapova drew a 1.6 rating on ESPN2. It was the highest rated tennis match they had since Serena won the same Grand Slam two years prior over Lindsay Davenport. What do you think the NHL would give for that kind of rating on any given night? Just wondering.
I was on the new yahoo site which I think stinks (not everything new is always better). But I did happen to come across an interesting article. As you might know, the Pens and Habs played the other night in an exciting affair which wound up 5-4 Penguins in the shootout at the outdated Mellon Arena. Apparently, there was a cheapshot from Pens' forward Colby Armstrong which Montreal coach Guy Garbonneau wasn't too pleased with:
Carbonneau Upset
It's interesting to note that in the same game which the Montreal coach was upset with a call that one of his players committed a similar cheapshot which wasn't even penalized:
On the opening face-off, Montreal centre Maxim Lapierre looked to have butt-ended Sidney Crosby in the stomach. Crosby got him back moments' later by tripping Lapierre on a face-off. Neither infraction was called.
Interesting indeed. Even TSN's Pierre McGuire was at a loss. I saw it and according to The Hockey Professor between the glass, the two had a history that dated back a few years to when they competed in juniors. For those wondering, the rematch is set for tomorrow on Super Bowl Sunday when Montreal hosts the Pens in what now amounts to a game which separates the clubs by two points. It should be interesting.
Kudos to Steve for his Sabres-Devils preview. Nice job putting up those links from the clubs' recent victories!
Saturday Afternoon Games
As I construct this post, the 11th place Islanders (54 points) and 4th place Canadiens (62 points) were tied at two until the rejuvenated Trent Hunter lasered one by a shocked Cristobal Huet to put the Isles up with 8:00 approaching. Hunter has been the best Islander lately and now suddenly has 14 goals including the last two in this crucial Eastern tilt. If the Isles win, they'll be just two out of the last spot depending on tonight's games. It would also be another game they got points in since the All Star Break.
Well, it looks like it will be a huge comeback win for them as Miroslav Satan got his second off another careless Habs' turnover. Kind of similar to Hunter's go-ahead minutes earlier. This is why you can't take the Canadiens seriously as a playoff contender. They are too jittery in their end. This was a game they led 2-1 entering this period and since I flipped it on, it's been all Fishsticks. Btw...for those wondering why the Islanders would be a dangerous first round opponent if they got in, they now have outscored opponents in the third period 61-47. We're just wondering about top defender Radek Martinek, who left this contest on a stretcher. He makes a huge difference. Hopefully, it's not too serious.
And while we're checking matinee scores, the Pens won for the sixth consecutive time, this time shutting out Washington 2-0. That btw is impressive when you consider the firepower of super sophomore Alexander Ovechkin and Alexander Semin. The Penguins made a second period Ronald Petrovicky goal stand up until Calder hopeful Jordan Staal potted the empty net with 38 seconds remaining to ensure Marc-Andre Fleury of the shutout. Fleury btw stopped all 30 shots. And yes, Sidney Crosby didn't record a point. But it didn't matter. So does anyone still think this Pittsburgh team can't make the playoffs and give someone a huge scare? They're coming together at the right time. And with the kind of young crop of talent and gamebreakers they have, that's not a team I'd want any part of.
There are two other afternoon games taking place out West. Colorado leads Edmonton 1-0 and Chicago and San Jose are knotted at one.
As the Isles wrap another impressive road win, there's a big game tonight between conference leader Buffalo and Atlantic Division Groundhogs New Jersey. I figured it would be appropriate and all referring to that damn team as a Groundhog since they always see their shadow and remain atop the division and are a royal pain in the ass. Can you tell I am bitter much? I freaking hate that team. I guess you can't blame me being a Ranger fan and all. It's part of an intense rivalry. The Devils are like the CCCP. They are a cult. And after giving up tons of goals the last three games, you know tonight's contest which separates them by six points with Buffalo is going to be like a game of chess.
So, I figured I'd give a little preview of what's at stake:
The Sabres (35-14-4, 74 pts) have led the East since the beginning of the season when they set a league record for best start. For the past month though, they have been very up and down which is why a once huge double digit lead has dwindled to six making the top seed a race again with about 30 games remaining before the real season begins. Too bad my pathetic team won't be participating.
So what's the key for Buffalo? With back-to-back wins over the hapless Bruins in a rare home and home, they're now 16-1-1 when top defenseman Henrik Tallinder plays. That means that when he hasn't played, they're only six games over .500 (19-13-3) if you go by new NHL rules. The 28 year-old Tallinder is the Sabres' tower of strength on the blueline. Going 6-4, 213 pounds, he is rock solid in front of his own net and keeps pests such as Devils leading goalscorer Brian Gionta (24 goals) honest. If Tallinder is in again, look for that to be a key match-up.
The Devils (31-15-6, 68 pts) take an eight point lead over the red hot Pens into this pivotal home tilt against one of the four teams they actually have lost to at Continental Airlines Arena. As Steve and many of you know, they're one of the best home teams in the league, bringing a 17-4-4 record into tonight's contest with faceoff set for about 7:38 PM. They just concluded a four-game road trip with a wild come from behind 6-5 OT victory over NHL Siberia Philadelphia. Just like a couple of other games played at Wachovia Center, the Devs rallied to tie it late. In two other wins, it was Brad Lukowich shorthanded (remember this name) and the clutch Rochester native Gionta who forced extras before they wound up winning. The other night, this time it was splendid soph Zach Parise notching his 19th with about 41 ticks left before the immortal Lukowich morphed into a superstar and redirected a Brian Rafalski shot in front with about 49 seconds to go giving them another improbable triumph. And you want to know what Coach Claude Julien's reaction was: That the defenseman was out of position for the winner. Hahaha...god. You won! I swear the very quiet coach looks like a librarian.
As stingy a team as they are (125 GA and Martin Brodeur's league best 9 shutouts, 31 wins), the Devils are probably the best comeback team in the league. No lead is safe against Julien's bunch. Probably because of the team chemistry they have with a core mostly intact, it makes it easier for them to get a late goal. That's the baffling aspect of this defensive juggernaut. They certainly possess enough skilled players to open it up and get goals. But that's never the mantra. It's to bore the opposition and fans alike from other teams. Just kidding Steve. Truthfully, they're a very disciplined team who pays attention to every detail. That's what makes them such a tough opponent and is why no matter what any Devil fan will tell you, Brodeur's life is much easier than most other netminders. Because they aren't going to allow many odd-man rushes or clear scoring chances in front. Most are contested. And when they do breakdown, the future Hall of Famer comes up with the big saves which turn Chico Resch into a 7 year-old kid.
If you want to see a contrast in styles, watch this game tonight. I'll probably watch it over Rangers-Lightning since I already know the result. It's a battle between the two best Eastern teams. The Sabres btw are the opposite of the Devils in that they like to open it up and take chances utilizing their supreme team speed and skill. When they breakdown, it's usually All Star goalie Ryan Miller who has to deal with 2-on-1's, 3-on-2's, etc and make the huge stops. The Sabres aren't a lockdown D. Don't believe me? If you missed their 3-2 win in New Jersey back in the second week of December, Miller stoned the Devils several times in the first and was the best player on the ice. The question is will he be back in goal? Reliable backup Martin Biron started the last two and played well. Will Lindy Ruff ride the hot hand? We'll see. But I'm expecting Miller to return to his starting role.
If you like offense, the Sabres already boast five 20+ goal scorers in Chris Drury (29), Thomas Vanek (25), Jason Pominville (23), Maxim Afinogenov (21) and Daniel Briere (21). That kind of talent will be on display. But it is point leader Briere (65 points) and Drury (51 points) who set the tone. The problem for opponents is that Afinogenov plays with one of these pivots. He is probably the most explosive skater on the ice. Last time, it was his gamebreaking speed which killed the Devils. He scored twice.
What makes Buffalo so tough is that underrated performers such as Jochen Hecht, Derek Roy, Ales Kotalik and Paul Gaustad can all contribute. From the backline, All Star Brian Campbell can be lethal jumping in.
So the Devils will have their hands full trying to keep Buffalo at bay. They'll hope that team captain Patrik Elias can make it three games in a row with a goal after a lengthy drought. They'll also look for the North Dakota connection of Parise and promising rookie Travis Zajac (10 goals) to continue their sound play after breaking out of slumps. Ditto linemate Jamie Langenbrunner (17 goals). All Star defenseman Brian Rafalski (19 PP points) is particularly dangerous when he jumps into the play. They'll also need an inspired game from top playmaker Scott Gomez (32 assists). The question is who will Julien match the Pandolfo-Madden-Brylin unit with probably Colin White and Rafalski against? Briere or Drury? That's what makes this such an intriguing match-up.
With it being a potential four-point swing game, look for it to be hotly contested and tight. A Sabre victory gives them some separation. But a Devil win closes the gap to four with two huge games left to take place up in Buffalo at HSBC Arena.
I'm thinking this one is decided by a goal. I'll say the score is 3-2. But I am not picking a winner. It should be a fun game and possible Eastern Conference Final preview.
Well, it looks like it will be a huge comeback win for them as Miroslav Satan got his second off another careless Habs' turnover. Kind of similar to Hunter's go-ahead minutes earlier. This is why you can't take the Canadiens seriously as a playoff contender. They are too jittery in their end. This was a game they led 2-1 entering this period and since I flipped it on, it's been all Fishsticks. Btw...for those wondering why the Islanders would be a dangerous first round opponent if they got in, they now have outscored opponents in the third period 61-47. We're just wondering about top defender Radek Martinek, who left this contest on a stretcher. He makes a huge difference. Hopefully, it's not too serious.
And while we're checking matinee scores, the Pens won for the sixth consecutive time, this time shutting out Washington 2-0. That btw is impressive when you consider the firepower of super sophomore Alexander Ovechkin and Alexander Semin. The Penguins made a second period Ronald Petrovicky goal stand up until Calder hopeful Jordan Staal potted the empty net with 38 seconds remaining to ensure Marc-Andre Fleury of the shutout. Fleury btw stopped all 30 shots. And yes, Sidney Crosby didn't record a point. But it didn't matter. So does anyone still think this Pittsburgh team can't make the playoffs and give someone a huge scare? They're coming together at the right time. And with the kind of young crop of talent and gamebreakers they have, that's not a team I'd want any part of.
There are two other afternoon games taking place out West. Colorado leads Edmonton 1-0 and Chicago and San Jose are knotted at one.
As the Isles wrap another impressive road win, there's a big game tonight between conference leader Buffalo and Atlantic Division Groundhogs New Jersey. I figured it would be appropriate and all referring to that damn team as a Groundhog since they always see their shadow and remain atop the division and are a royal pain in the ass. Can you tell I am bitter much? I freaking hate that team. I guess you can't blame me being a Ranger fan and all. It's part of an intense rivalry. The Devils are like the CCCP. They are a cult. And after giving up tons of goals the last three games, you know tonight's contest which separates them by six points with Buffalo is going to be like a game of chess.
So, I figured I'd give a little preview of what's at stake:
The Sabres (35-14-4, 74 pts) have led the East since the beginning of the season when they set a league record for best start. For the past month though, they have been very up and down which is why a once huge double digit lead has dwindled to six making the top seed a race again with about 30 games remaining before the real season begins. Too bad my pathetic team won't be participating.
So what's the key for Buffalo? With back-to-back wins over the hapless Bruins in a rare home and home, they're now 16-1-1 when top defenseman Henrik Tallinder plays. That means that when he hasn't played, they're only six games over .500 (19-13-3) if you go by new NHL rules. The 28 year-old Tallinder is the Sabres' tower of strength on the blueline. Going 6-4, 213 pounds, he is rock solid in front of his own net and keeps pests such as Devils leading goalscorer Brian Gionta (24 goals) honest. If Tallinder is in again, look for that to be a key match-up.
The Devils (31-15-6, 68 pts) take an eight point lead over the red hot Pens into this pivotal home tilt against one of the four teams they actually have lost to at Continental Airlines Arena. As Steve and many of you know, they're one of the best home teams in the league, bringing a 17-4-4 record into tonight's contest with faceoff set for about 7:38 PM. They just concluded a four-game road trip with a wild come from behind 6-5 OT victory over NHL Siberia Philadelphia. Just like a couple of other games played at Wachovia Center, the Devs rallied to tie it late. In two other wins, it was Brad Lukowich shorthanded (remember this name) and the clutch Rochester native Gionta who forced extras before they wound up winning. The other night, this time it was splendid soph Zach Parise notching his 19th with about 41 ticks left before the immortal Lukowich morphed into a superstar and redirected a Brian Rafalski shot in front with about 49 seconds to go giving them another improbable triumph. And you want to know what Coach Claude Julien's reaction was: That the defenseman was out of position for the winner. Hahaha...god. You won! I swear the very quiet coach looks like a librarian.
As stingy a team as they are (125 GA and Martin Brodeur's league best 9 shutouts, 31 wins), the Devils are probably the best comeback team in the league. No lead is safe against Julien's bunch. Probably because of the team chemistry they have with a core mostly intact, it makes it easier for them to get a late goal. That's the baffling aspect of this defensive juggernaut. They certainly possess enough skilled players to open it up and get goals. But that's never the mantra. It's to bore the opposition and fans alike from other teams. Just kidding Steve. Truthfully, they're a very disciplined team who pays attention to every detail. That's what makes them such a tough opponent and is why no matter what any Devil fan will tell you, Brodeur's life is much easier than most other netminders. Because they aren't going to allow many odd-man rushes or clear scoring chances in front. Most are contested. And when they do breakdown, the future Hall of Famer comes up with the big saves which turn Chico Resch into a 7 year-old kid.
If you want to see a contrast in styles, watch this game tonight. I'll probably watch it over Rangers-Lightning since I already know the result. It's a battle between the two best Eastern teams. The Sabres btw are the opposite of the Devils in that they like to open it up and take chances utilizing their supreme team speed and skill. When they breakdown, it's usually All Star goalie Ryan Miller who has to deal with 2-on-1's, 3-on-2's, etc and make the huge stops. The Sabres aren't a lockdown D. Don't believe me? If you missed their 3-2 win in New Jersey back in the second week of December, Miller stoned the Devils several times in the first and was the best player on the ice. The question is will he be back in goal? Reliable backup Martin Biron started the last two and played well. Will Lindy Ruff ride the hot hand? We'll see. But I'm expecting Miller to return to his starting role.
If you like offense, the Sabres already boast five 20+ goal scorers in Chris Drury (29), Thomas Vanek (25), Jason Pominville (23), Maxim Afinogenov (21) and Daniel Briere (21). That kind of talent will be on display. But it is point leader Briere (65 points) and Drury (51 points) who set the tone. The problem for opponents is that Afinogenov plays with one of these pivots. He is probably the most explosive skater on the ice. Last time, it was his gamebreaking speed which killed the Devils. He scored twice.
What makes Buffalo so tough is that underrated performers such as Jochen Hecht, Derek Roy, Ales Kotalik and Paul Gaustad can all contribute. From the backline, All Star Brian Campbell can be lethal jumping in.
So the Devils will have their hands full trying to keep Buffalo at bay. They'll hope that team captain Patrik Elias can make it three games in a row with a goal after a lengthy drought. They'll also look for the North Dakota connection of Parise and promising rookie Travis Zajac (10 goals) to continue their sound play after breaking out of slumps. Ditto linemate Jamie Langenbrunner (17 goals). All Star defenseman Brian Rafalski (19 PP points) is particularly dangerous when he jumps into the play. They'll also need an inspired game from top playmaker Scott Gomez (32 assists). The question is who will Julien match the Pandolfo-Madden-Brylin unit with probably Colin White and Rafalski against? Briere or Drury? That's what makes this such an intriguing match-up.
With it being a potential four-point swing game, look for it to be hotly contested and tight. A Sabre victory gives them some separation. But a Devil win closes the gap to four with two huge games left to take place up in Buffalo at HSBC Arena.
I'm thinking this one is decided by a goal. I'll say the score is 3-2. But I am not picking a winner. It should be a fun game and possible Eastern Conference Final preview.
GameDay: Devils vs. Slugs, 7:30
New Jersey (31-15-6, 68 PTS, 1st Atlantic, 2nd East) vs. Buffalo (35-14-4, 74 PTS, 1st Northeast, 1st East)
7:30 PM
The Swamp
TV: FSN NY/inHD
Radio: WFAN 660
Last Game
New Jersey: 6-5 OT Win over Philadelphia on Thursday (Watch: http://www.nhl.com/video/app?component=%24GameVideoViewer_0.%24NHLDirectLink_0&page=DailyHighlights&service=direct&sp=S%2F20062007%2F02%2F0772%2FIH_NHL_2006_2007_772_2_700K_continuous.wmv&sp=20062007&sp=772&sp=2)
Buffalo: 3-1 Win over Boston on Thursday (Watch: http://www.nhl.com/video/app?component=%24GameVideoViewer.%24NHLDirectLink_0&page=DailyHighlights&service=direct&sp=S%2F20062007%2F02%2F0771%2FIH_NHL_2006_2007_771_2_700K_continuous.wmv&sp=20062007&sp=771&sp=2)
Last Meeting
Dec. 12th, on national TV at The Swamp, Buffalo gets 3 unanswered after a scoreless 32:05 to start the game. Devils answer with 2 in the final 40 seconds, but it's not enough as Buffalo wins it 3-2 (Watch: http://www.nhl.com/video/app?component=%24GameVideoViewer.%24NHLDirectLink_0&page=DailyHighlights&service=direct&sp=S%2F20062007%2F02%2F0444%2FIH_NHL_2006_2007_444_2_700K_continuous.wmv&sp=20062007&sp=444&sp=2)
Leading Scorers
New Jersey
#26 Patrik Elias 18-31-49
#14 Brian Gionta 24-18-42
#23 Scott Gomez 9-32-41
*9 Zach Parise 19-20-39
#15 Jamie Langenbrunner 17-20-37
Buffalo
#48 Daniel Briere 21-44-65
#61 Maxim Afinogenov 21-34-55
#23 Chris Drury 29-22-51
#26 Thomas Vanek 25-26-51
#29 Jason Pominville 23-19-42
Goaltenders
New Jersey
#30 Martin Brodeur 31-14-5, 2.08, .926%
#40 Scott Clemmensen 0-1-1, 3.60, .878%
Buffalo
#30 Ryan Miller 24-10-3, 2.70, .912%
#43 Martin Biron 11-4-1, 2.90, .902%
Tonight:
Shoutout to friend of the blog and NJDevs poster LOTCB ( Legend of the Clown Banner for the unenlightened) but a warning that his Sabres will go down tonight. Expect Marty to bring the A-game after giving up 4 to Blueland and 5 to Siberia. Expect the Devils to be ready to go and win it 2-1.
7:30 PM
The Swamp
TV: FSN NY/inHD
Radio: WFAN 660
Last Game
New Jersey: 6-5 OT Win over Philadelphia on Thursday (Watch: http://www.nhl.com/video/app?component=%24GameVideoViewer_0.%24NHLDirectLink_0&page=DailyHighlights&service=direct&sp=S%2F20062007%2F02%2F0772%2FIH_NHL_2006_2007_772_2_700K_continuous.wmv&sp=20062007&sp=772&sp=2)
Buffalo: 3-1 Win over Boston on Thursday (Watch: http://www.nhl.com/video/app?component=%24GameVideoViewer.%24NHLDirectLink_0&page=DailyHighlights&service=direct&sp=S%2F20062007%2F02%2F0771%2FIH_NHL_2006_2007_771_2_700K_continuous.wmv&sp=20062007&sp=771&sp=2)
Last Meeting
Dec. 12th, on national TV at The Swamp, Buffalo gets 3 unanswered after a scoreless 32:05 to start the game. Devils answer with 2 in the final 40 seconds, but it's not enough as Buffalo wins it 3-2 (Watch: http://www.nhl.com/video/app?component=%24GameVideoViewer.%24NHLDirectLink_0&page=DailyHighlights&service=direct&sp=S%2F20062007%2F02%2F0444%2FIH_NHL_2006_2007_444_2_700K_continuous.wmv&sp=20062007&sp=444&sp=2)
Leading Scorers
New Jersey
#26 Patrik Elias 18-31-49
#14 Brian Gionta 24-18-42
#23 Scott Gomez 9-32-41
*9 Zach Parise 19-20-39
#15 Jamie Langenbrunner 17-20-37
Buffalo
#48 Daniel Briere 21-44-65
#61 Maxim Afinogenov 21-34-55
#23 Chris Drury 29-22-51
#26 Thomas Vanek 25-26-51
#29 Jason Pominville 23-19-42
Goaltenders
New Jersey
#30 Martin Brodeur 31-14-5, 2.08, .926%
#40 Scott Clemmensen 0-1-1, 3.60, .878%
Buffalo
#30 Ryan Miller 24-10-3, 2.70, .912%
#43 Martin Biron 11-4-1, 2.90, .902%
Tonight:
Shoutout to friend of the blog and NJDevs poster LOTCB ( Legend of the Clown Banner for the unenlightened) but a warning that his Sabres will go down tonight. Expect Marty to bring the A-game after giving up 4 to Blueland and 5 to Siberia. Expect the Devils to be ready to go and win it 2-1.
Friday, February 2, 2007
Nice
I know the deal with Chico Steve. As a former production assistant, he is a good guy. Even mentioned my name once on air giving me proper credit for a hat trick stat I discovered when the Devils hosted the Thrashers back in 2000-01.
It's just hilarious listening to the former three-time Vezina runner-up on the 70's Isles go ga ga whenever a goalie makes a decent stop. I don't remember it being as nuts back then when I worked for FSNY.
So, I see the Ranger season officially ended today as they placed MSG whipping boy Marek Malik on IR with a bum shoulder and recalled Bryce Lampman from Hartford. Last year it was Tom Poti. As it turned out, Poti was better than any Ranger supporter would want to admit. He now has become a vital part of the Islanders D and logs 25-26 minutes a night. Malik catches flak because he's not physical for his size. But truth be told, he's one of the team's most reliable defenders and can log a ton of minutes along with Michal Rozsival, who btw is still a question mark for tomorrow night at Tampa Bay.
When you see that Karel Rachunek is still logging major minutes along with Thomas Pock, you know there's problems. Now Lampman will be part of it. Honestly, if Malik and Rozy are no go, the best D on the team becomes Daniel Girardi. Yes, he's shown more in three games than sophomore disappointment Fedor Tyutin and vet Aaron Ward. Yet the clueless coach was afraid to use Girardi in the third the other night summing up things well. No guts.
Now the fans who think Malik is so brutal are going to have to watch as the Lightning skate circles around these guys. How many points will Martin St. Louis and Vincent Lecavalier combine for? The over/under is at six.
I'm going to make one thing clear regarding Brendan Shanahan and the league backing off fining him. I don't care if he was an integral part of the rule changes. If he speaks out against the officiating the way he did the other night even if he has a good point, he has to get some kind of fine. I admire how Shanny has carried himself this season as a Ranger. He's been a model citizen and a leader on and off the ice. Ask fans who the real captain of the team is and they'll tell you. It's easy to respect how he goes about things. I understand going to bat for Jaromir Jagr. But again, I will reiterate that it wasn't why they fell short. There was still an opportunity to win. The bottom line is they didn't get it done even if the officials didn't call a great game. Sometimes, you have to dig deeper and overcome that stuff.
Honestly, this Ranger team just doesn't win me over like last year's. They aren't consistent and can't win on home ice. You can't do that and you may as well pack your golf clubs this Spring cause that's where it's headed. They can say whatever they want. But anyone can see the writing on the wall. They're not good enough this time. It's going to be a huge step back. Who is going to blow it if not them? Montreal? Tampa? Pittsburgh? Carolina? Toronto? Those teams show me more.
A couple of days ago, I tried posting a link to the last NY Hockey Report, only it didn't work. This link should take you to this past Wednesday's edition in which among other things, the Islanders loss to Detroit, Martin Brodeur's shutout chase, the Rangers' issues and why the NHL gaffed by scheduling the All Star Game in primetime last week were covered by Gary, myself, Patrick, special guest Ron and Joe:
NY Hockey Report 1-31-07
Hope ya'll check it out.
It's just hilarious listening to the former three-time Vezina runner-up on the 70's Isles go ga ga whenever a goalie makes a decent stop. I don't remember it being as nuts back then when I worked for FSNY.
So, I see the Ranger season officially ended today as they placed MSG whipping boy Marek Malik on IR with a bum shoulder and recalled Bryce Lampman from Hartford. Last year it was Tom Poti. As it turned out, Poti was better than any Ranger supporter would want to admit. He now has become a vital part of the Islanders D and logs 25-26 minutes a night. Malik catches flak because he's not physical for his size. But truth be told, he's one of the team's most reliable defenders and can log a ton of minutes along with Michal Rozsival, who btw is still a question mark for tomorrow night at Tampa Bay.
When you see that Karel Rachunek is still logging major minutes along with Thomas Pock, you know there's problems. Now Lampman will be part of it. Honestly, if Malik and Rozy are no go, the best D on the team becomes Daniel Girardi. Yes, he's shown more in three games than sophomore disappointment Fedor Tyutin and vet Aaron Ward. Yet the clueless coach was afraid to use Girardi in the third the other night summing up things well. No guts.
Now the fans who think Malik is so brutal are going to have to watch as the Lightning skate circles around these guys. How many points will Martin St. Louis and Vincent Lecavalier combine for? The over/under is at six.
I'm going to make one thing clear regarding Brendan Shanahan and the league backing off fining him. I don't care if he was an integral part of the rule changes. If he speaks out against the officiating the way he did the other night even if he has a good point, he has to get some kind of fine. I admire how Shanny has carried himself this season as a Ranger. He's been a model citizen and a leader on and off the ice. Ask fans who the real captain of the team is and they'll tell you. It's easy to respect how he goes about things. I understand going to bat for Jaromir Jagr. But again, I will reiterate that it wasn't why they fell short. There was still an opportunity to win. The bottom line is they didn't get it done even if the officials didn't call a great game. Sometimes, you have to dig deeper and overcome that stuff.
Honestly, this Ranger team just doesn't win me over like last year's. They aren't consistent and can't win on home ice. You can't do that and you may as well pack your golf clubs this Spring cause that's where it's headed. They can say whatever they want. But anyone can see the writing on the wall. They're not good enough this time. It's going to be a huge step back. Who is going to blow it if not them? Montreal? Tampa? Pittsburgh? Carolina? Toronto? Those teams show me more.
A couple of days ago, I tried posting a link to the last NY Hockey Report, only it didn't work. This link should take you to this past Wednesday's edition in which among other things, the Islanders loss to Detroit, Martin Brodeur's shutout chase, the Rangers' issues and why the NHL gaffed by scheduling the All Star Game in primetime last week were covered by Gary, myself, Patrick, special guest Ron and Joe:
NY Hockey Report 1-31-07
Hope ya'll check it out.
More Random of Thoughts
I only saw the last few minutes of thursday's game, but cmon Derek, everyone knows you have to take whatever Chico says with a grain of salt. The guys loves Brodeur and DiPietro for that matter. He loves all goalies, except maybe Lundy bridges.
-NBC can't give a clear answer. On NBCSports.com it says they will air both the February 11 Blue Jackets-Blackhawks and March 25 Blues-Blue Jackets game. NHL.com says they've dropped the latter. NBC's Universal Media Village says they aren't airing either.
Neither affects our area, as the Devils host the Lightning on 2/11 and Rags-Isles showdown 3/25, but the NHL should give a clear, concise press release if they're doing something like this.
Signed,
Steve (Official Member of the 736 Club)
-NBC can't give a clear answer. On NBCSports.com it says they will air both the February 11 Blue Jackets-Blackhawks and March 25 Blues-Blue Jackets game. NHL.com says they've dropped the latter. NBC's Universal Media Village says they aren't airing either.
Neither affects our area, as the Devils host the Lightning on 2/11 and Rags-Isles showdown 3/25, but the NHL should give a clear, concise press release if they're doing something like this.
Signed,
Steve (Official Member of the 736 Club)
Thursday, February 1, 2007
Flyers Choke One Away Signaling Difference Between Two Franchises
There's no other way to say it. For as much as you can say that the Devils showed their usual resiliency, it was the NHL Siberia Flyers inventing a new way to blow a game in their own building and lose. For those keeping score, it's been over two months since the Cheesesteaks won a home game, last doing so last November 24.
If you saw this wild 11-goal affair between the two former Turnpike rivals, then you know this was the night the losing streak which I believe is now 14 should've ended. Back and forth the clubs went trading goals. And when it was 4-3 Devils, you figured it was over. Except the Flyers not only got the tying goal but went ahead.
The time ticked down. 2:00...1:30...1:00 as Devil alarms sounded off as to which player would tie it and turn the Flyers into a more fragile opponent than Glass Joe in Tyson's Punchout. The drama was building. 45 seconds to go until NHL Siberia ended their losing streak. As the clock hit 40, that's when I knew the game would be tied. With all sorts of time behind the net, loser defenseman Denis Gauthier had his head down and apparently didn't watch HNIC Coach's Corner around the holidays. And here's basically what Don Cherry said:
"If you can lift the puck out, you've done something really good."
So many NHLers don't do it though. Especially when protecting leads. You lift it out and an attacking opponent has no chance of stealing it and tying the game. Gauthier didn't listen and panicked as the Flyers usually do. Ironically, a couple of weeks ago they were 21 ticks away against the same team until Brian Gionta pulled his last minute magic to tie it and then Chico Resch probably orgasmed about the heart of THESE DEVILS in that voice. Oh. You know it. It's the same one he always uses to describe any Martin Brodeur save even if it's routine. Who could forget that priceless, "Nobody does that better rant" on a routine block before the Islanders tied it with 0.8 left. Maybe Chico should've given it rest for once.
So there was Gauthier with head down behind the net and not one Devil anywhere near him. All he had to was look up and lift the puck out. But no. Instead, he waited until he saw Patrik Elias coming and tried for the boards. Not surprisingly, Elias' stick knocked it down and then came the usual Flyer fold job. As Jamie Langenbrunner recovered the puck, he saw what everyone else did except the Flyers out there. Not one bothered to take Zach Parise for what essentially was a gimme. Before Antero Niittymaki could flinch, the puck was in and he shook his head in disgust. He knew. That was it. Game. Set. Match. No reason to play OT. Little Zach got a goal so easy, almost any pee wee hockey player could've scored it.
Like taking candy from a baby. That btw describes the Flyers to a tee. How can a team that made the playoffs so many years in a row be so dreadful? They are stuck on 30 points which of course ranks last, way behind the Kings. I think it's 13 but you and I both know they're not going to catch them. After out of all people Brad freaking Lukowich tipped home the winner with maybe 40 seconds left, the Flyers still were stuck on three home wins. How pathetic is that? Oh. Well, they still got at least another 15 or 16. So, there's still time to pickup much anticipated Win No.4. I bet every Flyer fan if they haven't committed suicide or jumped can hardly wait!
Now let's give the Devils full marks for never quiting. If there was 0.8 tenths of a second left with a faceoff at center ice, they still might believe they could tie it. That's the power of this team. They're like a cult. A machine. You can't really describe it unless you loathe them. Despite that, it's easy to respect what they've accomplished. Few draft and develop players better and integrate them into the protypical Devil. What does that consist of? Probably some of Satan's blood.
I want to go back to something Resch concluded with about a minute left in OT. No, not the ridiculous homerism exhibited by him when Brodeur didn't have complete control of a rebound where Jeff Carter tried for it. And no. Definitely not Resch's praise that the saves the Hart hopeful made in OT might make him the game's first star. Come on Chico. Yes, he made some good saves with his best coming on Mike Knuble with no room in front. In a game where that many goals are scored, it's a good bet neither netminder is getting tabbed a star. And oh btw...after The Franchise made his 22nd straight start (you'd think he might have Julien axed if he dare misses one), that's nine goals allowed in the last two games. Is he getting tired? Would it be wise for him to actually let his coach sit him out the next one? I bet Scott Clemmensen is praying for that chance. Who are we kidding though? He's got the luckiest job and it pays pretty good. So I doubt the former BC standout is too upset. It's like stealing money.
Getting back to what Resch concluded and this is what I actually said at the same time:
Basically stole my thought through the set. Is that even possible? That btw is how dominant the much discussed Forsberg was. It didn't look like that foot was bothering him at all. Unbelievable would be one word to describe the Swedish playmaker's play on his shifts in OT. The Devils who are so good defensively had no answer. Zero. They couldn't stop him. NHL trade deadline teams, take note. The price just went up.
So the rookie NHL coach screwed up by not using that timeout. Instead, he sent the Kyle Calder unit out. Not long after, the Devils did what they had to do and got their first sustained attack. And when Elias setup Brian Rafalski, you figured like myself that it was Gionta in front for the winning tip-in. Wrong! It was Lukowich. A freaking defensive defenseman. This same two-time Cup winner also scored a tying shorthanded goal against the Flyers earlier this season in the same building with about 2:00 left before the Swamp Rats predictably won. And that tells you all you need to know about these two franchises. One never seems to lose momentum and is a pain in the ass to play. The other went from being a classic Cup tease to being the worst freaking team in the league. A flat out disgrace to the Flyer jersey. Almost 40 years later to when they debuted, this franchise is lost.
At least they still got Rocky.
Just a note for anyone who missed it, the Pens won their fifth straight by outshooting the Habs 5-4. Evgeni Malkin won it. I believe Sidney Crosby had three more points increasing his league-leading total to 82. That's 13 better than second place. Can you say the Super Soph is raising his Hart stock. If the Pens continue to win it's a two-horse race between the best forward and the best goalie. Fasten your seatbelts. It should be an exciting final couple of months.
If you saw this wild 11-goal affair between the two former Turnpike rivals, then you know this was the night the losing streak which I believe is now 14 should've ended. Back and forth the clubs went trading goals. And when it was 4-3 Devils, you figured it was over. Except the Flyers not only got the tying goal but went ahead.
The time ticked down. 2:00...1:30...1:00 as Devil alarms sounded off as to which player would tie it and turn the Flyers into a more fragile opponent than Glass Joe in Tyson's Punchout. The drama was building. 45 seconds to go until NHL Siberia ended their losing streak. As the clock hit 40, that's when I knew the game would be tied. With all sorts of time behind the net, loser defenseman Denis Gauthier had his head down and apparently didn't watch HNIC Coach's Corner around the holidays. And here's basically what Don Cherry said:
"If you can lift the puck out, you've done something really good."
So many NHLers don't do it though. Especially when protecting leads. You lift it out and an attacking opponent has no chance of stealing it and tying the game. Gauthier didn't listen and panicked as the Flyers usually do. Ironically, a couple of weeks ago they were 21 ticks away against the same team until Brian Gionta pulled his last minute magic to tie it and then Chico Resch probably orgasmed about the heart of THESE DEVILS in that voice. Oh. You know it. It's the same one he always uses to describe any Martin Brodeur save even if it's routine. Who could forget that priceless, "Nobody does that better rant" on a routine block before the Islanders tied it with 0.8 left. Maybe Chico should've given it rest for once.
So there was Gauthier with head down behind the net and not one Devil anywhere near him. All he had to was look up and lift the puck out. But no. Instead, he waited until he saw Patrik Elias coming and tried for the boards. Not surprisingly, Elias' stick knocked it down and then came the usual Flyer fold job. As Jamie Langenbrunner recovered the puck, he saw what everyone else did except the Flyers out there. Not one bothered to take Zach Parise for what essentially was a gimme. Before Antero Niittymaki could flinch, the puck was in and he shook his head in disgust. He knew. That was it. Game. Set. Match. No reason to play OT. Little Zach got a goal so easy, almost any pee wee hockey player could've scored it.
Like taking candy from a baby. That btw describes the Flyers to a tee. How can a team that made the playoffs so many years in a row be so dreadful? They are stuck on 30 points which of course ranks last, way behind the Kings. I think it's 13 but you and I both know they're not going to catch them. After out of all people Brad freaking Lukowich tipped home the winner with maybe 40 seconds left, the Flyers still were stuck on three home wins. How pathetic is that? Oh. Well, they still got at least another 15 or 16. So, there's still time to pickup much anticipated Win No.4. I bet every Flyer fan if they haven't committed suicide or jumped can hardly wait!
Now let's give the Devils full marks for never quiting. If there was 0.8 tenths of a second left with a faceoff at center ice, they still might believe they could tie it. That's the power of this team. They're like a cult. A machine. You can't really describe it unless you loathe them. Despite that, it's easy to respect what they've accomplished. Few draft and develop players better and integrate them into the protypical Devil. What does that consist of? Probably some of Satan's blood.
I want to go back to something Resch concluded with about a minute left in OT. No, not the ridiculous homerism exhibited by him when Brodeur didn't have complete control of a rebound where Jeff Carter tried for it. And no. Definitely not Resch's praise that the saves the Hart hopeful made in OT might make him the game's first star. Come on Chico. Yes, he made some good saves with his best coming on Mike Knuble with no room in front. In a game where that many goals are scored, it's a good bet neither netminder is getting tabbed a star. And oh btw...after The Franchise made his 22nd straight start (you'd think he might have Julien axed if he dare misses one), that's nine goals allowed in the last two games. Is he getting tired? Would it be wise for him to actually let his coach sit him out the next one? I bet Scott Clemmensen is praying for that chance. Who are we kidding though? He's got the luckiest job and it pays pretty good. So I doubt the former BC standout is too upset. It's like stealing money.
Getting back to what Resch concluded and this is what I actually said at the same time:
"I don't know Doc but if I'm John Stevens, I take my timeout and let Forsberg go back out there for this shift. He was just dominating."
Basically stole my thought through the set. Is that even possible? That btw is how dominant the much discussed Forsberg was. It didn't look like that foot was bothering him at all. Unbelievable would be one word to describe the Swedish playmaker's play on his shifts in OT. The Devils who are so good defensively had no answer. Zero. They couldn't stop him. NHL trade deadline teams, take note. The price just went up.
So the rookie NHL coach screwed up by not using that timeout. Instead, he sent the Kyle Calder unit out. Not long after, the Devils did what they had to do and got their first sustained attack. And when Elias setup Brian Rafalski, you figured like myself that it was Gionta in front for the winning tip-in. Wrong! It was Lukowich. A freaking defensive defenseman. This same two-time Cup winner also scored a tying shorthanded goal against the Flyers earlier this season in the same building with about 2:00 left before the Swamp Rats predictably won. And that tells you all you need to know about these two franchises. One never seems to lose momentum and is a pain in the ass to play. The other went from being a classic Cup tease to being the worst freaking team in the league. A flat out disgrace to the Flyer jersey. Almost 40 years later to when they debuted, this franchise is lost.
At least they still got Rocky.
Just a note for anyone who missed it, the Pens won their fifth straight by outshooting the Habs 5-4. Evgeni Malkin won it. I believe Sidney Crosby had three more points increasing his league-leading total to 82. That's 13 better than second place. Can you say the Super Soph is raising his Hart stock. If the Pens continue to win it's a two-horse race between the best forward and the best goalie. Fasten your seatbelts. It should be an exciting final couple of months.
Random Thoughts
We're going to cover a few topics. The first is a follow-up to frustrated leading finisher Brendan Shanahan, who voiced his displeasure over the lack of respect team captain Jaromir Jagr gets. Here is what the 38 year-old future Hall of Famer who was an integral part of the game's restructure emphasizing obstruction/interference and hooking had to say courtesy of the Post's Larry Brooks' recap appropriately entitled Shanahan Snaps:
"I don't know what it is, if there's some sort of prejudice or what the deal is. I've never seen a superstar player treated with so much disrespect in this league as Jaromir Jagr. He gets mauled every game. Mats Sundin goes down in the first period and gets a penalty call. Jaromir Jagr carries players on his back all season long and doesn't get calls."
"He gets hit late, gets hit high, gets hooked on the hands. He doesn't complain. He just plays and plays and plays. The referees seem to have a different set of rules for him, not just tonight's (Dan Marouelli and Wes McCauley), but all season long. The NBA doesn't let Michael Jordan get grabbed around the waist when he goes up for a jump shot. I've been around a long time, I've played with a lot of superstars, and I've never seen anyone get treated with less respect than Jaromir."
"Not since [Slava] Fetisov came over from Russia have I seen a star player ignored like that, and I know why they were ignoring him. I don't know if it's because Jaromir has the puck all night and if they were to make the calls, they'd have to call five or six penalties a game that he draws."
"All I know is that there's a different set of rules when it comes to him."
What Shanahan is asserting is that there is a bias against No.68. Is there? Hard to say. Does he get hacked at times and slowed down by opposing players illegally? I'd tend to say yes. And it's because Jagr is so tough to defend in the corners. Unless he's being double or triple teamed the way the Devils execute it, there's no way he can be covered one-on-one.
I just don't like the fact that Shanny used this forum to complain after a tough game which the Rangers still should've won. How will this strong commentary affect future Ranger games which are officiated in a tight playoff race?
Is it really smart to take this tact? Obviously, Shanahan will receive a hefty fine for his choice words. I am just not sure whether it will benefit his club the remainder of the way as they attempt to qualify for a second consecutive postseason. We'll know soon enough.
Another hot topic was the interesting SI writer E.M. Swift's Top 10 All-Time Goalies. Here is how he ranked them:
10.Turk Broda-5 Cups, 2 Vezinas and a 1.98 GAA in the postseason
*9.Dominik Hasek- 1 Cup, 2 Harts, 6 Vezinas, Olympic Gold
8.George Hainsworth- 2 Cups, 1.91 career GAA, 94 shutouts, won first 3 Vezinas
7.Glenn Hall- 1 Cup, 7-time 1st Team All-Star, NHL record 502 straight games
*6.Martin Brodeur- 3 Cups, 2 Vezinas, Olympic Gold, 89 shutouts, 1.89 playoff GAA
5.Terry Sawchuk- 3 Cups, NHL record 104 shutouts, 447 career wins, 4 Vezinas
4.Patrick Roy- 4 Cups in 3 decades, 3 Vezinas, all-time in reg. wins (551), postseason wins (151) & postseason shutouts (23)
3.Jacques Plante- 6 Cups and 7 Vezinas, 1st ever goalie to wear facemask
2.Vladislav Tretiak- 3 Gold medals, 10 world championships, 1.78 GAA in 98 international games
1.Ken Dryden- 6 Cups, 5 Vezinas, Calder, 46 shutouts in just a 7+ year career
So what do we think? It's not a bad list. But you have to question whether some other great netminders could've made the cut. Tony Esposito, Bill Durnan, Clint Benedict, Johnny Bower, Bernie Parent and even Grant Fuhr come to mind.
Whenever putting together such an exclusive list, it's always subject to debate. Should Dryden be ranked No.1 even though he had such a short career? Would Hasek rank higher if he hadn't began his NHL career until the age of 25? And don't forget The Dominator was buried behind Ed Belfour in Chicago and didn't become a full-time starter until he was 28 after a trade with Buffalo, winning his first Vezina in 1993-94. It's amazing that the soon to be 43 year-old continues to be one of the NHL's best netminders backstopping the Red Wings near the top of the Western Conference. Here are Dom's career stats:
The Dominator
We'll never know how many more wins and shutouts he could've had.
As Devil great Martin Brodeur chases down Sawchuck and Roy into the record books, one has to wonder if he would've had company. Here are Brodeur's career numbers:
Martin Brodeur
There could be some potential exciting news for Penguin fans as they're said to be extremely close to completing a new arena deal for the franchise to stay in Pittsburgh. It could be announced very soon. Stay tuned!
NY Hockey Report Archive
Last nite's show featured five of us by the end as Gary, Patrick, special guest Ron, Joe and myself all were on discussing Martin Brodeur's shutouts and why it's virtually impossible to compare how many he'll get to break Sawchuk's record due to Ron's logical reasons.
Anyway, here's an archive:
NY Hockey Report
One thought regarding the Rangers' Tom Renney and Brendan Shanahan complaining over the lack of calls on the Leafs as they seemed to indicate that Jaromir Jagr was fouled repeatedly in a game the team wound up with only two power plays while the Leafs got six:
Maybe they did get away with some stuff against No.68. But hey. The bottom line is they came up short in a winnable contest against a team that played the night before in Carolina and dished out 51 hits. There are zero excuses! They certainly had their chances. Bottom line: Renney's club blew it!
Anyway, here's an archive:
NY Hockey Report
One thought regarding the Rangers' Tom Renney and Brendan Shanahan complaining over the lack of calls on the Leafs as they seemed to indicate that Jaromir Jagr was fouled repeatedly in a game the team wound up with only two power plays while the Leafs got six:
Maybe they did get away with some stuff against No.68. But hey. The bottom line is they came up short in a winnable contest against a team that played the night before in Carolina and dished out 51 hits. There are zero excuses! They certainly had their chances. Bottom line: Renney's club blew it!
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