Again, my apologies for a lack of updates; this is kind of a fucked up deal for me because I find out that people actually read this thing, and I am busy with other things, so I feel like a dead beat dad.
-I listened to a couple twins games this weekend on XM radio, and the broadcast was of the Detroit Tigers radio, and they couldn't sing enough praise for Torii Hunter, to his credit, is playing very, very well right now. It is refreshing to hear others outside of the fandom circle give propers where propers are due to a player on your favorite team, no matter the sport. It is easy for us homers to put these players under the microscope and see just the negatives; 12 million is too much, he's a streaky hitter, etc. But he is a leader, he loves it here, he is a perennial Gold Glove Outfielder (which is the cornerstone of the defense-first mantra of the Twins), he is playing the best baseball he's ever played (in a contract year, which alone makes someone hold their breath), and he wants to stay; he's even come out and said so.
So what do we do?
Monday, April 30, 2007
Wednesday, April 25, 2007
I got a story to tell
Last night I went out to grab a bite to eat with my dad; nothing worth mentioning, but we retired to my place so he could have a whiskey, I cracked open a Hamm's, and we tuned into Deadliest Catch and the Twins.
My doorbell rang, and I opened the door to a busty woman, spewing nonsensical syllables at break neck speed; remind you I may have consumed a few beers, so all I heard was "clean something." Sure, I said, as I pointed out a mystery stain on my carpet.
"Let me go get Bobby" she said, as she bounded back down the steps.
And it was kind of like the Alamo was being taken by Santa Anna's army, as two rather sharply dressed man came roaring up my steps, arms full of various wares, and I saw the writing on the box: KIRBY. I had just gotten myself into a fucking vacuum demo.
Let the sale begin, as both guys began to praise the almighty vacuum and its benefits; I didn't care, there were men risking their lives on crab boats on the television. I relayed the story about how a certain person I may know was a Kirby salesman, and how his demo went very very wrong.
"You know, a Kirby will cost cheaper than blah blah blah clean carpet blah blah...."
I simply changed the channel over to the Twins game.
"...and it will do this and that blah blah blah..."
I turned it back over to Deadliest Catch, noticing that the busty temptress had left; now it was two guys talking at me, one more or less coaching the other as far as the pitch went on.
My beer was empty, and I was growing tired of their crap. So I got up, and loudly announced:
"Gentlemen, I appreciate the offer, I'm not gonna buy the vacuum, but if you guys want a beer and want to not try and sell me stuff, then by all means..."
My Dad simply laughed.
The younger guy, the kirby-selling novice, snapped at the chance.
"Hell yes!"
The other clown, said sure, but then went outside to take a call, only to return, announce his departure, and left. My dad finished his (and also my) whiskey, and departed...
...yet the salesman tried to get me to buy the damn vaccum.
Over the course of the next 45 minutes he did his best to find an in with me; the twins were on, so he mentioned he played baseball; he saw my turntables (which I never learned how to use, and essentially function as a shelf), and mentioned he was a dj when he was younger; he saw my bulldog, and mentioned he had a boxer.
Now fueled by Hamm's, I was determined to shut him down. I changed the subject, I controlled the conversation, and I made him talk about everything but Kirby Vacuums and their wonderful uses.
He told me about his white trash cracker ass upbringing, how he and his band of vacuum wielding hooligans are based in Des Moines, where they try to and go to sell, how he has a GED after dropping out at 16, various anecdotes from his Green Acres like upbringing, the whole Kirby scheme, etc.
After a while I realized that, this dude could use another beer. (The entire time he was doing his best to get this mystery stain out) Now I've never sold vacuums door to door, but I know a few who have; and if they tell me it sucks, then I really don't have a choice but to believe them. Now if I had a shitty job like that (which is shittier than mine, because wheelbarrowing mulch all day around giant fucking mansions suddenly didn't seem so bad), I'd gladly drop the bullshit and accept that beer(s), because more than likely that is the most feedback they've gotten all day. Let's just say if you are trying to sell Kirby Vacuums to octogenarians and Arabians (who you can't understand a word they say), chances are you are gonna wanna try and drink that shit off of your mind.
Get this, Cletus (I mentioned earlier I didn't get his name, so I randomly picked a name) told me that these machines have lifetime warranties; yes, that means when Grandma Ethyl dies at age 90, some lucky offspring will get the kirby and its warranty. Man, a vacuum that won't die- that's almost as good as getting an assload of money, jewels, land, or some other shit of value. I know I'd be happy as shit if my brother and sister got a nice chunk of change, and I got the Vacuum. Thanks Grandma!
These Vacuums are essentially the gift that keeps on giving.
Anyways, Cletus power chugged his second Hamm's, cleaned up, thanked me for the beer, picked up his shit, and was gone. Funny enough, so was the mystery stain.
In retrospect, I guess the moral of the story is that if you ever meet a poorly educated kid from a shithole section of Iowa (which is pretty common) who is trying to sell vacuums to people who don't really need it just to get by, give him a beer. It makes you a humanitarian.
My doorbell rang, and I opened the door to a busty woman, spewing nonsensical syllables at break neck speed; remind you I may have consumed a few beers, so all I heard was "clean something." Sure, I said, as I pointed out a mystery stain on my carpet.
"Let me go get Bobby" she said, as she bounded back down the steps.
And it was kind of like the Alamo was being taken by Santa Anna's army, as two rather sharply dressed man came roaring up my steps, arms full of various wares, and I saw the writing on the box: KIRBY. I had just gotten myself into a fucking vacuum demo.
Let the sale begin, as both guys began to praise the almighty vacuum and its benefits; I didn't care, there were men risking their lives on crab boats on the television. I relayed the story about how a certain person I may know was a Kirby salesman, and how his demo went very very wrong.
"You know, a Kirby will cost cheaper than blah blah blah clean carpet blah blah...."
I simply changed the channel over to the Twins game.
"...and it will do this and that blah blah blah..."
I turned it back over to Deadliest Catch, noticing that the busty temptress had left; now it was two guys talking at me, one more or less coaching the other as far as the pitch went on.
My beer was empty, and I was growing tired of their crap. So I got up, and loudly announced:
"Gentlemen, I appreciate the offer, I'm not gonna buy the vacuum, but if you guys want a beer and want to not try and sell me stuff, then by all means..."
My Dad simply laughed.
The younger guy, the kirby-selling novice, snapped at the chance.
"Hell yes!"
The other clown, said sure, but then went outside to take a call, only to return, announce his departure, and left. My dad finished his (and also my) whiskey, and departed...
...yet the salesman tried to get me to buy the damn vaccum.
Over the course of the next 45 minutes he did his best to find an in with me; the twins were on, so he mentioned he played baseball; he saw my turntables (which I never learned how to use, and essentially function as a shelf), and mentioned he was a dj when he was younger; he saw my bulldog, and mentioned he had a boxer.
Now fueled by Hamm's, I was determined to shut him down. I changed the subject, I controlled the conversation, and I made him talk about everything but Kirby Vacuums and their wonderful uses.
He told me about his white trash cracker ass upbringing, how he and his band of vacuum wielding hooligans are based in Des Moines, where they try to and go to sell, how he has a GED after dropping out at 16, various anecdotes from his Green Acres like upbringing, the whole Kirby scheme, etc.
After a while I realized that, this dude could use another beer. (The entire time he was doing his best to get this mystery stain out) Now I've never sold vacuums door to door, but I know a few who have; and if they tell me it sucks, then I really don't have a choice but to believe them. Now if I had a shitty job like that (which is shittier than mine, because wheelbarrowing mulch all day around giant fucking mansions suddenly didn't seem so bad), I'd gladly drop the bullshit and accept that beer(s), because more than likely that is the most feedback they've gotten all day. Let's just say if you are trying to sell Kirby Vacuums to octogenarians and Arabians (who you can't understand a word they say), chances are you are gonna wanna try and drink that shit off of your mind.
Get this, Cletus (I mentioned earlier I didn't get his name, so I randomly picked a name) told me that these machines have lifetime warranties; yes, that means when Grandma Ethyl dies at age 90, some lucky offspring will get the kirby and its warranty. Man, a vacuum that won't die- that's almost as good as getting an assload of money, jewels, land, or some other shit of value. I know I'd be happy as shit if my brother and sister got a nice chunk of change, and I got the Vacuum. Thanks Grandma!
These Vacuums are essentially the gift that keeps on giving.
Anyways, Cletus power chugged his second Hamm's, cleaned up, thanked me for the beer, picked up his shit, and was gone. Funny enough, so was the mystery stain.
In retrospect, I guess the moral of the story is that if you ever meet a poorly educated kid from a shithole section of Iowa (which is pretty common) who is trying to sell vacuums to people who don't really need it just to get by, give him a beer. It makes you a humanitarian.
It was over before it began
I knew last night for the Twins would be disappointing, well before the first pitch, before the national anthem, and even before the game telecast (which I did not disseminate) began. Twins Live, the pregame show, flashed the pitching matchup for last nights game;
For Minnesota:
Johan Santana, future Hall of Famer, reigning Cy Young (which should be the case for the past 3 years), 3-1 record, leads the league in Strikeouts, Best Pitcher in Baseball.
For Cleveland:
Fausto Carmona, Vagabond, a pitcher talented enough to keep on the roster, but not effective in any role so far, so what the hell said Manager Eric Wedge, let's make him a starter.
Makes you think its a slam dunk, right? Then they flashed this little gem of a stat for Carmona:
"HAS NOT WON IN HIS PAST ELEVEN STARTS"
The Twins lost last night 5-3. Carmona went 7 and 2/3 innings, 6 hits, 2 earned runs, 2 walks, 2 strikeouts, 96 pitches to get the win over Johan Santana.
This my friends, is what we call in the business a "jinx stat".
And really, did Jason Kubel go 3-4? About fucking time.
For Minnesota:
Johan Santana, future Hall of Famer, reigning Cy Young (which should be the case for the past 3 years), 3-1 record, leads the league in Strikeouts, Best Pitcher in Baseball.
For Cleveland:
Fausto Carmona, Vagabond, a pitcher talented enough to keep on the roster, but not effective in any role so far, so what the hell said Manager Eric Wedge, let's make him a starter.
Makes you think its a slam dunk, right? Then they flashed this little gem of a stat for Carmona:
"HAS NOT WON IN HIS PAST ELEVEN STARTS"
The Twins lost last night 5-3. Carmona went 7 and 2/3 innings, 6 hits, 2 earned runs, 2 walks, 2 strikeouts, 96 pitches to get the win over Johan Santana.
This my friends, is what we call in the business a "jinx stat".
And really, did Jason Kubel go 3-4? About fucking time.
Tuesday, April 24, 2007
Ouch
Our bullpen, notably jesse crain, shit the bed for us last night. We lose 7-3 in 12 to the damned Indians, who were powered by Travis Hafner and his fricking 4-4 night. Torii Hunter was pretty much the only one to play with some heart, hustling for a double early on, and then sending a bomb into left field.
But....we wouldn't have gone 12 if someone had done something with runners on base...*cough* Cuddyer, Morneau, Kubel *cough*
But....we wouldn't have gone 12 if someone had done something with runners on base...*cough* Cuddyer, Morneau, Kubel *cough*
Sunday, April 22, 2007
Please Forgive the tardiness.
I completely murphed on the usual Hot Chick on Friday premise. It probably had to do with the fact that I was completely disgusted with how Minnesota laid down to Anaheim Thursday night.
Anyways, Here's Eva Mendes to start off your week.
Wild Report Card, Part II
http://www.startribune.com/1330/story/1136304.html
"Unlike last summer, when the Wild made a splash trading for Pavol Demitra and signing Kim Johnsson, Mark Parrish and Keith Carney on July 1, the Wild this year will look "for solutions more internally.""
I truly don't anticipate much by way of Free Agents this offseason, since we're going to give a couple guys (PMB, Koivu, etc.) a nice amount of dough. This means we could very well see guys like Roman Voloshenko, Danny Irmen, Clayton Stoner, etc. get legitimate shots at making the roster.
Also in the article it appears Fernandez' days in Minnesota are essentially numbered.
I forgot to grade out Dominic Moore, but since he sat in the press box nearly the entire time, so I won't really bother. He did show some potential in his two goal game in Buffalo, but other than that, I don't really know what to say. There were people who were saying he still has untapped potential, meaning he can still develop and not be a press box fixture (I hear he worked himself a nice ass groove in one of the chairs up there.) He is very likely Todd White or Wes Walz' replacement.
It is kind of crazy how edgy and nasty playoff hockey can be; Detroit and Calgary got really chippy last night. Daymond Langkow pot shotted Brett Lebda while he was down, Jarome Iginla followed Mathieu Schneider cross checking him the entire way trying to instigate a fight, Jamie McLennan two handed Johan Franzen...But really its not a surprise, especially with a Daryl Sutter driven team. The Flames buy into the whole "if you can't beat them, beat them up" mantra.
Ducks GM Brian Burke, well known asshole, continues to rip Minnesota for being classless in losing:
http://www.startribune.com/1330/story/1127710.html
http://www.ocregister.com/ocregister/sports/columns/article_1666099.php
Burke was GM of the Vancouver Canucks during the 03 playoffs, and also during the Steve Moore/Todd Bertuzzi incident; He is a polarizing figure to say the least.
What I would like to see in the offseason;
1. Resign the necessary RFA's; Harding, PMB, Koivu, etc.
2. Acquire a hard nosed physical stay at home defenseman.
3. Resign Backstrom
4. Trade Fernandez; this may be tricky, so we may have to sweeten the pot in order for someone to bite. Maybe going this route will get us another pick or said D.
"Unlike last summer, when the Wild made a splash trading for Pavol Demitra and signing Kim Johnsson, Mark Parrish and Keith Carney on July 1, the Wild this year will look "for solutions more internally.""
I truly don't anticipate much by way of Free Agents this offseason, since we're going to give a couple guys (PMB, Koivu, etc.) a nice amount of dough. This means we could very well see guys like Roman Voloshenko, Danny Irmen, Clayton Stoner, etc. get legitimate shots at making the roster.
Also in the article it appears Fernandez' days in Minnesota are essentially numbered.
I forgot to grade out Dominic Moore, but since he sat in the press box nearly the entire time, so I won't really bother. He did show some potential in his two goal game in Buffalo, but other than that, I don't really know what to say. There were people who were saying he still has untapped potential, meaning he can still develop and not be a press box fixture (I hear he worked himself a nice ass groove in one of the chairs up there.) He is very likely Todd White or Wes Walz' replacement.
It is kind of crazy how edgy and nasty playoff hockey can be; Detroit and Calgary got really chippy last night. Daymond Langkow pot shotted Brett Lebda while he was down, Jarome Iginla followed Mathieu Schneider cross checking him the entire way trying to instigate a fight, Jamie McLennan two handed Johan Franzen...But really its not a surprise, especially with a Daryl Sutter driven team. The Flames buy into the whole "if you can't beat them, beat them up" mantra.
Ducks GM Brian Burke, well known asshole, continues to rip Minnesota for being classless in losing:
http://www.startribune.com/1330/story/1127710.html
http://www.ocregister.com/ocregister/sports/columns/article_1666099.php
Burke was GM of the Vancouver Canucks during the 03 playoffs, and also during the Steve Moore/Todd Bertuzzi incident; He is a polarizing figure to say the least.
What I would like to see in the offseason;
1. Resign the necessary RFA's; Harding, PMB, Koivu, etc.
2. Acquire a hard nosed physical stay at home defenseman.
3. Resign Backstrom
4. Trade Fernandez; this may be tricky, so we may have to sweeten the pot in order for someone to bite. Maybe going this route will get us another pick or said D.
Warcraft is for the kids
I never fully understood the depth of the addiction that can be The World of Warcraft.
until now.
http://www.thewolfweb.com/message_topic.aspx?topic=471145
until now.
http://www.thewolfweb.com/message_topic.aspx?topic=471145
Saturday, April 21, 2007
School's Out...Report Card time. (Part 1 of how many I feel like doing)
While the Wild's season ended rather undramatically, and in disappointing fashion, this year marked the beginning of break throughs for not just some of the "kids", but a few veterans also. The team started hot, and coincidentally they began to struggle when Marian Gaborik went down for 34 games, and then went on fire the last half, again coincidentally with the return of Gaborik, and the coming out party for Niklas Backstrom. The playoffs were disappointing for Wild Nation, as the squad was stifled, outmuscled, out hustled, and just plain beat by Anaheim. This is only the beginning though; for some it was the first playoff experience they've had. To be honest I never really anticipated the Wild say, winning it all, but this year was a solid step in that direction. The real test will be next year, with much of the same team returning, and a few minor pieces changing, coaching immortality still there. After a full year of building chemistry, and the contributions of the younger guys make Minnesota a real legitimate threat next year.
Mark Parrish...B...The Captain was brought in for the garbage goals, and putting in work in the toughest area on the ice: Right in front of the net. Parrish got off to an awful start, eventually getting benched before he went to Jacques Lemaire to ask him what is wrong with his play. The discovery of asthma was attributed to part of it, but also Lemaire told him to play better with the puck. Parrish came short of 20 goals for the first time of his career, but what he did without the puck became the gold standard for hard work, hustle, and leading by example. While its no secret that Parrish, a legitimate goal scorer, needs talent on his line to be truly effective, his play the last half of the year has opened up a new level for him as far as play making and effort go. While he didn't produce what many thought he would, he has become a better all around player, which is a trade off I will make.
Brent Burns...B+/A-...Burns began the year a healthy scratch, amazingly our 7th Dman until he was moved to forward for another stint. The injury bug hit the blueline, and Burns went back to defense and took off from there. His waterloo was a terrible St. Louis game, and with the mentoring of Keith Carney, he never looked back. Burns, while he is still developing, is turning into a franchise defenseman, a very mobile skater for a big kid, burgeoning offensive instincts from his days as a forward coupled with an already capable defensive game (although he might dive too much) make him a certain impact player for the Wild for years. His point total in the playoffs was modest, but also a reflection of how the team played; but there is no question he took big strides as a player. He fought twice, and started to play with more sandpaper to his game, hitting bodies and even fighting. The former 20th overall pick doesn't seem like so much of a reach now, does he?
Brian Rolston...B...the first half of the season was near mvp pace for Rolston, who scored 30 goals for the second straight year, leading to his first All-Star appearance. But a nasty bout of the flu slowed his roll the second half of the season, and ultimately he was inconsequential in the playoffs. Unfortunately that seems to be a trend for Rolston, to be rather ineffective in the playoffs, but it is unfair for you or I to solely judge him based on 2 points in 5 playoff games this year. He still remains part of the backbone of the Wild, and you can count on another solid campaign next year.
Kim Johnsson...C+/B-...Kimmy got a real big paycheck when he signed on to the Wild, coming from Philadelphia as one of the more underrated number 1 defensemen in the league. Despite missing 31 games last year because of a concussion and vertigo, he has cleared to play and brought his game to Minnesota; running the power play, excellent breakout passes, the ability to move the puck out of the zone quickly. He, however, did not bring the offensive totals from years past, which dismayed many. I truly think there is some miscommunication as far as Johnsson and the Coaching staff goes; For a traditionally offensive guy, all season long Johnsson repeatedly said his focus was on defense...so early in the year when he was offensively active, Lemaire put the reins on him...then toward the end of the year people got bent out of shape because he wasn't producing. What the hell? Paired with a stay at home guy like Nick Schultz shoudl enable Johnsson to be more pro-active...when it boils down to it, it is defense first in Minnesota. Twas a shame for his season to get ended like it did, sucker punched by Brad May. According to Tom Lynn, his concussion symptoms have begun to recede quickly, which is a good sign. However this one, coupled with years past, may give Johnsson the injury-prone label. Here's hoping he's healthy come camp.
Branko Radivojievic...B-...Kind of considered a surprise signing, one that is meant more to give Gaborik incentive to resign, Radio played on all 4 lines at one point this season. He settled in nicely on the 4th line, combining with Wyatt Smith and Stephane Veillieux to form one of the better fourth lines in the league. Branko has an underrated shot, getting 11 goals and 13 assists. He also displayed some grit, leveling a few people and participating in a few donnybrooks. Frankly he's become a pleasant surprise.
Derek Boogaard...A...considering his role is vastly different from everyone else, he was very effective. A sore thumb on a team of manicured cuticles, Boogaard drew more penalties than he took, rearranged Todd Fedoruk's face, even displayed some ability to be a hockey player. His status as a Minnesota Cult Icon grew immensely with his Game 4 performance, an assist on the GTG, and his position as Damage Control. No one can deny how cool it was when 19,000 people were chanting Boogaard during that game. He singlehandedly destroyed the Edmonton Oilers. He (unfairly so) is also the poster boy with what many see is wrong with the NHL, the goonish element (which people need to understand is needed, not so much for entertainment, but for the safety and well-being of teammates), and was denied access to the ice during tv timeouts, whilst other enforcers were allowed to go stretch and skate around, even in the same game. Minnesota has done a tremendous job with a kid who "will never ever see a shift of NHL hockey", according to a scouting report.
Petteri Nummelin...D...Maybe Risebrough and Co. got too much of a hard-on when it came to International competitions; Sure, putting Gaborik and Demitra together was a masterful move, but the success of Nummelin on the Int'l stage and in Switzerland isn't necessarily an indicator of his success here in the so-called "new nhl." He does have tremendous vision, wonderful passing skills, and can move the puck...but he is a defenseman, and let's just say his defensive game is kind of a liability. Shortish in stature, you won't find him burying shoulders into guys, rubbing them out of the the play into the boards, and clearing bodies from the crease. His primary weapon is the poke check, which is russian roulette like; sometimes it works, but more often it doesn't. It was surprising he saw time in the playoffs, especially considering our opponent, and I guess you could say he did well. I'm not sold on this "novelty", and no offense to the Nummelin rubes out there, I'd rather see his spot go to someone else, maybe one of the kids; Reitz, Stokes, Stoner, etc...Another note worth mentioning was his health, since he was oft injured throughout the season.
Niklas Backstrom...A...Not bad for a "rookie"...the William Jennings trophy (along with Manny Fernandez) for least goals allowed in the league, complete confidence from your coach, teammates, and now Wild Nation, and presumably played himself into a promising financial situation. Backstrom, who many went "Who?" when he signed, is now a house hold name in Minnesota, and many are campaigning for him to re-sign, and deal away former no.1 guy Fernandez. Backstrom's cool and calm manner greatly attributed to the Wild's run at the division title, him and Gaborik the catalysts for a stellar second half record. With the arrival of Josh Harding, and the play of Backstrom, it looks like Fernandez could be the odd man out.
Mikko Koivu...B+...no one, with the exception of Brent Burns, made a greater improvement than Mikko Koivu this year. Quickly turning the tide towards the boom side of the "boom or bust" label, Mikko displayed a gritty and solid 2-way game, and added some offensive zeal as well; 20 goals and 34 assists, a 33 point improvement from last year. He is the prototype Lemaire center; defensively responsible character guy who does all the little things right in all 3 zones. He provided stability to any set of wingers that were struggling, he killed penalties (very underrated, he often generated short handed chances for himself or others), he got buttloads of PP time, and showed flashes of complete dominance. There were many times this year where he would almost make a play that would have led to something, but just missed it; the dangle along the halfwall, cycling behind the net, the one timer he didn't get solid wood on, the times he gets knocked off the puck. Those things are going to come to him, making him a scary player everytime he's out there. He played in all 82 games, and all 5 playoff games, effectively shedding the injury prone label he got in his draft year. He will be our future #1 center for years to come.
Keith Carney...A...He was a rock all year long after a slowish start, setting a wild record with a +22. He provided steady play on the back end, serving as a foil for a young thoroughbred in Brent Burns. A saavy pickup for Minnesota, his mentorship and leadership are two valued qualities, especially with a youngish team. The highlight of his year was undoubtedly the Bobby Orr-esque end to end rush against Edmonton. Not bad for a guy in his late 30's.
Stephane Veillieux...C+...similar to Radio really. His played picked up immensely once the 4th line was formed, and emerged as a playoff guy, a guy who will hit, fight, and bring energy at all times; basically one of those character guys you win championships with. I'd like to see him score a bit more, I know he has the ability to do so.
Todd Blanco...C...another injury-stained year for the Blanco. He also fits the bill for a Lemaire center, a speedy two way guy. I can't tell you how many times he just took the puck off of other players sticks, made great passes, or made plays using his underrated speed. The injury bug was a big one again this year, a knee injury later in the year sort of deflated his output. He does have great chemistry with Rolston and Bouchard, but as a UFA this summer, we may just let him walk and let Dom Moore take his place.
Wes Walz...B-...the quintessential warrior, and one of the remaining Wild Aborigines, Walzy once again played his role to a tee; he killed penalties, shut down opponents, and even anchored the slovaks. Unfortunately, Father Time is catching up with Wes, despite his conditioning. He only played 62 games this year, and he isn't getting any younger. Ideally we as fans would like to see him retire here in Minnesota, and to be honest I don't know what sort of market there would be for him as a guy in his late 30's. Retirement could be a very real possibility, and if that's the case, look for him to get a ceremonial night ala Ken Danyeko in New Jersey.
Marian Gaborik...A-/B+...Goddamn groin injuries. With someone to finally play with, Gaborik ended the season with a great scoring rate; he would have had 97-98 points if he had played the whole season. The injury ordeal is frustrating, but I think it has spurned a newfound notion for Marian to take care of himself and to condition and prevent it from happening again. It always seems that its all hypotheticals with him; What if he was healthy all year? What if he had someone to play with? Barring any unforeseen circumstance, 2007-08 will be the year we find out. He could have some hardware by year's end, and with his playoff pedigree, perhaps more.
Pavol Demitra...B...Demitra came in the most shocking transaction in Wild history, with the dealings of a first rounder and uber-prospect Patrick O'Sullivan going to LA for his services. The chemistry between he and Gaborik was no surprise, and that was evident in the 48 games they played together. But outside of those, and maybe another 10 or so, Demitra was lost out there. He also missed a few games with a concussion (a huge Anton Volchenkov stand up hit in Ottawa), and a leg injury, but the Ghost Faced Killer picked up the pace at the end. The shift from center to wing has opened up Demitra's offensive capability, but with he and Gaborik on the wings, its just a matter of finding a pivot for those two.
PMB...B...Pretty much the same totals from last year, although the 20 goals was the result of an effort for the gifted passer and playmaker to shoot the puck more. There is still plenty of offensive upside there, and Bouchard now uses his world-class vision and anticipation to become increasingly effective on the forecheck and in his own zone. Full time duty in the playoffs was beneficial for PMB also, he got more time than he did in 03. At his best he's a water bug out there, dancing with the puck, and making dazzling passes.
Wyatt Smith...C...The pivot on the 4th line; I guess the same could be said here as for the other two. Smith really didn't find his way until the 4th line started to click, although he was called on late in games for his defensive capabilities. Smith is a UFA; whether or not he'll be brought back is in question...while he became effective as the season went on, as a 4th liner he is low on the totem pole. But with White and Walz also being UFA, that goddamn Terfer may find himself a new contract from Minnesota.
Adam Hall...B...5 points in the 20 odd games in a Wild uni may not elicit a B grade per say, but the style of game Hall plays was sorely needed. A north-south, crash, bang, and cycle kind of guy, Hall became extremely effective when coupled with Koivu and Parrish. Glen Sonmor, former U coach and also a Wild Scout, campaigned for Minnesota to get Hall in his draft year. He can score some goals, he scored 30 or so at Michigan State, and has some playoff experience. Hall brings some grit and physicality to a rather soft Wild lineup. He's RFA, but I would keep him for another year.
Nick Schultz...B+...The Hammer gets some unfair criticism sometimes- his job, as a very solid #2 guy, is to shutdown the opposition's top lines. Occasionally he makes a mistake and gets villified for it, but considering what his role is, his name likely isn't going to be on the score sheet. Lemaire has mentioned he'd like to see more offensive output from him, and many of us in Wild Nation feel the same; the how is he gonna do that? He plays with Johnsson, the designated puck mover/offensive guy; he doesn't really see any PP time, he's a stay at home guy. But he is very mobile, and I've felt for a long time (I'm a Hammer fan since his rookie year) that he is good at picking his spots, especially in Odd man rushes and OT's...He hit a good amount of posts this year, and owns a heavy shot, so maybe its just a matter of shooting more. I would like to see him become a bit more physical, get some more sandpaper in his game. But still, you have to love what he does night in and night out.
Kurtis Foster...C-...when it boils down to it, Foster is nothing but a PP specialist. Usually the biggest guy on the ice, he plays like Nummelin, not using his size to his advantage. Plagued by some hard-luck injuries, he's been in and out of the lineup; which may be his undoing, where Brent Burns has taken over his spot on the PP. His lack of hitting is frustrating, and we as a team may be better served having someone with some toughness than someone so seemingly one dimensional.
Martin Skoula...B-/C+...the perennial goat, the possessor of PUCK POISE, Skoula really didn't have that bad of a year. When he is playing great, no one really notices, but when he's now, he has a giant neon arrow above him. Sometimes its feast or famine with him. One night you'll get 28 minutes and a +3 out of him, and some nights it will be a bad turnover in the defensive zone that leads to a goal. The more time you give him, the better he is- so does that mean we aren't using him effectively, should he be a #4 as opposed to a #5 or a #6? His playoff experience on the backend is a plus, since the team is poised to be a perennial playoff team. Risebrough has made comments that he'd like to resign Skoula, but he may command some nice coin on the FA market.
Manny Fernandez...C+...He started the year as the #1 guy, and now he may be looking at playing somewhere else. Flashes of brilliance peppered with soft goals and now a lingering injury have left him 3rd on the depth chart. There is no doubt he has the tools to be an elite goalie; its a question if he has it mentally. Tempestuous and often ornery, self-doubting, and aloof, this year has been rough for him. Shopping him may be more of a chore than a cakewalk; he carries a 4.33 million dollar price tag this year, and 4.75 next. There are few teams looking for a true #1 goalie, so we may have to sweeten to pot for someone to bite on his salary. However, if he is moved, that frees up alot of cap space for potential free agents or prospects.
And the not ready for primetime players...
Josh Harding...already endearing to Wild Nation, he will be with the team next year per Risebrough. The glimpses of his talent are mouth-watering, and he will begin his internship next year; whether its behind backstrom or manny is the question.
Shawn Belle...all the tools...little hockey sense. A true project in the sense of the word, he isn't ready for full-time duty in my opinion, and will need some serious tutoring to get to that point.
Joel Ward...a lovable character guy, he played himself into a contract out of training camp. Whether that cinderella story will continue is unknown, but he brought what you need out of your traditional 4th liner. To be honest I wouldn't mind keeping him around.
Matt Foy...finally got his shit together in Houston, which was terribly shitty this year, but hernia surgery derailed his chance to break team out of camp. He and Adam Hall are essentially the same player, however this may be the last of Foy in the Wild Organization.
Benoit Pouliot...he got a short cup of coffee earlier this year, with little to show for it. He oozes talent, seems to have understand what it takes to make it, but just has to put it all together. He may need some seasoning in the AHL for now.
Danny Irmen...from what I've heard, he was one of the more consistent players on a bad team. We're familiar with his game, gritty 2-way winger who can score some goals. He could play himself onto the team next year, I think he's in a better position than any of the other forward prospects, with the exception of...
James Sheppard...yes, my endless pimping of him never ceases to stop. He is like Koivu, the prototypical Lemaire center. He dominated the Quebec junior league, and has as good a shot as any to break camp with the team because he's so responsible in all zones, has a great work effort, and can play any role asked of him. With Walz, White, and Smith being UFA's, the door may be open for him. He essentially has nothing left to prove at Cape Breton, but is too young for the AHL...so if he has a great camp, would Minnesota be willing to start the free agency clock when he's only 19?
Mark Parrish...B...The Captain was brought in for the garbage goals, and putting in work in the toughest area on the ice: Right in front of the net. Parrish got off to an awful start, eventually getting benched before he went to Jacques Lemaire to ask him what is wrong with his play. The discovery of asthma was attributed to part of it, but also Lemaire told him to play better with the puck. Parrish came short of 20 goals for the first time of his career, but what he did without the puck became the gold standard for hard work, hustle, and leading by example. While its no secret that Parrish, a legitimate goal scorer, needs talent on his line to be truly effective, his play the last half of the year has opened up a new level for him as far as play making and effort go. While he didn't produce what many thought he would, he has become a better all around player, which is a trade off I will make.
Brent Burns...B+/A-...Burns began the year a healthy scratch, amazingly our 7th Dman until he was moved to forward for another stint. The injury bug hit the blueline, and Burns went back to defense and took off from there. His waterloo was a terrible St. Louis game, and with the mentoring of Keith Carney, he never looked back. Burns, while he is still developing, is turning into a franchise defenseman, a very mobile skater for a big kid, burgeoning offensive instincts from his days as a forward coupled with an already capable defensive game (although he might dive too much) make him a certain impact player for the Wild for years. His point total in the playoffs was modest, but also a reflection of how the team played; but there is no question he took big strides as a player. He fought twice, and started to play with more sandpaper to his game, hitting bodies and even fighting. The former 20th overall pick doesn't seem like so much of a reach now, does he?
Brian Rolston...B...the first half of the season was near mvp pace for Rolston, who scored 30 goals for the second straight year, leading to his first All-Star appearance. But a nasty bout of the flu slowed his roll the second half of the season, and ultimately he was inconsequential in the playoffs. Unfortunately that seems to be a trend for Rolston, to be rather ineffective in the playoffs, but it is unfair for you or I to solely judge him based on 2 points in 5 playoff games this year. He still remains part of the backbone of the Wild, and you can count on another solid campaign next year.
Kim Johnsson...C+/B-...Kimmy got a real big paycheck when he signed on to the Wild, coming from Philadelphia as one of the more underrated number 1 defensemen in the league. Despite missing 31 games last year because of a concussion and vertigo, he has cleared to play and brought his game to Minnesota; running the power play, excellent breakout passes, the ability to move the puck out of the zone quickly. He, however, did not bring the offensive totals from years past, which dismayed many. I truly think there is some miscommunication as far as Johnsson and the Coaching staff goes; For a traditionally offensive guy, all season long Johnsson repeatedly said his focus was on defense...so early in the year when he was offensively active, Lemaire put the reins on him...then toward the end of the year people got bent out of shape because he wasn't producing. What the hell? Paired with a stay at home guy like Nick Schultz shoudl enable Johnsson to be more pro-active...when it boils down to it, it is defense first in Minnesota. Twas a shame for his season to get ended like it did, sucker punched by Brad May. According to Tom Lynn, his concussion symptoms have begun to recede quickly, which is a good sign. However this one, coupled with years past, may give Johnsson the injury-prone label. Here's hoping he's healthy come camp.
Branko Radivojievic...B-...Kind of considered a surprise signing, one that is meant more to give Gaborik incentive to resign, Radio played on all 4 lines at one point this season. He settled in nicely on the 4th line, combining with Wyatt Smith and Stephane Veillieux to form one of the better fourth lines in the league. Branko has an underrated shot, getting 11 goals and 13 assists. He also displayed some grit, leveling a few people and participating in a few donnybrooks. Frankly he's become a pleasant surprise.
Derek Boogaard...A...considering his role is vastly different from everyone else, he was very effective. A sore thumb on a team of manicured cuticles, Boogaard drew more penalties than he took, rearranged Todd Fedoruk's face, even displayed some ability to be a hockey player. His status as a Minnesota Cult Icon grew immensely with his Game 4 performance, an assist on the GTG, and his position as Damage Control. No one can deny how cool it was when 19,000 people were chanting Boogaard during that game. He singlehandedly destroyed the Edmonton Oilers. He (unfairly so) is also the poster boy with what many see is wrong with the NHL, the goonish element (which people need to understand is needed, not so much for entertainment, but for the safety and well-being of teammates), and was denied access to the ice during tv timeouts, whilst other enforcers were allowed to go stretch and skate around, even in the same game. Minnesota has done a tremendous job with a kid who "will never ever see a shift of NHL hockey", according to a scouting report.
Petteri Nummelin...D...Maybe Risebrough and Co. got too much of a hard-on when it came to International competitions; Sure, putting Gaborik and Demitra together was a masterful move, but the success of Nummelin on the Int'l stage and in Switzerland isn't necessarily an indicator of his success here in the so-called "new nhl." He does have tremendous vision, wonderful passing skills, and can move the puck...but he is a defenseman, and let's just say his defensive game is kind of a liability. Shortish in stature, you won't find him burying shoulders into guys, rubbing them out of the the play into the boards, and clearing bodies from the crease. His primary weapon is the poke check, which is russian roulette like; sometimes it works, but more often it doesn't. It was surprising he saw time in the playoffs, especially considering our opponent, and I guess you could say he did well. I'm not sold on this "novelty", and no offense to the Nummelin rubes out there, I'd rather see his spot go to someone else, maybe one of the kids; Reitz, Stokes, Stoner, etc...Another note worth mentioning was his health, since he was oft injured throughout the season.
Niklas Backstrom...A...Not bad for a "rookie"...the William Jennings trophy (along with Manny Fernandez) for least goals allowed in the league, complete confidence from your coach, teammates, and now Wild Nation, and presumably played himself into a promising financial situation. Backstrom, who many went "Who?" when he signed, is now a house hold name in Minnesota, and many are campaigning for him to re-sign, and deal away former no.1 guy Fernandez. Backstrom's cool and calm manner greatly attributed to the Wild's run at the division title, him and Gaborik the catalysts for a stellar second half record. With the arrival of Josh Harding, and the play of Backstrom, it looks like Fernandez could be the odd man out.
Mikko Koivu...B+...no one, with the exception of Brent Burns, made a greater improvement than Mikko Koivu this year. Quickly turning the tide towards the boom side of the "boom or bust" label, Mikko displayed a gritty and solid 2-way game, and added some offensive zeal as well; 20 goals and 34 assists, a 33 point improvement from last year. He is the prototype Lemaire center; defensively responsible character guy who does all the little things right in all 3 zones. He provided stability to any set of wingers that were struggling, he killed penalties (very underrated, he often generated short handed chances for himself or others), he got buttloads of PP time, and showed flashes of complete dominance. There were many times this year where he would almost make a play that would have led to something, but just missed it; the dangle along the halfwall, cycling behind the net, the one timer he didn't get solid wood on, the times he gets knocked off the puck. Those things are going to come to him, making him a scary player everytime he's out there. He played in all 82 games, and all 5 playoff games, effectively shedding the injury prone label he got in his draft year. He will be our future #1 center for years to come.
Keith Carney...A...He was a rock all year long after a slowish start, setting a wild record with a +22. He provided steady play on the back end, serving as a foil for a young thoroughbred in Brent Burns. A saavy pickup for Minnesota, his mentorship and leadership are two valued qualities, especially with a youngish team. The highlight of his year was undoubtedly the Bobby Orr-esque end to end rush against Edmonton. Not bad for a guy in his late 30's.
Stephane Veillieux...C+...similar to Radio really. His played picked up immensely once the 4th line was formed, and emerged as a playoff guy, a guy who will hit, fight, and bring energy at all times; basically one of those character guys you win championships with. I'd like to see him score a bit more, I know he has the ability to do so.
Todd Blanco...C...another injury-stained year for the Blanco. He also fits the bill for a Lemaire center, a speedy two way guy. I can't tell you how many times he just took the puck off of other players sticks, made great passes, or made plays using his underrated speed. The injury bug was a big one again this year, a knee injury later in the year sort of deflated his output. He does have great chemistry with Rolston and Bouchard, but as a UFA this summer, we may just let him walk and let Dom Moore take his place.
Wes Walz...B-...the quintessential warrior, and one of the remaining Wild Aborigines, Walzy once again played his role to a tee; he killed penalties, shut down opponents, and even anchored the slovaks. Unfortunately, Father Time is catching up with Wes, despite his conditioning. He only played 62 games this year, and he isn't getting any younger. Ideally we as fans would like to see him retire here in Minnesota, and to be honest I don't know what sort of market there would be for him as a guy in his late 30's. Retirement could be a very real possibility, and if that's the case, look for him to get a ceremonial night ala Ken Danyeko in New Jersey.
Marian Gaborik...A-/B+...Goddamn groin injuries. With someone to finally play with, Gaborik ended the season with a great scoring rate; he would have had 97-98 points if he had played the whole season. The injury ordeal is frustrating, but I think it has spurned a newfound notion for Marian to take care of himself and to condition and prevent it from happening again. It always seems that its all hypotheticals with him; What if he was healthy all year? What if he had someone to play with? Barring any unforeseen circumstance, 2007-08 will be the year we find out. He could have some hardware by year's end, and with his playoff pedigree, perhaps more.
Pavol Demitra...B...Demitra came in the most shocking transaction in Wild history, with the dealings of a first rounder and uber-prospect Patrick O'Sullivan going to LA for his services. The chemistry between he and Gaborik was no surprise, and that was evident in the 48 games they played together. But outside of those, and maybe another 10 or so, Demitra was lost out there. He also missed a few games with a concussion (a huge Anton Volchenkov stand up hit in Ottawa), and a leg injury, but the Ghost Faced Killer picked up the pace at the end. The shift from center to wing has opened up Demitra's offensive capability, but with he and Gaborik on the wings, its just a matter of finding a pivot for those two.
PMB...B...Pretty much the same totals from last year, although the 20 goals was the result of an effort for the gifted passer and playmaker to shoot the puck more. There is still plenty of offensive upside there, and Bouchard now uses his world-class vision and anticipation to become increasingly effective on the forecheck and in his own zone. Full time duty in the playoffs was beneficial for PMB also, he got more time than he did in 03. At his best he's a water bug out there, dancing with the puck, and making dazzling passes.
Wyatt Smith...C...The pivot on the 4th line; I guess the same could be said here as for the other two. Smith really didn't find his way until the 4th line started to click, although he was called on late in games for his defensive capabilities. Smith is a UFA; whether or not he'll be brought back is in question...while he became effective as the season went on, as a 4th liner he is low on the totem pole. But with White and Walz also being UFA, that goddamn Terfer may find himself a new contract from Minnesota.
Adam Hall...B...5 points in the 20 odd games in a Wild uni may not elicit a B grade per say, but the style of game Hall plays was sorely needed. A north-south, crash, bang, and cycle kind of guy, Hall became extremely effective when coupled with Koivu and Parrish. Glen Sonmor, former U coach and also a Wild Scout, campaigned for Minnesota to get Hall in his draft year. He can score some goals, he scored 30 or so at Michigan State, and has some playoff experience. Hall brings some grit and physicality to a rather soft Wild lineup. He's RFA, but I would keep him for another year.
Nick Schultz...B+...The Hammer gets some unfair criticism sometimes- his job, as a very solid #2 guy, is to shutdown the opposition's top lines. Occasionally he makes a mistake and gets villified for it, but considering what his role is, his name likely isn't going to be on the score sheet. Lemaire has mentioned he'd like to see more offensive output from him, and many of us in Wild Nation feel the same; the how is he gonna do that? He plays with Johnsson, the designated puck mover/offensive guy; he doesn't really see any PP time, he's a stay at home guy. But he is very mobile, and I've felt for a long time (I'm a Hammer fan since his rookie year) that he is good at picking his spots, especially in Odd man rushes and OT's...He hit a good amount of posts this year, and owns a heavy shot, so maybe its just a matter of shooting more. I would like to see him become a bit more physical, get some more sandpaper in his game. But still, you have to love what he does night in and night out.
Kurtis Foster...C-...when it boils down to it, Foster is nothing but a PP specialist. Usually the biggest guy on the ice, he plays like Nummelin, not using his size to his advantage. Plagued by some hard-luck injuries, he's been in and out of the lineup; which may be his undoing, where Brent Burns has taken over his spot on the PP. His lack of hitting is frustrating, and we as a team may be better served having someone with some toughness than someone so seemingly one dimensional.
Martin Skoula...B-/C+...the perennial goat, the possessor of PUCK POISE, Skoula really didn't have that bad of a year. When he is playing great, no one really notices, but when he's now, he has a giant neon arrow above him. Sometimes its feast or famine with him. One night you'll get 28 minutes and a +3 out of him, and some nights it will be a bad turnover in the defensive zone that leads to a goal. The more time you give him, the better he is- so does that mean we aren't using him effectively, should he be a #4 as opposed to a #5 or a #6? His playoff experience on the backend is a plus, since the team is poised to be a perennial playoff team. Risebrough has made comments that he'd like to resign Skoula, but he may command some nice coin on the FA market.
Manny Fernandez...C+...He started the year as the #1 guy, and now he may be looking at playing somewhere else. Flashes of brilliance peppered with soft goals and now a lingering injury have left him 3rd on the depth chart. There is no doubt he has the tools to be an elite goalie; its a question if he has it mentally. Tempestuous and often ornery, self-doubting, and aloof, this year has been rough for him. Shopping him may be more of a chore than a cakewalk; he carries a 4.33 million dollar price tag this year, and 4.75 next. There are few teams looking for a true #1 goalie, so we may have to sweeten to pot for someone to bite on his salary. However, if he is moved, that frees up alot of cap space for potential free agents or prospects.
And the not ready for primetime players...
Josh Harding...already endearing to Wild Nation, he will be with the team next year per Risebrough. The glimpses of his talent are mouth-watering, and he will begin his internship next year; whether its behind backstrom or manny is the question.
Shawn Belle...all the tools...little hockey sense. A true project in the sense of the word, he isn't ready for full-time duty in my opinion, and will need some serious tutoring to get to that point.
Joel Ward...a lovable character guy, he played himself into a contract out of training camp. Whether that cinderella story will continue is unknown, but he brought what you need out of your traditional 4th liner. To be honest I wouldn't mind keeping him around.
Matt Foy...finally got his shit together in Houston, which was terribly shitty this year, but hernia surgery derailed his chance to break team out of camp. He and Adam Hall are essentially the same player, however this may be the last of Foy in the Wild Organization.
Benoit Pouliot...he got a short cup of coffee earlier this year, with little to show for it. He oozes talent, seems to have understand what it takes to make it, but just has to put it all together. He may need some seasoning in the AHL for now.
Danny Irmen...from what I've heard, he was one of the more consistent players on a bad team. We're familiar with his game, gritty 2-way winger who can score some goals. He could play himself onto the team next year, I think he's in a better position than any of the other forward prospects, with the exception of...
James Sheppard...yes, my endless pimping of him never ceases to stop. He is like Koivu, the prototypical Lemaire center. He dominated the Quebec junior league, and has as good a shot as any to break camp with the team because he's so responsible in all zones, has a great work effort, and can play any role asked of him. With Walz, White, and Smith being UFA's, the door may be open for him. He essentially has nothing left to prove at Cape Breton, but is too young for the AHL...so if he has a great camp, would Minnesota be willing to start the free agency clock when he's only 19?
Friday, April 20, 2007
Pop Goes the Weasel
All the hype, attention, and the possible ramblings of a blood feud meant that game 5 could have been an epic, a 60 minute melee of non-stop aggression and physicality. The Wild, using "Punch a Duck in the Face for Kim Johnsson" as a rallying cry, marched right into a sold out Honda Center, and promptly got in Anaheim's face during warm-ups.
And that's about all they did.
Somehow, on the flight from Minnesota to California, all the desperation, anger, frustration, and the fact that they are still on the brink of elimination despite winning a big game 4, didn't somehow show up in luggage claim.
In what many would call deja vu from game 1, our team regressed into a semi-finesse team that the Ducks just ate up. Gone were the hits from our marquee guys, the chopping at the goaltender, crashing the net, and all the little things that are required to win playoff hockey. Back were the ineffective forecheck, the inept power play, the grit, and the willingness to stir it up. It was very disappointing to watch. Somehow I don't get it, where did the team from game 4 go?
The lone goal was all Wes Walz; he grabbed the puck and blew past Scott Niedermayer (no slouch himself) to create a 2 on 1, which Gaborik converted a beautiful pass from Wes. The shorthanded goal gave us a glimmer of hope, which disappeared when Ryan Getzlaf's post kissing goal a few minutes later sent the Pond into a frenzy. Desperately we tried to get something going when they gave us nothing, sending out lines of plumbers, even Derek Boogaard during large choruses of "boos", and the time dwindled down to nothing. But I couldn't watch time run out. Last night was sort of like having a dog; you love and adore the dog, and he treats you well...but then he gets sick, and is a shade of what he used to be until one day he's the dog you knew and still think of him as. You feel things are looking up until he gets sick again, and it comes down to having to put him down...you're there until there very end, but can't stick around because it hurts to much to see him end.
I turned off the tv with 20 seconds left, my head swimming, my heart sullen, and our hockey team's season over. Somewhere in some way, something went wrong. What could have been...hell, I had tickets for game 6...
The Powderkeg I thought we were sitting on turned out to be a bottle rocket. And all it did was went "pop".
And that's about all they did.
Somehow, on the flight from Minnesota to California, all the desperation, anger, frustration, and the fact that they are still on the brink of elimination despite winning a big game 4, didn't somehow show up in luggage claim.
In what many would call deja vu from game 1, our team regressed into a semi-finesse team that the Ducks just ate up. Gone were the hits from our marquee guys, the chopping at the goaltender, crashing the net, and all the little things that are required to win playoff hockey. Back were the ineffective forecheck, the inept power play, the grit, and the willingness to stir it up. It was very disappointing to watch. Somehow I don't get it, where did the team from game 4 go?
The lone goal was all Wes Walz; he grabbed the puck and blew past Scott Niedermayer (no slouch himself) to create a 2 on 1, which Gaborik converted a beautiful pass from Wes. The shorthanded goal gave us a glimmer of hope, which disappeared when Ryan Getzlaf's post kissing goal a few minutes later sent the Pond into a frenzy. Desperately we tried to get something going when they gave us nothing, sending out lines of plumbers, even Derek Boogaard during large choruses of "boos", and the time dwindled down to nothing. But I couldn't watch time run out. Last night was sort of like having a dog; you love and adore the dog, and he treats you well...but then he gets sick, and is a shade of what he used to be until one day he's the dog you knew and still think of him as. You feel things are looking up until he gets sick again, and it comes down to having to put him down...you're there until there very end, but can't stick around because it hurts to much to see him end.
I turned off the tv with 20 seconds left, my head swimming, my heart sullen, and our hockey team's season over. Somewhere in some way, something went wrong. What could have been...hell, I had tickets for game 6...
The Powderkeg I thought we were sitting on turned out to be a bottle rocket. And all it did was went "pop".
Thursday, April 19, 2007
Quote of the day
In response to the youtube clip of 19,000 faithful chanting Boogaard's name in game 4:
"It's almost scary. It's like they are summoning a monster." - some message board lackey
Then I came across this.
Gotta love the photoshop.
Donny Lucia and the boys are singing the EJ Blues...
http://www.tsn.ca/nhl/news_story/?ID=204713&hubname=nhl
It sucks for the gophers, he was a key cog in the machine that dominated WCHA play...but his departure will also give room for David Fischer, Brian Schack, and RJ Anderson to get more ice time in key situations.
If I'm correct, I believe EJ has a clause in his contract where he will be released to participate in the World Junior Tournament around New Years.
It sucks for the gophers, he was a key cog in the machine that dominated WCHA play...but his departure will also give room for David Fischer, Brian Schack, and RJ Anderson to get more ice time in key situations.
If I'm correct, I believe EJ has a clause in his contract where he will be released to participate in the World Junior Tournament around New Years.
this is a classic.
http://youtube.com/watch?v=7X-LXI-nYq0
She's a beat reporter for the Stars at the Star Telegram in Dallas. Classic stuff.
She's a beat reporter for the Stars at the Star Telegram in Dallas. Classic stuff.
May gets 3 on High 5 Day
Brad May will no longer be a pain in the ass, as the league handed down a 3 game suspension for the sucker punch on Kim Johnsson. Johnsson, who has a history of concussion problems including missing the final 31 games last year with one, won't play tonight, and is doubtful even if the series goes on. In fact, something like this may be a potential career-threatening injury. Keith Primeau, Adam Deadmarsh, and Pat Lafontaine are among those who have had to cut their career short due to numerous concussions.
With this being said, Martin Skoula will get the lion's share of ice time tonight and in the future; I know alot of people bash Skoula, myself included, but I absolutely feel that the more ice time he gets, the better he performs. In fact, a few months back when Kim Johnsson was on the shelf, Skoula got upward of 28 minutes a game, and was a +8 during that stretch. Add in the fact that Skoula is no stranger to the playoff grind, he will step in near seamlessly. The onus will be on Brent Burns and Nick Schultz to step up their puck moving ability with Johnsson gone. Kurtis Foster should be the #6 guy tonight.
Its gonna be a powderkeg tonight kids. Look for George Parros, Anaheim's chief enforcer and moustache model, to play tonight. This essentially means there will be a time when he and Boogaard will meet. Get your popcorn. From all accounts at practice, the Wild were flying around, a stark contrast to the meloncholy and forlorn crowd that was just a few days ago. Finally, every fantasy rube and video gamer's dream, it looks like our top line will be Gaborik-Rolston-Demitra. Goddamn. Look for Adam Hall to stay in the lineup, and Stephane Veillieux to continue hitting people...I mean everything in sight.
Can't wait man...
With this being said, Martin Skoula will get the lion's share of ice time tonight and in the future; I know alot of people bash Skoula, myself included, but I absolutely feel that the more ice time he gets, the better he performs. In fact, a few months back when Kim Johnsson was on the shelf, Skoula got upward of 28 minutes a game, and was a +8 during that stretch. Add in the fact that Skoula is no stranger to the playoff grind, he will step in near seamlessly. The onus will be on Brent Burns and Nick Schultz to step up their puck moving ability with Johnsson gone. Kurtis Foster should be the #6 guy tonight.
Its gonna be a powderkeg tonight kids. Look for George Parros, Anaheim's chief enforcer and moustache model, to play tonight. This essentially means there will be a time when he and Boogaard will meet. Get your popcorn. From all accounts at practice, the Wild were flying around, a stark contrast to the meloncholy and forlorn crowd that was just a few days ago. Finally, every fantasy rube and video gamer's dream, it looks like our top line will be Gaborik-Rolston-Demitra. Goddamn. Look for Adam Hall to stay in the lineup, and Stephane Veillieux to continue hitting people...I mean everything in sight.
Can't wait man...
Wednesday, April 18, 2007
I will continue to...
...remain skeptical of Ramon Ortiz, as long as he keeps winning. He was very good last night, even when the team behind him put up a nice amount of run support for him. So with that being said, I'm still not sold. (And will remain so until he wins game #20)
Let Nick Punto take his time healing; Luis Rodriguez, or LROD as us folks in the biz call him, has filled in splendidly. I have always felt that LROD takes very good at bats, and defensively he has been solid, if not spectacular especially so far in this series in Seattle.
Once again I am your Jason Tyner Flag-Bearer, I feel he should be our starting left fielder, and have felt that way since the inception of the piranhas. He has more range, a stronger arm, more speed on the basepaths, and can hit as well as The Darkness and Jason "Fucking Do Something!" Kubel. Josh "Don't Fuck Up" Rabe doesn't factor into this equation. I understand that Kubel is (was?) highly touted as a serious hitting prospect, and Ro White likes it here and took a pay cut to stay, but c'mon. At its peak last year, this team had Tyner in the field everyday. Besides, he also gives the Twins another option at lead-off man.
Let Nick Punto take his time healing; Luis Rodriguez, or LROD as us folks in the biz call him, has filled in splendidly. I have always felt that LROD takes very good at bats, and defensively he has been solid, if not spectacular especially so far in this series in Seattle.
Once again I am your Jason Tyner Flag-Bearer, I feel he should be our starting left fielder, and have felt that way since the inception of the piranhas. He has more range, a stronger arm, more speed on the basepaths, and can hit as well as The Darkness and Jason "Fucking Do Something!" Kubel. Josh "Don't Fuck Up" Rabe doesn't factor into this equation. I understand that Kubel is (was?) highly touted as a serious hitting prospect, and Ro White likes it here and took a pay cut to stay, but c'mon. At its peak last year, this team had Tyner in the field everyday. Besides, he also gives the Twins another option at lead-off man.
Assonance!
As I blog from my bedside, beer in tow, and bulldog burying himself in the comforter on my backside, I watch the boys in blue battle those bastards from Seattle. We've bullied them so far in the series, batting in runs left and right, busting the bats of the opposition, and belittling their phenom pitcher until he bruised his bitch muscle, bouncing from the game between balls that were low and outside and right down the chute for our beloved batsmen. So far we've bashed the bean on the button, and Big Carlos Silva has buried one hitter after another. Some bad ass baseball for our beloved brigade bruise their way.
Tuesday, April 17, 2007
Your Jason Tyner for Starter Flag-bearer
Tyner, 3-5, 2 doubles, 2 runs, 1 RBI
I'd rather have him than Kubel, Rabe, and White.
I'd rather have him than Kubel, Rabe, and White.
The Pursuit of Posting Whilst the Sandman Pounds at the Parlor Door
Despite the bush-league officiating (which almost nailing the "blind ref" stereotype to a tee), some dirty plays, some male posturing, and 19,000 people waving kerchiefs, we win. That's right, put those brooms away Anaheimers, we're coming. And we're bringing the big guy.
As the series continues on, the explosive innuendo gains and gains with every hit, jab to the face, shove, fight, and altercation almost to a point where I am feeling like I am about to bungee jump; you are excited to see what is going to happen, that sort of anxious/nervous feeling that also leaves you scared to a degree. Brent Burns fought again, Derek Boogaard is starting to see plenty of ice time, even little Petteri Nummelin is leaning into the opposition. Stephane Veillieux is emerging as a playoff guy, who is excelling in this sort of smash hockey style of hockey. He saw alot of ice time tonight, in all situations.
The status of Kim Johnsson is a question, not so much from a blatant cheap shot from the soon-to-be suspended Brad May, but I saw him favor a knee a couple times during the game. A knee injury would essentially neuter the puck moving defenseman.
But finally, finally, our big guns scored; a roll call of the who's who here. Bouchard, Gaborik, Rolston, Parrish, Skou.....oh ya, I forgot Radio was in the crea.....slot. Parrish's deflection was just sickening, just effortless. The raucous crowd then reached deafening levels with the Burns kerfuffle soon afterwards. 19,000 people chanting "bullshit" (the "fertilizer chant", as Mike Greenlay coined it; he also repeatedly and rightedly so labeled the officiating "pathetic"), and "boogaard", which is like a giant middle finger to all the anti-fighting zealots. Really this whole series flies into the face of those, and it still has the makings of being an epic series. Maybe not a series per say- this first round could end up being a war.
Maybe the momentum shifted for us; the PP worked, it was the ducks who dumped and chased, we shut them down. It all started with the Bouchard goal, on a Gretzky-like assist from Boogaard. We continued to hit, and will have to, and we continue to push the envelope as far as physicality goes. How much can we take, and more importantly, how much more can we give?
As the series continues on, the explosive innuendo gains and gains with every hit, jab to the face, shove, fight, and altercation almost to a point where I am feeling like I am about to bungee jump; you are excited to see what is going to happen, that sort of anxious/nervous feeling that also leaves you scared to a degree. Brent Burns fought again, Derek Boogaard is starting to see plenty of ice time, even little Petteri Nummelin is leaning into the opposition. Stephane Veillieux is emerging as a playoff guy, who is excelling in this sort of smash hockey style of hockey. He saw alot of ice time tonight, in all situations.
The status of Kim Johnsson is a question, not so much from a blatant cheap shot from the soon-to-be suspended Brad May, but I saw him favor a knee a couple times during the game. A knee injury would essentially neuter the puck moving defenseman.
But finally, finally, our big guns scored; a roll call of the who's who here. Bouchard, Gaborik, Rolston, Parrish, Skou.....oh ya, I forgot Radio was in the crea.....slot. Parrish's deflection was just sickening, just effortless. The raucous crowd then reached deafening levels with the Burns kerfuffle soon afterwards. 19,000 people chanting "bullshit" (the "fertilizer chant", as Mike Greenlay coined it; he also repeatedly and rightedly so labeled the officiating "pathetic"), and "boogaard", which is like a giant middle finger to all the anti-fighting zealots. Really this whole series flies into the face of those, and it still has the makings of being an epic series. Maybe not a series per say- this first round could end up being a war.
Maybe the momentum shifted for us; the PP worked, it was the ducks who dumped and chased, we shut them down. It all started with the Bouchard goal, on a Gretzky-like assist from Boogaard. We continued to hit, and will have to, and we continue to push the envelope as far as physicality goes. How much can we take, and more importantly, how much more can we give?
Bowling for....national titles?
I saw some of this on Sunday, and am basically watching the rerun of the NCAA Women's Bowling Title Game for 2007 on ESPNU.
They have NCAA bowling? How come nobody told me about this when I was trying to pick a college to eventually drop out of?!? I got munsoned. What really impresses me are these girls, and they way they handle 15 pound balls.
I should find out which lanes they hang out at.
They have NCAA bowling? How come nobody told me about this when I was trying to pick a college to eventually drop out of?!? I got munsoned. What really impresses me are these girls, and they way they handle 15 pound balls.
I should find out which lanes they hang out at.
Been a long time since I left you, without a dope blog to get hep to
Sorry for the lack of active nonsense, but I went on vacation. Actually it was more like a re-creation of "Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas"; nothing but excessive drinking, partying, and golf. Lucky for the residents of the Lake of the Ozarks, we were essentially confined to the condo and either of the two golf courses. Its a beautiful area, but it is a straight up resort town, meaning there is only life there between Memorial and Labor Day. No nudie bars, very few bars that were open period (granted it was sunday), very little action overall. And since Central Missouri is such a hockey hot bed, my viewing of game 3 was limited to score updates and periodic peeks of the game during breaks of the Pens/Sens game. I guess I didn't miss much, eh? Needless to say, I do not advocate the practice of playing 18 holes, and then driving 9 hours back home. Although we did eat at the "Dickie Doo BBQ" in lovely Sedalia, MO, and the food was impeccable. The perfect meal for a group of guys who did nothing but drink shitty beer and eat junk food all weekend.
Obviously the highlight so far in this downtrodden series is Brent Burns throwing the dukes against Chris Kunitz. It was great, and the smile on Burns' face afterwards said it all. Hell, I'd drop the gloves too if the person I was tied up with dare grab my flowing mane. For me, its always a personal thrill when my brother calls me about a play in the hockey game that gets him all gassed up; Burns' fight brings him up on the Local Cult Icon totem pole in my opinion.
Since I have very little input on what I didn't see this weekend, I can certainly tell you that I played some truly uninspiring, awful, and futile golf. I fancy myself decent, I'm consistently in the low to mid 80's, and occasionally find myself in the 70's. To make a long story longer....I didn't play like that. I almost missed the ball a number of times, and lucky for me, Mr. Using a Machete to hack through the Amazonian Jungle-Swing, many of the par 3's had forced carries over various ponds and fingers of the lake. Requiring long irons. So needless to say, I burned right through the complementary sleeve of balls in no time. It was truly terrible golf, and thank god I wasn't the only one.
Hell, at one point during the second 18 of the day (!), a few of us simply threw in the white flag and just took to drinking beer and trying to spin each others cart out like some sort of neutered police chase. Not to mention the fucking hills...there was nary a flat spot on the golf course, one so wet that it was cartpath only; that it was a cinch that I was grabbing another ball, a couple clubs, a search light, and some road flares as I go trouncing through the fairway, through the rough, and into the wilderness looking for a Titleist that I had conveniently blocked way out to the right. I should at some point today check myself for ticks, considering the amount of terrain I covered this weekend. My guess is that us hackers weighed more than we did when we left.
I guess the question of the day yesterday was "Are we gonna be sober enough to play another 18?"
Barely.
And perhaps my most favorite quip of the weekend-
"I'm saying fuck, which means I am getting drunk. I always say fuck when I am drunk."
That was at 1:15 in the afternoon during the first 18.
Obviously the highlight so far in this downtrodden series is Brent Burns throwing the dukes against Chris Kunitz. It was great, and the smile on Burns' face afterwards said it all. Hell, I'd drop the gloves too if the person I was tied up with dare grab my flowing mane. For me, its always a personal thrill when my brother calls me about a play in the hockey game that gets him all gassed up; Burns' fight brings him up on the Local Cult Icon totem pole in my opinion.
Since I have very little input on what I didn't see this weekend, I can certainly tell you that I played some truly uninspiring, awful, and futile golf. I fancy myself decent, I'm consistently in the low to mid 80's, and occasionally find myself in the 70's. To make a long story longer....I didn't play like that. I almost missed the ball a number of times, and lucky for me, Mr. Using a Machete to hack through the Amazonian Jungle-Swing, many of the par 3's had forced carries over various ponds and fingers of the lake. Requiring long irons. So needless to say, I burned right through the complementary sleeve of balls in no time. It was truly terrible golf, and thank god I wasn't the only one.
Hell, at one point during the second 18 of the day (!), a few of us simply threw in the white flag and just took to drinking beer and trying to spin each others cart out like some sort of neutered police chase. Not to mention the fucking hills...there was nary a flat spot on the golf course, one so wet that it was cartpath only; that it was a cinch that I was grabbing another ball, a couple clubs, a search light, and some road flares as I go trouncing through the fairway, through the rough, and into the wilderness looking for a Titleist that I had conveniently blocked way out to the right. I should at some point today check myself for ticks, considering the amount of terrain I covered this weekend. My guess is that us hackers weighed more than we did when we left.
I guess the question of the day yesterday was "Are we gonna be sober enough to play another 18?"
Barely.
And perhaps my most favorite quip of the weekend-
"I'm saying fuck, which means I am getting drunk. I always say fuck when I am drunk."
That was at 1:15 in the afternoon during the first 18.
Thursday, April 12, 2007
DECLARE GUERRE NUCLEAIRE!!!!
Jean Grey, Xenia Onatopp, the hot chick from other movies....Famke Janssen. Goddamn.
Rama Lama Fa Fa Fa
In a game that shouldn't ever have been close, Our Twins triumphed over the perpetually lowly Devil Rays. Reigning MVP Justin Morneau hit another opposite field home run, of the walk off ilk, barely over the wall in left field. Carlos Silva pitched 6 and 2/3 strong innings, surprising myself and others, since the general sentiment with regards to Silva's outings, which are kin to Russian Roulette.
Goddammit, writer's block is a bitch.
Goddammit, writer's block is a bitch.
Wednesday, April 11, 2007
Bud Light Fueled Knee Jerk Reactions
Twas a tough one to lose, a late goal by a mountain of a man, Dustin Penner, sealed the fate (I have to stop because I am going to note that my dog just dragged his ass across the length of my living room floor, complete with a giant red erection; he must be a closet Anaheim fan) for our beloved Wild. While there were some positives, the bottom line of the entire series is that we (and I say we because I feel that the true fans, the hardcore, the thru the thick-and-thin fans, will always refer to the team as we) have to crack down on turnovers- Anaheim's transition game was very good; maybe it really wasn't because I haven't really watched the Ducks play since late October, but the point is that there were too many odd man rushes and scoring opportunities that were created off of a Minnesota turnover, and we should be grateful as shit that Nik Backstrom was able to keep us in the game. There were too many mistakes on our part.
We did have our chances, we knocked the post a few times and had some nice shots. Anaheim's checking line began to just kill us around the middle point of the 2nd, and all throughout the 3rd, forcing the issue of puck movement, which in turn led to said scoring chances.
This sort of thing will not work when it comes to winning a playoff series.
on a side note, Ramon Ortiz was as solid as could be as we finally retained some of our dignity against the Yankees. He cruised along very nicely, striking A-Rod out twice, only allowing one run over the course of eight innings.
Bring on the Devil Rays, I want to see some stats get padded, baby.
We did have our chances, we knocked the post a few times and had some nice shots. Anaheim's checking line began to just kill us around the middle point of the 2nd, and all throughout the 3rd, forcing the issue of puck movement, which in turn led to said scoring chances.
This sort of thing will not work when it comes to winning a playoff series.
on a side note, Ramon Ortiz was as solid as could be as we finally retained some of our dignity against the Yankees. He cruised along very nicely, striking A-Rod out twice, only allowing one run over the course of eight innings.
Bring on the Devil Rays, I want to see some stats get padded, baby.
Parental Lotteries and a Playoff Preview
I guess you could say I am taken aback a bit by the game show atmosphere considering the release of news that one guy happens to be the father of Anna Nicole Smith's daughter, instead of another guy. I'm happy that the little girl doesn't have to fill up a tumbling bin of lottery balls to see who it is, but my god, there are people standing outside the court room cheering like its the victory parade for a super bowl champ. Do you think those people had to take sick days to go out and root for their potential dad candidate?
Tonight the Wild and Ducks finally clash, a late night bout starting at 9:30 our time. Better make sure your morning coffee is strong. The obvious issues are the tandem of Chris Pronger and Scott Niedermayer, two sure hall of famers, who one or the other should be the on the ice during the whole game. They are sure to be out there for the shifts of the Slovak + Walz line, and the Bouchard-White-Rolston unit, making the importance of rolling 4 lines a key to success. Here is where we need the Koivu line and the 4th line the play extremely well, forcing Ducks Coach Randy Carlysle's hand into using Pronger or Niedermayer during those shifts as well.
Here's to hoping that Anaheim's ice isn't complete shit, or groin shredding. October 20th was when Marian Gaborik went down with a groin injury that sidelined him for 34 games.
Anaheim is a tough and physical forechecking team, who are going to finish their checks, which means they are always going to be engaged, no matter the score. Again, the importance of the 3rd and 4th line bringing hits and energy is at a premium, not to mention our defense needs to play with some sandpaper to let the speedy finesse guys that they can't just waltz through the defensive zone. Nick Schultz, Kim Johnsson, Brent Burns, Keith Carney, and Marty Skoula are going to see alot of ice time this series. Brent Burns' emergence as an offensive weapon from the blueline can bring a new dimension to our attack, providing not only a slick, puck moving body with very good offensive instincts, but also a mobile guy who isn't afraid of hitting. Keith Carney's experience and leadership will be of the utmost importance, especially when paired with Mr. Burns.
Backstrom has big game experience in Finland, and it looks like Anaheim will be leaning towards Ilya Bryzgalov in net.
My keys to the series, which it go 6 or 7? the play of Mikko Koivu and Mark Parrish, hard working, physical guys who will and can score dirty and ugly goals. With Pronger and Niedermayer on the ice nearly the entire game, alot of play will be forced to the perimeter of the ice.
Wild in 6.
jinx.
Tonight the Wild and Ducks finally clash, a late night bout starting at 9:30 our time. Better make sure your morning coffee is strong. The obvious issues are the tandem of Chris Pronger and Scott Niedermayer, two sure hall of famers, who one or the other should be the on the ice during the whole game. They are sure to be out there for the shifts of the Slovak + Walz line, and the Bouchard-White-Rolston unit, making the importance of rolling 4 lines a key to success. Here is where we need the Koivu line and the 4th line the play extremely well, forcing Ducks Coach Randy Carlysle's hand into using Pronger or Niedermayer during those shifts as well.
Here's to hoping that Anaheim's ice isn't complete shit, or groin shredding. October 20th was when Marian Gaborik went down with a groin injury that sidelined him for 34 games.
Anaheim is a tough and physical forechecking team, who are going to finish their checks, which means they are always going to be engaged, no matter the score. Again, the importance of the 3rd and 4th line bringing hits and energy is at a premium, not to mention our defense needs to play with some sandpaper to let the speedy finesse guys that they can't just waltz through the defensive zone. Nick Schultz, Kim Johnsson, Brent Burns, Keith Carney, and Marty Skoula are going to see alot of ice time this series. Brent Burns' emergence as an offensive weapon from the blueline can bring a new dimension to our attack, providing not only a slick, puck moving body with very good offensive instincts, but also a mobile guy who isn't afraid of hitting. Keith Carney's experience and leadership will be of the utmost importance, especially when paired with Mr. Burns.
Backstrom has big game experience in Finland, and it looks like Anaheim will be leaning towards Ilya Bryzgalov in net.
My keys to the series, which it go 6 or 7? the play of Mikko Koivu and Mark Parrish, hard working, physical guys who will and can score dirty and ugly goals. With Pronger and Niedermayer on the ice nearly the entire game, alot of play will be forced to the perimeter of the ice.
Wild in 6.
jinx.
Tuesday, April 10, 2007
9 more innings of uninspired ball
The spirit of Brad Radke is alive and well in the Metrodome, as home runs continue to come off the bats of the Bronx Bombers. Alex Rodriguez, who is going to have a monster year, more so than usual, sent a ill-conceived Boof Bonser fastball into the deep part of the left field stands. I stopped watching after a while to tune into "deadliest catch", which clues you into how well the Twins are playing right now- I'd rather watch a bunch of men risk their life catching giant underwater insects than the twin-igmatics suck something serious against New York. Granted the Yankess have a ridiculous lineup, but their rotation is kind of on the shoddy side...I'm not scared of them as a team, but at this point it doesn't matter, because we are making them look invincible. Piss poor base-running, terribly uninspired at-bats, awful fielding (jason kubel), giant pieces of meat across the heart of the plate...who wouldn't take advantage of that?
The great part is that finally FSN is showing something in high def. Unfortunately it is a giant coiled up piece of poop. A giant, nutty piece of excement, complete with a few pieces of corn with "TC" written all over it. AND IT STINKS.
Hey Gardy, put your foot in their asses. Put an end to this shit.
As expected the weather nazi's are forecasting certain doom, never ceasing to remind us of the harbinger of armageddon that will be the 1" of snow that will end up falling in the metro area. Winter Storm this, Snow Advisory that. The bottom line is that road temperatures are well about freezing, even during the night, and most of whatever falls isn't gonna stick, so the endless encouragement of panic and hysteria can stop.
The great part is that finally FSN is showing something in high def. Unfortunately it is a giant coiled up piece of poop. A giant, nutty piece of excement, complete with a few pieces of corn with "TC" written all over it. AND IT STINKS.
Hey Gardy, put your foot in their asses. Put an end to this shit.
As expected the weather nazi's are forecasting certain doom, never ceasing to remind us of the harbinger of armageddon that will be the 1" of snow that will end up falling in the metro area. Winter Storm this, Snow Advisory that. The bottom line is that road temperatures are well about freezing, even during the night, and most of whatever falls isn't gonna stick, so the endless encouragement of panic and hysteria can stop.
Tuesday Afternoon
April 10, and there is snow in the forecast.
So much for global warming, right?
Anyways, its the calm before the storm, as the first round of the playoffs start tomorrow. And I also guess there is an impending snow storm for the southern portion of the state. The Wild and Ducks meet tomorrow for the first of a possible seven, a rematch of the 2003 Western Conference Finals. There are few holdovers from that clash, the most notable being Jean-Sebastian Giguere, who absolutely stifled the Wild, allowing just one goal in 4 games, and eventually was awarded the Conn Smythe in a losing effort. Giguere has been away from the team to be with his son, who has a non-threatening medical condition, but still, the past concerning him and the Wild looms large.
It appears Adam Hall will be a scratch, which is a shame if you ask me; but Wyatt Smith has won the 4th line center spot, for the moment, with a two goal performance on Saturday.
I can't wait for this to start.
So much for global warming, right?
Anyways, its the calm before the storm, as the first round of the playoffs start tomorrow. And I also guess there is an impending snow storm for the southern portion of the state. The Wild and Ducks meet tomorrow for the first of a possible seven, a rematch of the 2003 Western Conference Finals. There are few holdovers from that clash, the most notable being Jean-Sebastian Giguere, who absolutely stifled the Wild, allowing just one goal in 4 games, and eventually was awarded the Conn Smythe in a losing effort. Giguere has been away from the team to be with his son, who has a non-threatening medical condition, but still, the past concerning him and the Wild looms large.
It appears Adam Hall will be a scratch, which is a shame if you ask me; but Wyatt Smith has won the 4th line center spot, for the moment, with a two goal performance on Saturday.
I can't wait for this to start.
Monday, April 9, 2007
The Saga of AJ Thelen
With Michigan State winning the NCAA Frozen Four, a surprise to many (although therein lies the beauty of a National Championship Tournament- the best team in the country doesn't always win.) In a gutty effort, the Spartans scored with 19 seconds left in the 3rd to take the lead, surviving the onslaught from a red-hot Boston College team, who had won 13 in a row coming into the title game...
...which leads me to AJ Thelen.
See this year would have been Thelen's senior year at East Lansing. However after a massive break through freshman year, where he racked up numerous honors. Only being 17, NCAA draft eligibility rules were altered so he could opt into the 2004 NHL draft, and the Savage, MN native was selected 12th overall by his homestate Minnesota Wild.
Truly a warming story, the Minnesota Kid is drafted by the Wild. Unfortunately, its not turned out to be all roses.
Thelen was dismissed by MSU Coach Rick Comley about halfway through his sophomore season, causing him to miss the 2nd half of the season and also the roster freeze for the Western Hockey League's Prince Albert Raiders, a junior team that had selected his rights in a bantam draft a few years earlier. I'm fortunate to know the Thelen family, so their side of the story wasn't well-publicized, just the report of the dismissal, and the rampant speculation and prognostication of Thelen's character. As I was told, and as history shows, Coach Comley has feuded with drafted players in the past, causing many underclassmen to leave the MSU program before graduation. So who was really in the wrong? We'll never know, and to be honest, at this point, its not relevant.
So last year Thelen played in the Canadian Wilderness, an american in a canadian hockey league known for its toughness. Thelen played well on a terrible team, putting up very respectable number for a team that couldn't score. A tremendous package of stature and skill, AJ's upside and potential is very high- but it all but seems he has been written off as a first round bust, a gaffe, a faux pas.
Wild fans are down on Thelen as a prospect, as many have expected him to step right into the lineup and play, much like Gaborik, Koivu, Bouchard, and Burns have- but it doesn't always work that way. Situations like the aforementioned 4 are an exception, not the norm. After PA's season ended, Thelen signed an Amateur Try-Out with the Houston Aeros, the primary farm team for Minnesota. He saw action in one game, but was sent more for an educational purpose; to observe the play at the next level, what it takes to be a professional hockey player, the everyday life of someone who gets paid to play the game (sounds like a great gig to me.) But many saw this as an indictment of his game and skill level, that he couldn't hack it in the American Hockey League, which is a rung lower than the NHL.
Through various contacts I have made, many feel the opposite. The scouting community notes his remarkable mobility for a kid that is 6'3" 215 pounds (7% body fat- I landscaped his parents house this last summer and he helped out...I'm a big guy myself, and he dwarfed me), his offensive acumen, and his burgeoning physical presence. As a scout I know said "he's far from a bust, its just that he is taking longer to develop than many initially thought."
But that isn't enough for Wild Nation, who unlike the organization, isn't treating Thelen with kid gloves. Its the nature of minnesota fandom, and I suppose like any other market- when there is a hometown kid playing for the hometown team, we want him to succeed, we want him/her to be the best, we want to be able to say "ya, he's from right here" because it is the ultimate to have someone from where you live play for the team you root for. The drawback is the expectations, sometimes irrational, and sometimes fandom turning on the person. Speculation is now rampant that the Wild won't even sign Thelen to a professional contract; Minnesota owns his rights until June 1, thanks to his being drafted out of the NCAA. Local sportswriters have prognosticated as such, some claiming that he was even draft bait during the period preceding the Trade Deadline. Hell, some have said that it is practically a done deal that when his season in the WHL ends, that we'll just let him go.
Let me backtrack for a second for background purposes- At the trade deadline in the "W", Thelen was traded to the Vancouver Giants, who are hosting the Memorial Cup, the crown jewel of the Canadian Hockey League. The Memorial Cup is where the champions of the Quebec league, the Ontario league, and the Western league, along with the host of the tourney vie for the championship in a preliminary round-robin setup, and then go from there. As customary for the host team, they often acquire many top-notch junior players to bolster their roster for the Cup, despite if they lose in their respective league's tournament. Thelen and the Giants are hosting this year, and their spot is secure. Thelen was among a number of big time transactions Vancouver made, and his stats are reflective of the depth role he has been in. So far in the WHL tourney, Thelen has 3 assists in 7 games, a nice +5, better numbers than some of those who ahead of him on the depth chart.
Many see this as Thelen's final chance to prove he deserves a contract. I for one, don't buy into any of it. I am putting aside my personal bias and my connection to he and his family, but I just don't believe that an organization, especially one committed to development and building from within such as the Wild, would just let a player like Thelen go. It just doesn't make any sense to take a guy like him, who was taken 12th overall, ahead of guys like Wojtek Wolski and Andrej Mezsaros (who have regular NHL roles). Why? In the first round of a draft, no matter the sport, you take the best player available, and there is something in Thelen that the Wild felt made him a better prospect than the aforementioned.
Many point to his less-than-stellar point totals as representative of his decline, but I respectfully disagree. I found this article, granted it is two years old, but I feel that is very telling of what the Wild want from and see in AJ Thelen;
http://www.nhl.com/futures/features/prospects_min041905.html
"the Wild will probably never look to Thelen for scoring, but rather to his big, mobile body for moving opponents away from the net and making sound decisions in his own end."
Maybe I'm right, more than likely I'm wrong (I jinx myself more often than not), but we'll see come June 1st.
...which leads me to AJ Thelen.
See this year would have been Thelen's senior year at East Lansing. However after a massive break through freshman year, where he racked up numerous honors. Only being 17, NCAA draft eligibility rules were altered so he could opt into the 2004 NHL draft, and the Savage, MN native was selected 12th overall by his homestate Minnesota Wild.
Truly a warming story, the Minnesota Kid is drafted by the Wild. Unfortunately, its not turned out to be all roses.
Thelen was dismissed by MSU Coach Rick Comley about halfway through his sophomore season, causing him to miss the 2nd half of the season and also the roster freeze for the Western Hockey League's Prince Albert Raiders, a junior team that had selected his rights in a bantam draft a few years earlier. I'm fortunate to know the Thelen family, so their side of the story wasn't well-publicized, just the report of the dismissal, and the rampant speculation and prognostication of Thelen's character. As I was told, and as history shows, Coach Comley has feuded with drafted players in the past, causing many underclassmen to leave the MSU program before graduation. So who was really in the wrong? We'll never know, and to be honest, at this point, its not relevant.
So last year Thelen played in the Canadian Wilderness, an american in a canadian hockey league known for its toughness. Thelen played well on a terrible team, putting up very respectable number for a team that couldn't score. A tremendous package of stature and skill, AJ's upside and potential is very high- but it all but seems he has been written off as a first round bust, a gaffe, a faux pas.
Wild fans are down on Thelen as a prospect, as many have expected him to step right into the lineup and play, much like Gaborik, Koivu, Bouchard, and Burns have- but it doesn't always work that way. Situations like the aforementioned 4 are an exception, not the norm. After PA's season ended, Thelen signed an Amateur Try-Out with the Houston Aeros, the primary farm team for Minnesota. He saw action in one game, but was sent more for an educational purpose; to observe the play at the next level, what it takes to be a professional hockey player, the everyday life of someone who gets paid to play the game (sounds like a great gig to me.) But many saw this as an indictment of his game and skill level, that he couldn't hack it in the American Hockey League, which is a rung lower than the NHL.
Through various contacts I have made, many feel the opposite. The scouting community notes his remarkable mobility for a kid that is 6'3" 215 pounds (7% body fat- I landscaped his parents house this last summer and he helped out...I'm a big guy myself, and he dwarfed me), his offensive acumen, and his burgeoning physical presence. As a scout I know said "he's far from a bust, its just that he is taking longer to develop than many initially thought."
But that isn't enough for Wild Nation, who unlike the organization, isn't treating Thelen with kid gloves. Its the nature of minnesota fandom, and I suppose like any other market- when there is a hometown kid playing for the hometown team, we want him to succeed, we want him/her to be the best, we want to be able to say "ya, he's from right here" because it is the ultimate to have someone from where you live play for the team you root for. The drawback is the expectations, sometimes irrational, and sometimes fandom turning on the person. Speculation is now rampant that the Wild won't even sign Thelen to a professional contract; Minnesota owns his rights until June 1, thanks to his being drafted out of the NCAA. Local sportswriters have prognosticated as such, some claiming that he was even draft bait during the period preceding the Trade Deadline. Hell, some have said that it is practically a done deal that when his season in the WHL ends, that we'll just let him go.
Let me backtrack for a second for background purposes- At the trade deadline in the "W", Thelen was traded to the Vancouver Giants, who are hosting the Memorial Cup, the crown jewel of the Canadian Hockey League. The Memorial Cup is where the champions of the Quebec league, the Ontario league, and the Western league, along with the host of the tourney vie for the championship in a preliminary round-robin setup, and then go from there. As customary for the host team, they often acquire many top-notch junior players to bolster their roster for the Cup, despite if they lose in their respective league's tournament. Thelen and the Giants are hosting this year, and their spot is secure. Thelen was among a number of big time transactions Vancouver made, and his stats are reflective of the depth role he has been in. So far in the WHL tourney, Thelen has 3 assists in 7 games, a nice +5, better numbers than some of those who ahead of him on the depth chart.
Many see this as Thelen's final chance to prove he deserves a contract. I for one, don't buy into any of it. I am putting aside my personal bias and my connection to he and his family, but I just don't believe that an organization, especially one committed to development and building from within such as the Wild, would just let a player like Thelen go. It just doesn't make any sense to take a guy like him, who was taken 12th overall, ahead of guys like Wojtek Wolski and Andrej Mezsaros (who have regular NHL roles). Why? In the first round of a draft, no matter the sport, you take the best player available, and there is something in Thelen that the Wild felt made him a better prospect than the aforementioned.
Many point to his less-than-stellar point totals as representative of his decline, but I respectfully disagree. I found this article, granted it is two years old, but I feel that is very telling of what the Wild want from and see in AJ Thelen;
http://www.nhl.com/futures/features/prospects_min041905.html
"the Wild will probably never look to Thelen for scoring, but rather to his big, mobile body for moving opponents away from the net and making sound decisions in his own end."
Maybe I'm right, more than likely I'm wrong (I jinx myself more often than not), but we'll see come June 1st.
Thursday, April 5, 2007
Cheap Thrills
and for those playing at home, the answer to the titles is "What are the Edmonton Oilers, circa 2007."
The Oilers fucking suck something serious. My god, its just straight up ineptitude, almost Minnesota Timberwolves like. How can a team, with a good amount of talent, lose 17 out of their past 18 games? You can't tell me the impact of Ryan Smyth was that monstrous. No fucking way. I knew Chris Pronger's departure would hurt, but jesus...the Oilers have to be tanking on purpose. There can't be any other explanantion. I guess its pretty damn bad when Derek Boogaard is out taking a regular shift.
On that note...
Another 3-0 shutout for the good guys. We kicked so much ass, even Boogie took regular shifts. It was a better effort than Tuesday, with Niklas Backstrom making 25 saves for a stat padding back-to-back shutout streak. For the most part it looked like the guys were out to get Mark Parrish and Pierre-Marc Bouchard to the 20 goal plateau; Parrish got #19 in the first (another Boogaard screen), and was subsequently fed the puck the rest of the game while PMB was also given the same, but was dicked by the long shaft of the post gods. Twice. Nearly identical shots from the faceoff dot hit the crossbar. I'd imagine "get 20 for PMB and Parrish" is the war cry when St. Louis is in town Saturday. Adam Hall did his best to play a role in the playoffs, I thought he played very well. It would be a crime if I didn't mention Keith Carney scoring his 4th goal, a positively Bobby Orr-like effort, picking a pocket at his blueline, dashing down ice, looking off his winger, and burying the motherfucker top shelf. There is something about watching a 37 year old man go end to end and scoring that is oddly satisfying.
Boogaard does look pretty good out there...I'm not saying Gretzky-like, but he does have pretty good positioning, and provides one hell of a screen. As the playoff picture shapes up, more and more it looks like we will be butting heads with the Ducks, who are tough team- perhaps this is a crash course for young Mr. Boogaard.
Maybe Anaheim should rethink their strategy. Boogie eats Ducks.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rfl75-WaV6A
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ck-cCk_HBNA
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QvUWXhS-0c4
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CZrnc7FLdEo
The Oilers fucking suck something serious. My god, its just straight up ineptitude, almost Minnesota Timberwolves like. How can a team, with a good amount of talent, lose 17 out of their past 18 games? You can't tell me the impact of Ryan Smyth was that monstrous. No fucking way. I knew Chris Pronger's departure would hurt, but jesus...the Oilers have to be tanking on purpose. There can't be any other explanantion. I guess its pretty damn bad when Derek Boogaard is out taking a regular shift.
On that note...
Another 3-0 shutout for the good guys. We kicked so much ass, even Boogie took regular shifts. It was a better effort than Tuesday, with Niklas Backstrom making 25 saves for a stat padding back-to-back shutout streak. For the most part it looked like the guys were out to get Mark Parrish and Pierre-Marc Bouchard to the 20 goal plateau; Parrish got #19 in the first (another Boogaard screen), and was subsequently fed the puck the rest of the game while PMB was also given the same, but was dicked by the long shaft of the post gods. Twice. Nearly identical shots from the faceoff dot hit the crossbar. I'd imagine "get 20 for PMB and Parrish" is the war cry when St. Louis is in town Saturday. Adam Hall did his best to play a role in the playoffs, I thought he played very well. It would be a crime if I didn't mention Keith Carney scoring his 4th goal, a positively Bobby Orr-like effort, picking a pocket at his blueline, dashing down ice, looking off his winger, and burying the motherfucker top shelf. There is something about watching a 37 year old man go end to end and scoring that is oddly satisfying.
Boogaard does look pretty good out there...I'm not saying Gretzky-like, but he does have pretty good positioning, and provides one hell of a screen. As the playoff picture shapes up, more and more it looks like we will be butting heads with the Ducks, who are tough team- perhaps this is a crash course for young Mr. Boogaard.
Maybe Anaheim should rethink their strategy. Boogie eats Ducks.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rfl75-WaV6A
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ck-cCk_HBNA
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QvUWXhS-0c4
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CZrnc7FLdEo
Building Steam with a Grain of Salt
Jesus Christ ESPN, let's calm down about Daisuke Matzusaka (or something to that extent). He has started one game, ONE GAME, this season, and he is all over Sportscenter. All freaking over it. Now maybe I should assess my current situation if I noticed that over the course of the past few hours on ESPN programming that they are pimping the shit out of Daisuke highlights, but come on. For the "30 at 30" spiel on ESPN2, which was playing the Nodak/BC game (BC won, suck a big one Sioux fans. I hope Oshie and Toews leave.) the highlights were of Tiger Woods, looking dapper in a black sweater and pink golf shirt combo (its sad that I know the color of shirt matches the blooming azaleas around the course by the color), shooting a colossal 73. Nevermind the leaders, who shot 69...
The other highlight was of Dice-K's start (I told you I'm into brevity). It was against the freaking Royals. Carlos Silva looks like Sandy frickin Koufax against the Royals. As my boy said, "GRAIN OF SALT."
Would Dice-K get this much attention if he played elsewhere? Perhaps Milwaukee? Minnesota? Tampa Bay?
Is the east coast media getting an Ichiro hard-on, where there is a similar story within their market?
Is this more of an experiment, a cultural one, where you throw someone from a different place with a different culture, under the microscope of one of MLB's storied franchises (all the ups and downs, the hard luck and destiny-fucking David of them all), and its rabid fanbase, to see what happens?
Or is this a testament to the game of baseball, and its influence and ability to make people around the globe work on their bunts, pop flies, and changeups whether they are in Havana, Osaka, Caracas, or St. Paul?
whatever it is, I want to see something else. Sportscenter has become the FM dial of TV, its tough to find a station that isn't owned by Clear Channel; the playlists are monotonous. But it has you hooked, because all it takes is one little highlight or mention, or if you are playing along, a song or an artist, for you to continue to stay tuned.
The other highlight was of Dice-K's start (I told you I'm into brevity). It was against the freaking Royals. Carlos Silva looks like Sandy frickin Koufax against the Royals. As my boy said, "GRAIN OF SALT."
Would Dice-K get this much attention if he played elsewhere? Perhaps Milwaukee? Minnesota? Tampa Bay?
Is the east coast media getting an Ichiro hard-on, where there is a similar story within their market?
Is this more of an experiment, a cultural one, where you throw someone from a different place with a different culture, under the microscope of one of MLB's storied franchises (all the ups and downs, the hard luck and destiny-fucking David of them all), and its rabid fanbase, to see what happens?
Or is this a testament to the game of baseball, and its influence and ability to make people around the globe work on their bunts, pop flies, and changeups whether they are in Havana, Osaka, Caracas, or St. Paul?
whatever it is, I want to see something else. Sportscenter has become the FM dial of TV, its tough to find a station that isn't owned by Clear Channel; the playlists are monotonous. But it has you hooked, because all it takes is one little highlight or mention, or if you are playing along, a song or an artist, for you to continue to stay tuned.
When porn makes you chuckle...
...when you flip thru the channels, and on the Pleasure Channel starting at 11 pm is the cinematic feature "Tight Bung".
go ahead and say that out loud.
go ahead and say that out loud.
DECLARE GUERRE NUCLEAIRE!!!! (early edition)
I'll be on a flight to Columbus early tomorrow morning, so here is the weekly bombshell...As per Ms. Nicole Capra. I give you Carmen Electra....
Thursday night's all right for fighting
Just some nuggets:
-Adam Hall is gonna be the 4th line center tonight, which says something about Wyatt Smith and Dom Moore and how they are playing. This also means Boogaard's playoff audition will be tonight. Lemaire wants to make sure the best players are playing come playoff time.
-Matt Foy and Shawn Belle are the first of a couple Taxi Squad guys, guys who are on the expanded playoff roster, but can't practice with the big club. They have separate practices.
-Tonight could mark the debut of Robbie Schremp, Edmonton's 1st rounder from 2003. The kid has marvelous offensi
-Adam Hall is gonna be the 4th line center tonight, which says something about Wyatt Smith and Dom Moore and how they are playing. This also means Boogaard's playoff audition will be tonight. Lemaire wants to make sure the best players are playing come playoff time.
-Matt Foy and Shawn Belle are the first of a couple Taxi Squad guys, guys who are on the expanded playoff roster, but can't practice with the big club. They have separate practices.
-Tonight could mark the debut of Robbie Schremp, Edmonton's 1st rounder from 2003. The kid has marvelous offensi