http://sports.espn.go.com/espn/page2/story?page=simmons/070625
He gives our sweater dap...
Monday, June 25, 2007
Post-Draft Mayhem...
...I'm lovin the Colton Gillies pick at 16th overall; While it has become blatantly obvious how the Ducks affected us in the playoffs and the subsequent quest to be like them ala the grit, size, and physicality, we also got some players with some skill.
Gillies, who is one of the best skaters in the draft, especially for a 18 year kid who is 6'4", will be an NHLer- his skating and size all but slots him onto the 3rd or 4th line as a checker at the least. But the intriguing aspect of Colton Gillies is the fact that his greatest upside could very well be on the blueline; sound familiar?
Earlier this year (or late in the season?) Gillies filled in on the blueline for the Saskatoon Blades due to injuries. On a side note, Gillies was expected to be a top 5 pick last fall; obviously the package of a big kid who can skate makes teams salivate, but as the season went on the lack of production really turned alot of scouts and teams off, which in turn caused his stock to drop whilst other players rose. Like I said, he will play in the NHL, but where will he go? Anywho, Gillies performed magnificently during his stint on defense, causing many scouts to turn back to him and give him praise for his versatility.
http://mfile.akamai.com/16532/wmv/nhl.download.akamai.com/16532/wm.nhl.na-central/comp/0607/draft07/colton_gillies_700.asx
And yes, I am talking about the similarity between him and Brent Burns. It is quite possible that Minnesota has hit another home run with a so-called safe pick. Just imagine not one, but two 6'4" 210 pound fantastic skating defensemen on our blueline...
-The day two picks seem pretty good from a distance, although I will admit I am not too familiar with them. Cody Almond (Chief Scout Tommy Thompson's "pet project") looks to have some very good upside as a scorer, and Harri Ilvonen, a finnish defensemen, looks to have some offensive flair. The theme of the draft overall were big guys who can skate.
-Manny couldn't be moved, because the fact he is a moody cunt; that scared Boston away, although I guess there is a chance he could still go there. And in a surprising turn of events, Phoenix offered Nick Boynton, and to my chagrin, the Wild didn't want him. Ha, go figure.
-Adam Hall won't be back, and when you look back at the Hall for Pascal Dupuis trade, I guess they just wanted to get rid of Dupuis. And so did the rest of Wild Nation.
-Now that Hall is gone, Danny Irmen is going to get a loooooooooooong look...here is a Pioneer Press Article on him:
http://www.twincities.com/wild/ci_6207442?nclick_check=1
-Irmen's roommate at Training Camp, James Sheppard, may have worked himself into a position where he's offered a contract, and based on a good camp, a spot on the roster opening night. A natural center, he would provide a cheaper alternative to anything on the market, and his nhl-ready frame helps his cause. You guys are gonna love this kid. And with Wyatt Smith and Todd White looking to be gone, why not another piece of the youth movement?
Gillies, who is one of the best skaters in the draft, especially for a 18 year kid who is 6'4", will be an NHLer- his skating and size all but slots him onto the 3rd or 4th line as a checker at the least. But the intriguing aspect of Colton Gillies is the fact that his greatest upside could very well be on the blueline; sound familiar?
Earlier this year (or late in the season?) Gillies filled in on the blueline for the Saskatoon Blades due to injuries. On a side note, Gillies was expected to be a top 5 pick last fall; obviously the package of a big kid who can skate makes teams salivate, but as the season went on the lack of production really turned alot of scouts and teams off, which in turn caused his stock to drop whilst other players rose. Like I said, he will play in the NHL, but where will he go? Anywho, Gillies performed magnificently during his stint on defense, causing many scouts to turn back to him and give him praise for his versatility.
http://mfile.akamai.com/16532/wmv/nhl.download.akamai.com/16532/wm.nhl.na-central/comp/0607/draft07/colton_gillies_700.asx
And yes, I am talking about the similarity between him and Brent Burns. It is quite possible that Minnesota has hit another home run with a so-called safe pick. Just imagine not one, but two 6'4" 210 pound fantastic skating defensemen on our blueline...
-The day two picks seem pretty good from a distance, although I will admit I am not too familiar with them. Cody Almond (Chief Scout Tommy Thompson's "pet project") looks to have some very good upside as a scorer, and Harri Ilvonen, a finnish defensemen, looks to have some offensive flair. The theme of the draft overall were big guys who can skate.
-Manny couldn't be moved, because the fact he is a moody cunt; that scared Boston away, although I guess there is a chance he could still go there. And in a surprising turn of events, Phoenix offered Nick Boynton, and to my chagrin, the Wild didn't want him. Ha, go figure.
-Adam Hall won't be back, and when you look back at the Hall for Pascal Dupuis trade, I guess they just wanted to get rid of Dupuis. And so did the rest of Wild Nation.
-Now that Hall is gone, Danny Irmen is going to get a loooooooooooong look...here is a Pioneer Press Article on him:
http://www.twincities.com/wild/ci_6207442?nclick_check=1
-Irmen's roommate at Training Camp, James Sheppard, may have worked himself into a position where he's offered a contract, and based on a good camp, a spot on the roster opening night. A natural center, he would provide a cheaper alternative to anything on the market, and his nhl-ready frame helps his cause. You guys are gonna love this kid. And with Wyatt Smith and Todd White looking to be gone, why not another piece of the youth movement?
Friday, June 22, 2007
Thursday, June 21, 2007
Shippin up to Boston
http://www.startribune.com/blogs/wildblog/?p=191#comments
http://www.hockeybuzz.com/blog.php?post_id=8130
According to Mike Russo of the Strib and Eklund at Hockeybuzz, Manny Fernandez looks to be heading to Boston, with us and Boston swapping picks (#19 to Boston, #8 to us) and a $2-3 million dollar player heading our way. Apparently Boston Globe writer Kevin Dupont said the deal is gaining steam.
Who that player is I don't know...Ideally it would be Andrew Alberts (who recently signed a multi-year deal), a hulking beast with shutdown potential, and oh ya, a Minnesota Kid who played at Benilde.
The 8th pick would be huge, I have a feeling the Wild brass has a huge hard-on for Cretin Derham Hall's Ryan McDonagh, who could be around then.
Either late tonight or tomorrow morning for the announcement.
http://www.hockeybuzz.com/blog.php?post_id=8130
According to Mike Russo of the Strib and Eklund at Hockeybuzz, Manny Fernandez looks to be heading to Boston, with us and Boston swapping picks (#19 to Boston, #8 to us) and a $2-3 million dollar player heading our way. Apparently Boston Globe writer Kevin Dupont said the deal is gaining steam.
Who that player is I don't know...Ideally it would be Andrew Alberts (who recently signed a multi-year deal), a hulking beast with shutdown potential, and oh ya, a Minnesota Kid who played at Benilde.
The 8th pick would be huge, I have a feeling the Wild brass has a huge hard-on for Cretin Derham Hall's Ryan McDonagh, who could be around then.
Either late tonight or tomorrow morning for the announcement.
Radio in a Riot
http://www.startribune.com/wild/story/1254103.html
That's right. Branko doesn't like neo-nazis. In fact, he took on all ten to protect a guy he doesn't know. That's what you want out of your 4th liner. According to some slovakian news sources, Radio saw the guy get attacked in the town square of Trencin, came to the aid of the victim by starting to destroy the skinheads (one website said a witness saw one of the skinheads record Branko beating the piss out of another skinhead on his phone) for around 20 or seconds before Marcel Hossa came to help. C'mon youtube!
Gully.
That's right. Branko doesn't like neo-nazis. In fact, he took on all ten to protect a guy he doesn't know. That's what you want out of your 4th liner. According to some slovakian news sources, Radio saw the guy get attacked in the town square of Trencin, came to the aid of the victim by starting to destroy the skinheads (one website said a witness saw one of the skinheads record Branko beating the piss out of another skinhead on his phone) for around 20 or seconds before Marcel Hossa came to help. C'mon youtube!
Gully.
All of Minnesota should have a smile on their face because of this...
...especially you Kim Johnsson. This is Brad May, noted bitch, throwing out the ceremonial first pitch at a recent Angels game....with the barn door open. Keep the mouse in the house Bradley, this is a PG production.
Auto Accidents can't phase me...
...but it can give me some time off and percocet. And, for my loyal 9 readers, some actual shit to read during the work week.
Your Manny Fernandez Trade Rumor of the day...
-Based on the recent rumor blogs by Eklund at Hockeybuzz (take it with a grain of salt kids), The Phoenix Coyotes are supposedly shopping defenseman Nick Boynton (a mancrush of mine for our favorite squad), and are trying to make a deal for one of two Goalies: Tomas Vokoun of Nashville, and Manny Fernandez of Minnesota. Put two and two together, and maybe sprinkle in a prospect from both sides, and we have ourselves a deal.
- On a side note, the Wild blogger at Hockeybuzz.com sucks ass. And yes, I did ask about getting that gig.
Your Manny Fernandez Trade Rumor of the day...
-Based on the recent rumor blogs by Eklund at Hockeybuzz (take it with a grain of salt kids), The Phoenix Coyotes are supposedly shopping defenseman Nick Boynton (a mancrush of mine for our favorite squad), and are trying to make a deal for one of two Goalies: Tomas Vokoun of Nashville, and Manny Fernandez of Minnesota. Put two and two together, and maybe sprinkle in a prospect from both sides, and we have ourselves a deal.
- On a side note, the Wild blogger at Hockeybuzz.com sucks ass. And yes, I did ask about getting that gig.
Tuesday, June 19, 2007
Sunday, June 17, 2007
Doug Risebrough and Terry Ryan bedfellows?
http://www.am1500.com/categoryfolders/Stories/S115058.shtml
In the never ending quest for "more bang for the buck", again Wild nation is treated to the signing of an anonymous European in the offseason. Andre Lakos was a former 3rd round pick by the Devils, didn't amount to shit in the minors, and appears to have found some game in the hockey hot bed of Austria. While he stands at 6'6" and is 230 pounds, I'm sure he'll be an imposing figure in Houston, where he'll probably end up. Yes, we hit a home run with Nik Backstrom, but everything I've heard about the guy hasn't been to promising.
"AHL depth move. If he plays a minute for the Wild, something went wrong."
Get ready, the Andre Lakos era has begun.
In the never ending quest for "more bang for the buck", again Wild nation is treated to the signing of an anonymous European in the offseason. Andre Lakos was a former 3rd round pick by the Devils, didn't amount to shit in the minors, and appears to have found some game in the hockey hot bed of Austria. While he stands at 6'6" and is 230 pounds, I'm sure he'll be an imposing figure in Houston, where he'll probably end up. Yes, we hit a home run with Nik Backstrom, but everything I've heard about the guy hasn't been to promising.
"AHL depth move. If he plays a minute for the Wild, something went wrong."
Get ready, the Andre Lakos era has begun.
Saturday, June 16, 2007
In Timberwolves news...
...The Wolves traded guard and noted locker room cancer Mike Ames (he ain't got a J) and Justin Reed (who?) to Houston for Juwan Howard (he still plays?).
While James was a pain in the ass, and Kevin McHale deserves a kick in the groin for bringing in a guy who was allowed to commit highway robbery (James got paid $6 million dollars last year), this move was equivolent to giving a skin cancer patient sunscreen.
The damage was done long ago, no SPF 45 is gonna help right now.
Watch out folks, this is supposedly the first of many earth shattering moves the Wolves have up their sleeve!
Next up?
Troy Hudson straight up for some asphalt, so at least we can fix some fucking roads in the metro area.
While James was a pain in the ass, and Kevin McHale deserves a kick in the groin for bringing in a guy who was allowed to commit highway robbery (James got paid $6 million dollars last year), this move was equivolent to giving a skin cancer patient sunscreen.
The damage was done long ago, no SPF 45 is gonna help right now.
Watch out folks, this is supposedly the first of many earth shattering moves the Wolves have up their sleeve!
Next up?
Troy Hudson straight up for some asphalt, so at least we can fix some fucking roads in the metro area.
Shadowboxing
In one of the weakest "brawls" of all time, Derrek Lee and Chris Young "exchanged blows" today at Wrigley Field. Lee, who claimed that Young "was endangering his health" when he got plunked, confronted Young and took a wild swing, which was countered (for the lack of a better term) with a wild swing from Young. Benches cleared, Lee and Young ejected, along with Padres ace Jake Peavy and Cubs hitting coach Gerald Perry.
Lee, who obviously had never really seen Randy Johnson pitch to John Kruk in an all-star game years ago, apparently felt so endangered he had to fight Young. Chris Young is 6'10". Chances are that Young's control isn't pinpoint, and pitches get away from time to time. It happens with every pitcher, but for some reason its more notable with big guys...Torii Hunter once said that Daniel Cabrera (6'8") is the scariest guy he's ever faced because of the control, or lack there of. it just so happens that Cabrera's a big guy, so it gets amplified a bit. Young himself said he never intended to plunk Lee, that his fastball got away from him when he tried to pitch inside.
Both players are looking at a suspension of 3-5 games...but if you ask me, it should be more. Jesus, if you are going to fight someone, fucking make sure you hit them. None of this sissy pansy slapboxing bullshit is tolerated, if you're gonna hit someone, freaking hit them. Both of these guys ( a combined 13'3" in height) whiffed terribly, and now the media is gonna make a big freaking deal out of nothing, a tall guy who got wigged out because a taller guy's fastball got away from him. The tall guy talks shit, swings, misses, the taller guys swings, misses, the benches clear, everyone gets riled up over nothing.
Lee, who obviously had never really seen Randy Johnson pitch to John Kruk in an all-star game years ago, apparently felt so endangered he had to fight Young. Chris Young is 6'10". Chances are that Young's control isn't pinpoint, and pitches get away from time to time. It happens with every pitcher, but for some reason its more notable with big guys...Torii Hunter once said that Daniel Cabrera (6'8") is the scariest guy he's ever faced because of the control, or lack there of. it just so happens that Cabrera's a big guy, so it gets amplified a bit. Young himself said he never intended to plunk Lee, that his fastball got away from him when he tried to pitch inside.
Both players are looking at a suspension of 3-5 games...but if you ask me, it should be more. Jesus, if you are going to fight someone, fucking make sure you hit them. None of this sissy pansy slapboxing bullshit is tolerated, if you're gonna hit someone, freaking hit them. Both of these guys ( a combined 13'3" in height) whiffed terribly, and now the media is gonna make a big freaking deal out of nothing, a tall guy who got wigged out because a taller guy's fastball got away from him. The tall guy talks shit, swings, misses, the taller guys swings, misses, the benches clear, everyone gets riled up over nothing.
Whatever will we do?
http://www.startribune.com/twins/story/1249615.html
Yes true believers, Josh Rabe will be done for the 2007 season after having surgery to repair a torn labrum. Rabe, or "Don't fuck anything up" to some of us fans, batted a red hot .194 in his short stint with the big club, and his cricket-like throws from left field kept many runners from thinking about trying to advance on his watch.
So if Jason Kubel's knee(s) give out (again), and Lew Ford gets a cramp from playing too much Halo, Rondell White's other calf doesn't explode from the joyous skipping and frolicking of hanging out on the disabled list and getting paid 2 million dollars, and after Ron Gardenhire had decided Jason Tyner was still better suited for pinch running, we'll have to look elsewhere because Josh Rabe is hurt.
We are doomed.
Yes true believers, Josh Rabe will be done for the 2007 season after having surgery to repair a torn labrum. Rabe, or "Don't fuck anything up" to some of us fans, batted a red hot .194 in his short stint with the big club, and his cricket-like throws from left field kept many runners from thinking about trying to advance on his watch.
So if Jason Kubel's knee(s) give out (again), and Lew Ford gets a cramp from playing too much Halo, Rondell White's other calf doesn't explode from the joyous skipping and frolicking of hanging out on the disabled list and getting paid 2 million dollars, and after Ron Gardenhire had decided Jason Tyner was still better suited for pinch running, we'll have to look elsewhere because Josh Rabe is hurt.
We are doomed.
A walk down memory lane...
...Anyone else find the convenience in all the World Series hoopla surrounding Atlanta's series at the Metrodome help cover up the fact that the Twins had sucked serious ass the previous 9 games? Thank god we swept the bravos, otherwise the nostalgia would have been ten-fold. "Well, at least we beat them in '91...now here's Brian Harper!" Maybe we should start waxing nostalgic about how we won games against the teams we play in every series..."remember when we took 2 of 3 in Milwaukee a few weeks ago..."
- Who else winced as soon as you saw Scott Baker throw that piece of meat to Geoff Jenkins? No sooner did I tell my dad that "Jenkins fucking kills us every time" did he hit that moon shot. Damn you Geoff Jenkins. Go To Your Home.
- Bert Blyleven Statue Night....jinx. Everybody drinks in retrospect.
- And according to Ron Gardenhire in an article a few days ago in the Strib, "Lew Ford is a better outfielder than Tyner, so I played Lew when Kubel was hurt." I'd like to hear the reasoning for that, because after all, I am your "Jason Tyner for Everyday Play" Flag-bearer. To Kubel's rather mediocre-fielding credit, he is starting to sting the ball pretty good. He'd make a good DH.
- Today I am playing golf, and since I've played like a brain dead chimp with seizures so far this year, I am sure it won't be pretty. But when its said and done, I'll be able to take comfort in the fact that I'll be able to watch the world's best players look silly and just as incompetent during the US Open at Oakmont Country Club. Sweet Sweet Solace...
- Who else winced as soon as you saw Scott Baker throw that piece of meat to Geoff Jenkins? No sooner did I tell my dad that "Jenkins fucking kills us every time" did he hit that moon shot. Damn you Geoff Jenkins. Go To Your Home.
- Bert Blyleven Statue Night....jinx. Everybody drinks in retrospect.
- And according to Ron Gardenhire in an article a few days ago in the Strib, "Lew Ford is a better outfielder than Tyner, so I played Lew when Kubel was hurt." I'd like to hear the reasoning for that, because after all, I am your "Jason Tyner for Everyday Play" Flag-bearer. To Kubel's rather mediocre-fielding credit, he is starting to sting the ball pretty good. He'd make a good DH.
- Today I am playing golf, and since I've played like a brain dead chimp with seizures so far this year, I am sure it won't be pretty. But when its said and done, I'll be able to take comfort in the fact that I'll be able to watch the world's best players look silly and just as incompetent during the US Open at Oakmont Country Club. Sweet Sweet Solace...
a week to go...
Next Friday is the NHL Entry Draft; while it won't get the hoopla that the NBA or NFL Draft gets, still for a hardcore puck nerd like myself (not to mention all the hosers to the north), its a pretty damn important day. This years draft, like I've reiterated over and over, doesn't have the top end talent like 06; the Erik Johnsons, Jordan Staals, Kessels, Toews, etc., the top 60 this year has more depth than last years top 60. Meaning that there isn't such a sharp drop off from the top 10 to the 60th or so guy. Chances are we (the Wild) will get at least 2 (barring a draft day trade *cough* fernandez *cough*) players in the top 60. Thanks go to AJ Thelen and his stalled development for the compensatory 42nd pick- If the whole pro hockey thing doesn't work out, I saw the dandy job he did mowing his parents yard, so perhaps there is a future there.
Anyways, there are a million mock drafts out there, and any number of players are slotted to go at #19. I'll get to that in a sec-
It seems moreso in hockey than in any other sport that there are so many differing opinions on players; I would venture to guess that it is due to the number of scouting services associated with hockey.
www.McKeenshockey.rivals.com
www.isshockey.com
www.redlinereport.com
www.hockeyprospect.com
Not to mention the individual team's scouting staff...makes for a lot of opinions on one player.
Here is ISS' final ranking for the top 30 ranked skaters for 2007:
http://www.hockeysfuture.com/articles/9735
NHL.com has an article on possible sleeper picks:
http://www.nhl.com/nhl/app?articleid=318108&page=NewsPage&service=page
The top ranked forwards and defensemen according to Kyle Woodlief of Redline;
http://www.usatoday.com/sports/hockey/columnist/woodlief/2007-05-28-forwards-draft_N.htm
http://www.usatoday.com/sports/hockey/columnist/woodlief/2007-06-11-draft-defensemen_N.htm
Here are some prospect videos:
http://www.isshockey.com/videoarchive.asp
http://www.canucks.com/subpage.asp?sectionID=822
(the clips aren't highlight reels by any means, but give you an idea of what the player does shift to shift)
Here are some mock drafts:
http://www.nhldraftbuzz.blogspot.com/
(this site also has scouting reports, one of the more comprehensive scouting blogs around)
http://www.mynhldraft.com/2007
http://www.sharkspage.com/2007_06_01_archive_history.html#5552629665982161277
...and you can find many more mock drafts on various message boards by nerds like myself. Like every year, you got people who make the requisite Minnesota connection; Last year many mocks had us taking Kyle Okposo at #9 (which wouldn't be a bad thing), and David Fischer at either #9 or #17 (which wouldn't be a bad thing again), so this year many mocks got us taking Gophers C/D Jimmy O'Brien or Patrick White at #19. If they are there and are the BPA, then Minnesota will select them. However, considering how well the hometown picks have worked out in the past (Thelen, Mike Erickson is on a milk carton somewhere), there may be some hesitation.
Now that I've inundated your minds with buzzwords like "Projected Upside", Finally here is my wishlist...
1a. Thomas Hickey, D, Seattle Thunderbirds
http://www.nhl.com/nhl/app?articleid=318368&page=NewsPage&service=page
Hickey is said to have the highest offensive upside (there it is) of any defenseman in the draft, its just a matter of which way he goes. Smallish frame, but he is only 18, and can hit. He will be an NHLer, a top 4 defenseman at the least. He fills an immediate need at defense in the prospect pipeline, especially since Thelen's departure has left us with guys like Shawn Belle and Clayton Stoner as our top defensive prospects. All I got to say is, and one of the mock drafts said it, Thomas Hickey is the WHL version of Minnesota's own Keith Ballard.
1b. Nick Petrecki, D, Omaha Lancers.
http://www.nhl.com/nhl/app/?service=page&page=NewsPage&articleid=307724
Absolutely what we need on the blueline: A hulking, mean, hard-hitting, stay at home defenseman. Petrecki is the nastiest "d" in the draft, and you have to love a guy whose upside is considered to be a "poor man's scott stevens". Petrecki has an NHL-ready frame, and may be turning pro sooner than later because of his physical maturity. His offensive game isn't anything to write home about, but there is something there as far as upside (again!)...If his offensive game had been a bit more refined, there would be Dion Phaneuf-like hype for Petrecki. Some scout his hockey sense, but I've also heard those claims are overrated. I've heard he can go top 10, while some said they wouldn't take him before 50. If he was there at 19, I'd take him in a heart beat.
2. Kevin Marshall, D, Lewiston
http://nhldraftbuzz.blogspot.com/search/label/Kevin%20Marshall
The talent analysis says it all, and I'd be happy with Marshall, a true shut down guy.
3. Patrick White, C/W, Grand Rapids/Tri-City
We all saw him at the State Tourney, stepped in and dominated in the USHL. A sniper.
4. Jeremy Smith, G, Plymouth Whalers
Let's face it, Josh Harding is now an NHLer, and after the "future", we don't have shit in the goaltending cupboard. Smith is one of the best goalies in the draft.
Well, there you go...the draft is next friday, the 22nd, at 7 pm on Vs. Here's hopin for Petrecki or Hickey sliding on the new-fangled Wild Sweater...
Anyways, there are a million mock drafts out there, and any number of players are slotted to go at #19. I'll get to that in a sec-
It seems moreso in hockey than in any other sport that there are so many differing opinions on players; I would venture to guess that it is due to the number of scouting services associated with hockey.
www.McKeenshockey.rivals.com
www.isshockey.com
www.redlinereport.com
www.hockeyprospect.com
Not to mention the individual team's scouting staff...makes for a lot of opinions on one player.
Here is ISS' final ranking for the top 30 ranked skaters for 2007:
http://www.hockeysfuture.com/articles/9735
NHL.com has an article on possible sleeper picks:
http://www.nhl.com/nhl/app?articleid=318108&page=NewsPage&service=page
The top ranked forwards and defensemen according to Kyle Woodlief of Redline;
http://www.usatoday.com/sports/hockey/columnist/woodlief/2007-05-28-forwards-draft_N.htm
http://www.usatoday.com/sports/hockey/columnist/woodlief/2007-06-11-draft-defensemen_N.htm
Here are some prospect videos:
http://www.isshockey.com/videoarchive.asp
http://www.canucks.com/subpage.asp?sectionID=822
(the clips aren't highlight reels by any means, but give you an idea of what the player does shift to shift)
Here are some mock drafts:
http://www.nhldraftbuzz.blogspot.com/
(this site also has scouting reports, one of the more comprehensive scouting blogs around)
http://www.mynhldraft.com/2007
http://www.sharkspage.com/2007_06_01_archive_history.html#5552629665982161277
...and you can find many more mock drafts on various message boards by nerds like myself. Like every year, you got people who make the requisite Minnesota connection; Last year many mocks had us taking Kyle Okposo at #9 (which wouldn't be a bad thing), and David Fischer at either #9 or #17 (which wouldn't be a bad thing again), so this year many mocks got us taking Gophers C/D Jimmy O'Brien or Patrick White at #19. If they are there and are the BPA, then Minnesota will select them. However, considering how well the hometown picks have worked out in the past (Thelen, Mike Erickson is on a milk carton somewhere), there may be some hesitation.
Now that I've inundated your minds with buzzwords like "Projected Upside", Finally here is my wishlist...
1a. Thomas Hickey, D, Seattle Thunderbirds
http://www.nhl.com/nhl/app?articleid=318368&page=NewsPage&service=page
Hickey is said to have the highest offensive upside (there it is) of any defenseman in the draft, its just a matter of which way he goes. Smallish frame, but he is only 18, and can hit. He will be an NHLer, a top 4 defenseman at the least. He fills an immediate need at defense in the prospect pipeline, especially since Thelen's departure has left us with guys like Shawn Belle and Clayton Stoner as our top defensive prospects. All I got to say is, and one of the mock drafts said it, Thomas Hickey is the WHL version of Minnesota's own Keith Ballard.
1b. Nick Petrecki, D, Omaha Lancers.
http://www.nhl.com/nhl/app/?service=page&page=NewsPage&articleid=307724
Absolutely what we need on the blueline: A hulking, mean, hard-hitting, stay at home defenseman. Petrecki is the nastiest "d" in the draft, and you have to love a guy whose upside is considered to be a "poor man's scott stevens". Petrecki has an NHL-ready frame, and may be turning pro sooner than later because of his physical maturity. His offensive game isn't anything to write home about, but there is something there as far as upside (again!)...If his offensive game had been a bit more refined, there would be Dion Phaneuf-like hype for Petrecki. Some scout his hockey sense, but I've also heard those claims are overrated. I've heard he can go top 10, while some said they wouldn't take him before 50. If he was there at 19, I'd take him in a heart beat.
2. Kevin Marshall, D, Lewiston
http://nhldraftbuzz.blogspot.com/search/label/Kevin%20Marshall
The talent analysis says it all, and I'd be happy with Marshall, a true shut down guy.
3. Patrick White, C/W, Grand Rapids/Tri-City
We all saw him at the State Tourney, stepped in and dominated in the USHL. A sniper.
4. Jeremy Smith, G, Plymouth Whalers
Let's face it, Josh Harding is now an NHLer, and after the "future", we don't have shit in the goaltending cupboard. Smith is one of the best goalies in the draft.
Well, there you go...the draft is next friday, the 22nd, at 7 pm on Vs. Here's hopin for Petrecki or Hickey sliding on the new-fangled Wild Sweater...
A week ago...
...for shame on my part. Sorry kids. Anyways, here is the uber-goddess Jessica Alba. Also, check this out.
http://thesuperficial.com/2007/06/jessica_alba_got_paris_hilton.php
What's not to lust after someone who hates Paris Hilton, doesn't mind one night stands, loves to play golf, and even goes by the mantra of "it's noon somewhere" when it comes to having a beer...oh la la
Saturday, June 9, 2007
Its Friday somewhere...
Carla Gugino...go catch her in Sin City. That movie does her serious justice.
In all seriousness...
.....motherfuck Clear Channel Communications.
And I'd like to also give thanks to the folks responsible for passing the Telecommunications Act of 1996 also. Go look it up.
Now, I am a landscaper by trade. So on Friday, lucky for me, My merry band of misfits, immigrants, and hooligans had to lay sod around a townhome complex we had been working at. Yesterday was a very nice day, so it wasn't as bad as those delightful 95 degree days with the dewpoint hovering around 932% and sodding. If there is such a thing, yesterday would have been the prototypical "perfect day to lay sod".
In my bitter old age of 26, I have officially adopted the stance of not listening to FM radio, barring some some circumstances. Whilst I am a fan of many genres of music, I am not a fan of Clear Channel owned stations, because their playlists are repetitive- and I'm talking about KQRS. 93X is the same, but the genre itself doesn't do it for me. The pop stations I will get to in minute. Anyways, I tend to listen to listen to either KFAN or my own music collection; but since my $25 dollar Ryobi radio doesn't swing the AM way, I stick with Kool 108, or if I get it, 95.5 KCHK (the pride and joy of New Prague, baby.) But really, you gotta love the oldies. As Bob Segar once put it, "today's music ain't got the same soul".
(In a shocking moment of irony, I just discovered that Kool 108 is a clear channel owned station. I feel dirty now.)
Anyways, during the process of sodding, my kool 108 got usurped for 101.3 KDW-fucking-B. It amazes me how bad pop music has become; it is fucking terrible. There is a fine line when it comes to borrowing other peoples work for your own; Some cover songs are great, sampling other works falls under the same category. I guess its relative depending on your taste. But the majority of the stuff on KDWB just plain sucks. Serious donkey dick.
I am convinced they have one playlist...that they repeat every hour. I heard, what I would presume, some Justin Timberlake song twice in 45 minutes...not to mention other catchy little songs by random and nameless artists that somehow crawl in your ear and lodges in your cerebellum. Its like they take these songs and cram them down your throat until you have no choice but to know the words.
And the cherry on top, without the doubt, is the little puke DJ who is running the charade. Now this little fucker is worth choking. I hope he goes home at night, looks in the mirror, and feels like shaving his eyebrows after having to play the latest nelly furtado/timbaland collaboration 14 times in his 4 hour shift. So not only is he on the mic like he's some sort of hot shit because he's slingin "all the hottest songs to the masses", but then he admonishes the poor bastards who happen to be listening for not being at some sort of wankfest called "Star Party". Yes Scotty Douchebag, I am reappraising what my life is because I didn't go see something called "Mims" grab his dick, do his one hot little nursery rhyme song, and make all the 13 year old white girls (the target demographic of course) scream. The girls they should be happy that they didn't get dry humped on stage by Akon (who isn't shit without his little voice box deal- give Peter Frampton his style back.) Gee, a concert full of pre-pubescent squeals and songs by one hit wonders? I must have been out taking a piss when tickets when on sale. And by taking a piss, I mean taking a shit on Tony Fly.
And I'd like to also give thanks to the folks responsible for passing the Telecommunications Act of 1996 also. Go look it up.
Now, I am a landscaper by trade. So on Friday, lucky for me, My merry band of misfits, immigrants, and hooligans had to lay sod around a townhome complex we had been working at. Yesterday was a very nice day, so it wasn't as bad as those delightful 95 degree days with the dewpoint hovering around 932% and sodding. If there is such a thing, yesterday would have been the prototypical "perfect day to lay sod".
In my bitter old age of 26, I have officially adopted the stance of not listening to FM radio, barring some some circumstances. Whilst I am a fan of many genres of music, I am not a fan of Clear Channel owned stations, because their playlists are repetitive- and I'm talking about KQRS. 93X is the same, but the genre itself doesn't do it for me. The pop stations I will get to in minute. Anyways, I tend to listen to listen to either KFAN or my own music collection; but since my $25 dollar Ryobi radio doesn't swing the AM way, I stick with Kool 108, or if I get it, 95.5 KCHK (the pride and joy of New Prague, baby.) But really, you gotta love the oldies. As Bob Segar once put it, "today's music ain't got the same soul".
(In a shocking moment of irony, I just discovered that Kool 108 is a clear channel owned station. I feel dirty now.)
Anyways, during the process of sodding, my kool 108 got usurped for 101.3 KDW-fucking-B. It amazes me how bad pop music has become; it is fucking terrible. There is a fine line when it comes to borrowing other peoples work for your own; Some cover songs are great, sampling other works falls under the same category. I guess its relative depending on your taste. But the majority of the stuff on KDWB just plain sucks. Serious donkey dick.
I am convinced they have one playlist...that they repeat every hour. I heard, what I would presume, some Justin Timberlake song twice in 45 minutes...not to mention other catchy little songs by random and nameless artists that somehow crawl in your ear and lodges in your cerebellum. Its like they take these songs and cram them down your throat until you have no choice but to know the words.
And the cherry on top, without the doubt, is the little puke DJ who is running the charade. Now this little fucker is worth choking. I hope he goes home at night, looks in the mirror, and feels like shaving his eyebrows after having to play the latest nelly furtado/timbaland collaboration 14 times in his 4 hour shift. So not only is he on the mic like he's some sort of hot shit because he's slingin "all the hottest songs to the masses", but then he admonishes the poor bastards who happen to be listening for not being at some sort of wankfest called "Star Party". Yes Scotty Douchebag, I am reappraising what my life is because I didn't go see something called "Mims" grab his dick, do his one hot little nursery rhyme song, and make all the 13 year old white girls (the target demographic of course) scream. The girls they should be happy that they didn't get dry humped on stage by Akon (who isn't shit without his little voice box deal- give Peter Frampton his style back.) Gee, a concert full of pre-pubescent squeals and songs by one hit wonders? I must have been out taking a piss when tickets when on sale. And by taking a piss, I mean taking a shit on Tony Fly.
Back, back, back, he's back
Thursday the Wild resigned Niklas Backstrom to a 2 year, 6.2 million dollar deal, which ended whatever possibility there was of him leaving via free agency come July 1st, and also all but sealed the fate of Manny Fernandez as a Minnesota goaltender. Backstrom, who on occasions has come out and professed his love for all things Minnesota, won two goaltending awards this last year, which isn't bad for a guy who just played his first year in North America.
Dougie Risebrough, blowing smoke up peoples asses, spoke out and said that both Fernandez and Backstrom would be playing for the Wild this fall...which is complete horseshit, and a very terrible manner of trying to sell a moody, inconsistent, and great at times 33 year old goaltender with a hefty contract. Wow Doug, you could sell air conditioners to eskimos with that sort of sales tactic. While in all likely hood Manny will be shipped off (past trade history points to draft day, June 22nd), the question remains in how much would we get back? Is it worth it to add in a prospect to entice a greater return, especially considering Minnesota's mantra of building from within?
Dougie Risebrough, blowing smoke up peoples asses, spoke out and said that both Fernandez and Backstrom would be playing for the Wild this fall...which is complete horseshit, and a very terrible manner of trying to sell a moody, inconsistent, and great at times 33 year old goaltender with a hefty contract. Wow Doug, you could sell air conditioners to eskimos with that sort of sales tactic. While in all likely hood Manny will be shipped off (past trade history points to draft day, June 22nd), the question remains in how much would we get back? Is it worth it to add in a prospect to entice a greater return, especially considering Minnesota's mantra of building from within?
Friday, June 8, 2007
Mauernoia
First it seemed as if the sky was falling, as reported by local media outlets, when Joe Mauer first went down 29 games ago with a strained quadricep; the injury itself was of the mysterious ilk, one more associated with a football injury. At times the top story on the nightly news, Minnesota's Golden Boy went onto the disabled list.
Thursday marked the recall of Mr. Charisma, and we were treated to editorials and columns about Mauer's durability, and possible solutions (ya, the umpteenth million time a move to 3rd base has been mentioned), and even more absurdedly, a comparison to AJ Pierzynski and AJP's durability. Ya, it was a bit on the silly side.
There happens to be a correlation between Joe Mauer and the weather; hell, I guess the possibility exists that Joe Mauer is a form of weather, because whoever covers either often responds in a frenzied chicken little style. The talking head weather reporters were calling yesterdays apocalyptic storm (that never was) a harbinger of doom; say your prayers, get canned food, flashlights, and run!
Well, in not a sharp contrast, we got "Joe Mauer has to move to third base!" "His knee will never hold up" during the meniscus removal hiatus, and now its come back in full force after the shit storm about the quadricep.
Really, its no different than some hunyuk on Channel 9 having a canary about the possibility of 2 freaking inches of snow a week from now...
But let's all bow our heads and pray that "Joe Mauer was so strong that he choked himself out"...which to quote Belinda Jensen, is what happened to the storm last night.
Thursday marked the recall of Mr. Charisma, and we were treated to editorials and columns about Mauer's durability, and possible solutions (ya, the umpteenth million time a move to 3rd base has been mentioned), and even more absurdedly, a comparison to AJ Pierzynski and AJP's durability. Ya, it was a bit on the silly side.
There happens to be a correlation between Joe Mauer and the weather; hell, I guess the possibility exists that Joe Mauer is a form of weather, because whoever covers either often responds in a frenzied chicken little style. The talking head weather reporters were calling yesterdays apocalyptic storm (that never was) a harbinger of doom; say your prayers, get canned food, flashlights, and run!
Well, in not a sharp contrast, we got "Joe Mauer has to move to third base!" "His knee will never hold up" during the meniscus removal hiatus, and now its come back in full force after the shit storm about the quadricep.
Really, its no different than some hunyuk on Channel 9 having a canary about the possibility of 2 freaking inches of snow a week from now...
But let's all bow our heads and pray that "Joe Mauer was so strong that he choked himself out"...which to quote Belinda Jensen, is what happened to the storm last night.
Wednesday, June 6, 2007
As the cup will be hoist...
...the season shall end. After Minnesota was thumped and unceremoniously eliminated from the 2007 NHL postseason, I essentially stopped watching playoff hockey. Call it a sore spot, bitterness, or an immediate switch of focus towards the fellas at the Big Inflatable, but when it boils down to it you gotta watch the Stanley Cup. There is no doubt that there is some sort of emotional tie to it; after all we did lose to Anaheim (dirty fucking cheaters).
The Ducks are just too much for Ottawa; and with a 4-2 lead at the onset of the 3rd period, chances are that Lord Stanley's Cup will be passed around from one dirty cheater to another at the Honda Center tonight. And sadly, probably not as sad as the Wild got sent to the golf course, that will mark the end of the hockey season. Sure the draft happens on the 22nd (don't worry, I'll weigh in with my nerdy $3 dollar Mel Kiper-like observations), free agency starts July 1st...and then a whole lot of fucking nothing til mid to late August.
My correction, its now 5-2 Anaheim. I do believe the proverbial fat lady is doing her vocal warmups now...
The Ducks are just too much for Ottawa; and with a 4-2 lead at the onset of the 3rd period, chances are that Lord Stanley's Cup will be passed around from one dirty cheater to another at the Honda Center tonight. And sadly, probably not as sad as the Wild got sent to the golf course, that will mark the end of the hockey season. Sure the draft happens on the 22nd (don't worry, I'll weigh in with my nerdy $3 dollar Mel Kiper-like observations), free agency starts July 1st...and then a whole lot of fucking nothing til mid to late August.
My correction, its now 5-2 Anaheim. I do believe the proverbial fat lady is doing her vocal warmups now...
Ten ways to save the NHL...
...according to Tim Colishaw.
http://www.dallasnews.com/sharedcontent/dws/dn/latestnews/stories/060607dnspocowlishaw.2cb3128.html
http://www.dallasnews.com/sharedcontent/dws/dn/latestnews/stories/060607dnspocowlishaw.2cb3128.html
Sunday, June 3, 2007
Saturday, June 2, 2007
Pitbulls don't know how to apply a foot choke.
Maybe its just me, but isn't the world of Mixed Martial Arts (MMA for those into the whole brevity thing) suddenly being thrust in the public eye of late? Chuck Liddell, who at the time was the reigning UFC light heavyweight champ, was featured in numerous media outlets: ESPN the Mag, Jim Rome's radio show, SI, etc. in the days and weeks leading up to his bout (and subsequent ass kicking by) Quinten "Rampage" Jackson. There was a big to-do about how MMA (most notably UFC) was challenging Boxing for fan attention surrounding the Mayweather/De La Hoya fight. All of the sudden, it was like MMA was getting the poker treatment- you can't flip through the tv channels anymore without finding some sort of MMA program. "Most Extreme Death Cage Fighting" on the Gay and Lesbian Channel!
With the whole sport being thrust under the national eye, its really interesting yet frustrating to hear opinions on it. I'll use UFC as the flag bearer for the MMA movement. Clips of the Liddell/Jackson fight were given air time on ESPN programming, on such programs as Sportscenter and PTI, which also meant that many who don't really follow UFC/Pride like the hardcore fans do, were given a taste of what MMA can be like; a guy gets knocked down, a couple hammer fists to the chin, fight is stopped, etc.
"THIS IS TOO BRUTAL! How is this on television?!?"
"These guys are animals!"
"THIS ISN'T A SPORT! (funny enough the bartender then changed the station to Poker. Delicious Irony.)
"Why would anyone want to do this?"
"This is nothing more than human dogfighting!"
These are the same people who think wrestling is fake and no one gets hurt. Or that high school, collegiate, or olympic wrestling is just two sweaty dudes with cauliflower ears in underwear
wrestle around in some sort of homoerotic dance.
MMA highlights are a double edged sword- you see the highlights of dudes getting knocked the fuck out, which is what the fans want to see, but yet there is more to a match than just the knockouts. But on the same token, the non fans see these highlights, and draw the conclusion that the raw brutality of the knockouts are indicative of what MMA is all about; like its nothing more than just a sanctioned "Fight Club". That people die in the ring/octogon/rhombus. That limbs are broken, blood is drank, and that the feral blood thirsty fans go home happy after seeing someone leave on a stretcher.
But, in true societal fashion, these clowns won't take the time to watch and attempt to understand that its not that way. For anyone who is in the "know" (anyone who has seen MMA more than once or twice) can tell you that knockouts tend to be exceptions, and not the rule. That guys tap out and concede victory before shoulders are ripped out, knees are blown out, and consciousness is lost from asphyxiation. There is blood, don't get me wrong, but its not like dudes are pulling out eyeballs and skull fucking opponents in front of crowds.
MMA is no more brutal than Joe Theismann getting his leg snapped like a twig by Lawrence Taylor; or Junior Seau's right arm looking like it has two elbows. Or Shaun Livingston dislocating his kneecap (an ESPN webgem of course), or Ryan Freel getting knocked out cold in the outfield. Its funny how we cheer on for the brutality of a big hit in hockey or football; you know the ones; the huge noise of pads on pads, as one of the parties involved is destroyed by the momentum of the other, knocking them out cold. We love the huge concussive hits, the kind of hits that can ruin careers. It pumps up the team, the fans, merchandise sales, and ratings.
Yet when one man punches another in the face in a geometrically shaped ring, its too violent. Its nothing more than two animals fighting to the death. Its wrong. It makes Jesus cry.
Funny how things work out, eh?
With the whole sport being thrust under the national eye, its really interesting yet frustrating to hear opinions on it. I'll use UFC as the flag bearer for the MMA movement. Clips of the Liddell/Jackson fight were given air time on ESPN programming, on such programs as Sportscenter and PTI, which also meant that many who don't really follow UFC/Pride like the hardcore fans do, were given a taste of what MMA can be like; a guy gets knocked down, a couple hammer fists to the chin, fight is stopped, etc.
"THIS IS TOO BRUTAL! How is this on television?!?"
"These guys are animals!"
"THIS ISN'T A SPORT! (funny enough the bartender then changed the station to Poker. Delicious Irony.)
"Why would anyone want to do this?"
"This is nothing more than human dogfighting!"
These are the same people who think wrestling is fake and no one gets hurt. Or that high school, collegiate, or olympic wrestling is just two sweaty dudes with cauliflower ears in underwear
wrestle around in some sort of homoerotic dance.
MMA highlights are a double edged sword- you see the highlights of dudes getting knocked the fuck out, which is what the fans want to see, but yet there is more to a match than just the knockouts. But on the same token, the non fans see these highlights, and draw the conclusion that the raw brutality of the knockouts are indicative of what MMA is all about; like its nothing more than just a sanctioned "Fight Club". That people die in the ring/octogon/rhombus. That limbs are broken, blood is drank, and that the feral blood thirsty fans go home happy after seeing someone leave on a stretcher.
But, in true societal fashion, these clowns won't take the time to watch and attempt to understand that its not that way. For anyone who is in the "know" (anyone who has seen MMA more than once or twice) can tell you that knockouts tend to be exceptions, and not the rule. That guys tap out and concede victory before shoulders are ripped out, knees are blown out, and consciousness is lost from asphyxiation. There is blood, don't get me wrong, but its not like dudes are pulling out eyeballs and skull fucking opponents in front of crowds.
MMA is no more brutal than Joe Theismann getting his leg snapped like a twig by Lawrence Taylor; or Junior Seau's right arm looking like it has two elbows. Or Shaun Livingston dislocating his kneecap (an ESPN webgem of course), or Ryan Freel getting knocked out cold in the outfield. Its funny how we cheer on for the brutality of a big hit in hockey or football; you know the ones; the huge noise of pads on pads, as one of the parties involved is destroyed by the momentum of the other, knocking them out cold. We love the huge concussive hits, the kind of hits that can ruin careers. It pumps up the team, the fans, merchandise sales, and ratings.
Yet when one man punches another in the face in a geometrically shaped ring, its too violent. Its nothing more than two animals fighting to the death. Its wrong. It makes Jesus cry.
Funny how things work out, eh?
The end of an era
3 pm came and went yesterday, and now no longer is AJ Thelen considered property of the Minnesota Wild. Ahhh yes, it truly is an end of an era. Thelen's legacy will be that of the first 1st rounder of the Wild to go bust, and dammit, I was looking forward to the "1st round pick collectors edition" puck featuring Thelen. Shoot.
I know I defended him and basically campaigned for Minnesota to sign him; but I guess a spade is a spade, and in this case, a spade is a 1st round bust.
I can't believe how the Wild brass admitted how they should have taken Andrei Mezsaros instead; talk about insult to injury.
So maybe we should take a trip down memory lane...there are so many Thelen moments to chose from...
...maybe not. But maybe the most important one there is, if the only one isn't when he got drafted, or his training camp, or his role in Vancouver winning the memorial cup- It will go like this.
"with the 42nd overall pick in the 2007 NHL Entry Draft, the Minnesota Wild select..."
I know I defended him and basically campaigned for Minnesota to sign him; but I guess a spade is a spade, and in this case, a spade is a 1st round bust.
I can't believe how the Wild brass admitted how they should have taken Andrei Mezsaros instead; talk about insult to injury.
So maybe we should take a trip down memory lane...there are so many Thelen moments to chose from...
...maybe not. But maybe the most important one there is, if the only one isn't when he got drafted, or his training camp, or his role in Vancouver winning the memorial cup- It will go like this.
"with the 42nd overall pick in the 2007 NHL Entry Draft, the Minnesota Wild select..."
Friday, June 1, 2007
BOOYA
I figured I'd set the tone for the month of June with this...Victoria Pratt. (Declare Guerre Nucleaire!)
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