Ya, the titles doesn't really have anything to do with the game against Phoenix, unless you want to try and make a reach that Arizona has alot of cowboy boot-wearing folk and that the Coyotes didn't play that well.
Well, I guess in it way it does work. Its also one of the best 11 minute songs you'll ever hear- its by Traffic, go check it out.
Well, in the matchup of James Sheppard vs. Peter Mueller, its safe to say Sheppard won. A goal and an assist for the kid, and the Luigi to Sheppard's Mario (get it, they are "plumbers"), Aaron Voros, had two assists. The twosome teamed up on the first and third goals, and right now is one of the driving forces behind the Minnesota Wild's ship slowly regaining course. Its great to watch Voros celebrate the goals, because whether he scores them or not, he is easily the most gassed up player on the ice.
Marian Gaborik, finally reunited with Pavol Demitra, back from a slight groin tear, scored on a dandy of a breakaway goal in the second period. Gaborik was pressuring the 'Yotes Steven Reinprecht, which led to a weak pass attempt across the blueline to Keith Ballard (who was unfortunately assigned to shutdown Gaborik/Demitra and Co. all night), which was picked off, and after an insane display of acceleration, dangled his way to a goal against Ilya Bryzgalov, the Phoenix goaltender. Talk about a gift; Bryzgalov is a legit starting goalie who was snatched up off of waivers from Anaheim, and has almost single handedly turned Phoenix' season around. To give Brian Burke credit, the Anaheim GM, he has come out and said that he would give Bryzgalov the opportunity to play, whether it be by trade or straight up waivers. Works out for Wayne Gretzky and Co., right?
But when it comes down to it, Minnesota was just the better team. Nik Backstrom was superb, Kim Johnsson was very good- showing what many here thought he was going to do when he signed here. He moved the puck effortlessly, defended very well, made some very nice breakout passes, and just plain outskated the opposition. The Wild did well in getting Daniel Carcillo, agitator/pest in the making, off his game, particularly Aaron Voros, and Sean Hill, who was the target of Carcillo's ire for most of the game. Hill smoked Carcillo with a hip check, sending him limping off the ice, and ultimately looking for retribution most of the night. You are definitely now seeing what Hill brings- he hits everything, is physical around the net, and even saw some power play time. Funny how injuries work things out sometimes.
On a side note, Columbus center Jiri Novotny was put on IR because of a concussion. Why do you care? Because the concussion came from Aaron Voros hitting Novotny with a clean check as Voros stepped out of the penalty box. Honestly it was the lone highlight from Friday's game.
Thursday, November 29, 2007
Tis a firesale
Figured this is appropriate, since this is Twins-related...
http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2007/writers/jon_heyman/11/29/thursday.scoop/index.html
http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2007/writers/jon_heyman/11/29/thursday.scoop/index.html
Hit me with your....wait, no.
I'm not gonna use that for a title.
http://www.kuklaskorner.com/index.php/hockey/comments/hits_of_the_week/
ps. Phaneuf left his feet to hit Hudler. That's a no-no.
http://www.kuklaskorner.com/index.php/hockey/comments/hits_of_the_week/
ps. Phaneuf left his feet to hit Hudler. That's a no-no.
Wednesday, November 28, 2007
Tuesday, November 27, 2007
For a man known for Horror...
...Stephen King is speaking some serious truth in this interview, especially on the topic of celebrity.
http://www.time.com/time/arts/article/0,8599,1687229,00.html
http://www.time.com/time/arts/article/0,8599,1687229,00.html
Bound and Determined...
...the be those same Broad Street Bullies of the 70's.
Scott Hartnell will get two games for this hit on Eden Prairie's own Andrew Alberts, from the Philly/Boston game Monday night. This is the third suspension handed out to a Philadelphia Flyer this season.
Scott Hartnell will get two games for this hit on Eden Prairie's own Andrew Alberts, from the Philly/Boston game Monday night. This is the third suspension handed out to a Philadelphia Flyer this season.
Monday, November 26, 2007
#23...Road to Redemption
Gotta love trying to do these recaps from memory- Its hard for me (I drink heavily at times) to point finger to keypad well after the game and try and remember the things that I notice.
Sometimes its like a plane with no propeller.
Anyways, big win for Minnesota, considering the wicked awesome 4 wins in the past 14 games streak they had going into the Music City Saturday night. Tensions are high- Dougie Risebrough ain't too happy with the team after a really hot start to the season.
The man under the microscope is Branko Radivojevic. When he was signed last summer, he was made out to be a forechecking monster, a gritty energy guy. Well, he is...at times. After his first scratch in a Wild uniform Friday afternoon, presumably to send a message to him and the team, Radio was just as what he was advertised; a forechecking monster, who in the end, was rewarded with the game winning goal after he ripped a wrist shot past Nashville goalie Chris Mason late in the third period. He pressured the Predators' defensemen as they tried to move the puck out of their zone and as they retreated to play the puck from behind the goal line (by my count almost beat out icing calls twice), he hit people, and played like he wanted to stay in the lineup.
A kick in the ass, is sometimes a valid form of motivation.
From a man who might lose his job to a man who has most definitely earned one, Aaron Voros. Voros and his merry band of hooligans, linemates Matt Foy and rookie Center James Sheppard again accounted for two of the Wild goals. This line seems to be clicking (and producing points), and will likely get some extended ice time in the next few games. Voros' goal was a deflection off a screen he set, where he got a piece of a Brent Burns point shot, and Foy's was a nice little redirect after Sheppard knocked a clearing pass out of the air and immediately sent a very pretty cross ice pass to Foy just inside the left faceoff dot. And when it came down to crunch time, when the benches get shortened, Sheppard is continuing to see shifts. The kid has shown that he can handle the 10-12 minutes of ice time he is getting (which he wasn't supposed to get but injuries forced Lemaire's hand), and may be in line for more. Sheppard is beginning to make plays- its now become common place to see Sheppard come up ice with the puck and try and make a move for a scoring chance. His strength is along the boards however, it doesn't seem like he loses the puck very often in the scrums along the half wall. Where I do have a bit of an issue is on the power play- Lemaire uses his big frame out in front of the goalie, presumably for screens. Where I'd like to see him is more toward the half-wall, where he can use his superb passing and play making ability, and be able to protect the puck down low.
Much to my chagrin (you know how much I love the JINX), The broadcast team of Mike Greenlay and Dan Terhaar kept commenting on how Nik Backstrom was showing last year's form. Such statements make me cringe- surely following the expounding of said praise, Nashville tied the game. But they were right, Backstrom looked more sure than in recent games, which is exactly what they need to get out of this miserable slump.
- Pavol Demitra should play Wednesday against the Phoenix Coyotes, which means a roster move may happen.
- Speaking of Phoenix, a player worth watching will be Peter Mueller, of Bloomington. Mueller played at Breck, then went to the US National Team, then spent two very productive seasons for Houston Aeros Coach Kevin Constantine at Everett of the WHL. Mueller was selected 8th overall in 2006, one spot ahead of James Sheppard. So it will be interesting to see those two go head to head, and rumors have it the Wild wanted Mueller with the 9th overall...
- Condolences go to GM Doug Risebrough, for his mother passed away today after a battle with cancer. Thoughts and prayers go to the Risebrough familty.
Sometimes its like a plane with no propeller.
Anyways, big win for Minnesota, considering the wicked awesome 4 wins in the past 14 games streak they had going into the Music City Saturday night. Tensions are high- Dougie Risebrough ain't too happy with the team after a really hot start to the season.
The man under the microscope is Branko Radivojevic. When he was signed last summer, he was made out to be a forechecking monster, a gritty energy guy. Well, he is...at times. After his first scratch in a Wild uniform Friday afternoon, presumably to send a message to him and the team, Radio was just as what he was advertised; a forechecking monster, who in the end, was rewarded with the game winning goal after he ripped a wrist shot past Nashville goalie Chris Mason late in the third period. He pressured the Predators' defensemen as they tried to move the puck out of their zone and as they retreated to play the puck from behind the goal line (by my count almost beat out icing calls twice), he hit people, and played like he wanted to stay in the lineup.
A kick in the ass, is sometimes a valid form of motivation.
From a man who might lose his job to a man who has most definitely earned one, Aaron Voros. Voros and his merry band of hooligans, linemates Matt Foy and rookie Center James Sheppard again accounted for two of the Wild goals. This line seems to be clicking (and producing points), and will likely get some extended ice time in the next few games. Voros' goal was a deflection off a screen he set, where he got a piece of a Brent Burns point shot, and Foy's was a nice little redirect after Sheppard knocked a clearing pass out of the air and immediately sent a very pretty cross ice pass to Foy just inside the left faceoff dot. And when it came down to crunch time, when the benches get shortened, Sheppard is continuing to see shifts. The kid has shown that he can handle the 10-12 minutes of ice time he is getting (which he wasn't supposed to get but injuries forced Lemaire's hand), and may be in line for more. Sheppard is beginning to make plays- its now become common place to see Sheppard come up ice with the puck and try and make a move for a scoring chance. His strength is along the boards however, it doesn't seem like he loses the puck very often in the scrums along the half wall. Where I do have a bit of an issue is on the power play- Lemaire uses his big frame out in front of the goalie, presumably for screens. Where I'd like to see him is more toward the half-wall, where he can use his superb passing and play making ability, and be able to protect the puck down low.
Much to my chagrin (you know how much I love the JINX), The broadcast team of Mike Greenlay and Dan Terhaar kept commenting on how Nik Backstrom was showing last year's form. Such statements make me cringe- surely following the expounding of said praise, Nashville tied the game. But they were right, Backstrom looked more sure than in recent games, which is exactly what they need to get out of this miserable slump.
- Pavol Demitra should play Wednesday against the Phoenix Coyotes, which means a roster move may happen.
- Speaking of Phoenix, a player worth watching will be Peter Mueller, of Bloomington. Mueller played at Breck, then went to the US National Team, then spent two very productive seasons for Houston Aeros Coach Kevin Constantine at Everett of the WHL. Mueller was selected 8th overall in 2006, one spot ahead of James Sheppard. So it will be interesting to see those two go head to head, and rumors have it the Wild wanted Mueller with the 9th overall...
- Condolences go to GM Doug Risebrough, for his mother passed away today after a battle with cancer. Thoughts and prayers go to the Risebrough familty.
#22...Bottomed Out
First off, I hope all had a good Thanksgiving.
Second off, what a terrible display Friday afternoon. Without a doubt, the lowest point of the season so far; Minnesota could have easily been mistaken for the Old Dutch Little Chippers.
It was that bad.
Very little positivity, very few things to even praise- even the usual Derek Boogaard/Jody Shelley matchup was on the blah side.
Friday marked the (rather nondescript) debut of the newly-acquired Todd Fedoruk. Again, not much to talk about. Fedoruk started in place of Branko Radivojevic, who suddenly finds himself in dire straits ; Radio has to perform now, because it is being insinuated that his spot will be the first to open up when a roster move is necessitated.
0 for 9 on the power play...
Can we just forget about this one?
Second off, what a terrible display Friday afternoon. Without a doubt, the lowest point of the season so far; Minnesota could have easily been mistaken for the Old Dutch Little Chippers.
It was that bad.
Very little positivity, very few things to even praise- even the usual Derek Boogaard/Jody Shelley matchup was on the blah side.
Friday marked the (rather nondescript) debut of the newly-acquired Todd Fedoruk. Again, not much to talk about. Fedoruk started in place of Branko Radivojevic, who suddenly finds himself in dire straits ; Radio has to perform now, because it is being insinuated that his spot will be the first to open up when a roster move is necessitated.
0 for 9 on the power play...
Can we just forget about this one?
Friday, November 23, 2007
#21...Don't Believe the Hype
Well, I would say I was as guilty as anyone when it came to the hype and anticipation surrounding the game against Vancouver. I expected (wrongly, because I do believe in the JINX) to have a bloodbath, with fights, big hits, and all that fun extracurriculars that the purists love and the anti-violence flagbearing soccer moms hate.
And it turned out to be what, one fight? If you want to call it that?
And funny, in a cruel sense of irony, the Markus Naslund-Sedin twins line fucking killed the Wild. Being there, it was dread as soon as I saw either Sedin gather control of the puck, because it inevitably led to a sequence of keep-away from the Minnesota line assigned to check them (Sorry Dom Moore, but that line sorely misses Mikko Koivu), and often led to a Markus Naslund scoring opportunity.
And just like that, Vancouver leaves Minnesota with two points, and Canuck Nation gets the last laugh.
Marian Gaborik did his best to single handedly win the game, or at least keep the team in it- I did notice there was a portion of time to start the third period where he wasn't seeing ice time. Unfortunately, Gaborik was one of the few, if any, Wild players with any jump; they all just looked lethargic. That in itself is unexcusable, considering the pretenses that led to the game. This performance is leading to something bigger...I'll get to it later.
I like what Sean Hill brings to the ice- he was notably more physical than the other D, and could be a really nice addition once he gets his timing right. Could make for an interesting logjam at the blueline.
I'd like to take this time to thank Matt Cooke for continuing to be that pain in the ass player we love to hate- trying to low-bridge Nick Schultz, then turtling when Schultz confronted him, and then running Petteri Nummelin a few times during one shift, culminating with Nummelin leaving the ice on wobbly legs, and straight to the IR with a Head and Face injury. Its no wonder this is being talked about:
http://www.tsn.ca/tsn_talent/columnists/darren_dreger/?ID=223391
I'm all for it.
Josh Harding has also been placed on the IR, presumably after effects from being run over by Nick Schultz on a last ditch effort to prevent a goal stemming from a poor line change. This could be bad news, Harding has a history with head injuries- He was elbowed in the head by Former Gopher Jeff Taffe a couple years ago in the AHL, which lead to an extended time away from the ice. Nolan Schaefer, who is racking up the frequent flyer miles, has been called up to back up Nik Backstrom, although considering the slump the starting goalie is in, don't be surprised if Schaefer sees a start or two.
So, after dropping 9 of the past 13, after a hot start, now what? GM Doug Risebrough is not happy. So, yesterday the Wild claimed Todd Fedoruk off re-entry waivers from Dallas. Remember Todd Fedoruk? The guy who catapulted Derek Boogaard into cult status?
Or you may remember him as the guy who was taken off on a stretcher last year after a bout with Colton Orr?
Ok, so "The Fridge" might not be a good fighter. But its not that which led him to Minnesota. Fridge is supposedly a great team guy (according to Mike Russo, he was very funny in their phone interview), and while he won't put up a ton of points, he is very good in the physical forechecking role. He was playing very well in Anaheim before the Boogaard catastrophe, in that same sparkplug role, and will (my guess is) out to draw penalties. Fedoruk is a good skater for a guy his size, and does possess more skill than Boogaard- on the flip side, he doesn't have to fill that enforcer role anymore, and adds team toughness in the matchups where Boogaard isn't needed in the lineup.
And there isn't anyone better than Jacques Lemaire in terms of getting the most out of his players.
Aaron Voros, who had quickly worked himself into Lemaire's good graces, was sent down to Houston...for an hour, until Nummelin was placed on IR. Lemaire was adamant about how he wanted Voros to stay, and was pissy when told of Voros' reassignment. Voros will remain with the team, which means that a roster shakeup could be in the making. The addition of Fedoruk means there is limited space for the non-skill guys- Branko Radivojevic's name has been immediately tossed out as one of the borderline guys, and I would consider Matt Foy in that danger zone also. Considering Stephane Veilleux is wearing the "A", he's safe. Dom Moore is safe, purely because of the situation at center. So, someone's gonna have to go when the team gets healthier.
I'll be expecting Fridge in the lineup this afternoon (just don't fight Todd) against Columbus. Jobs are now on the line, lets see how the team responds.
And it turned out to be what, one fight? If you want to call it that?
And funny, in a cruel sense of irony, the Markus Naslund-Sedin twins line fucking killed the Wild. Being there, it was dread as soon as I saw either Sedin gather control of the puck, because it inevitably led to a sequence of keep-away from the Minnesota line assigned to check them (Sorry Dom Moore, but that line sorely misses Mikko Koivu), and often led to a Markus Naslund scoring opportunity.
And just like that, Vancouver leaves Minnesota with two points, and Canuck Nation gets the last laugh.
Marian Gaborik did his best to single handedly win the game, or at least keep the team in it- I did notice there was a portion of time to start the third period where he wasn't seeing ice time. Unfortunately, Gaborik was one of the few, if any, Wild players with any jump; they all just looked lethargic. That in itself is unexcusable, considering the pretenses that led to the game. This performance is leading to something bigger...I'll get to it later.
I like what Sean Hill brings to the ice- he was notably more physical than the other D, and could be a really nice addition once he gets his timing right. Could make for an interesting logjam at the blueline.
I'd like to take this time to thank Matt Cooke for continuing to be that pain in the ass player we love to hate- trying to low-bridge Nick Schultz, then turtling when Schultz confronted him, and then running Petteri Nummelin a few times during one shift, culminating with Nummelin leaving the ice on wobbly legs, and straight to the IR with a Head and Face injury. Its no wonder this is being talked about:
http://www.tsn.ca/tsn_talent/columnists/darren_dreger/?ID=223391
I'm all for it.
Josh Harding has also been placed on the IR, presumably after effects from being run over by Nick Schultz on a last ditch effort to prevent a goal stemming from a poor line change. This could be bad news, Harding has a history with head injuries- He was elbowed in the head by Former Gopher Jeff Taffe a couple years ago in the AHL, which lead to an extended time away from the ice. Nolan Schaefer, who is racking up the frequent flyer miles, has been called up to back up Nik Backstrom, although considering the slump the starting goalie is in, don't be surprised if Schaefer sees a start or two.
So, after dropping 9 of the past 13, after a hot start, now what? GM Doug Risebrough is not happy. So, yesterday the Wild claimed Todd Fedoruk off re-entry waivers from Dallas. Remember Todd Fedoruk? The guy who catapulted Derek Boogaard into cult status?
Or you may remember him as the guy who was taken off on a stretcher last year after a bout with Colton Orr?
Ok, so "The Fridge" might not be a good fighter. But its not that which led him to Minnesota. Fridge is supposedly a great team guy (according to Mike Russo, he was very funny in their phone interview), and while he won't put up a ton of points, he is very good in the physical forechecking role. He was playing very well in Anaheim before the Boogaard catastrophe, in that same sparkplug role, and will (my guess is) out to draw penalties. Fedoruk is a good skater for a guy his size, and does possess more skill than Boogaard- on the flip side, he doesn't have to fill that enforcer role anymore, and adds team toughness in the matchups where Boogaard isn't needed in the lineup.
And there isn't anyone better than Jacques Lemaire in terms of getting the most out of his players.
Aaron Voros, who had quickly worked himself into Lemaire's good graces, was sent down to Houston...for an hour, until Nummelin was placed on IR. Lemaire was adamant about how he wanted Voros to stay, and was pissy when told of Voros' reassignment. Voros will remain with the team, which means that a roster shakeup could be in the making. The addition of Fedoruk means there is limited space for the non-skill guys- Branko Radivojevic's name has been immediately tossed out as one of the borderline guys, and I would consider Matt Foy in that danger zone also. Considering Stephane Veilleux is wearing the "A", he's safe. Dom Moore is safe, purely because of the situation at center. So, someone's gonna have to go when the team gets healthier.
I'll be expecting Fridge in the lineup this afternoon (just don't fight Todd) against Columbus. Jobs are now on the line, lets see how the team responds.
Tuesday, November 20, 2007
No Doubt about it we gettin Scummy
On the eve of the highly anticipated game/avengement/revenge/donnybrook against Vancouver, the mouths of the parties involved have become a bit venomous. First, here is Alex Burrows and Ryan Kesler on Derek Boogaard...
http://www.canada.com/vancouversun/news/sports/story.html?id=10600780-6b62-4201-af18-26ac2e500852&k=97139
And Mike Russo he mentioned that a few Minnesota players got some choice words also...
http://www.startribune.com/wild/story/1564346.html
Russo also stated, much to any hockey fan's delight, that Mick McGeough will reffing tomorrow night. Sigh...just let them play Mick, the fans pay to watch the game, not you and your overactive calls.
Curtis Sanford looks to be in net for the Canucks tomorrow; one, to spell Roberto Luongo on the back end of consecutive games (They play the Oilers tonight), and two, as precaution because there will be some pushing and shoving in the crease, so its to protect the main component of the Vancouver club (Luongo.) Vancouver also sent down Jannik Hansen, a skill player, to call up Mike Brown, who has 402 penalty minutes in 152 American League games. I'll give you a guess as to what he is for.
Now, onto Bob McKenzie's commentary on Boogaard's postgame comments Friday night, about how he'll just check Vancouver's skill players.
http://www.tsn.ca/tsn_talent/columnists/bob_mckenzie/
Hold on a second Bob. I think before everyone works themselves into a tizzy about Derek Boogaard, the last remaining link to the yesteryear of the traditional goon archetype, talking about how he'll "go after" Vancouver's skill guys, lets take the whole quote and put it in context. Boogey was talking about how Vancouver's cornucopia of pests and agitators take runs at, slash, hook, and all-around take liberties with Minnesota's skill guys. But when it comes to owning up to their actions, "they all scatter to their holes." So, Boogaard was suggesting that he could do the same, because that's what the Canucks do. Maybe I'm dense, but I never really gathered a legitimate threat of violence, a Babe Ruthian-like call to crosschecking, a "bounty" if you will from that quote.
Do you really think Boogaard is that stupid?
He knows, the team knows, Lemaire knows, I know, you know, hell my dog knows that for some reason Boogaard is watched like he is Ogie Ogilthorpe from Slapshot, despite his pedestrian penalty minutes over the course of his career. It would be one thing if he slashed Mikko Koivu, or cross checked Ryan Kesler in the face, or tomahawked Ryan Hollweg, then I suppose the close eye from the Officials and the League would be warranted.
But, its not. Just because he looks the part, doesn't mean he is.
Personally speaking, I'd like to see this game degenerate into line brawls, and fights all over the place. Maybe its some bloodthirst on my part, but fuck, why not? Coming into the season, the Wild made it a point to enhance their team toughness, right?
For funsies, here is Matt Cooke getting destroyed by Dustin Brown.
Listen Closely, and you can hear Sean Avery yell "How's your fuckin head Cookie?"
http://www.canada.com/vancouversun/news/sports/story.html?id=10600780-6b62-4201-af18-26ac2e500852&k=97139
And Mike Russo he mentioned that a few Minnesota players got some choice words also...
http://www.startribune.com/wild/story/1564346.html
Russo also stated, much to any hockey fan's delight, that Mick McGeough will reffing tomorrow night. Sigh...just let them play Mick, the fans pay to watch the game, not you and your overactive calls.
Curtis Sanford looks to be in net for the Canucks tomorrow; one, to spell Roberto Luongo on the back end of consecutive games (They play the Oilers tonight), and two, as precaution because there will be some pushing and shoving in the crease, so its to protect the main component of the Vancouver club (Luongo.) Vancouver also sent down Jannik Hansen, a skill player, to call up Mike Brown, who has 402 penalty minutes in 152 American League games. I'll give you a guess as to what he is for.
Now, onto Bob McKenzie's commentary on Boogaard's postgame comments Friday night, about how he'll just check Vancouver's skill players.
http://www.tsn.ca/tsn_talent/columnists/bob_mckenzie/
Hold on a second Bob. I think before everyone works themselves into a tizzy about Derek Boogaard, the last remaining link to the yesteryear of the traditional goon archetype, talking about how he'll "go after" Vancouver's skill guys, lets take the whole quote and put it in context. Boogey was talking about how Vancouver's cornucopia of pests and agitators take runs at, slash, hook, and all-around take liberties with Minnesota's skill guys. But when it comes to owning up to their actions, "they all scatter to their holes." So, Boogaard was suggesting that he could do the same, because that's what the Canucks do. Maybe I'm dense, but I never really gathered a legitimate threat of violence, a Babe Ruthian-like call to crosschecking, a "bounty" if you will from that quote.
Do you really think Boogaard is that stupid?
He knows, the team knows, Lemaire knows, I know, you know, hell my dog knows that for some reason Boogaard is watched like he is Ogie Ogilthorpe from Slapshot, despite his pedestrian penalty minutes over the course of his career. It would be one thing if he slashed Mikko Koivu, or cross checked Ryan Kesler in the face, or tomahawked Ryan Hollweg, then I suppose the close eye from the Officials and the League would be warranted.
But, its not. Just because he looks the part, doesn't mean he is.
Personally speaking, I'd like to see this game degenerate into line brawls, and fights all over the place. Maybe its some bloodthirst on my part, but fuck, why not? Coming into the season, the Wild made it a point to enhance their team toughness, right?
For funsies, here is Matt Cooke getting destroyed by Dustin Brown.
Listen Closely, and you can hear Sean Avery yell "How's your fuckin head Cookie?"
Monday, November 19, 2007
Sunday, November 18, 2007
#20...The Unusual Suspects
The news came down as far as the extent of Mikko Koivu's time on the shelf, and with the indefinite hiatus of Wes Walz, that left Minnesota with three healthy centers- Eric Belanger, Dominic Moore, and James Sheppard. Koivu, without a doubt, has been the best player for the Wild all season, and even with a healthy Marian Gaborik, Brian Rolston, and Pierre-Marc Bouchard in the lineup, someone was going to have to step up.
Aaron Voros and Matt Foy...again?
The two hulking wingers, along with Sheppard, teamed up for the first two goals of the game, and a total of five points on the night. Voros scored a nifty goal from the crease late in the first (nice touch to roof it from about 18 inches out over Peter Budaj's leg), and was a constant physical presence. Despite the appearance, he certainly doesn't play like Mike Modano, although if he keeps scoring goals (he got his first in Vancouver in front of his hometown fans), he may draw more comparisons. The whole line of "kids" were clicking, and were one of the better lines out on the ice the entire night. This was Sheppard's first multi-point game of his career, with two helpers.
Brent Burns also scored a goal for the second consecutive game- giving him six on the year, at the 20 game mark of the season. He scored a career high 7 last year, and he looks like he will eclipse the scoring record for defensemen in the short history of the Wild. But not to be overlooked was Josh Harding tonight- The kid gets yanked after 12 minutes Friday night, only to give up one (fluky) goal tonight in a supreme effort.
Back to Voros- he is going to make it real tough to be sent back to Houston with his play. Two goals in four games, a fight, constantly hitting people, and providing that same sort of police role for the skill guys; except Voros is apt to take a more regular shift than Derek Boogaard. It'll be interesting to see what happens when (if?) everyone gets healthy. Considering at one point he thought he might die, its great to see Aaron Voros succeed here in Minnesota.
The Mattias Ohlund-less Vancouver Canucks are next up on the rocket docket. Should make for a great Thanksgiving appetizer.
Aaron Voros and Matt Foy...again?
The two hulking wingers, along with Sheppard, teamed up for the first two goals of the game, and a total of five points on the night. Voros scored a nifty goal from the crease late in the first (nice touch to roof it from about 18 inches out over Peter Budaj's leg), and was a constant physical presence. Despite the appearance, he certainly doesn't play like Mike Modano, although if he keeps scoring goals (he got his first in Vancouver in front of his hometown fans), he may draw more comparisons. The whole line of "kids" were clicking, and were one of the better lines out on the ice the entire night. This was Sheppard's first multi-point game of his career, with two helpers.
Brent Burns also scored a goal for the second consecutive game- giving him six on the year, at the 20 game mark of the season. He scored a career high 7 last year, and he looks like he will eclipse the scoring record for defensemen in the short history of the Wild. But not to be overlooked was Josh Harding tonight- The kid gets yanked after 12 minutes Friday night, only to give up one (fluky) goal tonight in a supreme effort.
Back to Voros- he is going to make it real tough to be sent back to Houston with his play. Two goals in four games, a fight, constantly hitting people, and providing that same sort of police role for the skill guys; except Voros is apt to take a more regular shift than Derek Boogaard. It'll be interesting to see what happens when (if?) everyone gets healthy. Considering at one point he thought he might die, its great to see Aaron Voros succeed here in Minnesota.
The Mattias Ohlund-less Vancouver Canucks are next up on the rocket docket. Should make for a great Thanksgiving appetizer.
Fresh off the Wire
http://www.tsn.ca/nhl/news_story/?ID=223181&hubname=
Ohlund gets four games for the slash on Koivu. He's still gonna be a marked man the remaining 6 games of the Minnesota/Vancouver season series.
Ohlund gets four games for the slash on Koivu. He's still gonna be a marked man the remaining 6 games of the Minnesota/Vancouver season series.
Building the Perfect Villain
Remember how I posted this Derek Boogaard quote?
"Maybe I can go and check Naslund or those Pinky and the Brain twins."
The same quote from here:
http://hockeyadventure.com/2007/11/17/boogaard-blasts-canucks-after-ohlunds-slash-on-koivu/
and here (later in the podcast):
http://downloads.wild.nhl.com/podcasts/PONDCAST_588_POSTGAME.MP3
Well, this is what the Vancouver Sun reported...
http://www.canada.com/vancouversun/news/sports/story.html?id=b28ad758-f618-47e1-b020-ef64ea631588
"Maybe I go out and slash [Markus] Naslund or Pinky and the Brain twins."
Gotta love it. You can't make this stuff up.
"Maybe I can go and check Naslund or those Pinky and the Brain twins."
The same quote from here:
http://hockeyadventure.com/2007/11/17/boogaard-blasts-canucks-after-ohlunds-slash-on-koivu/
and here (later in the podcast):
http://downloads.wild.nhl.com/podcasts/PONDCAST_588_POSTGAME.MP3
Well, this is what the Vancouver Sun reported...
http://www.canada.com/vancouversun/news/sports/story.html?id=b28ad758-f618-47e1-b020-ef64ea631588
"Maybe I go out and slash [Markus] Naslund or Pinky and the Brain twins."
Gotta love it. You can't make this stuff up.
Calm down now...its Reverse Jersey day.
http://wild.nhl.com/team/app/?service=page&page=NewsPage&articleid=343512
Wow, what a riveting and original way to get the fanbase involved! Lets hand out little towels too!
I'm sorry, but this is bunk. In fact, there is a sort of mundane element when it comes to games at the X. Don't get me wrong, its a great venue to watch hockey, but there is very much a PG decorum to it, which in turn can makes for some stagnant atmosphere. I get that its desired to make it family friendly (ticket prices tell me otherwise), but I would like to see more rowdiness from the crowd. More chanting, just more you know? That same sort of apathy toward the rowdy even has me looking the face-painted "fans of the game" and going "schmuck." I don't get it. Obviously the atmosphere at Mariucci is alcohol and collegiate pride driven- but still, when you are there you feel involved as a fan whereas at the X there is a certain level of detachment.
I do like that they are doing something like reverse jersey day; but I think they can extend that sort of fan participation even further. The more the fans are encourage to be apart of something, the better the atmosphere will become.
How bout Random Jersey Night?
70's night?
Cross Promotions with the Vikings, Twins, and Timberwolves?
Since we usually play before or around Halloween, what if the Wild does what the Seattle Thunderbirds of the WHL do, and make custom one-off jerseys (like the ones above) for the game, then auction them off for charity? Who wouldn't want an autographed Derek Boogaard Wild Halloween Jersey?
Hell, St. Patty's Day in St. Paul is huge! Why not some Irish-Themed madness like Wilkes-Barre/Scranton has done: http://0607.wbspenguins.com/jersey%20history/default.asp
The possibilities are limitless, its just a matter of Minnesota getting in touch with their fans.
Wow, what a riveting and original way to get the fanbase involved! Lets hand out little towels too!
I'm sorry, but this is bunk. In fact, there is a sort of mundane element when it comes to games at the X. Don't get me wrong, its a great venue to watch hockey, but there is very much a PG decorum to it, which in turn can makes for some stagnant atmosphere. I get that its desired to make it family friendly (ticket prices tell me otherwise), but I would like to see more rowdiness from the crowd. More chanting, just more you know? That same sort of apathy toward the rowdy even has me looking the face-painted "fans of the game" and going "schmuck." I don't get it. Obviously the atmosphere at Mariucci is alcohol and collegiate pride driven- but still, when you are there you feel involved as a fan whereas at the X there is a certain level of detachment.
I do like that they are doing something like reverse jersey day; but I think they can extend that sort of fan participation even further. The more the fans are encourage to be apart of something, the better the atmosphere will become.
How bout Random Jersey Night?
70's night?
Cross Promotions with the Vikings, Twins, and Timberwolves?
Since we usually play before or around Halloween, what if the Wild does what the Seattle Thunderbirds of the WHL do, and make custom one-off jerseys (like the ones above) for the game, then auction them off for charity? Who wouldn't want an autographed Derek Boogaard Wild Halloween Jersey?
Hell, St. Patty's Day in St. Paul is huge! Why not some Irish-Themed madness like Wilkes-Barre/Scranton has done: http://0607.wbspenguins.com/jersey%20history/default.asp
The possibilities are limitless, its just a matter of Minnesota getting in touch with their fans.
Sunday Morning Cup of Coffee
Here is the Mikko Koivu/Mattias Ohlund incident from Friday night. Obviously one doesn't condone Ohlund's action (or reaction), but a person, including the most rabid Wild fan, has to take into account that Koivu tried to hit Ohlund high with a shoulder/elbow, which led to the two-hander from the Vancouver defenseman.
Koivu was also assessed an elbowing minor, while Ohlund received an intent to injure misconduct, and was booted out of the game. The question remains, what will Ohlund's punishment be? He expressed remorse after the game, saying he "over reacted." It has now come out that Koivu suffered a cracked fibula, which sidelines him at least a week, possibly two, depending on how he heals. Should the extent of the injury undermine the extent of the punishment? I think the league, not wanting an incident fueled by retribution, retaliation, and get back, will keep Ohlund out of Wednesday's game at the Xcel Energy Center. On top of that, I would also presume that Head Czar of Discipline Colin Campbell will be present.
Don't be surprised if Marian Gaborik is also levied with a fine, for his late elbow on the Canucks' Ryan Kesler. He was issued a penalty, but this game-long battle could have been avoided, but the quality of reffing was very poor, in my opinion. I can understand the amount of frustration on Gaborik's side; Vancouver dominated from the drop of the puck, but Kesler was allowed to take runs without any penalty, and at one point, had Gaborik in a leg scissor and had a death grip on his stick as he was attempting to get out of the offensive zone: right in front of a zebra.
No Call.
Tone Set.
Minnesota is infuriated by Friday night- Derek Boogaard, who was run from behind by Alex Edler, which lead to his game misconduct penalty as he tried to fight Willie Mitchell, talked about it:
http://hockeyadventure.com/2007/11/17/boogaard-blasts-canucks-after-ohlunds-slash-on-koivu/
Classic quote there- "maybe I'll go out and check Naslund or the Pinky and the Brain Twins"...a reference to Markus Naslund and The Sedins. Gotta Love the cartoon allusions. Needless to say, Wednesday could be pretty entertaining. Hopefully its like this...
http://www.canada.com/topics/sports/sports/story.html?id=aecf5b19-7e46-4bc8-a738-38ca800d0eca
- As most of you know, I don't particularly care for Jim Souhan, or his daily column in the Strib. http://www.startribune.com/souhan/story/1548905.htm
From the 13th, Souhan writes this:
"We think of hockey players as hard-working, team-oriented athletes, and the Wild's Wes Walz fit the description.
But if there is no other explanation for his midseason departure from the Wild than his contemplation of retirement, then he quit on his teammates. We haven't excused other athletes for doing so; why would we excuse Walz?"
Well, lets put this shoe on the other foot. Lets say Mr. Souhan, that during the course of the year you step away for a hiatus, unsure of whether or not you want to write a rather nondescript column for a major newspaper anymore. Would you consider yourself a quitter? Especially considering your history of service for said news publication?My point being, its easy to bestow titles to others, but would you bestow the same label to yourself if you were in the same situation? I get that Walz is an athlete, and your job is to talk about athletes, but they are a human like you to. Sometimes we as a society forget that this is a case, whether it be about athletes, celebrities, et al. And maybe the most important facet is that there is more to life than sport.
- Sean Hill's suspension is now over, so expect him to start playing sooner than later. Finally some much needed grit on the back end.
Friday, November 16, 2007
#19........ICKY THUMPED
I'll keep this simple.
Not a good game.
Refs sucked big time. And I mean sucked a gigantic fucking donkey dick.
Mark Parrish never returned after the 2nd period.
Now Mattias Ohlund just two handed Mikko Koivu across the back of the leg, sending Koivu limping off the ice.
Boogaard getting run from behind.
Fluky fucking bounces.
And to top it off, we're treated to a highlight reel of Vancouver pests from years past. Lovely.
THIS IS JUST A HORSESHIT GAME, ON EVERY LEVEL.
Let's go home and get ready for Sunday.
Not a good game.
Refs sucked big time. And I mean sucked a gigantic fucking donkey dick.
Mark Parrish never returned after the 2nd period.
Now Mattias Ohlund just two handed Mikko Koivu across the back of the leg, sending Koivu limping off the ice.
Boogaard getting run from behind.
Fluky fucking bounces.
And to top it off, we're treated to a highlight reel of Vancouver pests from years past. Lovely.
THIS IS JUST A HORSESHIT GAME, ON EVERY LEVEL.
Let's go home and get ready for Sunday.
Hockey...on the NBC News?
and its a good, heart warming story?
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/3032619/
fun fact: Joe Juneau was picked by the Wild in the expansion draft, but was traded for Rickard Wallin, a swedish prospect who left the organization a few years ago. Juneau holds the rookie record for assists (70), got a degree in aeronautical engineering in three years from RPI (!), and according to legend, built his own airplane during the 1994 NHL player strike.
One of my favorite players of all-time.
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/3032619/
fun fact: Joe Juneau was picked by the Wild in the expansion draft, but was traded for Rickard Wallin, a swedish prospect who left the organization a few years ago. Juneau holds the rookie record for assists (70), got a degree in aeronautical engineering in three years from RPI (!), and according to legend, built his own airplane during the 1994 NHL player strike.
One of my favorite players of all-time.
#18...Royal Oil come on bubble and oil
...mind your mind or it will surely spoil.
I guess there is nothing better to bust a small slump than a game against Edmonton. The Wild win 4-2, but the game wasn't as convincing as the score would lead to believe. Nik Backstrom let in the 2 (very soft) goals, and was replaced for the third period by Josh Harding. Jarrett Stoll of Edmonton was responsible for both Oiler tallies, and all around was a pain in the ass- he almost singled handedly killed a few penalties, but on the same hand, there were times where the Wild power play looked positively JV.
Eric Belanger had 4 assists- while none were considered overly flashy or highlight reel-worthy, the cross-crease pass to Marian Gaborik for a tap-in was a thing of beauty however. Mark Parrish continues to score, which is not a surprise now that he is getting some serious ice time. Parrish is a legit goal scorer, and is too skilled to be toiling away in the third or fourth lines playing the energy role. He has begun to show a playmaking element to his game, and combined with the newfound hustle and PK time, Mark Parrish is rounding into a complete top six guy; which is needed since Pavol Demitra is laid up with an ailing groin (Thursday on KFAN Lou Nanne reported that Demitra has a small groin tear.)
My problem with the game is that Minnesota played down to Edmonton's level. The Wild, with or without Gaborik, is the superior team. However, there are too many occasions where the Oil is allowed to stay in the game, and at times the Wild end up on their heels. A win is still a win, but sometimes it isn't.
I guess there is nothing better to bust a small slump than a game against Edmonton. The Wild win 4-2, but the game wasn't as convincing as the score would lead to believe. Nik Backstrom let in the 2 (very soft) goals, and was replaced for the third period by Josh Harding. Jarrett Stoll of Edmonton was responsible for both Oiler tallies, and all around was a pain in the ass- he almost singled handedly killed a few penalties, but on the same hand, there were times where the Wild power play looked positively JV.
Eric Belanger had 4 assists- while none were considered overly flashy or highlight reel-worthy, the cross-crease pass to Marian Gaborik for a tap-in was a thing of beauty however. Mark Parrish continues to score, which is not a surprise now that he is getting some serious ice time. Parrish is a legit goal scorer, and is too skilled to be toiling away in the third or fourth lines playing the energy role. He has begun to show a playmaking element to his game, and combined with the newfound hustle and PK time, Mark Parrish is rounding into a complete top six guy; which is needed since Pavol Demitra is laid up with an ailing groin (Thursday on KFAN Lou Nanne reported that Demitra has a small groin tear.)
My problem with the game is that Minnesota played down to Edmonton's level. The Wild, with or without Gaborik, is the superior team. However, there are too many occasions where the Oil is allowed to stay in the game, and at times the Wild end up on their heels. A win is still a win, but sometimes it isn't.
Thursday, November 15, 2007
The momentum begins to gain
I mentioned about the New York Islanders becoming blogger-friendly; The trend continues...
http://www.csmonitor.com/2007/1116/p12s01-alsp.html
http://www.csmonitor.com/2007/1116/p12s01-alsp.html
A Public Apology
Heartfelt...probably from somewhere deep in the heart, kind of around the cockles region.
http://www2.sportsnet.ca/video/latest/20071115_Fantasy_Hockey
http://www2.sportsnet.ca/video/latest/20071115_Fantasy_Hockey
Tuesday, November 13, 2007
#17...What Can You Do?
Big sigh...What can a team do when you get a flukey-ass goal like Jarome Iginla's game tying tally; or when Brent Burns deflects a pass, and Kristian Huselius swats it off the bounce and through Nik Backstrom's (poorly positioned) legs?
Just when I said that Mikko Koivu was determined to win the game by himself...
Another loss at the Saddledome, while this one isn't as bad a debacle as the previous game, but this one is more frustrating, it stings a little harder, because it was a matter of the bounces- don't misconstrue it like Minnesota played a flawless game, that every pass was tape-to-tape, no defensive breakdowns, no prolonged sequences struggling to move the puck up ice, no non-interference calls, none of that. The Wild more of less weathered a storm until Koivu's first goal early in the third period, and one could tell that the head of steam was forming, and then Koivu scored again, and then came some wackass pinball deflection that tied the game.
And the wind was out of the sails.
What can you do?
Briefly:
-No Keith Carney after his hooking penalty in the 1st period. Ouch.
-I'm lovin Aaron Voros, there is a certain entertainment factor associated with his shifts.
-Die Phaneuf. That is all.
-The Greenlay vs. Gorg bit on FSN is terrible. Like my roommate said, its like they flip a coin as to who takes sides; I know its got a cheeseball entertainment factor to it, but still...I'd rather see Marney Gellner for 3 more minutes than listen to those two "argue" about whether or not Eric Lindros is Hall of Fame worthy (he is fyi, if Cam Neely, who has very comparable stats is in the Hall, than one could justify Lindros- on the flipside, Dino Ciccerelli is sitting with over 600 goals and he has yet to be elected, so who knows.)
Frustrating. Bring on Edmonton.
Just when I said that Mikko Koivu was determined to win the game by himself...
Another loss at the Saddledome, while this one isn't as bad a debacle as the previous game, but this one is more frustrating, it stings a little harder, because it was a matter of the bounces- don't misconstrue it like Minnesota played a flawless game, that every pass was tape-to-tape, no defensive breakdowns, no prolonged sequences struggling to move the puck up ice, no non-interference calls, none of that. The Wild more of less weathered a storm until Koivu's first goal early in the third period, and one could tell that the head of steam was forming, and then Koivu scored again, and then came some wackass pinball deflection that tied the game.
And the wind was out of the sails.
What can you do?
Briefly:
-No Keith Carney after his hooking penalty in the 1st period. Ouch.
-I'm lovin Aaron Voros, there is a certain entertainment factor associated with his shifts.
-Die Phaneuf. That is all.
-The Greenlay vs. Gorg bit on FSN is terrible. Like my roommate said, its like they flip a coin as to who takes sides; I know its got a cheeseball entertainment factor to it, but still...I'd rather see Marney Gellner for 3 more minutes than listen to those two "argue" about whether or not Eric Lindros is Hall of Fame worthy (he is fyi, if Cam Neely, who has very comparable stats is in the Hall, than one could justify Lindros- on the flipside, Dino Ciccerelli is sitting with over 600 goals and he has yet to be elected, so who knows.)
Frustrating. Bring on Edmonton.
Top 10 American Hockey Players...
...According to David Amber, at ESPN.com
http://sports.espn.go.com/nhl/columns/story?columnist=amber_david&id=3108189&campaign=rss&source=NHLHeadlines
http://sports.espn.go.com/nhl/columns/story?columnist=amber_david&id=3108189&campaign=rss&source=NHLHeadlines
Monday, November 12, 2007
Optimists say...
...that the cold war is over.
I think that they may have jumped the gun- here is a little scuttlebutt from the Under-17 Four Nations Cup between the Yankees and the Ruskies.
http://www.online-translator.com/url/tran_url.asp?lang=en&direction=re&template=General&transliterate=&autotranslate=on&url=http://www.dmitrovtv.ru/ru/news/324.html
I think that they may have jumped the gun- here is a little scuttlebutt from the Under-17 Four Nations Cup between the Yankees and the Ruskies.
http://www.online-translator.com/url/tran_url.asp?lang=en&direction=re&template=General&transliterate=&autotranslate=on&url=http://www.dmitrovtv.ru/ru/news/324.html
#16...Le System D(less)
In the book I am reading (well, on and off), Chef Anthony Bourdain talks about the mythical "System D" in regards to working in a kitchen. D as in debrouillard, which is french for being resourceful, and or adaptable to circumstances. If you need a visual aid, think about those episodes of Macgyver stopping bombs with hockey tickets and chewing gum; making flame throwers from prosthetic limbs and pencil shavings, etc. That is a debrouillard to a tee.
Now, in a moment of honesty, most of my focus last night wasn't on the game- I must confess that I am sort of a Food Network junkie, and last night was also the finale for "The Next Iron Chef", a reality show/competition to see which one of eight chefs was to be anointed to the "pantheon of culinary excellence." And really at this point, I think Iron Chef America is much more riveting than our very own Minnesota Vikings.
To make a long story longer, I maybe caught around half of the game...and it was awfully similar to the last game the Wild played in Denver. Again Minnesota was missing some key components; Marian Gaborik (only feeling 85%), Pavol Demitra (still in Minnesota receiving treatment), and in a freak accident, Stephane Veilleux. Veilleux was hit by a puck at practice Saturday, which broke his cheekbone. Eager to get back, he said he considers himself "day to day", which means he could just throw on a cage, but Lemaire and Co. won't give a time table until the swelling subsides. The feisty redhead has seen his ice time increase greatly over the past few games, and he has scored twice in the past four- he has begun to make an impact when he is out on the sheet, whether it be from a strong forecheck, a shot on goal, a hit, a prolonged cycle in corner, etc., so without that contribution out of the lineup, it makes Minnesota even more shorthanded.
Enter Aaron Voros. Voros was a late post-trade deadline acquisition last year (you can make trades after the official deadline, as long as it doesn't include roster players), and made a splash in training camp with huge doses of physicality, which drew the ire of Keith Carney and Veilleux at various points. With that in mind, you can imagine thats the role Voros would play- Coach Lemaire singled him out for his play, along with Matt Foy (!) last night. Now, what does that say when your best player on the ice is Matt Foy?
Where the whole "System D" bit comes in is this: The Wild simply can't adapt to being without Gaborik in the lineup. As the cards play out, it is becoming apparent that Minnesota is a mediocre team without the talented Slovak, and without the resourcefulness and ability to adapt, they will continue to essentially flounder like the past few games. Perhaps its time to break up the BBR line- its so easy to key in on them with the top checking line of the opponent, well what happens if Bouchard is the other winger to Mikko Koivu and Branko Radivojevic? Belanger and Rolston with Mark Parrish? Rolston with James Sheppard and Petteri Nummelin?
The D has to play better- Martin Skoula was terrible (except in his own mind), and Lemaire is trying to figure something out, and now with Petteri Nummelin being moved to the wing, Sean Hill's return is more important. Hill is rugged, and more importantly brings depth- meaning whoever plays like shit the game before sits in the press box.
The bottom line is, you gotta do what you gotta do to win these games that are on the horizon- divisional games on the road.
Now, in a moment of honesty, most of my focus last night wasn't on the game- I must confess that I am sort of a Food Network junkie, and last night was also the finale for "The Next Iron Chef", a reality show/competition to see which one of eight chefs was to be anointed to the "pantheon of culinary excellence." And really at this point, I think Iron Chef America is much more riveting than our very own Minnesota Vikings.
To make a long story longer, I maybe caught around half of the game...and it was awfully similar to the last game the Wild played in Denver. Again Minnesota was missing some key components; Marian Gaborik (only feeling 85%), Pavol Demitra (still in Minnesota receiving treatment), and in a freak accident, Stephane Veilleux. Veilleux was hit by a puck at practice Saturday, which broke his cheekbone. Eager to get back, he said he considers himself "day to day", which means he could just throw on a cage, but Lemaire and Co. won't give a time table until the swelling subsides. The feisty redhead has seen his ice time increase greatly over the past few games, and he has scored twice in the past four- he has begun to make an impact when he is out on the sheet, whether it be from a strong forecheck, a shot on goal, a hit, a prolonged cycle in corner, etc., so without that contribution out of the lineup, it makes Minnesota even more shorthanded.
Enter Aaron Voros. Voros was a late post-trade deadline acquisition last year (you can make trades after the official deadline, as long as it doesn't include roster players), and made a splash in training camp with huge doses of physicality, which drew the ire of Keith Carney and Veilleux at various points. With that in mind, you can imagine thats the role Voros would play- Coach Lemaire singled him out for his play, along with Matt Foy (!) last night. Now, what does that say when your best player on the ice is Matt Foy?
Where the whole "System D" bit comes in is this: The Wild simply can't adapt to being without Gaborik in the lineup. As the cards play out, it is becoming apparent that Minnesota is a mediocre team without the talented Slovak, and without the resourcefulness and ability to adapt, they will continue to essentially flounder like the past few games. Perhaps its time to break up the BBR line- its so easy to key in on them with the top checking line of the opponent, well what happens if Bouchard is the other winger to Mikko Koivu and Branko Radivojevic? Belanger and Rolston with Mark Parrish? Rolston with James Sheppard and Petteri Nummelin?
The D has to play better- Martin Skoula was terrible (except in his own mind), and Lemaire is trying to figure something out, and now with Petteri Nummelin being moved to the wing, Sean Hill's return is more important. Hill is rugged, and more importantly brings depth- meaning whoever plays like shit the game before sits in the press box.
The bottom line is, you gotta do what you gotta do to win these games that are on the horizon- divisional games on the road.
Thursday, November 8, 2007
Congrats are in order
Congratulations to Mike Modano for scoring twice last night to tie, and then surpass Phil Housley as the top American Scorer in NHL history. And it seems like just yesterday when the then 18 year old Modano was signing autographs at the Brueggers in Burnsville...I am sure I got that autograph somewhere.
Minnesota's Official Statement on Wes Walz
“Wes Walz has requested and been granted an indefinite leave of absence from the team. We have no further details at this time.”
They will not suspend him, and continue to pay him his $900,000 salary, although he has been removed from the roster. At least the organization gets points for still paying the guy (I do say Wes does deserve it, considering how he has been of service to the club), which is good from a PR perspective.
Perhaps the Vikings should take note; it has come to light that while Troy Williamson was home for a death in the family last week, the Vikes docked his pay- something like $25,000. Real nice fellas.
They will not suspend him, and continue to pay him his $900,000 salary, although he has been removed from the roster. At least the organization gets points for still paying the guy (I do say Wes does deserve it, considering how he has been of service to the club), which is good from a PR perspective.
Perhaps the Vikings should take note; it has come to light that while Troy Williamson was home for a death in the family last week, the Vikes docked his pay- something like $25,000. Real nice fellas.
This one is for you Ms. Blount...
...this is why Derek Boogaard had his little fight camp in Canada. This is from a Halifax Wolverines game (junior A league) recently.
http://vidego.multicastmedia.com/player.php?p=am944j58
http://vidego.multicastmedia.com/player.php?p=am944j58
Tuesday, November 6, 2007
A glimpse at the future
This right here is Steven Stamkos, who at the moment (I say at the moment because draft-eligible rankings vary from source to source, and can change drastically pretty much at any second) is the top ranked draft eligible player for the 2008 draft. Stamkos had 92 points in 68 games last year for the Sarnia Sting (who picked Stamkos first overall in the Ontario Hockey League draft), and is continuing his scoring this season.
From the rankings I've seen so far, almost 20 of the top 30 ranked players are defensemen.
Scramble on
Ya, so since Minnesota doesn't play until Sunday in Denver, I'll just kinda scramble to keep the entertainment level high.
- First thing of note, and to completely put my "extended cup of coffee" theory in the shitter, Benoit Pouliot was assigned back to Houston today, which means Dominic Moore is healthy enough to play again. Can you say "showcasing for a trade"?
- No word on the Wes Walz front, and according to Assistant GM Tom Lynn, he won't be suspended.
- Brian Rolston, Marian Gaborik, and Niklas Backstrom are the only names from Minnesota on the All-Star Ballot. Horseshit.
- First thing of note, and to completely put my "extended cup of coffee" theory in the shitter, Benoit Pouliot was assigned back to Houston today, which means Dominic Moore is healthy enough to play again. Can you say "showcasing for a trade"?
- No word on the Wes Walz front, and according to Assistant GM Tom Lynn, he won't be suspended.
- Brian Rolston, Marian Gaborik, and Niklas Backstrom are the only names from Minnesota on the All-Star Ballot. Horseshit.
Monday, November 5, 2007
#15...like a walk in the park
5 goals, four of which were on the power play...Petteri Nummelin on the wing?
What the hell is going on?
Basically it was a good ole ass whooping, with Minnesota taking it right to Edmonton. Five Wild players had multi-point games, with Mikko Koivu leading the charge with 3 assists. Marian Gaborik and Pavol Demitra were scratched (again), but it didn't seem to matter. Oiler goalie Dwayne Roloson (who looked like he ought to be on suicide watch after he got pulled after the first period) got yanked after letting in three power play goals in the first period (altogether Edmonton had 10 penalties on the night), and backup Mathieu Garon still was victimized for two more.
I have to say the forecheck was very good again; especially Stephane Veilleux (good to see him get a goal for his efforts), Branko Radivojevic, and Mark Parrish. Parrish had two goals, the first being a beauty from a fantastic pass from Petteri Nummelin, but was hustling hard, and was even seen out there killing penalties toward the end of the game. Veilleux and Radivojevic, coupled with Koivu, have been very effective the past few games; creating energy, forechecking, even scoring goals, and shutting down the top lines of the opposition.
Nummelin looked, I have to admit, pretty good on the wing. Its an experiment that may get some very good results- however, it must be noted that in his first stint in the NHL, with Columbus, he was moved from D to the wing, and went to Switzerland after that.
Maybe its nothing, but I saw very little of Benoit Pouliot in the third period, which considering the score I would have thought he would have gotten a regular shift. Even Matt Foy saw more ice time. Maybe its an injury, maybe its nothing...
So what's next? Five days of rest. Ya, that's right, five days before the next game. We should see alot of things play out though; the groins of the Slovaks, and the Wes Walz impasse. But for now, tonight was just like a walk in the park.
What the hell is going on?
Basically it was a good ole ass whooping, with Minnesota taking it right to Edmonton. Five Wild players had multi-point games, with Mikko Koivu leading the charge with 3 assists. Marian Gaborik and Pavol Demitra were scratched (again), but it didn't seem to matter. Oiler goalie Dwayne Roloson (who looked like he ought to be on suicide watch after he got pulled after the first period) got yanked after letting in three power play goals in the first period (altogether Edmonton had 10 penalties on the night), and backup Mathieu Garon still was victimized for two more.
I have to say the forecheck was very good again; especially Stephane Veilleux (good to see him get a goal for his efforts), Branko Radivojevic, and Mark Parrish. Parrish had two goals, the first being a beauty from a fantastic pass from Petteri Nummelin, but was hustling hard, and was even seen out there killing penalties toward the end of the game. Veilleux and Radivojevic, coupled with Koivu, have been very effective the past few games; creating energy, forechecking, even scoring goals, and shutting down the top lines of the opposition.
Nummelin looked, I have to admit, pretty good on the wing. Its an experiment that may get some very good results- however, it must be noted that in his first stint in the NHL, with Columbus, he was moved from D to the wing, and went to Switzerland after that.
Maybe its nothing, but I saw very little of Benoit Pouliot in the third period, which considering the score I would have thought he would have gotten a regular shift. Even Matt Foy saw more ice time. Maybe its an injury, maybe its nothing...
So what's next? Five days of rest. Ya, that's right, five days before the next game. We should see alot of things play out though; the groins of the Slovaks, and the Wes Walz impasse. But for now, tonight was just like a walk in the park.
Y a I don't know.
I think Damien Cox is either on to something, or just plain on something here.
http://sports.espn.go.com/nhl/columns/story?columnist=cox_damien&id=3088614
http://sports.espn.go.com/nhl/columns/story?columnist=cox_damien&id=3088614
Hold Up
I feel bad about my last post. Not so much in what I did write, but what I didn't. I had this notion come to me, and considering the logjam at center, and also the need for development of youth, I felt it was logical, but I couldn't write it down- now I do stand by my stance of Dominic Moore being expendable, and that the underlying desire to also bring Benoit Pouliot along by the Wild Brass and Coach Jacques Lemaire. I can't explain why I didn't