http://slapshot.blogs.nytimes.com/2007/12/31/the-nhl-and-the-search-for-meaning/
I do agree with where this guy is coming from, and in fact this isn't the first time I have heard grumblings about something like this; Bob Valvano on ESPN Radio devoted an entire show to how Leagues like the NHL, or NBA could spice up the regular season schedule and make it so more games have meaning to them. Bobby V used an "Original 6 Tournament" as an example, where the Original 6 (Detroit, Chicago, New York, Boston, Montreal, and Toronto) and two different teams every year face off for a Trophy or a Cup. Valvano and guest Barry Melrose also agreed that the Outdoor Game (The Heritage Classic?) was a good idea for the NHL, as long as it was executed well to the point where it wasn't a gimmick.
Monday, December 31, 2007
Resolutions, Resolutions
I felt it was necessary to do some New Year's Resolutions for Your Minnesota Wild...
Eric Belanger: To continue to have a career season, and emerge as the fiery leader the Wild lost when Wes Walz retired.
Pierre-Marc Bouchard: To be more consistent. You disappear for couple-game-long stretches Butch.
Brian Rolston: to shot more, and not use the slapshot exclusively.
Mikko Koivu: to return from that dastardly leg injury as even more of an emerging force you were before the run-in with Mattias Ohlund. Mikko Mouse was dominant, and may he return as such.
Marian Gaborik: to play like you did in the third period of the Edmonton game, and occasionally like you did against New York.
Pavol Demitra: to play like you warrant being resigned by Minnesota.
Mark Parrish: to continue working hard because you are a top 6 guy playing an energy role.
Aaron Voros: Keep on doin what your doing. A 7th round pick for you is a major steal.
James Sheppard: to keep learning, because you are starting to "get it" at the NHL level.
Todd Fedoruk: to not fight, because your face might literally explode.
Matt Foy: to go somewhere just to be able to play.
Derek Boogaard: To keep on refraining doing the things that everyone else does, but you get targeted like you are the repeat offender.
NHL Referees: to stop targeting Boogaard.
Dominic Moore, Stephane Veilleux: keep bringing energy to the ice every night, and remaining pesky to the top lines you are assigned to check.
Branko Radivojevic: keep up with the aforementioned, otherwise you're on the chopping block.
Petteri Nummelin: to go back to Europe after this season.
Sean Hill: to keep playing smash mouth hockey, and leave the roids alone.
Brent Burns: to play more physical, which can make him even more dominant on the blueline.
Nick Schultz: RESIGN HIM TO A LONG TERM DEAL!
Kimmy Johnsson: to play like he did when he was a Flyer, using his skating and puck moving ability even more than he does now.
Kurtis Foster: To hit more, although it probably doesn't matter at this point.
Keith Carney: To get into the every night lineup, because a veteran like you doesn't deserve to sit over someone like Petey Nummelin.
Martin Skoula: to remain invisible, cuz when you are visible, it means you fucked up somehow.
Nik Backstrom: to work to regain the form from last year, although you aren't far off.
Josh Harding: to forget about the Dallas game, it could have been worse.
To Wild Nation: to keep faith in a team who is currently a Jekyll and Hyde club on the ice.
Eric Belanger: To continue to have a career season, and emerge as the fiery leader the Wild lost when Wes Walz retired.
Pierre-Marc Bouchard: To be more consistent. You disappear for couple-game-long stretches Butch.
Brian Rolston: to shot more, and not use the slapshot exclusively.
Mikko Koivu: to return from that dastardly leg injury as even more of an emerging force you were before the run-in with Mattias Ohlund. Mikko Mouse was dominant, and may he return as such.
Marian Gaborik: to play like you did in the third period of the Edmonton game, and occasionally like you did against New York.
Pavol Demitra: to play like you warrant being resigned by Minnesota.
Mark Parrish: to continue working hard because you are a top 6 guy playing an energy role.
Aaron Voros: Keep on doin what your doing. A 7th round pick for you is a major steal.
James Sheppard: to keep learning, because you are starting to "get it" at the NHL level.
Todd Fedoruk: to not fight, because your face might literally explode.
Matt Foy: to go somewhere just to be able to play.
Derek Boogaard: To keep on refraining doing the things that everyone else does, but you get targeted like you are the repeat offender.
NHL Referees: to stop targeting Boogaard.
Dominic Moore, Stephane Veilleux: keep bringing energy to the ice every night, and remaining pesky to the top lines you are assigned to check.
Branko Radivojevic: keep up with the aforementioned, otherwise you're on the chopping block.
Petteri Nummelin: to go back to Europe after this season.
Sean Hill: to keep playing smash mouth hockey, and leave the roids alone.
Brent Burns: to play more physical, which can make him even more dominant on the blueline.
Nick Schultz: RESIGN HIM TO A LONG TERM DEAL!
Kimmy Johnsson: to play like he did when he was a Flyer, using his skating and puck moving ability even more than he does now.
Kurtis Foster: To hit more, although it probably doesn't matter at this point.
Keith Carney: To get into the every night lineup, because a veteran like you doesn't deserve to sit over someone like Petey Nummelin.
Martin Skoula: to remain invisible, cuz when you are visible, it means you fucked up somehow.
Nik Backstrom: to work to regain the form from last year, although you aren't far off.
Josh Harding: to forget about the Dallas game, it could have been worse.
To Wild Nation: to keep faith in a team who is currently a Jekyll and Hyde club on the ice.
On the eve (of destruction?)....
...I'd like to wish you and yours a Happy New Year, and may '08 be better than '07 for all of us.
Let's take this blog to the top baby!
Let's take this blog to the top baby!
Sunday, December 30, 2007
#38...Rope A Dope
For a period and a half the Wild were ducking, weaving, absorbing blows, up against the ropes, trying to weather the storm.
Remember Muhammed Ali, and George Foreman, and The Rumble In The Jungle?
Well, last night it was the Minnesota Wild, The Edmonton Oilers, and the Divisional Showdown at the X.
The Oilers came out firing; they peppered Nik Backstrom, they foiled the Wild Power Play at will, including two short handed goals. To be honest, it wasn't very pretty, and things didn't look at that promising when the Oil went up 4-1.
Cue the "Rocky" theme...
Jacques Lemaire altered the lines; Brian Rolston and Pierre Marc Bouchard where now centered by Pavol Demitra. Mark Parrish and Marian Gaborik became Eric Belanger's wingers. The tide started to shift after Brian Rolston converted Demitra's little feed from behind the net late the in the 2nd; the snowball got bigger when Marian Gaborik (who has been awful since his 5 goal night against New York), scored early in the 3rd, a period where he was absolutely flying around the rink, including the rush in overtime which caused Oiler Defenseman Steve Staios to hook him and give Minnesota a power play, which led to Petteri Nummelin's game-winning goal.
Just like that, a 3 goal deficit turns into an overtime victory.
-The new line combos were very effective, but it goes deeper than that; The Moore line was good again, and I thought James Sheppard (his best game in a long while) and Todd Fedoruk were also very good.
-Let's give credit where credit is due; that was a hell of a play by Sean Hill to dive and keep the puck in the Edmonton zone on the sequence that led to Rolston's goal. Nummelin also made a great play to retain possession along the Edmonton blueline which was a precursor to Gaborik's goal.
Now the real test is San Jose on New Year's Eve...will the disturbing trend continue where the Wild fail to show up against the Upper Echelon?
Remember Muhammed Ali, and George Foreman, and The Rumble In The Jungle?
Well, last night it was the Minnesota Wild, The Edmonton Oilers, and the Divisional Showdown at the X.
The Oilers came out firing; they peppered Nik Backstrom, they foiled the Wild Power Play at will, including two short handed goals. To be honest, it wasn't very pretty, and things didn't look at that promising when the Oil went up 4-1.
Cue the "Rocky" theme...
Jacques Lemaire altered the lines; Brian Rolston and Pierre Marc Bouchard where now centered by Pavol Demitra. Mark Parrish and Marian Gaborik became Eric Belanger's wingers. The tide started to shift after Brian Rolston converted Demitra's little feed from behind the net late the in the 2nd; the snowball got bigger when Marian Gaborik (who has been awful since his 5 goal night against New York), scored early in the 3rd, a period where he was absolutely flying around the rink, including the rush in overtime which caused Oiler Defenseman Steve Staios to hook him and give Minnesota a power play, which led to Petteri Nummelin's game-winning goal.
Just like that, a 3 goal deficit turns into an overtime victory.
-The new line combos were very effective, but it goes deeper than that; The Moore line was good again, and I thought James Sheppard (his best game in a long while) and Todd Fedoruk were also very good.
-Let's give credit where credit is due; that was a hell of a play by Sean Hill to dive and keep the puck in the Edmonton zone on the sequence that led to Rolston's goal. Nummelin also made a great play to retain possession along the Edmonton blueline which was a precursor to Gaborik's goal.
Now the real test is San Jose on New Year's Eve...will the disturbing trend continue where the Wild fail to show up against the Upper Echelon?
#37...Bouncing Around the Room
Despite the horrendous outing the night before, the Minnesota Wild continued to remain incredibly proficient in the tail end of back-to-back games, surviving a Phoenix onslaught to win Thursday night. Niklas Backstrom, who is 6-0 lifetime against the Desert Dogs, stopped 46 of 48 Phoenix shots (!), and at times stood on his head. And after such a lowly shot total in Dallas, Minnesota was determined to fire the puck; Eric Belanger even scored from below the Phoenix goal line. Belanger had a goal and two helpers; Brent Burns had two assists also, which pushes the defenseman even closer to career high totals, and Wild club records.
So what do we, as Wild Nation, take from a game like Thursday night in Phoenix? After getting thoroughly bitch-slapped in Dallas, the squad goes to Phoenix and beats a Coyotes team that a.) is in the middle of a youth movement, a growing pains type scenario (although getting Ilya Bryzgalov for nothing was a complete steal), and b.) Phoenix has a terrible home record.
So Minnesota, after getting their ass kicked the night before by one of the Western Conference's elite, went out the next night and beat a team they should beat. So, is it that much of a feel-good, "bounce back" game when on paper, and on the ice, they beat a team that they should 9 out of 10 times? And, it takes your goaltender making 46 saves to do so? How does that make us fans feel good, when it takes 46 saves to win against a team like Phoenix?
So what do we, as Wild Nation, take from a game like Thursday night in Phoenix? After getting thoroughly bitch-slapped in Dallas, the squad goes to Phoenix and beats a Coyotes team that a.) is in the middle of a youth movement, a growing pains type scenario (although getting Ilya Bryzgalov for nothing was a complete steal), and b.) Phoenix has a terrible home record.
So Minnesota, after getting their ass kicked the night before by one of the Western Conference's elite, went out the next night and beat a team they should beat. So, is it that much of a feel-good, "bounce back" game when on paper, and on the ice, they beat a team that they should 9 out of 10 times? And, it takes your goaltender making 46 saves to do so? How does that make us fans feel good, when it takes 46 saves to win against a team like Phoenix?
Thursday, December 27, 2007
#36...Dennis Green
Eight goals. 8! And it could have been a whole lot worse, if Josh Harding didn't make a few really nice saves, or if there weren't Minnesota players in the right position (a rarity last night) to clear the puck from the crease.
The 8-3 loss to Dallas shed some more light as to what kind of hockey team the Wild is. I, and many other people, can't wrap their heads around that they have still won 8 of their past 13, but the losses, which have come against the elite in the Western Conference, have been, well, humiliating. Detroit stomped on them twice in the past two weeks, San Jose beat them mercilessly, and even the reigning bullies in the East Philadelphia worked them over.
Yes, they do beat the inferior teams on a regular basis, which is what you are supposed to do. You are also then expected to at least compete with the upper echelon squads too, and get some victories. Well, when that doesn't happen and there is such a huge disparity like that, then it makes one mediocre.
Satisfactory.
Middle of the Road.
Average.
I don't get it- Coach Jacques Lemaire runs a tight ship, and last night was as chaotic and unorganized as it got. Terrible line changes, blatant puck giveaways, and all around uninspired play only resulted in 17 shots on Marty Turco, who was fighting the puck all night. When you score goals like Pavol Demitra did, there needs to be more shots, period. In the postgame presser, Lemaire said the "only line worth a spit was Moore-Veilleux-Radivojevic", which isn't glowing praise for anyone else.
Marian Gaborik never showed up, and Brian Rolston didn't even manage a shot.
How can you expect to even compete when your top guys don't even show up? There is a chance for a minor moral victory tonight in Phoenix, and considering the Wild's past record against the Desert Dogs and nifty little record in back-to-backs, they have a legit chance to save face. At this point however, the underlying issue is how this team isn't what we think they are.
The 8-3 loss to Dallas shed some more light as to what kind of hockey team the Wild is. I, and many other people, can't wrap their heads around that they have still won 8 of their past 13, but the losses, which have come against the elite in the Western Conference, have been, well, humiliating. Detroit stomped on them twice in the past two weeks, San Jose beat them mercilessly, and even the reigning bullies in the East Philadelphia worked them over.
Yes, they do beat the inferior teams on a regular basis, which is what you are supposed to do. You are also then expected to at least compete with the upper echelon squads too, and get some victories. Well, when that doesn't happen and there is such a huge disparity like that, then it makes one mediocre.
Satisfactory.
Middle of the Road.
Average.
I don't get it- Coach Jacques Lemaire runs a tight ship, and last night was as chaotic and unorganized as it got. Terrible line changes, blatant puck giveaways, and all around uninspired play only resulted in 17 shots on Marty Turco, who was fighting the puck all night. When you score goals like Pavol Demitra did, there needs to be more shots, period. In the postgame presser, Lemaire said the "only line worth a spit was Moore-Veilleux-Radivojevic", which isn't glowing praise for anyone else.
Marian Gaborik never showed up, and Brian Rolston didn't even manage a shot.
How can you expect to even compete when your top guys don't even show up? There is a chance for a minor moral victory tonight in Phoenix, and considering the Wild's past record against the Desert Dogs and nifty little record in back-to-backs, they have a legit chance to save face. At this point however, the underlying issue is how this team isn't what we think they are.
Wednesday, December 26, 2007
Re: Colton Gillies
Remember how I was talking about how the kid could step into the Wild lineup sooner than later? The Wild could use some physicality like this.
Holiday Wishes from Deuce By Definition...
I'd like to thank the readership (like 6 of you, I think), and would like to also wish you and yours a Happy Holiday Season.
Noticed how I was politically correct right there? By saying Holiday Season?
Ya, that's as politically correct as it gets.
Noticed how I was politically correct right there? By saying Holiday Season?
Ya, that's as politically correct as it gets.
#35...Bottoming Out. Again.
There is a large portion of me that is glad I didn't watch the Debacle against Detroit Saturday night, considering even without Tomas Holmstrom and Henrik Zetterberg, the Red Wings still housed Minnesota.
So, since I don't really got a whole lot to say since I didn't see it, I'll use this space to plug Dudley Riggs' Brave New Workshop.
http://www.bravenewworkshop.org/index.php
Located near the Uptown Area in Minneapolis, my gal and I caught their show "Stuck In The Manger With You; or Carol On My Wayward Son", their Christmas-themed comedy show. This was very funny; in fact this was the second "production" I've attended, and I highly recommend it to anyone.
So, since I don't really got a whole lot to say since I didn't see it, I'll use this space to plug Dudley Riggs' Brave New Workshop.
http://www.bravenewworkshop.org/index.php
Located near the Uptown Area in Minneapolis, my gal and I caught their show "Stuck In The Manger With You; or Carol On My Wayward Son", their Christmas-themed comedy show. This was very funny; in fact this was the second "production" I've attended, and I highly recommend it to anyone.
Sunday, December 23, 2007
Let's think happy thoughts
Blown out by Detroit again, so here is Brent Burns beasting on some New York Rangers.
Friday, December 21, 2007
Well Detroit has the Octopus, Nashville has the...
Catfish. Yes, its somewhat of a tradition for Preds fans to throw catfish on the ice. This was during a recent game against the Chicago Blackhawks, and if you can notice, Martin Lapointe has some nice dangle with the fish.
Rut-Roh
And now its turning into a war of words...
http://www.startribune.com/sports/gophers/12692637.html
Wayne Gretzky doesn't seem to mind how Don Lucia develops his players, considering Keith Ballard is a former Gopher and Blake Wheeler is currently a Coyote prospect.
Really, who's opinion do you value more? The greatest forward of all time, or a career backup Goaltender who somehow became a GM?
Thursday, December 20, 2007
#34...Be still Daryl Sittler's heart
Just like one of those iconic pictures of the past, it marks a precedent in Minnesota Wild history. Marian Gaborik led the way with 5 goals and 1 assist, with Pierre-Marc Bouchard (who snapped a completely unacceptably long goal streak) adding the other goal, over the New York Rangers Thursday night at the X.
Two of Gaborik's goals were swatted out of mid-air, which would make one wonder if he could work out in the 3-hole in the Minnesota Twins Lineup. After the natural hat trick was completed, it became evident that what he touched turned to gold. Teammates continuously fed him the puck, and the crowd roared whenever he set foot on the ice. Its like the game itself became secondary; despite Jagr, Rolston, Shanahan, etc., it was all about Marian Gaborik.
It seemed like Wild Nation didn't care that there were Rangers out to run people, and try and create havoc; the focus of the night shifted to Gaborik, and if he could continue to score at will.
There is much ado about the hit Brent Burns laid on Petr Prucha; from what I saw it looked clean, but after a trip down message board lane, a lot of Ranger fans are screaming "ELBOW", although there is no doubt Fedor Tyutin got beasted on as he came to Prucha's aid. When I find some video of it, I'll post it.
I did think Josh Harding gave up some juicy rebounds, its just that the Wild were lucky no one was around to get them.
And what the fuck happened with Martin Skoula on New York's third goal. Seriously, what the hell was that?
you can relive some of tonight's glory here:
http://www.kuklaskorner.com/index.php/hockey/comments/gaborik_with_five_tonight/
-in savior-of-hockey related news, Sidney Crosby got a Gordie Howe Hat Trick tonight against Boston...
Go get yourself a grain of salt...
http://v4.hockeybuzz.com/blog.php?post_id=11956
"At least, no Flyer deals ... That Minnesota rumor is just that. A rumor. Of course, there is talk that Derek Boogaard is available. One NHL exec I trust told me that is making the rounds this evening."
While it is an Eklund rumor, one could see how this could be viable, considering Boogey's TOI is next to nothing, and that Minnesota has guys who can fight and play (Voros, and Fedoruk, although Fridge shouldn't really get back in the heavyweight role.) Minnesota has put alot of time into Boogaard's development, but there is an impending roster crunch. His balky back may be an issue.
"At least, no Flyer deals ... That Minnesota rumor is just that. A rumor. Of course, there is talk that Derek Boogaard is available. One NHL exec I trust told me that is making the rounds this evening."
While it is an Eklund rumor, one could see how this could be viable, considering Boogey's TOI is next to nothing, and that Minnesota has guys who can fight and play (Voros, and Fedoruk, although Fridge shouldn't really get back in the heavyweight role.) Minnesota has put alot of time into Boogaard's development, but there is an impending roster crunch. His balky back may be an issue.
Wednesday, December 19, 2007
Happy Trails Kyle Okposo!
http://www.usatoday.com/community/profile.htm?UID=7f199720956b03f0&plckController=PersonaBlog&plckScript=personaScript&plckElementId=personaDest&plckPersonaPage=BlogViewPost&plckPostId=Blog%3a7f199720956b03f0Post%3ab884594d-3971-4b33-aafa-9845c122b750
"
"
Posted 12/19/2007 12:35 PM EST
Kyle Okposo, the seventh pick in the 2006 NHL draft, has decided to leave the University of Minnesota and sign with the New York Islanders.
He told USA Hockey officials Tuesday that he still planned to play for Team USA at the world junior champioships.
Okposo, whose father in Nigerian, is a strong, physical scoring winger who can bull his way to the net. He projects to be a power forward at the NHL level. He’s expected to be one of USA’s top scorers at the WJC."
This was also reported on KFAN by Jeff Dubay.Twas nice knowing ya, although there is a scummy quotient to leaving your teammates halfway through the season. From what I've read so far, the Isles' brass wasn't happy with his development this season, meaning they wanted to get him signed and to either Long Island or their AHL Affiliate Bridgeport so they can get their tutorial hands on him.
Its shitty for Gopher teammates, fans, and the university, but that's the way it is now when it comes down to professional hockey; it is a business, and when you have what is deemed a potentially valuable long-term asset, you don't want to see it decrease in value or ruined by someone else. Not to say Don Lucia would do that, but I think NYI had a learning curve for Okposo, and it isn't panning out like they wanted. I think many were surprised that Okposo returned for his sophomore season, and knew it was going to be sooner than later when he signed.
And really, would you rather play for a mediocre team eating ramen and cheez-its for dinner, or playing with the big boys and being able to live comfortably?
#33...Milestones
Not only did Minnesota's 3-2 comeback win mark the eighth time in the past 11 games they have won, but it was also marked by not just one, but three career milestones.
-Defenseman Nick Schultz played in his 400th career game last night. The former 2nd round pick has been easily the best defenseman in the club's short history, and has blossomed into a top-two defenseman, and the main shutdown guy. Schultz, or "The Hammer" to some, is an unrestricted free agent at seasons end, and would be a huge mistake to not resign. Undoubtedly a huge cornerstone of the team, he is a must keep.
-Brian Rolston's game winning goal late in the third period was his 600th career point. He looks like he has gotten over the long goal-scoring drought over the past month or so, scoring in his past 3 games. Despite Marian Gaborik's presence, where Brian Rolston goes, the Minnesota Wild goes.
-Finally, in grand and exciting fashion, the comeback victory was Head Coach Jacques Lemaire's 1000th game as a head coach. The players must have wanted to make it special, considering not only the victory, but Lemaire was pleased with every line's performance last night.
One would think that they should adopt the mindset that they should play every game like it is Lemaire's 1000th.
Other than the exciting third stanza, there wasn't a whole lot worth mentioning. Nashville dictated the play quite a bit, leaving Josh Harding to hold down the fort more often than not. Harding, for the third game in a row, was outstanding, especially in the third, which was consistent end to end action.
-Defenseman Nick Schultz played in his 400th career game last night. The former 2nd round pick has been easily the best defenseman in the club's short history, and has blossomed into a top-two defenseman, and the main shutdown guy. Schultz, or "The Hammer" to some, is an unrestricted free agent at seasons end, and would be a huge mistake to not resign. Undoubtedly a huge cornerstone of the team, he is a must keep.
-Brian Rolston's game winning goal late in the third period was his 600th career point. He looks like he has gotten over the long goal-scoring drought over the past month or so, scoring in his past 3 games. Despite Marian Gaborik's presence, where Brian Rolston goes, the Minnesota Wild goes.
-Finally, in grand and exciting fashion, the comeback victory was Head Coach Jacques Lemaire's 1000th game as a head coach. The players must have wanted to make it special, considering not only the victory, but Lemaire was pleased with every line's performance last night.
One would think that they should adopt the mindset that they should play every game like it is Lemaire's 1000th.
Other than the exciting third stanza, there wasn't a whole lot worth mentioning. Nashville dictated the play quite a bit, leaving Josh Harding to hold down the fort more often than not. Harding, for the third game in a row, was outstanding, especially in the third, which was consistent end to end action.
Tuesday, December 18, 2007
Reader's Digest
Sunday, December 16, 2007
Some Colton Gillies for that ASS
Here's what I was talking about in the last post, the kid has superior skating ability for his size. Got some nice dangle too.
http://www.isshockey.com/video/small/coltongillies.wmv
Gillies has 18 points (11 goals and 7 assists) in 26 games, including 66 PIM and 6 power play goals. Fellow Wild Prospect Ondrej Fiala leads the Saskatoon Blades in scoring with 25 points (8 goals and 17 assists) in 30 games.
http://www.isshockey.com/video/small/coltongillies.wmv
Gillies has 18 points (11 goals and 7 assists) in 26 games, including 66 PIM and 6 power play goals. Fellow Wild Prospect Ondrej Fiala leads the Saskatoon Blades in scoring with 25 points (8 goals and 17 assists) in 30 games.
#32...Hollywood Swingin'
Coming into Saturday nights game in LA owning a crazy record of 4-1-1 in back to back games, and also coming off a huge win (not just in the standings, but also in moral and momentum) the previous night in Anaheim. So one could surmise that either the team, still ravaged by the Avian Flu to the point where Brent Burns played the wing, will feast or famine on the LA Kings, despite the nifty little record.
It so has it that the jinx stat was out last night getting a drink. Marian Gaborik, Brian Rolston, and Josh Harding were the main cogs in a 2-1 victory, a penalty-filled affair (thank you Mick McGeough) where the Kings were shut out until 72 seconds left in the game. There was a total of 18 penalties called, some legit and some iffy (that's how it is in the "New NHL"), keeping players like James Sheppard and Aaron Voros on the bench during the special teams extravaganza. Sheppard, by my estimation, got about 5 minutes of ice time.
Back to Burns. I tuned into HDNet, which ran its coverage of a MMA event about 7 minutes into the game, to see Burns dump the puck into the zone and forecheck hard after it, which immediately made me think that Burns has a very long leash or no leash at all to make plays from the blueline. Then I saw the same thing happen, where he flew into the zone, smokes a LA defenseman, scoops up the puck and make a nice scoring opportunity out of the play. Finally, it dawned on me that Burns, because of his versatility, was moved to the wing because of the Bubonic Plague having its way with Branko Radivojevic and Matt Foy. It turns out that Derek Boogaard had back spasms during the Anaheim game the night before, taking him out of the lineup (from what I've read, Boogaard stood the entire third period at the Wild bench because of his back.) Burns ultimately moved back to the blueline toward the end of the game, and Jacques Lemaire emphasized that this was a one-time position change.
In my opinion, Burns has a far higher ceiling playing defense than he does as a winger. What Minnesota does have to look for is Colton Gillies, the 2007 1st rounder, fulfilling the same role, perhaps sooner than later. On a finesse team which lacks a hard forecheck and some physicality, Gillies may make this team as early as next fall because of his superior skating ability (he skates very well for a kid who is 6'4", he was the fastest skater at the CHL Top Prospects Game last year), willingness to get his nose dirty, and good defensive awareness. Really in the grand scheme of things, one would think that if you put Gillies in that sort of role, to go out and hit people, bring some energy and a disruptive forecheck, that despite his age he could succeed- that is what Burns did when he came into the league as an 18 year old. Burns, despite what hopes people had for a potential power forward, would have just been a big checking forward in my opinion. I think his mobility is much better served on the back end. And in an ironic twist, Gillies has stepped in and played defense in the past for the teams he has been on, so perhaps a "reverse Burns" happens. Hard to argue with two 6'4" kids who can skate and hit on the back end, right?
The main story coming into this week is that roster moves are going to be have to made, now that Petteri Nummelin is fully recovered from the boo-boo on his head. Aaron Voros has cemented a spot in the lineup, meaning someone, maybe some people, are going to have to go. I know it sounds like a broken record, but its an inevitability.
It so has it that the jinx stat was out last night getting a drink. Marian Gaborik, Brian Rolston, and Josh Harding were the main cogs in a 2-1 victory, a penalty-filled affair (thank you Mick McGeough) where the Kings were shut out until 72 seconds left in the game. There was a total of 18 penalties called, some legit and some iffy (that's how it is in the "New NHL"), keeping players like James Sheppard and Aaron Voros on the bench during the special teams extravaganza. Sheppard, by my estimation, got about 5 minutes of ice time.
Back to Burns. I tuned into HDNet, which ran its coverage of a MMA event about 7 minutes into the game, to see Burns dump the puck into the zone and forecheck hard after it, which immediately made me think that Burns has a very long leash or no leash at all to make plays from the blueline. Then I saw the same thing happen, where he flew into the zone, smokes a LA defenseman, scoops up the puck and make a nice scoring opportunity out of the play. Finally, it dawned on me that Burns, because of his versatility, was moved to the wing because of the Bubonic Plague having its way with Branko Radivojevic and Matt Foy. It turns out that Derek Boogaard had back spasms during the Anaheim game the night before, taking him out of the lineup (from what I've read, Boogaard stood the entire third period at the Wild bench because of his back.) Burns ultimately moved back to the blueline toward the end of the game, and Jacques Lemaire emphasized that this was a one-time position change.
In my opinion, Burns has a far higher ceiling playing defense than he does as a winger. What Minnesota does have to look for is Colton Gillies, the 2007 1st rounder, fulfilling the same role, perhaps sooner than later. On a finesse team which lacks a hard forecheck and some physicality, Gillies may make this team as early as next fall because of his superior skating ability (he skates very well for a kid who is 6'4", he was the fastest skater at the CHL Top Prospects Game last year), willingness to get his nose dirty, and good defensive awareness. Really in the grand scheme of things, one would think that if you put Gillies in that sort of role, to go out and hit people, bring some energy and a disruptive forecheck, that despite his age he could succeed- that is what Burns did when he came into the league as an 18 year old. Burns, despite what hopes people had for a potential power forward, would have just been a big checking forward in my opinion. I think his mobility is much better served on the back end. And in an ironic twist, Gillies has stepped in and played defense in the past for the teams he has been on, so perhaps a "reverse Burns" happens. Hard to argue with two 6'4" kids who can skate and hit on the back end, right?
The main story coming into this week is that roster moves are going to be have to made, now that Petteri Nummelin is fully recovered from the boo-boo on his head. Aaron Voros has cemented a spot in the lineup, meaning someone, maybe some people, are going to have to go. I know it sounds like a broken record, but its an inevitability.
#31...Donald Duck Gets DONE
With a terribly uninspiring performance against San Jose, and a semi-pandemic running through the team, things didn't exactly sparkle with optimism. Much of the news surrounding Anaheim was the imminent arrival of Scott Niedermayer, and whether or not his debut was going to be Friday night against Minnesota. It was not, but it did mark the departure of Andy MacDonald to St. Louis, which sent veteran Doug Weight (last time he was traded he won a cup with Carolina), prospect Michal Birner, and a 7th rounder westward.
Minnesota, plain and simple, kicked Anaheim's ass.
Josh Harding was sensational, finally winning for the first time in nearly two months. He was a wall, and looked like he wasn't feeling any effects of the SARS that had made its way through the locker room. It was good to see Harding get off the schnide, considering his past starts were terrible.
Who else could start of the scoring? Aaron Voros. The big guy showed off a little skill, catching a pass while skating backwards, then smoothly making a crossover and shooting the puck right as he got to squaring up with Jean-Sebastian Giguere. No one wants to say it, but we all wanted him to get into a fight for the mythical "Gordie Howe Hat Trick", after making a fantastic pass to Brent Burns later in the game for a goal. That play was straight up EA Sports NHL 07.
After the recent calling out of skill players, the guys who make the Wild go scored; Brian Rolston had a goal and two helpers, and Marian Gaborik scored his team leading 11th on a wicked wrist shot.
With a win in Anaheim the Wild have a chance to escape the five game road trip with a winning record; one would have thought that wouldn't be possible after the awful losses in Detroit and San Jose.
Minnesota, plain and simple, kicked Anaheim's ass.
Josh Harding was sensational, finally winning for the first time in nearly two months. He was a wall, and looked like he wasn't feeling any effects of the SARS that had made its way through the locker room. It was good to see Harding get off the schnide, considering his past starts were terrible.
Who else could start of the scoring? Aaron Voros. The big guy showed off a little skill, catching a pass while skating backwards, then smoothly making a crossover and shooting the puck right as he got to squaring up with Jean-Sebastian Giguere. No one wants to say it, but we all wanted him to get into a fight for the mythical "Gordie Howe Hat Trick", after making a fantastic pass to Brent Burns later in the game for a goal. That play was straight up EA Sports NHL 07.
After the recent calling out of skill players, the guys who make the Wild go scored; Brian Rolston had a goal and two helpers, and Marian Gaborik scored his team leading 11th on a wicked wrist shot.
With a win in Anaheim the Wild have a chance to escape the five game road trip with a winning record; one would have thought that wouldn't be possible after the awful losses in Detroit and San Jose.
Saturday, December 15, 2007
And now a quick break brought to you by the Deuce By Definition House Band...
...Herb Alpert and the Tijuana Brass Band.
And just to lighten things up here a bit, here is "A Taste of Honey"...
And just to lighten things up here a bit, here is "A Taste of Honey"...
Thursday, December 13, 2007
Remember when you thought you could be up your dad?
Well, not if your Dad is Gary Roberts, who makes Philadelphia's Ben Eager his bitch. Roberts is 41, Eager is 23, and also 40 pounds heavier. Roberts is considered league-wide to be one of the toughest and strongest guys in the league, and this video is a testament to that.
The lead up to this was Eager ran Georges Laraque, but wouldn't accept Big Georges' challenge, so Roberts got in his face to "smooth over the discourse".
With his fists.
The lead up to this was Eager ran Georges Laraque, but wouldn't accept Big Georges' challenge, so Roberts got in his face to "smooth over the discourse".
With his fists.
All I do is brighten up your day
...so the author wouldn't allow embedding, but if you don't like the Vancouver Canucks like some, then watch Georges Laraque bring the thunder on Jeff Cowan at the 25 second mark or so.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_OI4YnnrTqk
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_OI4YnnrTqk
Tis the season...
http://tsn.ca/world_jrs/news_story/?ID=225082&hubname=
...if you are a Canadian, because their World Junior Team was announced today. The only Minnesota tie is Colton Gillies, the Wild's 1st round pick this year (16th overall), was selected to join the team for this year's tournament in the Czech Republic.
James Sheppard was of age to participate in the tournament also, but was not released by Minnesota because of depth issues at center.
Here's a whiny little article about none of the World Junior Eligible NHLers not being released...
http://www.canada.com/calgaryherald/columnists/story.html?id=cfea5799-e6bc-4192-a462-7801a8cf6c21
...if you are a Canadian, because their World Junior Team was announced today. The only Minnesota tie is Colton Gillies, the Wild's 1st round pick this year (16th overall), was selected to join the team for this year's tournament in the Czech Republic.
James Sheppard was of age to participate in the tournament also, but was not released by Minnesota because of depth issues at center.
Here's a whiny little article about none of the World Junior Eligible NHLers not being released...
http://www.canada.com/calgaryherald/columnists/story.html?id=cfea5799-e6bc-4192-a462-7801a8cf6c21
Wednesday, December 12, 2007
#30...a Pimp Slap, a team that's out of whack, and a throwback
I thought this would be appropriate, considering this was also posted after a terrible effort against the San Jose Sharks last year. Again, the recap of tonight's 4-1 loss to the Sharks.
Alot of what I will write was influenced by my roommate; I thought he captured the spirit of tonight's game very well when he described it to me in these ways during the course of the contest:
1. "its like the game goes THEM THEM THEM THEM THEM us us us THEM THEM THEM THEM"
2. "You know Nazi Pass Mode on the video game? Ya, that's the Sharks tonight."
3. Finally to in an effort to bring me there, live from the HP Pavilion, he simply farted into his hand, and then threw it into my face. Something about smelling how they are playing tonight...
Ya, so it was ugly. Including the aftermath of #3.
-Brian Rolston deserves some guff for his lack of production. I know he has plenty of tools, but it seems like when he shoots its always the slapshot, as if he has conditioned himself to think that all he can do is blow it by or through the goaltender. Which is detrimental, considering Minnesota goes as Brian Rolston goes...
-the lack of physicality (with due exception to a handful of players) is becoming concerning, especially recently during two blowout losses. (Yes, tonight was a blowout.) I've said this a million times, you don't have to run guys from behind, but burying a shoulder in the opponent's sweater is a sure fire way to increase the level of engagement for a team which is getting its ass kicked- that in turn can lead to tingly butt on the opposition, which can lead to mistakes, mistakes lead to turnovers, turnovers can lead to goals and a swing of momentum, and suddenly the game isn't out of hand. Well, the writing is on the wall...
http://www.startribune.com/sports/wild/12338031.html
Increase the ice time of the guys willing to "plumb", and sprinkle in a skill guy on the line, and you would think things would work, right? Enough of this fancy shit. Ugly goals are still goals, and when you're down by four damn goals, you should get what you can. More Voros, more Fedoruk (any fight where he doesn't break his face or end up unconcious is a victory in my book), more Veilleux, more Radivojevic, more Sheppard, more Parrish. Throw in a Gaborik here, a Demitra there. Maybe a little PMB alongside Voros and Sheppard, or Belanger between Fedoruk and Foy (or at least until Foy is sent off somewhere in a roster move.)
Change the identity here; let the plumbers set the table so the skill guys can feast on the space given to them.
Because at this point, hard work is all we have going for us.
Monday, December 10, 2007
Sunday, December 9, 2007
Don't you feel old?
You know, when you go to the local rink, and secretly work on your stickhandling, wrist shot, and your on-ice vision?
Then you see this shit, and decide to go to the bar.
Then you see this shit, and decide to go to the bar.
#29...the best win no one saw
I guess the Wild put their noses to the grind stone and got out of Columbus (a place they have won once at) with a 2-1 win. Brian Rolston scored, which is hopefully a sign that he is getting back on track. Rolston has been absolutely mediocre for an extended period time, which has been very unlike his tenure in a Wild sweater. He does seem to be picking the pieces up, with the recent production. Pierre-Marc Bouchard also snapped a seven game scoreless streak by assisting on Rolston's game winner.
Who else scored? Oh ya, Aaron Voros. The newest fan favorite also fought Jared Boll in the second period, again coming close to attaining the Gordie Howe Hat Trick. The poster child for the Minnesota Plumbing Co-Op, Voros continues to endear himself to the fans and coaching staff, and also spearheads the grit movement that the organization committed themselves too in the offseason since the early playoff exit by Anaheim.
Minnesota desperately needs Mikko Koivu back; but roster decisions are going to have to be made, even before the big Fin comes back.
Who else scored? Oh ya, Aaron Voros. The newest fan favorite also fought Jared Boll in the second period, again coming close to attaining the Gordie Howe Hat Trick. The poster child for the Minnesota Plumbing Co-Op, Voros continues to endear himself to the fans and coaching staff, and also spearheads the grit movement that the organization committed themselves too in the offseason since the early playoff exit by Anaheim.
Minnesota desperately needs Mikko Koivu back; but roster decisions are going to have to be made, even before the big Fin comes back.
#28...Lost In Transition
With the most recent issue of Sports Illustrated, the same issue which Brett Favre is named SI Sportsman of the Year, again St. Paul was bestowed the moniker of the new "Hockeytown USA" (there was an earlier Foxsports.com editorial, which I had posted, which had declared St. Pauli Girl the same.) Wild.Com even issued this press release:
http://boards.wild.com/index.php?automodule=blog&blogid=2&showentry=122
So, everything was fine and dandy going into Detroit, the former "Hockeytown USA". Minnesota had a nice little resurgent winning streak, the whole SI thing was popping off, things were going good...
Ya well, the former "Hockeytown USA" (which was nothing more than a marketing slogan), kicked Minnesota's ass. Badly. At no point during the game Friday night did the Wild even look like they could have even remotely played with the Red Wings. Henrik Zetterberg, who is rapidly ascending to the elite echelon of two-way players, had a hat trick, and line mate Pavel Datsyuk had three assists. For those who have never seen Datsyuk play in person is in for the treat; he is easily the most skilled puck possession player I have ever seen.
But ya, it was a complete buzzkill considering the roll Minnesota was on coming into the game. Then this occured.
Wild beat writer Mike Russo was livid about Detroit Broadcast Crew Ken Daniels and Mickey Redmond and their call of said play: http://nc.startribune.com/blogs/wildblog/?p=365
I don't recall seeing the play; due to my disgust of the Wild performance, I was switching back and forth between the game and the North Dakota/Gopher game. However, I do understand his point.
But there is this point- "The more I listen to regional telecasts on Center Ice, it just amazes me how some of these local announcers lack any objectivity whatsoever."
Well, they are REGIONAL BROADCASTS for these teams, so of course the broadcast crews are going to be bias against the team they cover 75+ times a year. Its one thing when its a national broadcast; Vs., NBC, TSN, CBC, ESPN (wishful thinking), but these are essentially homer telecasts. You don't hear Paul Allen and Pete Bercich calling objective games on KFAN; you don't hear and see Tom Hanneman and Jim Petersen calling Timberwolves games right down the nuts, do ya? That's the point of it, ideally you want that in a local broadcast team, without going overboard. Yes, Dan Terhaar, that means you.
http://boards.wild.com/index.php?automodule=blog&blogid=2&showentry=122
So, everything was fine and dandy going into Detroit, the former "Hockeytown USA". Minnesota had a nice little resurgent winning streak, the whole SI thing was popping off, things were going good...
Ya well, the former "Hockeytown USA" (which was nothing more than a marketing slogan), kicked Minnesota's ass. Badly. At no point during the game Friday night did the Wild even look like they could have even remotely played with the Red Wings. Henrik Zetterberg, who is rapidly ascending to the elite echelon of two-way players, had a hat trick, and line mate Pavel Datsyuk had three assists. For those who have never seen Datsyuk play in person is in for the treat; he is easily the most skilled puck possession player I have ever seen.
But ya, it was a complete buzzkill considering the roll Minnesota was on coming into the game. Then this occured.
Wild beat writer Mike Russo was livid about Detroit Broadcast Crew Ken Daniels and Mickey Redmond and their call of said play: http://nc.startribune.com/blogs/wildblog/?p=365
I don't recall seeing the play; due to my disgust of the Wild performance, I was switching back and forth between the game and the North Dakota/Gopher game. However, I do understand his point.
But there is this point- "The more I listen to regional telecasts on Center Ice, it just amazes me how some of these local announcers lack any objectivity whatsoever."
Well, they are REGIONAL BROADCASTS for these teams, so of course the broadcast crews are going to be bias against the team they cover 75+ times a year. Its one thing when its a national broadcast; Vs., NBC, TSN, CBC, ESPN (wishful thinking), but these are essentially homer telecasts. You don't hear Paul Allen and Pete Bercich calling objective games on KFAN; you don't hear and see Tom Hanneman and Jim Petersen calling Timberwolves games right down the nuts, do ya? That's the point of it, ideally you want that in a local broadcast team, without going overboard. Yes, Dan Terhaar, that means you.
Thursday, December 6, 2007
This could be a serious black eye
Not only was the Steve Moore/Todd Bertuzzi incident ugly, but this could really make things worse.
http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2007/writers/jim_kelley/12/06/news.notes/index.html
http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2007/writers/jim_kelley/12/06/news.notes/index.html
#27...Apathy For the Devil
Wow, what a intensely flat performance. Minnesota looked uninspired (well, Sean Hill didn't when he left the crease to go check Philadelphia's Scottie Upshall in the corner, leaving Jeff Carter all by himself with the puck, which led to a goal) and was a very boring product to watch. Things looked like they were going to go well; the Wild did have a 5 on 3 within the first five minutes of the game, only to come away with naught. With that kill, you could see the wind get taken out of the sails. Not to say there weren't chances, the Flyers marched to the penalty box on a regular basis, yet Minnesota could only convert for one goal.
If you were looking for a deft display of perimeter passing on the power play, which was almost surgical at times, then you were in the right place. Looking for shots that hit the net? Screens and Deflections? The X Wednesday night wasn't the right place for that.
Now I like Aaron Voros as much as the next guy, but playing with Marian Gaborik and Pavol Demitra is not the right place to be- does he deserve added ice time? Of Course. I just don't think that it should be with the Slovaks; keep Voros and Sheppard together, and give that line extra ice time, especially considering how productive they have been for a number of games. I think the lines could have been shuffled alot better, if not earlier in the game.
-Nick Schultz played after the first period, leaving the game after catching the puck in the throat. He is fine, and will make the road trip this weekend to Columbus and Detroit.
-Mikko Koivu will still be out another week;
http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2007/hockey/nhl/12/06/wild.koivu.ap/index.html
What a shame, considering Koivu was looking like he was heading toward his first All-Star selection.
-The highlight of the night? Watching one of the shovelers (those guys who skate out at tv timeouts and shovel the snow along the benches, penalty boxes, and goalmouths), completely eat shit into the boards as he was trying to get back to the tunnel. The crowd (my section of the rink) responded with a standing ovation. This, unfortunately, was the high point.
If you were looking for a deft display of perimeter passing on the power play, which was almost surgical at times, then you were in the right place. Looking for shots that hit the net? Screens and Deflections? The X Wednesday night wasn't the right place for that.
Now I like Aaron Voros as much as the next guy, but playing with Marian Gaborik and Pavol Demitra is not the right place to be- does he deserve added ice time? Of Course. I just don't think that it should be with the Slovaks; keep Voros and Sheppard together, and give that line extra ice time, especially considering how productive they have been for a number of games. I think the lines could have been shuffled alot better, if not earlier in the game.
-Nick Schultz played after the first period, leaving the game after catching the puck in the throat. He is fine, and will make the road trip this weekend to Columbus and Detroit.
-Mikko Koivu will still be out another week;
http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2007/hockey/nhl/12/06/wild.koivu.ap/index.html
What a shame, considering Koivu was looking like he was heading toward his first All-Star selection.
-The highlight of the night? Watching one of the shovelers (those guys who skate out at tv timeouts and shovel the snow along the benches, penalty boxes, and goalmouths), completely eat shit into the boards as he was trying to get back to the tunnel. The crowd (my section of the rink) responded with a standing ovation. This, unfortunately, was the high point.
Wednesday, December 5, 2007
Some Hotstove Action
The latest rumor surrounding the Ace of everyone's favorite baseball team:
http://www.mlbtraderumors.com/2007/12/santanareyeshar.html
Interesting.
http://www.mlbtraderumors.com/2007/12/santanareyeshar.html
Interesting.
Sunday, December 2, 2007
#26...V for Voros
Vancouver came back to town tonight for the third of eight divisional matchups against Minnesota, and despite the game not having the same amount of hype and buildup like the last one, it still contained the same mutual disdain and chippy play that would come with a blood feud. You had players from both teams making runs at one another, a couple fights (including Aaron Voros and Jeff Cowan immediately after the opening faceoff, which only enhances Wild Nation's endearment with Voros), some big hits, and of course Dan Terhaar pointing out every missed call that should have gone against the Canucks.
For the m
For the m