Lyle Richardson of The Hockey News has made it obvious to those who aren't aware that some big roster decisions loom in the offseason.
This is just me speaking, but I'd let Demitra go, unless he is willing to resign for less than what he is getting now. Pav's getting up there with age, and is injury prone; can we afford another season where he's only available for 70 games, maybe less?
Considering Brian Rolston just notched his 3rd consecutive 30 goal season, he should be priority #1; he's said in the past that he'd like to retire here, and there really isn't any reason to not believe him, but that being said, Rolston is gonna get paid...from someone. It depends if Doug Risebrough will shell out the money for a guy in his mid-30's.
As for Pierre-Marc Bouchard, you've got some leeway. He is a restricted free agent, so you can let it play out and go to arbitration if you have to; and if someone does sign him to an offer sheet, well take the picks and run. Nothing against Bouchard, who I like greatly, but there are whispers that some believe he can't succeed in a tight-checking Western Conference playoff race. Maybe he can prove the detractors wrong, but that's the way it is when you have a 5'9" 175 pound skill player.
Now as for Demitra and Marian Gaborik; if Gabby doesn't take well to Demitra leaving, and won't resign, well sports fans, then add Marian Gaborik to the list of "Minnesota Sports Icons who have been traded" list. There is no way that Risebrough can afford (on the ice, in the media, and in the eye of Wild Nation)to let Gaborik leave Minnesota without any sort of return. You've seen the backlash Buffalo has gotten for the departures of Chris Drury and Daniel Briere; if Gaborik won't re-up long term, he has to be shopped, plain and simple. You'd have to get something in return, especially for an elite player like Gaborik, and chances are is that return could be very healthy.
So yes, there is a very real possibility that Minnesota could be fielding an awfully different lineup next fall.
Monday, March 31, 2008
Sunday, March 30, 2008
#80...The Biggest Game of the Season is Tonight...Save the Cork Poppin
Playoffs? Check.
By way of Johan Franzen's overtime goal that gave Detroit the win over the Nashville Predators, Minnesota clinched a playoff spot before they even took the ice. The Wild played the first period much like the last two games, and then they must have found out the news about the playoff berth during the first intermission because they let Colorado back into the game in the 2nd period. It was absurd; at one point they only managed 2 shots in something like a 30 minute stretch.
They shook off the champagne hangover for the third period, and then Marian Gaborik won it in overtime, scoring his 40th goal of the season off of a semi-broken 2 on 1 with Pavol Demitra. The key was a defensive play that involved Gaborik, Demitra, and Nick Schultz, which triggered the 2 on 1. Gaborik now holds the team record for scoring with 80 points, still with two games to play; Brian Rolston scored a goal in the first period to make it three consecutive 30 goal seasons as a member of the Minnesota Wild. To think that all these achievements and records are being broken and there are still games left to play...
I think what you see is that this team appears to be peaking at the right time; its funny how the game of hockey works, considering just a month or so ago things looked awfully grim, and even the thought of making the playoffs seemed like a farce. Well, now not only are they getting scoring from everyone, but now Niklas Backstrom is really playing well. Backstrom has kept the team in the game at times when there are breakdowns and lapses, which has enabled the people playing in front of him to rebound and move forward.
However, I think the real test is when Calgary comes to town Thursday (I'll be there!) Even though they are getting smoked by Vancouver right now (6-2 'Nucks with 8 minutes left in the 3rd), the division title isn't locked up by any means, and Calgary still has games left on their docket before Thursday so they could be closer than the 5 points that stand now. To me, Calgary epitomizes playoff hockey, so it should be a good primer of what Minnesota will see again this spring; but not only is Calgary going to be a tough (and potentially desperate test who will surely get up for this game), but they, specifically Jarome Iginla, have owned us all year long. I really think that a win here could go a long, long way; not just for the first banner to hang from the X rafters, but for the team's confidence heading into their playoff run.
-Ryan Jones had his collegiate career end tonight against Boston College, so I would imagine that he'll be signed and on his way to Houston. I made it a point to catch the game, and watch Jones specifically. He's a beast; he hit (at least 3 huge checks in the first period alone), he scored (a clutch goal to tie the game in the third), and looks awfully promising. He isn't a speedster, but his skating isn't awful by any means- you just aren't going to see him blow by defenders by going wide. There should be news of the signing soon.
By way of Johan Franzen's overtime goal that gave Detroit the win over the Nashville Predators, Minnesota clinched a playoff spot before they even took the ice. The Wild played the first period much like the last two games, and then they must have found out the news about the playoff berth during the first intermission because they let Colorado back into the game in the 2nd period. It was absurd; at one point they only managed 2 shots in something like a 30 minute stretch.
They shook off the champagne hangover for the third period, and then Marian Gaborik won it in overtime, scoring his 40th goal of the season off of a semi-broken 2 on 1 with Pavol Demitra. The key was a defensive play that involved Gaborik, Demitra, and Nick Schultz, which triggered the 2 on 1. Gaborik now holds the team record for scoring with 80 points, still with two games to play; Brian Rolston scored a goal in the first period to make it three consecutive 30 goal seasons as a member of the Minnesota Wild. To think that all these achievements and records are being broken and there are still games left to play...
I think what you see is that this team appears to be peaking at the right time; its funny how the game of hockey works, considering just a month or so ago things looked awfully grim, and even the thought of making the playoffs seemed like a farce. Well, now not only are they getting scoring from everyone, but now Niklas Backstrom is really playing well. Backstrom has kept the team in the game at times when there are breakdowns and lapses, which has enabled the people playing in front of him to rebound and move forward.
However, I think the real test is when Calgary comes to town Thursday (I'll be there!) Even though they are getting smoked by Vancouver right now (6-2 'Nucks with 8 minutes left in the 3rd), the division title isn't locked up by any means, and Calgary still has games left on their docket before Thursday so they could be closer than the 5 points that stand now. To me, Calgary epitomizes playoff hockey, so it should be a good primer of what Minnesota will see again this spring; but not only is Calgary going to be a tough (and potentially desperate test who will surely get up for this game), but they, specifically Jarome Iginla, have owned us all year long. I really think that a win here could go a long, long way; not just for the first banner to hang from the X rafters, but for the team's confidence heading into their playoff run.
-Ryan Jones had his collegiate career end tonight against Boston College, so I would imagine that he'll be signed and on his way to Houston. I made it a point to catch the game, and watch Jones specifically. He's a beast; he hit (at least 3 huge checks in the first period alone), he scored (a clutch goal to tie the game in the third), and looks awfully promising. He isn't a speedster, but his skating isn't awful by any means- you just aren't going to see him blow by defenders by going wide. There should be news of the signing soon.
Saturday, March 29, 2008
#79...The Biggest Game of the Season is Tonight...McFadden and Whitehead
Since I do what I can to optimize your "Deuce By Definition" blog experience, we're going to do this; hit play, and then continue to read. If you catch yourself nodding along and feeling good, then keep on keeping on.
Last night was the second straight game where Minnesota play a complete 60 minutes, overpowering the opponent from start to finish. They continually carried the play, and simply brought it to Vancouver, who is sinking fast. It looks to me like Roberto Luongo has mailed it in this year; 9 goals allowed in his past two starts, and since he just became a father Thursday (congrats to the Luongo Family), I'm sure that playing playoff hockey is the last thing on his mind. And sadly for the Canucks, their dinghy is attached to Luongo; so if the ship is sinking or won't leave port, then its lights out for the Nucks.
Mikko Koivu had a goal (just broke Willie Mitchell's ankles on that move) and an assist, giving him 5 points in the past 2 games. Since his return from the broken leg, Koivu has simply haunted Vancouver to no end; a game winning goal, a shootout goal to win, 2 points last night. Both Pierre-Marc Bouchard and Brent Burns came close to the mythical "Gordie Howe Hat Trick", after Alex Burrows finally showed his true self and speared Bouchard in the 3rd period, and then tried to cross check his head off when Bouchard confronted him. Burns took on Nathan McIver when McIver jumped into the fracas, and began to tee off until the refs stopped him. Burrows, the gutless swine he is, waited outside of the melee until he could get at PMB and the two basically grappled til it was broken up. I do like the Big Brother moments though; Chris Simon, although he was engaged with Brad Isbister, managing to grab the collar of Burrows in order to stop their fight, and then "The Fridge" Todd Fedoruk (pretty goal off the Marian Gaborik feed) taking out Nathan McIver when he started to take some liberties with Gaborik late in the third. Say all you want about having The Fridge, The Boogie Man, and The Kitchen Sink (I'm reaching for something) as explicit goonery, but its been pretty effective the past few games. With the exception of Burrows' stick work last night, there hasn't been a whole lot of funny stuff of late. I'd expect Alex Burrows to get a suspension since he was handed down a match penalty, and that wasn't even for the spear.
10 different players had a point last night; Burns and Bouchard continue to add to their career high totals, and Gaborik is a point away from breaking Brian Rolston's team record for points in a season. I think Gaborik desperately wants to get 40 goals this year.
Even though Nashville won last night, it looks like Minnesota is a lock for the playoffs (its funny to say that, considering how tempestuous things were just a month or so ago), because essentially the magic number is 1. But since that is a mere formality, the goal now is to win the Division. I like how the team has adopted the mantra of "the biggest game of the season is tonight", because it gives the team a certain sense of urgency and forces them to engage. Its working, and come tomorrow the game against Colorado will be nothing less of that.
-a thing of note, There is a good chance that the Toronto Maple Leafs are gonna talk to Doug Risebrough about becoming their GM. Mike Russo has some more insight on it as well. Also, it is a classy move by Risebrough to resign Kurtis Foster so it will take alot of stress off of him and his rehab. While he may or may not play again, he will be able to rehab under the team's care.
Last night was the second straight game where Minnesota play a complete 60 minutes, overpowering the opponent from start to finish. They continually carried the play, and simply brought it to Vancouver, who is sinking fast. It looks to me like Roberto Luongo has mailed it in this year; 9 goals allowed in his past two starts, and since he just became a father Thursday (congrats to the Luongo Family), I'm sure that playing playoff hockey is the last thing on his mind. And sadly for the Canucks, their dinghy is attached to Luongo; so if the ship is sinking or won't leave port, then its lights out for the Nucks.
Mikko Koivu had a goal (just broke Willie Mitchell's ankles on that move) and an assist, giving him 5 points in the past 2 games. Since his return from the broken leg, Koivu has simply haunted Vancouver to no end; a game winning goal, a shootout goal to win, 2 points last night. Both Pierre-Marc Bouchard and Brent Burns came close to the mythical "Gordie Howe Hat Trick", after Alex Burrows finally showed his true self and speared Bouchard in the 3rd period, and then tried to cross check his head off when Bouchard confronted him. Burns took on Nathan McIver when McIver jumped into the fracas, and began to tee off until the refs stopped him. Burrows, the gutless swine he is, waited outside of the melee until he could get at PMB and the two basically grappled til it was broken up. I do like the Big Brother moments though; Chris Simon, although he was engaged with Brad Isbister, managing to grab the collar of Burrows in order to stop their fight, and then "The Fridge" Todd Fedoruk (pretty goal off the Marian Gaborik feed) taking out Nathan McIver when he started to take some liberties with Gaborik late in the third. Say all you want about having The Fridge, The Boogie Man, and The Kitchen Sink (I'm reaching for something) as explicit goonery, but its been pretty effective the past few games. With the exception of Burrows' stick work last night, there hasn't been a whole lot of funny stuff of late. I'd expect Alex Burrows to get a suspension since he was handed down a match penalty, and that wasn't even for the spear.
10 different players had a point last night; Burns and Bouchard continue to add to their career high totals, and Gaborik is a point away from breaking Brian Rolston's team record for points in a season. I think Gaborik desperately wants to get 40 goals this year.
Even though Nashville won last night, it looks like Minnesota is a lock for the playoffs (its funny to say that, considering how tempestuous things were just a month or so ago), because essentially the magic number is 1. But since that is a mere formality, the goal now is to win the Division. I like how the team has adopted the mantra of "the biggest game of the season is tonight", because it gives the team a certain sense of urgency and forces them to engage. Its working, and come tomorrow the game against Colorado will be nothing less of that.
-a thing of note, There is a good chance that the Toronto Maple Leafs are gonna talk to Doug Risebrough about becoming their GM. Mike Russo has some more insight on it as well. Also, it is a classy move by Risebrough to resign Kurtis Foster so it will take alot of stress off of him and his rehab. While he may or may not play again, he will be able to rehab under the team's care.
Friday, March 28, 2008
Ladies and Gentlemen...We got him
As per Mike Russo's Blog Colton Gillies signed with Minnesota today. Its a three-year entry level contract, and will report to Houston on an Amateur Try out.
Re: Third Jersey Prattle
Some guy nicknamed "The Jersey Devil" came up with some 3rd jersey concepts for about a dozen teams, Minnesota included. I kinda like it...now only if we could get that to be our road sweater...
Thursday, March 27, 2008
Stay Classy San Jose
I found this story concerning Kurtis Foster and The San Jose Organization from the Seagate Broadcaster Blog on The San Jose Sharks website. This truly is a great read, and the Sharks club should be commended for the efforts to accomodate Foster (and his fiancee) after his severe injury and subsequent surgery.
Kudos.
Kudos.
UPGRADE UPGRADE
Thanks to Paul at the Wild.Com Message Boards, here at DbyD we got a brand new spanking banner for the website; looks spiffy, eh?
And for those who missed it, here is the Derek Boogaard-Zach Stortini tilt from last night...
And for those who missed it, here is the Derek Boogaard-Zach Stortini tilt from last night...
#78...CRUNCH TIME...Trading Places
^^^^I ate here last night, they have fantastic burgers. They are located at the corner of Hamline and Edgecumbe, right across the street from Cretin Derham Hall.
What a difference a day, no optional practices, and some urgency make; it was a role reversal, where Minnesota was the team skating, and did a wonderful job limiting The Oil through the neutral zone, and only really giving up one legit odd-man rush. It should be mentioned that Edmonton did hit a number of posts, but as the adage goes "that's all Backstrom have 'em."
A few weeks back I wrote about how Mikko Koivu is vital to the Wild, and it was evident last night with a three-assist effort. His defensive play led directly to Branko Radivojevic's goal (he knocked the puck down in the neutral zone and kicked it up to Marian Gaborik to start a rush) and Brian Rolston's shortie (good play at the defensive blueline to start a 2 on 1). On Sean Hill's goal he got the puck down low and basically threw a no-look backhand pass out to the top of the slot, which Hill buried for his second consecutive game with a goal. Afterwards, Hill drew comparisons between Koivu and Hall of Famer Ron Francis. Not a bad comparison.
The thing with Hill is he has to forgo the big hit; I know its his reputation and such, but there has been too many times where he's wandered out of position to lump somebody up, which has led to a goal. That in turn, has caused him to see a decent amount of press box time; but, now that he is the everyday guy, he has to play smart because a.) his physicality is still needed, and he can bury the puck, and b.) we don't have anything else. Jacques Lemaire has put the kaybash on any Shawn Belle/Clayton Stoner talk because he doesn't think too highly of them, and once Erik Reitz is healthy (whenever that is) he'll be called up. Again, when he is healthy...off a high ankle sprain. That's a dicey injury.
So now the homestand has been kicked off with a big win, not just standings-wise, but also morale wise, and the sinking Canucks are next. Roberto Luongo was pulled in the Colorado game last night, but since they are teetering on the brink of the playoffs, you will see a desperate team. It should be said that despite how big each game is now, the trap is getting too high off your last win and not be ready to play, much like what we saw in Edmonton.
Wednesday, March 26, 2008
Ya, I'm a dumbass
Andrew Ferraro of "Scoring For Houston" has seen my last column at Faceoffcircle.net. And I guess he finds it amusing.
*EDIT* I misinterpreted a statement by Mr. Ferraro, and its all good. Check out the link to his blog on the left, "Scoring For Houston".
*EDIT* I misinterpreted a statement by Mr. Ferraro, and its all good. Check out the link to his blog on the left, "Scoring For Houston".
Tuesday, March 25, 2008
Miscellaneous Tuesday
- Ten Most Embarrassing Moments in Hockey
- Adrian Dater of the Denver Post pretty much agrees with most of Wild Nation.
- Here is the video of Patrick Roy's kid essentially assaulting Chicoutimi (Pierre-Marc Bouchard's former junior team) goalie Bobby Nadeau.
And here is a column about Roy possibly getting an NHL coaching gig at some point.
-And finally I got a new column up at FaceoffCircle.Net, concerning Benoit Pouliot.
- Adrian Dater of the Denver Post pretty much agrees with most of Wild Nation.
- Here is the video of Patrick Roy's kid essentially assaulting Chicoutimi (Pierre-Marc Bouchard's former junior team) goalie Bobby Nadeau.
And here is a column about Roy possibly getting an NHL coaching gig at some point.
-And finally I got a new column up at FaceoffCircle.Net, concerning Benoit Pouliot.
Monday, March 24, 2008
#77...CRUNCH TIME...Worshipping Jeff Spicoli
How on Earth could Minnesota not get up for this game?
I don't get it; everyone (except the players themselves) knew that this was a big game regardless of the opponent and yet they came out like this was going to be just a easy going game of Sunday Morning Shinny. And since the red hot Oilers came out skating, Nik Backstrom was chased 5 minutes into the game after giving up 3 quick goals. Thank god Colorado won, because tonight was a stinking debacle.
That pretty much did in Minnesota, despite scoring 3 goals themselves.
Jacques Lemaire's post game presser was vintage Lemaire; a cheshire cat grin that hinged between amused disbelief and a frustration that has him hurdling towards lunacy. He saw everything we saw; that they didn't come to play while Edmonton did, that the first 3 goals were so bad that he didn't want to see the video replay from Video Coach Matt Shaw, and that because the Wild just plain sucked tonight. And because of the nonchalant attitude toward a game of immense importance, Lemaire declared that he is now the law. He blasted the "preparation" of the players, and essentially declared that he is now the law; No more optional skates. Just the crack of the whip.
And the team needs it. I fail to comprehind that each player on that roster, whether they played tonight or not, did not fathom that EVERY GAME THIS TIME OF THE YEAR, ESPECIALLY CONSIDERING HOW TIGHT THE PLAYOFF AND DIVISIONAL RACE MATTERS. Its unacceptable plain and simple. Where's the hunger- there's no 2007-08 Northwest Division Champion Banner hanging from the rafters of the X, and there isn't even a guaranty that they are locks for the playoffs.
Now the chance to rectify the situation looms Wednesday, against the same Edmonton team that has embarrassed the Wild a few times this season, including tonight. Hopefully Lemaire's foot isn't so far up their ass that it affects their skating.
I don't get it; everyone (except the players themselves) knew that this was a big game regardless of the opponent and yet they came out like this was going to be just a easy going game of Sunday Morning Shinny. And since the red hot Oilers came out skating, Nik Backstrom was chased 5 minutes into the game after giving up 3 quick goals. Thank god Colorado won, because tonight was a stinking debacle.
That pretty much did in Minnesota, despite scoring 3 goals themselves.
Jacques Lemaire's post game presser was vintage Lemaire; a cheshire cat grin that hinged between amused disbelief and a frustration that has him hurdling towards lunacy. He saw everything we saw; that they didn't come to play while Edmonton did, that the first 3 goals were so bad that he didn't want to see the video replay from Video Coach Matt Shaw, and that because the Wild just plain sucked tonight. And because of the nonchalant attitude toward a game of immense importance, Lemaire declared that he is now the law. He blasted the "preparation" of the players, and essentially declared that he is now the law; No more optional skates. Just the crack of the whip.
And the team needs it. I fail to comprehind that each player on that roster, whether they played tonight or not, did not fathom that EVERY GAME THIS TIME OF THE YEAR, ESPECIALLY CONSIDERING HOW TIGHT THE PLAYOFF AND DIVISIONAL RACE MATTERS. Its unacceptable plain and simple. Where's the hunger- there's no 2007-08 Northwest Division Champion Banner hanging from the rafters of the X, and there isn't even a guaranty that they are locks for the playoffs.
Now the chance to rectify the situation looms Wednesday, against the same Edmonton team that has embarrassed the Wild a few times this season, including tonight. Hopefully Lemaire's foot isn't so far up their ass that it affects their skating.
#75 and #76...CRUNCH TIME...Life Vegas
Since the only way I was afforded to catch up on the games against Calgary and Vancouver was by way of text message, I can't really have a decent opinion on it. The Win at Vancouver was huge obviously, and while the loss at Calgary stings, Minnesota scored 4 goals...4 GOALS on two from Kim Johnsson (!) and Benoit Pouliot's first two career points/goals. Jacques Lemaire was praising Pouliot in the Strib and Edmonton Sun think he's promising too, however Houston Aeros beat reporter Andrew Ferraro thought that Pouliot threw his Houston teammates Under the Bus. While it was still a loss, and again Jarome Iginla killed us, Minnesota still scored 4 goals. They haven't done that in what seems like ages. Hopefully they didn't score themselves out against an Edmonton team that just won't die; the Oil are just 3 points behind Colorado.
That brings me to the point of the post; Minnesota, coming off a huge win, and then a disappointing loss to Calgary, cannot afford to not get any sort of point tonight against what looks like a very resilient Edmonton team. To their credit, they have been decimated by injuries, but their youth (Gagner, Cogliano, Tom Gilbert, etc.) has put them in a position where they have a legit shot at sneaking in the playoffs. So, they are pesky; this isn't the same Oil team that we've steamrolled a few times this year, the Oilers are playing well, and with a purpose, and since Minnesota is atop the division, we got a bullseye on our backs. I'd be happy with a point- at this stage you have to get points, and obviously while you play to win (thank you Herm Edwards), you also are rooting for Colorado to knock off Calgary tonight. This is a big game tonight.
-Eric Belanger may return tonight; that probably means that Pavol Demitra will go to the wing, which means Mark Parrish could see alot of press box time. So now we have 4 legit centers; Koivu, Pouliot, Sheppard, and Belanger in time for the playoffs...Wasn't Parrish our captain this time last year?
-Mike Russo of the Strib said that Colton Gillies is in negotiations to sign a deal, and head to Houston. No word on Ondrej Fiala.
That brings me to the point of the post; Minnesota, coming off a huge win, and then a disappointing loss to Calgary, cannot afford to not get any sort of point tonight against what looks like a very resilient Edmonton team. To their credit, they have been decimated by injuries, but their youth (Gagner, Cogliano, Tom Gilbert, etc.) has put them in a position where they have a legit shot at sneaking in the playoffs. So, they are pesky; this isn't the same Oil team that we've steamrolled a few times this year, the Oilers are playing well, and with a purpose, and since Minnesota is atop the division, we got a bullseye on our backs. I'd be happy with a point- at this stage you have to get points, and obviously while you play to win (thank you Herm Edwards), you also are rooting for Colorado to knock off Calgary tonight. This is a big game tonight.
-Eric Belanger may return tonight; that probably means that Pavol Demitra will go to the wing, which means Mark Parrish could see alot of press box time. So now we have 4 legit centers; Koivu, Pouliot, Sheppard, and Belanger in time for the playoffs...Wasn't Parrish our captain this time last year?
-Mike Russo of the Strib said that Colton Gillies is in negotiations to sign a deal, and head to Houston. No word on Ondrej Fiala.
Thursday, March 20, 2008
#74...CRUNCH TIME...Tragedy and Resiliency
I'm glad to read that Kurtis Foster is doing ok after slamming into the boards; of course his season is over with surgery being needed to insert a rod into his leg to stabilize a displaced fracture, but I can say Wild Nation is relieved that its not a head injury of any kind (especially after seeing what happened to Tommy Pohl.) I felt that Torrey Mitchell gave Foster a shove, but it never seemed to be malicious, that all in all it was a freak accident, and I'd be surprised if Mitchell got any sort of punishment from the league.
Now, that being said, someone from Houston is going to get the call up; Mike Russo mentioned that Erik Reitz, Shawn Belle, and Clayton Stoner were the leading candidates, but I've also read that Reitz has an undisclosed injury. I'd like to see Stoner up here because he's been playing great hockey with the Aeros lately, and is physical; however, I just can't see The Wild calling up someone with no NHL experience, especially for the last 8 games, very important games at that. Expect Shawn Belle to get the nod; especially now that he's become more positionally sound.
Personally, the only real loss with Foster's season-ending injury is that our depth on the blueline is affected; I don't even know if Petteri Nummelin is around anymore (injured), but now you are down to Keith Carney and Sean Hill, which I am ok with, and despite Carney's shaky play this year, would prefer over Foster and/or Nummelin. I like Carney's experience, and think that Sean Hill should be able to get some rhythm in the final few games enough to play solid. Hill, if he doesn't go chase someone to hit them, would be a nice consistent physical presence on the back end; all this hinges on who the call-up is, and how they play.
As far as last night's game goes, I find it hard to be disappointed about losing in a shootout to San Jose. Yes, its tough whenever you lose, however I think the main point is that you were able to score with 30 seconds left to answer a late Sharks goal (Joe Pavelski at 2:00 left in the 3rd) to force overtime and get at least a point against the hottest team in the league. Points, whether one or two, are key this time of year, and now the Wild is 3 points up on Calgary, Vancouver, and Colorado, although Vancouver and Calgary have a game in hand. Minnesota now has a really great chance to add to that lead when they play the Flames and Nucks this weekend.
*LATE EDIT* Turns out that Erik Reitz has a High Ankle Sprain and is out another couple of weeks. So it looks like its between Belle and Stoner.
Now, that being said, someone from Houston is going to get the call up; Mike Russo mentioned that Erik Reitz, Shawn Belle, and Clayton Stoner were the leading candidates, but I've also read that Reitz has an undisclosed injury. I'd like to see Stoner up here because he's been playing great hockey with the Aeros lately, and is physical; however, I just can't see The Wild calling up someone with no NHL experience, especially for the last 8 games, very important games at that. Expect Shawn Belle to get the nod; especially now that he's become more positionally sound.
Personally, the only real loss with Foster's season-ending injury is that our depth on the blueline is affected; I don't even know if Petteri Nummelin is around anymore (injured), but now you are down to Keith Carney and Sean Hill, which I am ok with, and despite Carney's shaky play this year, would prefer over Foster and/or Nummelin. I like Carney's experience, and think that Sean Hill should be able to get some rhythm in the final few games enough to play solid. Hill, if he doesn't go chase someone to hit them, would be a nice consistent physical presence on the back end; all this hinges on who the call-up is, and how they play.
As far as last night's game goes, I find it hard to be disappointed about losing in a shootout to San Jose. Yes, its tough whenever you lose, however I think the main point is that you were able to score with 30 seconds left to answer a late Sharks goal (Joe Pavelski at 2:00 left in the 3rd) to force overtime and get at least a point against the hottest team in the league. Points, whether one or two, are key this time of year, and now the Wild is 3 points up on Calgary, Vancouver, and Colorado, although Vancouver and Calgary have a game in hand. Minnesota now has a really great chance to add to that lead when they play the Flames and Nucks this weekend.
*LATE EDIT* Turns out that Erik Reitz has a High Ankle Sprain and is out another couple of weeks. So it looks like its between Belle and Stoner.
Wednesday, March 19, 2008
Another Tom Pohl Update
Pioneer Press Update
Pohl's been moved out of ICU, is listed in fair condition, and his prognosis is "favorable." This is good news, and may add to the spark the Gophers have after coming out on top of the epic Mankato series.
I added a new column to faceoffcircle.net, which you find Here.
Pohl's been moved out of ICU, is listed in fair condition, and his prognosis is "favorable." This is good news, and may add to the spark the Gophers have after coming out on top of the epic Mankato series.
I added a new column to faceoffcircle.net, which you find Here.
Tuesday, March 18, 2008
GIllies/Fiala Watch:
At last night's Awards Banquet for the Saskatoon Blades, Minnesota's 2007 1st round pick Colton Gillies took home two awards; The Award For the Being the Most Community Minded Player, and the Most Valuable Player for the 2007-08 Season.
Minnesota's 2nd round pick in 2006, Ondrej Fiala, received the Dr. Pat Bobyn Memorial Trophy for being the top scorer.
Now that the Team Wrap is over, look for these two to be Houston bound.
Monday, March 17, 2008
#73...CRUNCH TIME...The Burns Supremacy
Watching the game tonight on the lovely Versus network, you would have thought that Minnesota, who was tied with Colorado for the Division lead, had just upset the Avalanche by the way the announcers and then the triumvirate of Keith Jones, Brian Engblom (the hair!), and Bill Patrick cooed about Peter Forsberg and Joe Sakic and how they couldn't put more than one goal past Wild Goalie Niklas Backstrom. Aside from the talk about the development of Brent Burns, it seemed like the whole broadcast was meant for the Denver market. (Even TSN had the score listed as "Colorado 1, Minnesota 3")
They were justified in their talk about Burns; a goal, an assist, and solid (and physical) defensive play tonight. When you see the kid, who still developing as an NHL defenseman, already has 40 points and is still showing flashes of dominance...Burns is just scratching the surface of what he can and will do for the Wild Franchise. And to think that people went "Who?!?" when Minnesota took him 20th overall in 2003...
The Wild had 30 hits tonight, which is a season-high, including a rather large collision that was Derek Boogaard's grand re-entrance to the lineup. They played well, although the one thing that causes some concern is that if Minnesota gets into penalty trouble early, it could seriously affect the centers. Mikko Koivu has become the Clydesdale that Jacques Lemaire has attached the team to- he's being used in every situation, on every line, in what seems like every other shift. Now, that being said, being Minnesota's top penalty killer, if Koivu is constantly out there, he'll wear down (if that's possible), while the kids (James Sheppard and Benoit Pouliot, both of whom were very good tonight) are going to be bench-ridden until 5-on-5 play resumes- now if its like tonight, that may be a while. Its important to get those two involved early, to get a feel and build off of it. Maybe this is nothing, but I guess its something to look for.
But really when it boils down to it, its a regulation win where the Wild scored 3 goals, and got a great effort from Backstrom, who is quietly putting up some nice numbers; 28 wins, and is 5-1-3 in his last 9 with a paltry 1.73 GAA. All this and being it was over Colorado, who we were tied with for the Division lead, and maybe a nice boost for crunch time.
-With the Saskatoon Blades' season ending on the 15th, there is a very strong possibility that Ondrej Fiala (40th overall, 2006) and Colton Gillies (16th overall, 2007) will join Houston via either contract or by signing an Amateur Try-Out. I emailed Mike Russo about it, and he contacted Tom Lynn, Wild Assistant GM and Houston Aeros GM, and he said "we will know in the next 48 hours." Russo took this as a yes they will.
They were justified in their talk about Burns; a goal, an assist, and solid (and physical) defensive play tonight. When you see the kid, who still developing as an NHL defenseman, already has 40 points and is still showing flashes of dominance...Burns is just scratching the surface of what he can and will do for the Wild Franchise. And to think that people went "Who?!?" when Minnesota took him 20th overall in 2003...
The Wild had 30 hits tonight, which is a season-high, including a rather large collision that was Derek Boogaard's grand re-entrance to the lineup. They played well, although the one thing that causes some concern is that if Minnesota gets into penalty trouble early, it could seriously affect the centers. Mikko Koivu has become the Clydesdale that Jacques Lemaire has attached the team to- he's being used in every situation, on every line, in what seems like every other shift. Now, that being said, being Minnesota's top penalty killer, if Koivu is constantly out there, he'll wear down (if that's possible), while the kids (James Sheppard and Benoit Pouliot, both of whom were very good tonight) are going to be bench-ridden until 5-on-5 play resumes- now if its like tonight, that may be a while. Its important to get those two involved early, to get a feel and build off of it. Maybe this is nothing, but I guess its something to look for.
But really when it boils down to it, its a regulation win where the Wild scored 3 goals, and got a great effort from Backstrom, who is quietly putting up some nice numbers; 28 wins, and is 5-1-3 in his last 9 with a paltry 1.73 GAA. All this and being it was over Colorado, who we were tied with for the Division lead, and maybe a nice boost for crunch time.
-With the Saskatoon Blades' season ending on the 15th, there is a very strong possibility that Ondrej Fiala (40th overall, 2006) and Colton Gillies (16th overall, 2007) will join Houston via either contract or by signing an Amateur Try-Out. I emailed Mike Russo about it, and he contacted Tom Lynn, Wild Assistant GM and Houston Aeros GM, and he said "we will know in the next 48 hours." Russo took this as a yes they will.
Tommy Pohl Update
http://www.startribune.com/sports/gophers/16749081.html
Pohl is in stable condition following surgery to help a fractured skull and stop the bleeding. Again, Our thoughts are with Tom, his family, and his teammates.
Here is a short take on the incident.
Here is a short take on the incident.
Pohl is in stable condition following surgery to help a fractured skull and stop the bleeding. Again, Our thoughts are with Tom, his family, and his teammates.
Here is a short take on the incident.
Here is a short take on the incident.
Sunday, March 16, 2008
Givin' Dap
With Tony Lucia's goal in the 2nd Overtime tonight, The Minnesota Golden Gophers ended a series with Minnesota State Mankato that will forever go down in hockey lore. The series went 14 periods, with the goaltenders (Alex Kangas for the U and Mike Zacharias for MSU) giving up just 9 goals total. Kudos go to everyone involved, and let's all hope for the best for Tommy Pohl, who was taken off on a stretcher and airlifted to the hospital after a brutal check by Maverick Jason Wiley; the latest report was a broken nose and a concussion.
Truly a fun and compelling series to watch however, and I'm just tired after watching it all.
Speaking of playoff series, here is Boston College's Nathan Gerbe's penalty shot against Providence.
And thanks to Mike Russo, This Blog is now on the "blogroll" on the Russo's Rants page. We're going Hollywood baby!
Truly a fun and compelling series to watch however, and I'm just tired after watching it all.
Speaking of playoff series, here is Boston College's Nathan Gerbe's penalty shot against Providence.
And thanks to Mike Russo, This Blog is now on the "blogroll" on the Russo's Rants page. We're going Hollywood baby!
#72...False Pretenses
On a day where people celebrated St. Patrick's Day (because the Pope says so), Minnesota blanked the LA Kings 2-0. Now, considering that St. Patrick's Day is March 17th every year, you can say that the holiday (or the excessive imbibing that goes with it) was celebrated under false pretenses because it was, indeed, not St. Patty's. You could make a case that there really shouldn't be any real moral victory for blanking the Los Angeles Kings, the worst team in the league and hence the leading party in the Steven Stamkos Sweepstakes, last night.
I understand that we won for the first time in 5 games (ironically against LA, in overtime no less), but this is LA. We should beat LA 7 days a week, including twice on Sunday; yes, they do have a nice little core of talent which will make them scary down the road, but speaking in the present tense, this is a game that Minnesota should win. So, that being said, why should we get worked into a frenzy over a victory over the lowly Kings?
We scored 2 goals, again by the usual suspects (Rolston, and congrats to Marian Gaborik and his Demitra-like dome on his 200th career goal); now, either Eric Ensberg is that good (considering how he's played Minnesota, you could make the case that he is pretty solid) or its another chapter in the sob story of how we can't score any more than 2 goals a game. That, in turn, makes the game much closer than it really should be, despite whether or not The Wild dictate the play or not.
In all honesty, I caught most of the game, but I did spend considerable amounts of time watching Game 2 in the Epic (and I mean epic) Minnesota/Mankato series; I am positively ramped up for the deciding Game 3 tonight. That being said, I did see the first goal by Rolston, but also saw some nice physical presence by guys like Mikko Koivu, Todd Fedoruk, and Aaron Voros.
To me, this is important; considering the immense value of the last 10 games, it is imperative that Minnesota plays with a physical edge; not so much that they need to create space (which they do), but a consistent physical presence means that you can make the opponent pretty miserable when people are getting shoulders buried into their jersey crests. Now, not only does this keep players engaged, but it also will put the remaining opponents ( nearly all divisional teams) into the mindset that Minnesota will come out and hit, and that may create some hesitancy and maybe some scared play, which can lead to turnovers, chances, blah blah blah.
You get the picture.
I thought Benoit Pouliot played well; I like him at center because it increases the amount of touches he'll have with the puck, which will not only keep him engaged, but allow him to use his talent. Despite what seems like an easy ride to the big club without deserving it (just 24 points in Houston), I think he will be better off here with more talented linemates (Voros and Fedoruk aside on 4th line duty) and with Jacques Lemaire being able to be more hands on. And Pouliot himself would be silly to think that this wasn't his chance to make a statement about what he can do.
- As far as the Chris Pronger suspension goes...I'm disappointed, along with many others. Pierre Maguire (Mr. Peanut!) and "Mad" Mike Milbury had a nice "exchange" about it during the intermission of NBC's NHL Game of the Week (yet another tilt between two east coast markets). If I can get some youtubage of it I will, but essentially Maguire said because it "was retaliatory rather than predatory" was why he only got 8 games. Milbury countered that the decision was political (?), and that essentially Pronger should be held to the same standard that Chris Simon was held too. Simon is apparently pretty pissed about it too. But anyway you cut it, Pronger basically gets to rest up for the playoffs (and sharpen his elbows...)
I understand that we won for the first time in 5 games (ironically against LA, in overtime no less), but this is LA. We should beat LA 7 days a week, including twice on Sunday; yes, they do have a nice little core of talent which will make them scary down the road, but speaking in the present tense, this is a game that Minnesota should win. So, that being said, why should we get worked into a frenzy over a victory over the lowly Kings?
We scored 2 goals, again by the usual suspects (Rolston, and congrats to Marian Gaborik and his Demitra-like dome on his 200th career goal); now, either Eric Ensberg is that good (considering how he's played Minnesota, you could make the case that he is pretty solid) or its another chapter in the sob story of how we can't score any more than 2 goals a game. That, in turn, makes the game much closer than it really should be, despite whether or not The Wild dictate the play or not.
In all honesty, I caught most of the game, but I did spend considerable amounts of time watching Game 2 in the Epic (and I mean epic) Minnesota/Mankato series; I am positively ramped up for the deciding Game 3 tonight. That being said, I did see the first goal by Rolston, but also saw some nice physical presence by guys like Mikko Koivu, Todd Fedoruk, and Aaron Voros.
To me, this is important; considering the immense value of the last 10 games, it is imperative that Minnesota plays with a physical edge; not so much that they need to create space (which they do), but a consistent physical presence means that you can make the opponent pretty miserable when people are getting shoulders buried into their jersey crests. Now, not only does this keep players engaged, but it also will put the remaining opponents ( nearly all divisional teams) into the mindset that Minnesota will come out and hit, and that may create some hesitancy and maybe some scared play, which can lead to turnovers, chances, blah blah blah.
You get the picture.
I thought Benoit Pouliot played well; I like him at center because it increases the amount of touches he'll have with the puck, which will not only keep him engaged, but allow him to use his talent. Despite what seems like an easy ride to the big club without deserving it (just 24 points in Houston), I think he will be better off here with more talented linemates (Voros and Fedoruk aside on 4th line duty) and with Jacques Lemaire being able to be more hands on. And Pouliot himself would be silly to think that this wasn't his chance to make a statement about what he can do.
- As far as the Chris Pronger suspension goes...I'm disappointed, along with many others. Pierre Maguire (Mr. Peanut!) and "Mad" Mike Milbury had a nice "exchange" about it during the intermission of NBC's NHL Game of the Week (yet another tilt between two east coast markets). If I can get some youtubage of it I will, but essentially Maguire said because it "was retaliatory rather than predatory" was why he only got 8 games. Milbury countered that the decision was political (?), and that essentially Pronger should be held to the same standard that Chris Simon was held too. Simon is apparently pretty pissed about it too. But anyway you cut it, Pronger basically gets to rest up for the playoffs (and sharpen his elbows...)
Friday, March 14, 2008
#71...Same Old Song and Dance
What was your favorite moment from the Steve Kelly era? Could it be his debut against San Jose? Or his 2nd game here against New Jersey? Well, that's all you got to choose from since he's now out indefinitely with an ankle injury (what's that? We don't need center depth, remember?), and everyone's favorite polarizing prospect Benoit Pouliot is now in town, presumably for the long haul. Deep down I think Jacques Lemaire is delighted to now work with Pouliot hands-on, although looking down the middle we have Koivu, 2 rookies, and a Slovak that doesn't like to play center (Demitra).
That's where we are at now, especially with the playoffs looming.
Well, did anyone feel comfortable last night with a 2-0 lead? Or a 3-2 lead? How bout our chances in the shootout?
It is what it is; another point via shootout loss, another series of blown leads, and another division opponent leap frogging ahead to the top of the Division (Colorado.)
Last Night I was lucky enough to be seated directly in front of a quartet of loud, gossipy, Skoula-hating, cackling hen-like girls who just so happened to have brought in an air-horn.
You could imagine my enthusiasm.
Now that a second version, a much more clear version of the Chris Pronger Stomp/Zapruder tape has surfaced, Mr. Pronger (according to radio reports) has been suspended indefinitely and has face to face meeting with Colin Campbell, the Czar of Discipline. In my opinion, anything less than 20 games is a complete mockery.
That's where we are at now, especially with the playoffs looming.
Well, did anyone feel comfortable last night with a 2-0 lead? Or a 3-2 lead? How bout our chances in the shootout?
It is what it is; another point via shootout loss, another series of blown leads, and another division opponent leap frogging ahead to the top of the Division (Colorado.)
Last Night I was lucky enough to be seated directly in front of a quartet of loud, gossipy, Skoula-hating, cackling hen-like girls who just so happened to have brought in an air-horn.
You could imagine my enthusiasm.
Now that a second version, a much more clear version of the Chris Pronger Stomp/Zapruder tape has surfaced, Mr. Pronger (according to radio reports) has been suspended indefinitely and has face to face meeting with Colin Campbell, the Czar of Discipline. In my opinion, anything less than 20 games is a complete mockery.
Thursday, March 13, 2008
Way to drop the ball fellas...
Remember this?
Ya, we all know that Chris Simon got a 30 game suspension.
So...I bring you this...
That would be Chris Pronger stomping on the calf of Vancouver's Ryan Kesler. Not a whole lot different between the two incidents right?
Except this.
http://www.tsn.ca/nhl/news_story/?ID=231940&hubname=nhl
No disciplinary action for Pronger, A REPEAT OFFENDER WHO HAS BEEN SUSPENDED 7 TIMES DURING HIS NHL CAREER. This goes to show that some get star treatment in this league, in more ways than one.
Ya, we all know that Chris Simon got a 30 game suspension.
So...I bring you this...
That would be Chris Pronger stomping on the calf of Vancouver's Ryan Kesler. Not a whole lot different between the two incidents right?
Except this.
http://www.tsn.ca/nhl/news_story/?ID=231940&hubname=nhl
No disciplinary action for Pronger, A REPEAT OFFENDER WHO HAS BEEN SUSPENDED 7 TIMES DURING HIS NHL CAREER. This goes to show that some get star treatment in this league, in more ways than one.
Wednesday, March 12, 2008
Ya Jim, we get it.
http://www.startribune.com/sports/wild/16582126.html
It'll never happen, just watch high school and college hockey instead.
And I found these, showing that I'm not the only Jim Souhan fan...
http://mngameday.blogspot.com/2008/02/souhans-lazy-journalism_10.html
http://deadspin.com/sports/hometown-columnists/why-your-hometown-columnist-sucks-jim-souhan-135924.php
http://pacifistviking.blogspot.com/2007/08/deja-vu-jim-souhan-makes-unfunny-jokes.html
It'll never happen, just watch high school and college hockey instead.
And I found these, showing that I'm not the only Jim Souhan fan...
http://mngameday.blogspot.com/2008/02/souhans-lazy-journalism_10.html
http://deadspin.com/sports/hometown-columnists/why-your-hometown-columnist-sucks-jim-souhan-135924.php
http://pacifistviking.blogspot.com/2007/08/deja-vu-jim-souhan-makes-unfunny-jokes.html
Tuesday, March 11, 2008
Monday, March 10, 2008
#70...Shark Chum
"forget a bigger boat, the damn sharks put me to sleep!"
What a frustratingly boring game. I can understand why the San Jose Sharks are the best road team in the game, and from the looks of it, a real contender for the cup. Jesus. The Wild went 13 minutes in the third period (nearly all of it was non-stop play, very few stoppages) before getting a shot, and ultimately, in some sort of twisted version of karma, finally got a bounce to tie the game with about 25 seconds left.
The Sharks clogged up the neutral zone, and all collapse around the net if the Wild ever gained the zone, then they were faced with trying to shoot at the net through the entire San Jose roster. Its effective, but for the love of everything holy, it makes for a very unentertaining and frustrating game.
Unfortunately, that's now the formula en vogue for playoff success.
Yesterday marked the debut of Steve Kelly, the call-up for Eric Belanger, and his broken toe. He played some in the first period (well, I thought), got 2 shifts in the second, and that was it.
Why was he even called up then? I'm sure he'll get a few more shifts, since Belanger is basically out indefinitely.
Ya, twas a crappy call that led to Tomas Plihal's penalty shot attempt in the first. I know it, you know it, Lemaire knew it, the league knows it (although they intentionally put vague language in the rules to guard the judgment of the official), the crowd knew it, the Sharks knew it, we all know it.
What really irks me is that Niklas Backstrom cannot make a save in that situation to save his life. Plihal, Pavelski, and Marleau owned his ass. He's got less than a 50% save percentage for his career, and truth to be told, I wouldn't be surprised if it was less than that. You want to cheer for the game to end in regulation or overtime just because there is little to no confidence going into the shootout.
I'll give credit to Jacques Lemaire for being defiant against what is becoming popular opinion (whether its true or not is in question, although the needle is falling closer toward "truth" every game) that Minnesota just plain sucks. He's taking the hit, especially from what has become a largely malcontented Wild Nation, Media types, and passers-by, but he is standing up for his team, and defending them because they are presumably doing the things that he wants them to do. Apparently he was the only one awake to see that they worked hard, and well, what can you do when the opponent stacks itself up in the neutral zone and in front of the goal?
But the fact is that this is what he has to do; he has to keep his team on the positive, despite how negative and grim things look. Lemaire knows this fragile team is on the verge of shattering at any time; but what else can he do to help?
Tonight on FSN is a replay of the Houston/Hartford game where Benoit Pouliot's face gets busted, and jaw gets broken. Turns out he scored the game winner last night against Rochester, and I wouldn't be surprised if he gets another cup of coffee up here before season's end. The game is on at 7.
Sunday, March 9, 2008
Funny enough, no suspension
Watch as Dane Byers of Hartford takes the much-maligned Benoit Pouliot and slam his head into the ice a couple times. Pouliot suffered a broken nose.
Saturday, March 8, 2008
#69...Burned down in Atlanta
Isn't it just criminal that we have sucked something serious since the New Year, and yet we are still at the top of the division (tied, or a game behind, or something. Calgary has a game in hand, but we have more wins, so I think they are leading. I think.)
Man...we blew two 1-goal leads, and then lose in the shootout. Sheesh. At least we got a point, right?
-Congrats to Brent Burns, who became the all-time leader for points by a Defenseman for a season. I'm sure he'll hang on to that title for a while. Also, congrats to Marian Gaborik for getting his 400th point last night on an assist.
-Props to Eric Belanger for taking the Ilya Kovalchuk slapshot in the foot all in the name of defense. However, if he can't go, expect Serge Payer (sure), Steve Kelly (no!), or Benoit Pouliot (why not) to be called up.
-Mark Parrish = healthy scratch, the first since his rookie year. When it rains it pours; first his ice time dwindles, he then gets called out by Lemaire and Risebrough, and now a healthy scratch. Ouch.
-It looks like Aaron Voros is back on track, after a 2 and a half month scoring hiatus. We need that sort of shit-disturbing type of player come playoff time (if we get there)
-How bout that Benilde/Edina game last night? Much more riveting to watch than the debacle in Atlanta.
-funny enough, Strib writer Mike Russo is taking the blame for the loss last night:
http://ww3.startribune.com/blogs/wildblog/2008/03/07/parrish-scratched-2/
Man...we blew two 1-goal leads, and then lose in the shootout. Sheesh. At least we got a point, right?
-Congrats to Brent Burns, who became the all-time leader for points by a Defenseman for a season. I'm sure he'll hang on to that title for a while. Also, congrats to Marian Gaborik for getting his 400th point last night on an assist.
-Props to Eric Belanger for taking the Ilya Kovalchuk slapshot in the foot all in the name of defense. However, if he can't go, expect Serge Payer (sure), Steve Kelly (no!), or Benoit Pouliot (why not) to be called up.
-Mark Parrish = healthy scratch, the first since his rookie year. When it rains it pours; first his ice time dwindles, he then gets called out by Lemaire and Risebrough, and now a healthy scratch. Ouch.
-It looks like Aaron Voros is back on track, after a 2 and a half month scoring hiatus. We need that sort of shit-disturbing type of player come playoff time (if we get there)
-How bout that Benilde/Edina game last night? Much more riveting to watch than the debacle in Atlanta.
-funny enough, Strib writer Mike Russo is taking the blame for the loss last night:
http://ww3.startribune.com/blogs/wildblog/2008/03/07/parrish-scratched-2/
Friday, March 7, 2008
Alternate Jersey Prattle
This is from Boston...
And this is from Pittsburgh...(the same jerseys from the Heritage Classic)
http://www.pittsburghlive.com/x/pittsburghtrib/sports/penguins/s_545107.html?source=rss&feed=12
There is some speculation floating around the interlink (take it with a big grain of salt) about what teams will be getting alternate (3rd jerseys) this fall, and what they will be; Here is what's been said so far.
Atlanta: will be going back to use a lot more of the red from their original uniforms.
Boston: will use the vintage BRUINS with bear logo.
Buffalo: vintage blue, like 06/07.
Carolina: black, shoulder patch will be main logo.
Chicago: black, like the previous one.
Dallas: a white version of the black one they wear now.
Edmonton: vintage, with laces.
LA: can't recall if it was black or purple, but will use the LA logo.
Minnesota: as most have said, green with MINNESOTA on it like the old Avs thirds.
NY Isles: vintage.
Ottawa: GOLD, with Sens across the front.
Philly: orange. looked kind of vintage, couldn't tell if it was the 80s version or the 70s version.
Phoenix: black, with a full coyote.
Pittsburgh: winter classic jersey.
San Jose: black.
St. Louis: navy
Tampa: navy with Bolts on the front.
Toronto: the vintage white third from the past
Vancouver: vintage.
Really, all the organization can think of is a green jersey with a Minnesota script? Come on. Granted we haven't seen it, but that sounds boring and trite.
They could only hope to play like Roseau...
I guess the part of it that really sticks in my craw is how "The State of Hockey" has no say, or input. What about fan submissions, then the organization will narrow it down to 10, and then "The State of Hockey" can vote on it. You know, instead of telling us that "you are the greatest hockey fans in the world", how about you let us participate in something tangible, besides spending our hard-earned cash on overpriced beer and escalating ticket prices. Let us be involved; we're the people who will be buying the jerseys when they come out.
State of Hockey my ass...
And this is from Pittsburgh...(the same jerseys from the Heritage Classic)
http://www.pittsburghlive.com/x/pittsburghtrib/sports/penguins/s_545107.html?source=rss&feed=12
There is some speculation floating around the interlink (take it with a big grain of salt) about what teams will be getting alternate (3rd jerseys) this fall, and what they will be; Here is what's been said so far.
Atlanta: will be going back to use a lot more of the red from their original uniforms.
Boston: will use the vintage BRUINS with bear logo.
Buffalo: vintage blue, like 06/07.
Carolina: black, shoulder patch will be main logo.
Chicago: black, like the previous one.
Dallas: a white version of the black one they wear now.
Edmonton: vintage, with laces.
LA: can't recall if it was black or purple, but will use the LA logo.
Minnesota: as most have said, green with MINNESOTA on it like the old Avs thirds.
NY Isles: vintage.
Ottawa: GOLD, with Sens across the front.
Philly: orange. looked kind of vintage, couldn't tell if it was the 80s version or the 70s version.
Phoenix: black, with a full coyote.
Pittsburgh: winter classic jersey.
San Jose: black.
St. Louis: navy
Tampa: navy with Bolts on the front.
Toronto: the vintage white third from the past
Vancouver: vintage.
Really, all the organization can think of is a green jersey with a Minnesota script? Come on. Granted we haven't seen it, but that sounds boring and trite.
They could only hope to play like Roseau...
I guess the part of it that really sticks in my craw is how "The State of Hockey" has no say, or input. What about fan submissions, then the organization will narrow it down to 10, and then "The State of Hockey" can vote on it. You know, instead of telling us that "you are the greatest hockey fans in the world", how about you let us participate in something tangible, besides spending our hard-earned cash on overpriced beer and escalating ticket prices. Let us be involved; we're the people who will be buying the jerseys when they come out.
State of Hockey my ass...
#68...And I'm going to Carolina
...and the power play will continue to suck, but it doesn't matter because we keep taking penalties when we have the man advantage.
That sums it up. For a time (well, not the time when the Hurricanes took a 2-0 lead because I was beginning to think that we were going to be a complete dud) I thought the Wild were on the right track; they scored with under two minutes left in the first to make it 2-1; anytime you score with under two minutes left that can mean alot for the next period. Which it did, when Aaron Voros (first point since 12/26) no-look, between the legs pass to Mikko Koivu (#1 on Sportscenter's Top Ten Plays) made it 2-2. Since its pretty rare these days that Minnesota comes back from a deficit (seriously, when was the last time they did that? I'm talking multi-goal deficits here, I know they were down 1-0 to LA), one could presume that the momentum had swung in our favor.
We kept marching to the penalty box, but we kept on killing those penalties (including a dandy of a shorthanded chance with Branko Radivojevic and Martin Skoula.) The Aaron Voros kerfuffle was a weird deal, I'm glad Eric Staal was alright, but Voros did let up on him. And to this minute, I still don't know why Keith Carney was ejected.
We had the chance to tie the game, but considering how poor the top-line guys played, Jacques Lemaire sent out the checking line for the first minute of the power play, which was an attempted message and also a wasted minute of the man advantage.
It didn't matter, considering they pissed it away with another penalty taken during the power play.
Again this team is in a tailspin, a perilous endeavour considering the Season's hourglass is draining rapidly.
*EDIT* GM Doug Risebrough will be on Chad Hartman's radio show on KFAN at 2:20, you can listen to it online at www.kfan.com
That sums it up. For a time (well, not the time when the Hurricanes took a 2-0 lead because I was beginning to think that we were going to be a complete dud) I thought the Wild were on the right track; they scored with under two minutes left in the first to make it 2-1; anytime you score with under two minutes left that can mean alot for the next period. Which it did, when Aaron Voros (first point since 12/26) no-look, between the legs pass to Mikko Koivu (#1 on Sportscenter's Top Ten Plays) made it 2-2. Since its pretty rare these days that Minnesota comes back from a deficit (seriously, when was the last time they did that? I'm talking multi-goal deficits here, I know they were down 1-0 to LA), one could presume that the momentum had swung in our favor.
We kept marching to the penalty box, but we kept on killing those penalties (including a dandy of a shorthanded chance with Branko Radivojevic and Martin Skoula.) The Aaron Voros kerfuffle was a weird deal, I'm glad Eric Staal was alright, but Voros did let up on him. And to this minute, I still don't know why Keith Carney was ejected.
We had the chance to tie the game, but considering how poor the top-line guys played, Jacques Lemaire sent out the checking line for the first minute of the power play, which was an attempted message and also a wasted minute of the man advantage.
It didn't matter, considering they pissed it away with another penalty taken during the power play.
Again this team is in a tailspin, a perilous endeavour considering the Season's hourglass is draining rapidly.
*EDIT* GM Doug Risebrough will be on Chad Hartman's radio show on KFAN at 2:20, you can listen to it online at www.kfan.com
Wednesday, March 5, 2008
#67...The Omen
It was the defining moment to me; a Chicago defenseman fumbling the puck at the Wild Blueline (you could say he got his Skoula on), and off goes Pavol Demitra and Marian Gaborik toward goalie Patrick Lalime, with no Blackhawk in their path, nor their sight.
And they got too cute.
I'll give credit to Demitra, he owned up after the game that he should have taken the shot, which stood as a really good scoring chance, especially when you could use a 34-goal-scoring Gaborik as a colossal decoy. Normally people would laud a player for making an unselfish play; no one likes to see a puck hog on their favorite team. Needless to say, Demitra's pass was out of Gaborik's wheel house, although it didn't matter because Lalime had the play read like 13 year old boy with his Dad's Playboy stash.
Things didn't get any better after that. I thought Minnesota came out with some pep in their step; they controlled the play, they hit, they were engaged; sure there was some let down when Chicago's first goal, a complete fluke, took place. Not much you can do, although one can yearn for that sort of fortune. Duncan Keith's tap-in (or tap-down), made it 2-1, and things looked grim, because frankly, Minnesota's forgotten how to score.
They did move the puck well, and they did get some great chances (James Sheppard had 3 alone), but either they couldn't execute, or Lalime would make a great save. The power play, well, sigh...
It was a wonderful showcase for puck movement, and control. They dominated the perimeter, even for entire 2 minutes. But somehow, in the midst of all the passing, they forgot to shoot, or go to the net. Even with guys like Mark Parrish, Chris Simon, Todd Fedoruk, James Sheppard, or Branko Radivojevic parked right in front of Patrick Lalime. Instead there was countless attempt after attempt at the perfect play, a lost cause that for many nights, The Wild still pursues. At least some lines had the right idea; Stephane Veilleux's goal was a product of Eric Belanger busting in on the net.
And just like that, Calgary won, and is now tied for the Division lead.
And they got too cute.
I'll give credit to Demitra, he owned up after the game that he should have taken the shot, which stood as a really good scoring chance, especially when you could use a 34-goal-scoring Gaborik as a colossal decoy. Normally people would laud a player for making an unselfish play; no one likes to see a puck hog on their favorite team. Needless to say, Demitra's pass was out of Gaborik's wheel house, although it didn't matter because Lalime had the play read like 13 year old boy with his Dad's Playboy stash.
Things didn't get any better after that. I thought Minnesota came out with some pep in their step; they controlled the play, they hit, they were engaged; sure there was some let down when Chicago's first goal, a complete fluke, took place. Not much you can do, although one can yearn for that sort of fortune. Duncan Keith's tap-in (or tap-down), made it 2-1, and things looked grim, because frankly, Minnesota's forgotten how to score.
They did move the puck well, and they did get some great chances (James Sheppard had 3 alone), but either they couldn't execute, or Lalime would make a great save. The power play, well, sigh...
It was a wonderful showcase for puck movement, and control. They dominated the perimeter, even for entire 2 minutes. But somehow, in the midst of all the passing, they forgot to shoot, or go to the net. Even with guys like Mark Parrish, Chris Simon, Todd Fedoruk, James Sheppard, or Branko Radivojevic parked right in front of Patrick Lalime. Instead there was countless attempt after attempt at the perfect play, a lost cause that for many nights, The Wild still pursues. At least some lines had the right idea; Stephane Veilleux's goal was a product of Eric Belanger busting in on the net.
And just like that, Calgary won, and is now tied for the Division lead.
Monday, March 3, 2008
#66...First they wanna diss me...
...now they ask me if they can kiss me.
I can't help but be excited for Martin Skoula, who is without a doubt, the number 1 whipping boy for Wild Nation. People gasp, moan, bitch, complain, yell, cry, scream, and go nuts when he is even on the ice, much less handling the puck. Yes, he can have some rather spectacular gaffes (that's our Skoula!), but ever since he was scratched for two games earlier in the year, he has been a rock. He is really playing well; granted he was never overtly physical, but he is very good as using his size and mobility to gain position or to negate a rush, and he does throw the occasional baby hipcheck out there from time to time. He was very good in Tampa, and last night I couldn't help but watch him whenever he was on the ice; he was really good, especially moving the puck and getting 5 shots on goal.
You could see how genuine that emotion was when he scored, and you could see that everyone of his teammates was incredibly happy for him. I'll touch on this later down the road, but the play of Skoula and Kim Johnsson as a pairing could be a big reason the Wild could succeed in the playoffs (assuming we make them, considering how fortunes can change overnight in the Western Conference and the Northwest Division.)
So good for him, alot of people are probably backpeddling on their Skoula Stance.
Now, watching this game last night (from the comfort of the club level, an experience I recommend to everyone), just watching the play of Minnesota has me concerned; not so much that they played bad (LA had a fire under their asses), but their style of play. I just don't know how far a finesse based skating team can go, especially in the West. I get that Niklas Backstrom is responding kindly to the increased playing time (it shows, especially last night), and our defense is playing very well (i.e. Johnsson and Skoula), but they just don't have the consistent physical presence out there to create space for their skill; even with guys like Simon, Fedoruk, Veilleux, and Voros (who was scratched), there was very little hitting going on last night. I know that guys can step up (Burns and Schultz can be very physical), but I think we may just see a rerun of last year's debacle because we lack that physical edge, despite some of the pieces in place, that defines the playoffs. To me, it makes it that much more important for future grinders like Cal Clutterbuck and Colton Gillies to make a push for a roster spot next year, because I feel that those two can bring the very thing that I think this year's roster lacks, an "in your face" sort of presence.
I can't help but be excited for Martin Skoula, who is without a doubt, the number 1 whipping boy for Wild Nation. People gasp, moan, bitch, complain, yell, cry, scream, and go nuts when he is even on the ice, much less handling the puck. Yes, he can have some rather spectacular gaffes (that's our Skoula!), but ever since he was scratched for two games earlier in the year, he has been a rock. He is really playing well; granted he was never overtly physical, but he is very good as using his size and mobility to gain position or to negate a rush, and he does throw the occasional baby hipcheck out there from time to time. He was very good in Tampa, and last night I couldn't help but watch him whenever he was on the ice; he was really good, especially moving the puck and getting 5 shots on goal.
You could see how genuine that emotion was when he scored, and you could see that everyone of his teammates was incredibly happy for him. I'll touch on this later down the road, but the play of Skoula and Kim Johnsson as a pairing could be a big reason the Wild could succeed in the playoffs (assuming we make them, considering how fortunes can change overnight in the Western Conference and the Northwest Division.)
So good for him, alot of people are probably backpeddling on their Skoula Stance.
Now, watching this game last night (from the comfort of the club level, an experience I recommend to everyone), just watching the play of Minnesota has me concerned; not so much that they played bad (LA had a fire under their asses), but their style of play. I just don't know how far a finesse based skating team can go, especially in the West. I get that Niklas Backstrom is responding kindly to the increased playing time (it shows, especially last night), and our defense is playing very well (i.e. Johnsson and Skoula), but they just don't have the consistent physical presence out there to create space for their skill; even with guys like Simon, Fedoruk, Veilleux, and Voros (who was scratched), there was very little hitting going on last night. I know that guys can step up (Burns and Schultz can be very physical), but I think we may just see a rerun of last year's debacle because we lack that physical edge, despite some of the pieces in place, that defines the playoffs. To me, it makes it that much more important for future grinders like Cal Clutterbuck and Colton Gillies to make a push for a roster spot next year, because I feel that those two can bring the very thing that I think this year's roster lacks, an "in your face" sort of presence.
Saturday, March 1, 2008
#65...Sink, Florida, Sink
Maybe Eric Belanger was right; The Wild roster would settle down after the trade deadline had passed, and get back to business. Wednesday's game against Tampa, and last night's game against Florida were examples that perhaps that is the case. The team looks like it has gone nearly 180 degrees from their inept display in Washington; The Wild has dominated play for full periods in the past two games.
Has the corner been turned?
Well, a glass half empty guy would merely state that Minnesota should beat, and should dominate teams like Florida and Tampa Bay Tampa Bay; they are just mediocre teams in a mediocre division. Again, one could argue that the team's merit lies in the matchups that are for something of importance- a playoff spot, seed, or even the division lead. Yes, it looks like they may have some swagger back, but I do want to see this swagger against the Calgarys, the Vancouvers, the Colorados, etc. Otherwise, this is just the same team as before, the squad that will get business done against the lesser teams, yet lay an egg when the competition is equal or even greater.
But; now that the team is finalized, and now they know that who is in the room is who they will go into war with, they can look forward and not worry about the speculation and trade deadline distractions that happen around this time of the season. We can write off the Washington game as a product of that, and having to play a Capitals squad that was giddy off the moves their GM George McPhee made. So, getting to play 2 games against non-playoff teams, in nice weather, away from the bee's nest that is Wild Nation (still sore about the Chris Simon bit) is a nice little way to segue into a position where they can begin to gain some steam.
But plain and simple, The Wild dominated last night; they moved the puck well, they got scoring chances, they played well all around (Lemaire was raving about the centers), and Nik Backstrom was very solid. It does alarm me that Florida was able to come out and assert themselves in the 3rd period the way they did, leaving Minnesota reeling on their heels after Nathan Horton's goal. Not how you want to finish a game; now especially that the games coming down the stretch are of absolute importance.
Has the corner been turned?
Well, a glass half empty guy would merely state that Minnesota should beat, and should dominate teams like Florida and Tampa Bay Tampa Bay; they are just mediocre teams in a mediocre division. Again, one could argue that the team's merit lies in the matchups that are for something of importance- a playoff spot, seed, or even the division lead. Yes, it looks like they may have some swagger back, but I do want to see this swagger against the Calgarys, the Vancouvers, the Colorados, etc. Otherwise, this is just the same team as before, the squad that will get business done against the lesser teams, yet lay an egg when the competition is equal or even greater.
But; now that the team is finalized, and now they know that who is in the room is who they will go into war with, they can look forward and not worry about the speculation and trade deadline distractions that happen around this time of the season. We can write off the Washington game as a product of that, and having to play a Capitals squad that was giddy off the moves their GM George McPhee made. So, getting to play 2 games against non-playoff teams, in nice weather, away from the bee's nest that is Wild Nation (still sore about the Chris Simon bit) is a nice little way to segue into a position where they can begin to gain some steam.
But plain and simple, The Wild dominated last night; they moved the puck well, they got scoring chances, they played well all around (Lemaire was raving about the centers), and Nik Backstrom was very solid. It does alarm me that Florida was able to come out and assert themselves in the 3rd period the way they did, leaving Minnesota reeling on their heels after Nathan Horton's goal. Not how you want to finish a game; now especially that the games coming down the stretch are of absolute importance.
Re: Chris Hickey
I recently caught up with Max Giese, who scouts for McKeen's Hockey, and was nice enough to send me this report on a recent viewing of Wild Prospect Chris Hickey.
"Strengths: Size-strength .. he can bang with big boys
in the league and hold his own. Stride .. good stride
for big man with an okay top gear, although agility
needs work .. defensive game .. very astute and hard
working defender. Shot .. good release and heavy
velocity.
Weaknesses: Vision .. doesn't see the ice well
especially with the puck. Hands .. not a naturally
skilled player and he fumbles the puck a lot while
skating which hinders his speed from becoming an
offensive weapon.
Bottom line: Never going to be a top six forward even
in college, but there is hope for him because of his
work ethic and size .. his defensive game is his best
attribute so he could potentially be a checker down
the road. Expect him to fill that role as a Badger
for years to come."
While it may seem a big dismaying that as of right now it looks like Hickey's ceiling is rather limited, we can make two points of contention:
1. There is always room on a roster (at any level) for a hard working, defensively responsible forward.
2. And because he looks rather normal offensively, things can change and this player is still developing; and going to a Developmental Haven like the University of Wisconsin will help with that.
Thanks again to Max and McKeen's Hockey.
Also, on a slightly related note, I received an email from Rick Medvec, the father of Wild Prospect Kyle Medvec. He thanked me for the write-up on his son, and was nice enough to offer me some game-action photos from Kyle's games for Vermont. Giese also mentioned that Medvec has really started to play well for the Catamounts, which bodes well for Wild Nation.
"Strengths: Size-strength .. he can bang with big boys
in the league and hold his own. Stride .. good stride
for big man with an okay top gear, although agility
needs work .. defensive game .. very astute and hard
working defender. Shot .. good release and heavy
velocity.
Weaknesses: Vision .. doesn't see the ice well
especially with the puck. Hands .. not a naturally
skilled player and he fumbles the puck a lot while
skating which hinders his speed from becoming an
offensive weapon.
Bottom line: Never going to be a top six forward even
in college, but there is hope for him because of his
work ethic and size .. his defensive game is his best
attribute so he could potentially be a checker down
the road. Expect him to fill that role as a Badger
for years to come."
While it may seem a big dismaying that as of right now it looks like Hickey's ceiling is rather limited, we can make two points of contention:
1. There is always room on a roster (at any level) for a hard working, defensively responsible forward.
2. And because he looks rather normal offensively, things can change and this player is still developing; and going to a Developmental Haven like the University of Wisconsin will help with that.
Thanks again to Max and McKeen's Hockey.
Also, on a slightly related note, I received an email from Rick Medvec, the father of Wild Prospect Kyle Medvec. He thanked me for the write-up on his son, and was nice enough to offer me some game-action photos from Kyle's games for Vermont. Giese also mentioned that Medvec has really started to play well for the Catamounts, which bodes well for Wild Nation.
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