1) Clutch performance
Look no further than Game 7 of the 2009 semi-finals. When it mattered. When all the hyperbole comes down to 60 minutes of who can lead their team to the next round. Three minutes into Game 7 and the chance to change the entire game playing on home ice.
[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f_airMgUX4c]
Fleury: it’s like taking candy from a baby.
Follow that up with Crosby’s breakaway goal. OMG. It was that old freaky use-my-right-skate-as-a-brake-change-up shot. Just like in practice.
2) Clutch performance #2
Game 2. In what is probably one of the best playoff games of this season, both Ovie and Sid score hat tricks. What is amazing is watching a dejected Crosby at the end of one shift …and then watching him a few shifts later doing some Circus-Act hand-eye thing where he bats his 3rd goal off of Varlamov’s noggin and into the back of the net.
3) Not showing up your opponent
Call it what you want. Showboating. Hotdogging. Dissing. I’m tired of Ovechkin’s antics. After his 50th goal earlier this year and the “my stick is too hot to hold” routine (…wait a minute, that didn’t sound too good), you gotta wonder why no one came up and introduced Ovie’s stick to his other hole. Krajicek, don’t just stand there!
Washington Capitals’ Alex Ovechkin (8) celebrates with his stick after scoring his 50th goal of the season during the first period of a hockey game Thursday, March 19, 2009, in Tampa, Fla. Teammate Mike Green and Tampa Bay Lightning’s Lukas Krajicek look on
I mean c’mon! Can you imagine if Tiger Woods did that? Or Michael Jordan? Wayne Gretzky or Mario? John McEnroe?
Posts Tagged ‘Uncategorized’
2009: Crosby is better than Ovechkin
May 14th, 20092009 Stanley Cup Predictions: Game 7 Conference Semi Finals
May 13th, 2009Well, well, well.
Another round of the playoffs, and I was wrong for every prediction….so far.
But that’s the beautiful thing about this blog. I get to go back, look at what I said, and chalk up my inaccuracy to some unexplained events, like solar storms or something. I have to say though, this has been quite a second round of the playoffs. Who would have thought that two teams would come back after being down 3-1 to force a Game 7. I know the hockey world, and the NHL is loving the Pittsburgh Penguins and Washington Capitals matchup, but the Boston Bruins vs. Carolina Hurricanes series has been no slouch either.
So let’s recap my original thoughts: Pittsburgh in 6 (wrong), Bruins in 6 (wrong), Anaheim in 6 (wrong). Notice a trend. The plus side is that each one of these series could still end in my favour, but it’s time to look at the series knowing everything that we know now.
So here we go. Time for Game 7 predictions.
Boston Bruins vs. Carolina Hurricanes
I had a funny feeling that Boston was going to win this one last night. They weren’t going to let Carolina “bruin” their season just like that. After watching their complete performance in Game 5, I think we’re seeing the Boston Bruins of the first round. But that knee on knee on Savard last night could be costly for that team. Even if he does play, he will be playing hurt, and that guy plays such an important role dishing the pucks to their scorers (although Lucic set him up for a beauty last night). Even so, they’re going back to the Garden, and if they’re losing at all going into the third, I predict that Cam Neely puts on skates himself and finishes this for them. I’m saying Boston is taking it, 5-2.
Washington Capitals vs. Pittsburgh Penguins
This is the one the hockey world has been waiting for since the end of the lockout, and it promises not to disappoint. Word is that Sergei Gonchar may be able to return to the lineup. That is huge, not only for the Penguins powerplay, but for the psyche of that locker room. But the game is back in Washington, and they are going to be loud tonight. If Washington scores first, that crowd and that team are going to be so excited. So expect Pittsburgh to storm back and win the game. If the Penguins score first, I think Washington will get their act together and take this one. It all depends on that first goal though. But if I had to call the series not knowing who is going to score first, I’d say Washington now. They’re undefeated when facing elimination.
Detroit Red Wings vs. Anaheim Ducks
I knew this series was going to go long, and I’m incredibly pleased that it’s going back to Joe Louis Arena for Game 7. I think Anaheim will take this game though. They’re physicality really showed last night, and they demonstrated that they won’t take it lying down. Here’s how it will play out though: a bad penalty will be taken when an overzealous fan hurls and octupus on the ice at Hiller. Getzlaf sets up Corey Perry for the game winner, and Anaheim faces Chicago next round. I’m calling Anaheim 3-2.
Follow us on Twitter or be a Facebook fan with exclusive content.
What would you do (Part 4) with the Phoenix Coyotes?
May 12th, 2009This time the “What Would You Do” series is extending into the realm of NHL Franchise relocation.
Today’s challengers: Hamilton vs. Winnipeg
Population of Hamilton: 692,911 (Census Metropolitan Area)
Population of Winnipeg: 694,668 (Census Metropolitan Area)
This one actually surprised me, but you have to remember that Hamilton has more metropolitan areas surrounding it than Winnipeg does. Numbers-wise, Winnipeg wins, but with intangibles (aka the GTA and Detroit), Hamilton gets it. +1 for Hamilton.
Hamilton Professional Sports Teams: Hamilton Tiger-Cats (CFL) and Hamilton Bulldogs (AHL)
Winnipeg Professional Sports Teams: Winnipeg Blue Bombers (CFL), Manitoba Moose (AHL) and Winnipeg Goldeyes (Northern League Baseball)
No one saw that one coming did they? Winnipeg is actually supporting three professional sports franchises. This could work for or against them. On the one side, they’ve got a fan base that is showing up to sports games. On the other hand, is there enough corporate support spread between three franchises that could possibly support a fourth? I’m going to say Winnipeg takes this one though, because of nostaglia and an apparent willingness to support local sports teams.
Hamilton Hockey Arena: Copps Coliseum- built in 1985- seats up to 17,383 for ice hockey
Winnipeg Hockey Arena: MTS Centre- built in 2004- seats up to 15,015 for ice hockey
Copps Coliseum was built specifically in the hopes that it could bring an NHL franchise to Hamilton. While it may be older, it already seats more than the MTS Centre. Both arenas have hosted IIHF events (World Juniors and World Women’s). The belief is that a smaller arena could create a positive supply and demand situation in Winnipeg, but I think Copps has more potential because it is already a bigger venue. Give this to Hamilton.
Hamilton AHL Franchise- Hamilton Bulldogs/Montreal Canadiens
Winnipeg AHL Franchise- Manitoba Moose/Vancouver Canucks
This one goes to Winnipeg strictly by association between Hamilton and the Montreal Canadiens. Oh those poor Canadiens.
Hamilton’s Nostalgia Appeal- none.
Winnipeg’s Nostalgia Appeal- everything.
Who wouldn’t want to see the return of the Jets, White-outs, and retribution for a lost Canadian franchise.
BOTTOM LINE:
While Hamilton is more likely to be able to support an NHL franchise, the Phoenix Coyotes are the wrong team to move there. Winnipeg has shown that it can support sports teams, and they deserve a chance–under the new CBA and current economic climate–to show that the Phoenix/Winnipeg franchise can be a success there again. Hamilton should still get a team from the Sun Belt, but not this one.
Stay classy Hamilton. You’ll get there soon.
Follow us on Twitter or be a Facebook fan with exclusive content.
2010 US Olympic team predictions
May 7th, 2009Update: Here’s the 34 man American Olympic Camp Roster:
Goaltenders: Ryan Miller, Jonathan Quick, Tim Thomas
Defensemen: Tom Gilbert, Tim Gleason, Ron Hainsey, Erik Johnson, Jack Johnson, Mike Komisarek, Paul Martin, Brooks Orpik, Brian Rafalski, Rob Scuderi, Ryan Suter, Ryan Whitney
Forwards: David Backes, David Booth, Dustin Brown, Dustin Byfuglien, Ryan Callahan, Chris Drury, Scott Gomez, Patrick Kane, Ryan Kesler, Phil Kessel, Jamie Langenbrunner, Ryan Malone, Mike Modano, Kyle Okposo, T.J. Oshie, Zach Parise, Joe Pavelski, Bobby Ryan, Paul Stastny
Hello classy internet,
Hello classy internet,
Over the past few weeks, several Canadian hockey players have drawn attention for their strong play and have garnered Steve Yzerman’s attention for this next year’s Olympic team.
But the real story here is the 2010 American Olympic squad. They finished 8th in the Turino Olympics with a team that was in full re-build mode. They will be ready next year and are stock-piled with young and talented players. This team will be fast and while they may take some by surprise, I believe they will challenge for a medal.
Here are my picks for the 2010 American Olympic team (as of today):
Forwards (13)
Patrick Kane (CHI) Zac Parise (NJ) Peter Mueller (PHO)
Brian Gionta (NJ) Chris Drury (NYR) Keith Tkachuk (STL)
Brian Rolston (NJ) Scott Gomez (NYR) Phil Kessel (BOS)
Dustin Brown (LAK) Jamie Langenbrunner (NJ) T.J Oshie (STL)
Ryan Kesler (VAN)
Defense (8)
Ron Hainsey (ATL) Ryan Whitney (ANA)
Ryan Suter (NSH) John-Michael Liles (COL)
Brian Rafalski (DET) Keith Ballard (FLA)
Paul Martin (NJ) Jack Johnson (LAK)
Goaltending (3)
Tim Thomas (BOS)
Ryan Miller (BUF)
Rick DiPietro (NYI)
Reserves (3)
Scott Clemmensen (NJ)
Joe Corvo (CAR)
David Backes (STL)
Players on the Bubble: Jason Blake, Mike Modano, Bill Guerin, Brandon Dubinsky, Jason Pominville, Jordan Leopold and Tim Gleason.
As you can see, I think the Americans are going to go with their youth for this tournament. That’s why guys like Bill Guerin, Mike Modano, Doug Weight and Mathieu Schneider have been left off this team.
In my next blog, I’ll discuss my picks for the Canadian Olympic Squad.
Your Reporter in the Field,
Fantana
Follow us on Twitter or be a Facebook fan with exclusive content.
** Update: June 30th **
Here’s the 34 man American Olympic Camp Roster:
Goaltenders: Ryan Miller, Jonathan Quick, Tim Thomas
Defensemen: Tom Gilbert, Tim Gleason, Ron Hainsey, Erik Johnson, Jack Johnson, Mike Komisarek, Paul Martin, Brooks Orpik, Brian Rafalski, Rob Scuderi, Ryan Suter, Ryan Whitney
Forwards: David Backes, David Booth, Dustin Brown, Dustin Byfuglien, Ryan Callahan, Chris Drury, Scott Gomez, Patrick Kane, Ryan Kesler, Phil Kessel, Jamie Langenbrunner, Ryan Malone, Mike Modano, Kyle Okposo, T.J. Oshie, Zach Parise, Joe Pavelski, Bobby Ryan, Paul Stastny
What's wrong with the Whooping Cranes?
May 4th, 2009This is the time of year that separates a great player and a good one. A time of year that earns you the right to sit out the first 4 months of next season. A time of year that gives you pushback rights in your next contract negotiation. And most importantly, it’s the time of year to truly earn the ‘ice-cred’ and paycheck you earn.
The result of rule changes following 2004′s NHL lockout have created a fairly unbalanced supply and demand for defensemen who can skate well and pass pucks better. In short, puck moving defensemen are a rare breed, and more rare than a Whooping Crane. I certainly don’t underestimate the value of a puck moving defenseman (PMD), but I think certain PMD’s need to start showing the value NHL GM’s see in them. Both Brian Campbell and Mike Green fit the mold of “Whooping Crane”, or PMD, yet so far in this year’s playoffs aren’t rising above the rest like they did and have done in the regular season.
(Is it me, or does PMD sound like some sort of professional certification? Anyways…)
Brian Campbell
The big fish of last summer’s unrestricted free agents, Brian Campbell signed a whooping 8 year $56.8 Million with the Chicago Blackhawks and figured to be a key piece in the Hawks resurgence this season, along with Kane, Sharp, Toews and others. As it turns out, Campbell now finds himself on the 3rd defense pairing, averaging around 17 minutes of ice time per game. That’s like… *does the math*… $500,000 for each minute (or shift) of ice time. I don’t like attaching contracts to expectations, but its hard to seperate the two. Much like its hard to seperate Campbell from any other defenseman on the ice or in the league. He’s not stepping up and has looked terrible this season, especially in the playoffs. He often looks lost on the ice and his terrible pinch in game 1 against the Vancouver Canucks in the dying minutes of the game was terrible. He is a veteran and a decision like that is reminiscent of Wade Redden. Ouch. Sorry Rangers fans, but I dare you to disagree with me.
Mike Green
I know he was sick during the better part of the first round Washington Capitals-New York Rangers match up, but has since declared he feels better and ready to rock. Problem is, I’m still waiting for the hammer to drop. Or the Mohawk … or any other cleaver analogy you have. The fact is Green hasn’t been the same dynamic force in any game of the 2009 playoffs. I don’t blame tighter checking playoff games either – he’s showed it at times, but in powerplay sequences, he’s got to be more of a presence. Alex Ovechkin’s 5-on-3 goal from Saturday afternoon was a result of Green causing a huge distraction in the high slot. Green hasn’t been as mobile in the high slots or down low in corners, creating the odd-man threats he normally does. He’s not getting involved in the offensive play as much and frankly, his breakout passes are regular. The Caps need him to get going if they want to advance past the Pittsburgh Penguins.
Stay classy, Whooping Cranes (errr, PMDs).
Follow us on Twitter or be a Facebook fan with exclusive content.
The 1st round post mortem
April 30th, 2009Now that the 1st round of the Stanley Cup Playoffs is complete, 8 teams moved on to the Conference Semi-Finals while 8 teams cleaned out their locker rooms and began shaving their playoff beards. For the losing teams, the questions over what went wrong, who under-achieved and who will be re-signed, traded or let go will start.
Western Conference
Where did Joe Thornton go?
San Jose Sharks – After letting Ron Wilson go last summer and seeing another early playoff exit this year, it’s clear that coaching isn’t the problem in San Jose. Todd McLellen will be back next year and that’s probably the only safe bet with this team. San Jose’s core group of players didn’t show up against the Anaheim Ducks and that’s why they lost. Despite the no-trade clause, I think Patrick Marleau may be moved this summer. With one year and $6.3 Million on his contract, he’s pricey but can be afforded and I could see a team like the Los Angeles Kings being interested. I also wonder about Joe Thornton… it really makes you wonder if Boston were wrong to have traded him several years ago. Maybe they were right all along… weird! Evgeni Nabokov didn’t elevate his game in the playoffs either but I suspect the Sharks will retain him because he’d be too hard to replace. Milan Michalek is another guy that was non-existent against the Ducks and could be on the trading block. I expect he will be back next year but with $20 Million owing over the next 5 years, he’ll be hard to move. Finally, I think San Jose will re-sign Travis Moen and let Rob Blake go.
Columbus Blue Jackets – Columbus have a bright future and GM Scott Howson has done a great job in his two years with the Blue Jackets. The main challenge this summer will insulating Rick Nash and finding a way to re-sign him to a long-term contract, as his current deal expires at the end of next season (Shut up Leafs fans). Columbus could use another top 4 defenseman as I’m not sure if Christian Backman will be re-signed – he could be had but for less than the $3.4 Million he earned this season. With Voracek, Brassard, Filatov, Umberger, Vermette and Nash in their top 6, this team will be fast and dynamic next year. I’m excited to see these guys in October.
Calgary Flames – There’s no question that Calgary’s lineup was decimated with injuries but Flames fans won’t tolerate another early exit and neither will their ownership. Expect a few big changes this summer. I think Calgary would like to re-sign Mike Cammalleri, but their problem is that they’ve already got $47 Million committed to next season. Basically, to keep Cammalleri, they’ll have to pass on re-signing Rhett Warrener and Jordan Leopold, as Cammalleri will likely command $6 Million per season. Or they’ll have to trade Olli Jokinen to free up some cap space but I don’t see that happening. I doubt the Flames will re-sign Todd Bertuzzi or Adrian Aucoin but I do however believe David Moss and Jamie Lundmark will be retained.
St. Louis Blues – St. Louis ripped it up in the 2nd half of the year and surprised many with a 6th place finish in the ultra-tough Western Conference. Remember that Paul Kariya, Eric Brewer and Erik Johnson will all be healthy next season and that’s a big bonus for a young Blues team. Keith Tkachuk is UFA but I think he’ll re-sign with St. Louis for around $2 Million next year. Dan Hinote and Jay McClement should also be straight-forward re-signings. The only notable change for St. Louis is that I don’t see Manny Legace coming back next year. Look for the Blues to promote from within, with guys like Alex Pietrangelo, Patrik Berglund, Ben Bishop/Marek Shwartz and Johnson to take on bigger roles next season.
Eastern Conference
Philadelphia Flyers – Paul Holmgren was lauded as a genius for turning around the Philadelphia Flyers franchise in 2007. Well, turns out he didn’t plan that far ahead after all. The Flyers have $53 Million on their payroll for next year, so they won’t be participating in the UFA sweepstakes this summer. So no, they cannot afford Jay Bouwmeester, nor will they won’t be able to retain impending UFA’s Mike Knuble and Andrew Alberts. James van Riemsdyk will be a top 6 forward, so that makes Joffrey Lupul expendable. Good luck moving that contract though. I think the Flyers will try to move Daniel Briere (hello, Montreal), Lupul and possibly Simon Gagne this summer to clear cap space because, among other things, they have no goaltenders signed for next season. I think Philly will re-sign Biron to a similar contract as this year and will let Antero Niittymaki walk. Any teams trading with the Flyers can expect some really good deals!
New York Rangers – John Tortorella will be back as coach next year, so the circus with him and Sean Avery will continue. Oh boy! With $42 Million committed to next season already, some tough decisions will need to be made this summer in New York. I don’t see Zherdev or Antropov coming back, especially with Matt Gilroy joining the fold on a one-way contract next season. Paul Mara and Derek Morris are also doubtful to return. I think it’s clear the Rangers need to get some of their “character” players such as Brandon Dubinsky, Blair Betts and Ryan Callahan re-signed, as they were the most consistent players all year for the Blue-shirts. They will command significant raises that will bite into New York’s available cap space. The rest of the spare cash will go towards UFA defenseman that are better than Wade Redden.
Montreal Canadians – It’s been well documented that Montreal have a total of 13 UFA’s and 6 RFA’s this summer. Wow. Marc Denis, Robert Lang and Alexei Kovalev are very doubtful to return and depending on salary demands, Francis Bouillon, Alex Tanguay and Saku Koivu may not return either. For Koivu’s sake, I hope he finds a team/city that actually deserves him – I’ve heard rumours of Koivu going to Minnesota to play with his brother, but I’m not sold on that. There are also question marks surrounding the Kostitsyn brothers, though I suspect they will return to the Habs next year. The only players I can see the Canadians bringing back for sure next year are Mike Komisarek, Patrice Brisebois (at a reduced salary), Guillaume Latendresse and Chris Higgins. Montreal do have some promising youth ready to step into a regular role with the team, including Max Pacioretty, Matt D’Agostini, and Ryan O’Byrne, among others, and that’s about the only good news for Habs fans. It’s going to be a long season next year and making the playoffs is all but guaranteed.
New Jersey Devils – New Jersey have 9 UFA’s this summer, including John Madden, Brian Gionta, Bobby Holik, Brendan Shanahan, Scott Clemmenson, Niclas Havelid and Johnny Oduya. Needless to say, it could be a very different looking Devils team that hits the ice in October. I believe the Devils will re-sign Oduya and Madden for sure, while Holik and Shanahan could be kept, assuming they aren’t seeking too much coin. Brian Gionta will be tough to retain, given he’s 29 years old and earned $4 Million this past season. I also think Clemmenson and Havelid are goners. Travis Zajac and Andy Greene are RFA’s too, and they’ll both command big raises, expecially Zajac.
Your reporter in the field,
Fantana
Follow us on Twitter or be a Facebook fan with exclusive content.
What would you do?
April 29th, 2009There’s a very famous game called Who Would You Do? The premise is pretty simple. Given a choice, decide who you would do.
Your choices: Jason Spezza or Joe Thornton.
Now before you break into song about who you would pick, let’s have a look at a few figures. Let’s called it the STD discussion before you jump into bed. Sometimes the grass isn’t actually that green on the other side.
Jason Spezza: 25 years old
Joe Thornton: 29 years old
Let’s give this one to Spezza, given that those four years will mean a big difference in only a few more seasons.
Jason Spezza: Drafted 2nd overall
Joe Thornton: Drafted 1st overall
Let’s call this a wash. The difference in draft selection is miniscule.
Thornton’s first full season in the NHL: 16 goals, 25 assists, 41 points.
Spezza’s first full season in the NHL: 22 goals, 33 assists, 55 points.
Considering Spezza’s first season was played under a stifling defensive system of Jacques Martin, I have to give Spezza a bit more credit here.
Spezza’s current contract: 7 year, $49 million (averages $7 million a season, going into the second year of the deal)
Thornton’s current contract: 3 year, $21.6 million (averages $7.2 million a season, going into the second year of the deal)
Money-wise, it’s a wash. This one probably goes to Thornton given that it is a shorter contract. But put it this way. Thornton will be 33 years old when he finishes his contract. Spezza will be 32 years old when he finishes his.
Look at it another way. Thornton’s career totals increased each year when he was 25, 26, and 27 years old. His totals are now declining. Spezza hasn’t even played at that age category yet. Look for better numbers over the next 3 seasons.
Thornton’s career playoff totals: 70 GP, 11 G, 37 A, 48 Pts- Average points per game: 0.6
Spezza’s career playoff totals: 40 GP, 13 G, 26 A, 39 Pts- Average points per game: 0.9
Have to give this to Spezza again. Numbers are too good. That’s so close to a point a game, it’s not even funny.
Number of Stanley Cup Finals GP
Spezza- 5
Thornton- 0
‘Nough said.
Follow us on Twitter or be a Facebook fan with exclusive content.
2009 Stanley Cup predictions: Conference semi finals
April 28th, 2009Alright, back again for our first annual 2nd round predictions of the 2009 Stanley Cup Conference semi finals. Round 1 was a little weird – I mean, other than NHLdigest.com, who else foresaw the Anaheim Ducks taking out the San Jose Sharks? I vow to never pick Joe Thornton in a playoff hockey pool again.
Everyone is and will continue talking about the Sharks being perrenial playoff chokers. As a long time Ottawa Senators fan, I know what Sharks fans are going through. But you can’t even call the Senators chokers this year – you have to make the playoffs first! Seriously, where’s Calgary in all this choker talk? Did you know the Calgary Flames have gotten to the Stanley Cup finals three times? You probably did, my wicked readers. What you may not know is that it’s the only three times Calgary have advanced beyond the first round.
Now who’s the chokers? And Joe Thornton has never worn a Flames jersey.
And speaking of chokers; let’s quickly look at the New York Rangers and New Jersey Devils. Who had the biggest choke: Is it the Rangers who had the 3-1 series lead, losing three straight games? Or is it the New Jersey Devils who had a 3-2 lead in game 7 with 80 seconds remaining in the game losing in regulation time? Two equally embarrassing collapses, this is tough. Your thoughts are required…
Anyways, onto our 2nd round playoff picks… let’s hope they go better than last round.
Western Conference
Detroit Red Wings vs Anaheim Ducks
Burgundy: Detroit in 7 games; “Ducks fly together”… unless there are Red Wings around. Is it me, or does Ryan Getzlaf remind you of Charlie Conway from the Mighty Ducks? You know you agree. The Sharks never had anyone infront of Hiller and this series will feature 70% more screened shots from Johan Franzen, Thomas Holstrom and other Wings.
Fantana: Detroit in 6 games; Anaheim surprised us all in the first round against San Jose but I’m positive Detroit will crush the Ducks this round. Even though Giguere didn’t play against San Jose, he has been Jonas Hiller’s mentor for the past few seasons. And anyone who’s been mentored by a goalie who plays goal with a jazz flute is in trouble.
Mantooth: Detroit in 5 games; One team in this series is going to get their feathers clipped and I don’t see it being Detroit. The Red Wings walked all over the Blue Jackets, with the only close game being the last. With a nice long break they will come out guns a-blazin’. Franzen and crew are going to make this one look effortless.
Tambland: Anaheim in 6 games; Not really sure what to say anymore. My logic last round seems to have failed. I’m gonna have to flip a coin on this one. If it’s heads, the Ducks (because Ducks have heads). If it’s tails, the Ducks (because Ducks have tails). Oh. Well there you go.
Baxter: Anaheim in 6 games; Since I totally blew my San-Jose-Will-Smoke-The-Ducks prediction from the first round, I’m going have to humbly eat crow, er, duck…um, never mind. Who knew that Anaheim would outscore SJ 9-2 in third periods? Specialty teams? Forget it. Ducks outscored SJ 12-5 at even strength. Listen, this is all about defence. I’m scared. Another Duck championship is starting to look like a real possibility if they get past the Wings. Do you think I’m drinking too much purple Kool-Aid? Think way back… Anaheim beat Detroit in six games two years ago in the West finals on its way to the franchise’s lone Stanley Cup title. Against Ottawa (ahem).
Vancouver Canucks vs Chicago Blackhawks
Burgundy: Vancouver in 7 games; Although I hate the thought of betting against Patrick Kane, Duncan Keith and Brent Seabrook (the list goes on), I hate the idea of betting against Luongo even more. The difference will be the extra week worth of rest the Canucks got while the Hawks were battling the Flames. So yes, I’m voting for Vancouver, despite the fact Chicago has more Canadian-born players on their team (the Hawks have 15 and the Canucks have 14).
Fantana: Vancouver in 6 games; Luongo is like a machine in a constant cat-like readiness and he will stonewall the young Hawks all series long. Chicago’s only hope is to set Marty Havlat’s kicking legs into motion in Vancouver’s crease. Failing that, they could try to clone Dustin Byfuglien and put two Byfuglien’s in front of Luongo. That might work.
Mantooth: Chicago in 6 games; If I were to pit a Killer Whale against a Hawk in a fight, I would put my money on the Whale hands down! The only problem is, this is one awesome Hawk. This series will be all about offense, I think that Toews, Havlet and Versteeg have the edge over the Sundin and Sedin’s.
Tambland: Vancouver in 5 games; Well well well. So Chicago thinks they can ruin Canada’s Cup dream twice in one playoff. I don’t think so. Here’s the way I see it. Vancouver is probably the next Canadian team due to make the Finals, seeing as Edmonton, Calgary and Ottawa have all done it recently.
Baxter: Vancouver in 6 games; Shut down the speed. Slow down the breakout. Make Luongo drink water. Canucks are well rested. Then again, did Chicago ever break a sweat? Khabibulin gave up a combined 9 goals in Games 3 and 4 (both losses to Calgary). And then for some bizarre reason, he stood on his head in Game 6. Poor Iggy is still licking his wounds. If the Canucks keep rolling, they will have to come up with new product lines at IKEA. The Sundin doorMat. The Sedin twin bunk bed. The Matias Ohlund. Whatever that means.
Eastern Conference
Boston Bruins vs Carolina Hurricanes
Burgundy: Boston in 6 games; I don’t think Carolina has the same forward depth Boston has. As a Sens fan, I’m looking forward to seeing Zdeno Chara put Joe Corvo through the boards. And Erik Cole too. I just kinda don’t like him. It’s an irrational hate thing because of his terrible stint in Edmonton.
Fantana: Boston in 6 games; It’s the year of the Bruin and Bruins are so tough, they can stand through Hurricanes. Carolina will throw everything they’ve got at Boston but it won’t be enough. The Hurricanes playoff drive is going to Staal in the second round. See what I did there… pretty impressive, I know.
Mantooth: Boston in 6 games; The Canes finally get 2 straight wins when they needed it the most and Eric Staal is the man of the hour. Now the Bruins on the other hand, were pretty much given their series on a golden platter and are all fresh going into this series. This will be a straight up battle. and a tough one to call, but I have to side with my gut feeling.
Tambland: Boston in 6 games; Again, this one goes to the B’s. Only because it is a good opportunity to ‘bruin’ Paul Maurice’s comeback in coaching. Sorry. I really am quite happy that I discovered “bruin” could replace “ruin” in most instances.
Baxter: Boston in 6 games; Tim Thomas (6 goals against MTL, with an uncomprehensible .946 save percentage) will be well rested after sitting since April 23rd when the B’s embarassed les Habs in four straight. While Cam Ward kept his team in it long enough to beat NJ in game 7 (in probably one of the most bizarre final one minute 30 seconds I have ever seen in a playoff game), his record versus the B’s this season has been humbling (0-4-0, with a 3.90 GAA). Chara only needs to flash one stat: his dimensions at 6’9″, 255 pounds. His dad was a Greco-Roman wrestler for Czechoslovakia at the 1976 Olympics. ’Nuff said. And what does a tailgate party look like in the Carolinas? Take a look.
Washington Capitals vs Pittsburgh Penguins
Burgundy: Pittsburgh in 6 games; Nothing witty here. Marc-Andre Fleury might be the hottest goalie in the Eastern Conference and doesn’t have a weak glove side (see Henrik Lundqvist). Pittsburgh’s forwards will score on those odd-man rushes the New York Rangers screwed up. I’m not convinced Washington can play as team for a whole game; whereas Pittsburgh can.
Fantana: Washington in 7 games; While most fans are expecting a Malkin versus Ovechkin showdown, or even a Crosby versus Ovechkin showdown, I think this will be Alexander Semin’s emergence as a playoff star. Semin scored 5 goals against the Rangers and he didn’t even have to drop his gloves. Marc Staal got lucky he didn’t get beaten like a drum again, but Crosby & co. should watch their backs.
Mantooth: Washington in 7 games; Alright let’s get this out of the way, we all know that Gary B has a raging hard-on about this series. Do you blame him? This is going to be the series of the entire playoffs. Ovechkin & Semin vs. Crosby & Malkin. Now I have 3 of those 4 in my pool, and all I want to see is high scoring by those individuals. And I need this series to drag out to 7 games to make it worth while. I see the Caps on a high making the comeback from being down 3-1 being the deciding factor.
Tambland: ** Editors note: this pick was made at 4pm on Tuesday April 28th** Pittsburgh in 6 games; That’s right. I’m calling it early. This could completely be screwed up by the end of the [Tuesday] night. But I’m going to have to go with the Penguins on this one. The Caps are going to be too tired, and Pittsburgh looked awesome last round. Plus, the Russian Ice Hockey Federation is still mad at me, so I’m still mad at them.
Baxter: Pittsburgh in 6 games; Bettman must be doing cartwheels. Ouch. Bad visual on that one. Sorry about that. How about this instead: the top three in scorers this year playing head-to-head in what will easily be the series to watch. Fun fact: which two teams were the worst in the Eastern Conference three years ago? Answer: Pittsburgh and Washington. This will be like watching a fat kid at an all-you-can-eat buffet: Ovechkin has 10 goals and 11 assists in 16 games against Pittsburgh. Malkin has six goals and 11 assists in 12 games and Crosby has eight goals and 18 assists in 15 games against Washington. Apologies to all the fat kids out there. And the parents who feed them.
Closing Thoughts:
Mantooth: Dorothy Mantooth is a Saint, A SAINT!!!
Fantana: Your reporter in the field, Brian Fantana.
Tambland: I love playoffs.
Baxter: “woof”.
Burgundy: Stay classy, conference semi finals.
Follow Stayclassy.net on Twitter or be our friend on Facebook.
Can the Canadiens find solace that they're not alone?
April 21st, 2009It’s not really fair to do comparisons before the NHL Playoffs are over, but I figured I’d take the leap on this one. The Montreal Canadiens shouldn’t worry about looking at themselves in the mirror. Instead, they should look at the Ottawa Senators of yester-year.
Regular Season
Ottawa Senators 2007-2008 Season
After 5 games- Record (5-0-0), 10 pts
Montreal Canadiens 2008-2009 Season
After 5 games- Record (4-0-1) 8 pts
Ottawa Senators 2007-2008 Season
After 39 games- Record (25-10-4), 54 pts
Montreal Canadiens 2008-2009 Season
After 39 games- Record (23-10-06) 52 pts
Ottawa Senators
After 66 games- Record (37-23-6), 80 pts
Montreal Canadiens
After 66 games- Record (35-24-7), 77 pts
Ottawa Senators
After 82 games- Record (43-31-8), 94 pts
Montreal Canadiens 2008-2009 Season
After 82 games- Record (41-30-11), 93 pts
Clearly there is some slight differences (Ottawa did explode out of the gate). But here’s where it get’s interesting.
Playoffs
Ottawa Senators 2007-2008
After 3 games- 0-3, 4 GF,13 GA
Montreal Canadiens 2008-2009
After 3 games- 0-3, 5 GF, 13 GA
Most Senators fans can tell you what happened next and it’s fairly easy to see the pattern here. So, that said, I’m calling Boston to win the last one at the Bell Centre.
The good news for Canadiens fans is that you don’t have to repeat the same mistakes as Ottawa did. And, as Burgundy pointed out in this forum, there’s lots of room for change with the number of unrestricted free agents the Canadiens’ roster has. So let’s call it a season, ride off in our shiny golf carts, and worry about next season.
Always remember though: Rome wasn’t built in a day, but I’m sure they celebrated their 100th Anniversary a bit classier.
Follow us on Twitter or be a Facebook fan with exclusive content.
Canada's third Olympic goalie
May 19th, 2009It’s pretty pathetic I’ve taken so long to get a new blog written. Almost as pathetic as the Pittsburgh Penguins home crowd in game one of the Eastern Conference finals… Were they ever dead.
Buy unlike that crowd, I have a good excuse: I’ve been travelling for the last week and a half. Getting scores and updates has presented it’s share if challenges, too. Yesterday, before zip-lining over a death defying river with rocks and bears below (the real Burgundy would be proud), I had to ask the tour guide who won game one of the Chicago-Detroit series. Or to catch yesterdays Pittsburgh-Carolina game, I had to endure a random old man babble about testing Brian Leech in a Whistler bar. Last week, I hacked a Red Lobster WiFi network while waiting for my bill to see if I’m winning my hockey pool. I hate to think what I may have to do for the next day or two…
But since I caught last night’s game, I convinced myself the winning goalie of the Carolina Hurricanes-Pittsburgh Penguins series might just fond himself one the men’s Canadian Olympic hockey team as th third goalie, behind Martin Brodeur and Roberto luongo, of course.
Although there may be some strong candidates for the third Canadian goaltender; guys like Carey Price (ark flailing may not be tolerated though), Marty Turco and J.S Giguere, I really believe it’s down to Marc-Andre Fleury and Cam Ward.
Should the Penguins win the series, this will ‘marc’ the second straight year Fleury has backstopped his team to the Stanley Cup finals. Not too shabby.
Should the Cardiac Canes pull the upset, Cam Ward will add a second Stanley Cup appearence to a sfyellat resume that already includes a previous Cup and Conn-Smythe win.
Cam Ward may have the edge right now, but don’t count out Fleury yet. He can go save for save with any goalie in the NHL and held the Penguins in last years Cup final. So long as he doesn’t try to play pucks, Fleury could very well be Canada’s third goalie at Vancouver’s 2010 Olympic games.
You heard it here first: I predict Marc-Andre Fleury will be Canada’s third goalie at next year’s Olympics. And when Canada plays Russia for the gold medal (you know it’ll come down to these two), Varlamov can get his rematch with Fleury.
Stay classy, Marc-Andre Fleury.Add SC.net on Facebook or follow us on Twitter.
4 comments »
Posted in NHL Commentary
Tags: Cam Ward Carolina Hurricanes Comedy Detroit Red Wings Entertainment Hockey Marc-Andre Fleury NHL Ottawa Pittsburgh Penguins Sports StayClassy.net Uncategorized Vancouver 2010 Olympics