Canadiens 2 - Bruins 1
8 Golden Points:
1. This is getting pathetic. You see the Bruins "scored" one goal in the box score. That's false. The Canadiens scored on themselves. Although I will always take it, you have to realize the Bruins CAN'T FRIGGIN' SCORE. Story of the franchise for the past few years. And don't give me this Ryder bullshit. Ryder sucked and would not be helping this team right now. We have players who can score. Get your head out of your tooshies and put the puck in the net!!!
2. Subban finally dropped the gloves with someone. Although I was hoping for Horton, I wasn't pissed that it was Marchy. Took three times before the refs allowed this fight to occur. Marchy is smaller than Subban and got man handled at one point, but he got in a few shots. Big props to the Gnat for doing something EVERYONE in Boston wants to do.
3. Thomas again and again makes unbelievable saves. You would think after a while I'd get use to it. I haven't yet and I don't think I will. His break away save on Cammalleri was just beautiful and had me jumping all over the apartment (sorry downstairs neighbor). The B's were winning 1-0 at that point, making that save even more important. Now let's try and get the players in front of him playing better.
4. Star Wars Part XIII: The Return of Darth Quaider. I will kindly disagree with most people's analysis of McQuaid's game. I thought on the whole he played well. He was manning the point really well, getting low shots through the net or just wide of the net. Yeah, he was a minus 2. He made one mistake that led to a goal. But I wouldn't say he struggled. I'd say the whole team struggled.
5. How many opportunities is Peverley going to miss?? This is his second or third break away this season where I literally had no faith the puck would even come close to going in. I mean if the Habs decided to pull the goalie, he definitely would've scored, but unfortunately there was a goalie there.
6. We brought Horton in here to score. He had a GOLDEN opportunity tie the game and whiffed. Horty, you're a goal scorer last I checked. If you are wide open 5 feet in front of the net, you're suppose to score. Just a friendly reminder.
7. Exit Wideman. Exit Ryder. Enter Pouliot. From the beginning he had an uphill battle winning me over. I know I made it rain gross man turds on him previously, but I would've reversed my tone had he showed me anything. And I mean anything. He has done NOTHING. I would rather Caron in the lineup doing nothing than Pouliot in the lineup doing nothing. At least Caron is gaining NHL experience. Pouliot sucks. Trade him.
8. The defending Stanley Cup champions sit in last place. That's right, the stinking Jets are ahead of us. The Islanders are ahead of us. This team needs to wake up really quick or it's going to be a long season. All those fans they gained last year will go bye bye. Not like I'll care about that part. It'll just be easier for me to get tickets. This will just be a very negative blog. Maybe change the name to Copper Spokes... ZING!
Next up: REMATCH against the Habs. Montreal's a tough place to play, let's hope they step it up. They lose tonight, there will be some changes.
A Boston Bruins blog by Dome
Saturday, October 29, 2011
Thursday, October 27, 2011
The Evil Empire
Tonight we get our first taste of one of the best rivalries in all of sports. No, I ain't talking about the Yanks. I'm talking about the Habs. B's vs Habs have made the Sox vs Yanks rivalry look like a tickle fight between two school girls the last few years. Yeah, I hate A-Rod, but even Yankee fans do. Public enemy number one? PK Subban (when are we going to see a Subban vs Horton fight already!?). I would LOVE to see Chara throw Gill around like he did when Gill brought shame to the B. But I think PJ Axelsson could take Gill in a fight. And what a loser Pouliot... oh wait. He's on our side now.
It doesn't get much better than a good hockey rivalry especially with two teams that have as much history together and seem to literally HATE each other. It probably makes it better because you can actually fight the other team (within the rules...sometimes) in hockey. And boy do these two teams do a lot of fightin'.
Not to mention the two teams have been pretty good the past few years. That's what made this Stanley Cup win even more sweet. It went through Montreal first. Yeah, winning it going through Florida then Atlanta would've been nice too. But we had an epic battle against Montreal then mopped the floor with the Flyers. The two teams I hate the most!!
It's not uncommon that I spend a few hours just watching some of the classic Bruins/Habs moments. If you know me, I tend to find the brawls the most appetizing and there has NOT been a shortage of those the past few years. I could watch last year's brawl on repeat for days on end.
The Bruins are struggling to play their game consistently on a night in and night out basis. Last year they thrived off playing emotional and that emotion has been lacking to put it nicely. Montreal is in a similar situation. They have stunk up the joint so far, going 2-5-2 to start the season. They just fired their assistant coach and are looking to get back on track. They did play Philadelphia last night, so hopefully we can catch them a little flat/tired. I don't count on that though. With the way these two teams play, it's going to be just like camping... intense!
With both teams struggling, I predict a very entertaining home at home mini series here. Both teams need to prove to the league they are better than their records and need to prove to their fans that they are ready to step it up.
Bruins.... Habs... ROUND 1!!
Remember to follow GoldenSpokes on twitter during the game. Expect a lot of Dude comments as the mullet makes its triumphant return tonight.
It doesn't get much better than a good hockey rivalry especially with two teams that have as much history together and seem to literally HATE each other. It probably makes it better because you can actually fight the other team (within the rules...sometimes) in hockey. And boy do these two teams do a lot of fightin'.
Not to mention the two teams have been pretty good the past few years. That's what made this Stanley Cup win even more sweet. It went through Montreal first. Yeah, winning it going through Florida then Atlanta would've been nice too. But we had an epic battle against Montreal then mopped the floor with the Flyers. The two teams I hate the most!!
It's not uncommon that I spend a few hours just watching some of the classic Bruins/Habs moments. If you know me, I tend to find the brawls the most appetizing and there has NOT been a shortage of those the past few years. I could watch last year's brawl on repeat for days on end.
The Bruins are struggling to play their game consistently on a night in and night out basis. Last year they thrived off playing emotional and that emotion has been lacking to put it nicely. Montreal is in a similar situation. They have stunk up the joint so far, going 2-5-2 to start the season. They just fired their assistant coach and are looking to get back on track. They did play Philadelphia last night, so hopefully we can catch them a little flat/tired. I don't count on that though. With the way these two teams play, it's going to be just like camping... intense!
With both teams struggling, I predict a very entertaining home at home mini series here. Both teams need to prove to the league they are better than their records and need to prove to their fans that they are ready to step it up.
Bruins.... Habs... ROUND 1!!
Remember to follow GoldenSpokes on twitter during the game. Expect a lot of Dude comments as the mullet makes its triumphant return tonight.
Friday, October 21, 2011
8 Golden Points: Game 7 vs Toronto
Bruins 6 - Maple Leafs 2
8 Golden Points:
1. As we saw in the later part of the 'Canes game (which I'd like to forget about), Julien went with a different combination of lines to start this game and boy does he look like a genius. This looked like a completely different team out there. 6 goals from 6 different players. The Maple Leafs came into this game red hot while the B's have been ice cold. You would not have known that after watching this game.
2. I think I'm going to change the name of this segment to 7 Golden Points + Seguin. Last night, instead of playing center on the top line, he slid over and played ring wing along with Kelly and Lucic. How'd he respond? A goal and 2 assists. In 7 games Seguin is 2-6-8 +5. As a team we've only scored 17 total goals and he's been apart of 8. One of his best plays came at the end of a shift, he hustle backed on a defense, dove and broke up an odd man rush. He's doing it all! And I repeat... "THANK YOU KESSEL!!"
3. In my last 8 Golden Points, I mention Lucic and Horton were just baiting everyone into thinking they sucked and that they were going to start playing well real soon. Well as always (or on rare occasion...whatever), I was right. The best game of the year from these two. When Looch plays that North-South hockey, he's nearly unstoppable. Not too many players can push him off the puck. Crunching Phaneuf early in the game was a good indicator of things to come.
4. We saw the return of David Krejci last night. It can't be long until he goes back up to the first line. He is just so good with the puck on his stick. As Jack would say, he's the master of time and space. Although he didn't show up on the score sheet, he had a solid game and didn't appear to show any lingering affects from his "core" injury. He also went 11 for 16 at the face off dot.
5. The Bruins special teams showed up last night too. The PK unit has been lights out all year long, shutting down the Leafs on all 4 of their power plays. On the year the PK unit has killed off 28 of 32 power plays for 10th best in the league. Not too shabby. The PP unit also ate their Wheaties this morning, going 2 for 5 on the night. As Bergeron said after the game, they kept it simple and didn't hesitate.
6. The defense looked very good tonight. Chara had a monster game (goal and 2 assists), Ference had a monster first period (3 assists) and a monster open ice hit on Grabovski. During the preseason there was a battle for the 7th defensemen between Bartkowski and Kampfer. After watching the last two games, it's CLEAR Kampfer is the 7th defensemen. The only bad was Siedenberg was a minus 1. EEeek.
7. For the first time this season, you didn't feel like our goalies had to be unbelievable in order for us to get the win. Lucky for us, our goaltenders are unbelievable anyways. It wasn't necessary for Thomas to be stellar tonight, but when he needed to make a save he did. Stoning Grabovski on the break away and Steckel on the doorstep during the closing seconds of the second were huge, timely saves. He almost had an assist as he threw one down the ice to Seguin that was called offsides.
8. Phil Kessel... ahhh the trade that keeps on giving. As a Bruins fan, you have to get a little giddy when you see him put up 0-0-0 -1 and Seguin puts up 1-2-3 +2. It's just beautiful. At the end of the month Golden Spokes will do a "Prospect Preview" and see how the talent pipeline is looking. If you watched the game last night, you saw stats on how Jared Knight and Dougie Hamilton are tearing it up for their juniors teams in the OHL right now.
Next up: Saturday vs San Jose Sharks (1-3-0) Welcome back, Jumbo Joe.
8 Golden Points:
1. As we saw in the later part of the 'Canes game (which I'd like to forget about), Julien went with a different combination of lines to start this game and boy does he look like a genius. This looked like a completely different team out there. 6 goals from 6 different players. The Maple Leafs came into this game red hot while the B's have been ice cold. You would not have known that after watching this game.
2. I think I'm going to change the name of this segment to 7 Golden Points + Seguin. Last night, instead of playing center on the top line, he slid over and played ring wing along with Kelly and Lucic. How'd he respond? A goal and 2 assists. In 7 games Seguin is 2-6-8 +5. As a team we've only scored 17 total goals and he's been apart of 8. One of his best plays came at the end of a shift, he hustle backed on a defense, dove and broke up an odd man rush. He's doing it all! And I repeat... "THANK YOU KESSEL!!"
3. In my last 8 Golden Points, I mention Lucic and Horton were just baiting everyone into thinking they sucked and that they were going to start playing well real soon. Well as always (or on rare occasion...whatever), I was right. The best game of the year from these two. When Looch plays that North-South hockey, he's nearly unstoppable. Not too many players can push him off the puck. Crunching Phaneuf early in the game was a good indicator of things to come.
4. We saw the return of David Krejci last night. It can't be long until he goes back up to the first line. He is just so good with the puck on his stick. As Jack would say, he's the master of time and space. Although he didn't show up on the score sheet, he had a solid game and didn't appear to show any lingering affects from his "core" injury. He also went 11 for 16 at the face off dot.
5. The Bruins special teams showed up last night too. The PK unit has been lights out all year long, shutting down the Leafs on all 4 of their power plays. On the year the PK unit has killed off 28 of 32 power plays for 10th best in the league. Not too shabby. The PP unit also ate their Wheaties this morning, going 2 for 5 on the night. As Bergeron said after the game, they kept it simple and didn't hesitate.
6. The defense looked very good tonight. Chara had a monster game (goal and 2 assists), Ference had a monster first period (3 assists) and a monster open ice hit on Grabovski. During the preseason there was a battle for the 7th defensemen between Bartkowski and Kampfer. After watching the last two games, it's CLEAR Kampfer is the 7th defensemen. The only bad was Siedenberg was a minus 1. EEeek.
7. For the first time this season, you didn't feel like our goalies had to be unbelievable in order for us to get the win. Lucky for us, our goaltenders are unbelievable anyways. It wasn't necessary for Thomas to be stellar tonight, but when he needed to make a save he did. Stoning Grabovski on the break away and Steckel on the doorstep during the closing seconds of the second were huge, timely saves. He almost had an assist as he threw one down the ice to Seguin that was called offsides.
8. Phil Kessel... ahhh the trade that keeps on giving. As a Bruins fan, you have to get a little giddy when you see him put up 0-0-0 -1 and Seguin puts up 1-2-3 +2. It's just beautiful. At the end of the month Golden Spokes will do a "Prospect Preview" and see how the talent pipeline is looking. If you watched the game last night, you saw stats on how Jared Knight and Dougie Hamilton are tearing it up for their juniors teams in the OHL right now.
Next up: Saturday vs San Jose Sharks (1-3-0) Welcome back, Jumbo Joe.
Wednesday, October 19, 2011
8 Golden Points: Game 6 vs Hurricanes
Hurricanes 4 - Bruins 1
8 Golden Points:
1. This game turned real ugly and real embarrassing REAL quick. Yes, I do believe the officials made some poor calls (Seidenberg's "boarding" and Chara's phantom high stick), but the Bruins need to keep their cool. You aren't going to win games when you are playing down one man for an extended period of time, let alone 2 men. It's nice to see Claude show some emotion and get ejected, but this team has to find a way to play some consistent hockey.
2. No matter how frustrating the game, it's embarrassing to see fans throw stuff onto the ice. There are only 2 times that's acceptable: hat trick (hats/lingerie...winky face) and a big playoff victory (rally towels). A cup full of your dip spit?!... get the heck out of here. Any of those people real hockey fans? Boo, curse, punch your friend in the arm, whatever. Don't throw stuff. Not cool
3. Although Chara couldn't play for 15 minutes (5 minutes for fighting and a 10 minute misconduct) afterwards, I appreciate what he was trying to do. For some reason this team can't stay focused for an entire game. He saw an opportunity to try and provide a spark for his team. Unfortunately he got slapped with a 10 minute misconduct because the Hurricane's don't know how to fight. Well I guess I can't blame Harrison, I'd turtle too if I saw Big Z coming my way.
4. While I was thoroughly amused watching Horton toss Gleason around like a rag-doll, it was completely uncalled for. Gleason's an agitator and could see Horton was about to boil over. A little cross check from behind and that set Horton off (combined with the fact Gleason wouldn't drop the gloves with Lucic moments before). At that point in the game the Bruins were starting to get momentum back as they just scored a power play goal (hip-hip-hooray!) and it was only a 2-1 game with plenty of time left. But that set off a chain of events where we were 1 or 2 men down for the next 7 minutes. Are you kidding me?! Can't cost your team the game like that.
5. TnR said this morning that Kelly has been getting hammered because he dropped a guy with a sweater over his head. Watch that fight again. When the sweater gets pulled over Sutter's head, Kelly stops. Sutter then continues to throw punches. What is Kelly suppose to do?! Exactly what he did. Get his arm free from his sweater and deliver the knock out punch. Plus the Hurricane's sweaters are white, he could see through it. Kelly's not a fighter, so seeing him accept the challenge is always nice to see.
6. Claude gave Bartkowski some shifts early with Ference. He did not earn much more than that. He struggled early, looking a bit silly on the first goal and made poor decisions on the back end. Ference was scrambling early to cover for his weak or off the mark passes. He's just the band aid until the Dude comes back, but it's clear Bartkowski needs some more time in Providence.
7. I have to give credit where credit's due. The Bruins gave it to the 'Canes early and Cam Ward put up the stonewall. They became frustrated with their inability to score and then were goated into taking stupid emotional penalties. Ward was the best player on the ice last night, though he needs to learn to keep his mouth shut... or not pick a fight with the biggest player in the league.
8. Tuukka Rask. He wasn't as good as he was against Colorado, but he still played a pretty damn good game. He kept them in the game until the 'Canes went on what felt like a period long 5v3 advantage. It's pretty hard to stop that. Maybe one day the Bruins will show up when he's in net. We also almost saw our second goalie fight in recent memory! Instead Ward used his impeccable persuasive skills to convince Rask he was merely discussing politics with the big fella.
Next up: Toronto
8 Golden Points:
1. This game turned real ugly and real embarrassing REAL quick. Yes, I do believe the officials made some poor calls (Seidenberg's "boarding" and Chara's phantom high stick), but the Bruins need to keep their cool. You aren't going to win games when you are playing down one man for an extended period of time, let alone 2 men. It's nice to see Claude show some emotion and get ejected, but this team has to find a way to play some consistent hockey.
2. No matter how frustrating the game, it's embarrassing to see fans throw stuff onto the ice. There are only 2 times that's acceptable: hat trick (hats/lingerie...winky face) and a big playoff victory (rally towels). A cup full of your dip spit?!... get the heck out of here. Any of those people real hockey fans? Boo, curse, punch your friend in the arm, whatever. Don't throw stuff. Not cool
3. Although Chara couldn't play for 15 minutes (5 minutes for fighting and a 10 minute misconduct) afterwards, I appreciate what he was trying to do. For some reason this team can't stay focused for an entire game. He saw an opportunity to try and provide a spark for his team. Unfortunately he got slapped with a 10 minute misconduct because the Hurricane's don't know how to fight. Well I guess I can't blame Harrison, I'd turtle too if I saw Big Z coming my way.
4. While I was thoroughly amused watching Horton toss Gleason around like a rag-doll, it was completely uncalled for. Gleason's an agitator and could see Horton was about to boil over. A little cross check from behind and that set Horton off (combined with the fact Gleason wouldn't drop the gloves with Lucic moments before). At that point in the game the Bruins were starting to get momentum back as they just scored a power play goal (hip-hip-hooray!) and it was only a 2-1 game with plenty of time left. But that set off a chain of events where we were 1 or 2 men down for the next 7 minutes. Are you kidding me?! Can't cost your team the game like that.
5. TnR said this morning that Kelly has been getting hammered because he dropped a guy with a sweater over his head. Watch that fight again. When the sweater gets pulled over Sutter's head, Kelly stops. Sutter then continues to throw punches. What is Kelly suppose to do?! Exactly what he did. Get his arm free from his sweater and deliver the knock out punch. Plus the Hurricane's sweaters are white, he could see through it. Kelly's not a fighter, so seeing him accept the challenge is always nice to see.
6. Claude gave Bartkowski some shifts early with Ference. He did not earn much more than that. He struggled early, looking a bit silly on the first goal and made poor decisions on the back end. Ference was scrambling early to cover for his weak or off the mark passes. He's just the band aid until the Dude comes back, but it's clear Bartkowski needs some more time in Providence.
7. I have to give credit where credit's due. The Bruins gave it to the 'Canes early and Cam Ward put up the stonewall. They became frustrated with their inability to score and then were goated into taking stupid emotional penalties. Ward was the best player on the ice last night, though he needs to learn to keep his mouth shut... or not pick a fight with the biggest player in the league.
8. Tuukka Rask. He wasn't as good as he was against Colorado, but he still played a pretty damn good game. He kept them in the game until the 'Canes went on what felt like a period long 5v3 advantage. It's pretty hard to stop that. Maybe one day the Bruins will show up when he's in net. We also almost saw our second goalie fight in recent memory! Instead Ward used his impeccable persuasive skills to convince Rask he was merely discussing politics with the big fella.
Next up: Toronto
Monday, October 17, 2011
8 Golden Points: Game 5 vs. Blackhawks
Bruins 3 - Blackhawks 2 SO
8 Golden Points:
1.) Seguin is making a strong case to remain part of the top line even when Krejci returns. Do I actually think this will happen? As of right now, no. But if Krejci returns and that line continues to struggle, Seguin has shown that he's more than capable of being the #1 center. Another strong game from the young man, assisting on the game tying score and netting the only goal in the shootout. [Kessel is having a nice start to the year as well]
2.) Timmy friggin' Thomas. There isn't any Cup hangover with this guy (27 saves). I think Edwards was trying to get Shane "Sheriff" Hnidy's attention at one point, calling Thomas a "thief" (at least all of Chicago didn't call 911). Who thinks Thomas should incorporate the Dikembe Mutombo "not in my house" finger gesture in his repertoire? I also love how after he makes an insane save they go to a close up of his face and he's just got this "yeah...that just happened" smirk on his face.
3.) As Joe Haggerty tweeted (@HackswithHaggs), Boychuk played like a "boss" the other night (1 A, 6 hits). That was one of the best games I've seen Boychuk play, if not the best. He was blocking shots, playing good defense, and did 99% of the work on Horton's goal. Maybe Boychuk should Occupy Horton's Locker to get that 1% to work harder.
4.) Peverley almost dropped about 8 spokes in my book. Luckily they won, so only 7.5. He found himself on a WIDE OPEN break away in OT. You have been named alternate captain of the defending Stanley Cup champions... in a "very close to a must" win game... OT.... you deked Crawford out of his onesie... and MISSED!! <insert curse word>
5.) Lucic and Horton, are you guys awake? I know you scored, Horton, but that is the ONLY time I noticed you. Plus didn't you read my 3rd point, Boychuk did all the work. These are two of my favorite players on the team, so it's really upsetting to me that they haven't shown up. Wait! I know! They are just lulling everyone into a false sense of security, then when we least expect it, they'll show up and score a double hat trick!! Brilliant!!
6.) It's a shame the NHL can't come up with a better way to get these two teams to play more. Original 6 match-up, great fans and these are two of the better teams in the NHL. Somethings got to be done. I don't know where I read it, but someone suggested an Original 6 round robin of sorts. I'd love to see that. One team gets the Original 6 trophy every 2 years of so. That was some damn good hockey.
7.) Ding ding ding. We had our first fight of the season! It wasn't anything to write home about. I appreciate Campbell trying to kick some life into the B's as they were zombie-esque in the early going. I'll really get excited once the Dude drops the mitts. Any chance he chokeslams someone through the ice?
8.) Power play. Yes, they have only scored once. Yes, that was the first power play of the season. I'm not saying I'm happy with the production, but anyone watching HAS to admit this looks better. If they keep playing like this on the power play the puck has to start going in. They are moving the puck a lot faster, they don't have Kaberle, and they aren't standing still. I guess I'm just a glass half full kind of guy.
Next up: REMATCH against the Carolina Hurricanes (2-2-1 5pts)
8 Golden Points:
1.) Seguin is making a strong case to remain part of the top line even when Krejci returns. Do I actually think this will happen? As of right now, no. But if Krejci returns and that line continues to struggle, Seguin has shown that he's more than capable of being the #1 center. Another strong game from the young man, assisting on the game tying score and netting the only goal in the shootout. [Kessel is having a nice start to the year as well]
2.) Timmy friggin' Thomas. There isn't any Cup hangover with this guy (27 saves). I think Edwards was trying to get Shane "Sheriff" Hnidy's attention at one point, calling Thomas a "thief" (at least all of Chicago didn't call 911). Who thinks Thomas should incorporate the Dikembe Mutombo "not in my house" finger gesture in his repertoire? I also love how after he makes an insane save they go to a close up of his face and he's just got this "yeah...that just happened" smirk on his face.
3.) As Joe Haggerty tweeted (@HackswithHaggs), Boychuk played like a "boss" the other night (1 A, 6 hits). That was one of the best games I've seen Boychuk play, if not the best. He was blocking shots, playing good defense, and did 99% of the work on Horton's goal. Maybe Boychuk should Occupy Horton's Locker to get that 1% to work harder.
4.) Peverley almost dropped about 8 spokes in my book. Luckily they won, so only 7.5. He found himself on a WIDE OPEN break away in OT. You have been named alternate captain of the defending Stanley Cup champions... in a "very close to a must" win game... OT.... you deked Crawford out of his onesie... and MISSED!! <insert curse word>
5.) Lucic and Horton, are you guys awake? I know you scored, Horton, but that is the ONLY time I noticed you. Plus didn't you read my 3rd point, Boychuk did all the work. These are two of my favorite players on the team, so it's really upsetting to me that they haven't shown up. Wait! I know! They are just lulling everyone into a false sense of security, then when we least expect it, they'll show up and score a double hat trick!! Brilliant!!
6.) It's a shame the NHL can't come up with a better way to get these two teams to play more. Original 6 match-up, great fans and these are two of the better teams in the NHL. Somethings got to be done. I don't know where I read it, but someone suggested an Original 6 round robin of sorts. I'd love to see that. One team gets the Original 6 trophy every 2 years of so. That was some damn good hockey.
7.) Ding ding ding. We had our first fight of the season! It wasn't anything to write home about. I appreciate Campbell trying to kick some life into the B's as they were zombie-esque in the early going. I'll really get excited once the Dude drops the mitts. Any chance he chokeslams someone through the ice?
8.) Power play. Yes, they have only scored once. Yes, that was the first power play of the season. I'm not saying I'm happy with the production, but anyone watching HAS to admit this looks better. If they keep playing like this on the power play the puck has to start going in. They are moving the puck a lot faster, they don't have Kaberle, and they aren't standing still. I guess I'm just a glass half full kind of guy.
Next up: REMATCH against the Carolina Hurricanes (2-2-1 5pts)
Friday, October 14, 2011
Game 3 and Game 4 Recap
My apologies for the late posts, but a surprise baby (Uncle Dome!!) has halted blogging.
I will not be doing 8 Golden Points for games I do not watch on TV or live. I feel that repeating someone else's points of the game aren't my points at all. But I will share my thoughts on what I read...
Avalanche 1 - Bruins 0
This game was played on a Monday afternoon. Unfortunately, my job doesn't give fake holidays off so I had to sit in my cube and listen to as much as I could on 98.5. I was able to tune in towards the end of the 1st period and the commentators were not pleased with the B's effort. They said if it hadn't been for Rask, the game would have been out of hand early. The remaining periods didn't seem all the much better either. They had their chances, but just couldn't finish.
Rask is probably thinking "here we go again". He makes 35 saves, let's in one goal... and loses. The defending Stanley Cup champions should be able to put in ONE stinking goal against the second to worst team last year. Pathetic.
After the game, Julien called out the top line. Good!! In previous seasons, I don't think he would have done that. Maybe he understands that this year he needs to have a shorter leash on the players. Especially in the early going when everyone is gunning for them.
Hurricanes 3 - Bruins 2
I was able to catch about a period of this game. I thought Thomas made some really nice saves (though that Stewart goal was weak). More importantly, Seguin was clearly the best player for the Bruins. With Krejci out with a "core injury", Seguin stepped into the #1 center role nicely. Even without the goal, I would've said he was the best player out there, but then he roofed a beautiful shot top shelf. Man, he's going to be good.
I didn't see Marchand's goal, but so far it seems like every time I'm writing a recap for a game it's Marchand - Seguin... Seguin - Marchand. I'm very pleased that the two players who seemed to be celebrating the most this offseason are the ones that have seemingly put the Cup victory behind them.
The Bruins don't have the skill to take nights off. They won it all last year because they worked their tails off and wanted it more than the other team. They need to step up their game and get over this stupid Stanley Cup hangover. It's obviously not time to panic, but I'm not happy with what I'm seeing so far
Hopefully the Dude is okay. The end boards said something mean about his mother and he gave it a solid head butt with the side of his fache. He's travelling with the team, so we'll see if he plays Saturday night.
Next up: Chicago (2-1-0)
I will not be doing 8 Golden Points for games I do not watch on TV or live. I feel that repeating someone else's points of the game aren't my points at all. But I will share my thoughts on what I read...
Avalanche 1 - Bruins 0
This game was played on a Monday afternoon. Unfortunately, my job doesn't give fake holidays off so I had to sit in my cube and listen to as much as I could on 98.5. I was able to tune in towards the end of the 1st period and the commentators were not pleased with the B's effort. They said if it hadn't been for Rask, the game would have been out of hand early. The remaining periods didn't seem all the much better either. They had their chances, but just couldn't finish.
Rask is probably thinking "here we go again". He makes 35 saves, let's in one goal... and loses. The defending Stanley Cup champions should be able to put in ONE stinking goal against the second to worst team last year. Pathetic.
After the game, Julien called out the top line. Good!! In previous seasons, I don't think he would have done that. Maybe he understands that this year he needs to have a shorter leash on the players. Especially in the early going when everyone is gunning for them.
Hurricanes 3 - Bruins 2
I was able to catch about a period of this game. I thought Thomas made some really nice saves (though that Stewart goal was weak). More importantly, Seguin was clearly the best player for the Bruins. With Krejci out with a "core injury", Seguin stepped into the #1 center role nicely. Even without the goal, I would've said he was the best player out there, but then he roofed a beautiful shot top shelf. Man, he's going to be good.
I didn't see Marchand's goal, but so far it seems like every time I'm writing a recap for a game it's Marchand - Seguin... Seguin - Marchand. I'm very pleased that the two players who seemed to be celebrating the most this offseason are the ones that have seemingly put the Cup victory behind them.
The Bruins don't have the skill to take nights off. They won it all last year because they worked their tails off and wanted it more than the other team. They need to step up their game and get over this stupid Stanley Cup hangover. It's obviously not time to panic, but I'm not happy with what I'm seeing so far
Hopefully the Dude is okay. The end boards said something mean about his mother and he gave it a solid head butt with the side of his fache. He's travelling with the team, so we'll see if he plays Saturday night.
Next up: Chicago (2-1-0)
Sunday, October 9, 2011
8 Golden Points: Game 2 vs Lightning
Bruins 4 - Lightning 1
8 Golden Points:
1.) There were some whispers that Rask would get the start, but Handsome Ralph (Julien) went right back with Thomas last night. Lightning fans probably threw up in there mouth a little bit when Thomas pulled out a deja vous moment and robbing Malone with a diving paddle save. Thomas made 26 saves and the only goal he let up was to fellow Catamount alum St. Louis on a break-away.
2.) In my expert opinion, Marchand has been the best player to start the season. He collected 2 assists last night and had many opportunities to net a few goals. The Gnat has not slowed down one bit from last season, through the preseason, and now to start the season. Along with showing off offensively, he put on a tutorial (take notes Downie) on how to be a agitator. He did a great job all night frustrating the Lightning (St. Louis for one).
3.) Not to be outdone by his fellow youngster, Seguin has been the second best player to start the season. His confidence is through the roof right now, 3 points in 2 games. Not only is he showing up on the score sheet, but his overall play and "compete level" has significantly improved from last year.
3.) As I mentioned a month or so ago, Lucic plays with a lot of emotion. He usually uses it in a positive manner, but we see him once in awhile throw a slash out of frustration. We saw that last night. One of the times Hedman did fall down like his name was Suppan, but Looch has to keep his cool.
4.) Downie again shows why I absolutely despise him. I understand his role, most teams have one of him. His job is to get under the other team's skin and hopefully goat them into doing something stupid. The difference is, he's a bitch. He engages in a little patty-cake with Chara, but then turns to the ref when Chara smacks him in the face. Marchand's a gnat, but he at least will stand up for himself.
5.) McQuaid made his season debut last night. Yeah, he gets his own point. When you rock a mullet and look to rock opponents faces on the reg, you earn ample Golden Spokes press. I nearly jumped through the roof when I thought McQuaid had scored. Unfortunately, that thief Paille stole it from him. Jerk.
6.) I'm not quite sure why the Lightning aren't getting more press. They have Lecavalier, St Louis and Stamkos: three of the best players in the entire league. Great win against a championship caliber team.
7.) The power-play didn't cash in, but you cannot deny it looked a hell of a lot better than anything we've seen in a LONG time. There was a lot of movement, plenty of shots and opportunities, and I wasn't screaming my head off at the TV. I thought the second unit was particular impressive. They were flying all over the place. Now that's what I like to see. They need to start finishing though.
8.) Return of Jack and Brick!!! Best way to enjoy a game... actually be there. Next best way to enjoy the game, NESN with Jack and Brick. If you disagree you probably would also tell me white mint chocolate chip is better than green. Preposterous.
Next up: Western Conference foe, Colorado Avalanche (0-1-0).
8 Golden Points:
1.) There were some whispers that Rask would get the start, but Handsome Ralph (Julien) went right back with Thomas last night. Lightning fans probably threw up in there mouth a little bit when Thomas pulled out a deja vous moment and robbing Malone with a diving paddle save. Thomas made 26 saves and the only goal he let up was to fellow Catamount alum St. Louis on a break-away.
2.) In my expert opinion, Marchand has been the best player to start the season. He collected 2 assists last night and had many opportunities to net a few goals. The Gnat has not slowed down one bit from last season, through the preseason, and now to start the season. Along with showing off offensively, he put on a tutorial (take notes Downie) on how to be a agitator. He did a great job all night frustrating the Lightning (St. Louis for one).
3.) Not to be outdone by his fellow youngster, Seguin has been the second best player to start the season. His confidence is through the roof right now, 3 points in 2 games. Not only is he showing up on the score sheet, but his overall play and "compete level" has significantly improved from last year.
3.) As I mentioned a month or so ago, Lucic plays with a lot of emotion. He usually uses it in a positive manner, but we see him once in awhile throw a slash out of frustration. We saw that last night. One of the times Hedman did fall down like his name was Suppan, but Looch has to keep his cool.
4.) Downie again shows why I absolutely despise him. I understand his role, most teams have one of him. His job is to get under the other team's skin and hopefully goat them into doing something stupid. The difference is, he's a bitch. He engages in a little patty-cake with Chara, but then turns to the ref when Chara smacks him in the face. Marchand's a gnat, but he at least will stand up for himself.
5.) McQuaid made his season debut last night. Yeah, he gets his own point. When you rock a mullet and look to rock opponents faces on the reg, you earn ample Golden Spokes press. I nearly jumped through the roof when I thought McQuaid had scored. Unfortunately, that thief Paille stole it from him. Jerk.
6.) I'm not quite sure why the Lightning aren't getting more press. They have Lecavalier, St Louis and Stamkos: three of the best players in the entire league. Great win against a championship caliber team.
7.) The power-play didn't cash in, but you cannot deny it looked a hell of a lot better than anything we've seen in a LONG time. There was a lot of movement, plenty of shots and opportunities, and I wasn't screaming my head off at the TV. I thought the second unit was particular impressive. They were flying all over the place. Now that's what I like to see. They need to start finishing though.
8.) Return of Jack and Brick!!! Best way to enjoy a game... actually be there. Next best way to enjoy the game, NESN with Jack and Brick. If you disagree you probably would also tell me white mint chocolate chip is better than green. Preposterous.
Next up: Western Conference foe, Colorado Avalanche (0-1-0).
Friday, October 7, 2011
8 Golden Points: Game 1 vs Flyers
Flyers 2 - Bruins 1
8 Golden Points:
1.) Holy crap that opening montage was AWESOME. I was reliving the emotional wreck I was the entire postseason. The suspense of playoff hockey is second to none. I literally need to remind myself to breathe or I may pass out. I'm not a huge fan of the talking, I think that makes it drag on a bit (no offense Brick). Bringing back some of the '72 boys to help raise the banner was a classy move by the organization as well. Oh man, if you didn't get misty eyed when that banner started flying, you probably just started watching the team on June 15th and wear a pink Seguin jersey.
2.) Sophmore slump? Puh-leez. Both Seguin and Marchy might've been the best Bruins on the ice last night. Seguin's thread-the-needle pass to spring the Gnat for our lone goal was beautiful and Marchand's move on Bryzgalov was pretty nifty. He had the opportunity for another few goals as well. Very excited to see what these two will do this season. Hopefully they don't pull a Lackey and Beckett and drink their fache off.
3.) Power-play was a mixed bag. And not like a delicious trail mix. You know, some pretzels/crackers/nuts, but then you strike gold with an M&M!! Marchand's goal was on our first power play, but the next few opportunities looked eerily similar to last year: a whole lotta watching and standing going on. The last two power plays in the third looked a heck of a lot better. Which one are we going to see this season?
4.) Horton, Horty, Hortster. WIDE OPEN NET. Just lift the damn thing, I've seen you roof a shot before. Falling away while shooting at an "open" net. If he stayed strong on his skates he could have lifted it over Timonen's stick. But no, I jump off my couch ready to do a little jig of excitement... only to sit back down without getting to do a jig of excitement. Totally...not...cool.
5.) Like most fans, Adam McQuaid's hair due was at the top of my "to see" list. I'm happy to report, the mullet lives. Unfortunately, McQuaid has a virus that only descendants of Hercules get, so he had to sit this one out. I didn't notice Bartkowski, which I guess is a good thing. If I had it probably would mean he coughed up the puck or made a stupid pass. Keep the bench warm, good sir. The Dude shall return.
6.) I was thoroughly impressed with Grandpa Jagr. I did not think he was going to look that good coming back to the NHL at this point in his career but he proved me waaaay wrong. And if you keep reading this blog, you will see that that is REALLY hard to do. The guy can still play and play really well. He set up the Flyers first goal with a nice pass and then had a few opportunities himself throughout the game. Can he keep it up the whole season? It'll be interesting to see how the Flyers monitor his minutes.
7.) Voracek... Voracek. Where did I read that name before?? OH YEAH. He was picked right before Zach Hamill. And Logan Couture was picked right after. That's like having the most delicious bread in the world, but you realized the turkey you were throwing in between flat out SUCKS!
8.) After coming out flying, it looked like the Bruins just ran out of gas. In the back of your mind, you had to expect that. They come out, warm up, get loose, then sit around for another 30-40 minutes. Then they are all jacked up off adrenaline, then crash. I wouldn't trade any of that in for anything, but it'll be nice to have last season behind us. It's repeat time now.
I guess my well thought out prediction of the team going 82-0 isn't going to happen.
NEW PREDICTION: 81-1!!!
Next up: Eastern Conference Finals rematch against the Lightning.
8 Golden Points:
1.) Holy crap that opening montage was AWESOME. I was reliving the emotional wreck I was the entire postseason. The suspense of playoff hockey is second to none. I literally need to remind myself to breathe or I may pass out. I'm not a huge fan of the talking, I think that makes it drag on a bit (no offense Brick). Bringing back some of the '72 boys to help raise the banner was a classy move by the organization as well. Oh man, if you didn't get misty eyed when that banner started flying, you probably just started watching the team on June 15th and wear a pink Seguin jersey.
2.) Sophmore slump? Puh-leez. Both Seguin and Marchy might've been the best Bruins on the ice last night. Seguin's thread-the-needle pass to spring the Gnat for our lone goal was beautiful and Marchand's move on Bryzgalov was pretty nifty. He had the opportunity for another few goals as well. Very excited to see what these two will do this season. Hopefully they don't pull a Lackey and Beckett and drink their fache off.
3.) Power-play was a mixed bag. And not like a delicious trail mix. You know, some pretzels/crackers/nuts, but then you strike gold with an M&M!! Marchand's goal was on our first power play, but the next few opportunities looked eerily similar to last year: a whole lotta watching and standing going on. The last two power plays in the third looked a heck of a lot better. Which one are we going to see this season?
4.) Horton, Horty, Hortster. WIDE OPEN NET. Just lift the damn thing, I've seen you roof a shot before. Falling away while shooting at an "open" net. If he stayed strong on his skates he could have lifted it over Timonen's stick. But no, I jump off my couch ready to do a little jig of excitement... only to sit back down without getting to do a jig of excitement. Totally...not...cool.
5.) Like most fans, Adam McQuaid's hair due was at the top of my "to see" list. I'm happy to report, the mullet lives. Unfortunately, McQuaid has a virus that only descendants of Hercules get, so he had to sit this one out. I didn't notice Bartkowski, which I guess is a good thing. If I had it probably would mean he coughed up the puck or made a stupid pass. Keep the bench warm, good sir. The Dude shall return.
6.) I was thoroughly impressed with Grandpa Jagr. I did not think he was going to look that good coming back to the NHL at this point in his career but he proved me waaaay wrong. And if you keep reading this blog, you will see that that is REALLY hard to do. The guy can still play and play really well. He set up the Flyers first goal with a nice pass and then had a few opportunities himself throughout the game. Can he keep it up the whole season? It'll be interesting to see how the Flyers monitor his minutes.
7.) Voracek... Voracek. Where did I read that name before?? OH YEAH. He was picked right before Zach Hamill. And Logan Couture was picked right after. That's like having the most delicious bread in the world, but you realized the turkey you were throwing in between flat out SUCKS!
8.) After coming out flying, it looked like the Bruins just ran out of gas. In the back of your mind, you had to expect that. They come out, warm up, get loose, then sit around for another 30-40 minutes. Then they are all jacked up off adrenaline, then crash. I wouldn't trade any of that in for anything, but it'll be nice to have last season behind us. It's repeat time now.
I guess my well thought out prediction of the team going 82-0 isn't going to happen.
NEW PREDICTION: 81-1!!!
Next up: Eastern Conference Finals rematch against the Lightning.
Wednesday, October 5, 2011
Twas' The Night Before Hockey
'Twas the night before hockey returned to the city
Showing pictures of the rings that look OH so pretty
Showing pictures of the rings that look OH so pretty
They will raise the 6th banner up to new heights
I hope Burrows is watching thinking… this bites
The Cup will be on display for the fans to woo
With all the spelling correct unlike the Gnats tattoo
Good bye Ryder, we won’t miss you at all
Nor will the Cup, for tonight it is safe from an epic fall
The bear has awaken, the Garden crowd will roar
As the dormant puckheads are dormant no more
Recchi will be present, but not on his skates
Replaced by Pouliot, who Edwards clearly hates
The Tank is rested, ready and pumped up his tires
For tomor’ begins another season 'gainst the Flyers
Versus has the game, so even if Timmy steals the show
They will talk about JVR because his d*** they do bl**
A repeat championship would absolutely be great
Even though that hasn’t happened since the Red Wings in '98
Sequels usually stink, except the Mighty Ducks 2
Knuckle pucks, bash brothers, and wu wu wu Kenny wu…
I’m starting to doze as the night turns to dawn
One more night, then the Lucic jersey goes on
Good night, sleep tight and rest well please
Remember to keep coming to Golden Spokes, for all your Boston Bruins needs!!
LET’S GO BRUINS!!!
B's Bling
Anyone who has watched, played, followed, or suffered through the 39 year championship drought has been waiting for three things:
1. Seeing The Stanley cup back in the Hub.
2. The chance of a repeat.1. Seeing The Stanley cup back in the Hub.
3. How blinged out their rings would be.
Well, we've got #1 down, and #2 starts Thursday night at the Garden when the Bruins begin their march toward another cup. On Tuesday, the rings were unveiled for the first time, and boy are they nice.
Thank god that drought is over. These rings, if you have not seen them, are probably worth more than my truck. I guess the Jacobs’ family really cheaped out by only putting 300 diamonds on the ring…..ridiculous. Check out the legend finally getting his ring.
·
(Top) Bruins logo on top of the cup
(Side 1) Players name, number, and 6 diamonds representing the 6 Stanley cups
(Side 2) Stanley cup with the years of each win
(Inside engraving) Series recap from the 2011 playoffs
(Top) Bruins logo on top of the cup
(Side 1) Players name, number, and 6 diamonds representing the 6 Stanley cups
(Side 2) Stanley cup with the years of each win
(Inside engraving) Series recap from the 2011 playoffs
Best part, they have designed replica rings for fans to buy! It may not be the real thing, but it's as close it's as close as it gets. There's only one word to describe walking around with your own Bruins replica Stanley Cup Champions ring. BOSS.
Roster Breakdown Part 3
As we all expected the last remaining long shots have been sent down to Providence:
F Max Sauve: 2008 2nd Rounder
F Lane MacDermid: 2009 4th Rounder
G Anton Khudobin: 2004 7th Rounder by MIN, acquired in a trade for Jeff Penner and Mikko Lehtonen
With Kampfer injuring his knee in the second to last preseason game, that pretty much ends that battle for the 7th defensemen. He suffered a sprained MCL and will be out for 2-4 weeks. This will give Matt Bartkowski some solid practice time with the big guys. I don't expect to see him in any games too early unless there is an injury. We all know Claude never ever sits anyone for performance... **cough** WIDEMAN **cough**. Excuse me, with the fall weather coming I must be coming down with a cold...
According to Boston.com, the Bruins will NOT give Chris Clark a contract. He was invited to training camp and played the whole preseason without a contract. That's some good news for Jordan Caron as many thought he was going to be sent down to Providence because he didn't need to clear waivers (me being one of them). Though I am very happy Caron staying. I'm just not completely sold on Pouliot.
Clark shouldn't have any trouble finding a home. From what I read he played well in the preseason and if Caron didn't show up to the table chomping at the bit, he probably would've made the team.
F Max Sauve: 2008 2nd Rounder
F Lane MacDermid: 2009 4th Rounder
G Anton Khudobin: 2004 7th Rounder by MIN, acquired in a trade for Jeff Penner and Mikko Lehtonen
With Kampfer injuring his knee in the second to last preseason game, that pretty much ends that battle for the 7th defensemen. He suffered a sprained MCL and will be out for 2-4 weeks. This will give Matt Bartkowski some solid practice time with the big guys. I don't expect to see him in any games too early unless there is an injury. We all know Claude never ever sits anyone for performance... **cough** WIDEMAN **cough**. Excuse me, with the fall weather coming I must be coming down with a cold...
According to Boston.com, the Bruins will NOT give Chris Clark a contract. He was invited to training camp and played the whole preseason without a contract. That's some good news for Jordan Caron as many thought he was going to be sent down to Providence because he didn't need to clear waivers (me being one of them). Though I am very happy Caron staying. I'm just not completely sold on Pouliot.
Clark shouldn't have any trouble finding a home. From what I read he played well in the preseason and if Caron didn't show up to the table chomping at the bit, he probably would've made the team.
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