A lot to catch up on... but I'll take it slow, don't want to overload one post.
First and foremost the single biggest bit of news this offseason is Tim Thomas deciding to take a year sabatical from hockey for "Family, Friends, and Faith". Now, I've been asked many times what I think (probably because I didn't blog about it...my b).
Only time will tell if his leave of absense is actually because of family, friends, and faith. If it is, which is obviously possible, then the human in me is okay with it. If he's unhappy with Boston or unhappy with his contract, then that'll be a whole different rant for a different post. Let's remember Thomas hasn't had the easiest career path. Let's recap:
University of Vermont
Birmingham Bulls (ECHL) 1997-1998
Houston Aeros (IHL) 1997-1998
Finland 1997-1998
Hamilton Bulldogs (AHL) 1998-1999
Finland 1999-2000
Detroit Vipers (IHL) 1999-2000
Sweden 2000-2002
Providence Bruins 2002-2004
Sweden 2004-2005 (lockout)
Boston Bruins 2005-present
That's a hell of a lot of moving around in a 4-5 year span. Now I'm not naive, I'm sure MANY MANY aspiring athletes in all sports go through similar moves to try and make it to the bigs, but that still doesn't make it easier on his family and friends.
But that's the human in me. The insane diehard B's fan in me is fairly pissed. His cap hit is $5mil. That's a large cap hit for someone that is playing let alone someone that's not. If suspending a player eliminated their cap hit, and if the B's put Marc Savard on long term injury reserve, which would eliminate his cap hit, that's $9mil of available cap room. Let me repeat...
$9 MILLION DOLLARS WORTH OF CAP ROOM
That would allow the Bruins to be contenders for Parise or Suter. *droooooool*
Is there a potential for cap relief? Yes. Currently there is a floor, which is the opposite of a cap. Teams have to spend a certain amount of money on their payroll each year. I'm assuming the new CBA is going to have this as well. If there is a team that is under the floor, what better way to get there without actually paying any money than by trading for Thomas (who's no trade clause expires July 1st...even though reports are he waived had it already). The team receives the $5mil cap hit, but the owner doesn't pay an additional dime. Two teams that are linked to this is the Colorado Avalanche and the Quebec Nor... I mean New York Islanders.
To be honest, Thomas should be thanking Tuukka. Everyone would be a hell of a lot more pissed at him if Rask wasn't on the verge of being the starter. And Tuukka should be thanking Thomas, it's pretty clear now that he's the number one goalie!
A Boston Bruins blog by Dome
Saturday, June 30, 2012
Tuesday, May 29, 2012
First move of the offseason: Good-bye Zach Hamill
In the first move of the offseason, Chiarelli decided to close the painful chapter known as the Zach Hamill Experiment. The former first round draft pick and current restricted free agent was sent packing to D.C. in exchange for the son of Bruins legend, Chris Bourque.
As I've written before, Hamill has been the biggest draft bust for the Bruins in recent memories. It's been frustrating waiting for him to develop with later draft picks leap frogging him on the depth chart like he didn't even exist. He was suppose to have plus offensive skills, but just needed to get bigger and play more responsible defense. Unfortunately, he just never panned out in Julien's system. Maybe a change of scenery will be good for him. If the Capitals go back to their "run and gun" style of play, he'd fit in perfectly. Okay well maybe not perfectly, but much better than here.
Really the only sexy thing about Chris Bourque is that he's the son of Ray Bourque. His production in the pros has been borderline nonexistent; playing in 33 games total and only sporting a 1-3-4 and a minus 6. First they have to sign him as he's an unrestricted free agent (though I'm sure they will). Secondly, I can't see him cracking the big club to start. He's been a fairly productive AHLer and that's where I believe he begins his Boston career.
Thursday, April 26, 2012
The Pain...Oh The Pain!!!
By losing Game 7 in overtime last night, the Bruins did what they've done so many times in the past...cut me deep. I hate losing. I hate underachieving. That's what this season is because of this first round exit: an underachievement. I'll just keep telling myself that losing in awful ways like this is what makes seasons like last year so enjoyable.
With that said, the B's should've beat the Capitals. I'm not saying they would've repeat as champions, but they should've won the first round and possibly the second round, depending who they get matched up with.
Why did they lose this series?
1. It's too late now, but I think Hood's next batch of milk cartons has Lucic's, Krejci's, and Marchand's face on it. I'm not putting Peverley in that mix because he's a third line winger that was put on the first or second line. I'd even put Seguin in this category, but he at least tried to salvage his reputation with a good effort in both game's 6 and 7. When your goal scorers and top players don't produce, it's going to be very hard to win. Once in awhile your 3rd or 4th line will have to win you a game, but the other times your 1st two lines are suppose to carry your offense. Where did they go???
2. To think the Bruins could get away with another atrocious power play unit is asinine. Especially in a game that was decided by one goal every game, imagine what a decent power play would've done? I would argue that a better power play would've led to the B's winning this series in 6...
3. I know I'm a bit over the top with my love for McQuaid, but you all MUST see his value now. The third D-pairing consisted of some combination of Corvo, Zanon, and Mottau. Sorry I just threw up in my mouth a little bit. No, McQuaid isn't winning a Norris trophy anytime soon, but he can play defense, he's mean as hell, and he knows how to get the puck deep. I hope all three of those traffic cones are gone this offseason. That leaves a spot for Dougie Hamilton and then I'd sign another older d-men for back-up.
4. A healthy Patrice Bergeron would've increased the B's chances of winning by a hell of a whole lot. I'm not just saying that because he missed the potential game winner in OT. I'm saying this because the B's were noticeably HORRENDOUS at the face off circle last night. It's a lot easier to win games when you have possession of the puck. I know that's a bit radical, but just take it for what it's worth.
5. Heart. Desire. Whatever you want to call it. That "it" that you saw last year, I just didn't see it this series. They didn't look like they were willing to do whatever it took to win the game. Maybe they were just mentally fatigued from last year and this season. Who knows. But now they have a longer offseason to reflect, rest, and reload.
Those are my main points. I don't want to hear "Holtby stole the show" or that he was too good for us. That's horseshit. If you watched last night he was basically begging the Bruins to score with the juicy rebounds he was letting up. I thought Holtby played well at times during the series, but he was not this super human goaltender like Thomas was last year.
This is hard to say because friggin' Wideman is lumped into this category, but you need to give the Capitals D some credit. They blocked a million and two shots and most of the horrible rebounds Holtby gave up were swept away by the defense.
Now who am I rooting for? This is hard. The part of me that wants the NHL as a league to succeed thinks it'd be best for the Rangers and the Flyers to meet in the Eastern Conference finals. The fan in me hates those teams and is probably rooting for the Senators because I have a man crush on Daniel Alfredsson.
In the West? Kings maybe. Anybody but Phoenix. Though it would be humorous. Has a team ever won the Cup and then relocated within 2-3 years??
I'll still be blogging throughout the summer. This should be an interesting offseason for the B's. They are still a championship caliber team, so they only need to make a few fixes...in theory.
With that said, the B's should've beat the Capitals. I'm not saying they would've repeat as champions, but they should've won the first round and possibly the second round, depending who they get matched up with.
Why did they lose this series?
1. It's too late now, but I think Hood's next batch of milk cartons has Lucic's, Krejci's, and Marchand's face on it. I'm not putting Peverley in that mix because he's a third line winger that was put on the first or second line. I'd even put Seguin in this category, but he at least tried to salvage his reputation with a good effort in both game's 6 and 7. When your goal scorers and top players don't produce, it's going to be very hard to win. Once in awhile your 3rd or 4th line will have to win you a game, but the other times your 1st two lines are suppose to carry your offense. Where did they go???
2. To think the Bruins could get away with another atrocious power play unit is asinine. Especially in a game that was decided by one goal every game, imagine what a decent power play would've done? I would argue that a better power play would've led to the B's winning this series in 6...
3. I know I'm a bit over the top with my love for McQuaid, but you all MUST see his value now. The third D-pairing consisted of some combination of Corvo, Zanon, and Mottau. Sorry I just threw up in my mouth a little bit. No, McQuaid isn't winning a Norris trophy anytime soon, but he can play defense, he's mean as hell, and he knows how to get the puck deep. I hope all three of those traffic cones are gone this offseason. That leaves a spot for Dougie Hamilton and then I'd sign another older d-men for back-up.
4. A healthy Patrice Bergeron would've increased the B's chances of winning by a hell of a whole lot. I'm not just saying that because he missed the potential game winner in OT. I'm saying this because the B's were noticeably HORRENDOUS at the face off circle last night. It's a lot easier to win games when you have possession of the puck. I know that's a bit radical, but just take it for what it's worth.
5. Heart. Desire. Whatever you want to call it. That "it" that you saw last year, I just didn't see it this series. They didn't look like they were willing to do whatever it took to win the game. Maybe they were just mentally fatigued from last year and this season. Who knows. But now they have a longer offseason to reflect, rest, and reload.
Those are my main points. I don't want to hear "Holtby stole the show" or that he was too good for us. That's horseshit. If you watched last night he was basically begging the Bruins to score with the juicy rebounds he was letting up. I thought Holtby played well at times during the series, but he was not this super human goaltender like Thomas was last year.
This is hard to say because friggin' Wideman is lumped into this category, but you need to give the Capitals D some credit. They blocked a million and two shots and most of the horrible rebounds Holtby gave up were swept away by the defense.
Now who am I rooting for? This is hard. The part of me that wants the NHL as a league to succeed thinks it'd be best for the Rangers and the Flyers to meet in the Eastern Conference finals. The fan in me hates those teams and is probably rooting for the Senators because I have a man crush on Daniel Alfredsson.
In the West? Kings maybe. Anybody but Phoenix. Though it would be humorous. Has a team ever won the Cup and then relocated within 2-3 years??
I'll still be blogging throughout the summer. This should be an interesting offseason for the B's. They are still a championship caliber team, so they only need to make a few fixes...in theory.
Friday, April 20, 2012
B's Lose Game 2, Bounce Back in Game 3
Bruins 1 - Capitals 2 (2OT) -- Boston leads series 2-1
Bruins 4 - Capitls 3 (not in OT)
Well, my playoff win streak has come to an end. I attended game 2 with high hopes but was rewarded with one of the most boring games of hockey I've ever attended. The Capitals played the ever so excited trap game, where they basically pack everyone in and around the net and hope for a 1-0, 2-1 game...and they got it.
I thought both of the Capitals goals were fairly weak, but the play of the Bruins was even weaker. No one was crashing the net. Man have I come along way, but (Pepe le) Pouliot is the ONLY forward playing well right now. He's digging deep, winning battles and managing to score those "dirty" goals. Other than that, Seidenberg is playing like a boss still. He's just a beast!!! This game sucked and that's all I'm going to say about it.
I would just like to personally the Capitals for being idiots. At the end of the second period, they poked Lucic one too many times and as we've heard Jack say, "DON'T POKE THE BEAR". As I've said many times, I'm a huge Looch fan...HUGE. But I cannot even try to defend his play the first 11 periods of playoff hockey (including the overtimes). He has been an immense disappointment, seems to be lacking energy and focus. Hence why I'm thanking the Capitals. That skirmish at the end of the second period injected life into his game. BY FAR the best period of hockey from Lucic (and really the rest of the team) was that third period. Alzner, thank you as well. I'll say a prayer for you, but making a cry baby motion to Looch is probably one of the stupider moments of your life.
We're starting to see cheap play of coach's Dale Hunters game creep into his players game. Jason Chimera poked Marchand in the gonads and Backstrom cross-checked Peverley in the face. Backstrom ended up getting suspended for it, which I agree with but at the same time I wouldn't have gone crying to my Mommy if he wasn't...
Although it would've been a tough save, I would've liked to see Thomas make that save on Laich that tied the game. Big players come up big in big moments. Right there was a big moment, and Laich won. Luckily Thomas redeemed himself by making a point-blank save a little later and before seriously causing health problems Chara won the game with under 2 minutes left to avoid a third straight overtime.
The third period was by far the best period of hockey for the entire team, lots of shots, but also much better net presence. I already know the outcome of Game 4 and I'm very upset. I thought the momentum from the end of Game 3 would've positively carried over into Game 4. WRONG. Ugh.
I am finishing up this post early Friday morning, I missed yesterdays game as I was traveling to San Diego during it... Needless to say I'm angry and I don't even want to watch the highlights...
Think anyone around here knows what hockey is?
Bruins 4 - Capitls 3 (not in OT)
Well, my playoff win streak has come to an end. I attended game 2 with high hopes but was rewarded with one of the most boring games of hockey I've ever attended. The Capitals played the ever so excited trap game, where they basically pack everyone in and around the net and hope for a 1-0, 2-1 game...and they got it.
I thought both of the Capitals goals were fairly weak, but the play of the Bruins was even weaker. No one was crashing the net. Man have I come along way, but (Pepe le) Pouliot is the ONLY forward playing well right now. He's digging deep, winning battles and managing to score those "dirty" goals. Other than that, Seidenberg is playing like a boss still. He's just a beast!!! This game sucked and that's all I'm going to say about it.
I would just like to personally the Capitals for being idiots. At the end of the second period, they poked Lucic one too many times and as we've heard Jack say, "DON'T POKE THE BEAR". As I've said many times, I'm a huge Looch fan...HUGE. But I cannot even try to defend his play the first 11 periods of playoff hockey (including the overtimes). He has been an immense disappointment, seems to be lacking energy and focus. Hence why I'm thanking the Capitals. That skirmish at the end of the second period injected life into his game. BY FAR the best period of hockey from Lucic (and really the rest of the team) was that third period. Alzner, thank you as well. I'll say a prayer for you, but making a cry baby motion to Looch is probably one of the stupider moments of your life.
We're starting to see cheap play of coach's Dale Hunters game creep into his players game. Jason Chimera poked Marchand in the gonads and Backstrom cross-checked Peverley in the face. Backstrom ended up getting suspended for it, which I agree with but at the same time I wouldn't have gone crying to my Mommy if he wasn't...
Although it would've been a tough save, I would've liked to see Thomas make that save on Laich that tied the game. Big players come up big in big moments. Right there was a big moment, and Laich won. Luckily Thomas redeemed himself by making a point-blank save a little later and before seriously causing health problems Chara won the game with under 2 minutes left to avoid a third straight overtime.
The third period was by far the best period of hockey for the entire team, lots of shots, but also much better net presence. I already know the outcome of Game 4 and I'm very upset. I thought the momentum from the end of Game 3 would've positively carried over into Game 4. WRONG. Ugh.
I am finishing up this post early Friday morning, I missed yesterdays game as I was traveling to San Diego during it... Needless to say I'm angry and I don't even want to watch the highlights...
Think anyone around here knows what hockey is?
Saturday, April 14, 2012
Bruins Take Game 1!!!
Bruins 1 - Capitals 0 (OT) --- Boston leads series 1-0
PHEW....
A few shots of Jameson and a few homebrews later, I have survived the first postseason game of 2012. This team kills me! Of course they would play a 0-0 game (Claude's favorite) and go to OT in the FIRST game of the postseason. They need to have a general surgeon warning before these games, detrimental to my health I tell ya...
The message to the Bruins was very clear: shoot, shoot, shoot. I understand why, the young Holtby was playing in his first playoff game and they wanted to test him early. I just wish after the first period, they went back to trying to create more quality opportunities. You have to give Holtby a TON of credit. While I didn't think the quality of shots was necessarily there, he stepped up to the plate. If it wasn't for the freak at the other end of the ice (known as Tim Thomas around these parts), he would've gotten a shutout in his first NHL playoff game.
Speaking of Thomas, if he plays like that night in and night out, the Bruins have a chance to make a deep run. No, he didn't get tested a lot, but I thought the shots the Capitals did take were quality shots for the most part. We're one game in and we may have the save of the series. When I saw the puck being moved to Ovechkin, stick cocked back about to unleash a laser of a one-timer, and almost half of the net wide open, I swear my coffee table started trembling because it knew a punch and or a kick was coming. Instead Thomas decided to put his yoga skills to good use and flash a right skate save. Unbelievable. Just unbelievable.
The best match up of the night goes to Seidenberg versus Ovechkin...hands down. Unlike Cindy Crosby, Ovechkin is a baller. Like him or not, he's tough as nails and loves throwing the big hits (game high 7 last night). Luckily for him, the Bruins also love playing physical. The German and the Russian were going at all night. The great part is that none of it was cheap, it was all within the rules of the game. The best hit came early on in the game when Seidenberg lined Ovechkin up, but Ovechkin was able to brace himself and even give it back to the Bruin defenseman. Beautiful hockey...
I thought all the lines except Bergie's line was struggling to find rhythm. The top especially seemed to be out of sync. I want to see Looch get in front of the net a little more. He's one of the bigger forwards in the league and if he parks is toosh in front of Holtby, I'm sure the first line will put some pucks in the net. GET TO THE DIRTY AREAS, LOOCH!!
Another disappointing aspect of the B's game was their power play. I will say it looks better than last year, but we all know that isn't saying much. I think a JV high school teams power play looks better than the B's last year. At least this year, they are generating chances, keeping the puck in the offensive zone, and use it as a momentum gainer. Last year, I would've preferred if the refs DIDN'T call a penalty since usually the opposing team would use it to gain momentum back. So, although better, they need to start scoring.
My "Dennis Wideman" award goes to Joe Corvo. It's upsetting that one of my favorite players, McQuaid, is out and my least favorite player, Corvo, takes his spot. He's not tough, he can't play defense, and most frustrating of all he shoots the puck into a Capitals defender EVERY TIME. Mike Green laid down on the ice many seconds before Corvo even thought about shooting. Instead of lifting the puck over Green, which I'm assuming every NHLer can do, he shoots right into him. I'm not sure what's wrong with McQuaid, but I NEED him to come back ASAP. COME ON, DUDE!!!
Alright peeps, I'll be at game 2 (thanks, Johnny!). 3:00pm on Saturday. I'll be sure to go bonkers for everyone. I was 6-0 in the playoffs last year, let's hope I can keep the streak alive!!!
PHEW....
A few shots of Jameson and a few homebrews later, I have survived the first postseason game of 2012. This team kills me! Of course they would play a 0-0 game (Claude's favorite) and go to OT in the FIRST game of the postseason. They need to have a general surgeon warning before these games, detrimental to my health I tell ya...
The message to the Bruins was very clear: shoot, shoot, shoot. I understand why, the young Holtby was playing in his first playoff game and they wanted to test him early. I just wish after the first period, they went back to trying to create more quality opportunities. You have to give Holtby a TON of credit. While I didn't think the quality of shots was necessarily there, he stepped up to the plate. If it wasn't for the freak at the other end of the ice (known as Tim Thomas around these parts), he would've gotten a shutout in his first NHL playoff game.
Speaking of Thomas, if he plays like that night in and night out, the Bruins have a chance to make a deep run. No, he didn't get tested a lot, but I thought the shots the Capitals did take were quality shots for the most part. We're one game in and we may have the save of the series. When I saw the puck being moved to Ovechkin, stick cocked back about to unleash a laser of a one-timer, and almost half of the net wide open, I swear my coffee table started trembling because it knew a punch and or a kick was coming. Instead Thomas decided to put his yoga skills to good use and flash a right skate save. Unbelievable. Just unbelievable.
The best match up of the night goes to Seidenberg versus Ovechkin...hands down. Unlike Cindy Crosby, Ovechkin is a baller. Like him or not, he's tough as nails and loves throwing the big hits (game high 7 last night). Luckily for him, the Bruins also love playing physical. The German and the Russian were going at all night. The great part is that none of it was cheap, it was all within the rules of the game. The best hit came early on in the game when Seidenberg lined Ovechkin up, but Ovechkin was able to brace himself and even give it back to the Bruin defenseman. Beautiful hockey...
I thought all the lines except Bergie's line was struggling to find rhythm. The top especially seemed to be out of sync. I want to see Looch get in front of the net a little more. He's one of the bigger forwards in the league and if he parks is toosh in front of Holtby, I'm sure the first line will put some pucks in the net. GET TO THE DIRTY AREAS, LOOCH!!
Another disappointing aspect of the B's game was their power play. I will say it looks better than last year, but we all know that isn't saying much. I think a JV high school teams power play looks better than the B's last year. At least this year, they are generating chances, keeping the puck in the offensive zone, and use it as a momentum gainer. Last year, I would've preferred if the refs DIDN'T call a penalty since usually the opposing team would use it to gain momentum back. So, although better, they need to start scoring.
My "Dennis Wideman" award goes to Joe Corvo. It's upsetting that one of my favorite players, McQuaid, is out and my least favorite player, Corvo, takes his spot. He's not tough, he can't play defense, and most frustrating of all he shoots the puck into a Capitals defender EVERY TIME. Mike Green laid down on the ice many seconds before Corvo even thought about shooting. Instead of lifting the puck over Green, which I'm assuming every NHLer can do, he shoots right into him. I'm not sure what's wrong with McQuaid, but I NEED him to come back ASAP. COME ON, DUDE!!!
Alright peeps, I'll be at game 2 (thanks, Johnny!). 3:00pm on Saturday. I'll be sure to go bonkers for everyone. I was 6-0 in the playoffs last year, let's hope I can keep the streak alive!!!
Tuesday, April 10, 2012
Feeling good....for now
Although the final three games of the season were meaningless points wise, the Bruins ended the season feeling pretty good about themselves and winning 2 of them. That means the B's went 7-2-1. Yeah, this is the turn around I was PRRRAAAYYIINNG for.
It wasn't the way that it was drawn up, but the Bruins also managed to give Timmy a lot of rest. He only played in the regular season finale and the B's didn't even allow him to travel with the team for their away game against Ottawa. The Bruins go as far as Thomas is going to take them. Everyone knows he caught fire last spring, he's playing well and is hopefully fresh enough to help the B's make another deep run.
With the Senators losing to the Devils and the Capitals defeating the Rangers, the Bruins first round opponent is going to be the Capitals instead of the Senators. As I said earlier, I would've preferred the Senators, but I still think the B's can handle the Caps.
You have to feel pretty good about the B's depth, too. Even when facing a few injuries, Julien was still able to rest some of their players. Here are some other things I'm feeling good about:
- Providence Bruins goalie, Anton Khudobin, came in a played a great game against the Senators (44 saves). It thankfully appears that Rask will be able to resume backup duties relatively soon. BUT if Khudobin has to serve as backup for a few games, that performance settled my fears slightly. It was strategic at the time to let Khudobin play against the Senators as they appears to be our first round opponent. In all honesty, I don't want to see ANY backup goalies because that means something happened to Thomas.
- Injuries: I hope he doesn't see the ice, but the news that Rask could be ready for the postseason is reassuring. McQuaid, who's only played 2 periods of hockey since suffering an eye injury against the Rangers, is hopefully ready to rock and roll. I'll be the optimist assuming the reports are true that the B's just held him out to be overly cautious. He better not be wearing a visor either. I need him ready to be a very physical presence and be ready to throw down when needed. Boychuk's knee injury was also scary at the time, but he also appears to be ready to go for the playoffs. He's had a great season and I'm hoping he can carry that into the postseason
- All four lines are playing pretty consistently right now and the offense is coming from everyone. Most importantly, Lucic and Krejci seem to be on a roll. As everyone knows, Lucic had a VERY disappointing playoffs last year but is entering this one playing some of his best hockey. I'm not as concerned with Krejci, he seems to get bored during the regular season, but in big spots steps up his game (see last playoff run and the last Olympics).
- This is nearly the same team as last year. They've been through the grind, they know what it takes. They've been down 0-2 TWICE and have come back to win the series. They've won home Game 7's and away Game 7's. They've won in overtime. They've survived injuries (Horton). What else can be thrown at them? They are one year older, one year wiser, and should be able to handle whatever lies in the road ahead.
Enjoy your final day off before the real season begins!! I'm excited for the Flyers-Whiners...I mean Pens game. That should be one hell of a series. Playoff series against rivals are just the best....stressful as all hell...but the best.
It wasn't the way that it was drawn up, but the Bruins also managed to give Timmy a lot of rest. He only played in the regular season finale and the B's didn't even allow him to travel with the team for their away game against Ottawa. The Bruins go as far as Thomas is going to take them. Everyone knows he caught fire last spring, he's playing well and is hopefully fresh enough to help the B's make another deep run.
With the Senators losing to the Devils and the Capitals defeating the Rangers, the Bruins first round opponent is going to be the Capitals instead of the Senators. As I said earlier, I would've preferred the Senators, but I still think the B's can handle the Caps.
You have to feel pretty good about the B's depth, too. Even when facing a few injuries, Julien was still able to rest some of their players. Here are some other things I'm feeling good about:
- Providence Bruins goalie, Anton Khudobin, came in a played a great game against the Senators (44 saves). It thankfully appears that Rask will be able to resume backup duties relatively soon. BUT if Khudobin has to serve as backup for a few games, that performance settled my fears slightly. It was strategic at the time to let Khudobin play against the Senators as they appears to be our first round opponent. In all honesty, I don't want to see ANY backup goalies because that means something happened to Thomas.
- Injuries: I hope he doesn't see the ice, but the news that Rask could be ready for the postseason is reassuring. McQuaid, who's only played 2 periods of hockey since suffering an eye injury against the Rangers, is hopefully ready to rock and roll. I'll be the optimist assuming the reports are true that the B's just held him out to be overly cautious. He better not be wearing a visor either. I need him ready to be a very physical presence and be ready to throw down when needed. Boychuk's knee injury was also scary at the time, but he also appears to be ready to go for the playoffs. He's had a great season and I'm hoping he can carry that into the postseason
- All four lines are playing pretty consistently right now and the offense is coming from everyone. Most importantly, Lucic and Krejci seem to be on a roll. As everyone knows, Lucic had a VERY disappointing playoffs last year but is entering this one playing some of his best hockey. I'm not as concerned with Krejci, he seems to get bored during the regular season, but in big spots steps up his game (see last playoff run and the last Olympics).
- This is nearly the same team as last year. They've been through the grind, they know what it takes. They've been down 0-2 TWICE and have come back to win the series. They've won home Game 7's and away Game 7's. They've won in overtime. They've survived injuries (Horton). What else can be thrown at them? They are one year older, one year wiser, and should be able to handle whatever lies in the road ahead.
Enjoy your final day off before the real season begins!! I'm excited for the Flyers-Whiners...I mean Pens game. That should be one hell of a series. Playoff series against rivals are just the best....stressful as all hell...but the best.
Sunday, April 8, 2012
Good bye 2011-2012 Regular Season....
... and HEEELLLLOOOO PLAYOFF HOCKEY!!!
There's not a more suspenseful or emotional show on TV than watching your team make a deep Cup run. I'm only partially sure that I'm ready since it took months to recover from last year (no I wasn't partying with Marchand and Seguin). But that was last year, I was young and unprepared. I was bracing myself for some sort of epic failure like the past few seasons had ended and was caught off guard. This year, I'm prepared for anything, I'm a seasoned vet now. A repeat hasn't happened since the Red Wings did it in 1998, don't you think the league is due?
The Bruins now can defend their championship properly. The first team to enter the gauntlet will be the Washington Capitals. I will admit, I would've preferred the Senators. The Caps have been in playoff hockey mode for a few weeks now, battling the Sabres for the final spot in the East. After locking in their playoff spot, the Caps ended up leap frogging the Senators for 7th in the East. Chara and the boys better be ready for Ovechkin and company. Let the games begin!!!
I'll be posting my thoughts on the B's heading into the playoffs soon...
P.S.: Is the world ready for the fire beard??
There's not a more suspenseful or emotional show on TV than watching your team make a deep Cup run. I'm only partially sure that I'm ready since it took months to recover from last year (no I wasn't partying with Marchand and Seguin). But that was last year, I was young and unprepared. I was bracing myself for some sort of epic failure like the past few seasons had ended and was caught off guard. This year, I'm prepared for anything, I'm a seasoned vet now. A repeat hasn't happened since the Red Wings did it in 1998, don't you think the league is due?
The Bruins now can defend their championship properly. The first team to enter the gauntlet will be the Washington Capitals. I will admit, I would've preferred the Senators. The Caps have been in playoff hockey mode for a few weeks now, battling the Sabres for the final spot in the East. After locking in their playoff spot, the Caps ended up leap frogging the Senators for 7th in the East. Chara and the boys better be ready for Ovechkin and company. Let the games begin!!!
I'll be posting my thoughts on the B's heading into the playoffs soon...
P.S.: Is the world ready for the fire beard??
Tuesday, April 3, 2012
Northeast Division Champs!
After sweeping the weekend series in enemy territory (no phone calls, relatives??), the Bruins have locked up the Northeast Division and the #2 seed in the playoffs. I can't get over how much I hate watching games on TV when they are either at the Coliseum or at MSG. Both those buildings SUCK. I know the Islander's owner has been trying to get a new arena down there for a little while now, to no avail, but come on it's like half the light bulbs are burnt out. Anyways...
Playing Turco against the Islanders and saving Thomas for the Rangers was a no brainer, my only worry was that the B's could've been the one getting the broom. Even though the Islanders are sitting towards the bottom of the barrel, they have some great goal scorers and I still don't have a whole lot of confidence when Turco mans the pipes. He got some help, as the B's netted 6 goals, and we leave the Island for the mainland with a victory.
The Rangers victory was huge. I mean HUGE! The B's hadn't beaten them all year, though 2 out of the prior 3 games were close. This win locked up the division, locked up first round home-ice, and most importantly gave the B's that confidence to know that if they do see these guys in the Eastern Conference finals (knock on wood, kiss the rabbit foot, hop up and down on my left foot), they can beat them at their shitty arena. This was a fun game to watch as it had a playoff type feel; low scoring (2-1), great goaltending, and very physical play.
When the B's were on fire back in November/December, I kept saying it doesn't matter what they do now, but how they finish. When the B's were struggling horribly, I kept saying they had time (though not much) to turn it around, if they can catch a little fire going into the playoffs I'll feel good. Since the Florida Road Trip Massacre, the B's have gone 7-1-1, but more importantly going 3-1-1 against teams that are currently in the playoffs.
With the division locked up, I expect to see Claude giving his players some rest over the next three games. I'm hoping there's another two months of hockey to get out of this team! Anton Khudobin was called up today and hopefully we'll start seeing a few more prospects be brought in. If I had to guess, Thomas plays 2 out of the last 3. Ideally, I'd like to see either Khudobin play 2 out of the last 3 or Khudobin gets one, Rask gets one, and Thomas gets one, but I don't think Rask is ready quite yet.
It's almost time folks. The greatest time of year. There really isn't anything better than playoff hockey. It's also an excuse I get to use to grow out the beard!!!
Playing Turco against the Islanders and saving Thomas for the Rangers was a no brainer, my only worry was that the B's could've been the one getting the broom. Even though the Islanders are sitting towards the bottom of the barrel, they have some great goal scorers and I still don't have a whole lot of confidence when Turco mans the pipes. He got some help, as the B's netted 6 goals, and we leave the Island for the mainland with a victory.
The Rangers victory was huge. I mean HUGE! The B's hadn't beaten them all year, though 2 out of the prior 3 games were close. This win locked up the division, locked up first round home-ice, and most importantly gave the B's that confidence to know that if they do see these guys in the Eastern Conference finals (knock on wood, kiss the rabbit foot, hop up and down on my left foot), they can beat them at their shitty arena. This was a fun game to watch as it had a playoff type feel; low scoring (2-1), great goaltending, and very physical play.
When the B's were on fire back in November/December, I kept saying it doesn't matter what they do now, but how they finish. When the B's were struggling horribly, I kept saying they had time (though not much) to turn it around, if they can catch a little fire going into the playoffs I'll feel good. Since the Florida Road Trip Massacre, the B's have gone 7-1-1, but more importantly going 3-1-1 against teams that are currently in the playoffs.
With the division locked up, I expect to see Claude giving his players some rest over the next three games. I'm hoping there's another two months of hockey to get out of this team! Anton Khudobin was called up today and hopefully we'll start seeing a few more prospects be brought in. If I had to guess, Thomas plays 2 out of the last 3. Ideally, I'd like to see either Khudobin play 2 out of the last 3 or Khudobin gets one, Rask gets one, and Thomas gets one, but I don't think Rask is ready quite yet.
It's almost time folks. The greatest time of year. There really isn't anything better than playoff hockey. It's also an excuse I get to use to grow out the beard!!!
Thursday, March 29, 2012
Golden Points: Boston vs Tampa Bay
Bruins 5 - Lightning 2
After a relieving successful California road trip that saw the B's take two out of the three games, there first home game back was a perfect opportunity to get some revenge. The last time these two teams met, the Lightning made the B's look like orange cones, winning 6-1. Although the personnel isn't different, this is a completely different team. The butt whoopin' that they received down in the sunshine state, although very painful to watch, may have been the wake up call this team needed.
- First and foremost, that was a nice, brief celebration of Big Z hitting 1,000 games before the puck dropped. For a man his size, for the style of hockey he plays, and for the amount of minutes he plays, 1,000 games is a real credit to how hard Chara works to keep himself in top shape. Good work, Z. I hope for many more... He didn't disappoint the crowd either, dishing out three helpers on the night.
- This game displayed the Bruins depth as each line got a goal. That takes a lot of pressure off of the first two lines when you get goals from the 3rd and 4th line. Goals from the fourth line are rare, but recently the 3rd line has been carrying the load offensively. Even with Peverley back, Julien does not mess with the chemistry of Pouliot - Kelly - Rolston.
- Speaking of Rolston, I said I'd refrain from judging that trade until he got a few games under his belt. He looked slow and out of place when he first got here, but his conditioning has improved immensely and the chemistry he has with other two on that third line is a relief. This is exactly what we need, especially with Horton out for the unforeseeable future.
- Stamkos is filthy. Soon the NHL should replace Ovechkin with Stamkos. I'm not sure if it's because he's in Tampa, but the NHL needs to showcase this guy more. He's young and just nasty. How this team doesn't make the playoffs with a 55+ goal scorer on their team is a sin. I expect them to be very busy this offseason. Or at least very aggressive towards either Schneider or Bernier.
Next up: The desperate Capitals come into town tonight. They lost a huge game the other night against the Sabres. Both tied for points for the 8th spot in the playoffs, the Capitals failed to give themselves some breathing room by letting the Sabres come into their own house and beat them. Anyways, the Capitals are staring up at the playoff picture right now and will be playing some desperate hockey. Another good test for the B's!
The magic number 4 points, but that number is calculated off of the Capitals, so a win tonight would mean a playoff spot is LOCKED. Just for the record, 6 points locks up the division.
I expect Timmy to get the nod again tonight, with Turco getting the start Saturday against the Islanders and then Timmy again on Sunday against the Rangers. Then if I had to guess, we would see Timmy against the Penguins and then I would think about resting him for the final two games. Those final two games I would hope to see many players getting a rest.
After a relieving successful California road trip that saw the B's take two out of the three games, there first home game back was a perfect opportunity to get some revenge. The last time these two teams met, the Lightning made the B's look like orange cones, winning 6-1. Although the personnel isn't different, this is a completely different team. The butt whoopin' that they received down in the sunshine state, although very painful to watch, may have been the wake up call this team needed.
- First and foremost, that was a nice, brief celebration of Big Z hitting 1,000 games before the puck dropped. For a man his size, for the style of hockey he plays, and for the amount of minutes he plays, 1,000 games is a real credit to how hard Chara works to keep himself in top shape. Good work, Z. I hope for many more... He didn't disappoint the crowd either, dishing out three helpers on the night.
- This game displayed the Bruins depth as each line got a goal. That takes a lot of pressure off of the first two lines when you get goals from the 3rd and 4th line. Goals from the fourth line are rare, but recently the 3rd line has been carrying the load offensively. Even with Peverley back, Julien does not mess with the chemistry of Pouliot - Kelly - Rolston.
- Speaking of Rolston, I said I'd refrain from judging that trade until he got a few games under his belt. He looked slow and out of place when he first got here, but his conditioning has improved immensely and the chemistry he has with other two on that third line is a relief. This is exactly what we need, especially with Horton out for the unforeseeable future.
- Stamkos is filthy. Soon the NHL should replace Ovechkin with Stamkos. I'm not sure if it's because he's in Tampa, but the NHL needs to showcase this guy more. He's young and just nasty. How this team doesn't make the playoffs with a 55+ goal scorer on their team is a sin. I expect them to be very busy this offseason. Or at least very aggressive towards either Schneider or Bernier.
Next up: The desperate Capitals come into town tonight. They lost a huge game the other night against the Sabres. Both tied for points for the 8th spot in the playoffs, the Capitals failed to give themselves some breathing room by letting the Sabres come into their own house and beat them. Anyways, the Capitals are staring up at the playoff picture right now and will be playing some desperate hockey. Another good test for the B's!
The magic number 4 points, but that number is calculated off of the Capitals, so a win tonight would mean a playoff spot is LOCKED. Just for the record, 6 points locks up the division.
I expect Timmy to get the nod again tonight, with Turco getting the start Saturday against the Islanders and then Timmy again on Sunday against the Rangers. Then if I had to guess, we would see Timmy against the Penguins and then I would think about resting him for the final two games. Those final two games I would hope to see many players getting a rest.
Thursday, March 22, 2012
Golden Points: Boston vs Toronto
Yeah yeah yeah, I skipped a few games. The game against Florida I wanted to puke my brains out it was so pathetic. Then they finally put together a good effort against the Flyers on St. Patty's day. I'll let you figure out the reason why I didn't blog that day... or the next.
Bruins Snowman - Toronto Goose Egg
Most of the players on the Maple Leafs probably already have their summer plans booked and the tee times confirmed, but you would think a team that is about to face a season sweep would show up with a little more pride than what they played with the other night. I honestly don't know if the B's were that good or the Leafs were that bad.
- Favorite part of last night, anyone that knows me can guess. Yup, Lucic vs Komisarek Part...uh... 5? I don't think Komisarek will ever learn. He keeps trying to fight Lucic and he keeps losing. Most of the times it's not even close. This time he even had the chance to walk away. Looch gave him a shove then just started to glide backwards because a ref stood in the way. Dumb idiot Komisarek just kept on a'coming. I wonder how is jaw felt the next day.
- Next favorite play was Seguin's pass to Marchand on the Gnat's power play goal. That was just filthy. A no-look rifle through the D to an open Marchand who roofs it in. That was just gorgeous. Can we please see this type of power play on a regular basis?! PLEASE!
- Something Bruins fans should be encouraged by is the drastically improved play of Chris Kelly. He's played very well the past few games and that third line is REALLY clicking right now. After starting out his second go around with the B's looking like father time had caught up to him, Rolston seems to have found the fountain of youth at the right time. He's showing a lot of chemistry with Pepe and Kelly. I wonder what will happen if Peverley makes it back on the ice this trip. It's a good sign that he's travelling with the team, but I don't think you should break up this line just yet.
- I could really go down the whole line up and sing praises to everyone, but that'd be boring. This is a big road trip coming up. Three games on the left coast against three teams that are fighting for their lives. It will be a good test to see if the B's have actually turned it around and if they are ready for some playoff hockey. I would love to get 4 out 6 points. With the loss coming because we gave Turco a start.
We need 10 more points to secure a playoff spot and 14 more to secure the division. Then we just need additional 32 after that...
Bruins Snowman - Toronto Goose Egg
Most of the players on the Maple Leafs probably already have their summer plans booked and the tee times confirmed, but you would think a team that is about to face a season sweep would show up with a little more pride than what they played with the other night. I honestly don't know if the B's were that good or the Leafs were that bad.
- Favorite part of last night, anyone that knows me can guess. Yup, Lucic vs Komisarek Part...uh... 5? I don't think Komisarek will ever learn. He keeps trying to fight Lucic and he keeps losing. Most of the times it's not even close. This time he even had the chance to walk away. Looch gave him a shove then just started to glide backwards because a ref stood in the way. Dumb idiot Komisarek just kept on a'coming. I wonder how is jaw felt the next day.
- Next favorite play was Seguin's pass to Marchand on the Gnat's power play goal. That was just filthy. A no-look rifle through the D to an open Marchand who roofs it in. That was just gorgeous. Can we please see this type of power play on a regular basis?! PLEASE!
- Something Bruins fans should be encouraged by is the drastically improved play of Chris Kelly. He's played very well the past few games and that third line is REALLY clicking right now. After starting out his second go around with the B's looking like father time had caught up to him, Rolston seems to have found the fountain of youth at the right time. He's showing a lot of chemistry with Pepe and Kelly. I wonder what will happen if Peverley makes it back on the ice this trip. It's a good sign that he's travelling with the team, but I don't think you should break up this line just yet.
- I could really go down the whole line up and sing praises to everyone, but that'd be boring. This is a big road trip coming up. Three games on the left coast against three teams that are fighting for their lives. It will be a good test to see if the B's have actually turned it around and if they are ready for some playoff hockey. I would love to get 4 out 6 points. With the loss coming because we gave Turco a start.
We need 10 more points to secure a playoff spot and 14 more to secure the division. Then we just need additional 32 after that...
Wednesday, March 14, 2012
Golden Points: Boston vs Tampa Bay
I was unable to really watch the two weekend games. Some might say that's fortunate. I was fairly upset that Timmy started both games, I was hoping to see Turco start one of the two (preferably Washington). But I was also hoping a team that resembles one that won a Stanley Cup recently would know how to play with a little urgency...
I'm going to go old style of recapping this game with just some bullet points:
Bruins 1 - Lightning 6
- Don't bitch about the first goal. Yes I agree it was a kicking motion and it shouldn't have been ruled a goal, but that still doesn't excuse the lack of heart and effort the B's played with last night. FIVE other goals were scored. Bad bounces and bad calls are part of the game, suck it up and move on.
- Are you surprised Turco looked rusty?? If you thought he was going to come in and post a shutout you're smoking some funky stuff that needs to be passed this way. Before he got pulled, one goal was his fault (goal #2). The other 2 goals I don't think were his fault, especially not the third. He hasn't played a game in the NHL all friggin' year. He's going to be rusty. Get over it. We need Thomas rested more than anything right now....
- Why bring Thomas in at all? The goal is to rest Thomas. If we're going to get killed with Turco in net, so be it, what other option do we have? I have to believe the B's are going to make the playoffs. I'd rather a 7 seed with a well rested Thomas than a 2 seed with a tired Thomas. You with me? The way the B's are playing right now, we're going to need Thomas to stand on his head for us. Rest him!
- Game changer: Thornton's STUPID penalty. I'm surprised he saw ANY ice time after that. Down 2 goals, although a shitty position, isn't the end of the world...especially when you basically have 60 minutes remaining to play. You put your team down a man unnecessarily and they score yet another. Dumb dumb dumb play. He's usually a very smart player, but he let his emotions get the better of him.
- I thought Lucic had a really strong game. He used his body and strength exceptionally well. Did he have anything to show for it? No not exactly, but he created ample opportunities either for himself or others most of the night.
- The Bruins lone goal was pretty nice. I still have no idea how Caron tipped that in. The puck was shot behind him and way wide of the net. Caron keeps playing well and he has earned a spot on the first line.
- The B's need to wake up. Yeah, getting some healthy bodies back would help, but there's more going on than that. Look in the mirror and play with some pride. They've strayed away from the defensive system that has won them many games and they NEED to get back to that. Defense and toughness. Get those back ASAP and we'll be alright. If not, start booking your tee time because it's going to be an early summer. I don't golf so I'll just get my swimmies blown up and iron my banana hammock.
- Congratulations to Steve Stamkos for hitting the 50 goal mark. He's flat out nasty. It's a bit shocking that the Lightning, who could've easily played in the Stanley Cup Finals last year, aren't a playoff team. This team is full of talent. I'd be tempted to trade away St. Louis and Lecavalier. Get complimentary pieces to fit around Stamkos. I'd also make a huge play for either Bernier or Schneider.
Next Up: The tour of God's waiting room continues as they play the Florida Panthers tomorrow. The Panthers have surprised everyone and are the division leaders right now of the JV Southeast division. It would be very nice the B's came out and played tough right from the puck drop.
I'm going to go old style of recapping this game with just some bullet points:
Bruins 1 - Lightning 6
- Don't bitch about the first goal. Yes I agree it was a kicking motion and it shouldn't have been ruled a goal, but that still doesn't excuse the lack of heart and effort the B's played with last night. FIVE other goals were scored. Bad bounces and bad calls are part of the game, suck it up and move on.
- Are you surprised Turco looked rusty?? If you thought he was going to come in and post a shutout you're smoking some funky stuff that needs to be passed this way. Before he got pulled, one goal was his fault (goal #2). The other 2 goals I don't think were his fault, especially not the third. He hasn't played a game in the NHL all friggin' year. He's going to be rusty. Get over it. We need Thomas rested more than anything right now....
- Why bring Thomas in at all? The goal is to rest Thomas. If we're going to get killed with Turco in net, so be it, what other option do we have? I have to believe the B's are going to make the playoffs. I'd rather a 7 seed with a well rested Thomas than a 2 seed with a tired Thomas. You with me? The way the B's are playing right now, we're going to need Thomas to stand on his head for us. Rest him!
- Game changer: Thornton's STUPID penalty. I'm surprised he saw ANY ice time after that. Down 2 goals, although a shitty position, isn't the end of the world...especially when you basically have 60 minutes remaining to play. You put your team down a man unnecessarily and they score yet another. Dumb dumb dumb play. He's usually a very smart player, but he let his emotions get the better of him.
- I thought Lucic had a really strong game. He used his body and strength exceptionally well. Did he have anything to show for it? No not exactly, but he created ample opportunities either for himself or others most of the night.
- The Bruins lone goal was pretty nice. I still have no idea how Caron tipped that in. The puck was shot behind him and way wide of the net. Caron keeps playing well and he has earned a spot on the first line.
- The B's need to wake up. Yeah, getting some healthy bodies back would help, but there's more going on than that. Look in the mirror and play with some pride. They've strayed away from the defensive system that has won them many games and they NEED to get back to that. Defense and toughness. Get those back ASAP and we'll be alright. If not, start booking your tee time because it's going to be an early summer. I don't golf so I'll just get my swimmies blown up and iron my banana hammock.
- Congratulations to Steve Stamkos for hitting the 50 goal mark. He's flat out nasty. It's a bit shocking that the Lightning, who could've easily played in the Stanley Cup Finals last year, aren't a playoff team. This team is full of talent. I'd be tempted to trade away St. Louis and Lecavalier. Get complimentary pieces to fit around Stamkos. I'd also make a huge play for either Bernier or Schneider.
Next Up: The tour of God's waiting room continues as they play the Florida Panthers tomorrow. The Panthers have surprised everyone and are the division leaders right now of the JV Southeast division. It would be very nice the B's came out and played tough right from the puck drop.
Friday, March 9, 2012
Golden Points: Boston vs Buffalo
Bruins 3 - Sabres 1
FINALLY!!!! The Bruins have won 2 games in a row. They hadn't done so since January 10th and 12th, YIKES!!! Remember when this team won 7 in a row... yea that seems like decades ago.
I was fairly nervous about this game going into it. The Sabres are playing desparate hockey right now, on the outside of the playoff picture but definitely within striking distance (10th). They had beaten the Bruins the past two times they've faced off and Ryan Miller had only allowed one goal total in both those contests.
One of the biggest points to note is that Miller did NOT play this game. Instead, Lindy Ruff decided to go with back-up Jhonas Enroth. Enroth didn't play poorly, in fact he made some really nice saves during the game. But Miller had only let in ONE GOAL in the last TWO GAMES against the B's. Interesting decision Ruff Stuff.
If you haven't seen the highlights of the game, I recommend it. All three goals the B's scored were pretty impressive. Campbell ended a 20 game goal draught by beautifully tipping in a shot from Thornton. The Sabres gave us a gift, leaving the puck right to Thornton in their own defensive zone that he just tee-d up.
The second goal by Boychuk was a flippin' laser. Boychuk probably has the second hardest slapshot on the team behind the captain. The only problem is he usually hits someone or misses the net. He didn't miss the net last night. Enroth didn't even see it as he went down as the puck went top shelf, murdering the goalies water bottle. Speaking of Boychuk, Johnny Boy also had the hit of the game laying out Thomas Vanek as he was coming out of his own zone. So much for feeling the effects of that concussion...
And third goal should be on an instructional video on how to transition from defense to offense. Big Z showed off some stick handling skills in his own zone, made a short pass to Seguin, who made a cross ice pass to Lucic, who hit Krejci charging the goal. It was just beautiful. This line is really getting going. As I've said before, Lucic and Krejci are pretty streaky...let's hope this one doesn't end until summer time.
I thought Thomas could've saved that first goal, but after that he locked it down. Marty Turco, sporting his old Dallas Stars gold pads, was the back-up. I hope we see Turco sooner rather than later. Timmy needs the rest...badly. I want a fresh Timmy for the playoffs.
Anyone else need any love?? Caron extends his point streak to three games (keep it up youngin') and got promoted to the second line (sorry Rolston). Chara played a very physical game which I loved to see, not too many forwards can hang with that beast. I think that's it.
Next up: Washington on Saturday. Probably one of the more disappointing teams in the league. They could still make the playoffs, but with the talent that they have it should've been nearly locked up by now. Especially since they play in the weak Southeast division.
FINALLY!!!! The Bruins have won 2 games in a row. They hadn't done so since January 10th and 12th, YIKES!!! Remember when this team won 7 in a row... yea that seems like decades ago.
I was fairly nervous about this game going into it. The Sabres are playing desparate hockey right now, on the outside of the playoff picture but definitely within striking distance (10th). They had beaten the Bruins the past two times they've faced off and Ryan Miller had only allowed one goal total in both those contests.
One of the biggest points to note is that Miller did NOT play this game. Instead, Lindy Ruff decided to go with back-up Jhonas Enroth. Enroth didn't play poorly, in fact he made some really nice saves during the game. But Miller had only let in ONE GOAL in the last TWO GAMES against the B's. Interesting decision Ruff Stuff.
If you haven't seen the highlights of the game, I recommend it. All three goals the B's scored were pretty impressive. Campbell ended a 20 game goal draught by beautifully tipping in a shot from Thornton. The Sabres gave us a gift, leaving the puck right to Thornton in their own defensive zone that he just tee-d up.
The second goal by Boychuk was a flippin' laser. Boychuk probably has the second hardest slapshot on the team behind the captain. The only problem is he usually hits someone or misses the net. He didn't miss the net last night. Enroth didn't even see it as he went down as the puck went top shelf, murdering the goalies water bottle. Speaking of Boychuk, Johnny Boy also had the hit of the game laying out Thomas Vanek as he was coming out of his own zone. So much for feeling the effects of that concussion...
And third goal should be on an instructional video on how to transition from defense to offense. Big Z showed off some stick handling skills in his own zone, made a short pass to Seguin, who made a cross ice pass to Lucic, who hit Krejci charging the goal. It was just beautiful. This line is really getting going. As I've said before, Lucic and Krejci are pretty streaky...let's hope this one doesn't end until summer time.
I thought Thomas could've saved that first goal, but after that he locked it down. Marty Turco, sporting his old Dallas Stars gold pads, was the back-up. I hope we see Turco sooner rather than later. Timmy needs the rest...badly. I want a fresh Timmy for the playoffs.
Anyone else need any love?? Caron extends his point streak to three games (keep it up youngin') and got promoted to the second line (sorry Rolston). Chara played a very physical game which I loved to see, not too many forwards can hang with that beast. I think that's it.
Next up: Washington on Saturday. Probably one of the more disappointing teams in the league. They could still make the playoffs, but with the talent that they have it should've been nearly locked up by now. Especially since they play in the weak Southeast division.
Thursday, March 8, 2012
Turco in for Tuukka
As every knows, Tuukka was injured during the Islanders game with a lower abdomen/groin injury and will miss at the least the rest of the regular season. This sucks for multiple reasons:
1. Tuukka is arguably the best goaltender that is not a starting goaltender (you can throw Schneider and Bernier in that mix too). Even though Timmy will be the goaltender for the playoffs, Timmy's a bit old and the plan was most likely to lean heavily on Rask the last month and a half of the season to give Thomas some rest.
2. This injury occurred after the trade deadline. The options are significantly limited on trying to find a replacement.
3. The number one goalie in Providence, Anton Khudobin, is injured with a bum wrist. Plan D anyone?
When this happened I jokingly asked my roommate if he thought Chiarelli would kick the tires on Turco. I know at the start of the year he was hoping to sign with a team, but when that didn't happen he went over to Europe. My joke became a reality with the B's signing the 36 year old goaltender. If this was 10 years ago, hot digity dog I'd be excited.
Because the options are limited at this time of year and with the injury to Khudobin, I understand this signing and it realistically seems like the best option. Since he signed after the trade deadline he's not eligible to play for the playoffs, which isn't a big deal barring Rask is healthy by then.
All we need him to do is play in 6 or so games to let Thomas rest. If Turco somehow channels his younger self and catches fire (which I'm not banking on) we can give him more games. We just need him not to completely blow. We NEED a fresh Thomas for the playoffs.
Let's hope this works out!
1. Tuukka is arguably the best goaltender that is not a starting goaltender (you can throw Schneider and Bernier in that mix too). Even though Timmy will be the goaltender for the playoffs, Timmy's a bit old and the plan was most likely to lean heavily on Rask the last month and a half of the season to give Thomas some rest.
2. This injury occurred after the trade deadline. The options are significantly limited on trying to find a replacement.
3. The number one goalie in Providence, Anton Khudobin, is injured with a bum wrist. Plan D anyone?
When this happened I jokingly asked my roommate if he thought Chiarelli would kick the tires on Turco. I know at the start of the year he was hoping to sign with a team, but when that didn't happen he went over to Europe. My joke became a reality with the B's signing the 36 year old goaltender. If this was 10 years ago, hot digity dog I'd be excited.
Because the options are limited at this time of year and with the injury to Khudobin, I understand this signing and it realistically seems like the best option. Since he signed after the trade deadline he's not eligible to play for the playoffs, which isn't a big deal barring Rask is healthy by then.
All we need him to do is play in 6 or so games to let Thomas rest. If Turco somehow channels his younger self and catches fire (which I'm not banking on) we can give him more games. We just need him not to completely blow. We NEED a fresh Thomas for the playoffs.
Let's hope this works out!
Golden Points: Boston vs Toronto
Bruins 5 - Maple Leafs 4
Just like the past few games, I don't think the score accurately reflects the play of the game. The score makes it seem like the game was more evenly matched than I thought it was. The Bruins dominated for a majority of the time, so it was nice to see them finally get rewarded for their efforts with a W, ending a 2-game skid.
Right off the bat I have to mention the play of Jordan Caron. I failed to mention his name in my New York posting...my bad dude. It's pretty unbelievable what a little confidence can do. Caron was our first round draft pick back in 2009 He was called up last year occasionally when there was an injury or two and actually had the opportunity to win a spot on the third line to start this year (which I mistakenly said he'd win over Pouliot). With the injuries to Horton, Peverley, and Paille (and now Pouliot), there's been no shortage of opportunities for him.
He scored early in the game against the Rangers and we've seen almost a completely different player since. He scored two goals in the game the other night, but I don't even think either of those were his best play. The move he made to drive to the net on Kelly's goal was a prime example of how his confidence is through the roof right now. Let's hope you can keep this up and continue to develop into a first round talent. I don't want to be making any more "Zach Hamill" type charts for him!
Tyler Seguin also had two goals on the night. The hometown boy just loves to play in Toronto in front of friends and families. He always seems to have a big game when he plays there (his hat trick earlier in the year was at Toronto as well). His second goal was an absolute LASER. It also was a play that showed how poor Toronto plays on defense. Seguin was able to set up inside the face-off dot with his stick cranked back ready for a one-timer and NO ONE guarded him. Lucic found the open Seguin and before you blinked the puck was in the back of the net.
And lastly, I know I RARELY talk about hockey fights, but if you haven't seen Seidenberg demolish Colby Armstrong you have to hit up hockeyfights.com and take a peep. I'd actually recommend youtubing that shit because Jack Edward's call of the fight is priceless...as usual. Armstrong wouldn't go with Lucic, so then he lays a legal but pretty cheap hit on Seidenberg. Like the boss he is, the Dude flies over ready to rip him apart. Although a can't blame him, he quickly grapples with Seidenberg. Now although Seidenberg is as strong as an ox, he's not much of a fighter, so it's a bit of a cop out to refuse Lucic and McQuaid....but what happens next was AWESOME. Armstrong did not even through a single punch. Seidenberg blitzkrieg the shit out of him and the end result was a broken, bloody nose for Mr. Colby. I love this team.
Next up: Buffalo tonight. The Sabres have won the last two meetings against the B's with Miller only letting in 1 goal in both of those games. The B's need to figure out how to solve Miller...hey Looch I think you know what to do! Buffalo is already in playoff mode as they are fighting for a playoff spot and most likely will be for the rest of the season. They are two points behind Winnipeg and have been getting some great goaltending from Mr. Miller. These games have been very entertaining this year and I don't expect this game to be any different.
Just like the past few games, I don't think the score accurately reflects the play of the game. The score makes it seem like the game was more evenly matched than I thought it was. The Bruins dominated for a majority of the time, so it was nice to see them finally get rewarded for their efforts with a W, ending a 2-game skid.
Right off the bat I have to mention the play of Jordan Caron. I failed to mention his name in my New York posting...my bad dude. It's pretty unbelievable what a little confidence can do. Caron was our first round draft pick back in 2009 He was called up last year occasionally when there was an injury or two and actually had the opportunity to win a spot on the third line to start this year (which I mistakenly said he'd win over Pouliot). With the injuries to Horton, Peverley, and Paille (and now Pouliot), there's been no shortage of opportunities for him.
He scored early in the game against the Rangers and we've seen almost a completely different player since. He scored two goals in the game the other night, but I don't even think either of those were his best play. The move he made to drive to the net on Kelly's goal was a prime example of how his confidence is through the roof right now. Let's hope you can keep this up and continue to develop into a first round talent. I don't want to be making any more "Zach Hamill" type charts for him!
Tyler Seguin also had two goals on the night. The hometown boy just loves to play in Toronto in front of friends and families. He always seems to have a big game when he plays there (his hat trick earlier in the year was at Toronto as well). His second goal was an absolute LASER. It also was a play that showed how poor Toronto plays on defense. Seguin was able to set up inside the face-off dot with his stick cranked back ready for a one-timer and NO ONE guarded him. Lucic found the open Seguin and before you blinked the puck was in the back of the net.
And lastly, I know I RARELY talk about hockey fights, but if you haven't seen Seidenberg demolish Colby Armstrong you have to hit up hockeyfights.com and take a peep. I'd actually recommend youtubing that shit because Jack Edward's call of the fight is priceless...as usual. Armstrong wouldn't go with Lucic, so then he lays a legal but pretty cheap hit on Seidenberg. Like the boss he is, the Dude flies over ready to rip him apart. Although a can't blame him, he quickly grapples with Seidenberg. Now although Seidenberg is as strong as an ox, he's not much of a fighter, so it's a bit of a cop out to refuse Lucic and McQuaid....but what happens next was AWESOME. Armstrong did not even through a single punch. Seidenberg blitzkrieg the shit out of him and the end result was a broken, bloody nose for Mr. Colby. I love this team.
Next up: Buffalo tonight. The Sabres have won the last two meetings against the B's with Miller only letting in 1 goal in both of those games. The B's need to figure out how to solve Miller...hey Looch I think you know what to do! Buffalo is already in playoff mode as they are fighting for a playoff spot and most likely will be for the rest of the season. They are two points behind Winnipeg and have been getting some great goaltending from Mr. Miller. These games have been very entertaining this year and I don't expect this game to be any different.
Tuesday, March 6, 2012
Golden Points: Boston vs New York
Bruins 2 - Islanders 3
Bruins 3 - Rangers 4
What am I going to do with this team? Don't the Bruins know that my parents family grew up in New York? Me and my siblings are the only Boston sports fans. Do the Bruins know how much it sucks to get swept by the New York teams?!?!?! Screw the points they left out on the ice, think about me!
To be honest, I thought the B's played two pretty good games (minus the first few minutes of the Rangers game). The re-energized first line of Lucic, Krejci, and Seguin looked AWESOME again, with Seguin scoring a nice goal and Lucic grabbing a power play goal. The only problem was, like Claude pointed out, they aren't getting that "secondary" scoring. Who else is going to step up? We can't just rely on the normal players to give us a goal. A goal or two needs to come from someone else. They had plenty of opportunities, but just couldn't get one past Nabokov.
It was also good to see Boychuk back out on the ice. Sorry Mottau, you didn't get to face your old team.
A huge hold your breath moment during the game when you see Rask go down in pain like that. We now know it's a groin injury and that he'll miss 4-6 weeks. I initially thought it was a groin injury the whole time. People were speculating knee or hand. I'm probably the furthest thing from a doctor, but Rask flicks off his blocker and waves his hand indicating he needs the trainer to come on the ice immediately. Then what's the normal human reaction when you have an injury...you hold it. I don't know why, but when you get hurt you grab whatever is hurt. Tuukka placed both hands on his lower ab/groin area...hence why I thought it was his groin. If it was his knee wouldn't he be grabbing his knee? I think this might be the first thing I got right all season long!!
The icing or non-icing call... Was it bullshit? Yes. There was neither an icing signal or a non-icing signal, but who cares. You are taught at a very young age to "play 'til the whistle". Both Lucic and Seguin were right there and just stopped. Just an unfortunate play that ended up leading to the game winning goal. The B's can't use that as an excuse though, they had control of most of the game and had plenty of opportunities to finish them off.
Yeah yeah yeah, cousins, your lowly Isles beat the B's. Enjoy hockey in April...oh wait...enjoy another lottery pick.
Onto the Rangers............
I don't hate the Rangers as much as other people do. For one, they aren't in our division. I know people like to play the New York versus Boston card. It's a nice original 6 rivalry. Don't get me wrong, I don't like the Rangers, but I don't hate them as much as I hate the Jets or Yankees. For me, my hockey hatred is geared towards the Canadiens, Canucks, Flyers, Maple Leafs.
I give the Rangers front office credit. Earlier in the decade they tried building a team around individual stats and sexy names. It's like they were putting together a fantasy team with the likes of Jagr and Kovalev. Those guys were great, but the chemistry just didn't seem to be there. They've changed their approach and it all starts with their captain, Callahan. I was talking with a coworker and I agree, I would love Callahan to be a Bruin. He's the definition of a Bruin, hard working and tough. And that's what this Rangers team is.
Anyways, you take out the first few minutes (and the Rangers first two goals) and the game is ours. Why can't this team put together a full 60 minutes??? They aren't good enough right now to take even ONE shift off. After a couple bouts, the B's finally started playing much better. Big props to Lane MacDermaid who stood up for himself in his first NHL game. Rupp isn't like fighting Sergei Samsonov either, he's a very tough dude.
Even though the first goal was all Chara's fault, I still thought Thomas should've made the save. The second goal was a bit weak as well (yes I know it deflected off our own player), but I feel like last year Thomas figured out a way to keep the puck out of the net. Maybe he's tired, maybe he's old, either way he's our goalie the rest of the way and NEEDS to step it up. Just like last year, we go as far as Timmy will take us.
Claude finally got his secondary scoring from Jordan Caron and Pepe Le Pouliot. These weren't pretty goals, just making the other team pay for their mistakes which is what both teams did all night. Hopefully that third line can get rolling a little bit.
Although it's lame that Thomas used it as an excuse, I've always wondered why the "Greatest Arena on Earth" was called that and yet it has some of the WORST lighting on Earth. It's painful watching all the shadows on the ice. Come on!! How hard is it to put some lights up in there??
Next Up: The B's need to snap their 2-game losing streak against the Maple Leafs tonight. It'll be the Leafs first home game under their new coach, so you have to assume they'll come out flying. Hopefully the B's can match it or I'm throwing my computer out the window...
Bruins 3 - Rangers 4
What am I going to do with this team? Don't the Bruins know that my parents family grew up in New York? Me and my siblings are the only Boston sports fans. Do the Bruins know how much it sucks to get swept by the New York teams?!?!?! Screw the points they left out on the ice, think about me!
To be honest, I thought the B's played two pretty good games (minus the first few minutes of the Rangers game). The re-energized first line of Lucic, Krejci, and Seguin looked AWESOME again, with Seguin scoring a nice goal and Lucic grabbing a power play goal. The only problem was, like Claude pointed out, they aren't getting that "secondary" scoring. Who else is going to step up? We can't just rely on the normal players to give us a goal. A goal or two needs to come from someone else. They had plenty of opportunities, but just couldn't get one past Nabokov.
It was also good to see Boychuk back out on the ice. Sorry Mottau, you didn't get to face your old team.
A huge hold your breath moment during the game when you see Rask go down in pain like that. We now know it's a groin injury and that he'll miss 4-6 weeks. I initially thought it was a groin injury the whole time. People were speculating knee or hand. I'm probably the furthest thing from a doctor, but Rask flicks off his blocker and waves his hand indicating he needs the trainer to come on the ice immediately. Then what's the normal human reaction when you have an injury...you hold it. I don't know why, but when you get hurt you grab whatever is hurt. Tuukka placed both hands on his lower ab/groin area...hence why I thought it was his groin. If it was his knee wouldn't he be grabbing his knee? I think this might be the first thing I got right all season long!!
The icing or non-icing call... Was it bullshit? Yes. There was neither an icing signal or a non-icing signal, but who cares. You are taught at a very young age to "play 'til the whistle". Both Lucic and Seguin were right there and just stopped. Just an unfortunate play that ended up leading to the game winning goal. The B's can't use that as an excuse though, they had control of most of the game and had plenty of opportunities to finish them off.
Yeah yeah yeah, cousins, your lowly Isles beat the B's. Enjoy hockey in April...oh wait...enjoy another lottery pick.
Onto the Rangers............
I don't hate the Rangers as much as other people do. For one, they aren't in our division. I know people like to play the New York versus Boston card. It's a nice original 6 rivalry. Don't get me wrong, I don't like the Rangers, but I don't hate them as much as I hate the Jets or Yankees. For me, my hockey hatred is geared towards the Canadiens, Canucks, Flyers, Maple Leafs.
I give the Rangers front office credit. Earlier in the decade they tried building a team around individual stats and sexy names. It's like they were putting together a fantasy team with the likes of Jagr and Kovalev. Those guys were great, but the chemistry just didn't seem to be there. They've changed their approach and it all starts with their captain, Callahan. I was talking with a coworker and I agree, I would love Callahan to be a Bruin. He's the definition of a Bruin, hard working and tough. And that's what this Rangers team is.
Anyways, you take out the first few minutes (and the Rangers first two goals) and the game is ours. Why can't this team put together a full 60 minutes??? They aren't good enough right now to take even ONE shift off. After a couple bouts, the B's finally started playing much better. Big props to Lane MacDermaid who stood up for himself in his first NHL game. Rupp isn't like fighting Sergei Samsonov either, he's a very tough dude.
Even though the first goal was all Chara's fault, I still thought Thomas should've made the save. The second goal was a bit weak as well (yes I know it deflected off our own player), but I feel like last year Thomas figured out a way to keep the puck out of the net. Maybe he's tired, maybe he's old, either way he's our goalie the rest of the way and NEEDS to step it up. Just like last year, we go as far as Timmy will take us.
Claude finally got his secondary scoring from Jordan Caron and Pepe Le Pouliot. These weren't pretty goals, just making the other team pay for their mistakes which is what both teams did all night. Hopefully that third line can get rolling a little bit.
Although it's lame that Thomas used it as an excuse, I've always wondered why the "Greatest Arena on Earth" was called that and yet it has some of the WORST lighting on Earth. It's painful watching all the shadows on the ice. Come on!! How hard is it to put some lights up in there??
Next Up: The B's need to snap their 2-game losing streak against the Maple Leafs tonight. It'll be the Leafs first home game under their new coach, so you have to assume they'll come out flying. Hopefully the B's can match it or I'm throwing my computer out the window...
Friday, March 2, 2012
Golden Points: Boston vs New Jersey
Bruins 4 - Devils 3 OT
Imagine how good the Bruins would be if they played a full 60 minutes the way they played the first 20 of this game! If it wasn't for one of the greatest goaltenders to ever hold a waffle and a paddle, the Bruins would've been up 4 or 5 to zip at the end of one. The first, third and overtime period of the game was well played by the B's. Unfortunately, in the second period, they did not come out to play and the Devils took advantage of that. We need a full 60 minutes!
Julien may have struck gold with the new line of Lucic - Krejci - Seguin. Hot and cold Krejci blew up tonight with a hat trick (the third being the game winner in OT) and Seguin snapped a 10 game scoring drought with one of his own in the 1st. The crazy thing is that both Krejci and Seguin should both have another goal each, but Brodeur made two RIDICULOUS saves on both of them. If you haven't seen them, go to NHL.com and watch them. Unbelievable. I hate the Devils, but you gotta respect Brodeur.
After the B's go up 2 - 0 in the first, the Devils score 3 unanswered goals to take a 3-2 lead. The first goal was Joe Corvo's fault, big surprise there. He blindly threw the puck to the middle of the ice where it was intercepted by Kovalchuk. Seidenberg finds himself in a 2 v 1 situation with Parise and Kovalchuk. I don't care who's on defense, I don't like those odds. Parise buries it (another American I would LOVE the Bruins to target in the offseason). The second goal was a bit unlucky. Seidenberg stepped in front of the shot and turned his skate to block the puck...only to have him accidentally kick the puck to a wide open Patrick Elias who had a wide open net to shoot at. The third goal by Clarkson was on Thomas. Somehow Clarkson snuck a wrap around through Thomas. That's one Timmy would like back.
I was initially worried when I first saw Zanon hit the ice. Not because of his skills, but simply because he was wearing number 6. I had these horrible flashbacks of Wideman fumbling to keep the puck in the zone, whiffing on shots and passes. Let go of the past man!! I was really impressed with Zanon's game. He blocked a bunch of shots, but more importantly adds some more toughness to the defense with a team high 3 hits. I was much more comfortable with his game than Corov's. I'm sorry, Joe, but I think you're going to be the odd man out when Boychuk returns. Actually, I'm not sorry...you've stunk this season.
The power play still needs work. They went 0-fer again, 0 for 3. Two of those opportunities came in the third period with the game tied 3-3. Even though we got the win in OT, it'd be nice to see the power play have a killer instinct. With the game on the line, the boys can step up and put one in the net. I just don't have that confidence. My health can't afford for this team to be as wretched on the power play as they were during last season's playoffs.
It was a good win altogether. Man, that'll be one hell of a first round if we draw them!
Next up: Rolston gets to face his old team as the B's take on the Islanders at the Gahden. Andrew Ference was injured during the game and didn't return to the ice and he also did not skate at practice, so Mike Mottau could also see the ice in a game against his former team.
Imagine how good the Bruins would be if they played a full 60 minutes the way they played the first 20 of this game! If it wasn't for one of the greatest goaltenders to ever hold a waffle and a paddle, the Bruins would've been up 4 or 5 to zip at the end of one. The first, third and overtime period of the game was well played by the B's. Unfortunately, in the second period, they did not come out to play and the Devils took advantage of that. We need a full 60 minutes!
Julien may have struck gold with the new line of Lucic - Krejci - Seguin. Hot and cold Krejci blew up tonight with a hat trick (the third being the game winner in OT) and Seguin snapped a 10 game scoring drought with one of his own in the 1st. The crazy thing is that both Krejci and Seguin should both have another goal each, but Brodeur made two RIDICULOUS saves on both of them. If you haven't seen them, go to NHL.com and watch them. Unbelievable. I hate the Devils, but you gotta respect Brodeur.
After the B's go up 2 - 0 in the first, the Devils score 3 unanswered goals to take a 3-2 lead. The first goal was Joe Corvo's fault, big surprise there. He blindly threw the puck to the middle of the ice where it was intercepted by Kovalchuk. Seidenberg finds himself in a 2 v 1 situation with Parise and Kovalchuk. I don't care who's on defense, I don't like those odds. Parise buries it (another American I would LOVE the Bruins to target in the offseason). The second goal was a bit unlucky. Seidenberg stepped in front of the shot and turned his skate to block the puck...only to have him accidentally kick the puck to a wide open Patrick Elias who had a wide open net to shoot at. The third goal by Clarkson was on Thomas. Somehow Clarkson snuck a wrap around through Thomas. That's one Timmy would like back.
I was initially worried when I first saw Zanon hit the ice. Not because of his skills, but simply because he was wearing number 6. I had these horrible flashbacks of Wideman fumbling to keep the puck in the zone, whiffing on shots and passes. Let go of the past man!! I was really impressed with Zanon's game. He blocked a bunch of shots, but more importantly adds some more toughness to the defense with a team high 3 hits. I was much more comfortable with his game than Corov's. I'm sorry, Joe, but I think you're going to be the odd man out when Boychuk returns. Actually, I'm not sorry...you've stunk this season.
The power play still needs work. They went 0-fer again, 0 for 3. Two of those opportunities came in the third period with the game tied 3-3. Even though we got the win in OT, it'd be nice to see the power play have a killer instinct. With the game on the line, the boys can step up and put one in the net. I just don't have that confidence. My health can't afford for this team to be as wretched on the power play as they were during last season's playoffs.
It was a good win altogether. Man, that'll be one hell of a first round if we draw them!
Next up: Rolston gets to face his old team as the B's take on the Islanders at the Gahden. Andrew Ference was injured during the game and didn't return to the ice and he also did not skate at practice, so Mike Mottau could also see the ice in a game against his former team.
Thursday, March 1, 2012
Dustin Brown to the B's?
I thought that headline would grab your attention.
Is he coming to the B's? No. The trade deadline is over, so there's no way we could get him this year although it is reported that we tried. This is just me playing GM.
There's a report that the King's want to strip Brown of his captaincy and give it to Mike Richards (former captain of the Flyers). I can just envision how that conversation is going to go in the offseason...and I'm sure that won't piss Brown off....not one bit....
If this is really the case, it makes the most sense to trade Brown instead of relinquishing him of his captaincy, which just seems mean. Has that ever been done?
If he's made available, I would love the Bruins to make a play for the American this offseason. He's signed through 2014 with only a $3.175m cap hit, so the B's can easily fit him in under the cap. He's incredibly durable, playing close to 80 games a season during his 7 years. He also has scored more than 20 goals the past 4 seasons and appears to be on the verge of continuing that streak this year.
What would it cost to get him? Good question. It'd put out feelers for Krejci and Thomas this offseason to see who's interested. The Kings aren't lacking for either centermen (Richards and Kopitar) or goalies (Quick and Bernier). In fact, they also have two starting caliber goalies on their team. They did just trade Jack Johnson to the Blue Jackets, so they could be looking for a defenseman. Sending them Boychuk wouldn't be enough. Do we make Hamilton available? I'm sure they would at least listen, but our prospect pipeline is already thin, so I'd prefer not to give up Hamilton as some believe he'll be with the big boys next season.
For this to happen it seems like a third team would need to get involved unless the brass are making players available that I wouldn't consider available. Maybe a team interested in Thomas could send a player/picks to the Kings and the Kings could send Brown our way. Or maybe a team interesting Bernier would also be interested in Krejci and we get a deal done that way. In those scenarios I'm sure the B's would also have to include picks as well.
Why would I get rid of Krejci? He's underachieving and frustrating. He does have enormous potential, shows flashes of brilliance and his cap hit is very friendly, so he could be moved and I'm sure teams would be interested. I would then slide Seguin up and over to the first line center (his natural position), resign Horton (as long as he's healthy) and then you figure out who Brown works better with: Lucic and Seguin or Marchand and Bergie...that's where he goes and Horton goes on the other line.
Pretty simple right? Anyone got Chiarelli's number? Realistic? Eh probably not, but it's fun to throw out ideas.
Is he coming to the B's? No. The trade deadline is over, so there's no way we could get him this year although it is reported that we tried. This is just me playing GM.
There's a report that the King's want to strip Brown of his captaincy and give it to Mike Richards (former captain of the Flyers). I can just envision how that conversation is going to go in the offseason...and I'm sure that won't piss Brown off....not one bit....
If this is really the case, it makes the most sense to trade Brown instead of relinquishing him of his captaincy, which just seems mean. Has that ever been done?
If he's made available, I would love the Bruins to make a play for the American this offseason. He's signed through 2014 with only a $3.175m cap hit, so the B's can easily fit him in under the cap. He's incredibly durable, playing close to 80 games a season during his 7 years. He also has scored more than 20 goals the past 4 seasons and appears to be on the verge of continuing that streak this year.
What would it cost to get him? Good question. It'd put out feelers for Krejci and Thomas this offseason to see who's interested. The Kings aren't lacking for either centermen (Richards and Kopitar) or goalies (Quick and Bernier). In fact, they also have two starting caliber goalies on their team. They did just trade Jack Johnson to the Blue Jackets, so they could be looking for a defenseman. Sending them Boychuk wouldn't be enough. Do we make Hamilton available? I'm sure they would at least listen, but our prospect pipeline is already thin, so I'd prefer not to give up Hamilton as some believe he'll be with the big boys next season.
For this to happen it seems like a third team would need to get involved unless the brass are making players available that I wouldn't consider available. Maybe a team interested in Thomas could send a player/picks to the Kings and the Kings could send Brown our way. Or maybe a team interesting Bernier would also be interested in Krejci and we get a deal done that way. In those scenarios I'm sure the B's would also have to include picks as well.
Why would I get rid of Krejci? He's underachieving and frustrating. He does have enormous potential, shows flashes of brilliance and his cap hit is very friendly, so he could be moved and I'm sure teams would be interested. I would then slide Seguin up and over to the first line center (his natural position), resign Horton (as long as he's healthy) and then you figure out who Brown works better with: Lucic and Seguin or Marchand and Bergie...that's where he goes and Horton goes on the other line.
Pretty simple right? Anyone got Chiarelli's number? Realistic? Eh probably not, but it's fun to throw out ideas.
Wednesday, February 29, 2012
Golden Points: Home and Home Series vs Ottawa
Saturday's game in Ottawa: Bruins 5 - Senators 3
Tuesday's game in Boston: Bruins 0 - Senators 1
I'll start with the first game...
I was relatively pleased with this game. We saw three goals total from the second line, the power play got a goal from struggling Krejci, Thomas made some great saves, and we saw Camper get his first NHL goal on a gritty play. The B's played a relatively good game for 55 minutes.
Then they decided to wreck havoc on my personal health and make things interesting late in the game. One of my favorite non-Bruins players, Daniel Alfredsson (and yes that's 86.4% because he's Swedish), showed why he is still one of the better players and one of the most underrated players in the league by scoring two goals within 2 minutes of each other and with only about 3 minutes left to go in the game. That made it a one goal game (Bergie's second goal was an empty netter, which he was pissed about because he missed a pass to Seguin and it happened to go in). Both their goals came on nearly identical plays: a quick entry into the zone, a near cross ice feed to Alfredsson for a one timer past Thomas who couldn't slide over in time. Shame on the Sens for scoring on us once, but shame on the B's for letting them do it twice!! THE SAME WAY!!!
During the game, there were two pretty significant collisions. The first one, Chris Neil just steam rolled Boychuk as he was rushing out of the defensive zone. It's painful for me to say, since Boychuk now is out with a mild concussion, but that hit was a legit hockey hit. Boychuk was caught with his head down and Neil just came right through his chest. I think the concussion was just a result from whiplash.
The second one, Kyle Turris came up high on Corvo and appeared to have targeted the head. Now Brendan Shanahan deemed this hit a legal hockey play. I strongly disagree and thought their should've been a 1 game suspension or at least a fine for Turris. Luckily Corvo was okay. If he was injured would that have changed it? Maybe. I think an injury should only lengthen the suspension or increase the fine, not determine if it's a legal hit or not. Corvo vowed revenge the next game...did he get it? STAY TUNED!!!!
Lastly, Chara decided to step up to the plate and defend his linemate Boychuk and engaged in some fisticuffs with Neil. Neil is one of the better fighters in the league and if my memory serves me correct has accepted Chara's challenge multiple times now, so kudos to Neil. Chara is a beast of a human being and normally leaves foes bloody. He threw some heavy punches and landed a few, but recently when he fights, he's having trouble staying on his feet. Luckily Neil respects the unwritten rules of fighting and didn't tag Chara while he was on the ground.
Onto the second game...
ZZZZZZZZzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz!!! Period one.
ZZZZZZZZZZzzzzzzzzzzzzzz!!! Period two.
ZZZZZZ..what what... there's a hockey game! Oh we should probably play eh! Let's give it a go guys!!
This was a disappointing game to say the least. The trade deadline is over, all the players can relax. This is the team we're making a run with (as it stands right now...gulp!!). Right now starts the final run. Yes we're 6 weeks out, but the B's NEED to start putting some wins together. A physical, emotional game is the type of game they thrive on and this had all the makings of one considering what had happened last game. The Sens are sniffing at your heals for the division lead, even though you have 4 games in hand, you win this game you're giving yourself even more breathing room as well as sending a message to them that you're the top dog in the Northeast.
...I guess they didn't get that memo...maybe it went to their junk box accidentally...
The only player that showed up was Thomas. Only letting up one goal in this NHL is pretty damn good. That gave the B's ample opportunity to tie the game/win the game. The Sens and B's were even 5v5 but the game was won on special teams. The Sens went 1 for 3 on the power play while the B's went a 2011-esque 0 for 4. With 2 minutes left in the game, they had a power play. PERFECT time, you get that extra attacker on the ice and it's 6 on 4!! The pieces of steaming poo couldn't even set up in the offensive zone! They looked like parking cones out there standing still. No one wanted to win that game....except the 17,000 fans in attendance, but who cares about them.
Brian Rolston and Mike Mottau played their first games as B's. I'm not going to rush to judge them. They've had one practice with their new team, so I'll give them a few games to get acclimated then the judging shall commence. Basically I wasn't impressed this first game, but like I said, they are spared. It'll be interesting if Mottau still gets to the play with Greg Zanon joining the team. I think it would send a message to the team if Julien sits Corvo in favor of Mottau. Although I don't necessarily think that's an improvement, it would send a message to Corvo and the rest of the team that it's time to step it the *$@% up.
And did Corvo make due on his request to fight Turris? No of course not. This guy is a baby and an anti-Bruin. I was looking forward to seeing if Corvo had some stones. I guess I have my answer.
AHHHHHHHHH!!!! This team KILLS ME. I wish there was a clone of me who wasn't a hockey fan and we could see how much longer he lives than I do.
Next up: New Jersey Devils who lie 7th in the East and would be our 1st Round opponent if the season ended right now. Would love to see the B's put yesterday behind them...far far FAR behind them... and come out strong. The fans deserve a little more effort from this team.
Tuesday's game in Boston: Bruins 0 - Senators 1
I'll start with the first game...
I was relatively pleased with this game. We saw three goals total from the second line, the power play got a goal from struggling Krejci, Thomas made some great saves, and we saw Camper get his first NHL goal on a gritty play. The B's played a relatively good game for 55 minutes.
Then they decided to wreck havoc on my personal health and make things interesting late in the game. One of my favorite non-Bruins players, Daniel Alfredsson (and yes that's 86.4% because he's Swedish), showed why he is still one of the better players and one of the most underrated players in the league by scoring two goals within 2 minutes of each other and with only about 3 minutes left to go in the game. That made it a one goal game (Bergie's second goal was an empty netter, which he was pissed about because he missed a pass to Seguin and it happened to go in). Both their goals came on nearly identical plays: a quick entry into the zone, a near cross ice feed to Alfredsson for a one timer past Thomas who couldn't slide over in time. Shame on the Sens for scoring on us once, but shame on the B's for letting them do it twice!! THE SAME WAY!!!
During the game, there were two pretty significant collisions. The first one, Chris Neil just steam rolled Boychuk as he was rushing out of the defensive zone. It's painful for me to say, since Boychuk now is out with a mild concussion, but that hit was a legit hockey hit. Boychuk was caught with his head down and Neil just came right through his chest. I think the concussion was just a result from whiplash.
The second one, Kyle Turris came up high on Corvo and appeared to have targeted the head. Now Brendan Shanahan deemed this hit a legal hockey play. I strongly disagree and thought their should've been a 1 game suspension or at least a fine for Turris. Luckily Corvo was okay. If he was injured would that have changed it? Maybe. I think an injury should only lengthen the suspension or increase the fine, not determine if it's a legal hit or not. Corvo vowed revenge the next game...did he get it? STAY TUNED!!!!
Lastly, Chara decided to step up to the plate and defend his linemate Boychuk and engaged in some fisticuffs with Neil. Neil is one of the better fighters in the league and if my memory serves me correct has accepted Chara's challenge multiple times now, so kudos to Neil. Chara is a beast of a human being and normally leaves foes bloody. He threw some heavy punches and landed a few, but recently when he fights, he's having trouble staying on his feet. Luckily Neil respects the unwritten rules of fighting and didn't tag Chara while he was on the ground.
Onto the second game...
ZZZZZZZZzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz!!! Period one.
ZZZZZZZZZZzzzzzzzzzzzzzz!!! Period two.
ZZZZZZ..what what... there's a hockey game! Oh we should probably play eh! Let's give it a go guys!!
This was a disappointing game to say the least. The trade deadline is over, all the players can relax. This is the team we're making a run with (as it stands right now...gulp!!). Right now starts the final run. Yes we're 6 weeks out, but the B's NEED to start putting some wins together. A physical, emotional game is the type of game they thrive on and this had all the makings of one considering what had happened last game. The Sens are sniffing at your heals for the division lead, even though you have 4 games in hand, you win this game you're giving yourself even more breathing room as well as sending a message to them that you're the top dog in the Northeast.
...I guess they didn't get that memo...maybe it went to their junk box accidentally...
The only player that showed up was Thomas. Only letting up one goal in this NHL is pretty damn good. That gave the B's ample opportunity to tie the game/win the game. The Sens and B's were even 5v5 but the game was won on special teams. The Sens went 1 for 3 on the power play while the B's went a 2011-esque 0 for 4. With 2 minutes left in the game, they had a power play. PERFECT time, you get that extra attacker on the ice and it's 6 on 4!! The pieces of steaming poo couldn't even set up in the offensive zone! They looked like parking cones out there standing still. No one wanted to win that game....except the 17,000 fans in attendance, but who cares about them.
Brian Rolston and Mike Mottau played their first games as B's. I'm not going to rush to judge them. They've had one practice with their new team, so I'll give them a few games to get acclimated then the judging shall commence. Basically I wasn't impressed this first game, but like I said, they are spared. It'll be interesting if Mottau still gets to the play with Greg Zanon joining the team. I think it would send a message to the team if Julien sits Corvo in favor of Mottau. Although I don't necessarily think that's an improvement, it would send a message to Corvo and the rest of the team that it's time to step it the *$@% up.
And did Corvo make due on his request to fight Turris? No of course not. This guy is a baby and an anti-Bruin. I was looking forward to seeing if Corvo had some stones. I guess I have my answer.
AHHHHHHHHH!!!! This team KILLS ME. I wish there was a clone of me who wasn't a hockey fan and we could see how much longer he lives than I do.
Next up: New Jersey Devils who lie 7th in the East and would be our 1st Round opponent if the season ended right now. Would love to see the B's put yesterday behind them...far far FAR behind them... and come out strong. The fans deserve a little more effort from this team.
Monday, February 27, 2012
Bruins Trade for Brian Rolston, Mike Mottau, and Greg Zanon
Every year I get all excited for the NHL trade deadline. What big names are going to change cities?? What's Columbus going to get for Nash?? Who's going to make that deal that puts them over the top?!
This year was as disappointing as the third Xmen. It was THE LAMEST and most uneventful trade deadline I can remember. I actually did work at work today because I didn't have enough articles to read. Damn you selfish GM's. THINK ABOUT ME!!
Onto the B's...
How do I feel about these moves? Just ehh. Definitely don't love them like I did last year. I don't hate them because hate is a strong word. I'm just ehh. It's hard to blame Chiarelli though. If you looked at his face at the press conference it looked like he'd been working the phones 24 hours a day for the past week...which he probably was. A combination of the asking price being outrageous for some players, not many teams were sellers, and the players the B's were rumored to want (Hemsky, Whitney) weren't on the table. I wonder if being the defending Cup champs makes other GM's more hesitant to get a deal done with you. If I was Chiarelli and another GM mentioned either Rask, Seguin or Hamilton I would've hung up immediately. That's the very near future right there. You don't touch those. Cue MC Hammer please.
I'd like to say welcome back Brian Rolston. As a welcome home present, the B's have resigned Swedish Sensation PJ Axelsson so you two will once again dominate the penalty kill. Oh wait, that was 10+ flippin' years ago. Rolston was WAIVED by the New York Islanders and Chiarelli didn't claim him because he knew he'd still be available late in the day...way to get me real enthused. Was he your Plan...G? . Sorry if I'm not waiting on the tarmac for his return, and maybe he still has a little left in the tank, but I'm just not jumping for joy that our replacement plan for a concussed Horton and one-legged Peverley is a 39 year old underachiever. I remember him having one hell of a shot. If that's still there, maybe I can get behind this deal. Park his aging ass on the point or face off circle of the power point and let him rip shots. Hey, at least he threw a punch at Burrows... that has to count for something.
In the same trade for Rolston, the B's also acquired Mike Mottau from the Islanders. This will be a homecoming for Mottau as he's a fellow Massachusettian... or a Massachusettite... or a Massachusettonian. Anyways the dude (not to be mistaken by the Dude) grew up in this area. He's saying the right things so far, "I always said I'd take a puck in the teeth for the Bruins. Now I have a chance to do that." That's not a big sacrifice considering I'm pretty sure the B's probably have baller dental coverage. Honestly though, I don't know much about him. He stats are.. eh. But he claims he can make a "good outlet pass". Should I map the parade route out now or on my lunch break?
We sent the Isles two low level prospects, Yannick Riendeau and Marc Cantin. Who? Yeah don't worry about it.
I guess what would be considered our best/most significant deal of the day would be trading Steven Kampfer for Greg Zanon from the Minnesota Wild. I'm not going to lose any sleep tonight knowing we traded Kampfer. He just didn't fit in and with Dougie Hamilton in the pipeline, Kampfer was expendable. What are we getting in Zanon? A gritty defender who blocks shots... a lot of shots. He'll win me over if he pulls the Dikembe Mutombo finger waving "not in my house" gesture for every blocked shot.
With Boychuk being diagnosed with a mild concussion, we'll probably see Zanon in the line up tomorrow. But if all our defenseman are healthy, I'm not sure how much of Zanon and Mottau we're going to see. If Corvo keeps doing his best Kaberle impersonation, I would hope Julien would give one of those other guys a shot.
Ladies and gentlemen.... this is your team. We need them healthy and playing with confidence. We've seen what this team can do when it's hot. It's one of the best teams in the league. If they can't get their act together, we're not repeating.
Anyone have Recchi's number???
This year was as disappointing as the third Xmen. It was THE LAMEST and most uneventful trade deadline I can remember. I actually did work at work today because I didn't have enough articles to read. Damn you selfish GM's. THINK ABOUT ME!!
Onto the B's...
How do I feel about these moves? Just ehh. Definitely don't love them like I did last year. I don't hate them because hate is a strong word. I'm just ehh. It's hard to blame Chiarelli though. If you looked at his face at the press conference it looked like he'd been working the phones 24 hours a day for the past week...which he probably was. A combination of the asking price being outrageous for some players, not many teams were sellers, and the players the B's were rumored to want (Hemsky, Whitney) weren't on the table. I wonder if being the defending Cup champs makes other GM's more hesitant to get a deal done with you. If I was Chiarelli and another GM mentioned either Rask, Seguin or Hamilton I would've hung up immediately. That's the very near future right there. You don't touch those. Cue MC Hammer please.
I'd like to say welcome back Brian Rolston. As a welcome home present, the B's have resigned Swedish Sensation PJ Axelsson so you two will once again dominate the penalty kill. Oh wait, that was 10+ flippin' years ago. Rolston was WAIVED by the New York Islanders and Chiarelli didn't claim him because he knew he'd still be available late in the day...way to get me real enthused. Was he your Plan...G? . Sorry if I'm not waiting on the tarmac for his return, and maybe he still has a little left in the tank, but I'm just not jumping for joy that our replacement plan for a concussed Horton and one-legged Peverley is a 39 year old underachiever. I remember him having one hell of a shot. If that's still there, maybe I can get behind this deal. Park his aging ass on the point or face off circle of the power point and let him rip shots. Hey, at least he threw a punch at Burrows... that has to count for something.
In the same trade for Rolston, the B's also acquired Mike Mottau from the Islanders. This will be a homecoming for Mottau as he's a fellow Massachusettian... or a Massachusettite... or a Massachusettonian. Anyways the dude (not to be mistaken by the Dude) grew up in this area. He's saying the right things so far, "I always said I'd take a puck in the teeth for the Bruins. Now I have a chance to do that." That's not a big sacrifice considering I'm pretty sure the B's probably have baller dental coverage. Honestly though, I don't know much about him. He stats are.. eh. But he claims he can make a "good outlet pass". Should I map the parade route out now or on my lunch break?
We sent the Isles two low level prospects, Yannick Riendeau and Marc Cantin. Who? Yeah don't worry about it.
I guess what would be considered our best/most significant deal of the day would be trading Steven Kampfer for Greg Zanon from the Minnesota Wild. I'm not going to lose any sleep tonight knowing we traded Kampfer. He just didn't fit in and with Dougie Hamilton in the pipeline, Kampfer was expendable. What are we getting in Zanon? A gritty defender who blocks shots... a lot of shots. He'll win me over if he pulls the Dikembe Mutombo finger waving "not in my house" gesture for every blocked shot.
With Boychuk being diagnosed with a mild concussion, we'll probably see Zanon in the line up tomorrow. But if all our defenseman are healthy, I'm not sure how much of Zanon and Mottau we're going to see. If Corvo keeps doing his best Kaberle impersonation, I would hope Julien would give one of those other guys a shot.
Ladies and gentlemen.... this is your team. We need them healthy and playing with confidence. We've seen what this team can do when it's hot. It's one of the best teams in the league. If they can't get their act together, we're not repeating.
Anyone have Recchi's number???
Trade Deadline is Here!!!
One of the more entertaining and interesting days in sports for me is today. I have a very hard time getting any work done as I'm following all the rumors and deals that get done. The pre-deadline activity has been relatively quiet, so it'll be interesting to see what happens today.
I expect the B's to make at a minimum two moves. They need a forward that can contribute right away and they could be adding a defenseman. That d-man could either take Corvo's spot in the rotation or just provide some depth incase there's an injury.
I will have some golden points up either today or tomorrow for the Sabres and Sens game, but right now my focus is on the trade deadline...
Let the bidding begin!!!!!!!!
I expect the B's to make at a minimum two moves. They need a forward that can contribute right away and they could be adding a defenseman. That d-man could either take Corvo's spot in the rotation or just provide some depth incase there's an injury.
I will have some golden points up either today or tomorrow for the Sabres and Sens game, but right now my focus is on the trade deadline...
Let the bidding begin!!!!!!!!
Thursday, February 23, 2012
Golden Points: St. Louis Blues
Bruins 4 - Blues 2
While Detroit has been making all the headlines with their home win streak, St. Louis had quietly been compiling their own very impressive home record streak. They hadn't lost in regulation at home since December 3rd. That's pretty damn impressive. They have one SO loss and one OT loss in that time frame. Still impressive. All impressive streaks must come to an end, I'm very happy with how the struggling B's played last night to end that streak. This was one of the more entertaining games of the season and had a nice playoff feel to the game. The refs swallowed their whistles for the most part and let the big boys play.
I don't agree with some other sites analysis that it wasn't a full 60 minute effort. I think you have to give the Blues some credit. They are a very good team (4th in the West), play extremely well at home, and took it to the B's at times in the game. For the most part the B's held their ground defensively especially in the 2nd and 3rd period where they shut the Blues down.
The B's came out flying! The speed in which they played was noticeably more uptempo then usual, which seemed to have been the point of emphasis during the past few practices. Unlike the past few games, they got rewarded for their good efforts with two quick goals...which was quickly erased by two Blues goals...shit.
It was nice to see the top two lines be the focus of the offensive production. Lucic is continuing to have a great stretch of games, playing solid north-south hockey. He's streaky, but I'm hoping this streak doesn't end until the offseason. He picked up a tip goal (near the front of the net which is where I like to see him) and then had a nice asset on Kelly's late first period goal.
Hands down the most impressive player last night was David Krejci. Where the hell did he come from? I was curious to see how he would respond to playing on the wing. I don't know if I've ever seen him play an entire game with that much energy. Whatever he ate for breakfast, I want it and I want it now! Although he didn't show up in the box score summary, he was a crucial player last night. He even laid a huge hit on one of the Blues defenseman down low. Yes you read that correctly... Krejci INITIATED contact and WON.
The second line got back into rhythm too. Marchand showed why I call him the Gnat on his first goal, never giving up and pestering the other team. Great forechecking led to a steal and then he just ripped a shot past Elliot. On his second goal he showed why he'll never be a career fourth liner like everyone thought when he broke into the league (including me...and you know my track record with predictions). Collecting a long pass from Seguin, Marchy gave Paille a tutorial on how to score on the breakaway, faking the shot and tucking the puck five hole, sealing the game for the B's.
For one of the rare times this season I thought the fourth line was a HUGE liability this game (combined -5...yikes). A lot of their shifts on the ice resulted in the Blues gaining momentum and two of their shifts led to the Blues goals...not good. Thornton was fighting flu-like symptoms, so I'll give them this one.
For the Blues, a team we only get to watch once a year, I was really impressed with defenseman Kris Russell and forward Chris Stewart. Russell is that stereotypical "puck-moving defenseman" with GREAT skating ability. More than once he collected the puck, moved into their offensive zone and created some opportunities. Stewart also has impressive skating ability and stick skills. Those guys are two names I hadn't heard of before that impressed me. Obviously Arnott and Backes are some of the elite players in the league. Man would I love to have Backes on the B's!!! He just screams black and gold! The guy is tougher than nails, never stops working and is one of the more skilled players in the league.
And we have to end of a positive note. The Dude! He has to quickly becoming one of the tougher fighters in the league. He'll fight anyone and when he does there isn't much defense. He just throws hay makers like woah. It was a very entertaining bout with Crombeen with McQuaid getting some shots in early and Crombeen getting shots in later. As always the tie goes to the Dude. Anyone who rocks a mullet gets extra points.
Next up: Buffalo Sabres Friday night. I'm looking forward to that game as the hatred between the two teams seems to grow greater with every game they play.
While Detroit has been making all the headlines with their home win streak, St. Louis had quietly been compiling their own very impressive home record streak. They hadn't lost in regulation at home since December 3rd. That's pretty damn impressive. They have one SO loss and one OT loss in that time frame. Still impressive. All impressive streaks must come to an end, I'm very happy with how the struggling B's played last night to end that streak. This was one of the more entertaining games of the season and had a nice playoff feel to the game. The refs swallowed their whistles for the most part and let the big boys play.
I don't agree with some other sites analysis that it wasn't a full 60 minute effort. I think you have to give the Blues some credit. They are a very good team (4th in the West), play extremely well at home, and took it to the B's at times in the game. For the most part the B's held their ground defensively especially in the 2nd and 3rd period where they shut the Blues down.
The B's came out flying! The speed in which they played was noticeably more uptempo then usual, which seemed to have been the point of emphasis during the past few practices. Unlike the past few games, they got rewarded for their good efforts with two quick goals...which was quickly erased by two Blues goals...shit.
It was nice to see the top two lines be the focus of the offensive production. Lucic is continuing to have a great stretch of games, playing solid north-south hockey. He's streaky, but I'm hoping this streak doesn't end until the offseason. He picked up a tip goal (near the front of the net which is where I like to see him) and then had a nice asset on Kelly's late first period goal.
Hands down the most impressive player last night was David Krejci. Where the hell did he come from? I was curious to see how he would respond to playing on the wing. I don't know if I've ever seen him play an entire game with that much energy. Whatever he ate for breakfast, I want it and I want it now! Although he didn't show up in the box score summary, he was a crucial player last night. He even laid a huge hit on one of the Blues defenseman down low. Yes you read that correctly... Krejci INITIATED contact and WON.
The second line got back into rhythm too. Marchand showed why I call him the Gnat on his first goal, never giving up and pestering the other team. Great forechecking led to a steal and then he just ripped a shot past Elliot. On his second goal he showed why he'll never be a career fourth liner like everyone thought when he broke into the league (including me...and you know my track record with predictions). Collecting a long pass from Seguin, Marchy gave Paille a tutorial on how to score on the breakaway, faking the shot and tucking the puck five hole, sealing the game for the B's.
For one of the rare times this season I thought the fourth line was a HUGE liability this game (combined -5...yikes). A lot of their shifts on the ice resulted in the Blues gaining momentum and two of their shifts led to the Blues goals...not good. Thornton was fighting flu-like symptoms, so I'll give them this one.
For the Blues, a team we only get to watch once a year, I was really impressed with defenseman Kris Russell and forward Chris Stewart. Russell is that stereotypical "puck-moving defenseman" with GREAT skating ability. More than once he collected the puck, moved into their offensive zone and created some opportunities. Stewart also has impressive skating ability and stick skills. Those guys are two names I hadn't heard of before that impressed me. Obviously Arnott and Backes are some of the elite players in the league. Man would I love to have Backes on the B's!!! He just screams black and gold! The guy is tougher than nails, never stops working and is one of the more skilled players in the league.
And we have to end of a positive note. The Dude! He has to quickly becoming one of the tougher fighters in the league. He'll fight anyone and when he does there isn't much defense. He just throws hay makers like woah. It was a very entertaining bout with Crombeen with McQuaid getting some shots in early and Crombeen getting shots in later. As always the tie goes to the Dude. Anyone who rocks a mullet gets extra points.
Next up: Buffalo Sabres Friday night. I'm looking forward to that game as the hatred between the two teams seems to grow greater with every game they play.
Monday, February 20, 2012
Golden Points: Minnesota Wild
Wild 2 - Bruins 0
Now I need everyone to stay calm. Let's not FREAK OUT because the B's have suddenly reverted back to old B's where their offense eluded them. I actually thought the B's played a really good game. I also thought Niklas Backstrom played out of his mind (48 saves). Nothing was getting by him yesterday.
I don't understand this and maybe someone can explain it to me. Paille finds himself on the most breakaways out of anyone. I get excited when I initially see a breakaway, but when I realize it's Paille my hopes for a goal fade. He had one clear breakaway and one half somewhat breakaway yesterday and just couldn't finish either of them.
Timmy had the start for the B's, and I didn't think he played poorly. He also made some really nice saves, even on "Timmy Special"... flopping around like a fish out of the water and somehow getting a body part on the puck. The Wilds first goal by Rau was pretty nice, he no looked the shot and sniped it inside post. Tip your hat to Rau. The second was a bit flukey. Cullen completely whiffed on the first attempted which got Seidenberg moving and Thomas moving the other way which left some open net for Cullen to shoot at once he reloaded.
As always, Shawn Thornton stepped up to the plate and did what he does best. He sacrificed himself by taking on a much bigger Matt Kassian to try and energize his teammates. They got their chances but couldn't score. I thought Lucic had another good game and should've put one in the net but got completely robbed by Backstrom. Although the results haven't been favorable, Looch has strung together a few good games in a row. We need him to keep that up.
So the struggles continue. It's hard to be disappointed in this game because I thought the B's played well. They just need to get back to basics and keep fighting. Every team goes through a stretch like this. How will this team respond? They have some solid characters in that locker room so I have faith they'll come out alright. I'm just glad it's happening now and not in April/May.
Next up: St. Louis Blues on Wednesday.
Now I need everyone to stay calm. Let's not FREAK OUT because the B's have suddenly reverted back to old B's where their offense eluded them. I actually thought the B's played a really good game. I also thought Niklas Backstrom played out of his mind (48 saves). Nothing was getting by him yesterday.
I don't understand this and maybe someone can explain it to me. Paille finds himself on the most breakaways out of anyone. I get excited when I initially see a breakaway, but when I realize it's Paille my hopes for a goal fade. He had one clear breakaway and one half somewhat breakaway yesterday and just couldn't finish either of them.
Timmy had the start for the B's, and I didn't think he played poorly. He also made some really nice saves, even on "Timmy Special"... flopping around like a fish out of the water and somehow getting a body part on the puck. The Wilds first goal by Rau was pretty nice, he no looked the shot and sniped it inside post. Tip your hat to Rau. The second was a bit flukey. Cullen completely whiffed on the first attempted which got Seidenberg moving and Thomas moving the other way which left some open net for Cullen to shoot at once he reloaded.
As always, Shawn Thornton stepped up to the plate and did what he does best. He sacrificed himself by taking on a much bigger Matt Kassian to try and energize his teammates. They got their chances but couldn't score. I thought Lucic had another good game and should've put one in the net but got completely robbed by Backstrom. Although the results haven't been favorable, Looch has strung together a few good games in a row. We need him to keep that up.
So the struggles continue. It's hard to be disappointed in this game because I thought the B's played well. They just need to get back to basics and keep fighting. Every team goes through a stretch like this. How will this team respond? They have some solid characters in that locker room so I have faith they'll come out alright. I'm just glad it's happening now and not in April/May.
Next up: St. Louis Blues on Wednesday.
Golden Points: Winnipeg Jets
Jets 4 - Bruins 2 (even though it's not New York, I still hate typing Jets...)
At the beginning of the bout I had a good feeling, the B's were skating hard, getting shots on net, and looked to be in control of the game. The first period ended 0-0 and I would've liked to see the B's get rewarded for their good play, but I was feeling good.
Although the first goal for the Jets was a really nice shot by Alex Burmistrov, I put the blame on the captain. I don't know if he lost where he was on the ice, but he gave Burmistrov waaaaay too much cushion. Burmistrov was able to skate unopposed into the face off circle and rip a shot on Rask. Chara with his redwood stick should've made it a little more difficult for him to gain that position.
Rask came up with the biggest save of the game to that point, making a split save stoning the Jets on a 2 v 1 breakaway which immediately led to Jordan Caron's goal. Caron's goal was almost identitcal to Burmistrov, I thought former Bruins Mark Stuart gave Caron way too much cushion and Caron just ripped one from around the face off dot. Instead of 2-0, it was 1-1. Alright, here we go B's... getting back in it.
Then, my worst nightmare played out in front of my eyes. Blake %$^%ing Wheeler. The guy I was more than happy to see packing his bags last year decided he wanted a little revenge and just turned it on. Hands down one of the best games I've seen him play. He scored the next goal (sneaky goal on Tuukka...thought Rask should've saved it) and assisted on the next two to Little. DAMNIT WHEELER!!
The struggles still continue for the B's. Bergeron had a prime scoring opportunity in the third but Pavelec just robbed him. That's just how the pucks been rolling these days. Get the struggles out now, shake it off, and lets get rockin' and rollin' come playoff time.
Some good news: Krejci got on the board. He wasn't a pretty goal, but he fought through the bouncing puck and roofed one over Pavelec. That was to tie the game at 2, but the B's couldn't muster anymore offense.
With Horton out indefinitely and Peverley out for over a month, the time's ticking for Chiarelli to add a forward to the mix to help this offense. I just don't have a feeling Caron and Hennessey are the answers.
At the beginning of the bout I had a good feeling, the B's were skating hard, getting shots on net, and looked to be in control of the game. The first period ended 0-0 and I would've liked to see the B's get rewarded for their good play, but I was feeling good.
Although the first goal for the Jets was a really nice shot by Alex Burmistrov, I put the blame on the captain. I don't know if he lost where he was on the ice, but he gave Burmistrov waaaaay too much cushion. Burmistrov was able to skate unopposed into the face off circle and rip a shot on Rask. Chara with his redwood stick should've made it a little more difficult for him to gain that position.
Rask came up with the biggest save of the game to that point, making a split save stoning the Jets on a 2 v 1 breakaway which immediately led to Jordan Caron's goal. Caron's goal was almost identitcal to Burmistrov, I thought former Bruins Mark Stuart gave Caron way too much cushion and Caron just ripped one from around the face off dot. Instead of 2-0, it was 1-1. Alright, here we go B's... getting back in it.
Then, my worst nightmare played out in front of my eyes. Blake %$^%ing Wheeler. The guy I was more than happy to see packing his bags last year decided he wanted a little revenge and just turned it on. Hands down one of the best games I've seen him play. He scored the next goal (sneaky goal on Tuukka...thought Rask should've saved it) and assisted on the next two to Little. DAMNIT WHEELER!!
The struggles still continue for the B's. Bergeron had a prime scoring opportunity in the third but Pavelec just robbed him. That's just how the pucks been rolling these days. Get the struggles out now, shake it off, and lets get rockin' and rollin' come playoff time.
Some good news: Krejci got on the board. He wasn't a pretty goal, but he fought through the bouncing puck and roofed one over Pavelec. That was to tie the game at 2, but the B's couldn't muster anymore offense.
With Horton out indefinitely and Peverley out for over a month, the time's ticking for Chiarelli to add a forward to the mix to help this offense. I just don't have a feeling Caron and Hennessey are the answers.
Thursday, February 16, 2012
Golden Points: Montreal Canadiens
Bruins 4 - Montreal 3 SO
I've said it many times. When these two teams meet, it doesn't matter where they are in the standings, it's going to be a hard fought game. And that it was. At least I'm right on one thing...
Overall you have to be pleased with the result. Going into Montreal's house is never easy and even more so when you have a game the night before. I was getting pretty nervous in that third period. You wonder if the B's legs would just give out. Even though it wasn't pretty at times, the B's were able to pull it off. Capped off by a sneaky shot from Seguin. You can't blame Price for not moving. The book on Seguin reads he dekes more than Charlie Conway, so a goaltender shouldn't bite on his first move...unless that first move is a snap shot in the BACK OF THE NET... BOOYEA!
Now I'm only moderately to fully biased towards the Dude, but I thought McQuaid had a monster game. During the early stages of the game, I thought the B's were lacking in the physicality department. Not the Dude. He see red he hit red. It's always a good night when the Dude gets into a fight and this one was a very entertaining one. I give the nod to McQuaid, but give White credit for sticking in there, he took some SHOTS to the dome. Even Chicken Little in between the glass for NBCSN called McQuaid "underrated". Yes... I had to rewind the game just to make sure I heard that correctly. BOOM!
I'd like to give a shout out to Hal Gill. Although you received the "Wideman"-treatment from me while you played here, you provided a perfect screen in front of your own goaltender that allowed Ference to score. The only disappointment here was that Ference didn't flip off the crowd...
The B's next two goals were some of the prettiest all year. Pepe Le Pouliot only has 9 goals, but the one against Florida and now the one he scored last night have been two of the better goals all year. That's got to feel good to scored against your old team. For Bergie's power play goal, I'm still not sure how the heck he roofed that shot. He had nearly no angle and with just a flick of the wrist sent the puck nearly 90 degrees upwards over Price. Redic
There will always been questionable calls in a game, the refs are somewhat human and will make mistakes. I don't know if it was a memo from the league or what, but the four goaltender interference was a bit much. I'd probably prefer none of those to be called. Three of them shouldn't have been called, and the one called Cole for goaltender interference is iffy. Even though Thomas was in the crease, it wouldn't have disappointed me if they let that one go too.
I'm so disappointed in the Canadien's fans. You can boo Chara every time he touches the puck, you can boo the black and gold anytime anywhere, you can boo me. But you showed how classless you guys are, which we all already knew when you booed the National Anthem. You don't stand up and cheer when someone gets hurt, no matter who it is. Chara takes a puck to the chin, is lying on the ice bleeding and you stand up and cheer!!! I would love to see the owner make a comment condemning that sort of behavior. But that's the Habs organization for you...
Off to see some old friends, Blake Wheeler and Mark Stuart, out in Winnipeg Friday night.
I've said it many times. When these two teams meet, it doesn't matter where they are in the standings, it's going to be a hard fought game. And that it was. At least I'm right on one thing...
Overall you have to be pleased with the result. Going into Montreal's house is never easy and even more so when you have a game the night before. I was getting pretty nervous in that third period. You wonder if the B's legs would just give out. Even though it wasn't pretty at times, the B's were able to pull it off. Capped off by a sneaky shot from Seguin. You can't blame Price for not moving. The book on Seguin reads he dekes more than Charlie Conway, so a goaltender shouldn't bite on his first move...unless that first move is a snap shot in the BACK OF THE NET... BOOYEA!
Now I'm only moderately to fully biased towards the Dude, but I thought McQuaid had a monster game. During the early stages of the game, I thought the B's were lacking in the physicality department. Not the Dude. He see red he hit red. It's always a good night when the Dude gets into a fight and this one was a very entertaining one. I give the nod to McQuaid, but give White credit for sticking in there, he took some SHOTS to the dome. Even Chicken Little in between the glass for NBCSN called McQuaid "underrated". Yes... I had to rewind the game just to make sure I heard that correctly. BOOM!
I'd like to give a shout out to Hal Gill. Although you received the "Wideman"-treatment from me while you played here, you provided a perfect screen in front of your own goaltender that allowed Ference to score. The only disappointment here was that Ference didn't flip off the crowd...
The B's next two goals were some of the prettiest all year. Pepe Le Pouliot only has 9 goals, but the one against Florida and now the one he scored last night have been two of the better goals all year. That's got to feel good to scored against your old team. For Bergie's power play goal, I'm still not sure how the heck he roofed that shot. He had nearly no angle and with just a flick of the wrist sent the puck nearly 90 degrees upwards over Price. Redic
There will always been questionable calls in a game, the refs are somewhat human and will make mistakes. I don't know if it was a memo from the league or what, but the four goaltender interference was a bit much. I'd probably prefer none of those to be called. Three of them shouldn't have been called, and the one called Cole for goaltender interference is iffy. Even though Thomas was in the crease, it wouldn't have disappointed me if they let that one go too.
I'm so disappointed in the Canadien's fans. You can boo Chara every time he touches the puck, you can boo the black and gold anytime anywhere, you can boo me. But you showed how classless you guys are, which we all already knew when you booed the National Anthem. You don't stand up and cheer when someone gets hurt, no matter who it is. Chara takes a puck to the chin, is lying on the ice bleeding and you stand up and cheer!!! I would love to see the owner make a comment condemning that sort of behavior. But that's the Habs organization for you...
Off to see some old friends, Blake Wheeler and Mark Stuart, out in Winnipeg Friday night.
Wednesday, February 15, 2012
Golden Points: NY Rangers
Rangers 3 - Boston 0
I'm a pretty lucky guy. My girlfriend loves Boston sports, actually knows most or all of the rules of the major four sports, and is even a pretty big B's fan. She even gave away her pink Ellsbury t-shirt when I told her what a "pink hat" was...and my future kids be damned if I ever call her that.
Although I was briefly tempted, suggesting we spend Valentine's Day on the couch with me completely ignoring her and staring intensely at the tube would NOT have been the best decision I've made. The B's decided to do me a favor though, and lay a stinker the night I didn't watch. I could only get a little angry at the result, instead of being enraged for the entire 2.5 hours of the game.
It's hard to get a good sense of the game through a box score. The B's outshot the Ranger's 42-20, they must've DOMINATED! Well, not from what I read. "Shots on goal" is a bit of a weak stat in my opinion. How many QUALITY scoring opportunities did the B's get? How many of those 42 shots did Lundqvist have a clean view off? Look at the giveaways and takeaways, the B's gave the puck away 9 times and the Rangers took it away 8 versus 1 and 4.
From what I've read, the team played pretty poorly and their "compete level" was not where it should've been. The Bruins succeed when they work hard and outwork their opponent. When that happens, the offense tags along too. But it seems like this team just flat out got outworked. There's still plenty of time, but this team needs to snap out of it.
Tonight we got the Canadiens in Montreal. That's going to be a circus.
I'm a pretty lucky guy. My girlfriend loves Boston sports, actually knows most or all of the rules of the major four sports, and is even a pretty big B's fan. She even gave away her pink Ellsbury t-shirt when I told her what a "pink hat" was...and my future kids be damned if I ever call her that.
Although I was briefly tempted, suggesting we spend Valentine's Day on the couch with me completely ignoring her and staring intensely at the tube would NOT have been the best decision I've made. The B's decided to do me a favor though, and lay a stinker the night I didn't watch. I could only get a little angry at the result, instead of being enraged for the entire 2.5 hours of the game.
It's hard to get a good sense of the game through a box score. The B's outshot the Ranger's 42-20, they must've DOMINATED! Well, not from what I read. "Shots on goal" is a bit of a weak stat in my opinion. How many QUALITY scoring opportunities did the B's get? How many of those 42 shots did Lundqvist have a clean view off? Look at the giveaways and takeaways, the B's gave the puck away 9 times and the Rangers took it away 8 versus 1 and 4.
From what I've read, the team played pretty poorly and their "compete level" was not where it should've been. The Bruins succeed when they work hard and outwork their opponent. When that happens, the offense tags along too. But it seems like this team just flat out got outworked. There's still plenty of time, but this team needs to snap out of it.
Tonight we got the Canadiens in Montreal. That's going to be a circus.
Tuesday, February 14, 2012
Johnny Boychuk signs 3 year extension worth $10.08 mil
Well, my early season prediction of Johnny Boychuk being traded officially been squashed. That's okay, I've been wrong with almost all my predictions, but we still have fun right!!! Maybe I'll get a "thanks for participating" award...
If the B's had signed Boychuk to this deal over the offseason I would've been fairly pissed. His play dropped last season and I was wondering if there was going to be a spot for him on this team in the future. Oh silly me. He has played a solid game this entire year, spending most of his time next to the Slovakian giant. I agree with some of the other writers that he's #3 on the depth chart when it comes to defenseman. McQuaid still has a better hairdo, though.
I'm tending to lean towards $3.36m per year is a little high, but the B's have room under the cap. I also have to remember that the cap went up, meaning the value of players in theory increases. He's comfortable playing with Chara and Chara seems to be comfortable with him. If Chara wasn't on the team, Boychuk would have the hardest slap shot. Not like that warrants a certain amount of cash, just an observation that Jack Edwards doesn't call him Johnny Rocket for nothing...unless Boychuk makes a mean milkshake. There were times last year I thought I was watching Fulton Reed warm up, but he's gotten his shot on or near the net on a more consistent basis this year.
They now have 5 of their 6 defenseman locked up past next season (Chara, Seidenberg, Boychuk, Ference, and THE DUDE). It's hard to imagine Corvo coming back next year after his contract is up. Dougie Hamilton is having himself a hell of a season up in the OHL (13 - 39 - 52) and you'd think he'd be given the opportunity to win a spot with the club. That's my prediction and if my track record may speak for itself you can probably mark that down with a sharpie.
If the B's had signed Boychuk to this deal over the offseason I would've been fairly pissed. His play dropped last season and I was wondering if there was going to be a spot for him on this team in the future. Oh silly me. He has played a solid game this entire year, spending most of his time next to the Slovakian giant. I agree with some of the other writers that he's #3 on the depth chart when it comes to defenseman. McQuaid still has a better hairdo, though.
I'm tending to lean towards $3.36m per year is a little high, but the B's have room under the cap. I also have to remember that the cap went up, meaning the value of players in theory increases. He's comfortable playing with Chara and Chara seems to be comfortable with him. If Chara wasn't on the team, Boychuk would have the hardest slap shot. Not like that warrants a certain amount of cash, just an observation that Jack Edwards doesn't call him Johnny Rocket for nothing...unless Boychuk makes a mean milkshake. There were times last year I thought I was watching Fulton Reed warm up, but he's gotten his shot on or near the net on a more consistent basis this year.
They now have 5 of their 6 defenseman locked up past next season (Chara, Seidenberg, Boychuk, Ference, and THE DUDE). It's hard to imagine Corvo coming back next year after his contract is up. Dougie Hamilton is having himself a hell of a season up in the OHL (13 - 39 - 52) and you'd think he'd be given the opportunity to win a spot with the club. That's my prediction and if my track record may speak for itself you can probably mark that down with a sharpie.
Golden Points: Nashville Predators
Bruins 4 - Predators 3 SO
Being more of an Eastern Conference fan, I don't know too much about the Predators. You know Shea Weber is one of the better defenseman in the league and if it wasn't for Chara he'd have the hardest slap shot in the league. They also have a Finnish goaltender, Pekka Rinne, who was a Vezina trophy finalist last season and is also having a pretty good year currently. They have horribly ugly home sweaters and finally, gulp, ex-Senator of 10+ seasons Mike Fisher is married to Carrie Underwood. I hate myself for knowing that...
Although this game went to overtime then a shootout, I thought the B's outplayed the Predators, who lie 5th in the West. When your team is struggling, it seems have to work even harder to pull off those victories. When your team is on fire, you squeak a couple wins in there that you probably shouldn't have gotten. That's the beauty and the hell of sports.
What I was most happy to see was the play of Milan Lucic (team high 7 shots). Even before scoring the game tying goal with a hair over a minute left, I would've said he was the best B's player on the ice that game. When he moves his feet and gets that big ole frame of his moving around, he can be a very dangerous player. The key word in the statement is "when". If he lets his emotions get the best of him, then he makes stupid mistakes, but this game he played a solid north-south game.
For most of the season, the second line has played more like a number 1 line, and they now are rewarded with a promotion with the Horton out with a concussion and Krejci and Lucic trying to find their games. Patrice Bergeron continues to have a stellar season, winning 60% of the faceoffs he took, scoring a shorty and scoring in the shootout. To be fair, Brad Marchand did nearly all the work on Bergie's shorthanded snipe, pushing the puck up the ice and splitting two defenders before laying it off to the assistant captain. Proving to the Boston fan base that they have a right to be excited about his skills, Tyler Seguin scored a nifty shootout goal: coming in with speed, slowing down then deking the crap out of Rinne. I'm pretty sure Rinne is still looking for his jockstrap.
Can't complete this post without showing love to the fourth line. As much as I wanted Paille demoted at the beginning of the season, I'll eat my words and say that I couldn't imagine breaking up this line. The chemistry they have together is pretty awesome and the give n' go between Thornton and Paille was even more awesome.
Now on to a few low points:
- I thought Thomas looked pretty, dare I say, normal this game. The Fisher goal is one that Timmy saves 99.99% of the time. He also seemed to be fighting the puck at times during the game. With the homestretch not too far off in the future, I would really like to see Tuukka and Timmy step up there game. I just need to find a way to get Thomas to stop updating his facebook status...
- The "Master of Time and Space" has not only figured out a way to slow the game down, but he's also figured out how to completely disappear. Ever since fellow linemate Horton went down with a concussion, Krejci has been struggling to find his game. We know how great he can be, but we'd like to see the centerman who just received a nice raise play at a high level on a consistent basis.
Tonight and tomorrow will be a nice test for the Bruins. We have the #1 team in the Eastern Conference, NY Rangers, coming to down tonight and then we travel up to Montreal and try to take down the Habs in the Bell Centre. If the Bruins aren't focused, they could get embarrassed these two games. I don't care how poorly the Habs are playing this year, it's always an interesting contest between the two. It makes it even more difficult having played the Rangers the night before.
Being more of an Eastern Conference fan, I don't know too much about the Predators. You know Shea Weber is one of the better defenseman in the league and if it wasn't for Chara he'd have the hardest slap shot in the league. They also have a Finnish goaltender, Pekka Rinne, who was a Vezina trophy finalist last season and is also having a pretty good year currently. They have horribly ugly home sweaters and finally, gulp, ex-Senator of 10+ seasons Mike Fisher is married to Carrie Underwood. I hate myself for knowing that...
Although this game went to overtime then a shootout, I thought the B's outplayed the Predators, who lie 5th in the West. When your team is struggling, it seems have to work even harder to pull off those victories. When your team is on fire, you squeak a couple wins in there that you probably shouldn't have gotten. That's the beauty and the hell of sports.
What I was most happy to see was the play of Milan Lucic (team high 7 shots). Even before scoring the game tying goal with a hair over a minute left, I would've said he was the best B's player on the ice that game. When he moves his feet and gets that big ole frame of his moving around, he can be a very dangerous player. The key word in the statement is "when". If he lets his emotions get the best of him, then he makes stupid mistakes, but this game he played a solid north-south game.
For most of the season, the second line has played more like a number 1 line, and they now are rewarded with a promotion with the Horton out with a concussion and Krejci and Lucic trying to find their games. Patrice Bergeron continues to have a stellar season, winning 60% of the faceoffs he took, scoring a shorty and scoring in the shootout. To be fair, Brad Marchand did nearly all the work on Bergie's shorthanded snipe, pushing the puck up the ice and splitting two defenders before laying it off to the assistant captain. Proving to the Boston fan base that they have a right to be excited about his skills, Tyler Seguin scored a nifty shootout goal: coming in with speed, slowing down then deking the crap out of Rinne. I'm pretty sure Rinne is still looking for his jockstrap.
Can't complete this post without showing love to the fourth line. As much as I wanted Paille demoted at the beginning of the season, I'll eat my words and say that I couldn't imagine breaking up this line. The chemistry they have together is pretty awesome and the give n' go between Thornton and Paille was even more awesome.
Now on to a few low points:
- I thought Thomas looked pretty, dare I say, normal this game. The Fisher goal is one that Timmy saves 99.99% of the time. He also seemed to be fighting the puck at times during the game. With the homestretch not too far off in the future, I would really like to see Tuukka and Timmy step up there game. I just need to find a way to get Thomas to stop updating his facebook status...
- The "Master of Time and Space" has not only figured out a way to slow the game down, but he's also figured out how to completely disappear. Ever since fellow linemate Horton went down with a concussion, Krejci has been struggling to find his game. We know how great he can be, but we'd like to see the centerman who just received a nice raise play at a high level on a consistent basis.
Tonight and tomorrow will be a nice test for the Bruins. We have the #1 team in the Eastern Conference, NY Rangers, coming to down tonight and then we travel up to Montreal and try to take down the Habs in the Bell Centre. If the Bruins aren't focused, they could get embarrassed these two games. I don't care how poorly the Habs are playing this year, it's always an interesting contest between the two. It makes it even more difficult having played the Rangers the night before.
Tuesday, January 17, 2012
Golden Points: Game 42 vs Florida
Bruins 3 - Panthers 2
It what was a surprisingly entertaining game, the B's barely squeaked out a victory over the Southwest Division leading Florida Panthers. That's right, the #3 seed in the East are the Florida Panthers. Let that one sink in a bit. Give credit to the brass of Florida, they completely revamped this team over the offseason and it's paid off. Now their attendance still isn't where it should be, but if the new alignment ever gets approved, they will directly benefit from having the likes of Boston, Montreal and Toronto coming to town more often. You guys see how many B's fans were there? It'd be interesting to see if they could poll who you were cheering for as you are walking in to determine the percentage.
It's the same song and dance after every game that Tuukka starts. This guy is playing out of his mind right now and would be a starting goaltender on almost any other team in the league. Although Rask's numbers are better, Thomas gets grandfathered into the starting role because of his performance last year. We're really being spoiled right now with this goaltending tandem.
But is it going to last? Rask is a restricted free agent at year end. Pay 'em? I say yes, but it takes two to tango. He knows next year he'd probably be the back up too. Hopefully Chiarelli can do his best used car salesman and convince him this is the best opportunity for his development and his career. Good luck!
Without Tuukka, the B's lose this game. I thought the defensive play was sub par and the offense was okay. They let up way too many break aways and as good as Rask is, he can only do so much on breakaways. I hate hate HATE letting up a goal immediately after our own power play. Don't hear that "tap tap tap" on the ice?! Tuukka's letting you know some dude is about to jump out of the penalty box... GET YOUR ASS BACK!!!!!
Anyways, the number one center on the All-Star snub team (though who really cares about the All-Stars), Bergie, had another fantastic game. He scored the only two goals and game up huge by scoring in the final round of the shootout, which extended the shootout and allowed Krejci to score the winner.
The B's are taking the tour of Florida this week and playing Tampa Bay tonight. How is Tampa so bad? I don't believe their record, they have too many good players to be this bad. Is this the same team that went to the Eastern Conference Finals GAME 7 last year?? It'll be interesting to watch. This is also Marchand's last game out.
It what was a surprisingly entertaining game, the B's barely squeaked out a victory over the Southwest Division leading Florida Panthers. That's right, the #3 seed in the East are the Florida Panthers. Let that one sink in a bit. Give credit to the brass of Florida, they completely revamped this team over the offseason and it's paid off. Now their attendance still isn't where it should be, but if the new alignment ever gets approved, they will directly benefit from having the likes of Boston, Montreal and Toronto coming to town more often. You guys see how many B's fans were there? It'd be interesting to see if they could poll who you were cheering for as you are walking in to determine the percentage.
It's the same song and dance after every game that Tuukka starts. This guy is playing out of his mind right now and would be a starting goaltender on almost any other team in the league. Although Rask's numbers are better, Thomas gets grandfathered into the starting role because of his performance last year. We're really being spoiled right now with this goaltending tandem.
But is it going to last? Rask is a restricted free agent at year end. Pay 'em? I say yes, but it takes two to tango. He knows next year he'd probably be the back up too. Hopefully Chiarelli can do his best used car salesman and convince him this is the best opportunity for his development and his career. Good luck!
Without Tuukka, the B's lose this game. I thought the defensive play was sub par and the offense was okay. They let up way too many break aways and as good as Rask is, he can only do so much on breakaways. I hate hate HATE letting up a goal immediately after our own power play. Don't hear that "tap tap tap" on the ice?! Tuukka's letting you know some dude is about to jump out of the penalty box... GET YOUR ASS BACK!!!!!
Anyways, the number one center on the All-Star snub team (though who really cares about the All-Stars), Bergie, had another fantastic game. He scored the only two goals and game up huge by scoring in the final round of the shootout, which extended the shootout and allowed Krejci to score the winner.
The B's are taking the tour of Florida this week and playing Tampa Bay tonight. How is Tampa so bad? I don't believe their record, they have too many good players to be this bad. Is this the same team that went to the Eastern Conference Finals GAME 7 last year?? It'll be interesting to watch. This is also Marchand's last game out.
Tuesday, January 10, 2012
Marchand Suspended 5 games...and my beef with the 'Nucks
While waiting for the results of Marchand's hearing, I refrained myself from posting because I was getting extremely heated at the Vancouver Canucks and their organization. Now I'm heated at the Canucks and the NHL and I just can't hold it back.
As I said in an earlier post, I do think Marchand should be suspended. I thought 2 would be fair, but if you take into consideration he's been suspended and fined before then I'd up it to 3 games. If you take this instance in a vacuum, then I'm not that upset. He got two more games than I thought, oh well.
Enter in the lobbying effort by the Canucks. I just don't see how their coach, Vigneault, can say things like, "He'll get his". I am shocked that the league hasn't fined him for saying this. He's basically putting a hit out on Marchand. Why hasn't Shanahan stepped up?!
And the GM, Gillis, saying things like "a dirty hit by a dirty player". You don't like dirty players Gillis?! One of the dirtiest players in the league, Lapierre, flies over and jumps on top of the pile trying to get in a few cheap shots. Even TSN.ca (the Canadian ESPN) columnist and former referee agrees, Lapierre should've received the game misconduct as what he did is the definition of "third man in".
How about your "tough" guy Wiese? Clearly telling Thornton he'd gladly fight him, but only then to back off like a coward. No, but it's cool for your goon to take on our first line winger. Does anyone on your first line stand up for themselves or their teammates?
Next Mr. Gillis, you employ Andrew Burrows on your team. Apparantley you think it isn't a dirty move to bite the fingers of your opponent....then joke about it on national television.
Yeah, Marchand will have to answer the bell someday, but he isn't afraid to. Maybe someday Burrows, Wiese and Lapierre will "get theirs" too.
Just because our players are tougher than yours, just because they aren't afraid to drop the gloves, just because our team takes after our captain and your team takes after yours, doesn't mean they are dirty. I would take the make up of this Bruins team over the make up of the Canucks team every...single...time. Yeah, the Canucks are very skilled, but my neutered dog has more balls than them.
Yes, I believe Marchands hit was dirty. Unfortunately the league has been very inconsistent with this type of hit and there needs to be clarification now. There were two instances during the finals last year, one against Lucic and one against Marchand, where a nearly identical hit occurred. Unlike Salo, neither of them turned their back and luckily didn't hit their head on the ice, but the hits are almost identical. Why were those not called? This Boston.com article has the video's to prove it.
Normally you don't see Chiarelli or Julien say much towards another team or player, but I am very happy that in this situation they stepped up to the plate and defended Marchand and the rest of the team. That shows good leadership, not what Vancouver's brass is doing.
I'm finished. I could go on and on, but I'm done. I really wish we played them again this season, I guess we could if we both make it to the finals again. I would love nothing more than to spank them again!!!
As I said in an earlier post, I do think Marchand should be suspended. I thought 2 would be fair, but if you take into consideration he's been suspended and fined before then I'd up it to 3 games. If you take this instance in a vacuum, then I'm not that upset. He got two more games than I thought, oh well.
Enter in the lobbying effort by the Canucks. I just don't see how their coach, Vigneault, can say things like, "He'll get his". I am shocked that the league hasn't fined him for saying this. He's basically putting a hit out on Marchand. Why hasn't Shanahan stepped up?!
And the GM, Gillis, saying things like "a dirty hit by a dirty player". You don't like dirty players Gillis?! One of the dirtiest players in the league, Lapierre, flies over and jumps on top of the pile trying to get in a few cheap shots. Even TSN.ca (the Canadian ESPN) columnist and former referee agrees, Lapierre should've received the game misconduct as what he did is the definition of "third man in".
How about your "tough" guy Wiese? Clearly telling Thornton he'd gladly fight him, but only then to back off like a coward. No, but it's cool for your goon to take on our first line winger. Does anyone on your first line stand up for themselves or their teammates?
Next Mr. Gillis, you employ Andrew Burrows on your team. Apparantley you think it isn't a dirty move to bite the fingers of your opponent....then joke about it on national television.
Yeah, Marchand will have to answer the bell someday, but he isn't afraid to. Maybe someday Burrows, Wiese and Lapierre will "get theirs" too.
Just because our players are tougher than yours, just because they aren't afraid to drop the gloves, just because our team takes after our captain and your team takes after yours, doesn't mean they are dirty. I would take the make up of this Bruins team over the make up of the Canucks team every...single...time. Yeah, the Canucks are very skilled, but my neutered dog has more balls than them.
Yes, I believe Marchands hit was dirty. Unfortunately the league has been very inconsistent with this type of hit and there needs to be clarification now. There were two instances during the finals last year, one against Lucic and one against Marchand, where a nearly identical hit occurred. Unlike Salo, neither of them turned their back and luckily didn't hit their head on the ice, but the hits are almost identical. Why were those not called? This Boston.com article has the video's to prove it.
Normally you don't see Chiarelli or Julien say much towards another team or player, but I am very happy that in this situation they stepped up to the plate and defended Marchand and the rest of the team. That shows good leadership, not what Vancouver's brass is doing.
I'm finished. I could go on and on, but I'm done. I really wish we played them again this season, I guess we could if we both make it to the finals again. I would love nothing more than to spank them again!!!
Monday, January 9, 2012
NHLPA Rejects the New Alignment Plan
A few days late in reporting, but I didn't want it to get buried under my must read Golden Points!!
The weekend started with news that the NHLPA rejected the new alignment that was proposed earlier in the season. They sited unanswered questions regarding the extra travel for some teams (boo hoo) and the uneven number of teams in each conference, making it easier for teams in the 7 team conferences to make the playoffs. Instead the current format will still be in place for the 2012-2013 season (and yes, Winnipeg will still be in the Southwest division of the Eastern conference... makes sense).
I was shocked when I heard this. When this plan was first released, it seemed like a majority of the people had a positive reaction about it. I know fans in the midwest were particularly happy because they'd be playing against more Midwestern teams and not the west coast.
I'm also very nervous now. The CBA is up after this season and the NHL absolutely cannot afford to have another lockout. Granted I'm not going anywhere, but the casual sports fan who has started to watch more hockey will be scared away for good. Although this isn't part of the actual CBA negotiations, this is not a good start. If this is any indication of how the talks will go this summer, I'm nervous. The players association has pissed off the owners with this rejections and I'm sure the owners won't forget this.
Keep your fingers crossed and let's just enjoy the rest of the 2011-2012 season while we can.
The weekend started with news that the NHLPA rejected the new alignment that was proposed earlier in the season. They sited unanswered questions regarding the extra travel for some teams (boo hoo) and the uneven number of teams in each conference, making it easier for teams in the 7 team conferences to make the playoffs. Instead the current format will still be in place for the 2012-2013 season (and yes, Winnipeg will still be in the Southwest division of the Eastern conference... makes sense).
I was shocked when I heard this. When this plan was first released, it seemed like a majority of the people had a positive reaction about it. I know fans in the midwest were particularly happy because they'd be playing against more Midwestern teams and not the west coast.
I'm also very nervous now. The CBA is up after this season and the NHL absolutely cannot afford to have another lockout. Granted I'm not going anywhere, but the casual sports fan who has started to watch more hockey will be scared away for good. Although this isn't part of the actual CBA negotiations, this is not a good start. If this is any indication of how the talks will go this summer, I'm nervous. The players association has pissed off the owners with this rejections and I'm sure the owners won't forget this.
Keep your fingers crossed and let's just enjoy the rest of the 2011-2012 season while we can.
Sunday, January 8, 2012
Golden Points: Game 38 vs Vancouver
Canucks 4 - Bruins 3
Although the end result was not what I was hoping for, the entertainment value of the Stanley Cup Finals rematch did not disappoint one bit. The 'Nucks are very special team. I've never not cared about a team one bit to absolutely despising every player on a team so quickly as I have with the Canucks. Lapierre, Burrows and Weiss are the definition of the type of hockey player I can't stand and I highly doubt I'm alone. It didn't take long for the B's to be fed up with their antics. We were treated to a lovely 1st period scuffle that saw Thornton being jumped by 6 Canucks players, Lucic getting wrongfully ejected (NHL has rescinded the game misconduct and no suspension given), and 4th liner Weiss picking a fight with 1st line winger Horton. On the replay it shows how smart Burrows is when he pokes Thornton's throat with his stick...stupid Burrows.
It was quite enjoyable watching the B's come to the aid of their fellow teammate, but this scrum somehow led to the Bruins being down two men. Kesler scored the first goal of the game, but hey... it's hard to keep the number one power play from scoring on a full 2 minute two-man advantage.
Campbell got the crowd going for the second time of the night by engaging in a not as entertaining bout with Lapierre. The Garden faithful wanted blood in this fight. We chanted "Campbell...Campbell" hoping to see a whoopin' we all know Lapierre deserves, but it was really more of a grappling match with a few punches thrown.
What happened next was disgraceful. As replays show, Weiss seemed to verbally agree to drop his gloves against Thornton, fakes like he's going to once the puke is dropped, then backs away like a coward. Kudos to the ref that was standing right there, he gave Weiss two minutes for unsportsmanlike conduct...aka....two minutes for being a bitch.
I was steaming after that one. I very very much dislike this team. Did you ever think that you could ever hate Swedish twins?!
Even with all this other excitement, the story of the game was Brad Marchand's clipping penalty. Marchy got ejected from the game and put the team down a man for 5 minutes locked in. That means even when Vancouver scored...twice...the Bruins didn't get their man back on the ice. This is really what loses the game for them. The Canucks scored 4 goals and all 4 goals came on the power play. Two of their power play goals came as a result from this hit. Marchy can't be feeling too good about this one; injures a player and then ultimately causes your team to lose.
The hockey hombres I follow on Twitter originally were blasting Marchand for a cheap play. The play occurred in the corner of the rink I couldn't see. I just saw Marchand go into the corner and Salo's skates fly up over head...so I initially was going bonkers. After watching the replays I reluctantly agree with the tweets that it was a dirty play. Marchand does have the right to protect himself, but he has to do it in a manor that won't put Salo in serious harms way. I would expect a 2-3 game suspension from this.
Some good news? With Krejci's goal, he is now sporting an 8 game point streak (5 goals, 7 assists). With Krejci and the first line playing well again, you wonder how the outcome of the game would change if Lucic wasn't ejected from the game. We'll only be able to get another shot at them this year if we see them in the Stanley Cup Finals. I hope not, I really don't like seeing a team with that make up get rewarded. Hopefully someone else in the western conference can knock them out.
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