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.
A Boston Bruins blog by Dome
Wednesday, February 29, 2012
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.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)