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.
A Boston Bruins blog by Dome
Thursday, March 29, 2012
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.
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