Finland Beats The USA 4-1

NHL.com

It wasn't a pretty sight Wed. afternoon when the USA played against Finland in the 2nd game of the WJC. For most of the game the USA I think pretty much dominated, even when Finland went up by a 1-0 score in the 2nd period. It was almost like playing EA Sports NHL 12, where you can dominate the play, out shoot the other team by a 2-1 margin, but just can't stick it in the net. A ton of credit could go to Finland Goalie Sami Aittokallio as he stopped 38 of 39 shots in the game, with 16 coming in the 2nd period alone. I'm sure the Colorado Avalanche were happy to see that performance from their prospect. In the opening minute of the 3rd period though, Team USA was able to score their first goal of the game thanks to a redirection from Brandon Saad. Momentum was on the USA side, both goalies were playing strong and half way through the 3rd period the USA was given a Power Play opportunity. However, just a few seconds into the power play USA goalie John Gibson took a interference penalty, tripping up a player skating by the crease to set the play to 4 on 4. Really if you want to point out the key moment, that was it. In my opinion the USA lost all momentum and focus from this point on. In the ending moments of the 4 on 4, Markus Granlund scored on a breakaway to give Finland a 2-1 lead. A few seconds later Mikael Granlund scored to make it a 3-1 Finland lead. What all was said and done Finland took down the USA by a score of 4-1.

I hate to point the finger at the guy but Gibson really killed the USA in this game. Not from goals scored on but on that interference penalty. I'm not the only one who was baffled by it and it was easily the turning point. That said Team USA didn't capitalize on the rebounds Sami Aittokallio was leaving and the USA was passing a bit too much, trying to make things pretty. Either way, I don't like the fact NHL.com labeled this a upset. Before this game I wrote that Finland was a lot better then what they showed against Canada. They just got the unlucky draw of having to play them first without being battle tested. What more Finland has always given the USA some problems. Not like they have our number but the games tend to be close and very hard fought. Whether it be in the WJC or the Olympics. Either way things have gotten much more difficult for the USA, and if they want to get into the elimination round they HAVE to win against the Czech Republic on Friday.

USA Beats Denmark 11-3

Denver Post
NHL.com

After a tight 1st period against Denmark Monday night, Team USA came back and demolished Denmark 11-3 to capture their first win of the World Juniors. The first line consisting of Coyle, Zucker and Saad combined for 5 goals in the game. Kyle Rau also had two and 14 players at least got a point. Goalie Jack Campbell also had 20 saves for team USA.

My thoughts... It was a quick start for team USA scoring around the 40 second mark of the opening period. However, Denmark did try their best to make it a game. They capitalized on every single one of their Power Plays and it wasn't till the 2nd period when the dam broke and Denmark collapsed. They say that the early period goals set the tone... well it did and the USA never looked back. Though it was the first game some faults showed and I don't really worry about most of them. However the pack of aggressive play on the Penalty Kill put up a ton of red flags for me. Players stood around, no one cleared goalie's sights and Denmark for a team with not much offensive talent played simple hockey and made it look easy. There better be some major improvements there.

Team USA will face Finland next who got beat 8-1 to Canada. I'm expecting a much stronger effort on Finland's part this Wed. and they have given the US problems in the past.

USA has Jason Zucker / Canada has Jaden Schwartz

Just as I posted about Jason Zucker being named captain of Team USA, I come to find out Jaden Schwartz from Colorado College is named captain for Team Canada!

Two of the star collegiate hockey players from Colorado... representing the two rivals from the University of Denver and Colorado College, will represent at captains for the USA and Canada on the international stage.

I've said this before about Jaden... even as a Colorado College Tiger, I give him huge reps and respect. To play for Canada as a NCAA player is amazing because they don't bring in many. However, to be named captain for Canada is another. Huge reps to you.


http://www.nhl.com/ice/blogpost.htm?id=5000

Team USA Names DU Pioneer Jason Zucker Captain

http://www.nhl.com/ice/news.htm?id=607929

Today is a proud day if you are from the University of Denver. Team USA has just named Jason Zucker captain of Team USA. Congrats to you, all of us DU Alumni and Students are proud of you and go out and represent this great country.


"Jason Zucker just accepted his role in Saskatoon [in 2010]," Blais said. "He did whatever we asked him to do and that'll be a big deal for us this year as well."

Zucker, who stars at the University of Denver, has dutifully exemplified that quality the past two seasons for the U.S. National Junior Team. Despite the fact Zucker was tied for first in scoring at the University of Denver as a freshman last season with 45 points, including 23 goals, he reveled in his role as a ferocious checker and versatile role player for the bronze medal-winning Americans in Buffalo. Zucker played a similar role under Blais during the team's gold medal-winning run at the 2010 WJC."

More on NHL.com...

Team USA Has Their Final Roster

Well team USA has made their final cuts and have already played their first exhibition game at the World Juniors. According to Jason Zucker on twitter, USA fell to Russia last night with a game against Switzerland up next. Team USA is made of 14 players from the NCAA, 6 from the WCHA, 4 from Hockey East and 4 from the CCHA. 8 of the players are from the Canadian Juniors with all three goalies coming from there. This is a bit of a different Team USA we've seen from the past couple years. In the past they have been pretty balanced, but it looks like team USA is relying heavily on their collegiate boys this year.

Camp Roster - Player, School / Team. League (NHL Team Draft)
FORWARDS
Josh Archibald, Nebraska-Omaha, WCHA (Pittsburgh)
Bill Arnold, Boston College, HE (Calgary)
Nick Bjugstad, Minnesota, WCHA (Florida)
Connor Brickley, Vermont, HE (Florida)
Austin Czarnik, Miami, CCHA (2012 draft eligible)
Charlie Coyle, Boston University, HE (Minnesota)
Emerson Etem, Medicine Hat, WHL (Anaheim)
J.T. Miller, Plymouth, OHL (N.Y. Rangers)
Kyle Rau, Minnesota, WCHA (Florida)
Brandon Saad, Saginaw, OHL (Chicago)
T.J. Tynan, Notre Dame, CCHA (Columbus)
Austin Watson, Peterborough, OHL (Nashville)

Jason Zucker, Denver, WCHA (Minnesota)

DEFENSEMEN
Adam Clendening, Boston University, HE (Chicago)
Derek Forbort, North Dakota, WCHA (Los Angeles)
Kevin Gravel, St. Cloud State, WCHA (Los Angeles)
Stephen Johns, Notre Dame, CCHA (Chicago)
Jonathon Merrill, Michigan, CCHA (New Jersey)
Jarred Tinordi, London, OHL (Montreal)
Jacob Trouba, USNTDP U-18, USHL (2012 draft eligible)

GOALIES
Jack Campbell, Sault Ste. Marie, OHL (Dallas)
John Gibson, Kitchener, OHL (Anaheim)
Andy Iles, Cornell University, ECAC (2012 draft eligible) *Emergency Backup


The Schedule
Dec. 26 - U.S. vs. Denmark
Dec. 28 - U.S. vs. Finland
Dec. 30 - U.S. vs. Czech Republic
Dec. 31 - U.S. vs. Canada
Jan. 2 - Quarterfinals
Jan. 3 - Semifinals
Jan. 5 - Gold medal/bronze medal games

Team Canada Has Their World Junior Team

 http://www.nhl.com/ice/news.htm?id=606419

Forwards --
Michael Bournival, Shawinigan, QMJHL (Montreal)
Brendan Gallagher, Vancouver, WHL (Montreal)
Freddie Hamilton, Niagara, OHL (San Jose)
Quinton Howden, Moose Jaw, WHL (Florida)
Jonathan Huberdeau, Saint John, QMJHL (Florida)
Boone Jenner, Oshawa, OHL (Columbus)
Tanner Pearson, Barrie, OHL (2012 draft eligible)
Mark Scheifele, Barrie, OHL (Winnipeg)

Jaden Schwartz, Colorado College, WCHA (St. Louis)

Mark Stone, Brandon, WHL (Ottawa)
Devante Smith-Pelly, Anaheim, NHL
Ryan Strome, Niagara, OHL (New York Islanders)
Brett Connolly, Tampa Bay Lightning, NHL.

Defense --
Nathan Beaulieu, Saint John, QMJHL (Montreal)
Brandon Gormley, Moncton, QMJHL (Phoenix)
Dougie Hamilton, Niagara, OHL (Boston)
Scott Harrington, London, OHL (Pittsburgh)
Ryan Murray, Everett, WHL (2012 draft eligible)
Jamie Oleksiak, Saginaw, OHL (Dallas)
Mark Pysyk, Edmonton, WHL (Buffalo)

Goalies --
Mark Visentin, Niagara, OHL (Phoenix)
Scott Wedgewood, Plymouth, OHL (New Jersey)

Canada Schedule

What's interesting is that this year the U.S.A and Canada will be in the same group this year.

Dec. 26 - Canada vs. Finland
Dec. 28 - Canada vs. Czech Republic
Dec. 29 - Canada vs. Denmark
Dec. 31 - Canada vs. U.S.
Jan. 2 - Quarterfinals
Jan. 3 - Semifinals
Jan. 5 - Bronze/Gold Medal game

What's interesting is that there was a article in the Denver Post suggesting that Jaden Schwartz could be captain of Team Canada and Jason Zucker could be captain of Team USA. We'll see if that happens but considering both players play for rivaled teams... it could give DU vs. CC a huge spotlight for exposure.

Team USA World Junior Camp

One other things I wanted to touch up on is Team USA's World Juniors Potential Roster.

You know, this time of year there is a lot to be thankful and joyous about. The Holiday season is very fun and magical with something to always do... however, one of the best kept secrets in the sports world comes the day after Christmas. Every year hockey future stars are involved in the IIHF World Junior Championship. My favorite thing about this tournament is being able to see certain players represent their background, league, schools and country. You always have certain players you cheer for and you watch closely to see how they will position themselves in the NHL Draft the following year. This year is no exception to, plus I know Team USA will want to redeem themselves after that lack luster performance against Canada in the semi-finals last year.

The Schedule
Dec. 26 - U.S. vs. Denmark
Dec. 28 - U.S. vs. Finland
Dec. 30 - U.S. vs. Czech Republic
Dec. 31 - U.S. vs. Canada
Jan. 2 - Quarterfinals
Jan. 3 - Semifinals
Jan. 5 - Gold medal/bronze medal games

Last year team USA had a very easy schedule, which hurt them when Team Canada came around. Canada was playing against Russia, Sweden, very tough nations with strong programs. When it was Team USA chance to play Canada... we weren't tested and battle ready and Canada wiped the floor with us. It's good to see we have Finland and Czech Republic this time around and Canada at the end always happens. We'll see how we play.

Camp Roster - Player, School / Team. League (NHL Team Draft)
FORWARDS
Kenny Agostino, Yale, ECAC (Pittsburgh)
Josh Archibald, Nebraska-Omaha, WCHA (Pittsburgh)
Bill Arnold, Boston College, HE (Calgary)
Nick Bjugstad, Minnesota, WCHA (Florida)
Connor Brickley, Vermont, HE (Florida)
Austin Czarnik, Miami, CCHA (2012 draft eligible)
Charlie Coyle, Boston University, HE (Minnesota)
Emerson Etem, Medicine Hat, WHL (Anaheim)
Brian Ferlin, Cornell, ECAC (Boston)
John Gaudreau, Boston College, HE (Calgary)
J.T. Miller, Plymouth, OHL (N.Y. Rangers)
Shane Prince, Ottawa, OHL (Ottawa)
Kyle Rau, Minnesota, WCHA (Florida)
Brandon Saad, Saginaw, OHL (Chicago)
T.J. Tynan, Notre Dame, CCHA (Columbus)
Austin Watson, Peterborough, OHL (Nashville)

Jason Zucker, Denver, WCHA (Minnesota)

DEFENSEMEN
Adam Clendening, Boston University, HE (Chicago)
Justin Faulk, Carolina, NHL
Derek Forbort, North Dakota, WCHA (Los Angeles)
Kevin Gravel, St. Cloud State, WCHA (Los Angeles)
Stephen Johns, Notre Dame, CCHA (Chicago)
Seth Jones, USNTDP U-18, USHL (2013 draft eligible)
Austin Levi, Plymouth, OHL (Carolina)
Jonathon Merrill, Michigan, CCHA (New Jersey)
Jarred Tinordi, London, OHL (Montreal)
Jacob Trouba, USNTDP U-18, USHL (2012 draft eligible)

GOALIES
Jack Campbell, Sault Ste. Marie, OHL (Dallas)
John Gibson, Kitchener, OHL (Anaheim), *Andy Iles, Cornell University, ECAC (2012 draft eligible)

*This isn't the final line up*

As you can tell my focus player will be on University of Denver player Jason Zucker. It's good to see 15 players representing the NCAA Division 1 and what more it's great to see 7 of them coming from the WCHA. Team USA has always done a great job evenly matching College players with Canadian Junior League players. Any players who could come in due to injury isn't on this line up, however there is talk that University of Denver's Scott Mayfield and Nick Shore could be replacements.

NHL Realignment

So a huge and major announcement was made yesterday, confirming that the NHL will realign itself, with a new playoff system and everything.

FIRST LOOK: NEW CONFERENCES

CONFERENCE A	CONFERENCE B
CONFERENCE C	CONFERENCE D

According to the NHL "In the seven-team Conferences, teams would play six times -- three home, three away -- for a total of 36 inter-division games. In the eight-team Conferences, teams would play either five or six times in a season on a rotating basis -- for a total of 38 inter-division games.

The teams in the seven-team Conferences will have 46 out-of-conference games, including 23 at home and 23 on the road. The teams in the eight-team Conferences will have 44 out-of-conference games evenly split between home and away."

In short this is a great idea for the regular season, because it allows everyone to play each other twice. However, this is clearly a excuse to make sure certain NHL teams stay in the same division or conference as their rivals. There was a ton of talk the Red Wings for example was going to try and move to the Eastern Conference, which would of really hurt the Western. How so? Because if you are a Eastern team you easily get more exposure on TV and if you take a team as polarizing as the Red Wings out of the West, the West would lose a ton of luster. I think it got to a point where certain teams like Detroit, Minnesota, Columbus, just started complaining that they had to play a 9pm game on the West Coast too often and it could also mess them up during the playoffs. Also if you look at the teams in the West, you can tell they were separated geographically. However when you look at the east... it was all about rivalries. Some I question, like Washington not being in there with Tampa and Florida, but of course it's just to have more Crosby v. Ovechkin.

My biggest problem comes in the playoffs and it's format. One of the things I like the most at the end of the season is to watch those 2-4 teams fight it out for that last playoff spot. You always know the teams that are in the top 8 deserve it. Problem is you get the top 4 from each conference, but you could have a stronger conference team in 5th place with 95 points and lost out to a team in another conference with 90. In other worlds you'll start having teams with no business being there. Truthfully, I think that would be a little bit of a turn off come playoff time. Also I think the NHL is trying to "force rivalries" again. In my experience growing up rivalries aren't about teams playing each other over and over again... rivalries are built from two teams evenly matched, bad blood, and from intense playoff match ups. Look at all the non-divisional rivalries that have occurred over the years...

Colorado - Detroit
Chicago - Vancouver
Detroit - Vancouver
Dallas - Colorado
Dallas - Minnesota
Carolina - New Jersey
Anaheim - Nashville

It just feels like the NHL wants certain teams to have certain rivals... and it's just not something you can make happen, they just happen. They grow over time but you don't force them. Otherwise it would be like when the NHL got out of lockout and we played our division 8 times. That wasn't fun hockey... it was boring. Also there is a concern about the Stanley Cup Finals to. The worst case that could happen is that you end up with two teams from the East or the West playing for the cup. I think in terms of viewership that would really hurt the game. Will the west care at all if the Sabers played the Pens for the Cup? I don't think so... diehards might watch but the casual sports fan could be turned off.

I think you should at least separate the conferences by East and West... have conference A play B then C play D for a chance for the cup. This way you don't alienate one side of the country from the Finals.

I'll defiantly have more to say on the matter later on. Also I know it's been a long time since I updated, but with the Realignment, the World Juniors coming up and more time on my hands... expect more updates from me. In fact I think I'll even start my own, "You know what grinds my gears" articles.

Fatal Plane Crash In Russia

http://sports.yahoo.com/nhl/blog/puck_daddy/post/Report-Plane-crash-kills-8216-majority-8217-?urn=nhl-wp11993

http://www.nhl.com/ice/news.htm?id=587792

Tragedy has hit the hockey world again today, as a plane carrying players from a KHL hockey team crashed near the city of Yaroslavl in Central Russia. Out of 37 people on the plane 36 have already died with 1 in critical condition. Among them with NHL ties were players Josef Vasicek, Pavol Demitra, Karel Rachunek, Ruslan Salei, Karlis Skrastins, Red Wings prospect Stefan Liv and coach Brad McCrimmon.

Reports are saying that the jet, went down and caught fire shortly after taking to the air, crashing less than 2 kilometers from the airport.

*Update 9-12-11*
http://www.nhl.com/ice/news.htm?id=588186

The only hockey player survivor of the crash Alexander Galimov died this morning from the severe burns he obtained from the crash. It's strange to because there were reports of him being in stable condition, but it's just one of those quick turn arounds. I'm sure we were all pulling for him to survive, maybe learn about what he experienced but it's not to be. Pretty sad. There is one other survivor that hasn't been talked about much. A crew member named Alexander Sizov, but he remains in serious condition.

Winnipeg Jets Jerseys

The Jets showed off their new jerseys today. I think they are pretty stylish. What do you think?

University of Denver Pro Camp

http://www.denverpioneers.com/ViewArticle.dbml?DB_OEM_ID=18600&ATCLID=205246853

You know, I've always found this camp to be very interesting. Those outside of Colorado probably wouldn't know about this, but last year the University of Denver and Colorado Avalanche partnered together and started doing these Pro Camps. It's a rare opportunity for college players to practice and scrimmage with the pros, a chance to see where their skills stand and really this has marked the time before the start of training camp. Usually these have consisted of current DU Pioneer players and former players stretching from the NHL all the way down to the ECHL. Also a good number of Colorado Avalanche players past and present like to join in as well.

I know it's not big news, but it's defiantly a event I haven't seen anywhere else, plus like I said it's marking the time that it's almost training camp.

Chris Drury Retires

Drury calls it quits after dozen years in NHL

Today Chris Drury called it done after 12 years in the NHL. Capturing the Calder Memorial Trophy in 1999, Drury would lead a hockey career earning a title of clutch player. If you were in the playoffs and needed someone to score this was the man you look to. Drury would play for my boys the Colorado Avalanche until 2002, when the Avs made the worst trade in franchise history. He played for the Flames the for one season, then went to Buffalo the next and regaining his form as a clutch player. After 07 he went to the Rangers only to retire this year. On the side he represented team USA many times 3 Olympics twice a silver metal winner.

He was a man of sick talents, he was a hockey playoff hero and very good leader to. Just wish Colorado never traded him.

Boone Is Officially Back At DU!

http://letsgodu.blogspot.com/2011/08/denver-boone-is-dus-official-student.html

What's going on everyone. I know I haven't posted since the free agency in July, but it's summer. Really what's there to talk about... Baseball? Anyways I really felt like I had to put this up. For a good long while the University of Denver, my school has been in a bit of a fight over a beloved mascot that means near and dear to students and alumni. We call him Denver Boone, and he's had a impact on the DU scene since the 1960's. Early in the 1990's he was removed because the higher ups deemed him to be sexist and didn't represent the students. After that we were given a cock on steroids *Red Tail Hawk* named Ruckus and he was around from the late 90s till about 2008. During my time at DU a small group of students including Peter Mannino currently signed to the Winnipeg Jets, started to make a noise about Boone. People like myself started to wear coonskin caps to games and alumni such as the owner of the LetsGoDU blog, really started a revolution to get rid of the bird and fought tooth and tail for Boone. The higher ups didn't like it though and for a while we were afraid we wouldn't get our mascot much face time. They tried to keep anyone affiliated with the athletics department away and made it mandatory they could not have photos. They had meetings deeming him "micro-aggressive" saying he was a symbol of the suffering the Native Americans had to endure. However through the students and alumni, years of protesting and speaking out... we've finally gotten Boone to be our official student mascot. I know the fight is still going, but we've gotten a huge victory for the cause.

I need to make a huge shout out to DG from the LetsGoDU blog for being the lead in all this. I've known him for years, he's a good friend and means a ton to the students and alumni. Without him we wouldn't of gotten this far or even start to get the fans we need at games. Like myself there are many of us who want to repay you someday for everything you have done thus far and more you will do in the future.


As for the blog... we are 49 days away from hockey season. I'm planning on redesigning this site, I'll start putting up videos on youtube for more posts and soon I'll put out my predictions on who will finish where.

Can't wait for hockey season to start.

Ryan Smyth Back In Edmonton

Here's a little info I found really interesting. I've been seeing the rumors and it's come to pass Ryan Smyth is back with the Edmonton Oilers. I really enjoyed having Ryan Smyth here in Colorado a couple seasons ago. It's a shame things didn't work out the way we hoped. It was always obvious though his heart was in Edmonton and I'm sure there are a ton of Oiler fans happy to have him home. In exchange the Oilers gave the Kings Colin Fraser and a seventh-round pick in the 2012 NHL Draft.

I'm sure there are some ladies in Canada who can't wait to put their fingers through his hair.

http://www.nhl.com/ice/news.htm?id=567391&navid=mod-rr-headlines

My thoughts on the Colorado Avalanche Draft and Liles Trade

As the first day of the NHL draft came to an end I wanted to look at the 2nd and 11th picks the Colorado Avalanche had. I had hoped before the draft the Avs would go after a winger and a d-man and they did just that. What more they didn't go after super offensive guys either. Instead we went after a gritty power forward and a defensive minded defensemen. Two traits the Avs really lack in over the last few seasons.

2nd overall Gabriel Landeskog

Power Forward
Left Winger
Height: 6' 0", Weight: 207
Played for the Kitchener Rangers *OHL*
GP: 53
G: 36
A: 30
P: 66
PIM: 61
The NHL analysis label him as a Brenden Morrow type of player.

I've been checking out his highlights on Youtube and not only will he bring grit, a presence in front of the net and a kick butt mentality, but he will also bring a ton of support for Matt Duchene. I really do feel that this pick was made not just as a 2nd best choice, but with Duchene in mind. Whether it be Hejduk or Fleischmann as the other winger, we have a player that will be able to clear room for them and hopefully do the job we hoped Ryan Smyth could have done for us. I hope he can become a player who can make a huge impact like Dustin Byfuglien and I think we'll be seeing him in a Avs jersey at the start of next season.




11th overall Duncan Siemens

Defensive Defensemen
Defense
Height: 6' 2", Weight: 192
Played for the Saskatoon Blades *WHL*
GP: 72
G: 5
A: 38
P: 43
PIM: 121
The NHL analysis label him as a Bryan Allen type of player. Though others say he has traits of Scott Stevens.



This is defiantly the type of player the Avs need. A guy who thinks defense first, loves to hit, can fight, has good speed to chase down forwards and push them to the side... This is a type of player the Avs lack in dearly. I have a feeling we won't really see him at the start of the season, unless we see a injury. I think he needs to bulk up a bit more but I really feel he could be a great reliable d-man for us soon. What I hope he really brings though is a Chris Pronger attitude.

Now as for the trade news on John Michael Liles...

Where a good number of Avs fans are calling The Fan, complaining, crying that a "Star Player" has been traded, I look at this and say why didn't this happen sooner? Granted J.M.L. is a good guy but the only thing that made him a defensemen on this team was the D next to his name on the roster. I really don't think he was committed to the supporting of the goalie and was more focused on getting that next goal. Which I understand the importance of having a good shooter at the blue line, but if you are a d-man your first responsibility is to support your goalie. Every time when the trade rumors started he stepped his game up and tried to play D, but that's the thing he had to be motivated to do it. I just wish we would of done this a few season's earlier, when Ottawa was thinking of trading one of their star players for him. All we got was a 2nd round draft pick for the 2012 draft.

There is more drafting going on today, but now I'm more looking forward to July and free agency. The Avs desperately need to pick up a goalie and I would like to see them pick up a strong, beat the hell out of you, block shots, stay at home d-man. I don't expect a big name or anything, but I'd like to see someone who at least has the passion and the drive to do his #1 job, which is helping our goalie.

NHL 2011-2012 Schedule

NHL.com has released the scheduled for next season.
http://www.nhl.com/ice/news.htm?id=566826&navid=mod-rr-headlines

SEASON OPENING NIGHT (THURSDAY, OCT. 6)
Flyers @ Bruins, Habs @ Leafs, Pens @ Canucks

COMPUWARE NHL PREMIERE GAMES
Friday, Oct. 7 and Saturday Oct. 8
* Games featuring Rangers, Sabres, Kings and Ducks will be split between three European cities: Stockholm, Helsinki, Berlin

PAST TWO STANLEY CUP CHAMPIONS MEET
Boston @ Chicago -- Saturday, Oct. 15

HALL OF FAME GAME
Boston @ Toronto, Saturday, Nov. 5

ALL-STAR BREAK
Jan. 26-30

2011 STANLEY CUP FINALISTS MEET
Vancouver @ Boston – Saturday, Jan. 7

BUSIEST DAY OF SEASON
Saturday, April 7 -- 15 games

REGULAR SEASON CONCLUDES
April 7, 2012


As for the Colorado Avalanche, we get to start against the Detroit Red Wings on Saturday October 8th. I'm kind of surprised to see them so soon. Then we will head to Boston to see the Bruins on the following Monday. It will be a very good test to see what this team has in October.

Other dates I like to focus on are October 20th and 22nd when we get a home and home with the Blackhawks. I'll defiantly be attending the game in Colorado.

Later on tonight, I'll be tossing up my impressions on what the Avs NEED to do in the draft but especially Free Agency.

See the rest at http://avalanche.nhl.com/club/schedule.htm

The Boston Bruins Win The Stanley Cup! Also we have a riot in Vancouver!

Ok first things first... Boston huge kudos to you. Before this series started I didn't think you would of put up much of a fight, let alone win the cup. After all the trash talk, cheep shots, injuries, back and forth play you came out on top in a very impressive fashion. Tim Thomas, I have given you a ton of criticism in the past. Way to man up and not only lead the Bruins to this point, but to also really show how great of a goalie you really are. You were Conn Smyth material and watching you lead at your age was really one impressive showing.

In a game where everything was up for grabs we were treated to a well played out game. In the first half of the first period, I was not really impressed with Boston's play. It seemed like they were holding on for dear life. If there is one thing you can point out though, the Bruins didn't give the Canucks any room in the slot. You still have to wonder how long the Bruins could hold out though. Then the Canucks got caught with their pants down. With 5:24 left in the first period, the Canucks ended up winning the faceoff in their zone, but allowed Bruins forward Marchand to easily skate past them, get the puck and hold onto it long enough for Patrice Bergeron to get in front and score the first and game winning goal. It caught everyone by surprise, especially Vancouver and after that nothing was the same. Though the Canucks made an effort to try and find the back of the net, Thomas would stand strong. The nail in the coffin would come late in the 2nd during the Canucks first powerplay. At 2:27 Bergeron would score short handed to make it a 3-0 game. The Canucks would follow that by a real weak 3rd period with no real pressure in front of the net. Boston wins 4-0.





As for the Canucks... plane and simple they blew it. They had all the advantages to win this series in 5 but it's obvious the demons are still there. Luongo is still questionable in the playoffs, the Sedins only showed up for the Sharks, there is no real leadership and I bet they don't have this great of a look at the cup for a long time. Maybe they shouldn't of partied so hard after barely beating the Hawks.


Then we get to this fun story. After the game many of those dressed in blue went out on the street and started a huge riot setting cars on fire and really destroying the town. A good number of Canuck fans have said "They are not real fans. They are an embarrassment." Therefor I will not call them Canuck fans. Hell I'd be embarrassed of my city and team if I were in their place. However, it will be hard not for the rest of the NHL and sports in general to not look at Vancouver and point them out as "That Team." I expect this from soccer guy not hockey guy. The Canucks will be carrying this on their shoulders for a long time.

GAME 7 FOR THE STANLEY CUP!

Ding Ding Ding... LADIES AND GENTLEMAN, IT IS TIME FOR THE MAIN EVENT OF THE SEASON!

For a series that should of been done in 5, with the Canucks talent alone winning them the cup, this series has been nothing but what most predicted. What we were introduced to was a street fight with trash talk, fights, injuries, cheap shots... this hasn't been your normal finals. It's been entertaining to say the least and I'm sure tomorrow will be a great conclusion.

So who takes the Cup?

On Vancouver's part, the home rink has been good to them all season. The Bruins haven't been able to do squat on Canuck ice and have kept them to 2 goals in 3 games in Vancouver. However, they are really beat up and missing a lot of pieces in their main line up. Mason Raymond was the latest casualty to this series with a vertebrae compression fracture. This series alone has taken a ton out of them and it will be interesting to see what's left in the take.

For the Bruins... they are in Luongo's head. 1 goal is all it takes to break his confidence and Tim Thomas I think will win the Conn Smyth trophy win or lose. They have the Canucks broken and bleeding but they have to learn how to play their hockey in Vancouver. If Vancouver scores first I don't expect the Bruins to get anything and the cup will go back to Canada.

The Hit That Changed A Series...

If you would of told me Boston would win two games in the Stanley Cup Finals... I would of been skeptical. If you would of told me the Bruins would dominate the scoring, I wouldn't of believed it. In a series where I thought offensively, on special teams, in depth and skill the Canucks would of won in 5. However, here we are in a best of 3 series. For the most part the Bruins didn't have much going for them in games 1 and 2. Sure they made a valiant effort to win, but it was obvious the skill level was making the difference. You could just tell by watching though, that something was getting shaken up. You could tell the pokes to the Bruins was starting to get bottled up and you had to wonder if they were going to burst. How much could they put up with? Unlike most Cup Finals in the past, the game and everything between the whistles have been so much more dirty. Everything started in game 1 with the incident known as The Bite that "nobody" saw,



Say what you want, the NHL should of suspended Alex Burrows. If something like that is suspendable in the regular season, it should be the same for the Finals. Game two comes Burrows is playing and he ends up scoring twice to help the Canucks win 3-2. The third straw comes in game 3 with a scary incident between Aaron Rome and Nathan Horton. Don Cherry pointed out before this hit, Thornton went over to the bench between plays and made a remark that piss off Rome. With that said the next shift we have the incident known as the hit. Clearly a very late, dirty hit that was in attempt to injure. If he was looking at making a point and put on a good body check on Horton then yes, that's dirty hit... but that's hockey. You get a two minute penalty, you feel shame and you'd go free, but not till after you made your point to the other team. However, it's another thing to lift himself to nail Horton in the head. Rome had time to adjust his hit properly and chose his target. That hit would become the final straw... the blow that not only woke the Bruins up but maybe screwed the Canucks' chances.




Games 3 and 4... both were crazy blowouts after the Rome hit. Game 3 the Bruins would win 8-1. 7 of those goals would come after the hit. Game 4 started with Bobby Orr waving a flag with Horton's number, inspiring the Bruins and lead them to a 4-0 win, with clear frustration coming from the Canucks. This isn't a simple momentum swing that you'll see in the playoffs. The Canucks provoked the Bruins to a point that they are not just playing physical hockey... they are playing very pissed off. The more dirty this series gets the easily it goes in Boston's favor. They are use to playing rough dirty hockey... it's in their history and nature. Guys like the Sedins are not use to it. Hell one of them tried to put a hit on Marchand close to the end of game 4 and ended up getting flipped into the boards. At the end Alex Burrows tried to pick a fight with Tim Thomas and didn't turn out so well. If the Canucks want to win the cup they need to stop provoking the Bruins and just play hockey. However, it's easy to tell they have lost their focus. I will say this now... If the Bruins win game 5, they will win the cup in game 6 on home ice. Then they can blame Aaron Rome for the incident. The Canucks' Stanley Cup run will be on the line Friday.

Stanley Cup Finals Prediction...

With the cup finals starting tonight it be a good idea to get in a quick prediction.

Normally I'd look at past series, games and who to look out for but with work really picking up this week, my prediction will be a little delayed.

Just for the record I'm picking the Canucks in 5. It's their cup to lose. I'll also put Kessler as the MVP.

As soon as I can get a little time for myself I'll put up my full report.

The Thrashers Are About To Move To Winnipeg

There has been a lot of talk and rumors going around of a group in Winnipeg, looking to buy a hockey team. The two teams talked about often were the Phoenix Coyotes and the Atlanta Thrashers. With the city of Phoenix literally putting money in to keep the franchise there, the next best option was to take the Thrashers. By no means is the deal done yet, but it sounds like the deal is nearly complete. It has to be approved by the NHL Board of Governors. We'll see how the vote goes but I think Canada has gotten a hockey team back.

http://www.nhl.com/ice/news.htm?id=564247

http://www.tsn.ca/nhl/story/?id=367433

The Boston Bruins Will Play For The Stanley Cup

In a game that was decided by the slimmest of margins, the Boston Bruins were able to defend their home ice and eliminate the Tampa Bay Lightning by a score of 1-0. For the most part this was a goaltending dual, with both goalies not only matching sprawling save after sprawling save, but both teams playing some excellent defense to. Not a single penalty was called in this game and from my prospective was justified. The refs did a great job of not only keeping emotions down but letting the players decide the game for themselves. Both teams had really good chances, though I would say Boston had way more of them. I find it ironic though, the entire post season most people gave so much credit for the Lightning's 1-3-1 defensive scheme and yet the lone goal came off a great crash the net tip in that made the scheme fail. With 7:33 left in the 3rd period, Nathan Horton redirected a pass from David Krejci to score the lone goal. After that the Bruins went into full defensive mode and hardly let Tampa find any really good chances. They couldn't penetrate the blue line and before you knew it the game was over. If anyone is going to challenge the Canucks it will have to be the Boston D.

As for Tampa Bay, that was a really solid effort that unfortunately wasn't enough. That was a great road game they played and did pretty much everything right. Dwayne Roloson had no chance, on the lone goal and the Lightning couldn't find a answer to Tim Thomas' great performance. I think Steve Yzerman has this team on the right track and next season the Lightning will come back even stronger. Though you have to wonder how much time Roloson has left.

Also I have to give a shout out to Steven Stamkos. He not only showed balls but is a pure example why hockey players are a whole other animal. They don't cry over bumps and bruises, cuts and scrapes, broken bones, etc... they get up, get fixed and get back out there. Two words... Man's Game!

Lone Goal


Steven Stamkos

The Vancouver Canucks Will Play For The Stanley Cup

After a hard fought game 5 in Vancouver on Tuesday night, the Canucks took care of business and defeated the Sharks in double overtime. The final score was 3-2 with the MVP of the series Kevin Bieksa scoring from the point. Any doubt in the hockey world should be gone by now. Not only did Vancouver take care of business but they also completely dominated the Sharks from game 1. Before the series started I chose the Sharks, mainly because at the time it looked as though they had their act together while the Canucks didn't. They were riding the back of Conn Smyth candidate Ryan Kesler and one line. What happened during their time off though is beyond me. Next time we saw the Canucks the Sudin twins finally made a huge impact in the playoffs, Kevin Bieksa took his game to another level and Roberto Luongo out dueled Neimi in the net. As a team playing on all cylinders, this is easily the team to pick to win the cup.

As for the Sharks, all I can say is what an embarrassment. Every time you think the Sharks had finally gotten their act together, they go and pull off a performance like this. They were so undisciplined through out the entire series, giving up most of the goals on the PP. Especially in game 4 where they gave the Canucks three 5 on 3 power plays in a row. Besides Joe Thornton no one else showed up in this series and while losing is one thing, to just flat out not show up is another. I should of known better then to pick the Sharks. Now it's time for me to eat crow.

Thoughts On The Conferance Finals Thus Far...

Well we've been treated to some very interesting hockey over the last few days. The Boston Bruins vs. Tampa Bay Lightning series, has defiantly had almost everything. Tons of back and forth action, great goals, unbelievable comebacks... all we need is a overtime game. To me Boston has really shown that they have the ability to shut down Tampa and that Tim Thomas can out goaltend Roloson. However, you have to wonder if that game 4 loss is going to haunt the Bruins for the rest of the series. Here you have a 3-0 lead in game 4 going into the second, had all the momentum, got Roloson pulled and end up losing 5-3 in Tampa. Costly turnovers and very bad decisions ended up costing them dearly then.

Game 4: Lightning Win 5-3 - Series Currently Tied At 2




In the west you have the Vancouver Canucks vs. San Jose Sharks and the Canucks have come out guns a blazing. Through out the entire playoffs I have questioned Vancouver. The series win against the Blackhawks didn't prove much, the series against the Predetors was a example of them taking care of business, but in just the first two games against the Sharks, the Canucks have proven so much more of what it means to be a Stanley Cup contender. The X Factors, the Sedin twins have finally woken up and have been a force. Kevin Bieksa as I said in the prediction has been a major contributor on the defensive line. He's been everything you want in a d-man clearing out the rebounds, hitting, battling against the wall and scoring. He's been the MVP of this series thus far. However, the Canucks can also thank the Sharks for very poor discipline. They have taken some very poor penalties which has lead to almost every one of the Canuck's goals. The only player who has shown up is Joe Thornton and if anything I can say he's looking like a playoff hockey player now. If the Sharks go down, you can't blame him. Big Joe is playing like a champion. Granted the Sharks won game 3, mainly because the Canucks took some stupid penalties. We'll see if the Sharks can tie the series in game 4.

Game 2: Canucks win 7-3 - Series Currently 2-1 Vancouver Canucks

Weastern Conference Finals

Tonight's the night. Here in the West we have two teams that over the past few years have been thought of as tough regular season teams, teams that should go on to win the cup. However, in one way or another they have blown it in some way, shape, or form, against teams they should beat. When all is said and done this year, one of these teams I believe will not only prove they've moved on but get a chance to play for the cup.

Vancouver Canucks: The Canucks road would start with a 3rd rematch against Chicago Blackhawks. Vancouver not only wanted to prove a point in this series, but also wanted to get rid of some demons. Now this Blackhawks team was no where close to being as in depth as we saw over the past two seasons. They were lucky to make the playoffs and we all thought they would lose in 5 games or less. That almost came to pass as the Canucks dominantly took an easy 3-0 lead in the series. Then something happened... maybe the Blackhawks remembered they have the Canucks' number and they are the defending champs. Games 4 and 5 would turn out to be an embarrassment as the Hawks won those scoring 7 in game 4 and 5 in game 5. Game 6 would be decided in overtime and the Hawks would defend their home ice in a brilliant display and move onto game 7. In game 7 the Canucks would dominate this game scoring early and getting many chances. However, they were not able to close out their rivals. In the last 2 minutes of the game the Hawks would score a short handed goal and send this thing into overtime leaving the game up for grabs. Both teams had some very good chances but in the end a turnover would lead to the Canucks finally finishing off the Blackhawks and moving onto the Semi-Finals. If Vancouver wanted to prove something, they only proved how lucky they were. You have to give the Hawks credit to push this thing to the last goal but it shouldn't of been this tough. Even sadder was how the whole city partied like they just won the cup.



The 2nd round brought in the Nashville Predators, who even now I wonder how they even beat the Anaheim Ducks. Again this is a team the Canucks should beat and again would show if they could take care of business. This time we were in for some really gritty hockey, with low goal scoring and a goaltending duel to boot. Every game would be decided by a 1 goal margin except for game 4. Two would go to overtime and though the Canucks were easily the better team, the Predators made it a series with some very lucky goals. In the end though they showed they could take care of business and finished off the Predators in game 6. Also Ryan Kessler really made his mark during this series and really showed why he's Conn Smyth material.



San Jose Sharks: Round 1 featured a classic California match up between the Sharks and the LA Kings. It really turned out to be a back and forth series but I think the game that really defined the Sharks came in game 3. At one point they were down 3-1, 4-2 then 5-3, but the Sharks kept on fighting back. Next thing you know the Sharks tie the game at 5, send it to overtime and beat... no I should say upset the Kings, on the road. After that game the Sharks would blow out the Kings the following game and finish off the Kings in 6. For me this series showed the wins they got last season against the Avs and Wings weren't by accident and they are starting to take care of business.



Round 2 would change my opinion though, as they got a rematch with the Detroit Red Wings. This series would see the closest goal margin in NHL history with every game but one, being decided by 1 goal, going 7 games. The Sharks would start off with a 3-0 lead in the series, winning two of those games in overtime and really demoralizing the Wings. Then from game 4 onward we saw a Red Wings team that not only really turn the momentum around but the mentality of the Sharks. In the next three games the Red Wings would put in dominating performances, making Antti Niemi face 40+ shots a game and really keeping the puck in the Sharks zone the entire game. The Sharks would get a couple of late leads only to blow them and the Red Wings would send this to game 7. You have to wonder will the Sharks choke again and blow a 3-0 lead? Well on game 7 the Sharks not only used their home ice advantage but they came out to play hockey taking a 2-0 lead in the first period. The game would settle a bit in the 2nd and would be pretty even, but late in the 2nd the Red Wings would cut the lead to 1. Half way through the 3rd period the Sharks would score to make it 3-1 then a minute later Pavel Datsyuk would score the goal of the playoffs to make it a 3-2 lead. You think the Red Wings would throw the kitchen sink at Niemi at the end of the game to tie it, but the Sharks did a very good job of controlling the play in the last few minutes. The Sharks would finally put an end to the Red Wings and move on to face the Canucks.




So who do you think will take this series? Here are my thoughts on the matchup.

Home Ice: Canucks

Offense: Sharks
While both teams have a lot of depth, you have to question the Vancouver offense. Sure you have Daniel, Henrik Sedin and Alex Burrowssome... but they have yet to make a real impact in the playoffs. They were almost no where to be seen in the Nashville series and disappeared after game 3 against the Blackhawks. Ryan Kessler has been the savior for the Canucks and has really taken his line and his team on his back and has put on one impressive display for all hockey fans to enjoy. Question is can he do it alone again... I don't think so. Even Conn Smyth winners need support and they will need it against a stacked Sharks team. As for the Sharks they are finally getting contribution from Joe Thornton and his line. Something that Shark fans have been waiting for. Logan Couture is really making something of himself on the 2nd line and Joe Pavelski continues to produce greatly. If the Canucks want to be feared in this department the Sedins really need to step their game up.

Defense: Canucks
Watching both teams in rounds 1 and 2 I really do think the Canucks have the blue line covered better. There are just times the Sharks would give up a lot of chances in front of their net and just leave Niemi out to dry. On the other side I look at Kevin Bieksa and Sami Salo really leading the team on the blue line, blocking shots, taking the body and really giving support to Luongo.

Goaltending: Sharks
Why would I not choose Antti Niemi over Roberto Luongo? Niemi has a Stanley Cup under his belt, he's beaten Luongo, he's proven himself as a goalie who can face 40+ shots and still get a win out of it, he can scramble with questionable defense, etc...

Special Teams: Canucks
Easily the PP has been a problem for the Sharks this postseason. The Sharks are 13.7% on the Power Play, while you compare it to the Canucks strong 86%. In fact for the Canucks most of their goals in the 2nd round came off the power play. On the Penalty Kill the Canucks are strong killing off 86% of their penalties with the Sharks going 82.7%

X Factor: Will the Sedins show up? Can Antti Niemi keep up the demanding 40+ saves if necessary?

My Verdict: I think for the most part the Sharks have more going for them with lines 1-3 really producing. I think Joe Thornton finally gets how playoff hockey works and he has two lines behind him to can produce when he matching up with the other teams star players. They have a goalie that knows how to win the cup and I think the Sharks are way more battle tested then the Canucks. I won't put Vancouver out of the picture just because Ryan Kessler is playing like a MVP this postseason, but I like the Sharks winning this.

Sharks in 6.

New York Rangers Forward Derek Boogaard Has Died...

Such a crazy story. Only 28 years old and he's passed away. There is no report on what caused it. Some think it might of had something to do with a major concussion he had earlier this season. We'll see, but it's sad to see a young life end like this. Prayers and condolences go out to the family.

UPDATE

They got the examiner's list for the cause of death. It ruled accidental and attributed to a mixture of drugs and alcohol.

Update...

http://www.nhl.com/ice/news.htm?id=563345&navid=mod-rr-headlines

Found this nice tribute to him as well.

Eastern Conference Finals

Well; while we wait for the Western Conference Finals to be determined we have two strong surprising teams in the East waiting to jump back on the ice, for a chance to play for the Stanley Cup.

Boston Bruins: During the first round of the playoffs they looked down and out after two games. Then what happened... they get their captain Zdeno Chara back from injury, the Canadians made some TERRIBLE turnovers resulting in 3 goals and the Bruins found life again. Though the Canadians fought back this series went down to the wire and on game 7, the Bruins finally put their hated rival away in one impressive display.

The game that changed it all... Bruins at Canadians Game 3


2nd round they get a rematch with the Philadelphia Flyers, where 1 year ago the Bruins blew a 3-0 lead and lost to the Flyers in game 7. This time, they not only were looking for redemption or payback, the Bruins were looking to lay a beating the Flyers would never forget. From the opening puck drop the Bruins didn't give the Flyers any life or any hope. In 3 of the 4 games the Bruins scored at least 5 goals and left the Flyers scoring an average of 1.75 goals a game. They made the Flyers rotate the goalies every game and they won every battle on the ice. Clearly they had their say in the NHL.




Tampa Bay Lightning: Going into the playoffs Tampa went in hot. The first round had a date with the Crosby and Malkinless Pittsburgh Penguins. A series that many thought would be a easy pass for the Lightning, surprisingly became a fight for survival. I don't know when this may of happened but according to sources the GM Steve Yzerman had a talk with the team, somewhere around games 5 and 6. Whatever he told the team it helped, as the Lightning climbed back from a 3-1 hole to win in game 7.



Round 2 came and after one impressive display from the Washington Capitals, many including myself thought... hey this might finally be their time. Well though the series was very close and every game was decided by 1 goal, the Lightning showed they not only have the scoring depth and hard hitting defence but MVP caliber goaltending in Dwayne Roloson. Now they may have not of been as flashy as the Bruins in their sweep, but what the Lightning showed is that they can contain star players, they have well balanced scoring and they can set their own pace to a game.



The question is who do you chose to go to the Cup Finals? Here's my opinions how everything stacks up.

Home Ice: Bruins

Offense: Lightning
Both teams have some great scoring players and a lot of depth. However, I like the well balanced offense from the Lightning. They get a lot of production from lines 1-3 and their defense has really been stepping up point wise.

Defense: Bruins
After the physical punishment and beat down they gave to the Flyers why wouldn't you. Yes the Lightning have some good hitters to but I look at a Bruins team that's committed to taking out the body, block a ton of shots and are willing to fight tooth and nail for the rebounds.

Goaltending: Lightning
Really this series will be a goaltending duel. Both goalies are the same age with pretty much the same stats. Reason I'm choosing Roloson is because he's been here before and he's playing like the Roloson we saw in 2006 for the Oilers. He is really leading this team and is giving them a ton of confidence.

Special Teams: Lightning
Statistacly the Lighting have been very good and extremely consistent on the Power Play and the Penalty Kill. They are 26.7% on the PP and 94.4% on the PK. The Bruins on the other hand are easily one of the worst in this years playoffs. They are 5.4% on the PP and 80.5% on the PK. It's easily showed in rounds 1 and 2 and I expect the Lighting to stay on pace.

X Factor: Will the Bruins play with the same intensity they brought to the Flyers? Who will start clicking first after a long break? Both have had the same amount of time to rest.

My Verdict: I like the Lightning winning this series in 6 on their home ice. From what I've seen from both teams the Lightning have just been more consistent and I just like the well balanced scoring depth. I like the fact Roloson is playing like the goalie who got the young Oilers team to the Finals oh so long ago and I like the response the team gives him when he makes a huge save.

We are in for one really good series.

Ovechkin said it... "We're Going To Win"

I know being down 3-0 in a series seems like the end of the world. However, if you asked the Blackhawks this season and the Flyers from last... it's not over yet. Now I won't look into this too much but just imagine... What if Ovechkin's statement happened? It would be a historical moment in the NHL and easily could make him a legend. I start to think of Mark Messier from 1994 with the Rangers down 3-2 to the Devils and he guaranteed We Will Win. Probably one of the most historical moments in hockey and even in sports in general. I look forward to Game 4 though... lets see if Ovechkin can make true to his statement.

http://www.nhl.com/ice/news.htm?id=561881

Detroit, Washington & Philadelphia... No Where To Be Found!?!?!

Well two games in and the second round hasn't been anything like I predicted. The Flyers came out so flat in game 1, ended up getting beaten baddy 7-3 then lost a couple days latter in overtime. Boston has really exploited the Flyers goaltending and so far the rotation hasn't paid off like it did against Buffalo.

Washington though getting points from their top players, hasn't been able to outscore the well balanced Lightning offense. Plus the Capitals are 0 for 11 in power plays against the Lightning. Then you have Dwayne Roloson... for being over 40, he's showing no signs of falling. In fact he's playing a lot like he did back with the Oilers in 2006.

Then as for Red Wings, they have ran into a very good Nemi and posting a 0.95 Goals Against Average and has been extremely impressive. I bet Chicago would of wish they signed him to the 3.5 he deserved. Also while the offensive stars on both sides have been quiet, the Sharks have gotten a little more from their unsung heroes like Ian White. The Sharks have really taken the physical game to the Red Wings and their defense have really contributed in most of their offensive chances.

It will be interesting to see how they all adjust to the tone of the series thus far. However, if I had to guess... I say the Sharks and Lightning have the Wings and Capitals ready for the picking.

2011 NHL Playoffs Round 2

Sorry I'm late on my predictions for round 2. I've had a lot on my plate over the past couple days. I won't go as in depth as I like but this is what I'm thinking even though a couple games have already happened.

East

Washington Capitals vs. Tampa Bay Lightning: Capitals in 6
Though I like the Lighting's all round play I think the Caps offense and defense match up to the lightnings pretty well. This will come down to goaltending and I think the lighting will ware out as the series goes further since they had that 7 games with the Pens.

Flyers vs. Bruins REMATCH!: Flyers in 7

This will be the series of the 2nd round. We saw the miracle last season for the Flyers and you know the Bruins will be looking for payback. Why am I going with the Flyers? Believe it or not they are getting healthy and have Pronger back in the line up. In fact when he returned Buffalo didn't have the same jump offensively as they did before. Bruins are coming out of a grinder with the Canadians and I'm sure that will effect them in the end.

West

Canucks vs. Predators: Predators in 6
I'm not impressed wit the Canucks. They celebrate like crazy over beating a Blackhawks teams that was a shadow of their former self. Granted they had that power forward to bug Luongo the series would of been in the Hawks favor. On paper they have the superior team but that doesn't mean they know how to finish. That said, I was really impressed by the Predators in round 1. They really play a teams game and really proved me wrong in being a pure defense team. They lost game 1 but I'm still sticking with them to win it in 6.

Red Wings vs. Sharks: Red Wings in 6
This is a tough one to pick. I much rather see the Sharks move on but I think the Wings will be looking at redemption in this series. Also with the amazing performance by Pavel Datsyuk and the return of Henrik Zetterberg... I really feel they will be producing a ton of goals for the Wings.

The Day Of Reckoning Is Here... Hawks vs. Canucks Game 7

Over the past couple days I've been hearing it from a few Canuck fans on youtube and it's funny to see the team and fans complain about the officiating in game 6. They say they are calm and collected, but when you whine and complain the way they have over the past couple days it's obvious to anyone the pressure has gotten to them. For a series that should of been a breeze, against a team that's a ghost of their former selves, the Canucks have put themselves in a game 7 situation with everything on the line. Plane and simple the Canucks *Deemed as Canada's Hope*, is not as good as they keep bragging about. Sure they do well in the regular season but come playoff time, they fall apart.

So what do you make of this final match up this season? You have a Blackhawks team, though lacking in the depth they once had, has players that know how to win. Compared to a Canucks team, stacked with top players but haven't been able to finish. Home ice is in the Canucks' favor but, the Blackhawks have proven in the past they can win in Vancouver. This game can go either way, but in my opinion the damage has already been done. The Canucks are now exposed as the team we know them to be, and even if they move forward will still carry the question marks that have plagued them over the last few seasons.

We Got A Game 7!

In a game that Vancouver controlled, played mind games in and outshot the Hawks, the rookie Ben Smith saves the day and delivers a game 7. I'll touch up more on this game 7 later but I needed to post this up. Once again, Roberto Luongo falls and burns to the tune of Chelsea Dagger. He'll have nightmares tonight and he didn't play the whole game.

What a week of good hockey...

It's been a while since my last post and thought now would be a good time to talk some hockey.

I mainly wanted to touch up on a couple series. The first would be the Boston Bruins vs. Montreal Canadian series. A week ago I called the Bruins down and to start the count. Well since then the Bruins have mounted one amazing counter attack. Not only did they walk into Montreal and take both games 3 and 4, but in a classic defensive battle beat the Canadians in double overtime. What did they do different... they started putting pressure in front of the net! They didn't do that at all in the first two games. The Bruins defense have also committed to blocking shots and giving Thomas support. Even when they are not paying attention they are blocking them as we saw in the 2rd overtime last night. Either way, it's been one amazing comeback to watch for the Bruins. That said they should be thanking the Canadians to. Too many mistakes in front of their own net have resulted in most of the goals from games 3 and 4. I expect the Canadians to take this to game 7 as originally predicted and Boston to finish.



Next up the Chicago Blackhawks. Somewhere in Vancouver there has to be a ton of Canuck fans really starting to sweat tonight's match up. For being a team that is a ghost of their former selves from the past two seasons, they have given the Canucks another reason to doubt and fear. The team that's suppose to win the cup can't get the demons off their back and the Blackhawks are remembering how to play Blackhawk hockey. It's not just the fact Kane and Hossa have started scoring but it's the physical play. The Blackhawks are owning the boards, they are fighting in front of the net and they are showing the Canucks major playoff weakness... Roberto Luongo. I don't care if he's Vezina material and deemed one of the best goalies in today's NHL. Fact of the matter is he has yet to show up in the playoffs, even with a team as stacked like the Canucks. Even if they beat the Blackhawks this season, none of this will prove anything. Say they lose before they can even reach the conference finals then you have to question whether this core of players can win a cup. I hope tonight we can hear Chelsea Dagger running Luongo off the ice again. It will give us another set up for a classic 3-0 comeback again.

Hockey Players Are The Toughest SOB On The Planet!

Not to really bash on other sports but damn, when you put your body through this kind of punishment every other day what does that say. When is the last time you heard of a football player nearly losing one of his berries and coming back the next game, or a basketball player playing with a busted hand? Come NHL playoff time you have to admire the punishment they endure every time they step on the ice. Johan Franzen for example, busts his face early in the 1st in yesterday's game against the Coyotes. After getting 20+ stitches on his face he came right back out in the 2nd period and finished the game. Watching the interview with him on NBC I saw a man who looked like he lost a bar fight, but... as much as I hate the Red Wings, Franzen showed the grit and pride hockey players carry in their sport. I have to give him major props on that. There's only one thing to say to that...

Mans Game Bitch

The Real Manchester Team Is Moving On To The FA Final!

On the side of hockey I do have a small soft spot for soccer, mainly just for the one and only team from Manchester. Yesterday was a day for rejoice as City who's taken a lot of pain and punishment from Salford United finally stuck it to the rags in one of England's biggest stages.

The Bruins Are Down... Start The Count

Well now that the series has gone through 2 games. I thought this would be a good opportunity to look at the biggest shock so far.

For me the biggest shock has been the dominating performance the Montreal Canadians. Since the opening bell the Canadians have been throwing hay makers left and right at the Bruins and all the Bruins can do is turtle and hope they can recover. On the scoreboard, physically, mentally it's an embarrassing beat down and for a series that should go 7, it could very well go 4. So what do the Bruins do to get back into this series? First things first they need to start busting their ass to the rebounds. Most of the Canadians goals so far have just been from rebounds. The defense isn't giving Thomas help. They are letting the Canadians to just walk in with no real pressure on the shooter. At the same time Thomas isn't controlling the puck that well either. There are also times as well where it looks like the Bruins are too busy looking to hit someone, then try to make a play from it. Then on the offensive side, they have ran into a really hot Carry Price. It's amazing to have seen some of the saves he has made. Only suggestion... get traffic in front of the net. I don't see enough pressure on Boston's part. Now that the series is going back to Montreal, the Bruins better take some time to get focused and remember how they play during the regular season. They lose game 3 they might as well start practicing a golf swing and a coaching job could be up for grabs with this performance.

2011 NHL Playoffs Round 1

ACHSDU17'S 1st Round Predictions...

East

Washington Capitals vs New York Rangers - Caps in 5

I think after last season's first round departure, the Caps are going in thinking about redeeming themselves. I think the Rangers were just lucky as hell they made the playoffs and their offense is just so inconsistent. The Capitals have some major secondary scoring, a tough defense and really all the Caps need is for a mediocre performance in net and they will roll over the Rangers. Unless we see Chris Drury from his pre-ranger days, Marian Gaborik out score Ovechkin and Henrik Lundqvist just shut the door... expect a short series from a Capitals team that will want to redeem themselves from last years 1st round exit.

Flyers vs Sabers - Sabers in 6

After the dominance shown by the Flyers this season why would I choose the Sabers? The Sabers are going into the playoffs hot going 8-1-1 in the last 10 games. Ryan Miller one of the best goalies in the league today, if he gets hot there is no way you are scoring on him. They have been better on the special teams, way more consistent and the Flyers are going in a bit more beat up. Granted they Flyers have great offense and when healthy a really great defense. However, I think Buffalo has caught fire at the right time and will be my dark horse in the East.

Bruins vs. Canadians - Bruins in 7

This is going to be one hell of a street fight. This is a series you can throw stats aside, put the numbers away and just think about what these teams mean to one another. I know the Bruins on paper have a better team but do you ever roll over for your long time hated rival? After all the 911 calls to arrest Chara and the punches thrown this year I expect this to go the distance. Price will have to be the star of this series for the Canadians to win but I think Bruins have enough talent to get them by. Either way any team that gets out of this series will be coming out hurt.

Pens vs. Lightning - Lightning in 6

Both teams are running smoothly and though the Pens have been doing a great job stepping their game up they will defiantly hurt without Crosby and Malkin. Especially against a team that seems to have their crap together. If you do your homework right and make sure their secondary stars are shut down the Pens will fall. They don't have much scoring depth left. That doesn't mean Fleury can't save them though. He's a goalie you can count on in the playoffs and will give the Pens a shot. In the end I think the Pens lack of depth will get them.

West

Canucks vs. Blackhawks – Canucks in 5

As much as I’d like to see the hopes and dreams of the Canucks burn to the tune of Chelsea Dagger again I don’t think the Hawks have what it takes to bring them down this season. They were lucky to make the playoffs, they are going in with a smaller proven core, another goalie has to prove himself again and lets face it… the Canucks have the best team in the league. Only way the Hawks get past the Canucks is if Luongo screws up and though I won't put it past him, I don't think the great offensive talent nor the strong D will let that happen.

Sharks vs. Kings – Kings in 7

Even though the Sharks took down the Avs and Wings last season… I’m just not sold on them actually showing up in the playoffs.  This will be another classic California series though and it will go back and forth. The Sharks will find a great secondary scorer stepping up and matching the Kings offense. The defense for both teams will be tossing bodies left and right. However in the end I think goaltending will decide it and though Niemi won the cup last season with a great Chicago D, I have much more confidence in Jonathan Quick in net. I like to think of Quick as one of the elite goalies in the NHL and if he wins this series I think he could officially be in that spot. His time is about to come.

Red Wings vs. Coyotes Round 2 – Wings in 6

This one I have to think about more… Offense I give that to the Wings. Defense I have to give that to the Wings.  Special Teams Wings… So why is it so tough? I don’t like Howard and personally I think he’s a overrated goalie. Phoenix is not a pushover, they have some pretty decent offense with good depth, their defense is ok… but it’s Bryzgalov I would worry about. I think the Wings will overcome though and Bryzgalov will run out of gas before this series ends.

Ducks vs. Preds – Ducks in 6

The Predators have been consistent all season but since the All Star break there hasn’t been a team that has fought as hard as the Ducks. This team has become one dangerous threat in this year’s playoffs, they will continue to fight, they will continue to play their hockey and really they are my dark horse in the West. This will be a battle of the Ducks offense against the Preds strong D. Though some will say you can win with great d, if that’s all you do you can’t score. I think Corry Perry will see to that. 

Alright... Reaction! What do you think will go down in round 1?