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Community => JD Sports Forum! => Topic started by: DSJ™ on October 10, 2008, 03:52 AM

Title: NHL 2008 - 2009
Post by: DSJ™ on October 10, 2008, 03:52 AM
Well the new season of hockey is amongst us, who will be the big winner this season & take home Lord Stanley's Cup?  Not the Oilers, that's for sure.  :-X  :P

To start off this season, a truly sad time for us in Canada as the Hockey Night in Canada anthem (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4ta5MWh_bUI) which should be Canada's national anthem  ;)  ;D  will so be replaced with another theme.  :'(

It's down to 2 finalists from over 14,000 entries for the new theme.

Sticks To The Ice (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iPmjLa8LcMI)

Canadian Gold (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oIlH72xcRGM)

No matter who wins, the Hockey Night in Canada anthem (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4ta5MWh_bUI) will always be in are hearts, right Brent & Jesse.  :)

That's it for now, let's talk Hockey!

(http://www.cbc.ca/sports/indepth/doncherry/gfx/doncherry_471.jpg)
Title: Re: NHL 2008 - 2009
Post by: stormie on October 10, 2008, 10:42 AM
I've got the same big hopes for the Sharks this year. All things point to them having all the right pieces...finally, but only time will tell. They sure looked good last night thoroughly dismantling the Ducks. Good to see Cheechoo start out strong, and Nabokov, well, he should've won the Vezina last year, and he looked like he wanted to make a point.

Go Sharks!
Title: Re: NHL 2008 - 2009
Post by: Jesse James on October 15, 2008, 12:50 AM
hahaha   :D

(http://d.yimg.com/us.yimg.com/p/ap/20081015/capt.592d96c1a708470189777c036fc436ce.flyers_penguins_hockey_pagp112.jpg)
Title: Re: NHL 2008 - 2009
Post by: Rob on October 29, 2008, 06:45 PM
A buddy of mine at work has tickets up against the glass for tonight's Stars game and he needed someone to go with him.  So, if you're in Minnesota and happen to be watching the game, look for me on the TV.   ;D
Title: Re: NHL 2008 - 2009
Post by: stormie on November 5, 2008, 11:14 AM
I'm perfectly aware how early it is in the season, but I'm getting more and more excited every time I watch the Sharks play. Last week, I was utterly shocked at how they quieted the Pens (limiting them to only 11 shots...for the entire game), then a few days later clearly dominated the Wings. And last night, after a couple periods of even skating, just took control in the third and bounced the Wild. All three teams are quality, and the way the Sharks have played them has just impressed the hell out of me. They're skating fast, creating shots out of thin air, suffocating opponents and dropping the gloves when needed...all things they really haven't done in years past.

The only thing that tempers my optimism is that it's so damn early in the season.

I've already got tickets for the 12/2 game vs. the Leafs, but I really need to go sooner and more often.

Go Sharks!
Title: Re: NHL 2008 - 2009
Post by: Rob on November 14, 2008, 11:51 PM
Bye bye Barry Melrose!

 8)
Title: Re: NHL 2008 - 2009
Post by: Ryan on November 18, 2008, 11:21 PM
The Avs have been on a roll lately. I've unfortunately missed the last couple games but they are looking good tonight. They are taking too many penalties but they are doing a great job killing them off. The penalty kill was really hurting them earlier this year, so it is good to see that turning around.

Hey Jesse, do you know the story behind the Pen's baby blues? They are some goofy looking uniforms.
Title: Re: NHL 2008 - 2009
Post by: Jesse James on November 19, 2008, 04:53 PM
That's our original uniforms actually when the team was formed which, I think, was either 67 or 69?  Memory's a bit fuzzy on the year, but we were in blues at the time.  They also wore them last year for the Winter Classic...

I've had a blue Penguins jersey since the early 90's.  At the time, it was a real novelty...  The Penguine on the chest changed from a more fat bottomed Penguin to the "Rampan Penguin" they use now.  The Pens changed from blue to black because of the other teams in town.  We're either one of, or are the actual only city where all our sports teams wear the same colors.  A bit of a novelty there.

They went to black then, and then Yellow in the 80's (85 or 86 I'm thinking) but that lasted for no time.  Then they were the classic black and gold through 1992 but then in the next couple years they went to the "modern" Penguin they still wear on the shoulders of their uniforms with the Rampant Penguin on the chest...  I hated the (now old) "modern" Penguin.  Their new sweaters are sweet...  I like the blue.  Now though, everyone has blue...  I was a novelty for a couple decades though, with my sweater.  Mine's also made of a better quality than most of the retro jerseys I've seen on people since the Winter Classic last year.
Title: Re: NHL 2008 - 2009
Post by: JangoTat on November 24, 2008, 02:27 PM
I hate the Leafs now. ####ers traded Steen and carlo(injury boy) away to the Blues for some stemp-on-my-nik kid. I can live with them getting rid of carlo as I never liked him although his girlfriend was a teacher at my high school and she was quite good looking but thats a different story. But Steen!!!!!!! man he was one of our top forwards maybe not on the scoreboard but he was always working deep. oh but the guy we got from the Blue is having a great season and led his team in goals the season before..just like oh yeah Jason Blake...look at him now!!!! If they ever trade Stajan away then all hell will break loose and there will be no way for me to put up with them again.
Title: Re: NHL 2008 - 2009
Post by: Jeff on November 24, 2008, 11:53 PM
Went to my first game of the season tonight... Wild 4, Washington 3 (it was 4-0 with 7min to go in the 3rd when Ovechkin decided to make it interesting :-X).

After going to this game (and watching the Wild/Penguins game on TV a while back),  I have to admit that I reeeeaaaaaally wish we had an Ovechkin/Malkin/Semin/Crosby on our squad.  They keep telling us that Gaborik is our "big name" guy, but after seeing some of these elite Eastern guys over the last few weeks, I'm so ready for them to finally let Gabby go.   :-\
Title: Re: NHL 2008 - 2009
Post by: Paul on December 1, 2008, 04:07 PM
It is going to be sad when Football is over and I get back to watching Hockey Full time and realize the Stars are numerically eliminated from the Playoffs already...
Title: Re: NHL 2008 - 2009
Post by: stormie on December 3, 2008, 10:14 AM
Finally got out of the house to the Arena to take in a Sharks game last night. That's one scary-good team. Four goals in the first, then they just sort of set the cruise control and waited for the game to finish at 5-2. They are quick as lightning, big as anything and their defense just swarms and suffocates. I heard that with last night's win they'd tied the 1944-45 Canadiens for the best start after 25 games (43 points). Still, it's not the playoffs, but it's fun to watch. Now I just need to get out to see more games.
Title: Re: NHL 2008 - 2009
Post by: JesseVader08 on December 4, 2008, 11:51 AM
Is it just me, or is this Sean Avery thing getting blown out of proportion?  Yeah, he's a stupid ****, but how about we focus what's going on in the rink instead.
Title: Re: NHL 2008 - 2009
Post by: Jesse James on December 4, 2008, 02:45 PM
It depends...  This is one of those things where I agree that it's off-the-ice antics and by hitting him with a fine/suspension you're really sort of going outside work now, and about something that didn't hurt/harm anybody as near as I can tell.  That said, as an organization, I know I wouldn't want Sean Avery in my locker room...  Not at the start or end of the season.  I think he's a trashy guy.  I feel similarly about him as I do Marty McSorely or any other myriad of players I've just never cared for.

At the same time, and few Penguins really commented on it so it was tough to get a remark/opinion around here from the pros, but Jordan Staal basically said that you are supposedly old/mature enough to know when you're crossing a line, and that Avery is the only guy who ever needs told by everyone, "you crossed the line".  I agree with that....  He's like the annoying ******* on any given reality show.  Since the people he's agitating can't really get back at him for what he said, I'm sorta glad he got suspended.  My only thought against the suspension is that it's a limit of someone's personal freedom of speech...  Still though, my own job holds me to certain standards outside the workplace...  So why shouldn't everyone else deal with that, especially if they're a pro athlete?  I guess my ultimately opinion is I agree it's something he deserved and got, but I know what the other camp is getting at for sure.
Title: Re: NHL 2008 - 2009
Post by: Jesse James on December 5, 2008, 10:34 AM
Crosby's been a holy terror of late...  A hat trick the other night, now a 4 point night setting up everyone else...  Semin made some remarks, but if he can't see the greatness at this point, he is simply pissed off he didn't land on a good team.  :)
Title: Re: NHL 2008 - 2009
Post by: Jeff on December 11, 2008, 10:03 AM
I really hope Sakic comes back for at least one more year. He is my all-time favorite athlete in any sport and I think he has a few more years left in him.

I thought of you Ryan when I read this story (http://sports.yahoo.com/nhl/blog/puck_daddy/post/In-the-battle-of-snowblower-vs-Joe-Sakic-snowb?urn=nhl,128200) today.   :D
Title: Re: NHL 2008 - 2009
Post by: Ryan on December 11, 2008, 10:58 AM
:'(

Yeah it has been kind of a rough year for Sakic (and the Avs). I'm glad he will make a full recovery.. but it really sucks he is going to be out another three months. I really hope he plays a 21st year. He can't end his career like this (barring some miraculous Cup run). :(
Title: Re: NHL 2008 - 2009
Post by: Jesse James on December 11, 2008, 09:15 PM
I'm not one to usually feel bad for opponents, but I'm feeling bad for the Islanders right now...  It's almost embarassing and there's a period left to go.  The Penguins are pissed off tonight and it's apparant.  I just hope this game doesn't get ugly violent because I really don't want us to lose anyone to injury just because the other team decides they've got nothing to lose.
Title: Re: NHL 2008 - 2009
Post by: JesseVader08 on December 19, 2008, 12:28 AM
So Sundin has finally signed... with Vancouver.  It should be interesting to see how long it takes him to get back into game shape.
Title: Re: NHL 2008 - 2009
Post by: Paul on December 31, 2008, 08:55 AM
Sean Avery leaves and the Stars start playing better... too late to save this season, but still good news.  We've got some good young talent.
Title: Re: NHL 2008 - 2009
Post by: Jesse James on December 31, 2008, 12:59 PM
I wonder who the Pens need to send away to save theirs? :)

Right now I think it's less who we send away, and more who we sign on...  Namely any forward with strength and grit, because once we lost Ruutu, Robers, Laraque, and to a lesser degree Armstrong, I knew the Penguins were going to have a ******** time the following season.  We lost everything that energized our offense with power, pain, and hard work.  Proof you can have superstars out the ying yang and they don't carry your team for a full season.

Not to mention our PP sucks PP right now because we lost both our anchors on the blue line and only NOW is Whitney even close to coming back with Gonchar still a long ways off.
Title: Re: NHL 2008 - 2009
Post by: DSJ™ on January 6, 2009, 03:05 AM
I interrupt your regular NHL schedule...

So like how aboot that team Canada eh!  ;D   8)   :P   :-*

Canada wins fifth straight gold at world juniors (http://www.ctv.ca/servlet/ArticleNews/story/CTVNews/20090105/world_juniors_090105/20090105?hub=CTVNewsAt11)

I now return you to your regular NHL schedule.  :P
Title: Re: NHL 2008 - 2009
Post by: DSJ™ on January 14, 2009, 04:08 AM
Oilers offence wakes up in Washington (http://www.cbc.ca/canada/edmonton/story/2009/01/13/cole-oilers-capitals.html)

Oilers break 12-year drought in Washington (http://www.edmontonsun.com/Sports/Oilers/2009/01/13/8014156.html)

12 fricken' years to win a game in Washington. ::)
Title: Re: NHL 2008 - 2009
Post by: Jesse James on January 14, 2009, 02:05 PM
Wow, that's odd...  They haven't played them much I'm guessing either though.  Washington eats turds generally, even with Semen (heh) and Ovechkin on their team.  Congrats, because, well, Washington sucks. :)

The Penguins won against Philly last night.  Yay for finally getting a win against a decent team!  Rumor in Pittsburgh is Stall's days are numbered as a Pen, and the contract signing is just so he can be shopped more easily.
Title: Re: NHL 2008 - 2009
Post by: Ryan on January 14, 2009, 04:52 PM
We'll take him. :)

That is somewhat of an odd stat there Dale. The Avs just had a similiar one actually. In the first seven years Columbus was a team the Avs lost all of three games to them, this season they have already lost the first three of four. ::)

It really has been an odd season here so far, very much like it is on a rollercoaster.  We have had a lot of good games, against good teams too. And there have been a lot of little stretches where it looks like we might have figured everything out. Then we'll have a few games where everything just goes to hell. ::) Injuries can't be blamed for all of it, but they certainly haven't helped. Sakic, Stastny, Foote, and Lapperierre have all been out for extended lengths of time. It is great to se Wolski step up and fill in at center. He should have been playing the position the entire time he has been in Denver...

I made it to my first game of the season last week, against Chicago. It was agreat 2-1 game and was a whole lot of fun to be at. We had some great lower deck seats and I finally got a jersey (Foote). All of the action seemed like it was right below us. I'm going to the Calgary game this Sunday. Hopefully the Avs can pull it off. I might get to see Toronto and Montreal in the next month too. :)
Title: Re: NHL 2008 - 2009
Post by: Jesse James on January 15, 2009, 01:09 AM
Unless you've got a proven winger right now, and a couple younger guys who are showing some grit and tenacity at forward, I don't think they'd bite.  The Penguins are hurting though.  They got beat by Washington tonight simply by physically being outplayed all game, and tons of injuries to boot...  It doesn't help that the refs were calling the most stupid game I've witnessed all year either, and that they were just sorta looking for trouble and had itchy whistle fingers too.

Lame game, lame loss, and lame all around.  The Penguins lost way too much work ethic when they gave up Malone, Roberts, Ruutu, Laraque (not a hard worker, but not someone to f with), Armstrong...  I'd give up Satan, Foote, Latang, and a draft pick for Malone or Armstrong (+ a 3rd round pick) back. :(
Title: Re: NHL 2008 - 2009
Post by: Jesse James on January 20, 2009, 10:02 PM
All I want to say is, in the midst of this Steelers greatness, the Penguins suck and they so desperately need to lose this dead weight they picked up in the off season... Satan would be a good start.  Worthless, worthless players need to go...

I'm just pissed.  They really need to cut loose some people though at this point.
Title: Re: NHL 2008 - 2009
Post by: Ryan on January 20, 2009, 10:40 PM
I made it to my second game Avs of the season this Sunday, they played Calgary. We had upper deck seats in the corner (which are still pretty good seats). It was such a blast. The Avs won 6-2 (it was 5-2 but they added the sixth goal with 0.5 seconds left on the clock). I'm glad the Avs finally won one against Calgary this season, we were 0-4 against them at this point. And we had just dropped three games last week we could have/should have/needed to win, so it was important to get a win against a good division club.

Even more special though we got to see both Ryan Smyth and Milan Hejduk score their 300th career goals. It was only the second time in NHL history that two teammates have both scored their 300th in the same game. Even better they were both on the net right below us. Smyth's was a really nice looking shorthanded goal and Hedjuk added his on the powerplay a few minutes later. It is pretty special to have seen history like that. I'm going to remeber that game for a long time. :)
Title: Re: NHL 2008 - 2009
Post by: DSJ™ on January 28, 2009, 03:17 AM
The Buffalo Sabres sure kicked the Oilers asses, 10-2.  ::)

Why even show up for the game.  :P
Title: Re: NHL 2008 - 2009
Post by: Jesse James on January 28, 2009, 12:38 PM
Wow...  Double digits.  Yikes.
Title: Re: NHL 2008 - 2009
Post by: DSJ™ on January 29, 2009, 05:26 AM
Wow...  Double digits.  Yikes.

Yikes is right & the funny thing is the Oiler fans were chanting for double digits for the Sabres. That's letting the Oilers know the fans were pissed, well whatever fans that stayed to the end of the game slaughter.
Title: Re: NHL 2008 - 2009
Post by: Jesse James on January 29, 2009, 01:30 PM
I can't say Steelers fans chant for bad stuff like that, but when the Steelers screw up the fans of this city let them know it.  They can even be winning but if the Steelers let up something stupid like a special teams runback or something, you'll hear booing despite the score.

Penguins fans are similar about passing...  that's been a pet peeve around this city since the early 90's.  Penguins love to play with the puck and not shoot for some reason.  Though, last night's 6 to 2 win over NYR was a nice thing to see.

If you NHL fans haven't seen it, there were two gorgeous goals.  Check out Crosby's backhander to end the game, but also check out Letang's beautiful Paul Coffey-style end-to-end goal.  It almost brought a tear to my eye, it was so incredible.
Title: Re: NHL 2008 - 2009
Post by: Jesse James on February 3, 2009, 12:34 AM
Well, Football's done so now it's onto Hockey...  Needless to say I'm sad to see football go.  The Penguins eat turds this year, and it's from the top down.  Crosby and Malkin are just on auto pilot it seems, and the rest of the team looks like poop.

Fleury is sometimes the only guy showing up to play, it's really quite sad.  :(

Tyler Kennedy's suspended for coming off the bench to fight the other night...  At least he was fired up and pissed off.  The rest of the team should take some notes from him since at least he tried to do something.   :-\  Finals last year, and maybe won't even make the playoffs in '09...  ****.  I like to maintain hope and all, but...  well, I'll still watch the playoffs regardless what happens. 
Title: Re: NHL 2008 - 2009
Post by: Jesse James on February 5, 2009, 10:49 PM
Well there was a bright spot to Penguin's hockey last night.  Comeing back on Tampa from being down 3-0 to win 4-3 in OT.  That was a great game, but I don't know if that'll turn them around.  They still have too many weights dragging the team down I think.  Satan, I really hoped he'd perk up in a city with young talent, but I really think he's just a guy who never really lived up to any of the hype he had at this point.  I'm very disappointed in his performance...  The Penguins just lost way too much in the off-season though, to rebound...  All their grit is young kids from Wilkes-Barre/Scranton at this point, but I love guys like Kennedy when they come up.  They're just fun to watch play!

Anyway, fun game last night...  I hope they can at least get their act together now till the playoffs and maybe back into the post-season or something.  I'm expecting a huge trade before the deadline.
Title: Re: NHL 2008 - 2009
Post by: DSJ™ on February 6, 2009, 03:42 AM
Hey, the Oilers beat the Blues 2-1 in a shoot out... hold me the **** back!
Title: Re: NHL 2008 - 2009
Post by: DSJ™ on February 8, 2009, 07:44 AM
Oilers are off to a good start again, 8-3 for Detroit.  ::)
Title: Re: NHL 2008 - 2009
Post by: Ryan on February 8, 2009, 06:25 PM
At least we're not the only team in the division stinking it up lately... :-X
Title: Re: NHL 2008 - 2009
Post by: JangoTat on February 8, 2009, 06:56 PM
lol im sorry but the oilers are a joke. They still in 8th or did the Canucks win last night put them ahead?

I was actually suprised with how good the leafs played against the Habs.our goaltending is still horrible but toskala was able to hold out...for once. But then again the Habs have been having a rough stretch since the All Star game. Sucks too because Im rooting for them to get the Cup. :-\
Title: Re: NHL 2008 - 2009
Post by: stormie on February 11, 2009, 10:33 AM
Nice win by the Sharks last night over the Bruins. I'm glad it was on Versus, so more people outside the West Coast can see how good the Sharks are. Marleau is an absolute stud.
Title: Re: NHL 2008 - 2009
Post by: DSJ™ on February 11, 2009, 10:56 AM
lol im sorry but the oilers are a joke. They still in 8th or did the Canucks win last night put them ahead?

Right now Vancouver is in 7th & the Oilers ar 10th.

In the Northwest Division we are 4th & the Avalanche... bottom.   :-X

At least we're better than where the Ilanders are standing.  ::)

Hey, we play the Hab's here tonight. This should be interesting.  ::)
Title: Re: NHL 2008 - 2009
Post by: DSJ™ on February 12, 2009, 01:17 AM
Oilers 7, Habs 2.  :o
Title: Re: NHL 2008 - 2009
Post by: Jesse James on February 12, 2009, 01:28 AM
A big thanks to any West Coast team that beats any East Coast team...  except the Penguins. ;)

Speaking of which, good game with the Sharks tonight.  It actually looked like playoff hockey going on!  I just hope the Penguins can keep it up.  Lots of rumors here about who's likely to go at the trade deadline.  I'm thinking Staal's days as a Pen are numbered, as his production isn't going up and was expected to.  I think Satan's obviously on his way out, but who would want him?

There's lots of speculating though...  Nothing likely till the deadline though.  Pens need a big proven scorer right now though.  I'd personally not mind giving up Ryan Whitney too, for something decent, as Whitney's a proven two-way defenseman, and we're pretty deep with those (3) at the moment.  I think Letange is a proven big league guy, so Whitney becomes expendable to me once Gonchar's back.  I would like to see Fedetenko and Sykora stay, maybe Scuderi is expendable...  I don't think Max Talbot is personally and I'd give up Staal if the deal were sweet enough before him (but Staal should earn a LOT for the Penguins in trade).

Right now they're in 10th, looking from the outside, so they gotta get their **** together here.
Title: Re: NHL 2008 - 2009
Post by: DSJ™ on February 15, 2009, 12:19 AM
On a roll, Oilers beat the Kings in a shoot out (3-2).
Title: Re: NHL 2008 - 2009
Post by: Jesse James on February 16, 2009, 01:42 AM
Penguins fired Therrien today after yet another embarassing loss to Toronto this year.  Rumors amongst the locals are that Whitney and Staal are the first two likely on the chopping block if anyone winds up on it.  The baby Pens coach from out East is coming to coach the Penguins in the interim I guess.

Something needed done but I'm not sure it was Therrien's fault.  My only gripe with him is his seemingly lacking enthusiasm...  I don't know if he's inspiring the team or what.  Beyond that I think the Penguin's problems are more or less poor play from key guys like Satan, Whitney, Gill, etc.  When you look at what was lost over the Summer, they basically lost all their character guys with leadership qualities...  Malone, Roberts, Armstrong, Hossa (lead by his play more than being vocal), etc.  Now we've got guys like Satan who doesn't want to clean up his own end ever, and defenseman who just seem not into playing actual hockey.

Crosby strikes me as a Lemieux clone so I dno't really see him firing the guys up either...  Malkin barely speaks the language still...  The leadership was in guys like Malone and co., and Talbot, but he can't do it all himself.
Title: Re: NHL 2008 - 2009
Post by: JangoTat on February 16, 2009, 09:12 AM
Just be happy you dont have to watch your team lose almost every other game like the Leafs have and still be promised the cup every year lol ;) heck we have been in the "rebuilding" stage since the lockout which I find to be their crappy excuse because we havent even made it to the playoffs since the lockout lol.
Title: Re: NHL 2008 - 2009
Post by: Jesse James on February 16, 2009, 12:40 PM
It hurts just as bad to make it to the finals last year, and so far wer'e not looking too swift to even make the playoffs this year, hah.  Therrien's gone, maybe that'll change things, but I really personally didn't think he was the problem...  They're getting a more vocal guy in though, so maybe it'll light a fire under the asses of those who seem apathetic about it all.
Title: Re: NHL 2008 - 2009
Post by: DSJ™ on February 17, 2009, 12:11 AM
Oilers 3, Phoenix 1. Slowly climbing the ladder.   :P
Title: Re: NHL 2008 - 2009
Post by: Jesse James on March 4, 2009, 12:26 AM
It's always fun watching who goes to waivers this time of year...  Satan went for the Pens, which one would assume is to free up cap space.  Otherwise why not trade the guy?  Seems something may be up there...  Saw Roberts went for Tampa too, who may be moving some people.  Less than 24 hours to go.
Title: Re: NHL 2008 - 2009
Post by: Jeff on March 4, 2009, 03:29 PM
Huh.  It appears as though my beloved Wild did nothing today, which I guess is a good thing.  Maybe?

Yesterday, instead of trading Backstrom at the deadline, we actually convinced him to forego free agency and stay here - 4 years, $25+mil.  I can honestly say I didn't see that one coming.  With Gabby's injury making him basically untradable, I thought Backstrom is the piece they'd move...

Which brings up Gabby.  When Backstrom didn't get traded and got signed instead, I thought that was a BIG hint that they had something lined up trading Gaborik after all instead.... but nope.  The deadline has passed and nothing on trading Gaborik yet. 

Huh.  I was really expecting at least one (if not both) of those guys to be gone by the afternoon, but I guess not.  Looks like the Wild are serious about trying to stay in the hunt for that 7th/8th spot in the West.
Title: Re: NHL 2008 - 2009
Post by: Jesse James on March 5, 2009, 02:56 PM
I expected more than happened.  I didn't think we'd get Guerrin for, at worst(best?), a 3rd round pick.  I don't know much about the other guy we picked up, but Guerrin I'm hoping isn't another Satan...  I think we need more of an ugly power forward than finesse, so I'm happier with this than Satan, but still the age thing is a concern and his performance this year wasn't great...  Still, he's the second scorer on the Isles I think, which is hardly a stat of pride.

Regardless though, the deal was outstanding for what it was.  We didn't give up anything really to get Guerrin, so it's really not a gamble at all.

I'm excited for the game tonight.  Kunitz has fit perfectly in the games he's been in uniform so far, so I'm excited to see how Guerrin slots in there now.
Title: Re: NHL 2008 - 2009
Post by: Jesse James on March 9, 2009, 03:58 AM
Pens have been on a tear, and it felt oh so good today watching them beat Washington.  Philly is a rival, but the true hate lies with our old-time rivalry with Washington.  They've had the upper hand this year, but today the Penguins made a much better showing and at times even dominated Washington...  It was interesting watching a healthy, rolling, Pens team go against a healthy Caps team.  And my god do they truly have hate for each other.

I love rivalries, but right now I don't think there's two teams in the league that have distaste for each other like these two do.  It's spilling into the media, at least between the top 4 forwards between the two teams. 

Guerrin looked good with Crosby...  They meshed well early, which is great.  Kunitz and Guerrin were excellent acquisitions.
Title: Re: NHL 2008 - 2009
Post by: Morgbug on March 9, 2009, 11:49 AM


I love rivalries, but right now I don't think there's two teams in the league that have distaste for each other like these two do.  It's spilling into the media, at least between the top 4 forwards between the two teams. 


Calgary - Edmonton. 

Toronto - Ottawa. 

Granted neither of those have the high profile stars at the moment like the Caps-Pens, but I'd say those rivalries are more hotly contested on a consistent basis.  Pencentric buffoon.   :P
Title: Re: NHL 2008 - 2009
Post by: DSJ™ on March 9, 2009, 12:00 PM
Calgary - Edmonton. 

Back in the day yes, 80's & early 90's but the rivalry cooled off tho just for awhile, mid 2000 me thinks.

But you won't see a rivalry like it was back then tho. Ahhh, those were the days.  ;D
Title: Re: NHL 2008 - 2009
Post by: Jesse James on March 9, 2009, 02:38 PM
I agree they have rivalries, as everyone's got someone on their ****list.  And the old school rivalries are great ones for sure, but at the moment I don't think anything's at the intensity level of the Pens/Caps.

Calgary and Edmonton could heat up with a meeting in the playoffs though, for certain.  I think there's a mutual Boston/Montreal hatred that could heat up then as well, and a NJ/NYR one that could definitely heat up considering NYR picked up everyone's favorite douche Avery again... 

Right now though the Pens/Caps aren't just a rivalry between teams, it's really pure hatred with **** talking about each other's players by both sides.  It's been going on all year and you don't see that often in the NHL (the **** talking anyway) like it has been this year.  I guess the Caps office are trying desperately to keep Penguin fans from getting tickets too, as we've dominated their home for decades, and now that they actually can win and some people in their area want to see them play, they are upset we're still trying to come down and **** with them. ;D

I think the other rivalries could get warm come the playoffs, but I still argue nothing's quite on the level of Pens/Caps at the moment.

Ottawa/Toronto doesn't count by the way.  They're not making the playoffs and I don't even think they care when they play one another, or anyone else for that matter.  :P
Title: Re: NHL 2008 - 2009
Post by: sharke on March 29, 2009, 07:17 PM
just to throw it out there....
Go Sharks!
Title: Re: NHL 2008 - 2009
Post by: Paul on March 29, 2009, 11:10 PM
The Stars are out of it...

We went to the game last night...that Ribeiro's goal was nothing short of amazing.  Worth a trip to Youtube for sure.

The team however plays without heart.  Marty Turco really needs to find another place to play.  He is GREAT off the field, gives more to the community than any other player on the team, but right now, the community would like another Stanley Cup...it has been 10 years.

Title: Re: NHL 2008 - 2009
Post by: sharke on March 30, 2009, 02:21 PM
The Stars are out of it...

We went to the game last night...that Ribeiro's goal was nothing short of amazing.  Worth a trip to Youtube for sure.

The team however plays without heart.  Marty Turco really needs to find another place to play.  He is GREAT off the field, gives more to the community than any other player on the team, but right now, the community would like another Stanley Cup...it has been 10 years.




but I thought all those problems were the result of Avery..... ;D
Title: Re: NHL 2008 - 2009
Post by: Paul on March 30, 2009, 06:48 PM
Jesse James had me convinced it was T.O.....
Title: Re: NHL 2008 - 2009
Post by: Jesse James on March 30, 2009, 07:48 PM
 ;D

Nah, just his NHL equivalent (if there is one, Avery's probably the closest to it).
Title: Re: NHL 2008 - 2009
Post by: sharke on March 30, 2009, 08:45 PM
;D

Nah, just his NHL equivalent (if there is one, Avery's probably the closest to it).


bah! Avery is closer to Rodman
Title: Re: NHL 2008 - 2009
Post by: DSJ™ on April 3, 2009, 11:50 AM
Oilers suck & MacTavish blows as a coach! Edmonton appears to be heading out of the playoff picture for a 3rd straight campaign.  ::)

Foooooooooooooooooooooooooooooouuuuuuuuuuuuuuuurrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr!  (http://www.cheesebuerger.de/images/smilie/sportlich/e025.gif)
Title: Re: NHL 2008 - 2009
Post by: stormie on April 3, 2009, 03:52 PM
Dale, if it's any consolation, I watched the game last night and Edmonton should've won. Pucks were ringing off the Shark's bar so often it sounded like a casino. The Oilers did everything right last night, but sometimes even that doesn't mean a win or point.
Title: Re: NHL 2008 - 2009
Post by: Paul on April 3, 2009, 04:52 PM
Oilers suck & MacTavish blows as a coach! Edmonton appears to be heading out of the playoff picture for a 3rd straight campaign.  ::)

Foooooooooooooooooooooooooooooouuuuuuuuuuuuuuuurrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr!  (http://www.cheesebuerger.de/images/smilie/sportlich/e025.gif)

Perhaps they could play the Stars in some sort of Stanley Cup of Golf....
Title: Re: NHL 2008 - 2009
Post by: Ryan on April 3, 2009, 05:06 PM
Oilers suck & MacTavish blows as a coach! Edmonton appears to be heading out of the playoff picture for a 3rd straight campaign.  ::)

Foooooooooooooooooooooooooooooouuuuuuuuuuuuuuuurrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr!  (http://www.cheesebuerger.de/images/smilie/sportlich/e025.gif)

At least they aren't playing for the first overall pick at this point... :-X
Title: Re: NHL 2008 - 2009
Post by: DSJ™ on April 8, 2009, 10:00 AM
Oilers are done for a 3rd straight season... bunch of ******* numpty's!  ::)

Foooooooooooooooooooooooooooooouuuuuuuuuuuuuuuurrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr!  (http://www.cheesebuerger.de/images/smilie/sportlich/e025.gif)
Title: Re: NHL 2008 - 2009
Post by: Jesse James on April 8, 2009, 01:48 PM
Numpty's?  Hahahaha   :D

Pens locked their playoff spot last night against the Lightning but they let the Lightning back into it after a 4-0 lead.  Ugh.

Either way Malkin built a couple points onto his lead.  Ovechkin got really close, so Malkin needs to step that **** up.

Crosby had 2 PP goals, very nice...  His breakaway was a highlight reel goal.
Title: Re: NHL 2008 - 2009
Post by: Ryan on April 12, 2009, 09:25 PM
The regular season is now officially over. Playoff predictions anyone?

1st Round:

  West:
 
    San Jose over Anaheim in 6
    Detroit over Columbus in 5
    Vancouver over St. Louis in 6
    Calgary over Chicago in 5

  East:

    Boston over Montreal in 4
    Washington over New York in 5
    New Jersey over Carolina in 5
    Philadelphia over Pittsburgh in 7 (Sorry Jesse)

2nd Round

  West:

    San Jose over Calgary in 6
    Vancouver over Detroit in 7

  East:

    Boston over Philadelphia in 6
    Washington over New Jersey in 5

Conference Finals:

  West:

    Vancouver over San Jose in 6

  East:

    Washington over Boston in 5

Stanley Cup Finals

    Vancouver over Washington in 6



It is really weird thinking the playoffs are coming up and the Avs aren't going to be in them. I don't even get Vs. on DirectTV so I won't get to watch much playoff hockey this year. :(

I'll bet Jesse is looking forward to that first round matchup. That should be a really good series.
Title: Re: NHL 2008 - 2009
Post by: Jesse James on April 13, 2009, 02:34 AM
I think the PEnguins can tear up anyone, but Philly obviously gets lots of attention.  Honestly our biggest rivals are Washington, but I was in many heated debates with Philly kids at both PSU and other more local campuses I hung out at and played hockey at in my younger days. ;)

I used to play in a league near a college fairly close to where I live, lots of Philly kids there including a couple teams of almost all Philly kids, and those games always got fun right around this time of year.  ::)

I bet Cable can't control the PSWCS right now! :P
Title: Re: NHL 2008 - 2009
Post by: stormie on April 13, 2009, 12:58 PM
I'm really looking forward to the playoffs, and as always, hoping/praying for the best for the Sharks.

Here's my biased prediction:

First Round

Boston over Montreal
Washington over Rangers
Carolina over Devils
Philadelphia over Pens

Sharks over Ducks
Columbus over Wings
Blues over Vancouver
Chicago over Calgary

Second round

Carolina over Boston
Washington over Philadelphia

San Jose over Columbus
Chicago over Blues

Conference Finals

Washington over Carolina

San Jose over Chicago

Cup Finals

San Jose over Washington
Title: Re: NHL 2008 - 2009
Post by: Jeff on April 13, 2009, 01:11 PM
I'll join Dale and Ryan on the "my team sucks" bench...

- No playoffs
- Lemaire is gone
- Gaborik is almost definitely gone

Not only did the season end on a sour note, but thanks to the last two reasons listed above, we're probably going to suck again next year.  I suppose there is always a chance we could spend the Gabby money on 1-2 guys who can score instead, but I'm not holding my breath.

Title: Re: NHL 2008 - 2009
Post by: Ryan on April 13, 2009, 02:36 PM
I'll join Dale and Ryan on the "my team sucks" bench...

What a great showing from the Northwest teams this year, eh? :-X
Title: Re: NHL 2008 - 2009
Post by: DSJ™ on April 13, 2009, 02:48 PM
I'll join Dale and Ryan on the "my team sucks" bench...

What a great showing from the Northwest teams this year, eh? :-X

Ahh yeah.  :-\
Title: Re: NHL 2008 - 2009
Post by: DSJ™ on April 15, 2009, 08:00 PM
Oilers suck & MacTavish blows as a coach! 

Oiler coach Craig MacTavish fired after team fails to make NHL playoffs (http://www.google.com/hostednews/canadianpress/article/ALeqM5idwUqnG2QvGbCXVXWdgvcKfhmakg)

Quote
Craig MacTavish is no longer the head coach of the Edmonton Oilers.

Today Oilers general manager Steve Tambellini announced MacTavish had been relieved of his coaching duties after nine seasons behind the bench.

He had one year left on his contract.
Title: Re: NHL 2008 - 2009
Post by: Paul on April 15, 2009, 10:45 PM
I don't care that I don't have a Team in the Cup Playoffs.... this is one of my favorite times of year.  At least 2 games a night (it was so much better when ESPN had the NHL and I could watch every game).

Versus is in HD now on my Verizon Fios so that was good. 

JJ has to be happy to see that much scoring in the first game.
Title: Re: NHL 2008 - 2009
Post by: Jesse James on April 16, 2009, 12:55 AM
I'm ecstatic but it's early...  **** the Flyers though.  They played like a bunch of goons tonight and lost like they deserved.  I thought I was watching the Chiefs there for a little while.  ::)  All the slashing going on, and nothing like sticking the knees out to try and end some careers.  What a disgrace on ice tonight.  Even the local announcers started bitching about it and they never really complain or cite intentional efforts to hurt people often, but boy they sure did tonight.

Our game was a sell out again of course, but outside they put up a big screen and in the 40 (and dropping) degree weather several thousand people went to sit in lawn chairs and watch.  One guy brought an old 50's style hand-crank air raid siren to grind when we scored...  Classic. :)

Gotta love it...  Hockey in Pittsburgh at this time of year is a great thing.

"It's a great day for hockey!" - "Badger" Bob Johnson
Title: Re: NHL 2008 - 2009
Post by: Jeff on April 16, 2009, 02:41 PM
Oiler coach Craig MacTavish fired after team fails to make NHL playoffs (http://www.google.com/hostednews/canadianpress/article/ALeqM5idwUqnG2QvGbCXVXWdgvcKfhmakg)

In addition to our very good coach deciding to leave because the stupid young players stopped listening to him, today we find out that our owner has decided not to renew our GM's contract (http://wild.nhl.com/team/app/?service=page&page=NewsPage&articleid=418626).

So, we'll be headed into 2009/10 with a brand new GM, a brand new coach, and probably a whole new direction for the team.  Man, I hope we don't suck...  :-\
Title: Re: NHL 2008 - 2009
Post by: Ryan on April 16, 2009, 06:59 PM
Our GM was also let go (http://avalanche.nhl.com/team/app?articleid=418070&page=NewsPage&service=page) last week. Coach Granato's future is also kind of up in the air, and then there is of course the nornaml question of whether Sakic will return, and I've heard questions about Foote's retirement as well. I think it is going to be a long road back to the top... :(
Title: Re: NHL 2008 - 2009
Post by: JesseVader08 on April 17, 2009, 12:47 PM
Bruins 4   Canadiens 2

I love defeating Montreal.  8)
Title: Re: NHL 2008 - 2009
Post by: Jesse James on April 20, 2009, 07:54 PM
Montreal looked like **** in that game too.

The Pens didn't look outstanding in their last game either but at least kept it somewhat competitive...  I can't believe all the people bitching about the officiating from Game 2 in the series though.  Typical.
Title: Re: NHL 2008 - 2009
Post by: Jesse James on April 27, 2009, 02:11 AM
Boy am I glad we're out of that series...  Penguins didn't look outstanding, certainly not for 60 minutes in most of the games anyway (Game 1 was pretty great though), and honestly I can't stand Philly for the most part...  I was glad to see the Penguins get a fire lit under their asses after Talbot (or as he's known locally, "superstar") took one for the team and then he mockingly shushed the crowd...  That was hysterical and barely anyone talked about it. :)

Nice to have a couple nights where I'm not biting my nails off though.  I need the lack of anxiety. ;D
Title: Re: NHL 2008 - 2009
Post by: stormie on April 30, 2009, 06:04 PM
Time to revise my picks. I sucked in the first round and the Sharks choked on a chicken duck bone.

First Round

Boston over Montreal
Washington over Rangers
Carolina over Devils
Philadelphia over Pens

Sharks over Ducks
Columbus over Wings
Blues over Vancouver
Chicago over Calgary

Second round

Carolina over Boston
Washington over Pens

Ducks over Red Wings
Chicago over Vancouver

Conference Finals

Washington over Carolina

Chicago over Ducks

Cup Finals

Chicago over Washington


Also, as far as the Sharks choking yet again in the playoffs, well, I'm frustrated as hell. However, I'm getting tired of all the local fair-weather fans that I hear and read that are saying that they won't watch the Sharks anymore, etc. It's especially irritating when they say that they've waited 17 years! Um, 17 years is nothing. They should talk to some Leafs fans. The Sharks will be back, and they'll break through eventually.

Can't wait for the Wings-Ducks and the Pens-Caps series. Those should be good ones.
Title: Re: NHL 2008 - 2009
Post by: Jeff on May 6, 2009, 05:28 PM
Hamilton Coyotes (http://www.tsn.ca/columnists/bob_mckenzie/?id=277696)?   Think it will stick this time or will Balsillie be as successful here as he was at trying to move the Predators north a few years ago?   :P

It sure seemed like things were settled to keep the Coyotes in Phoenix, then along comes the crazy Canuck - Bettman is probably someplace fuming right about now.  His choices are to give in and let the Coyotes move to Canada (potentially pissing off Ottawa and Toronto in the process) or reject the move, which would force the bankrupt Coyotoes owners to take far far less for the team (reportedly 50% less) from someone else who intends on keeping them in the south-west (Jerry Reinsdorf).
Title: Re: NHL 2008 - 2009
Post by: JesseVader08 on May 7, 2009, 01:12 AM
I LOVE the idea of another team coming to Canda, it's been too long that we've been losing teams.  But I wonder how viable another one would be in southern Ontario.  Although since the Leafs have been struggling for a number of years, perhaps fans would be willing to give a new team a chance?
Title: Re: NHL 2008 - 2009
Post by: Jesse James on May 7, 2009, 01:35 AM
I like the idea of them not going to Ontario, but going to Canada somewhere like Winnipeg or some other god forsaken hole.  (hehe, j/k...  sorta)
Title: Re: NHL 2008 - 2009
Post by: Ryan on May 7, 2009, 01:35 AM
Have they talked about returning the team to Winnipeg at all? Ontario already has two teams, it doesn't seem like it would be a good idea to put a third in the Provence and fracture that market even more.
Title: Re: NHL 2008 - 2009
Post by: Jesse James on May 7, 2009, 01:42 AM
Not to mention that neither team in Ontario is doing too swiftly these days...  I know Toronto's fan-base is die-hard and Ottawa should be too simply because of location, but I thought I read that it wasn't as rock solid...  I could be wrong on that. 

Also there's Buffalo there too and I know a lot of Canucks who root for them because they're closer to the Buffalo area and it's easier to get to games there...  You'd be fracturing that fanbase a bit too I think.
Title: Re: NHL 2008 - 2009
Post by: Morgbug on May 7, 2009, 11:46 AM
Time to weigh in on this one. 

First, if Balsillie wants it in Southern Ontario, I say let him.  It's his money and frankly I see it doing better there than anywhere else in Canada.  Shocked I'd say that?  Yeah, me too.  They have the population base there to support it and it is in the Canada/northern US region where hockey is loved, understood and played so I'd have a hard time seeing it end up in the same attendance zone as Phoenix or Carolina or wherever else they are blowing the attendance stats totally out of proportion.  Nothing I hate more than someone citing the "average attendance" for an arena at 15,000 and when I look in on a game they'd be lucky to be pushing 5K.  There's lots of teams with good attendance and there's a handful (or two) whose numbers are blown totally out of reality. 

Problematically you have Toronto, Ottawa, Buffalo and Detroit all in the region.  Do you really need another team there?  No.  But.... Toronto, no matter how craptastic they are (and I love them for sucking that badly - 1967 baby) is always a sellout.  There was some contention of them getting a second team a few months ago and realistically I could see them supporting it.  The population of rabid fans is there.  I don't think that Ottawa (too far a drive in the wrong direction) would be impacted, nor would Detroit because of their fan base strength.  Buffalo might be the most serious issue, but I don't know how many Canadian folks travel south for games. 

Other Canadian markets?  Don't know where else to put them.  Not anywhere in the Maritimes, the population base just isn't there and I suspect the east coast is too blue collar to spring $150+ for good seats 42 times a year.  Calgary, Edmonton and Vancouver all have teams.  Regina/Saskatoon ain't going to pull it off.  There just aren't enough people and that blue collar mentality is too prevalent for the current price range.  I don't think Kelowna could pull it off either due to population base issues though they'd probably more readily pay to see the games than lots of other Canadians.  So the only real options aside from Southern Ontario would be Quebec City or Winnipeg.  I assume they're similar in many respects. 

Winnipeg, while not as much of a hole as Pittsburgh, is a nice choice for a number of reasons.  I'd certainly give us the nod over Quebec City in terms of the number of bitter, angry, never letting go of the former team fans.  It is stunning to live here and see how often the issue of the Jets coming back is raised.  Part of that is that we definitely got shafted in many ways by Bettman when the Jets left and it was pretty much never a choice of the Jets remaining here in his mind.  No matter whether an owner stepped up or not, that team was going to Phoenix.  At the same time, there are major issues with Winnipeg getting a franchise again.  The major one is we don't have a big, deep pockets owner willing to step up like Balsillie.  Without that it is a non-starter and Balsillie could care less about Winnipeg. 

Winnipeg also fits into that "blue collar" price range I mentioned earlier.  All those rabid, never let go types are still expecting to pay $40 for the reds and get the 7-11 tickets in the upper deck for $8.  That's not realistic anymore and time doesn't stand still.  The pricing is probably going to be $150 at a minimum for the lowers, per seat and that won't fly well with fans here as it will come as a major shock.  We support the Manitoba Moose (Canucks AHL affiliate) quite well, to the tune of 8000 or so a game, but the pricing is familiar and like it was for the old Jets games - you can take the family to a game and afford to go back two weeks later.  Family of four in great seats at an NHL game?  $400 for the night.  Same for AHL game?  $100-150.  Huge difference for most.  I just don't see that many fans ponying up the $4000-6000 for season tickets. 

The arena we have is nice, but I think only about 15,500 in capacity.  Lots of nice boxes in it, so corporate tickets would be way better than the old barn which had none.  But the arena is still small. 

Quebec City would face many of the same issues I'd think, plus I don't think they currently have a suitable arena and then there's the whole French language issue, which is an issue no matter what anyone says.  It makes it uncomfortable for lots of the players. 

It wouldn't be fair if I didn't point out I hate Bettman, as does every Winnipegger worth their salt.  He's a moron and keeping the team in the US, almost completely regardless of market, instead of letting it come back to Canada is just plain stupidity.  You've got an interested buyer with dollars to burn, a love of the game, who wants to involve Gretzky, name the damn arena after Wayne's dad and a good market to put it in (duly noting some impacts to surrounding teams).  Why the hell would you want to put it in Kansas City or Tulsa or somewhere like that, where it will likely do as well as it has in Phoenix?   No disrespect to the fans of Phoenix, but it's just not a good market for it.  But obviously something is causing the owner of the current team to want out, probably the loss of millions of dollars and he just wants to stop the bleeding.  Winnipeg never had the owner with super deep pockets and according to Bettman we didn't support the team, so if that's the opinion of the owner in Phoenix about his fans, off it goes to Southern Ontario. 
Title: Re: NHL 2008 - 2009
Post by: Jesse James on May 7, 2009, 04:59 PM
Quote
Winnipeg, while not as much of a hole as Pittsburgh

Where does Winnipeg rank in the world's most livable cities list again?  I forget?  ;)

I was busting your balls mostly though Brent.  :)  Winnipeg was always actually a favorite town to travel to for the local guys that call the games.  Them and Vancouver...  Not that we ever got to either one often...  I really believe that's where it should wind up ultimately.  It feels wrong not having another team in the West and from Canada.  Your points are valid though (since you live there) as to why they don't get their team back.  The other towns you mentioned, I hadn't even heard of some of them.   :-\

I thought Hartford had made strides to regain an NHL team?  Maybe it would go there...  Hammilton seems an odd choice to me I guess, but if they've got the population and arena for it, whatever...  I wonder how it would shift things around in the East then?
Title: Re: NHL 2008 - 2009
Post by: Jeff on May 7, 2009, 05:54 PM
I wonder how it would shift things around in the East then?

Putting the team in Winnipeg would save a lot of trouble - you'd just drop them in the NW with Minnesota, Edmonton, Vancouver, and Calgary.  Then just bump Colorado to the Pacifi to take the Coyotes place.

But, if the team ends up out east, who know what they'd do?

What about something like this...

Colorado to the Pacific ->
Chicago or St. Louis to the Northwest ->
Pittsburg to the Central ->
Boston to the Atlantic ->
and "new team" to NorthEast.

That puts Crosby in the West, something the NHL would LOVE to see I think.  As a Western team fan, it does suck that we only get to see guys like Crosby/Malkin/Ovechkin, etc 1-2 times every three years.   :P

Moving Pit would cause some problems, yeah, but geographically Pit would be the easiest to bump to the West since it's closer to the Det/CBJ group.  Or, I guess you could bump ATL to the Central, and then Philly to the Southeast to take their spot and make room for Boston?
Title: Re: NHL 2008 - 2009
Post by: Jesse James on May 7, 2009, 06:12 PM
The biggest problems would be travel for the team and timezone issues...  It's 5 out west when it's 8 here, etc...  I really don't relish the thought of watching games at 1 a.m. that should've ended at 10. ;)  I don't know what Columbus fans do though, or how they have managed those issues.  Technically though, they are a midwest team...  We're not. 

There really aren't many other options geographically though, for certain.

It makes no sense geographically but move Florida into the West.  Nobody down there gives a **** about hockey anyway so having two teams is offensive.  Or what about the Islanders? ;D
Title: Re: NHL 2008 - 2009
Post by: Jeff on May 7, 2009, 06:20 PM
The biggest problems would be travel for the team and timezone issues... 

Yeah, we don't even have a division rival in our own time zone (they are all Mountain or Pacific) so don't complain to me about having to stay up late to watch.   :P

Title: Re: NHL 2008 - 2009
Post by: Jesse James on May 7, 2009, 06:24 PM
Maybe they will get moved somewhere in the midwest then?  KC's still got a nifty arena supposedly.
Title: Re: NHL 2008 - 2009
Post by: Ryan on May 7, 2009, 08:18 PM
And wasn't KC clamoring for the Penguins when they were rumored to be on the move?
Title: Re: NHL 2008 - 2009
Post by: Jesse James on May 7, 2009, 09:26 PM
Yup, they were balls to the wall to get them, and it was only because they were offering so much that it was being considered (new arena, etc.).  Different times economically, but I imagine they still maybe would be interested in a team.
Title: Re: NHL 2008 - 2009
Post by: stormie on May 15, 2009, 10:57 AM
Time to revise my picks again. I sucked in the first round and second round (50% in each). I'm seeing a Chicago-Carolina final.

First Round

Boston over Montreal
Washington over Rangers
Carolina over Devils
Philadelphia over Pens

Sharks over Ducks
Columbus over Wings
Blues over Vancouver
Chicago over Calgary

Second round

Carolina over Boston
Washington over Pens

Ducks over Red Wings
Chicago over Vancouver

Conference Finals

Carolina over Pens

Chicago over Wings

Cup Finals

Chicago over Carolina

Sure hope they go seven games each.

Title: Re: NHL 2008 - 2009
Post by: Morgbug on May 15, 2009, 06:20 PM
I'd love to see the Hawks win with that young team but I don't see it happening.

Wings-Pens final.  I think this time it's the Pens turn. 
Title: Re: NHL 2008 - 2009
Post by: Scott on May 15, 2009, 06:28 PM
I'd love to see the Hawks win with that young team but I don't see it happening.

Wings-Pens final.  I think this time it's the Pens turn. 
I'm pulling for the Hawks, mainly becuase they propelled me to 2nd place in Fantasy this year :)
Title: Re: NHL 2008 - 2009
Post by: Morgbug on May 16, 2009, 03:43 AM
Yes.  I still remember the draft where you kept taking Hawks right before I was planning on it.  I kept thinking WTF?   The only saving grace was Havlat and his first (ever?) largely injury free season.  He's leading the Hawks in playoff scoring too. 
Title: Re: NHL 2008 - 2009
Post by: Morgbug on May 16, 2009, 11:13 PM
ROFLMAO (http://www.winnipegsun.com/news/2009/05/16/9480706.html).  Yeah, sure, I believe Bettman  ::)
Title: Re: NHL 2008 - 2009
Post by: DSJ™ on May 28, 2009, 04:07 AM
Wessa have a new coach... Pat Quinn.
Title: Re: NHL 2008 - 2009
Post by: Paul on May 28, 2009, 09:43 AM
First off, let me say wow Brent called the finals weeks ago.   

Now on to my rant for the day...  I hate VERSUS.  Could they possibly find somebody in the production booth who has actually watched the Stanley Cup Playoffs for these things?

I know I am a simpleton and a Texan so I am not allowed to have an opinion on Hockey, but one of the most intresting things in Sports to me, is that after a hard fought series, the two teams line up and shake hands.  No matter the bad blood between any players, the team that lost will acknowledge the victor and the winner will honor the team that lost for their valiant effort.   So after 60 minutes of shutout hockey, I expected to see Osgood and Huet at least skate near each other, but nothing.  They showed about 3 or 4 different shots of the line, I saw the backup goalie for Chicago (the guy from the AHL) more than Osgood or Huet. 

Anyway, that is my gripe.

If the Finals goes 7 games I win our office pool.
Title: Re: NHL 2008 - 2009
Post by: Jesse James on May 28, 2009, 04:35 PM
How about their logo thing down in the bottom right hand corner always covering **** up?  Vs. sucks.
Title: Re: NHL 2008 - 2009
Post by: Morgbug on May 28, 2009, 05:35 PM


I know I am a simpleton and a Texan so I am not allowed to have an opinion on Hockey, but one of the most intresting things in Sports to me, is that after a hard fought series, the two teams line up and shake hands.  No matter the bad blood between any players, the team that lost will acknowledge the victor and the winner will honor the team that lost for their valiant effort.   So after 60 minutes of shutout hockey, I expected to see Osgood and Huet at least skate near each other, but nothing.  They showed about 3 or 4 different shots of the line, I saw the backup goalie for Chicago (the guy from the AHL) more than Osgood or Huet. 


Actually....I'm not certain of the source, but I have heard in past that Texas actually has more "professional" hockey teams than all of Canada.   This is in the sense of teams playing ice hockey that get paid to play, level notwithstanding.  Not sure how true it is.  While I'll confess to anger over the North Stars moving out of Minneapolis (well, Bloomington) to Dallas and the name change I would also say that since they've been there I've never been able to gripe about fan support for the team.  The building is almost always full and the city is deserving of a team. 
Title: Re: NHL 2008 - 2009
Post by: Jesse James on May 28, 2009, 05:38 PM
I find it funny Detroit can't sell out their own arena considering their success.  There's a push on in town here to get tickets and make the trip.  It's a short drive too.

I was impressed with Carolina's fans in that series.  I've never really thought much of them but they stayed through the handshake and presentation.  I really thought that building was gonna empty out fast but they hung on.

Washington fans were emptying at the end of that series though...  Typical.
Title: Re: NHL 2008 - 2009
Post by: Jeff on May 28, 2009, 06:03 PM
I have heard in past that Texas actually has more "professional" hockey teams than all of Canada.

Really?  I thought Texas only has about 10-12 teams if you count AHL/CHL/paid minors.  Canada has to have more than that counting all the various the minor leagues?   ???

I find it funny Detroit can't sell out their own arena considering their success.

IMaybe we can blame that on the economy too... in case you haven't heard, things aren't going so well in Detroit.  :-X


Title: Re: NHL 2008 - 2009
Post by: Morgbug on May 28, 2009, 06:20 PM
Jeff, I don't know where I heard that stat or what it includes (beer leagues?) so it could well be wrong.  Still, the notion of 10-12 teams in Texas is kinda interesting considering the climate.  I gotta think you don't have no kiddies running about in the streets with hockey gear, at least not commonly so. 

Canada would definitely exceed that number between NHL/AHL/CHL/WHL etc. leagues.  Geez, I couldn't come close to naming all the teams in Canada, let alone leagues. 
Title: Re: NHL 2008 - 2009
Post by: Jesse James on May 28, 2009, 06:23 PM
I've heard that as a theory, but I find it hard to believe that they can't sell it out...  It's the friggin' finals!  Even in the dark times around here, the arena offered seats inexpensively for the college crowd which ultimately turned around to be the most rabid fans...  I don't know if the Wings are doing anything remotely similar but I think if it's an economic issue they could rectify it by lowering prices to fill seats with their own fans at least.

It's rough all over too though...  I just figured "hockey town" would somehow sell out their own arena considering what they've accomplished last year and this year.  For the organization that has to be a HUGE disappointment.

If Detroit is anything like Pittsburgh now though, tickets are expensive and prohibitive to many fans...  Still, I'd think selling anything remaining open at a steep discount an hour or two before game time would be a good idea just to fill things out.
Title: Re: NHL 2008 - 2009
Post by: CorranHorn on May 28, 2009, 07:39 PM

I find it funny Detroit can't sell out their own arena considering their success.

IMaybe we can blame that on the economy too... in case you haven't heard, things aren't going so well in Detroit.  :-X


I've heard it said for some teams, including the Wings over the years, that fans expect so much out of a team come playoff time that they only go to the Finals - sort of a high expectation / self-entitlement thing I guess. I was in Detroit 2 weekends ago, just before Game 1 of the Hawks/Wings series, and the only tickets available were the high-end seats near the boards, way out of my price range. My guess would be that many of the "cheaper" seats are sold, but the pricier ones can still be had.

The thing about Versus not showing the handshakes pissed me off too, I like seeing that interaction after the game especially when there is someone like Kronwall who's number is going to be marked by the Hawks for a long time to come.

Some fans in Chicago are majorly disappointed about the end of the Hawks season, however I'm 100% satisfied with the way things turned out. They more than met expectations and this is the most successful year they've had in over a decade with nothing but bright futures ahead.

The Hawks motto this year was ONE GOAL - used to describe where as a team they wanted to be. First it was a winning record, then 100+ points, making the playoffs, then winning a playoff series. They not only did all of that, but got all the way to the Conference finals for the first time in 14 years. A great season to me and I can't wait for October.

And as a Blackhawks fan, my goal for the rest of the playoffs is to hope beyond hope that the Pens sweep the Wings in 4.  ;D
Title: Re: NHL 2008 - 2009
Post by: Jesse James on May 28, 2009, 08:04 PM
They're reporting here a LOT of seats are available...  There's an active move to get people up there, haha.  We used to do this to Washington, but Washington was advising their people not to sell extra tickets to Pens fans I guess...  It's nuts this time of year. :)
Title: Re: NHL 2008 - 2009
Post by: Paul on May 30, 2009, 11:56 AM
I would say there are probably 10-12 pay for play Hockey Teams here in the state.

And no there is NEVER a chance to see kids outside on a frozen pond skating.  But within 5 minutes from my house alone there are 5 rinks for rec-league hockey..as compared to when I was younger and we had someone transfer here from Minnesota and he played on a a Junior League Team that it took the entire North Texas area to fill.  Now my old High School has a team.   

I'm sure I've already shared this, but my first "pro" event I went to was the Fort Worth Red Wings Hockey games back in the 70's.  To this day my mom is a Red Wings fan (unless they play the Stars).

I am stoked about the Finals Starting tonight.  Gonna get some good Take-Out from a small Italian Place (Calzones are Game 1 food in our house).

Title: Re: NHL 2008 - 2009
Post by: GrandMoffNick on June 1, 2009, 08:07 AM
Wings 2 - Crosby, I mean Pens 0. Yeah!!!!

It's too bad the "almost goal" part of the scoreboard for Pitt wasn't working and the "lucky goal" part wasn't working for Detroit otherwise the series might be opposite. (some of you may get that)  ;)
Title: Re: NHL 2008 - 2009
Post by: GrandMoffNick on June 1, 2009, 06:49 PM
I'm actually glad on the NHL's decision because I want the finals to be as full strength as possible, but how lucky are the Pens that the NHL office decided not to give Malkin an instigator penalty at the end of the game yesterday. A fighting instigator in the final five minutes comes with an automatic one game suspension.
Title: Re: NHL 2008 - 2009
Post by: Jesse James on June 1, 2009, 07:22 PM
I don't consider it luck personally.  I think they did it because of the circumstances that led to the fight, namely the late hits/scrum...  It wasn't like Malkin was a goon sent on the ice to pick the fight specifically, which is that rule's intent ultimately.  It all occurred amidst a large scrum/fight amongst all the players, and that's just hockey fighting to me.  I think the refs didn't look at it that way at the time, and the NHL did ultimately.

Obviously I'm disappointed in the series, but I think a lot of the games have been close enough for hope for the series, and they've been entertaining to watch regardless...  It's a huge task to play such a defensively deep team though, and Detroit is amazing with that part of the game.  I think that's their best aspect personally.  Offensively they're deep and very good, but I think the Pens are superior...  their defensive game is just amazing though and they generate from that and make generating your own offense an almost impossible task at times.  It's really something to watch, honestly.  I think right now Fleury and Osgood are fairly evenly matched, but Osgood's making saves when he has to and Fleury let in a weak assed one last night when it really mattered a lot.  Disappointing all around.  Our defense isn't near as deep though, and that is showing...  Plus Gonchar is still hurt pretty bad according to rumors in Pittsburgh, which certainly isn't helping.  Definitely disappointing for a Pittsburgh fan right now though.  I'll keep my beard going though and hope for the best for the Penguins. :)
Title: Re: NHL 2008 - 2009
Post by: Jeff on June 4, 2009, 02:35 PM
So, with Granato finally getting the ax this week (awfully late for that, don't you think?), that makes 4 of the 5 Northwestern teams that have hit the "reboot" button for head coaches:

EDM - fired MacTavish, hired Pat Quinn
MIN - Lemaire quit, hired ?
CAL - fired Keenan, hired ?
COL - fired Granato, hired ?

They all seems to be looking at the same guys too.  I know the Wild looked at Pat Quinn, sounds like Calgary interviewed him too before he landed in Edmonton.  Also sounds like more than a few of the teams are interested in former Hurricanes coach Peter Laviolette.  I wonder which one will land him.


OK, sorry for the distraction - back to your regularly scheduled Stanley Cup talk... Go Red Wings!
Title: Re: NHL 2008 - 2009
Post by: Jeff on June 4, 2009, 02:49 PM
I lied, I'm back again with more non-Cup realted things - this one is for Brent:

(http://assets.sbnation.com/assets/123080/coyotes_ticket_data_medium.jpg)

08/09 Average announced attendance:  14,866
08/09 Total PAID Tickets: 13,075
08/09 Actual announced attendance:  10,943

Average ACTUAL attendance since '96/97 = 12,068

It sort of makes you wish every team was in bankruptcy so we could see these kinds of numbers for plenty of other teams - I can't imagine Phoenix is the only place where actual attendance is 4k lower than what the team announces.   :P
Title: Re: NHL 2008 - 2009
Post by: CorranHorn on June 4, 2009, 05:08 PM
Those are some interesting numbers there Jeff, add in the 30 yr lease with the arena it's no wonder the Coyotes are in the position they are in.

Until the last 1+ seasons, the Blackhawks were consistently announcing crowds of 10-15k, when in fact they may have had 5k in attendance. There was a stretch of 2-3 years where the AHL's Wolves, our minor league team in a town called Rosemont not too far from O'Hare Airport, had consistently larger actual attendance numbers than the NHL's Blackhawks.

I don't have the stats to prove that since that kind of information is hush hush, but you could easily tell the stark difference in actual butts in the seats from watching the Wolves on TV and seeing highlights on the news for the Hawks (this is before home games were televised). So I wouldn't be surprised if other teams (not just in the NHL) are playing with the books when it comes to announcing attendance as it usually matters only how many tickets were sold to the teams.
Title: Re: NHL 2008 - 2009
Post by: Jesse James on June 4, 2009, 05:39 PM
In the down times, the Pens would sell out, but it took financial finegaling to get it done usually because they'd have the student rush program and whatnot.  The SR program had any available seat, no matter where it was (except box seats) for $20 a head, so long as you flashed a valid student id.  The theory being that Oakland's right up 5th Avenue, and that's where CMU, Pitt, Carlow, etc. are all at, and the Southside right across the river has lots of college kids living there too, so they'd come sell out the games.  While you'd see the attendance #'s in butts in the seats on TV, the financial reality of those sell-outs was much different.

That said, the college kids were the hardest of hardcore fanbase since they'd sit out in the rain, snow, and anything else waiting for the hour before gametime to see if they could get tickets, and usually at least 50% or more needed turned away I think.  It got so bad (the weather) at times that the Penguin players were actually buying pizza and taking it out to the crowd for doing that.

It's definitely its own way of fudging the books though, from a certain point of view.
Title: Re: NHL 2008 - 2009
Post by: Ryan on June 12, 2009, 11:43 PM
Congrats to the Pens. That was a very exciting finish tonight. Jesse must need some new pants. Then Pens and the Steelers win it in one year? Wow. Maybe the Pirates can pull it off too? Oh wait... :P
Title: Re: NHL 2008 - 2009
Post by: Paul on June 12, 2009, 11:44 PM
Congrats JJ.

I just got home, so I missed the game.  Are they boo-ing Bettman? or something else?
Title: Re: NHL 2008 - 2009
Post by: Rob on June 12, 2009, 11:45 PM
That was excellent.  When that puck went off the crossbar with a few minutes left I nearly pooped myself.
Title: Re: NHL 2008 - 2009
Post by: Morgbug on June 12, 2009, 11:48 PM
Great finish.  Congrats to Jesse and the Pens.  Might get another title in about 5 minutes too.  

I swear I saw Satan holding the Cup  :o
Title: Re: NHL 2008 - 2009
Post by: Jesse James on June 13, 2009, 03:50 AM
Thanks!  :D

If you want to read my feelings, I posted them in the Pittsburgh sports thread in our Mission Log area...  It's a lot so I won't copy it all here, just suffice it to say I wasn't old enough to drink/grow a beard when they last won one, so this means a whole different thing to me...  I dunno.  It sounds dumb but it's how I feel.

I'm really curious when the last time was that two major league teams won championships in the same year for the same city.  I think that's a friggin' cool stat but it may be sooner than I'm thinking.

I knew the Penguins could lock it down if they played smart.  The Wings were putting on major pressure at the end though, but they really were stonewalled for a lot of the game too once the Penguins went into shut-down mode.  The best part maybe was watching Hossa walk down the aisle to their locker room....  but I also felt bad for him too (only when the game was well over though).

I'm just pretty ecstatic, and I've been tied up with this all evening pretty much, haha.  I'm bustin' out the jersey tomorrow regardless of how warm it is.  Got a grad party to attend, and know a couple kids I helped coach in hockey are gonna be there and I'm looking forward to the conversation with them.

Just a good day...  And as Badger Bob Johnson would have said, "It's a great day for hockey!" in Pittsburgh.  Hell I've already got the final seconds of the game called by Mike Lange as my ringtone on my phone, hah!  Now I can change my shorts and hit the hay here.
Title: Re: NHL 2008 - 2009
Post by: Ryan on June 13, 2009, 04:07 AM
I'm really curious when the last time was that two major league teams won championships in the same year for the same city.  I think that's a friggin' cool stat but it may be sooner than I'm thinking.

Boston had three Championships in 2003-2005 with the Patriots winning in the 2003-2004 season, repeating in 2004-2005 and the Red Sox won in 2004.

Then they did it again in 2007-2008. The Red Sox won in 2007 and the Celtics won in 2007-2008.
Title: Re: NHL 2008 - 2009
Post by: Jesse James on June 13, 2009, 04:09 AM
Ah ok.  I was thinking it was more recent than some were guessing here.  NBA gets no love here, rightly so since we have no team (nor do I think one would do well), but I forgot totally on the Pats/Sox.  Then again we barely have a baseball team too, so forgetting who the hell wins that isn't too hard here either.

Go Pirates though! :P
Title: Re: NHL 2008 - 2009
Post by: DSJ™ on June 13, 2009, 06:32 AM
Congrats on the big win Jesse, I also missed the game.  (http://www.cheesebuerger.de/images/smilie/muede/e010.gif)
Title: Re: NHL 2008 - 2009
Post by: Rob on June 13, 2009, 02:04 PM
I'm really curious when the last time was that two major league teams won championships in the same year for the same city.  I think that's a friggin' cool stat but it may be sooner than I'm thinking.

Boston had three Championships in 2003-2005 with the Patriots winning in the 2003-2004 season, repeating in 2004-2005 and the Red Sox won in 2004.

Then they did it again in 2007-2008. The Red Sox won in 2007 and the Celtics won in 2007-2008.

I know it's only college, but the Gators were recently reigning Basketball and Football champs, and I think that was the first time that had ever been done.
Title: Re: NHL 2008 - 2009
Post by: GrandMoffNick on June 13, 2009, 02:26 PM

Go Pirates though! :P

If by Go Pirates you mean trade away all your good players once they show promise then you are in for a fun season!!!!  ;)
Title: Re: NHL 2008 - 2009
Post by: Morgbug on June 13, 2009, 05:26 PM
I know it's only college, but the Gators were recently reigning Basketball and Football champs, and I think that was the first time that had ever been done.

I don't think the word "only" applies to college basketball and football.  That might be even more uncommon and difficult.

Good day hockey-wise yesterday as the Hershey Bears won the Calder Cup.  Unfortunately for me they beat the Manitoba Moose in the final  :'(
Title: Re: NHL 2008 - 2009
Post by: Jesse James on June 14, 2009, 03:21 PM
I didn't want Hershey to win because they dropped the baby Pens earlier when (ironically) we were playing Washington.  Plus after Hedberg playing here I dig the Moose and was hoping they'd win.

Quote
If by Go Pirates you mean trade away all your good players once they show promise then you are in for a fun season!!!! 

I don't honestly follow baseball at all.  I liked playing it, but to me watching it is like watching golf, or paint dry...  Just not really that entertaining.  In town here it's more fun to go to the park because it's so pretty and along the river, plus maybe you luck into fireworks on the three rivers (they love their fireworks nights to get people to go).  The game's sort of secondary, though they did get revenge on the Tigers, perhaps inspired by the Penguins. ;)

The management is attrocious though, or so it seems to me anyway...  We've become like a farm team for everyone else to develope talent through I guess.

Eh, I like football and hockey, and those kick much ass here so I'm pretty happy.

If you guys ever get into town though, PNC park is supposedly one of the best I guess, so check it out.  I've been to like 5 games.  My gf's work has a super box and I was there last year for a game in the box, and man was it great.  They wheel around this huge ass dessert tray late in the game and you can get this giant brick of chocolate cake...  Or anything else really, but I got the cake.  My god it was the best cake I ever had. 

I like walking around and looking at the different views of the city and things though, eat some food, drink some beer...  HOpe for tickets to a Pens or Steelers game next season. :P
Title: Re: NHL 2008 - 2009
Post by: Jeff on June 16, 2009, 02:16 PM
Wild = trying to be the new Penguins?  First, we picked the Pen's assistant GM to be our new GM and then we picked a former Baby Pens head coach to be our new head coach...  hmmm.

The local paper guys were writing about what a joke it is that so many Western conference teams try to mimic Detroit's style of play (and fail miserably).  I guess mimicking the Pens is the new thing to do.   :P
Title: Re: NHL 2008 - 2009
Post by: Jesse James on June 16, 2009, 03:31 PM
Trying to mimic Detroit would be hard without that insanely deep roster, and guys willing to take the paycuts to be on said roster.  That's all their success to me...  They've just got a solid line-up 4 lines deep.  :-\
Title: Re: NHL 2008 - 2009
Post by: GrandMoffNick on June 17, 2009, 05:52 PM
Maybe it's just poetic justice that Detroit is whining the way Crosby loves to, but I'm so sick of hearing how Crosby was disrespectful for celebrating too long and missing shaking the other teams captain. Shut up!!!!! He won his first cup. Let him celebrate. It wasn't on purpose (like Lebron).
Title: Re: NHL 2008 - 2009
Post by: Jesse James on June 18, 2009, 12:30 AM
No surprise, but I agree with you Nick...  That's such a non-story, every sports-talk I've listened to since the Cup says it's a non-story, and to me they are the ones who bolted too fast...  Last year the Penguins had to linger on the ice quite a while before the handshake started...

To be fair, I think because it went seven games it "stung" a little more maybe, and they wanted to get off the ice...  I could tell some of them were antsy, and I know the feeling of wanting to just not be there like that, so I don't blame Lidstrom and them for wanting to leave...  I think they were entitled to, but don't bitch about the "rush" to get off the ice if you missed Crosby's handshake.  It's been pretty widely reported that he had every friggin' news guy up his ass tugging at him for a comment, he was celebrating a little with the guys from Wilkes-Barre called up, and the reserves...  He's friggin' Captain and all...  I think everything considered, this was probably the most lame thing to complain about, and just let it go.  It's also not the first time someone missed somebody for a handshake too...  It happens a bit through various series, and it wasn't intentional obviously since he did get in line... 

I stand by the notion it was game 7 and it stung and they wanted to bolt quickly thing.  Just wish they'd stop bitching about it.
Title: Re: NHL 2008 - 2009
Post by: JangoTat on June 24, 2009, 03:11 PM
Maybe it's just poetic justice that Detroit is whining the way Crosby loves to, but I'm so sick of hearing how Crosby was disrespectful for celebrating too long and missing shaking the other teams captain. Shut up!!!!! He won his first cup. Let him celebrate. It wasn't on purpose (like Lebron).

yeah i have to agree with that. and although i was cheering for the pens (sadly) it was very hard to support them (crosby) after his little soccer dive in game (6?). But im happy to see fluery win the cup and cooke, staal, ok and malkin but thats about it lol. now hopefully neither of these teams make it to the finals next year. i want to see new teams up there! its not as entertaining when its the same two teams in the top every year.
Title: Re: NHL 2008 - 2009
Post by: Jeff on July 2, 2009, 11:37 AM
Hooray!  We replaced our often-injured 27 year old Solvakian (Gaborik) with an often injured 28 year old Czech (Havlat).

Gaborik - 8 years, 502 games, 437 points (0.87 ppg), +54 career
Havlat - 8 years, 470 games, 396 points (0.84 ppg), +87 career

Most of the Wild fans I know seem to hate the idea, but to me they are basically the same guy - potential star who never lived up to the hype thanks to injuries.  At least Havlat will save us 2.5mil per year compared to Gaborik, hopefuly we cna use that cap space for someone else who can help score (another Koivu?).


As for the rest of the NHL, I wasn't surprised to see the twins stay in Vancouver.  It would have been tough for them to lost those two.  Also, man the Habs seemed to dump half their team and reload by adding Gomez, Camalleri, Gill, Gionta, Spacek.  They look a lot better already on paper, we'll see how they fair with a new coach.  And Hossa in Chicago is a definite upgrade from Havlat, that should also help Kane/Toews out as well I think. 
Title: Re: NHL 2008 - 2009
Post by: Morgbug on July 2, 2009, 02:35 PM
The only consolation I'd offer is that Havlat only missed a few games this past year.  I think that was in large part due to having Kane/Toews take the focus off him in Chicago and the focus will be right back on with the Wild. 
Title: Re: NHL 2008 - 2009
Post by: Jesse James on July 3, 2009, 12:07 AM
I liked Gill well enough for his size but he was a liability at times too.  he didn't defend well against speed often times, and would get tore up by guys who were more speed/finesse.  I liked him, but I didn't think he was everything he was cracked up to be...  I thought Scuderi did more of the work out of the duo, and unfortunately we lost him today to Los Angeles who seem to be actually wanting to spend something.

That one stings.  Losing Fedotenko, which is very likely, will also sting a bit.

Hossa's big move was the biggie so far.  I'm surprised he jumped so quickly to dump Detroit, and not fish himself around free agency for a while.

Pronger to Philly was a biggie too...  Especially for the East teams.  It's a big sign of the times here with all the depth on offense in the East right now.

Pens are now shopping around for defensive defenseman, and maybe a crash-the-net forward still...  Guerrin's nice to have, as is Kunitz, but I still think they lack that bruiser that plants himself in front of the net, unless they think Rupp will do it.  ???
Title: Re: NHL 2008 - 2009
Post by: Morgbug on July 3, 2009, 12:48 AM


Hossa's big move was the biggie so far.  I'm surprised he jumped so quickly to dump Detroit, and not fish himself around free agency for a while.

Agreed on the big move, but a 12 year contract?  I don't think he cared to fish around; I'd be willing to be he just looked at that and went huh, set for life and be done with it.  Chicago played the salary cap game, so that's where the 12 years come in and I can't see him not having something guaranteed beyond 5-6 years because he might not be playing then.  So he's looking at 60-65 million dollars.  I guess that's enough for some guys.  Agreed he could have got more though.

The scary part for Chicago is that Kane/Toews/Keith are all restricted free agents after next year.  Good move signing Hossa?  Dunno, much as I love him as a player and have since he was in Ottawa, I'm not sure I'd opt for him over Kane and Toews down the road.  Those latter two guys are just kids and look at what they did?  They may end up as better players in only a year or two and they'll be sitting on Hossa.  I think Hossa can play productively for another 4-6 years; Kane and Toews are probably looking at 10. 

Next year, after the season is over, will tell the tale on Chicago and if they can keep all of Toews, Kane and Hossa and not lose any other guys (if they could move Campbell and his contract they'd probably die laughing, but that won't happen this year, unless they approach Toronto ;)).
Title: Re: NHL 2008 - 2009
Post by: Jesse James on July 3, 2009, 02:41 AM
Oh, I agree on the money thing, but I was talking sort of about two goals...  Financial security being one, but he also left Pittsburgh (where he claimed he enjoyed his time, and the team) for Detroit, for less money, all to win a championship.  Plus he had a good season regardless of what he didn't do in the finals.

I didn't read if Detroit made any offers to him or not (anyone?), but I figured he maybe would've looked at other team's offers based on their readiness to win the cup in the next 2 to 3 years.  Not that Chicago couldn't, they got to the finals...  I just don't know where they would rank in anyone's mind to make it to the cup in the next 2 or 3 years or so.

I think he's got a good set up for sure...  I thought maybe Washington was going to make a play for him, or Los Angeles.

He's also moving to a good city too, not just a good young team, so I suppose that's a factor as well...  If you're planning to end there ultimately, and maybe stay.  I loved it when I've been there.

I just sort of thought he'd pick another team.  I really thought Washington was going to make a major play for him.  Or the Rangers since they make a play for everyone it seems.
Title: Re: NHL 2008 - 2009
Post by: Jesse James on July 4, 2009, 01:10 PM
Fedotenko, who played really well in the playoffs, took a paycut to stay...  A pretty hefty one according to reports.  I love stuff like that.  He was a really important player so while losing Scuderri hurts, it's nice they could retain some key guys.