No, I'm not talking ridiculous pre-season freakouts. I'm talking the end of pre-season! And THANK GOD FOR THAT. You're all driving me insane...
So naturally the Habs returned their remaining Junior kids, which is fine. Would have been nice to see Gallagher with the 9-game stint but things are about to get serious. No more camp mode for Martin. Also saves them a contract, which he'll probably get next summer. And I pity the team that faces him in his first game back on Saturday... (When he was cut from Team Canada he responded with a 2 goal, 3 assist night).
Bournival raced back to Shawinigan and jumped in the lineup. Naturally he opened the scoring for his team.
The Hamilton Bulldogs have opened their pre-season with a 4-1 win over the BingoSens in Victoriaville. Avtsin got two goals. Trotter got 3 assists and an elbow to the head (argh). Willsie and Lefebvre got the other two in a "come from behind" win after being down 1-0. Mayer was in nets. Try-out and killer-of-Montreal-Juniors Olivier Dame-Malka said hello with a huge hit and an assist.
Morgan Ellis has been on quite a roll since returning to Cape Breton. He was instrumental in tonight's comeback win for the Screaming Eagles.
Jarred Tinordi joins his fellow prospects on the captain list, as the London Knights just announced him to be their new captain. Bournival and Ellis are captains of their respective teams. Darren Dietz is an assistant captain of the Saskatoon Blades.
Word is out that Trevor Timmins is checking out the Hershey Bears. Or...maybe he was checking out the BabyPenguins. Either way he was in Hershey and wasn't exactly there for the chocolate. This news of course sent most Habs fans all a twitter, because you know this 1-6 preseason record hasn't done that already. (You're all loony).
TOMORROW! Bulldogs in a rematch with the BingoSens in Drummondville. Habs in a rematch with the Lightning in Quebec City. Habs fans will still be a pack of psychos.
Friday, September 30, 2011
Thursday, September 29, 2011
Pre-season Game 7: Experimental
So yea, this one was rather crap. Much like the rain! Heeeey getting those November-type games in early I suppose? Probably could make this entry quick...
- Stamkos is a weenie. Really tired of his petulant superstar act.
- Gallagher's adjusting at an alarming rate. He's earned everything he's getting and hopefully he'll get those 9 games to build on his incredible talent.
- Must be really annoying having Marc Denis blabber away in a language you don't understand and then randomly hear your name so you assume he's talking about you, eh Price? *he nods*
- The experiment on the powerplay isn't so bad. They didn't score, because what would be a seriously focused one-timer was held too long or just released into a thicket of feet. Or off the post.
- Roloson is such a fucking drama queen.
- Diaz and Yemelin are going through some serious adjustments. Diaz seems to be learning quickly but that may be a language thing. Still, someone must have whispered into Yemelin's ear to hit something because he started doing so in the 3rd.
- If it was a choice between Campoli or Spacek, I'd take the Campoli.
- I would be happy to watch 60 minutes of PK just motoring down the ice through everyone. SKILLS!
- Bournival let off a shot that went right through Roloson. Hit the fucking post...but still, this kid's gonna be a good one. He's an intelligent player, and Team Canada could have used him last year.
- Yea you know it's preseason when Cammy flubs his trademark on-bended-knee shot with a wide open net...
- Request to Pierre Groulx: tie Budaj to the crossbar with short rope so he won't go down so much.
The latest freakout! Martin is going to meet with each player individually to discuss things like progress and work ethic (since some haven't really kicked it in gear this preseason) and upcoming expectations. Nothing wrong with discussions. Your coach du year Guy Boucher meets with players all the time to discuss similar things. So what's the problem? Because he's not the sexy pick it's "OMGPROBLEMS!" but if it's the sexy pick like Boucher it's "yes yes what an intelligent dude"?
I want preseason to be over already. One. More. Game.
- Stamkos is a weenie. Really tired of his petulant superstar act.
- Gallagher's adjusting at an alarming rate. He's earned everything he's getting and hopefully he'll get those 9 games to build on his incredible talent.
- Must be really annoying having Marc Denis blabber away in a language you don't understand and then randomly hear your name so you assume he's talking about you, eh Price? *he nods*
- The experiment on the powerplay isn't so bad. They didn't score, because what would be a seriously focused one-timer was held too long or just released into a thicket of feet. Or off the post.
- Roloson is such a fucking drama queen.
- Diaz and Yemelin are going through some serious adjustments. Diaz seems to be learning quickly but that may be a language thing. Still, someone must have whispered into Yemelin's ear to hit something because he started doing so in the 3rd.
- If it was a choice between Campoli or Spacek, I'd take the Campoli.
- I would be happy to watch 60 minutes of PK just motoring down the ice through everyone. SKILLS!
- Bournival let off a shot that went right through Roloson. Hit the fucking post...but still, this kid's gonna be a good one. He's an intelligent player, and Team Canada could have used him last year.
- Yea you know it's preseason when Cammy flubs his trademark on-bended-knee shot with a wide open net...
- Request to Pierre Groulx: tie Budaj to the crossbar with short rope so he won't go down so much.
The latest freakout! Martin is going to meet with each player individually to discuss things like progress and work ethic (since some haven't really kicked it in gear this preseason) and upcoming expectations. Nothing wrong with discussions. Your coach du year Guy Boucher meets with players all the time to discuss similar things. So what's the problem? Because he's not the sexy pick it's "OMGPROBLEMS!" but if it's the sexy pick like Boucher it's "yes yes what an intelligent dude"?
I want preseason to be over already. One. More. Game.
Monday, September 26, 2011
Pre-season Game 6: Way better than yesterday
Habs bring the scrubs and ice 6 NHLers (including Price) to the Bruins AHL squad and 11 NHLers and manage to be a handful. It was a skating marathon tonight. Probably their best game of the preseason without actually being on the real roster. Sadly a great game was ruing by blind zebras who apparently forgot big daddy Campbell isn't in charge any more. Their inconsistency is more aggravating than Spacek's brain farts. Well, almost....
- If this is how Price plays behind no defence for 60 minutes, I think we're all totally OK with that.
- Dear Hockey Gods, give Gallagher a bone please? And a goal. All those posts...
- Welcome to the Bell Center, Mr. Bournival! Looked quite solid out there, and no signs of a shoulder problem which he routinely slammed into a few Booins.
- Game could have used Pacioretty, who had the flu goddammit.
- Captain America had bite tonight. Was pissed with the refs antics in the faceoffs, ran full steam ahead on the puck, tossed Lucic into the boards quite heavily.
- Speaking of those boards, Tinordi loves them. To throw people into them.
- DeSimone: you're hired. And he's off to the Bulldogs camp for a contract he so very deserves.
- Spacek was better in his first game. Right now, the new leaner Spacek was crap. Lucky for him he was bailed by Price more than once. I kind of want him to take penalties just to get him off the ice.
- Regardless of his mistake on the Bruins goal, Gabby Dumont is a barrel of energy. Maybe he'll take White's place until he's ready to go?
- Or Blunden.
- EVEN WOYWITKA WAS PRETTY GOOD TONIGHT, SPACEK!
- Cammy wants 50 goals.
- Gallagher's up to 13 shots, placing him 2nd in the league. It doesn't count those that went off the post. (Pacioretty leads preseason with 15 in only 2 games).
- Jorje is in fine form, blocking shots.
- Diaz's shot will do better once he's used to playing here.
Tweet of the night: @AndrewBerkshire If Thornton bitched any more he'd be on Sex and the City.
Preseason is almost over, folks. And we'll finally see some actual roster players... More cuts today, including Brock Trotter who was playing. Hoping Jodoin will stamp out his evil turnovers. Unfortunately he's on waivers so DON'T YOU DARE TOUCH HIM, YOU MANITOBA-PLAYER ACCUMULATING WINNIPEG JETS! Hisss...
Leave the gun, take the Campoli
The Godfather might be a bit down on his second unit powerplay peoples. Diaz needs more AHL time, Yemelin wasn't brought over here to run it, Spacek just plain sucks, Weber can't run it alone, and all our forwards are the type that excel better down low (because SERGEI was the Kostitsyn that quarterbacked powerplays you numbskull). So Habs went out and got Chris Campoli. Basically he's the new Wiz, only cheaper. And not for 6 years.
So long as he doesn't really come here to play defence, it's fine. Though I'm hoping Ladouceur can teach him a few things...
- If this is how Price plays behind no defence for 60 minutes, I think we're all totally OK with that.
- Dear Hockey Gods, give Gallagher a bone please? And a goal. All those posts...
- Welcome to the Bell Center, Mr. Bournival! Looked quite solid out there, and no signs of a shoulder problem which he routinely slammed into a few Booins.
- Game could have used Pacioretty, who had the flu goddammit.
- Captain America had bite tonight. Was pissed with the refs antics in the faceoffs, ran full steam ahead on the puck, tossed Lucic into the boards quite heavily.
- Speaking of those boards, Tinordi loves them. To throw people into them.
- DeSimone: you're hired. And he's off to the Bulldogs camp for a contract he so very deserves.
- Spacek was better in his first game. Right now, the new leaner Spacek was crap. Lucky for him he was bailed by Price more than once. I kind of want him to take penalties just to get him off the ice.
- Regardless of his mistake on the Bruins goal, Gabby Dumont is a barrel of energy. Maybe he'll take White's place until he's ready to go?
- Or Blunden.
- EVEN WOYWITKA WAS PRETTY GOOD TONIGHT, SPACEK!
- Cammy wants 50 goals.
- Gallagher's up to 13 shots, placing him 2nd in the league. It doesn't count those that went off the post. (Pacioretty leads preseason with 15 in only 2 games).
- Jorje is in fine form, blocking shots.
- Diaz's shot will do better once he's used to playing here.
Tweet of the night: @AndrewBerkshire If Thornton bitched any more he'd be on Sex and the City.
Preseason is almost over, folks. And we'll finally see some actual roster players... More cuts today, including Brock Trotter who was playing. Hoping Jodoin will stamp out his evil turnovers. Unfortunately he's on waivers so DON'T YOU DARE TOUCH HIM, YOU MANITOBA-PLAYER ACCUMULATING WINNIPEG JETS! Hisss...
Leave the gun, take the Campoli
The Godfather might be a bit down on his second unit powerplay peoples. Diaz needs more AHL time, Yemelin wasn't brought over here to run it, Spacek just plain sucks, Weber can't run it alone, and all our forwards are the type that excel better down low (because SERGEI was the Kostitsyn that quarterbacked powerplays you numbskull). So Habs went out and got Chris Campoli. Basically he's the new Wiz, only cheaper. And not for 6 years.
So long as he doesn't really come here to play defence, it's fine. Though I'm hoping Ladouceur can teach him a few things...
Sunday, September 25, 2011
Pre-season Game 5: Golf
The first time RDS finally shows the pre-season game in Halifax (from what I remember anyway) and...it's delayed because some PGA Golf tournament snorefest went into overtime. Basically we missed Gomez's goal. Yes, it's true! And on a breakaway! Incredible, I know! I mean he actually DIDN'T pass it to himself and finally shot the puck!
Of course when they finally switched back, the game turned to shit. Hey whatever. It gave Benoit Brunet something to crap about. Much like some, he didn't get the memo of back-to-back-to-back-to-back games with a defense of mostly 19-year-olds.
- Palushaj's hard work finally got him a goal. Dude must be exhausted though. I'm thinking he gets the game off tomorrow. He deserves it.
- Some nice plays by Morgan Ellis in his first game. Looks like he'll be a serviceable when he grows up.
- Archambault dove to block a shot from Chara. No fear in our boys, unlike what certain radio hosts believe.
- Favourite RDS remark of the night: Alain Crete "Did you see any improvement in Benoit Pouliot tonight?" Denis Gauthier "Did you see Benoit Pouliot tonight?"
- If the Habs were the Carolina Hurricanes of last year, Gallagher would be our Jeff Skinner and would probably start the season on the team.
- Speaking of Gallagher, he hit like 10 posts and continued his strong play. Basically, like a dog with a bone. Knock him into the boards while pushing him off one of his rushes? Pfft no problem. Gets right back up and tries to score again.
- Habs in general hit like 20 posts. How you doing, Khudobin?
- Not exactly Budaj's best effort but considering who was playing in front of him, who can blame him?
- Hilarious how it seemed every time Marchand touched the puck he was booed. In Halifax.
- Speaking of the hometown troll, you know when Hal Gill can outrun you it raises some eyebrows.
- Felt like the Bruins cheering section consisted of a few friends and family members of the players. Or disgruntled Patriots fans. (Hello Buffalo Bills).
- Yea that Kostitsyn on the point experiment? WRONG KOSTITSYN! Sergei was the powerplay quarterback. Andrei's strength is from the middle to down low!
Tomorrow is more Booins. And it'll be the debut for Michaël Bournival, who was cleared to play after a knee injury had him miss a large chunk of pre-season. It'll also be the first time Patches faces the Bruins since Chara nearly killed him.
By the way, I gotta laugh at Pouliot wearing #67 considering. May that number burn into your fucking soul, you lunkhead shaved gorilla of a captain.
Of course when they finally switched back, the game turned to shit. Hey whatever. It gave Benoit Brunet something to crap about. Much like some, he didn't get the memo of back-to-back-to-back-to-back games with a defense of mostly 19-year-olds.
- Palushaj's hard work finally got him a goal. Dude must be exhausted though. I'm thinking he gets the game off tomorrow. He deserves it.
- Some nice plays by Morgan Ellis in his first game. Looks like he'll be a serviceable when he grows up.
- Archambault dove to block a shot from Chara. No fear in our boys, unlike what certain radio hosts believe.
- Favourite RDS remark of the night: Alain Crete "Did you see any improvement in Benoit Pouliot tonight?" Denis Gauthier "Did you see Benoit Pouliot tonight?"
- If the Habs were the Carolina Hurricanes of last year, Gallagher would be our Jeff Skinner and would probably start the season on the team.
- Speaking of Gallagher, he hit like 10 posts and continued his strong play. Basically, like a dog with a bone. Knock him into the boards while pushing him off one of his rushes? Pfft no problem. Gets right back up and tries to score again.
- Habs in general hit like 20 posts. How you doing, Khudobin?
- Not exactly Budaj's best effort but considering who was playing in front of him, who can blame him?
- Hilarious how it seemed every time Marchand touched the puck he was booed. In Halifax.
- Speaking of the hometown troll, you know when Hal Gill can outrun you it raises some eyebrows.
- Felt like the Bruins cheering section consisted of a few friends and family members of the players. Or disgruntled Patriots fans. (Hello Buffalo Bills).
- Yea that Kostitsyn on the point experiment? WRONG KOSTITSYN! Sergei was the powerplay quarterback. Andrei's strength is from the middle to down low!
Tomorrow is more Booins. And it'll be the debut for Michaël Bournival, who was cleared to play after a knee injury had him miss a large chunk of pre-season. It'll also be the first time Patches faces the Bruins since Chara nearly killed him.
By the way, I gotta laugh at Pouliot wearing #67 considering. May that number burn into your fucking soul, you lunkhead shaved gorilla of a captain.
Saturday, September 24, 2011
Pre-season Game 4: scrubs
It'll take a meteor to wipe out the entire depth chart for Mitera-Woywitka to pair up in a real NHL game. Unless Jodoin can whip these boys into shape.
Team had a serious case of "we never played together"-itis. And I mean BAD.
Tonight's game was a bit of a wash, with a worse lineup then last night. But Beaulieu showed off his prowess, and Cammy showed he's rip roaring for a better season. Price is finally warmed up and ready to go and won't be the victim of green-defencemen forgetting to turn around or how to skate backwards. Archambault has great skill and should do so much better now that he's gone from Val D'Or. Palushaj played his best game so far but it's going to be tough to pick between him and Dumont. Either can stick but could just as well head back to Hamilton with their numbers on Gauthier's speed dial. Overall solid effort, piss-poor outcome, and Chris Neil is still a douche. But hey, you know it's preason when Neil scores goals. On the powerplay. (Well one was really Woywitka with the Roman Hamrlik Award for turning his feet the wrong way and deflecting in).
Only thing that CAN'T happen in real games is Gio's retaliation slash to Carkner. Doucheref ignores the high stick (two-hander) to Pleky's face but calls the slash almost right after. You know that's going to happen so just play it smart. I mean they spent the whole game ignoring Neil's invites to start shit...
Another injury: Schultz. A knee ding off the boards. Fuck man, are the Bulldogs going to have anyone left to play?
Team had a serious case of "we never played together"-itis. And I mean BAD.
Tonight's game was a bit of a wash, with a worse lineup then last night. But Beaulieu showed off his prowess, and Cammy showed he's rip roaring for a better season. Price is finally warmed up and ready to go and won't be the victim of green-defencemen forgetting to turn around or how to skate backwards. Archambault has great skill and should do so much better now that he's gone from Val D'Or. Palushaj played his best game so far but it's going to be tough to pick between him and Dumont. Either can stick but could just as well head back to Hamilton with their numbers on Gauthier's speed dial. Overall solid effort, piss-poor outcome, and Chris Neil is still a douche. But hey, you know it's preason when Neil scores goals. On the powerplay. (Well one was really Woywitka with the Roman Hamrlik Award for turning his feet the wrong way and deflecting in).
Only thing that CAN'T happen in real games is Gio's retaliation slash to Carkner. Doucheref ignores the high stick (two-hander) to Pleky's face but calls the slash almost right after. You know that's going to happen so just play it smart. I mean they spent the whole game ignoring Neil's invites to start shit...
Another injury: Schultz. A knee ding off the boards. Fuck man, are the Bulldogs going to have anyone left to play?
Friday, September 23, 2011
Pre-season Game 3: Power to the children
Max Pacioretty: 9 shots on net, two goals and an extra in the shootout. Absolutely instrumental in tonight's outcome.
Brendan Gallagher: 4 shots on net and an absolute cog on the line.
Scott Gomez: First foray into pre-season action, 6 shots on net, game tying goal to bring it into OT, and 1 assist. Centering the two kids, his line made up for 19 of the total 33 shots and the big push for a comeback.
It's only pre-season but you have to like what happened tonight. In a line up that held a combined 621 regular season games to the Sens combined 2 594 (Alfie skews it), the leaders lead the way and the kids kept digging in. As with the case with most Habs games the powerplay was the key, taking advantage of silly penalties. Similarly the start of the game was flat and full of screw ups (they keep bowling Price over and interfering with him...guess it's only comforting in knowing Henry won't be in the lineup for real), but it's getting there. Ending on a high is nothing but great for these kids. It's nothing but good news when you see (or hear) Raphael Diaz do everything to block a shot to help with the comeback. It's nothing but good news to hear how Gallagher's forechecking is causing fits. But it all starts with the powerplay: to be that strong with the man advantage without really any of your regulars in the lineup? Of course the 2nd powerplay goal was a heads up play by Lawson to Pacioretty who was out cherry picking and went in all alone on Anderson. But hey, whatever works.
I just love seeing Pacioretty playing again and looking like that dominant REAL power forward we all knew he could be. Gomez made a statement with his game. And Gallagher...it's tough knowing he's gotta go back to Junior but I can't wait to see him at the WJC.
Back at it tomorrow, against the Sens again.
Brendan Gallagher: 4 shots on net and an absolute cog on the line.
Scott Gomez: First foray into pre-season action, 6 shots on net, game tying goal to bring it into OT, and 1 assist. Centering the two kids, his line made up for 19 of the total 33 shots and the big push for a comeback.
It's only pre-season but you have to like what happened tonight. In a line up that held a combined 621 regular season games to the Sens combined 2 594 (Alfie skews it), the leaders lead the way and the kids kept digging in. As with the case with most Habs games the powerplay was the key, taking advantage of silly penalties. Similarly the start of the game was flat and full of screw ups (they keep bowling Price over and interfering with him...guess it's only comforting in knowing Henry won't be in the lineup for real), but it's getting there. Ending on a high is nothing but great for these kids. It's nothing but good news when you see (or hear) Raphael Diaz do everything to block a shot to help with the comeback. It's nothing but good news to hear how Gallagher's forechecking is causing fits. But it all starts with the powerplay: to be that strong with the man advantage without really any of your regulars in the lineup? Of course the 2nd powerplay goal was a heads up play by Lawson to Pacioretty who was out cherry picking and went in all alone on Anderson. But hey, whatever works.
I just love seeing Pacioretty playing again and looking like that dominant REAL power forward we all knew he could be. Gomez made a statement with his game. And Gallagher...it's tough knowing he's gotta go back to Junior but I can't wait to see him at the WJC.
Back at it tomorrow, against the Sens again.
Wednesday, September 21, 2011
Pre-season Game 2: The man without fear
You know their names.
Max Pacioretty, the player who nearly lost his ability to function properly let alone play the game he loves so much, stepped onto the very same ice tonight looking like his usually fast skating net-seeking self.
Josh Gorges, who finally resolved to surgery to fix his torn knees that he skated on for about 7 years, stepped back onto the ice tonight looking like his usually steady self.
The score sucked, and Lindy Ruff is an ass, but the kids are alright. While the Sabres dressed their standard NHL lineup save for 3 invisible rookies (invisible until they took many stupid penalties), the Habs tossed out the kids in all situations backed by a slightly more adept defence to give them a hand.
One coach evaluates, the other has Small Dog Syndrome:
- Guess which one? Hint: the one evaluating his crop looks like he belongs on The Office, the douchey one rhymes with Mindy Gruff.
- I missed Josh Gorges so very much.
- I'm so happy to see Patches back out there. A goal would have been nice, but he was close!
- I missed watching PK play. Puts a smile on my face everytime. Of course he scored, then launched himself into Gallagher's arms.
- Palushaj and Engqvist had a better game tonight. Palushaj was buzzing a bit more. Engqvist is like another defenceman, master of the stick check. His speed isn't in regular season form though.
- DeSimone needs a contract. Like, now. (For Hamilton).
- Holy crap Brendan Gallagher is even better than I knew he was.
- Beaulieu got over his bright-light jitters nicely and gave us a solid performance. His shot left more to be desired but once his hands stop shaking he'll be fine. Reminds me of when PK when he first walked out there. Had a team leading 27 minutes of ice time.
- Gabby Dumont: never change you little heat-seeking missile. Perfect for our 4th line one day.
- Avtsin's hands are so slick. He'll be a good one one day. Of course he's Russian so the press have already shipped him off to Columbus.
- HunterBishop can't catch a break other than breaking himself on the new boards. I love him, but he's always in the medical room.
- Seriously ref, stop waving guys out of the faceoff dot for no damn reason!
- Unfortunately for Patches he apparently needs to be thrown into a stancion and nearly paralyzed for the refs to actually call a penalty on any infraction sent his way.
- Kind of like how PK gets 2 for roughing while Myers gets nothing for doing the exact same thing. Nice to see those double-standards still exist. Consistently inconsistent!
- Desharnais looked mighty fine between Patches and Gionta. And wins faceoffs. Bad news for Gomez, but thankfully we don't need to worry about little DD.
- In need of a goal JMart had the kids out on a PP late in the 3rd to see how they would respond and they nearly rewarded him with one. Lindy Ruff would have switched goalies and put out his top line.
- Vanek with the failiest of fail moves of preseason: wide open net, shovels puck right into Budaj who wasn't even in position.
- So happy Habs didn't draft that useless slow lunkhead Kassian.
- When the game was done, RDS's awkward new addition Marc Denis said Martin will have a lot to evaluate from this and so would Lindy Ruff. It's probably easier for Ruff: his rookies sucked and took all the stupid (and sometimes dangerous) penalties.
- Gallagher's face after the game: ^_________________________________^
Next up, Friday night date with Alex the Bauld in Ottawa!
Max Pacioretty, the player who nearly lost his ability to function properly let alone play the game he loves so much, stepped onto the very same ice tonight looking like his usually fast skating net-seeking self.
Josh Gorges, who finally resolved to surgery to fix his torn knees that he skated on for about 7 years, stepped back onto the ice tonight looking like his usually steady self.
The score sucked, and Lindy Ruff is an ass, but the kids are alright. While the Sabres dressed their standard NHL lineup save for 3 invisible rookies (invisible until they took many stupid penalties), the Habs tossed out the kids in all situations backed by a slightly more adept defence to give them a hand.
One coach evaluates, the other has Small Dog Syndrome:
- Guess which one? Hint: the one evaluating his crop looks like he belongs on The Office, the douchey one rhymes with Mindy Gruff.
- I missed Josh Gorges so very much.
- I'm so happy to see Patches back out there. A goal would have been nice, but he was close!
- I missed watching PK play. Puts a smile on my face everytime. Of course he scored, then launched himself into Gallagher's arms.
- Palushaj and Engqvist had a better game tonight. Palushaj was buzzing a bit more. Engqvist is like another defenceman, master of the stick check. His speed isn't in regular season form though.
- DeSimone needs a contract. Like, now. (For Hamilton).
- Holy crap Brendan Gallagher is even better than I knew he was.
- Beaulieu got over his bright-light jitters nicely and gave us a solid performance. His shot left more to be desired but once his hands stop shaking he'll be fine. Reminds me of when PK when he first walked out there. Had a team leading 27 minutes of ice time.
- Gabby Dumont: never change you little heat-seeking missile. Perfect for our 4th line one day.
- Avtsin's hands are so slick. He'll be a good one one day. Of course he's Russian so the press have already shipped him off to Columbus.
- HunterBishop can't catch a break other than breaking himself on the new boards. I love him, but he's always in the medical room.
- Seriously ref, stop waving guys out of the faceoff dot for no damn reason!
- Unfortunately for Patches he apparently needs to be thrown into a stancion and nearly paralyzed for the refs to actually call a penalty on any infraction sent his way.
- Kind of like how PK gets 2 for roughing while Myers gets nothing for doing the exact same thing. Nice to see those double-standards still exist. Consistently inconsistent!
- Desharnais looked mighty fine between Patches and Gionta. And wins faceoffs. Bad news for Gomez, but thankfully we don't need to worry about little DD.
- In need of a goal JMart had the kids out on a PP late in the 3rd to see how they would respond and they nearly rewarded him with one. Lindy Ruff would have switched goalies and put out his top line.
- Vanek with the failiest of fail moves of preseason: wide open net, shovels puck right into Budaj who wasn't even in position.
- So happy Habs didn't draft that useless slow lunkhead Kassian.
- When the game was done, RDS's awkward new addition Marc Denis said Martin will have a lot to evaluate from this and so would Lindy Ruff. It's probably easier for Ruff: his rookies sucked and took all the stupid (and sometimes dangerous) penalties.
- Gallagher's face after the game: ^_________________________________^
Next up, Friday night date with Alex the Bauld in Ottawa!
Tuesday, September 20, 2011
Pre-season Game 1: Get yer ya-yas out
Oh glorious hockey! How good it is to see you!
Sure the gumby-legged tentative display wasn't exactly what we were hoping to see, but it's pre-season. None of these guys have played against another team since Nathan Horton's fugly face was front and center on our screen. (And if you do the "ya but" crap, please note that most of the Stars players did play in that silly rookie tournament thing). However I must congratulate the crowd: they were chill. It was refreshing. They even cheered the team politely at the end and were rocking the house when the team started waking up. This is encouraging! Perhaps they finally understood what PRE-SEASON is?
Naturally in the first wonky game it's a little difficult to make evaluations on the players considering they're rusty and aren't really up to game speed. To me, I look at how one progresses during the course of the game, especially the rookies or newly imported European players. If they show a gradual improvement, then they'll be fine. Players like Palushaj got going gradually into the 3rd after a very wary and tentative start. (He literally looked terrified at the start). Players like Massé, however, did little throughout the game to improve their position on the team and will most likely head down to Wheeling eventually.
So how about some pre-season bullet points!
- I'm very proud this crowd has finally understood what a "moment of silence" means. You could hear a pin drop during the reflections on the terrible events of this past offseason.
- RDS in fine form: starting early with their Mickey Ribs lovefest. Thank god we only see these guys once a year, and thank god it's in February.
- And yea whatever Mickey Ribs, you look fantastic going through a bunch of rusty rookies.
- Yannick Weber was the best defenceman on the ice, with the most minutes on the team and the only one (other than Tinordi) who was a plus.
- Pre-season taught this team in the 2nd that yes there was indeed a whole new world on the other side of the other blue line!
- And shoot high on Raycroft. Instant goals.
- Also pre-season taught everyone that this team still sucks at faceoffs.
- Erik Cole gets the first goal. (Hit the crossbar just before). So nice to see him victimize goaltenders for OUR team instead of victimizing our goalies...
- Andrei Kostitsyn was a beast. He showed that when he is The Man on his line he can do wonderful things. It was wonderful to see him protect the puck for long stretches of play and using nearly the entire rink to do so while having at least two guys on his back trying to get the puck, even after he circled their zone a few times and had it pushed offside he never let up. Had a killer goal that knocked the water bottle off. (Assisted by Price!)
- Woywitka was insanely happy to score a goal. Still needs work on the rest of his game but he'll make a fine injury call up.
- Defense is not throwing yourself into your goal crease and interfering with your goalie, but I'm sure you'll stop doing that right?
- Brock Trotter was the best non-starter forward but needs linemates that can follow his speed and skill. Crowd went wooooo on his spin-o-rama.
- Brock Trotter's pretty face still hasn't changed either.
- Ian Schultz made a few British fans happy. After all, they came for the fights.
- Yemelin looked good! And sent a guy cartwheeling.
- Diaz's shot is excellent. I do believe he'll be hard at work in Hamilton and will be looking at those points records PK and Weber set up.
- Poor Hal Gill was the baby sitter tonight.
- Pleky's skills are so underrated.
- Our Swiss Misters are fantastic young players with plenty of upside.
- Oh and please, Raphael Diaz, keep talking. I love the way you speak.
Tomorrow Team B takes on the Sabres. Looking forward to see how Jorje is, and how Dumont will take the bright lights of the Bell Centre. He loves that stuff.
I missed you, hockey. I really did.
Sure the gumby-legged tentative display wasn't exactly what we were hoping to see, but it's pre-season. None of these guys have played against another team since Nathan Horton's fugly face was front and center on our screen. (And if you do the "ya but" crap, please note that most of the Stars players did play in that silly rookie tournament thing). However I must congratulate the crowd: they were chill. It was refreshing. They even cheered the team politely at the end and were rocking the house when the team started waking up. This is encouraging! Perhaps they finally understood what PRE-SEASON is?
Naturally in the first wonky game it's a little difficult to make evaluations on the players considering they're rusty and aren't really up to game speed. To me, I look at how one progresses during the course of the game, especially the rookies or newly imported European players. If they show a gradual improvement, then they'll be fine. Players like Palushaj got going gradually into the 3rd after a very wary and tentative start. (He literally looked terrified at the start). Players like Massé, however, did little throughout the game to improve their position on the team and will most likely head down to Wheeling eventually.
So how about some pre-season bullet points!
- I'm very proud this crowd has finally understood what a "moment of silence" means. You could hear a pin drop during the reflections on the terrible events of this past offseason.
- RDS in fine form: starting early with their Mickey Ribs lovefest. Thank god we only see these guys once a year, and thank god it's in February.
- And yea whatever Mickey Ribs, you look fantastic going through a bunch of rusty rookies.
- Yannick Weber was the best defenceman on the ice, with the most minutes on the team and the only one (other than Tinordi) who was a plus.
- Pre-season taught this team in the 2nd that yes there was indeed a whole new world on the other side of the other blue line!
- And shoot high on Raycroft. Instant goals.
- Also pre-season taught everyone that this team still sucks at faceoffs.
- Erik Cole gets the first goal. (Hit the crossbar just before). So nice to see him victimize goaltenders for OUR team instead of victimizing our goalies...
- Andrei Kostitsyn was a beast. He showed that when he is The Man on his line he can do wonderful things. It was wonderful to see him protect the puck for long stretches of play and using nearly the entire rink to do so while having at least two guys on his back trying to get the puck, even after he circled their zone a few times and had it pushed offside he never let up. Had a killer goal that knocked the water bottle off. (Assisted by Price!)
- Woywitka was insanely happy to score a goal. Still needs work on the rest of his game but he'll make a fine injury call up.
- Defense is not throwing yourself into your goal crease and interfering with your goalie, but I'm sure you'll stop doing that right?
- Brock Trotter was the best non-starter forward but needs linemates that can follow his speed and skill. Crowd went wooooo on his spin-o-rama.
- Brock Trotter's pretty face still hasn't changed either.
- Ian Schultz made a few British fans happy. After all, they came for the fights.
- Yemelin looked good! And sent a guy cartwheeling.
- Diaz's shot is excellent. I do believe he'll be hard at work in Hamilton and will be looking at those points records PK and Weber set up.
- Poor Hal Gill was the baby sitter tonight.
- Pleky's skills are so underrated.
- Our Swiss Misters are fantastic young players with plenty of upside.
- Oh and please, Raphael Diaz, keep talking. I love the way you speak.
Tomorrow Team B takes on the Sabres. Looking forward to see how Jorje is, and how Dumont will take the bright lights of the Bell Centre. He loves that stuff.
I missed you, hockey. I really did.
Saturday, September 17, 2011
Training Day
He's not fat! He's just well rounded.
Seriously though, "Yemelin" is actually Russian for "Mack Truck". All that flab is really a protective layer of thick skin. I wouldn't get too worried about his apparent physique. After all, he spins around the rink like he's walking on air, survived years on the big KHL ice without much problem including World Championships, and hits like a battering ram on nitro.
Actually the purpose of training camp should be to see who survives encounters with the Gremelin. I think he hit everyone not in goalie gear today.
Will be interesting to see his work in actual game action.
Tuesday, September 13, 2011
Coming soon...
Rookie camp is underway and tomorrow the regulars head out to the golf course for their annual charity golf thingy. You know, so we can giggle as Gionta steps out of a Hummer.
It's time for the preseason freakout! Today's special: Andrei Markov was seen skating with the two injured rookies, Louis Leblanc and Olivier Fortier. (Well I say injured but they're actually recovering). Because it obviously means he's still injured, right? I mean, he couldn't just be out there having a leisurely spin on his skates with two rookies on the mend who could use a good boost by an All Star like Markov who spent so long trying to heal his own injuries so he could rejoin his team. In any case it won't hurt anyone if Markov skips most of exhibition. Hamr did it all the time.
I have to say, I'm really cool with Clement Jodoin who spent some time today talking with the media at camp. Actually it's this quote that should be printed out and glued to the desks of every Montreal media-type:
It's time for the preseason freakout! Today's special: Andrei Markov was seen skating with the two injured rookies, Louis Leblanc and Olivier Fortier. (Well I say injured but they're actually recovering). Because it obviously means he's still injured, right? I mean, he couldn't just be out there having a leisurely spin on his skates with two rookies on the mend who could use a good boost by an All Star like Markov who spent so long trying to heal his own injuries so he could rejoin his team. In any case it won't hurt anyone if Markov skips most of exhibition. Hamr did it all the time.
I have to say, I'm really cool with Clement Jodoin who spent some time today talking with the media at camp. Actually it's this quote that should be printed out and glued to the desks of every Montreal media-type:
“You can weigh 225 pounds, but not have much of an impact on the ice. At the same time you can weigh 170 pounds and be throwing other players around. What would you say is better?” asked Jodoin when faced with a question regarding the organization’s reputation for having small statured players. “There comes a point when it’s no longer about how big a player is, but how big of a contribution he can make to your team. 170 pounds of muscle can do a lot of good.”It's almost time, folks! And tomorrow the only thing I want to learn from the golf tourney is whether Carey Price accepted Alouettes wide receiver Kerry Watkin's bowling challenge or not. Carey VS Kerry!
Saturday, September 10, 2011
I turned on my TV...
...and there was hockey being played! Yea it was just the BabyBlues and BabyRags at the Traverse City tourney but whatever.
HOCKEY HOCKEY JOY JOY!
Thursday, September 8, 2011
Are you tough enough?
Le sigh...
Once again I choked on the snide remarks of a local radio host on the official home of the Canadiens about toughness and the Habs supposed lack of. It was in response to what Chicago "did" by signing idiots like Carcillo because they felt they were pushed around by the Canucks in the playoffs. After all, Pierre McGuire convincingly said it was the truth so it must be so! Never mind how drained Keith was, how concussed Seabrook was, how injured Sharp was, how much of a hole Bolland left, how strangely invisible Kane was, and how inept Campoli was. No no they were pushed around! Manhandled! Who knew you couldn't win a series with just Toews and Crawford as your only capable players. Who knew gutting the team of important members from their Cup run would bring about such an outcome. No! It was the reckless, should-have-been-suspended actions of Raffi Torres. Yes that's right! One man!
Gimme a break.
Sure, I'll agree having Montador on their D will definitely help more than having Campoli out there in OT... And Mayers is ok but not a game changer. But Carcillo? Is he there to keep John Scott company? A goon that spends more time taking stupid penalties and not playing in the playoffs is toughness? Exactly what did John Scott prove when he was finally put back in the lineup other than his slow footspeed?
You wanna know what toughness is?
Travis Moen took a skate to the face and needed over 50 stitches. He nary missed a game. Josh Gorges blocked a rocket of a shot with the back of his head where the puck left an imprint in his helmet. He was the first one out on practice the next day as if nothing happened. Tomas Plekanec is at war with Dion Phaneuf and has landed the neanderthal on his ass more times than Phaneuf ever tossed him into the boards. Of course the greatest maneuver Plekanec has on Phaneuf is his ability to blow right past him. I would also like to bring to your attention the many hooks, holds, and high sticks he fights through where instead of spending his time flailing (like a Canuck) he continues on. He wears those feet protectors to protect against players slashing him on faceoffs. Would you dare question Mike Cammalleri's competitive drive? How about looking Brian Gionta in the eye and tell him that because he's small he's soft? Just try it.
Toughness is Lars Eller popping his shoulder back into place as he's taking a faceoff, regardless of the fact that he's Danish. Apparently being Danish is something Glenn Healy claimed was more adept in a coffee shop.
Toughness is PK Subban's smile in the face of irrational hate and false accusations as he scores a clutch goal or knocks an "untouchable" superstar on his backside.
Toughness is Carey Price cowboy-ing up.
Toughness is Yannick Weber textbook-checking Milan Lucic into the boards and skating away with the puck. It's David Desharnais having guys bounce off his little robust frame and giving them the stink eye. It's Ryan White giving the thumbs up in the penalty box. It's Mathieu Darche's heart of gold.
Toughness is Max Pacioretty stepping back onto the ice this October.
Toughness isn't just physical. Toughness is standing up for an identity that says skill, intelligence, and the will to compete is how the game should be played. It's not rock'em sock'em. It's not Slap Shot. It's not Don Cherry. Toughness is skill. Toughness is grit. Toughness is the ability to compete with the guys next to you.
I for one commend the Habs for their identity. But to this radio host it apparently means I'm naive, just like the team.
Funny thing, though. I seem to remember in that season the Canadiens showed the Presidents Trophy Canucks that there's more to the NHL than just playing the Oilers every week...
Once again I choked on the snide remarks of a local radio host on the official home of the Canadiens about toughness and the Habs supposed lack of. It was in response to what Chicago "did" by signing idiots like Carcillo because they felt they were pushed around by the Canucks in the playoffs. After all, Pierre McGuire convincingly said it was the truth so it must be so! Never mind how drained Keith was, how concussed Seabrook was, how injured Sharp was, how much of a hole Bolland left, how strangely invisible Kane was, and how inept Campoli was. No no they were pushed around! Manhandled! Who knew you couldn't win a series with just Toews and Crawford as your only capable players. Who knew gutting the team of important members from their Cup run would bring about such an outcome. No! It was the reckless, should-have-been-suspended actions of Raffi Torres. Yes that's right! One man!
Gimme a break.
Sure, I'll agree having Montador on their D will definitely help more than having Campoli out there in OT... And Mayers is ok but not a game changer. But Carcillo? Is he there to keep John Scott company? A goon that spends more time taking stupid penalties and not playing in the playoffs is toughness? Exactly what did John Scott prove when he was finally put back in the lineup other than his slow footspeed?
You wanna know what toughness is?
Travis Moen took a skate to the face and needed over 50 stitches. He nary missed a game. Josh Gorges blocked a rocket of a shot with the back of his head where the puck left an imprint in his helmet. He was the first one out on practice the next day as if nothing happened. Tomas Plekanec is at war with Dion Phaneuf and has landed the neanderthal on his ass more times than Phaneuf ever tossed him into the boards. Of course the greatest maneuver Plekanec has on Phaneuf is his ability to blow right past him. I would also like to bring to your attention the many hooks, holds, and high sticks he fights through where instead of spending his time flailing (like a Canuck) he continues on. He wears those feet protectors to protect against players slashing him on faceoffs. Would you dare question Mike Cammalleri's competitive drive? How about looking Brian Gionta in the eye and tell him that because he's small he's soft? Just try it.
Toughness is Lars Eller popping his shoulder back into place as he's taking a faceoff, regardless of the fact that he's Danish. Apparently being Danish is something Glenn Healy claimed was more adept in a coffee shop.
Toughness is PK Subban's smile in the face of irrational hate and false accusations as he scores a clutch goal or knocks an "untouchable" superstar on his backside.
Toughness is Carey Price cowboy-ing up.
Toughness is Yannick Weber textbook-checking Milan Lucic into the boards and skating away with the puck. It's David Desharnais having guys bounce off his little robust frame and giving them the stink eye. It's Ryan White giving the thumbs up in the penalty box. It's Mathieu Darche's heart of gold.
Toughness is Max Pacioretty stepping back onto the ice this October.
Toughness isn't just physical. Toughness is standing up for an identity that says skill, intelligence, and the will to compete is how the game should be played. It's not rock'em sock'em. It's not Slap Shot. It's not Don Cherry. Toughness is skill. Toughness is grit. Toughness is the ability to compete with the guys next to you.
I for one commend the Habs for their identity. But to this radio host it apparently means I'm naive, just like the team.
Funny thing, though. I seem to remember in that season the Canadiens showed the Presidents Trophy Canucks that there's more to the NHL than just playing the Oilers every week...
Wednesday, September 7, 2011
Dear Hockey Gods...
You have been absolutely brutal this 2011.
Tom Cavanagh. Derek Boogaard. Rick Rypien. Wade Belak. And now the entire Yaroslavl Lokomotiv team has perished when their suspected over-weight Yak-42 failed to reach proper altitude on takeoff, struck a radio tower, and plunged into the riverbank of the Volga river, bursting into flames.
The youngest player on the plane was 18. His name was Maxim Shuvalov.
Rouyn-Noranda Huskies forward Sergei Ostapchuk was on the plane. Upon hearing news of his death his poor mother died of a heart attack.
Captain Belarus Ruslan Salei was on that plane. They were heading for their first game of the season in Minsk and had called ahead for tickets to give to his friends and family.
Karlis Skrastins was on that plane. Once upon a time I nicknamed him "Scratches" because of his name.
Two members of the merry Russian Junior Team were on that plane. Making that gold medal win all the more memorable.
Stefan Liv, the adopted Polish orphan and Swedish goaltender in the Detroit system was on that plane. He was fairly decorated on the world stage.
Defenceman Alexander Galimov was reported to have survived the crash, but he was in critical condition with burns over 80% of his body. His present condition is unknown with mixed reports saying he has passed while others claim he hasn't. All we can do is hope he's still fighting.
Mr. Lady Byng and NHL All Star Pavol Demitra was on that plane. He recently announced his retirement from international play and represented Slovakia for the last time at the 2011 World Championships where the tournament was hosted. The crowd gave him an ovation.
Josef Vasicek was on that plane, Stanley Cup winner with Carolina in 2006.
Brad McCrimmon was on that plane. After a long NHL career and Cup champ with the Flames in 89, he was ready to start his life as a head coach. Lokomotiv was to be his first team.
The entire team. The entire coaching staff. Their support staff. The entire crew save one attendant who's status is currently unknown. All gone on a journey that was to mark the start of their season. A celebration turned tragedy in the blink of an eye. Fans brought flowers, candles, and prayers to early vigils at local arenas. The Opening Cup, a sort of rematch between the two final teams of last season, was interrupted; players bowed their heads and removed their helmets, weeping at the loss together with their fans. Players and hockey fans around the world joined them, devastated at the loss of life. Once again the hockey world is in mourning and the general feeling is numbness.
Dear Hockey Gods, why have you forsaken us?
Tom Cavanagh. Derek Boogaard. Rick Rypien. Wade Belak. And now the entire Yaroslavl Lokomotiv team has perished when their suspected over-weight Yak-42 failed to reach proper altitude on takeoff, struck a radio tower, and plunged into the riverbank of the Volga river, bursting into flames.
The youngest player on the plane was 18. His name was Maxim Shuvalov.
Rouyn-Noranda Huskies forward Sergei Ostapchuk was on the plane. Upon hearing news of his death his poor mother died of a heart attack.
Captain Belarus Ruslan Salei was on that plane. They were heading for their first game of the season in Minsk and had called ahead for tickets to give to his friends and family.
Karlis Skrastins was on that plane. Once upon a time I nicknamed him "Scratches" because of his name.
Two members of the merry Russian Junior Team were on that plane. Making that gold medal win all the more memorable.
Stefan Liv, the adopted Polish orphan and Swedish goaltender in the Detroit system was on that plane. He was fairly decorated on the world stage.
Defenceman Alexander Galimov was reported to have survived the crash, but he was in critical condition with burns over 80% of his body. His present condition is unknown with mixed reports saying he has passed while others claim he hasn't. All we can do is hope he's still fighting.
Mr. Lady Byng and NHL All Star Pavol Demitra was on that plane. He recently announced his retirement from international play and represented Slovakia for the last time at the 2011 World Championships where the tournament was hosted. The crowd gave him an ovation.
Josef Vasicek was on that plane, Stanley Cup winner with Carolina in 2006.
Brad McCrimmon was on that plane. After a long NHL career and Cup champ with the Flames in 89, he was ready to start his life as a head coach. Lokomotiv was to be his first team.
The entire team. The entire coaching staff. Their support staff. The entire crew save one attendant who's status is currently unknown. All gone on a journey that was to mark the start of their season. A celebration turned tragedy in the blink of an eye. Fans brought flowers, candles, and prayers to early vigils at local arenas. The Opening Cup, a sort of rematch between the two final teams of last season, was interrupted; players bowed their heads and removed their helmets, weeping at the loss together with their fans. Players and hockey fans around the world joined them, devastated at the loss of life. Once again the hockey world is in mourning and the general feeling is numbness.
Dear Hockey Gods, why have you forsaken us?
Thursday, September 1, 2011
And that's the kind of day it's been...
Went on a day trip to Burlington, Vermont. Kind of a mommy/daughter day! I discovered a few things:
1 - Flooding sucks. Thankfully I can read maps and we didn't take the road through New York that would have stranded us that side of Lake Champlain because mom wanted to take a ferry.
2 - My mom told me she doesn't need a GPS because she has me. I think she still needs one for those times I'm not in a car. (Hint: she once read a ski map upside down)
3 - Vermont Bruins fans look like major bandwagoners. Of course the University clothes shop on Church Street (umm...) is chock full of Tiny Tim Vermont crap that I bet was never there before.
4 - I still get a laugh at the shock of tasting American iced tea.
5 - Nothing like a bankruptcy sale to get people to buy real actual paper books. (Borders! Everything must go! Including the coffee machine!)
6 - Record stores are creepy. Especially the ones that make you go below street level.
7 - Border guards get mighty suspicious when you enter the country through one border then decide to exit through another.
8 - But it was a shorter travel time that way!
9 - And my mom wanted to ride the ferry! (Just ended up taking a different ferry).
10 - It's not the Champlain Bridge that should scare you. THE FUCKING TURCOT INTERCHANGE BOUNCES!!!! STAY AWAY!!!!!!!!
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