NHL '09 - '10 Thread

[chippewastud79]

The Wings were very impressive last night. Constant pressure on the puck, excellent back-checking, crisp passes, fluid, etc. On the other hand, the 'Yotes came out flat, and played seemingly uninspired hockey which is a real shame for a game 7. I couldn't believe their reluctance to dumping the puck in deep and pressuring the defense and trying to work the boards...carrying the puck into the zone clearly wasn't working. After surviving the 1st period, they needed to show some spark to shift the pressure they had to feel. Didn't happen. If I were a 'Yotes fan, I would have been pi$$ed at that performance.
Congrats to the Wings fans.

And I told you my ability to predict games was...:td

:r

The fans were pissed in the second period when they got down 2-0, the fans were booing the home team. The Red Wings did a great job keeping the pressure on from the beginning and kept the crowd out of it for the entire game. The Desert Dogs looked very flat the whole game and the only sign of life was after their goal. The Wings looked great, I just hope they can carry that momentum into San Jose and come home atleast 1-1. :tu

So nice to actually be able to watch an entire hockey game on TV and not streamed on the internet. Cincinnati cable carriers suck :td

[kugie]

All this Canada and U.S. banter going on let's just end it and Let Canada Be the 51st state.:r:r

:D:D

[68TriShield]

Guess who I am rooting for in the Habs-Caps game tonight? ;) :r
Doh!

[ChicagoWhiteSox]

All this Canada and U.S. banter going on let's just end it and Let Canada Be the 51st state.:r:r

:D:D



No thanks;)

[dabigdog]

Wow you sure see things from one side only. "yankees suck" /americans suck is having fun? Was booing the US national anthem during the world jrs in vancouver also in fun? It started a whole anthem booing fiasco back and forth.

No provocation? Your arena is chanting Americans suck and I can't comment on it? You think it's unprovoked for me to comment on it and it's somehow americans fault. Guess it's something in the water up there.

you know what my response would be if san jose was chanting Canadians suck. It's immatuer, classless and unacceptable. Sounds like it will happen again.


as to the game Yotes not looking so good.

Buddy, I'm ONLY referring to myself and the banter going on in this thread. With respect to provocation, I was referring to YOUR comments (I hadn't said anything derogatory in this thread about the US). If you want to turn this into something else, go ahead, but I'm not playing. Chill out a bit....LOL.

[dabigdog]

Make it 5 and I am in....that's my standard sports bet, and I do have other bets going. You should just send me your address now since you seem so certain the Hawks don't stand a chance.

My breakdown on this one?

Forwards: I think this is Vancouver's biggest strength, epsecially the 3rd and 4th lines. Both teams are stacked on the top two. The Sedins and Samuelsson and all playing great hockey, Kessler is a great two-way player, and Burrows scored 31 goals this season. I give the Canucks the edge offensively with their depth...Demitra, Raymond, some good support players.

Hawks have Toews, Kane, Hossa, Sharp, Versteeg...but some of their role players like Brouwer and Bolland need to get their heads into the game. Eager and Frasier will probably sit in favor of Burish and Bickell...Burish's only potential upside will be getting Canucks to punch him in the face and draw some penalties.

Slight edge to Vancouver.

Defense: I am not even going to go through the individuals...the Hawks defense outclasses Vancouver's by a wide margin.

Bid edge to the Hawks.

Goalies: Luongo's big game experience gives him the mental edge over Niemi. Hawks need a good net presence to be effective against him...maybe moving Byfuglein back to forward will be necessary.

Edge to Vancouver.

So the bottom line will be, can the Hawks limit the Canucks chances enough to keep their shots on goal totals low and allow Niemi to have an easier time than Luongo? That's the million dollar question.

I will take the Hawks in 7.


Well thought out analysis. I agree with the Analysis with respect to forwards and goaltending. I also believe your D is stronger than ours, but when Sopel is in your top 4 (I might be hazy on whether he's top for or 5), I couldn't say your D outclasses ours by a wide margin with a straight face.

It's going to be a close series (6 or 7 games). I will take the Canucks in 6.

5 Sticks is fine by me. May the better team win !! :banger

[dabigdog]

Blackhawk playoff tickets went on sale for potential rounds 3 and 4 this morning. It was absolutely insane trying to connect to the Ticketmaster site, all the brokers must have had things tied up but good. Hoped to score tickets for 3 or 4 games, LOL...ended up with one, and a longshot to boot...but if it comes to fruition, it will likely save me thousands over what I would have been willing to spend. Here's the low percentage scenario:

If the Capitals do not make the Finals

and

The Blackhawks do make the Finals

and

It goes to a Game 7

Then I will have a pair of face value tickets.

Guess who I am rooting for in the Habs-Caps game tonight? ;) :r

Fly to Vancouver and we'll go to a game. :D:D

[GHC_Hambone]

Blackhawk playoff tickets went on sale for potential rounds 3 and 4 this morning. It was absolutely insane trying to connect to the Ticketmaster site, all the brokers must have had things tied up but good. Hoped to score tickets for 3 or 4 games, LOL...ended up with one, and a longshot to boot...but if it comes to fruition, it will likely save me thousands over what I would have been willing to spend. Here's the low percentage scenario:

If the Capitals do not make the Finals

and

The Blackhawks do make the Finals

and

It goes to a Game 7

Then I will have a pair of face value tickets.

Guess who I am rooting for in the Habs-Caps game tonight? ;) :r

Go Habs! :p

[Eleven]

I am a virtual life-long Penguins fan, recent era (Toews/Kane) Chicago fan, and tonight I think I am more of a Habs fan than ever!

So you can guess who I want to see in the Finals! 1992 all over again! :)

[Mpython24]

As a Pens fan, i gotta root for the Canadiens tonight.

[Ahbroody]

I like Ovi more than Cindy so I am a caps fan tonight. Would love to see Ovi and the Caps take out Cindy and the Pens later, but the Pens are going to be tough. Looking like the next incarnation of the Wings.

Tom anytime you want to come out to san jose I got a ticket here for you to any of the games finals included if I we end up being that lucky. Just hop a flight brother.

[yourchoice]

Tom anytime you want to come out to san jose I got a ticket here for you to any of the games finals included if I we end up being that lucky. Just hop a flight brother.

If it's a Sharks/Hawks Western Conference Final, I'd love to see the Hog on TV wearing a Hawks jersey in San Jose! :tu Very generous. :tu

[Ahbroody]

May need to place some rules. Although I think the big boy could handle himself if a fight broke out. :r

putting the weeman in summer hockey. Friggin 575.00 for just over 3 months of hockey. Ice time is so damn expensive out here.

[mithrilG60]

seeing as how were taking bets and taking chair shots, what's the over under on how long it takes canuck fan to run anti american smack when they lose? I hope they get more creative then "yankees suck!" this time.

Does the rest of Canada face palm that city. I know America jr. secretly hates us, but atleast the rest of the country keeps quiet about it.

Considering there's more players from British Columbia on the Hawks than there are on the Canucks, I tend to doubt that'll happen. This isn't international play, nationality has nothing to do with it (if it did Kesler would have been run out of town after his "I hate Canada" comments while representing your country in the Olympics :rolleyes: ). Besides, what would be the point..... as we proved in Feb, hockey's our game regardless of where the team winning the Cup happens to be based ;)

I'm calling Chicago in 6.

[icehog3]

I also believe your D is stronger than ours, but when Sopel is in your top 4 (I might be hazy on whether he's top for or 5), I couldn't say your D outclasses ours by a wide margin with a straight face.

It's going to be a close series (6 or 7 games). I will take the Canucks in 6.

5 Sticks is fine by me. May the better team win !!

Top 4 on the Hawks are Keith, Seabrook, Hjalmarsson and Campbell. If Johnsson is healthy, Sopel is #6. That being said, Sopel has been an amazing penalty killer all season long, I personally love the guy.

Cool on the bet, win or lose, it will be fun. :)

Fly to Vancouver and we'll go to a game. :D:D

Wish I could! I can't even go to Game 1 in Chicago because of a stupid leg injury.

I am a virtual life-long Penguins fan, recent era (Toews/Kane) Chicago fan, and tonight I think I am more of a Habs fan than ever!

So you can guess who I want to see in the Finals! 1992 all over again! :)

That would rock!


Tom anytime you want to come out to san jose I got a ticket here for you to any of the games finals included if I we end up being that lucky. Just hop a flight brother.

Mike, I would fly out there for that, I almost drove to the Joe and scalped a ticket last year for Game 7 of the Finals. It would be great to meet and hang out, and watch some hockey. I even still have my Jimmy Waite Sharks jersey!


Now...somebody stop this man!!!

http://i196.photobucket.com/albums/aa73/icehog3/ovechkin.jpg

[0002S]

Go Habs

[Ahbroody]

Considering there's more players from British Columbia on the Hawks than there are on the Canucks, I tend to doubt that'll happen. This isn't international play, nationality has nothing to do with it (if it did Kesler would have been run out of town after his "I hate Canada" comments while representing your country in the Olympics :rolleyes: ). Besides, what would be the point..... as we proved in Feb, hockey's our game regardless of where the team winning the Cup happens to be based ;)

I'm calling Chicago in 6.

I'm pretty sure there are canadian players on the kings. Infact I know there are and it didn't stop the arena from chanting "yankees suck" when they lost. So your international play comment doesn't really hold any weight.

as to the other stuff no one will ever argue hockey isn't your game. It's our fourth sport here in the states behind football, baseball, and basketball, in that order. For it being our 4th sport I think our boys did all right but that's not what my post was about. You will find it shocking but not a lot of kids play the game here. In a city of almost 1 million people here there were roughly 50 kids between the age of 4 to 6 who played ice hockey this year.

my post was about vancouvers recent history of anti american chants in both international and nhl play. Was it a poke and kind of a trolling post? Yup, but to be honest it's troubling to see it keep happening up there when it isn't happening down here.

I think your kessler comment was that he hates playing the canadians and hates the team. He was not saying he hates canadians. Even if so that is one loud mouth person speaking poorly.

[icehog3]

Halak doing it again, 1-0 Habs after 2.....Go Habs!! :tu

[jmsremax]

Halak doing it again, 1-0 Habs after 2.....Go Habs!! :tu

Agreed....for the Bruins sake!

[loki]

Now...somebody stop this man!!!

http://i196.photobucket.com/albums/aa73/icehog3/ovechkin.jpg

I'm breaking my own rule about posting in this thread just to say it seems like a gentle breeze can stop him when it really counts. When you absolutely, positively have to choke except no imitations
http://i196.photobucket.com/albums/aa73/icehog3/ovechkin.jpg


sid forver, ovi never

[icehog3]

At least not 2010...Congrats to the Habs. :)

[icehog3]

http://i196.photobucket.com/albums/aa73/icehog3/ovechkincries.jpg

[mithrilG60]

I'm pretty sure there are canadian players on the kings. Infact I know there are and it didn't stop the arena from chanting "yankees suck" when they lost. So your international play comment doesn't really hold any weight.

I hadn't heard anything about that, it certainly didn't get any play here. That said, sadly it doesn't surprise me as Vancouver has, in my personal experience some of the worst fans in the NHL when it comes to crass and idiotic behaviour.

I think your kessler comment was that he hates playing the canadians and hates the team. He was not saying he hates canadians. Even if so that is one loud mouth person speaking poorly.

Meh, that was a comment in the same vein as your good natured trolling. Personally I could care less since: a) it was just lockeroom trash talk to inspire his team, b) I may live here but Vancouver's not my team.... my team just finished putting the sword to the Caps :banger.-

However Kesler's "anti-Canadian" comments it played VERY poorly in the media and fan base, probably because there was so much media grousing about Canadian's being too patriotic during the Olympics. In regards to Kesler it went over badly enough that there was quite a vocal lobby calling for him to be offloaded before the trade deadline. Of course, in true Vancouver bandwagon fan fashion, that's all disappeared now.

[Ahbroody]

wow talk about epic fail. I can do this as this was my sharks last year and why 50% of the team is new. Just didn't see them tanking in the first round. Congrats to the Habs they looked all but dead and pulled off a shocking upset. How bizarre in the west 1 2 3 5 advance. In the east 4 6 7 8 &dvance. That is really the cap on a very strange first round.

Geoff I hear yah. Nothing wrong with a little trolling on the interweb. :r

Tom good to hear. l launched most of my round 2 seats as with this team I won't care till round 3 or 4. That said I will have 2 games available for both the last rounds and you are welcome to 1.

[icehog3]

Tom good to hear. l launched most of my round 2 seats as with this team I won't care till round 3 or 4. That said I will have 2 games available for both the last rounds and you are welcome to 1.

That is awesome, Mike...looks like I will be looking at some Expedia if the Sharks (and hopefully the Hawks) advance. :)

[icehog3]

From ESPN.com:

Dustin Byfuglien, whom the Chicago Blackhawks moved to defense in March, is moving back to forward to begin the Western Conference semifinal series against the Vancouver Canucks.

Byfuglien played a key role in the conference semifinals against the Canucks last season, scoring two goals and an assist as the Blackhawks won in six games. He often set up in front of Vancouver's net and seemed to get under the skin of goaltender Roberto Luongo.

[ChicagoWhiteSox]

From ESPN.com:

:wo:wo

Good luck sweet Lou;)

[icehog3]

http://i196.photobucket.com/albums/aa73/icehog3/dustin-byfuglien.jpg

[Eleven]

Missed this game tonight, was the second night of tryouts for my sons team for next year.

Had a great tryout, a couple of new prospects for the team for next year and then to top it off, the capitals lose!

Now that Halak has played out of his mind, its time to come back to earth so the Penguins can move on!

:)

[icehog3]

Missed this game tonight, was the second night of tryouts for my sons team for next year.

Had a great tryout, a couple of new prospects for the team for next year and then to top it off, the capitals lose!

Now that Halak has played out of his mind, its time to come back to earth so the Penguins can move on!

:)

Halak will have to stand on his head for the Habs to get past the Pens. :2

[icehog3]

Not a single night without hockey, Sharks - Wings tomorrow night. It has been the only sanity-saving grace besides CA and cigars since I have been off work. Looking forward to what should be an awesome series! :ih

[icehog3]

Blackhawk playoff tickets went on sale for potential rounds 3 and 4 this morning. It was absolutely insane trying to connect to the Ticketmaster site, all the brokers must have had things tied up but good. Hoped to score tickets for 3 or 4 games, LOL...ended up with one, and a longshot to boot...but if it comes to fruition, it will likely save me thousands over what I would have been willing to spend. Here's the low percentage scenario:

If the Capitals do not make the Finals

and

The Blackhawks do make the Finals

and

It goes to a Game 7

Then I will have a pair of face value tickets.

Guess who I am rooting for in the Habs-Caps game tonight? ;) :r

One down. ;) :r

[icehog3]

Let's get it ON!!

http://i196.photobucket.com/albums/aa73/icehog3/sharks4.jpg

http://i196.photobucket.com/albums/aa73/icehog3/sharks3.jpg

http://i196.photobucket.com/albums/aa73/icehog3/sharks2.jpg

http://i196.photobucket.com/albums/aa73/icehog3/sharks.jpg

http://i196.photobucket.com/albums/aa73/icehog3/sharks5.jpg

[0002S]

Go WINGS!

[kugie]

WOW!! I never would have thought it that the Bruins would get a home series in this playoffs.
Congrats to the HABs
Now Bring on the Flyers!!!!!
Should be a good Series. I am sure the Flyers wanted the Bruins as well instead of getting the Caps...
ROUND 2 Ding ding ding!!!!!

[yourchoice]

Not a single night without hockey, Sharks - Wings tomorrow night. It has been the only sanity-saving grace besides CA and cigars since I have been off work.

It is awesome, but I am becoming sleep-deprived! :sleep::r They said on the Versus telecast that last night's game was the 49th of the post season so far. I must have watched at least a good portion (if not the entire televised game) of 30-35 of them. :banger

[Eleven]

I read this interesting stat on NHL.com this morning.

"The Capitals led 3-1 in the series a week ago, but on Wednesday at 9:37 p.m. ET they officially became the first top-seeded team in NHL history to blow a 3-1 series lead to the eighth seed."

Ouch. Not the kind of record I think Ovie was hoping for on his resume'.

[yourchoice]

Me and a friend of mine make picks for each round (friendly wager :)). I figured I'd share my 2nd round picks (remember, I am not very good at this! :r).

East:
Pens in 5. ---> Could go one of two ways for the Habs. 1) Ride the momentum, 2) Letdown after the emotional series. I'm guessing the latter.

Bruins in 7 ---> As hard as I will be rooting for the Flyers, I think the extended time off will cool Boucher off. I do think the Flyers' style could help shake Rask...Carcillo, Richards, and Hartnell could really drive him nuts based on how emotional he gets. Hopefully they don't take any dumb penalties doing so. This is one series I am seriously hoping I am wrong about. :) Luckily I won't have to root for the $ because my buddy picked the same as I did. :hm

Wings in 6 ---> Should be a great series. If the Wings play four games anywhere near the level they played game 7 against the 'Yotes they should pull this series off. Funny, I will be rooting for the Sharks, but I just see the Wings winning the series.

Hawks in 7 ---> Although I think Kane's propensity to turn the puck over will eventually bite the Hawks bad (saw it in the Olympics and saw more of it in the 1st round), I just think the Hawks defensemen depth will carry them through what I think will be a great series. I'm hoping it is nearly as entertaining as I think it could be.

Looking at these picks overall...the only team I will be "rooting for" that I actually picked is the Hawks, as I'm hoping it's Habs/Flyers/Sharks/Hawks advancing to the Conference Finals.

And here's to wishing good health to all of the teams. :chr

[Ahbroody]

I really think it depends on what Sharks team shows up/ if the first line decides to grow a pair and play with some heart as to whether Det will be able to have a game like they did in game 7 against the Yotes. In watching that game the Yotes were content to dump it in from center and try to chase the puck. The Wings ate them alive. If the Sharks think they can do that they will also get beat easy.

With the Sharks recent history of losing the first game in the their last four playoff series thats not a good omen.

I just dropped over 120.00 on a new pair of skates for a 4 year old. LOL what is it about this sport that does this.

[GreekGodX]

Something I was thinking about today.. Why is it that the top teams in the NHL don't produce in the playoffs? You have a team like Washington, who dominated the league and led in scoring. Why is it that they aren't built to win in the playoffs? Why is there a different type of hockey to be played in the playoffs? During the regular season you have a much more open game. Playoffs come and everyone is parked in front of the net on Offense and Defense just waiting for that one chance. Consequently because of the tight play in front of the net there is one team that dominates puck time but the other team just continually dumps the puck into the other zone again waiting for that one chance.

I'm not saying I don't like the postseason but something needs to be changed. If they want a higher scoring game, fast pace, and a more open game (like the regular season). Why do all the teams revert to a more puck controlled, defense oriented game?

[yourchoice]

Something I was thinking about today.. Why is it that the top teams in the NHL don't produce in the playoffs? You have a team like Washington, who dominated the league and led in scoring. Why is it that they aren't built to win in the playoffs? Why is there a different type of hockey to be played in the playoffs? During the regular season you have a much more open game. Playoffs come and everyone is parked in front of the net on Offense and Defense just waiting for that one chance. Consequently because of the tight play in front of the net there is one team that dominates puck time but the other team just continually dumps the puck into the other zone again waiting for that one chance.

I'm not saying I don't like the postseason but something needs to be changed. If they want a higher scoring game, fast pace, and a more open game (like the regular season). Why do all the teams revert to a more puck controlled, defense oriented game?

Simplistically, I think it has a lot to do with sacrifice. During the regular season, players may not layout to stop a slapshot as frequently. They may not go into the corner quite as hard. They may make a blind pass instead of taking a hit to make the safer, often correct play. A lot of those types of plays slow the game down creating bouncing pucks and a slower pace of play.

To me, I prefer the post-season game to the regular season. Not only for the intensity and the importance of each game, but I prefer the style of play....the players play tougher. Sorry to bring this up Mike, but if Marleau "bunny hops" in the regular season, it may be talked about for a week...maybe that long. When it happens in the post season it's talked about for a year. In the regular season, in the long run, hopping may have been the right play (keep your stars healthy (pun intended ;)) and live to fight another day. In the post season? Not by a long shot.

:2

[kugie]

Simplistically, I think it has a lot to do with sacrifice. During the regular season, players may not layout to stop a slapshot as frequently. They may not go into the corner quite as hard. They may make a blind pass instead of taking a hit to make the safer, often correct play. A lot of those types of plays slow the game down creating bouncing pucks and a slower pace of play.

To me, I prefer the post-season game to the regular season. Not only for the intensity and the importance of each game, but I prefer the style of play....the players play tougher. Sorry to bring this up Mike, but if Marleau "bunny hops" in the regular season, it may be talked about for a week...maybe that long. When it happens in the post season it's talked about for a year. In the regular season, in the long run, hopping may have been the right play (keep your stars healthy (pun intended ;)) and live to fight another day. In the post season? Not by a long shot.:2


I have to agree with Joel. (That Hurts, Rotten Flyers;):D )
Players and teams are laying it all on the line in the playoffs Players take chances, Hit harder, try different things to score not to look good doing it but to get a win.
During the regular season players and teams don't lay it all out like that.
So you have these insanely talented (The Capitals) teams with these great finesse players that can do anything but end up getting shut down.
Look at the Bruins Last year they went to the finals of the semis in the east but lost to Carolina and they were the best in the East Last year. They beat the Bag out of teams in the regular season and could not handle it when they went up against a hard hitting team that took it to them for Seven Games.

PS Playoff Hockey is the best. It beats out Football, Basketball, and Baseball for intensity:2

[mithrilG60]

The other factor is that offense sells tickets while defense wins games. The regular season is about filling rinks and making the team owners money so ever team plays a different kind of game, which is why entirely offensive orientated teams like the Caps end up in 1st overall. In the playoffs teams tend to play much more a much more defensively cautious style which tends to shut down freewheeling offenses. If your team can't switch from offensive to defense they ll never do well...... and let's face it, both Ovechkin and the Caps are all offense all the time. There's no off switch or defensive fallback there.

[GreekGodX]

The NHL leaves me scratching my head as to why they made changes to the league to make it more offense orientated but the playoffs turn into a grind it out game.. Teams like the Caps, that are built with a lot of talent, fail in the playoffs because it's a completely different game.

Could the league make a rule change that limits the number of people in front of the net? That would make a huge difference in the playoffs :2

[kazzaca]

I grew up in Montreal and even though I've seen some amazing games in my lifetime, that win last night really was something special...another amazing chapter in a storied franchise.

Great goaltending paired with some incredible defense...wow...just wow...

[kazzaca]

No Marleau for the Sharks tonight...not good! He's the one guy on that line that busts his butt to get to the puck.

[yourchoice]

The other factor is that offense sells tickets while defense wins games. The regular season is about filling rinks and making the team owners money so ever team plays a different kind of game, which is why entirely offensive orientated teams like the Caps end up in 1st overall.

Along this same thought, teams play differently at home than on the road during the regular season...at least the Flyers do. I think it has to do somewhat with "putting on a show" for the home fans, but when they're on the road, they play a safer/tighter game. Not sacrificing themselves like they do in the playoffs, but safer.

[icehog3]

Simplistically, I think it has a lot to do with sacrifice. During the regular season, players may not layout to stop a slapshot as frequently. They may not go into the corner quite as hard. They may make a blind pass instead of taking a hit to make the safer, often correct play. A lot of those types of plays slow the game down creating bouncing pucks and a slower pace of play.

To me, I prefer the post-season game to the regular season. Not only for the intensity and the importance of each game, but I prefer the style of play....the players play tougher. Sorry to bring this up Mike, but if Marleau "bunny hops" in the regular season, it may be talked about for a week...maybe that long. When it happens in the post season it's talked about for a year. In the regular season, in the long run, hopping may have been the right play (keep your stars healthy (pun intended ;)) and live to fight another day. In the post season? Not by a long shot.

:2

I agree with your thoughts, Joel, and I too prefer playoff type hockey. Not as exciting in the "freewheeling" aspect, but so much more so in most other respects.

They may make a blind pass instead of taking a hit to make the safer, often correct play.

Just ask Martin Erat....hs lazy blind pass to the middle likely cost the Predators the series against the Blackhawks. ;)

[yourchoice]

Just ask Martin Erat....hs lazy blind pass to the middle likely cost the Predators the series against the Blackhawks. ;)

Absolutely Tom. Like Marleau's play, if that happened in the regular season, it's forgotten in a week's time.



Pavelsky is on fire!

[yourchoice]

Holy $*@*! The Sharks came ready to play.

[kazzaca]

Wow...definitely wasn't expecting the Sharks to take it to the Wings like this!

[icehog3]

We got a game for the 3rd.

What was Sj's defense thinking on the Cleary goal?? :confused:

[mithrilG60]

Along this same thought, teams play differently at home than on the road during the regular season...at least the Flyers do. I think it has to do somewhat with "putting on a show" for the home fans, but when they're on the road, they play a safer/tighter game. Not sacrificing themselves like they do in the playoffs, but safer.

This, and the regular season is these guys day job. Like every job it's easy to get caught up and being putting in just enough effort to do a good enough job to earn the pay cheque and not the full 110% required for a phenomenal job. The playoffs on the other hand are why they choose to pursue careers as pro-hockey players so the extra effort is a given.

[Eleven]

Never been a Sharks fan but boy howdy I sure am for the next 2 weeks or less!

[icehog3]

Sharks hold on and draw first blood.

I really like Joe Pavelski...he sure would look good in Blackhawks red.

[Ahbroody]

What was Sj's defense thinking on the Cleary goal?? :confused:

That was so bad. I am hoping for no more WTF goals like that in this series.

Sharks hold on and draw first blood.

I really like Joe Pavelski...he sure would look good in Blackhawks red.
Hell no. I am loving Pavs. From his clutch play for team USA to his clutch goals so far. Hoping Micah can wear number 8 next year. :tu

Nice to see the Sharks special teams step up and in both scoring goals on the PP and holding the Wings off the board on 7 PP's. 15 Penalties tonight and the teams clearly have their hate on early. I think by the end this may rival the Hawks Knuckleheads. Well maybe not, but its already chippy.

That said the Wings showed why they are a great franchise. Down 3 goals they didnt panic, they kept their heads and got right back in the game. To me this series has the potential to go 7. Howard impressed me a lot with his play tonight as to keeping his head and staying in the game. His interview after the game also showed a lot of poise.

Babcock crying in the press conf saying Settogucghi dove after getting high sticked in the face. He did get sticked in the face and he admits that, but he didnt like the way he reacted after getting sticked in the mouth. Seriously? He's already going to start lobbying the refs? It was a friggin penalty and he's complaining. I saw some embelishment the other way guess hes not concearned about his teams embelishing. :td


As to the win. AWESOME!!!!!:banger

[icehog3]

Hell no. I am loving Pavs. From his clutch play for team USA to his clutch goals so far. Hoping Micah can wear number 8 next year. :tu

Babcock crying in the press conf saying Settogucghi dove after getting high sticked in the face. He did get sticked in the face and he admits that, but he didnt like the way he reacted after getting sticked in the mouth. Seriously? He's already going to start lobbying the refs? It was a friggin penalty and he's complaining. I saw some embelishment the other way guess hes not concearned about his teams embelishing. :td




Number #8 is great...although #3 is pretty cool too. ;)

At least Babcock admitted Setoguchi got hit in the face...idiot color man said that "He got hit in the wrist and his legs stopped working". What the Hell play was he watching??

Congrats on a good Game 1 win...I agree, this one might be headed to 7. But I also disagree, Mike...I see no way this is going to get near as nasty as the Hawks and Canuckleheads series will be.

I will probably miss a couple games, as I don't think the hospital I am going into has Versus...luckily the first3 Hawks games are on ComCast, and I will be able to catch the NBC games too.

[Ahbroody]

Number #8 is great...although #3 is pretty cool too. ;)

I will probably miss a couple games, as I don't think the hospital I am going into has Versus...luckily the first3 Hawks games are on ComCast, and I will be able to catch the NBC games too.

Hmmmmm #3 sounds like some plugs defense number. :D Thought about it because he was 3 when he played his first hockey game. See I am already teaching him to stand infront of the net though, so I just dont think 3 would work. :r Hell maybe I will go 96 for the modern day king of standing infront of the net and getting dirty goals.

As to the no games, uhhhhh you have heard of justin.tv and dailyfun4u.com right? just take your laptop with you and bang instant hockey. thought u had an iphone, there is even a justin.tv app. Its not bad I sometimes use it on my ipod touch using my phone as wifi hotspot. There is no excuse to miss any hockey. Where there is a will there is a way.

Life is good sitting on the front porch with my last PSP#2, laptop and a rootbeer(non drinker) life is good. :tu Wife didnt want to wrestle because I have a cold. :td Hope your stint in the hospital will be over before the end of the second round. I am ueber superstitious so I wont speak further as to 3rd round.

[icehog3]

Hmmmmm #3 sounds like some plugs defense number. :D Thought about it because he was 3 when he played his first hockey game. See I am already teaching him to stand infront of the net though, so I just dont think 3 would work. Hell maybe I will go 96 for the modern day king of standing infront of the net and getting dirty goals.

As to the no games, uhhhhh you have heard of justin.tv and dailyfun4u.com right? just take your laptop with you and bang instant hockey. thought u had an iphone, there is even a justin.tv app. Its not bad I sometimes use it on my ipod touch using my phone as wifi hotspot. There is no excuse to miss any hockey. Where there is a will there is a way.

Life is good sitting on the front porch with my last PSP#2, laptop and a rootbeer(non drinker) life is good. :tu Wife didnt want to wrestle because I have a cold. :td Hope your stint in the hospital will be over before the end of the second round. I am ueber superstitious so I wont speak further as to 3rd round.

Thanks Mike, my stay will be over long before Round 2 ends. But while I am there, I will miss some games...I don't own a laptop. ;) :r

[GreekGodX]

That tripping penalty on Franzen after getting high sticked really bothers me. Lead to a Pavalski PPG on a 5-3. Probably what sealed the game. Wings did keep going at it. Resting a few days and getting back to it on Sunday will definitely help the Wings. They looked a little slow in the game.

[chippewastud79]

That tripping penalty on Franzen after getting high sticked really bothers me. Lead to a Pavalski PPG on a 5-3. Probably what sealed the game. Wings did keep going at it. Resting a few days and getting back to it on Sunday will definitely help the Wings. They looked a little slow in the game.

That penalty was fricken crap. Hard to control your stick when you are trying to cover your face from the high stick that just cut you below the eye. You could see the amazement on his face that he got called for that penalty while he was wiping up his own blood. :bh

[Eleven]

Leaving the house in a few, my son has a baseball tournament that gets under way tonight. Gonna miss Game 1 tonight of the Pens vs Habs.

Go Pens!

[Mr B]

That tripping penalty on Franzen after getting high sticked really bothers me. Lead to a Pavalski PPG on a 5-3. Probably what sealed the game. Wings did keep going at it. Resting a few days and getting back to it on Sunday will definitely help the Wings. They looked a little slow in the game.



Looked to me like the High Stick came as a result of being tripped. You cant control your stick while being tripped.

[Ahbroody]

That tripping penalty on Franzen after getting high sticked really bothers me. Lead to a Pavalski PPG on a 5-3. Probably what sealed the game. Wings did keep going at it. Resting a few days and getting back to it on Sunday will definitely help the Wings. They looked a little slow in the game.

That penalty was fricken crap. Hard to control your stick when you are trying to cover your face from the high stick that just cut you below the eye. You could see the amazement on his face that he got called for that penalty while he was wiping up his own blood. :bh

Wow how about we go to the video shall we. lets watch 3:04 to say 3:10 and watch it a few times.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tRTxpZxzCUA

Tripping after getting high sticked. The incidences at best occurred at exactly the same moment. I would give the nod to Franzens stick touching settos skates prior to the settos stick touching his face. The way you two are talking you are making it sound like he was highsticked and then he tripped him. These incidences occurred at the exact same instance and one did not cause the other. But hey you guys break out that crutch so you can blame the game on that.

"got the penalty while wiping blood from his face" that is absolutely false sir. :td

[Eleven]

Wow how about we go to the video shall we. lets watch 3:04 to say 3:10 and watch it a few times.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tRTxpZxzCUA

Tripping after getting high sticked. The incidences at best occurred at exactly the same moment. I would give the nod to Franzens stick touching settos skates prior to the settos stick touching his face. The way you two are talking you are making it sound like he was highsticked and then he tripped him. These incidences occurred at the exact same instance and one did not cause the other. But hey you guys break out that crutch so you can blame the game on that.

"got the penalty while wiping blood from his face" that is absolutely false sir. :td

So.....how bout them Pens!!!!!!!

[Ahbroody]

micah loves cindy and the pens. He was happy tonight. Jumping up and down on the couch. Pretty dominating performance tonigt that's for sure.

[Eleven]

Tonight I am a Blackhawks fan.

Tomorrow I am a Sharks fan.

ALWAYS a Penguins fan.

Don't give a crap about who wins the flyers/bruins series fan!

In the end, its gonna be Hawks/Pens in the finals. Can't wait!

[GreekGodX]

Wow how about we go to the video shall we. lets watch 3:04 to say 3:10 and watch it a few times.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tRTxpZxzCUA

Tripping after getting high sticked. The incidences at best occurred at exactly the same moment. I would give the nod to Franzens stick touching settos skates prior to the settos stick touching his face. The way you two are talking you are making it sound like he was highsticked and then he tripped him. These incidences occurred at the exact same instance and one did not cause the other. But hey you guys break out that crutch so you can blame the game on that.

"got the penalty while wiping blood from his face" that is absolutely false sir. :td

It's interesting how much you read into my posts. Look back at what I put.. All I said is that it bothered me and because of that penalty that pretty much sealed the game. I can't conclusively say which came first after looking at it again.

You might want to check yourself on the "crutch" part. I never made any comments on how the refs stole the game from us. In fact I feel we got some calls because of a bit of acting which I hate to see. Nothing worse than players taking dives or acting to get a call. Terrible for the game.

I honestly expected the Sharks to win. They were at home, after a week of rest and the Wings coming off a big emotional win less than 48 hours before the game. The Sharks would have really dropped the ball if they lost that first game. I'm encouraged by the Wings effort and I'm not at all worried that we won't win this series. The effort the Wings gave after that early deficit is a great sign of things to come.

[Ahbroody]

I dont read to much into your post and I quoted two posts both of which had false statements in them.
You stated the tripping penalty came "after" the high sticking. The video shows different. You said it lead to the 5-3 goal. No what lead to the 5-3 goal was Filppula's stick in Settoguchi's mouth. You said the penalty probablly sealed the game.

I also quoted a second person who said the trip occurred after the highstick and while he was wiping blood of his face.

I dont think I need to "check" myself when I am attempting to correct what appear to be false statements, or statements that are very open to debate. To me anytime you say a whole game was sealed or controled by one single call or non call is a crutch. It negates the other 55+ minutes of the game.

I just want to make sure anyone who did not see the game would clearly see what we were discussing and how it was not how it was being portrayed in the 2 posts I quoted.

This series is far from over and the Wings have a better chance then the Sharks to win the Series given experience and what they have shown so far. That said this thread will go a lot further if people dont start calling out individual penalties or non penalties implying they sealed the game. It takes 60 minutes to seal a game. So lets all just sit back and get ready for a long one. In the end the Wings will likely prevail anyway so settle down.

[GreekGodX]

I dont read to much into your post and I quoted two posts both of which had false statements in them.
You stated the tripping penalty came "after" the high sticking. The video shows different. You said it lead to the 5-3 goal. No what lead to the 5-3 goal was Filppula's stick in Settoguchi's mouth. You said the penalty probablly sealed the game.

I also quoted a second person who said the trip occurred after the highstick and while he was wiping blood of his face.

I dont think I need to "check" myself when I am attempting to correct what appear to be false statements, or statements that are very open to debate. To me anytime you say a whole game was sealed or controled by one single call or non call is a crutch. It negates the other 55+ minutes of the game.

I just want to make sure anyone who did not see the game would clearly see what we were discussing and how it was not how it was being portrayed in the 2 posts I quoted.

This series is far from over and the Wings have a better chance then the Sharks to win the Series given experience and what they have shown so far. That said this thread will go a lot further if people dont start calling out individual penalties or non penalties implying they sealed the game. It takes 60 minutes to seal a game. So lets all just sit back and get ready for a long one. In the end the Wings will likely prevail anyway so settle down.

The goal after the penalty pretty much did seal the game. That was the game winner for the Sharks. Pretty simple.

I'm still looking for how I'm using that as a crutch.. In all my statements I never said that play sealed the game. Probably and pretty much were used. That means there were other aspects to the game that helped win it for the Sharks. I'm not looking for any crutch or any excuses as to why the Wings lost.

Definitely looking forward to the next game tomorrow. And looking forward to Monday's dissection of the game between the 2 of us.

[Ahbroody]

Look I have already said why and also shown in video that some of your comments were not accurate. They played for near 20 minutes after the goal and had a PP. They didnt get it done. I am done discussing this with you. I have said already why its a crutch comment.

As to todays action The B's take game 1 in OT and both goalies of what I saw looked very average out there. Who ever emerges will likely be easy pickings for the Pens. With all that the Pens look poised to possible lift the cup again. I dont see the Habs knocking them out. I wouldnt mind seeing a Pens Bruins conf final. There would be some good hate in that series and who knows who gets taken out.

Is it 5pm Pacific time yet? I want to watch this nucks Hawks series more then the Sharks Wings. This thing has the potential to be epic. Maybe instead of pulling hair dude will go full cat fight and scratch his eyes. Do we see a fight in game one? I am leaning towards yes and big Buff just tormenting the stash.

[Ahbroody]

http://news.therecord.com/article/629923
was thinking about this kid the other day and found this article.

for those of you with kids, if they were good enoug would you want them to play college hockey or major jrs and why?

I lean towards college because they get an education.

[Bruins Fan]

Go Bruins, the overtime period was awesome :tu

[Captain Crunch]

Gosh I hate the Red Wings! Go Sharks. I can't believe the Capitals are out, I thought they would be raising the Stanley Cup this year

[GHC_Hambone]

Not such a good first period for the Hawks. Hopefully they will pick it up.

[Ahbroody]

it just got worse. Yikes!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[Eleven]

http://news.therecord.com/article/629923
was thinking about this kid the other day and found this article.

for those of you with kids, if they were good enoug would you want them to play college hockey or major jrs and why?

I lean towards college because they get an education.

My son's coach's entire philosophy is to gear the boys for Junior or College hockey. He follows the ADM (American Development Model supplied by USA Hockey). He grew up and played Junior hockey in Sweden, and says their development program is very similar to the ADM.

Our boys are all 1998 birth years, which makes them Peewee Majors next season. Last season they played Tier II hockey and ended up the year ranked 11th in the USA.

All in all, we would rather he play college hockey, for the overall experience. We know the odds of any given kid to make the NHL, but getting a college scholarship is much more in reach.

Junior players usually live with host families, and serve 'community service' for the opportunity to play Junior hockey. My kids team switched organizations for next year and this new organization utilizes its Junior A players to help out with coaching the elite level youth teams as part of their community service.

They both have rewards I am sure, but I think College is the way to go unless you are a superstar like Crosby, which we all know only happens once in a generation or so.

:2

[dabigdog]

Good game tonite!! Go cAnucks!!!

[Ahbroody]

Good game tonite!! Go cAnucks!!!
I really don't think the Hawks could have had a worse game. They lost home ice, got beat badly, now have a goalie controversy, and outside of when they opened it up in the 3rd didn't have many chances. The stash played wel in net.

My son's coach's entire philosophy is to gear the boys for Junior or College hockey. He follows the ADM (American Development Model supplied by USA Hockey).

All in all, we would rather he play college hockey, for the overall experience. We know the odds of any given kid to make the NHL, but getting a college scholarship is much more in reach.

Junior players usually live with host families, and serve 'community service' for the opportunity to play Junior hockey.

They both have rewards I am sure, but I think College is the way to go unless you are a superstar like Crosby, which we all know only happens once in a generation or so.

:2
today I was talking to Scott Nichols wife about this topic. She met Scott while he was playing jrs. She said no way would she let her son live with a host family. In her experience there was a lot of partying that occurs and it can not be good if the young man follows the group. I think it's great you are seeing a lot more high level players take the college route.

[Captain Crunch]

What a fluke, the Boston Bruins lucked out with that OT goal... anyone but the Red Wings, and Blackhawks--sorry Icehog, still dislike the B-hawks after the brutual rivarly with my beloved North Stars!

[p@rick]

New to the forum so I am just throwing it out there: GO WINGS!!! Wings v Penns in the finals. Penns win in 6.

[hockeydad]

http://news.therecord.com/article/629923
was thinking about this kid the other day and found this article.

for those of you with kids, if they were good enoug would you want them to play college hockey or major jrs and why?

I lean towards college because they get an education.

I don't post lately but thought I'd jump in here. In the OHL teams will pay for a kids education after they have graduated(so to speak). If a player does 3 years with a team they will pay for 3 years education. It would definitely depend on the maturity level of the kid. Can you imagine a 16 year old kid in Sudbury without his family? A lot of kids who play university hockey in Ontario have already played in the O.
There are players here in St. Catharines who play Junior B until their scholarships start in NCAA. Here is a boy that played here. http://www.stcatharinesstandard.ca/ArticleDisplay.aspx?e=2558394
They can get into trouble wherever they go.

[ahc4353]

I would want my kids to play college. Why? If your good enough to make the show it really doesent matter where you play (other than visability). And when your playing days are over you will still need that education to to make a living.

[E.J.]

I would want my kids to play college. Why? If your good enough to make the show it really doesent matter where you play (other than visability). And when your playing days are over you will still need that education to to make a living.

All in all, we would rather he play college hockey, for the overall experience. We know the odds of any given kid to make the NHL, but getting a college scholarship is much more in reach.



Eleven and Al prety much sum up my thoughts.... Though I am not too worried that we will be having to make that difficult decision...... If we did, I'd consider it fortunate....

My 13 year old.....playing D for his High School JV team this Summer....
http://img291.imageshack.us/img291/883/murrayhockey1.jpg

[jmsremax]

My 13 year old.....playing D for his High School JV team this Summer....


Very nice! My folks wouldn't play ice hockey when I was young so for my 11th b-day they got me street hockey gear. :td

Still my favorite sport then lacrosse which I played 4 years of high school. I miss it a lot. Hope your son does well during the regular season!

[SmokeyJoe]

Montreal looked great today against the Pens... Can they continue to defy the odds?

Enjoyed Detroit v San Jose. Kinda pulling for the Sharks - I was born not far from San Jose. :D

Only thing that would make this time of year better would be my Hurricanes in the mix. :ss

[jmsremax]

Montreal looked great today against the Pens... Can they continue to defy the odds?

Enjoyed Detroit v San Jose. Kinda pulling for the Sharks - I was born not far from San Jose. :D

Only thing that would make this time of year better would be my Hurricanes in the mix. :ss

I'm not much of a fan of the hurricanes...especially after what they did to the B's last year. -(P

[Ahbroody]

Eleven and Al prety much sum up my thoughts.... Though I am not too worried that we will be having to make that difficult decision...... If we did, I'd consider it fortunate....

My 13 year old.....playing D for his High School JV team this Summer....
http://img291.imageshack.us/img291/883/murrayhockey1.jpg

awesome pic, I'm such a gear whore. I see he is wearing a Plexi shield. Micah wears one but he and one other boy in the league were the only ones. Everyone else had cages. Love the Grafs, the pattern looks like Supra 605's but the colors are reversed. Just grabbed Micah a pair of Supra 370's from back east, going to come in this week. Its his first pair of Graf's hoping they fit. By the look of the gear, Eagle gloves, Graf skates, plexi shield (preference I know) looks like he is more about comfort on the ice then flash. :tu

Micah starts summer league on Saturday, got 1 whole week off.

[E.J.]

awesome pic, I'm such a gear whore. I see he is wearing a Plexi shield. Micah wears one but he and one other boy in the league were the only ones. Everyone else had cages. Love the Grafs, the pattern looks like Supra 605's but the colors are reversed. Just grabbed Micah a pair of Supra 370's from back east, going to come in this week. Its his first pair of Graf's hoping they fit. By the look of the gear, Eagle gloves, Graf skates, plexi shield (preference I know) looks like he is more about comfort on the ice then flash. :tu

Micah starts summer league on Saturday, got 1 whole week off.

Thanks.... I have become his personal photographer...:r After every game he is asking for the pics....

Yea, he wanted the plexi shield shortly after starting(maybe year 2), just came to me and said he wanted "one of those clear masks" or something to that effect. They are few and far between here as well. Maybe 1 in 10 at best, probably not even that. I thought there may be fogging issues, but it has not been much of an issue.

The skates are G5's.... They have the Limited color scheme, which probably threw you off.


I hear you Mike....it is just a year round thing now. When I was a kid, I did whatever sport was in season and really didn't have a choice, that is just how things worked. Other than camps ect, that may allow you to play something different in the Summer for a week or 2, it was 100% seasonal. Now kids are given the choice of all the sports as their seasons come and go, most have year round access.... That is something that was not an option for me. Truthfully, I am not sure if it is a good thing....:confused:

The Little Man has done it all, but now just plays hockey....one season just rolls into the next.....

Continued success to Micah.... Sounds like he is excelling at a young age, that is great for his confidence and will expand exponentially IMO.



Add: Of every sport(like I said, we have done it all), hockey is BY FAR the most fun to be a parent. Not only the game, which is far superior to be a spectator at....but the community. That must make up for the financial end, which has to be the worst.....:r

I apologize for the hi-jack

[mithrilG60]

I don't post lately but thought I'd jump in here. In the OHL teams will pay for a kids education after they have graduated(so to speak). If a player does 3 years with a team they will pay for 3 years education.

The WHL does the same, but I believe it's actually 4 years. Not too bad a deal, play 4 full years of junior and then if you don't make it up to the NHL your undergrad is paid for.

[Ahbroody]

figured I would weigh in on the Sharks Wings game. Didnt see all of it. That said I was happy to see the Sharks keep home ice advantage as the odds are against them to grab a game in the Joe. Their record in the Joe is horrible so it will be suprising to see them get a win there. If they can it would likely spell doom for Det. I also see this series now having the potential to go 7 games if the Sharks dont get lucky and end it early. In order for that not to happen the Wings would need to take 4 straight and that just isnt to likely. In a 7 game series I still think the wings experience will end up winning the day as they just dont ever seem to panic. The question is though can the Sharks end it early.

Detroit spent 1/3 of the game in the box lastnight taking a lot of stick related penalties. Babcock said the Wings would now be much more careful with their sticks. I wonder though if penalties are a result of fatigue as I see some players using their sticks instead of their feet. You could also see some frustration as Stuart went after Pavs. With all that said Datsyuk is a friggin stud. He has impressed the hell out of me with his ability to dangle and skate. I think he would get a lot more attention if not for Crosby and Ovi. I dont think hes as physical or strong on his skates on the boards as either, but in the open ice he is deadly. His combination of skating and dangling seems to freeze players trying to stop him. Holmstrom is a monster in front of the net. It looks like the Sharks have decided to let him stand their and attempt to shut down any feeds to him instead of putting a man on him. I hope this works. Lindstrom continues to roll also even at age 40.

As to the win :banger:banger:

[Ahbroody]

The skates are G5's.... They have the Limited color scheme, which probably threw you off.

The Little Man has done it all, but now just plays hockey....one season just rolls into the next.....


Add: Of every sport(like I said, we have done it all), hockey is BY FAR the most fun to be a parent. Not only the game, which is far superior to be a spectator at....but the community. That must make up for the financial end, which has to be the worst.....:r



Did not think they were G5's very cool. I rock G35s

Tried to get him into Tball this year, but he was too young so hockey it is. My wife thinks baseball will drive him crazy do to all the down time. He's comedy even when on the bench hes usually chirping it up at everyone and baseball is very different.

The community here is very small, that said I have already heard it can be very political which scares me. The cost is definelty the worse.


As to tonights action I dont think anyone can call the Phi Bos series. The Hawks desperately need a win tonight to help right the ship.

[icehog3]

Missed the games on Versus this weekend as my hospital room did not have it. Listened to the Hawks game, glad I missed it. Tonight is as close to a "must win" as a non-elimination game can be.

Sharks up 2-0, Pavelski is just the hottest player in the league right now. Good for him, he is a good guy too.

Looking forward to not missing any games this week, should be excellent hockey.

[yourchoice]

Flyers go down 2 games to 0. Two really hard fought games by both teams so far...much more intense than the Devils/Flyers series IMHO.

The color commentator on Versus drove me crazy tonight. To any Bruins fans, is he the regular color guy for the Bruins? My guess is he was. :r At first I thought his perspective may have just been slanted until I noticed "Prongah", "Wheelah" and "Rydah". :r

[Ahbroody]

not sure. I know the sharks feed has not been the local guys. Then again it's been prety obvious to me what fan base vs is playing to. You don't want to piss off the larger of the the two fan bases tuning in now. :r

[icehog3]

Hawks have 20 minutes to get their sh!t together or I fear they will be golfing on Mother's Day. :(

[ChicagoWhiteSox]

http://chi-ball.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2009/07/c4dfa4a26e00e5f99c5b4e25182c5199.jpg

[icehog3]

Man of the Hour. :D

[GHC_Hambone]

Yesssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssss

[Ahbroody]

heeeeeelllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllll ll










wait for it













YES!




Second favorite dog in the hunt grabs the win.
Congrats to the Hawk nation I imagine you were gripping hard at the start and into the 3rd.

[icehog3]

Congrats to the Hawk nation I imagine you were gripping hard at the start and into the 3rd.

Understatement of the year, Mike. :hn :r

[Ahbroody]

all I know is it could still happen Tom and that would be cool. My childhood team vs my current team.

[mithrilG60]

While not the result that people on this side of the continent were hoping for, that was a much more entertaining game to watch than Game 1. Finally lived up to the billing for this series with some great end to end hockey. Regardless of who wins I expect the Hawks vs Canucks series will probably be the best hockey of the playoffs.

[kugie]

Bruins are up 2-0
They played a good game last night.
But they are getting into some bad habits when they have the lead. Simalar to what they did in the regular season they are sitting back and backing in to there own zone and instead of carrying the puck out of there own zone they are passing it out. The Flyers are doing a good job of blocking those passing lanes and holding the puck in when the B's play that back up style.:2

Don't get me wrong I am happy with the outcome.
But if they make the next round they can't play that style or they will be going home and fast.

Here we go Bruins Here we go!!!!!

[icehog3]

all I know is it could still happen Tom and that would be cool. My childhood team vs my current team.

How cool would that be? :)

While not the result that people on this side of the continent were hoping for, that was a much more entertaining game to watch than Game 1. Finally lived up to the billing for this series with some great end to end hockey. Regardless of who wins I expect the Hawks vs Canucks series will probably be the best hockey of the playoffs.

I knew the Canucks were a good team heading into this series, though I probably only caught 7-8 of their games prior to the playoffs. But now I see they are an even better team than I thought...sometimes it's hard to get past that "hate", but the Canucks are a helluva team and I think this series could easily go 7.

[mithrilG60]

I'd agree, two very strong teams that play the same offensive style are always fun to watch. Combine in the fact that there's a rivalry equal to the old Montreal v Boston and Montreal v Toronto tilts from the 80's and 90's and you've got a winner!

I still think it'll be decided in 6, as to whether it's Van ir Chicago I'll now reserve call on until I see if the Canucks manage to figure out that in tomorrow's game they have to skate for the entire thing AND the Sister's need to drive the neutral zone instead of coasting and automatically looking for the pass everytime.

[icehog3]

I'd agree, two very strong teams that play the same offensive style are always fun to watch. Combine in the fact that there's a rivalry equal to the old Montreal v Boston and Montreal v Toronto tilts from the 80's and 90's and you've got a winner!

I still think it'll be decided in 6, as to whether it's Van ir Chicago I'll now reserve call on until I see if the Canucks manage to figure out that in tomorrow's game they have to skate for the entire thing AND the Sister's need to drive the neutral zone instead of coasting and automatically looking for the pass everytime.

You would have gotten a kick out of the Chicago announcer Pat Foley last night. Daniel had the puck and Pat asked "Where's Henrik?"...a few seconds ragging the puck and Daniel found him and Pat said "There he is!". Their chemistry is amazing, though I do agree they pass up some decent shots looking for the "pretty play" too often. Frankly, Samuelsson scares me more than they do right now, as does Salo when he gets a lane from the point.

[mithrilG60]

I get slagged for this opinion all the time in Vancouver, but I really think the Sister's are massively overrated. While they obviously had career season's this year, obviously with Daniel setting a personal scoring record and Henrik winning the Art Ross and being nominated for the Hart with Crosby (who will be the winner) and Ovechkin, this is also the first season since they joined the Canucks 10 years ago that they've looked like the 1st line players which everyone has been calling them for the last 5 years.

You hit their biggest weakness on the head: they play with the puck too damn much. More than 50% of the time they end up loosing it without getting a shot on goal because of their needlessly complex passing plays. That's something that's ok in a rookie, but in the 10 yr veterans that are supposed to be leading the team? No, at that stage of a players development you have to expect they've learned the maturity to know when a pass is one too many. Admittedly they were much better at not ever passing this year, and if they can repeat similar performances for the next couple years they'll be worth it, but overall I still think they're a very expensive $12million/yr hit on Vancouver's cap that in the long run could have been much better spent else where.

[gpugliese]

The color commentator on Versus drove me crazy tonight. To any Bruins fans, is he the regular color guy for the Bruins? My guess is he was. :r At first I thought his perspective may have just been slanted until I noticed "Prongah", "Wheelah" and "Rydah". :r


Yea, that's Andy Brickley. He's usually not too bad when working with Jack Edwards (B's p-b-p on NESN) but I think with Edwards being by far the worst p-b-p and biggest homer out there, Brick sounds tame in comparison when working together.

With Beninati, Brick's accent stuck out too much. I heard Rosen doing some p-b-p on Versus in the first round, has he been around in the second?

Anything's better than "A DRIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIVE, WAFFLEBOARDED AWAAAAAAAAAAAY". Doc would be a great p-b-p announcer on the radio, where the audience benefits from detailed descriptions. However on TV, by the time he finishes his flowering prose, the puck's already down the other end of the ice in a more exciting situation. Also, TV viewers don't need their hand held as much as the radio, as they have visuals.

[Ahbroody]

that's weird some vs games get home announcers and some aren't.

little over 2 hours to go. I got called into work tonight. :(

[GreekGodX]

Can't wait for the game tonight. Wings need to be disciplined. These penalties are so un-Wing like. And can someone please stop Pavelski! Guy is on fire..

[icehog3]

There's your key, Son...stop Little Joe. No one has been able to do it yet.

Sorry you gotta work, Mike, hope you can at least catch the radio broadcast.

What's up with the guy who sings the National Anthem at the Bruins games? I keep thinking of the Cowardly Lion singing "If I Were King of the Forest". :r

[icehog3]

that's weird some vs games get home announcers and some aren't.



It's the games that are joned "in progress"...they pick up one of the teams' local feeds...guess they don't have two crews to send out to two different cities.

[Ahbroody]

I don't know the Thorton Heater line looks to coming around. This Sharks fan is hoping it is.

[kazzaca]

Anyone watching the Mtl-Pitt game tonight? Montreal just had their best period of the series. The crowd is looking WILD.

[ahc4353]

I like the way Canadians are playin. Don't get to see many games. :(

And I still hate Crosby.

[kazzaca]

Crosby has been king in Canada since the Olympics and he's been boo'd for 2 series straight in Ottawa and Montreal now...lol. Gotta love passionate fans!

[GreekGodX]

I cannot believe the refs overturned that Zetterburg goal. I didn't see any kicking motion. His skate was on the ice! The kicking rule needs to be made more clear.. I've seen other goals this year get overturned that I thought for sure were goals..

As I was typing, WINGS SCORE!! With a review coming :(
Posted via Mobile Device

[Ahbroody]

christos I'm a let you finish but first I'm a call you the wambulance. I kid I kid.
Go complain to Toronto they overturned it not the refs.
as to the overturn. He moved his footto direct it in. It was his intent and it was clear, that's what the rule is for.

that said the Wings look great and the Sharks PP is not capitalizing. This game looks like it will be all Wings going away.

another stick penalty by detroit lets see what happens

[GreekGodX]

Scary ending to the period, Pavelski almost had a goal with a few seconds left. Too many penalties still.

Mike, you would call me the wambulance :r what can I say I'm just never happy, it's a curse.
Posted via Mobile Device

[357]

Wing's in OT makes me nervouse.....:gl

[357]

Like i said.....

:td

[icehog3]

I cannot believe the refs overturned that Zetterburg goal. I didn't see any kicking motion. His skate was on the ice!

Son, I am shocked that you thought that was a good goal. ;)

Wings are in big trouble now...they figure a way to keep Little Joe quiet, and Big Joe comes a knockin'. Looks like the Sharks will have a date with the Canucks or the Hawks.

[Eleven]

I still cannot believe the Wings can't fill the arena in the Stanley Cup Playoffs. Its embarrassing to our sport.

[icehog3]

I still cannot believe the Wings can't fill the arena in the Stanley Cup Playoffs. Its embarrassing to our sport.

I thought I saw a lot of empty seats on TV, but then I thought I must have been mistaken....I thought the Wings sold out every game for years, regular season and playoffs.

[Eleven]

I thought I saw a lot of empty seats on TV, but then I thought I must have been mistaken....I thought the Wings sold out every game for years, regular season and playoffs.

I have heard that too, but you watch game 4, they RARELY pan away from ice level. The upper bowl is probably full, those are the cheapest seats, but watching them closely the last 3 years, its evident they do not put bodies in the seats.

If they are sold, put someone in there. Hockey is a 4th rate sport in America already, why advertise disinterest with SO many empty seats? Especially in the playoffs.

I went to a CCHA tournament last spring at the Joe and it was great, the place was packed. Maybe Detroit just sucks so bad now that regular folk cant afford anything except college tickets?

[icehog3]

Maybe they were all home watching the Tigers game?

[GreekGodX]

I would say that loss pretty much took the wind out of the Wings. Being up 3-1 and then losing 4-3 in OT kinda does that to ya :td I'm hoping we can at least win 1 game...

The Wings sold out last night. That doesn't neccessarily mean everyone went to the game.. The past few years they've had a hard time selling tickets because of the economy. Wings regular season and playoff tickets are the higher end for the league. Considering Michigan is also on the higher end up unemployment doesn't bode well for leisure activities. Plus Wing fans seem to not buy earlier round tickets and wait for the Wings to advance further then buy tickets.

[jmsremax]

What's up with the guy who sings the National Anthem at the Bruins games? I keep thinking of the Cowardly Lion singing "If I Were King of the Forest". :r

Rene Rancourt is badass in the Bruins community. He sings the National Anthem for 90-95% of all B's games....don't hate :D

[yourchoice]

It's the games that are joned "in progress"...they pick up one of the teams' local feeds...guess they don't have two crews to send out to two different cities.

I noticed that in the later games, especially those with a Comcast affiliate. But the Flyers/Bruins was their regular time-slot game on Monday night...7 pm, a Versus only broadcast. Why they had the Bruins color guy, I don't know.:confused:

[King James]

http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_0cP9PvxawcE/SiiSF2e8iVI/AAAAAAAAOHs/Y2MfJ11vJwY/s320/crosby%20-%20mqure.jpg

[GHC_Hambone]

http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_0cP9PvxawcE/SiiSF2e8iVI/AAAAAAAAOHs/Y2MfJ11vJwY/s320/crosby%20-%20mqure.jpg

Haha that's awesome!

[icehog3]

Rene Rancourt is badass in the Bruins community. He sings the National Anthem for 90-95% of all B's games....don't hate :D

Not hating...actually makes me smile. :)

[Ahbroody]

As a Sharks fan from day one lastnights win was about as sweet as it gets. The Wings have tormented the Sharks all during the Pre Cap Era. As a result of that and dealing with bandwagon/and or obnoxious Wings fans at the Tank. Most of us Sharks fans have a true dislike for all things winged wheel. It just comes from years of being the Wings doormat and having to hear crap from obnoxious fans.

The Sharks pulled off an Epic comeback last night and removed many demons in the process. Yesterday before the game I said line 1 looked like it was comming around and Jumbo and Patty two goats in past years got 2 goals. The Pavelski line still scored though they stopped Pavs the line was not shut down. Second the Wings failed to hold onto a lead again and took too many stick penalties again. The previous very physical 7 game series has clearly exposed what I have been saying was the issue with this Wings team all year. The Sharks in a sense got very lucky that The Yotes took it to the Wings so hard and wore them down. This series would not be as loopsided if not for the Yotes. Well also the fact that the student clearly learned some of the teachers habits and his old teams weaknesses. Lets face it though the Wings barely escaped the first round.

I said and continued to say the following things this year about the Wings: First year Salary Cap is effecting them, aging leaders on the team, stars will no longer take less money to go there, Not as deep. It will be nice seeing the Wings struggle like every other team in the years to come. The Wings are still a good team and I am sure will continue to make the playoffs. That said the Wings continued dominance and trips to the Conf and Cup Finals will be ending. What worries me is that with the current economy and lack of money in the D will it have an impact?

All that said this Wings team has amazing veteran leadership and I still think they can grab a game or 2 hell maybe 3 before the Sharks finish it. As to them taking the series? The Sharks are the masters of the EPIC IMPLOSION so you just never know, but this would be an Implosion for the ages and I am sure Wings fan would love it. It wont change the yearsto come though.

Tom you may want to look at
http://www.travelocity.com/
http://www.expedia.com/
OOOO and buy some shorts. Its been in the 80s lately.

[icehog3]

First, the serious. Only 2 teams have ever come back from 3-0. 1942 Leafs and the 1975 Islanders. Almost an impossible feat in the NHL.

Now, the less serious: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sJXZLnMPiQ4&feature=fvw

[ChicagoWhiteSox]

First, the serious. Only 2 teams have ever come back from 3-0. 1942 Leafs and the 1975 Islanders. Almost an impossible feat in the NHL.

Now, the less serious: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sJXZLnMPiQ4&feature=fvw

:r:r

[Mr B]

First, the serious. Only 2 teams have ever come back from 3-0. 1942 Leafs and the 1975 Islanders. Almost an impossible feat in the NHL.

Now, the less serious: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sJXZLnMPiQ4&feature=fvw


:tu :r :banger

[ChicagoWhiteSox]

getting close to game time:ih

[ahc4353]

Watchin a little BOS vs Flyers before going to watch Mitch practice. One of the Cup commercials came on with all of the pics of Crybaby from last years win. I said to Alina, "it's all about Sid". She shakes her head and says with disgust, " it's sicking, he's, he's, he's such a pu$$y!".

ROFLMAO

If you knew my wife and how mild mannered and sweet she is you would be as well.

I just had to share. :D

[icehog3]

I said to Alina, "it's all about Sid". She shakes her head and says with disgust, " it's sicking, he's, he's, he's such a pu$$y!".



Love it, Al! :r

Philly is down to "do or die" time in the 3rd.

Picking out something to smoke for the Hawks game.

[Bruins Fan]

Three down and one to go....It's Tuka time :banger

[kugie]

Three down and one to go....It's Tuka time :banger

:tpd::tpd::banger:banger

[Eleven]

http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_0cP9PvxawcE/SiiSF2e8iVI/AAAAAAAAOHs/Y2MfJ11vJwY/s320/crosby%20-%20mqure.jpg

Wrong on so many levels!

First that needs to be Gary Bettman there, not Pierre! And second, Sid is a giver, not a taker!

[mithrilG60]

Chris that was some knappy ass ref'ing in the Hawks v Canucks game tonite. So many blatantly missed calls, not the least of which being goal #5. Allowing it or disallowing it would have had zero effect on the game but you're honestly going to allow any goal for any team to stand when 2 of the opposing players crash the net and score by pushing the goalie over his own goal line? Honestly? I'm betting AV and Gillis are already on the phone with the NHL's head of officiating ripping him a new one for allowing such absolute BS from the ref's.

That and why is it that as soon as hockey players start making a min of $800K/season they apparently loose the ability to count how many other jerseys that look like their own are already on the ice? So so sloppy.....

[icehog3]

Wrong on so many levels!

First that needs to be Gary Bettman there, not Pierre! And second, Sid is a giver, not a taker!

Opinions may vary. ;) :r

Nice win for the Hawks...not nice because they played great, but because they were dominated in period 1, and came out with a 2-0 lead. Outplayed in perios 2, and come out with a 3-2 lead. 3rd period was the way they need to play.

Great game by Niemi, the Canucks easily could have had a half dozen goals.

And Dustin Byfuglien...."How you like me now?"

http://i196.photobucket.com/albums/aa73/icehog3/byfuglein-2.jpg

[icehog3]

Chris that was some knappy ass ref'ing in the Hawks v Canucks game tonite. So many blatantly missed calls, not the least of which being goal #5. Allowing it or disallowing it would have had zero effect on the game but you're honestly going to allow any goal for any team to stand when 2 of the opposing players crash the net and score by pushing the goalie over his own goal line?

From a Hawks fan's perspective, I saw calls missed both ways. The 5th goal was kicked in my a Canuck D-man, and both Toews and Buff were jostling with Canuck D-men when they crashed the crease...but I am sure I would not be happy if the goal had gone the other way and been against the Hawks.

[GHC_Hambone]

Good game for the Hawks, they seem to have recovered well after Game 1.

[icehog3]

Good game for the Hawks, they seem to have recovered well after Game 1.

I still think this one might go 7, but happy the Hawks are up. :)

[icehog3]

Good game tonite!! Go cAnucks!!!

So what's up with these guys? :confused:

http://i196.photobucket.com/albums/aa73/icehog3/greenmen.jpg

[Eleven]

So what's up with these guys? :confused:

http://i196.photobucket.com/albums/aa73/icehog3/greenmen.jpg

They are doing it wrong! There is only 1 Green Man:

http://www.daveandthomas.net/wp-content/uploads/2010/01/greenman.gif

[gpugliese]

So what's up with these guys? :confused:

http://i196.photobucket.com/albums/aa73/icehog3/greenmen.jpg

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iXUUiK5IMNo

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tkXvwG8xKJI

[Eleven]

I would want Chicago to do away with Vancouver to get rid of these posers alone. Leave it to attention whores to ruin a funny thing.

[Ahbroody]

I could easily get banned right now.
Guess dudes in skin tight spandex body suits with masks covering their face is cool and not at all uh nevermind.

And why do those guys remind me of the gimp from pulp fiction?
O I know why they do. Hey remember in the movie when marcelis wallace is strapped to the barrel with the ball gag in his mouth. Weren't those 2 dudes in the room?

agreed scott, wouldn't that conversation with your child be interesting

[gpugliese]

Not sure if anyone's watching the Wings/Sharks game, but Franzen scored four goals in less than six minutes.

:O

[68TriShield]

can you say wrecking crew :D

[Ahbroody]

amazing period. I got to imagine he just played the period of his life.

This clearly appears in the bag. Oooo well they got 3 more chances to win one

[Gelly]

Not sure if anyone's watching the Wings/Sharks game, but Franzen scored four goals in less than six minutes.

:O

Damn! I'll have to turn the game on. I guess desperation sparks effort in Detroit.

[mithrilG60]

Not sure if anyone's watching the Wings/Sharks game, but Franzen scored four goals in less than six minutes.

:O

It's been changed to an assist and a hat trick. The awarded the 1st goal to Bertuzzi after review.

[kazzaca]

Just watched the Pens-Habs game...first off Halak is playing incredible. Secondly, the incompetence of the officials never seizes to amaze. Missed calls, bad calls, inconsistent calls...absolutely unbelievable....

[icehog3]

It's been changed to an assist and a hat trick. The awarded the 1st goal to Bertuzzi after review.

So he went ahead and scored a 4th goal in the 3rd period. Amazing game for Franzen and his linemates. San Jose will try to wrap 'er up at home this weekend.

Awesome win for the Canadiens...could they knock off the Caps and the Pens? That would be amazing!

[icehog3]

Checked out today's Vancouver Sun, I think they had 6 articles on Big Buff.

http://i196.photobucket.com/albums/aa73/icehog3/byfug.jpg

[gpugliese]

Awesome win for the Canadiens...could they knock off the Caps and the Pens? That would be amazing!

I don't think Montreal will knock off the Pens, but I'm certainly hoping for a BOS/MTL conference final. CHI/SJ would be great on the other side as well.

[icehog3]

I don't think Montreal will knock off the Pens, but I'm certainly hoping for a BOS/MTL conference final. CHI/SJ would be great on the other side as well.

I didn't think they would knock off the Caps either, Greg, so anything can happen.

Looks like San Jose is in....hoping the same for the Hawks. :tu

[Ahbroody]

That was the worse officiated game ever, OOOO man the refs screwed us, Uhhhhh they just got lucky, and insert every other crutch excuse I have seen here.

Actually the Sharks just got jumped early and often and the Wings showed why they are the Wings. Nabby didnt play great and Howard played awesome. He made some key saves early which helped change the outcome of the game. Great game by the Wings and they looked fantastic. Hoping for a better performance by the Sharks in the next game.

[GreekGodX]

Hey Mike :fu

I hope the Wings can continue to pester the Sharks like this. That game reminded me of the game 7 against the Coyotes. The Wings will have their backs to the wall for 3 more games, and so far I like how they play when that's the case :) 6 points for Franzen, third most for a playoff game in NHL history.

Before I get too excited, last time Nabakov allowed a 5-game goal, SJ beat Colorado in OT. Then Nabakov only allowed 5 goals in 4 games. The Sharks can easily put this game behind them knowing they are up 3-1.

Hope to see some more hockey at the Joe ;)

[Eleven]

Ugh. Worst. Hockey. Playoff. Night. Ever.

[icehog3]

Hope to see some more hockey at the Joe ;)

There will be Son....if not this week, then next season. ;)

[gpugliese]

There will be Son....if not this week, then next season. ;)

You do have to admit, all original six conference finals (or even Stanley Cup Final) would be awesome.

[icehog3]

You do have to admit, all original six conference finals (or even Stanley Cup Final) would be awesome.

I would say that would be totally cool...I just don't see Detroit dominating SJ like that 4 games in a row. But an all OR6 final 4 would be awesome.

[taltos]

You do have to admit, all original six conference finals (or even Stanley Cup Final) would be awesome.Chicago/Boston? Tom, hope that you are feeling better.

[icehog3]

Chicago/Boston? Tom, hope that you are feeling better.

Thanks, Paul...slowly but surely. :)


Hawks v Bruins would be awesome. :)

[kugie]

Chicago/Boston Would be awesome. And great for both cities

[Ahbroody]

Uhhhhhhh screw u guys. I mean that in the nicest way possible. SAN JOSE WINS THE CUP! has such a nice ring to it. Besides the Sharks fan base has been loyal since the begining even the lean years they still had awesome ticket sales. We deserve a little love out here. The cup needs to come to the west coast now.

Side note got Micahs Graf Supra 370s in and I will just say that it is the biggest boot out there volume wise in a sixe 10Y I am a little concearned its too deep. Cute as hell though and Micah had to add his signature green laces.
http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b358/ahbroody/P1050512.jpg

[icehog3]

I have much love for you Mike, but I am not prepared to root for the Sharks against the Hawks. Now against Vancouver, Boston, Montreal, Philly, Pittsburgh...that's a different story. ;)

[Superbad]

Go Wings! Since the Lightning are out of it.

[kugie]

I have much love for you Mike, but I am not prepared to root for the Sharks against the Hawks. Now against Vancouver, Boston, Montreal, Philly, Pittsburgh...that's a different story. ;)

WOW!! Where's the Love for Boston?

San Jose:confused: Really:D

[357]

There will be Son....if not this week, then next season. ;)

Not necessarily. Lease on the Joe is up. Wings future home os TBD.
Posted via Mobile Device

[kugie]

Not a bad game tonight not great.

I realy thoght the B's would pull off the sweep after sending it into OT. I have to give credit to Philly for keeping the pressure on and pulling off the win :tu.

Monday Night take it at home :banger

[yourchoice]

Not a bad game tonight not great.

I realy thoght the B's would pull off the sweep after sending it into OT. I have to give credit to Philly for keeping the pressure on and pulling off the win :tu.

Monday Night take it at home :banger

Unfortunately I didn't get to see much of the game tonight...had some stuff going on at home that took precedent. I'm just happy I didn't miss the Flyers last game of the year. Hopefully that won't be for a little while longer. :)

[icehog3]

Go Wings! Since the Lightning are out of it.

They're toast. ;)

[icehog3]

http://i196.photobucket.com/albums/aa73/icehog3/toewshat.jpg

[ChicagoWhiteSox]

http://network.nationalpost.com/np/blogs/postedsports/041409toews.jpg

:banger:banger

[icehog3]

Well thought out analysis. I agree with the Analysis with respect to forwards and goaltending. I also believe your D is stronger than ours, but when Sopel is in your top 4 (I might be hazy on whether he's top for or 5), I couldn't say your D outclasses ours by a wide margin with a straight face.

It's going to be a close series (6 or 7 games). I will take the Canucks in 6.

5 Sticks is fine by me. May the better team win !! :banger

Want my address now, or wait until Sunday? ;)

Just kiddin', Canucks may come back angry...or maybe less angry would be better for them.

[ChicagoWhiteSox]

Want my address now, or wait until Sunday? ;)

Just kiddin', Canucks may come back angry...or maybe less angry would be better for them.

Less angry would help:r

The nasty nucks took some really horrible penalties.

[icehog3]

Less angry would help:r

The nasty nucks took some really horrible penalties.

Burrows slamming Buff repeatedly in the back of the head with his stick while Buff was face down on the ice was both stupid and cowardly. Glad Toews put up one of his 3 PP goals on that one.

[ChicagoWhiteSox]

Burrows slamming Buff repeatedly in the back of the head with his stick while Buff was face down on the ice was both stupid and cowardly. Glad Toews put up one of his 3 PP goals on that one.

Yeah, really important to make the PP count, and score. It hurt the nucks tonight.

[icehog3]

Yeah, really important to make the PP count, and score. It hurt the nucks tonight.

They imploded again, despite knowing that was their downfall in Game 3 and talking "discipline" the last 2 days. Hawks played it smarter, and that was a big part of the difference. I almost felt bad for Luongo. Almost. ;)

[icehog3]

"I've got Dustin on the Brain"

http://i196.photobucket.com/albums/aa73/icehog3/luongo23.jpg

[ChicagoWhiteSox]

"I've got Dustin on the Brain"

http://i196.photobucket.com/albums/aa73/icehog3/luongo23.jpg

:r:r

I really hope we put them away Sunday night:su

Then onto San Jose. Well at least thats how it looks. You never know.

[Eleven]

If I was the gloating kind, I would be texting my Wings-Loving friends right now, just like I did last June 12th.

But I am not.

[Ahbroody]

Hey Mike :fu

I hope the Wings can continue to pester the Sharks like this. That game reminded me of the game 7 against the Coyotes. The Wings will have their backs to the wall for 3 more games, and so far I like how they play when that's the case :) 6 points for Franzen, third most for a playoff game in NHL history.

Before I get too excited, last time Nabakov allowed a 5-game goal, SJ beat Colorado in OT. Then Nabakov only allowed 5 goals in 4 games. The Sharks can easily put this game behind them knowing they are up 3-1.

Hope to see some more hockey at the Joe ;)

Uh Hi :xxx
I got to wonder if Lindstrom will be back. His contract is up and he likely can see this team will not be the super power it has been. Intersting times for you guys in the D. Well atleast has a while to think about it.

Wings are a class franchise. Its hard not to like Datsyuk especially knowing his story. Howard showed he is a very capable goalie and will likely server the wings well in the years ahead. Good series, glad its over.

If I was the gloating kind, I would be texting my Wings-Loving friends right now, just like I did last June 12th.

But I am not.
Well I am let me tell you I got a few "FU" replies back. :r

[icehog3]

Congrats Mike on your Sharks taking the next step.

Wings had a good season considering all the obstacles, and will be right back making things tough in the West next season.

Hoping the Hawks can send Luongo to the golf tees on Monday morn.

[Ahbroody]

No need to rush Tom I am sure the Sharks are in a hurry to play the Hawks. Take your time the Sharks could use the rest.

[GreekGodX]

I don't know who I'm going to root for now in the playoffs :td

Good win by the Sharks. Team is good and looks like Big Joe is stepping up his play at the right time. Maybe Marleau and/or Pavelski will be in a Wings jersey next year, I wouldn't mind that. ;)

Lidstrom's decision will have a big impact on the team. He leaves and we get about 8 million in salary cap relief but we will have a huge drop off in D. Holmstrom is also a UFA which I think we'll see him back. Hudler is coming back from Russia to sign with the Wings to bring back some offense we lost. Looking forward to see what moves they make.

In non-player moves I hope we can keep Stevie Y in the front office. Ken Holland isn't going to move out of the GM spot anytime soon but if we can keep both of them that will definitely help the Wings future.

[yourchoice]

Congrats to the Sharks and their fans on advancing. A couple of monkeys have been shed off some people's backs!

[Ahbroody]

I don't know who I'm going to root for now in the playoffs :td

Good win by the Sharks. Team is good and looks like Big Joe is stepping up his play at the right time. Maybe Marleau and/or Pavelski will be in a Wings jersey next year, I wouldn't mind that. ;)


Patty wont be going to the D. His wife is from here and he has a child now. He made mention of taking a little less because this is his home and where he wants to be.
We have 2 RFA's and I think the SHarks will be keeping both Seto and Pavs. I also have it on good authority Blake will not be back so there is some money cleared up there. No way the SHarks are letting Pavs go. He has gotten them where they are. Our big issue will be goaltending this summer. Nabby is 38 and seems questionable if the Sharks will resign him. Also I thought Nichol and Malholtra were on 1 year Ks. Will they be able to keep both as they will likely want a raise. Funny both those players took less money to come here because they liked the chance of winning a cup. Hmmmmmmmm.

San Jose Sharks Evgeni Nabokov (UFA) Patrick Marleau (UFA) Joe Pavelski (RFA) Devin Setoguchi (RFA) Rob Blake (UFA) Jody Shelley (UFA)

Detroit Red Wings Nicklas Lidstrom (UFA) Todd Bertuzzi (UFA) Tomas Holmstrom (UFA) Jason Williams (UFA) Darren Helm (RFA) Justin Abdelkader (RFA) Patrick Eaves (RFA)


Chicago Blackhawks Jonathan Toews (RFA) Patrick Kane (RFA) Duncan Keith (RFA) Andrew Ladd (RFA) Antti Niemi (RFA) John Madden (UFA) Ben Eager (RFA) Adam Burish (UFA)

This has changed though right Tom? I thought a few were signed?

All this in mind, I think the Hawks will take the Sharks. Off what I have seen so far in this round they look scarry good and strong.

[icehog3]

Chicago Blackhawks Jonathan Toews (RFA) Patrick Kane (RFA) Duncan Keith (RFA) Andrew Ladd (RFA) Antti Niemi (RFA) John Madden (UFA) Ben Eager (RFA) Adam Burish (UFA)

This has changed though right Tom? I thought a few were signed?

All this in mind, I think the Hawks will take the Sharks. Off what I have seen so far in this round they look scarry good and strong.

Toews, Kane and Keith are all signed. The Hawks will buy out Huet's contract to free up some money, and my guess is they will sign Niemi. I think Madden and Eager will be gone, but I hope they keep Ladd, and I am not sure what they will do with Burish. They will likely have to shed some additional salary, so at least one big player (Sharp, Versteeg?) will probably get traded for picks/prospects as well. :(

Don't be so sure about the Hawks beating the Sharks, I think the Sharks match up well....goaltending will probably be the key to this series. And I am hoping it starts mid-week (Hawks need to finish Canucks tonight at home, so they can have a couple extra days before flying out West again). :)

[Eleven]

Saw some other gear posted here, so of course I have to post my kids newest skates.
He goes through sticks pretty fast too, just bought him a new stick last October and he snapped it in half a month or so ago. Here are the skates, *well* worth the price.
We have found that for kids, if you get the speed down first, everything else comes on its own. We experimented with cheaper ($100 dollar range) skates and quickly learned what good quality will do for you.
I think we paid about $350 for these in Chicago last November:

http://img203.imageshack.us/img203/8971/img00139200911101515.jpg

[Ahbroody]

I tell you I am getting old. I was in the proshop the other day and checked out the new Bauer Supreme One or what ever it is. The skates now only look like skates the materials they are using are crazy. I still have a pair of last gen Pro Tacks. Its crazy to compare the two skates. I know they are supposed to be stronger, but I dont know. The new stuff is light as hell, but the materials are all composite on the outside. How do these hold up?

As someone who has funky feet and has experienced much pain with skates, the skate area is the one area I think you just cant skimp on gear. I still have not told the wife how much his new skates cost. He likes them though and was telling me about how they made him faster. :r who am I to argue with the kid. He cant wear Bauer.

[GreekGodX]

Detroit Red Wings Nicklas Lidstrom (UFA) Todd Bertuzzi (UFA) Tomas Holmstrom (UFA) Jason Williams (UFA) Darren Helm (RFA) Justin Abdelkader (RFA) Patrick Eaves (RFA)



Even with signing Jiri Hudler back from Russia we will still have $13million in cap space. If Lidstrom doesn't retire he's obviously back, Holmstrom is back, and most likely all the RFA's. I don't see us bringing back either Bertuzzi or Williams. Could be interesting to see how much of a player the Wings will be in free agency.

[Eleven]

Not that I really want the Wings to get any better, but here is the formula for success:

Get rid of Bertuzzi and get rid of Eaves. They are cursed.

Bertuzzi Curse (http://www.milehighhockey.com/2010/5/5/1459448/the-bertuzzi-curse)

Eaves Curse (http://www.silversevensens.com/2010/4/13/1418382/the-curse-of-ottawa-senators-draft)

[GreekGodX]

Not that I really want the Wings to get any better, but here is the formula for success:

Get rid of Bertuzzi and get rid of Eaves. They are cursed.

Bertuzzi Curse (http://www.milehighhockey.com/2010/5/5/1459448/the-bertuzzi-curse)

Eaves Curse (http://www.silversevensens.com/2010/4/13/1418382/the-curse-of-ottawa-senators-draft)

The Bertuzzi curse explains everything.

[icehog3]

Credit where credit is due...near perfect road game tonight by the Canucks. They clogged up the passing and shooting lanes all night, and though the Hawks had 30 shots, very few were quality chances. Luongo was much improved in rebound control as well.

I look for the Hawks to make some adjustments, and have a much better game Tuesday night in Vancouver.

[dabigdog]

Well managed road game by the Canucks today. Not to mention an excellent game by Luoongo. Here's hoping they keep it up for Game 6 !!

[icehog3]

Well managed road game by the Canucks today. Not to mention an excellent game by Luoongo. Here's hoping they keep it up for Game 6 !!

There you are! Missed your comments after games 2, 3 and 4. ;)

[GHC_Hambone]

Not a very good game by the Hawks tonight. Here's hoping they will bounce back.

[icehog3]

Another 48 hours....meh. Wish they were playing again Monday.

[ChicagoWhiteSox]

Not a very good game by the Hawks tonight. Here's hoping they will bounce back.

I think we can pull out another win:tu It is hard to play as well as the hawks have been playing in games 2,3, and 4 night after night. I think game 5 was just a little bump in the road, and the hawks just weren't ready for it. Game 6 should be it.

[icehog3]

I think we can pull out another win:tu It is hard to play as well as the hawks have been playing in games 2,3, and 4 night after night. I think game 5 was just a little bump in the road, and the hawks just weren't ready for it. Game 6 should be it.

But then we won't see Sat (dabigdog) in the thread!! ;) :r

[ChicagoWhiteSox]

But then we won't see Sat (dabigdog) in the thread!! ;) :r

Tough one Tom

Win for the hawks, or banter with Sat?? Just too hard for me to choose:r

Im sure he is looking forward to LOTS of banter in this thread though..:tf

[dabigdog]

Tough one Tom

Win for the hawks, or banter with Sat?? Just too hard for me to choose:r

Im sure he is looking forward to LOTS of banter in this thread though..:tf


LMAO! I've been busy crying myself to sleep after game 2,3 & 4 :r

Looking forward to game 6 & 7 !! I just hope we have enough D-men left. LOL! Looks like Salo busted a Nut last night and underwent an operation on his Testicle :hn

[dabigdog]

But then we won't see Sat (dabigdog) in the thread!! ;) :r

Sure, I'll be around....cheering for any team that isn't called CHICAGO :banger:banger

[icehog3]

Looks like Salo busted a Nut last night and underwent an operation on his Testicle :hn

That hurts just thinking about it...hate to see anyone het hurt like that, even a Canuck. :eek:

Sure, I'll be around....cheering for any team that isn't called CHICAGO :banger

Ok, you can see why I was wondering....didn't see you cheering for anyone at all for a 6 day stretch there, that by coincidence was the period between games 2 and 5. ;) :r

[dabigdog]

That hurts just thinking about it...hate to see anyone het hurt like that, even a Canuck. :eek:



Ok, you can see why I was wondering....didn't see you cheering for anyone at all for a 6 day stretch there, that by coincidence was the period between games 2 and 5. ;) :r

Actually, the real reason was that I was busy :D. Didn't get too many opportunities to log on and trash talk. And to be honest, the way the nucks lost game 2,3 & 4, any incentive I had to trash talk was gone anyways :r

[icehog3]

Actually, the real reason was that I was busy :D. Didn't get too many opportunities to log on and trash talk. And to be honest, the way the nucks lost game 2,3 & 4, any incentive I had to trash talk was gone anyways :r

I saw that you had logged on....but I guess you didn't want to face the music when the 'Nucks were screwin' the pooch. :)

If that's the case, no offense intended...but I hope we don't see you tomorrow night. :r

[dabigdog]

I saw that you had logged on....but I guess you didn't want to face the music when the 'Nucks were screwin' the pooch. :)

If that's the case, no offense intended...but I hope we don't see you tomorrow night. :r

No offense taken. Sometimes it's better to hide in a hole somewhere and forget that golfing season is one loss away ...LMAO!

[kazzaca]

Wow...that Pens-Habs game was just crazy. Bring on game 7, this is some exciting hockey!

[Eleven]

Pens need to really get it together. Habs are looking real good!

[GreekGodX]

Habs might be the only team I can root for anymore. Sidney Crosby is the least likable person ever!

[yourchoice]

Flyers have made this a series! The Bruins lack of discipline tonight was pathetic. It looks like their injuries may be catching up to them.

Boucher looks like he may have been seriously hurt tonight. Thank goodness Leighton was able to dress for the first time in 2 months. Hopefully he can get hot and help extend the series further.

For obvious reasons I wasn't able to see much of the Pens/Habs game, but when there was a commercial I caught glimpses. The Bell Centre was rockin'! I wish they weren't playing game 7 the same night the Flyers were playing. Two great nights of hockey ahead Tuesday and Wednesday. :tu

[icehog3]

Great win by the Habs tonight, they are certainly looking like giant-killers! :tu

[Ahbroody]

Habs might be the only team I can root for anymore. Sidney Crosby is the least likable person ever!

uhh no that would be bertuzzi. I don't recall cindy nearly killing someone on the ice by being a goon and ending their carrer. One of the top 5 cheapshots of all time.

not that I like Cindy and all his crying, but dude has skill.

awesome night of hockey tonight. Can the flyers force a game 7?

[icehog3]

Even Bobby Orr's historic flight couldn't inspire the B's tonight.

http://i196.photobucket.com/albums/aa73/icehog3/orrflying.jpg

[kugie]

Props to the Flyers for Coming out last night to play Hockey and want the win.


The Bruins where pathetic last night:2 They played with no heart, no fire no sense of wanting to win last night. Then they take I think it was 3-4 penalties in the third that were just lazy bad penalties.

Maybe game six they can come out with some fire because the way the flyers are playing they will have to...

[Ahbroody]

after the last B's Flyers game they were commenting on how tired the B's looked. What's scary is for this game they looked even slower. This could be very bad. If the flyers take the next one it may spell doom.

[icehog3]

after the last B's Flyers game they were commenting on how tired the B's looked. What's scary is for this game they looked even slower. This could be very bad. If the flyers take the next one it may spell doom.

Hope the Hawks look better in game 6 than the Bruins did.

[GreekGodX]

uhh no that would be bertuzzi. I don't recall cindy nearly killing someone on the ice by being a goon and ending their carrer. One of the top 5 cheapshots of all time.

not that I like Cindy and all his crying, but dude has skill.

awesome night of hockey tonight. Can the flyers force a game 7?

Bertuzzi is irrelevant.

I don't care how much skill Crosby has, I hate him. I can't like a cry baby. He literally disgusts me.

Habs better beat the Pens. I'm fully on the bandwagon.

[icehog3]

Bertuzzi is irrelevant.

I don't care how much skill Crosby has, I hate him. I can't like a cry baby. He literally disgusts me.

Habs better beat the Pens. I'm fully on the bandwagon.

Habs - Hawks SCF? :D

[icehog3]

http://i196.photobucket.com/albums/aa73/icehog3/domi.jpg

[ChicagoWhiteSox]

Getting close to game time. HUGE game for the hawks, hope they can pull off a win.

[mithrilG60]

My predictions are a win for the Hawks tonite followed by a second major upset by the Habs tomorrow!

[ChicagoWhiteSox]

Nice avatar Geoff:D

[GreekGodX]

Habs - Hawks SCF? :D

That Hawks part just makes me cringe :r

[Eleven]

First 5 minutes of this game was some of the best non-scoring hockey I have ever seen.

[Ahbroody]

Salo playing tonight. MANS GAME! Just saw them interview him for a second though. Said he didnt feel much do to the pain meds he's on. LOL

Not sure I liked Buf's hit on Edler looks like he hooked the leg on purpose and as a result Edler was injured.

Hawks score!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Make it 2! 36 seconds apart.

[King James]

come on Hawks! keep it up and get to the next series tonight!

http://www.messnerschicago.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/02/blackhawks.png

[Ahbroody]

Canucks on life support. Will take a huge effort to even tie and down defensemen its not looking to good.

[icehog3]

My predictions are a win for the Hawks tonite followed by a second major upset by the Habs tomorrow!

I could live with that. :)

That Hawks part just makes me cringe :r

:td


3-0 Hawks....let's go for the jugular. :bx

[Eleven]

Whats with that weird gesture Kane just made? He did it twice, kinda looked like he was signaling that he 'Parted the D' or maybe 'The Seas Parted'?

[Gelly]

Hawks win now face the Sharks!

Go Hawks!

Tomorrow's game with the Habs and Pens will be crazy.

Habs and Bruins would be sweeet.

As you may tell, I'm cheering for some new blood in the games this year, but am a Bruins fan so, I need them to kick some ass and skate tomorrow.

[icehog3]

http://i196.photobucket.com/albums/aa73/icehog3/Golf-Canucks.jpg

[icehog3]

http://i196.photobucket.com/albums/aa73/icehog3/LuongoThink.jpg

[Ahbroody]

Officially worried as a Sharks fan.
This series looks like it will be very violent and have a lot of hitting. It could end up making which ever team escapes an easy mark for the Eastern Conf Team.
I am thinking both teams will get their hate on early and often.

If the Habs take the Pens I would love to see Boston take them. Thats if the B's make it to the dance. They have not looked good in the last 2.

All that said this years playoffs have been amazing. Upsets and great action.





LOL Checkout Tom getting his hate on. Man I didnt even hit the Wings like that and you know my disdain. :r

[icehog3]

LOL Checkout Tom getting his hate on. Man I didnt even hit the Wings like that and you know my disdain. :r
I was provoked. :r

[icehog3]

http://i196.photobucket.com/albums/aa73/icehog3/brouwer1.jpg

[Ahbroody]

I was provoked. :r
Wait and I wasnt? All year long? :r

While I would prefer my Sharks to win I am in a happy spot. The Hawks with Cheli and Roenick were my childhood team. The two years JR was on the Sharks I was happy. So I will prefer the Sharks but wont mind seeing the Hawks advance. Either one as long as they go all the way. :tu

[icehog3]

Wait and I wasnt? All year long? :r

While I would prefer my Sharks to win I am in a happy spot. The Hawks with Cheli and Roenick were my childhood team. The two years JR was on the Sharks I was happy. So I will prefer the Sharks but wont mind seeing the Hawks advance. Either one as long as they go all the way. :tu

I have a buddy who used to be the Sharks back-up goalie, Mike. I would be happy for you if the Sharks advance, and would root for Pavelski to get a Cup. But I would be lying if I said I would be happy for anyone but the two of you. ;)

[dabigdog]

Well, there's always next year :( Props to Chicago...two years in a row ....damn!

[icehog3]

Well, there's always next year :( Props to Chicago...two years in a row ....damn!

Gotta admit the Canucks had me nervous more than once....props to them for a good season.

[icehog3]

Well, there's always next year :( Props to Chicago...two years in a row ....damn!

Aren't ya glad we didn't make it 10 sticks now? ;)