NHL '11 - '12 Thread

[mithrilG60]

The initial phone hearing was changed to an in-person hearing so you can bet it'll be more like 5 - 10 games given the circumstances. Of course it's also very nearly the silly season again and therefore time for the NHL to roll out the Wheel of Randomized Justice (tm) in order to dispense completely irrational and total unpredictable disciplinary actions.


5 games.

[icehog3]

5 games.

I think that's fair. :2

[mithrilG60]

I think that's fair. :2

Provisional on how long Sedin is out I'd agree. I firmly believe that with hits like that, on any player, the offender should be sitting for as long as the injured player is out AND the offenders team shouldn't be allowed to dress a replacement. It's not possible under the current rule structure but the changes should be made to allow it's implementation.

[44stampede]

Provisional on how long Sedin is out I'd agree. I firmly believe that with hits like that, on any player, the offender should be sitting for as long as the injured player is out AND the offenders team shouldn't be allowed to dress a replacement. It's not possible under the current rule structure but the changes should be made to allow it's implementation.
yeah that would be a plan. Garbage like that needs to be taken out of the game. Not sure a few games or these 2500$ fines really do much to deter. The guy makes 4 million a year and you fine him 2500...

[mithrilG60]

Actually it's closer to $250,000. At $4 million per year Keith makes $48,780 per game and players forfeit their salary when suspended.

[44stampede]

Actually it's closer to $250,000. At $4 million per year Keith makes $48,780 per game and players forfeit their salary when suspended.
good point. I was referring to the NHL fine (and I really don't know what it is in this case but writing historically) but yeah that has to sting a little.

[mithrilG60]

Actually it's closer to $250,000. At $4 million per year Keith makes $48,780 per game and players forfeit their salary when suspended.

Correction, the Chicago Tribune is reporting that he will forfeit $149,688.15 in salary. Not pocket change exactly but still not a huge dent in his personal finances.

[icehog3]

Provisional on how long Sedin is out I'd agree. I firmly believe that with hits like that, on any player, the offender should be sitting for as long as the injured player is out AND the offenders team shouldn't be allowed to dress a replacement. It's not possible under the current rule structure but the changes should be made to allow it's implementation.

Can they make it retroactive so Todd Bertuzzi can be out of the NHL? ;)

I disagree with some of your argument, let's take the case at hand as an example: The Canucks can replace Sedin in the line-up, so if he were to miss 15 games, then the Hawks should only dress 19 for 15 games while the Canucks dress 20? Players Union will never allow that to happen.

How about Scott Stevens' hit on Eric Lindros in the 2000 playoffs? By today's standards, it would be deemed illegal (targeting the head). If Lindros were concussed and could never play again because of ongoing problems, should Stevens be out of the league for life?

Or David Steckel's hit on Crosby in the 2010 Winter Classic....it could be deemed intentional, or unintentional, depending on perspective. Crosby has missed most of 2 seasons for the effects and after effects of that hit. Should Steckel be sitting?

It's a fast game, played at a furious pace with decisons and instinctual moves made in fractions of seconds sometimes. Keith's hit was dirty and he deserves to be suspended, but what if Sedin is "softer" than some of the NHL players, and takes 20 games to recover from a hit that most would recover from in 3....you see where I am going, so I won't continue to belabor the point. It's not just "homer" logic either, as I sit watching Jonathan Toews miss his 17th game due to a head shot.

Not directed at being argumentative with you, Geoff, just some of my thoughts on the "tit for tat" suspension ideas I have heared bandied about. :)

[mithrilG60]

Or Mr Flying Elbow himself (aka Steve Moore).... oh wait.... ;)

The Bertuzzi Incident was a direct result of the league screwing the pooch on Moore's elbow to Naslund. The fact that they haven't learned yet speaks volumes, although it is improving I s'pose. In the good old days the NHL seems to think are still the norm Keith would have been stretchered off the ice at some point in the remainder of that game.

[icehog3]

Or Mr Flying Elbow himself (aka Steve Moore).... oh wait.... ;)

The Bertuzzi Incident was a direct result of the league screwing the pooch on Moore's elbow to Naslund. The fact that they haven't learned yet speaks volumes, although it is improving I s'pose. In the good old days the NHL seems to think are still the norm Keith would have been stretchered off the ice at some point in the remainder of that game.

Or maybe just pulled off the ice by his hair.... ;)

[mithrilG60]

Lol

[icehog3]

A few of huge games for playoff position in the West tonight.

San Jose - Phoenix

Vancouver - Colorado

Los Angeles - Boston

I need one of those TVs with screens that divide into thirds. ;)

[44stampede]

Sorry to celebrate in your misery Tom but real glad Nash pulled that out. I was losing in my hockey pool playoffs to a real d@$k. Rinne is one of my goalies so I needed a strong game after he crapped the bed earlier this week.
The Blues are going tone real tough. Another real strong game from them. Their goal tending is sick

[icehog3]

Yup, that was a stinker. Missed the game though, my men's league team was busy winning our second championship in 2 years....so I am pretty happy tonight as far as hockey goes. :)

http://i196.photobucket.com/albums/aa73/icehog3/Lasers2012.jpg

[44stampede]

Congrats bud

[Bruins Fan]

Yup, that was a stinker. Missed the game though, my men's league team was busy winning our second championship in 2 years....so I am pretty happy tonight as far as hockey goes. :)

http://i196.photobucket.com/albums/aa73/icehog3/Lasers2012.jpg

Congratulations Tom. :tu

[icehog3]

Thanks John and Brett! :D

[Ahbroody]

Yup, that was a stinker. Missed the game though, my men's league team was busy winning our second championship in 2 years....so I am pretty happy tonight as far as hockey goes. :)

http://i196.photobucket.com/albums/aa73/icehog3/Lasers2012.jpg

See your playing in the over 70 division.
Congrats brother.

[mithrilG60]

I disagree with some of your argument, let's take the case at hand as an example: The Canucks can replace Sedin in the line-up, so if he were to miss 15 games, then the Hawks should only dress 19 for 15 games while the Canucks dress 20? Players Union will never allow that to happen.

That's why I say it's not possible under the current rules, but the current rules are also obviously not discouraging enough to stop hits like this from occurring. As I mentioned above, $150K isn't exactly pocket change but it's also not a massive amount of money to someone with the salary of Duncan Keith. However $600K (to use your example of Sedin being out for 15 games + the 5 game suspension) is a significant hit.

If the Players Union was serious about protecting their membership then they wouldn't have a problem with implementing a clause like this in the next CBA. I know that Keith being out of the lineup is actually a bit of a problem for the Hawks, he's your ice time leader and due to injuries he'll be hard to backfill, but there is no real penalty imposed at the team level to act as an incentive to change the game's culture and ultimately that's what's needed.

Yes Keith received a suspension, and one that was harsh for a first timer, but the Canucks have lost their leading scorer (and the NHL's reigning Art Ross Trophy holder) for an indefinite period of time heading into the post-season. I'm not saying that it was Keith's intention to do that, but ultimately why should the Canucks or any other team be forced to endure a bigger disadvantage due to a blatantly illegal and dangerous hit? It's life when a player is injured via an accidental impact or play, when it's a hit like this the offending player's team should have to bear an equal or bigger disadvantage for as long as the injured player is out.


How about Scott Stevens' hit on Eric Lindros in the 2000 playoffs? By today's standards, it would be deemed illegal (targeting the head). If Lindros were concussed and could never play again because of ongoing problems, should Stevens be out of the league for life?

Or David Steckel's hit on Crosby in the 2010 Winter Classic....it could be deemed intentional, or unintentional, depending on perspective. Crosby has missed most of 2 seasons for the effects and after effects of that hit. Should Steckel be sitting?


It's impossible and pointless to play revisionist history, that's part of the reason why I get so frustrated with the Don Cherry mentality of look how great (or at least) ok it was in the "good old days". In the really good old days Gordie Howe had to have a hole drilled in his skull to relieve pressure on his brain and then he was expected back out on the ice. Now he's a recluse who is so damaged by the long term effects of head trauma that he wouldn't even attend his own son's induction into the Hall of Fame.

In the context of current knowledge, yes Steven's should have been banned for life many times over for his behaviour. So should have Bertuzzi for his hit on Moore, Moore should have been heavily suspended for his hit on Naslund and so should have Torres for his hit on Seabrook. Wendel Clark, Joey Kocur, Bob Probert, etc etc etc. The list is endless, but you can't penalize the past anymore than you can apply current values to it. The solution is to actually put in REAL penalties moving forward.

First leading hit to the head; 25 games. Second; half season. Third; full season. Fourth; here's your retirement papers. No if's and's or buts about it, those are automatic suspensions in the same way that high sticking is automatically 4 min if blood is drawn. If the player you injured is out for longer than the period of your suspension, your suspension is extended indefinitely until they are medically cleared to play. During the course of your suspension your team cannot call up or dress a replacement. I promise you that all of a sudden you'll see all the crap disappear from the game.


It's a fast game, played at a furious pace with decisons and instinctual moves made in fractions of seconds sometimes. Keith's hit was dirty and he deserves to be suspended, but what if Sedin is "softer" than some of the NHL players, and takes 20 games to recover from a hit that most would recover from in 3....you see where I am going, so I won't continue to belabor the point. It's not just "homer" logic either, as I sit watching Jonathan Toews miss his 17th game due to a head shot.

If Sedin is softer and takes longer to recover then tough titties for the Hawks. As I mentioned above why should the Canucks (in this example) be forced to play at a significant disadvantage for longer than the team of the offending player? The only thing is there would need to be league oversight of the medical clearance to prevent teams from using injuries like the one to Sedin in brinksmanship games.

The "it's a fast game" argument is bunkum, these guys are s'posed to be highly tuned professional athletes, if they can't control their appendages and/or instinctual hit in the legal manner they've been taught since they were in their early teens then they don't belong on the ice.

Look at the number of genuine stars the league has lost for significant periods of time to concussion and head injury. Crosby, Toews, Sedin, etc as a fan of hockey those are the guys you want out there every night showcasing their skills. It's want sells and grows the game. Even the NFL is getting serious about enforcement (albeit due to legal threats from players that have had their careers ended), what will it take for the NHL to finally step up and remove this crap from the game? A death on prime time network tv?

[Ahbroody]

Hands down longest post ever in this thread.
T L T R

[icehog3]

All valid points, Geoff, with the possible exception of the Player's Union backing the suspensions you propose...it will never happen, bet my job on it.

Also even making the suspensions automatic will be a problem, as there are often hits which impact the head, where the head was not "targeted". Who makes the subjective call on the objective standard.

I agree competely that head hits warrant some changes. I would argue that the Hawks' loss of Toews is more significant than the Canucks losing Daniel, but that is subjective as well. I just doin't think the changes that you propose have a popsicle's chance in Hell of getting put into place. That being said, I reitierate that I think you make lots of valid points.

[Wanger]

Wow!

[mithrilG60]

All valid points, Geoff, with the possible exception of the Player's Union backing the suspensions you propose...it will never happen, bet my job on it.

Also even making the suspensions automatic will be a problem, as there are often hits which impact the head, where the head was not "targeted". Who makes the subjective call on the objective standard.

I agree competely that head hits warrant some changes. I would argue that the Hawks' loss of Toews is more significant than the Canucks losing Daniel, but that is subjective as well. I just doin't think the changes that you propose have a popsicle's chance in Hell of getting put into place. That being said, I reitierate that I think you make lots of valid points.

I don't expect it will ever happen, but it's actions like that which are needed to remove these kind of hits from the game. This air-fairy small suspension crap that the league seems to want to hand out is just not disincentive enough to make a real difference.

The ONLY way to remove it is to enforce mandatory penalties. Given Shannahan (or whoever) the ability to excise judgement calls in headshots just leads to scenarios where weak meaningless suspensions are issued and the game continues on as before because there's no muscle in the punishment. Automatic penalties force players to be accountable for their actions and while some may very occasionally get the shaft the overall result will be to almost entirely remove headshots from the game.

Rugby did it with spear tackles. The NFL did it with head contact. The NHL needs to do it with headshots.

I'd agree with out that Toews is probably more important overall to the Hawks org than Sedin is to the Canucks (especially in March :rolleyes: ) but just because the Canucks currently have greater offensive depth doesn't discount the fact that they are now without their top offensive player and the league has lost yet another of it's star players. To me it doesn't really matter whether you're talking about the league's top star or the least skilled 4th liner on the last place team in the league.... the penalty for a headshot should be the same and it should be very very harsh.

[icehog3]

Again, I agree with most of your points. Just don't see how the "Automatic" part would work because there are too many subjective factors to treat each case exactly the same. :2

[E.J.]

Think Avs have to win their next 4 or pull out the golf clubs... Though they may have exceeded my expectations, they have sleepwalked some games late(PHX)... Where is Matty D when we need him?

GO AVS!!!!

[mithrilG60]

That's the good thing about automatic penalties though, it removes all of the subjective factors which are currently preventing progress on the issue. For example, look at what rugby did to remove spear tackles from the game.

You are responsible as the tackler to control your man and guide him to the ground in a safe and legal matter. If you raise his ankles above his waist in the tackle, whether it's and you get an automatic red card (leaving your team 1 man short for the rest of the match) and a game suspension.

It doesn't matter whether your action was intentional or accidental, you failed in your responsibility to protect another player's safety on the field and you have to pay the consequence. You are also automatically reviewed by a disciplinary panel and if the act is deemed intentional you are subjected to further fines and suspensions.

While a 1 match automatic suspension may not sound like a lot, the average professional rugby player plays about 16 matches per year (1 a week, just like the NFL) so that's roughly equal to an NHL player getting an automatic 5 game suspension. As a result of that rule change spear tackles have all be been removed for the game and a lot of serious head and spinal injuries avoided.

It's worked in other high speed, high impact professional sports... there's no reason other than the NHL's unwillingness to be accountable that it can't work here too.

[icehog3]

That's the good thing about automatic penalties though, it removes all of the subjective factors which are currently preventing progress on the issue. For example, look at what rugby did to remove spear tackles from the game.

You are responsible as the tackler to control your man and guide him to the ground in a safe and legal matter. If you raise his ankles above his waist in the tackle, whether it's and you get an automatic red card (leaving your team 1 man short for the rest of the match) and a game suspension.

It doesn't matter whether your action was intentional or accidental, you failed in your responsibility to protect another player's safety on the field and you have to pay the consequence. You are also automatically reviewed by a disciplinary panel and if the act is deemed intentional you are subjected to further fines and suspensions.

This IS subjective!

While a 1 match automatic suspension may not sound like a lot, the average professional rugby player plays about 16 matches per year (1 a week, just like the NFL) so that's roughly equal to an NHL player getting an automatic 5 game suspension. As a result of that rule change spear tackles have all be been removed for the game and a lot of serious head and spinal injuries avoided.

It's worked in other high speed, high impact professional sports... there's no reason other than the NHL's unwillingness to be accountable that it can't work here too.

OK, I can go with rugby's lead. So now the NHL will mandate a hit to the head is an automatic one game suspension. Then hits will be automatically reviewed by a disciplinary panel and if the act is deemed intentional they are subjected to further fines and suspensions.

Not a lot different really, is it?

[mithrilG60]

The secondary review is subjective, the initial penalties are not. As a direct result of the new rule almost every single one of the incidents sent to that review board is an accidental lift in the course of normal play.... there are very very few internationals anymore. It's completely removed the Matt Cooke-ism from the game of rugby.

I'm more than fine with running with rugby's example as a start. If the league would implement an automatic 5 min major, game misconduct and 5 game minimum suspension (remember, 1 game in rugby is 1/16th of the season which is 5 games in an 82 game season) for all headshots with a mandatory review to determine if there was intent and therefore further suspension I bet you'd see a huge change in player behaviour.

Now, gotta hop in a cab to head down to Rogers Arena to see if the Canucks can manage to do something against the Kings :D

[icehog3]

I actually will say good luck to the Canucks tonight, anybody below the Hawks in the hunt needs to lose. :lr

[44stampede]

Good convo going here.

I am with Geoff for the most part. All good points. When there is something tough to measure like intent we still need something to penalize otherwise there is no way to change the culture. I hate not seeing Crosby out there. Everyone loses by not having those superstars including Toews and Sedin on the ice. It is bound to happen where an "innocent" person gets penalized for a hit that was an accident but if it is on a sliding scale as Geoff points out, it is highly unlikely that the same person would accidently do it again and again.

It's still unlikely something sweeping like that would happen. Small moves are usually the par for the course. I think they are getting closer to coming out with something.

[Ahbroody]

Think Avs have to win their next 4 or pull out the golf clubs... Though they may have exceeded my expectations, they have sleepwalked some games late(PHX)... Where is Matty D when we need him?

GO AVS!!!!

Sorry brother. The Sharks played a great game and the hockey gods smiled on them. Sharks take over lead in the pacific and go from 9th to 3rd

[mithrilG60]

I actually will say good luck to the Canucks tonight, anybody below the Hawks in the hunt needs to lose. :lr

You're welcome ;)

[icehog3]

You're welcome ;)

Shutout bonus! Bobby Luo is my fantasy team goalie. :r

[E.J.]

Sorry brother. The Sharks played a great game and the hockey gods smiled on them. Sharks take over lead in the pacific and go from 9th to 3rd

We were getting update feeds here and killing our pain with liquor, Mike... Ugh.... That's a wrap....

Flip side, good for your Sharks

[E.J.]

Side note, though not an Avs game, they're showing hockey nightly at our hotel in the sports bar, sweet deal...:tu

[44stampede]

Some BIG games in the west. Flames need this and the Oil need to make fodder of the Stars.

[44stampede]

Come on VAN!

[icehog3]

Flames and Avs are toast. Looks like the Sharks, Stars, Kings and Yotes are in for a crazy couple weeks.

[icehog3]

Heading down to the United Center tomorrow night, hoping the Hawks can give the Blues a good game without Toews and Keith.

[mithrilG60]

Don't forget it's also Leaf Day

http://www.mithril.ca/img/leaf-day.jpg

[icehog3]

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

[Bruins Fan]

The fans at the T D Garden love Phil, you always hear the Thank You Kessel Chant when the Leafs come to town :r

[drjammer]

Flames and Avs are toast. Looks like the Sharks, Stars, Kings and Yotes are in for a crazy couple weeks.
Yea and I thought the Avs might have had a chance of making it in :td

[Wanger]

don't forget it's also leaf day

http://www.mithril.ca/img/leaf-day.jpg

lmao!!!

[Ahbroody]

Flames and Avs are toast. Looks like the Sharks, Stars, Kings and Yotes are in for a crazy couple weeks.

Dont go giving the Sharks more credit then they deserve. Looking like theybare not going to make it. Marleau 2 goals in the last 18 games if you need him. The team has scorred one goal in 2 games. Times like this is when you expect your vets to make a difference not be a non factor.

[icehog3]

Watched them last night when I got home from the Hawks game, Mike. Very disappointing.

[Mr B]

Freaking Sharks!!! Coture has been on a pretty good schnide too. He has been getting the crap beat out of him since the All Stars. Welcome to the Big Boys.

[357]

My wife Kim surprised me with Wings tickets for my birthday today. On my way to see the Wings/Preds fight for home ice right now. Howard first start since 3/18 I think. Hope he's not rusty.
Posted via Mobile Device

[icehog3]

My wife Kim surprised me with Wings tickets for my birthday today. On my way to see the Wings/Preds fight for home ice right now. Howard first start since 3/18 I think. Hope he's not rusty.
Posted via Mobile Device

They could just split up the series, and give the Hawks 4th place. ;)

:hb

[Bigwaved]

I gotta say, my Blueshirts are just playing some solid, good, old fashion hockey this season. It is refreshing to see.

[Ahbroody]

Freaking Sharks!!! Coture has been on a pretty good schnide too. He has been getting the crap beat out of him since the All Stars. Welcome to the Big Boys.

Well when you have Marleau stopping to pick up his glove instead of back checking which ended in a goal and not scoring you pretty much can focus on Pavs and Logan. Marleau has turned into such a useless player this year. I am amazed hes +2. The guy has been a ghost. Hes not the only one, but the worse. JR maybe was right. Clowe the other night post game said everyone knows what their job is. Some people arent doing their job.

[Partagaspete]

With the Loss today the Isles are officially eliminated from the post season dance. I am sad but optimistic with the core group pf guys we have. I just hope Snow dosn't Fvck it up. He has done well so far in my book.

So Baseball season is starting hmmm...

[icehog3]

Heading down to the United Center for the Hawks last regular season home game versus the Wild. Let's Go Hawks!

http://i196.photobucket.com/albums/aa73/icehog3/Hossa-1.jpg

[Ahbroody]

Have fun.

Sharks had a nice win yesterday. Fairly chippy game with some fights. Ott ejected. They play again Tuesday and expect a very nasty game.

[icehog3]

Have fun.

Sharks had a nice win yesterday. Fairly chippy game with some fights. Ott ejected. They play again Tuesday and expect a very nasty game.

Potentially the loser books tee times. Huge game, can't wait!

[mithrilG60]

Christ, I can't keep up with the Pacific Division. As it stands right now Vancouver gets San Jose in a repeat of last year's Conference Final but god only knows what's going to happen there. I think the NHL's system of seeding the Division leaders no lower than 3rd regardless of their point totally is completely idiotic.

Either way, Vancouver is now 1st in the West and tied on points with the Rangers for first overall. Our last 3 games (Anaheim, Calgary, Edmonton) are, on paper anyways, much easier than either the Blues (Detroit, Phoenix, Dallas) or the Rangers (Boston, Philly, Pitsburgh, Washington) so there's a good chance that we'll repeat last year with both 1st in the West and President's Trophy.

If only the Canucks would find their offense again instead of relying on the goaltending to bail them out. It works ok when both your goalies are at a level that places them as the #1 on basically any team in the league but it's just not sustainable. God it's going to suck losing Schneider in the off-season. It's going to suck even more seeing him in Maple Leaf blue, especially for him going from one of the top teams in the league to a team that really doesn't even deserve to be in the NHL based on it's caliber of play over the last decade :(

[Ahbroody]

Whoooooo baby what a game pens and philly

[mithrilG60]

Can't believe I actually have to root for Boston today...

[icehog3]

I think the NHL's system of seeding the Division leaders no lower than 3rd regardless of their point totally is completely idiotic.

(

Agreed....would sure like the NHLPA go along with the 4 division format that was proposed earlier this year.

Off to the Hawks game soon.

[mithrilG60]

Agreed....would sure like the NHLPA go along with the 4 division format that was proposed earlier this year.

That'd be a good step, I still prefer the idea of extending the regular season slightly so you play every team in the league 3 times a year and the top 16 teams in the league make the playoffs regardless of conference. That eliminates scenario's like Vancouver's where a large part of the reason they're ranked as high as they are is because they're in a pathetically weak division and it means that you don't have the yearly BS of the 14th, 15th or 16th ranked teams (based on points) not making the playoffs because they're in the stronger conference.

[Bruins Fan]

Can't believe I actually have to root for Boston today...
:sw :lr

[mithrilG60]

Lol, I've been a Habs fan my entire life and a Canucks fan for the last decade after moving to Vancouver. Trust me, rooting for Boston goes entirely against my genetics but the Bruins beating the Rangers today helps the Canucks towards repeating as regular season champs so... (holds nose) go Bruins go (runs to bathroom and pukes) ;)

[Bruins Fan]

Should be a good game always a close contest.

[E.J.]

Watching the Rangers & Bruins, drinking an American style lager(Miller Lite) and wondering why I didn't stay in Cancun for another week to watch.....;).

Go Avs 2012-13!

[E.J.]

^^^Miller Lite > Dos Equis

[Ahbroody]

Because vacations cost money and mexico doesnt have a professional hockey team?
Im just shooting in the dark. Oooh and you gots one of those damn j o bs

[mithrilG60]

Thank you Bruins, now I can return to hating you like normal :r

[E.J.]

Because vacations cost money and mexico doesnt have a professional hockey team?
Im just shooting in the dark. Oooh and you gots one of those damn j o bs

B I N G O.... Well, money at least... They were showing soccer on two of four televisions & I have like 280ish hours of banked vacation(7 weeks?) that I can burn..... Though, if I said I was leaving for 7....they may ask me to think of them.....;)

[icehog3]

Fun Hawks game tonight, several fights and a Hawks goal with 2:30 left to grab a point.

Brandon Bollig said something to Heatly while lining up for a face off that sent Heatly over the deep end, and had one of the other Wild challenging Bollig after the puck dropped. I mean Heatly just went berserk. I hope it didn't have anything to do with Heatly's vehicular homicide charge....I don't care for Heatly, but that would still be bush league.

[icehog3]

Set the TiVo to watch the highlights when I got home from the Hawks game. Thr Tribune company is apparently at odds with Directv, so all that got taped was a notice from Directv that the owner of the station has pulled the rights from DirectV to broadcast it.

The majority of Hawks games are on Comcast Sports Channel, the Tribune station (WGN) does about 15 games a year, and I believe tonight was their last one for the season...but I would have been livid if I hadn't had tickets and the game wasn't on TV.

[kugie]

A sign at the Bruins Jets game.

Good for Him:tu

http://i.imgur.com/E0Zys.png

[Bruins Fan]

A sign at the Bruins Jets game.

Good for Him:tu

http://i.imgur.com/E0Zys.png

That's to funny :r

[IBQTEE1]

Fun Hawks game tonight, several fights and a Hawks goal with 2:30 left to grab a point.

Brandon Bollig said something to Heatly while lining up for a face off that sent Heatly over the deep end, and had one of the other Wild challenging Bollig after the puck dropped. I mean Heatly just went berserk. I hope it didn't have anything to do with Heatly's vehicular homicide charge....I don't care for Heatly, but that would still be bush league.

This was a great game to watch live. To quote Tom before the game "its the last game so there won't be any fights". Wrong!! I think by the 3rd one we knew it was going to be a crazy game.

[icehog3]

This was a great game to watch live. To quote Tom before the game "its the last game so there won't be any fights". Wrong!! I think by the 3rd one we knew it was going to be a crazy game.

That's not the quote, I said "Minnesota has no playoff hopes so there won't be any fights"....but I was still way off. :r

Looks like Tyler is laughing at that sign....wonder if he remembers the skanks? :r

[Wanger]

That's not the quote, I said "Minnesota has no playoff hopes so there won't be any fights"....but I was still way off. :r

Looks like Tyler is laughing at that sign....wonder if he remembers the skanks? :r

The local sports station was bemoaning the fact that the Wild have won three in a row at "the worst possible time", harming their lottery chances. LOL Whatever. They have an influx of young talent on the way over the next 2 seasons, and if they stay healthier next year, they could become a force to be reckoned with once that talent matures. Not only that, they are expected to be a fairly big player in the free agent market over the offseason, and reportedly have a native son as their main target:
http://3.cdn.nhle.com/lightning/images/upload/2012/01/parise600.jpg

[Ahbroody]

Hooooray for puck bunnies.

[Wanger]

Hooooray for puck bunnies.

Bigger pic from in the funny pics thread...

http://i672.photobucket.com/albums/vv82/kelmac07_photo/541621_10150650254997919_303859677918_9691270_1829 107547_n.jpg

At least they look pretty cute there. :)

[Ahbroody]

odd officiating in kings oilers game. End of First kopitar slashes and breaks and oilers stick going to net looking for a rebound. Two pieces of stick laying on ice no call. Hopkins in second barely touches Richards who goes down and gets a slashing call. Now a tripping call when the oiler clearly got the puck first.

[357]

Close but not quite....

http://video.redwings.nhl.com/videocenter/console?catid=-6&id=169351


I love watching this guy play!

[Gophernut]

The local sports station was bemoaning the fact that the Wild have won three in a row at "the worst possible time", harming their lottery chances. LOL Whatever. They have an influx of young talent on the way over the next 2 seasons, and if they stay healthier next year, they could become a force to be reckoned with once that talent matures. Not only that, they are expected to be a fairly big player in the free agent market over the offseason, and reportedly have a native son as their main target:


That would be a good get for the Wild!

[icehog3]

Buffalo playing like they want to miss the playoffs.....

[Ahbroody]

think the way it sits in the pacific right now is the way it will end.
Dallas has to win out against Nashville and St. Louis. Not likely
San Jose would need to take both games I think to leap them as I think the kings have a better record against sharks.
phoenix has St. Louis and minn unlikely they will beat the blues.

Either way the Sharks get the blues or canucks and are likely one and done.

[cobra03]

Buffalo playing like they want to miss the playoffs.....

I gave up on that game when i almost threw my phone at the wall as Toronto went up 5-3. I turned the tv back on expecting to see the post game show and some how im watching them win in ot. This season has been hell on my nerves but i'll take it.

[icehog3]

I gave up on that game when i almost threw my phone at the wall as Toronto went up 5-3. I turned the tv back on expecting to see the post game show and some how im watching them win in ot. This season has been hell on my nerves but i'll take it.

It was a great and exciting comeback, still hoping they can overtake the Caps.

[Wanger]

That would be a good get for the Wild!

I know they've been talking about it since before this season. Plus, the fact that he's built a huge new house here. I know they're likely to throw a boatload of $ at him. Imagine a line of him and Heatley, centered by Koivu, and a second line featuring Setoguchi and Granlund and maybe someone like Clutterbuck or Cullen. It would be HUGE for this franchise to bring in a player of his caliber. Of course, all this doesn't mean jack shyte if none of them can stay healthy. Not only that, the other young talent they are expecting to have come in. This franchinse has a bright future ahead, and adding Parise would make it damn close to blinding, IMO.

[Gophernut]

I know they've been talking about it since before this season. Plus, the fact that he's built a huge new house here. I know they're likely to throw a boatload of $ at him. Imagine a line of him and Heatley, centered by Koivu, and a second line featuring Setoguchi and Granlund and maybe someone like Clutterbuck or Cullen. It would be HUGE for this franchise to bring in a player of his caliber. Of course, all this doesn't mean jack shyte if none of them can stay healthy. Not only that, the other young talent they are expecting to have come in. This franchinse has a bright future ahead, and adding Parise would make it damn close to blinding, IMO.

That Zucker kid from Denver put a move on the defense last night that had a couple of jocks laying on the ice. Unfortunately he lost the puck before he had a chance to do anything after getting past them. I agree with the young talent this team could do something sooner rather than later, but health has been such an issue all season long.

[icehog3]

Hey, did any of the Minnesota papers pick up or report on what was said to Heatly by Bollig in Chicago last Sunday?

[cobra03]

It was a great and exciting comeback, still hoping they can overtake the Caps.

You and me both. They had there chance last weekend and blew it, lets hope its not to late.

[Gophernut]

Hey, did any of the Minnesota papers pick up or report on what was said to Heatly by Bollig in Chicago last Sunday?

Nothing that I read. I'll take a little closer look at Monday's paper, but I hadn't heard anything.

[icehog3]

Nothing that I read. I'll take a little closer look at Monday's paper, but I hadn't heard anything.

Never seen a non-fighter type so angry before a face-off in all my years of watching.

[mithrilG60]

Never seen a non-fighter type so angry before a face-off in all my years of watching.

There's some speculation that Bollig was chirping about Heatley's old vehicular manslaughter charge...

[Wanger]

There's some speculation that Bollig was chirping about Heatley's old vehicular manslaughter charge...

If that's the case, it's a bit bush league, to me. But, he did do it, so it's fair game, I suppose. :confused:

[mithrilG60]

If that's the case, it's a bit bush league, to me. But, he did do it, so it's fair game, I suppose. :confused:

It's bush league but it also depends largely on what was said, Snyder was one of Heatley's best friends afterall. On ice trash talk is one thing but there are limits to what acceptable and to me personally something like that would be crossing the line almost as much as trash talking an opponents kids.

[Gophernut]

It's bush league but it also depends largely on what was said, Snyder was one of Heatley's best friends afterall. On ice trash talk is one thing but there are limits to what acceptable and to me personally something like that would be crossing the line almost as much as trash talking an opponents kids.

I agree with this 100%. It's one thing to trash talk, but to do it about that... I sure hope that wasn't the case.

[icehog3]

There's some speculation that Bollig was chirping about Heatley's old vehicular manslaughter charge...

That thought crossed my mind, as I couldn't think what else could make him so angry. As I stated earlier in the thread, hope that's not the case...I really like this Bollig kid, but that would be a huge mark against him in my book, even if I think Heatly is a douche.

[Wanger]

That thought crossed my mind, as I couldn't think what else could make him so angry. As I stated earlier in the thread, hope that's not the case...I really like this Bollig kid, but that would be a huge mark against him in my book, even if I think Heatly is a douche.

Rematch tonight. We'll see what fireworks occur.

I do agree about trash talk. There's good trash talk, and some things that I would personally stay away from, as I'd call them bush league. Maybe the Wild need to send Kassian out there and line him up across from Bollig. A midwest version Rangers-Devils? LOL

[icehog3]

Papers here are expecting a repeat of the fireworks. :bx

[mithrilG60]

Shouldn't be much in the way of fireworks but a win tonight for the Canucks clinches the Western Conference and forces the decider on the President's Trophy to the last game of the season. A Calgary win gives the Rangers the Pesidents Trophy and St. Louis a chance at 1st in the West.

[357]

There's some speculation that Bollig was chirping about Heatley's old vehicular manslaughter charge...

Reminds me of the spark that caused this fight:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m6WsGb71NgY

According to Theo, Chelios said "you'll be here for a couple more months then you will be back in rehab." while pretending to snort cocaine. Aparrently after that Theo lost it and slashed Chelios. Chelios elbowed him and then the fists were flying. I haven't heard Chelios's version. Supposedly they were friends before this incident but not afterwards.




That aside, Wings/Blues played a good game last night. It was a break-neck pace all the way through. Blues looked to break the will of the Wings with a shorty during a 5 min major. To make it worse they scored again 3 min later, around 9 minutes left in the 3rd, to go up 2-0. The Wings regrouped and came back strong. Two Datsyuk assists to Frazen goals alter it was tied with 3 min left. OT was almost all Wings. Shootout went Blues X X X and Wings X X 1 thanks to Bert's top-shelf backhander.

Very fun to watch. I'm thankful Howard seems back to mid season form.

[icehog3]

Enjoyed the game as well, Mike....well, at least the first 57 minutes. :r

[E.J.]

Avs killing me.... They were done before tonight IMO, but it sucks to show like this with percentage chance...

[icehog3]

The way it looks now (I think I am reading it right)...

If the Hawks beat the Wings in regulation Saturday, they will be 5th and play the Preds in Round 1.

If the Hawks win in overime or lose, they will be 6th and play the winner of the Pacific division, which is still up for grabs with L.A., San Jose and Phoenix all having a shot (at least until the end of the L.A. - Sharks game tonight).

Would it be un-fan-like of me to root for an OT win by the Hawks rather than a regulation one? :lr

[Ahbroody]

Cant see Sharks winning if this goes to a shootout. Niemi has been fighting the puck a lot.
One hell of a game tonight.
I cant believe Clowe did that and got away with it.

[icehog3]

Crazy L.A. - S.J. game! :wo

And they will do it again Saturday, maybe for the Pacific marbles, depending on Phoenix's games tomorrow and earlier Saturday.

Philly- Pittsburgh Satuday...a preview for a round one showdown that may be the most exciting one in the East.

Mike, could end up being Sharks - Hawks in round 1....that would be unbelievable!

[SteelCityBoy]

This Philly - Pittsburgh series is going to be one heckuva battle, usually is. As they say in Philly you may get through the Flyers in the playoffs, but you won't be the same team afterward. Could be brutal...but should be very fun to watch for all hockey fans! If I were Dan Bylsma, I may just call up the entire Wilkes Barre minor leauge team to play Saturday so that I can ensure no one gets hurt before it counts!

[Wanger]

Papers here are expecting a repeat of the fireworks. :bx

Wasn't as much as I expected, but both goalies were playing quite well, IMO. There were a few scrums, but nothing in the way that I expected. And the Wild pulled another one out! Looks like the wifey and I are going to the season finale with some friends tomorrow night.

We've been to quite a few games this year, and she even talked about getting season tix. :) Maybe we'll try to get partial season tix, or split with someone.

[yourchoice]

This Philly - Pittsburgh series is going to be one heckuva battle, usually is. As they say in Philly you may get through the Flyers in the playoffs, but you won't be the same team afterward. Could be brutal...but should be very fun to watch for all hockey fans! If I were Dan Bylsma, I may just call up the entire Wilkes Barre minor leauge team to play Saturday so that I can ensure no one gets hurt before it counts!

I agree Ken, should be a great series! Funny though, I have a different assessment of the two teams (shocker! :r). The Flyers have historically been the tough, "brutal" team to face, but generally they are less so this year, and much more skilled (and young...man are they young). If anything, I see the Pens as the more "brutal" team of the two. Sure, Hartnell still plays an aggressive/aggravating role, but he has been such a contributor offensively this year, that aspect of his game is much less prevalent. Couturier looked great against the Malkin line, but he's far from aggravating.

And, FWIW, the Pens were the aggressors and instigators on Sunday. Even the push by Schenn on Crosby was in retaliation to a couple of slashes Crosby got away with (including one that should have clearly been a penalty being he broke his stick in two). And I have no problem with it! That's hockey. :D

But Ken, the avatar...oh, the avatar. May have to switch mine to:

http://profile.ak.fbcdn.net/hprofile-ak-snc4/23272_132047506806127_2453_n.jpg

or

http://static.fjcdn.com/pictures/Sidney_9d6e98_339764.jpg

:hy

[Gophernut]

But Ken, the avatar...oh, the avatar. May have to switch mine to:

http://profile.ak.fbcdn.net/hprofile-ak-snc4/23272_132047506806127_2453_n.jpg



http://static.fjcdn.com/pictures/Sidney_9d6e98_339764.jpg



:r:r:r

[Eleven]

This Philly - Pittsburgh series is going to be one heckuva battle, usually is. As they say in Philly you may get through the Flyers in the playoffs, but you won't be the same team afterward. Could be brutal...but should be very fun to watch for all hockey fans!

You never know what will happen in the playoffs. Steve Sullivan may pull a Teamu and catch fire. My money is still on the Pens to come out of the first round.


If I were Dan Bylsma, I may just call up the entire Wilkes Barre minor leauge team to play Saturday so that I can ensure no one gets hurt before it counts!

I certainly hope not! We're going to that game. Have you seen what re-sale tickets are going for? They better not roll out the scrubs for "Shirts off our Backs day".

[yourchoice]

Anybody catch John Tortorella's postgame interview after the Penguins game (5 minute major on Orpik for knee on knee)? Looked like he stuck is knee out to me...

Link to Penalty. (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Uf8hutvso_g&feature=player_embedded)

Link to Postgame Interview. (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SU7ImcOYqOk&feature=player_embedded)

Glad it was another team's coach saying it. :D

[Bruins Fan]

Yeah I did,you got to love Tortorella he tells it like it is.
The B's lost thanks to Latangs fake head whip the ref bought it gave the Pens a two man advantage and that was all she wrote.
Mike Millbury had to apologize to Crosby for calling him a punk,he must have been told to by the network?
It's going to be Pen's Flyers in the playoffs.
I hope Philly beats the bag off the Pens

[Ahbroody]

Crazy L.A. - S.J. game! :wo

And they will do it again Saturday, maybe for the Pacific marbles, depending on Phoenix's games tomorrow and earlier Saturday.

Philly- Pittsburgh Satuday...a preview for a round one showdown that may be the most exciting one in the East.

Mike, could end up being Sharks - Hawks in round 1....that would be unbelievable!

Yeah if Sharks win again against Kings and Yotes dont get it done tonight Sharks would take third. Interesting to see if the Sharks can solve Quick two games in a row. I think the Sharks have the best chance against the Hawks vs playing the Blues or Canucks. Either way this team needs to play out of its mind to get out of yhe 1st round.

Clowe is a beast and Havlat has dirty mitts. Love watching Havlat with the puck.

[icehog3]

Love watching Havlat with the puck.

I did when he was on the Hawks.....

...for about 30 games a season. ;)

[Ahbroody]

Atleast hes consistent. :r

[icehog3]

Mike! WTF??? :lr

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=daaU4QCM5MY

[Ahbroody]

Cant see Sharks winning if this goes to a shootout. Niemi has been fighting the puck a lot.
One hell of a game tonight.
I cant believe Clowe did that and got away with it.

Mike! WTF??? :lr

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=daaU4QCM5MY

Yup I mentioned it last night.
I still cant believe it didmt get called.

Great time for the blues to have a bad night.
Now Sharks need to beat LA and hope Minn plays spoiler. Have to wonder if they want to help the Sharks.

[icehog3]

Have to wonder if they want to help the Sharks.

Have to wonder if the Sharks want to play the Blackhawks. :noon ;s :r

[Ahbroody]

Have to wonder if the Sharks want to play the Blackhawks. :noon ;s :r

I think they would prefer the Hawks to the Canucks or Blues. none will be ideal.
Out of the three your goalie is the worse ;s

[icehog3]

I think they would prefer the Hawks to the Canucks or Blues. none will be ideal.
Out of the three your goalie is the worst ;s

Absolutely. But he may be better than Niemi. :r

[icehog3]

If Phoenix beats Minnesota, it'a a moot point anyway.

[icehog3]

2-0 Yotes. :td

[Ahbroody]

Its alright this way I can still cheer for both teams and when the sharks go out against the Canucks im guessing I will just cheer for the Hawks.

Against the Wings of course. Rumor has it Stuart is looking to come home to San Jose to be with the wife and kids. Definetly wants to come to the west. Not going to be good if the Wings see stuart and the old man leave the blue line. Well it will be good for me. :r

[icehog3]

Don't sell the Sharks short, beat those Canuckleheads!! :tu

[taltos]

You have a Bruins fan here cheering for the Sharks.:tu

[icehog3]

You have a Bruins fan here cheering for the Sharks.:tu

http://i196.photobucket.com/albums/aa73/icehog3/canuckluo-1.jpg

[mithrilG60]

Rangers lost to the Caps so the Canucks have their fate in their hands for the second game in a row. Anything other than a regulation loss to the Oilers tonight clinches the Presidents Trophy. If I read the sheet correctly we've already clinched the conference as a Blues win combined with a Canucks loss ties the teams at 109 and the Canucks hold the tie breaker on wins.

[mithrilG60]

http://i196.photobucket.com/albums/aa73/icehog3/canuckluo-1.jpg

:r so true!!!!

[Ahbroody]

Wild just folding. Damn them!

[icehog3]

Looks like Hawks - Yotes.

Can Clutterbuck please run Mike Smith for us? :lr

[icehog3]

Blackhawks re-signed Ray Emery for next season.

[Ahbroody]

friggin Sharks. No way they escape the first round.

[44stampede]

What a finish! End games still meaningful.

May the curse of the pres trophy be on the damn Canucks

[Ahbroody]

:emo2004:O:O:noon

didn't see that happening.

[E.J.]

friggin Sharks. No way they escape the first round.

At least they're in....:(

[SteelCityBoy]

I agree Ken, should be a great series! Funny though, I have a different assessment of the two teams (shocker!). The Flyers have historically been the tough, "brutal" team to face, but generally they are less so this year, and much more skilled (and young...man are they young). If anything, I see the Pens as the more "brutal" team of the two. Sure, Hartnell still plays an aggressive/aggravating role, but he has been such a contributor offensively this year, that aspect of his game is much less prevalent. Couturier looked great against the Malkin line, but he's far from aggravating.

And, FWIW, the Pens were the aggressors and instigators on Sunday. Even the push by Schenn on Crosby was in retaliation to a couple of slashes Crosby got away with (including one that should have clearly been a penalty being he broke his stick in two). And I have no problem with it! That's hockey.

But Ken, the avatar...oh, the avatar.

Oh Joel...

Had a feeling I would be hearing from you once you saw my avy...;)

I have been reading lately how the Pens are a dirty team. I haven't been able to catch every game this year, but I haven't seen much of that. I guess the Flyers just bring out the worst in them!

I was going to go with the avy below, but then I would just be putting myself in the tasteless class with most Philly fans...;)

http://i1133.photobucket.com/albums/m595/khannaman/peeonflyers.jpg


GO PENS!!!

I feel a friendly wager coming on....PM incoming! :tu

[Eleven]

GO PENS!!!




I was at the game yesterday, with GREAT seats. I don't know what it looked like on TV, but in person the Pens looked good against the Flyers. I know the playoffs are a whole different world but I like the Pens chances.

http://img840.imageshack.us/img840/929/img20120407161020.jpg

[icehog3]

I thiink the Pens-Flyers will come down to goaltending, and my money is on Fleury based on his experience. The Flyers will sorely miss Grossman on the blue-line as well.

[Wanger]

Wild just folding. Damn them!

We were at the game, and they looked pretty lifeless, for the most part. Just didn't seem to get anything going at all. At least I got to see the Wild debut of:
http://a.espncdn.com/combiner/i?img=media%2Fgettyphoto%2F2012%5C04%5C07%5C142561 463.jpg&w=715&h=477

http://image.cdnllnwnl.xosnetwork.com/pics32/640/ZO/ZOOBCSLUMYNZHHP.20101129192844.jpg

I don't have to worry about the playoffs, but the future here is looking pretty bright. The paper here today even talked about how they've essentially stocked 4 years worth of prospects into the last 2, and a few of them have fairly high ceilings, it seems.

[chaase321]

Oh Joel...

Had a feeling I would be hearing from you once you saw my avy..

I have been reading lately how the Pens are a dirty team. I haven't been able to catch every game this year, but I haven't seen much of that. I guess the Flyers just bring out the worst in them!

I was going to go with the avy below, but then I would just be putting myself in the tasteless class with most Philly fans...;)

http://i1133.photobucket.com/albums/m595/khannaman/peeonflyers.jpg


GO PENS!!!

I feel a friendly wager coming on....PM incoming! :tu

Ken, I couldn't agree more...GO PENS!!! :sl the XXXX out of those flyers!

[SteelCityBoy]

I thiink the Pens-Flyers will come down to goaltending, and my money is on Fleury based on his experience. The Flyers will sorely miss Grossman on the blue-line as well.

When Fleury is on he is money. Problem as of late from what I watched he has been allowing soft goals. I think Johnson played in the season finale this past Saturday. I certainly hope he steps up his game because when he is on and the offense is clicking the Pens are a hard team to contend with.

Should be a great series!

[icehog3]

When Fleury is on he is money. Problem as of late from what I watched he has been allowing soft goals. I think Johnson played in the season finale this past Saturday. I certainly hope he steps up his game because when he is on and the offense is clicking the Pens are a hard team to contend with.

Should be a great series!

Johnson came in in a planned relief stint midway through the game to give Fleury a rest and get some ice time for Brent. He promptly gave up the tying goal, as Fleury left with a 2-1 lead.

[357]

Rumor has it Stuart is looking to come home to San Jose to be with the wife and kids. Definetly wants to come to the west. Not going to be good if the Wings see stuart and the old man leave the blue line. Well it will be good for me. :r

I've heard the same thing. To be honest the Wings have some good young D-men coming up. Quincy was a good pickup but if Stewy leaves they'll need another top 4 D-man to replace him. If Lidstrom retires they'll need two. IMO Lidstrom will be back for one more year unless the Wings hoist the cup this year. Hopefully the Stuart situation will be resolved so we only need to replace on top 4 D-man at a time.

Anybody catch John Tortorella's postgame interview after the Penguins game (5 minute major on Orpik for knee on knee)? Looked like he stuck is knee out to me...

Link to Penalty. (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Uf8hutvso_g&feature=player_embedded)

Link to Postgame Interview. (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SU7ImcOYqOk&feature=player_embedded)

Glad it was another team's coach saying it. :D

I agree, looked intentional on replay. Live, not so much, but in the replay you can see him change the angle of his leg.

http://i196.photobucket.com/albums/aa73/icehog3/canuckluo-1.jpg

:r:r

[44stampede]

Holy horse shoe up the a$% for Edmonton. 3 in a row!

[icehog3]

Holy horse shoe up the a$% for Edmonton. 3 in a row!

If they can get some veteran D-man help and a good goalie, they should be in the mix soon.

[Ahbroody]

Holy horse shoe up the a$% for Edmonton. 3 in a row!

Yeah wow rolls eyes. Guess they will just keep getting number one picks. There should be a limit it seems.


Geeked for the start tonight. I think the two nasty first round series are going to be pens philly and kings canucks. Pens Philly is getting the pub for the potential, but I think Kings Canucks could be much worse.

Kings a dirty team and the canucks have been known to bite, pull hair, (cant pass the oportunity to mention) dive, and love to do $hit after the whistle. I think this series could get very nasty. The Kings have no problem boarding star players. In fact I will be shocked if they dont board a canuck in this series given their recent play. Hopefully the sisters:tf have learned dont turn into the boards when they see someone coming like in the past. I think the Canucks take the series but not without some injuries.

A lot of people saying Hawks over Yotes and I think they have the skill advantage if everyone shows up. Problem is solving Smith.

Preds I think can take the wings. I give them the goalie andvantage. Both teams are skillbut the preds speed I say wins.

[GreekGodX]

Looking at this first round I have no ability to pick teams without prejudice. So I'm making no picks other than the Wings in 6 and Jimmy Howard stands on his head :)

Oh and the Caps in 7 because that is my playoff team in that fantasy hockey playoff pool. Holtby for Conn Smythe trophy (for as long as the Wings win the cup though :))

[mithrilG60]

Yeah wow rolls eyes. Guess they will just keep getting number one picks. There should be a limit it seems.

Pretty sure there is, I seem to recall reading no team can select 1st in 4 consecutive drafts but I can't find that reference so I might be imagining it.


I think the two nasty first round series are going to be pens philly and kings canucks. Pens Philly is getting the pub for the potential, but I think Kings Canucks could be much worse.

I don't really see Vancouver-LA becoming a dirty series with lots of injuries. I think both teams are smart enough to realize that either of their potential opponents in the 2nd round are going to be very tough teams to face and I think you'll see that prevent a lot of stupidity for fear of injury hurting you in the future. I'm expecting to see a pretty boring and very defensive series.

[icehog3]

Funny, everyone on NHL on XM is picking the Yotes. I don't see it.

Everyone there (14 of 16) is picking Nashville over Detroit. I think the Wings will be in it, and I pick them to win it.

Sharks-Blues could be the big upset. Elliott is day-to-day, I am not sold on Halak, and the Sharks have been to the dance before.

I pick the Canucks to beat Quick and LA, but would love to be wrong.

[Ahbroody]

Funny, everyone on NHL on XM is picking the Yotes. I don't see it.

Everyone there (14 of 16) is picking Nashville over Detroit. I think the Wings will be in it, and I pick them to win it.

Sharks-Blues could be the big upset. Elliott is day-to-day, I am not sold on Halak, and the Sharks have been to the dance before.

I pick the Canucks to beat Quick and LA, but would love to be wrong.

I can see why a lot would pick the Yotes Tom. The goalie is red red hot. They have balanced scoring. As I said earlier they have the goalie advantage. If he steals a game or two then thats likely the series. I want the Hawks though so I cant pick against them.

As for Wings Preds they are really deep with recent moves and they have the goalie advantage. I think Peca steals a couple games and the series.

The Sharks Blues is tough if they can split the first two the blues youth and inexperience I think creeps in and sticks get gripped. As a whole though I just dont see the Sharks getting it done. While I know they stepped up at the end of the season when they had two, I just have seen them go ice cold to often this year.

Geoff I really think you are hoping it doesnt get nasty, but I am hoping it does ;) and can see it. You have to look at both teams recent history. I cant see it not happening looking at last years playoffs and this season.

[Adriftpanda]

Berry Effing Melrose just predicted my Canucks will get beat by LA, suck it BM!

[Gophernut]

No quit in the Flyers tonight. Gotta love playoff hockey!

[dubnick]

No quit in the Flyers tonight. Gotta love playoff hockey!

Truer words have never been spoken! GO FLYERS!

[yourchoice]

Wow... I am spent and it's only game 1.:salute:

[icehog3]

Great Pens-Flyers game, a lot of character shown by Philly.

Two lucky goals by the Preds to beat the Wings 3-2, I am still not convinced.

[mithrilG60]

Pathetic showing by the Canucks as a team, but at least Luongo was brilliant. Kings definitely deserved that win, played like they wanted it much more. Hopefully the league has a chat with the ref's about making calls when they're out of position, 2 very blatant errors tonite between the Briere offside and Kesler hand pass.

[icehog3]

That Briere offsides was brutal.

The Dustins (Penner and Brown) are my heroes of the day. :)

[Ahbroody]

Bitz gets a game I think. Replay shows targeted head with elbow.
Was a chippy game. I expect more in game two.

That offsides call was bad in the philly game.

I agree Preds goals two were odd, but the Preds speed created the first odd goal. Won the race and got the lucky redirect. Did not like Weber slamming Zs head into the glass at end of game. Wonder if anything will come out of that.

[mithrilG60]

That Briere offsides was brutal.

Ya, there was no question about that call. The Kesler hand pass was kind of understandable but having two badly missed calls on the first night of the playoffs should be enough for the league to have a quiet word with all the officials.

The Dustins (Penner and Brown) are my heroes of the day. :)

Carter's soccer redirection to Penner was unreal.

Bitz should get a game for that hit, but he may get away with time served given that the LA player was so low Bitz would have had to lift his elbow to avoid him.

[yourchoice]

That Briere offsides was brutal.



That was a bad call, no doubt.

Another non-call in that game that I didn't hear a very good explanation of was why the icing was waved off that ultimately led to the Pens third goal. My market had our local announcers (NBC Sports was blacked out). Did the NBC guys explain what happened with that?

[357]

Berry Effing Melrose just predicted my Canucks will get beat by LA, suck it BM!

He's pridicted the Wings would lose all 4 cup finals they've won recently: 97, 98, 2002, 2008. Wings won those series': 4-0, 4-0, 4-1, and 4-2 respectively. He's a DB. No offense Tom.

[357]

Great Pens-Flyers game, a lot of character shown by Philly.

Two lucky goals by the Preds to beat the Wings 3-2, I am still not convinced.

I agree. Wings outplayed the Preds in the 2nd and 3rd, big time.


I agree Preds goals two were odd, but the Preds speed created the first odd goal. Won the race and got the lucky redirect. Did not like Weber slamming Zs head into the glass at end of game. Wonder if anything will come out of that.

I have a feeling Weber gets 1 game suspension for that move. Total bush league. If it was regular season it would be 5 games. The game was over. This was not a check where his target moved or put his head down last minute. First he punched him in the back of the head, then grabs his head and slams his face into the boards. It doesn't get more blatant than that.

If the Wings play the same way tomorrow as they did in the last 2 periods of that game, they'll win game 2 for sure.

[mithrilG60]

I have a feeling Weber gets 1 game suspension for that move. Total bush league. If it was regular season it would be 5 games. The game was over. This was not a check where his target moved or put his head down last minute. First he punched him in the back of the head, then grabs his head and slams his face into the boards. It doesn't get more blatant than that.


Nope, just $2500 fine and a stern "We'll take this into account if you're a naughty boy again in these playoffs". Yet Bitz has a hearing with Shannahan over his hit on Clifford which likely means at least a game. I fail to see how the NHL can possibly say the Bitz hit is suspendable if the Weber WWE head-to-the-turnbuckle move isn't. BOTH actions should result in suspensions. More inconsistency from the league, how the hell are they supposed to change any behaviour when they constantly send the players mixed messages on what is and what isn't acceptable behaviour?

[Ahbroody]

Bitz should get a game for that hit, but he may get away with time served given that the LA player was so low Bitz would have had to lift his elbow to avoid him.
If u look at it honestly this argument is laughable. Clifford was already engaged with another player battling for puck. Bitz raised his elbow and skated towards a player facing the boards who was already engaged with another player and deliberatly delivered an elbow shot to the face. This is exactly the hit the league wants out of the game. Watch the hit honestly. He lifts and cocks the elbow then skates at clifford. He made zero effort to play the puck. ZERO. His whole intent was deliver the hit.


I have a feeling Weber gets 1 game suspension for that move. Total bush league. If it was regular season it would be 5 games. The game was over. This was not a check where his target moved or put his head down last minute. First he punched him in the back of the head, then grabs his head and slams his face into the boards. It doesn't get more blatant than that.

I agree it was not good. 5 games. :r 5 games in the regular season? Mike the punch to the back of the head that happened first happens in almost every game and after the whistle constantly. Its honestly a non factor. The hulk smash was bad but no apparent injury.

Nope, just $2500 fine and a stern "We'll take this into account if you're a naughty boy again in these playoffs". Yet Bitz has a hearing with Shannahan over his hit on Clifford which likely means at least a game. I fail to see how the NHL can possibly say the Bitz hit is suspendable if the Weber WWE head-to-the-turnbuckle move isn't. BOTH actions should result in suspensions. More inconsistency from the league, how the hell are they supposed to change any behaviour when they constantly send the players mixed messages on what is and what isn't acceptable behaviour?
Two players who are involved in a battle on the boards and one goes to far and goes WWE is not the same as a player targeting a players head who he is not engaged with. Z and Weber were engaged in a battle on the boards together. Again Bitz came a fair distance with his elbow raised and cocked and intentionally hits Cliffords face with his elbow. Who he was not engaged with. Weber got heated and went to far. In the moment. Vs calculated intent to deliver a blow to the head.

[357]

Nope, just $2500 fine and a stern "We'll take this into account if you're a naughty boy again in these playoffs". Yet Bitz has a hearing with Shannahan over his hit on Clifford which likely means at least a game. I fail to see how the NHL can possibly say the Bitz hit is suspendable if the Weber WWE head-to-the-turnbuckle move isn't. BOTH actions should result in suspensions. More inconsistency from the league, how the hell are they supposed to change any behaviour when they constantly send the players mixed messages on what is and what isn't acceptable behaviour?

What's rediculous to me is that they factor the net result into the punishment. Apparently intent is not important as net result. So if I take my skate off and try to slit someone's throat but fail, I'll just get a fine. However, if I'm biting my fingernail and it flies off, hits someone in the eye resulting in vision loss I'll be banned from the league for life. Granted I know these are extreme and over-the-top examples, but it seems to be what would happen if you follow the league's logic (or lack thereof).

Wouldn't they be better off severly punishing all players who intend to injur rather than just those who succeed?

[357]

I agree it was not good. 5 games. :r 5 games in the regular season? Mike the punch to the back of the head that happened first happens in almost every game and after the whistle constantly. Its honestly a non factor. The hulk smash was bad but no apparent injury.


Two players who are involved in a battle on the boards and one goes to far and goes WWE is not the same as a player targeting a players head who he is not engaged with. Z and Weber were engaged in a battle on the boards together.

I disagree. Z was on the ice trying to stand up. The play was over, the puck was far away, and the GAME WAS OVER. Watch the video:

http://www.usatoday.com/sports/hockey/nhl/story/2012-04-12/henrik-zetterberg-fine-shea-weber-hit/54204916/1

The puck is 30 ft away and the clock reads 00.0. when Weber smashes his face into the boards. How is this WWE move in any way related to a "hockey move/play"? There was no battle for a puck that was 30 ft away. That play was long over. Going to far is crosschecking while trying to knock a guy off the puck, not face-smashing him from behind when the puck's long gone. You can't associate that crap with any hockey play.

[icehog3]

He's pridicted the Wings would lose all 4 cup finals they've won recently: 97, 98, 2002, 2008. Wings won those series': 4-0, 4-0, 4-1, and 4-2 respectively. He's a DB. No offense Tom.

He's no Admiral..... :D

[icehog3]

Nope, just $2500 fine and a stern "We'll take this into account if you're a naughty boy again in these playoffs". Yet Bitz has a hearing with Shannahan over his hit on Clifford which likely means at least a game. I fail to see how the NHL can possibly say the Bitz hit is suspendable if the Weber WWE head-to-the-turnbuckle move isn't. BOTH actions should result in suspensions. More inconsistency from the league, how the hell are they supposed to change any behaviour when they constantly send the players mixed messages on what is and what isn't acceptable behaviour?

Agreed....Weber should get a game if the NHL really wants to take "hits" to the head out of the game.

$2500 to Weber at 7MIL per season if comparable to a guy making $50,000 a year getting a $15 fine. Freaking joke.

[Ahbroody]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uV4EwedHC9I&feature=youtube_gdata_player
Mike when the punch to the back of the head is delivered the puck is in Zs feet. The hulk smash occurs maybe 2-3 seconds after that and is a continuation. Weber has no idea the puck has left he is in the moment and has gone over the edge. Come on man. Im not saying its not dirty. It is dirty. I am saying its playoff hockey and I can see why the league sees it as a Weber just going over the edge. As opposed to Bitz which was calculated. I could see a game, but no injury and playoffs equals fine. The puck traveled that 30 feet in 1 second mike. 1 second. Okay maybe 2 seconds tops. About the length of time it took Weber to give some Nashville fans a very close look at Zs lips.

[357]

Quincy got a 1 game suspension for leaving his feet and hitting Kopecky in the head (as he should BTW):
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zxXKgXGorpU

Weber gets $2500 fine for "turnbuckling" Zetterberg:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XiMgjO0EgtE

I see Quincy trying to lay a hit on a guy with the puck. He want too far and hit too high. Not sure if Kopecky finished that game. Kopecky played the following game. Result = Quincy suspension.

Weber, trying to hurt a star player for the Wings who did not provoke him or the Preds, made no play to remove the player from the puck. Result = slap on the wrist fine.

My issue is the inconsistency. One infraction is clearly worse than the other both by intent and by resulting injury; yet the worse offense gets the lighter penalty. I know it's the playoffs but that shouldn't mean no suspensions. IMO they are encouraging this kind of garbage by not giving at least a 1 game suspension.

[mithrilG60]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uV4EwedHC9I&feature=youtube_gdata_player
Mike when the punch to the back of the head is delivered the puck is in Zs feet. The hulk smash occurs maybe 2-3 seconds after that and is a continuation. Weber has no idea the puck has left he is in the moment and has gone over the edge. Come on man. Im not saying its not dirty. It is dirty. I am saying its playoff hockey and I can see why the league sees it as a Weber just going over the edge. As opposed to Bitz which was calculated. I could see a game, but no injury and playoffs equals fine. The puck traveled that 30 feet in 1 second mike. 1 second. Okay maybe 2 seconds tops. About the length of time it took Weber to give some Nashville fans a very close look at Zs lips.

What you're not mentioning is this all occurred after the game had ended. In as much as Bitz's hit ended up being illegal, and he should be suspended for it, he was also just trying to clean out an opposing player to free a puck being fought for on the boards. That play happens dozens of times each game and is completely valid part of hockey. Bitz's hit was illegal only because Clifford was in a vulernable position at the time of impact and Bitz should have therefore not completed, other than that it was an normal hockey play.

On the other hand there is absolutely no way anyone can claim Weber's head smash on Z to be a "hockey play" with anything resembling a straight face. That is why I say that if the NHL is setting the bar such that an incident like Weber's is not suspendable there is no way an incident like Btiz's should be. To me they are both deserving of suspension, and the fact that Weber wasn't is just another example in a long line of ball drops on the league's behalf.

[icehog3]

I think the Wings should pool together $20,000, and that Kronwall should smash Weber, Suter, Radulov, Erat, Rinne, Hornqvist, Bourque and Kostitsyn's faces all into the glass tomorrow.

[Ahbroody]

Geoff and Mike the league is trying to stop premeditated hits to the head. Where a player sees it and decides hes vulnerable I am going to wreck him. He takes the time goes out of his way and intends to injure. Weber hit very dirty infact arguably more dangerous. Difference is atleast I think is Weber is battling and snaps. Bitz sees a vulnerable player and decides to try to injure. He gets the elbow up takes multiple strides lines up the head and drives the elbow into the face and into the glass.

[Ahbroody]

I think the Wings should pool together $20,000, and that Kronwall should smash Weber, Suter, Radulov, Erat, Rinne, Hornqvist, Bourque and Kostitsyn's faces all into the glass tomorrow.

I bet theres a pool and Everyone wants to see weber kronwalled. Bertuzzi is the scariest person in the league. The league really has created a powder keg here thinking about it.

[GreekGodX]

An intentional face smash into the glass like that and no suspension? Unbelievable. It was not even a hockey play. There is little room for argument for Weber that he did not intend to injure Z on that play. There is no other reason for it. The fine is laughable and will not prevent that from happening again. What does Z need to do? Pretend to be injured next time and get taken out on a stretcher to draw more attention to it? I'm appalled by the NHL's decision.

[mithrilG60]

Geoff and Mike the league is trying to stop premeditated hits to the head. Where a player sees it and decides hes vulnerable I am going to wreck him. He takes the time goes out of his way and intends to injure. Weber hit very dirty infact arguably more dangerous. Difference is atleast I think is Weber is battling and snaps. Bitz sees a vulnerable player and decides to try to injure. He gets the elbow up takes multiple strides lines up the head and drives the elbow into the face and into the glass.

I think you're reading waaaaaaay more intent into the Bitz hit than was ever there. Bitz was braced for a normal shoulder to body impact with a player playing the puck, he was not leading with his elbow. The only reason Bitz's elbow caught Clifford's head was because Clifford was low. Bitz should have absolutely recognized that Clifford was in a vulnerable position and pulled out of the check, the fact that he didn't is why that play was definitely worthy 5 and the game + a suspension. But intent to injure? On a play that in every other sense was a completely normal hockey play that happens dozens of time in every game? And especially when compared to Weber slamming Z's face into the glass after their game had ended? Not a chance.

[dubnick]

FLYERS!!! That's all I got!

But in all seriousness, that game was the ultimate roller coaster. Looking forward to the rest of the series.

[Bigwaved]

Good start :tu

[icehog3]

Hawks tie it up with 14.22 seconds left in the 3rd! :wo Seabrook!! :D

Andrew Shaw with the game winner? ;)

[357]

Geoff and Mike the league is trying to stop premeditated hits to the head. Where a player sees it and decides hes vulnerable I am going to wreck him. He takes the time goes out of his way and intends to injure. Weber hit very dirty infact arguably more dangerous. Difference is atleast I think is Weber is battling and snaps. Bitz sees a vulnerable player and decides to try to injure. He gets the elbow up takes multiple strides lines up the head and drives the elbow into the face and into the glass.

So you're asseting that Weber didn't think that the guy kneeling on the ice in front of him, that he just punched in the back of the head, was in a vulnerable position?

That's the worst argument I've ever heard.

What's worse is yesterday during practice Predator players were reinacting the entire thing, mocking Zetterberg, and IMO the NHL's lame reaction.

http://www.hockeyworldblog.com/2012/04/13/andrei-kostitsyn-and-shea-weber-mock-zetterberg-head-smash/

Here's the photo of Andrei Kostitsyn and Shea Weber performing the mock Zetterberg Head Smash:
http://www.hockeyworldblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/andrei-kostitsyn-shea-weber.jpg

[Ahbroody]

Mike as usual discussing things with you is the moving ever changing discussion. As usual I am walking away after this post as you will just change the focus again.

First you made it sound like the puck was long gone ignoring it was max 2 whole seconds after the puck was in his feet and a continuation of their scrum. After that was exposed as crap by the video u said consistency. Which I didnt disagree with. Again this is worse then the bitz hit, but I already ventured a guess as to y the league didnt suspend here.

Now Z is kneeling on the ice infront of him? I encourage anyone reading this thread to watch the video link and see why debating u is useless. He is not "kneeling on the ice" when Weber goes Hulk smash. You have completely fabricated those facts. His knees are bent slightly but far from the ice. If his knees were on the ice he would need to be taller then Chara to have his face smashed into the glass that high up. Have fun and go stretch the truth about something else.
And to end the lie that is being repeated he did it after the game was over... Here you two go
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XiMgjO0EgtE&feature=youtube_gdata_player
There is video proof the buzzer had not yet sounded. So stop lying and saying the game was over. The penalty was issued at 20:00 because that was the stopage of play. I would expect people to understand that.

Was it a dirty hit? Yup. Was it suspendable? Yup. I just said why i didnt think they would and I think I was accurate in what they decided and Y.

Dont know what you want me to say about them mocking. I am not a Preds fan.

[Eleven]

Am I the only one who doesn't think the Hulk Smash was *that* bad?

[icehog3]

Am I the only one who doesn't think the Hulk Smash was *that* bad?

It was bush league, I expect more from Weber. Say what they will about fighting and hockey, that was pure WWE.

I also expect to see Kronwall, Berschmoozi and Abdelkader to be throwing it around tonight.

[Eleven]

Bush league is one thing, but it wasn't criminal. People are going nuts over it, and the irony is the team with someone who WAS criminally investigated and charged are the ones whining the most.

I've seen more blatant bush league actions in the first 2 periods of the Pens/Flyers game, but no one is whining, it's playoff hockey.

[yourchoice]

Another very entertaining Flyers/Pens game. Couturier and Giroux each with a hat trick, with the other two Flyer goals coming from former Penguins.

Couturier was especially impressive on both ends of the ice. Malkin was looking frustrated, IMHO.

LET'S GO FLYERS!!!!!

[E.J.]

Though I hitched my wagon to the Pens, this series has been VERY entertaining...

HOLD ON LA!!!!

[Ahbroody]

Though I hitched my wagon to the Pens, this series has been VERY entertaining...

HOLD ON LA!!!!

:noon:noon:noon love the playoffs

Geoff told you it was going to get nasty. I expect it to get worse.

[icehog3]

Never said the Weber incident was criminal, Scott.

I am not a Berschmoozi fan, but in Wings' fans defense, he wasn't on the Wings when the incident happened...he was on the dirtiest team in the league (then and now).

Dustin Brown is my Hero of the Day. :)

[Eleven]

LA is impressing me! I hope they sweep the Canucks, so I don't have to see that goofy little kid with the headphones, or the greenmen back in Vancouver until next year.

And the Pens...wtf? Philly was impressive, but the Pens were brutal. This doth not bode well for the Penguins of Pittsburgh.

[taltos]

Is Vancouver burning yet? That President's Cup is a kiss of death more often than not.

[mithrilG60]

that goofy little kid with the headphones

Ummm, you do realize those aren't headphones but are rather ear protectors to reduce the sound level that kid's exposed to right? He and his father attend more games each season than 99% of this board will attend in their lifetime. Noise protection for developing ears is a very responsible decision IMHO.

[Bruins Fan]

Game two today against the Caps, in a dreaded afternoon game.
It will be interesting to see if Ovechkin will come out banging again?
Ovi came out on the short end on a lot of them hits,your not going to out Bruin the Bruins :D
As log as he is checking he's not shooting :noon

[Eleven]

Ummm, you do realize those aren't headphones but are rather ear protectors to reduce the sound level that kid's exposed to right? He and his father attend more games each season than 99% of this board will attend in their lifetime. Noise protection for developing ears is a very responsible decision IMHO.

Actually the responsible decision would be to either buy the kid his/her own seat, or leave the kid at home if they can't take the noise level at a hockey game.

I was being facetious, mainly about how annoying the canucks fans are, and you popped in, right on cue :)

[icehog3]

Braden Holtby looking OK so far. :rolleyes:

Save Percentage: .973

Goals Against Average: 0.833

Home Ice Advantage: Capitals

[Ahbroody]

How can you not like the Holtby story right now.
Should have won game 1. Wins game 2. Friggin love the playoffs.

[icehog3]

How can you not like the Holtby story right now.
Should have won game 1. Wins game 2. Friggin love the playoffs.

Yes! Now for Craig Anderson to shut down the Blueshirts! :)

[Eleven]

Who the hell is Holtby? Has he been around all year? (Not a caps fan, so this guy is news to me!)

[Bruins Fan]

Any warm body would look good against the B's last two games.
Absolute no pressure on goal, challenge this kid quit taking shots from the point.
A lot of players are not competing,they got to get their head out of their asses.

[GreekGodX]

Who the hell is Holtby? Has he been around all year? (Not a caps fan, so this guy is news to me!)

Braden Holtby looking OK so far. :rolleyes:

Save Percentage: .973

Goals Against Average: 0.833

Home Ice Advantage: Capitals

Holtby for Conn Smythe trophy (for as long as the Wings win the cup though :))

Too soon yet, but he's making a strong argument for me in the 1st round :)

He has stepped in due to injuries to Vokoun and I forget their other goalie's name. Nevurith? or there was another guy from last season that started a lot too but one of them is on another team now.

[icehog3]

Too soon yet, but he's making a strong argument for me in the 1st round :)

He has stepped in due to injuries to Vokoun and I forget their other goalie's name. Nevurith? or there was another guy from last season that started a lot too but one of them is on another team now.

Valarmov was their big goalie last year.

Holtby played in Hershey for the AHL team this season, and was an All-Star there.

[Ahbroody]

Any warm body would look good against the B's last two games.
Absolute no pressure on goal, challenge this kid quit taking shots from the point.
A lot of players are not competing,they got to get their head out of their asses.

Disagree. I thought Holtby has played great and made some great saves.

Pavs gets in a fight. Lol not his area of expertise.

[Bigwaved]

Yes! Now for Craig Anderson to shut down the Blueshirts! :)
not cool :sl

[icehog3]

not cool :sl

Sorry, Craig is a friend. ;s

Hawks down 2-1 after 1. Coyotes definitely have the better goalie.

[Eleven]

Lots of 5 minute majors so far in the playoffs. I don't think I like it.

[Bigwaved]

So am I. :slSorry, Craig is a friend. ;s

Hawks down 2-1 after 1. Coyotes definitely have the better goalie.

[Ahbroody]

:wo

[Ahbroody]

Atleast Hawks win tonight.

Sharks got out worked bad tonight. Was what I was expecting.

[icehog3]

Thursday with 14 seconds left, only to lose in OT.

Tonight, 5 seconds left, and a W.

http://i196.photobucket.com/albums/aa73/icehog3/CoyotesOT1.jpg

[icehog3]

Just scored a ticket for Tuesday's Game 3, Hawks V 'Yotes! :wo

[Bigwaved]

Karlsson should wear a dress for game 3. What a little *****.

Hagelin should be suspended for his elbow to Alfredsson's head. Since he was concussed earlier this year, it may be lights out for his season after that one.

Carkner is a dirtbag. Where is Joey Kocur when you need him? That little prick wouldn't have dared to play again in the series if he were still playing.

Kicking Dubinsky out as the third man in was a bs call. Although technically correct, it was not reflective of why the rule was created. They messed up on the intent of it there.

Ottawa gets the credit for playing well. Game three should be an escalation of the bad blood from the first two games of the series.

[icehog3]

Stupid sexy Predators.

[Ahbroody]

Stupid sexy Predators.

Thats why I picked them. Better goalie and picked up key pieces this year. Very deep team. Wings have the better stars but its on them to win. I think the preds have more depth of scoring, speed/ youth, and arguably the best goalie in the league.

[yourchoice]

I have been reading lately how the Pens are a dirty team. I haven't been able to catch every game this year, but I haven't seen much of that.

Watch the first period of today's game again, Ken, and let me know if you still feel this way. :rolleyes:

[icehog3]

Thats why I picked them. Better goalie and picked up key pieces this year. Very deep team. Wings have the better stars but its on them to win. I think the preds have more depth of scoring, speed/ youth, and arguably the best goalie in the league.

Rinne nay be the best. I still ain't counting out the Wings, Mike.

Watch the first period of today's game again, Ken, and let me know if you still feel this way. :rolleyes:

Flyers are right there with 'em IMHO, Joel. :)

[Eleven]

Flyers are right there with 'em IMHO, Joel. :)

Yup, the Pens were by far the Dumber of the 2 teams today though. Totally got trolled and fell into the Flyers plan.

Asham was bad, his high stick was way over the line, but Hartnell whining about hair pulling in the middle of a fight was lame. It was obvious that Adams was grabbing for his collar, not his fault Hartnell is a Caveman.

This series is over, and I hope the Pens from the TOP down learn a lesson here.

[icehog3]

Hartnell looks more like the Cowardly Lion.

"If IIIII......were kinnnnnnnng.....of the iceriiiiiiiiiink......."

[E.J.]

Man, I love this time of year....:)

[Ahbroody]

Hey wheres Geoff?
Oooo thats right the Canucks are playing bad in the playoffs. If they win though I am sure hill come in honking. Atleast this year theres no comments about how the Canucks are going to win it all.

As much as this hurts.
Go Kings Go!
Go Kings Go!

Just poking yeah Geoff

[44stampede]

Yup, the Pens were by far the Dumber of the 2 teams today though. Totally got trolled and fell into the Flyers plan.

Asham was bad, his high stick was way over the line, but Hartnell whining about hair pulling in the middle of a fight was lame. It was obvious that Adams was grabbing for his collar, not his fault Hartnell is a Caveman.

This series is over, and I hope the Pens from the TOP down learn a lesson here.
I think they need Iginla to put them over the top. We'll give you him for Staal and a second ;)

Seriuosly though, I had the Pens to win the East...don't know what the hell happened.

[44stampede]

Man I am a praying for a LA home win tonight!!

I am a Canadian but there is literally two teams I can't stand in Canada- Maple Leaves and the Canuckle heads.

Plus it's fun to piss off all my boys in BC :)

[icehog3]

Dustin Brown. Hero of the Day three times in 5 days. :)

[Eleven]

There's that goofy picture of Brown squeezing a water bottle the wrong way with a funny look on his face, I love that picture. But Man he was a beast last night. The difference between the Kings' captain and the Canucks captain is staggering.

I know the differences between leaders can be subtle, but Sedin *looks* like he is not a very good leader, and Brown took the opposite approach. In your face and scoring goals and absolutely destroying the only healthy Sedin left.

[yourchoice]

Flyers are right there with 'em IMHO, Joel. :)

Every team has a certain amount of cheap and dirty in them...the Flyers this year seem to have been less so than years past. I'm assuming the league's (Shanahan) disciplinary actions should shed light on who went overboard yesterday. ;)

What gets me is the Pens like to portray they aren't that type of team. Tortorella said he thinks they are, Laviolette hinted he thinks they are...and their actions say they are. Lemieux's statement last year makes the contradictions laughable.

And Crosby is a punk! :r Interesting article about him here...http://bleacherreport.com/articles/1146515-nhl-playoffs-2012-sidney-crosby-from-prodigy-to-punk

Best line, "What would your boss do?" :r

[Bigwaved]

Every team has a certain amount of cheap and dirty in them...the Flyers this year seem to have been less so than years past. I'm assuming the league's (Shanahan) disciplinary actions should shed light on who went overboard yesterday. ;)

What gets me is the Pens like to portray they aren't that type of team. Tortorella said he thinks they are, Laviolette hinted he thinks they are...and their actions say they are. Lemieux's statement last year makes the contradictions laughable.

And Crosby is a punk! :r Interesting article about him here...http://bleacherreport.com/articles/1146515-nhl-playoffs-2012-sidney-crosby-from-prodigy-to-punk

Best line, "What would your boss do?" :r
Don't count on any light being shed from Shanny unless it is the sunlight going in one ear and out the other. His "justice" is a crap shoot. Has been all year. Consistency is not his goal.

[Gophernut]

Don't count on any light being shed from Shanny unless it is the sunlight going in one ear and out the other. His "justice" is a crap shoot. Has been all year. Consistency is not his goal.

Hagelin gets 3 games for the hit on Alfredsson, which I think is a little much but I understand. Yet somehow Carkner gets only 1 for what he did to Boyle? I don't get it.
Consistency is certainly not his goal. But common sense doesn't seem to be either.
It will be interesting to see what comes out of yesterday's game 3 between the Pens and Flyers.

[icehog3]

Anxiously awaiting Shanahan's verdict on Andrew Shaw's collision with Mike Smith. If he suspends him, I call bullshit...but I won't be shocked. ;)

[Eleven]

Anxiously awaiting Shanahan's verdict on Andrew Shaw's collision with Mike Smith. If he suspends him, I call bullshit...but I won't be shocked. ;)

Don't think that should be a suspension.

Asham, yes.

Neal, no.

Adams, no.

And if your avatar is Sidney Crosby portrayed in makeup and lipstick, don't expect to be taken seriously when you give opinions about the Penguins.

[yourchoice]

Don't think that should be a suspension.

Asham, yes.

Neal, no.

Adams, no.

And if your avatar is Sidney Crosby portrayed in makeup and lipstick, don't expect to be taken seriously when you give opinions about the Penguins.

I agree with who you think will be suspended and who won't...but I think the league's decision on Neal and Adams will be intriguing. If Neal hadn't gone after both Couturier and Giroux I don't think there would even be a possibility. As for Adams, he received an instigation penalty in the last five minutes of the game, and if after review they deem the instigator call correct he will, by rule, be suspended...not that I necessarily agree with that.

And feel free to judge my posts by my avatar. :rolleyes: I guess that means it's hard to argue the merit of the posts. ;)

[357]

As much as this hurts.
Go Kings Go!
Go Kings Go!


Blue moon again? I agree with Mike. I hate the Canucks.

BTW, don't bury the Wings yet. Seems that the team who carries the play has been on the losing end. Strange series. I just wish the Wings could play 60 minutes with the same desparation they played 30-40 min with last game.

[Ahbroody]

Yup, the Pens were by far the Dumber of the 2 teams today though. Totally got trolled and fell into the Flyers plan.

This series is over, and I hope the Pens from the TOP down learn a lesson here.

I went back and watched the first period again. Sorry Scott the Pens didnt get trolled. Both teams were equally chippy. Sidney had the big troll move of the period. Pushing the glove away with his stick? The Pens got frustrated and went too far.

Blue moon again? I agree with Mike. I hate the Canucks.

BTW, don't bury the Wings yet. Seems that the team who carries the play has been on the losing end. Strange series. I just wish the Wings could play 60 minutes with the same desparation they played 30-40 min with last game.

Mike I just think the Preds depth/speed and goalie will win the day. Last game Datsyuk stole that puck and got a goal. Thats not going to happen often. Be honest great individual effort by a superstar, but flueky goal. The second goal was end of the game 6-4 empty net and pp goal. The Preds had one 5-4 pp but the other two goals were speed goals were the D got beat. Kleins goal the D got flat out beat. He skated right up the middle splitting both D. Kosti goal was speed also 3 on 1. The Preds scoring is coming from everywhere. I dont think the Wings carried the game.

As for Sharks this is tge make or break game. They got out skated, out played, and multiple players got a physical beat down by a Very good Blues team. Today we see if experience can win again. If they dont come out hitting and flying and go down early game is likely over. This game to me sets up the series winner

[yourchoice]

Adams, no.



NHL announced Adams is suspended for game 4 and Bylsma fined $10K. Asham and Neal to have hearings tomorrow.

[icehog3]

Checking NHLcom every 15 minutes trying to get the Shaw decision.

[Ahbroody]

Anxiously awaiting Shanahan's verdict on Andrew Shaw's collision with Mike Smith. If he suspends him, I call bullshit...but I won't be shocked. ;)
Disagree. Watch video. At 1min. To me that angle shows possible intent. Could have pinched the wall. Didnt. got the goalie. Good thing it wasnt luongo he could have been killed.

Just saying could see a game or two. Maybe.

Luls forgot to post video
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YVPuIvuP6O8&feature=youtube_gdata_player

[Eleven]

NHL announced Adams is suspended for game 4 and Bylsma fined $10K. Asham and Neal to have hearings tomorrow.

I'll probably end up 1 for 3 on the predictions. Looks like Neal will go as well. I didn't see the Adams announcement when I checked NHL.com earlier, just the blurb about the other two and their 'meetings'.

[yourchoice]

Disagree. Watch video. At 1min. To me that angle shows possible intent. Could have pinched the wall. Didnt. got the goalie. Good thing it wasnt luongo he could have been killed.

Just saying could see a game or two. Maybe.

Luls forgot to post video
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YVPuIvuP6O8&feature=youtube_gdata_player

Hmmm... interesting. I'm not sure though. If you look at the 1:14 point of the video, Smith looks to embellish it a bit. Being it was against a goaltender, Shaw may be suspended, but I'm still guessing he won't.

[Ahbroody]

Well looks like I will be pulling for Hawks soon. Sharks down 3-1 after 2. Just getting out skated and out played. That arrnot goal was a killer. Vlassic standing still watching the puck never even saw him creeping down. It will take a miracle to win this one the way they look.

[Bigwaved]

Hagelin gets 3 games for the hit on Alfredsson, which I think is a little much but I understand. Yet somehow Carkner gets only 1 for what he did to Boyle? I don't get it.
Consistency is certainly not his goal. But common sense doesn't seem to be either.
It will be interesting to see what comes out of yesterday's game 3 between the Pens and Flyers.
Yup. He has been that way all season long. Class A jackass. Although, if Alfredsson is out the rest of the series, three games may be a fair trade off. Carkner's bs should have been dealt with more severely.

[Bigwaved]

It was a good bounce back game for my boys. I like the way they play team d.

[icehog3]

Tough luck for Craig Anderson tonight, what a crap goal.

Sharks need to bear down on Thursday or it's gonna bring on the Fat Lady.

Heading to the U.C. for the Hawks game tomorrow after some fish tacos at the Twisted Spoke.

[Bruins Fan]

B's win...It's going to be interesting to see if Shanahan dose anything to Backstrom for the cross check to the Face?
The Caps have been doing a lot of stick work on the B's Ovi done the same thing, and Chimera been running wild and nothing is called and that's fine, but if a Bruin does it there gone for a few games.
Poke the bear this series is going to get nasty next game?:sh

[IBQTEE1]

Looking forward to the Hawks game tonight. Watched a little of their morning skate online this morning. Have fun at the game tonight Tom. Going to Thursday's game.

[Ahbroody]

Tough luck for Craig Anderson tonight, what a crap goal.

Sharks need to bear down on Thursday or it's gonna bring on the Fat Lady.
.
Heading to the U.C. for the Hawks game tomorrow after some fish tacos at the Twisted Spoke.


The fat lady is warming up. I can hear her. Will take a dramatic change in heart and effort to escape the Blues. I just dont see it. The leaders are not stepping up as usual. Post game last night Boyle kept reminding the reporters it was 4-1 everytime they discussed the lat.e push. Maybe its good, appears the team is in need of an overhaul.

[357]

Mike I just think the Preds depth/speed and goalie will win the day. Last game Datsyuk stole that puck and got a goal. Thats not going to happen often. Be honest great individual effort by a superstar, but flueky goal. The second goal was end of the game 6-4 empty net and pp goal. The Preds had one 5-4 pp but the other two goals were speed goals were the D got beat. Kleins goal the D got flat out beat. He skated right up the middle splitting both D. Kosti goal was speed also 3 on 1. The Preds scoring is coming from everywhere. I dont think the Wings carried the game.




Again I disagree. Datsyuk's goal was unusual but I wouldn't call it flukey. He lifted the d-man's stick twice, stole the puck and tucked it into the net. Rinne fell asleep on the play. Had Rinne been paying attention Dats would hav still hade a 1 on 1 against him at point blank range. I have to figure Dats would score on that play half the time anyway.

Preds got two majorly flukey goals in game 1, which they went on to win 3-2. One off Stuart's skate, from behind the net, and the other was unintentionally deflected twice from 50 ft out. Wings carried much of the play in that game; most of the 2nd period and all of the 3rd. Game 2, Preds carried most of the play but Wings won. Game 3, Preds jumped on the Wings early but Wings were strong in most of the 2nd and dominated the 3rd. In fact, had there been .1 seconds more on the 2nd period clock that game would've been tied 2-2 in the 2nd. I know, if wishes and buts were candy and nuts. My point is it's a tight series between two teams that matchup well. I feel the Wings have better overall talent and skate better. Look at the 4-4 play for evidence of that. Rinne is good but not head and shoulders above Howard. Rinne's numbers will look better but some of that is due to the type of offenses their facing.

I expect a strong showing tonight.

[yourchoice]

Seems to me the Yotes are playing it coy, saying Smith is a game time decision tonight, forcing Shanahan to make a decision without knowing if he'll play. Interesting tactic if that's what it is...I'm guessing Smith will play.

[357]

Seems to me the Yotes are playing it coy, saying Smith is a game time decision tonight, forcing Shanahan to make a decision without knowing if he'll play. Interesting tactic if that's what it is...I'm guessing Smith will play.

That's what the Wings should have done when Weber turnbuckled Zetterberg. "Day-to-Day" until after the sentencing.

[icehog3]

Seems to me the Yotes are playing it coy, saying Smith is a game time decision tonight, forcing Shanahan to make a decision without knowing if he'll play. Interesting tactic if that's what it is...I'm guessing Smith will play.

Exactly...what a joke. :rolleyes:

[Ahbroody]

3 games

[yourchoice]

3 games

Wow...

[Ahbroody]

Got to watch the video. I thought max 2. Does Shaw have a history. Thats pretty stiff. I saw the intent to make contact, but 3 games.

Mike move on about Weber. If the Wings get bounced are you going to use that as a crutch?

[icehog3]

Watched the video. Shanahan is high. Shaw has no history. I am so mad I can hardly see straight.

Off to the city shortly, seeing if I can find a "F*** Shanahan" shirt to wear to the game.

[yourchoice]

I'm assuming the league's (Shanahan) disciplinary actions should shed light on who went overboard yesterday [Sunday]. ;)


Adams - 1 game
Neal - 1 game
Asham - 4 games

Flyers - 0

And some really entertaining hockey tonight! The Panthers come back from a 3-0 deficit, Preds handle the Wings in a very good game and the Hawks and Yotes currently battling...with yet another suspension likely coming out of that game.