NHL 2013 Thread

[ToastedFoot]

in a day and age where most every Canadian freezes their back yard, skating is as natural to them as running and throwing to us Americans. With the growing popularity of the sport here in the states most northeast states are following suit. But to say its the most difficult sport to master is nonsense. A poll was taken in the late nineties of which was the hardest single feat to master in all professional sports and hands down it was facing a major league pitcher. An orb coming at you one hundred miles an hour and breaking twelve to eighteen inches before it hits the catchers glove, you have exactly .3 seconds to make a decision on attacking. I'm no expert in the field, but I bounced around in the minors for 4 years, hands down the hardest sport to make it professionally is baseball, and that's just because of pure numbers, everyone thinks they can do it but few can excel at it.

[icehog3]

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

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-P4VlWucGiY

Malkin still looks like twice the player Crosby is, and yes i'm a Pittsburgh'er, Suter makes a huge addition on face offs, we might be in the running this year, Crosby couldn't possibly pull his vagina in 48 games.......could he ??????

It's one game.....I may not be a Sidney fan, but he is world class. Just watch. ;)


How many people here also play/coach ice hockey?

I play on 3 men's league teams, one I have been playing for for over 20 years.

[BMack]

in a day and age where most every Canadian freezes their back yard, skating is as natural to them as running and throwing to us Americans. With the growing popularity of the sport here in the states most northeast states are following suit. But to say its the most difficult sport to master is nonsense. A poll was taken in the late nineties of which was the hardest single feat to master in all professional sports and hands down it was facing a major league pitcher. An orb coming at you one hundred miles an hour and breaking twelve to eighteen inches before it hits the catchers glove, you have exactly .3 seconds to make a decision on attacking. I'm no expert in the field, but I bounced around in the minors for 4 years, hands down the hardest sport to make it professionally is baseball, and that's just because of pure numbers, everyone thinks they can do it but few can excel at it.

A baseball has a lot more surface area than a puck and pucks travel faster, from different angles, at varying distances and hockey players knock the puck down or deflect it on a regular basis. Then you have to deflect a puck that is potentially bouncing (with sticks/skates/legs in the way) into a net, past a goalie... or from a goalie's perspective have to stop a puck that could be coming from 180* and might be deflected at any given time.

...I know the survey, yeah, yeah, "Hitting a baseball is the hardest thing to do because if you fail at it 70% of the time, you're a hall of famer" but that's not true. Pitches are hit almost every time a MLB batter swings, whether it be a foul ball or a fair ball, whether it's an out or not. It was amazing last year that Stamkos scored on just under 20% of his shots...because the average goalie saves over .900 of shots faced. So that makes scoring in the NHL a fair amount harder than hitting a baseball.

If you take any random pro hockey player and have him play in a men's league baseball game he will do fine. If you put any random baseball player in a hockey game, almost none of them will be able to stand up and move without falling down, let alone play. You VASTLY over estimate the amount of people that can skate decently enough to play hockey...and like I said, just because someone can skate doesn't mean they can play hockey.

I hope that argument isn't "too spirited" but, I've grown up playing and have coached both sports..hockey is far more complex to teach or play.

I play on 3 men's league teams, one I have been playing for for over 20 years.

Geez, 20 years on one team!? That's awesome!

[ChicagoWhiteSox]

I played pond hockey growing up. Does that count:r

[E.J.]

This thread has been derailed a bit off topic, but I'll throw in my $.02. Fact is, given 500 attempts at shooting a ball in the NBA(running the court, spotting up, you know the drill), Getting a hand off to get a 1 yard gain in football, standing at the plate for 500 AB's ect.....I think I could be successful at least one time. I imagine that most people with more than decent athletic skill could do the same.

I do not think most people, even those with the ability to skate, could keep up blue line to blue line with the NHLers, let alone get a puck by an NHL goalie. Hell, in reality, most adults in the United States couldn't score on a mite team. Say that about baseball, football or basketball.

The caveat with hockey is there is offsides....and the goalie. Not to mention that when that puck gets to you(it's going to be FLYING across the ice from an NHLer, not me), there is going to be a opponent coming at you to put you on the ice in a very violent manner if you don't collect that puck and do something with it QUICKLY....bla..bla..bla... Anyway, I think I could have a chance to hit a ball, shoot a ball, run a ball in the other sports.... I don't think there is a chance in Hell that I could skate on NHL ice, it would almost seem like a feat in itself if I could go blue line to blue line and catch a puck and get it somewhere in my 500 tries, not in the net, but to another player.....tape to tape....but, no....I wouldn't bet on that happening in 500+ tries.

I don't know, people believe what they want to believe....that is where I stand.



How many people here also play/coach ice hockey?

I help coach my daughters team.

Geez, 20 years on one team!? That's awesome!

Agreed.....

[E.J.]

Oh...and my Avs are apparently not going to go undefeated.....;)

[icehog3]

Oh...and my Avs are apparently not going to go undefeated.....;)

Bumeer, E;J,....it's no doubt the Hawks are going 48-0!




:lr :wo

[taltos]

Tom, Bruins/Hawks Cup?:D

[dvickery]

further to the "most difficult"to play well at debate...in hockey the hitting is HARDER(and at a much higher velocity) than football and there is no 5 minute break after a hit...players just get up...skate to the other end and hit again.

try this and then hit a baseball.

love hockey
derrek

[shilala]

Wait mens softball? :r:r. Following is all in fun.
I am guessing you play and must take it fairly seriously. I will just say having played baseball through high school. I could definitely smoke a cigar playing mens softball. I have had a few run ins with softball guy at work. If you think slow pitch softball played by men is a sport then golf should qualify. Golf definitely requires more skill then slow pitch softball.
No, I don't play. Just one year when I was maybe 25?
Not the point. Men's softball. Can you smoke a cigar? E.J. can, but on my team he's sitting on the bench because he's not trying enough. We'll still say Yes. Can you play with a date? No. Sport.
There's two parts: Can you take a date? Can you smoke a cigar?

I think you consider the classification as a dig or disrespect. It's not. I full well realize how hard being good at golf is. It's damn hard. But it's still a game of skill like Billiards or bowling which both require great skill to be good.
The definition of Sport:
An activity involving physical exertion and skill in which an individual or team competes against another or others.
The definition of Game:
A form of play or sport, esp. a competitive one played according to rules and decided by skill, strength, or luck.

See? You can call a sport a game, but a game isn't sport unless it involves physical exertion. That's why you'd be sitting on the bench at my softball game for not trying hard enough. I expect you to eat a great big mess of dirt at shortstop, brother. :tu

[shilala]

I grew up on a northeastern lake. Snow piles made the boards and a garden hose pulled from the basement was our Zamboni. :D
There is no sport, when viewed in it's entirety, that's tougher or more difficult to play. I don't think any MLB or NBA or NFL player in their right mind would even argue the point, not for a second.

Hitting a 90mph breaking ball might be the single toughest skill in all sports, I can buy that. I don't know what the other skills were, but it's insanely difficult even if you swing the bat all day every day, unless you can guess it's coming, then it's just a tiny bit less than insanely difficult. :lr

If a hockey player is both very skilled and very intelligent, in the case of someone like Mario, it takes that guy way over the top. To be standing behind the cage, flip the puck over the cage, and bounce it off the back of a defenseman's head into the top right corner of the goal, the only place open, that's just unreal for 1,000 reasons.

[icehog3]

Tom, Bruins/Hawks Cup?:D

I could llive with that, Paul. :)

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

[icehog3]

http://www.cbssports.com/nhl/blog/eye-on-hockey/21589204/video-benchclearing-ahl-brawl-results-in-13-game-misconducts

Old school bench clearing brawl for the Icehogs the other night....look at the number the Icehog's goalie does on the opposing netminder...and whilst wearing pink! :lr

[Gophernut]

http://www.cbssports.com/nhl/blog/eye-on-hockey/21589204/video-benchclearing-ahl-brawl-results-in-13-game-misconducts

Old school bench clearing brawl for the Icehogs the other night....look at the number the Icehog's goalie does on the opposing netminder...and whilst wearing pink! :lr

"The fight actually occurred in the second period, so it's no wonder that with 13 players tossed from the game the Griffins went on to score a franchise-record 11 goals in an 11-6 win. There had to be some tired defenseive bodies on the ice in that third period."

Emphasis added for truth! I've never seen this word before, but it seems to apply very nicely!

[icehog3]

I like that word, Steve!

Yes, 8 of the ejections were Icehogs, so they only had 11 forwards and d-men on the bench compared to 14 for the Griffins.

[Ahbroody]

many people here also play/coach ice hockey?

used to play, coach my oldest. Can't afford to play these days as my money goes to the kids fees. He's playing on a travel ice and inhouse ice team as well as a travel roller hockey club. Dad is broke these days 3 teams is expensive.


Gomez is skating with the Sharks if you need him. Would have figured a few other teams would try to get him given their condition.

[Fredo456]

http://www.cbssports.com/nhl/blog/eye-on-hockey/21589204/video-benchclearing-ahl-brawl-results-in-13-game-misconducts

Old school bench clearing brawl for the Icehogs the other night....look at the number the Icehog's goalie does on the opposing netminder...and whilst wearing pink! :lr

Nice. Takes us back to a time when players cared more about the jersey on their back and their teammates than their financial situation. I miss those days.

[kugie]

I haven't jumped in this year yet

But I love it HOCKEY'S Back

and here for at least 8 more years. :D

[Sumatra Samurai]

Can't believe Avs beat the Kings last night! We don't look very good, but we do have Landeskog...

[icehog3]

L.A. apparently didin't avoid that Stanley Cup hangover even with the extra 3 months...

Edmonton looked bad last night, Derrek....word is, Luongo is coming to Alberta.

[dvickery]

....word is, Luongo is coming to Alberta.

no thanks...edmonton doesnt need another flakey goaler...already got habby.

derrek

[icehog3]

Calling Luongo a "flakey goalie" in an insult to flakey goalies. :lr

[jonumberone]

Nice to see the Rangers get off the schnide last night!
You could feel the panic about to beset the city.

[kugie]

Rangers came out to a strong start, but the Bruins made a good game of it as soon as they showed up to play.

Gaborik with a break away, game winner, overtime, Hatrick.
It's the stuff of play ground dreams.

[Bruins Fan]

Rangers came out to a strong start, but the Bruins made a good game of it as soon as they showed up to play.

Gaborik with a break away, game winner, overtime, Hatrick.
It's the stuff of play ground dreams.

Pin this loss on the 4th line CJ just loves to play them.
Rangers have to much skill for that group,and it showed.

[Ahbroody]

Calling Luongo a "flakey goalie" in an insult to flakey goalies. :lr

Would like him to go to the east or non contender in the west.

Gomez signed one year deal with the Sharks. Was suprised he didnt go to wings and hold them up for money given their current situation on the blue line.

[Bruins Fan]

Dougie Hamilton, oh boy this kid got it, and it is what the Bruins have been missing on the blue line.
I can't believe how much CJ is praising a rookie:D

[icehog3]

Dougie Hamilton, oh boy this kid got it, and it is what the Bruins have been missing on the blue line.
I can't believe how much CJ is praising a rookie:D

I have watched the kid play, and I have to agree, he looks real good for a rook. :tu

[E.J.]

Losing Downie for the season sucks....

[icehog3]

Hossa again! Hawks come back from 2-0 to win 3-2 on Hoss' OT winner. :wnr

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

[mahtofire14]

Anybody see that Orr/Engelland fight? Damn!

http://www.hockeyfights.com/fights/115212

[dvickery]

3 games in...oilers are 2 and 1...have had the lead in exactly 0 seconds so far this year.
acceptable record yet frustrating/exciting hockey.


derrek

[Ahbroody]

Hossa again! Hawks come back from 2-0 to win 3-2 on Hoss' OT winner. :wnr

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

Meh.
Sharks down 3-1 with 12 left. Win 5-3 in regulation. Marleau has started the season like Hoss. On fiyah!

[icehog3]

3 games in...oilers are 2 and 1...have had the lead in exactly 0 seconds so far this year.
acceptable record yet frustrating/exciting hockey.


derrek

Saw the 3rd period last night, the new kid is bringing it at the right times.


Meh.
Sharks down 3-1 with 12 left. Win 5-3 in regulation. Marleau has started the season like Hoss. On fiyah!

meh yourself.

[cobra03]

Going to the Sabres game tonight. Hopefully they look better with Miller in net tonight after getting shellacked yesterday.

[icehog3]

Miller is my fantasy goalie, so I root for them in the East (unless they are playing Ottawa). :)

[drjammer]

13012

Man what a trooper! Gets hit in the face with the puck but returns and scores a goal :banger

[icehog3]

13012

Man what a trooper! Gets hit in the face with the puck but returns and scores a goal :banger

That's what hockey players do! :D

[Bruins Fan]

That's what hockey players do! :D
Tough guy

[E.J.]

Christ, maybe the Avs could put some shots on net......:sh Don't even have to make um at this point, just make Greiss work a little....

[Steve]

OK, I enjoy watching hockey, but I must admit I haven't really paid much attention in the last couple of years other than an odd game or two...anyone know what ever happened ro Daryl Puppa? I used to enjoy watching him keep goal when he was with the Lightning, but he kind off dropped off the map.

[Fredo456]

OK, I enjoy watching hockey, but I must admit I haven't really paid much attention in the last couple of years other than an odd game or two...anyone know what ever happened ro Daryl Puppa? I used to enjoy watching him keep goal when he was with the Lightning, but he kind off dropped off the map.

LOL, I think it's been more than a couple of years, brother: http://www.hockeydb.com/ihdb/stats/pdisplay.php?pid=4415

I'm surprised, though, the name was only vaguely familiar to me, but the guy had quite a lengthy career.

[AdamJoshua]

Is this where Bruins fans come to saw we rock, yet secretly don't trust Rask in goal?

(entire family from Boston and I lived there for 18 years so I'm not a "omg bruins are so good / pink hat'er")

[Steve]

LOL, I think it's been more than a couple of years, brother: http://www.hockeydb.com/ihdb/stats/pdisplay.php?pid=4415

I'm surprised, though, the name was only vaguely familiar to me, but the guy had quite a lengthy career.

It's been several years since the "Puppa Scuppa" has been in net, but he was fun to watch back in the day :D

[cobra03]

Miller is my fantasy goalie, so I root for them in the East (unless they are playing Ottawa). :)

I like Miller, but the way some people around here talk you think he was a bum. He does whine a bit from time to time but when hes on hes pretty damn good. Now if we could get more than one line to score we might be better off. Our top line has 20 points in 4 games the rest of the team has 11.

[icehog3]

Hawks 5-0.


That's all.

[Bruins Fan]

Is this where Bruins fans come to saw we rock, yet secretly don't trust Rask in goal?

(entire family from Boston and I lived there for 18 years so I'm not a "omg bruins are so good / pink hat'er")
No not me Rask won the No1 job two seasons ago, Thomas got in got hot and went on to win the cup and Vezina.
Rask is fun to watch he stands up and just glides around the net he makes it look easy.

[drjammer]

That's what hockey players do! :D

Amen brother:D

Too bad the Avs looked like crap yesterday :mad:

[icehog3]

Hawks are 6-0.

That's all.

[AdamJoshua]

No not me Rask won the No1 job two seasons ago, Thomas got in got hot and went on to win the cup and Vezina.
Rask is fun to watch he stands up and just glides around the net he makes it look easy.

The only thing easy about Rask are some of the goals he lets in. He didn't win the starting job, I still cringe over the playoffs watching him fall apart, granted out D was soft a few years back but still.

Now that I live in SD, man I miss hockey, I refuse to pay for the "NHL Network" for 1/2 season even if they give a discount so it's going to be a lot of watching highlight clips till the playoffs this year.

"Jesus saves....and Looch scores on the rebound!"

[icehog3]

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

Nick Leddy OT game winner.

[drjammer]

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

Nick Leddy OT game winner.

Great game last night, the Hawks are firing on all 8 cylinders :tu

[Fredo456]

Hawks are 6-0.

That's all.

Great game last night, the Hawks are firing on all 8 cylinders :tu

Yeah, best season debut in team history.

[dvickery]

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

Nick Leddy OT game winner.

cant help but think...#27...first name... alittledab.

derrek

[E.J.]

This is tough to watch.....

Varlamov can't catch a break....

[AdamJoshua]

cant help but think...#27...first name... alittledab.

derrek

Worst.pun.ever.


:sl

[AdamJoshua]

Wow how did Dougie Hamilton hang around that long in the draft, this kid is something special, 19 years old and playing like he's been in the league for years.

[kugie]

Good win by the B's last night.
It was nice to get that Carolina monkey off their back.

0-4 last year.

Khudobin had a good game for his first start as a Bruin this year.

Season is looking to be a good one.

[drjammer]

This is tough to watch.....

Varlamov can't catch a break....
Rough game for sure

[icehog3]

This is tough to watch.....

Varlamov can't catch a break....

Rough game for sure

Yup, Varlamov had a good game, just not much support from the rest.

[AdamJoshua]

Good win by the B's last night.
It was nice to get that Carolina monkey off their back.

0-4 last year.

Khudobin had a good game for his first start as a Bruin this year.

Season is looking to be a good one.

4-0-1 and looking tough as well, I'll take it.

Nice to see them have such a young core of players with just the right veterans mixed in, Brad M. is going to be a hell of a hockey player, might as well start calling him "the rat II" now, every time I see him play I think of Ken Linesman.

[Ahbroody]

Hawks are 6-0.

That's all.

Meh Sharks got that.

[icehog3]

Meh Sharks got that.

Meh. They'll choke in tte playoffs.

[drjammer]

Yup, Varlamov had a good game, just not much support from the rest.
Quite true hopefully the Avs get back to playing solid. I am still on the fence about Sacco though.

[rebelknight]

Meh. They'll choke in tte playoffs.

Let's hope not. Pierre Lebrun didn't pick them preseason for once and so far it's been working. Unfortunately I agreed with the folks that said the heats title last season deserved an asterisks due to the short season. It would be hypocritical of me not to apply that to hockey as well. With my luck I'll be eating my words and the Sharks will win. But I'd prefer they win with an asterisks rather than not win at all.

[Gophernut]

Fun game tonight in St Paul. Nice win by the Wild over the Hawks. WOO HOO!

[icehog3]

Unfortunately I agreed with the folks that said the heats title last season deserved an asterisks due to the short season. It would be hypocritical of me not to apply that to hockey as well.

I disagree....I will be just as impressed with whoever wins the Cup this year, the compressed schedule, no training camp, etc, makes this a real test of durability.

[ksknnr]

going to the B's tonight. Can't wait to see hamilton in person, looks good so far.

[Gophernut]

I disagree....I will be just as impressed with whoever wins the Cup this year, the compressed schedule, no training camp, etc, makes this a real test of durability.

And if I read correctly, the cup winners will still need to win 16 games in the playoffs. No shortened season there.

[drjammer]

Well the Avs have played to awful games in a row :sh

[rebelknight]

I disagree....I will be just as impressed with whoever wins the Cup this year, the compressed schedule, no training camp, etc, makes this a real test of durability.

I agree with all that. My comments about the NBA were really out of frustration from Lebron winning a championship and Derrick Rose riding the pine for more than half of this season due to an injury that might have been avoided had he not had to play a compressed season. I was just saying I'd be a hypocrite not to follow thru with those feelings in the NHL

And if I read correctly, the cup winners will still need to win 16 games in the playoffs. No shortened season there.

This much is very true and it's what scares me the most about the sharks. They could win all 48 regular season games and then fail to win 4 in the playoffs

[Ahbroody]

Meh. They'll choke in tte playoffs.
Damn pops why you got to go for the nutz like that? Lol. Im sure they will as usual. Same team basically. What I do like is the team has won without Burns or Demers so far which are 2 2nd line D. Won the other night without Boyle also. Sharks are deep at D now. They are playing great 5 on 5.

Well the Avs have played to awful games in a row :sh

Captains hurt,team isnt super deep.

[icehog3]

Sorry, Mike, you were twisting my titties about the Hawks. :r

San Jose is the last undefeated team in the NHL....Hawks will have to settle for 47-0-1. :)

[Ahbroody]

Sorry, Mike, you were twisting my titties about the Hawks. :r

San Jose is the last undefeated team in the NHL....Hawks will have to settle for 47-0-1. :)

You know your into the S&M.
If the Hawks go 47-0-1 would be worth a box of smokes lol.
Sharks may fall tonight also, but would be nice to extend this out a little bit. Think I saw something where sharks will play hawks 3 times in 7 games in month of February which will be a tough stretch.

[E.J.]

Captains hurt,team isnt super deep.

Missing Landeskog is BIG. Doesn't help that Downie went down and O'Reilly being out there in the wind....(who knows what is up with getting him signed)

That first goal yesterday looked like a HS team..... Turn the puck over in the offensive zone, then when they immediately dump, turn the puck over in the defensive zone...Varlamov slow getting back in net....just a clusterphuck.... UGH!

Special teams are TERRIBLE. If you are going to lead the league in penalties.....it would help to be okay on the PK.... Not to mention that they can't seem to draw a penalty to save their lives.... #30 in PP time(#29 in success), #30 in PK time(#25 in success)....

But.....GO AVS!!!!

[357]

Wish the Wings would have tried to sign Redden. Seems like he has some gas left in the tank. I think my Wings will be lucky to extend their playoff streak this year. Brunner looks like an intruging youngster. Playing with Dats and Z won't hurt his numbers.

Congrats to the Hawks and Sharks on a fast start.

[AdamJoshua]

Bruins pull out another shootout win, i'll take 5-0-1

[Bruins Fan]

Should be a great one tonight in Boston?
Sabers been yapping going to bring it to the B's tonight with Scott and Ott.
I am sure Lucic and Thornton will answer the bell should happen quick?

[mahtofire14]

Great game last night with the Wild knocking off the Blackhawks in a shoutout. Can't believe we won the shootout with the struggles we have had with them over the years.

[AdamJoshua]

Should be a great one tonight in Boston?
Sabers been yapping going to bring it to the B's tonight with Scott and Ott.
I am sure Lucic and Thornton will answer the bell should happen quick?

The Bruins are certainly looking like the big bad bruins of old, some great bouts during the games, Looch ... I was going to say he has the makings of another Cam ... but I don't see there being another Cam let's face it, but I do see a fair number of Gordy Howe Hattricks in Looch's future.

[Bruins Fan]

I like to see Looch go but he is to valuable to be fighting with a knuckle head like Scott, not an even trade.
The guy I like to see go is Mcquaid he is one tuff SOB.

[icehog3]

Great slate of games starting in a couple minutes! :D

[Gophernut]

Great game last night with the Wild knocking off the Blackhawks in a shoutout. Can't believe we won the shootout with the struggles we have had with them over the years.

Backstrom made a really nice save on Kane in the shootout, and stopped all of the shots he faced other than in the shootout. We'll need him to play at a high level if they are going to do anything this year.
It was also good to see the 2nd line get on the board a couple of times!

[mahtofire14]

Backstrom made a really nice save on Kane in the shootout, and stopped all of the shots he faced other than in the shootout. We'll need him to play at a high level if they are going to do anything this year.
It was also good to see the 2nd line get on the board a couple of times!

Yeah it was. Bouchard looks like he's almost back to himself. We should have two other lines that can score other than the Koivu, Heatley, Parise line. I was really big on the Setoguchi trade last year but he hasn't played well at all here.

[icehog3]

If Sharp's shot had been one inch over, they would be in round 4....he had Backstrom beat cleanly.

[mahtofire14]

If Sharp's shot had been one inch over, they would be in round 4....he had Backstrom beat cleanly.

I won't argue with you on that one. We paint our goal posts extra thick here in MN.....This is going to be one hell of an entertaining series all year long....

[icehog3]

I won't argue with you on that one. We paint our goal posts extra thick here in MN.....This is going to be one hell of an entertaining series all year long....

We need to get Crawford some of that paint! :lr

Always is entertaining, the Wild always dump it in and punish the Hawks defensemen, which seems to be a good strategy.

[mahtofire14]

Hasn't Crawford been one of the best goalies in the league so far?

[icehog3]

Hasn't Crawford been one of the best goalies in the league so far?

Much better than expected...but I'll trade him straight up for Craig Anderson right now. ;)

[mahtofire14]

You take that back!!!! Craig Anderson????

[icehog3]

You take that back!!!! Craig Anderson????

He's a friend, but he has also been stellar the last couple seasons.

[mahtofire14]

Fair enough. Always good to have friends in high places....I went to high school with a handful of guys that are NHL'ers now. Cool to watch them for sure.

[icehog3]

No doubt, Pete. I used to have a lot of friends in the league back in the 90's, now Anderson is the only true friend I have that is still in the NHL.

[Bruins Fan]

B's go down, Scott knocks out Thornton with three shots.:sl
A lot I could say about this one but won't.
Ruff WTF calls time out with 13 seconds leading by three.
That won't be forgotten.
Thomas Vanek had a great game for the Sabers.

[icehog3]

I switched back to the Devils game, Ruff called a timeout then? I like him, but that is bush league.

Vanek is off to a great start this season indeed. Glad he is in the East.

[Ahbroody]

Sharks are 7-0.
Preds and Ducks coming up next. They could extend this a bit. After those two it will be the battle of the titans. Sharks vs Hawks.

[icehog3]

Congrats on the 1st place Sharks, Mike...they found a way, even though I thought Dubnyk was superb. :tu

Sharks, Hawks and Blues look like the clear cut "cream of the West" to this point.

[kugie]

B's go down, Scott knocks out Thornton with three shots.:sl
A lot I could say about this one but won't.
Ruff WTF calls time out with 13 seconds leading by three.
That won't be forgotten.
Thomas Vanek had a great game for the Sabers.

Tough beat last night.
Scott is a beast and Thornton went off dazed and confused.
you don't see that everyday.

Not only did he call the time out he did so he could get Scott on the ice.

Next up Lucic vs Scott

[E.J.]

Was not able to watch the game, but Avs get a win....Jiggy's first of the year.

[icehog3]

Tough beat last night.
Scott is a beast and Thornton went off dazed and confused.
you don't see that everyday.

Not only did he call the time out he did so he could get Scott on the ice.

Next up Lucic vs Scott

Why would he need to call a timeout to put Scott on the ice? :confused:

[cobra03]

B's go down, Scott knocks out Thornton with three shots.:sl
A lot I could say about this one but won't.
Ruff WTF calls time out with 13 seconds leading by three.
That won't be forgotten.
Thomas Vanek had a great game for the Sabers.

I went out to watch the game last night and no one could figure out why Ruff did that. It looked like he pulled all his skill guys and put the goons out. I didnt see the post game but i guess he said he thought the Bruins might try to fight. Any way it should make for some good games between these two.

[AdamJoshua]

Bush league move by Ruff and the real Rask showed up, glad to see he's back to giving up the 50 footers this season! Oi ...

"The 6-foot-8, 258-pound Scott" christ talk about goons 5 points in almost 160 games, at least Thornton can actually play hockey on the side.

[Ahbroody]

Makes sense. Stranger things have happened at the end of a game. In my opinion it would not be out of character for the Bs to do that so I dont think ruff was totally out of line. It was a physical emotional game.

Remember as visitor he doesnt have advantage of last change so maybe he saw or heard something. If he called time and did nothing then yeah its bush. If he was trying to protect his stars I dont think its that bush. Not a Sabres fan and if anything like the Bs more, guess people need fuel for the next game.

[icehog3]

OK, if he already had his line out, and saw who the Bruins had out with their home ice "last change", I can see that now.

[ksknnr]

looks like thornton is out 7-10 days with a concussion.

[icehog3]

"The 6-foot-8, 258-pound Scott" christ talk about goons 5 points in almost 160 games, at least Thornton can actually play hockey on the side.

Not a great NHL'er, but you gotta admit the guy is a beast.

[cobra03]

Not a great NHL'er, but you gotta admit the guy is a beast.

Your absolutelty right. The Sabres brought him in for the physical presence not to score. They have these very GQ esk style photos of all the Sabres players around the concourse at the arena. I laughed at the one of Scott when i was there last week. He still looks like a goon.:r

[AdamJoshua]

Goons have their place, but most of the can actually play the game, he's one of the few that are only there to throw down. Even marty mcsorley had a 40 point season once, and he was only around to protect Wayne for a lot of those years.

I love hockey, I love the action, the speed, yes the fights, but even I have a hard time with the fact a team would carry a guy JUST to fight these days, and no it's not because I'm a Bruins fan, I'd rather see a Looch or a Neely out there scoring goals and throwing down.

[Ahbroody]

How quickly we forget.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZqLPj63jDEU&feature=youtube_gdata_player.

Scott was brought in for a purpose and last night he performed his job perfectly.
Lets not forget that was lucic fight but his a$$ aint going to answer the bell unless he intends on getting a worse beating then thorton did.
https://thehockeywriters.com/props-to-shawn-thornton-for-taking-milan-lucics-fight/
All the respect in the world for thorton for doing what he did.

One things for sure Boston will not be punking miller or the sabres this year as they have already seen their fighter take a severe beating and concussed and nobody did a damn thing about it. If im scott I grab lucic in the corner next time and beat that A$$. I mean ragdoll him. Then watch how no one steps up. Scott will be a hero in Buffalo and it will be advantage sabres.

[Bruins Fan]

There you go again Mike talking out your ass as usual.

[AdamJoshua]

How quickly we forget.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZqLPj63jDEU&feature=youtube_gdata_player.

Scott was brought in for a purpose and last night he performed his job perfectly.
Lets not forget that was lucic fight but his a$$ aint going to answer the bell unless he intends on getting a worse beating then thorton did.
https://thehockeywriters.com/props-to-shawn-thornton-for-taking-milan-lucics-fight/
All the respect in the world for thorton for doing what he did.

One things for sure Boston will not be punking miller or the sabres this year as they have already seen their fighter take a severe beating and concussed and nobody did a damn thing about it. If im scott I grab lucic in the corner next time and beat that A$$. I mean ragdoll him. Then watch how no one steps up. Scott will be a hero in Buffalo and it will be advantage sabres.


It must be sad to have absolutely nothing to look forward to each and every hockey season. I feel for ya brother, chin up! :r

[Ahbroody]

There you go again Mike talking out your ass as usual.

Yup homer there I go.
Isnt it about time for you to say they need to fire the coach and trade a bunch of players like you did the year they won the cup? Seasons only a few weeks old so I guess you need a few more weeks. Talk about pot calling the kettle black.

Adam thats deep. Trully enlightened point.

I like how even lucic said if it was their goalie somone would have paid. Apparently its only okay if its your guy. Man I hope Scott beats that A$$ now. Lol

[mahtofire14]

:po

[Ahbroody]

Tough loss last night Tom. Bobby Lou played a great game tough. Watched most of the game and the shootout.

Kids travel team coach scored a lower level luxury box to tonights game. Whole team going for free. Im working cant go sucks.

[icehog3]

and no it's not because I'm a Bruins fan, I'd rather see a Looch or a Neely out there scoring goals and throwing down.

Of course you would, but it is what it is.

Tough loss last night Tom. Bobby Lou played a great game tough. Watched most of the game and the shootout.



Another valuable point...and the best news was that Crawford was good once again. :)

[E.J.]

Nice win for the Avs.... Love Saturday afternoon games for some reason.... Everyone naps and I get uninterrupted game...

[Ahbroody]

Crawford was good once again. :)

PP was not pretty, but PK looked good.

[icehog3]

PP was not pretty, but PK looked good.

Agreed....shot selection (or accuracy) was awful all around.

[icehog3]

Hossa scores with 3.1 seconds left to send the Hawks to O.T., and then the shootout, where the Hawks win. Emery stole the game for the Hawks with 45 saves in a 3-2 win.

Sharks and Hawks still undefeated in regulation. Sharks fell in a shootout, but still look like the Best of the West. Hoping for a great game, Hawks V. Sharks, on Tuesday.

[mahtofire14]

:fp2 :r

[Ahbroody]

I watched the end of Hawks game at work on phone. Crazy thought they wouldn't survive the OT.
Had to listen to the Sharks game on radio blacked out on GC. Thought it was going to play out the same.

View from the luxury box my kid got to sit in for free
http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b358/ahbroody/IMG951031_2.jpg

Should have called in sick

[E.J.]

^^^ Awesome!

[mahtofire14]

Alright all you Eastern Conference guys. I need you to tell me what you think of my Wild trading for Mike Rupp from the Rangers. I'm not a fan of it as we gave away Darrel Powe (don't care) and a big, young talented scorer, Nick Palmieri, who was up and down with us last year. Rupp is just a goon from what I can tell. Any thoughts? Seems like all we're going after lately is brawn and not talent. (After the Parise/Suter signing of course)

[icehog3]

Rupp was a decent player for a goon, and a good leader, but his tank is just about empty. Maybe the Wild feels they need his leadership in the locker room?

[Fredo456]

I'm not a fan of it as we gave away Darrel Powe (don't care) and a big, young talented scorer, Nick Palmieri, who was up and down with us last year. Rupp is just a goon from what I can tell. Any thoughts? Seems like all we're going after lately is brawn and not talent. (After the Parise/Suter signing of course)

I agree that it doesn't make a lot of sense. It appears that Powe/Rupp have a similar role: to provide hits. Rupp hasn't been a real goon throughout his career, with only 3 seasons above 100 PIM. Powe had slowed down this season, in the hits dept.

As for Palmieri, I agree that he's still somewhat young (for a power forward anyway), but in 3 pro careers, hasn't shown he could be more than a journeyman, with 87 games played. He hasn't been a talented scorer at previous levels of his career (OHL, AHL) either and didn't crack the lineup as a 23 year-old. He cleared the waivers after training camp, so nobody else wanted him.

Maybe the Wild feels they need his leadership in the locker room?

That's what I'd say too. Perhaps they even think he can still contribute on the ice.

[mahtofire14]

I guess I just don't really see the point. Veteran leadership I suppose. From what I saw of Palmieri when he came up for a couple weeks he looked real good. Sat in front of the net and pounded in a few rebounds, screened the goalie, something the Wild are desperately lacking since Mark Parrish. He has 10 goals and 11 assists for Houston this year. Rupp isn't with the team for the game tonight so I'll have to wait and see.

[mahtofire14]

Another game into this shortened season, another loss in which the offense struggled. The Wild look like a team that have practiced together twice all year. Which is probably close to accurate. Missing passes, don't seem to have that "feel" of where their teammates are going to be. Hope it get's better quick or we're gonna have a tough cliff to climb....

[Ahbroody]

The Ducks have always been a tough team for the Sharks regardless of their record. Last night was no different. The thing that sucks is if the Ducks hadnt gotten that fluke goal the Sharks probably would have held on. Braun tried to play the puck around the boards behind the net. Greiss didnt hold the post long enough. Puck kicks of something on the board and shoots out in front. Greiss had no idea where the puckwent and it ends up in the net. That said they went 0 for 6 on PP and that was really the problem.

Sourays slapper from the point was scary. Went right by some faces and top corner.

[E.J.]

Strange..... +/- 20% through the season already....

NEED to get Landeskog back on the ice....though don't want to rush a concussion....

Parenteau has been great.

GET O'Reilly signed.... Though is the foot healthy?

[Sumatra Samurai]

Strange..... +/- 20% through the season already....

NEED to get Landeskog back on the ice....though don't want to rush a concussion....

Parenteau has been great.

GET O'Reilly signed.... Though is the foot healthy?

Agreed O'Reilly is a must!

[yourchoice]

Good game tonight between the Lightning and the Flyers. Hopefully a run of similar results against the SE Conference to get the Flyers back to relevancy...

[E.J.]

Holy smokes.... The Sharks vs Blackhawks game is going to hit double figured for each team at this rate....

[hazydat620]

^^^
I'm watching that one too, 3 goals in what 2 min!

[icehog3]

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

[Ahbroody]

Sucks that Hawks scored on the resulting 4 on 4 from a legal hit. Sharks should have had a 5 on 4 for 4 minutes. Dejardins gets a match penalty for a shoulder to shoulder check. Good game by both teams, but if legal checks on suicide passes are now now match penalties we got issues. Bad pass and Mayers has been playing long enough to know looking back for a pass coming through the middle is begging to get hit.

http://sports.yahoo.com/blogs/nhl-puck-daddy/sharks-andrew-desjardins-ejected-another-phantom-hit-head-064407640--nhl.html

Still great game by both clubs. Congrats Tom.

[Gophernut]

Obviously, to me, that was a clean hit. It was a hard hit, and in the speed of the moment, I could see why the ref would think it was to the head. That's what happens when you have human refs. Mayers should have known that he was putting himself into a bad spot, and Dejardins blew him up.

[icehog3]

Sucks that Hawks scored on the resulting 4 on 4 from a legal hit. Sharks should have had a 5 on 4 for 4 minutes. Dejardins gets a match penalty for a shoulder to shoulder check. Good game by both teams, but if legal checks on suicide passes are now now match penalties we got issues. Bad pass and Mayers has been playing long enough to know looking back for a pass coming through the middle is begging to get hit.

http://sports.yahoo.com/blogs/nhl-puck-daddy/sharks-andrew-desjardins-ejected-another-phantom-hit-head-064407640--nhl.html

Still great game by both clubs. Congrats Tom.

Even the Hawks announcers (Pat Foley and Eddie Olzcyk) said it was a bad call. I agree, and a bad break for the Sharks. Johnny T. picking Murray's pocket sure was pretty, though.

Sharks and Hawks should be the class of the West....they play the next couple Fridays in Chicago, I expect 2 more great games, Mike.

[icehog3]

P.S....I have the Shark broadcast replay of the game set to record this afternoon, I like their TV announcers, and am curious to hear their comments on several plays and goals.

[AdamJoshua]

It's absolutely amazing how bad the Bs suck on the powerplay, not just that they are 3 for 33 or something so far this year, this has been a problem for the past several years, with the talent they have I just don't understand how they can be SO freakin bad. Terrible passes, terrible puck control and when they control the puck they they pass until it gets hammered out of the zone or it slips by on the point. In the words of Charlie Brown ..AAUGH!!!!!!

[Bruins Fan]

Tuukka time :D

[Bruins Fan]

CJ shook it up Segs on the 1st dropped Horton and things happened:tu

[E.J.]

Avs.....ugh..... Not exactly surprised, but at least I get to go watch the High School kids play and will just DVR the rest.... Never seems as bad, watching it without stops....

[Fredo456]

Tuukka time :D

Yeah, he really stole this one.

[Ahbroody]

Even the Hawks announcers (Pat Foley and Eddie Olzcyk) said it was a bad call. I agree, and a bad break for the Sharks. Johnny T. picking Murray's pocket sure was pretty, though.

Sharks and Hawks should be the class of the West....they play the next couple Fridays in Chicago, I expect 2 more great games, Mike.

Is was a nice stick lift. Radio said Murray went to Nemo after and apologized.
I am sure all the meetings of the two clubs should be good.

[icehog3]

Media is all abuzz about Hossa and the Hawks playing Torres tonight. Usually when the hype is this big, nothing happens.

[AdamJoshua]

I'm bummed, Bruins trade Timmy Thomas to the Isles for conditional 2nd rounder in '14 or 15. Sure I know he's sitting out but still ...

http://espn.go.com/nhl/story/_/id/8927270/tim-thomas-traded-boston-bruins-new-york-islanders

[mahtofire14]

Big game for my Wild tonight. Vancouver at home tonight....Must win game. Rupp's first game with the club tonight too. We'll see how that goes.

Media is all abuzz about Hossa and the Hawks playing Torres tonight. Usually when the hype is this big, nothing happens.

I could see someone taking a run at him but I don't see anything major happening.

[icehog3]

I'm bummed, Bruins trade Timmy Thomas to the Isles for conditional 2nd rounder in '14 or 15. Sure I know he's sitting out but still ...

http://espn.go.com/nhl/story/_/id/8927270/tim-thomas-traded-boston-bruins-new-york-islanders

I don't blame the Bruins organization not wanting him back after the flakey sh!t he pulled this year. :2

Big game for my Wild tonight. Vancouver at home tonight....Must win game. Rupp's first game with the club tonight too. We'll see how that goes.



I could see someone taking a run at him but I don't see anything major happening.You might see Brandon Bollig try and goad him, but if Torres is smart, he will decline....but he is a tough guy, he might go ahead and fight just to get it all behind him.

[Gophernut]

Big game for my Wild tonight. Vancouver at home tonight....Must win game. Rupp's first game with the club tonight too. We'll see how that goes.


Should be a fun game. Lot's changes as far as the lines go. It will be interesting to see how Heatley plays with the 2nd line.

[mahtofire14]

Should be a fun game. Lot's changes as far as the lines go. It will be interesting to see how Heatley plays with the 2nd line.

I like this move....Coyle looked damn good for a 20 year old.

[Gophernut]

I like this move....Coyle looked damn good for a 20 year old.

I agree, I like it too. Coyle did look good, and Bouchard has a guy with a proven ability to score goals as a line mate.

[mahtofire14]

Another bad rebound on a weak shot given up by Backstrom leads to a rebound goal. He looks like he is super slow this year especially side to side.

[icehog3]

Kane gets his second straight 2 goal game with two power play goals. Hawks without a regulation loss 11 games in.

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

[Bruins Fan]

I'm bummed, Bruins trade Timmy Thomas to the Isles for conditional 2nd rounder in '14 or 15. Sure I know he's sitting out but still ...

http://espn.go.com/nhl/story/_/id/8927270/tim-thomas-traded-boston-bruins-new-york-islanders

Great move Bruins free up 5 million and are now under the cap.
The Islanders pick up cap money that they won't have to pay.
Looks like a big move is on the way?

[dman4505]

Blackhawks look good so far
Hope they can keep it up

Don

[Gophernut]

Another bad rebound on a weak shot given up by Backstrom leads to a rebound goal. He looks like he is super slow this year especially side to side.

He's been giving up some big juicy rebounds, especially last night. I would have to guess Harding will be in nets tomorrow vs Nashville.

[icehog3]

Blackhawks look good so far
Hope they can keep it up

Don

No way they can keep up the pace, just hope they can be consistent. :tu


Great move Bruins free up 5 million and are now under the cap.
The Islanders pick up cap money that they won't have to pay.
Looks like a big move is on the way?

The Bruins are moving to Portland? :noon

[AdamJoshua]

LOL Portland would be a big move, not as big a move as the Whalers made back in the day ...

I don't see the bruins making a 'personnel' move, I see them wanting to be under the threshold. They have good chemistry and are clicking, hell the first season is almost over and time for the playoffs already! haha

[mahtofire14]

Had a bird's eye view of a 2-1 OT Wild victory. Setoguchi with the over time goal. Hopefully that get's him going. Glad to be at one of the better games the Wild have played this year.
http://i262.photobucket.com/albums/ii91/drscholl14/B553920F-3A78-454E-BF50-AFBC65A0D483-859-0000008281DC5E6E_zps1069dded.jpg?t=1360471943

[icehog3]

The Wild got a gift, that penalty on the Preds was complete :bs

[mahtofire14]

It was but it was a nice goal and they finally looked like a team that had a little bit of chemistry late in the game! Not to mention the zebras missed about 4 penalties on the Preds during regulation.

[Gophernut]

Had a bird's eye view of a 2-1 OT Wild victory. Setoguchi with the over time goal. Hopefully that get's him going. Glad to be at one of the better games the Wild have played this year.

Love those seats. Can watch the plays develop. Back in the Lemaire days that's where I learned about the neutral zone trap!

Yeah, the penalty was a gift, but sometimes you catch a break. Not something I'm used to with the Wild.

[mahtofire14]

Definitely I was right in line with the Seto GW goal and you could tell he was out there to take that shot. They got it to him three times before Mason finally slid over late and got beat.

[icehog3]

http://i196.photobucket.com/albums/aa73/icehog3/Hawkswin_zpsbbbc8309.png

[Ahbroody]

Hawks and Bruins doin well.
Watched Bs Sabres the other day. Have not seen a team standing around like the sabres in their own zone in a long time.

Sharks have gone ice cold look horrible. Ahhh sky is falling. Ahhhhhhhhhhhhh

[E.J.]

Ouch, tough way to lose for the Avs. Dominating OT, puck off a referee when trying to clear....game over. Played just well enough to lose I guess.....:gary

[Ahbroody]

Saw that. Bad bad. Somebody said something to him and he barked at the player.

[icehog3]

Sharks have gone ice cold look horrible. Ahhh sky is falling. Ahhhhhhhhhhhhh

Marleau and Thornton started out as the 2 hottest forwards in the NHL, then went 5 games without a single point from either of them. At least they got off the snide tonight, maybe a good sign for the future.

I hope just not on the next 2 Fridays. :lr

[357]

Wings are second in the Central but they're GF/GA is bad. Only +1 overall. They have won 3 straight though. Haven't had a chance to watch much. Been too busy. Need to make some time.

[icehog3]

Interesting statistic I heard today.

The Islanders Matt Moulson has scored 65 goals since December 2010. John Tavares has been on the ice for every single one of them. Wow.

[rebelknight]

Sharks lose 6th straight. At least in the playoffs my misery ends at 4 in a row.

[AdamJoshua]

Yah talk about falling apart and fast, meanwhile Chi is still steamrolling and the Bs are staying fairly solid, still ticked only get 1/2 season.

[Ahbroody]

Sharks lose 6th straight. At least in the playoffs my misery ends at 4 in a row.

Bad run. Mix of bad bad play and bad luck, really just bad play. The game against cbj where vlassic is playing anisimov on the breakaway with Foligno to the wall loses his stick. Instead of continuing to play anisimov and just bodying him he stops to go get his stick. Now its a 2 on 1 and a easy goal. How in your own zone you would think thats the best choice I dont know. It was literally like he just said &uckit. This from an (allegedly) top level defenseman.

[357]

Bad run. Mix of bad bad play and bad luck, really just bad play. The game against cbj where vlassic is playing anisimov on the breakaway with Foligno to the wall loses his stick. Instead of continuing to play anisimov and just bodying him he stops to go get his stick. Now its a 2 on 1 and a easy goal. How in your own zone you would think thats the best choice I dont know. It was literally like he just said &uckit. This from an (allegedly) top level defenseman.

I claim no significant experience playing hockey; aside from playing street & floor hockey in elementary school, and 1 season of roller hockey in college and I think I learned better than that by day 2.

[E.J.]

This is just a frustrating year so far........ Now EJ is out as well.....and word is that the good money is that O'Reilly has played his last game in an Avs jersey.......

[icehog3]

Matt Cooke is at it again, and now Ottawa has lost the highest scoring D-man in the NHL for an extended period.

http://espn.go.com/nhl/story/_/id/8945810/erik-karlsson-ottawa-senators-needs-achilles-surgery-suffering-cut-skate

I was watching the game....looked like an obvious stomp to the back of the leg to me. The Pens announcers kept playing it off as an inadventant accident. Watch the replay at 0:46 and decide for yourself.

Hope this guy gets tossed for good. :2

[Bruins Fan]

Matt Cooke is at it again, and now Ottawa has lost the highest scoring D-man in the NHL for an extended period.

http://espn.go.com/nhl/story/_/id/8945810/erik-karlsson-ottawa-senators-needs-achilles-surgery-suffering-cut-skate

I was watching the game....looked like an obvious stomp to the back of the leg to me. The Pens announcers kept playing it off as an inadventant accident. Watch the replay at 0:46 and decide for yourself.

Hope this guy gets tossed for good. :2
Sure did look like that guy had some intent there?
Cooke is a POS and should have been dealt with long ago.

[drjammer]

This is just a frustrating year so far........ Now EJ is out as well.....and word is that the good money is that O'Reilly has played his last game in an Avs jersey.......

I agree with you, looks like it will be another ho-hum season at best :2

[Ahbroody]

Matt Cooke is at it again, and now Ottawa has lost the highest scoring D-man in the NHL for an extended period.

http://espn.go.com/nhl/story/_/id/8945810/erik-karlsson-ottawa-senators-needs-achilles-surgery-suffering-cut-skate

I was watching the game....looked like an obvious stomp to the back of the leg to me. The Pens announcers kept playing it off as an inadventant accident. Watch the replay at 0:46 and decide for yourself.

Hope this guy gets tossed for good. :2

I watched the video on YouTube. I hope he finally goes away, but doubt it will happen. Hes going to say it wasnt on purpose. Given he tried to kick osgood in the neck he has shown he will use his skates. I know you dont like Grapes Tom, but his video on Cooke is perfect and shows a lot of his intent to injure knee hits and headshots. He was quiet for a season, but you knew he would do something.

[icehog3]

I agree that his true colors were gonna come out again at some point, Mike...leopard and his spots, ya know. To me, it is clear cut he did that to Karlsson intentionally.

And who said I don't like Grapes? :r He is obnoxious, but he is also funny and sure knows his hockey.

[Gophernut]

I agree that his true colors were gonna come out again at some point, Mike...leopard and his spots, ya know. To me, it is clear cut he did that to Karlsson intentionally.

I can guarantee that he will say it was not intentional. I do think he meant to do it. I've watched a lot of hockey in my life, and I can remember ever seeing someone bringing up the skate like that while finishing a check. Cooke's reputation definitely proceeds him here. I think he should definitely face some disciplinary action.

[icehog3]

Shanahan has already said no discipline for Cooke, Steve. And we know Cooke will say it was unintentional. But like you, I know of no play along the boards where lifting the skate a foot of the ice is a "hockey play".

[mahtofire14]

Matt Cooke is the biggest cheat shot artist in the NHL and has been for years. Had to deal with him in Vancouver for years playing against the Wild. I remember one cheap shot in particular where he took a head shot against Mikko Koivu and when our enforcer Matt Johnson (who could take anybody down) stepped in to fight him, Cooke slashed him in the ankle and spent the rest of the game running from him and hiding behind his teammates. Hate that guy.

[E.J.]

Avs win(SO)....I'm not watching.... Hope it wasn't some type of karma thing.....:confused:

:r

GO AVS!

[mahtofire14]

Avs win(SO)....I'm not watching.... Hope it wasn't some type of karma thing.....:confused:

:r

GO AVS!

I'd say it was mostly because the Wild have no clue how to win shootouts....It was a good game though. The Wild actually scored more than one goal, and the Aves looked pretty good even with all the injuries.

[icehog3]

Hawks are now tied for 3rd longest undefeated in regulation streak to start a season, and only 2 from the record. The Anaheim Ducks started 12-0-4 in 2006-07. The Edmonton Oilers went 12-0-3 in 1984-85.

[Ahbroody]

Sharks are just on a downward spiral.
Ugly to watch

[icehog3]

Sharks are just on a downward spiral.
Ugly to watch

Niemi has been the bright spot, with the exception of last night...he just ran into a freight train, Mike.

[E.J.]

Avs are going to give up 60 SOG tonight...WTF???

Go Avs!!!

[icehog3]

Oilers look desperate, be afraid, E.J.....be very afraid. ;)

[E.J.]

Phuck....ugh... That game hurt to watch...

[icehog3]

Oilers just wanted it more at the end, and the Bulin Wall looked pretty spry for 40.

Better luck next game, E.J. Hopefully the Avs find some consistency (except when they play the Hawks). ;)

[icehog3]

http://i196.photobucket.com/albums/aa73/icehog3/Hawkswin2_zps2530ab02.png

[mahtofire14]

After one of the worst first periods I've ever seen the Wild play they came back from two rip to beat the Wings 3-2. I was about to give up in this game. Glad I didnt.

[icehog3]

After one of the worst first periods I've ever seen the Wild play they came back from two rip to beat the Wings 3-2. I was about to give up in this game. Glad I didnt.

You must not watch too many Wild games.



I keed, I keed!! ;s

[mahtofire14]

That stung Hog......and as underachieving as they have been that was still the worst first period Ive seen for awhile

[icehog3]

That stung Hog......and as underachieving as they have been that was still the worst first period Ive seen for awhile

Just funnin', the Wild have beaten the Hawks almost every time I have seen them at the UC, so maybe I am a little bitter. :lr

[icehog3]

Hawks tie the record for best start in NHL history, but may have lost Marian Hossa in the process. Forearm shiver to the back of the head from Yannik Hanson for no good reason....man, I have the cucking Fanucks.

[mahtofire14]

I'm with you on the Canucks. Hate em!

[dman4505]

Hawks tie the record for best start in NHL history, but may have lost Marian Hossa in the process. Forearm shiver to the back of the head from Yannik Hanson for no good reason....man, I have the cucking Fanucks.

Now if only the Cubs would play like that......Oh wait just dreaming better wake up.

Don

Let's go Hawks get the record and bring the Cup back where it belongs

[cobra03]

Buffalo Sabres just fired coach Lindy Ruff. I really liked the guy alot and hes a good coach but after 15+ years i think it was time. I wish him the best of luck and he will find a new coaching job in no time im sure.

[icehog3]

Buffalo Sabres just fired coach Lindy Ruff. I really liked the guy alot and hes a good coach but after 15+ years i think it was time. I wish him the best of luck and he will find a new coaching job in no time im sure.

They were talking about in being a possibility on NHL.XM this morning, but I didn't think it would happen.

[cobra03]

They were talking about in being a possibility on NHL.XM this morning, but I didn't think it would happen.

They have been talking about it for a while around here. I can tell you as much as fans wanted it, no one ever thought it would happen especially this season. 15 years is an eternity for a coach in sports.

[icehog3]

It is, Scott....I like Ruff as well, but understand it's ulimately a business.

[Ahbroody]

Congrats Tom.
Suprised about Ruff.
Sharks finally eeeeeked out a win.

[icehog3]

Congrats Tom.
Suprised about Ruff.
Sharks finally eeeeeked out a win.

Hopefully the Sharks will go on a run now, Mike.

Except on Friday night. ;)

[Mr B]

Sharks finally eeeeeked out a win.

X2 :noon that was getting depressing.

[AdamJoshua]

I can't believe they only gave Hansen 1 game, oh well typical dirty 'nuk player... I saw enough of them in the finals a couple years ago, never realized what an out and out cheap team they really were.

Here's to many more years of Lou choking in net for them.

[icehog3]

Doesn't really matter to me if he got 1 or 100 games, I just care about Hossa not being concussed.

[AdamJoshua]

This is true, just doesn't send much of a message from the league about skating up behind someone and hitting them with a forearm in the back of the head... oh well they play again, players have a better system of justice anyway.

I Just don't like that team very much as a whole, plus have an ex from vancouver and she loves them (as much as any bandwagon canuck fan can love their team) so that's 2 strikes against them haha

[yourchoice]

Another wild one tonight between the Pens and Flyers. Very intense game with a crazy last 5 minutes. Hopefully the Flyers will carry the momentum of the last couple of games.

[icehog3]

Another wild one tonight between the Pens and Flyers. Very intense game with a crazy last 5 minutes. Hopefully the Flyers will carry the momentum of the last couple of games.

Great game, Joel, fun to watch. Vokoun really screwed the pooch on that 6th goal, but that's good for the Flyers.

[E.J.]

Avs have won 2 straight and 3-4.....

Hejduk goes down in the second, does not return....

[icehog3]

Hossa skated this morning, hear my sigh of relief....

[Gophernut]

Hossa skated this morning, hear my sigh of relief....

Saw an interview with him, and he looked good. Said he didn't think he was concussed, just didn't feel right. That is good news for the Hawks. Should be an interesting game tonight!

[mahtofire14]

Two straight wins for the Wild and Old Man Cullen scored two goals and had a point in each score for the team last night. Looks like they've found some of their scoring touch again. Glad to see Hossa OK. One helluva player and those concussions have gotten pretty scary and hard to get right after one.

[icehog3]

Two straight wins for the Wild and Old Man Cullen scored two goals and had a point in each score for the team last night. Looks like they've found some of their scoring touch again. Glad to see Hossa OK. One helluva player and those concussions have gotten pretty scary and hard to get right after one.

We are pretty happy in Chicago for sure. Daniel Carcillo will be in the line-up as well. Give us Seabrook, and I think that record is ours.

[E.J.]

Looks like Landeskog is going to play Saturday against the Kings.... Will be good to have him back.... No word on Hejduk...

[icehog3]

Looks like Landeskog is going to play Saturday against the Kings.... Will be good to have him back.... No word on Hejduk...

Very cool, exciting young player to watch!

[Ahbroody]

Congrats to Hawks.
Good physical game by both clubs. SJ just didnt look good at times and coukdnt match the Hawks speed at times. Sharks now get to to play in Dallas tomorrow night.

[icehog3]

Sharks made me nervous, they clogged the shooting lanes nicely all night.

Good thing for Clowe he didn't pummel Shaw at the end, might have gotten a 10 game suspension for coming off the bench. Of course, the way Clowe has played this season, I dropped him off both of my fantasy teams earlier today.

[E.J.]

Unbelievable run... Hats off and congrats... Surreal...

[icehog3]

Unbelievable run... Hats off and congrats... Surreal...

Yup, something you would expect to see someone else's team doing. Color me one happy Blackhawks fan, E.J. :D

[E.J.]

Avs lose....think they were distracted by the Kings unis...;)

[icehog3]

Avs lose....think they were distracted by the Kings units...;)

That is so wrong...... :)

[E.J.]

That is so wrong...... :)

Could have been that as well....:r Varlamov gave up some soft goals IMO....he did not look good.

[icehog3]

Could have been that as well....:r Varlamov gave up some soft goals IMO....he did not look good.

Didn't see the game, but heard Landeskog had a goal and an assist?

[E.J.]

Just an assist, to Hejduk....so they both played.

[icehog3]

Just an assist, to Hejduk....so they both played.

At least that is some good news. :tu

[E.J.]

Avs up 2-0... Great start....

[icehog3]

Hawks up 1-0 after 2, looking to extend the record.

[E.J.]

Hawks up 1-0 after 2, looking to extend the record.

Just saw that on the highlights.... Unbelievable....

[E.J.]

Deflected knuckleball from Mitchell was sweet....meaning, sweet for an Avs fan!!! Jiggy playing great! Go Avs!

[icehog3]

http://i196.photobucket.com/albums/aa73/icehog3/Hawkswin2_zps2530ab02.png

[E.J.]

Christ.... Sooooo many shots on goal(against) every game... Not to mention the Avs had one SOG in the 3rd.... Lucky to get a point... Jiggy played okay...need better play in front of the net.

[icehog3]

Tough loss, E.J.

[drjammer]

Tough loss, E.J.

More like tough season so far

[E.J.]

2 games for Ryane Clowe.

http://www.nhl.com/ice/news.htm?id=657415&print=true

[icehog3]

2 games for Ryane Clowe.

http://www.nhl.com/ice/news.htm?id=657415&print=true

Dropped him from both my fantasy teams anyway, he is a complete bust this season.

[icehog3]

Hossa overtime game winner.

http://i196.photobucket.com/albums/aa73/icehog3/HossaOT_zpsba288fb3.png

16-0-3

[AdamJoshua]

Bruins are playing outstanding this season, not out of their minds like the 'hawks, but still what a great season so far. Brad the Rat is really coming into his own, 5 points in the last 4 games and what should have been a two goal night tonight so far.

[AdamJoshua]

2 minutes of empty net, 5 missed shots at it and the Bs finally put one in :r

[icehog3]

Yup, Bruins, Habs and Pens seem to be the best of the East so far, though I am impressed by the starts by the Leafs and Sens as well.

[AdamJoshua]

The Bs for better or worse have a lot of games in hand over everyone, they have I think 17 games in march so a real rough stretch but they have a good chance of running away with the East. It also helps to have the best PK in the league...but almost the bottom on PP .. go figure.

The habs look real good but they aren't the same problem they were for us in decades past .. *sigh* so many playoffs lost ...

[icehog3]

They had PP goals in 4 of the last 6 coming iinto today, Adam, so I think that is rounding into form. Charra is a beast on the PK.

Running away with the East though? I don't know....time will tell.

[AdamJoshua]

4 of the last 6 yet still 26th in the league, hopefully like you said now they are clicking and it will build.

How can you not love Big Zee's spin around and backhand goal the other night was amazing, for a guy that some nights can't even get a crisp pass off, to move that way was just something to see.

[icehog3]

Even a blind squirrel finds a nut once in a while, Adam. ;) :r

[Ahbroody]

Sharks going to try to win 2 straight tonight. Dont know if they remember how to do that. Team has been brutal of late. PP is something like 3 for 55. Upside is they have had the wings number for a while and the wings played a physical game last night.

[357]

Sharks going to try to win 2 straight tonight. Dont know if they remember how to do that. Team has been brutal of late. PP is something like 3 for 55. Upside is they have had the wings number for a while and the wings played a physical game last night.

Wings are bipolar as of late. Hopefully the realignment talk will put a spring in their step. :noon

[icehog3]

Wings - Sharks should be a great game, looking forward to it.

Blues will be gunning to break the Hawks' streak, should be a good game as well.