NHL 2009-10 Thread

[Toronto]

OK, time for a clean slate. The Leafs don't suck yet, NBC hasn't forced us to suck Sidney Crosby's balls yet, and Detroit hasn't gotten 140 points yet.

Oh, and Redfield T. Baum does suck. That one we can conclude. :thumbsup

[t1tan5]

Let's start with some predictions:

Western Conference:
1. Chicago
2. Vancouver
3. Anaheim
4. Detroit
5. San Jose
6. Calgary
7. St. Louis
8. Minnesota

Eastern Conference
1. Pittsburgh
2. Boston
3. Washington
4. Philadelphia
5. New Jersey
6. Montreal
7. Carolina
8. Ottawa

Leafs just miss the playoffs. They just don't have the offensive power or the goaltending to make it. Defensively, they have one of the best corps in the league, though.

[Toronto]

1. Detroit
2. San Jose
3. Vancouver
4. Chicago
5. Anaheim
6. Calgary
7. St. Louis
8. (gulp) Los Angeles (they gotta break through one of these years)

1. Washington
2. Pittsburgh
3. Boston
4. New Jersey
5. Carolina
6. Buffalo
7. Philadelphia
8. Toronto (screw it!!!!)
8a. Because I know the Leafs are a stretch, I'll say Montreal for realism.

As an aside, Not a fan of the Habs moves - Gionta, Cammalleri and especially Gomez. Not sure why Hal Gill was targeted instead of Beauchemin. A big if on Price as well. Also, I watched Pat Quinn own Jacques Martin for years, and I never thought Quinn was that great either. Your team is almost impossible to prognosicate.

[t1tan5]

I wanted Beauchemin, too, but it wasn't Gill over Beauchemin. In the end, the salaries amount to Gill + Mara over Beauchemin. I think Gainey went for depth over a single talent, although I still would have preferred the talent. I did not like the Gomez move initially as well, but seeing him play in the pre-season is quickly changing my mind. We have not had a centre that could execute a zone entry like Gomez does in a long time. I'm really liking his play. He's fast and he's excellent defensively. I've always liked Gionta from his NJ days and his performance this pre-season is only solidifying that. Cam, I'm not to sure about. He's been dinged up and has this habit of alternating bad and amazing seasons.

[Jones31]

Chicago doesn't have the goaltending to be a top 3 seed, not with Huet.

Western Conference
1. San Jose
2. Detroit
3. Vancouver
4. Anaheim
5. Calgary
6. St. Louis
7. Chicago
8. Dallas

Eastern
1. Boston
2. Washington
3. Pittsburgh
4. Philadelphia
5. New Jersey
6. Toronto
7. Montreal
8. Tampa Bay

[t1tan5]

Chicago doesn't have the goaltending to be a top 3 seed, not with Huet.

Western Conference
1. San Jose
2. Detroit
3. Vancouver
4. Anaheim
5. Calgary
6. St. Louis
7. Chicago
8. Dallas

Eastern
1. Boston
2. Washington
3. Pittsburgh
4. Philadelphia
5. New Jersey
6. Toronto
7. Montreal
8. Tampa Bay

Interesting choice. They're going to have an amazing Flying Frenchmen line and their defense is surely improved with the additions of Hedman and Ohlund. I do question their depth, though. They lack it both at D and at Forward. I think this will the reason they won't make the playoffs.

[Jones31]

I know it's a stretch, just wanting to see Mike Smith take his team to the playoffs.

[don28]

Pekka Rinne with an 0.800 save percentage in preseason? What is it with Nashville goalies not being able to keep their previous season's success? Does Dan Ellis reclaim the starting role at some point?

Anyway, it looks like Nashville will come up short again in the quest for a playoff birth. They are more like a good AHL team than an NHL team in reality. Hoping for the best, expecting a lot less.

[Jones31]

There defense with what I thought it would be... after Weber/Suter not that good. Pekka has been looking like a sieve in his time in net. The sophmore curse strikes again. I wouldn't mind Ellis showing he's a good goaltender again.

[Toronto]

More Fearless Predictions.

Hart - Ovechkin
Vezina - Luongo
Art Ross - Crosby (ugh)
Norris - Chara
Calder - Tavares, although I remain convinced Duchesne is gonna be a better pro.

Best under the radar UFA signing - Mathieu Schneider to VAN
Most overpaid UFA - Cammallari - MTL

Worst trade - Pronger to the Flyers. Sorry, but he ain't worth what they paid, and with Ray Emery as their projected starter? Not a believer.


Weirdest sight - Kovalev in Sens uniform

[Predarat]

Yes i've got a bad feeling about the Preds season this year, I wish they would do something to get the team going.

[t1tan5]

Hart - Ovechkin
Vezina - Brodeur
Art Ross - Malkin
Norris - Bouwmeester
Calder - Tavares just because there's nobody else.

Best under the radar UFA signing - Tanguay to TB (is that under the radar?)
Most overpaid UFA - Gaborik - NYR because he'll play like 5 games

Worst trade - Heatley to SJ from the Ottawa perspective. They got fleeced.


Weirdest sight - Kovalev in Sens uniform as well as Koivu in a Ducks uni. Weird.

[Toronto]

Breaking news, looks like Baum has rejected both bids...

details to follow...

[Jones31]

The ruling.

http://docs.bmcgroup.com/phoenixcoyotes/docs/azb_2-09-bk-9488_1017.pdf

[Toronto]

The ruling.

http://docs.bmcgroup.com/phoenixcoyotes/docs/azb_2-09-bk-9488_1017.pdf

From Baum's ruling, are are the financials of the Coyotes.




Deficit/NO Equity Operating Loss Total Loss
2004 $258, 830,000 $49, 425, 000 $75, 352, 000

2005 $309, 505, 000 $26, 786, 000 $50, 675, 0000

2006 $384, 848, 000 $31, 410, 000 $75, 343, 000

2007 $36, 854, 000 $107, 763, 000 $117, 175, 000

2008 $108, 985, 000 $54, 817, 000 $72, 131, 000


I don't know how Bill Daly or Gary Bettman can say hockey works in that market and keep a straight face.

Basillie has thrown in the towel.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Jim Balsillie statement on court ruling re: Phoenix Coyotes



TORONTO (September 30, 2009) – The following statement regarding the court ruling in the case of the NHL’s Phoenix Coyotes bankruptcy proceeding was issued tonight by Jim Balsillie in response to media inquiries:



“From the beginning, my attempt to relocate the Coyotes to Hamilton has been about Canadian hockey fans and Canadian hockey. It was a chance to realize a dream. All I wanted was a fair chance to bring a seventh NHL team to Canada, to serve the best unserved hockey fans in the world. I believe I got that chance. I respect the court’s decision, and I will not be putting forward an appeal.”



“Nobody can deny that we are now a big step closer to having a seventh NHL team in Canada. It doesn’t matter who owns that team. When that day comes, I will be the first in line to buy a ticket to the home opener.”



“I want to take this opportunity to thank my family for all their love and support. I also want to thank the more than 200,000 fans who supported the bid online and the countless others who contacted me personally to show their support. This bid always was about the game we all love.”

[don28]

If Balsillie would not have tried the end around in acquiring Pittsburgh and Nashville, he would have had a team and probably been able to move them to Hamilton in time. Instead, he was hard-headed and confrontational.

[Toronto]

If Balsillie would not have tried the end around in acquiring Pittsburgh and Nashville, he would have had a team and probably been able to move them to Hamilton in time. Instead, he was hard-headed and confrontational.

I would be happy if both Bettman and Basillie both disappeared from the NHL landscape forever.

[DelawareTitans]

Go Oilers!

[Hookem Horns]

Wow, no one has the Rangers making the playoffs. As a Rangers fan I have no idea what they will be like this year, however I would be surprised if they miss the playoffs. Henrik Lundqvist is one of the best goalies in the league.

[Toronto]

Wow, no one has the Rangers making the playoffs. As a Rangers fan I have no idea what they will be like this year, however I would be surprised if they miss the playoffs. Henrik Lundqvist is one of the best goalies in the league.

I don't think anyone has any clue what to make of the Rangers for good reason. Their biggest signing was a player who has all the tools, but cannot stay healthy.

Tortorella is an interesting coach who I love for his candor, but his passion gets tuned out fast, I give him 2 years tops before the team turns on him.

I'm doing Caps/Bruins for Sportsnet tonight and couldn't be happier - watching the best player in the league and getting paid to do it. :)

[Jones31]

It's hockey o'clock!

[Toronto]

LMAO at the brilliance of Ovechkin. Man is a sick sick hockey player.

Leafs/Habs was a terrific game, Leafs definately faster and tougher, think Toskala may play himself out of a job by the quarter pole. Doesn't make enough clutch stops

[ZachLV27]

Luc Robitaille, Rob Blake, and Wayne Gretzky are going to lead the Kings to a championship this year!

I'm a couple decades late and it never happened but those are some of the last recognizable names I can name from the Kings. It has been quite a while since I seriously followed them. Since then their management has shown just about the same amount of interest.

I'll loosely follow the NHL again this year like I normally do but still wont have any real allegiances. I'll most likely root for guys like Ovechkin and Crosby (a lot of NHL fans don't seem to like him but I think he is fun to watch) and just keep hoping for exciting games.

[Jones31]

Did someone forget to tell the Sharks it's October and not April?

[Jones31]

Pekka Rinne with an 0.800 save percentage in preseason? What is it with Nashville goalies not being able to keep their previous season's success? Does Dan Ellis reclaim the starting role at some point?

Anyway, it looks like Nashville will come up short again in the quest for a playoff birth. They are more like a good AHL team than an NHL team in reality. Hoping for the best, expecting a lot less.

Well Ellis is starting for the Preds against Dallas tonight.

[don28]

Well Ellis is starting for the Preds against Dallas tonight.

I had a hunch it would be Ellis between his record against Dallas and Rinne's shaky preseason.

[Jones31]

The question is do you keep him in or go right back to Rinne on Thursday. Wait don't answer that, this is Trotz we are talking about.

[don28]

The question is do you keep him in or go right back to Rinne on Thursday. Wait don't answer that, this is Trotz we are talking about.

Play alternating goalies like the Minnesota Wild used to do? :unsure

[Jones31]

Didn't they go to the Conf finals that year?

[don28]

Didn't they go to the Conf finals that year?

Yeah, I think that was the year Anaheim won the Cup.

With all the holes this team has (especially offensively), alernating goalies isn't going to hurt them. If someone emerges as a clear cut #1, ride him until he collapses.

[Jones31]

Nah that was 2003 when they lost the Cup.

[t1tan5]

It's not too late to start up a hockey fantasy league on Yahoo. Anyone up for it?

[Toronto]

It's not too late to start up a hockey fantasy league on Yahoo. Anyone up for it?

I'm in 3 already - I just won't give this the attention it deserves/warrants

[Hookem Horns]

I watched the Rangers tonight. They actually looked pretty impressive to me. The PP looked better tonight than it did at anytime last season.

The downer for me is I left Directv and went back to cable and our cable provider does not offer NHL Center Ice in HD. Directv had almost every game in HD. However if I still had DTV I wouldn't have Versus or ESPN2 right now so I guess I can live without the HD for now.

Anyway, it's great to have the NHL back.

[t1tan5]

Washington looks scary good this year. Ovechkin is just tearing up the league (as if he didn't before!).

[Jones31]

Canes lose Erik Cole for 4-6 weeks fractured lower leg.

[Toronto]

Did the Canucks game, Luongo looks awful - Team Canada can't be happy seeing him play like this - he's too deep in his net and not seeing the puck well right now.

As for Ovie, I did their season opener, and I would be happy if I did all 82 of his games - he's so much fun to watch that it's silly. He has singlehandly saved hockey in DC, and made it the one 'must see' sport there. They now goe 3 lines deep, if they can stay healthy and not peak early, they may have the horses. Still need better goaltending though, they may need to make a big trade for that piece. Varlomov and Theodore just won't be enough in crunchtime.

I want Ovie to threaten the 50 goals in 50 games mark - he's got the ability to do it, and would be a great boost for a league that has had a disgusting off-season.

[Hookem Horns]

I'm doing Caps/Bruins for Sportsnet tonight and couldn't be happier - watching the best player in the league and getting paid to do it. :)

Toronto, what do you do for Sportsnet?

BTW, I just created a sub forum for hockey on Texans Talk. Feel free to chime in.

[Toronto]

Toronto, what do you do for Sportsnet?

BTW, I just created a sub forum for hockey on Texans Talk. Feel free to chime in.

Hey, will check it out!

Duties?

1) I put together highlight packs for our "Connected" news shows. My assignments typically are the larger ones - Leafs or another other Cdn. hockey team, MLB playoffs, bigger NFL games, the golf majors, etc. My biggest moment came when I was assigned Game 7 of the Stanley Cup final.

Basically I watch the game in realtime like you, but am clipping segments I feel are worthy of being in the 'pack' which will have anywhere between 30 seconds and 5 minutes of airtime on the show(s). I work with the editor to ensure he's got the right second/third looks as well as any good reax (coach yelling etc.) to add to the moment.

I also assist on the sports ticker, entering all the data that occured in the day. (Crabtree signs 6 yr deal etc.)

Other duties include assigning gameday feeds for all games, as well as organizing the night's duties for the Associate Producer that is in charge of the 'highlight factory."

It's a great job, just the hours are hell and I took a major paycut to do what I love. Thankfully my wife was on board with the decision.

2 years ago? I was in IT sales.

[SwissTitansFan]

Preds beat Colorado in the home-opener 3:2

Good job.....GOOOO PREDS...!!!

[t1tan5]

Hey Toronto, can you punch Nick Kypreos in the face for me?

[Jones31]

Wings lose Franzen for 4 months (Torn ACL)

[don28]

It's nice to see Dan Ellis play 2 good games to start the season. Hopefully Rinne continues the trend against Buffalo.

Also good to see Tavares playing well for the Islanders. If someone else could chip in a goal, they might win one.

[Jones31]

Official List of Hat Tricks (http://twitpic.com/kw07w)

[Toronto]

Hey Toronto, can you punch Nick Kypreos in the face for me?

I can't believe I am saying this, but I contractually can't comment on any Sportsnet talent. :doh

[t1tan5]

I can't believe I am saying this, but I contractually can't comment on any Sportsnet talent. :doh

Good thing he's not a "talent" then.

[titanup23]

It's nice to see Dan Ellis play 2 good games to start the season. Hopefully Rinne continues the trend against Buffalo.

Also good to see Tavares playing well for the Islanders. If someone else could chip in a goal, they might win one.

Pekka looked great last night and made some unbelieveable saves. The lone goal looked like a lucky one if you ask me.

I'll be back tomorrow night in sec 208

[SwissTitansFan]

There's something in the air in Nashville....

The Preds just lost at home against Edmonton 6:1....

[don28]

There's something in the air in Nashville....

The Preds just lost at home against Edmonton 6:1....

Yeah, bad defense + bad offense = royal suckage.

At least the Predators have won 2 games. It's sad that the undertalented hockey team is currently better than the more talented football team.

[Yvette]

I'll be back tomorrow night in sec 208
It was great seeing you again! I didn't know you had not met Don28 or I would have introduced you -- he was sitting next to me. Oh, and that offer stands if I get another opportunity ;)

Anyway, not so sure I should attend any more games because they always lose!

[Jones31]

Well they are pulling the same :fail from Monday tonight so it's not you.



Although I kinda like seeing Dallas crush them.

[Toronto]

This Leafs team just frigging sucks, and to add insult to injury Boston owns their 2010 1st rounder, which stands a very good chance of being a top 5 pick.

Kessel better be a gift from the gods, otherwise Burke may have traded away a bigtime shot at Taylor Hall.

Man did the hockey pundits overrate Komisarek and it appears Beauchemin is simply meh without a Pronger/Niedermeyer on his other side.

This is just terrible, between the Leafs and Titans I can't buy one lousy win. Worst start in franchise history is now official. Lovely.

[Hookem Horns]

This Leafs team just frigging sucks, and to add insult to injury Boston owns their 2010 1st rounder, which stands a very good chance of being a top 5 pick.

Kessel better be a gift from the gods, otherwise Burke may have traded away a bigtime shot at Taylor Hall.

Man did the hockey pundits overrate Komisarek and it appears Beauchemin is simply meh without a Pronger/Niedermeyer on his other side.

This is just terrible, between the Leafs and Titans I can't buy one lousy win. Worst start in franchise history is now official. Lovely.

Yeah, the Leafs aren't looking good. I just finished watching the game. The Rangers on the other hand haven't lost since the opening night vs Pittsburgh. I don't know if they'll keep winning like this however I can say they haven't been this fun to watch since 1994 when they won the Cup. I didn't realize just how good Gaborik is. If (big IF) that guy can stay healthy the Rangers are going to really contend this year.

BTW, what do you think of the 19 year old Del Zotto kid? This guy came out of nowhere and is the biggest surprise of the season so far. I didn't have the sound up on the game however I was watching the CBC feed and noticed they kept showing his parents. If he keeps playing lights out I wonder if he will have a shot at making Team Canada for the Olympics, or is that roster already determined?

[Toronto]

Yeah, the Leafs aren't looking good. I just finished watching the game. The Rangers on the other hand haven't lost since the opening night vs Pittsburgh. I don't know if they'll keep winning like this however I can say they haven't been this fun to watch since 1994 when they won the Cup. I didn't realize just how good Gaborik is. If (big IF) that guy can stay healthy the Rangers are going to really contend this year.

BTW, what do you think of the 19 year old Del Zotto kid? This guy came out of nowhere and is the biggest surprise of the season so far. I didn't have the sound up on the game however I was watching the CBC feed and noticed they kept showing his parents. If he keeps playing lights out I wonder if he will have a shot at making Team Canada for the Olympics, or is that roster already determined?

Nowhere? Dude was a first round pick and has been highly touted since he was 14. what's rare is that he's a Sather pick that doesn't appear to be a bust. He's a Toronto kid hence the attention from CBC - he bought 70 tickets last night, and at the ACC, that means he blew 4 billion bucks.

[Hookem Horns]

Nowhere? Dude was a first round pick and has been highly touted since he was 14. what's rare is that he's a Sather pick that doesn't appear to be a bust. He's a Toronto kid hence the attention from CBC - he bought 70 tickets last night, and at the ACC, that means he blew 4 billion bucks.

Nowhere for me that is. I didn't see a lot of talk about him on Rangers boards during the offseason. Personally, I didn't know much about him until this season.

[Toronto]

Everyone at my studio cringed after watching this hit.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qeN3QTw8iz4&feature=related

[titanup23]

Everyone at my studio cringed after watching this hit.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qeN3QTw8iz4&feature=related

So did I, vicious hit.

Preds up 2-0 after 1. Hopefully they can hold onto the led tonight and not give it up like they did in Ottawa

Edit: Now 2-1

[titanup23]

Wow, Wild just scored 3 goals in 3 shots and 2:18. Pathetic

[Jones31]

Attendance 12,520 at Sommet Center, that was the emptiest I've seen that place on a Saturday night ever.

This town is failing as a hockey town.

[t1tan5]

Quebec Predators?

[Jones31]

Quebec Coyotes?

6,495

[don28]

Attendance 12,520 at Sommet Center, that was the emptiest I've seen that place on a Saturday night ever.

This town is failing as a hockey town.


Quebec Predators?

Hockey attendance will pick up once football season is over. It happens that way every season. Happened in Florida as well. Football is king in the South; hockey right now is just a diversion.

The Predators will be all right as long as the current ownership situation remains unchanged. If anything bad happens there, then it could be possible to watch them move to Kansas City/Hamilton/Oklahoma City/Winnipeg/Quebec City/INSERT CITY NAME HERE.

[Jones31]

Must have been a late arriving crowd.... as in after the 1st.

Speaking of epic fail here are the early returns in Phoenix.

17532
6899
9162
11938
7968
6495
5855

They have lost over $10M since July 1. They won't come close to sniffing revenue sharing at this rate.

[don28]

Must have been a late arriving crowd.... as in after the 1st.

Speaking of epic fail here are the early returns in Phoenix.

17532
6899
9162
11938
7968
6495
5855

They have lost over $10M since July 1. They won't come close to sniffing revenue sharing at this rate.

Lack of direction and uncertainty of how long they stay/if they stay is doing Phoenix in. If they could muster up a local ownership group similar to the Predators, they might get respectable attendance again.

[Toronto]

Must have been a late arriving crowd.... as in after the 1st.

Speaking of epic fail here are the early returns in Phoenix.

17532
6899
9162
11938
7968
6495
5855

They have lost over $10M since July 1. They won't come close to sniffing revenue sharing at this rate.

Maclean's Magazine up here had a good look at the war between Basillie and the NHL - pretty evenhanded - Basillie did a HELL of a job making himself completely untrustworthy, even if Bettman/Daly don't exactly represent the type of partner I'd want in the business world.

[Jones31]

Preds have dropped the Sommet Group as the sponsor on the building.
Non-payment of contractual fees.

[titanup23]

Got this from the leaf chronicle's site

http://www.theleafchronicle.com/article/20091125/NEWS01/91125015/Predators+sue+company++end+naming+deal+for+Nashvil le+arena+

[t1tan5]

Must have been a late arriving crowd.... as in after the 1st.

Speaking of epic fail here are the early returns in Phoenix.

17532
6899
9162
11938
7968
6495
5855

They have lost over $10M since July 1. They won't come close to sniffing revenue sharing at this rate.

The saddest thing is that the team is actually all right.

[Jones31]

An interesting tidbit to come out in the whole Sommet/Preds issue. The head of the ownership group hasn't paid his 2007 taxes and the IRS has a 3.3M lien on him.

[SwissTitansFan]

PREDATORS win (again)......!!!!

4:3 in OT vs. Avalanche in Denver.....


YEEEEEEEEEEEEEEESSSSSS.....!!!!

[SwissTitansFan]

An interesting tidbit to come out in the whole Sommet/Preds issue. The head of the ownership group hasn't paid his 2007 taxes and the IRS has a 3.3M lien on him.

Ohhhh....ok...let's name it now "Nashville Arena" or "Music City Arena"....and get over it....

that re-naming BS is confusing....

[titanup23]

PREDATORS win (again)......!!!!

4:3 in OT vs. Avalanche in Denver.....


YEEEEEEEEEEEEEEESSSSSS.....!!!!

they tried to give it away but that goal by Shea towards the end of the second was BIG! All the momentum had swung Colorado's way till that goal. Good win on the road!

[Jones31]

Ohhhh....ok...let's name it now "Nashville Arena" or "Music City Arena"....and get over it....

that re-naming BS is confusing....

Unfortunately teams need the money that comes with it.

[Sect309Fan]

It's interesting that the Preds are on a long winning streak like the Titans. They both were terrible to start the season, and now both are playing well.

[Jones31]

Minnesota Wild need some new gear (http://twitpic.com/photos/boomer960)

[Jones31]

Shea Weber named to the Canadian Olympic Team

[don28]

Shea Weber named to the Canadian Olympic Team

Glad he's getting the recognition and respect from his peers.

On another note, anyone want to go to the Anaheim game January 2? I'm itching for some hockey action.

[Toronto]

Shea Weber named to the Canadian Olympic Team

Deserved the nod bigtime.

[don28]

Anyone else see the hit Dion Phaneuf put on Anze Kopitar last night? Definitely looked to me as if he made no effort to get the puck, and was looking to obliterate Kopitar instead. You should see the war of words at http://hfboards.com regarding this hit. Flames fans trying to defend it, other fans questioning Phaneuf's manhood.

[Jones31]

He'll get a few games for that, saw his post game interview also.. he had enough trouble trying to defend his action. Guess you can't shovel enough bull**** to cover that.

[Toronto]

He'll get a few games for that, saw his post game interview also.. he had enough trouble trying to defend his action. Guess you can't shovel enough bull**** to cover that.

That hit was vile - enough to make me wonder if no-touch icing should be a part of the NHL. Phaneuf made it clear he didn't give a **** about the puck, that was about decapitating Kopitar, pure and simple.

I'm glad Canada passed on him for the Olympics - he plays too reckless and his physical play isn't consistent - he'll make a killer bodycheck or hit, but other times makes an idiotic attempt at a hit that bites his team in the ass.

Going with Doughty over him/Bouwmeester was an awesome decision IMO.

Last year's winter classic was a much better game, but Fenway was an incredible venue. The viz in HD was surreal it was so damn good.

[Jones31]

Yeah it was pretty much a snoozer to watch for me. Flyers gave that one away.

[t1tan5]

I don't really know anything about the next winter classic, but I think Minnesota should host it. They really love their hockey over there. I mean, they're practically Canadian in their love for hockey. The new Twins stadium will be completed by then, so it could be held there.

[Jones31]

I'm done with the game being in a baseball stadium. The sightlines the last 2 years were horrible.

[t1tan5]

I'm done with the game being in a baseball stadium. The sightlines the last 2 years were horrible.

I agree that football stadia would be better, but the Vikings still play in the Metrodome, so playing an outdoor game there would be impossible. Another candidate, with your criteria, would be New Giants Stadium. Rangers vs. Caps perhaps?

[don28]

Alexei Kovalev turns back the clock with 4 goals against the Flyers today. Interesting game as both starting goaltenders were pulled.

[Toronto]

I'm done with the game being in a baseball stadium. The sightlines the last 2 years were horrible.

Fenway was better than Wrigley...

I'm done with the over the top baseball puns from NBC/CBC.

My guess is that if Yankee Stadium doesn't get it, Heinz Field does and we get Sid vs Ovie.

[Jones31]

USA defeats Canada 6-5 in OT to win the World Junior Championship.

[BoroTitan]

Went to my first preds game in over a year, and the sommet center seemed like it has quietened down a notch. What happened to all the chants and everything?

[Jones31]

When the team doesn't show up, usually the crowd doesn't either. But yeah it's not nearly as loud as it used to be.

[Toronto]

We in Toronto can only dream of a team as well discplined, coached and overachieving like the Preds.

Can say this, you're frigging doomed with Ron Wilson as HC for the Olympics. I used to think he was a good coach, but ANY TEAM that has a PK of under 70% has a ****ty coach and scheme, end of story. A team of pluggers and has-beens with a great coach would do better than that.

[Jones31]

He hasn't been a good coach since 03-04 IMO. He got more out of that Sharks team than he ever did with the talent laden teams he had post lockout.

[Toronto]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LqBHlA9Yp3I

The ugliest moment in any hockey league this year. I hope Cormier is thrown in jail for this and never plays hockey again.

It drives me nuts that the Don Cherrys of the world are front and center basically begging players to 'be tough.' This wasn't tough, this was felony assault.

[Jones31]

Saw that, looks like he's got a history for elbow cheapshots.

[Toronto]

Saw that, looks like he's got a history for elbow cheapshots.

yeah, did it in the world juniors too, just not as vicious as this one. That kid he assaulted has legitimate brain trauma over this - If they don't have him in handcuffs something is truly wrong.

I still feel Bertuzzi, Crawford and Burke all never properly answered for Steve Moore's broken neck either, and maybe thats why the Cormiers of the world keep doing it, because they don't have true consequences to face.

[don28]

yeah, did it in the world juniors too, just not as vicious as this one. That kid he assaulted has legitimate brain trauma over this - If they don't have him in handcuffs something is truly wrong.

I still feel Bertuzzi, Crawford and Burke all never properly answered for Steve Moore's broken neck either, and maybe thats why the Cormiers of the world keep doing it, because they don't have true consequences to face.

It seemed to me that a lot of Canadians (correct me if I'm wrong) thought that Steve Moore was a whining baby for filing the lawsuits that he did. I feel that he was right, that the NHL was too soft on Bertuzzi. Dino Ciccarelli did more prison time than Bertuzzi, and his hit wasn't as vicious.

[Toronto]

It seemed to me that a lot of Canadians (correct me if I'm wrong) thought that Steve Moore was a whining baby for filing the lawsuits that he did. I feel that he was right, that the NHL was too soft on Bertuzzi. Dino Ciccarelli did more prison time than Bertuzzi, and his hit wasn't as vicious.

I'd call it more of a solid minority. The majority felt Moore was completely correct. The reason why? Not over the incident, but the fact that Moore had already faught and held his own to 'play by the code.' The Canadian mentality on hockey sometimes escapes me, because I am not a big fan of hockey violence.

That wasn't good enough for the Canucks, who basically got what they wanted, which was to hurt Moore and hurt him bad.

[Jones31]

KVB and Cortland Finnegan sighting at the game tonight.

[don28]

KVB and Cortland Finnegan sighting at the game tonight.

Apparently their defensive play this season has "inspired" the Predators defensive play tonight. :whistling:rant

[Jones31]

NHL NEGOTIATING SALE OF LIGHTNING (http://www.tsn.ca/nhl/story/?id=308043)

[Toronto]

Huge trade this morning by the Leafs and Flames...

Phaneuf/Sjostrom to Toronto for Stajan, Hagman, Ian White and Jamal Mayers.

Guess Burke had enough of watching his team play 2 and 3 goal leads, including last night's humiliating blow-up of a 3-0 lead.

[Jones31]

Also
To Toronto JS Giguere
To Anaheim Vesa Toskala Jason Blake.

Leafs gave up I think I saw over 50 goals scored by those players and gained 12 back.
Giguere hasn't played well the past 2 years, unless the Monster is going to shoulder the load, I wouldn't expect an immediate return on this trade in TO.

[Toronto]

Also
To Toronto JS Giguere
To Anaheim Vesa Toskala Jason Blake.

Leafs gave up I think I saw over 50 goals scored by those players and gained 12 back.
Giguere hasn't played well the past 2 years, unless the Monster is going to shoulder the load, I wouldn't expect an immediate return on this trade in TO.

They wanted to dump the Blake contract forever.

My guess is this sets them up to take a run at Kovalchuk.

[don28]

In a surprise to no one, Scottie Upshall Torn ACL (http://www.nhl.com/ice/news.htm?id=515684)

[Toronto]

Also
To Toronto JS Giguere
To Anaheim Vesa Toskala Jason Blake.

Leafs gave up I think I saw over 50 goals scored by those players and gained 12 back.
Giguere hasn't played well the past 2 years, unless the Monster is going to shoulder the load, I wouldn't expect an immediate return on this trade in TO.

Not a single player other than Ian White and maybe Hagman was playing near an acceptable level of their pay. Jason Blake was an awful contract, and Stajan was never going to be a #1 center. Mayers was a 4th line player that asked for a trade and would have fetched a 4th round pick at best.

As a Leaf fan, I'm fine with the moves today - we sure as hell weren't built to win with the roster as constructed, but with Phaneuf and Kessel, and not trading away their top two prospects (Kadri/Schenn) Burke did well here to gut a terrible team and have a few core assets. Watching Toskala refuse to steal a game for them was so frustrating the last two years. The second a Leaf turned the puck over, it was sure to be in the net, because the Leaf goaltending was so atrocious.

What is for sure is that Burke isn't done. He has way too many defensemen and will trade 2 of them. If Finger can't be traded, he will eat the contract and ship him to the AHL. The other two defenseman that IMO is on the block are Kaberle or Schenn, no matter how many times Burke swears he's not trading him. Schenn and Kaberle may be the ticket to getting Kovalchuk, who has Waddell tied up in knots because he can't resign him, but he wants Ovechkin money so other teams aren't lining up with offers. Toronto will be the dumbass team that steps up IMO.

I could take three hours to compile a list of the terrible decisions the Leafs have made over the last 10 years, but today's trades won't be on the list.

Added bonus, more visits to Toronto for Elisha Cuthbert. Let the stalking begin.:toast

[Toronto]

In a surprise to no one, Scottie Upshall Torn ACL (http://www.nhl.com/ice/news.htm?id=515684)

Amazing that the team's leading scorer had 18 goals yet they would make the playoffs today. Dave Tippett is coach of the year by a country mile.

[Jones31]

I love how Tippett has come out smelling like a rose, after all the **** last year in Dallas.

[Jones31]

Another day another trade
To NYR: Olli Jokinen, Brandon Prust
To Calgary: Ales Kotalik, Chris Higgins

[RallyRedBmore]

coming soon to an nhl center near u...the nhl leading washington capitals!!!!

they might make it to the finals this year! need to fix the PP kill on the road though, they are terrible

[Jones31]

Right up until they choke against the Penguins.....

[kfmac70]

I'm not a huge hockey fan though I follow it casually. Monday night, we saw a collection of men (with a whole lot of arrogance and foreign accents) outside the entrance lines at Sommet Center waiting to get into WWE Raw.

I'm telling you, these guys were Class A jerks in their behavior and arrogance. Very cocky. Just by the accents alone, I thought they had to be hockey players but I didn't recognize any of them and when I looked on the Predators roster, also didn't see anyone familiar. So then I checked the schedule and saw Phoenix the next night and bingo...there's my boys.

About seven players from the roster and Bissonnette was the ring leader. Had I known who they were, I would not have approached them for autographs anyway. Their behavior really put me off.

Thank God for celebrities in Nashville who have some class.

[RallyRedBmore]

Right up until they choke against the Penguins.....

not this year baby! :D

[Jones31]

Jose Threeormore!








I'm bored

[Toronto]

Kovalchuk apparantly about to be traded, according to TSN/Sportsnet...

http://www.sportsnet.ca/hockey/2010/02/03/kovalchuk_trade_imminent/

http://www.tsn.ca/nhl/story/?id=308800

If Waddell's asking price is what's been reported (4 or 5 pieces) I wouldn't touch this guy with a ten foot pole. He's rumored to be asking for more $ per year than Ovechkin's current deal. If that's true, than his agent (Jay Grossman) might as well start packing his client's bags for a KHL market, because there isn't a NHL GM around stupid enough to give him that deal.

[don28]

Kovalchuk apparantly about to be traded, according to TSN/Sportsnet...

http://www.sportsnet.ca/hockey/2010/02/03/kovalchuk_trade_imminent/

http://www.tsn.ca/nhl/story/?id=308800

If Waddell's asking price is what's been reported (4 or 5 pieces) I wouldn't touch this guy with a ten foot pole. He's rumored to be asking for more $ per year than Ovechkin's current deal. If that's true, than his agent (Jay Grossman) might as well start packing his client's bags for a KHL market, because there isn't a NHL GM around stupid enough to give him that deal.

No matter the asking price, I wonder if Kovalchuk is even worth adding to a team. When he's not scoring goals, he seems completely worthless. He won't hit people like Ovechkin. He couldn't check his baggage at the airport, let alone back check during his shifts. Atlanta looks like a completely uninspired bunch with him still there. I bet Atlanta plays better once he's gone.

[Jones31]

I heard what they wanted from Nashville. Its something I could live with.

[RallyRedBmore]

the only person worth a contract like OV's is.....OV.

btw jones, jose has been pretty decent this last month.... i still prefer varly but if it works, it works..... not like we can afford a decent goalie anyway....all our money is tied into offense and mike green, lol

[don28]

I heard what they wanted from Nashville. Its something I could live with.

What did they want?


the only person worth a contract like OV's is.....OV.

btw jones, jose has been pretty decent this last month.... i still prefer varly but if it works, it works..... not like we can afford a decent goalie anyway....all our money is tied into offense and mike green, lol

It's a lot to ask the Capitals to overcome their Pittsburgh curse and Theodore's goaltending in the same season.

[Toronto]

I heard what they wanted from Nashville. Its something I could live with.

The scuttlebutt is that Waddell is asking for Ryan Ellis or Colin Wilson and a 2010 1st.

I'd waste about .1 second before telling Waddell TGFH

[Jones31]

Erat, Blum, and a 1st.

I'd do it.

[Jones31]

Kovy turned down 12yrs, $101M from ATL.

http://www.sportingnews.com/blog/The_Grinder/entry/view/54444

[Jones31]

Dallas Stars are on the block now.

Hicks Sports Group today confirmed that Galatioto Sports Partners ("GSP") has been retained to examine and advise the Dallas Stars on the possibility of securing new investors or selling a majority stake in the Dallas Stars. Last month, HSG announced it had reached a definitive agreement to sell its major league baseball club, the Texas Rangers. Officials said the Stars are in a “position of strength” because of the team’s long-term success.

“While a sale is not a certainty,” said Jeff Cogen, president of the Dallas Stars, “it is a possibility, and Mr. Hicks has received numerous inquiries about the team. Those potential investors recognize that the Stars are a success story. We have the third best record in the NHL since 1996. If you look at the team, it has been built in the right way—building from within. It’s a role model, especially for the Sunbelt teams.”

The team’s general manager, Joe Nieuwendyk, echoed Cogen’s statement.

“I am not surprised there is interest in this franchise,” said Nieuwendyk. “I believe it is positioned for greatness for many years because of the youth in our system, our tradition of winning, and we have an established and enthusiastic fan base.”

[Toronto]

Kovy turned down 12yrs, $101M from ATL.

http://www.sportingnews.com/blog/The_Grinder/entry/view/54444

Yeah I saw that - based on those farked up demands, I'd run like the wind from this player/agent. Let the KHL have him.

[Jones31]

KHL couldn't sniff what he's asking.

[Toronto]

Looks like the Devils have decided to rent him...

Waiting for confirmation.

edit - done...

http://www.sportsnet.ca/hockey/2010/02/04/kovalchuk_offer/

Cormier, Bergfors, Oduya and 1st...

[don28]

That didn't hurt the Devils very much at all. If Kovalchuk actually decides to fit in, they could take it all.

[RallyRedBmore]

That didn't hurt the Devils very much at all. If Kovalchuk actually decides to fit in, they could take it all.

heheheh...they would actually have to beat the caps....12 in a row baby!

[Jones31]

Well hate to spoil that party but those 12 wins don't count toward playoff wins.

[Jones31]

In worthless news the Preds extend superwastepest Jordin Tootoo for 2 years.

[Toronto]

Brian Burke had one awful day. First his team blows a 2 goal lead with under 3minutes to play and loses in regulation. That in turn was the good part of his day.

His son Brendan (the one that was the subject of the ESPN story that he was gay) was killed in a car accident tonight in Indiana...

Thoughts/prayers. No dad should ever outlive his kid.

:cry

[RallyRedBmore]

and in meaningful news, the....caps win again!

[Jones31]

They talking about postponing the game Sunday?

[RallyRedBmore]

not yet.... wonder if they are kicking themselves for moving it back a few weeks ago... it was set for 2 PM faceoff, then i guess they figured no one would show up because of the superbowl so they moved it back to 12... they might move it back to 2 or 3...or postpone if the penguins cant waddle to the arena in the 2 1/2 feet of snow we are recieving right now...

[Jones31]

Atlanta is still waiting to fly out..... their game has been pushed back 30 minutes tonight, willing to bet it gets postponed. I think tomorrow won't happen in DC also.

[RallyRedBmore]

wow...what a game...what a win streak...and what a hat trick by OV...who needs crosby?!

[don28]

wow...what a game...what a win streak...and what a hat trick by OV...who needs crosby?!

Nice comeback by the Capitals. Theodore is going to make them exit the playoffs in the first round. They have got to upgrade the goaltending if they have Stanley Cup aspirations.

[RallyRedBmore]

yea, no ****.... been saying that since varly was injured... lol

[Toronto]

Nice comeback by the Capitals. Theodore is going to make them exit the playoffs in the first round. They have got to upgrade the goaltending if they have Stanley Cup aspirations.

Their problem is they don't have much in the cupboard to trade - and if they did who's on the market? I think the Leafs scooped a lot of teams by getting Giguere - he had the resume and was not playing a ton, so was fresh. All he's done is get back to back shutouts, and that's with a crummy team.

The only three goalies that I can think of that the Caps may want to make plays for are Turco (if available), Vokoun and Roloson.

[Jones31]

I think Florida said Vokoun wasn't available. Turco maybe. Marty Biron?

[Toronto]

I think Florida said Vokoun wasn't available. Turco maybe. Marty Biron?

Biron has no history of taking teams far in the playoffs IIRC. Roloson is compelling - would be cheaper and carried the Oil to the Final 3 years ago. They may have won if he hadn't gotten hurt too.

[Jones31]

He took the Flyers to the ECF's in 2007-08. Rolloson is 40 years old making 5M this year, not too sure he's on the cheap side.

[don28]

He took the Flyers to the ECF's in 2007-08. Rolloson is 40 years old making 5M this year, not too sure he's on the cheap side.

There's only one more year left on Roloson's contract, so it isn't too costly if the Isles wanted to trade him. I don't think the Isles are considering trading him due to the uncertainty of DiPietro's long-term health. Last year the Isles learned a painful lesson when he went down.

As an Isles fan, I would sure hope the Isles can get a solid prospect for Roloson if they decide to trade him. I'd rather they not trade him, but if the losing continues, they just might.

[RallyRedBmore]

nice "win" by the preds today..great game, saw it on center ice....i do love the shootout!

[Jones31]

Preds chairman David Freeman is stepping aside.
http://www.nashvillepost.com/news/2010/3/1/freeman_steps_aside_as_preds_chairman

[Toronto]

Well, if I am Peter Chiarelli I don't apologize to any Bruin fan today. He has Taylor Hall or Tyler Seguin lined up thanks to the Kessel deal. That will solve his issue requiring a top-tier forward.

Glad I had Team Canada win, because outside Kessel and Phaneuf, this Leaf team is just awful. And with no 1st rounder this year or next, I have to pray Burke hits a home run in free agency, because outside Tomas Kaberle, he has no tangible asset to trade. Going to get worse before it gets better for us long suffering Leaf fans.

[Jones31]

I didn't feel sorry for the Bruins today. Of course watching Dallas not be able to do anything was only slightly painful.

[Jones31]

Is wondering why I am torturing myself watching this atrocity known as Dallas Stars hockey........

[don28]

Is wondering why I am torturing myself watching this atrocity known as Dallas Stars hockey........

You're into pain. Just like I watch the New York Islanders and get a masterpiece performance against Chicago followed by fingerpainting against Atlanta.

[RallyRedBmore]

wow, what a game at verizon center tonight...varly looked terrible, but knuble and walker (great trade so far after one day!) kept us in it for the win! :D

[Jones31]

You're into pain. Just like I watch the New York Islanders and get a masterpiece performance against Chicago followed by fingerpainting against Atlanta.

I must be.... they are about to drive me back to the bottle....

[don28]

Thankfully, now I can watch ALL the games! I was beginning to sweat the playoffs if this kept up much longer.

[SwissTitansFan]

PREDATORS ARE IN THE PLAYOFFS...!!!!

They clinched it by beating the Red Wings in Detroit in overtime 4:3...!!!

YEEEEEESSSSSS.....!!!!

GOOOOO PREDS.....!!!!

[Sect309Fan]

It's interesting that in this final week of hockey, the Preds could finish as high as 4th and as low as 8th.

4th place: Preds win out, Phoenix loses all three games in regulation, LA loses at least one game in regulation or OT. Tiebreaker with Phoenix would go all the way to "goals scored", where Preds are currently ahead 221 to 215 (so Phoenix could still get it, with a lot of goals in their losses).

8th place: Preds lose out in regulation, Avalanche win their last three games, Kings get at least 2 points, and Red Wings get at least 3 points.

It's too hard to calculate 5th, 6th, and 7th, though that is where the Preds likely will slot themselves. They really want at least one win in their last two to prevent getting 8th.

[RallyRedBmore]

doesnt matter.... OV will hoist the cup this year along with a 3rd consecutive MVP!!! :D

o yea...and the presidents cup :D

[Jones31]

The chance of Nashville being the 8 seed is remote. Colorado won't pass Nashville they aren't playing well enough. A win in PHX will pretty much gaurantee them no worse than 6th.

Presidents Trophy doesn't mean anything, not many teams win both Presidents Trophy and the Stanley Cup in the same year. Only teams in recent history to do so.
2008 Red Wings
2002 Red Wings
2001 Avalanche
1999 Stars

It's rare for teams to accomplish both. Hasn't been done in the East since the 1994 Rangers.

[Toronto]

Enjoy the playoffs you turds. 5 years in a row we've failed to sniff the playoffs, hurts like hell. Only bright side is that at long last, we're one of the youngest and fastest teams in the league. Maybe we finally get it.

[Sect309Fan]

That was a bad loss last night for the Preds. The good news is that they can't fall to 8th. The bad news is that they can't control anything, so they could very well fall to 7th, even with a win in their final game. Right now, that would mean San Jose, which would be terrible for this team. Hopefully San Jose can retake first place in the conference (currently tied with Chicago, but have two fewer wins), and make it moot.

[Jones31]

If the Preds play SJ again.... I think I'll pass on watching being done in 5 games.

[Jones31]

Anyone think Mike Modano's final home game (possibly) have been scripted any better?

[Toronto]

The Sharks have a crappy playoff history...you didn't get to 100 points by accident. That is no gimme putt for them. I'd rather play the Sharks than the Hawks anyways. The Hawks are unstoppable if Niemi plays adequete.

Betwen CHI, SJ, VAN and DET, I'd go for SJ or VAN. IMO those teams match up poorest with the Preds

[Sect309Fan]

Unfortunately, the Sharks are like the Ravens. Whether they are better or not, they find a way to beat the Preds.

With the win last night over the Blues, anything could happen today. The worst thing that could happen would be for the Hawks to beat the Red Wings in OT. That would put the Hawks in first place, the Sharks in second, and push the Red Wings above the Preds in the standings. I am fine if the Red Wings win (reg or OT) or lose in regulation. Hopefully the Kings will lose on the road to Colorado (reg or OT) to keep the Preds no lower than 6th.

[Jones31]

Here's the complete list of scenarios:
__________________

LA W and DET W - 2 CHI vs 7 NSH

LA W and DET OT/SO L - 2 SJS vs 7 NSH

LA W and DET L - 3 VAN vs 6 NSH

LA L and DET W - 3 VAN vs 6 NSH

LA OT/SO L and DET W - 3 VAN vs 6 NSH

LA OT/SO L and DET OT/SO L - 3 VAN vs 6 NSH

LA L and DET OT/SO L - 3 VAN vs 6 NSH

LA OT/SO L and DET L - 4 PHX vs 5 NSH

LA L and DET L - 4 PHX vs 5 NSH

[Sect309Fan]

Scenario #1 it is. Preds vs. Blackhawks in round one. Should be a good series. Go Preds!

[don28]

Scenario #1 it is. Preds vs. Blackhawks in round one. Should be a good series. Go Preds!

It's a winnable series, since the Blackhawks goaltending isn't that great. Now, the Preds need to find a way to win at least one road playoff game for the first time in their history.

[Sect309Fan]

Game 1: Friday at Chicago, 7:30 p.m.
Game 2: Sunday at Chicago, 7:30 p.m.
Game 3: April 20 at Nashville, 8 p.m.
Game 4: April 22 at Nashville, 7:30 p.m.
Game 5: April 24 at Chicago, 2 p.m.*
Game 6: April 26 at Nashville, TBA*
Game 7: April 28 at Chicago, TBA*

[Jones31]

I want to know why the Friday start for this series.....

[Sect309Fan]

Probably because of all the conflicts with Bridgestone arena. They have bookings on Sat. 4/17, Wed. 4/21, Fri. 4/23, and Sat. 4/24. While there wouldn't be any Game 3 or Game 4 conflict if the series started on Wed (you could do a Sun-Tues at Bridgestone), there would be a Game 6 conflict.

[Parddy]

Toronto,

The Leafs must really stink because if the crappy Bruins can make the playoffs anybody can.... The B's are the WORST and most boring hockey team I have ever watched.

[RallyRedBmore]

and the caps loose to an inferior team in the playoffs...what a suprise...

[Jones31]

ZERO shots on goal for Ovechkin.

[Sect309Fan]

The road upsets are in full force this week. Let's hope the Preds can do it too.

[Toronto]

yup, they really stink, and what makes it even harder to swallow is that Kessel cost them the #2 overall pick, which will be either Taylor Hall or Tyler Seguin. Either way that's a monster price for Kessel, who now has to carry that weight on his shoulders. In fairness to the B's, missing Savard hurts.

[don28]

Preds win first road playoff game in their history, 4-1. Now if they can just take care of business at home....

[RallyRedBmore]

yea, we watched the preds game...awesome game... they have good defense :)

[RallyRedBmore]

wow.....what a caps game!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! ovie storms back with like 500 points, backstrom has a hat trick with the 3rd goal being the game winner in OT!!!!!!! take that charlie! (lol)

[Jones31]

Impressive comeback, but also funny how both 1 seeds are getting all they can handle by the 8 seeds.

[ZachLV27]

"Series Tied 1-1"

[Toronto]

Impressive comeback, but also funny how both 1 seeds are getting all they can handle by the 8 seeds.

The parity between 1 and 8 in the West is unreal. 7 of the 8 teams hit 100 points - I expect all 4 series to go at least 6 games.

We all knew the Caps achilles heel was stout defensive play and questionable goaltending. They're lucky the Habs aren't that good, because a better team defensively does not blow that game.

Been some damn good hockey so far, hope it continues.

[RallyRedBmore]

hmm...wonder if we can give the preds semin, a pick, and some cash for rinne??? lol

[Jones31]

http://sharkspage.com/galleries/2008_sharks_penguins1/images/sharks_pittsburgh20.jpg =
http://www.istockphoto.com/file_thumbview_approve/5389777/2/istockphoto_5389777-goat-with-a-bell-cartoon.jpg

[Sect309Fan]

I saw the highlights of that San Jose-Colorado game, and that end was just crazy. :crazy

How come San Jose looks terrible in the playoffs against every team but the Preds? This is certainly an exciting and unexpected first round of the playoffs so far.

[Jones31]

Because the Preds haven't learned the playoffs require a high level of play. Like last night, they had no jump, didn't crash the net, took poor shots, basically lollygagged for 60 minutes. Oh and Kevin Klein should never be on the PK again.

[RallyRedBmore]

but rinne kept them in the game with some awesome saves.... i was awake watching the san jose game.... what a finish, i think your inital post summed that up perfect charlie... lol

[RallyRedBmore]

wow...thats the caps team i thought we would see in game one..... caps for the cup! :D

[Jones31]

LOLuongo returned for the Nucks last night!

[SwissTitansFan]

Blackhawk vs. PREDATORS

ahmmmm...I don't get it...just surfed through the whole directv schedule and I couldn't find the game ANYWHERE....it should be on 644 (FS-TN) but instead they are showing Baseball...
GRRRRRRR.....Can anybody tell me what in Hockey-God's name is goin' on....???

GOOOOOOOOOOO PREDS....!!!!

[Jones31]

772

[SwissTitansFan]

WHAT A GREAT WIN.......GOOD JOB PREDS....Proud of ya....!!!

Lookin' forward to Thursday....3:1 sounds sooo damn sweet.....

GOOOOO PREDS....!!!

[Sect309Fan]

Great win for the Preds last night. I was a bit worried after all those early misses in the first period, but they came through for the win. Pekka is pretty awesome as well. :bowdown

Let's win this series!

[Jones31]

That's Pekka, mister....

[Sect309Fan]

Sorry about that. :doh

It appears people in Nashville don't quite understand satellite TV broadcasting of FSN channels. I was listening to the morning show on 104.5, and all these people were complaining about trying to watch the game.

Sure, it could be easier, but both Dish and DirecTv have all the different incarnations of FSN South, as opposed to cable, which just has the one applicable to Nashville viewers at the time. So if you know a game is on FSN South, and a baseball game is on the main channel, do a search and find the alternate channel.

What is tricky is that I saw about 5 channels that had the game on. Two were the Chicago feed, which we can't get. One was the NHL Channel feed (I think) that is blacked out locally. The other two were the SD and HD feeds to the Nashville market.

So in doubt, use the search functionality. ;)

[Jones31]

It wasn't on either of the FSN channels for Direct, they put it on 772, had to redirect people complaining about that last night. That's what channel it was on for them.

[RallyRedBmore]

saw some of the preds game while working....they looked good!! im def rooting for them :)

[Toronto]

I don't wanna hear one more critical word from you Chuck on Trotz. You are getting the best coaching of any team in hockey right now. Chicago is way more talented than the Preds yet you can't teach effort or execution.

[Jones31]

I'll be quiet..... unless they get bounced. Really can't fault him for any of the shortcomings beyond the Powerplay and the Penalty kill being what it has been this year.

[Sect309Fan]

What were the Preds thinking???? Play keep away on the power play for the final minute, and the game is over. By shooting, they let the Hawks pull their goalie and tie the game.

I don't get it...

[Sect309Fan]

I hope the Preds fans stay home Monday night. Unless you like losing. Biggest choke job I have seen in a while.

Terrible, terrible loss. This series is over. It will be another 4-2 end, just like always.

[ZachLV27]

That was a clinic on how to completely collapse.

[SwissTitansFan]

AAAAAARGH.....F@&£ you side sideways....!!!

Un-freaking-believable....!!!!

[Rolltide14TOMB]

most pathetic thing i think i have witnessed...the clock is ticking 34 and counting we have control of the puck and they arent even coming after us but NO we get antsy and skate forward start passing and SHOOT!!! WTF....just ******* stand there.....skate back and forth even backwards then smack it down the ice...its 34 f-ing seconds with complete control of the puck in their end and u give up a goal? its worse than pathetic but its hard to come up with the proper description....sickening i guess

[SwissTitansFan]

most pathetic thing i think i have witnessed...the clock is ticking 34 and counting we have control of the puck and they arent even coming after us but NO we get antsy and skate forward start passing and SHOOT!!! WTF....just ******* stand there.....skate back and forth even backwards then smack it down the ice...its 34 f-ing seconds with complete control of the puck in their end and u give up a goal? its worse than pathetic but its hard to come up with the proper description....sickening i guess

right on the point...!!!

[BoroTitan]

Just got playing softball in Franklin at Field Stone Farms, every sunday i play ball out there for Comcast. We're in the middle of the first game, getting crushed. And i see a guy walk by with two little girls, who looks just like JP Dumont. I ask some members of my team if its him and they said "nah, they just had a game in chicago." Well he walks to the other dugout and greets the other team, everyone comes out and greets him. Turns out it really was Dumont. He plays with the guys we were playing against on another team. He just wanted to come out and relax alittle with his girls and check up on his other team. So for a game he was the spectator out in the stands, when i everytime i see him im the spectator in the stands. It was weird and i was kinda star struck, pretty cool.

I asked the first baseman when i got to first what he was doing out there, stated he needs to be practicing. He said thats what his team was saying too. lol

[Toronto]

most pathetic thing i think i have witnessed...the clock is ticking 34 and counting we have control of the puck and they arent even coming after us but NO we get antsy and skate forward start passing and SHOOT!!! WTF....just ******* stand there.....skate back and forth even backwards then smack it down the ice...its 34 f-ing seconds with complete control of the puck in their end and u give up a goal? its worse than pathetic but its hard to come up with the proper description....sickening i guess

I am still stunned at that loss. To make matters worse, you had a 4 minute PP to start OT, which should have been enough to overcome that Kane goal. Clueless as to what the hell happened on how Kane had even a sniff of the crease.

I'll be stunned if you guys win Game 6. Better teams than the Preds have usually quit after a collapse like that. Guess we'll see. Shame too, because this Hawks team isn't as strong as we all thought. Their goaltending is barely adequete.

[Jones31]

0 power play goals for the Preds in the playoffs. ZERO

[Sect309Fan]

For some reason, nhl.com is blocked at work this morning. That includes the Preds site. I just find it strange, because I can still get to any Titans site, MLB.com, NBA.com, NFL.com, etc. Also, my company has emails every day trying to sell Preds tickets.

Weird...

[Rolltide14TOMB]

Preds are gonna take it 5-4 i feel it

[Jones31]

Well, that's that.............

[Toronto]

You had them by the balls and somehow they got off the mat. Gonna sting for a while. Canucks/Hawks winner takes the cup IMO.

[Jones31]

Game 5.... and that's all I can say.

[SwissTitansFan]

Game 5.... and that's all I can say.

I add "Powerplay" to it...!!!

[Sect309Fan]

Same ole Preds. Nothing has changed about this team. They tease their fans, but when it counts, they can't win at home.

[Jones31]

It actually goes further than that, a team that makes the same mistakes over, and over, and over, like they did this series, there was really no way they were going to win. They got sniped by a fluke goal and by one of their own defenseman kicking the puck in the net. Chicago was the better team the whole series outside of game 3.

[TTP77]

I wonder what that loss and the failure to go farther in the playoffs means for the Preds in Nashville...Sounds like they had a good crowd last night though.

[315]

I think it means they won't be able to hold their fans hostage with the threat of new ownership or greener pastures.

[Jones31]

As long as they hit the mark for revenue sharing.... nothing.

[Toronto]

It actually goes further than that, a team that makes the same mistakes over, and over, and over, like they did this series, there was really no way they were going to win. They got sniped by a fluke goal and by one of their own defenseman kicking the puck in the net. Chicago was the better team the whole series outside of game 3.

Chicago kinda proved to me what Pittsburgh also proved. It is better to bottom out and get the best talent in junior hockey. My biggest beef with the Leafs the last few years has been their inability to 'bottom out' and win useless games long after they've been elimininated from the playoffs. Three years ago, it cost them a shot at Stamkos/Doughty and last year it cost them a shot at Tavares/Hedman. This year they traded away either Taylor Hall or Tyler Seguin for Kessel.

The Preds have been treading along anonymously, getting solid players but not a Kane/Toews type that can throw it over the top and allow them to dominate an opponent over a two week stretch. That said, I don't buy into the notion that your team was the 'better' team all series. If not for a complete and total dumbass breakdown by an entire line with 45 seconds left, you win game 5, and all due respect, your goalie was better than theirs PERIOD. I think Niemi will end up costing the Hawks dearly, and the Canucks will beat them this time. The Preds were hardly a high scoring team, but had no problem scoring on the Hawks. Now throw a team that has two bitching lines including the Art Ross winner into the mix....

[Jones31]

I dont' recall saying the Preds were the better team all series..... They were in Game 3 hands down.... the rest, not so much.

[Toronto]

Not saying that either - but The Hawks were nowhere near as dominant as I thought they should have been - they left the door wide open to getting beaten in the 1st round, and you didn't capitalize. Game 5 still is stunning, several days later.

[don28]

And that didn't happen for the Preds. Jason Arnott didn't show up until Game 6, Patric Hornqvist was either too injured to play or was being protected by Trotz, and Sullivan and Dumont did not rise to the occasion.

David Legwand, who couldn't have hit a cow's backside with a banjo in the second half of the season, was the Preds' best player in the playoffs. That says a lot about how others needed to step it up, and failed to do so.

I think that Toronto is right in that bottoming out to be able to draft elite talent is what is necessary to break through further in the playoffs. The Preds can't afford to do that either because the team would not meet revenue sharing projections if they played like this season's Edmonton Oilers.

[Jones31]

In a shocking development Barry Trotz has been named as a Finalist for the Jack Adams Award (best coach), Other nomninee's are PHX Dave Tippett and COL Joe Sacco.

I think Tippett will end up winning it.

[Sect309Fan]

For some reason, nhl.com is blocked at work this morning. That includes the Preds site. I just find it strange, because I can still get to any Titans site, MLB.com, NBA.com, NFL.com, etc. Also, my company has emails every day trying to sell Preds tickets.

Weird...

As soon as the Preds were eliminated, the site was unblocked. Even weirder...

[Toronto]

In a shocking development Barry Trotz has been named as a Finalist for the Jack Adams Award (best coach), Other nomninee's are PHX Dave Tippett and COL Joe Sacco.

I think Tippett will end up winning it.

Interesting, but all three nominees for the Vezina and Adams are eliminated from the playoffs....

[Jones31]

So Rally, what was that about the Caps and the Stanley Cup? What a choke job!

[Sect309Fan]

Montreal with the unprecedented comeback to win the series!

[Jones31]

#Caps make #NHL history...the 1st no. 1 seed to blow a 7 gm series after leading 3 gms to 1. Bye President's Trophy winners!

[Toronto]

#Caps make #NHL history...the 1st no. 1 seed to blow a 7 gm series after leading 3 gms to 1. Bye President's Trophy winners!

I'm no Habs fan, but I am frigging thrilled to see this outcome. I watched a bunch of complete whining pissing babies beg and goad refs into calls, and saw several players play virtual pond hockey without any concept of playing as a team. Guys like Ovie, Semin and Mike Green would play full two minute shifts and not once did that ever pay off.

Boudreau is in for a long week - the Caps had no business even being stretched into a long series, let alone lose.

Maybe next time Ovie won't do this either - karma has a habit of striking classless jerks.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z7Pv9VD_5Ew

[RallyRedBmore]

boy, i sit here and root for the preds and watch their games and support them, and i get pissed on because once again my team chokes in the playoffs (for the 1 umpteenth time)??? wtf did i do to deserve that? so i gloated about the presidents trophy, big deal? and i had dreams of finally seeing a team i root for hold up a championship trophy???

man, thought u guys were my friends????

o well...ill still support the preds even when we move down, hell nance and i are gonna buy some pred jerseys and go to the games.... but if the caps come to town, the red jerseys come out! :)

o well...there is always next year... :(

[Jones31]

I have to share the pain!

[Jones31]

Phoenix Coyotes: Will they stay or will they go? (http://www.thestar.com/sports/hockey/nhl/article/807478--phoenix-coyotes-will-they-stay-or-will-they-go)

Got to say it kids..... I think they are Winnipeg bound now.

[Toronto]

Phoenix Coyotes: Will they stay or will they go? (http://www.thestar.com/sports/hockey/nhl/article/807478--phoenix-coyotes-will-they-stay-or-will-they-go)

Got to say it kids..... I think they are Winnipeg bound now.

Irony is beyond rich on that possibility.

I'm so tired of the subject that I wouldn't care if the team folded. Just end that saga.

[Jones31]

No more Canucks, No more Penguins.... ahh! what a nice couple nights.

[Toronto]

No more Canucks, No more Penguins.... ahh! what a nice couple nights.

Stunned that the Habs beat the Pens, just stunned. Think the Hawks/Sharks winner is the Cup Champ.

[RallyRedBmore]

if the habs make it to the stanley cup, i think they win....

[Jones31]

Not playing 7 games every series.

[Sect309Fan]

The Flyers are amazing. To not only come back from an 0-3 series deficit to win the series, but to be down 0-3 in the game 7 as well.

This year's playoffs has been unpredictable in so many ways.

[Rolltide14TOMB]

top on one side, bottom 2 on the other

destiny would lead me to predict 1 v 8 for the cup

[Jones31]

I was hoping Boston and San Jose would make it for the Joe Thornton factor. I don't care who comes out of the East. Philly is decent for the former Preds that are on the roster. Montreal because they are on a run like the 2006 Oilers were.

The West is a toss up Chicago's window is going to close after this trip, the will have to move a few players since they are well over the cap for next season. They could pull it off. San Jose will be a tough matchup for them Niemi did not face SJ this year in the regular season. All of CHI wins and losses vs SJ came with Huet in net.

I like both teams chances in the West, can't choose between them.

[Toronto]

I was hoping Boston and San Jose would make it for the Joe Thornton factor. I don't care who comes out of the East. Philly is decent for the former Preds that are on the roster. Montreal because they are on a run like the 2006 Oilers were.

The West is a toss up Chicago's window is going to close after this trip, the will have to move a few players since they are well over the cap for next season. They could pull it off. San Jose will be a tough matchup for them Niemi did not face SJ this year in the regular season. All of CHI wins and losses vs SJ came with Huet in net.

I like both teams chances in the West, can't choose between them.

IMO the winner of the West is the Stanley Cup Champ - The Habs have a ton of holes and karma aside, Halak can't carry this group to the cup. Like you said, the 7 game series take their toll. I will say that MTL got lucky that the conf final didn't start until Sunday and let them rest an extra day or two. That's huge.

I'm not sure that Chicago's window 'closes' if they don't get it done. Their key core players (Toews, Kane, Keith, Seabrook and maybe Hossa) are in place - they just need to sprinkle in the right amount of pluggers and they'll hit the jackpot, this year or one of the next few.

I wonder how Bruin fans feel about the Kessel deal now? I have to think that with Kessel, they had that extra scoring punch to knock off Philly and likely MTL

[RallyRedBmore]

and maybe hossa? he signed like a 14 year deal, hes gonna be there, lol

[Toronto]

One thing I've discovered is that these guys know how to write off bad deals, even that 12 year dumbass deal

[don28]

One thing I've discovered is that these guys know how to write off bad deals, even that 12 year dumbass deal


When Rick DiPietro is no longer a New York Islander, and the Islanders are no longer hoping he can salvage their season, I'll believe that dumbass deals can be written off.

[Toronto]

When Rick DiPietro is no longer a New York Islander, and the Islanders are no longer hoping he can salvage their season, I'll believe that dumbass deals can be written off.

You need an owner willing to eat contracts. MLSE has already done that for Brian Burke on a few occasions. You can spread it out over the cap apparantly and survive.

[Titansfan777]

Philly vs. Chicago

Expansion team vs. the Original 6

Go Blackhawks...I'm partial to the original 6...especially my favorite team, the redwings.

[Jones31]

Give me Chicago in 6. That way I can LMAO when people try to figure out what happen to the Hossa curse.

[Jones31]

Remind me to skip the 2011 Winter Classic. Washington Capitals @ Pittsburgh Penguins. Way to fail NHL/NBC.

[ZachLV27]

The NHL and NBC chose the two teams that will get the most viewers. How exactly did they fail?

A majority of the NHL's fans were going to watch this game no matter who played, so the smart play is to put teams in the game that will draw the most casual fans. That's what they did and that's what they needed to do. If the NHL ever wants to grow their sport beyond what it currently is then it needs to convert some of those casual fans into hardcore fans. Catering to those casual fans is the best way to do that.

[Toronto]

Remind me to skip the 2011 Winter Classic. Washington Capitals @ Pittsburgh Penguins. Way to fail NHL/NBC.

They failed only because you despise Crosby to death. (I'm not far behind you but his OT goal at Vancouver gives me reason to not hate his guts). NBC made a no-brainer decision IMO.

[Toronto]

I say Hawks in 5. The bubble has to burst on Leighton/Boucher and this Chicago team is built to win the Cup now. I actually wouldn't mind them winning, because then the Leafs officially have the longest drought in the NHL (1967) and we can really begin to get pissed at MLSE up here.

[Jones31]

The two teams that have gotten the top billing from the networks since the lockout ended 4 years ago. It's overkill.

I wish they would have put someone other than the Habs in the game in February. Are the Habs and Flames rivals?

[Toronto]

Any game between Cdn. teams automatically is a ratings bonanza up here. When the Habs or Leafs head to EDM/VAN/CGY there are tons of Habs/Leafs fans at the game, and the atmosphere is usually playoff-level. Its pretty good stuff, even if my network and TSN destroy my ability to enjoy it by over-reporting the hell out of it. I call it the Canadian Brett Favre syndrome.