NHL 2005-2006: The thread

[Real American Hero]

Prediction: Osgood goes down with a brutal injury in the next week or so. All my other fantasy goalies have...:roll:
Dump him now! You probably killed Nabokov for me already. I need my goalie starts. And stay away from Luongo.

[Irish Blues]

Prediction: Osgood goes down with a brutal injury in the next week or so. All my other fantasy goalies have...:roll:
It'll happen right before they play St. Louis - the Wings will be forced to play Joey MacDonald, who will come in and stop 21 of 22 shots to get the victory.

And not that the Blues are struggling offensively, but Jamal Mayers leads the team in goals with 6. And yes - the Blues stink this year. Going down 2-0, fighting back to tie, going down 5-2, coming back to tie, then forcing overtime and giving up the game winner :37 in when the defense forgets to do its job yet again will earn that tag.

[seabass]

I thought Ottawa was a Cup contender before the season started, but now they officially scare me. Even without Havlat, who is now ranked a remarkable 5th among Sens forwards in points and +/-. One thing got me early on: I don't care how he may have looked in training, why do they throw Brian Bochenski on the first line to start?

[DoctorNo]

I'm this close to starting an Official Antti Laaksonen Appreciation Thread. We snuck down into some great seats that ended up being in great view of his shorthanded breakaway last night (second goal of the night).

Who'da thunk that Laaksonen, Ian Laperriere and Andrew Brunette would be our most dangerous line so far this year?

[seabass]

I went to the Isles v. Pens game last night and it was pretty miserable. They spent most of the time in awe of Sid (2 goals, 1 assist) and made Sebastien Caron look like an all-star. Only positive was Rob Nilsson, looks legit, but not gonna get anything done playing 10 minutes a game on the third line. Only a matter of time before the Fire Milbury chants start up again.

[Irish Blues]

You think Chicago is wishing they hadn't dumped $25 million in the lap of Khabibulin? 3-8-0 with a 3.83 GAA and a .847 save%, and he got chased after 4 goals in the 1st at Dallas.

And after tonight, he'll be the worst goalie statistically in the NHL because Patrick Lalime gave up 5 goals but took 2 periods to do it. (Of course, he surrendered a penalty shot goal tonight, making opposing shooters 4-for-4 on penalty shots against him.)

[DoctorNo]

(Of course, he surrendered a penalty shot goal tonight, making opposing shooters 4-for-4 on penalty shots against him.)

Before this year, though, he had stopped three of four (of course, one of those was Matthew Barnaby, so there you have it).

[GefilteFish144]

I went to the Isles v. Pens game last night and it was pretty miserable. They spent most of the time in awe of Sid (2 goals, 1 assist) and made Sebastien Caron look like an all-star. Only positive was Rob Nilsson, looks legit, but not gonna get anything done playing 10 minutes a game on the third line. Only a matter of time before the Fire Milbury chants start up again.

Pens off to a slow start now starting to make teams look bad. This is going to be a tough division, especially with the increased division matchups.

[MountainHawk]

Heatley-Spezza-Alfredsson and Knuble-Forsberg-Gagne. By far the two best lines in the NHL this year, and possibly a couple of the best lines the lague has seen in a decade.

[hardinda]

Heatley 22 pts
Spezza and Alfredsson 23 pts

Gagne 19 pts
Forsberg 22 pts
Knuble???? 12 pts

Yeah, I'd say Heatly, Spezza and Alfredsson is, don't think the Flyers line is even close to that Ottawa line.

[MountainHawk]

Heatley 22 pts
Spezza and Alfredsson 23 pts

Gagne 19 pts
Forsberg 22 pts
Knuble???? 12 pts

Yeah, I'd say Heatly, Spezza and Alfredsson is, don't think the Flyers line is even close to that Ottawa line.

Your numbers are out of date. Plus, Ottawa has played an additional game.

Alfredsson 26
Forsberg 25 (league leader in assists with 21)
Spezza 25
Heatley 24
Gagne 23 (league leader in goals with 15)
Knuble 14

Oh, and in the game they actually played against each other:

Gagne-Forsberg-Knuble: 3 goals, 5-3 win
Alf-Spezza-Heatley: 0 goals, 5-3 loss

Knuble is the perfect fit for Gagne and Forsberg, because Forsberg doesn't have to risk injury winning the battles along the board.

The two lines are by far the two top lines in the NHL, and I think are pretty close to each other. Forsberg and Gagne are probably the 1st and 3rd most skilled players on that list, while Knuble is obviously 6th, but fits well and is producing more than a PPG himself.

[hardinda]

I think you could replace Knuble with alot of other players in the NHL on that line and they would have similar stats. You can't replace anyone on that Ottawa line and get similar stats. The Philly line is good, but the Ottawa line is in a league of it's own right now.

[MountainHawk]

I totally disagree. It's not just about the stats. Knuble is a perfect fit, because he's got the speed to not completely slow down the attack of Forsberg and Gagne, as well as the grit to keep those two from being killed along the boards. 5.77 points per game isn't that different from 5.17 points per game, especially when you consider that the Senators have gotten to play Buffalo already. ;-)

The Ottawa line may be a bit better, but the difference between these two lines is far less than the difference between either of these lines and any other line that is rolled out in the NHL.

[hardinda]

It's not just Buffalo Ottawa did a number on. Take a look at all the games. Ottawa is by far a superior team to anyone in the NHL right now. When Philly played them, Ottawa was coming off a back to back and Philly was waiting for them.

Oh yeah and Philly gets to play in a division with Pittsburgh and Islanders and New Jersey, now there is some great defense for ya ;)

[MountainHawk]

Philly was playing their 3rd game in four nights against Ottawa. Please don't try to play that card. Philly also was missing their entire shutdown checking line (Stevenson-Primeau-Kapanen), and one of their top two defenseman (Johnsson), so you can't play the Havlat card either.

Philly went into Ottawa and showed that a team with a solid defense and good work ethic (which the Flyers had that night), can shutdown the Alf-Heatley-Spezza line.
Comparing the consistency of the lines:

Philly

NYR: 2 goals, 2 assists (3-5)
NJD: 2 goals, 5 assists (5-2)
@TOR: 2 goals, 2 assists (2-4)
PIT: 2 goals, 6 assists (6-5)
NYI: 1 goal, 1 assists (5-1)
@TOR: 1 goal, 4 assists (5-2)
@MTL: 0 goals, 0 assists (2-3)
FLA: 3 goals, 3 assists (5-4)
@CAR: 2 goals, 2 assists (6-8)
@OTT: 3 goals, 3 assists (5-3)
WSH: 4 goals, 4 assists (8-1)
ATL: 4 goals, 5 assists (4-3)

OTT

@TOR: 2 goals, 3 assists (2-2, SOW)
BUF: 2 goals, 3 assists (5-0)
TOR: 4 goals, 4 assists (5-5, SOW)
@MTL: 2 goals, 1 assists (4-2)
BOS: 0 goals, 4 assists (4-1)
@TBY: 2 goals, 3 assists (4-1)
@CAR: 1 goal, ? assists (2-3) (no box score available on NHL.com?)
MTL: 2 goals, 3 assists (4-3)
@TOR: 5 goals, 4 assists (8-0)
PHI: 0 goals, 5 assists (3-5)
BUF: 6 goals, 7 assists (10-4)
TBY: 2 goals, 2 assists (4-2)
@NYI: 3 goals, 4 assists (6-0)



Other than the runaway night they had against the Sabres in mostly meaningless fashion (the game wasn't close), the two lines production has been very similar.

[hardinda]

Why don't you compare stats against teams with at or over .500 records? For Ottawa, take out the Islanders game. For Philly, take out the Atl, Wash, Islanders, Pitt and Florida games. I'd say this comparison isn't that close with the competition compared. Give it another 15 games and the Ottawa production will be the same or higher when they play the under .500 teams. We'll see about that Philly line, could be, maybe it won't against the .500 and over teams.

[MountainHawk]

Lets take out the .500 teams too.

There goes TOR, BUF, TBY (who is actually under .500) for Ottawa. How do those stats look now?

[hardinda]

Lets take out the .500 teams too.

There goes TOR, BUF, TBY (who is actually under .500) for Ottawa. How do those stats look now?

It looks to me like you've taken out 7 out of philly's 12 games.

Edit: Oops, 8 you have to take out NJ too.

[MountainHawk]

and 8 of Ottawa's 13.

[hardinda]

And now let's not compare the games where Alfredsson wasn't on the line (most of the first 10 games of the year) and look the production of that line in the last 3 games where they were actually together.

Edit: I think the 8-0 Toronto game might have been one of the first games Alfredsson was on that line for the whole game.

[Wannabe Actuary]

so they've both played a lot of crappy teams and both have good teams. They've done what you should do, beat the crappy teams. You don't stand a chance if you don't win the games you are supposed to.

[hardinda]

Cmon, the Philly line has 25 points against Atlanta, Washington and Pittsburgh. That's just a joke. Ottawa hasn't even played anyone as bad as the Atlanta, Washington or Pittsburgh defense.

[MountainHawk]

so they've both played a lot of crappy teams and both have good teams. They've done what you should do, beat the crappy teams. You don't stand a chance if you don't win the games you are supposed to.


Flyers 5 - Ottawa 3.

[hardinda]

Flyers 5 - Ottawa 3.

Sorry, this has nothing to do with the argument of which line is better. Philly line 6 points in the game, Ottawa line 5 points. That game has nothing to do with which line is better.

[hardinda]

hfboards.com ... a sens fan said that line has only been together since the Buffalo game. Guess your game comparison is just wrong.

[MountainHawk]

Object of the sport is to win games, not score 10 goals against everyone. If they can't beat the Philly and Detroits of the league, then the line is ineffective, even if all three of them have 150 points.

[hardinda]

Object of the sport is to win games, not score 10 goals against everyone. If they can't beat the Philly and Detroits of the league, then the line is ineffective, even if all three of them have 150 points.

The line wasn't together against Philly.

[MountainHawk]

As I said on that board ... 3 games against three sub-.500 teams. They aren't even in consideration yet for a top line. They just had a good week. If they are still doing it in December, let me know.

[MountainHawk]

The line wasn't together against Philly.

For a line that 'wasn't together', they spent a lot of time on the ice together:

http://www.nhl.com/scores/htmlreports/20052006/SC020173.HTM

[hardinda]

For a line that 'wasn't together', they spent a lot of time on the ice together:

http://www.nhl.com/scores/htmlreports/20052006/SC020173.HTM

Bochenski was on the line, check your chart again.

[MountainHawk]

I count at least 10 different shifts they were out there together. Sounds like a line to me.

[hardinda]

I count at least 10 different shifts they were out there together. Sounds like a line to me.

How many were power play and 3rd period. Looks to me like they set that line up in the 3rd period of that game. Did the other guy get hurt?

[MountainHawk]

Power plays are hard to tell on there ... I wish they'd color PP PK differently. I think the count was 3-3-4 by period, and the other guy played some in the 3rd, so he wasn't hurt.

[seabass]

Bochenski was reassigned to the AHL the next day. He played the entire first period on the first line, as he had been, and then I guess the Sens gave up on that experiment and switched it up. It should also be noted that the Sens were coming off a back to back set (first one at Toronto). It's a bit early to start hyping lines as the best in awhile, but those two are holding up well so far.

[MountainHawk]

Bochenski was reassigned to the AHL the next day. He played the entire first period on the first line, as he had been, and then I guess the Sens gave up on that experiment and switched it up. It should also be noted that the Sens were coming off a back to back set (first one at Toronto). It's a bit early to start hyping lines as the best in awhile, but those two are holding up well so far.

It was noted, and dismissed, because the Flyers were playing their 3rd game in 4 nights.

[Irish Blues]

I can't believe no one mentioned this (from October 29):

ATLANTA (AP) -- Tampa Bay Lightning goalie Sean Burke strained his groin when he stepped on a puck during a workout before Saturday's game against the Atlanta Thrashers.
:rofl:

[seabass]

It was noted, and dismissed, because the Flyers were playing their 3rd game in 4 nights.

So what's worse, 3 in 4 or back to back?

[Wannabe Actuary]

So what's worse, 3 in 4 or back to back?3 in 4 has to include back to back game nights, so that's clearly worse

[seabass]

3 in 4 has to include back to back game nights, so that's clearly worse

Yeah, I know, but the back to back in this set was in front, and the Sens-Flyers game was the 3rd game in 4 days. And besides, Sens also played 3 in 4, only their back to back was at the end.

... and now we're getting really picky.

[Wannabe Actuary]

Yeah, I know, but the back to back in this set was in front, and the Sens-Flyers game was the 3rd game in 4 days. And besides, Sens also played 3 in 4, only their back to back was at the end.

... and now we're getting really picky.true, I was only answering your direct question

[seabass]

true, I was only answering your direct question

I know, it was more about me really thinking about arguing which 3 in 4 series was tougher, between the travel time for away games, opponents, times and dates of those games, etc etc etc.

Yep, not really worth it.

[Irish Blues]

So what's worse, 3 in 4 or back to back?
How about 4 in 5, which is what the Blues had to do in March 2004.

Of course, it used to be that in the 1st round of the playoffs, everyone played 4 games in 5 nights to open up.

[hardinda]

Leafs lose to Caps and Tucker gets in a fight with no time left. Darn, I hate when Tucker gets a suspension.

[Uncle Larry]

Buffalo falls into the basement in the East. Was at the Canadiens/Sabres game Saturday. Good game. Buffalo looked alright but they were outplayed, didn't do much on offense. Canadiens looked really good. Kovalev is unbelievable. Kovalev/Zednik/Koivu is a great line, very fun to watch. Not interested in joining the who's the best line conversation though, way too much stats research there.

[hardinda]

Buffalo falls into the basement in the East. Was at the Canadiens/Sabres game Saturday. Good game. Buffalo looked alright but they were outplayed, didn't do much on offense. Canadiens looked really good. Kovalev is unbelievable. Kovalev/Zednik/Koivu is a great line, very fun to watch. Not interested in joining the who's the best line conversation though, way too much stats research there.

Buffalo outplayed in the middle part of the game. They outplayed Montreal at the end of the game. Biron let in a weak goal to Kovalev for his 2nd. Left half the net wide open. That one goal is the difference in the game and those were the saves Miller was making. Ugh, gonna be a long 6 weeks.

[Irish Blues]

Buffalo falls into the basement in the East. Was at the Canadiens/Sabres game Saturday. Good game. Buffalo looked alright but they were outplayed, didn't do much on offense. Canadiens looked really good. Kovalev is unbelievable. Kovalev/Zednik/Koivu is a great line, very fun to watch. Not interested in joining the who's the best line conversation though, way too much stats research there.
They fell into the basement at 7-7-0. That would put them tied for 3rd in either of the other two divisions in the East, and puts them in 9th in the conference (tied with Florida and New Jersey) by just 2 points with a game in hand on both Toronto and Tampa Bay.

[MountainHawk]

But they aren't playing nearly as well as they were at the start ... and with Miller out until somewhere around the new year, they'll have to work hard not to get buried.

[Irish Blues]

But they aren't playing nearly as well as they were at the start ... and with Miller out until somewhere around the new year, they'll have to work hard not to get buried.
Same thing with the Blues - they aren't playing nearly as well as they were .... wait - they played like crap at the start too. Well, they'll have to work hard now not to ..... no, wait - they're already buried.

Hey, at least Phil Kessel or Jordan Staal will look great in a Blues uniform.

[seabass]

One of the more bizarre statlines from NHL.com for the Washington v. Toronto game...

Goal - Alexander Ovechkin (Shorthanded) (Empty Net)

It was the first period. So how did Toronto screw this one up?

[MountainHawk]

The EN is wrong ... I saw the highlight.

Well, Belfour was in goal, so it was close to an empty net, but still technically wrong.

[DoctorNo]

Sorry I was out for a bit - Exam C got in the way for a bit.

Antero Niittymaki scored an overtime goal a few years back, if you can believe that. Here was the situation:


On April 11, 2004, Antero became the first goaltender in the history of North American professional hockey to be credited with an overtime goal (shorthanded, no less!). On the last day of the regular season, the Hershey Bears needed a victory to qualify for the Calder Cup playoffs. Midway through overtime, with the game between Hershey and Niittymaki's Philadelphia Phantoms tied at two apiece, Hershey coach Paul Fixter gambled and pulled goaltender Philippe Sauve during a power play to give the Bears a five-on-three man advantage. During the ensuing attack, Shane Willis' wild pass left the Phantom zone, rebounded off the side boards at center ice and entered the vacated Hershey net. Niittymaki was the last Philadelphia player to play the puck, and he was credited with the tally.


Pretty good for him, no?

[MountainHawk]

Going to Bruins - Senators tomorrow for my birthday. 1st row ... should be fun. I hope there is a photographers hole nearby ... maybe I can cheap shot Havlat in the kidney. ;)

Speaking of the Bruins ... nice comeback win for the Flyers last night. Forsberg is god, and Pitkanen is a monster for them right now. They are an exciting team to watch. :)

[Uncle Larry]

There's no such thing as "cheap shot"ing Havlat.

[MountainHawk]

There's no such thing as "cheap shot"ing Havlat.
:lolup:

[MountainHawk]

Tomorrow is the 21st anniversary of the death of the first 'favorite Flyer' I had as a kid, Pelle Lindburgh. Such a waste of talent.

His number #31 doesn't hang in the rafters with the four other retired numbers in Flyers history (1, 4, 7, and 16), but I can't recall any Flyer ever wearing #31 since either.

[Wannabe Actuary]

Tomorrow is the 21st anniversary of the death of the first 'favorite Flyer' I had as a kid, Pelle Lindburgh. Such a waste of talent.

His number #31 doesn't hang in the rafters with the four other retired numbers in Flyers history (1, 4, 7, and 16), but I can't recall any Flyer ever wearing #31 since either.well, therre was that guy in the 2004-2005 season, oh wait, darn, there was no season.
I looked at the rosters, starting with the 85-86 season, and no Flyer has been #31 since, you are correct Mr. MH

[MountainHawk]

Yeah ... he was a special player, and his number surely would be up there, but at the time, the Flyers decided that they couldn't honor a guy that way who had died driving drunk. I think it was a good decision on their part, but I also hope the tradition of not wearing #31 continues as well.

[MountainHawk]

If you see a guy in the front row of Boston-Ottawa tonight in a bright orange Flyers sweater ... that's me.

(BTW ... it's the 20th anniversary, it's only 2005 :oops: )

[GefilteFish144]

Impressive Rangers victory -- pulling one out with 3 seconds left in OT and Lundqvist stopping all 4 shots in the shootout. It's very rare when the empty net strategy actually works, but nice that it worked this time. :)

[Wannabe Actuary]

Impressive Rangers victory -- pulling one out with 3 seconds left in OT and Lundqvist stopping all 4 shots in the shootout. It's very rare when the empty net strategy actually works, but nice that it worked this time. :)yeah...it was sweet.
btw, I know you meant 3 seconds of regulation...

[Not Mike]

Man, the Penguins are Jekyll and Hyde. Look horrid agaisnt the B's, look great against the Rangers, look horrid against the Thrashers.

And what is up with the camera work for Atlanta games, that was one of the most painful hockey watching experiences I've ever had.

[Wannabe Actuary]

a lot of the camera workers are new to hockey and are awful.

[hardinda]

that was one of the most painful hockey watching experiences I've ever had.

It's funny, I was at the game and thought the same thing about Pittsburgh's defense.

[MountainHawk]

Hockey's a hard game to do camera work for ... it should improve by the playoffs. There was a year layoff for all the production staffs too, and I doubt they could go to Europe to keep their skills sharp. ;-)

[Not Mike]

It's funny, I was at the game and thought the same thing about Pittsburgh's defense.
They were terrible last night. Offense, too. And the line shuffling is just idiotic.

[Irish Blues]

If the league is serious about the "no instigating fights in the final 5 minutes of a game" rule, then I expect Eric Brewer to get suspended for fighting Rostislav Klesla at the end of the Blues-Blue Jackets game last night. (Klesla reportedly injured his hand in the fight, which will make Blue Jackets fans even more angry if Brewer isn't suspended.)

And Jody Shelley showed why he may be the NHL heavyweight champ last night - put Aaron Downey on the ice with a right above the eye, 10 stitches.

[MountainHawk]

I think the suspension is only automatic if you get the instigator call. Not absolutely sure though.

[hardinda]

Leafs @ Sabres tomorrow night, WOW do I hate the Leafs. If the Sabres could just step up for one game. This is the one. Oh yeah, it's in Buffalo, but I expect to see atleast 60/40 Leaf fans at this one.

Go SABRES!!! Beat the Leaves!!!

[MountainHawk]

Things I learned from being in the first row at the Boston - Ottawa game.

(1) I've seen 5 teams play live this season (BOS, MTL, NJD, BUF, and OTT). Of all of them, the team with the defense I was least impressed with is Ottawa. They are slow, and they can't handle the puck at all. Way to many dumb passes in their own zone. If Hasek gets hurt or bored, they could be in trouble.

(2) Chara is a beast. Holy hell, the guy is huge. It's also unfair that he can cover the entire defensive zone with a poke check from the tree he calls a stick.

(3) Heatley/Alfredsson/Spezza can play. (OK, I knew that already :) ) Damn, they were impressive last night. The rest of Ottawa got bogged down for quite a bit, but the ASH line looked like a threat almost any time they were on the ice.

[Uncle Larry]

Ya, getting Heatley for Hossa and saving $2M in the cap is looking like move of the year right now. I was a huge fan of that trade right from the get go but I had no idea it would work out so well thus far.

In other trade news, apparently Jason Allison is on the block. I really like Allison so far this year but the Leafs just have too many guys up the middle. Lindros has been playing great, then they've got Sundin, that doesn't leave much ice time for Allison and a forth. And with all the surprising rookies and young guys this year they need to see the ice. I just hope if Allison does get moved Lindros doesn't go down right away then we end up short at center. If we could get a good defensive defenseman for Allison that could really help us out. McCabe has been scoring like a first line center, but he's also been giving away goals like it was Christmas.

[Mike and Maddog]

In the flyer-icelander game last night, forsberg took an elbow to the head of the icelander goalie. I guess he is taking the place of lindros as the cheapshot artist on the team.

[Wannabe Actuary]

In the flyer-icelander game last night, forsberg took an elbow to the head of the icelander goalie. I guess he is taking the place of lindros as the cheapshot artist on the team.you mean he gave an elbow...if he took the elbow, he would have been the one being elbowed.

[GefilteFish144]

you mean he gave an elbow...if he took the elbow, he would have been the one being elbowed.

Actually, Forsberg wasn't elbowed, but took a couple of punches from DiPietro. Refs were generous enough to give the Icelanders the PP, but then NY was stupid enough to commit a penalty of their own.

[Wannabe Actuary]

I watched the Islanders take a 2-0 lead, but changed it to another channel to watch things that interested me more.

[Mike and Maddog]

you mean he gave an elbow...if he took the elbow, he would have been the one being elbowed.

Forsberg gave an elbow to the head of .... doesn't sound right.


Thanks for trying though.

[Wannabe Actuary]

Forsberg gave an elbow to the head of .... doesn't sound right.


Thanks for trying though.how about Forsberg elbowed so-and-so in the head...

took is NOT the right word there.

[seabass]

I watched the Islanders take a 2-0 lead, but changed it to another channel to watch things that interested me more.

I did the same thing and wondered what happened when I came back. Isles looked like they actually wanted to play against the Devils, and torched the Flyers in the first period last night. Flyers really control rebounds well, so the score was kept at 2-0. I expected the Flyers to put up 2-3 in the later two periods, but the Islanders had 20 shots in those two periods and no goals to show for it. Add in yet another Kvasha brain fart and Isles lose 3-2. At least I feel a little bit more confident with them now, they held their own against a very good squad.

[MountainHawk]

Why is the Devils-Capitals game starting at 1 (http://www.nhl.com/scores/htmlreports/20052006/GS020245.HTM) today?

[DoctorNo]

Veteran's Day.

It still sucks, though.

[DoctorNo]

And apparently, a sometimes-friend of mine (Frederic Cassivi) is getting the start today. But I'm here at work.

Good to see Marty back in the New Jersey net.

[GefilteFish144]

Sounds like they lost a scheduling conflict to the NBA. Wizards play in DC both nights, Nets play in Jersey Saturday night. That's the only way they could fit in a home-and-home without having to travel in the middle of the night.

[DoctorNo]

Freddy lost a tough one today - I thought the Caps could come all the way back. Still, not bad for your first NHL appearance since early 2003.

[Wannabe Actuary]

day game today doesn't make much sense to me, everyone is still working today.

day after thanksgiving day game that the bruins do each year is nice, since a lot of people have that day off.

[GefilteFish144]

No surprise you thought the Caps could come back -- Devils give up way too many 3rd period goals. Good thing for Brodeur he didn't blow another lead.

[DoctorNo]

day game today doesn't make much sense to me, everyone is still working today.

Well, it's in Washington, where there are a higher percentage of government workers. Government workers get today off.

[hardinda]

Leafs @ Sabres tomorrow night, WOW do I hate the Leafs. If the Sabres could just step up for one game. This is the one. Oh yeah, it's in Buffalo, but I expect to see atleast 60/40 Leaf fans at this one.

Go SABRES!!! Beat the Leaves!!!

5-2 Sabres ... I LOVE BEATING THE LEAFS!!!

now on to Ottawa tomorrow night where it's back to reality, just hope we keep them under 10 this time.

[hardinda]

Thrashers might be finally starting to show their true colors. They are on a 3 game winning streak after trouncing Carolina 9-0 last night. Kovalchuk and Hossa are on fire lately.

[Irish Blues]

Thrashers might be finally starting to show their true colors. They are on a 3 game winning streak after trouncing Carolina 9-0 last night. Kovalchuk and Hossa are on fire lately.
So much for the Canes 9-game winning streak. But Ottawa looked impressive yet again last night, routing Buffalo 6-1.

Fortunately (or not, depending on which side you're on), the Blues 11-game losing streak is alive and well. And depending on who you listen to, Dave Checketts may or may not have taken himself out of the running to buy the team, making a bad situation in St. Louis even worse.

[MountainHawk]

I'm not sure whether to be happy the Flyers keep finding ways to win these games, or concerned that they need to score in the last 10 seconds way too often to win. :)

[DoctorNo]

Fortunately (or not, depending on which side you're on), the Blues 11-game losing streak is alive and well. And depending on who you listen to, Dave Checketts may or may not have taken himself out of the running to buy the team, making a bad situation in St. Louis even worse.

IB, what are your thoughts on John Davidson potentially coming to St. Louis? I'm certainly biased, but I think he'd do great work.

[Wannabe Actuary]

5-2 Sabres ... I LOVE BEATING THE LEAFS!!!

now on to Ottawa tomorrow night where it's back to reality, just hope we keep them under 10 this time.

6-1 loss this time...much better

[DoctorNo]

Just a little pimping...I'm running season ten of Goaltender Trivia again this year, and it's now up on my site (http://hockeygoalies.org) as well as on HFBoards. Stop on by!

[Hayden Christensen]

Sorry this question is a little out of date, but I was wondering what people's thoughts were on Steve Begin's hit from Thursday night's game (Mtl at Pit) for which he got a 5 minute major elbowing call and a misconduct? The replay clearly showed it wasn't an elbow, but some people say it was dirty since Maxime Talbot had his head down and Begin put his shoulder right into it.

[DoctorNo]

Thanks to my league team having its own game that night, I've only seen the replay on a choppy internet movie. But it didn't really look all that bad to me.

[Irish Blues]

IB, what are your thoughts on John Davidson potentially coming to St. Louis? I'm certainly biased, but I think he'd do great work.
I think he'd be a very solid addition to the franchise and would bring some much-needed stability. He certainly knows the game, I think if you take him and a capable GM with him and put them in the Blues front-office, the team is set to rise yet again. (Then again, my 2-year old twins could do a better job than Mark "I'm just here to gut the franchise and leave it devoid of any possible value" Sauer, so take it for what it's worth.)

The bigger question is whether Dave Checketts is able to get a deal done. From everything I've heard, Bill Laurie's original asking price was $150 million - that gets you the franchise and the lease on the Savvis Center (for which any prospective owner must pay $62 million over the next 20 years). The City of St. Louis owns the arena, I think they may also own the parking garage - if they don't, then it's part of the purchase. Either way, $150 million is just ridiculously high for a team that traded away it's superstar player, is floundering in the standings, has $62 million in debt obligations, and has to pay 12.8 cents of every dollar on ticket sales to the city. The Cardinals got relief on this as part of their stadium deal, part of the tax money on the Rams goes to maintenance of the dome. The Blues are responsible for all maintenance and upkeep at Savvis Center even though the city owns the arena.

Strangely enough, I remember hearing in '92 about how the Blues had a craptastic lease at The Arena (owned by the city, maintenance paid by the team, 12.8 percent of ticket revenue to the city) and how building a new arena would help the team get revenues it didn't get currently. The only difference between then and now is that I think the Blues get some part (but not all) of the concession and merchandise revenue generated at Savvis - I'm checking on this.

Back to Checketts - he balked (and rightfully so) when Laurie refused to budge from $150 million. Supposedly the asking price is now $140 million and Laurie has said it's a "take it or leave it" price ... so I expect Checketts to walk away unless Laurie comes down hard. The other local groups interested in the team have said they can't match what Checketts might be willing to bid, and with Laurie even at $140 million it's *way* more than what they'd be willing to pay.

And before anyone starts thinking, "Gee, maybe the Blues will get bought and moved to ..." there's a catch on that lease - the collateral on the lease debt is the St. Louis Blues. If you want to move the team, the $62 million becomes due immediately ... meaning you'd have to pay whatever to buy the team, then another $62 million before you were free and clear to take them to Saskatoon or wherever else. I'm not saying someone wouldn't do it - but that hurdle would have to be cleared before it could be done.

[seabass]

Isles and Pens went NINE ROUNDS in a shootout last night. I was worried we were gonna have to put Garth Snow out there to take a shot.

[MountainHawk]

It was a hell of a lot cleaner than Stevens hit on Lindros. ;-)

[Irish Blues]

IB, what are your thoughts on John Davidson potentially coming to St. Louis? I'm certainly biased, but I think he'd do great work.
Since Checketts dropped his bid for the Blues, let me restate my answer:

No way in hell it happens. :lolup:

[Mike and Maddog]

I'm not sure whether to be happy the Flyers keep finding ways to win these games, or concerned that they need to score in the last 10 seconds way too often to win. :)

Flyers lose decisively! Now you don't have to wonder.

[MountainHawk]

One loss per 7 games is perfectly acceptable.

[hardinda]

New Jersey @ Sabres tonight. This is gonna be a tough game, but it's not Ottawa, so we have a chance!!! Tim Connolly has been on fire lately, hope he keeps it up.

Hope Brodeur is as shaky as he's been all year, that'd be nice. I don't want to run into him when he turns it around. If the Sabres use their speed they should win.

[MountainHawk]

The Devils look to be stirring a bit. Hopefully, the Sabres can end that. ;)

[Wannabe Actuary]

I see MH has changed his avatar to a team that can win more than they lose...

[MountainHawk]

Yep. My avatar is always the Philly team with the next realisitic shot at a title run. My personal feeling is the Eagles have gone past that hope for 2005.

Technically, it probably should be the Wings, since their title game is in May, but they've made a ton of changes this year, so I'm only cautiously optimstic on their chances. Plus the lacrosse season doesn't start until January anyway. ;-)

[Mike and Maddog]

One loss per 7 games is perfectly acceptable.

Not when the loss is against a TB team without Martin St. Louis. And not against the team that beat them in the last playoffs.

[Uncle Larry]

Not when the loss is against a TB team without Martin St. Louis. And not against the team that beat them in the last playoffs.Are you in love with Mountainhawk or something? All the following him around like this is pretty homosuspicious.

[seabass]

Not when the loss is against a TB team without Martin St. Louis. And not against the team that beat them in the last playoffs.

St. Louis has been playing below his ability lately and the latest rumor is that he's still cranky over his contract, so maybe its better that he sits out awhile and loses some steam. Besides, as much as I hate them, the Flyers have been very solid. But I'll send word to Ken Hitchcock that anything below 82-0 is completely unacceptable.

[MountainHawk]

Standings on 11/15/2005:



Team W L OT Pts Win% AW% GF GPG GA GAA
Atlantic Division
NYR 11 5 3 25 .658 .597 65 3.42 46 2.42
PHI 11 4 1 23 .719 .652 70 4.38 55 3.44
NYI 9 9 0 18 .500 .453 53 2.94 63 3.50
NJD 8 7 2 18 .529 .480 51 3.00 60 3.53
PIT 5 8 6 16 .421 .382 57 3.00 81 4.26
Northeast Division
MTL 12 3 3 27 .750 .680 57 3.17 51 2.83
OTT 13 2 0 26 .867 .786 75 5.00 31 2.07
TOR 9 7 2 20 .556 .504 67 3.72 68 3.78
BOS 7 7 5 19 .500 .453 64 3.37 69 3.63
BUF 8 9 0 16 .471 .427 53 3.12 61 3.59
Southeast Division
CAR 12 3 1 25 .781 .709 60 3.75 47 2.94
TBY 8 9 2 18 .474 .430 57 3.00 58 3.05
ATL 7 9 1 15 .441 .400 61 3.59 58 3.41
FLA 6 9 3 15 .417 .378 40 2.22 51 2.83
WSH 6 11 0 12 .353 .320 43 2.53 73 4.29
Central Division
DET 15 3 1 31 .816 .740 72 3.79 42 2.21
NSH 11 2 3 25 .781 .709 49 3.06 43 2.69
CHI 7 11 0 14 .389 .353 50 2.78 69 3.83
CLB 5 13 0 10 .278 .252 34 1.89 62 3.44
STL 2 12 3 6 .206 .187 44 2.59 72 4.24
Northwest Division
VAN 11 5 2 24 .667 .605 60 3.33 53 2.94
CGY 11 7 2 24 .600 .544 51 2.55 52 2.60
EDM 10 9 1 21 .525 .476 60 3.00 59 2.95
COL 9 6 2 20 .588 .533 70 4.12 58 3.41
MIN 8 9 2 18 .474 .430 50 2.63 45 2.37
Pacific Division
LAK 12 5 1 25 .694 .630 68 3.78 50 2.78
DAL 11 6 1 23 .639 .579 62 3.44 56 3.11
PHX 9 9 2 20 .500 .453 54 2.70 52 2.60
SJS 8 7 2 18 .529 .480 47 2.76 57 3.35
ANA 7 7 4 18 .500 .453 49 2.72 51 2.83


Winning percentage is Points / (GP *2)
Adjusted winning percentage is Points / (GP * 2.2), because there has been an average of 2.2 earned in the NHL per game played.

Team Statistics:


Top 5 Offenses:

1. OTT 5.00
2. PHI 4.38
3. COL 4.12
4. DET 3.79
5. LAK 3.78

Worst 5 Offenses:

1. CLB 1.89
2. FLA 2.22
3. WSH 2.53
4. CAL 2.55
5. STL 2.59

Top 5 Defenses:

1. OTT 2.07
2. DET 2.21
3. MIN 2.37
4. NYR 2.42
5. CAL 2.60
PHX 2.60

Worst 5 Defenses:

1. WSH 4.29
2. PIT 4.26
3. STL 4.24
4. CHI 3.83
5. TOR 3.78

Top 5 Power Plays:

1. DET 25.0%
2. TOR 24.3%
3. ATL 23.2%
4. PHI 21.0%
5. BUF 20.9%

Worst 5 Power Plays:

1. CLB 9.2%
2. WSH 11.4%
3. FLA 12.3%
4. SJS 13.2%
5. CHI 13.3%

Top 5 Penalty Kills:

1. MIN 90.1%
2. NYR 88.5%
3. DET 87.0%
4. LAK 86.6%
5. COL 85.9%

Worst 5 Penalty Kills:

1. PHI 75.7%
2. PIT 77.1%
3. WSH 77.3%
4. ATL 78.9%
5. BUF 79.4%



Individual Statistics:



Goals

1. Gagne 17
Jagr 17
3. Alfredsson 15
Heatley 15
5. Prospal 13
Ovechkin 13

Assists

1. Forsberg 25
2. Spezza 22
2. Thornton 20
4. Savard 18
5. McCabe 17
Straka 17

Points

1. Alfredsson 31
Forsberg 31
3. Heatley 29
4. Jagr 28
Prospal 28
Staal 28

PIM

1. Ott 60
2. Avery 55
3. Chelios 54
4. Stevenson 50
5. McCarty 47
Barnaby 47

Rookie Points

1. Crosby 21
2. Ovechkin 18
3. Vorobiev 15
4. Svatos 14
5. Steen 13
Phaneuf 13
Vanek 13


GAA

1. Lundqvist 1.88
2. Hasek 1.89
3. Fernandez 1.94
4. Legace 2.02
5. Dunham 2.10

Save Percentage

1. Hasek 93.7%
2. Fernandez 93.6%
3. Lundqvist 93.5%
4. Roloson 92.9%
5. Joseph 92.9%




And some final fun numbers:

Goals per game: 6.317
Points awarded per game: 2.205
Number of shutouts: 21
Number of OT games: 55
Number of shootouts: 24
Percentage of Games ending in regulation: 79.5%
Percentage of OT Games ending before shootout: 56.4%
Percentage of games ending in shootout: 7.8%

Shootout Statistics:

Games in shootout:24
Shots taken: 154
Goals scored: 50
Shootout save percentage: 67.5%

[hardinda]

I think Ottawa's #1 in GF and GA really shows who has been the most dominating team in the NHL the first month of the season. Very impressive to lead both of those stats.

[Mike and Maddog]

St. Louis has been playing below his ability lately and the latest rumor is that he's still cranky over his contract, so maybe its better that he sits out awhile and loses some steam. Besides, as much as I hate them, the Flyers have been very solid. But I'll send word to Ken Hitchcock that anything below 82-0 is completely unacceptable.

Who said anything about 82-0? They should beat an inferior TB team. The one that beat them in the playoffs that is now without Khabulin(sp?) and the aforementioned St. Louis.

Not only did they lose, they lost big, 5-2.

[MountainHawk]

I think Ottawa's #1 in GF and GA really shows who has been the most dominating team in the NHL the first month of the season. Very impressive to lead both of those stats.
It seems like it's the Sabres mission to make sure they do. ;-)

[hardinda]

It seems like it's the Sabres mission to make sure they do. ;-)

You are just upset b/c Ottawa with a crappy defense has let in 24 fewer goals than Philly with that dominant defense they have. They have played 1 fewer game, but I don't think anyone is going to score 24 in that game.

[MountainHawk]

Well ... a ton of the Flyers GA are due to the terrible PK, which is suffering terribly without Kapanen and Primeau. Forunately, Kapanen is healing faster than expected, so he might be back by Thanksgiving now, instead of Christmas.

And Ottawa can score all the goals they want ... they'll still have to beat the Flyers at some point, and they haven't done that yet this year. :-)

[hardinda]

And Ottawa can score all the goals they want ... they'll still have to beat the Flyers at some point, and they haven't done that yet this year. :-)

This statement isn't a true statement. They never have to beat Philly and could still win the Cup.

Plus, with logic, Tampa beat Philly, so most of the teams in the league should be able to beat them. ;)

[MountainHawk]

Fair enough. I think it's pretty unlikely that Philly and Ottawa each other aren't playing come May.

[Wannabe Actuary]

I think it's also worth pointing out that Alfredson has 15 goals, 16 assists while shooting a mind boggling 31.3%!!!

Look at the other goal scoring leaders...31.3% is unheard of when you're up around 15 goals....

when you have 1 or 2, yeah, but 15....:yikes:

[seabass]

Who said anything about 82-0? They should beat an inferior TB team. The one that beat them in the playoffs that is now without Khabulin(sp?) and the aforementioned St. Louis.

Not only did they lose, they lost big, 5-2.

5-2 on an empty netter isn't exactly "big", particularly in a sport that sees 8-1 scores nowadays.

And sure, I would expect them to beat Tampa, but losses happen. Great teams are gonna lose to bad teams (see Nashville vs. Columbus), and Tampa isn't even THAT bad. They have a okay team on top of St. Louis, and they knew they needed to grit it out to win without him. Calling a loss to them "unacceptable" after a solid stretch of 6 wins is... well, a stretch.

[DoctorNo]

Sergei Fedorov traded to Columbus for Tyler Wright and Francois Beauchemin. Discuss.

[MountainHawk]

Something else is coming. Perhaps named Jason Allison?

[DoctorNo]

Fedorov was never a Brian Burke type of player.

I'm almost sure that something else is coming.

[DoctorNo]

Sean Avery hits in the guy in the face with his stick not once, but twice, and then complains about the penalty call? :roll:

[Real American Hero]

Sean Avery hits in the guy in the face with his stick not once, but twice, and then complains about the penalty call? :roll:
Avery needs to shut his yap... off the ice. And learn to stay on his feet to receive the beatings he so richly deserves.
Sergei Fedorov traded to Columbus for Tyler Wright and Francois Beauchemin. Discuss.Fedorov is kind of like Randy Moss - loaded with talent, but prone to taking shifts (and sometimes entire games) off. If Scotty Bowman couldn't get him to bust his butt every shift, I don't think anyone can. Columbus is a good situation for him - new to hockey, their fans will appreciate what he does, and give him a pass for what he doesn't, because they need some scoring in that line-up.

[MountainHawk]

Sean Avery hits in the guy in the face with his stick not once, but twice, and then complains about the penalty call? :roll:

"But I didn't break his neck ... why the call?"

[Real American Hero]

Sergei Fedorov traded to Columbus for Tyler Wright and Francois Beauchemin. Discuss.
One thing I don't like about the trade is that it lets Anaheim out of the cap corner they painted themselves into.

[MountainHawk]

It has to paint Columbus into a corner though, especially since it has 2 more years after that, and guys like Nash and Zherdev are coming up within that timeframe, no?

[Real American Hero]

It has to paint Columbus into a corner though, especially since it has 2 more years after that, and guys like Nash and Zherdev are coming up within that timeframe, no?
They were at about 30 million, and pick up about 4.5 more, so they've got room yet. Nash just re-signed, not sure for how long though.

[Irish Blues]

They were at about 30 million, and pick up about 4.5 more, so they've got room yet. Nash just re-signed, not sure for how long though.
Nash signed a 5-year deal for $25 million.

[hardinda]

Looking at the standings, everything in the East is starting to even out. If this continues, there could be 12-14 teams in the playoff race. Looks like Detroit and Nashville have a pretty easy division. The only easy division in the NHL right now.

[Mike and Maddog]

Another loss by the flyers. what a surprise. Another philly choke. :lol:

As an overwhelming favorite, they lost to pitt playing without super mario.

:lol:

[MountainHawk]

Detroit's gotten ZERO points in the last two games. Guess they really really suck.

[Mike and Maddog]

Detroit loses on the road to 2 good teams.

Philly loses at home to the lowly penguins.

No comparison.

[MountainHawk]

Penguins now 6-4-1 in their last 11 ... you have an odd definition of 'lowly'

[hardinda]

I would say that Philly losing 2 games doesn't make them bad. But, I bet they aren't happy only gaining 1 point against Tampa and Pitt. I'm sure they were hoping for atleast 3 out of those 2 games.

Sabres play Washington tonight. They lost to Washington earlier in the year. These are the games they need to win in order to stay in the playoff hunt. Ruff said he expected the team to go atleast 6-2 for the rest of November before the New Jersey game. Well, guess they now need to go 5-2.

I expect a win out of the Sabres tonight, just gotta keep that rookie from scoring.

[astudent]

Anybody whatch the Stars and Anaheim last night? The goaltending was phenominal. All around a great game.

[DoctorNo]

I like Bryzgalov a lot, although he's still hot and cold at this stage of his career. Fortunately he was hot last night!

[astudent]

He looked incredible against Dallas's two man advantage at the end of the second period. Its also good to see Turco back up to form. Dallas can finally challenge LA for the pacific division.

[Mike and Maddog]

Penguins now 6-4-1 in their last 11 ... you have an odd definition of 'lowly'

Last place team. 5-8-6 before last night.

Face it, the flyers were an overwhelming favorite and choked. Nothing new to philly teams.

[MountainHawk]

I would say that Philly losing 2 games doesn't make them bad. But, I bet they aren't happy only gaining 1 point against Tampa and Pitt. I'm sure they were hoping for atleast 3 out of those 2 games.

Sabres play Washington tonight. They lost to Washington earlier in the year. These are the games they need to win in order to stay in the playoff hunt. Ruff said he expected the team to go atleast 6-2 for the rest of November before the New Jersey game. Well, guess they now need to go 5-2.

I expect a win out of the Sabres tonight, just gotta keep that rookie from scoring.

Hitchcock isn't happy if they lose a single game. That said, I doubt he was disappointed with the effort last night, just the results. The Flyers kept the Penguins hemmed in their own end for a decent part of the night.

Hitch's post-game press conference:

Post-game Wednesday.

Pretty impressive goaltending by both goalies tonight.
“Yeah and for us Niittymaki was opportunistic. The shots weren’t coming real often but he made some big saves especially in the second period. We had a couple of breakdowns. When you spend as much time in the other teams zone as we did, you are going to get some of those breakdowns when you are taking chances trying to score."

On the play of the Flyers:
“We really played good in the overtime. We really played good in the last 15 minutes we played excellent. When we went down 2-0 we really stepped it up and really played well. We did a lot of really good things.”

On the game-winning goal:
“The Defenseman got caught staring. One defenseman went down and the other defenseman instead of protecting the middle of the ice was over on the one side and he’s a skilled guy, he’s opportunistic. If we get he puck we are obviously looking at three-on-two at the net but those things happen. We won a lot of close games, we won a lot of games in overtime and like everybody says it evens out but we threw a lot of rubber at Fleury today. He made good saves, he wasn’t supposed to play and there is no pressure when you are not supposed to play. You just kind of get ready and go. He did a good job.”

On Crosby:
“Other than the breakaway I didn’t really notice him.”

[Not Mike]

On Crosby:
“Other than the breakaway I didn’t really notice him.”
Wow, he's a pretty good coach.

[Not Mike]

Detroit's gotten ZERO points in the last two games. Guess they really really suck.
You have to be kidding, right? He's a Red Wings fan? In addition to being a Yankees fan and a Duke fan? OMG, don't tell me he's a Lakers fan, too? That's hilarious.

[seabass]

You have to be kidding, right? He's a Red Wings fan? In addition to being a Yankees fan and a Duke fan? OMG, don't tell me he's a Lakers fan, too? That's hilarious.

I doubt it, more likely a rangers fan. Then again, I figured he would be a Giants fan too, and he's been bashing them in the Giants season thread. So who knows.

[MountainHawk]

Wow, he's a pretty good coach.


I think that's a bit of Hitchcock psychological warfare ... they play again on Saturday, I think. I doubt he REALLY didn't notice him. ;-)

[Not Mike]

I think that's a bit of Hitchcock psychological warfare ... they play again on Saturday, I think. I doubt he REALLY didn't notice him. ;-)
Yeah, I figured, but when the guy has 2+1 in a 3-goal outing, it's a pretty asinine comment.

That being said, did Forsberg play last night?

[MountainHawk]

:lolup:

[Real American Hero]

Hawk, I'd just like to take a minute to thank you for not starting a "Flyers season" thread. All we need around here is 15 team threads polluting the forum, with no discussion of any value in any of them.

[MountainHawk]

Hawk, I'd just like to take a minute to thank you for not starting a "Flyers season" thread. All we need around here is 15 team threads polluting the forum, with no discussion of any value in any of them.

I'm trying to decide if this is sarcastic or not. ;-)

Assuming that it's not ... I figured that compared to the MLB and NFL, there are relatively few hockey fans on the board, so one thread was more likely to stay near the top and drum up discussion more consistently.

[MountainHawk]

BTW ... anyone see Ottawa-Florida last night? I saw the third period, and Ottawa just seemed to turn something on and decide it was time to score three goals. Now I grant you FLA isn't playing great right now, but still, once Ottawa gets going, teams seem helpless to stop them. Their only losses are still CAR and PHI ... given they only play 8 games against those two teams and only 10 games against the West ... you have to think OTT is beginning to look like a threat to put up 60-65 wins, unless they suffer a key injury.

[Irish Blues]

On the flip side, Boston .... :yikes: Talk about a team that's underperforming, they had a lot of energy and a lot of shots on goal last night against Toronto but just never got a lot of great shots off and then broke down defensively on two of Toronto's goals.

BTW - Detroit's lost 3 in a row now. Florida has lost 10 in a row. At least Detroit has St. Louis coming in tomorrow night - that's pretty much a guaranteed 'W' even when the Blues don't stink.

[seabass]

BTW ... anyone see Ottawa-Florida last night? I saw the third period, and Ottawa just seemed to turn something on and decide it was time to score three goals. Now I grant you FLA isn't playing great right now, but still, once Ottawa gets going, teams seem helpless to stop them. Their only losses are still CAR and PHI ... given they only play 8 games against those two teams and only 10 games against the West ... you have to think OTT is beginning to look like a threat to put up 60-65 wins, unless they suffer a key injury.

Didn't see any of it, but I'm not surprised. Keep an eye on Hasek for injuries, but even so, Ottawa has a solid enough defense around to make goaltending somewhat easier for anyone. I'm going to the Isles - Ottawa game next Friday, and I'm beginning to think it was a bad decision.

On the other hand, NY is playing like they care right now, so who knows. They played really well early last night against TB, but it seemed like they burnt out at the end (the prior night they played against Atlanta). Nonetheless, I'm hopeful they can keep this going and start moving along.

[seabass]

On the flip side, Boston .... :yikes: Talk about a team that's underperforming, they had a lot of energy and a lot of shots on goal last night against Toronto but just never got a lot of great shots off and then broke down defensively on two of Toronto's goals.

BTW - Detroit's lost 3 in a row now. Florida has lost 10 in a row. At least Detroit has St. Louis coming in tomorrow night - that's pretty much a guaranteed 'W' even when the Blues don't stink.

10 in a row? Wow... I'm looking at their sched, looks like they just hit a bad stretch. Two against Montreal, two against Carolina, etc. NY is playing them Saturday, and I guess that's winnable for them.

[Uncle Larry]

BTW ... anyone see Ottawa-Florida last night? I saw the third period, and Ottawa just seemed to turn something on and decide it was time to score three goals. Now I grant you FLA isn't playing great right now, but still, once Ottawa gets going, teams seem helpless to stop them. Their only losses are still CAR and PHI ... given they only play 8 games against those two teams and only 10 games against the West ... you have to think OTT is beginning to look like a threat to put up 60-65 wins, unless they suffer a key injury.The greatest thing about Ottawa is that they used to play this all-pro Euro girlie man hockey. They've always been able to score but you could basically go in and bully them around. Now Ottawa is the only team in the league the has fights fairly regularly. McGrattan and Neil beat someone up almost every night. They can score goals, that's no secret, but Hasek's keeping the puck out, and they're the physically intimidating team now. There really isn't anything they don't do...I can't even pretend to imagine how to stop them.

[MountainHawk]

I was throughly unconvinced by Ottawa's defense when I saw them in Boston. If Hasek slumps, I think you are going to see the GAA go way up. They made a lot of poor decisions with the puck in their own zone, and Hasek had to mae several very good saves to keep the puck out of the net.

[MountainHawk]

The greatest thing about Ottawa is that they used to play this all-pro Euro girlie man hockey. They've always been able to score but you could basically go in and bully them around. Now Ottawa is the only team in the league the has fights fairly regularly. McGrattan and Neil beat someone up almost every night. They can score goals, that's no secret, but Hasek's keeping the puck out, and they're the physically intimidating team now. There really isn't anything they don't do...I can't even pretend to imagine how to stop them.
Put on a ugly red jersey with a swirly thing in the middle. ;-)

[Real American Hero]

BTW - Detroit's lost 3 in a row now...But they got a point last night...
vs. US 12-1-0
vs. Canada 1-3-2

[Uncle Larry]

But they got a point last night...
vs. US 12-1-0
vs. Canada 1-3-2The Canadian teams are all pretty strong this year. Four or 5 are going to make the playoffs. Even Edmonton will be in the hunt. Leafs are so up and down. They'll look great one night and lousy the next, even though I think they've won 4 in a row. I'd be very surprised if any of Calgary, Vancouver, Ottawa or Montreal weren't in.

[Irish Blues]

But they got a point last night...
vs. US 12-1-0
vs. Canada 1-3-2
I'd say it's sad that someone has that stat, but ..... well, it is sad that someone has that stat.

What's even worse is that someone has stats like this but we have *nothing* to measure how good goalies are based on where the shots they face come from on the ice. Baseball, we know what a player hits if the pitch is in the bottom 3rd of the strike zone, facing a left-handed pitcher, innings 4-6, runners in scoring position and 2 outs. Hockey? Nothing even remotely close.

[Uncle Larry]

What does it matter where they come from on the ice? The biggest thing is how much traffic is in front of the net and whether it was deflected. Not easy to measure. Well the deflection is, but you'd have to take into account how far away it was deflected, and how much it was deflected. Also if the it was a one timer/the goalie was moving when the shot was taken. Too much to take into account to come up with anything meaningful.

[Real American Hero]

I'd say it's sad that someone has that stat, but ..... well, it is sad that someone has that stat.
Nah, I had to look at the results. The 3-game swing through western Canada is fresh, and I knew they lost to Vancouver earlier.

[Real American Hero]

What's even worse is that someone has stats like this but we have *nothing* to measure how good goalies are based on where the shots they face come from on the ice. Baseball, we know what a player hits if the pitch is in the bottom 3rd of the strike zone, facing a left-handed pitcher, innings 4-6, runners in scoring position and 2 outs. Hockey? Nothing even remotely close.
One could probably compile stats as to where goalies tend to get beaten for goals (1-5), as well as GAA for various situations (5-5, 5-4, etc.) but I'm not sure any of that would be meaningful.

[hardinda]

Now the real question, will the Flyers lose 3 in a row to bad teams?

Atlanta tonight with a Goalie playing who looked horrible in his last start, 4 goals allowed in about 10 mins (Tampa Bay). I'd expect a huge night out of Philly, 8-2 Flyers.

[Wannabe Actuary]

atlanta up 3-1

[Wannabe Actuary]

flyers up 5-3 after 2

[hardinda]

Atlanta wins in OT ...

OK, now we can question Philly ... they've lost to Tampa, Pitt and now Atlanta.

[Wannabe Actuary]

philly gave up the tying goal with 7 seconds left...
still moved into a tie with the Rangers for points...because it was an OT loss

[DoctorNo]

I understand that they're tough and all, but if I were the guys in the ridiculous "My NHL" commercials and I was playing in a pitch-black unlighted ice rink, I'd probably wear at least a half-shield or something.

[DoctorNo]

This has come up before, but I'm watching Rangers-Hurricanes right now, and Eric Staal is sick. He's doing what I keep hoping that Patrick Marleau would do.

[DoctorNo]

Coolest goaltender name: Pete Peeters.

[Irish Blues]

One could probably compile stats as to where goalies tend to get beaten for goals (1-5), as well as GAA for various situations (5-5, 5-4, etc.) but I'm not sure any of that would be meaningful.
Kind of like those completely obscure "hits .433 on pitches in the upper third of the strike zone from innings 5-7, runner in scoring position, ........" stats for baseball. Or the "He's 9-for-10 for 137 yards when passing to the left side 10-19 yards downfield in the 4th quarter, ......" stats in football.

But :swear:, if they've got those stats for baseball and football, I want them for hockey too!

[Uncle Larry]

Coolest goaltender name: Pete Peeters.Pokey Reddick.

[DoctorNo]

Ron Tugnutt.

[Uncle Larry]

Gump Worsley

:lol: My favorite hockey quote, when asked why he didn't wear a mask (Gump was the last goalie to play without one) he replied "My face is my mask"

[Wannabe Actuary]

Guy Herbert....doesn't sound like it looks

[DoctorNo]

Guy Herbert....doesn't sound like it looks

It's actually "Hebert", like the Saints quarterback.

http://hockeygoalies.org/bio/hebert.html

[DoctorNo]

Now, as far as really unfortunate goalie names go, I'll take Steve Passmore.
http://hockeygoalies.org/bio/passmore.html

For really good names, Anaheim prospect Mike Wall might have a good future.
http://hockeygoalies.org/bio/wall.html

Even if he did play junior hockey for our rivals. :(

[Irish Blues]

Just make sure you *never* get a nickname attached to your name for eternity like Andre "The Red Light" Racicot.

[Mike and Maddog]

Atlanta wins in OT ...

OK, now we can question Philly ... they've lost to Tampa, Pitt and now Atlanta.

Yup. And Pitt and Atlanta were losses at home.

But they did rebound and finally beat the powerful Pitt (rolling eyes) this weekend.

[hardinda]

Once again, we are 20 games into the season for most teams.

Ottawa is by far the best team in the league through 20 games (actually only 18 for them). I've watched just about every team play this year and I just don't think anyone can match up with Ottawa in all facets of the game. If you want to play a rough checking game, they'll beat ya. If you want to play a fast scoring game, they'll beat ya. If you try to play a tight lockdown game, they'll destroy ya.

They aren't losing to teams they are are supposed to beat (:cough: Philly :cough:). If they stay healthy, lookout for them to have 65-70 wins this year, they are that dominant.

As for the Sabres. Lindy Ruff said he expected them to finish out November atleast 6-2 a week ago. This week they went 3-0, so they just need to finish off the month at 3-2 which should be easily attainable. They have games against the Rangers, @Islanders, Canadians, @Penguins, and @Caps. Hope they continue their solid play. Three of those games are away, which could present a slight problem, but Caps and Penguins are teams that should be beaten home or away.

[MountainHawk]

Ottawa is 0-3 against the two other best teams in their conference, and two of those 3 games were in their own building. Until they show they can beat Philly or Carolina, I'm not all that impressed, especially with what I consider a suspect defensive D that is strengthened only by Hasek.

[seabass]

Ottawa is 0-3 against the two other best teams in their conference, and two of those 3 games were in their own building. Until they show they can beat Philly or Carolina, I'm not all that impressed, especially with what I consider a suspect defensive D that is strengthened only by Hasek.

Second best record in the NHL with a couple games in hand on most of the other teams sounds pretty good to me. They are 0-3 against Philly and Carolina, yes, but undefeated against everyone else, a list that includes Toronto (3 times), Montreal (twice), and Tampa Bay (twice). I have no idea what happened against Carolina, but it wasn't like the three losses were blowouts. They can definitely beat Carolina, not sure about Philly.

[MountainHawk]

We'll find out tomorrow. Canes are struggling a little bit right now, and the Sens have to head down to RBC Center to play them.

[Real American Hero]

Marchant to Ducks ... there goes about half of the cap space they cleared in the Fedorov deal.

[hardinda]

Marchant to Ducks ... there goes about half of the cap space they cleared in the Fedorov deal.

Did they get Marchant on re-entry waivers? If so, CBJ picks up half his salary.

[MountainHawk]

I don't think so. They waived him earlier, but never assigned him to the AHL. Same thing the Devils are doing with Oliwa.

[hardinda]

http://www.tsn.ca/nhl/news_story/?ID=143970&hubname=nhl

Sounds like Anaheim didn't take off waivers the first time to make sure they didn't consider the trade to be shady. They had asked for Marchant in the original trade, but he had the No Trade clause in his contract.

[MountainHawk]

Interesting.

[hardinda]

Ottawa proved they can beat Carolina. Philly seems to be struggling with Tampa though.

[seabass]

Big night... Sidney wins round 1 against Ovechkin with a goal, assist, and of course, the win. Maybe it's just that I haven't heard the nickname yet, but John Buccigross called Ovechkin "Red Bull" in his latest column. Potential nickname of the year right there.

Curious that the Flyers lost again to Tampa, although as I said before, Tampa is better than their record states. It sounds like they're putting it back together after an ugly stretch earlier this month.

[Tobias Funke]

Coolest goaltender name: Pete Peeters.

Unfortunately, it does not make the Top 3, which is:
3) Mike Liut
2) Chico Resch
1) Mike Palmateer

Thanks for playing.

[Tobias Funke]

Also ran:
Darcy Wakaluk and Pelle Lindbergh.

[Wannabe Actuary]

For best overall name I still love the name Zarley Zalapski

[Tobias Funke]

The Kings keep doing their thing.
Demitra had a hat trick last weekend on "Baseball Cap" night at the Staples Center. He has 4 Assists against the Blues tonite...

The games against the Wings should be good.

[Tobias Funke]

So many to pick from (in the non-goalies)...

Harold Snepsts
Ilkka Sinisalo
Ed Hospodar
Dale Hoganson
Wally Weir
Larry Playfair
Barry Tabobondung
Curtis Leschshschhshyn
Reijo Ruotsalainen
Dino Ciccarelli
Uwe Krupp
John Van Boxmeer
Moe Mantha
Willi Plett
Jim Peplinski
Hakan Loob
Tim Trimper
Bernie Federko
Bill Derlago
Dave Semenko

[Uncle Larry]

You guys aren't even close.

Bob Beers, wins by default.

[GefilteFish144]

Great Rangers-Sabres game last night. Noronen's ankle save was just classic. If he doesn't get injured Buffalo easily wins the shootout. Jagr is on fire. A goal, assist, and hits the post 3 times or could easily have been a hat trick. Just imagine how scary Pittsburgh would be if they had kept Jagr along with Lemieux and Crosby....

[Mike and Maddog]

That's the flyers we know. Lose 4th out of 5. To Tampa Bay again.

:lol:


And the loss was at home again! 3 straight home losses. That is sad.

[hardinda]

Great Rangers-Sabres game last night. Noronen's ankle save was just classic. If he doesn't get injured Buffalo easily wins the shootout. Jagr is on fire. A goal, assist, and hits the post 3 times or could easily have been a hat trick. Just imagine how scary Pittsburgh would be if they had kept Jagr along with Lemieux and Crosby....

Good quality game. I know Buffalo fans aren't happy with Drury as the 3rd shooter. We have playmakers like Vanek, Max, Connolly on our bench and Ruff chooses Drury???

Noronen looks good, especially at his $850k salary or something like that. There will be alot of interest in him when Miller comes back.

Sabres are 3-0-1 in their last 4, tough game tonight on the Island with the Islanders idle last night ... I think it'll be a loss.

[seabass]

Good quality game. I know Buffalo fans aren't happy with Drury as the 3rd shooter. We have playmakers like Vanek, Max, Connolly on our bench and Ruff chooses Drury???

Noronen looks good, especially at his $850k salary or something like that. There will be alot of interest in him when Miller comes back.

Sabres are 3-0-1 in their last 4, tough game tonight on the Island with the Islanders idle last night ... I think it'll be a loss.

Sabres can win, but thats a nasty one day road trip and Islanders have actually been idle since Saturday. I'm still unsure how the Isles are gonna react with Bates out for awhile, he had been on fire lately. Oleg Kvasha is taking his place on that line (with Trent Hunter and Jason Blake), so I'm a little nervous with a stretch of games against Ottawa, two against Philly, and one against Detroit (!!!!) coming up. Schedule-makers are evil.

[Real American Hero]

I'm still unsure how the Isles are gonna react with Bates out for awhile, he had been on fire lately. Sorry 'bout that. I added him to my fantasy team last week. I need something like 10 IR slots. Had Fischer, too.

[Uncle Larry]

Good quality game. I know Buffalo fans aren't happy with Drury as the 3rd shooter. We have playmakers like Vanek, Max, Connolly on our bench and Ruff chooses Drury???You're talking about the shootout? Why would you want a playmaker to take a penalty shot, so he can set it up in the corner? Drury scores piles of highlite goals. He's a great breakaway guy. I'd take Drury on a penalty shot over those three any day. Apparently Ruff, his coach, who would probably know since he sees them practicing shootouts agrees. The fact that he didn't score doesn't make it a bad decision. Most shootouts are being won 1-0. It's tough getting one past an NHL goalie.

[seabass]

You're talking about the shootout? Why would you want a playmaker to take a penalty shot, so he can set it up in the corner? Drury scores piles of highlite goals. He's a great breakaway guy. I'd take Drury on a penalty shot over those three any day. Apparently Ruff, his coach, who would probably know since he sees them practicing shootouts agrees. The fact that he didn't score doesn't make it a bad decision. Most shootouts are being won 1-0. It's tough getting one past an NHL goalie.

Drury's shot wasn't very good last night. Weekes was standing up, but Drury went 5-hole when there wasn't much room. Both the previous shooters went to the sides, and Weekes looked really shaky, so I figured Drury might make a move or at least put Weekes off balance with a fake. On the other hand, Jagr scored his first shootout goal of FOUR tries last night. So alot of this is a total crapshoot.

RAH: smart pickup (or so it seemed at the time). Hopefully when he comes back, his line will get back on the roll.

[GefilteFish144]

One thing that last night's shootouts showed was that a good strategy is to slow it down before shooting. That makes it much easier to deke the goalie and put one in. Most shooters I've seen have rushed through it, probably because of the breakaway mindset. You can't slow it down in a game situation when defenders are bearing down on you. Would be interested to see if more players use this approach as the season goes on.

[Uncle Larry]

DoctorNo will better be able to respond to your quote, but as a player (who's not great at breakaways but has put a few bisquits in the basket one on one with the keeper), going fast vs slow depends on whether you're deking or shooting. If you're going to deke, you want to be going fast, you want the goalie as far from the goal line as possible. That way when you pull the puck to the side you have more room between the keeper and the net. If you're shooting it's the opposite, you start coming in fast, the goalie starts backing up quickly, then you slow it down, try to get him to back a little farther into the net and that creates more room to shoot, he's not cutting down the angle as well.

[Not Mike]

I think the best way to score a goal on a breakaway is to be Sidney Crosby.

[DoctorNo]

Breakaway theory is an interesting thing, and there's a lot of competing thoughts out there.

As a goalie, I can usually tell what you're going to try to do by which side of the ice you come down, just because most shooters are a lot more comfortable on their forehand than their backhand (even at the NHL level). So if you're a lefthanded shooter, and you're coming from my left (your backhand side), I'm going to play you to deke. If you're coming from my right (your forehand side), I'm going to play you to shoot.

On the other hand, there's a game theory angle going on - at what point is an unexpected lesser shot (backhand) more advantageous than an expected better shot?

If I'm a goaltender with a decent poke check at my disposal, I'm eagerly hoping that you'll slow down to deke, because at that point you're a sitting duck. I don't even care if I get the puck or your skates first, because either way the puck's not going in the net.

You can mitigate this by deking further out from the net, but then I've still got a chance to make a recovery before the puck is in the net (Hasek is particularly good at this). There is a sweet spot where the shooter is close enough to take advantage of a deke but still far enough away that the goaltender can't poke-check, but it's hard to find and different for each goaltender.

On the other hand, there are disadvantages to a fast deke. If the shooter dekes too fast, then I haven't had time to react to the fake, and the shooter will shoot it right into me.

As the goaltender, what I hate to see is the shooter changing speeds in the other direction: coming in deliberate but not too fast, and then speeding up at about the hashmarks, coming across the crease and forcing me to go laterally.

[DoctorNo]

I think the best way to score a goal on a breakaway is to be Sidney Crosby.

This works, too.

[DoctorNo]

DoctorNo will better be able to respond to your quote, but as a player (who's not great at breakaways but has put a few bisquits in the basket one on one with the keeper), going fast vs slow depends on whether you're deking or shooting. If you're going to deke, you want to be going fast, you want the goalie as far from the goal line as possible. That way when you pull the puck to the side you have more room between the keeper and the net. If you're shooting it's the opposite, you start coming in fast, the goalie starts backing up quickly, then you slow it down, try to get him to back a little farther into the net and that creates more room to shoot, he's not cutting down the angle as well.

This is pretty much the accepted method, although goaltenders at the NHL level usually do a pretty job of not backing in too quickly. On the other hand, NHL shooters can pick corners with the best of them, so it's a wash.

Nothing beats a fast deke as far as I'm concerned.

[Not Mike]

This works, too.

He's got that old Mario touch, and Mario has completely lost it. Re: your note on breakaway theory, one thing that separates Sid is how ridiculously good he is on the backhand. The announcers have noted on a few occasions that his stick has virtually no curve which allows for more control on the backhand.

Ovechkin is the real deal as well, will be exciting to see these guys matchup over the years.

I'm kind of hoping that Crosby and Malkin can be the Pens version of Gretz/Mess 25 years later.

[DoctorNo]

The announcers have noted on a few occasions that his stick has virtually no curve which allows for more control on the backhand.

This affects my preparation on breakaways, too - what I said in my big post about the handedness of the shooter and the angle of approach changes when someone doesn't have a lot of curve on their stick. Less curve means more ability to toss in a backhand, of course.

Fortunately for me, the guys I play with still want to shoot as hard as they did in college and the minors, so 2/3 of the league plays with banana blades. :)

[GefilteFish144]

The more shootouts we get the more scouting reports the goalies have. The NY Rangers broadcasters already keep tabs on how often shooters go forehand vs. backhand.

[DoctorNo]

One thing we're worried about in our Strat-o-Matic league (shameless pimp: http://www.geocities.com/nshlweb) is how the shootout will affect the cards next year.

The trick is that you have to make the cards compatible with prior seasons, so the obvious first solution would be to use the already-existing Rebound/Breakaway column on the shooter's card. But then you have to consider that some shooters will be better/worse on breakaways than in regular rebound/breakaway situations, and that some goaltenders will be better/worse on shootouts than normal. On the other hand, if you have a special shootout rating, then what happens if someone who (in the NHL) never took a shootout attempt needs to in your replay/league?

What I would do (*), given all of the above, is this - Strat-o-Matic has some algorithm for determining where to place the goal ratings on each skater's outside, inside, and rebound/breakaway columns. It seems to be tied to the "tendency" rating, but I would first make the cards so that the Reb/Bkwy column was accurate for shootout results, and then I would allocate Outside vs. Inside using the remaining goal ratings. For goaltenders who performed markedly differently in shootouts vs. the rest of the game, you could either have two columns on the goalie card (currently there's only one), or just modify certain results on the already-existing column.

Now, 99% of you could care less about Strat-o-Matic, but there you go. :)

(*) Meaning that it's the furthest thing from what will happen.

[DoctorNo]

I should add that some things on that site need to be updated, but I don't run the website any more so my input is limited. Boo hoo.

[DoctorNo]

I don't know who is officially in charge of the NHL's schedule, but the fact that the Avalanche were at home just about every night up until Exam C, and are now constantly on the road, bothers me.

At least if I work things right, I can sit here at home and watch hockey for the next twelve hours. About the time Flyers/Bruins ends, Sens/Islanders should come on. After that's over, the Red Wings and Ducks will be just underway. Then comes the Avs and Blue Jackets, and then I'll turn to Edmonton-Calgary. During intermission, it'll be time to flip around to other games.

And I woke up at 5:00 this morning...TO PLAY HOCKEY! What a day!

[DoctorNo]

Two questions:

(1) How many goals are going to be scored in the second period of this Boston - Philadelphia game?

(2) How many digits will the scoreboard in Boston hold?

[DoctorNo]

After watching Donald Brashear take a puck to his forehead, I'll use my 2000th post to talk about the benefits of wearing a visor.

Granted, most professional hockey players aren't college graduates, but you'd think that they would realize the value of protecting one of their most valuable assets. Especially as fast as the game is these days, you can't possibly react in time.

It's weird when us goalies are the smart ones.

[Uncle Larry]

There's a guy with a visor on running around like he's King Kong out there. He's not going to back it up.

[DoctorNo]

But that's a respect issue, not a visor issue. Get rid of the instigator penalty, and you'll deal with most of that in my opinion.

[Irish Blues]

Back to breakaways....

I have a book I got a few years ago on learning to play hockey - one of the things that was suggested was that since everyone is *so* used to things going fast, the best strategy for the shooter was to go slow. That way, the goalie (expecting things to go fast) is more likely to commit and make the first move, thus allowing the shooter to dictate things. The better suggestions were to go in fast and then slow down dramatically, or to go in slowly then speed up late. Either way, then the shooter is dictating the pace and will have the advantage.

Another idea (very rarely used) is to use the toe of the skate to push across the front of the slot when given the chance - typically the goalie will expect a shot quickly, the defense is waiting to go after the rebound and it gives the shooter a huge advantage.

If anyone is interested, I'll dig it out and pass on the title and author. I thought it was a *very* good read, and it's got things anyone from 4-year old beginners to 44-year old beer leaguers can learn and use.

[seabass]

I like the option Marek Malik used. Anyone have a direct download link to that goal last night?

[DoctorNo]

Steve Konowalchuk, done for the season. I think I'm going to puke.

IB, I'd be interested in the name/author of that book when you get a chance. Thanks!

[MountainHawk]

Malik's goal was technically illegal, as it moved away from the goal for awhile. That said, they'll never call it, and it was an incredible goal.

[hardinda]

Sabres 6-0-0-1 in their last 7, guess Lindy Ruff's prediction of atleast .750 for the rest of November was right on ... they have 1 more game at Pittsburgh.

[Mike and Maddog]

THE FLYERS LOSE AGAIN!!!
:lol:

5 OUT of 7!!!

:lol:

SCNW!!!

:lol:

[Uncle Larry]

Malik's goal was technically illegal, as it moved away from the goal for awhile. That said, they'll never call it, and it was an incredible goal.Those are hard to tell, did it actually move backwards, or was it moving forward at a slower pace than Malik, making it look like it moved backwards?

Either way, on a lot of dekes the guy will pull the puck back. You're right, they'll never call it on a deke, only if the guy is really stopping and pulling it back.

[MountainHawk]

Yeah, I really only expect it to be called if the player stops forward progress, not the puck.

[The African Queen]

Is Jagr the MVP for the first quarter of season? Is there anyone in hockey who means more to his team? I can picture the Rangers record without him being reversed. Yes, their goaltending has been really good also, but Jagr has been dominant (except in Shootouts).

[Uncle Larry]

Is Jagr the MVP for the first quarter of season? I can't think of anyone more valuable. There are a few other guys but I really don't think it's close.

[hardinda]

Is Jagr the MVP for the first quarter of season? Is there anyone in hockey who means more to his team? I can picture the Rangers record without him being reversed. Yes, their goaltending has been really good also, but Jagr has been dominant (except in Shootouts).

Jagr has been good, but I don't think he is the MVP of the 1st qtr. I'd give that to Dominik Hasek. Leads in GAA, and tied for lead in Save % and Wins. His team is also 18-3. He is 13-3. That's dominating.

[Uncle Larry]

So Emery is 5-0 with the Sens. Sounds like they do ok without Hasek. What would the Rangers look like without Jagr?

[hardinda]

So Emery is 5-0 with the Sens. Sounds like they do ok without Hasek. What would the Rangers look like without Jagr?
They'd still have great goaltending, a great PK and just wouldn't score as many goals.

What is wrong with NYR PP? I was just looking at their stats, I'd expect it to be much better with a high caliber player like Jagr.

[hardinda]

Sabres @ Penguins tonight, No Mario, so I expect the Penguins to maybe try for once.

Still think the Sabres should win, it'd be nice to finish November 7-0-0-1.

Flyers play the Islanders, wonder if the Flyers can get out of their skid?

Thrashers play Carolina, Thrashers have been giving Carolina tough games.

Should be a good night of hockey.

[DoctorNo]

Kristian Huselius is an interesting name out there on the waiver wire. Two-time 20-goal scorer for $1.2 million? Hopefully he's still there when Colorado has the option - with Konowalchuk out, we could use him.

[MountainHawk]

Colton Orr was picked up by the Rangers, according to TSN. Thiabault and Huselius are out there ... both interesting.

[Irish Blues]

Gamache was picked up by St. Louis.

The bigger note is that Ron Hainsey was claimed by Columbus after the Habs tried to bring him back up and he didn't clear recall waivers - meaning the Habs are stuck with the pro-rated part of $275,000 (half of Hainsey's salary) for the rest of the season and they can't get rid of it.

[MountainHawk]

I thought they got rid of it if Columbus traded him ... i.e., only Columbus can get the benefit of the 50/50 deal.

[Mike and Maddog]

Sabres @ Penguins tonight, No Mario, so I expect the Penguins to maybe try for once.

Still think the Sabres should win, it'd be nice to finish November 7-0-0-1.

Flyers play the Islanders, wonder if the Flyers can get out of their skid?

Thrashers play Carolina, Thrashers have been giving Carolina tough games.

Should be a good night of hockey.

According to TSN, super mario will play.

"Penguins captain Mario Lemieux (virus) will play against the Sabres, as well as Sidney Crosby. Marc-Andre Fleury will get the start in net."

[hardinda]

According to TSN, super mario will play.

"Penguins captain Mario Lemieux (virus) will play against the Sabres, as well as Sidney Crosby. Marc-Andre Fleury will get the start in net."

Really? that'd be great, nothing like a 50% Mario in the lineup so he really won't try. I haven't been impressed with him at all this season, he has been super lazy away from the puck and is showing more and more every game why he should be retired.

[Uncle Larry]

he has been super lazy away from the puckHave you seen him play much since about 1994?

[MountainHawk]

Beginning to sound like Keith Primeau's career may be over. :(

[Irish Blues]

I thought they got rid of it if Columbus traded him ... i.e., only Columbus can get the benefit of the 50/50 deal.
I'd have a good answer, but the league hasn't released the damn CBA so I can't tell you for sure.

:swear: :swear: :swear:

[MountainHawk]

It's just a rumor I saw somewhere, it could be wrong or misremembered.

[seabass]

Big thumbs down on the end of the NY-Philly game. That was a stinker.

[MountainHawk]

Flyers dominated most of the game ... Esche needs to go. I almost want to see the Flyers waive Esche and pick up Thibault ... so you know it's bad.

[seabass]

Flyers dominated most of the game ... Esche needs to go. I almost want to see the Flyers waive Esche and pick up Thibault ... so you know it's bad.

I turned on the game when it was 3-2, and probably should have left it right there. It's been this way all year, take an early lead and then sit back and relax. A couple of bad rebound goals later and we're done.

I wasn't even expecting anything after that, and then someone took a soft shot that looked like it went in with a second to go. It looked good, but was called off. I thought initially it was just because there wasn't enough evidence to overturn the call, but then I caught this gem from Yashin on the post-game:

"The puck went in, and the referee admitted that he had blown the whistle before the puck went in and apologized," Islanders captain Alexei Yashin said. "It was a really tough break. It would have been great to have the tie at that point, and take our chances in overtime."

:swear: This team is killing me.

[MountainHawk]

I think if the referee goes back and looks at it, he'll realize it was a stick that 'went in', not the puck. The puck never even got near the goal line.

[Real American Hero]

Is it just me, or has goalie interference disappeared as a penalty?

[MountainHawk]

Just you, I think. I've seen it called at least once or twice this season. ;)

[Mike and Maddog]

Flyers dominated most of the game ... Esche needs to go. I almost want to see the Flyers waive Esche and pick up Thibault ... so you know it's bad.


Only comment on the flyers when they win? No surprise.

flyers were saved by the whistle. ref admitted the puck went in but after the whistle.

[MountainHawk]

No ... pretty sure I've been in this thread almost every day this season.

However, you sure seem to do nice disappearing acts during losing streaks over in this thread: http://www.actuarialoutpost.com/actuarial_discussion_forum/showthread.php?t=51976

[hardinda]

7-0-0-1, without Miller, Dumont, Briere and Pyatt (last 3-5 games for the last 3). Any believers out there yet?

[MountainHawk]

LOL ... I've already given you that the Sabres are a playoff team. I still think they finish 3rd behind OTT and MTL, assuming Kovalev gets back sometime soon. Edit ... and that's one too many numbers in the record.