The high skilled, high profile, and high paid players of the NHL emerged last night in a big way... well most of them did anyway.
In San Jose, the Sharks newest acquisition, super forward Dany Heatley finally delivered for his new club. During the Sharks home opener, Heatley joined the NHL Hat Trick club and helped lift his team to a 6-3 victory over the Columbus Blue Jackets. Joe Thornton tied a Sharks record by assisting on 4 of those goals.
In New York, the Rangers prized forward Marion Gaborik scored two quick goals and snatch a 4-3 victory from the Washington Capitals. Goaltender Henrik Lundqvist also became the first to keep Capitals forward Alexander Ovechkin off the score sheet.
The Buffalo Sabres forward Thomas Vanek scored a late power play goal to help his club to a 2-1 victory over the unstoppable Phoenix Coyotes.
In St. Louis, the Blues opened at home for the first time and were defeated by the Atlanta Thrashers 4-2. Thrashers forward Ilya Kovalchuk scored his 300th career NHL goal, then later deposited his 301st. Kovalchuk now has two back to back two goal games to open the season... not bad for a guy in a contract year. Atlanta better lock him up now.
The Calgary Flames remained undefeated last night as they tied the Edmonton Oilers 3-3 with little more than a second remaining in the game, then went on to complete the comeback win 4-3 on an Olli Jokinen shootout goal.
Quick Shave:
The New Jersey Devils and Detroit Red Wings picked up their first victories of the season, and the Pittsburgh Penguins shut down the Philadelphia Flyers handing them their first defeat of the season. The panic around the league, especially in Canada regarding the slow starts that some of their clubs have gotten off to is borderline hilarious. The Canucks, Red Wings, and Sharks all got off to horrendous starts, and many of the NHL's elite goaltenders have had games they'd love to forget. Speculation about what Steve Yzerman will do regarding Team Canada's goaltending because of the awful play of Roberto Luongo, Martin Brodeur and Cam Ward has many leaning towards Steve Mason.
I say to everyone... RELAX. The season is barely a week old. For you fans of teams that have stumbled out of the gate... it's ok... your clubs will get going. On the flip side, you fans of clubs who've rocketed out to a fast start.... don't get overly excited because it could come to a crashing halt. Enjoy your beer, and your hockey my friends, this is just the beginning.
Sharks acquire Campbell from Sabres, Tampa trades Richards to Dallas
The first big trade of the day is done.
The Buffalo Sabres sent defenceman Brian Campbell to the San Jose Sharks in exchange for forward Steve Bernier and a first round draft pick. The Sabres were unable to come to an agreement with Campbell on a contract extension and opted to trade the star d-man rather than risk losing him as an unrestricted free agent this summer. Campbell has 5 goals and 43 points in 63 games this season.
The Dallas Stars and Tampa Bay Lightning have agreed on a trade for forward Brad Richards. Both teams now were waiting to see if Richards would waive his no-trade clause and confirm the deal. The Tampa Bay Lightning send forward Brad Richards and goaltender Johan Holmqvist to the Dallas Stars in exchange for goaltender Mike Smith, center Jeff Halpern and winger Jussin Jokinen. Looks like Modano gets his winger.
The New Jersey Devils acquired defenceman Bryce Salvadore from the St. Louis Blues for forward Cam Janssen earlier today and the Toronto Maple Leafs sent tough guy Wade Belak to the Florida Panthers for 5th round pick.
That was something really special yesterday. Pond hockey in front of a crowd of over 70,000 people.
The Winter Classic lived up to it's billing yesterday, for the NHL players, and it's fans as the Pittsburgh Penguins defeated the Buffalo Sabres 2-1 in a game that saw snow, freezing rain, more snow, overtime and a shootout. Sidney Crosby made the afternoon count by beating Sabres goaltender Ryan Miller between the pads for the shootout winner.
The conditions may not have been perfect for the cleanest of play, but they were perfect in my opinion for this event. The NHL may have found a great marketing tool yesterday. Every radio program and news channel has been talking about the match. Perhaps it's a step to putting the NHL back on the map in the U.S. Hopefully they will continue to make this a regular event every year.
Our Playoff Beard.com correspondent in Buffalo, Michelle, was sitting pretty at the game in Section 330, and provided us with some great stills of the game. Special Thanks to her for her efforts and braving the cold! Enjoy!
The Boston Bruins have themselves another new goaltender.... welcome Alex Auld everyone! Auld joins Tim Thomas, Manny Fernandez, and Tuuka Rask in what is now the most heavily populated crease in the NHL.
Since being scooped up from the Phoenix Coyotes off of waivers (a casualty of the Ilya Bryzgalov acquisition), Auld has been near flawless in net for the Bruins. In his second straight game, Auld made 44 saves to help his new club to a 4-1 victory over the Buffalo Sabres. Auld made 25 saves to defeat the Toronto Maple Leafs on Saturday night 2-1 (ending the Leafs win streak) in his first game wearing black and gold. He will have ample opportunity in Boston to showcase his stuff as Tim Thomas recovers from a groin injury. Marc Savard had a big game for the Bruins, scoring one goal and assisting on another.
So what is up with the Buffalo Sabres? Yes they lost two huge players in Daniel Briere and Chris Drury to unrestricted free agency, but they weren't the only reason the Sabres made it to the Eastern Conference Finals last season, were they? What's happened to Maxim Afinogenov? What happened to Thomas Vanek? Miller anyone? Perhaps this team is coming off a playoff hangover of sorts and has had a slow start? The Sabres were the class of the NHL last season, and rode the pole position for most of the year... now they are just 3 points removed from being the worst team in the NHL. MEDIC!
Quick Shave:
A night after having their nine game winning streak snapped by Brendan Shanahan and the New York Rangers, the New Jersey Devils started a new streak, by losing their second in a row last night, this time to the Washington Capitals 3-2. Jason Blake looks like he may be finding the scoring touch that landed him a lucrative free agent contract and a shiny new address in Toronto. Blake scored (along with twin towers Mats Sundin, and Nik Antropov... among others) and helped the Toronto Maple Leafs hammer the Tampa Bay Lightning 6-1. Anaheim Ducks defenceman Chris Pronger scored an overtime winner to help his club to a 4-3 victory over the Columbus Blue Jackets (who aren't the pushovers they once were). The Los Angeles Kings sophomore center Anze Kopitar was one of the NHL's three stars last week, and it's great to see the kid finally getting some recognition. I've been watching Kopitar since last season (in a purely heterosexual manner mind you) and even picked him up on one of my fantasy rosters then (this year he was a no brainer pick). Kopitar was over shadowed by Evgeni Malkin's rookie campaign last year, but has continued to roll in his second season. He had 8 points last week, and is currently riding a six game point scoring streak (7 after tonight), and has 30 points (13 goals, 17 assists) on the year. His defensive game still needs some improvement, but that is something every player on the Kings really should address. The Kings have their work cut out for them if they want to make the post season (and keep me from looking like an ass... although my Flyers pick is still holding water).
Game of the Night:
Pittsburgh at Philadelphia 7:00 PM
After laying waste to Western Canada, the Pittsburgh Penguins return home to Pennsylvania for a nice rivalry matchup against Flyers. Enjoy the games!
I think alot of writers may have been wrong with their initial assessments of the New York Islanders. Myself included.
The New York Islanders looked pretty sharp last night in a back and forth battle with the Buffalo Sabres that saw the Isles capture a 6-4 win on the road in Western New York. The Islanders newly acquired top line of Ruslan Fedotenko (1 goal, 2 asssists), Bill Guerin (2 assists), and Mike Comrie (2 goals, 2 assists) immediately clicked last night. The Islanders power play provided three of the goals.
Before the game the Islanders were asked what they would consider a successful season, and most provided the artificial canned answers, like making the playoffs, playing to the best of our abilities, etc.... but Isles goaltender nailed his point. "Winning the Stanley Cup. Anything else is a failure." You gotta love that guy.
The Buffalo Sabres looked pretty good last night on 5 on 5, but their penalty kill needs some work. They still pounce on turnovers and make their opponents pay for their mistakes (hence the 4 goals allowed by the Islanders) but they also provide many of their own. The Sabres should get big years from Thomas Vanek and Drew Stafford (who both scored last night) and I expect that many of their games this season will be high scoring affairs like last nights. The Sabres and Islanders will face off again tonight in Uniondale, Long Island to wrap up the home and home series.
Quick Shave:
Remember in NHL 94 when Jeremy Roenick was unstoppable? You could do anything with him and you'd score.... especially that breakaway deke move that the goaltenders were never able to stop (personally I was a Theo Fluery man, but that's a story for another day). In any case, Roenick's signing by the San Jose Sharks was an afterthought over the summer, as an opportunity to acquire some affordable veteran leadership for their young team, and give Roenick the chance to eclipse the 500 goal mark that is within his reach. Before last night's game against the Vancouver Canucks, Roenick was five shy of the 500 club.... after the game however he found himself within 3. Yes, Jeremy Roenick led his San Jose Sharks to victory over the Canucks 3-1, providing two of the goals in the win. The Sharks did look pretty solid last night, and following the Anaheim Ducks template, are big, fast and very physical much to Vancouver's dismay. They will be a chore to beat this year. The Canucks didn't look bad, they just fell behind early and were never able to regain the lost ground. Rookie Ryan Shannon had 3 or 4 gift-wrapped opportunities but was unable to bury the chances.... this kid looked good, and was in the right place at the right time. Fantasy owners should watch list this kid, because once he learns how to finish he will start getting goals in bunches. The Canucks started slow last year, and didn't really find their offence till after Thanksgiving, so be patient... they will be there.
Game of the Night:
NY Rangers at Ottawa 7:00
If the Rangers want to win the Stanley Cup they are going to have to march through the Ottawa Senators to get there. Tonight is a great bench test for this club as well as the Sens. Enjoy the games!
I just heard this on Mic'd up with Mike Francesca tonight that the NHL will be playing another regular season game out of doors (the last being the Oilers vs. the Habs post Hall of Fame game a few years ago) this year..... well this season.
January 1st, 2008 will see the Pittsburgh Penguins face off against the Buffalo Sabres in an outdoor match at Ralph Wilson Stadium.
This is a great move for the NHL and something that should be come a standard every season, and perhaps more than just one matchup. This is the kind of marketing the NHL needs. For a hockey hater like Francesca to talk hockey on a Football Sunday really speaks volumes.
Midway through the first overtime period, Ottawa Senators Captain Daniel Alfredsson (I apologize for the illustration, I've been trying to avoid using it all season since I think it makes Alfie look like a cross between a Hobbit, and a Dr. Seuss character.... nevertheless, the man deserves to be recognized, crappy drawing or not) put a wrist shot past Ryan Miller and closed the door on the Buffalo Sabres with a 3-2 win. The Senators won the series 4-1 and are now headed to the Stanley Cup Finals.
Credit is owed to this club who have shut down every opponent they have faced this season, including the President Trophy Winning Sabres. Daniel Alfredsson has been impressive scoring 4 game winning goals and recording 17 points (10 goals, 7 assists) so far this post season. Dany Heatley leads all players in scoring with 21 points (6 goals, 15 assists) and is trailed by linemate Jason Spezza with 20 points (7 goals, 13 assists) (I know this is off topic, but Mike Milbury actually traded the pick that would become Jason Spezza, and defenceman Zdeno Chara (Bill Muckalt was tossed in for seasoning) to Ottawa for Alexei Yashin..... he should be shot in front of the Colliseum for that move alone.... Islanders fans, Spezza would have been the perfect player for you to build a team around... i really digress). Goaltender Ray Emery has been amazing. 12 wins, and 3 by shutout.... this kid has really answered the bell. Ottawa has lost only one time in each of three playoff rounds and are now within four victories of bringing the Stanley Cup back to Canada.
Quick Shave:
I had a funny thought yesterday while watching the game. The Senators backup goaltender is Martin Gerber, who won a Stanley Cup with the Carolina Hurricanes last season. He was also relegated to backup duty in favor of Cam Ward last playoffs. He is in a position to win his second Stanley Cup consecutively with a different team. The last player to achieve that was Cory Stillman I believe, with the Tampa Bay Lightning, and the aforementioned Hurricanes.
The NHL has got to do something about their broadcast partnership. What happened yesterday is almost unforgiveable. NBC carried the regulation broadcast, but when the game went to overtime, the broadcast shifted to Versus in favor of a horse race, unless you live in the Buffalo area. That is pathetic. Why even put the game on NBC in the first place? Versus has done a terrific job with the NHL, and I would have no issue with them extending their commitment, on one condition. Distribution. Versus must become a part of every basic cable package, otherwise forget it. That is a deal breaker. I can't tell you how many faithful Ranger fans I know who missed precious playoff games, because their cable provider doesn't carry Versus. The Versus network, must correct this, or the NHL must move on. Either way, what happened yesterday is a disaster. It cheapens the product, and destroys what little credibility the NHL has left. Address this issue now.
Game of the Night:
Anaheim at Detroit 3:00 PM
All tied up as we head back to Detroit for a pivotal (love that term too!) Game 5. We get the return of Chris Pronger who will surely have a mean on for this one (and the Canadian media apparently). Enjoy the game!
The Sabres stay alive. Finally a ray of hope... and not the Ray that has been stellar in net for the Ottawa Senators all series (and all post season for that matter).
The Buffalo Sabres staved off elimination and forced a Game 5 by defeating (narrowly) the Ottawa Senators 3-2. Derek Roy, Maxim Afinogenov, and Chris Drury scored for the Sabres and Ryan Miller made 31 saves to prevent the sweep by the Senators. Chris Drury's goal was the 15th game winner of his playoff career, and ties the record for first all time (I forget the gentleman who holds it because I am paraphrasing from the broadcast, so I apologize..... it may have been Jean Béliveau, but don't quote me)..... is he Captain Clutch or what?
So do the Sabres have the stones to mount an improbable comeback? How will the Senators respond in Game 5? If the Sabres can win game 5, pressure will certainly shift to the Senators, and I think we will see them panic. However, the Senators have 3 opportunities to close out this series, and the pressure is clearly on the Sabres right now. No mistakes, and once again, adversity is in their faces.
Quick Shave: Anaheim Ducks defenceman Chris Pronger was suspended for one game by the NHL for his hit to the head on Detroit Red Wings forward Tomas Holstrom in Game 3. Pronger will have to sit out Game 4, and watch his Ducks try to tie up the series. Pronger wasn't very effective in stopping a highly productive Red Wings attack in Game 3 regardless, perhaps that is why he took out Holmstrom before he scored any more goals.... one more and he would have joined the HTC.
Adversity. The one thing that can make or break a champion. Resilience in the face of said adversity will often determine who will become that champion.
The Ottawa Senators are proving to be the better at facing and overcoming that adversity. Battling back from a 2-0 defecit, and also rebounding from another superb game tying goal with second to go in the game, the Senators are more determined to go all the way than I have ever seen them.
Losing 2-0, the Senators responded with three unanswered goals to lead 3-2, until Sabres forward tied it with late game heroics that have become standard for Buffalo with less than 6 seconds to play and forced overtime. Senator Joe Corvo scored early in the second overtime to lift his team to a 4-3 victory and a 2-0 series lead.
The Sabres who have showed tremedous resolve in the playoffs this year have their backs against the wall and must rebound hard on the road.... a task that will not be easy. However if any team can pull it off, I believe it is this Buffalo Sabres team.
For the record.... Daniel Briere's playoff beard is worse than that thing that Daniel Alfredsson is trying to grow on his face.... which I am unable to label as a beard.
Game of the Night:
Anaheim at Detroit 7:30 PM
Anaheim will try to find a way to solve Dominik Hasek tonight. Will they bring their 'A' game, play 60 minutes and give it 110%, or will Hasek be equal to the task? Tune in to find out!
The Ottawa Senators bounced out to a quick 2-0 lead early in the first on a short handed score by Mike Fisher, then minutes later on a powerplay goal by Daniel Alfreddson. The Sabres appeared to get back into the game with a goal by Maxim Afinogenov and a tying goal by Toni Lydman midway through the second.
I the third period it was all Ottawa. Oleg Saprykin scored the game winner 7 minutes in to the last period, Jason Spezza added some insurance with Ottawa's second powerplay goal of the game, and Dean McAmmond sealed the win with the late empty netter.
The Sabres looked like they had a lot of trouble penetrating the Ottawa defense which seemed to stand them up on the blue line. The usually strong on the boards Sabres also looked to lose alot of those battles to the Senators. Turnovers. The Sabres can't cough the puck up to this team. The Senators are unlike the Rangers and Islanders, they play error free hockey (or pretty close to it) and are not going to give you many chances, but like the Sabres, if you make a mistake they will make you pay for it. Game 2 will be a gem.
Game of the Night:
Anaheim at Detroit 7:30 PM
I don't need to discuss this. Friday night hockey. Come on, you'll be there. Enjoy the game!
The Buffalo Sabres are truly a gifted group of players. Stacked from top to bottom, and cemented in net. This team has destiny written all over it.
The New York Rangers tried desperately to stave (ahhh our favorite term) off elimination and force a game 7 but it just wasn't to be. Caught in a shootout with Buffalo that saw the Sabre score 4 goals in less than 10 minutes, the Rangers were unable to keep pace and eventually fell 5-4. The Sabres got a big game from Jochen Hecht who scored two including the game winner, Chris Drury scored and added an assist, and Daniel Briere set up three, including the series clincher. The Sabres finished off the Rangers 4-2 in the series.
The New York Rangers took a big step forward again this year, considering they were out of the playoffs by a longshot in February. The team battled hard down the stretch to make the post season, and certainly made their presence felt. Henrik Lundqvist move towards becoming an elite level goaltender and his play late in the season help secure a Vezina Trophy nod. Jaromir Jagr is once again playing some of his best hockey, and has helped Michael Nylander to a pair of career seasons. Rookie Ryan Callahan should be a fun player to watch next year as he blossomed in the post season. Lots to look forward to in the years to come for the boys in blue.
For the Sabres, they once again meet up with the Ottawa Senators which should be an amazing Eastern Conference Final Matchup. The Senators were one of the few teams to give the Sabres difficulty during the regular season (the other being the Habs), and this 7 game series should be a beauty!
Game of the Night:
Detroit at San Jose 9:00 PM
The Red Wings can wrap it all up tonight in San Jose and look forward to taking on the Anaheim Ducks who are already waiting for their opponent. The Sharks will look to do some staving of their own tonight and force a game 7. Enjoy the game!
7 seconds away from taking a 3-2 lead in the series, Buffalo Sabres forward Chris Drury took the wind out of the sails of the New York Rangers.... and made everyone in the NYC area collectively throw up. Drury's goal tied the game 1-1 minutes after Martin Straka beat Ryan Miller for the lone Rangers score. Just minutes into the overtime period Sabres forward Maxim Afinogenov capitalized on a power play opportunity to life the Sabres to the 2-1 win, and a 3-2 series lead.
What a game. Especially by the goaltenders who were beyond brilliant. Henrik Lundqvist, and Ryan Miller strutted their stuff for 56 minutes, not allowing a single goal.
Prior to the game my heart dropped, and I saw a cloud rise over the Rangers, and I'll tell you why. Rangers forward Matt Cullen who was sporting one of this post season's finest playoff beards (so well grown was his face mane that I mentioned on the Face Off Hockey Show just two nights ago) decided to trim said beard into a goatee. Have we learned nothing over the past year folks? Did Michael Peca not teach us that shaving a playoff beard is bad? Well the Playoff Beard curse surfaced last night.... and now the Rangers find themselves in a hole they must climb out of..... otherwise they will be putting little white balls into holes next week.
Quick Shave:
The Anaheim Ducks are back in the Western Conference finals once more after defeating the Vancouver Canucks 2-1 and closing out the series in 5 games (predicted handsomely by the Bosher!). Ducks defenceman Scott Niedermayer scored the game winner and series clincher early in the second overtime period. The Ducks now wait to discover who their foe will be following the Detroit Red Wings and San Jose Sharks series.
Game of the Night:
San Jose at Detroit 2:00 PM
Ottawa at New Jersey 8:00 PM
New Jersey is on the brink and must battle back from a 3-1 series defecit against the Ottawa Senators. The Sens can wrap things up tonight. Detroit has battled back, and look to take a 3-2 series lead against the Sharks today. Enjoy the games!
The New York Rangers defeated the Buffalo Sabres 2-1 last night. Barely.
With 17 seconds remaining, New York Rangers goaltender Henrik Lundqvist made his biggest save of the night, preventing a shot by Daniel Briere from completely crossing the line. A long video review disallowed the would be tying goal. New York got power play goals from captain Jaromir Jagr and Brendan Shanahan. Henrik Lundqvist made 29 saves to complete the win, and tie the series 2-2.
Home ice advantage has been big for both teams in this series. The Battle for New York returns to Buffalo for a Friday night Game 5 matchup. Could Bosh have actually been right in calling this series in 7 games? Probably not, but it is nice to dream.
Quick Shave:
The Vancouver Canucks spirits may very well have been crushed last night. Leading 2-0 in the third period, they watched the Anaheim Ducks storm back on goals by Chris Pronger, and Teemu Selanne (has this poor guy taken a beaten this post season or what? Selanne caught a stick in the mouth last night, and now has more stitches in his face than his jersey) to force overtime. Ducks Travis Moen deposited the game winner two minutes into the extra period and gave the Ducks the 3-2 win, and the 3-1 series lead. The series returns to Anaheim for game 5 Thursday night.
Vancouver finally got a goal from Brendan Morrison, and some production from Markus Naslund as well, but all in a losing effort. What happened to these guys? Naslund looks like he is barely clinging to his last shred of confidence, and Morrison? Do these guys miss Bertuzzi that much? According to the Hockey News, neither is on the Canucks top power play unit.
Ducks defenceman Scott Niedermayer is certainly sporting a Norris calibre chin right now. Is that a playoff beard or what? He and his brother Rob will be on the Tonight Show this evening with Jay Leno, perhaps to discuss their formidable chin mullets.
Captain Bosh was actually interviewed by the gang over at NBC in Buffalo where playoff beards are growing like the RAGE virus (like that 28 Days Later reference?.... you might even think Bosh is getting kickbacks since the sequel is coming out next week, but you'd be wrong..... I'm just clever, and a big fan of zombies who terrorize London). Josh Boose wrote a lovely article which referenced the playoff beard, and the players and fans who grow them. To check out the story click here!
The NHL Award Nominees were released yesterday, and the list was for the most part free of surprises (well, I guess that's debatable):
Hart Memorial Trophy (MVP)
Sidney Crosby - Pittsburgh Penguins
Martin Brodeur - New Jersey Devils
Roberto Luongo - Vancouver Canucks
No shock here really. Remove these guys from their teams and none of them would have made the post season.
Lester B. Pearson Award (best player voted by the players)
Sidney Crosby - Pittsburgh Penguins
Roberto Luongo - Vancouver Canucks
Vincent Lecavalier - Tampa Bay Lightning
Vezina Tropy (best goaltender)
Martin Brodeur - New Jersey Devils
Roberto Luongo - Vancouver Canucks
Miikka Kiprusoff - Calgary Flames
Henrik Lundqvist - New York Rangers
Yes four options this year, because Kiprusoff and Lundqvist were actually tied for third in voting. I'm actually a little shocked that Hasek didn't get a nod this year. Red Wings look like their old selves with him between the pipes again.
James Norris Memorial Trophy (best defenceman)
Nicklas Lidstrom - Detroit Red Wings
Chris Pronger - Anaheim Ducks
Scott Niedermayer - Anaheim Ducks
Jack Adams Trophy (best coach)
Lindy Ruff - Buffalo Sabres
Michel Therrien - Pittsburgh Penguins
Alain Vigneault - Vancouver Canucks
No love for Ted Nolan? The Islanders were picked to finish 30th in the NHL, and I seem to remember seeing them in the playoffs. Don't worry Teddy, you're back. We know.
Calder Trophy (best rookie)
Evgeni Malkin - Pittsburgh Penguins
Jordan Staal - Pittsburgh Penguins
Paul Stastny - Colorado Avalanche
Los Angeles Kings center Anze Kopitar?
Frank J. Selke Trophy (best defensive forward)
Rod Brind'Amour - Carolina Hurricanes
Samuel Pahlsson - Anaheim Ducks
Jay Pandolfo - New Jersey Devils
Shouldn't their also be an award for the best offensive defensive? Fair is fair.
Lady Byng Memorial Trophy (most gentlemanly player)
Three guys who should be ashamed of themselves
Game of the Night:
New Jersey at Ottawa 7:00 PM
Detroit at San Jose 10:00 PM
San Jose and Ottawa are flexing their muscle. Can Detroit and New Jersey flex back, or will they break? Watch the games and find out!!
It took almost 100 minutes yesterday, but the New York Rangers finally found a way to defeat the Buffalo Sabres yesterday afternoon.
Rangers defenceman Michael Rozsival fired a shot from the point late in the second overtime period to lift New York to the 2-1 victory over the Sabres. Jaromir Jagr scored for the Rangers during the second period, but their undisciplined play once again cost them as the Buffalo Sabres capitalized on a power play to tie it in the third (compliments of Daniele Briere).
The Sabres hold a 2-1 series lead, and the Rangers will look to tie it at 2 before travelling back to Western New York for Game 5.
The Playoff Beards in this series are really starting to blossom. Rangers defenceman Michael Rozsival while sporting a fine slap shot, is also sporting a great playoff beard. Rangers forward Matt Cullen is already into the Geico Commercial phase of his beard growth. The Sabres Brian Campbell is looking more and more like GI Joe's favorite arctic trooper Snow Job.
Quick Shave:
The Anahiem Ducks defeated the Vancouver Canucks 3-2 last night and took a 2-1 series lead in Vancouver. Ducks forward Corey Perry scored the game winner and added an assist in the win. Ducks goaltender Jean Sebastien Giguere made 24 saves to complete the win.
Game of the Night:
New Jersey at Ottawa 7:00 PM
Detroit at San Jose 10:00 PM
Both of these series are tied at 1 game a piece. New Jersey heads North to take on the Senators in their backyard, and the Red Wings do likewise as they hit the West coast and the Shark Tank. Enjoy the games!
This morning there are an army of happy fans in Buffalo, New York (and one semi-pleased young lady in Cincinatti, whose support of the playoff beard must continue for at least one more round) as their beloved Sabres advanced to the next round of the playoffs yesterday.
The Sabres defeated the Islander (staved if you will) 4-3 and closed out the series 4-1. The Islanders were once again in the game (aside from Game 1, which the Sabres dominated, the Islanders had an opportunity to win every game) and gave Buffalo quite a scare in the final period last night as they attempted to rally from 3 goals down. The Sabres hung on despite blowing a 4-1 lead, and goaltender Ryan Miller made some key saves late (except for 2) to conclude the series. Sabres forward Maxim Afinogenov scored the game winner and added a helper. The Sabres now wait to find out if they will face the Tampa Bay Lightning, or the New York Rangers.
For the Islanders, this season ends in dissappointment, but there are several positives. The team rallied at the end of the season to make the playoffs after everyone had written them off. Goaltender Rick DiPietro came into his own this season (can I use the word season more often? season, season!), and took a big step toward becoming an elite level keeper. Ted Nolan. Great to have him back in the game and I think he deserves Jack Adams consideration for his role in turning this club around. The Islanders now have an identity with him. Garth Snow, I laughed at you last summer, and I apologize for it. You have proved me wrong sir, as you have done a spectacular job as the GM of the Islanders. Your off season homework? Sign Jason Blake, and Ryan Smyth. You pull that off, and you can consider yourself 'the man'.
Quick Shave:
First off, allow me to give props to Tampa Bay Lightning Coach John Tortorella for his magnificent playoff beard (that beautiful chin mane was so thick I thought I actually saw him hand Wesley Snipes some anti-vampire weapons during the second period). But even Sweet T's beard couldn't stop the power of Brodeur. Unfortunately for the Lightning, the real Marty has arrived. The New Jersey Devils goaltender made 31 saves last night to shutout (the 22nd of his post season career, 1 behind Patrick Roy apparently) the Lightning 3-0, and take a 3-2 series lead. This game was colorful, especially at the end which included a good old fashioned donnybrook between Andre Roy and Mike Rupp, and another between Nolan Pratt and Jamie 'I'd like to buy a vowel' Langenbrunner. There was also a shouting match between the bearded one, Coach Tortorella and the pristinely shaven Devils assistant coach John MacLean across the benches. Looks like the Captain's Curse is taking hold in the West. Two teams I picked to win in the Western Conference have now been summarily executed. The Minnesota Wild who were ousted Thursday night, were joined by another Bosh favorite last night, the Nashville Predators. The Predators lost 3-2 last night to the San Jose Sharks and saw their playoffs go up in smoke. This is a huge let down (on level with the Thrashers) for the Predators who re-tooled for the post season, by adding J. P. Dumont, Jason Arnott over the summer, and picking up Peter Forsberg prior to the trade deadline (for quite a ransome, picks, players, beers, etc.). On a positive note, the Predators do look like they have tremendous support in Nashville as the packed stadium certainly showcased. I think once they translate their regular season success to the playoffs, they will strengthen the foundation for a solid fan base.
Game of the Night:
Calgary at Detroit 3:00 PM
Vancouver at Dallas 8:00 PM
Come on guys! Make Bosh proud. I wish there were some more games on, but sometimes quality over quantity is a good thing. Can Calgary continue their great play, or will they suck eggs on the road again? Turco! Luongo! Dallas! Vancouver! Cats and Dogs living together! Mass Hysteria! Enjoy the games!
Somewhere on Long Island, my buddy Mike is wearing a big smile today. Your goaltender has returned Mike, and with him.... hope.
Rick DiPietro returned to the New York Islanders line up last night against the Buffalo Sabres for Game 2, after being cleared to play on Friday. The Islanders netminder who had been missing in action for three weeks with multiple concussions, looked like his old self. DiPietro made 32 saves and helped inspire his club to a series tying 3-2 win over the Sabres.
The series continues on Long Island for Game 3. Game 2 was a big wake up call for the Sabres. As I stated last week, the Islanders are not a team to be overlooked. I expect to see a Sabres team executing with extreme prejudice on Monday night.
Playoff Beard Alert:
DiPietro is sporting a beautiful face mane right now, but he's had that look going since mid-season (when the Isles were playing their strongest.... coincidence? you know it's not), however if he lets that go... look out! Buffalo Sabres forward, Brian Campbell seems to be going after the GI Joe Snow Job award (won last year by Oilers forward Raffi Torres) as he is sporting some lovely red chin fur right now. Keep an eye on that guy!
Quick Shave:
Jeff you're right, that Senators goal was amazing (I think it was the second for them on the power play... a tic tac toe from Spezza, Heatley to Alfredsson), but it still wasn't enough to stop the CROS-BEARD! I don't quite see the hint of a beard yet, but Crosby's play, as well as the rest of the Penguins have brought the series to a 1-1 tie. The Pittsburgh Penguins defeated the Ottawa Senators 4-3 in another physical matchup that saw Pittsburgh's keeper Marc-Andre Fleury bounce back from a rough Game 1 outting, to make 34 saves and help secure the win. Sidney Crosby scored the game winner mid way through the final period and added an assist on Ryan Whitney's power play goal. The amusing thing to me is that no one is giving the Penguins a chance in this series (yeah Murray, your team is the underdog....). The Penguins converted 2 of their 3 power play opportunites. The Sens converted one of nine chances. This speaks volumes. The Penguins need to play more disciplined, and Senators, well they should play more disciplined too (since the Penguins don't need many opportuties to cash in on), and should work on their special teams. The Senators are feeling the pressure of being an early round knock out again...... underdogs? Righhhht. To make things even sweeter, Game 3 is in Pittsburgh, TONIGHT!! The New York Rangers took a 2-0 series lead over the Atlanta Thrashers yesterday afternoon with a 2-1 victory. Coach Bob Hartley started goalie Johan Hedberg in favor of youngster Kari Lehtonen for the Thrashers and the move while widely panned, could hardly be called a bad one after his performance yesterday. Hedberg made 37 saves last night and gave the Thrashers an opportunity to win the game, however Rangers keeper Henrik Lundqvist was equal to the task (I hate that phrase so much by the way) and secured the win by making 27 saves of his own. For the Rangers, I have to mention the presence of Sean Avery. This guy has changed the organization. He's added a level of grit, toughness, and skill that they haven't seen since Essa Tikkanen was a Ranger. Last night Avery delivered his trademark physical play, scored a goal, and as assist (took 9 shots on net ) and got Kovalchuk and Tkachuk so flustered in the final moments of the game they were both ready to pound him. The Rangers and Thrashers will meet in back to back games on Tuesday and Wednesday this week at Madison Square Garden in New York. The Tampa Bay Lightning thundered (got chils on how lame that was, sorry) back to tie their series with the New Jersey Devils on the legs of a 3-2 win last night. The Lightning's big boys delivered again as Martin St. Louis and Vincent Lecavalier both scored (Lecavalier the game winner) and goaltender Johan Holmqvist made 34 saves to secure the win.
I'd like to thank Jamie Mottram and Dan Steinberg from the Blog Show for highlighting Playoff Beard.com during their broadcast on Friday night. To view the Blog Show broadcast click here, or watch it below. Thanks again for the support guys!
Game of the Night:
Calgary at Detroit 1:00 PM
Ottawa at Pittsburgh 6:00 PM
Anaheim at Minnesota 8:00
Vancouver at Dallas 9:30 PM
Calgary and Minnesota need to get back into their series (especially Minnesota) and will have ample opportunity to do so today. All eyes will really be on the Sens / Pens series which should get ugly tonight. The third period last night started getting nasty, so look for the first periord today to look like the fourth period last night. That probably didn't make much sense but after a few Molson's you'll have a moment and go.... 'AAAHHHHH, that's what Bosh meant'. The goaltending duel continues in Dallas tonight as the Canucks visit the Stars in the late game. Enjoy the games my bearded fuzzies!
Shouldn't it be the Toronto Maple Leaves? Ponder that one.
The Buffalo Sabres will be a tough team to beat this post season for many reasons. The biggest of those is their refusal to quit, regardless of how out of game they may appear. The Toronto Maple Leafs found that out the hard way last night.
The Toronto Maple Leafs took a 4-1 lead early in the third on a pair of scores by Boyd Devereaux, and more than less had the game in control. Then the Sabres turned it on, and mounted their comeback, the ninth time they've done so this season when trailing by more than two goals. Buffalo forwards, Thomas Vanek, Daniel Briere, Jason Pomminville rallied to tie that game and Drew Stafford potted the game winning tally with less than 6 minutes to play. Even though he had a rough night between the pipes, Ryan Miller was shelled throughout the game and had to make 40 saves, including a late try by Leafs captain Mats Sundin.
A little over 9 minutes was all it took for the Sabres to not only take the win, and the NHL league lead in points, but their miraculous comeback did seriuos damage to the Maple Leafs pursuit of a playoff berth. The best part about this game? It was the first part of a home and home. The Leafs will have another opportunity to try and complete a win tonight, as they and the Sabres travel north to Toronto. Can you say game of the night?
Quick Shave:
The Anaheim Ducks clinched a playoff spot last night with their 3-2 OT win over the Dallas Stars. Ducks defenceman Scott Niedermayer scored midway through the extra frame to seal the game for his team, and their invitation to the big dance. Ducks forward Chris Kunitz also had a pair of power play goals in the game. The Edmonton Oilers finally snapped their losing streak which had reached 12 games. Unfortunately the 4-3 shootout victory came against the Colorado Avalanche who are in desperate need of every point as they chase the Calgary Flames for the final playoff spot in the Western Conference.
Everyone is apparently up in arms about fighting in the NHL, following the Colton Orr and Todd Fedoruk scrum that saw Fedoruk kissing the ice afterwards. The saddest thing about this, is that this is the only time the general media will discuss hockey. Fighting's bad, it's disgusting, it's bad for the kids to see, I'm appalled. I remember a time when this country had a pair (and that was a long time ago, now the United States has become a whipped, cowering, overly politically correct facsimile of itself).... now I'm disgusted and appalled with all of you.
I love this game, and everything it offers, and that includes the fighting. What these idiots don't get is that this fight between Orr and Fedoruk was predetermined more than a month ago, when Fedoruk and Hatcher took liberties with the Rangers skill players during their last meeting. A meeting in which Orr was a healthy scratch. The fighting isn't there as a means of brutally beating an opponent (which does happen on occasion as a result), but rather to police the sport from within. Physical play is legal and encouraged, but if you are going to check Jaromir Jagr, a player must understand that it will come with a heavy price. Most of the time following these fights, the combatants actually give each other a congratulatory nod or pat on the back. It's subtle but it's there. They know their role, and I don't believe their intent is to injure. I never want to see anyone hurt, and injuries for the most apart (aside from some bruised knuckles or a bloodied lip) never occur during a scrap.
If fighting was removed from the game, I think the NHL would have to go to a non-checking format. I'm not even kidding. Without fighting, players would be able to take runs at the league's stars and continue to do so with no repercussions. The result? Players like Crosby, and Ovechkin would see their careers become shortened to due to injury. I don't think that is what the NHL is looking for. That being said, why do you think the Washington Capitals signed Donald Brashear last off season, and the Penguins recently picked up Georges Laraque at the trade deadline? Sure, Laraque can play a mean saxaphone, and Brashear is a wizard in the kitchen (try the parfait) but both players bring an aura of protection to the stars of their respective teams. What player won't think twice about checking Crosby knowing that doing so will most certainly mean having to throw down with Laraque, and if you hit Ovechkin? Brashear is going to be hitting you. Alot. In the face.
My friend Jeff was once challenged with the fighting question in hockey and asked why he deemed it necessary. His answer nailed the point and shutdown the argument like Turco on a shootout breakaway.
Hockey is the only sport whose players carry a weapon.
I like that.
Game of the Night:
Buffalo at Toronto 7:00 PM
I expect to see a Toronto Maple Leafs team come out with a vengeance against the Sabres tonight at home (read above). If they don't, they may as well close up shop for the season. Enjoy the games!
The trade for Keith Tkachuk was widely panned by everyone (including myself), but I have to give GM Don Waddell some credit. Yes, he gave up a lot to get the big forward, but he's getting a lot back in return.
Keith Tkachuk scored with less than a minute remaining in the overtime period to lift the Atlanta Thrashers over the Buffalo Sabres 4-3. The win was Atlanta's seventh in a row on home ice, and extended their Southeast Division lead over the Tampa Bay Lightning by 6 points.
The game winner was Tkachuk's 6th goal as a member of the Atlanta Thrashers and his presence (which is huge in front of the net, especially on the power play) seems to have righted this team in playoff bound direction.
Quick Shave:
Let's talk about the Colorado Avalanche for moment. The Avs fought back from a two goal defecit to steal a win from the San Jose Sharks 4-3 last night. That in itself is pretty sweet. Joe Sakic also assisted on all four Avalanche scores, again really cool. What is borderline outstanding, is that the Avs have won 8 of their last 9 games (and beaten some formidable opponents along that stretch) and are now just 4 points out of a playoff spot, held by the Calgary Flames. The Avs and Flames face off twice more before the end of the season.... how great are those games going to be? If the Pittsburgh Penguins and Ottawa Senators meet in the first round of the playoffs it will likely be one of the best series available. The Penguins bested the Sens again with a 4-3 win in the shootout and are now just 2 points behind the New Jersey Devils for the Atlantic Division lead. The only flaw I really see in the Penguins is this. They are winning a lot of their games lately by shootout. Unfortunately that contest is not available in the post season. If the Penguins do anything over this final stretch, it should be working on closing out their games early during regulation or the overtime period. The ability is certainly there, time to execute. Alexander Semin scored a hat trick yesterday afternoon to help the Washington Capitals defeat the Tampa Bay Lightning 7-1. Defeat really isn't a strong enough word. Semin and the Caps knocked the Bolts around.... Semin nearly knocked me out of my Fantasy Hockey playoffs with his production. The Lightning have no goaltending... and I think they realize that, especially after yesterday. They are going to have to count on their big line of Lecavalier, St. Louis, and Richards an awful lot in the playoffs..... and if their opponent can shut down that trio..... life may be easy.
Game of the Night:
Pittsburgh at NY Rangers 7:00 PM
Yeah it's on. Pens are fighting for the Atlantic Division lead, and the Rangers are fighting for their playoff lives. This game should be intense. Crosby at the Garden also means showtime. The kid performs well on the big stage, so look for an exhibition. Enjoy the game!
The NHL Hat Trick Club welcomed back Buffalo Sabres forward Daniel Briere for the second time this season following his three goals in his teams total domination of the Boston Bruins 7-1 last night.
Briere got the second hat trick of his career for the second time this season, and helped the Sabres break out of their three game losing streak. Briere has now scored 11 points (5 goals, 6 assists) in his last 6 games. The Sabres also recieved goals from Jason Pominville, Thomas Vanek, Chris Drury, and Paul Gaustad. Maxim Afinogenov pretty much assisted on everything last night. Martin Biron made 25 saves on the evening.
Briere also became the fifth player on the Buffalo Sabres to record 20 or more goals this season, making them the only team to accomplish that feat thus far. This team appears destined for great things come playoff time.
Quick Shave:
Craig Conroy's return to the Calgary Flames was a successful one, much to the dismay of the Los Angeles Kings last night. Facing his old team the day after he was traded from them, Conroy scored twice, and helped the Flames defeat the Kings 4-1. The Atlanta Thrashers handed the New Jersey Devils their second straight loss (I guessed I cursed them with the Brodeur Vezina talk huh Stache?) 5-4 in the shootout last night, and have drawn even with them in the East. Ilya Kovalchuk scored two goals in the match, and Marian Hossa finished the game in the shootout with the game winner. The New York Islanders blew it last night. This was one of those games where you see the 3-0 lead in the third period and say to yourself....they're done. So I thought. The Detroit Red Wings powered back in the third to force overtime where Henrik Zetterberg potted the game winner midway through overtime to give his team the 4-3 victory. Islanders what happened?! Now I wish I hadn't changed the channel. The Columbus Blue Jackets are stealing a page from the Phoenix Coyotes playoff push handbook, as they took their fourth win in a row last night. The Jackets beat Roberto Luongo (who perhaps I just cursed like Brodeur) and the Vancouver Canucks in the shootout 3-2 on a game winner by Zherdev. Marc-Andre Fleury stopped all 32 Florida Panthers shots he faced last night to hand the Pittsburgh Penguins the 3-0 shutout win.... and now that I have commended him....he is officially cursed. Sorry Stache. The Toronto Maple Leafs beat up on the Carolina Hurricanes last night 4-1, thanks to a pair from Nik Antropov. The Hurricanes are crashing and burning lately, losing four of their last five. The Leafs remain in the hunt for the playoffs just sitting outside the playoff bubble. The Dallas Stars tied their game 2-2 against the San Jose Sharks with 2.2 seconds left on a goal by Phillippe Boucher to force overtime and the eventual shootout. Dallas Stars forward Mike Ribiero scored the game winner for Dallas to take the 3-2 victory. Sharks rookies Ryane Clowe, and Joe Pavelski scored on their first ever shootout attempts last night. Pavelski's goal was especially sweet, ringing both posts behind Turco. Mark Messier expressed his desire yesterday to return to the game in a few years in a general management capacity. I've always pictured him in more of a coaching role, but he appears more interested in creating a competitive roster within the new salary cap era of the NHL. I wish him luck with that endeavour.
Game of the Night:
Phoenix at Anaheim 10:00 PM
Oh yeah! Who won't be watching this one. If you told me this would be a great game to watch in November I would have slapped you and shaved your beard. Now....I offer only a hug, while striking you firmly on the back. The Ducks have returned to form, thanks to the return of most of their core players, and the Coyotes seem to be answering the bell against everyone since their mid-season turn around. This is another big test for the Yotes, but one I won't be surprised to see them pass. Enjoy the games!
This is probably a prelude of things to come for the Buffalo Sabres this year. Captain Daniel Briere was named the MVP of the NHL All Star last night after his five point evening (1 goal, 4 assists), even thought the Eastern Conference All Stars fell 12-9 to the West.
The Ovechkin and Crosby union was held scoreless (except for a lone tally from AO - thanks to Paul on that one!) last night much to the dissapointment of most on-lookers. They were shut down by the West's Guerin, Perreault, and Rolston line, which also contributed 9 points in the match.
The NHL also debuted its new uniforms last night which were rumored to be sleeker, and more form-fitting, but really didn't look drastically different than what is currently employed. To the non-NHL fan, I doubt a difference would be noticed at all. Most players sounded off in a positive manner, especially about the water resistant nature of the fabric which kept the players dryer and lighter. I'm curious to see how the new look jerseys will be applied to the current uniforms in the future, and wonder how long it will be, before they are officially instituted. For more on the new uniforms click here.
Quick Shave:
This could be the end of a career for defenceman Darius Kasparaitis. The New York Rangers have apparently given up on the blue liner who's had a rough year following off season surgery. Kasparaitis has been scratched for the last three games and was officially put on waivers yesterday by the club. The NHL resumes tomorrow with a horde of games that will be mark the beginning of the sprint to the playoffs. As I've said before, the playoffs are pretty much attainable to every team in the league except for the Philadelphia Flyers (who are almost 25 points out at this point). We are going to have a tighter race than we did last season. One more day gang! Hang tight!
The Ottawa Senators continue to own the Buffalo Sabres. Considering the Buffalo Sabres own the rest of the league, this has to be a growing concern for the boys from Western New York. Last night's victory was the fourth time the Senators have beaten the Sabres.
The win was due in large part to the efforts of Senators forward Dany Heatley. Heatley scored three times and successfully joined the NHL Hat Trick club, and also added an assist in the 6-3 victory. Mike Comrie who was acquired from the Phoenix Coyotes earlier in the day arrived in time to be in the lineup made the most of his new opportunity. Comrie contributed two assists in his debut.
Ottawa Senators GM Muckler spoke briefly on his acquisition of Comrie between periods and was happy to land the forward (considering what he gave up for him, I would have to agree) and since they have lost three centers, Comrie could see some considerable ice time, and power play time. If Mike Comrie is available in your fantasy leagues, keep an eye on him.
Quick Shave:
The Vancouver Canucks are really on a roll. Last night they defeated the Dallas Stars 2-1 in a six round shootout. Dallas was the premiere team on the shootout last season, so stealing a win from Turco is impressive. Roberto Luongo made 39 saves for the Canucks. The Los Angeles Kings shutdown the Columbus Blue Jackets last night 3-0. Kings goalie Mathieu Garon made 26 saves for the shutout win. Pittsburgh Penguins owner Mario Lemieux was meeting with Kansas City representatives in an effort to look into the future options for his club. I'm hoping this is just posturing by Lemieux and that the city of Pittsburgh doesn't call his bluff. It would be a shame for the Penguins to leave Pittsburgh, and honestly, I think it would be a bigger shame to see them in Kansas City.
Game of the Night:
Detroit at San Jose 10:30 PM
Do I really need to explain why you should watch this one? Both teams are humming toward the finish line, and this could be a preview to a playoff beard matchup of epic scale in April. Enjoy the games!
I have to admit at the start of the season I was really worried about Cristobal Huet. He had all of the symptoms early on that would indicate he would be embracing a sophomore slump. The boys on the Face Off Hockey Show had a great debate about this with Lyle Richardson from Spector's Hockey. They discussed how often keepers that have amazing first years, or incredible runs during the post season fall flat. The list was long and distinguished.....
Cristobal Huet of the Montreal Canadiens at one point was in danger of losing his starting role to backup goalie David Aebischer, but over the past month has more than ensured he will be number one in Montreal. Last night's performance, was yet another notch in his goal stick as he turned aside 42 Buffalo Sabres shots in a dominant 5-2 victory over the Eastern Conference's best club. The Habs have been one of the few teams that have had an answer for Buffalo's speed, defense, and goaltending (Ottawa being the other), and after trading several tight games with the Sabres, the Canadiens unleashed the KRACKEN!
Christopher Higgins who recently returned to the Habs lineup, scored twice, and Kovaleve, Lapierre and Bouillon also added tallies for the Habs. The Habs trail only the Buffalo Sabres in the Northeast, and would be in second place overall in the Eastern Conference if they weren't in the same division as their rivals.
Quick Shave:
Big night for the HTC. Boston Bruins forward Marco Sturm scored three goals to secure his place in the NHL HTC and help his club defeat the Ottawa Senators 7-2 last night. Zdeno Chara returned to Ottawa for the first time since leaving as a UFA. New York Islanders forward Jason Blake added three goals of his own to lift his team past the New York Rangers for the second time in 2 weeks 5-2....and of course was greeted by the NHL HTC for his efforts. Last night was a goal fest! Three of the winners scored 7 goals (Boston Bruins, Florida Panthers, and Colorado Avalanche), three more scored 5 (Montreal Canadiens, Tampa Bay LIghtning, and Calgary Flames), and three more potted 4 (New York Islanders, St. Louis Blues...yes they finally won, and the Atlanta Thrashers). I guess the keepers took the night off....or the forwards were chugging espresso prior to the games.
Game of the Night:
Columbus at Detroit 7:30 PM
Nashville at Chicago 8:30 PM
Dallas at Anaheim 10:00 PM
The last one is obviously the big one, but all of the games on the Western Night look pretty fun to me. Look for Lindros to join the HTC with three against the Ducks tonight. Right! Enjoy the games my friends!
The Washington Capitals took it to the Buffalo Sabres. I mean really. Not only did the Capitals offence explode for 7 goals (4 of which came in the opening period, which saw Sabres keeper Ryan Miller chased in favor of Biron), but Alexander Ovechkin decked Buffalo Sabres Daniele Briere from behind, forcing Briere face first into the boards in front of the Sabres bench. Ovechkin was given a game misconduct for the hit, and ejected from the game.
The ejection was the first of Ovechkin's career, and the Capitals were forced to play more than half the game with out their leading goal scorer who potted the 17th of the season earlier in the match. Buffalo Sabres' Paul Gaustad and Adam Mair were also given game misconducts for exacting revenge on Ovechkin for the hit. Talk of a suspension for Ovechkin was rampant on Hockey Night in Canada so it will be interesting to see how Campbell plays this one.
Quick Shave:
Ok. I take it back. It's time to get excited about the Ottawa Senators. Not because they hammered the Tampa Bay Lightning 5-2. No. Because of that amazing goal by Ottawa forward Antoine Vermette. Vermette did his best Marek Malik imitation, scoring in close on Johan Holmqvist by shooting between his legs. Vermette added another later in the game to seal the victory for the Sens. The Montreal Canadiens rallied back from a 3-1 defecit in the third period to force overtime and a shootout against the Toronto Maple Leafs. Saku Koivu scored twice in the third to tie the game, and Cristobal Huet shut the doors on the Leafs in the shootout to steal the win 4-3. The injury bug has begun to hit the Edmonton Oilers. After losing Ales Hemsky earlier in the week to a shoulder injury, forward Ryan Smyth fractured his thumb against the Columbus Blue Jackets last night. The Blue Jackets went on to win the game 4-0. The San Jose Sharks clipped the Detroit Red Wings with a goal late in third period by Joe Pavelski. Really late actually. Pavelski scored with less than 6 seconds left in the game to win 3-2. The Sharks have now won 5 in a row. San Jose Sharks forward Jonathan Cheechoo returned from IR. The other juggernaut in California, the Anaheim Ducks also won their 5th straight by defeating the Los Angeles Kings yesterday 4-3. Teemu Selanne scored two in the game, and is on fire since breaking the 500 goal bubble. It's the Erik and Eric show in Carolina. Cole scored one, and Staal tried for the HTC (no really Stache, I double checked bro!) but he was only able to bury two. The Carolina Hurricanes went on to defeat the Boston Bruins 5-2.
Game of the Night:
NY Islanders at NY Rangers 5:00 PM
OH YEAH IT'S ON!! This game is so different than in the past. For the first time in perhaps 15 years, both the Rangers and the Islanders are icing competitive teams and meet for the first time this season at Madison Square Garden! Does it get better than this? Only if you get some Molson trapped in your goatee and find it later during the game....otherwise NO WAY! Enjoy the games beard bandits!
The final match of the season series between the Buffalo Sabres and the New York Rangers was probably the most entertaining to date. The city of Buffalo once again mired in bad weather (along with the most of the country, fought off mother nature throughout the game. Failing lights, and lost broadcasts didn't stop the two squads from putting on another great show.
Unfortunately for the New York Rangers, they weren't able to climb over the hump that is the Buffalo Sabres. Blown out in the first game, the Rangers responded with two great efforts but ended up losing both in overtime. Tonight, the Rangers rallied from a 2 goal defecit provided by Buffalo Sabres Hecht and Campbell to tie the game, and then take the lead on two quick powerplay goals by Nylander and Straka. Martin Straka has been unbelievable this season and a fantasy owner's dream. He has 28 points on the season (14 goals, 14 assists) and is a +13. Not bad for a guy who was considering retirement over the summer. Buffalo Sabres clutch forward Chris Drury tied the game at 3 a piece minutes later, and the game would remain that way till the inevitable shootout.
Buffalo Sabres goaltender Ryan Miller closed the door and stopped all three shooters and Daniel Briere beat Kevin
Weekes to secure the 4-3 win. The next time the two teams will meet will hopefully be in the playoffs. If it does come down to that perhaps the Rangers will finally find a way to beat this team.
Rangers rookie Ryan Callahan made his first ever NHL appearance tonight after making alot of noise with the Hartford Wolfpack of the AHL. Callahan has scored 21 points in 19 games with the Rangers affiliate this season.
Jaromir Jagr had two assists on the evening, and now trails only Marian Hossa of Atlanta for the NHL scoring lead.
Quick Shave:
With all the focus on groin injuries this season, it's amazing that the most fragile groin in the league has quietly moved into a tie for the best GAA in the NHL (according to NHL.com). Detroit Red Wings goalie Dominik Hasek made 20 saves last night to shutout the Minnesota Wild 3-0. The shutout was the 72nd of his career. The Minnesota Wild, much like the Chicago Blackhawks have been hampered by injuries to their star players Marian Gaborik and Pavol Demitra, and have lost 11of their last 15 games. The New Jersey Devils found their scoring touch. Finally! The Devils who couldn't buy a goal out West, lit up the Pittsburgh Penguins 5-2 last night. Pittsburgh rookie Evegeni Malkin was named the Rookie of the Month for November, for the second month in a row. The last time a rookie did pulled that off was by Flyers goalie Ron Hextall in 1986. Malkin had 13 points (7goals, 6 assists) in November. The St. Louis Blues will retire Brett Hull's number 16 next Tuesday night when they face off against the Detroit Red Wings.
Game of the Night:
San Jose at Detroit 7:00 PM
Big night tonight, but these two heavyweights are obviously the special on the menu tonight. May I also suggest a fine aged brew to accompany your game? Enjoy the games my friends!
Now that was a hockey game worthy of being thankful for!
The Montreal Canadiens and the Buffalo Sabres gave us an amazing game of the night. The Buffalo Sabres carried a 1-0 lead for a good part of the match, till Saku Koivu found the equalizer mid way through the third. Montreal Canadiens goaltender Cristobal Huet was sharp. Very sharp. Huet stopped everything that was thrown at him, aside from the opening goal. The game ended tied 1-1 and the two teams went to overtime where defencemen and the Habs leading scorer joined the rush in the final seconds of the extra period and wristed a shot past Buffalo's Ryan Miller with 1 second remaining. 1 second! That's a NICE!
Quick Shave: Ottawa Senators forward Dany Heatley joined the NHL HTC last and his three tallies helped the Senators to a 6-4 win over the Florida Panther, and bring the club to a .500 record. Perhaps all is not lost in Ottawa? The Dallas Stars defenceman Philippe Boucher also punched his ticket to the HTC last night as he scored three of the Stars 5 goals en route to their 5-3 win over the Los Angeles Kings. St. Louis Blues netminder Manny Legace recieved a small measure of revenge against his old squad as he and the Blues defeated the Detroit Red Wings 3-2 in the shootout last night. Ken Hitchcock's first task as the new head coach of tthe Columbus Blue Jackets was to take his new club to face his old club the Philadelphia Flyers. Unfortunately, his presence did more to motivate his old team, as the Flyers defeated the Blue Jackets 3-2. The Pittsburgh Penguins appear lost without Sidney Crosby and are finding it difficult to generate offence. The Crosby-less Pens dropped their 2nd straight to the New York Islanders 3-1 yesterday. The Anaheim Ducks bounced back from a dissapointing shootout loss to Colorado Wednesday night to defeat the visiting New Jersey Devils 4-2. Carolina Hurricanes forward Cory Stillman who's missed the whole season thus far with a shoulder injury is eyeing a return to the Canes lineup sometime in December. Stillman had a monster year with 76 points (22 goals, 55 points) last season.
Game of the Night:
Detroit at Nashville 8:00 PM
Central Division rivals face off tonight. The first place Predators welcome the second place Red Wings for a battle of epic proportions. Ok, I'm hamming that up just a bit, but this should be a good one. The Predators are coming off a solid old school beating of the Canucks on Thanksgiving night and the Red Wings are coming off a loss to those very same Canucks. Enjoy the games!
The New York Rangers still can't solve the Buffalo Sabres. Almost, but not quite. A Sabres team that not only played the evening prior in Toronto, but 3 games in the their last four nights, and a club that is beginning to feel the sting of the injury bug. That same bug that derailed them from earning a Stanley Cup Championship. Forward Maxim Afinogenov will be on the shelf for ab out 2 weeks, with an undisclosed upper body injury. Rumor has it, that it's a separated shoulder.
Even without their most explosive forward, and with Marty Biron, their backup netminder, manning the the net, the Sabres are still a formidable opponent. The Rangers who have begun to play some of their best hockey of late, with Kevin Weekes starting the last three games (goaltending controversy now? he's secured 5 out of a possible 6 points), the Rangers fell to the Buffalo Sabres in overtime 4-3, on a game winner by Daniel Briere, his second tally of the evening.
Ranger's captain Jaromir Jagr had a goal and two assists on the game and now leads the league in scoring with 23 points.
Game of the Night:
Dallas at Vancouver 10:00 PM
Great goaltending match-up between Turco and Luongo, and two great teams....although Vancouver could step it up a bit, and tonight they have the chance. Enjoy the games!
The Toronto Maple Leafs handed the Buffalo Sabres their first regulation loss last night, due in large part to the efforts of their Captain. Mats Sundin, set up Darcy Tucker for the game tying goal, and then scored two more himself, along with Jeff O'Neill in the second period to get the 4-1 victory. Leafs goaltender Andrew Raycroft stopped 29 shots, including 16 in the final period. Tomas Kaberle continued his relentless attack on the scoresheet, by recording an assist on Tucker's goal, his 10th point in 5 games.
The Toronto Maple Leafs have been on a tear since their 7-2 drubbing at the hands of the Ottawa Senators, and have since won 4 of their last 5 games.
Quick Shave:
Are the Philadelphia Flyers really this bad? The Washington Capitals joined a growing group of teams that have recently pounded the boys from Philly. Alexander Ovechkin scored two goals in the first to lift the Capitals to a 5-3 win over the Flyers. He now has 16 points on the season. The Flyers have only 3 wins this season and sit at the bottom of the league with 7 points. Part of their problem may be their power play. Their special teams unit has converted only 7 opportunities in 80 tries, and is the worst in the NHL right now. The rumor mill in Philly will definitely be kicking into high gear soon, and come March this team is going to look like a half-price sale at K-mart. The Phoenix Coyotes may be rising from the ashes.....maybe? Newly acquired center Yanic Perreault had 2 assists for his new team, and helped them to a 6-4 victory over the Los Angeles Kings. The Carolina Hurricanes looked awesome in the third period, completely out playing the Ottawa Senators and handing them their third straight loss 3-2. The Calgary Flames got off the skids last night, by defeating the St. Louis Blues 3-2. Jarome Iginla who is on a tear right now (even though his team isn't) scored the game winner late in the third. Bill Guerin has apparently found his game in St. Louis, and scored his 7th goal of the season last night. Zdeno Chara scored the game tying goal in the waning moments of the third period for the Boston Bruins and Glenn Murray buried the game winner in OT moments later to complete the comeback win over the Lightning 6-5. The San Jose Sharks may have discovered the formula to stop the Pittsburgh Penguins last night. Pound them, and keep pounding them. The Sharks pressed the Pens physically all game and kept Evgeni Malkin from scoring in his 7th straight game, as well as effectively shutting down Sidney Crosby. The Sharks won the game 3-2.
Game of the Night:
Buffalo at NY Rangers 5:00 PM
Only one on the card today, but this should be a good one. The Rangers get a rematch with the Sabres who slapped the crap out of them 2 weeks ago 7-3 (i'm pretty sure on that score, although the Rangers may have only gotten 2, regardless they got beat badly). Tom Renney is apparently being coy about who he will be starting in net. Tough decision as Kevin Weekes has played solid in his last two starts, and the Rangers have played equally well in front of him. Enjoy the games!
The Buffalo Sabres win streak finally came to an end last night, and their bid to be the only team to start the season with 11 straight victories did as well. The Atlanta Thrashers, a team that in many ways resembles the Sabres were the first team to stop the juggernaut from Buffalo, but it took them the entire game, and overtime, and a shootout to do so.
Atlanta Thrashers forward Bobby Holik, had a goal and an assist on the night as did Scott Mellanby. Ilya Kovalchuk and Niko Kapanen also recorded tallies for the the Thrashers. Kari Lehtonen stopped 32 shots, and then stoned the Sabres in the shootout, to help lift his team over the undefeated Sabres 5-4.
The Thrashers have shared similiar success with the Sabres by using the same formula....great goaltending, stingy defence, and speed, speed, speed. It's not really a surprise that the Thrashers were the team to end Buffalo's win streak, and the game exemplified how evenly matched they were, as the teams traded goals back and forth until the end of regulation.
Quick Shave:
I have to thank Stache, for pointing out that my Game of the Night pick should have been the game above, but perhaps my selection of the young guns of Pittsburgh facing off against the Flyers wasn't such a bad call. The Pittsburgh Penguins hammered the Flyers last night 8-2, and Sidney Crosby joined the NHL Hat Trick club with his first ever career three goal game. Rookie forward and phenom (yeah he's that, and already making his bid for the Calder Trophy) scored his 5th goal in as many games. It seems the Flyers house cleaning has done little to address their real problems, namely, goaltending and slow defenders. Derian Hatcher has put up a goose egg so far this season, is a -11 rating and also got his face rearranged last night (i believe by Talbot). Zdeno Chara scored the game winner for the Boston Bruins to help them defeat his old team the Ottawa Senators 2-1. The New York Rangers got their road trip off to a good start by beating the powerhouse of the West, Phoenix Coyotes 7-3. Brendan Shanahan scored his 9th goal in 10 games with the Rangers. Yannic Perreault is apparently close to signing with Coyotes for a one year deal. Martin Brodeur of the New Jersey Devils recorded his second straight shutout stopping 22 shots and helping his team defeat the Columbus Blue Jackets 1-0. The Red Wings are still flying, winning their third straight last night over the St. Louis Blues 3-2. The Carolina Hurricanes scored 3 goals in 43 seconds against the Tampa Bay Lightning and never looked back, defeating the Bolts 6-4. Ilya Bryzgalov earned a shutout for the Anaheim Ducks as the beat the injury riddled Chicago Blackhawks 3-0. Tomas Kaberle joined the NHL Hat Trick club with his three goals for the Toronto Maple Leafs as they beat the Montreal Canadiens by way of shootout 5-4. Dwayne Roloson blanked the Washington Capitals for a 4-0 shutout win for the Edmonton Oilers.
Game of the Night:
Minnesota at Colorado 8:00 PM
Here's your chance to watch the Minnesota Wild in action. They thunder into the Pepsi Center tonight to face the Avalanche who have received shaky goaltending lately from Jose Theodore, who has had difficulty refinding his MVP form from several seasons ago. Enjoy the games!
Janne Niinimaa predicted a win tonight. Chris Drury and the Buffalo Sabres gave him one. Niinimaa's prediction that the Sabres undefeated streak would end in Montreal last night fell apart when Buffalo continued to show why they have dominated so far through speed, stingy defense, and great goaltending.
Chirs Drury's NHL leading 10th goal, a short-handed tally, gave the Sabres a 2-0 lead and they never looked back, finishing off the Montreal Canadiens 4-1. Goaltender Ryan Miller stopped all but one of the 28 shots he faced and is tied for the NHL lead with 6 wins, but is the only keeper in that group not in the Loss column. The Buffalo Sabres have now started the season 9-0 and are just one victory away from tying the record for undefeated starts with 10 set by the Toronto Maple Leafs in 1994. The Buffalo Sabres carry their win streak to Long Island where they will face the Islanders on Thursday night.
Not surprisingly, the Sabres players are topping the NHL leader board. The top three scorers in the NHL are Maxim Afinogenov(5 goals, 9 assists) and Chris Drury(10 goals, 4 assists) with 14 points, and Thomas Vanek(6 goals, 7 assists) with 13 points. Captain Daniel Briere has 12 points (2 goals, 10 assists).
Quick Shave:
Vesa Toskala of the San Jose Sharks is making a strong bid that he should be the number one keeper. The Sharks have been platooning (I love that term) goalies Vesa Toskala and Evgeni Nabokov since the season's start, and Toskala has yet to yield a loss for his team. Last night he shut out the Columbus Blue Jackets enroute to a 3-0 victory. Atlanta Thrashers star forward Ilya Kovalchuk has bounced back from a slow start and is starting to put the puck in the net. Kovalchuk was the latest player to join the NHL Hat Trick club as his three scores helped his team to a 6-3 victory over the Florida Panthers. The Colorado Avalanche rebounded from a rough showing in Montreal Saturday night and the L.A. Kings payed the price. Milan Hejduk scored 2 goals, and Peter Budaj, in relief of the recently shelled Jose Theodore backstopped the Avs to a 6-1 victory, making 27 saves in the match. Joe Sakic had two assists and is one point away from joining the 1,500 club.
Game of the Night:
New Jersey at Pittsburgh 7:00 PM
Ottawa at Toronto 7:30 PM
I'm a little torn here. The Penguins are just so much fun to watch, and Malkin so far has answered the hype, scoring 3 goals in his first 3 games. Martin Broduer will be looking to return to form after being yanked Saturday night against the Senators. Speaking of the Senators, was their goal outburst Saturday a fluke, or a return to normalcy? I guess we'll find out agains the Maple Leafs tonight. Canadian broadcasts are the best.
The answer right now. No. Nothing short of conventional weapons will stop this hockey club. The defending Stanley Cup Champs, the Carolina Hurricanes tried for the second time, and missed again by a goal. Buffalo Sabre's goalie wasn't as solid as he has been, and the Hurricanes were able to put 4 pucks past him. However, Carolina's goalie Cam Ward let 5 go by.....so they lost (that is commentary!)....5-4.
Maxim Afinogenov continues to be a threat on the ice, and is finally becoming the superstar forward everyone thought he would be. His finishing skills are now catching up to his super hero like speed. Afinogenov had a goal and two assists against the Hurricanes last night, and is 2nd overall in the NHL in scoring with 12 points (4 goals, and 8 assists).
Quick Shave:
The Anaheim Mighty Ducks are the first to solve the Minnesota Wild! The Minnesota Wild were the only other undefeated in the NHL, off to a franchise record 6-0 start. Anaheim goaltender J.S. Giguere made 27 saves to help the Ducks drop the Wild 2-1. The Chicago Blackhawks may have lost more than a game to Dallas last night. Martin Havlat, the leading NHL scorer injured an ankle during the game and will be evaluated today. No break was visible following an MRI, so that's good....this is where the nay-sayers start singing the 'I told you' so about Havlat's injury history. Perhaps it's true, but I bet everyone in Ottawa still wishes he was a Senator.
Game of the Night:
Colorado at Montreal 7:00 PM
Detroit at Edmonton 10:00 PM
Jose Theodore returns to Montreal? Could be interesting, although I can't imagine the Habs fans giving him to much of hard time. But who knows. Either way, he will probably be on top of his game trying to shove it in Gainey's face this evening. Detroit gets a small opportunity to give Edmonton a little payback in this round 1 rematch from last year's playoffs. Detroit has had a rough road trip so far, and could use a game like this to ignite the engines again. Enjoy the games!
Can anything stop the Buffalo Sabres? Not even mother nature! After a surprising weather front dumped over a foot of snow on the Western New York community, the Sabres responded by dumping 16 goals in the net against the Rangers and Flyers! Right now the Sabres look like they are playing against high school teams. I'm not even close to exaggerating. Last night, in what was their sixth consecutive victory, the Buffalo Sabres embarrassed the Philadelphia Flyers 9-1 (the score got so high that in an effort to not run the score up, Coach Lindy Ruff mandated that his forwards only score on headers).
Flyers goaltender Robert Esche who was left in net to fend for himself, actually kept his team in the game for the first period, making a couple of beautiful saves, including a Maxim Afinogenov shot from the door step. The wheels came flying off in the second, and he was eventually pounded for the 9 goals on the 37 shots he faced (I actually can't remember a goalie being left in after being lit up like that since Patty Roy was with the Habs....who coincidentally demanded a trade from Montreal following the game). While the entire Sabres lineup chipped in, team scoring leader from last year, Maxim Afinogenov continues his crusade this season, and contributed a goal and four assists in the game. His goal exemplified why the Flyers are falling apart right now, as he skated the entire team, including splitting the defensemen and finished by walking in on Esche untouched and completely pantsing him.
The Flyers who have won only one game so far, have a lot of work to do. Their power play sucks. They can't set it up, and can barely gain the zone (granted they were playing the Sabres who are just on top of their game right now, but the Flyers stats on special teams were dreadful prior to this game). The new 'slimmed down' Derian Hatcher should keep on slimming, because his 12 pounds of lost weight did little to help him keep up with the speed of the Sabres forward corps. Much work to do in Philly.
Quick Shave:
Vive le Habs! Everyonce in a while NHL Center Ice tosses us the French broadcast of the Montreal Canadiens games, and last night was just such an evening. It's very cool listening to the game in another language and really only takes a minute to adjust before you understand what they are saying. The Habs and Flames provided a barn burner last night, which saw the Canadiens win 5-4. The Calgary Flames did find some scoring in the game, but once again fell short. What I find odd is that when the game is tight and the Flames can't buy a goal, Kipprusoff shuts the door on their opponents, but when they do light the lamp, Kipprusoff is average at best. I think their is a mathematical formula for that (similiar to the equation which compares Pierre MacGuire's anger to the size of his mini-sin bin between the benches on Hockey Night in Canada). The Phoenix Coyotes made thier second appearance in the win column last night.....they beat the St. Louis Blues....yeah. The Vancouver Canucks and Edmonton Oilers traded home and home wins by identical scores this week.
Game of the Night:
New Jersey at Pittsburgh 7:30 PM
Malkin returns tonight! Come on, you have to watch this game! The much travelled son of the Penguins makes his NHL debut this evening against the New Jersey Devils. As my boy Stache said the other day, its up to Marty Brodeur to break in another young Penguin superstar. Good Luck Marty! Enjoy the games!
Do you think Todd Bertuzzi had something to prove last night? He certainly silenced some of his critics last night with his 4 point night which included the first goal of the season for himself, and for the Florida Panthers.
The game was close till the second period, then the Panthers went on a goal parade, scoring 5 unanswered tallies to defeat the new look Boston Bruins (new players, same great taste) 8-3.
Alex Auld who came over in the trade with Bertuzzi was outstanding, stopping 34 shots. The Panthers spread the scoring around as Mike Van Ryn, Juraj Kolnik, Nathan Horton (fantasy owners, keep an eye on this kid, I think this is gonna be his year), Chris Gratton, Olli Jokinen, and Joe Niewendyk all potted goals. Niewendyk's goal was his 561st, and passed Guy LaFleur on the NHL scoring list....he now sits 19th. Boston's Zdeno Chara was an even rating for the night and did provide 2 assists for Boston, while their other big name acquisition, Marc Savard got his first point on an assist the Bruins.
Quick Shave The Devils spanked the Hurricanes last night, using the same tactic the Cane's used in the playoffs to defeat them. Deflection, deflection, deflection. Every goal on Cam Ward last night was redirected in front of him and easily found the back of the net. Brodeur recorded his first win by way of shutout 4-0 over the Hurricanes. Watch out for the Sabres! As Playoff Moustache said the other day, this team looks like they are still playing playoff hockey. Last night was no different. Discouraged (actually furious) by some third period penalty calls, the Sabres rallied from a two goal defecit against the Habs on scores by Captain Daniel Briere and Maxim Afinogenov to tie the game late in the third. Ryan Miller and the Sabres went on to defeat the Montreal Canadiens for their second win of the season, again by shootout. The Sedin twins are at it again for Vancouver. Daniel and Henrik Sedin combined to tie the game 2-2 against the Columbus Blue Jackets, and got together once more to finishe the game less than a minute into extra time. Roberto Luongo recorded his second win of the season for Vancouver. Blue Jackets goalie Pascal LeClair was solid stopping 41 of 44 shots. The Anaheim Ducks still have a little rust to work out, but hints of what the scariest powerplay in the NHL were clearly apparent last night. Watching Selanne and Pronger bomb shots from the points was impressive, and the way the forwards in front were able to cycle, retrieve and get the puck back to them to reload was outstanding. J.S. Giguere was outstanding in net, stopping 41 shots, as the Ducks beat the L.A. Kings 4-3.
Game of the Night:
NY Rangers at Philadelphia 7:00 PM
Buffalo at Ottawa 7:00 PM
Saturday night is great! There are a ton of games to choose from, but I feel these two, especially the playoff rematch between Buffalo and Ottawa will be outstanding. Buffalo looks terrific, and despite the criticism, I like the new jerseys. I love the players numbers on the right breast, it gives them a 'soccer' look and feel. Hopefully Spezza will score a goal for Stache tonight. The Flyers are coming off a humiliating defeat against the Pens two nights ago, and should be ready to go against their hated rivals the Rangers tonight. I expect this game to be nasty....however no Brashear, and a possibly scratched Darius Kasparitus (coach Tom Renney has been unhappy with his conditioning and scratched him the first game, which Kaspar was pissed about, but guess what buddy....this is the new Rangers...no more free rides! I hope Renney continues to lay down the law like this) may not be as ugly as previous engagements. Enjoy the games my fellow bearders!
On a night where the Carolina Hurricanes raised their Stanley Cup Banner to celebrate their 2005-2006 season, the Buffalo Sabres were only thinking about how they fell one game short to the same team only months ago in the Eastern Conference Finals.
The Buffalo Sabres weathered an early storm (no pun intended) of shots by the Hurricanes on opening night, till Pomminville opened the scoring for the Sabres halfway through the first. Staal evened the score minutes later for the Hurricanes. Both teams traded goals on scores by the Hurricanes Erik Cole, and Buffalo's Chris Drury. After that it was all goaltending.
Buffalo's Ryan Miller made 32 saves while Cam Ward stopped 30 shots, till the game went to OT, and the inevitable shootout. The Sabres Daniel Briere scored the only goal during the shoot out, and Ryan Miller shut down the Canes to take the first win of the NHL season 3-2.
Senators level Leafs
The Maple Leafs need goal scoring. They also need defense, and perhaps goaltending. The only Leafs goal was provided by Mats Sundin on a penalty shot. Other than that it was all Ottawa. Patrick Eaves, Chris Neil, Christoph Schubert, and Daniel Alfredsson all recorded tallies in the 4-1 victory over the Maple Leafs.
Dallas stuns Colorado
WOW! Dallas looked horrible all game, and in fact didn't even show up till the third. If not for Turco, they would have been down far more than 2-0 to the Avs. In the third however, Theodore didn't show up, and let two quick goals by in the opening minutes. The game went to OT, where the Avs started on a power play which they failed to convert. As the penalty ended, Turco fed a sweet pass to Darryl Sydor who was just out of the sin bin and broke free to wrist one over Theodore's right shoulder and help Dallas to a 3-2 OT victory!
Game of the night:
Vancouver at Detroit 7:00 PM
Calgary at Edmonton 10:00 PM
I give you two, because I'm generous. I'm really interested to see the new looks of all four of these teams. Vancouver's new goalie in Roberto Luongo, and will Naslund lineup with the Sedin boys? How will Detroit fare in the post Yzerman / Shanahan era.....and how will Hasek be in net for the Wings? In Calgary, has Iginla finally found the scoring linemate he has so desperately been seeking in Tanguay, and how will Edmonton respond after coming within a game of winning the Stanley Cup? All these questions will be answered tonight! Probably not all tonight, but some perhaps. Regardless, both matches look to be the most exciting ones on the card! Enjoy the games!
The 2006-2007 NHL Season officially begins tonight, and what better way to kick start than with a rematch of the Eastern Conference finalists Buffalo Sabres, facing off against the team that beat them in game 7 and went on to become the Stanley Cup Champion Carolina Hurricanes? Both teams have had some turnover during the off season, but the core players that took them to the promised land last season remain. Eric Staal of the Carolina Hurricanes will look to improve upon his 100 point (45 goals, 55 assists) regular season in 2005-2006, and help his team defend their title. Staal led all player in the playoffs last season with 28 points (9 goals, 19 assists).
The Buffalo Sabres spent most of the summer battling arbitraters and for the most part came out on top. Daniel Briere will be out to prove that his $5 million arbitration award was deserved and help bring his Sabres over the hump. This should be an awesome matchup and the launchpad for one of the newest rivalries. I'm definitely calling this one my Game of the Night!
Also on the card this evening is Ottawa travelling to meet the Leafs in Toronto. No Hasek? No Chara? No Problem. A younger squad of Sens will surely test the new blue line corps of the Leafs tonite, and see if all that money they threw at Hal Gil, and Pavel Kubina was worth it.
The late game is another playoff rematch from last season between the Dallas Stars, who were handily whipped by the Colorado Avalanche in the first round. All eyes will be on Stars goaltender Marty Turco, to see if he can shake off the sting of yet another dissapointing playoffs. Keep an eye on Marek Svatos of the Avs....the kid can fly and hopefully won't fall into a sophomore slump.
Tonight's Games:
Buffalo at Carolina 7:00 PM
Ottawa at Toronto 7:30 PM
Dallas at Colorado 10:00 PM
Tonight's Show:
October 4th Show
Drop the puck, it's time to go. The NHL season gets underway tonight and we'll give you the latest from the first night of hockey. Lyle Richardson from Spector's Hockey will join us to talk about Lou Lamoriello's deal with the Devils and the moves on the last week of camps. Michael Dolan from FHM Magazine will join us to talk about the FHM NHL Preview, the happenings on the website, and how much damage the crew did at the FHM/NHL Party last Wednesday. All that, plus the beginning of the FOHSHL Report and more from the WHL in the WHL Report. We're chocked full of action and it's just night one.
The pre-season has been tough on a lot teams so far. Injuries are abound and the season hasn't even begun yet. So far it appears the groin is the most popular ailment. Here's a list of the wounded:
Toronto Maple Leafs
Kyle Wellwood - groin
Michael Peca - groin
Darcy Tucker - unknown
Ben Ondrus - unknown
Wade Belak - groin
Tomas Kaberle - unknown
Brendan Bell - bone bruise
San Jose Sharks
Jonathan Cheechoo - groin
Joe Thornton - bruised foot
Nashville Predators
Jason Arnott - groin
Atlanta Thrashers
Vitaly Vishnevski - groin
Steve Rucchin -groin
Buffalo Sabres
Daniel Breire - hip flexor
Carolina Hurricanes
Oleg Tverdovsky - groin
Chicago Blackhawks
Tuomo Ruutu - knee
Michal Handzus -shoulder
Mikael Holmqvist - groin
James Wisniewski - back
Dallas Stars
Eric Lindros - groin
Detroit Red Wings
Danny Markov - knee
Greg Johnson - heart (abnormal EKG)
Florida Panthers
Ville Peltonen - shoulder
Philadelphia Flyers
Antero Niittymaki - hip
Ummmm, does anyone stretch before they play hockey anymore? Come on guys! Either that or the NHL needs to look into getting some better trainers. This is ridiculous!
Damn! Did everyone in the NHL forget the new rules in the offseason? In the last two days I've heard nothing but conga lines headed to the penalty box and consequently teams being eviscerated by their opponents power plays.
Last night saw the Toronto Maple Leafs and Buffalo Sabres combine for 18 penalties! Of course the Sabres capitalized on 4 of those power play opportunities, and the Maple Leafs went 0 for 7. The Leafs also debuted their new number one goalie Andrew Raycroft who was shelled in his first outing. Raycroft is apparently the first Leaf to wear the #1 in over a decade. His number may be #1, but the Leafs played like #2.
The Dallas Stars were another team to benefit from their opponent's lack of discipline. The Atlanta Thrashers allowed the Stars to bury two powerplay goals enroute to a 5-2 win. The Thrashers were able to score on one of their chances, but squandered 5 others.
So much for Anaheim's defense. Well, in fairness the Ducks Dynamic Duo of Neidermayer and Pronger were scratched for todays game, and the team that played tonight proved that they will certainly need them to provide quality minutes this season. The Los Angeles Kings torched the Ducks 7-1, scoring 3 goals on the powerplay in another penalty filled game.
Hooking and Tripping appear to be the most popular infractions early in the pre-season, with the occassional seasoning of interference and holding. Everyone is going to have to brush up on the basics, or it could be another slow frustrating start for many teams out of the gate. Goals will certainly be in abundance, especially for teams with monster power play units.
Last but not least. Buffalo's well of restricted free agents slowly dwindled over the past month and a half and has finally run dry with the signing of their star goalkeeper Ryan Miller. The Sabres re-signed Miller to a 3 year contract worth $8 million. Miller will earn $2 million in the first year of his contract, $2.5 in the second year, and $3.5 in the final year of the deal.
The Sabres had to cut ties with J.P. Dumont in early August when an arbitrator awarded the forward close to $3 million, which would have made it difficult, if not impossible for them to re-sign Miller. With his new contract, Ryan Miller will be ready to start in Sabres training camp which begins next week.
Miller had 30 wins last season for the Sabres and also helped the team to the Western Conference Finals where they eventually fell to the Carolina Hurricanes in game 7.
Hurricanes sign short term replacement for Stillman
The Carolina Hurricanes signed Brad Isbister to a one year deal worth $600,000. The contract is two way, which means if he is sent down to the minors the Hurricanes will only have to pay him $95,000 (not sure how this effects their salary cap, but I can only assume that it will free up $505,000 for the Canes). If Isbister puts up the numbers he did last season (6 goals, 17 assists) it is almost a certainty he will taking a bus trip upon the return of Cory Stillman, who had a monster season for the Hurricanes scoring 75 points (21 goals, 55 assists) and was an integral part of helping them win their first Stanley Cup (he scored 26 points 9 goals, and 17 assists, which was second best only to teammate Eric Staal).
Sabres re-sign Dmitri Kalinin
Lou Lamoriello should take some lessons from Buffalo GM Darcy Regier, who has had the most difficult task of holding onto his core team that blossomed last season and rode the momentum to the Eastern Conference Finals. The Buffalo Sabres have re-signed defenceman Dmitri Kalinin to a 2 year deal worth $4 million. Kalinin was unfortunately part of the IR parade of Buffalo defenceman that eventually derailed the train, but had a solid season and playoffs prior to breaking his foot in round 2 against Ottawa. Kalinin had 2 goals and 16 assist and was the team leader in plus / minus with a rating of +14.
The Sabres attention now turns to their star goalie and lone restricted free agent Ryan Miller. With over $5 million available under the $44 million salary cap the Buffalo Sabres are in a good position to keep the netminder within the fold for next season, and more than likely many to come.
Adam Mair, the last man standing of 12 Buffalo Sabres that filed for arbitration was awarded a $675,000 one year contract. The Buffalo Sabres are required to accept the ruling because Mair's award was under $1 million as per the new CBA.
Adam Mair received a modest raise from the $450,00 he earned last season, which was cut short due to concussion symptoms and a groin injury sustained in the pre-season. Playing only 40 games, Mair scored 2 goals and 5 assists.
Mair, Dumont, and Briere were the only Sabres to goto arbitration. Darcy Regier managed to sign the remaining 9 players prior to their hearings, a list that included, Maxim Afinogenov, Brian Campbell, Tim Connolly, Paul Gaustad, Ales Kotalik, Toni Lydman, Andrew Peters, Jason Pominville, and Henrik Tallinder. The Sabres payroll of $38 million is resting comfortably below the hard salary cap of $44 million, but they still need to re-sign goalie Ryan Miller (who is in line for a big bump) and defenceman Dmitri Kalinin. Both are restricted free agents.
What's up with Brian Leetch?
Larry Brooks wrote a very interesting article regarding the status of Brian Leetch this weekend. Where will he end up? He makes a great point that the Bruins over-used Leetch last season, expecting him to provide quality ice time of up to 30 minutes a game. A feat that a younger Leetch had little issue with, but now at 38 his body no longer can sustain that pace. However in a limited role, as a 2nd pair defenceman, and a power play specialist, he could still be a factor and perhaps a game breaker. I can hardly disagree. Injuries have taken a toll on Leetch over the past 5 seasons, however, he still remains one of the best quarterbacks on the powerplay....again when healthy. Will the Rangers make a play for him? Will he forgive Sather for the way he was traded 3 years ago? It will be interesting to see where he winds up.
The Buffalo Sabres have officially agreed to accept Daniel Briere's arbitration award. Briere was award $5 million by an arbitrator over a week ago. His case kicked off all of the arbitration hearings.
Briere didn't play a full season, but he still managed a solid year, potting 25 goals and 33 assists. Briere exploded in the playoffs with 8 goals and 11 assists in 18 playoff games and lifted the Sabres to within one game of the Eastern Conference Finals.
Darcy Regier and owner Tom Golisano have made a solid decision toward making this team a contender again. They still have to decide whether or not to accept J.P. Dumont's arbitration award of $2.9 million that was handed out Wednesday.
Adam Mair remains the last of 12 Sabres scheduled for arbitration. Unless signed, his hearing will be sometime today.
Penguins not giving up on Malkin
No transfer agreement with Russia? No problem! The Penguins have begun negotiations to get their star prospect in uniform for the upcoming season. This is a huge priority, not just for the Pens, but the NHL as well. I'm keeping my fingers crossed that it happens. For more on the particulars, visit TSN.ca.
The Sabres do it again! This time re-signing one of the gems of their 2006 arbitration class, and again doing so before his scheduled hearing. Maxim Afinogenov signed a 3 year deal worth $10 million and became the 9th Sabre's player to avoid an arbitration hearing. So far only Daniel Briere and J.P. Dumont (we are still waiting to find out what his arbitration award will be) have gone before arbitration.
Back to Afinogenov. After 6 years in the NHL, Afinogenov finally emerged as the player everyone thought he would be. Leading the Sabres with 73 points (22 goals, 51 assists), Afinogenov set career highs (seems like a lot of Sabres did this year, no wonder they were so good). One of the fastest skaters in the league, he finally discovered how to finish his chances this season.
Considering the Buffalo Sabres had a record 12 players file for arbitration I think they have done an outstanding job. Darcy Regier is quickly becoming the Kevin Lowe of the Eastern Conference. I really think we are going to see a trend soon, where the teams that had to penny pinch prior to the salary cap, are going to rapidly become masters of it. Watch out for the Penguins!
The Buffalo Sabres now only have 3 players remaining headed to arbitration after re-signing center Paul Gaustad to a two year deal worth $1.425 million. The Sabres J.P. Dumont has an arbitration hearing scheduled for today, and Maxim Afinogenov on Thursday.
Anaheim accepts arbitration award on Vishnevski
Vitaly Vishnevski will be staying with the Ducks, at least for now. The Ducks accepted Vishnevski's arbitration award of $1.55 million for one year. Brian Burke has been rumored to be shopping the big defenceman, and is still looking to move him after reluctantly accepting the award. Vishnevski's camp would also like a trade because the arbitration hearing was on the unfriendly side......arbitration always brings out the best in everyone.
On 35 more Sabres players to go! That is a slight exaggeration. The Buffalo Sabres were looking at 12 arbitration cases, but have managed to sign Ales Kotalik, Henrik Tallinder, Andrew Peters, and Brian Campbell prior to their hearings. Defenceman Toni Lydman and forward Jason Pominville are the latest pair to avoid arbitration by signing long term deals with the Sabres yesterday.
Toni Lydman, signed a 4 year deal worth $11.5 million just before his hearing was to begin yesterday. Jason Pominville scheduled for arbitration today, signed a 3 year deal worth $3.1 million.
Both players are coming off of terrific seasons. Lydman is one on the Sabres top defencemen and had a goal and 5 assists during Buffalo's playoff run. Pominville led rookie scoring during the playoffs with 5 goals and 5 assists.
Kyle Calder awarded $2.95 million
Chicago Blackhawks forward Kyle Calder was awarded a one year contract worth $2.95 million by and arbitrator. Calder had a career season last year scoring 26 goals and 59 points.
It looks as though arbitrators used Mike York's case as a benchmark for Calder to determine his award. Essentially, every year it seems as though one player get's signed (let's say Alex Tanguay for instance) and the market price is then set for the rest of the league. Whether they like it or not, it becomes the standard.
Ok maybe that was a stretch, but as expected, Buffalo Sabres forward Daniel Briere landed a huge arbitration settelement of $5 million for one year. Buffalo had been trying to work out a long term deal with Briere prior to arbitration, and had also been rumored to be shopping him in case of an unfavorable settlement. Arbitration usually tends to favor the player, rather than the team, unless the player in question is a real Daigle. However that individual usually will not file for arbitration and accept a qualifying offer or whatever is tendered rather than put their case before an arbitrator. Buffalo has the standard 48 hours to either accept or decline Briere's award. If they decline he will immediately become an unrestricted free agent which is highly unlikely. If accepted he will become a UFA following this season. If Buffalo can't work out a long term deal, I would expect to see him shopped.
Unlike a lot of fans, I think this salary is justified. Granted the guy didn't play a full season last year (only 48 games due to injury) he still managed to score 58 points (25 goals, 33 assists). The playoffs this year I believe is where his character really shown through. In 18 playoff games he scored 8 goals, and 11 assists and helped Buffalo get to the Easter Conference Finals by defeating Ottawa, and Philadelphia. No small task for this player, and the team.
The Sabres did manage to sign forward Ales Kotalik to a 3 year $7 million deal and avoid going to arbitration with the player this week. Given that, and Briere's case, there are only 7 players remaining to have their cases heard.
Defenceman Chris Pronger got his wish, and was traded from Edmonton to the Anaheim Ducks, in exchange for Joffrey Lupul, prospect Ladislav Smid, and a 1st round pick in 2007. Edmonton gets a forward who is a prototypical Oilers forward, Lupul, and hopefully a can't miss prospect in Smid. Anaheim gets arguably one of the best defenseman in the league and can now boast one of the best pairings with Pronger now complementing Scott Neidermayer. As I said yesterday, Pronger's only achilles' heel is his playoff beard.
Guerin lands in St. Louis
Did I call this one or what? Bill Guerin signed a one year deal with St. Louis less than a week after he was bought out by the Dallas Stars. He joins his Team USA linemates Keith Tkachuk, and Doug Weight.
Brendan Witt signs with Islanders
The Islanders have signed defenceman Brendan Witt to a 3 year deal, and have obtained one of the largest defenceman on the free agent market (after Chara). Great pickup for the Isles, and I really like what Neil Smith is doing so far with this team. No big splashes but solid character guys that will help younger players grow.
Teppo Numminen re-ups with Sabres
If it isn't broken.....Numminen re-signed with the Buffalo Sabres for one more year. Numminen was a big part of their Stanley Cup playoffs run, and when he was injured his loss was one that was glaring.
Thrashers sign Steve Rucchin
Steve Rucchin has just signed a 3 year deal that will grow from $1.85 million the first year to $4.25 million in the final year of the contract.
Rangers continue to mine Stanley Cup Champs
A few days after signing teammate Matt Cullen, the Rangers have signed defenceman Aaron Ward to a 2 year deal worth $5.5 million. Another pivotal player in the Carolina's Stanley Cup run, Ward will definitely be a welcome addition to the Ranger's blueline.
Shark Attack
The San Jose Sharks have added so much needed grit in Mike Grier and Curtis Brown. Mike Grier has signed a three year deal worth $1.775 a season. Nice pickup, Grier is one of those guys you would love to have on your team, and I really hoped the Rangers would grab him. Grier is the second player to leave the Sabres via free agency following Jay Mckee leaving for St. Louis.
Anyone else like what John Davidson is doing to revamp the St. Louis Blues?
TSN.ca is reporting that Buffalo defenseman Jay McKee will be sitting out tonight's game 7 matchup due to an infected shin. McKee joins the list of injured Buffalo d-men that includes Teppo Numminen, Henrik Tallinder, and Dmitri Kalinin. This one has got to hurt, but Buffalo has proved to very resilient. Can they tough this one out?
This could potentially be the best game we have seen this entire post season. What makes it even better is that your Captain said it would go 7 (and if Buffalo wins tonight I will look like an uber-genius) and here we are. Both teams have provided some great hockey, and are more evenly matched than any other series played so far, which, apparently is why they have provided us with said great hockey!
Questions for tonight's game. Who will be in net for Carolina? I'm thinking Cam Ward, he had a great game 6, even though they lost, but Laviolette has thrown a few surprises at us. Teppo Numminen's status. Will he suit up and try to give it a go? Even though he couldn't play most of game 6, I can't imagine his support on the bench hurt...however, some fresh legs on defense wouldn't hurt the Sabres late in the game either.....unless those legs belong to Jilson.....but perhaps he's ready to rebound from his first playoff game performance....man is this the longest run on sentence ever?
Special thanks to OLN for the Youngblood marathon last night. Poor substitute for playoff hockey, but man that is an 'A' for effort. Youngblood is probably the poorest example of a hockey film ever, but it is hilarious for all the wrong reasons. I plan on doing a review of that movie soon on Bad Movie Knights, so if you guys are fans of awful cinema, check it out!
If not for Cam Ward in the first period the game would have been 18-0 in favor of the Sabres. Just kidding, but not really. The Sabres played with desperation, and the Hurricanes didn't. The Hurricanes didn't really play at all in the first, other than the aforementioned Ward. JP Dumont scored the only goal of the period.
In all fairness, both goaltenders put on a clinic. Ryan Miller, kept the game from being 1-1 late in the first period. Miller made 25 saves and Cam Ward saved 29 of 31 shots he faced.
After surviving a late attack by the Hurricanes, which saw them tie the game with less than 4 minutes in the game, the Sabres were lucky to make it to OT. Down to only 5 defenseman, which were obviously exhausted, after losing Teppo Numminen again (who tried to play but ended up re-injuring himself early in the game) looked as though they were just hanging on at the end of the game.
Daniel Briere to the rescue! Just 4 minutes into the extra period, Briere scored on a blooper that went over Ward's shoulder and bounced behind him into the net. The goal which was scored on the powerplay gave him his 19th point of the playoffs and an opportunity for Buffalo to advance to the Stanley Cup Finals with a game 7 matchup on Thursday in Raleigh. For more on the game, visit TSN.ca.
So finally after two rounds of playoffs we get another game 7! I think this extra game is going to really hurt the Oilers who are sitting in a holding pattern waiting to find out who their opponent will be. The curse of the early playoff finish is now on the Oilers. Will they break it?
After weathering an early first period storm (get it...storm...hurricanes...storm...eh? eh?) the Sabres counter attacked and got a goal from defenceman Henrik Timmander. Rod Brind'Amour answered the tally later in the first, firing a wristshot past Ryan Miller. Daniel Briere scored in the second and Jay McKee got the eventual game winner in the 3rd to help push the Sabres past the Hurricanes 3-2. The Sabres now have a 1-0 lead in the series over the Hurricanes.
The game to me looked very even. Although the Hurricanes seemed to carry the offense more, and keep the puck in the Sabres end, the Buffalo defenceman were very successful in keeping most of the play to the perimeter and the shots to the outside. The Sabres were able to counter on Hurricane errors and turnovers. I think this series is going to be the best one we have seen thus far. Eddie Olczyk must be visiting the Playoff Beard, because he also agrees with the Bosher that this one is going 7 games.
Anaheim looks to bounce back tonight against Edmonton, and I think they will. Expect the rust to be out of their legs, and for Roloson to really be tested. The Sharks had some early success against the Oilers by going right after Pronger, perhaps the Ducks should try that. The guy plays 30 minutes a game, make him work a little harder when he goes into the corners....I think.
Playoff Leaders:
Patrick Elias 6 goals 10 assists 16 points Eric Staal 5 goals 11 assists 16 points Shawn Horcoff 5 goals 10 assists 15 points Jason Spezza 5 goals 9 assists 14 points Patrick Marleau 9 goals 5 assists 14 points
Round 2 has been all about speed, open ice hitting, and last second heroics. Last night alone, we saw the Senators Volchenkov and the Sabres Gaustad collide head first, Buffalo's Tim Connoly probably still doesn't know where he is after Peter Schaefer knocked him cold, and Ville Niemenen has begun checking Oilers players relatives. How about the Sabres and Canes waiting till the final seconds to tie up games 1 and 2?
The Devils had game 2 in the bag last night. It was theirs until Eric Staal scored with 3.8 seconds remaining in the game, to tie the match at 2 a piece. Just over 3 minutes into OT, Niclas Wallin deposited the puck past Brodeur (that wasn't a shot....I don't know what that was) and gave the Hurricanes the 3-2 win, and a 2-0 series lead over the New Jersey Devils. For more on this game and series visit TSN.ca.
The Senators and Sabres tightened up defensively after there 13 goal performance in Game 1. Ryan Miller really tightened up. Stopping 43 of Ottawa's 44 shots and helping the Sabres to a 2-1 victory over the Senators. The Sabres carry a 2-0 series lead over the Senators back home to Buffalo for game 3 on Wednesday night. For more on the series visit TSN.ca.
Playoff Beard Alert: Two beauties to keep an eye on. Not only is there play outstanding, but Martin Havlat of the Sens, and Ryan Miller of the Sabres are sporting some series chin growth right now.....
Joey T does if for the Sharks! Scoring on the powerplay, Thornton's tally was the eventual game winner, and gave the Sharks 2-0 series lead over the Oilers, as they prepare to take their game to Edmonton on Wednesday. Dwayne Roloson has kept the Oilers in both of these games, now all they have to do is find their offense. The Sharks outshot the Oilers 38-25. For more on this series visit TSN.ca.
Playoff Leaders
Patrick Elias 5 goals 7 assists 12 points Eric Staal 4 goals 8 assists 12 points Martin Havlat 7 goals 5 assists 12 points Dany Heatley 3 goals 9 assists 12 points Jason Spezza 3 goals 8 assists 11 points
Last night's scores:
Buffalo 2 Ottawa 1 F
New Jersey 2 Carolina 3 F (OT)
Edmonton 1 San Jose 2 F
Wow! And I mean Wow! The first two games in Round 2 delivered 18 goals! That is offense (or some really crappy defense)!
If Game 1 of the Senators and Sabres is any indication of what this series is going to be like, then we are really in for a treat! I know I said there would be back and forth action, but damn!
Leading the Sabres 5-4 with less than 3 minutes remaining the Sabres had a short handed 2 on 1 that Derrick Roy buried past Ray Emery to tie the game at 5. Less than a minute later Bryan Smolinski converted the powerplay to regain the Ottawa lead 6-5. With Sabres goalie Ryan Miller pulled in favor of the extra attacker, and less than 20 seconds remaining Tim Connoly backhanded a loose puck past Emery to tie the game at 6-6 and force OT.
The Sabres defeated Ottawa 6-5 less than 20 seconds into the OT period on a goal by Chris Drury (how huge is this guy in the playoffs?).
Goalies Ray Emery and Ryan Miller obviously had shaky starts, and Emery looked really unconfident after surrendering two goals in the final 3 minutes in the 3rd. He looked frozen as Drury rifled the shot past him from the left circle. I would imagine both teams will shore up the defensive gaps, and play things tighter in Game 2. I really think this one is gonna go to 7. Buffalo takes the series lead 1-0. For more on this series visit TSN.ca.
Don't look now, but the Ducks are riding another hot goalie guys! Remember the last time this happened? Ilya Byzgalov won his second game by shutout in a row. After winning game 7 against Calgary, Bryzgalov kepted the Avs off the scoreboard by making 29 saves on the way to a 5-0 Ducks victory.
Aside from having a hot goaltender, they also have one of the hottest forwards in the playoffs (not counting Havlat or Elias) in Teemu Selanne. Selanne had a goal and two assists last night for a total of 9 playoff points. Jose Theodore did little to provide the Avalanche with the solid goaltending they needed last night, and if he doesn't pick up his game this series will be over quick. I wonder if Quennville is contemplating a goalie switch to Peter Budaj? It's worked in Anaheim and Carolina already this year. For more on this series visit TSN.ca.
Playoff Leaders:
Martin Havlat 7 goals 5 assists 12 points Dany Heatley 3 goals 9 assists 12 points Jason Spezza 3 goals 8 assists 11 points Tim Connolly 5 goals 6 assists 11 points Patrick Elias 5 goals 6 assists 11 points
One thing I'd like to point out about the playoff leaders. Patrick Elias is on the leader board and he has only played 4 games. Everyone else has played 6 or 7. Respect the Devils. Enjoy the game today!
Special teams killed the Rangers last night again, this time however it was John Madden and New Jersey's penalty kill, who provided two short handed goals. John Madden went on to score a hatrick and help the Devils defeat the Rangers 4-1 and give New Jersey a 2-0 series lead over the Rangers. For more on this visit TSN.ca.
The Flyers who I picked, and I'm sure many others did (not you Playoff Moustache) to beat the Sabres are suddenly on their heels after Saturdays double OT loss, and last night's 8-2 rout. Esche got yanked in favor of Nittymaki, but the damage was done after he surrendered 5 goals. J.P. Dumont and Jason Pominville both recorded hatricks in the 8-2 victory. The Sabres lead the series 2-0. For more on this visit TSN.ca.
Joe Sakic scored just 5 minutes into overtime last night to give the Avs a 5-4 win over Dallas and take a 2-0 series lead. Again, another team I have cursed by not only picking them to win this series but to meet the Devils in the Finals. The boys in Texas are making Bosh look silly. For more on this mess visit TSN.ca.
Cristobal Huet....I think you can put a down payment on that new house and boat brother. Granted last night's victory had nothing to do with goaltending, you have certainly helped the Habs get where they are and they are obviously playing with a ton of confidence in front of you! Michael Ryder scored less than 3 minutes into the second overtime to help the Canadiens defeat the Hurricanes 6-5 and take a 2-0 series lead. For more on this story visit TSN.ca.
This game rocks.
Last night's scores:
Philadelphia 2 Buffalo 8 F Montreal 6 Carolina 5 F (2OT)
NY Rangers 1 New Jersey 4 F Colorado 5 Dallas 4 F (OT)
Tonight's games:
Ottawa at Tampa Bay 7:00 PM
Calgary at Anaheim 10:00 PM
Detroit at Edmonton 10:00 PM
Nashville at San Jose 10:30 PM
Buffalo clinched their first playoff birth since 2001 with a 3-2 shootout win over the Leafs last night, but the victory may have been a costly one.
Johan Hecht left the game during the third period after a collision with Darcy Tucker. Lindy Ruff is calling for a suspension of Tucker because he feels the hit was blatant knee on knee contact, and could lose Hecht for the playoffs. For more on this visit TSN.ca.
The playoff race in the East is beginning to solidify itself. New Jersey, Tampa, and Montreal are holding tight to their 6th, 7th and 8th spots. Atlanta, Florida and Toronto are 7 points out, with 8 games to go. It's not looking good Leafs fans.
The West is a completely different story! With a win over Vancouver last night, L.A. pulled into a tie with San Jose for 9th place overal. Both teams are just two points behind 8th place Vancouver, 3 behind Edmonton, and 5 behind Anaheim and Colorado. Vancouver and Edmonton are on very shaking ground. 6 teams are fighting for 4 spots. That is outstanding! Musical chairs anyone? Keep an eye on this race, it's going to go down to the final games.
Last night's scores:
Washington 5 Carolina 6 F (OT)
Atlanta 4 Ottawa 6 F
Florida 1 Tampa Bay 4 F Buffalo 3 Toronto 2 F (SO) Columbus 3 Nashville 1 F San Jose 3 Dallas 2 F (OT)
Phoenix 1 Edmonton 7 F Detroit 2 Calgary 1 F (SO)
Chicago 3 Colorado 4 F
Vancouver 0 Los Angeles 1 F
Game of the night:
Philadelphia at NY Rangers 7:00 PM
Los Angeles at Anaheim 10:30 PM
HUGE! Both games have major playoff implications. And how sweet is this? Bosh has selected an early and a late game so you can watch them both! Who loves you? That's right....Bosh loves you. Enjoy the games!
Vancouver has acquired goaltender Mika Noronen from the Buffalo Sabres for a 2nd round pick. Vancouver has long been rumored to be looking for a netminder to support Alex Auld between the pipes.
In San Jose, the Sharks newest acquisition, super forward Dany Heatley finally delivered for his new club. During the Sharks home opener, Heatley joined the NHL Hat Trick club and helped lift his team to a 6-3 victory over the Columbus Blue Jackets. Joe Thornton tied a Sharks record by assisting on 4 of those goals.
In St. Louis, the Blues opened at home for the first time and were defeated by the Atlanta Thrashers 4-2. Thrashers forward Ilya Kovalchuk scored his 300th career NHL goal, then later deposited his 301st. Kovalchuk now has two back to back two goal games to open the season... not bad for a guy in a contract year. Atlanta better lock him up now.
The first big trade of the day is done.
That was something really special yesterday. Pond hockey in front of a crowd of over 70,000 people.
The Boston Bruins have themselves another new goaltender.... welcome Alex Auld everyone! Auld joins Tim Thomas, Manny Fernandez, and Tuuka Rask in what is now the most heavily populated crease in the NHL.
I think alot of writers may have been wrong with their initial assessments of the New York Islanders. Myself included.
Quick Shave:
Midway through the first overtime period, Ottawa Senators Captain Daniel Alfredsson (I apologize for the illustration, I've been trying to avoid using it all season since I think it makes Alfie look like a cross between a Hobbit, and a Dr. Seuss character.... nevertheless, the man deserves to be recognized, crappy drawing or not) put a wrist shot past Ryan Miller and closed the door on the Buffalo Sabres with a 3-2 win. The Senators won the series 4-1 and are now headed to the Stanley Cup Finals.
The Sabres stay alive. Finally a ray of hope... and not the Ray that has been stellar in net for the Ottawa Senators all series (and all post season for that matter).
The Ottawa Senators bounced out to a quick 2-0 lead early in the first on a short handed score by Mike Fisher, then minutes later on a powerplay goal by Daniel Alfreddson. The Sabres appeared to get back into the game with a goal by Maxim Afinogenov and a tying goal by Toni Lydman midway through the second.
What a great game. What a great series.
I feel like some one just kicked me in the groin.
Quick Shave:
Quick Shave:
It took almost 100 minutes yesterday, but the New York Rangers finally found a way to defeat the Buffalo Sabres yesterday afternoon.
Quick Shave:
Somewhere on Long Island, my buddy Mike is wearing a big smile today. Your goaltender has returned Mike, and with him.... hope.
Quick Shave:
Shouldn't it be the Toronto Maple Leaves? Ponder that one.
The trade for Keith Tkachuk was widely panned by everyone (including myself), but I have to give GM Don Waddell some credit. Yes, he gave up a lot to get the big forward, but he's getting a lot back in return.
I have to admit at the start of the season I was really worried about Cristobal Huet. He had all of the symptoms early on that would indicate he would be embracing a sophomore slump. The boys on the 
The Washington Capitals took it to the Buffalo Sabres. I mean really. Not only did the Capitals offence explode for 7 goals (4 of which came in the opening period, which saw Sabres keeper Ryan Miller chased in favor of Biron), but Alexander Ovechkin decked Buffalo Sabres Daniele Briere from behind, forcing Briere face first into the boards in front of the Sabres bench. Ovechkin was given a game misconduct for the hit, and ejected from the game. 
Quick Shave:
The Toronto Maple Leafs handed the Buffalo Sabres their first regulation loss last night, due in large part to the efforts of their Captain. Mats Sundin, set up Darcy Tucker for the game tying goal, and then scored two more himself, along with Jeff O'Neill in the second period to get the 4-1 victory. Leafs goaltender Andrew Raycroft stopped 29 shots, including 16 in the final period. Tomas Kaberle continued his relentless attack on the scoresheet, by recording an assist on Tucker's goal, his 10th point in 5 games.
The Buffalo Sabres win streak finally came to an end last night, and their bid to be the only team to start the season with 11 straight victories did as well. The Atlanta Thrashers, a team that in many ways resembles the Sabres were the first team to stop the juggernaut from Buffalo, but it took them the entire game, and overtime, and a shootout to do so.
Do you think Todd Bertuzzi had something to prove last night? He certainly silenced some of his critics last night with his 4 point night which included the first goal of the season for himself, and for the Florida Panthers.
The 2006-2007 NHL Season officially begins tonight, and what better way to kick start than with a rematch of the Eastern Conference finalists Buffalo Sabres, facing off against the team that beat them in game 7 and went on to become the Stanley Cup Champion Carolina Hurricanes? Both teams have had some turnover during the off season, but the core players that took them to the promised land last season remain. Eric Staal of the Carolina Hurricanes will look to improve upon his 100 point (45 goals, 55 assists) regular season in 2005-2006, and help his team defend their title. Staal led all player in the playoffs last season with 28 points (9 goals, 19 assists). 
