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 The Washington Capitals and Alexander Ovechkin came to play last night and walked all over the Boston Bruins.
Ovechkin assisted early on a tally by Brooks Laich and scored twice more to help the Caps to an easy 4-1 win and paying immediate dividends to Fantasy Managers who were lucky enough to nab him.
The Montreal Canadiens rallied late to force overtime and eventually steal a 4-3 victory from the Toronto Maple Leafs last night. New Habs additions Mike Cammalleri (2 assists) and Brian Gionta (1 goal ) helped their new club to the opening night victory. Scott Gomez and Brian Gionta looked to be quickly rediscovering the chemistry they once had in New Jersey a few seasons ago. On that note... seeing Gomez in a Montreal Canadiens sweater is going to take some getting used to... especially considering I was just getting used to him wearing a New York Rangers jersey.
The biggest surprise last night had to be the San Jose Sharks... and how badly they crapped the bed. The Colorado Avalanche honored Joe Sakic by raising his number to the rafters of the Pepsi Center, then soundly defeating the Sharks 5-2. The only Shark that seemed to show up last night was Patrick Marleau who potted both goals for San Jose and is clearly showing now ill-effects to having his captaincy removed and handed off to defenceman Rob Blake. The Colorado Avalanche looked a much younger and faster club than the Sharks that looked like they were coming off a playoff hangover.
The Calgary Flames defeated the Vancouver Canucks 5-3 last night, they're first opening night victory in 6 years. Flames goaltender made 39 saves to help his club to the win.
Quick Shave:
Brendan Shanahan removed himself for the New Jersey Devils lineup yesterday, announcing that he felt that he could not play at a level that he wanted to. I gotta give massive credit to Shanahan who could have coasted and just collected his paycheck for the season, but rather chose not to disrespect his club, the NHL or his legacy. Good man.
Couple of early afternoon deliveries arriving today from Europe as Florida Panther open up their season against the Chicago Blackhawks (I believe in Stockholm) and the Detroit Red Wings follow up against the St. Louis Blues in Helsinki... although those cities could be reversed... hard to say. Todays games get started at noon!
Your friend on ice,
Captain Bosh
 Colorado Avalanche forward Joe Sakic will apparently announce his retirement on Thursday.
For 20 NHL seasons, Sakic played for the Quebec Nordiques / Colorado Avalanche. In 1378 games played, Joe Sakic scored 1,641 points (625 goals, 1,016 assists), was twice a Stanley Cup Winner, appeared in 13 NHL All-Star Games, was the MVP of the Canadian gold medal team in the 2002 Olympics. Clearly a first ballot hall of famer.
There is still a chance he may represent Canada in the 2010 Olympics which take place in Vancouver.
Joe Sakic was a special player. As I stated the other day, rare are the athletes that choose to remain with the same franchise for the length of their careers. Sakic will be missed.
Congratulations on an amazing career Joe!
Your friend on ice,
Captain Bosh
 Forward Rick Nash and the only club he's ever known, the Columbus Blue Jackets agreed to terms on a new long-term contract.
The Jackets signed Nash to an extension that will pay him $62.4 million over the next 8 years. Nash collected 79 points (40 goals, 39 assists) in 78 games last season and helped the Blue Jackets to the post season for the first time in their franchises' young history.
Personally, this is the feel good story of the summer. It's nice to see Nash take the Steve Yzerman route and stay with the club he began with and hopefully finish what he started. Don't get me wrong, I would love to see him in a Rangers jersey, but overall, Nash staying Columbus is good for that community, and if he can help make that club consistently competitive, it will be good for hockey overall.
 The Colorado Avalanche dealt winger Ryan Smyth to the Los Angeles Kings today for defencemen Kyle Quincey, Tom Preissing, and 5th round pick.
Great pick-up for LA. Smyth scored 26 goals and 33 assists last year on an Avalanche team that fell off the radar last year and is apparently excited about the possibilities of lining up with a young, up and coming roster of Kings players.
The Kings were onced rumored to be interested in Heatley, but were either turned off by GM Brian Murray's asking price, or the selfishness exhibited by the player over the past month. In any case, I think they made an outstanding move. Smyth is hard working player who produces, and will provide some much needed veteran leadership. The Kings are going to be a good looking club next season.
Your friend on ice,
Captain Bosh
Colorado Avalanche forward Joe Sakic ended weeks of speculation by re-upping with his old club for one more year (and ended what has been a very quiet few weeks in the NHL... aside from the Sundin Watch).
The 39 year old Sakic signed a one year deal with the Avs worh $6 million.
Last season Sakic played just 44 games because of a hernia that required surgery, but he still posted a respectable 40 points (13 goals, 27 assists) during the regular season and another 10 points (2 goals, 8 assists) during the playoffs.
Your friend on ice,
Captain Bosh
 The Philadelphia Flyers hung on to defeat the Montreal Canadiens last 3-2... barely. The Montreal Canadiens mounted a furious comeback, and in the final moments of the third, pounded the Flyers with shots but were unable to solve goaltender Martin Biron for the second straight game.
Biron helped the Flyers climb back into the series on Saturday and last night helped them take a 2-1 series lead. Unfortunately for Habs goalie Carey Price, for every action there is an equal yet opposite reaction. Price was yanked in favor of back up Jaroslav Halak after surrendering the third goal to the Flyers.
Aside from this series, the rest of the games in this round are very one sided.
 The Pittsburgh Penguins have dominated the New York Rangers in the first two games of their series. The Rangers blew a commanding three goal lead Friday night and fell to the Penguins 5-4. On Sunday, they tightened up, and were shutout by Penguins goaltender Marc-Andre Fleury. I can't say enough good things about this club right now. They overcome adversity, they play good team defense, and they have made Rangers goaltender Henrik Lundqvist look ordinary. They have yet to lose thus far in the post season, and really look like a team of destiny right now.
Now for the bad. While I appreciate the effort, Sidney Crosby's playoff beard (term used very loosely) is undescribable. While teammates Ryan Malone, and Marian Hossa have brought the Beardgame, Crosby.... well he just can't. I will never take anything away from him as a player, but I have found his flaw. Pittsburgh fans.... we have found the new Jeff Friesen. Officer Crosby... the donuts are on us.
 I got some crap for my opinion on Joe Thornton last week, and my belief that he is not a big time playoff performer. Two games, 1 assist, two losses. The man has all the skills and tools necessary to carry this club to the promised land, but for some reason fails to do so, or at least has so far. On the positive side, the man does wield a formidable playoff beard... hopefully that facial magnificence will one day translate to Stanley Cup glory. The Dallas Stars look amazing. After knocking of the reigning Stanley Cup Champs, they look poised to easily dispatch the Stanley Cup favorite San Jose Sharks. They bring a 2-0 series lead back to Dallas tomorrow night. Marty Turco is the man.... and he is finally getting his due..... take a page from his playbook Joe.
 The sleeping giant has awoken in Detroit. After an amazing regular season, the Detroit Red Wings were tested in round 1 by the Nashville Predators, but now head to Denver with a 2-0 series lead, and look to continue their dominance over an injury depleted Colorado Avalanche lineup. The Red Wings have brought Avs goaltender Jose Theodore back down to earth and have made him look like the Theodore of old (not the MVP old Theodore... last years Rogaine Junkie Theodore). Rumors are abound that back up goaltender (formerly number one) Peter Budaj may start game 3 for the Avs. There is also a chance that Forsberg may return from the groin injury that has hampered him this round. Either way, the Avs better pulll something out of their hats.
Your friend on ice,
Captain Bosh
It took a few years, but it's apparent that Colorado Avalance goaltender Jose Theodore has rediscovered his play that secured him the Hart Trophy several seasons ago.
Jose Theodore made 34 saves last night and lifted the Avs to a 2-1 win over the Minnesota Wild, and became the third club to advance to the second round of the playoffs. The Avalanched closed out the Wild in 6 games.
In the final three games of the series, Theodore held the Wild to two goals or less. The Avs ride a three game winning streak into round 2.
Montreal Canadiens vs. Boston Bruins
The Bruins forced a game 7 in spectacular fashion last night in their 5-4 win over the Habs last night. The final 10 minutes of the game saw both clubs exchange goals and leads several times... in what had to be one of the most exciting games of the playoffs thus far. The Bruins will travel to Montreal on Monday night and attempt to do something their franchise has accomplished before in their history. Win a playoff series after being down 3-1. The pressure has surely shifted to the Canadiens. Playoff Beard Watch: Zdeno Chara.... give that man another round in the playoffs and he should be ready to start selling car insurance.
Washington Capitals vs. Philadelphia Flyers
The Washington Capitals comeback attempt is well under way. The Capitals defeated the Philadelphia Flyers 3-2 yesterday and staved (oh yeah, it's staving time) off elimination. Caps keeper Cristobal Huet made 30 saves, and Washington got goals from Backstrom, Federov and Semin to force a game 6. Phildalphia leads the series 3-2.
Today's Action:
Detroit Red Wings vs. Nashville Predators
Detroit at Nashville 3:00 PM
The Red Wings take their 3-2 series lead to Nashville this afternoon and will look to finish off the Predators. Stave time for the Preds as they will look to force a game 7.
San Jose Sharks vs. Calgary Flames
San Jose at Calgary 8:00 PM
The Sharks will attempt to close out their series as the face the Flames in Calgary. Calgary will attempt to to force another game 7.... we can only hope!
Dallas Stars vs. Anaheim Ducks
Anaheim at Dallas 9:00 PM
Do or die time for the Dallas Stars. Yes I know they have two more opportunities to win this series, but if they lose game 6, they WILL lose game 7. Exorcise the demons boys, otherwise, get your razors out.
Speaking of razors. Edge shaving gel has apparently jumped on board the playoff beard band wagon along with Gillette. Again I have to point out to both companies.... your products are for shaving. Shaving in the playoffs, means you lost. Your products represent failure!
Now, this is the time of year, when Just For Men, and other beard care products should start advertising their wares... No play for Mr. Gray. No playoffs for Mr. Freshly Shaved either.
Your friend on ice,
Captain Bosh
The Washington Capitals experienced a lot of firsts last night. The franchise first playoff appearance in the post lock-out era and the first playoff game for many of it's participants.
The Capitals enjoyed an early lead, then entered the third period down 4-2 by two goal games from Philadelpia Flyers Daniel Briere, and Vaclav Prospal. For the most part, the Flyers were able to shut down Alexander Ovechkin, keeping him without a shot in the game till the third period. Big players do big things in big spots. With roughly 4 minute remaining in the game, Ovechkin potted the eventual game winner, giving the Capitals the 5-4 win, and the 1-0 series lead over the Philadelphia Flyers.
For the Flyers this loss may be devestating. They did everything right and still couldn't come away with a victory. Keeping Ovechkin from being productive, and also buidling a two goal lead going in to the third period should have been keys to a win. The Flyers should perhaps spend time trying to take Washington Capitals defenceman Mike Green off his game. Green scored twice last night, and was the leading scoring defenceman during the regular season with 18 goals.
 New Jersey Devils vs. New York Rangers
The Rangers will return home to Madison Square Garden on Sunday night, and take with them a 2-0 series lead over the New Jersey Devils. The Rangers defeated the Devils 2-1 last night, the second time in a row, and ninth time this season. Another defensive affair, yet with more scoring opportunities and much more spice. These two clubs don't like each other and it really began to show last night. The game really came down to goaltending once again, with Rangers keeper Henrik Lundqvist coming out on top once again. Lundqvist made 26 saves on the night. Brodeur was solved in the third period once again, mostly due to a bump from his own defenceman Colin White which allowed Rangers forward Jaromir Jagr to deposit the puck on the near side. 23 seconds later, Rangers forward Sean Avery sent a wrist shot through traffic which held up as the eventual game winner.
 Pittsburgh Penguins vs. Ottawa Senators
Ottawa Senators goaltender Martin Gerber made 49 saves but even his performance wasn't enough for the Senators to capture a win. Perhaps because the Senators allowed a total of 54 shots to be fired out their goaltender? The Senators did battle back from a 3-0 defecit to tie the game at 3 goals a piece in the third, but Penguins forward Ryan Malone potted the game winner of the with less than 90 seconds to play in the game and sealed the game with an empty netter a minute later. Penguin Evgeni Malkin had three assists on the night and Peter Sykora scored twice. While the Senators were finally able to get a goal past Fleury (as well as two others), the Ottawa defence seems to be completely overwhelmed with the Penguins offensive corps. They stormed the Sens and had it not been for Gerber, the Pens could have finished the game in the first period where they outshot their opponents 20-8. Game 3 comes to Ottawa Monday night, and their are rumors that captain Daniel Alfredsson could make a return. How effective he would be, is hard to say, but I have to imagine an injured Alfredsson is better than no Alfredsson at all?
 Minnesota Wild vs. Colorado Avalanche
The Minnesota Wild evened their series 1-1 thanks to an overtime score by Wild defenceman Keith Carney to give his club the 3-2 win. Colorado Avalanche forward Peter Forsberg scored his 64th career playoff goal and gave the Avs the 1-0 lead in late in the first period. The Miinnesota Wild finally scored on Avs netminder Jose Theodore in the third. Wild forwards Pavol Demitra and Mikko Koivu scored. Koivu's goal came with less than 2 minutes to play in the game, and looked like it would hold up as the game winner till the Avs Miljan Hejduk scored to force overtime with 44 seconds left in the game. Defenceman Keith Carney prevented the Wild from heading to Denver for game 3 down 2-0 in the series.
Game of the Night:
Nashville at Detroit 2:00 PM
Boston at Montreal 7:00 PM
Dallas at Anaheim 10:00 PM
The Ducks, Bruins and Predators will all attempt to rebound today after some rather lopsided losses in game 1. Especially the Ducks. Enjoy the games!
Your friend on ice,
Captain Bosh
 The Calgary Flames stunned the San Jose Sharks last night taking game 1 and home ice advantage.
The Flames defeated the Sharks 3-2. Flames forward Stephane Yelle scored two goals, and goaltender Miika Kiprusoff made 37 saves against his former club to take the 1-0 series lead into tonight's Game 2 matchup. Defenceman Dion Phaneuf rounded out the scoring for the Flames.
Sharks forward Ryan Clowe who missed most of the regular season on the IR provided both goals for the Sharks. His line along with Patrick Marleau seemed to be the only one that consistently gave the Flames headaches during the game.
Quick Shave:
Home Ice Advantage didn't mean much last night to the Colorado Avalanche as they defeated the Minnesota Wild 3-2 last night in overtime. Joe Sakic scored roughly midway through the first period of extra time (his 8th career overtime playoff goal) to give the Avs the series lead 1-0. Game 2 is Friday night.
Your friend on ice,
Captain Bosh
Jose Theodore has become the latest castoff player to rediscover his game this season (the others being Conklin, and Samsonov). The former Hart and Vezina Trophy winner, after several sub par seasons is starting to look like the player who collected all of those accolades 6 years ago.
Having successfully reclaimed the mantle of starting netminder in Colorado, Jose Theodore has the Avalanche riding a 5 game winning streak. Last night Theodore made 27 saves to help his club to the 1-0 shutout win over the Anaheim Ducks... his second shutout victory of the year. Avs forward Wojtek Wolski recorded the lone tally for the win.
Theodore has backstopped the Avalanche for all 5 games during this recent win streak, which is the longest he's had since playing for the Habs in 2004.
 Quick Shave:
Is something brewing in Boston? The Boston Bruins were blown up again, for the second consecutive game 8-2, this time at the hands of the Toronto Maple Leafs. Leafs defenseman Bryan McCabe had a solid outting netting the game winner and assisting on three goals in the game (I actually set up a pair in the game... there were plenty to go around) The Bruins have now given up 18 goals in the last two games.... and coach Claude Julien stated that 'it's not time to panic'... reassuring words coming from a man who was fired just a few games prior to the playoffs....while helming a first place club. I can't wait to see what Tim Thomas GAA looks like tomorrow. The Leafs continue their march towards the post-season, and look to achieve that goal by closing the 6 point defecit between them and 8th place Philadelphia. What's interesting about the Eastern Conference this season is not so much who will make the playoffs but who will win the Conference itself. The Montreal Canadiens who defeated the Phoenix Coyotes 4-2 last night moved into a tie for first place with the Pittsburgh Penguins who fell to the Florida Panthers 5-2. Both clubs have 83 points. A marginal 1 point lead over the New Jersey Devils who sit in 4th with 82 points, and a 2 point cushion over the Ottawa Senators who have 81 points in 5th. The New York Rangers are 4 points behind with 79 in 6th. It's anyone's game. This year the last games of the year will not only determine who goes to the playoffs but the seating as well. Damn, I love this sport.
If you didn't know, Peter Forsberg returned to the Colorado Avalanche for the first time Tuesday night. If I had a drink for every time his name was mentioned during that game.... well I'd still be drunk right now.
Your friend on ice,
Captain Bosh
 He will return. He won't return. He will return.
The Colorado Avalanche have signed free agent forward Peter Forsberg. Forsberg has been volleying the notion of returning to the NHL all year long and after several setbacks has finally made his comeback a reality.
Agreeing to a one year deal worth $5 million with his former club the Colorado Avalanche (the deal being pro-rated, Forsberg will earn roughly $1 million for the remainder of the season). The Avs could use the boost a healthy Forsberg would bring to their lineup. They currently sit in the 10th spot overall in the Western Conference just 4 points out of the 8th and final playoff spot. The question is, did the Avs get a healthy Forsberg? Time will tell.
Your friend on ice,
Captain Bosh
Bad news for the Colorado Avalanche as they will be without their captain Joe Sakic for longer than originally thought.
Sakic has missed the last 12 Avalanche matches while he attempted to recover from a groin related injury through rehabilitation. Unfortunately the rehad was not showing progress, thus Sakic will have to undergo hernia surgery. The recovery time period for the surgery could take up to three months.
Even at 38 years of age, Sakic still produces on a high level, and has 7 goals, and 15 assists in the 24 games he's played this season. The Avalanche have are stacked with young talent, and should be able to weather the absence of Sakic till March. The Avs are currently in the 4th seed in the Western Conference and tied for 2nd place in the Northwest Division.
 Quick Shave:
Sergei Gonchar finished a game for the Pittsburgh Penguins with a - rating? Say it isn't so? Gonchar gave the Washington Capitals free passes to the net last night and was on ice for all three of their scores. Penguins forward Sidney Crosby gave Gonchar a shot at redemption (literally), and set the defenceman up the 4-3 overtime winner. The Vancouver Canucks double threat act of Henrik and Daniel Sedin had a big game last night. Henrik scored the game winner and brother Daniel put on a stunt show with a spinarama goal to beat the Miika Kiprusoff and the Calgary Flames 5-3 last night. Jarome Iginla scored a power play goal in the affair. How hot is this guy right now? Iginla has 24 goals on the season, just one behind Tampa's Vincent Lecavalier, and Detroit's Henrik Zetterberg who both lead the league with 25, and he is just 6 points behind Lecavalier's league leading 55. Iginla is carrying the Flames on his back right now.
Speaking of hot, is it me or is this season a two horse race between the Detroit Red Wings (59 points, 1st in the Western Conference) and the Ottawa Senators (54 points, 1st in the Eastern Conference)? Both clubs appear to be headed on a collision course for one another come spring. The rest of the NHL looks like a run for who can be 2nd. Detroit has a 9 point lead on the Dallas Stars, and the Ottawa Senators hold an 11 point cushion over next-best New Jersey. It's hard to imagine either club faltering and not reaching the final destination.
Your friend on ice,
Captain Bosh
 Ryan Smyth comes home this evening..... or to his former home. The once Edmonton Oiler who spent 12 years with the club will visit under a new banner. After being traded at the deadline last season to the New York Islanders as a playoff rental when a long-term deal could not be worked out, Ryan Smyth chose to sign as an unrestricted free agent with the Colorado Avalanche.
Tonight's game will be filled with mixed emotions for both the Oiler's fans, who have watched a parade of their home grown stars head for the exits upon reaching free agency, and for Smyth who presumably wanted to play his whole career in Edmonton. This is your game of the night: Colorado at Edmonton 9:30 PM
Enjoy the games.
Your friend on ice,
Captain Bosh
The Minnesota Wild are tearing it up early again. Remember last year when they exploded out of the gate while the rest of the league slept-walked through the first month of the season? Well they are doing it again.
While last years hot start was cooled by injuries to Gaborik and Demitra, the Wild are definitely looking forward this year. They have yet to lose a game in regulation, and have now won seven of their first 8 games this season.
Last night, just minutes before going to overtime with the Colorado Avalanche, Mikko Koivu broke free to score the game winner, and give the Wild the 3-2 victory. Goaltender Niklas Backstrom was solid once again making 29 saves on the evening. Backstrom continues to reward the Minnesota Wild for making him their number one netminder in favor of Manny Fernandez who was traded to the goaltending camp in Boston. The Wild currently sit atop the Western Conference and now boast the best record in the NHL.
Quick Shave:
The Vancouver Canucks stopped their losing ways last night due in large part to backup goaltender Curtis Sanford who made 35 saves to backstop his club to a 4-1 win over the surging Columbus Blue Jackets. Ryan Kesler potted two goals on the evening, and Markus Naslund and Kevin Bieksa rounded out the scoring to seal the win. Columbus Blue Jackets forward Rick Nash scored the lone goal for his team and now has a three game goal scoring streak.
Game of the Night:
San Jose at Calgary 9:00 PM
This looks to be a wholesome matchup between a couple of the big boys out West. Both teams are looking to establish themselves as powerhouses, and will have ample opportunity to do so this evening. Enjoy the games!
Your friend on ice,
Captain Bosh
"While in time I believe the San Jose Sharks will be most triumphant, ... they will never be a super team until they get Eddie Van Halen on the blue line."
-Bill S. Preston esq.
If the Sharks do want to march to the promised land, playing as they did last night will most assuredly keep them from said destination.
The Colorado Avalanche dropped the hammer on the Sharks last night, opening up a two goal lead in the first, and then burying San Jose with four more scores in the third. for the 6-2 win. Sharks forward Ryane Clowe made it interesting in the second by scoring the lone goal in the second period, and capping the scoring late in the third.
The show stopper once again was Avs forward Paul Stastny. The sophomore had his first career 5 point night (1 goal, 4 assists) just two game removed from his opening season hat trick. The Avalanche have themselves another star in the making.
Speaking of stars. Joe Sakic. The man continues to rise like Google's stock. Joe Sakic opened the scoring on a power play for the Avalanche, and set up Milan Hejduk for their second power play opportunity minutes later. The two points moved him into a tie, then surpassed NHL great Phil Esposito for 8th all time on the NHL Career points list. Congrats Joe!
Your friend on ice,
Captain Bosh
It's sad to see a team collapse as the Edmonton Oilers have this season. Since the Ryan Smyth trade, the Oilers have gone winless in their last 11 games. Their loss last night to the Avalanche officially eliminated them from the playoffs.
The Colorado Avalanche who took advantage of the less than inspirational play of their opponents and pounded the Oilers 5-1. Captain Joe Sakic scored the game winner early in the game and Ian Laperriere added a pair in the win. The Avs have been on a tear, have now won 9 out of their last 10 games. They are also rapidly closing the gap on the Calgary Flames who only hold a 4 point advantage on the Avalanche. How important is this game:
Tuesday, April 03, 2007
Colorado at Calgary 9:00 PM
I will be watching that one!
 Quick Shave:
Brendan Shanahan returned to the lineup last night for New York Rangers and assisted on two of his teams goals as they routed the Philadelphia Flyers 5-0 last night. Colton Orr knocked out Flyers forward Todd Fedoruk during an early scrum. Fedoruk had to be taken to the hospital after the fight, but is apparently doing well. The Rangers sit in 7th place with 83 points and are now 1 point behind the 6th place Tampa Bay Lightning. The Vancouver Canucks shut down the best team in the league last night in the Nashville Predators. Canucks goaltender Roberto Luongo made 20 saves for the 2-0 shutout. With that loss, the Buffalo Sabres took over the lead for the President's Trophy with their 5-2 win over the Washington Capitals.
Game of the Night:
Columbus at Detroit 7:30 PM
Not the most exciting matchup, but we may get a glimpse of Todd Bertuzzi in Red and White tonight.... so all eyes should be on this one..... however there are also several playoff sensitive matches going on, so give some love to these games:
Montreal at Boston 7:00 PM
New Jersey at Tampa Bay 7:30 PM
Pittsburgh at NY Islanders 7:30 PM
Enjoy the games!
Your friend on ice,
Captain Bosh
 What happened yesterday? Defense was thrown out the window and goaltending..... well there wasn't much of that to be found on the ice either.
Let's start off with the biggest shocker. Martin Brodeur of the New Jersey Devils may have delivered the worst game of his life yesterday afternoon. The Carolina Hurricanes pounded the future Hall of Famer for 4 goals on 12 shots, and he was immediately pulled in favor of backup goaltender Scott Clemmensen, who allowed 3 more. The Hurricanes defeated the Devils 7-2 and moved into sole possession of the 7th seed in the East. The good news for New Jersey is that when Brodeur falters like this, he rebounds rapidly and for lengthy periods of time. Expect several shutouts next week.
 Tell me the New York Islanders aren't missing Rick DiPietro. Since he's been out with a neck injury the Islanders have allowed 18 goals in three games. Backup goaltender Mike Dunham gave up 6 goals on 33 shots last night to the Florida Panthers. Panthers keeper Ed Belfour didn't fare much better but fortunately for him, he only allowed 5. The Panthers won the game 8-5, as captain Olli Jokinen scored a pair in the third to break the game open and help his team into 12th place with 73 points, just 6 points out of the playoffs. The Islanders, unable to keep pace are now tied for 9th, with Toronto and Montreal with 78 points.
At Madison Square Garden, the Bruins had a rough evening last night as well. They started off the game looking good, peppering New York Rangers goaltender Henrik Lundqvist with 13 shots in the first.... till the wheels came flying off in the second. Bruins goaltender Tim Thomas was yanked after giving up three consecutive goals and was replaced by Joey MacDonald..... who let in four more, and was replaced by Thomas..... everyone got that? The Ranger defeated the Bruins 7-0 and took control of the 8th spot in the Eastern Conference. Henrik Lundqvist made 30 saves on the evening for his 6th career shutout.
In Phoenix (thats pronounced PUH - HO - Nixx), Curtis Joseph was lit up for 6 goals as the Colorado Avalanche had their way with him and the Coyotes. Captain Joe Sakic scored two goals, as did rookie Paul Stastny, who is really starting to give Pittsburgh Penguins rookie Evgeni Malkin a run for the Calder Trophy. The Avalanche won the game 6-3 and continued their recent playoff push. They are now 6 points out of the playoffs behind the Calgary Flames.
 Dominik Hasek and the Detroit Red Wings had an off evening as well. Usually the Red Wings don't allow more than 20 shots, and in some case less than 15. The rest Hasek takes care of. The Vancouver Canucks launched 38 at the Red Wings keeper, and put three past him (wasnt' there a game earlier in the season where they were only able to put 11 shots in total on net the entire game?). The Canucks won the game 4-1 on a 33 save performance by Roberto Luongo and kept their control of the Northwest Division over Minnesota by 1 point. Detroits loss combined with Nashville's win dropped them back into 4th place in the West but still with the second best record in the League.
Game of the Night:
Ottawa at Pittsburgh 7:30 PM
The last time these two teams faced off it was awesome! Ottawa had the game in hand, so I turned it off. Pittsburgh of course waited till they knew I wasn't watching and came back to win the game in the shootout. I'd expect a similiar offensive treat. Enjoy the games!
Your friend on ice,
Captain Bosh
Yet another milestone achieved for the 2006-2007 NHL season.
Joe Sakic became the 17th NHL player to reach the 600th goal mark, and the 3rd player to do it this season. Brendan Shanahan, and Jaromir Jagr scored their 600th goals earlier this season.
Sakic had a 5 point evening, scoring 2 goals, and 3 assists and helped the Colorado Avalanche to a 7-5 victory over the Calgary Flames on Thursday evening. The Avalanche are sitting 7 points out of a playoff spot, currently in 10th place. They are battling Edmonton, and Minnesota (and Calgary and Dallas), and for the final spot.
Quick Shave:
The Pittsburgh Penguins took a big step towards maturity last night defeating the Atlantic Division New Jersey Devils 5-4 last night. What I found most impressive about this win, is how the Pens responded to the Devils late third period push, and held on to win the game. The Penguins looked like a playoff contender last night. What has happened to the San Jose Sharks? Two games, no goals, and no goaltending! The Sharks were shutout 3-0 by the Columbus Blue Jackets last night. Jackets keeper Fredrik Norrena made 29 saves for the shutout win. The Montreal Canadiens who have been crashing and burning lately received some bad news yesterady as they have lost the services of goaltender Cristobal Huet for an indefinite period after injuring his hamstring during a loss to the New Jersey Devils on Wednesday. The Habs will be leaning on David Aebischer and call-up Jaroslav Halak till his return. Bill Guerin is scoring like his old self the last few weeks. The St. Louis Blues made his lone goal stand up, and Manny Legace made 19 saves to preserve the 1-0 shutout win over the Nashville Predators. The Predators will debut their newest acquisition Peter Forsberg today at home against the Minnesota Wild.
Game of the Night:
New Jersey at NY Islanders 7:00 PM
Atlanta at Ottawa 7:00 PM
Edmonton at Toronto 7:00 PM
Minnesota at Nashville 8:00 PM
Colorado at Calgary 10:00 PM
Good stuff today, and tonight. Grab a beer, lock the door, turn off the phone, sit back and enjoy the games!
Your friend on ice,
Captain Bosh
 Jason Spezza returned to the Ottawa Senators lineup after his five week stint on the IR (curiously Yahoo never put him IR, which really messed with some rosters). Spezza was played sparingly in his first match back in over a month but still helped set up a score by Patrick Eaves. The Ottawa Senators went on to defeat the Boston Bruins last night 3-1, and have now won 12 of their last 15 matches. The Senators sit 4th overall in the Eastern Conference, and after a shaky beginning to the season appear to have regained the form that made them such a dominant team last season.
 The Anaheim Ducks will most likely welcome back star defenceman Chris Pronger to the lineup today as they face off against the Dallas Stars. Pronger has been out since the beginning of January after he suffered a broken foot which occurred from blocking a shot. The Ducks have been devestated by injuries over the past month, especially on the defensive side. Scott Niedermayer is also day to day with a stress fracture in his foot, so Pronger's return couldn't have come at a better time. Jean Sebastien Giguere was also planning to return from his groin injury shortly after the All Star break, so he could be back in the lineup soon.
Jose Theodore is expected to get his first start in almost a month for the Colorado Avalanche when they face the Detroit Red Wings today. The last time he minded the pipes he was lit up for 5 goals. Since then sophomore (pretty sure he's a second year player) Peter Budaj has assumed the starting role for the Avalanche, and performed admirably in that spot. This could very well be it for Theodore. The Avalanche have obviously lost complete confidence in him, and are perhaps seeing if he can string together a few solid starts in an effort to attract a trade for him. This is highly unlikely as his play has been awful, and the salary he carries is way too much for most teams to first be able to absorb, and two desire to take on. The Avs are probably stuck with him till his contract expires, which I believe will be following next season.
Game of the Night:
Dallas at Anaheim 3:30 PM
Colorado at Detroit 3:30 PM
San Jose at Vancouver 10:00 PM
The first two early matches should be more intriguing than exciting....well the Stars vs. Ducks game should be a good one, even though Dallas is still playing through the injury bug. The Avs Wings game should be interesting just to see how Theodore fares in his return. The gem today is the Sharks vs. Canucks. Both teams are hot, and this should be an awesome game. Enjoy the games my friends!
Your friend on ice,
Captain Bosh
1, 534 points and counting.
Last night, Colorado Avalanche forward and captain had three assists in a winning effort over the Nashville Predators. The three points pushed Sakic to 27 assists, and a team leading 44 points. Sakic's three helpers also added to his career total moving him past Paul Coffey into 10th place on the NHL's points list.
Sakic was more concerned about breaking the Avalanche out of their three game lead, which they managed to do by defeating the Nashville Predators 5-3. Peter Budaj made 26 saves on the evening and appears to have replaced Jose Theodore as the number one goaltender.
Alexander Radulov of the Nashville Predators scored again last night, and if you are looking for an available RW in your fantasy league who will contribute to your goal totals, he is worth picking up. In 26 games this season, Radulov has 18 points (11 goals, 7 assists) and is a +11.
Quick Shave:
Philadelphia Flyers forward Petr Nedved who has spent more time on the waiver wire this season than actually playing this season is about to be claimed by the Ottawa Senators on re-entry waivers. The Senators are apparently seeking a short term replacement for injured forward Jason Spezza, and Nedved may be able to find his game centering Heatley and Alfredsson......I could find my game playing between those two. Regardless, if he is placed between those guys, he might be an intriguing fantasy pickup. The Ottawa Senators were also burned in overtime last night by the Atlanta Thrashers and their former teammate Marian Hossa who assisted on all of the Thrasher's goals to win the game 3-2. The Toronto Maple Leafs thundered past the Boston Bruins last night 5-1. The victory put them into a 7th place tie with the New York Rangers with 42 points. The Buffalo Sabres proved to be too much for the New York Islanders yesterday. Ted Nolan returned to Buffalo for the first time since being fired almost 10 years ago. The Sabres goaltender Ryan Miller made 29 saves to help his club to a 3-1 win. The Phoenix Coyotes continue to rack up wins. Last night they took their third straight by knocking off the Washington Capitals 3-2. Owen Nolan had 2 points on the evening. Washington Capitals enforcer Donald Brashear was handed a one game suspension for his sucker punch on Aaron Ward of the New York Rangers Saturday Night, his second suspension of the season. Colton Orr was suspended for 5 games for his cross check on Caps star forward Alexander Ovechkin.
Game of the Night:
Anaheim at Detroit 7:30 PM
Vancouver at Calgary 9:00 PM
Even though Anaheim is being struck down by injuries, most recently losing Pronger, the match up with Detroit should still be a fantastic one. Both teams are two of the best in the West. Vancouver took the home and home series last week from Calgary and now go back to visit the Flames for a third helping. The Northwest Division is still the tightest in the league, and Calgary currently has a one point edge on Vancouver. Enjoy the games my friends!
Your friend on ice,
Captain Bosh
 Happy Thanksgiving everyone! I'd like to wish everyone a very happy holiday, and let all of you know how thankful I am for your continued support. Ok, enough with the lovefest and onto the hockey.....
Teemu Selanne is thankful today, as he recorded the 500th goal of his NHL career last night and opened the scoring for the Anaheim Ducks last night as they faced the Colorado Avalanche. Prior to his goal, the Ducks fell behind to the Colorado Avalanche 2-0 in the first period. After Selanne converted the powerplay score with less than 6 left in the second, Dustin Penner scored less than two minutes later to tie the game. The Ducks appeared to had taken the lead moments after, on a goal by Chris Kunitz but it was later waived off after a review that determined he used a kicking motion to put the puck past Theodore.
The game went on as a draw throughout the rest ofregulation and the overtime period as a 2-2 draw to finally force a shootout. J.S. Giguere stopped the first shooters but was pantsed by Joe Sakic on the backhand. Jose Theodore is thankful that he watched the highlight reel of the shootout goal Ryan Getzlaf used last month. Getzlaf tried the same power stop to back hand shot, and Theodore followed it the entire way to make the game winning save. The Colorado Avalanche were thankful to take the 3-2 victory over the Western Conference leading Anaheim Ducks.
Congratulations on 500 Teemu!
Quick Shave:
 The Columbus Blue Jackets are thankful today after signing Ken Hitchcock to a 3 year deal to become their newest head coach. Hitchcock will be coaching his first practice with the BJ's sometime today. The Vancouver Canucks are thankful that Markus Naslund is starting to score goals in bunches again. Naslund scored his 10th of the season, and Brendan Morrison (who is thankful he hasn't been traded yet) scored two, including the game winner in OT to lift the Canucks past the Detroit Red Wings 4-3. It was a week of career milestones this week as Bobby Holik potted the 300th goal of his career which the Atlanta Thrashers were thankful for as they were able to battle back and defeat the Washington Capitals 4-2. The Ottawa Senators are thankful that defenceman Wade Redden has finally returned from injury. Redden scored the game winner in overtime to help his club beat the Philadelphia Flyers 3-2. The Flyers are thankful they got a point out of the game. The Montreal Canadiens are thankful that the Minnesota Wild didn't ice their superstar forwards Pavol Demitra and Marion Gaborik who are out with injuries (probably groins) as they barely held them off for the 3-2 victory. The Leafs are thankful that the Buffalo Sabres only scored 7 goals on them last night, winning a back and forth game 7-4 (well it was back and forth for two periods, then just forth for the Sabres. Darcy Tucker is not thanking anyone as he had another 2 goal game, but was denied entry once again to the NHL HTC. The Dallas Stars are thankful they have a rookie goaltender in Mike Smith who refuses to let pucks go in the net. Smith made 17 saves last night against the Predators and recorded his second straight victory, this one by way of shutout 1-0. Goaltending controversy in Texas? The Carolina Hurricanes goaltender Cam Ward was thankful to get a rest last night. The New York Islanders were thankful that his backup John Grahame was manning the pipes as they put 4 pucks past him ( in all fairness the guy faced 20 shots in the first period, and did have a decent game) for the 4-2 victory. The Boston Bruins are thankful they didn't have to face the Pittsburgh Penguins superstar Sidney Crosby last night as they defeated the Pens by way of shootout 4-3 last night. The Tampa Bay Lightning are thankful that their losing streak in which they let in 11 goals stopped at just two games as they beat their cross state rival Florida Panthers 6-4. The Phoenix Coyotes are thankful that the New Jersey Devils were suffereing from jet lag as they toasted the Devils 3-1. The New Jersey Devils are thankful that forward Scott Gomez has returned to the lineup from his groin injury. Buy three groins. Get one free! The San Jose Sharks are thankful that even while star forward Jonathan Cheechoo is on IR they are having little difficulty finding the back of the net....as long as they aren't playing the Ducks that is....however against the Los Angeles Kings....different story. Patrick Marleau is thankful that he scored his 200th goal tonight. Pretty impressive that three players achieved career marks all on the same evening. Selanne with 500, Holik with 300, and Marleau with 200. I find myself massaging my goatee pondering this remarkable evening in the NHL. Congratulations to all three players. Finally, the Calgary Flames are thankful to be back to winning, after a bump in the road in Edmonton. The Flames bounced back to defeat the Chicago Blackhawks 4-1.
Game of the Night:
Vancouver at Nashville 8:00 PM
Only game on tonight, but I'm thankful I'll be able to relax on the couch with a Labatt Blue or nine and enjoy an excellent matchup. Vancouver should be riding high after their big win over the Red Wings, and the Preds will be looking to find their offence. Enjoy the game, your holiday and put that razor down!
Your friend on ice,
Captain Bosh
 We haven't talked much at all about Eric Lindros, but that hasn't kept him from quietly contributing to the Dallas Stars sucess thus far this season. Lindros has 12 points (4 goals, 8 assists) in 19 games this season, and helped his new team fight back into a game last night against the Colorado Avalanche.
The Avs scored 2 quick goals on their first 5 shots early in the game that saw Dallas Star's netminder Marty Turco get the hook. Captain Brendan Morrow drew the Stars even with 2 late scores in the first, but left the game in the second period with an apparent groin injury. Colorado again gained the advantage, but Dallas tied the game on a late third period goal by Eric Lindros from a centering pass by Mike Modano. Minutes later Antti Miettinen got the game winner for Dallas to complete the victory 5-4.
What's the story inbetween the pipes in Colorado? Peter Budaj, up until last night had played outstanding in net for the Avs in place of Jose Theodore who has been less than spectacular. Actually he's sucked. Theodore's confidence, has to be at an all time low, and the entire Colorado Avalanche organization can't be very confident in the tandem of keepers on the whole. Goaltending controversy in Colorado? With Pierre Lacroix no longer manning the helm at the Pepsi Center, will his successor GM Francois Giguere pull the trigger on a move to strengthen his goaltending?
Quick Shave:
Tampa Bay Lightning goalie Marc Denis set an NHL Record (I heard this on In the Tent with Clement) for allowing 7 goals in one period. 7 goals on 13 shots. Of course Captain Bosh started him tonight, so my goaltending stats are completely shot this week. Thank you Mr. Denis! The Buffalo Sabres kicked the stuffing out of the Lightning 7-2. The Nashville Predators defeated the Columbus Blue Jackets, again, 3-1. Columbus is apparently considering Ken Hitchcock (duh), and Andy Murray (wha?) for their head coaching position. What they are waiting on is beyond me. I think they will be mathematically eliminated next week. Ottawa Senators goalie Ray Emery is back, and so are the Senators. Emery stopped 42 shots to help the Sens defeat the Minnesota Wild 5-3 last night. The groin is the injury of choice still this season. Perhaps some of the trainers should advise their players to stretch during the pre-game skate? Just a thought. Toronto Maple Leafs goalie Andrew Raycroft, who was in the groin club (hmmmmm), returned from missing three games, and made 19 saves to lift the Leafs to a 4-2 win over the New York Islanders. The Pittsburgh Penguins beat the Philadelphia Flyers again, for the fourth time this season last night 5-3, but the victory may have been a costly one. Sidney Crosby left the game in the second and did not return, having suffered a...you guessed it! A groin injury. The Penguins hopes rest on their young superstar, so hopefully he will not be missing from action for too long. The Boston Bruins 4 game win streak came to a halt last night against the Florida Panthers. Panthers keeper Alex Auld made 29 saves to give his club the 3-2 win.
Game of the Night:
Carolina at NY Rangers 7:00 PM
Calgary at Edmonton 9:00 PM
San Jose at Anaheim 10:00 PM
Ok, all three of these games rock, and really you can watch them all, since they are layerd chronologically. Set up the ole NHL Center Ice Package and relax! Enjoy the games my furry friends!
Your friend on ice,
Captain Bosh
 Marek Svatos has returned with a vengeance for the Colorado Avalanche after an injury shortened season that still had him challenging for the Calder Trophy. In only 61 games last season the rookie scored 50 points (32 goals, 18 assists), and has shrugged off last season's shoulder injury (literally) to begin his 2006-2007 already at a torrid pace.
Facing the unbeaten Vancouver Canucks and their new mainstay in net Roberto Luongo, the Avs rallied from a 1 goal deficit, to take a 2 -1 lead, on goals by Wojtek Wolski (another fantasy player to watch) and Marek Svatos (it's doubtful he's available in most leagues, but if he is grab this guy). The Canucks new top line of Naslund and the Sedin twins pressured to tie the game 2-2 late in the second. The goalies took over in the third till Marek Svatos once again scored the eventual game winner late in the third on the power play and give the Avs the 3-2 victory.
Svatos is an impressive player, especially for his size. He brings everything you'd expect, speed, skill, an uncanny ability to get open (his first goal personified this), and is an excellent finisher. What you don't expect, is that he relishes the physical aspect of the game and enjoys dishing it out as often as he recieves it. His tenacity tested the patience of Canucks defenceman Willie Mitchell early in the first, and the small forward refused to yield. This guy is fun to watch, and is really a testament to the farm system and scouts of the Colorado Avalanche organization. It's amazing how this club can continue to lose players like Forsberg, and Tanguay and still remain potent offensively. Their platoon of youngsters on offence to keep an eye on include, Svatos, the above mentioned Wolski, Stastny, and Brad Richardson who is an extremely fast skater and already has 2 goals on the season.
Game of the Night:
San Jose at Calgary 8:00 PM
This looks like the tastiest dish on the menu tonight. Kipprusoff faces the team that cast him off several seasons ago, and the Sharks throw their award winning top line at their former keeper. Speaking of goalies, who do the Sharks start in net? They haven't lost, but Nabokov kept the Islanders off the scoreboard over the weekend, while Toskala had some difficulty containing the new look St. Louis Blues in their first contest. Competition seems to be favoring Nabokov thus far, but neither has faced a quality opponent yet. The Flames don't have what I would deem a high powered offence, but goals are hard to come by against them. This should be a great game. Thus....the Game of the night! Enjoy the games!
Your friend on ice,
Captain Bosh
 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!
Hockey is back!
Your friend on ice,
Captain Bosh
 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.
TONIGHT AT 9PM EST!!
Click here to listen.
Your friend on ice,
Captain Bosh
Colorado Avalanche forward and 13 year veteran of the NHL, Steve Konowalchuk sadly announced his retirement today. After an abnormal EKG reading during a pre-training camp physical, Konowalchuk went through further tests that revealed a genetic disease called Long QT Syndrome, which causes irregular heart rythms. After conferring with several physicians it was decided that retiring was his best option.
Konowalchuk spent most of his career with the Washington Capitals and was traded to the Avs in 2003. Over his 13 seasons Konowalchuk as scored 171 goals, and 225 assists while playing in 790 NHL games. I wouldn't be surprised to seem him wind up in the back offices of the Avs or Caps very soon.
Your friend on ice,
Captain Bosh
I know it's early, and I know it's only pre-season, but it's nice to see the Rangers getting off on the right foot after a lackluster finish to their promising season. The Rangers came out blazing and stunned the New Jersey Devil's Martin Brodeur for 3 goals in the first 8 minutes of the game. Blair Betts, recently acquired Adam Hall (traded in a three way deal with Nashville and Pittsburgh for Dominic Moore), and youngster Brandon Dubinsky (who's efforts to make the roster are looking better by the day) recorded the tallies for the New York Rangers. Goaltenders Al Montoya and Stephen Valiquette allowed only one goal on 25 shots.
Koivu's sights are set
Even thought the Habs fell to the Bruins tonight 5-2, the team was apparently thrilled with Saku Koivu who's eye ailment did little to prevent him from playing and assisting on a goal by Michael Ryder. It would seem that Koivu has once again persevered.
Minnesota's offseason already paying dividends
Minnesota Wild forward Marion Gaborik scored two goals including the game winner to help the Wild to a 3-2 victory over the Detroit Red Wings. Draft day trade acquisition, Pavol Demitra scored the other helper.
Penguins Malkin to make debut
With or without the blessing of the Russian hockey federation, Pittsburgh Penguins much travelled forward Evgeni Malkin will make his debut tonight against the Philadelphia Flyers. A lot of eyes will be on this game, and I'm certain it won't be just to check out Malkin's play.
I'm still hearing alot of power play opportunities are being given away. It looks like the clubs with discipline and / or polished special teams are going to be flying out the gates this season. One night after winning with superb power play units, Dallas did the exact opposite, and let the Colorado Avalanche showcase their special teams, scoring three. Every coach in the NHL must be losing his mind right now.
Tonight's Games:
Philadelphia at Pittsburgh 6:30 PM
Florida at Atlanta 7:00 PM
New Jersey at NY Rangers 7:00 PM
Tampa Bay at Washington 7:00 PM
Boston at Montreal 7:30 PM
Toronto at Ottawa 7:30 PM
San Jose at Anaheim 10:00 PM
Dallas at Phoenix 10:00 PM
Your friend on ice,
Captain Bosh
The NHL season is just around the corner! Most NHL Training Camps opened today, following pre-camp physicals that were administered yesterday.
Bruins send Zhamnov home
Already we have our first camp casualty! The Boston Bruins have sent Alexei Zhamnov packing after he failed his physical. I don't think he went on the Tkachuk Diet of 2005 in the off season (who apparently has shown up to camp 30 pounds lighter than last season), Zhamnov may still be suffering from a broken ankle that occurred in January, and ended his season. He signed with Boston last year, for three years, $12.3 million. I'm uncertain as to what the cap consequences are to the Bruins, but I'm guessing there may be none. Zhamnov will reportedly be re-examined periodically throughout the season to determine if he is able to play or not.
Tkachuk ripped!
I think it's funny how this is news, but considering how this guy treated his body to a year of beer and Ho-Ho's during the lockout season, Keith Tkachuk showing up 30 pounds lighter is apparently a very big deal. Tkachuk has arrived at Blues camp this year at a wholesome 229 pounds, and appears to have re-dedicated himself to the sport that pays him ungodly sums of money. Way to hit the stairmaster and lay of the wings Keith!
Blues sign Dvorak
The UFA pool just keeps getting more and more shallow. The St. Louis Blues have scooped up former Oiler Radek Dvorak to provide penalty kill and roster depth.
Avs Konowalchuk to have heart examined
One of the great things about these physicals, is that they do make sure these guys are ready to play, but also can help detect severe health problems. During an EKG test done on Konowalchuk, a heart abnormality was discovered and he is now being thoroughly examined. He will be put on the shelf temporarily till they determine the full scope of the problem.
TSN unveils its NHL 2006-2007 NHL Preview!
This is great, and I highly recommend all my bearded friends check it out. TSN really gives you a nice inside look at all of the teams, and definitely gets you salivating for the opening face off. You can check out the NHL PREVIEW HERE!
Your friend on ice,
Captain Bosh
No surprise there. Everyone and their mother predicted he would be a first ballot hall of famer. Do I really need to say what a kick ass goaltender Patrick Roy was? I didn't think so.
Joining him, is some dude named Dick Duff, who has to have one of the coolest names I've ever heard. He was an original six forward who has been waiting some 30 years for his induction in to the Hall. The other inductee's are Harley Hotchkiss, an owner of the Flames and a chairman for the NHL's board of governors, and Herb Brooks, the man who brough respectability to American hockey.
I don't know anything about Duff, and Hotchkiss, but Roy and Brooks are no-brainers. Great choices, and worthy of the honor.
McCabe deal is going through
Looks like the deal that is going to force the Ottawa Senators to lose one of their UFA defenceman has been accepted. Bryan McCabe has resigned with the Toronto Maple Leafs for 5 more years and $5.75 million a year. Probably a bit more than he is worth, but Toronto had to secure him before the Free Agent deadline begins, or risk losing him to higher bidders. Either way, the market has been set, so I would expect to see Chara, Redden, and Lidstrom looking for $7 to $8 million per season.
Luongo ready to sign long-term with Canucks?
Looks that way. Reports are that the Canucks are looking to lock up Luongo to a 4 year deal worth $28 million. $7 million a year! With the salary of Bertuzzi no longer on their minds, looks like the Canucks are ready to solidify the crease for years to come. If they do go through with this, I can't imagine them not trading Dan Cloutier.
Your friend on ice,
Captain Bosh
I apologize for the downtime folks, I had some technical difficulties sponsored by the fine folks over at Verizon.
A lot happened on Saturday....here's a quick rundown:
Atlanta sent Patrik Stefan (a #1 pick years ago, and their first draft pick ever if I'm not mistaken) and Jaroslav Modry to Dallas for Niko Kapanen and a 7th round pick.
Kings traded Pavol Demitra to the Minnesota Wild for Patrick O'Sullivan and their 1st round pick. The Kings used the pick to draft Trevor Lewis...who apparently is a bad ass from the USHL. Demitra should help Gaborik offensively, but this was definitely the WTF trade of the day. When it was announced the entire arena gasped. I did as well.
The Avalanche traded Alex Tanguay to Calgary for defenceman Jordan Leopold, a 2nd round pick, and an conditional pick in 2007 or 2008. Iginla finally gets his wingman. I expect these two to put up some impressive numbers next year. Now they just need a center to get them the puck......
Blackhawks buy out Matt Barnaby and Curtis Brown. No surprise there. They should buy out the management there, which next to Boston and the previously the Islanders (before the purge) is the worst in the league....and perhaps in sports.
Canadiens resign Cristobal Huet to a 2 year deal, which I guess means David Aebischer is now on the available goalie list. Perhaps they should wait and see, in case Huet goes into a Raycroft like slump in his sophomore year. What a segue! Raycroft got traded Saturday, but I can't remember to whom...nor do I really care.
Same goes for Dan Cloutier who I think is making way too much money to be a backup, since he will most certainly be waxing the bench while watching Luongo start.
Phoenix just traded defencemen Paul Mara and a pick to Boston for Nick Boyton and a pick.
Pronger is apparently on his way out of Edmonton. Where and when is the question. What do the Oilers need, and who needs a solid blueliner that can 75 minutes a game? Not too many teams right!
More to come!
Your friend on ice,
Captain Bosh
Thanks for showing up Dallas. Well, there goes one pick down in flames. The Colorado Avalanche finished off the second seeded Dallas Stars in 5 games with a 3-2 OT victory. Andrew Brunette scored the game winner past Marty Turco and Jose Theodore made 11 saves in extra time to complete the series. For more on this visit TSN.ca.
That Joe Thornton trade looks better every day for San Jose. The Sharks beat Nashville 2-1 yesterday and finished off the series in 5 games. Patrick Marleau netted his 7 goal of the playoffs for the Sharks. For more on this visit TSN.ca.
The Carolina Hurricanes after losing the first two at home have won three straight and are now in a position to finish off the Habs in Montreal on Tuesday. Another team I picked showing some life!
Philadelphia on the other hand is in some trouble. After being shutout by Buffalo 3-0 yesterday, they are now on the brink of being knocked out of the playoffs. However I did pick Philadelphia in 7 games, so things are moving along as I have planned.....or are they?
Playoff Leaders:
Patrick Elias 5 goals 6 assists 11 points
Martin Havlat 6 goals 4 assists 10 points
Jason Spezza 2 goals 8 assists 10 points
Dany Heatley 2 goals 8 assists 10 points
Brad Richards 3 goals 5 assists 8 points
Last night's scores:
Philadelphia 0 Buffalo 3 F
Colorado 3 Dallas 2 F (OT)
Montreal 1 Carolina 2 F
San Jose 2 Nashville 1 F
Tonight's games:
Detroit at Edmonton 8:05 PM
Calgary at Anaheim 11:00 PM
Enjoy the games!
Your friend on ice,
Captain Bosh
It's time to find out if Colorado GM Lacroix's gamble on an injured Jose Theodore will pay dividends. According to TSN.ca, Avs coach Joel Quennville may start Jose Theodore Sunday against the Minnesota Wild. Colorado is desperately hanging on in the 7th playoff spot with 90 points. San Jose is right on their heels with 89 points and Vancouver behind them with 87 points. Judging by Jose's tremendously thick and lusterous lid, Propecia undoubtedly works.....but can it work well enough to save Colorado's season?
Last night's scores:
Carolina 4 at Washington 3
Columbus 5 at Detroit 6
Pittsburgh 5 at Florida 1
Philadelphia 4 at Buffalo 2
Edmonton 4 at Chicago 3
Minnesota 1 at Calgary 2
Game of the night:
Calgary at Vancouver 10:00 PM
If Vancouver wants to make the playoffs, tonite would be a great evening to show it. However, tonite's contest will be no easy task as Calgary is eager to lock up the Northwest and secure a playoff spot themselves. Enjoy the games!
Your friend on ice,
Captain Bosh
Calgary Flames acquire Jamie Lundmark from the Phoenix Coyotes for a draft pick.
Vancouver Canucks acquire Eric Weinrich from the Blues for a prospect and a pick.
Phoenix Coyotes acquire Oleg Kvasha from the Islanders for a third round pick.
Dallas Stars acquire defenceman Willie Mitchell and a 2007 2nd round pick from the Minnesota Wild in exchange for defenceman Martin Skoula and Shawne Belle.
Philadelphia Flyers acquire forward Nikos Dimitrakos from the San Jose Sharks in exchange for a third round draft pick.
Colorado Avalanche acquire forward Jim Dowd from the Blackhawks in exchange for a fourth round pick.
Ottawa Senators acquire forward Tyler Arnason from the Chicago Blackhawks in exchange for forward Brandon Bochenski and a pick.
Edmonton Oilers acquire forward Sergei Samsonov from the Boston Bruins in exchange for forward Marty Reasoner, a second round pick and a minor league player.
Atlanta Thrashers acquire defenceman Steve McCarthy from the Canucks in exchange for a condition pick in 2007.
Detroit Red Wings acquire defenceman Cory Cross from the Pittsburgh Penguins in exchange for a fourth rounder.
Nashville Predators acquire Brendan Witt from the Caps in exchange for a first round pick and forward Kris Beech.
New York Rangers acquire defenceman Sandis Ozolinsh from the Ducks in exchange for a third round pick.
Phoenix Coyotes acquire defencemen Jamie Rivers from the Detroit Red Wings in exchange for a seventh round pick in 2007.
Damn! A whole lotta action! I'll give you guys some breakdowns, plus winners and losers tomorrow!
Your friend on ice,
Captain Bosh
Montreal Canadiens have dealt goaltender Jose Theodore to the Colorado Avalanche for goaltender David Aebischer! This would have been a great deal for Colorado if Theodore didn't have a broken foot. More on this later.
Your friend on ice,
Captain Bosh
The San Jose Sharks have acquired forward Ville Niemene from the New York Rangers for a third round pick in the 2006 NHL Draft.
The Toronto Maple Leafs have acquired defenseman Luke Richardson from the Columbus Blue Jackets for a fifth round pick and conditional fourth round pick.
The Los Angeles Kings have acquired forward Mark Parrish and defenceman Brent Sopel from the New York Islanders for defenceman Denis Grebeshkov, and forward Jeff Tambellini and a conditional third round pick.
BREAKING NEWS
Just heard on MSG, that the Colorado Avalanche have traded David Aebischerr to Montreal for Jose Theodore!. More to come on this.
The Capitals are not dressing Brendan Witt this evening. This is almost a certainty that he will be dealt in the coming hours.
Derrick Morris has signed a contract extension with the Phoenix Coyotes.
Your friend on ice,
Captain Bosh
While the Olympic tournament has been exciting to watch, it has been also a time of concern and potential disaster for a few NHL teams.
The biggest has to be Dominik Hasek. The Ottawa Senators had been riding high on the legs of Hasek all year, and 1 period into the Olympics, he gets injured, or re-injured rather. His groin, which has been suspect for some time has reared its ugly head again, and now has GM John Muckler scrambling with 2 weeks to go before the trade deadline to determine whether to acquire a goaltender or not.
Peter Forsberg, also playing with a sore groin, and the key word is playing....is risking a season ending injury, thus completely destroying the hopes of the Flyers making it to the Stanley Cup Finals.
Patrick Elias was injured early in the tournament, the extent of which I'm not sure of, but he has been kept out since.
Joe Sakic received a fractured cheekbone and lovely beauty mark during a game against Switzerland.
The Canucks have just received word that not only was Mattias Ohlund injured with broken ribs for Sweden, but Sami Salo, another Canucks defenseman, has suffered a shoulder injury.
Jaromir Jagr almost appeared lost for the season after an elbow to the skull.
It's been interesting, and perhaps has changed the scope of this NHL season, not to mention the policies in following seasons. We'll see.
Your friend on ice,
Captain Bosh
Colorado Avalanche goalie David Aebischer stopped 40 shots to lead the Swiss team to victory over the Czech Republic 3-2 this morning.
Sweden vs. Russia IN PROGRESS
Scoreless in the first. More to come.
Your friend on ice,
Captain Bosh
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