Well Toronto Maple Leaf fans, your day has arrived!
The Anaheim Ducks will be holding a press conference this afternoon where they plan to announce that Bob Murray will be taking over as General Manager in place of Brian Burke. Burke will be in attendance and reportedly be speaking as well.
The Brian Burke to Toronto Maple Leafs rumor has been flying around for nearly a year and looks as though it will finally become a reality. One has to wonder how long before he assumes control of that ship.
Food for thought... I wonder what Burke and Sundin really spoke about last week when they met? Bosh is rubbing his whiskers.
Anaheim Ducks forward, enforcer and owner of the finest facial hair in the NHL scored in his club's 3-2 shootout win over the Toronto Maple Leafs last night.
To say the Ducks are having a rough start is the understatement of the year. The Ducks were unable to register a shot in the third period of the game last night but somehow managed to squeak out a victory over a Toronto Maple Leafs roster that is peppered with 3rd line players at best. George Parros for the record, is now second on the team in goal scoring after potting his second of the year last night.
Anaheim's young gun stars of Ryan Getzlaf and Corey Perry have both been blanked on the score sheet this season, neither registering a goal. Teemu Selanne has just 1 goal in 7 games and is a -4 rating. Free agent pickup Brendan Morrison has two points and is a -3. What does all this mean? Last place in the Western Conference.
Quick Shave: The Marian Gaborik trade watch is officially on now that rumors broke yesterday that the Minnesota Wild have already offered him up as a potential trade. An 'unnamed' NHL exec reported that Wild GM Doug Risebrough had been actively shopping their star forward.
Is this really a surprise? This is the same scenario as last year, when the Atlanta Thrashers were unable to re-sign Marian Hossa. Thrashers deal Hossa to the Pens for a package of picks and players, Hossa is a Penguin for a few months, and then leaves Pittsburgh high and dry for Detroit.
Gaborik never had any intention of re-signing with the Wild. He plans to test the market. Any team considering trading for him, should be well aware of that as well, and look closely to what happened to Pittsburgh. You may get him for the rest of the year, but there will be no guarantees he will be wearing your club's jersey come July 1st... which really is when team's should bid on his services.
The Chicago Blackhawks placed goaltender Nikolai Khabibulin on waivers today.
Khabibulin appeared to be the goalie on the way out after the Blackhawks made a surprising dip into the free agent pool and signed UFA keeper Cristobal Huet to a 4 year deal worth $22.5 million. Khabibulin was on the final year of a 4 year deal worth $27 million.
The Blackhawks are believed to working on a trade for the Khabibulin but his high salary makes moving him difficult, if not impossible.
The Pittsburgh Penguins got some rough news today (as did NHL Fantasy Managers) when they announced that the club would be without star defenceman Sergei Gonchar for 4-6 months. Gonchar will undergo surgery to repair his left shoulder. Gonchar was injured during the a pre-season game against the Tampa Bay Lightning.
The Penguins also lost defenceman Ryan Whitney till December with a foot injury.
The Anaheim Ducks re-signed forward Teemu Selanne to a two year deal worth $5.25 million this week, just days after clearing cap space by trading defenceman Matthieu Schneider to the Atlanta Thrashers.
Selanne sat out more than half the season last year as he contemplated retirement, but with 26 games remaining chose to return to action.
While it took a week longer than I expected, Anaheim Ducks defenceman Mathieu Schneider finally has a new home.
Last week Schneider was waived by the Anaheim Ducks in an effort to clear much need salary cap space. After clearing waivers, and then again re-entry waivers, Schneider was back with the Ducks, or in limbo rather as he agreed not to report to camp while Ducks GM negotiated a trade for the defenceman.
The Ducks traded Schneider to the Atlanta Thrashers in exchange for defenceman Ken Klee, and forwards Brad Larsen, and Chad Painchaud. The deal clears a little over $3 million in salary cap space for Burke and the Ducks.
This is the second time this summer Burke has had to deal with salary cap problems. The Ducks bought out the contract of forward Todd Bertuzzi earlier during the off-season.
Pre-Season is in full swing. I'm not sure how it is around the rest of the league, but the New York Rangers have been televising every game, and since Saturday, there has been one a night (which has left the players a little worn out, judging by their play last night), which has been a great teaser for the upcoming season. Nice to see some of the young guns on the Rangers battle for roster spots, as well as watch Tampa's new young stud Steve Stamkos showcase his goods (he showed first hand why he was drafted #1 by cranking a beautiful shot in their first meeting).
Hopefully all of you Fantasy GMs have your rosters fine tuned for the upcoming season!
Unable to find a suitable trading partner, the Anaheim Ducks waived defenceman Mathieu Schneider yesterday.
Schneider was rumored to be on the trade block for a good part of the summer as a solution to clear cap space for the Ducks so they could re-sign forward Teemu Selanne. The Ducks are loaded with defencemen and Schneider was unfortunately the odd man out. He will likely find a new home by the end of the week.
The Flaming Bertuzzi. A cocktail made from exotic top shelf liquors, or a finishing move employed by professional cage fighters? You decide.
Yesterday was the day of the veterans... or a day for the veterans. A week after the initial free agent signing explosion, the older players who flew under the radar have begun to get scooped up. Todd Bertuzzi, was signed by the Cagary Flames to a one year deal worth $1.95 million, the Tampa Bay Lightning signed forward Mark Recchi to a one year deal worth $1.25 million, and the Minnesota Wild acquired forward Owen Nolan for two years at $2.75 million per season. Center Brendan Morrison is close to finalizing a deal that will bring him to the Anaheim Ducks.
NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman put an end to the feud (much to our dismay) between Anaheim Ducks GM Brian Burke, and Edmonton Oilers GM Kevin Lowe yesterday, a few days after Lowe finally shot back after a years worth of Burke's verbal barbs. Got to give Lowe a ton of credit, as he really ripped Burke, and gave me some new perspective on the guy. Maybe the Leafs should think twice before annointing him the savior of their franchise, he may leave it in worse shape than it already is. Isn't it funny how Bettman had to step in, after Lowe shot back? Little favoritism for Burke there? Me thinks there is!
The NHL is close to finalizing the third Winter Classic, which would reportedly be held at Wrigley Field in Chicago. The outdoor match would be between the Chicago Blackhawks and the Detroit Red Wings on New Years Day. The last two have been great, and I really hope that this becomes an annual event.
No hesitation or mid-season returns this year. Anaheim Ducks defenceman Scott Niedermayer officially announced that he would back with his club for the final year of his contract.
Unlike last year, GM Brian Burke asked that Niedermayer and Teemu Selanne make the decisions regarding their playing future known prior to the free agent deadline on July 1st. Niedermayer is ready for action. Selanne who is an unrestricted free agent has yet to decide, but is rumored to either play for the Ducks or retire.
The Toronto Maple Leafs and GM Cliff Fletcher may not be finished cleansing the roster of it's aging high priced talent just yet. Defenceman Bryan McCabe is now in the hot seat, and may be asked to waive his no-movement clause. A standoff may be in the making here, as rumors are swirling that if McCabe does not comply with Fletcher's wishes, he will not be welcome at the Leafs training camp. McCabe has stated that he will not be forced into any decision and a grievance would be filed with the NHLPA if necessary.
In other Leaf news, 42 year old free agent to be Gary Roberts would like to join the club, but reports are that Fletcher would not be turning to him for veteran leadership. I think I would have to agree with Fletcher on that one.
After viewing better quality footage, the NHL handed Anaheim Duck's defenceman Chris Pronger an 8 game suspension for his skate stomp to the leg of Vancouver Canucks forward Ryan Kesler. Pronger's suspension pales in comparison the 30 day special that New York Islanders forward Chris Simon recieved for an almost duplicate incident.
There is clearly a double standard. While Pronger's actions had to be addressed, the man puts the fans in the seats... where Simon does not. I don't agree with it. It's just the way it is, and it is something that will never change.
Quick Shave: New Jersey Devils goaltender Martin Brodeur has done it again. Broduer made 24 saves earlier today and helped the Devils to a 4-2 win over the Colorado Avalanche, his 40th victory of the season. Brodeur has now won 40 games or more in a record seven NHL seasons. We are watching the greatest goaltender in NHL history right now. Drink it in folks.
Anaheim Ducks defenceman Chris Pronger has managed to pull off the infamous skate blade stomp on another player and get away free and clear.
In a game last night, against the Vancouver Canucks, Pronger stomped on the calf of Canucks forward Ryan Kesler following a collision early in the game. Kesler was uninjured on the play but was convinced Pronger deliberately dropped his skate blade on his leg.
Pronger is no stranger to suspensions. He was suspended twice last year during the playoffs, once during the Western Conference Finals, and again during the Stanley Cup Finals.
What's unusual about this incident is that then New York Islanders forward recieved a 30 game suspension for a similiar act he pulled against Pittsburgh Penguins forward Jaarko Ruutu. Granted, Simon was fresh off a suspension for attempting to decapitate Rangers pest Ryan Holleweg the previous year, and has a history of pulling maneuvers that most with common sense would not. While Pronger doesnt' quite have the history Simon does, he is far from being a Lady Byng candidate. The major difference between the two is that Pronger is a superstar, and Simon is not. The NHL should look into this further.
Here is the video of Pronger's alleged skate stomp.
Teemu Selanne officially announced his return to the NHL and the Anaheim Might Ducks today.
Selanne who had pondered retirement for the summer and half of the regular season, felt he still had the passion to play. The Anaheim Ducks and the star winger agreed to terms on a one year contract for $1.5 million, which will pay Selanne roughly $600,000 for the remainder of this season.
Selanne will be an offensive boost for the Ducks as he led the team in scoring last year with 90 points (40 goals, 50 assists) in 80 games played. The Ducks will be one of the teams to go through in order to come out of the West for certain.
By the way, for you Fantasy Managers, if he's still available in your league, scoop him up.
Teemu Selanne has been found! Not just found, actually skating! Ok, lets put the salt and pepper on this entree..... skating at Anaheim Ice!
If there was ever a chance of Selanne returning to action, it probably hasn't been this good ever. Selanne, according to the Los Angeles Times, has been a skating program at the Ducks' facilities to determine if he is mentally prepared (and phsyically I would assume) to play another season in the NHL.
Selanne has yet to file retirement papers, and has stated repeatedly that if he were to return, it would be only with the Anaheim Ducks. GM Brian Burke has about $2 million worth of cap room to work with and should have little difficulty maneuvering a contract in place for the 37 year old winger.
Whether he plays or not, I would expect a decision by Selanne in the very near future.
It's official folks. After months of debate, and speculation the Anaheim Ducks GM Brian Burke announced last night that defenceman Scott Niedermayer will be returning to their lineup and the NHL.
Niedermayer spent the summer and the beginning of the season flirting with retirement, but over the past month began training and obviously the fire to compete still rages within. The Ducks may have to make some roster moves to accomodate Niedermayer and the roughly $4 million remaining of his salary this year. Rumors will begin flying again as Matthieu Schneider who was acquired by the Ducks over the summer via free agency (a move Burke made anticipating the possible retirement of Niedermayer) may be the odd man out and the subject of trades.
The Ducks can really use the boost that Niedermayer will bring to their lineup as they are currently a shadow of their Championship club a year ago, and sit 11th in the Western Conference. Help is on the way boys! Quick Shave:
The Ottawa Senators finally snapped their losing skid last night, dropping the Florida Panthers 5-4. Panthers captain Olli Jokinen made things interesting scoring with 13 seconds left in the game (his second of the evening), but the Sens managed to hold on to the rare win. The New Jersey Devils, on the other hand are probably the hottest team in the NHL right now, and are actually finding it impossible to lose these days (however, now that I've mentioned, I've probably doomed them to a lenghtly slide). The Devils grinded out a 4-3 overtime victory over the Boston Bruins on a goal by former captain Patrik Elias, his second of the evening. Ironically the Devils announced their new captain Jamie Langenbrunner, just prior to the match, with very little fanfare. Devils forward Zach Parise scored twice in the match, his 11th and 12th of the year.
Todd Bertuzzi will return this evening to face his old team the Vancouver Canucks.
Now three teams removed since being traded by the Canucks to the Florida Panthers for goaltender Roberto Luongo (then traded later last year to the Detroit Red Wings), Bertuzzi visit's his former home now as an Anahiem Duck. While Luongo has gone on to flourish, Bertuzzi has been stuck in neutral, hampered by injuries, this season's latest a concussion, which has sidelined him since October 15th. His return to the lineup is perhaps a bigger deal for the Anaheim Ducks.
These homecomings of sorts for players nowadays are more common place, but still seem to tug at our heart strings, and most certainly our curiousity. I'm sure many will be watching this match tonight, but is it really that big of a deal? I watched the Ryan Smyth return last month to Edmonton.... and it was exactly what I expected it to be. Smyth was blubbering uncontrollably prior to the match, and wasn't much of a factor during the game itself. The return is more about the fans. How will they receive the high priced merc that walks through their doors in another squads colors? Ask Chris Pronger if he felt slighted that he didn't get a reception similar to the one Smyth received.
Tonight's Prediction: Bertuzzi wells up, as fans serenade him with praise (except for the real fans up top who will give him the real 411), and then he will go pointless tonight, -2 rating, and 4 minutes in penalties. Regardless of my pessimisstic view, I still snagged him on one my fantasy rosters.
Quick Shave:
The city of Philadelphia is loaded with idiots. That much is certain. The Philadelphia Flyers are a personification.... or rather a celebration of those idiots. What the hell is wrong with this club. I'm all for physical hockey, don't get me wrong, but I'm for hockey first and foremost. This season, the Flyers have set a standard, that when they see an opponent's skull they must smash it with a stick, or an elbow, or thrust said cranium into the boards. WHAT THE HELL IS WRONG WITH YOU GUYS! No need to answer, because I know. You are from Philadelphia. Last night, Flyer's forward Scott Hartnell hit Andrew Alberts face first into the boards (eerily similar to the way Jones hit Bergeron last month). Hartnell recieved a game misconduct (which will surely be followed by a suspension of some sort today or tomorrow) and Alberts left the game with a head injury (deemed unspecified....huh?). In any case, the Boston Bruins while they didn't out muscle the Flyers, they did outplay them. The Bruins won 6-3 on a two goal evening from Glen Murray, and rookie goaltender Tuuka Rask won his second game in as many starts. The Dallas Stars have been unstoppable since they relieved Doug Armstrong of the GM duties. Last night, the Stars defeated the New York Islanders 3-2 in overtime on a game winner by Mike Modano, his second of the game. The Stars have now won 6 in a row, and are at the top of the Pacific Division.
The Phoenix Coyotes claimed goaltender Ilya Bryzgalov off waivers early this morning and is expected to play for the Coyotes this afternoon when they face the Los Angeles Kings. The Coyotes will get a significant upgrade in net from their current tandem of Alex Auld and Mikael Tellqvist in Bryzgalov, and he in turn will get a shot at proving that he can be a legitimate number one goalie in the NHL.
Keep your eyes and ears out for Niedermayer's return from semi-retirement to play for the Anaheim Ducks.
This is a major shocker to me.... and honestly I'm surprised it hasn't met with more press.
The Anaheim Ducks waived their backup goaltender Ilya Bryzgalov yesterday. Bryzgalov has been a mainstay on the rumor mills since last year, and his name has been popping up frequently this young season as there are several teams desperate for a legitimate goaltending presence ( which I think Bryzgalov is, and has been, but has unfortunately been positioned behind a very solid keeper in Jean-Sebastien Giguere). Bryzgalov has been linked with every NHL franchise that needs help between the pipes this year including the Los Angeles Kings, Tampa Bay Lightning, Pittsburgh Penguins, and i'm sure the Toronto Maple Leafs. I will be even more shocked if this guy isn't plucked off waivers today.
Ducks GM Brian Burke has obviously been unable to find a suitable trade partner for his keeper, or a deal that will satisfy his precariously tight salary cap issues. Isn't it odd that this waiver move comes just a week after Burke has been championing the cause of team's being able to parlay some of a player's salary in a trade? Even more curious is that Bryzgalov is put on waivers after rumors of a possible return by former captain and defenceman Scott Niedermayer? All of these things couldn't be coincidence could they? Certainly not. Burke is obviously trying to clear cap space for Niedermayer's return. I can't imagine dumping an asset like Bryzgalov otherwise. This could be a very interesting storyline.
Quick Shave:
Martin Brodeur is finding it almost as difficult to reach that 500th win as it was for Alex Rodriguez to hit his 500th homerun (I know it's a baseball reference, but in the New York area the media has been focused on Rodriguez, Don Imus, how much the Jets suck, and little else). The New York Islanders got a short handed score from Josef Vasicek and that was all they needed to defeat Brodeur and the New Jersey Devils 1-0. Broduer made 25 saves in the match, but it was one short of the 26 Rick DiPietro made to win the game. It was a pretty big night for a few goaltenders last night actually, as Johan Hedberg made 31 saves to help the Altanta Thrashers to a 3-0 shutout win over the Carolina Hurricanes, and the Buffalo Sabres recieved a strong effort from netminder Ryan Miller who made 36 saves in a 4-1 win over the Montreal Canadiens.
Game of the Night:
Ottawa at Toronto 7:00 PM
Anaheim at San Jose 10:30 PM
I think Toronto is due. The Ottawa Senators have had their way with the Leafs for as long as I can remember, but every match these teams play is always a classic. I know the Leafs don't like playing defence, but there is no denying that they are one of the most potent offensive teams in the league. If they every focused on back-checking they would be a scary team indeed. The Ducks and Sharks will clash late night this evening, in what will be a preview to a certain post season clash. Enjoy the games!
The Minnesota Wild shut the doors on the Stanley Cup Champion Anaheim Ducks last night 2-0. Backup goaltender Josh Harding made 37 saves to record the shutout win, the third of his career.
Jean-Sebastien Giguere returned to the lineup from injury last night for the Ducks, but unfortunately he may have traded places with winger Todd Bertuzzi. Bertuzzi was checked after a crossing feed during the first period, and never returned to the game. TSN.ca is reporting it could be a concussion, but the hit (although difficult to see) was shoulder on shoulder and I'm speculating it could be his back (which kept him out for most of last season) which took the brunt of that hit.
The Ducks who are already starved for offense since the departure of Teemu Selanne and Scott Niedermayer, cannot afford the loss of another point getter (even though Bertuzzi hasn't gotten many points in the past two years).
Quick Shave:
The Detroit Red Wings downed the Los Angelse Kings last night 4-1 on a strong performance from forward Henrik Zetterberg. HZ had a goal and two helpers in the win. Kings goaltender Jonathan Bernier was in net again in favor of Jason LaBarberra. Neither goaltender has been stellar for Los Angeles this season which makes me wonder if they will make a move for a goalie soon, or perhaps look at Curtis Joseph, who I heard last night during one of the games is eager to continue playing and is still training in hopes of being signed. We'll see.
The new jersey award thus far has to go to the Washington Capitals. Of all the new looks in the NHL, I think they got it right. Clean, classy, and back to their old school look. Well done!
Game of the Night:
Toronto at Buffalo 7:00 PM
Detroit at Anaheim 10:00 PM
San Jose at Vancouver 10:00 PM
Three games tonight, and they all look pretty good. The Leafs and Sabres game should end up being defense free, so expect a 7-6 game. Out West later tonight are 4 teams that could end up being the final four in the Western Conference..... enjoy watching these giants tussle. Enjoy the games!
The 2007-2008 NHL regular season begins (in North America) this evening with 4 pretty decent matchups.
Anaheim at Detroit 7:00 PM
This is myGame of the Night. A rematch of last season's Western Conference Finals between the Detroit Red Wings and the Anaheim Ducks. I'm sure there will still be some bad blood on both sides, and much animosity towards everyone's beloved defenceman Chris Pronger (for his first elbow to the head in the playoffs to Detroit's Tomas Holstrom), as well as the lingering bad taste in the Wings mouths after being dumped by the Ducks in 6 games.... en route to their Stanley Cup Championship.
Montreal at Carolina 7:00 PM
Will the Habs showcase their young superstar goaltender Carey Price tonight? Will the Carolina Hurricanes rebound from a dreadful post Stanley Cup season that they endured last year?
Ottawa at Toronto 7:30 PM
Good old fashion Canadian throwdown. If there was an octagon, the Leafs and Sens would be in it. The Toronto Maple Leafs will most likely go with their new goaltender Vesa Toskala (although Paul Maurice has been coy regarding who would be his starting netminder thus far) in net this evening, while the Senators will lean on Martin Gerber who lost the starting role to the now injured Ray Emery. All eyes will be on the Senators to see if they will have a hangover from losing in the Stanley Cup Finals last year.
Dallas at Colorado 9:30 PM
Kind of curious to see how the addition of Ryan Smyth will affect the Colorado Avalanche's lineup, and also very curious to see where Dallas will get their goal scoring from..... good thing the Stars have Turco in net.
Quick Shave:
Could this be the last season in Ottawa for Senators forward Dany Heatley? The Sens were trying to work out a last minute deal prior to the start of the season tonight, but talks broke down again last night. The Senators appear to be resigned to the fact that they will have to wait till after the playoffs next year to attempt re-signing their star forward. If Heatley has another season like his last two he will command some serious dollars on the open market.... some speculate he could recieve offers in excess of $10 million per season if he becomes a UFA.
The NHL in Europe experiment ended yesterday with the Anaheim Ducks rebounding to take a 4-1 win (the identical score that the Kings defeated them by the previous evening) over the Los Angeles Kings and send both teams home with a split.
Corey Perry had a solid night scoring two goals for the Ducks, while teammate Andy McDonald assisted on a pair (including Perry’s first power play score). Kings forward Mike Cammalleri scored his third goal in 2 games for the Kings late in the third but it was too little too late.
Both teams seem to find their discipline and cut down on the specialty teams play in this match after a penalty filled affair on Saturday night.
The spotlight of the evening was when Ducks heavyweight and Playoff Beard.com favorite George Parros dropped the gloves to do a little man dance with Kings tough guy Scott Thornton. The European crowd responded with a standing ovation.
Overall I think the introduction of the NHL to European market was well done. From what the commentators were saying, there was little to no marketing (something the NHL still hasn’t mastered) for the event, and both nights were sold out. For us in the United States it was a shame the first game wasn’t televised (Stache said the game was bumped in favor of college football….. which much to my agreement, is as exciting as watching fishing), actually it was a travesty. Opening night in the NHL, and we can’t watch. Problem. For the players, the games appear to have been well received. While initially not thrilled with the aspect of the extra travel, the event and city seemed to have changed their minds on considerably.
The 2007-2008 NHL season is underway (20 minutes in thus far), and while we the less fortunate in the U.S. will be unable to view the first of the two matches between the Los Angeles Kings and the Anaheim Mighty Ducks in London, England there is an alternative.
Currently I'm enjoying the NHL Game Radio broadcast which you can find here if you are desperate for some hockey... which if you are if you happen to be reading this. The Los Angeles Kings hold a 1 goal lead over the Ducks after the first on a score by Mike Cammalleri (set up by Visnovsky, and my fantasy golden boy Frolov).
Quick Shave:
The New York Rangers and New York Islanders met up last night in a much calmer version than their previous encounter less than a week ago. Rangers forward Brendan Shanahan scored two goals in the 5-2 win over the Isles. Rookie Nigel Dawes helped setup both of Shanny's scores and added another assist. The youngster is trying to crack the Rangers lineup this season, and it looks like Coach Renney is giving him every opportunity to do so.
I just added a new t-shirt to the Playoff Beard store last night, and while it does have a baseball theme, I think it something that everyone will enjoy!
I personally believe that U.S. Americans want to know if players such as Scott Niedermayer, and Teemu Selanne will retire with maps of South Africa and the children of Iraq for their future….such as.....
The funniest thing is, that she is probably a Hurricanes fan. HA HA.
To the business at hand. Niedermayer and Selanne still have yet to make their final decisions on whether or not to embrace retirement, or continue playing in the NHL, and for Selanne whether or not that playing will be done with the Anaheim Ducks.
GM Brian Burke’s hands are somewhat tied here, and he must be getting anxious. I’m sure he’d love to have both back in the fold, but the salary cap makes the situation a little more difficult. If Scott Niedermayer decides not to retire, it will leave little room to re-sign Selanne (if he also decides to continue playing). If Niedermayer does retire, then Selanne should be able to be re-signed…. Again if chooses to play.
If Niedermayer does return, the Ducks blue line, will be nearly impenetrable, having signed UFA defenseman Matthieu Schnieder during the off season in preparation for Niedermayer’s possible departure.
However if both players do decide to retire the Ducks will have their work cut out for them trying to replace Niedermayer’s 69 points and Selanne’s 94 points accumulated last season.
Quick Shave:
Rumors are abound that the Columbus Blue Jackets have been in contact with Eric Lindros and would be interested in his services should he decide to continue his NHL career. Is Bosh a genius or what?
Still plenty of spots available in the Playoffbeard.com Fantasy League guys! Please join us for another fun season!
The Dragons
This has been a fun summer for the Bosher, and while I took a bit of a hiatus from daily grind of the Playoff Beard, I continued to play, and actually improve at the great game of hockey. Captain Bosh is now riding a 3 game point scoring streak and has collected 4 goals and 1 assist during that span, and helping (a little, if at all) the Dragons to their second Championship series in 3 seasons. The Dragons begin their quest for the Cup tonight in game 1 of a 3 game series.
Declining to match a five year $21.5 million offer sheet for Dustin Penner, the Anaheim Ducks have bid farewell to their young winger. Penner is now the property of the Edmonton Oilers. The Ducks will receive compensation from the Oilers in their first, second, and third round draft picks.
Penner, in his first full NHL season with the Ducks last year scored 29 goals and 16 assists in 82 games. He also added 8 points in the Anaheim's 21 playoff games as they marched to their franchise's first Stanley Cup Championship.
I believe this is the first offer sheet tendered to not be matched (please correct me if I'm wrong). In the past the New York Rangers attempted to pry Joe Sakic from the Colorado Avalanche, and the Carolina Hurricanes signed then Detroit Red Wings forward Sergei Fedorov to an offer sheet, yet both were matched, by their respective clubs. More recently, during the post salary cap era, the Flyers former GM Bob Clarke signed Vancouver Canucks forward Ryan Kesler to a one year offer sheet that was reluctantly matched, and this season Lowe and the Oilers made two attempts. The first to Buffalo Sabres forward Thomas Vanek, that was quickly matched, and one month later his successful bid for the services of Ducks forward Dustin Penner.
Was Penner worth the massive contract? Right now I'd say no, but the youngster does have plenty of potential. It's more than likely Lowe saw something other than the cap loophole in Penner and he will blossom in a larger role in Edmonton. The gamble was not just financial, as Lowe may have burned several bridges with his off season tactics, and may find it difficult securing future trading partners. Time will tell, but the old guard had better learn that this is the new NHL, and all bets appear to be off. Good Luck with the Oil DP!
Are the Anaheim Ducks preparing for a post Neidermayer / Selanne era? Certainly seems that way. If they do come back, the Ducks are set, and if they don’t, well the Ducks are sitting pretty good right now as well. In any case, Brian Burke is the greatest general manager in the universe! Well, he’s pretty good anyway.
The Anaheim Ducks, a day after securing blueline mainstay Matthieu Schneider to a two year deal (in case Niedermayer retires), signed free agent forward Todd Bertuzzi to a two year deal worth $8 million. It is my assumption that this move while a gamble (to see if Bertuzzi can regain his 2003 form where he scored 97 points) might be an insurance policy in case they also lose forward Teemu Selanne to retirement.
It’s hard to argue with any move the GM Brian Burke makes, since he just guided his club to it’s first ever Stanley Cup Championship. Whatever he does, and whomever he signs, there is most certainly a very good reason for it.
Quick Shave:
The Washington Capitals have finally found their setup man for the superstar winger Alexander Ovechkin. For the next 4 years (Caps gave Nylander a 4 year contract worth $19.5 million, for his second tour of duty with Washington) former New York Rangers center Michael Nylander will be serving up assists to the young sniper. I think this tandem will be a lot of fun to watch. Nylander always had a pass first mentality (which drove us Ranger fans insane at times) but should be perfectly suited to Ovechkin’s shoot first style. The Montreal Canadiens have signed defenceman Roman Hamrlik to a four year deal worth $22 million. This would have to mean that Sheldon Souray will not be returning to the Habs. I’m actually pretty surprised he hasn’t been snatched up yet. The Habs also landed forward Bryan Smolinski. The Los Angeles Kings made a bit of a splash signing a collection of UFA’s yesterday. Center Michal Handzuz, defenceman Tom Preissing, left wingers Kyle Calder, and Ladislav Nagy will be playing out West for the Kings next season. The Atlanta Thrashers added to their blue line by signing free agent defenceman Ken Klee, and the Chicago Blackhawks signed former Red Wings forward Robert Lang to a two year deal. The Calgary Flames are close to locking up defenceman Robyn Regehr to a 5 year contract extension. Apparently Ryan Smyth’s choice of the Avs over the Isles was due in large part to a phone call he received from Colorado Avalanche Captain Joe Sakic. Here’s a transcript of the phone call:
Sakic: “Ryan?”
Smyth: “Yes?”
Sakic: “Hey it’s Joe.”
Smyth: “Hey Joe! What’s up!”
Sakic: “I’ll tell you what’s up. I got some video of you shaving Raffi Torres’ playoff beard last year, and if you don’t sign with our club, it will be all over You Tube by Monday evening.”
Smyth: “Uh, Joe, I’m at a loss for words here…”
Sakic: “Don’t let the Lady Byng Trophy’s fool you punk. Do the right thing Smyth.”
And there you have it. Very convincing. Smyth apparently received an offer he couldn’t refuse. The Calgary Flames also signed forward Owen Nolan to a one year deal.
Set to be one of the premiere goaltenders on the UFA market this summer, Anaheim Ducks goaltender Jean-Sebastien Giguere opted not to test the free agent waters and sign a lucrative long term contract with his current club.
The Ducks and Giguere agreed to a four year deal worth $24 million. The contract will pay Giguere $5.5 million for years one and two, $6 million for the third, and $7 million for the final year of the deal. Giguere probably would have commanded $7 million per season on the open market but was obviously very happy with his current situation, especially after winning the Stanley Cup. As the backbone, and an integral part of the Anaheim Ducks Championship season, they are certainly setup well to defend their title.
Quick Shave:
The Florida Panthers re-signed their blossoming superstar forward Nathan Horton to a six year deal worth $24 million. Horton enjoyed a breakout season (as did the Panthers) scoring 62 points (31 goals, 31 assists) and was a +15 in 82 games. Keep an eye on him for your fantasy teams this year. With the NHL Entry Draft little more than 24 hours away, there are lots of rumors flying around. The Chicago Blackhawks are looking to deal defenceman Adrian Aucoin to the Calgary Flames, a trade that Aucoin has apparently blessed with the waiving of his no-trade clause, the Minnesota Wild's goaltender Manny Fernandez could be on the move today or tomorrow as well.... with Boston and Phoenix apparently very interested, and even though Lightning GM Jay Feaster denies it, there are plenty of trade rumors swirling around Tampa Bay Lightning forward Brad Richards. Keep an eye out at Spector's Hockey for the latest. The man is good.
Your 2006-2007 Stanley Cup Champions, the Anaheim Ducks!
The Anaheim Ducks closed the doors on the Ottawa Senators, and the 2006-2007 NHL season last night by capping off the campaign as this year's Stanley Cup Champions. Anaheim becomes the first team from California to ever win the NHL's most coveted trophy.
As I stated before the series began, the Ducks were instantly annointed as the Cup favorites moments after they acquired defenceman Chris Pronger from the Edmonton Oilers. This team lived up to it's billing, big time.
The start of game 5 looked as though Ottawa had already lost and were gonna mail it in. Down 2-0 on goals by Rob Niedermayer and Andy McDonald the Senators looked all but finished. Daniel Alfredsson redeemed himself from his antics in Game 4 by cutting the lead to one goal, and gave the Senators new life, however a fluke goal by Ottawa defenceman Chris Phillips seemed to take the wind out their team (Phillips and Emery tried to clear the puck from behind the net, and Phillips lost the puck in Emery's skates who directed into the net as he skated back into position). Alfredsson got his team back in the game with a short handed opportunity late in the second, but Anaheim defenceman Francois Beauchemin quickly countered his scored with a power play goal less than a minute later. It was all Ducks after that. Two unanswered goals by Travis Moen (his second of the game), and Corey Perry and a Jean Sebastien Giguere stop on a penalty shot sealed the 6-2 victory, and the Stanley Cup Championship for the Anaheim Ducks 4 games to 1.
The Conn Smythe Tropy for most valuable player of the playoffs was awarded to Anaheim Ducks defenceman and captain Scott Niedermayer. A case really could have been made for a number of players to win the award including goaltender Jean Sebastien Giguere, and forwards Andy McDonald, and Ryan Getzlaf, but it's hard to argue with the choice. Niedermayer has now been the backbone of four Stanley Cup Championship teams. If the Conn Smythe could be awarded to a line, I would have picked the Rob Niedermayer, Travis Moen, Samuel Pahlsson line. This group not only shut down the league's best players enroute to the Cup but also provided a substantial amount of offensive production. They made the Senators top line of Alfredsson, Spezza (Spezza and Coach Murray had a bit of blow up during the second on the bench after his inability to put the puck on net.... I wonder if his future is now in question in Ottawa) and Heatley look ordinary throughout the series.
Teemu Selanne finally hoisted the Stanley Cup after 14 NHL seasons, and his emotions before and after the game may be a prelude to the future Hall of Famer's retirement. I only hope the thrill of winning the Cup will inspire him to return to play again as his production over the past two seasons has returned to super star levels.
Congratulations to the Anaheim Ducks on an amazing season and winning the Stanley Cup!
Feel free to shave now gentleman. Buy Gilette stock this morning as it is sure to spike today!
Quick Shave: After finally getting rid of Mike Milbury, the New York Islanders announced that they will be excising their remaining cancer by buying out the remainder of forward Alexei Yashin's contract. Yashin had 4 years left on his ridiculous 10 year contract. The Islanders will owe Yashin $17.63 million as part of the CBA two-thirds buy out option rather than the $26.45 million if he stayed on the roster. The Islanders will receive a cap hit of $2.2 million a year for the next 8 seasons (it may be 4, but the wording on this is a bit confusing). Regardless, the Islanders can look forward to the future as they will attempt to retain Ryan Smyth who they got from Edmonton at the trade deadline in February, and forward Jason Blake, both of who are eligible for unrestricted free agency July 1st.
Well that's the season folks, but there is still more to come. Stay tuned for the announcement of the winner of the Chuck Norris Trophy this week, as well as the NHL awards, the NHL Entry Draft, and free agency in July. The action never stops at Playoff Beard.com.
I'd like to extend a thanks to everyone who has helped make this site so much fun, especially Stache, Jeff, Paul, and Jeff. Thanks for all of your support!
The Anaheim Ducks took a commanding lead in the series against the Ottawa Senators 3-1 last night with their 3-2 win. Ducks forward Andy McDonald scored two quick goals in a minutes time during the second to tie the match, and assisted on Dustin Penner's game winner in the third period. The Ducks will have an opportunity to wrap up the series and claim the Stanley Cup in game 5 Wednesday night in Anaheim.
What was Daniel Alfredsson thinking last night? With less than 5 seconds to play in the second period last night, the Ottawa Senators captain carried the puck past center ice, turned his body and directed a slapshot at Anahiem Duck's defenceman Scott Niedermayer. Ducks forward Samuel Pahlson, and Ottawa's Mike Fisher recieved matching penalties in a scrum that followed the shot. What will the NHL do in response to Alfredsson's stupidity? It's hard to imagine him not being suspended considering how they came down on Pronger, and Alfredsson's blatant attempt to injure Niedermayer.
The NHL delivered it's decision much quicker this round and served Anaheim Ducks defenceman Chris Pronger with a one game suspension for his hit on Dean McAmmond. Pronger elbowed McAmmond in the head during the third period of last night's game 3 that sent the Ottawa forward buckling to the ice and sliding lifelessly into the corner.
No surprise here, other than the fact that Pronger only recieved one game. He's lucky Campbell wasn't harsher with the suspension considering it's his second infraction of the playoffs.
Awesome game! Probably one of the best I've seen all playoffs this year, but at the same time, can anyone remember a game loaded with so many bizarre moments?
This match was loaded with unusual moments that included Jason Spezza parading around in Patrick Eaves jersey late in the first after his was torn (at one point I was thinking that Patrick Eaves could be Spezza's twin... although it's hard to say what number beer I was on at that point), Mike Fisher's goal from the point off a face off that saw only four Anaheim Duck players on the ice (Getzlaf jumped on late but was unable to help, and I doubt a fifth player would have changed the outcome of that play), Daniel Alfredsson's goal that was redirected off his skate (from my point of view I was convinced he didn't kick it, and it was a goal, however all I was certain it would be called off), the late third period scrum which saw both Ottawa's and Anaheim's second lines take a hiatus in the sin bin (pretty sure it was the Sens second line... how cool was Fisher? He could have brained Getzlaf if he wanted too... class is what he's about), and Pronger's elbow to McAmmond's head that went uncalled (however I won't be surprised if Pronger see's a suspension headed his way.... and I wonder if he might get more than one game considering he was already warned with a suspension during the series with Detroit?)
On top of all that, this game was loaded with great hockey. The Senators finally found a way to break through the Ducks defence, and more importantly goaltender Jean Sebastien Giguere. I loved the way both teams battled back. Just when you thought the momentum was about to shift, the other team would score. They should package this game, put a bow on it, and deliver it to everyone who doesnt' think hockey is an exciting sport.
The Senators ended up taking control late in the third on a goal by Dean McAmmond, and got some padding from a score by Anton Volchenkov midway through the third period to help Ottawa to a 5-3 win over the Ducks. The Senators cut the Ducks lead in the series to 2-1. For Ottawa, it was a promising game. They got scoring from all of their lines, including their big gun line (even though they were still held in check), and peppered the Giguere with 29 shots. Anaheim still played a great game and unfortunately had a few bad breaks on the Alfredsson score (from their point of view, they probably think they got hosed on the Aflredsson goal, but I still say it was a valid goal), and Dean McAmmond's game winner that bounced off of Pronger into the net. Now they will have to wait and see how the league rules on Pronger's hit. News of that will be sure to hit very soon.
Come on Ottawa! Time to light the fire, bring your 'A'game, lock on and get tone (thanks to Billy C for that one!), give it 150%, play 60 minutes, etc., etc.
Game 3 tonight in Ottawa is going to be huge. The Senators have got to find a way to break through the Anaheim Ducks stifling defense which has shut them down for the better part of 5 periods now (4 and change perhaps?). I wonder if Coach Murray will break up his top line of Heatley, Spezza and Alfredsson who seem unable to dump the puck deep and chase even though they have repeatedly preached that philosophy prior to both games 1 and 2. Their line has always been one of possesion and transporting the puck, but they have been stopped at the blue line and forced to the perimeter by the Ducks defence, and the solid back-checking of their forwards. Game 2 saw Ottawa limited to only 16 shots, which is not going to be enough to win this series. The Senators powerplay which was solid in Game 1, was blanked in Game 2 on four opportunities.
The Ducks just have to continue to do what they are doing, and if they continue to play at the same consistently high level a sweep is not out of the realm of possibilities. Game 3 kicks off tonight at 8:00 on NBC.... hopefully for the entire match.
Enjoy the game!
The Dragons:
At the start of the season the Dragons had a full roster, but as the campaign rolled on the injury bug has hit the team hard. Wrist injuries, concussions and alcoholism have take their toll, but the Dragons continue to battle through adversity. After last week’s amazing win with no bench, the Dragons continued to persevere with the luxury of only 1 substitute last night. Captain Mark Giordano (not to be confused with the Calgary Flames defenceman) scored two early goals (in the first minute which certainly set a league record, and Mike McCarthy’s natural hat trick was enough to complete the 5-4 win. Jose ‘Tight Slacks’ Alicea was dominant in net once again preventing the Indians from gaining any sort of advantage and Mike Reilly forgot that we played in a no-checking league, twice doing his best Scott Steven’s impression by standing up the rushing forwards on the blue line. Bill Ecklyn, as usual was a brute on defense battling for loose pucks and winning the battles even in several 3 on 1 situations. The Bosher was also solid, missing two empty net opportunities and drinking at least three quarters of a bottle of water. Great game boys!
The Anaheim Ducks shutdown line did it's job for the second straight game against the Senators and then some last night.
Led by Samuel Pahlsson, the Ducks checking line prevented the Senators top line of Dany Heatley, Daniel Alfredsson and Jason Spezza from producing much of anything (only 6 shots in the match) for yet another game. Pahlsson grabbed the puck from Dany Heatley late in the third and put a shot past Sens keeper Ray Emery. The goal stood up as the game winner and gave the Anaheim Ducks the 1-0 win and now carry a 2-0 series lead to Ottawa.
Ducks goaltender J.S. Giguere only had to make 16 saves to record the shutout victory. The lack of chances is not so much a reflection of Ottawa's offence but rather a blaring indication of just how good the Ducks are defensively. They are making the Senators look very ordinary right now.
Quick Shave:
The Pittsburgh Penguins will announce sometime today the naming of their franchise's newest captain, Sidney Crosby. This is hardly a surprise. Crosby's maturation as both a player and a person over the past two seasons has been difficult to miss, and this kid will undoubtedly lead the Penguins to the promised land.... and a playoff beard. Congrats Cros-beard!
Game 1 certainly delivered! That is a massive understatement.
I'm not sure if the Ottawa Senators have ever faced such relentless pressure as they did last night. While the Sens looked great on the powerplay, and led 2-1 going into the third period on goals by Fisher, and Redden, I really thought the Anaheim Ducks carried the play. Had it not been for their lack of discipline early in the game I wonder if the Ducks would have trailed at all during Game 1. The Ducks gave up 6 powerplay opportunities to the Sens including a 5-3 advantage... and Ottawa cashed in on two of them.
The Anaheim Ducks really pressed the attack throughout the game, especially late. Senators goaltender faced 33 shots in the match, and was finally beaten for the tying goal by Ryan Getzlaf early in the third, and Travis Moen smacked home the game winner off a Rob Niedermayer pass from behind the net with less than three to play. The Ducks completed the win 3-2 to take Game 1 in the series.
The Ducks recieved a solid effort from their fourth line unit led by Brad May, who actually had several scoring chances (and a lovely playoff beard). The Senators looked somewhat ineffective at even-strength, and the Heatley, Alfredsson, Spezza line was kept quiet for the most part (Spezza and Alfredsson assisted on Redden's powerplay score). Anaheim Ducks forward Drew Miller played in his second ever playoff game, and first ever Stanley Cup Final game. His brother Ryan Miller, Buffalo Sabres goaltender was in attendance to lend support. Miller actually helped setup the first Ducks goal by McDonald.
Quick Shave:
The Montreal Canadiens re-signed defenceman Andrei Markov to a four year contract worth $23 million. Markov was one of the Habs big two defencemen headed to unrestricted free agency this summer, the other being Sheldon Souray. It will be interesting to see if the Habs manage to retain Souray as well, or if they are forced to let him test free agency. The Phoenix Coyotes have hired Don Maloney as their new General Manager. Maloney was the assistant GM of the New York Rangers, and his move could perhaps leave the door open for Mark Messier who indicated his interest in taking over the helm in New York after Sather retires...... time will tell.
I was at a party yesterday, and a friend of mine threw me a question…. “Hey Boshy, who do you like in the finals?”
I began to speak, but unfortunately no words found their way out. How the heck can you pick between these two teams, who appear evenly matched on both sides of the puck, and leave little in the way of a frame of reference, since neither team faced each other this regular season, and haven’t met in over a year and a half?
The Anaheim Ducks have been on everyone’s radar since the big trade on Draft day last summer that saw the Edmonton Oilers send their big defenceman Chris Pronger to the Ducks for Lupul and a handful of prospects and picks. Instantaneously, the Ducks were anointed as the team to beat, and they have really not disappointed. Their goaltending is solid, their defence is probably their greatest asset, and they boast several lines that can score.
The Ottawa Senators were definitely not on the favorite’s list at the beginning of the season, after losing their big defenceman Zdeno Chara to free agency, they came out of the gate uninspired, but late fall, went on a tear that catapulted them up through the standings, and right through their first three opponents in the playoffs. They are lead by the strongest first line in the post season, made up of Heatley, Alfredsson, and Spezza, a stingy defence that allows little, and actively produces offence, and a once backup goaltender who has risen to the challenge to backstop his team to a 12-3 playoff record.
So who does the Bosher like? I like the Senators. I like the Ducks. I think both teams matchup well in almost every category.
Goaltending, I have to go with Ray Emery. The kid has been outstanding. Granted J.S. Giguere is experienced and has a Conn Smythe (that still belongs to Broduer), but Emery has provided confidence that the Senators have never had in the playoffs before. The kid has three playoff shutouts so far as well.
Defence. This is Anaheim. Any team that has Scott Niedermayer, and Chris Pronger on the blueline, wins the category any day of the week, and twice on Sunday. Don’t overlook Ottawa’s defence. They have stifled the high flying Buffalo Sabres, stopped young Sidney Crosby and crew, and even quieted a New Jersey Devils offence that bloomed in the playoffs.
Offence. Gotta give the edge to Ottawa on this one. Their big guns, are producing at super star levels…. Something they haven’t done in the past. Anaheim has the firepower to match, but thus far in the post season, they haven’t. If the Ducks Andy MacDonald can find his game look out.
Playoff Beard. This is all Anaheim. The Niedermayer family wins this category for the whole city. I swear they have Yeti in them.
Playoff beard prediction: Ottawa Senators in 7 games.
Game of the Night:
Ottawa at Anaheim 8:00 PM
Regulation will be on Versus, but if the game goes to overtime it will shift to NBC. Second overtime will shift back to Versus, and any overtime thereafter will be available as an audio broadcast on NHL.com.
So we are down to two after the Anaheim Ducks defeated the Detroit Red Wings 4-3 (Wings made it very interesting in the final period) to take the Western Conference Championship in 6 games and move on to face the Ottawa Senators in the Stanley Cup Finals.
The Ducks were predicted to be in the finals by just about everyone (including myself.... however I said they would be facing the Rangers), so really it's no surprise to see them there. The Senators started off the season poorly, and finished strongly.... they started playing much better late fall.... and in the playoffs have been just a shot glass shy of perfect.
The Stanley Cup Finals don't begin until Monday, May 28th, at 8:00 PM, and I plan on taking all that time to drink.... I mean think.... about what team will be our next Stanley Cup Champion. Frankly, I haven't got a clue (other than the brand of beer I will be consuming) as to who will win. What I do know is that this matchup looks outstanding.
I feel bad for Andreas Lilja today. The Detroit Red Wing defenceman scored the lone goal for his team that nearly stood up as the game winner (until some late power play heroics by Ducks defenceman Scott Niedermayer), and coughed up the puck in front of Dominik Hasek leading to Teemu Selanne's.... overtime heroics.
To recap quickly, Scott Niedermayer tied the game with less than a minute to play on a powerplay opportunity where the Ducks had pulled Jean Sebastien Giguere (who was outstanding in net for his team last night, shutting down a very strong effort by Detroit) in favor of another skater. The Anaheim Ducks and Detroit Red Wings headed to overtime tied 1-1, and midway throught the extra period, Lilja made his error. Dogged by Teemu Selanne he came out from behind the net, and was forechecked by Andy MacDonald. The puck came loose, and was collected by Selanne, and backhanded high past Hasek. The play was over in seconds, but watching it seemed to last forever. I think there was actually a collective gasp at the Joe last night. Unreal, but fantastic game.
The Red Wings were dominant, unfortunately for them, so was Giguere, who stopped 36 of the 37 shots he faced. The Ducks took the 2-1 victory, and can close the series out in Game 6 back in Anaheim on Tuesday night.
Before I get into the game.... how about Teemu Selanne's playoff beard? That is how you groom some facial hair Alfredsson! Well done Teemu, well done indeed sir.
The Anaheim Ducks responded big time last night, after the 5-0 can of butt kick the Red Wings opened up on them in game 3. The Ducks battled without their best defenceman (perhaps second best? who would you rather have... Pronger or Niedermayer?.... I'm going Niedermayer... I digress) to defeat the Red Wings 5-3 and tie the series 2-2 as it heads back to Detroit for game 5.
Teemu Selanne and his magnificent playoff beard potted a goal and two assists, Corey Perry opened the scoring, and Ryan Getzlaf scored the game winner. The Red Wings were unable to capitalize on two, two man advantage powerplays and Dominik Hasek appeared ordinary in net allowing 4 goals on 22 shots.
Game 5 returns to Detroit on Sunday in a series where both teams have split. No home ice advantage so far in this one. The next win will be very important, but I wouldn't be surprised to see both of the teams go the distance.
Game of the Night:
No games tonight folks, it is a day of rest for the NHL. Saturday however, the battle will be back on in Buffalo.
Sorry for the long absence folks, but the Bosher has been on the road, and while I've been able to stay informed and watch some unreal hockey over the past few days, I have been unable to deliver my sermon unto you.
Let's talk about last night. The Red Wings hammered the Anaheim Ducks 5-0 in Game 3 to take a 2-1 series lead. Dominik Hasek was superb making 29 saves and recording his 14th career playoff shutout. The big hero of the evening for the Red Wings was heart and soul forward Tomas Holmstrom who scored two goals and set up Valtteri Filppula for the Red Wings 5th goal. Todd Bertuzzi and Johan Franzen also scored for Wings, in what can only be described as a rout.
The big news today following last night's game is the fate of Anaheim Duck's defenceman Chris Pronger. Pronger and forward Rob Niedermayer combined for a hit on Tomas Holmstrom into the boards that forced him from the game briefly to recieve stitches in his forehead. Niedermayer got a 5 minute boarding penalty and a game misconduct, but video reviews of the play show Pronger elbowing Holmstrom to the head. There will be a disciplinary hearing today to determine whether or not Chris Pronger will face a suspension.
Game of the Night:
Buffalo at Ottawa 7:00 PM
What the heck happened to the Buffalo Sabres? The Ottawa Senators that's what. Will the President's Trophy winning Sabres go down in a sweep? Or will they do some staving and force the series back to Buffalo for a Game 5. They are behind the 8-ball right now (another great phrase) and Ottawa is in a choice position to advance to the Stanley Cup Finals by closing it out tonight. Enjoy the game!
I still remember my boys from Detroit's response in August when the Red Wings signed Dominik Hasek. I think it went something like this:
NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!
Well after last night's 31 save performance, I think they are all saying...
YESSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSS!
Dominik Hasek is back and playing amazing hockey. Hasek saved all but one of the shots he faced last night including a few mind boggling stops late in the game (Dustin Penner is still in shock) to give the Red Wings the 2-1 win, and a 1-0 series lead over the Anaheim Ducks.
Anaheim outshot the Wings 32-19, but it didn't matter. I had a feeling that this series might come down to goaltending and last night's game was certainly a great indicator of that. These teams are very evenly matched so much so, that it is a push on both sides of the puck. Except in net. I have to give it to the Red Wings. J.S. Giguere is good, but Hasek has been here before, and he is doing it again.
Henrik Zetterberg scored early for the Wings on an off angle shot that was deflected past Giguere (I believe off of Beauchemin's skate) and took the 1-0 lead. Chris Kunitz tied the game for the Ducks in the third on a beautiful play setup by Scott Neidermayer and Ryan Getzlaf. Then late in the game on a powerplay, Nicklas Lidstrom used Tomas Holstrom's head to bank a shot past J.S. Giguere. How great has Holstrom been in front of the net? This poor guys lower back and thighs must look like burger by now.... but he is protected by a gorgeous playoff beard! The Beard is strong with this one.
The Red Wings gave up more shots than they normally do (which is probably because of the loss of Schneider) but Hasek stood tall. The Ducks may have to throw 60 shots on net in game 2 if they want to win. Game of the Night:
Ottawa at Buffalo 8:00 PM
Game 2! Buffalo will look to rebound from what was simply an outclassing by Ottawa in Game 1. This team has rebounded well from adversity in the playoffs thus far, so look for a strong effort tonight as they try to avoid going to Ottawa down 2-0. Enjoy the game!
And on his farm, Andy McDonald had three goals, and an assist, a 5-1 win, and a 1-0 series lead. Wow!
Vancouver Canucks goalie Roberto Luongo was torched for three goals on the first nine shots he faced in the first period. McDonald recorded two, Teemu Selanne added the other and an assist, and Chris Kunitz assisted on all three. Ryan Getzlaf scored to further cushion the Ducks lead in the last period, and Andy McDonald joined the NHL Playoff Hat Trick Club with his third tally late in the game.
Ducks goaltender Jean-Sebastien Giguere made 26 saves and opened the game by shutting down Canucks forward Markus Naslund who was sprung early on a breakaway. Vancouver's Jeff Cowan opened the scoring for the Canucks mid way through the first but it was all Ducks after that.
The Anaheim Ducks have a 1-0 series lead over the Canucks.
Quick Shave:
Across the country, earlier last night, the Battle for New York was on. A battle that was won convincingly by the Buffalo Sabres. The New York Rangers got into penalty trouble late in the first, and then continued their undisciplined play throughout the second when Sabres forward Thomas Vanek opened the scoring on a power play. Over the next 4 minutes, the Sabres scored twice more on a goal by Ales Kotalik, and Vanek's second. The Rangers got goals from Marcel Hossa, and Brendan Shanahan but it was too little too late as the Sabres went on to win 5-2 and take a 1-0 series lead. Throughout the stands in Buffalo I kept seeing signs that said "These guys are scary good".... I can hardly argue. The Sabres transition from defense to attack so quickly it is scary. Turnovers are rapidly turned into scoring opportunities, and eventually converted into goals. The Rangers have their work cut out for them, especially if they continue to give up power plays. They only allowed one power play goal to Buffalo, but that was 16 minutes of ice time that the Rangers top line of Jagr, Nylander and Hossa could have used. The Buffalo Sabres now have a 1-0 series lead over the Rangers.
Game of the Night:
Ottawa at New Jersey 7:00 PM
San Jose at Detroit 7:30 PM
Just a good night of hockey folks! Enjoy the games!
The Detroit Red Wings ripped off a 1-0 win in a tight contest against the Anaheim Ducks last night. Forward Pavel Datsyuk, had the only score on the night, and Red Wings goaltender Dominik Hasek made 25 saves for his 7th shut out of the season, and the 75th of his career.
The win launched the Red Wings into a three way tie with 103 points atop the NHL with the Nashville Predators, and the Buffalo Sabres. Pretty huge victory for the Red Wings who have been chasing the Predators for some time now, and have now reeled them in.
Interesting note. The Red Wings have once again clinched a playoff spot, for what is now the 16th straight season. The longest such playoff streak in North American professional sports. The New York Yankees have the second longest streak at 12. The Red Wings are about winning plain and simple.
Quick Shave:
Looks like Jack Johnson will be going to the big league this season afterall. Reports are that Michigan defenceman has agreed to a contract with the Los Angeles Kings and may join the team for Thursday night's game against the Vancouver Canucks. I know this is a bummer for you Michigan fans (Paul, Jeff....hug accordingly) but this should be a nice boost for the Kings just to get a glimpse of the future of their blue line. The Philadelphia Flyers are looking to lock up their newly acquired goaltender Martin Biron. Reports are that Biron will sign for 2 years for $6.8 million. Good move by the Flyers, who would have lost Biron to the free agent market had they not signed him, and he's helped the Flyers game since his arrival. The New Jersey Devils should welcome back captain Patrik Elias as they face the New York Islanders tonight. The Devils are tied with the Pittsburgh Penguins for the Atlantic Division lead. Gary Bettman made a statement about fighting yesterday, since it's been a hot topic in the NHL over the past week (really? I hadn't heard much about that?). Bettman stated that "Fighting is part of the game, so suck it up", then the commissioner moved to the press area and kicked the crap out of a dozen reporters. Go GB! Click here to view the melee and the report.
Game of the Night:
NY Rangers at Montreal 7:30 PM
New Jersey at NY Islanders 7:30 PM
Carolina at Toronto 7:30 PM
Calgary at Minnesota 8:00 PM
Yo Battle! The playoffs are here and now. All of these games should provide spectacular action and excitement! How much would you pay for all of these games? WAIT! Don't answer yet because there's more!
Vancouver at Colorado 9:00 PM
NOW HOW MUCH WOULD YOU PAY! Ok I'm losing it. You really can't go wrong as far as hockey tonight. Most of the games have playoff consequences. Enjoy!
The Anaheim Ducks have lost their linchpin on defense again. Defenceman Chris Pronger will be out for roughly two weeks with a broken toe. The injury occured on Sunday following a 'post-game' workout. So he slipped in the shower?
The Anaheim Ducks have a commanding 9 point lead on the Pacific Division, but their pursuit of the President's Trophy has just become more difficult. Trailing the Nashville Predators (94 points) by 3, and the Detroit Red Wings (93 points) by 2, the climb to the top will not be as attainable without their top two defenceman.
Fantasy Note:
While Pronger's injury will only keep him out two weeks, that is devestating to most Fantasy managers. For most of us this is the final week in the regular season, and the playoffs will commence on Monday. While the regular season winds down for the NHL, it is really one of the most important times for Fantasy Hockey. This is the time of the year when the teams and players who have excelled throughout the season, and garnered comfortable leads for their teams begin to rest more in preparation for the playoffs. Coaches will give their players and goalies especially the night off. It is good to try and balance your roster with players from clubs that are trying to get into the playoffs, they have a good chance of being your more productive players. Pick up anyone on the Avalanche right now. That team is humming.
Quick Shave:
Let's keep talking about the Colorado Avalanche. This team refuses to die. After last night's 3-2 win over the Buffalo Sabres, their fifth in a row, they have now pulled within 6 points of the 8th spot in the West. Vincent Lecavalier shrugged off Captain Bosh's curse last night to score 2 goals and help the Tampa Bay Lightning to a 3-1 win over the collapsing Edmonton Oilers (they are finished). The Lightning are now tied with the Atlanta Thrashers for first place in the Southeast Division.
Game of the Night:
NY Rangers at NY Islanders 7:30 PM
Toronto at Ottawa 7:30 PM
New Jersey at Pittsburgh 7:30 PM
Calgary at Nashville 8:00 PM
I don't really think any of these need much in the way of an explanation as to why you should watch them. Again, the NHL Center Ice Red Zone idea would be perfect for this evening, cuz I'm sure I will turn one game off too early and miss an amazing ending. Keep one finger on the remote, and the other on your beer. Enjoy the games!
Two games against the Anaheim Ducks, and San Jose forward Jonathan Cheechoo scored 4 goals. Unfortunately, San Jose dropped the first of the home and home with Anaheim 7-4 on Tuesday night despite Cheechoo's production. Last night the San Jose Sharks took the second meeting 3-2, thanks to a late power play goal by Milan Michalek.
Anaheim Ducks coach Randy Carlyle was quoted saying "He's been a thorn in our side..." (pulled from TSN.ca). He really has. The broadcasters were melting over Cheechoo last night and continued to ladel his stats on me all night. During Cheechoo's Rocket Richard winning season last year, he had 5 hat tricks. The first player to record that many hat tricks in a season in 10 years (the last being Mario Lemieux). To come full circle to Carlyle's quote.... three of Cheechoo's hat tricks last season were against the Anaheim Ducks (then Mighty).
Altough he only has 20 goals on the season, he appears to finding the form that carried him to the goal scoring lead last season. If the last two games are any indication, I would look for Jonathan Cheechoo to have an impressive second half of the season. Although now that I've said that, look for him to never score a goal again.
Quick Shave:
Henrik Zetterberg is the man. Nobody, not even Cujo can stop this kid. Zetterberg recorded the 100th goal of his career last night, (as well as the 99th), in a two goal evening that helped lift the Detroit Red Wings over the Phoenix Coyotes 4-2. Zetterberg's 100th was also the game winner, and the Red Wings have now recorded 5 straight victories. Patrick Lalime returned to action last night (remember the former displaced Ottawa keeper?) as a member of the Chicago Blackhawks, and you would have to say it was a successful debut. Lalime made 34 saves to blank the Vancouver Canucks 3-0, one of the hottest teams in the league. It was Lalime's 34th career win by shutout. Speaking of shutouts.....Rick DiPietro of the New York Islanders made 27 saves to shutdown, and shutout the Philadelphia Flyers 2-0. This is interesting..... according to rumors there are apparently several teams interested in acquiring defenceman Derian Hatcher from the Flyers. I can't imagine how he would improve a lineup or what the Flyers would recieve in exchange for him......I guess we'll see. Look for the Flyers to begin dumping salaries like the L.A. Kings have begun to do already. The Buffalo Sabres finally solved the Ottawa Senators, who have been one of the few teams able to consistentely defeat the Eastern Conference's top seed. The Sabres got a pair of goals from forward Thomas Vanek and went on to defeat the Sens 3-2.
Game of the Night:
Pittsburgh at Philadelphia 7:00 PM
Toronto at Nashville 8:00 PM
I know, it's kind of like staring at a car accident on the side of the road..... but everytime Crosby and the Pens head to Philadelphia, we get highlight reel goals. Tonight should be no different. The Toronto Maple Leafs have strung together a few wins so of course every one in Toronto is convinced they will be winning the Stanley Cup this season. In fairness they have played some great hockey of late, so lets see how they fare against an elite team in the Nashville Predators (the team everyone in Toronto expects them to face in the finals). Enjoy the games!
The almost full compliment of the Anaheim Duck's roster returned to action last night, much to the dismay of the Dallas Stars. Ducks goaltender Jean Sebastien Giguere returned from a groin injury that kept him out of the lineup for the last 11 games and made 30 saves to help lift his club to a 4-1 victory over the Dallas Stars. Defencemen Chris Pronger and Francois Beauchemin also returned to the lineup after missing a month of action. Forward Andy McDonald scored two goals on the night, and of course Teemu Selanne added a goal as well.
Ducks defenceman Scott Niedermayer sat out his first game of the season with a fractured foot.
Quick Shave:
I just wanted open by paying my respects to the great Gump Worsley who passed away this week. The Hall of Famer helped the Montreal Canadians raise the Stanley Cup four times. Best wishes to his entire family.
Stache pointed out a great highlight yesterday for me, and man was he right no. Sidney Crosby scored an amazing backhand goal in the 7-2 Pittsburgh Penguins drubbing of the Phoenix Coyotes on Saturday night. Stache also pointed out that the Coyotes seem to be the team in which players score ridiculous highlight reel goals. Remember Ovechkins behind the back over the shoulder goal from last season? To check out the goal click here. Thanks Stache! It's funny how Roberto Luongo's only desire was to play for a team that would provide him some more protection. I think Luongo is facing just as many shots with Canucks as he was when he was playing for the Florida Panthers. Last night, fortunately for the Vancouver Canucks, Luongo made 39 saves to lift his club to a 3-1 win over the San Jose Sharks. Jose Theodore actually had a decent night in net for the Colorado Avalanche, making 38 saves on the night. Unfortunately his teammates didn't. The Avalanche only put 12 shots of which the Detroit Red Wings Dominik Hasek saved all but one. The Wings went on to defeat the Avs 3-1. 12 shots? Come on guys! The Philadelphia Flyers defeated the Atlanta Thrashers 2-1 last night on a pair of goals by Jeff Carter. Flyers keeper Antero Nittymaki made 37 saves on the night. Flyers GM Paul Holgrem is expected to meet with Peter Forsberg today and discussing his future with the club. Wheter he will be traded at the February 26th deadline will most likely be determined in the meeting today.
Game of the Night:
Ottawa at Montreal 7:30 PM
All Canadian goodness! You really can't get better than this! One of two games on the card for the evening, the other being my blueshirts throwing down with the Boston Bruins. Enjoy the games!
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!
I am having perhaps the worst week in Fantasy Hockey ever. Actually the last three weeks have been dreadful, but this week my squad is just flatlining, and my management of said roster could not be worst. Last evening was another fraught with game time decisions, who to start, who to sit, who's hot, who's not, and so on. Well Captain Bosh, made all the wrong choices last night. Let's start with my biggest one.
Starting Ilya Bryzgalov. The Anaheim Ducks backup goaltender who was thrust into the starting role after number one keeper Jean Sebastien Giguere went down with a groin injury, has been dreadful. Granted the star rookie from last season's playoffs has had his confidence all but destroyed by the maniacal efforts of Coach Carlyle this season. Earlier in the year, if he allowed a goal, he was yanked. Then he went down with an injury, and now he is playing so tight......that he can't play at all. Brygalov also does not have the benefit of playing behind top defensemen Chris Pronger, or Francois Beauchemin (I probably just murdered his name again), as Giguere did, and the team's play as of late is more than an indication of that.
Ok, off the soap box, and onto the ice. The Ducks carried a 1 goal into the second, and appeared to be comfortably sitting on it, until the Oilers tied it late in the period on a goal by Jason Smith. The wheels were probably already off at this point, but Oilers forward Toby Peterson made sure they stayed off at this point by scoring again less than half a minute later. How many times during this losing stretch have we seen the Ducks totally collapse like this (remember Columbus 2 weeks ago?)? After that, and I know it sounds hokey, but the Oilers never looked back as forward Ryan Smyth scored his 22nd, and 23rd of the season, to give his team the 4-1 victory.
Quick Shave:
My other Fantasy Hockey decision last night was not to start Montreal Canadiens goaltender Cristobal Huet, against a very strong Atlanta Thrashers team. The Habs haven'tt looked great lately, and Huet has taken a beating in his last few games......so I thought there was good reasoning behind my choice. Montreal, and Huet however, decided to turn in one of their finest performances of the season. The Habs defeated the Thrashers 4-1, on a 44 save performance from Huet, and even got a goal from recently benched Sergei Samsonov. The Vancouver Canucks remained one of the hottest teams in the NHL, by edging the Ottawa Senators 2-1. The difference was Roberto Luongo who made 34 of 35 saves on the night. The Canucks only managed 14 shots on net?! And they still won! Near All Star defenceman Rory Fitzpatrick recorded his first goal of the season in the win. The Los Angeles Kings aquired goaltender Sean Burke on re-entry waivers from the Tampa Bay Lightning yesterday. This is a move of desperation obviously as their starting goalies are pretty much done for a large part, or the entire season, and the rookie call-ups have been described as NHL ready. Burke however has seen little action during his AHL stint, and may not be NHL ready either....but for $350,000 I guess he is worth the gamble. Tampa Bay went on to defeat the New Jersey Devils last night 3-2 in the shootout on a goal by Brad Richards. Richards also scored both goals during regulation, and while not technically a hat trick, I will give him the guy nod. Well done sir.
Game of the Night:
Vancouver at Buffalo 8:00 PM
If the Canucks can defeat the Senators by taking only 14 shots on net, I'd like to see them defeat the Sabres by taking less than 10. Make'm count boys! Enjoy the games!
There's a nice story behind this one, aside the fact that the Ducks pounded the Dallas Stars 5-1, Ilya Bryzgalov stopped 17 shots for the win, and my boy Andy McDonald had four assists on the evening.
Selanne's friend back home in Finland, who has terminal cancer, expressed a wish that when he scored his next hat trick Selanne save the puck for him. Teemu Selanne who hadn't registered a hat trick since he was a San Jose Shark back in March of 2001, recorded his 19th career 3 goal game against the Stars last night. Huge night for him, and perhaps a bigger one for his friend. We wish him the best.
Teemu Selanne is having an almost mirror image of last years season, scoring goals in bunches and remaining a constant threat on the offensive side of the puck. Selanne has 57 points (28 goals, 29 assists) and is an amazing +21 on the season.
Game of the Night:
Atlanta at New Jersey 7:30 PM
Battle for second in the East tonight. The Atlanta Thrashers are first in the Southeast, and the New Jersey Devils are first in the Atlantic. The Thrashers have a 2 point advantage on the Devils, and currently hold the second seed. Playoffs are already starting! Enjoy the games!
NY Islanders at NY Rangers 7:00 PM <
Our very own Playoff Beard of the Month Winner for December, Rick DiPietro, puts his perfect record on the line once again as he and the New York Islanders face off against the New York Rangers. The Isles have hit the skids recently dropping 5 in a row (it could be six, but who can count that high) but this season, always bring their best stuff when playing the Blueshirts. Alexei Yashin should be back at full steam after a very public benching by Coach Ted Nolan. For the Rangers, all eyes will be on Jaromir Jagr, who left during the second period of the game against Montreal on Saturday afternoon with a groin pull. Will he be back in the lineup? Will he be able to score (something he hasn't done in several matches)? Will the Rangers be able to beat the Islanders?
Anaheim at Nashville 8:00 PM
The Ducks are injured but they are still good. They ended their losing streak with a solid effort against the Detroit Red Wings and now look to test their mettle against the Nashville Predators. The Predators are without a doubt the most disrespected team in the NHL. They are a dominant force in the WEST, and no one talks about them. Right now they sit atop the Central, and are just 5 points behind Anaheim for the Western Conference lead. Beginning to see why this game is so big? The Predators have an opportunity to make a big push for the top seed and it begins tonight.
Phoenix at Dallas 8:30 PM
The Phoenix Coyotes could be for real after all. Six wins and counting as they visit the Dallas Stars who are fighting through the injury bug as well lately. A win by Phoenix tonight would bring them within 3 points of a playoff spot, and more importantly solidify my respect for them as a team.
Quick Shave:
Everyone should stop and take a look at the current standings in both the Eastern and Western Conferences. Notice anything? Aside from the Philadelphia Flyers, every team in the NHL has a shot to make the playoffs. It's that close. The Florida Panthers (currently 14th in the East with 39 points) are just 5 points behind the Toronto Maple Leafs who hold the 8th and final playoff spot in the East with 44. Between them are the Boston Bruins (43 points), the Pittsburgh Penguins (43 points), the Washington Capitals (43 points), and the Tampa Bay Lightning (41 points). And in the West....its anyone's game as far as I'm concerned. The St. Louis Blues (who hold the 15th spot in the West with 33 points), are 12 points behind the Minnesota Wild who sit in the 8th and final playoff spot with 45 points. Among them are the Colorado Avalanche (44 points), the Edmonton Oilers (44 points, thanks to the 2-1 OT win over the Kings last night), the Phoenix Coyotes (40 points), the Los Angeles Kings (38 points), and the Columbus Blue Jackets (36 points). So what does all of this mean to us? The playoffs will be starting just a little bit early this year.
The Ducks had a healthy 3 goal lead, and backup goaltender Ilya Bryzgalov was roughly 10 minutes away from a shutout victory......and then the wheels came off big time.
Columbus Blue Jackets Rostislav Klesla broke open the scoring midway through the final frame of the game, and then deposited another past Bryzgalov with less than 4 minutes to play. Fredrik Modin tied the score 3-3 less than a minute later, and Manny Malhotra scored the game winner a little over a minute after that! This had to be the most unreal game I've seen this season. The Ducks Teemu Selanne who was honored in a pre-game ceremony for scoring his 500th career goal, and playing his 1000th career game earlier this season was awarded a penalty shot because the Jackets Svitov covered the puck with his hand in the crease with 21 seconds left in the game. It seemed a storybook setup for Selanne, but he was stoned on the opportunity by Columbus goalie Fredrik Norrena. The Jackets stole this one from the Ducks (or the Ducks handed it to them, depending on your point of view) 4-3.
Anaheim has now lost 4 in a row, and the loss of Pronger and Giguere seem to be very apparent. J.S. Giguere has apparently begun skating is planning to return to the lineup next week, which means after tonight's performance, Ilya Bryzgalov will once again become Carlyle's whipping boy.
Quick Shave:
Just up North, the Vancouver Canucks were enjoying a collapse of their own. Petr Sykora tied the game 2-2 from a feed by Petr Nedved on the newly formed Edmonton Oiler's Czech line (Hemsky complete's the trio I believe), and forced overtime. The Canucks however recovered the game and the win on the overtime winner by Matt Cooke, who recorded his second of the game and lifted them to a 3-2 win. Petr Nedved who was plucked from waivers by the Oilers has 2 points in his 2 games with the club. The Pittsburgh Penguins were equal to the task (Doc Emmerick's favorite line) and skated to a 4-2 win over the East's best Buffalo Sabres. Pens goalie Marc Andre Fleury made 31 saves for the win. We made a lot of jokes earlier this season about the Phoenix Coyotes, but maybe we were all a little too early to judge. The Coyotes won their 5th game in a row with a huge come from behind victory over the Atlanta Thrashers 5-4 last night. The Yotes forced overtime and late free agent pickup Yanic Perreault picked up the game winner. Perreault has been huge for the Coyotes this season (and my fantasy team), one wonders if this may get some teams inquiring about Jason Allison who has been working out all season in the hopes of signing with a team. Calgary Flames Jarome Iginla will be out for at least a week after suffering a sprained knee in the loss to the Panthers Thursday night. The Nashville Predators continued Thursday's Goal-fest theme by lighting up the Chicago Blackhawks for 8 goals. Everyone on the Predators scored last night. Chris Mason made 35 saves for the Predators.....Boucher and Khabibulin didn't make any for the Blackhawks.
The Dragons
Huge win for the boys last night as they faced off against their rivals the Scraphawks. Like the Anaheim Ducks the Scraphawks carried a 3-0 lead into the third till Mike Feeney opened the scoring. Jerry Quirk and Mark Giordano tied the game 3-3 (Boshy assisted on Giordano's goal by the way) and forced the shootout. Dragons goaltender and slacks model Jose Alicea stopped all 9 shooters he faced (and battled through a groin pull....and not wearing his dress pants), and Mark Giordano potted the game winner. Nice work fellas!
Game of the Night:
Rangers at Montreal 3:00 PM
New Jersey at Ottawa 3:00 PM
Dallas at Calgary 10:00 PM
A beautiful day for afternoon, early evening and late night hockey. This time of year is great. I believe NBC's coverage begin's this weekend so we should start seeing some early Saturday games, hopefully in high definition (much like my abs....or ab rather). We kick it off with the tri-state teams heading north to do battle with Canada's best and end our buzz with Dallas heading to Calgary. Enjoy the games!
What a terrible way to start off the New Year for the Anaheim Ducks. Defenceman Chris Pronger blocked a Mark Parrish shot in the last night's losing effort during the first period and suffered a broken foot as a result.
Pronger wore a protective boot while leaving the arena last night and will have the injury examined by doctors in Anaheim early this week. The Ducks have been hit with injuries in recent weeks, having lost goaltenders Jean Sebastien Giguere, Ilya Bryzgalov and defenceman Francois Beauchemin. Their fast start has certainly afforded them a cushion to allow some players time to recover.
Game of the Night:
NY Islanders at Buffalo 4:00
Good test for the New York Islanders, and another chance for the Sabres to further assert their dominance over the league. Enjoy the games!
Our very own Playoff Beard of the Month winner for December, George Parros capped a dominant win over the Calgary Flames, by ending a shift with a little toe to toe action with Calgary defenceman Robin Regehr. Parros has to be one of the few enforcers I've ever seen actually go to the body when the head isn't available. Regehr will be soaking his ribs all day today.
The Ducks and Flames took a 1-1 tie into the third period in a physical matchup that eventually wore Calgary down. Then Anaheim opened the flood gates on goals from Pahlsson, Penner, and a sweet late empty netter by Corey Perry (you gotta see the replay on that one....should be on the hightlights this week), and goaltender J.S. Giguere finished off his 22nd win of the year by defeating the Flames 4-1. The Ducks stretched their lead in the Pacific Division and further cemented their foothold for first place in the Western Conference. Unless they totally collapse over the next two weeks, we will see Anaheim Coach Randy Carlyle behind the bench coaching the Western All-Stars.....and still not playing Ilya Bryzgalov.
The Anaheim broadcasters tossed out a great line during a scrum in the third between several Ducks, and Flames players..."It looks like an NBA game down there!"
Quick Shave:
The Columbus Blue Jackets continue to prove that they could be for real. Sergei Federov returned to Detroit to score two goals including the game winner. The Blue Jackets took a 3-0 lead in the first period over the Detroit Red Wings, and hung to win 4-3 on a 33 save performance by Fredrik Norrena....a good fantasy pickup in your leagues right now if he's available (I grabbed him in one of mine!). Speaking of Federov, apparently there has been rumors of the Montreal Canadiens trying to trade for him last week. Right now I don't see it happening with the way they are playing, but if they fall apart, this wouldn't shock me. He carries a hefty price tag, and might be worth unloading for the Blue Jackets if the right deal falls in their laps.
Game of the Night:
Montreal at Buffalo 7:00 PM
NY Islanders at NY Rangers 7:00 PM
Atlanta at New Jersey 7:30 PM
Couple of good games on tonight. The best has to be the Habs and Sabres. These two teams have provided some of the best hockey I've seen all season when they've met. The Islanders and Rangers should be a great game depending on which Ranger team shows up, and the Devils face their old forward Bobby Holik and his new team the Atlanta Thrashers tonight. Enjoy the games you Chewbacca lookalikes!
Oh...Alexander Frolov will pot 3 against Nashville tonight for the Kings.
The Ducks met the Sharks last night in what will surely be a playoff matchup this season. The Pacific Division rivals, currently sit first (Ducks) and second (Sharks), and both lead the Western Conference in points.
The Anaheim Ducks who carried a 7 game road winning streak into the Shark Tank last night.....saw it snapped. San Jose Sharks forward Jonathan Cheechoo scored late in the third to tie the score 3-3. With little more than 2 minutes in the game, Joe Thornton potted the game winner on a shot that deflected off of Ducks defenceman Scott Niedermayer. Sharks keeper Evgeni Nabokov made 32 saves on the evening to lift his club to a 4-3 win over the Ducks.
Quick Shave:
A couple of winning streaks ended last night....and ended hard. The New York Rangers saw their winning streak snapped big time as they were embarrassed by the Toronto Maple Leafs 9-2. Kyle Wellwood joined the HTC with his 3 goal, 5 point performance. Actually I think every Leaf may have joined the HTC last night. The Pittsburgh Penguins saw their win streak halted by the Montreal Canadiens as they lost 6-3. Habs captain Saku Koivu recorded his customary 2 goals. Calgary Flames forward Jarome Iginla almost made me look like a genius last night, as he was one goal shy of the HTC. Iginla had 4 points (2 goals, 2 assists) in a 6-3 romp of the Phoenix Coyotes last night. The New York Islanders goalie Rick Dipietro bounced back from a rought outting against the Pens the other night, to shutout the Atlanta Thrashers 6-0. The Detroit Red Wings won for the first time ever in New Jersey yesterday afternoon 2-1. The New Jersey Devils don't score goals anymore, so Hasek only needed to make 21 saves for the win. The Devils have now dropped three in a row. The Ottawa Senators looked like the team they should be last night defeating the Eastern Conference leading Buffalo Sabres for the third time this season 3-1. Jason Spezza scored two goals, and goalie Ray Emery stopped 35 Buffalo Shots for the win.
Game of the Night:
New Jersey at NY Rangers 7:00 PM
Embarrrassing losers from last night, face off against three game losers.....both teams will be up for this one, and it should be a nasty Garden party. Bondra will join the HTC tonight against the Colorado Avalanche. Enjoy the games!
Has anyone else noticed that the goaltenders have been putting on a clinic this week? The number of shutouts has been impressive, if not stunning. The new rules instituted a year ago were supposed to produce more offence, but these titans of the crease have had other plans this year. The NHL should considering nominating only goaltenders as the Stars of the Week. Below are a list of the possible candidates.
Just last night, the New Jersey DevilsMartin Brodeur shut down the Philadelphia Flyers, making 28 saves for the 2-0 victory. The shutout was Brodeur's fourth of the season, and the 84th of his career. The win, also tied him with Glen Hall for third place overall on the shutout list.
Edmonton Oilers goaltender Dwayne Roloson stopped all 22 shots the Dallas Stars fired at him last night, for the 2-0 shutout victory, and the second straight win by way of shutout this week. The shutout was the 21st of his career.
Dallas Stars keeper Marty Turco, also had a pair of shutouts this week. Turco made 25 saves against the San Jose Sharks on Monday night for to lift his team to the 1-0 win, then two nights later blanked the Phoenix Coyotes for the 3-0 shutout win.
The Anaheim Ducks goaltender Jean Sebastien Giguere stopped all 21 Nashville Predator shots he faced on Wednesday night to secure the 4-0 shutout victory for his team. The win was his fourth this season by way of shutout.
The Columbus Blue Jackets backup goalie (although maybe not for much longer), Fredrik Norrena made an amazing 42 saves against the Colorado Avalanche Tuesday night, and helped the Blue Jackets to a 3-0 shutout win. What's more amazing, is that he was coming off of a 21 save, 4-0 shutout performance against the Edmonton Oilers Saturday night.
The Calgary Flames man between the pipes Miikka Kiprusoff made 23 saves against the reigning Stanley Cup Champion Carolina Hurricanes for the 3-0 shutout win. Kiprusoff is tied with Broduer, Giguere, Lehtonen, and Hasek with 4 shutout wins.
Tampa Bay Lightning goaltender Marc Denis rebounded behind an offensive explosion that his teammates provided, by stopping all 21 shots the Atlanta Thrashers tossed at him, to seal the 8-0 shutout win. The victory had to be a moral one for Denis who has all but lost his job to backup Johan Holmqvist.
Game of the Night:
NY Rangers at Ottawa 3:00 PM
Buffalo at Montreal 7:00 PM
Vancouver at Calgary 10:00 PM
I give you an appetizer, the main course, and some desert. We get ourselves a great early game in the afternoon matchup between the Rangers and Sens, followed by the rematch of a week ago between the Habs and Sabres, where both goaltenders put on a show, but Huet proved to be the winner, and finally a matchup between a Vancouver team that looks like they discovered their offence last night, and a Calgary team that also shutdown the champs a few nights ago. Grab your brew Ha Has and the remote, it's Hockey Night in Canada! May the beard be with you!
Well two titans clashed last night.....and the Anaheim Ducks were the clear victor. The Ducks are fulfilling all of the pre-season prophecies that they would be the front runners in the 2006-2007 NHL season by continuously lining teams up, and repeatedly knocking them down. Their latest victim. The Nashville Predators.
The Nashville Predators after starting the season on a dreadful note, quickly turned things around and rocketed to the top of the Central Division. The Anaheim Ducks have been on top since the start and reminded the Predators of that last night. Ducks forward Teemu Selanne had another two goal evening (just missing the HTC), and rising stars Ryan Getzlaf (Getzlaf has scored 5 in his last 8 games) and Chris Kunitz (had a 4 point evening, assisting on the three goals he didn't score) added scores as well. Goaltender Jean Sebastien Giguere once again shut the doors stopping all 21 shots the Predators fired at him to secure the 4-0 win. Is there little doubt that this team won't be contending for th Cup this year?
Quick Shave:
Marty Turco hasn't allowed a goal in 2 games! The Dallas Stars goaltender made 25 saves for the second straight game, for his second straight shutout, this time against the offensive giant Phoenix Coyotes. The Stars won 3-0. The Washington Capitals have won four straight! No really. What's more impressive is the teams they have defeated on that run. Tampa Bay (ok, not that impressive), Dallas, Buffalo, and last night the Ottawa Senators 6-2. Here's the question. Are their opponents taking them too lightly, or is this a taste of things to come in Washington? Perhaps we are viewing a preview of the future of this franchise. The Edmonton Oilers got a small measure of revenge last night in the playoff rematch against the Carolina Hurricanes. Coach MacTavish even started the Oilers Jussi Markkanen who played 6 of the 7 games in the finals in relief of the injured Roloson, and it payed off. Markkanen made 28 saves to help lift his team to a 3-1 win over the reigning Stanley Cup Champs. It looked as though the New Jersey Devils weren't going to score again last night, and the Montreal Canadiens had the game in the bag. The Devils however waited till the waning minutes of the third to tie the game, and Patrik Elias waited till the final seconds of overtime to help the Devils to a 2-1 victory.
The great Joe Nieuwendyk officially announced his retirement yesterday. The Florida Panthers has been hampered by a back injury for the past few seasons, and this season it has finally taken its toll. Nieuwendyk has played 15 of the 29 games the Panthers have played this season recording 8 points. In his 20 seasons in the NHL Niewendyk has scored 1126 points (564 goals, and a whole bunch of assists), and won the Stanley Cup three times with Calgary, Dallas, and New Jersey. Congratulations on an amazing career Joe, you will be missed!
Game of the Night:
Montreal at NY Islanders 7:30 PM
Both teams will be looking to rebound from tough losses, and aside from their recent bumps in the road have been playing top notch hockey. TOP NOTCH TOP NOTCH! So, as always my sometimes mistaken for chewbacca looking friends.....enjoy the games!
Chris Pronger returns to Edmonton tonight. Do I really need to say more?
For those of you living under a rock for the past year or so, Pronger was traded to the Oilers from St. Louis prior to the start of last season, and immediately help stabilize the Oilers defense, and lift them to the playoffs. Once there, he and the Oilers, made an unlikely push round after round towards the Stanley Cup, where they fell short by one game. Losing in a game 7 final to the Carolina Hurricanes. Had the Oilers won, Pronger would have certainly been the Conn Smythe Trophy winner (although I still think Roloson deserved it regardless of his game 1 injury), but it was just not to be. Days after the playoff run ended, rumors swirled that Pronger had demanded a trade from the Edmonton Oilers. Regrettably, Oilers GM Kevin Lowe complied and sent him out west to Anaheim for a package of picks, forward Joffrey Lupul, and defenceman Ladislav Smid.
Pronger's reason for requesting the trade has alway been for family reasons, but that has done little to extinguish the rage the Oiler's fans feel towards him....that same rage that will certainly be on dislpay tonight at Rexxal Place. The best revenge for Oilers and their fans? Win the game.
Quick Shave:
The Chicago Blackhawks joined the 'Let's fire our Head Coach' Club yesterday as they sent head coach Trent Yawney packing in favor of Denis Savard. The legendary Blackhawks player is expected to bring a more offensive minded system to the team, and looks to have Havlat back in the lineup by next week. Injuries have been the downfall of this team, not coaching, so it's unfortunate Yawney had to pay the price for the growing IR list.
The Detroit Red Wings took advantage of the Dallas Stars power play units and scored two short handed goals by Draper and Schneider to defeat them 2-1. San Jose Sharks forward Milan Michalek has joined his teammate Jonathan Cheechoo on the IR list this week. Michalek suffered an arm injury during the game against the Anaheim Ducks last week. The New York Islanders got some bad news on the MRI results of Alexei Yashin's knee. Yashin has a knee sprain and will be out of the Isles lineup for 2-4 weeks. Check out this great Fantasy Article from TSN.ca. Some nice gems to consider in there. How good are Los Angeles Kings forwards Kopitar and Frolov! New Jersey Devils goalie Martin Brodeur found out last night in the shootout as both young players deked him right out of the net. LA won the game 3-2.
With Anaheim's backup netminder Ilya Bryzgalov day to day with a 'lower body injury', and Jean Sebastien Giguere sidelined with a similiarly vague ailment, the Ducks went to the farm for support and called up rookie goaltender Michael Wall.
Wall had a solid first NHL start, but really a rookie keeper couldn't have asked for more favorable conditions. Playing behind one of the best defensive teams in the league, and playing against one of the more limited offensive clubs. Wall only faced 11 shots through the first 40 minutes and finished off the Flames with 19 saves for his first career victory 5-3.
Teemu Selanne made a bid to join the NHL HTC but was denied membership because of the that third elusive goal. Ryan Getzlaf also scored on the powerplay, and if he is available in your Fantasy Leagues, you may want to take a look at him. Getzlaf now has 16 points on the season (9 goals, 7 assists) and is a +5 rating. 8 of his points are from special teams play. Worth the pickup if he is still available.
Quick Shave:
The New York Rangers got close again, but still can't beat the Buffalo Sabres. The Sabres once again finished off the Rangers in OT, this time on a Chris Drury deflection early in the extra period. Has Marc Denis lost his starting job in Tampa Bay? It looks like it. The Tampa Bay Lightning started 'backup' Johan Holmqvist against the Ottawa Senators yesterday and made 22 stops to help the Lightning win 3-1. The win was his 8th in his last 9 starts. Colorado Avalanche defenceman Jordan Leopold may be back in the lineup soon having recovered from his hernia surgery. Pierre Turgeon has also been practicing faceoffs which indicates his shoulder recovery is coming along nicely and could be back before the holidays. New York Islanders Alexei Yashin will have an MRI on his right knee today to see if there is any long term damage from the knee on knee hit he sustained against Washington Capitals Matt Bradley.
Game of the Night:
Dallas at Detroit 7:00 PM
Marty Turco is probably hoping that this week doesn't start off like last week, when he allowed two goals in on five shots and was yanked.....thus destroying all of his Fantasy Owner's goaltending stats (including the dude I played last week!). Big opportunity for MT to bounce back against the Wings. Enjoy the games!
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!
In what had to be the premiere showdown in the NHL last night, the two top teams in the Western Conference faced off in an epic contest. Well, for one period anyway.
The San Jose Sharks visited the Honda Center to meet their division rivals the Anaheim Ducks for the first time this season, and played to a draw in the first period. That was the last period the Sharks looked like an equal to their counterparts, who began to take them apart in the second. Duck's defenceman Chris Pronger and forward Ryan Getzlaf opened the scoring, and Anaheim never looked backed. San Jose Sharks goaltender Evgeni Nabokov recieved no offensive support and little defensive help as he was lit up for 5 goals on 44 shots. Duck's goalie Jean Sebastien Giguere saved all 23 shots he faced and recorded his third shutout of the season, to help his team to the 5-0 rout.
Anaheim's Teemu Selanne scored his 498th, and 499th goals of his career. I know, I know, just one shy of joining the NHL Hat Trick Club.....and the not as esteemed 500 Goal Club (which Mats Sundin joined earlier this season, while silmutaneously joining the NHL HTC). Teemu will have ample opportunity to pot his 500th tomorrow night against the Colorado Avalanche, and if Jose Theodore is in net, most certainly the HTC.....several Ducks players may join the HTC tomorrow night.
Quick Shave:
Bad news for the Nashville Predators, as they lose their hulking center Jason Arnott for almost 6 weeks. Arnott was injured in Columbus on Monday night, and will have to have his knee scoped. I think it's safe to say Jaromir Jagr's shoulder is 100%. The New York Ranger's captain scored 2 goals and goalie Henrik Lundqvist stopped 34 shots to shutout the defending Stanley Cup Champion Carolina Hurricanes 4-0. Ranger's forward Jed Ortmeyer has been cleared to resume practicing (non contact) with the club after being out all season with a pulmonary embolism. Good news for the young player who brought tons of energy to the Rangers last season. Petr Sykora scored 2 goals for the Edmonton Oilers to lift them over the Calgary Flames 2-1. Sykora is having a solid season for the Oil this year, scoring 20 points (9 goals, 11 assists). The Toronto Maple Leafs may get their captain, Mats Sundin back as early as this Saturday as they face off against the Boston Bruins. Sundin has be recovering from a tear in an elbow ligament.
Game of the Night:
Toronto at Buffalo 7:00 PM
Vancouver at Detroit 7:30 PM
Nashville at Dallas 8:30 PM
There are so many good games to be thankful for leading up to this Thanksgiving Day, that I decided to present you with a horn of plenty.....plenty of great games that is. Last time the Leafs and Sabres faced off, the Sabres left with their first regulation loss, and were handily defeated. Perhaps a bit of grudge match? Vancouver and Detroit just looks like it could be fun. Luongo has yet to really be the difference maker the Canucks had hoped he be this season. Beating Detroit would make a good case for him. Even without Arnott, Nashville is a formidable team, and they have called up their wonder baby Alexander Radulov to cover for him. They face off against a Dallas team that had a great come from behind win against the Avs on Monday, and also lost a key player in their captain Brendan Morrow......to what you ask. GROIN GROIN GROIN! Big surprise. Enjoy the games, and hopefully many cold ones my friends!
I'd like to start by sending my thanks to Coach Carlyle for yanking Ilya Bryzgalov after letting in 2 goals, and replacing him with Giguere to start the second period. Not only did you destroy every Fantasy Hockey team's goaltending stats with your lack of patience last night, but your plan to erradicate every shred of confidence in the keeper who carried your team to the Western Conference Finals last season is almost complete. That being said, I'm glad you lost last night.
Congratulations to the Calgary Flames and to the reigning Vezina Trophy Winner Miikka Kiprusoff for making 37 saves and helping defeat the Anaheim Ducks 3-0 for the shutout win. The loss was the first (of many to come for the Ducks until Carlyle is fired) for the Ducks in regulation time this season. Langkow and Tony Amonte (who's apparently rediscovered his nose for the net in the last few games) opened the scoring, and Lombardi sealed the deal with an empty net goal.
Despite the loss the Anaheim Ducks still lead the NHL with 28 points and have a 4 point lead over the Dallas Stars in the Pacific Division (Dallas, as you know, is one of the finest coastal cities in the country).
Quick Shave:
Well, my bid for Jaromir Jagr to join the NHL Hat Trick Club last night was not to be, but the New York Rangers captain did offer three assists, 2 of which were on Nylander scores during the 5-2 spanking of the Atlanta Thrashers last night. The Rangers power play unit is finally starting to click and they have now scored 7 goals in the past three games on the man advantage. Dominik Hasek is still the man. Hasek made 21 saves last night against the Nashville Predators to lift the Detroit Red Wings 3-0 and his second straight shutout. Hasek hasn't allowed a goal in 153 minutes and 28 seconds. The Red Wings look like their old selves again....unbeatable. Even without Ryan Miller, the Buffalo Sabres are going to be a chore to defeat as the Florida Panthers discovered last night. Martin Biron who was less than average in net allowed 4 goals to Florida, but the Sabre rallied from 2 goals down to force OT and take the game 5-4. The Sabres defense of late hasn't been great (even when Miller was in net) and they seem to be starting games behind the 8-ball lately. Playing from behind may be working so far, but I think it may bite them hard later. The Ottawa Senators got of their losing streak by defeating the Pittsburgh Penguins 6-3 last night, and the Edmonton Oilers did likewise by defeating the Columbus Blue Jackets 4-1. What happened to the Blue Jackets? I thought this team was gonna make a playoff push? They are only pushing one thing right now....and it stinks. Come on NASH! Let's go guy.
Game of the Night:
Montreal at Toronto 7:00 PM
Calgary at Vancouver 10:00 PM
How about an all Canadian evening? Maybe if we're lucky NHL Center Ice will give us the French broadcast of the Habs / Leafs broadcast. Maybe if I'm not too drunk, I'll still be concious by the second game? Maybe? Enjoy the games my soup catching friends!
The Anaheim Ducks still remain unbeaten in regulation, along with the Buffalo Sabres. They did however receive their 4th OT loss at the hands of the New York Rangers, who rebounded from a dreadfull performance against the L.A. Kings two nights ago.
Jaromir Jagr scored his 104th game winner last night against the Ducks to help the Rangers to a 4-3 overtime victory. Jagr tied teammate Brendan Shannahan on the all time game winner list, and the pair sit fourth behind Brett Hull (104), Espo (118), and Gordie Howe (121). The win was certainly a bench test for the Rangers, who defeated one of the premiere teams in the NHL, and showed what they are capable of when consistent, hard working and disciplined. The good teams, always seem to find a way to capitalize on their opponent's mistakes, and Anaheim made Marek Malik pay for two turnovers, on goals by Chris Pronger and Ryan Getzlaf. The Rangers were able to rally, and force OT, where Jagr took care of the rest. The Rangers complete their West Coast road trip against the San Jose Sharks tonight.
Quick Shave:
I think I found out why the Calgary Flames aren't scoring. Because they arent' shooting! 15 shots? Come on guys. Hasek wasn't even on his game last night, but only had to make 13 saves to get the 3-2 win for the Detroit Red Wings. The Flames have now dropped three in a row.....and I believe this is the 4th win in a row for the Wings (jeff correct me if I'm wrong). Evgeni Malkin is the greatest rookie ever! Well, maybe I'm exaggerating, but Malkin tied a rookie record for scoring his sixth goal, in his sixth game to start a career. He ended the evening, but scoring his 7th, and game winner in OT to lift the Pittsburgh Penguins 4-3 over the L.A. Kings. This kid is awesome....this team is awesome. Crosby had a quiet evening, only assisting on three of the teams goals. The Nashville Predators ended the Oilers unbeaten streak at home by way of a 5-3 win. Paul Kariya had a 3 assist evening. Cam Ward of the Carolina Hurricanes seems to be regaining his Conn Smythe form, as he backstopped his team with 40 saves and helped them defeat the Atlanta Thrashers 5-2. Atlanta has now lost two in a row since handing the Sabres their first loss of the season. The Florida Panthers are going to lose Todd Bertuzzi for about 8 weeks. The big forward needs surgery to repair a herniated disc which has hampered his play.
Game of the Night:
Montreal at Carolina 7:00 PM
NY Rangers at San Jose 10:30 PM
Huet gets the nod to see if he find the fire that helped the Habs into the playoffs last year, against the Canes who knocked them out of the first round last year. If you remember the Canes lost the first two, then responded and won four straight to take the series in 6. The second game is Bosher going homer. I want to see how my boys in blue play against the Sharks who have looked awesome. Playoff Beard of the Month winner for October Joe Thornton will be looking to get his second goal of the season. Enjoy the games!
The Dallas Stars are still unbeaten, and in the history of the shootout era have only lost one time. Marty Turco had another great night, and even though he and the Stars gave up the tying goal seconds before regulation ended, they were still able to finish the game. Dallas went on to beat the 4-3 by way of shootout.
Turco had 36 saves on the night, and is off to another great start, but he and everyone else knows, that his regular season performance will have little effect on whether or not he remains in Dallas next year. Turco has to shed his playoff curse and carry the Stars to the promise land. A place they have not been since Turco replaced then number one goalie Ed Belfour in 2000. If he crashes and burns in the post season this year, he will certainly recieve the old 'Manny Legace Treatment', and be chased out of town.
My suggestion to Turco to improve his playoff chances....grow a playoff beard! Granted round one playoff beards tend to be scruff (unless you are Scott Niedermayer, who looks like ZZ Top after game 2), but you need all the help you can get my friend.
Game of the Night:
Edmonton at Vancouver 10:00 PM
Let's head West. The surging Edmonton Oilers face off against the retooled Vancouver Canucks. This should be a nice bench test for Luongo to see if he can handle the swarm of Oilers forwards. The top line of Naslund and the Sedin twins was impressive the other night in San Jose, keeping the Thornton and Cheechoo line off the scoreboard while they themselves put up 6 points (2 goals, 4 assists).....they still lost, but it's nice to see Naslund playing defence this year....something he didn't really try last season, as his -19 would indicate. 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!
Perhaps one of the greatest playoff beards ever seen in the NHL is on full display at AnaheimDucks.com. Defenseman Scott Niedermayer's playoff beard is on full display in the upper right corner of the page. My hats off to the Anaheim organization for not only recognizing Mr. Neidermayer's greatness, but also his unparalleled facial hair growth. Thanks again to my buddy from Scandanavia, JR for sending this in.
Rangers vs. Panthers in San Juan, Puerto Rico
In attempt to be ambassadors for the sport, the Rangers and Panthers are bringing the NHL to the Islands. I think it's great that these teams are trying to spread the NHL around the world, and get more people into the sport. I've always believed that if you got an individual to go to one game they would be hooked for life. You can watch this Caribbean matchup tonight at 7:30 on MSG.
Tonight's Games:
Boston at NY Islanders 6:00 PM
St. Louis at Atlanta 7:00 PM
Toronto at Montreal 7:00 PM
Ottawa at Philadelphia 7:00 PM
Florida at NY Rangers 7:30 PM
Buffalo at Pittsburgh 7:30 PM
Calgary at Edmonton 8:00 PM
Carolina at Nashville 8:00 PM
Columbus at Chicago 8:30 PM
Colorado at Los Angeles 10:30 PM
Anaheim at San Jose 10:30 PM
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.
The Philadelphia Flyers and restricted free agent forward Simone Gagne sitll remain very far apart financially in terms of finalizing a new deal for the star winger. Gagne, who enjoyed a breakout season while riding shotgun to Peter Forsberg scored 79 points (47 goals, 32 assists) is seeking a multi-year deal between $5 and $6 million per season. Contracts awarded to Alex Tanguay ($5.25 million per year) of the Flames and Martin Havlat ($6 million per year) of the Blackhawks have set the bench mark for Gagne and his agents demands. Flyers GM Bob Clarke appears unwilling to budge and has stated his latest offer on the table is his final offer. Big surprise there. It's looking very likely that Gagne will not be in Flyers training camp when it opens next week.
Ducks re-sign Bryzgalov
Rookie sensation Ducks netminder Ilya Bryzgalov recieved a big raise due in large part to his playoff heroics which lifted Anaheim to the Western Conference Finals. The new 2 year contract will pay Bryzgalov $1 million the first season and $1, 362,500 in the second. He led all goalies during the playoffs in stats and shutouts. He kept Colorado off the scoreboard for 3 of the 4 games enroute to a sweep of the Avalanche.
Maybe it's too soon to talk about this, but I figured why not start speculating? There's been a lot of movement this offseason, and some really big names have swapped cities. One of the biggest has to be Chris Pronger being traded to Anaheim. All Pronger did last year was help the Edmonton Oilers to within one game of winning the Stanley Cup.
The Ducks weren't slouches last year either. A team that no one expected much from marched all the way to the Western Conference Finals, where they eventually fell to the Oilers. They already had one of the best defencemen in the NHL in Scott Neidermayer, a healthy and very productive Teemu Selanne, and star rookie goalie Ilya Bryzgalov. Now add Chris Pronger to the mix. Neidermayer and Pronger as your top 2 defencemen? This is without question, the best pairing in the NHL.....and perhaps the best the NHL has ever seen? Expect Anaheim's powerplay to be ridiculous, and I would also expect to see Neidermayer and Pronger playing massive minutes (25-30 a game) and facing the top lines of opposing team.
Right now I'm having a really hard time finding reasons why they won't be at the big dance this year.
Yahoo's Top 10 Fantasy Draft
Thanks to my buddy Stache for this! Yahoo posted their Top 50, but for comparison's sake, I'm going to give you the Top 10 in their draft. You can see my picks here.
1. Joe Thornton
2. Miikka Kiprusoff
3. Alexander Ovechkin
4. Jaromir Jagr
5. Dany Heatley
6. Sidney Crosby
7. Jonathan Cheechoo
8. Daniel Alfredsson
9. Ilya Kovalchuk
10. Jason Spezza
It looks like Thornton may be everyone's #1 pick. Can't argue with that. What follows is a toss up of some very reliable talent. It's funny how Kipper is the only goalie to crack their Top 10. Oh and Stache, I don't see Forsberg being picked till the 2nd round. Unfortunately, he is the 'Swedish Lindros'....when he's in the game he's great.....when he's in the game. I'm really curious to see how Gagne responds without him....because he was awfully quiet when Forsberg was on the IR.
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?
Do or die last night for the Ducks, and the Ducks did. Ilya Bryzgalov the latest hot goalie in Anaheim found himself riding the pine in favor of the Ducks 2003 hot goaltender Jean Sebastien Giguere. Did the goalie change do much to spark the Ducks? Not really. I think there was a sense of urgency throughout the whole team, especially on the offense. For the second straight game, it seems that the Ducks have figured out how to score on Edmonton goalie Dwayne Roloson. Roloson who looked very ordinary last night surrendered 3 goals in the first period (the Ducks took 25 shots on him in the first, that's desperation!), and 2 more before being pulled in favor of the extra skater, which Anaheim forward Joffrey Lupul, quickly converted into an empty net goal, his second of the game. Anaheim finished off the Oilers 6-3.
Anaheim trails Edmonton in the series 3-1, but carry alot of momentum back to the pond ( didn't I say they need to do this? Shout out to the Ducks for listening to the bosher and visiting Playoff Beard!) and a ton of confidence. I still stand by my prediction that this one will go 7 games. For more on this series visit TSN.ca.
Bryzgalov. Ilya Bryzgalov. The Anaheim Mighty Ducks can breathe a sigh of relief. Not only did they sweep the Avs last night, but their hot goalie returned to form last night and stopped 40 shots on the way to a 4-1 win and series clincher. Bryzgalov surrendered 3 goals the previous game, but thanks to the heroics of teammate Joffrey Lupul, the Ducks managed to win anyway. Aside from Game 3, the Avs were never really in this series. They were kept off the scoreboard in games 1 and 2, and last night only managed a meager amount of offense. Credit has to go to the Ducks defence in silencing the Avs forwards, especially Hejduk, Sakic and Tanguay. The Bosher nailed this one, although I did give the Avs one game. For more on this series visit TSN.ca.
The Sens managed to stave off elimination last night. When's the last time you staved off something? Try staving this weekend, you may find it as rewarding as the Senators. Wade Redden got the game winner and Ray Emery made 29 saves to give the Sabres the 2-1 victory and keep the series alive for the Senators. According to TSN.ca, Dominik Hasek is close to making his return. I wonder if this is a good move for the Sens. I had a discussion with the boys from the Face Off Hockey Show about this subject just last week. Is putting in a very cold goaltender a good move right now? Do the Senators have anything to lose being one game away from elimination? Interesting situation. The Sabres and Senators series goes back to Ottawa for game 5 on Saturday. Sabres lead the series 3-1.
I'd like to tip my hat to Mike Knuble, last evenings OLN Celebrity Guest Analyst. It seems like every time Knuble had to answer a question to Bill 'Deep Woods Off' Clement it was always "Yeah Bill, thats how the Sabres kicked our asses too". That couldn't have been to easy. However all in all, I think he did a pretty good job, and was able to take his eyes off of sweet Bill from time to time.
By the way, because I love you guys.....enjoy Bill in all his shirtless glory here:
UPDATE: Completely forgot to mention this! Did anyone see Teppo Numminen shove the linesman last night during the final minutes of the game? I guess he thought it was a Senator at first, but he delivered a pretty nice shot!
For the first time in 4 games Ilya Bryzgalov became human.....which for the Ducks turned out to be no problem, because Joffrey Lupul became super human.
The Avalanche finally managed to put a puck past Brygalov, 3 actually, but were unable to stop Lupul, who scored three during regulation and stunned a packed Pepsi Center crowd with his game winning 4th goal in OT. He's the first player in NHL Playoff History to score 4 goals with the winner in OT.
I loved the pace of this game. Constant back and forth action, lot's of scoring chances, and tons of hitting. Even though I picked the Ducks to take this series, I was hoping for an Avalanche win, just to keep these two teams playing.
Anaheim now leads the series 3-0, and can sweep the Avalanche Thursday night. For more on this game and the series visit TSN.ca.
Playoff Beard Alert:By now you should all be familiar with Scott Niedermayer and his chin music, but look at up and comer tough guy Ian Laperriere....not only does his face look like burger, but it is beautifully framed in a lush playoff beard.
I'd also like to congratulate Rick DiPietro on what I think was his first broadcast last night as an NHL commentator. I think he did a pretty good job as OLN's goalie analyst. He offered some pretty good points on Jose Theodore's play, and looks like he might have a future after hockey. My only criticism Rick (not that your are reading this!) is that when you are speaking you should look into the camera to address the viewer as well as your co-hosts. I know its hard not to stare at Bill Clement....especially since his Deep Woods Off commercial.....but try and force yourself. Good luck Rick.
Last night's scores:
Anaheim 4 Colorado 3 F (OT)
Tonight's games:
Ottawa at Buffalo 7:00 PM
Carolina at New Jersey 7:00 PM
San Jose at Edmonton 10:00 PM
The force is strong with this one. Sometime today, future Hall of Famer Luc Robitaille will announce his decision to retire. With three games remaining and the likelihood of the Kings making the playoffs almost an impossibility, the Kings will celebrate their star forward. The highest scoring left winger ever in the game and the star of Sudden Impact, has a total of 668 goals, and 726 assists. His career spanned 1,428 regular seasons games and brought him to Pittsburgh, New York, Detroit and Los Angeles. He played in 159 playoff games, tallying 58 goals and 69 assists, and helped the Red Wings to a Stanley Cup victory in 2002. For more on Luc, visit TSN.ca.
Ovechkin broke the 100 point mark last night with a goal in a 2-1 overtime win against the Bruins last night. One shy of 50, Ovechkin has had an amazing season. This kid will clearly win the Calder trophy this year, and I wouldn't be surprised to see him take the MVP next year. He's that good.
Anaheim and the Niedermayer brothers may have crushed Vancouver's playoff hopes last night with a 4-2 victory. Scott and Rob scored early to give the Ducks a 2-0 lead. The win helped Anaheim clinch a playoff berth. Playoff Beard Alert: Thank goodness! Scott Niedermayer is a playoff beard veteran. If the Ducks can last a round or two this guy will look like Jesus on ice!
One final note, to the jackass broadcaster in Ottawa (don't know your name, but you know who you are), Daniel Alfredsson has had a terrific year, but in no way is he even close to having an MVP calibre season. There are 6 guys ahead of him in points, and he hasn't even hit 100, and most likely won't. I love watching your broadcasts up in Canada, but sometimes you color guys get a little too biased on your boys up North. Take a step a back and think before you talk. Saying Daniel Alfredsson is a candidate for the MVP trophy is like saying the French were pivotal in winning World War II.
Since I'm on the topic, here are my thoughts for MVP, it should come down to Jagr, Thornton, and possibly Ovechkin. Strong consideration could go towards Turco and Kiprussoff as well, but I think the points Jagr and Thornton have put up will be difficult to ignore. I'll make my final picks later this week.
Last night's scores:
Washington 2 Boston 1 F (OT)
Ottawa 2 Montreal 3 F San Jose 3 Phoenix 2 F Anaheim 4 Vancouver 2 F
Game of the night:
Edmonton at Detroit 7:30 PM
Edmonton needs this one bad. They hold the last playoff spot with 3 games remaining, and have only a 2 point lead over 9th place Vancouver. Expect the Oilers to battle hard for this one. Enjoy the games!
Since we are nearing the completion of the 2005-2006 NHL Season, I thought I would start breaking down the awards, and those who I feel will have a good chance of winning them.
The Norris trophy. Awarded to the best defenseman, and the individual with the best beard and roundhouse kick. This year we have a busload of possibilities. I'm going to give you my top three, and hopefully pick the winner (I picked Sweden to win the Gold and the Rangers to make the playoffs this year, so I'm not doing to shabby this year!!). Here are my top three, in no particular order:
Matt Schneider of the Detroit Red Wings
What a season Schneider is having. 21 goals, 31 assists, and an amazing +26. If he's on the ice, chances are he's scoring, helping someone else to score, and keeping you away from his net. He's no Mary either. Schneider has always played with a certain level of ferocity (ever since he was a Ranger, man I can understand that, cuz we were all pissed back then. Side Note....one of Sather's biggest blunders was not resigning this guy, he was a great New York Ranger), and has amassed 76 minutes in penalties. Schneider also has 25 power play points and 4 game winning goals. Fortunately Schneider is a big part of my first place fantasy squad.
Lubomir Visnovsky of the Los Angeles Kings
Visnovsky is having a stellar campaign. 17 goals, 43 assists, and a very nice +14. Visnovsky has been making his living on the power play this year with 37 points and has recorded 3 game winning goals. If you drafted him in your fantasy team this year, then you are happier than Frederica Bimmell at a seamstress convention. Visnovsky is a huge part of LA's powerhouse season.
Niklas Lidstrom
It's hard to not name this guy. Lidstrom is always up for or winning this award (he's won it 3 times (2000-2001, 2001-2002, 2002-2003)). It won't be long before we have to rename this the Lidstrom trophy. This year is no different. Lidstrom has 13 goals, and 54 assists and is a +13. He has 44 points on the power play and 2 game winning goals. If Lidstrom wins it this year, no one will be shocked. This guy is the model of consistency.
Here are a few other guys worth looking at, but I don't think they will make the final three due to weaknesses that these fellas above really don't have. Bryan McCabe is having an outstanding year point wise for the Leafs, especially on the PP, but he is a -1. Wade Redden is having a career year as well. 46 points and a +33, but his point totals don't come near my top 3. Dion Phaneuf, your years will come my man. This youngster has had an amazing season, and if not for the depth of the rookie class he'd be raising the Calder Trophy this year and having tea with Ms. MacGill. Scott Niedermayer, Chris Pronger, Sergei Zubov, and Zedeno Chara, are all playing world class hockey this year.
I think the winner is going to be a toss up between Lidstrom and Schneider. If you went on points alone you have to give it to Lidstrom, but I think Schneider has had a better all-around season. I'm going to say Matt Schneider wins the Norris Trophy. PlayoffBeard Alert: Schneider grows a beauty in the post season. His beard would make Kris Kristofferson weep, and order the roast duck with the mango salsa.
Last night's scores:
Philadelphia 4 Florida 0 F
Anaheim 1 Detroit 3 F
Columbus 2 Chicago 3 F
Game of the night:
NY Islanders at Atlanta 7:00 PM
Let's give the Islander's there due. Milbury tried to sink this team like the Andrea Doria, but they have refused to quit and are on a 4 game winning streak. Unfortunately the lost Alexei Zhitnik the other night to a broken ankle for the rest of the season but I think they are used to this kind of adversity. Atlanta wants the last playoff spot. So do the Isles. This should have a playoff type feel to it. DiPietro has been playing like a man possessed lately as well. The Olympics actually did a player good (he played for USA so in fairness their was plenty of time to rest). Enjoy the games!
After spending several seasons with the New Jersey Devils and Washington Capitals, Jeff Friesen is on his way back to the West Coast. The Anaheim Mighty Ducks have acquired Friesen from the Caps in exchange for a second round pick.
PlayoffBeard Alert: This is win/win for all of us. The Ducks are on the playoff bubble and Friesen has quite possibly the worst playoff beard/mustache ever seen. This is a case of it being so bad its good. We can only hope and pray that he puts the razor away!
The Phoenix Coyotes have just sent defenceman Denis Gauthier to Philadelphia for forward Josh Gratton, and two 2006 second round picks. The Coyotes also dealt Sean O'Donnell to the Anaheim Mighty Ducks. Details of what they received in return have yet to be disclosed.
Is this a prelude to the Coyotes trading goaltender Curtis Joseph? We'll know in two and half hours!
Anaheim Ducks forward, enforcer and owner of the finest facial hair in the NHL scored in his club's 3-2 shootout win over the Toronto Maple Leafs last night.
The Marian Gaborik trade watch is officially on now that rumors broke yesterday that the Minnesota Wild have already offered him up as a potential trade. An 'unnamed' NHL exec reported that Wild GM Doug Risebrough had been actively shopping their star forward. 
The Chicago Blackhawks placed goaltender Nikolai Khabibulin on waivers today.
The Penguins also lost defenceman Ryan Whitney till December with a foot injury. 
While it took a week longer than I expected, Anaheim Ducks defenceman Mathieu Schneider finally has a new home.
The Flaming Bertuzzi. A cocktail made from exotic top shelf liquors, or a finishing move employed by professional cage fighters? You decide.
No hesitation or mid-season returns this year. Anaheim Ducks defenceman Scott Niedermayer officially announced that he would back with his club for the final year of his contract.
Upon further review....
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Teemu Selanne officially announced his return to the NHL and the Anaheim Might Ducks today.
That didn't take long.
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Sakic: “Ryan?”
Set to be one of the premiere goaltenders on the UFA market this summer, Anaheim Ducks goaltender Jean-Sebastien Giguere opted not to test the free agent waters and sign a lucrative long term contract with his current club.
After finally getting rid of Mike Milbury, the New York Islanders announced that they will be excising their remaining cancer by buying out the remainder of forward Alexei Yashin's contract. Yashin had 4 years left on his ridiculous 10 year contract. The Islanders will owe Yashin $17.63 million as part of the CBA two-thirds buy out option rather than the $26.45 million if he stayed on the roster. The Islanders will receive a cap hit of $2.2 million a year for the next 8 seasons (it may be 4, but the wording on this is a bit confusing). Regardless, the Islanders can look forward to the future as they will attempt to retain Ryan Smyth who they got from Edmonton at the trade deadline in February, and forward Jason Blake, both of who are eligible for unrestricted free agency July 1st.
Awesome game! Probably one of the best I've seen all playoffs this year, but at the same time, can anyone remember a game loaded with so many bizarre moments?
CAN YOOUUUUUUU DIG IT!!!!!
The Dragons:
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Sorry for the long absence folks, but the Bosher has been on the road, and while I've been able to stay informed and watch some unreal hockey over the past few days, I have been unable to deliver my sermon unto you.
The Detroit Red Wings ripped off a 1-0 win in a tight contest against the Anaheim Ducks last night. Forward Pavel Datsyuk, had the only score on the night, and Red Wings goaltender Dominik Hasek made 25 saves for his 7th shut out of the season, and the 75th of his career.
Two games against the Anaheim Ducks, and San Jose forward Jonathan Cheechoo scored 4 goals. Unfortunately, San Jose dropped the first of the home and home with Anaheim 7-4 on Tuesday night despite Cheechoo's production. Last night the San Jose Sharks took the second meeting 3-2, thanks to a late power play goal by Milan Michalek.
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.
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.
NY Islanders at NY Rangers 7:00 PM <
Phoenix at Dallas 8:30 PM 
The Ducks met the Sharks last night in what will surely be a playoff matchup this season. The Pacific Division rivals, currently sit first (Ducks) and second (Sharks), and both lead the Western Conference in points.
The Calgary Flames man between the pipes Miikka Kiprusoff made 23 saves against the reigning Stanley Cup Champion Carolina Hurricanes for the 3-0 shutout win. Kiprusoff is tied with Broduer, Giguere, Lehtonen, and Hasek with 4 shutout wins.
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. 
The Anaheim Ducks still remain unbeaten in regulation, along with the Buffalo Sabres. They did however receive their 4th OT loss at the hands of the New York Rangers, who rebounded from a dreadfull performance against the L.A. Kings two nights ago.
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