OH woeth is me... Hockey Gods! Why have thou struck me down!? What did I do to offend thee!? What did the Habs do wrong!? Have we besmirched thee!?
The answer is nothing. I did nothing to besmirch the Hockey Gods.
Now that I've thoroughly purged the sickness to my stomach which resulted from the ugh... Boston Bruins winning the Stanley Cup (I can hardly write it, I'm telling you), I'm ready to discuss this. Although my faith in the Hockey Gods has been shaken, the Bruins winning the Stanley Cup this year only makes sense if the Habs bring it back to its rightful home to Montreal in 2012.
My full faith in you will be restored oh Hockey Gods as by then, it'll all make sense.
Yes, the Bruins were the better team in the Finals. Yes, the Canucks choked and definitely did not play their best hockey. Yes most definitely, Timmy Thomas deserves everything he's getting right now. The guy played terrific and got into the heads of his opponent, just like every top goalie who ends up winning it all has done in the past. Just like Dryden. Just like Roy. And just like Hasek.
Sure the Canucks were hurt. No doubt Ryan Kessler was nursing something. He just wasn't the force he was in the previous three series. But hey! The Bruins lost Nathan Horton, who had been really clutch for that team. After all, it could even be argued that if Horton had gotten hurt in the first round, the Habs might have pulled it out.
But what I will not argue is that just because the Habs pushed the Bruins to the brink, and played their hearts out, that if they had prevailed in the opening round it would have been them hoisting the cup last week. I didn't see this year's team as a Stanley Cup winner.
But I do for 2012!
Why!? Quite simply, it's all part of the Hockey Gods' master plan.
The Bruins had to hit the lowest of the lows in order to hit the highest of the highs. Last year, they blew a 3-0 series lead only to lose to the Flyers in Game 7. This year, they won it all.
Is there anything worse for the Habs than to see the Bruins win the Cup, especially this year? A year that saw Chara almost end Max Pacioretty's career, and former Hab Mark Recchi wipe off his online doctor's diploma to say the injury wasn't all that bad??? A year that saw Ference give the finger to the Montreal crowd, then say it was an equipment malfunction? A year that saw the Habs dominate the Bruins in the regular season, only to fall to the Beantowners because of a lucky break???
I don't think so. This is officially the lowest of the low for the Habs. And now, the rebound back the other way to the highest of the highs is surely to take place.
Everyone can see that the Habs have something quite good in the making. Young, exciting talents like Carey Price and P.K. Subban form the kind of bedrock in which championships are won. Leaders like Captain Brian Gionta and Hal Gill have gone all the way and know what it takes to win. Elite world players like Tomas Plekanec who have played on all sorts of stages, and are just biting at the bit to take it to the next level professionally.
Plus a bunch of other solid players, still quite young, who have a lot to prove... and want to do it on the big stage in Montreal.
That's why the Habs resigned Frere Andrei Kostitsyn. It's why they resigned Mathieu Darche, a guy who takes nothing for granted. It's why they resigned Max Pacioretty and David Desharnais. It's why they resigned Hal Gill. It's also why they will resign Andrei Markov.
And it's why Jaromir Jagr is supposedly interested in signing with the Habs. It probably won't happen, but just goes to show you, he sees and knows what's happening in Montreal. Not to mention his obvious chemistry with fellow Czech Plekanec but that's besides the point. Everyone plays well with Plekanec. Maybe Gomez should play the wing...
Folks, I'm looking at the bright side of the Bruins' championship. And here it is:
1) We didn't really want Max Lapierre and Chris Higgins to win the Stanley Cup, did we?
2) I always thought Luongo was overrated and this proved it; and though he can't be pinned with the full blame, his shows in Boston weren't winning material.
3) Tim Thomas, hey, the guy is a great story -- and at 37, he probably only has a few more years left.
4) Michael Ryder hoisting the Cup -- good for him. I always liked him, even if he did burn the Habs this post-season -- but he probably won't be resigned by the Bruins this summer.
5) I didn't watch Chara pick up the Cup, but I did hope he'd fall back and hit his head with it and supposedly, that almost happened. And he'll get his eventually...
But most importantly: The Bruins win LIGHTS A FIRE UNDER THE ENTIRE CANADIENS' ORGANIZATION. No more messing around now. This is serious.
WE HAVE TO WIN, AND WE'RE GOING TO WIN!!!
This is the first time the Stanley Cup has been won by the Northeast Division since the Habs last won in '93 (or whatever the division was called at the time) plus the first time since 1972 -- the last time the Bruins won prior to this year -- that a Habs divisional rival has won the Stanley Cup. In fact, the Bruins may not have been in the same division back then.
Think about it: Remember the old Adams Division? Who other than the Habs won it all from that division?? Since that time the Habs have been in a division with the Hartford Whalers, the Quebec Nordiques, the Bruins, the Buffalo Sabres, the Maple Leafs, and who else? I'm not even sure. But what I can be sure is, none of these teams ever won the Cup, except now for the Bruins.
Plus, we know that it's only fitting the Cup would come back to Canada in the storied hands of the Montreal Canadiens. Not the Vancouver Canucks, who always let me down, whom I wanted to lose until they faced the Bruins in the finals, and whom I will never, ever root for again.
The last time the Boston Bruins won the Stanley Cup with Bobby Orr leading the way, the Habs went on to win 5 championships (in '73, '76',77, '78' and '79). History has a way of repeating itself :)
Take that Jack Edwards (moronic play-by-play man for the Boston Bruins).
I can't wait for the season to begin. Na na na nah, hey heyyyyyy, goodbye!!!
Wednesday, June 22, 2011
Sunday, June 5, 2011
Bruins' Bad Karma Begins to Catch Up to Them
It was bound to happen...
What a burn it must be for Bruins fans to not only lose Game 2 of the Stanley Cup Finals last night in Vancouver, but to lose at the hands of none other than Alex Burrows, biter extraordinaire.
No doubt, Mike Murphy of the NHL's corrections bureau needs a new prescription for his glasses. Yeah sure, Bergeron's hand was in his face, but Burrows definitely should have been suspended, at least one game, for his despicable act. It definitely crossed the line. We could see his teeth come down, for crying out loud.
Of course, the same applied to Zdeno Chara when he shoved Max Paciorretty into the turnbuckle back in March. Again, Murphy reviewed the play and the response was no suspension.
What comes around goes around Bruins fans.
And so Burrows plays, scores the game's opening goal, one that Timmy Thomas should have had but wasn't flush against the post; gets an assist on the game's tying goal in the 3rd period; then becomes the overtime hero once again scoring 11 seconds in while becoming the 2nd fastest OT goal scorer in Stanley Cup playoff history -- with Montreal Canadiens' forward Brian Skrudland holding that honour after taking a beautiful saucer pass from Mike McPhee to score back in 1986 against the Calgary Flames, yes!
This was from the last round, but I love this picture of Tampa Bay coach Guy Boucher. The guy is intense, and maybe a bit nuts. Don't worry Guy, you'll win a cup when you coach the Habs.
What was even more beautiful about the Burrows goal -- to me at least -- is how it truly exposed that the Bruins are completely outmatched against the Canucks and have been lucky to have gotten to this point:
Andrew Ference, a hack of a defenseman who gave the finger to the Montreal crowd earlier in the playoffs (more bad Karma for Boston) passes to nobody and has it picked off after the Bruins won the opening faceoff. Two quick passes and Burrows is flying in on the left side. Big Z Chara cuts off the angle and Burrows does exactly what I was waiting for -- he fakes out Thomas who is like a mile out of his net (almost 12 ft. to be exact) and ends up trying to go around him to angle it in. But he's forced behind the net by Chara and Thomas who tried to trip him.
However, Chara and Thomas got caught up for just a split second, allowing Burrows to gain a step on Big Z and swing around to put the puck into the open net.
Thomas overplays pucks and did so all night but somehow he gets away with it, like he has all season long. He makes a lot of crazy saves that are of his own making to begin with (i.e. covering up his own mistakes). Chara gave up the puck deep in Boston's zone for Vancouver's tying goal in the 3rd and should have been able to push the much smaller Burrows off the puck (however, there was no turnbuckle present so I guess it makes sense).
Ference, well he's just a loser and always will be. He can stay with the Bruins as long as his career lasts as far as I'm concerned.
Skill vs. brawn folks. And you know what? The Bruins, they don't really even bring the brawn. Tell me who is battling and hitting for this team? Horton? He's just waiting for open nets. Lucic? He's been a terrific disappointment even with his goal last night. Chara? Forget it. Boychuk maybe and Seidenberb are both clearly Boston's best dmen this playoffs. Chara hasn't played to his abilities; Kaberle -- he'll be looking for work in about a week and McQuaid? He's a whoda
f!@# !!
Boston took 3 OT wins agains the Habs in the 1st Round. Habs win one of those, Habs win. Finally Boston lost an OT game. Thank you hockey gods for restoring my faith in you.
At times Boston looks like a fish out of water when the Canucks turn up the pace. They just can't keep up with a fast-paced game. They were riding on confidence after breaking through Luongo in the second, but aside from that period, they've been outclassed ALL THE WAY.
I hope it continues.
Vancouver is now up 2-0 heading into Boston for Game 3 on Monday.
Go 'Nucks!!! Go Habs too!!
Speaking of the Habs, the team re-signed veteran dman Hal Gill to a one year, 2.25 million deal this week. I have to admit, I didn't like Gainey's original signing of the big man, because I'd seen him at his worst when he was on the Leafs. Then, somehow he found his role when he played on the Penguins Stanley Cup winning team. Now, he's a big-time leader who mentored Subban this year and was terrific with Gorges as a shutdown tandem last year.
With the hopes that the Habs' top four dmen will stay healthy this coming year (Markov, Gorges -- yes I think they both will be re-signed -- Subban and ??) Gill can play less minutes and be that much more effective. Bravo Hal, you're a good guy and a class act and worthy of the Montreal Canadiens jersey. Have a great 2011-2012 season.
And with that, there should be some more fun and excitement regarding signings in the following weeks leading up to July 1. I expect Markov and Gorges to be resigned. Kostitsyn too. We'll see what happens.
MAKE IT EIGHT!!! Quebec City, YOU'RE NEXT!!!
What a burn it must be for Bruins fans to not only lose Game 2 of the Stanley Cup Finals last night in Vancouver, but to lose at the hands of none other than Alex Burrows, biter extraordinaire.
No doubt, Mike Murphy of the NHL's corrections bureau needs a new prescription for his glasses. Yeah sure, Bergeron's hand was in his face, but Burrows definitely should have been suspended, at least one game, for his despicable act. It definitely crossed the line. We could see his teeth come down, for crying out loud.
Of course, the same applied to Zdeno Chara when he shoved Max Paciorretty into the turnbuckle back in March. Again, Murphy reviewed the play and the response was no suspension.
What comes around goes around Bruins fans.
And so Burrows plays, scores the game's opening goal, one that Timmy Thomas should have had but wasn't flush against the post; gets an assist on the game's tying goal in the 3rd period; then becomes the overtime hero once again scoring 11 seconds in while becoming the 2nd fastest OT goal scorer in Stanley Cup playoff history -- with Montreal Canadiens' forward Brian Skrudland holding that honour after taking a beautiful saucer pass from Mike McPhee to score back in 1986 against the Calgary Flames, yes!This was from the last round, but I love this picture of Tampa Bay coach Guy Boucher. The guy is intense, and maybe a bit nuts. Don't worry Guy, you'll win a cup when you coach the Habs.
What was even more beautiful about the Burrows goal -- to me at least -- is how it truly exposed that the Bruins are completely outmatched against the Canucks and have been lucky to have gotten to this point:
Andrew Ference, a hack of a defenseman who gave the finger to the Montreal crowd earlier in the playoffs (more bad Karma for Boston) passes to nobody and has it picked off after the Bruins won the opening faceoff. Two quick passes and Burrows is flying in on the left side. Big Z Chara cuts off the angle and Burrows does exactly what I was waiting for -- he fakes out Thomas who is like a mile out of his net (almost 12 ft. to be exact) and ends up trying to go around him to angle it in. But he's forced behind the net by Chara and Thomas who tried to trip him.
However, Chara and Thomas got caught up for just a split second, allowing Burrows to gain a step on Big Z and swing around to put the puck into the open net.
Thomas overplays pucks and did so all night but somehow he gets away with it, like he has all season long. He makes a lot of crazy saves that are of his own making to begin with (i.e. covering up his own mistakes). Chara gave up the puck deep in Boston's zone for Vancouver's tying goal in the 3rd and should have been able to push the much smaller Burrows off the puck (however, there was no turnbuckle present so I guess it makes sense).
Ference, well he's just a loser and always will be. He can stay with the Bruins as long as his career lasts as far as I'm concerned.
Skill vs. brawn folks. And you know what? The Bruins, they don't really even bring the brawn. Tell me who is battling and hitting for this team? Horton? He's just waiting for open nets. Lucic? He's been a terrific disappointment even with his goal last night. Chara? Forget it. Boychuk maybe and Seidenberb are both clearly Boston's best dmen this playoffs. Chara hasn't played to his abilities; Kaberle -- he'll be looking for work in about a week and McQuaid? He's a whoda
f!@# !!
Boston took 3 OT wins agains the Habs in the 1st Round. Habs win one of those, Habs win. Finally Boston lost an OT game. Thank you hockey gods for restoring my faith in you.
At times Boston looks like a fish out of water when the Canucks turn up the pace. They just can't keep up with a fast-paced game. They were riding on confidence after breaking through Luongo in the second, but aside from that period, they've been outclassed ALL THE WAY.
I hope it continues.
Vancouver is now up 2-0 heading into Boston for Game 3 on Monday.
Go 'Nucks!!! Go Habs too!!
Speaking of the Habs, the team re-signed veteran dman Hal Gill to a one year, 2.25 million deal this week. I have to admit, I didn't like Gainey's original signing of the big man, because I'd seen him at his worst when he was on the Leafs. Then, somehow he found his role when he played on the Penguins Stanley Cup winning team. Now, he's a big-time leader who mentored Subban this year and was terrific with Gorges as a shutdown tandem last year.
With the hopes that the Habs' top four dmen will stay healthy this coming year (Markov, Gorges -- yes I think they both will be re-signed -- Subban and ??) Gill can play less minutes and be that much more effective. Bravo Hal, you're a good guy and a class act and worthy of the Montreal Canadiens jersey. Have a great 2011-2012 season.
And with that, there should be some more fun and excitement regarding signings in the following weeks leading up to July 1. I expect Markov and Gorges to be resigned. Kostitsyn too. We'll see what happens.
MAKE IT EIGHT!!! Quebec City, YOU'RE NEXT!!!
Tuesday, May 31, 2011
JETS FLY AGAIN!!!
The announcement we've all been waiting for... no, not the Bruins losing in the Finals -- that'll be next week.
NHL HOCKEY IS RETURNING TO WINNIPEG!!!!
Get ready for sold out crowds, bitter winters and... missing the playoffs!?
The announcement is coming at noon ET today.
Cannah wait. Because this means guess who's next!? Thaaaat's right, Quebec City!!!!!
We need those Nordiques back. All my hate has been put towards the Boo-ins, and that's okay. But there was something special about that Nordiques hate that only Quebecers can understand. Get that arena built!!!
Once that happens, we can work on getting back the Expos...
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Stanley Cup Finals -- matchups are locked in
So the Bruins did it, against all odds. I'll give them some credit, they have persevered through a lot. And Nathan Horton has been the difference-maker, along with Timmy Thomas.
But so have the Canucks! Almost losing to their nemesis Chicago Blackhawks after going up 3-0. Coming back against some bad losses against Nashville. Coming back down 2-1 with 14 seconds left in the game to tie and then defeat the Sharks to clinch.
Lot on the line here. Boston would be winning their first cup since the Bobby Orr, pre-Don Cherry era in 1972. Vancouver, in the league since 1970, has never won a cup. This should be a good series, in any case. But I can't see the Canucks losing.
BRING THE CUP HOME TO CANADA -- even if technically, the Cup would be closer to Montreal if it were in Boston. Customs is a drag these days.
Stanley Cup Finals
Boston Bruins vs. Vancouver Canucks
Special teams. The Canucks are going to whip the Bruins in this regard. The possible addition of Malhotra (regardless of what Dr. Recchi says) can be the emotional lift the team needs at this point. Boston's powerplay bites. But they play a strong team game and when they sustain it, they are a very good team. The problem for them is, so do the Canucks. And they have more firepower. I like the Canucks. Some have said they may sweep the Bruins. I don't think that'll happen.
I said it once and I stick to what I believe: skill beats brawn everytime in hockey. We know who's who here.
Who-da thunk Max Lapierre would be raising the Cup over his head this year!? Boy did he luck out. Higgins too. But good for both of them, they've raised their games... and their confidence... since joining the 'Nucks at the trade deadline.
Habs Fan in LeafLand: Canucks in 5
NHL HOCKEY IS RETURNING TO WINNIPEG!!!!
Get ready for sold out crowds, bitter winters and... missing the playoffs!?
The announcement is coming at noon ET today.
Cannah wait. Because this means guess who's next!? Thaaaat's right, Quebec City!!!!!
We need those Nordiques back. All my hate has been put towards the Boo-ins, and that's okay. But there was something special about that Nordiques hate that only Quebecers can understand. Get that arena built!!!
Once that happens, we can work on getting back the Expos...
------------------
Stanley Cup Finals -- matchups are locked in
So the Bruins did it, against all odds. I'll give them some credit, they have persevered through a lot. And Nathan Horton has been the difference-maker, along with Timmy Thomas.
But so have the Canucks! Almost losing to their nemesis Chicago Blackhawks after going up 3-0. Coming back against some bad losses against Nashville. Coming back down 2-1 with 14 seconds left in the game to tie and then defeat the Sharks to clinch.
Lot on the line here. Boston would be winning their first cup since the Bobby Orr, pre-Don Cherry era in 1972. Vancouver, in the league since 1970, has never won a cup. This should be a good series, in any case. But I can't see the Canucks losing.
BRING THE CUP HOME TO CANADA -- even if technically, the Cup would be closer to Montreal if it were in Boston. Customs is a drag these days.
Stanley Cup Finals
Boston Bruins vs. Vancouver Canucks
Special teams. The Canucks are going to whip the Bruins in this regard. The possible addition of Malhotra (regardless of what Dr. Recchi says) can be the emotional lift the team needs at this point. Boston's powerplay bites. But they play a strong team game and when they sustain it, they are a very good team. The problem for them is, so do the Canucks. And they have more firepower. I like the Canucks. Some have said they may sweep the Bruins. I don't think that'll happen.
I said it once and I stick to what I believe: skill beats brawn everytime in hockey. We know who's who here.
Who-da thunk Max Lapierre would be raising the Cup over his head this year!? Boy did he luck out. Higgins too. But good for both of them, they've raised their games... and their confidence... since joining the 'Nucks at the trade deadline.
Habs Fan in LeafLand: Canucks in 5
Sunday, May 15, 2011
3rd Round Preditions and Habs News
R.I.P Derek Boogaard.
28 years old!? What the hell happened!? Shocking loss. Is it bad luck to play on the Rangers? No wonder Gaborik's ghost appears in games. His body is elsewhere, cuddled in a corner.
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Hey folks well after a bit of a hiatus, I'm fully refreshed and ready to talk hockey once again. That doesn't mean I wasn't watching hockey of course and I especially enjoyed the Wings/Sharks series, where Detroit almost pulled off my earlier prediction in which I called for them to win in 7.
So for the 2nd round, I went 2-2, putting my post season totals at 5-7. Not bad. Who could've predicted Tampa would knock the Caps out in 4??? Not me. But now you have to like Tampa, because they have totally bought into Boucher's ideology. He's the man in my opinion. It is interesting to think what the Habs would have been like this year with that guy behind their bench... and you know, I am a Jacques Martin supporter. Just thinking!!
3RD ROUND PREDICTIONS:
EASTERN CONFERENCE FINALS
Tampa Bay Lightning vs. Boston Bruins
Let's get something straight. I don't like the Bruins. They don't like me. But I picked them against the Flyers because of that team's pathetic situation between the pipes, as well as the fact that Crissy Pronger was out. But the Flyers did Tampa a big favour -- actually, Claude Giroux did them a big favour -- in taking out Patrice Bergeron, Boston's best player hands-down.
The Bruins' power play is pathetic, and their top lines are still firing blanks. How they beat the Habs, well, that's for another time. Okay, 3 games in OT, that's how. But here's the deal. The Bruins top lines aren't playing up to snuff and that leaves it all on Timmy Thomas' shoulders. If he pulls off skate lace saves and gets his tongue in front of pucks, the Bruins could eke this one out.
But Tampa has a core of Stanley Cup Champs in Lecavallier and St. Louis, they have a bunch of good grinders in Bergenheim and Moore, and possess much more speed up front and sniper-ship in Stamkos. Plus, the Thomas effect is dulled in the fact that he faces his doppelganger in Dwayne Roloson, with his grey beard poking through his mask. The guy looks more like the team trainer than their starting goalie. But he's solid, he's a competitor, and the Lightning are on a serious roll. AND coach Guy Boucher is a psychological sports guru who has his team believing. This isn't an emotional call, it's the right call.
Habs Fan in LeafLand: Tampa Bay in 6
Update: I'm posting this after Game 1, where Tampa Bay rolled over the Bruins 5-2 in Boston. But the above-decision was made already made, I just didn't have the time to post. Tampa took a 3-0 lead to eventually win 5-2. Marc-Andre Bergeron put one past Thomas to seal the deal in the 3rd. And of course, Boston ended the game with cheap shots, Julien whined about the officiating, and the team looked pathetic as they can't lose with class. Is it the refs' faults your team takes bad penalties then can't kill them off? Is it the refs' faults your team can't score on 4 powerplay chances???? Plus Bergenheim scored his 8th of the playoffs!!! Tampa has never lost a series when they've won the first game.
WESTERN CONFERENCE FINAL
San Jose Sharks vs. Vancouver Canucks
Well, the Sharks are back in the conference finals, barely getting by the Red Wings. The Canucks make their first conference finals in 17 years when they were beaten by the eventual cup winning New York Rangers.
I've never liked the Sharks, hate Dany Heatley, think Joe Thornton's a good player but not great and Patrick Marleau is at his no-show best even if he got the series winning goal against Detroit. Plus, the Canucks have yet to still play their best hockey -- especially the Sedins -- and they have the best player in the post-season in Ryan Kesler. This one's an easy pick, but that doesn't mean it's going to be an easy series. Niemi won last year and who knows how high he can raise his play. But the guy gives out wayyyy too many rebounds, which the Canucks forwards should pounce on. Of course, I'm not a big Luongo fan either, but as long as he stays awake, he should be able to make the saves his team asks of him.
Habs Fan in LeafLand: Canucks in 6
Habs News:
Lots of talk this week about the Habs signing Alexei Yemelin, the 25yr. old defenseman and rumour has it that if they do sign him, it's almost a certainty the Habs will make good with Andrei Markov who would definitely be a valuable asset/mentor for the young, sometimes rambunctious player. That means that most likely James Wisniewski and Roman Hamrlik are goners.
But then GM Pierre Gauthier goes and signs Swiss dman Raphael Diaz -- another Marc Streit clone. At 5"11, 194 lbs. he's another small defenseman with a strong shot. Does this mean the team has given up on Yannick Weber??? Probably not. Remember Streit only broke through at 29, and Weber is 22. And he did show improvement this year and seems willing to play up front where Streit balked at the idea. Diaz had a solid World Championships, posting 4 points (3 goals, 1 assist) in 6 games.
I just read that Steve Yserman, GM of the Year most likely, was interested in Diaz. With Tampa Bay being somewhat of a Habs clone to an extent (see my earlier post in the year about how the Lightning were following the Habs lead), this could be a good signing. Let's see what else happens. Remember, we also have some decent dman prospects in Hamilton, so the Habs' Gauthier has a lot of cards to play.
I'd love to see Wisniewski back, but you know he deserves a pay raise, and with his and Hamrlik's contracts out of the way, that gives the team the dough to sign Markov and Gorges -- who should at least get something close to what the Wiz made this year (3.25 million). We have enough offensive-minded dmen on the squad now with Subban and we need Gorges' stay at home style. I do hope they re-sign Hal Gill (my how things have changed) as he's a true leader on this team and really does his job well. Look at this defense corps:
Andrei Markov
Josh Gorges
P.K. Subban
Jaroslav Spacek
Hal Gill
Yannick Weber/Raphael Diaz
Alexei Yemelin???
We know Mara's a goner. But in my view, the list above needs some grit. Hamrlik, if he takes a major pay-cut, you never know. He's solid, and if he isn't called on to play as many minutes as last year, could still be a good player for the Habs.
And remember, the Habs may make some deals, and Spacek could be a part of that equation.
Then also this week, rumour has it Jaromir Jagr is contemplating a jump over the pond back to the NHL and only wants to come to an Original 6 team. And he's been playing very well with Pleks at the World Championships (but remember, who doesn't play well with Plekanec!?). He obviously still has the skills, and maybe he's the dude to wake Scott Gomez up from his 2010-2011 slumber. But at 39, Jagr certainly wouldn't be the kind of force he once was. Could be good for a 1 year contract, and worse comes to worse they could trade him in February if it didn't work out (someone would surely take him). But knowing the more conservative Gauthier, I'd bet this is just a rumour. But a fun one at that.
THANK GOD, GOALTENDING IS NOT THE BIG ISSUE THIS YEAR. CAREY, YOU DA MAN. CAN'T WAIT TO SEE YOU HOIST THE CUP OVER YER HEAD WEARING YOUR PUCK-MARKED HABS JERSEY. Kisses. Just don't get hurt riding the bulls out west, okay?
Oh the fun to be the Montreal Canadiens GM. I wonder if he dreams about these decisions!? I would...
28 years old!? What the hell happened!? Shocking loss. Is it bad luck to play on the Rangers? No wonder Gaborik's ghost appears in games. His body is elsewhere, cuddled in a corner.
------------
Hey folks well after a bit of a hiatus, I'm fully refreshed and ready to talk hockey once again. That doesn't mean I wasn't watching hockey of course and I especially enjoyed the Wings/Sharks series, where Detroit almost pulled off my earlier prediction in which I called for them to win in 7.
So for the 2nd round, I went 2-2, putting my post season totals at 5-7. Not bad. Who could've predicted Tampa would knock the Caps out in 4??? Not me. But now you have to like Tampa, because they have totally bought into Boucher's ideology. He's the man in my opinion. It is interesting to think what the Habs would have been like this year with that guy behind their bench... and you know, I am a Jacques Martin supporter. Just thinking!!
3RD ROUND PREDICTIONS:
EASTERN CONFERENCE FINALS
Tampa Bay Lightning vs. Boston Bruins
Let's get something straight. I don't like the Bruins. They don't like me. But I picked them against the Flyers because of that team's pathetic situation between the pipes, as well as the fact that Crissy Pronger was out. But the Flyers did Tampa a big favour -- actually, Claude Giroux did them a big favour -- in taking out Patrice Bergeron, Boston's best player hands-down.
The Bruins' power play is pathetic, and their top lines are still firing blanks. How they beat the Habs, well, that's for another time. Okay, 3 games in OT, that's how. But here's the deal. The Bruins top lines aren't playing up to snuff and that leaves it all on Timmy Thomas' shoulders. If he pulls off skate lace saves and gets his tongue in front of pucks, the Bruins could eke this one out.
But Tampa has a core of Stanley Cup Champs in Lecavallier and St. Louis, they have a bunch of good grinders in Bergenheim and Moore, and possess much more speed up front and sniper-ship in Stamkos. Plus, the Thomas effect is dulled in the fact that he faces his doppelganger in Dwayne Roloson, with his grey beard poking through his mask. The guy looks more like the team trainer than their starting goalie. But he's solid, he's a competitor, and the Lightning are on a serious roll. AND coach Guy Boucher is a psychological sports guru who has his team believing. This isn't an emotional call, it's the right call.
Habs Fan in LeafLand: Tampa Bay in 6
Update: I'm posting this after Game 1, where Tampa Bay rolled over the Bruins 5-2 in Boston. But the above-decision was made already made, I just didn't have the time to post. Tampa took a 3-0 lead to eventually win 5-2. Marc-Andre Bergeron put one past Thomas to seal the deal in the 3rd. And of course, Boston ended the game with cheap shots, Julien whined about the officiating, and the team looked pathetic as they can't lose with class. Is it the refs' faults your team takes bad penalties then can't kill them off? Is it the refs' faults your team can't score on 4 powerplay chances???? Plus Bergenheim scored his 8th of the playoffs!!! Tampa has never lost a series when they've won the first game.
WESTERN CONFERENCE FINAL
San Jose Sharks vs. Vancouver Canucks
Well, the Sharks are back in the conference finals, barely getting by the Red Wings. The Canucks make their first conference finals in 17 years when they were beaten by the eventual cup winning New York Rangers.
I've never liked the Sharks, hate Dany Heatley, think Joe Thornton's a good player but not great and Patrick Marleau is at his no-show best even if he got the series winning goal against Detroit. Plus, the Canucks have yet to still play their best hockey -- especially the Sedins -- and they have the best player in the post-season in Ryan Kesler. This one's an easy pick, but that doesn't mean it's going to be an easy series. Niemi won last year and who knows how high he can raise his play. But the guy gives out wayyyy too many rebounds, which the Canucks forwards should pounce on. Of course, I'm not a big Luongo fan either, but as long as he stays awake, he should be able to make the saves his team asks of him.
Habs Fan in LeafLand: Canucks in 6
Habs News:
Lots of talk this week about the Habs signing Alexei Yemelin, the 25yr. old defenseman and rumour has it that if they do sign him, it's almost a certainty the Habs will make good with Andrei Markov who would definitely be a valuable asset/mentor for the young, sometimes rambunctious player. That means that most likely James Wisniewski and Roman Hamrlik are goners.
But then GM Pierre Gauthier goes and signs Swiss dman Raphael Diaz -- another Marc Streit clone. At 5"11, 194 lbs. he's another small defenseman with a strong shot. Does this mean the team has given up on Yannick Weber??? Probably not. Remember Streit only broke through at 29, and Weber is 22. And he did show improvement this year and seems willing to play up front where Streit balked at the idea. Diaz had a solid World Championships, posting 4 points (3 goals, 1 assist) in 6 games.
I just read that Steve Yserman, GM of the Year most likely, was interested in Diaz. With Tampa Bay being somewhat of a Habs clone to an extent (see my earlier post in the year about how the Lightning were following the Habs lead), this could be a good signing. Let's see what else happens. Remember, we also have some decent dman prospects in Hamilton, so the Habs' Gauthier has a lot of cards to play.
I'd love to see Wisniewski back, but you know he deserves a pay raise, and with his and Hamrlik's contracts out of the way, that gives the team the dough to sign Markov and Gorges -- who should at least get something close to what the Wiz made this year (3.25 million). We have enough offensive-minded dmen on the squad now with Subban and we need Gorges' stay at home style. I do hope they re-sign Hal Gill (my how things have changed) as he's a true leader on this team and really does his job well. Look at this defense corps:
Andrei Markov
Josh Gorges
P.K. Subban
Jaroslav Spacek
Hal Gill
Yannick Weber/Raphael Diaz
Alexei Yemelin???
We know Mara's a goner. But in my view, the list above needs some grit. Hamrlik, if he takes a major pay-cut, you never know. He's solid, and if he isn't called on to play as many minutes as last year, could still be a good player for the Habs.
And remember, the Habs may make some deals, and Spacek could be a part of that equation.
Then also this week, rumour has it Jaromir Jagr is contemplating a jump over the pond back to the NHL and only wants to come to an Original 6 team. And he's been playing very well with Pleks at the World Championships (but remember, who doesn't play well with Plekanec!?). He obviously still has the skills, and maybe he's the dude to wake Scott Gomez up from his 2010-2011 slumber. But at 39, Jagr certainly wouldn't be the kind of force he once was. Could be good for a 1 year contract, and worse comes to worse they could trade him in February if it didn't work out (someone would surely take him). But knowing the more conservative Gauthier, I'd bet this is just a rumour. But a fun one at that.
THANK GOD, GOALTENDING IS NOT THE BIG ISSUE THIS YEAR. CAREY, YOU DA MAN. CAN'T WAIT TO SEE YOU HOIST THE CUP OVER YER HEAD WEARING YOUR PUCK-MARKED HABS JERSEY. Kisses. Just don't get hurt riding the bulls out west, okay?
Oh the fun to be the Montreal Canadiens GM. I wonder if he dreams about these decisions!? I would...
Thursday, April 28, 2011
2nd Round Predictions
No time to sit around... the 2nd round of the Stanley Cup Playoffs begins tonight with the Nashville Predators visiting the Vancouver Canucks. So here's my predictions. 3-5 in the opening round. Not great, so let's see if I can finish in the money for the 2nd round:
WESTERN CONFERENCE
Vancouver Canucks vs. Nashville Predators
Here's the deal. The Canucks should win. But the season series was tied 2 games apiece and we know Nashville plays hard and does well with seemingly very little. They also have a top goaltender in Pekka Rinne. Advantage in nets to Nashville, but I have to pick the 'Nucks, Canada's last great white hope to bring the Cup home.
Habs Fan in LeafLand: Canucks in 6
Detroit Red Wings vs. San Jose Sharks
Wow, this is a toughie. The Red Wings are the old guard. The Sharks have always underachieved in the postseason. But "No Show" Joe Thornton showed up in the 1st round, so could this be San Jose's year? At least to get past the Wings??? The Wings are older and battered but they've gotten a lot of rest over the past week.
Habs Fan in LeafLand: Wings in 7
EASTERN CONFERENCE
Washington Capitals vs. Tampa Bay Lightning
Two exciting teams with some of the league's top scorers. Ovechkin, Backstrom, Semin and Green (if he's ready) against Stamkos, St. Louis, Lecavallier and Gagne. I think Tampa has the edge in goaltending if anything for experience and compete-level in Roloson. But I think Washington has figured out what they need to do to win tight playoff games and the addition of Jason Arnott at the trade deadline may be the deciding factor.
Habs Fan in LeafLand: Capitals in 6
Philadelphia Flyers vs. Boston Bruins
The Bruins must be riding high. They persevered against the Habs and beat their old rivals in an emotional and extremely tight 7-game series. Now they have the chance to take care of the team that was the source of their epic meltdown in last year's playoffs so they're probably drooling at the bit.
I'm not sure how Philly can win this series with their shaky goaltending. But like we saw last year, one of those goalies could possibly go on a run. Boucher is good, but not great. Leighton helped them get to the finals last year, but Bobrovski is the guy who gave them success this past season. Who knows what Coach Laviolette is going to do, but if I were him I'd go back with Bobrovski.
Boston definitely has the edge in nets with Thomas. But the Bruins are goons, and we saw it last night in their game against Montreal with the two hits on Halpern. This is going to be a dirty, rough and tumble series, and probably the most entertaining series to watch because the Flyers don't take shit.
The Flyers have crazy scoring depth and they could pick apart the Bruins defense which is average at best, especially if Chara doesn't play at his highest level. The Bruins powerplay is power-less. Nevertheless -- it kills me to say this -- but I think the Bruins will get their revenge this year. But I want to be wrong with this one ;)
Habs Fan in LeafLand: Bruins in 7
On y va!!
WESTERN CONFERENCE
Vancouver Canucks vs. Nashville Predators
Here's the deal. The Canucks should win. But the season series was tied 2 games apiece and we know Nashville plays hard and does well with seemingly very little. They also have a top goaltender in Pekka Rinne. Advantage in nets to Nashville, but I have to pick the 'Nucks, Canada's last great white hope to bring the Cup home.
Habs Fan in LeafLand: Canucks in 6
Detroit Red Wings vs. San Jose Sharks
Wow, this is a toughie. The Red Wings are the old guard. The Sharks have always underachieved in the postseason. But "No Show" Joe Thornton showed up in the 1st round, so could this be San Jose's year? At least to get past the Wings??? The Wings are older and battered but they've gotten a lot of rest over the past week.
Habs Fan in LeafLand: Wings in 7
EASTERN CONFERENCE
Washington Capitals vs. Tampa Bay Lightning
Two exciting teams with some of the league's top scorers. Ovechkin, Backstrom, Semin and Green (if he's ready) against Stamkos, St. Louis, Lecavallier and Gagne. I think Tampa has the edge in goaltending if anything for experience and compete-level in Roloson. But I think Washington has figured out what they need to do to win tight playoff games and the addition of Jason Arnott at the trade deadline may be the deciding factor.
Habs Fan in LeafLand: Capitals in 6
Philadelphia Flyers vs. Boston Bruins
The Bruins must be riding high. They persevered against the Habs and beat their old rivals in an emotional and extremely tight 7-game series. Now they have the chance to take care of the team that was the source of their epic meltdown in last year's playoffs so they're probably drooling at the bit.
I'm not sure how Philly can win this series with their shaky goaltending. But like we saw last year, one of those goalies could possibly go on a run. Boucher is good, but not great. Leighton helped them get to the finals last year, but Bobrovski is the guy who gave them success this past season. Who knows what Coach Laviolette is going to do, but if I were him I'd go back with Bobrovski.
Boston definitely has the edge in nets with Thomas. But the Bruins are goons, and we saw it last night in their game against Montreal with the two hits on Halpern. This is going to be a dirty, rough and tumble series, and probably the most entertaining series to watch because the Flyers don't take shit.
The Flyers have crazy scoring depth and they could pick apart the Bruins defense which is average at best, especially if Chara doesn't play at his highest level. The Bruins powerplay is power-less. Nevertheless -- it kills me to say this -- but I think the Bruins will get their revenge this year. But I want to be wrong with this one ;)
Habs Fan in LeafLand: Bruins in 7
On y va!!
OT Habs' Achilles Heel
And so my friends the last siren has sounded on the Montreal Canadiens' 2010-2011 season, falling 4-3 in OT last night to lose their opening round series against the Bruins 4-3.David Krejci celebrates as he reacts to the puck hitting the twine in Game 7 last night in Boston. Price had no chance on the deflection off of Jeff Halpern's skate. Some unlucky bounces and the lack of 5-on-5 scoring did the Habs in.
Disappointment reigns large, but this Habs team has nothing to be ashamed about. They fought hard, showed a lot of courage and determination last night and in the series as a whole, and if not for a few unlucky bounces (and maybe a high stick call in the 3rd) things might have been very different.
That's how close this series was.
Boston had the magic touch in Overtime and as any veteran NHL fan/viewer knows, that's big when it comes to advancing in the playoffs. Where would the 1993 Habs have been without all of those OT wins that eventually lead to the team's last Stanley Cup!?
Teams get on a run and either find the magic or get stymied in Overtime. Back in 1986 when the Habs went to OT in Game 7 against the Hartford Whalers, my brothers didn't want to watch. Why? Because the team had been hopeless in OT the last few years in the regular season and the playoffs, and the team itself wasn't confident going to the extra frame. Thankfully Claude Lemieux broke that jinx to start a fresh, new run of OT success that eventually lead to more OT wins and a Stanley Cup that year.
For Bruins fans, they can only hope the good OT vibe continues. Now they can get excited about facing the Philadelphia Flyers to try to get payback for their epic collapse last year.
My brother mentioned after the Canadiens lost game 4 in OT that it was a bad omen. He as well as I know all too well how OT success in the playoffs makes ALL the difference. And unfortunately, the Habs lost 3 out of 4 games in OT.
That's how close this series was.
And last night's game was a good representation of this.
The Habs did a lot of good things this year and in the playoffs. But for the 2nd season in a row, the team could not ice their true team. With 2 top four dmen out in Markov and Gorges as well as their up-and-coming power-forward out in Max Pacioretty, the Habs were running on fumes so to speak.
GM Gauthier did an admirable job filling in some holes by acquiring Wisniewski and Sopel. Now he will roll up his sleeves as he has some major decisions to make moving forward, especially on the blue line. Jacques Martin did a great job getting the most from his squad. More on these items in the coming weeks.
But for now, the Habs missed a chance to renew their playoff rivalry with the Washington Capitals, who instead now draw the surprising Tampa Bay Lightning, atteam that pulled off what the Habs couldn't -- come back from a 3-2 series deficit and win Game 7 on the road. Way to go head coach Guy Boucher!!!
If you break down last night's game, it's quite clear what the difference was for the Canadiens: they dominated the special teams (killed every penalty, scored a short-handed goal, scored on the powerplay), their goalie made some huge stops, but their inability to score 5-on-5 was their downfall.
The Canadiens become a better 5-on-5 team next season and they will be better off for it. They also were whooped in the playoff circle and they need to get better in that aspect of the game. It really comes under the scope in the playoffs and a lost faceoff resulted in the series-winning goal by Horton.
C'est la vie. Thanks Montreal Canadiens for an excellent and entertaining season of hockey. I'm sorry it's over, but already can't wait until next year!!! Habs Fan in LeafLand is with you 100%!!!
AND MY 1ST ROUND PREDITIONS???
3-5 -- not that good. Mind you, I made some ballsy predictions, taking the Hawks and the Coyotes to win their respective series. But don't worry, I didn't lose any money over it ;)
Wednesday, April 27, 2011
THIS IS IT!!!
Game 7 tonight in Boston.
This is it.
For all the marbles.
Winner take all.
Who will it be???
The Habs have to be happy to have forced Game 7 and to have successfully put all the pressure back onto the Bruins' shoulders heading into Boston. Carey Price has to be happy that a soft goal wasn't the difference in the game this time.
The Bruins have to look in the mirror and wonder why they played such an undisciplined game last night!? Maybe Dr. Recchi specializes in sports psychology???? They have to be pleased that they carried the game 5-on-5, but now nerves and doubt will set in. Even Timmy Thomas appeared a bit rattled in a post-game scrum when a reporter's microphone got a bit too close to his head.
No doubt, the Bruins lose tonight, their season is a failure and some changes will come to that squad.
The Habs win tonight, they've done it again, then they will face the Washington Capitals in a rematch that I'm sure Ovechkin et al would relish.
Although it wasn't their best game, the Habs once again showed they have tremendous character and leadership. And it all starts with Captain Gionta, who scored the game winner.
Last night's game was a bit of a weird one: the referees seemed to have taken over the game especially in the 2nd period. Poor passing, missed checks, a general lack of flow and some puck fumbling by both goalies probably was the result of nervousness with both squads.
The Habs looked nervous, but came out of the gate strong only to have a sure goal by Gionta called back because the referee lost sight of the puck and blew the play dead. Okay, it happens. He lost sight of the puck and blew the whistle before the puck went in. It's the right call, if not what we wanted.
Good on the Habs to not let that get them down.
Then the Habs benefitted from the Bruins' indiscipline. A too many men penalty (refs had to call it) bled into a slashing penalty (the refs had to call that one too) and next thing you know Michael Cammellari is blasting his signature one-timer (hope we see it again tonight) past Timmy Thomas. 1-0 after the 1st period.
Inexplicably, the Habs then started the 2nd period as if they all had two left feet and a comedy of errors and not pressing the puck handler enough resulted in Seidenberg's goal early in the period. Price should have had that one, obviously as he was beat against the post under his glove arm.
1-1 and the pressure was back on the Canadiens. Price then made a terrific glove save a few minutes later when it looked like the Habs were ready to book their tee times, thus announcing to his team "not tonight."
This is how Price has grown from previous years. He lets in a bad goal, sure. But now his resolve, resiliency and focus is so strong, he just lets it go. As does Thomas. And for the rest of the game Price came up big and made some terrific saves.
Then the Habs got another 5-on-3. Lucic clocks Spacek and gets a 5 minute and game misconduct. Bye bye Milan (no word on whether he gets suspended but I highly doubt it).
A short time after, Bergeron is called on a delay of game penalty. All penalties the refs HAD to call. So Julien can rant all he wants about those penalties and the 5-on-3s, but all he has to do is blame his own team. They weren't disciplined and put their team and goaltender in trouble. AND they couldn't score on their power play chances either.
Finally Gionta scored on a rebound -- which counted -- and the Habs regained the lead, 2-1.
Canadiens come out in the 3rd like they started the 2nd. Soft on the puck and giving the Bruins wayyyyyy too much space. If not for Price, the Bruins maybe win this game. It was nerve-wracking and the game clock -- could it have moved any slower!?
Game 7 against Boston. We couldn't have asked for much more as hockey fans. 2 games in 2 nights? Does anyone have the advantage???? Guess we'll see.
THEY FINALLY DID IT!!
The Vancouver Canucks -- by the skin of their teeth -- finally got past the Chicago Blackhawks in OT last night, winning 2-1. Captain Clutch, Jonathan Toews, scored the tying goal -- short-handed -- with less than 2 minutes remaining. At that point, who didn't think the Canucks were done like dinner!? Then the Hawks got an early powerplay in OT and I'm like "That's it." But that wasn't it. The 'Nucks killed it off and then Burrows pounced on a turnover at the Chicago blueline and pounded past Crawford. 'Nucks win. 'Nucks win. What a relief!?
Now my earlier caveat comes into play: was this victory like a Stanley Cup for the Canucks??? Can they ramp up the emotional factor even higher as they move through the playoffs??? Proof point, Luongo's comments after the game, saying this was bigger than the Olympic Gold Medal game. Careful Roberto. You have a long way to go man. Because the team will have to ramp it up to be successful the rest of the way. And if they play Detroit or San Jose, it's not going to be easy.
Goaltending!? We don't need no stinking goaltending!!!
The Philadelphia Flyers pounded the Buffalo Sabres 5-2 last night to wrap up their 1st round series. Too bad Buffalo but you had your chances. It's a tribute to the Flyers' scoring depth that they even got to 7 games, let alone win the game. Because Pronger is not 100% and the goaltending has been shoddy at best. But they pulled it out. Now they wait the winner of the remaining series to see which team they'll try to beat with 3 goalies :)
This is it.
For all the marbles.
Winner take all.
Who will it be???
The Habs have to be happy to have forced Game 7 and to have successfully put all the pressure back onto the Bruins' shoulders heading into Boston. Carey Price has to be happy that a soft goal wasn't the difference in the game this time.
The Bruins have to look in the mirror and wonder why they played such an undisciplined game last night!? Maybe Dr. Recchi specializes in sports psychology???? They have to be pleased that they carried the game 5-on-5, but now nerves and doubt will set in. Even Timmy Thomas appeared a bit rattled in a post-game scrum when a reporter's microphone got a bit too close to his head.
No doubt, the Bruins lose tonight, their season is a failure and some changes will come to that squad.
The Habs win tonight, they've done it again, then they will face the Washington Capitals in a rematch that I'm sure Ovechkin et al would relish.
Although it wasn't their best game, the Habs once again showed they have tremendous character and leadership. And it all starts with Captain Gionta, who scored the game winner.
Last night's game was a bit of a weird one: the referees seemed to have taken over the game especially in the 2nd period. Poor passing, missed checks, a general lack of flow and some puck fumbling by both goalies probably was the result of nervousness with both squads.
The Habs looked nervous, but came out of the gate strong only to have a sure goal by Gionta called back because the referee lost sight of the puck and blew the play dead. Okay, it happens. He lost sight of the puck and blew the whistle before the puck went in. It's the right call, if not what we wanted.
Good on the Habs to not let that get them down.
Then the Habs benefitted from the Bruins' indiscipline. A too many men penalty (refs had to call it) bled into a slashing penalty (the refs had to call that one too) and next thing you know Michael Cammellari is blasting his signature one-timer (hope we see it again tonight) past Timmy Thomas. 1-0 after the 1st period.
Inexplicably, the Habs then started the 2nd period as if they all had two left feet and a comedy of errors and not pressing the puck handler enough resulted in Seidenberg's goal early in the period. Price should have had that one, obviously as he was beat against the post under his glove arm.
1-1 and the pressure was back on the Canadiens. Price then made a terrific glove save a few minutes later when it looked like the Habs were ready to book their tee times, thus announcing to his team "not tonight."
This is how Price has grown from previous years. He lets in a bad goal, sure. But now his resolve, resiliency and focus is so strong, he just lets it go. As does Thomas. And for the rest of the game Price came up big and made some terrific saves.
Then the Habs got another 5-on-3. Lucic clocks Spacek and gets a 5 minute and game misconduct. Bye bye Milan (no word on whether he gets suspended but I highly doubt it).
A short time after, Bergeron is called on a delay of game penalty. All penalties the refs HAD to call. So Julien can rant all he wants about those penalties and the 5-on-3s, but all he has to do is blame his own team. They weren't disciplined and put their team and goaltender in trouble. AND they couldn't score on their power play chances either.
Finally Gionta scored on a rebound -- which counted -- and the Habs regained the lead, 2-1.
Canadiens come out in the 3rd like they started the 2nd. Soft on the puck and giving the Bruins wayyyyyy too much space. If not for Price, the Bruins maybe win this game. It was nerve-wracking and the game clock -- could it have moved any slower!?
Game 7 against Boston. We couldn't have asked for much more as hockey fans. 2 games in 2 nights? Does anyone have the advantage???? Guess we'll see.
THEY FINALLY DID IT!!
The Vancouver Canucks -- by the skin of their teeth -- finally got past the Chicago Blackhawks in OT last night, winning 2-1. Captain Clutch, Jonathan Toews, scored the tying goal -- short-handed -- with less than 2 minutes remaining. At that point, who didn't think the Canucks were done like dinner!? Then the Hawks got an early powerplay in OT and I'm like "That's it." But that wasn't it. The 'Nucks killed it off and then Burrows pounced on a turnover at the Chicago blueline and pounded past Crawford. 'Nucks win. 'Nucks win. What a relief!?
Now my earlier caveat comes into play: was this victory like a Stanley Cup for the Canucks??? Can they ramp up the emotional factor even higher as they move through the playoffs??? Proof point, Luongo's comments after the game, saying this was bigger than the Olympic Gold Medal game. Careful Roberto. You have a long way to go man. Because the team will have to ramp it up to be successful the rest of the way. And if they play Detroit or San Jose, it's not going to be easy.
Goaltending!? We don't need no stinking goaltending!!!
The Philadelphia Flyers pounded the Buffalo Sabres 5-2 last night to wrap up their 1st round series. Too bad Buffalo but you had your chances. It's a tribute to the Flyers' scoring depth that they even got to 7 games, let alone win the game. Because Pronger is not 100% and the goaltending has been shoddy at best. But they pulled it out. Now they wait the winner of the remaining series to see which team they'll try to beat with 3 goalies :)
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