Well well well. Someone on the Canucks seems to have a short term memory.
In an incredibly short-sighted comment, Vancouver goalie Roberto Luongo stated that the goal Maxim Lapierre scored on Tim Thomas would have been an easy save for him. Specifically, he feels that way because he plays in the paint, while Thomas is a more aggressive goaltender.
Obviously, Luongo did not watch the play because, if he did, he would have realized that Thomas was actually in the crease. He was not five to ten feet from the net, which is apparently where Luongo thinks that Thomas plays at all times. It was just a strange bounce off of Thomas' chest that went into the net. Sometimes, these goals happen.
Next, what business does Roberto Luongo have calling out any other goalie? At last check, Thomas has given up a TOTAL of six goals in the Stanley Cup Finals. Luongo gave up eight in one game. Thomas has given up two fewer goals in five total games than he gave up in one. In fact, two of Thomas' losses in the Finals are because the Boston offense forgot to get on the plane to Vancouver. Yes, Luongo has two shutouts, but if the puck is being fired directly into the goalies chest, even Betty White could make those saves.
Then there is the side effect of calling out Tim Thomas only makes him angry. And Vancouver won't like Thomas when he's angry. At this point in time, Thomas is making a case to be the MVP of the playoffs, regardless of whether or not the Bruins win. Now that he's been called out? All bets are off. Thomas has already taken his game to another level in the finals, but he will bring it for the next two games.
Yes, the Canucks have a 3-2 lead in the series, but this will be going back to Vancouver. Thomas has been called out by an inferior netminder who suddenly thinks that he's great again. We'll see how Luongo fares back in Boston.
In the meantime, shut up Roberto Luongo. You may have doomed the Canucks to another year without the Cup.
Showing posts with label hockey. Show all posts
Showing posts with label hockey. Show all posts
Saturday, June 11, 2011
Sunday, May 15, 2011
On Derek Boogaard and CTE
On Friday, New York Rangers winger and enforcer Derek Boogaard was found not breathing in his Minnesota apartment at 6:15 pm. When paramedics arrived, Boogaard was pronounced dead at the scene. As of this point in time, foul play is not suspected, although it is expected to take two weeks for the autopsy to come back.
Boogaard's sudden death at the age of 27 came while he was getting back into shape after a concussion and a shoulder injury sustained during a fight. At a point in time where the NHL is attempting to limit shots to the head and promote more awareness of concussion symptoms, it would be interesting to see he Boogaard was suffering from chronic traumatic encephalopathy, or CTE. Bob Probert, an enforcer who died back in July, suffered from CTE when he died of a heart attack at age 45. Reggie Fleming, another enforcer from back in the 1960's, also had CTE.
CTE, for those who are unaware, is a progressive degenerative disease that is found in individuals who have been subject to multiple concussions and other forms of head injury. CTE is most typically found in people that played football and ice hockey, or were wrestlers or boxers. Symptoms include signs of dementia, such as memory loss, aggression, confusion, and depression - all of which may appear within months of the head trauma, or many years later.
If Boogaard is proven to have suffered from CTE at the time of his death, this leads to many interesting questions. While hockey is inherently a violent sport, there are ways to limit the possibility of sustaining a concussion. The best way would be to make a mouthguard mandatory. In fact, the concept that a custom fitted mouthguard would help to prevent concussions has been around since 1964. A study was conducted over three years that focused on high school athletes with a history of concussions, with these players playing either in college or beyond. The study showed that while the 31 players chosen had approximately 50 concussions prior to wearing the mouthguards, they had only three total while wearing them. Numerous other studies have come to the same conclusion.
While there is no proof at present that Boogaard suffered from CTE, it would not be a surprise. Given the role he played on the teams he played for, he fit the classic profile of someone who would be likely to acquire this disease. Despite this, his family is trying to separate concussions from the reason Boogaard died, until this can be ascertained.
Should Boogaard have been suffering from CTE, and his cause of death was related to it, will this be the stimulus required to get professional sports to take a serious look at concussions? While they pay a lot of lip service to them presently, very little is actually being done to prevent them from occurring. It's pathetic that it may take the death of a player during his career to kick these leagues into action.
Boogaard's sudden death at the age of 27 came while he was getting back into shape after a concussion and a shoulder injury sustained during a fight. At a point in time where the NHL is attempting to limit shots to the head and promote more awareness of concussion symptoms, it would be interesting to see he Boogaard was suffering from chronic traumatic encephalopathy, or CTE. Bob Probert, an enforcer who died back in July, suffered from CTE when he died of a heart attack at age 45. Reggie Fleming, another enforcer from back in the 1960's, also had CTE.
CTE, for those who are unaware, is a progressive degenerative disease that is found in individuals who have been subject to multiple concussions and other forms of head injury. CTE is most typically found in people that played football and ice hockey, or were wrestlers or boxers. Symptoms include signs of dementia, such as memory loss, aggression, confusion, and depression - all of which may appear within months of the head trauma, or many years later.
If Boogaard is proven to have suffered from CTE at the time of his death, this leads to many interesting questions. While hockey is inherently a violent sport, there are ways to limit the possibility of sustaining a concussion. The best way would be to make a mouthguard mandatory. In fact, the concept that a custom fitted mouthguard would help to prevent concussions has been around since 1964. A study was conducted over three years that focused on high school athletes with a history of concussions, with these players playing either in college or beyond. The study showed that while the 31 players chosen had approximately 50 concussions prior to wearing the mouthguards, they had only three total while wearing them. Numerous other studies have come to the same conclusion.
While there is no proof at present that Boogaard suffered from CTE, it would not be a surprise. Given the role he played on the teams he played for, he fit the classic profile of someone who would be likely to acquire this disease. Despite this, his family is trying to separate concussions from the reason Boogaard died, until this can be ascertained.
Should Boogaard have been suffering from CTE, and his cause of death was related to it, will this be the stimulus required to get professional sports to take a serious look at concussions? While they pay a lot of lip service to them presently, very little is actually being done to prevent them from occurring. It's pathetic that it may take the death of a player during his career to kick these leagues into action.
Wednesday, May 11, 2011
The Red Wings Comeback
Down 3-0 in their series to the Sharks, conventional wisdom would have said that the Red Wings were doomed. Yet, what was lost in the Sharks' fast start to the series was that all of the games had been decided by one goal. In fact, prior to the Red Wings winning Game 6 by a score of 3-1, every game in the series had been decided by one goal, with two of the games going to overtime. Any of the games in this series could have gone to either team.
What the Red Wings are doing is not unprecedented. This is the eighth time in the history of the Stanley Cup playoffs that a team down 3-0 in the series has come back to force Game 7. In fact, this is the third time this has occurred in the past calendar year, with the Flyers doing so last year against the Bruins and the Black Hawks doing so against the Canucks this year.
Coming back from down 3-0 to win a series is considered a rare accomplishment, mainly because it has only happened once in any other American sport. However, in hockey, this has occurred in three of the previous seven times that a game seven was forced by the rallying opponent. Prior to the Flyers last year, the New York Islanders and the Toronto Maple Leafs did so in 1975 and 1942, respectively.
While getting to this point is difficult in the NHL (this is only the eighth time in the 163 times a team trailed 3-0 in a series that a Game 7 was forced) these games really can go either way. Should Detroit win, it will be an exact 50-50 proposition for the team making the comeback to win out.
The Sharks do not exactly have a glowing record when it comes to playoff hockey either. They have consistently been a disappointment, going into the playoffs as a high seed, yet being upset early. While it appeared as though they may have exorcised the demons of playoffs past, the whispers and images of such disappointments have to be in their heads. If Detroit jumps out to a fast start in Game Seven, the Sharks are done.
This has been a great comeback by an experienced hockey team that knows how to win. Vancouver had better hope the Red Wings somehow lose in Game Seven.
What the Red Wings are doing is not unprecedented. This is the eighth time in the history of the Stanley Cup playoffs that a team down 3-0 in the series has come back to force Game 7. In fact, this is the third time this has occurred in the past calendar year, with the Flyers doing so last year against the Bruins and the Black Hawks doing so against the Canucks this year.
Coming back from down 3-0 to win a series is considered a rare accomplishment, mainly because it has only happened once in any other American sport. However, in hockey, this has occurred in three of the previous seven times that a game seven was forced by the rallying opponent. Prior to the Flyers last year, the New York Islanders and the Toronto Maple Leafs did so in 1975 and 1942, respectively.
While getting to this point is difficult in the NHL (this is only the eighth time in the 163 times a team trailed 3-0 in a series that a Game 7 was forced) these games really can go either way. Should Detroit win, it will be an exact 50-50 proposition for the team making the comeback to win out.
The Sharks do not exactly have a glowing record when it comes to playoff hockey either. They have consistently been a disappointment, going into the playoffs as a high seed, yet being upset early. While it appeared as though they may have exorcised the demons of playoffs past, the whispers and images of such disappointments have to be in their heads. If Detroit jumps out to a fast start in Game Seven, the Sharks are done.
This has been a great comeback by an experienced hockey team that knows how to win. Vancouver had better hope the Red Wings somehow lose in Game Seven.
Tuesday, May 10, 2011
Sean Avery's Stand
When one thinks of Sean Avery, certain images come to mind. Agitator. Instigator. Pest. He was once suspended by the NHL back in December of 2008 for talking about how other NHL players were dating his ex's, referring to them as 'sloppy seconds'. He has led the NHL in penalty minutes twice, and has been called the most hated player in the NHL by his opponents.
Yet, as controversial as Avery may be on the ice, he has made an even bigger splash off the ice recently. Avery has recently become one of the few pro athletes to support gay marriage, having recorded a video in support of the New Yorkers for Marriage Equality campaign. In the video, Avery appears in a white shirt and glasses, saying "I'm Sean Avery and I'm a New Yorker for marriage equality. I treat everyone the way I expect to be treated and that applies to marriage." There are also two clips of Avery in Rangers gear, during the video.
Naturally, this has met with some backlash. Agent Todd Reynolds, vice-president of the Uptown Hockey management group, tweeted that he was "very sad to read Sean Avery's misguided support of same-gender "marriage". Legal or not, it will always be wrong." He then went on to say that while his views have nothing to do with any perceived bigotry or hatred, that this is his personal viewpoint.
Views like the ones voiced by Reynolds probably have a lot to do with why there has yet to be an openly gay player in any of the four major American sports. Several players have come out after their playing careers, notably John Amaechi and Esera Tuaolo, but even then this is a rarity. This appears to be more due to the locker room stigma of being labelled as homosexual than anything else, as statistics would lead one to believe that there are more gay athletes.
This is not a political or social blog, and it is not intended to be. This is a sports blog, pure and simple. Personal views on the topic of gay marriage have nothing to do with this article, or why this topic was selected. Regardless of how one feels about such things, Sean Avery is to be commended for taking a stand for something, regardless of how controversial it is, that he believes in. Children grow up idolizing athletes, musicians, and movie stars, and more often that not, these people behave in such a way so as to make their fans cringe at their behavior. Sean Avery, by making this stand, has proven that he is worthy of being such a role model for anyone.
Yet, as controversial as Avery may be on the ice, he has made an even bigger splash off the ice recently. Avery has recently become one of the few pro athletes to support gay marriage, having recorded a video in support of the New Yorkers for Marriage Equality campaign. In the video, Avery appears in a white shirt and glasses, saying "I'm Sean Avery and I'm a New Yorker for marriage equality. I treat everyone the way I expect to be treated and that applies to marriage." There are also two clips of Avery in Rangers gear, during the video.
Naturally, this has met with some backlash. Agent Todd Reynolds, vice-president of the Uptown Hockey management group, tweeted that he was "very sad to read Sean Avery's misguided support of same-gender "marriage". Legal or not, it will always be wrong." He then went on to say that while his views have nothing to do with any perceived bigotry or hatred, that this is his personal viewpoint.
Views like the ones voiced by Reynolds probably have a lot to do with why there has yet to be an openly gay player in any of the four major American sports. Several players have come out after their playing careers, notably John Amaechi and Esera Tuaolo, but even then this is a rarity. This appears to be more due to the locker room stigma of being labelled as homosexual than anything else, as statistics would lead one to believe that there are more gay athletes.
This is not a political or social blog, and it is not intended to be. This is a sports blog, pure and simple. Personal views on the topic of gay marriage have nothing to do with this article, or why this topic was selected. Regardless of how one feels about such things, Sean Avery is to be commended for taking a stand for something, regardless of how controversial it is, that he believes in. Children grow up idolizing athletes, musicians, and movie stars, and more often that not, these people behave in such a way so as to make their fans cringe at their behavior. Sean Avery, by making this stand, has proven that he is worthy of being such a role model for anyone.
Friday, May 6, 2011
Phoenix Coyotes - Financial Sinkhole
The NHL has decided to exercise the option they had to take $25million from the city of Glendale, Arizona, in order to cover losses accrued over the season by the Phoenix Coyotes. This money was placed in escrow by the city after the NHL insisted they do so, in the event that they were unable to sell the team after purchasing it in 2009.
When the NHL purchased the Coyotes, the team was bankrupt. The plan was to find ownership that would keep the team in Arizona. However, the NHL is ignoring one vital problem here, namely that no one in Arizona cares about hockey. This past season, the Coyotes ranked next to last in attendance, just ahead of the New York Islanders - a team so terrible that the odor of New Jersey was preferable. Keep in mind, this season the Coyotes finished with 99 points and a playoff berth.
The NHL needs to get it's collective head out of the sand and realize that the Coyotes need to be moved. Ironically, the best place to put the team is where they moved from - Winnipeg. The fans in Winnipeg desperately wanted to keep the team in Canada, and several attempts to sell the team to local entities failed.
The then Winnipeg Jets originally moved to Glendale because of financial issues. Ironic that the Coyotes may move back there for the same reason.
When the NHL purchased the Coyotes, the team was bankrupt. The plan was to find ownership that would keep the team in Arizona. However, the NHL is ignoring one vital problem here, namely that no one in Arizona cares about hockey. This past season, the Coyotes ranked next to last in attendance, just ahead of the New York Islanders - a team so terrible that the odor of New Jersey was preferable. Keep in mind, this season the Coyotes finished with 99 points and a playoff berth.
The NHL needs to get it's collective head out of the sand and realize that the Coyotes need to be moved. Ironically, the best place to put the team is where they moved from - Winnipeg. The fans in Winnipeg desperately wanted to keep the team in Canada, and several attempts to sell the team to local entities failed.
The then Winnipeg Jets originally moved to Glendale because of financial issues. Ironic that the Coyotes may move back there for the same reason.
Thursday, May 5, 2011
The Bruins Playoffs
All season, the Bruins were a team that seemed to shrink away from adversity. They had problems with teams that would take the game to them. They would follow extended winning streaks with losing streaks. Their coach, Claude Julien, looked completely clueless behind the bench, appearing as more of a thinner Alfred Hitchcock clone than an NHL coach. The powerplay was anemic at it's best.
This continued into the playoffs against Montreal. The Bruins lost the first two games in Boston, with Montreal goalie Carey Price looking dominant. The Bruins then won Game 3, but promptly fell behind 3-1 in Game 4. Then Claude Julien did something completely out of character - he did something. He called a timeout, and just told his team to look at the scoreboard. It worked. The Bruins would go on to win the game.
Then came Game 7 of the series. History was against the Bruins here, as they had not won a Game 7 in years. Tim Thomas had never won a game 7. Zdeno Chara had never won a game 7. Julien had won one - against the Bruins while he was the coach of the Canadiens, so that was roughly the equivalent of someone beating up Helen Keller. Montreal seemed ready.
The game would go into overtime, and it felt like the Bruins would be done. Given their past history, it would seem that they would tighten up, and inevitably lose the game. Then something strange happened for the Bruins - they won. Suddenly, all sorts of demons were slain.
This carried over into Game 1 of the Flyers series. Both teams were fresh off Game 7 victories, so they both should have been ready. The Bruins went into Philadelphia, and steamrolled the Flyers with a 7-3 victory. In Game 2, the Flyers jumped out to a quick 2-0 lead, and it became possibly that the Bruins victory was an aberration. The Bruins would fight back, and force overtime due to the unbelievable play of Tim Thomas, who stole that game for them. Then came Game 3, where the seeds of last year were attempted to be placed into the minds of the Bruins players. Their response - a dominating 5-1 victory.
These Bruins are different than they had been. They are playing with confidence and a swagger. They are not backing down, and are actually initiating the play instead of reacting to it. Julien has always been more of a reactive, defensive minded coach, but the reins appear to have been loosened on the offense. Game 4 in Montreal was the turning point, and it may actually go a long way.
While they may not win the Stanley Cup this year, they are definitely playing like a contender, moreso than in years past. A collapse such as what happened in the playoffs last year would be a total shock, given how well the Bruins have performed.
This continued into the playoffs against Montreal. The Bruins lost the first two games in Boston, with Montreal goalie Carey Price looking dominant. The Bruins then won Game 3, but promptly fell behind 3-1 in Game 4. Then Claude Julien did something completely out of character - he did something. He called a timeout, and just told his team to look at the scoreboard. It worked. The Bruins would go on to win the game.
Then came Game 7 of the series. History was against the Bruins here, as they had not won a Game 7 in years. Tim Thomas had never won a game 7. Zdeno Chara had never won a game 7. Julien had won one - against the Bruins while he was the coach of the Canadiens, so that was roughly the equivalent of someone beating up Helen Keller. Montreal seemed ready.
The game would go into overtime, and it felt like the Bruins would be done. Given their past history, it would seem that they would tighten up, and inevitably lose the game. Then something strange happened for the Bruins - they won. Suddenly, all sorts of demons were slain.
This carried over into Game 1 of the Flyers series. Both teams were fresh off Game 7 victories, so they both should have been ready. The Bruins went into Philadelphia, and steamrolled the Flyers with a 7-3 victory. In Game 2, the Flyers jumped out to a quick 2-0 lead, and it became possibly that the Bruins victory was an aberration. The Bruins would fight back, and force overtime due to the unbelievable play of Tim Thomas, who stole that game for them. Then came Game 3, where the seeds of last year were attempted to be placed into the minds of the Bruins players. Their response - a dominating 5-1 victory.
These Bruins are different than they had been. They are playing with confidence and a swagger. They are not backing down, and are actually initiating the play instead of reacting to it. Julien has always been more of a reactive, defensive minded coach, but the reins appear to have been loosened on the offense. Game 4 in Montreal was the turning point, and it may actually go a long way.
While they may not win the Stanley Cup this year, they are definitely playing like a contender, moreso than in years past. A collapse such as what happened in the playoffs last year would be a total shock, given how well the Bruins have performed.
Wednesday, April 27, 2011
The Bruins Power Play
The Achilles heel for the Boston Bruins this season has been it's power play. Over the regular season, they only converted on 16.2% of power play opportunities, which ranked 20th in the NHL. Of the teams that made the playoffs, the Bruins rank 13th, ahead of the Nashville Predators, Pittsburgh Penguins, and Los Angeles Kings.
At the trade deadline, the Bruins attempted to solve this problem by bringing in Tomas Kaberle. However, while Kaberle helps, he does not solve the problem at hand. The reason why the Bruins have not succeeded on the power play has nothing to do with the defensemen connecting on their passes - it is because they do not play in front of the net.
Teams that tend to be successful on the power play have players that are not afraid to screen the opposing goaltender, look for rebounds, and attempt to tip shots from the point. The bruins have one person that does that with any consistency - 43 year old Mark Recchi. Contrast this with a team like the Montreal Canadiens who thrive on the power play, and you will notice that they swarm the net. They always have bodies down in front of the goalie.
This further illustrates itself in this series. The Bruins have yet to score a power play goal, going 0-18 in the series thus far. Montreal, meanwhile, is 4-23. While this is not a great percentage, the four goal advantage can be huge. Case in point, the Canadiens won game 6 2-1 with two power play goals.
In order for Boston to improve, they need to get bodies in front of the goaltender. However, they have yet to show a desire to do so all season. Do not expect anything to change tonight.
At the trade deadline, the Bruins attempted to solve this problem by bringing in Tomas Kaberle. However, while Kaberle helps, he does not solve the problem at hand. The reason why the Bruins have not succeeded on the power play has nothing to do with the defensemen connecting on their passes - it is because they do not play in front of the net.
Teams that tend to be successful on the power play have players that are not afraid to screen the opposing goaltender, look for rebounds, and attempt to tip shots from the point. The bruins have one person that does that with any consistency - 43 year old Mark Recchi. Contrast this with a team like the Montreal Canadiens who thrive on the power play, and you will notice that they swarm the net. They always have bodies down in front of the goalie.
This further illustrates itself in this series. The Bruins have yet to score a power play goal, going 0-18 in the series thus far. Montreal, meanwhile, is 4-23. While this is not a great percentage, the four goal advantage can be huge. Case in point, the Canadiens won game 6 2-1 with two power play goals.
In order for Boston to improve, they need to get bodies in front of the goaltender. However, they have yet to show a desire to do so all season. Do not expect anything to change tonight.
Saturday, April 23, 2011
Andrew Ference's $2500 Finger
For what he termed an 'inadvertant bird' after scoring a goal in Game 4 against the Montreal Canadiens, yesterday Boston Bruins defenseman Andrew Ference was fined $2500 by the NHL. Ference claimed that his glove got stuck, and that it was nothing more than an equipment malfunction. And the fact that he was looking right at the Montreal crowd while this happened was a bit of a coincidence, right?
Equipment and wardrobe malfunctions have been blamed for touchy situations since the infamous Janet Jackson Super Bowl halftime show. While her breast was briefly exposed, the only people that either wanted to see it or where excited by it happened to be her plastic surgeons. Whorish tops do not randomly rip on their own. And hockey gloves do not randomly have the middle finger get stuck, especially in situations such as that.
Now, looking at the crowd that received the 'accidental' middle finger, there is a potential reason for it. The Montreal crowd needs to have the team announcer list off the American players on the roster so that they do not boo the American National Anthem. These fans are the ones that called 911 to get Zdeno Chara arrested after putting a solid hit on Max Pacioretty. These fans are causing the Bruins to stay in Lake Placid, NY, and bus to Montreal for the games, because they would otherwise make it impossible for them to do anything outside of the hotel. These fans regard the Bruins as a gang of brutish thugs who have no business playing hockey, yet cheer for a team of diving pansies who react as though they got shot if an opponent so much as looks at them wrong. If any fanbase deserves the middle finger, it is the Canadiens fans.
So, good for you Andrew Ference. That may be the best $2500 ever spent.
Equipment and wardrobe malfunctions have been blamed for touchy situations since the infamous Janet Jackson Super Bowl halftime show. While her breast was briefly exposed, the only people that either wanted to see it or where excited by it happened to be her plastic surgeons. Whorish tops do not randomly rip on their own. And hockey gloves do not randomly have the middle finger get stuck, especially in situations such as that.
Now, looking at the crowd that received the 'accidental' middle finger, there is a potential reason for it. The Montreal crowd needs to have the team announcer list off the American players on the roster so that they do not boo the American National Anthem. These fans are the ones that called 911 to get Zdeno Chara arrested after putting a solid hit on Max Pacioretty. These fans are causing the Bruins to stay in Lake Placid, NY, and bus to Montreal for the games, because they would otherwise make it impossible for them to do anything outside of the hotel. These fans regard the Bruins as a gang of brutish thugs who have no business playing hockey, yet cheer for a team of diving pansies who react as though they got shot if an opponent so much as looks at them wrong. If any fanbase deserves the middle finger, it is the Canadiens fans.
So, good for you Andrew Ference. That may be the best $2500 ever spent.
Wednesday, April 13, 2011
NHL Playoffs Round One Preview
As the NHL playoffs are about to get underway, it's time for some Round One analysis. Broken down by conference:
East
Washington Capitals (1) v. New York Rangers (8): The Rangers had to fight to get into the playoffs, while the Capitals were able to rest Alexander Ovechkin for the majority of their last ten games. Aside from goaltending, the Capitals are greatly superior to the Rangers. However, all it takes is a hot goalie to eliminate a team from the playoffs, and the Capitals did have that happen to them last year. Plus, when on, Henrik Lundqvist is one of the best in the game. While this series will be more difficult that some would think, expect the Capitals to learn from their experience last season. Capitals in 6.
Philadelphia Flyers (2) v. Buffalo Sabres (7): The Sabres were one of the hottest teams heading into the playoffs, while the Flyers went cold at the end of the regular season, although one could argue that they were attempting to set up the matchups for later in the playoffs. The risk of that strategy involves running into Ryan Miller, who is more than capable of stealing a playoff series on his own. Meanwhile, the Flyers have the same problem they have had since the days of Ron Hextall - goaltending. Last year, they made their run with journeymen and backups in goal. Don't expect a repeat this year if Sergei Bobrovsky implodes. While the Flyers are more talented, Miller will keep the Sabres in this one, and might be the difference. Sabres in 7.
Boston Bruins (3) v. Montreal Canadiens (6): This may be one of the best playoff matchups in round one, just because of how much these teams hate one another. Factor in the Zdeno Chara hit, and this series could get nasty. The Bruins combination of size, skill, toughness, and goaltending has been great for most of the year. Tim Thomas is one of the favorites for the Vezina, and Nathan Horton has rediscovered his goal scoring touch recently. Montreal is going to have to hope to dominate on special teams, and draw the Bruins into dumb penalties to have a chance in this series. Expect the Bruins not to fall into that trap. Bruins in 5.
Tampa Bay Lightning (4) v. Pittsburgh Penguins (5): Even though the Penguins will be without Sidney Crosby and Evegni Malkin, they have played very well down the stretch. Despite that, the Lightning have a definite edge in scoring with Vincent Lecavalier, Steven Stamkos, and Martin St. Louis. Like Montreal, they dominate on the power play, and will need to draw the Penguins into penalties. However, the Penguins have a big advantage in net, with Marc-Andre Fleury against Dwayne Roloson. In fact, Mike Smith may actually be the better option for Tampa. This will be another matchup where goalies make the difference. Pittsburgh in 6.
West
Vancouver Canucks (1) v. Chicago Blackhawks (8): Vancouver has been one of the elite teams in the NHL all season. Boasting the Super Twins, Daniel and Henrik Sedin, they made opposing defenses seem pathetic. Meanwhile, the Blackhawks had to claw to get back into the playoffs to defend last year's championship. This year, the Hawks do not bear any resemblance to last season's team, as they needed to trade off quite a large chunk of the team due to cap issues. While the Blackhawks are still dangerous, they simply do not have the firepower to match up with Vancouver. Canucks in 5.
San Jose Sharks (2) v. Los Angeles Kings (7): Every year, the Sharks go into the playoffs looking like a contender. Seemingly every year, they get bounced in the first round. This year, Joe Thornton, Patrick Marleua, and Dany Heatley are back in the top half of the bracket. Once again, they face off against a talented team in Los Angeles, which boasts a good young squad. While their playoff experience says the Sharks should win this, they just do not have the toughness needed to prevail in the playoffs. This year will not be any different. Kings in 6.
Detroit Red Wings (3) v. Phoenix Coyotes (6): These two teams are essentially even on offense, despite the Red Wings having the better known cast of players. As such, this matchup should come down to special teams, goaltending, and experience. The Coyotes have an advantage on the power play, and a superior goaltender in Ilya Bryzgalov. However, the Red Wings are always in the playoffs, are battle tested, and just know how to win. For them, the regular season is just an extended preseason before the real games start. Experience will previal in this series, but it will be a good one to watch. Red Wings in 6.
Anaheim Ducks (4) v. Nashville Predators (5): This is going to be a matchup of good defense against a good offense. Corey Perry scored 50 goals this year, and teams up with Ryan Getzlaf, Teemu Selanne, Bobby Ryan and Lubomir Visnovsky to form one of the best scoring teams in the playoffs. Pekka Rinne will need to be unbelievable for the Predators to win this series, and while he is capable of stealing a couple of games, the Ducks are just too good. Ducks in 6.
East
Washington Capitals (1) v. New York Rangers (8): The Rangers had to fight to get into the playoffs, while the Capitals were able to rest Alexander Ovechkin for the majority of their last ten games. Aside from goaltending, the Capitals are greatly superior to the Rangers. However, all it takes is a hot goalie to eliminate a team from the playoffs, and the Capitals did have that happen to them last year. Plus, when on, Henrik Lundqvist is one of the best in the game. While this series will be more difficult that some would think, expect the Capitals to learn from their experience last season. Capitals in 6.
Philadelphia Flyers (2) v. Buffalo Sabres (7): The Sabres were one of the hottest teams heading into the playoffs, while the Flyers went cold at the end of the regular season, although one could argue that they were attempting to set up the matchups for later in the playoffs. The risk of that strategy involves running into Ryan Miller, who is more than capable of stealing a playoff series on his own. Meanwhile, the Flyers have the same problem they have had since the days of Ron Hextall - goaltending. Last year, they made their run with journeymen and backups in goal. Don't expect a repeat this year if Sergei Bobrovsky implodes. While the Flyers are more talented, Miller will keep the Sabres in this one, and might be the difference. Sabres in 7.
Boston Bruins (3) v. Montreal Canadiens (6): This may be one of the best playoff matchups in round one, just because of how much these teams hate one another. Factor in the Zdeno Chara hit, and this series could get nasty. The Bruins combination of size, skill, toughness, and goaltending has been great for most of the year. Tim Thomas is one of the favorites for the Vezina, and Nathan Horton has rediscovered his goal scoring touch recently. Montreal is going to have to hope to dominate on special teams, and draw the Bruins into dumb penalties to have a chance in this series. Expect the Bruins not to fall into that trap. Bruins in 5.
Tampa Bay Lightning (4) v. Pittsburgh Penguins (5): Even though the Penguins will be without Sidney Crosby and Evegni Malkin, they have played very well down the stretch. Despite that, the Lightning have a definite edge in scoring with Vincent Lecavalier, Steven Stamkos, and Martin St. Louis. Like Montreal, they dominate on the power play, and will need to draw the Penguins into penalties. However, the Penguins have a big advantage in net, with Marc-Andre Fleury against Dwayne Roloson. In fact, Mike Smith may actually be the better option for Tampa. This will be another matchup where goalies make the difference. Pittsburgh in 6.
West
Vancouver Canucks (1) v. Chicago Blackhawks (8): Vancouver has been one of the elite teams in the NHL all season. Boasting the Super Twins, Daniel and Henrik Sedin, they made opposing defenses seem pathetic. Meanwhile, the Blackhawks had to claw to get back into the playoffs to defend last year's championship. This year, the Hawks do not bear any resemblance to last season's team, as they needed to trade off quite a large chunk of the team due to cap issues. While the Blackhawks are still dangerous, they simply do not have the firepower to match up with Vancouver. Canucks in 5.
San Jose Sharks (2) v. Los Angeles Kings (7): Every year, the Sharks go into the playoffs looking like a contender. Seemingly every year, they get bounced in the first round. This year, Joe Thornton, Patrick Marleua, and Dany Heatley are back in the top half of the bracket. Once again, they face off against a talented team in Los Angeles, which boasts a good young squad. While their playoff experience says the Sharks should win this, they just do not have the toughness needed to prevail in the playoffs. This year will not be any different. Kings in 6.
Detroit Red Wings (3) v. Phoenix Coyotes (6): These two teams are essentially even on offense, despite the Red Wings having the better known cast of players. As such, this matchup should come down to special teams, goaltending, and experience. The Coyotes have an advantage on the power play, and a superior goaltender in Ilya Bryzgalov. However, the Red Wings are always in the playoffs, are battle tested, and just know how to win. For them, the regular season is just an extended preseason before the real games start. Experience will previal in this series, but it will be a good one to watch. Red Wings in 6.
Anaheim Ducks (4) v. Nashville Predators (5): This is going to be a matchup of good defense against a good offense. Corey Perry scored 50 goals this year, and teams up with Ryan Getzlaf, Teemu Selanne, Bobby Ryan and Lubomir Visnovsky to form one of the best scoring teams in the playoffs. Pekka Rinne will need to be unbelievable for the Predators to win this series, and while he is capable of stealing a couple of games, the Ducks are just too good. Ducks in 6.
Thursday, March 31, 2011
Major League Baseball - Model Sports Organization???
For years, Major League Baseball has been criticized, and rightly so, for it's inability to get out of it's own way. They have had a multitude of labor stoppages over the past 40 years (8, to be exact) - the most infamous being the one in 1994 that cancelled the World Series. Baseball took the brunt of the wrath spewed forth by opportunistic congressmen when the steroids scandal erupted thanks to Jose Canseco's book. There is the enduring image highlighting the general ineptitude of baseball, with Bud Selig looking confused as the All-Star Game ended in a tie.
And yet, suddenly baseball appears to be ahead of the other sports in terms of handling their issues. Since 2002, there has been labor peace. Even though their collective bargaining agreement is up after this year, there are no threats of a lockout, unlike the NFL and the NBA. In fact, both Selig and the player's union are optimistic that a new CBA will be agreed upon in the near future.
Despite the bad rap that the MLB gets for steroids and performance enhancing drugs, the truth is that baseball not only has the strictest penalties for using such substances, but they appear to have fewer players using them. It is not uncommon to hear that a football player got suspended for PEDs, yet no one really seems to care. Meanwhile, if a baseball player gets caught, it's a travesty and an affront to everything that society holds sacred. Little bit of a double standard there, and a completely undeserved one.
And now, the MLB finds itself on the forefront of the concussion issue. Although concussions are a much bigger problem in the NFL and NHL, baseball has created a new seven day disabled list strictly for players who have gotten a concussion. This way, rather than lose a player for 15 days when they could be ready to play in a week, the team can get that player back when he is healthy. With all the talk of the NFL trying to force an 18 game schedule down the player's throats, why has this concept not been brought up in their meetings? Why has the NHL not adopted something like this, so that players that will be gone for a game or two do not take up a roster spot?
Bud Selig and Major League Baseball make for easy targets when one looks to rip a sports organization for mismanagement. However, baseball actually has it's act together. Shocking, is it not?
And yet, suddenly baseball appears to be ahead of the other sports in terms of handling their issues. Since 2002, there has been labor peace. Even though their collective bargaining agreement is up after this year, there are no threats of a lockout, unlike the NFL and the NBA. In fact, both Selig and the player's union are optimistic that a new CBA will be agreed upon in the near future.
Despite the bad rap that the MLB gets for steroids and performance enhancing drugs, the truth is that baseball not only has the strictest penalties for using such substances, but they appear to have fewer players using them. It is not uncommon to hear that a football player got suspended for PEDs, yet no one really seems to care. Meanwhile, if a baseball player gets caught, it's a travesty and an affront to everything that society holds sacred. Little bit of a double standard there, and a completely undeserved one.
And now, the MLB finds itself on the forefront of the concussion issue. Although concussions are a much bigger problem in the NFL and NHL, baseball has created a new seven day disabled list strictly for players who have gotten a concussion. This way, rather than lose a player for 15 days when they could be ready to play in a week, the team can get that player back when he is healthy. With all the talk of the NFL trying to force an 18 game schedule down the player's throats, why has this concept not been brought up in their meetings? Why has the NHL not adopted something like this, so that players that will be gone for a game or two do not take up a roster spot?
Bud Selig and Major League Baseball make for easy targets when one looks to rip a sports organization for mismanagement. However, baseball actually has it's act together. Shocking, is it not?
Tuesday, March 29, 2011
Make The Visor Mandatory In The NHL
On March 16th, Manny Malhotra of the Vancouver Canucks was struck in the left eye when a pass deflected off the stick of Colorado Avalanche defenseman Erik Johnson. Malhotra, who wears a helmet without a safety visor, underwent surgery later that night. However, he may still lose his eye and his vision, and is scheduled to undergo a second surgery tomorrow in an attempt to save both.
Had Malhotra's helmet had the visor, he would not be undergoing these surgeries, and would still be on the ice. The NHL has thought about mandating visors before, grandfathering in players that did not wish to wear them who happen to already be in the NHL. Players in the minor leagues would be made to go with the visor immediately. Incidents such as this prove that they should step up their efforts to mandate the visor.
There was a time when goalies did not wear masks in net, considering such an idea as cowardly. In fact, Jacques Plante, the inventor and first player to wear a goalie mask back in 1959, was considered by his peers to be a wimp. Despite this, the mask caught on, and the last goalie to play without a mask retired in 1974. However, there is not an actual rule in the NHL rulebook requiring a goalie to wear a mask.
Helmets, on the other hand, were made mandatory starting with the draft class in 1979, over fifty years after they were originally introduced. In 1927, Barney Stanley, a former hockey player, presented the NHL with a prototype of a protective helmet. The first player to actually wear the helmet was George Owen in 1928-29. Although a few players would wear helmets, most notably Eddie Shore, most players refused, regarding such devices as cowardly.
This changed in 1968, when Bill Masterson died after striking his head on the ice. Masterson was hit by two players, striking his head hard enough on the ice to cause blood to pour out of his nose and ears. He was rushed to the hospital, where four doctors tried for thirty hours to save him before he died from a 'massive brain injury'. By the time the NHL made the helmet mandatory for all new players, roughly 70% of the league was already wearing them.
Hopefully, it does not take Malhotra to lose his vision for the NHL to make the visor mandatory. This needs to be done immediately so that such an incident does not occur again.
Had Malhotra's helmet had the visor, he would not be undergoing these surgeries, and would still be on the ice. The NHL has thought about mandating visors before, grandfathering in players that did not wish to wear them who happen to already be in the NHL. Players in the minor leagues would be made to go with the visor immediately. Incidents such as this prove that they should step up their efforts to mandate the visor.
There was a time when goalies did not wear masks in net, considering such an idea as cowardly. In fact, Jacques Plante, the inventor and first player to wear a goalie mask back in 1959, was considered by his peers to be a wimp. Despite this, the mask caught on, and the last goalie to play without a mask retired in 1974. However, there is not an actual rule in the NHL rulebook requiring a goalie to wear a mask.
Helmets, on the other hand, were made mandatory starting with the draft class in 1979, over fifty years after they were originally introduced. In 1927, Barney Stanley, a former hockey player, presented the NHL with a prototype of a protective helmet. The first player to actually wear the helmet was George Owen in 1928-29. Although a few players would wear helmets, most notably Eddie Shore, most players refused, regarding such devices as cowardly.
This changed in 1968, when Bill Masterson died after striking his head on the ice. Masterson was hit by two players, striking his head hard enough on the ice to cause blood to pour out of his nose and ears. He was rushed to the hospital, where four doctors tried for thirty hours to save him before he died from a 'massive brain injury'. By the time the NHL made the helmet mandatory for all new players, roughly 70% of the league was already wearing them.
Hopefully, it does not take Malhotra to lose his vision for the NHL to make the visor mandatory. This needs to be done immediately so that such an incident does not occur again.
Monday, March 21, 2011
What Is Wrong With The Bruins?
The Boston Bruins, once considered a team destined to reach the Eastern Conference Finals at worst, now face the very real possibility of an early playoff exit. Two weeks ago, they were considered to be a lock to win their division, now they are struggling to hold off the surging Montreal Canadiens. Boston finds themselves one point ahead of Montreal for the third seed int he playoffs, and only six points ahead of a New York Rangers team that has played well as of late, winning four in a row.
Watching the Bruins, they are playing without any fire or energy. They are passive on defense, and not playing the physical brand of hockey they need to in order to win. This is a team that thrives on physicality, yet they have moved away from their game. Why is this?
The Bruins have gone 1-3-3 in their last seven games. Since the game against Montreal where Max Pacioretty suffered the severe concussion and fractured vertebra, they have gone 1-2-2. They played particularly uninspired hockey in their most recent game, a 5-2 loss to the lowly Toronto Maple Leafs. Montreal, in the meantime, has gone 4-2-0 to gain four points on Boston.
Since Chara's hit, the Bruins have been lethargic, playing as though they are still in a daze from the severity of what transpired. The only signs of fire were when Tuukka Rask got in the face of a defenseman for being in his way when he allowed Toronto's fifth goal. Even the fight between Dion Phaneuf and Nathan Horton seemed to be an exercise in futility, as Horton needed to leave the game to get stitches from the beating Phaneuf put on him.
Perhaps instead of sending a message to Montreal that the Bruins were back to playing tough hockey, Chara's hit ended up causing the Bruins to go into a shell. Meanwhile, that hit has galvanized the Canadiens, as they are rallying around their fallen teammate and playing inspired hockey.
This is the time where the lack of leadership on Boston is truly evident. They do not have a strong locker room presence, no one that will stand up and demand that they snap out of their doldrums and go back to playing the type of hockey they must play to compete. Claude Julien is not the type of coach that will demand that they play better, and will continue to find silver linings amongst the clouds. Given Julien's inability to get past the second round, and the Bruins utter collapse against the Flyers last postseason, maybe firing him would be the wake up call that this team needs.
The Bruins need to snap out of it, or a season that held so much promise as recently as two weeks ago will end in yet another disappointing playoff performance.
Watching the Bruins, they are playing without any fire or energy. They are passive on defense, and not playing the physical brand of hockey they need to in order to win. This is a team that thrives on physicality, yet they have moved away from their game. Why is this?
The Bruins have gone 1-3-3 in their last seven games. Since the game against Montreal where Max Pacioretty suffered the severe concussion and fractured vertebra, they have gone 1-2-2. They played particularly uninspired hockey in their most recent game, a 5-2 loss to the lowly Toronto Maple Leafs. Montreal, in the meantime, has gone 4-2-0 to gain four points on Boston.
Since Chara's hit, the Bruins have been lethargic, playing as though they are still in a daze from the severity of what transpired. The only signs of fire were when Tuukka Rask got in the face of a defenseman for being in his way when he allowed Toronto's fifth goal. Even the fight between Dion Phaneuf and Nathan Horton seemed to be an exercise in futility, as Horton needed to leave the game to get stitches from the beating Phaneuf put on him.
Perhaps instead of sending a message to Montreal that the Bruins were back to playing tough hockey, Chara's hit ended up causing the Bruins to go into a shell. Meanwhile, that hit has galvanized the Canadiens, as they are rallying around their fallen teammate and playing inspired hockey.
This is the time where the lack of leadership on Boston is truly evident. They do not have a strong locker room presence, no one that will stand up and demand that they snap out of their doldrums and go back to playing the type of hockey they must play to compete. Claude Julien is not the type of coach that will demand that they play better, and will continue to find silver linings amongst the clouds. Given Julien's inability to get past the second round, and the Bruins utter collapse against the Flyers last postseason, maybe firing him would be the wake up call that this team needs.
The Bruins need to snap out of it, or a season that held so much promise as recently as two weeks ago will end in yet another disappointing playoff performance.
Friday, March 11, 2011
Shut Up Montreal
After the NHL announced that there would not be any forthcoming suspensions or fines in the wake of the hit by Zdeno Chara on Max Pacioretty, Montreal police have opened an investifation into that hit. The police stated that they are acting upon a request by the director of criminal and penal proscutions in Quebec, Louis Dionne.
In related news, Air Canada has threatened to withdraw it's sponsorship of the Montreal Canadiens home unless the league tightens rules to potentially limit severe injuries. NHL Commishioner Gary Bettmen, showing a completely uncharacteristic spine, stated that the NHL may no longer use Air Canada for it's flights as a form of retaliation.
The thing is, this sort of play happens thousands of times over the course of an NHL season. Two players are chasing a puck near the stanchion, and it essentially becomes a game of chicken. They know it's there, it just becomes a matter of which one slows up first. In this case, neither did. Momentum simply carried Pacioretty into the stanchion. Yes, the injuries are severe and unfortunate, but this play happens multiple times per game. The only thing that could possibly prevent these injuries would be to put padding on the turnbuckle, such as the padding on an NFL goalpost.
Yet, the 'outrage' coming from Montreal speaks volumes about that team. The Canadiens play a brand of hockey that is roughly akin to soccer. They dive. They flop. If someone so much as sneezes within three feet of them, they go flying across the ice as if they were shot. In fact, watching that play, it seemed as though Pacioretty was faking the injury to draw more than an interference call on Chara. It was only when he remained down for longer than a few seconds when the thought that an injury may have actually occurred came to mind. It is unfortunate, but that is the way Montreal plays.
However, they can cheap shot the opponent. They can grab. They can agitate. They will run people into goalposts. They trip. Then when someone goes to retaliate against them, they turtle, refuse to fight, and dive across the rink. These actions are why, not only do other teams hate playing them, but other NHL fans hate watching them. It is soccer on ice skates.
So, shut up Montreal. Realize that hockey is a physical game, and things like this do happen. It was an accident, pure and simple.
In related news, Air Canada has threatened to withdraw it's sponsorship of the Montreal Canadiens home unless the league tightens rules to potentially limit severe injuries. NHL Commishioner Gary Bettmen, showing a completely uncharacteristic spine, stated that the NHL may no longer use Air Canada for it's flights as a form of retaliation.
The thing is, this sort of play happens thousands of times over the course of an NHL season. Two players are chasing a puck near the stanchion, and it essentially becomes a game of chicken. They know it's there, it just becomes a matter of which one slows up first. In this case, neither did. Momentum simply carried Pacioretty into the stanchion. Yes, the injuries are severe and unfortunate, but this play happens multiple times per game. The only thing that could possibly prevent these injuries would be to put padding on the turnbuckle, such as the padding on an NFL goalpost.
Yet, the 'outrage' coming from Montreal speaks volumes about that team. The Canadiens play a brand of hockey that is roughly akin to soccer. They dive. They flop. If someone so much as sneezes within three feet of them, they go flying across the ice as if they were shot. In fact, watching that play, it seemed as though Pacioretty was faking the injury to draw more than an interference call on Chara. It was only when he remained down for longer than a few seconds when the thought that an injury may have actually occurred came to mind. It is unfortunate, but that is the way Montreal plays.
However, they can cheap shot the opponent. They can grab. They can agitate. They will run people into goalposts. They trip. Then when someone goes to retaliate against them, they turtle, refuse to fight, and dive across the rink. These actions are why, not only do other teams hate playing them, but other NHL fans hate watching them. It is soccer on ice skates.
So, shut up Montreal. Realize that hockey is a physical game, and things like this do happen. It was an accident, pure and simple.
Tuesday, February 1, 2011
Is this the end for Marc Savard?
After experiencing his fourth concussion, and dealing with the symptoms thereof, the Boston Bruins have begun to discuss the possibility of shutting Marc Savard down for the remainder of the season. This is going to be determined after he is re-evaluated on Wednesday, to see how he is progressing in regards to his most recent concussion.
Due to symptoms from post concussion syndrome due to a hit from Matt Cooke of the Penguins, Savard had played in only 25 games this season. Thus far, he has totalled 10 points (2 goals and 8 assists) with a rating of -7. At this juncture, losing Savard for the season would not be thought of as a major loss to the Bruins, since they had managed to start well without him.
However, the long term ramifications of these concussions do have to be considered with Savard. He has had four concussions over his career, including two in the past ten months. Each subsequent concussions makes it easier to get another one, leading to a vicious circle, especially in a sport such as hockey. At this point, the Bruins are looking to get him healthy for the 2011-2012 season, but perhaps the outlook should be beyond that point.
Considering the length of time it took Savard to fully recover from the Matt Cooke hit, the focus should be on getting Savard healthy. Brain injuries are a very delicate matter, and something that is not even close to being fully understood. As such, Savard should be asking himself whether or not he is willing to risk taking another hit that may result in long lasting, or permanent, damage. If the answer is no, then he should retire.
Playing so as to avoid injury is the quickest way to ensure that one does become injured. Savard is, by no stretch of the imagination, someone that is considered tough. Regardless, he has been a very gifted scorer in the NHL, and his skills on offense will eventually be missed by the Bruins. However, Savard needs to look at himself and his situation, and ask as to whether or not playing hockey is that important to him.
Due to symptoms from post concussion syndrome due to a hit from Matt Cooke of the Penguins, Savard had played in only 25 games this season. Thus far, he has totalled 10 points (2 goals and 8 assists) with a rating of -7. At this juncture, losing Savard for the season would not be thought of as a major loss to the Bruins, since they had managed to start well without him.
However, the long term ramifications of these concussions do have to be considered with Savard. He has had four concussions over his career, including two in the past ten months. Each subsequent concussions makes it easier to get another one, leading to a vicious circle, especially in a sport such as hockey. At this point, the Bruins are looking to get him healthy for the 2011-2012 season, but perhaps the outlook should be beyond that point.
Considering the length of time it took Savard to fully recover from the Matt Cooke hit, the focus should be on getting Savard healthy. Brain injuries are a very delicate matter, and something that is not even close to being fully understood. As such, Savard should be asking himself whether or not he is willing to risk taking another hit that may result in long lasting, or permanent, damage. If the answer is no, then he should retire.
Playing so as to avoid injury is the quickest way to ensure that one does become injured. Savard is, by no stretch of the imagination, someone that is considered tough. Regardless, he has been a very gifted scorer in the NHL, and his skills on offense will eventually be missed by the Bruins. However, Savard needs to look at himself and his situation, and ask as to whether or not playing hockey is that important to him.
Subscribe to:
Comments (Atom)