I am at a loss of words. And I am not what you would call an economic genius. I don't know the difference between the CBA and the NBA. But what I am is a hockey fan. A hockey fan who has spent countless amounts of money, energy, and time into watching my team over the past 25 years. That's a quarter of a century I devoted to this team and to this league.
This could possibly be the 3rd lockout in my lifetime. Most sports have had zero in their history. Hockey went almost 80 years without missing one season except for the 1919 flu epidemic. Then in 1994 there was the first lockout. This one lasted a few months and the season was shortened. Gary Bettman and the NHL executives PROMISED us this would never happen again. Well, in 2004 it did. The NHL season was completely cancelled. This was and still is the only time in North American professional sports that an entire season was cancelled due to a labor dispute. They finally agreed and the 2005-06 season went off perfectly. The NHL was is it's prime in my opinion during this time. The media was all over hockey. The revenue was growing to surplus numbers and the TV ratings were higher than ever. The addition of the shootout was a welcoming sight as well.
Now here we are, six years later. Same spot again. This is where I say enough is enough! The fans are what make this sport what it is. It's not Bettman and his goons! I say three strikes and you're out Gary! This is the third time you allowed this to happen during your time as NHL commissioner. Why does he still have a job? I know he's in charge but isn't there some sort of majority rule? If we can try to impeach a president for having an affair we can certainly get rid of this guy for screwing the hockey world over three times!
This is where I say it's time we took action ourselves. We all have the power to do something about this. It could be as little as boycotting NHL.com. Refusing to shop at the NHL store. Protesting out in front of the NHL store in NYC. We all have the power to make a change! I started this blog with the intention of bringing people a look at Devils hockey from a fan's perspective instead of the perspective of someone who gets paid to do it. I chose to start this blog because of how passionate I am about this game. It was never about the money! It was about the love of the game!
Without us there is no hockey! The sooner Gary Bettman and the owners realize that the sooner things will start to run smoother. If this doesn't get fixed we will right back here again in 6 or 7 years. Same problems!
Saturday, September 15, 2012
Wednesday, September 12, 2012
In with the old!
I was wondering the other day "who from Devils' past would I love to see back with the team?" There are players who put in the right role would help the team dramatically. Now I'm not talking about players who retired like Stevens, Niedermayer, or Daneyko. I mean players who didn't retire but when to play overseas or players who are currently FAs.
Sergei Brylin- What Devil fan didn't love this guy? He was one of the prime examples of being a great player without being super huge. And guess what? He is a free agent! Yes, Sergei is on the market. There was hope of a return to NJ before the 2012 season but he signed with the KHL before Lou could talk to him. He is the only active player besides Brodeur to play on all three of our Stanley Cup runs. The downside to signing him? He's 38. Age has caught up to him. He did however get 9 points in 41 KHL games last season.
Jeff Friesen- The man who in my opinion got screwed out of the Conn Smythe in 2003. He is a free agent. However he has been one for a couple of seasons now. He's 36 which might seem old for a hockey player but he could sign a 2 or 3 year deal with us. This is the man who had a three point night in game 7 of the Stanley Cup Finals, scored the Conference Championship winning goal, and was 4th on the team in scoring behind Elias, Langenbrunner, and Gomez. The only problem is he hasn't played in over a year which might make him coming back into North American hockey a little but of a daunting task.
Colin White- Before you start sending your hate mail, let me explain. Who cares if he was an offensive liability? He's a defenseman, not a scorer! He would hit like a beast sometimes and was willing to use his own body to protect our star players. He was a true Devil in the sense that he focused on protecting Marty and focused on a defensive strategy rather that "Hey let's have all five players crash the net!" strategy. I would love to see #5 back in a Devils jersey again.
Well that's about all I can think of right now. If any more come into my head I'll add them.
Sergei Brylin- What Devil fan didn't love this guy? He was one of the prime examples of being a great player without being super huge. And guess what? He is a free agent! Yes, Sergei is on the market. There was hope of a return to NJ before the 2012 season but he signed with the KHL before Lou could talk to him. He is the only active player besides Brodeur to play on all three of our Stanley Cup runs. The downside to signing him? He's 38. Age has caught up to him. He did however get 9 points in 41 KHL games last season.
Jeff Friesen- The man who in my opinion got screwed out of the Conn Smythe in 2003. He is a free agent. However he has been one for a couple of seasons now. He's 36 which might seem old for a hockey player but he could sign a 2 or 3 year deal with us. This is the man who had a three point night in game 7 of the Stanley Cup Finals, scored the Conference Championship winning goal, and was 4th on the team in scoring behind Elias, Langenbrunner, and Gomez. The only problem is he hasn't played in over a year which might make him coming back into North American hockey a little but of a daunting task.
Colin White- Before you start sending your hate mail, let me explain. Who cares if he was an offensive liability? He's a defenseman, not a scorer! He would hit like a beast sometimes and was willing to use his own body to protect our star players. He was a true Devil in the sense that he focused on protecting Marty and focused on a defensive strategy rather that "Hey let's have all five players crash the net!" strategy. I would love to see #5 back in a Devils jersey again.
Well that's about all I can think of right now. If any more come into my head I'll add them.
Saturday, September 1, 2012
Eastern Conference Predictions
I promised an Eastern Conference prediction was coming. Well, here it is. Before I go into it I would like to give my two cents on the lockout situation. Being someone who was never one for economics I will not embarrass myself by not going into the business aspect of it. What I do care about is the loss of hockey in a year I was really excited about. We just came off a huge Conference Championship and now we may have to wait another whole year just to see our favorite team defend that honor. Carlos of http://www.speakingofthedevils.com said it better than I could and I really think you should read what he said if you haven't already. The sadness and flat out boredom will soon turn to anger and frustration if this isn't settled sooner rather than later. But let's just assume for a minute there is no lockout. No greedy men in suits. No ca-ching ca-ching dolla dolla. Just 30 groups of 20 men playing a kids game on ice. What teams in the East will be unstoppable an which ones will die a miserable March/April death. Or in the Islanders case, a November death.
1st- New York Rangers (1st. Yes, I am putting these guys at the top. They deserve it, whether we want to believe it or not. And trust me, I don't want to!)
2nd- Ottawa Senators (8th. Daniel Alfredsson was supposed to retire, but instead decided to come back. That leadership, skill of Karlsson, and Boston's loss of Thomas help the Sens win their division)
3rd- Washington Capitals (7th. There is no reason why the Panthers should repeat as division champs. And now with Oates at the helm the Caps will dominate the SE)
4th- Pittsburgh Penguins (4th. Crosby and Malkin will demand a recount of points and try to get rules changed so they would win the division, but the play of Fleury will still keep them away from the division championship)
5th- New Jersey Devils (6th. I don't think we will drop from losing Zach. We will go up. We have the Flyers number and there is no reason why they should be ahead of us at all. As long as Teddy and Jacob step up, Clarkson keeps up his garbage goal style, Kovy leads, and Marty continues to be Marty we will be perfectly fine)
6th- Carolina Hurricanes (12th. Yes, I think the Canes will make it. Eric and Jordan Staal will step it up more than ever now that they are both on the same squad.
7th- Philadelphia Flyers (5th. I'll be honest I don't see them dominating the East like they tend to do. Will they make the playoffs? Yes of course. Just as long as Laviolette gets his head out of Giroux's behind and coaches his whole team, not just one player. He doesn't even need coaching, he's the best player in the world remember?)
8th- Tampa Bay Lightning (10th. They will get in! They are hungry to get to that '04 mountain once more. And I think although the Rangers will make short work of them, they will make into the playoffs on the finals days of the season)
9th- Buffalo Sabres (9th. For some reason they can't seem to get in when it matters. However these guys were very much in the same spot as NJ was in 2011, down and out at the New Year until a late season push scared other teams into thinking a playoff berth was possible. They came closer than we did. They missed the playoffs by 3 points. I think the same will occur in 2013)
10th- Florida Panthers (3rd. No way can they do it again. The team just isn't good enough and with Oates coaching the Capitals I don't see any team stopping them. Certainly not the Panthers at least)
11th- Winnipeg Jets (11th. They were plagued with injuries last season. Although they will play "better" than last year I don't think they will make enough of an impact to go up in the standings)
12th- Boston Bruins (2nd. Yes, I put them down here. Before you start sending your hate-mail, let me explain. They lost Thomas and Chara is getting old. Plain and simple. Rask may be up to the task (Gotta love my NHL.com style puns) but it doesn't change the fact that they lost a goalie that won them a Cup just 2 years ago)
13th- Toronto Maple Leafs (13th. It actually makes me laugh when people think the Leafs will make the playoffs. I can appreciate supporting your team and trust me, they have more support than any other team except maybe Montreal. But they are terrible. And there is no reason to think this season would be any better)
14th- Montreal Canadiens (15th. It's sad because this team a couple of years ago almost snuck in another Cup into their already record number of championships. The only team in North American professional sport with almost as many championships as the NY Yankees)
15th- New York Islanders (14th. They have not improved at all. Tavares will one day be a star but he still has yet to realize his true power and it won't happen yet. They will struggle early and never catch on. It's a shame but I really believe hockey is coming to an end for Long Island)
1st- New York Rangers (1st. Yes, I am putting these guys at the top. They deserve it, whether we want to believe it or not. And trust me, I don't want to!)
2nd- Ottawa Senators (8th. Daniel Alfredsson was supposed to retire, but instead decided to come back. That leadership, skill of Karlsson, and Boston's loss of Thomas help the Sens win their division)
3rd- Washington Capitals (7th. There is no reason why the Panthers should repeat as division champs. And now with Oates at the helm the Caps will dominate the SE)
4th- Pittsburgh Penguins (4th. Crosby and Malkin will demand a recount of points and try to get rules changed so they would win the division, but the play of Fleury will still keep them away from the division championship)
5th- New Jersey Devils (6th. I don't think we will drop from losing Zach. We will go up. We have the Flyers number and there is no reason why they should be ahead of us at all. As long as Teddy and Jacob step up, Clarkson keeps up his garbage goal style, Kovy leads, and Marty continues to be Marty we will be perfectly fine)
6th- Carolina Hurricanes (12th. Yes, I think the Canes will make it. Eric and Jordan Staal will step it up more than ever now that they are both on the same squad.
7th- Philadelphia Flyers (5th. I'll be honest I don't see them dominating the East like they tend to do. Will they make the playoffs? Yes of course. Just as long as Laviolette gets his head out of Giroux's behind and coaches his whole team, not just one player. He doesn't even need coaching, he's the best player in the world remember?)
8th- Tampa Bay Lightning (10th. They will get in! They are hungry to get to that '04 mountain once more. And I think although the Rangers will make short work of them, they will make into the playoffs on the finals days of the season)
9th- Buffalo Sabres (9th. For some reason they can't seem to get in when it matters. However these guys were very much in the same spot as NJ was in 2011, down and out at the New Year until a late season push scared other teams into thinking a playoff berth was possible. They came closer than we did. They missed the playoffs by 3 points. I think the same will occur in 2013)
10th- Florida Panthers (3rd. No way can they do it again. The team just isn't good enough and with Oates coaching the Capitals I don't see any team stopping them. Certainly not the Panthers at least)
11th- Winnipeg Jets (11th. They were plagued with injuries last season. Although they will play "better" than last year I don't think they will make enough of an impact to go up in the standings)
12th- Boston Bruins (2nd. Yes, I put them down here. Before you start sending your hate-mail, let me explain. They lost Thomas and Chara is getting old. Plain and simple. Rask may be up to the task (Gotta love my NHL.com style puns) but it doesn't change the fact that they lost a goalie that won them a Cup just 2 years ago)
13th- Toronto Maple Leafs (13th. It actually makes me laugh when people think the Leafs will make the playoffs. I can appreciate supporting your team and trust me, they have more support than any other team except maybe Montreal. But they are terrible. And there is no reason to think this season would be any better)
14th- Montreal Canadiens (15th. It's sad because this team a couple of years ago almost snuck in another Cup into their already record number of championships. The only team in North American professional sport with almost as many championships as the NY Yankees)
15th- New York Islanders (14th. They have not improved at all. Tavares will one day be a star but he still has yet to realize his true power and it won't happen yet. They will struggle early and never catch on. It's a shame but I really believe hockey is coming to an end for Long Island)
Wednesday, August 29, 2012
Western Conference Predictions
Everyone is doing these stupid predictions on NHL.com and making their team in the top 3 of their respective conference. It's actually pretty pathetic because a lot of these predictions are flat out wrong and make no sense whatsoever. And what's even funnier is where a lot of these people put the Devils. About 90% of them have NJ in the bottom 3rd of the conference. That looks familiar. Just like every OTHER prediction over the last few years. I figured let's look at this from a reasonable standpoint. No one in their right frame of mind would ever put the Leafs in 1st place. Let's take a legit unbiased look into the predictions of the 2012-13 NHL standings. Next to their name is a short reason why I think they will finish where they will and where they finished last year.
Western Conference:
1st- Nashville Predators (4th. Pekka Rinne will have a perfect year)
2nd- Vancouver Canucks (1st. They will drop but not much as Schnieder and the Sedins puts up amazing numbers)
3rd- Dallas Stars (10th. It's their time to get back in. Jagr will have a mediocre year but his veteran leadership will push the team)
4th- Chicago Blackhawks (6th. Getting eliminated in the first round last year sparks the team to play better than ever)
5th- Los Angeles Kings (8th. Their Twitter account will cry foul until they were just given a playoff spot)
6th- Colorado Avalanche (11th. Remember when the Avs were amazing? They will rise again!)
7th- Detroit Red Wings (5th. Losing their captain will almost spell doom for the playoff streak until the final week of the season)
8th- San Jose Sharks (7th. They will just barely swim into the playoffs. I should write for NHL.com. My puns are better than theirs!)
9th- St Louis Blues (2nd. I really don't see this team repeating it's miracle run from last year. Their division is just too tough)
10th- Minnesota Wild (12th. Zach will be too occupied with his Mom's nuggets and his Shrek coloring book to make enough of an impact to help this team. Don't know what I'm talking about, go through my older posts)
11th- Calgary Flames (9th. I feel bad for Iginla. He is on a team of misfits who will never the 1989 mountain ever again)
12th- Anaheim Ducks (Goldberg just isn't the goalie he used to be and Fulton shot only hits the net 1 out of 5!)
13th Phoenix Coyotes (3rd. Shane Doan will retire or move on to another team. They will be nothing without their captain. Not to mention losing "The Wizard" Ray Whitney)
14th Edmonton Oilers (14th. Edmonton needs to wake up and realize scoring isn't their issue, it's defense! They keep using 1st picks on great scorers without building any real depth on the back end. Until they do that they will forever be in the cellar!)
15th Columbus Blue Jackets (15th. They lost Rick Nash. They may actually be the first NHL team to be so horrible they end up in 31st place in the NHL just because the NHL feels 30th is too nice of a number)
Tune in next time as we looks at the East!
Western Conference:
1st- Nashville Predators (4th. Pekka Rinne will have a perfect year)
2nd- Vancouver Canucks (1st. They will drop but not much as Schnieder and the Sedins puts up amazing numbers)
3rd- Dallas Stars (10th. It's their time to get back in. Jagr will have a mediocre year but his veteran leadership will push the team)
4th- Chicago Blackhawks (6th. Getting eliminated in the first round last year sparks the team to play better than ever)
5th- Los Angeles Kings (8th. Their Twitter account will cry foul until they were just given a playoff spot)
6th- Colorado Avalanche (11th. Remember when the Avs were amazing? They will rise again!)
7th- Detroit Red Wings (5th. Losing their captain will almost spell doom for the playoff streak until the final week of the season)
8th- San Jose Sharks (7th. They will just barely swim into the playoffs. I should write for NHL.com. My puns are better than theirs!)
9th- St Louis Blues (2nd. I really don't see this team repeating it's miracle run from last year. Their division is just too tough)
10th- Minnesota Wild (12th. Zach will be too occupied with his Mom's nuggets and his Shrek coloring book to make enough of an impact to help this team. Don't know what I'm talking about, go through my older posts)
11th- Calgary Flames (9th. I feel bad for Iginla. He is on a team of misfits who will never the 1989 mountain ever again)
12th- Anaheim Ducks (Goldberg just isn't the goalie he used to be and Fulton shot only hits the net 1 out of 5!)
13th Phoenix Coyotes (3rd. Shane Doan will retire or move on to another team. They will be nothing without their captain. Not to mention losing "The Wizard" Ray Whitney)
14th Edmonton Oilers (14th. Edmonton needs to wake up and realize scoring isn't their issue, it's defense! They keep using 1st picks on great scorers without building any real depth on the back end. Until they do that they will forever be in the cellar!)
15th Columbus Blue Jackets (15th. They lost Rick Nash. They may actually be the first NHL team to be so horrible they end up in 31st place in the NHL just because the NHL feels 30th is too nice of a number)
Tune in next time as we looks at the East!
Sunday, August 19, 2012
THERE'S NO END TO THE POSSIBILITIES!!!
Since there's really nothing happening in the world of hockey I decided a post of some kind was needed. So I thought of what city might make a good locale for an expansion team. Here's a list of cities I feel deserve a hockey team.
Seattle- This in my opinion more than any other city needs one. It would be a great hockey market with the Canucks just a hop, skip, and jump north. The teams there now are a joke. The Mariners and Seahawks are without a championship in either of their sports. They have a soccer team but the MLS is about as exciting as the WNBA.
Team name- Seattle Generals
Quebec City- They have been dying for a team. The supporters of the Nordiques have made their presence felt by showing up to other teams games and selling out full sections. They did this to the Rock in 2011. Luckily they also cheer for that arena's home team during the game. Kinda weird to think that people donning blue jerseys were cheering for the Devils at the Prudential Center.
Team name- Quebec Nordiques
Las Vegas- Hell, we have one team in the desert. Why not another? They would even have a star player playing for them. The moment Jaromir Jagr realizes Vegas has a team he would demand a trade that day.
Team name- Las Vegas Jackpot
Kansas City- This city would work because they already have the arena. Yes it's old. Yes it's known to be haunted by Owen Hart. But they at least have an arena. The Islanders can't even say that. Just don't make the mistake of calling your team the Scouts. 2 years with that ridiculous logo and color scheme are enough. And besides, who wants to associate yourself with a team who won 27 games in their history? I sure as hell don't.
Team name- Kansas City Cougars
Wild Card-
Anchorage- I think it's time. Alaska needs a sports team. No sport would do well in Alaska other than ice hockey. Scott Gomez and Brandon Dubinsky would beg to be traded to these teams. The GM of Anchorage would look at Canadiens GM Marc Bergevin and laugh for even the thought that Anchorage would want Gomer. Dubi would be hailed as a hometown hero, scoring 40 goals in his first year then magically get reduced to 3 the following.
Seattle- This in my opinion more than any other city needs one. It would be a great hockey market with the Canucks just a hop, skip, and jump north. The teams there now are a joke. The Mariners and Seahawks are without a championship in either of their sports. They have a soccer team but the MLS is about as exciting as the WNBA.
Team name- Seattle Generals
Quebec City- They have been dying for a team. The supporters of the Nordiques have made their presence felt by showing up to other teams games and selling out full sections. They did this to the Rock in 2011. Luckily they also cheer for that arena's home team during the game. Kinda weird to think that people donning blue jerseys were cheering for the Devils at the Prudential Center.
Team name- Quebec Nordiques
Las Vegas- Hell, we have one team in the desert. Why not another? They would even have a star player playing for them. The moment Jaromir Jagr realizes Vegas has a team he would demand a trade that day.
Team name- Las Vegas Jackpot
Kansas City- This city would work because they already have the arena. Yes it's old. Yes it's known to be haunted by Owen Hart. But they at least have an arena. The Islanders can't even say that. Just don't make the mistake of calling your team the Scouts. 2 years with that ridiculous logo and color scheme are enough. And besides, who wants to associate yourself with a team who won 27 games in their history? I sure as hell don't.
Team name- Kansas City Cougars
Wild Card-
Anchorage- I think it's time. Alaska needs a sports team. No sport would do well in Alaska other than ice hockey. Scott Gomez and Brandon Dubinsky would beg to be traded to these teams. The GM of Anchorage would look at Canadiens GM Marc Bergevin and laugh for even the thought that Anchorage would want Gomer. Dubi would be hailed as a hometown hero, scoring 40 goals in his first year then magically get reduced to 3 the following.
Saturday, August 11, 2012
Was signing Bobby Butler a good move?
The answer? Yes, it was. Adding a bit of depth to our youth is important in keeping the tradition of the Devils alive. The tradition of defying the odds and winning. "In Lou We Trust" is not just a little slogan for us to rally behind. It's the honest truth. We would trust this guy with our lives if needed. So you know there is a huge reason why he does the things he does. People sneered when he picked up Steve Bernier and Ryan Carter. Just asking, "Why? Why waste the money? These guys were put on waivers for a reason!" Well the 4th line that consisted of Carter, Bernier, and Gionta tore apart the playoffs.
So if Lou's random pickups are any indication it's that he still knows what he's doing. Bobby Butler was once an AHL All-Star Game MVP. He then played 36 games in Ottawa before getting sent back to Binghamton where he led his team to a Calder Cup victory. 22 goals in 47 games in the AHL is a hell of a season. 10 in 36 in the NHL is just as good if not better. However this past season he spent entirely in Ottawa he fell into a sophomore slump, scoring only 6 goals in 56 games. On July 27th he was put on waivers by the Sens and his contract was bought out. Then Lou stepped in and did what he does best.
It remains to be seen whether Butler will spend the 2012-13 season in Jersey or in Albany. He signed a tow-way contract so most likely he will be in upstate NY for a while and if any injuries come about he will be the guy who fills their skates. With Mattias Tedenby most likely making opening night's lineup, I see this as the most probably outcome.
Here are a few of his highlights:
I do not own this video. It was taken from YouTube. Credit for this video goes to dmarc023
Wednesday, July 18, 2012
Scott Stevens Top 10 Moments!
In light of Scott Stevens getting his position as the Assistant Coach of the Devils I decided to take a look at the top 10 greatest Scott Stevens moments. So let's get started!
10. Getting sent to NJ
It's tough for any Devil fan to believe it but there was a time when Scott Stevens didn't want to be a Devil. And for those of you who don't know the whole story it is more dramatic than you think. After a huge court battle the Devils were able to secure him. The Blues originally signed Brendan Shanahan who was an restricted free agent. This required St Louis to compensate NJ. The Blues were offering 2 draft picks, Curtis Joseph, and Rod Brind'amour. But Lou demanded Scotty. And he got him!
9 Off the floor, on the board Paul Kariya
Now this one I put low not because of the hit. If it was just the hit it probably would've been #3. It's because of what happened AFTER the hit. Now looking back on it it's over, the Devils won in game 7 at home so everything turned out ok in the end. But at the time, it was one of the most surreal moments I've ever experienced as a hockey fan. Don't know what I'm talking about? Take a look.
8 Being named Captain of the Devils
Scott Stevens has become synonymous with leadership. In just his second season with the team he was named captain after serving the previous season as alternate captain. This I feel was the moment where we knew as Devil fans that he was a main stay for our organization. He was and will always be the greatest captain in New Jersey Devil history.
7 The 3rd Cup
I put this sort of low on the list. But it was one of the greatest moments of my entire life for obvious reasons. I was 14 years old at the time, and I just remember seeing Stevens raise his arms up as the clock was about to wind down. He and Daneyko were the two defensemen on the ice for that final buzzer and that really meant a lot to both of them.
6 The hit on Ron Francis
5 "You're Next!"
This is where we get to the nitty gritty in that I could not think of what to put in what order. The hit on Kozlov during game 2 of the 1995 Finals fills the 5 spot. Or the "5 hole" if you will. What made this awesome was that it sparked a fear into the Wings that carried over at home in games 3 and 4. It not only sent Kozlov to the ice, but Niedermayer as well. This in many Devil fans minds, coupled with the Niedermayer coast-to-coast goal, was the moment that we knew that Cup was ours. Dino Ciccarelli started chirping at Scotty on the bench. To which Scott Stevens replied: "You're next!"
4 ever
It just so happens that this one comes in at #4 on my list. Nooooo not intentional at all. Scott Stevens received a huge honor and got his number retired by the Devils becoming the first ever player to do so. He was followed by Daneyko a month later and Niedermayer last season. I still get teary eyed whenever I hear that chant: "Thank you Scotty!" coming from the packed Continental Airlines Arena. I think Scotty said it best: "I think this is the first time I've ever felt intimidated on this ice."
3 The hit on Eric Lindros
This one goes without saying. It is regarded by many to be the greatest body check in NHL history. Rightfully so. Lindros was never the same after this hit. He suffered from concussion after concussion and never ever got back his scoring touch. After going down 3-1 to Philly in the 2000 ECF, the Devils rallied back to tie the series at 7. During that game 7 Stevens stunned the First Union Center by leveling their captain. Bobby Holik immediately turned to his teammates sitting next to him and said "Boys, we're gonna win this one!" That's exactly what they did.
2 1st Cup
The upset that no one saw coming. The red hot Red Wings against the kids from the Garden State. This was the moment that started a chain of events that led us to becoming the best team in the East over the past two decades.
1 The 2000 Stanley Cup/Conne Smythe
No doubt the best moment for Scott Stevens was the 2000 Stanley Cup. Just the effort he put out during the whole playoffs was unbelievable. I already talked about the Lindros hit, but it goes way beyond that. He shut down Pavel Bure and Mark Recchi as well. He got an assist on the Cup winning OT goal. Stevens was rewarded for his efforts with the Conne Smythe Trophy, awarded to the playoff MVP.
10. Getting sent to NJ
It's tough for any Devil fan to believe it but there was a time when Scott Stevens didn't want to be a Devil. And for those of you who don't know the whole story it is more dramatic than you think. After a huge court battle the Devils were able to secure him. The Blues originally signed Brendan Shanahan who was an restricted free agent. This required St Louis to compensate NJ. The Blues were offering 2 draft picks, Curtis Joseph, and Rod Brind'amour. But Lou demanded Scotty. And he got him!
9 Off the floor, on the board Paul Kariya
8 Being named Captain of the Devils
Scott Stevens has become synonymous with leadership. In just his second season with the team he was named captain after serving the previous season as alternate captain. This I feel was the moment where we knew as Devil fans that he was a main stay for our organization. He was and will always be the greatest captain in New Jersey Devil history.
6 The hit on Ron Francis
Ron Francis is a legend. But I'm not sure if he even remembers half of his career all because of one hit by Stevens that sent him to the bench but not before falling to the ice a total of three times. Just a good, clean, hard check.
4 ever
3 The hit on Eric Lindros
2 1st Cup
1 The 2000 Stanley Cup/Conne Smythe
Saturday, July 14, 2012
Janssen does his best Howard Stern and Jason Ellis Impression
I've been searching high and low for something I can finally post about news worthy. I spent three days staring at NHL.com praying something other than "Rick Nash's trade coming some time this century" on the main page. I didn't find it. But what I did find, intrigued me. Cam Janssen had been interviewed by "The Thom and Jeff Show". Never heard of it? Yea, me neither. Now you have. I have never heard anything about them and I for one am a huge fan of edgy, uncensored radio. A couple of years ago Scott Ferrall of Howard Stern fame interviewed Brian Rolston. The talk was mostly about Kovalchuk's new mega contract but also some slight adult themes. Rollie, being the mature hockey player he is, kept it a little more PG-13 as much as he could. Whereas our friend Cam Janssen, uhhh... took it to the next level.
In the interview Cam called the LA Kings "The fat broads you bang, then regret you banged them. I've been there and done that before!" Holy hell! Now our friend #25 is just getting started. He then went into saying something that completely destroys his reputation as a player and human being. He said he intentionally sets out to hurt other players. Acording to "SBNation.com" this is what Cam said:
In the interview Cam called the LA Kings "The fat broads you bang, then regret you banged them. I've been there and done that before!" Holy hell! Now our friend #25 is just getting started. He then went into saying something that completely destroys his reputation as a player and human being. He said he intentionally sets out to hurt other players. Acording to "SBNation.com" this is what Cam said:
"I love it. And you know what, I respect a lot of the guys and you wanna have people respect you. If you're a f****** dips*** out there, you're not going to get any respect and other teams aren't gonna respect you. And if other teams don't respect you, then they're not gonna sign you and it's just kind of a trickle effect.
"But you wanna be scary. You wanna put the fear of f******* God in people's eyes, and not just, 'Oh, I'm gonna beat you up' -- no, 'I'm gonna catch you with your f******* head down and hurt you because you're not gonna know I'm comin', because I know how to hit.' Fighting guys is one thing because I know, 'Oh, I won't fight you. I'll just turtle.' Whatever. But if you have the puck and you know how to hit and you can hurt guys with hits like I know how to do, that's what puts the fear of God into people."
Christ! But THEN... Oh yes my little pitchforks, our friend Cam isn't done yet. He then makes a comment about gays. Yes, you heard it here. He was asked about trash talking on the ice. He said that guys use "personal s***" to get their point across. The host then asked him: (This is very graphic folks) "So if a guy was s****** c*** a few weeks ago, you'd let him know about it?"
To which Cam replied: "Oh if he is s****** c***, he's getting his a** kicked!"
He offered an apology the following day:
"Earlier this week, I participated in an internet-based radio show in which I used some poor judgment which I now regret. The New Jersey Devils were unaware of this interview, which I arranged myself.
"I would like to apologize for my poor choice of language. The tone of the interview was very casual and off-color, and I lost focus on what is and is not acceptable and professional. I am deeply sorry to anyone who was offended by my language. Moving forward, I hope to eliminate that type of language from my vocabulary. I would also like to take this chance to express my support for the work the You Can Play project is doing, and for the gay community in general.
"I apologize for the embarrassment my comments have caused to the New Jersey Devils management, as well as my teammates."
"I apologize for the embarrassment my comments have caused to the New Jersey Devils management, as well as my teammates."
Good job Cammy! We are sure glad you're back! Hey NHL LOOK!!! OUR VERY OWN SEAN AVERY!!!!! God help us all!
If you want to actually hear the interview, here it is. Don't say I didn't warn you. http://www.sbnation.com/nhl/2012/7/12/3155651/cam-janssen-interview-video-devils
Wednesday, July 11, 2012
My Ultimate Devils lineup!!!
A few days ago #DevilsUltimateLineup was trending on Twitter. people were all posting about what lineup would they start a game with if they could put together any Devil from history. Obviously Marty was the starting goalie on every tweet but I noticed the forwards and defenseman kind of spread out. Even I had trouble putting together my line. So I figured it might be fun to give you guys my ultimate Devils TEAM as opposed to just ultimate "line". Keep in mind some of these guys only had short stints with NJ, but felt they needed to be included.
1st line- LW Ilya Kovalchuk C Patrik Elias RW John MacLean
2nd line- LW Claude Lemieux C Mark Johnson RW Alexander Mogilny
3rd line- LW Patrick Sundstrom C Doug Gilmour RW Brendan Shanahan
4th line- LW Stephane Richer C Bobby Holik RW Brian Gionta
Defense-
1st line- Scott Niedermayer Scott Stevens
2nd line- Bruce Driver Viacheslav Fetisov
3rd line- Jack O'Callahan Phil Housley
Goalies-
Starter- Martin Brodeur
Backup- Sean Burke
Well that was fun. Leave a comment, hit me on Twitter, or email me if you think I missed anyone or picked someone on here poorly.
2nd line- LW Claude Lemieux C Mark Johnson RW Alexander Mogilny
3rd line- LW Patrick Sundstrom C Doug Gilmour RW Brendan Shanahan
4th line- LW Stephane Richer C Bobby Holik RW Brian Gionta
Defense-
1st line- Scott Niedermayer Scott Stevens
2nd line- Bruce Driver Viacheslav Fetisov
3rd line- Jack O'Callahan Phil Housley
Goalies-
Starter- Martin Brodeur
Backup- Sean Burke
Well that was fun. Leave a comment, hit me on Twitter, or email me if you think I missed anyone or picked someone on here poorly.
C IS FOR CAPTAIN, THAT'S GOOD ENOUGH FOR ME!
Last year around this time I posted who I thought would wear the C that upcoming season. I said it would be Parise and I was correct. Now that Zach has gone home to eat his Mommy's chicken nuggets and play with his Shrek coloring book (if you don't get the reference go back to my earlier posts) it is time to "part the Red C" once again.
Let's take a look at the candidates.
#17 Ilya Valerevich Kovalchuk- The probable winner of the sweepstakes. He is the most willing to lead the team into battle. He is also not afraid to throw his weight around. Schenn learned that the hard way last season when he got Tyson-style KOed by Kovy. It will be also kind of nice to have a captain who will be sticking around for a while. 13 more years to be exact. He won't be as impactful a captain as Scotty was, but most likely will still lead the team to at least one Stanley Cup in our future.
#26 Patrik Elias- He won't get it for one reason. He doesn't want it. He had it for a while during that awkward Niedermayer/Stevens concussion/lockout time period. He says he doesn't like to be the star attraction. Very humble if ya ask me, but he would make a great fit. He is one of our franchise players and holds just about every Devils record that does not involve a goaltender.
#24 Bryce Salvador- I'm going to get one thing abundantly clear. I HATED this man. Note the past tense. I am now eating my words as he is one of my favorite players on our roster. A player who seemed like a stay-at-home defenseman, he all of a sudden drank the Niedermayer kool-aid in the playoffs. He scored key goals and help lead the team right into the Stanley Cup Finals. He will most likely get an A on his chest but no C.
#30 Martin Brodeur- I know it's considered taboo to make a goalie captain. But Vancouver did it. Why not us? But will it? No. But it is kinda nice to think about. He is the backbone of the franchise and if you say the words "New Jersey Devils" he is the face you picture in your mind whether you know about hockey or not. He has become synonymous with winning and is our team leader, however he won't be wearing a C anytime soon.
Honestly, that's about it. I can't really picture any other Devil being the captain other than Kovalchuk or Elias. It was a shame to lose Zach but we can now have a captain who will actually do something with the captaincy rather than just get it for a year then turn your back on it.
I know the humor was lacking in this post, but we gotta be serious sometimes right?... right? Oh, that's boring? Oh ok! Won't happen again!
Let's take a look at the candidates.
#17 Ilya Valerevich Kovalchuk- The probable winner of the sweepstakes. He is the most willing to lead the team into battle. He is also not afraid to throw his weight around. Schenn learned that the hard way last season when he got Tyson-style KOed by Kovy. It will be also kind of nice to have a captain who will be sticking around for a while. 13 more years to be exact. He won't be as impactful a captain as Scotty was, but most likely will still lead the team to at least one Stanley Cup in our future.
#26 Patrik Elias- He won't get it for one reason. He doesn't want it. He had it for a while during that awkward Niedermayer/Stevens concussion/lockout time period. He says he doesn't like to be the star attraction. Very humble if ya ask me, but he would make a great fit. He is one of our franchise players and holds just about every Devils record that does not involve a goaltender.
#24 Bryce Salvador- I'm going to get one thing abundantly clear. I HATED this man. Note the past tense. I am now eating my words as he is one of my favorite players on our roster. A player who seemed like a stay-at-home defenseman, he all of a sudden drank the Niedermayer kool-aid in the playoffs. He scored key goals and help lead the team right into the Stanley Cup Finals. He will most likely get an A on his chest but no C.
#30 Martin Brodeur- I know it's considered taboo to make a goalie captain. But Vancouver did it. Why not us? But will it? No. But it is kinda nice to think about. He is the backbone of the franchise and if you say the words "New Jersey Devils" he is the face you picture in your mind whether you know about hockey or not. He has become synonymous with winning and is our team leader, however he won't be wearing a C anytime soon.
Honestly, that's about it. I can't really picture any other Devil being the captain other than Kovalchuk or Elias. It was a shame to lose Zach but we can now have a captain who will actually do something with the captaincy rather than just get it for a year then turn your back on it.
I know the humor was lacking in this post, but we gotta be serious sometimes right?... right? Oh, that's boring? Oh ok! Won't happen again!
Semin please fill the hole......... In our lineup!
Yes, it's a bad joke I know. But let's be honest, out of all the remaining FA's who would you rather have out there with Kovalchuk? Shane Doan is never going to don the red and black. But still, some fans actually believe he might be jumping the coast from the desert to the swamp. We've picked up a new guy along the way and resigned a bunch others. That new guy I have to ask why? But we'll get to him. Here's a look at the top 3 remaining free agents and how they would fit into our lineup.
Teemu Selanne-
Pro- The ageless Finn. He keeps signing one year deals because he nor the Ducks know when that season will be his final. 76 Goals in his rookie year? Holy hell! He would bring a sense of leadership to our lineup the same way Shanahan did when he came back a couple of years ago.
Con- He's old as hell! Not taking anything away from him. I mean he still can score, but he's just too old. The Devils need youth. The other con, he is not going to sign with us. He's got his sights set on Anaheim or Winnipeg. I'm sure Jersey hasn't even crossed his mind.
Final verdict- Teemu will go to Manitoba or stay in Disneyland.
Alexander Semin-
Pro- He seems to be the most likely to head to NJ. But once again the Penguins are trying to get him and even the KHL. I don't understand how Pittsburgh has so much cap space. You have 2 of the best players in the NHL in your lineup. How do they have the money? It blows my mind! If he does sign with us, it'll give Kovy a possible winger who can talk to him on the ice in Russian. Sorry Trav, but you're going to have to brush up on your Bolshevik speak because the two guys next to you at the faceoff circle will be speaking it to one another.
Con- He's a pussy. I hate to be blunt here but I can't stress this enough. He holds a hockey record. First slap fight in NHL history. If you want to have a hockey record come up with something original. Like... taking off your skate and try stabbing someone. That's original right? No one's EVER done that! But I feel that playing with Kovy would help his toughness out a bit. Kovalchuk is no pushover. Just ask Brayden Schenn. I think he was most excited about his brother Luke coming to Philly because of the fact that his brother can protect him from Ilya.
Final Verdict- Pens will push for him but he will either come to Jersey or go play for the Lokomotiv. He seems like a guy who wants money. He's going to be a fish in a big pond. He's going to see a ton of bait coming from different fishing lines. And whichever one is shiniest and biggest, he's going to bite it. Phew, I filled my riddle metaphor quota for this post!
Shane Doan-
Pro- Skilled yet old, Shane Doan has spent his entire career with one franchise. He is in the same boat as Selanne. He will either stay with the Jets errr I mean Coyotes, or sign with the Jets. But rumors have circulated that as many as 20 teams have sent him offer sheets, including the Devils. He can score, but somehow he has only gotten one hat trick in his entire career. He scored that 3rd goal with less than a second left in the game.
Con- Also like Teemu, he's older. The Devils need a youthful winger that can help the team. He isn't a demon scorer. His career high is 31 goals, but has stayed consistent throughout his career.
Final Verdict- He isn't coming to NJ, he will most likely sign with the Rangers or Penguins. He is nearing the end of his career. The guy wants a Cup. And let's face it, even though we made it to the Finals, we are never a front-runner for the Cup.
Now really quick I want to talk about Krys Barch and some recent re-signings by Lou Lamoriello. Namely one. Cam Janssen. A simple question I need to ask is... Why!? He's the most unproductive forward in the NHL if you don't count Eric Boulton who, thank God, got scrapped and is playing in Nassau County next year. I have two theories as to why he got resigned. 1. He likes it here, and the fans seems to like whenever he's in the lineup because you know some s*** is about to go down! Especially against the Rangers. He hates the Rangers. Don't believe me? Check out the video on the bottom of the post and skip to about 2 minutes. The 2nd reason? Uhhh... I'll get back to you on that one. Now if resigning Janssen was bad, then how about signing Krys Barch? My first reaction to this was... "Who the hell is Kyrs Barch?" I looked him up on Wikipedia (the most reliable source ever. Well, second best. The best has to be the HockeyyInsiderr.) and I first saw his stats. Oh wow, 12 goals in 302 games. He has got to be a D man. Right? No. He's a forward. With a ton of penalty minutes. So we got rid of Boulton, just to sign another Boulton. Your brain can fight that alllll you want. Kinda makes ya dizzy, eh? So you mgiht be thinking, well he's still young, he will develop a bit. It took Clarkson a few years before he came through. But no, this guys is 32. There was NO REASON TO SIGN THIS MAN! You have probably the BEST 4th line in the whole damn league! You don't NEED this a**hole! You can see how angry I am about this.
Ok, so I need to calm down a bit, but when I do I will be back to give you guys the rundown on the captaincy as we reopen one of my first posts from last year. Who should be the captain?
Teemu Selanne-
Pro- The ageless Finn. He keeps signing one year deals because he nor the Ducks know when that season will be his final. 76 Goals in his rookie year? Holy hell! He would bring a sense of leadership to our lineup the same way Shanahan did when he came back a couple of years ago.
Con- He's old as hell! Not taking anything away from him. I mean he still can score, but he's just too old. The Devils need youth. The other con, he is not going to sign with us. He's got his sights set on Anaheim or Winnipeg. I'm sure Jersey hasn't even crossed his mind.
Final verdict- Teemu will go to Manitoba or stay in Disneyland.
Alexander Semin-
Pro- He seems to be the most likely to head to NJ. But once again the Penguins are trying to get him and even the KHL. I don't understand how Pittsburgh has so much cap space. You have 2 of the best players in the NHL in your lineup. How do they have the money? It blows my mind! If he does sign with us, it'll give Kovy a possible winger who can talk to him on the ice in Russian. Sorry Trav, but you're going to have to brush up on your Bolshevik speak because the two guys next to you at the faceoff circle will be speaking it to one another.
Con- He's a pussy. I hate to be blunt here but I can't stress this enough. He holds a hockey record. First slap fight in NHL history. If you want to have a hockey record come up with something original. Like... taking off your skate and try stabbing someone. That's original right? No one's EVER done that! But I feel that playing with Kovy would help his toughness out a bit. Kovalchuk is no pushover. Just ask Brayden Schenn. I think he was most excited about his brother Luke coming to Philly because of the fact that his brother can protect him from Ilya.
Final Verdict- Pens will push for him but he will either come to Jersey or go play for the Lokomotiv. He seems like a guy who wants money. He's going to be a fish in a big pond. He's going to see a ton of bait coming from different fishing lines. And whichever one is shiniest and biggest, he's going to bite it. Phew, I filled my riddle metaphor quota for this post!
Shane Doan-
Pro- Skilled yet old, Shane Doan has spent his entire career with one franchise. He is in the same boat as Selanne. He will either stay with the Jets errr I mean Coyotes, or sign with the Jets. But rumors have circulated that as many as 20 teams have sent him offer sheets, including the Devils. He can score, but somehow he has only gotten one hat trick in his entire career. He scored that 3rd goal with less than a second left in the game.
Con- Also like Teemu, he's older. The Devils need a youthful winger that can help the team. He isn't a demon scorer. His career high is 31 goals, but has stayed consistent throughout his career.
Final Verdict- He isn't coming to NJ, he will most likely sign with the Rangers or Penguins. He is nearing the end of his career. The guy wants a Cup. And let's face it, even though we made it to the Finals, we are never a front-runner for the Cup.
Now really quick I want to talk about Krys Barch and some recent re-signings by Lou Lamoriello. Namely one. Cam Janssen. A simple question I need to ask is... Why!? He's the most unproductive forward in the NHL if you don't count Eric Boulton who, thank God, got scrapped and is playing in Nassau County next year. I have two theories as to why he got resigned. 1. He likes it here, and the fans seems to like whenever he's in the lineup because you know some s*** is about to go down! Especially against the Rangers. He hates the Rangers. Don't believe me? Check out the video on the bottom of the post and skip to about 2 minutes. The 2nd reason? Uhhh... I'll get back to you on that one. Now if resigning Janssen was bad, then how about signing Krys Barch? My first reaction to this was... "Who the hell is Kyrs Barch?" I looked him up on Wikipedia (the most reliable source ever. Well, second best. The best has to be the HockeyyInsiderr.) and I first saw his stats. Oh wow, 12 goals in 302 games. He has got to be a D man. Right? No. He's a forward. With a ton of penalty minutes. So we got rid of Boulton, just to sign another Boulton. Your brain can fight that alllll you want. Kinda makes ya dizzy, eh? So you mgiht be thinking, well he's still young, he will develop a bit. It took Clarkson a few years before he came through. But no, this guys is 32. There was NO REASON TO SIGN THIS MAN! You have probably the BEST 4th line in the whole damn league! You don't NEED this a**hole! You can see how angry I am about this.
Friday, July 6, 2012
My exclusive interview with Zach Parise
I don't have to tell you how upset I was when I read the words "Parise signs with Minnesota". We felt a deep sense of abandonment. It was without a doubt the worst moment to be a Devils fan since Niedermayer left us. But was it really SO bad to lose him? 7.5 million dollars is as LoneStar put it: "A S***LOAD of money!" Let's take a look at the facts. Zach Parise was sort of a playoff bust. He rarely showed up to games and didn't seem like a great threat to score when he was on the ice. That's where the Devils needed leadership. The playoffs. Now I have been trying to figure out why Zach went to the Wild. So I set up an interview with Zach Parise one-on-one to get to the bottom of this.
PF&HS: How you doin' today Zach?
Zach Parise: Doin' great. I just got back golfing with my Daddy.
PF&HS: Well, that's nice. So Zach let's cut right to the chase. Can you elaborate on your decision of abandon er I mean... leave New Jersey to go to Minnesota.
ZP: I decided that my parents needed me at home. Can't ever beat my Mommy's cooking. She makes the best chicken nuggets ever! They're Purdue!!!
PF&HS: OK, so you're saying the only reason you signed with the Wild is because you... Like your Mother's-
ZP: (interupts) Mommy's!
PF&HS: sorry, "Mommy's" chicken nuggets?
ZP: Oh no Mr. Pitchfork, I also love the color green!! It's my favorite crayon in the Crayola box! This one time I got a Shrek coloring book, and he's green so you can imagine my excitement! So I signed with a team with a green jersey!
PF&HS: You do realize that the home jersey for the Wild is maroon right?
ZP: (puzzled) Next question!
PF&HS: Ok, Zachary, so far you have told me you went to the Wild because you like green and your Mommy's chicken nuggets. Is there any REAL reason you left?
ZP: Well, I love going on vacation during the Spring. And going to Minnesota guarantees it! It'll be nice to just relax during April, May, and June instead of working to get that dinky trophy!
PF&HS: Dinky trophy?
ZP: Yea, it's too heavy. Weighs like 40 pounds. I don't really want it anyway. It's overrated. I'll get it eventually. Maybe my son will win it and bring it home or something.
PF&HS: OK, well on that note I think we're just about wrapped up here. Thanks for joining me Mr. Parise. We'll miss you in NJ. Thanks for coming.
ZP: My pleasure! Hey you need a ride home? Heatley is picking me up and he can drive you home!
PF&HS: Uhh no thanks!
NO KIDDING IT'S FAKE! AT LEAST I ADMIT IT! WHO DO YOU THINK I AM? THE HOCKEY INSIDER?
PF&HS: How you doin' today Zach?
Zach Parise: Doin' great. I just got back golfing with my Daddy.
PF&HS: Well, that's nice. So Zach let's cut right to the chase. Can you elaborate on your decision of abandon er I mean... leave New Jersey to go to Minnesota.
ZP: I decided that my parents needed me at home. Can't ever beat my Mommy's cooking. She makes the best chicken nuggets ever! They're Purdue!!!
PF&HS: OK, so you're saying the only reason you signed with the Wild is because you... Like your Mother's-
ZP: (interupts) Mommy's!
PF&HS: sorry, "Mommy's" chicken nuggets?
ZP: Oh no Mr. Pitchfork, I also love the color green!! It's my favorite crayon in the Crayola box! This one time I got a Shrek coloring book, and he's green so you can imagine my excitement! So I signed with a team with a green jersey!
PF&HS: You do realize that the home jersey for the Wild is maroon right?
ZP: (puzzled) Next question!
PF&HS: Ok, Zachary, so far you have told me you went to the Wild because you like green and your Mommy's chicken nuggets. Is there any REAL reason you left?
ZP: Well, I love going on vacation during the Spring. And going to Minnesota guarantees it! It'll be nice to just relax during April, May, and June instead of working to get that dinky trophy!
PF&HS: Dinky trophy?
ZP: Yea, it's too heavy. Weighs like 40 pounds. I don't really want it anyway. It's overrated. I'll get it eventually. Maybe my son will win it and bring it home or something.
PF&HS: OK, well on that note I think we're just about wrapped up here. Thanks for joining me Mr. Parise. We'll miss you in NJ. Thanks for coming.
ZP: My pleasure! Hey you need a ride home? Heatley is picking me up and he can drive you home!
PF&HS: Uhh no thanks!
NO KIDDING IT'S FAKE! AT LEAST I ADMIT IT! WHO DO YOU THINK I AM? THE HOCKEY INSIDER?
Wednesday, June 27, 2012
How I picture this Nash thing ending. It ain't pretty!
July 1st, 2012
03:24 AM
9 hours 36 minutes until FA deadline
Columbus, OH
All the GM's except Scott Howson, GM of the Columbus Blue Jackets, are sitting in a white empty room with no doors nor windows.
Lou Lamoriello (Devils): What the hell? Where are we?
Glen Sather (Rangers): I don't know.
Ray Shero (Pittsburgh): I don't know either, but I do know this is somehow Paul Holmgren's fault.
Paul Holmgren (Flyers): Oh go suck on Crosby's.... *twitch* My trade senses are tingling. Must... trade... away... our... best... backup... goalie.... for.. no... reason....
Mike Gillis (Vancouver): Does he always do that?
Ray Shero: constantly.
All of a sudden Scott Howson teleports into the front of the room. All the GMs look on in disbelief and fear.
Glen Sather: Oh god... *facepalm* I knew this would happen eventually.
Scott Howson: Gentlemen, I have called you here to discuss Rick Nash. And as you all can see there are no windows nor doors in this room. I know the way out. The only way you will learn the way out is if we can come to a fair and just decision on Rick Nash, the greatest player in the NHL since forever!
Dean Lombardi (Kings): Scotty, listen, we all want Nash on our team. But you're asking so much. I mean, he's great but... He's like... Not hockey Buddha! There are players better in the NHL tod-
Scott Howson: SILENCE!!! *Gets right in Lombardi's face* NASH FOR BROWN, QUICK, KOPITAR, RICHARDS, CARTER, AND 3 DRAFT PICKS!!!! AGREED!?
Dean Lombardi: ...*puzzled look* no?
Howson pulls out a .45 and shoots Lombardi in the leg
Bob Murray (Anaheim): hahahaha!
Dean Lobardi: WHAT WAS THAT FOR!?
Scott Howson: I grow tired! AGREE! That trade is fair and just!!!
Dean Lombardi: Listen. Scotty, you and I have been good friends this year. Remember?
Howson shoots Lombardi in the head
Scott Howson: Don't EVER doubt the will of Rick Nash!!!!! WHO'S NEXT!? How about you Glen!?
Glen Sather: Oh Jesus!
Scott Howson: Rick Nash... For Kreider, Gaborik, Del Zotto, Richards, and Lundqvist!
Glen Sather: Why would I do that I don't even have a backup goalie signed yet?
Howson points the gun in between Sather's eyes
Lou Lamoriello: Howson don't you think this has gone on long enough?
Scott Howson: NO! I wouldn't trade with YOU anyway! WHY WOULD I TRADE WITH A GM WHO DOESN'T EVEN BELIEVE IN TWITTER!?
Lou Lamoriello: I will give you David Clarkson, Marek Zidlicky, the rights to Ryan Carter, and the 4th round pick. For Rick Nash, and a 5th round pick next year.
Howson walks over to Lamoriello
Scott Howson: How dare you. You old fool! You expect me to trade away the greatest player in the world for a fool WHO CAN'T EVEN STAY ON HIS SKATES!? NO SIR!!
Scott Howson: Now Glen, what if I took off Lundqvist but you give me your 1st round picks for the next 3 years?
Glen Sather: No Scotty!
Scott Howson: very well. *Shoots him in the head* Now that we have exhausted the alternatives, I am now going to go down the list ABC order!
Bob Murray: I am not giving up Hiller or Getzlaf. Nor the rights to Selanne.
Scott Howson: what about Nash for Ryan, Hiller, and all your draft picks next year. I'll even throw in a draft pick of my own. The 7th round pick of the 2045 NHL entry draft. Agree? *points gun at his head* And I would agree. Because I loooove Duck hunting.
Bob Murray: I'm so tired of that jo-
Howson shoots him in the head, looks down the list, decides no team in the East is to his liking so he kills every Eastern GM except for Lamoriello, Shero, and Holmgren.
Scott Howson: I like you Atlantic Division folk. I'm saving you till the end. Sather is dead because he tested my patience to it's limit. Rick Nash is the greatest player in NHL history. And to not be jumping on the idea of having him is insane.
Ray Shero: What about Snow?! He was an Atlantic Division GM too!
Scott Howson: It's the Islanders. They count less than anyone in the NHL.
Joe Nieuwendyk (Dallas): Scott, your team is the laughing stock of the NHL. And you're the reason. You have one good player who wants to leave, a goalie who fell apart after his rookie season, and that's about it. You kidnap us, tie us up in here, hold us at GUNPOINT, more than HALF of us are dead! And you expect us to negotiate a deal for Rick Nash? I speak for everyone left here when I say that Rick is a great player, but nowhere near the skill that you are asking for with these trades.
Scott Howson: *angered* Mr. Nieuwendyk, you are one of the youngest GMs in NHL history, you won 3 Cups in your lifetime with 3 different teams. One was with him *points at Lou*, but you didn't play in that Final did you Joey? Did you?!
Joe Nieuwendyk: No Scott I didn't. I was hurt.
Scott Howson: And when Brett Hull scored in 1999 OT. He was in the crease illegally correct? *points the gun at his head*
Joe Nieuwendyk: Some people claim he was, yes. I didn't get a good view of the goal so I don't know.
Scott Howson: Well, let me assure you. That when Rick Nash wins his 20 Cups, not one will be controversial for him. Now, Mike Ribiero for Rick Nash.
Joe Niewendyk: That's it? Just Mike Rib- *realizes he just traded him away a few days ago* Oh crap...
Howson shoots him in the head. He then kills every West GM except Ken Holland (Detroit)
Scott Howson: Kenny, our teams have been division rivals for over 25 years.
Ken Holland (Detroit): You guys have only been around for 12.
Scott Howson: No matter. You are the one that I am most wanting to trade with. And I-
Paul Holmgren: BRYZGALOV, GIROUX, AND SCHENN FOR PATRICK EAVES!!!!
Ken Holland: uhh sure *big smile*
Scott Howson shoots Holmgren in the head
Scott Howson: Well he's pointless now. Kenny, I'll come back to you later! Ray, let's make this quick and painless. I want Crosby, Malkin, and Fl-... On second thought, just Malkin and Crosby.
Ray Shero: I will give you Fleury, Martin, and next year's third round pick. For Rick Nash, James Wisniewski, and the 6th round pick of 2013.
Howson shoots him in the chest multiple times
Scott Howson: I said... Let's make this quick and painless!!! BUT YOU CHOSE THE WRONG WAY!!!
Ray Shero: *signals Lou to come in closer* You have to know.... *cough cough*... Tell Sidney.... I love him....... *dies*
Lou Lamoriello: Why have you not killed me yet?
Scott Howson: Because I'm saving you for last. Kenny I will give you-
Ken Holland: I will give you... uhh... *has an idea and smirks* Claude Giroux, Ilya Brygalov, Brayden Schenn, and uhhh Dan Cleary! AND uh uh... My 2nd round pick! For Rick Nash!!!
Scott Howson: *smiles* see how easy that was? You got yourself a deal! *shoots Lamoriello in the head*
Lou Lamoriello instantly wakes up in a pool of sweat
Lou Lamoriello: *panting* it was just a nightmare! *turns on the light*
Scott Howson is standing there with a knife over his bed
Scott Howson: GUESS AGAIN!!!
This was strictly satirical. I in no way, shape, or form feel that Scott Howson is murderous. I do however feel he is absolutely nuts to demand such a high price for Rick Nash. Obviously these trade requests are fake, not even Howson is stupid enough to try and get Crosby and Malkin for Nash. Don't ever take anything that I post seriously. I made a prediction that Cam Janssen would win the Conn Smythe for God sakes!
Wednesday, June 20, 2012
Sorry about the wait, folks!
Ok, sorry guys. It's been forever since I have posted. Main reason? Been busy with other things: vacations, parties, weddings, ect. Well, I want to give my 5 cents on the last two series matchups for the Devils. First let's start with the Rangers. I promise I won't go too deep into it since it's old news. But how sweet was it to have a little bit of retribution for '94? I thought it felt pretty damn good. The series itself was awesome. Every game was played like a game 7. New Jersey was flat out the better team game in and game out even in the games they lost. Lundqvist won those games for them.
Now, on to LA. This series went like this:
"Crap! eh, that sucks. But we'll get em next game." to
"Are you serious!? AGAIN IN OVERTIME!?" to
"Oh my God this game 3 is pathetic! I cannot believe they are about to be swept!" to
"Well our sweepless streak stays alive. But I'm forced to watch another game of this garbage!" to
"Uhhh, can we actually do this?" to
"Well that was fun while it lasted!"
Now, everyone has something to say about the hit by Bernier. Well, it was a dirty hit yes. But it shouldn't have even happened. We all know why. We all know what happened a few seconds prior to the hit. It's a story that's been beaten to death with "what if"s. "What if that penalty had been called on Stoll?" "What if the Devils had scored on that power play?" You can argue the "what if"s all day long (trust me, I have) but it still doesn't change the fact that it was called the way it was called and the game went the way it went. The penalty deflated us in that game. Our PK which was record breaking in the regular season was a disaster in the playoffs. Regardless of the 5 minute major, 3 goals on a major PP is just pathetic. The most lopsided Stanley Cup decider in 21 years since Pittsburgh tore through the North Stars.
Now on to business about the offseason: Marty, Zach, Draft, UFA, CBA, and financial trouble. Phew, where the hell do I begin?
Martin Brodeur: If he comes back for another year it will be very interesting to see how long and how much. He has openly stated he understands New Jersey's first priority is signing Parise to a long-term deal. I feel that Marty can be a fantastic mentor for Frazee or Kinkaid this upcoming season if he decides to resign with us. So yes, I will answer that question right now: Moose will not return to NJ next year. In my opinion of course. We'll miss him though.
Zach Parise: This is the story that's eating at our brains for the past calendar year. How are we going to afford such a superstar player on our budget? Well, here's 3 main reasons he will get signed by NJ within the next 10 days.
1. We have the money to do it. Yes, our team is in financial turmoil. But our cap space is high.
2. It's Lou Lamoriello we are talking about. The best GM in the East if not the entire NHL. He'll get it done!
and 3. He WANTS to stay.
Draft: Remember when I said Lou is the best GM in the NHL? (If you don't remember, well, you might want to get that checked out) Well, this is an instance where I look at this and say "what the hell were you thinking Lou?" We need to sacrifice a first round pick next year no matter what now. Instead of just sacrificing the 29th pick this year!!! Makes no sense to me!
Free Agents: We have a bunch we need to sign, not just Parise. Salvador is the big one other than Zach. Like I said we have some cap space to play with. As far as signing UFA other than our boys, I don;t see any major one happening. Devils might make a fight for Suter but it won't come through. In fact I think the Predators will keep a hold on him.
CBA: I have no comment. Don't screw me out of another season. That is all. Goodbye!
Financial difficulties: Ok, we are a young franchise. We really are. We come in with a dynasty in full swing. A team coming off it's glory years in Philly. And the Rangers have already established themselves as a historic team with 3 Cups. So of course some people will be reluctant to embrace a new team right smack dab in the middle of all of that. It's a shame though. Gary Bettman has said he will take control of the team if Jeff Vanderbeek wished. This will allow the Devils to stay intact until they found a new owner. That new owner can....... gulp... move the team anywhere he/she wants. (Which won't happen but that is the worst case scenario).
So, that was my longest post haha. But I was so far behind I needed to get this stuff out. More to come with signings and whatnot.
Now, on to LA. This series went like this:
"Crap! eh, that sucks. But we'll get em next game." to
"Are you serious!? AGAIN IN OVERTIME!?" to
"Oh my God this game 3 is pathetic! I cannot believe they are about to be swept!" to
"Well our sweepless streak stays alive. But I'm forced to watch another game of this garbage!" to
"Uhhh, can we actually do this?" to
"Well that was fun while it lasted!"
Now, everyone has something to say about the hit by Bernier. Well, it was a dirty hit yes. But it shouldn't have even happened. We all know why. We all know what happened a few seconds prior to the hit. It's a story that's been beaten to death with "what if"s. "What if that penalty had been called on Stoll?" "What if the Devils had scored on that power play?" You can argue the "what if"s all day long (trust me, I have) but it still doesn't change the fact that it was called the way it was called and the game went the way it went. The penalty deflated us in that game. Our PK which was record breaking in the regular season was a disaster in the playoffs. Regardless of the 5 minute major, 3 goals on a major PP is just pathetic. The most lopsided Stanley Cup decider in 21 years since Pittsburgh tore through the North Stars.
Now on to business about the offseason: Marty, Zach, Draft, UFA, CBA, and financial trouble. Phew, where the hell do I begin?
Martin Brodeur: If he comes back for another year it will be very interesting to see how long and how much. He has openly stated he understands New Jersey's first priority is signing Parise to a long-term deal. I feel that Marty can be a fantastic mentor for Frazee or Kinkaid this upcoming season if he decides to resign with us. So yes, I will answer that question right now: Moose will not return to NJ next year. In my opinion of course. We'll miss him though.
Zach Parise: This is the story that's eating at our brains for the past calendar year. How are we going to afford such a superstar player on our budget? Well, here's 3 main reasons he will get signed by NJ within the next 10 days.
1. We have the money to do it. Yes, our team is in financial turmoil. But our cap space is high.
2. It's Lou Lamoriello we are talking about. The best GM in the East if not the entire NHL. He'll get it done!
and 3. He WANTS to stay.
Draft: Remember when I said Lou is the best GM in the NHL? (If you don't remember, well, you might want to get that checked out) Well, this is an instance where I look at this and say "what the hell were you thinking Lou?" We need to sacrifice a first round pick next year no matter what now. Instead of just sacrificing the 29th pick this year!!! Makes no sense to me!
Free Agents: We have a bunch we need to sign, not just Parise. Salvador is the big one other than Zach. Like I said we have some cap space to play with. As far as signing UFA other than our boys, I don;t see any major one happening. Devils might make a fight for Suter but it won't come through. In fact I think the Predators will keep a hold on him.
CBA: I have no comment. Don't screw me out of another season. That is all. Goodbye!
Financial difficulties: Ok, we are a young franchise. We really are. We come in with a dynasty in full swing. A team coming off it's glory years in Philly. And the Rangers have already established themselves as a historic team with 3 Cups. So of course some people will be reluctant to embrace a new team right smack dab in the middle of all of that. It's a shame though. Gary Bettman has said he will take control of the team if Jeff Vanderbeek wished. This will allow the Devils to stay intact until they found a new owner. That new owner can....... gulp... move the team anywhere he/she wants. (Which won't happen but that is the worst case scenario).
So, that was my longest post haha. But I was so far behind I needed to get this stuff out. More to come with signings and whatnot.
Sunday, May 13, 2012
The rematch of a lifetime!!!
It was called the greatest conference final in NHL history. 1994. The year the Garden State forgot. The name Stephane Matteau is a name that sends chills of hate and frustration through our skulls. Every team has that one name. Red Sox have Bill Buckner. The Mets have Luis Castillo.
But let's take an honest look at these two upcoming series matchups.
#1 New York Rangers VS. #6 New Jersey Devils
Losing is not an option. In the case of Florida we just wanted to see the second round for once. The second round we didn't want the Flyers to beat us again. But this round is the big one. The rematch we've all been dreading. But I feel we can pull this one out if we continue our forecheck. The Rangers rely heavily on blocked shots. Hank doesn't do well with deflections. maybe we can use that to our advantage. The special teams favor us. The scoring favors us. So there is no reason we should be eliminated this series. But of course it will not be easy. At least 2 or more of these battles will need more than 60 minutes. This is going to be the most grueling 2 weeks of our lives as hockey fans. I say Devils win it in 7. A close fought, hard nosed, seven game series.
Game 1 in NY: Devils win
Game 2 in NY: Rangers win
Game 3 in NJ: Rangers win
Game 4 in NJ: Devils win
Game 5 in NY: Rangers win
Game 6 in NJ: Devils win
Game 7 in NY: Devils win
PLEASE!!! FOR THE LOVE OF GOD!!!!!!
#3 Phoenix Coyotes VS #8 Los Angeles Kings
Kings are going to tear apart the desert. That's all I got to say. Whitney and Doan will score a few and Smith will make some key saves. But the Kings are too powerful on both ends. Doughty, Richards, and Brown are just too good. Not to mention Jonathan Quick playing crazy!
Game 1 in PHO: Kings win
Game 2 in PHO: Kings win
Game 3 in LA: Kings win
Game 4 in LA: Coyotes win
Game 5 in PHO: Kings win
But let's take an honest look at these two upcoming series matchups.
Losing is not an option. In the case of Florida we just wanted to see the second round for once. The second round we didn't want the Flyers to beat us again. But this round is the big one. The rematch we've all been dreading. But I feel we can pull this one out if we continue our forecheck. The Rangers rely heavily on blocked shots. Hank doesn't do well with deflections. maybe we can use that to our advantage. The special teams favor us. The scoring favors us. So there is no reason we should be eliminated this series. But of course it will not be easy. At least 2 or more of these battles will need more than 60 minutes. This is going to be the most grueling 2 weeks of our lives as hockey fans. I say Devils win it in 7. A close fought, hard nosed, seven game series.
Game 1 in NY: Devils win
Game 2 in NY: Rangers win
Game 3 in NJ: Rangers win
Game 4 in NJ: Devils win
Game 5 in NY: Rangers win
Game 6 in NJ: Devils win
Game 7 in NY: Devils win
PLEASE!!! FOR THE LOVE OF GOD!!!!!!
#3 Phoenix Coyotes VS #8 Los Angeles Kings
Kings are going to tear apart the desert. That's all I got to say. Whitney and Doan will score a few and Smith will make some key saves. But the Kings are too powerful on both ends. Doughty, Richards, and Brown are just too good. Not to mention Jonathan Quick playing crazy!
Game 1 in PHO: Kings win
Game 2 in PHO: Kings win
Game 3 in LA: Kings win
Game 4 in LA: Coyotes win
Game 5 in PHO: Kings win
Wednesday, May 9, 2012
This Blog is Cursed I Guess!
Ya know, I decided to ease off on the posting during this series until at least game 4. I said to myself "I'm not posting on here until after game 4" because for some reason whenever I post they lose or at least play badly the following game. Leading me to believe (we all know superstition is a big part of the NHL playoffs) that this blog is cursed. Either that, or I was just too lazy. But when the Devils went up 3-1 I said I will wait to post until after the series is over. And now it is.
We can now look at this and think how we were one shot away from sweeping these guys. It was a breath of fresh air how we were able to rid these guys so quickly. Especially after the nail-biter of the first round against Florida.
The forecheck won the series for the Devils and I feel that they will play the same way against New York or Washington. Of course I'm pulling for the Caps, because we've had their number for years now and also it would be nice to be rid of the Rangers for good. However, a rematch of 1994 would certainly be an exciting series. Even if it were to be a sweep for either team it'd still be a crazy series just because of how strategically similar we are to NY.
We'll see who the Devils face and I will once again most likely not post at all during that series until it was over. At this point, the Cup seems a possible goal. But being in the final four after the atrocity that was the 2011 season preceded by three straight first round losses is still a great feat.
But let's talk about the series against Philly game by game.
Game 1: we should've won. Plain and simple. There was no reason why we let in two goals in OT by the same player. This is when the cockiness started of Flyer fans. They were riding so high on the Pens series that they felt themselves invincible. Their downfall!
Game 2: We were without Kovy. And you knew it, Pierre McGuire said it about 50 times every period. The Devils rallied behind that fact with their backs up against the wall. It was the 3rd time in the playoffs that they were down by a game and looked very comfortable in that position. They sustained pressure and were the much better team for 55 minutes of the game. And that's the word I've used most in these playoffs: sustain. Flyers just looked flat and Bryz was getting peppered. He let in three goals but he looked great. The forwards of Philly have no idea what to do in their defensive zone and it clearly showed. No back-checking at all. This is something New Jersey does better than anyone. Larsson finally found a dent in the armor of BryzgaLOLov and tied the game. Followed by the funniest Clarkson goal in history (Or so we thought was the funniest ever until last night). Even Salvador scored on an empty net.
Game 3: Once again the Devils were in control, but Bryz wasn't bad. His defense was. The Flyers just looked flat all game but were able to force OT. Then, the man I said would break out soon scored and we won. Alexei Ponikarovsky is this year's Alexander Mogliny for us. We got him for almost nothing and has been a tremendous part of our depth. Now on a line with Kovy and he has thrived there with his fellow Soviet. Now if only Zubrus was on a line with them. I'd call it the Red Army Line.
Game 4: When we went down 2-0 I knew they would come back. I just didn't know how. But even I didn't think it'd be that fast. The Flyers lead lasted only a few minutes. Then Zubrus scored. This goal marked the beginning of the dirty play by Philly. AFTER the puck was in Hartnell game a shove at Zubie. If it was Malkin, Crosby, or Neal, it would've been a scrum. This is when I realized that New Jersey wasn't going to play Broad Street hockey. The Flyers frustrations started to build until it all came to a head with none other than the "greatest player in the world" Claude Giroux. He was mad about not getting a call on Fayne so he turned his back to the play, screamed at the ref, pointed at the ref as he skated away as if to say "watch this", then cheap shots Zubrus late, smiling as he did it. I had so much respect for Giroux until that moment. This is when the Flyers started to really get frustrated and let their emotions which WON them a series against Pittsburgh get the better of them.
Game 5: No Giroux! No Giroux! The Flyers lost, but did I mention no Giroux? For the love of God shut up about Claude Giroux! I was so happy the way the Devils played. Forchecking was there, the consistency was there, and the goaltending was there. All things you need to win a Cup. Clarkson scored that goal and I ran around the house laughing my @$$ off. That was amazing! But it was because there was no Giroux! I love how the NBC Network made sure this game was alllll about A) Giroux being out. And B) The Flyers losing. It became more about how the Flyers lost than how the Devils won. Face it! The Devils outplayed Philly all series long including game 1. Pierre McGuire, you sir, are a joke!
We can now look at this and think how we were one shot away from sweeping these guys. It was a breath of fresh air how we were able to rid these guys so quickly. Especially after the nail-biter of the first round against Florida.
The forecheck won the series for the Devils and I feel that they will play the same way against New York or Washington. Of course I'm pulling for the Caps, because we've had their number for years now and also it would be nice to be rid of the Rangers for good. However, a rematch of 1994 would certainly be an exciting series. Even if it were to be a sweep for either team it'd still be a crazy series just because of how strategically similar we are to NY.
We'll see who the Devils face and I will once again most likely not post at all during that series until it was over. At this point, the Cup seems a possible goal. But being in the final four after the atrocity that was the 2011 season preceded by three straight first round losses is still a great feat.
But let's talk about the series against Philly game by game.
Game 1: we should've won. Plain and simple. There was no reason why we let in two goals in OT by the same player. This is when the cockiness started of Flyer fans. They were riding so high on the Pens series that they felt themselves invincible. Their downfall!
Game 2: We were without Kovy. And you knew it, Pierre McGuire said it about 50 times every period. The Devils rallied behind that fact with their backs up against the wall. It was the 3rd time in the playoffs that they were down by a game and looked very comfortable in that position. They sustained pressure and were the much better team for 55 minutes of the game. And that's the word I've used most in these playoffs: sustain. Flyers just looked flat and Bryz was getting peppered. He let in three goals but he looked great. The forwards of Philly have no idea what to do in their defensive zone and it clearly showed. No back-checking at all. This is something New Jersey does better than anyone. Larsson finally found a dent in the armor of BryzgaLOLov and tied the game. Followed by the funniest Clarkson goal in history (Or so we thought was the funniest ever until last night). Even Salvador scored on an empty net.
Game 3: Once again the Devils were in control, but Bryz wasn't bad. His defense was. The Flyers just looked flat all game but were able to force OT. Then, the man I said would break out soon scored and we won. Alexei Ponikarovsky is this year's Alexander Mogliny for us. We got him for almost nothing and has been a tremendous part of our depth. Now on a line with Kovy and he has thrived there with his fellow Soviet. Now if only Zubrus was on a line with them. I'd call it the Red Army Line.
Game 4: When we went down 2-0 I knew they would come back. I just didn't know how. But even I didn't think it'd be that fast. The Flyers lead lasted only a few minutes. Then Zubrus scored. This goal marked the beginning of the dirty play by Philly. AFTER the puck was in Hartnell game a shove at Zubie. If it was Malkin, Crosby, or Neal, it would've been a scrum. This is when I realized that New Jersey wasn't going to play Broad Street hockey. The Flyers frustrations started to build until it all came to a head with none other than the "greatest player in the world" Claude Giroux. He was mad about not getting a call on Fayne so he turned his back to the play, screamed at the ref, pointed at the ref as he skated away as if to say "watch this", then cheap shots Zubrus late, smiling as he did it. I had so much respect for Giroux until that moment. This is when the Flyers started to really get frustrated and let their emotions which WON them a series against Pittsburgh get the better of them.
Game 5: No Giroux! No Giroux! The Flyers lost, but did I mention no Giroux? For the love of God shut up about Claude Giroux! I was so happy the way the Devils played. Forchecking was there, the consistency was there, and the goaltending was there. All things you need to win a Cup. Clarkson scored that goal and I ran around the house laughing my @$$ off. That was amazing! But it was because there was no Giroux! I love how the NBC Network made sure this game was alllll about A) Giroux being out. And B) The Flyers losing. It became more about how the Flyers lost than how the Devils won. Face it! The Devils outplayed Philly all series long including game 1. Pierre McGuire, you sir, are a joke!
Saturday, April 28, 2012
Cinco de Mayo 2007, Last May Hockey for NJ Until Now
Well we did it! The final 8!!! A quarter of the way there. After a dismal playoff-less season flanked by 3 straight 1st round exits, we finally can say we are playing May hockey. Henrique blew my mind wide open when that goal was scored to win the series. I actually felt sicker and sicker as the OT continued on. John Madden almost put us away but Marty was not getting beat.
Here are my predictions for round 2 which is MUCH more confusing than the 1st round. Just a quick side note. Has anyone else but me noticed that each team in the final 8 is a different seed number than the others? (1 is NYR, 2 is STL, 3 is PHX, ect.):
#1 NY Rangers VS. #7 Washington Capitals:
Game 1 is in progress and currently 1-0 NY in the second period. The Caps and Rangers playoff battle seems to be an annual event. Caps usually take it from NY and perhaps that might happen again. There is one major difference this time. The goalie for the Capitals is on fire. Brayden Holtby seemed to come out of nowhere. Well, maybe it's because he did. Saskatchewan to be exact. He has become a major part of the Capitals core and was able to eliminate Thomas the Tank Engine and his Bruins in round one. But where Thomas was great, Henry is even better. I think this one will go 7 with a win for the Rangers.
Game 1 in NY: Rangers win
Game 2 in NY: Rangers win
Game 3 in WSH: Capitals win
Game 4 in WSH: Capitals win
Game 5 in NY: Capitals win
Game 6 in WSH: Rangers win
Game 7 in NY: Rangers win
#5 Philadelphia Flyers VS. #6 New Jersey Devils
This is going to be either a REALLY easy series or a REALLY hard series. Giroux is dominating the playoff scoring BUT Bryzgalov is a sieve. If Marty, Bryce, and Greene can shut down Giroux and Jagr, we might have a good chance. But it won't come easy. A lot of Flyers' fans are overlooking NJ and already thinking about the Caps and Rangers. Let's give em a rude awakening. Don't underestimate the Devils! I am obligated to predict a Devils' victory in the series. But truth be told I'm not so sure. It depends on Marty, Bryz, Giroux, and Kovy. This series could really go either way. But I predict a Devils win in 6.
Game 1 in PHI: Devils win'
Game 2 in PHI: Flyers win
Game 3 in NJ: Devils win
Game 4 in NJ: Devils win
Game 5 in PHI: Flyers win
Game 6 in NJ: Devils win
#2 St Louis Blues VS #8 Los Angeles Kings
The Kings shocked the hockey world by eliminating the President's Trophy winners without much difficulty. We may have even seen our final game of Luongo in a Canuck jersey. As far as this series goes, I think LA will win this. Yes, I am going with the 8th place team. The goaltending of Jonathan Quick has been crazy. Yes Elliot is a great goalie but Quick is much better. I think this one will end in 5.
Game 1 in STL: Kings win
Game 2 in STL: Blues win
Game 3 in LA: Kings win
Game 4 in LA: Kings win
Game 5 in STL: King win
#3 Phoenix Coyotes VS #4 Nashville Predators
Phoenix has relied wayyyy too much on OT. I thought this series would be a simple sweep for the Predators. However last night the Coyotes won it in OT to take a lead 1-0. This changed my prediction. I think that since the Yotes are quite literally playing for their lives as a hockey team, they will be extra charged heading into this round. Coyotes in 7 in what is going to be a goaltending duel between Rinne and Smith.
Game 1 in PHX: Coyotes win
Game 2 in PHX: Predators win
Game 3 in NSH: Predators win
Game 4 in NSH: Coyotes win
Game 5 in PHX: Coyotes win
Game 6 in NSH: Predators win
Game 7 in PHX: Coyotes win
Here are my predictions for round 2 which is MUCH more confusing than the 1st round. Just a quick side note. Has anyone else but me noticed that each team in the final 8 is a different seed number than the others? (1 is NYR, 2 is STL, 3 is PHX, ect.):
#1 NY Rangers VS. #7 Washington Capitals:
Game 1 is in progress and currently 1-0 NY in the second period. The Caps and Rangers playoff battle seems to be an annual event. Caps usually take it from NY and perhaps that might happen again. There is one major difference this time. The goalie for the Capitals is on fire. Brayden Holtby seemed to come out of nowhere. Well, maybe it's because he did. Saskatchewan to be exact. He has become a major part of the Capitals core and was able to eliminate Thomas the Tank Engine and his Bruins in round one. But where Thomas was great, Henry is even better. I think this one will go 7 with a win for the Rangers.
Game 1 in NY: Rangers win
Game 2 in NY: Rangers win
Game 3 in WSH: Capitals win
Game 4 in WSH: Capitals win
Game 5 in NY: Capitals win
Game 6 in WSH: Rangers win
Game 7 in NY: Rangers win
#5 Philadelphia Flyers VS. #6 New Jersey Devils
This is going to be either a REALLY easy series or a REALLY hard series. Giroux is dominating the playoff scoring BUT Bryzgalov is a sieve. If Marty, Bryce, and Greene can shut down Giroux and Jagr, we might have a good chance. But it won't come easy. A lot of Flyers' fans are overlooking NJ and already thinking about the Caps and Rangers. Let's give em a rude awakening. Don't underestimate the Devils! I am obligated to predict a Devils' victory in the series. But truth be told I'm not so sure. It depends on Marty, Bryz, Giroux, and Kovy. This series could really go either way. But I predict a Devils win in 6.
Game 1 in PHI: Devils win'
Game 2 in PHI: Flyers win
Game 3 in NJ: Devils win
Game 4 in NJ: Devils win
Game 5 in PHI: Flyers win
Game 6 in NJ: Devils win
#2 St Louis Blues VS #8 Los Angeles Kings
The Kings shocked the hockey world by eliminating the President's Trophy winners without much difficulty. We may have even seen our final game of Luongo in a Canuck jersey. As far as this series goes, I think LA will win this. Yes, I am going with the 8th place team. The goaltending of Jonathan Quick has been crazy. Yes Elliot is a great goalie but Quick is much better. I think this one will end in 5.
Game 1 in STL: Kings win
Game 2 in STL: Blues win
Game 3 in LA: Kings win
Game 4 in LA: Kings win
Game 5 in STL: King win
#3 Phoenix Coyotes VS #4 Nashville Predators
Phoenix has relied wayyyy too much on OT. I thought this series would be a simple sweep for the Predators. However last night the Coyotes won it in OT to take a lead 1-0. This changed my prediction. I think that since the Yotes are quite literally playing for their lives as a hockey team, they will be extra charged heading into this round. Coyotes in 7 in what is going to be a goaltending duel between Rinne and Smith.
Game 1 in PHX: Coyotes win
Game 2 in PHX: Predators win
Game 3 in NSH: Predators win
Game 4 in NSH: Coyotes win
Game 5 in PHX: Coyotes win
Game 6 in NSH: Predators win
Game 7 in PHX: Coyotes win
Wednesday, April 25, 2012
Time to Prove the Haters Wrong!
Game #7. We didn't WANT to be here a week and a half ago, but we are. Over the past 2 weeks the Panthers have become a rival. Both on the ice and off. A now famous Twitter war has sprung. Controversies concerning plastic rodentia have caused a spark amongst fans. And blind-side plays have caused post-whistle scrap after post-whistle scrap. And even a fellow Devils Twitterer (Tweeter? Twit? Tweeterian?) being ejected from the Rock. I will actually go out on a limb and say they have taken the place of those damn Hurricanes as our little thorns in our sides from down South.
The cockiness of the Panthers official Twitter have actually caused me to get angry. I mean, it's a minor complaint, but at least show a LITTLE bit of sportsmanship. "Things are getting chirpy. Note to the #NJDevils, if you go after Weiss, the #FlaPanthers might get feisty." Just things like that. Another interesting note on Twitter is this Michael Yormark thing. The President of the Panthers openly stated (he had a chance to revoke this... It's called the backspace button) it was Devils' fans who started throwing the rats during game 5. Wait... WHAT?! You simply ask, "how do you know?" or "Who said?" and Mikey gets all defensive apparently. A fellow Devils fan, Lauren, on Twitter learned that the hard way. She called him out on it and he made fun of how many Twitter followers she had............
..... I will repeat that.....
A man... A grown up man... Grown... Up.... Man.... played the Twitter follower card to a girl. I wish I was making this up. But, in an act of vengeance by fellow fans, Lauren then started to find her Twitter follower count rise. Until finally, just a few minutes ago, it surpassed Michael Yormark's follower count. There is poetic justice in the Devils world. Lauren, PF&HS salutes you!
Another person who has actually openly stated his hatred towards NJ in the past, Jeremy Roenick, had this to say. And I quote: "I have no problem saying that this is probably the least intriguing series of the playoffs, and probably the least exciting in terms of the fighting, the physicality and the speed.
However, it is exciting that Florida keeps battling back from deficits. The Panthers go down 3-0 and battle back to win Game 3. They're down 2-0 in Game 6 and battle back to tie it only to lose in overtime.
I just think it's the Panthers' turn. It's their year. They haven't won a series since 1996 and this team is resilient. But they have to play more intense and be more aggressive than they were in Game 6. They sat back. They tried to not make mistakes and it ended up burning them in the end.
Home-ice advantage will be huge for them and getting Jose Theodore back in net, if his injury is healed, is also big.
Scott Clemmensen played well in Game 6, but he wasn't tested much. A lot of the shots were from the outside, from the corner, pucks just thrown at the net. I don't think he was tested all but two or three times, and he let up a weak goal to Steve Bernier and probably could have had the winning goal by Travis Zajac. I guess all in all he played pretty sound, but if Jose can go, he should be in the net.
Dale Tallon has put together a team that might be able to get this done. It's a 51-49 shot for me and I'm going to the home ice. "
Ok, let's go through this step by step: 1. if you think a series is boring, you don't SAY it! You work for the NHL you idiot!!!! 2. "Scott Clemmensen played well in Game 6, but he wasn't tested much." Your brain can fight that allllllllll you want. But APPARENTLY 42 shots on goal, 39 saves.... is NOT BEING TESTED! Um OK! JR, take more than 5 minutes to write a post! I do for crying out loud! And I'm just starting out as a blogger.
I know I drifted off from what a I wanted to originally post about which WAS game 6. But so much has happened since that I can't keep up. Game 6 was a great hockey game if you were a fan or not. And Zajac left for a few minutes and his return was in doubt. He returned shortly thereafter and got a partial break. Then in OT he lit the lamp to send this series back to Sunrise, FL. My next post will either be one of joy, admiration, and ranting about the crying of the Panthers. Or of heartbreak. We will see.
Sunday, April 22, 2012
What the hell is going on?
I was going to post a new post after each series. I mean, it IS the Panthers we are dealing with. It's not Philly, Pittsburgh, or New York. It's the Florida Panthers. But that raises the question. What are the Devils doing out there as we stare down on elimination in a series none of us even thought would go past game 4? I decided to try to put into perspective 5 things that have been wrong with our team this series and what needs to be improved by Tuesday or we will once again pull out the shaving cream early on in the playoffs.
#5. The Officiating OK, the Devils have been known to be screwed over in the playoffs by refs before. '08 against NY that icing call during a PK that cost the Devils the series. '09 in Carolina we had that clear goalie interference call with 1 second to play which led to a Hurricane goal. But this is getting strange. Devils are getting called for simply checking guys while only blatant calls are being assessed to Florida. Since when was racing to prevent an icing call and checking the guy BEFORE the whistle a penalty? And it's starting to effect the way Florida plays. During game 2 or 3 a Panther got caught up in the legs of a Devil while the NJ player was on the ground. Instead of simply falling to get a penalty, the Panther player dove into the Devil slamming his head against the ice. If these refs don't stop suffering from what I call "Koharski Syndrome" we are in trouble.
#4. Sean Bergenheim When we came into this series we were told that one line was our biggest fear: Weiss, Versteeg, and Fleischmann. But Sean Bergenheim has been a force in this series. But don't take MY word for it. Chico Resche has made a point to mention him every 3 minutes at least. So while I agree he needs to be contained, I'm going to spare you all. Let Chico talk about how amazing he is.
#3 The lack of shots to the net and forechecking We need to shoot the puck at the net. But instead we are going for these stupid deflection plays that do work... when they actually get deflected to the net! We gain the zone for a small point shot or a shanked shot from the slot if we are lucky. After that, Florida's defense has been stripping the puck away with ease. Start hitting without taking stupid penalties. You can do it! Hitting IS allowed!!! Stop playing too careful and get some pucks in their zone and sustain pressure. And that's the key word here, sustain! Aside from game 4, they haven't been able to sustain pressure for a full 60 minutes.
#2 Pussification of the coaching staff Listen, when you're losing a series 3-2, a loss away from elimination to a team that int he mind of most hockey fans shouldn't even exist, don't talk to the press like "ohhhh well we had some trouble todayyyy". No, you deny comment to the press, get your ass into that locker room and scream at them. It works! And don't even tell me Petey that you aren't the "angry" type. Larry Robinson, Mr. Smiles, walked into that locker room after going down 3-1 to Philly, and basically beat the crap out of that locker room. And guess what, we came back and won the series and then the freaking Cup! 1980, Herb Brooks yelled at college kids every day for a year, and we all know what happened there! So please someone other that Oates (because I can see he's actually trying to be a hard coach like he should be) man up, harden up, and whip this team (literally if you have to) into shape!
#1 Penalty Kill uhhhhh, what the hell happened here?! We broke the RECORD for best PK in NHL history! Now, the playoffs begin and we suck on the PK. What happened in the course of a week?! Not much I can say about this one except, fix it!
Facing elimination sucks, but we aren't done yet, so let's fight Tuesday to stay alive. This is Florida's series to lose now. Let's make those little kitties pay.
#5. The Officiating OK, the Devils have been known to be screwed over in the playoffs by refs before. '08 against NY that icing call during a PK that cost the Devils the series. '09 in Carolina we had that clear goalie interference call with 1 second to play which led to a Hurricane goal. But this is getting strange. Devils are getting called for simply checking guys while only blatant calls are being assessed to Florida. Since when was racing to prevent an icing call and checking the guy BEFORE the whistle a penalty? And it's starting to effect the way Florida plays. During game 2 or 3 a Panther got caught up in the legs of a Devil while the NJ player was on the ground. Instead of simply falling to get a penalty, the Panther player dove into the Devil slamming his head against the ice. If these refs don't stop suffering from what I call "Koharski Syndrome" we are in trouble.
#4. Sean Bergenheim When we came into this series we were told that one line was our biggest fear: Weiss, Versteeg, and Fleischmann. But Sean Bergenheim has been a force in this series. But don't take MY word for it. Chico Resche has made a point to mention him every 3 minutes at least. So while I agree he needs to be contained, I'm going to spare you all. Let Chico talk about how amazing he is.
#3 The lack of shots to the net and forechecking We need to shoot the puck at the net. But instead we are going for these stupid deflection plays that do work... when they actually get deflected to the net! We gain the zone for a small point shot or a shanked shot from the slot if we are lucky. After that, Florida's defense has been stripping the puck away with ease. Start hitting without taking stupid penalties. You can do it! Hitting IS allowed!!! Stop playing too careful and get some pucks in their zone and sustain pressure. And that's the key word here, sustain! Aside from game 4, they haven't been able to sustain pressure for a full 60 minutes.
#2 Pussification of the coaching staff Listen, when you're losing a series 3-2, a loss away from elimination to a team that int he mind of most hockey fans shouldn't even exist, don't talk to the press like "ohhhh well we had some trouble todayyyy". No, you deny comment to the press, get your ass into that locker room and scream at them. It works! And don't even tell me Petey that you aren't the "angry" type. Larry Robinson, Mr. Smiles, walked into that locker room after going down 3-1 to Philly, and basically beat the crap out of that locker room. And guess what, we came back and won the series and then the freaking Cup! 1980, Herb Brooks yelled at college kids every day for a year, and we all know what happened there! So please someone other that Oates (because I can see he's actually trying to be a hard coach like he should be) man up, harden up, and whip this team (literally if you have to) into shape!
#1 Penalty Kill uhhhhh, what the hell happened here?! We broke the RECORD for best PK in NHL history! Now, the playoffs begin and we suck on the PK. What happened in the course of a week?! Not much I can say about this one except, fix it!
Facing elimination sucks, but we aren't done yet, so let's fight Tuesday to stay alive. This is Florida's series to lose now. Let's make those little kitties pay.
Sunday, April 15, 2012
Wednesday, April 11, 2012
Eastern Conference Predictions!
Well it's finally here! Playoff time! A clean slate! A new season! Eric Boulton is equal on the point race with Ilya Kovalchuk! (in the words of the great James Hetfield "Sad but true") And there is NO reason why we should be stuffed in the afterburner of the playoff schedule as we are. Everyone will be pumped up tonight and even tomorrow. But we don't start until Friday. Why?
Well, here are my predictions on who will win what in the very first round of the Stanley Cup Playoffs in the Eastern Conference. Why the East only? Because who on here really cares who wins between the Sharks and the Blues?... Oh you do?... OK, well maybe I'll do the West later on today.
First, my Conn Smyth prediction? Cam Janssen! Now, that we got that out of the way let's move on!
#1 New YorkDirtrags err I mean Rangers VS. #8 Ottawa Senators:
They always say don't ever base a playoff prediction on the season match up, but in this case I gotta go with that. The Sens went 3-1 against NY. So I think the Sens will give the Rangers a dogfight. But this one will go to NY in 6. I don't see the Sens taking out the best team in the East. (as much as I'd love them to). My main reasoning behind this has got to be Henrik Lunqvist. He has stepped it up bigger than ever this year and has made the Rangers a legit Cup threat for the first time since 1997.
Game 1 in NY: Rangers win
Game 2 in NY: Rangers win
Game 3 in OTT: Senators win
Game 4 in OTT: Rangers win
Game 5 in NY: Senators win
Game 6 in OTT: Rangers win
Final Verdict: The Senators get assassinated
#2 Boston Bruins VS. #7 Washington Capitals:
This series works out the same way as the other one whereas the lower seed had a 3-1 record vs the higher seed. However where I saw the higher winning the first one, I see Washington actually taking this series. Boston hasn't played it's best hockey of late, going 12-10 in their last 22 games. Two of those losses came against the Caps. I see the Capitals winning this series in 5. Yes, only 5!
Game 1 in BOS: Capitals win
Game 2 in BOS: Capitals win
Game 3 in WSH: Capitals win
Game 4 in WSH: Bruins win
Game 5 in BOS: Capitals win
Final Verdict: Ovechkin goes hunting and comes home with a bear head on his wall
#3 Florida Panthers VS. #6 New Jersey Devils:
Ah yes, the series match up we wanted. Or so you'd think. Florida has been a slight thorn in our devil horns all year. We split the season series 2-2. The Cats won the 1st and 4th games while we won the middle two. However I like so many others I don't see NJ losing this series. But like I've said so many times before. Don't underestimate a team in the playoffs. If you do, it will bite you in the behind. I.E. 2009 against the Hurricanes. But truthfully, I see a 4 or 5 game win for NJ, and I'm going to go with 5. Theodore and Clemmer will split the series. Clemmensen, who has played well against the Devils, will get the Cats only win of the series in game 2 after a devastating game 1 for Jose Theodore.
Game 1 in FLA: Devils win
Game 2 in FLA: Panthers win
Game 3 in NJ: Devils win
Game 4 in NJ: Devils win
Game 5 in FLA: Devils win
Final Verdict: The Kitties get euthanized in 5
#4 Pittsburgh Penguins VS. #5 Philadelphia Flyers:
This is the interesting one. That brawl last week has sparked a civil war in the Keystone
state. The league is finally taking media notice of the Penguins whining with comments by multiple people including a $20k fining statement by John Tortorella. In terms of the series, I see this one falling into a back and forth battle. Claude Giroux will be the defining factor for Philly, as goaltending has been a problem in Philly for many years. I think Pittsburgh will take this in 7. Both teams will win their respective home games in this one I feel. I also say at least 3 or 4 of these games goes into OT.
Game 1 in PIT: Penguins win
Game 2 in PIT: Penguins win
Game 3 in PHI: Flyers win
Game 4 in PHI: Flyers win
Game 5 in PIT: Penguins win
Game 6 in PHI: Flyers win
Game 7 in PIT: Penguins win
Final Verdict: The Flyers get their wings clipped
Well, here are my predictions on who will win what in the very first round of the Stanley Cup Playoffs in the Eastern Conference. Why the East only? Because who on here really cares who wins between the Sharks and the Blues?... Oh you do?... OK, well maybe I'll do the West later on today.
First, my Conn Smyth prediction? Cam Janssen! Now, that we got that out of the way let's move on!
#1 New York
Game 1 in NY: Rangers win
Game 2 in NY: Rangers win
Game 3 in OTT: Senators win
Game 4 in OTT: Rangers win
Game 5 in NY: Senators win
Game 6 in OTT: Rangers win
Final Verdict: The Senators get assassinated
#2 Boston Bruins VS. #7 Washington Capitals:
Game 1 in BOS: Capitals win
Game 2 in BOS: Capitals win
Game 3 in WSH: Capitals win
Game 4 in WSH: Bruins win
Game 5 in BOS: Capitals win
Final Verdict: Ovechkin goes hunting and comes home with a bear head on his wall
#3 Florida Panthers VS. #6 New Jersey Devils:
Game 1 in FLA: Devils win
Game 2 in FLA: Panthers win
Game 3 in NJ: Devils win
Game 4 in NJ: Devils win
Game 5 in FLA: Devils win
Final Verdict: The Kitties get euthanized in 5
#4 Pittsburgh Penguins VS. #5 Philadelphia Flyers:
This is the interesting one. That brawl last week has sparked a civil war in the Keystone
Game 1 in PIT: Penguins win
Game 2 in PIT: Penguins win
Game 3 in PHI: Flyers win
Game 4 in PHI: Flyers win
Game 5 in PIT: Penguins win
Game 6 in PHI: Flyers win
Game 7 in PIT: Penguins win
Final Verdict: The Flyers get their wings clipped
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