Monday, January 25, 2010

Cormier In a Corner and Turn Down Turco!!


On My Mind

What is up with the Boston Bruins? 2-7-1 in their past 10 games and not looking like that trend is going to change anytime soon with a 5-1 loss against the Hurricanes (who have been playing better for the past week or so). For the past 2 or 3 years I believed this team was on the cusp of competing for the Stanley Cup only to have their chances crushed by injuries. In addition, I figured Boston would win the Northeast Division again this year and actually make some noise in the playoffs, especially after last years playoff dissapointment. It is true that they have missed Savard and Lucic for long stretches this season, which has hurt them, as they are very important components, however, I think the regression of youngsters Wideman (26), Wheeler (23), and Krejci (23) have hurt them more. I expected a continued upward trajectory statistically with these three. Wideman was counted on to be Chara's right hand man on defense and Wheeler and Krejci were supposed to ease the loss of Kessel. None of this has happened and I find it unfortunate and surprising. In addition, with Tim Thomas being nowhere near his Vezina winning stats of last year, they haven't had their starter stealing games like he has the previous couple of years. I have never been a big Tim Thomas fan, sure I enjoy watching his highlights, however, in todays game positioning is everything and that has never been one of his strong suits. I realize that Thomas just signed an extension but I believe that Rask might be ready to take over the starters job. I say trade Thomas now for a capable backup and a nice two-way player to help kill penalties and take some of the defensive responsibilities off of the younger players. I have faith that Boston will turn it around. They definitely have the resources, in the form of draft picks, to save this season and continue the teams growth for future years.

Lastly, it is good to see Bergeron playing better after all the injuries he has suffered. I didn't have him on my Team Canada olympic roster but it was still a good choice.

Stewart Brothers Going Separate Ways?

I still remember when the Florida Panthers selected Anthony Stewart in 2003 (25th overall). They had already chosen Nathan Horton (3rd overall), and I sat there watching thinking to myself that Florida was about ready to become a real threat in the league. Weiss at centre, Bouwmeester on defense, Luongo in net, and now their two power forwards playing the wing. Unfortunately for Florida and Anthony it didn't turn out that way. Anthony just hasn't seem to fit into the NHL. On the other hand, Anthony's brother Chris, who is 2 years his junior, has arrived in the NHL and making a major impact with the young and talented Colorado Avalanche. I find it crazy to think about the careers these two are having. In 2004, after Anthony had been drafted, he was able to land Chris a tryout with his OHL team, the Kingston Frontenacs. Chirs was able to make it out of training camp as part of the team, and in fact, was drafted in 2006 (18th overall) by the Colorado Avalanche. What I find strange is that both brothers play the same 'power forward' style of game as both are around 6'2 and 225 pounds, but unfortunately for Anthony that is where the similarities end. Anthony appears as though he may be doomed to be a career minor leaguer, while Chris seems ready to put his mark in the league as a major power forward.



Cormier In A Corner

I don't know about anyone else, but I am embarrassed that Cormier wore the 'C' for Canada at the World Junior Championships. The elbow he threw last week, which left an opponent on the ice convulsing was enough to make me sick. This hit made the Mike Richards-David Booth hit look clean. This guy hit two opponents during the WJC with dirty hits too. The one against Sweden was very similar to the one he recently threw. When I saw the Sweden hit I thought for sure he would miss games and to my amazement he received nothing. Liambis got suspended the remainder of this season, and I believe Cormier should receive double that. In fact, I believe that the AHL should up hold any suspension the QMJHL decides on. Players who make life threatening hits like this, and 2 were in the span of less then a month, have no place in hockey.

Turn Down Turco

I have been reading, seeing (in the forums of this site) and hearing the buzz regarding the trading of Turco. I have read some suggestions and possibilites that make my head spin, both for those thinking they might be a good idea, or if in fact Joe Nieuwendyk is even considering them. I agree that Dalls needs to move him and is in desperate need of some young goalie prospects. Some of these crazy suggestions include him heading to Atlanta for the likes of Ondrej Pavelec. Who in their right mind would do this deal?!?! Hedberg is doing fine as a backup for Atlanta. Atlanta has no need for Turco. In addition, they still have to see what they have with Lehtonen. Hopefully, he still has some trade value with the emergence of Pavelec. Teams that I would imagine who might be interested in Turco, for some veteran help down the stretch in case their goaltending faulters, are Nashville (Could trade Ellis or Rinne for Turco and a solid roster player), Minnesota (May as well get something worthwhile for Harding), St.Louis, Phoenix, Los Angeles and maybe Washington. All these trades would be best made by the deadline as the majority of teams named are not locks for the playoffs. Plus the Turcos salary and cap hit would be minimal. After this season though I think Turco is done as a starter in the NHL. I could only see Turco going to a team looking for a veteran backup for the playoffs, however, if you're looking at Turco as your starter for this year or for next year, give your head a shake. Turco was once a very solid keeper, however, those days are gone. If he continues his career after his contract expires it should be and probably will be as a backup.

Thanks for reading and whatever became of Robert Reichel?

Monday, January 18, 2010

On My Mind


On My Mind

I know there is alot of time left in the season and things could definitely change come the trade deadline, however, since last weeks column I have been thinking of who I would pick to win the cup. Most years I have not had a problem picking (whether correct or not), however, I can't seem to pinpoint an odds on favourite as every team I look at has a major hole that I can't look past. For the record at the start of the year I really thought the acquisition of Pronger and signing of Emery would give the Flyers a solid chance at winning the Cup this year. Unfortunately, they haven't received the proper goaltending with the inconsistent play of Emery and his recent injury woes. My reason for the pick was their depth up front and on the back end. If they can get their goaltending issues addressed (Halak anyone?) I like my pre-season prediction.

Here's a look at the other contenders and why I have problems picking them to win the hardest trophy to win in all sports!!

The following teams are in no specific order.

From the West:

San Jose
Good depth up front (especially with Marleau kick starting his game), decent goaltending, however, I don't see the depth on defense for a stretch run and why should anyone have the faith in them with their past playoffs woes?

Chicago
Again a team with great depth up front, however, unlike San Jose, Chicago does have good defensive depth, its their goaltending I have concerns about and with Huets contract I find it hard to believe they'll be able to upgrade it. Hopefully Huet turns it on come playoff time or Niemi is able to grab the reins.

Calgary
Kipper is playing amazing, looking like he is playoff ready now. The acquisition of Bouwmeester in the off season I think gives Calgary possibly the top defense in the league. Crazy to think that for years it was the secondary scoring that gave Flames fans head aches, however, now that Bourque is providing it, Iginla isn't being the primary offensive weapon, which he has in recent years.

Hopefully fans from other top teams in the West, such as Phoenix, Colorado and Nashville are not upset because of their omission, however, I don't see any chance of these teams seriously competing for the Stanley Cup this season.


From The East:

Washington
Unlike some teams I would omit for having more than one concern, I have included Washington as a contender. As of right now I don't believe they have the goaltending or defense to win it all. They have enough fire power up front to push other teams, however, unless they improve their goaltending and defense (by adding another solid rearguard) they'll be lucky to make it past the 2nd round for a second straight year.


New Jersey
Hard for some to imagine, but I believe that as of right now New Jersey would have the best chance of representing the Eastern Conference in the Finals. They have great goaltending as well as great depth on forward. There only weakness really is on defense. I would like to see them add a top defenseman if they truly want to compete, however, I give them the best chance due to their style of play. They play such a group defensive game that not having an all-star defenseman doesn't hinder them as much as other teams.

Boston
Boston probably has the most well-rounded team in the entire league. They have a Norris winner anchoring the blue line in Zdeno Chara as well as great depth up front, in addition to Vezina trophy winner Tim Thomas. Hopefully their early season inconsistencies are behind them. It's hard to imagine, although Thomas is a the reigning Vezina winner he is the weakest part of the team.

Pittsburgh
Last but not least the defending champions. I think it is hard to ever argue that a team carrying both Crosby and Malkin would not have a good shot at taking home the title. I just can't seem to understand how their defense is going to take them all the way. Losing a good penalty killer in Hal Gill and a great shutdown defenseman in Scuderi has to hurt. In addition, although there is no debating Fleury's great playoff run last year, I am not totally sold. I would like to see it again. Upfront I really like the grit they have to compliment Crosby and Ovechkin, as well as Jordan Staal.


Olympics

Id like to quickly point out something that is a bit of a concern. Everyone is all pumped for the olympics (including myself), however, I haven't heard many comments regarding how people's favourite teams are going to be effected going into the playoffs with an already condensed schedule. Many teams are going to enjoy the healing time they receive. A nice break with time for their players to recover from injuries or just day to day soreness if the don't have many, if any, players participating in the olympics, but what about teams whose key players are going over? As a fan of a team, is anyone concerned with their favourite team being worn out for the stretch run?

Mike Danton

I have to say something about Dantons acceptance and approval into St.Marys University. Good Luck. I don't know if Mike is going to end up getting another chance at the NHL level, however, if his abilities dictate he should then I fully support him getting another opportunity. This young man made a mistake, has an unfortunate past that is still not fully explored and has served his debt to society for that mistake. 5 years in prison. This wasn't one of those laid back “walk in the park” minimum security prisons. This is where the real bad guys go. Considering I have seen criminals get less time for doing much more and worse horrific acts, I belive Mr.Danton has paid more than enough for his actions.

And one last thing...whatever happened to Felix Potvin?

Monday, January 11, 2010

Press Box Hockey Talk


Hey, Not sure how many people actually check my blog out, however, in addition to the ones I will be posting on here I will be having all hockey related columns put on hockeyleaks.com as well.

So here is my first article for Hockey Leaks - Enjoy!!

Press Box Hockey Talk

Hello to all those die hard hockey fans out there!! Hopefully everyone had a safe and happy holiday. First off I'd like to thank Mr.Johnson and Hockey Leaks for the chance to provide my opinion and insight. Secondly, I'd like to thank all those fans who will take the time to read my columns. I watch the same games you do. I don't have any insider info, all the opinions you'll read are from me. I'll be talking about events in hockey, other opinions out there, as well as comments I read from other hockey fans from newspapers, websites and blogs.

For my first column I'll be touching on a few different topics, as coming out of the holiday season not much has happened, although, I'm sure (atleast hoping) that will change soon.

Mid Year Awards

Other than point awards, such as the Art Ross and Rocket Richard trophies, there are 4 main trophies that are discussed on a regular basis as the season progresses. Those of course being the Hart, Vezina, Norris and Calder. Since we've just passed the midway mark of the season I'd like to give you my picks for the above mentioned.

Starting with the Calder. I know alot of people will say that they thought Tavares would win it with ease. I can honestly say that, although I think Tavares will be a very good pro, he is no Sidney Crosby, and isn't even on the same level, he was no lock for the calder. Up until about a month ago, my top 3 would have been Myers, Tavares and Duchene, but since then Howard has basically kept the Detroit Red Wings in the playoff race, which makes me have to include him in the top 3. In fact, my top 3 would now be Myers, Howard and Duchene. Tavares wouldn't even be a candidate for voting. If the season were to end today, my pick would be Myers. Good defense is hard to come by. Even harder to be a good defenseman at the age of 19. Plus, I don't know too many people who predicted the Sabres to be as high as they are now in the standings. I had them fighting for a playoff spot.

Secondly, the Norris, which I feel will be the tightest race. My three candidates will only include 1 returning candidate from last year. Doughty, Green, and Keith would be my top 3 candidates at the half way point this year. Although it's tough, I think the honour belongs to Keith. He is as well rounded a defenseman as you can ask for right now. I'm impressed with the improvement in Green's defensive game, and his offensive stats can't be ignored but I still don't think he is deserving. As for Doughty, he is improving at a ridiculous pace, and he could win this award as soon as next year. I used to think Shea Weber would be a constant Norris winner for years to come, however, that was before Doughty came along. Doughty is going to have a shelf full of these trophies before his career is over, the collection just won't start this year.

Lastly (because my Vezina and Hart winner are the same), this player has been solid for the past couple of years, however, this year is literally carrying his team on his back. Before stating the winner my nominees would be: For the Vezina, Brodeur, Miller, and Kiprusoff and for the Hart Brodeur, Miller, and Henrik Sedin. As you can see the odd men out for each of these awards are Kiprusoff and Sedin. Both players are keeping their teams in the playoff race, especially in the very tight Western Conference. Henrik, with both Luongo lost for a period as well as his brother, demonstrated that he can adapt his game and be the go to guy. With 2 of the 3 main pieces missing, Henrik did not lose a beat and is currently in the league lead for points. As for Kiprusoff, what can you say? I read everywhere, and to be honest I did buy into it to an extent, that Kipper's stats would continue to go south, especially unless a legitimate backup was found to take some of the workload; however, he is still playing as much as ever, his wins, goals against average and save percentage are all top 5 league wide.
It hurts to say, especially since he broke the shutout record, that Brodeur is not my choice to win his 5th Vezina and his 1st Hart trophy (shocking that he has never won one). Brodeur is having an incredible year, even though analysts everywhere said that this would finally be the year that New Jersey didn't make the playoffs (haven't they been saying this for the past 5 years?). If this was any other year, I can honestly say I don't think there would be any debate and Brodeur would have won both of these awards hands down with his stellar play, however, there is one team doing nearly as great and I don't remember reading anyone saying Buffalo would be as high or playing as good as they are this year. For years, the cash strapped Sabres would not open their wallet to keep marquee players, such as Briere and Drury, allowing them to walk for more money then they were willing to pay; however, the one time they opened their wallet to keep from losing an All-Star player was definitely a worthwhile investment as Miller has carried this team. Ryan Miller is my mid-season choice for both the Hart and Norris trophies.

A Couple Of Other Things

I'm reading all these rumours about Kovalchuk being traded. My argument here isn't that he won't be traded, although I hope for Atlantas sake they can find some way to keep him, but to point out how foolish I find some of the rumours and if by chance they are true, to wonder what those teams are thinking. First off, Boston. How are they going to fit him under the cap? Grab him as a rental player? No sense to me. When did players entering the prime of their career become rental players? I can't think of one. Those breaking this rumour are saying Boston has lots of prospects and draft picks, which they can trade, but if Kessel commanded two 1st rounders, a 2nd and a 3rd round draft pick, then what do they think Kovalchuk will command. Atlanta isn't going to ask for less even if it might just be a rental. Kovalchuks don't grow on trees. Quickly, speaking of Kessel, I really wish Toronto would have tried (harder if they actually did) on getting Kovalchuk instead. One other rumour, that doesn't make sense to me is Kovalchuk to Washington. It's not the fact they already have Semin because I'm aware he could be in a package to get him. It's the fact that Washingtons biggest concern should be hoping Varlamov is healthy for the playoffs and whether he can carry them as far as he did last year and secondly, their defense. If the Phaneuf rumours are true, Washington should definitely focus some attention there or even on a better defensive defenseman.

Talk of Carolina having a firesale. I would trade everyone on that team except for Staal and Ward. Two great building blocks. They look to be a lock to have that final spot in the league, giving themselves a great chance at getting a third franchise cornerstone in Hall or Seguin. I know if I were a Hurricanes fan I would be getting tired of watching a great team one year and a team that can't even make the playoffs the next. Rutherford, for future years, has to learn that while your team is winning you still have to be adding youth to the mix. He let the Hurricanes defense stay the same for too long letting the key components grow old and lose a step with no youthful replacements coming up through the ranks.

Thanks again for reading. And whatever became of Roman Turek?


Wednesday, January 6, 2010

World Junior Championship


It's been awhile, but it's the holiday season and there hasn't been much going on.

Have to say that the past few years have provided some of the best hockey I have ever seen at the World Junior Hockey Championships, including yesterdays Gold Medal loss to the Americans. I can't say for sure, but I think it would be a pretty safe bet to say that no player has tied the Gold Medal game two years in a row with their team behind. Jordan Eberle, can you say clutch? I'm not sure if I'm ready to say that Eberle will be a monster at the NHL level, but I'm definitely excited to see what he can do. After watching this WJC I have no idea why Pietrangelo can't make the transition to the NHL. He was dominant throughout the tourney and made things look very easy, he is still young though, and it is said that it takes defensemen the longest to develop to the pro game.

Now on to the game. Have to say congrats to Team USA, they played great and players, such as, Schroeder, Kristo, Fowler and Carlson all look like great up and comers. Not to take anything away from the win, however, there are always things the losing team could have done better and I would like to address them. Watching the last game there were definite calls that were missed, however, you have to be able to rise above them and for the most part Canada did. They fought back hard and were able to tie the game. Throughout the tourney I said time and time again that Canada, specifically their forward group, were trying to be way to fancy. You can pull that stuff against teams like Latvia and Switzerland to an extent, however, at the end of the day, and it showed when Canada was successful, you have to get the puck to the net and crash and get those dirty "pay the price" type of goals. On too many occasions Canada got away from this. Finally, Canada's biggest weakness, and don't get me wrong I truly think that missing Hamonic was unfortunate, was their goaltending. Canada just didn't have a Pogge, Pickard, Price or Mason to rely upon to make the big stop. Goaltending wasn't terrible but it was definitely was the weakest part of the team, and I think the 5th USA goal demonstrated that. You can't fumble shot from inside the blue line and barely move when deked, especially in a Championship game.

In any case, it was great hockey, and the streak of winning gold wasn't going to last forever. In addition to Eberle, as a Leaf fan I was pretty impressed with Kadri's play. Obviously the "cut throat" gesture was a little bit overboard but I thought his edgy style was good and I've always like players who have that feisty edge a little bit more. Ellis looks like he might be more than just an offensive defenseman as he was throwing his smaller frame around, which was good to see. Nashville might have got a real steal with him at 11th overall.

Whatever became of World Junior sensation Jimmy Waite?