The Calgary flames continued on with their unbeaten streak taking the total to four Saturday night, with a 4-4 tie against the Nashville Predators. A see-saw game that saw the teams battle back and forth all night, it was broken open when Jerome Iginla hit the scoreboard 31 seconds into the third to the game up. Miikka Kiprusoff then shutting the door on a pesky Nashville team, that is fighting for it’s playoff life. Giving the Flames a one point cushion between them and Nashville now tied for seventh spot with St. Louis in the West.
Predator goaltender Tomas Vokoun took the blame for the lost extra point, claiming he let his team down Saturday night. The Predators at one time held a 3-1 lead, only to have things fall apart in a very short 2 minutes and fifty three seconds, spanning the late second period and early third. For the Flames the effort while sloppy at times, gave prove that they can come back from a deficit and salvage a bad situation.
As the season winds down, the Flames may find themselves to be a dark horse candidate for success in the post season. Any good playoff team needs goaltending, the Flames are finding that Kiprusoff gives them an added edge; it’s up to them to take advantage of it when the opportunity provides itself
Sunday, March 14, 2004
Wandering Goalies and missed opportunities
Finally we could concentrate on some hockey, the Bertuzzi incident almost reaching it’s finishing point as far as a media fascination. Saturday night’s Hockey Night in Canada double bill, provided some exciting and fast paced action, almost playoff like in it’s intensity.
Starting with the Toronto Montreal game we enjoyed two ancient rivals, take to the ice at the Bell Centre and put on a great display for the fans on hand and the television audience. Ed Belfour brought re-assurance to his Maple Leaf fans by starting in the net for Toronto tonight, but right off the bat gave them cause to worry. Mike Ribeiro electrifying the crowd by dashing across the front of the net stretching both defensemen and Belfour out flat before firing the puck into the net to open the scoring.
The two teams battled back and forth in the fast and physical game, Montreal taking the lead for good at 9:33 of the third, when Richard Zednik scored for the Habs. While the atmosphere was loud and enthusiastic in the arena, Leaf coach Pat Quinn was not enthused about his team’s performance tonight. Worrying about the inability of the first unit to get any chances or make an impression. Belfour played well for the most part, Montreal goaltender Jose Theodore just a little bit better at the other end. The 4-3 win gives the Habs a bit more breathing space in the East, the loss coupled with a Senator win gives leaves the Leafs looking up the standings at Ottawa in fourth place.
The Senators putting together an effective road game in Vancouver to gain a game in hand on the Leafs and move closer to the Bruins for first overall in the North East conference. Another fast paced game, this one featured some unusual goals in the Sens 2-1 victory at GM place. Ottawa outplayed the Canucks badly in the first period, controlling the play and keeping the Canucks off the shots list until the fifteen minute mark. An early goal by Zdeno Chara was waved off after the referees ruled incidental contact in the Canuck crease. Martin Rucinsky missed a golden opportunity as well as his shot in the first went wide of the empty side of the Sens net. The first Senators goal by Peter Bondra was scored when Canuck goaltender Johan Hedberg went wandering behind the net to play the puck, mishandled it ended up on Bondra’s stick and then in. The lead didn’t last long as farmhand Pat Kavanagh scored a goal for Vancouver, one minute and fourty eight seconds later, it was Kavanagh’s second goal in the NHL since being called up.
The Canucks had a golden opportunity to take the lead in the third when Ottawa was assessed a four minute penalty, but the Canucks could not score and in fact were for the most part kept out of the Ottawa end for the duration of the penalty. Daniel Alfredsson then took the play into the Vancouver end with nine minutes to go and scored an unusual goal as the puck bounced off of two Canuck defenders before making it’s way behind Hedberg.
The Sens settled things down and survived a few extra Canuck rushes to secure the 2-1 victory, they round out their road trip west with a game Sunday night in Edmonton. The Canucks don’t face another Eastern team for the rest of the season, they’ll have to improve quite a bit if they hope to meet one in the post season.
Starting with the Toronto Montreal game we enjoyed two ancient rivals, take to the ice at the Bell Centre and put on a great display for the fans on hand and the television audience. Ed Belfour brought re-assurance to his Maple Leaf fans by starting in the net for Toronto tonight, but right off the bat gave them cause to worry. Mike Ribeiro electrifying the crowd by dashing across the front of the net stretching both defensemen and Belfour out flat before firing the puck into the net to open the scoring.
The two teams battled back and forth in the fast and physical game, Montreal taking the lead for good at 9:33 of the third, when Richard Zednik scored for the Habs. While the atmosphere was loud and enthusiastic in the arena, Leaf coach Pat Quinn was not enthused about his team’s performance tonight. Worrying about the inability of the first unit to get any chances or make an impression. Belfour played well for the most part, Montreal goaltender Jose Theodore just a little bit better at the other end. The 4-3 win gives the Habs a bit more breathing space in the East, the loss coupled with a Senator win gives leaves the Leafs looking up the standings at Ottawa in fourth place.
The Senators putting together an effective road game in Vancouver to gain a game in hand on the Leafs and move closer to the Bruins for first overall in the North East conference. Another fast paced game, this one featured some unusual goals in the Sens 2-1 victory at GM place. Ottawa outplayed the Canucks badly in the first period, controlling the play and keeping the Canucks off the shots list until the fifteen minute mark. An early goal by Zdeno Chara was waved off after the referees ruled incidental contact in the Canuck crease. Martin Rucinsky missed a golden opportunity as well as his shot in the first went wide of the empty side of the Sens net. The first Senators goal by Peter Bondra was scored when Canuck goaltender Johan Hedberg went wandering behind the net to play the puck, mishandled it ended up on Bondra’s stick and then in. The lead didn’t last long as farmhand Pat Kavanagh scored a goal for Vancouver, one minute and fourty eight seconds later, it was Kavanagh’s second goal in the NHL since being called up.
The Canucks had a golden opportunity to take the lead in the third when Ottawa was assessed a four minute penalty, but the Canucks could not score and in fact were for the most part kept out of the Ottawa end for the duration of the penalty. Daniel Alfredsson then took the play into the Vancouver end with nine minutes to go and scored an unusual goal as the puck bounced off of two Canuck defenders before making it’s way behind Hedberg.
The Sens settled things down and survived a few extra Canuck rushes to secure the 2-1 victory, they round out their road trip west with a game Sunday night in Edmonton. The Canucks don’t face another Eastern team for the rest of the season, they’ll have to improve quite a bit if they hope to meet one in the post season.
Saturday, March 13, 2004
POPE DONALD’S ENCYCLICAL
The Nation waited as though we were in St. Peter’s square, the window then opened and Pope Donald appeared. What would he say about the pressing matter of our time, would we find comfort in his words, a call to action or one of forgiveness. The multitudes turned up their Television’s and awaited the word.
No doubt the flunky at the CBC in charge of the “button” on the Donald S. Cheery watch was feeling the pressure, when should he push the button, what would it take tonight to send silence to the media celebrity, a move that would send shockwaves through the CBC.
Don Cherry waded into the Bertuzzi discussion tonight in a rambling dissertation on violence in hockey, Todd Bertuzzi, the NHL and the media circus that surrounded this event. He did express the belief that Bertuzzi had done wrong, and knew he would be suspended for as long as he has been. But partly, Cherry assessed blame on the situation to Avalanche coach Tony Granato, claiming that Granato should have had enforcer Peter Worrell on the ice at the same time as Steve Moore, so as to run interference and intercept any aggressive actions one assumes. Cherry also suggested that lawsuits will fly over the incident and the hefty 250,000 dollar fined levied on the Canucks over it.
He went on to criticize the media reaction to the entire situation, especially those in the media that doubt the sincerity of Bertuzzi’s apology broadcast on Wednesday night. Cherry said there was no way they were “crocodile tears” and that he knows that Bertuzzi would change places with “that kid” tonight if he could.
Cherry described himself as the “leader” of the great unwashed, (as he described how he believes the elites portray his audience). Taking from a page of the Brian Burke book of situation handling, Cherry attracted attention on the incident towards him and away from Bertuzzi.
He probably tested the patience of the button holder at the CBC, when he delved into the reaction outside of hockey. Claiming some guy named Emile had a vendetta against him, adding that they have the language people after me, now the safety people. The Emile that Cherry referred to, was Emile Therien, president of the Canadian Safety Council. Once Cherry started his commentary about him, you could just sense the guy or gal on the button getting fidgety. Therien has in the past complained to the CBC about Cherry, claiming that Cherry is a willing participant in condoning violence and fighting in hockey. Therien also is the father of an NHL player Chris Therien, who plays for the Philadelphia Flyers, a squad not known for it’s peaceful approach to the game.
Pope Donald ended his address tonight with a plea to the children:
"Look, kids, you should never, ever, do anything like this," said the Hockey Night in Canada commentator. "Todd was wrong - he knows he was wrong.
"If you have a beef with somebody, and you want to do something, it's face to face. Face to face - you settle it that way. You don't sucker-punch, ever, from behind. Do it face to face. That's the Canadian way.”
I’m not sure how the Canadian minor hockey association is going to feel having Don suggesting that any “beefs” be settled face to face on the ice. It might be at loggerheads with their Fair play ideals of the last few years. But it was probably as mellow as Cherry would ever get.. Not quite turn the other cheek, but certainly not vengeance is mine!
And with that the smoke billowed from the chimney, the window closed. The address was over, fodder for more discussion for the next week. The faithful flock to return next Saturday, for more of the word.
In an interesting bit of counter programming, the crew at Hockey Night in Canada changed the format of their Satellite Hot Stove feature in the second period. Rather than a wide ranging discussion with three guests on the issues of the day, the entire feature was turned over to one guest. Toronto Maple Leaf president Ken Dryden. Dryden has chaired a committee on violence in hockey and written a number of books on hockey and education, his purpose tonight to provide the counter point to the Cherry argument.
He provided a calm, well thought out essay on the state of the game today, claiming that the game is plagued with violence and intimidation. While not as emotional as Cherry was, he provided some powerful imagery in his message, Comparing the attack by Bertuzzi as if it were from a National Geographic television special, with a larger more powerful animal, stalking a smaller one and then attacking. Hard hitting words and an image completely opposite of the theories offered up by Mr. Cherry.
One assumes the CBC censor, was allowed to take a coffee break during Dryden’s message, no chance of any slander charges in that five minute block. It was some fascinating coverage on the issue, hopefully giving all those truly interested in the game some assistance, as they try to decide just what it is they want this game to be.
No doubt the flunky at the CBC in charge of the “button” on the Donald S. Cheery watch was feeling the pressure, when should he push the button, what would it take tonight to send silence to the media celebrity, a move that would send shockwaves through the CBC.
Don Cherry waded into the Bertuzzi discussion tonight in a rambling dissertation on violence in hockey, Todd Bertuzzi, the NHL and the media circus that surrounded this event. He did express the belief that Bertuzzi had done wrong, and knew he would be suspended for as long as he has been. But partly, Cherry assessed blame on the situation to Avalanche coach Tony Granato, claiming that Granato should have had enforcer Peter Worrell on the ice at the same time as Steve Moore, so as to run interference and intercept any aggressive actions one assumes. Cherry also suggested that lawsuits will fly over the incident and the hefty 250,000 dollar fined levied on the Canucks over it.
He went on to criticize the media reaction to the entire situation, especially those in the media that doubt the sincerity of Bertuzzi’s apology broadcast on Wednesday night. Cherry said there was no way they were “crocodile tears” and that he knows that Bertuzzi would change places with “that kid” tonight if he could.
Cherry described himself as the “leader” of the great unwashed, (as he described how he believes the elites portray his audience). Taking from a page of the Brian Burke book of situation handling, Cherry attracted attention on the incident towards him and away from Bertuzzi.
He probably tested the patience of the button holder at the CBC, when he delved into the reaction outside of hockey. Claiming some guy named Emile had a vendetta against him, adding that they have the language people after me, now the safety people. The Emile that Cherry referred to, was Emile Therien, president of the Canadian Safety Council. Once Cherry started his commentary about him, you could just sense the guy or gal on the button getting fidgety. Therien has in the past complained to the CBC about Cherry, claiming that Cherry is a willing participant in condoning violence and fighting in hockey. Therien also is the father of an NHL player Chris Therien, who plays for the Philadelphia Flyers, a squad not known for it’s peaceful approach to the game.
Pope Donald ended his address tonight with a plea to the children:
"Look, kids, you should never, ever, do anything like this," said the Hockey Night in Canada commentator. "Todd was wrong - he knows he was wrong.
"If you have a beef with somebody, and you want to do something, it's face to face. Face to face - you settle it that way. You don't sucker-punch, ever, from behind. Do it face to face. That's the Canadian way.”
I’m not sure how the Canadian minor hockey association is going to feel having Don suggesting that any “beefs” be settled face to face on the ice. It might be at loggerheads with their Fair play ideals of the last few years. But it was probably as mellow as Cherry would ever get.. Not quite turn the other cheek, but certainly not vengeance is mine!
And with that the smoke billowed from the chimney, the window closed. The address was over, fodder for more discussion for the next week. The faithful flock to return next Saturday, for more of the word.
In an interesting bit of counter programming, the crew at Hockey Night in Canada changed the format of their Satellite Hot Stove feature in the second period. Rather than a wide ranging discussion with three guests on the issues of the day, the entire feature was turned over to one guest. Toronto Maple Leaf president Ken Dryden. Dryden has chaired a committee on violence in hockey and written a number of books on hockey and education, his purpose tonight to provide the counter point to the Cherry argument.
He provided a calm, well thought out essay on the state of the game today, claiming that the game is plagued with violence and intimidation. While not as emotional as Cherry was, he provided some powerful imagery in his message, Comparing the attack by Bertuzzi as if it were from a National Geographic television special, with a larger more powerful animal, stalking a smaller one and then attacking. Hard hitting words and an image completely opposite of the theories offered up by Mr. Cherry.
One assumes the CBC censor, was allowed to take a coffee break during Dryden’s message, no chance of any slander charges in that five minute block. It was some fascinating coverage on the issue, hopefully giving all those truly interested in the game some assistance, as they try to decide just what it is they want this game to be.
More Goaltending woes for the Maple Leafs!
Breathe deeply Leaf fans, No Eddie Belfour did not put his back out at practice (or at the team meal either). But the back up ranks, are getting thinner and thinner. St. John’s goaltender, Mikael Tellqvist injured his knee in Friday’s AHL game against the Toronto Roadrunners. Eliciting a collective gasp from the 7,000 fans in attendance at Toronto’s Ricoh Centre, Tellqvist lay on the ice for a few minutes before finishing the first period, he however sat on the bench for the rest of the game. Tellqvist who was spelling off Trevor Kidd during Ed Belfour’s recovery period, is keeping sharp on the farm in case he’s needed during the final stretch and playoffs...
With Kidd struggling in the Leaf’s net and Belfour just a bad back day from bed rest, goaltending is the one aspect of the Leaf’s game that has Maple Leaf fan’s just a little bit nervous.
For whatever reason, GM John Ferguson chose not to upgrade his back up position by the trade deadline. Going instead with Trevor Kidd on the standby should Belfour go down again. With the news of Tellqvist’s slight injury making the rounds of Toronto, that decision may be like rolling the dice and hoping for lady luck to smile. For the moment GM John Ferguson won’t be showing his pearly whites.
With Kidd struggling in the Leaf’s net and Belfour just a bad back day from bed rest, goaltending is the one aspect of the Leaf’s game that has Maple Leaf fan’s just a little bit nervous.
For whatever reason, GM John Ferguson chose not to upgrade his back up position by the trade deadline. Going instead with Trevor Kidd on the standby should Belfour go down again. With the news of Tellqvist’s slight injury making the rounds of Toronto, that decision may be like rolling the dice and hoping for lady luck to smile. For the moment GM John Ferguson won’t be showing his pearly whites.
Oilers and Canucks put in a little overtime (again)
For the Edmonton Oilers it was the same old, same old. Another game, another extra five minutes of work to put in. Unfortunately for the Oil, tonight’s game once again only gave them one point to add to the playoff race. Tonight marked the seventh game the Oilers have taken into Overtime, and like the previous matches the Oilers watched as the opposition snared the extra point. Vancouver winning the game 4-3 in extra time. The record for the Oilers since the streak started on February 21st is, 2-0-2-3. Leaving them five points out of the final playoff spot currently being held down by the Nashville Predators and LA Kings...
Newly acquired Canucks Geoff Sanderson and Martin Rucinsky did their part scoring points in Friday night’s game in Edmonton. Sanderson scoring the winning goal with less than thirty five seconds to go, in the OT frame. A period, which the Canucks controlled from the face off, the vast majority of the play taking place in the Oiler end of the ice.
Vancouver could use the points as they continue to chase the Avalanche atop the Northwest Division. It also puts a bit of breathing room between them and the Stars as the Canucks remain three points ahead of Dallas and six points up on the Calgary Flames.
The Canucks return home to face the Ottawa Senators Saturday night at GM Place. The Oilers rest up at home, waiting on the Ottawa Senators to pull into town on Monday night...
For the Oilers it’s pretty straightforward regulation or overtime wins is what they need, the two points becoming a required total. Time is fast running out, those squandered extra points may come back to haunt the Oil, when the leave the ice at GM Place on the 4th of April.
Newly acquired Canucks Geoff Sanderson and Martin Rucinsky did their part scoring points in Friday night’s game in Edmonton. Sanderson scoring the winning goal with less than thirty five seconds to go, in the OT frame. A period, which the Canucks controlled from the face off, the vast majority of the play taking place in the Oiler end of the ice.
Vancouver could use the points as they continue to chase the Avalanche atop the Northwest Division. It also puts a bit of breathing room between them and the Stars as the Canucks remain three points ahead of Dallas and six points up on the Calgary Flames.
The Canucks return home to face the Ottawa Senators Saturday night at GM Place. The Oilers rest up at home, waiting on the Ottawa Senators to pull into town on Monday night...
For the Oilers it’s pretty straightforward regulation or overtime wins is what they need, the two points becoming a required total. Time is fast running out, those squandered extra points may come back to haunt the Oil, when the leave the ice at GM Place on the 4th of April.
Hasek says, Thanks but no Thanks!
Well here’s a little cost certainty for Gary Bettman and his number crunchers. The Detroit Red Wings are three millions dollars richer these days, as Domenik Hasek has decided not to cash his paycheque due to his injury. In a move sure to annoy his player’s association brethren, Domenik has refused to accept the Red Wing pay envelope since January 9th. That was the day Domenik announced that he was done for the year due to his groin injury.
Red Wing GM Ken Holland “call’s it an unbelievable gesture”, on the part of Hasek. (I’m sure that Bob Goodenow had a much different expression to describe Hasek’s largesse!)
Hasek is reportedly disappointed that things did not work out, as he had hoped they would when he came out of retirement. His return spurred a crisis in the Red Wing organization, which at one time had tried to peddle Curtis Joseph via the trade routes, but to little success. As it turned out it was a lucky thing they couldn’t find a taker. As Cujo is now the horse they plan on riding to the Stanley Cup Derby. Ken Holland finding that he had horseshoes in the appropriate place in that instance.
Now as we close in on St. Patrick’s Day, it would seem that he has stumbled across a patch of four leaf clover as well, how else to explain away Hasek’s generous contribution to the Red Wing bottom line.
Folks in Detroit need to find out when Holland goes to the lottery booth, there’s a guy you want to be standing beside.
Red Wing GM Ken Holland “call’s it an unbelievable gesture”, on the part of Hasek. (I’m sure that Bob Goodenow had a much different expression to describe Hasek’s largesse!)
Hasek is reportedly disappointed that things did not work out, as he had hoped they would when he came out of retirement. His return spurred a crisis in the Red Wing organization, which at one time had tried to peddle Curtis Joseph via the trade routes, but to little success. As it turned out it was a lucky thing they couldn’t find a taker. As Cujo is now the horse they plan on riding to the Stanley Cup Derby. Ken Holland finding that he had horseshoes in the appropriate place in that instance.
Now as we close in on St. Patrick’s Day, it would seem that he has stumbled across a patch of four leaf clover as well, how else to explain away Hasek’s generous contribution to the Red Wing bottom line.
Folks in Detroit need to find out when Holland goes to the lottery booth, there’s a guy you want to be standing beside.
Thursday, March 11, 2004
Burke shoulders the blame
Brian Burke, today began the process of refocusing his hockey team, post Bertuzzi, on the long road ahead. In an emotional press conference in Vancouver, following the suspension announcement, Burke defended his star forward, striving to insulate him from the ongoing storm. Burke declaring he would be proud to have Bertuzzi on his team anytime. Burke who has had a stormy relationship with the Vancouver media over the years, turned up the heat on his rapport with them. Burke aimed his verbal darts at the assembled media, accusing many of them of lying in wait for years, to try and bring down the guy they call Bert.
With the National media, indeed the continental media focusing on the events of Monday night with a glaring spotlight, the issue has become the main story in all media. But nowhere like Vancouver, has the issue been so all pervasive. The Newspapers have tackled the story with the same gusto one would expect of a gang war in the downtown core, hundreds of thousands of logs must have been sacrficed to keep the appetite of the reader fed over the last three days. The television stations have battled each other for space around GM Place, Vancouver General Hospital and in some instances at the foot of Bertuzzi's own driveway, all trying to get the scoop of the day, aiming to feed the media beast. And then there's the radio scene, one of the most hotly competitive talk radio wars takes place in Vancouver, no less than six local radio stations offer some form of talk radio, including two sports radio stations and the market leader in all talk radio. All seemed to dedicate their broadcast days to the Bertuzzi incident.
There was a thin wedge of truth in the statements by Burke today, many of the commentators seemed to take turns to tee off at Bertuzzi's conduct on the ice and his personality off of it. Now believe me his actions Monday night were terribly wrong, he's been punished by his league for his transgressions, now destined to serve his sentence from Colin Campbell. But some of the character assassination taking place the last few days seems a bit much. The concept of a sense of balance to the reporting, long gone with the media display. While I don't subscribe to Burke's conspiracy theory of a media vendetta against Bertuzzi, many of those in print, on television and radio could take a sober look at their comments and actions, of the last number of days.
The talk radio stations and the open line shows in particular, gave an open mike to anyone with a grudge or an ill informed opinion. The beauty and the danger of the democracy of an open line, is that the wise, reasoned contributors are provided a forum, side by side with the complete nutbars. In Vancouver, it would seem that it's a 50/50 split. Well thought out and heartfelt comments, given equal weight to the complete inane ravings of the silly and the bellicose.
To get just a small sample of the atmosphere around the Canucks today, check out the CKNW Audio Vault. While listening to the entire morning of Thursday's broadcast day would give one a wonderful overview, we realize that time is precious. So, for a thumbnail sketch of the media blitz listen to the 6 to 8 am block, just after the Bertuzzi announcement and then to the 10:00 portion of the Bill Good program when the Burke news conference was carried live. That should give you a sense of the complete domination of the media this entire event has taken on. For further research, go back over the last four nights of Dan Russell's sportstalk program 9-midnight (even longer Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday nights) the passion, anger and disappointment of the callers, guests and host as well, all provide a good measure of how this event has played out.
As we head into Friday morning some of the hysteria of the last three nights has begun to wind down. Callers to the talk shows not quite so apoplectic about the state of hockey in Vancouver, the reporters starting to calm down and get back to actually reporting news, as opposed to coating every word in an acerbic tirade.
While Bertuzzi disappears from the radar for a while, the games will continue. The playoffs will arrive and the Canucks will have to focus in on hockey. For Burke, the press conference today was the beginning of that transition, by becoming a lightning rod he probably is hoping to draw attention away from Bertuzzi, who has been under the microscope this week. Burke will also hope that his comments give the rest of the team, some space to get back to the job at hand.
For a guy that described himself as a lame duck less than a month ago, he's about to earn his pay. The success or failure of this team in the post season will rest squarely on the shoulders of Brian Burke, how he manages a very bad situation, will go a long way to defining how this team conducts itself. He prides himself on his loyalty to the players he has on his roster, the next month or so will go a long way to showing if his approach will show results. If not the media machine will once again be in overdrive, the papers, television and radio, all exhuming the remains of a season gone terribly wrong.
With the National media, indeed the continental media focusing on the events of Monday night with a glaring spotlight, the issue has become the main story in all media. But nowhere like Vancouver, has the issue been so all pervasive. The Newspapers have tackled the story with the same gusto one would expect of a gang war in the downtown core, hundreds of thousands of logs must have been sacrficed to keep the appetite of the reader fed over the last three days. The television stations have battled each other for space around GM Place, Vancouver General Hospital and in some instances at the foot of Bertuzzi's own driveway, all trying to get the scoop of the day, aiming to feed the media beast. And then there's the radio scene, one of the most hotly competitive talk radio wars takes place in Vancouver, no less than six local radio stations offer some form of talk radio, including two sports radio stations and the market leader in all talk radio. All seemed to dedicate their broadcast days to the Bertuzzi incident.
There was a thin wedge of truth in the statements by Burke today, many of the commentators seemed to take turns to tee off at Bertuzzi's conduct on the ice and his personality off of it. Now believe me his actions Monday night were terribly wrong, he's been punished by his league for his transgressions, now destined to serve his sentence from Colin Campbell. But some of the character assassination taking place the last few days seems a bit much. The concept of a sense of balance to the reporting, long gone with the media display. While I don't subscribe to Burke's conspiracy theory of a media vendetta against Bertuzzi, many of those in print, on television and radio could take a sober look at their comments and actions, of the last number of days.
The talk radio stations and the open line shows in particular, gave an open mike to anyone with a grudge or an ill informed opinion. The beauty and the danger of the democracy of an open line, is that the wise, reasoned contributors are provided a forum, side by side with the complete nutbars. In Vancouver, it would seem that it's a 50/50 split. Well thought out and heartfelt comments, given equal weight to the complete inane ravings of the silly and the bellicose.
To get just a small sample of the atmosphere around the Canucks today, check out the CKNW Audio Vault. While listening to the entire morning of Thursday's broadcast day would give one a wonderful overview, we realize that time is precious. So, for a thumbnail sketch of the media blitz listen to the 6 to 8 am block, just after the Bertuzzi announcement and then to the 10:00 portion of the Bill Good program when the Burke news conference was carried live. That should give you a sense of the complete domination of the media this entire event has taken on. For further research, go back over the last four nights of Dan Russell's sportstalk program 9-midnight (even longer Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday nights) the passion, anger and disappointment of the callers, guests and host as well, all provide a good measure of how this event has played out.
As we head into Friday morning some of the hysteria of the last three nights has begun to wind down. Callers to the talk shows not quite so apoplectic about the state of hockey in Vancouver, the reporters starting to calm down and get back to actually reporting news, as opposed to coating every word in an acerbic tirade.
While Bertuzzi disappears from the radar for a while, the games will continue. The playoffs will arrive and the Canucks will have to focus in on hockey. For Burke, the press conference today was the beginning of that transition, by becoming a lightning rod he probably is hoping to draw attention away from Bertuzzi, who has been under the microscope this week. Burke will also hope that his comments give the rest of the team, some space to get back to the job at hand.
For a guy that described himself as a lame duck less than a month ago, he's about to earn his pay. The success or failure of this team in the post season will rest squarely on the shoulders of Brian Burke, how he manages a very bad situation, will go a long way to defining how this team conducts itself. He prides himself on his loyalty to the players he has on his roster, the next month or so will go a long way to showing if his approach will show results. If not the media machine will once again be in overdrive, the papers, television and radio, all exhuming the remains of a season gone terribly wrong.
Mock them NOT!
Well, I your meek little servant, sit humbled in front of you tonight. I was working on a satirical piece, placing myself inside the TSN boardroom, as they sat down to work out the channels broadcast plans for this week. To take the form of an insiders memo, I was going to make a snarky remark about making sure the satellite uplink to Saskatoon was working right, hiring locals to go out and sweep the dish hourly. Having a TSN flunky make sure that Vic Rauter's hairstylist was on paid retainer, blow dryer at the ready for 24 hour emergency comb calls. And most importantly, to make sure that the all important Broom cam was working as designed. We would all then adjourn to the boardroom, to watch four hours of wild and wooly curling action, leaving an intern to guard the fax machine in case anything else important happened.
But now I shake my head in awe and bow down to the masters of television content. My poor attempt at satire shall go unfinished, for the Rocks brought ratings, what I thought would be a debacle turned out to be a ratings bonanza, go figure. TSN's combination of curling and hockey coverage apparently blew the competition away on Trading deadline day.
From William Houston's Truth and Numbers column comes this breakdown of the numbers. The sports channel drew 223,000 viewers for its afternoon coverage of the National Hockey League trade deadline and the developing story of Todd Bertuzzi's attack on Steve Moore. On a typical weekday, TSN averages 74,000 in the afternoon.
Rogers Sportsnet pulled in 108,000 viewers for its hockey coverage, less than half of TSN's audience, although Sportsnet was required to hold its viewership over six hours, from noon EST to 6 p.m., while TSN went with a shorter show, 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.
In a later edition he also passes on the results of a particularly strong performance by THE SCORE. The Score's NHL trade deadline coverage produced big numbers on Tuesday. The network averaged 74,000 viewers from noon to 6 p.m. EST, for a 118-per-cent increase from last year. From 4 p.m. to 5 p.m., The Score outdrew Sportsnet, with 124,000 viewers, compared with Sportsnet's 89,000.
I now, shall have to content myself with my mindless meanderings about hockey in this forum. Judging by the success of TSN's coverage this week, they don't need my advice in any way, shape or form. Like Bart Simpson made to stay late in the classroom, I pick up my piece of chalk. "I shall not mock TSN", "I shall not mock TSN"
But now I shake my head in awe and bow down to the masters of television content. My poor attempt at satire shall go unfinished, for the Rocks brought ratings, what I thought would be a debacle turned out to be a ratings bonanza, go figure. TSN's combination of curling and hockey coverage apparently blew the competition away on Trading deadline day.
From William Houston's Truth and Numbers column comes this breakdown of the numbers. The sports channel drew 223,000 viewers for its afternoon coverage of the National Hockey League trade deadline and the developing story of Todd Bertuzzi's attack on Steve Moore. On a typical weekday, TSN averages 74,000 in the afternoon.
Rogers Sportsnet pulled in 108,000 viewers for its hockey coverage, less than half of TSN's audience, although Sportsnet was required to hold its viewership over six hours, from noon EST to 6 p.m., while TSN went with a shorter show, 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.
In a later edition he also passes on the results of a particularly strong performance by THE SCORE. The Score's NHL trade deadline coverage produced big numbers on Tuesday. The network averaged 74,000 viewers from noon to 6 p.m. EST, for a 118-per-cent increase from last year. From 4 p.m. to 5 p.m., The Score outdrew Sportsnet, with 124,000 viewers, compared with Sportsnet's 89,000.
I now, shall have to content myself with my mindless meanderings about hockey in this forum. Judging by the success of TSN's coverage this week, they don't need my advice in any way, shape or form. Like Bart Simpson made to stay late in the classroom, I pick up my piece of chalk. "I shall not mock TSN", "I shall not mock TSN"
The Media Frenzy
Only one thing could take over the newspaper headlines, the television newscasts and the open line show topics on this day. Corruption in Ottawa, crime in the streets and troops in fields afar all took a back seat, as the Bertuzzi decision was announced. The Todd Bertuzzi/Steve Moore incident has ruled the media universe the last few days, with everyone weighing in with opinions on just what has happened to the national Sport.
The Globe and Mail has apparently turned over the entire newsgathering effort, to coverage of the much reviewed incident of Monday night. High profile national writer Roy MacGregor has delivered a number of well thought out essays on the incident of note and the state of the game in general. Jeffrey Simpson, normally assigned to the political beat turned his pen on the league, expressing revulsion at what he believes has become of the sport. Christie Blatchford was recruited from her study of crime today to do a point, counterpoint session with Stephen Brunt. Blatchford, a former sports reporter taking the approach that the media need to take a deep breath amidst all their hysteria, Brunt calling for the game to be changed for the good of all. Sportswriter Eric Duhatschek taking the approach of examining if the decision today, will change anything in a league that lives by the "code". All in all the Globe's attention to the story, is going to have the paper's payroll department cutting overtime cheques for a month.
At the Toronto Star, Damien Cox presented two well thought out pieces on the Bertuzzi affair over the last 48 hours. One an examination of the culture of violence in the NHL, the other a plea for a change before someone dies!
The Sun newspaper chain gave pretty well everyone a chance to vent on the emotional issue. Steve Simmons expressing the thought that the NHL, needs to show it is serious now about reforming the game. Eric Francis urged the league to send a strong message to it's players. Ryan Pyette explored how history would look at Bertuzzi's actions. Morris Dalla Costa called for an end to the prehistoric machismo running through the NHL. Al Strachan trying to put himself into Colin Campbell's shoes and what he would be looking at in his decision.
So many observations on what seems to have taken over our national agenda. The media will eventually return to the other stories of the day, the ones that impact Canadians in their day to day lives. But today everyone had an opinion on the state of the health of Steve Moore and the state of the health of the game he plays.
The Globe and Mail has apparently turned over the entire newsgathering effort, to coverage of the much reviewed incident of Monday night. High profile national writer Roy MacGregor has delivered a number of well thought out essays on the incident of note and the state of the game in general. Jeffrey Simpson, normally assigned to the political beat turned his pen on the league, expressing revulsion at what he believes has become of the sport. Christie Blatchford was recruited from her study of crime today to do a point, counterpoint session with Stephen Brunt. Blatchford, a former sports reporter taking the approach that the media need to take a deep breath amidst all their hysteria, Brunt calling for the game to be changed for the good of all. Sportswriter Eric Duhatschek taking the approach of examining if the decision today, will change anything in a league that lives by the "code". All in all the Globe's attention to the story, is going to have the paper's payroll department cutting overtime cheques for a month.
At the Toronto Star, Damien Cox presented two well thought out pieces on the Bertuzzi affair over the last 48 hours. One an examination of the culture of violence in the NHL, the other a plea for a change before someone dies!
The Sun newspaper chain gave pretty well everyone a chance to vent on the emotional issue. Steve Simmons expressing the thought that the NHL, needs to show it is serious now about reforming the game. Eric Francis urged the league to send a strong message to it's players. Ryan Pyette explored how history would look at Bertuzzi's actions. Morris Dalla Costa called for an end to the prehistoric machismo running through the NHL. Al Strachan trying to put himself into Colin Campbell's shoes and what he would be looking at in his decision.
So many observations on what seems to have taken over our national agenda. The media will eventually return to the other stories of the day, the ones that impact Canadians in their day to day lives. But today everyone had an opinion on the state of the health of Steve Moore and the state of the health of the game he plays.
The Decision
Suspended for the rest of the season, the playoffs and we revisit the situation prior to the next season. That is the fate of Todd Bertuzzi, for his much examined attack on Steve Moore.
Colin Campbell's decision was announced at 6 am Pacific time, a not unexpected ruling as many observers had come to the conclusion that some kind of message had to be spent this time. The League also fined the Vancouver Canucks 250,000 dollars for not exhibiting better control on the passions of their players. Which while a wonderful statement of accountability, rings with all the sincerity of installing a smoke detector after the house has burned down.
The NHL has forever and a day held a double standard on violence on the ice and this week the chickens came home to roost. The Canucks/Avalanche animosity had been building for three weeks, indeed the dislike for each other has intensified over the years. But the immediate troubles began in mid February, when Steve Moore elbowed Marcus Naslund at centre ice at the Pepsi Centre. The resulting concussion and lacerations took Naslund out of the Canucks line up for close to ten days. There was no penalty called on that play, let alone a suspension, a situation that left coach Marc Crawford apoplectic.
The Canucks management expressed disgust at the play of Moore, the players on the team vowing that some kind of revenge would be exacted for the transgression. The rhetoric growing with each passing day, players and management fuming over the situation. The league issued no public warnings at that time, nary a word, Gary Bettman and Colin Campbell attended the next Canucks/Avs matchup, a game which was a hard hitting affair but did not deteriorate as the one on Monday night. Feeling that the situation had been resolved, it became business as usual in the NHL.
After that we were treated to the Flyers and Senators setting a new NHL record for fighting penalties in a game, the entire third period of that game given over to shift fighting, every line change resulted in a brawl. By the end of the game only six or seven players were left on the respective benches. The after game histrionics just as ridiculous as the on ice activity, Bobby Clarke pounding on the Senator dressing room calling for Jacques Martin to come out. Reminding the media that the Senators had to come through Philadelphia one more time this year. Veiled threats from coach Ken Hitchcock, that Senator player Martin Havlat would soon be handed his lunch. Again, there was no comment from the League.
In fact it has been the leagues inaction over the years on the ever increasing stick fouls,uncalled for cheap shots and brawling that has set the table for the problems of today. There are far too many incidents to list but a couple of examples, might best exemplify how inaction has caused the black eye of the sport these days.
Martin Havlats high stick on Mark Recchi just one of many stick fouls in the NHL this year, Havlat a repeat offender on high sticks, should have been suspended for the incident.
Bobby Clarke's and Ken Hitchock's ruminations on the same incident, they implicitly declared a fatwa on the Senators by their comments. The league should have fined and suspended both for conduct detrimental to the game.
There has yet to be any suspension announced from that record setting penalty filled Friday Night game, one wonders how a game could rack up that many penalty minutes and not have anyone suspended!
Likewise the comments of the Canucks Brad May, who first brought up the idea of a bounty on Moore after the Naslund incident. Had the league expressed any kind of concern at that time, perhaps the entire ugly affair on Monday night would not have taken place. Marc Crawford and Brian Burke's comments did nothing to defuse the festering situation. No warnings were issued publicly, perhaps in the quiet study room at the NHL headquarters they made a few calls, but as far as the public was concerned the spiraling commentary only promised a settling of accounts.
Remember Claude Lemieux and Kris Draper, Lemieux suspended only two games for his blatant hit from behind on Draper, no was message sent then. The rivalry of the Avs and Red Wings continually bringing up the incidents of the past, as a form of marketing at times.
Matt Johnson's attack on Jeff Beukeboom, Johnson was back after a ten game suspension, Beukeboom never returned to play. Johnson going on to other infamous incidents over the years.
You can find many more examples through the years.
The simple fact is the NHL has no idea how to run the day to day activity of the game. Until the parameters are laid out completely for all teams, these situations will continue to occur over and over again.
Rules for stickwork have got to be made clear, punishment increased. Same thing for fighting, a fight per game you should be gone, ten minutes no longer a sufficient form of punishment nor message. And somehow the league has got to get the message across to it's players, that they are responsible for their actions and need to show more respect for each other than they do now.
The suspension issued today to Todd Bertuzzi was deserved and wholly appropriate, it punishes him and his team for what was a very ugly incident. It doesn't address the larger issue of overall culpability however, the League itself needs to take a good long hard at it's stewardship of the sport. The wink and a nod days are done, otherwise the reputation of a great game will continue to find itself under the glare of scrutiny. The hypocrisy of the league officials, stands out as one of the key components of the situation. Had they exhibited a more proactive approach to events under their domain, perhaps we could be discussing goals, games won and playoff drives, rather than suspensions, injuries and police investigations.
Colin Campbell's decision was announced at 6 am Pacific time, a not unexpected ruling as many observers had come to the conclusion that some kind of message had to be spent this time. The League also fined the Vancouver Canucks 250,000 dollars for not exhibiting better control on the passions of their players. Which while a wonderful statement of accountability, rings with all the sincerity of installing a smoke detector after the house has burned down.
The NHL has forever and a day held a double standard on violence on the ice and this week the chickens came home to roost. The Canucks/Avalanche animosity had been building for three weeks, indeed the dislike for each other has intensified over the years. But the immediate troubles began in mid February, when Steve Moore elbowed Marcus Naslund at centre ice at the Pepsi Centre. The resulting concussion and lacerations took Naslund out of the Canucks line up for close to ten days. There was no penalty called on that play, let alone a suspension, a situation that left coach Marc Crawford apoplectic.
The Canucks management expressed disgust at the play of Moore, the players on the team vowing that some kind of revenge would be exacted for the transgression. The rhetoric growing with each passing day, players and management fuming over the situation. The league issued no public warnings at that time, nary a word, Gary Bettman and Colin Campbell attended the next Canucks/Avs matchup, a game which was a hard hitting affair but did not deteriorate as the one on Monday night. Feeling that the situation had been resolved, it became business as usual in the NHL.
After that we were treated to the Flyers and Senators setting a new NHL record for fighting penalties in a game, the entire third period of that game given over to shift fighting, every line change resulted in a brawl. By the end of the game only six or seven players were left on the respective benches. The after game histrionics just as ridiculous as the on ice activity, Bobby Clarke pounding on the Senator dressing room calling for Jacques Martin to come out. Reminding the media that the Senators had to come through Philadelphia one more time this year. Veiled threats from coach Ken Hitchcock, that Senator player Martin Havlat would soon be handed his lunch. Again, there was no comment from the League.
In fact it has been the leagues inaction over the years on the ever increasing stick fouls,uncalled for cheap shots and brawling that has set the table for the problems of today. There are far too many incidents to list but a couple of examples, might best exemplify how inaction has caused the black eye of the sport these days.
Martin Havlats high stick on Mark Recchi just one of many stick fouls in the NHL this year, Havlat a repeat offender on high sticks, should have been suspended for the incident.
Bobby Clarke's and Ken Hitchock's ruminations on the same incident, they implicitly declared a fatwa on the Senators by their comments. The league should have fined and suspended both for conduct detrimental to the game.
There has yet to be any suspension announced from that record setting penalty filled Friday Night game, one wonders how a game could rack up that many penalty minutes and not have anyone suspended!
Likewise the comments of the Canucks Brad May, who first brought up the idea of a bounty on Moore after the Naslund incident. Had the league expressed any kind of concern at that time, perhaps the entire ugly affair on Monday night would not have taken place. Marc Crawford and Brian Burke's comments did nothing to defuse the festering situation. No warnings were issued publicly, perhaps in the quiet study room at the NHL headquarters they made a few calls, but as far as the public was concerned the spiraling commentary only promised a settling of accounts.
Remember Claude Lemieux and Kris Draper, Lemieux suspended only two games for his blatant hit from behind on Draper, no was message sent then. The rivalry of the Avs and Red Wings continually bringing up the incidents of the past, as a form of marketing at times.
Matt Johnson's attack on Jeff Beukeboom, Johnson was back after a ten game suspension, Beukeboom never returned to play. Johnson going on to other infamous incidents over the years.
You can find many more examples through the years.
The simple fact is the NHL has no idea how to run the day to day activity of the game. Until the parameters are laid out completely for all teams, these situations will continue to occur over and over again.
Rules for stickwork have got to be made clear, punishment increased. Same thing for fighting, a fight per game you should be gone, ten minutes no longer a sufficient form of punishment nor message. And somehow the league has got to get the message across to it's players, that they are responsible for their actions and need to show more respect for each other than they do now.
The suspension issued today to Todd Bertuzzi was deserved and wholly appropriate, it punishes him and his team for what was a very ugly incident. It doesn't address the larger issue of overall culpability however, the League itself needs to take a good long hard at it's stewardship of the sport. The wink and a nod days are done, otherwise the reputation of a great game will continue to find itself under the glare of scrutiny. The hypocrisy of the league officials, stands out as one of the key components of the situation. Had they exhibited a more proactive approach to events under their domain, perhaps we could be discussing goals, games won and playoff drives, rather than suspensions, injuries and police investigations.
Wednesday, March 10, 2004
The precedent of Richard
Thursday morning across British Columbia, alarm clocks will ring just prior to 6 am. Canuck fans, Hockey fans and casual observers alike, will awaken to learn the fate of Canuck's forward Todd Bertuzzi. Having appeared in Toronto earlier today for a disciplinary hearing, Bertuzzi will learn his fate when the verdict is delivered Thursday at 9 am Toronto time, 6 am on a Vancouver clock.
Many observations have been made about the expected length of a suspension, the McSorley/Brashear incident used as a template, or the Matt Johnson hit on Jeff Beukeboom another yardstick. But should one want to learn of a similar type of incident that went down in hockey and Canadian history, look back to March of 1955 and the suspension of Rocket Richard. It might make for a suggestion as what awaits Bertuzzi.
Richard was also involved in a terrible on ice incident in the third period of a game on March 13, against the Bruins. Richard's temper getting the better of him, hit Bruin forward Hal Laycoe on the head with his stick, actually using three separate sticks in the process. As the situation deteriorated on the ice, Richard made the mistake of punching twice, linesman Cliff Thompson as well. The justice was swift on the 16th, Clarence Campbell held a hearing and suspended Richard for the rest of the regular season and the playoffs. Effectively stopping Richard's chance to win the scoring championship that year. Mayhem took to the streets of Montreal the night of the 17th, as Campbell foolishly attended a Canadiens/Wings game at the Forum. By the end of the night rioting up and down Ste. Catherine Street left the downtown part of the city a mess and the Quebec Quiet revolution had begun.
Now while the two incidents are not totally similar, they both involved players considered key to their respective teams. Richard was a hard nosed forward, with a gift of a scoring touch. The original design of the power forward. It's a role that Bertuzzi has played to similar success over the years for the Canucks. While he is not Rocket Richard, Bertuzzi is one of the top players on his team, a definite reason for their success on the ice. The Richard incident was unique as it involved repeated run ins with officials but the violence of that night, as in the Bertuzzi incident shocked many.
When the suspension is announced in the morning, the streets of Vancouver will remain safe, Gary Bettman most likely able to travel to watch hockey at GM Place ,without fear of an uprising of the fans. For the most part, Vancouver fans are just as distraught at the actions of Monday night as anyone. Indeed tonight many sat glued to their television sets, as Todd Bertuzzi himself did an act of contrition. A moving and emotional apology to Steve Moore, the game of hockey and the fans of the game. Even the most cynical of people, will have to admit that Bertuzzi's honesty in apology could not be questioned. The timing of the apology probably the best indicator of the sincerity, had he made the apology before his hearing it would have been construed as grandstanding for a lesser sentence. He must know that his fate is sealed, thus if nothing else, the apology is a valid heartfelt statement from someone who truly appears to be sorry. It should not and will not have any bearing on his suspension.
Thursday morning as the Vancouver alarms clocks ring out at 6am, Bertuzzi will join The Rocket. His team like Montreal of 1955, will have to face the playoffs without one of their leaders. The suspension will be for the rest of the season and the entire playoffs. Fourty nine years separate the two incidents, two players who formed a major part of their teams personna, now twinned together in NHL history. More importantly we realize that the games violence is still an underlying theme of the sport, 49 years of history show us that work still needs to be done.
Many observations have been made about the expected length of a suspension, the McSorley/Brashear incident used as a template, or the Matt Johnson hit on Jeff Beukeboom another yardstick. But should one want to learn of a similar type of incident that went down in hockey and Canadian history, look back to March of 1955 and the suspension of Rocket Richard. It might make for a suggestion as what awaits Bertuzzi.
Richard was also involved in a terrible on ice incident in the third period of a game on March 13, against the Bruins. Richard's temper getting the better of him, hit Bruin forward Hal Laycoe on the head with his stick, actually using three separate sticks in the process. As the situation deteriorated on the ice, Richard made the mistake of punching twice, linesman Cliff Thompson as well. The justice was swift on the 16th, Clarence Campbell held a hearing and suspended Richard for the rest of the regular season and the playoffs. Effectively stopping Richard's chance to win the scoring championship that year. Mayhem took to the streets of Montreal the night of the 17th, as Campbell foolishly attended a Canadiens/Wings game at the Forum. By the end of the night rioting up and down Ste. Catherine Street left the downtown part of the city a mess and the Quebec Quiet revolution had begun.
Now while the two incidents are not totally similar, they both involved players considered key to their respective teams. Richard was a hard nosed forward, with a gift of a scoring touch. The original design of the power forward. It's a role that Bertuzzi has played to similar success over the years for the Canucks. While he is not Rocket Richard, Bertuzzi is one of the top players on his team, a definite reason for their success on the ice. The Richard incident was unique as it involved repeated run ins with officials but the violence of that night, as in the Bertuzzi incident shocked many.
When the suspension is announced in the morning, the streets of Vancouver will remain safe, Gary Bettman most likely able to travel to watch hockey at GM Place ,without fear of an uprising of the fans. For the most part, Vancouver fans are just as distraught at the actions of Monday night as anyone. Indeed tonight many sat glued to their television sets, as Todd Bertuzzi himself did an act of contrition. A moving and emotional apology to Steve Moore, the game of hockey and the fans of the game. Even the most cynical of people, will have to admit that Bertuzzi's honesty in apology could not be questioned. The timing of the apology probably the best indicator of the sincerity, had he made the apology before his hearing it would have been construed as grandstanding for a lesser sentence. He must know that his fate is sealed, thus if nothing else, the apology is a valid heartfelt statement from someone who truly appears to be sorry. It should not and will not have any bearing on his suspension.
Thursday morning as the Vancouver alarms clocks ring out at 6am, Bertuzzi will join The Rocket. His team like Montreal of 1955, will have to face the playoffs without one of their leaders. The suspension will be for the rest of the season and the entire playoffs. Fourty nine years separate the two incidents, two players who formed a major part of their teams personna, now twinned together in NHL history. More importantly we realize that the games violence is still an underlying theme of the sport, 49 years of history show us that work still needs to be done.
Tuesday, March 09, 2004
Deadline TV
Six hours to fill, rumors, examinations of trades, mindless babbling, we got it all. Probably the most intensive day on Canadian sports television, the NHL Trading Deadline Day, reality television for the arm chair athlete.
All were prepared with their armies of experts, Sportsnet with Kypreos, Stellick, Waters and Gilmour (did he ever come out of retirement and sign with Detroit?), Paul Maurice, Joel Quennville, Mike Keenan, more ex coaches than you could find at an EI office. And way too many Darrens for one show! (I got vertigo as we passed the mic from Darren to Darren) Opinions fast and furious, fact and fiction. For the most part they did a good job, a few too many appearances by Hazel May (is she always this loud all morning, God if you had a hangover that's the last thing you would want to hear). But they had the stories and trades fast and for the most part correct. And most of all NO CURLING!!
Now not to offend the many fans of the roaring game, but interrupting your comprehensive Draft Day coverage to follow the latest rocks as TSN did, just seems rather dumb. TSN which has a rather solid stable of Hockey Experts, Pierre McGuire, Dave Hodge, Steve Simmons, Damian Cox, et al, spent far too much time chasing down the curling game, while their compatriots at Sportsnet and even The Score, were debating the breaking news of the hour. The TSN crawler at the bottom of the screen a nice attempt at keeping current, but hockey fans would have gone to where the hockey was. A poor decision by TSN, I'm sure there is a reasonable answer for their unusual broadcast day strategy, but one suspects they suffered for their choice.
The folks at THE SCORE did their best to keep current, but one always gets the impression that The Score is run like Wayne's World, I keep expecting to see Mike Myers with his Hawks sweater popping up, to discuss whether Stan Mikita was indeed the best Hawk. To their credit The Score did go live to press conferences first a lot of the times, though their scoop was quickly countered by a press conference of unending boredom. But at least they were talking about the topic at hand, not trying to fit the events in between sweeps and yells of hurry!
The Trading Day Deadline usually brings out the competitive juices in the various sports networks in Canada, there is no other event where the three use all their assets and call in their markers. It will be interesting to see which channel comes out on top when the ratings are released.
All were prepared with their armies of experts, Sportsnet with Kypreos, Stellick, Waters and Gilmour (did he ever come out of retirement and sign with Detroit?), Paul Maurice, Joel Quennville, Mike Keenan, more ex coaches than you could find at an EI office. And way too many Darrens for one show! (I got vertigo as we passed the mic from Darren to Darren) Opinions fast and furious, fact and fiction. For the most part they did a good job, a few too many appearances by Hazel May (is she always this loud all morning, God if you had a hangover that's the last thing you would want to hear). But they had the stories and trades fast and for the most part correct. And most of all NO CURLING!!
Now not to offend the many fans of the roaring game, but interrupting your comprehensive Draft Day coverage to follow the latest rocks as TSN did, just seems rather dumb. TSN which has a rather solid stable of Hockey Experts, Pierre McGuire, Dave Hodge, Steve Simmons, Damian Cox, et al, spent far too much time chasing down the curling game, while their compatriots at Sportsnet and even The Score, were debating the breaking news of the hour. The TSN crawler at the bottom of the screen a nice attempt at keeping current, but hockey fans would have gone to where the hockey was. A poor decision by TSN, I'm sure there is a reasonable answer for their unusual broadcast day strategy, but one suspects they suffered for their choice.
The folks at THE SCORE did their best to keep current, but one always gets the impression that The Score is run like Wayne's World, I keep expecting to see Mike Myers with his Hawks sweater popping up, to discuss whether Stan Mikita was indeed the best Hawk. To their credit The Score did go live to press conferences first a lot of the times, though their scoop was quickly countered by a press conference of unending boredom. But at least they were talking about the topic at hand, not trying to fit the events in between sweeps and yells of hurry!
The Trading Day Deadline usually brings out the competitive juices in the various sports networks in Canada, there is no other event where the three use all their assets and call in their markers. It will be interesting to see which channel comes out on top when the ratings are released.
Bertuzzi
It's the name on everyone's lips today, even folks that barely follow the sport know about Todd Bertuzzi, forward of the Vancouver Canucks. The hit on Steve Moore has been replayed over and over again, on Sportsnet, TSN, The Score, Newsworld, CNN, ESPN it's everywhere, looking uglier and uglier with every repetition.
Over the years I have enjoyed the way Todd Bertuzzi played the game, until last night at least. For the most part he's been the integral part of the Canucks success the last few years. When he's on his game, there is no better forward on the ice. He takes the whacks in front of the net, creates his space, makes the perfect pass, scores the highlight goals and makes the hard legal hits. He stands up for his team mates and at times seems to be the only one able to drag his team back into a game, they by all rights should lose. In short he's been the complete deal.
That's why it's so hard to fathom what possibly had gone through his head last night at GM Place. He's quick to frustration and has taken many stupid penalties in the past, but never have we seen him conduct himself in the manner he did last night. The last time he was suspended by the NHL was when he came to the aid of a fellow player, being manhandled in a fight with Minnesota. A move that cost his team his services but at the time was considered the move of a team leader. Last night he was not a team leader, he was a selfish bounty hunter, who not only hurt his team but has damaged the image of his sport.
He will face the NHL justice minister on Wednesday morning, perhaps a Justice of the BC courts later on in the year! Colin Campbell will be in the unenviable position of having to seriously hurt a team's playoff hopes, by banishing it's star player for most likely the rest of the season and a good portion, if not all of the playoffs. That seems to be the consensus, that an example will have to be made. Campbell with an eye on last weeks dust up between Philadelphia and Ottawa, knows that the spotlights are on him from many directions. The League has to gain control of it's players, the lack of respect on the ice of the last season is an issue that has to be addressed. The blatant disregard for the safety and protection of it's players, the eyes that have almost been lost by careless sticks, the mindless fighting for the sake of a fight, the pointless cycle of act and retribution, it's taking it's toll on the game.
The terrible part of all of this, beyond the immedtiate health of Steve Moore in his hospital bed, is the fan losing respect for the game. It's hard to view Todd Bertuzzi in the same light as 24 hours ago, he will eventually play again in the NHL, but the respect from his peers will be diminished greatly. A player that many found entertaining to watch, now will be viewed from a totally different perspective. It's always sad when you find those you respect the most, slip out of your range of admiration.
But we, as fans may be as culpable as anyone else, we cheer the fights, the heavy hits, is it any wonder the next step gets taken. But an uneasy feeling was left with many last night, watching Steve Moore carted off the ice on a stretcher, as pandemonium evolved all around him. With each televised repetition of the hit, the feeling comes back, perhaps it's a sense of guilt, a litte shame for us to live with. We may not have made that infamous hit, but we share in it's repercussions.
The following are two journalists who put the entire situation into much better perspective than I, they're well worth a read. Their thoughts on the state of our game provide some food for thought.
Roy MacGregor
Eric Duhatschek
Over the years I have enjoyed the way Todd Bertuzzi played the game, until last night at least. For the most part he's been the integral part of the Canucks success the last few years. When he's on his game, there is no better forward on the ice. He takes the whacks in front of the net, creates his space, makes the perfect pass, scores the highlight goals and makes the hard legal hits. He stands up for his team mates and at times seems to be the only one able to drag his team back into a game, they by all rights should lose. In short he's been the complete deal.
That's why it's so hard to fathom what possibly had gone through his head last night at GM Place. He's quick to frustration and has taken many stupid penalties in the past, but never have we seen him conduct himself in the manner he did last night. The last time he was suspended by the NHL was when he came to the aid of a fellow player, being manhandled in a fight with Minnesota. A move that cost his team his services but at the time was considered the move of a team leader. Last night he was not a team leader, he was a selfish bounty hunter, who not only hurt his team but has damaged the image of his sport.
He will face the NHL justice minister on Wednesday morning, perhaps a Justice of the BC courts later on in the year! Colin Campbell will be in the unenviable position of having to seriously hurt a team's playoff hopes, by banishing it's star player for most likely the rest of the season and a good portion, if not all of the playoffs. That seems to be the consensus, that an example will have to be made. Campbell with an eye on last weeks dust up between Philadelphia and Ottawa, knows that the spotlights are on him from many directions. The League has to gain control of it's players, the lack of respect on the ice of the last season is an issue that has to be addressed. The blatant disregard for the safety and protection of it's players, the eyes that have almost been lost by careless sticks, the mindless fighting for the sake of a fight, the pointless cycle of act and retribution, it's taking it's toll on the game.
The terrible part of all of this, beyond the immedtiate health of Steve Moore in his hospital bed, is the fan losing respect for the game. It's hard to view Todd Bertuzzi in the same light as 24 hours ago, he will eventually play again in the NHL, but the respect from his peers will be diminished greatly. A player that many found entertaining to watch, now will be viewed from a totally different perspective. It's always sad when you find those you respect the most, slip out of your range of admiration.
But we, as fans may be as culpable as anyone else, we cheer the fights, the heavy hits, is it any wonder the next step gets taken. But an uneasy feeling was left with many last night, watching Steve Moore carted off the ice on a stretcher, as pandemonium evolved all around him. With each televised repetition of the hit, the feeling comes back, perhaps it's a sense of guilt, a litte shame for us to live with. We may not have made that infamous hit, but we share in it's repercussions.
The following are two journalists who put the entire situation into much better perspective than I, they're well worth a read. Their thoughts on the state of our game provide some food for thought.
Roy MacGregor
Eric Duhatschek
Cauncks fill in the holes
Brian Burke had a very busy Tuesday, he had the Todd Bertuzzi situation to worry about. Endless media questions about his feelings on the ugly incident at GM Place, requests for his expectations on the discipline to come. What his thoughts were of Steve Moore lying in a Vancouver Hospital bed, as the NHL went back to it's regular business. Burke had to make plans to fly to Toronto, to appear with Todd Bertuzzi in front of the NHL discipline board Wednesday morning. With all of that swirling around him, he had to try and rebuild his team knowing that most likely, one of his top players will not be available to him for the rest of the season, and more than likely the playoffs as well.
So perhaps it's understandable that he didn't make any moves until the deadline was ticking down to the last seconds. Burke added some offensive punch to his team by bringing in Martin Rucinsky from Glen Sathers deep discount emporium, giving up a couple of hand from Manitoba and a prospect. He then picked up Geoff Sanderson from Columbus, partially filling a hole for the now absent Bertuzzi.
Not blockbuster trades by any stretch of the matter, but a solid bit of team building without giving up any of his core group that has made the Canucks a team on the rise (until last night anyways). The simple fact is that replacing a power forward such as Bertuzzi, is not going to happen. When Bertuzzi plays his game properly, he is one of the most effective players on the ice. There are not many of his pure talent out there, even few are traded away on a deadline day. Which is why his behavior last night is so disappointing to Canuck fans, by his actions at GM place he has severely depleted the depth of his team, no one Burke could have found today would change that. Burke did the best he possibly could considering the situation he was in, most teams realized he was in a position of weakness now and could have demanded much of the core he has built. Picking up a Pronger, Leetch or a Bondra would come at a higher price for Burke, the other GM's know that he was in need, there being no charity in that fraternity in times like these.
The one move Burke did not make was not unexpected, while many had expressed doubts in goaltender Dan Cloutier (and Monday night did nothing to allay those fears) Burke is standing with him. Olaf Kolzig while out on the market did not get moved by Washington, Tommy Salo will rebuild his career on a rental basis in Colorado. Sean Burke went to Philadelphia weeks ago, his namesake in the GM's office not interested in him. Burke will cross his fingers and hope that Cloutier can get it together for the playoff run, now more than ever it will be time for him to rise up large to the occasion.
The new players will fit in well with the Canucks, Rucinsky probably to be placed with the Sedin's hopefully to spur them on further in their journey this year. Sanderson, while not the same level of a Bertuzzi will most likely be of assistance to the scoring punch as well, the sadness is that rather than being a compliment to the current team they are now the plugs to fill the leaks. Add them to a team that still had Bertuzzi to depend on and they might be the ingredient to take them to the top. Instead, they may only be able to stop the bottom from falling out.
It's been a challenging few months for Burke, his contract status taking on a life of it's own in the media and around the hockey mad province. The inconsistent nature of his team has been a cause for alarm, loyal as he is Burke refused to trade the central group of players he has assembled. But things have a whole different look now, the last 24 hours have made a big difference to this season of the Vancouver Canucks. Burke has done his best at the last minute to try and salvage things, it's now up to his players to prove he is on the right track.
So perhaps it's understandable that he didn't make any moves until the deadline was ticking down to the last seconds. Burke added some offensive punch to his team by bringing in Martin Rucinsky from Glen Sathers deep discount emporium, giving up a couple of hand from Manitoba and a prospect. He then picked up Geoff Sanderson from Columbus, partially filling a hole for the now absent Bertuzzi.
Not blockbuster trades by any stretch of the matter, but a solid bit of team building without giving up any of his core group that has made the Canucks a team on the rise (until last night anyways). The simple fact is that replacing a power forward such as Bertuzzi, is not going to happen. When Bertuzzi plays his game properly, he is one of the most effective players on the ice. There are not many of his pure talent out there, even few are traded away on a deadline day. Which is why his behavior last night is so disappointing to Canuck fans, by his actions at GM place he has severely depleted the depth of his team, no one Burke could have found today would change that. Burke did the best he possibly could considering the situation he was in, most teams realized he was in a position of weakness now and could have demanded much of the core he has built. Picking up a Pronger, Leetch or a Bondra would come at a higher price for Burke, the other GM's know that he was in need, there being no charity in that fraternity in times like these.
The one move Burke did not make was not unexpected, while many had expressed doubts in goaltender Dan Cloutier (and Monday night did nothing to allay those fears) Burke is standing with him. Olaf Kolzig while out on the market did not get moved by Washington, Tommy Salo will rebuild his career on a rental basis in Colorado. Sean Burke went to Philadelphia weeks ago, his namesake in the GM's office not interested in him. Burke will cross his fingers and hope that Cloutier can get it together for the playoff run, now more than ever it will be time for him to rise up large to the occasion.
The new players will fit in well with the Canucks, Rucinsky probably to be placed with the Sedin's hopefully to spur them on further in their journey this year. Sanderson, while not the same level of a Bertuzzi will most likely be of assistance to the scoring punch as well, the sadness is that rather than being a compliment to the current team they are now the plugs to fill the leaks. Add them to a team that still had Bertuzzi to depend on and they might be the ingredient to take them to the top. Instead, they may only be able to stop the bottom from falling out.
It's been a challenging few months for Burke, his contract status taking on a life of it's own in the media and around the hockey mad province. The inconsistent nature of his team has been a cause for alarm, loyal as he is Burke refused to trade the central group of players he has assembled. But things have a whole different look now, the last 24 hours have made a big difference to this season of the Vancouver Canucks. Burke has done his best at the last minute to try and salvage things, it's now up to his players to prove he is on the right track.
Your Say
So which team do you think had the most success this trade day? Who will prove to be the most valuable asset acquired, Brian Leetch, Peter Bondra, Matthew Barnaby? Perhaps you have some insight for the rest of us about the strategy of the GM's today.
Use the comments section below to share with us. HockeyNation wants you to examine the deals and the steals.
Give us a shout, it's your turn to be a correspondent!
Use the comments section below to share with us. HockeyNation wants you to examine the deals and the steals.
Give us a shout, it's your turn to be a correspondent!
Hit after Hit
HockeyNation thanks all those folks that cruised by the site this busy trading day. While your humble servant was sitting in the dental chair, having his dentist carve his initials into my wisdom teeth, you were clicking and clicking and clicking.
From all over North America, to Europe and parts of Australia (G'day), and parts in between HockeyNation feels so loved. There has been lots to digest in the past 24 hours, a black eye for the sport on the ice in Vancouver and U hauls getting reserved across North America.
We've begun the task of examining the rosters as they sit after Noon today, we'll look for the trends and sift through the changes to see which teams we think may have the leg up for the playoffs.
Bear with us as we struggle through our novacaine haze to try and figure it all out.
But thanks for the Hits, we feel like we've been nailed by Barry Beck at the blue line, but we feel goooood!
From all over North America, to Europe and parts of Australia (G'day), and parts in between HockeyNation feels so loved. There has been lots to digest in the past 24 hours, a black eye for the sport on the ice in Vancouver and U hauls getting reserved across North America.
We've begun the task of examining the rosters as they sit after Noon today, we'll look for the trends and sift through the changes to see which teams we think may have the leg up for the playoffs.
Bear with us as we struggle through our novacaine haze to try and figure it all out.
But thanks for the Hits, we feel like we've been nailed by Barry Beck at the blue line, but we feel goooood!
Colorado tinkers a bit more
Pierre Lacroix continued his tradition of deadline day deals to add more depth to his team. Taking time out from following the medical status of Steve Moore, Lacroix made two deals for his team that will certainly make things more comfortable for coach Tony Granato.
Lacroix acquired Tommy Salo from the Edmonton Oilers, planning on having him back up David Aebischer in the Avs net for the playoff run. Salo will probably only be a rental player in Colorado, an insurance policy in case Aebischer gets injured or starts to falter. Salo had lost the confidence of GM Kevin Lowe and his Oiler team mates, Ty Conklin taking over the reins of the Oiler last line of defence.
The big move for the Avs today was bringing in Chris Gratton to Colorado from Phoenix. The big centre will add some strength and size to the Avs attack, possibly filling in for Peter Forsberg if his injuries don't heal as fast as the Avs would like. When Forsberg comes back, Gratton is yet another part of the Avs attack. Gratton came at a price though, with the Avs having to give up Derek Morris a solid part of the blue line corps in Colorado.
Prior to the deadline day today, the Avs also picked up Matthew Barnaby, the ever present yapping pest, who adds the irritation factor to a line up that seems to have no shortage of it. However, he will fit in well in Colorado, remember the success Claude Lemieux had there, even if he wasn't popular in his own dressing room, he added an edge, Barnaby will fill that same role in Av's colours.
While Lacroix was busy working the phones he was also speaking out on the hit on Steve Moore by Todd Bertuzzi. Not delving too much into what he expects to happen from the NHL office, he did express the belief that there's no place for that kind of behavior in the NHL these days. The latest report on Moore was that he had suffered a neck fracture, cracked vertebrae, a concussion and facial lacerations. Bertuzzi is to appear in Toronto tomorrow to learn of his hockey fate, it's to be determined if he will face any legal proceedings for Monday nights incident.
Lacroix acquired Tommy Salo from the Edmonton Oilers, planning on having him back up David Aebischer in the Avs net for the playoff run. Salo will probably only be a rental player in Colorado, an insurance policy in case Aebischer gets injured or starts to falter. Salo had lost the confidence of GM Kevin Lowe and his Oiler team mates, Ty Conklin taking over the reins of the Oiler last line of defence.
The big move for the Avs today was bringing in Chris Gratton to Colorado from Phoenix. The big centre will add some strength and size to the Avs attack, possibly filling in for Peter Forsberg if his injuries don't heal as fast as the Avs would like. When Forsberg comes back, Gratton is yet another part of the Avs attack. Gratton came at a price though, with the Avs having to give up Derek Morris a solid part of the blue line corps in Colorado.
Prior to the deadline day today, the Avs also picked up Matthew Barnaby, the ever present yapping pest, who adds the irritation factor to a line up that seems to have no shortage of it. However, he will fit in well in Colorado, remember the success Claude Lemieux had there, even if he wasn't popular in his own dressing room, he added an edge, Barnaby will fill that same role in Av's colours.
While Lacroix was busy working the phones he was also speaking out on the hit on Steve Moore by Todd Bertuzzi. Not delving too much into what he expects to happen from the NHL office, he did express the belief that there's no place for that kind of behavior in the NHL these days. The latest report on Moore was that he had suffered a neck fracture, cracked vertebrae, a concussion and facial lacerations. Bertuzzi is to appear in Toronto tomorrow to learn of his hockey fate, it's to be determined if he will face any legal proceedings for Monday nights incident.
Solid upgrade for the Senators
John Muckler made a pretty good move at the deadline today. Bringing in Greg DeVries to add depth to an already impressive defence. Giving up relatively little in return, sending Karl Rachunek off to the Rangers as well as a prospect named Alexandre Giroux. Muckler has made possibly the final touch on a roster that should be able to go far in the Stanley Cup playoffs. With DeVries joining Phillips, Redden and Chara on the blue line, the Sens may just have the best Corps of blue liners in the league. With the logjam on the blue line now, the Sens moved Shane Hnidy off to Nashville for a draft pick. Hnidy was a popular player in the Sens dressing room and always answered the bell when summoned on the ice, but the chance to add a veteran like DeVries outweighed Hnidy's purpose.
For the players it's another sign that the Senators will be pushing hard to finish off some business this year. Muckler has taken advantage of the extra cash provided by new owner Eugene Melnyk, to bring in some blue chip players, without having to give up the core group that has brought them so close the last few years.
The interesting sub plot of trade deadline in Ottawa was the expression of confidence that Muckler has in Patrick Lalime. Muckler admitted that Lalime has struggled this year, but says he also remembers the Lalime that stood on his head in past playoff games. Rumours had been flying that the Sens were heavily involved in discussions to move Olaf Kolzig to Ottawa, but apparently those talks did not turn into anything, if they ever actually took place.
By not bringing in a goaltender, Muckler is giving Lalime the chance to lead his team into the Stanley Cup. By adding the likes of DeVries and Bondra late in the season all the pieces are in place for Ottawa, If Lalime responds to the challenge, then this team is going to be playing hockey well into June.
For the players it's another sign that the Senators will be pushing hard to finish off some business this year. Muckler has taken advantage of the extra cash provided by new owner Eugene Melnyk, to bring in some blue chip players, without having to give up the core group that has brought them so close the last few years.
The interesting sub plot of trade deadline in Ottawa was the expression of confidence that Muckler has in Patrick Lalime. Muckler admitted that Lalime has struggled this year, but says he also remembers the Lalime that stood on his head in past playoff games. Rumours had been flying that the Sens were heavily involved in discussions to move Olaf Kolzig to Ottawa, but apparently those talks did not turn into anything, if they ever actually took place.
By not bringing in a goaltender, Muckler is giving Lalime the chance to lead his team into the Stanley Cup. By adding the likes of DeVries and Bondra late in the season all the pieces are in place for Ottawa, If Lalime responds to the challenge, then this team is going to be playing hockey well into June.
Greybeards get greyer
Never mind next year's salary cap, the question in Toronto, is how many guys will qualify for the Canada Pension Plan in the next couple of years. A "seasoned" team got a bit more seasoning today as the Leafs, announcing that Ron Fracis has signed up and is ready to help the Leafs in their quest for Lord Stanley's Mug.
Waiving his right to refuse a trade with Carolina, Francis will add yet more depth to the Maple Leaf centre ice spot. The Leafs adding the veteran for a mere fourth round draft pick in 2005, yet another impressive move by Leafs GM John Feguson. Who won the hearts of Leaf fans last week with his acquisition of Brian Leetch, now with Francis in the fold the message is quite clear, "this is going to be the Year", or at least it will be if all goes according to plan.
Earlier in the day, Ferguson surprised Leaf fan's by announcing that Callie Johannson would be returning to the team for the run for the Cup. Johannson had left North America prior to the start of the regular season, supposedly retiring from professional hockey. However, saying that he is coming back purely for a chance to win the Cup, he'll be back on the Blue line shortly even if he's only played rec league hockey all year. Leafs management claiming he keeps himself in excellent shape and should be game ready in two weeks or less. A welcome development from the sound of the Leaf's dressing room, as many Leaf's claiming Johannson will be a great addition to the Leaf's blueline. Perhaps this is the strategy to help out Eddie Belfour's back problems, have a solid enough defence on the ice that there are no shots to deal with at all.
In a lesser proflie move, the Leafs also added Chad Kilger to the lineup, picking him up off of the waiver wire from Montreal. He won't be listed in the same category as the Leetch, Francis and Johannson add ons but for him it must be like winning the lottery, going from no ice time to a role player position on a possible Stanley Cup contender.
Three weeks ago the Leaf fan base were stumbling all over themselves worrying about the fate of their beloved Leafs. Beflour's wonky back giving them the night sweats. Slowly Ferguson has eased them back into the fold, the moves of the last two weeks have many Leaf fans planning parade routes for late June. But then, Leaf fan's are always making plans, never quite having to take the TTC to the route on parade day.
As ever the question will be goaltending, the Leafs chose not to upgrade the back up spot, so it's Eddie all the way. Should he stumble, or tumble then all may be lost. It might be considereda vote of confidence in Trevor Kidd. But with Tommy Salo accepting fate as a back up in Colorado, one wonders if he may not have been a solid addition for the playoffs in Toronto. The other factor may be weariness, with the amount of near old timers on this squad, lengthy drawn out playoff battles may not work in their favour. The key for the Leafs will be quick wins in each series, giving their players a chance to rest up.
It's said the players added are not only impact names but players that are good in the dressing room . A nice gesture but all the locker room speeches in the world won't put pucks in the net. With the likes of Greg De Vries and Martin Rucinsky, amongst others signing elsewhere, impact players as opposed to names, are strengthening the other contenders. It's a gamble for the Leafs, they're hoping their line up has enough gas in the tank to finish the trip. It remains to be seen if they run out before they get to the final exit.
Waiving his right to refuse a trade with Carolina, Francis will add yet more depth to the Maple Leaf centre ice spot. The Leafs adding the veteran for a mere fourth round draft pick in 2005, yet another impressive move by Leafs GM John Feguson. Who won the hearts of Leaf fans last week with his acquisition of Brian Leetch, now with Francis in the fold the message is quite clear, "this is going to be the Year", or at least it will be if all goes according to plan.
Earlier in the day, Ferguson surprised Leaf fan's by announcing that Callie Johannson would be returning to the team for the run for the Cup. Johannson had left North America prior to the start of the regular season, supposedly retiring from professional hockey. However, saying that he is coming back purely for a chance to win the Cup, he'll be back on the Blue line shortly even if he's only played rec league hockey all year. Leafs management claiming he keeps himself in excellent shape and should be game ready in two weeks or less. A welcome development from the sound of the Leaf's dressing room, as many Leaf's claiming Johannson will be a great addition to the Leaf's blueline. Perhaps this is the strategy to help out Eddie Belfour's back problems, have a solid enough defence on the ice that there are no shots to deal with at all.
In a lesser proflie move, the Leafs also added Chad Kilger to the lineup, picking him up off of the waiver wire from Montreal. He won't be listed in the same category as the Leetch, Francis and Johannson add ons but for him it must be like winning the lottery, going from no ice time to a role player position on a possible Stanley Cup contender.
Three weeks ago the Leaf fan base were stumbling all over themselves worrying about the fate of their beloved Leafs. Beflour's wonky back giving them the night sweats. Slowly Ferguson has eased them back into the fold, the moves of the last two weeks have many Leaf fans planning parade routes for late June. But then, Leaf fan's are always making plans, never quite having to take the TTC to the route on parade day.
As ever the question will be goaltending, the Leafs chose not to upgrade the back up spot, so it's Eddie all the way. Should he stumble, or tumble then all may be lost. It might be considereda vote of confidence in Trevor Kidd. But with Tommy Salo accepting fate as a back up in Colorado, one wonders if he may not have been a solid addition for the playoffs in Toronto. The other factor may be weariness, with the amount of near old timers on this squad, lengthy drawn out playoff battles may not work in their favour. The key for the Leafs will be quick wins in each series, giving their players a chance to rest up.
It's said the players added are not only impact names but players that are good in the dressing room . A nice gesture but all the locker room speeches in the world won't put pucks in the net. With the likes of Greg De Vries and Martin Rucinsky, amongst others signing elsewhere, impact players as opposed to names, are strengthening the other contenders. It's a gamble for the Leafs, they're hoping their line up has enough gas in the tank to finish the trip. It remains to be seen if they run out before they get to the final exit.
Monday, March 08, 2004
Deadline looms!
Well it's kind of hard to try and focus back on hockey after the mess at GM place Monday night, but Deadline day is always a hotly debated day for the NHL. So we'll give it our shot.
Calgary seems to be making some serious moves to bolster their lineup as they strive to make the playoffs for the first time in eight years. Adding Chris Simon will bolster their squad, adding some toughness in a division that seems on the brink of some kind of mob war. Simon who had a pretty impressive debut with the Flames will apparently be used as a shotgun rider for Flames star Jarome Iginla, a brilliant move by the Flames. Simon's size and toughness should finally free up some room for Iginla to get some points in the playoffs. Earlier today the Flames added winger Marcus Nillson to their roster, the former Florida Panther now yet another important piece of the Flames puzzle.
The Panthers continued on with their moves by sending Valeri Bure to the Dallas Stars, adding some scoring to the Stars lineup as they prepare for the playoffs.
Bobby Clarke continued to tinker with his lineup, taking time out from whining about goons from Ottawa, to bring Vladamir Malakhov into the fold, Shoring up his defence and giving Sean Burke one more body to lean on should things get hectic in front of the Flyer net.
Yapping Matthew Barnaby will take his vocabulary and that chip on his shoulder to Colorado joining the Avalanche (God help us should the Avs and Canucks meet in the playoffs!), the Avs seemingly answering the Flames move of picking Simon up Saturday.
Anson Carter packs up the U haul again, this time he's off to Los Angeles to shore up the scoring for the Kings, who have suffered far too many injuries this season to remain a contender, yet they plan on giving it a shot.
Still out there apparently are some gems. Is Chris Pronger on the block? Some say yes, some say no. Reports have it that Pronger would like to go to a contender, possibly Ottawa, though his salary should scare off even the Sens, despite their sudden willingness to spend money.
Martin Rucinscky is also on the block, San Jose or Vancouver a possibility for him, though what Vancouver does after tonight is up for question. The Capitals who must be down to offering up pucks and Zambonis are still floating Olaf Kolzig and Brendan Witt's names, both may end up in Ottawa, Witt's name not a surprise but Kolzig to Ottawa is a new development.
Mark Messier's name makes the rounds, incredibly one rumour linking him to Vancouver again, don't expect that to happen. In fact, Messier says if he were dealt at all to any team , he probably wouldn't report.
As the deadline ticks closer and closer, the rumours get hotter and hotter. Will Philadelphia, Toronto Ottawa, Detroit, Dallas and Colorado continue to load up, do any of them still have room? The answers arrive shortly, it all begins at 9 am eastern, 6 am on the West Coast. By noon hour Pacific, the landscape of the contenders for the Stanley Cup could be significantly different. This is a deadline like no other, teams seem to be willing to pony up the cash for a chance at the Stanley Cup. With the ever increasing impression that there will be no hockey at all next year, many teams are looking at this season as the one where a Stanley Cup challenge has to happen. Television lives for Trading day, Sportsnet, TSN, the Score all have Deadline day shows planned, the sports radio stations will cover the events completely, no rumour will go unheard. Six hours on Tuesday, they could dictate which teams are contenders or pretenders.
Calgary seems to be making some serious moves to bolster their lineup as they strive to make the playoffs for the first time in eight years. Adding Chris Simon will bolster their squad, adding some toughness in a division that seems on the brink of some kind of mob war. Simon who had a pretty impressive debut with the Flames will apparently be used as a shotgun rider for Flames star Jarome Iginla, a brilliant move by the Flames. Simon's size and toughness should finally free up some room for Iginla to get some points in the playoffs. Earlier today the Flames added winger Marcus Nillson to their roster, the former Florida Panther now yet another important piece of the Flames puzzle.
The Panthers continued on with their moves by sending Valeri Bure to the Dallas Stars, adding some scoring to the Stars lineup as they prepare for the playoffs.
Bobby Clarke continued to tinker with his lineup, taking time out from whining about goons from Ottawa, to bring Vladamir Malakhov into the fold, Shoring up his defence and giving Sean Burke one more body to lean on should things get hectic in front of the Flyer net.
Yapping Matthew Barnaby will take his vocabulary and that chip on his shoulder to Colorado joining the Avalanche (God help us should the Avs and Canucks meet in the playoffs!), the Avs seemingly answering the Flames move of picking Simon up Saturday.
Anson Carter packs up the U haul again, this time he's off to Los Angeles to shore up the scoring for the Kings, who have suffered far too many injuries this season to remain a contender, yet they plan on giving it a shot.
Still out there apparently are some gems. Is Chris Pronger on the block? Some say yes, some say no. Reports have it that Pronger would like to go to a contender, possibly Ottawa, though his salary should scare off even the Sens, despite their sudden willingness to spend money.
Martin Rucinscky is also on the block, San Jose or Vancouver a possibility for him, though what Vancouver does after tonight is up for question. The Capitals who must be down to offering up pucks and Zambonis are still floating Olaf Kolzig and Brendan Witt's names, both may end up in Ottawa, Witt's name not a surprise but Kolzig to Ottawa is a new development.
Mark Messier's name makes the rounds, incredibly one rumour linking him to Vancouver again, don't expect that to happen. In fact, Messier says if he were dealt at all to any team , he probably wouldn't report.
As the deadline ticks closer and closer, the rumours get hotter and hotter. Will Philadelphia, Toronto Ottawa, Detroit, Dallas and Colorado continue to load up, do any of them still have room? The answers arrive shortly, it all begins at 9 am eastern, 6 am on the West Coast. By noon hour Pacific, the landscape of the contenders for the Stanley Cup could be significantly different. This is a deadline like no other, teams seem to be willing to pony up the cash for a chance at the Stanley Cup. With the ever increasing impression that there will be no hockey at all next year, many teams are looking at this season as the one where a Stanley Cup challenge has to happen. Television lives for Trading day, Sportsnet, TSN, the Score all have Deadline day shows planned, the sports radio stations will cover the events completely, no rumour will go unheard. Six hours on Tuesday, they could dictate which teams are contenders or pretenders.
UGLY and STUPID Display at GM Place
Only one word can describe the events at GM Place this Monday night, UGLY. The game was UGLY, the score was UGLY, the goaltending by the Canucks was UGLY, the play of the Canucks was UGLY, the fights were UGLY, the crowd turned UGLY, worst of all the Bertuzzi incident was UGLY. ln the end the sport of Hockey looked UGLY.
As game time arrived the atmosphere in GM place was electric with anticipation. Two teams vying for first place in their division, two teams that don't particularly like each other, but with the importance of the night one would expect things to be businesslike. One would be wrong. Vancouver were outplayed, outhit and outscored in the first period, the Avalanche scoring four goals in rapid succession on a completely lost Dan Cloutier, chased from the game after ten shots and goal number four. From there things took a mild turn for the worse, Steve Moore, the player who knocked Marcus Naslund out of the lineup in February, scored a goal, an event not well received by the GM Place crowd. He was also involved in a fight with Matt Cooke, which should have settled the revenge factor. The period featured a few more scraps mostly between Brad May and Peter Worrell, which would be expected in a tense situation such as this. Mercifully for the Canucks the period came to an end, giving the Canucks a chance to reflect on their first period collapse.
The second period gave the Canucks a bit of a reprieve, they began to show signs of life, playing with more intensity, getting back to their hits, getting a few goals. In fact, in a night of total disaster for the Canucks, Trevor Linden broke his scoring drought, getting two assists and moving into the Canucks record books as the top scorer in the Canucks' history. Linden looked quite uncomfortable at centre ice as the crowd rose to their feet. Perhaps realizing that tonight would not be a night for any celebrating. The Canucks started to make their fans believers for a brief period in the second, but STUPID penalties nipped any thoughts of a comeback in the bud. The Canucks for some inexplicable reason began to take runs at Colorado goaltender David Aebeschier, perhaps thinking they could intimidate him and get a few more quick goals. If that was a plan it was a Stupid one, they spent far too much time in the penalty box, giving Joe Sakic, Milan Hejduk and Paul Kariya a chance to pad their stats. Which they did with a vengeance. Period two ended with the Avalanche in the lead by a score of 6-2. Despite their best efforts to get back into the game, stupid plays ended up putting the Canucks completely off their game.
Third period would prove to be the ugliest part of a very ugly night. More of the legal hard hitting mixed up with cheap shots and more stupid penalties. The game winding down, a score of 8-2 and it seems that revenge became the main focus of the rest of the game. Revenge for the embarrassment of their play and revenge for the hit on Naslund in February. Boiling over into the UGLIEST incident we've seen in hockey in a long, long time. Roughly ten minutes to go, Todd Bertuzzi who many perceive to be a team leader showed considerably less leadership, than goonery. Chasing Steve Moore at centre ice, Bertuzzi grabbed Moore, sucker punched him in the face, drove his head into the ice and then landed with his full weight on the guys head. Moore laid on the ice bleeding for ten minutes, as team trainers, doctors and paramedics worked on the prone body lying on the ice. Moore was taken off the ice on a stretcher and transported to a Vancouver hospital. Bertuzzi was issued a match penalty, but judging by the ferocity of the attack a suspension is no doubt forthcoming. Especially given the statements by the Canucks of bounties, revenge and such, shortly after the Naslund incident. With Moore in hospital, the whole incident now appears to be a pre-meditated affair of frontier justice, the League will have no choice to make an example of Bertuzzi and the Canucks and justifiably so. One wonders if the British Columbia Legal system will not also take an interest in the events at GM Place!
Bertuzzi's stupid move, may very well cost him his season and his team's chance for a Stanley Cup. That is not leadership, repercussions from his blatant attempt to injure will be felt for the Canucks in more ways than the NHL discipline committee. The Canucks will now have to figure out how to replace the player many feel is their second most important asset. Trading day deadline is tomorrow at noon, and now Brian Burke has to fill in the biggest hole he has. This simple, stupid act of retribution may be the beginning of the end of the Canuck's as they exist today. A team that had much promise at the start of the season, now shows signs of a total meltdown. Brian Burke has yet to sign a contract, he lobbied for Bertuzzi's huge raise this year, now his protege may have cost the Canucks a chance to go through the playoffs. The Canuck's ownership can only sit back and wonder what the hell is happening to their team these days.
The rest of the game tried to play itself out, eventually Peter Worrell would get into a few more scraps and then finally expelled from the ice, trying to get at the Vancouver bench at one time then trying to get into things with the crowd. Yapping from the coaches, yapping from the players, the refs desperately trying to keep a lid on the final eight minutes of the game. The game came to a conclusion without further bloodshed, a 9-2 Avalanche victory all but forgettable, but the taint of Bertuzzi's move will long hover through GM Place.
It was an UGLY and STUPID night, something you never really want to see. For the Canucks it pretty well defines the season, a team of promise which had the city and province in the palm of it's hands, now has far too many questions that they can't answer. Trading day may not matter now, this team has unraveled, adding a player or two now may not make a bit of difference. The way this game spiraled out of control for the Canucks, may be the final word on their season. The violence exacted on Steve Moore in the name of "some code", does nothing for the reputation of Todd Bertuzzi, even worse it leaves any hockey fan wondering what is happening to their sport!
As game time arrived the atmosphere in GM place was electric with anticipation. Two teams vying for first place in their division, two teams that don't particularly like each other, but with the importance of the night one would expect things to be businesslike. One would be wrong. Vancouver were outplayed, outhit and outscored in the first period, the Avalanche scoring four goals in rapid succession on a completely lost Dan Cloutier, chased from the game after ten shots and goal number four. From there things took a mild turn for the worse, Steve Moore, the player who knocked Marcus Naslund out of the lineup in February, scored a goal, an event not well received by the GM Place crowd. He was also involved in a fight with Matt Cooke, which should have settled the revenge factor. The period featured a few more scraps mostly between Brad May and Peter Worrell, which would be expected in a tense situation such as this. Mercifully for the Canucks the period came to an end, giving the Canucks a chance to reflect on their first period collapse.
The second period gave the Canucks a bit of a reprieve, they began to show signs of life, playing with more intensity, getting back to their hits, getting a few goals. In fact, in a night of total disaster for the Canucks, Trevor Linden broke his scoring drought, getting two assists and moving into the Canucks record books as the top scorer in the Canucks' history. Linden looked quite uncomfortable at centre ice as the crowd rose to their feet. Perhaps realizing that tonight would not be a night for any celebrating. The Canucks started to make their fans believers for a brief period in the second, but STUPID penalties nipped any thoughts of a comeback in the bud. The Canucks for some inexplicable reason began to take runs at Colorado goaltender David Aebeschier, perhaps thinking they could intimidate him and get a few more quick goals. If that was a plan it was a Stupid one, they spent far too much time in the penalty box, giving Joe Sakic, Milan Hejduk and Paul Kariya a chance to pad their stats. Which they did with a vengeance. Period two ended with the Avalanche in the lead by a score of 6-2. Despite their best efforts to get back into the game, stupid plays ended up putting the Canucks completely off their game.
Third period would prove to be the ugliest part of a very ugly night. More of the legal hard hitting mixed up with cheap shots and more stupid penalties. The game winding down, a score of 8-2 and it seems that revenge became the main focus of the rest of the game. Revenge for the embarrassment of their play and revenge for the hit on Naslund in February. Boiling over into the UGLIEST incident we've seen in hockey in a long, long time. Roughly ten minutes to go, Todd Bertuzzi who many perceive to be a team leader showed considerably less leadership, than goonery. Chasing Steve Moore at centre ice, Bertuzzi grabbed Moore, sucker punched him in the face, drove his head into the ice and then landed with his full weight on the guys head. Moore laid on the ice bleeding for ten minutes, as team trainers, doctors and paramedics worked on the prone body lying on the ice. Moore was taken off the ice on a stretcher and transported to a Vancouver hospital. Bertuzzi was issued a match penalty, but judging by the ferocity of the attack a suspension is no doubt forthcoming. Especially given the statements by the Canucks of bounties, revenge and such, shortly after the Naslund incident. With Moore in hospital, the whole incident now appears to be a pre-meditated affair of frontier justice, the League will have no choice to make an example of Bertuzzi and the Canucks and justifiably so. One wonders if the British Columbia Legal system will not also take an interest in the events at GM Place!
Bertuzzi's stupid move, may very well cost him his season and his team's chance for a Stanley Cup. That is not leadership, repercussions from his blatant attempt to injure will be felt for the Canucks in more ways than the NHL discipline committee. The Canucks will now have to figure out how to replace the player many feel is their second most important asset. Trading day deadline is tomorrow at noon, and now Brian Burke has to fill in the biggest hole he has. This simple, stupid act of retribution may be the beginning of the end of the Canuck's as they exist today. A team that had much promise at the start of the season, now shows signs of a total meltdown. Brian Burke has yet to sign a contract, he lobbied for Bertuzzi's huge raise this year, now his protege may have cost the Canucks a chance to go through the playoffs. The Canuck's ownership can only sit back and wonder what the hell is happening to their team these days.
The rest of the game tried to play itself out, eventually Peter Worrell would get into a few more scraps and then finally expelled from the ice, trying to get at the Vancouver bench at one time then trying to get into things with the crowd. Yapping from the coaches, yapping from the players, the refs desperately trying to keep a lid on the final eight minutes of the game. The game came to a conclusion without further bloodshed, a 9-2 Avalanche victory all but forgettable, but the taint of Bertuzzi's move will long hover through GM Place.
It was an UGLY and STUPID night, something you never really want to see. For the Canucks it pretty well defines the season, a team of promise which had the city and province in the palm of it's hands, now has far too many questions that they can't answer. Trading day may not matter now, this team has unraveled, adding a player or two now may not make a bit of difference. The way this game spiraled out of control for the Canucks, may be the final word on their season. The violence exacted on Steve Moore in the name of "some code", does nothing for the reputation of Todd Bertuzzi, even worse it leaves any hockey fan wondering what is happening to their sport!
Sunday, March 07, 2004
Canucks should be smelling blood tonight!
No I'm not referring to potential fisticuffs between Steve Moore and whichever Canuck can reach him first, though that too may pass. But, a damaged, shell shocked, less than confident Colorado Avalanche team is dropping into GM Place, for what could be THE pivotal game for the Canucks this season. With the Avs stumbling their way to a loss against Calgary on Sunday afternoon, they are ripe for a pounding in the friendly confines of GM Place. Colorado arrives in Vancouver for the final regular season game between the two teams of the year, and there are quite a few issues left to settle. Only one point separates the Avs and the Canucks now, something that seemed unattainable three weeks ago, is suddenly within the grasp of Vancouver, first place in their Division, and to be able to take it from the Avs should be more than enough incentive for a big game.
The history between these two teams the last couple of months has not been one of friendly competition. Well documented over the last few weeks has been the hit by Moore on Canuck's captain Marcus Naslund, which the Cancuks' vowed would be avenged, something that did not happen in the subsequent re-match. This will be the second game between the two since the hit that knocked Naslund out of the line up for ten days. Should the Canucks be able to get a large enough lead, or fall behind by a sizeable margin, it may be that judgment day will arrive for Moore. Careful to not give the league office any cause for censure, this match up has not had the same play as the first game after the hit. Flying low under the radar both teams are playing down their past outbursts.
It will be interesting to see which players on both teams get sat out for Monday's game. If Colorado sits Moore out, or the Canucks leave Brookbank or May up in the press box for the night, then it would be safe to assume not much will come of things. Should all the main suspects dress, then possibly a late night is in store for the GM Place workforce.
At the end of the night it's the two points and the message that can be sent that should dictate how the night goes. The Canucks have a perfect chance to reclaim first place in the division and keep the scent of Detroit for first overall in the conference. With the Avs in apparent disarray at the moment, there should be no better time to fill the net, set the pace and let the Avs know that the road to the Cup runs through GM Place.
Vancouver fans have had this game circled on their calendars since that mid February night, expect a loud, raucous night at GM Place. Probably the biggest game of the year so far, it should be everything the fans expect and more.
The history between these two teams the last couple of months has not been one of friendly competition. Well documented over the last few weeks has been the hit by Moore on Canuck's captain Marcus Naslund, which the Cancuks' vowed would be avenged, something that did not happen in the subsequent re-match. This will be the second game between the two since the hit that knocked Naslund out of the line up for ten days. Should the Canucks be able to get a large enough lead, or fall behind by a sizeable margin, it may be that judgment day will arrive for Moore. Careful to not give the league office any cause for censure, this match up has not had the same play as the first game after the hit. Flying low under the radar both teams are playing down their past outbursts.
It will be interesting to see which players on both teams get sat out for Monday's game. If Colorado sits Moore out, or the Canucks leave Brookbank or May up in the press box for the night, then it would be safe to assume not much will come of things. Should all the main suspects dress, then possibly a late night is in store for the GM Place workforce.
At the end of the night it's the two points and the message that can be sent that should dictate how the night goes. The Canucks have a perfect chance to reclaim first place in the division and keep the scent of Detroit for first overall in the conference. With the Avs in apparent disarray at the moment, there should be no better time to fill the net, set the pace and let the Avs know that the road to the Cup runs through GM Place.
Vancouver fans have had this game circled on their calendars since that mid February night, expect a loud, raucous night at GM Place. Probably the biggest game of the year so far, it should be everything the fans expect and more.
Bobby Clarke is an unhappy guy, boo hoo!
Bobby Clarke is making noise again, railing on about those gooning thugs from Ottawa. Last seen Clarke was trying to get into the Sens dressing room Friday night, so as to discuss the lack of civility of the game with Sens coach Jacques Martin.
Particularly upsetting for Clarke was the sending of goons out to face the Flyers poor, weak, scared and non fighting Europeans. Claiming that Martin is a "gutless puke" who particularly targeted European players on the Flyers squad for punishment on Friday night.
Not disguising his threats Clarke said that Ottawa's European players such as Alfreddson, Bondra, Havlat et al would feel the wrath of Flyer justice, in the final regular season match up in Philly on April 2nd. As Clarke put it, he (Martin) won't be able to hide them that night.
Words that I'm sure will perk up the ears of Colin Campbell and Gary Bettman, who recently had to contend with the unbridled hatred of the Avs and Canucks. For that game Bettman himself went to Denver to watch the game, purely a coincidence we are expected to believe. One assumes another coincidence will take place April 2nd, in Philadelphia.
As for Clarke, it's delightful irony his newfound belief in pacifistic leanings. The two most well documented moments of Clarke's career in hockey revolve around rather brutal incidents with Russian players. The much discussed slash of Valeri Kharlamov's leg in the 1972 Canada/Russia series, and of course the infamous Soviet Red Army tour of NHL cities in 1976. When the Broad Street Bullies, led by Captain Clarke, intimidated the Russians right off the ice, becoming the only NHL team to beat the Soviets on that tour. We can still hear Bob Cole saying; "they're going home folks, the Russians are going home". They of course came back, because they wanted to get paid, but they did leave the ice in protest against goonery.
In fact, Friday night's fights brought back some special memories for Flyer defenceman Alexei Zhamnov, who's father was a member of the Soviet team that walked off the ice on that famous night. Clarke's history with the Flyers has been intertwined with physical, brutal and at times violent incidents, since the very beginning. His outburst is more a laughable sideshow, than indicative of a change of attitude.
Please Bobby, really, he who has not sinned, shall cast the first stone. Time to put down your rocks Mr. Clarke.
Particularly upsetting for Clarke was the sending of goons out to face the Flyers poor, weak, scared and non fighting Europeans. Claiming that Martin is a "gutless puke" who particularly targeted European players on the Flyers squad for punishment on Friday night.
Not disguising his threats Clarke said that Ottawa's European players such as Alfreddson, Bondra, Havlat et al would feel the wrath of Flyer justice, in the final regular season match up in Philly on April 2nd. As Clarke put it, he (Martin) won't be able to hide them that night.
Words that I'm sure will perk up the ears of Colin Campbell and Gary Bettman, who recently had to contend with the unbridled hatred of the Avs and Canucks. For that game Bettman himself went to Denver to watch the game, purely a coincidence we are expected to believe. One assumes another coincidence will take place April 2nd, in Philadelphia.
As for Clarke, it's delightful irony his newfound belief in pacifistic leanings. The two most well documented moments of Clarke's career in hockey revolve around rather brutal incidents with Russian players. The much discussed slash of Valeri Kharlamov's leg in the 1972 Canada/Russia series, and of course the infamous Soviet Red Army tour of NHL cities in 1976. When the Broad Street Bullies, led by Captain Clarke, intimidated the Russians right off the ice, becoming the only NHL team to beat the Soviets on that tour. We can still hear Bob Cole saying; "they're going home folks, the Russians are going home". They of course came back, because they wanted to get paid, but they did leave the ice in protest against goonery.
In fact, Friday night's fights brought back some special memories for Flyer defenceman Alexei Zhamnov, who's father was a member of the Soviet team that walked off the ice on that famous night. Clarke's history with the Flyers has been intertwined with physical, brutal and at times violent incidents, since the very beginning. His outburst is more a laughable sideshow, than indicative of a change of attitude.
Please Bobby, really, he who has not sinned, shall cast the first stone. Time to put down your rocks Mr. Clarke.
Calling Olaf, is anybody home?
The worst loss on home ice since the Avalanche were the Nordiques, was Sunday afternoon the final wake up call for Pierre Lacroix?. A 7-1 shellacking that shows a team rather unprepared for the playoffs, one with some pretty troubling questions. Goaltending, defense, goal scoring, coaching, team chemistry all of them areas of concern for Avs fans. This is not be the Avalanche team we've become used to the last number of years.
Pierre Lacroix should make sure his phone is charged and ready to go on Tuesday. His team needs help, hard as it is to believe. When Paul Kariya and Teemu Selanne joined the Avs in the off season, many ceded them the Western division title, making them the favorite to win the Stanley Cup this year. But with sporadic success on the ice of late, and losing to teams many feel they should beat easily, the Avs don't appear to be clicking very well. Indeed the addition of Kariya and Selanne has had the opposite effect, neither player has played anywhere near their potential, making their line quite ineffective of late. When split up they end up making two lines non productive, not what Av fans expected back in the summer.
Sunday night will be sending alarm bells not only throughout Denver, but through the Avalanche office. They were outscored, outplayed, outhit and outcoached by a Flames team that is in a life and death struggle to stay above the cut off line. Perhaps they just wanted the game more last night, but so impressive were they, you would have thought it was the Flames that were only a few points behind first place Detroit not the Avs.
With a line up most teams would want at the end of a trading deadline, the Avs are in the strange position of having to add on, when they really shouldn't have to do anything. Goaltending all of a sudden has become an issue, back up Phillipe Sauve was tagged for the 7 goals Sunday, probably wondering why his defencemen chose not to come back and help. Also on the hot seat is David Aebischer, who has been constantly hearing that he's not up to the task at hand, perhaps all that negativity has finally caught up with him. The normally solid Av goaltender, has been making Av games more of an adventure than most fans are used to. The Avs have lost six of their last eight games, finding things particularly difficult on home ice. Losing as frequently and as badly as they have of late and at home, is making things rather warm at the Pepsi centre and in the Denver media.
Lacroix has to ask himself a very important question, and he needs to have an answer by Tuesday morning. Is Aebischer's play of late indicative of a problem area, or just a bad patch that has to be played through? What he decides by Tuesday will make all the difference in the Avs season, their playoff hopes and whether he needs to make a number of drastic changes by 12 noon Pacific time. His team is still at the top of the standings, so he may choose to let the Avs sort it out among themselves, but it would seem some sort of wake up call is needed for these guys. Player changes or a coaching change all have been rumoured in the last six weeks, Lacroix will be thinking hard about what is in the teams best interest.
Olaf Kolzig's agent had best be standing by Tuesday, Trader Pierre may be on the phone bright and early helping to lighten Ted Leonsis' payroll load just a little bit more. The February slump, that now moves into March dictates that a change will be made, never afraid to make a deadline trade in the past, Lacroix will most likely steal the show again.
Pierre Lacroix should make sure his phone is charged and ready to go on Tuesday. His team needs help, hard as it is to believe. When Paul Kariya and Teemu Selanne joined the Avs in the off season, many ceded them the Western division title, making them the favorite to win the Stanley Cup this year. But with sporadic success on the ice of late, and losing to teams many feel they should beat easily, the Avs don't appear to be clicking very well. Indeed the addition of Kariya and Selanne has had the opposite effect, neither player has played anywhere near their potential, making their line quite ineffective of late. When split up they end up making two lines non productive, not what Av fans expected back in the summer.
Sunday night will be sending alarm bells not only throughout Denver, but through the Avalanche office. They were outscored, outplayed, outhit and outcoached by a Flames team that is in a life and death struggle to stay above the cut off line. Perhaps they just wanted the game more last night, but so impressive were they, you would have thought it was the Flames that were only a few points behind first place Detroit not the Avs.
With a line up most teams would want at the end of a trading deadline, the Avs are in the strange position of having to add on, when they really shouldn't have to do anything. Goaltending all of a sudden has become an issue, back up Phillipe Sauve was tagged for the 7 goals Sunday, probably wondering why his defencemen chose not to come back and help. Also on the hot seat is David Aebischer, who has been constantly hearing that he's not up to the task at hand, perhaps all that negativity has finally caught up with him. The normally solid Av goaltender, has been making Av games more of an adventure than most fans are used to. The Avs have lost six of their last eight games, finding things particularly difficult on home ice. Losing as frequently and as badly as they have of late and at home, is making things rather warm at the Pepsi centre and in the Denver media.
Lacroix has to ask himself a very important question, and he needs to have an answer by Tuesday morning. Is Aebischer's play of late indicative of a problem area, or just a bad patch that has to be played through? What he decides by Tuesday will make all the difference in the Avs season, their playoff hopes and whether he needs to make a number of drastic changes by 12 noon Pacific time. His team is still at the top of the standings, so he may choose to let the Avs sort it out among themselves, but it would seem some sort of wake up call is needed for these guys. Player changes or a coaching change all have been rumoured in the last six weeks, Lacroix will be thinking hard about what is in the teams best interest.
Olaf Kolzig's agent had best be standing by Tuesday, Trader Pierre may be on the phone bright and early helping to lighten Ted Leonsis' payroll load just a little bit more. The February slump, that now moves into March dictates that a change will be made, never afraid to make a deadline trade in the past, Lacroix will most likely steal the show again.
Saturday, March 06, 2004
Big Win, For Big D
It's one of those games the Calgary Flames will wish they had won by the end of the season. The Flames went into Dallas Friday night, hoping to pick up some ground on the Stars in the Western Conference. But by the end of the night, they would be trailing the Stars by five points.
Marty Turco got off to a shaky start for Dallas, letting in a goal early on in the game, but after that first goal got in, the door was closed for the rest of the night. Turco leading Dallas to a 5-1 victory over the Flames, and pulling them to within four points of Division leading San Jose. The Stars have an all important match up with the Sharks on Sunday evening.
Head Coach Darryl Sutter, was disappointed in the play of his team, advising them that it's hard to beat a quality team like Dallas, when you fall behind by two or three goals. A lack of scoring costing the Flames a chance to put some room between them and eighth place in the West and a playoff spot. Calgary presently is one point ahead of Los Angeles and trailing sixth place Nashville by two. Calgary next plays on Sunday night when they head into Colorado, Edmonton and Ottawa then fly into Calgary for two more key games for the Flames. By the end of next week, they'll have a good idea if they'll be able to keep in the race for the playoffs. Expect Sutter to have them playing better hockey the next seven days than what they showed Friday in Dallas.
Marty Turco got off to a shaky start for Dallas, letting in a goal early on in the game, but after that first goal got in, the door was closed for the rest of the night. Turco leading Dallas to a 5-1 victory over the Flames, and pulling them to within four points of Division leading San Jose. The Stars have an all important match up with the Sharks on Sunday evening.
Head Coach Darryl Sutter, was disappointed in the play of his team, advising them that it's hard to beat a quality team like Dallas, when you fall behind by two or three goals. A lack of scoring costing the Flames a chance to put some room between them and eighth place in the West and a playoff spot. Calgary presently is one point ahead of Los Angeles and trailing sixth place Nashville by two. Calgary next plays on Sunday night when they head into Colorado, Edmonton and Ottawa then fly into Calgary for two more key games for the Flames. By the end of next week, they'll have a good idea if they'll be able to keep in the race for the playoffs. Expect Sutter to have them playing better hockey the next seven days than what they showed Friday in Dallas.
Battered Wings top Canucks
It is a worrisome sign for the Vancouver Canucks, the lack of offensive production and the decline of their defensive play. The Canucks should have been able to steal two points in Detroit tonight, the Red Wings suffering more than a few injuries and using Manny Legace in the nets. But it wasn't meant to be. Legace had a spectacular game, holding the Canucks off the score sheet until fifteen minutes of the third period. Legace has become the unsung hero in Detroit, as he has a goals against average of 1.80, filling in for the injured Curtis Joseph.
Nicklas Lidstrom did his bit for the cause, picking up three points in the Red Wings 3-1 win, with one goal and two assists. The Canucks got away fro their traditional game plan of crashing in the opposition end and clogging the front of the net. Not playing with much intensity, or interest for that matter for most of the night. Not one Canuck player really had a stellar game, though Winnipeg Moose call up Sean Pronger played with a bit of zeal, coming close a couple of times to scoring a goal or two.
With the loss, the Canucks can probably forget any plans about winning first place overall in the Western Conference, Detroit seemingly in control of that situation even with injuries. The Canucks can still concentrate on winning their Division in the battle with Colorado, but there was bad news on that front. As the Avalanche finally found the net tonight, with a 5-1 win over the Sharks. The Canucks next play Saturday night in Columbus and then return home for an all important game against the Avalanche at GM place on Monday. If they have plans on taking the division title from the Avs, and improving their playoff prospects, a much better effort will be required both Saturday and Monday nights.
Nicklas Lidstrom did his bit for the cause, picking up three points in the Red Wings 3-1 win, with one goal and two assists. The Canucks got away fro their traditional game plan of crashing in the opposition end and clogging the front of the net. Not playing with much intensity, or interest for that matter for most of the night. Not one Canuck player really had a stellar game, though Winnipeg Moose call up Sean Pronger played with a bit of zeal, coming close a couple of times to scoring a goal or two.
With the loss, the Canucks can probably forget any plans about winning first place overall in the Western Conference, Detroit seemingly in control of that situation even with injuries. The Canucks can still concentrate on winning their Division in the battle with Colorado, but there was bad news on that front. As the Avalanche finally found the net tonight, with a 5-1 win over the Sharks. The Canucks next play Saturday night in Columbus and then return home for an all important game against the Avalanche at GM place on Monday. If they have plans on taking the division title from the Avs, and improving their playoff prospects, a much better effort will be required both Saturday and Monday nights.
Friday Night, Fight Night in Philly!
The score flattered the Sens, 5-3 really a closer result than the actual game provided. The Sens were outplayed on the ice, but as Conn Smythe once said, "they weren't beat in the alleys". A new league record of 419 penalty minutes was set in Philly Friday night. The third period degenerating into a brawl fest, which featured five separate brawls in two minutes, including a slugfest involving the two goaltenders.
Patrick Lalime let out some of his frustrations, by taking his anger management skills out on Robert Esche. And for goaltenders they certainly got into the swing of things, flailing away at each other for about five minutes. Esche proclaiming that "we're not afraid of Ottawa and not intimidated by their talent". Possibly the first time anyone has complimented the Sens, on possibly being an intimidating squad. The game itself was a throwback to the days of the Broad Street Bullies era, and to their credit the Sens did not back down from one scrap. Even Jason Spezza was mixing it up, qualifying as his first ever NHL fight. The festivities got underway when Rob Ray and Donald Brashear bumped up in front of the Flyers net, Brashear got in a couple of sucker punches and everybody was off.
By the time all was said and done, the Flyers had seven players left on the bench, the Sens six. The Flyers claimed two valuable points with the win, but failed to chase the Sens out of the building. The rematch comes up on April 2nd, it will remain to be seen if the bad blood between the two teams continues then. The Flyers animosity towards the Sens, stems from a stick incident between Martin Havlat and Mark Recchi, an incident the Flyers paint as a dirty play and one they vowed revenge for. Havlat escaped last night's dance card unscathed. Though still vilified by the Flyers.
By the end of the night, Flyer coach Ken Hitchcock was whining about the Sens behaviour and GM Bob Clarke was seen trying to get into the Sens dressing room. Clarke was finally shooed away by Flyer personnel, tossing dirty looks at Sens GM John Muckler, led away before he could cause himself any more embarrassment.
Perhaps he wanted to share thoughts with Rob Ray, who declared in a post game interview that the brawls were "Good for Hockey". It will be interesting to see if Colin Campbell shares the same sentiments later Saturday when he reviews his tape collection.
Patrick Lalime let out some of his frustrations, by taking his anger management skills out on Robert Esche. And for goaltenders they certainly got into the swing of things, flailing away at each other for about five minutes. Esche proclaiming that "we're not afraid of Ottawa and not intimidated by their talent". Possibly the first time anyone has complimented the Sens, on possibly being an intimidating squad. The game itself was a throwback to the days of the Broad Street Bullies era, and to their credit the Sens did not back down from one scrap. Even Jason Spezza was mixing it up, qualifying as his first ever NHL fight. The festivities got underway when Rob Ray and Donald Brashear bumped up in front of the Flyers net, Brashear got in a couple of sucker punches and everybody was off.
By the time all was said and done, the Flyers had seven players left on the bench, the Sens six. The Flyers claimed two valuable points with the win, but failed to chase the Sens out of the building. The rematch comes up on April 2nd, it will remain to be seen if the bad blood between the two teams continues then. The Flyers animosity towards the Sens, stems from a stick incident between Martin Havlat and Mark Recchi, an incident the Flyers paint as a dirty play and one they vowed revenge for. Havlat escaped last night's dance card unscathed. Though still vilified by the Flyers.
By the end of the night, Flyer coach Ken Hitchcock was whining about the Sens behaviour and GM Bob Clarke was seen trying to get into the Sens dressing room. Clarke was finally shooed away by Flyer personnel, tossing dirty looks at Sens GM John Muckler, led away before he could cause himself any more embarrassment.
Perhaps he wanted to share thoughts with Rob Ray, who declared in a post game interview that the brawls were "Good for Hockey". It will be interesting to see if Colin Campbell shares the same sentiments later Saturday when he reviews his tape collection.
Thursday, March 04, 2004
Brand new Leetch, same old Rangers!
A tale of two directions, one a positive upbeat story of re-birth and potential. The other, the downward spiral of a signature franchise, playing out the string on yet another horrid season.
Brian Leetch made his debut as a Maple Leaf Thursday night, fitting in as if he had been there since the day he was drafted. He may always bleed Ranger Blue blood, but for now the Maple Leaf Nation are claiming him as a conquering hero. Leetch, quickly endeared himself to his fellow Leaf players and the fans of Toronto, scoring points early on in his first game. Leetch assisted on Mat Sundin's first goal of the Leaf's 6-2 victory over the New York Islanders. In total, Leetch gained three assists in the game, fitting in with Brian McCabe as the first line defensive pairing and giving the Leaf faithful a chance to do a little long term dreaming.
Exhibiting the skill, patience and smarts that have made him an all star through his career, Leetch provided the Leafs with the kind of defensman they haven't had, since Borje Salming hung up his blades oh so many years ago. For Belfour the idea of having Leetch in front of him for the rest of the season and an expected long playoff march, must have made his back feel as though he'd just come from the chiropractor. Tonight all is well with the Maple Leaf Nation.
Not so in New York, the Ranger faithful sitting back and watching the de-construction of a team that never really seemed to fit well together. Nedved and Leetch, just the start of an expected exodus out of the Rotten Apple Core at MSG. Thursday night, the Rangers continued on their losing ways, as Sergei Gonchar rewarded the Bruins for their faith and money by scoring in his first game as a Bruin, the Bears taking the Rangers 3-1. Revenge for Red Sox faithful, sure New York can still buy and play baseball, but in hockey they buy and still Stink, it must be a small bit of comfort for the faithful of Boston.
While the Rangers continue to lose, the media took time to wish Brian Leetch a fond farewell. As Leetch escapes the fate that faces his former team mates, the New York Papers lauded him for his time as a Blue Shirt. The New York Post, took the approach that the trade was a necessity not only for the Rangers but for Leetch, a final chance to get back to the Stanley Cup, a chance he would never get with this Ranger team. The New York Daily News, used it's sports section headline to full effect, "Leetch gone, Sather stays", blared out in black ink. The News bemoaning the fact that the Rangers had just given away the franchise. An editorial taking Sather to task for not launching the rebuilding phase four years ago, with Brian Leetch there to share in the rebirth. You get the feeling these are going to be long, dark nights for Sather until the end of the season. Not so for Leetch, for him, the days are now bright, a promise of an enjoyable spring just around the corner. Two different directions, it may hurt for a bit leaving the Rangers, but the ride he's about to go on should help to dull the pain.
Brian Leetch made his debut as a Maple Leaf Thursday night, fitting in as if he had been there since the day he was drafted. He may always bleed Ranger Blue blood, but for now the Maple Leaf Nation are claiming him as a conquering hero. Leetch, quickly endeared himself to his fellow Leaf players and the fans of Toronto, scoring points early on in his first game. Leetch assisted on Mat Sundin's first goal of the Leaf's 6-2 victory over the New York Islanders. In total, Leetch gained three assists in the game, fitting in with Brian McCabe as the first line defensive pairing and giving the Leaf faithful a chance to do a little long term dreaming.
Exhibiting the skill, patience and smarts that have made him an all star through his career, Leetch provided the Leafs with the kind of defensman they haven't had, since Borje Salming hung up his blades oh so many years ago. For Belfour the idea of having Leetch in front of him for the rest of the season and an expected long playoff march, must have made his back feel as though he'd just come from the chiropractor. Tonight all is well with the Maple Leaf Nation.
Not so in New York, the Ranger faithful sitting back and watching the de-construction of a team that never really seemed to fit well together. Nedved and Leetch, just the start of an expected exodus out of the Rotten Apple Core at MSG. Thursday night, the Rangers continued on their losing ways, as Sergei Gonchar rewarded the Bruins for their faith and money by scoring in his first game as a Bruin, the Bears taking the Rangers 3-1. Revenge for Red Sox faithful, sure New York can still buy and play baseball, but in hockey they buy and still Stink, it must be a small bit of comfort for the faithful of Boston.
While the Rangers continue to lose, the media took time to wish Brian Leetch a fond farewell. As Leetch escapes the fate that faces his former team mates, the New York Papers lauded him for his time as a Blue Shirt. The New York Post, took the approach that the trade was a necessity not only for the Rangers but for Leetch, a final chance to get back to the Stanley Cup, a chance he would never get with this Ranger team. The New York Daily News, used it's sports section headline to full effect, "Leetch gone, Sather stays", blared out in black ink. The News bemoaning the fact that the Rangers had just given away the franchise. An editorial taking Sather to task for not launching the rebuilding phase four years ago, with Brian Leetch there to share in the rebirth. You get the feeling these are going to be long, dark nights for Sather until the end of the season. Not so for Leetch, for him, the days are now bright, a promise of an enjoyable spring just around the corner. Two different directions, it may hurt for a bit leaving the Rangers, but the ride he's about to go on should help to dull the pain.
Oilers refuse to throw in the towel.
Good news for Oiler fans, the Oil will be fighting, scratching and clawing until the final day of the season. Trying to grab that final playoff spot and a chance to dramatically change the season. That appears to be the message that GM Kevin Lowe has given his team, after picking up Peter Nedved from ole pal Glen Sather. Nedved joins the Oil for sixteen games this season and hopefully a playoff run, a situation that won't cost Lowe much financially and as far as player depth goes didn't hurt too bad either.
Renting out Nedved and that's all this is, a rental. Sends a pretty strong message to his core group of Oilers, that Lowe thinks they can make a run for a playoff spot. Picking up a goaltender in Markkanen in the deal, will also give him an option for trading day. If Conklin is healthy enough to carry the load for the rest of the season, Lowe could move Salo before Tuesday adding even more punch to his lineup. Conklin is recovering from a hand injury that isn't healing as fast as hoped, if nothing else Markkanen will be able to spell off Salo in the stretch run.
All of a sudden that six point gap between the Oilers and the Kings doesn't seem all that unreachable. Oiler fans can see eighth place now, it's up to the players to kick it into gear. Renting Nedved gives them a boost, a shot of adrenalin to make the move.
Renting out Nedved and that's all this is, a rental. Sends a pretty strong message to his core group of Oilers, that Lowe thinks they can make a run for a playoff spot. Picking up a goaltender in Markkanen in the deal, will also give him an option for trading day. If Conklin is healthy enough to carry the load for the rest of the season, Lowe could move Salo before Tuesday adding even more punch to his lineup. Conklin is recovering from a hand injury that isn't healing as fast as hoped, if nothing else Markkanen will be able to spell off Salo in the stretch run.
All of a sudden that six point gap between the Oilers and the Kings doesn't seem all that unreachable. Oiler fans can see eighth place now, it's up to the players to kick it into gear. Renting Nedved gives them a boost, a shot of adrenalin to make the move.
Last one left in the dressing room, turn out the lights!
Hard to believe they have anyone left in DC to put on the trading block, but the Caps are at it again. Today sending Michael Nylander off to the Boston Bruins, the second day in a row the Bruins have added to their roster at the expense of Washington . Nylander dons the black and gold of the Bruins, for a second round draft choice in 2006 and that ever popular trading partner, "future considerations."
Nylander moves on to his sixth team since joining the NHL and becomes the sixth Capital sent away after the firesale was declared. Steve Konowalchuk, Peter Bondra, Jaromir Jagr, Robert Land and Sergei Gonchar have all packed their bags and moved on. Still awaiting airline tickets are Olaf Kolzig, Bates Bataglia and Bredan Witt . After that it's time to start boning up on the roster of the Portland Pirates, by next week they could be the "New Washington Capitals", sadly for Caps fans the farm hands aren't any better than the big team. Good Luck Ted! Selling season tickets in Washington, should be a wonderful experience for your front office.
Nylander moves on to his sixth team since joining the NHL and becomes the sixth Capital sent away after the firesale was declared. Steve Konowalchuk, Peter Bondra, Jaromir Jagr, Robert Land and Sergei Gonchar have all packed their bags and moved on. Still awaiting airline tickets are Olaf Kolzig, Bates Bataglia and Bredan Witt . After that it's time to start boning up on the roster of the Portland Pirates, by next week they could be the "New Washington Capitals", sadly for Caps fans the farm hands aren't any better than the big team. Good Luck Ted! Selling season tickets in Washington, should be a wonderful experience for your front office.
From Broadway to Bay street
The Maple Leaf Nation can finally quite griping, GM John Ferguson has finally made a trade deadline pick up. Worried that the likes of Ottawa, Boston, Philly, Montreal and Detroit were picking off all the good talent. Fans of the Leafs were filling up the call in shows and newspaper pages with calls to action. A goaltender, a sniper, a policeman all were called for at one time or another.
Ferguson bided his time letting a Gonchar go by, not nibbling at a Jagr offering, taking a pass as Zhamnov, Lang and Bondra changed uniforms. But when he made his move, it was generally accepted he picked up the best value for his efforts.
Brian Leetch changes from Broadway Blues to Maple Leaf Blue tonight (ironically against his old foes the Islanders) and the fans and players in Toronto are beside themselves. Ferguson picked up the perennial all star defenceman and Norris Trophy winner, for two prospects not even playing in North America, and two draft picks in upcoming drafts, not a bad play for the first year GM. It will add stability to the Leaf blue line and most importantly brings in yet more experience, to what is probably one of the more veteran clubs in the NHL. The only drawback for the Leafs is that they will be without a first round draft pick again, but should they make it to the Stanley Cup Final the fans probably won't be too concerned.
Just another addition in this season of re-armament in the East. Each of the contenders in the conference have made a deal that has not only strengthened their franchise, but potentially is the missing link to make it to the Stanley Cup Final. It certainly sends a message not only to the fans but his own players, that Ferguson believes this is the year for the Leafs to win it all. The shopping spree will continue until Tuesday at Noon pacific time, but there may not be much left on the shelf by that time.
Ferguson bided his time letting a Gonchar go by, not nibbling at a Jagr offering, taking a pass as Zhamnov, Lang and Bondra changed uniforms. But when he made his move, it was generally accepted he picked up the best value for his efforts.
Brian Leetch changes from Broadway Blues to Maple Leaf Blue tonight (ironically against his old foes the Islanders) and the fans and players in Toronto are beside themselves. Ferguson picked up the perennial all star defenceman and Norris Trophy winner, for two prospects not even playing in North America, and two draft picks in upcoming drafts, not a bad play for the first year GM. It will add stability to the Leaf blue line and most importantly brings in yet more experience, to what is probably one of the more veteran clubs in the NHL. The only drawback for the Leafs is that they will be without a first round draft pick again, but should they make it to the Stanley Cup Final the fans probably won't be too concerned.
Just another addition in this season of re-armament in the East. Each of the contenders in the conference have made a deal that has not only strengthened their franchise, but potentially is the missing link to make it to the Stanley Cup Final. It certainly sends a message not only to the fans but his own players, that Ferguson believes this is the year for the Leafs to win it all. The shopping spree will continue until Tuesday at Noon pacific time, but there may not be much left on the shelf by that time.
Wednesday, March 03, 2004
All Hail Eddie!
Well you can't argue with success. The Leafs with Eddie Beflour between the pipes are a vastly improved team, than the one that played without him. For the second night in a row, Eddie played solid in goal and the Leaf's did their part in front of him, defeating Boston 3-2.
Mind you it wasn't much of a workout, Boston only managing 19 shots in the game. But for whatever reason the Leaf's just seem to have much more confidence on the ice, when Belfour is in the Maple Leaf net. Owen Nolan put it best when he said, with Belfour we have a comfort zone, we're not afraid to make mistakes.
Mats Sundin led the way tonight with two goals, his 24th and 25th of the season, as the Leafs climbed onto the four team dogpile for first place in the Eastern Conference.
Maple Leaf fans are in a decidedly better mood these days with Belfour back. Given to riding the back ups lack of success the last three weeks or so, they are chanting the praises of the Eagle these days, nary a boo can be heard at the Air Canada Centre. With Belfour's back seemingly causing him no distress, you can almost see the Maple Leaf fans planning the parade route.
Mind you it wasn't much of a workout, Boston only managing 19 shots in the game. But for whatever reason the Leaf's just seem to have much more confidence on the ice, when Belfour is in the Maple Leaf net. Owen Nolan put it best when he said, with Belfour we have a comfort zone, we're not afraid to make mistakes.
Mats Sundin led the way tonight with two goals, his 24th and 25th of the season, as the Leafs climbed onto the four team dogpile for first place in the Eastern Conference.
Maple Leaf fans are in a decidedly better mood these days with Belfour back. Given to riding the back ups lack of success the last three weeks or so, they are chanting the praises of the Eagle these days, nary a boo can be heard at the Air Canada Centre. With Belfour's back seemingly causing him no distress, you can almost see the Maple Leaf fans planning the parade route.
The rematch
It's been circled on the calendar since February 17th. Yet retribution may be the last thing on the minds of the Canucks tonight, as they head into Denver to face the slumping Avalanche.
The last time the two squads faced off, Captain Markus Naslund was left bleeding on the Pepsi Centre ice, the victim of a hit from Steve Moore. A hit that to this day continues to raise the blood pressure of Canuck player and fan alike. Seen by many as a dirty hit, the first few days after Naslund's injury were filled with calls of revenge at the next meeting. But a funny thing has happened since then, first off Naslund bounced back rather quickly, missing only three games from the incident. Next, the Avs went into a death spiral in the division seemingly unable to score goals let alone win games, that combined with a sudden spurt of energy by the Canucks, makes tonight's game a key one.
A Canuck victory would leap them ahead of the Avalanche in the standings and put a stamp on the Avs to ponder as the season winds down. Taking advantage of the struggling Avs might be the wisest strategy for the Canucks to follow, leave the retribution for some other time. The Avalanche look to be on the ropes at the moment, a solid thrashing on the scoreboard may be just what it takes to make them stumble further down the standings, causing GM Pierre Lacroix to question his players abilities days before the trade deadline.
Two teams heading in different directions, for the Canuck's tonight is a chance to keep the good vibe going. For the Avalanche, a loss will turn their dressing room upside down. One game, two different results possible.
The last time the two squads faced off, Captain Markus Naslund was left bleeding on the Pepsi Centre ice, the victim of a hit from Steve Moore. A hit that to this day continues to raise the blood pressure of Canuck player and fan alike. Seen by many as a dirty hit, the first few days after Naslund's injury were filled with calls of revenge at the next meeting. But a funny thing has happened since then, first off Naslund bounced back rather quickly, missing only three games from the incident. Next, the Avs went into a death spiral in the division seemingly unable to score goals let alone win games, that combined with a sudden spurt of energy by the Canucks, makes tonight's game a key one.
A Canuck victory would leap them ahead of the Avalanche in the standings and put a stamp on the Avs to ponder as the season winds down. Taking advantage of the struggling Avs might be the wisest strategy for the Canucks to follow, leave the retribution for some other time. The Avalanche look to be on the ropes at the moment, a solid thrashing on the scoreboard may be just what it takes to make them stumble further down the standings, causing GM Pierre Lacroix to question his players abilities days before the trade deadline.
Two teams heading in different directions, for the Canuck's tonight is a chance to keep the good vibe going. For the Avalanche, a loss will turn their dressing room upside down. One game, two different results possible.
Tuesday, March 02, 2004
Tossing Tony aside?
Have the Colorado Avalanche officially hit the panic button. With a horrendous slide continuing, most recently shut out by Tampa Bay, the Avs may be about to throw head coach Tony Granato to the wolves. A rumour out of New York is flying, that former St. Louis Blues headmaster Joel Quennville is about to arrive in the mile high city and take over the reins of the struggling Avalanche.
While it seems hard to believe, the Avalanche are mired in a rather dire situation. With all the offence that they can offer up, they're having a terrible time of scoring goals. And Pierre Lacroix is known for his dramatic moves at the trade deadline, so it's not inconceivable that he'd change the coach instead of the roster.
Things are wound rather tight in Colorado these days, Granato was involved in a shouting match on the bench last week. The team is on a losing skid at home that has the locals more than a little worried and things are going downhill fast for the Avalanche. Would changing the coach turn the season around? Not sure it's the best course, but it wouldn't be the first time a coach has been sacrificed to get a well compensated line up to perform.
With some key games coming up shortly, Lacroix may feel it's his last card to play to get the player's attention.
While it seems hard to believe, the Avalanche are mired in a rather dire situation. With all the offence that they can offer up, they're having a terrible time of scoring goals. And Pierre Lacroix is known for his dramatic moves at the trade deadline, so it's not inconceivable that he'd change the coach instead of the roster.
Things are wound rather tight in Colorado these days, Granato was involved in a shouting match on the bench last week. The team is on a losing skid at home that has the locals more than a little worried and things are going downhill fast for the Avalanche. Would changing the coach turn the season around? Not sure it's the best course, but it wouldn't be the first time a coach has been sacrificed to get a well compensated line up to perform.
With some key games coming up shortly, Lacroix may feel it's his last card to play to get the player's attention.
Ranger Rentals!
Is this the start of the great unburdening in New York. Has Glen Sather decided that his crew can't get it done, they're finished, time to get some value for his dead weight.
In what many anticipate is the first of many players moving on the Rangers sent Forward Alexi Kovalev to the Montreal Canadiens. In return the Habs gave up a prospect and a draft pick in 2004, not a bad exchange for a winger, that will add to their offensive output and should help put some distance between them and the ninth place runner ups.
Kovalev makes 6.6 million a year and is about to become an unrestricted free agent, so his time in the rouge, blanc et bleu may be shortlived, but for whatever time he's there, the Habs will all of a sudden become a lot more threatening to their divisional compatriots.
For New York it's possibly the signal that the doors are open, shopping hours have been extended and no reasonable offer refused. With Washington almost done with their Clearance sale, it may be time for the big store in Manhattan to yell Everything must go.
Rumoured to be joining Kovalev in new uniforms by next Tuesday, are the likes of Brian Leetch, Petr Nedved, Tom Poti and if he's cleared to play even Eric Lindros. Best rumour du jour, Mark Messier, one wag suggesting back to Vancouver to finish what he started there. Don't hold your breath on that one, would suspect that if Messier returned to Vancouver (he did get along well with Mr. McCaw) it would be the end of GM Brian Burke for sure.
Six days to go until the trade deadline, Sathermart is just about to turn on the red light specials!
In what many anticipate is the first of many players moving on the Rangers sent Forward Alexi Kovalev to the Montreal Canadiens. In return the Habs gave up a prospect and a draft pick in 2004, not a bad exchange for a winger, that will add to their offensive output and should help put some distance between them and the ninth place runner ups.
Kovalev makes 6.6 million a year and is about to become an unrestricted free agent, so his time in the rouge, blanc et bleu may be shortlived, but for whatever time he's there, the Habs will all of a sudden become a lot more threatening to their divisional compatriots.
For New York it's possibly the signal that the doors are open, shopping hours have been extended and no reasonable offer refused. With Washington almost done with their Clearance sale, it may be time for the big store in Manhattan to yell Everything must go.
Rumoured to be joining Kovalev in new uniforms by next Tuesday, are the likes of Brian Leetch, Petr Nedved, Tom Poti and if he's cleared to play even Eric Lindros. Best rumour du jour, Mark Messier, one wag suggesting back to Vancouver to finish what he started there. Don't hold your breath on that one, would suspect that if Messier returned to Vancouver (he did get along well with Mr. McCaw) it would be the end of GM Brian Burke for sure.
Six days to go until the trade deadline, Sathermart is just about to turn on the red light specials!
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