Re: The NHL Thread
 

http://www.russianmachineneverbreaks...sic-champs.jpg

Can't make this stuff up.

Re: The NHL Thread
 

:lol:lol

That is amazing.

Re: The NHL Thread
 

Leave it to the Caps to turn something as awesome as winning the WC into a big joke.

Re: The NHL Thread
 

Meanwhile the team on the ice continues to be on a nice roll. Just won again. They're now 10-2-3 in their last 15 and just jumped back ahead of the Rangers.

Re: The NHL Thread
 

We still have games at hand over everyone ahead of us. Not too worried about it.

Re: The NHL Thread
 

Teuvo Time.

Re: The NHL Thread
 

oh my god thank you caps for giving the rest of the NHL hope that they will never ever falter into Caps or Leafs territory.

Re: The NHL Thread
 

Teuvo clearly still has plenty of room to grow/learn. Not a good game for him. Hopefully just first game jitters and he starts to look better from this point forward.

Sick pass from DK to Sharpie for that OT winner. Matty will like that slap pass from the point. Great vision. That's another reason why I love #2 back there for the Hawks.

Re: The NHL Thread
 

Way to blow our chance to get to tip of eastern conference by having maybe worst game of season vs oilers,

Can't believe I got up early to watch the rest of this debacle.

Re: The NHL Thread
 

the NHL is so dumb for not playing all games this saturday in the afternoon before the NFL playoff games start.

Re: The NHL Thread
 

also, thoughts on CBJ/Avs game last night Matty?

was nice to see Savard get one back after that horrible turnover 30 seconds in.

What happened to the Avs though? they are just not the team they were last year although it appears to be all the same guys. There has to be talk of them moving Iginla, no?

Re: The NHL Thread
 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ap54xsnyd1U

:lorraine:lorraine:lorraine:lorraine:lorraine

Re: The NHL Thread
 

Not at all random.

Re: The NHL Thread
 

Dave Bolland withdrawal.

Re: The NHL Thread
 

Team's sitting second in the division, and will have even more decisions to make this offseason without him, I think you're ok. Although can't look directly at their cap situation with no capgeek.... :(

Re: The NHL Thread
 

yo brah, calm yourself.

btw, want McDonald back?

Re: The NHL Thread
 

Beautiful, beautiful work by Keith to not only pull off that no look pass right onto Sharpie's tape, but also to read that Spezza (who was marking Sharp) was anticipating the slapper and did not have Sharp covered.

Also, that play doesn't work if either of them is on their off hand. Awesome for Keith to notice that as well.

Re: The NHL Thread
 

I didn't catch the game last night, but from the looks of it there was some good moments.

The frustrating thing is I cannot point to one overarching thing that's different about the Avs. A couple pieces are different, but the core is the same. I think teams aren't as surprised by them anymore, and that's made a difference. The writers all point to defense, which I agree with. But if anything, I think they're a little BETTER on the back end than they were last year. So they can't point to that as the fix-all solution. I know it can sometimes be seen as a cop-out excuse, but I sort of think it's growing pains. A young unit just going through some tough times as they grow. I've been encouraged lately to see them putting together better stretches of play than they were at the start of the season. Having stability back in net and guys like MacKinnon finding their form has helped with that. So there's improvement. Enough to rescue the season? perhaps not, but enough to hopefully rebuild that foundation. They DEFINITELY don't have the swagger they had last season. They wouldn't admit it, but I think their first round exit to the Wild, followed by the crappy start to this season, really messed with their young psyche.

I don't think Iggy is on the move. He's actually been somewhat of a bright spot. 25 points ain't bad considering how the overall team has performed. I can't speak to what kind of leader he's been behind closed doors, but I hope there's something going on there.

O'Reilly seems to be the big piece of trade bait, and I'm OK with that - as much as I like the guy. His play has picked up as of late, which has to increase his appeal. I can't tell you how much I would love an O'Reilly for Yandle deal.

Re: The NHL Thread
 

i just meant trying to move Iggy to a team that has a better chance of winning the cup this year.

he was one of the better players on the ice last night for the avs.

Re: The NHL Thread
 

would love iggy back in boston. they aren't winning the cup though

Re: The NHL Thread
 

OK, I see what you mean. :thumbsup He gave that a shot the last couple seasons and it didn't work out, which is too bad.

He has mentioned that there were two big reasons he chose Colorado: The potential of the team, and the youth hockey for his kids. Apparently it's pretty good there, enough to make him perk up. So at this point, I'm wondering if he's thinking more about family stability (Denver IS an awesome city to live in, IMO) than getting the Cup. That's just me talking out my ass though, no evidence to back it up.

Re: The NHL Thread
 

I think he picked Colorado because he called Borque and asked for advice :lol

Re: The NHL Thread
 

:lol

Bourque voicemail to Iggy, the day after Iggy signed: "Hey, it's Ray. So, uh, I kinda forgot that Sakic, Blake, Roy (sorta), Forsberg, Foote, and Drury aren't on the team any more. You might want to think twice, buddy."

Re: The NHL Thread
 

omg canada is going to blow another gold medal game.

Re: The NHL Thread
 

You bite your tongue.


This game is all around mental.

Re: The NHL Thread
 

Phew!!! Goooooooooooooooooooold.

My favourite 10 days of hockey comes to a fitting conclusion. Now, back to cheering for a bunch of losers.

Re: The NHL Thread
 

Top 3 selling NHL jerseys in 2014 in order:

1) Kane
2) Crosby
3) Toews

Re: The NHL Thread
 

You spelled OMGCG wrong three times.

Re: The NHL Thread
 

That was stressful. Pretty impressive group of kids.

Re: The NHL Thread
 

:lol

I'm willing to bet there was only one Foote Avs third uni sold in all of 2014. And I am its proud owner.

Re: The NHL Thread
 

Ha ha. Nah. I'm calm. But the oilers ??? Needed that game.

And you can keep Amac. Good bottom pair but exposed at big minutes vs the big boys. Good guy , though.

Re: The NHL Thread
 

:lol:lol:lol

I wouldn't say I'm shocked, but at least a little surprised to see Kane overtake Crosby as the #1 selling sweater.

Re: The NHL Thread
 

If you want to be unique, get a Foote CBJ one.

Re: The NHL Thread
 

Been trying to turn off the notifications on my phone about tweets from people I follow or ones I might be intersted in, but today I'm glad it did. Carlyle out in TO. how much money does that waste first? Second, the Babs rumors will go fucking nuts now.

Re: The NHL Thread
 

Babcock will definitely not go to the wasteland.

I see him in DET, PIT, or PHI next season.

Re: The NHL Thread
 

Those would be my top places probably, Detroit still makes the most sense to me. Philly isn't much better, no offense. They just can't seem to be patient and get it right. Pens, fire their brand new coach, who is doing well, especially with their injuries...again? I understand for the best coach, you do it, but I'd lose a little respect for them cause that would be pretty shitty. Minny is place that will probably need a new coach, but they have issues too. Detroit just makes too much sense. Good now, good in the future with Mantha, Larkin and others, and great ownership. Obviously I'm biased, but trying to be as objective as possible here. Also, he hates when media pushes into stupid shit, like his contract negotiations, increase that by 1000 in TO.

Back to the OT shit though, what a cluster fuck. Can't say much more than that.

Re: The NHL Thread
 

Would love to see a Babcock extension announced today :lol

Re: The NHL Thread
 

That would be hilarious. Sadly, he seems set on waiting until the season is done. He's probably happy they are done playing the Leafs to not have to answers that question every time they play.

Re: The NHL Thread
 

babcock would be dumb to leave detroit.

i don't even need to back that up with opinions, it's just a fact.

Re: The NHL Thread
 

Yeah, me too. I think it, along with the all-star starting rosters, are just two inidcators to how popular the Blackhawks are right now.
This is actually on my list. I really want one.

Becs - if you happen to see one in the trash somewhere, do me a solid and send it my way?
Yeah, I can't see him leaving Detroit yet.

Re: The NHL Thread
 

my buddy actually has one in his closet :lol

it's the old one with the neon stick on the shoulder though.

Re: The NHL Thread
 

:lol

He probably wouldn't even miss it, right?

Re: The NHL Thread
 

I don't remember who does and who doesn't skate in this thread, but do any of you that do use one of these?

http://www.amazon.com/Bauer-Concept-...NVRESP6P6NCYJ7

My buddy just ended up in the hospital getting stitches due to a high stick that split open his face, and I think it's about time I cover my damn face. I just HATE the full cage.

Re: The NHL Thread
 

Babcock to Toronto? you heard it here first!

Re: The NHL Thread
 

First? :lol

Re: The NHL Thread
 

I use a full mask just like that one now, initially against my will.

I used to go no visor, just helmet. Then I broke my nose blocking a shot. Mrs. Fonzz bought me the full cage (with the help of my dad, I later found out - traitor) the next week and informed me that if I wanted her continued support in playing my little "game" every week, I needed to wear it.

It caused an argument.









Now I wear the full shield.

It took some getting used to, but after about two games I was OK with it. I'm considering going back to a classic cage though, as mine does have the tendency to get a little foggy and I hate that.

EDIT: I see the one you're looking at has anti-fog coating. Haven't heard anything on how effective that is.

Re: The NHL Thread
 

yup. FIRST!

Re: The NHL Thread
 

Toronto should hire Bylsma

Re: The NHL Thread
 

I don't play, but I'd be wearing a shield or cage if I did. I don't make millions and am ugly enough. Don't want to be getting scars if the $$ doesn't come with it.

Re: The NHL Thread
 

Yeah, now that I have kids and stuff it makes more sense to have it on.

But although it may not seem like that big of a deal, there's something awesome about skating and feeling the cold air on your face. It's one of my favorite parts of the game, and it's limited by the damn cage.

Re: The NHL Thread
 

no chance, i could swipe it completely undetected.

i used those when i played in high school because they gave them to us for free at the beginning of the season. there is no solution to it fogging up from your breath. always went back to the full cage.

i also lost the majority of my front teeth while i was wearing one of those :lol

yes please.

Re: The NHL Thread
 

PM-ing you my address now. I can pay you in spare legos and fruit snacks.

I want to hear the story of losing your front teeth.

Re: The NHL Thread
 

i actually consider fruit snacks to be worth more than american currency so that's terrific.

it was my soph year of high school, first game starting varsity. 20 seconds into opening shift i skated up behind a tie up when my own teammate pulled his stick back in an effort to pull the puck away from the boards. The butt of his stick got under my mask which was probably too lose and caught me right in the front teeth. lost basically 75% of one of them and the corner chunk of the other. luckily i've always had capable dentists.

Re: The NHL Thread
 

You will love being a dad (when that happens) for the amount of sheer fruit snacks you'll have around your house. My wife wonders how we go through them so fast. She has no idea how much of them I eat.

Rad story man. Would've loved to hear that you got them punched out fighting a guy who messed with your goalie. But dude, a hockey injury is a hockey injury.

Re: The NHL Thread
 

I knew Matty would understand my problems with the face protection. I love being able to lift my visor kind of like Kronwall:

http://ccmhockey.com/sites/default/f...all1-500_0.jpg

And just feel the rink against my face. I love being able to see everything, have no obstructions, be able to wipe my face of sweat, drink water easily, etc. Plus, I just hate the feeling of something on my face, it's always in the back of my mind.

Also, it's funny that is 90% of the time the reason I hear for guys wearing a cage. "My girl made me do it" :lol

Re: The NHL Thread
 

:lol Well, you basically just sold me on not getting one.

Re: The NHL Thread
 

:lol admittedly it probably would have happened if i was wearing a cage since we wore those loose as well.

the reason not to get one is that it fogs up.

Re: The NHL Thread
 

Oh I get it, from when I used to play on the pond but that was just me and my friends playing. Maybe I'm a pussy but I wouldn't want to take the injury, but that's me.

Re: The NHL Thread
 

The Force is strong with them, man.

Re: The NHL Thread
 

Good Euphemism right there.

Re: The NHL Thread
 

Perhaps one of the only times I've agreed (mostly) with something Ken Campbell wrote.

http://www.thehockeynews.com/blog/to...ust-the-coach/

Thoughts, particularly from Alazais?

Re: The NHL Thread
 

Yeah, you get it.

Re: The NHL Thread
 

That's maybe the subconscious reason why I keep wearing the visor while I can :lol:lol

Re: The NHL Thread
 

Just watch Big Shot on espn's 30 for 30. Amazing story haha. Didn't really know much about what happened there. Islanders were lucky to survive that debacle!

Re: The NHL Thread
 

Throwing my thoughts out there. This sounds pretty spot on. This team is such a mishmash. They didn't want to just accept that maybe blowing it all up and having patience was the best way to go. So they have a bunch of contacts that suck, and not much in the system.

Re: The NHL Thread
 

Hawks been getting off to some real hot starts these past 5 games.

Re: The NHL Thread
 

Meh. Whatevs.

Re: The NHL Thread
 

Yeah, Oduya lost that game with a bad 30 seconds. Fuck it.

Re: The NHL Thread
 

Didn't watch the game (cause I'm old and can't stay up late) but fast-forwarded through it this am on Tivo and they pretty much dominated that crap team and barely won. I'll take the win but they got a find a way to score more when they are taking 40 shots.

Re: The NHL Thread
 

Flyers won a shootout for the first time in over a calendar year. The apocalypse is coming.

Re: The NHL Thread
 

Wow, worse than the Wings, surprising. Now if the Wings game against the Flames tonight goes to a SO and they win, the day after the Flyers, then yeah, take cover everyone.

Re: The NHL Thread
 

I don't know if it was so much Oduya that lost it as it was Varly that won it.

Re: The NHL Thread
 

Another loss for the Coyotes....come on Keith Yandle.

Re: The NHL Thread
 

you shut your mouth. He's mine. MINE!

Re: The NHL Thread
 

Avs can probably give more but he's only got a year left after this one. And for any team looking to get him, could be a risk.

Re: The NHL Thread
 

CBJ back over 500.

starting to get healthy. could get interesting here.

Re: The NHL Thread
 

remember what u were saying a month ago :lol

Re: The NHL Thread
 

what was i saying?

Re: The NHL Thread
 

No one loses a hockey game in one shift, let alone because of one dangle.

Re: The NHL Thread
 

And since December 1, the Jackets are what...12-2-1?

Re: The NHL Thread
 

Yes and no. I mean I understand the argument both ways. Now I didn't see the game, so can't comment on that instance. But Steve Smith putting it off of Fuhr's skate, decided that game. Now I know you'll say there were other chances for the losing team to win or score or whatever, and that might be true, but that one play decided that game.
Yeah but I'm thinking he was referring to them being done or something similar. He was pretty down if I remember right. But that's the fun about sports, it can swing. Well it's fun when it swings to the good.

Re: The NHL Thread
 

:lol yep, and still a considerable distance out of the playoff picture

Re: The NHL Thread
 

Yeah, but if someone else had scored at another time or another opportunity had been capitalized on, the Smith thing may not have even mattered. Not disagreeing with you, just saying it's always hard to point out one instance or player who "lost" a game for a team.

In this case, the Avs scored two quick goals at the very beginning of the game. After that, the Blackhawks basically kicked the crap out of them. That's why I say it wasn't anyone on the Blackhawks that lost that game, it was Varly basically going out and winning it by himself. 54 saves. Sheesh.

Although MacKinnon's work on both goals was a thing of beauty.

Re: The NHL Thread
 

This. What if the Oilers put a couple more in the net instead of ringing them off the post? What if Fuhr made a couple more stops?

There's always an opportunity to nullify mistakes. No one loses a game because they got dangled once in a game. Even if it was a pretty nasty dangle.

I wouldn't say that in the slightest. In fact, I'd say the opposite. If they win this next one against Toronto, they have 2 games in hand and will be 4 points back, which puts them in great position to overtake the Leafs, who just happen to hold the last spot. They'd also be ahead of Ottawa, and 3 points back of Boston with 1 game in hand. They're right fuckin' there. I think they're gonna make it, but I've been wrong before.

Re: The NHL Thread
 

Pens pp is looking dangerous as hell. Shame they couldnt bury any of those chances.

Re: The NHL Thread
 

Caps keep rolling. Completely man handled Toronto tonight.

Re: The NHL Thread
 

Yup. Another thing for Columbus to overtake Toronto. A win for them on the 9th over the imploding Leafs (shocker) and they will be 4 points back with 3 games in hand. Columbus is right in this bad boy.

Good for the Caps too.

Re: The NHL Thread
 

You know, I know the Caps are often seen as a big joke around here, but they've been playing some unbelievable hockey lately.

Re: The NHL Thread
 

:thumbsup Trotz and Laviolette are my front runners for the Adams.

And I'm so glad I decided to hold on to Holtby in my fantasy club.

But yeah, the Caps could win the Cup and we'd still make fun of them. It's just part of the thread culture at this point. :)

Lollerpens.

Re: The NHL Thread
 

Damn good game.


No way that stick was under the crossbar though.

Re: The NHL Thread
 

This is why I loathe people who still to this day blame Michael Leighton for making the Flyers lose the Stanley Cup.

Re: The NHL Thread
 

I bet. I was real hard on the guy earlier in the season, but he's been an absolute beast for about 6 weeks now. He's started over 20 in a row, and won like 15 or 16 of them.

I do expect he'll sit out tonight though.

Re: The NHL Thread
 

I honestly didn't realize the Caps have closed the gap to 4 behind the Isles and 5 behind the Pens. Plus a game on hand. Wow.

Those Rangers though. They just won't stop.

Re: The NHL Thread
 

maple laughs can't lose enough. Love it.

Re: The NHL Thread
 

there's angles where I was saying the same thing. then again, there's angles where it was either under or so close there's no way they could overturn it. and then there's angles where it looks like it didn't even hit the stick :lol

pens had so many chances. no doubt in my mind the b's would get swept or lose in 5 in a 7 game series against them right now.

Re: The NHL Thread
 

So my roommate got an email from the Kings about a package for the stadium series in San Jose. Air fare, hotel and tickets to the game. The email didn't have any prices on it, so she called and it was all free for being a Crown Club member. They are giving her 4 tickets total. Looks like I'm going to the game after all!

Re: The NHL Thread
 

Rangers continue to be the hottest team in the NHL winning 11 of their last 12. They also still have at least two games at hand on everyone ahead of them!

I don't expect a W tonight though. Kind of shitty for the NHL to make this match up a night after they just played a game.

Re: The NHL Thread
 

Pens deserved a better result last night

absolutely dominated the B's outside of a few shifts here and there

love the way they're playing right now. if the Pens ever get healthy, it's gonna get scary

Re: The NHL Thread
 

Kings coming off a 4 day break too. Could be good or bad.