Well, it's been a long time in-between posts for me. Blame the holidays and all the various requisite antics that go along with them...
However Im back to comment on the Flames come from behind victory over the Wild last night. However, before we get to that, let's catch-up a tad:
- Flames defeat Vancouver 6-5 in a shoot-out. Probably one of the most exciting hockey games this year. Not exactly a gem in terms of defensive performace, but a great one to win nonetheless. Should (but wont) quiet the constant accusations that Calgary is a "boring" team.
- Flames defeat Vancouver 2-1. Not quite as good as the pre-Christmas Day shoot-out. Huselius proves his worth with 2 points and the Flames win thanks to Vancouver constantly hitting posts.
- Flames fall to Nashville 4-3. Like so many other losses this year, the Flames went up 2-0 early and then sucked the-big-one for the rest of the game. Also...One of Iginla's worst games this year.
I think that about does it.
Last night's game was half a snore-fest and half a remarkable turn-around for several slump-mired Flames. Most notably, Donovan managed to break-out of his 30-something game scoring slump when he knotted the score at 2 near the end of the second. In addition, the much maligned Jason Wiemer finally did something useful and scored an insurance goal later in the 3rd. The Cherry-on-top was Richie Regehr going +2 and getting an assist in his first NHL appearance. Kudos!
The first half of last night's contest was nearly unwatchable. Calgary looked lathargic and the Wild were the Wild. The Flames seemed to come alive after falling behind 2-1 late in the second. Shean Donovan was the main spark behind the Flame's awakening; not only did he score the tying goal, he fired 5 shots on net, assisted on Wiemer's goal and was voted first star on the evening. Finally! Dono's starting to look something like the player that scored 18 goals (8 game-winners) last season.
On other hand we have Jarome Iginla. While watching his impassioned performance during the 6-5 win over Vancity, I was hopeful that he had snapped out of his December doldrums. How wrong I was. Iginla has been all but invisible since. He played a mere 17 minutes against the Predators and was a complete non-factor in Calgary's 4-3 loss on Wed. night. He played a similar game last night against the Wild - shots misfired or shot into the goalies chest. Clumsy play along the perimeter with an inability to significantly penetrate the offensive zone. A tendency to turn the puck over. 0 points...
Positives:
- Calgary wins and reclaims (for now) 1st place in the NW Division.
- Donovan sets the tone with this work ethic and speed. Breaks out of his slump with an impressive performance.
- Reinprecht with another 2 points, including the game winner. Starting to come alive.
- Wiemer plays one his best games of the year and finally scores.
- Amonte ends his own mini-slump of 5 games with a PP goal.
- 2nd half of the game. Calgary comes alive to salt away the victory.
Negatives:
- First half of the game. Ugly and boring.
- Iginla. Mediocre play, at best. Completely ineffectual right now.
- Phaneuf. Great play to set-up the PP goal, but was on for both Wild goals and at least 2 other Wild break-aways (and was the culprit behind Rolston's penalty-shot). Minnesota's penchant for the stretch-pass and sneaking players behind the Flames d-men exploited Phaneuf's inexperience.
The Flames next meet Edmonton on New Years Eve. The two teams are battling for 1st in the division (and the season series is notted at 2 wins apeice), setting the stage for an all-out war. Will this be the catalyst for Iginla's awakening? And how many times am I going to have ask that question?
Friday, December 30, 2005
Friday, December 23, 2005
On a More Personal Note...
...I recently became a contributing writer to www.fantasyhockey.com. It looks like I'll be writing one or two articles per month for the site. My first piece will be published sometime this coming Sunday. It's just a basic overview of the state of hockey since the end of the lock-out. In the future, I plan to write more "fantasy" focused articles, but the first piece I just mentioned is on more of a "general" hockey note. I titled the article "Hockey as Heathy as Ever" (though Im unaware if the editor has altered it)...so check it out if you have the chance (or are incredibly bored).
Tale of Two...Struggling Teams
Struggling may be a bit of an exaggeration considering that the Flames and Canucks have only lost 2 in a row and 3 in a row, respectively. However, the Flames losses were both uncharacteristic defeats; both games they had the lead and both games they gave up 5 goals. That type of behavior hasn't happened since late October (Flames wise) I do believe. On the other hand, the Canuckleheads have dropped 3 straight home games after being one of the best teams at home earlier in the season. Vancouver's most recent loss was a surreal 80's style shoot-out that resulted in a 7-6 decision for Edmonton. There is some budding anxiety in Vancity (thanks to their recent string of defensive futulity) that Auld may not be capable of carrying the load of a #1 goalie just yet. Should the Canucks lose either of the next two games against Calgary, expect the trade rumors to heat up furiously in January. Of course, since Colorado and Edmonton are also on the look-out for #1 tenders, the search may be a long and pricey one for our rivals to the West.
So, anyone want to hazard a prediction for the game tonight? I can't say that Im brave enough to try. With both teams playing so poorly recently, it figures to be a toss up. I earnestly HOPE Calgary can pull out a victory, but...
So, anyone want to hazard a prediction for the game tonight? I can't say that Im brave enough to try. With both teams playing so poorly recently, it figures to be a toss up. I earnestly HOPE Calgary can pull out a victory, but...
Thursday, December 22, 2005
Bah! Bah I say!
I had the misfortune of attending the Flames 5-2 loss last night. It was, from start to finish, a rather listless affair. The second period in particular was snooze-worthy. Not to mention, of course, the Flames monumental collapse that resulted in the King's 5 unanswered goals (4 in the third). Last night's debacle followed a script similar to the loss to the 'Hawks that halted the Flames 8 game winning streak in mid-November - score some goals early thanks to multiple powerplays and then disappear for the remainder of the contest. Also: Poor decision making in the defensive zone (Ference and Warrener again). Oh! And: a very ordinary Miikka Kiprusoff.
Whatever happened to Calgary over their 1 week lay-off has to be rectified soon. Prior to the break, the Flames were a "3rd period", tight-checking group that ground the opposition down and pulled out ties and victories. In fact, prior to the last 2 losses, Calgary was 12-0-1 when leading going into the 3rd. After their week away from competition, Calgary seem to have inverted their winning formula into: score some goals early and fade over the stretch. The Flames won their first game back against Boston with this dubious new strategem, but largely thanks to the efforts of Kipper. In the recent losses to Edmonton and LA, Calgary's defense has grown more lackluster and Kipper has been very ordinary. Last night, for instance, LA had 5 goals on 18 shots (1 into an empty-net). In the 3rd, Calgary scored 0 goals on 11 shots, and LA scored 4 on 6. Ouch. While this sounds bad, consider that one goal was a deflection off of a Calgary player, one was a flat-out break-away, another was an LA deflection and the last an empty-netter. In fact, scoring chances were rather even over the course of the game - LA's chances were simply opportunisitcally buried (and very ill-timed). Perhaps 2 of the Kings goals were truly stoppable - their 1st, a shot from the high slot, and their 3rd, a long range deflection that beat Kipper because he over-comitted to the original shot. That said, the Flames didn't play a very inspired hockey game overall. The fact that the second period was such a bore is an indictment of their effort - mainly since the Flames should have used it to bury a reeling Kings squad. Instead, Calgary squandered 4 PP opportunities, mustered all of 7 shots, and allowed their opponents back in the game. In the third, the wheels fell off completely. 2 goals 30 seconds apart and the Flames were out of it. In fact, truth be told, they seemed pretty much out of it at the conclusion of the first period...
Blast it all! The last 2 losses have been galling more thanks to their character than to their existence. Both were wins to be had and both were lost due to the failure of the Flames supposed strengths (goaltending, defense). One can only hope that we straighten up and fly right before the upcoming games against the Canucks...
Positives:
- Dion Phanuef. Great plays to set-up both Calgary goals.
- Err...McCarty had a nice hit in the first period.
- Iginla pots a PP goal.
Negatives:
- Relinquish 2 goal lead to lose 5-2.
- Give up 5 unanswered goals.
- The second period. The Flames looked like they were simply going through the motions. Couldn't execute even the most elementary plays. no real puck pursuit, passion or finish.
- Fall into 3rd place in the NW division.
- Kipper. Not terribly sharp when the game was on the line.
- Ference and Warrener. Hmmm, where to start? Were -3 and -2 respectively, for a combined -9 over the last 2 games. The Kings scored the game tying PP goal on a Warrener penalty as well. Also, Demitra's break-away occured thanks to a Warrener/Ference gaffe. Simply horrid.
- Iginla. Was pretty much invisble after scoing his PP goal. Ended up a -3 on the night.
- Wiemer. Just useless.
- Simon. Didn't really do much besides get a bone-headed "unsportsmanlike" penalty.
That's all I can think of right now. There's probably more.
Oh, and here's a parting question - how much do the Flames miss Stephane Yelle?
Whatever happened to Calgary over their 1 week lay-off has to be rectified soon. Prior to the break, the Flames were a "3rd period", tight-checking group that ground the opposition down and pulled out ties and victories. In fact, prior to the last 2 losses, Calgary was 12-0-1 when leading going into the 3rd. After their week away from competition, Calgary seem to have inverted their winning formula into: score some goals early and fade over the stretch. The Flames won their first game back against Boston with this dubious new strategem, but largely thanks to the efforts of Kipper. In the recent losses to Edmonton and LA, Calgary's defense has grown more lackluster and Kipper has been very ordinary. Last night, for instance, LA had 5 goals on 18 shots (1 into an empty-net). In the 3rd, Calgary scored 0 goals on 11 shots, and LA scored 4 on 6. Ouch. While this sounds bad, consider that one goal was a deflection off of a Calgary player, one was a flat-out break-away, another was an LA deflection and the last an empty-netter. In fact, scoring chances were rather even over the course of the game - LA's chances were simply opportunisitcally buried (and very ill-timed). Perhaps 2 of the Kings goals were truly stoppable - their 1st, a shot from the high slot, and their 3rd, a long range deflection that beat Kipper because he over-comitted to the original shot. That said, the Flames didn't play a very inspired hockey game overall. The fact that the second period was such a bore is an indictment of their effort - mainly since the Flames should have used it to bury a reeling Kings squad. Instead, Calgary squandered 4 PP opportunities, mustered all of 7 shots, and allowed their opponents back in the game. In the third, the wheels fell off completely. 2 goals 30 seconds apart and the Flames were out of it. In fact, truth be told, they seemed pretty much out of it at the conclusion of the first period...
Blast it all! The last 2 losses have been galling more thanks to their character than to their existence. Both were wins to be had and both were lost due to the failure of the Flames supposed strengths (goaltending, defense). One can only hope that we straighten up and fly right before the upcoming games against the Canucks...
Positives:
- Dion Phanuef. Great plays to set-up both Calgary goals.
- Err...McCarty had a nice hit in the first period.
- Iginla pots a PP goal.
Negatives:
- Relinquish 2 goal lead to lose 5-2.
- Give up 5 unanswered goals.
- The second period. The Flames looked like they were simply going through the motions. Couldn't execute even the most elementary plays. no real puck pursuit, passion or finish.
- Fall into 3rd place in the NW division.
- Kipper. Not terribly sharp when the game was on the line.
- Ference and Warrener. Hmmm, where to start? Were -3 and -2 respectively, for a combined -9 over the last 2 games. The Kings scored the game tying PP goal on a Warrener penalty as well. Also, Demitra's break-away occured thanks to a Warrener/Ference gaffe. Simply horrid.
- Iginla. Was pretty much invisble after scoing his PP goal. Ended up a -3 on the night.
- Wiemer. Just useless.
- Simon. Didn't really do much besides get a bone-headed "unsportsmanlike" penalty.
That's all I can think of right now. There's probably more.
Oh, and here's a parting question - how much do the Flames miss Stephane Yelle?
Wednesday, December 21, 2005
Canada's Olympic Roster
As reported by TSN...here.
And yes, as expected, Jovo made it. Thumbs down.
And yes, the controversial Todd Bertuzzi made it. More thumbs down.
I hope they can change my mind during the torunament.
I don't have much of an issue with any of the other picks besides, perhaps, Draper. While he's proven to be a decent checker and PK specialist during his career, he is having a rather poor season so far. One of the alternates (Spezza, Staal) or even one of his own teammates (Shanahan) would have been a better choice in my humble opinion. Oh well...
Aside from that...GO GET 'EM BOYS.
And yes, as expected, Jovo made it. Thumbs down.
And yes, the controversial Todd Bertuzzi made it. More thumbs down.
I hope they can change my mind during the torunament.
I don't have much of an issue with any of the other picks besides, perhaps, Draper. While he's proven to be a decent checker and PK specialist during his career, he is having a rather poor season so far. One of the alternates (Spezza, Staal) or even one of his own teammates (Shanahan) would have been a better choice in my humble opinion. Oh well...
Aside from that...GO GET 'EM BOYS.
This 'n That
Nothing too major to cover today. In fact, I'm posting mainly to comment on the fact that Jason Spezza managed to embarass the Canadiens again last night (remember his hilight reel goal earlier in the season?). In fact, he managed to embarass the same Canadiens defender - Sheldon Souray. Unlike the earlier goal, which was simply slick stickhandling brilliance, last night's tally was more of the sneaky, duplicitous type. If you watch a replay, Souray's skating with the puck towards the corner behind his own net. Suddenly, and seemingly inexplicably, Souray drops the puck behind his back to a waiting Spezza, who walks out (almost casually) to deposit the puck behind a startled Garon. Of course, anyone who's played hockey knows that players talk to each other on the ice...meaning Souray probably heard a quick "back!" or "reverse!" from Spezza (posing as a teammate). Usually it's rookies who fall for those kind of ploys, but last night it was poor, poor Souray. Again.
Other issues of note:
- I should probably mention that Montreal ended up getting the last laugh last night, coming from 3 goals behind to defeat Ottawa in a SO, 4-3.
- Curtis Joesph got hammered by the Blues (of all teams) last night to the tune of 5 goals on 13 shots. Ouch. Even without Tkachuk, the Blues managed to go 3for4 on the PP, while Phoenix was a lousy 2for10. Not only did the 'Yotes lose to the lowly Blues, despite enjoying 6 more PP opportunities, but they lost to the lowly Blues backed by a 3rd string goalie, Jason Bacashihua. Double ouch.
- Eric Staal lead the Hurricanes past the Lightning last night with his league leading 24th goal. It's almost a crime if this guy doesn't make the Canadian Olympic team roster.
- Yup, today's the day they name Team Canada. And I just know Jovo's gonna be on there. And I just can't fathom why that is. Don't agree? Take a look at his stats compared to his teammates...here. He's a team worst -6, despite his 22 points (Salo has the same number of points, but is +10). Canada isn't going to need extra scoring punch from the blueline...they're going to need rock solid defense. If we're choosing d-men based on point production, Bryan McCabe is more deserving of a roster spot than Jovo, anyways. But, it looks like his presence at prior international tournaments is going to get Jovo into this one too...boooo is all I have to say. Boo.
- The New Jersey Devils, in a state of flux since the resignation of head coach Larry Robinson and the sudden retirement of Malakhov, have recently signed 40 year old d-man Tommy Albelin! I know...I didn't see that one coming either. And, despite all this drama, they still managed to beat the Rangers last night 3-1!
- That's about it for now aside from my semi-habitual game-day threat to the Flames, which is: WIN FLAMES...OR I WILL SICK FERNANDO PISANI ON YOU.
Other issues of note:
- I should probably mention that Montreal ended up getting the last laugh last night, coming from 3 goals behind to defeat Ottawa in a SO, 4-3.
- Curtis Joesph got hammered by the Blues (of all teams) last night to the tune of 5 goals on 13 shots. Ouch. Even without Tkachuk, the Blues managed to go 3for4 on the PP, while Phoenix was a lousy 2for10. Not only did the 'Yotes lose to the lowly Blues, despite enjoying 6 more PP opportunities, but they lost to the lowly Blues backed by a 3rd string goalie, Jason Bacashihua. Double ouch.
- Eric Staal lead the Hurricanes past the Lightning last night with his league leading 24th goal. It's almost a crime if this guy doesn't make the Canadian Olympic team roster.
- Yup, today's the day they name Team Canada. And I just know Jovo's gonna be on there. And I just can't fathom why that is. Don't agree? Take a look at his stats compared to his teammates...here. He's a team worst -6, despite his 22 points (Salo has the same number of points, but is +10). Canada isn't going to need extra scoring punch from the blueline...they're going to need rock solid defense. If we're choosing d-men based on point production, Bryan McCabe is more deserving of a roster spot than Jovo, anyways. But, it looks like his presence at prior international tournaments is going to get Jovo into this one too...boooo is all I have to say. Boo.
- The New Jersey Devils, in a state of flux since the resignation of head coach Larry Robinson and the sudden retirement of Malakhov, have recently signed 40 year old d-man Tommy Albelin! I know...I didn't see that one coming either. And, despite all this drama, they still managed to beat the Rangers last night 3-1!
- That's about it for now aside from my semi-habitual game-day threat to the Flames, which is: WIN FLAMES...OR I WILL SICK FERNANDO PISANI ON YOU.
Tuesday, December 20, 2005
Edit -
Below I claimed the Flames blew two 2 goals leads during last nights contest, which isn't true. They blew two 1 goal leads and one 2 goal lead.
So...Im an idiot. Please rain the insults down upon me.
So...Im an idiot. Please rain the insults down upon me.
Heartbreaker
Last night's loss to the Oilers sure was a stomach-turner. I can't remember the last time this Sutter-coached version of the Flames relinquished two 2 goal leads in a game...especially with Kipper in net. Of course, it would have to be on the day I post an entry commending Miikka on his outstanding play that he turns in a decidedly ordinary performance. Conversely, Iggy did the same, thereby making my last post look at least half right...
Kudos and plentiful congratulations should be heaped upon the Oil stains for their gritty, never quit performance last night. Jeers and contempt-filled boos should be heaped upon the Flames for the lax defensive zone game - filled with much standing still and puck watching. I believe the last contest the Flames did their best "stunned observers" impression was the loss against Chicago. In similar fashion to last night's set-back, Calgary staked out an early lead and then spent the rest of the contest sleep-walking around their own zone. Im hoping, like the Chicago game, Calgary can get it back on track again right away...
Positives:
- Scored 4 goals. Rare... so even in a loss, it's a notable achievement.
- Huselius with another 2 points, including his first goal as a Flame.
- Lombardi. Looked confident and dangerous in the offensive zone. The Amonte-Lombardi-Kobasew line seemed to be the only combination that could do anything of note in the 3rd period.
Negatives:
- Lose to the Oilers. Even though we had multiple 2 goal leads in the game. Now tied for 2nd in the NW division with Edmonton and fall 2 back of Vancouver.
- Defensive play - team. The Flames look baffled and lost in their own end last night. They backed into their goalie too quickly and they lost their defensive assignments too easily. I was heard yelling "STOP STANDING AROUND!" at least a dozen times last night.
- Defensive play - Ference/Warrener. Ference has had a strong few weeks of play, so I've been kind to him. But, let's be candid, he was brutal last night. As was his partner, the usually dependable Rhett Warrener. The tandem was on the ice for 3 of the Oilers 5 goals, including the game winner. I was distraught to see them out there with the game tied and a minute left...and it turns out I was right to be.
- Kiprusoff. Wasn't bad, but certainly wasn't good by his standards. Probably 2 of the Oilers goal were pretty stoppable pucks. Igor Ulanov had his first 2 goal game of his career...that about says it all I'd say.
- Jarome Iginla. Got a nice assist on the Langkow goal, but was invisible when the game was on the line in the third. Was caught puck-watching on the game winning goal. Still not a dominating force.
Let me end there by saying: I hope this is the last time Calgary chases a starting goalie from the opposition's net and LOSES. Next up - Conroy's return!
Kudos and plentiful congratulations should be heaped upon the Oil stains for their gritty, never quit performance last night. Jeers and contempt-filled boos should be heaped upon the Flames for the lax defensive zone game - filled with much standing still and puck watching. I believe the last contest the Flames did their best "stunned observers" impression was the loss against Chicago. In similar fashion to last night's set-back, Calgary staked out an early lead and then spent the rest of the contest sleep-walking around their own zone. Im hoping, like the Chicago game, Calgary can get it back on track again right away...
Positives:
- Scored 4 goals. Rare... so even in a loss, it's a notable achievement.
- Huselius with another 2 points, including his first goal as a Flame.
- Lombardi. Looked confident and dangerous in the offensive zone. The Amonte-Lombardi-Kobasew line seemed to be the only combination that could do anything of note in the 3rd period.
Negatives:
- Lose to the Oilers. Even though we had multiple 2 goal leads in the game. Now tied for 2nd in the NW division with Edmonton and fall 2 back of Vancouver.
- Defensive play - team. The Flames look baffled and lost in their own end last night. They backed into their goalie too quickly and they lost their defensive assignments too easily. I was heard yelling "STOP STANDING AROUND!" at least a dozen times last night.
- Defensive play - Ference/Warrener. Ference has had a strong few weeks of play, so I've been kind to him. But, let's be candid, he was brutal last night. As was his partner, the usually dependable Rhett Warrener. The tandem was on the ice for 3 of the Oilers 5 goals, including the game winner. I was distraught to see them out there with the game tied and a minute left...and it turns out I was right to be.
- Kiprusoff. Wasn't bad, but certainly wasn't good by his standards. Probably 2 of the Oilers goal were pretty stoppable pucks. Igor Ulanov had his first 2 goal game of his career...that about says it all I'd say.
- Jarome Iginla. Got a nice assist on the Langkow goal, but was invisible when the game was on the line in the third. Was caught puck-watching on the game winning goal. Still not a dominating force.
Let me end there by saying: I hope this is the last time Calgary chases a starting goalie from the opposition's net and LOSES. Next up - Conroy's return!
Monday, December 19, 2005
Of Kipper and Jarome
Thanks to the lack of television coverage (not including some kinda elusive satellite package), I was relegated to fuzzy online hilights and next-day-paper-coverage for my Flames/Bruins game info. All I really know, therefore, is that Calgary scored 3 goals almost immediately and then spent the rest of the game fending off the Boston counter-attack. That's what it sounds like, at least. And by "Calgary fending off" I mean "Kipper fending off". Which brings me to the most significant accomplishment of the evening; Miikka's league-leading 5th shut-out. Keep in mind that Hasek is the only other tender to have more than 2. With the win Saturday night, Kiprusoff is now tied for 3rd overall in term of victories, and is second in the league with a 2.06 GAA (Hasek's first at 1.99). If the Flames had actually shown up for the season-opening road-trip, Kipper would no doubt be the league-leader in most, if not all, of the significant goaltender statisitcal categories. Should his outstanding play continue for the remainder of the year, I would expect some Vezina and Hart nominations for the Kipper come season's end.
On another, more critical note, Calgary's EXPECTED hart candidate, Jarome Iginla, has a total of 3 points in the last 8 games...all of which came in the New Jersey/Calgary contest. Creatures named Huselius and Langkow have more points than Iggy over that span. Hell, a creature named Stoll on the Oilers has more points on the season than the Flames $7 million dollar man. Despite all of his leadership and toughness and grit and work, I submit that this is unexceptable. Iginla is a two-time Rocket Richard winner and, at 28, is entering the prime of his career. The erasure of the red-line and increased crack-down on obstruction has emancipated players like Jagr, Forsberg and Alfredsson, but seems to have had little effect on Jarome. Iginla's been the deciding factor in a few victories this year (3-2 over Minny and 4-1 over Jersey come to mind), but he's been conspicuously absent from the scoresheet far more frequently. Is it fair to critisize Iginla when he's leading a team that's 10 games above .500 in points? Maybe not. However, consider that he is currently 57th in the league in terms of overall scoring and around 40th in terms of goal production. Petr Prucha and Nathan Horton have more goals than Iggy. Have you been wondering why the Flames are the second worst goal scoring team in the NHL? Look no further. Being one of the top 5 paid athletes in the league, Jarome's performance so far this season has been, overall, subpar. Of course, the first person to admit this would be Iginla himself, no doubt...
The good news for Flames fans is: the team is winning anyways. The other (potential) good news is Jarome's penchant for 2nd half scoring. Which begs the question how good would (will?) Calgary be if Jarome was scoring? Perhaps we'll find out...
On another, more critical note, Calgary's EXPECTED hart candidate, Jarome Iginla, has a total of 3 points in the last 8 games...all of which came in the New Jersey/Calgary contest. Creatures named Huselius and Langkow have more points than Iggy over that span. Hell, a creature named Stoll on the Oilers has more points on the season than the Flames $7 million dollar man. Despite all of his leadership and toughness and grit and work, I submit that this is unexceptable. Iginla is a two-time Rocket Richard winner and, at 28, is entering the prime of his career. The erasure of the red-line and increased crack-down on obstruction has emancipated players like Jagr, Forsberg and Alfredsson, but seems to have had little effect on Jarome. Iginla's been the deciding factor in a few victories this year (3-2 over Minny and 4-1 over Jersey come to mind), but he's been conspicuously absent from the scoresheet far more frequently. Is it fair to critisize Iginla when he's leading a team that's 10 games above .500 in points? Maybe not. However, consider that he is currently 57th in the league in terms of overall scoring and around 40th in terms of goal production. Petr Prucha and Nathan Horton have more goals than Iggy. Have you been wondering why the Flames are the second worst goal scoring team in the NHL? Look no further. Being one of the top 5 paid athletes in the league, Jarome's performance so far this season has been, overall, subpar. Of course, the first person to admit this would be Iginla himself, no doubt...
The good news for Flames fans is: the team is winning anyways. The other (potential) good news is Jarome's penchant for 2nd half scoring. Which begs the question how good would (will?) Calgary be if Jarome was scoring? Perhaps we'll find out...
Wednesday, December 14, 2005
Goalies-A-Goings-On
The NHL is currently rife with goaltender-based intrigue. Recently, the Vancouver Canucks learned that their #1 puck-stopper, Dan Cloutier, will be shelved due to a torn MCL for the rest of the regular season. In addition, the falling star of Patrick Lalime contiuned to tumble when the much maligned St. Louis Blues put him on waivers and assigned him to their farm club. Atlanta continues to struggle thanks to multiple goalie injuries, and the Oilers seem to have a crease crowded by pad and masks now that Conklin has returned. Colorado has also suffered through goalie-based misery this season. The Avs had to turn to third-stringer Vitaly Kolesnik recently in the face of inconsistent play by both Aebischer and Budaj. Even the Red Wings are having issues without the services of Manny Legace (see last nights 7-6 loss to Atlanta for proof). Not to mention the recent demotion of Thibault in Pittsburgh. Oh...and is Nashville in trouble without Vokoun and Mason (the latter of which was injured during warm-ups last night)? You bet. Lost 7-3 against Florida!
What does this all mean? Probably a sellers-market when it comes to goalie-flesh...consider that the following teams are most likely "buyers":
- Colorado
- Vancouver
- Atlanta
- Edmonton
- Pittsburgh
sellers?...
- Buffalo...um...
- Minnesota...maybe...
- Florida (Keenan factor)
That's about all I can think of. There's also some free radicals to add to the mix:
- Lalime
- Thibault
Both are ex-number one 'tender's that are high-risk/high reward type gambles if a team is willing ( or desperate enough) to take the plunge. Neither one was excpetional (or even good) for the teams they started the year with. The question is, therefore, are they washed up? Or victim's of circumstance? Considering the lax defense in both St. Louis and Pittsburgh, it's hard to say for certain.
What does this all mean? Chaos in the crease, basically. How it all plays out over the next few months should be very interesting...
(PS- On a purely selfish note, it fills me with a tad bit of glee to see 3 of Calgary's NW Division adversaries in the above "buyers" list...)
What does this all mean? Probably a sellers-market when it comes to goalie-flesh...consider that the following teams are most likely "buyers":
- Colorado
- Vancouver
- Atlanta
- Edmonton
- Pittsburgh
sellers?...
- Buffalo...um...
- Minnesota...maybe...
- Florida (Keenan factor)
That's about all I can think of. There's also some free radicals to add to the mix:
- Lalime
- Thibault
Both are ex-number one 'tender's that are high-risk/high reward type gambles if a team is willing ( or desperate enough) to take the plunge. Neither one was excpetional (or even good) for the teams they started the year with. The question is, therefore, are they washed up? Or victim's of circumstance? Considering the lax defense in both St. Louis and Pittsburgh, it's hard to say for certain.
What does this all mean? Chaos in the crease, basically. How it all plays out over the next few months should be very interesting...
(PS- On a purely selfish note, it fills me with a tad bit of glee to see 3 of Calgary's NW Division adversaries in the above "buyers" list...)
Monday, December 12, 2005
Welcome to the NW Division
I have to admit I was pretty stunned when Langkow potted the winner in overtime against the Senators on Saturday night. I was pretty satisfied that the Flames were able to hold the Senators to such a low scoring game into the third period...the tie and then the win were definately "cherry on top" kind of additions. More impressively than simply winning the game, Calgary also established some "firsts":
- First loss for back-up goalie Ray Emery.
- First back-to-back losses for the Senators this season.
- Lowest shot total by Ottawa this season (21).
The Flames probably took advantage of a tired Senators squad, a consequence of their SO loss against the Canucks the night before. It is significant, however, that Calgary was able to TAKE ADVANTAGE. In addition, both teams were missing some key bodies from the line-up: Redden and Havlat for Ottawa and Hamrlik and Lombardi for Calgary. Top defensmen and 2nd liners for both teams (granted, Havlat would be a first liner on most other teams).
I have to say that Marchment was surprisingly good in his role as 6th d-man last Saturday. He was steady and dependable. In fact, considering their thin blueline, Im rather surprised that Toronto let "Mush" go at the start of the season. Oh well. Our gain and all that.
Anyways, the P&N lists:
Positives:
- Defeat the mighty Ottawa Senators. See above for other notables regarding this feat.
- Decent PK. High powered senators manage only 1 PP goal on 8 attempts.
- Shean Donovan. That's right, he's in the "positives" section. Incredible pass to set-up the tying goal. Probably his best game of the year.
- Damond Langkow. The hottest flame right now. Only 5 points behind Jarome Iginla for team lead. Scored his 4th GWG.
- Bryan Marchment. Stepped into the line-up without missing a beat.
- Tony Amonte. Scores 400th career goal to tie the game.
- Outshoot the Senators 11-2 in the 3rd period.
Negatives:
- 8 Penalties taken. Continue to take too many penalties on a nightly basis.
- Lacklustre 2nd period. Couldn't get much of anything going in the 2nd frame. Had me thinking we were out of it.
- PP fails again. 0-5.
That's about it, I think. I recorded the game and am going to watch it again tonight. On saturday I watched the contest at a downtown pub with some friends...my enjoyment of the game was therefore sullied by drunken and obnoxious pub denizens and endless juke-box tunes. Not to mention uncomfortable and inconvenient seating. Oh well. It was almost worth sharing the game winning cheer with the gathered crowd when Langkow scored in overtime. Almost.
Next up...a much needed week off and then a date with the Bruins.
- First loss for back-up goalie Ray Emery.
- First back-to-back losses for the Senators this season.
- Lowest shot total by Ottawa this season (21).
The Flames probably took advantage of a tired Senators squad, a consequence of their SO loss against the Canucks the night before. It is significant, however, that Calgary was able to TAKE ADVANTAGE. In addition, both teams were missing some key bodies from the line-up: Redden and Havlat for Ottawa and Hamrlik and Lombardi for Calgary. Top defensmen and 2nd liners for both teams (granted, Havlat would be a first liner on most other teams).
I have to say that Marchment was surprisingly good in his role as 6th d-man last Saturday. He was steady and dependable. In fact, considering their thin blueline, Im rather surprised that Toronto let "Mush" go at the start of the season. Oh well. Our gain and all that.
Anyways, the P&N lists:
Positives:
- Defeat the mighty Ottawa Senators. See above for other notables regarding this feat.
- Decent PK. High powered senators manage only 1 PP goal on 8 attempts.
- Shean Donovan. That's right, he's in the "positives" section. Incredible pass to set-up the tying goal. Probably his best game of the year.
- Damond Langkow. The hottest flame right now. Only 5 points behind Jarome Iginla for team lead. Scored his 4th GWG.
- Bryan Marchment. Stepped into the line-up without missing a beat.
- Tony Amonte. Scores 400th career goal to tie the game.
- Outshoot the Senators 11-2 in the 3rd period.
Negatives:
- 8 Penalties taken. Continue to take too many penalties on a nightly basis.
- Lacklustre 2nd period. Couldn't get much of anything going in the 2nd frame. Had me thinking we were out of it.
- PP fails again. 0-5.
That's about it, I think. I recorded the game and am going to watch it again tonight. On saturday I watched the contest at a downtown pub with some friends...my enjoyment of the game was therefore sullied by drunken and obnoxious pub denizens and endless juke-box tunes. Not to mention uncomfortable and inconvenient seating. Oh well. It was almost worth sharing the game winning cheer with the gathered crowd when Langkow scored in overtime. Almost.
Next up...a much needed week off and then a date with the Bruins.
Sunday, December 11, 2005
Friday, December 09, 2005
I've been curiously lacking in motivation to post anything the last few days. However, I will add a quick something about the Flames victory over the Devils on Wednesday night...
It was a rather odd game. Reminded me of so many Turek-backed Flames losses from a few years ago, except it was the Devils suffering at the hands of bad bounces and questionable goaltending. Besides winning and claiming 7 of a possible 10 points from the roadtrip, the primary source of good news from the NJ win was, of course, Jarome finding the scoresheet again. His inability to finish over the 9 game drought was starting to worry. Granted, his second goal was a lucky bounce and his first hardly a thing of beauty - but if that's what it takes to get Iggy back on track...then so be it. The primary source of bad news from last game was, of course, the injury sustained by Roman Hamrlik. Some reports out of www.tsn.ca today suggest that he has a sprained MCL and will be out of action for a couple fo weeks. Luckily, the Flames will enjoy a week of rest after their weekend match against the Senators, meaning Hamrlik won't miss that many games. As for the Senators game, Lombardi is a possible line-up insertion, as well as Marchment who will be added to fill Roman's roster spot...and now a little o' the P&N...
Positives:
- 4 goals for in one game!
- 3 PP goals, including Phaneuf's game winner. Yay!
- Great PK again, allowing only 1 goal on 10 opportunities.
- Jarome Iginla with a 3 point night. Hopefully this jars him back into form.
- Damond Langkow with another 2 point night. Now sits 2nd on the team in scoring and has amassed 6 points in the last 4 games.
- Andrew Ference steps up and plays top minutes after Hamrlik gets injured. Starting to play like I thought he could.
- Philipe Sauve. Looked very comfortable stopping 31 shots. Calgary seems to have a decent 1-2 punch in goal.
Negatives:
- Jason Wiemer. Took 4 penalties all by himself. Will not be in the line-up against Ottawa on Saturday. Or perhaps ever again.
- Another 10 penalties against. Way, way too many.
- Chris Simon. Fell down a lot and took a really stupid penalty early in the game. Bah.
- Roman Hamrlik injured. Calgary loses one of it's top 3 d-men for a few weeks.
- Reinprecht seemed incredibly ineffective on this night.
- Jordan Leopold. Doesn't seem to know his role on the team anymore. Looks rather uncomfortable.
- Shean Donovan doesn't score. Again.
That's about it. Next up is the much anticipated game against the Senators!
It was a rather odd game. Reminded me of so many Turek-backed Flames losses from a few years ago, except it was the Devils suffering at the hands of bad bounces and questionable goaltending. Besides winning and claiming 7 of a possible 10 points from the roadtrip, the primary source of good news from the NJ win was, of course, Jarome finding the scoresheet again. His inability to finish over the 9 game drought was starting to worry. Granted, his second goal was a lucky bounce and his first hardly a thing of beauty - but if that's what it takes to get Iggy back on track...then so be it. The primary source of bad news from last game was, of course, the injury sustained by Roman Hamrlik. Some reports out of www.tsn.ca today suggest that he has a sprained MCL and will be out of action for a couple fo weeks. Luckily, the Flames will enjoy a week of rest after their weekend match against the Senators, meaning Hamrlik won't miss that many games. As for the Senators game, Lombardi is a possible line-up insertion, as well as Marchment who will be added to fill Roman's roster spot...and now a little o' the P&N...
Positives:
- 4 goals for in one game!
- 3 PP goals, including Phaneuf's game winner. Yay!
- Great PK again, allowing only 1 goal on 10 opportunities.
- Jarome Iginla with a 3 point night. Hopefully this jars him back into form.
- Damond Langkow with another 2 point night. Now sits 2nd on the team in scoring and has amassed 6 points in the last 4 games.
- Andrew Ference steps up and plays top minutes after Hamrlik gets injured. Starting to play like I thought he could.
- Philipe Sauve. Looked very comfortable stopping 31 shots. Calgary seems to have a decent 1-2 punch in goal.
Negatives:
- Jason Wiemer. Took 4 penalties all by himself. Will not be in the line-up against Ottawa on Saturday. Or perhaps ever again.
- Another 10 penalties against. Way, way too many.
- Chris Simon. Fell down a lot and took a really stupid penalty early in the game. Bah.
- Roman Hamrlik injured. Calgary loses one of it's top 3 d-men for a few weeks.
- Reinprecht seemed incredibly ineffective on this night.
- Jordan Leopold. Doesn't seem to know his role on the team anymore. Looks rather uncomfortable.
- Shean Donovan doesn't score. Again.
That's about it. Next up is the much anticipated game against the Senators!
Wednesday, December 07, 2005
Another game...another round of "make the opposing goalie look like a star."
It's almost become a foregone conclusion that the Flames will lose to a team that is lacking their top players due to injury. Every pre-game where it's mentioned that a Calgary opponent has lost a top forward, defensman or goalie (in the case of last night, all three), the Flames fail to take advantage. No Federov or Getzlaff vs. the Ducks? Loss. No Pronger or #1 (0r #2) goalie against Edmonton? Loss. No Gaborik or Koivu against the Wild? Loss. Sharks lacking Nabokov? Loss. And now add Philly without Forsberg, Esche, Primeau and Pitkanen. Perhaps the most damning aspect of last night's loss was the fact that Calgary was out-played by a debilitated squad to the tune of being outshot 37-28. Not to mention the fact that the Flames failed to score a single goal for the second time on this road trip. AArrghhh...
Positives:
- Kiprusoff.
- Kiprusoff.
- Kiprusoff.
- Some good physical play from Hamrlik and Phaneuf.
Negatives:
- Another game, another bunch of missed opportunities. 0-6 on the PP (vs. worst PK in the league) and 0 goals for on 28 shots.
- Calgary's inability to win puck battles and forecheck effectiviely (especially on the PP) last night was glaring and attrocious.
- Jarome Iginla. 9 games, 3 assists. Squandered another break-away in the dying minutes last night. Also, fanned on a glorious scoring chance in overtime. His was the lamest shot for the Flames during the shot-out as well. Has gone from struggling to downright snake-bitten.
- The Flames lose to a Flyers squad almost cut in half. One can only imagine what the outcome might have been given the presence of Forsberg, Pitkanen, Primeau and Esche.
Tonight is the conclusion of the roadtrip as Calgary heads into New Jersey. The Devils are sporting a newly re-juvenated offense and, of course, Martin Brodeur. They recently embarrassed Tampa Bay 8-2. The Flames will be playing Sauve after Kipper's exhaustive performance last night, and will be looking to score some goals at least - if not win the game.
Positives:
- Kiprusoff.
- Kiprusoff.
- Kiprusoff.
- Some good physical play from Hamrlik and Phaneuf.
Negatives:
- Another game, another bunch of missed opportunities. 0-6 on the PP (vs. worst PK in the league) and 0 goals for on 28 shots.
- Calgary's inability to win puck battles and forecheck effectiviely (especially on the PP) last night was glaring and attrocious.
- Jarome Iginla. 9 games, 3 assists. Squandered another break-away in the dying minutes last night. Also, fanned on a glorious scoring chance in overtime. His was the lamest shot for the Flames during the shot-out as well. Has gone from struggling to downright snake-bitten.
- The Flames lose to a Flyers squad almost cut in half. One can only imagine what the outcome might have been given the presence of Forsberg, Pitkanen, Primeau and Esche.
Tonight is the conclusion of the roadtrip as Calgary heads into New Jersey. The Devils are sporting a newly re-juvenated offense and, of course, Martin Brodeur. They recently embarrassed Tampa Bay 8-2. The Flames will be playing Sauve after Kipper's exhaustive performance last night, and will be looking to score some goals at least - if not win the game.
Tuesday, December 06, 2005
Canadian Olympic Team Predictions
Everyone is eagerly awaiting the Canadian Olympic roster that will be announced on the 21st. So, it would make sense for some people to predict who will be on the team. Here are my choices:
Goaltenders:
Martin Brodeur (NJD)
Roberto Luongo (FLA)
Curtis Joseph (PHO)
Defencemen:
Chris Pronger (EDM)
Rob Blake (COL)
Scott Niedermayer (ANA)
Adam Foote (CLS)
Ed Jovanovski (VAN)
Wade Redden (OTT)
Robyn Regehr (CGY)
Forwards:
Jason Spezza (OTT)
Dany Heatley (OTT)
Joe Thornton (SJS)
Simon Gagne (PHI)
Joe Sakic (COL)
Jarome Iginla (CGY)
Vincent Lecavalier (TBL)
Sidney Crosby (PIT)
Mario Lemieux (PIT)
Brad Richards (TBL)
Shane Doan (PHO)
Ryan Smyth (EDM)
Eric Staal (CAR)
Wow, that took some serious thinking. It's true when they say we can probably put out two competitive teams. We are that stacked!
Goaltenders:
Martin Brodeur (NJD)
Roberto Luongo (FLA)
Curtis Joseph (PHO)
Defencemen:
Chris Pronger (EDM)
Rob Blake (COL)
Scott Niedermayer (ANA)
Adam Foote (CLS)
Ed Jovanovski (VAN)
Wade Redden (OTT)
Robyn Regehr (CGY)
Forwards:
Jason Spezza (OTT)
Dany Heatley (OTT)
Joe Thornton (SJS)
Simon Gagne (PHI)
Joe Sakic (COL)
Jarome Iginla (CGY)
Vincent Lecavalier (TBL)
Sidney Crosby (PIT)
Mario Lemieux (PIT)
Brad Richards (TBL)
Shane Doan (PHO)
Ryan Smyth (EDM)
Eric Staal (CAR)
Wow, that took some serious thinking. It's true when they say we can probably put out two competitive teams. We are that stacked!
Penn. State Update
Watched the Flames narrowly defeat the Penguins on Saturday night. Was the Nilson goal actually a goal? Not sure. Did the Penguins almost tie it up at the end of regulation? You bet. Should the game have been even close by that time?...NO WAY. Let's pretend the Nilson goal wasn't a goal and the game ended up 2-2 (plus overtime/shootout, etc.). In this scenario, every single Calgary fan would no doubt be looking back with remorse and sadness at the half dozen high quality scoring chances wasted by the Flames over the course of contest. Let's make a list:
- Due to an agressive forecheck, Calgary ends up with a 2on0 deep in the Penguins zone. The puck is fed in front to Simon who promptly shoots it into MAF's pads.
- Newcomer and saviour on the night Huselius feeds Iginla in the deep slot for a glorious opportunity. Again, the puck is directed harmlessly into the Penguins goalie.
- Iginla emerges from the penalty box to find the puck, Shean Donovan and open ice between him and the Penguins zone. They break in, and Jarome decides to pass to Donovan, who has all of one goal this year. The puck is awkwardly bashed wide of the net.
- Iginla breaks in on a partial break-away, but his back-hand is turned aside.
- Kobasew uses his speed to create a partial break-away. His backhand goes off the toe of MAF's skate and wide.
- Iginla breaks in on a completely open break-away, dekes MAF outright...and then shoots the puck wide of the open net.
- Iginla is the beneficiary of a brutal Lemieux giveaway in the Penguins zone. He blasts the puck at the net. It finds its way through MAF, but bounces harmlessly around in the crease before being cleared away.
Yup, that's right. Calgary had no less than 1 open breakaway, 2 partial break-aways and two 2on0's. And scored on exactly NONE of them...
So, I ask you...is this a good thing or a bad thing? Should I be happy that the Flames were able to generate so many scoring opportunities? Or worried that they couldn't finish them? Is it good that they won despite lack of finish, or just fortunate? I guess we'll see...
Positives and Negatives time...
Positives:
- Great first contest for Huselius. 3 Assists and seemed to generate some chemistry with Langkow. Speaking of which...
- Langkow with 2 goals, including the game winner. Now has 4 points in 2 games and is second on the team in points with 19.
- Robyn Regehr. 2 assists and hard-nosed defensive-play set the tone.
- Jarome Iginla. Both a positive and a negative. Created more chances to score in this game than he had in the previous five combined.
- Penalty Killing. Managed to hold the Penguins PP to 1-10.
Negatives:
- Lack of finish. See above. The game should have been a romp in favor of Calgary but ended up being a nail-biter.
- Jarome Iginla. Can't score on 3 break-aways and 2 other glorious opportunities. Should have had a 4 goal night (at least). Stuck in neutral with 3 points in 8 games.
- Jordan Leopold continues to struggle offense-wise. Huselius and Leopold have the same offensive stats with the Flames - 3 assists. Difference is, the former has only played one game for Calgary.
- Chris Simon muffs a 2on0. Only 6 points all year.
- Shean Donovan. Can't put the puck in the ocean right now.
- Powerplay. Still relatively toothless. 1-7 against the Penguins, the 28th ranked PK in the league.
The Flames meet the Flyers tonight in Philadelphia. This will NOT be the high powered Philadelphia team that has generated 101 goals in 25 games so far. Tonight, the Flames meet a Flyers team lacking their top center (Forsberg), top defenseman (Pitkanen) and number one goalie (Esche). While this all sounds like good news, keep in mind this year's Flames team has been unable to take advantage of opposition teams lacking their best players. See earlier losses to Minnesota, Anaheim and San Jose for proof. That said, perhaps tonight will be the night that the Flames reverse this lamentable tendency and take advantage of a debilitated Flyers club to come away with a victory.
- Due to an agressive forecheck, Calgary ends up with a 2on0 deep in the Penguins zone. The puck is fed in front to Simon who promptly shoots it into MAF's pads.
- Newcomer and saviour on the night Huselius feeds Iginla in the deep slot for a glorious opportunity. Again, the puck is directed harmlessly into the Penguins goalie.
- Iginla emerges from the penalty box to find the puck, Shean Donovan and open ice between him and the Penguins zone. They break in, and Jarome decides to pass to Donovan, who has all of one goal this year. The puck is awkwardly bashed wide of the net.
- Iginla breaks in on a partial break-away, but his back-hand is turned aside.
- Kobasew uses his speed to create a partial break-away. His backhand goes off the toe of MAF's skate and wide.
- Iginla breaks in on a completely open break-away, dekes MAF outright...and then shoots the puck wide of the open net.
- Iginla is the beneficiary of a brutal Lemieux giveaway in the Penguins zone. He blasts the puck at the net. It finds its way through MAF, but bounces harmlessly around in the crease before being cleared away.
Yup, that's right. Calgary had no less than 1 open breakaway, 2 partial break-aways and two 2on0's. And scored on exactly NONE of them...
So, I ask you...is this a good thing or a bad thing? Should I be happy that the Flames were able to generate so many scoring opportunities? Or worried that they couldn't finish them? Is it good that they won despite lack of finish, or just fortunate? I guess we'll see...
Positives and Negatives time...
Positives:
- Great first contest for Huselius. 3 Assists and seemed to generate some chemistry with Langkow. Speaking of which...
- Langkow with 2 goals, including the game winner. Now has 4 points in 2 games and is second on the team in points with 19.
- Robyn Regehr. 2 assists and hard-nosed defensive-play set the tone.
- Jarome Iginla. Both a positive and a negative. Created more chances to score in this game than he had in the previous five combined.
- Penalty Killing. Managed to hold the Penguins PP to 1-10.
Negatives:
- Lack of finish. See above. The game should have been a romp in favor of Calgary but ended up being a nail-biter.
- Jarome Iginla. Can't score on 3 break-aways and 2 other glorious opportunities. Should have had a 4 goal night (at least). Stuck in neutral with 3 points in 8 games.
- Jordan Leopold continues to struggle offense-wise. Huselius and Leopold have the same offensive stats with the Flames - 3 assists. Difference is, the former has only played one game for Calgary.
- Chris Simon muffs a 2on0. Only 6 points all year.
- Shean Donovan. Can't put the puck in the ocean right now.
- Powerplay. Still relatively toothless. 1-7 against the Penguins, the 28th ranked PK in the league.
The Flames meet the Flyers tonight in Philadelphia. This will NOT be the high powered Philadelphia team that has generated 101 goals in 25 games so far. Tonight, the Flames meet a Flyers team lacking their top center (Forsberg), top defenseman (Pitkanen) and number one goalie (Esche). While this all sounds like good news, keep in mind this year's Flames team has been unable to take advantage of opposition teams lacking their best players. See earlier losses to Minnesota, Anaheim and San Jose for proof. That said, perhaps tonight will be the night that the Flames reverse this lamentable tendency and take advantage of a debilitated Flyers club to come away with a victory.
Friday, December 02, 2005
Calgary Huselius
The Flames apparently pulled off a somewhat surprising trade today sending Montador (and prospect) to Florida for Kristian Huselius.
story---->here.
Im hoping Sutter can motivate the talented (but defensively-challenged) Swede to play up to his potential. If not, we may just end up with another underachieving, snake-bitten forward.
This recent acquisition sure does confuse the line combinations. Especially with the imminent return of Lombardi. We now have Iginla, Kobasew, Reinprecht, Langkow, Amonte, Lombardi and Huselius as pontential 1st/2nd liners (not to mention Simon and McCarty, who have both drawn some top-2-line-time this season). In addition, Calgary has Donovan, Yelle, Nilson, Ritchie, Macdonald, Simon, McCarty and Wiemer to fill out the final 2 lines. That's 15 forwards for 12 positions (14 until Lombo retruns). I guess there'll be 3 scratches every night. Until we can fool someone into taking Wiemer off our hands, that is.
As for the top 2 lines, does anyone want to hazard a guess as to what they'll be? Sutter mixes and matches so much each game, Im not even certain what they are right now, frankly...
Other NHL news:
- Of course, the Boston and San Jose trade. The early result is an unlikely 3-0 Boston victory over the Sens last night, with Sturm acquiring 2 points (goal and assist). Don't think anyone predicted that Heatley would have his point streak snapped by Boston.
- How's this for appropriate? The Blues scorers in their win over the BJ's last night included: Weight, Wideman and Tkachuck!
- Iginla's not the only big name player not scoring...apparently Lemieux is mired in the worst slump of his career with no goals in 7 games. Mario might just be getting too old for this game...Corsby's been held pointless over the last 3 games as well. Hopefully the Flames can help extend all of these streaks (besides Iginla's) with a win over the flightless birds on Saturday night.
story---->here.
Im hoping Sutter can motivate the talented (but defensively-challenged) Swede to play up to his potential. If not, we may just end up with another underachieving, snake-bitten forward.
This recent acquisition sure does confuse the line combinations. Especially with the imminent return of Lombardi. We now have Iginla, Kobasew, Reinprecht, Langkow, Amonte, Lombardi and Huselius as pontential 1st/2nd liners (not to mention Simon and McCarty, who have both drawn some top-2-line-time this season). In addition, Calgary has Donovan, Yelle, Nilson, Ritchie, Macdonald, Simon, McCarty and Wiemer to fill out the final 2 lines. That's 15 forwards for 12 positions (14 until Lombo retruns). I guess there'll be 3 scratches every night. Until we can fool someone into taking Wiemer off our hands, that is.
As for the top 2 lines, does anyone want to hazard a guess as to what they'll be? Sutter mixes and matches so much each game, Im not even certain what they are right now, frankly...
Other NHL news:
- Of course, the Boston and San Jose trade. The early result is an unlikely 3-0 Boston victory over the Sens last night, with Sturm acquiring 2 points (goal and assist). Don't think anyone predicted that Heatley would have his point streak snapped by Boston.
- How's this for appropriate? The Blues scorers in their win over the BJ's last night included: Weight, Wideman and Tkachuck!
- Iginla's not the only big name player not scoring...apparently Lemieux is mired in the worst slump of his career with no goals in 7 games. Mario might just be getting too old for this game...Corsby's been held pointless over the last 3 games as well. Hopefully the Flames can help extend all of these streaks (besides Iginla's) with a win over the flightless birds on Saturday night.
Comeback Win and More
Calgary decided to replay their last win over Detroit last night by falling behind early and then dominating the rest of the game. the Flames finally got some bounces around the net, enabling them to score 3(!) whole goals over the course of the evening. Of course, if Shean Donovan didn't have a Buick sized monkey on his back, his late third period penalty-shot could have made it 4-2. Oh well. A win is a win. Some other interesting news is afoot, so let's get to the Positives and Negatives:
Positives:
- 2 points for Kobasew and a first star selection. Sounded like he lead the team last night.
- 2 point game for Langkow. I know, I can't believe it either.
- Tony Amonte with game-clinching break-away goal. Clutch.
- Come from behind victory against one of the best teams in the league. Always good news.
- Dominating 2nd period to the tune of outshooting Detroit 18-5. Shots were 36- 21 overall.
- Ference has 2nd good performance in a row. +2 and 3 shots on net. Weird.
- Calgary actual beats a 3rd string goaltender. Yay!
Negatives:
- 2 PP goals against in the first period. Calgary sure loves to give the Red Wings the early advantage.
- Jarome Iginla. Stretched scoring slump to seven games with a 1 shot performance. Not terribly impressive.
- Jordan Leopold. Not sure if he was hurt or just benched. Played all of 11 minutes in the game total. Still only 3 points on the season.
- Shean Donovan. About as offensively effective as Peca. Couldn't score on his own net right now.
- Chris Simon. Can't seem to get anything going.
Next up - Pittsburgh!
Positives:
- 2 points for Kobasew and a first star selection. Sounded like he lead the team last night.
- 2 point game for Langkow. I know, I can't believe it either.
- Tony Amonte with game-clinching break-away goal. Clutch.
- Come from behind victory against one of the best teams in the league. Always good news.
- Dominating 2nd period to the tune of outshooting Detroit 18-5. Shots were 36- 21 overall.
- Ference has 2nd good performance in a row. +2 and 3 shots on net. Weird.
- Calgary actual beats a 3rd string goaltender. Yay!
Negatives:
- 2 PP goals against in the first period. Calgary sure loves to give the Red Wings the early advantage.
- Jarome Iginla. Stretched scoring slump to seven games with a 1 shot performance. Not terribly impressive.
- Jordan Leopold. Not sure if he was hurt or just benched. Played all of 11 minutes in the game total. Still only 3 points on the season.
- Shean Donovan. About as offensively effective as Peca. Couldn't score on his own net right now.
- Chris Simon. Can't seem to get anything going.
Next up - Pittsburgh!
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