Besides a tied series, the Flame's loss to the Ducks yielded a couple of controversies as well...
For the rest of Metrognome's bitter rantings, click here.
Friday, April 28, 2006
Thursday, April 27, 2006
Cripple the Quackers!
Chance for the Flames to deal a crippling blow to the Ducks tonight...Go here for Metrognome's set-up of game 4.
Wednesday, April 26, 2006
Smarter Not Harder
That's more like it!
The Flames burned the Duck's last night...
Metrognome's take on the Flame's victory is here.
The Flames burned the Duck's last night...
Metrognome's take on the Flame's victory is here.
Tuesday, April 25, 2006
The Bell Tolls...for Crawford
Not surprisingly, Marc Crawford was axed by the Canucks today...
TSN story here.
Any guesses on the potential replacement?
TSN story here.
Any guesses on the potential replacement?
Round-up Review
I figured I'd go "macro" for a bit and focus on all of the various play-off series going on...
To waste some of your valuable time, click.
To waste some of your valuable time, click.
Monday, April 24, 2006
Play-off Pool Picks
Time for a little self-indulgence...
Go here to laugh at Metrognome's fantasy play-off picks and strategems...
Go here to laugh at Metrognome's fantasy play-off picks and strategems...
Flames vs. Ducks - Game Two Review
Looks like the Flames forgot how to play the kind of hockey that got them to the play-offs in the first place yesterday...
For the rest of Metrognome's recap, go here.
For the rest of Metrognome's recap, go here.
Saturday, April 22, 2006
Flames vs. Ducks - Game One Review
I'd be lying if I said I was satisfied with last night's game...
find the rest of Metrognome's review here.
find the rest of Metrognome's review here.
Friday, April 21, 2006
Ducky Distraction
Flames Fans - Restless before the big game tonight? Amuse yourself here with this aptly symbolic golden oldy.
The Dion Underneath Your Bed
Three guesses as to who Pierre McGuire picked as his "Monster Performer" of the year...
(Hint - it's not Chris Pronger).
Link.
(Hint - it's not Chris Pronger).
Link.
Thursday, April 20, 2006
Say Goodbye Quinn..."Goodbye Quinn".
I don't post much (or at all) but after hearing about the dismissal of Pat Quinn today, I had to rejoice by posting the link to the article to share my joy of Quinn's firing.
Article from TSN can be found here
Article from TSN can be found here
Wednesday, April 19, 2006
Flames - A Year in Review
I figured a regular season wrap-up was in order before the inevitable Calgary/Anaheim play-off preview. So, without further foreplay...
For the complete article by Metrognome Click Here
For the complete article by Metrognome Click Here
Tuesday, April 18, 2006
Upon Closer Inspection...
I was taking a look at the Colorado/Edmonton stats from last night's contest...
For the complete article by Metrognome Click Here
For the complete article by Metrognome Click Here
Western Play-off Preview...
With the season basically over and the Western Conference standings firmly established, I figured a "play-off round 1 preview" was in order. Here are the western match-ups and how I see them playing out...
For the complete article by Metrognome Click Here
For the complete article by Metrognome Click Here
Monday, April 17, 2006
Every Ending is the Start of Something New
Flames versus the Ducks tonight in a potential first round preview - to a certain extent anyways....
For the complete article by Metrognome Click Here
For the complete article by Metrognome Click Here
Convert Heathens!
Just to add fodder to the claim that Calgary is nothing without Kipper, a New Religion has popped up at Calgarypuck.com.
Avert thine eyes Oilers fans!
Avert thine eyes Oilers fans!
Saturday, April 15, 2006
The Kings are Dead...Long Live the Kings!
The cheeky title above refers both to the demise of this evenings opponents play-off hopes as well as to Calgary's ascension to the NW Division throne (captured Thursday night in the victory over Colorado)...
For the complete article by Metrognome Click Here
For the complete article by Metrognome Click Here
Thursday, April 13, 2006
What's the Point...?
I'm going to forgo a Flame's game preview post for now. Instead, it's "criticize the murky editorial" time...
For the complete article by Metrognome Click Here
For the complete article by Metrognome Click Here
Hockey's "T.O."
Here's an interesting fact: jerks with small brains and big mouths don't do well in team sports.
Just ask Sean Avery.
Just ask Sean Avery.
Wednesday, April 12, 2006
Tuesday, April 11, 2006
100 and the Title...?
I've been rather busy the last couple of days. As a result, the blog has lacked a certain orginality and flair, Im sure. I apologize.
Let's start off by mocking the Vancouver Canucks...
For the complete article by Metrognome Click Here
Let's start off by mocking the Vancouver Canucks...
For the complete article by Metrognome Click Here
Monday, April 10, 2006
Back on the Dancefloor!!
To be as plain as possible - the Flames "got 'er done" during the weekend. Despite losing half a dozen regulars to injury and playing a bunch of games in a short span of time, Calgary managed to ensure a play-off berth for the second straight year!
The Minny game on Friday was everything I expected it to be: boring. Aside from the performances of Lombardi, Lundmark and Kipper plus the notable (fluke) ending of Amonte's scoreless streak, the Wild game was anything but...however, Iggy and crew got what they wanted, ultimately, so yay for that.
As for the Vancouver contest...I'll admit, I was pretty convinced that Calgary was done for in this one: 3rd game in 4 nights versus a rested and desperate team lacking a lot of your veterans typically = blowout loss. And after the first 2 periods, I was fairly certain I was right.
Wrong.
Thanks to the heroics of Kipper and Iginla, Calgary managed to claw back into the game and garner the play-off clinching point. The fact that we eventually lost this game doesn't bother me a whit - by all rights we shouldn't have been in it in the first place...
Positives and Negatives (combined)...
Positives:
- Play-offs! YEAAHHHH BABY!!
- Amonte finally scores. Although, really, Wes Walz scored with an Assist from Bones. But that's nit-picking.
- Lombardi/Lundmark/Amonte. By far the most dangerous forward unit against the Wild.
- Lundmark versus Minny. 2nd GWG in as many games.
- Jarome Iginla. Plays a ton and is a difference maker in the 3rd period against Vancouver.
- Mark Giordano (Canucks). The leading scorer on the farm stepped-up his play big time. Scored (assisted..?) the first Flames goal and had a number of big hits.
- Kiprusoff. Simply superhuman in both games.
- Byron Ritchie (Canucks). Tireless forchecker is finally rewarded with a (very important) goal.
Negatives:
- Thoroughly lack luster powerplay against Minny. 0-6 on the evening.
- Lack of killer instinct versus Wild. Lead most of the contest, but needed a last-minute goal to seal the deal.
- Dion Phaneuf/Roman Hamrlik (Wild). None too effective on the PP and allowed the Rolston shorthanded goal against.
- Discipline (Vancouver). Wayyyy too many penalties taken. Some of the calls were odd, but still need to find a way to stay out of the box. Fatigue probably a factor here, however.
- PK in Vancouver. fatigue and lack of Leo/Warrener were definate factors.
- Andrew Ference (Vancouver). On for all 3 opposition goals. Yup, again. *Sigh* Could have drawn assists on the first 2 Canucks tallies...oh, Leopold! How I miss thee and lament thy ailments!
The next goal facing the Flames is to clinch the division. Colorado helped out with that one a bit last night by losing to the Wild. Also, accoring to mudcrutches numbers, the Flames are a 92% lock to win the NW anyhow. Impressive!
Now we just need to get healthy before the first round starts...
The Minny game on Friday was everything I expected it to be: boring. Aside from the performances of Lombardi, Lundmark and Kipper plus the notable (fluke) ending of Amonte's scoreless streak, the Wild game was anything but...however, Iggy and crew got what they wanted, ultimately, so yay for that.
As for the Vancouver contest...I'll admit, I was pretty convinced that Calgary was done for in this one: 3rd game in 4 nights versus a rested and desperate team lacking a lot of your veterans typically = blowout loss. And after the first 2 periods, I was fairly certain I was right.
Wrong.
Thanks to the heroics of Kipper and Iginla, Calgary managed to claw back into the game and garner the play-off clinching point. The fact that we eventually lost this game doesn't bother me a whit - by all rights we shouldn't have been in it in the first place...
Positives and Negatives (combined)...
Positives:
- Play-offs! YEAAHHHH BABY!!
- Amonte finally scores. Although, really, Wes Walz scored with an Assist from Bones. But that's nit-picking.
- Lombardi/Lundmark/Amonte. By far the most dangerous forward unit against the Wild.
- Lundmark versus Minny. 2nd GWG in as many games.
- Jarome Iginla. Plays a ton and is a difference maker in the 3rd period against Vancouver.
- Mark Giordano (Canucks). The leading scorer on the farm stepped-up his play big time. Scored (assisted..?) the first Flames goal and had a number of big hits.
- Kiprusoff. Simply superhuman in both games.
- Byron Ritchie (Canucks). Tireless forchecker is finally rewarded with a (very important) goal.
Negatives:
- Thoroughly lack luster powerplay against Minny. 0-6 on the evening.
- Lack of killer instinct versus Wild. Lead most of the contest, but needed a last-minute goal to seal the deal.
- Dion Phaneuf/Roman Hamrlik (Wild). None too effective on the PP and allowed the Rolston shorthanded goal against.
- Discipline (Vancouver). Wayyyy too many penalties taken. Some of the calls were odd, but still need to find a way to stay out of the box. Fatigue probably a factor here, however.
- PK in Vancouver. fatigue and lack of Leo/Warrener were definate factors.
- Andrew Ference (Vancouver). On for all 3 opposition goals. Yup, again. *Sigh* Could have drawn assists on the first 2 Canucks tallies...oh, Leopold! How I miss thee and lament thy ailments!
The next goal facing the Flames is to clinch the division. Colorado helped out with that one a bit last night by losing to the Wild. Also, accoring to mudcrutches numbers, the Flames are a 92% lock to win the NW anyhow. Impressive!
Now we just need to get healthy before the first round starts...
Friday, April 07, 2006
Ruin the Ruiners
I'd be a liar if I told you I wasn't looking past tonight's game to tomorrow's HNIC date with Vancouver. With chance a to kill the Canuck's play-off dreams again, I just can't help myself.
Not that a win against the Wild this evening isn't important. It is. Until the play-offs are assured (along, perhaps, with the NW division) every point is precious. Which means I hope the players aren't thinking the way I am about the game tomorrow.
As for the Wild, their play-off hopes are all but gone. Instead, they are looking to play "Ruiner" (as Manny Fernandez put it) for all those Western teams still battling to make it to the dance. Something they did to a degree last night against the Oilers, with a little help from a mis-handled video replay.
As a result of the Oiler's S/O loss, marvel at the continuing Western log-jam here.
As you can see, the Canuck's play-off chances are growing dimmer. In contrast, if the Flames gather 3 points over the next 2 games, they'll be a lock for the post season and be within a mere skip and a jump away from the NW division banner. Yay!!
As for tonight, Mark Giordano has apparently been recalled from the farm. There's talk that both Leopold and Hulse are injured now (as well as nearly half the team it seems), which means, barring a return of Rhett Warrener, we may see both Giordano and Mush in the line-up tonight. Uh-oh...
On the positive side, it looks like Lundmark has recovered from his puffy-eye-thing and will draw back into the line-up. That will probably mean the exit of Lynn Loyns. Other "come back" potentials include Darren McCaty and Mike Leclerc, though it's fuzzy if that means they'll return against the Wild or the Canucks. Whatever happens, let's just pray Leopold isn't too badly hurt. Also, pray that the Flames continue to score like they have recently. The latter comment may not be related to the injury thing, but I thought I'd throw it in there.
If Calgary has anything going in their favor, it's that the Wild played a long, relatively hard fought game last night. Meaning they may be tired tonight. Not to mention the fact that the Flame's home record (27-7-4) is vastly superior to the Wild's road record (14-18-5). Yay!! (again)
Hopefully the Flames pull out two points today and set themselves up for an incredibly gratifying victory tomorrow night over the Canucks.
Go Flames Go!
Not that a win against the Wild this evening isn't important. It is. Until the play-offs are assured (along, perhaps, with the NW division) every point is precious. Which means I hope the players aren't thinking the way I am about the game tomorrow.
As for the Wild, their play-off hopes are all but gone. Instead, they are looking to play "Ruiner" (as Manny Fernandez put it) for all those Western teams still battling to make it to the dance. Something they did to a degree last night against the Oilers, with a little help from a mis-handled video replay.
As a result of the Oiler's S/O loss, marvel at the continuing Western log-jam here.
As you can see, the Canuck's play-off chances are growing dimmer. In contrast, if the Flames gather 3 points over the next 2 games, they'll be a lock for the post season and be within a mere skip and a jump away from the NW division banner. Yay!!
As for tonight, Mark Giordano has apparently been recalled from the farm. There's talk that both Leopold and Hulse are injured now (as well as nearly half the team it seems), which means, barring a return of Rhett Warrener, we may see both Giordano and Mush in the line-up tonight. Uh-oh...
On the positive side, it looks like Lundmark has recovered from his puffy-eye-thing and will draw back into the line-up. That will probably mean the exit of Lynn Loyns. Other "come back" potentials include Darren McCaty and Mike Leclerc, though it's fuzzy if that means they'll return against the Wild or the Canucks. Whatever happens, let's just pray Leopold isn't too badly hurt. Also, pray that the Flames continue to score like they have recently. The latter comment may not be related to the injury thing, but I thought I'd throw it in there.
If Calgary has anything going in their favor, it's that the Wild played a long, relatively hard fought game last night. Meaning they may be tired tonight. Not to mention the fact that the Flame's home record (27-7-4) is vastly superior to the Wild's road record (14-18-5). Yay!! (again)
Hopefully the Flames pull out two points today and set themselves up for an incredibly gratifying victory tomorrow night over the Canucks.
Go Flames Go!
Thursday, April 06, 2006
Mr. Sandman...Bring Me a Dream...
Besides the usual warm fuzzies that accompany a win, the Flame's also managed to hit a number of significant milestones yesterday:
- The Dion scored his 19th goal of the season, surpassing the previous franchise record for goals by a rookie defensemen set by Gary Suter.
- Kipper tied (with Vernon) the franchise record for wins by goalie in a single season (39).
- Beetlejuice recorded his 46th point of the season, besting his previous personal high of 45 (2001-2002 season). This despite having scored only 8 points in the first 24 games with Florida this year.
- The Flames garnered their 95th point of the year, beating last season's 94 point total with 6 games to play.
- And, not insignificantly, finally won a contest while I was in the 'Dome. It's been a LONG time.
Yup, this most recent victory was a beauty all around. I haven't even mentioned yet that with the Av's losing to the Sharks last night, Calgary stands 5 points clear for the NW division and the Canucks are currently outside of the play-off picture!
Don't wake me up if Im dreaming.
Positives:
- The offensive re-awakening continues. Another 3 goal win, another 3+ goal night. Calgary has managed to score 16 goals in their past 4 games.
- Powerplay. 3 for 8 on the evening. An added bonus - the PP actually looked like an NHL caliber unit against the unfortunate Coyotes. Also, all three goals were beauties (Phaneuf from the point, Iginla one-timer, Huselius/Langkow 2 on 1).
- Basically a lock to make the play-offs barring some total collapse by Calgary in concert with some incredibly improbable run by the Canucks or Sharks.
- Calgary's first line. The trio of Iginla, Huselius and Langkow looked downright dangerous last night. Langkow had an excellent game all around (2 assists) and has quietly gathered 12 points in his last 11 games.
- Dion Phaneuf. Pastes that pest Nash and scores another PP goal. Not to mention the record setting stuff.
- Miikka Kiprusoff. Wasn't terribly busy all night, but made one or two incredible saves at key times in the game.
- Deny Sauve and Rhino any kind of satisfaction by convincingly beating up on their new team.
- Andrew Ference. No major gaffes this night out and he stepped up in the third so Leo could rest his ailing groin.
Negatives:
- Penalty Killing. 2 for 6 on the night. Lombardi looked like a chicken with his head cut-off as the lone forward on the Coyotes 5 on 3 advantage.
- More injuries!! Kobasew didn't return after the 1st period thanks to an apparent "groin strain" and Leopold didn't play the third. No word on how serious either situation is.
- Officiating. A very minor complaint, but the "tripping" call on Phaneuf in the first period was absurd. Reinprecht (the "victim" on the play) wasn't tripped in that he didn't even fall down!
- Shean Donovan. Actually played a decent game (scored the 4th goal). However, both 'Yotes goals were scored with him in the box thanks to two needless hooking infractions.
Gonna be hard to top this game, methinks...course, should the Flame's beat Vancouver Saturday night and basically eliminate them from the play-0ffs (again), it could very well happen
- The Dion scored his 19th goal of the season, surpassing the previous franchise record for goals by a rookie defensemen set by Gary Suter.
- Kipper tied (with Vernon) the franchise record for wins by goalie in a single season (39).
- Beetlejuice recorded his 46th point of the season, besting his previous personal high of 45 (2001-2002 season). This despite having scored only 8 points in the first 24 games with Florida this year.
- The Flames garnered their 95th point of the year, beating last season's 94 point total with 6 games to play.
- And, not insignificantly, finally won a contest while I was in the 'Dome. It's been a LONG time.
Yup, this most recent victory was a beauty all around. I haven't even mentioned yet that with the Av's losing to the Sharks last night, Calgary stands 5 points clear for the NW division and the Canucks are currently outside of the play-off picture!
Don't wake me up if Im dreaming.
Positives:
- The offensive re-awakening continues. Another 3 goal win, another 3+ goal night. Calgary has managed to score 16 goals in their past 4 games.
- Powerplay. 3 for 8 on the evening. An added bonus - the PP actually looked like an NHL caliber unit against the unfortunate Coyotes. Also, all three goals were beauties (Phaneuf from the point, Iginla one-timer, Huselius/Langkow 2 on 1).
- Basically a lock to make the play-offs barring some total collapse by Calgary in concert with some incredibly improbable run by the Canucks or Sharks.
- Calgary's first line. The trio of Iginla, Huselius and Langkow looked downright dangerous last night. Langkow had an excellent game all around (2 assists) and has quietly gathered 12 points in his last 11 games.
- Dion Phaneuf. Pastes that pest Nash and scores another PP goal. Not to mention the record setting stuff.
- Miikka Kiprusoff. Wasn't terribly busy all night, but made one or two incredible saves at key times in the game.
- Deny Sauve and Rhino any kind of satisfaction by convincingly beating up on their new team.
- Andrew Ference. No major gaffes this night out and he stepped up in the third so Leo could rest his ailing groin.
Negatives:
- Penalty Killing. 2 for 6 on the night. Lombardi looked like a chicken with his head cut-off as the lone forward on the Coyotes 5 on 3 advantage.
- More injuries!! Kobasew didn't return after the 1st period thanks to an apparent "groin strain" and Leopold didn't play the third. No word on how serious either situation is.
- Officiating. A very minor complaint, but the "tripping" call on Phaneuf in the first period was absurd. Reinprecht (the "victim" on the play) wasn't tripped in that he didn't even fall down!
- Shean Donovan. Actually played a decent game (scored the 4th goal). However, both 'Yotes goals were scored with him in the box thanks to two needless hooking infractions.
Gonna be hard to top this game, methinks...course, should the Flame's beat Vancouver Saturday night and basically eliminate them from the play-0ffs (again), it could very well happen
The Curse is Broken!
Incredibly, the Flames won last night while I was in attendance. I can't honestly remember the last time that happened (2 previous games this season were losses to Nashville and LA in December).
Wrap-up later. For now, bask in the glow of mudcrutch's play-off probability table...
Wrap-up later. For now, bask in the glow of mudcrutch's play-off probability table...
Wednesday, April 05, 2006
Revenge of the Ex's?
Flames will be battling their ex-back-up and ex-centerman and the Phoenix Coyotes tonight in the 'Dome.
The two "former Flames" have had different levels of success since being dealt to 'Yotes - Sauve has remained the marginal back-up 'tender that he was in both Colorado and Calgary while Rhino has taken full advantage of his re-assignment, blossoming into the offensive threat everyone hoped he'd be here in Calgary. In fact, Reinprecht recently won offensive player of the week honors from the NHL.
Anyways, despite their humiliating 7-1 drubbing at the hands of the Oil Stains the other night, the Coyotes have put together a surprisingly decent run over the past 10 game (7-3-0). This suggests that:
a.) Phoenix might be playing "loose" and relaxed since their play-off hopes are all but extinguished and,
b.) Some of their newly acquired players might actually be helping the team out, unlike some other clubs that shall remain nameless (*AHEM* Vancouver).
Speaking of newly acquired, the Desert Dogs winger Oleg Kvasha won't be in the line-up tonight (or, indeed, for the rest of the season) according to TSN. While I dont think his lack will exactly hand the game over to Calgary, he has had 10 points for Phoenix since being dealt by the Islanders. So it's in no way a bad thing that he's injured.
So what might hand the game to the Flames? Word is, Sauve will be in the nets for the Coyotes tonight. While there is always the possibility that Sauve will be highly motivated to show-up the team that gave up on him, I consider it highly unlikely that he will out-duel Kiprusoff. Course, there's been other marginal back-ups we've had problems with this year, so I guess anything's possible.
As far as Flame's issues go, it sounds like a lot of their injured are almost ready to return. According to Peter Mahr this morning, Leopold, Lundmark and Warrener are all skating with the team. It would be exceedingly beneficial to Calgary if they could re-insert either Leo or Warrener or both back into the line-up. That would (probably) mean no more Mush hobbling around and the return of Ference to the 6th defenesman role (where is far more effective). There were no real indications if anyone will be returning for certain for the game tonight, so I guess we'll have to wait and see...
On the Line:
First in the NW and a play-off spot. Until Calgary passes that "96 point" threshold, every point is precious. In addition, the Flames can maintain or increase their 3 point bulge over the Avs with a win tonight.
So here's hoping the boys come out with a big effort this evening. Besides all the really important stuff listed above, we simply cannot lose to a team that Edmonton beat 7-1...
The two "former Flames" have had different levels of success since being dealt to 'Yotes - Sauve has remained the marginal back-up 'tender that he was in both Colorado and Calgary while Rhino has taken full advantage of his re-assignment, blossoming into the offensive threat everyone hoped he'd be here in Calgary. In fact, Reinprecht recently won offensive player of the week honors from the NHL.
Anyways, despite their humiliating 7-1 drubbing at the hands of the Oil Stains the other night, the Coyotes have put together a surprisingly decent run over the past 10 game (7-3-0). This suggests that:
a.) Phoenix might be playing "loose" and relaxed since their play-off hopes are all but extinguished and,
b.) Some of their newly acquired players might actually be helping the team out, unlike some other clubs that shall remain nameless (*AHEM* Vancouver).
Speaking of newly acquired, the Desert Dogs winger Oleg Kvasha won't be in the line-up tonight (or, indeed, for the rest of the season) according to TSN. While I dont think his lack will exactly hand the game over to Calgary, he has had 10 points for Phoenix since being dealt by the Islanders. So it's in no way a bad thing that he's injured.
So what might hand the game to the Flames? Word is, Sauve will be in the nets for the Coyotes tonight. While there is always the possibility that Sauve will be highly motivated to show-up the team that gave up on him, I consider it highly unlikely that he will out-duel Kiprusoff. Course, there's been other marginal back-ups we've had problems with this year, so I guess anything's possible.
As far as Flame's issues go, it sounds like a lot of their injured are almost ready to return. According to Peter Mahr this morning, Leopold, Lundmark and Warrener are all skating with the team. It would be exceedingly beneficial to Calgary if they could re-insert either Leo or Warrener or both back into the line-up. That would (probably) mean no more Mush hobbling around and the return of Ference to the 6th defenesman role (where is far more effective). There were no real indications if anyone will be returning for certain for the game tonight, so I guess we'll have to wait and see...
On the Line:
First in the NW and a play-off spot. Until Calgary passes that "96 point" threshold, every point is precious. In addition, the Flames can maintain or increase their 3 point bulge over the Avs with a win tonight.
So here's hoping the boys come out with a big effort this evening. Besides all the really important stuff listed above, we simply cannot lose to a team that Edmonton beat 7-1...
Where Have all the Flames Blogs Gone?
More props for this humble blog from the venerable Battle of Alberta.
The question raised in this recent post, however, is a good one: why aren't there more Calgary Flames blogs out there?
If anyone knows of any other decent Flame based blogs floating around cyberspace, please let me (or Matt of BofA fame) know about it.
Otherwise, more Calgary commenters and fans over at the BofA would be appreciated. The Oilers fans that frequent that blog sure can talk some good smack!
The question raised in this recent post, however, is a good one: why aren't there more Calgary Flames blogs out there?
If anyone knows of any other decent Flame based blogs floating around cyberspace, please let me (or Matt of BofA fame) know about it.
Otherwise, more Calgary commenters and fans over at the BofA would be appreciated. The Oilers fans that frequent that blog sure can talk some good smack!
Tuesday, April 04, 2006
Gotta But Coulda
Not much to say about this one, really. Played well, got a point, coulda won...
As expected, the Detroit game was as close as they come. Low scoring, but with lots of scoring chances and anxiety producing moments, last nights contest resembled a play-off match in many ways.
Besides, of course, the shoot-out.
I think Calgary played a decent game - they generated a lot of scoring chances and held a high powered opponent to a single goal. After so many games recently and with so many injured, I think garnering a point against the #1 team in the league is nothing to sneeze at...
Positives:
- Dion Phaneuf scores his 18th goal, tying Gary Suter for the Flame's franchise record for goals by a rookie defenseman. Kudos!
- Jarome Iginla. Lands on both lists today. Was Calgary's most dangerous forward and killed penalties with a fury. Collected 6 shots on goal and 26+ minutes of ice!
- Penlaty Kill. Held the #1 powerplay in the NHL off the scoresheet.
- Miikka Kiprusoff. Simply outstanding. His repeated stoning of Henrik Zetterberg was something to behold. If only he was better in shoot-outs (not that that will matter in about 3 weeks).
- Mush and Hulse. More props for the two stand-ins. Still no royal screw-ups.
- Chuck Kobasew. Fast and aggressive all night. It was the Lombo/Kobasew/Amonte line that established the tenacious forecheck that lead to Calgary's only goal.
Negatives:
- Shooting blanks. Only one goal for on Detroit's back-up goalie.
- Powerplay. Went 0 for 6. Looked less than organized most of the time.
- Jarome Iginla. Had a good game what would have been a GREAT game had he capitalized on just one of his numerous good scoring chances.
- Andrew Ference. Back in the negatives. Author of several bad give-aways, including one in overtime that lead to his hooking penalty. Looked very much like a 6th defenseman pressed into 2nd defenseman duties. Come back quick Leo!
- Flames and the shoot-out. We just plain suck at them all around.
Next up...the Rhino 'Yotes!
As expected, the Detroit game was as close as they come. Low scoring, but with lots of scoring chances and anxiety producing moments, last nights contest resembled a play-off match in many ways.
Besides, of course, the shoot-out.
I think Calgary played a decent game - they generated a lot of scoring chances and held a high powered opponent to a single goal. After so many games recently and with so many injured, I think garnering a point against the #1 team in the league is nothing to sneeze at...
Positives:
- Dion Phaneuf scores his 18th goal, tying Gary Suter for the Flame's franchise record for goals by a rookie defenseman. Kudos!
- Jarome Iginla. Lands on both lists today. Was Calgary's most dangerous forward and killed penalties with a fury. Collected 6 shots on goal and 26+ minutes of ice!
- Penlaty Kill. Held the #1 powerplay in the NHL off the scoresheet.
- Miikka Kiprusoff. Simply outstanding. His repeated stoning of Henrik Zetterberg was something to behold. If only he was better in shoot-outs (not that that will matter in about 3 weeks).
- Mush and Hulse. More props for the two stand-ins. Still no royal screw-ups.
- Chuck Kobasew. Fast and aggressive all night. It was the Lombo/Kobasew/Amonte line that established the tenacious forecheck that lead to Calgary's only goal.
Negatives:
- Shooting blanks. Only one goal for on Detroit's back-up goalie.
- Powerplay. Went 0 for 6. Looked less than organized most of the time.
- Jarome Iginla. Had a good game what would have been a GREAT game had he capitalized on just one of his numerous good scoring chances.
- Andrew Ference. Back in the negatives. Author of several bad give-aways, including one in overtime that lead to his hooking penalty. Looked very much like a 6th defenseman pressed into 2nd defenseman duties. Come back quick Leo!
- Flames and the shoot-out. We just plain suck at them all around.
Next up...the Rhino 'Yotes!
Monday, April 03, 2006
I Hope Im Not Dreaming
It honestly felt like my birthday and Christmas had come early and were occuring simultaneously on Saturday night:
- 6-3 win over Colorado on Friday!
- 4-1 win over Edmonton on Saturday!
- 10 goals scored in 2 games and 2 consectuive 3 goal victories!
- The Edmonton crowd's gnashing of teeth over at the Battle of Alberta (see comments).
- Move 4 points up on Colorado for the division lead.
- Move ever closer to the "play-off clinching" point total of 96.
Yes, it was a wonderful, wonderful weekend. It wasn't "Stanley cup" winning wonderful. It wasn't even "knock out Vancouver in the first round" wonderful. But damn good, nonetheless.
Gotta say, the Flames as a whole surprised me. After their none-too-good road trip, I was starting to get a tad worried. However, even with a dense schedule and a bunch of significant injuries, the boys pulled through in great fashion. Heck, they're even starting to score some. If THIS is the team that's going to appear in the post season this year, color me satisfied, win or lose.
And now...
Colorado P/N
Positives:
- 6 goals for! That ever elusive killer instinct arrives!
- I mentioned in the pre-game write-up that the team that got a better performance from their support players would win. I was right. Donovan, Lombardi, Simon, Macdonald...everyone was contributing.
- Dion Phaneuf. Changes the feel of the game with 2 huge hits in the second period. Seemed to ignite the Flames.
- Shean Donovan. Covered briefly above. Scored one of the nicest goals by a Flame all season and assisted on Macdonald's goal. Best game of the year for Dono.
- Tony Amonte. Still didn't score but was playing his ass off. It was his great pass that set-up Lombo's short-handed break-away.
- Mush and Hulse. Pressd into action thanks to injuries, the pair weren't humiliated by the talented Avs, which is saying something. Did all we can expect of them.
- Jarome Iginla. Was really strong along the wall and set-up a Gift for Langkow.
Negatives:
- First Period. Gave up a one goal lead thanks to goals 20-odd seconds apart by Sakic. I hate it when they do that!
- Andrew Ference. On for all 3 goals against. 2 Miscues lead to Av's 1st and 3rd goals. Made me wish for Leopold to come back as fast as possible...
- Kristian Huselius. Invisible for most of the game.
Edmonton P/N
Positives:
- Take the game and the season series! Another season of dominating the Oil!
- Miikka Kiprusoff. Made the big saves when we needed him to. The break-away stop on Peca comes to mind.
- Kristian Huselius. After some mediocre performances, Beetlejuice shows up to score another game winner against the Oilers. Was robbed of a hat-trick by the cross-bar.
- Jarome Iginla. Played a complete, all-around game. Has quietly put together a 6 game point streak.
- Damond Langkow. Scored his 22nd of the year and added an assist. Seems to be clicking with Jarome a bit more.
- Andrew Ference. Okay, I pick on this guy a lot. But he managed a decent game in his own end and even added the back-breaking PP goal in the 3rd to seal the deal.
- Mush and Hulse. The two back-benchers came through in the clutch again.
- Powerplay. 2 for 6 on the night.
- Penalty Kill. Denied all 5 Oiler chances.
Negatives:
- Officiating. Nominal penalty calls half the time and then the "delayed penalty" debacle in the third.
- First 10 minutes. Calgary was pretty much totally outplayed at the start of the game before turning it around.
- Simon losing to Big Georges. The fight was a little anti-climatic thanks to Simon's little stumble that basically lead to his waving his hands in the air and then falling down. He didn't return after being cut in the fight.
Anyways, it's on to Detroit tonight. The Flames have a chance to climb further atop the NW while coming ever closer to ensuring a play-off berth. Here are some of the factors:
- Calgary still has a full sick-bay. Leopold, Nilson, Lundmark, Warrener and McCarty are all still out. Which means more of Hulse, Mush, Germyn and Macdonald...while they have performed admirably thus far, the Flame's luck can only last so long.
- Detroit has clinched just about everything and is playing out the stretch. This is their 3rd game in 4 nights (I believe) on this road trip. They may just mail one in, especially if Calgary starts hitting them early and often.
- Detroit is also playing without noteworthy regulars Manny Legace and Matthew Schneider.
- Calgary is going for their 4th win in a row for the first time since January. Conversely, Detroit hasn't lost in regulation in the last 10 games (7-0-3).
- The Red Wing's impressive away record (27-6-3) is about the same as the Flame's impressive home record (26-7-3).
It all adds up to a head scratcher. Detroit is the best team in the league in terms of points, but have had the benefit of feasting on the weak sisters in the central division all year. Plus, Im fairly certain the Flames have won the last couple of meetings between these two teams...
Let's just hope for another solid performance. Im still all a-glow from this weekend's fun-ness, so I wouldn't be terribly depressed by a loss tonight (especially given all the injuries).
That said I still would vastly prefer a win...
GO FLAMES GO!
- 6-3 win over Colorado on Friday!
- 4-1 win over Edmonton on Saturday!
- 10 goals scored in 2 games and 2 consectuive 3 goal victories!
- The Edmonton crowd's gnashing of teeth over at the Battle of Alberta (see comments).
- Move 4 points up on Colorado for the division lead.
- Move ever closer to the "play-off clinching" point total of 96.
Yes, it was a wonderful, wonderful weekend. It wasn't "Stanley cup" winning wonderful. It wasn't even "knock out Vancouver in the first round" wonderful. But damn good, nonetheless.
Gotta say, the Flames as a whole surprised me. After their none-too-good road trip, I was starting to get a tad worried. However, even with a dense schedule and a bunch of significant injuries, the boys pulled through in great fashion. Heck, they're even starting to score some. If THIS is the team that's going to appear in the post season this year, color me satisfied, win or lose.
And now...
Colorado P/N
Positives:
- 6 goals for! That ever elusive killer instinct arrives!
- I mentioned in the pre-game write-up that the team that got a better performance from their support players would win. I was right. Donovan, Lombardi, Simon, Macdonald...everyone was contributing.
- Dion Phaneuf. Changes the feel of the game with 2 huge hits in the second period. Seemed to ignite the Flames.
- Shean Donovan. Covered briefly above. Scored one of the nicest goals by a Flame all season and assisted on Macdonald's goal. Best game of the year for Dono.
- Tony Amonte. Still didn't score but was playing his ass off. It was his great pass that set-up Lombo's short-handed break-away.
- Mush and Hulse. Pressd into action thanks to injuries, the pair weren't humiliated by the talented Avs, which is saying something. Did all we can expect of them.
- Jarome Iginla. Was really strong along the wall and set-up a Gift for Langkow.
Negatives:
- First Period. Gave up a one goal lead thanks to goals 20-odd seconds apart by Sakic. I hate it when they do that!
- Andrew Ference. On for all 3 goals against. 2 Miscues lead to Av's 1st and 3rd goals. Made me wish for Leopold to come back as fast as possible...
- Kristian Huselius. Invisible for most of the game.
Edmonton P/N
Positives:
- Take the game and the season series! Another season of dominating the Oil!
- Miikka Kiprusoff. Made the big saves when we needed him to. The break-away stop on Peca comes to mind.
- Kristian Huselius. After some mediocre performances, Beetlejuice shows up to score another game winner against the Oilers. Was robbed of a hat-trick by the cross-bar.
- Jarome Iginla. Played a complete, all-around game. Has quietly put together a 6 game point streak.
- Damond Langkow. Scored his 22nd of the year and added an assist. Seems to be clicking with Jarome a bit more.
- Andrew Ference. Okay, I pick on this guy a lot. But he managed a decent game in his own end and even added the back-breaking PP goal in the 3rd to seal the deal.
- Mush and Hulse. The two back-benchers came through in the clutch again.
- Powerplay. 2 for 6 on the night.
- Penalty Kill. Denied all 5 Oiler chances.
Negatives:
- Officiating. Nominal penalty calls half the time and then the "delayed penalty" debacle in the third.
- First 10 minutes. Calgary was pretty much totally outplayed at the start of the game before turning it around.
- Simon losing to Big Georges. The fight was a little anti-climatic thanks to Simon's little stumble that basically lead to his waving his hands in the air and then falling down. He didn't return after being cut in the fight.
Anyways, it's on to Detroit tonight. The Flames have a chance to climb further atop the NW while coming ever closer to ensuring a play-off berth. Here are some of the factors:
- Calgary still has a full sick-bay. Leopold, Nilson, Lundmark, Warrener and McCarty are all still out. Which means more of Hulse, Mush, Germyn and Macdonald...while they have performed admirably thus far, the Flame's luck can only last so long.
- Detroit has clinched just about everything and is playing out the stretch. This is their 3rd game in 4 nights (I believe) on this road trip. They may just mail one in, especially if Calgary starts hitting them early and often.
- Detroit is also playing without noteworthy regulars Manny Legace and Matthew Schneider.
- Calgary is going for their 4th win in a row for the first time since January. Conversely, Detroit hasn't lost in regulation in the last 10 games (7-0-3).
- The Red Wing's impressive away record (27-6-3) is about the same as the Flame's impressive home record (26-7-3).
It all adds up to a head scratcher. Detroit is the best team in the league in terms of points, but have had the benefit of feasting on the weak sisters in the central division all year. Plus, Im fairly certain the Flames have won the last couple of meetings between these two teams...
Let's just hope for another solid performance. Im still all a-glow from this weekend's fun-ness, so I wouldn't be terribly depressed by a loss tonight (especially given all the injuries).
That said I still would vastly prefer a win...
GO FLAMES GO!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)