- 05:31 PM
- 11/21/09
Can't say this has caught anybody off guard. If and when the only question most of the off season. When Toronto traded with the BlackHawks a few weeks ago for a draft pick this was a forgone conclusion. Still Toronto can't field a competitive team this season and possibly next as well. They'll be facing salary cap issues sooner rather than later with a phelthora of restricted FA's in their pipeline. It's the Matts Sudin deja vue gottya from the early 90's for this Leafs squad except Kessels not the Super Talent Sudin was and his 36 Goals last season will be hard to reproduce on a Leafs squad lacking significant offensive depth and play making Forwards to bang pucks on goal. I give Bruins Brass kudo's on this one. They played the Leafs like Grandpa's favorite fiddle!
posted by skydivedad at 04:53 PM on September 19
The Annual State of the Bruins (Video) "Town Hall" Fasinating inside look at a Ritual Pre-Season Tradition. Livewire from BostonBruinsTV. As a BlackHawks fan I can relate. Oh the B's Winter Classic Jersey is the Bomb! Flyers vs. Bruins Winter Classic that will be something to see. OK all you Bruin Fans take heart the season is almost upon us.
posted by skydivedad at 07:44 PM on September 17
Isn't it about time for our yearly hockey predictions post? Skater umm...MrFrisby
You know it is. Thanks for the reminder and that thread is like revisiting SportsFilters Old Home Week! How is your toe coming along by the way? I'll see if I can get the 2009 Hockey Prediction thread put up in the Locker Room. I do claim 1st dibs on the ultimate fate of #1 Rookie John Tavares under the guidance of the evil Garth Snow. (Why would he sign Biron and Roloson when they have DePietro? 3 starting Goalies does a trend make...)
posted by skydivedad at 02:48 PM on September 04
As for the upcoming hockey season, I'm super excited. The NHLPA is in flux, effectively giving Buttman more power...the Pens are defending champs, meaning we gotta listen to national commentators fellate Cindy Crosby even more than normal...the Wings signed Jason Willaims, Patrick Eaves, AND Todd Bertuzzi while losing Samuelsson, Hossa, AND Hudler...I'm so excited I may vomit... MeatSaber
in flux thats an understatement. I thought the firing of Paul Kelly was an inside powerplay by Glenn Healy and he up and resigns yesterday! What a mess.
I'm also not looking forward to the All Crosby all the time banter by the god awful National commentators foisted upon us. He's not even the best player on his team let alone the league. (That would be Melkin and Ovechkin) but someone will surely draft him ahead of both of those guys in most Fantasy Leagues. I've already heard the grumbling about his low chances of wearing the C for Team Canada.
Well as a BlackHawks Fan in a house full of Red Wing nuts can't say I'm to disappointed in all those goals leaving the Joe, I'd also be pissed about Babcock Coaching Team Canada when he has a NHL squad in dire need of his undivided attention. Cheer up I predict Zetterburg (He's the one who suffered most with Hossa on board) and a soon to be super goal scoring Villie Leino will make you forget Mr. Hossa. As a BlackHawks fan I'm excited to have him but the July shoulder surgery won't see him on our ice until December. This is a disappointment and removes him from my draft board.
Anyway, I hear Chris Chelios is looking to hook up with Nashville, talk about weird can you imagine him showing up at the Joe with that sweater on? It might take awhile to clean all that Cheli's Chilli from the ice! I'm heading up north to see the 12th Annual Prospects Tourney in Traverse City it starts Sunday. NoMich your squad "Carolina Hurricanes" is one of the 8 teams. It's their 1st year.
OK, well maybe we have enough interest to get the Spofi Puckathon Rotisserie League rolling again. It disappeared last year after a 4 year run. I would really like a chance to defend my Championship and that would be difficult as the Commissioner. Any Volunteers?
I will put together an Olympic Hockey Pick'em if you guys care to play.
posted by skydivedad at 11:36 AM on September 04
My own personal response to this is that, ironically (or not), I am actually starting to feel that SpoFi is back. I really fell outta the loop for a while after the move, but the look and feel is really back to the way it was when I got hooked. Part of that is the ongoing discussions about how it should be. Spitzengle
...I suggested the Huddle because there ought to be more stuff to do here...rcade
Well, my hope has been the same Spetzengle. The Spofi Puckathon used to fill up a Yahoo NHL Roto League with 20 players and a few members couldn't get a spot. Past Champions easily had a chance to defend and we always had excellent locker room threads discussing all aspects of the league. Who had the best draft, strength and weakness of each squad, the long slug that is an NHL Hockey season. We also enjoyed the run up to the draft and the effects of various offseason player movements.
We we're especially engaged in the last Winter Olympics in Turin, Italy. Olympic Hockey and Curling meant a lot to us. We have another chance this season as Canada Host the 2010 Winter Olympics and the incredible 09 NHL Season looms large. We're only a few weeks away from the 1st preseason game and camps are opening as we speak. Talking about an opportunity to do stuff.
I challenge each and everyone who participated in past Spofi Puckathons to play again this year, despite the loss of Chico as Commissioner, who never got the accolades he deserved for Commishing the league all those years. His effort was outstanding and it would be sweat to have him Commish another Puckathon.
I've tried reaching out to Tony but haven't heard back from him. Yea, I miss the Puckathon, the level of play was right up there with the Expert leagues I participate in and that Championship means more to me than any other. I'd like a chance to defend my Championship! Is there not a single member here willing to take me on? I'll know when this league is reborn that SportsFilter is once again at the top of its game. It would be awful to go through the 2010 Winter Olympics and another NHL Season without hearing Weedy and Grum pontificating in the league chat (and all the others that made this a special place).
As for the huddle, I've no idea what to do with it, so it shouldn't be any different from the rest of the site for me.THX-1138
Glad I'm not alone in that sentiment! So, I'll post this here in the Huddle thread for Friday Sept. 4th, 2009. If it offends anyone with its presence I apologize, It's certainly not my intention.
Any willing Puckathon V participants out here? Anyone feel like commissioning such a league? (Chico Bangs we need you!) Yahoo Sports opened Fantasy Hockey on Sept. 2nd! Anyone besides me excited about Canada's Hosting of the 2010 Winter Olympics and the return of Olympic Hockey and the very intriguing spectacle that is Olympic Curling?
posted by skydivedad at 08:58 AM on September 04
Surprised yea maybe but the rumblings started last week at the orientation camp in Calgary. I'm shocked not at all. Kelly's lack of hockey knowledge and his buddy buddy approach to Bettman certainly rubbed many players the wrong way. Kinda smells like an inside power move by Glenn Healey to me especially with the immediate resignation of Pat Flatley. It will be interesting to see if Healey is on the top of the replacement list. The search committee should be announced probably later today.
posted by skydivedad at 02:44 PM on August 31
While the NHL as represented by Bettman are running ramshackle over U.S. Bankruptcy law and scaring off one of the better prospective owners (Jerry Reinsdorf) of this squad the fate of the Coyote Franchise lingers in purgatory. It's not only the Canadian TV Contract but ownership groups in Toronto and Montreal that dread the possibility of having real competition in Ontario. Than "business as usual" would have to change and the Faithful in Toronto might actually stop supporting a system that has delivered nothing but heart ache decade after decade.
It's really more League thumb nosing at the real "Hockey Fans" who've about had it with our sports kow towing to the casual American fans who don't really understand the game and demand we dismantle its structure so they can watch it on ESPN. I say screw them anyway but supposedly the league thinks they are worth the league shytting on all the tradition that makes Hockey the Amazing Sport it is.
The very best thing that could happen for "Real Hockey" fans is for this franchise to end up in Hamilton. End of Rant!
As a side note: I ran away with the Spofi Roto Fantasy Hockey title 2 years ago. Last year that league didn't happen and I was deprived of the ability to defend my Championship. This League had a long and storied history on SportsFilter. I challenge each and everyone of you (especially former Champions) to a rematch and a rebirth of the Spofi Roto Hockey League. I deserve the right to defend my Championship if my run away victory scared you off I'll ease up (not!) I would gladly do whatever it takes to bring that league back this season. How about it gang, anybody think they can take my crown? All The Best Paul
posted by skydivedad at 12:45 PM on August 29
an estimated $23 in Retail Sales Surcharges for the next fiscal year (should read an estimated $23 Million In Retail Sales...)
posted by skydivedad at 11:14 PM on August 06
This is getting "Coyote Ugly" and the recent leak of confidential Bankruptcy Documents has the League and local (Glendale) officials scrambling to keep one of the few Bidders for the team promising to keep it in the area. Jerry Reinsdorf's (and a consortium of other investors) $148 Million bid is in jeopardy of being withdrawn as the Chicago Sports Mogul expressed his anger over the leak this past weekend. His representative however were in Federal Court speaking with Judge Redfield Baum on Monday the 3rd.
The leak exposed information pertaining to negotiations between the Reinsdorf Group and Glendale officials over an estimated $23 in Retail Sales Surcharges for the next fiscal year Mr. Reinsdorf requested in exchange for keeping the team in Glendale. Further more the agreement called for payments to the Group of $15 Million if the team continued to lose money over the next 5 years or allow the the team to be Sold and/or moved.
Although he denies it observers believe the confidential information was posted publicly through the court's Web site by attorneys for current Coyotes owner Jerry Moyes. A spokesman for Moyes, Steve Roman, said on Monday that the leak was "completely inadvertent and accidental."
"There was no funny business," he said. Moyes of course would prefer the $212.5 Million (U.S.) offer from Balsillie who would move the team to Ontario and Moyes would get some cash as well. The suspicion of Moyes involvement with the leak appear well founded.
Glendale residents are already reeling over the $180 Million investment the city made into the Jobing.com arena. The arena has lost an estimated $30 Million a year already since the Coyotes moved into the facility.
This has Glendale City Manager Ed Beasely scrambling for his political life as he has requested Judge Baum to hold in contempt Moyes' council and remove Mr. Moyes from the bidding process.
Really, it seems no matter the eventual outcome Glendale residents have already lost. By moving the auction to Sept. 10th and opening up the process to Mr. Basillie some of the monetary burden can be diverted from the Glendale taxpayers despite the efforts of NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman.
NHL owners voted on July 29th to block the Basillie Bid. It will be interesting to see how the league and Bettman can justify blocking Basillie when his bid is by far the most favorable. The NHL has been funding many of the Coyote's operation since the move from Winnipeg in 1996 and has lost $10's of millions since.
Like I said it's "Coyote Ugly"
posted by skydivedad at 07:51 PM on August 06
Wow, I don't know what happened here. I go away for a few days and this train wreck appears. brandy you certainly have a propensity for the absurd which I find most disconcerting. I realize laughter is an excellent rebuttal for relieving the anxiety of racial discourse but you've taken cognitive absurdities to a whole different level I never imagined possible. It reminds me of part of James Heckman's critique of the Bell Curve.
posted by skydivedad at 11:55 PM on April 22
"Easy to give lip service over the Internet. Much more effective example would be through your actions and deeds." posted by giveuptheghost at 5:53 PM CDT on April 19 Isn't that exactly what your comment does! The only person discussed in the article that purchased this shirt turned out to be the daughter of a woman who collects examples of racist images of Asian Americans But the customer in question, Laureen Hom, had no intention of wearing the shirt, she said. ''I bought it for my mom, who has a collection of racist images of Asian Americans,'' she said. And, she added, the fact the creator is Asian ''is no excuse.'' "Would you confront the guy selling the tshirts or the people buying? Easy to give lip service over the Internet. Much more effective example would be through your actions and deeds." posted by giveuptheghost at 5:53 PM CDT on April 19 Yes, I would confront the vendor and anyone indifferent and ignorant enough to wear such filth. Both the vendor and his customers who purchased these are either "sadly ignorant." as the author suggested or callous bigots. I've confronted the KKK in Skokie IL, near Circle Campus in Chicago's Loop, in downtown Kalamazoo Mi as well Gulfport Mississippi and several other locations. I've received death threats for articles I've written and have had urine thrown on me by the same types who would callously chuckle amongst themselves as they demean another culture and dehumanize a fellow human being. I know of several members here on SportsFilter that would have gladly joined me in any of those actions. I have friends who've been badly injured, jailed or beaten for standing up to these bullies. So, whats your point? That by discussing evil online we're all somehow cowards. That it is better we just let these goofballs go unchallenged online as well as off and leave this mess for our children. I think not.
posted by skydivedad at 06:37 PM on April 19
When I 1st read this article originally I felt I was in a time warp. Are you kidding me! Cubs Outfielder Kosuke Fukudome is just arrived in our country and as far as most fans of the Ballclub are concerned he's been nothing but a fine example of Class. I just can't imagine how he feels seeing such a blatant display of Racial Bigotry and stereotyping being displayed in the neighborhood and being new here I hope he doesn't judge us all by this outrage. Reading the justification given by this lame brained vendor in defense of the indefensible leaves me angrier and ashamed to think so called Fans of my beloved Cubbies can even consider this an appropriate display of support for the Ballclub and this astounding talent we're blessed with having in a Cubs uniform. As for the Cubs organization they were able to attempt to remove this stain on the Honor of their organization. I can't imagine how Kosuke must feel being so far away from his Homeland and to be treated to one of the lowest forms of American Culture. "Racism for Profit"
posted by skydivedad at 10:58 AM on April 19
Wow Phil That's an amazing list of talent that never won a Cup. I'd say your right on most of those guys being better and I had forgotten about several of them when I typed that comment. It's just that I moved to Michigan several years ago and hear that argument about Dino all the time from the Wings fans around here. Yikes......I'm going native....
posted by skydivedad at 09:56 AM on November 10
Ah, they're so inclusive it's hard to suggest there are any real milestones - though 500 goals is close to a lock. So is a career average of over a point a game. Not a lot of guys do those thing........ I think 500 goals is an exclusive enough club that anyone who has hit that milestone....... The Hockey HOF works a little differently than those in other sports. Dino Ciccarelli has 608 career goals and 1200 points and is the North Stars all-time goals scorer yet isn't a member of the Hall. He also is considered by many as the best player no never win a Cup. His career was tainted by several off the ice incidents that include arrest and conviction for indecent exposure and assaults on members of the media. He's also remembered for a vicious stick attack on Leaf's D'man Luke Richardson. I believe these issues have been used by the induction committee to exclude Ciccarelli from the Hall. The Induction Committee is an 18 Member Selection Committee of HOF'ers and Media Personalities. Only a relatively short 3 year period is required after retirement. (This was waived for 10 players considered exceptional). There are many that believe the current standards are too lax. It's also criticized for having an over representation of Original 6 Inductee's at the expense of WHA and International Players. As for Lindros many won't forget his disdain for the Nordiques on Draft Day with "nasty comments" and refusing to wear the jersey. His career will be marked as incomplete by some due to the his many injury shortened seasons and career. He does have 2 or 3 great years and 1 League MVP Honor. His career reminds me most of Cam Neely (2005 Inductee) and the numbers are similar as are the rash of injuries both suffered through-out their careers. I believe Lindros worthy of induction but the committee will probably make him wait more than 3 years.
posted by skydivedad at 04:22 AM on November 10
I was watching his progress through-out the start of this season and maybe enjoying it more than I should considering my disappointment in the Stars for moving this franchise. I guess they've been in Dallas long enough now that it seems OK and Minni does have a new Wild squad. I watched Modano many times early in his career when the North Stars rolled into the Old Chicago Stadium to take on the Blackhawks. We always knew Modano would get a goal or two no matter what the Blackhawks did to the rest of the N. Star squad. He's the kind of player that could strike quickly and unexpectedly, you could never take your eyes off him. It was a great rivalry. Greatest American scorer yes but maybe not the greatest American born player. IMHO that distinction belongs to Chris Chelios. Anyway, Congratulation Mike Modano.
posted by skydivedad at 12:03 PM on November 08
Fab Find! Thanks a ton Good Doctor. It's pretty neat to see the players interact in these spots and sending Kane for the Soda was extra kewl........ It's a start and a well done one indeed........ This FPP definitely deserves a Double Good Flag!
posted by skydivedad at 06:20 PM on November 06
Clean up on aisle 4..........
posted by skydivedad at 05:37 PM on November 04
Third, the Wings are victims of their own success. That's a great point holden and doesn't bode well for a pick up in attendance this year. The Red Wings hold the longest current playoff streak of all professional North American sports teams, at 16 consecutive seasons. Don't get me started on a rant about the NHL Schedule. It's beyond logic! I do want to point out the current Minnesota Squad has had some playoff disappointments and a 1st round exit last year included but it hasn't diminished their fan base in the least , however I don't buy into the anointment by McKeon of the Twin Cities as the "New Hockeytown" USA. You can't have "Hockeytown USA without a Cup in my view, until such time I'd say the distinction is still up for grabs, if not still presiding in Detroit.
posted by skydivedad at 10:07 AM on November 04
but losing took its toll over time. That hasn't happened in Detroit. The Red Wings continue there winning ways. Certainly a 1st round exit against 8th seeded Edmonton 2 years ago may have been painful for their fans but they did go all the way to the Western Conference finals last year. The 3 year gap between Cups from 97-98 and 01-02 only saw a rabid fans base continue their sell-out ways. This years squad is arguably the best in all of the NHL at least the best in the west. Some have argued the retirement of Steve Yzerman and the lack of a Strong North American Face for the franchise has hurt the attendance but with Henrik Zetterberg leading the NHL in points and with Lidstrom (a certain HOF'er) wearing the C how can a fan not be excited?
posted by skydivedad at 07:49 AM on November 04
Which bunch of statements are you referencing yerfatma? I count one that was a counter to the accusation that I only watch amateur hockey and was directed at a poster other than YYM. He stuck his nose in where it wasn't invited, much like you have in your reply. I "kinda" owe you or YYM nada, zip, nothing. I'm willing to overlook the last few insults and let this drop but I doubt you have that capacity. Really, if anyone on this sight considers himself an omnipotent "authority" it's probably you above all others.
posted by skydivedad at 05:56 PM on October 29
I don't need to prove a thing to you YYM. Grow Up!
posted by skydivedad at 02:52 PM on October 29
I have absolutely zero doubt I've seen tons more NHL Games than you have by an exponential # and not just my homer squad. That Flyer Kool-Aide seems to have clouded your judgement. Stop blaming the victim and Randy Jones deserves the bulk of the blame. Here's my final word on this stuff. Savagery doesn't belong in the game. Legal clean hard hitting and enforcing does.
posted by skydivedad at 11:43 AM on October 29
Darien Hatcher. Now there's a trusted source of all that is dirty in the NHL. Kind of like Mike Tyson discussing the merit of low blows and ear biting. Cluade Julian summed it up perfectly. It wasn't clean in the view of Bruins head coach Claude Julien. "I don't think that's accidental," he said Saturday. "So, yes, it was a dirty hit." Colin Campbell needs to do the right thing and soon.
posted by skydivedad at 10:45 AM on October 29
Here's that link to sportslogos.net gfinsf. Great Site Thanks for the Heads-up. Chico, if your still heading to the NHL Store this afternoon let me know which jersey your wearing and I can't wait to see those pics. Thanks
posted by skydivedad at 08:49 AM on October 29
Not to derail the thread, but anyone want to volunteer their most regrettable hockey shirt purchase? That's easy, the Game Worn Blackhawk "Rookie Savard" Home Sweater now in the hands of my ex........
posted by skydivedad at 11:03 PM on October 28
Chico I was hoping to get a report from a New Yorker on the NHL Store. (Pics Please) Were you there for the opening a few weeks ago? What's the vibe like and please prance about the Store Front in your finest NHL Jersey as Don Lagrecka and TJ do the XM NHL Center Ice Radio Show from that locale 12PM-2PM EST M-F. I listen everyday. If you don't have XM there's a link to the broadcast on NHL.com. (Bottom Right on Home Page) It's the best hockey show on the air! Don't forget a SportsFilter Call-out! Seems like a must see for any future Spofite NYC Hook-up. Oh yea! The Coyotes Home Jersey rocks for sure but let's be real. The best NHL Jersey belongs to the Chicago Squad...........
posted by skydivedad at 10:39 PM on October 28
Randy Jones' action on the ice in this incident certainly is out of character for him, your sarcasm aside, which just belays the point. The team encouraged his action directly or not and they should also be held accountable. In MLB the manager can get suspended when he has his pitcher hit a batter something similar in the NHL is in order.
posted by skydivedad at 09:05 PM on October 28
This play happens at least 15 times a game. I haven't an idea what sport your watching but this kind of buffoonery doesn't even happen 15 times league wide in a season. It is complete thuggery, a disgrace to the league and to the great game of Hockey! We issue lifetime bans in the adult leagues I play in for a lot less.
posted by skydivedad at 02:33 PM on October 28
All these Flyer apologist should take a break from defending this inexcusable violence. There is absolutely no room in the game for this thuggery! It's no coincidence this Flyer squad has had 3 Major incidences of this type in only 10 Games. Unfortunately the mandate from on top to keep it physical but "clean" hasn't seemed to translate to the players on the ice. The Flyer turn-around this season could be something special instead it's being diminished by this unacceptable rebirth of the "Broad Street Bullies" it wasn't acceptable the 1st time around and this version even less so. I guess the Hockey God's weren't looking because the Flyers managed to win this game and if a broken nose and severe concussion is catching a break from what could have been a life threatening injury or career ending makes Jones somehow less culpable is an absurdity beyond belief. I think Grum's suggestions to have the team share some of the punishment is perfectly in line with the display put on by the Flyers. To say the team atmosphere doesn't encourage these incidents is to deny the truth! If I were a Flyer Fan I'd be embarrassed.
posted by skydivedad at 10:53 AM on October 28
Do you and sdm get to any of the games, sdd? SDM is a Die hard Wings Fan and wouldn't be caught dead at the United Center unless it was to see a Wings Hawks fling. I was a season ticket holder from 1981 until I lost them in a divorce settlement in the early 90's. Unfornuately my beloved bride has corrupted our son as he also is a Wing Nut. I figure when we start kicking their butt in a few years I can win him over!
posted by skydivedad at 12:27 PM on October 23
Way over due is an understatement. This should have happened 2 decades ago. This does make a positive statement by Rocky Wirtz about his leadership as owner of this original 6 franchise. It hasn't been an issue for me since I moved to Michigan some 8 years ago and I watch a ton of Blackhawk games on my Center Ice Package. The thing is I always got the oppositions telecast. Hopefully they can rehire HOF announcer Pat Foley! It will be a real treat for Home fans to get a view of the amazing talent Toews and Kane bring to this squad. I saw the sick move Toews laid on the Avalanche the best goal of the season to date.
posted by skydivedad at 10:21 AM on October 23
Congrats to the Rockies and their fans as another Wild Card Squad makes it to the World Series. It's unfortunate this thread has to start with such a trollish comment by drumdance. Way to show some class in support of your squad. It looks like you've been around here long enough to know better.
posted by skydivedad at 08:00 AM on October 16
When zero starting pitchers get past the 5th inning in a short series your probably not going to be able to beat the other squad to the 3 wins needed to advance. This was more a failure of a pitching staff that just wasn't good then a failure of an offense. Should be an interesting off season for the Yankee Fans here on SportsFilter.
posted by skydivedad at 04:22 PM on October 09
As a Life long Blackhawks fan I used to say things would get better for the Blackhawks when Wirtz dies and this is a feeling I shared with many others. I've seen Fantasy Hockey Teams named "WhenWirtzDies". Well, it doesn't feel so good now that it's a reality and I find myself saddened and ashamed of my earlier feelings. He was there at the Old Chicago Stadium many times in my youth when I attended my 1st games in the 1960's. My condolances to his family and it's truly a sad day for Chicago and the World of Hockey.
posted by skydivedad at 06:53 AM on September 26
They both appear to be promos for the respective sports on NBC. Except the NHL Promo's ran months before on Center Ice and Versus before NBC even televised a game. They originated from the NHL Marketing Department to promo the 2006-07 season. The NFL versions are a year later to promo the 2007-08 season. NBC had nothing to do with the NHL productions. So I guess the problem is a lack of original creativeity on the part of the NFL and NBC. It is nice to notice that the NHL Marketing Department did something successfully enough to be imitated by the Jaggernaut known as the NFL. As a personal observation I can't think of cheesier performance than the affront to acting performed by Payton Manning in these promo's. (IMHO)
posted by skydivedad at 05:46 PM on August 19
Garfield and holden, Thanks for the excellent links and all the great comments in this thread so far. Thanks Gang. Certainly seems to be a case of a win win for the Sellers and the Buyers plus the players have seen their take increase %25 since the CBA came about after the lock-out. Soaring ticket prices and the fans be dammed is the montra of the new look NHL. Thanks Bettman. Now, if only Bill Wirtz would get a clue and find a new owner for the Blackhawks!
posted by skydivedad at 01:59 PM on August 13
To me Scotty Bowman and Al Arbour are the 2 Greatest Coaches in NHL history. Coach Bowman holds the record for: 1. Most NHL Career Victories (1,244) 2nd Al Arbour (781) 2. Most Playoff Games Won (223) 2nd Al Arbour (123) 3. Most Stanley Cups 9! Indeed there are many other records for Coach Bowman I could site but the Headline "Legendary" has true meaning when talking about Scotty Bowman. Anyway, in 1991 while acting in a capacity of advisor and Director of Player Development the Penguins won the Stanley Cup. No other Head Coach in the NHL, MLB, NFL or the NBA has ever won a Championship with 3 different teams. Toronto should be so lucky as to have him in any capacity.
posted by skydivedad at 01:53 PM on August 05
Why bring in a mentor for a guy who's already had 3 years in the position? TSN is now reporting Bowman denied the recent offer in an email "I have not received an offer from the Leafs and don't expect one either" Strange when it was reported earlier this summer that at least one offer had been made for $2 Million but didn't include decision making authority. Maybe Leafs President Peddie is to be included in any potential shake-up? Interesting times in Toronto and I take Bowman's denial with the same skepticism I reserve for Nick Saban.
posted by skydivedad at 10:05 AM on August 05
"No. 1 overall pick is an undersized American who looks like the third singer in a boy band? Can we start sending them FEMA money or something?" Nice work on that Stunner. It's ironic that the Blackhawks all time points leader, 22 year NHL Veteran and Hall of Famer Stan Mikita was all of 5'8" and 165 lbs. soaking wet. He was also consistently a league leader in penalty minutes early in his career. I assure you Patrick Kane is the real deal and Blackhawk fans are in for a real treat when he plays along side of Jonathan Toews. Maybe we can get a modern version of the Famed 60's "Scooter Line" (Ken Wharram, Ab McDonald and Stan Mikita) At the just concluded Blackhawks Prospects Camp Toews and Kane played on the same line with Toews setting up a dazzling Kane Goal with a laser pass on a partial breakaway. Don't be surprised to see Kane make the Big Club this season. Anyway, in regards to the ESPN influence on the "Death" of the NHL. The network does seem mind numbingly ignorant of all things Hockey and many of their talking heads seem to rejoice in taking cheap shots at the Sport I love most. However, the NHL has nobody to blame but themselves. We've discussed many times the idiocy of the rapid expansion of the league in the 90's. The resultant lack of player depth and an incredibly self absorb Players Union. It doesn't seem to matter when a NHL Team from Nashville is currently commanding something like $220 Million Dollars! Remember this really is an owners league and Bettman is just their puppet. I can't condemn Bettman for all these problems (well partially) but it makes no sense to blame only one man. Certainly he's an easy enough target being a lawyer from New York with a Napoleonic Complex! I certainly can see NoMich's point and I share his disappointment with the ineffectiveness of the CBA in keeping Player Salaries in line with reality. I wish the NHL would just concentrate on the promoting Hockey and quit worrying about the casual fickle fan.
posted by skydivedad at 09:04 AM on July 08
I feel more sorry for Russell because he will probably be a raider, being followed cant be one millionth as bad as being a raider. posted by STUNNER at 11:17 PM CDT on April 27 I have a hard time finding any sympathy for this guy regardless of the NFL Team he's playing on. Certainly Teams have a responsibility to diligently safeguard the multimillion dollar investment they make in a player. More needless whining from a spoiled athlete. I got this guy as one of the biggest busts in NFL History. Remember, you heard it here first, Oakland will regret the day they took him #1. This author's outrage is about as compelling as Floyd Landis' claim of being framed. It really pee's me off when Sports Writers insist I'm some kind of a heartless person because I don't share his outrage. What a bunch of BS! Oakland passed on Matt Lienart and Jay Cutler then go goo goo over this guy's arm. This totally reminds me of the Ryan Leaf fiasco. Davis moaned publicly last year about not taking a quarterback in the 1st round then he grabs the flavor of the week at QB because he can throw a football 70 yards. Lane Kiffin did a fine job helping Lienart and Carson Palmer at USC but these guy have some football instict and leadership ability. I'm with Trent Modglin of ProFootball Weekly on this one. Oakland took the wrong QB with this years #1.
posted by skydivedad at 08:53 AM on April 29
OK Gang, Being that I'm making a small amends to my lovely bride and this is cheaper than a dozen roses, I've created a SportsFilter 2007 Road to The Frozen Four confidence pool. I'm attending the Midwest Regionals here in Grand Rapids that kicks off this Friday with Notre Dame vs. Alabama-Huntsville and Boston U vs. Michigan State. Details in the Locker Room
posted by skydivedad at 12:59 PM on March 21
"Some 59 schools field Division I teams (up from 40 in 1990), and nearly 25 percent of the current 900-plus NHL players came out of college hockey programs," St Louis Post-Dispatch Article ... I've been to several CCHA Games this year and saw the Irish Squad 1st Hand. I'm pulling for a CCHA School to win the National Championship. (Hopefully a certain Michigan Squad based in Ann Arbor) but any CCHA Squad will due. By the way there's a lot more to the Fighting Irish then the Hot Goalie. 4 CCHA Squads have qualified for the NCAA Tournament. Mason Cup Champion, Notre Dame, Miami (Ohio), Michigan State and Go Blue Michigan. Thanks for the Great Thread emoeby
posted by skydivedad at 06:53 PM on March 19
Great comments on a situation that needs to be discussed amoung people who love hockey and for those future fans of the sport. Living in Michigan affords my children more opportunity to experience the sport I grew up playing and came to love. The resources and coaching available in this area is probably one of the best in the Nation. As a fan I can't help but wonder what talents we aren't watching because the they didn't recieve the opportunity to learn the sport. I know how much I paid this year alone for my son to be in his league with fee's and equipment cost over $1500. I'm lucky because nearly every High School in this area has a Hockey Team and when he gets older he will get the opportunity to compete for a spot and my cost will go down. It's competitive around here and many players don't make a team but it's been great watching him learn Hockey. (He leads his league in scoring but wants to be a Goalie, yikes..bring $) He's coached by a former Olympian and Coach Ireland of the Grand Rapids Griffins Coaches a Mites Team in his league. The facilities are world class as is the available Coaching and summer camps are happening almost weekly. Anyway my point being that many factors contribute to the lack of minority participation but I blame decades of indifference and neglect. At least as pointed out in the Burnside piece the NHL is making an attempt to provide resources to those who might not otherwise have the same opportunity that I provide for my children. I do have to agree with the writer that their name for the program (Hockey in the Hood) needs to go. Thanks for the great comments everyone.
posted by skydivedad at 02:07 PM on March 09
The NHL announced they have suspended Simon indefinitely without pay pending a hearing. Sounds like the remainder of the year to me and rightfully so. He deserves no less for his dispecable and cowardly act.
posted by skydivedad at 01:44 PM on March 09
Congrats to Coach Dungy, Peyton Manning and the Colts. Great comeback over an incredible opponent in the NE Patriots. Looking forward to seeing them play in the Superbowl.
posted by skydivedad at 10:19 PM on January 21
I think it started with the NE/Chargers thread last week. I didn't realize I was sounding bitter. I offer no excuses, Please accept my apology fraze and you also yerfatma. I always enjoy your columns and both of your comments are always must reads. This series has been super. I offer no excuses.........
posted by skydivedad at 10:10 PM on January 21
Hey you know guys I'm sick of the BS around here. To bad we don't live in a perfect World get over it. It is a big deal to have the first Black or African American as a Head Coach going to the Super Bowl and now with Indy winning we have 2. I think it's fantastic and have no problem saying so or rejoycing in that fact. If you have a problem with me posting this go .... yourself. I'd do it again. If you don't think we have a problem providing deserving Black Coaches opportunities in this country I suggest you take a look at the recent history of the NFL as well as the current state of affairs in Div 1 NCAA College Football. It's a great accomplishment for Coach Smith and Coach Dungy.
posted by skydivedad at 09:29 PM on January 21
You must have misunderstood my comment, certainly the SuperBowl Birth is much more important than his trust in Rex but Lovie stood by his choice at QB despite incredible pressure to do otherwise. The running game was great today and your spot-on, the Defense dominate the squad from New Orleans.
posted by skydivedad at 06:40 PM on January 21
Congratulations to Coach Smith and his Chicago Bears Squad. One of the class acts in the NFL Coaching Ranks and last years "Coach of The Year" sure proved to all the pundits Nationwide that his trust in Rex Grossman and the Dynamic Defense that "Bears" his stamp (Pun Intended) are more than worthy of a Birth in this years Superbowl. I'm extremely proud of your accomplishment Coach Smith!
posted by skydivedad at 06:30 PM on January 21
"smart money tends to be easily identifiable only after the game is played." posted by yerfatma at 1:39 PM CST on January 21 I identified the smart money side of this game well before kickoff. It wasn't difficult at all. ( posted by skydivedad at 1:23 PM CST on January 21) is the time stamp on my comment, well before game-time and I won't even mention my earlier posts today concerning your picks backing the Saints based on a so called "faltering Defense" which was a wagering trap for the dumb money. I also clearly identified Turn-overs, Special Teams Plays as Saint Back Breakers (and a few others). I don't expect any kudo's from you guys, all I know is my Bankroll is significantly fatter from one of the "easiest picks ever". Smart Money Picks usually are..........
posted by skydivedad at 05:30 PM on January 21
It has nothing to do with the line yerfatma...... I could care less about the line. It called smart money vs dumb money. The smart money always has the deeper pockets. As far a wagering a million, I've said it twice but I'll repeat it, The Saints can win. The smart money can be wrong but they usually aren't. You guys can throw your cash at the dumb money if you want, it doesn't change the fact that the smart money is betting Chicago in this one. There is in fact a correlation between the success of the wager when it follows the smart money. That's why its called Smart. Is it gaurenteed? No.
posted by skydivedad at 01:23 PM on January 21
and if you say 80% of the people out there are picking the Saints I'm not saying it but the Sports Book Operators are, 80% of the wagers are being placed on the Saints but the Larger Single Wagers are going on the Bears. If you have 80 guys putting a C note on the Saints and 20 guys throwing down a G chances are the 20 guys are more likely on the right side of the wager. I like to follow the Big money and not the fact that a vast majority of the Bettors disagree. I'll follow the 20 Grand and not join the chase with the fellows laying down the smaller wager. Like I said you could be right, although your arguement for seems more like a trap to me then anything else but hey it's your money.
posted by skydivedad at 11:18 AM on January 21
I really didn't expect you to pick the Bears....... You buckled under the pressure of picking the "Feel Good Story" Saints just like 80% of the rest of the watching Football only in the playoffs, not really Fans of the game but buy into the media feeding frenzy. Never mind that the Bears finished 1st in the League in points off Turn-overs and the Saints dead last. Never mind the Bears +8 TO ratio to the -4 the Saints managed to produce. You seem to have forgotten the Outstanding Special Teams play and the marvelous Kicker Bobby Gould who has made the New Soldier Field his personal Paradise. I won't mention the Saints league leading tendency to give up the Big Play with one of the lowest ranked secondaries in all the land. Oh. never mind this stat: Domed teams in the postseason: 16-45 on the road, 0-6 on the road over the last two decades in conference title games, only two ever advancing to Super Bowls. I'm not surprised you picked the Saints, it's always easier to appease the popular pick and ride the Band Wagon like 80% of the rest of the sheeple then to really analyze a betting forecast correctly. You may be right and the Saints could win but I've learned over the years to never bet with the frenzied crowd no matter what and if the Saints lose I won't be surprised and I'll have my placed my hard earned bankroll on the right side of the bet not the easy "join the crowd" loser pick.
posted by skydivedad at 07:43 AM on January 21
Fantastic hockey action in this Tourney. Tons of action and dramatic finishes. Congrats to the squad from Canada. Well Done!
posted by skydivedad at 10:17 PM on January 05
I was watching that game on Centre Ice and saw the play live. This guy should have shot the dang puck into the net instead of trying to nurse it in. Hey, No excuse but the rest of the Stars were hanging by the bench waiting to celebrate a come from behind victory instead of playing until the Horn Blows, No excuse for that either. It was a great game to watch and seeing this play live was icing on the cake. Zubov and Jokinen are MONEY in a shoot-out. Unbelievable........... Stefan well like I said No Excuse is good enough to explain that miss.
posted by skydivedad at 03:12 PM on January 05
Correct garfield........ but IHF rules are different. You can repeat players after 3 rounds of chances I think is how it works. I like it alot but I bet the goalies don't..........
posted by skydivedad at 12:00 PM on January 03
Wow.. Toews pots 3 Shoot-out Goals and Team Canada defeats Team USA in an 8 round shoot-out at the World Jrs......... Incredible game.... 5-4 Final after a 1-1 tie in regulation.
posted by skydivedad at 11:51 AM on January 03
(sidenote: Not all places. There are people in Minnesota, New York, Ohio, New England, and other places that might as well be Canadian they love hockey so much). Dude, You left Michigan off this list. The most Canadian like place in the States when it comes to Hockey! With 2 OHL Clubs, 3 UHL Squads, an AHL Squad, of course an original 6 NHL Team and Multiple CCHA and WHCA University squads(More than any other State) and unparalleled High School Hockey (over 200 Teams) and Youth Hockey out the wazoo and 1 transplanted Blackhawk nut. Michigan, my friend is Hockey crazy. I'm totally with you on another Canadian Franchise, I'd like to see one in SW Ontario and while I'm dreaming how about placing the Red Wings in the Eastern Conference where they belong. I'm amazed the Pittsburg squad is still considering staying in Pennsylvania after the loosey way they've been treated by the local and state governments. They deserve better and so do the Hockey Fans of Canada!
posted by skydivedad at 11:41 AM on January 03
Phil Kessel is finally traded to the Maple Leafs
They'll be better this year. But goaltending still a huge question.
Can't see the improvement you're talking about this year over last. You can just see the way it's going to go down. Vesa Toskala starts the season as starter under the tremendous pressure of playing for a terrible Leafs team in the middle of hockey's Mecca. Already on a short leash with his coach, and a highly-touted rookie that was the prized off-season acquisition for an ego-driven GM, Toskala wilts under the pressure. In steps said rookie, facing no pressure after the Leafs have already shown how weak they are, and Calder nomination ensues. Haha... in your dreams, Leafs fanatics!
But seriously, the Leafs will probably struggle this year with a serious lack of scoring depth, but they do have a stockpile of talented d-men that could help keep the goal totals down. If Gustavsson gets a chance, he could impress. The "Monster", as he's known, is coming off a monster season in the Swedish Elite League, where he was the top goalie during the regular season and continued into the playoffs leading Farjestad to a championship letting in only 14 goals in 13 playoff games with 5 shutouts.
It's got to be a tremendous burden being a Leafs fan, you guys are a patient and beleaguered lot. If Kessel can ever make a difference for you it's not going to be until the later half of his contract. Let's see how patient you guys really are.