Thrashers

By Brian

May 7, 2007 3:24 PM | Link to this

Craig - I say Popovic (with a 2nd “o”) & Sterling.

By Kari's Karpets

May 7, 2007 4:05 PM | Link to this

Yeah i Definitely Think Sterling will make an impact and Oystrick or Denny will get a good look and Popovic will likely make the squad. I hope Little is on the team but he could be in Chicago next year. Craig: B. Little is with the Wolves right now just wondering if he is going to play at all or if he is just with them for the experience.

By B. Thenet

May 7, 2007 5:50 PM | Link to this

The D prospects playing in Moscow intrigue me more…Nikulin and Enstrom.

Sterling should make the team out of camp, Popovic or Oystrick might…depending on what Nikulin and Enstrom do.

By Brendan

May 7, 2007 6:01 PM | Link to this

Craig, have fun on the trip. I hope you do get to see that Game Seven. They’re somewhat rare and very special to attend.

Mark Popovic: I think he’s got a chance. At $500K, he sure is priced right! He played capably here before. So, I wouldn’t rule this guy out of being on the roster for opening night.

Nathan Oystrick: I think he’s still a year away. Maybe more.

Boris Valabik: I don’t know. He should get a look. He could make the roster. What’s his salary, $850K? If so, that’s still inexpensive depth. But could a blueline as inexperienced as Popovic and Valabik still get us into the playoffs?

Bryan Little: I think he reports to camp, then goes to Chicago. But who knows??

And Brett Sterling: This is one of my favorite latter round Waddell draft picks. I don’t know that he’s ready yet for the NHL. But he’s close. Craig asked about 5-years down the road, this might be the young player who’s still here. Now, iffff Valabik really becomes the “second coming of Chara,” then he’d be the one. I’m not betting on that one, though. I don’t know much about Bryan Little. I can’t say where he’d be in 5 years time.

By Brendan

May 7, 2007 6:13 PM | Link to this

Allright, I don’t want to come off sounding like “Chicken Little,” (The sky is falling!,) but why on Earth is Don Waddell waiting ‘til early June to make contract negotiations? Can’t Belanger and Dupuis sign with anyone? As in, right now? Actually, I think I’m wrong. I think they can sign with anyone come July 1st. But even so, isn’t the price going up, with each contract that ISSSS being signed? Why wait? Lock these guys up now, for less money. He coulda done that the day after the Thrashers were eliminated. As well as tender qualifying offers to McCarthy and Exelby. Slater, as we’ve discussed, is a different matter. He could be had for less as an unrestricted free agent. Giving him a qualfying offer now, as an RFA, means paying him more. He’ll take the deal, unless he really wants to try binding arbitration. But c’mon. What he get last year, four goals? Or something like this. Hopefully the arbitrator demands Slater RETURN some of his salary. Now, I like Slater. He’s a Michigan State guy. I know he can play better than what we saw last season. DW, don’t wait too long.

By LAC

May 7, 2007 7:20 PM | Link to this

I will be in Des Moines tuesday evening to see the Chicago guys, should beFUN for sure…

Yes babbo I can spell and own several businesses, that is the reason I am in Des Moines… Farm equipment sells well here… Did you realize that ?

By Russ

May 8, 2007 6:44 AM | Link to this

I went 3-1 in round 2, missing the Detroit series.

Conference Finals predictions:

Buffalo over Ottawa in 7.

Anaheim over Detroit in 7.

By Tony C.

May 8, 2007 7:42 AM | Link to this

I have to agree on DW’s moves for the time being…our RFAs aren’t exactly “top tier”…so it’s not that big a deal-now as far as not contacting any of our UFAs agents-not even to say

“Hey (JimmyRepresentsOurGuy), I’m going to be @ the Worlds’ and also dropping in on the Wolves playoff run gonna be a lil’ busy-let’s talk on (Date), OK?”

Again, our UFAs aren’t at the top of the list, but I’d hate to read a quote from say, Dupuis that goes like

“Well I really enjoyed ATL, but we never heard anything from management there after the NYR series.”

Now, for the time being, the playoffs are still going on, and I believe there is an unofficial moratorium on moving on other teams UFAs until The Cup finds a new home, so FOR NOW I’m cool with the (non) moves by DW. Plus, I’m sure that this trip will provide him with a good idea of which UFAs are indespensible and which we will not wince when we see them in another sweater. Seeing what there actually exists in the pantry makes good sense.

I would still like to hear that DW makes at least a token run @ Gomez…yes he’s likely to command upwards of 5.75M/yr, but man, just look at his numbers (stil leads all playoff scorers), look at his game/style and realize that you just don’t find pivots like that every day. He has almost all the same “plus” attributes that Savard has/had, is MUCH more responsible defensively, and I think is a bit better in the circle than Savard was/is. Savard’s probably got a step or so on Gomez, but Gomez is still an above-average skater, I hear everyne scream “But the cap, the cap”…I think this is one of those guys that is just too good not to make him an offer.

Gomez may be impossible for us to sign, but I would like to hear that DW tried at least.

Shocker to hear that The Kid let in a “soft/flukey/monkeypuck” goal to loose a “duel”. Perhaps we need to get him some aderol…the ADHD treatment….Nice to hear how #17 is tearing it up, seems like there’s more than enough fire in his belly.

Craig I can’t find enough superlatives for the great job you’re doing-keep up the great work!!!

By LAC

May 8, 2007 8:45 AM | Link to this

Craig… You need to correct the picture…That IS NOT Illya K. in front of the net, he even shoots righthanded…Should be fun here in Des Moines tonight and NO Tornados in the forecast !!!!!!

By Legion of thrash

May 8, 2007 9:36 AM | Link to this

Thats Malkin!

By Thrasher Ryan

May 8, 2007 9:56 AM | Link to this

It’s OK, ol’ PuckSnot’s Red Wings have no chance against Anaheim.

Anaheim in 7 games.

Ottawa in 7 games. Like I said before round 2, Dany Heatley is a huge factor. I know it might be odd, but I find myself rooting for the guy. Weird…

Good job CC, any word yet on when next years schedule is coming out?

By Sham-Rock

May 8, 2007 10:20 AM | Link to this

That is not Kovy in the picture it is Malkin. One would think since this is a hockey blog they would at least know what one of our star players looks like. Not to mention the name on the back of the jersey. You guys are teribble.

By Craig Custance

May 8, 2007 10:33 AM | Link to this

Brian - the typo is now correct.

Brendan - So much for Game 7. Maybe we’ll stay in Detroit long enough to catch Game 2 of the conference finals. Although I’m hearing rumblings that ticket prices are outrageous. As for the UFAs, the Thrashers have exclusive negotiating rights until July 1st. Here’s a Waddell quote that I used for an upcoming Hockey News piece that pretty much sums it up: “I don’t see an urgency,” Waddell said. “They can’t go any place until July 1st. Most importantly, we have to make sure our plan moving forward is what we all want it to be.”

LAC - I’ll alert the folks who design the website.

Thrasher Ryan - No word on the schedule. All I know for sure is that my travel will include the beautiful cities of the Western Conference’s central division. I hear Columbus is beautiful in February. Also, Wings in 7 over Anaheim.

Legion of thrash - You are correct, that is Malkin.

Tony C. - Thanks

By Thrashers27

May 8, 2007 10:48 AM | Link to this

LAC,

Enjoy the new arena in Des Moines. It’s my hometown. I guess it’s pretty nice. Haven’t had a chance to check it out yet. While you’re there, make sure you stop by a “Tasty Tacos” for a corn flower taco. They rock!

By Ryan

May 8, 2007 10:54 AM | Link to this

Lets Go Buffalo!

By ZAvalanche

May 8, 2007 12:31 PM | Link to this

CC, thank you for the answers. I just realized that DW is in Moscow, so yeah, he can’t do much there. I expect him to lock up the RFA’s as soon as he returns and really start crunching some numbers with his accounting fleet and seeing what we can end up with, money-wise, come July 1. Hopefully he has taken care of the UFA’s and RFA’s by then so he can concertrate on some solid D and a standout C.

Hope the trip goes well, give out best to P&S!

Oh yeah: Ducks over wings in 6, and Sabres and Sens series is screaming for a game 7. Edge-Buffalo.

By Legion of thrash

May 8, 2007 12:40 PM | Link to this

Red wings and Sabres in the cup. Then you have the Buffalo Wings stanley cup!

By Russian

May 8, 2007 12:47 PM | Link to this

I hope Buffalo will kick Heatly’s SOB a*. I really want to see it. Detroit will go to Final!!!

By MASHAPlayer77

May 8, 2007 2:13 PM | Link to this

Where is Darren Haydar in the mix? This guy puts up great numbers in the AHL and is having a strong Calder Cup playoff. He may end up being a 4-A player (too good for AHL but not good enough for NHL) but let’s give him a shot. He may be a natural right wing for a strong #1 center and Kovy.

Look at Martin St. Louis…he was too “small for the NHL” until Tampa gave him a chance. Not saying Haydar is the next St. Louis but it would be nice if he ended up being a 25 goal, 70 point guy playing with the likes of some 1st or 2nd line talent on the Thrashers.

By Brendan

May 8, 2007 2:36 PM | Link to this

Ahhh, I’m 6-6 overall, and desperately trying to stay over the Mendoza line. Coming off a 2-2 second round, that’s pretty much all I can hope for.

I’m going with the Sabres over the Sens in seven games. I’ll take Anaheim over Detroit in six games, setting up what many said would happen in preseason: Ducks vs. Sabres.

Remember in the preseaon blogs, how I asked you guys, “Which of the Final Four teams (Edmonton, Carolina, Anaheim and Buffalo) has done the most in this offseason to ensure they return to the Conference Finals?” The overwhelming response from this blog was: (1) Anaheim and (2) Buffalo.

Well guys, pat yourselves on the back, you got it right. Anaheim and Buffalo are back in the Conference Finals. In case you’re curious, the last and ONLY TIME, since the current playoff format was installed in 1993-94, that two #1 seeds met in the Finals … was 2001. New Jersey faced Colorado, and Aves won, 4-3, by winning Game Six in Jersey and Game Seven, in Denver.

Since ‘94, here’s how #1 seeds have faired in the Conference Finals:

1994: NY Rangers, defeated New Jersey, 4-3, won Cup over Vancouver, 4-3

1995: Detroit, defeated Chicago, 4-1, lost Cup to New Jersey, 4-0.

1996: Detroit, defeated by Colorado, 4-2.

1997: Colorado, defeated by Detroit, 4-2.

1998: Dallas, defeated by Detroit, 4-2.

1999: Dallas, defeated Colorado, 4-3, defeated Buffalo, 4-2 to win the Cup.

2000: Philadelphia, defeated by New Jersey, 4-3. (Led series, 3-1, but lost.)

2001: New Jersey defeated Pittsburgh, 4-1, lost to Colorado, 4-3 in Finals. Colorado defeated St. Louis, 4-1, defeated New Jersey to win Cup, 4-3.

2002: Detroit, defeated Colorado, 4-3, won Cup over Carolina, 4-1.

2003: Ottawa, defeated by New Jersey, 4-3.

2004: Tampa Bay, defeated Philadelphia, 4-3, won Cup over Calgary, 4-3.

In 2005 there was no season and in 2006, no #1 seed reached the Conference Finals. The highest seeded team was Carolina, #2, who did win the Cup.

So, with 12 years of playoffs to examine, a #1 seed has won the Cup five (5) times. NYR, Dallas, Colorado, Detroit, and Tampa Bay. That’s closing in on 50% of the time.

And unless Ottawa meets Anaheim this year, some other #1 seed will get a crack at it.

The #1 seeds who lost Conference Finals were: Detroit in ‘96, Colorado in ‘97, Dallas in ‘98, Philly in ‘00, and Ottawa in ‘03. Again, that’s 5/12, or closing in on 50%.

The only two #1 seeds to LOSE THE CUP FINALS were Detroit, in 1995 vs. New Jersey, and New Jersey, in 2001, vs. Colorado.

It’s kind of an interesting mix. Number ONE seeds have won six times out in 12 years, but they’ve also lost five times out of 12 years. But when they win, they’re 5-2 in the Cup Finals.

Did this help any? I don’t know. But it was fun to research!

By Brian

May 8, 2007 2:56 PM | Link to this

Sabres & Ducks. Let’s go Buffalo.

By Brendan

May 8, 2007 2:58 PM | Link to this

Legion of Thrash, what then? I hear Buffalo likes their Wings hot. And that’s the last thing the Sabres need: Red hot Red Wings. Then again, Buffalo likes their wings fried to a crisp. That, they probably would like to see.

Unless I’m wrong, Buffalo has never faced Detroit in a playoff series … ever. Now, before you say, “of course, they could only meet in the Finals,” between 1974 and 1982, the NHL had many different playoff formats that saw teams potentially meeting each other in preliminary rounds from different conferences. One year, it was #1 vs. #16 and so forth. The playoffs weren’t solely Conference based.

Detroit has faced Anaheim three times previously in the playoffs, with the Red Wings holding a 2-1 edge. The last time they met, 2003, #7 Anaheim swept the #2 Red Wings in a gigantic upset. The Red Wings have swept the Ducks, themselves. But Detroit won three of those four games in overtime.

Ottawa, on the other hand, has never defeated Buffalo in three (3) tries. They met as recently as last season, with the Sabres winning, 4-1. Buffalo won three (3) of those games in overtime, however. If the Senators should falter again, Ottawa will regard Buffalo as the “new” Toronto Maple Leafs, who hold a 4-0 lifetime playoff history against the Senators.

Ottawa struggles with geographic rivals. Maybe Buffalo should mimic what Toronto does to them!!! It seems to work!!!

By Brian

May 8, 2007 2:59 PM | Link to this

MASHAPlayer77 - Haydar is definitely a AAAA player. He is too old to be thought of as the future, he’ll be 28 at the start of next season. He also was given a chance here before, but just wasn’t the spark that was needed.

By Brian

May 8, 2007 3:21 PM | Link to this

Brendan - I like the idea of Buffalo dominating the Sens the way the Leafs did, but the whole Ontario thing meant much more to that rivalry there that won’t carry over for a Buffalo-Ottawa series.

However, it was interesting that regardless of whoever won the NJ-Ott series, Buffalo wouldn’t have to travel further than 50 miles outside of NY State for a playoff game so far. Of course that will change for the next round…

By Matt H

May 8, 2007 4:12 PM | Link to this

I’m gonna go with Buffalo. I say they find what it takes to get it done this round. And right now, I have to give the edge to Detroit over Anaheim. I’d love to see the Ducks make it, and I think that they can, but I don’t see it right now.

Buffalo’s no lock either. The Rangers gave em about all they could handle (refereeing notwithstanding). But the Sabe’s have the edge in net.

Detroit and Buffalo have both shown a propensity in this postseason to ghost or go limp, despite depth, experience and coaching- but when they’re on they’re nearly unstoppable. The Sens are playing with great passion and hunger, I just don’t see Emery holding up. But who knows… Here’s how I see it -Strengths- Detroit-Experience (Killer Instinct), Defense, Goaltending Anaheim-Dominating Defense, Goaltending Buffalo-Coaching, Depth, Goaltending Ottawa-Passion, Scoring, Speed

-Weaknesses- Detroit-Inconsistent play, Injuries or Injury-prone, Age Anaheim-Inconsistent play, Lack of Scoring Buffalo-Inconsistent play, Lack of Passion Ottawa-Not at all bad Goaltending, but Unproven Goaltending at this level, haven’t been tested as much yet as have the other teams

After last night’s game, if I’m seeing one team raise the cup right now, I’m seeing Detroit. The way they played was textbook “Win-The-Cup” hockey. And if the Sharks can implode like they did, I could see that same implosion happening to Anaheim or Buffalo. I don’t see lack of fire being a problem with Ottawa. If they’re beaten, they’ll be beaten in goal.

Safe bet: Detroit Dark Horse: Ottawa

By Brendan

May 8, 2007 5:11 PM | Link to this

My only reservation in NOT TAKING THE SHARKS to win the Cup … was their Head Coach, Ron Wilson.

Huh? Wilson! He’s great! Ohh, yes … the resume looks good, on balance. But there’s something I never forgot, dating back to 1998, when he coached the Capitals. There’s one thing I think no coach should EVER, EVER say to his players. But Wilson did. He told his Capitals, “It’s okay to lose.” He reference a battle cry called “Junta Yo!” which loosely translated meant, “It’s a good day to die.” As in, “go out there and kill … but know that the person who winds up dead, just might be you.”

You got me, man. Shakin’ my head. Obviously, it’s understood that the world won’t end if the team loses. No one will be executed by the State. LOL. So, there’s no point to telling your troops, in the Stanley Cup Finals, “Enjoy the experience. Try your best. But it’s okay if you lose.” There’s just no need to say it. Saying it, plants the idea to the players to embrace failure. And a worse thing to tell your team, before it takes to the ice for a Stanley Cup Finals game … I cannot imagine. It struck me as odd then, and still feels that way now.

Okay, flash forward to the 2007 San Jose Sharks. Ron Wilson calls out Patrick Marleau by name, in saying he’s letting his teammates down. It hinders his performance and confidence. And the result, with their backs agains the wall, AT HOME, was to miss two wide open nets, and get shutout, 2-0, to be eliminated.

“Junta Yo!” Look, Ron Wilson is a good coach. He just picks peculiar times to say something foolish and sabottage his own team. The Sharks looked “flat” to me, for a must-win game. They lacked killer instinct and allowed the Red Wings to lull them to sleep. I’m not saying Ron Wilson will be fired. But if Claude Julien can be fired after 79 games by Lou Lamoriello, I’m not ruling anything out.

I hear people liken Ron Wilson as the “Marty Schottenheimer” of hockey. Great coach, but can’t win the big one. Something always manages to go wrong.”

When I saw Scott Burnside pick the Sharks in preseason to win the Cup, it did pique my curiosity. But I felt Buffalo or Anaheim was a better bet. I think the Sharks should just try again next year, and without making any radical changes. But this time around, Wilson can handle matters internally, instead of through the press/media. San Jose is still a very good team. A contender.

By luckydog

May 8, 2007 5:48 PM | Link to this

Yeah, the Sharks sure did turn into sunfish…hard to believe that was the same team that impressed so many of us when they manhandled the Thrash a few weeks back.

Watching the playoffs I am amazed — probably shouldn’t be — at the great defense being played, along with awesome penalty kills. A lot of the PPs look as F’d-up as ours did for much of the year.

These playoffs seem to be more about who gets shut down — our top line, the Sedin boys, the Sharks’ scorers etc etc — than big scoring bursts and highlight plays. Sure seems like the league has adjusted quickly to the new rules, defense-wise.

A lesson to GMs everywhere, methinks.

Ducks over Wings in 5. Sens take Sabres in 6.

By LAC

May 9, 2007 12:08 AM | Link to this

SUPER game here in Des Moines REALLY a Great time !!!!!!

Sterling/Hryder/Boris looked GREAT so did Krog !!!!!!!

Wolves won 6-1 and really dominated the entire game… I believe they will WIN the AHL… There should be a number of Wolves in Atlanta next season for SURE…

Cheers !!!!!!!

By Scott

May 9, 2007 2:49 AM | Link to this

I think Boris will be up with the Thrashers next season.

Also has anyone read any of the articles about how the Red Wings are having trouble drawing fans for the playoffs? They are blaming the economy but if this was going on in Atlanta the media would be ripping the Thrashers, the city, and their fans to shreds.

By Rawhide

May 9, 2007 9:21 AM | Link to this

LoT - Red wings and Sabres in the cup. Then you have the Buffalo Wings stanley cup!

That’s beautiful!

For the record,…I say Ducks in 7 and Ottawa in 6.

Don’t ask me why. Just a feeling.

By sisu

May 9, 2007 9:53 AM | Link to this

Kari get’s the start vs. USA

Boris will not be in Atlanta next year, more likely in 3 years…

Haydar needs a legitamate shot, not just a couple of games, more like 30 or so. If Pop does not play here next season the I would be shocked!

Sterling is still a rookie…hard to say if he makes it.

Nikulin will be here next season for sure.

By Lee

May 9, 2007 10:25 AM | Link to this

Craig, Thank you…and I am excited about seeing Little, Waddell said he has great talent and just needs some minor league experience according to him

By Lee

May 9, 2007 10:29 AM | Link to this

Oh, and Sterling was AHL ROTY, right? Everyone I have read thinks he will be a Thrasher next year, so that guy too. I would like to see Popovic down here too, I think he is ready. I know they are high on Valabik too, he is supposed to be a “tough” defenseman, so I look forward to seeing him as well.

By TERP

May 9, 2007 11:14 AM | Link to this

I want to watch the Buffalo/Ottawa series. Does anyone know of a good sports bar in the city? Thanks

By LAC

May 9, 2007 12:12 PM | Link to this

Boris in 3 years NO WAY… He was TOUGH last night !

By Brian

May 9, 2007 12:15 PM | Link to this

TERP - you have to be more specific when talking about Atlanta. Are you literally right in the city? Inside the perimeter, outside the perimeter, right at perimeter? If inside, Buckhead, Midtown, Vinings or Highlands? If outside, up 75, 400, 85 or southside?

There are some good hockey places, based on where you are I can name some. Taco Mac seems to be cornering the market from an overall standpoint but there are some good places that are only in one corner here or there.

By Brian

May 9, 2007 12:44 PM | Link to this

LAC - thanks for the updates…

By Russian

May 9, 2007 1:13 PM | Link to this

Kovy got one more assist in Moscow. Russia won 4:0 against Check Republic. GoooooD! :-)

By MASHAPlayer77

May 9, 2007 1:40 PM | Link to this

Twains in Decatur is a must hockey-stop! They have hockey jerseys hanging up and they have bubble hockey!

By Charlie from Finland

May 9, 2007 3:51 PM | Link to this

Lehtonen will be playing on Thursday against USA.

By Russian

May 9, 2007 6:21 PM | Link to this

Hossa is out. Slovakia lost 4:7 Sweeden. Damn! :-(

By sisufinn

May 9, 2007 6:33 PM | Link to this

Boris is not ready…plain and simple

By Brendan

May 9, 2007 11:33 PM | Link to this

Once again, the Russians have declined to sign the IIHF transfer agreement. Now what? They lose players for nothing? Or, do they think they’ll win the lawsuits that say these Russian players are property of their Super League?

By Russian

May 10, 2007 10:45 AM | Link to this

* to Brendan * They are idiots. Every countries sign the agreement except Russia. They want more money, but they will get nothing. It is a stupid idea. I glad to left those idiots 13 years ago. :-)

By Tony C.

May 10, 2007 12:11 PM | Link to this

To everyone:

Having seen how super-effective the Buffalo method is (everyone skates, every forward can at least think about going backhand), do you see the rest of the league adjusting to that style-the 18 guys who can all skate and just roll 4 lines, regardless of the situation?? I think Nash-Vegas had something similar, but they went away from that with the Forsberg move (he’s more of a posesion guy when you think about it). Specifically, do yall think that Coach will still stick with the one guy carries the puck and load up on the off-wing entry play??? (I hope not, I reckon that if a guy from the ATL burbs can see that’s your standard play, then some guy who’s whole life is hockey from Moose Factory GreatWhiteNorth can see it on film too) What changes to The System if any, do yall think will happen-do you think a change in personnel will facilitate a change or is that just the way Coach wants it? Personally, I feel that hiBob is sharp enough to see that the rest of the league is hip to the first five pages of his playbook and (hopefully) will make adjustments-certainly the in-game adjustment isn’t his long suit, but he’s got a whole summer to work on things now doesn’t he? If you had to pick a “style” to cop, what/who’s would it be?

Lovin the Worlds

By Kaladonis

May 10, 2007 12:59 PM | Link to this

I hope that Hartley stops changing the lines so much during the course of a game and the season. It seems that, even late in the season, there doesn’t appear to be any chemistry on the ice. Our passing has to get ALOT better and I think that player chemistry has to be a part of that

By wh

May 10, 2007 1:05 PM | Link to this

We have seen this before - A team with a different offensive philosophy has success and there is a belief that everyone follows. I give you the mid 80’s Oilers - not saying the Sabre’s are even in the same universe from a talent perspective. The problem is that you need the specific talent tailored to this system. After the free agent defections in the off season Buffalo will likely be moving more to a traditional approach as well (Note: Vanek is RFA and will receive offers as well). Having big forwards who can control the puck and cycle is still the most effective hockey - leads to PP (particularly with some of the new touch rules leading to 8-10 PP per team per night - which is absurd.) and below the circle scoring chances. Also, Buffalo’s ability to role 4 lines has been curtailed a bit in the playoffs - It seems that Briere and Drury are out there as often as any other top 2 lines. This is somewhat overrated anyway in that 3 solid lines with a spotted 4th can be equally as effective - particularly in light of the fact that 25%-40% of the game is spent on PP or PK where the specialists are getting the bulk of the ice time. The real key to success is having a Norris quality horse (or 2 in Ducks case) who plays 30 minutes a night and cannot be avoided no matter what line matching is attempted. I would think Forsberg under an incentive laden deal (in the event he doesn’t return to Sweden) would look pretty good in a Thrasher jersey. When he is healthy he is still one of the best forwards around.

By ZAvalanche

May 10, 2007 2:13 PM | Link to this

I like your reasonings WH. I am probably the biggest Forsberg fan around and I love the guy, but for what he will cost, he is definitely not worth it to the Thrashers. Man it kills me to say that, but it is true. You might, and i reapeat might, get 40 games out of him. And the thing is that you never know when those 40 are going to be. He is a liability to a team who is planning on getting him to be the player who ties everything together.

That being said, i have heard rumors that he is going to sign with Colorado and make it his last year playing with the club that brought him in. So then the Avs would lose Foppa and Sakic next season. Sad days when those two class acts, especially Sakic, leave the league. Ahh, i remember the good days.

By Charlie from Finland

May 10, 2007 3:02 PM | Link to this

Finland just won USA in the quarter final. After over time the score was 4-4 and Finland won the shootout 1-0. Jere Lehtinen from Dallas Stars was the only player who managed to score. Lehtonen was naturally brilliant in the shootout and all of the four goals were caused by major defensive mishaps. Very tight, entertaining and scary game. Finland led four times and always USA was able to come back to game.

By Russian

May 10, 2007 4:32 PM | Link to this

I am worry about our Goalie Number One. He got 4 goals. That is freaking BAD. I just remember our PO, 4 goals on 1-st game and 7 goals on 3-d. Will aybody tell me it is Number one Goalie???? I can not believe, he is a HOLE…. ;(

By Brendan

May 10, 2007 5:20 PM | Link to this

I just hope that the Russian players choose to come over. Remember, they pay no taxes in Russia. So, it’s their choice to leap continents to play where they’ll pay lots in federal taxes. And unless they wind up on the Predators, Lightning, Panthers, or Stars, they’ll pay state taxes, too. I guess the Russian goal will be to offer more money to the players, tax-free, to stay in Russia.

By Brendan

May 10, 2007 5:33 PM | Link to this

Well, in case you’re curious, I trolled around CBS.Sportsline, ESPN, and USAToday for “expert” picks. And here’s what I found. In the Anaheim vs. Detroit series, the split is 10-3, in favor of Anaheim.

In the Buffalo vs. Ottawa series, the experts voted 8-5, in favor of Buffalo. Ted Montgomery, of USA Today, NHL analyst, has been picking Buffalo since preseason, but suddenly changed his mind and has said, “I think Ottawa is destined to win in seven hard-fought games.”

How ‘bout Burnside, you ask? He’s coming in with an 8-4 record, overall. He likes the Senators and Red Wings to meet in the Finals. He’s the only ESPN analyst taking Detroit. The ESPN guys and gals are split evenly, 3-3, in the Buffalo vs. Ottawa series. Melrose, Cohn, and Buccigross are all tied for the lead, 9-3, overall. Maybe Burnside is just trying to pick upsets to make up ground? It bugs me when I differ from his picks. I’ve got Buffalo and Anaheim. ‘Course, I’m 6-6, and he’s 8-4. My consolation? (Poster) Russ, who is 11-1, has picked Buffalo and Anaheim. He went 12-3 last year. So, he’s pretty good at this. It makes me feel slightly better to have made identical picks. Well, I say Ducks in six. Russ has them in seven. But my Buffalo pick is in seven games. That’ll be a nail-biter.

Ovetime will be the key for every team that advances. It’s something of a rarity for the losing team to win the preponderance of the overtimes, but lose the series. It happens. Just infrequently.

Is it wrong to root against Dany Heatley? Before you say, “Yes! That’s ridiculous to root against him.” He is a former Atlanta asset now helping Ottawa in its bid to win the Cup. If Ottawa wins the Cup, will you be steamed about it? Or will you say, “Whattaya gonna do? Heatley’s just one guy on that team. Just like Hossa’s just one guy on our team. If we won the Cup, it’s not all Hossa’s doing, etc.”

By Sara

May 11, 2007 6:57 AM | Link to this

Brendan, Ron Wilson’s “Junta Yo” speech was actually a very good one. The whole point to the native american saying, is that you should basically embrace the worst case scenario possible and by doing so, it allows you to own your fear. If you are afraid of losing the game, your mind is not in the right place. You are tentative about making plays. However, if you say, well the worst thing that could happen is we lose, how bad is that really? So you shrug it off, and go out and play some hockey. And the Capitals did - they had a great game … well everyone but Esa Tikanen. ;) Anyway, that was Wilson’s point - to not be so afraid of losing that you let that fear mentally take you right out of the game.

By Bob

May 11, 2007 2:39 PM | Link to this

Buffalo still wins this series in 7 games even though they lost last night, I cannot stand the thought of having to watch Heatley in the Finals.

Ducks over Wings in 6.

Anyone have Lehtonen’s GAA and Save % for the WC?

By Brendan

May 11, 2007 5:32 PM | Link to this

Bob, Buffalo needs to turn things around and fast. I have the Sabres in seven, too. I don’t want to see Heatley blossom into the player we all knew he could be … for anyone else.

He’s doing just that. His goal essentially clinched Game One for the Sens.

Ottawa has lost a lot of players through the years, since 2003, when they were the #1 seed. (They were #1 seed in 2006, also.) Yashin, Chara, Hnidy, MacEachern, deVries, Hossa, Pothier, Magnus Arvedsson … but they continue to rack up 100-point seasons. I think six of the past eight years.

If Ottawa wins the Cup … and Heatley gets the Cup clinching goal … will you be happy? Or sad that he didn’t win it here in Atlanta, so he could dedicate it to Dan Snyder? Wait, that’s an unfair question, it supposes that Atlanta would win the Cup, which we all, pretty much, want to see happen. Who would vote against that??? What I meant was … oh ya’ll know what I meant.

Let me ask you this. If Ottawa wins the Cup, would you say that the Heatley for Hossa and deVries trade was instrumental to it? Or just a small part of it?

By Brendan

May 11, 2007 5:43 PM | Link to this

Sara, I hope you’re right about that. But if I were coaching anyone at any level, the last thing I’d do is talk about losing. Everything I’d say would be focused on what the team needs to do to win. And make every player state what their specific role and mission is in contributing to that win. One by one, down the line. This way everyone knows, crystal clear, what their duties and assignments are. And to be focused on them. Even “situational matters,” like 4-on-3, 4-on-4, 5-on-3’s, etc. Line combos and matchups. And, above all, strategy!! Trap, left-wing lock, 1-2-2, or 2-3, or 1-4, etc. Play your angles. Know who you want to hit and who you want to shadow. How you’re going to shoot on their goalie. (High glove, five-hole, low stick side, breakaways: “pusher vs. reacher,” etc.)

There’s so much to cover. I can’t even imagine when I’d get to … oh by the way guys, it’s okay to lose. If ya lose, you just deal with it thennnnn. Everyone ought to know, who plays competitive sports, that losing is a possibility. I’m not too sure how I’d feel about my players being “comfortable” with that. I’m jus’ sayin’. I’d keep positive thoughts and energies focused on winning through team play, strategy, and system.

I love opposing viewpoints, though. It’s good and healthy for everyone. :)

By Sara

May 12, 2007 9:30 AM | Link to this

Brendan, I get where you are coming from on that and it does seem kind of wierd to talk about losing in a pre-game speech. You’d probably just have to hear the whole speech to understand I think. I have it on tape (and DVD for that matter) - it’s part of the Championship tape for the Red Wings’ Cup win that year. And I’m sure Wilson and his staff did spend plenty of time during practices and other team meetings talking about roles and how to handle certain situations and players.

As for your question about Heatley - I am really really torn about that whole thing. It is totally petty but I just don’t want to see him win a Cup with another team. Maybe some more years down the road I won’t feel so bitter about his defection and subsequent trash talk about the Atlanta fans, but right now, still hits too close to home. That said, I know there are a lot of deserving players on that team and I’d hate to deprive any fan-base of their right to celebrate a Stanley Cup Championship (Colorado excluded) just because I have a beef with one of their players. But even with that said, I’d rather see Buffalo win it than the Sens, although that’s only if the Ducks make it to the dance. Otherwise it’s Red Wings all the way. (Old loyalties die hard don’t they. ;) )

By Charlie from Finland

May 12, 2007 9:47 AM | Link to this

Mikko Koivu (Minnesota) scored OT winner as Finland won Russia at the semifinal 2-1. Lehtonen made 29 saves and was selected Finland’s best player.

By Pucks n Snot

May 12, 2007 10:29 AM | Link to this

Keep picking against us, Gomers….seems to be working out real well so far. This Detroit team is setting new standards for resiliency and dedication. Nobody is going to slow down the winged wheel because it is rolling and won’t stop until it touches the Cup. Look at 45 year old Chelios schooling these young punks nightly…..Lidstrom picking up the slack and playing nearly 40 minutes a night without breaking a sweat to offset the rash of defensive injuries. Holmstrom - the most underrated player in the NHL - working his magic in front of the net to create big goals. Quincey coming up from Grand Rapids and making a signifigant contribution by playing mistake free hockey. Jeezus…I could go on & on. Must be great to know Waddell & Fartley are coming back to see to it that the TRASHers will underacheive again next year. That’s gotta be exciting. Another year of watching people skate past your inferior defensemen and pucks flying by your overrated goalie. Another year of Kovalchuk proving what a undisciplined PUNK he is and Hossa vanishing for week long stretches at a time. Another year of not being able to win more than 5 games in a row while being unable to avoid constant losing streaks of the same length. I would say you’re all welcome to jump on the Wings bandwagon, but you aren’t, because quite simply you don’t deserve to be associated with a team of this caliber. Stay down there and suffer through another season of incompetence and dissapointment before the team finally packs up and moves. While you’re at it - send the Hawks packing too….there are other cities waiting to take these teams and do something with them. LETS GO RED WINGS!!!!

By wh

May 12, 2007 11:16 AM | Link to this

Pucks and Snot - I see as usual you only slither out of that toilet Detroit during wins. Were you the one dressed as an empty seat? Lets get personal - You are a detestable pathetic weak minded punk. You don’t live in Atlanta, you have no rivalry reason to visit a board and spout our crap. You’re simply a tool. So enjoy the toilet you live in with your “health care position” - The toilet should provide you great comfort - Do you still wipe a* or do you supervise? Tell me all about your high roller salary also - 60K? wow - I guess you could make my car payment. Also - Please brag about your really cool life in the suburbs because you couldn’t afford to live in the City unless you wanted to ghetto dwell - 90% of the real estate. Don’t forget to mention your fabulous gambling vacations to spectacular Windsor. I encourage a response so I can destroy you in print and you will provide the entertainment a pathetic little fool like you was hatched for.

By wh

May 12, 2007 12:12 PM | Link to this

ZAv - I was talking to a friend last night and he seems to remember either Sakic or Forsberg not playing the Finals during one of the cup runs - Can you verify?

By wh

May 13, 2007 11:02 PM | Link to this

Pucks and Snot? Anyone heard from him since the REDWINGS LOST HOME ICE? You seem fond of the word PUNK - Isn’t that the definition of someone who can only reply to a victory - Game 1 of a 7 game series at that. I will take your silence after a loss as admission that should you reply after any subsequent Red Wing victory that you are beyond the laughable little cretin you have already proved to be. So by all means confirm this with another post.