12/18/24
March 30, 2006
The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly: The playoff races have been awesome to watch, and the last 10 games are going to be enjoyable for all hockey fans.
posted by wingnut4life to hockey at 08:47 AM - 53 comments
I have to agree with you there, Amateur. It's only the first year of the salary cap, so there isn't any parity yet. A few teams had to dump good players to get under the cap. There's always good playoff races every year, because there will always be teams on the bubble right up to the last game of the regular season. You must respect the Mullet...
posted by wingnut4life at 09:06 AM on March 30, 2006
Yes tight playoff races are nothing new - but it's always interesting to see which teams that get hot and play 'playoff style' hockey leading up to the end of the season manage to carry it through into the first round and upset the higher seeds. So which number 7 and 8 teams should be considered as dangerous? Anahiem looks deadly.
posted by WeedyMcSmokey at 09:34 AM on March 30, 2006
I would have to say New Jersey is the team to watch out for in the East, and if San Jose gets in watch out for them in the West. If San Jose doesn't get in, then my vote for the team-to-watch-out-for would be Edmonton. Vancouver will self-destruct before they even make a splash.
posted by wingnut4life at 10:02 AM on March 30, 2006
I look to the goalies, and Huet in Montreal has that look about him right now. If the Habs get in. Of course that is totally wishful thinking on my part, so don't pay any attention to me.
posted by Amateur at 10:37 AM on March 30, 2006
the last 10 games are going to be enjoyable for all hockey fans. I'm not sure if I could use the word enjoyable. According to my calculations NJ needs to win 9 out of its last 10 games just guarantee themselves a playoff spot. They really need some help right now from the teams that will be playing Atlanta, Montreal, Tampa Bay, Florida and Toronto. Yes, these last ten games will be exciting, but if NJ misses the playoffs, I won't be able to enjoy them.
posted by njsk8r20 at 10:56 AM on March 30, 2006
I agree that San Jose looks deadly - but I don't think that Edmonton is the least bit scary anymore. Roloson has been awful and this team has done nothing but blow third period leads since the trade deadline. NJ cannot score goals. I just don't see it. I think the world of Brodeur, but I just can't get behind the 22 guys in front of him. I think about Montreal in the same vein. They couldn't score against the Islanders and Huet had to steal one for them. He's crazy hot right now, though and anything can happen. But I'm not feeling the Habs either. Too weak up front and the D is spotty.
posted by WeedyMcSmokey at 11:21 AM on March 30, 2006
Can someone fill me in with the details of the controversial Scott Gomez shootout goal referenced in the article?
posted by holden at 11:34 AM on March 30, 2006
Toronto's missing the playoffs, and I'm still finding ways to enjoy the end of the season. I agree about Vancouver fading of late; I was kind of hoping they'd play Noronen in net, as Alex Auld is okay, but let's face it, he's no Roberto Luongo Dan Cloutier Peter Budaj. With a hot goalie, the Canucks have enough of the other tools to go someplace. Without one, they lose confidence and will die quickly come playoff time. njsk8r, buck up, little camper. I suspect the Devils will sneak in, but they won't go very far. In fact, I don't like any of the lower seeds in the East; it's going to be Ottawa or the Rangers, I suspect. In the West, I just get the feeling there are going to be a lot of six and seven game series. Whoever wins through will be exhausted and beaten up.
posted by chicobangs at 11:35 AM on March 30, 2006
holden, on Gomez's shootout goal, Emery had made the save but was still sliding backwards and went all the way into the net. So since the goalie was in the net, the puck must have been in the net. I think the controversy is because it took a few seconds for Emery to slide into the net, and some people think the play should have been called dead before then. Thanks, chico, I'll try to be positive. I think it is Ottowa's year myself (I really hate to admit it), but if they play NJ in the first round, I would like to see the Devils pull off the upset like the Sens did to them in 1998. In the west I'd like to see Nashville go far. That team is a good example of how a little patience and some smart trading/drafting can develope a great team.
posted by njsk8r20 at 11:56 AM on March 30, 2006
I think the controversy is because it took a few seconds for Emery to slide into the net, and some people think the play should have been called dead before then. The main issue is that it went against the precedent. This happened in a shootout a couple of weeks ago (I have absolutely NO supporting documentation, The Score just played a clip of it when reviewing the OTT-NJ game): the goal was waved off, and the call upheld in the inconclusive video review. In this case, the goal was called, and the call of course upheld in inconclusive video review. So the problem was a consistency one: the sliding-backwards-into-the-net was called a no-goal in the past, and a goal in that game. Man, I really feel for the refs. The shootouts are so full of lousy little details like that. Has anyone deked the puck backwards yet this year and been blown dead because of it?
posted by DrJohnEvans at 12:03 PM on March 30, 2006
So the problem was a consistency one: the sliding-backwards-into-the-net was called a no-goal in the past, and a goal in that game. Emphasis on the consistency, I didn't see the other shootout goal your talking about, but I did see one earlier this season where it was a goal when the goalie slid backward into the net. Sounds like the NHL has some work to do in the offseason. At least we won't have to worry about it in the playoffs.
posted by njsk8r20 at 12:13 PM on March 30, 2006
I admit I'm pulling for Nashville to win a few rounds too. They're a good team, put together properly, in a newish market, and it would look good for the league if they did well. And I want at least one fourple-overtime saga in these playoffs. I don't care who's in it. Can we make that happen?
posted by chicobangs at 12:28 PM on March 30, 2006
Playoffs are all about the hot goalie. Huet fits the bill perfectly right now, but he may be peaking too early. Tampa is obviously screwed. If I'm DrJohnEvans, I'm still worried about the Senators' goaltending situation. If the Panthers or the Trashers can squeak in, they're bound to upset. No love for the 'Canes from our little group... I don't think the Oilers will even make the playoffs. Sharks and Ducks are potent dark horses, although the Sharks don't have a true #1 goalie as of now. Colorado is an enigma. I still like the Flames.
posted by qbert72 at 12:44 PM on March 30, 2006
If I'm DrJohnEvans, I'm worried about the defence. Chara is hurt, Phillips is hurt, Redden was playing hurt but at least gets some time off for personal matters. And I'm worried about Bryan Murray. What happens when they come up against the slow-the-play-down defensive formula that's worked against them all year? I don't think Murray has the ability to get this team out of a goal-scoring funk quickly enough. I don't think Hasek will be the problem. He's due many millions in incentives for winning a Cup, and I think that'll be motivation enough for him to not be too wacky. Still, I'm giving myself an ulcer just thinking about the playoffs, and part of me just wants them to be over so I can go to warm and mellow baseball games. I'm a terrible hockey fan.
posted by DrJohnEvans at 01:16 PM on March 30, 2006
Chill DrJohn - they have all the needed ingredients. Why, they're sitting in the doctor's office right now.
posted by WeedyMcSmokey at 01:18 PM on March 30, 2006
That's the problem with expectations. If the Habs make the playoffs, I'll be happily surprised. If they win just one round, I'll be extatic. Where is Succa, anyway? Haven't seen him around for a while.
posted by qbert72 at 01:19 PM on March 30, 2006
No love for the Panthers? I forgot I picked them to make it this year after their terrible start. But since the Olympics they have been white hot, and I can see them making up the difference. And imagine how well Luongo will play when he finally makes it to the dance? Devastatingly well, I would wager. As a Leafs fan, I can't believe I watched two disgustingly bad games at Montreal immediately followed by two amazing wins in the Atlantic divison. Someone please explain what happened at the stroke of midnight, March 25, in the year of Dog, 2006?
posted by garfield at 01:49 PM on March 30, 2006
have read this blog from time to time. What do you people do for a Living? Are you in High School? Do any of you have jobs? I'm retired, so I have all day. I hope this doesn't sound rude. It isn't meant to. I really just curious. I am at work. But as far as activity is concerned - I believe this IS my job.
posted by WeedyMcSmokey at 02:03 PM on March 30, 2006
(Oh, duh, I just noticed that it's Barry Melrose. Sorry about that. Criticism unnecessary.) Melrose is God. Just ask him. Seriously though I love his comments and always go out of my way to read him. Besides he's right here when he talks about some players coming off the ice earlier then usual in games that don't matter as much. /Bows to the Mullet
posted by commander cody at 02:09 PM on March 30, 2006
have read this blog from time to time. What do you people do for a Living? Are you in High School? Do any of you have jobs? I'm retired, so I have all day. I hope this doesn't sound rude. It isn't meant to. I really just curious I'm semi-retired and work from home, though my wife describes me as a bum. Except of course when she realizes I do all the cooking, cleaning, laundry, etc., etc., etc.
posted by commander cody at 02:14 PM on March 30, 2006
I have read this blog from time to time. What do you people do for a Living? Are you in High School? Do any of you have jobs? I'm retired, so I have all day. I hope this doesn't sound rude. It isn't meant to. I really just curious. I own a sports cards and memorabilia store, so I write all this off as valuable market research. Unfortunately, it does cut into my time spent searching for ripped Christy Canyon movies and bootleg Neil Young.
posted by wfrazerjr at 02:55 PM on March 30, 2006
Work? What work? Please quit flinging that dirty four letter word around.
posted by willthrill72 at 03:09 PM on March 30, 2006
Someone please explain what happened at the stroke of midnight, March 25, in the year of Dog, 2006? Aubin? TSN had an interesting thing yesterday showing that if there wasn't an overtime loss point awarded, the eastern conference standings for the top 8 teams would be exactly the same. In the west, however, Los Angeles would be in the playoffs and Edmonton out. But, there's still time... and I'm still waiting for the day a team is 1 point ahead of 8th place and two on 9th when both of those other teams are playing their last game against each other. Guaranteed playoff entry, right? Well, game goes into overtime, both team get a point and tie breaker kicks the first team out. As much as it'd suck for that team, I would SO like to see it so that it becomes painfully obvious that this system sucks. But, uh, fear Calgary. They're barely in the playoffs as it is, but when they do make it, watch out.
posted by mkn at 03:24 PM on March 30, 2006
What do you people do for a Living? Actually, I'm a factory worker. I'm a Ford contracted employee that works at Fords no wait it's called Visteon nope, now it's Automotive Components Holdings. I have actually been laid off for going on seven weeks now, but I should be going back to work monday. My wife work(ed) at the same plant, but she is taking the $100,000 buyout and getting boobs (woo hoo!). I know that number looks good on paper, but it's only about 64 to 65 grand after taxes. I'm gonna track down that dude FICA and kick his ass for taking all of that money! But seriously, that money is going to that fucker named Bill. I wish he would stop sending me mail!
posted by wingnut4life at 03:27 PM on March 30, 2006
Your wife is getting boobs? She doesn't have any now?
posted by wfrazerjr at 03:39 PM on March 30, 2006
She wants them to feel more secure. She says the kids wreaked havoc on them, and she just wants to go back to what they looked like. Personally, I'm not really into the plastique, but if it makes her happy, then I'm happy. Besides, I'm an 'ass man.'
posted by wingnut4life at 03:42 PM on March 30, 2006
My wife work(ed) at the same plant, but she is taking the $100,000 buyout and getting boobs (woo hoo!). Why, that's a gift for everyone... Unless your wife is named Ed.
posted by WeedyMcSmokey at 03:42 PM on March 30, 2006
Nope. Ed's my man on the side, and he's got great man-boobs.
posted by wingnut4life at 03:44 PM on March 30, 2006
I'm not a big fan of the fake ones either, but if it really bothers your wife, having a little work done will perk her right up, I bet -- emotionally and literally. Oh, and -- this (part of the) thread is worthless without pictures!
posted by wfrazerjr at 03:50 PM on March 30, 2006
Oh, and -- this (part of the) thread is worthless without pictures! Oh yeah, a before and after. And I'm not talking about Ed.
posted by njsk8r20 at 03:57 PM on March 30, 2006
Um....you are going to post a pic of the results...aren't you? I mean I'd post a picture of my new car if I had one so.....
posted by commander cody at 03:58 PM on March 30, 2006
bootleg Neil Young I want some of that! Oh, and yeah, McSmokey -- Roloson really sucks, much like everyone I know predicted he would.
posted by fabulon7 at 04:06 PM on March 30, 2006
Anyone watching NYRvsOTT on MSG at the moment (since the start of the second)? I'm getting this crazy audio distortion that kinda sounds like some genus of industrial techno...or something. Crazy shit, that.
posted by garfield at 07:40 PM on March 30, 2006
I am, garf. No problems with the signal here. (We are, of course, watching different feeds, but, well, yeah.) Feisty game, too!
posted by chicobangs at 07:42 PM on March 30, 2006
Oh yeah. McGrattan just pummelled Ott's head. He even looked like he was out for a second there after another double to the noggin. It looks like Spezza's hip is ok. His goal was a ripper. And I don't who it was, but during the second 5-on-3 the defender at the right point couldn't sit the puck down if he was chewing gum and asking "How many? Smoking or non?" Yipes!
posted by garfield at 07:50 PM on March 30, 2006
All right guys, here's a picture... 
And I'm not talking about Ed.
posted by wingnut4life at 08:08 PM on March 30, 2006
garf, i'm getting the crazy audio distortion too.
posted by goddam at 08:40 PM on March 30, 2006
And I'm not talking about Ed. AAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!!!!!! I just finished eating for God's sake!
posted by commander cody at 09:48 PM on March 30, 2006
No love for the 'Canes from our little group... Yeah, where the hell is NoMich? And nobody has even mentioned Philly, no love for them either. Where's Hater and GoBirds? Speaking of such things, it would be interesting to see how many of the 30 teams are represented by Spofi Nation. There seams to be no shortage of Toronto, NY Rangers, and Red Wing fans. I got NJ covered, Doc has Ottowa, qbert has Montreal, Carolina and Philly are covered. I know there's a couple Chicago fans. That still leaves 21 other teams.
posted by njsk8r20 at 12:13 AM on March 31, 2006
Yeah well, fuck the lot of you. I'm still hoping that all of our Finns are still hellbent on getting revenge for that Gold Medal game. What, second in the West gets no merit? And since the S-word has yet to be spoken, and fear us lest you forget... Go Stars! sorry for coming off as awfully homer-ish. The Stars/Ducks game last night was awfully feisty as well. That was a fun watch.
posted by Ufez Jones at 12:25 AM on March 31, 2006
I've noticed that there are some Blues fans. As for the playoffs, I think that as in other years at least one of the teams that makes it will be riding the hot goalie and a low seed.
posted by Ying Yang Mafia at 05:11 AM on March 31, 2006
The Good Rangers lost last night The Bad Philly still rests in the 5 hole with a first round match up with the sabres The Ugly Rooting for the Sens last night, stupid close Atlantic division.
posted by HATER 187 at 07:31 AM on March 31, 2006
All I've got to say is if there's a hot goalie, measure his friggin' pads!
posted by wingnut4life at 08:13 AM on March 31, 2006
goddam, how trippy was that? I think it stopped sometime in the third period. My guess is the crew was jamming to tunes at an away game through some mixer board and it was bleeding over to the game broadcast.
posted by garfield at 10:09 AM on March 31, 2006
yeah, you're probably right. it sounded like a washing machine stuck on the spin cycle.
posted by goddam at 10:34 AM on March 31, 2006
Where is Succa, anyway? Haven't seen him around for a while. I'm here! Sporadically, but here! Grum sucks! My Sens are looking good. The injuries are a concern, yes, but they're all expected to be back for the playoffs, plus a bonus Havlat. There doesn't seem to be any one first-round matchup I'd favour over the others. NJ just isn't the same NJ. Tampa looks about as intimidating as a sack of orange peel. But now that I live in Montreal, a Sens-Habs battle might be fun... Looking at the standings right now, I can't see much changing, but since there's bound to be one surprise finisher I'm gonna say San Jose will make it at the expense of the Oil. Two games in hand, and their schedule isn't too bad. In any case, the Western matchups are a lot more intriguing. I'll give the Stars some props. Shootout wins aren't real wins though, everybody knows that. ;-)
posted by Succa at 03:00 PM on March 31, 2006
now that I live in Montreal, a Sens-Habs battle might be fun... We'd need to get together for sure. Could very well happen.
posted by qbert72 at 03:08 PM on March 31, 2006
Good: New Jersey beat philly today 4-1, with goals from 3 different lines. Bad: I don't know, I'm trying to stay positive. Ugly: Buffalo, the Leafs scored 5 goals in the 1rst period, 4 in the first 6 minutes.
posted by njsk8r20 at 06:51 PM on April 01, 2006
Doesn't anybody think that the whole "rivalry-based" scheduling format has a lot to do with the tight races, maybe even more-so than the cap? ...how many of the 30 teams are represented by Spofi Nation. There seams to be no shortage of Toronto, NY Rangers, and Red Wing fans. I got NJ covered, Doc has Ottowa, qbert has Montreal, Carolina and Philly are covered. I know there's a couple Chicago fans. That still leaves 21 other teams. Go Ducks! That leaves 20.
posted by captaincavegirl at 06:57 PM on April 01, 2006
The Stars and Blues were also mentioned, so that leaves 18. I'm not sure if the schedule has made for the tight races though. I mean look at the bottom of the eastern conference, TB, NJ, and Montreal are all from different divisions.
posted by njsk8r20 at 07:20 PM on April 01, 2006
We'd need to get together for sure. Could very well happen. Where do you go to catch the games in this town? I took a friend to the Peel Pub for the Habs/Leafs game last weekend... and I confess that it was awesome. Great crowd, total debauchery, bad food, ugly women, and drunkenness. But I'm never going again. Unless the Habs play the Sens in the playoffs.
posted by Succa at 09:06 PM on April 04, 2006
Excellent and accurate description of the Peel Pub experience. Games are available in pretty much any bar. I'm not much of a go-to-the-pub-to-watch-the-game type of guy, so I'm not the best guy to direct you around. gspm and I had a similar discussion about game spots during the Olympics, and I was of little help. I say if there is an Ottawa-Montreal series, we turn into a two-week long "tournée des grands ducs" (bar hopping). Then we'll find some good spots for sure.
posted by qbert72 at 10:31 AM on April 05, 2006
The tight playoff races are a perfect example of how the new salary cap has been successful. Uh, what? We never had tight playoff races before? I must have imagined them. (Oh, duh, I just noticed that it's Barry Melrose. Sorry about that. Criticism unnecessary.)