Tag Search Results for "Kes"
Just something short, since i'm in the lab right now supposedly doing homework/research, but playoff hockey makes me much too excited to think about things like that right now.
First off - Markus Naslund played his best game of the season so far. No question. I hope he can keep this up.
Kevin Bieksa - 54+ minutes and 4 penalties. This guy is amazing. I expect a Norri...
So, I’m a born and raised Edmontonian that moved to Calgary 10 years ago to work in the oil patch. Living in the heart of the enemy‘s city hasn’t been easy, but for the most part the Oiler & Eskimo’s have done as well or better than their Red Rivals…. That is up until this year.
My defending grey cup champion Eskimos ended a consecutive playoff streak th...
Having just sat through 12 hours on campus, and 6 hours of class, I really don't think I can be all that eloquent right now; however, I will just summarize what I've seen from the Leafs in both yesterday's 3-2 OT loss to Edmonton, and tonight's 3-2 win over Phoenix.
HOT: The Blake/Sundin/Antropov line. This line had a great showing tonight, and was solid on the PP. I wi...
Former 1999 Penguins draft pick Darcy Robinson, 26, collapsed on the ice during a game with the Italian Asiago team. Robinson was un-hit at the time of collapse in the first period, and was later rushed to a hospital where he passed. The cause of death has yet to be determined.
Over his short career, Robinson spent time with the Penguins' minor league affiliates. From 2...
As most of you already know, Jesse Boulerice was suspended for 25 games after his crosscheck to Ryan Kesler's face a couple days ago. The question is, was it enough?
By terms of Chris Simon getting the same sentence last year, yes, it's a perfect punishment.
But by terms of Steve Downie getting 20 for an unnecessary hit on Dean McAmmond, Boulerice should have gotten...
[url]http://www.tsn.ca/tsn_tal...columnists/darren_dreger[/url]
A quote from the piece:
[quote]It's believed the Flyers would like to add a more defensive minded forward to their mix, a player capable of shutting down the oppositions offensive threats. Carter could be the bait to get just such a player.[/quote]
Someone please tell me this is wrong. For some time, ...
There have been a great many Sundin-rumours thrown around of late, but there is one that leaves me scratching my head. Sundin to Vancouver for a package headlined by Ryan Kesler. Why Ryan Kesler? Why is he the important piece to centre a deal around? I've seen him play and he doesn't stand out to me as an impact player. When people start talking about him like he's a seri...
I'm a Bruins fan who is longing for some bonafide scoring help upfront and I'm postive I'm not alone. While they have talent upfront and one of my favorite players ever in Marc Savard, most nights the Bruins just lack that game changer with the killer instinct to ice games away. In this current climate of the 30 team playoff race, two points are crucial...especially when m...
For the Canuck fans who follow them tenaciously you've most likely noticed that Alexander Burrows has been a marked man all year. There's always extra pushes and face rubs whenever he's on the ice. Cooke and Kesler are normally the agitators when it comes to trying to get temper tantrums flaring but this year it's Burrows who's the prime agitator.
Every team needs a pl...
I remember a few years ago when Bobby Clarke splashed the water with the whole offer sheet thing, with Ryan Kesler. Little did he know what kind of message that really sent. I believe that the NHL is now in a state of rebuilding, and long gone are the days where a player could just go to the highest bidder. I am going to focus on Kesler here, because of obvious reaso...
In light of the recent stomping incident involving Chris Pronger and Ryan Kessler, I thought I'd share the email I wrote to Gary Bettman (cc to Collin Campbell). I am simply disgusted with the direction this league is headed.
Dear Mr. Bettman,
If the current reports regarding the Chris Pronger/Ryan Kessler stomping incident are accurate, I feel compelled to voice my...
Why Not ?
Who would of thought 2 months ago when the Canucks were tied for 10th place in the Western Conference that with 9 games left in the season they would be within striking distance of defending the Northwest division that they won in style last year.
Let me tell you I for sure didn't, I assumed we were doomed with Nashville and Phoenix knocking at the doo...
A source [Who is a friend] not to be named out of Boston has emailed this to me:
[quote]Hey [My real Name will not be shown],
I was working last night at the bar, and one of the Bruins walked in!
He was only there for about a half hour but the media that followed stayed longer.
I was talking to one of the media members, and he said he heard a rumor that would send Ke...
Oh boy, Rumors Rumors Rumors!
What will we hear today at 4:00Pm Pacific?
The Canucks Have Drafted Kyle Beach.
The Canucks Have Traded the 10th pick and and player for the number 2 pick.
The Canucks Have Sent Ryan Kesler and the 10th pick for Olli Jokinen.
I am expecting the Canucks to take Kyle Beach, and [b][u][i]NOT[/i][/u][/b] make any [b][u][i]big[/i][/u][/b...
Current thinking seems to put Vancouver's top 2 lines as:
Sedin/Sedin/Bernier
Raymond/Dimitra/Pyatt
The Dimitra line above played as the first line last night against San Jose, and did pretty well (although they finished -1 as a line for the game).
If this line plays together for the whole year I suppose they [u]max[/u] out with the following point totals:
M. ...
I think it's time we take a moment to commend one Kevin Weekes. Next in line in a revolving door of backups to Martin Brodeur, Weekes is by far the most talented of Marty's little helpers, and is also the most understanding and accepting of his situation.
Kevin Weekes is the epitome of class. His predecessor, Scott Clemmensen--now unfortunately a Devil once again--used ...
First I would like to commend the Canuck organization for the impressive and sincere tribute to the late [url=http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3108/2537906452_2730d20d83.jpg]Luc Bourdon[/url]. For those who didn't have the opportunity to see the heart-warming display it began with two massive portraits of Luc on the ice surface. Tom Cochraine and Red Rider performed "Big L...
BluemanGuruu writes...
What to Do: Fourth Line Questions to Ponder with the Rise
Posted Saturday | Comments 0
We're early into the season yet and but a few patterns have emerged. The obvious one being the Blues penchant for falling behind and the other being they usually come back. Another pattern is the inability of some of our defense to make a good breakout play or pass. None of the D-men seem to keen on rushing the puck or making the move on the intial forechecker but are q...
Despite being outshot 30 to 19, which is not usually the case - in fact it was their lowest shot total of the season - and the Boston Bruins ran away with a 4-1 victory over the Stanley Cup Champs, Detroit Red Wings. Boston, second to only the Sharks in the current standings, are now holding an 8-1-1 record in their last 10 games, but the record has only been an example of...
I have read some reports that the Bruins are looking for a top 4 defenseman.
We know the Penguins are looking for a goal scoring winger.
It seems to me that the Pens have what the Bruins want and the Bruins have what the Pens want.
Would the Bruins be open to a Whitney for Kessel deal?
Whitney would get to play professional hockey in his hometown...that would h...
If there is one thing that I have learned about the Calgary Flames, it is that they can win ugly, boring, exciting; basically they can win any way they can win. Tonight they won with defense, which usually means totally boring. But tonight, there was a touch of exciting, meaning I liked a couple of goals the Flames scored tonight.
Before I mention the goals, let's ta...
Boston gm has said he has no plans on trading Kessel. The problem with that is they only have 3.5 million in cap space with 21 players signed. In order to keep him they must get rid of contracts to clear up the money. My bets are on Kessel is traded this summer. I really do not expect it to be soon though. Boston will carefully consider all options and will wait until they...
Phil [i]Freaking[/i] Kessel!
Could the Canucks actually have a chance to grab Phil Kessel from the Big Bad Bruins?
You betcha we could. We’d just have to be willing to give up a package of prospects (the Bruins can't really afford roster players in their cap situation) starting, but certainly not ending with Jordan Schroeder, for a 22 year old with the potential t...
If Phil Kessel is indeed dealt over the next 48 hours or so I find myself scouring the Bruins roster to see who actually can "Phil" Kessel's goal production void?
I know that Phil has had his droughts in his first three professional seasons, but since his benching in the 1st round of the 2008 playoffs Phil has scored 45 goals in 85 games while missing some time due to t...
Fly'n Phil Goalie nightmare Kessel, what are the Bruins going to do without you? Move on!!!
It seems unfair that with Kessel hanging in limbo there are other players that could be moved to make room for him under the cap. In making these moves it could disprupt the togetherness of the team. Especially if PC has to move more than one of his rostered players. Granted, Kess...
TSN has reported that Burke has re-aquired his 2nd round choice in next years draft. Meaning he has all the tools to offer Phil Kessel a contract. The yays and nays have been cast out. I say to Burke. DO IT! A future 40 plus goal scorer. Pull the trigger Burkie. I finally see all his planning with the Stralman trade coming to fruition. So Kessel would put on a leafs jersey...
I have a hockey draft this afternoon and I'm bored this morning so..........
Leafs traded for the Hawks 2nd round pick next year.They now have a 1st,2nd and 3rd for next season. Phil Kessel here is your offer sheet, the Bruins are over the cap I believe so they are screwed.
David Tyree nice catch in the Superbowl, that being said best of luck finding a new job.
Ha...
I think that the Leafs must have some sort of agreement in place with Kessel either that or a good scoop that he wants to play for the leafs.
At anytime now a rival team can offer Kessel an offer sheet and scoop the player if Boston decides to match.
Remember that Charelli can not trade Kessel for a year if he has to match. This would mean Charelli would have to dem...
With all this talk of trading a glut of high draft picks for Phil Kessel (1st round, 5th overall), discussion of 'draft pick value' seems to be the rage. I can't really beat the work Scott Cullen at TSN has done in analyzing the statistical odds a draft pick will make the 'big show' but I can throw in my two cents as to the value of draft picks to the Leafs.
When peopl...
It took sometime to manifest, prolonged in the wake of shoulder surgery and stunted contract talks, but the September 10th news that negotiations between the Boston Bruins, Wade Arnott and Phil Kessel had come to an impasse reignited the rumor mill that has surrounded the Leafs and the Madison, Wisconsin sniper since Brian Burke first tabled Tomas Kaberle in the infamous d...
The rumors are back. We had previous rumors from Ek on Tanguay and Frolov and neither of those came to fruition. No real concrete deal is being speculated here as to what the Preds would give up.
Jeff Marek from CBC Sports was just on the TEAM 1040. He hinted that Brad Boyes could very well be a Penguin by the end of the year and more importantly that Phil Kessel will ...
While it has long been thought that pre-season is an irrelevant showcase and tune-up for 19 out of 22 players and an intense battle between some 30 others for the last 3 spots, I find myself thinking it to be a little more important. In particular, for the Toronto Maple Leafs after 4 seasons of non-playoff hockey!
With the Leafs, the obvious logjam at defense has been ...
TSN is reporting that the Leafs and Bruins have reached agreement on a deal that will bring Phil Kessel to the Leafs this season.
Details to follow...
The Maple Leafs were $2 million under the cap before the trade for Kessel. They now sit $3 million over. I know Burke said he had the cap room to make this trade, but it is hard to see how. He does have some bonus cushion but not enough to make up the difference. Don't forget how important it is to have a little cap cushion. The Flames couldn't even get a full rost...
Reading the Tennessean, John Glennon reported Poile made an equal offer but they couldn't match what Toronto was willing to pay Kessel. If they made the trade then they would have been in the same situation as Boston and wouldn't have been able to sign Kessel.
Poile still says he is looking to add someone if the right person becomes available.
After a slew of 4 games in 4 nights and the first cut, the Leafs roster is beginning to take shape.
After the Kessel trade, the top 6 becomes a little more crowded but not until November!
With Ron Wilson’s comments indicating that Nazem Kadri is all but assured to go back to London not because of his play but because of his youth, we can now assume the Leafs will ...
The Toronto Maple Leafs have started the season as many non Maple Leaf fans would have hoped for losing their first three games with the possibility of making it four when the defending Stanley Cup Champions come to town on Saturday. The Maple Leafs have scored eight goals in these three games but is their any forward on the Leafs that scares any opposing team that faces t...
As leafs fans we find ourselves asking this question far too much as of late. Truth is, yes the team is struggling, and yes, the season may be lost. But would it not be sensible to suggest there might be more to gain from a season many are claiming to be over for the Leafs?
One of the biggest issues this season has to be the acquisition of Phil Kessel. Why have fans ...
This blog will basically break down a bunch of numbers associated with Shawn Horcoff since the lock-out, and look at comparable players/contracts.
[u][b]Horcoff since the lockout:[/b][/u]
09/10: 11P/23GP =0.48P/GP Playing injured, now w/o Hemsky
08/09: 53P/80GP =0.66P/GP Roughly 0.7
07/08: 50P/53GP =0.94P/GP Roughly 1
06/07: 51P/80GP =0.64P/GP Roughly 0.7
05/06: 73...
Toronto is currently in 13th in the East. They are only 2 points back of 8th place Montreal with a game in hand. While there are teams between the Leafs and 8th with games in hand as well, this is an undeniable turnaround for the franchise this season. Makes one wonder if they are a playoff team. I'm sticking with my preseason prediction that the team will finish 7th in th...
Toronto (15-20-9) at Buffalo (27-11-4)
Buffalo had a chance to extend their five game winning streak on Friday with a win against Toronto. The Sabres were also also looking to beat the Maple Leafs for the tenth straight time. Buffalo has outscored the Leafs 15-6 in the four games played this season.
Everything looked to be in favor the Sabres for Friday's game. It is...
There's no doubt that tonigth the Leafs looked great with the new additions. Let's take a look at each and then the future.
Fredrik Sjorstrom isn't supposed to be an offensive player, so an assist tonight on Kulemin's 11th of the season is a huge bonus. But the best thing about him jumping into the offensive side of the game is that it didn't hinder his defensive game a...
On September 19, 2009 the Toronto Maple Leafs traded away their first and second round picks in the 2010 draft along with their 2011 first round pick to acquire 36 goal scorer Phil Kessel from the Boston Bruins. Leafs Nation for the most part jumped for joy as the team had acquired a 21 year old sniper and top six forward for the squad. The Toronto Sports papers, radio sta...
Months after Phil Kessel was dealt from the Boston Bruins to the Toronto Maple Leafs the trade talks are still bothering me. I’m really tired of hearing both sides bitching and complaining about who got or who is getting the better deal.
After reading many of Maple Leafs and Boston Bruins fans blogs, tweets, and comments on TSN.ca, I can’t help but observe the comm...
This isn't going to be a super long blog...at least it's not intended to be, if it turns out that way then I apologize.
Tonight's game against the New Jersey Devils was an interesting one. Yet again Toronto opened the scoring. The Leafs had a lot of trouble doing that throughout the season, but since the deadline it's been all but a guarantee that they'll notch the firs...
Quick question. Would you dig a hole if you didn't have enough dirt to fill it? That is precisely what Leaf management would be doing if they finally trade Tomas Kaberle when his no trade clause is lifted during the off season. Most leaf fans and Leaf reporters see it as a no brainer to rid themselves of # 15. Their points (somewhat valid) are as follows: (1).Kaberle will ...
After showing promise after the Olympic break and a couple of high-profile trades the Maple Leafs have little right to take anything for granted and need to make continued changes in the off-season if they want to guarantee themselves a playoff spot and not a tee time in April.
1) The Ponikarovsky Deal
While I was disappointed to see Poni shipped to the Pens he is a pe...
leafs4f4 writes...
Uniforms Coming Sooner Than Anticipated and the Kaberle Saga
Posted Saturday | Comments 0
What a week, Leafs Nation.
After a slow start to the off-season, news sure picked up this week.
The last entry discussed this summer’s events for the blue and white, and surprisingly, the past seven days managed to hit on a couple of them.
The most significant was revealed yesterday by Howard Berger, regarding a certain press conference. As expected, the Leaf...
As most of us know, the first 8 games last season played a large role in the eventual further dismantling of the roster by Brian Burke and the team missing the playoffs yet again. With that in mind I figured it would be fitting to take a glance at the first 8 this season, and throw out some predictions.
We'll start by reviewing last seasons first 8.
Game 1 vs Mtl. 4-...
I heard a caller on the radio this afternoon talk about the effect that the Phil Kessel trade has had and will make on the Toronto Maple Leafs. I was a proponent of the Phil Kessel trade but I didn't think Brian Burke needed to give up 2 first round picks to do it since he essentially had Chiarelli cornered with the threat of the offer sheet (I know Burke lashed out at Ke...
A back and forth battle ended with Toronto on top. Nikolai Kulemin’s 2nd goal of the night turned out to be the game winner as the Maple Leafs won 5-4.
Nathan Gerbe scored on a penalty shot in the third period, narrowing the deficit to one and allowing Buffalo over eight minutes to tie the game.
With the goaltender pulled, the Sabres weren’t able to draw even. Bu...
The Toronto Maple Leafs are set to visit the Pittsburgh Penguins tonight at the Consol Energy Arena. The Penguins have yet to win at home this season and get another opportunity to erase that stat tonight against a Leafs team that is hoping to remain undefeated.
[b]A few fun stats regarding tonight's teams:[/b]
Phil Kessel: 2GP 2G 1A 3P is on pace for 82 goals and 1...
Tonight, the Toronto Maple Leafs will play host to the New York Islanders as they search for the fifth straight win to open the season. The Islanders are searching for their first road win of the season and hope to earn it tonight by crashing the Leafs winning party.
Tyler Bozak, who took a Phil Kessel puck to the face at practice yesterday, seems to be fine and will be...
Tonight, the Toronto Maple Leafs are set to host the Florida Panthers at the ACC, and are looking to erase a three game losing streak. While the team has lacked an ability to score after their first two games, Phil Kessel and Clarke MacArthur continue to be the team's offensive powers with little to no help around them. This has sparked line-up changes from head coach Ron...
Tonight, the Toronto Maple Leafs will play host to the Ottawa Senators at the ACC in a game that could be a nail biter for all the wrong reasons. For fans who are looking for a tight game, the Leafs have provided endless periods of "so close!" The Senators? They seem to be running down a similar path, despite blowing out two of their opponents last week with five goals for...
Some observations I have seen lately:
As Kessel goes so do the Leafs, it is no coincidence that Kessel's pointless streak pretty much goes hand in hand with the Leaf's losing streak. I think Burke has actually made some good moves with Versteeg and Armstrong, at the very least the Leafs are respectable but that scoring punch is lacking still. Macarthur is a good player ...
This is Burke's team, this is Burke's mess. Brian Burke had a hand in acquiring every player on our roster except Kaberle, Schenn, Gunarsson, and Kulemin.
When Brian Burke was brought on board as the Maple Leafs' GM, he had an aura about him. He was big and boisterous, he was confident and charismatic. He was our savior that was to lead us out of the JFJ years. Whateve...
Tonight, the Toronto Maple Leafs host the Nashville Predators at the ACC and are looking to finally sever their connection with their mistress – Ms. Losestreak. Nashville enters the match-up looking to extend a small winning streak to three games, while Toronto has lost their last four games at home. Their last win at home was also their last 2 point game prior to the st...
Originally posted at [url]http://www.sportsblognetwork.net/an-entire-leaf-nation-rejoices/[/url]
The Toronto Maple Leafs were finally able to exorcise some demons in a thrilling 5-4 come from behind victory over the Nashville Predators at the Air Canada Center last night, and the Leaf Nation faithful collectively breathed a sigh of relief. The Leafs team that started th...
The Sabres came out of the locker room sporting their vintage third jerseys, but as the players looked up in the stands, there was a good chance they were seeing just as much blue and white as blue and gold.
The Sabres put on a solid performance for their fans, defeating Toronto 3-1 Friday at HSBC arena.
The fans were easily drawn into the game early on due to the hi...
There's the question.. Will the Leafs pick in 2011 be a lottery pick. If so Bruin Fans can thank Mr Burke for single handedly pushing the bears over the top into contention.. 2 top 5 picks in 2 years? WOW.. Thats penguin material, Cap material... Oiler traveled ground... In my time on this earth I cant think of a more helpless time for Leaf Nation. Where would we be if t...
Tonight the Maple Leafs will take on an always tough opponent in the Boston Bruins. No trades yet as we inch closer to Burkes self appointed trade freeze. Rumours are swirling but I would be surprised if we see anything before the new year.
As for the lineup tonight, Lebda and Mitchell take a seat in the press box with Dion and co. as Aulie and Rosehill fill their spo...
FelixBester writes...
Toronto Maple Leafs: Ten years of trading away draft picks
Posted Tuesday | Comments 10349
With so much attention and discussion around the Phil Kessel trade and the repercussions it may have on the future of the Maple Leafs, I thought it would be interesting to go back 10 years or so and see what impact the first round draft picks of the last decade have played in the team's overall success and with the benefit of hindsight, has the trading of picks helped to p...
Well things in LEaf Nation are not any better then they were last year, perhaps Burke is still trying to clean up his blunders and the remains blunders left over from Fergie. Burke has done so far what he can to try and help the Leafs win some more games, he has upgraded the blue line and the goaltending, he has dealt player and got players and yes he has d...
As a society we are obsessed with comparison. Our insecurity is palpable and on display in a very public way. Social media like Twitter and Facebook while marketed as tools of openness and connection provide greater concealment as they are devoid of real intimacy, an essential component of most meaningful relationships. However, while they allow us to hide behind a veil...
Right off the hop I would like to tip my cap to Peter Tessier... He does a great job of contributing to Nuck Nation. Unfortunately I am a huge leech and it is about time I see if there this is the right soil to seed some of my own passion for my life long team of which now I am 38.
A bit on where my perspective comes from. I played hockey competitively until my second ...
Unlike many writers, who hide their inner fan behind a thin veneer of professionalism, I enjoy the world of the possible…and impossible. Rumors, the life blood of any fantasy artist. I often hear local radio hacks suggesting a show about rumors and possible trade options is a show wasted on the lowest common denominator. I say hogwash! It is you sir’s who are a was...
The Sabres were unable to finish off the road trip with a victory, losing 4-3 to Toronto on Saturday night. Buffalo, who were 17-1-2 leading after two periods, allowed the Maple Leafs to score two goals in the third period to win the game.
Buffalo outshot the Leafs 42-29 on the night, but were unable to tie the game in the latter half of the third period. Despite the lo...
Hey all,
Now, I realize that with a bit of common sense and realistic expectations it's pretty easy to take a stab at what the Leafs will look like next season. Yet I frequently see people making odd guesses/ projections for the team to then defend themselves till their blue in the face...
So I'm just going to write down the lines I believe most likely to be put out...
Maple Leafs fans we are just a few weeks from training camp, thats right Leafs Nation just a few weeks away from September and another run by our beloved Buds to end this playoff misery that we having been suffering from since the end of the lockout.
The Leafs have made a few changes from the club that ended the season in April:
In: Tim Connolly, Matthew Lombardi, Co...
As we start to ramp up for another action packed NHL season we also start to see/hear the many couch experts (myself included) start offering their opinions and projections for the race to April and what it will bring. Who’s going to jump out early.. who’s going to suffer the xmas slump.. Who has all the pieces to go all the way? It is worth noting that it is always su...
With high expectations from the fans, much of the success or failure of this season for the St. Louis Blues rides on the shoulders of David Backes.
Named to the All-Star Game last season, Backes racked up a very solid 31 goals and 62 points last season, all the while amassing 93 PIMS and a +32 rating. While not exactly the season many were hoping for from the team, Bac...
I've done this for 3 years now, with varying success, and mostly do it for entertainment... So flamers fire up your torches!
Granted, this is assuming Luke Schenn is signed for the start of the regular season, and banking on the roster staying as-is outside of that, but this is my lineup and predictions for each individual this year.
Also, I know I wrote a blog with ...
After the conclusion of the Flyers-Caps rookie game, several determinations come to mind:
1. Sean Couturier is not ready for the NHL
The bottom line is that he needs to add muscle to his advantageous frame. If he can get his weight above 200, maybe even 210, I think we'll see a significant improvement in his battles along the boards and in the corners. There is no do...
tml1967 writes...
30 Insane Predictions for the Maple Leafs upcoming season
Posted Tuesday | Comments 0
The 2011/12 Maple Leafs season is two days away against our arch rivals the Montreal Canadiens, the Buds will be looking to make the post season for the first time since the lockout. The club is one of only two clubs to have failed to do so (Florida Panthers the other) and will be looking to charge into the post season. Can the club score enough goals? Will the penalty kil...
With the sole intent of expressing my opinion and to raise enough eyebrows to thwart nasty responses; I have decided to write a blog about the Canucks as a whole. The organization, the fans, the forwards, the D, the coaches and oh yeah, the goalie..(s). I will break it up into a two-part series.
To be honest, for the better part of the last few years the Canucks have be...
We are now almost a month into the 2011-12 NHL season, so I decided to take a look at the top performers thus far and create the First Month All-Star team. The rules are simple every team must have a representative. Once each team has their rep then the best players are selected. I have selected the top 24 forwards, 12 defenseman and 6 goaltenders, while also selecting an ...
4blindmice writes...
Never underestimate the value of a proper NHL snarl!!
Posted Saturday | Comments 0
Obviously fans and coaches alike appreciate grit and the willingness to go into the tough areas of the ice, but what seems to be equally valuable, even if it is at a sub-conscious level, is the ability to curl the upper lip and stare right through a player as though you’re going to rip his heart out.
More than one NHLer has backed away from Kevin Bieksa after realizin...
It has been over 2 years since Kessel has been traded to the Blue & White, and ever since trade day (T-Day) Phil has been put under the spotlight by fans, media, and alike. I have no interest in evaluating the deal, as it has already been done to death, and the fact of the matter is that all players involved are either too young/inexperienced to play in the NHL as of ...
Its official: Its been one of the wackiest quarters in NHL history.
After the most tragic summer in the NHL in recent memory, maybe even ever, we have indeed had quite the first quarter of the NHL season. The Minnesota Wild are 2nd in the NHL, The "revamped" Columbus Blue Jackets are in last (
Phil Kessel leads the league in goals, 2nd in points, and has been everything advertised when brought to the Maple Leafs from the Bruins. Although he has been one of the best forwards in the league if not the best, Leafs MVP award a third of the season is Dion Phaneuf. The Leafs are in a position to make the playoffs for the first time in seven seasons has a huge part beca...
Hitch would have freaked out. He would have absolutely lost his mind. No one pinching. No one forechecking. Open passing lanes. Open in front of the net. I was losing my mind watching the Hawks and Wings on Saturday afternoon.
The St. Louis Blues play a gritty style of hockey. They take no shifts off. They put the opponent under pressure from the get-go and neve...
The next two nights are going to be tough. Detroit forgot how to lose at home and the Penguins have been on a tear as of late. These are two legitimate teams playing some great hockey. The Blues are going to have to play their butts off to win both of these games.....and here's how they're going to do it.
Jeremy Rutherford reported via Twitter this morning that the l...
Is it just me or did the all star break come out of nowhere? With less than 35 games left for each team we are getting into crunch time! First of all I'm going to talk about the first two thirds of the season. A lot of surprises regarding the leafs! I've had the pleasure of watching every leaf game this year and have come to one conclusion, were building something great he...
Is it just me or did the all star break come out of nowhere? With less than 35 games left for each team we are getting into crunch time! First of all I'm going to talk about the first two thirds of the season. A lot of surprises regarding the leafs! I've had the pleasure of watching every leaf game this year and have come to one conclusion, were building something great he...
Is it just me or did the all star break come out of nowhere? With less than 35 games left for each team we are getting into crunch time! First of all I'm going to talk about the first two thirds of the season. A lot of surprises regarding the leafs! I've had the pleasure of watching every leaf game this year and have come to one conclusion, were building something great he...
Is it just me or did the all star break come out of nowhere? With less than 35 games left for each team we are getting into crunch time! First of all I'm going to talk about the first two thirds of the season. A lot of surprises regarding the leafs! I've had the pleasure of watching every leaf game this year and have come to one conclusion, were building something great he...
Is it just me or did the all star break come out of nowhere? With less than 35 games left for each team we are getting into crunch time! First of all I'm going to talk about the first two thirds of the season. A lot of surprises regarding the leafs! I've had the pleasure of watching every leaf game this year and have come to one conclusion, were building something great he...
Is it just me or did the all star break come out of nowhere? With less than 35 games left for each team we are getting into crunch time! First of all I'm going to talk about the first two thirds of the season. A lot of surprises regarding the leafs! I've had the pleasure of watching every leaf game this year and have come to one conclusion, were building something great he...
Is it just me or did the all star break come out of nowhere? With less than 35 games left for each team we are getting into crunch time! First of all I'm going to talk about the first two thirds of the season. A lot of surprises regarding the leafs! I've had the pleasure of watching every leaf game this year and have come to one conclusion, were building something great he...
wgilligan writes...
Burke must be commended for not giving into temptation:
Posted Monday | Comments 0
It must have been hard for Toronto Maple Leafs President and General Manager Brian Burke not to concede that the group that has seemingly kidnapped his team and played oh so poorly in their place since their win against Edmonton on February 6th had to be compelled with the power of the trade deadline.
However Burke has managed to see the forest for the trees and has...
tml1967 writes...
Toronto Maple Leafs embarrass themselves and their fans
Posted Tuesday | Comments 0
This season is finally over and after a lot of promise and hope, the Maple Leafs collapse, which saw them go 7-18-4 from February 6th at the time they sat in 6th place in the Eastern Conference and dropped all the way down to 13th by the time the season ended, with the fifth worst record in hockey. What the hell happened?
We can point fingers at everyone in the organiza...
PauljBoychuk writes...
A History of Trade with Leafs GM Brian Burke- TRADE #1
Posted Friday | Comments 0
In this blog I will be examining and breaking down, the trades that the Toronto Maple Leafs President and General Manager, Brian Burke has made. I will provide brief anaylisis for each deal, and examine what the club got, and what they gave a way.
I will only be examining trades of a certain level of significance. Unless everyone would like to me to regail in Burke's ma...
I find it funny that the media thinks trading Kessel is a good idea because of his lack production so far this season.
Kessel is only in a slump; you know the same slump we see from him a few times a season. Just relax he will come out of it and put all this trade talk to bed just wait and see.
Kessel has not played a bad game hes just not getting the breaks. once he...
I find it funny that the media thinks trading Kessel is a good idea because of his lack production so far this season.
Kessel is only in a slump; you know the same slump we see from him a few times a season. Just relax he will come out of it and put all this trade talk to bed just wait and see.
Kessel has not played a bad game hes just not getting the breaks. once he...
I find it funny that the media thinks trading Kessel is a good idea because of his lack production so far this season.rnrnKessel is only in a slump; you know the same slump we see from him a few times a season. Just relax he will come out of it and put all this trade talk to bed just wait and see.rnrnKessel has not played a bad game hes just not getting the breaks. once he...
Through seven games so far, the Kings have played far from the level it had been during the Stanley Cup run. There is too much talent for this club to be where it is now. I understand all of the accolades; the team is still hung over, they are not 100% with weary legs playing until mid-June, they have a target on their back and everyone's gunning for them...etc, etc!
Pe...
2/4
Maple Leafs 1, Hurricanes 4
Why should I ever get my hopes up on the Toronto Maple Leafs?
The blue and white played well against Boston, despite getting outworked and out-muscled in the offensive zone. They did score a good goal that somehow was taken away from them. Chris Kelly plays for the Bruins, just in case you referee's did not know that. Besides the fa...
TheKingsGarden writes...
Prime Time for Kessel; Kings Shutout in Nashville
Posted Thursday | Comments 0
February 7th
[b]Kessel Finally Lights the Lamp with Game Winner; Kings Throw in Towel[/b]
[i]Maple Leafs 3 @ Winnipeg Jets 2; Kings 0 @ Nashville Predators 3[/i]
While the Toronto Maple Leafs were in the midst of a huge come from behind victory tonight in Manitoba, the defending champion Los Angeles Kings were pretty much throwing up the white flag after two perio...
Most other fan bases don't understand the suffering involved in being a loyal Maple Leafs fan. I couldn't possibly count the number of times someone has taunted me with, "1967". I cringe every time there is a team honoured at the ACC, because there will be only black and white footage, and people will be sure to point that out. A newsflash for all fans of other teams that ...
I will start off on a positive note: Kadri is lighting it up, leading the Leafs in scoring... from the 3rd line! Yesterday he put the team on his back and got his first NHL hat trick against the Islanders in a 5 - 4 overtime win. Don Cherry would beam about this and say, "I told ya so!", but I'm of the opinion that Kadri has developed into the player he is right now becasu...
[b]March 10[/b]
[b][i]Thoughts on the 4-2 loss to Boston...[/i][/b]
It has been a very busy last few days for me. My 7th and 8th grade basketball teams that I help coach at the middle school where I teach out in the Southwest Suburbs of Chicago were playing in a season finale conference tournament, while at the same time Toronto and Los Angeles both played Thursday. ...
royalgardens writes...
Leafs Bend, Don't Break vs. Bruins; Kings Return to Chicago
Posted Sunday | Comments 2
[b]March 24[/b]
[i][b]Maple Leafs 3, Boston Bruins 2[/b][/i]
Perhaps the Maple Leafs caught a break facing Anton Khudobin instead of Tukkka Rask? Be as it may, Khudobin came into the game with a 6-2 record and a sparkling 2.14 GAA and a save percentage of 92.5%.
Toronto also may have caught the Bruins at a good time, as Boston played with some inexperience on its ...
I write this blog while listening to Abbey Road - you know, the album by The Beatles. Starts off with the song "Come Together". Maybe the Leafs need a little bit of that "Beatles" therapy right now.
Last night started out well for Leafs' Nation. It was exactly as the pro-Leaf pundits such as myself had predicted: A bold forecheck leading to bad penalties against the...
thehockeypooler writes...
The Worldwide Heartbreak felt by the Leafs' Loss
Posted Thursday | Comments 0
I have been grieving over this loss for three straight days now. I can't get over it. But, finally, I am starting to understand my pain.
Allow me to explain:
The Overall Happiness Quotient (OHQ) in the Universe was affected by this game. More so, I would argue, than any other Sporting Event in History.
Think about it. When Germany loses in the semi-finals ...
The Maple Leafs have gone ahead and bought out Grabovski and have now left themselves almost 24 million dollars to spend. With the almost certain resignings of Kadri, Bernier, Franson, and Gunnarson the Leafs have far better options than resigning their 1st line centre (by default) for 1st line money. If we look at the money that will be spent on the RFA's that were just m...
After being one of the more active teams come the free agency frenzy, the leafs have settled down into a quieter role. Looking at what they accomplished so far, its hard to argue that the leafs have not become a more attractive team then they once were just a few short months ago. The leafs brought in a tough, scoring winger in [b]David Clarkson[/b] into their top 6....
After being one of the more active teams come the free agency frenzy, the leafs have settled down into a quieter role. Looking at what they accomplished so far, its hard to argue that the leafs have not become a more attractive team then they once were just a few short months ago. The leafs brought in a tough, scoring winger in [b]David Clarkson[/b] into their top 6....
After being one of the more active teams come the free agency frenzy, the leafs have settled down into a quieter role. Looking at what they accomplished so far, its hard to argue that the leafs have not become a more attractive team then they once were just a few short months ago. The leafs brought in a tough, scoring winger in [b]David Clarkson[/b] into their top 6....
After being one of the more active teams come the free agency frenzy, the leafs have settled down into a quieter role. Looking at what they accomplished so far, its hard to argue that the leafs have not become a more attractive team then they once were just a few short months ago. The leafs brought in a tough, scoring winger in [b]David Clarkson[/b] into their top 6....
For more on the Flyers Prospects follow [url]www.twitter.com/FlyerProspects[/url]
[b]Jason Akeson[/b]
[img]http://www.phantomshockey.com/Graphics/Layout/MainStory/Story/Photogallery/akeson3.jpg[/img]
Akeson's first NHL goal: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kROOd0z9--k
Akeson is somewhat of a curious case, as he started the season in the ECHL and ended it in the...
Many users have already written about the Scott/Kessel ordeal, here are some of the most important facts to keep in mind before stating your opinion on the matter:
- Scott was on the ice already during the Tropp fight and stayed on the ice
- Carlyle put Kessel out on the ice, knowing Scott was already out there
- Scott was going to fight whoever was put n...
[u][b]Three Things That Are Wrong With The NHL[/b][/u]
1. The 20-year-old AHL Rule: If someone can explain to me what the difference between a 19-year-old kid and a 20-year-old kid is, please do. I'm all ears. Don't say maturity, because I don't want to be lied to. There isn't any magical switch that happens for a person between their 19th birthday and 20th where a ligh...
While many of us attempt to get situated for this current year and hope to see a big turnaround, let’s pause for a moment and take a look into the future. Hop in the Delorean and let’s go to Oct 2015.
It’s 2015 and the Flyers are now ready to send Scott Laughton, Tye McGinn, Jason Akeson, Sam Morin and Anthony Stolarz out for opening night. The Flyers still have C...
What these Maple Leafs have lost since the offseason in speed and skill they have gained twice over in heart and leadership. The Maple Leafs now seem to take pride in wearing the blue and white. I understand that the leafs have only played well in 2 games this year (against Nashville and Pittsburgh) but they are competing for two points every game. This Leaf team is able t...
Phil Kessel of the Toronto Maple Leafs has consistently lead his team with one of, if not the highest points and goal totals since his tenure with the Leafs began. With this information alone you would be hard pressed to understand why then in a fan base so passionate about winning, many remain apprehensive in their support of this 26 year old goal scorer.
From the ver...
He is north of 6 feet tall, has amazing skating ability, has a great pair of hands, can pass, and shoot. But, can he take a face-off? This question will be answered in the coming weeks. If van Riemsdyk is able to be close to 50% in the circle then the Leafs might have found what they were looking for.
The prototypical number 1 center has forever been described with the...
The Leafs finally win a game, an actual win…that’s if you think winning in a shootout should count that is. rnrnA boring hockey game, a boring result, but that’s exactly what the Devils do to you. The Leafs were outshot again and hemmed in their own zone for long periods of time and no this is not a recording its an actual fact and as Ovechkin would put it “I swe...
Four centre's MacTavish should target
When I look at the Oilers roster and within their system they have some weaknesses. They need someone who can play a solid 2 way game for more than a limited minute role. They need someone big as the current Oilers have limited size. They need someone that will initiate contact. They need someone to be able to wins face off in their...
Four centre's MacTavish should target
When I look at the Oilers roster and within their system they have some weaknesses. They need someone who can play a solid 2 way game for more than a limited minute role. They need someone big as the current Oilers have limited size. They need someone that will initiate contact. They need someone to be able to wins face off in their...
Four centre's MacTavish should target
When I look at the Oilers roster and within their system they have some weaknesses. They need someone who can play a solid 2 way game for more than a limited minute role. They need someone big as the current Oilers have limited size. They need someone that will initiate contact. They need someone to be able to wins face off in their...
Before I get started on this short writeup, I do realize the comments that have come out recently and that there's MAYBE a 1% chance of this actually happening.
I'm totally in favor of the Pens making a run at Kesler. Without a doubt he's one of the best two-way forwards in the game and has one of the most cap-friendly contracts given what he returns on the ice.
F...
So with the upcoming NHL trade deadline looming, there are a number of teams with holes to fill and questions to answer. This is by no means a professional hockey writer talking, just some of my personal view and opinions based on the rumors that I have seen.
-Winnipeg:
The Jets have some really good young talent on their team. Their main concerns are goal-t...
Since the departure of Mats Sundin the Leafs have been barking loudly that they are on the hunt for a top line centre. From the sorry excuses of Nik Antropov, Matt Stajan and Joey Crabb, to the decent installment of Tyler Bozak the leafs have still not filled this gap.
I totally agree that the Leafs Defence needs to be upgraded. However, Rome wasn't built in a day. If ...
[i][b]The Elusive Finn[/b][/i]
Building on the success of the [b]Where's Waldo[/b] franchise and catching on like wild fire across Sabres' Nation is the [b]Where's Leino[/b][b] Drinking Game[/b]. The elusive Finn has been rumored to have made appearances in various Arenas across the U.S and Canada and has accounted for a substantial Salary hit for the Sabres, but can...
[img]http://i1.ytimg.com/vi/YJBErx8hGR4/0.jpg[/img]rnrnrnThe hit by Chicago's Brent Seabrook on St. Louis captain David Backes in game 2 was a clean hit that resulted in a game misconduct, and three game suspension for Seabrook. rnrnBackes was coming around the boards from behind the net. He touched the puck, but flew by leaving it in the corner to be picked up by Chicago...
royalgardens writes...
Many Decisions Lie Ahead in Toronto; Kings Game Six
Posted Sunday | Comments 5
[b]April 27[/b]
[i]Do the Leafs need a new coach or new Philosophy? [/i]
First of all, I do not think that simply bringing in a new coach and continuing with the same exact roster for the most part will pay instant dividends.
First, the team needs to decide what it will do with its goaltending situation. Everyone thinks that Jonathan Bernier was a "savior" for th...
The title really isn't as far fetched as you may think. Many, ok most, think we are a bottom 5 team. It is hard to not agree based on what last year brought. Hell the past couple years of decline. But this year has the potential to be different, and by different I mean not as bleak as everyone thinks. Here's why:
-New management +/- 0 call it a wash
-New Coach with the...
[b]Follow me on Twitter @DailyNHLGRIND
A Glance Back[/b]
I don’t think anybody could have predicted the outcome of the brutally nicknamed metro-terrible division last season. Columbus impressed while the Capitals faltered. The Penguins took a dip in the playoffs while the Rangers surprised many after a rough start. Other teams sort of slotted right into their right...
[b]follow me on Twitter at: https://twitter.com/DailyNHLGrind[/b]
The Avs held on for as long as possible in Toronto but we're unable to come away with a victory. On their 40th shot of the night the Maple Leafs came away with a 3-2 overtime win off of Phil Kessels stick
The game started off the right away for the Avs. Right off the opening face off Duchene drew a pen...
The problem with Toronto Maple Leafs “fans” and their rocky relationsihp with Phil Kessel is the vicious circle that’s created by the story-hungry media, and then perpetuated by this overreacting portion of the fan base.
One cross-ice pass that deflected off of Stuart Percy’s skate in the season-opener (he could be very good for a long time, by the way), and th...
royalgardens writes...
Maple Leafs Follies 2014-15; Cody Franson Must Go!
Posted Saturday | Comments 1
More Maple Leafs follies as the 2014-15 season gets off and running here in October! Plenty of new faces, still the same problems...
However, let me start with some of the good: The team did make several smart moves in the off-season to strengthen the bottom six. Adding veterans like Mike Santorelli, Daniel Winnik and David Booth (although injured again) brought in a...
Although this is an exciting year for the St. Louis Blues with the emergence of an up and coming star in Vladimir Tarasenko, the core of the gritty hockey club seems to still produce average offensive numbers. ...
[b][i]S-N-D & Company Must Address Blue Line Quickly; Trade a Player like Kessel?[/i][/b]
Good luck to Brendan Shanahan, Dave Nonis, Kyle Dubas and company, or as I will identify them as S-N-D & Co. from here on out. There is so much work that needs to be done to at least make this Maple Leaf team playoff-level competitive, I highly doubt that anyone can completely figu...
royalgardens writes...
Better Effort, Bad Bounces Almost Unravel Leafs in Beantown
Posted Wednesday | Comments 2
[i]Quick hits from tonight's game in Boston:[/i]
• Much better effort, at least in the first forty minutes. At one point the shots were 17-11 before Boston was able to the tie game off two really unfortunate bounces. Bottom line, despite the third period in which the Bruins dominated, Toronto deserved to at least come away with a point, but got two via the shootout. N...
royalgardens writes...
Maple Leafs 0 for Calif; LA in Danger of Missing Playoffs?
Posted Thursday | Comments 2
It sure is depressing coming back to the sub freezing temperatures of Chicago, especially from Los Angeles. The same can be said for the Maple Leafs’ current California trip, which has usually been rather successful in the last few seasons.
Monday night at Staples Center was truly a great experience however. My seats were just a few rows behind Darryl Evans, Nick Nic...
If the Toronto Maple Leafs are serious about rebuilding they need to be serious about the path they take in doing so. Sure, the return on a player like Daniel Winnik is going to be draft picks, but given the organisation's horrendous track record at the draft it needs to stop there.rnrnCan you recall the last all-star drafted by the Leafs? At this point the organization do...
So another trade deadline has come and gone, and Leaf fans have come to expect the outcome under Nonis' watch, which this time was predictably trading off pending ufa's and standing pat with the rest of the group. One entirely amazing, unpredictable, smart move that has shocked many in the hockey world has seen David Clarkson shipped to a money conscious Columbus Blue Jac...
So another trade deadline has come and gone, and Leaf fans have come to expect the outcome under Nonis' watch, which this time was predictably trading off pending ufa's and standing pat with the rest of the group. One entirely amazing, unpredictable, smart move that has shocked many in the hockey world has seen David Clarkson shipped to a money conscious Columbus Blue Jac...
In another bold move by [b]Sabres GM Tim Murray[/b], this one coming ahead of the [b]April 1st Mascot Trade Deadline[/b], longtime Mascot "[b]SabreTooth[/b]" has been traded to the [b]Florida Panthers[/b] for a [b]7th round pick[/b] in [b]2019[/b]. Initial reports by [i]SteelOpus[/i] from '[i]diebytheblade[/i]' have been confirmed, sending the beloved Cat to Florida ahead...
Thursday night the Blues head to the city of brotherly love to take on the Flyers. This is a precursor for next Thursday's tilt at the Scottrade Center. The Flyers have been strong ta home posting a record of 18-8-6 while the Blues have been extremely strong on the road going 18-10-3 and finding ways to salvage points like the game in Vancouver.
Both teams have been...
Over the next few weeks, while the Stanley Cup is finishing up, I'm going to be writing about possible trades that might happen by or on draft day. Many will be suggesting trades on forums, but the perceived value of players is highly contested, even among GMs. A trade is actually more likely to happen when the value of a player is over-or-underestimated.
So discret...
The long rumoured signing of arguably the best coach in the NHL today, Mike Babcock, by the Leafs must not change what the plan has been for the team. Shanahan had leafs fans committed to a long rebuild, which includes stripping it down to bare bones.
They said a lot of the right things at the press conference that it will be a long process, that there is pain in store ...
In this short article, I will discuss the top centerman with regards to two way play. Modern day NHL is much more focused on a two way game, rather than just offensive statistics. Advanced statistics have shown us the importance of players who can contribute at both ends of the ice. These stats are especially important for centerman, as they have so much responsibility ...
In this article I aim to outline the top goal scorers in the NHL today. Some players may be well established while others may be just coming into their prime hockey years. After looking over the list, I can already tell that many people will be upset by who made the cut and who did not. The top couple players were fairly easy, but the later picks became nearly impossibl...
Here we are on a Tuesday night and, yes, summer is practically over. Of course, I couldn't be happier. Training camp is almost here and before you know it, television will be watchable again. Although news is slow, the league is alive as ever with teams rounding out their rosters and players ready to compete for Lord Stanley. Here are a few things that are on my mind cur...
Luke D
It is never to early to get excited about the draft, especially if
you are a Leafs fan.
In 2015, the new-look Maple Leafs clearly showed that they are good at drafting because they went for skill and speed instead of size and grit and traded one of their most overpaid players, (Phil Kessel) for future picks and prospects. The 2015 draft was clearly a success...
Well now that the Vesey sweepstakes are over and the B's didn't land the much sought after college free agent a lot of Bruins fans are wondering "what now?"
They lost Loui Eriksson to Vancouver, they didn't directly address the need on right wing by signing someone like Kyle Okposo. They brought in Backes but is he going to play center or right wing?
The good news ...
IT was well known that Rutherford likes to be a gunslinger of sorts. It had to kill him this past year, with so much of a Cup winning roster returning, that he didnt need to make major trades, particularly at the deadline. I have to wonder if Botterill was able to reign that in, or if GMJR was just smart enough to resist the temptation to wheel and deal. With Botterill mo...
archromat writes...
A Trade is Like a Storm - On Marner, Subban, Trouba, etc.
Posted Monday | Comments 14
Storms are born near the equator of the planet and flow outwards. They are born from water currents in the oceans. They are born when low pressure systems get pinched by high pressure systems. They are born when accumulated water vapour creates conduction between two positive spheres in the planet, causing electrical exchange we know as lightning. (See Electric Univers...