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Just like Imus' comments on the Rutgers women's basketball team, I'm sure I'll take some major heat from hockey purists with what I'm about to say. [b]To be honest, I'm not much of a fan of the playoffs.[/b] It's actually quite uninteresting to me(probably because of the old days of watching the Wings and Coyotes play each other for two or three years in the mid-90's) unt...
On the eve of Game 1 of the Stanley Cup Playoffs for the Calgary Flames there are many questions to answer. Can Kipper put this team on his back and take down the mighty Wings in Round 1? Can Jarome Iginla be the superstar he is and light it up against a talented Red Wings Team? Can Calgary outmuscle and outscore the #1 Seed in the West? Can Alex Tanguay be the complim...
Welcome fellow hockey/bruins fans. Here I will be posting my thoughts and wishes for the Bruins organization, the NHL and my thoughts on Fantasy Hockey. I will try to update this a few times a week. First thought, THE PLAYOFFS start tonight! Series I am looking forward to most is San Jose vs. Nashville. This could turn out to one great series. I still think the...
David Singleton writes...

Things Do Change...

Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
[b](Originally Posted 4/9/07 on [url]http://www.PredNation.com[/url])[/b] Flashback to last season: the Nashville Predators were coming off their best season in franchise history and were going into the playoffs with the fourth seed and home-ice advantage against one of the hottest teams in the league in San Jose. There were questions due to the injuries to Vokoun, Su...
Thanks to Ek and Hockeybuzz for this addition to the best hockey site in the world! As I sit on the morning of our third trip seaching for the cup I have mixed emotions. As a Preds fan, two months ago I was ready to take on the world with full confidence that we would go all the way. All that changed on the night of March 31 when we played the most uninspired game ...
Homer writes...

Take Your Pick

Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
The best time of the year has arrived. PLAYOFF HOCKEY!! Every night for the next two months players will be diving in front of 90 mph slap shots, banging in the corner with people 50 pounds heavier than they are and scoring huge goals that they and their fans will not soon forget. Take a deep breathe, stock the fridge with some adult beverages and enjoy the ride. Pred...
Appeared originally on PredNation.com: To say that all eyes will be on Nashville in the first round of the Stanley Cup playoffs wouldn't be an understatement. Games 3 through 7 will be nationally broadcast on the Versus network, marking the first time in team history that consecutive games will be on national TV. Contrast that schedule with the Anaheim/Minnesota seri...
mojoworld writes...

And so it begins...

Posted Wednesday | Comments 1
Yeah, I know, not a very original title, but it's the truth. It all begins tonight, the illustrious challenge for hockey's greatest prize. Enough babble. Onto the games tonight. I'm a fan, yes, duh, of the Canucks, but sports would never be the same if there was not some fantasy or predictive element. Besides cheering for your team, how many times have you said to y...
Since the Canes aren't defending the Cup this spring, it's easy for me to make predictions. I think Buffalo and Ottawa are the two best teams in the East, and I hope there's at least one upset (probably the Rangers over the Thrash) that will allow the Sabres and Sens to meet in the East final. I think that would be a great series, and I think Buffalo will win it. So I'm go...
In today’s watered-down version of the National Hockey League, it can be easy to forget that in 1966-67, there were only six teams fighting for the chance to raise the Stanley Cup to the rafters. In fact, there were only 28 teams in all of professional hockey, including the American, Western, and Central leagues. That means two full teams of NHL players today would have ...
kidaloisio writes...

An Empty Spring

Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
For the first time in years... For the first time ever, the Wachovia center will be without the thrill and rush that is Flyers playoff hockey. It truly is a sad spring in the Philadelphia area. If anything it makes me appreciate just how good we've been for the past 12+ years. The one thing that makes me excited for next fall is not the core of young guys, or the solidifi...
curiousgeorge writes...

Predictions, Round 1

Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
For your reading pleasure: Western Conference Detroit over Calgary in 6 Anaheim over Minnesota in 6 Vancouver over Dallas in 5 San Jose over Nashville in 6 Eastern Conference Buffalo over Islanders in 5 (should go with a sweep...but will throw the Island a bone) New Jersey over Tampa Bay in 6 Rangers over Atlanta in 5 Ottawa over Pittsburgh in 7 Take t...
kehmesis writes...

A "Wild" prediction

Posted Wednesday | Comments 1
The new champions are going to be the Minnesota Wild. There's a reason the Wild is the most underrated team in the playoffs. Gaborik got injured. Have you seen their records with Gaborik in the lineup? They simply don't lose. They also have the best defensive minded coach in the NHL, if not the best coach period. Any goalie that plays for them just... makes the sa...
jergreen writes...

Flip The Switch

Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
Time to add my two cents into the play-off fray. I love the play-offs, and the addition of play-off pools has only heightened my enthusiasm for this time of year. (I have 7 play-off pools) I've spent the last few days being bombarded by "experts" picking play-off winners and analyzing every facet of every match up. Its a toss up whether a team is better off with all...
While neither of these guys will score a goal this post season (yes I know it’s possible but highly improbable) they can, without a doubt, determine how far their teams go. San Jose will start the series with Evgeni Nabakov between the pipes. The former Calder Trophy winner is one of the top back stops in the NHL and can be a huge difference maker in games. TSN.CA ...
ladynic writes...

Welcome one and all

Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
HI everyone and welcome to my blog. I sometimes have brilliant things to say and sometimes I just muddle on through. Right now I am suffering through hockey hell; my Flyers not being in the playoffs. I have moved onto my secondary and tertiary teams the Preds and the Flames. I am just glad to have Center ice and be able to watch playoff hockey. I hope...
writes...

Predictions

Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
With the playoffs underway, I would love to hear some of your guy's predictions. Here are mine: [b]Buffalo Sabers vs. New York islanders[/b] I feel the Islanders will pull it out, mainly because of Dubielewicz, but it's hard to go against the Sabers. Sorry Buffalo fans but I got to go with the Islanders. New York in 7 [b]New Jersey Devils vs Tampa Bay Lightning...
after seeing his Scott Hartnell's knee to knee take out of Johnthan Cheechoo, i hope this wake's up the anti-fighting crowd in NHL. Hartnell disgraceful hit on Cheechoo was dirty and thugish. Hartnell and other no name players know they can get away with this crap throughout the NHL because of the instagator rule. This hit also shows that players have zero respect for ...
A late game rally by the Nashville Predators set up a thrilling finish in game #1 of the Western Conference quarterfinals between the Preds and the Sharks. San Jose held a 4-2 lead with 10:00 to go in the 3rd but 2 goals in the last 7 minutes by Alex Radulov's 2nd of the game and J.P Dumonts 2nd of the game with just under a minute to go sent the game to overtime. Noth...
As a Canadian I was able to watch Sens-Pens and Preds-Sharks early tonight. I have to say I was very disappointed to see that the referees went back to last fall's calls. I agree that clutching and grabbing needs to go in the game, but a majority of the calls made in those two games tonight were absolutely ridiculous. Tootoo's hit in the first period was not a penalty, Cro...
briere2112 writes...

Playoff Predictions

Posted Wednesday | Comments 1
Hey, this is my first blog. I made these predictions for all of the playoff rounds so I thought I would share them with you. Note that these were made before the games tonight. [u][b]Eastern Conference Quarterfinals[/b][/u] [b]1. Buffalo (4-2)[/b] vs. 8. NYI [b]2. New Jersey (4-1)[/b] vs. 7. Tampa Bay 3. Atlanta vs. [b]6. NYR (4-2)[/b] 4. Ottawa vs. [b]5. Pittsbur...
VlasicRadulov writes...

Captain, oh my Captain !

Posted Thursday | Comments 1
Unbelievable. Jaw dropping. What else can I say? This is my first blog ; there will be plenty of time to complain later, to get angry, bite, stir some s***, ask questions, but not tonight. There's a magic feeling each year to Day 1 of the Playoffs, and there are games that do nothing else but confirm this magic. As many were ready for Episode 1 of the "He saved the N...
If any word describes tonight, it is the word draining. Physical, emotional, and mentally just a draining game. If the fans and media are drained, I can only imagine what it must be like for both teams right now. That was a classic game for the Nashville Predator history books. Even though the Preds lost, there is still much to be positive about: 1. Coming back ...
Ok that was sarcasm. Every year, I think I forget just how good playoff hockey is. The playoffs are only one day old, and we've already seen a double OT game, followed up by a Quadruple OT game. (I started writing this blog during the second OT assuming the game would end soon.) We watched San Jose lose last years leading goal scorer, and then lose a 2 goal lead in the ...
sstrang writes...

Let the Red Mile Begin!

Posted Thursday | Comments 0
It all starts at 5:00MST tonight for Flames fans - the dreaded Red Wings are our first round opponent and some fans couldn't be happier. Sure we beat them in 6 games in 2004 and sure the Oilers beat them last year...but the difference between those 2 Red Wing teams and this one is one man: Dominik Hasek. I think the Red Wings have more confidence this year than othe...
predjoe writes...

Things Learned From Game 1

Posted Thursday | Comments 1
It’s okay…it really is. I woke up today disappointed but not despondent. These Preds showed a ton of heart last night in coming back and forcing overtime against the Sharks. Some things I observed last night: [b]Evgeni Nabakov is really good[/b]:Sure I knew he was a top goalie but everyone on that team owes him a beer, protein shake or something. He stood on his ...
After enduring two weak efforted playoff series by the Predators the last two seasons I’ve finally seen in person what “Playoff Hockey” really means. The Preds started the game with the same marginal at best, tired sloppy penalty filled effort that we have seen the last few weeks. Alexander Radulov’s first fist pumping slamming into the glass celebration after hi...
curiousgeorge writes...

Overtime

Posted Thursday | Comments 0
Can you believe how the Canuck/Star game ended? How many games that go into 3+ overtimes end on a nice goal? I mean really.....Hank is not a very likely hero as he barely scores any goals...but a nice looking goal? Same with the Shark victory over the Preds, great goal in overtime....not common but I am glad it happened. Lets hope day 2 will be as good!
Well last night I talked about how Versus was leaving me in the dark by showing the Canucks game (a move that paid off well) instead of the Wild game, but really that decision isn't Versus problem, it's the NHL's. This time of the year there is four games every night, it's definetly the most exciting time of the season. The NHL should take advantage of that by showing off ...
I was doing great watching the games downstairs (On the nice TV). Although the Pens vs. Sens early match up wasn't what I thought it would be, the later games really were starting to heat up. I was riveted by the Sharks vs. Preds game late in the 3rd period. I was thrilled when my old buddy J.P. Dumont tied the game to send to overtime. WOW! Funny, because it almost s...
predjoe writes...

Steve Sullivan Update

Posted Thursday | Comments 2
A source I have at the Preds says that Sullivan, who was at the game last night, seemed to not be feeling any ill effects of a lingering back injury. According to my source Sully was jumping around and spent most of the game standing and cheering on his team mates. While I understand that jumping around cheering is far different from playing NHL level hockey I think the...
predjoe writes...

Tonight's PREDictions

Posted Thursday | Comments 2
Even though the Preds are off tonight I will still be watching Versus and the scoreboard from around the league. Here are my PREDictions for tonight’s match ups. [b]Calgary at Detroit[/b]: As much as I want to predict an upset here I think the Wings will come out on top tonight. I see a low scoring affair…2-1 or 3-2 Wings. (Detroit wins the series) [b]NY Islander...
"When you stick your elbow in his face and put knee on knee that's an intent to injure. That's why he got kicked out of the game," said San Jose Sharks Head Coach Ron Wilson after Wednesday nights game against Predators. Here’s the deal…I was at the game. I saw the hit. I knew when it happened that he was getting the 5 minute major. I did not know if a game misc...
I think having Zetterberg back will help ease the loss of Bertuzzi tonight. Of course, Zetterberg is rusty and will have to quickly get back into game shape, let alone try and recapture the chemistry he had before the disk issue. I think Calgary will try and punish the Wings physically, especially our defense. Missing Kronwall hurts. This should be a very interesting s...
mojoworld writes...

Tonight's Action

Posted Thursday | Comments 0
Tampa's going to SPOOK the devils tonight. 4-2 probably. NYR vs. ATL will be as exciting as the build up was for PIT vs. OTT. Then look what happened, the upper seed played like the upper seed. Kovi and crew, do yer thang! Buffalo -- Score lots, rack up d'em points, my pool entries are count'in on it. Just another day at the office for Vanek and co. And then t...
xmyth writes...

10 Things I Hate About Game 1

Posted Thursday | Comments 0
10. Don Whittman and his terrible commentary. Bring back Cuthbert, for the love of all that is hockey. 9. The Flames didn't even look like they were that concerned they were being manhandled. 8. As per above, someone did mention to the Flames that they playoffs have started, right? 7. Too many penalties. Way too many. So undisciplined. 6. Simply speaking, th...
teddye03 writes...

And So We See The Lames...

Posted Friday | Comments 0
Well, we saw those dreaded lames. the F-ing lames at that. They played the game like it was a recreation league game and they just couldnt wait to go out and grab a beer after. The Flames now really have something to prove sunday as they put forth the worst effort by a team so far this season. I dont think ive ever turned a playoff game off within the first five minutes....
Deke2194 writes...

Game 1 musings.

Posted Friday | Comments 0
Well, the playoffs are still young, but there are still some interesting storylines that have started to develop. [b]Senators and Penguins game 1:[/b] This was not the game that anybody expected. Many people thought that the Sens would take this one, but not in the way that they did. The thrashing that was handed out on Wednesday should not be any indication of how...
ejburton writes...

Wings Dismantle the Flames.

Posted Friday | Comments 0
I was listening to XM-204 tonight on my way home from work and the ice cap boys got me thinking about first round upsets. I think its safe to say after watching tonight game it looks like Calgary isn't going to be the team to knock off a top seed in this year Stanley Cup playoffs. Detroit as of late has been known for their early exits. Last season the Edmonton Oilers...
mojoworld writes...

Day Three -- What now?

Posted Friday | Comments 0
[b]Canucks vs. Dallas -- [/b]I was there in Game 1. Dallas pressed hard, Luongo saved the day, but the Canucks did take some bad penalties and looked out of sorts at times. Game 1 jitters? Considering we've played 2 games already now, no more jitters left. The latter OT periods definitely favoured the Canucks. I don't think Dallas can play any better. The Canucks sur...
...Outhustled, Outskated! Get the picture? This pretty much sums up game one in Detroit. The Wings pretty much won every battle. They worked harder, fought for pucks, made crisp passes and capitalized on scoring opportunities. Kipper played his butt off, but that simply wasn't enough on this night. For most of the game, the Flames couldn't muster up a decent shot and...
Congratulations to the Red Wings beating the Flames 4-1 last night. However, the Flames did not come to play last night and we should be expecting a lot more from them come Sunday and when they are at home. Anyways, with it looking like Bertuzzi is going to be in the lineup Sunday (well hopefully), who is going to sit for the Red Wings? Most look to rookies Jiri Hudler and...
RockenTheJimmy writes...

Game Day Predictions

Posted Friday | Comments 0
San Jose vs. Nashville - Game 2 - 1-0 San Jose -I say this game gets very physical as response to the Cheechoo injury. High scoring game with Nashville getting the late lead. 5-4 Nashville (Thorton, Pavelski, Carle, Guerin)- For San Jose (Erat, Forsbergh, Zidlicky, Radulov, Dumont with the winner)- For Nashville Dallas vs. Vancouver - Game 2 - 1-0 Vancouver -No ...
bradleyc4 writes...

July 1, 2007 (part two)

Posted Friday | Comments 0
On Thursday, I took a glance at the list of possible free agent centers who could don the Orange and Black for the '07-'08 season. Here's a look at the defensemen (the Flyers other main need): [b]Kimmo Timonen [/b](Nashville Predators) - The first thing that jumped out at me when researching Kimmo was his age - 32. Are the Flyers willing to give a four or five-year de...
what has this guy ever accomplished in the nhl besides to end careers of other players? this guy is everything wrong with hockey. nashville is playing dirty hockey and dont be surprise if san jose decides to go dirty as the series goes back to the shark tank
Just got done watching the Predators pwn the Sharks, 5-2. The Sharks just didn't seem to be 100% in it after Dumont's short-handed goal and his subsequent 5-on-3 PP goal. Series is now tied 1-1, and Vokoun is playing much better. And I am now an advocate of extending Alex Radulov's contract by an extra 15 years or so. Now for the purpose of this blog. Free agents tha...
I have to hit the sack tonight since I have a TV gig in the morning, but just wanted to preview what I'll talk about tomorrow, which will probably be a LONG blog: 1. A Game Recap 2. Quotes from the locker room that I got 3. My thoughts on the "bad blood" in this series 4. Ron Wilson and his now famous, "I HAVE NO COMMENT" 5. Keys to Game 3 and what I expect..... ...
They always say that rivalries are born and forged in the fiery pits of the playoffs. With the Sharks and the Predators, this is certainly the case. These two teams, who had no reason to really care one way or the other about each up until last season, are in the midst of forming one of the great new rivalries of the "New NHL." Meeting each other in the 4-5 seed matchup...
go_leafs_go writes...

Hartnell gets off clean

Posted Saturday | Comments 0
Nashville Predators' forward Scott Hartnell will not recieve a suspension after taking his second game misconduct of the 2007 Stanley Cup Playoffs. Cheechoo took a blow to the knee in game #1 which resulted in Hartnell's first game misconduct. In last nights games, he was involved in a scuffle, however according to TSN, the league determined that he was in fact involved in...
writes...

Hartnell gets off clean

Posted Saturday | Comments 0
Nashville Predators' forward Scott Hartnell will not recieve a suspension after taking his second game misconduct of the 2007 Stanley Cup Playoffs. Cheechoo took a blow to the knee in game #1 which resulted in Hartnell's first game misconduct. In last nights games, he was involved in a scuffle, however according to TSN, the league determined that he was in fact involved in...
writes...

Radulov gets one game

Posted Saturday | Comments 0
Nashville Predators' forward Alexander Radulov recieved a one game suspension by the NHL today following a vicious hit from behind on San Jose's Steve Bernier in last nights game. The real question here is whether or not Radulov deserved more time for the incident.
I have some rest and I am now ready to tell all about the game last night. I'm breaking this blog down into sections today that way if people just want to read quotes, they can do that. If you just want a recap, you'll get that. So here are the subcategories: 1. Game Recap 2. Quotes from the Preds locker room 3. Ron Wilson 4. The rivalry and its' bad blood 5. Ga...
What a performance by Fleury. In a game that the Penguins could have easily lost, Marc Andre was the difference. I think his play this afternoon speaks volumes about his maturity as a goaltender. While he may not be seasoned yet, he is definitely mature enough to backstop the Penguins throughout their playoff run. Don't get me wrong, a confident Thibault is good to have in...
Ally and D Smith writes...

Oh, Hypocrisy

Posted Sunday | Comments 0
[b]By D. Smith[/b]: Remember a couple months ago, way back in the pre-Forsberg dark ages, when media outlets all over North America were calling for the Predators to leave Music City? Supposedly our chronic attendance problems were dooming our franchise, and simply put, our fan support was "lukewarm". We didn't deserve this team. We didn't appreciate the great product t...
thehuds writes...

Playoff predictions.

Posted Sunday | Comments 0
Here's the predictions I made on my own blog. Just thought I'd share with you guys. Well folks, it's that time of year again. Time for the 2007 playoffs. This years match ups are quite interesting and should provide some exciting hockey. Despite the amazing race in the east, the west has to have the tightest match ups. So seeing as I think I'm a know it all of hockey, a...
That's right... Lidstrom sucks defensively! If anyone else is currently watching the Flames-Wings game, you just saw Primeau skate around Lidstrom with ease to set up a highlight reel play, only to be stoned by Hasek... Now we all know that Lidstrom is one of, if not the best defenceman in the league, but the point of this is to point out that every defenceman ends up o...
xmyth writes...

A Sad Day in Calgary

Posted Sunday | Comments 0
The heart of this city, the passionate Flames fan, is breaking right now. You can feel the rupture resonating down the red mile, through every basement and every bar, and you can see it in every face. Kipper is playing beyond human, as we're so accustomed to... yet it is not enough. The forwards are not creating chances, are not forechecking hard, and look as though t...
I predicted a Flames win in 7. Well, for that to happen, there needs to be drastic improvement from, oh, about 18 Flames right now... Kiprusoff is the only reason either of the games appeared close. This reminds me of that series between Winnipeg and Detroit in 1996 when Nik Khabibulin almost stole the series for the Jets. But as in that series, Detroit has simply be...
first it was Scott Hartnell then it was Alexander Radulov and now it's Colby Armstrong. Suspend Colby Armstrong for the rest of the series to send the message that the dirty plays wont be accpted in the NHL. the blows to the head have to stop NHL isnt do crap until someone is left Paralyzed on the ice......
smalls writes...

Enough is Enough!

Posted Sunday | Comments 0
As a young kid, at any sport, you're taught to always give 110%. You are told to leave everything out on the playing field. It seems that a certain player has forgotten that all season. He has forgotten that he plays for the best team in the Western Conference, and he is looking out of place. I am talking about Robert Lang. Today, I laughed at him. Sometime during ...
[b]By D. Smith:[/b] Sure I'm a member of the Nashville Loyal Legion, but it doesn't take an expert (which I'm far from) to realize that the Preds/Sharks series has had all the makings of a classic playoff series. Fights. League reviews. Suspensions. Bad blood. Double overtime. Coaches exchanging words. You name it. Should we really be surprised? Two 51 game winn...
predjoe writes...

Tighten That Fight Strap!

Posted Monday | Comments 1
Is it just me or does this seem like it should be game 6 of this series!? Man the first two games have taken allot out of me as a fan I can only imagine what the players must be feeling. The war of words continues between Ron Whiner and Barry Trotz. Whiner says he thinks that the suspension to Radulov should have been longer (whoa…what a shock!). Trotz is sticking to ...
predjoe writes...

Is My Team Dirty?

Posted Monday | Comments 0
Help Me out Hockeybuzz Nation! Seriously…a friend just came up and asked me that question. My first instinct is to say “no, of course not!” But when you hear the talking heads (Brett Hull, Barry Melrose) talk about us I begin to question it myself. I don’t think of Hartnell as a dirty player…but ask a Sharks fan and you’ll get an earful. Ask if they t...
Before the Nashville and San Jose series started, I knew it would be one to watch. Two good teams with a lot of talent going back and forth. Maybe this could sell me on "the new" NHL. I didn't expect the toughness from either team that I have seen in this series though. But there's a difference in being tough and being a hack. Outside of Peter Forsberg and Shea Weber,...
Is it just me or does it seem like this should be game 6 of this series!? Man the first two games have taken allot out of me as a fan and I can only imagine what the players must be feeling. The war of words continues between Ron Whiner and Barry Trotz. Whiner says he thinks that the suspension to Radulov should have been longer (whoa…what a shock!). Trotz is sticking...
That distinction belongs to the 2006-2007 Nashville Predators. Of course, there have been teams over the years that have been much worse away from home, but this is different. We were actually led to believe that this was a team built for a serious Stanley Cup run. No way. The Preds were 23-15-3 on the road this year. Sure, it doesn't seem too bad at first glance, bu...
GoFLAMESgO writes...

Big Night

Posted Tuesday | Comments 0
Game 3, in Calgary, down 2 - 0, does it get any bigger than this? No. It's that simple. The Flames must come out with enerygy tonight. Forcheck hard, win battles, be physical and most importantly get the first goal. Tonight, I'm afraid, is do or die. Win this game and we have a series. Lose, and start thinking about the summer and next year! 43 and 51 SOG in th...
predjoe writes...

Victims Of A Shark Attack!

Posted Tuesday | Comments 0
Anytime your team loses I think the first reaction is to look at your team and find fault. While I will do that in a post later today I think I first need to give credit to the Sharks for a well played game. [b]What They Did:[/b] [b]Played Physical[/b] - The Sharks played the physical game I expected but they did not take the penalties that I thought would come with ...
0 for 6. Nope, that wasn't the Predators' power play line from Monday night. They wish they'd gotten six power plays. No, this stat line is far more telling of the Nashville Predators' struggles in the playoffs. The Preds have yet to win a road playoff game. Ever. Of course, all hyperbole aside, the Preds have only been in three postseasons, but the fact of the matte...
MichMan33 writes...

Game 1 and 2 Thoughts

Posted Tuesday | Comments 2
I don't think Red Wings fans could have hoped for a better way to start this series. They have dominated the entire 120 mins of this series so far. They have been the more skilled, but maybe more importantly, the more PHYSICAL team. They are initiating the hits, taking it to the Flames, and making a statement that this years Red Wings team is a PHYSICAL hockey team. Th...
MichMan33 writes...

Game 3 Preview

Posted Tuesday | Comments 1
It is unknown if Burtuzzi will play in tonight's game...but if he does who sits. It would be hard to sit Filipula, who would have been the obvious choice had this been Game 1. But Fillipula had scored 2 goals and his line had played extremely well with Franzen and Hudler attacking and crashing the net. Hudler is another option, but he is playing on both that line and h...
One second you're in love, the next you wish you never met. One week, 4 different possible outcomes. Some one is always on the powerplay. Inversely, some one is always killing off a penalty. No matter how many saves you make, you let one slip through and it's automatically your fault. Some one is bound to get hurt. At the end of a hard fought battle, ther...
This blog is for those of you who don't follow hockey all that much but have decided to watch some playoff hockey and you want to know the best games that are out there to watch this round. I'm gonna give you my suggestions of games to watch from the east and west, whichever side you're on. The games I post will be the most intriguing ones I think are out there out there. ...
xmyth writes...

And So We Play

Posted Tuesday | Comments 0
Keys to Game 3: Forecheck. Play physical. First to loose pucks. Win the battles. Discipline. Composure. Period 1: There's the effort. That's how we really play. Had a few solid chances. Unlucky to not put any in. Iggy looks better. Conny is flying. Kipper looks solid again. Even Stuart is impressing. Warrener is a machine. 4minute penalty killed with ...
xmyth writes...

We're Back In It

Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
The passion. The toughness. The win. This was Flames hockey. This was the grit we saw in '04. This is what we expected. We were forechecking. We were winning the battles. We were making short passes and skating. We can beat the Wings. 1 down, 3 to go.
sstrang writes...

Post-Season Fan Experience

Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
In 2004, a young man (well, if you count 26 as young) got to live a dream of a lifetime and go to a Stanley Cup Finals Game. That young man was me, and being from Newfoundland where the closest NHL team is Boston (it could be Toronto, but I can't stand the Leafs) I never even got close to a pre-season game in my first 25 years of life. That year, I experienced the grea...
predjoe writes...

Is This Leadership?

Posted Thursday | Comments 2
Trotz looked beaten, saying "We're going to have a mourning period for about an hour, and then we'll look forward to the next game." What? Is this the kind of response you expect from the guy who is supposed to shape the way his team feels and reacts to a loss like this? I don't think so. The Preds have not played well these past two games of the series and in doing...
The Minnesota Wild have the most daunting of tasks ahead of them. We've all heard the constant droning on and on about the Toronto Maple Leafs and the New York Islanders and their amazing comeback stories. Blah blah blah blah blah. Fact is, even though the Wild exploded for 5 goals in Game 4 (yeah, one was waved off on a bogus call on a rule that is no longer in exis...
sstrang writes...

Getting it back on even ground

Posted Thursday | Comments 0
Tonight Game 4 of the Flames-Red Wings series goes at 7:30MST (9:30EST for the majority of readers on here) and to say something that is obvious - Calgary needs the win. Not only do the need the win, they need to get it in convincing fashion. Sure they beat the Red Wings 3-2 on Tuesday night but many of the glaring errors the Flames made in Games 1 & 2 are still around...
xmyth writes...

And Then There Were 3

Posted Friday | Comments 0
It was the night of nights. Everyone in town knew that we had to play better, regardless of our victory on Tuesday. The swing game was live or die. No way we could crawl out of a hole going back to the Joe. It was tonight or bust. We've played consecutively better every game, and believe it or not, I think we still need to get better. Kipper is inhuman. I think he...
[b]By D. Smith:[/b] This has been quite a year for Predator fans. The 0-3 start. The 7 game road win streak. The climb to the top. The Al Strachan "Get Out of Nashville" article. The Forsberg trade. The Tootoo/Robidas incident. The Nashville/San Jose exchanges in the playoffs. What a year it's been. And it seems like it's been an awfully long one. I feel like the ...
predjoe writes...

Passion

Posted Friday | Comments 0
We all know tonight is do or die. Win or go home. Win or golf tomorrow. Win or pack up their lockers (and offices maybe if your Trotz) tomorrow. With their backs to the wall the Preds have to come out and take control of this game early. The crowd will be there (all 17,113 of them) and be waiting to explode with support for their boys. Just give us a reason early. A big...
I am not going to apology for splitting hairs over the use of Nation when describing the fans of certain NHL teams or the co-opting of the term for profit. No, I won’t because I’m Canadian and we’ve been splitting nations and attempting to sew them back together, and to the larger fabric, since our inception. For those of you reading this in Canada I realize inv...
It's a shame, but I'm just not sure the Barry Trotz "no-neck" jokes will ever get old... [b]Switched at birth?[/b] [img:right]http://www.melindafan.net/gallery/albums/uploads/photoshoots/tvguide%20photoshoots/american%20idol%20top%2012%20tvguide%20photoshoot/AI12TVGuide_3.jpg[/img][img:left]http://images.usatoday.com/sports/hockey/_photos/2006-11-20-trotz.jpg[/img] ...
Another April, another disappointing playoff series. But this time, this team was the most talented in the league, had the most individual season ticket holders in the NHL, was playing against a team that they matched up well against during the season, and was favored by some to win the Stanley Cup. And lest we forget Peter Forsberg, who came here because he thought we ...
doaftheloaf writes...

They Just Didn't Have It

Posted Saturday | Comments 2
I think the Sharks' intensity level was just higher. San Jose was the better team and it showed. San Jose is deeper than ever before, and they are definitely a team to be feared in these playoffs. Where Nashville lost this series, however, was with the penalties. San Jose's power play was lousy, but the penalties to Nashville just killed their momentum. Thats one th...
Though I am a believer in only the one, true, God...thank-you hockey gods (and San Jose Sharks)!!! How fitting that Thugville's third major (non-fighting) penalty and countless game misconduct cost them the game and series! It could not have been more perfect. If you can blame the lack of hockey enthusiasm on any players, it would certainly include the thugs of the game...
xmyth writes...

Coming Home Again

Posted Saturday | Comments 1
And we should give thanks for that. The Flames came out today and played a SOLID first period. If we had played that way the whole game, we would have won. However, we stopped skating after the first period. Not only that, we kept giving the puck away, both in our own zone and at the offesive blueline. How can you expect to win when you do that? How can you even expec...
teddye03 writes...

Disaster in Detroit

Posted Saturday | Comments 0
The Flames have done themselves no favors as they now head into game 6 on Sunday down a game and on the brink of elimination. The Flames started off game 5 fairly well and even outshot the Red Wings for most of the first period. But, it was a second period special teams disaster that marked the beginning of the end for Calgary. Dan Cleary roofed a penalty shot during a Fla...
Hockey players have an annual tradition where they grow out their beards when the playoffs roll around. No one is quite sure when the "playoff beard" first sprouted roots, but it's as entrenched in the game of hockey as sudden death overtimes and the two pad stack. Certain diehard fans take their admiration of their favorite players to the next level by mimicking their ...
seriously, people need to take a very,very deep breath about the McLennan slash. come on, real hockey fans will tell this used to happen all the time. I remember Ron Hextall jabbing the forward infront for position to see where the puck. Hextall did slash players and faced the consequences. He would a) face the player (thats call players policing themselves or b) get a fin...
It always hurts a little (or sometimes a lot depending on your “closeness” to a team) to see your hockey club lose. During the regular season you can soothe the pain by thinking ahead to the next game, but the playoffs hold a certain finality to them. What I mean is, once you have lost 4 games, that is all she wrote for that season, it is over, done, finis...
Leafer93 writes...

Close the Curtain

Posted Monday | Comments 0
And with that, the Detroit Red Wings have eliminated the Calgary Flames from contention. As much as I was pulling for the Flames, the Wings deserved to win this series. Kiprusoff was the only guy on Calgary's roster who was showing up to play every game. A major surprise was the play of Johan Franzen in this series. I barely knew who he was prior to this series, and...
Well, as hard as this is for me, a Flames fan to say, the better team won. Calgary played this game with grit and heart, but so did the Detroit Red Wings. Half of the problem coming into this series was the fact that many flames fans, among others, had it burned in their minds that #8 seeded Calgary could easily beat the #1 seeded Detroit, as the Red Wings have struggled t...
The Wings win in 6 games. Before everyone gets on my case about this blog, remember one thing - I'm a fan and I'm going to tell it how I saw it. You may disagree but this is what I saw. The reasons we lost this series: 1. Detroit was the better team. Forechecking, passing, defensive play - they played all 6 games the same and lost 2 by one goal which were winnable...
predjoe writes...

Sorry Ek...No Game Seven

Posted Monday | Comments 0
Eklund has his airline ticket to Nashville for the Sharks and Preds game seven but the problem is there won't be a game seven. For the second year in a row the Preds were handed a 4 games to 1 series loss at the hands of the San Jose Sharks. Seriously...if I see anything teal right now I might just hurl! This was a physical series (some might even say dirty...but l...
i get rid of the expansion teams including panthers, predators and blue jackets. these cities are stealing valuable talent from the good teams like the flyers and cities that deserve an NHL team......
[b]By D. Smith:[/b] Well, hindsight is always 20/20, but I believe the deal was worth making. Also, you have to remember that injuries played a role that no one saw coming. Bringing in Forsberg was supposed to secure three incredibly talented lines in Nashville. (in no order) the 3 centers were supposed to be Forsberg, Arnott, and Legwand. The 6 surrounding wings were...
[b]1 Buf vs 8 NYI - Buf in 5[/b] - Bang on, but I expected a better effort out of the Sabres. They'll be in tough against the white-hot Henrik Lundqvist and the Rangers. DiPietro came back sooner than I thought and played well enough to keep the Islanders in the games, but could only win the one. [b]2 NJ vs 7 TB - NJ in 6[/b] - Bang on again. Holmqvist played very we...
David Singleton writes...

Epilogue

Posted Tuesday | Comments 0
[b][Originally posted on PredNation.com 4/23/07][/b] To begin, I must congratulate the San Jose Sharks on a well played series. I obviously felt that Nashville would win this series in six games going in, but San Jose played a much better overall game and capitalized on their chances. They played a disciplined game, worked very hard, played an aggressive forecheck, an...
Rumor has it that the Preds are picking up the one year option on Barry Trotz and his contract. This means that the coaching staff will be together one more season before the org. will decide whether or not to let Trotz and his staff go. Expect more after the 2 pm PC. Just to clarify, this is a rumor, but I did get it from a qualified media source.
Tav writes...

Time Heals and Some Predictions

Posted Tuesday | Comments 0
Well, we're a few days out from the sad loss in 2OT to the Wings and the pain of that night has certainly dulled which is nice. It helps to still be able to go to games as our Jr team, the Calgary Hitmen, are playing in the Conference finals right now - beyond most expectations of the team this year (unlike the Flames). My wish list for the Flames now that we're in the ...
curiousgeorge writes...

Predictions Round 2

Posted Tuesday | Comments 0
Again for your reading pleasure.... Sabres over the Rangers in 6 Senators over Devils in 6 Sharks over Red Wings in 5 Canucks over Ducks in 6...maybe a homer pick but you have to follow the heart at times. Rangers will surprise some as they are much better than advertised. Sens will do great as they are crazy hungry for the first time ever. Sharks are a damn f...
[b]Eastern Conference[/b] [i]New York Rangers at Buffalo Sabres[/i] I’m a firm believer in the 2006-07 Buffalo Sabres and have been since I realized how incredibly good they are. They have explosive offensive talent running thick through four lines or even six lines depending on how you look at it. The team is only bettered by a solid defensive core that actually doe...
Okay, I know everyone is tired of predicitions but hey, it's my blog!! And if you don't get the blog title, listen to "Everything to Everyone" by the Barenaked Ladies and you'll get it! [b]Buffalo vs. New York Rangers[/b] Buffalo in 6 - they are in playoff mode and I think Miller will be the better goalie. [b]New Jersey vs. Ottawa[/b] Ottawa in 6 - They believ...
predjoe writes...

Don't Do It Mr. Leipold!

Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
Early estimates had the Predators averaging *13,600 fans this past season but Tuesday the Predators announced that the average paid attendance was in fact 13,815. That puts the Preds much closer to the magic 14k paid figure that they need by 08-09 (a stipulation set in the last CBA)to take part in the revenue sharing. On the flip side it also still has them below 14k and t...
CBJ09 writes...

Round 2 --can it top Round 1?

Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
The first round of the 2007 Stanley Cup Playoffs was very exciting, even with the lack of close series. The matchups we got were outstanding, such as Nashville-SJ, Detroit-Calgary, Vancouver-Dallas, and there was so much passion to go along. How will round 2 pan out? [b]Buffalo vs. New York Rangers[/b] I love the Rangers right now, they're playing with a huge amount of...
Sabres de Buffalo vs Rangers de New York Les Rangers ont été surprenant contre Atlanta, mais dans le fonds, si on regarde leurs récentes acquisitions - Brendan Shanahan durant l'été et Sean Avery 1 ou 2 semaines avant la date limite - c'est pas vraiment surprenant qu'il aient battus Atlanta, ces deux joueurs là ont apporté du coeur à cette équipe et le désir d...
doaftheloaf writes...

Round 2 Pix

Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
[b]1 Buf vs 6 NYR[/b] - The Rangers have a fair bit of talent up front, and a slight goaltending edge, but the Sabres are simply too deep everywhere else. Sabres in 6. [b]2 NJ vs 4 Ott[/b] - Yeah, I know it's Marty Brodeur, but the Sens will not be denied this year...at least not here. If Emery comes close to matching Brodeur, the Sens win. Ottawa in 6. [b]1 Det v...
But can they keep it up? Much depends on the availability of Tomas Holmstrom and Brett Lebda. Lebda's replacement, Kyle Quincey is a minus 1 for the series thus far, and steady, reliable defense is required against the Sharks. Unless Lebda returns soon or Quincey steps his game up, the Red Wings have a vulnerability that the Sharks can exploit. Holmstrom, on the othe...
CBJ09 writes...

Earth to Nashville

Posted Sunday | Comments 0
This is no way a blog meant to bash Nashville fans, because quite honestly, they have more to cheer about than we do in Columbus. But, the lack of hockey knowledge by these people who shell out hundreds to see a playoff game is baffling. Last night, I was watching a tape of Game 5 between San Jose and Nashville. Patrick Marleau's second goal of the game gives the Sharks th...
Since the flyers are out of the playoffs and i love to look at stats after games and after brilliant jobs by the refs in yesterday's games i decided to look at one stat that should be alarming. THe Amount of Pentalies called in a playoff game [b]27 Power Plays called in Two Playoff Games[/b] The refs are carrying out buttman's message by continue to call the phantom ...
Ever Drink a nice ice cold [i]glass[/i] of water? Now, ever drinks a plastic bottle of water with that distinct plasticy taste??? And don't even make me bring up the beer in the plastic bottle, Blasphemy! Distinct difference in my opinion and since this is my blog, all you get is my opinion. And since this is my blog, I get to make up words like plasticy. Now imagine ...
predjoe writes...

Is My Dad Right?

Posted Thursday | Comments 0
Okay…so I was talking to my dad the other night about the Wings and Sharks (I think it was before game three) and he said something that I found very interesting. He said that he didn’t mind the Wings playing the Sharks because they don’t finish games well. Hmmm…I thought. Let’s see. The Sharks just beat the wings in Game 1 2-0 and I thought they finished that...
predjoe writes...

Trotz and CO. Safe

Posted Friday | Comments 0
The Predators picked up the one year options today on the entire coaching staff of the Preds meaning that head coach Barry Trotz, assistants Brent Peterson, Peter Horachek and goaltending coach Mitch Korn will all be back with the club next season. Preds GM David Poile had this to say about Trotz: “Teams and ownership change coaches, and managers, for that matt...
last night blog was a blog of frustration and being pissed off at the sport i love. plus i had little too much too drink last night in celebatation of cinco de mayo, which explains about everything for last night. Sorry if i oftened anyone. For now on, im only blogging on the finals, Flyers and Ripping gary bettman to help make a change in this league and I’ll release...
Luongo07 writes...

In Todd We Trust

Posted Sunday | Comments 0
Last summer the Vancouver Canucks traded power-forward Todd Bertuzzi to the Florida Panthers in exchange for Roberto Luongo. The trade also include several other parts including Bryan Allen and Alex Auld going to Florida and Lukas Krajicek coming to Vancouver. When all was said and done the trade appears to be a steal for the Canucks as Roberto Luongo had an MVP worthy sea...
CBJ09 writes...

The Time is Now

Posted Monday | Comments 0
Alright, Sharks. The time has come to put Saturday's dull performance behind you and dig deep to keep the dream alive. It's times like these that the hockey world sees leaders emerge in the face of adversity and put their team on their back. Joe Thornton, Patrick Marleau - this means you. Joe, let's awake from the dream that told you to seek out the miracle play and put th...
[b]Second Annual Grimmy Award Winners[/b] Note: Since my last name is Grimm, the title of the awards are a take-off on my name and the music awards of a similar name. [b]Hart Trophy: Sidney Crosby, Pittsburgh Penguins[/b] Runners-up: Roberto Luongo (Vancouver), Vinny Lecavalier (Tampa Bay) There have been heralded youngsters throughout the history of the NHL. Way...
Your intrepid author has called 4 of 4 Round 2, calling the exact amount of games 3 out 4. So, yes, I am tooting my own horn. Toot! My predictions made back on April 26th [url]http://www.hockeybuzz.com/blog.php?post_id=7150[/url] My Pick Was: Ottawa in 6 Result: Ottawa wins in 5 I predicted that Ottawa would beat NJ in 6. They did it in 5, NJ completely unab...
hAbfAn33 writes...

Let me like you San Jose!

Posted Tuesday | Comments 0
Well another disappointing result for the Sharks. When will I be able to get on board with this team and really consider them a contender? This coming from a Habs fan with obviously no vested interest in this years Stanley Cup Playoffs, for obvious reasons. The Sharks seemingly had the goods to make an extended run, solid defense, good goaltending, #2 PP unit and a number...
In years watching hockey this might be the best final four teams left in the NHL playoffs in YEARS. So lets start out West [b]#1 Detriot Red Wings v #3 Anaheim Ducks[/b] Detriot has been playing great hockey and beat a physical Calgary team and a bottom feeder team in san jose. The ducks beat up on wild and kim johnsson's head. They also had a great series against...
So…I guess I showed my true colors last night in the Sharks – Red Wings game. It was the moment (you’ll remember it) when Grier was pursuing Lindstrom and Hasek came out to play the puck. Hasek goes to play it off the boards and Grier intercepts it and goes for a sure thing wrap around just as Niklas “faster than a speeding bullet” Lindstrom comes sailing...
ahbrown writes...

I'm torn.

Posted Tuesday | Comments 0
You've seen the scenario in many cartoons. The character is trying to make a decision and he has a little angel on one shoulder and a little devil on the other, both offering advice on which way to go. That is me with the Western Conference Final. I am a massive Oiler fan and I just don't know what to do with the Anaheim Ducks. On one-hand, I hate the Ducks. Well not...
doaftheloaf writes...

Round 3 Pix

Posted Tuesday | Comments 0
As promised... [b]1 Buf vs 4 Ott[/b] - Total toss-up. If either team wins, I am not surprised. Buffalo has the speed edge, and they're a bit more spread out in terms of offense. Ottawa has slightly better defensive depth, and their top line has been beastly in these playoffs. Goaltending, imo, is a wash. But I feel the Sens have played better in these playoffs, and...
I'll be frank: I'm surprised how many people are picking the Wings to beat the Ducks. No, I don't think the Ducks are invincible and no I don't think they are guaranteed to advance to the SCF, but you'd have to think they are favorites by a fair margin. Detroit doesn't have Kronwall or Schneider and I doubt that Lebda is at 100%. If the Ducks play physical enough with the ...
Nemmy700 writes...

Ducks and Red Wings: A Preview

Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
Well, it looks like both teams of the Western Conference finals have earned their position as the top two teams in the west. A good amount of people have predicted Calgary to emerge from the first round. Even more predicted the Sharks would emerge from round two. Even if everyone were to predict the Ducks, I'd still have a source of worries from a Detroit team that abso...
When Brian Burke took over the post as Anaheim general manager in the summer of 2005, the future of then-Ducks coach Mike Babcock immediately came into doubt. Sure, Babcock took the Ducks to the Stanley Cup Finals in 2002-03, the first of his two years in Southern California. Yet from day one, it seemed there would be a clash between Babcock and Burke. Babcock's Duck...
redwoods22 writes...

Game 6 vs SJS

Posted Thursday | Comments 0
[img]http://bp1.blogger.com/_oCmYyKF1nYg/RkMyBFMs7FI/AAAAAAAAAKo/2W51rn2Cv0A/s400/detsan.jpg[/img] [b] WINGS WIN!! WINGS WIN!![/b] Game 5 and 6 showed what a champion is supposed to look like.. The Wings never looked liked they were going to lose while the Sharks looked scared.. Really, I can't even say the Sharks looked desperate. That would require SJS to have a pulse...
Conference Finals Predictions Oh I wanted the Preds to be here…I really thought they would be. Man when we traded for Foppa I could have sworn I overheard a call from the NHL’s official engraver checking to make sure that Tomas Vokoun doesn’t have an ‘H’ in his name. Now I know it was the tee time manager at the Karlovy Vary Country Club asking if would need...
redwoods22 writes...

Hasek steals one

Posted Friday | Comments 0
I am 33 years old with a 4 year old little boy and another child just days away.. As a fairly even keeled sports fan (yeah, the trashcan? ancient history) I do not get as worked up as I used to as a 20 something lunatic who would go off after every home team loss.. Keep this in mind when I tell you that I was genuinely NERVOUS in the hours leading up to today's game.. You ...
Well he SHOULD be! In the first OT, Alfredsson lept from his skates and pounded a defenseless Henrik Tallinder from behind. This one of the most egregious/dirty boarding incidents I have ever seen in my life and Alfredsson gets not even a deuce for his trouble. Tallinder nearly broke his neck. Alfredsson should have gotten a major and been tossed from the game. Take...
NCRedWing writes...

Robbed!

Posted Sunday | Comments 0
If the rule is the refs are supposed to blow the whistle once they lose sight of the puck, there is no friggin way they could see the puck down Dom's pad. Watching that in realtime, the whistle should have blown well before he was pushed into the goal by Neidermayer, let alone not blowing until after he was in the net and the puck fell out of the pad. How they could overt...
This will be my live blog while watching the game. First Period: 1:04 - Detroit looks hungry. You know a team is outplaying their opponents when they start getting powerplays, and we are seeing that now. Pronger was just lazy on that last call. :42 - What a shot by Holmstrom. I disagree with the commentator in this case though. He said that the Anaheim defense...
With the double elbows to the head from Pronger and Neidermayer on Tomas Holmstrom, there needs to be suspensions. Both of them should get at least a game. I know Pronger got away with out being called but the replay clearly shows both of those goons elbows up at the head. Yes it could be seriously detrimental to the Ducks playoffs hopes but that is just to bad, you pl...
Why do you not give a damn about your hockey team? Why do you not show them any due respect? Oh and...What are the Ducks gonna do when Pronger gets suspended, as he should? The Ducks of Anaheim, formerly known as the Mighty Ducks of Anaheim have been one of the most successful hockey teams in recent years. Beyond the three Western Conference Final appearances and beyond...
nephew23 writes...

Detroit vs. Ottawa?

Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
Wow! Did the Ducks know what time the game started? I realize it is a seven game series, but they responded to the first period like it was a regular season game? There was very little real pressure throughout the game and it looked to me like they could care less to be there...just like their fans! Their one shining moment was the hit on Holmstrom. I hate the fact th...
One thing I'm not seeing in the Conference Finals series is the geniuine hatred between the teams involved. Its not a requirement for a well-played and entertaining series, but it sure would make watching these games a bit more bearable. Every year there seems to be a series or two that is just a venemous battle between two teams, leaving most of the participants with scar...
predjoe writes...

Pronger Gone For Game Four

Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
(to see a video of this hit go to www.predjoe.wordpress.com) Is there any reason that this kind of thing should happen? I think if you are a Pronger fan you can say that he is taller and Holmstrom had his head down a bit and Pronger just came in where he normally would. However, I think, if you look at the video carefully and without bias you will find this was, wit...
Luongo07 writes...

Say It Ain't So Burkie...

Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
This is a tough blog for me to write. During his tenure in Vancouver I had several opportunities to speak personally with Brian Burke either via letter, email or in person. In fact, in the hours leading up to his dismissal as General Manager/President of the Vancouver Canucks, I keying an email to the big irishman. As I pushed the 'Send' button, I received an 'undeliverabl...
nephew23 writes...

New Hope...For Now

Posted Friday | Comments 0
That is more like it...much better effort all-around! Both game 4's were two of the most fun and frenetic battles of the playoffs...great to watch! I did not want to go back and count...but aside from missing on the Senators wrapping up their series in game 4, I was spot on every other call I made! It took Buffalo all of nine seconds to [b]find the net[/b]. [b]Chri...
mojoworld writes...

The return of the Wade

Posted Saturday | Comments 0
Yup, it's key, when you stars play like stars. Wade, you rock. I'm so glad you're back and playing well. Just now on the 5on3, you dove and made sure the puck got away. You're my hero and I'm glad you gots yer A-game back! :)
Battman writes...

NHL on NBC (SHAMEFUL)

Posted Sunday | Comments 0
NHL on NBC Well I couldn't watch OT yesterday Buff/Ottawa on NBC and had to settle for crappy non Hi-Def TV on VS.. Bettman, you better start working harder on making this more of a main stream sport that us TRUE fans can watch without interruption! Also, get Mike "DOC" Emerick off the air when it comes to Detroit games. How can such an esteemed broadcaster with many...
doaftheloaf writes...

Round 3: How'd I Do?

Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
[b]1 Buf vs 4 Ott - Ott in 7[/b] - Didn't take as long as I expected, as the Sabres bowed out in five. I called the goaltending a wash...maybe I said that cuz I was cheering for the Sens. Miller is the better goalie, but not by as much as a lot of people are still thinking. However, Miller was inconsistent in the first two rounds. Of course, in this series, he was the ...
SmokingChicken writes...

Predators Sold

Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
Courtesy of 104.5FM and News Channel Five out of Nashville. Leipold has sold the team to Jim Ballsile(or however you spell his last name), that crazy Ontarian who made a bid to buy the Pittsburgh Penguins. Daunic just confirmed it's an outright sale. Leipold has stated that the Predators will play the 07-08 season in Nashville, but after that nothing is guaranteed. ...
Anne Hier writes...

Whither goest thou, Preds?

Posted Thursday | Comments 2
The speculation that various Canadian venues in Ontario would be chosen if the Preds were to leave Music City doesn't ask the right question: [b]If the Preds were moved[/b] to Kitchener, Brantford, Hamilton, or even The Soo or Sudbury - [b]the real question is,what conference would they be in?[/b] Would they automatically become an Eastern Conference team with such a m...
I am shocked. I am. But not at all surprised. Perhaps I should have taken what Trump says to heart…”trust no one.” Even as Leipold would repeat, time after time, that he had no intention of moving the franchise somewhere deep inside I did not entirely believe him. Don’t get me wrong I am not sitting here telling you that I saw this coming because I didn’t…...
predjoe writes...

Preds Ticket Holders Get Email

Posted Thursday | Comments 0
Season ticket holders got an email from current (though not for long) Preds owner Craig Leipold. Here is it in it’s entirety. [i]Dear Predators’ Season Ticket Holders: June 25, 2007 will mark the 10-year anniversary of the awarding of the NHL franchise to Nashville that became your Nashville Predators. It’s been an incredible 10-year journey for me. I can�...
predjoe writes...

Pred Fans Unite!

Posted Friday | Comments 0
Okay...the ball is in our court. Yesterday is over and there is nothing we can do about it. The Preds have been sold but it doesn't mean that they are leaving for sure. YOU can make a difference. Call the League Office at 212-789-2000 and log your complaint. I called this morning and let my voice be heard. They told me that each call will be logged and those calls will pas...
Leafer93 writes...

The KW Predators?

Posted Friday | Comments 0
Much talk has been made of the purchase of the Nashville Predators by Research in Motion CEO Jim Balsillie. It appears the team will be transferred to him, and, with it, rumours are in the works for a team to perhaps go to Kitchener-Waterloo. I have been debating this for some time, so I'll retierate a lot of what I thought: Logistically speaking, in that case, it wo...
Ottawa, pour être honnête, ils me surprennent cette année, je croyais qu'ils allaient se faire éliminer en 1ere ronde par les Pingouins. Daniel Alfredsson joue super bien cette année, mais on dirait que c'est seulement son trio (avec Heatley et Spezza) qui font de quoi, les 3 autres trios sont un peu silencieux. Il ya Antoine Vermette aussi qui fait des bonnes séries...
ahbrown writes...

Finals Predictions

Posted Monday | Comments 0
Game 1: Ottawa Game 2: Anaheim Game 3: Ottawa Game 4: Anaheim Game 5: Ottawa Game 6: Ottawa Series: Ottawa wins 4-2 Alfredsson wins Conn Smythe although Emery makes a huge push for the award with his play in the series.
[img]http://www.sportsnet.ca/images/daily/sat/emery_practice_cup_hor.jpg[/img] It’s been a long wait for both Senator and Duck fans, but it all begins tonight (May 28th, 2007). This battle should be a good one and the physical prowess of both teams will be shown early on. The epic face off has the Senators big 3 (Alfie-Spezza-Heatley) going up against two Norris Troph...
There are two types of hockey fans, those that are irked at the concept of a Southern team winning a cup (ie. Carolina, Tampa, Dallas, to name a few) and those that aren't. As a hockey fan, I'm tired of hearing what team "deserves" to win the cup based on the amount of fans a team has, or how devoted these said fans may be. This is professional sports. The NHL, as is ...
The Nashville Predators have signed a whopping FIVE European prospects in the last week. Sources have Djurgardens forward Patric Hornqvist to an entry-level three year, two-way contract. Hornqvist posted 6 points (2g-4a) and a +2 in 9 games at the World Championships. He is also one of only a handful of players- including Peter Frosberg, Marcus Naslund, and one of the Sedi...
Per HFboards- the Nashville Predators have signed Finnish forward Antti Pihlström. An up-tempo player with great speed, a decent shot, and a hard right, Pihller complied 16 goals and 23 assists along with a +11 and 63 penalty minutes in 56 games last season with Hämeenlinna. He's been drawing comparisons to Ville Nieminen and Sami Kapanen. From what I can gather, this...
ZenSisyphus writes...

Life or Death

Posted Thursday | Comments 0
Last Friday, as I waited to board a homebound plane from Halifax, I was leafing through the Globe and Mail. Two excellent articles about the potential franchise move and the lack of print coverage for the Stanley Cup finals shared a page with…the Birth and Death Notices. Of all the ironies. The announced sale of the Predators is nothing short of a Death Notice. Bal...
SmokingChicken writes...

David Poile's Euro Binge

Posted Thursday | Comments 1
Okay, folks, there have been some moves in the past by some GMs that have left me scratching my head(the Gerber signing sticks out; also the entire tennure of Mike Milbury with the Islanders), but the last week has left me stunned. David Poile has gone out and signed SEVEN European players since the playoffs ended. SEVEN of them! I've already commented on the first six,...
It seems everyone in Edmonton is drooling over Wade Redden. Behind Bouwmeester, he is definitely the player Oiler fans want to see manning the blueline in the Big E next year. Speculation is that because of Redden's contract and the Sens needing to resign younger stars that a Redden to Edmonton deal makes sense. We have the young cap friendly prospects and picks to do t...
I just got word today that Preds prospect center Patric Hornqvist will play his first full professional season in the Elitserien, rather than in the NHL or AHL. I'm not surprised, but I am a bit disappointed. I really think Patric's stock peaked this year and THIS was the year he needed to come over. Then again, he may be like Nicklas Bacstrom and use the year to fully...
Swiss League-A-Club [b]Ambri-Piotta [/b][b]signed [/b]yesterday former Bruins Stay-at-home-D-Man [b]Zdenek Kutlak [/b]to a one-year-contract. He's a gritty player with a decent shot and knows new czech Ambri-Coach [b]Jan Tlacil [/b]from czech extraliga-club [b]Ceske Budejovice[/b]. Ambri signed before [b]Toronto Marlies [/b]Topcenter [b]Erik Westrum[/b]. Kutlak will ear...
nephew23 writes...

What "A" Shame

Posted Monday | Comments 0
I cannot believe I even have to say this...but I've just lost all respect for Daniel Alfredsson. In case you think I've always disliked him, simply refer back to almost every playoff blog to see how I've talked about him. What in the world was he thinking? He went completely off the reservation. The shot at Scott Niedermayer was crazy enough...but then he goes and punc...
Well, considering the Anaheim Ducks are now 2-0 in the 2007 playoffs without stud defenseman and Mensa candidate Chris Pronger, my guess is that we can officially scratch him off the short list of Conn Smythe trophy contenders. Pronger's hotly debated second suspension was weathered by the Ducks' remaining defensemen and especially goalie Jean-Sebastien Giguere, who was...
rondothemidg writes...

The Captain and C-Neil

Posted Tuesday | Comments 0
Which player wins the Zinedine Zidane award for a meltdown during a championship game or series? The nominees are Chris Pronger, for his game 3 Dean McAmmond headhunting excursion, and Daniel Alfredsson, for his game 4 end-of-2nd period bazooka blast at Scott Neidermayer. As with Zidane in the World Cup final, these 2 incidents happened during tied games. Todd Marchant's ...
killacavs writes...

Alfie

Posted Tuesday | Comments 0
WHy is there no talk about that bone-headed shot at Niedermayer at the end of the 2nd period. Captain Danny should have to sit game 5 after that classless attempt to injure the Duck's captain, a real captain. The NHL is just showing another example of how they continue to be a mediocre league and let this headhunting go on. Does the NBA allow players to throw the bask...
504Heater writes...

The Crows are Circling

Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
Game 5 of the Stanley Cup Finals resumes tonight in sunny California, but for Ottawa the it's not so much the Ducks they have to be worried about - it's the crows waiting for the dead to fall. Is it all doom and gloom if you're a Sens fan? Of course not, but getting this far and seeing your team out-matched in every possible area raises areas for concern. Out-matched ...
Pivot King writes...

Euro Captain? No Cup For You

Posted Thursday | Comments 0
Obviously many great stories from this year's playoffs and the finals in particular. Ottawa finally made it to the big dance, but obviously couldn't get the job done when it mattered most. The Niedermayer's got their wish as did Chris Pronger. But one underlying story occurred to me as I was watching Niedermayer hoist the cup; no team with a European captain has ever won t...
The Anaheim Ducks have won the Stanley Cup. Not only did they win it, they won it [i]convincingly[/i]. Three straight seasons- maybe four (did the Detroit-Carolina series go seven games?)- the Finals were decided in seven games. This was the first truly lop-sided final I've sat down and watched since the Red Wings swept the Flyers back in '97 (now THAT was a show of force)...
From a contact close to the team: [quote]I got a juicy one for ya...... A respected player [that won't be named] said that there is no way that the Preds are interested in resigning Hartnell, because, for one, everybody in the locker room couldn't stand him.....[/quote] Well, folks, looks like there was more in common between Walker and Hartnell than their first n...
predjoe writes...

Get The Lead Out Boys!

Posted Monday | Comments 0
We are getting down to crunch time here. Free Agency begins July 1st and right now the Predators are not 100% sure who will own the team at that time. In order for a sale to happen the prospective buy Jim Basillie needs to appear before the NHL board of governers. A meeting is scheduled for June on June 20th…while it is not too late to get on the agenda time is runni...
predjoe writes...

Preds Sale Update

Posted Tuesday | Comments 1
From the Tennessean: [i]Jim Balsillie has submitted a formal application to buy the Predators. Balsillie’s lawyer, Toronto-based attorney Richard Rodier, said the application was sent to the NHL late Monday. NHL deputy commissioner Bill Daly confirmed that the league received the application Monday night. The application, which includes a purchase agreement, ...
Note to Preds fans: I don't necessarily want to see the Preds move to Hamilton because I think they have a very solid base of real fans who deserve a better fate, and because their rivalry with the Blues has been intense in the past few years. However, if they do move, there will be an imbalance in the league and it will probably lead to the addition to 2 new teams in...
According to an article on the AHL's Website, EA Sports' NHL08 will feature all 29 teams from the American Hockey League as fully playable for the first time in video gaming history. Let's just hope the AHL doesn't opt to expand next year and make the game worthless. ;) Still no word on Euro leagues, unfortunately. I was really disappointed that they cut them out of NHL...
SmokingChicken writes...

Cory Sarich

Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
I saw a Flyers blogger mention that Cory Sarich would sign in Nashville and would "replace Timonen." :? Huh!? Cory Sarich was a second round draft selection of the Buffalo Sabres in 1996. He was traded to the Lightning in 2000. From 2002-2007, he has played every single regular season game- for those who hate math, that's 328 games. I think he's also played every playof...
The Anaheim Ducks changed hands for $80M two years ago. Balsille agrees to pay $220M+ less than 18 months later. Apparently NHL franchise prices are going up faster than Alberta real estate. Even if the general business community agrees that Balsille overpaid, this significantly drives up the price of an NHL franchise. As well, if the NHL does pursue expansion, suddenly...
David Singleton writes...

The NHL at a Crossroads

Posted Thursday | Comments 0
[b]Originally posted at PredNation.com[/b] In 1997, the NHL awarded four new expansion franchises to begin play over the next several seasons. Nashville, Atlanta, Minnesota, and Columbus were awarded franchises that first hit the ice in 1998, 1999, 2000, and 2000 respectively. This expansion was on the heels of two franchises, Colorado and Phoenix, moving from Canadia...
I had this all ready to post on another message board, tried to post it, and found out the thread had been locked. RATS! So I'm posting it here. I'd been craving having something to blog about anyways. This is a little modified to make more sense for the blog. Nashville simply hasn't had enough time to become a viable market. But there's no reason it still could...
predjoe writes...

Bye Bye Kimmo and Hartnell

Posted Monday | Comments 0
Hartnell and Timonen are gone. The Preds have traded the rights of All-Star defenseman Kimmo Timonen and physical winger Scott Hartnell to the Philadelphia Flyers in exchange for a first round pick. Well...all those in Nashville hoping the Kimmo would retire a Predator are a bit disappointed in this deal. For me I am bummed to see Scotty go. Word was that he was a ...
...but Paul Holmgren has just shown how bad of a GM he is. He has drastically overpaid for Kimmo Timonen and Scott Hartnell. Hartnell, 24, has a great deal of potential, and when he was drafted was pegged to be a captain some day. But in the last two years that has faded away, and he's had numerous head-on collisions with the coaching staff, and most of the locker room ...
Expansion, Relocation and Shootouts, oh my! When will the madness that has become the NHL ever end? Would Howie Morenz, Ace Bailey and Eddie Shore even recognize the sport they helped to create? Did you hear the one about the priest, a rabbi and a minister going into a bar? I don't remember the rest of the joke, but the punch line is "The Nashville Predators." Sadly,...
Craig, if you will pardon me for being so informal, I felt the need to write to you once again. I haven’t written since November 4th, 2004. The league was in the midst of the lockout at that time, and I felt compelled to write to you regarding my support of the key role you were playing in obtaining a CBA for the league that would put all franchises on near-equal footi...
It seems that the Predators-Flyers deal, much like the one at the deadline, has opened up the flood gates. Eklund has stated in his blog that the phones are ringing off the hook. Today and the subsequent two days will be quite exciting for many fans. Expect the unexpected unless it involves Bryan Berard. -------------------------------- And now for the second batch of FA...
In my analysis, yes it was. The Flyers want to be competitive as quickly as possible. Making this trade and signing these two guys, both of whom fill vital needs, sends a message that this team is going to do what it takes to ice a winner. Philadelphia is suddenly a much better team on paper, and still has $9mm or so in cap space and only one restricted free agent of an...
sixtyone writes...

Various news and notes

Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
So lots has gone down lately and lots of rumors floating around. I'm just going to take this time to go over the events and rumors leading up to the draft. - Great move by the Flyers. I don't get why people are complaining, they get what they wanted and so did the Preds from what I can tell. - I do think the Flyers over paid but they did something smart with the to...
We've seen different franchises move before, mainly from Canadian markets to American, and it has gone quite smoothly. Why are we seeing so much talk about the Predators possible relocation to Hamilton? Did the other franchises that moved have to sell 14,000 tickets in advance? No. Then why does Mr. Balsillie have to do it? Yes I know there are many factors why people don'...
mattperry writes...

Slow going for the time being

Posted Thursday | Comments 0
Well folks it looks like it will be slow typing for me for a while. While playing in my summer hockey league I broke my right ring finger in two places (a strange thing that could ONLY happen to me). That will be fewer blogs for at least three weeks. However, here is what is running through my head today. The Oilers offseason plans. Next to landing a mobile defence p...
David Singleton writes...

A Rebuttal...

Posted Friday | Comments 0
[b]Originally posted on PredNation.com[/b] On June 21st, Damien Cox of the Toronto Star, thestar.com, wrote an article discussing the impending Predators sale and the lack of movement by the Board of Governors. What follows is my rebuttal to Mr. Cox. I was able to read your article entitled Why is Bettman so Scared of Canada?. Let me first say that I generally ...
The Nashville Predators finished off last season third in the overall standings, many people expected them to make it deep into the playoffs, if not win the Stanley Cup altogether. The Predators faced the red hot San Jose Sharks in the first round of the Western Conference Quarter Finals and even with a trade deadline acquisition of Peter Forsberg they lost in a 4-1 series...
During the lockout, NHL pundits often pointed to the NFL as having a salary cap system that works. The difference between the NFL and NHL is that NFL contracts are not guaranteed. If you sign an NFL player to a five year deal, and they stink in the first year, they can be cut. The NFL team is only on the hook for any guaranteed/bonus money that was already paid out. Th...
It has been a tough couple months to be a fan of the Nashville Predators. It has been painful to watch great hockey fans on this site have a feeding frenzy over the possible relocation of our team, and it has been extremely frustrating watching media and bloggers embellish facts and just plain tell complete lies to help their case that the city of Nashville does not ...
[u][b]Ohlund for Ryder[/b][/u] This trade makes sense to me. The Canadiens are not going to sign Souray (and why would they). Ohlund could come in at a good price and replace Souray. Ohlund is big and has good offensive / defensive abilities. A better package for less money. Ryder fits the bill of a scoring winger to play with Morrison and Naslund, and probably cou...
dkartik writes...

Predators to KC?!?!?!?!

Posted Friday | Comments 1
I admit, when I first saw the headline on TSN this morning my stomach dropped. Not that I have anything against the people of Nashville, or feel a lot of joy out of ripping a team away from them, but I was hoping that the move to Hamilton would work out because it would be good for the game, for the NHL. Nashville has proven, over the last 10 years that it is not a hockey ...
The Nashville Predator story keeps getting richer and more juicy every passing instant. Gary Bettman approached "Boots" DiBaggio and made an offer that would make even Tony Soprano proud...... Simply put, "Boots" would get exclusive rights to the Predators, at a price set by the national hockey league, and would get unianimous BOG approval to move the team at the next B...
predjoe writes...

Money To Burn...

Posted Saturday | Comments 0
Sure we don't have an owner (that's a minor detail right?) but the Preds have money to burn in the free agent market. With the NHL announcing the new salary cap numbers yesterday the Preds, like it or not, will find themselves being buyers just to reach the 34.3 million dollar minimum. At this point the Preds sit with 14 players under contract for a total cap hit ...
Well somehow it seems fitting that a player named Jed Ortmeyer signed yesterday with the Nashville Predators (let the hayseed, hick and redneck jokes begin!). It's not like we weren't already the punching bag of the league but now we give them more fodder for jokes! I understand that not all signings can be the Chris Drury's, Scott Gomez's and Paul Kariya's but dee...
Center Radek Bonk is now a Nashville Predator "For the most part our team is now set up,'' Predators General Manager David Poile said. "We'll still need to fill some depth, but in terms of our major league roster, we're in pretty good shape. This was what Poile said after the signing of Center Radek Bonk and Defensemen Greg de Vries yesterday to two year deals. Wh...
While this is early it appears that a Nashville group has made an offer that would keep the Preds here in town. This is what Predator fans have been waiting for. Current owner Craig Leipold has even been on record as saying that he would be willing to offer a 'local discount' to group of investors who desired to keep the team in town. The Nashville Post has broke the s...
predjoe writes...

We Need A Hero!

Posted Thursday | Comments 0
Can Jason Arnott be the hero the Nashville Community needs? While the fate of the Nashville Predators continues to twist in the wind of uncertainty one thing came to mind. We need a hero! Bonnie Tyler style… Where have all good men gone And where are all the gods? Where’s the street-wise Hercules To fight the rising odds? Goalie Chris Mason recently pur...
Brandon Felder writes...

Preds Uncertainty

Posted Thursday | Comments 0
Uncertainty This word surrounds the Nashville Predators and its' fans. This state has cost the team Paul Kariya and possibly other Free Agent's this NHL off season. This state surrounds the events in which the Predators ownership situation stands. You could also use this word to describe the upcoming season. It seems as though the entire NHL world and its' media has foc...
With the Predators choosing not to resign many of there "skilled" or "special teams" players, the Predators powerplay will have a different look this upcoming season. My question is, who will be the players to fill in on the PP? The most likely choice on defense is Hamhuis who has shown offensive ability in the past or maybe the rookie Koistinen. The foward position is a d...
With all the action surrounding the first week of the 2007 unrestricted free agency season, I decided to take a look ahead to next year to see what's in store for us. Barring any contract extensions (and there will be at least a couple) it appears that next year many teams will finally have their opportunity to acquire an elite puck moving defensemen. The crop of talent ...
Sunday, January 11, 1976... in the height of the Cold War, and the midst of the battle for the supremacy of the Hockey World, the Soviet Army Team visited the Philadelphia Spectrum to take on the reigning Stanley Cup Champion Flyers in the final game of what was billed as 'Super Series 76'... They were undefeated, and their co-touring lesser talented team were only defeate...
predjoe writes...

All Is Quiet

Posted Monday | Comments 0
While 'All Is Quiet' is not the most engaging title for a blog post it is, however, true. Right now, all is indeed quiet here on the hockey front in Nashville but that gives us a chance to recap what we know and maybe figure out where we stand. The Preds will be sold - okay that's a no brainer but let's start with the basics here. Craig Leipold is done with hockey and h...
Let me preface this by saying I don't mean any ill will towards people in Canada who actually love and research the league and its "goings-on", I'm speaking to "Generic Canada Fan": We understand that you don't like the Predators in Nashville. We understand you think you know the situation we have brewing down here. We understand you think no one else deserves your spor...
I think everyone understands the current situation. Sale the 14 thousand tickets, keep the team. I don't know about other Preds fans but I feel relatively confident about that number being reached. If this is the case, should we be hoping for a quick sale of the Predators? With Craig Leopold completely fed up with the situation and not about to spend any extra money anytim...
predjoe writes...

Vitaly...We Hardly Knew Thee

Posted Tuesday | Comments 0
[b][i]Vitaly Vishnevski is now a Devil[/i][/b] The Predators lost another unrestricted free agent yesterday when the New Jersey Devils signed Vitaly Vishnevski to a three year deal worth a reported 5.4 million dollars. This is a player that no one in the organization or fans of the Preds expected to resign. "Vitaly Vishnevski is a defenceman who brings a physical pr...
predjoe writes...

Preds Schedule...A Quick Look

Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
The NHL just released the schedule for the 07-08 hockey season and at first glance it looks favorable for the Preds. - Saturday Night Fever: The Preds have 14 Saturday home games. For a team trying to get butts in seats nothing is better than a Saturday home game. - Never Far Away: The Preds have only tow long road trips...a five game swing in Late October that takes...
Jlebang writes...

Redwings could use Yashin

Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
After signing Rafalski, Drake & Hasek, the wings are still lacking scoring for next season. This is where Alexei Yashin could help. Although, he is a selfish player, the Redwings are very thin in the scoring department. The top line of Datsyuk, Zetterberg and Holmstrom can not continue to carry the teams scoring on their back. I think Yashin would fill in well ...
Jlebang writes...

Zetterberg a wing for life?

Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
According to Sports Express, the Swedish sports daily. Forward Henrik Zetterberg wants to be a member of the Red Wings for the rest of his playing career. I say Ken Holland get the deal done. Zetterberg is one of the best players in the NHL today and he is only going to get better. The future captain is everything you want in a player. A two-way player with great ...
There are a number of things that are currently annoying me and since misery loves company I thought I’d share them. The Nashville Predators. Yes, they are a hot stove topic. I feel sorry for the fans in Nashville. They seem to be working so hard and getting no where. If you look at the current landscape it makes you wonder exactly what they would have to do to keep t...
The Predators announced today that they have resigned defensemen Greg Zanon and Kevin Klein as well as tough guy forward Darcy Hordichuk. While these are signings that will barely be a blip on the NHL radar for PReds fans these are huge! [b]Greg Zanon[/b] quickly became a fan and coach favorite with his unselfish playing style that saw him lead the team in blocked shot...
Shan316 writes...

Canucks Set For Now?

Posted Tuesday | Comments 0
I frequent the Canucks' forums and I also frequent this site as I wait impatiently for the start of another season. Despite rumors of Yashin or Lindros or Elias coming here via free agency or trade, I am not convinced this is the time to make a big move. I don't know that Nonis is convinced either. The Stanley Cup takes practice to win for most teams. Tampa didn't wi...
predjoe writes...

Happy Day!

Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
If Eklund is right and a letter of intent has been signed with the local group here in Nashville then Pred fans have something to be happy about for the first time in a long time! While nothing else is being reported at this time (Eklund is way ahead on this one!) it does give some certainty for the immediate future of the franchise. Now if the corporate community can c...
ItsJacketsTime writes...

Central Preview (1 of 2)

Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
Hola guys. Ice Melts at 32 F, or 0 C for those of you north of the border. And seeing as it got to 92 today, I should be thinking baseball. But with the Reds 40-55 and 13.5 games back, I'm just waiting for the next 78 days to pass, so that I can throw on that sweater and relax. Instead, I'm gonna take a stab at some Central Previews. I'll do another one in September, as...
m2kmike writes...

Us vs. Them

Posted Thursday | Comments 0
As I sit back and watch a replay of the 1994 Grey Cup game because the BC Lions game is blacked out, it reminds me of watching that game live and what it meant. For those that don't know or remember, the game was between the BC Lions and the Baltimore Colts, Stallions, CFLers whatever you want to call them. This was an American team in our CFL. This American team was comp...
I am a Flyers and a hockey fan. I have been a hockey fan in a town where the Philadelphia Eagles have a death grip on the hearts, minds and sports talk radio souls of our area. Heck, even the Phillies and 76ers (ban) - who are just god awful - get more airtime than the NHL. There are those who say that hockey doesn't matter, save for a few towns in Canada, and that th...
It's summer, and in North America (can't exclude the Blue Jays!) that means baseball is in full swing. Last night was a rarity in Cincinnnati, OH. The Reds won a game against the Brewers, and the Cleveland Indians were on TV. Being an Indians fan in a rival market, I had an obligation to watch. The Indians were facing the Red Sox last night. Jon Lester, the Red Sox star...
tjcode writes...

Redden willing to waive NTC.

Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
Before I start, let me just thank all of you out there for all your emails that you sent to me in the recent months. For those who know me, I don't really have to say much. You know my track record, and I think, from my stand point, that it's a pretty darn good one. For those who are just tuning in for the first time to read my posts, you'll be the judge, and hopefully...
frootmig writes...

Engels Will Owe Me a Two-Four

Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
[i][b]Why Alfie Will Never Be Traded[/b][/i] A couple of days ago, while engaged in the usual friendly banter of the Hockeybuzz Chatroom, a certain blogger that covers Les Glorieux, came in and confidently proclaimed that Daniel Alfredsson would be traded from Ottawa if the Senators didn't have a successful year. Being the ardent Sens fan that I am, I felt obliged to ch...
The season of 08 is looking great for the wings as of now.last year the wings came tied for first with buffalo{buf had more wins} in points and the only divisionmate who even contended with them was the predators.i mean, lets face it chicago, the hawks suck and the same goes for the bluejackets.the blues are really on the right track but at most they'll contend for a playo...
puck_slapper writes...

Save the Cap Space?

Posted Friday | Comments 0
It has been said that Mr. Holland is still looking at the market. Well who is not? I am feeling very comfortable with the Wings line-up this season. With the coming of age of Johan Franzen, Daniel Cleary and Flip. I think that Johan can replace what Todd Bertuzzi was supposed to bring to the wings grit with the help of aged Dallas Drake. Zetterburg and Datsyuk are definite...
Before I begin, I'm going to make a quick comment on giving Bettman the powers that David Stern has. I personally think its not needed since the worst trouble hockey players get into are bar fights. There's no strip club shootings, or dog fighting, or any other high crimes that have happened yet, and until that does happen, don't give Bettman the power Stern has. Minor int...
Speaking to a source close to the Rangers front office, I've been informed that the Rangers are willing to swing a deal for Sens defensemen Wade Redden. I have also been told that if it doesn't happen, the Rangers will look at Jovo again, but will most likely go into opening night as is. Also, watch for Hossa to be moved. The Sharks have made an offer. I have much more ...
Its been a great offseason for the Rangers. They signed two top tier centers to long term deals and retained their core group of players, with the exception of Nylander and Cullen. But its not too late to botch the job. Critics have already labeled this offseason as a return to the "Same Old Rangers". I dont believe that to be true but that is a dicussion of its own. What ...
predjoe writes...

All Is Quiet

Posted Monday | Comments 0
There was a time when MyHockeyBuzz and HockeyBuzz were littered with posts about the Preds from both Pred fans and those who hated the fact that a team was deep in Dixie. Where though, I ask, has it all gone? For fans of the franchise I think there is some fatigue for sure. For a couple of months now we have been living in this unknown, grasping any news that seemed ...
tml1967 writes...

Expansion Ideas for the NHL

Posted Monday | Comments 1
The NHL may be thinking of expanding again, and with the new rules in place it might just be a perfect time to expand and realign some teams in the league. I think if the NHL does expand by two teams the perfect two choices would be Winnipeg, Canada since they do have a great fanbase and support for hockey in the NHL, there stadium can hold 15,003 and there team was mov...
predjoe writes...

Done Deal?

Posted Tuesday | Comments 0
Well I knew the patience would pay off. A source very close to the ongoing negotiations with the pending sale of the Predators have confirmed that a binding letter of agreement could be signed by the end of the week. The source tells me that the deal is valued at nearly $200 million and that at least one additional investor has been brought in to make this happe...
I was wondering to myself why Brian Murray would come out and admit that he had an agreement to trade Wade Redden. There are several possibilites: - Murray could be trying to light a fire under Redden in the hopes to encourage him to get back to his former self. This doesn't seem like the smartest move as it is not the GM's job to motivate players and if that was what...
What was reported here first yesterday is now being reported by all the local and national media outlets…a letter of intent will be signed today between local investors and current Predators owner Craig Leipold. For those who don’t follow this as closely as some here is what it all means. The letter of intent means that the local group and Leipold will enter a per...
“We need to stop meeting like this,” said a lighthearted Craig Leipold as he stepped to the podium to announce the sale of his team for the second time in just less than three months. Once again Leipold found himself telling the press about a potential sale, this time to a group of local investors headed by David Freeman, Herb Fritch and out of town investor Willia...
predjoe writes...

A Dream...A Really Nice Dream

Posted Tuesday | Comments 0
(Cue dream music, Gary Thorne is seen in the broadcast booth at the Sommet Center in Nashville. He speaks) Who would have thought that it would all come down to this here in Nashville tonight. A year ago fans in Nashville didn’t know whether they would even have a hockey team and here they are in the Stanley Cup Finals with a chance to win it all. (Bill Clement s...
tml1967 writes...

The hockey factor city by city

Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
I though it might be interesting to see how hockey ranks across NHL cities compared to other major sports in that city, this is my opinion as i have watched hockey in 15 different cities and discussed hockey with many fans in the cities that i was in, i hope to add 2 more cities this year in completing all 30 teams down the road, please feel free to correct me if your from...
Jlebang writes...

WHERE IS Mark Spizzirri?

Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
His last blog was about Brian Rafalski and that was July 2. I know there is not a ton of news coming out of Detroit these days. But couldn't he find something to talk about, I thought he was the D's rep on hockeybuzz. HEY MARK, here are some topics you could blog about. Zetterberg saying he wants to be a Redwing for life, or maybe who is going to do the scorin...
I apologize for the title, just horrible.... but it's rather lame so I decided to stick with it. The following is a prediction blog involving the Habs roster next season... I recently did this in the Habs forum but I'm just editing it and posting it on MyHB now. Note: I'm just going to assume everyone plays 82 games to make it easier, but it obviously won't happen. Just...
Predators#1 writes...

Draw the Line

Posted Thursday | Comments 0
I know it maybe August, but my anticipation is growing for the coming season. I haven't seen many Predator blogs lately and I just wanted to know everyone's opinion on the Predators' lines for this upcoming season. 1. Sullivan-Arnott-Dumont Pluses-This line has a lot of chemistry as they displayed last season. Arnott and Dumont's size helps to open up space for Sulliv...
clarasax writes...

Hockey = Social Life

Posted Friday | Comments 0
Since it's the off-season, I feel like about a third of my social life has gone away. There are so many people we see only during hockey season, so many activities that are directly a result of Preds games. First there are our cellmates in Sections 303 and 304. They've been with us through wins, through losses, through that time Paul and I got to do an on-ice contest...
Okay...first let me say this is not a 'compare and contrast' article. The point of this post is not to bring up that people in Hamilton Ontario put down 14,000 deposits on tickets...the point here is to update you on the success we are having in a NON-TRADITIONAL hockey market...even with all that said I fully expect snide comments. The team finished Thursday with a tot...
Alrighty, amigos. The following is my prediction for the 2008 NHL award winners. Some will be obvious, Mr.87, while some will be shocking... which is a good thing. [b]President's Trophy[/b]: New York Rangers [b]Prince of Wales[/b]: New York Rangers [b]Clarence S. Campbell[/b]: Detroit Red Wings [b]Art Ross Trophy[/b]: Sidney Crosby [b]Calder Memorial Trophy[...
Much is being made of Nashvilles support levels for the Predators coming from various levels of government. Some might be suggesting that Nashvillians don't truly support their team if they don't want to see tax dollars spent on it. Of course, it should be remembered that CANADIANS didn't want to see their tax dollars going to fund hockey teams either. In this blog I ...
With the Leafs, Habs and Sabres done for player predictions, I'd like to move now to the Bruins, a northeast rival. While the Bruins flipped a page in the history books for a new era last season, they found out it was all for not and they landed in last place in the northeast division and missed the playoffs for the second season in a row. The acquisition of Zdeno Chara pr...
Alrighty, compadre's, I've done the Leafs, Habs, Sabres and Bruins up to this point and now I'm going to the last team in the Northeast Division... The Ottawa freaking Senators. A team who I despise and loathe for several reasons, which includes Daniel Alfredsson, Chris Neil and Ray Emery ( not to mention Dominik Hasek played for them in 05-06) but let's get one thing clea...
Alrighty, brotha's and sista's. With the Leafs, Habs, Sabres, Bruins and now Sens done in the projection departement, I thought I'd turn my attention to the Islanders. An orginization which has been the peak of many hockey jokes, kind of the like the Spanish News Team but IMO wrongfully so. They fought the odds last season and shut the door on my lovely Leafs and the clima...
clarasax writes...

My Fantasy Hockey Curse

Posted Tuesday | Comments 0
So, hubby is running a Yahoo Fantasy NHL league again this year, and he wants me to join. I'm not sure that's such a good idea. I joined the league last year, and it was a blast. I got to trash talk his co-workers and learn a lot more about the NHL. I even managed to draft many of my beloved Predators for my team. It is for the sake of the Predators, though, that ...
Howdy my hockeybuzz fella's! I'm here to bring you another projection of another team, by the name of the Calgary Flames. A team which holds a tiny particle of my heart next to the other particle which is the Buffalo Sabres and the core, the Toronto Maple Leafs. The Flames have done some decent moves this off-season: They've added Adrian Aucoin, Anders Eriksson, Owen Nolan...
If there is one team the Detroit Red Wings need to be looking out for in the rear view mirror, it’s the St. Louis Blues, and this year, the Blues are much closer than they appear. No, the Blues won’t contend for a Cup (at least not for a couple more years) but for the time being, they have a real shot at making life hard for the Red Wings in a very weak Central Divisi...
David Singleton writes...

Expectations- Part I

Posted Friday | Comments 0
[b]Originally Posted on [url]www.PredNation.com[/url][/b] Michael Peca signs with Columbus. Detroit signs Brian Rafalski to replace Mathieu Schneider. St. Louis signs Paul Kariya and re-signs (of a sort) Keith Tkachuk. Chicago obtains/signs Sergei Samsonov, Robert Lang, Patrick Kane, Kevyn Adams, and Yanic Perreault. Those are just a few of the moves made by our div...
With the Vancouver Canucks making the Western Conference Final last season, under the guidance of newly acquired Roberto Luongo, is it unrealistic to expect a Stanley Cup appearence? Will Vancouver be the fourth canadian team to make the Stanley Cup Finals in the last four appearences? This Leafs fan thinks so. After missing the playoffs in 05-06 the Canucks found thems...
Next, I looked at the Central Division [b]Columbus Blue Jackets[/b] Could this be the year the Columbus Blue Jackets make the playoffs... NO. However they will be better. Mainly because the Columbus Blue Jackets fired Doug MacLean and heired Scott Howson. Also the team got immediately better last year when they heired Ken Hitchcock. The Blue Jackets are stacked with ...
Alrighty my Hockey Buzz brotha's and sista's. With a nice handful of teams and their players predicted by moi, I thought I'd move to a team that I believe will be the powerhouse of the East... a team known as the New York Rangers. With a season under raps, the Rangers were eliminated by a mightier and badass'ier (yes, I make up words) team in the Sabres. But don't fret, th...
clarasax writes...

Hockey Wife @ Preds Practice

Posted Thursday | Comments 0
I got to check out Preds practice today. Squeal! So much fun. Training camp hasn't started yet. These are just informal practice sessions with the players who are already in town. Since Hockey Husband has to work during the day, it's my duty to go and document practice when he can't be there. I took almost 200 pictures. It was great to see the guys back on the ice. ...
Hello fellow-hockey fans, Well, we are coming up to September rather quickly, and just under a few weeks we will all witness the birth of another NHL season. I, honestly, don't know what to expect. There were a lot of off season moves that seemed to shift the pendulum in favor of different teams strength-wise. The examples are all around us. The Avalanche picking up...
Since the calender is fast approaching October, its time to sharpen our skates and make some NHL forecasts. We'll start with the Eastern standings. 1. Ottawa 52 24 6 110pts 2. Pittsburgh 52 25 5 109pts 3. Tampa Bay 46 32 4 96pts 4. Philadelphia 48 27 7 103pts 5. NY Rangers 48 28 6 102pts 6. Buffalo 47 28 7 101pts 7...
[b]Originally posted (and more readable) on [url]www.prednation.com[/url][/b] In Part I, we took a look back at the expectations going into last season. That look provided a brief glimpse at the players we were going to ice as well. At this time last season, we were a team coming off of a 100+ point season. We were going into the season expecting another 100+ point c...
clarasax writes...

Got Your Gear?

Posted Tuesday | Comments 0
Preds fans, do you have your fan-wear for the upcoming season? Much of Pred Nation grabbed their gear during the Save the Predators rally, when the pro shop at the Sommet Center was having a crazy-go-nuts sale. However, if you missed that event, you still have time to grab shirts and jerseys from various places around town. I needed to replace the Vokoun t-shirt I wo...
I know I am jumping ahead of the 2007-08 season, but I thought I would start to look down the road a little just for fun. I made a prediction the beginning of the 2006-07 season that the [b]TEAM TO BE LATER NAMED[/b] would win the Cup within the next 3 years. Well, that did not happen last year and I can see them going far this year, but still don't have enough experie...
So, the draft for my fantasy hockey league was this weekend. I went second from last, so my top picks (the usual -- Crosby, Ovechkin, Chris Mason) were long gone. I got most of my other requested players, though. This is going to be a tough league. In addition to my Hockey Husband, who is running the league, we have Hockey Buzz bloggers Paul McCann and Brandon Felder, p...
Okay... it's just training camp. I am really stoked about this coming season, the beginning of horribly overpaid contracts once again handcuffing the big spenders. We know at least one or two of these guys will be a total bust in their new home and could be almost untradeable. That aside, I have been sitting around trying to figure out, from an objective standpoint, ...
For many people this time of year is as exciting as Christmas. It’s hockey season. The weather is cooler and training camps are opening. Here in Nashville it’s been one of those off seasons that everyone would just soon forget. The Predators fans are ready for some hockey talk that involves the actual game of hockey and not the business of hockey. We are tired of h...
clarasax writes...

O Captain, My Captain

Posted Thursday | Comments 0
Jason Arnott has been named captain of the Nashville Predators for the 2007-2008 season. Brilliant choice. Do you know why that was a brilliant choice, my friends? Because Jason Arnott once saved his dog's life by giving it CPR after it had fallen into a swimming pool. THAT is the kind of leadership we need on the team, people. (Congrats to Arnott, a great p...
Last year the Philadelphia Flyer's were the worst team in the NHL. They went through some major shake ups from the front office to who was on the ice. After a drubbing at the hands of the Buffalo Saber's, Bobby Clarke said he was to burnt out to run the team. When Clarke found the door it did not hit him on the way out, it hit Ken Hitchcock who got fired the same day Clark...
Now that Vokoun is with the Florida Panthers, will he suck? I refer not to his admirable goalie skills, but to the welcome he will receive when the Panthers play Nashville this year. As many of you know, we Preds fans have a charming way of welcome the starting lineup of opposing teams at the beginning of each game. As the names are announced, we gleefully yell "SUCK...
David Legwand is looking to improve on last years career highs in goals and points. Last night on the eve of Nashville’s first pre-season home game I had a dream that the Preds raised the Stanley Cup at the Sommet Center in front of a packed house for the first time in Preds history. I remember the dream so vividly because it was almost like every time that cup was ...
Went to the Preds' first pre-season home game last name. Much fun was had. The Good: -Beautiful, new HD scoreboard -Two points each for Arnott, Dumont, and Zidlicky -Gnash (our mascot) mocking the NFL by videotaping the Thrashers' bench The Bad: -The dancers (more on that in a future post) -Sound issues (the lower bowl could not hear the announcements) The...
mslepp writes...

In Sutter we (don't?) trust.

Posted Sunday | Comments 0
Just a little warning... if you're on board with Keenan and Sarich and Nolan and the new faces of the Flames you may want to stop reading right now. Pre-season hockey is a chance for us to look at the questions our teams face heading into the season. We get a chance to share our usually high and lofty expectations for our own teams. When I look at the Flames this ye...
Time for Part 4 of my 6-part series on the new jerseys. So far, we've covered the Northeast, Northwest and Atlantic divisions. For those who have not read them yet: http://my.hockeybuzz.com/blog.php?user_id=2407&post_id=2473 http://my.hockeybuzz.com/blog.php?user_id=2407&post_id=2499 http://my.hockeybuzz.com/blog.php?user_id=2407&post_id=2552 Up n...
I watched Detroit and Tampa Bay today. Here are my notes from the game: - I never got to watch much of the Lecavalier/St. Louis show last year but hopefully that will change this year with my purchase of NHL Center Ice. It is the end of the 2nd and Marty already has 2 beauty goals. Vinny didn't play but the telecast made up for it by showing all of his 52 goals last yea...
Everyone does them and for my own sheer amusement (and to see my name on a website....) here goes: Western Conference 1. San Jose 2. Detroit 3. Vancouver 4. Anaheim 5. Calgary 6. Colorado 7. Minnesota 8. St. Louis 9. Nashville 10. Dallas 11. Los Angeles 12. Edmonton 13. Chicago 14. Columbus 15. Phoenix (1) San Jose vs. (8) St. Louis - San Jose in 4 ...
I miss seeing the Leafs play the Wings. When the Leafs moved to the east, I knew that I would see less of them but thanks to this wonderful new schedule, I never get to see those two teams play. For me, they are right up there with Leafs/Habs or Leafs/Sens games. Always good regular season games and playoff games. I hope that with the new schedule for next season, ...
1. Detroit Red Wings (Central Division Champions) -- A lethal combination of a talented team and a weak division. Ageless blueliners Nicklas Lidstrom and Chris Chelios join newcomer Brian Rafalski to form one of the league's elite defensive corps. Meanwhile, Henrik Zetterberg and Pavel Datsyuk lead a typically strong Detroit attack. 2. San Jose Sharks (Pacific Division ...
As promised I am following up my dark horse blog with my predictions blog. Very unique I know. No playoff predictions though, way too early for those. With that said, let’s start in the West. [b] [u]Western Conference[/u][/b] [u]Pacific Division[/u] 1. [b]San Jose Sharks[/b]: Probably the deepest team in the league. Tons of offensive skill led by Joe Thornton, Pat...
Back again to complete my NHL prediction blog extravaganza with my Eastern Conference predictions. Enjoy! [b] [u]Eastern Conference[/u][/b] [u]Southeast Division[/u] 1. [b]Washington Capitals[/b]: This may be my “what is he smoking?” pick of the 2007-08 season but the Caps have the parts to do some real damage. The arrivals of Nicklas Backstrom and Michael Nyland...
CBJ09 writes...

Welcome to the Show, Boys

Posted Sunday | Comments 0
As reported on Aaron Portzline's blog from the Columbus Dispatch, the Blue Jackets announced a major roster move this evening. Coach Ken Hitchcock informed 20-year olds Kris Russell and Jared Boll that they will be in the lineup opening night (Oct. 5th). Kris Russell, at 20, is the most exciting player to come through Columbus' system since Rick Nash. He was given a so...
1. Buffalo Sabres (Northeast Division Champion) -- The departures of Chris Drury and Daniel Briere got most of the off-season headlines, but the Sabres are as much about system as individual players. And the Sabres have plenty of offensive firepower in the likes of Thomas Vanek, Jason Pominville, Maxim Afinogenov, Drew Stafford, Derek Roy..... you get the idea. The Sabres ...
I would like to on a weekly basis share some of my thoughts about that weekend that was, the week to come, and any other quirkly news hitting the airwaves. I would like to offer first a prediction of the teams that I think will make it to the second season East 1) Ny rangers good additions, not great. should have spent money on D. Should have gone after hannan, or wa...
Your first(in your hearts too I hope) Ducks blogger ever on myhockeybuzz is back. Yes I have predictions, what everyone wants to hear. Yes I will do the East as well, and yes they will all be.....wrong. Western Conference: 1) Detroit 2) Anaheim 3) Colorado Avalanche 4) San Jose Sharks 5) Vancouver Canucks 6) St. Louis Blues 7) Los Angeles Kings 8) Minnesota Wild ...
[b]Playoff projections:[/b] Eastern Conference Finals: Pittsburgh over Buffalo Western Conference Finals: Calgary over Colorado Stanley Cup Finals: Calgary over Pittsburgh [b]Award predictions:[/b] Hart (MVP): Sidney Crosby, Pittsburgh Art Ross (Scoring leader): Sidney Crosby, Pittsburgh (123 points) Rocket Richard (Most goals): Alex Ovechkin, Washingt...
WingsfaninNM writes...

A New Season is Upon Us

Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
Here we go into '07-'08! Another great season of NHL Hockey is about to start, and the Wings are hosting the defending Stanley Cup Champs at the Joe tomorrow. What's it going to take to win? Well, the usual stuff, as usual, and some new stuff. Franzen has got to take on the role of Power Forward, Samuellson has got to get a lot more consistent, and the youngsters; Fillpu...
1) Minnesota - 105 pts (3rd seed) 2) Calgary - 102 pts (5th seed) 3) Vancouver - 97 pts (7th seed) 4) Colorado - 96 pts (8th seed) 5) Edmonton - 77 pts It all comes down to Nicklas Backstrom and Marion Gaborik in the hockey mad state of Minnesota. Nicklas Backstrom should have a great season for the Wild. He's never been a starter in the NHL, but he's succeeded in e...
predjoe writes...

Feeling Different

Posted Thursday | Comments 1
This opening night feels different. There is no other way to say it…it just feels different. This is the ten year anniversary of this team. I was there at it’s birth and thought that today I would feel like a proud parent…but instead I feel empty inside. With so much uncertainty this Pred fan is fatigued. That is why I have not posted in forever. I couldn’t brin...
[b]Originally posted on [url]www.PredNation.com[/url][/b] This article must begin with apologies on my part for the delays in posting this article. I’ve mentioned several times before that I’m not a journalist. A combination of my real job as a software engineer as well as a couple of rounds of illness has managed to really put a dent into my schedule. The dela...
clarasax writes...

Preds Win, Fans Chat

Posted Friday | Comments 0
Woohoo! Go Preds! What a great start to our season. A shutout from Chris Mason, a bit of "enforcement" from Tootoo, a couple of goals from Arnott, and a packed arena. For a couple of hours tonight I was able to forget all the craziness going on with the possible sale of the Preds and just enjoy the hockey game. I've noticed an interesting phenomenon at Preds games. ...
Nyi28nhl writes...

Predictions mean nothing

Posted Friday | Comments 0
It's not unusual for a hockey fan to make predictions on how teams will fare in the upcoming season. Heck, in my head, I've come up with how I feel teams will perform. Things aren't always as black and white as we'd like to think they are. It's impossible to measure how a team will perform based on past performance. There could be a blockbuster trade next week, a key pl...
predjoe writes...

Crotch - Bang!

Posted Friday | Comments 0
Statement made. That's the way I look at last night's 4-0 Predators win over the Colorado Avalanche. Statement made. Yes I know that one game does not a season make but Colorado is a good team...a team everyone is predicting to make the playoffs. They are loaded with fire power and the off-season addition of Ryan Smyth gives this team yet another weapon. None the...
As the Sabres drop the puck on their 2007-2008 season tonight at HSBC Arena, I thought I'd share my outlook for this year. I'm a devout Sabres fan, have been following the team since the Mogilny/LaFontaine era (I'm only 21), and I've studied the history of the team too, back to the French Connection days. I've stuck with the team through the really bad, the bankruptcy,...
clarasax writes...

Not So Bright Stars

Posted Sunday | Comments 0
Wow, another great night at the Sommet Center! The Preds beat the Dallas Stars 5 -1. Good stuff. The game started off with a fight between Tootoo and Krystofer Barch. Unfortunately, Tootoo was on the losing end of that one, which was unusual for him. Hordichuk took care of it, though, by challenging Brad Winchester to a fight at the next face-off. I remember being ho...
In his classic book, "See You at the Top," motivational speaker Zig Ziglar coined the term, "Loser's Limp." Ziglar explained the term in context of professional sports. He gave the example of an offensive player running for the end zone with a defensive player in hot pursuit. Twenty yards from the goal, it becomes obvious the defensive player won't catch the man with the ...
Oh, my Red Wings! The lines seem to be starting to come together, and things are starting to click a little......but...... Granted, last night's shootout loss at Chicago followed the loss of Franzen and some shuffling of lines, but the Wings have always shuffled lines and often just because they could. What the Wings haven't always done is scrambled in their own...
For those of you who remember me from the Checking Line blog site, well, I am back and it's prediction time. [b]Season Records:[/b] Wins Predictions : Actual Predictions: [i][b] Games:[/b][/i] 7:00 PM Ottawa 4 Atlanta 2 Ottawa continues their dominance of the 1st month of the season with an impressive victory over the Thrashers. [b]Goals:...
At this point we all know that the Wings are having some small issues with attendance. However, this is not the end of the world scenario that everyone is making it out to be. They sold out every game for over 10 years, it was bound to happen, and with the situation in the stat right now they are still getting a pretty good showing. With the economy the way it is (the stat...
WingsfaninNM writes...

Lines? What lines?

Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
Due to the injury to Johann Franzen (out 3-4 weeks), Mike Babcock has changed up his lines, shortened his bench, and Matt Ellis is in the lineup in a 4th line role. The thing is, the line combinations other than Zetterberg/Holmstrom/Datsyuk seem to be set in quicksand, and even that line gets the "mixmaster" approach every now and again. In tonight's 4-2 victory ov...
predjoe writes...

Preds Take First Loss

Posted Thursday | Comments 0
Sometimes it just isn’t your night. That was the case last night as the Predators suffered their first loss of the year at the hands of the division rival St. Louis Blues 4-1. From the start the Preds seemed to be playing the part of the Washington Generals to the Globetrotting Blues. They let them get up early, on a pretty goal from Brad Boyes started ...
nyghtflyer writes...

Predictions - Night 2...

Posted Thursday | Comments 0
So I didn't do too bad on the wins over the losses, but I didn't hit one single prediction on the head. It's ok, it was my 1st night, but it feels good to be back. Let's jump right into tonight! [b]Season Records:[/b] Wins Predictions : 7-5 Actual Predictions: 0-12 [b]Games:[/b] 7:00 PM Atlanta 2 Buffalo 5 A battle of playoff hopefuls here in Buf...
writes...

Preds Fail To Bonk Coyotes

Posted Friday | Comments 0
Well the Preds remedied the shots on goal situation that I talked about in yesterday’s post but failed to post a win against a pesky Coyotes team (they out shot the Coyotes 39-24). I felt like the Yotes beat the Preds at their own game last night as they didn’t necessarily play the better game but were bailed out by strong play in net. Despite getting two goals from...
predjoe writes...

Preds Can't Bonk

Posted Friday | Comments 0
Well the Preds remedied the shots on goal situation that I talked about in yesterday's post but failed to post a win against a pesky Coyotes team (they outshot the Coyotes 39-24). I felt like the Yotes beat the Preds at their own game last night as they didn't necessarily play the better game but were bailed out by strong play in net. Despite getting two goals from ...
I had a co-worker come up to me today an ask me if I saw the Tootoo hit last night. I told him that I had not, and he proceeded to get all excited, exclaiming that it was, "Just like Downie!! Oh man it was the same thing again!!" So I figured I should take a look myself to see what really happened. So I went to tsn.ca and watched the highlights from the Coyotes-P...
In a letter written by a local business man who was heavily involved with the campaign of Nashville's new mayor it appears Jim Balsillie is ready to try to dance again. Here is it in it's entirety: [i]I (Bo Roberts) am writing on behalf of a client of NetCom LLC, Predators Sports and Entertainment LP (“Purchaseco”). We have been asked to summarize my client’s ...
Where is Weller Suspension? that’s right the refs got it wrong giving him an match pentaly Where’s Tootoo’s Suspension? I didnt happen nhl still holding a grudge against the flyers all these years.....
dgutzman writes...

1st Thoughts on the Predators

Posted Saturday | Comments 0
After watching the Preds outplay both Colorado and Dallas in the 1st 2 games, I have had to endure 2 ugly losses to the Blues and the Coyotes. And as I am typing, the Preds are losing to the Flames in a 4-6 blowout in which Mason looks horrible in goal. As much as I consider myself a diehard preds fan, and have argued tooth and nail with the pundits and critics, I have t...
predjoe writes...

Losing Stinks

Posted Monday | Comments 0
One thing I've discovered about blogging about your favorite team...when they lose it's hard to write. Writing when they win is easy. "They played a great game." "The boys looked sharp." "The other team played well but just didn't have it." "This was a quality win against a quality team." Seriously...cliches abound when you are talking about winning but when yo...
I've seen the replay of the Weller Tootoo dust up about 15 times at least. Here's my opinion for what it's worth and I've been throwing it around since the Sutton hit and no one's paid me a dime. The Tootoo hit was at least as bad as the Downie hit. Both hits were against a guy coming around the net and not paying attention but Downie stopped skating at the blue line, ...
clarasax writes...

Scoreboard Troubles

Posted Tuesday | Comments 0
At this season's Predators games, the crowd at the Sommet Center has been treated to a fancy-schmancy new scoreboard. It looks great, but I've been noticing some serious issues with the new screen. See if you can spot the problem: [img]http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2092/1593784358_88fdee7dfd.jpg?v=0[/img] No? Let's try it again. Here's another example: [img]ht...
Thursday night will be a match up of i think the two top teams in the Western conference between the San Jose Sharks and Detroit Red Wings. The Sharks will be hungry as they host the Detroit Red Wings the team that ousted them from last years playoffs in six games. Many picked the Sharks or Wings to be hoisting the Cup come this spring, making this to be one hell of a...
predjoe writes...

Pred Will Get On Track

Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
This is my belief. The preds will get back on track and it starts tonight. Deep down it’s what I have to believe as a fan. As I have started trying to take this blog thing more seriously (thanks Ek for encouraging it) I find myself torn between reporting the story as a journalist or as a fan. Today I come down on the side of the fan...an unhappy fan looking for somet...
predjoe writes...

Preds Fall Again

Posted Thursday | Comments 0
I’ve said it before and I'll say it again. I hate writing after a Preds loss and the way this season is going I may have to a ton of this writing. The Preds lost their fourth straight against the defending Stanley Cup Champion Ducks last night in a 3-1 game. I know I am going to sound like a homer here but this game could have easily gone the other way. The Pr...
predjoe writes...

Home Away From Home

Posted Friday | Comments 0
While many teams view the comfy confines of a nice home stand I think there are times when a little road trip is just what the doctor ordered. That, I believe, is the case right now with the Preds. Mired in the a four game losing streak (3 at home and one on the road) the Preds step away from comfortable home beds, wives, children and any sense of routine. The ...
predjoe writes...

Desperate Times...

Posted Saturday | Comments 0
You know the saying...'desperate times call for desperate measures.' That is exactly what the Preds find themselves facing tonight as they attempt to halt a four game skid against the Sharks. If there is one team that the Preds know well it's the Sharks. The Preds have fallen short against them each of the last two years in the the playoffs. Pred players probably see ...
predjoe writes...

Yup...Another Loss

Posted Sunday | Comments 0
I feel like an auctioneer...'we have four. Do I hear five? Five - thank you team in teal. Do I have six?' Seriously...what do we have to do to get a win around this place? The Preds played a great game last night. Mason was as solid as I've seen him since game two and the team was really keeping pace with the Sharks. We just ran into another goalie playing out of his m...
Many writers have opined that the CBA is favorable to the owners, or favorable to the players, or favorable to no one. How many have actually taken the time to slog through all 475 pages of the current agreement? Don't worry. One need read only as far as the CBA Preamble. If what it states isn't true, then the integrity of the whole CBA is problematic. Frankly, it is prett...
Here is a quote from tsn.ca's (http://www.tsn.ca/fantasy_news/feature/?fid=549) power rankings. [quote] Chris Mason opened the season with two outstanding games and has struggled ever since. Perhaps it's time to take a step back and give backup Dan Ellis some work. [/quote] Okay...I get that the Preds have lost five in a row and that Mason had some shaky games but ...
Enough already! I am getting sick of writing about losing. For those who think winning is overrated they should try losing five games in a row...it sucks! To remedy this situation I thought I would write the blog that I want to be writing tomorrow today...you know some of the Tony Robbins positive thinking stuff. So here we go! [quote]Now that was Predators hockey...
So, I just watched what was quite possibly the worst hockey game I have ever seen in my life. The LA Kings just crushed the Preds 6 - 0. Thats right. 2 field goals and a shut out. I don't know where to begin, so I will break it all down. Goalie - I am not going to say that Chris Mason has to shoulder the load for this team, but every time a hockey team goes on a w...
predjoe writes...

Well...That Didn't Work!

Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
Tony Robbins is full of crap! I tried that positive thinking stuff yesterday and got nothing! There is no where to start on this one. The Preds stunk up the place last night. They looked bad start to finish. Something has got to change. The Preds cannot continue to keep playing this way. That is why today I have finally come to the conclusion that Trotz really ...
Deke2194 writes...

Hero and Zero: Week 3

Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
I missed week 2, so this one will cover the past 2 weeks. HERO: Martin Biron Posting 4 wins (2 of them shutouts) in 4 games, Biron was an easy choice here. Stopping 140 of 143 shots during the 4 game stretch, the Flyers are making some big time noise in the Eastern Conference, with Biron providing A+ goaltending to aid the cause. He is leading the league with 6 win...
predjoe writes...

Game Day Quick Hits (updated)

Posted Thursday | Comments 0
[i]11:45 AM UPDATE: Dan Ellis will start in goal tonight for the Predators...whether or not this is a spot start remains to be seen. [/i] Thought I would throw out some game day quick hits: The City is requesting that the new ownership group commits to staying in Nashville for five years if lease concessions are made. I think the city is right on the money request...
predjoe writes...

RIP Crotch Bang

Posted Thursday | Comments 0
So...after instituting the Crotch Bang on my blog the Preds went on to lose six games in a row. That was brought up to me by Hockeybuzz user 'themax': [quote][i]October 24, 2007 9:24 AM ET | Delete notice how the Preds have fallen apart since you introduced this bizarrely gay "crotch bang" phrase into your blogs? You've cursed them. Try writing a blog w/o it and I thi...
predjoe writes...

The Return Of Tomas (UPDATED)

Posted Saturday | Comments 0
*** 2:49 CST: The Predators go with the hot hand and Dan Ellis will start in goal for tonight against Tomas Vokoun. *** Well...the much anticipated return of Tomas Vokoun happens tonight. Wheter Tomas faces the man (Chris Mason)who has taken his place as the Preds number one remains to be seen. Mason entered the season as the undisputed number one but a bumpy 2-6 re...
predjoe writes...

In The Right Direction...

Posted Sunday | Comments 0
[b]Two in a row![/b] Wow...this feels a little better. The Preds still have a ton of work left but string together a couple of wins is a step in the right direction for sure! While I feel a little bad that Mason did not get to go head to head against Vokoun last night I think the right choice was made by putting Ellis in net. You don't bench someone coming off a shutout...
predjoe writes...

Mason In Net Tonight...

Posted Tuesday | Comments 0
Chris Mason will be back in goal tonight for the Predators as they face the Calgary Flames at the Saddledome. Tonight begins the first of a stretch of five road games for the Predators and all are against worthy opponents. No off nights here. The Western Canada swing is always a tough one for any team then they follow it up with stops in Chicago and Detroit before he...
Humble_77 writes...

First entry...

Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
The rollercoaster that is the sale of the Predators could easily be compared to the Energizer Bunny- it keeps going, and going, and going. Today, Craig Leipold announced that the negotiations with the Freeman-led group of local investors would continue for an unspecified period of time. What does this mean for Nashville? With a brutal road-stretch going on (starting omi...
Great insight on it, it's going to be a great game to say the least. Expect guys like Nolan, Sarich, and Conroy to stand out tonight. They're the guys who can stick to a Red Wing like glue and keep the forecheck energized. I attended the Nashville game a couple days ago and I wasn't satisfied with the play of both Nashville and the Flames. Both teams didnt bring any so...
predjoe writes...

Must Win?

Posted Thursday | Comments 0
While it's early in the season to declare any game a must win I am going out on a limb and saying that tonight’s game against the Canucks is a must win. The Preds have got to win this game, if for no other reason, to prove to themselves and others that they can win on the road. As a Preds fan you know how bad it is. 0-5 on the road...can't buy a goal to save ours...
predjoe writes...

Oh Danny Boy!

Posted Friday | Comments 0
That’s the song that Pred Nation is singing this morning (that is if they are awake after the 10p central start last night!). Once again Dan Ellis is called upon and for the third time in a row he answers with a win and his second shutout in three starts. To say that he might be a hot goalie right now might be an understatement. The Preds had a solid game plan las...
Well...not quite the same verse (it would have to have been a shut out to do that) but it was close enough as Dan Ellis led the Preds to a 4-1 victory on the road tonight against the Edmonton Oilers. Once again Ellis made some huge saves at critical times...the toe save against Hemsky when the game was knotted at 1-1 was very big! Great play tonight from Arnott and Legw...
With Nashville and Chicago both looking for 3 straight wins Sunday evening at the United Center, one could only foresee a battle within the Central Division. Even though Chris Mason of the Nashville Predators has received his fair share of disbelief from the fans, he certainly showed his talent tonight against a young Chicago Blackhawks team. Mason finally snapped his ...
predjoe writes...

Back At .500

Posted Monday | Comments 0
Wow....a .500 record has never looked so good. After a six game losing streak that had many Preds fans on suicide watch the Preds have turned their season around. Sparked by the great goaltending by Dan Ellis the Preds are in the midst of a 3 game winning streak and have won 5 of their last six. So, what has happened that has caused this turn around. [b]Dan Ellis:[/b] T...
Just got word that the local ownership group and the city of Nashville of agreed to the lease changes with the team staying until at least 2011. More details to follow. Here is a link to the story. http://thehockeynews.com/articles/10825-Sources-New-deal-will-keep-Predators-in-Nashville-for-at-least-three-years.html
[b]Wings and Preds[/b] tonight at 6:30 cst from the Joe on FSN. The Wings, as usual, have started out red hot and are leading the tough Central. The Preds are on a bit of a roll wining 5 of their last 6 and three in a row. This is, by far, their toughest test of the year. The Preds always seem to play the Wings tough and I expect the same kind of effort tonight. I loo...
We all know that as fans it seems like there are only 2 emotions in our fan-lives, a giddy rollercoaster of ups and downs, from supreme and utter glory as our team wins to dark, lonely despair as they fail don't. In some ways it's easier to be a fan of a really good team, like the Wings, or a fan of a struggling team, like the Blue Jackets. The Red Wings of the pas...
predjoe writes...

Preds Win In MoTown!

Posted Thursday | Comments 0
[i][b]Loyal Predjoe Blog Reader:[/b] Hey Joe you know that we lost last night right? In a shootout? [b]Predjoe:[/b] We won baby! [b]LPJBR:[/b] Oh...I get it. This is about the disallowed goals from last night. [b]PJ:[/b] Heck yeah baby...V-I-C-T-O-R-Y! [b]LPJBR:[/b] Ok...what are you smokin and can I have some?[/i] Folks...this is how I feel today. I feel li...
Okay, Preds fans, if you are dying to meet your favorite player, mark your calendars for November 13. That's the second annual "Community Day" for the Preds, when almost all of the Preds players will be out in the community, visiting businesses, reading to students, and greeting fans. Highlights of the schedule include comedy duo Darcy Hordichuk and Alexander Radulov at...
predjoe writes...

Lindros A Hall Of Famer

Posted Friday | Comments 0
So I went to check TSN.CA's ([u]http://tsn.ca/nhl/[/u])NHL page and they have one of their polls up there. This time is asks the simple question, "Is Eric Lindros a Hall of Famer?" As of this writing the results are a lopsided 71% no to 29%. I took some time to break down the numbers that Lindros posted in his career. Games Played 760 Goals 372 Assits ...
So far, the young season has provided many highlights for the upstart Columbus Blue Jackets, off to a franchise-record 8-4-2 start. They have taken full-heartedly to Ken Hitchcock's structured mentality, and using their speed and forecheck to pressure opponents into turnovers. Vintage Ken Hitchcock hockey. With a team as young as the Jackets, it is plausible to wond...
I just read an article by Helene St. James of the [i]Detroit Free Press[/i] ( [i]Cloud 9: Wings' streak ties record; Zetterberg extends his[/i]) in which she states that the Joe Louis Arena was only "two-thirds full" last night. This is simply not true and anybody with a calculator can verify the actual percentage. In fact, the actual attendance last night against Co...
predjoe writes...

Preds Rolling

Posted Sunday | Comments 0
Wins in six out of their last eight games. Points in seven of their last eight. Yes it is time to recognize that the Predators are back. Last nights 4-3 shootout win is proof of that. Sure the Preds gave up a two goal lead but they were able to come away with two points. Following the game their was frustration in the locker room over the fact that they let the Blue ...
[img]http://boredplanet.com/img/returnoftheking.jpg[/img] http://new.wavlist.com/movies/093/aod-hailking.wav Garth Snow hemmed and hawed when he had to figure out a solution to his horde of defensemen at the start of this season. Bryan Berard sat for days waiting as the season started, and all he could do is practice on his own dollar as the Isles looked f...
As a Chicago Blackhawk fan, I can tell you the excitement and anticipation I've experienced all day long, but I don't want to ramble on and on and on. Not only was Detroit on the schedule for today, Chicago fans experienced a change up if you will. Rocky Wirtz announced that 7 Blackhawks games would be broadcasted through CSN. The first of course, was televised today w...
predjoe writes...

Loving The Divisional Games

Posted Monday | Comments 0
[b]The NHL did a great thing[/b] by putting a large chunk of divisional games so early in the season this year. It really gets the rivalries going and gives each team a great opportunity to see what they are competing against in their division. For a long time I was wondering why they NHL didn’t do more of this...to me it seemed so easy a solution to add meaning to th...
Its not often that I write about an individual game as I normally write about trends that I observe relating to the Preds. But I feel compelled to write about tonights game, especially since it was the back end of a home and away series against the Jackets. The Jackets, much like the rest of the Central, is a much improved team. And while I and many Preds fans will alwa...
predjoe writes...

Are We Hot Yet?

Posted Tuesday | Comments 0
Oh Yes! After losing six games in a row the Predators have stormed back in dramatic fashion. The Preds have won seven out of their last nine with only one regulation loss in that stretch. The boys have turned a corner and have surprised allot of teams including the Blue Jackets whose coach, Ken Hitchcock, thought that the Preds were done for the year when they were struggl...
jammer21 writes...

What really grinds my gears...

Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
The Blues beat Detroit which is always a good thing, but there are a couple things that really irked me tonight... -Night Class. I didn't catch the entire game and only saw the last period. I missed the one freaking time that Blues not only beat Detroit, but beat them on national TV!!! -eric brewer. I didn't capitalize his name because he was very bad. I understand m...
[b]UPDATE: [/b][i]So...the 3 pm press conference that had been called to announce the terms of the new lease agreement has been called off. The Tennessean is reporting that the local investor group, headed by David Freeman, has not yet approved the deal. I am so sick of this stuff. If this is indeed the case the local investors have got to realize that the longer this ...
predjoe writes...

Blackhawks Come Calling

Posted Thursday | Comments 0
[b]The Predators continue their run[/b] against Central division foes as the Chicago Blackhawks come calling tonight. These rejuvenated Hawks are not the same team that has been a cellar dweller for many years. This is a team with young and exciting talent (Patrick Kane and Jonathan Toews), veteran leadership (Robert Lang and Martin LaPointe) and a solid coach in Dennis Sa...
predjoe writes...

Fortitude

Posted Friday | Comments 0
[b][i]Fortitude:[/b] mental and emotional strength in facing difficulty, adversity, danger, or temptation courageously.[/i] [b]That is exactly what the Preds showed last night[/b]. After a solid first period that found the Preds leading 1-0, the Preds were out played by the Blackhawks in the second. While some may say that this was a horribly played period by the Preds ...
predjoe writes...

Deal Done? (updated)

Posted Friday | Comments 0
[i](Updated 4:17 CST) Looks like the Deal that the Investors have accepted was the 'final offer' that the Mayor proposed. Freeman just said on 104.5 The Zone that the team is "virtually guaranteed to be in Nashville for the next five years." Freeman said they are not coming in with solutions with how to market the team better. They are just a group of people to tryin...
predjoe writes...

If...

Posted Saturday | Comments 0
I hate to write blogs based on 'ifs' but this one was too good to pass up. [b]IF[/b] (not the use of bold to emphasize how this is not happening) the NHL season were to end today (it would be crazy for it to since we haven't even hit the quarter pole yet) the Central Division would boast [b]FOUR[/b] (note bold use again...this time to emphasize how crazy this statement...
This fact is proven with the Blackhawks beating the Red Wings for yet a fourth time already this season, keep in mind the Wings only have five regulation losses, with the other coming against another central division team, the Blues. The Central Division is home to the best team in the Western Conference, the Red Wings, and no other division currently has every single t...
hasek-the wings payed him a salary for what he did last year not taking into account that hes no chelios and hes 42.hes finished ,maybe a couple games left in him. OZZIE-the man who should be starting on a regular basis is 9-1 and the 2nd best gaa average in the league{not counting sundays 5-4 win against cbj}.OZZIE is a great goalie SO START HIM. if they both start ...
Question!!!!! When will the Nashvillians remember that they (the taxpayers) paid Bud Adams to bring a football team here that cost 18 times more than what it will cost to keep the Preds here? Refer to the excerpt below. "A deal between the Houston Oilers and Nashville was announced in November 1995. The stadium would seat 67,000, with 120 luxury suites and 9,600 premi...
predjoe writes...

Announcement...Game Tonight

Posted Monday | Comments 0
[i](a note to the Nashville haters..can you give us this day? Can you give it to us without the negative comments and Nashville bashing? Thanks)[/i] [b]Well...the day that Pred fans have been waiting for has arrived[/b]. A deal has been reached with the city on a new lease the guarantees that Nashville hockey fans have the Predators for at least five more years. The har...
So I was up early this morning. Its been 3 days since the Predators have played a hockey game and I am going out of my mind. Of course it doesn't help that we lost an overtime game on Saturday to the Blues and then got outright beat on Monday by the Blues. So I am up early, all of the family who is in from out of town are starting to make noise upstairs and it won't bel...
predjoe writes...

Thanksgiving Wrap-Up

Posted Monday | Comments 0
Yes I know that I took some time off from the ol' blog this weekend. Truth be told it felt kind of good. I took the time to sit back and enjoy time with my wife and 23 month old little girl. Don't get me wrong...I watched some hockey but this weekend was about family and pausing to take time and be thankful for what we have been blessed with. I have an incredible wife, a b...
Let's examine the attendance issue of the Predators and the Economic Impact they have on downtown Nashville. Here are the stats. (Taken from ESPN) (Past 7 seasons, All attendance not just paid attendance, Titans and Preds) Titans GP Total Attendance 69,143 5 345,715 (thru 5 home games this season) 69,143 8 553,144 69,149 8 553,192 68,901 8 551,208 68,809 8 550,472...
Two quick questions. I don't have a prize but for fun let's pretend that the person who gets them both right the fastest gets season tickets for life to the NHL team of their choice! (for the sake of competition don't go running to TSN or NHL.com to get the answer!) What team leads the NHL in goals? What team has allowed the fewest goals? (Insert Jeopardy mus...
Lightningtaz24 writes...

Predators Improvements?

Posted Wednesday | Comments 9
Now that it looks like the Preds sell will actually go to the Local Ownership group, lead by David Freeman, I am interested to hear from you Pred fans as to what moves you think they will make and what moves you would like to see them make. I am referring to on-ice personnel, of course. If you would like to share your ideas on what they should do off-ice as well those comm...
predjoe writes...

To Do List:

Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
According to reports the local investment group trying to buy the Nashville Predators wants to take possession of the team as quickly as possible. This may mean as early as Monday and before the City Council and Sports Council vote on the measure. I have to think that this means that the group must feel that that approval is a mere formality at this point. Let's say that a...
predjoe writes...

Hey Dan...

Posted Thursday | Comments 0
(Not an actual OnStar call) [u][i]Barry Trotz:[/u] "Hey Dan...listen i know it's been weeks since you've started for us and you may be a bit rusty but I'd like to give you the nod to start tonight in Ottawa against the Senators. I don't know if you know this or not but the Sens are one of the best teams in hockey. They've actually lost four in a row so they are probably...
predjoe writes...

Answering The Bell

Posted Thursday | Comments 0
[b]Answering the bell[/b]...that seems to be exactly what the Preds Thursday night in Ottawa with a 6-5 win over the Senators. Every time that they were challenged by the Senators they answered. The Preds jumped out to a quick lead with a early powerplay goal in the first minute of the game. Ottawa would answer and tie it but instead of folding or laying back the Preds...
dgutzman writes...

Predators 1/4 Season Review

Posted Saturday | Comments 0
So we are a quarter of the way through the season and I thought I would offer up my analysis of the Preds on a player by player basis. Hockey is a team sport but when you analyze a team, it helps if you can have some individual stats to compare with. So here it goes. Forwards: Martin Erat -Currently leads the team with 24 points and is well on his way to passing his...
predjoe writes...

Oh My...What A Comeback

Posted Saturday | Comments 0
Okay...just finished watching this on DVR and all I can say is wow! Down 4-1 with less than ten minutes to play and the Preds come back to win in 5-4 in a shootout! Don't have a ton of time right now but some quick thoughts... [b]Work finally paid off for Jed Ortmeyer[/b]. Not only did he have a ton of chances tonight but he has been playing hard all year for us. I have...
We have all heard the cliche's about character, veteran leadership, and playing as a team versus as an individual. I will spare everyone 'most' of the cliche's, but the last 2 victories for the Predators have shown me something that I haven't seen consistantly from this team in past years. How many times have we seen a team totally dominate the regular season only to...
And hear we are, just over a week after the 5-1 loss to the Coyotes. A week ago we had newspapers and radio shows picking out who was going to be the new GM of the Leafs as everyone had assumed his days were done. Since then the Leafs have picked up 5 out of a possible 6 points and for the time being it seems as though that is all but a distant memory……For now. ...
[b]A special note to our friends at the Preds and Fox Sports South:[/b] [i]WHY ON EARTH IS TONIGHT'S GAME NOT ON TV?[/i] [b]Seriously? How often do we play in Toronto?[/b] I realize that the Preds TV package doesn’t allow for every game to be shown but there is zero reason why this game is not being shown on TV. Just glancing at the TV schedule I would gladly trade...
WingsfaninNM writes...

Shake and Bake

Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
Once again Babcock mixed up the lines, putting the youngsters Filppula and Hudler up with Datsyuk against the Habs, and magic happened.....who does this guy think he is?? Scotty Bowman?? After a short stretch of not-so-stellar performances, and a couple of injuries to key checking-line players, Mike Babcock was basically forced to shuffle the forward lines around to get ...
[i]So...today is my birthday. Today I turned 35 and I'm a bit depressed. 35 sounds really old. I don't feel old but I am old. No one around me calls me old but I see the way they look at me. What does this have to do with hockey? Not a darn thing but I wanted you to understand my mental state for my blog today. [/i] I was in the Cool Springs area today at a big box reta...
predjoe writes...

Legwand Inks Long Term Deal

Posted Friday | Comments 0
The Predators first ever draft pick signed a deal that keeps him as a Predator for the next six years for 27 million dollars. Legwand who is making 2.1 million this year more than doubles his salary to an average of 4.5 mil a year. Predators GM David Poile was thrilled to announce the extension. "This is the first step moving forward under new ownership and is a sign of...
This is great news for the Pred faithful! Spending money to lock up some key players (Legwand) and the sell of the team going to the local group is now official. I would expect Erat and Dumont's signings to follow. Those two guys are key to that top line right now. Rads is not too far behind them. We better get him locked up before he becomes too hot of a commodity. There ...
[b]COLUMBUS BLUE JACKETS THERE ARE REASONS TO SMILE[/b] The next team on my tour is the Columbus Blue Jackets. People use to think of this team as the ones bringing up the rear, but you cannot necessarily say that any more. They have a strong base of players on which to grow. Every team has to have a strong core to build on, and the Jackets has that. I like the ...
[b]It seems appropriate [/b]that guys wearing red would come calling in the month of December. That's right Pred fans the hated and despised Red Wings are in town for a 7:00 game at the Sommet Center (why do I put where the game is? Seriously...when was the last time a hockey game was played at Municipal?). Everyone knows that when these teams square off fans of both teams...
It is time to make a trade-if there is a sucker, I mean willing participant. The defensive breakdowns leading to odd man rushes and goals for the other team. The bad decisions on the point of the power play resulting in the 28th ranked power play. The mind-boggling penalties put the team in a hole time and time again. I haven't even began to speak on the salary($3.2 ...
[i](I was out sick yesterday so I apologize for no post on the Wings game from Monday night but here are some thoughts on that)[/i] [b] If there is such thing as a moral victory[/b] the game against the Wings on Monday was one such game. This was a frustrating game to watch as a Preds fan as chance after chance was stoned by a red hot Chris Osgood. Osgood is in the midst...
Anne Hier writes...

About it and About

Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
Although it is not unusual for the winning Red Wings to make the front page of the local papers, they were presented by [i]Detroit Free Press[/i] writer, Tom Walsh on 12/11/07 in a less than winning light ([i]Filling Empty Seats in Hockeytown: Red Wings Bring in Exec to Combat Sagging Attendance[/i]). This article can be found online at http://www.freep.com It appears t...
predjoe writes...

Big Game Tonight

Posted Thursday | Comments 0
[b]What used to be known as 'The Joe Sakic' show[/b] comes to town tonight as the Colorado Avalanche come to the Sommet Center to finish off the Preds four game home stand. Sakic is nursing a groin injury and will be out of action here in Nashville but that doesn't mean that this team is without firepower. Paul Stasney is picking right up where his 78 point rookie camp...
After the release of The Mitchell Report I some interesting words of wisdom from a great NHL vetern and soon to be Hall of Famer: Chris Chelios, the fitness freak he is, believes his league is as clean as white as snow. “For some reason, hockey’s never been involved, and I don’t think it ever will be,” the Detroit Red Wings defenseman said Thursday, just befo...
[b]NASHVILLE -- ARE THEY GOOD ENOUGH?[/b] The next team on my NHL tour is the Nashville Predators, a team that started out slow and has recently picked up. Why have they picked it up? Well I like their speed. They have a terrific coach, and a terrific young defense. The preds also have some very talented vets, and you get a very good mix of vets with young players. ...
predjoe writes...

Good Grief

Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
[b]Seriously[/b]...it's days like this that I hate my self imposed obligation to blog about the Preds. The day after a game that we should of won...in the midst of bad streak of games. Ugh. I just don't feel like writing today. I can view last nights 3-2 loss two different ways and support each view with a decent argument. The first view being that the Preds lost that ...
predjoe writes...

Pathetic

Posted Thursday | Comments 0
[b]Pathetic. [/b]That's the best way to describe the effort put forth by the Preds in a 5-2 loss against the Blackhawks. It all started last night with lackadaisical goaltending from Chris Mason who gave up two goals on two shots before being pulled. Dan Ellis could do no better giving Chicago their third goal on only their fourth shot. I knew then it was going to be a...
mslepp writes...

Aucoin Settling In

Posted Thursday | Comments 0
The Calgary Flames have just finished their most productive road trip in team history. Much has been said about the play of Jarome Iginla who is cementing himself as a top 5 player in the world, (in my opinion, the best and most valuable/marketable player in the NHL due to his play ON the ice and his commitment to the team and community OFF the ice)... and also Huselius a...
I've been a hockey fan all my life. Regardless of who is playing I always enjoy a good hockey game (raise your hand if you watch the IHL All Star Game) but with the recent Chris Simon incident (see video above) I have begun to question if the game has always been like this? As a fan of the game I know that coaches put out enforcers at certain times knowing that they a...
[b]While winning one game stops a losing streak[/b] I don't know how far it will go in turning the Preds season back around. Truth be told I can't get real excited about a home win against the LA Kings. The only thing I knew going into last nights game was one of these poorly playing teams had to win...there was no way around that. [b] The Preds came out flying[/b] and ...
Hitch is 0-8-2 against the Predators. If you want to go by the history of this horrid record, I think that Leclaire should be placed in net tonight considering his season thus far and being fresh. However they are placing Norrena in net again because he's only let in 4 goals in the past 200 minutes of play. Modin will not return today and still has not got a s...
predjoe writes...

Merry Christmas

Posted Monday | Comments 1
[b]Nice win by the Preds last night[/b] with a 3-1 win over the Bluejackets...I didn't get to see it but I liked what I heard. One name that I kept hearing last night was that of #22 Jordin Tootoo. I am loving his game and the way he is taking on the responsibility that the coaches are giving to him. Tootoo is making a case for him to be a top RFA signing for the Preds. ...
It's been quite a while since I had a chance to actually sit here and type something up that was really long enough to post as a blog. Plus, with all the holiday shopping, education, and a few lady friends along the way ;) I've definitely had my hands full. But now, with the holidays over and a couple of sound thrashings at the hands of the very talented Chicago Blackha...
predjoe writes...

I'm Not Alone...

Posted Thursday | Comments 0
[b]I guess I'm not alone[/b] in my feeling today of not wanting to blog about last nights 5-2 loss at the hands of the Blackhawks. I checked out the HB home page and absent were the updates from Paul and Brandon...I guess they don't feel like blogging about last night either. [b]Who can blame them really?[/b] There was little good in last nights game. Dan Ellis proved ...
predjoe writes...

12 In A Row

Posted Friday | Comments 0
Last night's 4-3 victory was the twelfth time in a row that the Predators have won over the Columbus Bluejackets. Honestly i can't believe it. Even a blind squirrel finds an acorn every now and then! [b] Last nights win did not come easy[/b] though (actually all of the contests between Columbus and Nashville are heavily contested) with Nashville having to come back ...
clarasax writes...

Ticket Deals for Preds Fans

Posted Saturday | Comments 1
Okay, Pred Nation, here's your chance to score some Preds tickets at great prices. The first opportunity is approaching quickly. Next Thursday, [b]January 3rd[/b], you can buy a child's ticket to that night's game against the Edmonton Oilers for only $1. That's right, [b]hockey for a dollar[/b] (U.S. dollar, I assume!). Here's the deal -- take a non-perishable food item...
I like numbers. Not as much as the typical baseball fan, but I like them nonetheless. So here's a nice list of them. My plan is to stare at them for a while, come up with a list of observations, and then make up some irrational impressions about what they mean. Team Avg. Attend. %Cap 1.Montreal 21273 100 2.Ottawa 19631 106.1 3.Philadelphia 19489 99.9 ...
John Jaeckel writes...

The Bowman Connection

Posted Sunday | Comments 0
During the 90's, Scotty Bowman, Barry Smith and the rest of the Detroit Red Wings were the nemeses of a crumbling Blackhawk organization. Some 15 years later, it can be argued the Scotty Bowman, himself, is a small part of the Blackhawks' rebirth. How so? Well, a few years back the Blackhawks hired Bowman's son, Stan, to their front office. A graduate of Notre Dame...
FLAMESTR writes...

Wings Next on my List

Posted Monday | Comments 0
[b]RED WINGS A FORCE, AS ALWAYS[/b] The Red Wings probably have the best Dman in the League, and two of the best forwards in the league. They are Stanley Cup Contenders. They are the toast of the west. Why? Simple, they are that good; they have a solid defense, and adequate goal-tending which looks better because of their defense. Simply put, this team has no wea...
Here are some of my thoughts on who the Red Wings should/could acquire to improve their chances for a long playoff run. [b]Mark Recchi[/b] Ten points in ten games in Atlanta, he's found new life and would fit good on a second line wing. [b]Glen Murray[/b] Power forward with some gas left in the tank, would fit good on a line with Zetterberg, probably available if the...
predjoe writes...

Solid Win

Posted Friday | Comments 0
[b]The Preds posted an impressive 5-2 win[/b] over the Edmonton Oliers who continue to find Nashville a tough place to play losing their fourth straight appearance here. Getting two goals from Alexander Radulov, a goal and an assist from captain Jason Arnott, a short handed goal from Jared Smithson and JP Dumont added a powerplay goal in a game that the Preds seemed t...
John Jaeckel writes...

The Fields of Bannockburn

Posted Saturday | Comments 0
Anticipating tomorrow night's game against the Red Wings at the United Center, I'm reminded of the final lines from the epic 1995 film, Braveheart: "Patriots of Scotland, starving and outnumbered, charged the fields of Bannockburn. They fought like warrior poets. They fought like scotsmen . . . and won their freedom." I'm officially setting aside my cynicism and real...
As a continuation of my Braveheart theme vis a vis the Hawks' tilt with Detroit last night, the title is my way of saying: right metaphor, wrong battle. Like the Scots at Falkirk (not Bannockburn), the Hawks fought valiantly, but were outnumbered, and in the end succumbed to a superior foe. Hats off to the Wings. They came out fast and focused and put the Hawks in an im...
sstrang writes...

Half-way Award Winners

Posted Tuesday | Comments 0
Here we go: [b]Calder:[/b] Patrick Kane (Chi) [b]Adams:[/b] Wayne Gretzky (Phx) [b]Selke:[/b] Pavel Datsyuk (Det) [b]Norris:[/b] Nicklas Lidstrom (Det) [b]Vezina:[/b] Roberto Luongo (Van) [b]Hart:[/b] Jarome Iginla (Cgy) [b]Byng:[/b] Daniel Alfredsson (Ott) Kane: In my eyes, better than Toews overall Gretzky: Finally showing his true coaching colours, rage an...
Not really. Well, maybe. Yes, yesterday, Dale Tallon continued his stockpiling of draft picks in exchange for the Hawks' wretched refuse, picking up a 7th round pick from Florida for Magnus Johansson. Last night I watched tape of the Hawks' AHL farm team, the Western Division leading Rockford Ice Hogs, playing the Lake Erie Monsters. The Hogs' talent has basicall...
Let me begin this post by stating that I am both a Penguins fan, as well as a hockey fan. I think there are a lot of great young players in the league today. With that, it is interesting that the media and hockey people are using the great starts of players like Lecavalier, Kovalchuk and Iginla as a reason to say they are disappointed in Crosby this year, and that he i...
Lots to talk about in the wake of last night's 5-2 loss at the hands of the Minnesota Wild, and not much of it good. Before I dive in to the vitriol, allow me to offer my season-long caveat: this team is on an upward trend long-term, in spite of its recent poor play. Probably about one third of the current roster is composed of guys who should be playing in the AHL, whi...
I woke up this morning with the kind of giddy excitement you had as a kid, waking up on your birthday or Christmas morning, you just know that today is something special, of course im talking about what I think is the game of the year so far in the BEST of the East vs the BEST of the West, the clash of the titans between the Sens and Wings. Since the start of the season wh...
Well what can I say, this game lived up to all the hype surrounding it, fast paced and edge of your seat action. The Senators showed they are a team to be reckoned with, coming on the good side of a 3-2 win against the First place overall Detroit Red Wings. Captain Daniel Alfredson also put on a show tonight with 2 goals and so many other amazing plays I couldn't possibly ...
Evidently, Cam Barker got his wake up call prior to last night's 3-2 shootout win over Nashville. He skated hard, hit people and looked like a totally different player than he did in his sleepwalk versus Minnesota the other night. The Hawks are still underproducing in key areas, most notably the power play, but played well enough to beat the Predators. The tradewinds ar...
Apparently PT Sports is saying that one of the top 3 GM candidates for the permanent position is current NSH GM David Poile. He's certainly a man who knows how to build through the draft (Suter, Radulov, Weber, Erat, Hartnell, Legwand, Klein, Hamhuis, Tootoo) As well as one who can find hidden gems from all mediums (Timmonen from Kings trade, Dumont as an FA, Mason ...
We are begining to see the signs that Nicklas Kronwall is becoming the player we all hoped he'd be. He has posted 11 pts in the past 13 games. Playing very well in the defensive zone and getting second unit powerplay time. Looks like Kenny Holland got it right again. Keep it up Nick!
Jlebang writes...

Hossa a Redwing?

Posted Tuesday | Comments 0
I've been looking over Eklunds rumor page and it lists the Redwings as a team that could trade for Hossa. Although, I would love to see this happen. What would it cost the wings? Atlanta would want a Player with some talent. As a big time Wingnut, I would be afraid of losing some of the young talent the Redwings have. Players like Valtteri Filppula, Juri Hudler and N...
Okay, I've had it with this 1pt for losing in OT/Shoot out. Officially, there are only 6 teams with losing records in the NHL. This is a joke. The NHL point system must go. I understand that they wanted to do away with ties. But this OTL crap is out of hand. Gary Bettman and the rest of these idiots who think losing in OT/Shoot out is worth a point should be shot...
The Flames dropped their fourth in a row tonight, losing to Nashville 3-0. For the second straight game in a row, the team was outright hard to watch, as the best scoring chance the Flames got all night was a clanger in the first period by Dion. The only good part of the game was seeing Calgary product Curtis McElhinney play a fine third period in what will likely be his l...
Well, it's coming down to crunch time before the trade deadline and already we have been bombarded with rumours about us getting a guy and them getting a lot of our guys. If you are like me, you have probably thought about what the numbers are and who is in the mix. Well, technically everyone is in the mix (e.g. Vokoun) but, I thought I would give the info on who our UFA...
Unless you have been living under a rock lately, you might know that the Leafs are in the process of finding a new general manager to replace John Ferguson. Today we learned that the bright minds and the very skilled researchers of our friends MLSE, found that the Cliff Fletcher was still under contract with the Phoenix Coyotes. Even though they fired him back in April...
Like Frankenstein's Monster, I was nearly driven off the chicagoblackhawks.com message boards the other day by an angry mob of villagers wielding pitchforks, for daring to say that the Hawks had no chance of making the playoffs. "This is a fan board. Why are you here?" One poster reasoned. I am a fan. But I am also a journalist, and therefore I need to make objective...
So as it would be, I am sitting here in Nashville celebrating the XMAS with family and while everyone is still asleep, I thought I would think about putting up a new blog about the Predators. Its been a long time since I have due a new job I took on around last XMAS. But after watching last night loss(Not even going to comment on the offense or lack of effort), I thought...
John Jaeckel writes...

Sav-oir Faire

Posted Tuesday | Comments 0
(All, I am no longer HB28, but my real name. Nice to meet you) I just got done responding on Al Cimaglia's blog with regard to Denis Savard's system. Make no mistake, Savard-Bashers. He has a system. He has a vision. And it's working. As a Hawk fan, it's very easy to be cynical about any member of the front office or staff who comes from within the ranks. For year...
[img:left]http://s228.photobucket.com/albums/ee162/JHRIV/th_dragnet_logo.jpg[/img][img:right]http://s228.photobucket.com/albums/ee162/JHRIV/th_dragnet.jpg[/img] While not everyone was around to watch the television show [b]Dragnet,[/b] most everyone has likely heard of Sergeant Joe Friday (played by Jack Webb) and his signature line, "Just the facts, ma'am." Since the...
clarasax writes...

Curses!

Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
Tootoo's injury was the last straw. It appears that my fantasy hockey curse is back in full force this year. So I did it. I made the ultimate sacrifice. I dropped all the Preds from my team. [sniffles] I had dropped Gelinas and Hordichuk early in the season. I dropped Bonk a few weeks ago. On Sunday, I dropped Tootoo, Legwand, Suter, and Radulov. The change ...
bongo_guy writes...

Ouch - Preds Ringin' In My Ear

Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
[b]Well tonight's game certainly had its share of ups and downs for both teams. I thought Colorado came out with a lot of speed and energy to start the game, flying up the wings and making smart passes. Then came a disheartening goal by Weber who let one rip from the point on the PP. Shortly thereafter, the Preds continued to press and wound up hitting 2 posts (if i'm not ...
John Jaeckel writes...

Water will find it's level

Posted Wednesday | Comments 1
One thing that struck me during the first period of last night's Hawks-Sharks tilt, is that whether or not Al Cimaglia, myself or anyone else thinks the Hawks are a playoff team, the Hawks themselves think they are a playoff team. That matters. And that is a credit to the youthful exuberance of the players, along with Denis Savard and his staff. The Hawks came out flyin...
predjoe writes...

Performance Under Pressure

Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
[b]Knowing that the playoff push [/b]has started in earnest for them the Predators posted an impressive 4-0 road win over a team that they are chasing in the standings. Resembling the M.A.S.H 4077th more than the team that started the year the Predators played inspired hockey in their victory over the Av's. While Chris Mason's recent play (4-1-1, 1.32, .948 in last 5 G...
predjoe writes...

Who Would Have Thought?

Posted Thursday | Comments 0
[b]I mean no offense[/b] here to the Coyotes or to their fans but I never thought that this pre All Star break game between the Preds and Yotes would be so meaningful to both teams. [b]Seriously...the Coyotes have been awful[/b]. Last year, for instance, they finished last in the West and the only team with a worse record was the Flyers. Nobody thought that they woudl ...
predjoe writes...

Ready??? Break!

Posted Friday | Comments 0
At the end of last nights game you could almost feel a collective sigh from the team. The All Star Break is here and the Preds can use a break. After playing four game in six nights (including the brutal trip to Denver) the team gets a much needed break. A time to recharge. Time to heal. Time to take a look in the mirror. [b]Last nights 4-3 OT loss was frustrating[/b] ...
predjoe writes...

Quick Hits

Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
[b]Last Nights Game:[/b] Two things went wrong for the Preds last night. We ran up against a goalie who stood on his head and won that game single handily for his team and the second thing that went wrong was the referee crew. Yes I've read the comments that running into a goalie gives you a free pass most times on retaliating but last night went over the line. Why Chara o...
predjoe writes...

This Means Something

Posted Thursday | Comments 0
[b]For years games between the Nashville Predators and Columbus Blue Jackets[/b] have meant very little to either team. In the beginning of this division rivalry the games resembled more of a fairgrounds wrestling night than a hockey game. Both teams lacked talent but made up for it with gritty players who were not afraid to drop the gloves. The Preds took many of the earl...
CBJ09 writes...

Curse Reversed, Right?

Posted Thursday | Comments 0
[b]The road ahead for the Blue Jackets doesn't get much easier[/b]. Following what could have been this year's most disappointing loss (at home to Phoenix), the Jackets pack their bags and head down to Darth Vader's lair. True, the Blue Jackets ended their 12-game losing streak to the Predators in Nationwide Arena on January 12, but playing in Nashville has been an entirel...
[b]From another name in the rumor mill to a foundational player[/b] in the Preds future. JP Dumont has played all parts this past week in the press and I, as a Pred fan, could not be happier in the role he is ultimately cast. There is no denying that JP has been red hot and the Preds had to be fielding calls from interested GM's wondering about the availability of the ...
bongo_guy writes...

Happy Feb...Avs lose

Posted Friday | Comments 0
[b]The AVS begin February with a 2-0 loss to Detroit in Motown. What more can be said? A lot. The first period was a tough one...Colorado gets 3 shots on net but played a good portion of the period in the box, including a 5-3 on which bombs were dropping from Lidstrom and Rafalski (among others). What really struck me in this period was our poor passing. Whether it was...
Wade Redden is a highly respected defenceman throughout the NHL and is being paid $6.5 million dollars a year - the going rate for a top line defenceman. Throughout his career he has been very dependable and has always been known for his quick outlet passes to spring the Senator forwards on odd man rushes. He is admired for his community service committments and will...
BlueBloodPat writes...

Improving the NHL

Posted Monday | Comments 0
I posted this as a comment in one of the topics in the forum, but I felt it was long and detailed enough to post as my blog as well; First of all....I would make no major changes to the game itself....maybe just eliminate the instigator penalty. Some of you guys are arguing that owners would lose too much money expanding the ice surface........ummm.....why the hell d...
predjoe writes...

Preds Shutout Canes

Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
[i]*Please take a moment to pray for the people of the south today following last nights horrific storms that have left at least 26 dead in Tennessee alone. In moments like this sport seems so insignificant.[/i] [b]Great win by the Preds last night.[/b] I was unable to attend as I came down with a severe case of strep throat (yup 35 years olds can catch it too!). My par...
Starting today, half of the proceeds from ticket sales for the Feb. 7th Preds game will be donated to tornado relief efforts in Tennessee. The Preds organization will donate half of the revenue from remaining ticket sales to the Red Cross to assist in relief efforts following the storms that hit Tennessee on February 5. Red Cross volunteers also will be at the game acce...
predjoe writes...

Playoff Hockey

Posted Thursday | Comments 0
Trotz has said it. The players have said it. The prognosticators have said. I've said it. Everyone has said it...this is playoff hockey. The Preds are in the midst of a stretch run that could be one of the most exciting in recent history. I thought it was put rather well by Carolina Hurricane Cory Stillman in an intermission interview during the Versus broadcast on Tues...
arby writes...

What numbers are the NHL using?

Posted Thursday | Comments 0
Can anyone recall exactly why the NHL decided to shut 'er down for a season? I think it had something to do with salaries spiraling out of control, attendance in lots of markets were down and owners were losing buckets of money. Fast forward to today. As of Feb. 7, 2008, only 11 of the 30 teams are averaging at (or above) arena capacity this season. 10 teams are av...
predjoe writes...

A White Knuckled Win

Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
You know when you ride that really scary roller coaster and you thought you had a great time...that is until you get off and realize that you were clinching your fists so tight the whole time that you cut off circulation. That's how last nights game against Detroit felt to me...a bit too much of the white knuckles. [b]The Start We Needed:[/b] Wow! I don't think anyone s...
Daniel Cleary was a first round pick in 1997 by the Chicago Blackhawks. The Hawks would only see 41 games from Cleary before bailing on him in a worthless trade to the Oilers. The Oilers didn’t benefit much from Cleary either as he played four seasons with the Oilers producing 35 points on season but otherwise wasn’t affective. Cleary would play one more season for a W...
predjoe writes...

Hawks In Town for V-Day Date

Posted Thursday | Comments 0
[b]The high octane Chicago Blackhawks[/b] come calling tonight to the Sommet Center fresh off a 7-2 thrashing of the Bluejackets last night. One can only hope that they used up their allotment last night. Led by a core of youngsters that will make this team dangerous for years to come the Blackhawks have fallen out of contention and appear to be destined to be a .500 ho...
think_mcfly_think writes...

The Journey

Posted Thursday | Comments 0
While, I'm not an overly big fan of the no trade clause, it does afford the bearer of such a clause the right to say no, just as Redden did last week. But, let’s make no mistake about it; there is a marked difference in the situation surrounding Wade Redden versus that of Mats Sundin. Wade Redden is much closer to winning a cup in Ottawa than Mats is in Toronto. Redde...
predjoe writes...

Cliches Abound

Posted Friday | Comments 0
[b]Man...I could think of a many headlines to describe last nights game[/b]. I could go for the obvious and make reference to a St. Valentines Day Massacre. Maybe the Preds had a Red Wing hangover following their emotional win on Tuesday. I could go subtle and talk about how the Preds 'Do Little' after a brilliant rendition of the Star Spangled Banner by Melinda Doolittle ...
A source has told me that Dan Ellis fully expects to be traded and that the Preds would not be getting a goalie in return but would bring up prospect Pekka Rinne to back up Chris Mason. Another source close to the team said that this idea did seem feasible because they've heard that the Preds are eager to get Pekka up to the show. Not sure who the dance partner woul...
CBJ09 writes...

When Five Become One

Posted Saturday | Comments 0
[b]It's the Cabo san Lucas to Tony Romo[/b]. It's the kryptonie to Clark Kent, the Jennifer Aniston to David Schwimmer. Call it what you want, Joe Louis Arena has not exactly felt like a La-Z-Boy to the Columbus Blue Jackets. But they busted out a bag of Cheetos and made themselves at home tonight. [b]This time, it was the Blue Jackets who vaulted[/b] to a multi-goal...
John Jaeckel writes...

Quietly, A Star Is Born

Posted Saturday | Comments 0
While most likely out of playoff contention, the Blackhawks appear nonetheless to be on their way to a successful season (as compared with the previous decade and a half of futility) in the ultra-competitive Western Conference. The Hawks will probably finish over .500. They're 4-1 vs. Detroit this season. Their line-up is studded with young players who are emerging as N...
The Nashville Predators are hosting "Free Food Night" on Tuesday, March 11. Stuff your face for free as the Preds take on the San Jose Sharks. Upon entering the Sommet Center, all fans will receive vouchers for a free Pepsi and a hot dog or chicken fingers. Plus, free popcorn will be served through the first intermission. The free food makes this game an incredible ...
1-0 Dallas over Detroit Dallas is now 8 pts behind Detroit for the presidents trophy lead Going into the trade deadline I've had two big concerns about the stars: adding a veteran defender and adding a scorer to play with Modano to keep Dallas from being a 1 line team. The young defenders are solid players, but veteran experience can't hurt, and a 1 line tea...
predjoe writes...

Preds Sticking Around...

Posted Monday | Comments 1
[i]"These Preds just won't go away."[/i] That has to be the thought going through many a player and GM in this league right now. The team that many had left for dead before the season started finds themselves sitting in 6th place right now with 21 games to go. Yes, I know that is a lot of hockey left but no one thought we'd be here. [b]Why Are We Here? [/b]For me it...
(Hold your salvos, let me explain first, not trying to pick any fights here) I started this discussion on Al Cimaglia's blog a couple of days ago, and received a few insults from a guy named "Steve" over it. And yes, a few others on the blog, chimed in that I was being overly optimistic. "Steve" challenged me to blog this subject. So I am. And I can't wait to start read...
I've been trying to post this for four days, so I apologize for the rather untimeliness. I still don't know what the problem is/was. I just hope it works this time. Before you "bomb throwers" get started, I am going to take a neutral stance on this and just want to compare how various teams would have responded. Let's hear how your team would have responded. The R...
Dammit I am MAD! [img]http://tbn0.google.com/images?q=tbn:yava-IZbgYkVgM:http://www.mamakk.com/wp-content/cyclops.jpg[/img] THIS was the face when I looked in the mirror. I don't know who I am MORE pissed off at - Marty Biron for letting Spezza shoot a beach ball between his pads or Briere for coming up so small in a do-or-die situation that an elite level player li...
predjoe writes...

Whoo...That Was Close

Posted Tuesday | Comments 0
[b]With the game in hand[/b] and the ice tilted in their direction the Predators let the Edmonton Oilers nearly steal two points in Nashvhille last night. The Oilers scored goals in bunches and scoring three unanswered goals to take a 4-3 lead. The Preds answered back seconds later knotting the game at four a piece. JP Dumont finally rescued the Preds in the final minutes ...
I've been trying to post this for four days, so I apologize for the rather untimeliness. I still don't know what the problem is/was. I just hope it works this time. Before you "bomb throwers" get started, I am going to take a neutral stance on this and just want to compare how various teams would have responded. Let's hear how your team would have responded. The R...
Another game, another hurt defenseman.....this time, Chelios, the last really experienced, steady blueliner the Wings had on the roster. We still don't know the extent or severity of the "contusion" that he suffered, but if anyone can get back quickly, it will be a fitness nut like Cheli. As for filling out the blue line corps, I think Ken Holland has his work cut ...
Alternate title: Flames Beat Wings; The Stupid Trade Rumor That Just Won't Die. Miikka Kiprusoff finally got his first shutout of the year, making 38 saves as the Flames beat the Wings 1-0 on Friday night. Alex Tanguay scored the winning goal 12 minutes into the first, stealing the puck behind the net and doing a Steve Smith special, as he sent the puck in front where i...
predjoe writes...

Playoff Preview?

Posted Saturday | Comments 0
[b]When the Dallas Stars come calling tonight[/b] to Nashville it could very well be a preview of a potential first round match up. If the playoffs started today the Predators, as the number seven seed, would find themselves playing the number two Stars. What a series that would be. While I don't like the idea of going against a world class goalie like Turco for seven g...
6-3 Dallas I don't know if tonight was a fluke or not, but if the Loui Eriksson that was on the ice tonight is the real Loui Eriksson then Dallas doesn't need to trade for a scorer. Morrow/Ribeiro/Eriksson, Hagman/Jokinen/Miettinen, Ott/Modano/Lehtinen, Halpern/Barnes/Lundqvist is a 12 man unit I'll go to war with. I heard Ralph and Razor use the Stanley Cup phrase...
predjoe writes...

What's That Smell?

Posted Sunday | Comments 0
What you are smelling is the rotten egg that the Preds laid last night against a very good Dallas Stars team. [b]Where It Went Right:[/b] The first period for the most part was solid and the Preds played step for step with the Stars. It looked like this was going to be a game decided in OT or by a late goal. Both teams were skating hard and playing a physical game. ...
[b]Down the Rabbit Hole[/b] [img]http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee162/JHRIV/morph_neo.jpg?t=1203905441[/img] [i] [b]Morpheus[/b]: I imagine that right now, you're feeling a bit like Alice. Hmm? Tumbling down the rabbit hole? [b]Neo[/b]: You could say that. [b]Morpheus[/b]: I see it in your eyes. You have the look of a man who accepts what he sees because he is...
John Jaeckel writes...

Nobody Beats The Wiz

Posted Monday | Comments 0
The inspiration for this blog came during the third period of last night's 6-3 loss to the Ducks. A fairly major scrum developed when Todd Bertuzzi (more on him in a minute) bull-dozed Patrick Lalime (most likely accidentally), a number of bodies dove in, the most obvious being Dustin Byfuglien, followed by the referees and linesmen. When the guys in the striped shirts ...
predjoe writes...

No Deal Howie!

Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
While I have been a big fan of David Poile in the past and, truth be told, will continue to be in the future I felt yesterdays moves (if you want to use that strong of a word to describe them) were wasted and not even needed. The Preds went into the day looking, like many other teams, for a top six forward. What they ended up with, in my opinion, are two role players. ...
predjoe writes...

Mother Said...

Posted Thursday | Comments 0
Mother always said 'if you can't say something nice, don't say anything at all.' Well that does it for my recap of the Sabres and Preds match up...next up a trip to Dallas to face the new and improved Stars on Saturday.
Why not? It's only 10 bucks. I'll still be posting them here, but the blog's actual address now is www.eddiesbetter.com I tried to think of a name, and this is the coolest one I could come up with. When I get some free time coming up I'm going to try to make it significantly nicer/cooler. Josh
Hockey is a game of emotion, point blank. Sergei Gonchar lost his cool on a play against superstar/superpest Daniel Alfreddson. Now I may take some heat for calling Alfredsson a superpest but let's call it as it is, this guy gets under your skin. I think the play on Sergei Gonchar is proof in the pudding. But I must also be very clear that I think there is a big differ...
Yuck. I'll bet Dave Tippett wasn't too pleased with that. Apparently NOFX wasn't either since they went to the game in lieu of rehearsing. I apparently picked wisely by going to that show instead of the Stars game. Lackluster efforts like this really need to get ironed out before April. Lines 1.Morrow/Ribeiro/Eriksson 2.Ott/Modano/Lehtinen 3.Hagman/Richards/Miettine...
predjoe writes...

A Fan Is Born

Posted Monday | Comments 0
On February 28th the newest Predator fan was born as my wife and I welcomed our second daughter, Emmeline Faith. I have already converted my two year old Sophia to be a Pred fan so getting Emmeline on board will be easy! that being said I will be out of the Preds loop for a while...I'll be back soon and hopefully the Preds will continue what they started in Dallas!
It's great to see Hull, Mikita, Koroll, Esposito, et al returning to the fold and rejoining the rising tide of Blackhawk Nation. And in that spirit, there's another old-time Blackhawk who needs to be invited back to the U.C.. He was with the Hawks for eight seasons and three playoff runs. He played on a line with Coach Denis Savard. He scored the last goal ever score...
You can probably see where this is going but bear with me. I beg you. Recently we've had some issues with blown calls. Serious issues and seriously blown calls. The one with Detroit and San Jose was unfortunate, admittedly, but let's be reasonable; one point will not lose them the President's Trophy. It will take at least two. But I digress... The incident in Atla...
clarasax writes...

Hats for Erat

Posted Friday | Comments 1
Martin Erat earned his first NHL hat trick on Tuesday against the Edmonton Oilers. However, since game was on the Oilers' home turf, Marty didn't get showered with hats. Some enterprising fans have been working with the front office to figure out how we can honor Erat's accomplishment, and an idea has taken shape. Any fans wishing to send hats to Martin Erat can drop...
[img:right]http://images.tsn.ca/images/stories/20080307/tootoo_340_46857.jpg[/img]Jordin Tootoo just hit the nail right on the head, you do have to be a man to play this game. But I'm puzzled by the fact that he laid out Aaron Miller and doesn't be a "man" and stand up for his actions. On Sunday, Matt Pettinger laid out Jonathan Toews of the Chicago Blackhawks and he ge...
The Calgary Flames were defeated in overtime tonight by the Nashville Predators 2-1. Adrian Aucoin gave the puck away deep in Calgary's zone about 2 minutes into overtime to Alexander Radulov, whose shot hit the post and was rebounded in by JP Dumont. Although one might call this a game with a playoff type atmosphere, personally I thought the Flames' effort was uninspiring...
predjoe writes...

This Is Getting Ugly

Posted Wednesday | Comments 1
[b]In a game that will be remembered [/b]by some for a controversial goal or a non call that led to said goal I will remember this game as an ugly night for Predators hockey. [b]Let me explain.[/b] The Preds were, quite simply, outplayed last night by a very good Sharks team. A team that has, for the past two seasons, had our number and dialed it repeatedly. The Ron Wi...
predjoe writes...

Who Do You Love?

Posted Thursday | Comments 0
[b]Obviously at this time of year you want your team to win[/b] but if you are like me I am scoreboard watching like crazy! Right now I am so thankful for my Spring TREO that allows me to continually check the status of games of interest. I wonder if the people at ESPN are seeing my increased use in their bottom line numbers? "Guys...ummmm...we had ten thousand hits on...
predjoe writes...

'We Need 94 Points

Posted Friday | Comments 0
That quote is from the Predators Head Coach Barry Trotz. 94 points has been his prediction for the past two weeks of the number it will take to make the playoffs in the West. That has been the number ingrained into all the Predator players as they make their push. 94 points. 94 points. 94 points. Let me throw out why I think this type of talk is a problem. Trotz has us...
Sven22 writes...

Hasek or Osgood?

Posted Tuesday | Comments 0
It's been said that if you have two starting goaltenders, you don't really have any. That might not be true if you happen to be Team Canada and have Martin Brodeur and Roberto Luongo on your side. But if you're the Detroit Red Wings and your options are Chris Osgood or an elderly Dominik Hasek, it may be so. Of course, the point of this blog isn't about speculation of w...
predjoe writes...

Not Hungry Enough

Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
[b]Needing two points to keep their playoff hopes alive [/b]the Predators came up against a team that was just more hungry than they were. The Washington Capitals looked like a desperate team playing in desperate times and wanting desperately to get two points closer to the post season (did I use the word desperate enough in that sentence? ). The Preds on the other han...
[b][i]UPDATE - [/b]The Tennessean is reporting that Dan Ellis will make the start in net tonight for the Preds. Ellis has played well against the Wings and recently was in net for the 3-1 Preds win at the Joe. [/i] [b]I will be mobile tonight[/b] at the Preds - Wings. I have not done that yet this year and I am looking forward to doing it. Follow along online or wit...
clarasax writes...

Hockey Heartache

Posted Thursday | Comments 1
[reposted from my other blog, http://beyondthefried.blogspot.com] It's a frustrating time to be a Preds fan. Hubby's work gave him free tickets to the game against the Capitals Tuesday night. Sigh. I don't think I've ever heard Preds fans boo their own team that much. The first period was really bad. They played better in the 2nd and 3rd periods, but it just wasn't e...
predjoe writes...

Last Night's Mobile Re-cap

Posted Friday | Comments 0
As I mentioned yesterday I blogged live from the Preds - Red Wings game last night. below is my blow by blow recap as it appeared live on my other blog www.predjoe.wordpress.com. [b]Pre-Game[/b] it is early...I tend to get to games early to try and nab one of my special free parking spots. I scored one tonight so I am feeling good! the Sommet Center has the Duk...
predjoe writes...

I Wish I Could Trust Him

Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
[i]Dan Ellis has unseated Chris Mason as the teams starter. [/i] [i][b]"I wish I could trust him."[/b][/i] [b]That's what kept echoing in my brain[/b] last night following the superb performance by Dan Ellis last night in goal. for the second game in a row Ellis has stood on his head and led this team to victory. First it was the 2-1 shootout victory over the Bla...
I wrote this blog in the beginning of this year, and I got bashed for it.It turns out I was right on almost everything.Please read this ,and let me know how wrong or right I was. 08 should be a piece of cake for wings...until the playoffs. Posted 12:37 PM ET | Comments 13 | Edit | Delete The season of '08 is looking great for th...
As a devout Oilers fan, let me first say that I came to terms with the Oilers not making the playoffs after they dropped 6 in a row back in December. My only hope for the rest of the season was that they would somehow find a way out of the bottom 5 to not give Anaheim a lottery pick for Penner. Imagine my surprise over the last 4 or 5 weeks as the Oilers have amazed ev...
predjoe writes...

Marked Man

Posted Friday | Comments 0
[i]Preds tough guy Tootoo could be marked man tonight...[/i] [b]At this point in the season[/b] every game for the Predators carries huge playoff implications. To say we need every point we can get is a huge understatement and tonight's tilt against division rival Columbus is as big as they get. The Preds are coming off a hard fought (literally and figuratively) 3...
predjoe writes...

Back In It...Preview Today?

Posted Sunday | Comments 0
[b]With Friday nights impressive win[/b] the Preds have climbed back into the last playoff spot in the West (Edmonton - Calgary had yet to play as of this posting late Saturday). Dan Ellis was, once again, spectacular and continues his impressive streak of hockey. He has put this team on his shoulders and is carrying them...big time! (on a bit of a side note...how about th...
Sven22 writes...

Defending the Red Wings

Posted Sunday | Comments 0
Opinion about this year's Red Wings team, as it has been each year since the lockout resumed, has been deeply divided. At the beginning of the season, ESPN's most visible hockey analysts diverged thusly: E.J. Hradek picked the Wings to win the Stanley Cup, while Barry Melrose declared them a "second class" team in the Western Conference. This division was still clearly app...
predjoe writes...

In Ellis We Trust!

Posted Monday | Comments 0
[b]Dan Ellis has strung together[/b] a series of performances that should, in my opinion, win him player of the week honors. Starting with last Sunday's 2-1 shootout win over the Chicago Blackhawks Ellis has gone 3-0-1 in his last four posting 2 shutouts and allowing only two goals and just one in regulation. The guy has been a stud. Early last week I had a post that I tit...
The aftermath of the Calgary Flames' 6-2 embarrassment at the hands of the Vancouver Canucks last night (the game itself really requires no explanation or analysis), should be as clear as day, even to the most tragically optimistic Flames fans: far from winning the division, the Flames must now, just as they did last season, focus their efforts and worries primarily on sim...
predjoe writes...

Preds Control Destiny

Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
[i]Not so much a blog as just some random comments...this is getting good people![/i] With the win last night the Preds put themselves in control of their own destiny...win out and they are guaranteed at least the 8th spot. [b]Let's take a moment [/b]and ponder the fact that no one thought we would be here at this point...NO ONE! Many of the [i]experts[/i] were pick...
I want to start with a rarely-if-ever used phrase -- Double Wow! Uhhhh...is that really how I want to start? Does anyone remember Pierre McGuire (if you don't know him, turn off your computer and never mention the word hockey again) yelling "Double Dion!" during a World Junior championship final when Dion Phaneuf corked two guys at once? The entertainment value of McGuire ...
predjoe writes...

Emotional...

Posted Friday | Comments 0
I'm an emotional guy. I am. I cry at Applebee's commericals (you know the one with the coach where they ask him to hang up his team championship photo), baptisms at church, movies (too many to name but most recently watched Rudy again for a good cry!), heck I even got teared up that first home playoff game (man that place was electric!)...so to put it bluntly I am an emo...
We Canadians understand that hockey should be in a place where people want the sport. Winnipeg, Hamilton, Quebec City ... anyone listening? However, when it comes to expansion teams this isn't the case; Bettman is still searching for his American audience and this just may be the place to find it. LAS VEGAS; over 40 million tourists visit every year. It's one of the fas...
Dan Carcillo is a rare commodity in hockey -- a skilled player who LOVES to get his nose dirty. I have heard on several occasions that Gretzky loves the guy, and after last night's hat-trick against Dallas (the game after he fought two Stars in the same game, dropping one with a single shot) how could you not? I'm sure the 'Yotes hope his goals:fights ratio balances out a ...
Well congratulations to all the qualified for the playoffs. As fans this is our favorite time of the year. Forget March Madness. This is the real fun tournament in the spring! Some final analysis on the season and the unbalanced schedule. Previously I wrote about a plan to play a balanced schedule with 86 total games. 4 (2 home, 2 away) against all teams in the con...
Remember last year when the Sens were the favorite...but Brian Murray was playing the underdog card with his team and the media? Well, it worked. He got his guys to play a physical brand of hockey that probably no Sens team had ever played before. And it was good enough to get them to the Finals. A year later and the roles seem to be reversed...with the Sens truly...
Thoughts heading into the NHL playoffs.... -- Hockey fans should be thankful for the Washington Capitals. Since long-time minor league coach Bruce Boudreau took over on Thanksgiving, the Caps have arguably been the league's most exciting team. Of course, having Alex Ovechkin helps, but Boudreau allows the Caps to play to their strengths. In a league full of stifling,...
I'm going to get my entire bracket set down instead of going round-by-round. Last year, I was 15 for 15 in predicting the Ducks over Sens; but I actually felt last year was easy to pick... this year, I'll be lucky if I get half right. Nonetheless, I surge forward... unlike last year, I feel EVERY team, 1-8, in both conferences could beat/upset and move to the second ro...
That's right, get comfy we have less than 24-hours until the start of the Stanley Cup Playoffs and as we've all come accustomed to, this ain't no race, it's a marathon. One of my favourite quotes of all-time was made by Harry Neale from Hockey Night In Canada. Back in 1994 when the Canucks battled back from a 3-1 series deficit to force game seven versus the Rangers. Harry...
Okay sooo here we go... [b]Eastern Conference[/b] [u]1.Montreal VS 8.Boston - Montreal in 5[/u] Why? Bruins will keep playing dead with the Habs. [u]2.Pittsburgh VS 7.Ottawa - Pittsburg in 6[/u] Why? Pens are too much and the Sens are sucking big time. [u]3.Washington VS 6.Philadelphia - Philadelphia in 7[/u] Why? Flyers played HUGE games at the end of the season...
predjoe writes...

Not Just Thankful

Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
[b]When the season began[/b] few expected that the Nashville Predators would be preparing for their fourth straight playoff appearance. Not many teams can lose Tomas Vokoun, Kimmo Timonen, Scott Hartnell, Paul Kariya and Peter Forsberg replace them with Martin Gelinas, Jed Ortmeyer, Radek Bonk and Dan Ellis and expect to complete. Not only did the Preds compete this year b...
Going into last night's game, my heart and I were talking, and Pumpy said "They can do it! The Sens have had 6 full days off to prepare a new PP scheme, settle their PK, and to establish a gameplan for shutting down the Pens multi-headed attack...Go Sens GO!" My brain, however, had a different opinion -- "Pumpy, you are stupid and should shut your dumb ventricles up! There...
predjoe writes...

Lovely Detroit...

Posted Thursday | Comments 0
Ahhh yes...the playoffs...every hockey fans favorite time of year. Where 16 teams are given that chance to win the sports ultimate prize, The Stanley Cup. Round one has the Predators traveling to Detroit to face the President Trophy winning Red Wings. The Preds typically play the Wings tough and should provide more than enough for the Wings. Instead of doing my typical...
predjoe writes...

Preds Drop Game One...

Posted Thursday | Comments 0
Some quick thoughts before bed (have to get up at 4:45 to work out!): Preds were out shot 40-20...that cannot happen and we have a chance in this thing. Dan Ellis is showing the rest of the NHL what we have learned this season...this kid is legit! Solid game for his first playoff start ever. He kept us in it for sure and bailed out the D several times. There...
gosharks19 writes...

Saturday afternoon thoughts.

Posted Saturday | Comments 0
I am already feeling a bit anxious today due to the 2 day break between games 2 and 3 between the Sharks and Flames. Thankfully, there is some afternoon hockey to watch between Detroit and Nashville. Does anyone else notice that Detroit is constantly almost interfering with opposing teams goaltenders? Holmstrom is always parked right in front of the net, and as much as ...
Just a few hours away from hitting the 'dome in anticipation of Game 3 between the Sharks and the Flames. I expect a wild and crazy crowd and I just hope that the Flames don't get over-hyped for the game and take some bad penalties early. I expect another tight game and hope the Flames continue to hit the Sharks and don't try to beat them at a finesse game, regardless of...
Call tonight's game what you want... "Must win." "Statement Game." "Gut Check Time." "Critical." [b]Whatever you want to call it[/b] the Predators have no other choice but to win tonight. While it's not win or go home it is win or start looking at where you'll be vacationing next week. While the Preds find themselves down 2-0 in the best of seven contest...
predjoe writes...

What A Night

Posted Tuesday | Comments 0
I am still at a loss as to how to describe last nights game. It was electric. It was amped. It was hockey heaven for a Preds fan. I cannot imagine a more gutsy performance or never say die attitude than what the Preds displayed last night. [b]Some observations:[/b] [b]Following the two goals in 9 seconds[/b] to give the Preds the lead the place went berserk! For the...
The Sens season came to an end last night after a 3-1 loss to the Penguins. Losing the game/series wasn't unexpected -- at best, Ottawa was picked to lose in 6 games. But the way in which they lost -- swept, at home, while getting virtually no contributions from the big 3 (who, incidentally, may have played their last game together last night) -- put a nice ribbon on one o...
[b]Yet another roller coaster of a game[/b] between the Red Wings and the Preds. Say what you will about either team but one thing is for certain they are giving hockey fans a great series to watch. [b]Last night the quick strikes continued [/b]as the Preds we able to score 32 seconds apart (first a goal by Hamhuis then by Weber) and followed up Pavel Datsyuk's goal wi...
[b]Just another voice in the crowd...[/b] This is a personal observation, and in this, my inaugural blog on Hockeybuzz.com, please understand that I in no way speak for everyone. However in response to the listening, reading and observing I do on a daily basis, here's my take on the Nashville Predators' 2007-2008 season. I've been a Predators season ticket holder si...
predjoe writes...

Interesting Quote...

Posted Friday | Comments 0
Sitting in my car and heard a Mike Babcock quote saying that going with his plan B (Chris Osgood) is not bad. "He won 29 games and had the best goals against average in the league," said Babcock. Wrong...Dan Ellis had the best goals against in the NHL...sorry Mike. [b][i][i]Updated:[/i][/i][/b] [i]Whoops...this is what I get for writing a blog in the car in the...
I just returned from the Sommet Center viewer night. An unexpected crowd of over 2000 viewed the game and evidently swamped the concession areas prompting a 30 minute "timeout" so they could reload. I'm sure the new ownership group was impressed and encouraged by this turn out as this seasons road to this point has been full of hills and valleys. I would love for the ...
Anne Hier writes...

The Al Sobotka Rule

Posted Saturday | Comments 0
Nobody had ever seen anything like Sean Avery's stick-in-the-face antics against Brodeur. Most people thought it was unsportsmanlike behavior, not in keeping with the integrity of the sport of hockey. The NHL acted swiftly to clarify the rules, [i]aka[/i] the "[i]Sean Avery Rule[/i]" to make sure this never happens again without an unsportsmanlike conduct penalty of 2 mi...
predjoe writes...

No Bigger Than This

Posted Sunday | Comments 0
[b]Games don’t get bigger than this[/b]. Win or go home...it will be written countless times about this game so why not one more here too! The Predators face the Red Wings in game 6 of the eastern conference quarterfinals today at 2pm CST...the Wings lead the best of seven series 3-2. [b]Getting Caught Up:[/b] Sorry I did not have a chance to post reactions to game 5 ...
I attended all three games and the viewer party in the last couple of weeks and it has been a ball. My wish is that more people in this area get to experience the excitement that was generated not only in the hockey community but to the city in general. The new ownership group looks to be top shelf and I have experienced games in all different sports in arenas around the...
[b]Beating a Dead Horse...Again.[/b] As expected, Nashville Tennessean columnist David Climer played the [i]'same ol' Predators'[/i] card this morning. Most local Nashville writers have chosen to take the 'glass half-full' approach regarding the Predators Game Six series-ending loss to Detroit, but of course David wouldn't be David if he didn't demonstrate his fair-w...
1st round I predicted: Montreal in 5 Pittsburgh in 6 Philadelphia in 7 Rangers in 6 Detroit in 6 San Jose in 5 Minnesota in 7 Anaheim in 5 So i got 6/8.. not bad I'd say lol So, here are my 2nd round predictions: [b]Eastern Conference[/b] [u]1.Montreal VS 6.Philadelphia - Philadelphia in 7[/u] Why? The Habs aren't invincible and Flyers battle like crazy....
Phigment writes...

Playoff Predictions - Round 2

Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
Well I went 7-1 in the first round and only missed the Stars knocking off the Ducks. Not too bad. Now time for round 2. West [b]Detroit vs Colorado[/b] The Avs have had a nice rest and they look very good. Detroit won against a division rival which is hard after 8 regular season games and 6 in the playoffs. I think the uncertainty in the net for Detroit will becom...
Xfactorhockey writes...

Round 2 Predictions

Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
Well, it's probably the most cliche blog a hockey fan can possibly write, but here are my round two predictions! [b]Montreal Canadiens vs Philadelphia Flyers[/b] Both teams are coming off 7 game series, but the Habs have had an extra day off and have home ice advantage. The Flyers will be playing 3 games in 4 nights. The Habs should take games 1 and 2, but I expect t...
When I wrote my first blog for all the hockey fans watching their team on the golf course while other teams competed in the playoffs, I announced that the Washington Capitals were my choice to go as far as possible. Unfortunately that all came to an end two days ago and now I have to sit back in my chair and decide once again. We're left with Detroit playing the Avs and...
Anne Hier writes...

Home Dish Advantage

Posted Thursday | Comments 0
When a team wins first place in the regular season, why can't that home-ice advantage extend to even a modicum of home-fan advantage for broadcast start times of away games? Those of you cheering on your teams in the Eastern Conference won't even know what I'm talking about. But for Wings fans, being in the Western Conference and in the Eastern Time Zone results in an ...
Defeat snatched from the jaws of victory as the refs blew their second Alexi Kovalev related call. The goal he swatted in was clearly above the crossbar, as his stick hit the crossbar on the follow through. I cannot imagine how the refs missed that one? It was a hell of a play, but illegal nonetheless. The second, and much worse call, was on Mike Richards for kne...
...We all know that "clank". It's the last minute of the game. Your team is down by one. They've pulled their goalie for the extra attacker. It's a jumble of players in front of the net when suddenly the puck pops free and right to the stick of you star. He shoots with just seconds left on the clock. It's almost as if everything is moving in slow motion. "CLANK!" ...
Are you struggling to make ends meet? Wondering how you will pay for your Nashville Predators season tickets next year? Then I have a job for you! Earn money by recruiting your friends to be new season ticket holders for the Nashville Predators! Seriously, folks, this is a really sweet deal that the Preds are offering their fans, and I urge everyone to take advanta...
...I've read alot of complaints on all teams in the playoffs so far. ...Really the only series have serious second round involvement in has been the Flyers/Habs and I can say that there has been some pretty one sided officiating. Montreal has had almost twice as many power plays. Am I to belive that while we were in the lead we were taking careless penalties all game....
After reading Julie Robenhymer’s great columns on her “fan” experiences I’ve been formulating my take on the state of respect, or lack of, that I have seen in my 30 plus years of attending sporting events at different venues around the country. Baseball is my first love, followed closely by Hockey. I really prefer to go to hockey games for live action so maybe ...
Congratulations to the Philadelphia Flyers and Detroit Red Wings for reaching their respective conference finals. -The job that Flyers coach John Stevens has done in the playoffs is nothing short of spectacular. The guy had a team that was supposed to be road kill in round one and navigated it past two teams whose coaches were finalists for the Jack Adams. Since a 39 p...
Phigment writes...

Round 2 - Prediction Status

Posted Sunday | Comments 0
I lost some steam in this round. After going 7-1 (only missing the Stars over Ducks) I set off to predict round 2. Well 2 series are complete in round 2. The Red Wings made me look bad. Not sure when the Avs got so banged up, but the Wings not only beat them, but they humiliated them. These games were blowouts and not even fun to watch. I would venture to guess that ...
chipiii writes...

Predictions 3.0

Posted Monday | Comments 0
1st round I was: 6/8 2nd round: 2/4 (I missed the whole western conference) So far, i'm at 8/12... not bad. [b]Eastern Conference Finals[/b] [u]2.Pittsburgh VS 6.Philadelphia[/u] WOW! This is going to be a series, whether it's a sweep or goes to Game 7. If the Pens manage to win you have to wonder just how badly they're going to be beaten up before the win and if th...
It is 2:34am as I am finally home and headed to bed. I had to get a few thoughts in first ... there will be more tomorrow. WOW ... that was one helluva game ... playoff hockey at its finest! Turco and Nabokov were OUTSTANDING! I cannot wait to watch the game on DVR and hear the call from Ralph and Razor! So much for the blowout ... but who knew Mr. Vezina would show...
Well, put that one in the books. You can tell the real fans from the "I'm just watching because the Mavs aren't playing" fans this morning by the red, cracked eyes. It took four overtimes in Game 6, but the Stars finally finished off the Sharks at 1:30 am Central with a 2-1 victory. When Morrow scored the game winner, we wondered if they would just review it out of habi...
If there's anything certain in this year's playoffs, it appears to be this: pray you're player didn't do a Stanley Cup promo. If you've watched any hockey this post season, you've undoubtedly seen the spots ending with various NHL stars stating, "and that's how the Cup changes everything." Let's see how these featured players are doing: Roberto Luongo and his Canucks ...
Well I followed up a 7-1 first round with a 2-2 second round. [b]Western Conference Finals[/b] I like the Stars in a mild upset. They are playing great and getting the play in net they need from Turco. I think the Wings have cruised a bit too easily so far and the intensity of the Stars will allow them to jump out early in the series. It will be interesting to see...
Well now....I've been thinking about this series and reading up on what all the "experts" have been saying and I've made up my mind. I'm pretty sure having the experts vote is the kiss of death anyway...so let them predict away (they are after all, the ones who said Habs in 5). The way I see it, the Pens have really coasted through the playoffs. They haven't been chal...
Well, I for one was surprised how quick each series ended, and really thought that the Rangers Penguins series would have been a bit closer. The San Jose Dallas series did go 6 games after Dallas got a quick 3-0 series lead, with a record 5 games being decided in the extra frame. Well lets get to what is currently at hand. [i]Western Conference Finals[/i] [b]1. Detroit...
...I'm going to be in Europe from the 9th to the 16th...so i'll be missing the first 4 games of the series. Does anyone know a way I can watch abroad??? Help! I appreciate any ideas.
It is strange how nobody has talked about the Detroit Red Wings as Stanley Cup contenders for most of the season. You know, the team that won the President's Trophy -- again. The team led by Henrik Zetterberg, Pavel Datsyuk, and Norris... err, I mean, Nicklas Lidstrom. The team coached by coach of the year candidate Mike Babcock. The team with three Stanley Cups in a...
That's a lyric from the Kid Rock song "Wasting Time". Not my favorite song of his (I am a fan though) but a darn good lyric. And one representative of this year's version of the Detroit Red Wings. Everyone in Detroit remembers Steve Yzerman lifting the Stanley Cup for the first time. Even if they didn't see it live or weren't old enough to really remember it. The image ...
We're down to the final round before the Stanley Cup. The remaining two teams after the Conference Finals will own some minor bragging rights to the East and the West, but the Cup is what defines it all. It defines every injury that was played through; every broken bone, blood gushing wound, any limp or ache: everything. And now we're only 14 games away from it all, at the...
Burt writes...

The Scam That is Maggie the Monkey

Posted Thursday | Comments 0
I have been held silent long enough. I want to personally thank many of you for backing me here. I have been talking to people and I believe Maggie's picks may be fixed. Notice how you see her spin the wheel and then the camera switches. She picked Pittsburgh and Detroit this round. (or so they would like you to believe) She spins a wheel! How lame! I ACTUALLY mak...
Well now....I've been thinking about this series and reading up on what all the "experts" have been saying and I've made up my mind. I'm pretty sure having the experts vote is the kiss of death anyway...so let them predict away (they are after all, the ones who said Habs in 5). The way I see it, the Pens have really coasted through the playoffs. They haven't been challe...
[i]3 hours to go ... anybody else feeling that nervous energy?!?![/i] There is no better way to sit down at the poker table than to be given chips on the house! There is a freedom that accompanies playing with free money ... no risk to your own bank account allows for uninhibited aggression and generally (for good players) leads to a better overall game. This is the s...
Blamm writes...

Quick Post Game 1 Thoughts

Posted Thursday | Comments 0
1) The game is over by 9pm. Wow, what a difference it makes to have an opponent in your time zone. 2) The first two periods had me in "gulp" mode, but I think the Stars were somewhat shell-shocked at the start (though I can't really say why). However, a strong 3rd period showed more of the team we've seen in the first two rounds...so I'm feeling better now. I don't t...
...Kimmo Timmonen out with a blood clot in his foot...and all of a sudden people go from being extremely hopeful to completely defeated. What is wrong with you people!?! ...I love Timmonen, I really do. He is honestly one of the best defenseman I've ever seen and he has been nothing short of spectacular in the playoffs so far. The main factor that AO wasn't on a scor...
Yet another inspiring and hard-fought Red Wings victory in the playoffs. Are the professional pundits [i]finally[/i] going to learn that the Wings ARE "physical enough" to get through this? Is anyone going to admit that the "Red Wings are too old" isn't going to fly anymore when the difference in average age between Detroit and Dallas is less than a year? No matter, rega...
WingsfaninNM writes...

Wings-Pens Final Matchup

Posted Tuesday | Comments 0
Let's face it folks, with both the East and West Conference Finals series' at 3-0 in favor of the Penguins and the Red Wings respectively, we know what the Stanley Cup Finals matchup will be already. With only two teams in history having come back from 3-0 deficits, the odds are astronomical that these two teams don't face off for Lord Stanley's prize. So let's look at t...
Tonight could mark the end of a fantastic season for the Dallas STARS. The fans in Dallas, including myself, and a few others around the world have been more than compensated for our time, money, and energy spent. It has been an awesome run filled with many memorable moments and a great sense of optimism for the future, and specifically the next few years. By no means a...
Blamm writes...

Looking Ahead to Game 5

Posted Friday | Comments 0
While the outlook may appear bleak, it's not completely hopeless. Heck, it's been done before. I'm not buying into San Jose's theory of every 33 years...I'm just saying this team has been special this post-season, so why the hell not? One thing I noticed in VERY brief spurts during the first three games that I was finally able to confirm in game 4: Detroit plays incred...
[b][i]Good quote from Mikey-Mo...[/i] [quote][i]"We've felt if we could get Game 6 at home, it would be a whole different animal," Modano said. "And then, who knows what can happen Wednesday in Detroit? But we don't want to get ahead of ourselves. We knew it would be an uphill battle. Nobody picked us to win this thing from the start. The last couple games, we've found ...
[b]Optimist:[/b] Good morning, all! I'm Optimist! [b]Pessimist:[/b] And I'm Pessimist. Today, we'll be breaking down the remainder of the Dallas / Detroit series. [b]Optimist:[/b] That's right. On the verge of being swept, the Stars have come back from the edge and have made this a series! What exciting hockey to watch! I hope this series goes to seven games, regar...
Nothing would have beaten another win, but I could not be more proud of [i]my[/i] Dallas STARS! I hate being on the wrong side of the handshake ... but our boys deserved a great send-off ... and myself and the fans came through nicely! Detroit was no doubt the better team but Dallas gave them a run for their money. After 3 straight first-round exits, the STARS erased so...
The [i]Pittsburgh Post-Gazette[/i] published a cartoon that showed the giant Uniroyal tire that is near Detroit Metro Airport adorned in Winged Wheel regalia. The air was going out of the tire and the caption was "Deflate the Wings." In response, the [i]Detroit Free Press[/i] invited readers to submit their own posters to counteract the Penguin attack. Currently, 28 ...
Seven games, decided by one goal in double overtime. And even then, it could go either way. Yes, that is the prevailing thought for this year's Stanley Cup Finals between Detroit and Pittsburgh. Through three rounds, the Wings have lost just four games while the Penguins have just two defeats. Two great teams that would be great teams at any point in the league's his...
Here we go, the last "Outsiders Looking In" Edition of the summer, and with only two teams remaining there should be plenty of us, so let's start talking some Stanley Cup hockey. [b]The Pittsburgh Penguins vs. The Detroit Red Wings[/b] A battle of talent that at times is so good it's obscene. Strong, impressive goaltending on both ends, young and rising stars that ha...
So the Latest from the NY Post has the Rangers walking away from Sean Avery. Are we missing something? Does Aves have pics of Sather in Marv Albert gear? Did Sather have his heart set on dating the Olsons? Well it looks like the closest Glen will get to one of them, is watching his Full House DVDs on the plane. What makes this situation even worse is that it looks Long Is...
SlapShot30 writes...

Enjoy It Now Pens Fans

Posted Tuesday | Comments 0
The Series heads back to Pittsburgh for what could be the start of many years of seeing the Pens in the SCF or could be the last time that we see a SCF game played in Pittsburgh for a little while. I will not go totally negative with the blog (just for you Jules) but history shows that the Pens have a long tough road to travel against these Wings in order to just get ...
Number23 writes...

Penguin Pride!!!

Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
When you hear Pens fans crow about how few Wings fans show up for games 3 and 4, they probably won't mention this little tidbit from Ticketmaster: [b]Additional Information: Mellon Arena is located in Pittsburgh, PA. Sales to this event will be restricted to residents of PA, OH, WV, MD, NY, NJ, DE, VA and the District of Columbia. Residency will be based on credit car...
Steve Willamson is my newest hockey hero. The Orlando-based Tampa Bay Lightning fan completed every hockey fan's dream last winter, visiting all 30 NHL arenas in 30 nights. Including Mellon Arena in Pittsbugh. Why is that significant, you ask? It appears Williamson is not welcome in Mellon Arena. Neither are residents of New England, the South, the West, or much o...
After watching Sundin accept the Messier Award yesterday,I couldn't help but realize why the Rangers aren't mentioned in the " Mats sweepstakes". They will lose a few vets in Shannahan and possibly Straka. Malik and Mara could walk and the cap will increase. After reaping the rewards of the first award recipient ( Shanny) ,maybe the Rangers should follow up with the seco...
Buts16 writes...

Saturday Morning Coffee

Posted Saturday | Comments 0
Enjoy http://flyerflies.com/blogs/Buts/ Have a great weekend.
Well, this was a hard night for the Penguins. This was the first home loss since February 24th. This game was frustrating to watch, as a Pens' Fan, though I am sure the Wing's Fans loved at least the final two periods. The Penguins were deflated at the end of this game, as a group. One positive was in the post game press conferences, hope could still be heard in Sidney...
CAPMESS11 writes...

FLEURY THE WARRIOR

Posted Tuesday | Comments 0
Although I bleed Red,White,and Blue for my Rangers, the game of hockey always comes first. My dedication to the game and love for the sport continues to grow as I get older.But being a goaltender, I gain more and more respect for the warriors in the mask. Their helmets and equipment are not just an obsession but their own personal styles and techniques are an art with in ...
This is why we are hockey fans. Monday night was a game for the ages, and if you do not believe that, consider the names of Bobby Baun and Babe Ruth were invoked sometime around the second or third overtime. Pittsburgh defenseman Sergei Gonchar left the game early with an upper-body injury -- and this time, it really looked like the entire upper body -- after crashin...
nephew23 writes...

Phenomenal ... What a Year!

Posted Thursday | Comments 0
I think my feelings are best summed up in a quote from [b][i]Anchorman[/i][/b]... [i][Wes Mantooth to Ron Burgandy][/i][b][quote]From deep down in my stomach, with every inch of me, I pure, straight hate you. But dog-gone-it, do I respect you![/quote][/b]I sincerely hate the Red Wings, as any true-blooded fan of another team does ... but when the last save was made and...
What a great performance by the Wings. They are a super talented and well coached team. The pressure they put on the puck at all times is incredible. The talent they they have with the draft position they have had in the last 10 years is incredible. A model franchise and classy organization. Congratulations to the team, management, and fans!! Enjoy the cup for the ...
As he watched Marian Hossa's last second attempt to tie the game roll through the crease, Dan Cleary stood at the top of the crease with a stunned look. The puck rolled across the crease -- it appeared to be a split second late anyway -- and Detroit goaltender Chris Osgood raised his hands to the hockey gods. The Detroit Red Wings had won their fourth Stanley Cup in jus...
[b]HOCKEY FANS IN A LEAGUE OF THEIR OWN[/b] Today's blog idea came from a quote from a previous blog of mine. It is a quote by Brandon Felder from the blog Name one thing that is wrong with the NHL. Brandon Felder [b]I believe that the one thing wrong in hockey is the way other fans look down at each other. In my mind, it doesn't matter what team you root for, ...
Whether you think he'll be bought out, then signed as a Free agent or traded willingly, the general feeling is that Darcy Tucker will likely end next season on a different NHL team. Moving him really doesn't free up that much cap cash, but players like Tucker can be game-breakers, and as such, retains a good reputation among NHL coaches and GMs. So, assuming there are t...
David Poile should play poker professionally. He should. I saw him on local news tow nights ago saying "I am not confident at all that we will be able to sign Dan Ellis. I think he wants to test the free agent market." Well...I'll be jiggered if he didn't go and pull off a deal that cleared the way to get Ellis to sign by trading Mason away to the St. Louis Blues. This ...
[i]Fighting in the NHL remains one of the most staunchly debated subjects in the world of the hockey and yet the argument barely divides supporters down the middle. Far from a modern topic, the recent incident with Patrick Roy’s son Jonathon has quickly risen fighting back to its usual grandstanded place. Now I’m not here to endorse stupidity like Roy’s kid or fighti...
[i]The Tennessean is reporting that Shea Weber has signed a three year 13.5 million dollar deal to remain a Predator. Great signing...David Poile continues to work his magic and get things done. This sets up our blue line for the next three years. Weber and Suter are just going to get better and better! [/i] [b]The first big hurdle[/b] in the hockey off-season took plac...
predjoe writes...

Can't Stop Thinking About Barry

Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
Ever since the news of the return of Barry Melrose was announced I can't get it out of my head. I just find it odd. I think Barry made a fine contributor to ESPN's attempt to cover the NHL but there was something about the bloodshot eyes and the Sauve hair product dripping from his mullet that have me wondering if this is the right move by Tampa. A few questions I have...
Buts16 writes...

Saturday Morning Coffee

Posted Friday | Comments 0
As usual enjoy or hate but as always thanks for reading. http://flyerflies.com/blog/ Have a great weekend.
predjoe writes...

What Does The Day Hold...

Posted Tuesday | Comments 0
Honestly when the season ended last year I didn't think we would be sitting in such a good place right now. I didn't think we would have signed both Suter and Weber and am a bit surprised that we were able to lock up Dan Ellis as well. Add to those pieces the resigning of Martin Erat, the resigning last year of Jordin Tootoo and the big extension given to David Legwand and...
ClaudeLemieux22 writes...

Hats Off to Hossa

Posted Thursday | Comments 0
I am as disappointed as any Pens fan and season ticket holder about the loss of Marian Hossa. You can also probably guess, judging from my name and picture, I am not the biggest Red Wings fan. Nonetheless, Marian Hossa did something yesterday that is seldom, if ever, seen in professional sports. At the end of the season, Hossa said that he would take less money to...
Well on July 1st some teams were bragging about snagging some star player, some teams were crying because they weren't able to sign their teams prized player and then their was us. By us I mean Pred fans who were walloping around just waiting for the season to start as we all knew nothing was going to happen and nothing ever did. Their really wasn't any reason to party...
Marian Hossa has received a thorough drubbing in the Canadian media for signing with the Red Wings. The criticism has been across the continent from Vancouver to Toronto, and from TSN as well. The worst thus far seems to have issued from Damien Cox of the Toronto Star, hammering Hossa for wanting to seek a chamionship ring and " . . . play out of a smelly, crumbling Joe ...
http://flyerflies.com/blog/?p=171 Al Strachan of FoxSports.com has published a blistering criteria of the NHL's current financial status today, declaring that the NHL is still destroying itself from the inside out. This comes in the wake of a disappointingly bloated 2008 free agent market in which a number of high and mid-level players seemed to get far more in their n...
Okay, I've read through all the articles and all the comments, now here's my weigh-in on [b]The Great Radu-dini[/b]'s disappearing act from Nashville. It may all be smoke and mirrors, but even if so, the smoke stinks and the mirrors reflect very badly for both the Nashville Predators and especially for one whose promise as a bright star in the NHL has now been all but ...
Strongisland writes...

NOLAN DONE.....

Posted Monday | Comments 0
[img]http://images.tsn.ca/images/stories/20080714/nolan_47149.jpg[/img] Ted Nolan's rocky reign as Islanders coach is now over. According to reports GM Garth Snow and Ted Nolan have decided to part ways. Kudos to Owner Charles Wang and Co. for giving Ted another go at an NHL bench and getting his foot back in the door, and at YoDingDong we wish Ted the best. This is th...
On Monday, [b]Alexander Medvedev[/b] gave an exclusive interview to a correspondent of "Soviet Sport" paper in Russia regarding the transfer agreement situation. [url=http://translate.google.com/translate?hl=en&sl=ru&u=http://www.sovsport.ru/&sa=X&oi=translate&resnum=1&ct=result&prev=/search?q=sovetskiy+sport&hl=en&safe=off]Her...
Red Wings forward, Dallas Drake, has announced his retirement today saying that he will not pull a Farve. This means that he is done with playing hockey in the NHL. He was a good, gritty journeyman and an intregral part for the Red Wings during the Stanely Cup Run. I actually met Dallas. He played at Northern Michigan and ended up marrying a former classmate of mine ...
There was an article on Tuesday on the Sharks site announcing that the Development Camp will be taking place for the next 5 days at Sharks Ice in San Jose. Unfortunate for us, the camp is closed to the media and the public, to allow for the guys to work without feeling judged. McLellan will be there, but not on the ice. He will be observing and mentoring from a room abo...
After looking at the Red Wings schedule for the upcoming season I notice some very, very sweet weekends! As mentioned earlier in Mark Spizzirri's Red Wing blog here on Hockeybuzz, they have 2 tough road trips out west and of course everyone is talking about the New Years Day game vs. Chicago Blackhawks outdoors at Wriggley Field along with the unveiling of the Stanley Cup...
Willie Wilts writes...

Sundin: Leafs or Later?!

Posted Saturday | Comments 0
Its been 19 days since the the wave of blue and white faithful sat on edge waiting to see if Mats Sundin would sign on the dotted line with the Habs. Perhaps the Canucks would lure him with that huge 20 Mil. deal they waived.. wait, maybe he's gone to retirement.. Noone counted Sundin as a Leaf for the 08-09 schedule. Noone thought he'd ever come back to the lowly bottom...
rangerspsu21 writes...

In Sather I trust

Posted Monday | Comments 0
As I was wasting more of my life on YouTube today I decided to watch one of the Rangers top, if not the top, prospect Alexei Cherepanov, aka the Siberian Express. Here's the link if you’re interested http://youtube.com/watch?v=KeanH3tLnoM. At one point in this video an analyst mentioned that the Rangers had already stitched Cherepanov in the back of the jersey. Now I'...
predjoe writes...

Where Is PredJoe?

Posted Tuesday | Comments 0
[i]Many Predator fans have been wondering where Pred's blogger PredJoe has been this off season. This article pulled from wire reports answers this question. [/i] [b]Ufa Russia [/b]- While the international dispute continues over young Alexander Radulov and his NHL and KHL contracts one American is also seeing if, he too, can strike gold in Russia. PredJoe has been b...
The Detroit Red Wings are giving goaltending prospect, Jimmy Howard, all the confidence in the world even though is has not one but two battles on his hands this upcoming year. Howard will earn $600,000 if he makes the club or $200,000 if he is assigned to the Grand Rapids Griffins of the AHL. He will not have to clear waivers if sent down. He will also earn a set salar...
I won't write what others have written about the Red Wings signing Valterri Filppula, however I will write about how much money he will will receive for the 5 year contract and what that means to some current Red Wings players. Filppula's contract is: 2008-2009 $2 mil 2009-2010 $2.5 mil 2010-2013 $3.5 mil for the final three years What this means is the Red Wing...
jammer21 writes...

The Central Division

Posted Monday | Comments 0
Today, I picked up the St. Louis Post-Dispatch and saw a story about the competition in Rams training camp for the 3rd string quarterback position. So, I decided it was time to start writing about hockey, because I’m already sick of football and baseball. Since the Post-Dispatch isn’t going to satisfy my hockey craving, I’ve taken matters into my own hands. Today, bo...
thejerseydevil writes...

2008-09 Predictions

Posted Friday | Comments 0
That’s right folks, it’s my favorite part of the summer…the part where you still have some time left before normal life resumes, yet hockey season is so close you can almost taste it. (In case you were wondering, it tastes like Cracker Jack.) And so, it is time for my 2008-09 predictions. I assure you that I purposely wrote and published this blog before so much as g...
These are just for fun, and to get discussion going. If you disagree that's cool, just don't bash, as that always seems to happen on these boards. EAST: 1.Pittsburgh Penguins 2.Montreal Canadiens 3.Washington Capitals 4.Philadelphia Flyers 5.New York Rangers 6.Ottawa Senators 7.Boston Bruins 8.New Jersey Devils --------------- 9.Carolina Hurricanes 10.Buffalo...
predjoe writes...

Back In The US of A!

Posted Thursday | Comments 0
Nashville - When his plane touched down in Nashville a tired and weary PredJoe looked around as if to be expecting a welcome committee. There was none there. No signs. No banners. Nothing to welcome him home after months in Russia trying to live his dream as a hockey blogger. "It was something I had to try or I would regret it the rest of my life," said an unshaven Pred...
The Blue Jackets are transitioning into a new team - we have a new captain, a capable coach with a plan, a GM that is willing to shake things up, a Civil War-era cannon that commemorates the Blue Jackets' connection to Ohio's role in the Civil War. GREAT!!! So why stop there? Why be happy to remain mediocre? Here is what I think (and I will disclose that some of thes...
normryder writes...

Can the NHL work in the U.S.?

Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
Sooner or later the powers to be have to wake up and publicly admit the NHL has a big problem in the U.S. gaining a fan base to compete with the NFL,MLB and even the NBA and NASCAR. You can't fix a problem you wont admit you have. When poker shows on ESPN where out performing live primetime NHL broadcast someone should have took notice and said "Toronto we have a pr...
normryder writes...

Nashville, Good Enough?

Posted Friday | Comments 0
First things first. The Nashville Predators have proven they have a good GM a good Coach and a good Hockey Team. They do a good job at the draft table, have a good AHL affiliate and have a good building to play in. So good. But is good,good enough for a team struggling to meet even minimum attendance goals and still has not managed to compete in the local media and local b...
It indeed has been a short summer for the Detroit Red Wings. By know everyone knows that the Wings added Marion Hossa to their lineup. He could have been the steal of the free agents especially since he signed quick and wanted to come play for Detroit. One thing I learned was that Hossa is good friends with Red Wings 4th liner, Tomas Kopecky. I expect this had a lot to...
mightyquinn writes...

Zetterberg to be first

Posted Friday | Comments 0
Source's close to the Zetterberg camp said that they have been told that there will be no contact talks between Henrik and the Red Wings till after December. My source has told me that the Red Wings want no distractions coming in to this season that might hinder them from having a strong start to the season. Once the New Year comes Henrik Zetterberg will be the first Win...
It's been a couple months now since the Stanley Cup was paraded around the Mellon Arena in the hands of the opponent. While the sting has subsided, the memory of that painful sight has not and you can bet it hasn't been forgotten by the likes of Sidney Crosby and Co. Due to prior engagements, I will not be able to see much more than the puck drop on Saturday afternoon. ...
I do this every year, just for fun. The so-called hockey experts have their say, and I figure why not have mine? I'm a huge hockey fan, I've been following the league since a youngster - my earliest memories the 93-94 season and the infamous 7-game series between the NY Rangers and Vancouver. So here I go. [b]Regular Season Predictions[/b] [b][i]Western Conference[/b...
I know, I know, everyone and their dog is doing predictions (although Bert is quite good at it I hear)...here goes more Western Conference 1. Detroit 2. San Jose 3. Calgary 4. Anaheim 5. Dallas 6. Chicago 7. Minnesota 8. Edmonton 9. Colorado 10. Columbus 11. Vancouver 12. Phoenix 13. St. Louis 14. Nashville 15. Los Angeles Eastern Conference 1. Mo...
It is pretty well known that the Wings need to make some kind of a move, if not two moves in order to insure they can be under the cap not only this season but for the next couple seasons. They have an over-abundance of talent on offense and defense and that obviously gives Ken Holland many options with how to get his team there. As a long time Red Wings fan, growing up ju...
FightingFerret writes...

My Predictions

Posted Saturday | Comments 0
With the 2008/2009 NHL hockey season upon us with the New York Rangers and Tampa Bay Lightning and Ottawa Senators and Pittsburgh Penguins preparing to take to the ice in Europe I figured it was about time to make my relatively crude predictions for the upcoming season! Last year I had some misses (Canadiens missing the playoffs) and some hits (Capitals winning the SE) ...
leafs_slayer writes...

Predictions

Posted Saturday | Comments 2
These are just for fun, and to get discussion going. If you disagree that's cool, just don't bash, as that always seems to happen on these boards. EAST: 1.Pittsburgh Penguins 2.Montreal Canadiens 3.Washington Capitals 4.Philadelphia Flyers 5.New York Rangers 6.Ottawa Senators 7.Boston Bruins 8.New Jersey Devils --------------- 9.Carolina Hurricanes 10.Buffalo...
leafs_slayer writes...

Predictions 08-09

Posted Saturday | Comments 0
These are just for fun, and to get discussion going. If you disagree that's cool, just don't bash, as that always seems to happen on these boards. EAST: 1.Pittsburgh Penguins 2.Montreal Canadiens 3.Washington Capitals 4.Philadelphia Flyers 5.New York Rangers 6.Ottawa Senators 7.Boston Bruins 8.New Jersey Devils --------------- 9.Carolina Hurricanes 10.Buffalo...
pecafan writes...

My Predictions

Posted Saturday | Comments 0
East: 1.) Pittsburgh 2.) Montreal 3.) Washington 4.) Philadelphia 5.) NY Rangers 6.) Tampa Bay 7.) Toronto 8.) Ottawa West: 1.) San Jose Sharks 2.) Detroit RedWings 3.) Edmonton Oilers 4.) Dallas Stars 5.) Minnesota Wild 6.) Anaheim Ducks 7.) Calgary Flames 8.) Vancouver Canucks I'm not going to make Stanley Cup Predictions because its near impos...
Eastern Conference: 1. Philadelphia- Their offense is arguably the best depth wise in the league, and they have some yound defensman that could really step up and do a good enough job to win the conference. And I think that Biron will do a good enough job as well. 2. Montreal- Fast, skilled, young, but I thinnk they will lose the conference by something as little ...
[b]FLAMES SEASON PREVIEW[/b] Someone asked me how I thought the Flames would do this year. That is hard to predict, because there are so many factors involved this season. The main problem I have with the Flames is the same old problem - not enough scoring. We have several forwards, but in all honesty, we have just too many third and fourth liners. I feel the Flames hav...
jsimms52 writes...

My Predictions!

Posted Sunday | Comments 0
Here are my predictions for the 2008-09 season: [b]Eastern Conference[/b] 1. Montreal 2. NY Rangers 3. Washington 4. Pittsburgh 5. Philadelphia 6. New Jersey 7. Ottawa 8. Carolina 9. Buffalo 10. Tampa Bay 11. Boston 12. Toronto 13. Florda 14. NY Islanders 15. Atlanta [b]Western Conference[/b] 1. Detroit 2. San Jose 3. Calgary 4. Dallas 5. Chicag...
Sven22 writes...

One man's West preview

Posted Sunday | Comments 0
I know predictions are cliche for this site and this time of year, but I wrote obscenely long Western Conference preview for something else and thought, what the hell, I'll put it up here and see if people respond. Enjoy if you have the patience to read it all. -Sven 22 1. Detroit Red Wings (1st in Central) (This’ll be a bit longer than the rest; they’re my te...
Sven22 writes...

One man's West preview

Posted Sunday | Comments 0
I know predictions are cliche for this site and this time of year, but I wrote obscenely long Western Conference preview for something else and thought, what the hell, I'll put it up here and see if people respond. Enjoy if you have the patience to read it all. -Sven 22 1. Detroit Red Wings (1st in Central) (This'll be a bit longer than the rest; they're my team, ...
habster_31 writes...

08-09 Predictions

Posted Monday | Comments 1
This hockey season looks to be a great one. It's the Habs' 100th year anniversary, there looks to be an emergence from teams like Edmonton, Chicago and Phoenix out West, and we as fans of this great game get to make our predictions of what we think might happen....So here are my predictions for the coming season. [u]East[/u] 1. Canadiens- Tanguay, Laraque and Lang. Th...
Well...after a short stint as a vodka vendor in Russia and getting caught up in a immigration for what seemed like a life time I am back. Now that I'm back the question I'm asking myself is, what is the state of the Preds? My fellow Pred fans I am here to tell you that the state of the Predators is good. Not great...good. Over the next few of days I will be breakin...
As reported by TSN and by Eklund, Leafs winger Mark Bell was placed on waivers this morning and my question to you all is: Could the "Bell" be ringing in Nashville? Knowing Predators Executive VP and GM, David Poile, probably not. But in reality, Bell seems like a great fit for the Preds top 6 forward lines. Bell is 6 foot 4 and weighs in at 220 lbs. He plays a har...
predjoe writes...

State Of The Preds...Goaltending

Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
I go into this season with a bit of a deja vu feeling. No...not the club next to the interstate with all the neon lights on the outside and poles on the inside but that uncomfortable feeling that I may see a repeat of something I have seen in the past. Is seems like only a year ago...wait...it was exactly a year ago...that the Preds were heading into the season with a new ...
Nashville Predators Shea Weber canceled his interview with NHL.com's "NHL Live" for the second time at the last minute today. It was apparent as the show went on that co host Don La Greca was quite miffed at Weber for leading the show into believing he was going to be a call-in guest. Then after they promoted his spot for 2/3 of the show he canceled for the second time. ...
NosCanadiens writes...

PREDICTIONS CONFERENCE EST

Posted Thursday | Comments 0
Comme chaque annee, le temps est venu pour les experts, pseudo-experts, et amateurs de hockey de predire le classement final qui prevaudra dans la LNH au mois d'avril. J'ai moi aussi mis ma boule de crystal au travail et voici ce que je prévois comme classement de la Conférence Est. J'espere que j'aurai plus de succes que l'an dernier, alors que j'avais reussi à prevoir...
Elchrisco writes...

How The East Will REALLY Look

Posted Thursday | Comments 0
Want a set of predictions that are a little bit off the beaten path? how about... 1) New York Rangers 2) Carolina Hurricanes 3) Montreal Canadiens 4) Pittsburgh Pengiuns 5) Philadelphia Flyers 6) Ottawa Senators 7) Washington Capitals 8) Boston Bruins 9)Florida Panthers 10) Buffalo Sabres 11) New Jersey Devils 12) New York Islanders 13)Tampa Bay Lightning 1...
IslandDynasty writes...

My 2008 NHL Predictions

Posted Thursday | Comments 0
[b][u]EAST[/u][/b] 1-Montreal Canadiens 2-New Jersey Devils 3-Carolina Hurricanes 4-Pittsburgh Penguins 5-Ottawa Senators 6-Tampa Bay Lightning 7-Boston Bruins 8-New York Islanders ---------------------------- 9-Washington Capitals 10-Philadelphia Flyers 11-Buffalo Sabres 12-New York Rangers 13-Florida Panthers 14-Toronto Maple Leafs 15-Atlanta Thrashers ...
Western Conference 1. Detroit (Central Division champions). Take away a ten-game stretch late in the season, and last year's Wings were one of the best teams in NHL regular season history. This year's squad is better. 2. San Jose (Pacific Division champions). It is no secret Patrick Marleau and Ron Wilson did not see eye to eye the past couple of years. A coaching ch...
I always enjoy playing out big Sabres games just before they take place on my PS2...sort of "predicting" if you will. I set the rosters up so that they match the Game Day rosters, and I go at it. Historically, I'd say I pick the winning team about 75% of the time whenever I do this, so it's pretty accurate. In fact, I've done playoff games in the past in which I get the...
So far I have touched on the defense (I think we are good), goaltending (bold prediction...I think we are great) and now comes the offense. I have saved the most difficult for last. Let me say up front that offensively I think we are going to have problems. I am not blaming all this on Radulov's journey back to play for the Russian mafia but we will miss his 26 goals fo...
Hockey is upon us once again! As much as I like baseball playoffs, nothing beats Game 1 (in North America) of the NHL season in my eyes. And I really couldn't believe my eyes when the Leafs survived three posts in the first 10 minutes of the game to win 3-2 against the Wings. Absolutely brutal game to watch, but a trap system played very effectively by the Blue and Whi...
The Eastern Conference 1. Pittsburgh 2. Washington 3. Buffalo 4. Montreal 5. Philadelphia 6. NY Rangers 7. New Jersey 8. Carolina 9. Ottawa 10. Toronto 11. Tampa 12. Boston 13. Florida 14. Atlanta 15. NY Islanders Western Conference. 1. Detroit 2. San Jose 3. Edmonton 4. Vancouver 5. Calgary 6. Chicago 7. Anaheim 8. Dallas 9. Colorado 10. ...
predjoe writes...

Gutsy...Arnott Update

Posted Tuesday | Comments 0
[b]Arnott Update: [/b]The Predators are reporting that Jason Arnott has fractured one of the fingers on his right hand. He is expected to miss at least the next three games. Preds did not release which finger it was...odd...does it matter? Not good news for the Preds but it could have been worse. Let's hope that the timeline of three games is true. [b]With a sol...
predjoe writes...

Seeing Stars Tonight...

Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
The Preds (2-1) ride a modest two game win streak into Dallas (0-1-1) to face a hungry Stars team. Sound familar? Sound like an opening line to the blog about the game at Chicago on Monday? The only difference is that Dallas has already had their home opener...but this team is no less hungry. With an OT loss to open the season at home and then a road loss in Nashville ...
predjoe writes...

Who Knew We Were Invited...

Posted Thursday | Comments 0
Who knew the Preds were invited to a coming out party last night? I didn't...but that is exactly what happened. The Preds, and the rest of the NHL, got a look at the force that is Fabian Brunnstrom. The 23 year old Swedish talent became the third player in NHL history to net a hat trick in his first game and in the process has everyone wondering just how good this guy will...
It was the 6-1 red hot Rangers coming into Detroit to face the Stanley Cup Champion Red Wings who held a mediocre 2-1-1 record. Both teams showed up to play and turned out one of the most exciting hockey games of this season. At first it seemed to be devloping in to a one-sided affair, with the Wings capitalzing on the Rangers' slow start with two goals in the first four m...
With all the Dollars and cents the KHL offers,it makes no sense that the hockey world lost one of its future stars. Regardless of his talents,not a single player should have their life in jeopardy playing pro hockey. With all the hazards the game brings naturally, ( Concussions,puck movement,stick infractions,and skate blades) to fight for your life on the bench seems ins...
predram writes...

Weber = Beast?

Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
Its starting to get pretty clear that Shea Weber is really living up to the hype that has surrounded him for the last few years. One memorable moment of mine was in the 2006 playoffs against San Jose when Shea absolutely laid out Milan Michalak. Shea went flying into his own bench and Michalak appeared to be shaken up. Then in the 2007 playoffs, head coach Barry Tr...
There have been many surprises so far this season, and the following is judgement of which occurences are "real" so to speak and will continue throughout the season, and which are abberations and won't last very long: [b]Thomas Vanek will lead the league in goals[/b] This young star is off to a quick start and is the real deal. After scoring 43 goals in his sophmore se...
AlexanderScharf writes...

Meet Wade Redden

Posted Sunday | Comments 0
Hello, I am New York Rangers defenseman Wade Redden. For those of you who don't know, I was a 2nd overall draft pick by the Islanders in the 1995 NHL Entry Draft. Since then I have played 11 NHL seasons with the Ottawa Senators. My career started well as a promising young offensive-defenseman. I scored 30-50 points in most seasons and my +/- usually hovered around +20. But...
bagasome writes...

Home Sweet Home

Posted Monday | Comments 0
The Capitals are finally back home after a three game road trip out west. The Caps went one and three on their road trip to Calgary, Phoenix, and Dallas. They picked up two points on the trip, while they would have liked at least three points, they remain tied for first in the Southeast with Carolina. The Caps play the Nashville Predators Tuesday night at 7pm, however, the...
airtsabes writes...

Defensive liabilities?

Posted Monday | Comments 0
These are the 10 worst +/- players in the league: Player Team GP G A P +/- TOI/G Kris Draper DET 8 0 0 0 -6 11:46 Fabian Brunnstrom DAL 7 5 1 6 -6 13:18 Chris Phillips OTT 8 0 1 1 -6 21:44 Adrian Aucoin CGY 8 1 0 1 -6 15:43 Nick Foligno OTT 8 2 1 3 -6 13:54 Brent Sopel CHI 7 0 1 1 -6 15:14 Tom Preissing LAK 5 1 2 3 -6 18:29 Bre...
predjoe writes...

Two Fans Chatting...

Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
[i]This is an actual conversation that happened over instant message between two Pred fans who work together. [/i] [b](11:04:36 AM) Joe[/b]: I hated that the game was not on last night [b](11:04:52 AM) Joe[/b]: but it might have been for the best...sounded very frustrating [b](11:05:51 AM) Jason[/b]: yea I don't know. I listen for a bit during the 1st period and then ...
http://capsstop.blogspot.com The Washington Capitals and Nashville Predators battled back and forth like prize heavy-weight fighters in DC on Tuesday night, trading goals on three different occasions. It was Michael Nylander who delivered the knockout blow for the Capitals in the fourth round of a shootout. The Caps never trailed and head to Buffalo with a big two point...
From: http://capsstop.blogspot.com The Washington Capitals and Nashville Predators battled back and forth like prize heavy-weight fighters in DC on Tuesday night, trading goals on three different occasions. It was Michael Nylander who delivered the knockout blow for the Capitals in the fourth round of a shootout. The Caps never trailed and head to Buffalo with a big two...
saneopinion writes...

The game with everything

Posted Friday | Comments 0
It seems obvious to me that Craig Conroy is an avid hockeybuzz reader because after I ripped into him after last game he came out and had his best game of the season. The game tonight had everything you would want as a hockey fan, the second period alone had 5 goals, 2 fights and a massive hit by Sarich. The game had fights, goals, big saves, bad refing...really bad, b...
predram writes...

Wednesday thoughts

Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
BURKE LEAVES DUCKS?!? Yes it has happened. As reported by TSN and Ek, Ducks GM Brian Burke has indeed left his job after indicating that he was not looking to seek an extension with the team. Assistant GM Bob Murray will take over the reigns and much deservingly so. Murray has been around different organizations in different roles. He has had previous GM experience with...
airtsabes writes...

Who wins the Stanley Cup?

Posted Thursday | Comments 0
Winners of the last 20 Stanley Cups and how they finished in their conference: [img]http://hotpointshockey.com/images/stanleyCup2.jpg[/img] 07-08 Red Wings 1rst 115pts 06-07 Ducks 2nd 110pts 05-06 Hurricanes 2nd 112pts 03-04 Lightning 1rst 106pts 02-03 Devils 2nd 108pts 01-02 Red Wings 1rst 116pts 00-01 Avalanche 1rst 118pts 99-00 Devils 4th 103pts 98-...
The Tampa bay Lightning have fired Barry Melrose because of a bunch of overpaid, whining, pretty boys who didn't like being called out for making EXTREME amounts of money and being LAZY. This is a sad day for hockey. Melrose demanded his players skate hard every shift. He stated that they are an incredibly talented team, but that gets you nothing if you don't work har...
HockeyBuzz so far has been great to me. Being able to share thoughts, opinions and other things with fellow hockey fans all across North America and even overseas is awesome. Hockeybuzz also is my first experience in blogging. I have written in and was editor-in-chief for my school newspaper in high school, managing different sections from time to time and eventually, the ...
predram writes...

Sharks vs. Preds - Fight review

Posted Wednesday | Comments 1
Monday night's game was anything but pretty for the Preds. The inconsistent scoring is starting to hurt this team. One game you get 6 goals, the next you get none, then you get 3 and the next you get 1 (no particular order but games vs CGY, VAN, ANA and SJ). To make matters worse, Captain Jason Arnott left the game after colliding with Sharks forward Joe Pavelski and eve...
And, oh yeah, who predicted that? Mind checking my Oct. 2008 archives for my NHL season predictions? Because if I recall, I was nearly crucified by the Hockeybuzz community for my "outlandish" remark that the Canucks would win the Northwest Division. Granted, I know there's a lot of puck to be played, but take a look at those standings, and see if I had any brain ...
[b]Global Markets Down[/b] [img]http://i228.photobucket.com/albums/ee162/JHRIV/primerate1.jpg?t=1227324887[/img] I'm sure you've read the papers and heard the nightly news. On Wall Street, the Dow hits it lowest levels in 5 1/2 years. On Main Street, U.S. jobless claims hit a 16 year high. From the Great Wall to the Champs d'Elysee, global recession fears send Asi...
No, this isn't a PSA for the American Red Cross; it's a statement of fact for a hockey team. The Nashville Predators need a transfusion -- fast. As well as Barry Trotz' crew has played at times this season, there seems to be a fragility to this edition of Nashville's team that must be addressed soon, or there may not BE a team in Nashville in the not-too-distant future....
kent writes...

Canucks vs. Redwings

Posted Tuesday | Comments 0
To many Vancouver fans, the Luongo injury was/ is bad news, but to those that have been following the team closely, many know that the team is a tight knit united that wasn't going to shake in its boots and collapse. This team had already won 2 games in a row with Sandman in net, and the red hot trio of Demitra and the Sedins has been looking like a fit that won't be broke...
Inspired by Jason Blake's unmovable contract I thought I'd post the 5 Most untradeable contracts in the league. 5. Ryan Malone 4 more years @4.5 million- This was a toss up between him and Michael Ryder. Malone wins because his team is playing terrible. It doesn't matter if you're a playoff performer if you can't get your team to the playoffs. 4. Sean Avery 3 more y...
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'm going to try to make this quick since I really should be studying for an exam. Last night was god awful for the Preds. The team had no life on the ice and seemed drained from the previous night. The powerplay was dismal, esp. in the 3rd period. Yes they scored a PP goal...on a 5 on 3. Game was bad, Canucks were better. OK. Great. Now on to the hits. The Daviso...
What had looked like their best effort of the season turned into the most heartbreaking loss of the year for the Calgary Flames tonight. Despite two two-goal leads, an unexpectedly valiant effort from Curtis McElhinney in net, and the best overall effort of the season, the Flames still lost 4-3 in overtime to the Red Wings. There are two main reasons I see for this los...
blldem writes...

I'm Back Baby

Posted Thursday | Comments 0
After a long hiatus due to user name and password issues, I am back and I have a beef. How in the name of Gary Bettman can he have the player ted for the lead league in goals as a write in candidate for the NHL All-Star game. Jeff Carter is having a monster year and has barely any All-Star votes in comparison with your "superstars" of the league. I know he will be added...
arby writes...

We're going Streaking!!

Posted Thursday | Comments 0
Streaks are a funny thing, and no matter how your team is playing you can find a stat or a trend to either make you feel better or worse about them. The Canucks? Let's have a look: The preview for Tuesday night's game in Nashville (a 3-1 victory for the Whale) stated that we were a slumping squad mired in a 1-3-1 funk on our current 7-game road trip. Combined with th...
WOW! Finally something to cheer about and even put to paper ... or web page, as it is! The Dallas Stars shut down and defeated the mighty - and much hated - Detroit Red Wings! If nothing else comes of this season, we can celebrate this night as our (mini) Stanley Cup victory! Clearly, the Stars have had very little to be happy about so far this season. That goes for...
Anne Hier writes...

Let the Season Begin!

Posted Friday | Comments 0
The 2008-2009 regular season officially began for Red Wings and their fans last night with the 6-0 win over the Sharks. Awarding the Stanley Cup championship rings this week was absolutely the last celebration of the 2007-2008 season in Hockeytown. It is now back to nothing but business. Frankly, it has been hard to get too concerned about the Wings so far this seas...
Happy Holidays to all of my fellow HockeyHeads out there... I Wish the best to all into the New Year which, for the NHL, begins at the corner of Clark and Addison for the 2nd Annual Winter Classic--which seems like an oxymoron, but I digress. In a very short time, the W.C. has unquestionably become one of the too few highlights for the NHL (regular season) that really ...
polastem writes...

We Three Kings

Posted Saturday | Comments 0
[IMG]http://www.icebullshockey.com/chris/nhltol/logos300/ott.png[/IMG] The Ottawa Senators will continue the 8 game road swing featuring the likes of the Boston Bruins and the New Jersey Devils, but they will first have to kick off the road swing with back to back games against the Calgary Flames tonight, and the Vancouver Canucks tomorrow. Not an easy challenge for any t...
martok2309 writes...

h-h-ho-how?

Posted Sunday | Comments 0
In a game that would have even Jeff Goldblum studdering, the Avs beat the Red Wings. It was a wierd game, Saturday night, one that the Avs were supposed to lose. Thanks to Oli Jokinen and a snow blower, the Avs were without Paul Stastny and Joe Sakic, respectively. They had Tyler Arnason taking Paul Stastny's spot. They were starting Peter Budaj, who hasn't played well...
Anne Hier writes...

I Can't Breathe Up Here!

Posted Sunday | Comments 0
The effects of high altitude are well known in professional and amateur sports. On the plus side, the thin air means the athletes will be able to move with less drag and greater efficiency. However, unless trained or acclimated to altitude, most teams will not be able to perform at maximum level when playing in Denver. This is especially true when the athletes are hockey ...
1. How much money does the Freeman Group really have for the Preds? 2. After 11 years have the Preds fan base shown any significant growth? 3. Do the Preds have the talent in the system to get past the 1st round of the playoffs in the next 3 years (this year included)? 4. If no was your answer to question 3 do you think the Preds will still be here after 3 years...
Most of the time, third uniforms are a failure - in all sports. Lot's of teams will go with a color combo - usually to black - to look tough, one supposes. Or, they go with colors that are non-traditional for the team. Or, they find some "designer" to "update" the look. Unfortunately, on the whole, one gets the impression that the creation of a third look is only d...
Well the eastern roster is out and the habs, thanks to their loyal fans have 4 players in the starting lineup (they would have had 6 if it was not for pens fans). Lets look at the 4 players the habs have in the all star game (cant argue with Malkin and sid for starters) # Pos Player GP G A P +/- PIM 79 D Andrei Markov 39 6 23 29 8 18 ...
[img]http://tbn0.google.com/images?q=tbn:wAngNR2wPZwBEM:http://images.teamsugar[/img] In a season where everyone either predicted or was warned the Leafs would place bottom 5 in the East, I'm a little surprised the team was booed by the club's faithful fans in a tilt with the Nashville Predators. As of today, right now, this very second… (this second too) the Leafs...
senate666 writes...

Who is the NHLs Best Player?

Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
Jesse Connolly's recent article, entitled "Why Alex Ovechkin Will Never Be the Face of the NHL" really got me pondering this question again, as I have so many times in my life. There has always been a player regarded as the face of the NHL, and that player was generally recognized as the best in the league at that time: Players like Richard, Howe, Orr, Gretzky and Lemieux ...
jmayes75 writes...

Hockey In Nashville

Posted Friday | Comments 0
First of all let me introduce myself. My name is Jason and I have been a Predators season ticket holder for 10 years. I'm 33 years old and grew up watching hockey in Nashville, TN. That's right, you read correctly, grew up watching hockey; not only on TV but also in person. I use to go to the old Nashville Knights ECHL games and fell in love with hockey at an early age. My...
Richie18 writes...

NHL Second Half Predictions

Posted Saturday | Comments 0
As we get ready for the second half of the season, I have my lead-pipe lock predictions for the second half. Some of my predictions will be positive, others will be negative. 1. The Columbus Blue Jackets will make the playoffs this season. Why? Steve Mason will single handedly lead them to the playoffs. Yes, I understand that he's a rookie and there is a possibility tha...
I was completely expecting a bore-fest at GM Place last night. The last few games between the Preds and Canucks have been exactly that. However, last night might have been the exception. The Preds came into the game with a powerplay ranked 29th in the league. That kind of tells you how poor the team's top players have performed this year. OR it tells you how badly they ...
FLAMESTR writes...

Flames sweep Preds

Posted Saturday | Comments 0
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...
icedog97 writes...

The Writing is on the Wall

Posted Sunday | Comments 1
Part of me is a diehard Pens fan and I will cheer for them until the bitter end. That part won't let me throw in the towel until the final horn sounds. But...the other part...the rational one...tells me that this team is simply not good enough to make the playoffs. Last night's 4-3 loss to the Devils was a crusher. Tonight's loss to the Leafs may have been the na...
After dwelling in the basement of the Western Conference for most of the season, including dead last at #15 only 19 games ago, the Dallas Stars have battled all the way back to the #7 seed. According to the NHL, the Players Association, and the Collective Bargaining Agreement ... that means the Stars are currently a playoff team! With their domination over Detroit this y...
The mathematical answer is yes, of course. The realistic answer is who knows. In this, my first blog, I will examine what it will take. Coach Trotz said during the All Star break we need 4 points in every 3 games. I agree. In other words win 2 of every 3, or at least the equivalent. The Preds had 36 games remaining after the break so that would equal 48 points to be a...
Smoking, blistering, red hot does not even come close to describing the roll the Dallas Stars are on right now. It is amazing and surreal. 30th place in the league for a while and counted down and out by many, the Stars have more than righted the ship and served notice to the entire NHL that their season has just begun! Dallas, with 4 games in hand on Anaheim, sits 2n...
How many fans have to suffer at the fault of owners that just don't get it? Can any one name the owner of the Atlanta Thrashers? - Exactly! - Its actually a group (the Atlanta Spirit LLC) who is still fueding... In the meantime, Ilya K and the gang and the fans get to wallow in the mire while the Atlanta Spirit LLC figures it out. I'd never want to call for anyone's head,...
John Jaeckel writes...

Watch Chicago This Week

Posted Monday | Comments 0
The big question in Chicago this week will not be the ongoing goalie Soap Opera (now starring a new player, unorthodox Finnish import, Antti Niemi). It won't be the running debate between Hawk fans as to whether 2005 first round pick Jack Skille is the second coming of Bobby Hull or Ken Yaremchuk. It won't even be rumored minor deals for the likes of Dominic Moore, N...
I'm going to go out on a limb here and say something that many of you will find to be absolutely ludicrous: Glen Sather has done a fantastic job since 07. Yes, THAT Sather. I will go as far to say that Sather made only two glaring post-lockout mistakes: signing TWO free agent centers in the summer of 07 and inking Redden. In the 07 offseason, Sather probably shoul...
So we are into the nailbiting time of the season. Every game matters. Can we do it? Use this link to follow the preds chances. http://www.sportsclubstats.com/NHL/Western/Central/Predators.html The one thing I do believe, is that regardless of whether we can make the playoffs, we are not a playoff hockey team. If we make it it, it will be more b/c of what others ...
It is tough to write up much during a postseason run without becoming repetitive. So I am just going throw out my predictions for the final standings in the East. Let me know what you think. 1. Devils- Have been playing great all year and Brodeur has been solid. 2. Bruins- In a controlled free-fall right now and have all the signs of a "one-and-done" team. 3. Capitals...
Phigment writes...

Round 1 Playoff Predictions

Posted Monday | Comments 0
[u][b]Eastern Conference[/b][/u] [b]Boston vs Montreal[/b] The Bruins are too good and Montreal is not stable in goal. Bruins win in 5. [b]Washington vs NY Rangers[/b] Too much Ovechkin and Greene for Lundqvist to steal the series. Caps in 6. [b]New Jersey vs Carolina[/b] This one is tough. Jersey sort of limped in before the playoffs and Carolina was hot! Both ...
sstrang writes...

Round 1 Predictions...

Posted Monday | Comments 0
I know, everyone and their mother (or in some cases, dog) have predictions but here we go anyway: [b][u]Eastern Conference[/u] [/b] [b]Boston vs. Montreal[/b] - Boston will ride Timmy Thomas as long as they can - Bruins in 6 [b]Washington vs. New York Rangers[/b] - Alex the Great and that cannon from Greene on the point should carry them - Caps in 5 [b]New Jersey vs...
[u]EAST:[/u] [b]BOS over MON in 5[/b] (Price has a playoff meltdown while BOS defence flourish) [b]NYR over WAS in 7[/b] (a hard-faught battle with Lundqvist besting Theodore) [b]PHI over PIT in 6[/b] (Philly's toughness gets the best of Crosby & Fleury) [b]NJD over CAR in 6[/b] (Brodeur is back to post-season form, but CAR puts in four solid one-goal games) [u]WEST...
That was the worst finish I've ever seen in my life for a series-clinching game in the NHL playoffs. What a joke! All the many calls let go and the linesman decides to make that ridiculous call at that critical moment of the game. Pathetic! The Blue Jackets deserved better. The linesmen should be embarrassed ... the refs should be embarrassed ... and the league should...
MrBigglesworth writes...

Stuff

Posted Monday | Comments 1
I honestly dont think it matters what happens in the East bracket, [b]the Red Wings are unstoppable![/b]... even by Tim Thomas and the Big Bad Bruins. This is not an easy pill to swallow, coming from a guy whos inlaws are from Michigan, and whos wife's cousin married a Michigan State hockey fanatic dubbed simply as "the Angry Guy". Beckster and I go out there ever year...
sstrang writes...

2nd Round Predictions

Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
So I was 7 for 8 in 1st round predictions (Sharks....tsk tsk tsk). Not only did they screw up my predictions but my playoff pools are done! On to Round 2: [b]Boston (1) vs. Carolina (6) -[/b] This will be a great series. I like Carolina but Boston, after disposing of the Canadiens in 4 straight are riding high with confidence - I'll go [b]Bruins in 6[/b]. [b]Was...
Like everyone else, I’ll give my predictions for this upcoming 2nd playoff round of the greatest sport on planet earth. Let me get one thing off my chest before we start. Goalies will make and break everyone of these matchups, and are MY key to who I think wins each series. [i][b]Pens vs Caps: [/b][/i] Everyone sees Ovechkin and thinks this one is gonna be close. I...
Brown's "controversial" hit on Hudler in game 1 of the Detroit vs Anaheim series was legal and clean. It was shoulder to shoulder and Hudler got rid of the puck less than 2 seconds before. It didn't help Hudler that he wasn't paying attention, or was slightly bent over as he was turning up the ice. [b]The problem is that Hudler was skating in one direction, but playing the...
I don't know why, but it seems like in every playoff game this year I've seen at least one goal called off because the referee was not in position to make the call or seen a team called offsides by a line judge trying to catch up or who got in the way of a clearing attempt. Tonight it was Detroit's Marian Hossa who scored the game-tying-goal with just over a minute left...
MichaelBernard writes...

Don't Pull Hiller

Posted Friday | Comments 0
If you play Detroit 7 games straight, you're going to let up 6 goals one of those games. I hear the whispers from you Ducks fans about Hiller. Of course you'll give a bad rebound here and there, Zetterburg, Hossa, and Datsyuk are shooting on you. You'de be lucky to give up rebounds period. Its a tough feat to bring down the Sharks and then face the Red Wings, think about ...
Versus showed the aftermath of the Detroit Red Wings-Anaheim Ducks Game 6 during the first intermission of tonight's game 7 between Pittsburgh and Washington. After watching it I can't help but think that the NHL has lost control of these playoffs. Maybe it's just because they have two of the dirtiest teams in the league playing each other, or maybe it's because Colin Camb...
MichaelBernard writes...

Round 2 > Round 3

Posted Friday | Comments 0
I was wrong on my Boston in 4 predicition, but who wouldn't have thought the B's were gonna roll through Carolina after their dismantling of Montreal like they did. Down 3-1 in the series, I thought for sure Boston was done. When Boston tied it up 2-2 in game 7 that changed my mind a bit. Then came overtime. What pure domination Carolina showed through the first 10 minutes...
Memo to Bettman: Don't move up the Stanley Cup Finals without checking Yanni's schedule at the Igloo,first. And where is that Pan Flute guy playing these days? And don't forget the WWF. Your pals back at the NBA had to pay big bucks to resolve that conflict with the wrestlers in Denver.
amerk626 writes...

Is Lou Losing His Touch?

Posted Tuesday | Comments 0
In all honesty, I have attempted to write this blog more than a handful of times, but I either got frustrated just thinking about it and Xed out, or I could not organize my thoughts properly. Rather start with a tacky intro, I'll get to the point. Since the lockout, the best way I can describe a typical New Jersey Devil's regular season is like drinking a red bull. It t...
At least they got swept. Holik OUT, Havelid OUT! Im ready for the home opener. Bring on Phaneuf!! Good Call Ek. Rest in Peace Peter Zezel. Down with the Wings.
While it is an exciting time to be an Islander because of the tremendous hustle and bustle regarding the first overall pick, you can bet your ass no one is having more fun than Penguin and Red Wing fans. For the second year in a row, the Penguins and Red Wings will be facing off in the Stanley Cup Final, and you can bet that both teams will be even more prepared for each o...
BryanM writes...

Tired of Talk

Posted Monday | Comments 0
Listen up all you Penguin-haters! This blog is for you! It hasn't even been 12 hours since the game ended, and already I've seen multiple stories suggesting that this series is a repeat of last year's Cup Finals. That the result will be the same and there is nothing the Penguins can do about it. They can't win four out of five against Detroit. It's time for all of us...
Anne Hier writes...

Stanley Cup Finals Notes

Posted Monday | Comments 0
1) Glad to see that Malkin didn't get suspended. When you have two skaters who don't have their shirts tied down it is hard to label either a "fighter." Although, Zetterberg did serve in the Swedish army for a few months and it looked like he had a pretty good uppercut technique and could have landed a few good ones if the refs had let him. But for what purpose after the ...
BryanM writes...

The Penguins will come back if...

Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
What a game! Just when it looked like Detroit was going to run away to a 3-0 series lead, Brooks Orpik lands a big hit on Darren Helm and the Penguins begin a relentless third period attack (with the help of six skaters on the ice for almost 30 seconds and a clueless Red Wings bench). With the Penguins now on the board in the series, here are five things they need to do...
Momadukes writes...

Buffalo

Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
This is the first time I am posting a blog so forgive me if I offend anyone. First and foremost I am a rabid Sabres fan. I get anxious every summer waiting for Hockey to start again. I have been to HSBC to watch the the pre-season practices all the way to playoff games. Sadly those days are gone. Now the closest I can get is TV or WGR Radio online. BTW- WGR is the best...
I have a new blog that I'm waiting on because now is not the right time to publish it. So until that time arrives, I thought I'd fill the gap with a discussion on the Devils and retired numbers. Now nobody can debate the legitimacy of retiring Scott Stevens' #4. He's either the first or second best Devil of all time, and there is no debating that. Without his leadership...
BryanM writes...

Game 6 Aftermath

Posted Tuesday | Comments 0
Before the media has a chance to jump off the Red Wings bandwagon (again), I'll put in my two cents on Game 6. First of all, Detroit was asleep at the wheel in the first period. With the exception of Chris Osgood, the Wings really did look like the older, more exhausted team. The one positive they can take away from the first 20 minutes is that Pittsburgh did not score ...
Whether it be Pierre's and Milbury's red ties in game 5 and Milbury's red tie tonight. Or Pierre's and Olczyk's MULTIPLE assessments on the NUMEROUS times the Penguins should have been called for interference, or that the Red Wings should not have been called. Or them belaboring Malkin's cross check on Filppula when, a millisecond before, Kronwall planted [Fedotenko?]'s ...
I will be watching game 7 of tonight's Detroit vs. Pittsburgh game on NBC. Not CBC. Yes, it has taken me the entire season to get to this point. But I just can't hack it anymore. I love Ron MacLean. I LOVE Don Cherry; I mean, I don't always agree with him, but his segments are always entertaining and I appreciate his patriotism and his passion for hockey. He sa...
[b]Happy congratulations to Billy Guerin, Philippe Boucher, and the newly crowned Stanley Cup Champion Pittsburg Penguins!!![/b] I'm sincerely happy for Billy G. and Philippe Boucher, as they both spent several quality years here with the Dallas Stars. As a rookie with the New Jersey Devils in 1995, Guerin raised his first Cup at the age of 24. Tonight, 14 years later, ...
First things first, congratulations to captain Sidney Crosby and his Penguins for winning the 2009 Stanley Cup. Well done, guys, you put on quite a show. It was a hard fought series, right until the final seconds when goaltender Marc-Andre Fleury had to dive across the crease to rob Detroit captain Niklas Lidstrom of a sure goal. Wondering what Fleury was thinking when all...
Bah! I had a nice long blog full of coverage on tonight's game and more but it all went away when Internet Explorer unexpectedly quit on me. I should really start doing these on Word documents and they copy-paste them. Anyways, I'll try my best to replicate that previous effort. [b] The Flightless Birds fly high[/b] Congratulations to the Pittsburgh Penguins on the...
gkmkiller writes...

Congrats to the Pens

Posted Sunday | Comments 2
So they young Pens finally crested the proverbial mountain and overcame 2 - 0 and 3 - 2 series defecits to conquer the Wings and win the first (of what could be many) Stanley Cup of the Sidney Crosby era. As a Rangers fan I am not obligated to feel anything other than disgust and envy when a hated division rival succeeds where the Rangers have failed for the last 14 season...
Another NHL season is in the books. The Pittsburgh Peguins are the 150th Stanley Cup Champion since the trophy's creation in 1893, the Detroit Red Wings became the only franchise in the history of the NHL to lose more than one Game 7 at home in the Cup Final (1945 and 2009). The Blackhawks and Blues returned to the post-season, and the NHL saw its first all-California play...
With the 2009 NHL Draft now just days away, most fans are practically salivating with the anticipation of adding premium talent to their respective teams. Like most fans, I will be scouring the list of players that my team drafts looking for the next stars and assuming that each of our draft picks will ultimately help the NHL club achieve on-ice success. Before we go makin...
As the New York Islanders embark on a tough decision with the first pick in the draft, John Tavares will likely be heading to Long Island. The pressure on Garth Snow, the Islanders GM, will be great. With Snow being questioned about his qualifications to be a GM plus having control of a franchise whose future in Nassau County is up in the air. So the question is....do you ...
According to a report in the Wednesday edition of the Toronto Globe and Mail, the Leafs may have an interest in Rangers over-priced Defenseman Wade Redden and also Boston forward Peter Schaefer. The report mentions that the the Leafs have the cap room necessary to accomodate both players and also that the interest in Redden might mean they are close to dealing Tomas Kaberl...
jddjian000 writes...

Hossa? No way No how

Posted Sunday | Comments 0
I dont see any possible way the Red Wings can retain Hossa without loosing significant assets in the form of Hudler, Fillpula & Stuart and only have 20 names on the roster every night. I am one of these long time Wings Fans that is ready for significant change. I would like to see Draper and Holmstrom traded, as well as Maltby waived (cause no one would pay for him) an...
Three seasons ago, it seemed pretty obvious where the best teams in the NHL lived...the Western Conference. The Ducks had just beaten the Senators in 5 games to win their first cup. They appeared to be a team that could easily repeat. They were physical...mean even...and could score goals to boot. While the Ducks did not repeat as champions, the Detroit Red Wings fin...
KPE18 writes...

NEW Offseason Game Plan

Posted Thursday | Comments 0
With Brashear and Gaborik signed to contracts, as it stands today, the Rangers have about $13.7 million of cap space to work with. This is what should happen with that money if we want to be Stanley Cup contenders. -Sign the RFA's. This is a reasonable amount for each RFA. Zherdev-2 years $3.25million per yr. Higgins-4 years $2 million per yr. Korpikoski-1 year $...
Its safe to say that the Nashville Predators will once again be scrounging for goals, this for the 2nd straight season. While the obvious next move for GM David Poile would obviously be a top 6 forward, its very clear that a move like such will not happen in the next few months. See, there I could have easily said that last sentence without "in the next few months". Mor...
Alright guys, bear with me here, this is my first time blogging so I may make some mistakes here and there, but I figured, hey, why not start out with a topic that I love? That topic being the Nashville Predators. Now, moving on to the specific topic itself: In my honest opinion, I believe the Predators have positioned themselves quite well so far this offseason. ...
First off, let me just say that Eklund's rumours have some truth to them. The truth lies in that, assuming his sources are good, a certain team has interest in a certain player and has contacted the player or the team owning the rights to that player. Whether talks or counter-offers are part of it will up the rating on the "E system". For example, when the rumours of Ovech...
johnsApred writes...

All-Predators Roster

Posted Tuesday | Comments 0
With the coming and passing of the prospect development camp, Pred Nation has buzzed and talked highly of the caliber of the prospects present this summer. This prospect class has been deemed as a group full of talent and potential and seemed to impress everyone from the coaches to the fans. Through the work of Paul and Brandon, even those who were not able to make an ap...
1. Washington-Ovie will want revenge. Team still intact but even better. 2. Philadelphia- With the addition of Pronger on the blue line, they will be tough to beat. 3. Boston- Recchi wants one last chance although the Bs need to sign Kessel and Yelle. 4. Pittsburgh- Pronger will haunt but not enough to quiet Sid, Malkin, and the defending champs. 5. NY Rangers- Goodbye...
KUNITZ. CROSBY. GUERIN FEDOTENKO. MALKIN. ADAMS (TALBOT when he returns) COOKE. STAAL. KENNEDY DUPUIS. RUPP. GODARD (ADAMS when TALBOT returns) GONCHAR. ORPIK LETANG. MCKEE GOLIGOSKI. EATON FLEURY. CURRY (MCKEE-ORPIK) would be a replacement line for (GILL. SCUDERI)
The hockey world is pretty much at a stand still right now so I decided to take a page out of Eric Engels' book and pose 5 questions for the Preds this upcoming season, all of which you are more than welcome to answer. 1. Will the Predators add a top 6 forward between now and the 2010 trade deadline? 2. How long do either David Poile or Barry Trotz last, in months (f...
HabAve37 writes...

A Sense of Optimism...

Posted Saturday | Comments 0
So maybe the Montreal Canadiens will not win the Stanley Cup this year, and maybe not for a while, but it certainly has been an interesting off-season. The more I look at this new, revamped roster, the more I try to forget the anger I felt for Bob on June 30, when I found out that he had mortgaged our future to acquire an overpaid, small centerman to replace the beloved Sa...
We've reached the end of a decade, so it's time to consider who was the best championship team over the last ten years.  But since it's also the start of the 21st century, we can go one step further.  So, over the next few posts, we will be working our way towards naming the Team of the Millennium.  We've had 9 Stanley Cup champions, thanks to the 2005 lockout, but only...
In the last post, we covered round 1 of the Champions from the past decade. Here were the results: 2001 Colorado Avalanche defeated the 2009 Pittsburgh Penguins 2002 Detroit Redwings defeated the 2008 Detroit Redwings 2007 Anaheim Ducks defeated the 2003 NJ Devils 2006 Carolina Hurricanes defeated the 2004 Tampa Bay Lightning [b]Round 2:[/b] [u]2001 Colorado...
Let's get right to the argument, shall we? There are two major points: [b]The signing makes good short-term sense.[/b] I don't love Jason Williams, and I wasn't particularly sad to see him go. But, he isn't a bad player by any stretch of the imagination. Last year he put up 29 points in 39 games with Columbus (after a rough patch with Atlanta) and the year before tha...
The more that I surf the web looking for the newest in Advanced Statistics in Hockey, the more I realize how much I really like the Puck Prospectus website and the Behind the Net website. The people at those sites are creative and just plain brilliant. The latest and greatest was offered up by Robert Vollman on Puck Prospectus and it is called Goals Versus Salary (GVS). In...
predram writes...

THN picks Preds to finish...

Posted Saturday | Comments 0
10th in the West. Is this what you expected? Better than you expected? or worse? For me, its what I expected. This team has a solid first line, a strong 1st d-man pairing and good goalie, who will try to erase the Predator curse of goaltenders in their 1st season of full time duty acting as sitting ducks on ice. This team has depth on defense in terms of players who ...
thejerseydevil writes...

2009-10 Predictions

Posted Saturday | Comments 0
As the lazy days of summer begin to fade away, NHL teams will soon begin to reconvene for training camp. So, in that spirit, I'd like to throw my 2009-10 final standings predictions out there. Nothing detailed, just straight to the point. I'll get back into the swing of heavy analysis next time around when I take a closer look at the Atlantic Division. Of course, predictio...
hplayer11389 writes...

2009-2010 Predictions

Posted Friday | Comments 0
Eastern Conference: 1. Washington Capitals 2. Pittsburgh Penguins 3. Boston Bruins 4. Philadelphia Flyers 5. New Jersey Devils 6. Montreal Canadians 7. Buffalo Sabres 8. Tampa Bay Lightning --------------------------------- 9. Ottawa Senators 10. Carolina Hurricanes 11. Toronto Maple Leafs 12. New York Rangers 13. Florida Panthers 14. New York Islanders 1...
September is right around the corner, so it's time to take a look at what the Atlantic Division will look like for the 2009-10 season. This is written with the knowledge that rosters are not completely set, and rumors are still abound about a few of these teams...but comments are made based on how the teams stand right now. Even though nobody paid attention to it last time...
Here are my Eastern Conferene predictions: 1. Boston 2. Washington 3. Rangers 4. Pittsburgh 5. Carolina 6. Philadelphia 7. Buffalo 8. Toronto --------------------- 9. Montreal 10. New Jersey 11. Florida 12. Atlanta 13. Tampa Bay 14. Islanders 15. Ottawa Boston: Solid team. I expect a repeat performance from last year. They led the league i...
Okay so i'm not even gonna try to do Eastern Conference because i don't see a lot of their games, and i notice that when people try to do both conferences on this site they really mess up the one they don't watch, anyways im gonna try and give some reasons for my picks but please comment and tell me what you think 1. Calgary Flames 2. Chicago Blackhawks 3. St. Louis B...
Phigment writes...

2009-10 Predictions

Posted Tuesday | Comments 0
East 1. Pittsburgh 2. Boston 3. Carolina 4. Philadelphia 5. Washington 6.Montreal 7. New Jersey 8. Tampa Bay Out: Florida, Buffalo, Toronto, NY Rangers, Ottawa, Atlanta, NY Islanders West 1. Detroit 2. Vancouver 3. Anaheim 4. Chicago 5. Dallas 6. San Jose 7. Columbus 8. Calgary Out: Nashville, St. Louis, Edmonton, LA, Minnesota, Phoenix, Colora...
ed16 writes...

Predictions/Expectations

Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
[b] Predictions/Expectations [/b] Hey everyone, I thought for my first post it would be right to start off with my introduction and prediction. Hi… My name is Ed I’m college student in North Carolina and a huge Rangers fan. I grew up in New York and recently moved to North Carolina. I try to watch and go to as many gam...
A-Mar writes...

Quick NHL Season Players Preview

Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
Anaheim -MVP: Ryan Getzlaf -Key New Face: Saku Koivu -Sleeper: Andrew Ebbett -Super Sleeper: Luca Sbisa Atlanta -MVP: Ilya Kovalchuk -Key New Face: Nik Antropov -Sleeper: Anssi Salmela -Super Sleeper: Jason Krog Boston -MVP: Zdeno Chara -Key New Face: Marco Sturm (back from injury) -Sleeper: Matt Hunwick -Super Sleeper: Vladimir Sobotka Buf...
A-Mar writes...

Kessel and the Leafs

Posted Tuesday | Comments 0
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...
Daniel Alfredsson is the longest serving of all active Captains in the NHL. I can't imagine an Alfie-less Sens. I've watched him win the Calder Trophy (for rookie of the year) when he still wore that JOFA helmet. I was there when he took over for Yashin. I was there when he got his hair cut. And I was there when he scored the Overtime goal to send Ottawa to the Stanley Cup...
predram writes...

Where will the Kesselian one go?

Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
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 ...
With some transactions since my last post, and since a bunch of the predictions were a combination of bias and an experiment to see comments ... I have decided to redo that blog in a shorter format with basic predictions for the opening night roster, and some point predictions for that roster... enjoy! Sorry in advance for the format, I tried my best to keep it simple! ...
Good game from Nashville. Preds come back from a 2 goal deficit and score the final 3. Sullivan left the game in the 1st. Later it was released it was a groin injury and was held out as a precaution. Just yesterday Sully mentioned "his groin" on his twitter account: "ice bags all day today on the groins". Enough of the groin talk lets get to the game. [b]Over...
apsunick writes...

Kessel Details

Posted Sunday | Comments 0
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.
Each and every year, I decide it is humorous to put myself on the line here (and at the wrath of every single individual), and put forth my predictions for the final standings. While I am only a blogger, I like to think of myself as somewhat of a smart hockey-mind, and I understand that I will be ripped apart by fans of all backgrounds who feel that I betrayed them by not...
Dumont gets the goal and everybody gets ready to start singing "I like it", then huh. What is that? A new goal song in Nashville. From the few folks around me they didn't seem to like the change. Tradition is tough to alter. We will see if this follows through to the regular season. After the Canes win here are my thoughts on a couple players. JP Dumont - Good g...
Here are ten predictions for the 2009-10 season. I asked "Big Country" Shawn Lavigne of Hockey This Morning on XM 204, and here are his picks, along with mine: 1 - Aside from Wayne Gretzky, the first head coach to be fired this season: Shawn Lavigne - Lindy Ruff Me - Peter DeBoer It's not that Deboer is necessarily doing anything wrong. He got the Panthers within...
You won’t find much about hockey in this blog but rather some words of wisdom that may save you the pain we have endured over the last 24 hours. I hope you all are as lucky as I am to have found a special someone who not only humors your passions in life but truly shares in them as well. Much to my surprise, my bride of more than 10 years suggested that we take a much...
Skipping the pleasantries: [b]Eastern Conference[/b] 1. Boston 2. Philadelphia 3. Washington 4. Pittsburgh 5. Carolina 6. New Jersey 7. Montreal 8. NY Rangers 9. Tampa Bay 10. Toronto 11. Buffalo 12. Ottawa 13. Florida 14. Atlanta 15. NY Islanders [b] Western Conference[/b] 1. San Jose 2. Detroit 3. Calgary 4. Vancouver 5. Chicago 6. Anahe...
TJD92295 writes...

NHL 09-10 Predictions

Posted Thursday | Comments 0
EAST 1. Washington 2. Pittsburgh 3. Boston 4. Philadelphia 5. Carolina 6. New Jersey 7. NY Rangers 8. Ottawa 9. Montreal 10. Florida 11. Buffalo 12. Toronto 13. Tampa Bay 14. Atlanta 15. NY Islanders WEST 1. Detroit 2. San Jose 3. Vancouver 4. Chicago 5. Anaheim 6. Calgary 7. Minnesota 8. St. Louis 9. Dallas 10. Columbus 11. Edmonton 12. N...
landsharkhockey writes...

Warroom Predictions

Posted Friday | Comments 0
I was on the Warroom on XM 204 yesterday to chat with them about NHL predictions for the upcoming season. 3 simple questions were asked. Here are their picks, along with mine: 1.  Which team will win the 2009-10 Stanley Cup? 2.  Which player will win the 2009-10 Hart Trophy? 3.  Give us one wacky and/or out-on-a limb prediction. Peter Berce - Sharks, Joe Thorn...
The Predators did something they don't do very often. Beat the Dallas Stars in Dallas. Two very important points for the Predators. This win though came at a price. The Preds lost JP Dumont to an injury in the second period when he was hit hard into the boards on a 2 on 1. It looked like a concussion, but no official word yet from the Predators. The Preds can't affor...
I have been lucky enough to live in the Detroit area since I was 5. Well I don't know how lucky I really am given the economy of the city the last 5 years but one thing is for sure, it has been great being a Red Wing fan. Growing up there was definitely some down times. I remember my father getting calls from Mike Illitch himself back in the 80's practically begg...
With the Predators 3 to 2 win, they now have won their first two games of the season. The top line of Arnott/Sullivan/Hornqvist at times dominated the play. Hornqvist digging the puck out of the corners and getting in front of the net, Sully's vision and passing, Arnott with the bomb. Tremendous play by that line. Notables from the game: Hornqvist (A-) - Really ...
The Sabres behind Ryan Miller's 25 saves shutdown the Preds 1 to 0. Rinne on the other end made 41 out of 42 saves, but gave up his only goal with a little over 3 minutes remaining in the 3rd on a rebound goal by Grier. Notabales from the game: No Offense (D) - Every line really didn't produce many scoring chances. Just overall a bad night offensively. Erat with ...
The Preds decided not to show up and the Oilers took it to them scoring 6 goals, en route to a 6 to 1 win. This game spoiled Colin Wilson's debut for the Preds, who finished with a minus 1 with 1 SOG. Again, we still haven't seen a goal scored in regulation/OT from any other line than the top line. Notables: Klein/Hammer (F) - This pair has struggled. They where...
andydrmm writes...

Wonderous Offense

Posted Tuesday | Comments 0
It's finally happened. The Sabres have scored more than the Buffalo Bills in a single 60 minute game. The scary thing is, the Sabres are still playing. Unfortunately, I was unable to actually sit down and watch the Sabres play up until tonight. Aren't weddings wonderful? I saw bits and pieces of the Coyotes game. Other than that, I haven't been able to see a game. T...
apsunick writes...

Stars Blast Preds 6 to 0

Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
Deja Vu for the Preds. This is the second straight game giving up 6 goals. They have now been outscored 13 to 1 in the last 3 games. So far this season only the top line has a point. The Preds have now given up 8 goals in the last two first periods. Game Notables: Predators Team / Coaching Staff (F) - No longer can I single any player or coach out. This whole ...
predram writes...

Biggest game of the year #1

Posted Thursday | Comments 1
I'll try my best not to hype up tonight's game between the Preds and Hawks. However, it does hold rather large importance for the Preds. Its their first game against a divisional opponent in the increasingly competitive Central Division. The team is also coming off two straight shellackings at the hands of the Oilers and Stars, respectively, while having lost 3 straig...
The Preds continue to struggle scoring losing 3 to 1 in Nashville to the Blackhawks. The Preds only could muster 2 shots in the third period and a total of 13 for the game. On the other side they gave up 30 shots. This team is just simply struggling and going down fast. I kept on hearing this team is getting scoring chances, they are, but the problem is this team doesn...
The Preds finally scored 2 goals again, but it wasn't enough as Ovechkin had two goals, including the shootout winner. Compared to previous games, this was a much better effort against a great team. In the first period, the Preds missed two breakways by Ward and Weber on the PK. They got good scoring chances and did a good job of only allowing 2 goals to this offensiv...
Good road game by the Predators. Got timely scoring and good goal tending (except for that 2 minute blip in the 2nd period). Heck the Preds even got another powerplay goal and a shorty. The Preds finished this 5 game road trip with a 2-2-1 record. Game Notables: Smithson (A+) - When your fourth line grinder gets the game winning, short handed goal you deserve an ...
apsunick writes...

Rinne Blanks Blackhawks 2 to 0

Posted Thursday | Comments 0
The Predators had a really good team game with Erat (scratched) and Arnott (injured) not playing. Solid goaltending by Rinne stopping all 22 shots he faced. He virtually gave zero rebounds. He was a human vacuum. The Preds defensively were very sound. Good job of back checking by the forwards and good job by the dman to shut down Kane. Especially Weber who laid the...
The Predators played another really good defensive game. They blocked many of the Stars shots and out shot the Stars 33 to 29. The forwards did a good job of back checking to limit second chances by the Stars. On offense the Preds finally got another goal from Steve Sullivan and P. Hornqvist. The Preds offense had many chances and easily could have had 1 or 2 more goa...
Welcome back everyone!! Another beautiful night here in Ottawa! The Habs are coming off a big win over Phoenix on Thursday and will face the Preds who have been on the rise of late. This should prove to be a good game! Game Notes: Game Time: 8:00 (Est) National TV: RDS (French) Price will make the start for the Habs. Spacek will be a game time decision after s...
The Preds played another solid game against the Sharks and this time they were rewarded with two points. The first period for the Preds had 14 shots, by 14 different players. A very odd stat. Really good game by the top line and Leggy's line. The Preds were 2 for 4 on the powerplay. Without the PP scoring I have a feeling this would have gone to the Sharks. O...
The Nashville Predators continue to play their best hockey of the season as they beat the New Jersey Devils 3 to 2 in a shootout. Santorelli and Erat scored in the shootout to lift the Predators to victory. The Preds 2 goals in regulation came from Jason Arnott. Including 1 on the powerplay. The Preds finished the night 1 for 2 on the PP. While the PK stopped both...
The Preds are playing good hockey and not even some bad breaks could knock this team off of its winning ways. The Preds topped the Blue Jackets 4 to 3 in a SO. The first goal by the Blue Jackets was initially ruled no goal by the on ice official. After review the reversed the call. I have no clue how Toronto could have overturned the call. There is supposed to be ...
Here are Predator players who are in the top 50 in the league for a specific category. Weber leads the way. This is through Nov 22. J. Smithson Tied 1st - 2 SH Goals P. Hornqvist Tied 14th - 73 SOG R. Suter Tied 18th - 24:20 TOI/G S. Weber Tied 28th - 23:46 TOI/G S. Weber Tied 5th - 5 Goals by Defenseman S. Weber 23rd - 12 Points by Defenseman S. W...
Newman writes...

Flames Take Two

Posted Sunday | Comments 0
The Flames went into two arenas that have been quite unfriendly in the past and walked away with 4 points. First, the Flames shut out the two time defending Western Conference Champion Red Wings in Joe Louis Arena, which is no easy task. For the first time since 1977, the Red Wings were shutout twice in a row at home; the Flames being the back half of that equation. The fo...
Newman writes...

Some Things Never Last

Posted Friday | Comments 0
I thought I would take a look at the Detroit Red Wings, and how some things never last... Dynasties in sports are something to behold. The Yankees, the Bulls, and the Patriots all have held this title in their respective sports. The Detroit Red Wings have held this title in the NHL for the better part of the last 13 years. However, the Red Wings are a team on the decl...
KevinJames writes...

Dirty Sens Blank Sabres

Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
[img]http://d.yimg.com/a/p/rids/20091217/i/r822088240.jpg[/img] Buffalo (20-9-2) vs. Ottawa (16-12-4) Since the 2005-2006 season, the Senators have dominated the Sabres, winning 21 of 31. On Wednesday night, it remained that way. After the first period the Senators were only up 1-0. I say ONLY because of Ryan Miller. The game could have easily been out of reach f...
In a rare afternoon affair at the Saddledome, the Flames failed to gain any momentum on their current home stand by falling to the Nashville Predators 5 to 3. Losers of 4 of their last 5, the Flames, seemingly, were still asleep for the first 15 minutes of this game. Looking sluggish and disjointed from the drop of the puck, save Rene Bourque, the Flames were in a hole dow...
I had the opportunity to be at the Garage for last night's game and while I enjoyed what went on in the stands, I did not enjoy what I saw on the ice. I wouldn't say that the Canucks dominated but they were persistent. They did everything the Preds should have done. They got traffic in front of Dan Ellis, they put shots on net whenever they could and they took pucks har...
KevinJames writes...

Sens Use Shootout For Win

Posted Saturday | Comments 0
Ottawa (18-15-4) at Buffalo (22-11-3) The last meeting between these two teams resulted in a 5-3 win for Ottawa back on November 21st. However, several Sabres were suffering from food poisoning that night. A few nights later, when the Minnesota Wild came to visit, their players found that their equipment was set on fire. The Senators have won six straight games against ...
At 28-16-3, the Nashville Predators have held in the playoff hunt much longer than a lot of analysts or "analysts" predicted at the start of the season. There were even some who predicted the Preds to finish as low as 14th in the Western Conference. I predicted the team to finish 10th. My reasoning was that other teams made additions and got better while the Preds sat back...
Forgive me ahead of time if I deviate from the Rangers’ theme a little on this but since we have discussed the merits of buying out the remaining term of Wade Redden’s contract ad nausea in the various threads, I’ve given some thought to the general principle of buyouts. As I am sure most of us know, the ability to buyout a player’s contract was negotiated into...
gkmkiller writes...

Decision Time

Posted Sunday | Comments 0
Nice win for the Blue Shirts tonight! The King was awesome, Gabby got a goal and the Rangers played a pretty solid game on home ice. But guess what, I don’t buy it. It was only 1 of 82 games that will be played this season; the Rangers have struggled for much of the season and have little reason to believe things are going to change drastically despite tonight’s succes...
nyr30 writes...

gaboriks injury

Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
yesterday in practice marian gaborik was cut on the leg by the skate of henrik lundqvist and recieved several stitches.tonight at msg the broadway blueshirts will face the nashville predators. the rangers are again stuggling in the offense and without gaborik[six goals in his last five games] will be struggling even more. gaborik is questionable but might not play and miss...
An Islander forward last night, making his NHL debut, had an immediate impact with each shift he took in the Islanders first win in the past 8 games. Could it have been a case of first-time nerves and adrenaline working it's magic to help the youngster provide the spark this team needs? Possibly. But what we might also be seeing is the toughness and grit this team has lack...
The Flames couldn’t have been expected to make blockbusters necessarily, having already made the two biggest trades of the year a month earlier. However, it was fair to at least expect some additional tinkering by Darryl Sutter. He had a large surplus of forwards (albeit, mostly mediocre ones). The team itself was facing a very tight playoff race, with a sense of urgency...
predram writes...

Preds Deadline Review

Posted Friday | Comments 0
First blog in a long while. Lets get to it. Well the trade deadline has come and gone and its time to look back at what changed with the Preds roster. [b]EDM trades: D Denis Grebeshkov NSH trades: 2010 2nd round pick Thoughts: [/b]I had a mixed reaction. When I got a text from a colleague and friend from a news source informing of this trade, I said to myself ...
I know that historical analogies, especially in the sporting universe, are a risky proposition. But Todd McLelland’s second season in San Jose reminds me a lot of Mike Babcock’s second season in Detroit. Babcock, as you’ll recall, was brought in at the beginning of the lockout to replace Dave Lewis and bring the tough, dominating personality that the Red Wings had...
Wednesday night...4/14/2010...the alarm sounds at 7pm. The playoffs started for the Penguins and the team woke up from what seems like a season long slumber. Well...for about 10 minutes. That's about how long they "got to their game" on Wednesday. Long enough to bang some bodies...draw a penalty...and score an early power play goal to go up 1-0 in game one. ...
schaef617 writes...

My Second Round Picks

Posted Friday | Comments 0
Here are my picks for the second round, which kicks off tonight in Pittsburgh. The fourth seeded Penguins will host eight seeded Montreal. Boston, the six seed, and Philadelphia, the seven seed, will meet in the other Eastern Conference duel. Out west, the top seeded Sharks will host the Detroit Red Wings, and the Canucks (3 seed) will travel to Chicago to face the Blackha...
I know this is a little late since the second round has already started...but here is what I think could happen in the second round of the playoffs. Western Conference --------------------------- (1) San Jose vs. (5) Detroit [b]Prediction: San Jose in 6[/b] [i]Synopsis[/i]: Even knowing that San Jose is up 2-0 in the series, I unfortunately think that Detroit'...
Folks, The Habs Brass has impressed me yet again! Montreal GM Pierre Gauthier saw an opportunity to move up in the draft and jumped on it! The Habs traded 1st(27) and 2nd rounds picks to Phoenix for 1st(22) and 4th round picks, all 2010. According to various sources, the player Vancouver was waiting for was in fact, Jarred Tinordi. I can only assume that Gauthier c...
wingsuck writes...

Poile pulls the trigger...

Posted Wednesday | Comments 12
I will have to admit, in the past I have been very critical of David Poile and the Predators have not taking a high-end risk. (Yes, the Forsberg trade was a high-end risk.) I think a move like the acquisition of Sergei Kostitsyn from Montreal for a goaltender you had no interest in keeping as a UFA and a 4th, or at most a 3rd line center, who is a RFA and future considerat...
David, David, David... (tist, tist, tist...) Jonas Andersson, Jonas (FREAKIN') Andersson... Okay, I'm thoroughly confused. First, you traded Hamhuis (UFA) for Ryan Parent. Basically, 2nd pair defenseman with experience for a 3rd pair defenseman with less experience. Second, you traded Arnott to NJ for a prospect and a 2nd round pick next year. I'm good with that, you...
wingsuck writes...

Lombardi, Prospect Camp, etc...

Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
First, my apologies to David Poile and all of those in Predland that were offended by my last entry/rant. Now that my blood pressure has returned to acceptable levels and my wife and I are speaking to each other again, let us get back to the point at hand. I give David Poile an "A" for the Matthew Lombardi signing, 10.5 over 3 years, not bad for this caliber of player. ...
If you're a Sabres fan, you probably find yourself predicting the outcomes of games before they start. Well, now you have the chance to submit your predictions and win prizes based on how well you do. Sabreshockeycentral.com has introduced a Buffalo Sabres prediction challenge that will test the knowledge of many fans. All you have to do is predict the winner and sco...
Hello ranger fans and well hockey fans in general. My name is Ian and when it comes to hockey especially the rangers i have a lot to say. Lets get started with talking about the insanely ridiculous contract of Wade Redden. As if giving him 6.5 million dollars a year isn't bad enough, (when watching him 82+ games a year he is clearly worth 1.5-2.4 million area), Sather...
Total Games Played and Player Quality Considered - All results are open to debate Anaheim Ducks 2003 Draft Rd 1. Ryan Getzlaf Rd 1. Corey Perry Rd 6. Drew Miller Rd 8. Shane O'Brian Atlanta Thrashers 2000 Draft Rd 1. Dany Heatley Rd 6. Darcy Hordichuck Boston Bruins 2006 Draft Rd 1. Phil Kessel Rd 2. Milan Lucic Rd 3. Brad Marchand Buffalo Sabres ...
This afternoon it was reported that the Detroit Red Wings signed veteran defenseman Ruslan Salei. Ken Holland has been saying he'd look at a veteran for the third defensive pairing, and opted for Salei. Essentially, Salei is a very similar player to Andreas Lilja. He provides little offense - though certainly a bit more than Lilja would - and is a steady player in his own ...
gilbertlowrey writes...

Caps are OK!!

Posted Thursday | Comments 0
Let me start this by saying, I am not a Capitals fan. I am also not a Red Wings fan. I am on the opposite side of the hockey world as a Penguins fan. I do also have respect for great hockey teams and a greater respect for great organizations, so while I don't like the Wings and Caps, I do respect them. The Red Wings have been a dominant team for years and will continue tha...
Hi all, I am new to the blogging world so bear with me! I have been a huge leafs fan all my life, but that will not cloud my judgement on how I think they will perform this year (well ok maybe a little bit ;). Obviously I would love it,as would any other Leaf fan, for them to end the dreadful stanley cup drought, or even their post-lockout playoff drought, but lets be ho...
habsteen26 writes...

NHL STANDINGS (WHAT I THINK)

Posted Saturday | Comments 0
Here is a little thing I like to do annually, but I began to post this on HB last year. Though they we're weird...perhaps a tad crazy, most came true. So I decided to post them again. Here's what I think the 2010-2011 NHL Regular Season will look like,Some of them are pretty obvious, some of them have you rubbing your chin, and some just make you angry for some reason. Enj...
habsteen26 writes...

NHL AWARDS (WHAT I THINK)

Posted Tuesday | Comments 0
First Edition, if there is success, it will be brought back. Enjoy Stanley Cup: Vancouver Canucks Reason: It looks like the 'Nucks are shaping up to be the new Hawks, with the stacked roster, all the way to the cap issues.. Presidents: Washington Capitals Reason: 1 abbreviation: A.O Maurice Richard: Alexander Ovechkin Reason: Look for A.O to bounce back from ...
Hello This is the Moose Review and I’m Buddy Brier Now that it’s September, it’s about time we take a look at the upcoming 2010/11 NHL season We’ll start with my predictions of the teams that make the playoffs for the end of the upcoming season. In the west, I’m predicting the standings will look like this: 1st - Detroit 2nd - Vancouver 3rd - Sa...
Well folks, its 34 days till the season starts, but training camp is right around the corner! Finally! Let’s get back to some hockey! Living in Ottawa gives me a unique opportunity to watch 3 brands of hockey. Besides the Sens, I can also take in either an Ottawa 67’s (OHL) or Gautineau Olympiques (QMJHL) game. This year I will be doing both so I can catch Jarred...
KevinJames writes...

Sabres Prediction Contest!

Posted Tuesday | Comments 0
If you’re a Sabres fan, you probably find yourself predicting the outcomes of games before they start. Well, now you have the chance to submit your predictions and win prizes based on how well you do. Sabreshockeycentral.com has introduced a Buffalo Sabres prediction challenge that will test the knowledge of many fans. All you have to do is predict the winner and s...
This is how I think the Kings season will go. 1. Martin Jones, Brandon Kozun, Jordan Weal, and Brayden Schenn all make the Monarchs, earning the AHL affiliate a new nickname: "The 2009-10 WHL All-Stars!" 2. Jones DAZZLES in Manchester, earning himself a call-up. 3. Ersberg is traded for Niklas Hagman, who posts average numbers on a struggling Calgary team. H...
Cecil09 writes...

Top 50 Players in the NHL

Posted Friday | Comments 0
Well its getting close to training camp time in the NHL, and that means it time for some preaseason predictions and rankings. I'll be putting my conference and award predictions up soon and here is my ranking of the top 60 players in the NHL. 1. Sidney Crosby - No brainer here. 2. Alex Ovechkin - Doesn't quite have the championship pedigree to reach Crosby, defenseman ...
Eastern Conference 1. Washington Capitals - Similar situation as last year, scary-good offense, young and developing defensemen, questonable goaltending. Look for 1 or both of young blueliners John Carlson and Karl Alzner to step up and help carry the load on defense. 2. Boston Bruins - Last season they couldn't score, they addressed that in the offseason with the trade...
The preseason has already started, and we are two weeks away from the Sabres regular season opener. If you’re a Sabres fan, or just an NHL fan, you probably find yourself predicting the outcomes of games before they start. Well, now you have the chance to submit your predictions and win prizes based on how well you do. Sabreshockeycentral.com has introduced a Buffa...
We are nearing the end of training camp, which means the season is right around the corner. Here are my impressions on some of the youngsters and newbies at camp. Taylor Beck: Good skater, but looked really nervous. On the power play he really didn't seem to know where to go. He sort of floated around. He also couldn't get shots off fast enough. Not ready for the ...
[b] Primary Staff:[/b] Ken Holland (GM), Mike Babcock (Head Coach) [b]2009-10 Stats:[/b] 82GP 44W 24L 14OTL 102PTS [b]Place:[/b] 2nd Central, 5th West, 7th NHL [b]Top Scorer:[/b] Pavel Datsyuk – 80GP 27G 43A 70P [b]Captains:[/b] Niklas Lidstrom (C), Pavel Datsyuk (A), Henrik Zetterberg (A) [b]OFF-SEASON MOVES[/b] [b]OUT:[/b] Brett Lebda (Signed with Toronto)...
The preseason wouldn't be complete without a healthy dose of meaningless predictions. As always, I'm here to serve. Feel free to laugh and hold me accountable if nothing I say comes to pass. EASTERN CONFERENCE Atlantic: Pittsburgh Penguins The Devils and Flyers will certainly contend, but there's no touching what Pittsburgh has assembled this season. I don't ...
jtommyt writes...

West Predictions

Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
The predictions I'm seeing for this year just don't make any sense to me, so I'm going to give this a shot on my own... We'll see how it shakes out at the end of the year. 1. Vancouver Canucks It pains me to say this, but when I look at the rosters in the West, Vancouver just seems to be the strongest bottom to top this year. The weakness with this team is defense, b...
The Anaheim Ducks managed to goon it up in the Red Wings home opener to the point that they goaded the four-time Lady Byng winner Pavel Datsyuk into a fighting major. The result boded well for the Wings, but you can't read too much into that. They looked sloppy at times and committed some bad turnovers. Jimmy Howard got a shutout as much by the luck of how the calls went...
The Red Wings pulled another one out tonight, almost in spite of themselves. Taking three penalties late in the third period proved that the Wings have a decent penalty kill, but it's best not to try to give games away. Detroit's boys escaped with another two points against a Central Division rival that may prove critical down the stretch, but it wasn't pretty. The Re...
In Detroit's recent trio of games against Colorado, Dallas, and Phoenix, their performance has ranged from a step behind all the way to highly competitive. The bottom line is inconsistency. Some of that is still early-season rust being shaken off, compounded by yet another spate of injuries that have taken out Jonathan Ericsson, Brian Rafalski, and Johan Franzen. The...
icedog97 writes...

The Glass...

Posted Thursday | Comments 0
It may seem when things aren't going so well that I am more of a "glass is half empty" than a "glass is half full" kind of guy. Three games into this season...and after watching some mistake filled play...I was already calling for benching Malkin and Crosby...like that was really going to happen. I have a tendency, from years of playing sports..and really hating to l...
Friday proved to be just another frustrating night for the Buffalo Sabres and its fans. Ottawa defeated the Sabres 4-2 in front of the HSBC Arena crowd. Daniel Alfredsson continued his tear against the Buffalo Sabres, scoring three times and earning his 1,000 career point. Alfredsson came into the game with just one goal and four assists on the season, but had a hat ...
Going into tonight's game in Dallas the Preds are still unbeaten this season. I'll take 3-0-3 over 2-3-1, which is where the Flyers, Stanley Cup finalists last year currently sit after 6 games. The injury bug has been flying around and it's not a good thing, hopefully we can weather the storm and the dam doesn't burst. Now onto my favoraite subject, the Canadian press...
The Red Wings have come on strong in the last five games. They have actually played the puck possession game and dominated opponents. Their sluggish start to the season left me a little worried, but they have gelled, switched up lines to increase offense production, and played the solid defensive game that Detroit is known for. I am enthused to see the recent r...
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...
ty.dins writes...

Ageless Wonder

Posted Tuesday | Comments 1
In an era of hockey that epitomizes the youth movement, Detroit strays from the norm. Maybe its because of their lack of high draft picks, or first round picks at all, maybe its because of the style coach Mike Babcock preaches, or maybe their just getting all the right 30 something year olds. Either way, its working. Boasting a 14 man, 30 and over roster, 8 of which exceed...
Gunner Staal writes...

Penguins Game Thread

Posted Friday | Comments 2
As Penguins fans know we are now without a team blogger. We have been lucky to have two high quality writers for us in Brian Metzer and Tom Mast. I know that I get enjoyment from talking about the Penguins in this forum., both on game days and non game days. Lately there has been little to no Penguins talk because there have been no new posts. My goal until we get a Pe...
California dreamin’ or California nightmare? I’d say the latter was a more apt description of the result of the two game road trip. Two games, one point – simply put, it’s just not good enough. Despite late charges in both games, the Flames fell short in each game – stretching it to the shootout in Anaheim while falling in regulation in LA. They fall be...
A third period collapse by the Sharks leads them to a losing record for the 8th separate time this season, putting them back outside the playoff picture at 9th in the conference and 4th in the division. The game started with a fast pace, but not many quality chances, until Niclas Wallin of the Sharks fired a hard shot past Anders Lindback to make the game 1-0 Sharks aft...
Newman writes...

Flames options moving forward

Posted Thursday | Comments 7442
In light of the Flames facing off against Toronto tonight, the team they partnered off with to make last year's blockbuster deal, I thought it would be interesting to look at some of the Flames options moving forward. The Flames have issues. That’s clearly apparent. But fixing those issues -- therein lies the true work of art. How do you get yourself out from under...
“Do you struggle to save the puck? Are you having trouble stopping that little black piece of rubber from going in the net? Do you find yourself riding the pine more than you think you should? If so, we believe we have the answer for you. Come on over the Calgary where the Flames will show you what true hospitality is all about. Their under-achieving band of overpaid hoc...
The Flames are on a roll – sort of. Winners of their last two games, and four of their last five under the Dome, the Flames climbed to within six points of 8th spot in the western conference. Let’s just ignore the fact that the Flames have played more games than pretty well everyone else in the conference save the Ducks. Olli Jokinen has six goals in his last ni...
Check out my latest post over at The Hockey Writers as the Islanders head into the second half of the season riding a two-game winning streak and having gone 6-3-1 in their last ten! http://bit.ly/e73mBS -Rob McGowan Follow me on Twitter! http://twitter.com/IslesRM
Making predictions is a dangerous endeavor, as they very rarely pan out, and more often than not do little but make the writer look like a fool. But since it is the time of season for starting over, I'm taking the liberty of looking back on my mistakes and resolving to make them right as we start the new year. I'm dragging out my pre-season predictions to see which ones ...
wingsuck writes...

5th Place and Frustrated

Posted Friday | Comments 13
As our Preds turn the 1/2 pole and start the last half of the season, I can only sit here and think of what could be. As I write this, the Preds currently sit in 5th place in the Western Conference at 52 points, 7 points behind that team from eastern Michigan and 1 point behind the Coyotes for 4th. Should I be happy and content with where we are, especially with all the ...
Rob McGowan writes...

Nabokov Is Island Bound

Posted Saturday | Comments 3
Check out my latest post at The Hockey Writers as the Islanders have claimed Evgeni Nabokov off waivers for the remainder of the season! http://bit.ly/gUu5Tb -Rob McGowan Follow me on Twitter! http://twitter.com/IslesRM
I can't seem to vent enough about this and this isn't as a Red Wings fan. I think they'll be fine either way, and I'd be just as pissed as if this were the Caps, Avs or Tampa signing him only to lose to the Islanders. The Islanders claiming Nabokov off waivers was flat-out disrespectful to the guy. Say what you want about his stats in the playoffs, but he put in 9 yea...
With all that has gone on in Hockey Town this season there has been one player who has been a steady force in the Wings Line-up. The contribution is coming from the most unlikely of source... #44 Todd Bertuzzi. Ever since his incident with Colorado, Big Bert has not played like himself or the way he can. Maybe it was nagging injuries or the fit was just not right in Calgar...
jzadow writes...

Trade Deadline Splashes

Posted Tuesday | Comments 0
There have been some big moves already before the deadline -- maybe the most we've seen this early since the NHL lockout -- and certainly, more to come. It seems the most intriguing targets for most teams are the players that will be UFAs at season's end. And, this off-season boasts some of the biggest names around the league, however, some of them will most likely re-sign...
KevinJames writes...

Predators Stun Sabres

Posted Sunday | Comments 0
After a 1-0 loss to Carolina last week, the Sabres earned a pair of much needed victories against Atlanta and Nashville this weekend. A three-goal second period would be the only scoring for Buffalo, but it wasn’t enough. Despite falling behind 3-1, Nashville put together a late comeback and scored three unanswered goals to win the game, 4-3. The Sabres came out wi...
electric81 writes...

Frustration and Redemption

Posted Tuesday | Comments 0
Well, I certainly picked the wrong time to get mad at the Red Wings and turn the TV off in utter frustration. The Wings looked real sharp for the first 6-7 minutes, especially the Young Guns, in Helm, Abdelkader, and Miller. I've especially liked Miller's play of late. he's really battling hard to try earn that permanent spot and get out of that dreaded game-by-game rot...
I know I'm probably the only one thinking about this right now, being 3 weeks removed from the trade deadline, and another three weeks from the start of the playoffs, but it's just been something I've been kicking around lately, especially given the opinions of the some of the other folks I've heard lately. The Red Wings stood still at the trade deadline, as is their M....
electric81 writes...

Late Entry

Posted Friday | Comments 0
I know it’s a little late for a post-game wrap-up, but better late than never, I guess. The Red Wings dropped a heartbreaker to the Vancouver Canucks on Wednesday and I have a few theories… The first is a little convoluted. I think maybe the Red Wings have a little stage fright. I haven’t checked the numbers (and maybe I should), but I think the Wings have a lo...
electric81 writes...

Now THAT'S a Hockey Game!

Posted Tuesday | Comments 0
Let’s start by saying that I really enjoy watching the Red Wings and Blackhawks square up. It seems that there’s a different kind of energy between the two that is brought out only when these Original Six foes square off, even from Playoff hockey. I’m not saying it’s better, it’s [i]different[/i]. It’s one of a kind. Couple that with Nick Lidstrom’s signa...
Really? 10-3? The only thing I want to know is how many busted hockey sticks the custodial staff had to clean up from the visitors' dressing room at Scottrade Center... I hope it was a lot. It's time to get mad....
SSMcLeod writes...

Late to the party...

Posted Monday | Comments 0
I am quite aware that I am late to the party (or blogsphere I guess) when it comes to the regards of our much beloved (and maybe maligned) Oilers, but after a majority of a season expressing my views to friends and co-workers; someone finally stepped up and said share your views with people who care. You see I do not live in Edmonton, and as such I am a vast minority here...
electric81 writes...

Here We Go!

Posted Monday | Comments 0
The Detroit Red Wings finished up their regular season with a win over the Chicago Blackhawks at the United Center yesterday, solidifying their place as the number 3 seed. Next up will be the Phoenix Coyotes, a rematch of last year’s Western Conference Quarterfinals. The season series between these two clubs was split down the middle, with both teams grabbing two out o...
Well, after a last game collapse by Carolina, then Chicago, then Dallas the playoffs are set. Time for predictions! QUARTERFINALS WASHINGTON over NY Rangers in 6 BUFFALO over Philadelphia in 7 BOSTON over Montreal in 6 TAMPA BAY over Pittsburgh in 7 VANCOUVER over Chicago in 5 SAN JOSE over Los Angeles in 6 DETROIT over Phoenix in 7 ANAHEIM over Nashville in ...
electric81 writes...

Home is Finally "Home" Again

Posted Thursday | Comments 1
The Detroit Red Wings put to rest any doubts of their ability to perform in the post-season with a convincing win over the Phoenix Coyotes at Joe Louis Arena last night. It seems that the regular season woes are definitely behind not only the Red Wings players, but also the fans as well. The team has been booed off the ice on more than one occasion for the first time in ...
electric81 writes...

Bring Out the Brooms

Posted Thursday | Comments 0
The Detroit Red Wings completed their sweep of the Phoenix Coyotes last night in Glendale by a score of 6-3. A team on the ropes is always known to put their best foot forward, in desperation or otherwise, and the Coyotes did just that. Despite what has come to be a customary early lead by the Red Wings, Phoenix kept the score tied for the majority of the night, and ...
electric81 writes...

Deja Vu...

Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
It’s 2010 all over again as the Detroit Red Wings will meet the San Jose Sharks in the Western Conference Semifinals. The seeding remains the same too, as the Sharks secured home ice advantage once again for this series. The Red Wings have been resting up for over a week after sweeping the Phoenix Coyotes last Wednesday, and have been able to mend their bumps and bru...
Newman writes...

Second Round here we come!

Posted Thursday | Comments 0
The first round was epic. Can the second round provide the same drama? Come over to TSR for our second round thoughts and predictions. http://www.thesportsroundup.com/2011/04/round-two-2011-nhl-playoff-predictions.html Newman twitter.com/TSRNewman
electric81 writes...

The Jimmy Howard Show

Posted Saturday | Comments 0
The Detroit Red Wings dropped their first game of the Western Conference Semifinals to the San Jose Sharks in overtime by a score of 2-1. They also answered a few questions which have been flying around the last week. “Will 8 days of rest be too much for the Red Wings?” Not in the end. The Wings started slow, almost sloppy, and it took a penalty kill which allowe...
electric81 writes...

Loss of Composure

Posted Monday | Comments 0
The Detroit Red Wings head back to Joe Louis Arena down 2 games to the San Jose Sharks after losing 2-1 on Sunday afternoon. The loss was catalyzed by a complete lack of discipline by one of the least penalized teams in the regular season. The San Jose Sharks must have taken notice of Jimmy Howard’s reaction to Joe Pavelski’s snow shower in Game 1 and decided to tr...
Round 1 of the playoffs was pretty exciting. [i][b]Half of the eight series went to game 7[/b].[/i] Two teams faced elimination more than once to win their series. One team came back from 3-0 to force an OT in game 7. One team came back from 3-1 to win. By comparison...so far at least...[b][i]Round 2 is a snooze-fest.[/i][/b] [b]One series is done[/b]...t...
electric81 writes...

The Frustration Continues...

Posted Thursday | Comments 0
Not only is it frustrating, but it’s getting a little eerie too. Exactly like 2010, the Detroit Red Wings enter their two home games down to the San Jose Sharks, and they lose a third period lead and drop Game 3 in overtime. This, of course, after beating the Phoenix Coyotes in the Quarterfinals. And that’s not all…elsewhere in the League, the Boston Bruins take...
electric81 writes...

At Long last...A Win!

Posted Sunday | Comments 0
Friday night was a big night for the Detroit Red Wings, as they force a Game 5 by besting the San Jose Sharks by a score of 4-3. The bounces went their way. That's about it. The same reason the Sharks have won the previous three games. There isn't a whole lot to say besides rehashing the same factors over and over again. Good goaltending, fowards were better on the ...
electric81 writes...

Now, It's A Series!

Posted Monday | Comments 0
The Detroit Red Wings clawed their way back from a 2-goal deficit to force a Game 6 in Detroit with a 4-3 victory over the San Jose Sharks on Sunday night. Through a stellar third period, the Red Wings scored 3 unanswered goals and left the Sharks shocked and shaken. The Sharks dominated play from the opening face-off right up until the start of the third period. Go...
The Detroit Red Wings, at one point down 3-0 in its series against San Jose, have forced a decisive Game 7 with a 3-1 victory last night at Joe Louis Arena. Finally…the Red Wings were able to put together 60 full minutes of solid play from all ends of the ice. Jimmy Howard was solid in goaltending again, only letting in one fluky goal between the pads from Logan Cout...
I've been reading just about all the articles I can find regarding tonight's Game 7 between the Sharks and the Wings and I'm seeing a pattern here that makes me wonder. Most every article mentions how the odds are very long indeed against the Red Wings mounting this historic comeback and winning tonight. To me, that mountian has already been climbed. Detroit already...
The Detroit Red Wings ended their season with a 3-2 loss to the San Jose Sharks at HP Pavilion last night. It was a very exciting game to watch and both teams played well. The Sharks just played that much better. It seems that the best players from each team stepped up. Just look at the scoresheet…Setoguchi, Couture, Marleau, Zetterberg, Datsyuk. Several articles f...
The reports are becoming more and more numerous that the Atlanta Thrashers organization will be (or already has been) sold to True North Sports and Entertainment, which would move the team up to Winnipeg. There has been a lot of speculation as to how the Conferences will shuffle to make room for a team going from the Southeast Division in the Eastern conference to (ostens...
The last couple of days have been pretty eventful in the hockey world, and for a Red Wings fan, there’s some thought-provoking conversation fodder out there. So Brian Rafalski has announced his retirement with one year remaining on his contract, and the San Jose Sharks were defeated in 5 games by the Vancouver Canucks on a loopy, lucky, double-OT goal by Kevin Bieks...
wingfan23 writes...

Previewing Game 7

Posted Tuesday | Comments 0
Tommrow night or Tonight whatever the time is that your reading this wonderful blog Game 7 the final NHL game of the 2010-2011 season will happen. The Boston Bruins evened up the best of seven Stanley Cup series with a 5-2 victory over the Vancouver Canucks. My feelings on the game are this I believe Vancouver is lucky to still be playing right now due to the fact that 2...
On Monday Red Wings fans everywhere rejoiced as Nicklas Lidstrom announced he was coming back for a 20th season. With Rafalski already retiring this season Lidstrom retiring would have been a huge blow to the Red Wings. Now the question is what do the Wings do in Free Agency as I will discuss more next week my opinion is they sign Ed Jovonoski to 2 yr 8 million dollar de...
Wherever and however you are reading this today, thank you for making the Gray Area part of your day. This is the first ever blog written on the Hockey Buzz website. My goal is to reach more hockey fans around the world through this site. I think you will find I write very upfront about what I think about the teams around the league and grade my favorites the harshest of ...
Hello to all hockey fans that read this blog and any of my future blogs! I am a student of Hockey! I have been a hockey fan since the day I was conceived! (I know it sounds impossible but I came out in a Leafs sweater!) I play pick up, mostly because I was never good enough to actually play and couldn't afford to play when I was a child. I love the sport. I am new to ...
habsteen26 writes...

Ryan White + Re-Alignment

Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
[b]Ryan White Signs 1 year deal with Montreal[/b] First of all, congratulations to Ryan White for signing a one year deal with the Habs. Good signing for the Habs. White plays with a lot of poise and is one of maybe 2 players who will drop the gloves at any moment so they need a guy like him to play physical for them. He has a year to prove he belongs because there are ...
It’s really hot here today, like it is everywhere else in the country (I even heard that people in Alaska have actually unzipped their winter parkas). What better way to beat the heat than by talking a little hockey. I haven’t posted at all since the Cup was awarded and there have been a few key happenings since then on which I’d like to comment. So bear with me�...
electric81 writes...

The End of an Era

Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
Kris Draper’s announcement of retirement on Tuesday makes the third such landmark resignation by in the past 2 months. While I was a big fan of Chris Osgood and Brian Rafalski, there’s something about Drapes’s retirement that stands out. I’ve been trying to figure out exactly why… I loved watching Draper play. No offense to Drew Miller or Patrick Eaves, but...
Might as well be a month ahead of everyone's blogs saying whose gonna finish where and whatnot...not like anyone cares, but this is for my own sake and something official when a team makes the playoffs that no one even considered, i might be the one who told u so and have it officially out there, but anyways, i say 50% of what im about to write will come true! if not, i wi...
Looking for sleeper picks in your upcoming fantasy draft or interested in who to look for as possible up-and-comers next season? You've come to the right place. After hours of statistical analysis, I have compiled a top-10 list (featuring video evidence) of rookies/prospects who are likely to breakout next season as bonafide NHLers or even superstars. For the purposes...
BINGO! writes...

Who Are The St. Louis Blues?

Posted Tuesday | Comments 0
Over the past several seasons, we have seen an enormous amount of transition in the Blues franchise. Since 2004, the Blues have seen 2 owners, 3 Head Coaches, and 2 GM's and now the franchise is for sale yet again. How has this affected the team? Well, beginning in 05-06, the Blues have wound up with 57, 81, 79, 92, 90, and 89 points in each season respectively, whic...
It is the time of year where NHL professional prognosticators and armchair fans begin making predictions. Actually, that time of year starts when the season ends for most. However, in August, we now have an idea of what most teams will look like after the dust has settled on free agent frenzy and most players are signed where they will start the year. As an Edmonton Oil...
Before we start, I'd like to send out my thoughts, prayers and condolences to the family and friends of Rick Rypien. He was a great player who had a bright future in the NHL and also a player who knew his role and played it tremendously. He will be deeply missed in the hockey community. The speculation is that Rypien committed suicide. Having gone through this with family ...
Hi! I'm Flyersrock, and right now I'm bored, so I'm going to be starting a "series" of blogs with my opinion on what I think the 2011/2012 NHL season will look like. There are going to be 8 parts of this "series". This will include how i think the East Standings, West Standings, East playoffs, west playoffs, and the Stanley Cup Final will turn out. The other 4 blogs will b...
Happy retirement to Chris Drury. I really was hoping Montreal could've picked him up. Class act and a great player. Okay, so here we go with part 2. If you haven't seen part 1, go to my profile and check it out if it still isn't on homepage. What I'm doing here is a 5 part series of blogs. Part 1, Western Conference standings predictions. Part 2, Eastern Conference. Par...
Ya, not going to do any shout outs here, because that's not the type of guy that I am.(joke) Although I do think "Rangers"(saw a guy post in the NYR blog that he doesn't like it when people call them "Rags" fans) fans are being a little tough on Drury. The guy thought he would get signed somewhere. If your boss said "here's a raise for you before you leave", would you say ...
What the hell! They didn't give me enough space for my title! Well tonight i'm going to do my predictions for how I think the East playoffs will finish. Here we go! Happy readings! [u][b]ROUND 1[/b][/u] 1. Washington vs. 8. NY Rangers- Washington in 6. Why?: Washington re-loaded this off-season, and finally got their #1 goalie, much like the Flyers did. The reason I ...
Over the Next 30 days I will be Previewing each of the National Hockey League Clubs heading into the 2011-12 season starting from the Anaheim Ducks. Day 10 of the series belongs to the official AarifDeenReport Detroit Red Wings Preview. Please resort to myhockeybuzz page for previews of teams falling before this team. [b]Follow me on Twitter @AarifDeenReport please....
With hockey enthusiasts left to count the days until the puck drops again, I believe it would be a good time to share my predictions as to what will unfold between now and next April. Enjoy. Eastern Conference: 1. Washington Capitals 2. Pittsburgh Penguins 3. Boston Bruins 4. New York Rangers 5. Tampa Bay Lightning 6. Buffalo Sabres 7. Montreal Canadiens 8. Phil...
Well I guess I sort of lied when I said it'd be 2-3 days for the next blog, as it's now 6 days after... my bad. :) Today as you could tell by the title, i'm doing how I think the West playoffs will turn out this year! Cheers! [u][b]ROUND 1[/b][/u] 1. Vancouver vs. 8. Calgary- Vancouver in 5. Why?: Simple: Vancouver has everything. Great offence, great defence, and a...
Well, here we go. This is Part 3 of the series and I can't believe we're almost done!!! If you have no idea whats going on, I highly suggest you click onto my profile and read Part 1 and Part 2 and leave a comment telling me what you think! Part 1 of the series was dedicated to the Western Conference Regular season standings, while Part 2 was dedicated to the Eastern C...
First off, I'd like to say that I've had a pretty miserable week so far. 1st with going bcck to school. Then on Tuesday I found out that my great grandpa, who was a former scout for the NJ Devils, had passed away. My grandma and grandpa got a call from Lou Lamoriello, who gave his condolences to our family. He was also still paying him, even though he retired about 5 years...
What is going on here? Wade Belak, the happiest man on this planet, committed suicide. I know exactly what Wade's family is going through right now and what they're thinking. "Is it my fault?", "Why wasn't he happy enough?", "How could he do this to us?". My thoughts, prayers and condolences are with the Belak family in their time of need. Okay, lets talk predictions. T...
johndaniel53 writes...

2012 Predictions

Posted Sunday | Comments 0
Here we go! Tell me your thoughts and why. Please try to be an adult this blog isnt meant to hurt anyone its purely for fun. [u][b]Western Conference[/b][/u] 1. Van 2. LA 3. Chi 4. SJ 5. STL 6. Det 7. Nsh 8. Col 9. Clb 10. Min 11. Ana 12. Cgy 13. Dal 14. Edm 15. Phx [u][b]Eastern Conference[/b][/u] 1. TB 2. Buf 3. Pit 4. NYR 5. Was 6. Bos...
icedog97 writes...

Jets Jerseys

Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
I had a chance to look at the Jets new jersey's and I'm disappointed only in the fact that there isn't very much red (aside from the logo there is none) in the jersey. I think, like a lot of people, I wanted to see an updated version of the last Jets jersey's. Of course, as has been noted elsewhere on this site, maybe it was that expectation, along with the name, that m...
Well, i have been an avid reader of hockey buzz for many years now.. i finally decided to write a quick blog on how i think the Eastern conference 2012 season will play out: [b]East[/b] 1. Pitsburgh [i]Reason:[/i] I firmly believe that this is the team to beat in the east... having done what they did last season without crosby for the better part of the season and wit...
IceSage writes...

We've been had!!

Posted Friday | Comments 0
As die hard Buffalo Sabres fans, we have certainly had to suffer through our share of disappointments. Beyond that, we have also hung on every word of hope sent to us from owners and managers. Who could forget John Rigas standing before a crowd in downtown Buffalo, declaring that he was going to supply the tools to "get the job done" Looking back, I am not quite sure ex...
I decided to cut out the Draft predictions, as that would just be a waste of a blog, and too short. So now I am onto who I think will be the league leaders in the major stats catagories. It will include the Points leader, Goals winner, Assists champ, GAA leader, Save % leader, Wins leader, and shutouts leader. Well then, here we go! [u][b]TOP 10 POINT GETTERS [/b][/u] ...
Welcome to the final part of my 5 part series. But, before we start I have 3 things I want to say. 1) I dedicate this post to the victims of the tragic 9/11 terrorist attack. As all of you know, today marks the 10th anniversary of the horrific event. I actually have a personal connection to a victim. My aunt was actually a flight attendant on American Airlines Flight 1...
So with all the free time ive had on my hands at work with business slowing down /summer coming to an end im usually left with countless hours to surf the net. Unfortunatley all of the good sites are blocked ( Youtube, Yahoo, Hotmail etc) which means im left looking up meaningless stats and reading NHL blogs for the majority of my 8 hour shift. I might as well put all of t...
spasmatic13 writes...

The Banana Incident

Posted Friday | Comments 0
rather than try to retell the whole story ill just assume everyone has heard of this and to those who havnt direct you to espn.com to check it out. basically a banana was thrown from the stands at Wayne simmonds during a shootout attempt. This is my first blog and done from my Iphone so cut me some slack. that being out of the way lets jump into this. first up th...
Realignment 2012 is happening. The board of Governors along with the GM's announced publicly that realignment would be sorted out before the new year and that those changes would be put into effect at the start of the 2012-2013 season. That's all fine and dandy... except for the fact that we have no clue which team will end up in which conference/division come next season....
electric81 writes...

Red Wings Preseason Review

Posted Thursday | Comments 0
The Red Wings have closed out the regular season with a record of 4-3-1, which of course doesn’t mean much, but it’s the best way I could think of to start this blog. The Wings roster was rounded out this past week with the signing of Fabian Brunnstrom and Cory Emmerton to their respective posts, filling the holes that were left from Kris Draper and Mike Modano. ...
I spoke about the Red Wings in the last entry, but now it’s time to take a ppek at the rest of the Western Conference. For the most part, the teams seem to be improving. There are a few teams to note though. Lots of folks have been hanging on San Jose to be the all-out favorite this year, having brought in defenseman Brent Burns and forward Martin Havlat from Minnes...
[img]http://wwwcache.wralsportsfan.com/asset/racing/nascar/2008/09/25/3611612/25368-nhl-400x300.jpg[/img] [b]Follow me on Twitter @AarifDeenReport please.[/b] We are now 8 days into the new NHL season. We’ve got goals, fights, suspensions (with videos), shutouts, and yes! The first classless act of the season from Mr. Arron Asham (albeit he’s a good guy, and ma...
Ed Stein writes...

The Predators need Kyle Turris

Posted Thursday | Comments 0
To make the playoffs, someone has to score goals for the Predators. Kyle Turris should be that man. Find out why. http://www.centericereport.com/news_article/show/109976?referrer_id=352791
The Red Wings seem to be just the nicest team in the NHL these days. In two straight games, they’ve to put their own aspirations in the drawer. They stepped aside and allowed Washington to be the lone undefeated team. Last night they also decided that enough is enough, and Columbus should have a victory too. Remember your dinner table manners and that nobody can have...
Did you watch the game last night? I did. And yes, I think Mikko Koivu should have definitely been called for his chippy hit on Kronwall. That aside, though, it’s starting to get really frustrating that the Red Wings can’t score. They did garner a point out of the ordeal against the Wild last night, but I’m sure that is no solace to the team who has scored only ...
electric81 writes...

Winning Streak Ends

Posted Thursday | Comments 0
I wanted to wait to post this blog after the results of the hearing on Chris Stewart for his hit on Niklas Kronwall Tuesday night. It certainly was a dirty hit and the immediate response of a major penalty plus a game misconduct was appropriate. It was also announced yesterday that Stewart would receive a 3-game suspension without pay, a little over $46,000. I di...
The Detroit Red Wings boarded Red Bird III last night after beating the Anaheim Ducks 4-2 at the Honda Center. The win garners Detroit 4 points out of a possible 8 on their recent road trip. 4 points is respectable, although I think the Wings would have been a little more satisfied with 5 or maybe 6. A better performance against St. Louis on Tuesday could have given the...
I know this is a little late, and after a lot of other bloggers have posted their quarter milestone reviews, but I just now got the opportunity. So here ‘tis! As of today, the Red Wings sit fourth in the Western Conference with 29 point, which is a pace set for 116 by seasons’ end. They are only 2 points behind the leaders, and justifying how their recent swing is...
The Lightning continue their mini road-trip tonight against the Detroit Red Wings. This is a real test for the team as it attempts to bounce back from the deflating Minnesota loss. The storyline for this game is intriguing as the Lightning have been unable to beat the Wings in the two teams’ last five meetings. The wings are red (no pun intended) hot right now as ...
Despite losing having lost tonight’s game, the Lightning shouldn’t be feeling too down on themselves. For me, tonight’s contest had a really positive atmosphere starting with the video tribute to Steve Yzerman and the standing ovation given to him. You could practically feel the raw emotion coming from all parties at the Joe. This guy is a legend. The Red Wings...
electric81 writes...

The Case for Semin

Posted Thursday | Comments 0
Eklund has been heralding a possible move of Alexander Semin the last few days with the Detroit Red Wings being one of the top contenders. A few thoughts… Semin hasn’t been in his top form since 2009-2010 where he posted 28 goals and 26 assists. He’s been decent enough this season, with 5 and 5. I haven’t been paying too close attention to the Capitals but ob...
andydrmm writes...

4-1 Final- Red Wings Win

Posted Friday | Comments 0
Hey All, I'll be back here ready to go for the Sabres game tonight. Get my take on the game as it unfolds tonight. Stay tuned! In order to win here, 5 minutes prior to puck drop, Buffalo needs to defend their end aggressively. Zetterberg leads this offense, and pose a serious threat if Buffalo gives them the blue line. Hopefully they have fast break outs of their own...
Last time John Tortorella and Brad Richards were at the St. Pete Times Forum it was a very happy time for the Lightning. Fresh off winning the Stanley Cup and heading into the lock-out, things looked good for the franchise moving forward. That was until the dreaded SALARY CAP…..ugh…..took hold of this team and forced Jay Feaster to rip the team apart. Richards was o...
As I write this article, I’m still debating what will happen due to the hit from Jordin Tootoo on, that’s right, Buffalo goalie Ryan Miller... Tough to say what will happen. For those who missed it, Tootoo went into the Buffalo end, followed closely by Christian Ehrhoff. Ehrhoff poked the puck from Tootoo and had his hand on Tootoo’s back. Ehrhoff followed the pu...
Well, the Ranger game is now over and I suppose it’s time to go over my downright dreadful predictions. Without further ado, my post-game recap. 1. Lightning dominate the game but the score is close until the final buzzer. The Rangers are red hot but the Lightning have all the intangibles necessary to beat this team. The final score? 5-4 Lightning. [b]Okay, so I didn...
The NHL announced yesterday that for the 2012-2013 season, the teams would be shuffled into a four-conference league. This is a huge win for the Detroit Red Wings organization and for their fans. For years, Mike Ilitch and Company has been yearning for a ticket into the Eastern Conference, and they thought they might have their chance when Atlanta moved north. They now ...
[img]http://d.yimg.com/a/p/sp/getty/b9/fullj.5cfadff89c55c7892381ab0fe12523c4/5cfadff89c55c7892381ab0fe12523c4-getty-135478954.jpg[/img] Well here we are, after having 2 days off in a row the flames are back to the grind. Tonight we get to watch the flames play the Predators on the road. In their last 10 meetings the flames have managed 6 wins against the predators. The...
yave1964 writes...

Wings 4 Pens 1 observations

Posted Tuesday | Comments 0
Nice win tonite, the last three games the Wings have outscored the opposition 16-4. A few things I noticed. Malkin was amazing tonite, got the goal late in the first when Kronwall pinched in and allowed a breakaway. Seems like he fired the puck twenty times tonite. Datsyuk was the wings best player, assisted ona goal then killed a penalty minutes later. Grea...
yave1964 writes...

Go west young men

Posted Sunday | Comments 0
The annual canadien west coast trip, followed by a revenge game with Nashville to finish the trip. How many points do we need to get for the trip to be a success? I think five is the magic number, any less is a bad trip, and more a gift. Road blues are still a problem this year, hopefully this trip takes care of it.........
electric81 writes...

Red Versus Blue

Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
It’s been a long time since I posted anything (which is to say it’s been a long time since I’ve been able to watch a Red Wings game in its entirety). Ironically enough, the last game I was able to watch was December 6 at St. Louis. It appears the tables have turned in the steadily-heating rivalry against the St. Louis Blues with the Wings taking this battle 3-2. ...
Gunner Staal writes...

Don't boo Max

Posted Thursday | Comments 2
I am not normally one to tell people who spend big money on attending an NHL game what to do, but I think booing Max Talbot in his return to Pittsburgh would be a poor choice. I believe this for a few reasons: First is that the Penguins were not going to offer him anything close to market value. They had moved on from him. I think it was the right move for the Pengui...
It's hard to believe that halfway through the regular season, the Chicago Blackhawks and Detroit Red Wings are just now meeting for the first of six times tonight when the Hawks host the Wings at the United Center. Over the last ten games, statistically speaking, the Blackhawks and Red Wings share virtually identical stats all around. Both teams have played very well of...
yave1964 writes...

Wings and stars

Posted Tuesday | Comments 0
Always enjoyed this semi rivalry, turco, Hull, Niewendyk, Guerin, Hatcher of the nineties, guys like Modano, Ott, Robidas, ect... have generally made this an enjoyable series. The current stars seem to be lacking a true identity, guys like Morrow and Ericksson are quasi stars, guys like Souray and Lehtonen are filler pickups, they look like they will be fringe playoff te...
[img] http://a3.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/377538_10150453288332293_500697292_8764872_728421700_n.jpg[/img] WJC It's official Canada gets its rematch against Russia, but this time its not for gold. After coming through the first round of the tournament Canada won every weighted game that they played along the way. Where does this leave us? We received a bu...
yave1964 writes...

Chris Conner sent down

Posted Tuesday | Comments 0
The Wings have sent Conner down to get his injured wrist rehabbed, but also it frees up cap space, there is a chance that it is a precurser to a deal. Hemsky for Kindl??? h
DLHockeyNews writes...

Shea Weber Back On The Ice

Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
The Nashville Predators d-man Shea Weber practiced without contact on Tuesday for the first time since suffering the injury on December 23 2011 againts the Dallas Stars, Says ESPN. The 26 year-old had skated with his teammates in a public practice in Franklin, but Nashville coach Barry Trotz maintains that there is still not a realistic time line for when the Predators ...
It has yet not been confirmed but it will be within the next few days to the next week. But the Detroit Red Wings will be hosting the 2013 Winter Classic, and the Toronto Maple Leafs will be visiting. There will also be a HBO 24/7 Road To The Winter Classic special. There really hasn't been much to say other than what has been leaked but the Leafs GM Brain Burke tweeted sa...
The Chicago Blackhawks just got a little too cautious at the end of the game last night against the Detroit Red Wings leading 2-1 with less than five minutes to play in the third period. In only their second season matchup against division rival, Detroit, the Blackhawks were looking to break out of a 3 game slump that started on January 2nd, 2012, only to extend it with...
14 of the past 19 on the road, an absolutely brutal, brutal stretch, the last three games the Wings havent had their legs, falling behind early by two or more all three times. I nice week at home, games every other day, plenty of rest and home cooking for this years best home team, Datsyuk healing, Jimmy Howard rested up. currently sitting in third place, two points behi...
Dear New York Islanders Players, Organization and Fans- First, I want to congratulate you on your victory against the Detroit Red Wings last night. A 5-1 score is very respectable against any team in today’s NHL. Also, it’s a great feeling to garner a solid victory at home after a disappointing road trip. Your goaltender seems to have shaken the cobwebs away. Yo...
electric81 writes...

An Apology to the Apology

Posted Thursday | Comments 0
After readings the comments to my last post, it’s now clear to me that the impression I intended to make was not translated to those who read it. It was never my intention to “bash” the New York Islanders. I was actually “bashing” the Detroit Red Wings. I did not wish to insinuate that, had they played with the intensity they normally do, the Red Wings would h...
mcefalu writes...

Blackhawks Aim To Clip Wings

Posted Friday | Comments 0
One might say that things are "pretty even" between the Chicago Blackhawks and their division neighbors, the Detroit Red Wings. They're so even, in fact, that the Blackhawks only hold a slight edge over the Motor City by two points in the standings and Detroit has one game in hand. The two teams will meet for the third time this season in Detroit tomorrow at 11:30 AM...
So with a very important stretch of games ahead for the Jets, it will be interesting to see what GM Kevin Cheveldayoff does with this team nearing the deadline if they are out of reach of the playoffs. Lets look at a few of the factors that currently haunt this team and how they might be rectified. Defense - Believe it or not, the Jets roster has some pretty good ta...
Tonight marks a chance for the Buffalo Sabres to try and get back on track. Ryan Miller will be back in net tonight. If he plays like the Ryan Miller of old the Sabres could steal one tonight and lift the burden of this road losing streak off their backs. Now Miller can play as well as he wants but the forwards and the defense need to give him the support he needs. They...
First off, hats off the the Detroit Red Wings for setting a franchise record 15 straight wins at home. Now down to business. As the old saying goes, "When it rains it pours." I'd say at this point it is flooding for the Buffalo Sabres. A 5-0 dismantlement of a Sabres team who is finding it impossible to find itself. And by that I mean this Sabres team just doesnt have a...
yave1964 writes...

Battling Jimmy Howard

Posted Tuesday | Comments 0
Jimmy Howard has turned into the modern day version of Billy Smith, intense, focused and God help you if you enter HIS crease. Last year in the playoffs against San Jose I felt he entered his own, even though we lost. Pavelski and his constant snow showers, Howard refused to back down and played a whale of a series. He is 27, entering his prime. I have to admit I wa...
The Nashville Predators are coming up on an incredibly important crossroads in their franchises history, one that could make or break the fans trust in the team, and thus their rooting interests. The Predators are fortunate to currently possess two of the top defensemen in the league in Shea Weber and Ryan Suter. They are also fortunate to have a top end goaltender in ...
Andy McDonald.......you're close, you're really close to making every St. Louis Blues fan very happy. Your speed, your vision, your finishing touch, your experience.....oh how we've missed you. You are the missing component in making the Blues go from a contender to a legitimate favorite come playoff time. Your impact on the ice will echo a great deal off the ice where ...
ardogg316 writes...

Meltdown in St. Paul

Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
The Minnesota seemed poised to win their first game post all star break against the Nashville Predators. Dany Heatley scored two goals in the first, the second being a pretty power play goal in which he grabbed it and as he was dropping it to the ice, swatted it out of midair into the net. The first period was all Wild, the unleashed a relentless forecheck that led to ...
With the trade deadline only weeks away, and the stretch run in full swing, it’s time to make some predictions. The Lightning have an off day, so today’s blog will give a brief synopsis of the month’s remaining games. Should anyone put money down on these predictions? With my track record, absolutely not. That said, with all the talk about taking things ‘one ga...
I wonder how worried Deanno is about losing his job if the Kings a)Lose in the first round, or b) don’t make the playoffs? I don’t know too much about Dean’s tenure in San Jose, but after listening to Craig Button a little while back, it seems as though Dean managed the Sharks the same way as he is currently managing the Kings by not making the right moves, let al...
BrowntoBure writes...

Canucks hitting snooze

Posted Monday | Comments 0
Canucks Hitting Snooze Posted by BrowntoBure, Feb 06, 2012 · 35 views We're just now entering what are known as 'the dog days' of the NHL season, but for the Vancouver Canucks it seems to have started much earlier this year. At first glance at the standings you may think that is just a typical Vancouverite looking for something to complain about, but when...
Feb. 6—The Red Wings dropped a loss tonight to the Phoenix Coyotes. The game was closer than the 3-1 score reflected because of the empty net goal of Martin Hanzal at the end of the game. Joey MacDonald had a decent game with 22 saves, but there is already talk of shopping for another goalie while all-star starter Jimmy Howard recovers from a broken finger. Evgeni Nab...
scottregnier writes...

Get Stupid With It

Posted Tuesday | Comments 0
In my lifetime I've seen the St. Louis Blues play hundreds of games. I've seen them at the Checkerdome/Arena/Greatest Place Of All Time. I've seen them at the Kiel Center/Savvis Center/Scottrade Center. I saw them play last season in Buffalo at the HSBC Arena. Nothing compared to what I saw at the Bridgestone Arena in Nashville. Predator fans are definitely one-of-a-k...
The Detroit Red Wings will head into this weekend with the home win streak of 18 games and the NHL home win record of 20 consecutive games on the line. The current record of 20 consecutive home wins is held by the 1929-30 Boson Bruins and the 1976 Philadelphia Flyers. The record would be a wonderful thing but the Wings may have bigger fish to fry. By bigger fish, I mean...
The debate rages on about who the greatest NHL defenseman of all time may be. Names like Paul Coffey, Raymond Bourque, and Chris Chelios come to mind. These were all great players in their own right, but the conversation always seems to boil down to two elite players, Bobby Orr and Nicklas Lidstrom. Until recently there was no argument. The greatest defenseman in NHL h...
The Detroit Red Wings made history on Tuesday Feb. 14 by winning 21 home games in a row and breaking the NHL record for most consecutive home wins in a single season. The talking heads are already downplaying the Wings’ accomplishment by pointing out that winning 21 consecutive home games is much easier in today’s NHL because after the NHL lockout the league went t...
The Detroit Red Wings made history on Tuesday Feb. 14 by winning 21 home games in a row and breaking the NHL record for most consecutive home wins in a single season. The talking heads are already downplaying the Wings’ accomplishment by pointing out that winning 21 consecutive home games is much easier in today’s NHL because after the NHL lockout the league went t...
Let me first premise my analysis on a Leafs-Nash trade by saying that it would take a lot of work on the Leafs part and a whole lot of luck. That being said I believe that Brian Burke is not interested in making it to the playoffs and losing in the first round, second round or even the conference finals. It is all about winning a Stanley Cup in Toronto and thus if the ...
yave1964 writes...

To deal or not to deal

Posted Monday | Comments 0
A week to go, decision time is here. Best record in hockey, slowly pulling away from the Blues, eyeballing the nucks for the conference crown, go with what we have or make a deal? We need one more solid forward, period. I LOVE the Miller, Abdelkader and Helm line, never been a Abdelkader fan but these three have something. They really should be a fourth line though, ...
chamb2am writes...

Joey MacDonald: The New #2!

Posted Monday | Comments 0
It almost comes as no surprise really but [b]Ty Conklin[/b] has been placed on [u]waivers[/u] by the Detroit Red Wings. This is coming after Joey MacDonald shocked and stole the hearts of all those in Detroit. He also stole a roster spot as the number two goaltender from Ty. Jimmy Howard is finally back after missing the past 8 games with a broken finger, thus making it ma...
yave1964 writes...

gameday versus the Hawks

Posted Tuesday | Comments 0
Gonna have Howard back in the lineup, cleary due to return as well. Nice little one day road trip before returning home for the next two. Catching a Chicago team that is trying to right the ship, and looked really good against the Blues a couple of nights ago. The Wings are well rested. Six game homestand, no back to backs, a nice make up from the schedule makers for...
chamb2am writes...

Red Wings are hurting

Posted Tuesday | Comments 0
Just in time for the Red Wings to get goaltender Jimmy Howard and forward Dan Cleary back from injuries news hit hard about superstar Pavel Datysuk getting arthroscopic surgery on his knee this morning. Datysuk, who is leading Detroit with 59 points in 59 games, is expected to miss the next couple of weeks. General manager Ken Holland said the surgery was "minor" and he...
Steve Yzerman has continued his trade tirade today with moves sending Steve Downie to Colorado in exchange for Kyle Quincey, only to send Quincy to Detroit in exchange for Detroit’s 2012 first round draft pick and Sebastien Piche. Yzerman was not finished there; he then sent forward Matt Fornataro to the Chicago Blackhawks in exchange for Brandon Segal. Here are some q...
chamb2am writes...

Bertuzzi: A wing till the end?

Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
According to the Detroit Free Press the Red Wings are working on a two-year contract extension with forward Todd Bertuzzi. The contract is expected to be finalized before the weekend. Bertuzzi is in his final season of his original two-year contract that pays him just under 2 millions dollars a season. The new contract is reported to bump his salary up over $2 million....
yave1964 writes...

Quincey first, who is next?

Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
Kyle Quincey was the perfect pickup for the Wings. As I see them, here are the reasons... 1. Former Wing, knows the players, the system, wont disrupt chemistry. 2. You can never have enough d-men in the post season. This gives us eight. 3. Insurance with Stuart moving on. 4. Can quarterback the second power play unit, something we desperately need. 5. He paired with...
mfreedman writes...

Leafs: Dear Ron Wilson

Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
Dear Ron Wilson, I along with most Leaf fans today feel your pain. Our team is not performing and it is frustrating as can be for fans, as well (I’m sure) for players and the coaches. You may feel that you are being unfairly blamed, as has been your feeling throughout your time in Leaf’s Nation. What I saw last night was pathetic. The players let you down early with...
predram writes...

Since I last blogged...

Posted Friday | Comments 0
Its been awhile for me writing a blog. Period. My last blog was March 5, 2010. My blog before that? January 15, 2010. Since I last blogged, we've seen 2 Stanley Cup winners hoist the Cup, Team Canada win gold at the Olympics, a riot in Vancouver, the passing of popular enforcers, the passing of an entire hockey team, hundreds of trades and signings, 2 Winter Classics, and ...
[img]http://bluelinestation.com/files/2012/01/5194542.jpg[/img] Nashville Predators GM David Poile is sending the message loud and clear to pending free agents Shea Weber and Ryan Suter. He is serious about winning a Cup and his moves in the last month are proving just that. David Poile is probably in the toughest position of any GM in the league right now. He is d...
Okay this current Red Wings slide just never seems to end. After they broke the NHL record for the most consecutive home wins, it seems like an entirely differently hockey, well in most part it is because it is. Let's take a quick run down of players that have missed a game of late: Pavel Datsyuk, Nick Lidstrom, Jimmy Howard, Todd Bertuzzi, Patrick Eaves, Dan Clear...
[img]http://l.yimg.com/j/assets/p/sp/getty/79/fullj.953db0c6ffe5f772bda1229576988201/953db0c6ffe5f772bda1229576988201-getty-141679603.jpg[/img] [b]Shots from around the league[/b] The battle for the top seed in the Eastern Conference is heating up between the Pittsburgh Penguins and the New York Rangers. The Rangers gutted out a 2-1 overtime victory over the Det...
Last night was the most significant win in the young history of the Nashville Predators. It was not the best game the Predators ever played. It was not an upset or a comeback for the ages. It was not a dominant performance. It didn't include the greatest goals, saves, or hits in Predator history. It wasn't a game that will go down in the NHL history books for anyt...
The second round of the NHL Playoffs start tonight and already the big name teams are gone Wings, Pens, Canucks, Shark, Hawks and the defending champ Bruins. Parity at its finest people. So without any further ado here are my predictions for the second round of the NHL playoffs: Blues-Kings (Blues in 7)- This is going to be a very low scoring series in my opinion. I ...
andydrmm writes...

NHL Semifinals 2011-2012

Posted Saturday | Comments 0
Wow, that was an exciting first round with numerous upsets, and plenty of teams having some very close calls over the past 2 weeks. Like you, I’m surprised about several of the teams that are still alive and kicking in the NHL playoffs. Here’s my take on the 2nd round, and predictions as to who is moving on to the Conference Finals. http://betweenthebenches.com/?p...
It is often said that the most important position in sports is that of the goal-tender. While not every sport has a goal-tending position, you’d be hard pressed to find a player, coach, or member of management in sport’s like hockey and soccer that would disagree with the above. In the NHL, General Managers looking to build their team from the ground-up will agree that...
What do you do if you're Predator's GM David Poile? Sure, he's trying to lock up Ryan Suter, but he can't [i]make[/i] Suter sign anything. He knows that Detroit, among others, will be backing the money-truck up to Suter's front door come July 1st, driving up the cost of Shea Weber at this time next year. So what do you do? Do you risk losing Suter for nothing, do y...
thebartthe writes...

No Freddy the Fog again!?!

Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
As usual, Fred Shero was not voted into the Hockey Hall of Fame. I certainly am not surprised by this since I don't think they'll ever enshrine Fred into the Hall of Fame. I heard there are some people highly opposed to his enshrinement. I guess it has to do with the whole "Broad Street Bullies" era of the Flyers. I was a small kid at the time and don't remember a l...
Tender writes...

Detroit Red Wings Off-season

Posted Saturday | Comments 0
With Nicklas Lidstrom off to a retirement home and the Red Wings looking to "rebuild", this off-season could be a big one for Red Wings fans. The Red Wings have a good core group of players and have a lot of cap room to sign some intriguing free agents. Here is what Ken Holland should do, in my opinion: -Re-sign Justin Abdelkader: three years, $5.4 million ($1.8 mil AAV...
I know I promised (on Facebook) that I wouldn't make any Monster jokes, but I couldn't help myself. Wings have inked former Toronto backstop Jonas Gustavsson to a 2 year deal. Gustavsson went 39-45-15 in 107 appearances with the Maple Leafs over the past three seasons with a 298 goals-against average and a .900 save percentage. To be honest, I’m not terribly exci...
Relax, this is just a little trick I picked up in Colorado. In what could be the oddest news of the opening day of NHL free agency, the Avalanche and the Islanders have both signed Matt Carkner. Unfortunately, Gary Bettman has ruled that two teams cannot share a player, and since Matt Carkner only actually signed with New York, they get him. An interesting tactic, thoug...
I am not trying to lend credence to any unverified rumors, but in anticipation of working a double shift tomorrow with no access to any hockey news, I wanted to put my thoughts on these “reports” out there. [b]Parise/Suter[/b] I would be ecstatic if both were signed. If I had to pick one: Suter. I haven’t found a single intelli...
JasonPanov writes...

Guess I Was Wrong

Posted Sunday | Comments 0
In the first cheer-worthy move of the day, the Wings have brought back Mikael Samuelsson. Again, I’ve already said that I liked Monster’s signing, but he’s more of a stocking stuffer since I expect Joey MacDonald to put up a serious fight for the number two gig. Okay, so this guy is probably a stocking stuffer, too, but let’s call him a fan favorite. I liked Sam...
As I write this, Ryan Suter has yet to make an announcement as to where he'll play next season. But earlier tonight, Josh Yohe, Pens beat writer for the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review tweeted: "I can confirm that the Penguins and Ryan Suter's agent, Neil Sheehy, had a conversation today. So far, apparently no offer was made." This is disturbing to me. How in th...
derfmred writes...

Habs view from the rock 1

Posted Tuesday | Comments 0
This summer has already dragged on to long. I love the great weather but miss hockey to much. I enjoy the CFL but it is not quite enough to get me through. So far this off season I am happy with what the Montreal Canadiens have done. The office staff is rounding out quite nice, the team is a little tougher. But being stuck with a few bad contracts is really holding them ba...
cjprimeau writes...

The sky is falling!!! NOT.

Posted Friday | Comments 0
For most Detroit Red Wings fans, this off-season has been a complete disaster. I even heard an interview on the radio, that suggested it was an absolute meltdown in the front office and Ken Holland should be fired immediately. This is just ludicrous. Sure you could look at it from one perspective, we lost one of the best defenseman to ever lace them up in Nick Lidstrom. We...
So it's come to this, folks. We've missed out on the Suter/Parise sweepstakes. We lost Wideman to Calgary (though with the contract, this should be considered a relief), Garrison to Vancouver, and Carle to the greatest man to ever lace up as a member of the Winged Wheel. Ken Holland, it would seem, is running out of options. However, the man is a wizard, and I present this...
AarifDeen writes...

Offseason Review: Part 1 of 6

Posted Saturday | Comments 0
[b]For everything hockey - 24/7 news updates, scores, humour, blogs, and everything else in between, please follow me on twitter at https://twitter.com/DailyNHLGrind.[/b] We are now currently just a few days into the most horrifying month of the year for the entire hockey world. Seriously now, August definitely is the worst time to be a hockey fan. Free agency has die...
[b]For everything hockey - 24/7 news updates, scores, humour, blogs, and everything else in between, please follow me on twitter at https://twitter.com/DailyNHLGrind.[/b] LINK TO PART ONE: [url]http://my.hockeybuzz.com/blog.php?post_id=13838&user_id=131735[/url] Today is day two of a six-day series that will look at the job done by the 30 GM’s around the league. Fr...
Well, with the look of the Flyers roster becoming clearer as we approach opening day, here are my predictions for how the 2012-13 season will shake out for the Flyers. Will be fun to revisit these in June and see how close I got. 1. Paul Holmgren will sign Michal Rosival to a one year deal in an attempt to fill the hole on defense after the injury to Meszaros. 2. And...
In my recent spare time I've tried to make a magic process that can predict the amount of points a player will accumulate over any period of games. For accuracy's sake, this process will only apply to first-line players (using The Hockey News Depth Charts to define a player as ‘first-line’). Creating the steps has been a process of trial and error that has taken severa...
As a follow-up on my recent predictions of the Northeast division, I'll be weighing in today with my thoughts on possibly the best division in hockey. The Atlantic Division contained 4 playoff teams last year, or the number produced by the Southeast and Northeast divisions combined. The fact that the Eastern final was between two Atlantic teams, and didn't feature perenia...
Tender writes...

My all-time Red Wings roster

Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
Yes, the NHL is locked out. However, I will still blog about the NHL and, more specifically, the Detroit Red Wings. Since they are not playing any games and I cannot complain about poor performance or how Brendan Smith is the “real deal”, I will discuss other topics relating to the Red Wings of the past. Hopefully the season will start soon with the recent 50/50 propos...
The NHL Entry Draft began in 1979, following 16 years of the NHL Amateur Draft. Here are the Top 10 Red Wings draft picks made since the first Amateur Draft in 1963. 1. [b]Steve Yzerman[/b] C, 1st Round 1983, #4 overall 2. [b]Marcel Dionne[/b] C, 1st Round 1971, #2 overall 3. [b]Nicklas Lidstrom[/b] D, 3rd Round 1989, #53 overall 4. [b]Sergei Fedorov[/b] C, 4th Round...
Tender writes...

Update on Red Wings Overseas

Posted Friday | Comments 0
While the NHL is disintegrating, some of the Red Wings have taken their talents elsewhere to stay fresh, make a living, or just play the game they enjoy. Thanks to [url]www.hockeydb.com[/url], you can see their stats from the different European leagues. Here is a list of the players who are overseas and their stats in case anyone wanted to know how [b]Henrik Zetterberg[/b]...
derfmred writes...

I can see the straw coming.

Posted Tuesday | Comments 0
I decided to try to write a weekly blog on here just to vent my opinion. Well this is number 2 since July so I'm off to a roaring start. I wanted to get into it about the weekly games and how I was feeling about the NHL and the Habs. But here I am struggling to hold on to any kind of caring about hockey. I went from being mad at the owners, to being mad at the players to j...
Here is more evidence that hockey players are the best shit-talkers in all of sports. While I believe that both sides need to make concessions in order to reach a fair deal, you have to give Ian White some credit for speaking his mind and not holding back. White's comments are blowing up Twitter (to the extent that hockey can blow up Twitter). I'd like to see a NHL rep...
Imagine you are the crew chief of an Indy Car team, and you were just informed that this year’s Indianapolis 500 has been rescheduled as the “Indy 275”. That’s pretty much the challenge that has been put in front of NHL GMs, coaches, and players. With a 48 game schedule, this season will have a unique character. A hot streak will give that much more of an advantage...
How is it that there could be a player making so much money that he couldn’t play in the NHL, and needed to be sent to the minors, and at the same time there could be a player making so much money, that he couldn’t be sent to the minors, and needed to play in the NHL? Well, that’s essentially the description of the more than slightly odd circumstances that Wade Redde...
derfmred writes...

Game 1 More of the same

Posted Tuesday | Comments 0
'Well game one in the record books in this shortened season and its like a Gomez free 2011-2012. Carey Price was fantastic, he made some unreal saves as he usually does but as we have seen far to many times in the past he was almost the lone bright spot. The top line was completely silent and the rest of the team barley showed up. Toronto played an alright game but Montrea...
Well that was much better. Again Carey Price was on top of his game, again a night with some highlight reel saves. The way this guy plays the puck is a part of his game that does not seem to get a lot of attention. Last nights game and in the game vs Toronto there was a play where he cleared that puck by shooting it at the glass by the blue line about a foot down. Tell me ...
The Coyotes were defeated today by the Nashville Predators 3-0. It was the kind of game through the first 2 periods that both teams would be comfortable playing any day. It was very defensive with almost no real big threats on goal. There really is not much to say about those first two periods because neither team really grabbed the momentum and a lot of back and forth...
That was a question recently asked by an associate of mine. Over the past few years the #Detroit Redwings have lost a considerable amount of talent (Nicklas Lidstrom, Brian Rafalski, Brad Stuart, Jiri Hudler and a few others) and haven't been able to replace those players. So the question must be asked.... "Has Ken Holland lost his mojo?" As a lifelong Detroit ...
[b]I am[/b] one who looks from the outside when I follow the NHL circus from the other side of the Atlantic sea. To be more precise I try to watch as much as I can even thou the games start in the middle of the night when you live in Sweden and have a full time job. One concept that is a bit fascinating are the idea of a team or a franchise having one of their own so ca...
When I first saw this on the blocks I thought to my self "no way that was a good deal for the caps"! I saw some people posting their arguments. They said that Forsberg, still only 18 only plays in the second league of Sweden and also that since he is so young there is still many years left before we know his NHL caliber My comeback would be: [b]Yes [/b]- still young...
I to will do the famous “prediction section” as to • Who will be the MVP • Which team will fold like napkin and be tossed away • Who will be the most hated guy • Which team going ride the lucky plucky ride • And lastly, who is actually taking the Lord Stanley home for dinner and a drink? Lets start with the quickie matchup rundown [i](teams/games/tho...
I to will do the famous “prediction section” as to • Who will be the MVP • Which team will fold like napkin and be tossed away • Who will be the most hated guy • Which team going ride the lucky plucky ride • And lastly, who is actually taking the Lord Stanley home for dinner and a drink? Lets start with the quickie matchup rundown [i](teams/games/t...
Jayo1808 writes...

Oilers Playoffs aka: The Draft

Posted Saturday | Comments 0
So, Oilers blogger Richard Cloutier (@rdcloutier on twitter) wrote a blog today suggesting that MacT will be trying to trade up a couple spots so that he can pick Sasha Barkov. Considering the recent news that Valery Nichushkin has decided to come to North America, I can definately see the possibility of Barkov being available around the 4 or 5 spot. I wr...
With one of the better Stanley Cup Finals of recent memory now in the rear view mirror, the attention of the hockey world now turns to the Draft, which is less than a week away. This year's crop is considered the deepest in a decade, and there is sure to be plenty of excitement when the picks are made June 30th in New Jersey. As hockey executives and enthusiasts prepare fo...
With one of the better Stanley Cup Finals of recent memory now in the rear view mirror, the attention of the hockey world now turns to the Draft, which is less than a week away. This year's crop is considered the deepest in a decade, and there is sure to be plenty of excitement when the picks are made June 30th in New Jersey. As hockey executives and enthusiasts prepare fo...
[b]Ilya Bryzgalov, 33 - Philadelphia[/b] Contract: $51.0m/9yrs Buyout: $23.0m/14yrs This contract is the definition of what the power of having a union can do for you. For most people who are fired or let go they are lucky to get severance and even if they do, that severance is almost nothing to kick back on and retire early with. Meet Ilya Bryzgalov. The epitome o...
As July 5th approaches, Don't expect the Detroit Redwings to be in on many of the available free agents. Why? Because, The Redwings already have a 20 players signed for next season and they still need to sign some of their own RFA's. Brendan Smith, Gustav Nyquist and Joakim Anderson still need contracts. These are players the Redwings want to keep in the fold. Sign...
Exciting times ahead in Motown. The Wings were active on FA Day bringing in much needed top six depth while staying away from costly trades or ill-timed signings. I've seen a lot of fans chime in on line combinations lately, and without a doubt Mr. Babcock has plenty of options to play with. But, for the thrill of the guess, i'll post my idea of an ideal situation on op...
It's day two in Traverse City. That means we've seen Red Wings picks from the past few seasons on the ice together for two days. So what have we learned so far? 1) Little Bertuzzi is a pain to play against: just ask Nick Jenson who got into a scrap with the second round pick during day one. Bertuzzi got the best of him and now Jenson is nursing a shoulder tweak and mis...
While we're in Development camp mode, I wanted to dive a little deeper and look at five Wing prospects that have great potential to either play in Detroit or Grand Rapids this season. The future is bright for the Wings and I wouldn't be surprised if the Griffins went for a repeat next year. With Nyquist, Tatar, Andersson and DeKeyser likely making the jump to full ti...
The Red Wing finished up a solid development camp. We've got some good players coming through Grand Rapids next year. But perhaps the most important thing that I noticed at Development Camp was the progression of goaltender and 3rd round pick Jake Paterson. (Not to be confused with Jake Patterson, who was also at camp on a tryout basis and looked decent) I'll admit afte...
I'm writing a quick blog about my thoughts on the Wings lineup for the opener against Buffalo. And addressing why I think this is the best lineup to get points. Franzen/Datsyuk/Zetterberg Nyquist/Weiss/Alfredsson Abdelkader/Helm/Tatar Miller/Andersson/Eaves Ericsson/Kronwall Smith/Kindl DeKeyser/Quincy Lashoff Injury call ups: Emmerton, Jurco, Jarnkrok, Sh...
So Mike Babcock is going to coach Team Canada. That's a shocker. Seriously though, lets talk about something that hasn't been known for the past year. It isn't news folks. How about we mock up some lines for Team Canada, that's always fun. Here's what I got lining up on Forward: Towes/Crosby/Stamkos Perry/Giroux/Getzlaf Nash/Tavares/Staal Couture/Bergeron/...
Adams writes...

Nashville Trade Proposal

Posted Sunday | Comments 0
to EDM: Weber(7.8m), Gaustad(3.2m), Taylor Beck(.9m) ___________________________ to NSH: Smid(3.5m), Petry(1.7m), Hemsky(5m), Marincin(.9), Rajala(.8)_______________ _____________________________________________________________________ The salaries work out well for both. The positional depth works out well for both teams even better. Check it out on cap geek's cap calcula...
[i]"Thunder only happens when it's raining Players only love you when they're playing"[/i] Ah, Fleetwood Mac, sometimes you just get me. Lots of rumours swirling around the internet surrounding the Winged Wheel. Talk of Tootoo going back to the Music City...and really, why not? I'd trade him for a bag of pucks just to get a few more dollars back. Let's be honest, he is...
“I point the finger squarely on (NHL agent) JP Barry, the man who blessed us with the (Dany) Heatley mess.” Doesn’t it feel like every time the Senators hit center stage in the NHL world Eugene Melnyk is quoted saying something as blasphemous as this? I mean if it’s not his personal vendetta against Matt Cooke being publicly announced after his top defense m...
BiggE writes...

Upcoming NHL Season predicitions

Posted Saturday | Comments 0
Here are one man's picks for where every team will finish this season. It goes without saying that most will be end up being wrong! If there's one thing I've learned in 40+ years as an NHL fan, its that every season is pretty much unpredictable! *teams will make the playoffs! Metropolitan (BTW, I still think that's a stupid name for a division!) 1. Pittsburgh*: Th...
Nova_CBJ writes...

If I were Richards...

Posted Tuesday | Comments 0
Preseason is coming to an end and with the roster already trimmed I feel like I can make my predictions on the opening night lineup. rnrnStarting with just the roster: rnrn[u]Forwards[/u]rn10 MARIAN GABORIK rn17 BRANDON DUBINSKYrn42 ARTEM ANISIMOV rn13 CAM ATKINSON rn11 MATT CALVERT rn18 RJ UMBERGER rn71 NICK FOLIGNO rn19 RYAN JOHANSEN rn55 MARK LETESTU rn14 BLA...
Nova_CBJ writes...

If I were Richards...

Posted Tuesday | Comments 0
Preseason is coming to an end and with the roster already trimmed I feel like I can make my predictions on the opening night lineup. Starting with just the roster: [u]Forwards[/u] 10 MARIAN GABORIK 17 BRANDON DUBINSKY 42 ARTEM ANISIMOV 13 CAM ATKINSON 11 MATT CALVERT 18 RJ UMBERGER 71 NICK FOLIGNO 19 RYAN JOHANSEN 55 MARK LETESTU 14 BLA...
Nova_CBJ writes...

If I were Richards...

Posted Tuesday | Comments 0
Preseason is coming to an end and with the roster already trimmed I feel like I can make my predictions on the opening night lineup. rnrnStarting with just the roster: rnrn[u]Forwards[/u]rn10 MARIAN GABORIK rn17 BRANDON DUBINSKYrn42 ARTEM ANISIMOV rn13 CAM ATKINSON rn11 MATT CALVERT rn18 RJ UMBERGER rn71 NICK FOLIGNO rn19 RYAN JOHANSEN rn55 MARK LETESTU rn14 BLA...
Nova_CBJ writes...

If I were Richards...

Posted Tuesday | Comments 0
Preseason is coming to an end and with the roster already trimmed I feel like I can make my predictions on the opening night lineup. rnrnStarting with just the roster: rnrn[u]Forwards[/u]rn10 MARIAN GABORIK rn17 BRANDON DUBINSKYrn42 ARTEM ANISIMOV rn13 CAM ATKINSON rn11 MATT CALVERT rn18 RJ UMBERGER rn71 NICK FOLIGNO rn19 RYAN JOHANSEN rn55 MARK LETESTU rn14 BLA...
In preparation for the 2013-14 season, I thought I'd give you an overview of the team I expect to see. Jagr-Henrique-Ryder Elias-Zajac-Brunner Clowe-Loktionov-Zubrus Barch-Bernier-Carter Zidlicky-Volchenkov Greene-Harrold Larsson-Salvador A few notes: -Although the top two lines will probably be shuffled around on the regular basis, I'd like to see Jagr and Henrique...
Tim Chiasson writes...

30 Teams 30 Predictions

Posted Tuesday | Comments 0
[i]Before I get into the predictions, I've created an ESPN fantasy league in hopes of finding 9 other people willing to join. There are currently 7 teams left, so join up! Here's the link:[/i] [url]http://games.espn.go.com/fhl/leagueoffice?leagueId=54437[/url] [u][b]30 Teams, 30 Predictions[/b][/u] Anaheim – A flavor of the shortened season, they fail to make pl...
Catch the highlights as the Detroit Red Wings as they hosted the Buffalo Sabres on October 2, 2013. Who will come out on top? Find out in today's featured game of the National Hockey League on EA Sports NHL 14 - play-by-play calling by Eric Munter. [url]http://youtu.be/hA_GWhRIuWQ[/url]
Although you can still count the number of games played for each team on your hands, I thought I'd give my two cents in what I think will happen in the long run. The Stanley Cup Finals will be the San Jose Sharks vs. Detroit Red Wings in which SJ wins in 6. (To those that might remember a different prediction on a Toronto blog thread, I rethought it.) Why the Sharks? Beca...
Okay, so I'm rather new to this blog thing, but here it goes. (Fair warning: This article is a rant about people ranting and will be long and boring probably.) I've been a fan of hockey, and in particular the Detroit Red Wings and the Chicago Blackhawks for over 25 years (having grown up in between these two great hockey cities) now. My favorite team falls to the Detr...
The Ducks have signed goalie Frederik Andersen to a 2 year contract extension. It's a 1-way contract, so he will get paid his NHL salary with the Ducks or with the Admirals. He is signed for $1 million in the 1st season and $1.3 million in the 2nd season, for an annual cap hit of $1.15 million. With him signed for 2 more years, the Ducks goaltending situation is becoming a...
alupo88 writes...

Islanders Return to LI

Posted Tuesday | Comments 0
The New York Islanders come home from a road trip that was not to friendly to them playing 4 games and losing all 4 to gain not a single point. The Islanders who lost to Washington, Carolina, Columbus and Montreal respectfully and are actually the favorite to win due to the Nashville Predators coming to town who have lost their past 2 games and also being shut o...
In October I posted a prediction for each of the thirty teams. Now that we're just about 25% through the year, let's see how out to lunch I really was. 30 Teams, 30 Predictions Anaheim – A flavor of the shortened season, they fail to make playoffs. [b]Obviously this doesn't seem to be true thus far, with Anaheim 2nd in the West. I guess Bruce Boudreau wasn't ...
December 25 A very Merry Christmas to all you hockey fans out there! As we have hit the Christmas break of the 2013-14 NHL season, let's take a quick gander at to what we have seen thus far. In my opinion, the Anaheim Ducks are the best team in the league at the moment. The Ducks have also approached the midseason break with a nine game winning streak as a result...
[b]Game day Preview: Red Wings @ Flyers 1/28/14 RED WINGS (23-18-11) at FLYERS (25-22-6)[/b] The Flyers have lost 4 straight, making it the worst losing streak since October. With The Stanley Cup Playoffs about 11 weeks away, and with the standings so closely bunched together in the Eastern Conference, each game seems like it will have serious postseason implications ...
[b]Flyers dominate Red Wings, win 5-0 [/b] Before the game even started, most would have said it would not have ended well for the Philadelphia Flyers, even with the injures in Detroit. Steve Mason had other ideas and was superb for the Philadelphia Flyers, shutting out the Detroit Red Wings, leading the Flyers to a 5-0 win. Steve Mason made several highlight reel ...
In light of the recent NHL hiatus I, like many hockey fans, have turned my attention towards the Winter Olympic Games that are currently taking place in Sochi, Russia. Similar to the food for thought being offered by legions of armchair GM’s around the world of hockey, I thought I would weigh in with my predictions of how this prestigious tournament will play itself out....
In light of the recent NHL hiatus I, like many hockey fans, have turned my attention towards the Winter Olympic Games that are currently taking place in Sochi, Russia. Similar to the food for thought being offered by legions of armchair GM’s around the world of hockey, I thought I would weigh in with my predictions of how this prestigious tournament will play itself out....
bpitfield writes...

2012 NHL Draft - Redraft

Posted Sunday | Comments 3
Edmonton - Nail Yakupov (original pick) - Ryan Murray (updated pick) - The Oilers decide to take the best defenseman in defence first draft. In Murray they get a their first steady, top pairing defenseman since Chris Pronger left town. Yakupov slips because of his inconstancy combined with the team’s surplus of elite forwards and dearth on defence. Columbus - Ryan Mur...
My good friend BHTD9 came to me with the idea of coming up with some predictions for next season today and I have to say I was intrigued. To be fair, I'm not as solid on my western conference material. Guaranteed there'll be a few disagreements here. That said, lets give it a shot then. Last Years Standings Colorado - 112 St. Louis - 111 Chicago - 107 Minnesota - ...
.................................................................................................................................. Here are my playoff predictions or better yet guesses for the upcoming season. I’ve also included some forecasts or guesses for some individual players. For general context, my idea for someone who will have a big year is an increase of say 1...
[b]Follow me on Twitter @DailyNHLGRIND[/b] Last year’s newly formed Atlantic division was headlined by the 2012-13 Eastern Conference Champion Boston Bruins and the finally-turned-east Detroit Red Wings. The Bruins did in fact lead the pack but trailing right behind was the Tampa Bay Lightning and Montreal Canadiens. The Red Wings were able to inch into the playoffs l...
[b]Follow me on Twitter @DailyNHLGrind[/b] [b]A Glance Back[/b] Looking back, it’s insane to think that this division didn’t win the Stanley Cup. The Blackhawks were amazing, the Blues were great, and the Avalanche were simply fantastic. They actually stole the title from St. Louis during the final days of the season. Patrick Roy got the best out of pretty muc...
You can find me at https://twitter.com/DailyNHLGrind With training camp just weeks away, the amount of big name restricted free agents is seemingly a lot longer than years past. Even though award-winning players such as Ryan O’Reilly and PK Subban have already come to terms, the names highlighting the list of RFA’s this summer still without a contract are valuable t...
[b]Please follow me at https://twitter.com/DailyNHLGrind[/b] The Western Conference also boasts a few good names still left unsigned. Jaden Schwartz headlines the group that includes a goalie that won a couple playoffs games this year and a young winger that scored a series-winning goal. The rest of the group all gained playoff experience except for the young Predators ...
Holy Crap! What is with all of these Restricted Free Agents missing their teams training camps because of contract disputes?!?! Torey Krug, Rielly Smith, Cody Eakin, Brendan Dillon, Ryan Ellis, Jaden Schwartz, and perhaps the biggest name in the group Ryan Johansen. All seven of these players are still negotiating new contracts with their clubs in September after becoming ...
When it comes to deciding the outcome of games, the Detroit Red Wings would rather fight than shoot it out.rnLooking at their numbers during the shootout, who can blame them?rn“I think a lot of guys are getting sick of it,” Detroit goalie Jimmy Howard said. In their latest game, Sunday’s 4-3 loss to the Tampa Bay Lightning, the Wings failed on all three shootout atte...
ZzHockey writes...

Varlamov - hurt again...

Posted Tuesday | Comments 0
Once again in less than 20 games for the Colorado Avalanche, goaltender Semyon Varlamov is injured. The first time Varly sustained a lower body injury during morning practice before the Avalanche took on the Ottawa Senators. In that game, less than three minutes in, backup goalie Reto Berra, would sustain a head injury after a collision with two players. This left young ro...
ZzHockey writes...

Preds real or illusion?

Posted Thursday | Comments 6
It was not long ago the Nashville Predators were drafting #4 overall and again #11 overall. Things seemed to be on the down side in Tennessee, especially after watching their top two defenseman headed out. Ryan Suter signed a multi-year multi-million dollar contract with now division rival Minnesota Wild. Shae Weber signed a 14 year offer sheet with the Philadelphia Flyers...
[b]Follow me on Twitter: https://twitter.com/DailyNHLGrind[/b] Ladies and gentleman, the cardiac kids are back. Colorado was down two goals twice tonight and roared back to win 4-3 against the Hurricanes at the Pepsi Center. Reto Berra started the game but was pulled late in the first period after surrendering three goals on 10 shots. With Varlamov still suffering from ...
AarifDeen writes...

Rinne shuts out the Avs

Posted Tuesday | Comments 0
[b]Follow me on Twitter: https://twitter.com/DailyNHLGrind[/b] Colorado’s season continues to dwindle after another shutout loss in Denver. The Predators came into the Pepsi Center and put one goal past Calvin Pickard. They would eventually add a couple of empty-net goals to finish off the struggling Avs 3-0. Pickard was called up to start after Semyon Varlamov onc...
[b]Follow me on Twitter: https://twitter.com/DailyNHLGrind[/b] The Avalanche is turning a corner. With John Mitchell and Patrick Bordeleau both returning to the lineup tonight, the Avs are as healthy as they have been in a long time. Colorado completed its second game of a three-game road trip tonight at the First Niagara Center and came away with a 5-1 victory. It w...
[b]Follow me on Twitter: https://twitter.com/DailyNHLGrind[/b] For the third time in four games the Avs received a late goal with Semyon Varlamov on the bench. In Tampa Nathan MacKinnon scored with 7 seconds left, at home against Boston Ryan O’Reilly scored with 1:45 remaining, and tonight, with just 36 seconds left on the clock, Nick Holden scored to tie the game at ...
[b]Follow me on Twitter: https://twitter.com/DailyNHLGrind[/b] Nashville has the second best record in the NHL? No problem. Erik Johnson is out for the foreseeable future? Big deal. Semyon Varlamov starts his 15th game over the last 16 contests? No biggie. The Avalanche welcomed the Predators to the Pepsi Center in the second of a home-and-home series tonight and wal...
The Nashville Predators are hands down the NHL’s best team this season. Expecting to make a deep playoff run, the Predators decided to be buyers on the trade market. The Predators acquired two of their former draftees from the Toronto Maple Leafs, Cody Franson and Mike Santorelli. Franson was selected in the 3rd round by Nashville in 2005 and Santorelli in the 6th round ...
A day after both the Penguins and the Red Wings were handed disappointing losses, it was just the Penguins that had that happen to them again. Detroit creamed the Penguins by a score of 5-1 in a game in which tempers flared and the teams were on edge for most of the contest. For the Penguins, they should have done better than they did against the Bruins Saturday afterno...
Cam Neely addressed the media yesterday from TD Garden. Just a mere few hours of delivering the news that longtime General Manager, Peter Chiarelli, had been fired from the Boston Bruins. The main topic of the press conference was the future of Claude Julien. Claude has been the head coach in Boston since 2007, and this season was the first time the Bruins had misse...
On one team there is a big question mark on who should be their starting goaltender and the other it is a no brainer. The Detroit Red Wings have put playoff rookie Petr Mrazek (.918Sv%, 2.38GAA) in net for game 1 of the season instead of veteran Jimmy Howard (.910Sv%, 2.44GAA). In the Tampa Bay Lightning net it won’t be difficult to decide who to play. Ben Bishop (.916Sv...
Sorry Detroit fans, but this one is quite sad. Since the year 2000, the Detroit Red Wings have made 7 first-round selections. All others were traded off for assets and players, but to have only 7 picks in 15 years, considering the abundance of talent that has emerged since, is the main reason why Detroit isn’t the Dynasty Team they were in the days of Steve Yzerman. ...
Cyras18 writes...

GM Mode - Buffalo Sabres 2015

Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
Welcome to the GM Mode[code]Today I will be taking a look at the Buffalo Sabres and analyze a series of “hypothetical” moves that the Buffalo Sabres should make.Buffalo Sabres GM; Tim Murray is faced with many decisions since after the NHL Draft of 2015. He may not have had the first overall pick but the second pick (Jack Eichel) is a great starting point for a team t...
LazarBeam writes...

Jared Cowen: A New Hope

Posted Friday | Comments 0
[img]http://www.cbc.ca/sports-content/hockey/opinion/assets_c/2013/05/white-canadiens_620-thumb-620xauto-295459.jpg[/img] To see more like this check out the Sens News section of my website! [url]http://lazarbeams.com/?cat=4[/url] Six foot five, 228 lbs, drafted 9th overall in 2009, entering his 24/25 year old season. We all have our opinions about Cowen...
In this article, I will outline which teams I believe will ice the top special team's index's this upcoming season. For those who are unsure what a special team index is; It is a number developed by adding both the PK% and the PP% of a specific team. As a reference point, last season the St. Louis Blues had the best index at 106, while the Sabres posted the worst index a...
l The Jackets are finishing another back-to-back series at home tonight against the Nashville Predators. The Predators are a very offensive team with the coaching system they have in place, and as a result are one of the best teams in the division. As for the Jackets, they are still rebounding from a poor start and are getting better under John Tortorella. This is t...
l The Jackets are finishing another back-to-back series at home tonight against the Nashville Predators. The Predators are a very offensive team with the coaching system they have in place, and as a result are one of the best teams in the division. As for the Jackets, they are still rebounding from a poor start and are getting better under John Tortorella. This is t...
l The Jackets are finishing another back-to-back series at home tonight against the Nashville Predators. The Predators are a very offensive team with the coaching system they have in place, and as a result are one of the best teams in the division. As for the Jackets, they are still rebounding from a poor start and are getting better under John Tortorella. This is t...
l The Jackets are finishing another back-to-back series at home tonight against the Nashville Predators. The Predators are a very offensive team with the coaching system they have in place, and as a result are one of the best teams in the division. As for the Jackets, they are still rebounding from a poor start and are getting better under John Tortorella. This is t...
In Kanata, Ontario, Canada, the Columbus Blue Jackets' winning streak ended as a result of a shutout by the Ottawa Senators, blanking the Columbus Blue Jackets by a final score of 3-0. In Thursday's game,Craig Anderson stopped 25 shots, and earned a .100 save percentage (100%). They got goals from Erik Karlsson (2G, 1A), and Kyle Turris (1G, 1A). They also got points fro...
Boom! Boom! Boom! Was yesterday the trade deadline with all the transactions occurring? The Jackets finally made the trade they were looking for, in a gutsy one for one trade with a talented Western Conference squad in Tennessee. To Nashville: C Ryan Johansen Ryan Johansen is an extremely talented number one center on any team in the NHL; however, he has not had...
1. Scott Hartnell for Colin Wilson will happen on trade deadline day. 2. Columbus will have a second half very much like last season's. 3. Curtis McElhinney will backup Jonas Korpisalo until Sergei Bobrovsky comes back. 4. Jared Boll will be waived and sent to the AHL. 5. Zach Werenski joins Columbus this season. 6. One or both of Dalton Prout and Jus...
(NBCSN) For the first time this season, the Columbus Blue Jackets battle the Detroit Red Wings, and face them three times in four weeks. For Columbus, this is the second of a back-to-back matchup for them. The Red Wings last played Sunday on NBCSN, and lost to the New York Rangers in overtime (1-0). Looking at the stats, this is how the Wings are doing. They hold th...
What a game on NBC Sports Network last night. Columbus gets the national spotlight, despite being defeated by the Detroit Red Wings by a final score of 2-1 in a shootout. This point means Columbus has earned points in 11 of their last 13 games, whereas Detroit inches closer to the second seed in the Atlantic Division. Detroit got their lone regulation goal in the secon...
What an awesome trade this is for both teams. Scott Hartnell scored his 100th point as a Blue Jackets prior to his departure, and he reunites alongside Ryan Johansen. Kevin Fiala is Nashville's top prospect, and replaces Marko Dano on Columbus' depth pool. Fiala has had a tough top satisfying GM David Poile, and can now do what he pleases in Columbus. Fiala and Hartnell we...
After playing back to back nights over the weekend, the Blue Jackets are back on the ice to take on Detroit, who is fighting mightily to stay in the playoffs. It feels as if there are three teams fighting for two playoff spots- Detroit; Pittsburgh; and Philadelphia. These teams last played February 23, 206 on NBCSN. The Wings came back to win in a shootout, 2-1. Ri...
Last night, the Columbus Blue Jackets upset the Detroit Red Wings by a final score of 5-3, further hurting hopes of 25 straight playoff appearances for the Wings. Detroit got all their goals in the final 30 minutes of the game. Ten minutes into the second period (10:24), Team USA forward Justin Abdelkader scored his 16th goal of the season. Gustav Nquist and Mike Green...
The home stand continues for the Columbus Blue Jackets where they battle Detroit for the third and final time of the season. These teams have met each other three times (including tonight) in the previous four weeks. The season series is tied at one game a piece. They first played on NBCSN where the Red Wings won in a shootout (2-1). In Columbus, the Jackets beat the W...
Last night, the Detroit Red Wings defeated the Columbus Blue Jackets by a final score of 3-1. Detroit got their first goal in the ten minutes from center Luke Glendening (5th of the season); Riley Sheahan and Andreas Anthansiou earned the assist. In the final frame, the Wings got two goals in five minutes. Captain Henrik Zetterberg scored his 13th goal of the season 7:...
Columbus travels to Nashville where Seth Jones is back to play the team that drafted him. The Jackets are looking to get back on track against a playoff team that will most likely play the winner of the Pacific Division. Columbus and Nashville last played each other on November 20, 2015, at Nationwide Arena. The final score of the game was 4-0. Columbus got goals from ...
The Nashville Predators and their elite defensive group dominated the Columbus Blue Jackets by a final score of 5-1. The Predators scored early and often, scoring twice in the first two frames and once in the final one. James Neal netted his 30th of the season 3 minutes in; Ryan Johansen (player to watch) and Roman Josi had the assists. At 17:33, Mattias Ekholm scored ...
Eastern Conference: Washington X-Factor - Kuznetsov, Why Ovechkin alone cannot carry a team, hes great always showed character in the playoffs and wants that cup, he needs the other Russian to prove that Russia can dominate in the playoffs and rise to the occasion for Washinton. Two .9 + pts per game over the playoffs is always better than 1. Florida - Jagr - He is the...
After years of fighting for his life, his life has ended before our eyes. For what seems to be the first time that I can remember, the NHL has lost an all time great. Maybe the greatest player to have died has done so at the age of 88. Gordie Howe's death comes out of the blue to many, but expectant and unsurprisingly to others. He has been in a battle for survival s...
After years of fighting for his life, his life has ended before our eyes. For what seems to be the first time that I can remember, the NHL has lost an all time great. Maybe the greatest player to have died has done so at the age of 88. Gordie Howe's death comes out of the blue to many, but expectant and unsurprisingly to others. He has been in a battle for survival s...
Though the Detroit Red Wings' interest in Steven Stamkos is now well-known, that's not the only upgrade general manager Ken Holland is looking to make this offseason. The Red Wings are looking to acquire a defenseman via trade, according to Helene St. James of the Detroit Free Press, and Holland has already had discussions regarding two of the biggest names available. ...
DeepFantasies writes...

Collecting Keepers

Posted Sunday | Comments 0
09/04/2016 Once in a while we will be fortunate enough to witness a goalkeeper such as Matt Murray arrive in the NHL at a very young age and make an incredible impact, circumstances can instantly create hockey heroes. All players start to hit their stride at different points in their career; a good poolie watches closely to recognize indicators. I have been intere...
With training camps officially opening up all across the league, and with the World Cup of Hockey in the semifinals, this creates an interesting scenario in Columbus. With the USA and North America guys in question of coming straight into camp or taking a couple days off, this gives the youth movement in Columbus more time to impress, besides the Traverse City Tourname...
With training camps officially opening up all across the league, and with the World Cup of Hockey in the semifinals, this creates an interesting scenario in Columbus. With the USA and North America guys in question of coming straight into camp or taking a couple days off, this gives the youth movement in Columbus more time to impress, besides the Traverse City Tourname...
Tonight, the Blue Jackets welcome the Nashville Predators in a highly anticipated game for the Jackets. Tonight is the preseason debut for Zach Werenski; Jack Johnson; and Brandon Dubinsky. The Jackets are 1-2-0, only beating the Bruins, and losing to the Blues twice, so they are looking to get back to 0.500 hockey. The Predators have changed their bottom six to pr...
Tonight, the Blue Jackets welcome the Nashville Predators in a highly anticipated game for the Jackets. Tonight is the preseason debut for Zach Werenski; Jack Johnson; and Brandon Dubinsky. The Jackets are 1-2-0, only beating the Bruins, and losing to the Blues twice, so they are looking to get back to 0.500 hockey. The Predators have changed their bottom six to pr...
Tonight, the Blue Jackets welcome the Nashville Predators in a highly anticipated game for the Jackets. Tonight is the preseason debut for Zach Werenski; Jack Johnson; and Brandon Dubinsky. The Jackets are 1-2-0, only beating the Bruins, and losing to the Blues twice, so they are looking to get back to 0.500 hockey. The Predators have changed their bottom six to pr...
The Columbus Blue Jackets have come back to defeat the Nashville Predators by a final score of 3-2 in overtime. The Predators got both their goals last night from defensemen, continuing to prove that's their strongest suit. In the midst of the second period, defenseman Anthony Bitetto got a power play marker with assist from Matt Carle and Pontus Aberg. In the early s...
The Columbus Blue Jackets have come back to defeat the Nashville Predators by a final score of 3-2 in overtime. The Predators got both their goals last night from defensemen, continuing to prove that's their strongest suit. In the midst of the second period, defenseman Anthony Bitetto got a power play marker with assist from Matt Carle and Pontus Aberg. In the early s...
The Jackets travel south to Tennessee to take on the Predators in the Bridgestone Arena. Here are the projected rosters: Nashville Predators Colton Sissons Mike Fisher Craig Smith James Neal Calle Jarnkrok Mikka Salomaki Fredrick Gaudreau Viktor Arvidsson Vlaidslav Kamenev Austin Watson Kevin Fiala Ryan Johansen Anthony Bitetto Yannick Weber...
The Jackets travel south to Tennessee to take on the Predators in the Bridgestone Arena. Here are the projected rosters: Nashville Predators Colton Sissons Mike Fisher Craig Smith James Neal Calle Jarnkrok Mikka Salomaki Fredrick Gaudreau Viktor Arvidsson Vlaidslav Kamenev Austin Watson Kevin Fiala Ryan Johansen Anthony Bitetto Yannick Weber...
The Jackets travel south to Tennessee to take on the Predators in the Bridgestone Arena. Here are the projected rosters: Nashville Predators Colton Sissons Mike Fisher Craig Smith James Neal Calle Jarnkrok Mikka Salomaki Fredrick Gaudreau Viktor Arvidsson Vlaidslav Kamenev Austin Watson Kevin Fiala Ryan Johansen Anthony Bitetto Yannick Weber...
Last night, the Columbus Blue Jackets defeated the Nashville Predators by a final score of 3-2 in overtime. The Predators had goals both goals in the second half of the game. Their first goal came from newcomer P.K. Subban; the shorthanded tally was assisted by winger Kevin Fiala. The third period goal came from winger Victor Arvidsson; this goal was assisted by defens...
Last night, the Columbus Blue Jackets defeated the Nashville Predators by a final score of 3-2 in overtime. The Predators had goals both goals in the second half of the game. Their first goal came from newcomer P.K. Subban; the shorthanded tally was assisted by winger Kevin Fiala. The third period goal came from winger Victor Arvidsson; this goal was assisted by defens...
The Columbus Blue Jackets are back on the ice tonight to take on the Detroit Red Wings, in their final game in the Joe Louis Arena. The Blue Jackets history with the Red Wings has been short as they were an expansion franchise, but the Jackets do have some history at the Joe. They are 12-24-5 all time in the Joe, and they played each other so much over the years as a resul...
The Columbus Blue Jackets held on to defeat the Detroit Red Wings by the final score of 3-2 in overtime. The Red Wings opened the scoring in the early portion of the first period by defenseman Nick Jensen. The bottom pairing defenseman scored his second goal of the season. Dylan Larkin and Riley Sheahan had the assists. Brandon Dubinsky evened the game with his seven...
The Columbus Blue Jackets held on to defeat the Detroit Red Wings by the final score of 3-2 in overtime. The Red Wings opened the scoring in the early portion of the first period by defenseman Nick Jensen. The bottom pairing defenseman scored his second goal of the season. Dylan Larkin and Riley Sheahan had the assists. Brandon Dubinsky evened the game with his seven...
The Columbus Blue Jackets are back on home ice tonight to take on the Detroit Red Wings. The Red Wings have suffered a tragic loss over the past 24 hours with the death of their owner, Mike Ilitch, at the age of 87. The long-time owner brought the Red Wings to the promise land, being at helm of four Stanley Cup victories, and helping management develop players the righ...
The Columbus Blue Jackets are back on home ice tonight to take on the Detroit Red Wings. The Red Wings have suffered a tragic loss over the past 24 hours with the death of their owner, Mike Ilitch, at the age of 87. The long-time owner brought the Red Wings to the promise land, being at helm of four Stanley Cup victories, and helping management develop players the righ...
The Columbus Blue Jackets held on to defeat the Detroit Red Wings by the final score of 2-1 in regulation. Boone Jenner opened the scoring with his 10th goal of the season. Brandon Dubinsky got the lone assist. Thomas Vanek evened the score at 1-1 with his team’s only goal in the matchup. The power play goal was his 14th goal of the season. Henrik Zetterberg and Da...
The Columbus Blue Jackets held on to defeat the Detroit Red Wings by the final score of 2-1 in regulation. Boone Jenner opened the scoring with his 10th goal of the season. Brandon Dubinsky got the lone assist. Thomas Vanek evened the score at 1-1 with his team’s only goal in the matchup. The power play goal was his 14th goal of the season. Henrik Zetterberg and Da...
derfmred writes...

Habs View From The Rock : 2

Posted Tuesday | Comments 0
Well it has been a very long time since I have done this, I always have good intentions but four kids and a job kind of cut into my blogging time. But here I go again, I will try to do this once a week at least and who knows maybe some day someone will read this. Well it is a day before the trade deadline and the Habs have some work to do. Work that is going to be hard ...
Leafs take on the wings tonight Andersen will start for the leafs he has played 52 games as of tonight some may wonder if the netminder is burnt out playing more games then expected as he faces a well rested petr Mrazek the last 10 of 18 games on the leafs schedule is at home and its not easy feat 8 of the games are against teams that are either trying tk keep the leafs ou...
Statsking32 writes...

Leafs hold on for 2 points

Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
The leafs looked like it was a easy stomp of the wings last night but little did they know the wings would stirm back in the 2nd and almost tie in the thirs but Andersen stayed sharp even thou the D wasnt quite effective anyways leafs take 2 crucial points goodluck against phili tomorrow Go Leafs Go
After the last two games – giving up 13 goals while scoring only a couple – there’s really not much to say about the Sharks right now. I half-joked about bringing the Barracuda up en masse in my last post, but now I say, what can it hurt? I’ll be posting a piece on Marc Edouard Vlasic soon but I’m going to have to pre-empt myself by suggesting that if the Shar...
It was old, but it was loved. It was beat-up, but we cherished every moment. It was ugly, but my God was it beautiful. The Joe Louis Arena embodied the true spirit of the hard-working, self-reviving city that it represented. It wasn’t just the home of the Red Wings, nor did it just reside in Detroit. The Joe Louis Arena was Detroit. When it opened in 1979, it was nothing...
archromat writes...

How Each Team Can Win The Cup

Posted Wednesday | Comments 1
Every year the media comes up with all these story-lines for the teams that eventually do succeed as if everyone should have known all along that they were going to. During Anaheim's miraculous 2003 run, it was that they won a lot of one goal games so they were used to playing under pressure. Some of the biggest miracle runs was not that one, but rather the Kings in 2012...
rebel_deucer writes...

Second Round Predictions

Posted Wednesday | Comments 2
5-3 in the first round decent predictions. Best one is predicting the leafs to make a series with the caps but still ultimately lose. Western Preds Over Blues in 5 This was a toss up but the blues are not paying to their capabilities and the preds have decent forward and the BEST defense in all of the playoffs and a streaky goaltender. Oilers Over Ducks in 6 I a...
THE DEBATE – Hockey Podcast | Episode 23 2018 Stanley Cup Preview and Predictions Debate 1 |2017-2018 Regular Season Prediction Recap Debate 2 |2018 Western Conference Stanley Cup Playoff Preview/Predictions Debate 3 |2018 Eastern Conference Stanley Cup Playoff Preview/Predictions Brad Burud and Blake Friars are pumped and ready to get the Stanley Cup Playof...
Zak MacMillan writes...

CBJ-- Crunch Time

Posted Wednesday | Comments 1
29 August, 2018 Hello Hockeyverse. I know it has been so long since I have last blogged, but now I have come back, with more rest and focus on getting the best work to you guys possible. However, I am looking this year to continue my work with more than just the Blue Jackets, focusing on the entire league, and the other minor and developmental leagues. Today, I will...
BiggE writes...

18-19 Predictions

Posted Wednesday | Comments 0
First off, lets rejoice, it's finally hockey time again!! - Here is one man's pick for the final 18-19 NHL standings (*wildcards): EAST Atlantic 1. Tampa 116 2. Toronto 113 3. Boston 105 4. Florida* 96 5. Buffalo 86 6. Ottawa 80 7. Montreal 78 8. Detroit 72 Metro 1. Pittsburgh 105 2. Philadelphia 101 3. Washington 100 4. Columbus* 97 5. Carolina 89 6...
Brad Burud and Blake Friars are back for season two of THE DEBATE Hockey Podcast. The 31st episode is all about predictions and the NHL season ahead. They breakdown and debate which NHL teams are on the move up and which are on the move down. Then they talk Eastern and Western Conference and give you insight on who will win each division and most importantly the Stanley...
A few days ago, I predicted the sharks would miss the playoffs in 2019. I felt that Chicago would push up and have a comeback season after a disaster 2018 and that Colorado would have the other spot due to their young guys stepping up and Grubauer taking half the starts with Colorado's current starter Semyon Varlamov. But as off today, Multiple reports have said that th...
Training camps for all 31 teams have opened up, with tryouts signed; players dealt; extensions handed out; and new faces coming aboard across the entire league. For the Blue Jackets. The Jackets have one of the youngest rosters in the entire league, with plenty of open spots. One big spot to look up front is third/fourth line center. The Jackets have three centers figh...
Wh Keep Panarin is a Bad Idea It was announced earlier today by TSN's Darren Dreger that the Blue Jackets have no interest in trading winger Artemi Panarin. Dreger added they were working to continue convincing him to stay with the team for the long haul. Panarin is a pending free agent, and is making $6 million dollars this season, and will seek a bigger raise on a new...
October 15,2018 Written by: Zak MacMillan The Tampa Bay Lightning routed the Columbus Blue Jackets by the final score of 8-2! AH! WHAT DOES THIS MEAN??? Is it the end? Call for a shakeup! Deal the rentals! No no, stay calm. It's just one game against one of the top teams. First, let's go over the results, then analyze. Starting in the first, the past came back to...
[b]Leafs are A Mess! A Shakeup Is Needed![/b] Since the Toronto Maple Leafs finally were able to sign William Nylander to a deal, this club has instantly turned into a mess. A bad mess; whereas before the Nylander signing things were a good mess. [b]Both Auston Matthews and William Nylander Hurting the Team, Nowhere Near 100%[/b] I think the deal for Nylander is f...
It has been a rough stretch in Motown. It is reminiscent of “Casey at the Bat”, a favorite childhood story. Casey could never strike out. He gets cocky and then boom, “There is no joy in Mudville, mighty Casey has struck out”. In relevant terms to Wings fans, “There is no joy in Motown, the (once) mighty Red Wings have struck out”. For the first time in decades...
If you tuned into the buzz cast today https://youtu.be/W6ovFCy8REs there was some speculation regarding Jake Gardiner, and where he’ll end up. Buffalo, Montreal, even Pittsburgh seem like realistic landing places. And then, Detroit was mentioned. I cringed. Not because he wouldn’t make us better, Gardiner is a significant upgrade to our D. No, because as this ship slow...
After Steve Yzerman’s first draft as Detroit’s General Manager, you started to hear a theme. All of this year’s picks had “high compete levels”. Starting with Moritz Seider at 6th overall, Yzerman and company put their signatures on this team’s future. This feels oddly Babcockian in nature, as that is still the drum he beats in Toronto. On a Maple Leafs te...
If you listened to the hockeybuzz podcast https://youtu.be/A7YJm5TQ2hU today (8/13) you may have heard something bizarre at around the 45 minute mark. Ek did me the world’s biggest solid and actually read part of my blog! I was shocked and delighted. My poor wife of almost 20 years (this Thursday the 15th) must have thought I’d received an award for my latest iTunes ...
Eklund and co broke some news for Detroit Red Wings fans near the end of the buzz cast today (8/14) First, Yzerman traded for Adam Erne. This one seems to be a head scratcher unless there is a player going out or that they plan to bury in GR. Erne still needs to sign a new deal, but Yzerman wouldn’t make the trade unless he was confident. This, to me, seems like he’s ...
At this point in the summer, before prospects tournaments and training camps, I find myself pouring over Cap Friendly. Just for fun. Nerdy, time consuming fun. As this year stands, Detroit is at 47 contracts and 4 mil under the cap. Factor in Zetterburgh and Franzen on LTIR and it’s more like 14 mil. Enough contract space and cap space to sign a college free agent or tak...
The obvious answer is, of course. Trades can always happen, especially at the deadline when I expect the Wings to be out of contention. More pressing, however, is can Steve Yzerman make a significant move that will raise up the entire organization? This is one of those trades that will cost you. Someone is going to head out that could potentially become a difference maker...
In my last blog [/url]https://my.hockeybuzz.com/blog.php?post_id=18273&user_id=260089 I looked at possible trades based on strong performances. While I’m not eager to see it ever happen, Athanasiou could be the strongest piece Steve Yzerman could part with to bring in a young defenseman who could help the team moving forward. I have a feeling this will be a career y...
A really good buzz cast this morning with Kevin Allen in tow. At 54:46, a question came in from a viewer named Lance regarding a potential Athanasiou trade for Ristolainen. Mike Augello commented on rumors of a Mantha for Ristolainen rumor that never came to fruition. The hypothetical cost for Zach Werenski would be Dylan Larkin, and that won’t happen. rnrnRistolainen is...
On the buzzcast today (8/21) Ek broke news that Derek Brassard may be going to Edmonton. Later, a different rumor came out that puts Brassard on Long Island. I’m hoping for the latter, and here’s why. I still don’t understand a couple of moves made by Steve Yzerman. Forget about Moritz Seider, that kid may end up being really good. For me, Valterri Filppula doesn�...
Along with everyone else my eyebrows raised at Ek’s Friday rumor https://www.hockeybuzz.com/blog/Eklund/Rumor-WingsSabres-Talking-Major-Trade-e4-Update-5-players-involved/1/101066rnrnIn part, because I’ve been wondering about a scenario that would bring Ristolainen to Detroit. I believe with Kaski on the way, the signing of Filppula and some culture changes that the Sw...
Before the doors closed on Joe Louis Arena, there was still a feeling the Detroit really was “Hockeytown”. Those of us still believing in what Mike and Marian Illitch had built and looking with hope toward a team that could rise up again. But, they didn’t. The move to Little Caesars Arena was exciting, but confusing. At first, people were staying in the restaurants ...
There has been a back and forth debate on the retirement of #91. The sad part is, it isn’t merit based. It’s the burn after a bad breakup. Ken Holland help a boom box high over his head in the rain and played, “baby come back” but it turned out that all Fedorov heard was “Anthony’s song: I’m movin’ out”. Bitterness and pain. Enter Don Henley’s “Get ov...
Injuries. Every single year someone’s career gets a little derailed by getting hurt at either a prospect tournament, training camp, or in the preseason. It feels like that, anyway. The prospects tournament in Traverse City is incredible. https://www.centreice.org/page/show/467296-nhl-prospect-tournament Take a look at that schedule. In 5 days (one day off in the mid...
Last week George Malik posted an entry regarding Magnus Paajarvi. http://themalikreport.com/2019/08/30/three-things-on-prospect-tournament-rosters-magnus-paajarvi-and-kraft-hockeyville-done-well/ Gunnar Svensson, Magnus’s father and Henrik Zetterburgh’s former agent, tweeted that an invitation of some kind had been extended. Paajarvi is big, can chip in 1o goals or so...
Detroit has 14 RFAs after this season. https://www.capfriendly.com/teams/redwings 6 of 7 listed on the main roster are arbitration eligible. That helps. Three of the RFAs listed as “in the system” (Hirose, Kuffner, Kaski) are interesting cases. Hirose made an immediate impact last year. Kuffner didn’t really get going but he may have a good year as well. Oliwer Ka...
Kudos to George Malik for getting these out http://themalikreport.com/2019/09/05/some-quick-thoughts-regarding-the-red-wings-prospect-tournament-roster/ Although I’ve let it be known that I think there is too much for these prospects in terms of tourney/camp/preseason, I am excited about the actual tournament. Looking at the lineup I see Zadina, Hirose, Veleno, and Ku...
In a show of courtesy and generosity, all the games in Traverse City are being streamed this year. Click on this link: https://www.foxsports.com/southwest/story/watch-dallas-stars-compete-in-traverse-city-prospect-tournament-sept-6-10-live-streams-090519 8 teams including :Detroit, Toronto, Dallas, Minnesota, St. Louis, New York, Columbus and Chicago. Obviously I�...
The first two games were a miniature version of what I expect from the season. Chicago dominated the Wings in the first period, Wings tied it, lose in overtime. Against St. Louis the guys were clicking better and won 7-3. Flashes of hope, talent on display, and moments you want to turn it off. For the guys I wanted to see, three have really been easy to watch. First, J...
So far, the prospect’s tournament has been a breath of fresh air, for the most part. Detroit went 2-0-1 in 3 games, scoring 17 goals. A healthy dose for sure. There is, however, and “I told you so” moment for me here. Injuries. Alec Regula was taken out of last night’s game in the first period with a concussion. There was no penalty on the play, it looked like ...
This was a surprise, for sure. I like the kids we have, and like what’s coming down the pipe. Joe Veleno surprised me, and I was expecting him to be really good. In 4 games he had 7 goals and 1 assist. One goal was an empty net in game 3, but in the other three games he had 2 goals. Good grief that’s consistent. And, it’s impressive. This kid wants a job right now wi...
https://mobile.twitter.com/DetroitRedWings/status/1172156625362272256 Worth checking out. When going to camp each year (until 3 years ago when I got injured) it was always interesting to see the teams posted. It helps to have the list because the rinks (there are 2 there) will post a schedule of which team is practicing or scrimmaging, etc. Usually there was one team yo...
The Red and White game yesterday was fun (ish) to watch. Guys working hard to get jobs. Noticeably absent were Dylan Larkin and Mike Green. Andreas Athanasiou left about halfway through and didn’t return. Coach Blashill is calling it “tweaks” and “precautionary measures”. It leaves a bad feeling in the stomach all around. So far, we’ve seen injuries to Alec...
The Detroit Red Wings posted their projected lines on their website. They are as follows: Hirose-Rasmussen-Svechnikov Elson-Pearson-Puempel Terry-Turgeon-FordrnGlendening-DeLaRose-Ehn Nemeth-Hronek Cholowski-Bowey Hicketts-Mcllrath What to watch for (personally) - injuries. Svechnikov needs a reclamation year. Rasmussen as well. Pearson has a decent shot. Look for h...
Jeremy Laura writes...

Thoughts on Rasmussen

Posted Thursday | Comments 1
The Detroit Red Wings had back to back preseason games against the Chicago Blackhawks on Tuesday 9/17 and Wednesday 9/18. In reality, the Grand Rapids Griffins had back to back games against the Rockford Ice Hogs. In pre season play, especially early on, guys are fighting to be the last ones sent down or released from tryouts. One guy who is desperate to reverse course on ...
The weekend tilt versus the Pittsburgh Penguins (aka wilkes-barre penguins) gave Wings fans a taste of what will be the highlight of this upcoming season. The line of Larkin/Mantha/Bertuzzi seems to be well bonded and symbiotic. On a night of a 3-2 win, Mantha had 1 goal, Bertuzzi had one goal, and Larkin had 2 assists. (Madison Bowey had a phenomenal night with 1 goal and...
3 games in 3 nights. Insanity. First against the St Louis Blues for the Kraft Hockeyville game and then a home and home against Toronto. For all intents and purposes, I’m fairly certain management has seen what they need to in terms of who stays and who goes, save for Moritz Seider. He is very impressive, but may well head down to Grand Rapids due to the numbers, and it ...
I did some preseason predictions and have Mantha coming in at around 30 goals. Watching his preseason performance has been eye opening. He’s scored 4 goals in 3 games. Twice, he just fired a laser of a shot that flat out beat the goalie. His snapshot and slap shot are both way faster than I remember. Against St Louis he scored a beautiful breakaway goal. He’s battling,...
In my post last week https://my.hockeybuzz.com/blog.php?user_id=260089&post_id=18302 I wrote that I hoped the wings would go 1-1-1 in the final 3 games of preseason. They did. And, while I should feel relieved, that number was based on guessing the cycle that the team seems to go through. In short, one strong promising win is followed by a miracle effort by a goa...
Looking at the first week of action, I was trying to guess success/failure rate of the Wings early goings. Opening night against Nashville I have penned in as a loss. In Nashville, Rinne can shut you down. Duchene and RyJo up the middle can cause plenty of issues. Forsberg can be amazing, etc. Dallas could be a very similar issue. Ben Bishop does well against Detroit and t...
A giant sigh of relief came when MLive published comments saying Larkin was “a definite possibility” for Saturday’s tilt against Nashville. https://www.mlive.com/redwings/2019/10/red-wings-dylan-larkin-a-definite-possibility-for-saturdays-opener.html That is the frail state of the season. A season I, and others, expect to be rough could be disastrous if we lose an...
So, all the nay saying aside, I am excited to watch our top line tonight. Athanasiou is still not a definite so I’m counting him as “out” for tonight. Mlive penned a piece about the top line here: https://www.mlive.com/redwings/2019/10/red-wings-counting-on-top-line-to-be-one-of-leagues-elite.html When that line is clicking, they are an absolute joy to watch. ...
Of 5 goals scored for the Wings, the top line figured in on 4 of them. Bertuzzi with 2 goals and 2 assists. Mantha with 1 goal and 2 assists, Larkin with 1 goal and 1 assist, and Glendening with 1 goal and 1 assist. Jimmy Howard made 42 saves on 45 shots. That’s the key. I know this team can score, and boy they did tonight. However, scoring 5 goals on 28 shots is not...
In a quick post in October, I mentioned Detroit having a three headed monster as the top line - Larkin/Mantha/Bertuzzi. In the season opener it certainly seemed to be true. Each goal (apart from the empty net for Bertuzzi’s second) had a bit of a “wow” factor. Tic tac goal for Bertuzzi with a quick shot. Mantha weaves inexplicably through Nashville’s defense an...
It’s been a weird start to the season. Mantha has 5 goals in 2 games, and 2 assists. Those numbers are, um, healthy. And unexpected. I’m sure I underestimated big mo. https://my.hockeybuzz.com/blog.php?user_id=260089&post_id=18303 The biggest surprise to me still is his ability to weave to the net. Again, on Sunday night 10/6 Mantha weaves through the defense and ...
In the home opener at Little Caesars Arena, Trevor Daley went down in the first period with an injury. I expect a fairly regular carousel of blue line ailments this year, in keeping with what the team dealt with last year. My assumption was that Madison Bowey will get his chance to play, as he’s currently a healthy scratch. And then Yzerman made a trade. We sent Davi...
Alex Biega will get an early opportunity for some NHL action. The Wings traded for him today (10/7) and have already called him up. The blue line is down 2 with Daly and Ericsson both out. Oliwer Kaski was also brought up. This still leaves me wondering what is going on with Bowey, but part of the call up is probably to have an extra Dman available. Of interest, both of th...
According to MLive.com, Athanasiou will make his anxiously awaited debut tonight against Anaheim. https://www.mlive.com/redwings/2019/10/red-wings-welcome-back-andreas-athanasious-speed-scoring-to-lineup.html Centering a line with Glendening and Hirose. I’ve had some misgivings about Glendening’s promotion, but his effort and impact are always evident. Especially ...
Along with the excitement of Athanasiou coming back into the fold, Madison Bowey will also get the nod tonight (10/8). https://www.nhl.com/news/c-309880588 I have wondered why Bowey has been on the sidelines. To be frank, I like his skating and his game. He is exactly the kind of defenseman you want to see develop. Right shot, big body, can move the puck. Trevor Daly’...
Filip Hronek scored unexpectedly at the end of the second period. The wings took a 1 goal lead into the third period. Anaheim quickly scored to tie it up. Anthony Mantha seemed to have regained the lead, but the goal was challenged successfully for an offside. Then, Detroit fell apart. Anaheim scores 2 more in 37 seconds. It was evident that the Red Wings didn’t have the...
FoxMulder writes...

Advice to David Poile

Posted Friday | Comments 0
[img]https://www.energycentral.com/sites/default/files/styles/article_body/public/ece/nodes/338636/atomicbomb.jpg?itok=ibR5hzqc[/img]That's the blog.
The Calgary Flames dropped there third straight decision Thursday night, in a disappointing loss to the Nashville Predators. A Nashville Team that came into the game three points back of the quickly falling Flames, is now a single point back of them with two games in advantage to boot. Calgary is quickly falling behind, and unless they start playing with some urgency and h...
Once again, the Flames find themselves unable to string together some wins, and once again they lose to a team they NEED to beat. A team that is right behind them in the standings. Once again, the Flames are unable to ring in some consistency and it’s cost them another game yet again. It’s all too predictable at this point with the Flames. They win one or two row and t...
Tom Dusome writes...

31 Wacky Predictions

Posted Sunday | Comments 49
As I get my self acquainted with this new NHL I am taking a page out of Ek's book and writing some wacky predictions I think will happen this year (or like I am sure a lot of people are saying next year). I have never covered the entire league like this before. Hope you enjoy! To be clear, with in these predictions I am working in a frame work that there will be 4 div...

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