NFT: NHL Conference Finals Thread

will be interesting to see how they hang in. I think Preds did ok this year vs. Ducks, who looked like their heavy handed selves from the 2nd period on Wednesday night, Connor McDavid and his line pretty well shut down by Ducks' 2nd.

The way Pens stifled the Caps in Game 7, gosh, it would be nice to see Ottawa play them tough and redeem, in a very small way, the Rangers' very disappointing effort: who knows how well Crosby can hold up, and Pens down a couple big players on d, and Ottawa youth, it could happen.

PIT/NSH

Let's go, Preds!

In comment 13469977 ColHowPepper said:

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will be interesting to see how they hang in. I think Preds did ok this year vs. Ducks, who looked like their heavy handed selves from the 2nd period on Wednesday night, Connor McDavid and his line pretty well shut down by Ducks' 2nd. The way Pens stifled the Caps in Game 7, gosh, it would be nice to see Ottawa play them tough and redeem, in a very small way, the Rangers' very disappointing effort: who knows how well Crosby can hold up, and Pens down a couple big players on d, and Ottawa youth, it could happen.

Howdy, CHP! Yeah, Ducks started to look like their battle tested selves indeed as the series wore on. My thinking with them is it'll come down to goaltending, and Gibson hasn't given me the warm fuzzy I'd need to feel confident if I was a Ducks fan. I really think that despite the Ducks having been here before, something feels right that this may be the Preds series to win. Rinne has found his old form, the offense has been opportunistic, but the D is playing at another level right now. And I echo pj in that I'd love to see Pernell Karl win one. Always nice to see good people succeed.

As for the ECF, the OTT story/run has been great. Obviously, there's the Anderson angle (and the MacArthur return as well, not to be underestimated), but this is a balanced team up front. They roll their lines well and have guys willing to do the greasy area work with some snipers to augment their attack. Understatement to say Karlsson is really the key to their success. They'll go as far as he does. PIT always finds a way, and every time we think they're gonna suffer - let's face it, their D doesn't exactly strike fear but they just get the job done. The high end skill up front (87, 71, 81) combined with skilled agitators like Hornqvist make them formidable. Question is, do we get Flower in his current good run of play, or does he regress into the goaltender who couldn't save a beachball as we've seen in playoffs past? I still think the Pens find the way to win this series.

I'm rooting for the Pens because so many people hate Crosby.

but mostly I'm rooting for good hockey, OT's and game 7's.

my prediction is Pens Ducks but based on my success predicting so far I'd bet on Sens Preds.

Which team do you consider which?

Nashville KO'd Anaheim in 7 games last year (and then took San Jose the distance). I actually think I read somewhere Nashville is actually favored in the Series. Maybe they'll get Kerry Underwood to do a national anthem this round.

In comment 13470022 pjcas18 said:

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I'm rooting for the Pens because so many people hate Crosby.

LOL, PJ's straw man Crosby fight continues...

So my choice is easy. I try not to worry focus on the other series due to my own superstitions but I usually root base on goal tending. I think I'm am leading towards the Ducks, Nashsville is playing great hockey and I rather face Gibson over Rinne. The Oilers had a good series against the Ducks and that gives the Pens a better chance.

Either way I just want my team to win.

In comment 13470066 SteelGiant said:

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So my choice is easy. I try not to worry focus on the other series due to my own superstitions but I usually root base on goal tending. I think I'm am leading towards the Ducks, Nashsville is playing great hockey and I rather face Gibson over Rinne. The Oilers had a good series against the Ducks and that gives the Pens a better chance. Either way I just want my team to win.

Sup SteelGiant?
I agree!

Oh I've been in PIT twice the past few months, love going to the strip district on Sunday mornings.

made the playoffs much less won two playoff series. It looked like they were completely out played by BOS and NYR in most games. Nashville/Anaheim will be a fun series to watch but I really like the way Nashville is playing.

Pitt in 4
Nashville in 6

In comment 13470053 MetsAreBack said:

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In comment 13470022 pjcas18 said: Quote: I'm rooting for the Pens because so many people hate Crosby. LOL, PJ's straw man Crosby fight continues...

It's real, I'd say 50% of the hockey fans I know hate Crosby.

Obviously Rangers fan do, but Bruins fans, Capitals fans, it's pretty common.

In comment 13470066 SteelGiant said:

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Either way I just want my team to win.

I want your team to fall into a 10,000 foot crevasse in the Himalayas.

In comment 13470066 SteelGiant said:

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Either way I just want my team to win.

SteelGiant - Not sure I offered congrats to you on beating my Caps, so let me do that now. Good luck in ECF (but I do hope Ottawa wins).

and the team needs to be blown up.

They need to rebuild and get younger. I wish they could trade Ovi and Orpik. I doubt they can trade them but this team will never win with Ovi.

Keep some of the younger nucleus and that's it.

OF COURSE they can trade Ovi. 28 teams would get in line for his services.

Orpik is your Girardi - had more value before the game became more about speed. Who do you Caps fans think you'll lose in the expansion draft?

Who's going to start the first Rangers game thread next season?

What to do with Girardi and Staal?

Perfect thread to discuss these and other pressing Rangers issues.

Eat a dick, pga...

In comment 13470245 Davisian said:

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Eat a dick, pga...

York? Sargent? Nixon? Thon? So many choices. But you're welcome to tongue my grundle in the meantime, you friggin' John Denver wannabe.

Thank you for the congrats. That was a really good tough series. It always is a good one. People give the Caps a lot of crap but most of it is unjust and the situation is rough for the fans and players of this Caps team. The matchups with the Pens have all been games of inches and the Pens were cup caliber teams.

I put close to the context of Bills losing those Superbowls, they were a great team. Or here in Pittsburgh the Steelers have won their recent Superbowls with never playing New England but have lost to New England multiple times in the playoffs. Fans here complain about it all the time.
Being in that situation is a tough pill to swallow with no easy answers.

Yes the Pens have elite talent but so do the Caps. The Pens were playing like garbage until with the same stars before Sullivan was hired. He brought a lot of young players that made a huge difference. They were the ones that brought the hunger to the team. Hershey has been good for a couple years now, personally I would take a page from the Pens. Bring up some young players to replace veteran bottom 6 guys which then let's you reallocate funds to another top 6 or top 4dman. You would be surprised how much legs return to your stars in the process.

Ducks turning the puck over, but otherwise even for the most part. Really nice shot by Silfverberg to open, well played tip by Forsberg.

Yum.

In comment 13470267 SteelGiant said:

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Yes the Pens have elite talent but so do the Caps. The Pens were playing like garbage until with the same stars before Sullivan was hired. He brought a lot of young players that made a huge difference. They were the ones that brought the hunger to the team. Hershey has been good for a couple years now, personally I would take a page from the Pens. Bring up some young players to replace veteran bottom 6 guys which then let's you reallocate funds to another top 6 or top 4dman. You would be surprised how much legs return to your stars in the process.

Meh this is a bunch of crap. The Penguins have had two generational talents healthy for the last two playoff runs, and they stole Kessell last year too (I couldn't believe that trade when it happened - hard to believe no one else offered more or at least paid the guys fucking contract). By 'garbage' I guess you mean one sub 100 point season (strike year should be annualized) since 2006 and that was the year the Rangers took them out in 5 when everyone on the team got hurt (and they still took every game to one goal or OT against the presidents trophy champs that year)

They win in the playoffs because of a lot of luck (they've flat out stolen game 4s vs Washington the past two years), great goaltending, the best players in the world playing like it, and because the GM was early to recognize the game shift to speed. But mostly because of Crosby and Malkin and Kessel.

Not because of some youth movement. Crosby playing his career in that dump for half his fair market value has helped too.

The Stars gave Bishop 6 years?

Yikes.

Tied at deuces, about 10 minutes to go. I'd imagine a bit of a sprint to the finish to set the tone for the series.

2 man advantage for another minute.

Huge opp for NSH right now. Gotta get a goal.

Anaheim played that 5v3 wonderfully. Almost felt like they were at ES. Excellent kill. Missed opp for the Preds.

Survived that. Let's see if that translates to momentum.

Onto OT!

This is going to be a great series.

I didn't think I'd be able to watch just yet because I get super bitter when NYR get bounced - but I really am enjoying watching the Preds right now. This is great hockey.

That flurry at the end was exciting. Ducks had a great push. I kind of feel the Preds are gonna counterpunch. This is fun.

The Preds are a good example as to why you don't necessarily need an elite FWD to be a really good team and why I don't think the Rangers are far off.

Their blue line is superior to NYR.. but I think the Rangers FWD's are just as good and I'd take Hank over Rinne even though Fekker wouldn't.

They are really just a well-balanced, well-coached team.

Did Micheletti just call a Preds player Auston Matthews?

In comment 13470492 arcarsenal said:

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Did Micheletti just call a Preds player Auston Matthews?

Yup, Austin Watson. Slipped up.

In comment 13470493 pganut said:

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In comment 13470492 arcarsenal said: Quote: Did Micheletti just call a Preds player Auston Matthews? Yup, Austin Watson. Slipped up.

Thank you.. I thought I was imagining things. I was like.. well, there's an Austin Watson.. but I could have sworn I heard Auston Matthews.

Keith Jones also referred to a Preds player as Weber during the intermission.

In comment 13470494 arcarsenal said:

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In comment 13470493 pganut said: Quote: In comment 13470492 arcarsenal said: Quote: Did Micheletti just call a Preds player Auston Matthews? Yup, Austin Watson. Slipped up. Thank you.. I thought I was imagining things. I was like.. well, there's an Austin Watson.. but I could have sworn I heard Auston Matthews. Keith Jones also referred to a Preds player as Weber during the intermission.

They have Yannick Weber on D.

And I know CA traffic is also partly to blame, but there is an embarrassing number of empty seats tonight.

Do'h!

I forgot about him.

Now I'm the idiot.

In comment 13470496 pganut said:

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And I know CA traffic is also partly to blame, but there is an embarrassing number of empty seats tonight.

Fans in CA suck. Part of what bothered me so much about losing to LA in the SCF was all of the fairweather fans who don't really give a shit about hockey unless their team is winning.

That's 2 NSH goals in off of Ducks. Bad luck there for ANA, good on the Preds for getting pucks to the net.

Neal ends it in OT.. great game. This is going to be a fun series.

Preds in 7

I did say that have elite talent. I was comparing the penguins to the captials. The capitals have ovi, backstrom, kunetsov. I was talking about good teams, so when I said garbage I am talking by underperorming with all that elite talent.

Maybe to don't remember how bad the penguins looked under johnson. Crosby was not scoring and fans talked about trading him just like the talks about ovi. They said he just not same player, in the decline.

What about Chicago where are they? Do they not have elite talent?

I am tired of people thinking you can take great players and put them together and viola you win a cup. That is not how it works. Yes you need elite talent to get close but that does not WIN it for you.

If you want to actually take the time and watch the Penguins without your hate glasses on watch: Guentzel,Sheary,Rust,then tell me that they are not working hard winning races and making a difference.

on both moves.

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Chris Johnston‏Verified account @reporterchris 19m19 minutes ago Wingels and Dzingel replace Stalberg and Neil for #sens in Game 1.

USA beat Latvia 5 - 3. Pretty close to clinching a playoff spot. Latvia was up 2 - 0 and 3 - 1 in this game. Close game, an EN goal sealed it.

USA has earned 12 of a potential 15 points, the lone blemish is the opening round loss to Germany (the home team for their group). (3 points per regulation win, 2 points per OT/SO win, 1 point for OT/SO loss)

Russia has 14 out of 15 points, their lone "blemish" is an OT (shootout) win over Sweden.

They both have 2 more games. US plays Slovakia tomorrow and finishes up with h2h with Russia on Tuesday.

Gaudreau player of the tourney for US IMO, Panarin best player in the tourney so far.

Should be interesting to see how USA shuffles the lineup with Skjei and (?) others headed to Germany.

After he got hauled down in front of the referee: "What was That? Are you kidding me?"

And, he was right.

Pitts got away with quite a bit... but... [shrug]... fuck em, we won anyway.

Kinda weird clearly being the better team on the ice.

always takes some pressure off to win game 1 on the road.

USA up 5 - 1 on Slovakia early 3rd.

Rangers making their presence felt, Hayes had a sick assist for former linemate Johnny Gaudreau (two actually, one was highlight reel), Skjei had an assist.

Gaudreau solidifies himself up there with the best players in the tournament. Such a smart and skilled player.

Gaudreau goal from Hayes.

That's solid patience.
Link - ( New Window )

with a tip-in from Eichel. 6 - 1 USA.

The more I watch Anders Lee, that's how I feel like Hayes should play.

Just so hard to move from the front of the net, gets the greasy goals. I like him.

Hayes gets POTG in his first game. He played well.

In comment 13471085 pjcas18 said:

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with a tip-in from Eichel. 6 - 1 USA. The more I watch Anders Lee, that's how I feel like Hayes should play. Just so hard to move from the front of the net, gets the greasy goals. I like him.

Lee is easy to like. His effort is always there and likes going into the dirty areas

But the big shock was Canada losing yesterday to Switzerland yesterday, 3-2 in OT after Canada led 2-0 heading into the 3rd.

In comment 13471139 pganut said:

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But the big shock was Canada losing yesterday to Switzerland yesterday, 3-2 in OT after Canada led 2-0 heading into the 3rd.

Canada would be going for a 3-peat if they win this year and they showed the past two teams rosters. This year Canada might still be the favorite, but that roster this year is significantly lesser than the past two.

Crosby, Burns, Ekblad, Hall,Giroux, MaCkinnon,Seguin, Spezza, etc, was on the team two years ago and McDavid, Marchand, Perry, ROR, Scheifele, Dumba last year.

This year still good, but Duchene, Parayko, Giroux, etc, are the stars.

It's really wide open, the top 4 or 5 teams can all win.

They've been rolling and have looked very strong so far. I think the US will get rocked by them if they don't play their best game.

In comment 13471174 pganut said:

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They've been rolling and have looked very strong so far. I think the US will get rocked by them if they don't play their best game.

The good news is the US plays them final play-in game with a day rest for US an no rest for Russia. either way, it's all about positioning now for the US, since they clinched a playoff round berth.

I think they just need to be 1st or 2nd and avoid Canada or the Czech Republic in the QF and they should be in the semis.

a win or OT loss vs Russia clinches that or a loss of any type (Regulation or OT/SO) by Sweden.

on paper US is better than Russia.

Especially on D.

US now has Trouba, Skjei, Hanifin, McAvoy, Dekeyser, Van Reimsdyk, and Conor Murphy (team captain).

Panarin, Kucherov, ans Kuznetsov might be the best line in the tournament (if they even play together - not sure) but I think the US can hang with them if they play well.

He's been very involved. Had seen bits of the game earlier but am just settling in as ANA jumped ahead 4-3. Second just about over.

In comment 13471497 pganut said:

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He's been very involved. Had seen bits of the game earlier but am just settling in as ANA jumped ahead 4-3. Second just about over.

Rinne cannot go cold if Nashville has a chance.

In comment 13471497 pganut said:

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He's been very involved. Had seen bits of the game earlier but am just settling in as ANA jumped ahead 4-3. Second just about over.

both games so far, seems he's being targeted by the Predators, not sure what precipitated it. I like it.

His battles are fun to watch. He seems revitalized this playoff stretch.

why I would agree that Subban, though dynamic, has his warts. Rather than keeping possesion and carrying the puck deep or pulling up to create space, he opted for the flashy deke, got caught and the puck went the other way for a 2 on 1.

Giving up some chances down the stretch.

entertaining series.

In comment 13471528 pjcas18 said:

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entertaining series.

Indeed. It seemed NAS tightened up a lot way too early with that lead. Didn't play their game.

A tense tie at zeros just more than halfway through the game. Pens have had some nice sustained possessions and have narrowly missed 3 times of note of late. Anderson looking good and the Sens need to build on their possessions.

If MacArthur could have pulled off the between the legs shot after his nice steal. Pulled off too early because his momentum was already moving laterally and away.

I'm not gonna make it!!!

At the end of that period when Pitt dominated possession with fresh forwards, they never got the puck on net. Ott was GASSED.

and they're getting shots on net. let's pick it up OTT.

These Pens attacks, the Sens will hit with a surprise haymaker. But PIT has had long stretches of dictating play.

Did well to stay with that and buries the second attempt.

that sucked.

and I think Doc's replacement just had an orgasm.

has crumbled against a pressure D all period. Forced and unforced turnovers. Just 1 shot on net all period.

needs to get that shit on net.

with THREE shanks in the last 2 minutes. THREE.

One from point blank, one from the corner and the last one right in front of a sprawling Fleury.

get him off of the ice.

Long day of meetings. US beats Russia at the IIHF WC today, 5-3. Purple Hayes with 2 goals, Anders Lee with the GW PPG, and Brock Nelson with a goal and 2 assists to power the US attack.

Your Quarterfinal matchups, puck drop on Thursday:
Group A - US vs Finland, Switzerland vs Sweden
Group B - Canada-Germany, Russia-Czech Republic

Nelson and Hayes kept their production for NOW. Way to go!!!

Lee is just continuing his year.

As an Isles fan, not many players are more frustrating than Brock Nelson. So much skill, so very inconsistent.

could make his 3rd cup Final..they are up 2-1 in the series now.

Pens are depleted, Sens are buzzing.

Damnit we missed an opportunity

Wow.. Ottawa kicking the crap out of the Pens. 4-0.

MAF turned into a pumpkin.. Murray is back.

I got over literally pissing away our season because I figured Washington or Pittsburgh would make short work of us anyway

Now... Not so sure about that. Fuck you AV.

Watching this ECF as a NYR fan.

While Flower pulled his good old wilting act, Ottawa was better across the board tonight. Pens never got it going and the Sens controlled things comfortably.

I was telling you the Sens are for real. No shame in losing to that team. They have got something going on there. Can't see them beating Ducks or Preds though.

In comment 13474758 IIT said:

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I was telling you the Sens are for real. No shame in losing to that team. They have got something going on there. Can't see them beating Ducks or Preds though.

Dont want to make this a Rangers thread. But its not that they lost to them - its how they lost to them. They pissed away the series with self-imposed choking driven in large part by incompetent coaching.

Only three games in, but both Boston and the Rangers played better than the Penguins have this series. Still only half way done though a series though, they may find their groove yet.

The Preds looks bigger and faster than either team in the East. Would be weird seeing them win it, but they would appear to be the favorites right now.

The Pens sure like to whine a lot, huh?

the physicality of the Preds-Ducks series is impressive, shocking almost, the pace is fast, and hitting non-stop, and the refs don't seem overly inclined to call the games tightly. The d-men on these rosters are deep, physical, and they move well, and the forwards crash down the boards. A bit reminiscent of the Kings when they won in 2014, but faster and even more physical. Tonight's game, obviously, very big.

And, the Nashville building Tuesday night was really loud, totally pumped.

better than I expected. I thought Pitt was going to steamroll them.

In comment 13474817 Andy in Halifax said:

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Only three games in, but both Boston and the Rangers played better than the Penguins have this series. Still only half way done though a series though, they may find their groove yet. The Preds looks bigger and faster than either team in the East. Would be weird seeing them win it, but they would appear to be the favorites right now. The Pens sure like to whine a lot, huh?

yes.. the Pens take on the color of their fans. Whiny/self righteous pricks (for the most part). Which is funny..if you remember how it was before they won the lottery over and over again, they had no fans.

in the IIHF
down 1-0 with 14 mins left in the 3rd

shortly after I posted that

US has taken 5 penalties so far this game.

Having possession it seems but not getting many quality chances

In comment 13475003 feelflows said:

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In comment 13474817 Andy in Halifax said: Quote: Only three games in, but both Boston and the Rangers played better than the Penguins have this series. Still only half way done though a series though, they may find their groove yet. The Preds looks bigger and faster than either team in the East. Would be weird seeing them win it, but they would appear to be the favorites right now. The Pens sure like to whine a lot, huh? yes.. the Pens take on the color of their fans. Whiny/self righteous pricks (for the most part). Which is funny..if you remember how it was before they won the lottery over and over again, they had no fans.

Blah blah blah...like Isles fans..oxymoron?

to lose to the fuckin Fins after playing really well the last week+. Awful result.

Shut the fuck up Rover, you dupe stain. No one likes you.

In comment 13475278 Rover said:

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In comment 13475003 feelflows said: Quote: In comment 13474817 Andy in Halifax said: Quote: Only three games in, but both Boston and the Rangers played better than the Penguins have this series. Still only half way done though a series though, they may find their groove yet. The Preds looks bigger and faster than either team in the East. Would be weird seeing them win it, but they would appear to be the favorites right now. The Pens sure like to whine a lot, huh? yes.. the Pens take on the color of their fans. Whiny/self righteous pricks (for the most part). Which is funny..if you remember how it was before they won the lottery over and over again, they had no fans. Blah blah blah...like Isles fans..oxymoron?

Like Isles fans who've suffered through one of the worst 20+ years a franchise can have and still support their team?

In comment 13475281 B in ALB said:

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to lose to the fuckin Fins after playing really well the last week+. Awful result.

Too many offensive zone penalties taken.

Hopefully they can net one early on the PP

Not a real PP

5-4 with the goalie pulled

Have a nice flight home losers.

I love their roster - not perfect and probably underdogs to the Russian roster, but I love the skill they had. This can always happen in a quick tournament though, unfortunate. I was looking forward to watching them later in the tourney.

Pens can rebound.

I missed the Russia and Finland games while at a work conference.

I hate that teams can continually add to their rosters.

Not why they lost, in fact it helped the US adding Hayes (who was awesome in the games I saw, INTL play is much more suited for his style IMO) and Skjei.

just feel like the team should be the team b/c you have the preliminary round and you could be 4th place, then add some new talent for the QF's and your team is better than a 4th seed.

anyway, like I said didn't impact the US just it could eventually.

In comment 13475411 Rover said:

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Pens can rebound.

Nobody cares, clown.

They've limited the Preds and have taken away the middle of the ice. Huge shot disparity as well.

I'm not much of a believer in the crowd affecting games, but the Preds' crowd is super loud...has to be an advantage, even if just a perceived one for NSH.

I also missed the IIHF games today because of work, so I can't attest to how good or bad the US looked. All I know is we add 2 gawddamn Rangers to the team and it all went to shit. Those fuckin' guys.... ;-)

Ducks lead, 2-1 with 5 minutes to go, but the Preds are going to the PP.

For the next 90 seconds.

It's quiet now. Let's see if that finishes NSH or if they find a haymaker to throw in these last 2 minutes.

tie game

Credit Nashville for not getting deflated after the great PP chance failed. To OT we go.

Hey, look at that...

You actually can win games in OT after you give up a deflating 3rd period game-tying goal late.

Watching the Rangers this postseason, I sure as fucking shit never would have known that because it was an auto-loss every time it happened to us.

Perry throws it toward the crease from along the wing down low, deflects off of Subban's stick and in. Good series so far.

In comment 13475839 arcarsenal said:

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Hey, look at that... You actually can win games in OT after you give up a deflating 3rd period game-tying goal late. Watching the Rangers this postseason, I sure as fucking shit never would have known that because it was an auto-loss every time it happened to us.

I hear ya, but this game is so random. They get a deflection off Subban's stick and it's in. Pretty lucky.

I actually thought in the Ottawa series we responded well in OT and had a lot of chances. Game 2, Nash open net, Hayes breakaway, and others. Game 5, JT off the post, Grabner puts one in with a high stick. Just felt like we didn't get a single bounce the whole series when we needed it.

Thigh injury. Sucks.

Go figure.

Some good advice, bud...you seem a bit fixated

that being said, I'm rooting for an OTT-NAS Final.

how did I miss this. Hedman is lucky to be playing still. this was in the world cup game last week. His shield snapped - looked like it was just a shoulder to the head, not an illegal play since it seemed like Hedman initiated contact, just unfortunate (or at least somewhat fortunate)




Link - ( New Window )

by Bobby Ryan as I've seen all playoffs, and the Sens wind up with a power play.

the difference so far. He's been great so far.

on the power play?

That Hedman pic and injury is scary as shit. He's really fortunate; that could have been horrific.

Like the Kings team did 3 years ago. So much confidence in that bench right now

too many men with 30 seconds left and a 1 goal lead?

unlike the Rangers, knows how to close out a game.

Hate the result, but the last 2:30 or so was exciting to watch.

hopefully we see two game 7's.

I like the spacing, if they both go 7, there will be 1 game each night through next Thursday.

they look like they are going to repeat. Wow

out, Bernier in for ANA after a scoreless first, looks like Gibson injured on an awkward save in the first.

could be a big loss, I don't think Gibson was anything special, but neither is Bernier.

break the ice with an odd man rush/rebound.

great hustle by Montour to join the play.

tie it on a PP goal that shouldn't have been a PP

Good job by Aberg.

But it happens. Credit Nashville for playing a strong game.

As the senators get debacled. Hockey is funny. Two games ago (you can probably scroll up and see it) multiple people said "maybe some people underrated the senators. ". And maybe people did or maybe hockey is just a game of momentum where it can really carry a team.

I hope the sens win game 6 because I want to see a game 7. But maybe some people underrated the pens (like me who had them losing to the bluejackets)

They're the champs that had the second most points in the league. It was an issue of thinking Columbus was well suited for a deep playoff run, or at the very least, that this was the Capitals year.

And to be fair, Washington carried play in that series but just didn't get any bounces and yet again choked, particularly in game 4.

I thought pens would win this series in 5. It's not over yet but these last two games are what I thought this series would look like. Maybe Pitt was just really banged up and there was an emotional letdown after going 7 with the caps. But the cream is starting to rise to the top now it seems.

Of course the last time to win 7-0 was the Sharks and then they didn't win again in their series after that. But I'm betting in this case the Penguins close it out Tuesday.

In comment 13477851 MetsAreBack said:

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They're the champs that had the second most points in the league. It was an issue of thinking Columbus was well suited for a deep playoff run, or at the very least, that this was the Capitals year. And to be fair, Washington carried play in that series but just didn't get any bounces and yet again choked, particularly in game 4. I thought pens would win this series in 5. It's not over yet but these last two games are what I thought this series would look like. Maybe Pitt was just really banged up and there was an emotional letdown after going 7 with the caps. But the cream is starting to rise to the top now it seems. Of course the last time to win 7-0 was the Sharks and then they didn't win again in their series after that. But I'm betting in this case the Penguins close it out Tuesday.

I underrated the Penguins. I thought without Letang and Hagelin in and out of the lineup, Murray being out the start of the playoffs, and the other injuries they'd get rolled by CBJ.

I can't remember a goalie being as great in the regular season and so awful in the playoffs as Bobrovsky.

I probably also underrated the Senators a little, I had them beating the Bruins, but losing to the Rangers. Still think the Rangers were a better team and without a 100% Karlsson I didn't think Ottawa had much of a chance.

I was wrong, Ottawa is better than I thought, but still think MTL would have beaten them if they got past the Rangers. Just a better matchup.

hot goalies can carry teams in the playoffs, we've seen it with Rinne. He's been phenomenal. We saw it with Hank in MTL and we saw it with MAF a couple games against WAS.

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http://screengrabber.deadspin.com/todays-ottawa-pittsburgh-highlights-as-called-by-wrest-1795418603 - ( New Window )

Ducks draw back within one and are headed to the PP. Preds held in check much of the game despite the early lead.

Random thought; the Preds unis always reminded me of Sweden's jerseys (despite the Tre Kronor looking much better) and feel like a Swedish team also. Makes sense as they have 6 Swedes, most all who contribute.

I agree..loving this game. Ducks are on fire. 100MPH.

Rinne is the only reason it's not a 10-2 game

point blank. one after another..almost uncontested.

Nashville is exhausted.

A dangerous game. But funnily enough, they almost get a great opportunity when Slifverberg fell down late and turned it over in a bad spot. That's the kind of goal they'll wind up getting eventually. But the Ducks are relentless, and I think that'll pay off.

Is very different than the first version Randy Carlyle Ducks team. They just keep plugging. The game is far from over.

that goal. Chipping the puck out front while being pinched against the boards behind the net and the reach and poke popping it up off Rinne's head by Wagner.

they just kept paddling and Fowler ties it up!

I don't think that's interference, but who knows what the Toronto agenda is.

Helps take the lead back

Who'd have thought?

Ducks disorganized in their own end and it ends up in their net. Back breaker after the PP.

How someone got a catfish into the arena.

Nor do I want to know where it had been concealed for 58 minutes until now.

Congrats to Nashville on making it to the SCF.

wasn't able to go and that will certainly be one of the story lines. Ducks were the better team in this one but that means absolutely nothing.

Watching Laviolette take his 3rd of his 4 teams to the finals. Life of isles fans ugh

at the top of my list of coaches were I starting a franchise, and several people on here were anti-Lavy.

Good dude and good coach. I mentioned before his niece is on my daughters team. He invited us all out to the all-star game when it was in NSH two years ago, I had a work trip, the stories sounded like it was a great trip I wish I went.

Anyway, robbed of another game 7 these playoffs suck.

Senators better win tonight, game 7 with Crosby is better than a normal game 7.

If the Pens win, I think a NAS/PIT series would be great. I'm concerned about Rinne - I think he's really streaky and that the Pens to expose him.

Preds will probably really miss Johanson in that series, but they can still pull it out.

Go OTT tonight, though.

and 6 D are winning a cup.

Forsberg us undoubtedly elite, but he's still young. Still can't believe the Caps traded him for a bag of pucks.

Forsberg is the only one of the top 12 forwards on NSH that scares anyone (or would probably play on the Penguins first three lines).

James Neal?

I think he's a product of the defense. Doesn't mean he can't have a great game or two - he's played well this post-season.

Forsberg's great to watch. I thought for a while NAS would have been a great destination for Nash were the Rangers to trade him.

In comment 13479424 BrettNYG10 said:

Quote:

I think he's a product of the defense. Doesn't mean he can't have a great game or two - he's played well this post-season. Forsberg's great to watch. I thought for a while NAS would have been a great destination for Nash were the Rangers to trade him.

As a defenseman (only starting playing D senior year in HS and through college) I believe most goalies are a product of their D, but you cannot watch the playoffs this year and not be impressed with Rinne.

He's allowed more than 3 goals one time the entire playoffs with a .941 save %.

that's like:
2011 Tim Thomas
2012 Jonathan Quick
2001 Patrick Roy
and multiple years Dominik Hasek

I can't think of a better goalie performance (if he seals the deal and wins the cup) than those off the top of my head.

Won the Conn Smythe with a .945 sv%

.

going back to a discussion we had a week or two ago, some evidence as to why I just don't understand the perception of PK as a defensive liability. From the six games against Anaheim:



He's been fantastic this postseason, impacting the game without gaudy point totals.

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is as good as it gets. And only Ellis was a first round pick of theirs (#11 overall). Smart trades and good scouting/development

In comment 13479747 Kyle in NY said:

Quote:

going back to a discussion we had a week or two ago, some evidence as to why I just don't understand the perception of PK as a defensive liability. From the six games against Anaheim: He's been fantastic this postseason, impacting the game without gaudy point totals.

I don't know what any of those stats mean, he gives up odd-man rushes every game or attempts offensive zone plays that lead to odd-man rushes, he turns the puck over in the defensive zone every game and he skates the puck out of the zone more than he should.

Plus, when talking PK Subban let's not pretend he doesn't have a reputation as an embellisher. any time MTL played the Rangers I heard it multiple times, every game, and he's already been fined for it these playoffs with NSH, but now all of a sudden on stigma-less Nashville he's beloved saint PK? Not part of the Canadian dive team? Sure.

he's a fantastic player and for the millionth time it was a bad trade I've lamented since they made it, but with the good comes the bad. If you don't see any of the things I'm talking about when you watch him play then we can agree to disagree.

In comment 13479749 Greg from LI said:

Quote:

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and don't forget they traded Seth Jones for a player whose out for the playoffs (so they're not even getting a contribution from him).

Poile is a good GM.

But I'd honestly rather have Columbus D I think (for the long-term).

and I'm not commenting on the trade, just presenting some evidence for my case. Thought you might find it interesting.

I think you know what those numbers mean, but in case you really don't. Essentially they mean he's excellent at denying clean zone entries, a key driver for possession. He often either breaks the play up at the line or forces a dump in, a low precentage play for the offense. He allowed the fewest clean zone entries of any Nashville defensemen in that series, and as we've discussed, they have a lot of good defensemen.

Sure, he will turn the puck over trying to do too much at times. But I'll exchange a turnover here or there for the many great plays he'll make in between to drive possession. Look at the giveaway leaders in the league (linked below), there's a lot of really good players at the top of that list (Karlsson, Burns, Doughty, etc.). Because they constantly have the puck on their stick and they're trying to make plays happen as opposed to harmlessly clearing the puck like a Dan Girardi. For the record, Subban was 68th in giveaways this season
Link - ( New Window )

But not a lot behind them. Ryan Murray has been a disappointment. I think it's Nashville and Anaheim at the top of the defense rankings. Anaheim probably has more depth but they'll lose someone this offseason because they're locked into Bieksa

Either way, you're getting something good.

My eternal memory of David Poile comes from when he was the Caps' GM in the 80s and 90s. He used to do a little call-in show between periods on HTS Caps' broadcasts, and people would call in and just rip him to pieces. He was so mild-mannered about it while continually getting insulted. It was so awkward yet hilarious, and he subjected himself to it for years!

They can't keep all their defensemen. I'd love to snag Cody Manson.

every game in the series and almost every game of the playoffs, and Subban is IMO playing like the 3rd best defenseman on NSH.

Josi and Ellis both stand out to me as better all around than Subban.

Ekholm is not far behind Subban either. It is correct, NSH D is legit top 2 or 3 in the NHL. At least the top 4.

I like Subban, and I disagree with any metric than doesn't acknowledge his defensive shortcomings. I've watched him play for 6+ years almost every game and a lot of games this year.

In comment 13479803 Greg from LI said:

Quote:

They can't keep all their defensemen. I'd love to snag Cody Manson.

Yeah I'm all for this. Manson, Montour, or the dream scenario in Vatanen. Makes a lot of sense with their depth of RHD. Hopefully them falling short again and the expansion crunch they're facing has them looking to deal

seems to be leaning on the Ekholm/Subban pair more than Josi/Ellis lately

and Jones are both under 23 years old.

Heck Werenski is 19.

That alone makes them more valuable to me than NSH top 2, who are all mid to late 20's. And I love Seth Jones as the big two-way RD. Becoming such a rarity in the NHL. Plus, not going to lie I have an affinity for the American players, so I tend to rate them higher.

I like Gabriel Carlsson, another youngster to join their top 6 next year.

Jack Johnson isn't Jack Johnson from a few years ago, but at 30 or 31 he's still top 6 quality.

Either way I won't debate who is first or second or third, I like the way CBJ is building their D and I liked Johanssen, but I'd trade him for Seth Jones in a heartbeat. I think both sides got what they wanted in that trade.

from ANA I'd do it in a second.

he and Theodore both stood out to me. I like Theodore's size better.

Even Fowler, whose name is always on the block (even more since they signed Lindholm to the LT deal) looked better to me than in the past.

Which is fine, it's clearly the most difficult position to evaluate, experienced GMs still fail at it often. No one right way to do it

Like I don't think Jack Johnson was ever good. Obviously our opinions on PK differ in addition to a few others. Not a big deal, I thought some of those numbers from the Anaheim series would help you see the light though!

No disagreement on Werenski/Jones though. I'm fortunate to be in Columbus and get to see a good bit of those two. Probably the best pairing of U23 guys in the league. I don't think either side would reverse the Jones/Johansen trade which is pretty interesting. Don't often see that.

I think good enough in fact that he'll finally come off the trade block. He and Lindholm seem locked in there. Theodore is solid but we need RHD, so I'm more interested in the other 3. Manson has the size but Montour's skating ability stood out to me. Wonder if they'd be interested in Hayes

In comment 13479843 Kyle in NY said:

Quote:

I think good enough in fact that he'll finally come off the trade block. He and Lindholm seem locked in there. Theodore is solid but we need RHD, so I'm more interested in the other 3. Manson has the size but Montour's skating ability stood out to me. Wonder if they'd be interested in Hayes

Fowler is a UFA after the season, in an off-season where I'm pretty sure Shattenkirk is going to be massively overpaid I'd try and strike a deal/extension for Fowler.

but if I could get Montour or Theodore in that trade I'd prefer them, say the Ducks want to extend Fowler, but I think they'd cost more.

If I'm the Rangers I'd explore a Dougie Hamilton for Hayes or Trouba for Hayes trade.

Hamilton is under contract 4 more years and has no trade restrictions.

Problem is neither the Jets or Flames are loaded on the blue line like NSH and ANA. and both are well stocked at forward with high end talent.

Hard to believe Dougie Hamilton is still 23 years old. Seems like he's been in the league a long time already.

My comments about Jack Johnson were to the Bluejackets depth and he played well in the playoffs. I think he'll be out of their top 4 next year. and for top 6, he's good. He's only under contract one more year. I wonder if they even protect him.

In comment 13479560 pjcas18 said:

Quote:

In comment 13479424 BrettNYG10 said: Quote: I think he's a product of the defense. Doesn't mean he can't have a great game or two - he's played well this post-season. Forsberg's great to watch. I thought for a while NAS would have been a great destination for Nash were the Rangers to trade him. As a defenseman (only starting playing D senior year in HS and through college) I believe most goalies are a product of their D, but you cannot watch the playoffs this year and not be impressed with Rinne. He's allowed more than 3 goals one time the entire playoffs with a .941 save %. that's like: 2011 Tim Thomas 2012 Jonathan Quick 2001 Patrick Roy and multiple years Dominik Hasek I can't think of a better goalie performance (if he seals the deal and wins the cup) than those off the top of my head.

I did a poor job of explaining myself. I think Rinne is playing great outside of a few spots here and there. But I don't think he's up there with the guys you mentioned because his defense is that good. Tim Thomas, Hasek, etc.

I also think he's a bit more vulnerable than the guys you listed above. I can see the Pens roasting him. He over-commits a lot and leaves juicy rebounds.

In comment 13479803 Greg from LI said:

Quote:

They can't keep all their defensemen. I'd love to snag Cody Manson.

Josh - good job of keeping us on our toes.

I always get Josh Manson and Cody Franson mixed up for some reason.

Both teams had chances, both goalies made the saves. 0 - 0 after 1.

that was, quality all around, in the net, the d, some giveaways....
sheesh, Pens are so dangerous behind the net.

(Can see the Blueshirts applying some pressure by the forwards against these teams, but predominantly, can see their d-men collapsing--structure, said Sweden's winning team keeper Henrik--and just plain not able to keep pace, position, or puck control against either of these teams)

But somehow I see Pens' offensive firepower prevailing here

for MAB and the comment on "upstarts", Preds with the fewest points in regular season of any of the playoff teams, so, yeah.

McKayla??? What a pair, power boggling in that cleavage...but what brought that about??????????

the ref can't possibly have seen that puck

Daley pushed Anderson into the goal and then shot the puck in. I think it counts, but could go either way.

.

thought it was going to be close, but slightly surprised.

Now, here is what I don't get, goalie interference is a penalty, if they disallow a goal because of goalie interference, why no penalty? if the contact was incidental then it should be a goal. NHL needs to fix this.

effort by Malkin there.

In comment 13480232 pjcas18 said:

Quote:

thought it was going to be close, but slightly surprised. Now, here is what I don't get, goalie interference is a penalty, if they disallow a goal because of goalie interference, why no penalty? if the contact was incidental then it should be a goal. NHL needs to fix this.

Yeah I thought the goal would stand too, but anything that hurts the Pens is fine with me! Malkin made Anderson and the defense look silly on his goal though.

made two saves on Crosby attempts that are normally goals. He's keeping it close, but Murray is picking up his D too.

No idea what Maata was trying to do on that TO, I think Brassard has a broken hand and couldn't handle the pass or it's a tap in goal.

and patience on the 5 on 3, OTT ties it up.

Still a min plus of PP time.

so far.

has been great. 2 minutes from a game 7.

Thursday. great game. Anderson was incredible.

Clearly Pitt is the better team now - further injuries to Karlsson, Brassard and a few others this round have just made it too tough to keep up with them. Credit to Pitt for tweaking and taking advantage of two season long weaknesses for Ottawa. They turned to the cycle game and on the forecheck they force the Ottawa D to reverse direction. That makes the slower Ottawa D even slower and has allowed Pitt to have incredible zone time after the third game. Ottawa had better structure last night but Pitt still had several great chances.

Anderson will have to be great again in game 7 for Ottawa to have a chance. Last change will be huge I expect, Ottawa has half a roster at half strength. Pittsburgh just has too many weapons to throw out there against us. But one game, if we score first you never know.

almost as impressive as his forehand-to backhand-to forehand to shovel it home just beyond Anderson's skate was his forechecking behind the net, corralling the puck, fending off the fierce check of ? as he bulled his way along the boards, maintains control against tight physical checking as he spins 180 to come out in front of the crease and then, as in one motion, reverses direction across the crease with his stick magic ....
a goal for the ages

Anderson's ability to see and position himself as the Pens, and esp. Crosby as pj noted above, were pretty darn good, but beyond that close-in pressure, Pens didn't seem to be able to go high for the corners. Anderson's glove is really quick in and around his body

Karlsson really hurting, his face after that uncalled cross-check against the far boards, ouch, series of attrition

one thing I've noticed about Predators, especially on their home ice, they are really, really good at using the boards in their passing game, all three zones

may not be quite the same since Karlsson is among the Sens injured, but the Penguins were playing without 5 regulars last night including their top 2 defensemen.

Letang
Schultz
Hornqvist
Kuhnacki
Ruhwedel

all out all contributors all season.

I get the Penguins are a better team all players being healthy, but I wouldn't use the injury card as a Senators fan.

In an NHL game 7 anyone can beat anyone.

I was waiting for the Pens to score with the goalie pulled.

I'm excited for a good game 7, and hopefully a win for Andy!!!

Only matter of factly - if Ottawa is to beat Pitt this series, I think we had to be quite a bit healthier than them. They are a more skilled team with lots of speed and two elite C's. Now that that edge we had early has evened out or reversed, especially with Karlsson even more banged up than the Rangers series, I see Pitt with a clear edge for game 7 at home. Daley has been a big boost to Pitt. They gets pucks out much easier now and Ottawa struggles to do the same. Ottawa hung on as much as they could last night with matchups and protecting some players - they can't really do that on the road.

But of course anything can happen in game 7, Anderson just stole game 6. It could happen again. But any objective viewer probably has Pitt as a big favorite Thursday night. They are a great team - well coached and talented, despite being a bunch of douches.

Btw- kudos to pj for still posting. After saying the Rangers were going to roll over Ottawa after game 3 in that series I figured you'd be a bit less opinionated... ;)

Enjoys jinxing the Rangers. Been doing it for years (he is also responsible for repeatedly having Staal on the ice late in games with leads). Rather than mocking him you should be thanking him. His comments turned the series

In comment 13480473 Andy in Halifax said:

Quote:

Only matter of factly - if Ottawa is to beat Pitt this series, I think we had to be quite a bit healthier than them. They are a more skilled team with lots of speed and two elite C's. Now that that edge we had early has evened out or reversed, especially with Karlsson even more banged up than the Rangers series, I see Pitt with a clear edge for game 7 at home. Daley has been a big boost to Pitt. They gets pucks out much easier now and Ottawa struggles to do the same. Ottawa hung on as much as they could last night with matchups and protecting some players - they can't really do that on the road. But of course anything can happen in game 7, Anderson just stole game 6. It could happen again. But any objective viewer probably has Pitt as a big favorite Thursday night. They are a great team - well coached and talented, despite being a bunch of douches. Btw- kudos to pj for still posting. After saying the Rangers were going to roll over Ottawa after game 3 in that series I figured you'd be a bit less opinionated... ;)

LOL, touch�.

I'm the first to admit when I'm wrong, especially in sports, and it won't be the last time. I was wrong.

I don't know I've seen a team look so bad one game and good the next game as the Senators in these playoffs. I'm not sure if it's a good or bad thing.

Ottawa just looks spent to me. Happy to be wrong in this case. Hope I'm wrong again.

But I will disagree with you about looking so bad then turning it around the next game. This year has been unusual in that regard, it's like a theme of these payoffs or something. I am probably missing a few but off the top of my head:

SJ crushed Edmonton 7-0, then lost the next game and series.
Edmonton beat Anaheim 7-1, then lost game 7 two nights later
NYR whooped Ottawa 4-1 in games 3 and 4, then lost the next game and series.
Washington beat Wash 5-2 (was worse than that score), then wins game 7.
Pitt embarrasses Ottawa 7-0, Ottawa wins game 6.

Why can't the Sens sell out, by the way?

that has been us all season long. Win a bunch of close games, look good doing it, then forget how to play and get blown out. It's why I didn't really put much weight into the goal differential coming into the playoffs, and that theme continued each round. 1 or 2 stinkers a series, then play well for the rest.

They went up 2-0 in game 5 in the first 5 minutes.

And of course blew 3 goals worth of leads with 4 total minutes to go in two games.

Fuck hockey. Still bitter. Fuck AV for playing shitty vets and fuck sather for signing them in the first place

where a LOT of people (federal gov't employees) went without being paid for quite a while due to system error. Money is tight in Ottawa right now according to my friends still there.

It's been a long run for the Sens, and the CFL team had a long run as well. A lot of people just can't afford to go right now. $120 for the top row is a lot in Ottawa. That price usually gets you a great seat in that arena. The rink is also a disaster to get to through the week and the later starts make public transport an issue. It's weak - it should be sold out - but there are a lot of reasons why it's only 98% sold out for game 6 of the ECF.

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In comment 13480513 Andy in Halifax said:

Quote:

Ottawa just looks spent to me. Happy to be wrong in this case. Hope I'm wrong again. But I will disagree with you about looking so bad then turning it around the next game. This year has been unusual in that regard, it's like a theme of these payoffs or something. I am probably missing a few but off the top of my head: SJ crushed Edmonton 7-0, then lost the next game and series. Edmonton beat Anaheim 7-1, then lost game 7 two nights later NYR whooped Ottawa 4-1 in games 3 and 4, then lost the next game and series. Washington beat Wash 5-2 (was worse than that score), then wins game 7. Pitt embarrasses Ottawa 7-0, Ottawa wins game 6.

Ottawa was involved in more of those games than other teams it seems. Even in some of the games the Senators won in the Rangers series I don't think they looked that good, when you have two wins that rely on additional attackers to tie the game, that's some fortunate horsheshoe up your ass type salvaging of games. and I don't mean that to take credit away from the Senators, but the extra man goal is not something that happens every game.

I think the stats are something like pulling the goalie in the 90 second range you have a 15% chance of tying the game. The Rangers had it done to them I believe 3 times in 12 games.

or still too soon?

In comment 13480547 Andy in Halifax said:

Quote:

or still too soon?

We can laugh about the 1997 ECF, anything after that is just offensive.

because you were like -3 years old

I went to the game where Gretzky scored his hat trick against the Panthers.

played, every bit as good if not better than 1994 or the 1996 World Cup. He carried them against a far superior team.

People think that Lundqvist gets hung out to dry by his defense? It's nothing compared to what Richter faced in the last 5 years or so of his career. His career numbers don't reflect how good he truly was as a result. He was a bit streaky, but when he was really on there was no one short of Hasek who I'd rather have.

I also think it's absurd Curtis Joseph isn't in.

He's probably hoping Henrik never wins one...haha

In comment 13480622 BrettNYG10 said:

Quote:

I also think it's absurd Curtis Joseph isn't in.

Please tell me what advanced stat makes Cujo a HOF goalie? I assume it's some analytic or advanced stats because he has no vezinas, no rings, no leading the league in GAA, once leading the league in save %, never led the league in wins.

The goalies of that era in the HOF so far are Belfour, Roy, and Hasek. If there was a hall of good he might get in, but he's nowhere near those three.

Osgood did. Was a Vezina finalist multiple times.

The lack of Vezina doesn't bother me - Lundqvist would still be a HOFer even if he didn't win one.

In comment 13480669 BrettNYG10 said:

Quote:

Osgood did. Was a Vezina finalist multiple times. The lack of Vezina doesn't bother me - Lundqvist would still be a HOFer even if he didn't win one.

HOF is subjective obviously, but in order to get in to the HOF IMO, you need really three things: stats, accolades (Vezina, AS, etc.), and achievements (rings)

if you're missing one of the three the other two need to be off the charts, if you're missing two, that remaining one has to be so far beyond everyone else you're a no-brainer.

CuJo is missing two of the three.

Hank has two of the three.

.

Belfour and Joseph have identical career save%, and Belfour played for better teams.

In comment 13480755 Greg from LI said:

Quote:

Belfour and Joseph have identical career save%, and Belfour played for better teams.

Belfour has two vezinas, rookie of the year, multiple jennings awards and a cup.

like I said CuJo has one of three HOF components (Stats), Belfour has all three. Not to mention Belfour led the NHL in GAA multiple times and save % multiple times as well as shutouts.

Ottawa all time 0 - 5 in game 7's.

Matt Cullen, "the new mr game 7 now that Justin Williams lost?" 6 - 0 in game 7's.

So only a 20 game difference. Yet, Joseph faced 4300 more shots in his career. Team quality helps.

You're not wrong, the numbers are what they are.

Can't say I expected Matt Cullen to be 5-0 in career game 7's.

I think Pitt has a dismal record in game 7's after losing game 6, or some other obscure stat I will cling to for the next 30 hours.

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In comment 13480791 Greg from LI said:

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.

Still has wheels too and decent on the dots and PK

In comment 13480789 Andy in Halifax said:

Quote:

Can't say I expected Matt Cullen to be 5-0 in career game 7's. I think Pitt has a dismal record in game 7's after losing game 6, or some other obscure stat I will cling to for the next 30 hours.

Cullen is 6 - 0 after the Caps series.

Hagelin is 8 - 1, but he's lost (with the Rangers I believe), so no streak to break, just a good record.

the Pens lost game 6 to the Caps and then won, but I agree they didn't have a good track record of it before that game.

Nothing better than game 7's.

In comment 13480763 pjcas18 said:

Quote:

In comment 13480755 Greg from LI said: Quote: Belfour and Joseph have identical career save%, and Belfour played for better teams. Belfour has two vezinas, rookie of the year, multiple jennings awards and a cup. like I said CuJo has one of three HOF components (Stats), Belfour has all three. Not to mention Belfour led the NHL in GAA multiple times and save % multiple times as well as shutouts.

Who's the 'floor' goalie for the HOF for you? Belfour is better than CuJo. Does Grant Fuhr to be in over Joseph? (That's not a rhetorical question, I'm curious).

.

I had forgotten that as another reason to root against the Ducks earlier in the playoffs.

In comment 13480813 BrettNYG10 said:

Quote:

In comment 13480763 pjcas18 said: Quote: In comment 13480755 Greg from LI said: Quote: Belfour and Joseph have identical career save%, and Belfour played for better teams. Belfour has two vezinas, rookie of the year, multiple jennings awards and a cup. like I said CuJo has one of three HOF components (Stats), Belfour has all three. Not to mention Belfour led the NHL in GAA multiple times and save % multiple times as well as shutouts. Who's the 'floor' goalie for the HOF for you? Belfour is better than CuJo. Does Grant Fuhr to be in over Joseph? (That's not a rhetorical question, I'm curious).

Not sure, I've never thought of it in those terms, but I'm generally conservative in terms of HOF in all sports and feel it should be truly the legendary goalies.

I do believe in the three pillars like I mentioned before of stats, accolades and achievements.

Someone like Fuhr, he has 4 cups but he played with Gretzky, Messier, Coffey, Kurri, Tikanen, etc. so he'd need other pillars - so he has a Vezina and counting stats that while don't put him in elite company, put him in good enough company given the other two.

I think CuJo eventually gets in, but I wouldn't vote for him. I don't think he was ever the best goalie of his era and not even really top 3.

I think Osgood is probably as good and shouldn't get in either. And Osgood has 3 cups. Osgood's 35 year old playoffs are a "moment" that CuJo has never had, at least not over a full playoffs.

came across this on Minnesota's Matt Dumba, their young RHD, former 7th overall pick. Divisive player for Wild fans, if we re-open Stepan talks with them I'd figure he'd be a main point of conversation. But the question seems to be how good is he actually

Anybody that's seen more of Minnesota than me have an opinion on Dumba?
Link - ( New Window )

Maybe someone like Quick will get in because he has two although he otherwise probably wouldn't.

Eli (different sport) wouldn't get in without the rings (in my book). But he has them so he should IMO. So there are exceptions. But I don't hold it against Joseph to the degree you seem to.

In comment 13480896 BrettNYG10 said:

Quote:

Maybe someone like Quick will get in because he has two although he otherwise probably wouldn't. Eli (different sport) wouldn't get in without the rings (in my book). But he has them so he should IMO. So there are exceptions. But I don't hold it against Joseph to the degree you seem to.

Like I said, I wouldn't hold it against him if he had a Vezina or two, even a Jennings or two, but nada and this is just my opinion, but for me if you don't have championships, you need to be that much better in the other criteria.

He seems like the prototypical good or very good, but not great goalie.

football equivalent of Vinny Testaverde (top 15 passing yards and passing TD's all time), never an all-pro (pro bowl is sort of a joke but 2x pro-bowler) and ringless. Is Vinny Testaverde a hall of famer? No one with more yard or TD's than him that is eligible is not in the HOF.

so far I have to say in terms of game 7 drama these playoffs have disappointed. Once your team is eliminated it's really all you have to cling to, is good hockey and game 7's.

Because game 7's are where heroes are made. It's what every athlete in any sport grows up envisioning in their driveways on the ice, on the field, in their dreams. Being the hero. Who will it be?

And forget about OT, game 7 OT game winners are where legends are made. There have only been two game 7 OT's in the SC finals, not sure about how many conference finals, but I suspect it's not a ton.

It's like Christmas Eve all day until puck drop.

I agree with this assessment, but if the Senators do win a similar game what does it say about Corsi and correlation to wins?

Quote:

Frank Seravalli‏Verified account @frank_seravalli 3h3 hours ago TEMPTING FATE? Boucher says #Sens have to win exactly same way as Game 6, numbers say that will be tough task: http://www.tsn.ca/senators-seek-repeat-performance-in-game-7-1.760811 � #TSN

Quote:

...Consider this: No Penguins player finished with a Corsi for percentage lower than 54 percent. Crosby and his line controlled play roughly 65 percent of the time while they were on the ice, and Ian Cole led Pittsburgh with a whopping 74.19 percent across nearly 14 minutes of ice time. Meanwhile, none of Ottawa�s players finished above 50 percent, with Ryan and Kyle Turris finishing with a matching 28.57 percent. Using Corsi to examine individual games can be an inexact science, but in this case, it�s evident that the Penguins had their way with the Senators as much as any team can....

Plus the Senators gave up 45 shots in a regulation game. that's a lot of shots relying on a goalie who has been inconsistent these playoffs.

Basically, Boucher's strategy is to have his goalie stand on his head? I hope the game is close, but man, Anderson robbed Crosby on at least two goals I rarely see Crosby miss, I wouldn't give the Senators high odds if that's really the game plan.

when the Pens lost a goal because of am awful interference call.

Did NBC have a shitty angle? The player used both his stick and hand to push the goalie pad into the net then shot the puck in the void created by the push. If the Rangers were scored on like that you would lose your shit if it weren't reversed.

In comment 13482182 Greg from LI said:

Quote:

when the Pens lost a goal because of am awful interference call.

Agree, surprised that was overturned, and it took a 5 - 3 for them to get the tying goal, but that's hockey.

unrelated, but consider this is the 19th playoff game for both the Penguins and Senators. Also, the Penguins played 24 games in last year's playoffs.

I do believe the long playoff runs take a toll in the long run. For a team like the Penguins it's an extra season of hockey after four or five years. Super intense, high energy, stressful hockey.

Rangers I think ran into this a couple years ago.

Not to completely excuse their no-show in game 7 against Tampa, but they looked completely spent. Game 7 was their 19th playoff game that year after 25 the year before, and their 76th playoff game over four seasons.

In comment 13482197 Andy in Halifax said:

Quote:

Did NBC have a shitty angle? The player used both his stick and hand to push the goalie pad into the net then shot the puck in the void created by the push. If the Rangers were scored on like that you would lose your shit if it weren't reversed.

eh, I was surprised they overturned it because on the ice it was called a goal, and even in the replays it seems like Anderson fell first and his momentum was carrying him into the net and the puck was loose around him Daley dug at it and was pushed a little bit into Anderson by Karlsson. I didn't see enough to overturn it so I feel like the call on the ice should have stood.

But you are 100% correct about Rangers fans if they allowed that goal on Hank.

A hot goalie doesn't really say much about Corsi - I'd argue that the increased parity in the league decreases the value of any (supposed) predictive measure. Possession numbers have been getting clustered together - the gaps are too small now. I also think that's why we're seeing less President's Trophy winners win the whole thing, and seeing runs by teams that were average in the regular season. And we've always seen that to a degree, but it feels like it's increasing in recent years.

Ridiculous.

In comment 13482355 BrettNYG10 said:

Quote:

A hot goalie doesn't really say much about Corsi - I'd argue that the increased parity in the league decreases the value of any (supposed) predictive measure. Possession numbers have been getting clustered together - the gaps are too small now. I also think that's why we're seeing less President's Trophy winners win the whole thing, and seeing runs by teams that were average in the regular season. And we've always seen that to a degree, but it feels like it's increasing in recent years.

We've known for decades a hot goalie can carry a team to the cup. How is that a strategy, can teams counter a hot goalie? Absolutely. and not just with puck luck, which I do believe is somewhat created not just luck.

I think Rinne is a hot goalie right now, I know you don't but in watching the games, and his game specifically, he's absolutely the story in NSH. Rinne, Forsberg and their D.

In comment 13482358 BrettNYG10 said:

Quote:

Ridiculous.

Only when justified

In comment 13482368 pjcas18 said:

Quote:

In comment 13482355 BrettNYG10 said: Quote: A hot goalie doesn't really say much about Corsi - I'd argue that the increased parity in the league decreases the value of any (supposed) predictive measure. Possession numbers have been getting clustered together - the gaps are too small now. I also think that's why we're seeing less President's Trophy winners win the whole thing, and seeing runs by teams that were average in the regular season. And we've always seen that to a degree, but it feels like it's increasing in recent years. We've known for decades a hot goalie can carry a team to the cup. How is that a strategy, can teams counter a hot goalie? Absolutely. and not just with puck luck, which I do believe is somewhat created not just luck. I think Rinne is a hot goalie right now, I know you don't but in watching the games, and his game specifically, he's absolutely the story in NSH. Rinne, Forsberg and their D.

I think the D's a bigger story than Rinne. If we're allocating credit, they get a bigger share than he does by a large margin IMO.

In comment 13482385 Greg from LI said:

Quote:

In comment 13482358 BrettNYG10 said: Quote: Ridiculous. Only when justified

Too soon.

But how many Cinderella underdog-type types have actually won a cup on the back of a hot goalie? In my lifetime, I can think of two: the 1990 Oilers and the 1986 Canadiens, and the 1990 Oilers still had a ton of talent who had won four Cups in five years despite a middling regular season in 1990. PJ, I know you'd throw the 2011 Bruins in there but they were a 103 point team and won their division. Thomas WAS incredible, but they weren't that much of a Cinderella.

In comment 13482397 BrettNYG10 said:

Quote:

In comment 13482368 pjcas18 said: Quote: In comment 13482355 BrettNYG10 said: Quote: A hot goalie doesn't really say much about Corsi - I'd argue that the increased parity in the league decreases the value of any (supposed) predictive measure. Possession numbers have been getting clustered together - the gaps are too small now. I also think that's why we're seeing less President's Trophy winners win the whole thing, and seeing runs by teams that were average in the regular season. And we've always seen that to a degree, but it feels like it's increasing in recent years. We've known for decades a hot goalie can carry a team to the cup. How is that a strategy, can teams counter a hot goalie? Absolutely. and not just with puck luck, which I do believe is somewhat created not just luck. I think Rinne is a hot goalie right now, I know you don't but in watching the games, and his game specifically, he's absolutely the story in NSH. Rinne, Forsberg and their D. I think the D's a bigger story than Rinne. If we're allocating credit, they get a bigger share than he does by a large margin IMO.

Maybe offensively, but the defensive is not making saves.

I don't see how you can watch that Anaheim series and watch the last game where he made 38 saves in regulation, not an OT game and say it's the defense. He's made over 30 saves each of the last three games of the series

He had a bad game 2, but otherwise has been stellar.

the Ducks had a ton of quality scoring chances (I am sure you have an advanced stats for quality scoring chances) and when the save is made, that's the goalie.

I posted this before, in these playoffs Rinne has allowed more than 3 goals 1 time in 14 games.

He allowed 3 goals in 4 games against the Blackhawks, that's not your defense when your goalie has a ridiculous almost 98% save percentage.

He has a 94% save percentage in the playoffs. That is carry your team type numbers. 2012 Jonathan Quick-like performance.

And arguing that the defense is the reason for that seems like a vendetta against Rinne for some reason. I've never been a huge fan of his, but when I watch the Preds these playoffs, he's been phenomenal - including handling the puck which helps his defense more than some people may realize.

In comment 13482414 Greg from LI said:

Quote:

But how many Cinderella underdog-type types have actually won a cup on the back of a hot goalie? In my lifetime, I can think of two: the 1990 Oilers and the 1986 Canadiens, and the 1990 Oilers still had a ton of talent who had won four Cups in five years despite a middling regular season in 1990. PJ, I know you'd throw the 2011 Bruins in there but they were a 103 point team and won their division. Thomas WAS incredible, but they weren't that much of a Cinderella.

2012 Jonathan Quick. 8th seed wins the cup.
2011 Tim Thomas, yes, the Bruins were a 103 point team, but Thomas was a big reason for that and it was still tied for 5th best in the conference.

In addition to the ones you mentioned.

Also I count the 1993 Canadiens, Roy was just slightly less stellar than 1986, but his team was not nearly as good.

Quote:

Tom Gulitti‏Verified account @TomGulittiNHL 2m2 minutes ago Most Stanley Cup Playoff games since 2011-12.

My head says an easy Pitt win, but maybe we have a chance to get "lucky" once again and shock the world. Either way, I will be happy to be rid of the most repugnant fanbase in sports.

That can replicate what he's done in his situation. He's played great, I just give the defense more credit than him.

In comment 13482517 Andy in Halifax said:

Quote:

Either way, I will be happy to be rid of the most repugnant fanbase in sports.

Well, when you put it that way, who can argue with you?

In comment 13482549 BrettNYG10 said:

Quote:

That can replicate what he's done in his situation. He's played great, I just give the defense more credit than him.

I could see if he was getting 20 shots a game or if they were winning a bunch of 5 - 3 games. Or even watch the games and if you feel most of his shots against were coming from safe places and rebounds were being cleared right away, I could see an argument, but I don't see any of that.

look at the Blackhawks series.

1 - 0
5 - 0
3 - 2 (2 OT)
4 - 1

he had 29, 30, 34, and 30 saves respectively.

that's not your defense. Chicago was a top 10 scoring team in the league during the regular season.

but whatever, everyone has their opinion.

When the Predators lose to the Pens or Senators I'm sure people will blame Rinne not the defense.

Are you saying he's the front runner for Conn Smythe if they were to win? I don't really agree.

I agree he's played well. But I don't think he's carrying the team like Quick did for LA in 2012.

.
Conn Smythe odds - ( New Window )

is near unanimous Conn Smythe if the Predators win the cup IMO (if things stay proportionately like they are now).

who else, Forsberg? Right now he'd be the only other Preds player in contention. and that flies in the face a little about your theory the defense deserve more credit than Rinne if Forsberg wins Conn Smythe.

no one else is in the conversation without seeing how the finals plays out, but based on the fact we're assuming the Predators win.

He's blowing away the field, since I doubt Matt Murray keeps up that pace beyond his small sample.

you can probably scratch ANA off the list of teams the Rangers are likely to poach a young defensemen from.

Quote:

Eric Stephens‏Verified account @icemancometh GM Bob Murray said Hampus Lindholm, Sami Vatanen have torn labrums and will need major surgery. Lindholm out 4-5 months, Vatanen "longer."

Invalidates my crediting of the defense.

In comment 13482724 BrettNYG10 said:

Quote:

Invalidates my crediting of the defense.

no, it doesn't, but it's still wrong. LOL.

In comment 13482695 pjcas18 said:

Quote:

you can probably scratch ANA off the list of teams the Rangers are likely to poach a young defensemen from. Quote: Eric Stephens‏Verified account @icemancometh GM Bob Murray said Hampus Lindholm, Sami Vatanen have torn labrums and will need major surgery. Lindholm out 4-5 months, Vatanen "longer."

Perhaps, but ANA still needs to figure out how they approach expansion. Vegas would be all too happy to snatch and stash one of those two guys if left unprotected.

In comment 13482517 Andy in Halifax said:

Quote:

My head says an easy Pitt win, but maybe we have a chance to get "lucky" once again and shock the world. Either way, I will be happy to be rid of the most repugnant fanbase in sports.

Good luck, Andy!

Kelly in for the Sens and Schultz in for Pens.

Seen conflicting info on Hornqvist, last I saw, he's out.

pace to the start of this game. Both goalies up to the task so far.

hit someone, can't remember the last time i saw that.

Almost 10 minutes without a whistle.

incredible first half of the period.

teams actually playing looser than I expected for a game 7.

awful call in any game, let alone a game 7.

Sens to the PP.

In comment 13482728 pjcas18 said:

Quote:

In comment 13482724 BrettNYG10 said: Quote: Invalidates my crediting of the defense. no, it doesn't, but it's still wrong. LOL.

lol

PK Subban for Conn Smythe.

Go Sens Go

#prayforAndy

In comment 13482813 BrettNYG10 said:

Quote:

In comment 13482728 pjcas18 said: Quote: In comment 13482724 BrettNYG10 said: Quote: Invalidates my crediting of the defense. no, it doesn't, but it's still wrong. LOL. lol PK Subban for Conn Smythe.

I'd like to see it, I'm a PK fan, but I doubt it.

let's see if they can keep up this pace for 40 more minutes.

Sheary getting better as the game goes on

But that was a really nice play from Sheary to Kunitz.

Wow! What a response by Ottawa.

answer right back, Karlsson the best passing defensemen in the league

making some ridiculous saves again. I guess the strategy of hope your goalie stands on his head and score timely goals might work.

they're letting them play, other than the awful slash on the Pens in the first. I prefer letting them play than calling ticky tack stuff.

Sens on the PP.

Sens seems like they're crushing on the face-offs.

Easily killed most of it.

It'll be interesting to watch Karlsson in the 3rd. Wonder how much gas he has in the tank. Regardless, this has been everything you could hope for in a Game 7.

great period.

Methot with a great hip check on Malkin after Malkin broke up a breakaway.

In comment 13482868 pganut said:

Quote:

Easily killed most of it. It'll be interesting to watch Karlsson in the 3rd. Wonder how much gas he has in the tank. Regardless, this has been everything you could hope for in a Game 7.

the penguins seem to me to be tiring more than the Sens. You notice it more in your own end than in the offensive zone. I saw quite a few times in the second period the pens looking at each other in their own end when there were loose pucks and the Sens won the battle because of the hesitation. That usually means to me you're getting tired.

Outside of Methot's physicality, since the tying goal, I thought they looked to be laboring a bit. No matter, both sides need to dig deep here. This should be a fun 20 minutes to come.

In comment 13482886 pganut said:

Quote:

Outside of Methot's physicality, since the tying goal, I thought they looked to be laboring a bit. No matter, both sides need to dig deep here. This should be a fun 20 minutes to come.

Probably, with the ferocious forechecks by both teams it wouldn't shock me. I still see Karlsson skating out with the forwards, so he seems to have legs still. I just noticed it more with the Penguins, maybe because Schultz hasn't played in a while and Hainsey is a bottom pair D playing top pair minutes.

Phaneuf has struggled some.

and Maatta has struggled. A lot.

I will be dead. Can't take it. #prayforandy

In comment 13482906 Andy in Halifax said:

Quote:

I will be dead. Can't take it. #prayforandy

Ha...love it. Hang in there.

On that sequence saved by Anderson from Guentzel.

Gah, this is killing me.

Phaneufing it up out there.

penalty, I need to see a replay, but I don't think Kessel was going to get there

Kessel dove too, still dumb I don't think Kessel was going to beat the other D.

Of the game. Not digging this right now though. We're tired, this will be a tough kill

the Sens

goal and that's it in regulation, need OT

Does Ottawa have enough to answer? Good chunk of time left.

Fuckity fuck

why they blew that play dead, it didn't even look like Kessel was injured even a little.

up, bullet from Karlsson off the post, Dzingle with the rebound

Great job by the Sens there. I feared the worst initially when Karlsson rang the iron.

.

!!!!

the pinnacle of sports.

great game so far, so hard to keep up this pace, and it's starting to show.

A nice treat.

Andy, allow me to suggest a strong drink.

over this game, they need to have their TV removed from their house.

I can't believe Ottawa is a goal away from getting to the SCF..

Crazy.

convert from that spot it just may end up being your night.

On that Kessel semi-breakaway

I can only imagine our neighbor to the north pacing the floor.

Got away with too many men

The energy is insane right now.

Few things are more intense than OT in a Game 7 in this league.

Some tense moments there.

This is so much fun to watch. Fuck sleep

I can't stand either of these teams but this is fantastic entertainment. Pure excitement.

I don't want this to end.

But if it does.. I hope it ends with a building so quiet you can hear a pin drop.

And then, I hope the Predators kick the ever loving shit out of the Senators.

.

.

booing as usual.

They're like the trailer trash version of Montreal fans.

unbelievable. It's no longer which team is better than the other. It's about endurance now and mental toughness.

In comment 13482979 pjcas18 said:

Quote:

unbelievable. It's no longer which team is better than the other. It's about endurance now and mental toughness.

What would you know about either of those?

#suckit

Make these big baby pens fans go home crying. Throwing shit and booing about a puck that clearly didnt go in. It was bad enough they whine about every icing call the sens guy clearly won numerous times

Yawn.

.

In comment 13482985 BrettNYG10 said:

Quote:

.

On a play where an errant skate blade slices Phaneuf's leg off.

In comment 13482988 Greg from LI said:

Quote:

In comment 13482985 BrettNYG10 said: Quote: . On a play where an errant skate blade slices Phaneuf's leg off.

Just like Michael Sauer would have wanted.

first humorous thing I've heard out of the shoe swinging cunts mouth!

Go Predators

Helluva series, helluva run.

Let's go Preds.

Ugh.

Go Preds.

Sorry Andy.

On the same night.. ew

Go Predators.

far and have a better than good chance to move on Andy.

Preds should be all over them come Monday.

Andy, hard to get this far and lose.

I think Preds in 6.

we're all Nashville fans now boys

7, more than being a preds fan so mostly I'm rooting for good hockey and a close series.

I don't care who wins. If I had to pick I'd say Nashville though.

In comment 13483000 Vin R said:

Quote:

On the same night.. ew

LeBron > Vin

In comment 13483011 arcarsenal said:

Quote:

In comment 13483000 Vin R said: Quote: On the same night.. ew LeBron > Vin

Cha-ching! lol

during 3rd and first OT, woke up the wife and the dog, who moved downstairs (the dog did). What a game, until the end. Anderson deserved better. Methot had an enormous game (though his inability to control the puck along the benchside boards inside his own BL led directly to the PP goal giving Pens 2-1 lead). Karlsson, his superb talent on display so often, banged up as he was, playing through exhaustion, all of them. But during the last 30 minutes of play, Pittsburgh had the more dangerous, the more continuous, pressure in their offensive zone.

The end-to-end was crazy exciting.

Ottawa's grit and determination were also on display, and the Blueshirts couldn't come close to matching it, big difference, as well as talent across the BL. Boucher is a rabid pitbull.

Go Preds.

.

Man I was so nervous before and during the game.
Glad the Pens won, Guy Boucher is no genius, Anderson just stood on head the whole game.
Would have been a devastating loss.
Congrats on a good season Andy.

I can not say enough about how strong mentality the Pens are; this is not the Pens from 2010-2015 who got frustrated. Can't say enough about Mike Sullivan's impact.

I root for a Canadian team (except the Habs). Very disappointing result

But here's the SCF schedule going forward. Admittedly, I'm happy a West Coast team isn't involved for those late 10/10:30pm starts:

Monday, May 29, 8pm: Predators @ Penguins | NBC, CBC, Sportsnet, TVA Sports

Wednesday, May 31, 8pm: Predators @ Penguins | NBCSN, CBC, Sportsnet, TVA Sports

Saturday, June 3, 8pm: Penguins @ Predators | NBCSN, CBC, Sportsnet, TVA Sports

Monday, June 5, 8pm: Penguins @ Predators | NBC, CBC, Sportsnet, TVA Sports

*Thursday, June 8, 8pm: Predators @ Penguins | NBC, CBC, Sportsnet, TVA Sports

*Sunday, June 11, 8pm: Penguins @ Predators | NBC, CBC, Sportsnet, TVA Sports

*Wednesday, June 14, 8pm: Predators @ Penguins | NBC, CBC, Sportsnet, TVA Sports

.

how much of a talent he is. So skilled, so strong on the puck and he has a solid defensive game.

the Penguins having top two centers of Crosby and Malkin is historic (captain obvious?)

Malkin reminds me of Jagr. Main negative I see is he seems to take some shifts off or lose focus, but when you play that pace it's impossible to keep it up.

But having those two allows Crosby and Malkin to average 40 second a shift or less and still have elite scoring threats on the ice meaning opposing D's need to match up where guys like Turris, Hoffman, and Karlsson had to average 45 or more per shift (48 for Karlsson - at least in game 6). Might seem insignificant, but I bet it played a part in OT #2.

yup, his goal in Game 6 put all of that on display in a ~ 9 second stretch, grappling behind the net, winning control, maintaining control vs. very physical tight checking, spinning out to move half way across the crease in front of Anderson, reverse, and then work his stick magic...and he can make like a freight train, a shifty one if there is such a thing, as he barrels up ice, a challenge to neutralize him when he's in that mode

Crosby, say what one wants about Sindy and he deserves much of the calumny, he's just so damn crafty with his stick, w/ and w/o possession, picked Karlsson's pocket a couple of times

I'll say it again, has completely switched the Pens mental toughness.

Aside from the overall change to Adidas, and understanding there will be no 3rd jerseys in 2017-18, article linked below contains some hints at which teams are making changes.

The TL;DR version with the teams making changes:

Boston Bruins
Buffalo Sabres
Calgary Flames
Colorado Avalanche
Columbus Blue Jackets
Dallas Stars
Edmonton Oilers
Florida Panthers
Minnesota Wild
Nashville Predators
New Jersey Devils
Ottawa Senators
and, Las Vegas if you consider they haven't had a jersey to date.

Over a Dozen NHL Teams to Get New Unis Next Season - ( New Window )

I'm a pretty modern person with most of my world views, but I'm 100% get-off-my-lawnish on uniforms.

They should be simple, plain and not materially change.

Rarely do I like uniform changes. The road Canadiens white jerseys are perfection (relatively unchanged since 1946), from a uniform standpoint the classic Maple Leafs jersey is close, the Rangers, Red Wings, etc. most of the original 6, haven't touched their uniforms much. and the alternate jerseys suck. The Bruins bear? Holy shit that was(?) terrible.

I can live with the novelty jerseys for things like the winter classic, but beyond that - not a fan of uniform changes.

that BBI will be united in rooting for the Predators

The only change they ever made was black replacing green.

In comment 13483343 YAJ2112 said:

Quote:

that BBI will be united in rooting for the Predators

"U wot m8?"

-hudson

In comment 13483341 pjcas18 said:

Quote:

I'm a pretty modern person with most of my world views, but I'm 100% get-off-my-lawnish on uniforms. They should be simple, plain and not materially change. Rarely do I like uniform changes. The road Canadiens white jerseys are perfection (relatively unchanged since 1946), from a uniform standpoint the classic Maple Leafs jersey is close, the Rangers, Red Wings, etc. most of the original 6, haven't touched their uniforms much. and the alternate jerseys suck. The Bruins bear? Holy shit that was(?) terrible. I can live with the novelty jerseys for things like the winter classic, but beyond that - not a fan of uniform changes.

Agree on the Original 6 being largely great in terms of aesthetics. I also don't mind a sensible refresh of longtime jerseys when warranted. But there are teams on that list that have had numerous changes and tweaks with somewhat more regular frequency (Buffalo - the slug jersey, Calgary - way too many stripe combos, Edmonton - remember the all-blue oil teardrop, Dallas - ugh, remember the all black uni with the Taurus head?, Panthers just rolled out new jerseys this past season, etc.) that provide very little in the way of connecting a tradition to a jersey. And yes, I know it's all about the dollars, but I like continuity - or at least the illusion of continuity - in my team, as far as their jersey goes.

In comment 13483347 Greg from LI said:

Quote:

The only change they ever made was black replacing green.

I wasn't saying only the original 6 haven't tinkered much, simply saying I don't like when teams monkey with their uniforms or they're overly designed.

I hated the Thrashers for example, hate the Wild, hated some of the Canucks jerseys, etc.

loved the Whale.

Just expressing surprise that the Devils will be changing their uniforms for the first time.

Dallas, Minnesota, and Carolina are probably my least favorite uniforms right now.

"We're talking to John Tavares on the NHL Network's CCM ArenaCam brought to you by The Keg and Tim Horton's, exclusively in 4K UHD sponsored by Bud Light through Southwest Airlines (official airline of the NHL) and Enterprise Rent-A-Car, who understands hockey fans."

but that NASCAR shit is inevitable.