NFT: NHL Home Stretch thread - put this season out of its misery

They had/have a brutal March schedule.

Vegas twice.
Full west coast swing including @ Kings, @ Ducks.
Tampa Bay again.
@ Pitt.

To make matters worse Columbus and Florida have been playing very well. One out of FLA, COL and NJD is not making the playoffs. Devils did pull out a solid win on Saturday night in Nashville so hopefully they can build some momentum.

Sitting first row on the bridge. I bought these tickets around Christmas time, thinking I'd be at the very least watching a game the Rangers should win as they get closer to a playoff position.

Yeah.

and in the current matchup LVG vs DAL I like Dallas to win.

but I've been waiting for Vegas to fall apart all year and I was dead wrong on that one.

I think teams had a little bit of the Vegas flu, and maybe that's not happening so much anymore, or maybe the teams is just hitting a rough patch, but I see no reason they're as good as they were.

huge miss by me. I not only thought they'd be bad, but I thought they'd be historically bad, even with the favorable expansion terms.

thanks for keeping the NHL talk going all year. Like you i am ready for this nightmare season to be over, but unfortunately i think it may just be the start of it for NYI.

Ideal scenario for me: isles lose all remaining games for abetter pick, finally end this horrendous reign of Garth Snow and resign JT long term!

more likely: isles go on crazy win streak, end up season 1 pt from playoffs (again), ownership is happy with "improvement", keep FO intact, JT signs with rags for 10 years and we are stuck in purgatory for all of eternity.

from your OP.

I'm still a Florida Panthers season ticket holder, so I'm hopping aboard that bandwagon. 2 points back of CBJ and 3 points back of NJ with 3 games in hand on both. 8 straight home wins now playing in front of the packed house / rabid fan base (/sarcasm). Ottawa comes to Sunrise tonight. Then... they play Boston for the first time all year on Thursday -- 4 games with Boston in the last ~3 weeks (one matchup earlier this year was postponed due to blizzard).

I just declined to renew my Rangers tix for next year by the way - they want to hold prices flat at outrageous amounts despite a lousy product on the ice and tax reform eliminating 50% deductibility for most businesses. Its just not worth the investment if the team isnt contending. Hope they eat shit with their pricing policy next year, scumbags.

Things are looking up. Glad we beat Pitt Saturday, we needed that. Ever since Matthews went down, so did my boys. Or, you could say, ever since we signed Plekanec my boys went down. Sorry pj....

In comment 13859868 MetsAreBack said:

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from your OP. I'm still a Florida Panthers season ticket holder, so I'm hopping aboard that bandwagon. 2 points back of CBJ and 3 points back of NJ with 3 games in hand on both. 8 straight home wins now playing in front of the packed house / rabid fan base (/sarcasm). Ottawa comes to Sunrise tonight. Then... they play Boston for the first time all year on Thursday -- 4 games with Boston in the last ~3 weeks (one matchup earlier this year was postponed due to blizzard). I just declined to renew my Rangers tix for next year by the way - they want to hold prices flat at outrageous amounts despite a lousy product on the ice and tax reform eliminating 50% deductibility for most businesses. Its just not worth the investment if the team isnt contending. Hope they eat shit with their pricing policy next year, scumbags.

LOL, that was seriously unintentional.

Even if it was convenient I doubt I would would pursue season tickets for my teams, too much commitment. I used to be on the Giants season ticket wait list, thinking in my 50's when I got through the list I'd get an RV and drive down for the games, but the new stadium they got through the whole list and the PSL's etc, I knew I'd get to 1 or 2 games max and it wasn't worth it to me. So there's one retirement dream shot to hell (for now).

I'm at a point in my life and I don't mean this to be douchy, but when it works out that I want to go to a game and schedules line up I like to get great seats and have a great time at that game. For one, I just can't afford that from season ticket standpoint and life gets in the way too often.

Sadly for me I go to Bruins games most often and will never ever root for the Bruins.

Side note, the Bruins made think of a story some might find interesting.

My 10-year old daughter got to play at the Boston Garden last Sunday. It was incredible, not sure who was more excited, me or her. I'm a coach on the team so I was on the bench and walked on the ice (though I played at the old Garden when I was her age for mini one on one in between periods - never a real game though).

It was the night after they played the Canadiens. They used the visitors locker room, so we saw the Canadiens notes all over the place, the kids went dumpster diving and found Andrew Shaw and Brendan Gallagher's broken sticks.

And best of all my daughter score a goal at the Garden, I practically had tears in eyes, the kids - completely un-phased. Just another Sunday morning game.

In comment 13859883 5BowlsSoon said:

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Things are looking up. Glad we beat Pitt Saturday, we needed that. Ever since Matthews went down, so did my boys. Or, you could say, ever since we signed Plekanec my boys went down. Sorry pj....

I thought Plekanec would help on the dots at least and with PK. His finesse days are gone though.

In comment 13859907 pjcas18 said:

Quote:

In comment 13859883 5BowlsSoon said: Quote: Things are looking up. Glad we beat Pitt Saturday, we needed that. Ever since Matthews went down, so did my boys. Or, you could say, ever since we signed Plekanec my boys went down. Sorry pj.... I thought Plekanec would help on the dots at least and with PK. His finesse days are gone though.

Saturday for example, he played 9:29 and was only effective on the PK. Not good on faceoffs and not much ice time 5-5. I think we know his value is limited. Enjoy your second round pick on us.

is one of the best people on the planet, view this link. The NHL is missing a major opportunity not marketing PK more.


Link - ( New Window )

In comment 13859925 5BowlsSoon said:

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In comment 13859907 pjcas18 said: Quote: In comment 13859883 5BowlsSoon said: Quote: Things are looking up. Glad we beat Pitt Saturday, we needed that. Ever since Matthews went down, so did my boys. Or, you could say, ever since we signed Plekanec my boys went down. Sorry pj.... I thought Plekanec would help on the dots at least and with PK. His finesse days are gone though. Saturday for example, he played 9:29 and was only effective on the PK. Not good on faceoffs and not much ice time 5-5. I think we know his value is limited. Enjoy your second round pick on us.

Canadiens need it, Toronto has a youth movement. MTL needs one.

Matthews will be back in time. I still don't like the Leafs goalie or D that much, but they're fun to watch.

... every spring, but especially last year. Maybe by sucking now, as they have been for the last 2 weeks, they�ll get it together in April / May?

Nah.

is the won't likely have the President's Cup stigma, and everyone now expect them to lose.

I am usually indifferent toward the Caps, but Ovie has grown on me. I wouldn't mind seeing him win a cup. I wouldn't care if he didn't win, but I feel like his cup celebration/stories would be incredible.

I think my Devs are going to fall short. Florida is just too damn hot and with their fucking AHL every game at home schedule they will probably blow by us. Maybe we can beat out Columbus. Think is we can play great hockey on this trip and still go 3-3/2-4. Vegas/Pitt/Nashville all could be cup finalists and the S/N California leg could all be playoff teams. Then we come home to play Tampa as the 2nd half of a back to back (@Pitt the first night) are you kidding me? If somehow we are in playoff position or damn close after these next 6 games then we have a decent shot but something tells me we won'tbe who knows. It was adamn gutsy win Sat. night. We have a real goalie controversy with Schneider being so so since his return and Kinkaid getting better and better with every start. I'd be shocked if Kinkaid wasn't in net Wed. in Vegas.

In comment 13860185 Stu11 said:

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I think my Devs are going to fall short. Florida is just too damn hot and with their fucking AHL every game at home schedule they will probably blow by us. Maybe we can beat out Columbus. Think is we can play great hockey on this trip and still go 3-3/2-4. Vegas/Pitt/Nashville all could be cup finalists and the S/N California leg could all be playoff teams. Then we come home to play Tampa as the 2nd half of a back to back (@Pitt the first night) are you kidding me? If somehow we are in playoff position or damn close after these next 6 games then we have a decent shot but something tells me we won'tbe who knows. It was adamn gutsy win Sat. night. We have a real goalie controversy with Schneider being so so since his return and Kinkaid getting better and better with every start. I'd be shocked if Kinkaid wasn't in net Wed. in Vegas.

Devils are probably a year ahead of expectations though, sort of like Edmonton last year.

If they get in, they can do damage though if the goalie situation is straightened out.

Just better hope next year they build on this, unlike Edmonton.

In comment 13860185 Stu11 said:

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I think my Devs are going to fall short. Florida is just too damn hot and with their fucking AHL every game at home schedule they will probably blow by us. Maybe we can beat out Columbus. Think is we can play great hockey on this trip and still go 3-3/2-4. Vegas/Pitt/Nashville all could be cup finalists and the S/N California leg could all be playoff teams. Then we come home to play Tampa as the 2nd half of a back to back (@Pitt the first night) are you kidding me? If somehow we are in playoff position or damn close after these next 6 games then we have a decent shot but something tells me we won'tbe who knows. It was adamn gutsy win Sat. night. We have a real goalie controversy with Schneider being so so since his return and Kinkaid getting better and better with every start. I'd be shocked if Kinkaid wasn't in net Wed. in Vegas.

Florida plays 41 home games and 41 road games this year. I just double-checked. They've also got to play Boston 4x.

NJ's schedule is tough down the stretch but this late in the season with most of those teams really only playing for seed positioning... who knows how motivated some of them will be. Nashville who you just beat, for example, has been resting healthy superstars most nights.

Oh ,and fuck the Devils. I'd probably rather see Washington win one than NJ.

... I'm enjoying what's left of this season and have been seriously bummed by the absence of the Ranger threads

his 600th career goal. Only three players did it faster. Gretzky, Lemieux and Hull (Brett).

seems like he's got a lot left too. as long as he still wants to play.

In comment 13860710 pjcas18 said:

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his 600th career goal. Only three players did it faster. Gretzky, Lemieux and Hull (Brett). seems like he's got a lot left too. as long as he still wants to play.

Ovechkin has a shot at Gretzky's 894 - he would probably even be likely if not for the lockout year in 04-05.

What do you think the chances he makes it are?

Obviously not as awesome as the 3 Cups, but definitely fun.

Also hilarious to watch the Rangers fade.

In comment 13860722 BrettNYG10 said:

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In comment 13860710 pjcas18 said: Quote: his 600th career goal. Only three players did it faster. Gretzky, Lemieux and Hull (Brett). seems like he's got a lot left too. as long as he still wants to play. Ovechkin has a shot at Gretzky's 894 - he would probably even be likely if not for the lockout year in 04-05. What do you think the chances he makes it are?

I think it's unlikely, but when you consider what players like Ovie and Laine are doing to put up numbers like they are in an era where scoring is roughly 50% of what it was during the Gretzky/Lemieux era makes it more impressive.

If Ovechkin averages 40 goals per season from 33 - 38 (so 6 seasons) that still puts him short of Gretzky.

For reference, Gretzky only even broke 30 goals once after turning 32 and never scored 40.

The only advantage today's players have, and it's new, is 3v3 OT. Gretzky would have cleaned up in 3v3 OT, but put bigger pads on goalies, get some composite sticks, and get rid of the goons/plodding 4th linhers, and who knows how his career goes.

In comment 13860185 Stu11 said:

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I think my Devs are going to fall short. Florida is just too damn hot and with their fucking AHL every game at home schedule they will probably blow by us. Maybe we can beat out Columbus. Think is we can play great hockey on this trip and still go 3-3/2-4. Vegas/Pitt/Nashville all could be cup finalists and the S/N California leg could all be playoff teams. Then we come home to play Tampa as the 2nd half of a back to back (@Pitt the first night) are you kidding me? If somehow we are in playoff position or damn close after these next 6 games then we have a decent shot but something tells me we won'tbe who knows. It was adamn gutsy win Sat. night. We have a real goalie controversy with Schneider being so so since his return and Kinkaid getting better and better with every start. I'd be shocked if Kinkaid wasn't in net Wed. in Vegas.

Schneider's play of late has been alarming. I would like to see the Devils trade him in the offseason, perhaps to the Isles, to clear his contract off the books. I would like to see the Devils trade for a young goaltender like Washington's Grubauer. If they can't pry him loose then a 3 year deal for Antti Raanta would be ideal.

Unfortunately the Devils don't have any young goaltender close to ready as Ken Appleby is likely the long term backup after Kinkaid's deal expires after next season and MacKenzie Blackwood is a couple of years away if he develops as hoped.

In comment 13860727 pjcas18 said:

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In comment 13860722 BrettNYG10 said: Quote: In comment 13860710 pjcas18 said: Quote: his 600th career goal. Only three players did it faster. Gretzky, Lemieux and Hull (Brett). seems like he's got a lot left too. as long as he still wants to play. Ovechkin has a shot at Gretzky's 894 - he would probably even be likely if not for the lockout year in 04-05. What do you think the chances he makes it are? I think it's unlikely, but when you consider what players like Ovie and Laine are doing to put up numbers like they are in an era where scoring is roughly 50% of what it was during the Gretzky/Lemieux era makes it more impressive. If Ovechkin averages 40 goals per season from 33 - 38 (so 6 seasons) that still puts him short of Gretzky. For reference, Gretzky only even broke 30 goals once after turning 32 and never scored 40. The only advantage today's players have, and it's new, is 3v3 OT. Gretzky would have cleaned up in 3v3 OT, but put bigger pads on goalies, get some composite sticks, and get rid of the goons/plodding 4th linhers, and who knows how his career goes.

Yeah, he'd probably need 2 or 3 50 goal seasons. I don't see it, but it's not impossible. I really think the lockouts killed any chance for him.

and holy shit whenever i watch Scott Darling face us this year he wouldnt be good enough to man the net for most New Jersey prep schools.

bad loss for Florida. I guess we always have hope that the Panthers remember they're the......Panthers.

In comment 13860596 pjcas18 said:

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Devils are probably a year ahead of expectations though, sort of like Edmonton last year. If they get in, they can do damage though if the goalie situation is straightened out. Just better hope next year they build on this, unlike Edmonton.

Yep PJ thats why I've been enjoying this year so much. Team/player development isn't always linear. just because we are young and have had success this year doesn't necessarily mean we'll take that next step next year. Edmonton is a great example of that.

Jay I think you're being way too alarmist on Schneider. Yea he hasn't been great, but since he came back including games vs. Winnipeg and Vegas 2 of the best offensive teams in the league he's only giving up 3 a night. Yea some goals have gone in you don't like but I think many Devils fans are gong way overboard here. Schneider will be fine long term.

can catch Ottawa they have a chance to get in the top 5 and I really think this draft has 5 or 6 legit top of the draft contribute immediately players.

I'm coming around on Zadina or Tkachuk as a really good consolation prize for missing out on Dahlin.

and next year's projected #1 NA player, Jack Hughes is lighting it up (his brother Quinn is a top 5/6 er in this draft).

Rangers not helping themselves by playing well. Or at least well enough to win, in a losable game.

it is what it is. I think they botched bringing back Kreider too soon, but its hard - guys like Zuccarello, Hayes, Ziba and Hank are going to try... you can't ask them not to.

Also their shooting percentage feels like its about 20% over the past 3 weeks - eveyrthing goes in. Part of it is these are good snipers above, but the opposing goaltending has been truly pathetic- I dont know why Carolina thought Scott Darling was a good goalie last offseason, but his play against the Rangers in 3 starts now this year has been beyond laughable. Vancouver got awful goaltending against us last week too.

We're picking either 8 or 9, maybe 10 if we pass NYI. Still too much talent on this roster, and thus we're stuck in hell - not good enough to make the playoffs, not bad enough to start accumulating future assets that can help us win a Cup.

and maybe that's a good sign that this year is an anomaly.

at least MTL has Price, Weber, and Pacioretty out for the year making it easier on them.

playing without any pressure... the GM announced the tank, which eliminated all playoff expectations and thus all pressure on the players... they were suddenly free to go out and just play

back up to about 2.5%. #soyoursayingtheresachance

Worst possible place to be.

In comment 13861787 Greg from LI said:

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Worst possible place to be.

Not sure I agree, 3 prospects in the top 30 NHL prospects and 5 (?) picks in the upcoming draft first two rounds.

Plus a possible (likely?) coaching change.

Chytil and Andersson probably contribute next year at the NHL level. Shesterkin is a top 10 prospect, but is blocked, so no clue when he contributes, but he's an asset at worst.

Plus, and fully admit NHL cap is not my expertise, but I have to believe they cleared cap space with dealing McDonagh, Nash, Holden, etc. at the deadline.

I think the Rangers are in a good spot to rebound like the Bruins did. Only major difference is Boston relied in the core and changed coaches, plus infused some youth (McAvoy, DeBrusk, etc.).

In comment 13860043 pjcas18 said:

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is the won't likely have the President's Cup stigma, and everyone now expect them to lose. I am usually indifferent toward the Caps, but Ovie has grown on me. I wouldn't mind seeing him win a cup. I wouldn't care if he didn't win, but I feel like his cup celebration/stories would be incredible.

Ugh, god why is it the Rangers have to rebuild, but the Caps don't?
Can't wait for them to go downhill.

haven't made it out of the 2nd round/conference semi-finals of the playoffs in the Ovie era I believe.

To Greg's point, you really need high draft picks. The Bruins are sort of an outlier with Pastrnak in late round one and Bergeron in round 2.

Embrace the tank.

and its been glorious.

With that said -- Eagles just won a SB and every single one of my teams is in the toilet, or even worse, the Rangers had a great opportunity to grab a generational talent and they pissed it away for personal prides (and 95% save rates in Western Canada)... only extending the run of mediocrity.

So.. I'm expecting the Caps to break through. It makes too much sense at this point for it not to.

In comment 13862221 BrettNYG10 said:

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To Greg's point, you really need high draft picks. The Bruins are sort of an outlier with Pastrnak in late round one and Bergeron in round 2. Embrace the tank.

I'm not saying not to embrace the tank, I'm hoping the Canadiens lose out.

But I think some of you underestimate the significance of Chytil and Andersson.

If they're both centers that's ridiculously valuable.

You're #1 and #2 center organically grown/developed and 19 years old.

it makes everything mediocre about your team better.

In comment 13862221 BrettNYG10 said:

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Embrace the tank.

Too late now. The sad part is Ottawa and a few others had been playing better lately too - a top 5 pick was so possible... one of the more hateable Rangers teams in memory.

In comment 13862238 pjcas18 said:

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In comment 13862221 BrettNYG10 said: Quote: To Greg's point, you really need high draft picks. The Bruins are sort of an outlier with Pastrnak in late round one and Bergeron in round 2. Embrace the tank. I'm not saying not to embrace the tank, I'm hoping the Canadiens lose out. But I think some of you underestimate the significance of Chytil and Andersson. If they're both centers that's ridiculously valuable. You're #1 and #2 center organically grown/developed and 19 years old. it makes everything mediocre about your team better.

I think Chytil has a high ceiling. The Rangers have some really good pieces. But without the elite talent, they are looking at another stretch of being an above-average team.

Layering on a couple top three picks to what they have in the pipeline could make them a contender in 4-5 years.

In comment 13862249 MetsAreBack said:

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In comment 13862221 BrettNYG10 said: Quote: Embrace the tank. Too late now. The sad part is Ottawa and a few others had been playing better lately too - a top 5 pick was so possible... one of the more hateable Rangers teams in memory.

I know. Sucks.

Yes they've probably lost their chance at Dahlin, though it was slim to begin with. But they have the assets to be sure they get into the top 5, even if it takes a trade. And if the draft is as good as Pjcas Kiper Jr. says it is, they'll be able to grab an elite talent once there.

Tkachuk is an odd one for me. Pj, any insight into why he's only for 8 goals at BU this season? Seems a bit low. Not that he won't be a good player but maybe not quite an elite prospect? Maybe the name is carrying him a bit but that's pure speculation

In comment 13862311 Kyle in NY said:

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Yes they've probably lost their chance at Dahlin, though it was slim to begin with. But they have the assets to be sure they get into the top 5, even if it takes a trade. And if the draft is as good as Pjcas Kiper Jr. says it is, they'll be able to grab an elite talent once there. Tkachuk is an odd one for me. Pj, any insight into why he's only for 8 goals at BU this season? Seems a bit low. Not that he won't be a good player but maybe not quite an elite prospect? Maybe the name is carrying him a bit but that's pure speculation

Sometimes it's easy to forget players like Tkachuk who is a young freshman (he only turned 18 in September) is playing in NCAA against players on average 3 or 4 years older than him. He's the youngest player on his team. Eventually, it won't be a big deal (the age gap), but he's still growing into his body, plus he's got 28 points in 38 games, so not like he's over-matched.

But, even though I like his shot and stick handling, he's also a great passer with good vision, so he may be a pass-first guy too. which is fine with me. He's got the size and physicality to cycle and get the greasy goals, or play the skill game. He's very versatile. legit two-way player with an edge, it may be lazy, but his father is a good comp, more so than his brother.

In the World Juniors he was dominant.

The only prospects I have ahead of him are Dahlin and Zadina. But Zadina is pure filth, no grit (from what I can tell). Possibly Svechnikov, who is also filthy.

Someone may take Wahlstrom or Hughes or Boqvist or Bouchard over him, but not me.

He's a no-brainer top 5 pick and would be a fit for the NHL IMO if not day 1, then season 1.

I really like the top of this draft.

kind of like when I was in squirts and played against Roenick. Only my team had just one future NHL player (and he was a fringe player) and Roenick wasn't a dick who scored 8 goals (at that time at least) he played D and (like everyone else) realized he was the best player on the ice and could score at will, he played defense that game and had a couple goals, but mostly set up his teammates. We got killed and we didn't lose once all year, we lost a few games, we were maybe 35 - 5 on the season.

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Patrick O'Sullivan ‏Verified account @realPOSULLIVAN 19h19 hours ago I�ve said this before but I knew Ovechkin was gonna be a legend when I was 10 and my team played his in a tournament. We had 3 other guys who would play in the NHL and we lost once all year. It was to his team 10-2. He had 8 goals.

Quinn Hughes if he was a few inches taller?

In comment 13862573 Kyle in NY said:

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Quinn Hughes if he was a few inches taller?

I'm actually changing my thinking a little on D. I'm an admitted laggard in this thinking as evidenced by NHL rosters and success of players like McAvoy, Mete, Butcher, Girard to an extent, but smaller puck moving D are becoming more and more valuable in the NHL.

I watched Victor Hedman beaten repeatedly against MTL partly because he took chances offensively, but also because he's just not quick enough. Don't get me wrong, he's an immense talent, but with speedy forwards like MTL has he gets exposed.

So while my prototypical defenseman is still a Sergachev (6' 3" 215 lb great skater, booming shot, physical D), I no longer devalue the smaller D necessarily just based on size.

I think for me it took Charlie McAvoy - I watched him for three or four years in juniors INTL tourneys and some in summer hockey and I finally admit he can hang and bang with the big boys.

Hughes is a little smaller than McAvoy but he's also a better skater with better vision.

I think at his current size Hughes will be a valuable top 4 NHL D.

Just have to hope he's more Charlie McAvoy and less Torey Krug to keep the Bruins comps alive. Krug is partly why I don't like small D. So finesse.

Really IMO should only be on the PP.

winds up 5th and the draft falls like:

Dahlin
Zadina
Svechnikov
Tkachuk

I wouldn't be upset with any of:
Boqvist (similar sized D similar to Hughes)
Dobson (more prototypical D size)
Wahlstrom (forward)
Bouchard (like Dobson)
Hughes


Kjell Samuelsson's son is also in this draft and I put some stock into bloodlines. He might be a Rangers target with their 2nd 1st round pick. Big kid, more of a stay-at-home defenseman, so not flashy, but there's a place for a player like him in the top 4 D IMO.

playoff matchups today look like:

East:
TBL vs CBJ
BOS vs TOR (looking forward to this, hope it stays this way)
WAS vs NJD
PIT vs PHI (I like intra-state battles)

In the hunt: FL really it

CAR and NYR only 8 points out, so not eliminated, it would be something if after the public tank the Rangers make the playoffs. The players giving a big FU to the FO.

Rangers would need to be road warriors with only 4 of their final 11 games at home, and 10 of 11 vs quality opponents.

Technically no one in the East is eliminated, even BUF, while in the West ARI and VAN are eliminated.

Far cry from last year when top 3 teams were in the Metro, today the top 3 teams are from the Atlantic.

West:
LVG vs DAL
SJS vs LAK
NSH vs COL
WIN vs MIN

In the hunt:
ANA (tied with COL in pts), STL - the West could have some drama down the stretch.

If you haven't seen the youtube/video clip of the Carolina sportscaster review the Hurricanes 6 - 4 loss in Boston after being up 4 - 1 search for it, it's hilarious.



West:

Florida has games in hand on all 3. Insane past 2 games for the Devs, especially last night in Vegas. The Devs have had zero puck luck for a month and it all came due for them last night as they were getting favorable bounces all over the place. Plus I think were lucky catching them on the dreaded first home game after a long trip. The most impressive thing about last night is that we scored 6 goals before Hall even got a point. Grabner finally potted his first as a Devil. Someone on here mentioned that catching Vegas and Nashville now is favorable because they are locked in first. I tend to agree. That won't be the case over the next 3- LA/Anaheim/SJ as all 3 are fighting for their playoff lives and will be just as hungry as we are.
Big match-ups tonight:
Columb. @ Philly
Bos@Fla
Wash @ NYI
Pitt @ Mont.
Ottawa and the Habs have been playing much better lately so they really have a chance to be a spoiler down the stretch.

on Tuesday for the first time in 6 games, so it's not translating into W's thankfully.

What do you mean by this?

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Vegas and Nashville now is favorable because they are locked in first

Nashville could overtake TB for Presidents Cup. I know Brett doesn't like him but Rinne is almost a lock for Vezina while Vasilevsky (the one time leader) is pulling a Tom Petty (free-falling).

This year will be put up or shut up in the playoffs for Rinne since he no-showed a few games.

My opinion of Rinne is improving. I still think there are better goaltenders. All Vezina winners benefit from the D to some degree, but I think the Preds have one of the best groups in years.

I also think the quality of goaltending is continuing to improve league-wide - the gap between the best guy and an average one is smaller than ever. The gap between Roy/Hasek/Brodeur and the average starting goalie in the 90's was much larger than the gap between the Vezina winners today and the average goalie.

In comment 13868035 BrettNYG10 said:

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My opinion of Rinne is improving. I still think there are better goaltenders. All Vezina winners benefit from the D to some degree, but I think the Preds have one of the best groups in years. I also think the quality of goaltending is continuing to improve league-wide - the gap between the best guy and an average one is smaller than ever. The gap between Roy/Hasek/Brodeur and the average starting goalie in the 90's was much larger than the gap between the Vezina winners today and the average goalie.

True, it's what I always think about Bobrovsky, and then he makes some absolute highlight reel saves.

I think Bob has better defensive D than even Rinne does.

Columbus D vs Nashville D is a good debate.

Best young D pair in the league IMO is in CBJ with Werenski and Jones.

Cole is on their 3rd pair. He'd be a 1st D on MTL.

I think I'd give NSH an edge, just because their pairs are all good so they have a depth edge, but I don't know if there is a D pair in the entire league I'd take over Werenski and Jones. And they're both American and under 24 (Werenski is still 20).

somehow the guy I always hated has become one of my favorite players. Still hate his style of play, love his clutchness, his sense of humor, and attitude.

I like the Preds D more. I like Bobrovsky and would take him over Rinne.

like a cross between a cave man and chris elliott.

In comment 13868065 pjcas18 said:

Quote:

somehow the guy I always hated has become one of my favorite players. Still hate his style of play, love his clutchness, his sense of humor, and attitude.

my man's lettuce is looking awfully weak.. might be time to retire that look..

In comment 13868072 BrettNYG10 said:

Quote:

I like the Preds D more. I like Bobrovsky and would take him over Rinne.

Bob has been brutal in the playoffs, you have problems with Rinne coming up small.

Bobrovsky playoff GAA: 3.63 sv% .887 (brutal - only 18 games though)

Rinne playoff GAA: 2.35 (including your blameful 1.96 in last years post-season) sv% .917 (70 games)

Neither one is young. Bobrovsky 29, Rinne 35.

Lol, my issue with Rinne isn't that he comes up small in the playoffs (I tend to think fans overuse the choker/clutch labels) - I don't think he's an elite guy who can carry a team (like Lundqvist, Price, etc. have).

I absolutely think Rinne hurt them in the SCF last year, although he was quite good in the first three rounds.

In comment 13868101 BrettNYG10 said:

Quote:

Lol, my issue with Rinne isn't that he comes up small in the playoffs (I tend to think fans overuse the choker/clutch labels) - I don't think he's an elite guy who can carry a team (like Lundqvist, Price, etc. have). I absolutely think Rinne hurt them in the SCF last year, although he was quite good in the first three rounds.

He let some softies in.

But he was absolutely at least part of the reason they were there.

I don't think he's as good as Price (though Price hasn't been good for a long stretch in two years now).

I disagree on the goalie quality though overall. I think the league is in desperate need of new goalie talent.

Maybe Helleybuck. Seems like goalies take a while to develop now. Matt Murray has lost his shine.

At least not much.

My comment was about the level overall, not individuals. Maybe there is a lack of elite talent out there, but I think the average goaltender is very good now.

he'll return to the NHL after this season.

probably only consider legit contenders since part of his rationale is he wants to match Datsyuk with a World Championship, Olympic Gold, and Stanley Cup. And he's got the first two.

I puke in my mouth a little picturing the Penguins or Capitals with Kovy added to their teams or even the Bruins, but the Bruins don't have a Malkin or Ovechkin to recruit Kovy.


Kovy back to the NHL for 2018-2019 - ( New Window )

really hate their rebuild.

though, as I've said I think it has as much to do with coaching as anything, they've added some good young players too.

and the Canadiens have 8 picks in the top 100 (if LA makes the playoffs, 7 otherwise) and 9 in the top 4 rounds either way.

I like the top of the 1st as I said, no clue if the 2nd/3rd are expected to be solid too.

teams like NYR and MTL who have solid cores can turnaround quickly. I know people on here have suggested a rebuild, I'm not so sure it won't just be a rebound.

that once they hit free agency underperform their new paygrades. For whatever reason in this league cornerstone players worth 15mm a year take 9-10mm deals... while complimentary, very good but clearly inferior players to Stamkos/Crosby/Ovi,etcs sign for 7. 2nd pair defensemen get 6.

So... You need superstars to win Cups. Guys that every time they touch the puck in May are a threat to score. Neither MTL nor NYR have them, which is why "rebounding" would be a complete waste of time.

hope baadbill and others have enjoyed the "great run" by the kids the past 3 weeks. Its set this franchise back badly.

support your opinion, but the Kings do not.

Now whether or not Hank is the goalie to win a cup or not is debatable, but while Kopitar is a fantastic 2-way center, he's not Crosby, Malkin, Kane or Toews.

Quick was why they won those cups (at least one of them), which is why I think the Canadiens can rebound, re-tool, reload whatever you want to call it, without a full multi-year rebuild.

I think the Rangers can to, depending on Hank (or who knows maybe the playoffs show a team minus a goalie and it's Shestyorkin in net in NY.

Anyway point is the Rangers have 5 picks first two rounds (I think) and the Canadiens have 4 and 8 picks in the top 100.

that's a youth infusion that even if they need a rebuild should provide ammo to move up or talent to develop.

Both teams could use new coaches IMO.

In comment 13874330 pjcas18 said:

Quote:

support your opinion, but the Kings do not. Now whether or not Hank is the goalie to win a cup or not is debatable, but while Kopitar is a fantastic 2-way center, he's not Crosby, Malkin, Kane or Toews. Quick was why they won those cups (at least one of them), which is why I think the Canadiens can rebound, re-tool, reload whatever you want to call it, without a full multi-year rebuild. I think the Rangers can to, depending on Hank (or who knows maybe the playoffs show a team minus a goalie and it's Shestyorkin in net in NY. Anyway point is the Rangers have 5 picks first two rounds (I think) and the Canadiens have 4 and 8 picks in the top 100. that's a youth infusion that even if they need a rebuild should provide ammo to move up or talent to develop. Both teams could use new coaches IMO.

The Kings picked in the top 5 of the draft 3 years in a row, from 2007-2009. In 2005, they took their #1 (11 overall) on Kopitar.

Took Doughty. Packaged Schenn and Simmonds for Carter and Richards, which most believe were instrumental in at least their first run, particularly Carter. And then of course they got lucky with Quick.

In comment 13874321 MetsAreBack said:

Quote:

hope baadbill and others have enjoyed the "great run" by the kids the past 3 weeks. Its set this franchise back badly.

WTF, lol ... its MY FAULT the Rangers are losing draft position? What the F have you been drinking MAB? rofl

based to mess up the tank. this is on you. And the players, but mostly you.

NCAA brackets released yesterday. For anyone interested a good chance to see some draft prospects.

Brady Tkachuk and Joel Farabee on BU.

Quinn Hughes and Mattias Samuelsson (Kjell's son) on Michigan

a couple later round prospects on Providence.

Plus a bunch of guys already drafted, last year's Canadiens 1st round pick Ryan Poehling (on St Cloud), Canadiens 7th round pick Cayden Primeau (Keith's son) on Northeastern.

Islanders Ben Mirageas on Providence

Islanders Logan Cockerill on BU

Devils Matt Hellickson on ND

Devils Joey Anderson (captain of US junior team) on Minn -Duluth

In comment 13874810 pjcas18 said:

Quote:

based to mess up the tank. this is on you. And the players, but mostly you.

I know PJ. I was honestly going back and forth about how I should use my feelings, but finally just said "F It" and enjoyed myself. And now look at what happened! Mea culpa!

In comment 13874711 baadbill said:

Quote:

In comment 13874321 MetsAreBack said: Quote: hope baadbill and others have enjoyed the "great run" by the kids the past 3 weeks. Its set this franchise back badly. WTF, lol ... its MY FAULT the Rangers are losing draft position? What the F have you been drinking MAB? rofl

You took that as me blaming you? Maybe i've been working too hard lately and i'm tired, but i'm at a loss how one could take it that way.

My 6 year old son has been rooting for the Blue Shirts too - maybe its his fault actually.

(and obviously me) are messing with you.

Tanking in hockey is hard for teams that aren't just totally terrible or ravaged with injuries.

and even though I think the top of this draft is strong, in general the NHL draft is still somewhat of a crapshoot and a little like baseball in that you're dealing with 17 or 18 year old kids and projecting how they'll grow/develop.

So you can obviously get good players later in the 1st (and even later rounds).

Just yanking some chains is all

Hoping Laine wins, but still up in the air.

Ovie 43
Laine 43
Malkin 40
Staal 39
Karlsson 39
MacKinnon 38
Seguin 38
Kucherov 36
Lee 35
McDavid 34
Tavares 32

Top 5 all have a shot IMO.

18 goals in 183 career games before this year, 39 in 71 this year.

Oh, and here's a fun stat: Eric Staal averaged .85 PPG for Carolina and is now averaging .88 for Minny. His 20 games as a Ranger? .3.

sustains this.

if he does sustain this and he's a legit 40 goal scorer that was given away for nothing, and he was just miss-used/miss-cast then Torts and more specifically Jarmo Kekalainen should lose their jobs.

they sent Vegas a 1st round pick and a 3rd round pick to make sure that Vegas took Karlsson.

In comment 13875905 Greg from LI said:

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18 goals in 183 career games before this year, 39 in 71 this year. Oh, and here's a fun stat: Eric Staal averaged .85 PPG for Carolina and is now averaging .88 for Minny. His 20 games as a Ranger? .3.

AV misused him.

I thought MIN got a great deal when they signed him. NYR didn't need a forward, and AV played him at wing.

in the next 10 games will sway Tavares mind either way. He's either made his mind up, or will wait to see what the Isles do with the coach/gm before deciding whether to leave or not.

Given that, Isles might as well tank these last 10 games. Give the new GM some nice assets to try and improve the team. Increase the chances to getting lucky and getting a top 3 pick.

In comment 13875916 BrettNYG10 said:

Quote:

In comment 13875905 Greg from LI said: Quote: 18 goals in 183 career games before this year, 39 in 71 this year. Oh, and here's a fun stat: Eric Staal averaged .85 PPG for Carolina and is now averaging .88 for Minny. His 20 games as a Ranger? .3. AV misused him. I thought MIN got a great deal when they signed him. NYR didn't need a forward, and AV played him at wing.

I hate AV but hard to find fault on this one:

a) He was on our third line, and I'm not sure who i would have demoted to put him on a top two line

b) He was badly hurt on two different occassions -- once i think in the last week of the regular season, had his head slammed into the ice, or something along those lines, i dont remember exactly.

c) Deadline deals more often than not dont turn out as well as hoped - not enough time to generate chemistry with linemates.

In comment 13875954 Metnut said:

Quote:

in the next 10 games will sway Tavares mind either way. He's either made his mind up, or will wait to see what the Isles do with the coach/gm before deciding whether to leave or not. Given that, Isles might as well tank these last 10 games. Give the new GM some nice assets to try and improve the team. Increase the chances to getting lucky and getting a top 3 pick.

Isles are looking at two lottery picks this spring which helps. Calgary has been a surprising IMO bust this year. Both are low probability of getting selected in top 3, but never know - it happened for Philly and Dallas last year.

the clear cut #1 pick?

In comment 13876056 JayBinQueens said:

Quote:

the clear cut #1 pick?

Yes, by a lot.

In comment 13876049 MetsAreBack said:

Quote:

In comment 13875916 BrettNYG10 said: Quote: In comment 13875905 Greg from LI said: Quote: 18 goals in 183 career games before this year, 39 in 71 this year. Oh, and here's a fun stat: Eric Staal averaged .85 PPG for Carolina and is now averaging .88 for Minny. His 20 games as a Ranger? .3. AV misused him. I thought MIN got a great deal when they signed him. NYR didn't need a forward, and AV played him at wing. I hate AV but hard to find fault on this one: a) He was on our third line, and I'm not sure who i would have demoted to put him on a top two line b) He was badly hurt on two different occassions -- once i think in the last week of the regular season, had his head slammed into the ice, or something along those lines, i dont remember exactly. c) Deadline deals more often than not dont turn out as well as hoped - not enough time to generate chemistry with linemates.

I guess that's fair. I should have been blaming Gorton more. Such a dumb trade.

Yandle's mis-use was more AV.

In comment 13876073 pjcas18 said:

Quote:

In comment 13876056 JayBinQueens said: Quote: the clear cut #1 pick? Yes, by a lot.

I think he's the most hyped dman prospect I can remember. Would you agree?

vs FLA last night.

Yandle looks like such a JAG next to Ekblad.

Ekblad an assist away from the Gordie Howe hat trick (though the Panthers can't be happy about the fight with his concussion history).

Shows the value of a two-way D who can excel offensively.

Hasn't fully translated yet to stats for Ekblad, but he's still just 22 or so, give it time.

In comment 13876081 BrettNYG10 said:

Quote:

In comment 13876073 pjcas18 said: Quote: In comment 13876056 JayBinQueens said: Quote: the clear cut #1 pick? Yes, by a lot. I think he's the most hyped dman prospect I can remember. Would you agree?

Since Leetch in my memory. Leetch is only three or four years older than me and is from the next town over, so we never crossed in high school, but they used to say he's the best skater this side of Moscow as he progressed to the NHL.

Even though some other D went #1 overall (Ekblad, Berard, and Jovanovski?) none as hyped as Dahlin from what I recall since Leetch.

son passed away. Must have been an infant, I remember he had a gender reveal video where he shot a puck or something filled with blue or pink powder and it was blue.

that couldn't have been too long ago.

In comment 13876092 pjcas18 said:

Quote:

vs FLA last night. Yandle looks like such a JAG next to Ekblad. Ekblad an assist away from the Gordie Howe hat trick (though the Panthers can't be happy about the fight with his concussion history). Shows the value of a two-way D who can excel offensively. Hasn't fully translated yet to stats for Ekblad, but he's still just 22 or so, give it time.

Wow, either you were seriously bored or you are a glutton for punishment. That Habs lineup looks like a mediocre AHL team. I saw my Leafs trounce the Habs Saturday and I felt sorry for them. It was 4-0 and not even that close.

In comment 13876272 5BowlsSoon said:

Quote:

In comment 13876092 pjcas18 said: Quote: vs FLA last night. Yandle looks like such a JAG next to Ekblad. Ekblad an assist away from the Gordie Howe hat trick (though the Panthers can't be happy about the fight with his concussion history). Shows the value of a two-way D who can excel offensively. Hasn't fully translated yet to stats for Ekblad, but he's still just 22 or so, give it time. Wow, either you were seriously bored or you are a glutton for punishment. That Habs lineup looks like a mediocre AHL team. I saw my Leafs trounce the Habs Saturday and I felt sorry for them. It was 4-0 and not even that close.

I am embracing the tank at this point. Need Ottawa and Detroit (and Edmonton) to win.

The Canadiens are playing without Price, Weber, Pacioretty (their three best players) and traded away several more lesser pieces. Losses are what they need.

Plus, I like seeing their younger players play. Lehkonen, Scherbak, De La Rose, Hudon, McCarron, Juulsen, Lernout Reilly, Lindgren all 24 or under 24. Even Galchenyuk is 24 and Drouin is 22.

Though Price is returning to the lineup for some weird reason.

Quote:

Michael Russo ‏Verified account @RussoHockey 3h3 hours ago Hearing the #gophers' Ryan Lindgren will be signing with the #nyrangers

they got Lindgren from the Bruins. I think in the Nash trade.

Pretty good company. All in the HOF except Phaneuf.

Quote:

Hockey Reference ‏Verified account @hockey_ref 1m1 minute ago Aaron Ekblad is the 9th defenseman in NHL history to have multiple 15-goal years thru his age-21 season

Geez

Don�t hate me for saying this, but that list of young guys you named In my opinion are all mediocre or less. Honestly, I doubt any of those guys make you proud. No blue chippers at all and that includes AG. For your sake, I hope I�m wrong because I don�t hate the Habs just because I�m a Leafs fan......it is hard to hate a team that has not been significant for 25 years. As a Leafs fan, I know all about not being significant. Been longer than 25......

As long as you continue to have not smart people running the ship, expect a lot more disappointment.

In comment 13876635 5BowlsSoon said:

Quote:

Don�t hate me for saying this, but that list of young guys you named In my opinion are all mediocre or less. Honestly, I doubt any of those guys make you proud. No blue chippers at all and that includes AG. For your sake, I hope I�m wrong because I don�t hate the Habs just because I�m a Leafs fan......it is hard to hate a team that has not been significant for 25 years. As a Leafs fan, I know all about not being significant. Been longer than 25...... As long as you continue to have not smart people running the ship, expect a lot more disappointment.

I don't hate you for saying it. I too don't hate the Leafs, I don't remember them ever being relevant in my life time even the odd years when they made the playoffs, I did see the Habs win two cups though.

What the comment makes me though is to dismiss your evaluation skills and not really value your opinion on players.

Alex Galchenyuk is mediocre or worse?

He's the leading point scorer from the 2012 draft. In a draft that didn't have a McDavid I'll admit, but it included Forsberg, Teravainen, Athanasiou and others. He is far from average or worse

He had 30 goals as a 21 year old. He's insanely skilled. and he's never played next to a #1 or even a legit center.

By you saying Jonathan Drouin is average or worse doesn't make me hate you, I love hockey talk and I engage with all fans, but like I said it makes me dismiss your opinion as uninformed or makes me feel like you as a fan are as mediocre or worse with your player evals.

Some of the guys like Juulsen - you have no idea about. he's a former 1st round pick whose played 14 NHL games at 20 years old - to have your opinion about him is silly, Lehkonen, Hudon, de la rose, maybe not top liners, but all are legit NHL players. Plus Mete who I didn't even name is 19.

Agree about the not smart people running things though. I do like their youth though, even with no Auston Matthews in the group - you need to be much worse than the Canadiens have been (like the Leafs have been) to win that prize.

win for the Islanders last night, but at least Hudson got to see it live so I'll take some solace in that.

Honestly, watching a game like last night makes me wonder how the hell the Islander aren't even close to a playoff spot. It's a flawed team but IMO there's plenty of coaches with guys like Barzal, Lee, Tavares could have that team in the playoffs and maybe making some noise.

Looking forward to a complete cleaning of house this offseason. Just hope Tavares wants to stay.

(for MTL).

MTL and DET play twice in the final 9 games, that could be the difference in bottom 5 finish for MTL.

MTL of their 9 remaining games, has two with DET and one with BUF, the rest playoff teams.

In comment 13877194 Metnut said:

Quote:

win for the Islanders last night, but at least Hudson got to see it live so I'll take some solace in that. Honestly, watching a game like last night makes me wonder how the hell the Islander aren't even close to a playoff spot. It's a flawed team but IMO there's plenty of coaches with guys like Barzal, Lee, Tavares could have that team in the playoffs and maybe making some noise. Looking forward to a complete cleaning of house this offseason. Just hope Tavares wants to stay.

What the hell happened to Nick Leddy this year?

In comment 13877298 BrettNYG10 said:

Quote:

In comment 13877194 Metnut said: Quote: What the hell happened to Nick Leddy this year?

His decline is one of the more concerning things about this disaster of a season. I'm hoping with a new coaching staff and different system he can rebound next year.

The Isles D as a whole is such a disorganized mess that it's often hard to tell exactly what's going on. I understand that the Isles don't exactly have the best d personnel, but giving up 40, 50 shots in so many games is about more than talent.

Leddy just turned 27 yesterday, so it's unlikely that he's done and in decline.

has been brutal, but sometimes you don't know if the goalie makes them look bad, or if the forwards are bad defensively creating a lot of odd-man rushes or failed breakouts or all of the above.

but the Islanders are worst in the NHL in GAA and Shots allowed.

Not a good combo.

In comment 13877226 pjcas18 said:

Quote:

(for MTL). MTL and DET play twice in the final 9 games, that could be the difference in bottom 5 finish for MTL. MTL of their 9 remaining games, has two with DET and one with BUF, the rest playoff teams.

Lol. This post put a big smile on my face. I need that after seeing my boys blow a 3-0 lead to Tampa Bay last night.

In comment 13876852 pjcas18 said:

Quote:

In comment 13876635 5BowlsSoon said: Quote: Don�t hate me for saying this, but that list of young guys you named In my opinion are all mediocre or less. Honestly, I doubt any of those guys make you proud. No blue chippers at all and that includes AG. For your sake, I hope I�m wrong because I don�t hate the Habs just because I�m a Leafs fan......it is hard to hate a team that has not been significant for 25 years. As a Leafs fan, I know all about not being significant. Been longer than 25...... As long as you continue to have not smart people running the ship, expect a lot more disappointment. I don't hate you for saying it. I too don't hate the Leafs, I don't remember them ever being relevant in my life time even the odd years when they made the playoffs, I did see the Habs win two cups though. What the comment makes me though is to dismiss your evaluation skills and not really value your opinion on players. Alex Galchenyuk is mediocre or worse? He's the leading point scorer from the 2012 draft. In a draft that didn't have a McDavid I'll admit, but it included Forsberg, Teravainen, Athanasiou and others. He is far from average or worse He had 30 goals as a 21 year old. He's insanely skilled. and he's never played next to a #1 or even a legit center. By you saying Jonathan Drouin is average or worse doesn't make me hate you, I love hockey talk and I engage with all fans, but like I said it makes me dismiss your opinion as uninformed or makes me feel like you as a fan are as mediocre or worse with your player evals. Some of the guys like Juulsen - you have no idea about. he's a former 1st round pick whose played 14 NHL games at 20 years old - to have your opinion about him is silly, Lehkonen, Hudon, de la rose, maybe not top liners, but all are legit NHL players. Plus Mete who I didn't even name is 19. Agree about the not smart people running things though. I do like their youth though, even with no Auston Matthews in the group - you need to be much worse than the Canadiens have been (like the Leafs have been) to win that prize.

If you had METE on that list I would have excluded him because I do think you have a player in him. Juulsen may be one too.

As for AG and Drouin.....they both are lousy playing 5-5.i believe both are something like -25 so clearly they are not two way players. I strongly believe TBay dumped Drouin very quickly because they saw and know things about Drouin that made them not feel he will ever be the man he was drafted to be. Lastly, I think most Habs fans do not like Drouin and many are hoping to trade AG for a decent center. I wonder what Claude thinks about either of those two guys.

Honestly, all the other guys not mentioned above from your list are insignificant and will probably be what I said....mediocre.

is a career -46, plus minus is an outdated way to evaluate a player. Ovie was -35 in 2013-2014.

Problem is neither Galchenyuk nor Drouin are NHL centers. Which is fine, you need wings too obviously, but centers are simply more valuable. Put either of them on a line with an actual NHL center and tell me how they'd do. Who is the best center Galchenyuk has played with in his 4 years? Andrew Shaw? Philip Danault? Get the hell out of here with your half-baked analysis.

and TB trade Drouin because they didn't want to/couldn't afford to pay him and they needed D more than O. Plus he had attitude issues when sent down to the minors as a 19 year old.

If you actually watched hockey and see Drouin just have a completely different gear than everyone else on the ice and Galchenyuk shoot with the best in the league and felt they were average or worse than again, I'm fine with ignoring your player evaluation.

Both could be one-way players, but don't cite their plus minus to prove it to me.

I thought Leddy was going to be a McDonagh-type - a good #1 dman, but not a top ten one. I think he'll bounce back.

I like Galchenyuk a lot. Think MTL is hurting him, though. I like Drouin, but I don't think he's going to be an elite player.

In comment 13877553 BrettNYG10 said:

Quote:

I thought Leddy was going to be a McDonagh-type - a good #1 dman, but not a top ten one. I think he'll bounce back. I like Galchenyuk a lot. Think MTL is hurting him, though. I like Drouin, but I don't think he's going to be an elite player.

I don't think Drouin will be elite, but I do think he'll be a consistent 50+-point per year player - who is better with better talent. which basically slots you in top 100 or so offensive players in this day and age.

Far from average or worse.

My big issue with the moves the Canadians made in recent years is that they pulled forward an imaginary window. Subban for Weber, Galchenyuk for Sergachev. They weren't good enough to be a contender and still aren't. Seems like a lack of solid direction.

I also think they got worse with the Subban deal, but that's a separate discussion from my point (and one we've discussed a ton already).

I don't agree with and wouldn't have made either the Subban/weber or Drouin/Sergachev trades. we've been through that.

And I think the Canadiens would be better if they didn't make them.

But...they were (and still are) good enough to be a contender. The Rangers series last year was razor thin and I think they would have beaten OTT. Could they beat PIT or NSH? Who knows once you're in a series I wouldn't bet against anything.

Problem is they were built from Price out and when you make that your plan, you need Price to be the best goalie on the planet night in night out to be good.

he hasn't been that goalie in over two seasons.

When you're 6 points out of last place it's hard to envision yourself as a contender, but I really don't see the Habs as that far away if, big if, Price rebounds. Canadiens can have a mediocre roster, but they'll go as far as Price takes them.

likely to miss a few games, denting his chances at Richard trophy.

I think it's Ovie now, probably would have been anyway, but seeing a 19 year old win it would have been cool.

In comment 13877591 BrettNYG10 said:

Quote:

My big issue with the moves the Canadians made in recent years is that they pulled forward an imaginary window. Subban for Weber, Galchenyuk for Sergachev. They weren't good enough to be a contender and still aren't. Seems like a lack of solid direction. I also think they got worse with the Subban deal, but that's a separate discussion from my point (and one we've discussed a ton already).

100% agree on Subban for Weber.

The other one - Drouin is only 22 y.o., they were coming off a division title, and they thought they were already set defensively/goaltending, needed more scoring. Clearly - they should have saved the Sergachev chip for a 1st/2nd line Center, .... but I can still see some reasoning behind it.

that Crosby goal was insane.



Link - ( New Window )

Your boy Drouin scored tonight, and I see you got the once great Carey Price back in the nets letting in his 4-5 goals again.

Better be careful, you might get a point tonight and tie Detroit. Ha

In comment 13878886 5BowlsSoon said:

Quote:

Your boy Drouin scored tonight, and I see you got the once great Carey Price back in the nets letting in his 4-5 goals again. Better be careful, you might get a point tonight and tie Detroit. Ha

Now I see you're just trolling me. I don't mind.

No clue why Price is playing, but even with the 4 or 5 goals he'll allow tonight, he's playing well. Even though I wouldn't play him the rest of the season.

In comment 13878915 pjcas18 said:

Quote:

In comment 13878886 5BowlsSoon said: Quote: Your boy Drouin scored tonight, and I see you got the once great Carey Price back in the nets letting in his 4-5 goals again. Better be careful, you might get a point tonight and tie Detroit. Ha Now I see you're just trolling me. I don't mind. No clue why Price is playing, but even with the 4 or 5 goals he'll allow tonight, he's playing well. Even though I wouldn't play him the rest of the season.

I�m not trolling....just having intelligent hockey talk...that is why I like you. As for Price, I know it would be hard to trade him, but it would be nice if you could. You have 2-3 good guys behind him and he might be able to land you that center you so desperately want for your two boys- Drouin and AG.

I�m sure you are relieved your boys didn�t pass Detroit tonight.

for both ends of the races.

FLA vs CBJ

LAK vs COL


on the other end

EDM vs OTT
DET in action
ARI in action

I�m reading Canadiens GM, MB is safe from losing his job. That surprises me. I know you guys are limited to only French speaking GMs and Coaches, but this guy had a 5 year plan and it has been 6 years and what do you have to show for it? One of the worst teams in the NHL with not one good center on your team. And you even traded your best prospect, Sergachev, and didn�t even get a center in return to fill that huge void. How dumb is this? Do you like MB? Well, maybe luck will be with your boys and you can get the number one draft pick and get a Matthews like we did.

and partly for the reason you name. If you're going to trade Sergachev, which I am fine with, everyone is tradeable, you have to get a center back.

I think his fatal flaw is he viewed both Drouin and Galchenyuk as NHL centers. And who knows they might be, but not in a Julien/Therrien system (both coaches have the same system).

But it's easy for people like you (or I) to pile on, but completely discount or be ignorant to the fact the Drouin was one of the best centers in the history of the Q - which isn't some crappy juniors league in case you didn't know - even though it is known for finesse - it launched careers of people like Lemieux and Lafleur.

Anyway, the Maple Leafs haven't won a playoff series in 15 years and haven't reach the SCF in my lifetime, let alone win a cup, I'd worry about your own team rather than obsess over Montreal's failures.

I like the Canadiens youth and I like their prospects for the upcoming draft and I feel like they can contend as soon as next year.

But as I mentioned they really need Price to rebound or they won't contend and no I doubt they can trade Price and the players behind him (Lindgren, Fucale, McNiven) are not close to Price. At least I have not seen any evidence they are. Lindgren looks good in spots, haven't seen much of McNiven and Fucale so far hasn't come close to the hype and I wouldn't be surprised if he's no longer in the Canadiens system next year.

Not to mention getting Weber and Pacioretty back will help (if they keep Pacioretty).

in net I do like Cayden Primeau (Keith's son), but he's still at Northeastern, so who knows a) how far away he is and b) can he translate to NHL - he was a 7th round pick (I believe).

I was able to sneak down to a center ice seat, which was one of the best seats I have ever had.
Sitting there, the Barclays is fine, but overall, it just is not good for hockey which is a shame because otherwise the arena is beautiful and so so easy to get to.

In comment 13879218 pjcas18 said:

Quote:

for both ends of the races. FLA vs CBJ LAK vs COL

The Devs really need a Columbus reg. win of Florida. Its a shame we've actually survived this trip from hell at 3-2 but we're clinging to a 1 point lead. The last 2 games have been garbage efforts. Anaheim we looked worn out. SJ we didn't play well but the goaltending was atrocious. Schneider looks shot right now, unbelievably it looks like Kinkaid will be the #1 the rest of the way. We have @Pitt tomorrow and home vs. Tampa Saturday. After that the sched thankfully lightens up a bit.

In comment 13879070 baadbill said:

Quote:

Quote: Lundqvist is 4-13-2 with a 3.79 goal-against average and .897 save percentage since Jan. 20, with one win in relief and his past two victories coming in consecutive 50-save performances in Vancouver and Calgary on Feb. 28 and Mar. 2, respectively.

Looking at his post-ASG numbers, sounds about right. 4-11-2, 3.83, .899 since the break.

Detroit and Arizona came close but neither took a point. Ottawa lost too.

NSH, TBL, and BOS all clinched playoff spots (not last night, but so far).

MTL plays BUF in one of their few remaining games they'll be favored. Need to lose here.

Evan Bouchard making a lot of movement on draft boards. Always liked him, he could be the Canadiens guy at 6 if they don't crack the top 5.

Also making some movement, Finnish center: Jesperi Kotkaniemi and Canadian center Barrett Hayton. Quinn Hughes is dropping a little.

I believe this draft will be a good one.

Pummeling Nashville in Nashville.... coming off of a gut wrenching loss to TBay was very satisfying. PK who?

For those who may have missed it....the Great Matthews has returned and of course, scored a goal.

dont care.

Where we you when the Leafs sucked?

In comment 13882350 MetsAreBack said:

Quote:

dont care. Where we you when the Leafs sucked?

Hiding....

Some Habs stuff, some Barzal stuff. Nothing NYR related.
Sportsnet - ( New Window )

in the NCAA's.

St Cloud St (overall #1) losing 2 - 0 to Air Force in the 2nd.
Link - ( New Window )

In comment 13882317 5BowlsSoon said:

Quote:

For those who may have missed it....the Great Matthews has returned and of course, scored a goal.

My roommate's a Leaf's fan so I want to root for them but god you're insufferable

wins, knocks out tourney #1 overall St Cloud St.

I don't think it's that uncommon, hockey is really hard to win even as the #1 seed I think.

All 3 are on 6+ game scoring streaks. Scorching red hot.

We will pick 11th or 12th at this point.

There is some talent here - just need an alpha forward and two top 4 defenseman. Maybe can draft a D this spring and sign Tavares. Get it done Gorton.

As far as D goes ... the brendon smith signing really hurts the team moving forward. Maybe he'll be more motivated this summer or something.

and have scored 5 goals on 15 shots

(and rest of the season).

In comment 13884680 MetsAreBack said:

Quote:

We will pick 11th or 12th at this point. There is some talent here - just need an alpha forward and two top 4 defenseman. Maybe can draft a D this spring and sign Tavares. Get it done Gorton. As far as D goes ... the brendon smith signing really hurts the team moving forward. Maybe he'll be more motivated this summer or something.

You guys see Smith is out for the season after breaking his hand down at Hartford in a fight with teammate Vinny Letterri? Fitting, I think he�s done here

and it looks like one of the rare times I was right.

Pionk looked really good past couple games. I hadn't seen much of him other than last year's NCAA's.

franchises without generational stars to bail them out simply cannot afford to make. ESPECIALLY when you've already fucked up on Girardi and Staal.

I thought Gorton was more analytical in his approach, but it all points to this franchise being clueless when it comes to scouting and valuing defensemen.

Or maybe Smith got paid and became lazy as hell and/or starting sniffing nose candy. That's always possible too. Still, Detroit had healthy scratched him at times last year and ended up giving him away to us (late 2nd rounder?) - all of a sudden that is worth almost $20 million? It doesnt add up.

I was in favor of it, I think most were. He played well after coming over. I don�t know what the heck happened to him

In comment 13884682 baadbill said:

Quote:

and have scored 5 goals on 15 shots

I believe they will both be in the lineup Monday. Chytil can only play the 7 remaining games without burning a year. I guess they just wanted to bring them up together because Lias could have played the last 9.

In comment 13885037 pjcas18 said:

Quote:

and it looks like one of the rare times I was right. Pionk looked really good past couple games. I hadn't seen much of him other than last year's NCAA's.

+1 on Pionk. He's been taking full advantage of his opportunity and proving he belongs.

In comment 13885245 Rob in Rockaway said:

Quote:

In comment 13884682 baadbill said: Quote: and have scored 5 goals on 15 shots I believe they will both be in the lineup Monday. Chytil can only play the 7 remaining games without burning a year. I guess they just wanted to bring them up together because Lias could have played the last 9.

Thanks Rob. I didn't count, but for some reason I thought Sat's game was game 1 of the final 7 games. Glad to hear they haven't changed their minds - I'm looking forward to seeing them.

many teams have just 6 left.

current playoff matchups:

East:
TBL vs NJD
BOS vs TOR (hope this stays)
WAS vs PHI
PIT vs CBJ

Still alive: FLA 83 points, 3 pts behind the Devils with 2 games in hand

West:
LVG vs COL
SJS vs ANA (seems they play every year in the playoffs)
NSH vs STL
WIN vs MIN

Still alive:
LAK, tied in pts with STL, one fewer game left

DAL, 5 back, only 6 left, biggest surprise on the season for me from a futility standpoint, loved their off-season (Bishop, Radulov, Hanzal)


Looking up from the Bottom:
BUF (58 points, 7 remaining)
ARI (61 points, 7 remaining)
VAN (63 points, 6 remaining)
OTT (63 points, 8 remaining)
DET (65 points, 7 remaining)
MTL (66 points, 6 remaining)

though with the new odds, anyone can "win" the top pick.

IMO, just need to get a top 5 pick.

I find it a little confusing, but it makes sense:

The league would totally get us the top pick if we were.

It would be pretty hilarious to finish ahead of the Islanders for the 13th straight season. When we sold off at the deadline and they were all in for Tavares' last season

I think we're headed into a period of prolonged mediocrity. Not bad enough to score premium talent in the draft, not good enough to do more than scratch and claw for a low playoff seed and maybe win one round.

the Metro is so stacked this year, the top 3 teams are in the Atlantic (for now).

and the favorites are in the Atlantic (in the East).

In comment 13886512 Kyle in NY said:

Quote:

It would be pretty hilarious to finish ahead of the Islanders for the 13th straight season. When we sold off at the deadline and they were all in for Tavares' last season

Hard to say the Isles were all-in. They have two lottery picks and didn't move any of them at the deadline.

a lot is riding on the two making their debut tonight. It's clear now that they left some solid talent on the roster. Kreider looks even better since coming back from the injury. Zib is approaching 30 goals. And Hayes has had a really nice season despite heavy defensive usage.

But it's still a core group without an elite player, much like what we already had.

Can Chytil or Andersson become that guy? Just how good can Pionk be? Can Skeji bounce back from a somewhat disappointing 2nd season? And what do we get from these three first rounders?

I've given up hopes for Dahlin but can we just get a break and get into the top 3. 12.3% chance of that right now

both staying at C for now.

Quote:

Rick Carpiniello ‏ @RickCarpiniello 2m2 minutes ago So Chytil will play between Hayes and Zuccarello, Andersson will center Vesey and Spooner. Desharnais, Holland and Carey scratched. Georgiev in goal. #NYR

signed Casey Mittlestadt to an ELC, hope he plays their remaining games and spreads some enthusiasm.

he was a legit star at the world juniors and really good in the NCAA. He, Reinhart, and Eichel plus another high pick a really solid, Oilers-like, core they're building. Not to mention veteran leaders like Ryan O'Reilly.

maybe a 2019 rebuond? Obviously not a Sabres fan, but how long can they suck?

Haven't won a playoff series in 11 years and only appeared in the playoffs twice the past 10 years.

Even if you get the generational star, it doesn't always translate to success. This isn't basketball.

Wonder how long Eichel puts up with this losing.

In comment 13887049 Kyle in NY said:

Quote:

Even if you get the generational star, it doesn't always translate to success. This isn't basketball. Wonder how long Eichel puts up with this losing.

The only pass I give them is it's Housley's first year.

But Eichel just signed an 8 year $100M contract in October or November. Not sure what choice he has.

In comment 13887049 Kyle in NY said:

Quote:

Even if you get the generational star, it doesn't always translate to success. This isn't basketball. Wonder how long Eichel puts up with this losing.

No, but without that kind of player you're not going to win a Cup. The best you're likely to do is play at the level of the 2012-16 Rangers - very good team, win a bunch of playoff series, never really come close to a championship.

.

while I do agree that ultimately you need that elite talent, it's a bit disingenuous to say those teams never came close to winning it all.

If you're in the cup final, you're pretty damn close. I'll always believe they would have been the favorites to win it in 2015 if Zuccarello doesn't take that puck to the head.

In comment 13887114 BrettNYG10 said:

Quote:

.

agree.

...and then were soundly outplayed in every game....except the game they never had a chance to win. Go figure on that one.

The individual brilliance of Lundqvist kept them competitive in those games, to the point that you could say that the Rangers had a chance to win all the games they lost, but would anyone say that the better team lost? No.

game 2 in double OT and the clincher, game 5 in doubt OT.

You can deal with that whatever way you need to and I agree the better team won, but to say the Rangers weren't good enough to win the cup is probably some psychological ploy to help you deal with getting so close but losing. I don't mean that as a criticism just an opinion - and I'd maybe do the same thing in that situation.

they were mere bounces away from winning 3 of those games.

That series went 5, but 3 of the 4 Kings wins were up for grabs and while maybe the ice was tilted, I remember the Kings outshooting the Rangers, the Rangers had chances to win all those games.

Two great goalies on display that series, it was fun to watch as an unattached observer and again, even though it went 5 the teams seemed pretty evenly matched to me.

The Devs with a crazy back to back sweep of @Pitt , vs. Tampa Fri/Sat. Since New Years The Devs have been up and down week by week so the needle is pointing up but who knows. The schedule does lighten up a lot the next 9 days with Car., NYI, @Mont. and NYR but all of them can be dangerous especially if the Devs take them lightly. The Devs-Fla race probably comes down to how Tor, Nash, Wash and Bos (Florida plays them 3 times) treat their games with the 2 teams if they are locked into place.

anti-devils because of the perceived rivalry between Roy and Brodeur, but lately haven't cared at all about the Devils.

If anything this year I'd rather see the Devils make it than Florida.

Devils have the most American players in the league.

moves from on-ice officials to league ops, starting tomorrow.

I like it, I think offsides reviews need to be eliminated, it sucks when a call doesn't go your way, but it's game played by humans and officiated by humans you know going in that there is potential for human error.

As long as you can be reasonably assured refs are all on the level, then I don't think offsides review is necessary.

Goalie interference I can take it or leave it, but it needs to be consistent and it's not, this may help
link - ( New Window )

In comment 13889784 pjcas18 said:

Quote:

I like it, I think offsides reviews need to be eliminated, it sucks when a call doesn't go your way, but it's game played by humans and officiated by humans you know going in that there is potential for human error. As long as you can be reasonably assured refs are all on the level, then I don't think offsides review is necessary.

Yea I can live with the offsides review but they need to tweak the rule to make you onsides as long as your skate is above the blueline, as well as not allow a review if the defense touches the puck, or the offending player leaves the ice before the goal is scored. The goalie interference thing should help having the same group review all of them for consistency.

devils with big win, all but eliminating CAR who had a 3rd period lead.

EAST
TBL vs NJD
BOS vs TOR
WAS vs PHI
PIT vs CBJ

Still alive: FLA; 3 points behind NJD, 2 games in hand

WEST
LVG vs STL
SJS vs LAK
NSH vs ANA
WIN vs MIN

Still alive: COL, 1 point behind ANA, 1, game in hand
DAL on life support, 5 points behind ANA

A little drama, but should be good end.

At the other end of the standings:

BUF, 60 pts, 6 games left
ARI, 63 pts, 6 games left
OTT, 63 pts, 6 games left
VAN, 65 pts, 5 games left
DET, 67 pts, 5 games left
MTL, 68 pts, 5 games left

McDavid making a late push for Hart (and Ross), I think he'll get Ross, but will Hart go to him with his team being eliminated since December.

Hart obviously subjective, vs Ross which is most points, so I think Hart comes down to MacKinnon (if COL makes the PO's), Kucherov, and Malkin. I think if McDavid goes nuts the last two weeks he might get himself some votes.

Richard race tightening a little, Ovie with a 2 goal lead over Laine, 3 goal lead over Malkin, and 5 goal lead over McDavid.

In comment 13890749 pjcas18 said:

Quote:

Hart obviously subjective, vs Ross which is most points, so I think Hart comes down to MacKinnon (if COL makes the PO's), Kucherov, and Malkin. I think if McDavid goes nuts the last two weeks he might get himself some votes.

I understand the Devils get forgotten when it comes to individual awards, but if they make the playoffs Hall has to be in the top 3.

In comment 13890820 Stu11 said:

Quote:

In comment 13890749 pjcas18 said: Quote: Hart obviously subjective, vs Ross which is most points, so I think Hart comes down to MacKinnon (if COL makes the PO's), Kucherov, and Malkin. I think if McDavid goes nuts the last two weeks he might get himself some votes. I understand the Devils get forgotten when it comes to individual awards, but if they make the playoffs Hall has to be in the top 3.

I don't forget the Devils nor do I think anyone else does - every franchise has a persecution complex, when they have someone worthy of an award they win.

Hall has been great, he's not in my top 3 though. Maybe top 5. And who knows, he could win, this is just my opinion.

another year, $5M plus a potential $1.75M in additional incentives.

he turned 41 10 days ago.

As much as I hate him (sports hate) and thought he was done a couple years ago, it's amazing to see an athlete that age in an endurance sport still battling and competing at a high level.

but since the mid 90's the Devils have been seen as a defense only franchise (Even when they were near the top of the league in goals scored in 2001). Listening to NHL radio on Sirius all the time where they simulcast the Canadian shows a lot Hall is in just about everyone's top 3. I don't see how you give the Hart to anyone who has Sydney Crosby playing a full season on heir team no matter how good Malkin has been since New Year's. Kuch is great, but again there is a ton of talent on that team (Hedman can easily win the Norris). To me if they're teams make the playoffs its MacKinnon/Hall 1-2 with MacKinnon the slight nod. Thats why these arguments are fun though.

In comment 13890915 Stu11 said:

Quote:

but since the mid 90's the Devils have been seen as a defense only franchise (Even when they were near the top of the league in goals scored in 2001). Listening to NHL radio on Sirius all the time where they simulcast the Canadian shows a lot Hall is in just about everyone's top 3. I don't see how you give the Hart to anyone who has Sydney Crosby playing a full season on heir team no matter how good Malkin has been since New Year's. Kuch is great, but again there is a ton of talent on that team (Hedman can easily win the Norris). To me if they're teams make the playoffs its MacKinnon/Hall 1-2 with MacKinnon the slight nod. Thats why these arguments are fun though.

By your logic then William Karlsson should run away with the award.

Going in to the season many people, me included, had Vegas in the fight for #1 pick, not #1 seed in the playoffs or winning their division.

Devils on paper have far more talent than Vegas.

But that doesn't change the fact those other players (IMO) on my list had better years (so far) than Hall. I just don't think he has the points.

I think Hall definitely has a case for the Hart.

I've seen twitter fights over why McDavid should win it - but IMV the Ted Linsday award is for the best player, not the Hart.

I think you need to be on a playoff team to win the Hart - going from non-playoff team to a worse playoff team without you doesn't change anything.

I'm curious on others' thoughts, though.

In comment 13890932 pjcas18 said:

Quote:

By your logic then William Karlsson should run away with the award. Going in to the season many people, me included, had Vegas in the fight for #1 pick, not #1 seed in the playoffs or winning their division. Devils on paper have far more talent than Vegas.

I don't care what we thought going in to the season, but the fact is the Knights have 5 20 goal scorers, and Karlsson isn't even leading them in points, so no my logic does not apply there at all. In fact just the opposite, Hall is 36 points ahead of the next nearest point guy on the Devs. 36 points. Let that sink in for a bit.
[/quote]

have been traded. 4 of them by Chiarelli.

In comment 13891040 Stu11 said:

Quote:

In comment 13890932 pjcas18 said: Quote: By your logic then William Karlsson should run away with the award. Going in to the season many people, me included, had Vegas in the fight for #1 pick, not #1 seed in the playoffs or winning their division. Devils on paper have far more talent than Vegas. I don't care what we thought going in to the season, but the fact is the Knights have 5 20 goal scorers, and Karlsson isn't even leading them in points, so no my logic does not apply there at all. In fact just the opposite, Hall is 36 points ahead of the next nearest point guy on the Devs. 36 points. Let that sink in for a bit.

[/quote]

So what, the Devils have more 20-point scorers than the Penguins (just as an example).

Because they spread their scoring around more than other teams that means Hall should be MVP?

Plus the Devils are just about neutral in goal diff. meaning their team defense and goalie is contributing as much to their record as the offense. Not the case with the other contenders I named - except McDavid - and for him to win he'd need to go crazy this week and wind up like Lemieux when he won the Hart on a team who missed the playoffs (I think he outpaced the closest competitor by 20 pts).

Forwards who are ninth in points for teams that are barely going to make the playoffs aren't winning the Hart. That's just not how it works.

Submitted: the Predators are the 2018 equivalent of the 2014 Rangers. Great regular season team, dominant goaltending, don't have the kind of elite forwards to actually win a cup.

when we were discussing the need for top 5 picks the other day. Would like to see them win. They may not have an elite forward group but they absolutely have an elite defense. Best in the league in my opinion.

.

winning, love Subban and I don't think Laviolette gets nearly the credit he deserves as a coach. Plus his niece played on my daughters team - great family (extended family).

Most cup winners are considered elite coaches, but for some reason Lavy is underrated IMO. He's had some bad teams and bad seasons, but when you look at the style of coach, I like him.

Also agree, NSH has the best overall D in the league, but best pair I'll take Jones and Werenski in CBJ.

Plus CBJ upgraded their second pair with Cole, who has a ton of playoff experience (almost 50 playoff games the past two seasons).

In comment 13891005 pjcas18 said:

Quote:

t

Thanks for providing this chart pj......it looks to me your Habs are in a fight with Detroit mainly, but this chart shows the difference between 5th or 6th is only one percentage point, so from my way of thinking, 7.5% chance or 6.5% seems about the same to me. How about you?

PS. I don�t think Ottawa passes Habs, and the other 3 teams look to be below Habs for good too. Just Detroit.

In comment 13891496 5BowlsSoon said:

Quote:

In comment 13891005 pjcas18 said: Quote: t Thanks for providing this chart pj......it looks to me your Habs are in a fight with Detroit mainly, but this chart shows the difference between 5th or 6th is only one percentage point, so from my way of thinking, 7.5% chance or 6.5% seems about the same to me. How about you? PS. I don�t think Ottawa passes Habs, and the other 3 teams look to be below Habs for good too. Just Detroit.

agree, DET and MTL play each other again. @DET.

But that's the only real movement I see possible.

MTL finishes @ your leafs, just hopeful the Leafs have something to play for.

MTL has all playoff teams left other than the @DET game.

@PIT
NJD
WPG
@DET
@TOR

then pray for ping pong ball luck.

In comment 13891046 BrettNYG10 said:

Quote:

have been traded. 4 of them by Chiarelli.

I doubt he survives the off-season.

Isn�t that right?

I have a feeling there were as many disappointed Hab fans than happy when your boys beat Detroit a few days back.

In comment 13891524 5BowlsSoon said:

Quote:

Isn�t that right? I have a feeling there were as many disappointed Hab fans than happy when your boys beat Detroit a few days back.

It's hard to tank - I don't think any professional athletes will embrace tanking. Hockey is no different the players, the coaches, they want to win every game.

So I don't get disappointed when they win, but luckily that hasn't been too often since they were eliminated.

Dahlin is an immediate game changer, he's a top pair LD next year at 18 years old.

He's a bigger Erik Karlsson.

from Kenny Albert. I know there are no moral victories, but still impressive.

Quote:

Kenny Albert ‏Verified account @KennyAlbert 21h21 hours ago .@NYRangers fans - take a moment to appreciate the last 12 seasons. Never played a single game while out of playoff contention. 129 playoff games (2nd most in NHL since 2005-06). Six Game 7 wins. 3 Conference Finals, 1 Stanley Cup Final @MSGNetworks @DaveMaloneyMSG @TheGarden

In comment 13893293 pjcas18 said:

Quote:

from Kenny Albert. I know there are no moral victories, but still impressive. Quote: Kenny Albert ‏Verified account @KennyAlbert 21h21 hours ago .@NYRangers fans - take a moment to appreciate the last 12 seasons. Never played a single game while out of playoff contention. 129 playoff games (2nd most in NHL since 2005-06). Six Game 7 wins. 3 Conference Finals, 1 Stanley Cup Final @MSGNetworks @DaveMaloneyMSG @TheGarden

Actually that is a hell of a lot better than I ever would have guessed, and I don't think I missed even a single game over that period of time (meaning, I lived it, but didn't realize how good it was while it happened)

while you're in it.

Predators I think activated Eeli Tolvanen, kid is legit. I know he signed an ELC, I think he should debut this weekend.

Looking forward to see if he plays in the playoffs too.

He's an example of how these 17 years old can develop and over perform their draft spot. He was pick #30 last year and would probably be top 10 if that draft took place again, but a year later.

for the Blackhawks last night.

Quote:

A 36-year-old accountant made seven saves for the Chicago Blackhawks in an NHL game Thursday night. After starter Anton Forsberg was hurt during what coach Joel Quenneville described as a pregame ritual, and backup Collin Delia cramped up early in the third period, the Blackhawks turned to Scott Foster, an emergency goalie and married father of two who plays in two recreational leagues. He signed a contract, put on his gear and then, amazingly, stopped all seven shots he faced. 'A few hours ago I was sitting on the computer typing on a 10-key,' Foster said. 'Now I�m standing in front of you guys having just finished 14 and a half minutes of NHL hockey.'

lonk - ( New Window )

Can you imagine any other sport pulling an ordinary citizen out of the stands and putting him in a game?

his whole life now (or what's left of it) he's an ex-NHL player.

His rec league guys are probably pissed since many rec leagues (or at least tournaments) prohibit ex-NHL (or any level of pro) players. Maybe goalies don't count.

No one usually says anything though if one shows up in a league game b/c they're so star struck playing against pros.

We had a guy on my men's league team at 44 years old sign a 10-day ECHL contract with a team from the Cape.

He was playing against 18 - 22 years olds mostly. He held his own, hardest thing he said was going from no-check to checking after all these years. Goalies wouldn't face that though.

He's now prohibited from playing in any tournaments we enter.

asshole.

but at least he played pro.

last night (with a game in hand). If that holds the Lightning could play the Leafs round 1.

The line of Marchand, Bergeron, and Pastrnak is the best line in hockey.

I'm not even sure 2nd place is that close and it could have been last night's other great line, JT Miller, Stamkos and Kucherov.

they also played well. Miller looked really good, but they weren't close to the Bruins top line.

BUFF looks locked in for worst with 60 points, but all these are up for grabs IMO:

ARI: 65 pts, 4 left
OTT: 65 pts, 5 left
VAN: 67 pts, 4 left
MTL: 68 pts, 5 left
DET: 69 pts, 4 left

MTL and DET play each other next Thursday

VAN and ARI play each other next Thursday

OTT and DET play each other tomorrow

So there could be some shuffling at the bottom

Decent depth?

In comment 13893293 pjcas18 said:

Quote:

from Kenny Albert. I know there are no moral victories, but still impressive. Quote: Kenny Albert ‏Verified account @KennyAlbert 21h21 hours ago .@NYRangers fans - take a moment to appreciate the last 12 seasons. Never played a single game while out of playoff contention. 129 playoff games (2nd most in NHL since 2005-06). Six Game 7 wins. 3 Conference Finals, 1 Stanley Cup Final @MSGNetworks @DaveMaloneyMSG @TheGarden

Yeah well.... maybe more frustrating than enjoyable. The Flyers played in more Finals games over that span as did the Hurricanes and the Devils. Rangers fans deserve more luck than we've had

In comment 13894757 yatqb said:

Quote:

Decent depth?

I'm no scout, but I believe the top 15 is as deep as any draft the past decade.

Other than McDavid I don't think any prospect has been as NHL ready as Dahlin (I'd put Dahlin on the same level as Matthews).

And after that there are probably 3 prospects who may have gone #1 last year (Svechnikov, Zadina, Tkachuk)

and after that there's about a dozen high floor high ceiling players. Some of the best puck moving, smooth skating defensemen at the top of a draft in a long time.

Bruins making a bee line for President's Cup.

They look like the best team in the league right now. I said it above, but Pastrnak, Bergeron, and Marchand is the best line in the league right now, only close is the Pens PP1 unit of Malkin, Crosby and Kessel IMO.

Looks like they lost Carlo last night, but I doubt it matters too much. I hope they lose 1st round, but IMO they've passed NSH and TBL.

Right now they're 2 behind NSH for President's Cup with a game in hand. NSH has 4 left, B's have 5.

TBL is 3 back of NSH with 4 to play.

MTL gets some help with a VAN win, a DET win, and their own loss to PIT.

Bottom up standings are:

1. BUF, 62 pts 4 left
2. OTT, 65 pts, 4 left
3. ARI, 67 pts, 3 left
4. MTL, 68 pts, 4 left
5. VAN, 69 pts, 3 left
6. DET, 71 pts, 3 left
7. NYI, 74 pts, 3 left
8. EDM, 74 pts, 3 left
9. CHI, 74 pts, 3 left
10. NYR, 77 pts, 3 left

Current playoff matchups:

East:
BOS vs NJD
TBL vs TOR
WAS vs PHI
PIT vs CBJ

West:
NSH vs STL
WIN vs MIN
LVG vs ANA
SJS vs LAK

In the East NJD up 5 on FLA, NYR eliminated CAR last night so no one else alive

In the West, COL and STL tied in pts, STL has the tiebreaker.

DAL 4 back with 3 left, on life support.

COL and STL play on the last day of the season for both (next Saturday). Hope it's meaningful.

Think Marchand gets any games for the crosscheck to McDonald's face?

In comment 13896236 JayBinQueens said:

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Think Marchand gets any games for the crosscheck to McDonald's face?

Never know. Could be because it's Marchand and he's always deserving of a suspension IMO because of history any time anything borderline happens.

but that looked a little embellished to me. I don't think it's as bad as MacDonald made it seem.

I've stopped trying to predict league discipline at this point. I don't think the Bruins would mind so much if he's suspended for the last couple regular season games. I doubt he suspended for a playoff game. but with his history he won't (and shouldn't) get the benefit of the doubt. So who knows.

Canadiens outplay NJD all game, caught sleeping as a 5 on 3 pp turned to 5 on 4 and give up the SH.

come away with no points.

pretty sure they wind up top 5 heading in to the lottery.

to give you a sense of how snakebit Rangers fans are this year, the Rangers have been *badly* outshot/high quaity chanced in 13 of their past 16 games. Gorton did everything he could to get this team to lose -- Buffalo doubled our scoring chances for Christ's sake last weekend. ....Yet they are 7-7-2 in that stretch anyway.

For most teams, that will equate to a nice long losing streak that has you drafting in the top 5. But no Sir, not your 2017-2018 New York Rangers... these assholes keep pulling horseshoes out their ass to win meaningless hockey and end up picking 10th.

Since the Western Canada trip and excluding Tampa and Washington, since they're elite teams - i'm talking the 12 other games played against good/mediocre competition:

7-3-2 record
42% shots for/against (343 shots for, 481 shots against)
40 shots against/night on average against these teams
Ridiculous 92.5% save percentage
Very high 12% shot percentage

Consider this year's Carolina series. The Rangers went 4-0 in these games, winning all 4 in regulation. This despite over 4 games, Carolina posted 151 shots to the Rangers 93!

So, Carolina's shot percentage was 4%... the Rangers was 20% (adjusting for 3 empty net goals, NYR shot percentage was 18%)

The Rangers, the numbers show above, have been one of the worst statistical teams in hockey - even against bad teams like Buffalo, Carolina, Vancouver - they are badly outplayed.... yet they keep fucking winning. Hate this team.

In comment 13896700 MetsAreBack said:

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to give you a sense of how snakebit Rangers fans are this year, the Rangers have been *badly* outshot/high quaity chanced in 13 of their past 16 games. Gorton did everything he could to get this team to lose -- Buffalo doubled our scoring chances for Christ's sake last weekend. ....Yet they are 7-7-2 in that stretch anyway. For most teams, that will equate to a nice long losing streak that has you drafting in the top 5. But no Sir, not your 2017-2018 New York Rangers... these assholes keep pulling horseshoes out their ass to win meaningless hockey and end up picking 10th. Since the Western Canada trip and excluding Tampa and Washington, since they're elite teams - i'm talking the 12 other games played against good/mediocre competition: 7-3-2 record 42% shots for/against (343 shots for, 481 shots against) 40 shots against/night on average against these teams Ridiculous 92.5% save percentage Very high 12% shot percentage Consider this year's Carolina series. The Rangers went 4-0 in these games, winning all 4 in regulation. This despite over 4 games, Carolina posted 151 shots to the Rangers 93! So, Carolina's shot percentage was 4%... the Rangers was 20% (adjusting for 3 empty net goals, NYR shot percentage was 18%) The Rangers, the numbers show above, have been one of the worst statistical teams in hockey - even against bad teams like Buffalo, Carolina, Vancouver - they are badly outplayed.... yet they keep fucking winning. Hate this team.

goaltending? Has Hank or whoever plays goalie, just been great and opposing goalies bad?

goalie play is the big equalizer in PDO.

Canadiens all year had a very low PDO (98.2%) - they are 3rd worst, BUF and CAR a ridiculous sub 98% to be top 2.

but...MTL has by far the league's lowest shooting % at 6.6%. I believe 9% is considered typical (for a team).

I don't know if there is a way to see it for games since the deadline.

But the Rangers today are bottom half in both PDO and shooting %. I imagine higher since the deadline which you wouldn't expect - and to your point they've played some unlucky teams.

twins to retire after the season.

They were selected #2 and #3 in the 1999 NHL draft, after Patrik Stefan (ATL) and just ahead of Pavl Brendl (NYR).

Maybe worst draft ever?

Funny thing was in reading whatever pre-draft materials you can find on the 1999 draft it was regarded as one of the deepest drafts of that time.

So much for projecting the jump to the NHL.

last night. pulled it out dominating the 3rd. Devs magic # is 4 points either way with them and Florida. Would rather avoid Boston, but just want to be involved with playoff hockey again.

In comment 13896950 Stu11 said:

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last night. pulled it out dominating the 3rd. Devs magic # is 4 points either way with them and Florida. Would rather avoid Boston, but just want to be involved with playoff hockey again.

I don't even think they dominated the 3rd other than I guess the only place that matters, the scoreboard.

1st goal was good, and Price made a couple ridiculous pp saves, but MTL had the better scoring chances for the period. The SH goal was the difference and it worked out perfectly. for both teams.

In comment 13887084 Greg from LI said:

Quote:

In comment 13887049 Kyle in NY said: Quote: Even if you get the generational star, it doesn't always translate to success. This isn't basketball. Wonder how long Eichel puts up with this losing. No, but without that kind of player you're not going to win a Cup. The best you're likely to do is play at the level of the 2012-16 Rangers - very good team, win a bunch of playoff series, never really come close to a championship.

They came within a couple of bounces of winning 2-3 games in the finals. That's the very definition of close.

Yes, the games were close on the scoreboard. That didn't reflect what was actually happening on the ice.

Oh look, Penguins and Jackets again. Oh look, Sharks and Ducks again. These matchups are getting tiresome year after year

Just checking the standings for the first time in a month.. wasn't TBL up like 8-10 points on Boston?

In comment 13897027 Giants in 07 said:

Quote:

Oh look, Penguins and Jackets again. Oh look, Sharks and Ducks again. These matchups are getting tiresome year after year Just checking the standings for the first time in a month.. wasn't TBL up like 8-10 points on Boston?

agree on playoff format, but for a different reason, it's less rewarding to the division winners with the current format. There should be no 2nd and 3rd place slots for each division.

It should be more like the NFL, division winners and then everyone else gets ranked in 3 - 8 by points (with tiebreakers). Division winner 1 plays team 8, division winner 2 plays team 7, then team ranked 3 plays 6 and 4 plays 5. And they should be re-seeded for the next round.


So far, Bettman has even been resistant to avoid expanding the playoffs even as they expand to 32 teams, though I think eventually if the $$$ show a case to be made for playoff expansion they will.

I don't hate the current format, just think division winners need more of a reward, though in hockey I'm not sure it's a huge reward, any of these teams can beat each other. but you'd hope the 7 games series offsets the any given game angle.

COL leaped STL and that shifted some west matchups.

everything else remains the same.

Tonight is big.

a lot of teams active, though the East is almost set, only FLA still alive, trailing NJD by 5 with 4 to play.

Most teams have 2 or 3 games left, only ones with 4 left are BOS and FLA.

picks up puck from final Senators home game.

Indication he's done in Ottawa?

TSN announcers suggesting Edmonton wins lottery, of course they have no way of knowing they were just suggesting it as an opinion or conjecture, but Buffalo has lost two lotteries where they were last (Ekblad and McDavid, losing Dahlin to Edmonton would be classic Buffalo).

And seeing Dahlin and McDavid on a power play together would be insane. Imagine that team with Taylor Hall and Barzal.

Surprised Chiarelli hasn't been fired.

He's traded away, Seguin, Kessel, Hall, Barzal (pick), and more and the returns have been pretty bad.

.

(great story by the way about him, seems like a good dude - google the 21st duck Katie Hawley), and Justin Schultz, Jordan Eberle.

just among all-stars.


He did manage a few decent trades, but holy shit this guy is not who I want negotiating with other teams and I'm amazed he still has a job.

and that was one of his better returns....eeesh

In comment 13897922 pjcas18 said:

Quote:

picks up puck from final Senators home game. Indication he's done in Ottawa? TSN announcers suggesting Edmonton wins lottery, of course they have no way of knowing they were just suggesting it as an opinion or conjecture, but Buffalo has lost two lotteries where they were last (Ekblad and McDavid, losing Dahlin to Edmonton would be classic Buffalo). And seeing Dahlin and McDavid on a power play together would be insane. Imagine that team with Taylor Hall and Barzal. Surprised Chiarelli hasn't been fired. He's traded away, Seguin, Kessel, Hall, Barzal (pick), and more and the returns have been pretty bad.

The Barzal pick was for who?

.

The Barzal pick was acquired for Griffin Reinhart.

Anthony Beauvillier and Mat Barzal for Reinhart.

In comment 13898249 pganut said:

Quote:

Anthony Beauvillier and Mat Barzal for Reinhart.

And yet they're still terrible

Pick #16 and their 2nd round pick which the Islanders wound up packaging to move back into the 1st.

In the end it was pretty much:

Matthew Barzal and Anthony Beauvillier to the Islanders for Griffin Reinhart (a busted #4 overall pick).

Of course you can 2nd guess it a little, Edmonton may not have taken Barzal, but Barzal dropped 7 or 8 slots from his projected draft spot.

In comment 13898253 Greg from LI said:

Quote:

In comment 13898249 pganut said: Quote: Anthony Beauvillier and Mat Barzal for Reinhart. And yet they're still terrible

And water is wet, Captain Obvious!

several people responded before me on that one.

I do wonder if we see Tavares and Karlsson move this off-season.

Karlsson I'm pretty sure is going to be dealt. he has a modified NTC, but I bet he'd waive it completely.

Tavares I think is 60/40 he stays, but who knows.

In comment 13898261 pjcas18 said:

Quote:

several people responded before me on that one. I do wonder if we see Tavares and Karlsson move this off-season. Karlsson I'm pretty sure is going to be dealt. he has a modified NTC, but I bet he'd waive it completely. Tavares I think is 60/40 he stays, but who knows.

The biggest thing was Tavares-there is no obvious great landing spot.
He isn't likely to sign elsewhere just to be on another medoicre team.
There just doesn't seem to be any good team, with cap space, to sign him unless I am mistaken.

status IMO.

And a top 10 player like Tavares helps that status swing to positive pretty easily with the right group of players. I mean it's not like the Islanders are serious contenders with Tavares today.

Rangers, Canadiens, Vegas, Devils, Jets, etc. all have room to sign Tavares - depending on their own players they need to re-sign.

plus many more teams. even the Bruins, Lightning or Oilers.

We have so little to say this year - the fact that the Isles are just as bad as we are, slightly worse even, is all we have!!

but it would be interesting if the Devils made a push to trade for Karlsson. They have the prospect chips, plenty of cap room and desperately need a #1 Dman.

for the team who drafts Dahlin to also acquire Karlsson.

RD/LD pairing of some of Sweden's best.

Erik is 10 years Rasmus senior, but it would be cool (IMO) to see then play together.

Unlikely to happen with Karlsson having a limited NTC, but maybe if someone like EDM wins the lottery and gets Dahlin they could trade some youth/picks for Karlsson.

Would be ridiculous seeing McDavid, Karlsson and Dahlin together.

In comment 13898459 pjcas18 said:

Quote:

status IMO. And a top 10 player like Tavares helps that status swing to positive pretty easily with the right group of players. I mean it's not like the Islanders are serious contenders with Tavares today. Rangers, Canadiens, Vegas, Devils, Jets, etc. all have room to sign Tavares - depending on their own players they need to re-sign. plus many more teams. even the Bruins, Lightning or Oilers.

He's not going to leave to go another medoicre/middling or re-building team.
That pretty much leaves nobody (Tampa doesn't have the cap space).

In comment 13898593 Rover said:

Quote:

In comment 13898459 pjcas18 said: Quote: status IMO. And a top 10 player like Tavares helps that status swing to positive pretty easily with the right group of players. I mean it's not like the Islanders are serious contenders with Tavares today. Rangers, Canadiens, Vegas, Devils, Jets, etc. all have room to sign Tavares - depending on their own players they need to re-sign. plus many more teams. even the Bruins, Lightning or Oilers. He's not going to leave to go another medoicre/middling or re-building team. That pretty much leaves nobody (Tampa doesn't have the cap space).

First of all you have no idea what Tavares will or won't do. None of us, to the best of my knowledge, does.

But your declaration of fact is that he'll stay with Islanders, who are by all accounts mediocre, instead of going to another mediocre team where he may prefer to play and really may not be mediocre.

That makes no sense.

I agree the Islanders are the favorite because he's there now, but they have exclusive negotiating opportunities with him (and have had for the past n years) and he hasn't signed an extension with them. That says something.

And right now TB is projected to have between 8 and 12M in space for 2018-2019.

They can sign Tavares without doing anything or can move/buyout players.

In comment 13898613 pjcas18 said:

Quote:

In comment 13898593 Rover said: Quote: In comment 13898459 pjcas18 said: Quote: status IMO. And a top 10 player like Tavares helps that status swing to positive pretty easily with the right group of players. I mean it's not like the Islanders are serious contenders with Tavares today. Rangers, Canadiens, Vegas, Devils, Jets, etc. all have room to sign Tavares - depending on their own players they need to re-sign. plus many more teams. even the Bruins, Lightning or Oilers. He's not going to leave to go another medoicre/middling or re-building team. That pretty much leaves nobody (Tampa doesn't have the cap space). First of all you have no idea what Tavares will or won't do. None of us, to the best of my knowledge, does. But your declaration of fact is that he'll stay with Islanders, who are by all accounts mediocre, instead of going to another mediocre team where he may prefer to play and really may not be mediocre. That makes no sense. I agree the Islanders are the favorite because he's there now, but they have exclusive negotiating opportunities with him (and have had for the past n years) and he hasn't signed an extension with them. That says something. And right now TB is projected to have between 8 and 12M in space for 2018-2019. They can sign Tavares without doing anything or can move/buyout players.

It's been widely acknowledged Tavares is pretty loyal with the idea he isn't going to leave just to go another mediocre team.
Second, Tampa does not have the cap space to sign him unless they plan on not re-signing some other key players in a year or two. Long term it does not work out.

It seems to me the NHL trade deadline trades are both not as frequent nor do they help the team buying that much. The nhl trade deadline may end up being another nfl trade deadline.....boring and insignificant.

Well, at least the MLB trade deadline has some excitement to it.

has only 7 players under contract to 2019 - 2020 and just $36M committed today, so what are you talking about long-term it won't work?

Second, you have no idea how much the cap will go up.

Third, the CBA expires in 2020, so most teams are taking the approach of who cars what happens after that from a contract standpoint in anticipation of a work stoppage/reset.

Plus, I don't agree it's been widely "acknowledged", but I prefer to say it's been widely "speculated" that Tavares is loyal. he hasn't had options yet.

Until then no one knows.

Lastly, in the NHL teams the line between mediocrity and contender is very thin, and you fail to acknowledge that.

The Senators were a game 7 2OT game away from going to the cup last year, they lost no one (until trading Turris for Duchene and that was supposed to be an upgrade), and are closer to the bottom than the top this year.

Winnipeg is one of the best teams in the league this year, so is Tampa after missing the playoffs last year.

Tavares will have a lot of options as good or better than the Islanders (as well as some worse)

And mediocrity of the team is not something I think that would sway him, more the talent on the roster, the location, the coach/front office, etc....and of course the money.

and have another long term contract?
I just don't see any real viable front runner.
Winnipeg?
He is not signing there, and they have issues with Laine needing a new deal.

Toronto would have been the obvious choice, but they have cap issues (Nylander and JVR).

suggests Rangers and Vegas as two Karlsson destinations.

If...the Rangers decide they can contend with the youth movement.

4 points already tonight, the game winner Sunday, another 9 game scoring streak and 93 points

In comment 13899117 Stu11 said:

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4 points already tonight, the game winner Sunday, another 9 game scoring streak and 93 points

If he finishes this hot, maybe.

at this point he's not the Hart winner - with my vote - if I had one.

In comment 13899130 pjcas18 said:

Quote:

In comment 13899117 Stu11 said: Quote: 4 points already tonight, the game winner Sunday, another 9 game scoring streak and 93 points If he finishes this hot, maybe. at this point he's not the Hart winner - with my vote - if I had one.

Curious PJ who gets your vote?

I gotta hand it to your Habs....they are all in for Dahlin. Looking at their lineup looks like an AHL team, and they are making a serious bid for third place. Congrats..... Go Habs Go......keep losing two more games after today. I hope my Leafs suit up a decent lineup for Saturday�s game.

In comment 13899174 Stu11 said:

Quote:

In comment 13899130 pjcas18 said: Quote: In comment 13899117 Stu11 said: Quote: 4 points already tonight, the game winner Sunday, another 9 game scoring streak and 93 points If he finishes this hot, maybe. at this point he's not the Hart winner - with my vote - if I had one. Curious PJ who gets your vote?

McDavid.

Hall has 14 fewer points and Hall has 34 of his points on the PP.

that's insane. McDavid has only 18, the rest 5v5 or SH.

MacKinnon would be 2nd for me and Kopitar 3rd. He won't get the votes, but Kopitar's 2-way game is among the best, if not the best in the league.

MacKinnon has a 1.31 PPG, the last time anyone was anywhere near that on the leader board in pts was Crosby 5 years ago in a strike shortened season.

two of Hall, Malkin, or Kucherov round out my top 5.

and if I wasn't a purist who felt goalies can't win Hart even though many have, I'd put Rinne in my top 5 and knock out one of those three.

In comment 13899364 pjcas18 said:

Quote:

McDavid. Hall has 14 fewer points and Hall has 34 of his points on the PP. that's insane. McDavid has only 18, the rest 5v5 or SH. MacKinnon would be 2nd for me and Kopitar 3rd. He won't get the votes, but Kopitar's 2-way game is among the best, if not the best in the league. MacKinnon has a 1.31 PPG, the last time anyone was anywhere near that on the leader board in pts was Crosby 5 years ago in a strike shortened season. two of Hall, Malkin, or Kucherov round out my top 5. and if I wasn't a purist who felt goalies can't win Hart even though many have, I'd put Rinne in my top 5 and knock out one of those three.

Mckinnon is very fair, and I've said before he'd probably be my choice if they make the playoffs. Kopitar is very fair too as he has quietly had his best season for the Kings, and I agree on the 2-way thing it will be interesting to see if he gets the Selke (though I think they'll give it to Bergeron). Its very fair to Have Hall #3. McDavid no way. Can't agree with you there. He may be the best player in the game, but no way I can give the league MVP to a guy who's team hasn't sniffed a playoff chance in 3 months.

They haven't been close in months. Hall, Mackinnon, and even Giroux are good choices. TB would still be great without Kucherov, so I don't think I'd give it to him.

when his team missed the playoffs or was out of contention - and the Penguins finished dead last (1987-1988) - though in fairness it was only 7 point spread from 1st to last in the Patrick that year. I think he lead all point scorers by 19 points.

So, with McDavid being the best player on a team without much going for it, I have no problem giving him Hart.

Right now, in an era with tighter scoring (goals per game is almost half now what it was then) McDavid has a 15 pt lead on 2nd place.

I admit though, I love watching him play. I used to believe that if Gretzky played today he'd still be the great one, but now, I am having doubts.

McDavid is the first player I have seen that I feel like wow, Gretzky is outclassed by this guy. And it made me think and the more I thought about it given all the changes in goalie equipment, talent, size, speed, etc. what Ovechkin and Crosby and Laine and a handful of others are doing, Gretzky probably wouldn't do better than them today with his size and skill set.

anyway that's digressing.

I have no problem voting for McDavid even with his team out of the playoff race most of the season. It's close though. If Hall wins it, I'm not going to feel like he didn't deserve it or that anyone was robbed, he just doesn't get my vote and as I mentioned it's partly because of the percent of his points on the PP vs McDavid - and the point disparity.

In comment 13899565 BrettNYG10 said:

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They haven't been close in months. Hall, Mackinnon, and even Giroux are good choices. TB would still be great without Kucherov, so I don't think I'd give it to him.

I'm not sure I buy that about Kucherov. I don't think he should win Hart, but TB wasn't great last year with him, so why penalize him b/c they are good this year. If that talent was so great, why weren't they in the playoffs last year.

they had pretty much the same team all year until the deadline minus Drouin for Sergachev. and Kunitz I guess if you want to get technical.

One guy overlooked and I don't think he should necessarily be in the discussion for Hart is Ovechkin. If they could somehow normalize eras I wonder how his goal-scoring would hold up in the mid-80's.

In comment 13900041 pjcas18 said:

Quote:

In comment 13899565 BrettNYG10 said: Quote: They haven't been close in months. Hall, Mackinnon, and even Giroux are good choices. TB would still be great without Kucherov, so I don't think I'd give it to him. I'm not sure I buy that about Kucherov. I don't think he should win Hart, but TB wasn't great last year with him, so why penalize him b/c they are good this year. If that talent was so great, why weren't they in the playoffs last year. they had pretty much the same team all year until the deadline minus Drouin for Sergachev. and Kunitz I guess if you want to get technical. One guy overlooked and I don't think he should necessarily be in the discussion for Hart is Ovechkin. If they could somehow normalize eras I wonder how his goal-scoring would hold up in the mid-80's.

Umm Stamkos missed almost the whole year. And some of these other kids hadn't exploded onto the scene yet. They are phenomenal at building within

I forgot about Stamkos. Still don't think that should impact Kucherov. Gretzky would routinely win Hart trophies with Messier, Kurri, Coffey and Tikanen on his team among others.

its not like most of us didnt call this two/three years ago. He's been horrible for a long time. Most of us Rangers fans were livid with the Hall trade at the time it happened - it wasnt difficult to see how lopsided that was.

And absolutely no reason to make the deal either - its not like in year 2 of McDavid they had to go all-in and shore up their need at defense. It'd be like the Giants drafting Fitzpatrick #2 overall because they want to shore up their need at Cornerback. Insane and cannot believe he hasnt been fired yet.

In comment 13900566 MetsAreBack said:

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its not like most of us didnt call this two/three years ago. He's been horrible for a long time. Most of us Rangers fans were livid with the Hall trade at the time it happened - it wasnt difficult to see how lopsided that was. And absolutely no reason to make the deal either - its not like in year 2 of McDavid they had to go all-in and shore up their need at defense. It'd be like the Giants drafting Fitzpatrick #2 overall because they want to shore up their need at Cornerback. Insane and cannot believe he hasnt been fired yet.

I was hoping the Canadiens could get Ryan Nugent-Hopkins from the Oilers before Chiarelli is fired, but it's not like Bergevin has the best trade history either.

So I'd be a little nervous if they did as to what MTL would have to give up.

Quote:

NHL Public Relations ‏Verified account @PR_NHL 1m1 minute ago There are seven rookies with at least 20 goals apiece this season. Only two campaigns since 1990-91 have featured more than seven 20-goal rookies: 1992-93 (12) and 2005-06 (11). #NHLStats

2005-2006 was Crosby and Ovechkin, etc. 1992-1993 was Selanne, Lindros, etc.

in the lottery race. They must lose these two games by any means possible.

I haven't been pushing the tank as hard as others. I've appreciated the effort the young kids and the holdovers have been putting in, while knowing that it's probably not for the best.

But they must lose these two games.

Last home game as an islander tonight!!! Great times

That'll do the trick.

That stupid western Canada road trip is going to annoy me for a long time unless they hit the lottery jackpot.

which I guess is a good thing.

So tell me if I have this right.

The top 3 picks are picked out of ping pong balls, and every team who misses the playoffs has a shot at them, and then after that, the teams pick in the reverse order they finish, so if that's right then if the Canadiens (for example) finish 5th worst, then the worst they could pick would be 8th if none of the teams worse than them get the top 3 picks?

Is that right or is it all a lottery to determine 1 - 15?

after that it's in reverse order. So if the Rangers finish 10th the only spots they could pick in are 10 or lower, or in the top 3.

So when the lottery is happening and they get to the spot your team is supposed to be in, and they don't come up, you'll know you've hit it big and are moving into at least the top 3

you could drop as many as 3 spots, stay where you are, or move into the top 3

IMO if you my team misses out on Dahlin, just stay in the top 8 or so, even top 10 is good this year.

But the more I see of Dahlin the more I agree, he's McDavid on D, he's Bobby Orr or Erik Karlsson.

Hence why the Rangers have got to lose out.

Montreal tanked very well, credit where it's due

since Ewing in 1985. It's about time that changed.

In comment 13901114 Kyle in NY said:

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Hence why the Rangers have got to lose out. Montreal tanked very well, credit where it's due

well instead of trading their players they had injuries (Weber Pacioretty, Danault, Price missed 37 games), so it was easier for the Habs.

If MTL make it to the top 3 or stays at 5 they'll get a great prospect (not a McDavid) but as good a player at the top of the draft outside of McDavid in the past decade IMO.

Tkachuk, Svechnikov, Zadina - any of them I'd be thrilled - the D's (Boqvist, Hughes, Dobson, etc.), so many options even if they miss Dahlin.

If the Canadiens (or anyone) somehow get lucky and win the lottery, and they don't take Dahlin, it would be grounds for switching teams.

In comment 13901076 KWhite2250 said:

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Last home game as an islander tonight!!! Great times

See if he picks up the puck out of the net after the buzzer like Karlsson did.

In comment 13901076 KWhite2250 said:

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Last home game as an islander tonight!!! Great times

I'm starting to really think that he's leaving. It's incredibly depressing and embarrassing how much this front office and coaching staff have blown it all. A post-Tavares future for the Islanders with a new front office isn't completely hopeless but I don't think I'm ready to really think deeply about it yet.

and if someone is taking him in the top 4, we should all welcome that as it means it's moving a potentially better player down a slot to the Rangers and maybe Montreal.

Don't get me wrong, he's a good prospect. If the Rangers stayed at 10 and got him there I'd be happy. But his numbers this season really were underwhelming for someone being hyped as a potential top 3 pick.

8 goals 23 assists in 40 games. I recognize he's at college earlier than most as he hasn't even been drafted yet. But Eichel put up 26 goals and 45 assists in the same scenario, at the same school. Now Eichel is a generational player. Not expecting Tkachuk to match that. But maybe split the difference if we're going to be hyping him up so much.

I think the last name is carrying him just a bit.

as you say.

Tkachuk, while immensely skilled, is more a cycle/physical player.

I've said before it may seem lazy, but his father is a good comparison (score 50 goals and rack up 200 PIMS type). Maybe even a bigger Marchand.

He was captain of the USNTDP as the 2nd youngest player on it - and they went on to win gold in the world juniors.

He's the 2nd youngest player in NCAA hockey.

he's 6'3 200 pounds as a 18 year old.

I would love Tkachuk on the Canadiens and feel like teams who pass him over will look back and say "our team is missing a player like Tkachuk"

combinations of skill and physicality are throwbacks, true rare breeds in this era.

Peter Forsberg comes to mind too.

Just questioning the upside. 54 points in his second year with the USDP, his brother put up 95 at the same age on that team.

Now if he's a 50 point NHL player that plays a physical game and is a potential future captain, that's a very valuable piece. But if you're picking 4th, I think you might be looking for just a bit more.

I think there could be 4 or 5 first pair defensemen available in the top 10. I'm more intrigued by those guys if I'm in the top 6 or 7

Disclaimer: I've just been doing some cursory research since the Rangers sold off. Not proclaiming to be some super scout breaking down each game for these kids. So I recognize I may be talking out of my ass here.

my opinion comes solely from watching these guys play when I can. I saw most of these draft prospects over the past few years all the way back to U16 tourneys.

these are against players their own age, and sometimes I think that's a better gauge than NCAA or even juniors for some players.

Tkachuk dominated when I saw him. Clearly.

I'd take Dahlin, Zadina and Svechnikov (in either order) and then Tkachuk before the other D.

If the other D (Boqvist and Hughes really) had Dahlin's size I might adjust, but for now that's my top 4.

Bouchard and Dobson are different, they're prototypical D (from a size standpoint), and I like Boqvist and Hughes, but it's hard for me as a non-scout to know if they're more Charlie McAvoy or more Torrey Krug. I hate to use Bruins comps so much, but it's easy to do, but I really hate Torrey Krug's game while it's easy to admit he's a smooth skater and offensively skilled (a true asset on the PP), but lacks defensively and physically.

really are an interesting group. Like you said, a mix of styles. Two guys on the small side in Hughes and Boqvist, dynamic skaters with tremendous offensive upside. And then two that fit that prototype in Bouchard and Dobson.

I'd like to get a better feel for them leading up to the draft. I'm guessing they should be in range for NYR

we simply have to take a regulation loss tonight. Have to.

If we win we lock up #10.

If we lose in regulation, we could easily move up to 8th and Edmonton is a fucking disgrace how bad they've played down the stretch (1 point in 5 games... i'm jealous at their execution of the Tank), but maybe just maybe they can grab two home wins to end their season (which better end with a Firing of Chiarelli)

MTL clinches a bottom 5 finish.

and they finish up Saturday @TOR, so hopefully the Leafs have something to play for and puts out a decent lineup.

MTL has an outside shot at catching OTT for 2nd worst.

on the Hughes family - Quinn is in this draft and his brother Jack is the favorite right now to go #1 in 2019 and they have a younger brother Luke who is a couple years away form being draft eligible.

I do think the Tkachuk's will have 3 first round players if you count Keith since Matthew and Brady will both be 1st round. In this case though, maybe they mean just the kids, not the parent.
Meet the Hughes Brothers - ( New Window )

LOL, another loss to the Isles.

Doesn't matter at all but the complete ownership that team has had over the Rangers recently is staggering.

I believe that is now 10 times in the last 11 tries they've beaten us.

In comment 13902226 arcarsenal said:

Quote:

LOL, another loss to the Isles. Doesn't matter at all but the complete ownership that team has had over the Rangers recently is staggering. I believe that is now 10 times in the last 11 tries they've beaten us.

And the Rangers needed those losses, so even by winning it's lolisles

suck it, Fish

This year, yes - absolutely.

They've been kicking our asses for a while now, though.

It'll be different next year when Tavares is a Ranger.

Also, hi Davidson!

In comment 13902236 arcarsenal said:

Quote:

This year, yes - absolutely. They've been kicking our asses for a while now, though. It'll be different next year when Tavares is a Ranger. Also, hi Davidson!

hey buddy, how you?

I'm just chillin, reppin my launch angle..

In comment 13902260 Davisian said:

Quote:

In comment 13902236 arcarsenal said: Quote: This year, yes - absolutely. They've been kicking our asses for a while now, though. It'll be different next year when Tavares is a Ranger. Also, hi Davidson! hey buddy, how you? I'm just chillin, reppin my launch angle..

You know, just keeping my fuckin' launch angle on point as always. Showing the wimmins what exit velocity is really like.

In comment 13902265 arcarsenal said:

Quote:

In comment 13902260 Davisian said: Quote: In comment 13902236 arcarsenal said: Quote: This year, yes - absolutely. They've been kicking our asses for a while now, though. It'll be different next year when Tavares is a Ranger. Also, hi Davidson! hey buddy, how you? I'm just chillin, reppin my launch angle.. You know, just keeping my fuckin' launch angle on point as always. Showing the wimmins what exit velocity is really like.

Statcast pimps gotta statcast..

7th in the lottery is now realistic

Is that right?

.

last night, all they needed was to lose even in OT and it would have been fine.

Now with a regulation W against a Leafs team with nothing to play for they can finish outside the top 5.

To help us out.

loss, or at worst an OT win (if MTL beats TOR).

I also need the Islanders to lose to DET.

and then best case ARI beats ANA

and if these things happens:

1. MTL lose to TOR
2. ARI beats ANA

MTL finishes 3rd worst.

if MTL wins then I need:

VAN and DET to at least get 1 point then it comes down to tiebreakers.

Picks.

Or maybe just 8 and 9 will, and the Flames will be the third team to win.

now these fuckstains better not blow this on Saturday. While it would be fun on some level to KO Philly from a playoff berth, it would also take 2 Florida victories combined by a Philly regulation loss for it to happen, and that's a long shot.

Thankfully, Florida won last night and keeps the pressure on Philly who must collect a point saturday afternoon to clinch a postseason berth.

So lose in regulation and hope Chicago can scratch out two points in its last two games and Edmonton can take care of Vancouver at home and we're looking at 7th pick - which also improves our odds of landing in the top 3 to 20.5% from 16% currently.

Whatever you do ... do not win Saturday. That could push us back to 10th which only has 11% odds.

we'll "win" the tiebreaker against Chicago (less ROW, went 0-2 head to head).. so we just need them to get one more point.

Would lose it to Edmonton if they OTL and we lose - same ROW, went 2-0 vs them... so we'll need them to beat Vancouver at home.

Its so much fun rooting for all my teams draft positions the past year instead of looking forward to playoffs... but hey, Mets are 5-1 --

but interesting, Notre Dame beats Michigan to advance to the NCAA hockey finals vs Minnesota Duluth tomorrow night at 7:30.

Quote:

Evan Sporer ‏ @ev_sporer The NHL just announced there�s a scenario in which the Flyers and Panthers would have to play a tie-breaking game. It�s complicated, and 100% what everyone should be rooting for:

Draft position uber alles

2009 - 2010 when the Flyers beat the Rangers on the last day of the season to knock the Rangers out of the playoffs and he wants revenge. (or something like that)

Clearly he's not on board with the tankathon.

he understands the youth movement "late this year" but that next year the franchise needs to get back to winning.

I get it - an athlete should always try hard, but if he's saying these things to try and get fans/media to pressure Gorton to win now... then I love you Hank .... but move the fuck on and waive your NMC. This team isnt even close... not even close... to contending again.

I posted stats the other day, maybe above on this thread, that even over the last month when our record isnt that bad... this teams metrics are absolutely brutal.

If we're quiet this offseason, and we should be, I'm very confident we can land a top 3 pick next summer. This team right now is.. really, really.. bad. Its just a damn fuckin' shame we won so many fluke games throughout the season, and especially the last month while being pinned in our own end for 60%+ of those games.

Went 4-0 against Carolina despite them DOUBLING our shot totals in those games. Hank would actually be a nice fit for them, by the way. With adequate goaltending let alone Hank level - Carolina is easily a playoff team.

hell the fuck no. Just win in regulation tomorrow and wrap this up, Philly.

Florida already has to play a makeup game sunday night at like 9pm on the road in Boston for a snowstorm a few months back... they'd have nothing in the tank for a 1 game playoff anyway.

is supposed to be Matthews-esque.

not Dahlin/McDavid class from what I've heard so far, I have not seen him much yet to have my own opinion, but nonetheless he's the #1 prospect right now for 2019.

it's hard to tank in hockey. the players and coaches won't do it, so you just have to hope the opponent has something to play for and let's face it if you're in this position you haven't been a good team all year, so tanking shouldn't be required.

but the players, even if they embrace a rebuild, won't lay down.

his numbers are sick and he's young... but i've also read he's 5' 10" and 155 pounds soaking wet.

Are we talking upside of Matthews or of Goudreau here? (Goudreau isnt a bad consolation prize).

Hey- if we can lose in reg saturday and get help from Chicago and Edmonton we've got a 21% shot at landing in the top 3... Dolan's never had any lottery luck at all, maybe he's due?? So you're saying there's a chance!!

I read that Mathew Barzal grew 2 inches from the first central scouting ranking to the draft. Hughes is already listed at 5' 10".

if he's Gaudreau or Matthews it's a huge win. Gaudreau is the most creative player in the league and Matthews is a superstar center.

You should be able to see Hughes if you want to form your own opinion later this month in the U18 WJC. It starts 4/19. He's the youngest player on the USA team and probably the youngest in the whole tournament or close to it.

Also notable on team USA in this tournament:

Adam Samuelsson - Ulf's son (Kjell's son is also in this upcoming draft)

Mattias Samuelsson - Kjell's son

Oliver Wahlstrom - top 10 - 12 pick in this upcoming draft - Harvard commit though


Alex Turcotte - 2019 draft prospect

and more from non-US teams like maybe Svechnikov, Zadina, Dahlin - all eligible, not sure if they're all playing.

Panthers fans "so far" have committed to donating over $350k to Hank's foundation if the Rangers beat the Flyers Saturday.

Quote:

BarDown ‏Verified account @BarDown 7m7 minutes ago .@FlaPanthers fans are pledging to donate a ton of money to #Lundqvist's foundation (@HLundqvistFDN) if the @NYRangers beat the @NHLFlyers. MORE @ https://www.bardown.com/1.1049388 Started by @TaylorCraig

Link - ( New Window )

In comment 13901072 Kyle in NY said:

Quote:

.... I haven't been pushing the tank as hard as others....

Maybe if we all truly believe and "push the tank", we can actually influence the outcome of tomorrow's game!!!

.

No Florida panthers fan or fans cares enough about hockey to donate $350k. Second they still have to win two games including up in Boston tomorrow who may be playing for a one seed and avoid Toronto in round 1 even if philly loses in regulation so nobody is wasting their money like that.

Most of their home games this year before the spring break crowd came were <5000. There's zero fan base.

So That story has got to be some trumped up bullshit or marketing ploy by viola or whatever the owners name is.

In comment 13903215 baadbill said:

Quote:

In comment 13901072 Kyle in NY said: Quote: .... I haven't been pushing the tank as hard as others.... Maybe if we all truly believe and "push the tank", we can actually influence the outcome of tomorrow's game!!!

Cool post. Tell us again about how you�re sitting back enjoying this all because it�s out of your hands! You�ve only repeated it 25 times by now

But why subject Hank to this nonsense?

In comment 13904346 Kyle in NY said:

Quote:

But why subject Hank to this nonsense?

yeah, there goes the donation to Hank's foundation, LOL, if it was even real.

But hawks and oilers need to show some pride tonight. Hopefully Winnipeg rests everybody and the canucks are spent from their home finale / Sedin twins sendoff.

I expect the hawks to lose in winnipeg - but if Edmonton tanks at home to lowly Vancouver I will be very annoyed.

With the 95% save percentage and 15% shooting percentage ... cost us dearly. Maybe Dolan will get some lottery luck for once but as with the knicks it's more likely someone behind us jumps up into top 3 and pushes us back

Good riddance to this fucking team. Without some puck luck this was easily a bottom 3 league team. Damn shame Dahlin isn't realistic.

In comment 13904393 MetsAreBack said:

Quote:

Good riddance to this fucking team. Without some puck luck this was easily a bottom 3 league team. Damn shame Dahlin isn't realistic.

You have a shot for him. Last year none of the top 3 picked top 3.

Devils only had an 8.5% chance last year.
Flyers moved up from 13 to 2 last year.

I think the league does too little now to reward ineptitude.

Sometimes it's tanking, some times a team isn't that good.

I think they've swung too far toward randomness.

But that's uncommon and thankfully last years draft wasn't particularly top heavy anyway. And rangers, knock on wood because it's still early, did well with their pick anyway

Plural

3 cups to our bone and they still beat us where it counts

clinch no better than 4th worst in the standings. Embarrassing goal at the end of the game for Price.

he needs to get his head on straight or that franchise is done until they can get out of that contract.

A coyotes win and bump the Canadiens down to 3rd worst.

Not sure who owns the tie breaker if the Coyotes lose in OT or a SO.

In comment 13903995 Kyle in NY said:

Quote:

In comment 13903215 baadbill said: Quote: In comment 13901072 Kyle in NY said: Quote: .... I haven't been pushing the tank as hard as others.... Maybe if we all truly believe and "push the tank", we can actually influence the outcome of tomorrow's game!!! Cool post. Tell us again about how you�re sitting back enjoying this all because it�s out of your hands! You�ve only repeated it 25 times by now

And I will continue ... so long as there are people who seem to believe fans actually impact outcomes... it's a common tendency on this site ... and, frankly, pretty fucking bizarre that people seem to actually believe that shit

that believes that, including me. Carry on though

I thought the difference between knowing what's best for the team in the long-run and thinking we actually impact the overall outcome was obvious.

Perhaps not.

.

In comment 13904720 Kyle in NY said:

Quote:

that believes that, including me. Carry on though

Gee. Do you honestly think there is a single fan who doesn't want the team they follow to have the best draft pick possible? Yet all I hear over and over and over again are questions like "Should I root for the Giants to lose?" and statements like "Anyone who roots for the Giants to lose isn't a real fan" and "We have to buy into the tank" for the Rangers.

In a similar vein, there are posters who fall into the trap of referring to the team they follow as "we", as though they are somehow magically transformed into being part of the decision making process. Probably the same people who get completely bent out of shape by what other fans believe or root for - as though it makes a fucking difference on the outcome of a game - or draft positioning.

This is a fan forum. So go ahead and express your opinions. But posts lashing out at other fans because they are rooting for a win (or a loss) is childish, boorish behavior. Moreover, such posts only make sense if the poster truly believes in the magical fantasy the that the thought processes of other fans are literally impacting the outcome (otherwise, what was the reason for the idiotic post to begin with?).

It's idiotic kid stuff. You'd think these people were 10 years old (and who knows, I suppose they could be).

of a post I made (two days earlier) more or less just outlining the current situation facing the team with two games left, and sarcastically mocked it with your �pushing the tank� comment. You�ve been droning on and on about this single topic since the trade deadline. I haven�t discussed it with you once, yet you feel the need to unnecessarily call me out on a harmless commment that you took out of context.

Seems to me, if anybody is �bent out of shape� by what other people are rooting for, it�s you.

We don�t think what we root for impacts the Rangers. But we will continue to discuss it. Cut the sanctimonious lecturing and actually provide a useful hockey post.

In comment 13904795 Kyle in NY said:

Quote:

We don�t think what we root for impacts the Rangers. But we will continue to discuss it.

Discuss what? Supporting the "tank". wtf does that even mean?

What is the "discussion"? It's patently obvious that if the Rangers lose, they may get a better draft position and if they win they may get a worse draft position. There isn't anything to "discuss" - other than magical thinking of course.

odds:

baadbill, I think you're being too literal. You can both enjoy the youth movement the Rangers experienced toward the end of the season and at the same time hope the team loses to give themselves a better chance at improving.

And no one on this board thinks they impact results of games, nor do they (if they use "we" when describing the team) think they are part of the team.

I dont understand that chart. Where could your Habs pick? Could they pick higher than gjeir fourth place finish? If so, how high could they go?

A particular discussion doesn't fit his view and narrative and annoys him so he puts it down and takes a condescending tone.

As if any discussion here on any sports topic will have an impact on the ice or any other field or GMs office.... not much to talk about with this line of thinking.

At least we ended with better odds than Edmonton which put the Devils back on the map and has had way too much lottery luck over the years.

I still fully expect to pick worse than 8th. It's the MSG way.

I like Toronto better than the other east teams but this 5bowls guy may force me to change my view ... where was he when they sucked? At least Sam was funny.

In comment 13905274 5BowlsSoon said:

Quote:

I dont understand that chart. Where could your Habs pick? Could they pick higher than gjeir fourth place finish? If so, how high could they go?

every team in the lottery can pick 1, 2, or 3. that's what the odds are next to their team and the 1st 3 picks.

after the first 3 it's reverse order, but you can be bumped back if someone wins the top 3 picks currently behind them in the draft order.

so the Canadiens can pick 1, 2, 3, 4th where they finished, 5, 6, or 7 (so the most a team can drop back is 3 spots.)

the only way the drop back 3 spots is if three teams not currently ahead of them win the top 3 picks.

In comment 13905465 MetsAreBack said:

Quote:

A particular discussion doesn't fit his view and narrative and annoys him so he puts it down and takes a condescending tone. As if any discussion here on any sports topic will have an impact on the ice or any other field or GMs office.... not much to talk about with this line of thinking. At least we ended with better odds than Edmonton which put the Devils back on the map and has had way too much lottery luck over the years. I still fully expect to pick worse than 8th. It's the MSG way. I like Toronto better than the other east teams but this 5bowls guy may force me to change my view ... where was he when they sucked? At least Sam was funny.

yes, he makes me hate the Leafs. He's like a Detroit Lions fan talking shit. the Leafs have not been relevant in my life time. They haven't won a playoff series in 10 years but this guy thinks he should condescend to other team's fans.

In comment 13905649 pjcas18 said:

Quote:

In comment 13905274 5BowlsSoon said: Quote: I dont understand that chart. Where could your Habs pick? Could they pick higher than gjeir fourth place finish? If so, how high could they go? every team in the lottery can pick 1, 2, or 3. that's what the odds are next to their team and the 1st 3 picks. after the first 3 it's reverse order, but you can be bumped back if someone wins the top 3 picks currently behind them in the draft order. so the Canadiens can pick 1, 2, 3, 4th where they finished, 5, 6, or 7 (so the most a team can drop back is 3 spots.) the only way the drop back 3 spots is if three teams not currently ahead of them win the top 3 picks.

Okay, thanks. So your boys can go anywhere from 1-7. I guess that has both reward and risks. If you just picked fourth where you are, that is safe, but picking one is awesome, picking seventh is a bummer. I guess that element does add intrigue. Good luck.

I see my boys get Boston rather than TBay. I hate Boston (Marchand the most, duh) more than any other team so might as well eliminate them sooner rather than later. Go Leafs Go.

In comment 13905465 MetsAreBack said:

Quote:

A particular discussion doesn't fit his view and narrative and annoys him so he puts it down and takes a condescending tone. As if any discussion here on any sports topic will have an impact on the ice or any other field or GMs office.... not much to talk about with this line of thinking. At least we ended with better odds than Edmonton which put the Devils back on the map and has had way too much lottery luck over the years. I still fully expect to pick worse than 8th. It's the MSG way. I like Toronto better than the other east teams but this 5bowls guy may force me to change my view ... where was he when they sucked? At least Sam was funny.

Being a little harsh here don�t you think. I don�t talk down on any team....so what I lift my boys up when they are playing good. As for why I show up when my boys are doing well.... Why would I want to talk about my boys when they stink? I would do that only on a Leafs message Board. No one here cares.

In comment 13905465 MetsAreBack said:

Quote:

A particular discussion doesn't fit his view and narrative and annoys him so he puts it down and takes a condescending tone. As if any discussion here on any sports topic will have an impact on the ice or any other field or GMs office.... not much to talk about with this line of thinking...

Posts attacking others for being happy (or sad) while watching a Giants or Rangers game takes a special kind of "magical thinking" (and I'm being kind). And it happened many, many times this season with both the Giants and Rangers. And that has nothing to do with any "discussion". It is a personal attack when a poster attacks another fan for saying they were entertained by the game, as though that isn't allowed (and the only way such attacks can be justified is some sort of "magical thinking" that somehow "being entertained" ruined the Giants/Rangers chances at draft position).

It's frankly obnoxious.

maybe you mean well, but the way you phrase stuff sometimes comes across as condescending.

when you say the Canadiens don't have players who will "make me proud"

WTF does that even mean?

Price was voted by his peers as best goalie (this year). While he hasn't played well - no arguing that - there is no reason to believe that he's washed up.

Shea Weber was voted 2nd highest in the player you least like to play against in the league by his peers.

They both missed significant time - Weber since December and these are the players they built the team around.

Pacioretty, the captain, top 5 most goals in the NHL since 2012 coming in to the season, missed significant time.

they lost their 1st line C for a lot of the year (granted he's not a legit 1C, but it dominos).

Canadiens won the Atlantic last year with mostly the same team or similar, I expect with minor roster tweaks they can contend again.

And I am proud when I watch players like Brendan Gallagher, Alex Galchenyuk, Victor Mete, and others.

and from a youth standpoint Noah Juulsen proved he can play top 4 D minutes, at 20 years old, he shined down the stretch in an otherwise dismal season, so did Brett Lernout.

I like the future for MTL.

and your words in many posts, do sound like you feel like your opinion is superior and your team is (which might be true today, but it's generally a shitty attitude to have).

In comment 13905809 baadbill said:

Quote:

It's frankly obnoxious.

No one's holding a gun to your head to be here.

I respect your words, you are the main reason I talk on this hockey thread here. I didn�t expect Leafs fans to bond with, so obviously I do that on a Leafs website.

As for your team, maybe I read to many negative comments on your team made by your fans. Many of your own fans seem to be totally down on management and players, excluding the kids. This is what I read from your fans concerning your big 6 players:

Price- contract too big, declining, you have good young cheaper guys, so you don�t need Price and can get other help by trading him
Weber- a lot of negative stuff because Popular Subban traded
Max- don�t like his as a captain and he doesn�t show up often
Drouin- huge disappointment, can�t play center
Alex- doesn�t do well 5 on 5, can�t play center
Gallagher- best player best work ethic

So, based on what I read from Habs fans, they (overwhelmingly consensus) only seem happy with one of these six, maybe Alex. So when I say you want players to make you proud, players who all fans can support. It seems to me reading your fans, they are only all behind Gallagher, and everyone else is expendable.

Personally, Drouin and Alex are too young to give up on so they may blossom into stars and Weber and Price are beasts when healthy, so yes, those two when healthy should make all Habs fans proud. But I agree with you in looking at your roster, you have made a commitment to get younger which I believe will pay off in a few years. I even hope your boys get the number one pick just as we did Matthews. I want the Habs- Leaf games to be the best, like they once were.

Canadiens fans tend to be a tad emotional.

as a fan base they routinely complain about anything and everything. they booed Patrick Roy.

they expect to win, and though that sentiment is quickly fading, since they haven't been dominant (in terms of cup wins) since the 70's there are still a lot of entitled Habs fans.

In other words, if they criticize Price - who I don't conclude is declining, he's 30 years old, hardly old for a goalie - they should be ignored.

Almost no fan liked the Subban trade, but it shouldn't mean Weber is any less effective in his role, even though some fans are so butthurt to get over it.

Weber and Price are (when healthy) perennial all-stars.

and Drouin is where you lose me. Galchenyuk too.

these are players that hockey players grow up hoping to be as skilled as them. Neither one is a C, so what? If you put a legit center in the middle of them you have a top 10 line in the NHL. The Canadiens haven't had a legit 1C in a decade.

And Pacioretty is the eiptome of a captain, he can do everything, he's similar to Rick Nash IMO where non-hockey astute fans don't appreciate him enough.

I do think the Canadiens might be better off trading Max for a legit C, but it doesn't take way the fact i recognize that Max can light the lamp, he can play PP, he can play SH, he'll cycle and play physical, and excel in all of them.

If I were a contending team in need of a top 6 or even top line LW I'd make a trade for Pacioretty in a heartbeat.

You seem to be behind your current players much more than the fans I read online. I guess you don�t get caught up in all the negativity like most.

I don�t watch Habs play so all I base my opinions are on is what I read from Leaf and Habs fans. Max seems to be the most hated; obviously not by you. Beauty is in the eye of the beholder.

Unfortunately, trading Subban and Setgachev, you better get BEASTS back in return, right? Weber is that when healthy. I hope Drouin can be. Like you said, get him a bone fide center and watch him.

So who are you pulling for....Boston or Leafs?

In comment 13905966 5BowlsSoon said:

Quote:

You seem to be behind your current players much more than the fans I read online. I guess you don�t get caught up in all the negativity like most. I don�t watch Habs play so all I base my opinions are on is what I read from Leaf and Habs fans. Max seems to be the most hated; obviously not by you. Beauty is in the eye of the beholder. Unfortunately, trading Subban and Setgachev, you better get BEASTS back in return, right? Weber is that when healthy. I hope Drouin can be. Like you said, get him a bone fide center and watch him. So who are you pulling for....Boston or Leafs?

Leafs if I have to pick, I cannot root for the Bruins under any circumstances. I'm a Canadiens fan living in Boston.

In comment 13905809 baadbill said:

Quote:

In comment 13905465 MetsAreBack said: Quote: A particular discussion doesn't fit his view and narrative and annoys him so he puts it down and takes a condescending tone. As if any discussion here on any sports topic will have an impact on the ice or any other field or GMs office.... not much to talk about with this line of thinking... Posts attacking others for being happy (or sad) while watching a Giants or Rangers game takes a special kind of "magical thinking" (and I'm being kind). And it happened many, many times this season with both the Giants and Rangers. And that has nothing to do with any "discussion". It is a personal attack when a poster attacks another fan for saying they were entertained by the game, as though that isn't allowed (and the only way such attacks can be justified is some sort of "magical thinking" that somehow "being entertained" ruined the Giants/Rangers chances at draft position). It's frankly obnoxious.

To my knowledge, no one "attacked" you - certainly not a personal way. You frankly (you like that word) seem to have voices in your head.

apologize for my role in getting things to that point. Time here is supposed to be fun and I�m truly sorry for arguing especially about silly stuff.