NFT: 2021 NHL Seasons Begins Tonight

I think that they can give Tampa a good run for the division.

This feels like 2005 right after the lockout for fans of teams that didn't make the bubble. Finished my last fantasy hockey draft last night all set and ready to go!

Full year with new goalie.

Future can be very bright!!!

In comment 15121150 Scott in Montreal said:

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I think that they can give Tampa a good run for the division.

Need a goalie upgrade IMO, have a great team though.

I think that Reimer will eventually get the bulk of the playing time over Mrazek. I am OK with that. I like his stand up style to the butterfly flopping around of Mzarek.

Reimer will steal the Canes a few games.

In comment 15121150 Scott in Montreal said:

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I think that they can give Tampa a good run for the division.

Canes are a good model for the Devs. All that young talent- Svesh, Aho etc...is really coming together. You draft right you don't have to spend the money in UFA

with playing 2 games in a row in one city. Also surprisingly very few back to backs. That should help the Devs with their 2nd goalie situation being a disaster thanks to crawford.

Has their best depth since at least 2014 when they made the final four. Go Habs Go.

In comment 15121218 Stu11 said:

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with playing 2 games in a row in one city. Also surprisingly very few back to backs. That should help the Devs with their 2nd goalie situation being a disaster thanks to crawford.

I think there is a lot of back to backs, not sure what this number is usually, but for the teams at the top of the list, it seems like a lot.

Via Sportsnet Stats, here is the full breakdown of back-to-backs:

San Jose: 12
Ottawa: 11
Edmonton: 11
Montreal: 10
Toronto: 10
Calgary: 10
Nashville: 10
Carolina: 10
St. Louis: 10
Los Angeles: 10
Winnipeg: 9
Minnesota: 9
Arizona: 9
Anaheim: 9
Columbus: 8
Detroit: 8
Boston: 8
Buffalo: 8
NY Islanders: 8
Philadelphia: 8
Vegas: 8
Washington: 8
Vancouver: 7
Florida: 7
Chicago: 7
Dallas: 7
New Jersey: 7
Colorado: 7
Tampa Bay: 6
NY Rangers: 6
Pittsburgh: 6

Will come on consecutive two or three game sets against the same opponent, so there will be a bit less travel involved on the second game of those.

And they only have 1 per month into April.

In comment 15121184 Stu11 said:

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In comment 15121150 Scott in Montreal said: Quote: I think that they can give Tampa a good run for the division. Canes are a good model for the Devs. All that young talent- Svesh, Aho etc...is really coming together. You draft right you don't have to spend the money in UFA

That's a good comparison, I just wish the Devils had the Canes D prospects.

I am excited for the season but it sucks that Hischier is out due to injury along with Bratt and Vatanen who aren't cleared to play yet.

I don't know if you saw the roster but as of now Yegor Sharangovich made the team. He was outstanding in the KHL as one of the league leaders in goals scored so I am excited to see how he does in the NHL. Hopefully he can carry that play over.

The Devils had a slim chance with Corey Crawford but now their playoff hopes are bleak. I hope that the Devils address the backup spot soon or else Blackwood is going to receive little time off.

This season will be exciting because it will be about developing the youth. The Devils will feature a lot of young players that could be long term core players.

I am excited to see where Ty Smith plays. In the OHL he spent the majority of his time playing the right side so it wouldn't surprise me to see him playing with Kulikov who is a stay at home type. The first line will be Ryan Murray and Damon Severson but the second pairing LD is wide open. I hope that Smith gets that spot next to Subban. Let's hope that Subban plays significantly better than he did last season.

For Smith to grab. Ruff is tough but fair. If Smith earns it he's gonna keep it. I disagree in that for the first time in awhile we have some nice D prospects in the chain in Bahl, Smith and Reilly Walsh not to mention the intriguing 18 yo Russian Mukhamadullin who had an up and down WJC but has taken huge strides the past year on the KHL. Interesting that it appears Butcher may very well sit tomorrow. His star has really fallen since his breakout rookie season. As for now Foote seems to be on the taxi squad probably waiting for the Ahl season to start up. Hopefully though we get to see him a bit.

Avs and B's look like Stanley Cup Favorites.

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dom luszczyszyn @domluszczyszyn NHL 2020-21 projected standings and playoff chances Updated daily at @TheAthleticNHL : https://theathletic.com/2318775/2021/0

Hey pjcas...drop the puck, will ya!

In comment 15121470 mfsd said:

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Hey pjcas...drop the puck, will ya!

lol, I reffed one game in my life, I was 14 years old doing a squirts game and I forgot I was reffing and got caught watching a scrum around the net where the team trying to score was poking and digging at the goalie for a good 10 seconds and eventually pushed the puck free and scored.

the opposing coach wanted to fight me after the game. no puck dropping for me.

agree on Athletic, hockey coverage alone is worth the price.

won't be too surprised if Ottawa doesn't outperform projections second half of the year

pj, officiating is fun, you can count on any of i) players, ii) coach(es), iii) parents, iv) other spectators or v) all of the above out for blood--and that's if you called a good game

as a player, coach, and one-time ref, I don't envy the job. And they are in such short supply the quality goes down rapidly the further away from the top you get. So my kids peewee games get the bottom of the barrel.

It's good money though, especially for teens/twenty-somnethings and the rinks around here always have games.

Ottawa has a top 5 prospect pool IMO.

Stuetzle, Brannstrom, Sanderson, Norris, Formenton, and that doesn't even count players like Greig, Chabot, Tkachuk, White, etc. who are under 24.

I think 2021 will be rough for them, but they can get better quickly.

with the PP goal.

Pens vs Flyers now tied at 2, almost halfway through

Nolan Patrick back on the ice after his scary bout of migraines.

Not sure if they ever figured out the cause or not.

Flyers ahead 4-3

Lol. Nice. Hockey all night.

Flyers pouring it on. Kevin Hayes. 6-3.

Farabee hit the score sheet.

PIT could be in for a long season IMO.

I wonder if they'd ever trade Crosby.

Habs up 3 - 1. Two PP goals, Suzuki and Tatar (the latter off a beautiful pass from rookie Alex Romanov) and Anderson (Domi trade) off a face off. TOR goal was a long shot by Nylander through a screen.

Of the 4 goals in the game so far, 3 off face offs. Can't stress enough, face offs are the key to so many plays in the NHL.

the most of the period.

Leafs with 2 PP goals to tie it. 3 - 3.

looks like they did in the finals as does CHI, TBL up 3-0 after 1.

Jimmy Vesey gets a puck in front of the net off the ref and buries it to tie it in TOR - 4 - 4.

in Toronto

regulation ended at 4 - 4

lights the lamp, TBL up 4 - 0, early 2nd.

win in OT

Tough loss. Deserved better, as they had the edge 5-5 for the most part. We haven't had a power forward like Anderson in a long long time. Only one game, but they look solid.

In comment 15122227 fattyT said:

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Tough loss. Deserved better, as they had the edge 5-5 for the most part. We haven't had a power forward like Anderson in a long long time. Only one game, but they look solid.

yeah, a lot good in that game, and some fluky goals.

I don't tend to get too high or low game by game

I thought Suzuki was the best player on the ice for either team.

Romanov with a nice debut.

Kotkaniemi and Anderson good. So the young guys did well.

I'm not a fan of Byron, and Danault if he can't score is going to lose some of his usefulness as a defense only center.

I know a lot of the purists hate 3 on 3 but I'm 52 and I love it. That one was great because there was virtually no circling at all. Risky passes and the players were really going for it. Obviously 60 minutes of 3 on 3 would be crazy, but 5 minutes of it definately works for me.

change to NHL in this era IMO.

I love it.

I wish they made it sudden death (until a winner) with no shootout.

In comment 15122298 pjcas18 said:

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change to NHL in this era IMO. I love it. I wish they made it sudden death (until a winner) with no shootout.

Totally agree. Would make coaches use more of their bench in the OT too. Though I do prefer a shootout over a tie. Growing up ties were my least favorite thing about hockey.

but regulation wins should be worth 3 points or the loser point should be removed. Teams winning in regulation should be rewarded.

I like shootouts more than ties.

I would use the international tournament point system (sans shootout) - like you alluded to.

Get rid of shootout and play 3v3 OT until there is a winner.

3pts for regulation win
2 pts for OT win
1 pt for OT loss

Nick Kypreos
@RealKyper

Pierre-Luc Dubois first destination choice is
@CanadiensMTL
The
@BlueJacketsNHL
ask is now focused around Nick Suzuki / plus. Romanov has been deemed untouchable. Would you do it if your Marc Bergevin?
@Line_Movement

Do it.

is awesome, but I don't think MTL matches up.

1, after so long, C is NOT the teams biggest need.

they have Suzuki, Kotkaniemi, Danault, Poehling, Evans, etc.

2, I like Suzuki and seeing how he thinks the game and not even his slick offense last night, but his D, makes me think of Patrice Bergeron.

So, if I didn't have to trade Suzuki I might consider it, but I also wouldn't want to trade Kotkaniemi.

If they'd so something like Danault, Caufield and a 1st, sign me up.

but I doubt that gets it done.

In comment 15121475 pjcas18 said:

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In comment 15121470 mfsd said: Quote: Hey pjcas...drop the puck, will ya! lol, I reffed one game in my life, I was 14 years old doing a squirts game and I forgot I was reffing and got caught watching a scrum around the net where the team trying to score was poking and digging at the goalie for a good 10 seconds and eventually pushed the puck free and scored. the opposing coach wanted to fight me after the game. no puck dropping for me. agree on Athletic, hockey coverage alone is worth the price.

I used to ref as a teenager and into my 20's. It was good money. Got thrown into a game my brother was playing and my dad was coaching. No refs showed and I was the only one there with experience. Threw both my brother and dad out of the game. Good thing I was driving by then and had my own car.

I just ask refs to ref the game according to the rules. I don't care about the score of the game or the situation, just call the game correctly.

At the younger ages the refs tend to not want to blow the whistle so they often ignore icing, some minor penalties, some off sides.

and the kids come to the bench and ask "why wasn't that icing" and I'd like to have a better answer for them than "the refs didn't think it was icing" when in truth it's the refs didn't feel like blowing the whistle because they want to get their $50 and go home.

But for the most part I have a huge respect for refs because it's not hard to get coaches, but it's very hard to get refs. Thankless job.

In comment 15122677 pjcas18 said:

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I just ask refs to ref the game according to the rules. I don't care about the score of the game or the situation, just call the game correctly. At the younger ages the refs tend to not want to blow the whistle so they often ignore icing, some minor penalties, some off sides. and the kids come to the bench and ask "why wasn't that icing" and I'd like to have a better answer for them than "the refs didn't think it was icing" when in truth it's the refs didn't feel like blowing the whistle because they want to get their $50 and go home. But for the most part I have a huge respect for refs because it's not hard to get coaches, but it's very hard to get refs. Thankless job.

Totally get it. The burnout is tremendous at the lower levels. Football in particular the parents and coaches are too over the top with some of these officials who are just trying to earn a little extra spending money. I officiated youth sports when I was younger (not hockey as you don't want to see my uncoordinated self on skates) as it was great money. Ejected a parent exactly one time and it required multiple adults to get that person off of the sidelines. Fortunately had a good reputation with some of the right people so that meant extra $$$ because make-up games during the week were not required to go through the central pool of officials so league coordinators would choose their favorites and give them all of the make-up games.

I believe get $50 per game (each) in Massachusetts. Might be $30 each at the lowest levels, but I think it's $50 for squirts and above.

And the facility that is our home rink has 8 full sheets of ice, and pre-COVID there are games on that ice from 7am until 11pm. Some have figure skating, so figure 75% hockey all weekend 8 sheets of ice.

they talk about that facility in our coaching clinics as a "referees ATM". Some refs do 8 or 9 games in a weekend day, and 3 or 4 on weeknights.

If I was 16 again I'd definitely look into it.

I love the 3x3 OT hockey. Very entertaining. After 60 minutes, let the skaters skate.

Pj, I think Habs would be crazy to trade Suzuki...that kid is very special....I agree, best one out there last night.

In comment 15122730 5BowlsSoon said:

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I love the 3x3 OT hockey. Very entertaining. After 60 minutes, let the skaters skate. Pj, I think Habs would be crazy to trade Suzuki...that kid is very special....I agree, best one out there last night.

so tempting because Pierre Luc-Dubois is a tremendously talented player too. But I'd stick with Suzuki at this point unless it was an offer I can't refuse.

Like the one I mentioned, Danault, Caufield, and 2021 1st. Something like that.

I'd do that one, it give the habs Suzuki, Kotkamiemi and PLD as top 3 C's for the foreseeable future, they're all under 23 and all solid two-way (Kotkaniemi still developing but I love the toughness he's been showing)

In comment 15122739 pjcas18 said:

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In comment 15122730 5BowlsSoon said: Quote: I love the 3x3 OT hockey. Very entertaining. After 60 minutes, let the skaters skate. Pj, I think Habs would be crazy to trade Suzuki...that kid is very special....I agree, best one out there last night. so tempting because Pierre Luc-Dubois is a tremendously talented player too. But I'd stick with Suzuki at this point unless it was an offer I can't refuse. Like the one I mentioned, Danault, Caufield, and 2021 1st. Something like that. I'd do that one, it give the habs Suzuki, Kotkamiemi and PLD as top 3 C's for the foreseeable future, they're all under 23 and all solid two-way (Kotkaniemi still developing but I love the toughness he's been showing)

Don’t you think Suzuki would look good in Leafs Blue? Man, if you guys are interested in trading him, I hope my boys are making offers. That kid has “it” and he sees things, not to mention his ability to score when you think he can’t from there (last night),

Rangers off to a hot start in the 2021 season

was a dream come true.....hopefully it stays this way

I don't think the zamboni guy should even bother with the Bruins end of the ice.

But Devs looked much better in the 2nd period. Created a lot more.

In comment 15122911 Stu11 said:

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But Devs looked much better in the 2nd period. Created a lot more.

Yes luckily they looked much better in the 2nd. They clearly miss Hischier and Bratt out there.

Thankfully he didnt have to stop lol

Ty Smith with his first NHL goal. Not exactly a buet, off of McIlvoy but he'll take it.

Blackwood every night the Devils can surprise some teams.

In comment 15122965 pjcas18 said:

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Blackwood every night the Devils can surprise some teams.

Blackwood was terrific last year. He'll give us a chance most nights, just not enough skill. The Devs ability to miss breakaways in OT is an art form. Oh well they'll take the point. They are not in the same league as the Bruins.

no idea how that game didn't end in OT

He definately created point blank opportunities tonight just couldn't finish.

In comment 15122993 Stu11 said:

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He definately created point blank opportunities tonight just couldn't finish.

it will come, he's a goal scorer. I thought he looked great tonight at times.

In comment 15122747 5BowlsSoon said:

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In comment 15122739 pjcas18 said: Quote: In comment 15122730 5BowlsSoon said: Quote: I love the 3x3 OT hockey. Very entertaining. After 60 minutes, let the skaters skate. Pj, I think Habs would be crazy to trade Suzuki...that kid is very special....I agree, best one out there last night. so tempting because Pierre Luc-Dubois is a tremendously talented player too. But I'd stick with Suzuki at this point unless it was an offer I can't refuse. Like the one I mentioned, Danault, Caufield, and 2021 1st. Something like that. I'd do that one, it give the habs Suzuki, Kotkamiemi and PLD as top 3 C's for the foreseeable future, they're all under 23 and all solid two-way (Kotkaniemi still developing but I love the toughness he's been showing) Don’t you think Suzuki would look good in Leafs Blue? Man, if you guys are interested in trading him, I hope my boys are making offers. That kid has “it” and he sees things, not to mention his ability to score when you think he can’t from there (last night),

Leafs have enough talent. Just top heavy. your bottom 6 and the D will make or break that team. With Tavares, Matthews, Marner, Nylander, Hyman, etc. that's a lot of talent at forward.

In comment 15122965 pjcas18 said:

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Blackwood every night the Devils can surprise some teams.

Blackwood played great last season as well. The Devils need to stay healthy if they are to have any shot but with their current backup situation they don’t stand a chance. With Crawford they had a slim chance but if Wedgewood needs to play 8-12 games the Devils will be picking high in the draft.

The good news is that Hughes looked good tonight. I look forward to seeing Hughes playing with Alexander Holtz, Nolan Foote, and Dawson Mercer.

putting on a clinic. he's got a hat trick through less than 2 periods.

In comment 15123027 pjcas18 said:

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putting on a clinic. he's got a hat trick through less than 2 periods.

Draisaitl with 4 assists. Amazing you can have a team in the modern day NHL with 2 legit 100 point guys year in year out and they struggle to make the playoffs each year.

In comment 15123029 Stu11 said:

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In comment 15123027 pjcas18 said: Quote: putting on a clinic. he's got a hat trick through less than 2 periods. Draisaitl with 4 assists. Amazing you can have a team in the modern day NHL with 2 legit 100 point guys year in year out and they struggle to make the playoffs each year.

I was saying the other day it's criminal what COL and EDM are doing to their teams without having a top tier goalie.

COL not as bad as EDM, but still dragging an anchor.

In comment 15123032 pjcas18 said:

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In comment 15123029 Stu11 said: Quote: In comment 15123027 pjcas18 said: Quote: putting on a clinic. he's got a hat trick through less than 2 periods. Draisaitl with 4 assists. Amazing you can have a team in the modern day NHL with 2 legit 100 point guys year in year out and they struggle to make the playoffs each year. I was saying the other day it's criminal what COL and EDM are doing to their teams without having a top tier goalie. COL not as bad as EDM, but still dragging an anchor.

Definately. In fact I think Colorado is even more criminal. Top to bottom they are so talented except between the pipes.

but I am surprised that a team like Colorado or Edmonton didn't take a chance on Jack Campbell. My gut tells me that he is one of those quality backups who perform very well once given a starting job. I still hope NJ makes a move to land him.

did by getting Holtby and at a minimum it's a move that both EDM and COL should have explored.

He is coming off back to back years, but if healthy is an upgrade over both teams goalie situations.

There is no excuse for wasting years of players like McDavid, Draisaitl, MacKinnon, Makar, etc with subpar goaltending.

I don't hate Koskinen, just seems wildly inconsistent, nice backup and that's also how I view Grubauer. Solid backup.

makes his NHL debut tonight on his 19th birthday.

If you get a chance I'd check him out.

but PIT could be in for a long year, the Pens are down 3 - 1 already with 7 min left in the 1st.

.
Me when pj asks me something - ( New Window )

In comment 15123970 BrettNYG10 said:

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. Me when pj asks me something - ( New Window )

lol. Konecny could barely keep his composure.

This is BBI Rangers fans watching Kakko hit the goalie in the chest with a shot.

In comment 15123973 pjcas18 said:

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In comment 15123970 BrettNYG10 said: Quote: . Me when pj asks me something - ( New Window ) lol. Konecny could barely keep his composure. This is BBI Rangers fans watching Kakko hit the goalie in the chest with a shot.

Hahaha - I'm seeing Kakko get killed on NYR twitter.

Literally everyone looked like shit yesterday.

In comment 15123421 pjcas18 said:

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did by getting Holtby and at a minimum it's a move that both EDM and COL should have explored. He is coming off back to back years, but if healthy is an upgrade over both teams goalie situations. There is no excuse for wasting years of players like McDavid, Draisaitl, MacKinnon, Makar, etc with subpar goaltending. I don't hate Koskinen, just seems wildly inconsistent, nice backup and that's also how I view Grubauer. Solid backup.

Agreed, either of them should have gone after Holtby. I'm not sure what Edmonton sees in Koskinen. As you said he is a good backup level goalie but he has proven that he is not someone you want as your #1 guy.

A couple of nights ago 2020 1st round pick Shakir Mukhamadullin scored his 10th point of the KHL season breaking the previous record for points by a U19 defenseman in a season. He was considered a reach at the time but maybe the Devils have something here.

The Devils have done a solid job stockpiling D prospects and I look forward to watching them all develop.

Halak is as good as Rask.

In comment 15124138 Jay on the Island said:

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A couple of nights ago 2020 1st round pick Shakir Mukhamadullin scored his 10th point of the KHL season breaking the previous record for points by a U19 defenseman in a season. He was considered a reach at the time but maybe the Devils have something here. The Devils have done a solid job stockpiling D prospects and I look forward to watching them all develop.

Very true Jay about Shakir. Many immediately scratched their heads at the pick but ever since the draft he's really impressed in the KHL. You can't teach his size. I agree by 2 seasons from now the only Devils regular 6 on D from opening night that will still be on the roster could very well just be Ty Smith and maybe Severson. Great 1st period today hopefully they can keep it up.

In comment 15124272 Stu11 said:

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In comment 15124138 Jay on the Island said: Quote: A couple of nights ago 2020 1st round pick Shakir Mukhamadullin scored his 10th point of the KHL season breaking the previous record for points by a U19 defenseman in a season. He was considered a reach at the time but maybe the Devils have something here. The Devils have done a solid job stockpiling D prospects and I look forward to watching them all develop. Very true Jay about Shakir. Many immediately scratched their heads at the pick but ever since the draft he's really impressed in the KHL. You can't teach his size. I agree by 2 seasons from now the only Devils regular 6 on D from opening night that will still be on the roster could very well just be Ty Smith and maybe Severson. Great 1st period today hopefully they can keep it up.

You can't teach his size, but will he have the skating and instincts to be an NHL D-man defensively?

think people questioned the pick on Mukhamadullin because of where he was picked, not that he was drafted. I think he'll be an NHL D or he'll get a chance to be.

He was expected to go late 2nd though I think.

But Russian D are almost always under-drafted because traditionally Russia is cautious with their young D whether it's world juniors or KHL/VHL/MHL, people had similar reaction to the habs picking Romanov (in the 2nd round of 2018), and he made his debut on Wednesday and looked fantastic at 20 years old playing top pair with Weber for a lot of the game.

Good game. Devs had some great chances the last 5 minutes. I agree PJ the Bruins have 5he best goaltending in the NHL

great game

but the Devils look very competitive even without some key players.

I think it would be good for Some Rangers fans who had their pitchforks out for Ruff to watch a couple Devils game (or actually they'll see them enough with all division games this year).

it's not like the Devils have Chelios and Larry Robinson on D, and to be clear I am NOT a fan of Lindy Ruff, but I felt like Rangers fans blaming Ruff for stuff like shots against and poor fundamental D were just misplacing their dissatisfaction.

It's the whole scheme.

In comment 15124334 pjcas18 said:

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great game

Sherengovich with the winner in OT. Sweet play by Severson. Hughes didnt score but was the best player on the ice today. With the division so tough the Devs probably won't be in the mix for the playoffs but they will be a pain in the ass to play night in night out. Sherengovich came out of nowhere during the hiatus to suddenly become a big part of the future.

and I agree, best player on the ice today in a game with at least one future hall of famer on the ice.

He's looking far more comfortable with the puck on his stick and handling the physicality of the NHL game.

Will be interesting to see how his unique system works. He's very focused on the multiple defensive positioning for the fwds especially focusing on the playmakers not getting caught up in the corner traffic in the defensive zone and freeing them up to lead the rush more clean out of the zone.

Is very good. And big. Saw a few people pick them as a surprise team this year. Maybe they be competitive

Is very good. And big. Saw a few people pick them as a surprise team this year. Maybe they be competitive

That was a hell of a pass on Severson to Sharangovich in OT. It's only two games but this is a fun team because it's filled with youth. Jack Hughes looks like a different player than last year. He's so confident and displays moments of brilliance.

Sharangovich is a great story and I hope that they keep him in NJ when Bratt and Hischier are activated. As much as I can't stand Miles Wood he has come up big thus far. Hopefully he will keep the boneheaded penalties to a minimum.

Mackenzie Blackwood will be in the running for the Vezina trophy. The Devils need him to keep this up if they are to have any shot at the playoffs.

Ty Smith has looked very good so far as well.

In comment 15124279 Mike in NY said:

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You can't teach his size, but will he have the skating and instincts to be an NHL D-man defensively?

Mukhamadullin is a solid skater and a very good defender but the question with him was his offensive skills. His surprisingly solid offensive play in the KHL convinced the Devils that he has potential at both ends of the ice. He is a huge gamble. As PJ said it's extremely rare for young defenders to receive significant ice time in the KHL which is another sign that Mukhamadullin has talent.

Kessel has started off on fire, 3 goals (so far) in two games.

he started shooting the puck again. Maybe the sweetest wrist shot in the league and I break his balls about being fat (like everyone else does), but he looks to be in great shape as always.

gets his first, in his first game.
A bouncing puck, great hand eye coordination to cut the lead to 3 - 2 vs Toronto.

In comment 15124396 Jay on the Island said:

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Sharangovich is a great story and I hope that they keep him in NJ when Bratt and Hischier are activated.

No way Sharangovich is getting sent anywhere unless he plays his way off the team. Ruff even showed he's more than comfortable with him on the PK the first 2 games. I think the top 6 will be Hughes/Palms/Sher/Nico/Bratt/Gusev when they are healthy. I think a guys like Wood/Jonnson can play his way up there. A Zajac/Wood/Zacha 3rd line can form a nice checking line with some speed and goals ocasionally. Another real bright spot the first 2 games has been Subban. He's played 30 minutes both games and looks a little more like Montreal/early Nashville PK. He's loading up that cannon of a shot more and more.

In comment 15124784 pjcas18 said:

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gets his first, in his first game. A bouncing puck, great hand eye coordination to cut the lead to 3 - 2 vs Toronto.

The top 4 or 5 guys from this draft are gonna be special. Often times even towards the top the NHL draft it can be hit or miss, but this draft was sure damn good at least at the top.

In comment 15124888 Stu11 said:

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In comment 15124784 pjcas18 said: Quote: gets his first, in his first game. A bouncing puck, great hand eye coordination to cut the lead to 3 - 2 vs Toronto. The top 4 or 5 guys from this draft are gonna be special. Often times even towards the top the NHL draft it can be hit or miss, but this draft was sure damn good at least at the top.

Agree, and the guy with the highest upside might just be Byfield and he's unlikely to debut this year.

He needs some work, but men who are as big as him are not made to skate like him.

Lowest floor of the top 5 too, but maybe the highest ceiling.

The Kings are absolutely loaded in prospects.

If I were them I'd trade Kopitar at the deadline for a 1st, try and unload Quick and Doughty and really build a team for the long haul.

In comment 15124879 Stu11 said:

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Another real bright spot the first 2 games has been Subban. He's played 30 minutes both games and looks a little more like Montreal/early Nashville PK. He's loading up that cannon of a shot more and more.

I may sound like a dick saying this but I wasn't exactly upset that Subban and Lindsay Vonn split up. I think that Subban was way too distracted with all of the off the ice activities that they were engaged in. He has looked very good in the first two games and hopefully that continues and begins to justify his contract. They don't need prime Subban but if he can just play reasonably close to that level then the Devils defense will be surprisingly better than many expected going into the season.

If Ryan Murray can finally stay healthy this season then the Devils will be in great shape defensively.

I wonder where they will play Vatanen once he is activated. Kulikov has played well so far and deserves to remain in the lineup regularly as he is one of their best defenseman in their own zone. I don't know why Tennyson is playing over Butcher but Tennyson will be deactivated once Vats is back. I would prefer to see Murray play with Severson on the 1st line. Then Ty Smith can play with Subban on the second pairing leaving Kulikov and Vatanen.

since his excellent rookie season. It's not a good sign that he has been inactive for the first two games especially since he is replaced by a journeyman AHL defenseman Matt Tennyson.

I would like to see the Devils offer Will Butcher to Montreal for Victor Mete. The Devils would have to include a draft pick but I have always been a fan of Mete despite his lack of size. Would you do that deal PJ if the Devils included a 3rd-4t round pick as well?

In comment 15126107 Jay on the Island said:

Quote:

since his excellent rookie season. It's not a good sign that he has been inactive for the first two games especially since he is replaced by a journeyman AHL defenseman Matt Tennyson. I would like to see the Devils offer Will Butcher to Montreal for Victor Mete. The Devils would have to include a draft pick but I have always been a fan of Mete despite his lack of size. Would you do that deal PJ if the Devils included a 3rd-4t round pick as well?

I would trade Mete for just the 3rd/4th.

He's very good with the puck on his stick, not so good getting it on his stick and he's not a finisher.

he struggles defensively due to his size. he's a better skater than Butcher, not sure how much better a defenseman he is though.

pick for holy shit that team is bad:

Chicago Blackhawks.

You knew once Toews had to back out it would be a struggle, but I didn't know it would be this bad.

I think they will be the lottery favorites (not much of a limb, I don't think most people expected them to be good).

And it's the wrong draft

The Devils have claimed goalie Aaron Dell on waivers. The Devils now have a decent backup goaltender for when Blackwood needs a night off. Dell has only a 800K cap hit and I wouldn't be surprised to see the Devils give him a 1 year extension for the expansion draft.

The backup goaltender spot killed the Devils last season which is why they were willing to pay Crawford. After he retired I feared more of the same but at least Dell provides stability.

due to COVID and politics.

IIHF
@IIHFHockey
· 8h
Due to safety and security issues, the IIHF Council will move the 2021 #IIHFWorlds from Minsk. Tournament hosting options to be evaluated. https://iihf.com/en/events/2021

JGP?

In comment 15127293 pjcas18 said:

Quote:

JGP?

yep, he batted it out of the air.

4 min from another Bruins loss. Even if the Bruins and Habs are in different divisions I'm obviously rooting for B's losses.

still no even strength goals this year

was great in this game.

Hate to make excuses for the 2nd Rangers game (or any game) and I'm sure Sorokin will be good, but have to wonder if a goalie getting knocked out 15 before a game has an emotional impact on the team. Hate to think so with a veteran team coached by someone like Trotz, but who knows.

In comment 15127183 Jay on the Island said:

Quote:

The Devils have claimed goalie Aaron Dell on waivers. The Devils now have a decent backup goaltender for when Blackwood needs a night off. Dell has only a 800K cap hit and I wouldn't be surprised to see the Devils give him a 1 year extension for the expansion draft. The backup goaltender spot killed the Devils last season which is why they were willing to pay Crawford. After he retired I feared more of the same but at least Dell provides stability.

Yep saw that. Excellent move. He is what he is, a solid NHL back up. Looking forward to playing the Rangers tomorrow. Always nice to have an early season game with some juice.

looks like cup contender through a couple games, then get blown off the ice by the Sabres.

Any team can win in hockey - the short season will make every game that much more important.

Romanov looks every bit as good as advertised.

Immediate top pair D, he hits, he defends, he's mobile and has a cannon for a shot. Reminds me of Charlie McCavoy.

In comment 15127622 pjcas18 said:

Quote:

Romanov looks every bit as good as advertised. Immediate top pair D, he hits, he defends, he's mobile and has a cannon for a shot. Reminds me of Charlie McCavoy.

I’ve been very impressed with Romanov. He was a great pick by Montreal and appears to be a legit top pairing defenseman.

In comment 15127742 Jay on the Island said:

Quote:

In comment 15127622 pjcas18 said: Quote: Romanov looks every bit as good as advertised. Immediate top pair D, he hits, he defends, he's mobile and has a cannon for a shot. Reminds me of Charlie McCavoy. I’ve been very impressed with Romanov. He was a great pick by Montreal and appears to be a legit top pairing defenseman.

Absolutely. Montreal has quietly built a damn good hockey team.

In comment 15127858 Stu11 said:

Quote:

Absolutely. Montreal has quietly built a damn good hockey team.

Not too long ago I thought that they were headed for a real rough period due to the enormous cap hits of players like Price and Weber. Price has played close to the level that we expect and Weber is still a top pairing defenseman. The FO has drafted well and now they have a young star in Romanov on the blue line. They have a great goalie duo of Price and Allen.

The Canadiens struggled with their backup goaltender spot last season similar to the Devils. Adding Jake Allen was a great move especially after his strong playoff performance. Now Montreal has the luxury of resting Price frequently.

will be in for a rough patch because of Weber and Price (both have 5 more years AFTER this year) especially if the cap doesn't go up.

And the low point I think was trading Sergachev for Drouin and then struggling so bad on the blue line. But Bergevin has rebounded with the Pacioretty trade, Shaw trade, even the Domi trade and flipping Domi for Anderson. He's been strong in the draft too.

This year though specifically, they have a nice mix of youth and veterans, skill and grit. If they stay healthy and get some puck luck they can do some damage.

season COVID issues.
I'm sort of surprised they didn't just jump the line and get everyone vaccinated.

Not sure how much flexibility they have in scheduling.

Stars have had issues, Preds, and more.

Greg Wyshynski
@wyshynski
·
10m
Evgeny Kuznetsov, Dmitry Orlov, Alex Ovechkin (!), Ilya Samsonov of @Capitals are all on the NHL "COVID Protocol Related Absences" list. Wow.

I don't know I understand this policy.

And Ovie's apology reads to me like a giant FU

Tarik El-Bashir
@Tarik_ElBashir
·
2m
Laviolette said that Ovechkin, Kuznetsov, Orlov and Samsonov will miss four games and then it's under review. #Caps

At all.

I may be missing something, but how is practicing/playing with these guys (and opponents) any different from hanging out in the hotel. I'm not being factitious. I seriously don't get it.

In comment 15129955 pjcas18 said:

Quote:

Tarik El-Bashir @Tarik_ElBashir · 2m Laviolette said that Ovechkin, Kuznetsov, Orlov and Samsonov will miss four games and then it's under review. #Caps

Missing 2 games against the Isles... I'll take it

In comment 15129957 rnargi said:

Quote:

At all. I may be missing something, but how is practicing/playing with these guys (and opponents) any different from hanging out in the hotel. I'm not being factitious. I seriously don't get it.

there is no scientific reason, no reason other than "that's the protocol"

But I don’t take anyone for granted. Habs goaltending is better and they have two of them.

Like I previously said, Habs have improved the most this offseason....
Anderson
Toffoli
Edmundson
Romanov brought up
Allen
Even Perry will contribute when there is an injury

But, having said that......Jonathan Drouin can kill you! Don’t let him, pj!

has been good so far.

Price two out of three starts has given up 5 goals.

He can't carry a team giving up 5 goals.

What a blessing to have him replace King Carey!

I agree, CP has not been his usual wow self, but I saw the highlights of last night’s game and I couldn’t fault him on any one of them. Great passing, point blank, power plays on some. But, we both have seen him still make great saves even when it looks grim for him.

So pj....play along with me here.....If my Leafs would like Suzuki and Allen. Who do you want in return?

In comment 15130238 5BowlsSoon said:

Quote:

What a blessing to have him replace King Carey! I agree, CP has not been his usual wow self, but I saw the highlights of last night’s game and I couldn’t fault him on any one of them. Great passing, point blank, power plays on some. But, we both have seen him still make great saves even when it looks grim for him. So pj....play along with me here.....If my Leafs would like Suzuki and Allen. Who do you want in return?

Oh, yeah, no fault on Price for at least 3 of the goals, they were PP goals and just poorly defended resulting in point blank shots.

I don't think Suzuki is a player that can really be traded.

He might be the most important Canadiens player right now. 21 year old, legit 1C, plays a solid D game and oozes skill and creativity in the o zone.

Signed for low $$$ the next few years.

How do you match up with that?

He's more valuable to the habs than whatever is realistic for them to get back in a trade.

He's not in McDavid category and never will be, but he could aspire to be in Patrice Bergeron class and that's who he reminds me of a little.

Not saying he's untouchable, but he's not far from it.

Torts and him are REALLY hating each other.


Rangers should be interested. He'd be the perfect 2C and would save us from Strome.

In comment 15130334 Anakim said:

Quote:

Torts and him are REALLY hating each other. Rangers should be interested. He'd be the perfect 2C and would save us from Strome.

What do you think of Torts?

From what I hear players mostly absolutely love playing for him, so it sends up some minor red flags to me that PLD can't take the honest assessment from Torts.

I don't know him as well as Rangers fans though, so I might be off on that.

Other than that, I'd absolutely trade for him, but it would cost the Rangers Kakko (and I'd probably do that if I was NYR) for 1, Kakko isn't a C and 2, PLD is pretty physical and that's a rare combination, (size, skill and grit)

In comment 15130345 pjcas18 said:

Quote:

In comment 15130334 Anakim said: Quote: Torts and him are REALLY hating each other. Rangers should be interested. He'd be the perfect 2C and would save us from Strome. What do you think of Torts? From what I hear players mostly absolutely love playing for him, so it sends up some minor red flags to me that PLD can't take the honest assessment from Torts. I don't know him as well as Rangers fans though, so I might be off on that. Other than that, I'd absolutely trade for him, but it would cost the Rangers Kakko (and I'd probably do that if I was NYR) for 1, Kakko isn't a C and 2, PLD is pretty physical and that's a rare combination, (size, skill and grit)

I mean Torts' reputation precedes him. He's a hard-ass and is known for his tough love approach.

Kakko for PLD...I mean I can see that being the asking price, but IDK. IDK if I would do that. I'd do that for Barkov, but for PLD? Ehh. If we acquire PLD, it also means that Zibanejad probably won't be extended as we'll have plenty of players coming off of ELCs and we'll need to re-sign them.

In comment 15130352 Anakim said:

Quote:

In comment 15130345 pjcas18 said: Quote: In comment 15130334 Anakim said: Quote: Torts and him are REALLY hating each other. Rangers should be interested. He'd be the perfect 2C and would save us from Strome. What do you think of Torts? From what I hear players mostly absolutely love playing for him, so it sends up some minor red flags to me that PLD can't take the honest assessment from Torts. I don't know him as well as Rangers fans though, so I might be off on that. Other than that, I'd absolutely trade for him, but it would cost the Rangers Kakko (and I'd probably do that if I was NYR) for 1, Kakko isn't a C and 2, PLD is pretty physical and that's a rare combination, (size, skill and grit) I mean Torts' reputation precedes him. He's a hard-ass and is known for his tough love approach. Kakko for PLD...I mean I can see that being the asking price, but IDK. IDK if I would do that. I'd do that for Barkov, but for PLD? Ehh. If we acquire PLD, it also means that Zibanejad probably won't be extended as we'll have plenty of players coming off of ELCs and we'll need to re-sign them.

So then would you do something like Zibanejad and Kravtsov?

Right now Zibby is a better player, but PLD is 22 years old and I feel like he's better than Zib was at the same age, so in theory PLD can become that player, and is younger (with probably more upside)

In comment 15130356 pjcas18 said:

Quote:

In comment 15130352 Anakim said: Quote: In comment 15130345 pjcas18 said: Quote: In comment 15130334 Anakim said: Quote: Torts and him are REALLY hating each other. Rangers should be interested. He'd be the perfect 2C and would save us from Strome. What do you think of Torts? From what I hear players mostly absolutely love playing for him, so it sends up some minor red flags to me that PLD can't take the honest assessment from Torts. I don't know him as well as Rangers fans though, so I might be off on that. Other than that, I'd absolutely trade for him, but it would cost the Rangers Kakko (and I'd probably do that if I was NYR) for 1, Kakko isn't a C and 2, PLD is pretty physical and that's a rare combination, (size, skill and grit) I mean Torts' reputation precedes him. He's a hard-ass and is known for his tough love approach. Kakko for PLD...I mean I can see that being the asking price, but IDK. IDK if I would do that. I'd do that for Barkov, but for PLD? Ehh. If we acquire PLD, it also means that Zibanejad probably won't be extended as we'll have plenty of players coming off of ELCs and we'll need to re-sign them. So then would you do something like Zibanejad and Kravtsov? Right now Zibby is a better player, but PLD is 22 years old and I feel like he's better than Zib was at the same age, so in theory PLD can become that player, and is younger (with probably more upside)

Yeah, I mean in theory you could flip Zibanejad for PLD like the Rangers did when they flipped Brassard for Ziba. I don't think Gorton would, though.

Maybe something along the lines of Kravtsov/Lundkvist, TDA, Strome (I wish), Gauthier and a first rounder for PLD.

relationship is beyond repair at this point and Dubois will be moved, but I think it will also be on CBJ's terms.

22 year old centers with his pedigree don't get moved often.

This was funny.
Link - ( New Window )

hockey:

In comment 15130789 Greg from LI said:

Quote:

This was funny. Link - ( New Window )

lol, one of my first thoughts too.

.

In comment 15131490 Greg from LI said:

Quote:

.

Laine for PLD?

SiriusXM NHL Network Radio
@SiriusXMNHL

To #CBJ
Jack Roslovic
Patrik Laine

To #GoJetsGo
Pierre-Luc Dubois
3rd round pick

In comment 15131616 Anakim said:

Quote:

SiriusXM NHL Network Radio @SiriusXMNHL To #CBJ Jack Roslovic Patrik Laine To #GoJetsGo Pierre-Luc Dubois 3rd round pick

yep, done deal. seems like one of those trades that can work out for both teams.

as well as some of you who followed teams he coached, seems like a good coach, and a lot of players say good things about him.

so maybe it's not on coaching, who knows, but when you look at the talent that has left CBJ it's staggering.

Pierre Luc Dubois
Artemi Panarin
Sergei Bobrovsky
Josh Anderson
Matt Duchene
Ryan Dzingel

that's a solid line and 2/3 plus a goalie.

And the best thing you can say about the return is Laine and Max Domi.

And I still say the trade by CBJ to get Panarin is one of the best trades in recent history (for CBJ).

I think his players generally like and respect him, but after a few years they get worn out with his style.

In comment 15131634 Greg from LI said:

Quote:

I think his players generally like and respect him, but after a few years they get worn out with his style.

yeah, he seems like a coach where if you don't win within n years (not sure what that is) he could lose some of the players buying in to his style. But that's probably true of most coaches.

People think he has a ceiling he probably doesn't have because of his season centering Panarin, and as we've seen with Strome, Breadman can make anyone look much better.

In comment 15131650 Greg from LI said:

Quote:

People think he has a ceiling he probably doesn't have because of his season centering Panarin, and as we've seen with Strome, Breadman can make anyone look much better.

He looks like he can be a 1C, but some were saying they'd take him over Matthews after the recent playoff performance. It was insane.

In comment 15131650 Greg from LI said:

Quote:

People think he has a ceiling he probably doesn't have because of his season centering Panarin, and as we've seen with Strome, Breadman can make anyone look much better.

Dubois was way more highly regarded than Panarin. People forget Panarin wasn't even drafted (for many reasons - late bloomer, Russia, small, etc).

and PLD just upgraded his situation from CBJ and will likely be on a line with Ehlers.

.

In comment 15131691 BrettNYG10 said:

Quote:

.

Not sure, but he obviously didn't get along with Torts and he also reportedly wanted to play in a bigger market like New York or Montreal.

In comment 15131691 BrettNYG10 said:

Quote:

.

Torts berated him in the bubble during their first round series, probably a little prima donna-ish of PLD (or pre-madonna in BBI terminology) and then he's been benched on and off by Torts.

They've shown the video of it pretty much in between every period of every NHL game. Looks like Torts is telling him to "wake the F up"

Just different generation of players. In my day (and obviously not at this level) coaches would yell and swear at you, throw water bottles, clip boards, or pucks (or whatever else was handy) and even sometimes physically assault you and it was just shoulder shrugs. Now some players are more sensitive and many don't like the abrasive style.

being discussed for NHL draft.

1 is to have the draft in November or December 2021.

I guess a lot (most?) of the junior leagues haven't played a game yet and many NCAA teams simply canceled the season, so buying more time for combine, tourneys, showcases, etc.

Another, that I don't fully get is separating the draft into 2 drafts one for 02's and one for 03's theory I guess is teams have seen more of the 02's and they should be draftable with more data than the '03's - this would be Junr or July though.

don't like fighting in hockey, but IMO - this is how the game polices itself.

Myers hits Armia high, gets a 5 min and the gate, but no league discipline, Edmunson makes him pay.

Quote:

John Lu @JohnLuTSNMtl #Habs Edmundson on pregame conversation with #Canucks Myers across the red line: "I just asked him if he would give me (a fight). Our team wasn't a fan of the hit (Thursday on Armia). He stepped up and you gotta' respect that but I still wasn't a fan of the hit." 10:02 PM · Jan 23, 2021·Twitter Web App

are shopping Vince Dunn. Now there is a player the Devils should be aggressive for. While their blue line is playing pretty well they can still use upgrades.

I would offer Will Butcher(with the Devils retaining some of his salary) a 2nd, and Nikita Okhotiuk for Vince Dunn and Alexander Steen.

In comment 15136357 Jay on the Island said:

Quote:

are shopping Vince Dunn. Now there is a player the Devils should be aggressive for. While their blue line is playing pretty well they can still use upgrades. I would offer Will Butcher(with the Devils retaining some of his salary) a 2nd, and Nikita Okhotiuk for Vince Dunn and Alexander Steen.

I'd be all in on that trade too. Good puck mover, needs a solid stay at home partner to make up for his defensive short comings, but he's definitely got a role on my team.

I read they want a 1st for him, no chance i do that. A 2nd sure. I think that Devils package offer would be fair.

Forward Jesper Bratt as been activated by the Devils and has begun practicing with the team. Surprisingly Ruff just announced that Bratt will be playing tonight versus the Flyers.

Vatanen and Dell should be activated any day now. Hischier is getting close to returning also.

gave Bratt more than two years. He has looked outstanding so far. I know that bridge deals are the norm but I wish the Devils offered him a 5-6 year deal with an AAV of $4-4.5 million. He will likely receive at least $6 million per season on his next deal.

are on fire.

Draisaitl has 6 assists (so far), and McDavid 1 goal and 4 assists (through 2 periods).

they're both on about a 2 ppg pace for the season.

In comment 15140338 pjcas18 said:

Quote:

are on fire. Draisaitl has 6 assists (so far), and McDavid 1 goal and 4 assists (through 2 periods). they're both on about a 2 ppg pace for the season.

Yeah those 2 have been absolutely in fire. Stutzle also had a nice goal for Ottawa last night. A real sniper type one.

In comment 15139057 Jay on the Island said:

Quote:

gave Bratt more than two years. He has looked outstanding so far. I know that bridge deals are the norm but I wish the Devils offered him a 5-6 year deal with an AAV of $4-4.5 million. He will likely receive at least $6 million per season on his next deal.

Absolutely agree. At the time I said they should have at least given him a 3rd year. Miles Wood with 5 goals already really is a nice piece to have. I know the fans love to bash him, and his skillset is definitely splintered, but what he does well he really does well. McLeod has been a real pleasant surprise. Even before he started scoring. I didn't realize he was this good of a skater. Him Wood and Bastain really form a nice crash line. I think a lot of us have given up on McLeod after high hopes but it's nice to see him find a place in the league and contribute night in night out.

In comment 15140559 Stu11 said:

Quote:

In comment 15140338 pjcas18 said: Quote: are on fire. Draisaitl has 6 assists (so far), and McDavid 1 goal and 4 assists (through 2 periods). they're both on about a 2 ppg pace for the season. Yeah those 2 have been absolutely in fire. Stutzle also had a nice goal for Ottawa last night. A real sniper type one.

Stutzle and Byfield flip-flopped very late for a lot of people.

I love Stutzle's game, but probably would have taken Byfield #2 like LAK did. That size and speed combo reminds me of Lindros. OTT getting Stutzle and Sanderson was a great draft with just those two.

In comment 15140338 pjcas18 said:

Quote:

are on fire. Draisaitl has 6 assists (so far), and McDavid 1 goal and 4 assists (through 2 periods). they're both on about a 2 ppg pace for the season.

And yet Edmonton is still under .500. It's criminal how poorly they're run - how in the hell are you mediocre at best with those two guys??

In comment 15140675 Greg from LI said:

Quote:

In comment 15140338 pjcas18 said: Quote: are on fire. Draisaitl has 6 assists (so far), and McDavid 1 goal and 4 assists (through 2 periods). they're both on about a 2 ppg pace for the season. And yet Edmonton is still under .500. It's criminal how poorly they're run - how in the hell are you mediocre at best with those two guys??

and it's not just those two, Nugent Hopkins is at least serviceable as a top 6 forward (I think he's better than serviceable).

They have Kyle Turris now as a 3C.

Yamamoto and Puljujarvi are good young talents.

if you scroll up several us pointed out it was almost "criminal" how they have neglected goalie in EDM.

10 guys on covid protocol. The number is a little deceiving as Dell and Vatanin are on normal quarantine for entering the country, and Carrick is on it because his wife had a baby so he left the team. Blackwood has been on it for almost 2 weeks. They have added 6 of them though in the past 3 days. Shame for Jonnson he really was clicking with Bratt and Hughes the past 3 games.

rolling.

Ran into a brick wall in Markstrom last game, but pick up where they left off from before that tonight and make Holtby look like a zambroni driver.

4 solid lines, another SHG.

Suzuki having a breakout year.

I wish they had a puck mover on D (not TDA more like Fox), and it could be Romanov, but he's 21 and has played 10 games.

Corey Perry playing like it's 2010.

Bruins come back from down 3 goals again, for the 2nd time in two games.

Lightning roll and Shesterkin/NYR back in the win column.

1000 game tonight.

The bulk with Nashville, but still a huge accomplishment, sort of the gold standard in the NHL now.

I remember like it was yesterday when Bergevin acquired him and how pissed I was.

I loved Subban on the Canadiens. Such energy and passion and I couldn't have been more wrong.

Weber is the better fit.

I wish they would stop using him on the PP, yes, his one timer is lethal but it works like once every thousand attempts - kind of like the wrap around goal - it never works then it does and everyone does it.

Weber is not a great puck handler, so he's a liability IMO on the PP, Habs one of the few teams who still use two D on the PP.

Anyway, sucks no fans but should be a nice moment nonetheless.

In comment 15141444 pjcas18 said:

Quote:

1000 game tonight. The bulk with Nashville, but still a huge accomplishment, sort of the gold standard in the NHL now. I remember like it was yesterday when Bergevin acquired him and how pissed I was. I loved Subban on the Canadiens. Such energy and passion and I couldn't have been more wrong. Weber is the better fit. I wish they would stop using him on the PP, yes, his one timer is lethal but it works like once every thousand attempts - kind of like the wrap around goal - it never works then it does and everyone does it. Weber is not a great puck handler, so he's a liability IMO on the PP, Habs one of the few teams who still use two D on the PP. Anyway, sucks no fans but should be a nice moment nonetheless.

Yep Weber has definitely aged better than PK. Funny the both have that howitzer from the point, but have perfected nailing the goalie in the pads with it. Good for Weber and the milestone with his injury woes a few years ago I'm sure he wondered if he'd even make it to 1000. It's a shame Travis Zajac was 2 away before he went in the Covid list. He'll have to wait a bit.

it's the same power play, Weber (a worse skater and puck handler than PK) has taken PK's spot.

I have seen Weber hurt more teammates with his shot than anyone else. I don't know how Gallagher still stands in front of the net when Weber is on the ice, I think he broke bones twice from Weber shots.

In comment 15141624 pjcas18 said:

Quote:

it's the same power play, Weber (a worse skater and puck handler than PK) has taken PK's spot. I have seen Weber hurt more teammates with his shot than anyone else. I don't know how Gallagher still stands in front of the net when Weber is on the ice, I think he broke bones twice from Weber shots.

It is interesting that certain Dmen love to just load up in it when frankly a lower wrist shot can be so much more effective. It's easier to re-direct and cause a rebound. It's what I like what I've seen out of Ty Smith so far. He really has had a nack for getting the shot on net.

In comment 15141666 Stu11 said:

Quote:

In comment 15141624 pjcas18 said: Quote: it's the same power play, Weber (a worse skater and puck handler than PK) has taken PK's spot. I have seen Weber hurt more teammates with his shot than anyone else. I don't know how Gallagher still stands in front of the net when Weber is on the ice, I think he broke bones twice from Weber shots. It is interesting that certain Dmen love to just load up in it when frankly a lower wrist shot can be so much more effective. It's easier to re-direct and cause a rebound. It's what I like what I've seen out of Ty Smith so far. He really has had a nack for getting the shot on net.

Yeah, Quinn Hughes and Cale Makar are the new model of D and they take a lot of wrist shots.

Even someone like Drew Doughty I am amazed at how often he just gets pucks on net. Not 115 mph slap shots, but effective shots on net.

Always a big, slow windup for a slapper so the defense has plenty of time to react and block it. I've never seen a defenseman get fewer shots to actually get to the goalie.

Other than Jack Johnson, whose shots are so far off that no one even bothers to block them.

In comment 15141680 Greg from LI said:

Quote:

Always a big, slow windup for a slapper so the defense has plenty of time to react and block it. I've never seen a defenseman get fewer shots to actually get to the goalie. Other than Jack Johnson, whose shots are so far off that no one even bothers to block them.

I forget what game it was (maybe Rangers Islanders) and Trouba wound up and the whole world saw the shot was going to be blocked and he still took it. I think it led to a short-handed goal or at least a chance.

My high school coach in practice would just point his stick at me and then point to the bench when I'd have my shot blocked. it got so embarrassing I wouldn't shoot. lol.

I think it was on opening night? He took the shot and it caromed way out to center ice for a breakaway.

Hockey Reference has a stat for "through percentage" measuring how many shots go on net. Trouba is at 40%. Lindgren is actually much worse at 31.8%, which surprised me, but then he doesn't take many shots.

Fox is at 57%.

In comment 15141690 Greg from LI said:

Quote:

I think it was on opening night? He took the shot and it caromed way out to center ice for a breakaway. Hockey Reference has a stat for "through percentage" measuring how many shots go on net. Trouba is at 40%. Lindgren is actually much worse at 31.8%, which surprised me, but then he doesn't take many shots. Fox is at 57%.

yeah, that was the play.

And for the record I think Trouba gets a bad rap, he's a solid defenseman, physical, good size, good skater for his size, good shot (when it's not blocked), has some offense, he's a prototypical top 4 D, future captain IMO.

His minutes were sheltered in WIN, and I think he's just re-learning some things, I don't think NYR fans will always regret that contract like they do now.

Right now, he's being massively overpaid in relation to what he's giving them on the ice.

Frank Seravalli
@frank_seravalli
·
11m
Hearing the #NYR
and #NHLBruins
have both granted permission for the #LetsGoPens
to interview Chris Drury (NYR) and John Ferguson Jr. (BOS) for their vacant GM position. More coming tonight on Insider Trading on @SportsCentre
.

In comment 15141748 pjcas18 said:

Quote:

Frank Seravalli @frank_seravalli · 11m Hearing the #NYR and #NHLBruins have both granted permission for the #LetsGoPens to interview Chris Drury (NYR) and John Ferguson Jr. (BOS) for their vacant GM position. More coming tonight on Insider Trading on @SportsCentre .

Word is they attempted to get permission from the Devs to talk to Fitzgerald and were denied. I'm glad. I really like what I've seen out of Fitz so far. He has a weird contract, where it's for 1 more year but not specifically to be GM. I hear they are looking to fix that ASAP.

In comment 15141884 Stu11 said:

Quote:

In comment 15141748 pjcas18 said: Quote: Frank Seravalli @frank_seravalli · 11m Hearing the #NYR and #NHLBruins have both granted permission for the #LetsGoPens to interview Chris Drury (NYR) and John Ferguson Jr. (BOS) for their vacant GM position. More coming tonight on Insider Trading on @SportsCentre . Word is they attempted to get permission from the Devs to talk to Fitzgerald and were denied. I'm glad. I really like what I've seen out of Fitz so far. He has a weird contract, where it's for 1 more year but not specifically to be GM. I hear they are looking to fix that ASAP.

Friedman confirms, Devils are not inclined to let Fitzgerald interview.

have gotten 15 goals combined from Toffoli and Anderson in 10 games. Toffoli a FA and Anderson acquired in the Domi trade.

Toffoli: 13 points
Anderson: 8 points

so much depth this year.

In comment 15141884 Stu11 said:

Quote:

Word is they attempted to get permission from the Devs to talk to Fitzgerald and were denied. I'm glad. I really like what I've seen out of Fitz so far. He has a weird contract, where it's for 1 more year but not specifically to be GM. I hear they are looking to fix that ASAP.

The Devils have to get Fitzgerald extended. He’s done a great job so far especially improving the farm system.

Stu, re: your comment about McLeod above. When drafted he was known as a very good skater. IIRC that was his best quality entering the draft. I’ll be honest I had all but given up on McLeod being more than a solid 4th line C/penalty killer. He could carve out a long career in that role but that’s not what the devils had in mind when they took him 12th overall. The 4th line has been excellent so far this season and McLeod is the main reason.

I hope Ruff keeps the Wood, McLeod, Bastian line together. I know you like Wood but I personally hope Fitzgerald sells high on him like he did with Coleman.