Here we go. It’s time to take on the Western Conference match-ups so welcome to Gregsky’s Playoff Picks. As I stated before, I have a new bag of tricks to guide me through the maze that is the Stanley Cup Playoffs, but for the first round I will trust in good old-fashioned know-how and a bit of luck (I’m sure to dip into the ol’ bag-o-tricks for the next round. Especially if that freakin’ monkey kicks my ass in the first round!). Remember, I’m shooting for one better than last year which means I will have to go no worse than 11 – 4 (yikes!).
DETROIT VS. NASHVILLE
At the start of the season I tried to tell people that the Preds would sneak into the playoffs despite the salary dumping and ownership issues and that they had a better team than most were willing to give them credit for (not surprisingly, I haven’t heard a peep out of some of the people who laughed at my notion). With that said, I want to extend a hearty Welcome To The Playoffs Preds! Your prize for your accomplishments is a first round date with the Wings. Well…. it was nice knowing you. This series will be merely a tune up for the next round for the Wings. They should roll right over the Preds in a puck possession, time management sort of way fine tuning the machine and making sure they are running on all cylinders. RED WINGS IN 5.
SAN JOSE VS. CALGARY
I can say that the stretch drive for the Sharks was extremely impressive, as they chewed up and spit out nearly every opponent to close out the season, but I wonder if it was a case of peaking too early. Jumbo Joe and the boys seem to be poised to take the Sharks to the promised land, but they still need to prove it. Calgary, on the other hand, limped into the post-season and has pretty much been mediocre all year. They did little in the off season to address the lack of secondary scoring and finding help to spell Kipper so he wouldn’t burn out come playoff time. Granted, bringing in Keenan and his whip cracking style of coaching hasn’t been as bad as I had first thought, but you can only get so much out of a roster that hasn’t been fixed in several years. Sorry Flames fans, but there just isn’t enough here to get excited about. SAN JOSE IN 6.
MINNESOTA VS. COLORADO
This series will be tough to pick. Gaborik is healthy and is out to prove he belongs in the playoffs and Forsberg is out to prove he still belongs in the NHL. The Wild are another year seasoned and most of the roster still feels the sting of last year, which should help them avoid another miserable end. The Avs have been up and down all year and have been bitten by the injury bug in stretches and yet they still managed to stay afloat and erase their own memories of last seasons miserable end. Backed by a resurgent Theodore (who has his own things to prove) the Avs are a veteran team with a few youngsters added in. The question is; are they too old to keep up the pace needed to go deep into the post-season? I’m not so sure they can make a long run, but they should get by the Wild. However, it won’t be easy and just might leave them with an empty tank going forward. COLORADO IN 6.
ANAHEIM VS. DALLAS
Jeez, the Stars just can’t catch a break. For the second year in a row they flew under the radar all season and found themselves a comfortable spot in the post-season only to have to face a tough opponent in the first round. Last year I wanted to pick them as a sleeper until I saw they had to contend with Luongo right off the bat. This year they drew the short straw again having to face the defending champs. Anaheim is a team built for the playoffs and will most definitely flex its muscle and pound down on the Stars. With a slightly banged up roster already the Stars are about to face more punishment. Turco will have to match his effort from last year and Richards will have to light it up if the Stars are to get past the Ducks. Maybe their luck will change next year. ANAHEIM IN 6.
Showing posts with label Western Conference. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Western Conference. Show all posts
Tuesday, April 8, 2008
Monday, March 10, 2008
MISER'S WESTERN ROUNDUP
The NHL Trade Deadline has come and gone, and the Stanley Cup Playoffs are looming ahead. In the Western Conference, a couple of big deadline day moves have brought two teams closer to the front running Detroit Red Wings; while some prepared for the future by obtaining draft picks. Two teams, Calgary and Edmonton, were silent as the deadline came and went. Who won? Who lost?
SHARKS, STARS MAKE BIG MOVES
In the Pacific Division, two of the top three teams made big trades to upgrade their rosters. In San Jose, the Sharks acquired D Brian Campbell and a 7th round draft pick for RW Steve Bernier and a 1st round pick in the 2008 draft. The trade is sound for both clubs. Both players have five points in their first five games with their new clubs. Campbell is great at running the power play and has eats up ice time (averaging just over 25 minutes a night). If the Sharks can sign Campbell to a new contract (he becomes an unrestricted free agent on July 1), Campbell will be a thorn in the side of his division rivals for years to come. If Campbell is nothing more than a rental, he still gives the Sharks a better shot at advancing in the playoffs. This move could be GM Doug Wilson’s master stroke, or his downfall if San Jose fails to advance.
Meanwhile, in Dallas, the GM duo of Les Jackson and Brett Hull engineered a deal to bring Conn Smythe winner Brad Richards in from Tampa Bay. The price was steep: for Richards and G Johan Holmqvist, the Stars let go of forwards, Jeff Halpern, Jussi Jokinen, G Mike Smith, and a 2009 draft pick. Richards, a Cup winner with Tampa, had been more noted lately for having the worst plus-minus rating over the past two seasons. That is not completely his fault, of course, but it did make some people wonder (including yours truly). Richards must have been happy about waiving his no-trade clause and moving to Texas… in his first game as a Star, Richards collected five assists in a 7-4 rout of Chicago. Personally, I hated to see Jokinen go – I think his career is on the rise (Note to Tampa: keep him at center instead of on a wing). The worst part, however, is letting go of Smith. Smitty has played so well in his first two seasons in the league, and provided Marty Turco with a solid safety net. Given Turco’s past playoff outings, it will be interesting to see if Turco can build upon last spring’s performance against Vancouver. Dallas lost the series in seven, with Turco winning three games by shutout. Should an injury befall Turco, Johan Holmqvist will man the net, which would probably mean yet another first-round ouster for Dallas. Yikes.
DEPTH DEALS
In Anaheim, the Ducks made deals with an eye on getting some insurance for injuries or underperformers. Anaheim obtained D-men Jay Leach (Tampa) and Marc-Andre Bergeron (NYI), as well as exchanging a 7th round pick with Los Angeles for G Jean-Sebastian Aubin. Leach and Bergeron will augment the blueline (with Bergeron providing insurance on the PP), while Aubin will probably backup J. F. Giguere come April. The offense took a hit last night, as Corey Perry went down after being cut by a skate in a 1-0 loss to Colorado. Perry, who was second on the team in scoring (29-25-54), will likely miss six weeks, meaning Anaheim will have to get through the first round, and perhaps part of the second, without him.
There is a reunion in Colorado. D Adam Foote was acquired from Columbus for conditional draft picks in 2008 and 2009. This, combined with the signing of Peter Forsberg, shows that Colorado wants to win now. The loss of draft picks could haunt them in the future, but that doesn’t seem to bother the Avalanche, who missed they playoffs last year by one point. Where are Deadmarsh, Ozolinsh, and Roy? Colorado also acquired D Ruslan Salei from Florida for Karlis Skrastins and a draft pick in a depth move.
Detroit gave two draft picks to Los Angeles for D Brad Stuart. Stuart will help a D-corps that has been a bit banged up. In another “homecoming” move, Darren McCarty was signed as free agent. Columbus traded Sergei Fedorov to Washington for a college defenseman (Ted Ruth of Notre Dame)…did the Wings even make a call to the Jackets? Vancouver traded a veteran grinder (Matt Cooke) for a younger, perhaps more offensively gifted, grinder (Matt Pettinger). Pettinger is physical, but has yet to show much more than fourth liner ability on offense.
STEAL OF A DEAL?
The Phoenix Coyotes and New York Rangers combined to deal five players. One of the Coyotes’ acquisitions was G Al Montoya, who they believe can be their tender of the future. Marcel Hossa (no, not THAT one) comes to the desert as well. In exchange, the Rangers got a draft pick and three guys (F Fredrik Sjostrom, LW Chris Gratton, and G David LeNeveu). Three or four years from now, this may be seen as the steal of the year. Or, we will never hear from these guys again.
ELSEWHERE
Minnesota got Chris Simon from the Isles for a 6th round pick… this will make Marian Gaborik feel better about his playoff chances?
St. Louis got a 4th line winger (Cam Janssen from New Jersey) and a 4th pick from the Rangers for two D-men (Bryce Salvador to NJD, Christian Backman to NYR).
Nashville hoped to improve their offense by getting Jan Hlavac from Tampa and Brandon Bochenski from Anaheim.
Chicago sent Martin Lapointe to Ottawa for a draft pick, and sent forward Tuomo Ruutu to Carolina for forward Andrew Ladd in a deal that gives each player a fresh start in a new town – a chance to retool and elevate their careers.
OBSERVATIONS
Detroit is still the class of the conference, but Dallas and San Jose have gained ground.
Anaheim’s chances of repeating took a hit, but never count the champion out.
Dallas must hope that Marty Turco – and his teammates – can get that first-round monkey off of their backs. IF they can, the sky is the limit. The team is a great mix of young and old that has survived injuries to their top two defenseman (Sergei Zubov and Philippe Boucher). Can they keep it up?
San Jose must find a way to lock up Brian Campbell.
Colorado must get Ryan Smyth healthy and keep him that way.
As long as Vancouver has Roberto Luongo, they must be respected.
Phoenix just might be the mystery guest in the playoffs; Minnesota just might be left scratching their heads as to how they missed the postseason.
It’s one more month until the playoffs: THE best time of the year!!!
Peace.
SHARKS, STARS MAKE BIG MOVES
In the Pacific Division, two of the top three teams made big trades to upgrade their rosters. In San Jose, the Sharks acquired D Brian Campbell and a 7th round draft pick for RW Steve Bernier and a 1st round pick in the 2008 draft. The trade is sound for both clubs. Both players have five points in their first five games with their new clubs. Campbell is great at running the power play and has eats up ice time (averaging just over 25 minutes a night). If the Sharks can sign Campbell to a new contract (he becomes an unrestricted free agent on July 1), Campbell will be a thorn in the side of his division rivals for years to come. If Campbell is nothing more than a rental, he still gives the Sharks a better shot at advancing in the playoffs. This move could be GM Doug Wilson’s master stroke, or his downfall if San Jose fails to advance.
Meanwhile, in Dallas, the GM duo of Les Jackson and Brett Hull engineered a deal to bring Conn Smythe winner Brad Richards in from Tampa Bay. The price was steep: for Richards and G Johan Holmqvist, the Stars let go of forwards, Jeff Halpern, Jussi Jokinen, G Mike Smith, and a 2009 draft pick. Richards, a Cup winner with Tampa, had been more noted lately for having the worst plus-minus rating over the past two seasons. That is not completely his fault, of course, but it did make some people wonder (including yours truly). Richards must have been happy about waiving his no-trade clause and moving to Texas… in his first game as a Star, Richards collected five assists in a 7-4 rout of Chicago. Personally, I hated to see Jokinen go – I think his career is on the rise (Note to Tampa: keep him at center instead of on a wing). The worst part, however, is letting go of Smith. Smitty has played so well in his first two seasons in the league, and provided Marty Turco with a solid safety net. Given Turco’s past playoff outings, it will be interesting to see if Turco can build upon last spring’s performance against Vancouver. Dallas lost the series in seven, with Turco winning three games by shutout. Should an injury befall Turco, Johan Holmqvist will man the net, which would probably mean yet another first-round ouster for Dallas. Yikes.
DEPTH DEALS
In Anaheim, the Ducks made deals with an eye on getting some insurance for injuries or underperformers. Anaheim obtained D-men Jay Leach (Tampa) and Marc-Andre Bergeron (NYI), as well as exchanging a 7th round pick with Los Angeles for G Jean-Sebastian Aubin. Leach and Bergeron will augment the blueline (with Bergeron providing insurance on the PP), while Aubin will probably backup J. F. Giguere come April. The offense took a hit last night, as Corey Perry went down after being cut by a skate in a 1-0 loss to Colorado. Perry, who was second on the team in scoring (29-25-54), will likely miss six weeks, meaning Anaheim will have to get through the first round, and perhaps part of the second, without him.
There is a reunion in Colorado. D Adam Foote was acquired from Columbus for conditional draft picks in 2008 and 2009. This, combined with the signing of Peter Forsberg, shows that Colorado wants to win now. The loss of draft picks could haunt them in the future, but that doesn’t seem to bother the Avalanche, who missed they playoffs last year by one point. Where are Deadmarsh, Ozolinsh, and Roy? Colorado also acquired D Ruslan Salei from Florida for Karlis Skrastins and a draft pick in a depth move.
Detroit gave two draft picks to Los Angeles for D Brad Stuart. Stuart will help a D-corps that has been a bit banged up. In another “homecoming” move, Darren McCarty was signed as free agent. Columbus traded Sergei Fedorov to Washington for a college defenseman (Ted Ruth of Notre Dame)…did the Wings even make a call to the Jackets? Vancouver traded a veteran grinder (Matt Cooke) for a younger, perhaps more offensively gifted, grinder (Matt Pettinger). Pettinger is physical, but has yet to show much more than fourth liner ability on offense.
STEAL OF A DEAL?
The Phoenix Coyotes and New York Rangers combined to deal five players. One of the Coyotes’ acquisitions was G Al Montoya, who they believe can be their tender of the future. Marcel Hossa (no, not THAT one) comes to the desert as well. In exchange, the Rangers got a draft pick and three guys (F Fredrik Sjostrom, LW Chris Gratton, and G David LeNeveu). Three or four years from now, this may be seen as the steal of the year. Or, we will never hear from these guys again.
ELSEWHERE
Minnesota got Chris Simon from the Isles for a 6th round pick… this will make Marian Gaborik feel better about his playoff chances?
St. Louis got a 4th line winger (Cam Janssen from New Jersey) and a 4th pick from the Rangers for two D-men (Bryce Salvador to NJD, Christian Backman to NYR).
Nashville hoped to improve their offense by getting Jan Hlavac from Tampa and Brandon Bochenski from Anaheim.
Chicago sent Martin Lapointe to Ottawa for a draft pick, and sent forward Tuomo Ruutu to Carolina for forward Andrew Ladd in a deal that gives each player a fresh start in a new town – a chance to retool and elevate their careers.
OBSERVATIONS
Detroit is still the class of the conference, but Dallas and San Jose have gained ground.
Anaheim’s chances of repeating took a hit, but never count the champion out.
Dallas must hope that Marty Turco – and his teammates – can get that first-round monkey off of their backs. IF they can, the sky is the limit. The team is a great mix of young and old that has survived injuries to their top two defenseman (Sergei Zubov and Philippe Boucher). Can they keep it up?
San Jose must find a way to lock up Brian Campbell.
Colorado must get Ryan Smyth healthy and keep him that way.
As long as Vancouver has Roberto Luongo, they must be respected.
Phoenix just might be the mystery guest in the playoffs; Minnesota just might be left scratching their heads as to how they missed the postseason.
It’s one more month until the playoffs: THE best time of the year!!!
Peace.
Tuesday, February 5, 2008
MISER'S WESTERN ROUNDUP
Hello, again! I hope everyone is doing well. It’s been a while since stopped by, so let’s get going right away. Today, along with a quick look at the West overall, let us look at the West from a health standpoint. With the trade deadline looming, it would do well to look at who is hurting, and where.
DETROIT (40-10-4, 84PTS): The Red Machine keeps rolling. It doesn’t seem to matter who is hurt, Detroit pushes ever forward. Tomas Holmstrom missed eight games, Kirk Maltby missed 19, even all-world forward Henrik Zetterberg missed a couple. No matter. The Wings continue to run away with from the conference. The only current injury is to D Nik Kronwall. He is day to day with a shoulder problem. I’ve said it elsewhere, and I’ll say it here: it appears at this time that the only club that can stop Detroit is Detroit.
DALLAS (31-20-5, 67): Dallas recently got Jere Lehtinen back into the lineup after an extended absence due to hernia surgery. The blueline, however, continues to miss the services of Philippe Boucher (shoulder surgery), and Sergei Zubov (foot). The Stars have gotten contributions from rookie Matt Niskanen (5-14-19, +14), and Trevor Daley (2-11-13). Even Stephane Robidas has chipped in with four goals, after going all of last season without a goal. C Mike Ribeiro was inked to a five-year extension on Jan 7th. There is that seemingly ever-present rumor of G Marty Turco going to Tampa Bay for Martin St. Louis, but both teams have denied the rumor again and again.
MINNESOTA (30-19-3, 63): Right now, the only injury being reported by the Wild is to LW Derek Boogard (back). Minnesota is one of the hottest teams in the West, with 15 points in their last 10 games (7-2-1).
SAN JOSE (29-16-7, 65): The Sharks trail Dallas by two points with four games in hand in the Pacific. The D-corps, however, is being held together with staples and duct tape. Injuries to Kyle Mclaren (knee), Alexei Semenov (viral infection), and Douglas Murray (hip, day to day) have decimated San Jose. Add injuries to C Curtis Brown (hand), and LW Ryan Clowe (knee), and it is amazing that San Jose is still in the thick of it, even with Joe Thornton.
ANAHEIM (27-22-7, 61): The Ducks are very happy to have Scott Niedermayer back on defense. With Samuel Pahlsson on IR (abdominal), and Mathieu Schneider nursing a wrist injury, Niedermayer provides loads of skill and leadership on the back end. With Teemu Selanne returning as well, Anaheim will not give up their crown as easily as one might have thought.
CALGARY (26-18-8, 60): The Flames currently report no injuries. Calgary had a four game win streak stopped this past Saturday in a 2-1 loss to Dallas at the Saddledome. Jarome Iginla has a point in 5 of his last 7 games (0-5-5).
COLORADO (28-21-4, 60): The Avs are in dire straits, indeed. When a team loses Joe Sakic (hernia), Ryan Smyth (fractured ankle), and superkid Paul Stastny (appendectomy), goals are going to be difficult to find, at best. Add in a groin injury to Marek Svatos (day to day), and the defense and goaltending are going to be pressured to be near perfect every night. The Avs will have to fight and scratch for points just to keep their current 7th seed. Do they have the depth to do so?
NASHVILLE (27-21-5, 59): Aside from a groin injury to pest Jordin Tootoo, the Preds are healthy. Forward Jason Arnott did leave the game against Columbus on Jan. 31 with a leg injury, and sat out their next match, a 3-2 win over the visiting Coyotes. Reports today indicate that Arnott will play tomorrow night against Carolina.
VANCOUVER (26-21-6, 58): The Canucks are another club swamped with injuries to the defense. Kevin Bieksa remains on IR with a calf laceration. Lukas Krajicek (shoulder), Willie Mitchell (vertebrae), and Sami Salo (groin) are listed as day to day. Up front, Vancouver is without the services of Brenden Morrison (wrist surgery, IR). Roberto Luongo will have to be even better than he was in last year’s playoffs… is that possible?
PHOENIX (27-22-3, 57): No injuries reported.
COLUMBUS (25-23-6, 56): Sergei Fedorov is currently on IR with a concussion.
ST. LOUIS (24-20-7, 55): D Christian Backman (foot) and LW Martin Rucinsky (separated shoulder) are on IR, as is RW Mike Johnson (shoulder surgery). I think the Blues have the best shot of still making the playoffs. Why? I don’t know…
CHICAGO (23-24-5, 51): After a great start, the ‘Hawks have suffered some setbacks. With Kevyn Adams (ACL), Jonathan Toews (knee), and Jason Williams (groin) on IR, Chicago’s offense has slumped. They have only the slightest chance of making up ground and getting to the postseason.
EDMONTON (23-26-5, 51): The Oilers are without the services of Sheldon Souray (shoulder), and Raffi Torres (ACL). A very keen observer of the Oil is Anaheim GM Brian Burke. Why? The Ducks own Edmonton’s first round pick in the 2008 Entry Draft; compensation for the Oilers’ signing of Dustin Penner last summer. That pick could be a very high one in what is supposed to be a draft deep in talent. Do the Ducks hold on to the pick, or use it in a package to land more scoring depth at the trade deadline? Stay tuned.
LOS ANGELES (21-30-3, 45): Rob Blake is day to day with an ankle injury. Mike Cammalleri (ribs) and Ladislav Nagy (neck) are on IR.
Next time: Who won and who lost at the trade deadline?
Peace.
DETROIT (40-10-4, 84PTS): The Red Machine keeps rolling. It doesn’t seem to matter who is hurt, Detroit pushes ever forward. Tomas Holmstrom missed eight games, Kirk Maltby missed 19, even all-world forward Henrik Zetterberg missed a couple. No matter. The Wings continue to run away with from the conference. The only current injury is to D Nik Kronwall. He is day to day with a shoulder problem. I’ve said it elsewhere, and I’ll say it here: it appears at this time that the only club that can stop Detroit is Detroit.
DALLAS (31-20-5, 67): Dallas recently got Jere Lehtinen back into the lineup after an extended absence due to hernia surgery. The blueline, however, continues to miss the services of Philippe Boucher (shoulder surgery), and Sergei Zubov (foot). The Stars have gotten contributions from rookie Matt Niskanen (5-14-19, +14), and Trevor Daley (2-11-13). Even Stephane Robidas has chipped in with four goals, after going all of last season without a goal. C Mike Ribeiro was inked to a five-year extension on Jan 7th. There is that seemingly ever-present rumor of G Marty Turco going to Tampa Bay for Martin St. Louis, but both teams have denied the rumor again and again.
MINNESOTA (30-19-3, 63): Right now, the only injury being reported by the Wild is to LW Derek Boogard (back). Minnesota is one of the hottest teams in the West, with 15 points in their last 10 games (7-2-1).
SAN JOSE (29-16-7, 65): The Sharks trail Dallas by two points with four games in hand in the Pacific. The D-corps, however, is being held together with staples and duct tape. Injuries to Kyle Mclaren (knee), Alexei Semenov (viral infection), and Douglas Murray (hip, day to day) have decimated San Jose. Add injuries to C Curtis Brown (hand), and LW Ryan Clowe (knee), and it is amazing that San Jose is still in the thick of it, even with Joe Thornton.
ANAHEIM (27-22-7, 61): The Ducks are very happy to have Scott Niedermayer back on defense. With Samuel Pahlsson on IR (abdominal), and Mathieu Schneider nursing a wrist injury, Niedermayer provides loads of skill and leadership on the back end. With Teemu Selanne returning as well, Anaheim will not give up their crown as easily as one might have thought.
CALGARY (26-18-8, 60): The Flames currently report no injuries. Calgary had a four game win streak stopped this past Saturday in a 2-1 loss to Dallas at the Saddledome. Jarome Iginla has a point in 5 of his last 7 games (0-5-5).
COLORADO (28-21-4, 60): The Avs are in dire straits, indeed. When a team loses Joe Sakic (hernia), Ryan Smyth (fractured ankle), and superkid Paul Stastny (appendectomy), goals are going to be difficult to find, at best. Add in a groin injury to Marek Svatos (day to day), and the defense and goaltending are going to be pressured to be near perfect every night. The Avs will have to fight and scratch for points just to keep their current 7th seed. Do they have the depth to do so?
NASHVILLE (27-21-5, 59): Aside from a groin injury to pest Jordin Tootoo, the Preds are healthy. Forward Jason Arnott did leave the game against Columbus on Jan. 31 with a leg injury, and sat out their next match, a 3-2 win over the visiting Coyotes. Reports today indicate that Arnott will play tomorrow night against Carolina.
VANCOUVER (26-21-6, 58): The Canucks are another club swamped with injuries to the defense. Kevin Bieksa remains on IR with a calf laceration. Lukas Krajicek (shoulder), Willie Mitchell (vertebrae), and Sami Salo (groin) are listed as day to day. Up front, Vancouver is without the services of Brenden Morrison (wrist surgery, IR). Roberto Luongo will have to be even better than he was in last year’s playoffs… is that possible?
PHOENIX (27-22-3, 57): No injuries reported.
COLUMBUS (25-23-6, 56): Sergei Fedorov is currently on IR with a concussion.
ST. LOUIS (24-20-7, 55): D Christian Backman (foot) and LW Martin Rucinsky (separated shoulder) are on IR, as is RW Mike Johnson (shoulder surgery). I think the Blues have the best shot of still making the playoffs. Why? I don’t know…
CHICAGO (23-24-5, 51): After a great start, the ‘Hawks have suffered some setbacks. With Kevyn Adams (ACL), Jonathan Toews (knee), and Jason Williams (groin) on IR, Chicago’s offense has slumped. They have only the slightest chance of making up ground and getting to the postseason.
EDMONTON (23-26-5, 51): The Oilers are without the services of Sheldon Souray (shoulder), and Raffi Torres (ACL). A very keen observer of the Oil is Anaheim GM Brian Burke. Why? The Ducks own Edmonton’s first round pick in the 2008 Entry Draft; compensation for the Oilers’ signing of Dustin Penner last summer. That pick could be a very high one in what is supposed to be a draft deep in talent. Do the Ducks hold on to the pick, or use it in a package to land more scoring depth at the trade deadline? Stay tuned.
LOS ANGELES (21-30-3, 45): Rob Blake is day to day with an ankle injury. Mike Cammalleri (ribs) and Ladislav Nagy (neck) are on IR.
Next time: Who won and who lost at the trade deadline?
Peace.
Tuesday, January 8, 2008
WHO'S GOT THE BEST HOCKEY - EAST OR WEST?
I’m back from my winter break feeling refreshed, recharged and ready for the 2nd half of the season. Usually at this point of the season I take a look back at the first half to get an overall feeling of how we got here, but because this is also the point of the season when the age old argument of “ who’s got the best hockey East or West?” starts to show up, I’ll detour that way when I look back.
I’ve taken on this subject before and it usually turns into Western fans calling the East a “cupcake league” and whining about Eastern media bias or easy travel and Eastern fans calling the West irrelevant or “too much euro flash not enough North American smash”.
Year after year I hear the same old jabs going back and forth and I always come to the same conclusion. Having lived both in the West and in the East the answer to the question simply lies with where you live. Naturally you chose to watch the games in your area or the ones that affect your favorite team(s). So it is no great mystery that if you live in the East you tend to favor the East and the same for Western fans. We all know that you can’t judge the two conferences from the joke they call the All-Star game, so I did some looking into the 1st half of the season and came up with some numbers to fuel the fire for this years version of the debate (cue creepy organ music and an evil laugh).
Who’s got the best hockey? East or West? Before you decide, chew on this….
…As of today…
The conference with the most total points goes to the West with 706 (East 667)
The conference with the most overtime points goes to the East with 63 (West 58)
The total number of points in East vs. West games goes to the West with 98 (East 66)
The number of players in the top 50 in scoring goes to the East with 29 (West 21)
The number of forwards in the top 50 in scoring goes to the East with 30 (West 20)
The number of defensemen in the top 50 in scoring goes to the East with 28 (West 22)
The number of defensemen in the top 50 +/- rating goes to the West with 30 (East 20)
The number of goaltenders in the top 30 in GAA goes to the West with 19 (East 11)
The number of goaltenders in the top 30 in save % goes to the East with 16 (West 14)
The number of teams in the top 15 in goals per game goes to the East with 9 (West 6)
The number of teams in the top 15 in goals against per game goes to the West with 9 (East 6)
The number of total goals scored goes to the East with 1761 (West 1742)
The number of goals surrendered goes to the West with 1697 (East 1806)
I still say it all depends on where you live for where your alliances lie, but after looking at some of these numbers I get the feeling that if you want to see offence head East and if you want to see defense head West. Just remember on average there really is only 2 points that separate the two conferences with the West holding the slight edge so they are quite even overall. Happy debating!
I’ve taken on this subject before and it usually turns into Western fans calling the East a “cupcake league” and whining about Eastern media bias or easy travel and Eastern fans calling the West irrelevant or “too much euro flash not enough North American smash”.
Year after year I hear the same old jabs going back and forth and I always come to the same conclusion. Having lived both in the West and in the East the answer to the question simply lies with where you live. Naturally you chose to watch the games in your area or the ones that affect your favorite team(s). So it is no great mystery that if you live in the East you tend to favor the East and the same for Western fans. We all know that you can’t judge the two conferences from the joke they call the All-Star game, so I did some looking into the 1st half of the season and came up with some numbers to fuel the fire for this years version of the debate (cue creepy organ music and an evil laugh).
Who’s got the best hockey? East or West? Before you decide, chew on this….
…As of today…
The conference with the most total points goes to the West with 706 (East 667)
The conference with the most overtime points goes to the East with 63 (West 58)
The total number of points in East vs. West games goes to the West with 98 (East 66)
The number of players in the top 50 in scoring goes to the East with 29 (West 21)
The number of forwards in the top 50 in scoring goes to the East with 30 (West 20)
The number of defensemen in the top 50 in scoring goes to the East with 28 (West 22)
The number of defensemen in the top 50 +/- rating goes to the West with 30 (East 20)
The number of goaltenders in the top 30 in GAA goes to the West with 19 (East 11)
The number of goaltenders in the top 30 in save % goes to the East with 16 (West 14)
The number of teams in the top 15 in goals per game goes to the East with 9 (West 6)
The number of teams in the top 15 in goals against per game goes to the West with 9 (East 6)
The number of total goals scored goes to the East with 1761 (West 1742)
The number of goals surrendered goes to the West with 1697 (East 1806)
I still say it all depends on where you live for where your alliances lie, but after looking at some of these numbers I get the feeling that if you want to see offence head East and if you want to see defense head West. Just remember on average there really is only 2 points that separate the two conferences with the West holding the slight edge so they are quite even overall. Happy debating!
Thursday, November 29, 2007
MISER'S WESTERN ROUNDUP
Hello, again! I hope everyone had a great holiday! Here is a look at what’s happening in the West:
GOALIES STAND TALL: Two Western netminders were included in the NHL’s Three Stars of the Week for the week ending Nov. 24. Ilya Bryzgalov, claimed by Phoenix on Nov.17 after the Anaheim Ducks placed him on waivers, was selected as 2nd Star for posting a 3-0-0 record with a 1.62 GAA and .938 SV%. Mike Smith of the Stars was selected as 3rd Star, also going 3-0-0, with a 1.00 GAA and .963 SV%.
The move of Bryzgalov to the desert came after several teams had made calls to Ducks’ GM Brian Burke about the 27-year old goaler, but no deal ever came to fruition. With J.S. Giguere under contract for four years, and with up-and-comer Jonas Hiller waiting in the wings at Portland (AHL), Burke agreed to let Bryzgalov go via the waiver wire. Burke made the following statement:
“He’s been great. He has not asked for a trade. This whole schematic here is mine. He never came to me and said, ‘I want out.’ His agent never said ‘I want out.’ When we signed Hiller during the playoffs, you didn’t hear a word out of Bryz. We gave Giguere the four-year deal with a no-trade clause and you didn’t hear a word out of Bryz. He’s been terrific.
"I think organizations need to have reputations for honest answers with their players. And since this player came through for us: he won three playoff rounds in the last two years, he’s a quality person who helped us win, then he deserves to go somewhere else and play. The market has not materialized and I’m keeping my word today.”
The Coyotes have welcomed him with open arms. Opening Night starter David Aebischer, who appeared in that one game with Phoenix, has been loaned to HC Lugano of the Swiss-A league. The Dogs had been switching off between Mikael Tellqvist and Alex Auld in net; the arrival of Bryzgalov should give them some stability in that position. If they can get their game going at home (PHX is 4-7-0 at home but 7-3-0 on the road), the Coyotes could still make a run for a playoff spot.
Meanwhile, in Dallas, Mike Smith has helped what was a beleaguered Stars club regain an even keel. On Nov. 10th at Los Angeles, Dallas coughed up a four-goal lead, allowing five goals in a Kings’ record 5:07, and ended up losing to the Kings in OT, 6-5. Marty Turco took the loss in a game that not only shook his confidence, but embarrassed the entire organization. GM Doug Armstrong was fired three days later, replaced on an interim basis by assistant GM Les Jackson and former Star Brett Hull. The pair will run the hockey department for the rest of the year. It is an interesting idea, to say the least, and it may fall apart completely. However, the team has flourished since the move, winning six straight games after a shootout loss at home to San Jose. Smith has been a rock in net, especially on Sunday past at Madison Square Garden, stopping a career-high 39 shots in an improbable 3-2 victory over the New York Rangers. Could there be a move in the works… and could it be Turco moving on? I should point out that I have heard nothing in that vein… it is pure speculation on my part. The biggest problem about that idea is finding someone who would take Turco’s contract (one of the items that got Armstrong in hot water with the fans in the first place…).
CENTRAL DIVISION
For the past two seasons, the Central Division has been one of the weaker divisions in the league; with only two teams (Detroit and Nashville) making the playoffs. With the weakness of the other Central clubs, the Wings and Preds rolled up 100+ point seasons last year, while 3rd place St. Louis could only muster 81 points.
Change has arrived in the Central. While Detroit still leads the division (and conference) with 34 points, St. Louis and Chicago currently hold the 4th and 5th slots in the West with 26 points each. Also with 26 points (7th in West) are the Columbus Blue Jackets.
Each club is facing injury problems. The Blackhawks have lost C Kevyn Adams for the year to an ACL injury, but will get RW Jason Williams and RW Martin Havlat for tonight’s match against Tampa Bay. The Jackets are missing LW Fredrik Modin and D Duvie Westcott., with C Jiri Novotny listed as day-to-day with a bum shoulder. The Blues’ Martin Rucinsky is dealing with a bruised hand; while rookie RW David Backes is out with an MCL injury.
While those clubs have been on the rise, the Predators are struggling to keep pace. They are only two points out of the playoffs at this early stage, but have scored one less goal than they have allowed (62 to 63). In addition their special teams rank in the bottom third in the league; and starting goalie Chris Mason is sporting a goals-against of 3.07 and an .897 SV%.
NORTHWEST DIVISION
The Vancouver Canucks have charged to the forefront by winning five of their last seven; the last two coming via back-to-back shutouts from Roberto Luongo. The Canucks are 7-1-2 in their last ten; and have been road warriors (7-3-1 away from GM Place). A 6-6-1 home mark is perplexing, to say the least. Minnesota has faded a bit after a strong start to the year, but still hold down second place. The Wild has split their last ten; and for the season are being outshot almost every night. Colorado takes no prisoners on home ice (9-2-0), but are a poor 3-7-1 on the road; and have been outscored 63-66 this season. The Avs power play (13.2%) has been anemic despite the addition of Ryan Smyth; and the team ranks 27th in faceoffs won. The Flames are struggling under Mike Keenan – or is it the play of Miikka Kiprusoff? Kipper is on his way to the worst season of his career: 10-10-3, 2.96, .886 SV%. The trio of Jarome Iginla (33pts.), Alex Tanguay (22), and Daymond Langkow (21) leads the way on offense, but the defense and 27th ranked penalty kill have been Calgary’s undoing. Edmonton has been racked by injuries, with five players on IR. The Oil has been outscored 74-57, and has the worst power play in the league. It looks to be a long, cold, and restless winter in Alberta.
PACIFIC DIVISION
Despite the upheaval in Dallas mentioned above, the Stars have moved to the top of the division. For the first time in seemingly forever, Dallas is averaging three goals a game. The Stars are 7-1-2 in their last ten games, and are once again above .500 on the road. There are bumps ahead, however. Marty Turco must get his game in order if the Stars are to hold their position. Also, Selke Award winner Jere Lehtinen requires hernia surgery and will miss the next 8-10 weeks. This will affect Mike Ribeiro and Brenden Morrow, who had forged one of the best lines in the league with Lehtinen. The recent flurry by Dallas has allowed them to open up some space on a division that is middling, at best. The Ducks are 8-3-3 at home but have been outscored 70-61. In San Jose, the Sharks are second in the league in goals allowed (2.09) but are an inexplicable 3-5-1 at home. Injuries have hurt the Sharks, with the likes of Ryan Clowe and Marcel Goc on IR. Jonathan Cheechoo continues to struggle, with seven points in 22 games. Evgeni Nabokov should be an All-Star this year: third in the league in minutes played (1307) with a 2.02 GAA and three shutouts. As described above, Phoenix is making a move behind new tender Bryzgalov. Shane Doan’s 18 points leads the way on a club with eight players in double figures. The Los Angeles Kings have won one of their last seven, and have lost Scott Thornton to injury (groin). Alexander Frolov is battling a chest injury, and is day-to-day. Ugly stat: defensemen Lubomir Visnovsky and Rob Blake are a combined -22.
Quotes courtesy ducks.com
GOALIES STAND TALL: Two Western netminders were included in the NHL’s Three Stars of the Week for the week ending Nov. 24. Ilya Bryzgalov, claimed by Phoenix on Nov.17 after the Anaheim Ducks placed him on waivers, was selected as 2nd Star for posting a 3-0-0 record with a 1.62 GAA and .938 SV%. Mike Smith of the Stars was selected as 3rd Star, also going 3-0-0, with a 1.00 GAA and .963 SV%.
The move of Bryzgalov to the desert came after several teams had made calls to Ducks’ GM Brian Burke about the 27-year old goaler, but no deal ever came to fruition. With J.S. Giguere under contract for four years, and with up-and-comer Jonas Hiller waiting in the wings at Portland (AHL), Burke agreed to let Bryzgalov go via the waiver wire. Burke made the following statement:
“He’s been great. He has not asked for a trade. This whole schematic here is mine. He never came to me and said, ‘I want out.’ His agent never said ‘I want out.’ When we signed Hiller during the playoffs, you didn’t hear a word out of Bryz. We gave Giguere the four-year deal with a no-trade clause and you didn’t hear a word out of Bryz. He’s been terrific.
"I think organizations need to have reputations for honest answers with their players. And since this player came through for us: he won three playoff rounds in the last two years, he’s a quality person who helped us win, then he deserves to go somewhere else and play. The market has not materialized and I’m keeping my word today.”
The Coyotes have welcomed him with open arms. Opening Night starter David Aebischer, who appeared in that one game with Phoenix, has been loaned to HC Lugano of the Swiss-A league. The Dogs had been switching off between Mikael Tellqvist and Alex Auld in net; the arrival of Bryzgalov should give them some stability in that position. If they can get their game going at home (PHX is 4-7-0 at home but 7-3-0 on the road), the Coyotes could still make a run for a playoff spot.
Meanwhile, in Dallas, Mike Smith has helped what was a beleaguered Stars club regain an even keel. On Nov. 10th at Los Angeles, Dallas coughed up a four-goal lead, allowing five goals in a Kings’ record 5:07, and ended up losing to the Kings in OT, 6-5. Marty Turco took the loss in a game that not only shook his confidence, but embarrassed the entire organization. GM Doug Armstrong was fired three days later, replaced on an interim basis by assistant GM Les Jackson and former Star Brett Hull. The pair will run the hockey department for the rest of the year. It is an interesting idea, to say the least, and it may fall apart completely. However, the team has flourished since the move, winning six straight games after a shootout loss at home to San Jose. Smith has been a rock in net, especially on Sunday past at Madison Square Garden, stopping a career-high 39 shots in an improbable 3-2 victory over the New York Rangers. Could there be a move in the works… and could it be Turco moving on? I should point out that I have heard nothing in that vein… it is pure speculation on my part. The biggest problem about that idea is finding someone who would take Turco’s contract (one of the items that got Armstrong in hot water with the fans in the first place…).
CENTRAL DIVISION
For the past two seasons, the Central Division has been one of the weaker divisions in the league; with only two teams (Detroit and Nashville) making the playoffs. With the weakness of the other Central clubs, the Wings and Preds rolled up 100+ point seasons last year, while 3rd place St. Louis could only muster 81 points.
Change has arrived in the Central. While Detroit still leads the division (and conference) with 34 points, St. Louis and Chicago currently hold the 4th and 5th slots in the West with 26 points each. Also with 26 points (7th in West) are the Columbus Blue Jackets.
Each club is facing injury problems. The Blackhawks have lost C Kevyn Adams for the year to an ACL injury, but will get RW Jason Williams and RW Martin Havlat for tonight’s match against Tampa Bay. The Jackets are missing LW Fredrik Modin and D Duvie Westcott., with C Jiri Novotny listed as day-to-day with a bum shoulder. The Blues’ Martin Rucinsky is dealing with a bruised hand; while rookie RW David Backes is out with an MCL injury.
While those clubs have been on the rise, the Predators are struggling to keep pace. They are only two points out of the playoffs at this early stage, but have scored one less goal than they have allowed (62 to 63). In addition their special teams rank in the bottom third in the league; and starting goalie Chris Mason is sporting a goals-against of 3.07 and an .897 SV%.
NORTHWEST DIVISION
The Vancouver Canucks have charged to the forefront by winning five of their last seven; the last two coming via back-to-back shutouts from Roberto Luongo. The Canucks are 7-1-2 in their last ten; and have been road warriors (7-3-1 away from GM Place). A 6-6-1 home mark is perplexing, to say the least. Minnesota has faded a bit after a strong start to the year, but still hold down second place. The Wild has split their last ten; and for the season are being outshot almost every night. Colorado takes no prisoners on home ice (9-2-0), but are a poor 3-7-1 on the road; and have been outscored 63-66 this season. The Avs power play (13.2%) has been anemic despite the addition of Ryan Smyth; and the team ranks 27th in faceoffs won. The Flames are struggling under Mike Keenan – or is it the play of Miikka Kiprusoff? Kipper is on his way to the worst season of his career: 10-10-3, 2.96, .886 SV%. The trio of Jarome Iginla (33pts.), Alex Tanguay (22), and Daymond Langkow (21) leads the way on offense, but the defense and 27th ranked penalty kill have been Calgary’s undoing. Edmonton has been racked by injuries, with five players on IR. The Oil has been outscored 74-57, and has the worst power play in the league. It looks to be a long, cold, and restless winter in Alberta.
PACIFIC DIVISION
Despite the upheaval in Dallas mentioned above, the Stars have moved to the top of the division. For the first time in seemingly forever, Dallas is averaging three goals a game. The Stars are 7-1-2 in their last ten games, and are once again above .500 on the road. There are bumps ahead, however. Marty Turco must get his game in order if the Stars are to hold their position. Also, Selke Award winner Jere Lehtinen requires hernia surgery and will miss the next 8-10 weeks. This will affect Mike Ribeiro and Brenden Morrow, who had forged one of the best lines in the league with Lehtinen. The recent flurry by Dallas has allowed them to open up some space on a division that is middling, at best. The Ducks are 8-3-3 at home but have been outscored 70-61. In San Jose, the Sharks are second in the league in goals allowed (2.09) but are an inexplicable 3-5-1 at home. Injuries have hurt the Sharks, with the likes of Ryan Clowe and Marcel Goc on IR. Jonathan Cheechoo continues to struggle, with seven points in 22 games. Evgeni Nabokov should be an All-Star this year: third in the league in minutes played (1307) with a 2.02 GAA and three shutouts. As described above, Phoenix is making a move behind new tender Bryzgalov. Shane Doan’s 18 points leads the way on a club with eight players in double figures. The Los Angeles Kings have won one of their last seven, and have lost Scott Thornton to injury (groin). Alexander Frolov is battling a chest injury, and is day-to-day. Ugly stat: defensemen Lubomir Visnovsky and Rob Blake are a combined -22.
Quotes courtesy ducks.com
Saturday, November 10, 2007
MISER'S WESTERN ROUNDUP
We’re nearing the quarter-pole of the 2007-08 NHL season. (Can it really be November already? Seems like the season started just last week…) Looking at the top of the Western Conference, one might think this was the “old” NHL, where teams could win simply by opening their wallets to procure the talent they needed.
The similarities stop there.
Look past the top three, and you not only see the effects of the “new”, salary-capped league, but also the infusion of youth and talent that some clubs have been able to assemble. In my estimation, there are three clubs in the West with serious designs on the Stanley Cup, two upstart clubs, and then a gaggle of teams hoping to squeeze their way into the postseason.
THE CONTENDERS
Detroit (12-2-1, 25pts): The Wings started out with wins in four of their first seven games. Since then, they have won eight straight, outscoring opponents 29-13 in that span. Henrik Zetterberg has played like a man on a mission, recording at least one point in all 15 games, and leading the NHL in scoring (12-13-25). Five of his goals have come on the power play, and he is winning 57.4% of his faceoffs. I haven’t even mentioned the names Datsyuk, Holmstrom, Lidstrom, or Rafalski (all with 12 points or more). Chris Osgood has won all eight games during the streak (8-0-0, 1.48 GAA). It’s early, but it appears that the only team that can stop Detroit is…. Detroit, or possibly….
Colorado (10-5-0, 20pts): After missing the playoffs last season, the Avs have stormed back to prominence. Ryan Smyth has worked his way into the offense nearly seamlessly, but the best part for Smyth is that he doesn’t have to be THE man in Denver. With Joe Sakic, Paul Stastny, and Andrew Brunette leading the way (15 G, 34 A between them), Smyth can use his skills in a complementary fashion. The Avs have yet to max out their talents, which should scare the rest of the West.
Minnesota (9-4-2, 20pts): My apologies to all Wild fans. I thought Minnesota would get buried by an early, road-heavy schedule. I was wrong, OK? (To my relatives in Minny… ARE YOU HAPPY NOW?) Niklas Backstrom (7-1-1, 1.88 GAA) is the real thing. Balanced scoring – six players have 10+ points – keeps opponents guessing. Of the three contenders, Minnesota is the longshot, but they could be dangerous.
THE UPSTARTS
Columbus (8-4-2, 18pts): Ken Hitchcock is working his magic once more. The jackets have a good mix of talent and grit. Rick Nash (16 pts) and Nik Zherdev (10 pts) lead the way, while Sergei Fedorov, Jason Chimera, and Jiri Novotny have chipped in with timely scoring. Netmindr Pascal Leclaire has been a huge surprise, going 7-2-0 with five (yes, FIVE) shutouts. The biggest question marks: 1) Can Leclaire continue this torrid pace? 2) Lack of scoring depth – Nash has 10 goals; no other Jacket has more than four.
Chicago (8-7-0, 16pts): While the Blackhawks mourn the passing of team president William Wirtz off the ice, there is a renaissance beginning on the ice. Patrick Kane (5-12-17), Johnathan Toews (6-7-13), and Patrick Sharp (6-4-10) bring scoring and loads of youthful enthusiasm to the Windy City, while experience is provided by Robert Lang, Jason Williams, and Yanic Perreault. The D-corps is solid, if unspectacular. The question mark is in net. Nik Khabibulin (5-6-0) has a GAA north of 3 and a save% south of .900. If the “Bulin Wall” can be patched up, the ‘Hawks might just scare somebody.
THE GAGGLE
Dallas (7-7-2, 16pts): OK, so they lead the Pacific and would claim the No. 3 seed if the postseason started today. That means very little. To say the Stars are inconsistent would be an understatement. Dallas has yet to string three wins together, and has lost five of their last eight. Last week, the Stars lost three consecutive home games; surrendering third period leads in two of them and getting shutout by Phoenix in the third. The Stars are poster boys for mediocrity. 3-3-1 at home. 4-4-1 on the road. 5-5-0 in their last ten. 44 goals scored, and 44 goals allowed. There was no move to add scoring during the summer, and the normally solid defense and goaltending have become pourous. The only positive right now is the weakness of the Pacific Division. It might be the only reason the Stars qualify for the postseason – someone has to win it.
San Jose (7-7-1, 15pts): See Dallas above. The Sharks are fantastic on the road (6-3-1), but abysmal so far at home (1-4-0). C Joe Thornton is on a point per game pace, but forwards Jonathan Cheechoo (6 pts) and Patrick Marleau (5 pts) are far behind last year’s pace. Once again, the weakness of the Pacific may be their salvation.
Nashville (7-7-1, 15pts): Winners in three of their last four, the Preds currently hold down the eighth seed in the West. After winning their first two, Nashville lost six straight by a combined 29-9. The power play is in the bottom third in the league, and the Preds allow just over 30 shots each game. Dan Ellis has surprised as the backup to Chris Mason. The former Stars product is 4-0-0 with two shutouts.
Calgary (6-7-3, 15pts): I had Calgary winning the Northwest in my preview, which tells you how prescient I am. This is a head-scratcher. Last season, people were talking about how Miikka Kipprusoff had an off-year. What are they saying now? Kipper has struggled (6-7-3, 3.14, .884) this year. Has his new contract – a six-year extension – made him too comfortable? Is new coach Mike Keenan playing him too much? Is the defense that bad? Of all the teams currently treading water, I still think Calgary is in the best position to improve. From the quotes I have read, the Flames are still looking for a full, 60-minute effort (sounds familiar to those who follow Dallas…). Can Keenan find the right buttons to push?
Anaheim (6-8-3, 15pts): The Ducks look lost. They are a shell of their former selves. Anaheim has been outscored 49-39 so far, and have not won more than two games in a row. Injuries have played a role (Rob Niedermayer, Ryan Getzlaf, and Mathieu Schneider missed time), and the short summer combined with the London trip to start the year haven’t helped, either. The biggest problem seems to be that Anaheim just wants to tread water (so to speak) until Scott Niedermayer and Teemu Selaane make a triumphant return. The Ducks need to move forward without them. NOW. It really is poor form for those two to hold their club and fans hostage just because they got a ring. It’s time for those two to decide. Play or go home.
That’s all for now. I want to wish everyone a very Happy Thanksgiving! Talk to you again soon.
Peace.
The similarities stop there.
Look past the top three, and you not only see the effects of the “new”, salary-capped league, but also the infusion of youth and talent that some clubs have been able to assemble. In my estimation, there are three clubs in the West with serious designs on the Stanley Cup, two upstart clubs, and then a gaggle of teams hoping to squeeze their way into the postseason.
THE CONTENDERS
Detroit (12-2-1, 25pts): The Wings started out with wins in four of their first seven games. Since then, they have won eight straight, outscoring opponents 29-13 in that span. Henrik Zetterberg has played like a man on a mission, recording at least one point in all 15 games, and leading the NHL in scoring (12-13-25). Five of his goals have come on the power play, and he is winning 57.4% of his faceoffs. I haven’t even mentioned the names Datsyuk, Holmstrom, Lidstrom, or Rafalski (all with 12 points or more). Chris Osgood has won all eight games during the streak (8-0-0, 1.48 GAA). It’s early, but it appears that the only team that can stop Detroit is…. Detroit, or possibly….
Colorado (10-5-0, 20pts): After missing the playoffs last season, the Avs have stormed back to prominence. Ryan Smyth has worked his way into the offense nearly seamlessly, but the best part for Smyth is that he doesn’t have to be THE man in Denver. With Joe Sakic, Paul Stastny, and Andrew Brunette leading the way (15 G, 34 A between them), Smyth can use his skills in a complementary fashion. The Avs have yet to max out their talents, which should scare the rest of the West.
Minnesota (9-4-2, 20pts): My apologies to all Wild fans. I thought Minnesota would get buried by an early, road-heavy schedule. I was wrong, OK? (To my relatives in Minny… ARE YOU HAPPY NOW?) Niklas Backstrom (7-1-1, 1.88 GAA) is the real thing. Balanced scoring – six players have 10+ points – keeps opponents guessing. Of the three contenders, Minnesota is the longshot, but they could be dangerous.
THE UPSTARTS
Columbus (8-4-2, 18pts): Ken Hitchcock is working his magic once more. The jackets have a good mix of talent and grit. Rick Nash (16 pts) and Nik Zherdev (10 pts) lead the way, while Sergei Fedorov, Jason Chimera, and Jiri Novotny have chipped in with timely scoring. Netmindr Pascal Leclaire has been a huge surprise, going 7-2-0 with five (yes, FIVE) shutouts. The biggest question marks: 1) Can Leclaire continue this torrid pace? 2) Lack of scoring depth – Nash has 10 goals; no other Jacket has more than four.
Chicago (8-7-0, 16pts): While the Blackhawks mourn the passing of team president William Wirtz off the ice, there is a renaissance beginning on the ice. Patrick Kane (5-12-17), Johnathan Toews (6-7-13), and Patrick Sharp (6-4-10) bring scoring and loads of youthful enthusiasm to the Windy City, while experience is provided by Robert Lang, Jason Williams, and Yanic Perreault. The D-corps is solid, if unspectacular. The question mark is in net. Nik Khabibulin (5-6-0) has a GAA north of 3 and a save% south of .900. If the “Bulin Wall” can be patched up, the ‘Hawks might just scare somebody.
THE GAGGLE
Dallas (7-7-2, 16pts): OK, so they lead the Pacific and would claim the No. 3 seed if the postseason started today. That means very little. To say the Stars are inconsistent would be an understatement. Dallas has yet to string three wins together, and has lost five of their last eight. Last week, the Stars lost three consecutive home games; surrendering third period leads in two of them and getting shutout by Phoenix in the third. The Stars are poster boys for mediocrity. 3-3-1 at home. 4-4-1 on the road. 5-5-0 in their last ten. 44 goals scored, and 44 goals allowed. There was no move to add scoring during the summer, and the normally solid defense and goaltending have become pourous. The only positive right now is the weakness of the Pacific Division. It might be the only reason the Stars qualify for the postseason – someone has to win it.
San Jose (7-7-1, 15pts): See Dallas above. The Sharks are fantastic on the road (6-3-1), but abysmal so far at home (1-4-0). C Joe Thornton is on a point per game pace, but forwards Jonathan Cheechoo (6 pts) and Patrick Marleau (5 pts) are far behind last year’s pace. Once again, the weakness of the Pacific may be their salvation.
Nashville (7-7-1, 15pts): Winners in three of their last four, the Preds currently hold down the eighth seed in the West. After winning their first two, Nashville lost six straight by a combined 29-9. The power play is in the bottom third in the league, and the Preds allow just over 30 shots each game. Dan Ellis has surprised as the backup to Chris Mason. The former Stars product is 4-0-0 with two shutouts.
Calgary (6-7-3, 15pts): I had Calgary winning the Northwest in my preview, which tells you how prescient I am. This is a head-scratcher. Last season, people were talking about how Miikka Kipprusoff had an off-year. What are they saying now? Kipper has struggled (6-7-3, 3.14, .884) this year. Has his new contract – a six-year extension – made him too comfortable? Is new coach Mike Keenan playing him too much? Is the defense that bad? Of all the teams currently treading water, I still think Calgary is in the best position to improve. From the quotes I have read, the Flames are still looking for a full, 60-minute effort (sounds familiar to those who follow Dallas…). Can Keenan find the right buttons to push?
Anaheim (6-8-3, 15pts): The Ducks look lost. They are a shell of their former selves. Anaheim has been outscored 49-39 so far, and have not won more than two games in a row. Injuries have played a role (Rob Niedermayer, Ryan Getzlaf, and Mathieu Schneider missed time), and the short summer combined with the London trip to start the year haven’t helped, either. The biggest problem seems to be that Anaheim just wants to tread water (so to speak) until Scott Niedermayer and Teemu Selaane make a triumphant return. The Ducks need to move forward without them. NOW. It really is poor form for those two to hold their club and fans hostage just because they got a ring. It’s time for those two to decide. Play or go home.
That’s all for now. I want to wish everyone a very Happy Thanksgiving! Talk to you again soon.
Peace.
Wednesday, September 26, 2007
MISER'S WESTERN ROUNDUP
Hello, everyone! Before I begin, I would like to thank Gregsky for the opportunity to be a guest here on ATR. I hope you will find that my work is worthy of the kind remarks he made in his announcement. So, without further ado, let’s get to it!
First, I’ll go through the West by order of finish last season and give you a few thoughts on each team. Afterwards, I’ll give you my predictions for the upcoming season.
DETROIT RED WINGS 50-19-13 113 PTS Lost in Conf. Final (ANA)
It always galls me when Detroit is more successful than my Stars, but respect must be given to the defending Central Division champs. DET was in the top ten in goals against (2.33, 2nd), goals scored (3.07, 10th), and penalty kill (84.6%, T6). Those ingredients are always going to get you far. The Wings lost three of their top eight scorers over the summer; saying goodbye to Robert Lang, Mathieu Schneider, and Kyle Calder. My question: SO? Any club that can ice the likes of Datsyuk, Zetterberg, and Lidstrom is a dangerous club, indeed. Adding Dallas Drake and Brian Rafalski to the mix does nothing but help. For leadership, look to Methuselah – I mean – Chris Chelios. He just keeps going and going. The only question: Can Dominik Hasek stay healthy. If not, just how much confidence is there is Chris Osgood?
ANAHEIM DUCKS 48-20-14 110 PTS STANLEY CUP CHAMPIONS
What do you say? Yes, Dustin Penner was plucked away by the Oil; and Selanne and Niedermayer are taking more time than they should to decide whether or not to return. However, the majority of this club is intact. The aforementioned Mr. Schneider now calls Anaheim home, as does one of his teammates in Detroit: Todd Bertuzzi. J.S. Giguere returns, as does underrated (in my mind) backup Ilya Bryzgalov. The Ducks finished in the top eight in offense, defense, PP%, and PK%. Will they return to the Finals? Probably not, but they will makes teams work to the limit before they give up the crown.
VANCOUVER CANUCKS 49-26-7 105 PTS Lost in 2nd Round (ANA)
Ah, yes, the cause of my distress for these several months: Roberto Luongo. Luongo outlasted Marty Turco as Vancouver ousted Dallas in one of the finest seven-game series one could ever see. He is back, as are the Sedin twins, Markus Naslund, Brendan Morrison, and company. I’m not sure if Ryan Shannon helps the offense much, but Aaron Miller is an upgrade over Brent Sopel, which should make it even more difficult to score on the ‘Nucks. For all of that, this team goes only as far as Luongo can carry them; meaning that they may bow out in the second round again, or not make the postseason at all.
NASHVILLE PREDATORS 51-23-8 110 PTS Lost in 1st Round (SJ)
OK, so you lose Paul Kariya, Scott Hartnell, and Tomas Vokoun. To replace them, you bring in Radek Bonk, Greg DeVries, and you put Chris Mason (84 games of NHL experience) in net, backed up by Finn Pekka Rinne (with all of 63 MINUTES in the NHL). While you’re doing that, people are trying to move you to Hamilton, or KC, or Fort Nelson, or some other place. New captain Jason Arnott looks to have a long season ahead of him. The Preds look to have lost their fangs.
SAN JOSE SHARKS 51-26-5 107 PTS Lost in 2nd Round (DET)
I think the Sharks are a dangerous team with the size, speed, and skill to win a title. Of course, I said that last year, and the year before that, etc. When I look at a roster and see Thornton, Marleau, Cheechoo, Clowe, and Grier, I think that is a group that can do some damage. Yet, San Jose has fallen short of expectations. Bill Guerin was a late-season rental who now plies his craft as the captain on Long Island. The netminding tandem of Evgeni Nabokov and Vesa Toskala has been split up, with Toskala going to Toronto in exchange for three draft picks. I really don’t know why they bothered to sign Jeremy Roenick (please JR, don’t bitch when you get no ice time). The biggest thing working in favor of the Sharks is the more than $12 million in cap space they have to make a move or two. The pressure is on in San Jose – will they be able to breathe?
DALLAS STARS 50-25-7 107 PTS Lost in 1st Round (VAN)
I will try to be as objective as I can, but it is difficult to do so when talk turns to my hometown boys. Yes, they suffered another early exit. No, neither Marty Turco nor Coach Dave Tippett have ever advanced past the first round. No, Dallas made no splash in free agency. That said, please remember that the Stars battled through numerous injuries all year long, losing almost 300 man-games. Mike Modano missed 23 games. Brenden Morrow missed 33 games after a nasty wrist injury (stepped on and sliced at Chicago in late December. Pot-stirrer Steve Ott missed 63 games due to an ankle injury. Despite all of these issues and more, Dallas posted a 100-point season, and Marty Turco answered all the critics in the playoff series. Dallas needs three things in order to play past the first round: 1) stay healthy, and 2) hope the kids (Joel Lundqvist, Loui Eriksson, Junior Lessard) can step forward and help the offense. Finally, forwards Jussi Jokinen (who just signed a two-year deal) and Antti Miettinen (who got his salary doubled in arbitration despite contributing little) must prove they belong at this level.
MINNESOTA WILD 48-26-8 104 PTS Lost in 1st Round (ANA)
The Wild didn’t lose that much, and seemed to have found a No. 1 tender in Niklas Backstrom. They sent Manny Fernandez to Boston to make room for Backstrom and 2002 draft pick Josh Harding. One would like to think they have enough talent to improve on last season’s finish. Problem: This is essentially the same group that was blasted out of the first round in five games. Minnesota’s power play was nonexistent in the series (7.4%), and the penalty kill was dead last among all 16 playoff qualifiers. Does that linger with the club? Minnesota plays seven of their first eleven games on the road – if there is a hangover, the Wild could get buried early.
CALGARY FLAMES 43-29-10 96 PTS Lost in 1st Round (DET)
I read one preview that said goaltender Miikka Kipprusoff had an “off-year”. Excuse me? The guy wins 40 games (seven by shutout), a 2.46 GAA and a .917 SV% and it is an “off-year”? How many teams would pass on that? I thought so. This team has loads of talent and experience. The Flames scored 3.11 goals per game and allowed 2.70. They were in the top half in the league on the PP, but were 22nd on the kill (is that why Kipper was said to be “off”?). Can new coach Mike Keenan put the right people in the right positions? Jarome Iginla enters his 10th season with Calgary. While it’s not “now or never” for him, his window isn’t going to open any wider. The Northwest may well be the toughest division in the league, and it is difficult to say how that will affect them when the playoffs start. It will be very interesting to watch, though.
COLORADO AVALANCHE 44-31-7 95 PTS 9th in West
Look out: here come the Avs. Ryan Smyth and Scott Hannan join a club that finished with a flourish (winning 15 of their final 19 games), but came up just short of the postseason. Smyth joins Paul Stastny, Wojtek Wolski (who I believe will have an all-star type of year), J.M. Liles, and the ageless Joe Sakic on an offense that shouldn’t miss a beat. The Avs scored 3.26 goals per game last season. The biggest impact Smyth and D-man Hannan will make is on the power play, which was in the bottom third last year. Peter Budaj is solid in net, but overpaid head case Jose Theodore is his backup. An injury to Budaj could derail hopes in Denver.
ST. LOUIS BLUES 34-35-13 81 PTS 10TH in West
Look out again: Here come the Blues. The additions of Paul Kariya and Keith Tkachuk immediately improve the offense. The blueline is well-manned with Eric Brewer, Barrett Jackman, Jay McKee, and big, young Erik Johnson, the number one pick in the 2006 Draft. I was able to see Johnson when St. Louis visited Dallas last week for the preseason opener, and I was immediately impressed. At 6’ 4” and listed at 222 pounds, he already cuts an imposing figure – give him a couple years to fill out and he will be a behemoth. He scored a goal that night, showing a better than average shot. He played in all situations and acquitted himself well. His potential is unlimited right now. St. Louis will make the playoffs this year, and they just might be the surprise team in the West playoffs.
COLUMBUS BLUE JACKETS 33-42-7 73 PTS 11th in West
The Jackets finished in the bottom half of every major category, but there may be some hope. Scott Howson replaces Doug MacLean as GM, and many claim that move is “addition by subtraction”. Secondly, Ken Hitchcock begins his first full season as coach. This gives him the chance to fully install his system and begin to instill higher levels of responsibility and work ethic in his charges. Hopefully, Rick Nash, Nik Zherdev, and company will listen and take Hitch’s lessons to heart. However, this club is still at least two years away or more. Goalie Pascal Leclaire is on IR, which means the job is up for grabs between Frederik Norrena and a bunch of guys I’ve never heard of. There is much to do, much to teach, much to learn. By the way, I haven’t mentioned Sergei Fedorov at all… is he that irrelevant?
EDMONTON OILERS 32-43-7 71 PTS 12th in West
I feel for Oiler fans. I have always had a quiet admiration of the Oil dating back to the seemingly annual meetings with Dallas in the playoffs. Just watching the fans go nuts at Northlands/Skyreach/Rexall would always give me chills. Now, they have to pick up the pieces after having their heart and soul ripped out. When Ryan Smyth was traded to the Islanders, Kevin Lowe was nearly run out of Alberta on a rail as the Oilers went into freefall (winning two of 20 games). Now Oiler fans will watch in pain as Smyth leads the Avs back to the postseason. When Lowe tried to sign Tomas Vanek to a huge deal (which failed), then succeeded in signing Dustin Penner to a huge contract, GM’s around the league wanted to run him out of the league. Penner and Geoff Sanderson will help, but it won’t be nearly enough to resuscitate an offense that finished last in the NHL. Sheldon Souray and Joni Pitkanen were brought in to bolster the D-corps. While Souray will definitely help on the power play (19 PPG with MTL last year), Souray and Pitkanen were a combined -53 last year. Dwayne Roloson will be a very busy man in net. The Oil are a year away… at least.
CHICAGO BLACKHAWKS 31-42-9 71 PTS 13th in West
The ‘Hawks had the second-worst offense in the league, and the ninth-worst defense. So, what’s to like? Well…. Um…. OK: Robert Lang, and draft picks Johnathan Toews (2006) and Jack Skille (2005) might be able to help Tuomo Ruttu on offense. Kevyn Adams adds a little depth, but not much scoring. Yanic Perrault and Sergei Samsonov bring a dash of scoring. On defense, Cam Barker may see more time with the big club. Brent Seabrook is durable (81 games, 104 PIM). Of course, these are the ‘Hawks, and things are never easy. Toews injured his hand last week and might be available for the opener. Things are never easy in Chicago…..
LOS ANGELES KINGS 27-41-14 68 PTS 14th in West
The Kings may have put together one of the best young teams in the league. Anze Kopitar, Alex Frolov, and Derek Armstrong are joined by Kyle Calder, Michael Handzus, and Ladislav Nagy (I don’t know what is so great about Nagy – he contributed precious little here in Dallas and was considered “soft”.) Brad Stuart and Tom Preissing will provide solid help on the blueline, where youngster Jack Johnson will get loads of time this year. What will keep the Kings from making the playoffs? Goaltending. Dan Cloutier was recently sent to the minors, leaving Jason LaBarbera and J. S. Aubin to guard (?) the nets. The Kings will be spoilers this year, but look like contenders in the future.
PHOENIX COYOTES 31-46-5 67 PTS 15 in West
Everything I read suggests that the Coyotes may finally have a good group of prospects, but that won’t help them this year. Poor on offense, decent on defense, and with a near vacuum in goal, it will be another long, difficult year in the desert. Phoenix may be fortunate to net 67 points again this season.
My predicted order of finish (Please, no wagering):
1) Calgary
2) Detroit
3) San Jose
4) Vancouver
5) Colorado
6) Anaheim
7) Dallas
8) St. Louis
9) Los Angeles
10) Minnesota
11) Nashville
12) Edmonton
13) Columbus
14) Chicago
15) Phoenix
There you have it. I’ll check in from time to time throughout the year. Peace.
First, I’ll go through the West by order of finish last season and give you a few thoughts on each team. Afterwards, I’ll give you my predictions for the upcoming season.
DETROIT RED WINGS 50-19-13 113 PTS Lost in Conf. Final (ANA)
It always galls me when Detroit is more successful than my Stars, but respect must be given to the defending Central Division champs. DET was in the top ten in goals against (2.33, 2nd), goals scored (3.07, 10th), and penalty kill (84.6%, T6). Those ingredients are always going to get you far. The Wings lost three of their top eight scorers over the summer; saying goodbye to Robert Lang, Mathieu Schneider, and Kyle Calder. My question: SO? Any club that can ice the likes of Datsyuk, Zetterberg, and Lidstrom is a dangerous club, indeed. Adding Dallas Drake and Brian Rafalski to the mix does nothing but help. For leadership, look to Methuselah – I mean – Chris Chelios. He just keeps going and going. The only question: Can Dominik Hasek stay healthy. If not, just how much confidence is there is Chris Osgood?
ANAHEIM DUCKS 48-20-14 110 PTS STANLEY CUP CHAMPIONS
What do you say? Yes, Dustin Penner was plucked away by the Oil; and Selanne and Niedermayer are taking more time than they should to decide whether or not to return. However, the majority of this club is intact. The aforementioned Mr. Schneider now calls Anaheim home, as does one of his teammates in Detroit: Todd Bertuzzi. J.S. Giguere returns, as does underrated (in my mind) backup Ilya Bryzgalov. The Ducks finished in the top eight in offense, defense, PP%, and PK%. Will they return to the Finals? Probably not, but they will makes teams work to the limit before they give up the crown.
VANCOUVER CANUCKS 49-26-7 105 PTS Lost in 2nd Round (ANA)
Ah, yes, the cause of my distress for these several months: Roberto Luongo. Luongo outlasted Marty Turco as Vancouver ousted Dallas in one of the finest seven-game series one could ever see. He is back, as are the Sedin twins, Markus Naslund, Brendan Morrison, and company. I’m not sure if Ryan Shannon helps the offense much, but Aaron Miller is an upgrade over Brent Sopel, which should make it even more difficult to score on the ‘Nucks. For all of that, this team goes only as far as Luongo can carry them; meaning that they may bow out in the second round again, or not make the postseason at all.
NASHVILLE PREDATORS 51-23-8 110 PTS Lost in 1st Round (SJ)
OK, so you lose Paul Kariya, Scott Hartnell, and Tomas Vokoun. To replace them, you bring in Radek Bonk, Greg DeVries, and you put Chris Mason (84 games of NHL experience) in net, backed up by Finn Pekka Rinne (with all of 63 MINUTES in the NHL). While you’re doing that, people are trying to move you to Hamilton, or KC, or Fort Nelson, or some other place. New captain Jason Arnott looks to have a long season ahead of him. The Preds look to have lost their fangs.
SAN JOSE SHARKS 51-26-5 107 PTS Lost in 2nd Round (DET)
I think the Sharks are a dangerous team with the size, speed, and skill to win a title. Of course, I said that last year, and the year before that, etc. When I look at a roster and see Thornton, Marleau, Cheechoo, Clowe, and Grier, I think that is a group that can do some damage. Yet, San Jose has fallen short of expectations. Bill Guerin was a late-season rental who now plies his craft as the captain on Long Island. The netminding tandem of Evgeni Nabokov and Vesa Toskala has been split up, with Toskala going to Toronto in exchange for three draft picks. I really don’t know why they bothered to sign Jeremy Roenick (please JR, don’t bitch when you get no ice time). The biggest thing working in favor of the Sharks is the more than $12 million in cap space they have to make a move or two. The pressure is on in San Jose – will they be able to breathe?
DALLAS STARS 50-25-7 107 PTS Lost in 1st Round (VAN)
I will try to be as objective as I can, but it is difficult to do so when talk turns to my hometown boys. Yes, they suffered another early exit. No, neither Marty Turco nor Coach Dave Tippett have ever advanced past the first round. No, Dallas made no splash in free agency. That said, please remember that the Stars battled through numerous injuries all year long, losing almost 300 man-games. Mike Modano missed 23 games. Brenden Morrow missed 33 games after a nasty wrist injury (stepped on and sliced at Chicago in late December. Pot-stirrer Steve Ott missed 63 games due to an ankle injury. Despite all of these issues and more, Dallas posted a 100-point season, and Marty Turco answered all the critics in the playoff series. Dallas needs three things in order to play past the first round: 1) stay healthy, and 2) hope the kids (Joel Lundqvist, Loui Eriksson, Junior Lessard) can step forward and help the offense. Finally, forwards Jussi Jokinen (who just signed a two-year deal) and Antti Miettinen (who got his salary doubled in arbitration despite contributing little) must prove they belong at this level.
MINNESOTA WILD 48-26-8 104 PTS Lost in 1st Round (ANA)
The Wild didn’t lose that much, and seemed to have found a No. 1 tender in Niklas Backstrom. They sent Manny Fernandez to Boston to make room for Backstrom and 2002 draft pick Josh Harding. One would like to think they have enough talent to improve on last season’s finish. Problem: This is essentially the same group that was blasted out of the first round in five games. Minnesota’s power play was nonexistent in the series (7.4%), and the penalty kill was dead last among all 16 playoff qualifiers. Does that linger with the club? Minnesota plays seven of their first eleven games on the road – if there is a hangover, the Wild could get buried early.
CALGARY FLAMES 43-29-10 96 PTS Lost in 1st Round (DET)
I read one preview that said goaltender Miikka Kipprusoff had an “off-year”. Excuse me? The guy wins 40 games (seven by shutout), a 2.46 GAA and a .917 SV% and it is an “off-year”? How many teams would pass on that? I thought so. This team has loads of talent and experience. The Flames scored 3.11 goals per game and allowed 2.70. They were in the top half in the league on the PP, but were 22nd on the kill (is that why Kipper was said to be “off”?). Can new coach Mike Keenan put the right people in the right positions? Jarome Iginla enters his 10th season with Calgary. While it’s not “now or never” for him, his window isn’t going to open any wider. The Northwest may well be the toughest division in the league, and it is difficult to say how that will affect them when the playoffs start. It will be very interesting to watch, though.
COLORADO AVALANCHE 44-31-7 95 PTS 9th in West
Look out: here come the Avs. Ryan Smyth and Scott Hannan join a club that finished with a flourish (winning 15 of their final 19 games), but came up just short of the postseason. Smyth joins Paul Stastny, Wojtek Wolski (who I believe will have an all-star type of year), J.M. Liles, and the ageless Joe Sakic on an offense that shouldn’t miss a beat. The Avs scored 3.26 goals per game last season. The biggest impact Smyth and D-man Hannan will make is on the power play, which was in the bottom third last year. Peter Budaj is solid in net, but overpaid head case Jose Theodore is his backup. An injury to Budaj could derail hopes in Denver.
ST. LOUIS BLUES 34-35-13 81 PTS 10TH in West
Look out again: Here come the Blues. The additions of Paul Kariya and Keith Tkachuk immediately improve the offense. The blueline is well-manned with Eric Brewer, Barrett Jackman, Jay McKee, and big, young Erik Johnson, the number one pick in the 2006 Draft. I was able to see Johnson when St. Louis visited Dallas last week for the preseason opener, and I was immediately impressed. At 6’ 4” and listed at 222 pounds, he already cuts an imposing figure – give him a couple years to fill out and he will be a behemoth. He scored a goal that night, showing a better than average shot. He played in all situations and acquitted himself well. His potential is unlimited right now. St. Louis will make the playoffs this year, and they just might be the surprise team in the West playoffs.
COLUMBUS BLUE JACKETS 33-42-7 73 PTS 11th in West
The Jackets finished in the bottom half of every major category, but there may be some hope. Scott Howson replaces Doug MacLean as GM, and many claim that move is “addition by subtraction”. Secondly, Ken Hitchcock begins his first full season as coach. This gives him the chance to fully install his system and begin to instill higher levels of responsibility and work ethic in his charges. Hopefully, Rick Nash, Nik Zherdev, and company will listen and take Hitch’s lessons to heart. However, this club is still at least two years away or more. Goalie Pascal Leclaire is on IR, which means the job is up for grabs between Frederik Norrena and a bunch of guys I’ve never heard of. There is much to do, much to teach, much to learn. By the way, I haven’t mentioned Sergei Fedorov at all… is he that irrelevant?
EDMONTON OILERS 32-43-7 71 PTS 12th in West
I feel for Oiler fans. I have always had a quiet admiration of the Oil dating back to the seemingly annual meetings with Dallas in the playoffs. Just watching the fans go nuts at Northlands/Skyreach/Rexall would always give me chills. Now, they have to pick up the pieces after having their heart and soul ripped out. When Ryan Smyth was traded to the Islanders, Kevin Lowe was nearly run out of Alberta on a rail as the Oilers went into freefall (winning two of 20 games). Now Oiler fans will watch in pain as Smyth leads the Avs back to the postseason. When Lowe tried to sign Tomas Vanek to a huge deal (which failed), then succeeded in signing Dustin Penner to a huge contract, GM’s around the league wanted to run him out of the league. Penner and Geoff Sanderson will help, but it won’t be nearly enough to resuscitate an offense that finished last in the NHL. Sheldon Souray and Joni Pitkanen were brought in to bolster the D-corps. While Souray will definitely help on the power play (19 PPG with MTL last year), Souray and Pitkanen were a combined -53 last year. Dwayne Roloson will be a very busy man in net. The Oil are a year away… at least.
CHICAGO BLACKHAWKS 31-42-9 71 PTS 13th in West
The ‘Hawks had the second-worst offense in the league, and the ninth-worst defense. So, what’s to like? Well…. Um…. OK: Robert Lang, and draft picks Johnathan Toews (2006) and Jack Skille (2005) might be able to help Tuomo Ruttu on offense. Kevyn Adams adds a little depth, but not much scoring. Yanic Perrault and Sergei Samsonov bring a dash of scoring. On defense, Cam Barker may see more time with the big club. Brent Seabrook is durable (81 games, 104 PIM). Of course, these are the ‘Hawks, and things are never easy. Toews injured his hand last week and might be available for the opener. Things are never easy in Chicago…..
LOS ANGELES KINGS 27-41-14 68 PTS 14th in West
The Kings may have put together one of the best young teams in the league. Anze Kopitar, Alex Frolov, and Derek Armstrong are joined by Kyle Calder, Michael Handzus, and Ladislav Nagy (I don’t know what is so great about Nagy – he contributed precious little here in Dallas and was considered “soft”.) Brad Stuart and Tom Preissing will provide solid help on the blueline, where youngster Jack Johnson will get loads of time this year. What will keep the Kings from making the playoffs? Goaltending. Dan Cloutier was recently sent to the minors, leaving Jason LaBarbera and J. S. Aubin to guard (?) the nets. The Kings will be spoilers this year, but look like contenders in the future.
PHOENIX COYOTES 31-46-5 67 PTS 15 in West
Everything I read suggests that the Coyotes may finally have a good group of prospects, but that won’t help them this year. Poor on offense, decent on defense, and with a near vacuum in goal, it will be another long, difficult year in the desert. Phoenix may be fortunate to net 67 points again this season.
My predicted order of finish (Please, no wagering):
1) Calgary
2) Detroit
3) San Jose
4) Vancouver
5) Colorado
6) Anaheim
7) Dallas
8) St. Louis
9) Los Angeles
10) Minnesota
11) Nashville
12) Edmonton
13) Columbus
14) Chicago
15) Phoenix
There you have it. I’ll check in from time to time throughout the year. Peace.
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