Buckle Up Caniacs for a Bumpy Ride
by Bob Wage on Dec 3, 2009 7:00 AM EST
Email
Print
These are the times that try fans' souls.
You cheer for a last place team. A team which has had trouble scoring goals, stopping goals, staying out of the penalty box, and staying off the injured reserve. There certainly has not been much for fans of the Carolina Hurricanes to be happy about this year.
With almost one third of the season gone, the team is reaching a crossroads, as John Forslund so aptly put it the other night. Should the team assess the benefits of "blowing it up", or continue as they are?
One problem with a season like this is that the fanbase becomes more divided than ever. Some still cheer for victory. They refuse to boo. They will never give up and will always remain positive. Some hope for continued losses. They want to make sure the club qualifies for the best possible draft pick this summer and have no problem booing loudly, whenever they feel the need.
Some want a coaching change. Some want a change in the front office. Some want under-performing players to be traded or put on waivers. Some love those players and want the franchise to remain loyal to them. Some want the younger players here in Raleigh. Some want them to develop longer in the minors.
A few fans think that if people are too critical about the team, they should not even be allowed to be called "Caniacs".
There are probably more things for fans to disagree about right now, than to agree about, except for the fact that they still love the Canes.
There is good news. First of all, there are still plenty of fans. During the 2002-03 last place finish, crowds dropped to 9,000 at the RBC and seemed even smaller. There did not seem to be much interest, if any, around town.
While attendance has certainly dropped this season and the game night walk up crowd has decreased, there is still plenty of passion. The community here at Canes Country is a testament to that. We had record high numbers here last month. (thank you!).
There is still plenty to look forward to.
The Hurricanes have several good prospects who are close to coming up to the NHL level. Remember, they did win the prospects tournament in Michigan in September. They are a good bunch!
And this team could still pull some upsets, still play role of the spoiler, still put in some enjoyable performances to watch. Remember the five reasons why I love hockey article? Like the rest of you, those reasons have not changed just because the team is in last place.
But there will be challenges. For instance, you will see tons of crazy rumors like the one last week which had the Hurricanes sending two of their best prospects, (Zach Boychuk and Drayson Bowman), to Montreal for third line center, Tomas Plekanec. That makes sense, eh? They should trade away their future for a player in a position they do not even need.
You would think that if people took the time to make up rumors, (Eklund), they would at least make up something that made some sense?
But there are some interesting rumors, like this one from Spector:
OTTAWA SUN: Bruce Garrioch reports the Jackets, who recently lost defenseman Rostislav Klesla to injury, might look at Senators defenseman Brian Lee, who's believed on the trade market, but the Jackets might have more interest in Carolina Hurricanes veteran blueliner Aaron Ward, who Garrioch claims is being shopped.
Get 'er done!
________
Final Note:
We have always had a pretty liberal policy here at Canes Country regarding our comments, perhaps too liberal. We do not allow outright personal attacks, excessive profanity, or obvious trolling, but sometimes those things have gotten through. Some folk are more easily offended than others, but I would like there to be a happy medium so that everyone, or at least the vast majority, can feel comfortable posting here and reading the comments.
To that affect, we will be working on some Community Guidelines, so at the very least, people will know the boundaries that we strive for and how people can notify us when they feel that the lines have been crossed.
This will also take into consideration how visitors should be treated, or how much rope they should be given, when they come here to "talk hockey" immediately after a tough loss or a key player gets injured.
While everyone is welcome, this is a home for Hurricanes fans first, and foremost, so please let me know your ideas, complaints, frustrations, and suggestions. Everything will be taken into consideration. Send them to canescountry@gmail.com.
174 comments
|
0 recs |
Do you like this story?
Comments
Strange days, indeed, and interesting times. JR mentioned in one of his flurry of interviews lately that he’s been on the phone more in the last month than any other time in his career. He recognizes that changes need to be made, but he’s smart enough not to panic and make a bad deal. A combination of injuries and — imo — a deficit in the hockey god’s karma bank have made this season a challenge. Throw in hindsight-revealed questionable signings and we have a year that many Canes fans will remember as probably the low point for this team. Whether the groundwork is laid for a resurgence in 10-11 remains to be seen, but in the meantime buckle up, keep the keyboard oiled, and Go Canes!
And even when he did panic....
…it worked out. Make no mistake, the Jack Johnson deal was a complete and total panic trade. The team even had to trot out Forslund to blog and say " While it might look like a bad trade now…. " to try and stop the bleeding. Everyone thought we got completely shafted on that one. We were really really lucky that Timmy G turned out to be what he is.
it always burns within
the downward spiral never ends
when driven into sin
your salvation's found in a sinner's deed
by Douchebag St John on Dec 3, 2009 1:07 PM EST up reply actions
I’ll take Tim Gleason over 4 Jack Johnsons any time….
by Mateos_Canes_Lamp on Dec 3, 2009 3:08 PM EST up reply actions
I concur....
….but I don’t believe for a moment JR thought past " This guy is never going to sign here " when making that deal. Fortunately for the Canes LA shat the bed and let go of a guy who is playing way beyond his talent level and looks like he always will for a guy who looks like he is never going to live up to his potential. JR won that trade completely in spite of himself.
it always burns within
the downward spiral never ends
when driven into sin
your salvation's found in a sinner's deed
by Douchebag St John on Dec 3, 2009 3:29 PM EST up reply actions
IMO JR is on the phone right now trying to ‘blow the team up’. It’s hard when no other team wants to pick up the pieces.
A TRUE CANIAC......YES I AM........
by canescup on Dec 3, 2009 8:19 AM EST via mobile reply actions
Once you get past the misery, it’s certainly evident that this is an important milestone of a season for the Carolina Hurricanes. As Tripp would say: “watershed”. Pay careful attention because a few years from now this will be the season we refer to as the “beginning”. JR is laying the foundation for the new Canes, (transition is his word; re-building is another you hear).
Fascinating to watch and learn for those Caniacs who are in it for the duration. I think that covers pretty much everyone here. So, in my book, that makes it a great time to be a hockey fan in Carolina.
Hurricanes Hockey:
Never for the faint of heart.
Nor for the weak of stomach.
by Carolyn Christians on Dec 3, 2009 8:24 AM EST reply actions
You need to change your signature..
I like the Canes, rustic dentistry, the occaisional car wreck and arthritis….
I left out any bodily functions, unnatural sex acts and political inferences for the faint of heart..
A
The Canes are like a box of expired chocolates......
I shudder
to think about what you’d consider “unnatural sex acts”.
Even my imagination can only go so far.
When all else fails, read the instruction manual.
If he’s native to the south it may have something to do with farm animals. No offense to any native NC folk of course.
Whoa, nice dig! Offend the whole south!! I’m actually a Yankee, though. Anything on “those” types?
Hey, LCD, I was gonna comment on making you shudder, but that would invoke the ban hammer, too. PC just sucks.
A
The Canes are like a box of expired chocolates......
I'm a Californian
Dad’s from some hicksville, his words, in Kentucky and mom’s from Newark, NJ.
Explains a lot doesn’t it?
When all else fails, read the instruction manual.
Look up the term
" Bag Piping " on Urban Dictionary.
it always burns within
the downward spiral never ends
when driven into sin
your salvation's found in a sinner's deed
by Douchebag St John on Dec 3, 2009 1:08 PM EST up reply actions
the Plekanec for Bowman and Boychuck one was almost as laughable as the Staal for Cogliano and Grebeshkov. I also liked Staal to the kings, with no indication of what could be coming back. I guess just future considerations. The guy is the worst fraud ever, yet still pulls in the suckers!
Even funnier was that he linked E. Staal to the kings solely for the fact that they have shown interest in obtaining J. Staal.
Teams that are forced to rebuild have nothing in the minors, they basically trade away all their assests to make a couple runs at the cup. JR, for the most part wanted nothing to do with that because it would greatly hinder growth of the fanbase. I think there is a good chance that they become competitive again next year. As bad as this seems, I think it is steering the organization in a path that will have them in the playoffs on a consistent basis.
There is an old saying about discovering more about yourself during tough times than in good. The same can be said of being a sport fan, more pointedly a Canes fan this season. You will learn more about why you love hockey when your team sucks than when it’s winning. Let me clarify that point, when your team is winning it is easy to be interested in them; when they are finding new ways to loose, you as a fan must find new reasons to love your team and the game.
As a relative new comer to hockey fandom, I had only been watching hockey seriously for a few years, in 2002-2003 I learned more about the game of hockey than in any year since, with the exception of the Cup year. That season I learned to love and appreciate the game of hockey, not just the Canes.
“That which does not kill us only serves to make us stronger.” The core of this team is getting stronger by the day, those that remain after this season will build upon what they have learned this year, and hopefully, apply it to a successful season next year. Does anyone out there truly believe that we are that far away from being a playoff team?
While last year we had many players achieve career years, this year we are seeing many players have forgettable years.
It wasn’t to long ago that Tampa Bay wanted to run their superstar out of town after an injury plagued, under performing year.
"He has all the virtues I dislike, and none of the vices I admire." -Sir Winston Churchill
by SouthernHockeyFan on Dec 3, 2009 8:57 AM EST reply actions 1 recs
What are you saying Bob? The ride’s gonna get BUMPIER?
checks seatbelt for tightness
I like how HM2 put it. Although, it may be a great time for a Canes fan to witness what could be the development of a stellar team down the road, it’s not a very enjoyable time for a Canes fan right now.
I’m pretty much past being upset or angry about this season. Even if we won’t be in the playoffs, I still enjoy watching the hockey. So hopefully JR will make moves that help the team gain some confidence, play more entertaining hockey.
And not just for us fans, I want the players to be able to enjoy their JOB as well. I sure hate my job right now, it’s a struggle to make myself go most mornings. (And my office is only one room away from the bedroom.) I can’t imagine if I wasn’t enjoying my job and had to do it in front of other people, critiquing my performance, questioning my worth.
Maybe JR’s first phone call should be for a team shrink.
It’s funny how the times that are hardest for fans are also the ones when our support is needed the most. I know I’m preaching to the choir here, but I can’t stress enough how important it is that we still go to games and stay involved with the team. Things aren’t fun for the guys now, but having unconditional support from their fans has to help a little.
I consider myself a fairly positive girl, but I will be the first to admit that this season has beaten a lot of that out of me (I believe I used the words disgusted and humilated at one point-not one of my finer moments). But from now on, I am making a serious effort to celebrate the good things and allow the bad things to take a back seat. Good shifts, good games, games without injuries and Wallin’s 500th game as a Hurricane are all things to be enjoyed regardless of what the final score is. A win should be enjoyed and celebrated (maybe a bit longer than it would be otherwise) and a loss should be let go as soon as possible.
If nothing else this season will remind me why I became a fan of this team in the first place. It wasn’t for the wins or the Cup. It was because of the guys on the team and their stories and personalities. We have an amazing group of guys over at Edwards Mill; one that I would never trade for a winning season.
I've been going religiously to every game even though they suck
years of conditioning going to Charger football games in the 80s I guess.
When all else fails, read the instruction manual.
I don’t think any team I’ve ever really supported has ever had a championship season (when the Canes won in ‘06 I had just moved here and didn’t know what icing was). Maybe I’m a curse.
No,
If there’s a curse then there’s hockey gods.
No curse, just all mental on the Canes I’m afraid.
When all else fails, read the instruction manual.
Dang it. I knew I was setting myself up for something like that, but was hoping you’d pass on it. I should have known better.
Hey, if I left myself open.....
would you have let that slide?
Do you want, at least between us, to keep it on the “up and up”?
I can do that, I just need to know the other person won’t be looking for an opening to drive a Mack through.
When all else fails, read the instruction manual.
It probably has to do with the fact that Stanley Cups are not easy to win and the Canes are in a down time right now. The ship will right itself eventually, with or without you. But the Canes would prefer that you stick with them.
by hockeythoughts on Dec 3, 2009 10:13 AM EST up reply actions
The New NHL and the New Hurricanes
HM2 is 100% dead-on with her comments and observations. There is a new NHL quickly emerging — Pittsburgh, Chicago, San Jose, and Washington are examples, I think. It’s a great time to be a Hurricanes fan.
I am excited about next season much more than I am disappointed about the swan dive the present team has taken. In my mind, I see Taylor Hall, Tyler Seguin, or Kirill Kabonov dressed in a Hurricanes sweater and pounding pucks into the back of the net. Next year’s team as I imagine it, has the additional speed and quickness of Boychuk as well. Bowman is adding crazy goals. I even see Babchuk scattering pigeons in front of the net with his rocket slap shot.
Rodney and McBain are joining the rush and scoring on power plays. I envision Staal having the renewed energy of a captain given the team to lead. Ruutu, Jokinen, and Pitkanen are laughing and celebrating goals and hits. Gleason and Alberts are there with intense physical play, keeping the thugs away from the Caniac Kids.
On the third line, there is a wild-eyed jumbo fast, agile and hostile power forward throwing his weight around in front of the net and pounding rebounds into the net and doing the victory dance with the unrestrained exuberance of youth.
Next season as I sit with my family in section 105 watching the Hurricanes team that is; I will think back to this season and feel the faint tug of a painful memory. It is a necessary step in the transition from the 2005-2006 Stanley Cup Hurricanes to the new Hurricanes ready to do whatever it takes to bring another Stanley Cup to Carolina. I will also know the character the team showed in an awful year will help them grow into the team they need to be in order to be Stanley Cup Champions.
You said it
This is going to be the season that we all sit back and wonder and then when we are sitting in the RBC Center on a June night watching the “boys” we love skate around with a big silver chalise, we will be thankful we survived. I can totally relate to what is going on with this team, I am also suffering a drought of confidence and job production. The character that I am showing is also what is being shown by the team that is playing. There are moments when I don’t feel like going to my part time job or sending another resume into the black hole of job searching, but I do it. I am sure there are nights when the team doesn’t feel like they will ever score another goal or win another game. We won’t even bring up the goose egg in the away game column. I am looking forward to the young’uns coming up and to Staal wearing that “C”. And just the thought of the Three Finns celebrating goals… makes my heart flutter. If we fans can survive this drought and stand behind the team like my family is helping me survive my unemployment, then more power to the Caniacs!!! Let’s Go Canes!! Do not give up.
Welcome to CC NCCaniac42. Sisu!
Hurricanes Hockey:
Never for the faint of heart.
Nor for the weak of stomach.
by Carolyn Christians on Dec 3, 2009 10:05 AM EST up reply actions
good post
Im not sure I want Mo coaching that offensively gifted group and choking it out of them.
This season would be really tough if I didn't drink the misery away.
Maurice
Maurice certainly has his flaws; but he is not a stupid man by any means. Maurice surely understands that if he flops again in Carolina, it is highly, highly unlikely he will coach again at the NHL level. On the other hand, if he succeeds in building the Hurricanes into a consistent contender for the NHL, he will have a home as long as he wants here in Raleigh.
My take is that Maurice needs to grow as a coach and needs to learn how to instill confidence and creativity in the team even as he strives for disciplined positioning and defensive responsibility in all zones. He’ll either improve or he will be coaching hockey at a small university (and wishing he had).
The good thing for Maurice right now is that he has until the end of January to make a good solid effort at turning around this ship. If he can get this group to go 500 for the rest of the year starting after Cam’s return that will be a solid effort as a coach. Especially if we have anymore long term injuries.
But seeing as strategically, for next year, we really don’t want to win too many games, if I were JR and PK, I would be telling him to really focus offense and scoring, and let cam keep us in what games he can. That way by next year he can be a better offensive coach when coaching what will hopefully be a better team.
Mystery Player
I have a list of over thirty potential jumbo power forwards and am happy to post it — although I thought given some of the reactions to some posts of mine that posting a list that long might not be that well-received.
Here are a few if the power forwards on my list:
1. Bryan Bickell — Chicago
Left Wing – CHI
Number: 29
Height: 6’ 4"
Weight: 223
Shoots: Left
Born: Mar 9, 1986 (Age 23)
Birthplace: Bowmanville, ON, Canada
Drafted: CHI / 2004 NHL Entry Draft
Round: 2nd (41st overall)
2. Frazer McLaren #68 – LW San Jose
Frazer McLaren
San Jose
DOB: Oct 29, 1987
Age: 21
Place of Birth: Winnipeg, Man., Canada
HT: 6-5 WT: 230
Shoots: L
NHL Seasons: 0
Drafted by San Jose in 2007 (7/203).
3. Kyle Greentree — Chicago
Chicago Blackhawks #47 – Left Wing
Born: 1983/11/15 Age: 25
Height: 6-3 Weight: 212
Place of birth: Victoria, B.C., Canada
Seasons: 2
4. Bobby Bolt Anaheim Ducks
LW
Bobby Bolt— Anaheim Ducks
Age: 22
Date of birth: April 29, 1987
Place of birth: Thunder Bay, Ont., Canada
Ht: 6-4 Wt: 228
Shoots: L
Salary: $ 500,000
NHL Seasons: 0-R
Drafted by Anaheim in 2005 (5/127).
I think that missing player is one of two critical pieces to the Hurricanes puzzle and to creating a top six team.
A Dog: Could Tommy K grow into this role? Why or why not?
Hurricanes Hockey:
Never for the faint of heart.
Nor for the weak of stomach.
by Carolyn Christians on Dec 3, 2009 10:06 AM EST up reply actions
IMO, the thing that may hold him back is that he’s older (30) and has already been pegged as a certain kind of player. He may not get the same opportunity to develop his game as a younger guy would. In fact, he may have already developed his game as much as it will ever develop.
Tommy K
I think Caniacgirl is right. In addition, there is a major difference between the type of physical force even a physically strong player like Tommy K. or Ruutu can deliver at 6’ 200 lbs and the new jumbo forwards at 6’4" 230 lbs.
By way of reference to other sports (always problematic but I can’t resist), when I played football, I loved hitting the 6’ 190 lb running backs; but my nightmares were hitting the 6’4" 235 lb fullbacks and tight ends. It felt like being run over by a Greyhound bus. Similarly, in basketball, the 6’ 7" power forwards were impossible to guard — they were just too strong and powerful.
I view the Hurricanes’ dilemma is that they are physically mismatched with some teams. The Hurricanes players don’t lack the courage to try to battle inside; but they lack sufficient bulk to knock down the better power forwards. Ruutu, Tommy K. and Cole are playing their best physical game; but they need some help in my opinion (ill-informed and unreliable as it is).
Give yourself some credit A.Dog! Your posts are always some of the best thought out and logical on here. You do your research. I trust your opinion.
My locker room speech
I have a locker room speech all ready for these guys. Talking about their ylpeys (pride) and to play with SISU (tenacity). I talk about how even if we are losing, that the opposing team should have a bunch of bruises because you are going to refuse to lay down and let them beat us, that we will fight to the end. NOT to take any shift off but to keep playing. To stop slumping the shoulders when a goal is scored against but to MOVE ON and make the next shift harder and to hit harder on every hit. I use the example of giving my best interview and still losing the job to someone who could speak Mandarin. I didn’t get mad or angry, I just held my head high and went on working harder. I tell them to go out there and show the Caniac Nation that their support will not be in vain. To show the NHL that though we are LAST we will go down SWINGING. If they play with this attitude, maybe we will start winning. That is my speech to the team.
More cowbell
It’s nice to know that in hockey, all things are equal.
Look at Toronto. They continue to overbook their ticket sales this year again, and yet they’re at the bottom of the barrel, right next to us. Misery loves company – and I’m clingy as hell.
I’ve got a feeever!
rides are always bumpy
i played a LOT of competitive soccer from playing on select soccer teams from 12 years to 18 years of age travelling all over the east and south coast and playing college soccer for a national champion soccer team and i started. so i do know the ups and downs that can come very easily with a team that others who maybe haven’t played on competitive teams would know. and this is going to be a tough season of wins and losses and overtimes and shoot outs that the fans just need to deal with. i think fans do expect especially because of the ACC being down here and having duke, wake forest, ncsu, and unc always doing pretty well that all other teams here are always going to do pretty well too and never have downpoints. but all teams do. and a lot will be learned from going through this. it’s a learning lesson for this team which is great. people need to stop being so incredibly negative and the idea of “blowing up” the team is childish and stupid. the players (at least most of them) on the team are still good and the team can play well, but there have been an unusual amount of serious injuries and when writers like chip anderson (who drives me up a wall) are so all or nothing, it’s frustrating. season 2 for this team is going to go much better and season 3 will be a champion season. fans just have to be patient and understand that the sun doesn’t always shine all the time for any team and we will pull ourselves out of this ditch we are halfway in and be supportive no matter what. and we’re only in december. we do have time to at least get in the middle of the mix. we might not make the playoffs but we will have learned a lot to be in that mix next season for sure. patience is a virtue. maybe chip alexander can learn that.
I, like Rutherford, am not interested in being in the middle of the mix later this year. I’ve grown comfortable with being dead last. Just means I’ll start researching the top prospects a little earlier this year than normal. I know, I’m a bad Hurricanes fan. Bad team=Bad Fan.
by hockeythoughts on Dec 3, 2009 10:47 AM EST up reply actions
I’m with you on this one. To finish 9th-12th would be worse for me than finishing 25th-30th. At least if you finish lower, you get a better draft pick.
How does that work in realtiy though?
That’s true – but how do you be sure to accomplish that. Does JR have the following tete-a-tete’s when no one is listening?
Timmy – maybe you can make sure you hold up on your pursuit of Kessel next time the Leafs are in town. Make it look like you lost an edge. Same goes for Malkin, Ovechkin, and against any and all bubble teams. And next time, stay away from Hedman. Sheez!
Ruu – take another run into somebody like ya did to Tucker, and get yourself a 5-game suspension this time, Got it? I don’t want you on the ice because I don’t trust you to throw the game no matter if that will put us in 9th place. I can’t take the chance with you and your Finnish Sisu.
Cam – can you just take your eye off the puck completely if we’ve still got a lead going into the last 5 minutes? Watch the fans go crazy instead. It’s an amazing sight.
Eric – just whiff every time you get a feed for a one timer on the PP. Just think “It’s all about next year.” And keep in mind, then you’ll be the first to lift the Cup. Understand me, boy?
Mo – from now on, if we’re down by a goal, be sure to put Brind`Amour and AWard out, and then pull the goalie. Whatever happens, you don’t want to see me tomorrow if you win this game. You hear me?
OMG. Wait – I’m beginning to understand this 5 game losing streak. The previous 5 games with all those points must have really had Rutherford scared.
Hurricanes Hockey:
Never for the faint of heart.
Nor for the weak of stomach.
by Carolyn Christians on Dec 3, 2009 11:05 AM EST up reply actions
When I have a chance in a moment I will respond.
by hockeythoughts on Dec 3, 2009 11:11 AM EST up reply actions
I rate my sport’s seasons in part in how cringe-inducing they are. This hockey season has been nothing but cringe-inducing, maybe the most cringe-inducing season I’ve had as a Hurricanes fan. Will my season be less cringe-inducing than it already is watching the team climb the standings only to fall short of the playoffs and miss out on a top pick in the draft? No! Maybe even more! I don’t want the team to tank, and with my sarcasm I didn’t mean to suggest that we try to lose. My point is that I’ve reconciled myself to the fact that this is, at the moment, a bad Hurricanes team, but I also know that I can look to the future. Better to look to the future knowing we get a top 5 choice than a middling pick that may not work out.
by hockeythoughts on Dec 3, 2009 11:24 AM EST up reply actions
9th or 12th? Yea right, the top 16 go to the PO’s…not gonna happen this year. 6 points behind the Leafs right now. rest assured, no matter what kind of tear they go on, it ain’t get them out of the 20’s. Anything above 25th would surprise the heck outta me. Rest assured last or very near is right where they will stay.
A
The Canes are like a box of expired chocolates......
Oh, I still think that’s giving them more credit than do, but makes more sense.
A
The Canes are like a box of expired chocolates......
As funny as that was (and it was funny), that wasn’t at all what I was suggesting. Nor is it what JR is suggesting.
I don’t want him to make hasty changes in an effort to salvage something that no longer exists. That doesn’t mean tanking the season on purpose-I still want to win games (I don’t think anyone would turn down a Cup championship if that miracle were to happen). It means not giving up more than you’re getting back (like that Staal for whoever trade-hyperbole, but the idea is the same). It means stepping back and assessing what you have and what you need and most importantly taking the time to carefully craft a long-term winner. Not hastily throwing some people into the mix out of panic because it looks like we’ll finish last.
Not intending to pick on any of these - I do agree in concept
It’s just the very odd predicament of failure now bringing long term success (vocab word of the day: oxymoron). We all know it. JR said it a couple times this week.
How do you make that work between now and the end of the season?
Mostly I was imagining, with some humor – I hope! – the behind-the-scenes details for our most competitive players being told that now is not the time to be great. It’s just unfamiliar territory for them and for me.
Interesting topic apparently for the way the posts suddenly started going crazy.
Hurricanes Hockey:
Never for the faint of heart.
Nor for the weak of stomach.
by Carolyn Christians on Dec 3, 2009 11:21 AM EST up reply actions
I figured that you were being sarcastic/funny, but at first glance it may have come across a little differently.
I don’t think you have to do anything to make it happen that way. This team is on a direct course for that right now and nothing short of a miracle will turn that around (small changes aren’t going to cut it). I’m not sure JR has the ability to work miracles of that nature so instead IMO he should focus on building the team for the future, not trying to fix the present.
The guys are going to go out there every night and try to win games. And we need them to win games just for sanity’s sake (theirs and ours). You won’t have to tell our best players not to be great because they can’t go from dead last to playoffs alone; the team’s collective crud factor is too strong.
I don’t know – remember Game 7 in Boston and NJD – these guys like to push it to the max when everyone else counts them out. (again – that was last year and everyone was a year younger)
I think you and ADog are both right – it’ll take care of itself.
But didn’t you like the idea of Ruutu not being trusted to back off? ;D (that was for LTD and NCCaniac42)
Hurricanes Hockey:
Never for the faint of heart.
Nor for the weak of stomach.
by Carolyn Christians on Dec 3, 2009 11:31 AM EST up reply actions
And they had already gone on an amazing run at the end of the season-it was a perfect storm (pardon the pun).
I was partial to Cam watching the crowd flip out and Tim losing his edge to avoid Kessel. It was good stuff HM. And Ruutu’s head would explode if someone told him to give 75% let alone 50%. Same goes with Timmy. That just wouldn’t track with them.
I think Cullen would be a lost cause for a losing effort, too. Maybe he needs a get into a mid-ice collision with Sutter, putting them both out with concussion-like symptoms. That’s when they move one of them to wing to the other ….might as well experiment.
Hurricanes Hockey:
Never for the faint of heart.
Nor for the weak of stomach.
by Carolyn Christians on Dec 3, 2009 11:42 AM EST up reply actions
And Sutter’s such a bruiser he might just be able to do it. ;) Maybe they can orchestrate a few more mid-ice collisions with him as the proverbial brick wall.
Or maybe we can just play the Rangers and Islanders in some unofficial scrimmages for the same results?
Hurricanes Hockey:
Never for the faint of heart.
Nor for the weak of stomach.
by Carolyn Christians on Dec 3, 2009 11:56 AM EST up reply actions
But didn’t you like the idea of Ruutu not being trusted to back off? ;D (that was for LTD and NCCaniac42)
Oh, I noticed.
SISU
by Jamie Kellner on Dec 3, 2009 7:48 PM EST up reply actions
This response is truly not intended to be offensive; an I apologize if it is. I think given the weaknesses of various players now on the team, all the Hurricanes have to do to continue to struggle is continue to give top minutes to Aaron Ward and to put Brind’Amour on the ice against top six lines. Brind’Amour needed only 4:13 minutes of even strength ice time to be a part of two goals. Others disagree, I realize, but the timing of when Wallin plays and against whom will have a major influence on the goals that are scored. For example, if one puts Wallin and Ward on penalty kills, it is pretty ugly.
I don’t think management is going to tell anybody on the team to mail in an effort; but there is also no reason for Rutherford to take steps that would undermine the make up of the new Hurricanes team next year. It’s great if Rutherford can make moves that help the team this year, but are also consistent with the needs of the team next season and beyond. Otherwise, leave things pretty much as they are other than making space for Boychuk, Bowman, Rodney, McBain, and Carson to get experience this year (and I am aware Droschak disagrees and thinks only Rodney is ready).
Additionally, as deep as the hole is now, it seems unlikely that even if a trade occurs, that the new addition will be sufficient to raise the Hurricanes above a 25th position finish.
Exactly. This is how we ended up last in ‘02-’03, including losing the last eleven games: we played the players we had. LOL!
Plus, we augmented heavily from the minors, giving everyone a shot at their first NHL goal. Of course, the minor talent was not quite as sterling then as what we have now, so your results may vary.
Lottery pick for sure
No need to worry about losing out on at least a top three prospect. Even if we DID play 0.500 hockey the rest of the way out, that only adds 55 more points (55 games remaining) to our measily 15 points, for a total of 70 points.
For the past few seasons, the bottom team has ranged from mid 50’s to low 70’s in points. We’re bound to be picking high, regardless.
I know, I’m a bad Hurricanes fan. Bad team=Bad Fan.
No, you’re a long-term hurricanes fan.
by Andrea's evil twin on Dec 3, 2009 7:12 PM EST up reply actions
I totally agree. The Hurricanes with a top five pick become one of the best six teams merely by bringing up Boychuk, Bowman, McBain, Rodney, and Carson. They don’t have to blow up the team by obtaining a fresh wave of new players; but they need a budding superstar to go with all the talent that is available on the team and in Albany. They can’t buy that new superstar on the open market; and instead have to draft the superstar. Chicago and Pittsburgh drafted their way into being incredibly talented, young teams.
This is not what I want to see: latest depth chart
oh – except we’re going for 30th. Never mind. That’ll work.
Poor Brandon.
Hurricanes Hockey:
Never for the faint of heart.
Nor for the weak of stomach.
by Carolyn Christians on Dec 3, 2009 11:10 AM EST reply actions
Jussi on the fourth line? could that be a wake up call?
Although, he is one of the team’s leading scorers. Interesting.
GM of CanesCountry.com
He’s out (injured/recovering?) today still – and the tweet described it as “incomplete”. Still I think he and Sutter could be magic. Hoping Rod and Jussi will get flip-flopped.
Hurricanes Hockey:
Never for the faint of heart.
Nor for the weak of stomach.
by Carolyn Christians on Dec 3, 2009 11:14 AM EST up reply actions
Jussi on the Fourth Line
Jussi on the fourth line makes zero sense unless he is really banged up and they need him to take far fewer minutes. My first reaction is “you have to be kidding me.”
Jokinen and the Fourth Line
I asked for an explanation and was told that Jokinen did not practice this week, so the form does not permit a “to be determined” spot. Accordingly, because Jokinen was not at practice, it made sense to put him on the fourth line.
This year has been insane enough that I couldn’t comprehend a healthy Jokinen being demoted to the forth line. I think at least as far as that issue is concerned, all is well in Hurricanes Land.
Okay – good to hear. Can I ask who you asked?
Hurricanes Hockey:
Never for the faint of heart.
Nor for the weak of stomach.
by Carolyn Christians on Dec 3, 2009 8:48 PM EST up reply actions
Did anyone get to the D-pairings?
Timmy, meet Nikki (not PIts?) Wow!
And Rodney is packing his bag in Albany for the looks of it.
Hurricanes Hockey:
Never for the faint of heart.
Nor for the weak of stomach.
by Carolyn Christians on Dec 3, 2009 11:28 AM EST up reply actions
Oh dear. I like the big Swede and all, but that’s a lot of minutes for him. And it’s not like Pits and A.Ward are working so brillantly together anyway. Maybe it’s because both Pits and Gleason are left d-men? I don’t know how hard it is for them to switch sides.
I actually wonder if Rodney could move up with Gleason? and then leave the Euro-pairing of Wallin and Pits (that wasn’t too bad, IMHO, but I don’t hate Nikki) and minimal minutes for AWard
Is Rodney anywhere close to Corvo for skill and smarts ? No. But he’s a similar player and perhaps Gleason would be a good pair. Like Boychuk and Cole, way back when.
Hurricanes Hockey:
Never for the faint of heart.
Nor for the weak of stomach.
by Carolyn Christians on Dec 3, 2009 11:35 AM EST up reply actions
He may be able to. Rodney also brings some offensive instincts to that line that Wallin doesn’t. Plus Gleason would be more able to cover for him if he pinches at a bad time than would Albe. The way Mo messes with lines, it’s very likely Gleason will be out there with everyone at one point or another. I hope he takes an extra vitamin for the next few days and maybe drinks an extra large protein shake. I feel a career high in TOI could be coming on Saturday.
Speaking of changing the lines and ruining chemistry
Will Mo ever stop, just for a little while and allow the lines to start syncing up?
When all else fails, read the instruction manual.
when you lose a minute muncher like Corvo, the defense could be in shambles for awhile.
GM of CanesCountry.com
the defense could be in shambles for awhile
For like 3 months, I’d say. Maybe Leighton would like to try skating out? Goalie’s do have a good sense of proper defensive positioning from their unique vantage point.
Hurricanes Hockey:
Never for the faint of heart.
Nor for the weak of stomach.
by Carolyn Christians on Dec 3, 2009 11:55 AM EST up reply actions
Sammy should be on the 3rd line… Rod should be on the 4th line… Juicy should be on the second line…
And they should flip-flop Brandon and Staal…. (or they could Healthy Scratch Staal and that would be ok by me also)
by Mateos_Canes_Lamp on Dec 3, 2009 11:59 AM EST up reply actions
Healthy scratch the best player on the team, what are you smoking.
A TRUE CANIAC......YES I AM........
I never said a word about healthy scratching Whitney or Sutter or Cullen…. I was talking about Staal…. He hasn’t done anything!
by Mateos_Canes_Lamp on Dec 3, 2009 1:18 PM EST up reply actions
or Jussi or Ruu with 16 points each
Not that I think Staal should be a healthy scratch (IMHO, that’s divisive to say the least and exactly what Harwood talks about above when fans are caught in a season like thisone) – but I admit that I feel uncomfortable when #12 is on the ice this season. Can’t put my finger on it. Like he’s really really not having fun (isn’t that what he said after Buffalo) – like an empty vessel; impending doom permeates. It’s stressful.
Hurricanes Hockey:
Never for the faint of heart.
Nor for the weak of stomach.
by Carolyn Christians on Dec 3, 2009 1:24 PM EST up reply actions
It worked for LaRose (who also needs to take a scratch) last season….
Staal is riding the wave of being this franchises “star player.” But he is not producing… and I think he needs to know that you have to “earn your jersey” (as Nick Wallin put it).
by Mateos_Canes_Lamp on Dec 3, 2009 3:10 PM EST up reply actions
Ok for what it’s worth, the Canes (on facebook at least) are calling the above depth chart “incomplete lines”. I don’t know what that means (obviously it’s not that there are holes).
Same word choice in the tweet. Just wondering why they bothered to call it out if it’s a work in progress.
Maybe they were looking for fan feedback…;) Where’s the linesmith-extraordinaire Adog to sort them out?
Hurricanes Hockey:
Never for the faint of heart.
Nor for the weak of stomach.
by Carolyn Christians on Dec 3, 2009 11:53 AM EST up reply actions
Speaking of depth chart problems
This Tweet from practice made me laugh:
lgc_com
Back to meaningful things. Cam looks good out here. movement and all around. The 3 goalie thing looks odd tho.
2 minutes ago from mobile web
Y’think?
Hurricanes Hockey:
Never for the faint of heart.
Nor for the weak of stomach.
by Carolyn Christians on Dec 3, 2009 11:57 AM EST up reply actions
I think we should have “Canes Country Points” wagers for everyone to guess how this goaltender situation works out… (before next Wednesday)
by Mateos_Canes_Lamp on Dec 3, 2009 12:01 PM EST up reply actions
good idea
Maybe if we guess right, we can have our official Caniac cards back and I can get rid of the counterfeit one I made.
This season would be really tough if I didn't drink the misery away.
I wanted to wait one more game before we run a poll. Look for one coming up soon.
GM of CanesCountry.com
I’m thinking Manny Saturday vs the Western Conf ‘nucks and then Monday, vs Pittsburgh (man I’m dreading that game!) – that should be interesting if Leighton gets one more chance…
I still think Michael needs to get some standard-blade skates and learn to play D with Alberts. Then AWard can retire to Albany as Daniels’ D-coordinator.
Hurricanes Hockey:
Never for the faint of heart.
Nor for the weak of stomach.
by Carolyn Christians on Dec 3, 2009 1:31 PM EST up reply actions
I wonder who is rotating through and who’s staying put, if they all aren’t rotating. It may give us an idea who they are leaning towards keeping.
And I like this one:
Parker Staal and his mom are watching 12 in PP practice. Maybe he’s helping them pass the pack (means puck) faster!
Saw that – and LTD’s out of town. That would have been a nice twitpic. (unless they’re keeping Parker out of the camera view – wait, it’s not like we’re in Toronto.)
Hurricanes Hockey:
Never for the faint of heart.
Nor for the weak of stomach.
by Carolyn Christians on Dec 3, 2009 12:15 PM EST up reply actions
nope, I saw mom & Parker at the game the other week, so they’re not hiding him.
by Andrea's evil twin on Dec 3, 2009 7:18 PM EST up reply actions
I was more upset to miss seeing Cam today.
I’m certain mama and baby will make more appearances.
SISU
by Jamie Kellner on Dec 3, 2009 7:52 PM EST up reply actions
Lines
Given everything that has gone wrong this year, I’d put these lines out on Saturday:
Line 1:
Whitney Sutter Staal
Line 2:
Ruutu/Cullen/Cole
Line 3:
Samsonov/Jokinen/Kostopoulos
Line 4:
Brind’Amour/Yelle/Walker
I would not want to split up the Jokinen/Cullen/Ruutu line but I would want to see Sutter on the first line and that means Jokinen has to center the third line.
I am not digging that first line. I could see that line perpetually hemmed into the neutral zone. You imagine a top pairing and a big bruising checking line would have theri way with that line. I would prefer a body banger in there.
Great point and it worries me as well. The problem is that the Hurricanes have two power forwards, Ruutu and Cole. So at all times, there is a line that is without a true power forward. I also like very much the lines as suggested by HM2 as shown below. Whitney and Cullen ought to work well together.
Line 1:
Sutter Staal Cole
Line 2:
Whitney/Cullen/Ruutu
Line 3:
Samsonov/Jokinen/Kostopoulos
Line 4:
Brind’Amour/Yelle/Walker
Might you switch Cole and Whitney? Seems like they first line needs someone who can hold his own in the crease. Just asking? maybe the L and R don’t work.
That first line, with Ruu and Gleason would be my first PP line.
Hurricanes Hockey:
Never for the faint of heart.
Nor for the weak of stomach.
by Carolyn Christians on Dec 3, 2009 12:13 PM EST up reply actions
yeah… JR’s role is crucial now, again the team is in his hands. Hope he will do it right this time, it least he seems to know what is needed based on his words… well, it is not only chance for MO but for JR as well, if he will succesfully rebuild the team for next year – it will be HUGE. Time will show :)
All above is my personal opinion.
Thanks,
Andy_S
posed to all
Reading Spector ( or the anti Eklund as I like to cal him) He seems to think Sopel is the odd man out with the chicago trio signing. What is the thought on Sopel for Cullen? They need the 3rd line center with Bolland down and Sopel could eat some of those minutes.
You Have Staal Center the first line, Sutter on the Second, Jokinene on the third, Yelle on the fourth, and call up a one of our rats to fill the vacant winger spot.
question for all
with all this talk of shaking this up, trades, who should get the “C” etc. ive found that no one has said anything about ruutu. I hope that he doesnt get traded cause hes been one of the bright spots this season, playing with passion, talking to media when “other people” dont want to, he almost started to get emotional during the losing streak, at nothing else i think he should be nominated for the “A”.thoughts anyone?
yep – Ruu’s name for the A has come up more than once as a great idea. I think previous suggestions along the lines of
Gleason C and Ruu and Sutter for the A’s
were roundly cheered here. But that leaves Staal out in the cold….Hmmm.
Hurricanes Hockey:
Never for the faint of heart.
Nor for the weak of stomach.
by Carolyn Christians on Dec 3, 2009 12:10 PM EST up reply actions
my 2 cents
in my opinion a captain needs to be able to handle all adversity, hold himself to a higher standard then the rest of the team and play on a higher level then the rest of the team. Thats the knock on Brindy at this point in his career and im honestly not seeing those traits in Staal and until i see that he shouldnt lead this team. Remeber highest salary doesnt entitle you to anything
by brassBonanza on Dec 3, 2009 12:17 PM EST up reply actions
again, the hate on you folks have for Staal is amazing. Why y’all would want to marginalize and demoralize our most talented player is beyond me. I know everyone think he is capable of more, but I don’t think you get more out of him by throwing him under the bus. You look at Vinny in Tampa. No one can deny his skill set, yet Tochett is well on his way to ruining him as a player by doing the very things that are being suggested here to Staal. You don’t ruin your best assett. You either trade it while it is worth something or you utitlize to the best of your ability.
Maybe Mo and JR need to figure out how best to develop the teams biggest asset. I used to hear about Francis being his mentor and understanding how to handle the expectations. Maybe it was the groin pull in Oly camp that made him so invisible so far this season.
My Hmmm maybe have sounded like I was chastising Eric. I meant it more like, this (whether Eric has earned the C yet) is a tough one to solve. Really is. And I think an important piece to solving the puzzle. But that’s the topic of the fanpost last night where Staal’s biggest supporters were invited to make their case. Again – it’s an interesting fork in the road.
Hurricanes Hockey:
Never for the faint of heart.
Nor for the weak of stomach.
by Carolyn Christians on Dec 3, 2009 12:31 PM EST up reply actions
I’m confused. I thought you were Tim Gleason’s official campaign manager for the captaincy.
Carolina Hurricanes...2011 Stanley Cup Champions
I believe that would be Jenniwa. I’m a BIG supporter though.
I think the lack of leadership among the players, with Brind’Amour faltering and Staal seeming to be lost, may be a part of the problem with the Canes this season. This will be an interesting plot line for the team in the next 6 to 12 months. I will be stunned if Eric isn’t named Captain.
Hurricanes Hockey:
Never for the faint of heart.
Nor for the weak of stomach.
by Carolyn Christians on Dec 3, 2009 3:09 PM EST up reply actions
My apologies.
You guys have me considering Tim, although I voted for Eric. Primarily because of how well he responded when Rod was hurt.
Eric does seem a little stunned this year. I get the feeling there are some locker-room dynamics that we as fans don’t even have a clue about.
Carolina Hurricanes...2011 Stanley Cup Champions
Doesn’t anyone remember the job Staal did as captain when Brind Amour was down with his injury? He carried this team on his back during that time. And almost all the way to the playoffs.
This would have been a much more powerful statement if it hadn’t been necessary to insert the word “almost”,
Hurricanes Hockey:
Never for the faint of heart.
Nor for the weak of stomach.
by Carolyn Christians on Dec 3, 2009 12:35 PM EST up reply actions
I thought it was a team sport, and I’m not interested in placing blame – (are we talking about the Florida game in spring 08?) – seems like Lavi brought some guys back from the IR the last few games that April and it really messed up the chemistry too.
Hurricanes Hockey:
Never for the faint of heart.
Nor for the weak of stomach.
by Carolyn Christians on Dec 3, 2009 1:02 PM EST up reply actions
Thursday already!
I can’t believe JR hasn’t done a major change this week (although I assume he’s trying). Everytime I get a tweet I think it might be big news.This waiting to see who goes where is nerve rackin.
A TRUE CANIAC......YES I AM........
WOW you are so smart, two and a half hours later the tweet comes. Lusty for Paradis.
A TRUE CANIAC......YES I AM........
good idea about fans picking the lines. They should hold a drawing where everyone submits what they think the lines should be, and choose a winner for a game. what have they got to lose?
GM of CanesCountry.com
Anyone hear Mo on NHL Live? Nothing earth shattering. He heaps praise on JR. Seems to know that his job is on the line. Humble as usual.
Hurricanes Hockey:
Never for the faint of heart.
Nor for the weak of stomach.
by Carolyn Christians on Dec 3, 2009 1:28 PM EST reply actions
Yeah
For the most part he didn’t say anything we haven’t heard from him over the last few weeks, just in slightly different words. Still, he has that magic ability to make everything sound like it’s just about to be OK, even when I know it can’t be that easy.
On the "bumpy ride" theme...
that Bob mentioned above, ran across this rather dry coverage of an interesting topic: Don’t Be Happy, Be Worried, in which the conclusion was that it took some negative experiences and fears among the fanbase in order to provide the matching positive experiences and cheers that come with later successes.
“You need the negative emotions of thinking your team might lose to get you in an excited, nervous state,” Knobloch-Westerwick said. “If your team wins, all that negative tension is suddenly converted to positive energy, which will put you in a euphoric state.”
If you didn’t care, it wouldn’t matter.
speaking of lines - this from the Canes after practice (TTS blog)
Of all the players who missed yesterday’s practice, only Jussi Jokinen remained sidelined.
However, Maurice said after practice that he was hoping to have Jokinen, along with Chad LaRose, back for Saturday’s game.
Scott Walker is also a good bet after practicing with the team all week.
So if Chad is back vs Vancouver, who sits? (sounds like a poll question to me)
Hurricanes Hockey:
Never for the faint of heart.
Nor for the weak of stomach.
by Carolyn Christians on Dec 3, 2009 2:19 PM EST reply actions
J staal
If we are going to trade away players while planning for the future i say we get Jordan Staal here. I guarantee that that would spark Eric while bringing in a a very good young player. Win-win if you ask me.
Jordan Staal
I am told that the Hurricanes have been trying for years to get Jordan Staal. I am positive the Hurricanes would pay dearly to obtainJordan Staal. Jordan Staal is perhaps the only player I can imagine the Hurricanes giving up a #1 lottery pick to obtain. Jordan Staal is exactly what the Hurricanes need. Centers of Staal, Staal, and Sutter would be among the youngest and best centers in the NHL — which is perhaps why the Penguins won’t make the trade.
“To be honest, I thought he was getting suspended when he hit Kaleta from behind last week … If you look at how he hits, it’s all or nothing. He takes 10 strides before he hits guys.”
-Brooks (of all people) Orpik (on Alex Ovechkin)
by Mateos_Canes_Lamp on Dec 3, 2009 3:35 PM EST reply actions
MAPLE LEAFS SEND TLUSTY TO HURRICANES FOR PARADIS
So we drafted a guy who was projected as a late second rounder at best in the first round only to trade him before he has ever played a game? WTF?
it always burns within
the downward spiral never ends
when driven into sin
your salvation's found in a sinner's deed
by Douchebag St John on Dec 3, 2009 3:40 PM EST reply actions
Jiri Tlusty
For what little it is matters, I don’t have a problem with this trade. I had done some research on Tlusty and had him on a master list of possible power forwards. He is smaller than I would have preferred in an ideal world; but he is reported to have excellent hands, great speed, and is a natural scorer. I thought it was a positive sign that he plays all three forward positions. That fact makes me wonders whether that is a sign as it relates to Chad LaRose and perhaps Matt Cullen. Tlusty adds size and speed.
Here’s some of the scouting report on Jiri Tlusty:
Jiri Tlusty
Carolina Hurricanes #11 – Left Wing
Born: 1988/03/16 Age: 21
Height: 6-0 Weight: 209
Place of birth: Slany, Czech. (now Czech Republic)
Seasons: 2
Drafted by: the Toronto Maple Leafs in 2006 (1st round)
Year Team GP G A P +/- PIM PPG SHG GWG GTG SOG
2009 Maple Leafs 2 0 0 0 -2 0 0 0 0 0 2
Jiri Tlusty
11 – LW/RW
Age: 21
Date of birth: March 16, 1988
Place of birth: Slany, Czech. (now Czech Republic)
Ht: 6-0 Wt: 209
Shoots: L
Salary: $ 765,000
NHL Seasons: 2
Drafted by Toronto in 2006 (1/13).
Tlusty Scouting Report
Sorry, left this part out:
Jiri Tlusty Scouting assessment:
http://www.sbnation.com/nhl/players/54287/Jiri_Tlusty
Scouting Report
Assets
* Is very creative with the puck, and has both playmaking and finishing skills. Can play all three forward positions.
Flaws
* Needs to work on his play without the puck, as well as in the defensive zone. Struggles in physical contests.
Career Potential
* Scoring winger.
More on Tlusty:
Jim Rutherford gave an interview on the Carolina Hurricanes website about Tlusty. I am copying part of it. It sounds to me that Jim Rutherford is starting the transition process now. Tlusty seems to be projected into a top six line-up for next year; and in combination with Boychuk, and Bowman, three present Hurricanes are not projected to be with the team next hear. If one assumes that the Hurricanes have a top five draft pick who will start, that is a fourth present Hurricane who is not scheduled by Jim Rutherford to return. I would guess that Tlusty will wind up being given a chance this year with either Staal or Sutter centering. I liked Paradis and would like to get him back at some point.
From http://hurricanes.nhl.com/club/news.htm?id=508517
They’re two different types of players," said Rutherford. "We need to score more goals and we need to have skill. In our opinion, Philippe is more along the lines of a power forward and Jiri is more skilled to where we project him being able to put up points in our top six.
"We’re going through a stretch now where we’re a low-scoring team," added Rutherford. "You can have all the bigger, physical guys that you want, but if you can’t score enough goals it’s not going to do you any good. In this case, I’m dealing with trying to put a player in our lineup by the start of next season that’s going to be able to help produce points."
A-dawg
Most everyone is on a new thread discussing this now, not sure if you might have missed it.
http://www.canescountry.com/2009/12/3/1184356/mckenzie-canes-deal-philippe#comments
GM of CanesCountry.com
sabotaging themselves on purpose...naaaah
it never occurred to me that they’re sabotaging themselves on purpose?? (maybe this is paranoia X 1000) to get that first round draft pick. that’s why staal is whiffing and the number of penalties and they’ll win a couple to keep the fans coming back a little and then lose again. like this could very possibly be their strategy since there is no way we’ll make the playoffs or even get to .500. so mo never looks too bothered in interviews now cause he gets the deal. win some and lose some (either cause they do get beat or on purpose?). who knows. i’d love to be a fly on the wall in that locker room (also to see my cully showering). ok. i’ll stop.
Comments For This Post Are Closed
Secondary Sidebar
User Tools
FanPosts
Community blog posts and discussion.
Recent FanPosts
FanShots
Quick hits of video, photos, quotes, chats, links and lists that you find around the web.
Recent FanShots
In Association With
Latest Puck Daddy - NHL from Yahoo! Sports
- Wednesday’s Three Stars: Devils fourth line steps up; Watch Prust dive
- Stephen Gionta leads Devils in Game 5 triumph over the New York Rangers
- Rangers, Devils back at MSG for pivotal Game 5; NHL 13 screenshots (Playoff Puck Previews)
- CBC announces ‘While the Men Watch Hockey Night,’ sets off backlash over sexism
- Eulogy: Remembering the 2011-12 Phoenix Coyotes
Latest stories and headlines from NHL.com
- Carter rescues Devils; New Jersey moves within 1 win of Cup finals with 5-3 win over Rangers
- Rangers' best game fails; Devils once again find holes in New York G Lundqvist in 5-3 victory
- Lundqvist struggles as Rangers lose Game 5, 5-3
- Devils-Rangers Sum
- Huberdeau leads Saint John to Memorial Cup semis
