Cam Ward Stops Toronto: Hurricanes 4, Maple Leafs 2
by Bob Wage on Jan 12, 2010 11:30 PM EST
123 comments
Joni Pitkanen had three assists, Cam Ward made 38 saves, and Patrick Dwyer scored the game-winner as the Carolina Hurricanes defeated the Toronto Maple Leafs, 4-2 on Tuesday night at the ACC. The Leafs had 40 shots on goal compared to 18 for the Canes, but Hurricanes goaltender Cam Ward was the difference as he stoned the home team when it mattered most.
The win made three in a row for the last place team as now the Hurricanes have also won four out of their last five.
Eric Staal started off the scoring on a sweet move during a powerplay chance midway through the first period. Jussi Jokinen and Joni Pitkanen picked up the assists.
Lee Stempniak would tie things up for the Leafs six minutes later.
Just 51 seconds into the second, Nikolai Kulemin made a tremendous individual move as he beat both Wards to give the Leafs the lead. First he skated around Aaron Ward, then beat Cam Ward from his knees, while making the score 2-1.
Six minutes later, Brandon Sutter knocked in a rebound to tie the score off of a Pitkanen shot.
Toronto controlled play most of the third period and out-shot the Canes 15-5, but could not solve Ward.
Finally, at about the 15 minute mark, Jiri Tlusty skated the puck around the net and passed out to Joni Pitkanen who once again shot the puck toward the net. Pat Dwyer, captain of the Albany River Rats, tipped in the eventual game winner.
Ray Whitney took an ill-advised hooking call with about three minutes left, but the Canes killed the penalty and Whitney atoned for his mistake by firing the puck in an empty net to close things out.
The Hurricanes will take on an angry Detroit team next on Thursday night. (The Wings just lost on the Island, 6-0).
Game Notes:
- Joni Pitkanen played over 30 minutes, tied a career high with his three assists, and was met with gushing praise by the Toronto broadcast team. According to Yahoo Sports.com, he was awarded the first star of the game.
- Aaron Ward had four blocked shots, two hits, three giveaways, and an assist. Yahoo gave him third star. While the defenseman had a good game, did Yahoo mix up their Wards? There was no "star love" for the goalie? (Lee Stempniak earned second star.)
- Brandon Sutter led the team with four shots on goal. His goal, his 11th of the season, ties him for second place on the team.
- Ray Whitney was the only Cane who was able to continue a streak. He has points in three straight games. Eric Staal now has goals in two straight.
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Hmmm, I am a little set back that the obvious wasn’t spoken.
Veteran time was increased and performance decreased. This “effort” against any team that isn’t in the fight for the cellar dwellar and it would of been a loss.
Staal played the first period and then turned on his super power, invisibilty.
Rod and Award should be drawn and quartered or whatever it takes to get them off the ice and make sure Yelle is among the chaff.
Once again, the Rats showed they are here. The Vets showed they are done. My only real concern is gettign the rest of the vets healthy so we can send the winners back down to the minors and continue the losing path to the draft.
It is a certain pain that the call ups are winners proving beyond a shadow of a doubt that there was no plan B, the plan A was wrong and this team could actually screw up losing.
A
The Canes are like a box of expired chocolates......
I guess not all vets are that bad, at least 13 and 8 look not bad. The still have a good speed and play making ability. Others – yeah…
Youngsters are good but still need some guidance. This season is not for them yet, the next is.
All above is my personal opinion.
Thanks,
Andy_S
by Andy_S on Jan 13, 2010 6:17 AM EST via mobile up reply actions
Hey ya know Rod is ona 4 game point streak and finished the night in the + column. Yeah, draw and quarter him.
Look at the replay of Rods point last night. Might as well been on the bench where he belongs. He did nothing, NOTHING to get that one. His play last night was awful, he is slow, out of position and no longer in control of his emotions. Those minutes would be better served getting Boychuck up to snuff or giving Tlusty more time, hell anything is better than Rod.
Andy, I like 13 and 8. It’s Yelle, Brindy, Walker, Cole, Rosie, and so on that I want to be dealt with. JR’s un-named 50% need to step up and assure our 30th place spot then leave, hopefully being traded and getting a return.
A
The Canes are like a box of expired chocolates......
Yes and I’ve noticed his minutes are creeping up. Probably will continue to rise until our next losing streak. He certainly needs to be kept under 10 minutes.
Yeah, yeah, I know, he shouldn’t even be out there(your welcome). Old news, no pun intended.
by drifterscape on Jan 13, 2010 8:36 AM EST up reply actions
pick which one you want
’cause you cant have it both ways -
When we win, you seem happy with the team because when they win, it usually means they have decreased vet time and increased rat time. But, when we lose, its usually because the rats were not given enough time or Vets were given too much time. However, you seem to want us to lose out to secure the top pick.
So which is it?
1. Play Rats (who are, in your eyes, better than the vets) which will probably = more wins, which will probably = NOT the top draft pick.
or
2. Play Vets which will probably = less wins (more frustration from you) which will probably = top draft pick.
Let’s see. Five “Rats” with an aggregate +1 among the five (two with a minus) and a grand total of two shots on goal among the bunch.
Yep, they were setting the ice on fire last night, all right.
Pesky vets.
I take it we are no longer considering Sutter a Rat?
"This guy is as meat and potatoes as there is of a man."
Gleason for Emperor!
The trade we have been talking about for months
What do you guys think?
I watched the Blue Jackets vs Blues game today while I was working, and this is the third Blues game I have caught this year. What are the chances we could snag David Backes for Ray Whitney? Or just get David Backes anyway we can. He is impressive. Plus he is an American, and he fights, like Gleason.
doubt they’d do it. Whitneys at the end of his career, hes going to a contender if anywhere, think rental. St. Louis is not gonna make the playoffs this year, so why would they trade a player like Backes whos on the “up slope” for Whitney whos on the “down slope”? Would love to get Backes though, just dont see how
Ward
We are winning with the Kids (Rats) and it is nice to see them playing the 2 way game. However, as goes Wardo..so goes this team. Let’s face it..he has been good. A-friggin Ward has also shown up of late and overall team D has been a bit better. I vote to keep the Rats on the ice. Question? Do you miss Cole?, Larose?, Sammy?, Walker?….??? I like these guys, but don’t miss them on th ice that much.
THE QUEST FOR TAYLOR HALL...
MIA
Yes, actually I’ve been missing LaRose since last season. Been missing Cole since 2006. Sammy has more game than BOYchuk by far. Dwyer’s OK but unimpressive. Tlusty and especially Samson will really look good next year.
by drifterscape on Jan 13, 2010 8:24 AM EST up reply actions
I too enjoyed
Last nights games…saw some good, and some down right ugly play on both teams. i did have to laugh at the leaf’s play-by-play team as they laid it on pretty thick on Brandon Sutter’s family dynasty with some 1300 plus goals VS Gretzky’s 800 plus effrots…who knew ?? The rat pack did again give a fair showing in out playing & gritty digging and fore checking. While not perfect, they gave as good as they got. Whitney did makecup fpr the crappy penalty…but still a win is a win…and yes Ward should have been the first or second star…but who am i to say ?? I’m a fan, what would i know ?
If you think you can't, you won't !
I agrree with maybe the exception of Rosey, maybe he he will come back and try to redeem himself for his woeful first half and play like he is capable of. Also if the Rats stay i think we keep Whitney to help bring them along for the rest of the season. Still beleive he will be JR next Glenn Wesley, one year rolling contract til he decides he’s done. Jus tmy opinion.
Who Sits or Goes to Keep the Albany Rats
I see the proposition as basic math: to keep four Albany Rats for the rest of the season, four veterans need to be traded. Putting aside the key issue of whether players are the objects of desire of other teams and focusing only on contributions this year in a head-to-head analysis, I would trade (1) Brind’Amour, (2) Yelle; (3) LaRose, and (4) Walker.
For next year, Yelle and Walker should not be re-signed and that leaves Brind’Amour to be traded or bought out and LaRose to be traded. Assuming that Taylor Hall or Tyler Seguin are drafted and assuming either on is ready to step in immediately for top nine minutes, Samsonov or Cullen would be the odd man out. As far as contributors, Cullen should be re-signed; and I am assuming Cullen, Whitney, and Corvo will be used as rental players and that Whitney will be re-signed. I also can understand Cullen and/or Corvo being traded as rental players and either or both being re-signed.
Brind’amour, LaRose and Samsonov, as I recall, have contracts that end the year after next. Although Brind’Amour has played much better as of late, really it is pretty sad that every time I watch on center ice with another team’s announcers they talk about how old and slow Brind’Amour is; and essentially shake their head that he is still on the roster and getting any ice time.
I dunno Doug. I’m of the opinion we get the slouchs back and play them. Hopefully they continue to suck and we earn the 30th spot and maybe get to trade them off one by one or all at once…
When the injured keystone cops return, that’s alot of money not to play. I would keep Sutter ofcourse, but probably rotate only one or two Rats until the eventual openings occur.
Nobody wants the rats more than I do, but this is a business and right now the business needs losses so we need our losers to step up and do what they have for us all year. The Rats ain’t going anywhere and sending 4-6 of them back down would be bitter sweet for them, but a Godsend for the Albany team. These kids are playing in the NHL, they may have to do stints in the minors to help the team this year, but they are here next year.
Lil, Chuck needs more TOI, I hope they keep him up for conditioning. If/when he hits his NHL speed and game he is gonna be great. He needs some work, though.
Here’s to hoping the losers come back and get us a good draft pick!
A
The Canes are like a box of expired chocolates......
I thought you were one who wouldnt stand for mediocrity, now you are asking for it?
Wins are a product of 1. their opponents and 2. Cams play. Nothing more.
Agree with the second. As to the first, mediocrity is exactly what I am afraid of..winning at this point serves lettle purpose. We win 50-7-% we still miss the PO’s and we miss the top draft spot.
I wish the Vets to come and have individual success and team failure. Some fair play and what minimal trade value they have will be there. Then get rid of them.
A
The Canes are like a box of expired chocolates......
3 Stars:
At the end of the broadcast, they named Cam Ward as 3rd star (I thought he deserved 1st and considered it a snub ;D ) . But you’re right that A Ward is on the NHL gamesheet. I’m with you and that is an error.
It’s different up there in Toronto.
Gleason for the "C" :
Just what do we need to do to make this happen?
Cam Ward was 4th best player of the night in the League according to the ESPN Daily Stats’ formula. Behind Brodeur and Lundqvist (that was a helluva game) and Nabokov. Aren’t they all going to the Olympics?
Pitkanen was the next highest from the CAR TOR game at 13th on the night in the League.
Gleason for the "C" :
Just what do we need to do to make this happen?
by hockeymomof2 on Jan 13, 2010 8:25 AM EST up reply actions
But you’re right that A Ward is on the NHL gamesheet. I’m with you and that is an error. It’s different up there in Toronto.
They couldn’t get our guys’ names right during the game, maybe the confused the sucky Ward for the good one? That or he talked them into submission.
"This guy is as meat and potatoes as there is of a man."
Gleason for Emperor!
Nice Article on Pat Dwyer from Toronto Newspaper
Here’s a nice article on Pat Dwyer from a Toronto newspaper:
Here’s a partial quote:
But instead of Bozak, it was an even older former NCAA player on the Carolina bench, Patrick Dwyer, who had the perfect ending.
In only his 21st game this season, the 26-year-old centre cruised past a daydreaming, flat-footed Luke Schenn in front of the Leaf net and calmly tipped his fourth NHL goal past Jonas Gustavsson for what proved to be the winner in a 4-2 Hurricanes triumph.
Dwyer, to Carolina from Spokane by way of Western Michigan University as a little-noticed free agent in ’06, even had his parents in from Wisconsin to watch.
“It took me a while to get here to the NHL,” he said afterwards. “But looking back, it’s even more exciting to have made it against the odds.”
Cam Ward
He won that game for the Canes…with the current Canes defense, as Cam Ward goes so does the Carolina Hurricanes.
Here come the vets, there goes our winning streak
Cole, LaRose, Samsonov getting ready to come back into the lineup…. sigh
I agree with the Capt. I am also glad, we need to get back to losing so we at least get a draft pick out of this pig misery of a season.
I thought the Canes played a crappy game last night. Staal vanished after his goal. Award I thought was as bad as he was good. Rod sucked, Yelle was a hollow uniform.
Outside of Cam and Sutter on the front, the team just sucked less than the twigs last night. Nothing to write home about.
Bring on the losers!!! We want the top draft pick!!
A
The Canes are like a box of expired chocolates......
I’m not trying to start trouble here, but for the people so upset about the veterans getting more TOI and our performance falling, isn’t that exactly what we want to happen? Don’t we want Brindy, Yelle, A.Ward, et. al getting as many minutes as they can handle without actually turning to dust so that we stop this crazy thing called a winning streak? The way I look at it now is if they win, great! I get to put a smiley face on my calendar and drive my roommates nuts with all the cheering. :) But if they lose, oh well. At least we’re one step closer to rebuilding. So while having the vets come back or play more minutes is really frustrating, is it really all that bad in the grand scheme of things?
"This guy is as meat and potatoes as there is of a man."
Gleason for Emperor!
I’m so confused! Now I don’t know what I want! Help!
Gleason for the "C" :
Just what do we need to do to make this happen?
by hockeymomof2 on Jan 13, 2010 9:27 AM EST up reply actions
LOL cheer for them to win, but don’t get too low when they lose.
"This guy is as meat and potatoes as there is of a man."
Gleason for Emperor!
what if Mo ran a line of just Rats and let the other 3 lines be vets? Then we could read the N&O at the games until the Rats line is on the ice, watch/cheer for them, then go back to reading when the veterans are back out there. This way we can remain happy on our quest for the pick.
by Capt. Stinky on Jan 13, 2010 9:59 AM EST up reply actions
That sounds fine to me, but you may need to find alternative reading materials because like rmmeli said…not a whole lot of content there.
"This guy is as meat and potatoes as there is of a man."
Gleason for Emperor!
It would be a joyous thing to watch Hurricanes games and see the intensity of 2005-2006 or even the 2007-2008 when the Albany Rats were playing. All one can hope for is effort and hockey intelligence. Hockey is a game of chance and results are anything but guaranteed. To me it is all about effort and teamwork.
Can’t speak for others, but I’d much rather there’d be nothing to…errr… complain about. However, to paraphrase the ever loquacious A.Ward, when you lay a whole chicken farm’s worth of eggs, people are going to have something to say.
"This guy is as meat and potatoes as there is of a man."
Gleason for Emperor!
Running Lines with Albany Rats
I wonder why Maurice/Francis/Rowe don’t double shift Staal (at center), Cullen, and Sutter with Boychuk and Samson. It is virtually impossible to tell whether Samson and Boychuk are ready for the NHL at eight minutes a game; and with Yelle or Brind’Amour centering them, it is impossible to tell, I respectfully submit. Why not see how a Boychuk/Sutter/Samson line; or a Boychuk/Staal/Samson line; or a Boychuk/Cullen/Samson line does? It would help Boychuk and Samson figure out what areas they need to improve.
Losing is Best Long Term -- what an irony
Truthfully, the Hurricanes long term need to lose enough games to come in 30th. It is also obvious to me that to have the best chance of losing Brind’Amour, Aaron Ward, Yelle, and Wallin would get tons of time on ice. As long as that quartet is on the ice, victories will be hard to come by. LaRose, Cole, and Samsonov are NHL quality players; and are not captains of the ship of fail by any means.
It is a hard balance, however, to keep fan interest up and to give the Albany Rats meaningful time on the ice for NHL experience with the need to avoid a meaningless run to 10th place. Additionally, the Hurricanes are really too good a team to be 30th unless they over-play Aaron Ward, Wallin, Brind’Amour and Yelle. Samsonov, LaRose and Cole will not tank the team by their play. For example, as drifterscape points out Samsonov is far more seasoned at this point than Boychuk. On the other hand, Boychuk has much more speed than Samsonov and is quite strong on defensive. Boychuk has a tremendous long-term upside.
funny (off-topic but funny)
so on the ’canes website when you click on the team and the links to each player, you go to a bio page which includes a video highlight. brindy, for example, they show the ottawa slapshot from the other night. aaron ward? they show a goal from last season when he was with the bruins… lol
by Capt. Stinky on Jan 13, 2010 10:27 AM EST up reply actions
Playing Vets Should Lead to More Ice-Time for the Kids
One thing most of you are forgetting is: you have to play the vets to increase their trade value. If you healthy scratch Brind’Amour, AWard, LaRose, Cole, Samsonov, etc.; you don’t showcase anything they could do for another team. Would an opposing GM take a flyer on LaRose or Brind’Amour if they are constantly sitting on the bench? If they play and show a thing or two, some team might find a way to pick them up. Once that is done, one of the kids has an open spot in our lineup and our cap hit/salary hit is reduced.
by PackPride17 on Jan 13, 2010 10:54 AM EST up reply actions
I didn’t see the game last night, so I can’t comment on the play. But Brindy has 3 points in his last 4 games. If he puts a few more points up, maybe a playoff contender/bubble team (like NYI) would go after him because of his experience, faceoffs, and him putting up some points in his dimished role.
I’ve said this before, you have to sell high. Brindy is not going to be high, but him putting up points increases his value to other teams ever so slightly.
by PackPride17 on Jan 13, 2010 11:01 AM EST up reply actions
Any trade of Brind’Amour for anything is an improvement — a 7th round pick in 2025 is fine. The way Brind’Amour has played in these last four games, a team that needs a fourth line veteran who can win critical face-offs, might well take him — at least it is my dream and I am sticking to it.
I know what you’re saying, I would take nothing if another team would take Brindy and his contract. Again, my point is that if Rod continues to get a point here are there (and ice time somewhat dictates points) then some team might try to get him. He has a large contract for his production, so points maybe would help justify another team picking him up.
by PackPride17 on Jan 13, 2010 11:32 AM EST up reply actions
He could go to the Flyers with Whitney as a 2-player deal. Can they handle that cap hit if it’s only for a couple months?
Lavi seems to have the magic touch with former players and might be just what Brindy needs. Look at what Leighton’s unbeaten streak in 9 starts and a 2.18 GAA.
And returning to the Flyers might just be an appropriate “closing parenthesis” on the story for Brind`Amour’s career.
Gleason for the "C" :
Just what do we need to do to make this happen?
by hockeymomof2 on Jan 13, 2010 11:06 AM EST up reply actions
How about a three player deal -- Brind'Amour, LaRose, Whitney?
How about a three player deal — Brind’Amour, LaRose, Whitney? Whitney, hopefully, would be a play-off rental and would re-sign. All those guys for Braydon Coburn and draft picks.
I don’t think Philly has enough cap room to take on all of those players. Hell, I would love to get Coburn, but he currently makes less than LaRose. That would be $8.85M of cap going to Philly for $1.4M of cap coming back. Also, Philly is sort of short on draft picks.
by PackPride17 on Jan 13, 2010 11:29 AM EST up reply actions
Breaking news from the Fishtank
Ray Whitney fish has died. I’m kinda bummed. I liked Wiz-fish. I think I’ll keep him in the freezer and bury him in the garden next to Staalsy-fish and Karmanos-fish, when the ground thaws.
Theory: The fish we call Toronto may be the culprit in this actually. He was out mingling with the other fish when the floating corpse was discovered. Time to take him back to Petco?
So, here’s the thing – this seems to give credence to the Whitney rental-player trade rumors, no?
On a happier note: perhaps it’s finally time to go get Sutter fish! But I think we need to take cg with us to help pick him out.
Gleason for the "C" :
Just what do we need to do to make this happen?
I think there definitely needs to be a Sutter fish!!!!! And I will be more than happy to help pick him out. :) The fish would have to be extremely thin, but full of fight and maybe a descendant of another famous fish. Maybe you need to get a Gleasonen fish too (or do you have one already?).
I think the Whitney fish dying does, in fact, signal that he will be leaving Raleigh as, at the very least, a rental player.
"This guy is as meat and potatoes as there is of a man."
Gleason for Emperor!
My fishtank has a better accuracy rate than Ecklund at least.
Gleason for the "C" :
Just what do we need to do to make this happen?
by hockeymomof2 on Jan 13, 2010 9:43 AM EST up reply actions
yeah but then again so does picking randomly from a hat http://hockeybuzzhogwash.com/?p=1314
by wylde4canes on Jan 13, 2010 10:39 AM EST up reply actions
That’s funny. Thanks for the link.
Gleason for the "C" :
Just what do we need to do to make this happen?
by hockeymomof2 on Jan 13, 2010 10:59 AM EST up reply actions
Gleasonen fish
Yep – he’s one of the 4 golden Danios I’ve had since March: Timmy, Pits, Corvo and Babchuk…..We all remember the problem Babchuk.
BTW – none of these seems to be injured (Corvo). Erik and Rosey fish are perfectly fine as well. So, to come clean, my tank is not completely infallible.
Gleason for the "C" :
Just what do we need to do to make this happen?
by hockeymomof2 on Jan 13, 2010 11:02 AM EST up reply actions
After the puck to the face did the Gleasonen fish show up with all kinds of new attitude and toughness? LOL
"This guy is as meat and potatoes as there is of a man."
Gleason for Emperor!
by caniacgirl on Jan 13, 2010 11:08 AM EST via mobile up reply actions
It would seem so. My Cam Ward shrimp’s illness and demise seemed to correspond with his lengthy injury. Still wondering what will happen to PKarmanosJr though.
Gleason for the "C" :
Just what do we need to do to make this happen?
by hockeymomof2 on Jan 13, 2010 10:58 AM EST up reply actions
the value of winning
Regardless of where we end up in the draft, it is important for the core of the team and the younf future players to experience success = winning games. Also statistical success among vets will increase trade values. Our future is not reliant on one draft pick, even if it is TH. Also, it is more fun for us fans to see wins. Trust me, we are far enough down in the standings to have ample enough fodder to keep the moaning and biatching fires or this following burning on the blog.
THE QUEST FOR TAYLOR HALL...
by Caniac233 on Jan 13, 2010 11:08 AM EST via mobile reply actions
I would very respectfully disagree as to the point that one pick doesn’t change the team. I think picking Staal, Cam Ward, and Sutter did change the team dramatically for the better. I believe picking Taylor Hall or Tyler Seguin would likewise would improve the team tremendously in their first season.
Losing of course is no fun at all; and having veterans and young players learning how to win is also important. Additionally, the better the veterans play the greater their trade value. All that being said, the organization I believe is far, far better served IF the Hurricanes get to pick first or second in the entry draft.
I said our future…..meaning the team future. I did not say one player would not make a difference. Notice my tagline. I think that part of our future is here now from the Rats to Staal and Cam and the Finns. We need to build on success while securing a decent spot, which is a lock, in the draft.
THE QUEST FOR TAYLOR HALL...
by Caniac233 on Jan 13, 2010 2:33 PM EST via mobile up reply actions
As for the Quest for Taylor Hall.....
James Mirtle does the math for the Leaf’s fans. “Carolina in the rearview mirror coming fast”
The punchline for them? – Boston gets their first round pick this year. And Kessel hasn’t exaclyy been blowing the doors off the barn, to say the least. That would be really depressing.
A Nation of masochists indeed.
Gleason for the "C" :
Just what do we need to do to make this happen?
by hockeymomof2 on Jan 13, 2010 11:47 AM EST up reply actions
Interesting Article that Quotes Jim Rutherford on Hall or Seguin impact
I posted this on another fanpost, but it is relevant, so excuse the double post: I think many of us would find Rutherford’s assessment of the impact of Hall or Seguin to be accurate. Note the references again to changes that need to be made [I assume - A.Ward, Wallin, Yelle, Walker, Brind’Amour, at minimum and probably LaRose and Samsonov, with Corvo, Cullen Whitney being traded and Whitney re-signed if not all three].
http://sports.espn.go.com/nhl/columns/story?columnist=lebrun_pierre&id=4822342
Here is a portion of the article:
The fluctuation from good to bad to good … the system allows for a dramatic shift either way. “No question,” Carolina GM Jim Rutherford said.
And who would know more than him? A Cup champion in 2006 to out of the playoffs the next two seasons to an impressive conference finals run last spring to a possible lottery draft pick in June. Next season? Who knows. Maybe Carolina will be back in the playoffs with a healthy Cam Ward and Eric Staal, the seasoning of some younger players, and possibly a Taylor Hall or a Tyler Seguin in the lineup.
“You put Hall or Seguin in our lineup, we make the changes we have to make, we get the goaltending that we’re capable of getting, we get Eric on his A-game, I mean, yeah, we can go from the conference finals to picking first overall and back to the conference finals,” Rutherford said.
Can one player make a difference, yes. But even Sidney or Alex needed parts to compliment them. I would love to get Taylor Hall, but beyond him I think the top of this draft class is somewhat equal. I know a lot of people really like Seguin or Fowler, but I think Kabanov, Connolly and Gormley will be very good players. What I’m saying is, if we don’t get Hall, it doesn’t really matter to me who we draft. I think every player (maybe even including Hall) is at least a year away from making a difference. Also, one benefit of drafting lower would be that players cap hit is lower. For example: Hall (1st overall) would be around $3.75M as compared to Kabanov (maybe 7th overall) would be around $2M.
See: Kovalchuk
With all the talk of an imminent Kovalchuk trade, I think your point about needing a team and not just one guy is well-illustrated, packpride17.
Gleason for the "C" :
Just what do we need to do to make this happen?
by hockeymomof2 on Jan 13, 2010 12:00 PM EST up reply actions
To me I think Taylor Hall, Tyler Seguin,and Cam Fowler seem to be perhaps the surest bets as prospects. I agree there are some excellent prospects in this draft and that it would not be catastrophic to finish above 29th. It does matter, I think, beyond perhaps the first 8 to 10. There will still be some excellent players available, but they will be less certain to make an immediate impact, as you point out.
I agree after say the top 10, there will be a drop off in talent. I’m just saying, the top end draft talent might not be all that different, except for position. Seguin wasn’t even on the radar before this season, Connolly was a 10 to 15 selection earlier on, and Kabanov was a sure-fire top 5 – now he might not go until 8 or 9. Again, I just don’t think anyone we draft is going to come in and make an immediate impact. My opinion is if we drafted Hall, he would start out on the 3rd line and performance would dictate if he moves up, stays, or goes down. If any team is counting on a rookie to be a big contributor, they’re in trouble. Tampa did with Stamkos and he flopped early on, the Islanders have with Tavares and he started out hot, but has cooled off.
by PackPride17 on Jan 13, 2010 12:23 PM EST up reply actions
I've lost my mind
I think we can still make a run at the playoffs. I know I’m crazy. Staal and Ward are starting to heat up. We are going to start getting some people back in our lineup. I agree make trades if available but I ’ve seen this team the past two years win a lot of games in the second half of the season.
Let the flames begin!!!
Aaron Ward quoted in the National Post - is he frequenting Canes Country now?
I don’t know if he’s talking about us, but there are only a few other places. Here’s the link for the entire story. (which was also on the Hurricanes Newsstand today)
You don’t just lay an egg, you lay a poultry farm full of eggs, and blame needs to be assessed," Ward said . “And I can understand the level of frustration in the community in Raleigh.”
Wait — frustration in Raleigh? Really?
“Our fans have decided that they’re going to be pretty vocal about how they feel about the players,” Ward said. "It’s been tough on the players.
“You laugh about the media attention you get in Toronto, I wouldn’t compare it to what you get in Carolina, but there is a level of criticism being launched by fans. And it’s pretty vocal. They find an avenue to state it, and it gets back to us as players. It’s either the fans in the building getting close enough to voice their opinion, or it’s via blog, it’s via whatever. But inevitably, you’re hearing it.
What, do you think we don’t deserve it? We’re in last place. I don’t know about you, but when someone buys a ticket to see the Hurricanes play, we owe them more than a lacklustre effort."
Gleason for the "C" :
Just what do we need to do to make this happen?
Of course I find it funny that he's the one talking about this.
That’s the quote I was referring to earlier. I’m kind of torn as to whether it’s a good thing that they are aware of our displeasure or not. On the one hand, you can’t have them thinking all is peaches and sunshine when it’s not. But on the other hand, we’ve got a really good reputation about Raleigh being a place players like to play and I’d hate for one really crappy season to change that.
I’m not so sure that it’s necessarily the players reading this stuff (frankly I’d be concerned if they had that much free time on their hands to lurk on CC). They have family and friends who have ears and eyes. Maybe that’s something we (myself included) should keep in mind.
"This guy is as meat and potatoes as there is of a man."
Gleason for Emperor!
True but A.Ward has sucked this season, maybe someone in his family can tell him that one. Plus he knows he’s not playing his best. Every video footage of the goals against there he is in the background.
Staal will be the next CAPTAIN........get over it!
So maybe hearing it from loud, obnoxious fans isn’t really all that necessary? Eh. I don’t know. Like I said, I’m torn as to how I feel on this one. Having A.Ward say it doesn’t really help its credibility either. This is the same man that was upset when Raleigh didn’t sport Team Ward shirts after “the punch”.
"This guy is as meat and potatoes as there is of a man."
Gleason for Emperor!
I’m sure things get back to the players. I personally don’t want to be offensive to any player, but the world is a tough place. If any player can’t take the criticism that comes from a 14 game losing streak and being in 30th place out of 30 teams, they are in the wrong line of work. We fans that pay to see them play a “game” and buy their merchandise, deserve to see better effort and expect them to compete night in and night out. I love this hockey team and I wish the best for them, as a team and individually.
I’m sorry, these comments sort of piss me off. I’m wondering if he is the “cancer” (I don’t mean to offend anyone or their family) on this team.
When I slack off at my job… I am the first one to know it…. and usually someone else will eventually get around to telling me that I’m slacking off….
How is Aaron Ward different from me?
He get’s paid a hell of a lot more money than I do to slack off on the job……
by Mateos_Canes_Lamp on Jan 13, 2010 1:31 PM EST up reply actions
I’ll give him props for saying all the right things at least.
Member of Canes Country and the Cat Scratch Reader
What, do you think we don’t deserve it? We’re in last place. I don’t know about you, but when someone buys a ticket to see the Hurricanes play, we owe them more than a lacklustre effort."
This is why A Ward has a seat in the booth waiting for him when he finally does retire. I admire the guy, he really seems to speak his mind.
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 Jan 13, 2010 1:38 PM EST up reply actions
+1
beats the hell outta: “Well John, this goal really does represent a WATERSHED MOMENT in this game.”
:>(
Member of Canes Country and the Cat Scratch Reader
:snorts: But without Tripp, what we have to entertain us when things are going badly?
"This guy is as meat and potatoes as there is of a man."
Gleason for Emperor!
you could have A Ward say: “WTF was that wraparound for Staal??? Seriously John, tell Joni to SHOOT THE DAMN PUCK MORE!!!”
Savvy?
Member of Canes Country and the Cat Scratch Reader
+2
Beats the hell outta: “Well John, Having played the position… I know that if you want to score on Cam Ward you have to shoot glove side high…”
by Mateos_Canes_Lamp on Jan 13, 2010 1:41 PM EST up reply actions
If you’re reading this A. Ward; it’s nothing personal. We just want to win.
greaticepectations.blogspot.com
by Great Ice-Pectations on Jan 13, 2010 1:35 PM EST up reply actions
Uh huh. Exactly. I seem to remember some glowing comments about his Ward’s Warrior program too. Good with the bad. Surely no different than any other rabid fanbase. Read the other blogs.
Gleason for the "C" :
Just what do we need to do to make this happen?
by hockeymomof2 on Jan 13, 2010 1:39 PM EST up reply actions
I think we call ‘em like we see ’em. When anyone has a good game or a bad game we say so. I can even think of instances where Roddy or A. Ward had a good night, and we say so. Granted with some mirth, but I think we’re a pretty fair bunch when it comes to credit where credit is due.
greaticepectations.blogspot.com
by Great Ice-Pectations on Jan 13, 2010 1:41 PM EST up reply actions
Actually…. At this point… Please continue to lose…..
I will be pissed if we miss the playoffs AND finish 20th in the league! I want the #1 pick this summer…..
by Mateos_Canes_Lamp on Jan 13, 2010 1:39 PM EST up reply actions
Agreed.
greaticepectations.blogspot.com
by Great Ice-Pectations on Jan 13, 2010 1:41 PM EST up reply actions
I'm not suggesting we owe the guy an apology
I think it’s the other way round. I just thought it answered the question of the changing roles of media and sports and all that. Maybe he’s reading CanesNow or a few other places with active Caniac forums.
I think he’s right and sort of apologizes when he says: “I don’t know about you, but when someone buys a ticket to see the Hurricanes play, we owe them more than a lacklustre effort.”
Gleason for the "C" :
Just what do we need to do to make this happen?
by hockeymomof2 on Jan 13, 2010 1:35 PM EST up reply actions
I know you weren’t suggesting that HM. I was just sort of thinking aloud (or whatever the internet equivalent of that is).
"This guy is as meat and potatoes as there is of a man."
Gleason for Emperor!
And apparently rather controversially seeing as how the comments exploded.
"This guy is as meat and potatoes as there is of a man."
Gleason for Emperor!
Isn’t it though?…..I do find the growing influence of blogdom to be the point of this.
Fans have been complaining forever (not just the Canes in 2009-10, but for decades about disappointment with their favorite team)
I think Aaron has a closer ear/eye than others because he is trying to figure out his future in Raleigh sports media.
Gleason for the "C" :
Just what do we need to do to make this happen?
by hockeymomof2 on Jan 13, 2010 1:42 PM EST up reply actions
I think the second he, or anyone else steps off the ice, we’ll look at the contributions they’ve made and treat them with respect. But as long as he or anyone else is still playing, we’re going to be critical. That’s OUR job.
greaticepectations.blogspot.com
by Great Ice-Pectations on Jan 13, 2010 1:44 PM EST up reply actions
Unless their name happens to start with a T and end with a “Ripp Tracy” right?
"This guy is as meat and potatoes as there is of a man."
Gleason for Emperor!
No, his job is to only speak in hyperbole.
greaticepectations.blogspot.com
by Great Ice-Pectations on Jan 13, 2010 1:54 PM EST up reply actions
I don’t know if he even knows what that is.
"This guy is as meat and potatoes as there is of a man."
Gleason for Emperor!
It’s like using a watershed word in a sentence. Think that would help him?
greaticepectations.blogspot.com
by Great Ice-Pectations on Jan 13, 2010 1:57 PM EST up reply actions
The outer walls have been breached!
Much bigger topic than a reply-to-a-reply, but you are correct that in the Internet age, ALL of the former filters and barriers are down as far as access to most anything. It’s a new world.
I would be surprised if more than a couple of players actually cruise the fan blogs themselves. Still, they have to have some idea of what the general mood is, via family, friends, or even staff.
I do assume that this blog is sampled by a few within the Canes org. And, via that route, if nothing else, word get back.
The outer walls have been breached!
“Imperial Walkers have entered the base, Imperial Walkers have………….. "
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 Jan 13, 2010 2:27 PM EST up reply actions
No, that would be the Kings. If he went to the Sens he’s just be a lazy #<%/! .
by drifterscape on Jan 13, 2010 9:25 PM EST up reply actions
I like how in the Aaron Ward press conference (the day he was traded back to Carolina) he had been playing golf “with members of Kid Rocks band” and (he was “lightly sauced…”)
by Mateos_Canes_Lamp on Jan 13, 2010 3:15 PM EST reply actions
I am sure most players can differentiate between honest, valid criticism of their on-ice performance—which I consider acceptable and have done myself in the past—and personal, disparaging, continuous attacks on not only how they play but their character, personality, and ability. It is the latter type of commentary that I skip by just checking out the author of the comment before I read it.
Furthermore, certain posters have created whipping boys of the players they just do not appear to like. And nothing those players can do is positive. But they will instantly, shrilly, and venomously point out every flaw and mistake made by those players. I find some of them to be hypocrites when it comes to the same errors made by their favorite players as they find excuses for their mistakes or lack of performance.
For the most part, I agree that the majority of those who post here appear to be fans who offer valid even if biting criticism. But there are some who do not.
by ncdavid on Jan 13, 2010 3:44 PM EST via mobile reply actions
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