Ray Whitney Sparks Carolina: Hurricanes 2, Avalanche 1
by Bob Wage on Jan 9, 2010 2:08 AM EST
105 comments
It was a fight-filled, penalty ridden contest, but the Carolina Hurricanes stood up to the physical play of the Colorado Avalanche, jumped out to a 2-0 lead on the back of two goals by Ray Whitney, then held on behind the goaltending of Cam Ward, as they defeated the Avs, 2-1 on Friday night at the RBC.
The visitors knew that the Canes might be tired because the club did not arrive back from Nashville until 2 a.m. They tried to out-muscle the home team the entire first period.
But the first fight of the game had nothing to do with that strategy and everything to do with retribution. Darcy Tucker challenged Tuomo Ruutu on his second shift of the game and Ruutu dropped the gloves with the savvy, more experienced antagonist. Ruutu hit Tucker from behind earlier this season in Colorado and served his three game suspension, but apparently hockey justice had not yet been served, at least not in Tucker's eyes.
The Colorado player wanted his own brand of justice and Ruutu was honorable enough to oblige. But while the Finn probably won the fight, he might have lost the battle. After being separated from the pesky Av, the winger skated immediately to the dressing room and then reportedly left the arena.
Coach Paul Maurice said after the game that he did not hurt his hand, which is what looked like happened on the video, but he did not give further details. We will have to wait to find out more.
Soon after the fight, Cody McLeod was called for charging and the Canes powerplay unit took the ice. Matt Cullen fed Ray Whitney on a rush, who promptly faked out a defenseman as well as the Colorado goalie, then neatly tucked the game's first goal in the net.
It was the first powerplay goal for the Hurricanes in the last 11 attempts and first one of the new year.
The penalties and rough stuff continued, but the Canes ended up killing off the penalties they needed to as they were called for seven minors and two fighting majors in the period. Tom Kostopoulos also dropped the mitts with Ryan Wilson late in the first.
Ray Whitney struck again just 37 seconds into the second when he faked out Peter Budaj once again to make the score 2-0. The winger faked a shot on the goalie, then snapped a quick one by him at a tight angle.
There would be yet another fight as Tim Gleason went after Chris Stewart just four seconds after the goal, but things finally quieted down after that and both teams concentrated more on hockey.
Ray Whitney said after the game that the players didn't really have much choice but to settle down. "It's too tiring to keep playing like that all game long", said the veteran. And indeed, the Canes did tire a bit in the third. But Cam Ward was on his "A" game throughout and looked like he was headed for his first shut out of the season until the Avs ruined that as Brandon Yip scored with just 15.5 seconds left.
Whitney had a chance for a hat trick as he missed a long backhanded attempt on an open net at the end of the game, but he'll have to wait for another day for his next "hattie".
The Hurricanes will practice Saturday at noon at the Rec Zone in preparation for their next match on Sunday at 5 against the Ottawa Senators.
Game Notes:
- It was difficult to tell what exactly happened with Ruutu and of course no one gave any specifics after the game, (other than it was not his hand). He could be out for a few games or possibly even longer. After the game, Ray Whitney defended Ruutu's actions in the dressing room. It’s kind of a code of ethics. When you hit a guy the way he did and knock him out, you have to kind of answer it. He was a man about it and lined up with him. He did what was required in the game of hockey, and unfortunately, he hurt himself doing it. But as his teammates, you respect him even more for standing up and doing what was needed."
- Matt Cullen played an excellent game. Not only did he get the two primary assists on the Whitney goals, he also won 79% of his faceoffs, (19 of 24).
- The kids from Albany did pretty well again. While they did not necessarily stand out offensively, they played a very good defensive game. Samson only had 7:59 of TOI, but with so many penalties to kill, the lack of ice time is understandable.
- Aaron Ward played another good game and led the team with four hits as well as four blocked shots. The defenseman has had a couple of good games in a row now. Niclas Wallin also had four hits.
- There were 42 penalty minutes in the first period alone, (24 for the Canes), as the teams finished up with a combined total of 58 minutes of penalties assessed in the game.
- Carolina is now 10-3-1 when leading after the second period.
- Cam Ward's last shutout was on April 9, 2009 with a 9-0 beat down of the New York Islanders.
Attached is a portion of the media's interview with Ray Whitney after the game.
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The quote of the game came from tripp “The Tool” tracy. “Beat like a rented mule” Can’t stand tripp, but dam that was funny.
I thought Dwyer had a stand out game on the effort front. Carson seemed pretty steady and mostly in position, too.
Smason has been tauted as a strong guy, last night I got to see it, NHL style. I think he bumped up his call up status.
Any word on anybody coming back from IR or do we get another Rat for Ruutu? You gotta feel for the Rat coach. About 1/3 of his team is gone. I’m sure the players don’t mind. Conversly, the injury’s to the Canes seem to have helped. Despite a couple loons on here that want the vet squad (read losers) and think these Rats aren’t ready. It seems pretty obvious the coaching staff is being smiled upon by incredible depth. To say these guys aren’t ready for the NHL is ridiculus as they post yet another win instead of a 14 game losing streak.
GO RATS!!!!
A
A
The Canes are like a box of expired chocolates......
Since you say they are ready, I would expect at least .500 hockey the remainder of the season.
by Killswitch on Jan 9, 2010 10:59 AM EST via mobile up reply actions
Albany Rats and .500 Hockey
It will be hard for the Hurricanes to play .500 hockey without Ruutu and especially without Ruutu and Cole; however, I think as long as the Albany Rats are playing, .500 hockey is a realistic goal. The Albany Rats and Sutter add desperately needed speed to the team. They also are playing with their hearts on their sleeves and have a consistent high-level of compete each shift.
- got second star honors for the League last night from both Puck Daddy and NHL.com. Wooo.
And I was shocked to read the Canes have won 3 of their last 5. That’s better than a lot of the league’s best. Let’s hope it’s just an anomaly on the quest for the pick of the crop come draft day.
Gleason for the "C" :
Just what do we need to do to make this happen?
Sorry
Yeah – #13 (the blog’s auto format believed the “#” sign meant I was starting a list)
Gleason for the "C" :
Just what do we need to do to make this happen?
by hockeymomof2 on Jan 9, 2010 10:53 AM EST up reply actions
Whitney second star at Puck Daddy
Here’s the link:
http://sports.yahoo.com/nhl/blog/puck_daddy/post/Friday-s-Three-Stars-Myers-Whitney-take-charge?urn=nhl,212598&utm_source=twitterfeed&utm_medium=twitter
Continuing the Taylor Hall v. Tyler Seguin Discussion (OT)
Here is the link to a mock draft that has the Hurricanes ending 30th, picking first, and choosing Tyler Seguin, with Edmonton taking Taylor Hall.
thanks for the link. Interesting stuff here in that Dobber seems to agree with Cory about Hall
Depending on the scout, the World Juniors either did a lot for Taylor Hall’s stock, or it just proved how far he is away from having an immediate impact. The good: Hall nailed 2 PPG in his draft year at the prestigious tourney, something Sidney Crosby never did. The bad: he was rag-dolled at times by Team USA’s blueline and that raises questions about how he’ll handle the NHL.
GM of CanesCountry.com
There is a concept in logic that goes “if you believe it, you will see it.” I think that concept applies to analyzing Taylor Hall and Tyler Seguin. Reasonable minds differ and the person’s particular analysis reflects their own predispositions. A scout or analysis (or hack like me) begins having an opinion about Hall v. Seguin as the #1 pick. Hall had plenty of outstanding plays and those excellent plays could justify a strong opinion that he is a no-brainer as the first pick. On the other hand, the U.S. team did a great job of using physicality to slow him down and stop him at times. Those facts would equally justify a conclusion that Hall might not have an impact the first day of the upcoming season.
To be certain, I am in the take Taylor Hall camp for reasons already discussed. I am quite content, however, to see Tyler Seguin in a Hurricanes uniform next year.
Another Link Ranking Players (OT) Taylor Hall v. Tyler Seguin
This report ranks Taylor Hall first. Just shows there is no overwhelming consensus. I agree with the conclusion that Hall is the safety bet for becoming an NHL all-star.
http://www.puckprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=417
2010 NHL Entry Draft Top 100 Prospects
Tier 1:
1. Taylor Hall, Left Wing, Windsor –OHL
Scouting Report: If you don’t know who Taylor Hall is by now you haven’t been following the 2010 Draft probably at all. The Windsor Spitfires star has dominated the OHL for three seasons and brings an excellent skill set to the forefront. He has an awkward lean when he skates, but Hall can fly. He’s tenacious on the forecheck, dazzles with soft hands and has a hard, accurate shot. Hall is probably the safest bet in this Draft to be an eventual NHL All-Star.
2. Tyler Seguin, Center, Plymouth – OHL
Scouting Report: If you asked me who had the highest ceiling in this Draft class, my answer wouldn’t be Taylor Hall but rather the young Seguin. Tyler has exploded onto the OHL scene this year. With great vision and passing ability Seguin is an elite playmaker but also shows a goal-scoring touch. His development has come a long way in a short amount of time and the team that drafts him can only hope that the development curve stays steep.
3. Cam Fowler, Defense, Windsor –OHL
Scouting Report: Teammate of Taylor Hall, Fowler is the top defender in this year’s class. Puck-mover extraordinaire, Fowler can make cross-ice and stretch passes at ease. When he has the puck on his stick, his hands, vision and awareness are smooth and beautiful to watch. Not much of a physical presence, preferring to use stick work and positioning on defense. The only knock on him would be the lack of goals for such a skilled player, but there is no doubt of his high-end potential.
ALSO OT but interesting: Column says Rutherford to "Blow Up" Hurricanes
Although the article says Whitney is among those expected to leave, I would doubt that happens. I for one am looking forward to having the Albany Rats stick in Carolina. To my mind, Sutter has already established he is one of the best forwards on the team. I also think Boychuk, Tlusty, Dwyer, and Samson each bring more speed, grit, skill, and strength to their game than the players they would replace. Cullen sadly seems the odd man out. He has real talent and is a great team player. It just seems hard to figure out how to re-sign both Whitney and Cullen. Maybe Rutherford can figure out how to make that happen. It is possible if Rutherford could trade Brind’Amour and get his anchor of a salary off the books.
With all the talent available, with Walker, Brind’Amour, and Yelle replaced with a line of perhaps Samson, Dwyer, and Kostopoulos, Maurice/Francis/Rowe could roll four lines as I thought they planned to do this year.
Interesting article
Rutherford to blow up Carolina
It came out this week that the Hurricanes plan on overhauling 50 % of their roster by next season. Aaron Ward is likely on the “to be cut” list, as he’s been terrible this season. Guys like Whitney and Brind’Amour are also expected to go. Expect the sell-off to start any day now.
I’ll go watch. Not surprised. Perfect guy to get the honor. He’s been on fire since Christmas. GWG in OT Saturday was a great way to start the year.
Gleason for the "C" :
Just what do we need to do to make this happen?
by hockeymomof2 on Jan 9, 2010 10:54 AM EST up reply actions
To be honest, we probably didn’t deserve to win this game. We played sloppy and the Avs had a few prime chances that they didn’t capitalize on. I’ll take the win because we have had games that we deserved to win and didn’t.
by PackPride17 on Jan 9, 2010 10:35 AM EST via mobile reply actions
I would have loved to get Cam the shutout, but in the end it’s a win against a fairly good team. I thought A.Ward (who was a +1) and Rod both had decent (even borderline good) games. Matty played really well also.
On one hand, I’m proud of the team grit they showed in the first period, but on the other hand, their discipline needs to be a little better. Even taking away the fighting majors, we had far too many penalties (7 minors in the first IIRC). They can’t expect to do that on a nightly basis and still compete.
Hopefully Ruu’s injury isn’t as bad as we’ve been led to believe.
"This guy is as meat and potatoes as there is of a man."
Gleason for Emperor!
Aaron Ward and Brind'Amour
I too thought Aaron Ward had perhaps his best game of the season. Brind’Amour is playing better; but honestly I can’t believe he would be on the team but for his contract and his past history with the team. Obviously, he can only play as well as his body and mind will let him at this point. I did hear that he was helping Samson and the Albany Rats and was mentoring them. It speaks very well of Brind’Amour the person and the team captain.
Any more word on Ruutu’s injury other than that it is not his hand and is not day-to-day?
The thing that struck me was the energy of the kids letting it all hang out and they really seemed to be having fun. Haven’t seen a lot of that this year from our team. They were Living the Dream and no one was going to rain on their parade. The forechecking and attack bottling up the Avs in their own end in the 3rd, and commitment and hustle denying them in our zone despite some intense action was incredible to watch.
And I still say the Ruutu fight did a lot more for the Canes bench than it accomplished for the Avs.
If Staal isn’t back for the 5pm game Sunday, I wonder if Sammy will play or they’ll be buying another plane ticket from Albany. I could see Eric just meeting the team in Toronto on Tuesday.
Gleason for the "C" :
Just what do we need to do to make this happen?
by hockeymomof2 on Jan 9, 2010 11:00 AM EST up reply actions
Agreed HM. Their energy helped a lot on the back-to-back. There’s a lot to be said for youthful enthusiasm and young legs. And I am pleased to say that I think some of that carried over to the older guys. Cullen had tons of jump, Ray was on fire, heck even A.Ward and Rod had some really good moments.
Also, I’m becoming more and more impressed with TKO with every game he plays (despite the horribly dull interviews and lack of fighting skills). He’s making a case to stay in Raleigh next year.
"This guy is as meat and potatoes as there is of a man."
Gleason for Emperor!
TKO -- for me he is part of the core team
From my perspective TKO is part of the new Hurricanes’ core team. He brings up the battle level and has more skating skill than I had thought when I first read about the Hurricanes signing him. TKO has shown he will crash the nets and will battle for pucks. He is on a scoring tear as well.
The Albany Rats are adding energy, speed, toughness, and skill to the team. It was great seeing them attack the puck and refuse to give up on any battle in the corners. Boychuk seems like he is ready to break out any minute and to become a scoring threat every time he touches the puck. He has great vision and very fast hands. If he can play with somebody who can slash through the slot with authority, he can get the puck to their stick.
Samson and Sutter ought to give the entire team lessons in power skating and in strength on their skates. Samson really surprised the AVs as they tried to knock him down behind the net and he would not fall. It was a thing of beauty.
I hadn’t previously considered TKO as part of the “core team” but it’s looking more and more as if that’s the case with every passing game. He goes about things quietly, but I can’t point to a game and say with any certainty that he was “bad” which is far more than you can say for a lot of the team. The past two games he has been very very good.
I was hugely impressed with Samson last night (this was my first time seeing him play). I know exactly which play you’re talking about behind the net and that alone is reason enough to be pleased with him.
"This guy is as meat and potatoes as there is of a man."
Gleason for Emperor!
I thought that in the past the Hurricanes almost surely led the NHL in being knocked to the ice while in possession of the puck. Samson’s willingness to attack the puck and keep possession really helps the team. Sutter also has great balance and is hard to knock down when he has the puck.
Some key veterans seem to fall down when they have the puck and the RBC HVAC kicks on.
Definitely saw some spark in #17 and #18 with Samson there in the mix. They must have gotten such a kick out of him and helped them remember when this game was as thrilling for them.
Gleason for the "C" :
Just what do we need to do to make this happen?
by hockeymomof2 on Jan 9, 2010 11:39 AM EST up reply actions
Good news for him. Thanks for the link.
Gleason for the "C" :
Just what do we need to do to make this happen?
by hockeymomof2 on Jan 9, 2010 11:03 AM EST up reply actions
I wasn’t there last night but I’m going Sunday. Really hope to see Samson. To repeat myself, he’s the best looking midseason call-up I’ve ever seen for the ’Canes.
I also like TK’s game, but man his fighting skills are pathetic. Points for trying, but somebody(Walker?) needs to tell him to stop trying and just play hockey.
Alright Bob, what did Cam say to Ray at the very beginning of that interview?
"This guy is as meat and potatoes as there is of a man."
Gleason for Emperor!
Ward was having a “Whitney moment”, and was making a face behind the interview for just a second. I tried to capture the moment, but missed it. :-(
GM of CanesCountry.com
By any chance, dId you see Ward’s comments on “the Cobra” when he was talking with Forslund/Tracy last night yet? You ever heard mention of this “Cobra” before?
Gleason for the "C" :
Just what do we need to do to make this happen?
by hockeymomof2 on Jan 9, 2010 12:14 PM EST up reply actions
From what I was able to hear of the interview, Cam was referring to his goalie stick and stick checking a la a cobra striking. Mrs. S. said he even Cobra" on his stick.
If it's Gleason, it has to be good.
Tripp asked him about a specific poke check (save) when things were dicey in the third and Cam just smiled mischievously and said “we call that the Cobra”.
Tripp took that and ran with it (as only he can, having played the position and being the goober he is) and Cam was willing (and happy enough) to play along.
At the end Tripp asked “Does that Cobra have any venom in it?” Cam, nodded, grinning, “Tonight, it did.”
It was very funny and way beyond the standard cliches I’ve come to expect from #30.
Gleason for the "C" :
Just what do we need to do to make this happen?
One day…. When I am more experienced with my snakes… I hope to own a cobra…
I’m just saying….
by Mateos_Canes_Lamp on Jan 9, 2010 1:39 PM EST up reply actions
Beat like a rented Cole
“Beat like a rented mule” is an oft used expression in hockey rinks across Canada. Not exactly original. Any word from you insiders as to when Staal might come back or Cole might suit up?
Per Chip's tweets:
Cole’s skating in a non contact jersey today. As is Corvo. LaRose skated before practice.
I believe services for Staal’s sister-in-law are today so I wouldn’t be too terribly surprised if he didn’t come back for the game tomorrow night.
"This guy is as meat and potatoes as there is of a man."
Gleason for Emperor!
Samy also in no-contact jersey. I agree Staal will stay in Thunder Bay tomorrow. I said elsewhere it would make sense that he meet up with the team in Toronto Tuesday.
Gleason for the "C" :
Just what do we need to do to make this happen?
by hockeymomof2 on Jan 9, 2010 12:15 PM EST up reply actions
Thanks HM-I knew I was forgetting someone. Also the Finns + A.Ward aren’t at practice. Boychuk has apparently changed numbers?
And yes, I do think you’re right about Staal staying the extra day.
"This guy is as meat and potatoes as there is of a man."
Gleason for Emperor!
Seems to me there must be a reason. I can’t see Boychuk as a “rock star” who demands M&Ms, with all the brown M&Ms removed. In my best scenario, they have decided in the organization that he is staying the remainder of the year and they asked him what number he wanted. Could be they wanted him incognito. Nobody will recognize him as #23 and he will have the element of surprise.
Some more information on Staal's return:
Carolina Hurricanes Maurice also says that Staal could possibly return from personal leave tomorrow. If not, another recall from Albany needed.
8 minutes ago
"This guy is as meat and potatoes as there is of a man."
Gleason for Emperor!
It’s probably just an equipment thing and nothing more, as he’s worn #23 previously. You find that a lot during practices over at the RecZone. He was wearing Ray Whitney’s gloves at practice the other day. He’s still listed as #11 on the roster.
SISU
You’re very right on his wearing Canes jersey #23 (great memory girlfriend!)
Gleason for the "C" :
Just what do we need to do to make this happen?
Yeah, he wore #23 when he was called up for 2 games last season.
Guess it’s a good thing he didn’t have the helmet he was wearing last year in the AHL. That would be #15. Just more rumor fodder.
SISU
by LTD on Jan 9, 2010 1:16 PM EST up reply actions
Go figure
Per twitter:
ice_chip: By way, Boychuk will still wear No. 11. Just using his old helmet today.
SISU
by LTD on Jan 9, 2010 1:43 PM EST up reply actions
He doesn’t realize the maelstrom of trade rumors that started?
Can’t you see it on Ecklund?
E4: Direct from the Canes Beat reporter. Best guess is the deal will be announced Monday. Still getting equipment straightened out: Yep a big one: Cullen for J Staal.
Gleason for the "C" :
Just what do we need to do to make this happen?
Chip just confirmed he’s just wearing it for practice purposes.
"This guy is as meat and potatoes as there is of a man."
Gleason for Emperor!
I tweeted: @Ice_Chip They do not shoot free throws in hockey….
I know I was being a jerk…. But that was yesterday….
And I still think it’s funny….
by Mateos_Canes_Lamp on Jan 9, 2010 1:52 PM EST up reply actions
And you wonder why he doesn’t answer your questions?
"This guy is as meat and potatoes as there is of a man."
Gleason for Emperor!
He doesn’t answer ANYONES questions!!!
And what is your twitter handle?
by Mateos_Canes_Lamp on Jan 9, 2010 2:06 PM EST up reply actions
caniacgirl3016 (creative I know)
I think your snarky remarks directed at the Chipster have ruined it for everyone.
"This guy is as meat and potatoes as there is of a man."
Gleason for Emperor!
Noooooo…. I think he just doesn’t care…..
by Mateos_Canes_Lamp on Jan 9, 2010 2:54 PM EST up reply actions
Ruutu -- any more word on nature of injury?
I hope it is truly only a couple of weeks and that Ruutu can represent Finland in the Olympics. I am also hoping Jokinen will be added. To me, Finland is a team that could grab gold if their goalkeeper gets hot.
Branecky blogged but didn’t really add any new news. I’m guessing we won’t hear much more than this for a while. A “couple” of weeks is better than 5 which is the countdown to Vancouver.
SISU
by LTD on Jan 9, 2010 1:08 PM EST up reply actions
The more I think about what I saw in the fight yesterday, Ruutu’s reaction coming to the bench, the rush to the hospital, the denial of a hand injury, and the couple of weeks, I am guessing he has a boxer’s wrist injury. If so, unless it takes more than a couple of weeks, it isn’t a fractured bone. All speculation and guesswork on my part.
Canadians score fight as draw.
Watching Leafs highlights on Rogers Net last night ,they went to league round up, started off with the hit in Denver then showed fight and proclaimed Ruutu hung on for a draw, strange that.
This wasn't a draw
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uRiLdkOI-KA
Isn’t there a third Ruutu out there for Tucker next?
The View from 324 (post video review)
Ward – welcome back…saved the game for a team that can somehow only muster 20 shots on the opposition’s goal in support…shame we couldn’t get him the shutout.
Ruutu – proud to have him as a Cane…viewed the fight slo-mo and frame-by-frame in TV review today and can’t spot a facial injury…he caught a good lick near the temple/eye area, but no abrasions apparent…so either re-injured a shoulder/wrist from swinging so hard, or we have a possible concussion…if there was a hospital run, then perhaps a fight-induced re-injury that needed scans for assessment (?)
Whitney – was on fire…shame we couldn’t get him the hattie, but hope every contending team fan base is now lusting to add him to their mix.
Cullen – solid…he’ll be missed if not re-signed, but I’m for moving on regardless.
A. Ward – not bad…this is much more what we bargained for when we picked you up.
Brind’Amour – painful to watch in “isolation cam” mode…very slow with little acceleration…glides from spot to spot…still has the hands, but no legs to match…secondary assist was shoveling the puck past a defender to Cullen where all work towards Whitney’s goal really began.
Summary – a very entertaining game to watch….which is what we want.
Great summary. Ruutu sounding more and more like a wrist injury. Did the slow motion show him holding his hand out but not grabbing it as he left? That was my recollection.
Went back to look again, and camera followed Darcy to the penalty box and then cut to video of the boarding incident instead of showing Ruutu leaving the ice.
Just as the camera tightened up on Darcy it looked like Ruutu MIGHT have been reaching across for his right wrist with his left hand, but that easily could have been some innocent motion. There was no pained expression on his face. So, inconclusive.
I was sitting across from the bench in Section 117 and actually followed him off the ice with my camera. He wasn’t clutching his right arm, it was hanging kind of limply at his side. That, coupled by some Sherlock Holmes-like interpretation of John Forslund’s comments last night about perhaps something in his upper body “popping” (his exact word) as he hit the ice and a mention about his lingering injuries lead me to believe it’s his shoulder.
SISU
by LTD on Jan 9, 2010 7:40 PM EST up reply actions
Of course, pure SPECULATION on my part, nothing else.
SISU
by LTD on Jan 9, 2010 7:43 PM EST up reply actions
What was up with Joni P?
He looked completely flat.
If his name was “A Ward”, I think many here would be calling for him to be removed physically from this planet.
Happerry Chrisolkwanaka
Pitkanen
I thought Pitkanen played well; but had some mistakes. Pitkanen is the kind of player who pushes the envelop and sometimes that winds up with things like passes not making it through or with him being caught in too low. Really, if Aaron Ward on his best day could be 75% of Pitkanen on his worst day, we would all be satisfied.
Pitkanen Stats:
For what it is worth Pitkanen had 26:21 of time on ice with (1) penalty, (2) 2 hits, (3) 2 blocked shots; (4) 1 takeaway; (5) 1 blocked shots and (6) 0 giveaways. I thought he was very solid last night; although I wouldn’t consider it his best game by any means.
Add 25:30 TOI from the night before (leading both teams…again), even +/- for both nights, and he did a good two night’s worth of work.
Was a bit of a physical game for his tastes, no doubt, but thought he held his own. He’s sneaky physical when he wants to be and pretty good at drawing penalties with his maddening blank-look “staredown” (?). :-D
It’s more of blank-look “how did I get here and why are you shoving me?” (almost like a deer in the headlights) kind of thing IMO. But it’s definitely frustrating and I’m just watching! I can’t imagine how the opponent feels. LOL
"This guy is as meat and potatoes as there is of a man."
Gleason for Emperor!
Potential Lines with Ruutu Out
Here are some potential lines. It is hard to guess because it is not known whether Eric Staal will return tomorrow. Here are some variations:
Ray Whitney Brandon Sutter Eric Staal
Zach Boychuk Matt Cullen Jussi Jokinen
Jiri Tlusty Pat Dwyer Tom Kostopoulos
Rod Brind’Amour Stephane Yelle Jerome Samson
Ray Whitney Brandon Sutter Eric Staal
Zach Boychuk Matt Cullen Jussi Jokinen
Jerome Samson Pat Dwyer Jiri Tlusty
Rod Brind’Amour Stephane Yelle Tom Kostopoulos
Ray Whitney Brandon Sutter Zach Boychuk
Jussi Jokinen Matt Cullen JiriTlusty
Jerome Samson Pat Dwyer Tom Kostopoulos
Rod Brind’Amour Stephane Yelle Drayson Bowman
Staal Expected Back
Just Twittered that Staal is expected back and no call-ups expected.
Puckdrops and Carolina Hurricanes among others.
Drayson Bowman (OT)
I started watching some of the video hightlights of the Albany Rats, and Drayson Bowman is really impressive. As a result, I went to youtube to check out Bowman’s hockey videos. He has a lethal shot and interestingly has plenty of speed. He is a natural scorer, I think.
Here’s the link:
http://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=drayson+bowman+hockey&search_type=&aq=f
Bowman has really stepped up in Albany with all of the leading scorers being called up with a goal in each of the past 2 games and a shootout winner. He was injured most of the year but looks back to being 100% and it is apparent that with a little more work he might grow into a solid top-6 NHL winger. If he keeps playing this well he might even be the extra little sweetener to push a more significant trade though.
I’ve read other teams are interested in Bowman. What I understand, and I could be wrong, is the the Hurricanes think Bowman and Dalpe are diamonds in the rough who will be major contributors to the team as long as they are nurtured and given whatever time they need. From watching Bowman’s improvement even with the injuries and judging by his “must win” attitude (which is like Sutter, Ruutu, and Boychuk), I would be surprised if the Hurricanes trade Bowman or Dalpe or any of the Albany Rats presently at Carolina. My take is Rutherford thinks he can build a top six team long-term with the talent, one high draft choice, and (I am guessing) one more signing for a top tier defenseman.
I read that Boston is interested in obtaining Whitney as a rental player; and perhaps with a draft choice and one of their top power forward prospects, Whitney could take a shot at another Stanley Cup while providing the Hurricanes with some of their needs. I assume Whitney will re-sign with Carolina and will finish out his career here. I think, too, he will wind up as a Hurricanes head coach some time in the future.
I have thought from the beginning of this year that Bowman could turn out to be a diamond in the rough for us long-term. He has a sniper’s shot and is a natural goal scorer and I would guess that other teams are interested in him which is why I listed him as a potential sweetener. I wouldn’t give him up for nothing, but as you said we could use a top-4 D or another high pick.
I was actually thinking of Boston when I said that, in reference to possibly picking up their first round pick (As they already have Toronto’s) or someone like Blake Wheeler who is a long-term solution. They could definitely use someone like Cullen/Whitney/Corvo… Possibly even Aaron Ward if they want to shore up their defenses for cheap using a guy they already know. It would be a pipe dream, but it would be great if we could trade them Whitney, Corvo, Bowman, and our 2nd rounder for Toronto’s first round pick.
Staal expected back today
Canes tweeted that Staal is expected back for tonight’s game, so no one will be called up to replace Ruuty.
SISU
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