Brodeur Blanks Carolina: Devils 4, Hurricanes 0
by Bob Wage on Apr 3, 2010 10:07 PM EDT
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PrintIt was fan appreciation night in Raleigh but the outcome was not what Caniacs had hoped for as the New Jersey Devils dominated the Carolina Hurricanes, 4-0 on Saturday night in front of 16,073 at the RBC.
The Devils jumped on the home team right away and took a 2-0 lead in the first period. After a scoreless second, Jersey scored again in the third because of the hustle of Zach Parise, then added an empty netter to close the scoring.
Martin Brodeur was not pressured much during the game, but made the saves he needed to make to secure the shutout and add to his all time NHL leading total.
Not surprisingly, the Carolina dressingroom was quiet after the game. The loss, along with the Boston win, means that the Hurricanes have officially been eliminated from post season play.
In the post game press conference, coach Paul Maurice said that his team was "gassed". That is understandable after playing a week on the road, but the Canes had Friday off and did not even have to practice. The Devils lost in overtime in Chicago the night before and had to travel to Raleigh.
If either team should use the excuse of being gassed, it might be the visitors. Yet, New Jersey had the step on the Hurricanes all night long.
The Hurricanes got the first powerplay of the game when Brandon Sutter drew a call while using his newly patented power move to the goal. But the ensuing powerplay was ineffective. The Devils would score on their first powerplay attempt and it went downhill from there for Carolina.
The Canes have now lost 5 of their last 7 at home and have been shutout their last three Saturday home games by the same, 4-0 scores. (Phoenix, Atlanta, New Jersey).
Next on the schedule is a trip to Tampa Bay for a game against the Lightning on Tuesday night.
Game Notes:
- Drayson Bowman had a team high 5 hits. The Canes were given credit for 36 for the game. Bowman is not normally known for being physical, but is trying to earn his way on the team anyway he can. I spoke with him about that and will have another article out soon.
- Jamie McBain and Brandon Sutter led the team with 3 blocked shots each.
- After two slow periods with only 7 shots each period, the Canes mustered up 12 shots near the end for a game total of 26. Eric Staal had a team high 4.
- Carolina only won 39% of their faceoffs. Staal was a team low 6-22 for 21%.
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The complete lack of hustle, and heart in these must win games is just baffling… We know who has the C, but could someone please tell me who the leader on this team is…Mr Rutherford all I want for Christmas is some good off season decisions!!
Watching the game, it looked like JR had already gone down and given them an “importance of a good Draft Pick” speech. Whitney looks like he already had some juicy vacation plans on his mind.
Maybe the good off-season decision can be to Draft a top-5 guy that can come in and add a little spark to the team immediately next year.
Better Days Ahead
It was a very, very quiet night at the RBC. I thought the younger players showed heart to the bitter end. Sutter again was the best forward for the Hurricanes. Boychuk forced the defense to take a penalty; but the power play for the Hurricanes has gone on vacation. Bowman was moved to the first line and really was pounding the net.
The difference between the talent on the ice now and the talent at the start of the season is night and day. Tonight’s loss helps the Hurricanes secure a better draft position; and the lackluster play by some of the veterans simply reinforced the conclusion that roster spots should be open to the most committed and most talented players.
I don’t know if it was the tail wagging the dog, but I was as mentally checked out of that game tonight as I’ve ever been at the RBC Center.
Phoblographer and Finn Aficionado
SISU
Same here LTD. I think the crowd wanted to cheer, but they gave us absolutely nothing to cheer about. I had more fun playing with the little kids sitting in front of me than I did in large sections of the actual game.
"What Carolina really has going for them is Brandon Sutter. When that kid first showed up, he looked like a skinny little thing that wouldn’t last two weeks. But he’s turned into a real star."
Sigh...
I don’t know which to be more of..Disappointed or Ticked Off ?
I am disappointed that it seems that for what ever reason that the canes did poor it on and came hard with 8.5 mins to go in the 3rd period and played like their & their families lives were at stake..And i am so ticked off that aside from a few players …who consistantly did try but it was like spitting on a forest fire again until 8-9 mins to go in the 3rd period…then Everyone who seemed or skated like they were asleep woke up…NJ lost last night and were upset…but the canes could have played the spoiler yet again…but it was NJ who sadly jumped on their backsides like the canes were a nothing more than a cheap…street walker…Yes AD there are beter days ahead…but if i was some of the gang from the rat pack…I’d be looking long and hard to see who wasn’t there for me or the rest of the team…John & Tripp for the first 2 periods kept extoling the efforts of NJ…and they held FOX Sports logos on their mics too…bah Humbug !!
" Chadness" is contagious ! Go Canes !!
Hell the
Checkers played better than the canes did as they beat florida 3-1…
" Chadness" is contagious ! Go Canes !!
Cool – I know (sort of) their new goalie! Garrett Zemlak is the nephew of a mom of one of of my sons’ teammates (follow that?) who I hang with at the rink. Our sons are regular D-pairings at the squirt games. Great family! Garrett is just coming out of the WHL and signed first pro contract this week.
Olympian Tim Gleason in Vancouver: "I don’t care what anybody says, to watch an exciting hockey game, there’s nothing like it."
by Carolyn Christians on Apr 3, 2010 10:36 PM EDT up reply actions
Sorry to rain on your Checkers parade Steve, but the Checkers(ECHL) aren’t our team yet. Currently they are the property of the Rangers. Technically you should be pulling for the Florida (Everblades) due to the fact that they are the Canes ECHL affiliate. By those accounts, that score isn’t good for us. But I do see your point.. if they were the Checkers of next season.
Let the new era of Hurricanes hockey.... begin!
by 3yrsnoplayoffs? on Apr 4, 2010 3:27 AM EDT up reply actions
Anyone hear Forslund and Mike M on 99.9 about 20 mins ago? Someone called in, and said, as a huge Eric Staal fan,he was pretty disappointed with Staal for the season. Both Mike and John explored this pretty well and were surprisingly frank that Staal does not bring the consistency that he should for his role on the C and his salary. John says that he will get it, but in saying so indicated that Staal doesn’t quite “get it” yet. Wish I could post the replay.
Olympian Tim Gleason in Vancouver: "I don’t care what anybody says, to watch an exciting hockey game, there’s nothing like it."
by Carolyn Christians on Apr 3, 2010 10:34 PM EDT reply actions
Wow I can’t believe Forslund went “on the record” about something like that.
"What Carolina really has going for them is Brandon Sutter. When that kid first showed up, he looked like a skinny little thing that wouldn’t last two weeks. But he’s turned into a real star."
It was pretty stunning to hear.
Olympian Tim Gleason in Vancouver: "I don’t care what anybody says, to watch an exciting hockey game, there’s nothing like it."
by Carolyn Christians on Apr 3, 2010 10:38 PM EDT up reply actions
And to really
Rub it in folks the Rats won their final game of the regulae season 4-2 over the Phantoms…I think their first round oponents will be rthe W/B-S Pens…
" Chadness" is contagious ! Go Canes !!
It was stunning to read so it’s probably a good thing I didn’t hear it-I may have driven right off the road.
"What Carolina really has going for them is Brandon Sutter. When that kid first showed up, he looked like a skinny little thing that wouldn’t last two weeks. But he’s turned into a real star."
He compared him unfavorably to Zach Parise – and Mike M brought up a (less than kind) comparison to Jordan Staal which Forslund agreed with.
He went so far as saying Eric has perhaps had it too easy with so much skill and as the oldest son who always was the first and best in the family. Jordan has always had to work harder to prove himself. This was not a quick analysis, they really dwelled on it more than I would have expected.
He also said if Gleason gets the A and leads the D next year, NO ONE will worry whether he’ll show up and be an impact player every moment he’s on the ice. Again, implying Staal disappears, the way many of us like to whine about.
Olympian Tim Gleason in Vancouver: "I don’t care what anybody says, to watch an exciting hockey game, there’s nothing like it."
by Carolyn Christians on Apr 3, 2010 10:42 PM EDT up reply actions
My hockey gods, it’s like Forslund was reading my mind. I’m kind of glad to know that people beyond just fans are seeing this.
"What Carolina really has going for them is Brandon Sutter. When that kid first showed up, he looked like a skinny little thing that wouldn’t last two weeks. But he’s turned into a real star."
Staal’s No Trade Clause kicks in July 1, 2010… Just saying.
I’m sure management has seen the exact same thing we have. Staal simply hasn’t put up a $8.25 million dollar performance this year, not even close. Jussi and Sutter have both out-shown him in my opinion at a fraction of the Salary. I’d love to see an $8 million dollar player emerge out of Staal, if he played with a lot more intensity (Sutter is a good example) he certainly has the natural talent to be be worth that. He has shown patches of brilliance but he needs a lot more consistency.
I heard it. Forslund is good at providing criticism but in a constructive manner. Consistency is definitely an issue. Wondered if being the “oldest sibling” had something to do with it, since he was the first to succeed in a long list of successes. Wondered if perhaps things had been a little too easy for him up until now. Said he most definitely needs to figure out how to dig deep and get himself committed every game. I’m paraphrasing but that’s how I heard it.
Phoblographer and Finn Aficionado
SISU
by Jamie Kellner on Apr 3, 2010 10:40 PM EDT up reply actions
Well said – he was very tactful, but he didn’t shy away from indicating he was disappointed. He also expressed confidence, certainty even, that Eric will rise to the task and the role.
Olympian Tim Gleason in Vancouver: "I don’t care what anybody says, to watch an exciting hockey game, there’s nothing like it."
by Carolyn Christians on Apr 3, 2010 10:44 PM EDT up reply actions
Staal and Forslund
I probably am less of a fan of Forslund that most here at CC. It is obvious to me that Staal is injured. It is equally obvious that Staal needs another elite talent on his line to be effective. I noticed immediately once Bowman/Staal/Cole were on the line together that Staal was skating better. Staal is not a one man show and against well-coached teams, he is not built to be a dominating player by himself. Staal desperately needs to have a big, fast, scoring threat on his line to create synergy. Cole has speed and size; but he really doesn’t have the hands or vision on the ice to be dominating scoring threat. In short, until Staal gets the talent he needs on his line to succeed, he will remain inconsistent. Once he gets another franchise wing on his line, suddenly he will seem to be that player we all want him to be. The more I hear Forslund expound on the nuances of the Hurricanes, the less profound I find him to be. I find him sincere, glib, and well-meaning; but neither deep thinking or particularly insightful.
I’m not sure I could disagree with you more if I tried A.Dog. I have always found John to be a very insightful source on the Hurricanes; far more insightful than many of the other play-by-play announcers in the league. He knows that team better than almost anyone and that comes across in his commentary.
"What Carolina really has going for them is Brandon Sutter. When that kid first showed up, he looked like a skinny little thing that wouldn’t last two weeks. But he’s turned into a real star."
Injuries don’t magically disappear when you go to the Olympics or during 10 games when you are named captain. Staal has an issue with consistency, if he plans to be worth $8+ million dollars for the next 6 years then he needs to seriously work on that.
Staal and Consistency
I would respectfully point out that Staal was on a line with Crosby and Iginla; and in that cast of talent, he shone. In my view, your observation is accurate that Staal was much more dominating in the Olympics; and I think the reason is Staal is a player who cannot be a one man show. Ovechkin and any two forwards from the AHL all-star team is a top NHL line. Malkin and any two forwards from the AHL all-star team is also a top NHL line. As I see it, Staal is an all-star; but his talent is magnified when he has another big, fast, talented forward who creates space for him. I am hoping against hope that Jim Rutherford is seeing what I am seeing and that he acts upon it at the draft or with a trade.
See, the way we read that performance, AD, is that it’s a prime example of the fact that he can play like that when he wants to play like that.
It has nothing to do with the level of talent on his wings, or who his center is if he’s on the wing. It has to do with his internal motivation.
Sure, he gets up for the big games (whenever he determines they’re big games, that is). But, there’s just no consistent effort when he views that he’s not in a “big game”.
To think he’s some kind of victim who’s being robbed of a chance to show just what he can do…well, sorry, I’m not buying that “explanation” of his spotty performances.
Again, it is a matter upon which very reasonable minds can differ. From my perspective, I was the same point guard; however, when I was playing with a center who was dominating and ultimately when to the NBA, I could put passes into hands like a magician. When I had to play the next year with a center who had glass hands, those same passes looked like I was just dazed and confused. In a team sport, only a few players are so fantastic that it really doesn’t matter with whom they play. For many gifted athletes, they need to have other players who can bring out their talent. I don’t view Staal’s situation as a lack of desire or effort. You and others have view it quite differently. The point is that whether it is a lack of personal desire or a need for another forward, the truth is that the Hurricanes rise or fall with the play of Cam Ward and Staal. It would never hurt the situation with Staal to provide him with a big, fast, physical scoring forward.
Unfortunately, like you said… Ovechkin can do it with any 2 wingers. Malkin can do it with any 2 wings. Staal CANNOT do it with any 2 wings, so why is he making the salary of someone who does? There are plenty of Superstars around the league making $2-3 million dollars less than Staal with twice the effort
I love Staal, I think when he is on… you won’t find many better. Unfortunately he has been just plain lazy and completely uninspiring this year. I’d be complaining if he made $6 million, much less $8.25 million. The Canes being an extremely cash-strapped team magnifies the problem 10 fold. We cannot afford to pay him to play like he did this year.
Think of this: Ovechkin doesn’t do it with any 2 players. Usually Washington has a Ovechkin-Backstrom-Semin/Knuble line. Backstrom is one of the premiere set-up men in the NHL, he also can score. Semin is arguable one of the most talent scorers in the world. Knuble, while old, is consistently a 25 to 30 goals/year player. So, if you compare Staal to Ovechkin; then Whitney is Staal’s Backstrom, Jussi is Semin, and Cole is Knuble. Take out your feelings; are any of the Canes players even equal to the Capitals?
What I’m saying is opposing teams focus on stopping Staal and Ovechkin. But Ovechkin’s linemates are dangerous themselves. So at times, Ovechkin gets the focus off him – Staal generally doesn’t. Oh yeah, Ovechkin also plays with the best offensive D-Man, Green, in the NHL.
And Malkin, his linemates are not as impressive as Ovie’s. But Malkin is also usually not the focus of opposing teams, that is given to Crosby. So Malkin gets many of his points against teams 2nd lines and on the PP, when he is teamed with a top 2 player in the world and one of the better PP D-Men in Gonchar.
Just think about it and see if the comparisons are fair. For most teams, there is usually another player to take the focus/pressure off the star.
Chicago – Kane/Hossa/Toews
San Jose – Thornton/Heatley/Marleau
Vancouver – H. Sedin/D. Sedin
Philadelphia – Richards/Carter/Briere?
Tampa – Stamkos/LeCavalier/St.Louis
Detriot – Datsyuk/Zetterburg
New Jersey – Parise/Kovalchuk
Anaheim – Getzlaf/Perry
Etc.
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by PackPride17 on Apr 4, 2010 11:57 AM EDT via mobile up reply actions
The unfortunate truth however is we cannot afford another star first line winger like all of those other teams can. So you are saying we should just accept paying Staal $8+ million a year to play like a marginal player because he doesn’t have a superstar to help him?
To me Jussi and Sutter have both fully outplayed Staal this year. I don’t see them complaining about not having Kovalchuk or Heatley on their wings. If I had no idea about salaries and watched every game this season, I would guess Staal made less than a number of players on the team. I don’t think that is acceptable and I don’t believe the excuses.
You were comparing Staal to other top players. What I was pointing out was that the players you were comparing him to have other options. I am not disagreeing with anyone that Staal needs to show better effort. What I believe is that the Canes would not be better off without Staal, like it seems you believe.
You are correct that we cannot afford another “star” player. There are other teams that have financial difficulty. Columbus has Nash, but not much else. Where are they; the same place we are. Florida and Atlanta don’t really have money for star players and they haven’t been playoff successful. To have sustained success, this organization has to get to the point of being able to play for multiple players. This is a responsibility of us the fans and the owner.
Maybe trading Staal would be the best way to restart. I don’t believe so, but you and others think so.
P.S. I have never heard Staal complain about his linemates. The only people that I’ve heard do that were fans.
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by PackPride17 on Apr 4, 2010 2:01 PM EDT via mobile up reply actions
Of course the team is better with Staal on it. I simply just want him to give 100% every night which I don’t think he does. I don’t think injuries magically go away in short spurts and during the Olympics. I don’t think bad linemates is an excuse when a Sophomore Brandon Sutter is outworking him and Jussi is leading the teams in points, goals, game-winning goals, ect. Staal has played 11 less games, but he also makes over $6 million dollars more than Jokinen.
A Staal playing 100% is worth way more than any Draft pick with mere untested potential. I was just saying that if Staal doesn’t seriously work on his consistency, then his $7, $8, $9, $9.5+ million dollar contract years down the road are really going to hurt the already cash-strapped Canes.
I think we are in agreement. Staal is my favorite player (I know that’s a shocker to everyone), so obviously I try to defend him. But I have said since I started blogging here that he does need to work on his consistency. All in all, I see everyone’s opinion; I just don’t always agree how some players I feel are given a pass and others are not. To maximize any players true potential, they must be paired with complimentary players. And I feel our coaching staff does a poor job of pairing appropriate lines.
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by PackPride17 on Apr 4, 2010 2:27 PM EDT via mobile up reply actions
Coaching is the first thing that needs to be fixed. I’d much rather see JD up here than Maurice. Of course Staal will never be truly great with the likes of Cole or Whitney… That is why it is probably in the best interest of the organization to let Whitney walk and try anything to trade Cole then get a legitimate first line Winger. Then Draft Hall/Seguin/Connolly and you have a powerhouse first line. I’d love to see it but I have been hoping for years they would do it and the only thing we have gotten is… Cole.
I think a 1st line of Nino/Connolly-Staal-Jokinen would be a very good one. Obviously, Nino currently has more size, but I’m not sure he will truely develop into a 1st liner. Connolly has the skill and determination, but he still needs to add a little weight and injuries are a concern. I think Nino fits the organizations style more than Connolly, but that might be the problem. Maybe they should go for the more talented player than the grittier one.
I do believe the organzation would be better served trading Cole, Samsonov, and having Brind’amour retire. But this is only my opinion and I have no idea what direction JR will take.
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by PackPride17 on Apr 4, 2010 4:23 PM EDT via mobile up reply actions
PackPride17
Many many fans here and elsewhere see & know Staal well enough to see that either
A: the man is or has been playing hurt( as many players in amny sports do near the end of a regular season stint)
B: his playing since the olympics has been “marginal” …now whay that is we all can speculate out of our bootuies all week…but he knows & the canes bench knows whatas wrong if anything
But it is we,the fans who are making major assists in helping PAY for what ever salary he is getting…and as you know we fans as consumers do expect value for what we pay.and thus far…many fans here see or feel no value…you points sir are valid…but so are others as well…enjoy the rest of this week…
" Chadness" is contagious ! Go Canes !!
caniacsteve
I understand that we all pay part of his salary. And if people feel they are not getting what they are paying for, then they have the right to say what they feel. But so do I! I mentioned that I do think Staal is overpaid, but so are a number of other players.
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by PackPride17 on Apr 5, 2010 11:30 AM EDT via mobile up reply actions
the truth is that the Hurricanes rise or fall with the play of Cam Ward and Staal.
Then I guess with Wardo’s bad back and Staals inconsistent play we should be prepared for many more years of no playoffs….It would never hurt the situation with Staal…. wouldn’t hurt to trade him and bring in some REGULARLY MOTIVATED talent, just think of the money we could save, and have to spend.
Yeah, there are probably 20 other guys I’d rather have over Staal simply because they give an equal or greater effort, put up equal or greater points, and make millions less. A few good examples:
Ryan Getzlaf – $5.35 million a year
Corey Perry – $5.35 million a year
Jerome Iginla – $7 million a year
Patrick Kane – $6.3 million a year
Jonathan Toews – $6.3 million a year
Pavel Datsyuk – $6.7 million a year
Mike Richards – $5.75 million a year
One common theme with all these players....
They have another elite forward to play with. Also let’s not confuse salary with cap hit. The above numbers are cap hits. Staal’s cap it is large around $8 million, but he will not earn over $8 million till the 12/13 season. Coincidently, Richards will also earn over $8 million that season.
Let’s not discount the fact that JR has to give players more money to stay here, and he is to ethical to draw up a questionable contract like some of his peers have done, ie Pronger, Hossa deals.
Take any one of those players listed above and put them on the same team as Staal and both players numbers will increase.
Don’t get me wrong, this has been a forgettable year for Staal. Hopefully, after the season, he will be able to objectively look at his season’s performance and use it to motivate him for 10/11. I do think there is some merit to the “oldest child” theory. Younger children are almost always more competitive.
"He has all the virtues I dislike, and none of the vices I admire." -Sir Winston Churchill
by SouthernHockeyFan on Apr 4, 2010 11:42 AM EDT up reply actions
Cap hits are just averages over the whole contract… That is a 2 edged-sword. Yeah, this year he made $6 million. He might very well have earned that salary this year. In 2013-2016 he will be making $9.25-9.5 million dollars a season. If he has a season like this one during those years that sounds like a travesty for that price.
I understand the cap hit and what it means. I just get tired of people mis-stating that Staal is making $8 million this year.
Do you blame JR for locking Staal up for the long term with this contract? I would guess that just about every other GM in the league would sign Staal to this deal, even with the year he has had.
Also, I have not seen the “whining” and “pouting” that so many fans claim to see since he was given the C.
"He has all the virtues I dislike, and none of the vices I admire." -Sir Winston Churchill
by SouthernHockeyFan on Apr 4, 2010 6:43 PM EDT up reply actions
I think Staal was given that contract solely on the basis that he had a 45 goal, 100 point Sophomore season. I expect him to play at that level, to give that level of effort night after night. That to me, would be well worth the $8+ million dollars a year average he makes over the next 6 years. If Staal puts up 45 goals and 100 points next year, I’d be very pleasantly surprised.
Let me start off by saying that I believe Staal is overpaid. I think his contract should have been about $7M/season. With that said, you can’t blame him for getting what he could. Athletes careers are usually short (as compared to ours). Also, he signed the contract before the economy collapse. At that time the league was seeing a large jump in the cap hit for a couple of seasons. If it wasn’t for the collapse and the “cheating” contracts, you would probably see more contracts like Staal’s.
I do not believe that Staal’s contract was based solely on the 05/06 season. I see Staal as a 35 to 40 goals and 45 to 50 assists guy. I think he should produce a little over a PPG guy, which he has not been over the past couple of seasons. I think that is what we should expect from him.
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by PackPride17 on Apr 4, 2010 7:20 PM EDT via mobile up reply actions
And it could be worse
Anyone else waiting for a Bolts fan to show up and, with LeCavalier’s $10mil salary for 23 goals in mind, tell us we need to “just grow up and quit complaining about Staal!” Maybe we need to appreciate just how good we have it – it could be so much worse.
Olympian Tim Gleason in Vancouver: "I don’t care what anybody says, to watch an exciting hockey game, there’s nothing like it."
by Carolyn Christians on Apr 5, 2010 12:33 PM EDT up reply actions
Strongly disagree with you on this one.
Forslund has, does, and will see more hockey than most and his assessments, despite being an employee of the org, are pretty darn good.
Beside, this one is as plain as day. Good for John to speak aloud about the Emperor’s fine clothes.
I worried years ago when Jordan Staal was very quick to answer “Eric” when asked who was the biggest couch potato in the family. He’s lazy in his play, circling like a shark, only willing to strike at easy prey, easily discouraged if none are available.
I, like John, believe that someday Eric will ignite. But, it may take an intervention. He’s got to get a sense of history and where he could stand within it to find that next level. With his physical stamina and longevity, he could hold a ton of franchise records.
If we don’t trade him in a blockbuster trade for the #1 or #2 pick and players back in change, that is.
I understand and realize people have different views. Forslund lost much of my respect when he continued gushing over Brind’Amour and Wallin while criticizing players like Staal and Jokinen. At one point, during the season, as I recall, Forslund went into praise mode for Aaron Ward. I will be interested in seeing after the season ends whether Staal has been playing with a bad shoulder/wrist and perhaps an injured groin.
In any event, whatever the cause, it seems to me the problem is inarguable: Staal needs to be more productive. My proposed solution is another franchise forward on his line.
People who have been around the team through the ‘02 Cup run and the Cup run itself have a deep appreciation for what team veterans like Brind’Amour and Wallin did for the team during those years, and take poorly to people dumping on them. I am also one of those people.
We know their abilties have declined. But Staal’s and other’s abilities have not. They had no excuse for such poor performances, so I’m fine with that distinction being made.
Respect John’s hockey opinions or not, what we’re talking about regarding Staal did not just start appearing this season. It’s been a trait that manifested itself early in his pro career here.
I think that is one area where you and I have vastly different perspectives. I too was a fan of the Hurricanes during the 2002 run; and I remember well the excellent play of Brind’Amour. His efforts truly were of heroic proportions.
I don’t view the situation of trying to critique a player’s current abilities as dumping on them. To the contrary, it is a team sport; and every player has to be accountable for his play during the season as fairly and objectively as feasible. It strikes me as extremely odd to overlook the declining skill of Brind’Amour based upon his play five to eight years ago; but then to castigate another player for that players’ play over the course of the 2009-2010 season.
A player’s legacy earns that player the right of respect and appreciation for past efforts. It is not a free pass for inferior play; and does not earn the player the right to immunity from criticism for continuing to play when his abilities no longer merit a roster spot.
I don’t know what’s odd about understanding that some players can no longer perform as they did at their peak and giving them a pass, while also fully understanding that some players can still perform and getting on them for not doing so.
I think the truth is somewhere between both of you. Staal has the ability but obviously needs someone on his wing. However we all see that he does not consistently have the same effort and changes games unlike the true superstars in Ovechkin and Crosby. Sutter has also shown him up for the fact that it is possible to play with a high level of consistency game to game.
I didn’t listen to Forsland last night as I was still suffering from the sheer boredom of the game.
Excuses. When we get someone on Wing and Staal is still pouting, complaining, taking lazy penalties, half-assing it… What then?
Bottom line… If the only players in the whole NHL in your tax bracket are Evgeni Malkin, Alex Ovechkin, and Sidney Crosby… Excuses are out the window. Nut up or Shut up.
When that happens then the discussion can continue. I am not a great fan of Staal but we need to give him someone to play with…and it isn’t Cole.
Like everyone else has noticed, his level of play during the Olympics bore no resemblance to how he played for the Canes apart from in the odd game.
He needs to look at the level of consistency that Rod Brind’Amour brought to the team as captain. He tried every night even the last couple of years when he wasn’t good enough to even be on the ice.
I think if Staal showed a tenth of the intensity and drive that Ovechkin has every single shift… Then he would probably be just as good. He has the talent, but obviously consistency is a huge issue.
He shows great spots of brilliance. In the 5-10 games after being named Captain he was nailing slap-shots into the top corners of the net almost every time. After that it was back to the old Staal, it’s like the allure of the change wore off. Back to slap-shots either right into the goalie’s chest or 2-3 feet wide of the net.
Uncle Ben to Peter Parker, Spider Man (2002): "With great power, comes great responsibility"
I was all for defending Staal till he had that 5-point night right after Christmas in Washington. He was a monster-on-skates – inspiring, fun and gutsy play. I’d never seen anything like it from him and it went on for 60 minutes. (or whatever his TOI was). That game flipped a switch for me and I haven’t been able to get the warm fuzzies back ever since.
That was right before they announced the Vancouver roster. It was too much of coincidence to ignore. His self-congratulatory “I’ve arrived” tone on the all the Triple Gold interviews sealed it for me.
I don’t dispute his ability and when he’s on, he earns every penny of his salary. I don’t think it’s about having a power forward on his wing (look what he accomplished consistently for weeks with Whitney and Jokinen – both about as far from “power forward” as you can get, right? ).
For me, he’s young man who needs to learn how to find the motivation and desire to give 100% on the ice every night. He seems to be a loving, perceptive, generous man, and maybe he isn’t yet comfortable bringing the force required to lead (“show up and make examples of”) the older vets he respects so much.
Now that he’s wearing a C, I need to see he takes responsibility for the team leadership on the bench, even if it means he has to show some tough-love for the vets when they decide to mail it in.
We all saw a bit of the awesome on the this recent roadtrip, and I think everyone here (okay, maybe not Paladin) was willing to give him kudos for it. Let’s not call out the blog out for blaming a poor season on Staal (I think many on the team have gotten hammered from time to time), cause I don’t think that’s the case. But this issue is obvious to EVERYONE. If we aren’t “allowed” to use this forum to sort it out and hear from those who disagree, then we’re missing an opportunity to use the blog at its full potential.
Let’s stay away from epithets like Staal-hater. I don’t think there are any of those here and it’s unnecessarily divisive. I don’t hear anyone calling Staal out for anything but inconsistency of effort – it’s more about disappointment and confusion with the kid’s play on the ice, not disgust or anger.
So frustrating and kind of a mystery as to what goes on between his ears. Like Forslund, I really think it will come with maturity and perhaps the extra long summer, watching Marc (probably) and Jordan (definitely) make a run will help a bit to plant the seed.
Olympian Tim Gleason in Vancouver: "I don’t care what anybody says, to watch an exciting hockey game, there’s nothing like it."
by Carolyn Christians on Apr 4, 2010 11:57 AM EDT up reply actions
Perfectly said HM.
"What Carolina really has going for them is Brandon Sutter. When that kid first showed up, he looked like a skinny little thing that wouldn’t last two weeks. But he’s turned into a real star."
Staal
HM2, I almost always totally agree with your observations; but in this instance, I think I am not totally onboard. I completely agree that Staal has another level of play that he really needs to reach. I also agree that the Whitney/Staal/Jokinen line brought out the best in Staal this season. My take is that either Whitney or Jokinen ought to be on the first line and ideally there would be a speed demon, big forward who can score aligned with Staal. The problem in having both Whitney and Jokinen with Staal is that neither are close to as fast as Staal and therefore Staal can’t gain the offensive zone with the puck at full speed and still have support. Also, neither Jokinen or Whitney can create net presence with a massive frame.
If it were me, I would put Jokinen and Staal together and then find the best fit available from the talent pool at Carolina and at Albany/Charlotte and the draft. If the Hurricanes pick a defenseman as their first round pick, the job of first line wing may well fall to (1) Boychuk — short, but blazingly fast with great vision; (2) Bowman — young, fast, and intense scoring winger who plays with an edge [but is he ready for first line minutes?]; (3) Dalpe — fast, tall, forward with amazing moves and hands [but hasn’t played a minute in the NHL [moving from the AHL to the first line is asking a lot]; (4) Cole — great speed and size, but never the same since his severe neck injury; still has speed and size, but the reckless abandon has never returned following the injury; (5) Ruutu — for some reason he and Staal seem to have very little chemistry; and both seem to be struggling to get in sync with each other; (6) Tlusty — he was drafted with the idea he would be a first line forward; and he has the size and speed and cerebral understanding of the game [has Tlusty’s game matured to the point he can be a first line wing with Staal?]
The best NHL teams have intimidatingly good first lines — Washington, Pittsburgh, Detroit, etc.; but the Hurricanes for whatever underlying reasons still are seeking a first line that plays twenty straight games.
There’s a recurring theme that everytime we talk about Staal’s individual playing traits, the response seems to be, “well, he just doesn’t have the right linemates”.
That may well explain why he’s not hitting 100-point seasons. But, I’m missing the connection as to what this has to do with individual traits, like slow returns to the bench (putting his team down a man until he gets there), personal fouls at critical times, “attitude” with the officials, slow to get up off the ice even if play continues…
Anyway, it’s like I see one person say one thing…and then hear a completely different point being addressed in response.
Am I missing something? Is the point, well why should he try until we can get him an effective winger (which I do agree he needs, no doubt)?
Let me take a stab at answering my own question.
Perhaps the “attacks” on Staal’s individual performances do sometimes focus on his lack of point production.
In those instances, I do agree that he would be a lot more effective with near-equal talent on his wings, including some specific talents like size and speed.
But, I’m so in camp with that theory, that I rarely criticize his lack of production. It’s that lack of visible fire and his floating style that’s driving me nuts.
At a lower salary, I’d be fine with the flaws, just as I am with others at that level. But at the elite level of salary, I do expect an elite level of play.
Staal's Attitude
I have watched enough video of the Hurricanes games to think that it is virtually impossible to deny that Staal has a propensity to take slow returns to the bench, linger after hitting the ice, and on occasion retaliate with really inappropriate fouls. Those instances are well-documented in tapes of games and are purely factual. I think the difference has to do with trying to determine the motive or reason for that behavior.
Determining motive is extremely difficult in any situation, including professional athletes. Some fans have concluded that Staal is self-absorbed and lazy; and those less than stellar personal characteristics are at the heart of Staal’s inability to maintain a personal level of play such as Parise consistency demonstrates. I have a difference assessment of the motive. I am convinced Staal demands perfection of himself and has exceedingly high expectations for his own play. Those high standards make Staal become frustrated and angry at himself and at the situation. Staal then loses his focus on the moment and is lost in thought at the previously occurring play.
I have seen other high tier athletes in other sports face the same psychological hurdles and have the same or equivalent reaction. It is very difficult to coach away a player’s psychological underpinnings. I know if it were me as his coach, I would have a video technician copy every occasion Staal lingered on the ice or took a key penalty out of frustration. I would then have a second video made of Staal when he was playing his elite game. I would watch the video with Staal, Francise, and Staal’s father; and would agree that none of us would discuss the two videos until they were over; but that we would take notes.
At the end of the video sessions, I would ask Staal what he thinks he needs to do to elevate his game. In the end, the reason for trying to get an elite wing for Staal is hopefully to create a situation of synergy where Staal’s competitive streak overcomes his tendencies for perfectionism and overly intense self-criticism. In theory, it would help him stay in the moment.
How the heck can I get you in charge of making this happen! :-D
I’ve been saying for years, that they’re evidently completely under-utlizing the Cup-winning (first NC born name on the Cup?) video editor the team has.
Each player should have an individual file in their format of choice that shows them at their best. Reinforce those visual images of where they are on the ice when they score and how they’re reacting.
And, I’m totally with you on the motivational theory (I’m huge on motivational aspects, myself). It is evident that it is frustration we are seeing.
Just what’s causing the frustration is unclear, but let’s hope for the best and assume for the moment that you’re correct.
If so, then the acquistion of complimentary wingers might indeed improve his attitude, as their collective success would lower the number of those frustration incidents.
So…there might indeed be some linkage, at least under your plausible frustration theory.
And, I do like the intervention suggestion. There needs to be a lot more of those…the subject of soon-to-be off-season posts.
I agree totally with this. I sit close enough on the first level where I can visibly see Staal’s face and 75% of the time it is showing frustration and aggravation.
Of course adding a Star winger to the 1st line would create more points and boost Staal’s confidence. He shouldn’t need that making his kind of money, but possibly in his particular case that would really make him try harder.
My personal quarrel is what happens if we get the chance to draft a Seguin or Hall type player… He meshes great with Staal, they both become 100 point guys. However 3 years down the road we cannot afford to pay our new Star player $7 million a year because we are overpaying Staal for the actual benefit he brings. Then we are forced to trade him, as happened to Boston with Kessel last year.
as happened to Boston with Kessel last year.
And can we get 2 years’ of Toronto’s first round picks for him? Works for me! ;)
I love these kinds of problems.
Olympian Tim Gleason in Vancouver: "I don’t care what anybody says, to watch an exciting hockey game, there’s nothing like it."
by Carolyn Christians on Apr 5, 2010 11:37 AM EDT up reply actions
Hurricanes, Young Talent, and the Salary Cap
For the Hurricanes, as a budget team, the issues of having to re-sign a budding franchise player are likely to resolve themselves over time. The NHL’s salary cap does allow enough space to have Crosby and Malkin or Ovechkin and Backstrom or Thorton and Heatley.
The Hurricanes organization has room to grow its budget to met the salary cap; and certainly having an abundance of young stars and a string of victories will only serve to speed the growth of STHs and attendance. This year was a landmark year in that the fa nbase stuck with the team despite a dismal start to a degree I thought was remarkable. Canes Country, too, deserves tremendous praise in its work as a place for fans to debate passionately various subjects; and to exchange information.
There is not an unlimited amount of time for the Hurricanes STHs and attendance to improve because the young talent will become experienced veterans sooner than we all might imagine. In the meantime, I think the Hurricanes are at a crossroads with this year’s draft; and if it is done successfully, the Hurricanes can and will move into the group of teams that challenge regularly for the Stanley Cup.
Just saying – Washington pays Ovie over $9M a season, will pay $6M next year, and will probably pay Backstrom > $6.5M next year. Pittsburgh also pays Crosby and Malkin $8.7M a season each.
I understand we are more “financially strapped” than those franchises, but its something we are going to have to overcome. To consistently compete with the “big boys,” we are eventually going to have to get to those cap areas. This is going to depend a lot on us the fans.
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by PackPride17 on Apr 5, 2010 3:15 PM EDT via mobile up reply actions
I still don’t really understand why the Staal/Whitney/Jokinen line was broken up. The team was playing it’s best hockey while that line was intact. Cole comes back from injury and Jokinen is demoted to second or third line status when Jussi is leading the team in scoring? Even LaRose gets 1st line minutes for a game or so. What gives? Why break up a good thing, and then stubbornly refuse to go back to it when all of your other “experiments” fail?
I’m sorry, Eric Cole is not a 1st line player in the NHL and has not been, sadly, since his injury in 2006. He somewhat fits the role of “power forward”, and once was considered one of the rising stars at the position, but that was 2 or 3 year and a slew of injuries ago. He is just not there anymore and I don’t see him getting it back.
Jokinen is not a power forward but he seemed to mesh really well with Staal. He and Whitney added savvy and determination to compliment Staal’s raw talent. And while it did not mesh with abramsdoug’s dream of having a power forward on Staal’s wing, I think it resulted in some of the best play we’ve seen out of #12 in a while.
But it seems to me that the coaching staff agrees with the philosophy of pairing Staal with a power forward, even when we do not have one on the roster, to the extent that they would stubbornly break up their best line to do so. Just makes no sense to me whatsoever. And I think it has hurt Staal’s, and the whole team’s, production.
-m
+1
On the coaching staff not matching the best lines.
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by PackPride17 on Apr 4, 2010 2:35 PM EDT via mobile up reply actions
We just have all these pieces that just don’t fit where they’re trying to be crammed right now.
Fourth line full of vets that have no business on a fourth line. No power forward (especially with Ruutu out) to pair with Staal.
Cole sort of gets the field promotion with the org, as you note, seemingly buying into the concept that he needs a power forward. But, you’re right. Cole is no longer (if ever) a first line power forward.
Jokinen was good with Staal, because, heck, Jokinen is good with everyone. I admire his passing skills moreso than even his scoring skills. It’s a real tip of the hat to Sutter that he’s been given Jokinen’s services, and speaks to the org’s expectations for that line.
Then, too, there’s unsettling comments from Mo, like how Cole re-defines the team (when he came off IR), adding a speed dimension…well, my mind probably drifted here, but you get the picture.
Sometimes I think the coaching staff needs to come sit up on press row and watch the game, just as they tell players they need to do when they aren’t seeing the ice the way it needs to be seen.
Agreed on the sentiment about Cole, he belongs on the thrid line.
"He has all the virtues I dislike, and none of the vices I admire." -Sir Winston Churchill
by SouthernHockeyFan on Apr 4, 2010 6:47 PM EDT up reply actions
We were listening
on our way home (unfortunately I heard only part of that call before we passed Apex on the way south and started losing the signal). Frankly I was a little surprised in a good way hearing that exchange. It won’t happen, but putting the C and A’s up for grabs as well as the spots on the team next fall would be just fine with me.
What a pathetic effort. Kudos to the Devils for their solid sterling play tonight, but our guys didn’t give them much to worry about. Down 2-0, where was the big hit? Where was someone going out to pick a fight and get the guys’ blood going? Didn’t Jersey play last night? Weren’t we sitting home resting?
In my mind, we didn’t even get our legs until about 6 minutes were left in the 2nd, and there was precious little pressure until about that much time left in the 3rd. It’s a shame that the loudest the crowd was able to get was for Dancing Granny on the scoreboard.
I suppose the highlight of the night for both Mrs. S and myself was the jerseys afterward. I was able to spot a dashing Tim Gleason and Mrs. S got to see Cam partially disrobe, but (unfortunately for her) from a distance.
"It's better to give than to receive." -Tim Gleason
Well, if he didn't say it he should have.
I love how one miserable loss opens up the floodgates to blame Staal for everything wrong. I do agree that Staal has had a dissappointing season, but everything is not on him. This is a team sport and you must have all people performing to be successful.
Last night Staal was not good, but no one really was. Cam allowed many rebounds and should/could have stopped 2 NJ goals. Everybody’s new hero, Sutter, did not really show up last night. He was a team worst -3 and only had 1 shot on goal. Whitney has been playing like garbage lately. The team just struggled.
I understand blaming Staal, but be fair. Their are other players and coaches that deserve criticism. It seems as if the team loses, Staal gets the majority of blame. I guess it just shows the distain for Eric; he is CC favorite whipping boy.
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by PackPride17 on Apr 4, 2010 10:27 AM EDT via mobile up reply actions
He is the Canes highest paid player, he is our captain, and this certainly is NOT the first time his work ethic has been brought up. His lack of work ethic and him being questioned by the Hurricane faithful seems alot more consistent than his play… Some people just seem not to see what is, and continue their devotion regardless. I guess it just shows the distain for Eric; he is CC favorite whipping boy... wonder why that is.
I understand he is the highest paid Cane, but it is a TEAM game. Was it his fault Joni pinch with Cole on Parise that lead to the 1st goal? Was it his fault that Sutter got out-muscled and Cam left the post on the 3rd goal? Was it his fault that Elias was somewhat only in the middle of the ice on the 2nd goal?
What I’m saying is that is seems that last nights game is being put completely on his shoulders. That is not accurate. There are many reasons the Canes lost the game. He deserves some blame, but not sole responsibility. And like Taylor Hall has been nitpicked to death because he has been good for a long time; Staal gets nitpicked because he is the Canes top player. I feel sorry what everyone will do to Brandon once he has been in the league a few years.
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by PackPride17 on Apr 4, 2010 12:12 PM EDT via mobile up reply actions
Whoa, there. Please show me where anyone has laid last night’s game at Staal’s feet.
Sure it was a collective suckfest. No one, to my knowledge, is saying otherwise.
However, there’s a side discussion going on about Staal’s individual play that is relevant at any point in time, including after a team loss.
I said it seems like people were blaming the loss on Staal. Myabe its because it was in the post game thread.
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by PackPride17 on Apr 4, 2010 12:56 PM EDT via mobile up reply actions
my fault
I started it by bringing up the conversation I heard between Forslund and Maniscalco. The intention was to air this question to hear all sides since it was out on the table.
And it was very much about the season as a whole (or hole, as it turns out). It wasn’t intended to isolate Staal but just to describe his role in the team’s roller coaster and very disappointing season after a 3rd home shutout in only a couple weeks. I think officially getting eliminated makes the talk more visceral than it might be if the Canes chances had gone the other way the last few weeks.
Olympian Tim Gleason in Vancouver: "I don’t care what anybody says, to watch an exciting hockey game, there’s nothing like it."
by Carolyn Christians on Apr 4, 2010 1:00 PM EDT up reply actions
+1 when things go bad it's Staal's fault, when things go right it's usually do to some other player...like Wardo
"He has all the virtues I dislike, and none of the vices I admire." -Sir Winston Churchill
by SouthernHockeyFan on Apr 4, 2010 6:48 PM EDT up reply actions
Are you being sarcastic? I’m not sure which way you’re going with that statement.
Olympian Tim Gleason in Vancouver: "I don’t care what anybody says, to watch an exciting hockey game, there’s nothing like it."
by Carolyn Christians on Apr 4, 2010 9:30 PM EDT up reply actions
I don’t think he is the whipping boy… It’s simply team roles. We don’t pay anyone else on the team $8+ million dollars a year to be a game-changer (I think that’s key there). We pay Staal that money.
For example… If the Capitals get shut-out two games in a row at home, who do you think people are going to point a finger at? Ovechkin. He gets paid an ungodly amount to be a game changer.
Again, as mentioned earlier in the thread. Ovechkin has more and better weapons (Backstrom/Semin/Green) to help take the focus off of him.
Triple Gold Juice - It's Potent and Guaranteed to Help You Score!
by PackPride17 on Apr 4, 2010 12:16 PM EDT via mobile up reply actions
Also regarding the salary and the ‘C’. Forslund said he does think that Staal understands the responsibility of both. He thinks the salary actually humbled himself somewhat. It’s not a matter of knowing what’s important, it’s knowing how to channel that into a consistent performance game in and game out.
Phoblographer and Finn Aficionado
SISU
Sorry, that was meant to be a reply to my previous post, not a new one. Uninspired effort on my part to get it right.
Phoblographer and Finn Aficionado
SISU
by Jamie Kellner on Apr 3, 2010 10:44 PM EDT up reply actions
99.9 is even uninspired tonight. Instead of being able to hear the rest of Forslund another station is bleeding over and I’m getting Andy Gibb singing “Shadow Dancing”. sigh…
Phoblographer and Finn Aficionado
SISU
by Jamie Kellner on Apr 3, 2010 10:46 PM EDT up reply actions
I'd like
to see Gleason with McBain next season too bad he had to get his foot hurt
" Chadness" is contagious ! Go Canes !!
Holy cow. The torture continues….
Olympian Tim Gleason in Vancouver: "I don’t care what anybody says, to watch an exciting hockey game, there’s nothing like it."
by Carolyn Christians on Apr 3, 2010 11:06 PM EDT up reply actions
I’ll take that as a yes?
Phoblographer and Finn Aficionado
SISU
by Jamie Kellner on Apr 3, 2010 11:13 PM EDT up reply actions
YES! Oh – was the future Mrs Gleason there tonight? I was learning a lot from TLeaf on who’s who.
And for those of you followiing the twitterfeed of lgc_com during the game, “the pretty girl at the RBC in the McBainiac Tee” was in fact the one and only TLeaf who I lucky enough to sit next to tonight. She’s famous!
Olympian Tim Gleason in Vancouver: "I don’t care what anybody says, to watch an exciting hockey game, there’s nothing like it."
by Carolyn Christians on Apr 3, 2010 11:17 PM EDT up reply actions
Wow. Those two photos are really a study in contrasts aren’t they? Tim-the serious, introspective, almost shy, “don’t look at me” player. Tuomo-the bubbly, enthusiastic, almost giggly, “happy-go-lucky” player. Kind of a strange observation, but I found it very interesting.
And, no you’re not the only one missing those two. I don’t think fans are the only ones missing them either. The team needs them.
"What Carolina really has going for them is Brandon Sutter. When that kid first showed up, he looked like a skinny little thing that wouldn’t last two weeks. But he’s turned into a real star."
Yeah, funny huh? I thought both shots were dead-on personality wise.
Phoblographer and Finn Aficionado
SISU
by Jamie Kellner on Apr 3, 2010 11:22 PM EDT up reply actions
Agreed, looking at those two pictures, you know exactly who Tim and Tuomo are.
"What Carolina really has going for them is Brandon Sutter. When that kid first showed up, he looked like a skinny little thing that wouldn’t last two weeks. But he’s turned into a real star."
by caniacgirl on Apr 3, 2010 11:33 PM EDT via mobile up reply actions
Yeah, me too. I’m sure he’s well taped under the suit. He stayed behind the bench while Timmy and Alex Picard walked across the ice to give away their jerseys. He did sign the jersey with his right hand though, and I guess he intends to spend 45 minutes signing autographs on Thursday. I’m a little surprised, from what I’ve heard about shoulder surgery I thought he’d be completely immobile in that arm for several weeks.
Phoblographer and Finn Aficionado
SISU
by Jamie Kellner on Apr 3, 2010 11:29 PM EDT up reply actions
A fall on the ice probably would not be a good thing, modern medicine is amazing. I had a friend that fell, hit his head and had to have brain surgery.. I was allowed in to see him about an hour after. I expected lots of tubes and him to be laying out flat. Nope, he was sitting up and talking and no tubes except for the IV.. they had him up and walking less than 3 hours later..amazing. Awesome pics by the way.
Did you get the oven mitt?
Mo leave the F**kin first line Staal, Jussi, and the Wizard, whats wrong with ya!
LOL I know better than to even stop by the K&C booth when something of his is up for auction.
Although after hearing the bids on the Boychuk jersey (last Mr. LTD saw it was over $1500), I’m thinking my jersey was a steal.
Phoblographer and Finn Aficionado
SISU
by Jamie Kellner on Apr 4, 2010 9:47 PM EDT up reply actions
OMG LTD Those are great!! and you already know how much I miss them!!
"That’s what happens when you suck" - Tim Gleason
Y’know what I just realized? We don’t get to see Timmy with the long(er) hair and beard until we make the playoffs again. (or beyond that, any of our guys looking shaggy, tired and happy). Not the most important thing, but something I’ll miss just the same. :-(
Olympian Tim Gleason in Vancouver: "I don’t care what anybody says, to watch an exciting hockey game, there’s nothing like it."
by Carolyn Christians on Apr 4, 2010 11:05 AM EDT up reply actions
Remember the "Black Aces"?
And we don’t get to see who the next set of Black Aces would have been. Remember this from last year?
from April 12, 2009:
The Hurricanes said Monday that minor-league forwards Zach Boychuk, Patrick Dwyer and Brandon Sutter will join defensemen Brett Carson and Bryan Rodney and goaltender Justin Peters for practices during the playoffs
My guesses: Peters, Tlusty, Osala, Borer, Dalpe?
Olympian Tim Gleason in Vancouver: "I don’t care what anybody says, to watch an exciting hockey game, there’s nothing like it."
by Carolyn Christians on Apr 4, 2010 11:10 AM EDT up reply actions
May they have such a deep run into their own playoffs this season to not even miss having a chance to be Black Aces, but I think you do have the candidates…other than the ones we already have borrowed from Coach Daniels, of course.
We’d have to add McBain, Boychuk, and Dwyer in there, if they weren’t already performing injury duty for Gleason (McBain) and Ruutu (Boychuk), and subbing for a traded Cullen (Dwyer).
aw, why did they have to get injured…
great pics by the way, LTD! you never disappoint :)
by silent_shadow36 on Apr 4, 2010 12:46 PM EDT up reply actions
thank you thank you thank you for sharing these!! YES!!!! I missed these two!
I almost stayed for the jersey give away – but it was too painful.
"The increase in pain is way beyond what you would expect a person to play with," said coach Paul Maurice. "Unfortunately it’s even beyond what Tim Gleason can play with, because he can play with just about anything."
Albany re-cap. Including Goal #6 from Zac Dalpe, in first 7 pro games.
They have 2 more games next weekend, first game of AHL Playoffs is April 14th.
Olympian Tim Gleason in Vancouver: "I don’t care what anybody says, to watch an exciting hockey game, there’s nothing like it."
by Carolyn Christians on Apr 3, 2010 11:06 PM EDT reply actions
Aww Beans !!
Thanks HM2 i guess in my disdain for what happened last night i sorta blew it big time…guess i’m just a clark kent wanna be …sigh…
" Chadness" is contagious ! Go Canes !!
Three in a row
Not my original observation, but this is a true statement:
Three straight Saturday nite home losses of 4-0 PHX, BOS and now NJ. UGH!
Ugh, indeed. Hardly an entertainment product.
GAMES THAT TOOK THE HURRICANES OUT OF THE PLAYOFFS
I was thinking along similar lines with respect to various essential games that ended the Hurricanes hopes of a miraculous come back. The abysmal start to the season is inarguable; and dug a tremendous hole for the Hurricanes. Still, with the arrival of the young players and the trades of some under-performing players, the Hurricanes did make it interesting. In retrospect, I think these games were critical games where the Hurricanes let a miracle pass them by:
1. Sat Mar 6, 2010 Hurricanes Panthers
FINAL CAR (1) – FLA (4)
2. Sat Mar 13, 2010 Coyotes Hurricanes
FINAL PHX (4) – CAR (0)
3. Tue Mar 16, 2010 Bruins Hurricanes
FINAL BOS (5) – CAR (2)
4. Sun Mar 21, 2010 Sabres Hurricanes
FINAL BUF (5) – CAR (3)
5. Sat Mar 27, 2010 Thrashers Hurricanes
FINAL ATL (4) – CAR (0)
6. Thu Apr 1, 2010 Hurricanes Senators
FINAL CAR (3) – OTT (4) SO
7. Sat Apr 3, 2010 Devils Hurricanes
FINAL NJD (4) – CAR (0)
The inability of the Hurricanes to win at home during crunch time late in the season is an important lesson for the Hurricanes as they consider how to reach the Stanley Cup Tournament next season. Almost all of the home game shut outs followed the pattern of (1) ineffective power plays; (2) early penalties; (3) soft positioning during the first period and too much space for the opposing team; and (4) being out hit and out skated. The post game reports had a pattern in which the Hurricanes players and coaches noted that they had trouble getting pucks to the net and trouble getting traffic in front of the net.
The view from 324
Honestly, was struck last night at how the “veterans” had been pushed to both sides, quarantined, if you will, on the “first” and “fourth” lines.
Brind’Amour, Samsonov, and Kostopoulos (bless his heart) to the fourth. Staal, Whitney, and Cole to the first.
In between, we have Sutter centering LaRose and Jokinen, as our checking, phantom “first”, and…well, they’re pretty much all we have.
We also have a total “Rats” line of Dwyer centering Boychuk and Bowman. Wow.
Honestly, it’s a wonder we have beat the teams we have recently with the likes of that, folks. :-D
I’m kind of baffled looking at the TOI from last nights game… The only 2 players with under 10 minutes in Even Strength TOI were Jussi (9:33) and Boychuk (9:31). You would think Brind’Amour was actually the 4th line, however he has highest Even Strength TOI (13:28) behind the first line (Staal/Cole/Whitney) and Larose.
Boychuk/Dwyer/Bowman has been our 4th line while time was split between Sutter’s and Brind’Amour’s line. I just can’t see what they are going for.
Now that you mention it, this is a baffling boxscore (or go to your favorite source), particularly as to the even strength ice times.
What the heck was going on? Game was so boring to watch that maybe I missed Mo rolling the bones and inventing line combos on the fly.
He does that, you know [/sarcasm].
TOI oddities
Although I could not make myself watch the Devils game in its entirety again (could hardly stand to do so in person!), I did fast forward through to the interviews and watched a few select events from the game.
After the first, Mo’s interview provided some insight into the scrambled ice times, as he said “we’ll be making some changes in the lines”, including moving Jokinen to center instead of Dwyer.
So, he did roll the bones and throw some oddball line combos out there, which may explain some of the mysteries we discovered in the boxscores.
Guess I was too bored at that point to notice all of the changes myself, as they were happening. Was having way too good of a time with my seatmates, instead.
Jamie McBain is now 6% owned for Yahoo sport fantasy league. (isn’t that double from a couple weeks ago?)
Olympian Tim Gleason in Vancouver: "I don’t care what anybody says, to watch an exciting hockey game, there’s nothing like it."
by Carolyn Christians on Apr 4, 2010 12:41 PM EDT reply actions
I believe you could use a new avatar photo too! That one with McCutie last night is too cool not to share!
Olympian Tim Gleason in Vancouver: "I don’t care what anybody says, to watch an exciting hockey game, there’s nothing like it."
by Carolyn Christians on Apr 4, 2010 2:42 PM EDT up reply actions
=D
Olympian Tim Gleason in Vancouver: "I don’t care what anybody says, to watch an exciting hockey game, there’s nothing like it."
by Carolyn Christians on Apr 4, 2010 9:31 PM EDT up reply actions
I believe you could use a new avatar photo too! That one with McCutie last night is too cool not to share!
Olympian Tim Gleason in Vancouver: "I don’t care what anybody says, to watch an exciting hockey game, there’s nothing like it."
by Carolyn Christians on Apr 4, 2010 2:49 PM EDT up reply actions
That’s a GREAT photo! This one AND the avatar.
Phoblographer and Finn Aficionado
SISU
by Jamie Kellner on Apr 4, 2010 9:42 PM EDT up reply actions
I think you may have created a mini-me LTD. Every time I looked over, Jen was snapping away. :)
"What Carolina really has going for them is Brandon Sutter. When that kid first showed up, he looked like a skinny little thing that wouldn’t last two weeks. But he’s turned into a real star."
What? I only took like 350 pics? Thats not bad is it?? LOL!! Half of those were for you CG!!;) I bow to the master though, my pics will never be LTD good!!
"That’s what happens when you suck" - Tim Gleason
Don’t use me as an excuse for your new found obsession! I will not be an enabler!
I’m an enabler aren’t I?
"What Carolina really has going for them is Brandon Sutter. When that kid first showed up, he looked like a skinny little thing that wouldn’t last two weeks. But he’s turned into a real star."
After watching other teams play, the Canes are one of the worst teams in regard to positioning. We consistently have multiple guys in the same place on the ice. We are not in good shooting and rebound position. And because of our positioning, a single defender can somewhat cover 2 men.
Our PP is also very predictable. Pits always skates the puck up the ice and either passes the puck to Staal along the left boards or whoever is skating up the middle. After repeating that so many times, teams start to pick it up.
These items are a combination of coaching and players. I still believe that we need to find an offensive coach that will bring a new style to the Canes. One that is more offensively creative, but doesn’t leave our goalie high-and-dry.
Triple Gold Juice - It's Potent and Guaranteed to Help You Score!
by PackPride17 on Apr 4, 2010 1:11 PM EDT via mobile reply actions
Hopefully they are just throwing the last few games of the season. We are in a pretty good spot now, I’d still estimate we end up in 4th with the Islanders and Tampa Bay finishing ahead of us. That is a damn good shot at the 1st Overall and a bright next season.
Yep – I think we’re at 5th now (meaning we might even get the #1 in the lottery – slim chance), I could see NYI and TOR challenging us from behind. After Edmonton, there’s Florida and Tampa Bay who might stay above us in the lottery. Tuesday is interesting in that regard.
Olympian Tim Gleason in Vancouver: "I don’t care what anybody says, to watch an exciting hockey game, there’s nothing like it."
by Carolyn Christians on Apr 4, 2010 2:51 PM EDT up reply actions
Certainly after Tuesday we should be able to make a pretty valid prediction. Will be interesting, I doubt we can beat a surging Stamkos vying for the Richard Trophy if we put up the same effort we did last night.
And Montreal and Boston are really motivated to end with a bang. Based on last night’s showing, the Canes are mentally exhausted and are content just thinking about their tee times and/or flights home for the summer.
Olympian Tim Gleason in Vancouver: "I don’t care what anybody says, to watch an exciting hockey game, there’s nothing like it."
by Carolyn Christians on Apr 4, 2010 3:40 PM EDT up reply actions
Think the positional problem is related to players being shuffled like a deck of cards throughout the season, heck even during the course of a game.
"He has all the virtues I dislike, and none of the vices I admire." -Sir Winston Churchill
by SouthernHockeyFan on Apr 4, 2010 6:53 PM EDT up reply actions
OT: DVR alert
To wash the bad taste out of your mouth, at 6 pm tonight, the NHL Network channel’s “NHL Classic” game is Game 7 of the 2006 Sabres series.
Drop the puck!
Только игра! Почему надо быть гневаться?
"The power of Moscow pride should never be underestimated."
Caps Snaps - Washington Capitals Photography
If being a Caniac has taught us anything – it’s expect the unexpected… making the odds useless. :)
"The increase in pain is way beyond what you would expect a person to play with," said coach Paul Maurice. "Unfortunately it’s even beyond what Tim Gleason can play with, because he can play with just about anything."
OT: Hockey News Power Rankings
No real news here, although we do improve from 24th to 23rd.
Instead, the noteworthy aspect of this week’s edition is that their commentary section is entirely devoted to Brandon Sutter:
Brandon Sutter could become the first player since Sergei Berezin in 1999-2000 to finish the season with more than 20 goals and just two penalty minutes. The downside is if he doesn’t get more penalty minutes next year he might be kicked out of his family.
LOL – funny. I like that.
Olympian Tim Gleason in Vancouver: "I don’t care what anybody says, to watch an exciting hockey game, there’s nothing like it."
by Carolyn Christians on Apr 5, 2010 2:56 PM EDT up reply actions
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