Staal and LaRose Light Up RBC: Hurricanes 5, Canadiens 2
by Bob Wage on Apr 8, 2010 10:52 PM EDT
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PrintEric Staal netted a hat trick along with two assists and Chad LaRose added two goals and two assists of his own to propel the Carolina Hurricanes to a 5-2 win over the Montreal Canadiens on Thursday night at the RBC.
The hat trick was the 10th of Staal's career which is a new Hurricanes franchise record. That's just another of Hall of Famer Ron Francis' previous records to fall to the new team captain.. The hat trick came on free hat night, which precipitated hundreds of hats being thrown to the ice.
Staal now has nine points in his last two games. LaRose's four point night was a career high.
Jamie McBain also had an excellent game and chipped in with two assists. Along with Staal, he had a team high +4 on the night.
After a scoreless first period, the Hurricanes captain started off the scoring just a minute and change into the second when he backhanded a rebound attempt past Montreal goalie, Jaroslav Halak. Up to that point, both Halak and Cam Ward made several fine saves.
Chad LaRose lit the lamp next. The winger broke into the clear, was tripped as he started to make his move, and still roofed a backhander past the Montreal goalie on a fantastic display of concentration.
The Habs made a game of it as Brian Gionta knocked in a goal later in the period to make it, 2-1.
But Staal would score his second of the night early in the third period when he received a beautiful pass from Jamie McBain. The young defenseman faked a shot, but fired a bullet of a pass to the center, who casually sent it past Halak to make the score 3-1.
Marc-Andre Bergeron fired in a shot from the blueline just 21 seconds later, but later in the third LaRose scored his second goal as he followed Staal in the zone and put back the captain's rebound. Jussi Jokinen got his stick on the puck as well and earned an assist on the play.
LaRose found Staal along the wall with a perfect bounce pass and the All Star flicked the puck easily into the empty net to complete the scoring.
The sell out crowd was electric and was as loud as a playoff game as they cheered for the team with gusto as the final minute of the season at the RBC clicked off the clock. After the game, the team and coach had nothing but praise for the fans who stuck with the team through thick and thin the whole season.
After the game, Chad LaRose said, "The crowd really deserved this, they have been behind us all year long." Eric Staal said much the same thing.
Coach Paul Maurice gave the fans credit as well. "You can see it and hear it on the bench. The fans get this team going and they go as the fans go."
The Hurricanes close out their season on the road against Boston on Saturday afternoon.
Game Notes:
- Staal needs one more goal to hit 30 for the season which would mean that he would score 30 goals or more every year of his career except his rookie campaign.
- Jamie McBain continues to impress. He led all skaters with 26:58 of TOI and played in all situations. His one assist to Staal was a thing of beauty that many veterans can not make.
- Chad LaRose was skating all night like he was shot out of a cannon and was creating chances most of the game.
- Jay Harrison had a team high six hits. The Canes were credited with 30 for the game.
- Staal certainly had scoring on his mind. He also led the team with eight shots on goal.
Below is some video of Staal and LaRose as they were interviewed after the game.
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Booooom shacks lackkka
Great Day to be a ’Caniac!!!!
by RU4RU on Apr 8, 2010 10:58 PM EDT via mobile reply actions
I think we found that star power forward to be Staal’s wingman. # 59 Chad LaRose!! Or at least Binky 3.0
Incredible game! Thanks Canes for giving the fans a glimmer of next season.
RF has a picture of it, but I had to laugh at the sign on the scoreboard as we were leaving “Next Home Game in Helsinki, Finland”
"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."
LOL I snagged that one too!
And I have several pictures of you two as well, right there behind Pierre.
Phoblographer and Finn Aficionado
SISU
by Jamie Kellner on Apr 8, 2010 11:10 PM EDT up reply actions
I made sure to pick my nose and scratch my butt a lot of the camera.
by Raccoon Fink on Apr 8, 2010 11:22 PM EDT up reply actions
LaRose Next Season
LaRose’s performance tonight was tremendous. It was also somewhat magical to have the RBC crowd as loud as a play off game. I have asked many, many different people who know hockey far better than me what they’d do if they were GM and had to choose between Cole and LaRose. Literally, every person concluded that although it was not an easy decision, LaRose had more gas in the tank and has a better future for the team.
I was impressed and interested that there was such a consensus of opinion on the subject. It also had the feeling that Brind’Amour was playing his last game at the RBC. To me, tonight felt like a new beginning rather than a disappointing season that came to a merciful end.
tonight felt like a new beginning
That’s exactly what it felt like. That’s why we were cheering.
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 8, 2010 11:31 PM EDT up reply actions
There’s a lot to be happy about. This team really is pretty good, even with all the young kids up. It’s not going to take too much to be a playoff team again next season. A good draft this year and this team could be stocked for the foreseeable future. Now, let justice be served and let the Canes win the draft lottery.
I just wish JR would have given up Ray Whitney for Lent.
agreed that the team looks good for next season. Been really impressed with the young D, specifically McBain. The kid just looks years ahead of himself and is so poised. As for the draft lottery, right now that is impossible, only the worst 5 teams have a chance at the lottery and we are not in that group.
NHL Draft Lottery rules
…only the worst 5 teams have a chance at the lottery…
Actually, that’s not quite how it works. The lottery is amongst the bottom 14 teams (everyone out of the playoffs), so we will be in the lottery.
However, you are correct that we cannot move to the 1st pick, because winning the lottery only lets a team move up a maximum of 4 places.
So, any of the bottom 5 can reach the #1 pick. Picking 7th, for instance, would limit us to moving up to the 3rd slot, even if we win the lottery (which we have a 4.7% chance of doing so from that position).
Here’s a handy source for those wishing to play the “what if” game.
I’ve never seen so many hats on the ice in my life!
I love this team so, so much. That was fun. Thanks guys.
Phoblographer and Finn Aficionado
SISU
Hats and a few other thoughts
My son and I were there tonight (Sect 109) and we were saying Rosey was due to set up Staal for the hattie, once they both had 2. I saw the set-up feed from 59 to 12, and only then noticed the empty net. My hand went to my hat and the moment the goal horn sounded, the hat went up and toward the ice. Best part was: a couple thousand others exploded like popcorn simultaneously. I would love to see that video. Maybe in flavor of the game?
The crowd stood and cheered raucously for the remaining 90 secs of the game. The 3 Stars were tremendously popular choices. I wish all 20 could have taken a bow with their name called out one-by-one.
Staal was a monster – I love this line. I know Rosey’s not supposedly “1st line” material, but holy cow, you couldn’t tell that tonight. Staal was having fun – a joy to watch. Montreal was completely overwhelmed at times.
I’ll bet the median of “NHL career games played” by our 6 D might be less than 20. (And I will check that). Thank you Daniels and Kinnear.
Awesome. Just awesome.
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 8, 2010 11:31 PM EDT up reply actions
We’re usually in section 329 and never have a hat with us. It was a good 15-20 seconds until I realized “wait – we have a hat to throw, and we are close enough to get it to the ice!” I handed a hat to RF to throw. A bit later one landed at my feet. I threw it towards the ice and hit Cammalleri in the head… whooops.
"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."
Here is the most awesome video – TSN’s (Pierre McG) call of the 3 Staal goals. The Hats popping at the end is awesome. They love LaRose and McBain too.
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 8, 2010 11:49 PM EDT up reply actions
A Nice Ending
Unbelievable game! This has been a disappointing season, but it feels good going out at home on a high note. I don’t even mind losing draft positioning ground. One more like this and at least I go into the offseason moderately happy.
Staal was tonight the player I remember from seasons past. He was skating well, put some very good shots on goal, netted a hattie, and made some quality passes.
I cannot understand how anybody cannot love LaRose. The guy plays with so much heart, I’m glad he was rewarded with a career game. I don’t care what anybody says, Chad deserves to be on this team next season and deserves top 9 minutes!
McLovin’ was very good again; why did it take so long to call him up? In my mind, he is slated as next years top pairing with Timmy. I also thought Carson played solidly. I don’t know if he’s top 4 material, but to me he is a better version of Wallin; a defenseman that can be counted on to play a solid game.
Roddy had a good (last) game? TK was effective as normal and Rodney played pretty well, he kept a lot of pucks in the zone. Based on what I’ve seen, I would put Rodney over Picard. Harrison also wasn’t bad and could be decent in a 7th or 8th defenseman role.
Now RayRay and Out-of-Control Cole, they were almost useless on the ice. I sure hope Ray is not playing for a contract, because his offer amounts keep decreasing each game. Cole is better on paper than real life. He really offers little-to-none when he is on the ice. I felt bad for Sutter; its tough skating fast while carrying all of that dead weight.
I really didn’t notice Borer much, but that might be a good thing. Lil’chuk is a nice player, but still needs to learn how to better use his small frame. He just seems to get knocked down and off the puck a lot.
All in all, I loved how the home season ended. I witnessed my favorite player contribute on all Hurricanes goals and he earned a hat trick on hat night – the 1st time I’ve ever thrown my hat on the ice. The Canes won and the core & kids have me really excited about next season. If we can avoid the slow start, we WILL be playoff bound in 2011. GO CANES!!!
Triple Gold Juice - It's Potent and Guaranteed to Help You Score!
by PackPride17 on Apr 8, 2010 11:31 PM EDT via mobile reply actions
LaRose
I posted in the game thread about LaRose. The short version is that I spoke with a ton of people who really know hockey and asked about LaRose versus Cole. Every person said keep LaRose and not Cole if that is the choice. I am not sold on LaRose as a top nine minute player; but given how LaRose played tonight, it would be impossible to argue against top nine minutes for any player playing that well.
Carson to me is definitely a top four defensemen. He skates extremely well and has a great hockey mind. He virtually never makes a mistake that results in a goal. Some folks in the Canes organization had been advocating for McBain; and it took some injuries for McBain to get his chance. McBain definitely was as good as some people at CC had said.
I suspect we will find that Whitney has some kind of injury but just played through it. He’s had some tough games for him. I also think Boychuk will come back next season substantially stronger, although I put a great deal of weight on the fact that Boychuk draws penalties and plays with a edge of fiestiness — and does so with blazing speed.
I believe that LaRose would play top 9 minutes on almost every NHL team. While he is not the most skilled player, he offers many other intangibles. I know you would like to put together 3 scoring lines next year, but I believe lines need to have roles and balance. Chad is a good forechecker and is pretty defensive responsible. I’m not saying he should be a 1st liner, but definitely on the 3rd line.
I also don’t agree with you on Carson. Don’t get me wrong, he’s played well and I like him as a 5th defenseman. Now if you look at our defenseman, he is probably in OUR top 4; but that doesn’t mean he is a top 4 defenseman.
And Boychuk – I said he is a fine player; he just needs to learn how to use his body better. For someone that is always preaching about “getting bigger,” you really love Lil’chuk.
Triple Gold Juice - It's Potent and Guaranteed to Help You Score!
by PackPride17 on Apr 9, 2010 12:33 AM EDT via mobile up reply actions
Boychuk and Next Season's Forwards
I do like Boychuk’s game and what it brings to the Hurricanes. I think there is a reason why he was picked in the first round and why he has had success at every level of hockey. I’d be happier of course if Boychuk had a sudden growth spurt and woke up one morning to find he was now 6’ 3" and 225 lbs. I don’t have any quarrel with your assessment about Boychuk during his time this season; but as far as next season, I believe Boychuk will come to training camp faster, bigger, and stronger. Sutter increased his speed, strength, and physical endurance over the past summer.
The more I think about the LaRose situation and having to find four roster spots by the 2010-2011 trade deadline with Ruutu’s return being taken into account, I think Jim Rutherford and Jason Karmanos may well choose to keep LaRose. If so, I have Brind’Amour and Samsonov on the endangered species list. Cole as being on the list probably to retire. Kostopoulos as being a player who the Hurricanes very, very reluctantly have to deal in order to keep LaRose. LaRose has such a history with the Hurricanes; and he has so many intangibles that don’t show up anywhere but in the win column.
That leaves Boychuk, #1 draft choice, and Dalpe as having solid roster spots. I think Tlusty, Bowman, and Samson essentially share a roster spot and spend this next season in the Charlotte shuffle. If the #1 draft choice isn’t ready for the NHL, then I suspect by the trade deadline Tlusty or Bowman will gain a roster spot and the other will join Samson in making the 3 hour car ride between Raleigh and Charlotte.
With the likelihood that there will be at least some man hours lost to injuries in 2010-2011, the Hurricanes organization would be foolish to trade away its young forward talent.
Canes are now at the #7 drafting position. I’m not sure that their first rounder will be in the NHL next year any more. On top of that, with all the contracts and the talent they have they may send their first round pick back to juniors.
Take Connolly for example, if the Canes draft him they probably should send him back to juniors. He needs to play a full season at this age to develop the stamina it takes to play in the NHL. It will also give the Canes an extra year to work out the contracts. Connolly is likely not to be around at #7, so if you replace Connolly with Nino it becomes an even easier decision to make. (Still sticking wiht JR not drafting a d-man early in the first.)
I just wish JR would have given up Ray Whitney for Lent.
I think Carson is close to being a top four, but I would prefer the option for next season to have him on the third pair. That could me extending Pothier. It could me another FA. I haven’t looked to see who will be available (other than Seidenburg). I like someone like Pothier though. Someone a little bit older and a little wiser who can sort of mentor/teach Carson. Also, someone hungry who will fight for the minutes.
I just wish JR would have given up Ray Whitney for Lent.
Pothier has looked pretty good the last week or so. Dropping the gloves in Ottawa was not something I’d have expected.
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 9, 2010 8:21 AM EDT up reply actions
Chad must have thrown two dozen pucks over the glass to young fans during warmups tonight.
And he was all over the ice all night long.
Don’t doubt the madness…
Phoblographer and Finn Aficionado
SISU
His magic effect on Staal was impossible to miss. With Rosey on his wing, Staal doesn’t doubt the madness that is Chadness nor that of Staal-ness either.
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 8, 2010 11:52 PM EDT up reply actions
Oh and LOL I didn’t have as clean a sight line as Gerry Broome did but looks like I snapped my photo of Chad’s goal at almost the exact same time he did. From the opposite side of the ice:
Phoblographer and Finn Aficionado
SISU
by Jamie Kellner on Apr 8, 2010 11:55 PM EDT up reply actions
LTD – having tried to take pictures of the game tonight, I have a new level of respect and appreciation of just how incredible a job you do with your pictures. I was always a few seconds behind the play – or the glass was just AWFUL to shoot through.
"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."
Boston College demolishes #1 seed Miami
by a score or 7-1 to advance to the Frozen Four final Saturday at 7pm.
The re-cap says the BC D was outstanding.
Guess which precocious freshman D-man had 3 assists and led his teams plus/minus at +3? Click on “scoring summary” in this link for the answer
He’ll be 19 in September.
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 9, 2010 12:19 AM EDT reply actions
doesn’t hurt that he’s rather handsome :)
"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."
Is he? I hadn’t noticed.
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 9, 2010 12:34 AM EDT up reply actions
Great Game
And on TV you could tell a good time was had by all…Forslund had a 2 part taped telephone interview with jeff Danials and they did talk about how the rats as a group & team were doing well…and Coach Danials even said he wasn’t surprised at Samson’s,McBaines growth & skills, and maturity…and how well Dalpe has fit in seamlessly and with all the players the team has, they look forward to the playoffs.
John & Tripp both saids that the whole day at & around the RBCC was magical and from the videos i saw …I did wish i could have been there…and several commercials were pushing the STH’rs & ASG Tickets too…Like On the A-Team I love it when a plan comes together !!!! hehehe…And the finals for the frozen 4 will be BC & Wisconson…should be a good game…now who is going to be pulling for BC ?? Good night all…
" Chadness" is contagious ! Go Canes !!
Draft Spot
With Minnesota winning tonight… We are locked into the 6th-8th place for the Draft Lottery this Tuesday.
8th to last: Atlanta, 2 games left, 81 points
7th to last: Carolina, 1 game left, 80 points
6th to last: NY Islanders, 2 games left, 78 points
The Islanders would have to win both their games or go 1-0-1 to pass us (against NJ and Pittsburgh) and that would be assuming we lose. If Atlanta loses both games and we win against Boston then we move into 8th to last. Most likely we will finish 7th to last and have a 4.7% chance to win the Draft Lottery which would move us to the 3rd Pick.
Too cool. We were all Staal lovers last night. That kind of effort (and I’m not expecting 5 pt/night) every game would shut up a lot of critics (myself included) in a hurry. Wysh also made #1 Star at Puck Daddy with this photo:
How great that the Montreal crowd and TSN watchers got to see that show on the day this Mayberry of a town was selected for the ASG.
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 9, 2010 7:57 AM EDT up reply actions
darnit! Edit error: Wysh also made Staal the #1 star...
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 9, 2010 7:59 AM EDT up reply actions
Staal Last Night
Staal’s play last night was really inspiring. In my mind I was thinking about Boychuk being on the first line at the end of next season with Staal and Jokinen or even with somebody like Connolly. In other words, Staal and two burners would be interesting; but Jokinen has so much skill and hockey intelligence that he seems to be part of bringing out the best in Staal.
Last night LaRose, Staal, and Jokinen were really in sync. Stranger things have happened in hockey than seeing LaRose next season on the first line, yapping away at the other team and his linemates and flying down the ice. Perhaps LaRose’s speed, his attitude of always hustling, and his extroverted nature may well be something that Staal needs to keep his mind focused on the moment and his feet moving. It could be that Staal’s competitive nature would make him want to keep up with LaRose’s energy level.
I also think Rosey makes him laugh. That’s a great way to relieve the pressure and the self-icriticism of Staal’s “oldest son” perfectionism.
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 9, 2010 8:18 AM EDT up reply actions
Good points. I feel like Rosey and Staal and Jokinen all represent very different styles of play, and I always felt like that was key. You look at some of our best lines historically and they all represent that versatile dynamic. Look at the dynamics of the Stiller Staal Cole line. Everyone represented a different stylistic quality.
I like the line, Plus I think Rosey is capable of another level. Top line minutes may help him find it!
I think Rosey works so well for Staal because Staal knows he can make a move and Rosey will clean up the rebound. Rosey tends to score goals in two ways; 1) break aways on the goalie, 2) cleaning up Staal’s rebounds. I think that dynamic helps Staal play better. He knows he doesn’t have to score, just get the puck in deep and take the defenders with him and leave Rosey wide open. That said, I think that tactic works better against lower pairs which is why I’ve generally been more in favor of LaRose on the third line getting paired with Staal during a double shift for the captain.
The way the two have been playing on the first line recently is making me reconsider. Maybe it’s Jussi being a legitimate additional scoring threat that helps it. Maybe it’s something else. Either way, it is working.
I just wish JR would have given up Ray Whitney for Lent.
If It's Working, Don't Fix It
I agree that dynamic between LaRose and Staal does seem to be working; and I feel strongly if something is working, don’t fix it until it stops working. Also, I agree that Jokinen’s work on the first line adds to the synergy. On the other hand, my guess is that against Boston, Phoenix, Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, and San Jose, the first line is going to need a bigger power forward to battle inside against their big, physical, and fast forwards.
The Hurricanes matched up well against Montreal’s smaller forwards. It is much worse a match up against the bigger teams; and it is no surprise to me that the 4 to 0 home games came against teams like Phoenix and Boston. Against, the smaller skilled teams, LaRose, Staal, Jokinen is a hard line for the opposition to handle. Against, the bigger, physical teams, this season the Hurricanes struggled offensively.
I thought I heard in Mo’s postgame comments that Staal has been playing through 2 injuries (quad and something else) and he felt better yesterday. If that’s what I heard, I need to retract most of my thoughts about his not showing the needed effort lately. Perhaps nagging injuries DID have something to do with how he looked on the ice this season and fans such as myself forget how much they can affect a player’s performance. That said, since we all saw how he plays when feeling good, why not keep him out an extra game or two when he is hurting instead of playing hurt and being ineffective at best (and looking lazy at worst) for 6 or 8 games? I’d much rather see this Staal than the other, even if he plays fewer games.
CANIACS: If you know what's good for you, you won't admit to winning Tripp Bingo!!
I thought he was referring to injuries he’s had over the whole season. For sure, the groin and oblique strains/tears were last fall. Not sure about the tricep.
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 9, 2010 8:20 AM EDT up reply actions
Thanks HM. I wasn’t paying full attention when that part came up. Now I can go back to being a Staal devil’s advocate again, I guess! But he and Chad really looked great together, and looks like Binky’s the odd man out.
CANIACS: If you know what's good for you, you won't admit to winning Tripp Bingo!!
Staal's Injuries
It will be interesting to learn whether Staal had injuries throughout the year. My bet is that Staal was never 100% this entire year; but I could be mistaken of course.
Observations from last night
Staal was definitely feeling it. On top of the goals he had a couple of nice moves in the second period. One coming down the wing that turned a simple play of a wide man bringing the puck in to the zone in to a very good chance on the door step. He made another move at center ice later that same period that was also pretty sweet. Both moves were something I didn’t think he had is his bag of tricks and was very happy to see.
Cam played amazing the first period. That game could have been 1-0 or 2-0 Montreal after twenty and he kept it knotted at 0.
McBain’s cross ice feed to Staal was amazing. That kid is years beyond his age in maturity. Someone playing so few games in the NHL cannot be expected to look at the near post and fire it across the ice to an open team mate especially when Jokinen is acting as a screen for his shot. I was in the north end store talking to some friends when that happened and would not shut up about that play. That was a veteran move from a rookie and it was beautiful.
I just wish JR would have given up Ray Whitney for Lent.
During the second period Staal got the puck out of our zone and was driving down the ice through the middle, he did an awesome head fake and the Montreal player guarding him (skating backwards) got faked out and fell backwards on his butt. He was laughing all his way to the ice. Staal cracked a smile, too.
"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."
McBain is going to have some lemons next year, I am sure, but I can not wait to see what kind of level he can elevate to next year. He is going to turn heads next year. It’s liek you said, he just reads the ice so well, he knows where to put the puck and how much time he has to do it, and he does it with such authority. The guy is definitely everything I was hoping he would be.
Also, if Boychuck keeps playing the kind of game he has been playing for the last 5 or so, the world better watch out when he gets a little more strength. He seems to explode into the offensive zone.
Maybe it’s good they waited so long to bring McCutie up so he won’t have too high a gamecount this year and might still qualify for rookie (of the year nominee) next year. How does that work?
johhnyf was saying he could see McBain in the Young Stars game next year. I would <3 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 9, 2010 8:56 AM EDT up reply actions
I think it’s twenty games played. He should still have Calder Trophy (rookie of the year) eligibility next year. Cory and I had a conversation about this in another recap thread. He made the excellent point that the Calder Trophy is usually awarded to a forward. My guess is that it will be either Nazem Kadri for the Leafs or Jordan Eberle or Taylor Hall for the Oilers, but I think McBain can get some serious consideration.
I just wish JR would have given up Ray Whitney for Lent.
He had a good WJC. He’ll also get a ton of minutes next year in Toronto likely with Kessel on his wing. He’s got the ability to put up points in bunches next year. Even better, a bad +/- generally doesn’t hurt a Calder nominee. It can be a difference maker if it’s close, but otherwise it doesn’t have much of an impact, at least not negatively for a forward.
I just wish JR would have given up Ray Whitney for Lent.
That kid is years beyond his age in maturity.
Being as close to the ice as we were, I got to see things that are difficult to tell on TV or up in the corners. It’s hard to imagine, but McBain impressed me even more than he already had. He has incredible vision; I was watching him keep track of the puck and everyone on the ice without effort. You can tell he has the ability to take it all in in the same way Pitkanen does when he’s back in the defensive zone.
He is going to be a hell of a force next year.
And Pothier has a serious death stare… not quite Gleason level, but when he’s defending someone coming into our zone he locks his eyes on the opponent.
"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."
McBain and the Amazing Cross Ice Pass
I went back to look at the video and want to see it some more. I had the impression that Jokinen used his stick to signal to McBain that Staal was open. It was pretty nuanced; and maybe I misread Jokinen; but I do think McBain and Jokinen have incredible peripheral vision and ability to read where everybody is on the ice. Very, very few young defensemen have that ability to see all the ice and to make accurate reads.
Reading these comments, you’d never know this group of fans didn’t have a playoff run starting for our team next week. Pretty cool, kids. I like it.
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 9, 2010 8:58 AM EDT reply actions
Couldn’t tell it from the crowd last night, either. I know the players have to hate not making the playoffs, but that had to be pretty awesome. Let’s watch the home games of some other teams out of the mix on Saturday and see how well they turn out for the game ;)
Can someone please get Manny a new shirt? He DESERVES one.
The crowd at Dallas last night was pretty special. Spontaneous Modano salute, brought him to tears during a 3 minute Standing O (after a career highlight video on the jumbotron with 6 mins left in game. He is considering retirement. turning 40 in June). He went on to score and tie the game with less than 2 mins left, and then scored the winner of the shoot out. Couldn’t script that any better.
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 9, 2010 9:02 AM EDT up reply actions
I just watched that video and the 3 stars announcement. Absolutely wonderful and couldn’t happen to a better guy. Now I need a tissue!
The only little twinge of regret I have is that (if last night was it), Roddy won’t get that same kind of send-off. I know they’ll retire his number and that will be great, but something like that only happens once and I really wish the fans could have given that to him after everything he’s given us.
"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."
I’ll be putting it in a C&C but Puck Daddy covered it. Also a more fan-centric story here from Kukla’s korner
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 9, 2010 11:58 AM EDT up reply actions
I don’t really have anything to say that hasn’t already been said so a big +1 to all of the “I’m so proud of this team” comments. I wouldn’t trade this group of guys, even with the way this season went, for all the playoff appearances in the world.
"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 so…I’m seriously contemplating my next purchase…I’m down to Gleason, Sutter, and LaRose…dilemma!!!! (granted…it’s a good dilemma to have. :) )
Can someone please get Manny a new shirt? He DESERVES one.
Yeah I’m trying to figure out my next jersey as well. I may find a #28 McCutie jersey under my Christmas tree at some point. Although the Sutter jersey always has, and always will, get first priority so the new one and the Cam Ward one I got for my birthday are kind of pointless. LOL
"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."
Do you think they’ll personalize it #28 McCutie?
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 9, 2010 11:59 AM EDT up reply actions
I bet they probably would. If they do #69 McLovin jerseys, why not a #28 McCutie?
"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."
I’m hoping this was someone’s last name, but I did see a Grizzwold jersey at one of the games…I about spit my drink out!
Can someone please get Manny a new shirt? He DESERVES one.
Is everyone certain he’ll be wearing #28 next season? I honestly don’t know what numbers he’s worn before. #8 and #18 are available now though, so McBain could jump to one of those if he’s a fan of the number 8. I was going to drop my jersey off last night to get his number on it, but I was afraid he might change it.
Cory, and of your great knowledge from when McBain was younger? Did he wear something other than 28?
I just wish JR would have given up Ray Whitney for Lent.
Be nice if we could share these comments with the team (the NICE ones)… if there is a player reading these – please share them! wink wink nudge nudge
"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."
Never fear! The Recaptionator is here! (And yes, I am aware of how lame that sounds.)
Greetings. No one wants to play Tripp bingo anymore. Mrs. S needs to be lured out of her hiding place with Cam pictures. OMG CAM IS SHIRTLESS!! DROOL. SWOON. We <3 LTD’s giant lens. Bouncing popcorn off McGuire’s shiny bald head is the thing to do. Harrison clearly prefers 7:40 start times. Conboy is a jack of all trades-forward, d-man, biter; the man does it all. A McTastic McThread about you McGuessed it. Suddenly I want McDonalds. Camgasmic save makes the ladies need cold showers. Sidetrip into John Grahame’s stretching routine. What does Cam have on under his pants? Tripp will tell us. No one is going to miss Tripp over the summer. Poor Tripp. Speedometers aren’t very reliable; a new instrument cluster must be purchased (no that’s not supposed to be dirty. Disappointed? Yeah me too.) Where’s Cam’s cobra?! Mo’s tie looks like a candy cane. Staal scores! Tripp says elevate; we snicker. Something about Rosey being thorny-first innuendo of the night! Don’t doubt the madness that is Chadness! Tripp discusses riding and inhaling…we’re all disturbed. Cam’s Cobra strikes. Canescup is alone in the bathroom with his bobblehead. Lady Gaga=the new birds and the bees talk. Taking Cam, Brandon and Timmy out for drinks won’t be PG. Premature horning! We’re ashamed to be part of the Canes Country Tripp Tracy Bingo Committee because well…you get the idea. Star Wars…Legos…kindergarten. Who’s taller than Tripp? Frodo maybe. Manny? Gionta probably not. TLeaf and Jen are fighting over McCutie (tickets can be purchased at www.nohesmine.com). Staal scores! Cam=massive fail. Finding Nemo quote contest. Jen’s bringing me a gift on Saturday-kinda concerned it’s a Tripp photoshop. You can’t hide from Tripp especially if you’re a hockey player. They should hand out Tripp survival kits to the rookies. Or sell them! We miss Timmy. I fail at typing and am eaten alive by the grammar police on here. Cam only ever scores in our dreams (welcome to the R rated portion of our evening). We are in each other’s brains. I want to kick Cole in the shin-Jen will hold him down. ROSEY! WE WANT A HATTIE!!!!!!!!!!! Staal gets it; the Staal love in a certain household gets to a whole new level. Jen’s daughter wants Staal’s sweaty shirt; she’s definitely Jen’s daughter. Eric says “orientated”; he’s been hanging with TT too much. The Staal boys are not a pretty people. Goodnights!
"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."
I’m not sure how this was not a regular feature until this week, but THIS IS A KEEPER! OMG laughfest at work all over again.
Can someone please get Manny a new shirt? He DESERVES one.
Amen! And again I humbly bow.
Oh btw, Mr. LTD actually took that shirtless Cam picture (he’d probably die a thousand deaths if he knew I told y’all that). But it was at the request of his wife.
Phoblographer and Finn Aficionado
SISU
by Jamie Kellner on Apr 9, 2010 10:53 AM EDT up reply actions
Mr. LTD rocks! We are eternally grateful to him for that picture. I don’t think there is anything quite like it anywhere else on the internet. :)
"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."
Although the game threads are not my cup of tea and I frankly don’t even open them anymore, I find your stream-of-conscious summaries of them to be compelling reading and perhaps a whole new James-Joycian art form.
Please continue, as you do have quite the knack for this.
thanks!
Cant always plod through the whole game time commentary after the fact… You do a GREAT job of wrap up.
Mostly a lurker but this is the best place to go - LTD, CG, HM2, Bob and Cory— keep stuff up in the offseason!
Aww thank you! HM, Bob, Cory and LTD do most (if not all) of the work around here and they put up with the rest of us so I think sainthood may be in their future.
Glad you enjoyed the recap. I’ll plan on doing them next season as well. :)
"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."
thanks CG!
another wonderful recap, awesome job!
by silent_shadow36 on Apr 9, 2010 4:43 PM EDT up reply actions
Gee it's friday !!
I have to laugh as i remember when i was working at a plant many many years ago that made T-Lams for electrial things…and come friday the dead magically woke up…as it was Payday !! But we caniacs got OUR payday yesterday huh ? my eldest grand daughter who is 19 wants a “McCutie” jersey for her birthday…she watched the game via sat internet…where her mom ( my second of 4 daughters) dad ( son in law) and siblings live and serve in Sri Lanka…talk about a time zone stretch…whoa baby…while she thinks Sutter is good loking…but she has “The Crush” on McBain…sigh…it isn’t easy being a grand parent !! Have a great day folks enjoy the coler weather…& be safe…
" Chadness" is contagious ! Go Canes !!
Remember that move Office Space when they were beating up the copy-printer w/ baseball bats and the song “Damn, it feels good to be a gangster” was playing…
Damn, it felt good to be a Caniac yesterday! (and today too)
I even cheered for Staal some….
I hope that when tomorrow rolls around that our boys have the opportunity to ruin Bostons playoff hopes (I haven’t checked the standings today)…. Go ’Canes!
"The coaches on the Carolina bench are all grinning like butchers dogs...."
by Mateos_Canes_Lamp on Apr 9, 2010 11:28 AM EDT reply actions
Damn it feels good to be a gangsta… (NSFW)
"The coaches on the Carolina bench are all grinning like butchers dogs...."
by Mateos_Canes_Lamp on Apr 9, 2010 11:30 AM EDT reply actions
Here’s a whole new thing to chew on:
nhl_canes (tweeted a few minutes ago)
Rod Brind’Amour is suffering from a groin injury and will not play in the season finale in Boston. Samson to be recalled.
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 9, 2010 12:05 PM EDT reply actions
adding this:
nhl_canes
Also, Tim Conboy has been reassigned to Albany – http://carhur.com/865
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 9, 2010 12:06 PM EDT up reply actions
This could be a rough few weeks for all of us. Well…almost all of us.
"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."
Which media speculated that with both Rod’s parents in town for last night’s game, that a retirement announcement is imminent.
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 9, 2010 12:07 PM EDT up reply actions
Yup. I’ve never seen Rod’s mother before so knowing that she was there kind of sealed the deal for me. Like I said earlier, it’s a shame he won’t get his Modano moment. The man’s earned one.
"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."
Canes Now post on this here. It ends with this:
“It’s the first time our trainer ever remembers him coming off the ice and going into the training room with an injury,” Maurice said. “So this is not good.”
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 9, 2010 12:19 PM EDT up reply actions
Brind'Amour and Groin Injury
Brind’Amour has shown an incredible pain thresh hold over his career. It sounds ominous for Brind’Amour. I assumed when his mother and father were both attending the game last night that Brind’Amour and Jim Rutherford had reached an understanding that Brind’Amour would retire or be bought out as soon as this season ended.
Samson has been extremely impressive and Boston is a great match up for Samson. If he can play a physical checking game against Boston, he will have made a big step toward a roster spot next season — certainly not a guaranteed spot; but the credence to be looked at hard by a coaching staff and GM and Assistant GM during the pre-season.
My buddy mentioned it to me first (DBSJ, I’m giving credit here) and I agree with him, I think Brindy being in the starting line up was a thank you for the years of service and a farewell.
I just wish JR would have given up Ray Whitney for Lent.
OT: JR checks out the top 3
Lots of insight into the mind of JR within today’s Southeast Report at nhl.com.
I like the fact that he’s checking out the top-3 talent for himself.
Swing for the fences, JR.
Thank you for beating the Habs!
Join the NLL community at http://www.nationallacrosseleagueblog.blogspot.com/
by bestbostonsports on Apr 9, 2010 5:32 PM EDT reply actions
Its too bad Ward was hurt earlier in the year. I really think the Canes would be a playoff contender if it wern’t for s few injuries.
Join the NLL community at http://www.nationallacrosseleagueblog.blogspot.com/
by bestbostonsports on Apr 9, 2010 5:52 PM EDT up reply actions
Injuries versus Slow, Uninspired Veterans and Early Season Scoring Slump
There is no question the injuries to Staal, Cam Ward, Pitkanen, and Jokinen at the start of the season hurt the team and contributed significantly to the very poor start. The poor start was further exacerbated by the much less than stellar and far from inspired play by Aaron Ward, Brind’Amour, Yelle, and Wallin. Harrison wound up getting tons of minutes and struggled with puck handling and defensive zone coverage. All five players, A. Ward, Brind’Amour, Yelle, Wallin, and Harrison were slow-footed and couldn’t keep up with the rest of the team.
Adding to the misery was the fact that Samsonov, Cole, and LaRose all got of to very, very slow starts. LaRose then hurt his knee. Cole wound up getting hurt. It was a miserable first twenty to thirty games. Once Sutter became a fixture on the team, and once the younger, faster, more committed players were called up, the Hurricanes were transformed into a competitive team with relentless determination.
I think Boston has developed a system for long-term success. I suspect Boston will wind up with Seguin; and basically stole Burke and Toronto blind with the Kessel trade. Seguin the kind of player around which a team can build a franchise. Kessel is a scorer who lacks enough of the physical game to be a top 15 player. I’d much rather have Staal than Kessel, for example.
we didn’t beat them… we SLAUGHTERED them :)
by silent_shadow36 on Apr 9, 2010 5:58 PM EDT up reply actions
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