Clicks and Clippings: Transition game

by Carolyn Christians on Nov 22, 2011 5:14 PM EST in Hurricanes Newsstand

All-star center and Canes-killer Claude Giroux gets knocked off his skates as he pursues the puck by rookie Defenseman Justin Faulk, who was playing in just his 6th NHL game.

Two weeks ago, the Carolina Hurricanes 2011-12 Season was full of uncertainty. And then it got worse. And worse again. While no one is pretending the team is out of the woods (especially if they are checking the Conference standings), at least this two-game win streak gives us a break from the free fall. Whether the Canes will complete this transition and put together a solid series of wins in what remains of the month of November is still to be seen.

UPDATE (8:45pm) - Cam Ward was interviewed on Hockey Night in Canada Radio this afternoon [AUDIO - 12:40]. Ward talks about Paul Maurice, the last couple weeks and how it's been. Jeff Skinner, Team Canada in 2014. ★★★★★

Chip Alexander saw something symbolic in the highlight reel from the game last night: Like Skinner in Philly, Canes turning it around - Canes Now As for Jeff Skinner's goal, ...suffice it to say he spun around Kimmo Timonen, leaving one of the league's best defensemen flatfooted, got off a shot and then poked in the rebound. ★★★★★

"Coming through the neutral zone, I didn't think I had any speed, so I tried to generate a little by turning it around," Skinner said.

Another look at that gorgeous move, plus updates on Ryan Murphy, more on Mo, Staal and Ward as Fantasy plays, and a little levity at the end (cause, Lord knows, we could use that around here.)

Because you can't watch this too many times: Jeff Skinner Spin-O-Rama Goal:

Looking at the Philadelphia Flyers postgame reaction, we've also seen this before. Hubris is a dangerous thing: Timonen: Flyers had 'no energy' - Philadelphia Inquirer For the second straight game, the Flyers lost to one of the Eastern Conference's worst teams. ★★★

Ryan Murphy Updates

Another key component to the Hurricanes future is also in a much better situation than he was a few weeks back: Notes from the Kitchener Rangers - The Waterloo Record

Ryan Murphy looked sharp skating with assistant coach Troy Smith at the Aud Monday morning. The Carolina Hurricanes draft pick flew to Raleigh, North Carolina later in the afternoon to consult with team doctors. The 18-year-old was knocked out of action more than two weeks ago when he was hit by Niagara’s Tom Kuhnhackl at the Aud. He’s hoping to be cleared by doctors to return.

UPDATE (Tuesday morning): Chip Alexander spoke with Murphy when he was in Raleigh yesterday: Canes' Faulk plays; Murphy recovers -NewsObserver.com ★★★★

Pete Friesen said the extensive evaluation Tuesday would help determine when Murphy can return to playing.

"It's tough to say right now when I can play," Murphy said. "I want to get back as soon as possible but not at risk."

And from Kitchener this morning, Mike Farwell, @farwell590:

#OHLRangers D Ryan Murphy expected to resume full contact in practice today.

Everybody's Favorite Topic: Paul Maurice

This story has been in the works since Thursday but was published this morning at ESPN.com Crucial period ahead for Carolina Hurricanes - Scott Burnside ★★★★★

He knows fans in this market want change, and specifically, they are asking for Maurice's head. "If you don't have fans with lots of opinions, you're not in a very good market," Rutherford said.

Unlike many of his peers Rutherford, in the 18th year of his tenure with this franchise, has been tasked with not just building a team but building a market. Over the years he has planted the seeds and tended to the fan base as you would a prized garden. He knows there is no fertilizer quite like success and right now the 'Canes are anything but successful.
Monday: Paul Maurice's future - Kurt Dusterberg, HurricanesBeat.com Would Firing Maurice Solve Anything? ★★★★
Also Monday, an interview from Sunday night when Toronto media came to town: Canes' Maurice not worried about job security - Mike Brophy, Sportsnet.ca Paul Maurice doesn't live every second worrying about job security. That's just how it is when you have coached more than 1,000 NHL games. ★★★★

Luke DeCock covered the Canes for the N&O during the first Maurice tenure, stayed through the Laviolette turn at the wheel, before the beat reporter assignment was given to Chip Alexander at the beginning of the 2009-10 season. DeCock's voice continues to resonate with many in the hockey world as his focus on the Hurricanes has intensified again in recent months.

Friday evening: Hurricanes Looking To Turnaround Ship - ESPN Video: Scott Burnside and the N&O's Luke DeCock on Hurricanes struggles [3:49] ★★★★
Story from the N&O print edition Friday morning: Fans file 'Mo'-tion to dismiss - Luke DeCock, NewsObserver.com ★★★

Amid all those similarities, the biggest change is the way fans feel about Maurice. Eight years ago, most fans didn't know any better. They had never known any other coach. Now, they have. They have seen the Stanley Cup. They're savvier about the game of hockey. And they're tired of all the losing.

Spotlight on Canes players

The Real Spiel: Staal still valuable despite slow start - NHL.com's Fantasy News The Hurricanes have often gone from slumping to unbeatable status in recent years and Eric Staal has just as often been the reason why. Stay patient and enjoy the eventual rewards. ★★★★
More about Fantasy Pool Value then anything, but.....Cam Ward: From Meltdown to Rebound - The Goalie Guild ★★★

Over the past few weeks, I notice Cam Ward is not as "set and ready" as usual. He’s sliding through his angles, pushing through his destination points, and moving a lot more than usual. This is due to a number of things, including a lack of confidence in – and support from – his defensemen, a lack of focus due to frustration and the internal pressure to win.

The 5 Players who’ve taken the most shots this season….without scoring | Backhand Shelf, theScore.com How come Tomas Kaberle, Joe Corvo and Dennis Seidenberg can't seem to separate themselves? ★★★
Red Light District: First quarter all-underachieving team - Eric Staal and Tomas Kaberle: Come on Down! ★★★

Phoblographer at work

Canes vs. Leafs 11.20.2011 - Jamie Kellner. The set includes the celebration of the first Canes goal scored after being shut out for 154 minutes by none other than the Canes newest Norris Trophy candidate Jay Harrison, as rookie Justin Faulk gets his first NHL point with the helper.

via Jamie Kellner

For the recent games (still in progress) check out: Jamie Kellner's Photo sets for the Carolina Hurricanes

Stats geeks have at it

Alumni

Montreal Canadiens Erik Cole finally clicking with new linemates - Hockey Independent ★★★★ with a video clip (below) from the French broadcast captioned by a Habs blogger thusly:

Erik Cole is mocking his former teammate Tuomo Ruutu who was sitting in the penalty box after a tripping call. He also reminded him that he signed a four-year, $18-million free agent deal in the summer with Montreal.

Did you see this moment last Wednesday night? (I didn't) Do you think Cole is mocking Ruutu? Keep an eye out tomorrow night at the RBC Center for more teasing, and going both ways - which I don't for a moment think was (or will be) malicious.

The Charlotte Checkers and other Prospects

Boychuk Back Later than Expected - Paul Branecky, goCheckers.com "It was awesome," Zach Boychuk said of his most recent NHL experience. "I was expecting to go up for one game to fill in for Stewart, but one game turned into two and two turned into a month." ★★★★

Charlotte Checkers Weekly Report - goCheckers.com ★★★★ Chock full of information, starting with:

Overall record: 10-6-2 (Home 5-1-1 | Road 5-5-1)

Last week's record: 1-0-1 | Last 10 games: 5-4-1

Standings: 1st Midwest Division | 3rd Western Conference

In the pipeline: Keegan Lowe vs Cam Braes, Nov 19, 2011 - Edmonton Oil Kings vs Lethbridge Hurricanes - hockeyfights.com (The Canes 3rd round pick Keegan Lowe is #4 in white) ★★★

Other NHL Coaches under scrutiny:

We're at the 20 game mark of the season. As happens every year, the head coaches of any and all teams that are not performing as expected are subject to scrutiny by the media. Here are five for starters. (And this list doesn't even include the Islanders or Blue Jackets. Or the Hurricanes, for that matter.)

I clipped the phrases that seemed to me to echo local conversations. But please read the entire articles if you have the time. Maybe one of these guys will be available sooner than later?

Washington: Would firing Bruce Boudreau make the Capitals a better team? - Puck Daddy Wyshynski begins by telling the story of what transpired four years ago this week.

So McPhee fired [Hanlon], and he promoted a cherubic farm-hand from the AHL named Bruce Boudreau on an interim basis.

At the time, Hanlon's firing was viewed by veteran players as a result of their own failures. Said Olaf Kolzig to the Washington Post: "It was pretty evident what we were doing wrong, and we went right back out in the second period [Wednesday] and did the exact the same thing. That has nothing to do with coaching, and has everything to do with individuals not listening and being on their own program."

Colorado: Krieger: Avs' front office a big part of team's troubles - The Denver Post

Speculation around the team is all about Joe Sacco, the club's third-year coach, because that's how it works in the NHL. Something wrong? Anything at all? Fire the coach. Hot dogs too cold? Beer too warm? Restroom lines too long? Fire the coach. Has Jacques Lemaire gotten bored with retirement yet?

Montreal: Jacques Martin rides Canadiens rollercoaster - Montreal Gazette

In Montreal, Martin’s personnel choices and line-juggling puzzle some, enrage others. The can-do-better crowd would now have struggling Scott Gomez in the minors, Tomas Plekanec off the power-play point forever, and every observer can form four productive lines that can be rolled effectively.

Detroit: "Do we want to be a good team or not?" Yes. Yes you do. - Winging It In Motown

So does that mean the players have tuned Babcock out? That sure seems to be the prevailing thought, and that's going to be tougher to get back. Now is the time where you either show that you're the coach we think you are, the guy who can lead this team back to the promised land, or we find that you're simply a guy who inherited a great team and you've lost the room.

Calgary: Time Running Out For Brent Sutter? - The Hockey Writers

With the Flames, Sutter simply does not have the type of team that can win those tight-knit, low-scoring games. The defensemen aren’t good enough to keep opponents at bay, and when they do fall behind, the forwards aren’t good enough to rescue it.

Loose Change

This thing seemed like a much bigger deal last year, didn't it? 2012 All-Star Fan Balloting Week 1 leaders. Look at all those Ottawa Senators!
Hockeymom special: Grange on Crosby: His father's eyes - Michael Grange, sportsnet.ca ★★★★★

Troy Crosby doesn't pretend being Sidney Crosby's Dad is no big deal. He doesn't walk around with a sign, but he doesn't take it for granted. His daughter plays hockey at a high school in Minnesota, and Troy watches her whenever he can too, but it admits it's different: "She's a goalie, I'm a nervous wreck."

Keeping an ear to the ground on the CBA negotiations: Chicago Blackhawks: NHL players closely watching NBA lockout - chicagotribune.com Hawks general manager Stan Bowman believes with a salary cap already in place, the process in '12 should be smoother. ★★★

At long last, a little (long-awaited) levity

NHL's Critics Find No Evidence That Penalty Box Reforms Players | The Onion Sports Network ★★★★★

TORONTO - After performing an in-depth 15-year study of professional hockey penalties, penalization practices, and the behavior of penalized players, independent hockey-law reform group JustIce concluded this week that the NHL's use of the penalty box does "absolutely nothing whatsoever" in the long term to deter players from committing violations.

Thanks to the Canes own Michael Smith for the link: How to Pronounce Carolina Hurricanes NHL Hockey. He said his favorite was Zach Boychuk. And, yep, it's good. Personally, Chad LaRose got me giggling. ★★★★★

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Comments

I loved that Onion story. Good links, thanks HMo2! (sry I’m still old school)

by rubyhawk on Nov 22, 2011 5:50 PM EST reply actions

wait -- The Onion's not a real media outlet?!?!?

Of Maurice, Karmanos said: "I’m happy Paul is back but he’s going to be judged the same way as any other coach. We need to win more consistently."

by Sergeant Stinky on Nov 23, 2011 5:53 AM EST up reply actions

Lots of good stuff to digest. Great job! I particularly liked Kurt Dusterberg’s comments. He makes sense and I agree with his take.
Cringe every time I hear the words Luke DeCock and hockey in the same sentence. This may come across as harsh to some but in my mind Luke simply does not have a true feel for the sport. He is a good sports journalist in other sports and again, purely my opinion, he should stick to those he truly knows something about.

by sittler27 on Nov 22, 2011 6:33 PM EST reply actions

I respectfully disagree about DeCock, if only for the fact that he is more like media in a major market. He is not simply a mouthpiece for the organization like every other major journalist in this market is. Every time I hear Gold and Ovias (sp?) sack swing from JR and PK’s equipment I want to jump through my Radio and don’t even get me started on McSackerjack on the aftermath and storm front. I keep expecting him to start denouncing Goldstein and " Our Eurasian Enemies ". DeCock’s message is not controlled by the offices on Edwards Mill Rd, and for that I am thankful.

I believe in strength. I believe in unity. And if that strength, that unity of purpose, demands a uniformity of thought, word and deed then so be it.

by Douchebag St John on Nov 22, 2011 6:46 PM EST up reply actions

Luke is a bit more..ahem…direct than Chip Alexander, that’s for sure :-0

Of Maurice, Karmanos said: "I’m happy Paul is back but he’s going to be judged the same way as any other coach. We need to win more consistently."

by Sergeant Stinky on Nov 22, 2011 7:26 PM EST up reply actions

OK… he’s an uncontrolled mouthpiece that waxes eloquently about a sport he has no subtle feel for….. better? Sorry I’m truly not a fan and it has nothing to do about whether or not he talks the company line. When he gets into the finer details of the sport in my opinion he’s not on a level with true hockey writers and not even close to major hockey market guys. Unfortunately in this market hockey isn’t yet important enough to warrant a true hockey beat analyst/writer.

by sittler27 on Nov 22, 2011 9:41 PM EST up reply actions

That is the real issue. Hockey here doesn’t warrant hiring a true hockey journalist. It’s better than it used to be. Luke was a step up from that first guy they had covering the Canes. The N&O should look at one of our fine main contributors !

by Hockeydog on Nov 23, 2011 10:30 AM EST up reply actions

What makes a “true hockey journalist”? I’m not sure how many “hockey journalists” have the experience of playing pro hockey.

Luke is a columnist and by definition he’s going to be writing something provocative — particularly when his stance does not line up with your own. Opinion pieces aren’t “right or wrong”.

If Luke wrote crappy or inaccurate game articles, then perhaps someone could rightfully call into question his ability, but he’s a columnist so it’s a different situation.

He’s had some huge misses — the time he took PK to task for not being willing to “compete” out of the lockout – the very season his team won the Stanley Cup. I’m sure he’d agree that was a huge miss. But that comes with the territory. Maybe he’s wrong on his take of Maurice, but I guess time will tell that as well. Hindsight is a great thing, but he doesn’t have the luxury (well in Mo’s case, he kind of does).

by efrancis on Nov 23, 2011 10:53 AM EST up reply actions

PS

I never found any issue with Luke’s coverage when he was the beat writer. I don’t always agree with his columns, but that’s to be expected.

by efrancis on Nov 23, 2011 11:11 AM EST up reply actions

I always felt Luke was a fine reporter. Someone saying he’s not smart enough about hockey sounds like typical “northern” bias against non-traditional hockey market BS that we’ve been hearing ad nauseum since Day One. It’s not brain surgery.
And Luke was a huge step-up from the previous folks.

by drifterscape on Nov 23, 2011 11:23 AM EST up reply actions

And look grew up in Chicago did he not? Watching the Blackhawks?

by efrancis on Nov 23, 2011 11:24 AM EST up reply actions

So here is my concern. By all means talk about things like ownership, etc. But when you start to analyse systems, player performance you better know what you are talking about and understand the sport. I have played golf with Luke and I also have direct access to others in the sport who have been around him. The questions he asked and comments he made about how I got scars and injuries and my feelings on those showed a real lack of understanding the warrior mentality of what it takes to play collision sports like hockey and football. His take was like asking Tony Stewart if he worried about losing his life by racing at high speeds. I also saw how the hockey community and fellow journalists interacted with him at the All Star break. His is a definite outsider.

I agree he is a fine reporter. But how does me stating the fact that is obvious to every insider in one particular sport that he is not hockey savvy qualify as “northern” bias BS? If you are a Bob Mckenzie or Ed Olcyk or one of dozens of good hockey analysts/reporters you not only rely on your own observations but you also tap into your colleagues in all geographic markets and various media to obtain information. You also know what questions to ask of players and how to ask them. No doubt Luke has that in some sports but he doesn’t in hockey.

So I take his comments with a grain of salt. I suppose that makes me a typical arrogant northerner that spilled his blood and tore up his body countless times in and for the sport. And obviously since as “driftscape says” it isn’t brain surgery", also makes me a dumb jock.

by sittler27 on Nov 23, 2011 12:52 PM EST up reply actions

His is a definite outsider.

Is that such a bad thing though? To open a greater can of worms, isn’t one the sport’s problems the " You’re not a " hockey person " " attitude?

I believe in strength. I believe in unity. And if that strength, that unity of purpose, demands a uniformity of thought, word and deed then so be it.

by Douchebag St John on Nov 23, 2011 1:02 PM EST up reply actions

I would think many a beat writer in the states would not measure up to Ed Olcyk or McKenzie and their contacts.

I accept your opinion, it’s clearly formed in situations that are more personal than most readers would ever be exposed to.

by efrancis on Nov 23, 2011 1:26 PM EST up reply actions

oops, meant to reply to sittler, not DSJ.

by efrancis on Nov 23, 2011 1:26 PM EST up reply actions

Just the way this forum threads out. Its exceptionally hard to follow sometimes.

I believe in strength. I believe in unity. And if that strength, that unity of purpose, demands a uniformity of thought, word and deed then so be it.

by Douchebag St John on Nov 23, 2011 2:01 PM EST up reply actions

I threw Eddie O in there because he was born in Chicago and has built a lot of his fan base in the US. He is a really great guy and in my opinion has an exceptional hockey mind.

Interestingly enough, while I had a hard time stomaching Jeremy Roenick as a player, he often breaks down plays, systems and dynamics in a refreshing and informative manner. Again a US born guy and to my mind better than say Melrose.

Of course no one can match Tripp.

by sittler27 on Nov 23, 2011 5:19 PM EST up reply actions

Spare me the drama of a perceived personal attack by my “brain surgery” comment.
The comment referenced Luke being qualified to be hockey reporter. Sorry he makes you cringe so much.
You’re quick to point out your qualifications to speak about hockey. And they are impeccable to say the least. But I am a 50-something adult who served 4 years in the military and have a Mechanical Engineering degree. And that qualifies Me to talk about anything, including commenting on all the so-called Hockey experts who denigrate the very people they should have the brains to see that they need to grow the sport.

by drifterscape on Nov 23, 2011 3:13 PM EST up reply actions

thank you for your service

from the proud son of a WWI veteran of the USMC

Of Maurice, Karmanos said: "I’m happy Paul is back but he’s going to be judged the same way as any other coach. We need to win more consistently."

by Sergeant Stinky on Nov 23, 2011 3:48 PM EST up reply actions

sorry, WWII, I'm not THAT old...

Of Maurice, Karmanos said: "I’m happy Paul is back but he’s going to be judged the same way as any other coach. We need to win more consistently."

by Sergeant Stinky on Nov 23, 2011 3:48 PM EST up reply actions

I bow to your superiority. You are no doubt qualified to comment on anything from hockey to quantum physics. I am out of my depth and leave with barely a wimper.

by sittler27 on Nov 23, 2011 5:08 PM EST up reply actions

Drifterscape…. all playfull banter aside, I too am thankful for your service. I am a former Canadian and my Father lost his Dad and brother on the beaches of Normandy. I never had the chance to meet them since I was not born until many years later. My cousin is a career soldier with the Cdn. military and is currently serving with the UN forces in Afganistan. I think about him daily and pray for his safe return.

by sittler27 on Nov 23, 2011 5:53 PM EST up reply actions

No hard feeelings. I’m wasn’t playing the ‘military service card’. We all do what we have to do.

by drifterscape on Nov 23, 2011 10:59 PM EST up reply actions

Luke DeCock: Dennis the Menace
sittler27: Mr. Wilson, his crotchety old neighbor

Of Maurice, Karmanos said: "I’m happy Paul is back but he’s going to be judged the same way as any other coach. We need to win more consistently."

by Sergeant Stinky on Nov 23, 2011 3:54 PM EST up reply actions

Hmmm…..was thinking more like Luke Skywalker and Darth Vader.

by sittler27 on Nov 23, 2011 5:09 PM EST up reply actions

Anybody else think in that video that Erik Cole looks a little like Dick Dastardly with that new mustache of his?

Ready for the Canes to win the Cup again! :)

by thebl4ckd0g on Nov 22, 2011 7:05 PM EST reply actions

He just needs a top hat and a girl tied to rail road tracks, it would be perfect at that point.

I believe in strength. I believe in unity. And if that strength, that unity of purpose, demands a uniformity of thought, word and deed then so be it.

by Douchebag St John on Nov 22, 2011 7:30 PM EST up reply actions

What about Mutley?

Dick Dastardly is not the same without his four legged sidekick. (is this what is wrong with Staal?)

by dgoose on Nov 22, 2011 10:47 PM EST up reply actions

Anybody else think that Potvin was right about Cole being a "diver"?

Several years ago Denis Potvin used his bully pulpit as colorman for the Florida Panthers and regular appearances on XM radio to proclaim Eric as the biggest diver in the NHL I brushed it off as a sign of impending dementia. One night a couple years later Eric was here playing for Edmonton. I watched Eric perform a perfect swan dive and draw a penalty. Would that explain the smirk on Cole’s face after the tripping call on Ruutu?

by surgalt on Nov 23, 2011 8:58 AM EST up reply actions

According to the PBP, the penalty for tripping for Ruutu was drawn by Subban.

PENL CAR #15 RUUTU Tripping(2 min), Off. Zone Drawn By: MTL #76 SUBBAN

I don’t think Cole is a diver more so than most players. He skates hard and fast and goes down hard when he goes. Not saying he’s never embellished, but I don’t think most NHL players can make that claim. I thought during that time period (with the Panthers) he was not embellishing. I remember even thinking he may have just fallen awkwardly (as Cole has been known to do) as opposed to purposely trying to draw anything.

by efrancis on Nov 23, 2011 9:16 AM EST up reply actions

it should also be noted " Beat your wife, Potvin, Beat your wife, CLAP CLAP!" that was for my buddy Marc, and all you other rag fans who may be lurking.

by wylde4canes on Nov 23, 2011 9:30 AM EST up reply actions

You know what’s strange, I went up to see the Canes play the Rangers a couple of years ago, and they still chant that little ditty.

by CanesFanFromLI on Nov 23, 2011 1:19 PM EST up reply actions

Not to go too way-back but : Cole’s rookie season (2001-02) he was a notorious diver. His first couple of months it got embarrassing. I think somebody must have talked to him as he got it under control by mid-year.
It could still be there lurking in the background.

by drifterscape on Nov 23, 2011 11:32 AM EST up reply actions

Well it took me a while

but i finally got caught up as we were uber busy prepairing for Thanksgiving. And I do once & yet again Thank you Miss Carolyn as this edition was jammed packed with all the things we Caniacs needed…Thank Yoy !! and while i too disagree many times with Luke deCock,we all must remember 2 things…1: he is the paid professional sports Journalist…2: none of us here are…but in the name of free speech ..he is more intuned with College BasketBall & Football thanPro Hockey ..but like many of us here who work for a living we do what our supervisors tell us to do…or we don’t have a job these days do we ?

9/11/01 - Never Forget !!
Long Live #63 The Condor
Go Canes & Checkers !!!

by CaniacSteve on Nov 22, 2011 10:01 PM EST reply actions

Also...

We are still on the front page of ESPN’s NHL page tonight…

http://espn.go.com/nhl/

nice pic of Paul Maurice…couple good links.

Ready for the Canes to win the Cup again! :)

by thebl4ckd0g on Nov 22, 2011 11:09 PM EST reply actions

though I disagree with Scott Burnside's comments on Cam Ward...

" to struggling netminder Cam Ward "

I’m not sure which Cam Ward Scott Burnside is watching, but it’s not Cam Ward of the ‘Canes. He’s been our best player this season. Again. It’s the rest of the team hanging him out to dry.

Ready for the Canes to win the Cup again! :)

by thebl4ckd0g on Nov 22, 2011 11:11 PM EST up reply actions

That came up on twitter today too. I think Ward was not himself starting in the Caps game. He was off vs the Rangers. This isn’t blaming him for the troubles at all, but I think the observations that I quoted from the goalie guru at Goalie Guild are very true. He was pulled twice, and the Montreal game was a disaster to watch for the whole squad. His stats reflect that.

Maurice framed it that he was overwhelmed by trying to overcome the deficiencies of the defense – trying to be superman every night. He’d lost his natural calm. Prior to his night off for Buffalo, I don’t think he was at the top of his game. I think he’s quickly come around as the D improved and he’s just fine now.

Twitter @HMof2

by Carolyn Christians on Nov 22, 2011 11:18 PM EST up reply actions

No, he’s been struggling. His last few games have been fantastic for him, though. But the games prior to the Buffalo game that Boucher started were terrible for him. Maybe he was left out to dry a lot, but he wasn’t his usual self and let in quite a few questionable goals. That is the reason why Boucher was started against Buffalo in the first place.

by hurricane9 on Nov 23, 2011 10:42 AM EST up reply actions

And I meant to say thank you for the headsup on this Eric Staal piece from Scott Burnside.

Eric Staal at center of Canes struggles.

Twitter @HMof2

by Carolyn Christians on Nov 22, 2011 11:23 PM EST up reply actions

The Benefit of Eric Staal Struggling

One thing that has hurt the Hurricanes, I think, is the tendency to rely too much on Staal. The terrible start by Staal has forced other players to assert themselves more on the ice. I realize, of course, that if Staal were tearing up the NHL, the Hurricanes would have won more games and that now the hole is quite deep. I am thinking long-term; and the Hurricanes know they can win even when Staal is in a deep slump.

It may not pay many dividends this season; but some season when the Hurricanes are in the battle for a playoff spot, the lessons learned by the core team members will make a difference.

by abramsdoug on Nov 23, 2011 12:17 AM EST up reply actions

That 4-0 loss to Montreal may turn out to be the best thing to happen to the Canes this season. I hope we look back on it, as embarrassing as it was, as exactly the swift kick in the ass that we needed.

I think tomorrow night may well be the most important game of the season.

We win three in a row and revenge the loss – a seminal event serving as a launching point for recovering our season. Even if we don’t make the playoffs, we still beat Philly in Philly for the first time in 3 years and then turned around and bitch slapped Montreal. If we can do it with the same grace that we just showed against Philly, the turkey will taste just that much better.

We lose, especially if we don’t show up again, and…“people” are going to continue to question our pedigree…our professional character…talk about moving the team somewhere it can be successful. Talking about us on the national stage no less. Both nations. Or even worse, quit talking about us at all…dismissed.

We need this win tomorrow night no matter how the rest of the season shakes out.

by coastalcaniac on Nov 23, 2011 1:18 AM EST reply actions

I would respectfully point out that of the next 4 games, we play 2 SE division teams. I would think those two wins would be slightly ahead of this Montreal game in terms of must-wins, especially with the Craps and Lightning having difficulties. It seems as if the division is opening up a bit in terms of potentially not having a definitive front runner. There is an opportunity, however slight, of winning the SE this season that should not be overlooked.

That said, for the team psyche, I would imagine beating Montreal would be good medicine. Unfortunately, I don’t see any major changes to the Montreal team since we last played them (i.e. stars out injured) that would point to an advantage for us. We have been playing better, that’s true, so I guess you never know.

I’m just feeling we come up a few goals short tonight.

Of Maurice, Karmanos said: "I’m happy Paul is back but he’s going to be judged the same way as any other coach. We need to win more consistently."

by Sergeant Stinky on Nov 23, 2011 5:52 AM EST up reply actions

Aye, there's the rub...

We win three in a row and revenge the loss – a seminal event serving as a launching point for recovering our season. Even if we don’t make the playoffs, we still beat Philly in Philly for the first time in 3 years and then turned around and bitch slapped Montreal. If we can do it with the same grace that we just showed against Philly, the turkey will taste just that much better.

We’ve been through this before this season…after a rough start we won three in a row…just check the fan poll to see the excitement. THEN we tanked and got worse instead of following the same path with speed, effort and hitting that won those three games. And yet these up and down efforts have been characteristic of Mo coached teams forever. Puck Daddy in his interview touched on tis same subject.

i think one of the reasons we haven’t seen the CheeryMcSunshine optimism come back with our two wins and three games of looking decent is the fear of claiming we’ve turned the corner only to see us go back and tank again. We’re probably aren’t a bottom three team, but neither are we a top three team. Mo’s line tamperings, running the same players out, no 4th line, no forward prospects getting time are not changing.

With this coach, with this team, this fanbase has a very high degree of skepticism towards Mo and what direction we will unltimately go this year, so it’s hard to get excited about short term trends…

…a Third win would help, but as I mentioned, we’ve been there before. What happens After the next game, and the game after that, and so on is a larger concern for all.

by Squeaky83 on Nov 23, 2011 9:19 AM EST up reply actions

Yeah, I think the next 4 games are crucial, too. It’s just that I think, psychologically, a win over Montreal will go a long way towards getting us out of our funk. Haven’t you felt it lately? Mo’s face immediately after the Philly win was one of pure joy and relief. Now I know you’re gonna say, “well, yeah, because he just kept his job for a couple more games”. And that’s probably part of it. But no man likes to be embarrassed and ridiculed. And we need to revenge that. Ideally, we win, Ruu puts Cole in a hurt locker, and we have people wondering, if only for Turkey Day, whether or not we can pull off a rebirth. Baby steps.

As far as the CherryMcSunshine thing – it’s OK to feel good about our team, even if you end up getting hurt later. That’s love and hockey, man. Look at Stinky. He takes so much heat on these boards, but there is no more passionate fan. The pain that man has in his heart over this team…. But he’s always here. I say, if you have the stomach for it, get on that roller coaster and ride until you turn green. And then get back on. Even if we aren’t known for winning, let’s at least be known for never giving up, never boo’ing our Canes. I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, I’m thankful we have a hockey team down here in the South. We’re so lucky.

by coastalcaniac on Nov 23, 2011 9:43 AM EST reply actions

Gammit !! Does anyone know how to move a post so it goes under the right stream?

by coastalcaniac on Nov 23, 2011 9:45 AM EST up reply actions

No Cheery McSunshine’s? Here’s why….

http://en.wiktionary.org/wiki/one_swallow_does_not_make_a_summer

by rmmeli on Nov 23, 2011 9:49 AM EST up reply actions

So I haven't checked, but.....

Is Cheery McSunshine in our O-fishul canes country dictio-manary yet?

by wylde4canes on Nov 23, 2011 10:03 AM EST reply actions

Hey Mo!

Things you should be thankful tomorrow when you sit at the table:

1. Still having a job.
2. Being JR’s best bud.
3. PK believes you are a hockey god.
4. Still having a job.

Amen.

by WStout on Nov 23, 2011 1:08 PM EST reply actions

Some people see the glass half full, some people see the glass half empty.

I am convinced you look at the glass and say “****ing glass, I hate you!”

by wylde4canes on Nov 23, 2011 1:28 PM EST up reply actions 1 recs

Well said. Unfortnately, not accurate.
I want the girl, the goldwatch, and everything.
Half full or half empty is a moot point.

I want the gallon of wine that is being poured.

Do or do not. There is no try.

by WStout on Nov 23, 2011 1:32 PM EST up reply actions

I am convinced you look at the glass and say "****ing glass, I hate you!"

I like this. Blame the glass for a half-ass effort lol!

The only easy day was yesterday.

by CoastalCane on Nov 23, 2011 4:57 PM EST up reply actions

no. 1-A. Having 14k or thereabouts paying, cheering fans with butts in seats game after game of your repeated .500 seasons.

Of Maurice, Karmanos said: "I’m happy Paul is back but he’s going to be judged the same way as any other coach. We need to win more consistently."

by Sergeant Stinky on Nov 23, 2011 3:51 PM EST up reply actions

Amen Brother Stink

Testify!!!!

by WStout on Nov 23, 2011 4:19 PM EST up reply actions

Imagine Mo in Philly

Gleaned from the Flyers sighted referenced above:

“Laviolette’s “system” needs to be questioned at this point. Why are these guys always listless and not ready to play? Injuries no excuse. pittsburgh has played almost the past year without Crosby, Malkin and Staal and didn’t skip a beat. Now they are all back and we are in trouble" — debbyt

Note: the Flyers are in 4th place with 14 of the 20 points available in their last 10 games.

by surgalt on Nov 23, 2011 1:26 PM EST reply actions

I’m not sure what debbyt is worried about. They are 2 points behind the Pens with 1 game in hand, 3rd in the East. Sounds like she’s chalking up losses that haven’t even occurred yet.

by efrancis on Nov 23, 2011 1:28 PM EST up reply actions

Yeah…gee…wish we had that problem.

by WStout on Nov 23, 2011 1:45 PM EST up reply actions

Appreciate the links.

I was kind of hoping we would take a shot on Bergfors since there’s little risk involved but it looks like he cleared waivers.

www.shutdownline.com

by MyFriendCorey on Nov 23, 2011 2:45 PM EST reply actions

Would he be an option on re-entry waivers? (Or does he qualify for those?) Also, is he on his way to Milwaukee, in which case I will likely see him when I’m at the Checkers game Sunday.

Twitter @HMof2

by Carolyn Christians on Nov 23, 2011 3:47 PM EST up reply actions

Bergfors

I wondered about Bergfors. I heard from a couple of hockey writers who commented that Bergfors has a terrible attitude and was very rude to the sports writers. If true, the Hurricanes don’t need a problem child.

by abramsdoug on Nov 23, 2011 4:10 PM EST up reply actions

We don’t need another project.

Twitter @HMof2

by Carolyn Christians on Nov 23, 2011 4:41 PM EST up reply actions

You’ve convinced me. NO to Bergfors.

by abramsdoug on Nov 24, 2011 9:49 AM EST up reply actions

He sounds like another Zherdev situation. I’ve always liked him, though and claiming him would be little to no risk for the team so that’s why I was considering it. The fact that no team claimed him might say something about his work ethic/attitude, though.

www.shutdownline.com

by MyFriendCorey on Nov 23, 2011 10:16 PM EST up reply actions