Hurricanes at Lightning: Open Game Thread
by Brian LeBlanc on Jan 12, 2012 7:00 PM EST
in Carolina Hurricanes Open Game Threads
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PrintCarolina Hurricanes at Tampa Bay Lightning, Jan 12, 2012 7:30 PM EST
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hey everybody
I feel bad as the checkers could have used him tonight too and the checkers do lead the bears 1-0
9/11/01 - Never Forget !!
Long Live #63 The Condor
Go Canes & Checkers !!!
go
Canes! Win anyway…
"Forget about style; worry about results."
Bobby Orr
by Caniac233 on Jan 12, 2012 7:35 PM EST via iPhone app reply actions
at the end of one period Checkers lead hershey 2-0
9/11/01 - Never Forget !!
Long Live #63 The Condor
Go Canes & Checkers !!!
we be here !! wooo hooo still no score
9/11/01 - Never Forget !!
Long Live #63 The Condor
Go Canes & Checkers !!!
Sweet pass by Staal and nice top shelf shot by Ruutu!
Staal & Dalpe; The New Dynamic Duo or The Canes Crusaders!
by PackPride17 on Jan 12, 2012 7:46 PM EST via mobile reply actions
Wow
"Forget about style; worry about results."
Bobby Orr
by Caniac233 on Jan 12, 2012 7:48 PM EST via iPhone app reply actions
I had to laugh,but you are right !!!
9/11/01 - Never Forget !!
Long Live #63 The Condor
Go Canes & Checkers !!!
this
is the style of hockey that i love. much better than mo’s
Right on! The team is fun to watch again and it’s going to get better Sunday when Skinner comes back!
checkers vs bears
Checkers up 2-0. At the start of the second. Pistilli put in the insurance goal with ~20 seconds to go in the first.
Checkers have the momentum.
by Floods on Jan 12, 2012 7:53 PM EST via mobile reply actions
wooo hooo period 2 just starting
9/11/01 - Never Forget !!
Long Live #63 The Condor
Go Canes & Checkers !!!
bears cut it on half
Power play goal. Checkers killed a minute long 4 on 3 but surrendered the goal shortly after 5 on 4 resumed.
by Floods on Jan 12, 2012 8:08 PM EST via mobile up reply actions
If Brent had been Datsyuk....
He would have scored then!
The canes are playing tough tonight, some pretty good checks..Harrison with a bad penalty against downie
he ws ridding him kinda close
9/11/01 - Never Forget !!
Long Live #63 The Condor
Go Canes & Checkers !!!
it’s just bad timing. gotta kill this off, push for a shorty – need to knock the wind out of the building and ground the bolts
Megaweapon… Megaweapon… Megaweapon…
harrison did by smacking downie in the back of the hed !!
9/11/01 - Never Forget !!
Long Live #63 The Condor
Go Canes & Checkers !!!
that's why he needed to siit out on
harrisson scores as does hershey..canes lead 3-1 abd checkers led 2-1 on a PP goal
9/11/01 - Never Forget !!
Long Live #63 The Condor
Go Canes & Checkers !!!
or so "they" say...lol
just get the puck up and over him…
9/11/01 - Never Forget !!
Long Live #63 The Condor
Go Canes & Checkers !!!
harrison wooo hooo drops the gloves !!!
9/11/01 - Never Forget !!
Long Live #63 The Condor
Go Canes & Checkers !!!
I’m not a huge fan of him. Someone should knock’em on his butt
by CruelIn10tions on Jan 12, 2012 8:18 PM EST up reply actions
according to NHL News green for the caps on LTIR for a few weeks
9/11/01 - Never Forget !!
Long Live #63 The Condor
Go Canes & Checkers !!!
That was really one of the best period I’ve seen from the Canes in a long time. We were fast, won the battles, possessed the puck well, and did something we haven’t seen a lot this year; SCORE!!!
And I was really impressed by Staal’s play. He skated well, took some shots, made some great passes, and played very well in his own zone.
Let’s keep this up boys! Let’s make it a huge night; a turning point in the season.
Staal & Dalpe; The New Dynamic Duo or The Canes Crusaders!
by PackPride17 on Jan 12, 2012 8:29 PM EST via mobile reply actions
And I know we still have 2 period left, but this is worth mentioning. This is the first time in forever that Staal is not in last in the league in +/-.
Staal & Dalpe; The New Dynamic Duo or The Canes Crusaders!
by PackPride17 on Jan 12, 2012 8:38 PM EST via mobile up reply actions
Rick Nash is currently in last at – 22.
Staal & Dalpe; The New Dynamic Duo or The Canes Crusaders!
by PackPride17 on Jan 12, 2012 8:41 PM EST via mobile up reply actions
Don't let up!
Let’s not pull the MO crap of playing not to lose now!
Why are no penalties being called against Tampa?
by hurricane9 on Jan 12, 2012 8:47 PM EST via mobile reply actions
Must be the same crew we had when we played Philly
by CruelIn10tions on Jan 12, 2012 8:48 PM EST up reply actions
Peel did do the Philly game too
by hurricane9 on Jan 12, 2012 8:54 PM EST via mobile up reply actions
Is McBain trying to lose this game?
by hurricane9 on Jan 12, 2012 8:53 PM EST via mobile reply actions
I would like to see Joslin get a few games, with McBain being the healthy scratch..
by CruelIn10tions on Jan 12, 2012 8:56 PM EST up reply actions
The guy has some offensive abilities, but he makes a lot of poor defensive decisions.
Staal & Dalpe; The New Dynamic Duo or The Canes Crusaders!
by PackPride17 on Jan 12, 2012 8:58 PM EST via mobile up reply actions
Hershey ties it at 2-2 on a PP goal by former Checker McFlicker
and a face off goal by the bears now lead 3-2 in the 3rd
9/11/01 - Never Forget !!
Long Live #63 The Condor
Go Canes & Checkers !!!
The lightning are definitely getting their chances this period.
Staal & Dalpe; The New Dynamic Duo or The Canes Crusaders!
by PackPride17 on Jan 12, 2012 8:59 PM EST via mobile reply actions
Again Mcbain, It’s like his only way to clear the puck out of his own end is up the boards.
by CruelIn10tions on Jan 12, 2012 9:03 PM EST up reply actions
roloson has helped settle them down a bit
9/11/01 - Never Forget !!
Long Live #63 The Condor
Go Canes & Checkers !!!
seems the bolts are trying to kep the canes boxed in
9/11/01 - Never Forget !!
Long Live #63 The Condor
Go Canes & Checkers !!!
the canes have kept the b olts big guns off the score sheet tonight thus far huh ??
9/11/01 - Never Forget !!
Long Live #63 The Condor
Go Canes & Checkers !!!
Well the 2nd was definitely not as good as the 1st, but we’re going to enter the 3rd with a 2 goal lead. I just hope we can control the puck and maybe score 1 more for insurance.
Staal & Dalpe; The New Dynamic Duo or The Canes Crusaders!
by PackPride17 on Jan 12, 2012 9:13 PM EST via mobile reply actions
nice to see
all four lines getting ice time
checkers score !!! it's 4-3 goal by Boychuk with just over 1min to go
9/11/01 - Never Forget !!
Long Live #63 The Condor
Go Canes & Checkers !!!
By Naoko twitter...
Julien says coaches heard about Cammalleri trade chatter before the 3rd period but didn’t tell his players, wanted them to focus on game.
I think
I think that Cammalleri is going West for sure. They don’t want to see him too often in the Est like Jarolav Halak playing for the Blues.
we in the east can only hope huh ??
9/11/01 - Never Forget !!
Long Live #63 The Condor
Go Canes & Checkers !!!
Sounds like Calgary according to guys with Sportsnet.
by Patrick Clarke on Jan 12, 2012 9:44 PM EST up reply actions
He started with the Kings, I believe. Then Calgary.
by Patrick Clarke on Jan 12, 2012 9:46 PM EST up reply actions
hershey wins 4-3v
and TSN Bob McKnzi reports Cammelieri pulled from game sent to team hotel possible trade in the works
9/11/01 - Never Forget !!
Long Live #63 The Condor
Go Canes & Checkers !!!
I hope it's here !! wooo hoo
9/11/01 - Never Forget !!
Long Live #63 The Condor
Go Canes & Checkers !!!
nice center by samson
too bad jj didnt finish
Samson,the Juice and Spacek all tried
9/11/01 - Never Forget !!
Long Live #63 The Condor
Go Canes & Checkers !!!
Samson is really a lot better than I thought he was. I think he could be a good 3rd liner next season. I really would like to imagine a Bowman/Sutter/Samson line.
Staal & Dalpe; The New Dynamic Duo or The Canes Crusaders!
by PackPride17 on Jan 12, 2012 9:41 PM EST via mobile reply actions
Yeah seriously. Peel sucks. Walsh sucks.
by hurricane9 on Jan 12, 2012 9:45 PM EST via mobile up reply actions
they’ve missed a few obvious offsides too
by tarheelicane9 on Jan 12, 2012 9:46 PM EST up reply actions
Looks like Camerllerleei to Calgary
by hurricane9 on Jan 12, 2012 9:45 PM EST via mobile reply actions
Camelleri
he is going to Calgary..confirmed by tsn
9/11/01 - Never Forget !!
Long Live #63 The Condor
Go Canes & Checkers !!!
not known yet..watch for the details.soon ??
9/11/01 - Never Forget !!
Long Live #63 The Condor
Go Canes & Checkers !!!
Has to be multiple players to make the contract number match up.
by Patrick Clarke on Jan 12, 2012 9:51 PM EST up reply actions
Rene Bourque is part of the package, according to Bob McKenzie.
by Patrick Clarke on Jan 12, 2012 9:52 PM EST up reply actions
seeing no one was doing that in the last game with the flyers..
9/11/01 - Never Forget !!
Long Live #63 The Condor
Go Canes & Checkers !!!
he scored in the 1st period i thought!!
by tarheelicane9 on Jan 12, 2012 9:55 PM EST up reply actions
It was awarded to him then they changed it to Brett Sutter, then later changed it back to Jay.
by Jamie Kellner on Jan 12, 2012 9:57 PM EST up reply actions
He got the goal back on the scoresheet.
by Jamie Kellner on Jan 12, 2012 9:56 PM EST up reply actions
It’s a package apparently. Borque is part of it
by hurricane9 on Jan 12, 2012 9:55 PM EST via mobile up reply actions
that'swhat BobMcKinzie is saying at this time
9/11/01 - Never Forget !!
Long Live #63 The Condor
Go Canes & Checkers !!!
Gordie Howe hat trick for Harrison!!!
"If you can't beat 'em in the alley, you can't beat 'em on the ice." Conn Smythe
by Winter is Coming on Jan 12, 2012 9:55 PM EST reply actions
Sorry for harping on this, but Samson has Ben the best player on his line tonight by far.
Staal & Dalpe; The New Dynamic Duo or The Canes Crusaders!
by PackPride17 on Jan 12, 2012 9:55 PM EST via mobile reply actions
is it just me or does the lightning’s home ice always look WAY brighter than anyone else’s? like white bright
Nashville was the same way. Most of the light is on the ice. The lower level doesn’t have as much light in the seat as, say, the RBC center does. I would like to see the lighting adjusted to match it.
by Patrick Clarke on Jan 12, 2012 10:03 PM EST up reply actions
Last 2 Games
In my opinion have been the most complete team games I’ve seen the Canes play this season. Great to see the team play very competitive hockey in all phases of the game.
5th road win of the year. Yay!!!! I thought tonight we played a better overall game then on Tuesday. i thought Staal and Harrison were our two best players. Take it easy Caniacs!!
by CruelIn10tions on Jan 12, 2012 10:04 PM EST reply actions
Cammalleri
Canadiens acquire forwards Rene Bourque, Patrick Holland and a 2nd pick in 2013 for Michael Cammalleri, Karri Ramo and a 5th pick in 2012
I said it in the Flyers Game Analysis Thread earlier today that given Cammalleri’s contract and injury history, he could have been gotten for cheap. And look, he’s gotten for relatively cheap (an average player that can score a few goals, but is sort of one-dimensional; a mid-level prospect?; and a 2013 2nd). I know Canny is have a rough time, but Calgary got the better of this deal by far.
Staal & Dalpe; The New Dynamic Duo or The Canes Crusaders!
by PackPride17 on Jan 12, 2012 10:37 PM EST via mobile up reply actions
I agree...
and I hope that Gauthier is OUT at the end of the year before he makes another mistake like Bob Gainey and stuck with it for 3-5 years like… Gomez, Gionta, Cammi, Gill
maybe he would want a washed up defenseman with 3 yrs left on his contract
oh that’s right, we already traded him to Montreal
Another reason I think this trade is really a loss for Montreal is Bourque’s contract. It’s not very expensive, but he’s got 4 years left after this one. Just look at some of Montreal’s main players and their ages in the 2013-14 season.
Gomez will be 34, cap hit will be $7.3 million.
Gionta will be 35, cap hit will be $5.0 million.
Cole will be 35, cap hit will be $4.5 million (1 year remaining).
Bourque will be 32, cap hit will be $3.3 million (2 years remaining).
Plekanec will be 31, cap hit will be $5.0 million (2 years remaining).
Markov will be 35, cap hit will be $5.7 million.
Kaberle will be 35, cap hit will be $4.2 million.
That’s a lot of money tied up in players that have injury history or are maybe starting on the downside of their careers.
Staal & Dalpe; The New Dynamic Duo or The Canes Crusaders!
by PackPride17 on Jan 13, 2012 10:36 AM EST up reply actions
he keeps calling players "Mr. [last name]" in TV interviews, weird...
"I need to make sure I don't get too frustrated and stay focused on my game...The points and the offense, you have to believe, are going to come." - Eric Staal, 11/6/2011
by Capt. Stinky on Jan 13, 2012 10:40 AM EST up reply actions
Excellent Game
I really like how Muller is working the forward lines. Ruutu is on fire. Staal with Tlusty and Ruutu worked superbly. I hope Muller will keep the kids up and will stick with the idea that if you play well, you get more time on ice. It will be interesting to see what happens when Skinner returns.
Canes are moving up
I still think it is a little late this year – give us 3 more months of Muller time for this team to gel, pick out which RFAs we want to keep, trade the UFAs for picks in this deep draft, but …
Canes are now #2 in offense in the Southeast (1 behind Caps) and have scored more per game than Wash and are virtually even with Winnipeg
Canes are now 2 points behind #12 Montreal (Habs hab 2 games in hand) and 1 point behind the Bolts (they have 3 in hand)
Canes are 5-4-1 in their last 10 – first time that has been above 500
We have played 2/4 against the Bruins (3/4 after this weekend – please don’t let that be Skinners’ first game) and 3/4 against Philly, so schedule should improve (will have to see if OTF has a super schedule update)
Eric Staal seems to be back now that Marc is – 13 points in his last 7
So there are signs of life.
With all the scouts in the stands
I’m bracing for sad news in the next few days. Goodbye, Timmay, Ruutu, Allen, Spacek, and maybe even McBain, Tlusty and Jokinen. Convenient that Rosie is hiding in the press box this particular time of year…hmmm….out of sight out of mind?
"I need to make sure I don't get too frustrated and stay focused on my game...The points and the offense, you have to believe, are going to come." - Eric Staal, 11/6/2011
Trades
I had some interesting Twitter conversation with one of the guys who does hockey rumors (not Eklund). The word on the street is that Jim Rutherford had some inquiries about Allen but has stated he wants to keep Allen. Last night showed why Ruutu is in such high demand; but also why Jim Rutherford realistically needs to find an exception to his rule of no mid-season negotiations for extensions. Ruutu was outstanding last night.
I am convinced Gleason and Spacek will be traded, although both may choose to re-sign next season with Carolina. I think Allen will stay and be re-signed. LaRose should be traded if the decision is a hockey decision and not a public relations decision. LaRose’s value now is at its peak. Ponikarovsky is likely to be traded, I believe. When Ponikarovsky plays his game each shift throughout a game, he works well with the Hurricanes; but he struggles to maintain that high end compete level. I don’t see McBain and Tlusty bringing enough return for Jim Rutherford to trade him. Jokinen ought not to be traded; but I think there is some chance Jim Rutherford may get an offer for Jokinen that he cannot refuse. I hope teams overlook Jokinen because he is the steady influence the young forwards need.
The way the team is playing now, it tends to confirm what Rutherford has said since early into the season. The Hurricanes as constituted at that time were two to three players away from being a very good team. In my view by bringing up Samson and Sutter the Hurricanes have added size, speed, and relentlessness. Skinner’s return brings more upper end skill. Bowman being brought back to Carolina will add both speed, size, physicality and scoring ability. Dalpe brings size, speed, and offensive firepower. Although Boychuk is not the darling of Canes Country and apparently also not the darling of the Hurricanes organization, he is on a scoring tear at Charlotte. He needs some extended time in the top six to show whether he is NHL caliber.
Defensively, Faulk’s emergence and Harrison’s continued improvement, including last night’s Gordie Howe hat trick, has made Gleason more expendable. People continue to focus to heavily on McBain’s defensive errors. Recall that Harrison had a number of defensive errors two years ago or so. In short, defensemen will make mistakes. McBain has all the tools to be a significant contributor for the Hurricanes.
I agree with you that JR needs to negotiate NOW with Ruutu. If he can be resigned at a good rate (IMO, below his $4.5 million), then go ahead and get that done. If he wants more or wants to test the free agent market, then the Canes should get what they can for him. If he test the market, he will probably be offered more elsewhere; but there is still a chance he could resign with Carolina, even if he is traded. But JR needs to talk to him now to show Ruutu he is interested in keeping him here.
I think Allen is alright, but I would not be sad to see him go. The Canes need more physical forces on the blueline, but I think Allen is just average. He had some very good games at the beginning of the year, but since then he has been just average. He is not great with the puck and commits a bad penalty (one that is caused by his lack of speed or skating ability) almost every game.
And while I am not a McBain fan, he definitely has offensive abilities. I disagree that JR couldn’t get good value for him. I think there are a few teams out there that would take McBain. Given Faulk, Murphy, and potentially Sangunetti are all young, right-handed shots; I believe the Canes can adequately replace McBain in the lineup. The Canes needs some more pieces, so if McBain can be traded or packaged to bring back something of real value; go ahead and do it JR. It is often said that organizations over-value their prospects & young players, I think this might be the case with McBain.
I wouldn’t mind seeing Poni go pretty soon. He’s not a bad player, but he really doesn’t seem to be anything special. I think one of our prospects could easily fill his role and all he is really doing is keeping them in Charlotte at this time.
Staal & Dalpe; The New Dynamic Duo or The Canes Crusaders!
Ruutu will most lilkely at least test the market, I think he is just as likely to re-sign if we trade him than if we didn’t (he might even enjoy a quick shot at a Cup).
The Canes have to trade him due to his raw value. He could easily be the best Rental forward available come trade deadline. Nashville had a ton of scouts at the game, I can imagine Ruutu is exactly the player they are looking for to make a serious push out of the 1st Playoff round.
Ruutu + Gleason + Boychuk
for
Patric Hornqvist + (Jonathan Blum or Roman Josi) + 2nd
Would help the Canes greatly both now and long-term.
by JussiJuice on Jan 13, 2012 9:50 AM EST via mobile up reply actions
I wouldn’t mind that trade except for the defenseman coming back our way. I would prefer to get more of a defensive guy than another offensive defenseman.
Hornqvist + Klein + 2nd would be more useful to the Canes now and next season.
Staal & Dalpe; The New Dynamic Duo or The Canes Crusaders!
by PackPride17 on Jan 13, 2012 10:49 AM EST up reply actions
Likewise on Allen. I’ve heard that he has a very large locker room presence and you have to think that you will keep one of Allen, Gleason, and Spacek. While I like Gleason more for his potential and ability (although not showing the past 2 seasons), with Faulk, Dumoulin and Murphy emerging as the young core of blueline, we need that leadership more than anything in the coming years.
You bring up something important and that is locker room presence. The only sides of these players that we see are their on-ice play, but there is another side of them in the locker room. One of our main problems I think over the past few years is lack of a significant locker room presence. When we won the Cup, we had Recchi, Brindy, Weight, Wesley, etc. Spacek and Allen are the type of veteran, vocal forwards that we need. From what I’ve heard, Gleason is not that kind of player. I personally think we need to keep one of Spacek and Allen, especially if we are going to pad our roster with young players next season. Spacek is better at this than Allen, but Allen has younger and has more a career ahead of him, so I think it could be him.
awesome point
"I need to make sure I don't get too frustrated and stay focused on my game...The points and the offense, you have to believe, are going to come." - Eric Staal, 11/6/2011
by Capt. Stinky on Jan 13, 2012 10:20 AM EST up reply actions
Good game
This game had everything the Flyer game did not: We actually scored on our chances—but the main reason we scored is we had forwards going to the net, getting into the dirty areas: Screens, traffic, pressure, close opportunities getting to rebounds. During the PP we actually had two forwards in front of the goalie at times. This continued all game.
We were also good on the puck, winning puck battles. Samson is good at this, but Ruutu was very good last night at this. Staal also was winning his battles. Sutter keeps improving this aspect of his game as well. Staying strong on the puck and winning board battles is another way of demonstrating good physical play—it isn’t always about hitting. Playing through hits, keeping posession, grinding a cycle is also all physical play that is more what we miss day in day out then just “hitting”. This kind of puck posession, winning battles is what makes us “hard to play against” more so than expecting us to beat someone up physically. Samson and Bowman are good at this type of game-love to see both of them up here the rest of the year—both Perfect for Muller’s system.
But, what really made this game stand out? For the first time in a long time, the entire team looked like they were just enjoying playing. Having fun. They were loose while they were working hard—and that made the hard work seem like fun—not work. Scoring, skating, controlling the puck is fun. I think the team enjoys playing this style. The more they are relaxed and loose while still putting forth this type of effort, the more of these types of games we’ll see. When you’re not squeezing the stick so tight, when you are not worried about your jon or getting the coach fired. When you’re not fighting slumps, When you don’t take the weight of the team or worry about letting the team down on your next shift—the more passes will connect, the more shots will go in. And we’ll have more fun and be able to do it for three period like we did last night.
Good sign. Teams that are loose and having fun—who are tough to play against become a nightmare for those bubble teams trying to make the playoffs….
yee haw.
(oh and we really used the 4th line nicely last night)
by Squeaky83 on Jan 13, 2012 10:08 AM EST reply actions 1 recs
We were also good on the puck, winning puck battles. Samson is good at this, but Ruutu was very good last night at this. Staal also was winning his battles. Sutter keeps improving this aspect of his game as well. Staying strong on the puck and winning board battles is another way of demonstrating good physical play—it isn’t always about hitting. Playing through hits, keeping posession, grinding a cycle is also all physical play that is more what we miss day in day out then just "hitting". This kind of puck posession, winning battles is what makes us "hard to play against" more so than expecting us to beat someone up physically. Samson and Bowman are good at this type of game-love to see both of them up here the rest of the year—both Perfect for Muller’s system.
I could not agree with this more.
by Jamie Kellner on Jan 13, 2012 10:18 AM EST up reply actions
Actually, I should say I completely agree with your entire post. Well said.
by Jamie Kellner on Jan 13, 2012 10:19 AM EST up reply actions
any team that plays us that non-physical is in for trouble
Tampa was not interested in any physicality in the first period, which lead to total domination by the ’Canes forecheck. Keep in mind, Tampa is a team in trouble, much like we were just a few weeks ago. They had no interest in this game until the second period, and by then we were too far gone.
Now, if we can play this fast and hard against a physical team like the Bruins, color me impressed.
"I need to make sure I don't get too frustrated and stay focused on my game...The points and the offense, you have to believe, are going to come." - Eric Staal, 11/6/2011
by Capt. Stinky on Jan 13, 2012 10:19 AM EST up reply actions
I also agree with your comments.
One of the great things I noticed last night was a larger dose of hockey courage than I’ve seen in a while. As the team entered the offensive zone, they didn’t dump the puck at the first sign of trouble. Instead, they tried to move around and through the defense. ‘Three guys, one me with puck, no problem!’
I think you may be right that having fun is the cause of this. They weren’t so worried about making a mistake that they went with the easy choices. Of course, being up by a couple of goals always helps.
"If you can't beat 'em in the alley, you can't beat 'em on the ice." Conn Smythe
by Winter is Coming on Jan 13, 2012 10:31 AM EST up reply actions
Felt like I was in the Twilight Zone. I actually thought I saw this Canes team dominate and cycle the puck in the TB zone for long stretches at a time.
Staal was the best player on the ice last night team in my opinion. Those 3 assists were well earned. Oh, and what a laser by Brent for the 5th goal – sweet!
"I'm not going to waste my time with Tuukka Rask" - Cam Ward
Hope for the Future
Last night’s game give me hope for the future of the Hurricanes. It will still be a slow process; and unless Jim Rutherford totally dismantles the team, there are key pieces in place. I like how Muller and the coaches have the forwards playing in particular. I am waiting for the dust to settle after the inevitable trades occur. I continue to wonder why the Hurricanes would even attempt to trade Boychuk before they give him a chance under Muller. I don’t see much value being attributed to Boychuk if he is not showcased.
Well, they did talk last night about Muller getting advice from Charlotte on who should be given a chance with the big club. Maybe Daniels isn’t impressed with Boychuk’s overall game or it Boychuk’s size could be a factor. The Canes do have a number of smaller players like LaRose, Dwyer, and even Skinner; maybe that is factoring into the organizations decision for not bring Boychuk up?
Staal & Dalpe; The New Dynamic Duo or The Canes Crusaders!
by PackPride17 on Jan 13, 2012 10:55 AM EST up reply actions
Size isn’t all about height. Skinner is not tall but he is strong and thick. While football analogies are dangerous, look at Richardson for Alabama. Not tall but he is one of the strongest players on the team. Skinner has worked hard to gain strength so while not tall, I don’t consider him “small”.
On the other hand I love Brandon Sutter’s game but how much more effective would he be if he added 15 pounds of upper body muscle. Brandon is still a stick and while he is good and getting better…… in my opinion he could become an elite 2nd line center in the mode of Jordan Staal if he got stronger.
You are right, size is not all about height. But because Boychuk is considered a top 6 player, if he was paired with Skinner (who is strong, but does take a lot of abuse) then that line would have some difficulty. You can only have so many smaller players on a team, on a particular line, before it becomes a disadvantage in a physical league.
Regarding Sutter; I think he has not reached his ceiling, but I do not believe he will become an elite 2nd line center. I think he could play a 2nd line center, but I really believe he is a “tweener”, between a 2nd line center & 3rd line center. Time will tell, but I just don’t think he quite has the offensive abilities to be a 2nd line center.
Staal & Dalpe; The New Dynamic Duo or The Canes Crusaders!
by PackPride17 on Jan 13, 2012 12:25 PM EST up reply actions
Football Analogies
I admit I love football analogies. Hockey purists seem to be their noses out of joint with analogies that cross over for sports. The NHL is increasingly going with short, wide, fast running backs because they are almost impossible to tackle and are hard to see. The worst poundings I ever took in football was hitting the 5’9, 220 lb fullbacks after they got their speed. Accordingly, it is more to do with strength than height.
It doesn’t strike me as great asset management to trade Boychuk at least before giving him solid chances under Muller. I don’t have any issue with the way Muller is relying on Daniels to send the players in Charlotte who have earned the right to get called up via their play. I am all for merit-based time on the ice. I would, however, think even if the Hurricanes organization had already decided to trade Boychuk, they would want to showcase him first.
Samson Again Was Excellent
Samson played another strong game. He played for Carolina with the same relentlessness in getting to pucks and winning battles for the puck that he has shown for Albany and Charlotte. He got a number of shots to the net; and is hard to separate from the puck. Uptempo hockey suits him quite well.
The best thoughts I had last night while watching the game...
How much more awesome we would have been if Skinner had been playing. I think we would have won like 8-2. :D
Ready for the Canes to win the Cup again! :)
What I want will probably not happen.
Tlusty/Staal/Dalpe
Skinner/Jokinen/Ruutu
Bowman/Sutter/Samson
Dwyer/Brent/Stewart
Line Combinations When Skinner Returns
I like your lines. Here is a bit of my reasoning for liking the lines. Skinner/Jokinen/Ruutu has been a great line and I think needs to be kept intact. Bowman/Sutter/Samson is a fine third line. Dwyer/Brent/Stewart is a very fast, balanced fourth line. Tlusty/Staal/Dalpe is a fast, skilled first line that is hard to contain when all three are skating hard. Things are going to get very, very interesting once Rask, Hofmann, Boychuk (if not traded), Nash, and the 2012 first round pick start making their case for a roster spot.
Bowman injured
He left last night game vs Hersey in the 3rd and didn’t return ,and no word of as to what the injury was ,or when/if he’ll return. That bad news Bowman get’s sent down ,and then get’s hurt…Go figure
likely:
Staal – Tlusty – [Ruutu trade return]
Jokinen – Skinner – Poni
Sutter – Samson – Dwyer
Brent – Sutter47 – Stewart
desired:
Staal – Tlusty – Ruutu
Jokinen – Skinner – Dalpe
Sutter – Samson – Bowman
Brent – Sutter47 – Stewart
"I need to make sure I don't get too frustrated and stay focused on my game...The points and the offense, you have to believe, are going to come." - Eric Staal, 11/6/2011
by Capt. Stinky on Jan 13, 2012 11:30 AM EST up reply actions
Our Forward Prospects/Our Future
While many of our prospects have been actually given a “real” chance this season under Muller, the sample size has been relatively small. But what I’ve seen gives me a lot of hope if the organization can make the moves necessary to open roster spots for these guys.
Samson has only played in 2 games, but he really shown something. He has good wheels, battles along the boards great, has created a few chances, and seems to be pretty defensively responsible.
Bowman really played well while up here, probably the best of all the prospects in my opinion. I don’t think he is a top 6 guy, but could fill in on occasion. He’s got good speed, nice size, and seemed to figure out how to collect some points.
Dalpe has really nice speed and it was fun watching him at Staal work together. He still seems a little inconsistent, but I think he’ll be a top 6 forward for this team. He also has to work a little more on his defensive positioning.
Brett Sutter has played a good game, can grind, and will do whatever you ask him to. He’s not going to be a point producer, but I think he can be a good 4th liner and PKer. I really think he would be 13th forward, if I were designing this team how I thought it should be.
Tlusty I guess is not really a prospect anymore, but he’s still a younger guy. He has had a solid year with flashes of really good play, but he is somewhat inconsistent. I would like to keep him around if possible, but it depends on who could be acquired with him.
When I look at these young players, I really do believe they can help the Canes. I think Dalpe could be a top 6 player next season, but he will have to have linemates that are currently better than him. He needs to be the 3rd option on a line, not a #2 option at this point. I think Bowman & Samson would look real good flanking Brandon Sutter on the 3rd line. I think both play a good defensive game (at least what I’ve seen so far) and they can also provide some offensive pressure & points. I like Tlusty, but I would put him on the 4th line with Brent & Dwyer. That would make the 4th line one that should play just under 10 minutes a night and can contribute on the PK. Also, if injuries happen, which they will; Tlusty could be moved up to fill most any spot. And I would use Brett Sutter as the 13th forward, getting the occasional game or filling in on the 4th when an injury happens.
Now all of this would mean that players like Poni, LaRose, Stewart, and Nodl would need to be moved; but I don’t think that is a deal-breaker.
I would really like to see:
(a true top-line player) / Staal / Dalpe
Skinner / (?) / Ruutu?
Bowman / Sutter / Samson
Tlusty / Brent / Dwyer
Brett Sutter – 13th forward
Staal & Dalpe; The New Dynamic Duo or The Canes Crusaders!
I really think that Jussi will have to be traded as part of a package to get a “real” 1st line talent.
Staal & Dalpe; The New Dynamic Duo or The Canes Crusaders!
by PackPride17 on Jan 13, 2012 12:13 PM EST up reply actions
Each have 1 year left on their deals after this season, both are below $1 million cap hit.
Staal & Dalpe; The New Dynamic Duo or The Canes Crusaders!
by PackPride17 on Jan 13, 2012 12:13 PM EST up reply actions
Draft Position
There is still a lot of the season to go, but after last night the Canes moved from the 3rd overall pick to the 5th overall pick. And we are 1 win away from being at the 7th overall pick. Just saying that getting an instant impact player in the draft might not be as easily as once thought.
Staal & Dalpe; The New Dynamic Duo or The Canes Crusaders!
Meh. As I’ve said before, I would prefer to have a proven 1st line winger than a possible 1st line winger.
Yeah, not as worried about draft positioning as some are – even if we do really good from here on out, we’re still going to be looking at a top 8 or so draft pick. I’d rather get that winning mindset and feeling back in the lockerroom.
"I'm not going to waste my time with Tuukka Rask" - Cam Ward
Things could still change and we end up with the 1st overall pick, but as history tells us; this team generally plays better in the 2nd half of the season. So finding that 1st liner for next season in the draft may be a little difficult. The majority of players drafted around the 7th spot still need some time in Juniors or the AHL to develop. So in other words, we still need to go get a 1st line player via trade or free agent.
Staal & Dalpe; The New Dynamic Duo or The Canes Crusaders!
Trades
A couple of weeks ago there was a lot of “noise” around the league about teams working on trades with the Canes. Philly was reported willing to part with one of their highly touted young forwards for solid D help. Gleason was often mentioned. Similarly there was talk that several teams were looking to add that special player for a deep playoff run were interested in Ruutu.
The “noise” now seems to be moving on to other teams. I had dinner in NY last night with a Canadian contact who in the past has provided a heads up on imminent deals. His take is that JR may be overplaying his hand on some of his players and asking too much. He is not necessarily suggesting that is a bad thing since no team is running away at the top end and there are going to be some hotly contested battles for home ice seedings as well as for the final playoff spots. There will be some intense games and we can only expect to see a continuation of what has been a year of a lot of key players going on IR with injuries. It may well be that JR will be in the catbird seat near the deadline with teams overpaying for our assets out of desperate need.
But the risk is that you miss the boat. For example if Philly gives up one of their rostered young guns now for a proven defenseman they are not going to be in that position again later if another D goes down and all they can give is prospects. And Philly is unique….. they have a surplus of NHL ready and proven young players. Other teams don’t have that luxury and cannot afford to give up a roster player.
My understanding is that Philly made an offer on a straight up one for one deal with the Canes and offered a choice of one of two forwards currently on the team. But the Canes wanted a high draft pick in addition and Philly is moving on. Time will tell if that was a smart move.
As for Ruutu…. rumour has it that the Canes want a package similar to what they were asking for Whitney. That didn’t fly then and deals were easier to make that year. My worry is that Ruutu will want in the $4mil + range and a longer term deal similar to what Cole got from Montreal. Will we pay that? And JR’s policy of not negotiating mid season is just plain stubborn. Detroit does it. Chicago does it. Rangers do it. Philly, etc. Seems to work out fine for them. Wouldn’t it be better to know now whether Ruu will be part of our future or not. That way you have a clear picture on whether to trade and salvage some value or know that he will walk and you get nothing.
Of course all of this may be just speculation and JR pulls off some brilliant moves.
I tend to think you are right and JR is too tight fisted: Both in contracts and players he tries to sign, and in negotiating with other teams. A philly deal of the mgnitude you mentioned should have been taken. Gleason isn’t as good as he may think, and we have some serious needs. Going for gold may well leave us falling and finishing last….
I don’t blame him for asking for a lot. These are two core players and fan favorites that he is trading away. He isn’t going to give them away for some mid-level prospect. But you do bring up a point about the opportunity going away. I think Gleason will either go to Philly or nowhere at all. I can’t think of many teams who need someone like Gleason at the expense of a top level player. But I have also been hearing that Boston are looking for some more defense. Ruutu, on the other hand, I think we could hold onto him until the deadline and get a team to overpay for him.
One of the most fascinating aspects of the hockey world is the notion of trading among GMs. JR is in a position of weakness because other GM’s know he will need to unload so he can restock in a different direction. The other side of that is he does have pieces needed by others so he does currently have some strength on his side. But that also has to be considered in the context that these pieces can be filled by needed teams elsewhere.
I suspect he knows how much teams are going to pay for his pieces already so he is in his second round of talking. He hopes waiting will increase the value in a trade as oppose to reducing what he can get. His past actions have clearly shown he likes early trades away from the deadline rather than close to the deadline. I would not be surprised if we see the first veteran traded soon. But man, second-guessing when to pull the trigger and when to wait has got to be an art and not a science. Just like teams have a book on a goalie tendencies, I am sure JR has a book on GM tendencies. Hope it is accurate.
When able to attack, we must seem unable; when using our forces, we must seem inactive; when we are near, we must make the enemy believe we are far away; when far away, we must make him believe we are near.
Sun Tzu circa 4th Century BC
by hurricanefever on Jan 13, 2012 1:18 PM EST up reply actions
And the others probably have a book on him. In all honesty I don’t know what that is. In my dealings with him, Jim is never at a loss for opinions nor is he shy to voice them. And he sure knows the value of a buck. One thing that I perceive is that he does solicit and value input from others in the organization. It will be interesting how this all unfolds. In the end we may all second guess him or end up marvelling at his negotiating prowess.
Funny……since he has been around a very long time that has to be a very big coffee table book!
When able to attack, we must seem unable; when using our forces, we must seem inactive; when we are near, we must make the enemy believe we are far away; when far away, we must make him believe we are near.
Sun Tzu circa 4th Century BC
by hurricanefever on Jan 13, 2012 1:57 PM EST up reply actions
Philadelphia Forwards
Are you thinking Simmonds and Voracek were offered for Gleason? If so, to me that is a no-brainer. I am obviously 100% in agreement about the need for Jim Rutherford to end his reluctance to engage in mid-season contract extension negotiations. I’d be fine with Ruutu being offered by the Hurricanes what Cole took in Montreal, other than the no trade provisions. I think Ruutu is well worth that contract given his age.
Maybe Simmonds OR Voracek, I don’t think there is any way Philly was thinking of shipping them both to us for Gleason. I could be wrong though, if they were – that would be a horrible move by Philly if they really are serious about doing something this year.
"I'm not going to waste my time with Tuukka Rask" - Cam Ward
I meant both were offered, as in take your pick, but only one of the two. I did not word that post artfully at all. Sorry.
Ha, it’s all good! I’ll agree with ya though – Gleason for Simmonds and Voracek straight up – where do I sign!
"I'm not going to waste my time with Tuukka Rask" - Cam Ward
I would like Voracek ,but i doubt Philly would deal him for a UFA ,but he is a RFA ,and Philly’s cap numbers may allow another team to match ,or better there offer.Simmonds imo is a good 3rd line player ,but i’m not sure JR would give up Gleason for a position he could fill by a player in Charlotte?..Maybe
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