In his own words.
This is an awesome article. I have nothing to add.
24 November 2015
19 November 2015
Perspectives: Milan Lucic
Here's a guy - I love the way he plays hockey.
Milan Lucic gets personal.
My view of this guy:
Hard working, tough as nails, huge.
The type that does that play in that moment that sparks a team to victory or crushes the opponents' hope of victory.
The toughness and moment-awareness of guys like Rod Brind'Amour and Mark Messier - in that vein, of course, not as proven nor as great, but an important ingredient on any winning team.
There is a picture of Milan with Vlade Divac that when I first saw it I thought, 'wow, Lucic looks the same now as he did when he was a kid.' He isn't a kid in that picture. Vlade is a big friggin' man, cause Lucic is a monster. Crazy.
The Kings are going to be tough come playoff time and this Milan Lucic guy is going to be a big part of why.
Milan Lucic gets personal.
My view of this guy:
Hard working, tough as nails, huge.
The type that does that play in that moment that sparks a team to victory or crushes the opponents' hope of victory.
The toughness and moment-awareness of guys like Rod Brind'Amour and Mark Messier - in that vein, of course, not as proven nor as great, but an important ingredient on any winning team.
There is a picture of Milan with Vlade Divac that when I first saw it I thought, 'wow, Lucic looks the same now as he did when he was a kid.' He isn't a kid in that picture. Vlade is a big friggin' man, cause Lucic is a monster. Crazy.
The Kings are going to be tough come playoff time and this Milan Lucic guy is going to be a big part of why.
Seven Days: Dallas (Central 1st)
Coach Lindy Ruff is living up to the "Legend" status I thought of him in Buffalo, where he put together some really good teams despite no ability to keep players because of money/mgmt issues. Tyler Seguin and Jamie Benn are still just great. Who is this defenseman? John Klingberg!? Where did he come from?
Record:
19gms 15 - 4 - 0, 15 ROW (projected: 18 - 4 - 0)
Injuries:
No major injuries.
Next Seven (Nov. 19th - 25th):
Thursday at Washington
Saturday Buffalo visits
Tuesday Ottawa visits
Washington will be a good test and the other two will be flukes if they lose.
6pts
Last Seven (Nov. 12th - 18th):
Win 6 - 3 Winnipeg
Win 3 - 2 (OT) Minnesota
Win 3 - 1 Buffalo
This seven days went as it should, if Dallas is all they need to be. Solid three wins.
Record:
19gms 15 - 4 - 0, 15 ROW (projected: 18 - 4 - 0)
Injuries:
No major injuries.
Next Seven (Nov. 19th - 25th):
Thursday at Washington
Saturday Buffalo visits
Tuesday Ottawa visits
Washington will be a good test and the other two will be flukes if they lose.
6pts
Last Seven (Nov. 12th - 18th):
Win 6 - 3 Winnipeg
Win 3 - 2 (OT) Minnesota
Win 3 - 1 Buffalo
This seven days went as it should, if Dallas is all they need to be. Solid three wins.
Seven Days: Nashville (Central 2nd)
The Predators are a good team. Lately, they have started to be even better. The defense is so solid and that is where they start. If the offense gets goals and a lead, this squad is one of the better teams in the league, easily.
Record:
17gms 11 - 3 - 2, 9 ROW (projected: 13 - 4 - 3)
Injuries:
No major injuries.
Next Seven (Nov. 19th - 25th):
Friday at Columbus
Saturday at Minnesota
Monday at New York Rangers
Wednesday at Buffalo
Four games in six nights - that's some work there. None of these are easy and if they take Buffalo lightly they may not get any wins here. They should get a couple though, if they want to me more than just a hot good team.
5pts
Last Seven (Nov. 12th - 18th):
Loss 2 - 1 (SO) Toronto
Win 7 - 0 Winnipeg
Win 3 -2 Anaheim
Not a bad seven - actually, a very good one. Nashville seems to be in a winning groove.
Record:
17gms 11 - 3 - 2, 9 ROW (projected: 13 - 4 - 3)
Injuries:
No major injuries.
Next Seven (Nov. 19th - 25th):
Friday at Columbus
Saturday at Minnesota
Monday at New York Rangers
Wednesday at Buffalo
Four games in six nights - that's some work there. None of these are easy and if they take Buffalo lightly they may not get any wins here. They should get a couple though, if they want to me more than just a hot good team.
5pts
Last Seven (Nov. 12th - 18th):
Loss 2 - 1 (SO) Toronto
Win 7 - 0 Winnipeg
Win 3 -2 Anaheim
Not a bad seven - actually, a very good one. Nashville seems to be in a winning groove.
Seven Days: St. Louis (Central 3rd)
St. Louis is a tough one to call. Coach Ken Hitchcock teams will play well. The personnel here are pretty good to very good, forwards and defense. The goalies are adequate. It's hard to know how good this team is though because of injuries. That said, the standings aren't a lie - the Blues are good.
Record:
19gms 12 - 6 - 1, 12 ROW (projected: 13 - 6 - 3)
Injuries:
This team is injury riddled!
Next Seven (Nov. 19th - 25th):
Thursday Buffalo visits
Saturday Detroit visits
Monday at Buffalo
Depends who is in the lineup. The Blues are solid. They could get victories in all three of these.
4pts
Last Seven (Nov. 12th - 18th):
Loss 3 - 6 at New York Rangers
Loss 2 - 4 Chicago
Win 3 - 2 Winnipeg
Loss 1 - 3 at Columbus
The injuries may be catching up to them. They really needed a win in Columbus.
Record:
19gms 12 - 6 - 1, 12 ROW (projected: 13 - 6 - 3)
Injuries:
This team is injury riddled!
Next Seven (Nov. 19th - 25th):
Thursday Buffalo visits
Saturday Detroit visits
Monday at Buffalo
Depends who is in the lineup. The Blues are solid. They could get victories in all three of these.
4pts
Last Seven (Nov. 12th - 18th):
Loss 3 - 6 at New York Rangers
Loss 2 - 4 Chicago
Win 3 - 2 Winnipeg
Loss 1 - 3 at Columbus
The injuries may be catching up to them. They really needed a win in Columbus.
Seven Days: Minnesota (Central 4th)
The Wild have not gotten better. They are still a tough team and in a seven game series could COULD beat anyone, but the top-tier teams will probably win in six. That is where they have been (even before goalie Devan Dubnyk arrived, by the way).
Record:
17gms 10 - 4 - 3, 10 ROW (projected: 12- 5 - 3)
Injuries:
Captain Zach Parise left wing - returning from injury soon.
Next Seven (Nov. 19th - 25th):
Thursday at Boston
Saturday Nashville visits
Wednesday Vancouver visits
They need to beat Boston and Vancouver. Three wins, or even a loss in OT/SO to Nashville and this seven days is a win.
4pts
Last Seven (Nov. 12th - 18th):
Win 3 - 2 (OT) at Carolina
Loss 2 - 3 (OT) at Dallas
Loss 3 - 4 at Pittsburgh
Splitting these three isn't terrible, especially without Zach Parise in the lineup.
Record:
17gms 10 - 4 - 3, 10 ROW (projected: 12- 5 - 3)
Injuries:
Captain Zach Parise left wing - returning from injury soon.
Next Seven (Nov. 19th - 25th):
Thursday at Boston
Saturday Nashville visits
Wednesday Vancouver visits
They need to beat Boston and Vancouver. Three wins, or even a loss in OT/SO to Nashville and this seven days is a win.
4pts
Last Seven (Nov. 12th - 18th):
Win 3 - 2 (OT) at Carolina
Loss 2 - 3 (OT) at Dallas
Loss 3 - 4 at Pittsburgh
Splitting these three isn't terrible, especially without Zach Parise in the lineup.
Seven Days: Chicago (Central 5th)
All-world Defenseman Duncan Keith is back. While he was gone: 5 - 4 - 1 without him is not bad. Three wins in a row since his return (6 - 3 - 1 overall and the team started slow)
Record:
19gms 11 - 7 - 1, 11 ROW (projected: 14 - 7 - 1)
Injuries:
Teuvo Teravainen left wing - Upper body injury: day-to-day
Next Seven (Nov. 19th - 25th):
Friday at Calgary
Saturday at Vancouver
Wednesday at San Jose
Should be a sweep here. San Jose and Calgary can both sneak wins in, but don't be fooled - Chicago is better. Let's see if the win streak goes to six.
6pts
Last Seven (Nov. 12th - 18th):
Loss 2 - 3 New Jersey
Win 4 - 2 at St. Louis
Win 4- 1 Calgary
Win 4 - 3 (OT) at Edmonton
Chicago is still pretty darn good. Duncan Keith is back and I think his absence will help this team on into the playoffs as he got rest and some of the other younger players got ice time.
Record:
19gms 11 - 7 - 1, 11 ROW (projected: 14 - 7 - 1)
Injuries:
Teuvo Teravainen left wing - Upper body injury: day-to-day
Next Seven (Nov. 19th - 25th):
Friday at Calgary
Saturday at Vancouver
Wednesday at San Jose
Should be a sweep here. San Jose and Calgary can both sneak wins in, but don't be fooled - Chicago is better. Let's see if the win streak goes to six.
6pts
Last Seven (Nov. 12th - 18th):
Loss 2 - 3 New Jersey
Win 4 - 2 at St. Louis
Win 4- 1 Calgary
Win 4 - 3 (OT) at Edmonton
Chicago is still pretty darn good. Duncan Keith is back and I think his absence will help this team on into the playoffs as he got rest and some of the other younger players got ice time.
Seven Days: Winnipeg (Central 6th)
Winnipeg has some really good depth. They have some special players. Dustin Byfuglien can be as big on the ice as he is at Starbucks. But they aren't so special.
Record:
20gms 9 - 9 - 2, 9 ROW (projected: 10 - 10 - 3)
Injuries:
No major injuries.
Next Seven (Nov. 19th - 25th):
Saturday at Arizona
Monday at Colorado
Wednesday Washington visits
They can right wrongs this week with win against Arizona and Colorado. Maybe the momentum will move through to the Caps game. Optimism is only that.
3pts
Last Seven (Nov. 12th - 18th):
Loss 3 - 6 at Dallas
Loss 0 - 7 at Nashville
Loss 2 - 3 at St. Louis
Win 1 - 4 Vancouver
Really, this is about where Winnipeg is. Coach Paul Maurice ices the most average of teams - they can get hot and they can also go cold. I don't think he is a good adjustment coach - he is a straight system coach.
Record:
20gms 9 - 9 - 2, 9 ROW (projected: 10 - 10 - 3)
Injuries:
No major injuries.
Next Seven (Nov. 19th - 25th):
Saturday at Arizona
Monday at Colorado
Wednesday Washington visits
They can right wrongs this week with win against Arizona and Colorado. Maybe the momentum will move through to the Caps game. Optimism is only that.
3pts
Last Seven (Nov. 12th - 18th):
Loss 3 - 6 at Dallas
Loss 0 - 7 at Nashville
Loss 2 - 3 at St. Louis
Win 1 - 4 Vancouver
Really, this is about where Winnipeg is. Coach Paul Maurice ices the most average of teams - they can get hot and they can also go cold. I don't think he is a good adjustment coach - he is a straight system coach.
Seven Days: Colorado (Central 7th)
I haven't watched enough to know - but Colorado may be turning things around. The next seven will tell more.
Record:
18gms 7 - 10 - 1, 7 ROW (projected: 8 - 11 - 3)
Injuries:
Semyon Varlamov, goalie, - groin injury: day-to-day
John Mitchell, center - injured oblique: day-to-day
Next Seven (Nov. 19th - 25th):
Thursday at Pittsburgh
Saturday at Washington
Monday at Winnipeg
Wednesday Ottawa visits
A good four to prove they are playing better. Three wins and I will be impressed.
4pts
Last Seven (Nov. 12th - 18th):
Win 3 - 2 at Boston
Win 6 - 1 at Montreal
Loss 1 - 5 at Toronto
Colorado has been playing better and winning as a result. That Montreal game was a showcase of talent on this team - they can finish. However, if they play every game like that, they will be in trouble because they were basically perfect on their chances - not gonna happen moost nights.
Record:
18gms 7 - 10 - 1, 7 ROW (projected: 8 - 11 - 3)
Injuries:
Semyon Varlamov, goalie, - groin injury: day-to-day
John Mitchell, center - injured oblique: day-to-day
Next Seven (Nov. 19th - 25th):
Thursday at Pittsburgh
Saturday at Washington
Monday at Winnipeg
Wednesday Ottawa visits
A good four to prove they are playing better. Three wins and I will be impressed.
4pts
Last Seven (Nov. 12th - 18th):
Win 3 - 2 at Boston
Win 6 - 1 at Montreal
Loss 1 - 5 at Toronto
Colorado has been playing better and winning as a result. That Montreal game was a showcase of talent on this team - they can finish. However, if they play every game like that, they will be in trouble because they were basically perfect on their chances - not gonna happen moost nights.
Games Tonight: November 19th
A lot of close tossup like games to call here. The Rangers, maybe I should give them better odds - but it is the Lightning and they play the Rangers well, going back to last season. Both teams are different, or at least, playing differently. But styles of play and matchups might be the same as last season and that gives an edge to Tampa Bay.
San Jose, Minnesota, Columbus, and Florida need wins to show they are part of the upper-tier teams.
Pittsburgh should be favored more - a good win here and they can get the media off their backs.
The Stars/Caps game is the one to watch.
Minnesota at Boston
Minnesota 6/4
San Jose at Philadelphia
San Jose 6/4
Colorado at Pittsburgh
Pittsburgh 6/4
Dallas at Washington
Tossup 5/5
Arizona at Montreal
Montreal 6/4
Columbus at Ottawa
Columbus 6/4
New York Rangers at Tampa Bay
New York Rangers 6/4
Anaheim at Florida
Florida 6/4
Buffalo at St. Louis
St. Louis 7/3
San Jose, Minnesota, Columbus, and Florida need wins to show they are part of the upper-tier teams.
Pittsburgh should be favored more - a good win here and they can get the media off their backs.
The Stars/Caps game is the one to watch.
Minnesota at Boston
Minnesota 6/4
San Jose at Philadelphia
San Jose 6/4
Colorado at Pittsburgh
Pittsburgh 6/4
Dallas at Washington
Tossup 5/5
Arizona at Montreal
Montreal 6/4
Columbus at Ottawa
Columbus 6/4
New York Rangers at Tampa Bay
New York Rangers 6/4
Anaheim at Florida
Florida 6/4
Buffalo at St. Louis
St. Louis 7/3
Predictability score: 6.00
Reviews: November 18th
Alex Ovechkin couldn't get one again. He is still only tied for the most goals by a Russian player in a career. Sergei Federov is the other guy.
Vancouver 1 Winnipeg 4 NOPE
This game is always a tossup - I guessed wrong.
Vancouver 6/4
Washington 2 Detroit 1 (OT) YEP
Just an example of how much they fed A.O. last time these two played. He had 6 shots last night. That is a lot for a game. The previous meeting - 15 shots. WOW. Not this time and Washington wins (barely). Pavel Datsyuk looks to be back in form.
Washington 7/3
Chicago 4 Edmonton 3 (OT) YEP
Edmonton is up-and-coming. I love the way they battled back in this one. If they can mature as a team to play both ends of the ice. They can be the next Chicago Blackhawks. Key ingredient missing? Duncan Keith.
Chicago 9/1
Vancouver 1 Winnipeg 4 NOPE
This game is always a tossup - I guessed wrong.
Vancouver 6/4
Washington 2 Detroit 1 (OT) YEP
Just an example of how much they fed A.O. last time these two played. He had 6 shots last night. That is a lot for a game. The previous meeting - 15 shots. WOW. Not this time and Washington wins (barely). Pavel Datsyuk looks to be back in form.
Washington 7/3
Chicago 4 Edmonton 3 (OT) YEP
Edmonton is up-and-coming. I love the way they battled back in this one. If they can mature as a team to play both ends of the ice. They can be the next Chicago Blackhawks. Key ingredient missing? Duncan Keith.
Chicago 9/1
2 - 1 - 0 for the night
score: 6.67
score: 6.67
Definitely over-confident on this night - the two wins were tight overtime ones.
Seven Days: New York Rangers (Metropolitan 1st)
Wow. This team has come out playing playoff hockey from the start. They are resilient on both ends of the ice and can create opportunities via work in the offensive zone or with breakouts from theirs. That is a very solid formula for victory. I just hope the gelling doesn't fade - the season is LONG.
Record:
18gms 14 - 2 - 2, 13 ROW (projected: 16 - 2 - 3)
Injuries:
No major injuries.
Next Seven (Nov. 18th - 22nd):
Thursday at Tampa Bay
Saturday at Florida
Monday Nashville visits
Barring something crazy, this next seven days looks to be good for the Rangers.
5pts
Last Seven (Nov. 11th - 17th):
Win 3 - 4 St. Louis
Win 1 - 6 (SO) Toronto
Win 4 - 3 Ottawa
I don't like hype, but looking at how Toronto is doing against teams of late, this is a really good seven days.
Record:
18gms 14 - 2 - 2, 13 ROW (projected: 16 - 2 - 3)
Injuries:
No major injuries.
Next Seven (Nov. 18th - 22nd):
Thursday at Tampa Bay
Saturday at Florida
Monday Nashville visits
Barring something crazy, this next seven days looks to be good for the Rangers.
5pts
Last Seven (Nov. 11th - 17th):
Win 3 - 4 St. Louis
Win 1 - 6 (SO) Toronto
Win 4 - 3 Ottawa
I don't like hype, but looking at how Toronto is doing against teams of late, this is a really good seven days.
Seven Days: Washington (Metropolitan 2nd)
Alex Ovechkin might be trying too hard and thinking too much. No goals since being on the verge of holding the NHL's Russian record for goals. This Caps team controls their own end better than they have since Ovechkin's been there. That is great if he is scoring.
Record:
16gms 11 - 4 - 1, 10 ROW (projected: 14 - 5 - 1)
Injuries:
Brooks Orpik is uncertain with a lower body injury.
Next Seven (Nov. 18th - 22nd):
Wednesday at Detroit
Thursday Dallas
Saturday Colorado
Monday Edmonton
A solid week for the Capital team - come away with four wins here and show where your focus is - the Cup. Must win two, regardless.
6pts
Last Seven (Nov. 11th - 17th):
Win 5 - 2 at Philadelphia
Loss 2 - 3 Calgary
Calgary is trying to make a move, I get it, but that has to be a win for a team gunning for success in the playoffs.
Record:
16gms 11 - 4 - 1, 10 ROW (projected: 14 - 5 - 1)
Injuries:
Brooks Orpik is uncertain with a lower body injury.
Next Seven (Nov. 18th - 22nd):
Wednesday at Detroit
Thursday Dallas
Saturday Colorado
Monday Edmonton
A solid week for the Capital team - come away with four wins here and show where your focus is - the Cup. Must win two, regardless.
6pts
Last Seven (Nov. 11th - 17th):
Win 5 - 2 at Philadelphia
Loss 2 - 3 Calgary
Calgary is trying to make a move, I get it, but that has to be a win for a team gunning for success in the playoffs.
Seven Days: New York Islanders (Metropolitan 3rd)
The Isles are a good team. They are opportunistic on the offensive end. If their defensive end tightens up and can stay with speedy teams, Tavares and company will produce. They have a tough next seven despite only two games.
Record:
19gms 10 - 6 - 3, 10 ROW (projected: 11 - 7 - 3)
Injuries:
Mikhail Grabovski was injured last night. He is a good player and brings good skill to any line.
Next Seven (Nov. 18th - 22nd):
Friday Montreal visits
Sunday at Montreal
This is big for both teams. Montreal seems to match-up well with this team.
2pts
Last Seven (Nov. 11th - 17th):
Loss 1 - 2 at Los Angeles
Win 4 - 1 at Anaheim
Win 5 -2 Arizona
The Islanders seem to have distinct issues and strengths that cause matchup problems one way or the other. They matched up very well against Anaheim and Arizona. This week went exactly as it should.
Record:
19gms 10 - 6 - 3, 10 ROW (projected: 11 - 7 - 3)
Injuries:
Mikhail Grabovski was injured last night. He is a good player and brings good skill to any line.
Next Seven (Nov. 18th - 22nd):
Friday Montreal visits
Sunday at Montreal
This is big for both teams. Montreal seems to match-up well with this team.
2pts
Last Seven (Nov. 11th - 17th):
Loss 1 - 2 at Los Angeles
Win 4 - 1 at Anaheim
Win 5 -2 Arizona
The Islanders seem to have distinct issues and strengths that cause matchup problems one way or the other. They matched up very well against Anaheim and Arizona. This week went exactly as it should.
Seven Days: Pittsburgh (Metropolitan 4th)
The Pens still haven't gotten scoring from Sidney Crosby. If you gave that option at the beginning of the season and weren't laughed at, you'd certainly be left thinking the team was not winning much. Not the case. They won 4 - 3 last night without him getting one. He is still an impact even when not scoring, of course.
Record:
18gms 11 - 7 - 0, 10 ROW (projected: 12 - 8 - 0)
Injuries:
Olli Maata may have a serious injury after last night's game.
Nick Bonino might be out with an illness.
Next Seven (Nov. 18th - 22nd):
Thursday Colorado visits
Saturday San Jose visits
A week ago and I would have said these are easy wins. Now, I'm not sure. Regardless, the Pens need at least 3pts.
2pts
Last Seven (Nov. 11th - 17th):
Win 4 - 3 (SO) Montreal
Loss 1 - 2 Columbus
Loss 0 - 4 at New Jersey
Win 4 - 3 Minnesota
The 4 - 0 loss to New Jersey might have been the needed wake-up for those top players. Malkin at least responded and the win over the Wild saved a potentially bad seven. Overall, they need to be better than this.
Record:
18gms 11 - 7 - 0, 10 ROW (projected: 12 - 8 - 0)
Injuries:
Olli Maata may have a serious injury after last night's game.
Nick Bonino might be out with an illness.
Next Seven (Nov. 18th - 22nd):
Thursday Colorado visits
Saturday San Jose visits
A week ago and I would have said these are easy wins. Now, I'm not sure. Regardless, the Pens need at least 3pts.
2pts
Last Seven (Nov. 11th - 17th):
Win 4 - 3 (SO) Montreal
Loss 1 - 2 Columbus
Loss 0 - 4 at New Jersey
Win 4 - 3 Minnesota
The 4 - 0 loss to New Jersey might have been the needed wake-up for those top players. Malkin at least responded and the win over the Wild saved a potentially bad seven. Overall, they need to be better than this.
Seven Days: New Jersey (Metropolitan 5th)
New Jersey's "rebuilding" year is turning into a playoff year. The new management, lead by Ray Shero, and Coach John Hynes may have re-invigorated a depleted group.
Record:
18gms 10 - 7 - 1, 8 ROW (projected: 12 - 7 - 1)
Injuries:
No major injuries currently.
Next Seven (Nov. 18th - 22nd):
Friday at Edmonton
Sunday at Vancouver
Easy seven days will be a good seven days if they win both - which they should.
4pts
Last Seven (Nov. 11th - 17th):
Win 3 - 2 at Chicago
Win 4 - 0 Pittsburgh
Loss 2 - 3 at Calgary
Two wins against Chicago and Pittsburgh makes the Calgary loss hurt more. Still, this team continues to play good choking hockey.
Record:
18gms 10 - 7 - 1, 8 ROW (projected: 12 - 7 - 1)
Injuries:
No major injuries currently.
Next Seven (Nov. 18th - 22nd):
Friday at Edmonton
Sunday at Vancouver
Easy seven days will be a good seven days if they win both - which they should.
4pts
Last Seven (Nov. 11th - 17th):
Win 3 - 2 at Chicago
Win 4 - 0 Pittsburgh
Loss 2 - 3 at Calgary
Two wins against Chicago and Pittsburgh makes the Calgary loss hurt more. Still, this team continues to play good choking hockey.
18 November 2015
Seven Days: Philadelphia (Metropolitan 6th)
The Flyers don't have depth in their forwards - or at least they are playing like it. The defense/system is spotty. On the flip-side, when all the players play their roles correctly, the team seems to be shutdown. I say, screw the offense and bottle it up, win 1 - 0 a lot.
Record:
18gms 6 - 8 - 4, 5 ROW (projected: 7 - 9 - 5)
Injuries:
Mark Streit is on IR - he plays a lot of minutes and could be missed a lot.
Michael Neuvirth wasn't on the bench last night -- not sure of the issue. Steve Mason played well though.
Next Seven (Nov. 18th - 22nd):
Thursday San Jose visits
Saturday at Ottawa
Monday Carolina visits
One team is hot and two need wins - Philly has to get 4pts this week. The Ottawa game is pivotal.
3pts
Last Seven (Nov. 11th - 17th):
Loss 2 - 5 Washington
Win 3 - 2 (OT) at Carolina
Loss 2 - 3 (SO) Los Angeles
This week went as expected - getting two points against the Canes was necessary.
Offense:
Claude Giroux fits nicely on any first line. Jakob Voracek is starting to get offensive. Maybe these two can start them on a streak.
Defense:
Michael del Zotto has the minutes. An ex-Ranger, he's not bad, but to be getting first d-man time, I don't think so.
Goalies:
Steve Mason has been ok in these games. His team hasn't supported him much. Michael Neuvirth has been out but will be in the lineup soon.
Record:
18gms 6 - 8 - 4, 5 ROW (projected: 7 - 9 - 5)
Injuries:
Mark Streit is on IR - he plays a lot of minutes and could be missed a lot.
Michael Neuvirth wasn't on the bench last night -- not sure of the issue. Steve Mason played well though.
Next Seven (Nov. 18th - 22nd):
Thursday San Jose visits
Saturday at Ottawa
Monday Carolina visits
One team is hot and two need wins - Philly has to get 4pts this week. The Ottawa game is pivotal.
3pts
Last Seven (Nov. 11th - 17th):
Loss 2 - 5 Washington
Win 3 - 2 (OT) at Carolina
Loss 2 - 3 (SO) Los Angeles
This week went as expected - getting two points against the Canes was necessary.
Offense:
Claude Giroux fits nicely on any first line. Jakob Voracek is starting to get offensive. Maybe these two can start them on a streak.
Defense:
Michael del Zotto has the minutes. An ex-Ranger, he's not bad, but to be getting first d-man time, I don't think so.
Goalies:
Steve Mason has been ok in these games. His team hasn't supported him much. Michael Neuvirth has been out but will be in the lineup soon.
Seven Days: Carolina (Metropolitan 7th)
Carolina has to convert. They get shots and often control flow with good speed and good transitions from defense to offense. They lack depth and this can lead to easy goals against. If they don't surprise me and start scoring, they will be holding the bottom spot in the Metro division after these seven.
Record:
18gms 6 - 10 - 2, 6 ROW (projected: 7 - 12 - 2)
Injuries:
Ryan Murphy concussion Day-to-Day, week to week. Plays decent minutes but this could be a time for an unproven guy to show himself.
Next Seven (Nov. 18th - 22nd):
Friday Toronto visits
Sunday Los Angeles visits
Monday at Philadelphia
Carolina has to beat Philly here - the other two teams are playing very well, if they squeeze a point out of those, a win against Philly makes the week not too bad.
2pts
Last Seven (Nov. 11th - 17th):
Loss 2 - 3 (OT) Minnesota
Loss 2 - 3 (OT) Philadelphia
Loss 1 - 4 Anaheim
More games with more shots than their opponent and less goals. The Canes work hard and come away empty too much. It's like a football team that is good between the 20 yard lines. Less shooting and more passing?
Offense:
This team lacks depth. Depth is key. They can still churn and work, but shots don't win games.
Eric Staal has been putting it out there - I wonder if he will get traded this year. Jeff Skinner adds shots - I thought he was a better finisher than he has been this season.
Defense:
Justin Faulk works hard every night - getting points in all the losses. If he plays with a guy like Jack Johnson (adequate big top line defenseman), the line would be one of the best in the league.
Goalies:
Cam Ward or Eddie Lack aren't getting a lot of help to win games. Cam Ward has been mostly solid although the numbers don't say so. Lack, in moments very solid, in others he looks exposed.
Record:
18gms 6 - 10 - 2, 6 ROW (projected: 7 - 12 - 2)
Injuries:
Ryan Murphy concussion Day-to-Day, week to week. Plays decent minutes but this could be a time for an unproven guy to show himself.
Next Seven (Nov. 18th - 22nd):
Friday Toronto visits
Sunday Los Angeles visits
Monday at Philadelphia
Carolina has to beat Philly here - the other two teams are playing very well, if they squeeze a point out of those, a win against Philly makes the week not too bad.
2pts
Last Seven (Nov. 11th - 17th):
Loss 2 - 3 (OT) Minnesota
Loss 2 - 3 (OT) Philadelphia
Loss 1 - 4 Anaheim
More games with more shots than their opponent and less goals. The Canes work hard and come away empty too much. It's like a football team that is good between the 20 yard lines. Less shooting and more passing?
Offense:
This team lacks depth. Depth is key. They can still churn and work, but shots don't win games.
Eric Staal has been putting it out there - I wonder if he will get traded this year. Jeff Skinner adds shots - I thought he was a better finisher than he has been this season.
Defense:
Justin Faulk works hard every night - getting points in all the losses. If he plays with a guy like Jack Johnson (adequate big top line defenseman), the line would be one of the best in the league.
Goalies:
Cam Ward or Eddie Lack aren't getting a lot of help to win games. Cam Ward has been mostly solid although the numbers don't say so. Lack, in moments very solid, in others he looks exposed.
Seven Days: Columbus (Metropolitan 8th)
Columbus is on the move, seven wins in the past 11 games against some hot hands. John Tortorella has them believing in something or at least playing like it.
Record:
19gms 7 - 12 - 0, 7 ROW (projected: 8 - 12 - 2)
Injuries:
Brandon Dubinky (an ex-Ranger) something went wrong with a cut on his elbow - IR for weeks
He's a hearty forward that plays big and often shows up in big moments.
Next Seven (Nov. 18th - 24th):
Thursday at Ottawa
Friday Nashville
Sunday San Jose
Considering last week's successes real, this week should not be as difficult. Johnny Torts will be all smiles if that happens. Look for a loss to Ottawa or San Jose, so Nashville makes or breaks this seven days.
4pts
Last Seven (Nov. 11th - 17th):
Win 2 - 1 at Pittsburgh
Win 5 - 2 Arizona
Win 3 - 1 St. Louis
Solid performances against good to better competition - Columbus has moved up. 6pts did not look possible seven days ago.
Offense:
This team has depth up front. When playing fast and on the puck with three lines, as they have recently, Columbus gives a lot of match up problems for most teams.
Defense:
Now that they are playing, they are good. Not a big believer in them. Jack Johnson is playing better - well, he got two points in the last three games anyway.
Goalies:
Record:
19gms 7 - 12 - 0, 7 ROW (projected: 8 - 12 - 2)
Injuries:
Brandon Dubinky (an ex-Ranger) something went wrong with a cut on his elbow - IR for weeks
He's a hearty forward that plays big and often shows up in big moments.
Next Seven (Nov. 18th - 24th):
Thursday at Ottawa
Friday Nashville
Sunday San Jose
Considering last week's successes real, this week should not be as difficult. Johnny Torts will be all smiles if that happens. Look for a loss to Ottawa or San Jose, so Nashville makes or breaks this seven days.
4pts
Last Seven (Nov. 11th - 17th):
Win 2 - 1 at Pittsburgh
Win 5 - 2 Arizona
Win 3 - 1 St. Louis
Solid performances against good to better competition - Columbus has moved up. 6pts did not look possible seven days ago.
Offense:
This team has depth up front. When playing fast and on the puck with three lines, as they have recently, Columbus gives a lot of match up problems for most teams.
Defense:
Now that they are playing, they are good. Not a big believer in them. Jack Johnson is playing better - well, he got two points in the last three games anyway.
Goalies:
Games Tonight: November 18th
Finally some time to do my thing - fail at predicting the future. The game to watch tonight is in Detroit - can Alex Ovechkin get a goal in front of Sergei Federov's faithful fans?
(Federov and Ovie are tied in career goal scoring - the most of any Russian player - so Ovie breaks the record with a goal and Fedorov played his best years in Detroit)
Vancouver at Winnipeg
Really I should say 'Tossup' but i'm just leaning a little toward the Canucks.
Vancouver 6/4
Washington at Detroit
Washington fed A.O. too much last game. They should come out less worried about him getting a goal tonight.
Washington 7/3
Chicago at Edmonton
Edmonton needs a win but I think Patrick Kane and Duncan Keith will be too much.
Chicago 9/1
(Federov and Ovie are tied in career goal scoring - the most of any Russian player - so Ovie breaks the record with a goal and Fedorov played his best years in Detroit)
Vancouver at Winnipeg
Really I should say 'Tossup' but i'm just leaning a little toward the Canucks.
Vancouver 6/4
Washington at Detroit
Washington fed A.O. too much last game. They should come out less worried about him getting a goal tonight.
Washington 7/3
Chicago at Edmonton
Edmonton needs a win but I think Patrick Kane and Duncan Keith will be too much.
Chicago 9/1
Predictability score: 7.33
this high score is probably an indication of over-confidence on my part
Reviews: November 17th
If I had guessed at winners on this night...I would have sucked as much as ever.
San Jose 5 Boston 4
Dallas 3 Buffalo 1
Los Angeles 3 Philadelphia 2 (SO)
St. Louis 1 Columbus 3
Minnesota 3 Pittsburgh 4
Colorado 1 Toronto 5
Anaheim 2 Nashville 3
New Jersey 2 Calgary 3
Columbus, Calgary, and Toronto are definitely changing the perceptions. Of the three, Columbus is most legit (now they will lose 4 in a row).
San Jose is gaining respect.
Nashville, Pittsburgh and Dallas are playing very good right now.
St. Louis, after putting some good games together, have now dropped 3 out of the last 4.
San Jose 5 Boston 4
Dallas 3 Buffalo 1
Los Angeles 3 Philadelphia 2 (SO)
St. Louis 1 Columbus 3
Minnesota 3 Pittsburgh 4
Colorado 1 Toronto 5
Anaheim 2 Nashville 3
New Jersey 2 Calgary 3
Columbus, Calgary, and Toronto are definitely changing the perceptions. Of the three, Columbus is most legit (now they will lose 4 in a row).
San Jose is gaining respect.
Nashville, Pittsburgh and Dallas are playing very good right now.
St. Louis, after putting some good games together, have now dropped 3 out of the last 4.
Seven Days: Montreal (Atlantic - 1st)
Montreal doesn't just look beatable these days, they are. Just average since that hot, hot start. Many will point to goaltending, but Carey Price was in net for the first two losses. It's more likely scoring depth. And when you push for offense too much, you give up higher quality chances - like in that game against Colorado?
Offense:
Captain Max Pacioretty hasn't been a let down really. He Tomas Plekanec try to carry this offense. But it's when the other lines control play and actually finish chances that this team becomes almost unbeatable.
Defense:
Ultimately, if PK Subban and Andrei Markov struggle, this team struggles. Fortunately, these two are mostly not struggling. Against the Avs everyone struggled.
Goalies:
With Carey Price out, Mike Condon has played respectably. Dustin Tokarski has come in some but not in the form he had during that playoff run a few seasons ago.
Next Seven:
Thursday Arizona visits
Friday at New York Islanders
Sunday New York Islanders visit
The Islanders games will be interesting, especially if Arizona gets the upset.
5pts
Last Seven:
Loss 3 - 4 (SO) at Pittsburgh
Loss 1 - 6 Colorado
Win 4 - 3 (OT) Vancouver
That Colorado game was a debacle - the Avs were near perfect on their high chance opportunities. The comeback win against Vancouver might help them get their groove back.
Injuries:
Alexei Emelin is nursing something - day-to-day
Offense:
Captain Max Pacioretty hasn't been a let down really. He Tomas Plekanec try to carry this offense. But it's when the other lines control play and actually finish chances that this team becomes almost unbeatable.
Defense:
Ultimately, if PK Subban and Andrei Markov struggle, this team struggles. Fortunately, these two are mostly not struggling. Against the Avs everyone struggled.
Goalies:
With Carey Price out, Mike Condon has played respectably. Dustin Tokarski has come in some but not in the form he had during that playoff run a few seasons ago.
Next Seven:
Thursday Arizona visits
Friday at New York Islanders
Sunday New York Islanders visit
The Islanders games will be interesting, especially if Arizona gets the upset.
5pts
Last Seven:
Loss 3 - 4 (SO) at Pittsburgh
Loss 1 - 6 Colorado
Win 4 - 3 (OT) Vancouver
That Colorado game was a debacle - the Avs were near perfect on their high chance opportunities. The comeback win against Vancouver might help them get their groove back.
Injuries:
Alexei Emelin is nursing something - day-to-day
seven days Nov. 10th - 16th
Seven Days: Detroit (Atlantic - 3rd)
Detroit has a lot of firepower even still, despite being a team on the downslope after around 20 years on or near the top. They aren't as good as they were, but don't count them out. A great showing against Washington that showed just how dangerous the forwards are - they don't need much space to get good shots on a goalie.
Offense:
It seemed like Justin Abdelkader was going to have a break out year, he's been cold of late until this week. Now it's Henrik Zetterberg turn to chill. Tomas Tatar, Dylan Larkin, and Gustav Nyquist have been producing. If Pavel Datsyuk returns to form soon, this top six has a lot of firepower.
Defense:
Mike Green does what Mike Green does - create offense at the expense of defense. Danny DeKeyser had a solid seven days.
Goalies:
Jimmy Howard and Petr Mrazek have had moments with no help but have still mostly played simple, good goaltending.
Next Seven:
Wednesday Washington visits
Friday Los Angeles visits
Saturday at St. Louis
Well, here's are three games that can set Detroit in the upper tier teams. Any win here is good. Pavel Datsyuk being back could make an impact this next seven.
1pt
Last Seven:
Win 1 - 0 (OT) Washington
Loss 2 - 3 San Jose
Loss 1 - 3 at Boston
Win 4 - 3 (OT) at Ottawa
Beating a good Washington team should have broken this week open. Oh well, still 4pts isn't terrible, unless you are expecting to make the playoffs.
Injuries:
No major injuries. Some players may return this week.
Offense:
It seemed like Justin Abdelkader was going to have a break out year, he's been cold of late until this week. Now it's Henrik Zetterberg turn to chill. Tomas Tatar, Dylan Larkin, and Gustav Nyquist have been producing. If Pavel Datsyuk returns to form soon, this top six has a lot of firepower.
Defense:
Mike Green does what Mike Green does - create offense at the expense of defense. Danny DeKeyser had a solid seven days.
Goalies:
Jimmy Howard and Petr Mrazek have had moments with no help but have still mostly played simple, good goaltending.
Next Seven:
Wednesday Washington visits
Friday Los Angeles visits
Saturday at St. Louis
Well, here's are three games that can set Detroit in the upper tier teams. Any win here is good. Pavel Datsyuk being back could make an impact this next seven.
1pt
Last Seven:
Win 1 - 0 (OT) Washington
Loss 2 - 3 San Jose
Loss 1 - 3 at Boston
Win 4 - 3 (OT) at Ottawa
Beating a good Washington team should have broken this week open. Oh well, still 4pts isn't terrible, unless you are expecting to make the playoffs.
Injuries:
No major injuries. Some players may return this week.
seven days Nov. 10th - 16th
17 November 2015
Seven Days: Ottawa (Atlantic - 2nd)
Ottawa, in my view, hasn't found their new style of play under head coach Dave Cameron. Still a swift skating team, the transition game is keyed by Erik Karlsson. They've looked good at times and bad at others, like this last seven days.
Offense:
Erik Karlsson is Ottawa's best player for offense, too. (read below to understand) Bobby Ryan and Mike Hoffman have had the hot hands. Ryan is a good player and may be maturing into the talent he naturally has.
Defense:
Goalies:
Craig Anderson's .911 save percentage is a surprise but the Ottawa style can leave him hanging. Andrew Hammond will get a chance once he gets healthy.
Next Seven:
Thursday Columbus visits
Saturday Philadelphia visits
Columbus is playing well, but Ottawa needs to get the wins here. Philly is unpredictable.
3pts
Last Seven:
Loss 5 - 7 at Nashville
Win 3 - 2 Vancouver
Loss 1 - 2 (SO) New York Rangers
Loss 3 - 4 (OT) at Detroit
Letting in 7 to Nashville, ouch. Getting points in the other three games kept things from feeling disastrous. It was a good game against New York - good skating both ways.
Injuries:
Some dings on Kyle Turris, Jared Cowan, and Andrew Hammond. All are not bad off. Turris is needed.
Offense:
Erik Karlsson is Ottawa's best player for offense, too. (read below to understand) Bobby Ryan and Mike Hoffman have had the hot hands. Ryan is a good player and may be maturing into the talent he naturally has.
Defense:
Erik Karlsson is Ottawa's best player on defense every week. He covers so much ice and so well.
Goalies:
Craig Anderson's .911 save percentage is a surprise but the Ottawa style can leave him hanging. Andrew Hammond will get a chance once he gets healthy.
Next Seven:
Thursday Columbus visits
Saturday Philadelphia visits
Columbus is playing well, but Ottawa needs to get the wins here. Philly is unpredictable.
3pts
Last Seven:
Loss 5 - 7 at Nashville
Win 3 - 2 Vancouver
Loss 1 - 2 (SO) New York Rangers
Loss 3 - 4 (OT) at Detroit
Letting in 7 to Nashville, ouch. Getting points in the other three games kept things from feeling disastrous. It was a good game against New York - good skating both ways.
Injuries:
Some dings on Kyle Turris, Jared Cowan, and Andrew Hammond. All are not bad off. Turris is needed.
seven days Nov. 10th - 16th
Seven Days: Florida (Atlantic - 4th)
The Florida Panthers started hot and have since cooled. The last few years I have hoped they would get in the playoffs. They have a lot of the pieces and good youth. The tough three games ahead could be pivotal. (But it's only THREE games...I know I know...always time to recover. Always measuring how the teams play, I guess.)
Offense:
Vincent Trocheck keeps producing - he is a surprise to me. Jaromir Jagr continues to climb the record books, now holding tenth spot for games played - ahead of retired Niklas Lidstrom - Detroit's great defenseman.
Defense:
Goalies:
Roberto Luongo playing as solid as ever. Al Montoya might not get a start in one of these.
Next Seven:
Thursday Anaheim visits
Saturday New York Rangers visit
Monday Los Angeles visits
They really need to beat Anaheim to set this seven up properly. Lose that and getting points from the Rangers and Kings will seem monumental.
2pts
Last Seven:
Win 4 - 3 OT Calgary
Loss 2 - 3 Buffalo
Win 5 - 4 (SO) at Tampa bay
Win 1 - 0 Tampa Bay
Some really good wins in there. A good turnaround after losing 8 of the prior 10.
Injuries:
Dmitri Kulikov will miss some games. He logs a good minutes for this Panther defense.
Offense:
Vincent Trocheck keeps producing - he is a surprise to me. Jaromir Jagr continues to climb the record books, now holding tenth spot for games played - ahead of retired Niklas Lidstrom - Detroit's great defenseman.
Defense:
Aaron Ekblad might be returning to the form that made him such a stand-out last season. A very good thing, if so. They aren't bad on defense. This week someone will have to step up for Dmitri Kulikov being down.
Goalies:
Roberto Luongo playing as solid as ever. Al Montoya might not get a start in one of these.
Next Seven:
Thursday Anaheim visits
Saturday New York Rangers visit
Monday Los Angeles visits
They really need to beat Anaheim to set this seven up properly. Lose that and getting points from the Rangers and Kings will seem monumental.
2pts
Last Seven:
Win 4 - 3 OT Calgary
Loss 2 - 3 Buffalo
Win 5 - 4 (SO) at Tampa bay
Win 1 - 0 Tampa Bay
Some really good wins in there. A good turnaround after losing 8 of the prior 10.
Injuries:
Dmitri Kulikov will miss some games. He logs a good minutes for this Panther defense.
seven days Nov. 10th - 16th
Seven Days: Tampa Bay (Atlantic - 5th)
Jon Cooper has to find a way to get this team to breakout and score goals. That may be easy, but they have to also stay tight in their own zone. Some rest and time to practice this week should help, right?
Offense:
Their top players seem to be spreading out the scoring. Steven Stamkos is still getting it in the net with 9 goals through today.
Defense:
Ben Bishop is quality and has been. Andrei Vasilevskiy seems solid, as well.
Next Seven:
Thursday New York Rangers visit
Saturday Anaheim visits
Rangers are due for a loss and this being an Eastern Conference re-match game, I guess, the Lightning could steal that one. If so, this could be a good week - maybe a shot in the arm this team needs. (I hope New York Rangers keep that from happening).
1pt
Last Seven:
Loss 1 - 4 Buffalo
Win 3 - 1 Calgary
Loss 4 - 5 (OT) Florida
Loss 0 - 1 at Florida
Tampa Bay had a bad week there. Four games against three non-playoff teams, probably (although Florida will put up a fight, I'm sure). 3pts. Bad.
Injuries:
Tyler Johnson, Cedric Paquette, and Jonathan Drouin were out for Monday's game. These three are pretty important.
Offense:
Their top players seem to be spreading out the scoring. Steven Stamkos is still getting it in the net with 9 goals through today.
Defense:
The top four here are very good. And really, it seems they played well this last seven. Of course, Victor Hedman anchors this group. Anton Stralman and Jason Garrison have gotten points.
Goalies:Ben Bishop is quality and has been. Andrei Vasilevskiy seems solid, as well.
Next Seven:
Thursday New York Rangers visit
Saturday Anaheim visits
Rangers are due for a loss and this being an Eastern Conference re-match game, I guess, the Lightning could steal that one. If so, this could be a good week - maybe a shot in the arm this team needs. (I hope New York Rangers keep that from happening).
1pt
Last Seven:
Loss 1 - 4 Buffalo
Win 3 - 1 Calgary
Loss 4 - 5 (OT) Florida
Loss 0 - 1 at Florida
Tampa Bay had a bad week there. Four games against three non-playoff teams, probably (although Florida will put up a fight, I'm sure). 3pts. Bad.
Injuries:
Tyler Johnson, Cedric Paquette, and Jonathan Drouin were out for Monday's game. These three are pretty important.
seven days Nov. 10th - 16th
Seven Days: Boston (Atlantic - 6th)
The Bruins. I know how they play and I know they aren't deep. They will need everyone clicking and finishing in this upcoming seven days. I think, though, it will be tough.
Offense:
Patrice Bergeron and David Krejci are still keeping this team competitive. These are true hockey warriors.
Defense:
Goalies:
Can't complain about the play of either of these goalies. Tuukka Rask and Jonas Gustavsson have been solid.
Next Seven:
Tonight San Jose visits
Thursday Minnesota visits
Saturday Toronto visits
Monday at Toronto
Two weeks ago this looked like a different week, maybe 6pts with the two wins against Toronto. Not now, the Leafs are playing confident. I can't see this heart-full Bruins group not getting at least one win - but it could be a very bad seven days.
1pt
Last Seven:
Loss 2 - 3 OT Colorado
Win 3 - 1 Detroit
Not a bad week considering it was almost perfect. I don't think I watch either of these games. Colorado is playing better than their early form, so not a bad point. Detroit needs to be a point for teams expecting the playoffs.
Injuries:
Colin Miller is day-to-day. He plays but not sure of the impact.
Offense:
Patrice Bergeron and David Krejci are still keeping this team competitive. These are true hockey warriors.
Defense:
Zdeno Chara, old though he is, still puts it out there nightly. His +8 is significant on this team.
Goalies:
Can't complain about the play of either of these goalies. Tuukka Rask and Jonas Gustavsson have been solid.
Next Seven:
Tonight San Jose visits
Thursday Minnesota visits
Saturday Toronto visits
Monday at Toronto
Two weeks ago this looked like a different week, maybe 6pts with the two wins against Toronto. Not now, the Leafs are playing confident. I can't see this heart-full Bruins group not getting at least one win - but it could be a very bad seven days.
1pt
Last Seven:
Loss 2 - 3 OT Colorado
Win 3 - 1 Detroit
Not a bad week considering it was almost perfect. I don't think I watch either of these games. Colorado is playing better than their early form, so not a bad point. Detroit needs to be a point for teams expecting the playoffs.
Injuries:
Colin Miller is day-to-day. He plays but not sure of the impact.
seven days Nov. 10th - 16th
Seven Days: Buffalo (Atlantic - 7th)
The Buffalo Sabres might be wearing shades. Coach Dan Bylsma seems to be keeping this team encouraged and playing hard.
Offense:
Jack Eichel had a good week but they haven't been falling for him lately. Sam Reinhart has had it even harder. Tyler Ennis had a hot hand in this seven and Ryan O'Reilly does work every week.
Defense:
Rasmus Ristolainen is a bright spot and getting lots of time on the ice. Could be a big part of the future here.
Goalies:
With Robin Lehner sidelined Linus Ullmark and Chad Johnson have been playing fine and sharing time. They had a solid seven and will be very tested in the next!
Next Seven:
Tuesday Dallas visits
Thursday at St. Louis
Saturday at Dallas
Monday St. Louis visits
Rough seven here! But this team needs to look at these challenges as growth for the future. Anything they can steal away is just a positive.
1pt
Last Seven:
Win 4 - 1 at Tampa Bay
Win 3 - 2 at Florida
Loss 3 - 4 (OT) San Jose
Not a bad game in there. Sure, the Sabres have a lot to work on, but they have come a long way from last season. This set with 5pts is a good building block for them.
Injuries:
Zemgus Girgensons did not play Tuesday night. He can be an impact forward, though, this season he hasn't been.
Offense:
Jack Eichel had a good week but they haven't been falling for him lately. Sam Reinhart has had it even harder. Tyler Ennis had a hot hand in this seven and Ryan O'Reilly does work every week.
Defense:
Rasmus Ristolainen is a bright spot and getting lots of time on the ice. Could be a big part of the future here.
Goalies:
With Robin Lehner sidelined Linus Ullmark and Chad Johnson have been playing fine and sharing time. They had a solid seven and will be very tested in the next!
Next Seven:
Tuesday Dallas visits
Thursday at St. Louis
Saturday at Dallas
Monday St. Louis visits
Rough seven here! But this team needs to look at these challenges as growth for the future. Anything they can steal away is just a positive.
1pt
Last Seven:
Win 4 - 1 at Tampa Bay
Win 3 - 2 at Florida
Loss 3 - 4 (OT) San Jose
Not a bad game in there. Sure, the Sabres have a lot to work on, but they have come a long way from last season. This set with 5pts is a good building block for them.
Injuries:
Zemgus Girgensons did not play Tuesday night. He can be an impact forward, though, this season he hasn't been.
seven days Nov. 10th - 16th
Seven Days: Toronto (Atlantic - 8th)
Toronto Maple Leafs might be pulling into form under first year coach, Mike Babcock. They are playing a working man's hockey. Keeping busy on both ends. Right now they are getting more than they are giving up.
Offense:
P.A. Parenteau has had a good last seven days. He can finish good set ups. Nazim Kadri and James van Reimsdyk have been playing well.
Defense:
Goalies:
James Reimer has been riding the wave of late. Neither goalie is bad and I imagine before the season is out Jonathan Bernier will get another chance to get some wins. IF Toronto keeps playing well, that is.
Next Seven:
Tuesday Colorado visits
Friday at Carolina
Saturday at Boston
Monday Boston visits
Well, if the Maple Leafs have turned the corner this is a good week to stay hot.
6pts
Last Seven:
Win 3 - 2 at Dallas
Win 2 - 1 (SO) at Nashville
Win 4 - 2 Vancouver
Loss 3 - 4 at New York Rangers
Toronto won their second against a pretty hot Dallas team - a team that most have not kept out of the net. Nashville is certainly a better team. And the loss to the Rangers is not a bad one.
Injuries:
No major injuries this week.
Offense:
P.A. Parenteau has had a good last seven days. He can finish good set ups. Nazim Kadri and James van Reimsdyk have been playing well.
Defense:
Jake Gardiner had looked pretty beatable the game I watched, however, he had a couple of good games out there this week. Dion Phaneuf is leading them scoring - he plays hard on both ends.
Goalies:
James Reimer has been riding the wave of late. Neither goalie is bad and I imagine before the season is out Jonathan Bernier will get another chance to get some wins. IF Toronto keeps playing well, that is.
Next Seven:
Tuesday Colorado visits
Friday at Carolina
Saturday at Boston
Monday Boston visits
Well, if the Maple Leafs have turned the corner this is a good week to stay hot.
6pts
Last Seven:
Win 3 - 2 at Dallas
Win 2 - 1 (SO) at Nashville
Win 4 - 2 Vancouver
Loss 3 - 4 at New York Rangers
Toronto won their second against a pretty hot Dallas team - a team that most have not kept out of the net. Nashville is certainly a better team. And the loss to the Rangers is not a bad one.
Injuries:
No major injuries this week.
seven days Nov. 10th - 16th
Reviews: November 16th
24 Arizona 2 12 New York Islanders 5 NOPE
John Tavares is too much for a lot of teams. When he gets even a small moment with the puck things happen. Kyle Okposo works well with him. Arizona got two late. Most of the night they just weren't generating much.
Arizona 6/4
17 Anaheim 4 25 Carolina 1 NOPE
Noah Hanafin, the Canes' number one pick this year, got his first goal. Carolina again outshoots a team and loses. I don't think they created much though - shots don't equate to goals. Sami Vatanen's goal was just sweetness. Ryan Getzlaf got his first, but he still hasn't beaten a goalie.
Carolina 6/4
16 Vancouver 3 3 Montreal 4 (OT) YES
Lars Eller's shorthanded goal and Max Pacioretty's quick hands sparked a Montreal comeback in this one. What was a loss being blamed on goalie Mike Condon turned into an overtime win for Montreal. Vancouver had a hearty start to this one, but faded as the Habs players took control of things.
Montreal 7/3
19 Detroit 4 14 Ottawa 3 (OT) --
I didn't see any of this one - seems like it went typical to how these two teams play.
Tossup 5/5
13 Tampa Bay 0 20 Florida 1 --
I saw none of this one, also. But this is becoming the story of the early season - the Lightning can't score. Starting with Steven Stamkos's 6 shots.
Tossup 5/5
23 Winnipeg 2 9 St. Louis 3 YES
I didn't see this one. Seems that St. Louis team concept and depth elevated them past an opportunistic Jets team.
St. Louis 7/3
John Tavares is too much for a lot of teams. When he gets even a small moment with the puck things happen. Kyle Okposo works well with him. Arizona got two late. Most of the night they just weren't generating much.
Arizona 6/4
17 Anaheim 4 25 Carolina 1 NOPE
Noah Hanafin, the Canes' number one pick this year, got his first goal. Carolina again outshoots a team and loses. I don't think they created much though - shots don't equate to goals. Sami Vatanen's goal was just sweetness. Ryan Getzlaf got his first, but he still hasn't beaten a goalie.
Carolina 6/4
16 Vancouver 3 3 Montreal 4 (OT) YES
Lars Eller's shorthanded goal and Max Pacioretty's quick hands sparked a Montreal comeback in this one. What was a loss being blamed on goalie Mike Condon turned into an overtime win for Montreal. Vancouver had a hearty start to this one, but faded as the Habs players took control of things.
Montreal 7/3
19 Detroit 4 14 Ottawa 3 (OT) --
I didn't see any of this one - seems like it went typical to how these two teams play.
Tossup 5/5
13 Tampa Bay 0 20 Florida 1 --
I saw none of this one, also. But this is becoming the story of the early season - the Lightning can't score. Starting with Steven Stamkos's 6 shots.
Tossup 5/5
23 Winnipeg 2 9 St. Louis 3 YES
I didn't see this one. Seems that St. Louis team concept and depth elevated them past an opportunistic Jets team.
St. Louis 7/3
2 - 2 - 2 for the night
score: 5.33
Seven Days: Edmonton Oilers (Pacific - 7th)
Edmonton Oiler fans may want more - they have been waiting years, but they should still be pleased with the growth in this season alone. I am hopeful, I like this group.
Offense:
I love this young group. But it is time to play both ends effectively. Taylor Hall has grown into a solid top liner and leader.
Defense:
The team as a whole just isn't covering well in their zone. Maybe other teams are transition well against them, too.
Goalies:
Funny how the Oilers have been trying to find that special goalie. Cam Talbot is in a tough spot but playing decently. Anders Nilsson had a solid showing against Anaheim. Both are good goalies just not given opportunities to win.
Next Seven:
Wednesday Chicago visits
Friday New Jersey visits
Not so crazy that they enter this seven days one point behind Calgary for bottom in the Pacific Division and they play the same teams this week. Edmonton without Connor McDavid can still be tough to play against. This is no easy week even though they will be rested.
1pt
Last Seven:
Win 4 - 3 OT at Anaheim
Loss 1 - 4 at Arizona
Loss 3 - 4 at Los Angeles
After a good win against the Ducks, they had trouble with two hotter teams. Edmonton is young and missing quite the player in Connor McDavid.
Injuries:
Ryan Nugent-Hopkins might be experiencing an illness but I think he'll be ready for Wednesday's game.
Offense:
I love this young group. But it is time to play both ends effectively. Taylor Hall has grown into a solid top liner and leader.
Defense:
Darnell Nurse has been playing hard minutes. I like his game so far.
Eric Gryba had a solid week.
Oscar Klefbom is putting up points.The team as a whole just isn't covering well in their zone. Maybe other teams are transition well against them, too.
Goalies:
Funny how the Oilers have been trying to find that special goalie. Cam Talbot is in a tough spot but playing decently. Anders Nilsson had a solid showing against Anaheim. Both are good goalies just not given opportunities to win.
Next Seven:
Wednesday Chicago visits
Friday New Jersey visits
Not so crazy that they enter this seven days one point behind Calgary for bottom in the Pacific Division and they play the same teams this week. Edmonton without Connor McDavid can still be tough to play against. This is no easy week even though they will be rested.
1pt
Last Seven:
Win 4 - 3 OT at Anaheim
Loss 1 - 4 at Arizona
Loss 3 - 4 at Los Angeles
After a good win against the Ducks, they had trouble with two hotter teams. Edmonton is young and missing quite the player in Connor McDavid.
Injuries:
Ryan Nugent-Hopkins might be experiencing an illness but I think he'll be ready for Wednesday's game.
seven days Nov. 9th - 15th
Seven Days: Calgary Flames (Pacific - 6th)
Calgary Flames haven't had many solid, complete 60 minutes this season. Bob Hartley's system was able to create a lot more chances last season than it gave up. This season has been quite a disaster. Last week shows it. The Flames have two tough games to try and prove something.
Offense:
Johnny Gaudreau had a quiet week - not a good thing for Calgary. 6 goals in four games - he isn't the only one.
Defense:
Goalies:
Next Seven:
Tuesday New Jersey visits
Friday Chicago visits
Two tough games - if either takes this team too lightly, the Flames could sneak out a point or two.
0pts
Last Seven:
Loss 1 - 3 OT at Florida
Loss 1 - 3 at Tampa bay
Win 3 - 2 OT at Washington
Loss 1 - 4 at Chicago
Where's the scoring? Not a good week - but this is how Calgary has been playing
Injuries:
Jonas Hiller is still out.
Offense:
Johnny Gaudreau had a quiet week - not a good thing for Calgary. 6 goals in four games - he isn't the only one.
Defense:
No defensemen had really anything great this week. Mark Giordano and TJ Brodie are being ridden hard with lots of minutes, they can be really solid but they aren't currently. Dougie Hamilton has a lot of money in his pockets but not much else.
Goalies:
Karri Ramo hasn't really been supported. He did have a solid showing against the Caps. Joni Ortio has been equally unimportant, though. The team has to give these guys chances to win.
Next Seven:
Tuesday New Jersey visits
Friday Chicago visits
Two tough games - if either takes this team too lightly, the Flames could sneak out a point or two.
0pts
Last Seven:
Loss 1 - 3 OT at Florida
Loss 1 - 3 at Tampa bay
Win 3 - 2 OT at Washington
Loss 1 - 4 at Chicago
Where's the scoring? Not a good week - but this is how Calgary has been playing
Injuries:
Jonas Hiller is still out.
seven days Nov. 9th - 15th
Seven Days: Arizona Coyotes (Pacific - 3rd)
Arizona Coyotes are over-achieving. Can they keep it up all season? That is the question. Dave Tippett ices a very difficult team to play against. Own zone discipline and breakouts to offense are working because the teams' overall speed has been getting them through the neutral zone well.
Offense:
When Mikkel Boedker gets opportunities, you know that Arizona's transition game is working. He is fun to watch. Martin Hanzal is playing big centering Max Domi and Boedker. When they are skating fast through the neutral zone, they have finishers that are finishing.
Defense:
Oliver Ekmann-Larsson had a very good week. He is the cornerstone of this team in a lot of ways. Michael Stone has impressed me. With Nick Grossman coming back, this defense can be one of the better ones. I'm being optimistic.
Goalies:
Mike Smith has been mostly good. He gives a soft one here and there but his game against Columbus was better than the save percentage shows. Anders Lindback has stood up when called upon.
Next Seven:
Tonight at New York Islanders
Thursday at Montreal
Saturday at Winnipeg
Proving they are real doesn't stop with one good week. They have to win one against either the Isles or the Jets. Montreal is not on top right now, so sneaking points out of them would be a bonus.
3pts
Last Seven:
Win 4 - 3 OT at Anaheim
Win 3 - 2 at Los Angeles
Win 4 - 1 Edmonton
Loss 5 - 2 at Columbus
This is a very good week. After some signs that this team was coming back down to earth after their hot start, the Coyotes got it going. The Columbus loss is ok but they did get beaten. This team has to exploit their scoring chances - they play a resilient defensive system, giving nothing easy down the middle.
Injuries:
Nick Grossman should be returning.
Offense:
When Mikkel Boedker gets opportunities, you know that Arizona's transition game is working. He is fun to watch. Martin Hanzal is playing big centering Max Domi and Boedker. When they are skating fast through the neutral zone, they have finishers that are finishing.
Defense:
Oliver Ekmann-Larsson had a very good week. He is the cornerstone of this team in a lot of ways. Michael Stone has impressed me. With Nick Grossman coming back, this defense can be one of the better ones. I'm being optimistic.
Goalies:
Mike Smith has been mostly good. He gives a soft one here and there but his game against Columbus was better than the save percentage shows. Anders Lindback has stood up when called upon.
Next Seven:
Tonight at New York Islanders
Thursday at Montreal
Saturday at Winnipeg
Proving they are real doesn't stop with one good week. They have to win one against either the Isles or the Jets. Montreal is not on top right now, so sneaking points out of them would be a bonus.
3pts
Last Seven:
Win 4 - 3 OT at Anaheim
Win 3 - 2 at Los Angeles
Win 4 - 1 Edmonton
Loss 5 - 2 at Columbus
This is a very good week. After some signs that this team was coming back down to earth after their hot start, the Coyotes got it going. The Columbus loss is ok but they did get beaten. This team has to exploit their scoring chances - they play a resilient defensive system, giving nothing easy down the middle.
Injuries:
Nick Grossman should be returning.
seven days Nov. 9th - 15th
Seven Days: Los Angeles (Pacific - 1st)
It's been a bumpy road but the Kings are certainly playing top-tier hockey most of the time.
Offense:
The second line is producing - Milan Lucic, Jeff Carter and Tyler Toffoli, who has been on fire all season. Tanner Pearson is playing well on the first line. Anze Kopitar is a both ends kind of player and is doing more than numbers can say.
Defense:
Drew Doughty had a good week. He usually does. The top four here are pretty solid - if Christian Ehrhoff can put in tight minutes, the defense is top-tier.
Goalies:
Jonathan Quick is a very good goalie when his team is playing tight. He might be the toughest goalie in the league when the puck is on the ice. When he lets in 3 or more goals, you know the defense was having trouble. Jhonas Enroth, from Buffalo, is another solid backup.
Next Seven:
Tuesday at Philadelphia
Friday at Detroit
Sunday at Carolina
Another week where I expect Los Angeles to win three.
6pts
Last Seven:
Loss 3 - 2 Arizona
Win 2 - 1 New York Islanders
Win 4 - 3 Edmonton
I would have expected a perfect week. The loss to the Coyotes might be a match-up issue - they lost to them earlier in the season as well. It is probably just a fluke - they carried the play mostly.
Injuries:
No major injuries last week.
Offense:
The second line is producing - Milan Lucic, Jeff Carter and Tyler Toffoli, who has been on fire all season. Tanner Pearson is playing well on the first line. Anze Kopitar is a both ends kind of player and is doing more than numbers can say.
Defense:
Drew Doughty had a good week. He usually does. The top four here are pretty solid - if Christian Ehrhoff can put in tight minutes, the defense is top-tier.
Goalies:
Jonathan Quick is a very good goalie when his team is playing tight. He might be the toughest goalie in the league when the puck is on the ice. When he lets in 3 or more goals, you know the defense was having trouble. Jhonas Enroth, from Buffalo, is another solid backup.
Next Seven:
Tuesday at Philadelphia
Friday at Detroit
Sunday at Carolina
Another week where I expect Los Angeles to win three.
6pts
Last Seven:
Loss 3 - 2 Arizona
Win 2 - 1 New York Islanders
Win 4 - 3 Edmonton
I would have expected a perfect week. The loss to the Coyotes might be a match-up issue - they lost to them earlier in the season as well. It is probably just a fluke - they carried the play mostly.
Injuries:
No major injuries last week.
seven days Nov. 9th - 15th
Seven Days: San Jose (Pacific - 4th)
What is going to happen to the San Jose Sharks? Is Patrick Marleau getting traded? I haven't been watching a lot of their games. They had a good week - I may need to start watching them. If their defense tightens, their offense will continue to win them some games.
Offense:
This team is stacked up front. A slew of players have been scoring here for years.
Joel Ward has been playing solid for them.
Joe Pavelski is living up as Captain.
Defense:
Brent Burns has been proving over the years that he is a solid blueliner. He gets points. Paul Martin is not living up.
Goalies:
Martin Jones has been fine here. Two solid performances after being pulled against the Isles. Alex Stalock played his one game well.
Next Seven:
Tuesday at New York Islanders
Thursday at Philadelphia
Saturday at Pittsburgh
A playoff team beats Philly and one of the other games. Elevate their game and they can get all 6 of these points.
4pts
Last Seven:
Loss 2 - 4 New York Islanders
Win 3 - 2 at Detroit
Win 2 - 1 at Buffalo
Four points for the seven days, not bad. Detroit is a similar level team. Buffalo has played well of late but are young. Still two good wins.
Injuries:
No current injuries.
Offense:
This team is stacked up front. A slew of players have been scoring here for years.
Joel Ward has been playing solid for them.
Joe Pavelski is living up as Captain.
Defense:
Brent Burns has been proving over the years that he is a solid blueliner. He gets points. Paul Martin is not living up.
Goalies:
Martin Jones has been fine here. Two solid performances after being pulled against the Isles. Alex Stalock played his one game well.
Next Seven:
Tuesday at New York Islanders
Thursday at Philadelphia
Saturday at Pittsburgh
A playoff team beats Philly and one of the other games. Elevate their game and they can get all 6 of these points.
4pts
Last Seven:
Loss 2 - 4 New York Islanders
Win 3 - 2 at Detroit
Win 2 - 1 at Buffalo
Four points for the seven days, not bad. Detroit is a similar level team. Buffalo has played well of late but are young. Still two good wins.
Injuries:
No current injuries.
seven days Nov. 9th - 15th
Seven Days: Vancouver Canucks (Pacific - 2nd)
Vancouver Canucks are good but not great. I don't know this team well.
Offense:
Daniel Sedin and Henrik Sedin are still able to produce nightly. They would have to be quite stellar for this team to move up in the ranks, however.
Defense:
Goalies:
Next Seven:
Tonight at Montreal
Wednesday at Winnipeg
Saturday Chicago visits
Sunday New Jersey visits
This is a tough set for the next seven days. Winnipeg is the best matchup. The other three will be upset to lose to this Canucks team.
2pts
Last Seven:
Win 5 - 3 at Columbus
Loss 2 - 3 at Ottawa
Loss 2 - 4 at Toronto
This is how a fading good team plays at times. 3pts would have been good for the Canucks.
Injuries:
Alexandre Burrows might not play tonight for personal reasons.
Offense:
Daniel Sedin and Henrik Sedin are still able to produce nightly. They would have to be quite stellar for this team to move up in the ranks, however.
Defense:
Alexander Edler and Chris Tanev are bright spots on this team. The defense is a solid group.
Goalies:
Ryan Miller is not a problem here. Jacob Markstrom could be a decent backup.
Tonight at Montreal
Wednesday at Winnipeg
Saturday Chicago visits
Sunday New Jersey visits
This is a tough set for the next seven days. Winnipeg is the best matchup. The other three will be upset to lose to this Canucks team.
2pts
Last Seven:
Win 5 - 3 at Columbus
Loss 2 - 3 at Ottawa
Loss 2 - 4 at Toronto
This is how a fading good team plays at times. 3pts would have been good for the Canucks.
Injuries:
Alexandre Burrows might not play tonight for personal reasons.
seven days Nov. 9th - 15th
16 November 2015
Games Tonight: November 16th
24 Arizona at 12 New York Islanders
Arizona can build on things: 4-2-0 so far in November. The Isles need to right the ship of November where they are 3-4-0.
Arizona 6/4
17 Anaheim at 25 Carolina
Anaheim looks broken. The Canes' generate opportunities but don't put them in - however, this might be changing.
Carolina 6/4
16 Vancouver at 3 Montreal
Montreal has taken some beatings lately. 4-3-2 in their last nine after starting 9-0-0. Still a very good team. Vancouver is one of those middle teams.
Montreal 7/3
19 Detroit at 14 Ottawa
Ottawa pushed speed against the Rangers. This mostly back-fired against a pretty speedy team, but the did create. Detroit can counter as good as any.
Tossup 5/5
13 Tampa Bay at 20 Florida
Tampa Bay makes no goals and makes no sense. Florida has Barkov back. Let's see if that center depth will help them.
Tossup 5/5
23 Winnipeg at 9 St. Louis
Winnipeg just got shellacked by Nashville. St. Louis was handled by the Rangers.
St. Louis 7/3
Arizona can build on things: 4-2-0 so far in November. The Isles need to right the ship of November where they are 3-4-0.
Arizona 6/4
17 Anaheim at 25 Carolina
Anaheim looks broken. The Canes' generate opportunities but don't put them in - however, this might be changing.
Carolina 6/4
16 Vancouver at 3 Montreal
Montreal has taken some beatings lately. 4-3-2 in their last nine after starting 9-0-0. Still a very good team. Vancouver is one of those middle teams.
Montreal 7/3
19 Detroit at 14 Ottawa
Ottawa pushed speed against the Rangers. This mostly back-fired against a pretty speedy team, but the did create. Detroit can counter as good as any.
Tossup 5/5
13 Tampa Bay at 20 Florida
Tampa Bay makes no goals and makes no sense. Florida has Barkov back. Let's see if that center depth will help them.
Tossup 5/5
23 Winnipeg at 9 St. Louis
Winnipeg just got shellacked by Nashville. St. Louis was handled by the Rangers.
St. Louis 7/3
Seven Days: Anaheim Ducks (Pacific - 5th)
So far they are not living up to potential. But let's be honest they lost a lot in Kyle Palmieri - look at how he is doing in New Jersey. Losing Francois Beauchemin is a big deal as well. He is not easy to replace, even at his age - defensemen age well in this league.
Offense:
Corey Perry is starting to get his points. This is important for team success.
Chris Stewart has shown he is a player. This is good.
Impressed to see what Rickard Rakell has done. He is noticeable out there and putting up some offense.
Ryan Kesler, Ryan Getzlaf and Andrew Cogliano need to step up.
Mike Santorelli is a guy that can produce but maybe just another complimentary player if other players open things up for him.
Defense:
Sami Vatanen is the real deal. But if he is pushing hard for goals, he can't be defending as well. This is a team thing. He needs protection defensively in order to truly push up like he wants and is effective doing. Overall, this defense has not stood up. It is not a bad group of defensemen, but they are missing something crucial - maybe the forwards aren't buying in well.
Hampus Lindholm and Cam Fowler have looked better in the past.
Goalies:
Frederik Andersen might be getting worn out here. He has been playing well - very solid. But the last week might be indication that he is trying too hard to get wins instead of relying on just playing solid and stopping what he can. I don't remember more than one BAD goal against him this past week, but if you start seeing a lot of overplay and easy goals - blame the team.
Next Seven:
Tonight at Carolina
Tuesday at Nashville
Thursday at Florida
Saturday at Tampa Bay
They need to get wins at Carolina and Florida.
The Lightning are having scoring issues - so this is a need to win also.
Nashville is a good measuring game - if the Ducks have holes, Nashville could hang 5 goals on them.
5pts
Last Seven:
Loss 3 - 4 (OT) Arizona
Loss 3 - 4 (OT) Edmonton
Loss 1 - 4 New York Islanders
Injuries:
Rickard Rakell is playing wounded a bit. If he goes out, this could hurt team production.
Offense:
Corey Perry is starting to get his points. This is important for team success.
Chris Stewart has shown he is a player. This is good.
Impressed to see what Rickard Rakell has done. He is noticeable out there and putting up some offense.
Ryan Kesler, Ryan Getzlaf and Andrew Cogliano need to step up.
Mike Santorelli is a guy that can produce but maybe just another complimentary player if other players open things up for him.
Defense:
Sami Vatanen is the real deal. But if he is pushing hard for goals, he can't be defending as well. This is a team thing. He needs protection defensively in order to truly push up like he wants and is effective doing. Overall, this defense has not stood up. It is not a bad group of defensemen, but they are missing something crucial - maybe the forwards aren't buying in well.
Hampus Lindholm and Cam Fowler have looked better in the past.
Goalies:
Frederik Andersen might be getting worn out here. He has been playing well - very solid. But the last week might be indication that he is trying too hard to get wins instead of relying on just playing solid and stopping what he can. I don't remember more than one BAD goal against him this past week, but if you start seeing a lot of overplay and easy goals - blame the team.
Next Seven:
Tonight at Carolina
Tuesday at Nashville
Thursday at Florida
Saturday at Tampa Bay
They need to get wins at Carolina and Florida.
The Lightning are having scoring issues - so this is a need to win also.
Nashville is a good measuring game - if the Ducks have holes, Nashville could hang 5 goals on them.
5pts
Last Seven:
Loss 3 - 4 (OT) Arizona
Loss 3 - 4 (OT) Edmonton
Loss 1 - 4 New York Islanders
Injuries:
Rickard Rakell is playing wounded a bit. If he goes out, this could hurt team production.
seven days Nov. 9th - 15th
Goalies are overrated: Bad Journalists
This is the kind of junk I despise:
Go watch that game. Mike Condon played well. He gave up one goal that was questionable. His backup, a decently playoff proven one, Dustin Tokarsky came in and let in two in the third period. Two backups in the same game leave it with a 6.00 GAA for the game. Pierre blames Condon in quite a condescending, see the backup playing like a backup, way.
Where was Pierre on Carey Price, the revered All-World Vezina winning bestest goalie in the game, when he let in 5 goals against Vancouver and then 4 against Edmonton back in October. You know, right when the glorious 9 game win streak ended for Les Habitants. Did Carey Price fall back to earth that day?
It fumes me, though. It alleviates the team defense responsibility and it pulls credit away from the extremely good shot placement the Avs' players had. It is not a goalie centric game. Montreal started off hot and met a lot of teams still trying to gel. Max Pacioretty and Tomas Plekanec deposited every chance. The whole team was clicking. They are still a very good team but it is not about Mike Condon or Carey Price.
Goalies need teams to give them a chance to keep the score low. This goes contrary to the popular belief that goalies give teams a chance to win. It is the team that dictates what kind of shots the goalies see. The goalie sets no plate for the what the team lets be set up in his zone nor what goes on in the offensive zone.
And it's this silly biased journalism that leaves me saying...Goalies are overrated.
The Habs had their first week without a win, albeit playing just twice. They outshot the Avs 40-24 Saturday but got routed 6-1 as rookie goalie Michael Condon had his come-down-to-earth moment.Pierre Lebrun's analysis of the Canadiens' past week.
Go watch that game. Mike Condon played well. He gave up one goal that was questionable. His backup, a decently playoff proven one, Dustin Tokarsky came in and let in two in the third period. Two backups in the same game leave it with a 6.00 GAA for the game. Pierre blames Condon in quite a condescending, see the backup playing like a backup, way.
Where was Pierre on Carey Price, the revered All-World Vezina winning bestest goalie in the game, when he let in 5 goals against Vancouver and then 4 against Edmonton back in October. You know, right when the glorious 9 game win streak ended for Les Habitants. Did Carey Price fall back to earth that day?
It fumes me, though. It alleviates the team defense responsibility and it pulls credit away from the extremely good shot placement the Avs' players had. It is not a goalie centric game. Montreal started off hot and met a lot of teams still trying to gel. Max Pacioretty and Tomas Plekanec deposited every chance. The whole team was clicking. They are still a very good team but it is not about Mike Condon or Carey Price.
Goalies need teams to give them a chance to keep the score low. This goes contrary to the popular belief that goalies give teams a chance to win. It is the team that dictates what kind of shots the goalies see. The goalie sets no plate for the what the team lets be set up in his zone nor what goes on in the offensive zone.
And it's this silly biased journalism that leaves me saying...Goalies are overrated.
Reviews: November 15th
Two games to go through.
Toronto 3 New York Rangers 4
I wish I could have watched this game. I saw the highlights.
The Rangers have the best record in hockey. They are playing resilient hockey - that type where they press really well when down and they make it hard for the other team to push without giving up a chance for the Rangers. Hope it lasts all year.
Mats Zuccarello, I have to agree with Derek Stepan, I love the way this guy plays. He's been doing it for a few seasons now. He grinds. He works. He plays well with others. He goes to the net. He comes back on defense. However, he scored in the past, but I didn't notice how good his hands are. Hope it lasts all year as well.
Calgary 1 Chicago 4
Chicago has Duncan Keith back and they played a very solid game. Like with the Rangers they're resilient. They play so well in their end, that in order to get chances a team will give some up and Patrick Kane/Jonathan Toews type players make you pay.
Calgary played well. I think their system doesn't cover their own zone well. The offense would really have to be on point to overcome what they give up.
Patrick Kane makes it look so easy. His hands are probably as deceptive and accurate as any. So quick.
Duncan Keith makes defense look easy. Great game.
Kari Ramo, goalie for Calgary, certainly played solid enough. A goalie off his game could have given up a lot more.
Toronto 3 New York Rangers 4
I wish I could have watched this game. I saw the highlights.
The Rangers have the best record in hockey. They are playing resilient hockey - that type where they press really well when down and they make it hard for the other team to push without giving up a chance for the Rangers. Hope it lasts all year.
Mats Zuccarello, I have to agree with Derek Stepan, I love the way this guy plays. He's been doing it for a few seasons now. He grinds. He works. He plays well with others. He goes to the net. He comes back on defense. However, he scored in the past, but I didn't notice how good his hands are. Hope it lasts all year as well.
Calgary 1 Chicago 4
Chicago has Duncan Keith back and they played a very solid game. Like with the Rangers they're resilient. They play so well in their end, that in order to get chances a team will give some up and Patrick Kane/Jonathan Toews type players make you pay.
Calgary played well. I think their system doesn't cover their own zone well. The offense would really have to be on point to overcome what they give up.
Patrick Kane makes it look so easy. His hands are probably as deceptive and accurate as any. So quick.
Duncan Keith makes defense look easy. Great game.
Kari Ramo, goalie for Calgary, certainly played solid enough. A goalie off his game could have given up a lot more.
15 November 2015
The weekend that wasn't..hockey.
The weekend has not been a good one for me and hockey :)
I watched the Ranger game yesterday. They beat the Senators in a shoot-out after going the full 65 tied at 1.
The Rangers played well and created some good chances - just weren't finishing as they have been. Ottawa gave the Rangers issues with speed - generating a good number of two on ones.
Ottawa looked more like the team I was used to watching last season. Eric Karlsson keeping things tight on the back and leading the attack from their end.
Mats Zuccarello with Derick Brassard and Rick Nash kept form. They creating a lot of opportunities. I hope Nash starts finishing soon. This line will be amazing.
Other than that - I didn't watch any games with any focus. I had them on, but I was playing Fallout 4. Living in that world for most of the weekend really.
I would watch the Ranger game tonight, but its on NHL Network which I don't have. I'll probably watch Calgary at Chicago though. Chicago should win this. They've been playing great hockey all season.
This weekend was a mess though. How many teams are turning around now? Colorado took it to Montreal. And although two of the goals were somewhat soft, the rest weren't. That'd be 4 good goals. Meanwhile, Max Pacioretty and Tomas Plekanec have cooled down.
Toronto has been winning. Not against the bottom teams, Dallas and Nashville fell during the current Maple Leafs' streak.
Columbus has been winning, too. John Tortorella has them playing solid, so it seems.
Anyway, that is all I have. I will be watching the Chase race tonight.
I watched the Ranger game yesterday. They beat the Senators in a shoot-out after going the full 65 tied at 1.
The Rangers played well and created some good chances - just weren't finishing as they have been. Ottawa gave the Rangers issues with speed - generating a good number of two on ones.
Ottawa looked more like the team I was used to watching last season. Eric Karlsson keeping things tight on the back and leading the attack from their end.
Mats Zuccarello with Derick Brassard and Rick Nash kept form. They creating a lot of opportunities. I hope Nash starts finishing soon. This line will be amazing.
Other than that - I didn't watch any games with any focus. I had them on, but I was playing Fallout 4. Living in that world for most of the weekend really.
I would watch the Ranger game tonight, but its on NHL Network which I don't have. I'll probably watch Calgary at Chicago though. Chicago should win this. They've been playing great hockey all season.
This weekend was a mess though. How many teams are turning around now? Colorado took it to Montreal. And although two of the goals were somewhat soft, the rest weren't. That'd be 4 good goals. Meanwhile, Max Pacioretty and Tomas Plekanec have cooled down.
Toronto has been winning. Not against the bottom teams, Dallas and Nashville fell during the current Maple Leafs' streak.
Columbus has been winning, too. John Tortorella has them playing solid, so it seems.
Anyway, that is all I have. I will be watching the Chase race tonight.
14 November 2015
Games Tonight: November 14th
I'll update later.
2 New York Rangers at 16 Ottawa
New York Rangers 7/3
2 New York Rangers at 16 Ottawa
New York Rangers 7/3
Reviews: November 13th
Well, a totally imperfect night...Friday the 13th cursed me.
28 Columbus 2 at 10 Pittsburgh 1 NOPE
Pittsburgh 8/2
26 Calgary 3 at 4 Washington 2 (OT) NOPE
Washington 8/2
19 San Jose 3 at 18 Detroit 2 NOPE
Detroit 6/4
13 New York Islanders 4 at 15 Anaheim 1 --
tossup 5/5
28 Columbus 2 at 10 Pittsburgh 1 NOPE
Pittsburgh 8/2
26 Calgary 3 at 4 Washington 2 (OT) NOPE
Washington 8/2
19 San Jose 3 at 18 Detroit 2 NOPE
Detroit 6/4
13 New York Islanders 4 at 15 Anaheim 1 --
tossup 5/5
0 -3 -1 for the night
score: 3.25
score: 3.25
13 November 2015
Games Tonight: November Friday the 13th
Four games for the evening. Been busy working so not much to say on these.
28 Columbus at 10 Pittsburgh
Pittsburgh 8/2
26 Calgary at 4 Washington
Washington 8/2
19 San Jose at 18 Detroit
Detroit 6/4
13 New York Islanders at 15 Anaheim
tossup 5/5
28 Columbus at 10 Pittsburgh
Pittsburgh 8/2
26 Calgary at 4 Washington
Washington 8/2
19 San Jose at 18 Detroit
Detroit 6/4
13 New York Islanders at 15 Anaheim
tossup 5/5
Predictability score: 6.75
Reviews: November 12th
This is just a start. Hope I have time to watch these.
29 Colorado 3 20 Boston 2 NOPE
Boston 8/2
6 St. Louis 3 2 New York Rangers 6 --
Tossup 5/5
4 Washington 5 23 Philadelphia 3 YES
Washington 6/4
8 Minnesota 3 24 Carolina 2 (OT) YES
Minnesota 7/3
17 Vancouver 2 16 Ottawa 3 YES
Ottawa 6/4
26 Calgary at 14 Tampa Bay YES
Tampa Bay 6/4
22 Buffalo 3 21 Florida 2 YES
Buffalo 7/3
30 Toronto 2 7 Nashville 1 (SO) NOPE
Nashville 7/3
12 New Jersey 3 9 Chicago 2 NOPE
Chicago 6/4
11 Winnipeg 3 3 Dallas 6 YES
Dallas 8/2
27 Edmonton 1 25 Arizona 4 --
Tossup 5/5
13 New York Islanders 1 5 Los Angeles 2 YES
Los Angeles 6/4
29 Colorado 3 20 Boston 2 NOPE
Boston 8/2
6 St. Louis 3 2 New York Rangers 6 --
Tossup 5/5
4 Washington 5 23 Philadelphia 3 YES
Washington 6/4
8 Minnesota 3 24 Carolina 2 (OT) YES
Minnesota 7/3
17 Vancouver 2 16 Ottawa 3 YES
Ottawa 6/4
26 Calgary at 14 Tampa Bay YES
Tampa Bay 6/4
22 Buffalo 3 21 Florida 2 YES
Buffalo 7/3
30 Toronto 2 7 Nashville 1 (SO) NOPE
Nashville 7/3
12 New Jersey 3 9 Chicago 2 NOPE
Chicago 6/4
11 Winnipeg 3 3 Dallas 6 YES
Dallas 8/2
27 Edmonton 1 25 Arizona 4 --
Tossup 5/5
13 New York Islanders 1 5 Los Angeles 2 YES
Los Angeles 6/4
7 - 3 - 2 for the night
score: 5.42
score: 5.42
12 November 2015
Games Tonight: November 12th
Another twelve...it's gonna be a long night...let's get it on...let's get it on...
Good Lord!
Reviews are coming as the day moves on.
They will be short and sweet (or not).
May come back to add more later.
29 Colorado at 20 Boston
Boston should be able to win this the way they have been playing and the way Colorado has been playing. One good, one not so. Krecji has been kept quiet of late - no puck deposits in the last six games - if he finds his hands tonight, easy win. Colorado will have to outplay all four of Boston's lines, which I think they will have trouble doing.
Boston 8/2
6 St. Louis at 2 New York Rangers
Part of me feels this will be an exposing of the Rangers' tonight. The blueshirts have been giving up opportunities and luck has been smiling. Maybe they are getting to rebounds and winning the battles in their end after initial shots. St Louis has the power to reveal what is happening. St. Louis is deep and when they get healthy, they might be the deepest set of forwards in the league - though without any single GREAT player (maybe Tarasenko, but too early to know).
Funny stat: Henrik Lundqvist has allowed 2 or fewer goals in 11 of 12 starts. His backup goalie, Antti Raanta has allowed 1 or fewer in all three of his starts. Always about the goalie, even when it isn't.
Tossup 5/5
4 Washington at 23 Philadelphia
Philly is a weird team. Washington should win, even if the Flyers play their best. But Somehow the Flyers do shut down teams when they play hard and well. Washington being shutout two in a row - that would be crazy. (I still need to watch that Detroit game - Ovechkin had 15 shots with no goals.)
Washington 6/4
8 Minnesota at 24 Carolina
Carolina, woe is me, Carolina! This team creates but doesn't finish. If they do, they can win. Minnesota is not giving up easy goals. Zach Parise is still out, but the team seems to be carrying on.
Minnesota 7/3
17 Vancouver at 16 Ottawa
Ottawa will have to play better in their own zone. There offense looked pretty creative in their last, but the defense zone saw terrible coverage. Vancouver played a solid game against Columbus. Ottawa have dropped a bit since last season, I think it is systemic. They didn't give up the great chances and rebounds they have this season. We'll see if Vancouver can take advantage. Vancouver is a mediocre team that plays well together. They need better pieces.
Ottawa 6/4
26 Calgary at 14 Tampa Bay
Tampa Bay continues to slide. How can this team NOT score? It makes little sense to me, unless they just aren't working. The lines are being jumbled for the game tonight. Calgary is playing better - they are generating some offense it seems (18 goals in their last 5games). If they get three in this one, they should win. I still am holding on to the idea that this Lightning is good and just not putting it all out there. They have to turn it around at some point.
Tampa Bay 6/4
22 Buffalo at 21 Florida
Florida is not a bad team. But they aren't playing so well. Buffalo has that young energy and when Jack Eichel is that energy, the team has a chance every night. He isn't quite in that category, but he is certainly getting there. I enjoy watching him play. Add a very solid Sam Reinhart and the Sabres have a bright future.
Buffalo 7/3
30 Toronto at 7 Nashville
Nashville's offense looked pretty sharp against the Senators the other night. They were getting in front of the goalie and making nice passes. Their own zone coverage faltered a bit, though. If they get the one part right and continue with the other, Toronto doesn't have a chance. And that is a Maple Leafs team that is playing better hockey. Otherwise, Toronto can finish as well as Ottawa did and this could be a barn-burner. Toronto beating Dallas twice now is hard to understand.
Nashville 7/3
12 New Jersey at 9 Chicago
Patrick Kane. This is really a tossup in my mind but I will take Kane's side anyway.
Chicago 6/4
11 Winnipeg at 3 Dallas
With the exception of how they play against Toronto, Dallas is the best team in the league. Benn and Seguin over Wheeler and Byfuglien.
Dallas 8/2
27 Edmonton at 25 Arizona
Edmonton had a nice win vs Anaheim last night. Their forwards are very skilled finishers. I think Arizona will get chances and if they finish a good percentage of them, they win. Edmonton's defense protects the middle, I think they can win.
Tossup 5/5
13 New York Islanders at 5 Los Angeles
The Kings losing to Arizona Tuesday night and Columbus last week keeps me from believing the Kings are fully on stride right now. But they are close. The Isles have a lot to work on but they can beat anyone on a given night. They have that kind of offense.
Los Angeles 6/4
Good Lord!
Reviews are coming as the day moves on.
They will be short and sweet (or not).
May come back to add more later.
29 Colorado at 20 Boston
Boston should be able to win this the way they have been playing and the way Colorado has been playing. One good, one not so. Krecji has been kept quiet of late - no puck deposits in the last six games - if he finds his hands tonight, easy win. Colorado will have to outplay all four of Boston's lines, which I think they will have trouble doing.
Boston 8/2
6 St. Louis at 2 New York Rangers
Part of me feels this will be an exposing of the Rangers' tonight. The blueshirts have been giving up opportunities and luck has been smiling. Maybe they are getting to rebounds and winning the battles in their end after initial shots. St Louis has the power to reveal what is happening. St. Louis is deep and when they get healthy, they might be the deepest set of forwards in the league - though without any single GREAT player (maybe Tarasenko, but too early to know).
Funny stat: Henrik Lundqvist has allowed 2 or fewer goals in 11 of 12 starts. His backup goalie, Antti Raanta has allowed 1 or fewer in all three of his starts. Always about the goalie, even when it isn't.
Tossup 5/5
4 Washington at 23 Philadelphia
Philly is a weird team. Washington should win, even if the Flyers play their best. But Somehow the Flyers do shut down teams when they play hard and well. Washington being shutout two in a row - that would be crazy. (I still need to watch that Detroit game - Ovechkin had 15 shots with no goals.)
Washington 6/4
8 Minnesota at 24 Carolina
Carolina, woe is me, Carolina! This team creates but doesn't finish. If they do, they can win. Minnesota is not giving up easy goals. Zach Parise is still out, but the team seems to be carrying on.
Minnesota 7/3
17 Vancouver at 16 Ottawa
Ottawa will have to play better in their own zone. There offense looked pretty creative in their last, but the defense zone saw terrible coverage. Vancouver played a solid game against Columbus. Ottawa have dropped a bit since last season, I think it is systemic. They didn't give up the great chances and rebounds they have this season. We'll see if Vancouver can take advantage. Vancouver is a mediocre team that plays well together. They need better pieces.
Ottawa 6/4
26 Calgary at 14 Tampa Bay
Tampa Bay continues to slide. How can this team NOT score? It makes little sense to me, unless they just aren't working. The lines are being jumbled for the game tonight. Calgary is playing better - they are generating some offense it seems (18 goals in their last 5games). If they get three in this one, they should win. I still am holding on to the idea that this Lightning is good and just not putting it all out there. They have to turn it around at some point.
Tampa Bay 6/4
22 Buffalo at 21 Florida
Florida is not a bad team. But they aren't playing so well. Buffalo has that young energy and when Jack Eichel is that energy, the team has a chance every night. He isn't quite in that category, but he is certainly getting there. I enjoy watching him play. Add a very solid Sam Reinhart and the Sabres have a bright future.
Buffalo 7/3
30 Toronto at 7 Nashville
Nashville's offense looked pretty sharp against the Senators the other night. They were getting in front of the goalie and making nice passes. Their own zone coverage faltered a bit, though. If they get the one part right and continue with the other, Toronto doesn't have a chance. And that is a Maple Leafs team that is playing better hockey. Otherwise, Toronto can finish as well as Ottawa did and this could be a barn-burner. Toronto beating Dallas twice now is hard to understand.
Nashville 7/3
12 New Jersey at 9 Chicago
Patrick Kane. This is really a tossup in my mind but I will take Kane's side anyway.
Chicago 6/4
11 Winnipeg at 3 Dallas
With the exception of how they play against Toronto, Dallas is the best team in the league. Benn and Seguin over Wheeler and Byfuglien.
Dallas 8/2
27 Edmonton at 25 Arizona
Edmonton had a nice win vs Anaheim last night. Their forwards are very skilled finishers. I think Arizona will get chances and if they finish a good percentage of them, they win. Edmonton's defense protects the middle, I think they can win.
Tossup 5/5
13 New York Islanders at 5 Los Angeles
The Kings losing to Arizona Tuesday night and Columbus last week keeps me from believing the Kings are fully on stride right now. But they are close. The Isles have a lot to work on but they can beat anyone on a given night. They have that kind of offense.
Los Angeles 6/4
Predictability score: 6.42
Reviews: November 11th
1 Montreal 3 10 Pittsburgh 4 (SO) --
Mike Condon played big. I think the Penguins got better chances and more of them. This is another case where the goalie that gets the WIN was not the best goalie on the ice. That said, Pittsburgh has to be happy with the way their offense generated opportunities against a very good Montreal team. Sidney Crosby did produce but he is not as solid as I've seen him. If Pittsburgh plays as they did in this one, I think they are the team from the East and the battle for that Stanley Cup thing will be fun to watch. Montreal's forwards, Max Pacioretty and Thomas Plekanec, are good but they are beatable - they have to be a force for this team to be dominant - which is nice, because that is not a long distance to travel. I cannot imagine the Pens if Malkin and Crosby return to forms we have seen from them in the past.
Tossup 5/5
27 Edmonton 4 at 15 Anaheim 3 (OT) NOPE
Corey Perry did what he could. His second goal was a thing of beauty - goal-scorer hands. Then Ryan Nugent-Hopkins shows off his hands on the next goal. That was a good game, these teams both have huge holes in their play. They both give up a lot in front of their goalies. Edmonton needs that mobile smart defenseman - not Mike Green, at Detroit - mobile but not a great defensive asset, more like a Sami Vatanen who plays both ends of the ice well. The Oilers have a long list of handsy guys. They could also use a guy like Pascal Dupuis - tough and capable in the offensive zone.
Anaheim 6/4
Mike Condon played big. I think the Penguins got better chances and more of them. This is another case where the goalie that gets the WIN was not the best goalie on the ice. That said, Pittsburgh has to be happy with the way their offense generated opportunities against a very good Montreal team. Sidney Crosby did produce but he is not as solid as I've seen him. If Pittsburgh plays as they did in this one, I think they are the team from the East and the battle for that Stanley Cup thing will be fun to watch. Montreal's forwards, Max Pacioretty and Thomas Plekanec, are good but they are beatable - they have to be a force for this team to be dominant - which is nice, because that is not a long distance to travel. I cannot imagine the Pens if Malkin and Crosby return to forms we have seen from them in the past.
Tossup 5/5
27 Edmonton 4 at 15 Anaheim 3 (OT) NOPE
Corey Perry did what he could. His second goal was a thing of beauty - goal-scorer hands. Then Ryan Nugent-Hopkins shows off his hands on the next goal. That was a good game, these teams both have huge holes in their play. They both give up a lot in front of their goalies. Edmonton needs that mobile smart defenseman - not Mike Green, at Detroit - mobile but not a great defensive asset, more like a Sami Vatanen who plays both ends of the ice well. The Oilers have a long list of handsy guys. They could also use a guy like Pascal Dupuis - tough and capable in the offensive zone.
Anaheim 6/4
0-1-1 for the night
score: 4.50
score: 4.50
11 November 2015
Games Tonight: November 11th
Two games on the schedule.
1 Montreal at 10 Pittsburgh
Pittsburgh will be a great test for this vaunted Montreal squad. Losing their last game to Calgary has to motivate them to work instead of play. Sidney Crosby was minus-4 against the Flames - that is a killer for the Pens. Montreal is still the best team right now. With a clean win here, the gap between them and the rest grows a bit in my eyes. Subban will be a factor, as always. Mike Condon has been playing respectably in goal for the injured Price.
Tossup 5/5
27 Edmonton at 15 Anaheim
Neither of these teams is playing great, however, Anaheim is playing better than they have while Edmonton is playing worse than their best this season. I like both of these teams and enjoy a lot of the players. Sami Vatanen showed some brilliance in the Ducks' loss against Arizona. Jakob Silfverberg shows flashes and can be an impact winger. Ryan Getzlaf needs to get in gear for the Ducks to be successful - he made quite the gaff in the Arizona loss. Darnell Nurse might be the real deal on defense for Edmonton, I like his play. Taylor Hall is a very good forward. The Oilers lack the hard working play from the forwards, with the exception of Benoit Pouliot, maybe. Anaheim needs this one.
Anaheim 6/4
1 Montreal at 10 Pittsburgh
Pittsburgh will be a great test for this vaunted Montreal squad. Losing their last game to Calgary has to motivate them to work instead of play. Sidney Crosby was minus-4 against the Flames - that is a killer for the Pens. Montreal is still the best team right now. With a clean win here, the gap between them and the rest grows a bit in my eyes. Subban will be a factor, as always. Mike Condon has been playing respectably in goal for the injured Price.
Tossup 5/5
27 Edmonton at 15 Anaheim
Neither of these teams is playing great, however, Anaheim is playing better than they have while Edmonton is playing worse than their best this season. I like both of these teams and enjoy a lot of the players. Sami Vatanen showed some brilliance in the Ducks' loss against Arizona. Jakob Silfverberg shows flashes and can be an impact winger. Ryan Getzlaf needs to get in gear for the Ducks to be successful - he made quite the gaff in the Arizona loss. Darnell Nurse might be the real deal on defense for Edmonton, I like his play. Taylor Hall is a very good forward. The Oilers lack the hard working play from the forwards, with the exception of Benoit Pouliot, maybe. Anaheim needs this one.
Anaheim 6/4
Predictability score: 5.50
Reviews: November 10th
Not a good night of picks but still some games went my way - for my heart :)
6 St. Louis 2 12 New Jersey 0 YES
Jake Allen is gonna get all the praise - two shutouts in a row. Not an overly busy night as that Pietrangelo anchored defense kept New Jersey out of the middle mostly. The real story to me is that sweet shot by Martin Havlat from another aging vet Scott Gomez. That is like great added value from two basically free talents for St. Louis. New Jersey has been playing well, but when your leading scorers muster 7 shots on net they better be sharp. Cammalleri had the best chance for the Devils late and he missed the puck on an open net.
St Louis 6/4
24 Carolina 0 2 New York Rangers 3 YES
The opposite of my fear. Yay! Carolina makes goalies look great. Lundqvist played very well and made at least two big saves. Carolina had more than one opportunity with time in front of the net and didn't place the puck well, missing the net completely in one case. The Rangers' first two goals were excellent - Jesper Fast lasered one to the top opposite corner and then Rick Nash with a quick little deke on Cam Ward for an easy tuck in to an empty net. Mats Zuccarello set that up with a beautiful fake shot and pass to Nash behind the defense. The Canes can skate with any team. If they finish opportunities they can be a really good team. Note for Coach Bill Peters - spend 3 hours a day making players finish their shots. The Rangers have been finishing their opportunities so far this season. That can bode well!
New York Rangers 6/4
29 Colorado 4 23 Philadelphia 0 NOPE
Freaking Flyers. Who can tell with this team!? As soon as I say they suck, they'll crank out 7 wins in 8 games with 2 shutouts. I really think they are thin on defense. And their bottom six forwards are not solid. And guys like Voracek and Couturier are invisible. -- still waiting to review this one.
Philadelphia 6/4
17 Vancouver at 28 Columbus NOPE
Columbus 6/4
4 Washington at 18 Detroit NOPE
Washington 7/3
22 Buffalo at 14 Tampa Bay --
Tossup 5/5
26 Calgary at 21 Florida YES
Florida 6/4
16 Ottawa at 7 Nashville YES
Nashville 6/4
11 Winnipeg at 8 Minnesota NOPE
Winnipeg 6/4
30 Toronto at 3 Dallas NOPE
Dallas 6/4
25 Arizona at 5 Los Angeles NOPE
Los Angeles 7/3
13 New York Islanders at 19 San Jose YES
New York Islanders 8/2
* By the way, the ranking numbers come from ESPN.
6 St. Louis 2 12 New Jersey 0 YES
Jake Allen is gonna get all the praise - two shutouts in a row. Not an overly busy night as that Pietrangelo anchored defense kept New Jersey out of the middle mostly. The real story to me is that sweet shot by Martin Havlat from another aging vet Scott Gomez. That is like great added value from two basically free talents for St. Louis. New Jersey has been playing well, but when your leading scorers muster 7 shots on net they better be sharp. Cammalleri had the best chance for the Devils late and he missed the puck on an open net.
St Louis 6/4
24 Carolina 0 2 New York Rangers 3 YES
The opposite of my fear. Yay! Carolina makes goalies look great. Lundqvist played very well and made at least two big saves. Carolina had more than one opportunity with time in front of the net and didn't place the puck well, missing the net completely in one case. The Rangers' first two goals were excellent - Jesper Fast lasered one to the top opposite corner and then Rick Nash with a quick little deke on Cam Ward for an easy tuck in to an empty net. Mats Zuccarello set that up with a beautiful fake shot and pass to Nash behind the defense. The Canes can skate with any team. If they finish opportunities they can be a really good team. Note for Coach Bill Peters - spend 3 hours a day making players finish their shots. The Rangers have been finishing their opportunities so far this season. That can bode well!
New York Rangers 6/4
29 Colorado 4 23 Philadelphia 0 NOPE
Freaking Flyers. Who can tell with this team!? As soon as I say they suck, they'll crank out 7 wins in 8 games with 2 shutouts. I really think they are thin on defense. And their bottom six forwards are not solid. And guys like Voracek and Couturier are invisible. -- still waiting to review this one.
Philadelphia 6/4
17 Vancouver at 28 Columbus NOPE
Columbus 6/4
4 Washington at 18 Detroit NOPE
Washington 7/3
22 Buffalo at 14 Tampa Bay --
Tossup 5/5
26 Calgary at 21 Florida YES
Florida 6/4
16 Ottawa at 7 Nashville YES
Nashville 6/4
11 Winnipeg at 8 Minnesota NOPE
Winnipeg 6/4
30 Toronto at 3 Dallas NOPE
Dallas 6/4
25 Arizona at 5 Los Angeles NOPE
Los Angeles 7/3
13 New York Islanders at 19 San Jose YES
New York Islanders 8/2
5-6-1 for the night
score: 6.25
score: 6.25
* By the way, the ranking numbers come from ESPN.
10 November 2015
Goalies are Overrated: Evidence.
Funny feature to read
I like the idea of this guy's feature - "who's play is just uncharacteristically crappy". That's kinda funny. But see if you find this edition of the article annoying. I do and here's why...
If anyone has been watching Calgary - Jonas Hiller is not the problem. Hiller plays well if he has a defense to support him (as is the case with most NHL goalies). Don't get me wrong, I think Hiller is only an adequate goalie, anyway - he played on Anaheim when the Ducks were a tight defensive puck control team (despite what the Advanced Analystical folks might say). Anaheim made Hiller look pretty good, but he still would have nights where he looked shaky. And a shaky goalie can lose games for you...
Regardless, Hiller is not Calgary's problem. No goalie saves this team. It is a systemic issue with the skaters not buying in or reading off each other well. Something in the chemistry is off from last season.
As I've said, goalies are good thermometers for how the team is playing its system. Hiller is a particularly sensitive thermometer. I think his style of play is easy to take advantage of if the shooter has time. He is often back in his net with late committal to the shooter. So if a shooter has time and a lot of net, Hiller is going to look like a sieve. And he has.
Calgary has to protect the middle ice in front the goalie - no matter who it is.
Hiller might end up being the backup, no matter what happens, but replacing him with All-World Carey Price won't make Calgary a playoff contender.
And the author of the article, PuckStopsHere guy, is just too certain. He states rather plainly Hiller is largely to blame for Calgary's record - why they are last in the Western Conference. And that is why I have to proclaim Goalies are Overrated.
I like the idea of this guy's feature - "who's play is just uncharacteristically crappy". That's kinda funny. But see if you find this edition of the article annoying. I do and here's why...
If anyone has been watching Calgary - Jonas Hiller is not the problem. Hiller plays well if he has a defense to support him (as is the case with most NHL goalies). Don't get me wrong, I think Hiller is only an adequate goalie, anyway - he played on Anaheim when the Ducks were a tight defensive puck control team (despite what the Advanced Analystical folks might say). Anaheim made Hiller look pretty good, but he still would have nights where he looked shaky. And a shaky goalie can lose games for you...
Regardless, Hiller is not Calgary's problem. No goalie saves this team. It is a systemic issue with the skaters not buying in or reading off each other well. Something in the chemistry is off from last season.
As I've said, goalies are good thermometers for how the team is playing its system. Hiller is a particularly sensitive thermometer. I think his style of play is easy to take advantage of if the shooter has time. He is often back in his net with late committal to the shooter. So if a shooter has time and a lot of net, Hiller is going to look like a sieve. And he has.
Calgary has to protect the middle ice in front the goalie - no matter who it is.
Hiller might end up being the backup, no matter what happens, but replacing him with All-World Carey Price won't make Calgary a playoff contender.
And the author of the article, PuckStopsHere guy, is just too certain. He states rather plainly Hiller is largely to blame for Calgary's record - why they are last in the Western Conference. And that is why I have to proclaim Goalies are Overrated.
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