Across the board NHL goalies are all making the same saves.
Over and over there are three basic "Great Saves" and in every case, the responsibility of the shooter is ignored.
1. Skater A makes a nice pass to Skater B. Skater B has a wide open net. Goalie facing Skater A slides with pad across ice toward the post. Skater B shoots the puck on the ice toward the open net. The puck hits the pad. GREAT SAVE.
2. Skater A has time. Goalie comes out to face Skater A, pads in semi butterfly, stick and blocker ready to cover 5-hole or post and the glove wide open low above the leg pad. Skater A shoots the puck for glove side - right into the glove. Goalie slings glove in air as though he made the dazzling catch (thank Patrick Roy). GREAT SAVE.
3. Skater A has time with the puck. Goalie comes out square to Skater A. Skater A slides a pass over to Skater B. Skater B shoots ice level (and a lot of times right at the middle of the net). The Goalie slides over with his stick on the ice to block the poorly shot puck. GREAT SAVE.
I guess, no two saves are the exact same but you can group a lot of the GREAT SAVEs into these three types.
Why do I have a problem with this? The shooter's responsibility is ignored. Why is it that goalies, all goalies, make these same moves in these same situations and many times the save isn't made? Because the shooter puts the puck 10 to 12 inches high and near the post. Or even better, when a guy like Patrick Kane roofs it under the post.
Every Skater is trying to do this. Not all are as proficient. And not all Skaters are getting a clean pass and not all Skaters have the same space. There are many factors outside the goalie's control that determine whether the shot is placed well. These factors are usually ignored. And that is why I have to say Goalies are Overrated.
Twitter this guy: @GregBalloch
He does 6 saves a night maybe. Notice where the puck goes. Notice how all the goalies are making the same moves as described above.
A shooter's skill is the prime thing determining goals. And every skater takes better shots when they have time. And the shots come off with better accuracy when the passer makes a nice pass. And the defensive system and how it is executed by the players is what impacts the shooter's ability to get a shot off cleanly and a passer's ability to make a clean pass. None of this has anything to do with the goalie. But every GREAT SAVE ignores these facts and, again, that is why I have to say Goalies are Overrated.
30 December 2015
Goalies are Overrated: Kings versus Edmonton 12/29/2015
Not all saves by a goalie are the result of a guess. Most are actually just solid positioning. I am primarily trying to address the issue that Jonathan Quick didn't have a markedly better game than Edmonton's goalies. The shots and chances he faced were of poorer quality regardless that he faced more low quality ones.
This game is why everything is wrong about goalie perceptions.
A cursory look at highlights and statistics can easily give the impression that one goalie played sensationally and the other, two, not so much.
However, there are some things going on here beyond numbers and choice highlights.
First, every shot is not equal. So the 44 shots faced by Jonathan Quick were not equivalent to the 33 shots faced by the Edmonton tending committee. Quick was forced to make maybe two "sensational" saves. Edmonton buried two high quality opportunities and missed the net on at least a couple others.
Missed the net. Goalies do get credit, indirectly, for the times when the opposition misses the net. Especially when the net is wide open. Edmonton did that.
Likewise, when a player shoots the puck right at the goalie - the goalie gets high amounts of credit, directly. "Oh what a save!" No, it's not a save. The player may as well have missed the net with his shot. The goalie positioned himself well, sure. But the shooter failed to place his shot. Edmonton did that as well. Los Angeles did that LESS.
To rate these goalies - Jonathan Quick clearly played a solid game. If the Kings had not finished the chances they did and the Kings had lost - it would not have been Quick's fault. However, the Edmonton tandem of Cam Talbot and Anders Nilsson are to be blamed for the loss either.
Talbot let in one questionable goal. But it is not an uncommon type of goal. And every goalie lets these in on occasion. Dwight King gets the puck at the redline, uncontested, and fires a bad angle shot above Talbot's left leg pad. The rub for Talbot on this one - if he had been guarding the post, the shot probably would not have gone in. However, when a player has the puck uncontested at the redline, the goalie has to think of the far-side pass and the shot. The shot often seems secondary and many goalies get burned on that type of play.
The next goal, Talbot was caught in a similar spot. Michael Mersch pulled the puck off the boards behind the redline and beat the defender to the front of the net. This time, Talbot guarded the post a bit more and Mersch takes the puck five hole on him. Also, something that happens to every goalie. On a different night, Talbot guesses correctly and gets two saves, one even looking sensational.
And Quick had THAT one. Leon Draisatl got the puck with space behind the redline and does almost the identical move that Mersch scored on against Talbot. Quick guesses far post and does his slide across covering the ice. Draisatl puts into Quick's outstretched pad. It looks sensational. And I am sure we can find a highlight from Cam Talbot making the same save on a different night - where he made the right guess. On the other hand, had Draisatl made a quick adjustment and shot for the five hole, he could have caught Quick cheating and scored just as Talbot was scored on by Dwight King.
The next goal against Talbot gets him pulled. But again, no goalie saves this in most instances. The shot was placed by an uncontested Tyler Toffoli. Top shelf corner. Sorry, "Let's go Kings" grandma, Quick doesn't save this one either. How do I know?
Edmonton's first goal was the result of a similar play. Benoit Pouliot could have pushed the puck wide of the net - Quick keeps a shutout alive! He could have shot into Quick's chest. But the uncontested Pouliot shifts his stick and catches Quick five-hole. Every goalie gives up this type of goal. It's a guessing game, folks. Drop down to cover five-hole, he saves this one. Guess on a shot off the post and he gets burned through the wide stance.
And that's just it. Every shot is not equal. Edmonton goalies didn't make the right guesses on the shots where they only had time to guess. And they faced more of those types of shots. Quick was two guesses away from a shutout.
And since he faced 44 shots, he gets First Star for the game - which is why I say that Goalies are Overrated.
This game is why everything is wrong about goalie perceptions.
A cursory look at highlights and statistics can easily give the impression that one goalie played sensationally and the other, two, not so much.
However, there are some things going on here beyond numbers and choice highlights.
First, every shot is not equal. So the 44 shots faced by Jonathan Quick were not equivalent to the 33 shots faced by the Edmonton tending committee. Quick was forced to make maybe two "sensational" saves. Edmonton buried two high quality opportunities and missed the net on at least a couple others.
Missed the net. Goalies do get credit, indirectly, for the times when the opposition misses the net. Especially when the net is wide open. Edmonton did that.
Likewise, when a player shoots the puck right at the goalie - the goalie gets high amounts of credit, directly. "Oh what a save!" No, it's not a save. The player may as well have missed the net with his shot. The goalie positioned himself well, sure. But the shooter failed to place his shot. Edmonton did that as well. Los Angeles did that LESS.
To rate these goalies - Jonathan Quick clearly played a solid game. If the Kings had not finished the chances they did and the Kings had lost - it would not have been Quick's fault. However, the Edmonton tandem of Cam Talbot and Anders Nilsson are to be blamed for the loss either.
Talbot let in one questionable goal. But it is not an uncommon type of goal. And every goalie lets these in on occasion. Dwight King gets the puck at the redline, uncontested, and fires a bad angle shot above Talbot's left leg pad. The rub for Talbot on this one - if he had been guarding the post, the shot probably would not have gone in. However, when a player has the puck uncontested at the redline, the goalie has to think of the far-side pass and the shot. The shot often seems secondary and many goalies get burned on that type of play.
The next goal, Talbot was caught in a similar spot. Michael Mersch pulled the puck off the boards behind the redline and beat the defender to the front of the net. This time, Talbot guarded the post a bit more and Mersch takes the puck five hole on him. Also, something that happens to every goalie. On a different night, Talbot guesses correctly and gets two saves, one even looking sensational.
And Quick had THAT one. Leon Draisatl got the puck with space behind the redline and does almost the identical move that Mersch scored on against Talbot. Quick guesses far post and does his slide across covering the ice. Draisatl puts into Quick's outstretched pad. It looks sensational. And I am sure we can find a highlight from Cam Talbot making the same save on a different night - where he made the right guess. On the other hand, had Draisatl made a quick adjustment and shot for the five hole, he could have caught Quick cheating and scored just as Talbot was scored on by Dwight King.
The next goal against Talbot gets him pulled. But again, no goalie saves this in most instances. The shot was placed by an uncontested Tyler Toffoli. Top shelf corner. Sorry, "Let's go Kings" grandma, Quick doesn't save this one either. How do I know?
Edmonton's first goal was the result of a similar play. Benoit Pouliot could have pushed the puck wide of the net - Quick keeps a shutout alive! He could have shot into Quick's chest. But the uncontested Pouliot shifts his stick and catches Quick five-hole. Every goalie gives up this type of goal. It's a guessing game, folks. Drop down to cover five-hole, he saves this one. Guess on a shot off the post and he gets burned through the wide stance.
And that's just it. Every shot is not equal. Edmonton goalies didn't make the right guesses on the shots where they only had time to guess. And they faced more of those types of shots. Quick was two guesses away from a shutout.
And since he faced 44 shots, he gets First Star for the game - which is why I say that Goalies are Overrated.
25 December 2015
Fifteen: Montreal ( Atlantic)
Montreal can't seem to find the scoring. I'm not sure who is more needed, Brendan Gallagher RW adds good depth at forward. Carey Price G is a great goalie. The Canadiens are hurting on both ends of the ice. I'm still a believer in what coach Michel Therrien has put together here - this team is better than what their last fifteen days show.
Record: 20 - 13 - 3 43pts ( projected: 23 - 15 - 4 50pts)
Significant Injuries:
Brendan Gallagher RW
Carey Price G
Both of these guys are important to this team. The backup goalies seem inconsistent, so having Price back in net should boost the team's confidence.
Next Fifteen Days: 12/25/2015 - 1/8/2016
Saturday at Washington
Monday at Tampa Bay
Tuesday at Florida
Friday at Boston
Tuesday at Philadelphia
Wednesday New Jersey visits
Who knows what happens next! I have to believe they are better than the last fifteen. They are capable of winning most of these. And they are capable of losing all of these.
LOSS 2 - 3 at Detroit
WIN 3 - 1 Ottawa
LOSS 1 - 3 San Jose
LOSS 0 - 3 Los Angeles
LOSS 2 - 6 at Dallas
LOSS 1 - 5 at Nashville
LOSS 1 - 2 at Minnesota
The loss streak could go to 4 pretty easily tonight. Detroit is playing really good hockey. Overall this is not an easy 15 days. Ottawa, San Jose, Nashville and Minnesota should be 7 or 8 points. If they grab 3 points from Detroit, LA and Dallas, they are "righting the ship" so to speak.
It couldn't have been worse for the Habs in this fifteen days. Well, they could have lost to Ottawa. So there is THAT, right? Wow.
Record: 20 - 13 - 3 43pts ( projected: 23 - 15 - 4 50pts)
19 - 7 - 3 41pts ( projected: 22 - 8 - 6 50pts)
Significant Injuries:
Brendan Gallagher RW
Carey Price G
Both of these guys are important to this team. The backup goalies seem inconsistent, so having Price back in net should boost the team's confidence.
Next Fifteen Days: 12/25/2015 - 1/8/2016
Saturday at Washington
Monday at Tampa Bay
Tuesday at Florida
Friday at Boston
Tuesday at Philadelphia
Wednesday New Jersey visits
Who knows what happens next! I have to believe they are better than the last fifteen. They are capable of winning most of these. And they are capable of losing all of these.
7 out of 12pts
3 - 2 - 1
Last Fifteen Days 12/10/2015 - 12/24/2015:LOSS 2 - 3 at Detroit
WIN 3 - 1 Ottawa
LOSS 1 - 3 San Jose
LOSS 0 - 3 Los Angeles
LOSS 2 - 6 at Dallas
LOSS 1 - 5 at Nashville
LOSS 1 - 2 at Minnesota
The loss streak could go to 4 pretty easily tonight. Detroit is playing really good hockey. Overall this is not an easy 15 days. Ottawa, San Jose, Nashville and Minnesota should be 7 or 8 points. If they grab 3 points from Detroit, LA and Dallas, they are "righting the ship" so to speak.
It couldn't have been worse for the Habs in this fifteen days. Well, they could have lost to Ottawa. So there is THAT, right? Wow.
2out of 14pts
1 - 6 - 0
Fifteen: Los Angeles (1st Pacific)
Los Angeles is a very solid team. But in any sport, if you don't focus you lose. Drew Doughty D was on the ice a lot in those recent losses. Anze Kopitar C was out there a lot, too. These two are key shutdown guys, so if goals are going in against them, LA probably isn't winning. I figure coach Darryl Sutter will be able to refocus this group. They have played some unbeatable hockey this season.
Record: 20 - 11 - 2 42pts (projected: 24 - 13 - 3 51pts)
Significant Injuries:
No significant injuries.
Next Fifteen Days: 12/25/2015 - 1/8/2016
Saturday at Arizona
Monday at Vancouver
Tuesday at Edmonton
Thursday at Calgary
Saturday Philadelphia visits
Monday at Colorado
Thursday Toronto visits
I look for the Kings to bounce back coming out of the Christmas break and, really, this is a light part of the schedule. If they take any of these lightly, however, they could lose some important points. Edmonton, Calgary, Philly and Colorado are playing much improved hockey in December.
Last Fifteen Days 12/10/2015 - 12/24/2015:
WIN 3 -2 (SO) at Pittsburgh
LOSS 1 - 2 (OT) at Buffalo
LOSS 3 - 5 at Ottawa
WIN 3 - 0 at Montreal
LOSS 0 - 5 at Toronto
LOSS 3 - 5 San Jose
A nice road trip or two. This will be a great measure of just how focused the Kings are. They've got a five game win streak going now. I think they could lose to either Pittsburgh or Montreal but neither are playing so great right now. LA could come away from this with an 11 game win streak at Christmas.
How wrong I was. The opposite occurred. They beat Montreal and Pittsburgh and have some very ugly losses in the others. I can't say I watched many of these games. That loss to Toronto and losing in the 3rd period to San Jose are huge.
Record: 20 - 11 - 2 42pts (projected: 24 - 13 - 3 51pts)
18 - 8 - 1 37pts ( projected: 23 - 9 - 1 50pts)
Significant Injuries:
No significant injuries.
Next Fifteen Days: 12/25/2015 - 1/8/2016
Saturday at Arizona
Monday at Vancouver
Tuesday at Edmonton
Thursday at Calgary
Saturday Philadelphia visits
Monday at Colorado
Thursday Toronto visits
I look for the Kings to bounce back coming out of the Christmas break and, really, this is a light part of the schedule. If they take any of these lightly, however, they could lose some important points. Edmonton, Calgary, Philly and Colorado are playing much improved hockey in December.
9 out of 14pts
4 - 2 - 1
Last Fifteen Days 12/10/2015 - 12/24/2015:
WIN 3 -2 (SO) at Pittsburgh
LOSS 1 - 2 (OT) at Buffalo
LOSS 3 - 5 at Ottawa
WIN 3 - 0 at Montreal
LOSS 0 - 5 at Toronto
LOSS 3 - 5 San Jose
A nice road trip or two. This will be a great measure of just how focused the Kings are. They've got a five game win streak going now. I think they could lose to either Pittsburgh or Montreal but neither are playing so great right now. LA could come away from this with an 11 game win streak at Christmas.
How wrong I was. The opposite occurred. They beat Montreal and Pittsburgh and have some very ugly losses in the others. I can't say I watched many of these games. That loss to Toronto and losing in the 3rd period to San Jose are huge.
5 out of 12pts
2 - 3 - 1
24 December 2015
Fifteen: Philadelphia (5th Metropolitan)
Philadelphia has some positive play here. They have good talent. I haven't watched them play of late, so I don't know for sure what is going here.
Record: 15 - 12 - 7 37pts ( projected: 18 - 13 - 7 43pts)
Significant Injuries:
Same Gagner C
He's a solid player with good hands - he got 7 points in a game with Edmonton a few years back.
Next Fifteen Days 12/23/2015 - 1/6/2015:
Sunday at Anaheim
Wednesday at San Jose
Saturday at Los Angeles
Tuesday Montreal visits
They should win the first two of this west coast swing. Montreal's play of late makes that game a "should win" as well. Sweeping this fifteen would be great.
Last Fifteen Days 12/8/2015 - 12/22/2015:
LOSS 3 - 4 (SO) New York Islanders
WIN 4 - 2 at St. Louis
LOSS 1 - 3 at Dallas
WIN 4 - 3 (OT) Carolina
WIN 2 - 0 Vancouver
LOSS 2 - 3 (SO) at Columbus
WIN 4 - 3 St. Louis
Record: 15 - 12 - 7 37pts ( projected: 18 - 13 - 7 43pts)
Significant Injuries:
Same Gagner C
He's a solid player with good hands - he got 7 points in a game with Edmonton a few years back.
Next Fifteen Days 12/23/2015 - 1/6/2015:
Sunday at Anaheim
Wednesday at San Jose
Saturday at Los Angeles
Tuesday Montreal visits
They should win the first two of this west coast swing. Montreal's play of late makes that game a "should win" as well. Sweeping this fifteen would be great.
6 out of 8pts
3 - 1 - 0
Last Fifteen Days 12/8/2015 - 12/22/2015:
LOSS 3 - 4 (SO) New York Islanders
WIN 4 - 2 at St. Louis
LOSS 1 - 3 at Dallas
WIN 4 - 3 (OT) Carolina
WIN 2 - 0 Vancouver
LOSS 2 - 3 (SO) at Columbus
WIN 4 - 3 St. Louis
4 - 1 - 2
10 out of 14pts
Philly has had a good 15 days. Won the games should have and played well in the losses. Two wins against St. Louis elevates the performance.
Fifteen: Ottawa (5th Atlantic)
Vancouver plays mediocre hockey as they are a mediocre team.
Record: 12 - 14 - 9 33pts ( projected: 13 - 16 - 11 37pts)
Significant Injuries:
Henrik Sedin C
If this progresses to something serious, Vancouver will have a hard time.
Next Fifteen Days 12/21/2015 - 1/4/2015:
Tuesday at Tampa Bay
Saturday Edmonton visits
Monday Los Angeles visits
Friday Anaheim visits
Monday Arizona visits
This is a very winnable fifteen - drop the one to Los Angeles and win the rest puts Vancouver in a good spot to start the new year.
Last Fifteen Days 12/6/2015 - 12/20/2015:
WIN 5 - 2 Buffalo
WIN 2 - 1 New York Rangers
LOSS 4 - 0 at Chicago
LOSS 6 - 2 at Minnesota
LOSS 2 - 0 at Philadelphia
WIN 4 - 3 (SO) at Detroit
LOSS 4 - 5 (SO) at Florida
Record: 12 - 14 - 9 33pts ( projected: 13 - 16 - 11 37pts)
Significant Injuries:
Henrik Sedin C
If this progresses to something serious, Vancouver will have a hard time.
Next Fifteen Days 12/21/2015 - 1/4/2015:
Tuesday at Tampa Bay
Saturday Edmonton visits
Monday Los Angeles visits
Friday Anaheim visits
Monday Arizona visits
This is a very winnable fifteen - drop the one to Los Angeles and win the rest puts Vancouver in a good spot to start the new year.
4 out of 10pts
1 - 2 - 2
Last Fifteen Days 12/6/2015 - 12/20/2015:
WIN 5 - 2 Buffalo
WIN 2 - 1 New York Rangers
LOSS 4 - 0 at Chicago
LOSS 6 - 2 at Minnesota
LOSS 2 - 0 at Philadelphia
WIN 4 - 3 (SO) at Detroit
LOSS 4 - 5 (SO) at Florida
3 - 3 - 1
7 out of 14pts
About what to expect from Vancouver, maybe slightly better than expected.
Fifteen: Calgary (5th Pacific)
I enjoyed watching Calgary play last season. They are finally playing that way again. Coach Bob Hartley is proven and despite my doubts, if they make the playoffs this season, he will move up a notch in my book. Johnny Gaudreau LW is playing great hockey - 13pts 7g/6a and +8 in the 9 games of december, certainly showing his importance to this team's successes. Mark Giordano D is starting to turn his game around, as well. T.J. Brodie D and Sean Monahan C have been valuable in this December run.
Record: 16 - 16 - 2 34pts ( projected: 16 - 16 - 2 34pts)
Significant Injuries:
Michael Frolik RW
Certainly a solid player.
Next Fifteen Days 12/22/2015 - 1/5/2015:
Tuesday Winnipeg visits
Sunday Edmonton visits
Tuesday Anaheim visits
Thursday Los Angeles visits
Saturday at Colorado
Tuesday Tampa Bay visits
Fifteen days to face those teams, with the exception of Los Angeles, that Calgary wants to be separating itself from. To show themselves playoff worthy, the Flames need to win four of the six and get points from the other two.
Last Fifteen Days 12/7/2015 - 12/21/2015:
WIN 4 - 2 San Jose
WIN 4 -3 Buffalo
WIN 5 - 4 (OT) New York Rangers
WIN 2 - 1 (OT) at Nashville
WIN 3 - 1 at Dallas
LOSS 2 - 3 at St. Louis
LOSS 2 - 4 at Detroit
Record: 16 - 16 - 2 34pts ( projected: 16 - 16 - 2 34pts)
Significant Injuries:
Michael Frolik RW
Certainly a solid player.
Next Fifteen Days 12/22/2015 - 1/5/2015:
Tuesday Winnipeg visits
Sunday Edmonton visits
Tuesday Anaheim visits
Thursday Los Angeles visits
Saturday at Colorado
Tuesday Tampa Bay visits
Fifteen days to face those teams, with the exception of Los Angeles, that Calgary wants to be separating itself from. To show themselves playoff worthy, the Flames need to win four of the six and get points from the other two.
9 out of 12pts
4 - 1 - 1
Last Fifteen Days 12/7/2015 - 12/21/2015:
WIN 4 - 2 San Jose
WIN 4 -3 Buffalo
WIN 5 - 4 (OT) New York Rangers
WIN 2 - 1 (OT) at Nashville
WIN 3 - 1 at Dallas
LOSS 2 - 3 at St. Louis
LOSS 2 - 4 at Detroit
5 - 2 - 0
10 out of 14pts
Calgary is starting to play more like they did last season. This fifteen days started by adding five wins for a seven game win streak - very impressive win against Dallas included. Those late losses are not bad losses.
22 December 2015
Elliotte Friedman 30 things...
30 Thoughts
I like to read this article when Elliotte Friedman puts it out there. He certainly has his hands and ears in the hockey world.
I'd like to know more about Ryan Getzlaf C - big part of any Anaheim successes. His production is down along with the team's performance - no doubt. If he is injured and hiding it, um, not smart. I think Anaheim's troubles are starting in their own zone. When you move out a top guy like Francois Beauchemin D, now with Colorado, it pushes every other d-man in the system up. If they can't fill those minutes with equal quality, the team isn't going to be as good. People love pointing at goalies but to me this is a prime example of how important other players are to a team. And Beauchemin is not in the top-ten of defensemen.
The Predators getting a young forward would be highly impactful if the price isn't one of the three players mentioned. Otherwise, I think, the bad outweighs the good. Don't get me wrong, Nashville is definitely a piece or two away from nabbing that Cup - but maybe just getting an older forward for less would be fine. Shane Doan RW for Arizona? I know he isn't truly available - but for a couple of picks, he might be a worthy try.
I like to read this article when Elliotte Friedman puts it out there. He certainly has his hands and ears in the hockey world.
I'd like to know more about Ryan Getzlaf C - big part of any Anaheim successes. His production is down along with the team's performance - no doubt. If he is injured and hiding it, um, not smart. I think Anaheim's troubles are starting in their own zone. When you move out a top guy like Francois Beauchemin D, now with Colorado, it pushes every other d-man in the system up. If they can't fill those minutes with equal quality, the team isn't going to be as good. People love pointing at goalies but to me this is a prime example of how important other players are to a team. And Beauchemin is not in the top-ten of defensemen.
The Predators getting a young forward would be highly impactful if the price isn't one of the three players mentioned. Otherwise, I think, the bad outweighs the good. Don't get me wrong, Nashville is definitely a piece or two away from nabbing that Cup - but maybe just getting an older forward for less would be fine. Shane Doan RW for Arizona? I know he isn't truly available - but for a couple of picks, he might be a worthy try.
Fifteen: Minnesota (4th Central)
Minnesota is a very good team with a very good core. There is talk of them potentially trading for a center. This would be great as long as it doesn't mess up chemistry. Ryan Suter D is so good but needs solid play from his forwards and other d-men - he can't do it all. Zach Parise LW is tough at both ends. Really there are a lot of good players here. But they need to be more consistent. It is nice to see Thomas Vanek LW producing. And what's not to love about Mikko Koivu C (if you aren't playing against him, anyway).
Record: 17 - 9 - 6 40pts ( projected: 20 - 11 - 8 48pts)
Significant Injuries:
No current injuries of concern.
Next Fifteen Days 12/22/2015 - 1/5/2015:
Tuesday Montreal visits
Saturday Pittsburgh visits
Monday Detroit visits
Thursday at St. Louis
Saturday at Tampa Bay
Sunday at Florida
Tuesday at Columbus
Nothing easy in this fifteen days. If they can start with win against Montreal and Pittsburgh, then winning the two of the last three is very plausible for a very good set of games.
Last Fifteen Days 12/7/2015 - 12/21/2015:
LOSS 1 - 2 (OT) at Colorado
LOSS 1 - 2 (OT) at Arizona
WIN 2 - 0 at San Jose
WIN 6 - 2 Vancouver
WIN 5 - 2 New York Rangers
LOSS 2 - 3 at Nashville
LOSS 3 - 6 Dallas
Record: 17 - 9 - 6 40pts ( projected: 20 - 11 - 8 48pts)
Significant Injuries:
No current injuries of concern.
Next Fifteen Days 12/22/2015 - 1/5/2015:
Tuesday Montreal visits
Saturday Pittsburgh visits
Monday Detroit visits
Thursday at St. Louis
Saturday at Tampa Bay
Sunday at Florida
Tuesday at Columbus
Nothing easy in this fifteen days. If they can start with win against Montreal and Pittsburgh, then winning the two of the last three is very plausible for a very good set of games.
8 out of 14pts
3 - 2 - 2
Last Fifteen Days 12/7/2015 - 12/21/2015:
LOSS 1 - 2 (OT) at Colorado
LOSS 1 - 2 (OT) at Arizona
WIN 2 - 0 at San Jose
WIN 6 - 2 Vancouver
WIN 5 - 2 New York Rangers
LOSS 2 - 3 at Nashville
LOSS 3 - 6 Dallas
3 - 2 - 2
8 out of 14pts
Some huge inconsistency in this fifteen days. Losing two points to Nashville and a point to Arizona could be big.
Fifteen: New Jersey (4th Metropolitan)
New Jersey is not empty of talent with forwards Adam Henrique C and Mike Cammalleri LW and defensemen Adam Larsson D and Damon Severson D. Still it's the depth guys that will make or break this season and have kept them in it so far. Lee Stempniak RW and Kyle Palmieri RW are putting in the effort every night. They have to keep doing it though or the bottom might fall out and crush the playoff hopes.
Record: 16 - 13 - 5 37pts ( projected: 19 - 15 - 7 45pts)
Significant Injuries:
No current injuries of concern.
Next Fifteen Days 12/22/2015 - 1/5/2015:
Tuesday at Detroit
Saturday at Carolina
Tuesday Carolina visits
Wednesday at Ottawa
Saturday Dallas visits
Monday Detroit visits
They have to get points out of Detroit in order to make this fifteen days successful. That means the games against the Canes and Sens are wins - anything else and the Devils are putting themselves on the outside looking in come playoff time.
Last Fifteen Days 12/7/2015 - 12/21/2015:
LOSS 2 - 3 (SO) at Toronto
WIN 3 - 2 (OT) Detroit
LOSS 0 - 4 at New York Islanders
WIN 2 - 0 at Buffalo
LOSS 1 - 5 Florida
LOSS 1 - 2 Anaheim
LOSS 1 - 2 (SO) at Boston
Record: 16 - 13 - 5 37pts ( projected: 19 - 15 - 7 45pts)
Significant Injuries:
No current injuries of concern.
Next Fifteen Days 12/22/2015 - 1/5/2015:
Tuesday at Detroit
Saturday at Carolina
Tuesday Carolina visits
Wednesday at Ottawa
Saturday Dallas visits
Monday Detroit visits
They have to get points out of Detroit in order to make this fifteen days successful. That means the games against the Canes and Sens are wins - anything else and the Devils are putting themselves on the outside looking in come playoff time.
7 out of 12pts
3 - 2 - 1
Last Fifteen Days 12/7/2015 - 12/21/2015:
LOSS 2 - 3 (SO) at Toronto
WIN 3 - 2 (OT) Detroit
LOSS 0 - 4 at New York Islanders
WIN 2 - 0 at Buffalo
LOSS 1 - 5 Florida
LOSS 1 - 2 Anaheim
LOSS 1 - 2 (SO) at Boston
2 - 3 - 2
6 out of 14pts
The lost some points they need here and every fifteen days. Losses at Toronto and home to Anaheim can't happen if they want the playoffs.
Fifteen: Florida (4th Atlantic)
Coach Gerard Gallant seems to put out a good system for his group of players. This could be a statement year for him. Overall, with Aleksander Barkov C in the line-up, the Panthers have a shot at making a run in the playoffs. Good leadership and good chemistry on a team with youth and veterans can be very positive down the stretch - barring injuries, of course. Jaromir Jagr RW continues to impress, at 43. The youngsters on defense, Aaron Ekblad D, 19 and Erik Gudbranson D, 23, should be making an impact for years to come!
Record: 18 - 12 - 4 40pts ( projected: 21 - 14 - 5 47pts)
Significant Injuries:
Dave Bolland C
Nick Bjugstad C
These two are very valuable for playoff success. Bolland is out with a sickness - so this should be temporary. Bjugstad is out until after Christmas and that could cost them a point or two.
Next Fifteen Days 12/22/2015 - 1/5/2015:
Tuesday Ottawa visits
Sunday Columbus visits
Tuesday Montreal visits
Saturday New York Rangers visit
Sunday Minnesota visits
Tuesday at Buffalo
Three must-wins and three other could-wins, Florida is poised for a great stretch. If not, they might sink back into the middle-tier and fighting for the playoffs.
Last Fifteen Days 12/7/2015 - 12/21/2015:
LOSS 2 - 4 Ottawa
WIN 4 - 1 Washington
LOSS 1 - 3 at Boston
WIN 5 - 1 at New York Islanders
WIN 5 - 1 at New Jersey
WIN 2 - 0 at Carolina
WIN 5 - 4 (SO) Vancouver
Record: 18 - 12 - 4 40pts ( projected: 21 - 14 - 5 47pts)
Significant Injuries:
Dave Bolland C
Nick Bjugstad C
These two are very valuable for playoff success. Bolland is out with a sickness - so this should be temporary. Bjugstad is out until after Christmas and that could cost them a point or two.
Next Fifteen Days 12/22/2015 - 1/5/2015:
Tuesday Ottawa visits
Sunday Columbus visits
Tuesday Montreal visits
Saturday New York Rangers visit
Sunday Minnesota visits
Tuesday at Buffalo
Three must-wins and three other could-wins, Florida is poised for a great stretch. If not, they might sink back into the middle-tier and fighting for the playoffs.
7 out of 12pts
3 - 2 - 1
Last Fifteen Days 12/7/2015 - 12/21/2015:
LOSS 2 - 4 Ottawa
WIN 4 - 1 Washington
LOSS 1 - 3 at Boston
WIN 5 - 1 at New York Islanders
WIN 5 - 1 at New Jersey
WIN 2 - 0 at Carolina
WIN 5 - 4 (SO) Vancouver
5 - 2 - 0
10 out of 14pts
This was a good fifteen days. Losses to both Boston and Ottawa could be bad at season's end - they are direct competition for playoff spots.
21 December 2015
Fifteen: Vancouver (3rd Pacific)
Vancouver plays mediocre hockey as they are a mediocre team.
Record: 12 - 14 - 9 33pts ( projected: 13 - 16 - 11 37pts)
Significant Injuries:
Henrik Sedin C
If this progresses to something serious, Vancouver will have a hard time.
Next Fifteen Days 12/21/2015 - 1/4/2015:
Tuesday at Tampa Bay
Saturday Edmonton visits
Monday Los Angeles visits
Friday Anaheim visits
Monday Arizona visits
This is a very winnable fifteen - drop the one to Los Angeles and win the rest puts Vancouver in a good spot to start the new year.
Last Fifteen Days 12/6/2015 - 12/20/2015:
WIN 5 - 2 Buffalo
WIN 2 - 1 New York Rangers
LOSS 4 - 0 at Chicago
LOSS 6 - 2 at Minnesota
LOSS 2 - 0 at Philadelphia
WIN 4 - 3 (SO) at Detroit
LOSS 4 - 5 (SO) at Florida
Record: 12 - 14 - 9 33pts ( projected: 13 - 16 - 11 37pts)
Significant Injuries:
Henrik Sedin C
If this progresses to something serious, Vancouver will have a hard time.
Next Fifteen Days 12/21/2015 - 1/4/2015:
Tuesday at Tampa Bay
Saturday Edmonton visits
Monday Los Angeles visits
Friday Anaheim visits
Monday Arizona visits
This is a very winnable fifteen - drop the one to Los Angeles and win the rest puts Vancouver in a good spot to start the new year.
4 out of 10pts
1 - 2 - 2
Last Fifteen Days 12/6/2015 - 12/20/2015:
WIN 5 - 2 Buffalo
WIN 2 - 1 New York Rangers
LOSS 4 - 0 at Chicago
LOSS 6 - 2 at Minnesota
LOSS 2 - 0 at Philadelphia
WIN 4 - 3 (SO) at Detroit
LOSS 4 - 5 (SO) at Florida
3 - 3 - 1
7 out of 14pts
About what to expect from Vancouver, maybe slightly better than expected.
Fifteen: Tampa Bay (6th Atlantic)
The Lightning have all the pieces when healthy. Steven Stamkos C - on pace for 33 goals - is producing but not as much as he has in the past. If he gets on a hot streak and Tampa stays steady until the injuries heal, the Lightning might find themselves in the finals again. It's a BIG if, though. Tampa Bay has yet to play like they did last season. Victor Hedman D and Anton Stralman D are playing solid hockey. Nikita Kucherov RW is contributing well offensively.
Record: 17 - 14 - 3 37pts ( projected: 20 - 15 - 4 44pts)
Significant Injuries:
Ondrej Palat LWBrian Boyle C
J.T. Brown RW
Tyler Johnson C
Matt Carle D
These are all guys that put in respectable minutes and add good depth and provide goals.
Next Fifteen Days 12/21/2015 - 1/4/2015:
Tuesday Vancouver visits
Saturday Columbus visits
Monday Montreal visits
Wednesday New York Rangers visit
Saturday Minnesota visits
Fifteen days to stay at home - Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. Tampa Bay can certainly make a statement in this fifteen by running the board. No scary games here.
LOSS 1 -3 at Los Angeles
WIN 4 - 1 Ottawa
LOSS 2 -1 Washington
WIN 2 -1 at Columbus
WIN 5 - 4 (OT) at Toronto
LOSS 3 - 5 at Washington
WIN 5 -2 Ottawa
Record: 17 - 14 - 3 37pts ( projected: 20 - 15 - 4 44pts)
Significant Injuries:
Ondrej Palat LWBrian Boyle C
J.T. Brown RW
Tyler Johnson C
Matt Carle D
These are all guys that put in respectable minutes and add good depth and provide goals.
Next Fifteen Days 12/21/2015 - 1/4/2015:
Tuesday Vancouver visits
Saturday Columbus visits
Monday Montreal visits
Wednesday New York Rangers visit
Saturday Minnesota visits
Fifteen days to stay at home - Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. Tampa Bay can certainly make a statement in this fifteen by running the board. No scary games here.
7 out of 10pts
3 - 1 - 1
Last Fifteen Days 12/6/2015 - 12/20/2015:LOSS 1 -3 at Los Angeles
WIN 4 - 1 Ottawa
LOSS 2 -1 Washington
WIN 2 -1 at Columbus
WIN 5 - 4 (OT) at Toronto
LOSS 3 - 5 at Washington
WIN 5 -2 Ottawa
4 - 3 - 0
8 out of 14pts
The three losses are to top-tier teams playing solid hockey. So this week has no surprises for a team that should make the playoffs. Well, it is surprising this team is winning consistently with so many injuries.
Fifteen: Pittsburgh (6th Metropolitan)
Pittsburgh has the top-tier players. They are thin on defense, I suppose, and that does cause problems. So far new coach Mike Sullivan hasn't provided an answer. Sidney Crosby C should rebound and have a sensational second half of the season - hope says this anyway. Ultimately, the forwards have to focus on their own end. There is time for this team to get it together and still make the playoffs.
Record: 15 - 14 - 3 33pts ( projected: 17 - 16 - 5 39pts)
Significant Injuries:
Kris Letang DSidney Crosby C (he returned Friday)
These are core players for the Pens. Any time missed is likely to cost them points in the standings. However, recent slumping is much bigger than these injuries.
Next Fifteen Days 12/21/2015 - 1/4/2015:
Monday Columbus visits
Saturday at Minnesota
Sunday at Winnipeg
Wednesday Toronto visits
Thursday at Detroit
Saturday New York Islanders visit
Pittsburgh needs this fifteen to be great and it very well could be. The only games they should lose here would be against Detroit and the Isles - and then, really, they need points in those two. All six teams believe they can frustrate the Pens and "steal" points from them.
LOSS 1 - 2 at Anaheim
WIN 4 - 2 at Colorado
LOSS 2 - 3 (OT) Los Angeles
LOSS 1 - 4 Washington
LOSS 0 - 3 at Boston
LOSS 2 - 6 Boston
LOSS 1 - 2 Carolina
Record: 15 - 14 - 3 33pts ( projected: 17 - 16 - 5 39pts)
Significant Injuries:
Kris Letang DSidney Crosby C (he returned Friday)
These are core players for the Pens. Any time missed is likely to cost them points in the standings. However, recent slumping is much bigger than these injuries.
Next Fifteen Days 12/21/2015 - 1/4/2015:
Monday Columbus visits
Saturday at Minnesota
Sunday at Winnipeg
Wednesday Toronto visits
Thursday at Detroit
Saturday New York Islanders visit
Pittsburgh needs this fifteen to be great and it very well could be. The only games they should lose here would be against Detroit and the Isles - and then, really, they need points in those two. All six teams believe they can frustrate the Pens and "steal" points from them.
6 out of 12pts
2 - 2 - 2
Last Fifteen Days 12/6/2015 - 12/20/2015:LOSS 1 - 2 at Anaheim
WIN 4 - 2 at Colorado
LOSS 2 - 3 (OT) Los Angeles
LOSS 1 - 4 Washington
LOSS 0 - 3 at Boston
LOSS 2 - 6 Boston
LOSS 1 - 2 Carolina
1 - 5 - 1
3 out of 14pts
A terrible fifteen days for Pittsburgh and their fans. This is a solid group of teams but the way the Pens have lost is what makes this fifteen extra terrible. Well, and losing to Carolina and Anaheim should not happen.
Fifteen: Nashville (5th Central)
Nashville has been up and down all season. Is it a style thing? Is it an effort thing? Is it a match-up thing? I'm not sure and I don't think they are either. James Neal LW and Filip Forsberg C are getting it done decently - maybe a little more production out of them? But really the forward depth drops off fast after those two. Coach Peter Laviolette has his work cut out in order to get this team in the playoffs.
Record: 16 - 11 - 6 38pts ( projected: 18 - 14 - 7 43pts)
Significant Injuries:
Mike Fisher C
He puts in quality minutes for the Predators. Definitely a positive addition when he comes back.
Next Fifteen Days 12/21/2015 - 1/4/2015:
Monday Montreal visits
Saturday Detroit visits
Monday New York Rangers visit
Tuesday at St. Louis
Thursday at Dallas
Saturday at Carolina
There really isn't anything easy in this fifteen. However, the way the Rangers and Canadiens are playing, Nashville needs wins against them. Carolina should be a win as well.
Last Fifteen Days 12/6/2015 - 12/20/2015:
WIN 3 - 2 at Boston
LOSS 1 - 4 at Chicago
WIN 5 - 1 Chicago
LOSS 2 - 3 Colorado
LOSS 1 - 2 (OT) Calgary
LOSS 1 - 2 at St. Louis
WIN 3 - 2 Minnesota
Record: 16 - 11 - 6 38pts ( projected: 18 - 14 - 7 43pts)
Significant Injuries:
Mike Fisher C
He puts in quality minutes for the Predators. Definitely a positive addition when he comes back.
Next Fifteen Days 12/21/2015 - 1/4/2015:
Monday Montreal visits
Saturday Detroit visits
Monday New York Rangers visit
Tuesday at St. Louis
Thursday at Dallas
Saturday at Carolina
There really isn't anything easy in this fifteen. However, the way the Rangers and Canadiens are playing, Nashville needs wins against them. Carolina should be a win as well.
5 out of 12pts
2 - 3 - 1
Last Fifteen Days 12/6/2015 - 12/20/2015:
WIN 3 - 2 at Boston
LOSS 1 - 4 at Chicago
WIN 5 - 1 Chicago
LOSS 2 - 3 Colorado
LOSS 1 - 2 (OT) Calgary
LOSS 1 - 2 at St. Louis
WIN 3 - 2 Minnesota
3 - 3 - 1
7 out of 14pts
This is Nashville playing a bit below expectations. Considering that Colorado and Calgary are playing in a zone right now, this could have been a 2 or 3 point fifteen days. Good wins at Boston and home to Chicago and Minnesota save the Preds from falling farther.
20 December 2015
Fifteen: New York Rangers (2nd Metropolitan)
The Rangers are struggling. Offense has been a small problem, but when the defense struggles the offense is a HUGE problem. Injuries are certainly hurting the team. This fifteen is a great chance to get some momentum back. The top players are fine - Mats Zuccarello RW is still bringing it every night. Support scoring is not coming. Also, the middle in the Rangers' end is being left open a lot more. It's been a tough stretch of late!
Record: 19 - 11 - 4 42pts ( projected: 21 - 13 - 5 47pts )
Significant Injuries:
Kevin Klein D
Dan Girardi D
Derek Stepan C
These are big minute injuries. Hopefully, it is a huge factor in the losses lately.
Next Fifteen Days 12/20/2015 - 1/3/2016:
Sunday Washington visits
Tuesday Anaheim visits
Monday at Nashville
Wednesday at Tampa Bay
Saturday at Florida
Time to right the sinking vessel! Other than Washington, this is another weaker fifteens days on the schedule.
Last Fifteen Days 12/5/2015 - 12/19/2015:
WIN 4 - 1 Ottawa
LOSS 1 - 2 at Vancouver
LOSS 5 - 7 at Edmonton
LOSS 4 - 5 (OT) at Calgary
WIN 4 - 2 Edmonton
LOSS 2 - 5 at Minnesota
LOSS 2 - 5 at Winnipeg
As bad a fifteen days as any team could have. This was not a tough part of the schedule for the Rangers.
Record: 19 - 11 - 4 42pts ( projected: 21 - 13 - 5 47pts )
Significant Injuries:
Kevin Klein D
Dan Girardi D
Derek Stepan C
These are big minute injuries. Hopefully, it is a huge factor in the losses lately.
Next Fifteen Days 12/20/2015 - 1/3/2016:
Sunday Washington visits
Tuesday Anaheim visits
Monday at Nashville
Wednesday at Tampa Bay
Saturday at Florida
Time to right the sinking vessel! Other than Washington, this is another weaker fifteens days on the schedule.
5 out of 10pts
2 - 2 - 1
Last Fifteen Days 12/5/2015 - 12/19/2015:
WIN 4 - 1 Ottawa
LOSS 1 - 2 at Vancouver
LOSS 5 - 7 at Edmonton
LOSS 4 - 5 (OT) at Calgary
WIN 4 - 2 Edmonton
LOSS 2 - 5 at Minnesota
LOSS 2 - 5 at Winnipeg
2 - 4 - 1
5 out of 14pts
As bad a fifteen days as any team could have. This was not a tough part of the schedule for the Rangers.
Fifteen: St Louis (2nd Central)
St. Louis is well coached by Ken Hitchcock. He always puts a solid team on the ice - defense first with good control in their offense zone in spurts. Vladimir Tarasenko RW is soaring again this season. Alexander Steen LW isn't mentioned enough - he is a top-tier forward as well. I have trouble with both goalies. This is one team that truly could make a step with a better goalie.
Record: 20 - 10 - 4 44pts ( projected: 24 - 13 - 4 42pts)
Significant Injuries:
No current injuries.
Next Fifteen Days 12/20/2015 - 1/3/2016:
Monday at Philadelphia
Tuesday at Boston
Saturday Dallas
Sunday at Dallas
Tuesday Nashville
Thursday Minnesota
Saturday at Toronto
Some big games in this fifteen. Home and home versus Dallas will be pivotal - steal points here and St. Louis stays in the mix, win both and they make a statement. Of course, this means they win a few others.
Last Fifteen Days 12/5/2015 - 12/19/2015:
LOSS 1 - 4 Toronto
WIN 4 - 1 Arizona
LOSS 2 - 4 Philadelphia
WIN 3 - 0 Dallas
LOSS 1 - 3 Colorado
WIN 4 -3 at Winnipeg
WIN 2 -1 Nashville
WIN 3 -2 Calgary
If they don't steal one against a hot Calgary team to end the fifteen days, they are just a 500 team. Counter that with a good win against Dallas.
Record: 20 - 10 - 4 44pts ( projected: 24 - 13 - 4 42pts)
Significant Injuries:
No current injuries.
Next Fifteen Days 12/20/2015 - 1/3/2016:
Monday at Philadelphia
Tuesday at Boston
Saturday Dallas
Sunday at Dallas
Tuesday Nashville
Thursday Minnesota
Saturday at Toronto
Some big games in this fifteen. Home and home versus Dallas will be pivotal - steal points here and St. Louis stays in the mix, win both and they make a statement. Of course, this means they win a few others.
8 out of 14pts
4 - 3 - 0
Last Fifteen Days 12/5/2015 - 12/19/2015:
LOSS 1 - 4 Toronto
WIN 4 - 1 Arizona
LOSS 2 - 4 Philadelphia
WIN 3 - 0 Dallas
LOSS 1 - 3 Colorado
WIN 4 -3 at Winnipeg
WIN 2 -1 Nashville
WIN 3 -2 Calgary
5 - 3 - 0
10 out of 16pts
If they don't steal one against a hot Calgary team to end the fifteen days, they are just a 500 team. Counter that with a good win against Dallas.
Fifteen: Boston (2nd Atlantic)
The Bruins continue to surprise me. The core of Patrice Bergeron C, David Krejci C and Zdeno Chara D is proving how great they are and how integral they were to the successes of this franchise. Loui Eriksson LW and Brad Marchand LW (who I despise) are the right complements to this core. When all are clicking this team is difficult to score against and able to generate timely goals to steal wins.
Record: 18 - 9 - 4 40pts ( projected: 22 - 10 - 5 49pts)
Significant Injuries:
Chris Kelly C Out a while with a broken femur.
Certainly a depth player but he doesn't seem to be missed much.
Next Fifteen Days 12/20/2015 - 1/3/2016:
Sunday New Jersey visits
Tuesday St. Louis visits
Saturday Buffalo visits
Sunday at Ottawa
Tuesday Ottawa visits
Friday Montreal visits
Can they put together another streak in this fifteen days? I think so.
Last Fifteen Days 12/5/2015 - 12/19/2015:
WIN 4 - 0 at Vancouver
LOSS 2 - 3 Nashville
WIN 3 - 1 at Montreal
WIN 3 - 1 Florida
LOSS 2 - 3 (OT) Edmonton
WIN 3 - 0 Pittsburgh
WIN 6 - 2 at Pittsburgh
Another good fifteen days for this surprise of the season. A floundering Penguins team helps.
Record: 18 - 9 - 4 40pts ( projected: 22 - 10 - 5 49pts)
Significant Injuries:
Chris Kelly C Out a while with a broken femur.
Certainly a depth player but he doesn't seem to be missed much.
Next Fifteen Days 12/20/2015 - 1/3/2016:
Sunday New Jersey visits
Tuesday St. Louis visits
Saturday Buffalo visits
Sunday at Ottawa
Tuesday Ottawa visits
Friday Montreal visits
Can they put together another streak in this fifteen days? I think so.
9 out of 12pts
4 - 1 - 1
Last Fifteen Days 12/5/2015 - 12/19/2015:
WIN 4 - 0 at Vancouver
LOSS 2 - 3 Nashville
WIN 3 - 1 at Montreal
WIN 3 - 1 Florida
LOSS 2 - 3 (OT) Edmonton
WIN 3 - 0 Pittsburgh
WIN 6 - 2 at Pittsburgh
5 - 1 - 1
11 out of 14pts
Another good fifteen days for this surprise of the season. A floundering Penguins team helps.
Fifteen: San Jose (2nd Pacific)
San Jose is a frustrating team for their fans. There is talent there - like top-tier talent. So expectations have been high for a long time. But there is always something missing - a toughness and a solid shutdown defensive system. New coach Peter DeBoer hasn't produced any different results. Logan Couture C is missed - his toughness adds a lot to this team.
Record: 16 - 15 - 1 33pts ( projected: 18 - 18 - 1 37pts)
Significant Injuries:
Ben Smith RW
This is a long-standing injury and at this point not overly impactful. Ben Smith RW is a good depth player.
Next Fifteen Days 12/20/2015 - 1/3/2016:
Sunday at Chicago
Tuesday at Los Angeles
Monday Colorado visits
Wednesday Philadelphia visits
Saturday Winnipeg visits
Some hot and really good teams in this fifteen. San Jose has to get wins against Philly and the Jets. Even then they need to pull points out Chicago and Los Angeles - no easy task.
Last Fifteen Days 12/5/2015 - 12/19/2015:
LOSS 3 - 4 Tampa Bay
LOSS 2 - 4 at Calgary
LOSS 3 - 4 (OT) at Edmonton
LOSS 0 - 2 Minnesota
WIN 3 - 1 at Montreal
WIN 5 - 4 (OT) at Toronto
LOSS 2 - 4 at Ottawa
A typical fifteens days for this kind of team - they get beaten by hot middle tier teams and will beat cold upper tier teams. If Calgary, Edmonton, and even Ottawa had been cooled down, San Jose grabs 5 or 6 points and this is a great fifteen days.
Record: 16 - 15 - 1 33pts ( projected: 18 - 18 - 1 37pts)
Significant Injuries:
Ben Smith RW
This is a long-standing injury and at this point not overly impactful. Ben Smith RW is a good depth player.
Next Fifteen Days 12/20/2015 - 1/3/2016:
Sunday at Chicago
Tuesday at Los Angeles
Monday Colorado visits
Wednesday Philadelphia visits
Saturday Winnipeg visits
Some hot and really good teams in this fifteen. San Jose has to get wins against Philly and the Jets. Even then they need to pull points out Chicago and Los Angeles - no easy task.
4 out of 10pts
2 - 3 - 0
Last Fifteen Days 12/5/2015 - 12/19/2015:
LOSS 3 - 4 Tampa Bay
LOSS 2 - 4 at Calgary
LOSS 3 - 4 (OT) at Edmonton
LOSS 0 - 2 Minnesota
WIN 3 - 1 at Montreal
WIN 5 - 4 (OT) at Toronto
LOSS 2 - 4 at Ottawa
2 - 4 - 1
5 out of 14pts
A typical fifteens days for this kind of team - they get beaten by hot middle tier teams and will beat cold upper tier teams. If Calgary, Edmonton, and even Ottawa had been cooled down, San Jose grabs 5 or 6 points and this is a great fifteen days.
Fifteen: Buffalo (7th Atlantic)
Buffalo has so much to build forward with here. They are a young group of forwards with a thrown together group of aged defensemen. Coach Dan Bylsma has his work cut out but everyone knows this is simply a building for the future year. Jack Eichel C has cooled down but it is easy to see he will be a great player. Ryan O'Reilly C is playing great hockey and becoming a true leader for the Sabres.
Record: 14 - 16 - 4 32pts ( projected: 15 - 19 - 5 35pts)
Significant Injuries:
Tyler Ennis LW
Seems he is a day-to-day injury - he puts in good depth minutes.
Next Fifteen Days 12/20/2015 - 1/3/2016:
Saturday at Boston
Monday Washington visits
Wednesday at Washington
Thursday New York Islanders visit
Saturday Detroit visits
There is nothing easy in this fifteen days except maybe some extra days off. Buffalo has played the good teams well, it seems, right?
Last Fifteen Days 12/5/2015 - 12/19/2015:
LOSS 2 - 4 at Edmonton
LOSS 2 - 5 at Vancouver
LOSS 3 - 4 at Calgary
WIN 2 - 1 (OT) Los Angeles
WIN 2 - 1 at Detroit
LOSS 0 - 2 New Jersey
WIN 3 - 0 Anaheim
LOSS 2 - 3 (SO) Chicago
Some respectable wins in this fifteen days. Buffalo is growing. They shouldn't be expected to be a lot better than Edmonton of the last couple of years.
Record: 14 - 16 - 4 32pts ( projected: 15 - 19 - 5 35pts)
Significant Injuries:
Tyler Ennis LW
Seems he is a day-to-day injury - he puts in good depth minutes.
Next Fifteen Days 12/20/2015 - 1/3/2016:
Saturday at Boston
Monday Washington visits
Wednesday at Washington
Thursday New York Islanders visit
Saturday Detroit visits
There is nothing easy in this fifteen days except maybe some extra days off. Buffalo has played the good teams well, it seems, right?
3 out of 10pts
1 - 3 - 1
Last Fifteen Days 12/5/2015 - 12/19/2015:
LOSS 2 - 4 at Edmonton
LOSS 2 - 5 at Vancouver
LOSS 3 - 4 at Calgary
WIN 2 - 1 (OT) Los Angeles
WIN 2 - 1 at Detroit
LOSS 0 - 2 New Jersey
WIN 3 - 0 Anaheim
LOSS 2 - 3 (SO) Chicago
3 - 4 - 1
7 out of 16pts
Some respectable wins in this fifteen days. Buffalo is growing. They shouldn't be expected to be a lot better than Edmonton of the last couple of years.
Fifteen: Edmonton (6th Pacific)
Edmonton needs to watch tapes of the Chicago Blackhawks. They have the centers to play a very similar style and maybe a guy like Darnell Nurse D can evolve into a Duncan Keith type. As of now they are more like those Penguins teams that don't win the cup. This team is fun because they have so many early picks on their roster that are starting to raise their games. Leon Draisaitl C is pushing play and working well with Taylor Hall LW.
Record: 14 - 18 - 2 30pts ( projected: 16 - 21 - 3 35pts)
Significant Injuries:
Connor McDavid C (been out a while)
Oscar Klefbom D
Benoit Pouliot LW
These are all guys that put in respectable minutes. McDavid would be an obvious boost to offense.
Next Fifteen Days 12/20/2015 - 1/3/2015:
Monday Winnipeg visits
Saturday at Vancouver
Sunday at Calgary
Tuesday Los Angeles visits
Thursday Anaheim visits
Saturday Arizona visits
Edmonton needs to slow down the offensive push and get solid in their own end. Anaheim and Arizona have to be wins. Three points out of Vancouver and Winnipeg bodes well.
Last Fifteen Days 12/5/2015 - 12/19/2015:
WIN 4 - 2 Buffalo
WIN 4 - 3 (OT) San Jose
WIN 7 - 5 New York Rangers
WIN 3 - 2 (OT) Boston
LOSS 2 - 4 at New York Rangers
LOSS 0 - 4 at Chicago
LOSS 1 - 5 at Colorado
The solid start to this fifteen days gets balanced by those late losses. Streaky team here. But really Edmonton has yet to find that tough defensive play that separates fun teams from GREAT teams.
Record: 14 - 18 - 2 30pts ( projected: 16 - 21 - 3 35pts)
Significant Injuries:
Connor McDavid C (been out a while)
Oscar Klefbom D
Benoit Pouliot LW
These are all guys that put in respectable minutes. McDavid would be an obvious boost to offense.
Next Fifteen Days 12/20/2015 - 1/3/2015:
Monday Winnipeg visits
Saturday at Vancouver
Sunday at Calgary
Tuesday Los Angeles visits
Thursday Anaheim visits
Saturday Arizona visits
Edmonton needs to slow down the offensive push and get solid in their own end. Anaheim and Arizona have to be wins. Three points out of Vancouver and Winnipeg bodes well.
5 out of 12pts
2 - 3 - 1
Last Fifteen Days 12/5/2015 - 12/19/2015:
WIN 4 - 2 Buffalo
WIN 4 - 3 (OT) San Jose
WIN 7 - 5 New York Rangers
WIN 3 - 2 (OT) Boston
LOSS 2 - 4 at New York Rangers
LOSS 0 - 4 at Chicago
LOSS 1 - 5 at Colorado
4 - 3 - 0
8 out of 14pts
The solid start to this fifteen days gets balanced by those late losses. Streaky team here. But really Edmonton has yet to find that tough defensive play that separates fun teams from GREAT teams.
16 December 2015
Fifteen: Winnipeg (7th Central)
Winnipeg needs another good defenseman or Anze Kopitar C from the Kings. There are a lot of second tier players here. Dustin Byfuglien D can be dominant in his own end and his shot is killer. I don't know that another coach will get more out of these guys but Paul Maurice has been there long enough. Let someone else try :)
Record: 14 - 15 - 2 30pts ( projected: 14 - 18 - 4 32pts)
Significant Injuries:
No current injuries.
Next Fifteen Days 12/16/2015 - 12/30/2015:
Friday New York Rangers visit
Monday at Edmonton
Tuesday are Calgary
Sunday Pittsburgh visits
Tuesday Detroit visits
Here's a chance for Winnipeg to make a run...or not. Some of these teams are kinda hot, the others have been really good. Pittsburgh is a question mark despite having all-world talent.
Last Fifteen Days 12/1/2015 - 12/15/2015:
WIN 6 - 1 Toronto
WIN 2 - 1 (OT) Washington
LOSS 1 - 3 at Chicago
WIN 6 - 4 Columbus
LOSS 0 - 2 at Chicago
LOSS 3 - 4 St. Louis
That solid start gets balanced by those late losses. The St Louis loss really hurts - blowing a 3 - 1 lead and getting no points from it. Realistically, the Jets are where they are. It is what it is...
Record: 14 - 15 - 2 30pts ( projected: 14 - 18 - 4 32pts)
Significant Injuries:
No current injuries.
Next Fifteen Days 12/16/2015 - 12/30/2015:
Friday New York Rangers visit
Monday at Edmonton
Tuesday are Calgary
Sunday Pittsburgh visits
Tuesday Detroit visits
Here's a chance for Winnipeg to make a run...or not. Some of these teams are kinda hot, the others have been really good. Pittsburgh is a question mark despite having all-world talent.
2 out of 10pts
0 - 3 - 2
Last Fifteen Days 12/1/2015 - 12/15/2015:
WIN 6 - 1 Toronto
WIN 2 - 1 (OT) Washington
LOSS 1 - 3 at Chicago
WIN 6 - 4 Columbus
LOSS 0 - 2 at Chicago
LOSS 3 - 4 St. Louis
3 - 0 - 3
6 out of 12pts
That solid start gets balanced by those late losses. The St Louis loss really hurts - blowing a 3 - 1 lead and getting no points from it. Realistically, the Jets are where they are. It is what it is...
Fifteen: Carolina (7th Metropolitan)
The Canes have some really good talent. And anytime a team has defenseman like Justin Faulk D it will have a chance every night. Faulk plays that way. Both ends of the ice he is contributing. Add in a guy like Jeff Skinner LW getting hot and this team can make strides. If the Jordan Staal C and Eric Staal C start clicking, this team can be scary to meet in the playoffs. This next fifteen days will tell a lot.
Record: 12 - 14 - 5 29pts ( projected: 13 - 17 - 7 33pts)
Significant Injuries:
Nathan Gerbe LW
James Wisniewski D
These are good players and would definitely add good depth. They aren't the solution to this team's woes, however, the added depth would help if the Canes got on a run.
Next Fifteen Days 12/16/2015 - 12/30/2015:
Friday Florida visits
Saturday at Pittsburgh
Monday Washington visits
Saturday New Jersey visits
Sunday at Chicago
Tuesday at New Jersey
This is quite a difficult fifteen days. Wow. No cold teams here. If the Canes win most of these, I will consider it a "statement" fifteen.
Last Fifteen Days 12/1/2015 - 12/15/2015:
LOSS 1 - 5 New Jersey
WIN 3 - 2 Montreal
WIN 5 - 4 Arizona
LOSS 5 - 6 at Dallas
WIN 5 - 1 at Anaheim
WIN 5 - 4 (OT) at Arizona
LOSS 3 - 4 (OT) at Philadelphia
Strange team play here. No real momentum in a direction except for a lot of offense for their opponents. If they can turn this into a regular outcome of every fifteen days, they could squeeze into the playoffs, maybe?
Record: 12 - 14 - 5 29pts ( projected: 13 - 17 - 7 33pts)
Significant Injuries:
Nathan Gerbe LW
James Wisniewski D
These are good players and would definitely add good depth. They aren't the solution to this team's woes, however, the added depth would help if the Canes got on a run.
Next Fifteen Days 12/16/2015 - 12/30/2015:
Friday Florida visits
Saturday at Pittsburgh
Monday Washington visits
Saturday New Jersey visits
Sunday at Chicago
Tuesday at New Jersey
This is quite a difficult fifteen days. Wow. No cold teams here. If the Canes win most of these, I will consider it a "statement" fifteen.
4 out of 12pts
1 - 3 - 2
Last Fifteen Days 12/1/2015 - 12/15/2015:
LOSS 1 - 5 New Jersey
WIN 3 - 2 Montreal
WIN 5 - 4 Arizona
LOSS 5 - 6 at Dallas
WIN 5 - 1 at Anaheim
WIN 5 - 4 (OT) at Arizona
LOSS 3 - 4 (OT) at Philadelphia
4 - 1 - 2
10 out of 14pts
Strange team play here. No real momentum in a direction except for a lot of offense for their opponents. If they can turn this into a regular outcome of every fifteen days, they could squeeze into the playoffs, maybe?
15 December 2015
A lot of games on tonight
Let's see which ones are the ones to watch.
Edmonton is riding a six-game win streak into MSG for a 7pm faceoff. The Rangers are kinda going the other direction, just 2 - 6 - 2 in their last ten. Kevin Klein D is certainly being missed by the Rangers. Meanwhile, for the Oil, everything is clicking. Edmonton gets a seventh.
Calgary is visiting Nashville on a five-game win streak. This Bob Hartley system is fast-flying and pretty fun to watch. If Johnny Gaudreau LW and company can capitalize on their opportunities, they will be just another Canadian team with a 6-game win streak this season. Nashville is like Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde. When the doctor's in, they win pretty easily. However, they don't seem able to hide the monster bad games. The Flames claim a sixth win in a row.
Chicago hosts Colorado tonight. Colorado is trying to get back in the playoff hunt after a dismal start to the season. They are playing better for coach Patrick Roy. Chicago is coming off of two shutouts and despite some up-and-down play prior to that, they should have no trouble in this one. Oh yeah, Patrick Kane RW has a little point scoring streak to watch for...26 games in a row with a point. Chicago gets this one.
The John Tortorella experiment continues tonight as Columbus jumps on Dallas Stars' ice. This could...will...er...could be their fifth loss in a row. Dallas is very fun to watch. Their top two lines are potent and even when they seem out of a game, they aren't. Dallas by a field goal!
Edmonton is riding a six-game win streak into MSG for a 7pm faceoff. The Rangers are kinda going the other direction, just 2 - 6 - 2 in their last ten. Kevin Klein D is certainly being missed by the Rangers. Meanwhile, for the Oil, everything is clicking. Edmonton gets a seventh.
Calgary is visiting Nashville on a five-game win streak. This Bob Hartley system is fast-flying and pretty fun to watch. If Johnny Gaudreau LW and company can capitalize on their opportunities, they will be just another Canadian team with a 6-game win streak this season. Nashville is like Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde. When the doctor's in, they win pretty easily. However, they don't seem able to hide the monster bad games. The Flames claim a sixth win in a row.
Chicago hosts Colorado tonight. Colorado is trying to get back in the playoff hunt after a dismal start to the season. They are playing better for coach Patrick Roy. Chicago is coming off of two shutouts and despite some up-and-down play prior to that, they should have no trouble in this one. Oh yeah, Patrick Kane RW has a little point scoring streak to watch for...26 games in a row with a point. Chicago gets this one.
The John Tortorella experiment continues tonight as Columbus jumps on Dallas Stars' ice. This could...will...er...could be their fifth loss in a row. Dallas is very fun to watch. Their top two lines are potent and even when they seem out of a game, they aren't. Dallas by a field goal!
Fifteen: New York Islanders (2nd Metropolitan)
The Islanders are trying to be an elite team. They are much more mature as is their leader John Tavares C. Kyle Okposo RW is playing very good hockey. He's always been a playmaker that that can finish and he has not disappointed this season. This group may, however, be one defensive forward or one solid d-man away. This next fifteen days is difficult only because anything less than 11 points seems like a letdown.
Record: 18 - 8 - 5 41pts ( projected: 23 - 8 - 6 52pts)
Significant Injuries:
Ryan Strome C
Ryan Strome is a good young player - with him, the Isles become a little tougher to defend.
Next Fifteen Days 12/15/2015 - 12/29/2015:
Tuesday Florida visits
Thursday at Colorado
Saturday at Arizona
Monday Anaheim visits
Sunday Toronto visits
Tuesday at Toronto
The Islanders still have more to prove. If they rake through this fifteen with solid wins, as they should, they will certainly set themselves apart from the Islander teams over the past few years.
Last Fifteen Days 11/30/2015 - 12/14/2015:
WIN 5 - 3 Colorado
WIN 2 - 1 (SO) New York Rangers
WIN 2 - 1 (SO) St. Louis
LOSS 2 -3 (OT) Ottawa
WIN 4 - 3 (SO) at Philadelphia
WIN 3 -2 (OT) at Columbus
WIN 4 - 0 New Jersey
This might look a lot better than it is. Five of the seven went to extra time. Don't get me wrong, I believe the Isles are an upper echelon team and their team defense is playing tough. But this team has shown me that they can blow leads - that is not good for the playoffs. So even though this was an almost perfect fifteen days, I still have to see how they handle the next fifteen.
Record: 18 - 8 - 5 41pts ( projected: 23 - 8 - 6 52pts)
Significant Injuries:
Ryan Strome C
Ryan Strome is a good young player - with him, the Isles become a little tougher to defend.
Next Fifteen Days 12/15/2015 - 12/29/2015:
Tuesday Florida visits
Thursday at Colorado
Saturday at Arizona
Monday Anaheim visits
Sunday Toronto visits
Tuesday at Toronto
The Islanders still have more to prove. If they rake through this fifteen with solid wins, as they should, they will certainly set themselves apart from the Islander teams over the past few years.
11 out of 12pts
5 - 0 - 1
Last Fifteen Days 11/30/2015 - 12/14/2015:
WIN 5 - 3 Colorado
WIN 2 - 1 (SO) New York Rangers
WIN 2 - 1 (SO) St. Louis
LOSS 2 -3 (OT) Ottawa
WIN 4 - 3 (SO) at Philadelphia
WIN 3 -2 (OT) at Columbus
WIN 4 - 0 New Jersey
6 - 0 - 1
13 out of 14pts
This might look a lot better than it is. Five of the seven went to extra time. Don't get me wrong, I believe the Isles are an upper echelon team and their team defense is playing tough. But this team has shown me that they can blow leads - that is not good for the playoffs. So even though this was an almost perfect fifteen days, I still have to see how they handle the next fifteen.
Fifteen: Chicago (2nd Central)
Chicago still goes up and down, all the while staying in the upper half of the playoff contenders. Patrick Kane's scoring streak doesn't hurt. Ultimately, when the core plays solid 5 on 5 hacky few teams can finish chances with any surety.
Record: 17 - 10 - 4 38pts ( projected: 21 - 11 - 5 38pts)
Significant Injuries:
No current injuries.
Next Fifteen Days 12/15/2015 - 12/29/2015:
Tuesday Colorado visits
Thursday Edmonton visits
Saturday at Buffalo
Sunday San Jose visits
Tuesday at Dallas
Sunday Carolina visits
Tuesday at Arizona
Chicago has a chance to put pressure on Dallas for first if they play these next fifteen well. A win at Dallas will be huge. But more important to not lose the others. Edmonton may still be flying high when they visit. If Chicago doesn't take them lightly, it could be the Oil's first lost in a while.
Last Fifteen Days 11/30/2015 - 12/14/2015:
LOSS 1 - 2 Minnesota
LOSS 3 - 4 (OT) at Ottawa
WIN 3 - 1 Winnipeg
WIN 4 - 1 Nashville
LOSS 1 - 4 at Nashville
WIN 2 - 0 Winnipeg
WIN 4 - 0 Vancouver
Even on a bad fifteen this team doesn't leave many points on the table. Losing a tight one to a hot Ottawa team is understandable. They put up some very good efforts in the last few days.
Record: 17 - 10 - 4 38pts ( projected: 21 - 11 - 5 38pts)
Significant Injuries:
No current injuries.
Next Fifteen Days 12/15/2015 - 12/29/2015:
Tuesday Colorado visits
Thursday Edmonton visits
Saturday at Buffalo
Sunday San Jose visits
Tuesday at Dallas
Sunday Carolina visits
Tuesday at Arizona
Chicago has a chance to put pressure on Dallas for first if they play these next fifteen well. A win at Dallas will be huge. But more important to not lose the others. Edmonton may still be flying high when they visit. If Chicago doesn't take them lightly, it could be the Oil's first lost in a while.
9 out of 12pts
4 - 1 - 1
Last Fifteen Days 11/30/2015 - 12/14/2015:
LOSS 1 - 2 Minnesota
LOSS 3 - 4 (OT) at Ottawa
WIN 3 - 1 Winnipeg
WIN 4 - 1 Nashville
LOSS 1 - 4 at Nashville
WIN 2 - 0 Winnipeg
WIN 4 - 0 Vancouver
4 - 1 - 2
10 out of 14pts
Even on a bad fifteen this team doesn't leave many points on the table. Losing a tight one to a hot Ottawa team is understandable. They put up some very good efforts in the last few days.
Perspectives: The beginning of The End of Dominance for Montreal
Here's a good article on how mismanagement can kill a franchise. And at the time, no franchise in all of sports sat as high as the Montreal Canadiens.
When it fell apart, it fell a long, long way.
I have some things to say about all that though:
1) Mark Recchi for Eric Desjardins and John Leclair wasn't as bad as it seems. Leclair did nothing apart from Eric Lindros to compare with how he played with Eric Lindros. He was big and could finish. Mark Recchi might have been in the low 120s during those same seasons with Lindros. Eric Desjardins was the true loss there. Very solid d-man for the Flyers. Not replaced on that Habs team until maybe now.
2) Patrick Roy crumbled that season with Montreal. He was often shell-shocked and out-of-place. His aggressive style and Montreal's lack of depth in a poorly executed system left him looking no better that Jocelyn Thibault, really. Roy went on to a powerhouse team in the making. Roy was able to play loosely and aggressively there. Them winning two cups might have been two fewer than Domick Hasek could have won there. Roy played on ONE bad team - it was that Canadien team of between the 95 and 96 seasons - and Roy looked adequate at best.
3) Losing Desjardins and then Muller and Schneider after already losing your captain Guy Carbonneau is what killed this team. Those guys weren't replaced, even closely. Turgeon could score, Recchi could score, Malakhov was nut-case. No leadership and no solid defensemen makes for a pretty bad goalie experience. And Patrick Roy was the first indicator, not reason, of their demise.
When it fell apart, it fell a long, long way.
I have some things to say about all that though:
1) Mark Recchi for Eric Desjardins and John Leclair wasn't as bad as it seems. Leclair did nothing apart from Eric Lindros to compare with how he played with Eric Lindros. He was big and could finish. Mark Recchi might have been in the low 120s during those same seasons with Lindros. Eric Desjardins was the true loss there. Very solid d-man for the Flyers. Not replaced on that Habs team until maybe now.
2) Patrick Roy crumbled that season with Montreal. He was often shell-shocked and out-of-place. His aggressive style and Montreal's lack of depth in a poorly executed system left him looking no better that Jocelyn Thibault, really. Roy went on to a powerhouse team in the making. Roy was able to play loosely and aggressively there. Them winning two cups might have been two fewer than Domick Hasek could have won there. Roy played on ONE bad team - it was that Canadien team of between the 95 and 96 seasons - and Roy looked adequate at best.
3) Losing Desjardins and then Muller and Schneider after already losing your captain Guy Carbonneau is what killed this team. Those guys weren't replaced, even closely. Turgeon could score, Recchi could score, Malakhov was nut-case. No leadership and no solid defensemen makes for a pretty bad goalie experience. And Patrick Roy was the first indicator, not reason, of their demise.
Off-ice: Here's one for the biker in you...
With furniture like this - biker rigs may never have to come off.
Perspectives: Kane meet Wayne
Patrick Kane is certainly tearing it up right now. He is on a 26 game points streak. No one should be surprised, he has all the tools - Hands, hockey-sense, skating, really solid team. So if you had to pick a player to go on a point streak, he'd have to be in the top 5 to do it.
He would easily be mentioned with these guys:
Crosby* (this season is an anomaly - Coach Sullivan, do something!)
Malkin
Toews
Stamkos
Tavares
Benn
Seguin
Backstrom
Ovechkin
Zetterberg**
Datsyuk
D. Sedin
Kane is at 26. It is certainly awesome.
But Wayne kinda owns this one like he does all the O records.
(A nice thing to note - Mario Lemieux put up a 46 point scoring streak. At the time I would have argued he was offensively better than Gretzky. But in retrospect, maybe one-on-one Lemieux had an edge, but in no other aspect. Gretzky was and is the best ever. I was in bitter denial at the time.)
He would easily be mentioned with these guys:
Crosby* (this season is an anomaly - Coach Sullivan, do something!)
Malkin
Toews
Stamkos
Tavares
Benn
Seguin
Backstrom
Ovechkin
Zetterberg**
Datsyuk
D. Sedin
Kane is at 26. It is certainly awesome.
But Wayne kinda owns this one like he does all the O records.
(A nice thing to note - Mario Lemieux put up a 46 point scoring streak. At the time I would have argued he was offensively better than Gretzky. But in retrospect, maybe one-on-one Lemieux had an edge, but in no other aspect. Gretzky was and is the best ever. I was in bitter denial at the time.)
* his longest is 25
** his longest is 24
Shocker: Parents gone bad
Jack Johnson D plays for the Columbus Blue Jackets. He was drafted number one by the Carolina Hurricanes in 2005 (3rd overall). He is a solid own end d-man that hasn't really lived up to that number one pick. But he is good. They say he's a two-way player. If so it is kind of in the mold of Dion Phaneuf.
Anyway, read this: He's a coupon-clipper
Note: don't feel too sorry for him - he's 28 and should be able to muster at least 6 more years of 3-5million a year. Maybe more.
Anyway, read this: He's a coupon-clipper
Note: don't feel too sorry for him - he's 28 and should be able to muster at least 6 more years of 3-5million a year. Maybe more.
14 December 2015
Fifteen: Arizona (2nd Pacific)
Coach Dave Tippet is putting out the best system he can with this group. They are not deep on talent and injuries are having a huge impact. Regardless, the Coyotes should not be a playoff team and even with a terrible previous fifteen days - they are 2nd in the Pacific. If they can get some wins without Martin Hanzal C, maybe they will make the playoffs anyway. That would be a very solid outcome for a real rebuilding year.
Record: 14 - 14 - 2 30pts ( projected: 14 - 14 - 2 30pts)
Significant Injuries:
Mike Smith G
Martin Hanzal C
Backup goalie Anders Lindback has played as well as Mike Smith - so that is not a huge loss. Hanzal, however, is a key for this team to be successful. At least Shane Doan RW has returned.
Next Fifteen Days 12/14/2015 - 12/28/2015:
Thursday Columbus visits
Saturday New York Islanders visit
Tuesday Toronto visits
Saturday Los Angeles visits
Sunday at Colorado
I am being optimistic but I do believe they can play good hockey.
Last Fifteen Days 11/29/2015 - 12/13/2015:
LOSS 2 - 5 at Nashville
LOSS 1 - 5 at Detroit
LOSS 2 - 5 at Buffalo
LOSS 4 - 5 at Carolina
LOSS 1 - 4 at St. Louis
WIN 2 - 1 (OT) Minnesota
LOSS 4 - 5 (OT) Carolina
Injuries to top players on a team that is not deep - you get losses. This team needs all of it players putting it out there to be truly competitive. Shane Doan has been missed out for most of these losses, he just returned for Friday's loss to the Canes.
Record: 14 - 14 - 2 30pts ( projected: 14 - 14 - 2 30pts)
Significant Injuries:
Mike Smith G
Martin Hanzal C
Backup goalie Anders Lindback has played as well as Mike Smith - so that is not a huge loss. Hanzal, however, is a key for this team to be successful. At least Shane Doan RW has returned.
Next Fifteen Days 12/14/2015 - 12/28/2015:
Thursday Columbus visits
Saturday New York Islanders visit
Tuesday Toronto visits
Saturday Los Angeles visits
Sunday at Colorado
I am being optimistic but I do believe they can play good hockey.
5 out of 10pts
2 - 2 - 1
Last Fifteen Days 11/29/2015 - 12/13/2015:
LOSS 2 - 5 at Nashville
LOSS 1 - 5 at Detroit
LOSS 2 - 5 at Buffalo
LOSS 4 - 5 at Carolina
LOSS 1 - 4 at St. Louis
WIN 2 - 1 (OT) Minnesota
LOSS 4 - 5 (OT) Carolina
1 - 5 - 1
3 out of 14pts
Injuries to top players on a team that is not deep - you get losses. This team needs all of it players putting it out there to be truly competitive. Shane Doan has been missed out for most of these losses, he just returned for Friday's loss to the Canes.
Good games on tonight
If you want to watch some hockey - well turn it on tonight.
Edmonton is taking a good head of steam to Boston who has been playing pretty well themselves. 7-1-2 in their last ten. Edmonton has a five game win streak and are 6-3-1 in their last ten
Pittsburgh debuts new coach Mike Sullivan against a pretty darn good Washington Capitals team. Let's see if anything has changed in the Pens determination.
The Los Angeles Kings have gotten points in their last nine, going 7-1-2 over the span. Ottawa has some wrongs to right tonight - they played pretty sad hockey against the Canadiens the other night.
Edmonton is taking a good head of steam to Boston who has been playing pretty well themselves. 7-1-2 in their last ten. Edmonton has a five game win streak and are 6-3-1 in their last ten
Pittsburgh debuts new coach Mike Sullivan against a pretty darn good Washington Capitals team. Let's see if anything has changed in the Pens determination.
The Los Angeles Kings have gotten points in their last nine, going 7-1-2 over the span. Ottawa has some wrongs to right tonight - they played pretty sad hockey against the Canadiens the other night.
Fifteen: Detroit (2nd Atlantic)
The Red Wings lost coach Scotty Bowman years ago and nothing really changed. Now they lose Mike Babcock and...nothing has really changed. The core of Henrik Zetterberg LW, Pavel Datsyuk C, Niklas Kronwall D, Justin Abdelkader LW built around a smart defensive system, has more than kept this team competitive. With a guy like Dylan Larkin C coming in producing at a high level on both ends of the ice and Thomas Tatar LW and Gustav Nyquist C producing as they do, the Red Wings could be a scary team in the playoffs. I feel they are one defenseman away from truly being elite, though.
Record: 16 - 8 - 6 38pts ( projected: 19 - 9 - 8 46pts)
Significant Injuries:
Kyle Quincey D
He is a solid defenseman that plays well in this system - not a star but still missed.
Next Fifteen Days 12/14/2015 - 12/28/2015:
Monday Buffalo visits
Friday Vancouver visits
Sunday Calgary visits
Tuesday New Jersey visits
Saturday at Nashville
Monday at Minnesota
Not sure why I should doubt this Red Wing team but I don't think they will fare as well in this fifteen as the last.
Last Fifteen Days 11/29/2015 - 12/13/2015:
LOSS 1 - 2 (OT) Florida
WIN 5 - 4 (SO) Buffalo
WIN 5 - 1 Arizona
WIN 5 - 4 (OT) Nashville
LOSS 2 - 3 (SO) at Washington
WIN 3 - 2 Montreal
LOSS 2 - 3 (OT) at New Jersey
Detroit continues to surprise me. Another really solid fifteen days, even their losses were solid.
Record: 16 - 8 - 6 38pts ( projected: 19 - 9 - 8 46pts)
Significant Injuries:
Kyle Quincey D
He is a solid defenseman that plays well in this system - not a star but still missed.
Next Fifteen Days 12/14/2015 - 12/28/2015:
Monday Buffalo visits
Friday Vancouver visits
Sunday Calgary visits
Tuesday New Jersey visits
Saturday at Nashville
Monday at Minnesota
Not sure why I should doubt this Red Wing team but I don't think they will fare as well in this fifteen as the last.
8 out of 12pts
3 - 1 - 2
Last Fifteen Days 11/29/2015 - 12/13/2015:
LOSS 1 - 2 (OT) Florida
WIN 5 - 4 (SO) Buffalo
WIN 5 - 1 Arizona
WIN 5 - 4 (OT) Nashville
LOSS 2 - 3 (SO) at Washington
WIN 3 - 2 Montreal
LOSS 2 - 3 (OT) at New Jersey
4 - 0 - 3
11 out of 14pts
Detroit continues to surprise me. Another really solid fifteen days, even their losses were solid.
Fifteen: Toronto (8th Atlantic)
Coach Mike Babcock is proven. So far it seems he is having to untrain this group completely before getting them to play his system solidly. No one is stepping up as the leader of this team. But I believe in Babcock and even more in GM Lou Lamiorello. This season may be a total rebuild - so any successes are positive.
Record: 10 - 13- 5 25pts ( projected: 11 - 16 - 7 29pts)
Significant Injuries:
No current injuries.
Next Fifteen Days 12/14/2015 - 12/28/2015:
Tuesday Tampa Bay visits
Thursday San Jose visits
Saturday Los Angeles visits
Monday at Colorado
Tuesday at Arizona
Sunday at New York Islanders
I could see this Toronto team stealing one against Los Angeles or the Isles. But I could also see them getting blown out by Arizona and Colorado. This is a good time for the Leafs to make a statement.
Last Fifteen Days 11/29/2015 - 12/13/2015:
LOSS 2 - 4 Washington
WIN 3 - 0 Edmonton
LOSS 1 - 6 at Winnipeg
LOSS 0 - 1 at Minnesota
WIN 4 - 1 at St. Louis
WIN 3 - 2 (SO) New Jersey
This could have been a disastrous fifteen days but the wins against St. Louis and New Jersey makes you wonder if the Maple Leafs can turn this terrible season around.
Record: 10 - 13- 5 25pts ( projected: 11 - 16 - 7 29pts)
Significant Injuries:
No current injuries.
Next Fifteen Days 12/14/2015 - 12/28/2015:
Tuesday Tampa Bay visits
Thursday San Jose visits
Saturday Los Angeles visits
Monday at Colorado
Tuesday at Arizona
Sunday at New York Islanders
I could see this Toronto team stealing one against Los Angeles or the Isles. But I could also see them getting blown out by Arizona and Colorado. This is a good time for the Leafs to make a statement.
4 out of 12pts
1 - 3 - 2
Last Fifteen Days 11/29/2015 - 12/13/2015:
LOSS 2 - 4 Washington
WIN 3 - 0 Edmonton
LOSS 1 - 6 at Winnipeg
LOSS 0 - 1 at Minnesota
WIN 4 - 1 at St. Louis
WIN 3 - 2 (SO) New Jersey
3 - 3 - 0
6 out of 12pts
This could have been a disastrous fifteen days but the wins against St. Louis and New Jersey makes you wonder if the Maple Leafs can turn this terrible season around.
Fifteen: Anaheim (7th Pacific)
Corey Perry RW, Ryan Getzlaf C and Sami Vatanen D are carrying this team, as they should, but this season - they are not getting that support from solid second and third and even fourth liners. The defense is also not as solid. Hampus Lindholm D is certainly having a down year after showing great promise his first two seasons. That loss to the Canes feels like a big indication of where this team is.
Record: 11 - 13 - 5 27pts ( projected: 12 - 14 - 8 32pts)
Significant Injuries:
No current injuries.
Next Fifteen Days 12/14/2015 - 12/28/2015:
Thursday at Buffalo
Saturday at New Jersey
Monday at New York Islanders
Tuesday at New York Rangers
Sunday Philadelphia visits
East coast road trip. If they can win three of the four and then beat the Flyers at home, you have to think Boudreau and company can make a playoff push in the new year. I'm not convinced they are improving that much.
Last Fifteen Days 11/29/2015 - 12/13/2015:
WIN 4 - 0 Vancouver
LOSS 1 - 2 Tampa Bay
WIN 1 - 0 San Jose
WIN 2 - 1 Pittsburgh
LOSS 1 - 5 Carolina
Some good wins in this past fifteen days. But that effort against the Canes after 5 days off is a killer.
Record: 11 - 13 - 5 27pts ( projected: 12 - 14 - 8 32pts)
Significant Injuries:
No current injuries.
Next Fifteen Days 12/14/2015 - 12/28/2015:
Thursday at Buffalo
Saturday at New Jersey
Monday at New York Islanders
Tuesday at New York Rangers
Sunday Philadelphia visits
East coast road trip. If they can win three of the four and then beat the Flyers at home, you have to think Boudreau and company can make a playoff push in the new year. I'm not convinced they are improving that much.
5 out of 10pts
1 - 1 - 3
Last Fifteen Days 11/29/2015 - 12/13/2015:
WIN 4 - 0 Vancouver
LOSS 1 - 2 Tampa Bay
WIN 1 - 0 San Jose
WIN 2 - 1 Pittsburgh
LOSS 1 - 5 Carolina
3 - 2 - 0
6 out of 10pts
Some good wins in this past fifteen days. But that effort against the Canes after 5 days off is a killer.
12 December 2015
Shocker: Pittsburgh fires their coach Mike Johnston
I guess this was coming. Pittsburgh has too much talent to be losing like they are.
Reading about the new hire Mike Sullivan is interesting. If his demanding style is embraced by the Pens and he can create a system that generates offense from good own zone play, I think the Pens will be scary.
It's hard to know right now, but I agree with GM Jim Rutherford's statements - this team should produce more.
A new chapter to the season could be starting today.
Reading about the new hire Mike Sullivan is interesting. If his demanding style is embraced by the Pens and he can create a system that generates offense from good own zone play, I think the Pens will be scary.
It's hard to know right now, but I agree with GM Jim Rutherford's statements - this team should produce more.
A new chapter to the season could be starting today.
Fifteen: Colorado (7th Central)
Matt Duchene has certainly proven himself to be that fast dangerous forward - on a team like Los Angeles or Chicago or even the New York Rangers, this kid is top 8 in scoring. Something is not working in Colorado - perhaps, it's coach Patrick Roy at the helm. Perhaps it's too much reliance on aged stars. Mix of all of it, probably. This team can dump a lot at the trade deadline.
Record: 12 - 16 - 1 25pts ( projected: 14 - 19 - 2 30pts)
Significant Injuries:
Gabriel Landeskog LW
Minor injury, so it seems. If not, this is a big hit to a team that can't take any more big hits.
Next Fifteen Days 12/12/2015 - 12/26/2015:
Saturday at Nashville
Sunday at St Louis
Tuesday at Chicago
Thursday New York Islanders visit
Saturday Edmonton visits
Monday Toronto visits
If they don't get three wins in this fifteen days, well, even if they do - they are pretty much out of it.
Last Fifteen Days 11/27/2015 - 12/11/2015:
WIN 5 - 3 Winnipeg
LOSS 3 - 5 at New York Islanders
WIN 2 - 1 at New Jersey
WIN 2 - 1 at New York Rangers
LOSS 0 - 3 at Minnesota
WIN 2 - 1 Minnesota
LOSS 2 - 4 Pittsburgh
Sometime it looks like this team is turning the corner and will start winning. But 8 out of 14 points is not going to get them far from the basement. Wins at New Jersey and the Rangers and home to Minnesota certainly keep them from being totally depressing. They have a long way to go.
Record: 12 - 16 - 1 25pts ( projected: 14 - 19 - 2 30pts)
Significant Injuries:
Gabriel Landeskog LW
Minor injury, so it seems. If not, this is a big hit to a team that can't take any more big hits.
Next Fifteen Days 12/12/2015 - 12/26/2015:
Saturday at Nashville
Sunday at St Louis
Tuesday at Chicago
Thursday New York Islanders visit
Saturday Edmonton visits
Monday Toronto visits
If they don't get three wins in this fifteen days, well, even if they do - they are pretty much out of it.
5 out of 12pts
2 - 3 - 1
Last Fifteen Days 11/27/2015 - 12/11/2015:
WIN 5 - 3 Winnipeg
LOSS 3 - 5 at New York Islanders
WIN 2 - 1 at New Jersey
WIN 2 - 1 at New York Rangers
LOSS 0 - 3 at Minnesota
WIN 2 - 1 Minnesota
LOSS 2 - 4 Pittsburgh
4 - 3 - 0
8 out of 14pts
Sometime it looks like this team is turning the corner and will start winning. But 8 out of 14 points is not going to get them far from the basement. Wins at New Jersey and the Rangers and home to Minnesota certainly keep them from being totally depressing. They have a long way to go.
Fifteen: Columbus (8th Metropolitan)
The Blue Jackets haven't built on the promise of their last two seasons successes and really aren't building anything on small successes this season, too. The stars of this team should be Ryan Johansen C, Nick Foligno LW, Brandon Saad LW, and Sergei Bobrovsky G. But really none are elevating their games for wins. If things don't turn, Scott Hartnell LW could bring something at the trade deadline - he continues to show himself to be a really solid agitating, gritty forward that can deposit the puck in the net.
Record: 11 - 17 - 2 24pts ( projected: 14 - 20 - 3 31pts)
Significant Injuries:
Sergei Bobrovsky G
Bobrovsky is certainly a starter - but this team has a lot of holes defensively, so the goalie isn't going to change much.
Next Fifteen Days 12/12/2015 - 12/26/2015:
Saturday New York Islanders visit
Monday Tampa Bay visits
Tuesday at Dallas
Thursday at Arizona
Saturday Philadelphia visits
Monday at Pittsburgh
Saturday at Tampa Bay
This fifteen days should give Columbus a chance to turn their season around. If they come away with fewer than 5 wins - I don't think this team has any chance at the playoffs.
Last Fifteen Days 11/27/2015 - 12/11/2015:
WIN 2 - 1 (OT) Pittsburgh
LOSS 1 - 3 at St Louis
LOSS 1 - 2 at Montreal
LOSS 1 - 2 (SO) Florida
WIN 4 - 1 at Philadelphia
LOSS 2 - 3 (OT) Los Angeles
LOSS 4 - 6 at Winnipeg
Despite some improvement under coach John Tortorella (maybe - what team would lose ALL their games anyway, as Columbus started the season - in other words, any coach would have seen improvement), the Blue Jackets are performing FAR below what many experts thought. Defense is key in this league and this mix of forwards and defensemen don't seem to play it well.
Record: 11 - 17 - 2 24pts ( projected: 14 - 20 - 3 31pts)
Significant Injuries:
Sergei Bobrovsky G
Bobrovsky is certainly a starter - but this team has a lot of holes defensively, so the goalie isn't going to change much.
Next Fifteen Days 12/12/2015 - 12/26/2015:
Saturday New York Islanders visit
Monday Tampa Bay visits
Tuesday at Dallas
Thursday at Arizona
Saturday Philadelphia visits
Monday at Pittsburgh
Saturday at Tampa Bay
This fifteen days should give Columbus a chance to turn their season around. If they come away with fewer than 5 wins - I don't think this team has any chance at the playoffs.
7 out of 14pts
3 - 3 - 1
Last Fifteen Days 11/27/2015 - 12/11/2015:
WIN 2 - 1 (OT) Pittsburgh
LOSS 1 - 3 at St Louis
LOSS 1 - 2 at Montreal
LOSS 1 - 2 (SO) Florida
WIN 4 - 1 at Philadelphia
LOSS 2 - 3 (OT) Los Angeles
LOSS 4 - 6 at Winnipeg
2 - 3 - 2
6 out of 14pts
Despite some improvement under coach John Tortorella (maybe - what team would lose ALL their games anyway, as Columbus started the season - in other words, any coach would have seen improvement), the Blue Jackets are performing FAR below what many experts thought. Defense is key in this league and this mix of forwards and defensemen don't seem to play it well.
Fifteen: Dallas (1st Central)
The Dallas Stars might have the best offensive full line of any club in the league. Tyler Seguin C and Jamie Benn. LW are as dangerous as any duo in the league - think Getzlaf/Perry of previous seasons but slightly more dangerous. Coach Lindy Ruff puts out a fun, tough brand here and I think Dallas is one of the more enjoyable hockey teams to watch. A seven game series against Los Angeles or Chicago will be so awesome to see.
Record: 22 - 5 - 2 46pts ( projected: 27 - 7 - 2 46pts)
Significant Injuries:
No significant injuries.
Next Fifteen Days 12/12/2015 - 12/26/2015:
Saturday at St Louis
Tuesday Columbus visits
Thursday Calgary visits
Saturday Montreal visits
Monday at Minnesota
Tuesday Chicago visits
Saturday at St Louis
Many tests on this leg of fifteen days. The Chicago games is always a litmus test for a team. Calgary played them very well last time. A split with St. Louis isn't bad - winning both could be a statement.
Last Fifteen Days 11/27/2015 - 12/11/2015:
WIN 3 - 2 (SO) Vancouver
WIN 4 - 3 (OT) at Minnesota
LOSS 3 - 4 (SO) at Calgary
WIN 4 - 2 at Vancouver
LOSS 2 - 1 at Edmonton
WIN 6 - 5 Carolina
WIN 3 - 1 Philadelphia
Record: 22 - 5 - 2 46pts ( projected: 27 - 7 - 2 46pts)
Significant Injuries:
No significant injuries.
Next Fifteen Days 12/12/2015 - 12/26/2015:
Saturday at St Louis
Tuesday Columbus visits
Thursday Calgary visits
Saturday Montreal visits
Monday at Minnesota
Tuesday Chicago visits
Saturday at St Louis
Many tests on this leg of fifteen days. The Chicago games is always a litmus test for a team. Calgary played them very well last time. A split with St. Louis isn't bad - winning both could be a statement.
10 out of 14pts
5 - 2 - 0
Last Fifteen Days 11/27/2015 - 12/11/2015:
WIN 3 - 2 (SO) Vancouver
WIN 4 - 3 (OT) at Minnesota
LOSS 3 - 4 (SO) at Calgary
WIN 4 - 2 at Vancouver
LOSS 2 - 1 at Edmonton
WIN 6 - 5 Carolina
WIN 3 - 1 Philadelphia
5 - 1 - 1
11 out of 14pts
Dallas is certainly a high-octane offense. Being held to one goal at Edmonton is a shocker. But overall, Dallas is playing winning hockey - seems they can always get a goal when needed.
Fifteen: Washington (1st Metropolitan)
The Caps no longer live and die based on Alex Ovechkin LW. He is now their prime weapon. The defense holds things tighter and Braden Holtby G is certainly benefitting. This Washington team is poised for a long run in the playoffs as they are currently playing. Evengy Kuznetsov C is a happy surprise - currently leading the team in points. The off-season grabs of T.J. Oshie RW and Justin Williams RW are helping now and will definitely help come playoff time.
Record: 19 - 6 - 2 40pts ( projected: 24 - 7 - 3 51pts)
Significant Injuries:
Brooks Orpik D
Nothing huge here - they should be better when he returns but they have been playing well without him.
Next Fifteen Days 12/12/2015 - 12/26/2015:
Saturday at Tampa Bay
Monday at Pittsburgh
Wednesday Ottawa visits
Friday Tampa Bay visits
Sunday at New York Rangers
Monday at Carolina
Saturday Montreal visits
This slate of fifteen should be a wee bit tougher than the last fifteen. But they are getting all of these at their lower performance. The problem is all six of the opponents are in a situation to only play better.
Last Fifteen Days 11/27/2015 - 12/11/2015:
WIN 4 - 2 Tampa Bay
WIN 4 - 2 at Toronto
WIN 3 - 2 at Montreal
LOSS 1 - 2 (OT) at Winnipeg
WIN 3 - 2 (SO) Detroit
LOSS 1 - 4 at Florida
Record: 19 - 6 - 2 40pts ( projected: 24 - 7 - 3 51pts)
Significant Injuries:
Brooks Orpik D
Nothing huge here - they should be better when he returns but they have been playing well without him.
Next Fifteen Days 12/12/2015 - 12/26/2015:
Saturday at Tampa Bay
Monday at Pittsburgh
Wednesday Ottawa visits
Friday Tampa Bay visits
Sunday at New York Rangers
Monday at Carolina
Saturday Montreal visits
This slate of fifteen should be a wee bit tougher than the last fifteen. But they are getting all of these at their lower performance. The problem is all six of the opponents are in a situation to only play better.
11 out of 14pts
5 - 1 - 1
Last Fifteen Days 11/27/2015 - 12/11/2015:
WIN 4 - 2 Tampa Bay
WIN 4 - 2 at Toronto
WIN 3 - 2 at Montreal
LOSS 1 - 2 (OT) at Winnipeg
WIN 3 - 2 (SO) Detroit
LOSS 1 - 4 at Florida
4 - 1 - 1
9 out of 12pts
The Caps have been one of the truly consistent teams of the season so far. Not a lot of downs. This is another fifteen days of quality play. Losing 4 - 1 to Florida isn't good. But we'll see them bounce back, I suspect.
10 December 2015
Fifteen: Los Angeles (1st Pacific)
Los Angeles is a very deep team and they work hard. They know how to win. And they know how to not lose. Drew Doughty - D may not win the Norris but I still might pick him number one overall in a league-wide draft. The forwards are big and Anze Kopitar plays like a stronger Patrice Bergeron. Milan Lucic is going to be difficult for teams to play against too. This is a very solid team.
Record: 18 - 8 - 1 37pts ( projected: 23 - 9 - 1 50pts)
Significant Injuries:
Trevor Lewis C
Kyle Clifford LW
Nothing huge here - they certainly want these two back, but neither is key to their winning.
Next Fifteen Days 12/10/2015 - 12/24/2015:
Friday at Pittsburgh
Saturday at Buffalo
Monday at Ottawa
Thursday at Montreal
Saturday at Toronto
Tuesday San Jose visits
A nice road trip or two. This will be a great measure of just how focused the Kings are. They've got a five game win streak going now. I think they could lose to either Pittsburgh or Montreal but neither are playing so great right now. LA could come away from this with an 11 game win streak at Christmas.
Last Fifteen Days 11/25/2015 - 12/09/2015:
LOSS 1 - 2 (SO) at Tampa Bay
WIN 3 - 2 (OT) Chicago
WIN 2 - 1 (OT) Vancouver
WIN 5 - 3 Pittsburgh
WIN 3 - 1 Tampa Bay
WIN 3 - 2 (OT) at Columbus
Record: 18 - 8 - 1 37pts ( projected: 23 - 9 - 1 50pts)
Significant Injuries:
Trevor Lewis C
Kyle Clifford LW
Nothing huge here - they certainly want these two back, but neither is key to their winning.
Next Fifteen Days 12/10/2015 - 12/24/2015:
Friday at Pittsburgh
Saturday at Buffalo
Monday at Ottawa
Thursday at Montreal
Saturday at Toronto
Tuesday San Jose visits
A nice road trip or two. This will be a great measure of just how focused the Kings are. They've got a five game win streak going now. I think they could lose to either Pittsburgh or Montreal but neither are playing so great right now. LA could come away from this with an 11 game win streak at Christmas.
10 out of 12pts
5 - 1 - 0
Last Fifteen Days 11/25/2015 - 12/09/2015:
LOSS 1 - 2 (SO) at Tampa Bay
WIN 3 - 2 (OT) Chicago
WIN 2 - 1 (OT) Vancouver
WIN 5 - 3 Pittsburgh
WIN 3 - 1 Tampa Bay
WIN 3 - 2 (OT) at Columbus
5 - 0 - 1
11 out of 12pts
Los Angeles is playing that brand of hockey that has won them two Stanley Cups in the last 3 years. Definitely a team that is never out of a game and a lot of the time it just feels like they can push their will on any opponent when they need. That is how this last fifteen days have been for them.
Fifteen: Montreal (1st Atlantic)
Montreal still plays a really good system for their personnel. They are a tough team to play in a best of seven series. P.K. Subban and Andrei Markov are easily one of the top d-pairs in the league. Their forwards are speedy and plenty can finish. All the ingredients that got this team to 9-0-0 to start the season are still here. I think they have another streak in them but I don't think this group gets the cup as they currently sit.
Record: 19 - 7 - 3 41pts ( projected: 22 - 8 - 6 50pts)
Significant Injuries:
Torey Mitchell RW
Brendan Gallagher RW
Carey Price G
Devante Smith-Pelley RW
I would say any time 3 guys in the same position are injured, there has to be an impact. Carey Price is certainly better than Mike Condon, but so far Condon has played well.
Next Fifteen Days 12/10/2015 - 12/24/2015:
Thursday at Detroit
Saturday Ottawa visits
Tuesday San Jose visits
Thursday Los Angeles visits
Saturday at Dallas
Monday at Nashville
Tuesday at Minnesota
The loss streak could go to 4 pretty easily tonight. Detroit is playing really good hockey. Overall this is not an easy 15 days. Ottawa, San Jose, Nashville and Minnesota should be 7 or 8 points. If they grab 3 points from Detroit, LA and Dallas, they are "righting the ship" so to speak.
Last Fifteen Days 11/25/2015 - 12/09/2015:
WIN 5 - 1 at Rangers
WIN 3 - 2 (SO) at New Jersey
LOSS 2 - 3 (OT) New Jersey
WIN 2 - 1 Columbus
LOSS 2 - 3 Washington
LOSS 2 - 3 at Carolina
LOST 1 - 3 Boston
Record: 19 - 7 - 3 41pts ( projected: 22 - 8 - 6 50pts)
Significant Injuries:
Torey Mitchell RW
Brendan Gallagher RW
Carey Price G
Devante Smith-Pelley RW
I would say any time 3 guys in the same position are injured, there has to be an impact. Carey Price is certainly better than Mike Condon, but so far Condon has played well.
Next Fifteen Days 12/10/2015 - 12/24/2015:
Thursday at Detroit
Saturday Ottawa visits
Tuesday San Jose visits
Thursday Los Angeles visits
Saturday at Dallas
Monday at Nashville
Tuesday at Minnesota
The loss streak could go to 4 pretty easily tonight. Detroit is playing really good hockey. Overall this is not an easy 15 days. Ottawa, San Jose, Nashville and Minnesota should be 7 or 8 points. If they grab 3 points from Detroit, LA and Dallas, they are "righting the ship" so to speak.
9 out of 14pts
3 - 1 - 3
Last Fifteen Days 11/25/2015 - 12/09/2015:
WIN 5 - 1 at Rangers
WIN 3 - 2 (SO) at New Jersey
LOSS 2 - 3 (OT) New Jersey
WIN 2 - 1 Columbus
LOSS 2 - 3 Washington
LOSS 2 - 3 at Carolina
LOST 1 - 3 Boston
3 - 3 - 1
7 out of 14pts
After a torrid start, the Habs are kinda just better than most. I think this is worse than they really are. Depth of scoring and depth on defense could cost them playoff position, but once in the playoffs, they'll shorten their bench and be a very tough group to win against.
How the mighty fall...
Two teams that have kinda ruled the top rank at ESPN this season fell last night.
The Montreal Canadiens.
Goalie Mike Condon will be getting a lot of blame indirectly as everyone will be praising "Jim" Carey Price. However, the goals last night are more indicative of that Boston team playing to their strengths. They were patient and kept churning and pushing. My respect for Patrice Bergeron and Zdeno Chara has grown a lot this season. Boston's successes aren't all on those two by any means. But those two do elevate this team, along with David Krejci.
Montreal's problems are the same as last year. Great system. And I do believe this team is slightly better than last season. But they don't have the forward depth to generate quality chances without giving up something defensively. And P.K. Subban often pushes too much, which will have obvious detrimental results when the opposition is an opportunistic fast team like Boston.
Carey Price will return and the Canadiens may go on a small roll when he does. But if things continue on the current path look for people to say how Price just isn't the same after his injury.
The Canadiens are like the Washington Capitals of previous seasons and maybe the Dallas Stars this season, but without the go-to offensive power of those two teams. But all of them lacked that defensive lock-down d-man that can hold it down when the team needs to push.
The New York Rangers.
I think the Rangers came into the season playing lock-down patient hockey with playoff-type focus and intensity. It worked. The goals came and the opponents were often left hanging their heads, unable to garner any goals off of good scoring opportunities. The Rangers can be really great like this. They have speed. They have some true goal-scorers. But overall, the offense doesn't generate easy ones and that means they have to lock it down in their own end.
The last couple of weeks - the Rangers haven't been neutralizing the good scoring chances. They are losing. Also, they haven't been getting goals from Zuccs or Nash.
The Rangers currently do not look like a top-echelon team.
The Montreal Canadiens.
Goalie Mike Condon will be getting a lot of blame indirectly as everyone will be praising "Jim" Carey Price. However, the goals last night are more indicative of that Boston team playing to their strengths. They were patient and kept churning and pushing. My respect for Patrice Bergeron and Zdeno Chara has grown a lot this season. Boston's successes aren't all on those two by any means. But those two do elevate this team, along with David Krejci.
Montreal's problems are the same as last year. Great system. And I do believe this team is slightly better than last season. But they don't have the forward depth to generate quality chances without giving up something defensively. And P.K. Subban often pushes too much, which will have obvious detrimental results when the opposition is an opportunistic fast team like Boston.
Carey Price will return and the Canadiens may go on a small roll when he does. But if things continue on the current path look for people to say how Price just isn't the same after his injury.
The Canadiens are like the Washington Capitals of previous seasons and maybe the Dallas Stars this season, but without the go-to offensive power of those two teams. But all of them lacked that defensive lock-down d-man that can hold it down when the team needs to push.
The New York Rangers.
I think the Rangers came into the season playing lock-down patient hockey with playoff-type focus and intensity. It worked. The goals came and the opponents were often left hanging their heads, unable to garner any goals off of good scoring opportunities. The Rangers can be really great like this. They have speed. They have some true goal-scorers. But overall, the offense doesn't generate easy ones and that means they have to lock it down in their own end.
The last couple of weeks - the Rangers haven't been neutralizing the good scoring chances. They are losing. Also, they haven't been getting goals from Zuccs or Nash.
The Rangers currently do not look like a top-echelon team.
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