Ultimate Hockey

SWEDEN WINS GOLD

2012-01-06T15:01:00.003+01:00

No games in the NHL matter today because last night Sweden's juniors pulled off a heroic feat, beating defending champions, Russia, 1-0 in a dramatic OT game!

We have waited 31 years for this and now we are finally world champions again. Mika Zibanejad scored with less than 10 minutes left in OT to give Sweden gold.

Russian goalie, Andrei Makarov, was stunning, making an incredible 57 saves. Ultimately, it wasn't enough. Sweden outshot the Russians 58-17 and one goal was enough to win it.

Congratulations to the players and coach Roger Rönnberg!

Super Mario

2011-12-29T22:02:00.001+01:00

Mario Lemieux in a game against the St. Louis Blues

I just finished watching a documentary on Mario Lemieux and it never ceases to amaze me how good this guy was. Wayne Gretzky, by most people considered to be the greatest hockey player ever, holds no less than 61 individual NHL records and most of them will never be beaten. His stats speak for themselves. But when I look at those unbelievable records, I see a glimps of what Mario could have achieved had he only been healthy. Though he battled through cancer and back problems, just two of many ailments he faced in his career, he still managed to win the scoring title 6 times and guide the Pittsburgh Penguins to 2 Stanley Cups. The fact is, Mario Lemieux probably never played a single game at 100% after 1989.

As great as he was, we probably never saw him reach his full potential. If he had been able to play his whole career free from major injuries and illness, he would have destroyed every single one of Gretzky's records, just like he shattered Guy Lafleur's Quebec Major Junior Hockey League record with his 282 point season. He not only broke the record, he also anounced he would do it when he was drafted by Laval Voisins. He was 15 at the time.

If you ask me, Mario Lemieux is the greatest hockey player ever to play in the NHL.

Classic Jerseys

2011-12-28T21:12:00.001+01:00

Speaking of ugly jerseys... Yes, I've noticed that I keep coming back to this topic, but who doesn't enjoy watching the game being played in a great looking jersey? Here are some of my favorite jerseys from the past.

The classic Flyers jersey of the 70's. The fact that it's worn by Bobby Clarke and is covered in blood only makes it that much cooler.

This one, sported by Team Canada at the 1972 Summit Series against the Russians, is one of my favorites. It didn't have the players names on the back, just Canada.


This 90's Vancouver Canucks jersey is a classic. Why they didn't stick with that one is a complete mystery to me.


Who can argue with this one? The Whalers may not have been the greatest of teams, but few could match the way they looked.

Mike Bossy has just scored again. And he did it wearing what I think is the ultimate hockey jersey, the 80's Islanders.

Did I leave out any obvious ones?

The Ugliest Jersey Ever!

2011-12-25T20:09:00.001+01:00

Toronto 5 - Islanders 3

That'll teach the Isles to wear thoose hideous 3:rd jerseys. And the inexplainable blue helmet? No, it doesn't help.

Suspended? So what?

2011-12-08T13:43:00.004+01:00

Brendan Shanahan is a busy man these days. Every other hockey article on ESPN or TSN is about some player who is about to have a phone conference with Shanahan. I personally think he's doing a great job, though a very thankless one. He may seem like the bad guy to some, but in the long run I'm sure his work will be much appreciated, if it will have a significant impact, that is.

All these two- to three-game suspensions could of course lead to a decline in head shots and other unsportsmanlike conduct. But, is it possible it won't? Sure. What if getting a two-game suspension becomes normal around the league? It used to be a huge deal when someone got a suspension, but now it doesn't seem like a big deal.

What Shanahan is doing is undoubtedly good for hockey, but more importantly is that we start teaching the kids that this kind of play has no place in hockey. It's a slow process.

.

All Star Laugh

2011-12-07T10:08:00.001+01:00

The All-Star voting is such a joke. Phil Kessel leads all players and I'm not arguing with that. He's had a great start to the season, ending an eight game scoring slump last night. But how on earth can James Reimer lead all goaltenders in the voting? Because most voters are of course Toronto fans. It's kind of sad to see how little they know about hockey. On the other hand, who cares about the All-Stars?

Catch me if you can

2011-12-04T02:18:00.003+01:00

Dustin Penner, Scottie Upshall, Shawn Thornton, Benoit Pouliot, Erik Christensen, Matt Stajan, Scott Gomez, Darren Helm, Niklas Hagman, Jeff Halpern, Samuel Pahlsson, Nick Palmieri, Justin Abdelkader, Drew Miller, Chuck Kobasew, Matthew Lombardi, Raffi Torres, Derek MacKenzie, Michal Handzus, Todd Bertuzzi, Brian Rolston, Ville Leino, Sam Gagner, Brian Boyle, RJ Umberger, Manny Malhotra, Dan Cleary, Eric Belanger, Arron Asham, Mike Knuble, Wayne Simmonds, Lars Eller, Guillaume Latendresse, Rene Bourque, Tyler Kennedy, Mark Giordano, Maxim Lapierre, Jeff Carter, Brad Boyes, Jamie Langenbrunner, David Clarkson, Jordin Tootoo, Joel Ward, Ruslan Fedetenko, Alexei Ponikarovsky, Brenden Morrow, Cal Clutterbuck, Matt D'Agostini, Andrew Cogliano, David Booth, Dave Bolland, Lee Stepniak, Josh Gorges, Frans Nielsen, Alexander Semin, Ales Hemsky, Travis Moen, Martin Havlat, Nikolai Kulemin, Michael Grabner, Patric Hornqvist, Sergei Kostitsyn.

These are all players whom Sidney Crosby have passed in the scoring race just seven games after his return. In how many games from now will he crack the top 30?

Meet The New Boss..

2011-12-01T19:28:00.001+01:00

..same as the old boss. Bruce Boudreau is the new head coach of the not so mighty Ducks of Anaheim. Remains to be seen if the Ducks are better at listening than the underachieving Caps were. Question is, what's going to happen to Randy Carlisle?

Sid the Hypocrite

2011-11-29T09:33:00.001+01:00

Sidney Crosby spent a year away from the NHL because of a concussion. During that time he has spoken out against head shots, stressing the importance of getting rid of them. Well, I guess that was all talk or perhaps he thinks it's ok for him to hand out elbows to the head, like he did to Nick Foligno. It sure wasn't pretty and Crosby should be suspended for it, though he probably won't be.

......

Next Class

2011-11-14T23:50:00.002+01:00

The class of 2011 will be inducted into the Hall of Fame in a few days. Mark Howe, Joe Nieuwendyk, Ed Belfour and Doug Gilmore all deserve this honor.

Here are my picks for the 2012 entry to the Hockey Hall of Fame.

1. Mats Sundin (leads all Maple Leafs in points and goals, tied for most OT-goals (15) in NHL)
2. Brendan Shanahan (11th in career goals with 656)
3. Pavel Bure (5 times a +50 goal scorer)
4. Joe Sakic (Number 8 in points all time, two Stanley Cups with Colorado and numerous other awards)

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Back in the U.S.S.R?

2011-11-11T12:38:00.005+01:00

Linus Omark is may be heading back to Russia to play in the KHL. He has had a tough time cracking the roster with an Oilers team full of young, exceptionally talented players. I just hate to see another very gifted Swedish player give up so easily. He says he would prefer to play with Edmonton, but he's not there right now. Is it just me or does it seem like kids born in the 80s and on are more likely to quit? I think they have been pampered too much and things don't go there way they rather fold than fight.

Bring Back the Jets

2010-07-08T20:28:00.006+02:00

Winnipeg looks to be a serious contender should the Phoenix Coyotes leave Arizona. I really hope they get their team back. They have a new arena, even though it would be the smallest in the league, it would probably sell out constantly, and a solid economic backing. But most of all I hope, that if they do get a NHL team, they bring back the old Jet's jersey. It's such a classic and anything else would be down right criminal.

* * * * *

The Vancouver Canucks will retire Markus Naslund's jersey on Dec. 11.

Gillis said the decision to retire Naslund's No. 19 was "a no-brainer."

"We looked at a number of criteria, Contributions to the team, to the community, all sorts of different things. We found that Markus was in the higher categories of all of them. I know he's thrilled about being able to come back here and have his sweater retired."

Well deserved, Markus, well deserved!

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Flamed Out?

2010-07-06T18:18:00.002+02:00

TSN POLL:
Who will make a bigger impact with the Calgary Flames?

Olli Jokinen or Alex Tanguay

Who really cares?

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Momentum is a tricky thing

2010-05-16T19:18:00.003+02:00

Momentum is what every team in the playoffs strive to get. When you don't have it, you do all you can to get it back, a timely goal, a hit, or even a fight at the right time can do the trick. And that's the thing about momentum, it usually does shifts.The funny thing about the Philadelphia Flyers' historic comeback against the Boston Bruins was that once the Flyers got the momentum back in Game 4 it never shifted back to Boston for the next four games. Don't get me wrong, I am by no means suggesting the Flyers got lucky and managed to win the last four games. No, you have to work hard to get the momentum and even harder to keep it and that is what they did. Not even when Boston were up 3-0 in Game 7 did the Flyers give up. Momentum was starting to sway toward the Bruins, by then tired of all the talk of a historic comeback, but "Broad Street Bullies" dug in even harder and got it right back.

The great former Sweden international football player, Tomas Brolin, once said of a game against Russia in the 1994 World Cup, "We weren't worried because we knew we were going to win." They were down 0-1 but they were totally confident they were going to win. That feeling cannot be overestimated, and I am absolutely convinced this is what the Philadelphia Flyers knew after Game 3. They weren't worried.

CBC uniform?

2010-05-07T04:20:00.002+02:00

It used to be rediculous ties, but this..? What the hell is it?

The Mule Show

2010-05-07T02:33:00.003+02:00

What can I say about Johan Franzen? Four goals in five minutes! I can't remember seeing anything like it before (I didn't see the game where Mike Richards scored four goals in one period). No wonder "The Mule" is popular in the Motor City. Down 3-0 in the series against San Jose, the Red Wings came out in the first period a desperate team. To say the least, it worked for them.

I just heard he lost one of the goals after they reviewed it so now he's left with a hattrick.

So Detroit earns a huge win over the Sharks in Game 4 to make it 3-1 in the series. Make no mistake, the Wings are determined to turn this series around. Dan Boyle said before tonight's game that he was one hundred percent sure the Red Wings were one hundred percent sure they could do it. Well, it's one down and three to go.

Original Six Final?

2010-05-02T17:07:00.002+02:00

There is a chance we will see an "original six finals". I am aware that both Vancouver and San Jose jumped to early 1-0 leads in their series, but there is still a long way to go and I still think Detroit will, yet again, ruin it for the Sharks and advance to the Conference finals. As for Chicago, I'm not so sure. Vancouver is deeper in scoring and defensively, surprisingly, more solid than the Blackhawks. With Detroit being the western original six to advance to the Stanley Cup finals, it is up to Boston and Montreal to fight for the other spot. Bruins are looking very good against the Flyers and have a great chance to take that series, especially with Marc Savard back in the line-up. Montreal on the other hand will most likely not come out as winners in their series against reigning champs Pittsburgh. Can Boston beat the Penguins? I think they can. The Bruins is one of those good teams that, due to injuries, didn't do as well as expected during the regular season, but now they have found their groove and are rolling again.
Detroit - Boston in the final, that is my pick. And wouldn't that matchup be a treat while these two teams so rarely play each other.

By the way; the look on Marc Savard's face when he scored the winner in overtime.. Priceless!

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Goods & Bads

2010-04-28T11:30:00.003+02:00

With the first round of the Stanley Cup playoffs almost wrapped up, Washington and Montreal have a decisive Game 7 left to play, here are some goods and bads of the post season so far.

Good - Detroit played as close to a perfect game as possible in Game 7 against Phoenix. They scored on their power plays and they killed all of the Coyotes' man advantage situations. And, to use a real cliché, their best players were their best players.

Bad - Washington will be without defenseman Tom Poti, who suffered a fratured orbital bone after getting a puck in the face. Tough break for the Caps.

Good - Marc Savard is healty and has been cleared to play in the second round. Although Boston finally found some scoring against the Sabres, Savard will be a most welcomed addition.

Bad - The New Jersey Devils. I really thought the Devils would go far in the playoffs this year, and I am sure they did too. But many of their best players did not show up for the first round and the Flyers took advantage of that, handing in four solid wins in five games.

Good - Brian Boucher. After a rollercoaster decade he is finally back playing for the team that once drafted him, the Philadelphia Flyers. He was fantastic against the Devils and he leads all goalies in save percentage and GAA.

Finally I have to get back to last night's game and say, I really like Dave Tippet. Besides being a really nice guy he is also honest. At the post game press conference he did not shy away from admitting they had been thumped by a team that, at crunch time, had stepped its game up to a level the Coyotes could not reach. I also liked it when he called the Red Wing-duo, Henrik Zetterberg and Pavel Datsyuk the "Two-Headed Monster". Classic!

Final Round

2010-04-11T12:43:00.004+02:00

Henrik Sedin did what he could against the Calgary Flames. His teammates also did what they could to get the puck to him all night. Henrik played around five minutes more then usual and ended up with four assists. Brother Daniel also had a four-point night. He scored three goals, of which the last one was a sick stick-between-the-legs stunt. So Henrik Sedin leads the point race with his franschise-record 112 points. Now all he can do is wait and see what Alexander Ovechkin can do in his last game. The Russian sits three points behind in the hunt for the Art Ross.

In Philadelphia it all comes down to what feels like a Game 7 between the Flyers and the New York Rangers. One game. The winner is in the playoffs, the loser is out. It's a tough one. The Blueshirts looked good in the last game against the Flyers and the are 7-2-1 in their last ten and winners in the last two. Philadelphia, eventhough they are playing at home, are just 3-6-1 in their last ten. I will go with the Rangers.

Detroit are in a good spot right now. Currently in fifth place in the Western Conference, they will face the fourth-placed Phoenix Coyotes in the first round. Not that Phoenix is in any way a bad team, they have had a fantastic season, but I don't think they were hoping to get the Wings in the first round. Actually, I doubt any team were hoping to get Detroit. Well, it all comes down to the last game. The Red Wings need to win their last game, away against Chicago. If they lose and Los Angeles beat Colorado away, the Wings will instead face Vancouver in the first round.

Wow, there is so much at stake in this final round of the season. Just the way it should be.

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Surging Wings short on goals

2010-03-25T16:43:00.005+01:00

I just realized I had not written anything all season, so here it goes.

With less than ten games left of the regular season, things are finally looking a little better for the Detroit Red Wings. They are 8-1-1 in their last ten games have been victorious in three straight. Still, I can't help but think of the scoring depth they lost compared to last season and how they will cope with that in the playoffs.

The Wings have a +5 scoring differential, which is extremely low for them. Also, they have scored only 200 goals. Every team ahead of them in the Western conference has scored more. Nashville has 7 more goals, Colorado 20, Los Angeles 14. Phoneix has just one more goal than the Red Wings, but they sit on a pretty good +20 goal diff. Vancouver has scored 42 more goals (the difference being Mikael Samuelsson who the Wings lost to the Canucks. San Jose and Chicago have each 36 more goals than Detroit. Overall scoring among the top eight teams is higher in the west, but of course the Washington Capitals stand out in the east, outscoring the Red Wings by 87 goals and a +81.

Just something to think about.

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See You Later, Joe

2009-07-09T19:11:00.004+02:00

One of the all-time greats is calling it quits. After 20 seasons in the NHL, all with one franchise, Joe Sakic has decided to hang up his skates. Throughout his fantastic career, the Colorado captain, known for his leathal wrist shot and smooth passing, won two Stanley Cups with Colorado and recieved the Hart Trophy in 2001.

Sakic retires as number eight in scoring. He is one of only seven players with both 600 goals and 1,000 assists (1,640)

The Vancouver native is considered one of the greatest leaders in NHL history. He was a gentleman, both on and off the ice and he will be greatly missed.

The game won't be the same without you, Joe.

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Bitter Wings and Disrespecting Penguins

2009-06-15T21:55:00.005+02:00

Despite being up 2-0 and 3-2, the Detroit Red Wings couldn't finish off the Pittsburgh Penguins. Just like they did against the Washington Capitals, the Pens came back to win the series after being down 2-0.

No one is debating the fact that the Pittsburgh Penguins are the 2009 Stanley Cup Champions, however, there has been a lot of talk about Sidney Crosby being disrespectful and of the Wings being sore losers.

Here is what I think.

Sidney Crosby gets away with a lot of stuff simply because he is young and inexperienced and most people seem to think he deserves to be protected like he's the new Wayne Gretzky. Don't get me wrong, I think Crosby is a great hockey player and he has a lot in common with the Great One, not just the fact that they both wine a lot. But as a captain he has a lot to learn.

Those who call the Detroit players sore losers fail to recognize that there is such a thing as a bad winner. Treating your opponent with respect comes with the title and Crosby failed to do that. At 22, he should have watched enough cup finals to know that you always shake hands with the losing team before you start doing interviews and going nuts celebrating. That is just how it's done, and noty just in hockey but in most other sports as well. There are no special circumstances because you're Sidney Crosby.

Another question that has been raised after Detroit's loss in Game 7, is whether the Red Wing dynasty is over because of it. Why would it be?

Not only was Detroit the first reigning champion to get past the first round of the playoffs in years, but they made it all the way to the Stanley Cup Finals and Game 7. Except the fact that Nicklas Lidstrom has one more year left on his contract, they have players like Zetterberg, Franzen, Datsyuk, Kronwall, Filppula, Helm, Ericsson who will be around a lot longer, making the Wings a contender for years to come. And even after that, there are new players ready to take their place. Detroit does not rely on one or two stars, but on the organization's ability to mold players to fit their system. Old players show new players how defense comes first and back checking hard is a must or you're gone. I honestly think both Datsyuk and Zetterberg would have been different players on any other team. They would have been great, but perhaps not the two best two-way players in the league.

Last but not least, I would like to say that I think Marc-Andre Fleury should have been awarded the Conn Smythe Trophy. In the end, he made the difference.

So, congrats Penguins! I can't wait for October to come around.

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Wheels Come Off Penguins

2009-06-07T10:44:00.005+02:00

Still think Sidney Crosby is the best player in the world? Give me a break! The kid and his superstar side-kick are being schooled out there by the best.

The Red Wings are defending champions for a reason and they have the strength, depth and experience to win when it matters the most. Crosby and Evgeni Malkin have a lot to learn, and you'd think they would have by now. No they have not. The two "superstars" acted like upset and frustrated babies. Whenever things go against Malkin, he loses his head and starts acting stupid. He thinks he is some how inspiring his teammates by elbowing John Franzen, when all he is really doing is showing his lack of mental toughness.

I can understand how frustrating it must be for Sidney Crosby to always (and by always I really mean all the time) have Henrik Zetterberg in his face, constantly tearing his game to shreads. But seriously, if this is the best player in the world, he certainly isn't showing it in these finals.

Throughout the series, Crosby has been totally anihilated by Zetterberg. To be called the best in the world, in my book, you have to be a great two-way player, like Zetterberg and Datsyuk. Crosby is no way near those two, neither is Malkin, and it is made painfully clear in these finals.

The Penguins came out really strong early in the first period, only to totally lose it after going down 0-1 on a Detroit break-away orchestrated by the returning Pavel Datsyuk.

After that, the Pens were done. The defleated completely after one goal! In a post-game interview, the Penguin's captain said they had not played their best yada, yada... why didn't they try their very best in a Game 5 of a Stanley Cup Final? Beats me.

By the way, anyone still doubting the ability of Chris Osgood? No? Didn't think so.

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Best When It Counts

2009-06-01T17:18:00.002+02:00

It is very familiar. Two games into the Stanley Cup Final, it's Red Wings two Pittsburgh zip. Clearly, the Penguins have finally found their match. Again.

Henrik Zetterberg is proving how good he is when it really matters. The thicker his beard grows, the more he elevates his game. and by now, he is really amped up. Like the Anaheim Ducks, the Penguins have no answer for Hank's line that has shut down Sid the Kid. Who cares about the Art Ross Trophy?

Also, the Red Wings are getting goals from their ever so impressive supporting cast. Just like in Game 1, Justin Abdelkader provided that important 3-1 goal that sealed the win again for the red machine. And who would have guessed that Jonathan Ericsson completely shut down Evgeni Malkin? Boy, are the Red Wings glad they have the big Swede. As hard as it it may be to picture Detroit without Niclas Lidstrom, he won't be around forever.

I have to admit, before this series started, I had some doubt about the Red Wings beating the Penguins. Just like last year, the Pens looked so good. They were so solid. And just like last year, I feel a little stupid when realizing just how good this Detroit team is. Marc-André Fleury was great last night and he kept his team in the game until Abdelkader's goal, but they still couldn't find a way to outsmart, outmuscle or outplay the Wings.

I won't be surprised if Pittsburgh finds a way to beat Detroit once the series returns to Pennsylvania. I will be surprised if the Wings don't steal serve from the Pens and heads back to the Motor City with a 3-1 lead.

Big Red Machine Rolls over Ducks

2009-05-15T03:41:00.005+02:00

What a game! It was everything you want a Game 7 to be. I admit, it was a little too close for comfort toward the end but the Red Wings prevailed and were able to push back a very good Ducks team. As usual, Henrik Zetterberg was nothing short of a giant on the ice when it mattered the most. Pavel Datsyuk, who's been a no show up until Game 7, worked hard, and, altough he didn't score, he did contribute a lot more than he did earlier on in the series.

Except for the fans down in Disneyland, I think pretty much everyone else was hoping for a Detroit - Chicago Conference Final. It really has the making of a classic. Now, there will be at least one original six team in the Stanley Cup Finals.

Should the Bruins win Game 7, it will be the first time since 1978-79, when Montreal beat the Rangers 4-1, that two original six teams meet in the final.

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This Year's Mule

2009-05-05T11:55:00.004+02:00

We're into the second round of the playoffs and I am trying to see some early, or semi-early, signs of a playoff winner. Almost without any exceptions, a Stanley Cup winner will include one or more players who will rise well above their normal game providing that neccesary push on the way to cup fame.

This year, several contenders show no signs of this, including Detroit, Boston, and Pittsburgh.

Sure, Sidney Crosby leads all skaters in goals after his hat trick last night against Washington, but that's him playing on his normal level. Had it been Maxim Talbot or Petr Sykora scoring eight or nine tallies with Crosby and Malkin producing at their normal rate, it would have been a different ball game. But the supporting cast in Pittsburgh is not up to snuff and that's why they are being beaten by the Caps.

Last year, the Mule, or Johan Franzen as he is also known, was the the talk of the town. His scoring frenzy was a major factor the Red Wings went all the way. This year, there is no one, at least not yet. Detroit, however, have more problems than their secondary scoring. Their best players, Datsyuk, Zetterberg and Hossa haven't been their best players so far, and they really need to be.

For Boston, Tim Thomas has been great, but then again, he was all season long. The Bruins as a team are about even with Carolina and Thomas is matched by Cam Ward, who seems to be back in his 2006 form, which is a sign as good as any.

For the teams that do have players who have stepped up, those players have all been goalies. Jonas Hiller is turning in one solid performance after another, the last included turning away no less than 59 shots against the Wings.

Semyon Varlamov (he says he will change the spelling of his name to this because no one can get it right anyway) has people talking about Ken Dryden's breakthrough playoffs and that pretty much says it all.

So what about Vancouver and Chicago? Well, there are no real standouts in either of these two teams. It remains to be seen who will take the chance and seize the oppurtunity. One interesting fact is that the Canucks (1994) and the Blackhawks (1992) have waited almost as many years to revisit the Stanley Cup Finals. Also, Vancouver is the only team still in the playoffs without any previous cup winners on the roster. The Hawks have three.

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The Hart goes to...

2009-04-30T11:32:00.004+02:00

The finalists for the Hart Trophy have been annonced. To no one's surprise, two of them are Evgeni Malkin and Alexander Ovechkin. The trio is rounded out by Detroit's puck wiz, Pavel Datsyuk.

Like always this award is misintepeded. The Hart is constantly refered to as "given to the league's MVP", when it actually is supposed to be given to the player most valuable to his team. The team MVPs have always been overlooked, most notably during the 80's when Wayne Gretzky held on to it for eight straight seasons during 1980 to 1987.

Malkin gets the Art Ross Trophy for having the most points, Ovechkin recives the Rocket Richard Trophy for his 56 goals this season, and Datsyuk is arguably the best allround player in the NHL, but neither would get the Hart, not if I'm handing out the trophies.

My Hart Trophy goes to Zach Parise for being the most valuable player on a New Jersey Devils team playing most of this season without their star goalie, Martin Brodeur.

Special mentioning goes to Steve Mason for backstopping the Columbus Blue Jackets to their first ever Stanley Cup playoffs.

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Sharks blown out of water by Ducks

2009-04-28T11:03:00.005+02:00

"The President's Trophy winners will make the process short with the some what struggling Ducks. Who ever the Ducks put in net, likely Jonas Hiller, will find it hard to match Evgenij Nabokov. Thornton, Boyle, Marleau, Setoguchi, Blake, Moen... there is no running out of resons why these Sharks couldn't go all the way to cup final this year. Sharks in five."

This is why I love this game. Not the fact that I was completely off the mark on this one, but because anything can happen in playoff hockey and there are no sure bets. While the Sharks deflated completely and collectively as a team, the Ducks rose to the occasion and stepped up, Jonas Hiller most of all.

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Replacing the King?

2009-04-27T17:46:00.004+02:00

As many expected, the New York Rangers, altough leading the Capitals 3-1, were unable to put away the Washington Capitals, and now find themselves facing a Game 7 in Washington. While momentum is clearly with the Caps heading in to the deciding game, this is by no means over. However, I see two major problems that the Blueshirts will have to solve if they are going to have any chance of advancing to the next round.

The first is Henrik Lundqvist. Though he was the biggest reason the Rangers were up 3-1 in the series to begin with, he is now a major factor why the series is tied. Most experts agree, the King will have to find his groove or the Rangers' season will be over faster than Sean Avery can dish out an offensive slur.

The second problem also involves Lundqvist. For two straight games he has been replaced by Stephen Valiquette, who has been nothing but solid between the same pipes. Should Ludqvist be given a third chance in this, what could be, final game? I don't think so. Since the Rangers can't score, the only way they will win this is if they score just one goal (I'm sure they can muster that in a desperate situation like a Game 7) and Lundqvist stands on his head, and I honestly can't see that happen. So, if Lundqvist is given the start, gives up three or four goals before being replaced again there is no way back for the Blueshirts. Can they afford to take that chance or will they give Valiquette the chance to win the series for them and perhaps take them even further in the playoffs? I don't think John Tortorella has the guts to do that.

This leads me to another thing...

Bruce Budreau moved his number one goaltender after just one loss against the Rangers. Ok, Jose Theodore isn't, by any messure, the goaltender Henrik Lundqvist is even on a good day (he used to be), but still. Since then, Simeon Varlamov has been terrific while shutting out the Rangers on two occasions.

TSN's Dave Hodge gave the Capitals a thumbs down for the way they used, or didn't use Theodore. I would like to give Mr Hodge a thumbs down. What Budreau did was have the guts to do something drastic before it was too late, and it paid off, at least so far. I'm sure Jose Theodore knows how it works.

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Bunyan, Osgood and humilated Habs

2009-04-24T01:41:00.007+02:00

Some first round thoughts...

What kind of fertilizer is Paul Mara using on his face? We're only four games into the first round and the Ranger defenseman already looks like Paul Bunyan! Perhaps Mara's head start on his playoff-beard is what tips the scale in favor of the Rangers, who knows, but they are one win away from eliminating the high-scoring Caps.

Alex Ovechkin and Mike Green were two major reasons why the Caps were favorites to move past the New York Rangers. Instead, they, along with Jose Theodore, are major factors why the Caps are facing elimination when the series return to D.C. for Game 5.

***

The Detroit Red Wings are up 3-0 against playoff debutants Columbus. No long trips to Disneyland must feel pretty good right about now.

Chris Osgood has been as solid as he said he would be. Big surprise!

***

Being eliminated and humiliated by the Boston Bruins (I just have to point out that I had the Bruins in 4), of all teams, and in the first round was probably not what the Montreal Canadiens had in mind for their big centennial year. I say they have no one but them selves to blame for it. The whole centennial circus has gotten way out of hand and it has added unnecessary pressure on the team. I understand one hundred years as a club must be celebrated, but the way the Canadiens thought it should be commemorated is just rediculous. They have milked this thing througout the season by having countless different celebrations on game nights and, personally, I am not surprised it ended the way it did.

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PREDICTION FOR THE FIRST ROUND

2009-04-15T15:08:00.007+02:00

The Stanley Cup playoffs are just around the corner so here is my firt blog post since Febuary 19. I figure, what way to better cement my playoff picks than to post them here on the blog. Can't go back on it if it's in writing, so here they are. I just hope my predictions come closer than Maggie the monkey's picks over at TSN.

Boston vs. Montreal (Bruins in 4)

Like everybody else, I will have to go with the outstanding Bruins simply because they are offensively better as well as defensively. However, the biggest difference between these two teams is solid goaltending. The Bruins have it, the Habs don't. This will also be my only sweep (there has to be at least one sweep in a first round, right?)

Washington vs. NY Rangers (Rangers in 6)

I'm going to go out on a limb here and pick the Rangers, but I will admit this match-up is perhaps the most difficult one to predict (like it's any easier predicting any of the other seven series). While the Blueshirts can't score, the Caps can't keep the puck out of their own net. In the playoffs, however, the latter one is usually a bigger problem. Lundqvist will have to stand on his head against Washington's amped up offense.

New Jersey vs. Carolina (Devils in 7)

Yes, the Hurricanes have shown crazy form lately, but I think Martin Brodeur, along with scoring machine Zach Parise, will be the one tipping this series in favour of the Devils.

Pittsburgh vs. Philadelphia (Flyers in 7)

This has certainly has the promise of an awesome series. Even though the Penguins really picked up the pace down the stretch, I don't see any clear favorite here. Mike Richards is just as good as last year and Jeff Carter is much better. Like always, it will come down to who has the hottest goaltender. Philadelphia will have their revenge.

San Jose vs. Anaheim (Sharks in 5)

The President's Trophy winners will make the process short with the some what struggling Ducks. Who ever the Ducks put in net, likely Jonas Hiller, will find it hard to match Evgenij Nabokov. Thornton, Boyle, Marleau, Setoguchi, Blake, Moen... there is no running out of resons why these Sharks couldn't go all the way to cup finale this year.

Detroit vs. Columbus (Red Wings in 5)

It must be said, Steve Mason or not, the Wings couldn't be happier about the fact that they don't have to travel to west coast to face Anaheim. But then again, not only is the terrific rookie goalie a threat, he is by far the biggest obstacle the Wings will have to overcome. Playoff experience will favor Detroit. Question is: Where does Osgood stand?

Vancouver vs. St. Louis (Canucks in 6)

In recent playoffs I have always gone against the Canucks, simply because they haven't been a very good team in the post season. Against the Blues, however, I will have to predict in favor of the Canucks. Chris Mason is a good goalie, and without him the Blues wouldn't be here in the first place, but Roberto Luongo is better. The pressure is on the Sedin twins to show they can deliver in the playoffs as well.

Chicago vs. Calgary (Hawks in 6)

The injury-plagued Flames will have their hands full trying to control the young guns leading the Chicago offense. Like always, the hopes of the Calgary fans weigh heavlily on the shoulders of Miikka Kiprusoff and Jarome Iginla. Khabibulin or Huet in net for Chicago?

Let the show begin!

RANGERS SLIPPING

2009-02-19T01:33:00.002+01:00

Earlier this season, the New York Rangers looked solid on top of the eastern conference, now they have slipped to number eight and are dangerously close to missing the playoffs. Anyone surprised? I didn't think so. The blueshirts have returned to their all too familiar inconsistant ways.

When scored upon, they get nervous and lose. When they win, they fail to generate momentum from the success and ultimately lose again. At their best they are a good team, not a great team, but at their worst they are awful. To be a great team, your worst has to be a lot better. When you can still win while performing at you lowest level you're on the right way.

So what is it about the Rangers that make them so inconsistant?

In my opinion, it's the organization. Over the years they have failed to create a solid foundation for the team to lean on. Take one look at a team like the Detroit Red Wings and you realize their success comes from years of solid draft choices, wise transfers, and a commitment to keep and maintaining the core of players that form the team in the long run. The Rangers don't have a Nicklas Lidstrom or a Pavel Datsyuk. But those two aren't just great individual players, they are also products of the Detroit system, they have been shaped, like all other skater who joins the red machine, to fit the program. The Rangers have Henrik Lundqvist, but that's not enough when the entire team and the organization lack direction. There is no Ranger system for players to fit into. Players come and go. In the early 90's, those who did, the core of the Edmonton Oilers' golden era, were good enough to win the Stanley Cup. That sure seems like a lifetima ago now.

Shanahan's Back!

2009-01-20T15:10:00.003+01:00

After being away from hockey for more than eight months, Brendan Shanahan returned last night when his New Jersey Devils visited the Nashville Predators. In his long awaited comeback game with the Devils, the team that picked Shanahan second overall in the 1987 draft (behind only Pierre Turgeon), he wasted no time scoring his first goal. The Devils had no problem rolling past the Preds 3-1 and Shanahan could have notched at least one more goal.

One can't help compare his successful return to the less triuphant comeback of Mats Sundin. They have both spent more than eight months off the ice, but Sundin is still, after a handful of games, searching for his old touch. And, while Sundin joined a losing Canucks team that just keeps on losing, Shanahan came aboard a team that had five straight wins.

The thing that baffles me is the fact that Brendan Shanahan played last night's game without have practiced much with the team. I can't wait to see how the season turns out for this future Hall of famer.

Something Crosby Can't Do

2008-12-30T10:30:00.004+01:00

Worst Shootout Percentage:
Patrice Bergeron, C, Boston (0-for-5)
Sidney Crosby, C, Pittsburgh (0-for-4)
Miroslav Satan, RW, Pittsburgh (0-for-4)

This is pretty interesting. Why can't Crosby score in a shootout? Obviously, the other two's lack of notching in a shootout is equaly mysterious.

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AND THE CIRCUS LEAFS TOWN...

2008-12-19T11:20:00.004+01:00

The Mats Sundin circus is finally over as the big Swede decides to join the Vancouver Canucks. I admit it, I was sure Markus Naslund had convinced his friend that the Garden is the greatest place to wind down your career, but I guess money talks more than Naslund. In the end the New York Rangers couldn't match the Canuck's big offer.

In his column for ESPN, Scott Burnside, who isn't very impressed with Sundin's career or possibly just pissed off that left Toronto, wrote the following.

"In all his time in the NHL, Sundin, 37, has managed to appear in zero Stanley Cup finals games. He has won no major awards. He was part of Sweden's gold-medal team in the 2006 Torino Olympics. But the Vancouver Canucks are likely paying him a prorated salary of $10 million to play in the NHL, not on the big ice surface of a once-every-four-years tournament."

Scott also wrote that Sundin is a fine hockey player, but the fact that he has never stepped up in the playoffs seems to overshadow the good things in his career. Mats Sundin is not Mark Messier, not many players, if any, are. Messier was an exceptional player and leader, the likes of we will most likely never see again. But is Sundin a good leader? Yes. Did he play on a crap team all these years? Yes.

When the Maple Leafs lose it is Mats Sundin's fault, yet when the Detroit Red Wings won the Stanley Cup yearlier this year no one claimed this was Nicklas Lidstrom's doing. Don't get me wrong, I think Lidstrom is one of the best skaters to ever lace up, but he is also the captain of a great team. I would actually suggest that these two captains (although Sundin is no longer wears the C) are quite similar in their style of leadership, simply by leading by example in showing a tremendous work ethic.

Of course Mats Sundin's accomplishments would rank higher had he won trophies and the occational cup along the road of his otherwise impressive career, I can't help but sense a somewhat bitter tone in Burnside's critique. Was Sundin wrong to refuse to waive his no-trade clause last season? Perhaps. I admit it seems strange now as he joins a team halfway through the season because he feels they have a shot at the cup, which is exactly what he refused to do back then. On the other hand, this was the first time in his NHL career that he could choose where to play. Marian Hossa was in the same situation prior to this season and he also recieved massive critisism for his choice. I think a lot of people fail to realize how much it means to these players not to feel like a commodity.

I am just glad this whole thing is over.

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CLASH OF THE TITANS

2008-12-19T01:35:00.004+01:00

The Western Conference showdown between Detroit and San Jose is just minutes away and I can't help but feel that this could be the game of the season. The Boston Bruins will have to excuse me. This is the game most hockey fans have been waiting for since a while back. The Sharks have been devestatingly good so far while the Wings, even though they they aren't far behind in the standings, still have some work to do.

How will it turn out? My gut says Detroit, Henrik Zetterberg scores the winner.

Here we go!

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AVERY NO LONGER A STAR

2008-12-15T11:27:00.006+01:00

The six-game suspension of Sean Avery is over, but the forward will not be returning to the Dallas Stars. In an interview, co-general manager, Brett Hull said, "Sean needs to focus on his own well-being while the Stars hockey team must focus on playing hockey and competing for a playoff spot."

Is it just me or does that sound like Avery is recovering from a serious injury or illness rather than just coming to terms with having been a bad boy? I can totally understand that the Stars don't want the controvertial player back in their line-up, but don't make it sound like you're doing this for his sake.

Until now I thought Avery was just a victim of his own mouth being to quick to unleash uglies for his own good, but now I'm not so sure. Could it actually be that he wasn't happy in Texas, and when he suddenly realized trading his flashy Manhattan life style for more money wasn't such a great idea after all, and that he needed to do something to get him the heck out of there.

Now you probably say, "but who could possibly think a little speech about your "sloppy seconds" would get you thrown out of the organization?" Well, either this little press conference of his was just part of a bigger plan, or Sean Avery is savvier than we give him credit for. Perhaps Avery knew this was just enough fuel for the Stars to cut him loose. Perhaps he also knew that the double standard of the NHL would surface and condemn him hard enough for all everyone to join in their choir, stating it's ok to say anything you want on the ice, close enough for all kids whose parents happened to score rink-side seats, as long as you don't say it on TV.

I would not be surprised if the New York Rangers, only because they know what he can bring when he is happy with his situation, will take him back. And if not the Rangers, than surely some other team will take a chance on the guy. Either way, I am sure all hockey fans will follow the Sean Avery show with anticipation for the same reason that both fans and non-fans followed the Howard Stern show, just to see what he'd do next.

UNCLASSY MELROSE

2008-12-13T03:53:00.007+01:00

I like Barry Melrose as much as the next guy, and I also think he was a great coach, but perhaps he should never have come out of retirement in the first place. The comments he made about his former team, the Tampa Bay Lightning, suggest to me that he is back where he belongs, on ESPN radio, that is.

I'm not saying Melrose is wrong about Steven Stamkos not being ready for the NHL, I agree. However, I don't think it's a matter of size. Look at what Patrick Kane did in his rookie season in Chicago. Kane is certainly not a big guy but he is skilled and, more importantly, he is mentally strong, at least his extremely mature game suggests he is. This may be Stamkos biggest problem. He will be a good NHL player one day, he's just not there yet.

Hoping the team wouldn't win another game all season, that's just not a very classy comment and not one I expected from a guy like Melrose.

Now, is Barry Melrose to blame for the Lightning's lame start to this season? Perhaps. As the coach he is, at the very least, responsible for the team's results. Also, when looking for scapegoats, it is certainly easier to sack the coach rather than the whole team. Ultimately, it the players who have to perform to win and they haven't. The Tampa Bay roster is still full of players who are good enough to take them to the play-offs, but they aren't playing at the level they should be.

The very questionable former management traded this team to pieces getting rid of Brad Richards and Dan Boyle among others, but they really have to get over it and move forward. Focus on what you have rather than on what you use to have.

Buffalos and Penguins

2008-11-29T02:23:00.006+01:00

The Buffalo Sabres are hosting the Pittsburgh Penguins. With 11:32 left of the second period the score is 1-1.

Dave Andreychuck was a great player and it was nice to see the Buffalo Sabres honor him tonight.

Another great Sabre, Maxim Afinogenov, will likely never see his number retired, and I must say this guy is an enigma. There are few players who can skates as well as the 29-year old Russian, and he a a great hockey sense, yet his point production has always been sub par. Anyone who saw him play for Russia a few years ago would agree it is a mystery how he hasn't been the Sabres top point-scorer the last couple of seasons. So far tonight, he has been Buffalo's best player and he had a fantastic assist of the first goal. I hope he can keep this up throughout the season.

The old Buffalo jersey is among the most classic and best looking. So why, when they bring it back as a third jersey, do they ruin it by putting some stupid vertical line along the front and some ugly grey armpit on it? Who are designing jerseys nowadays? And Pittsburgh... they once fought the Bruins for the right to wear black, white and gold. Now they wear some sun-faded, sorry exuse for gold and it looks... sad.

Hated/Loved Lemieux Returns

2008-10-28T21:25:00.008+01:00

Well, Mats Sundin can't seem to make up his mind but at least someone is making a comeback. Former Conn Smythe winner, Claude Lemieux is, acording to himself, in the form of his life and is, at 43, ready to return to the league he left five years ago. While the news of his return will excite very few, it should come as a pleasant surprise to anyone trying to pick this seasons Stanley Cup winner as Lemieux, who has over 1,200 career games, seemed almost incapable of playing for a team not going all the way. He is one of only eight players to win the Stanley Cup with three different teams.

After hoisting the cup -and the Conn Smythe- with the Devils in 1995, Lemieux was traded to the New York Islanders, only to shipped off to Colorado, where he he wasted no time winning another (his third) cup. A few years later he returned to New Jersey where he won his forth cup and second as a Devil.

Acording to Lemieux, a few teams are interested in his services. And to be honest, if I were the GM for a cup-contending team I would definately sign him. I know the Dallas Stars did just that back in 2002 and it didn't pay off, but still. I hope he finds a team because I would like to see how this turns out. And seriously, who wouldn't like to see him return to Detroit ... with the Avs!

***

I wonder if it will take Sundin five years to make up his mind.

New Mark Zet

2008-10-20T11:21:00.003+02:00

Last year's play off MVP, Henrik Zetterberg, has his goal set for this season, he wants to be the second player after Håkan Loob to reach 50 goals. The classic mark should be within his reach, considering he notched 43 last season eventhough he missed 8 games because of injury.

What is remarkable, however, is the fact that only one Swedish player in history has ever reached the 50 goals mark! A few have been close, like Kent Nilsson, who in the 1980-81 season had 49 tallies with ten games to go. What happened? He just couldn't score one more. Peter Forsberg, Mats Sundin, Markus Näslund, Thomas Sandström, Mats Näslund, Daniel Alfredsson... the list could go on forever. Let's hope Zetterberg is the chosen one. I believe he could be.

Off to a late start

2008-10-20T11:07:00.003+02:00

I am well aware of my late start here, and those who followed - or just casually read my blog once or twice - the blog during last season probably though I had given it up by now. But, here we are, a few games into the new season and I couldn't resist it. I have decided to not write so much game commentary as I did before, you can all read those at tsn.ca or espn.com. I will instead try to just give you my personal thoughts on different stuff happening around the NHL.

CUP BACK IN HOCKEYTOWN

2008-06-05T04:29:00.006+02:00

The Detroit Red Wings are the 2008 Stanley Cup champions! They wrapped up the series against the Pittsburgh Penguins, winning it 4-2, after beating the Pens 3-2 at the Mellon Arena in Pittsburgh.

The best team during the regular season proved to be the best also in the playoffs. Eventhough Pittsburgh made a valiant effort to stave off elimination, the Wings were just too good in the end. I think we can all agree the Penguins have many great years ahead of them but this time the young Pens fell short against a wall of red.

Henrik Zetterberg recieved the Conn Smythe Trophy and it was well deserved. It wasn't the greatest or the prettiest goal Zetterberg has scored, but it certainly was one of the most important.

There is no doubt in my mind, Nicklas Lidstrom is the greatest Swedish player to ever lace up in the NHL. When he hoisted the cup, as the first European captain ever, I got goosebumps.

Chris Chelios is 46 years old, though he looks 35, and he won his first cup in 1986 with Montreal. How is that humanly possible!?

Some reflections from the game...

I had been waiting the whole game for Pavel Datsyuk to show some of his magic and with less than eight minutes left of the third period, there it was. A quick turn in the middle of the left circle and he had two Penguins going the wrong way. Beautiful!

When it comes to killing off time, few have mastered that art as well as Detroit veterans, Kris Draper and Kirk Maltby. Late in the third, well over a minute past as they battled in the corner in the offensive zone. Stuff like that wins you Stanley Cups.

This Detroit team is by far one of the best teams I have seen in decades. The way they played throughout the regular season and the playoffs is unlike anything I have seen, they were in a league of their own. They didn't have as many Hall of famers as the 2002 cupwinners but the team was just perfectly composed. And it's not like they are an old team. Except for Chelios, Draper, Chris Osgood, Lidstrom and a few others, there is an abundance of young talent ready to take over the Red Wings and fight for the cup for many years to come. But for now they will all just enjoy the moment.

I sure wish I were back in Michigan to enjoy it with them. Go Wings! By the way, Minnesota, this is the reason they call Detroit Hockeytown.

WINGS ON THEIR WAY

2008-06-05T03:31:00.003+02:00

What ever happened in Game 5, the Detroit Red Wings seem to have forgotten about it. After two periods they lead the Penguins by 2-1. So far they look less nervous than on Tuesday and more like the dominating team that they have been all season. As for Pittsburgh, they seem to have less jump than they did early in Game 5 when the rushed off to a 2-0 lead before the half-way mark of the first period. Perhaps the gravity of the situation has gotten the better of them.

At the end of the second period the Pens seemed to catch a second wind when Evgeni Malkin, who has finally regained some of the form that made him Pittsburgh's leading scorer during the regular season, scored his first goal of the finals. However, the Penguins will need to find more offense if they are to turn this around because Marc-Andre Fleury is not standing on his head tonight.

NO SHIFT IN MOMENTUM

2008-06-04T19:52:00.008+02:00

At the start of the season my blog collegue and also eminent sportswriter, Per Bjurman, predicted the Detroit Red Wings would play the Pittsburgh Penguins in the Stanley Cup finals and win. Until Game 5, I guess this was still true. However, in his latest article for Aftonbladet he writes that he is starting to have doubts about Detroit's abillity to close the bag on the Pens. Bjurman writes that Detroit has not been in a position where they have had to fight their way back in these playoffs and this is why their nerves crumbled in Game 4 and also why they're not favoured to win tonight at the Mellon Arena.

But the Red Wings aren't in a position where they have to come back. They still lead, though the lead has shrunk to 3-2, and still have a chance to oust the Penguins and snatch their forth cup in eleven years. In fact, this situation is not unlike the trouble they were in against Dallas, where they were up 3-0, then dropped two games only to crush the Stars in Game 6 in Texas. During that series many were also saying there was a momentum shift and that the Stars had figured out the Wings. That wasn't true, the Wings got themselves together and moved on, and it isn't true now. Also, the pressure is still on Pittsburgh to force a Game 7 and I wouldn't be surpriced if we'll see some nerves among the Penguins.

I agree the Red Wings will have to play their very best to beat the Pens tonight, but it's not like they have to be absolutely perfect or they will lose. I enjoyed the Bjorn Borg-likeness, and just like the king of Wimbledon, the Wings have to clear their minds of missed opportunities and just play Game 6 like any other game. Player by player, Detroit is the better team, far better than any of the teams the Pens rolled over out east, and the biggest reason Pittsburgh stole Game 4 was Marc-Andre Fleury who stood on his head, collecting 55 saves in the process. Should that game be played five more times Detroit would win four of them. If Fleury is as untouchable tonight, the Wings will be in trouble, but I expect the big red machine to make him work for it.

Either way I think we're all, diehard Wings fans excluded, happy we get to see more of the fantastic hockey these two teams have displayed so far.

JUST SECONDS AWAY

2008-06-04T01:18:00.003+02:00

35 seconds. Normally, it qualifies as just a brief moment. In a hockey game it can seem like forever, especially when your team is leading 3-2 in the third period and Lord Stanley's cup is being polished (they really should know better than to jinx it like that).

The Detroit Red Wings did look a little nervous in the first two periods, while Pittsburgh, jumping to a 2-0 lead in the first period, looked better than ever during this final series. Marc-Andre Fleury turned into a human wall making 55 saves - 24 of them in OT - as the Penguins avoided elimination at the Joe.

This game was a perfect example of desperation beating quality. Now, I'm not suggesting the Pens aren't a quality team, on the contrary, but last night they got a win out of sheer desperation.

Though the Wings would have wanted to win in front of their home crowd, and boy were they close, they will have no problem shaking this loss as they head for Pittsburgh for Game 6. They are simply too good to let this get the better of them.

So a 2-0 series lead for the Red Wings turned into a 3-2 lead and we finally got the close battle we all hoped for. Is a deciding Game 7 too much to hope for?

WINGS BACK IN FRONT

2008-06-03T04:24:00.005+02:00

In the first two periods, Pittsburgh seemed to have found a chink in the Detroit's perfect defensive armour. Now, fifteen minutes into the final period, the momentum has changed completely and Detroit, back in charge, are rolling. The Penguins will have to dig deep now if they are going to have a chance at getting back in this game. Should they do so, it would be an impressive feat since the Detroit defensive isn't giving them a lot of chances at all.

ONE WIN AWAY

2008-06-03T00:36:00.004+02:00

Tonight the march of the Penguins can come to a crashing halt as Pittsburgh is on the brink of elimination heading into Game 5 at Joe Louis Arena. I have to be honest, it seems unlikely the Detroit Red Wings will drop this one, they are simply too good. Many thought the Penguins had a decent shot at the cup this year, including the Pens themselves, but so far they haven't been close to getting the better of Detroit. Sure they got one game at the Mellon Arena, but that was more because of misstakes on the Wings part. In the other three games, Detroit have dominated the Pens and odds are they will do the same in Game 5.

The Pittsburgh Penguins went through the Eastern Conference like a juggernaut but has since hit a red brick wall. While Hart Trophy nominee, Evgeni Malkin, has been a dissapointment for Pittsburgh through out the finals, Selke Trophy nominee, Henrik Zetterberg, has been a giant for the Wings. On a team that has no real flaws he has been a difference maker. Though Sidney Crosby hasn't been terrible, at least not in Games 3 and 4, he has been outplayed and outsmarted by Zetterberg who has been everywhere on the ice, dominating the offense as well as the defense. The 5 on 3 they killed off in Game 4 was some of the sweatiest hockey I have ever seen. Most agree, including the Detroit players, Henrik Zetterberg should win the Conn Smythe. But first the Red Wings have to beat the Peguins one more time. But make no mistake, it won't be easy. The Penguins are a desperate bunch right now.

WINGS STILL CONFIDENT

2008-05-31T13:50:00.004+02:00

Detroit netcrasher, Tomas Holmstrom, seems to have made a speedy recovery and is likely playing in Game 4 in Pittsburgh. The Red Wings are looking to take a 3-1 lead in the series so they can clinch it back in Motown. The Penguins, however, did seem to slip back into their winning playoff mode after coach Michel Therrien switched the lines back to the old order.

Johan Franzen looked hot in his comeback after sitting out six games and I wouldn't be surprised if he adds a couple more tallys tonight.

It is interesting how much less disapointed the Wings seemed after losing Game 3 than they did losing twice to the Dallas Stars in the conference finals. To me that just speaks volumes of how confident they are in their ability to go all the way. Johan Franzen even told reporters it would have been less fun for the hockeyfans had they taken a 3-0 lead. Let's hope that comment doesn't come back to bite the Mule in the ass.

***

On a totally different note, the Boston Celtics (people in Beantown have had a lot to be happy about since the Pats lost in the Super Bowl) beat the Detroit Pistons to advance to the NBA finals for the first time since 1987, which is also the last time they faced off with the Los Angeles Lakers for the World Championship. Well, after twenty one long years these two classic teams, who both have had extensive dynasties over the years, they finally meet again. Being a Laker fan ever since I first saw Fletch in the mid eighties, I'm of course hoping the purple and yellow get to lift the trophy for the first time in six years. Go Kobe!

A GROWN MAN'S GAME

2008-05-26T17:33:00.002+02:00

The Pittsburgh Penguins aren't enjoying all of the luxuries of the Stanley Cup finals. The team is staying in a hotel with no less than five 5-star restaurants. These, however, are owned by a gaming commission, since there is also a casino at the hotel, which of course excludes anyone under 21 from eating there. I'm not sure where Sidney Crosby and Jordan Staal are eating, perhaps they have to order room service.

RETURN OF THE MULE

2008-05-26T15:41:00.002+02:00

Watch out all Penguins, the Mule is back!

The one they call the Mule, Johan Franzen, has finally been cleared to return to the playoffs. Still tied for the scoring lead, even though he has sat out six straight games, he is a welcome addition to the Detroit line-up. I'm not saying that because the Red Wings are lacking anything up front, on the contrary. However, the Pittsburgh Penguins have their hands full trying to solve the Wings solid defense so to them Franzen's return is all but positive.

I wonder what kind of odds they give on the Mule scoring in Game 2.

***

As expected, veteran Gary Roberts returns to the line-up for Pittsburgh. Just one year ago, as the Ottawa Senators rolled past the Penguins in the playoffs, John Paddock told Roberts he should have been with them instead. The Senators had offered Roberts a contract but the veteran ultimately chose Pittsburgh. I doubt he regrets that decicion today.

THE DOMINATING RED

2008-05-25T13:20:00.003+02:00

The Pittsburgh Penguins didn't get off the best of starts in last night's Game 1 against the Detroit Red Wings. Goalie, Marc-Andre Fleury, stumbled and fell as he entered the ice and moments later the PA announcer introduced the Pens' captain as Steven Crosby! An innocent slip of the tounge? I doubt it. Great stuff!

***

After his team was handed a crushing 4-0, Pittsburgh coach, Michel Therrien, said it was their worst performance yet in these playoffs but that it taught his team a lesson going into Game 2. That is sort of true. The Penguins did recieve a lesson, only it was given to them by the dominating Red Wings.

Experience is key in a cup final and the Wings have it in boatloads. The talented but inexperienced Pens don't have a whole lot of it at all and it showed. Why the immensely experienced Gary Roberts was a healthy scratch I have no idea, but I am fairly certain he will play in Game 2 and that he will show his young teammates what they have to do, that is to not back down.

***

Once again Tomas Holmstrom was called for goaltender interference, even though he was outside the crease and he barely, if at all, touched Marc-Andre Fleury with the stick. Like one of the Wings said, "Had it been any other Detroit player, there'd been no call on thet play." I sure hope the officials will sit down and disscuss this problem in the summer because this is getting rediculous. The interference calling is anything but consistant. In fact, the only thing that is consistant is how Tomas Holmstrom plays his game.

***

Even for a talented team, such as the Pittsburgh Penguins, it must be frustrating playing against a solid defense like the Red Wings. In a sea of red the opponent isn't given any room to create any real chances. The fact that Detroit keeps getting scoring support from other lines than the first doesn't make things any easier for the Penguins.

The first line, led by Henrik Zetterberg did a great job against the Crosby line, while Niklas Kronwall was solid once again delivering his usual hits. The open-ice hit on Ryan Malone was a beauty.

LOOKS LIKE A DOUBLE SWEEP

2008-05-14T20:01:00.005+02:00

I am sitting here watching the quarter final between Sweden and Czech Republic and, even though it is exciting (of course it is, I'm Swedish), I can't help but think how slow this game is compared to what is going on south of the border. At times during Game 3 in Dallas, the Red Wings seemed to be moving at fast-forward speed in the offensive zone. Needless to say, said Red Wing players were Datsyuk and Zetterberg.

Tonight, 2 am here, the "Red Army" will look to finish off the Dallas Stars and punch their ticket to the Stanley Cup finals for the first time since 2002, when they beat the Carolina Hurricanes for their third cup triumph in ten seasons.

The Pittsburgh Penguins keep marching and are now only one game away from sweeping the Philadelphia Flyers. Not to take anything away from the Pens, they have been great, but it is painfully evident how important Kimmo Timonen is to the Flyers. Even if they can get it together enough to take Game 4, I can't really see them come back from a 3-0 deficit. The Penguins are way to good.

I am pretty sure most people are just waiting for the Wings and Pens finish their sweeps already so they can enjoy a Stanley Cup final between the two best teams in the NHL, and who can blame them. Datsyuk and Zetterberg against Crosby and Malkin. What a classic series it could be. By the way, has it ever happened before, that both conference finals have ended in sweeps? To be honest, I can hardly wait myself.

THE GREAT OZ STEALS GAME 2

2008-05-11T14:01:00.004+02:00

"The great Oz has spoken", was heard from the announcer at Joe Louis Arena after the Detroit Red Wings had beaten the Dallas Stars 2-1 and taken a 2-0 lead in the series. They weren't half as dominant as they were in Game 1, in fact Dallas was the dominating team for most of the second and final period. Chris Osgood was the difference in this one as he remains solid while going 8-0 in these playoffs.

Has anyone noticed how Henrik Zetterberg almost sound like a Canadian? How aboot that. Last night he, yet again, showed what a dominating force he is. He had one tally and was a constant offensive threat in the Dallas zone.

And what about Pavel Datsyuk? I'm am really beginning to believe this guy is the second coming of Sergei Fedorov. He has a way of making his opponents look really stupid and the crowd loves it. At one point late in the game he dropped the puck to Kronwall, at least that is what the Dallas forward (I think it was Ribeiro) and everyone else in the building thought, only to kick it back to himself as he skated past Ribeiro and out of the Red Wings zone. Pure magic!

Speaking of Mike Ribeiro, there is no excuse for what his slashing across the chest of Chris Osgood. This will of course heat things up between the two teams heading in to Game 3 in Dallas, but it will also diminish the Stars' chances of getting back into the series as they will most likely play without Ribeiro. The Stars also lost Jere Lehtinen who went off with a leg injury.

Marty Turco will be glad to go back to Dallas for Game 3 as his winless streak at Joe Louis Arena grew to 11 games.

FINAL FOUR

2008-05-06T11:22:00.003+02:00

The 'final four' matchups are a real treat any way you look at. Out west, Dallas, who had a tough time getting to the Western Conference finals almost blowing a 3-0 lead to the San Jose Sharks, will face the Detroit Red Wings for the first time in the playoffs since 1998. The Stars upset both the reigning Stanley Cup champions, Anaheim, and the Sharks, a team many thought would go all the way this year.

Detroit, who had a somewhat less bumpy ride getting here, are my favorite to advance to the finals. Sure, the Stars will prove a more difficult obstacle than the Avs were, but ultimately I have to go with what I still consider the best team in the playoffs. I think the key is that the Wings are finally getting sufficient scoring from their second line to take some load off the the dominant first line. On their way through the playoffs, Johan Franzen has been breaking several of Gordie Howe's old records while also picking up some early condsideration for a Conne Smythe.

The Stars have yet to face a team in the playoffs boasting the kind of scoring power the Wings possess. Also, Chris Osgood still haven't lost a game in these playoffs and is 6-0 since taking over from Dominik Hasek.

Pittsburgh seems to be everyones favorite to move on to the finals from the Eastern Conference. I'm not so sure. To do so they will have to dismiss the surging Philadelphia Flyers and that is no easy task.

The Flyers don't have the kind of young talent the Pens have in Sidney Crosby and Evgeni Malkin, but they have a solid group of hardworking players who play tough and with determination and heart on every shift. They have so far dismatled the fast and talented Washington Capitals and the Eastern winners, Montreal, and it looks like they're just getting started.

The Flyers also have Martin Biron, who has been spectacular so far, Daniel Briere, who has really stepped up to prove all doubters wrong, and R J Umberger, who has turned in to a virtual scoring machine.

The Penguins need more from captain Sidney Crosby than what he showed in Game 5 against the NY Rangers. On the other hand, whenever Crosby turns in a mediocre performance, Malkin is there to dominate the game. This guy is unhuman at times.

The 'Battle of Pennsylvania' will just that, a battle, and I think Philadelphia will be victorious in the end. Also, I would not be surprised if it goes to a Game 7.

* * *

Lastly, I want to say how pathetic I think it is the way the crowd at Mellon Arena boed Jaromir Jagr during Game 5. This guy spent almost eleven seasons with their team and helped them win two Stanley Cups and, I don't care what reason they say they have, they have no right to give him anything but applaudes. They should be ashamed.

THE COMEBACK FLYERS

2008-05-04T17:33:00.006+02:00

Once again the Philadelphia Flyers showed what a tremendous comeback team they are. The Montreal Canadiens seemed to have the game under control as they led the Flyers 3-1 in the second period, but then, this Flyers team did what they have done so many times during this season, they erased the deficit to win the game 6-4 and clinching the series in five games. Who ever they face in the conference finals have their work cut out for them.

The fact that Philadelphia has reached the Eastern Conference finals, for the first time since 1997, is amazing considering this team finished dead last just one season ago. GM, Paul Holmgren, and coach, John Stevens, have done a fantastic job with the club.

Pittsburgh host the NY Rangers tonight at the Mellon Arena as they have a chance to eliminate the Blueshirts and go on to fight the Flyers for a place in the Stanley Cup Finals.

* * *

I did pick Montreal as Stanley Cup champions and that didn't happen. I was so looking forward to a Red Wings - Canadiens final. However, the Habs did surprise a lot of people this season and it was great to see and hear the crowd at Bell Centre cheer and applaude their team during the final minutes of Game 5 against the Flyers.

Rookie goalie, Carey Price, did seem rattled in round two of the playoffs, but remember that this kid is just twenty years old. He has many years to shine ahead of him, and he will shine pleanty, trust me.

IT'S A SWEEP IN DENVER

2008-05-02T06:18:00.007+02:00

It's a blow-out win for Detroit as they sweep Colorado. The Detroit Red Wings were just too good for this Avs team. This series was a physical mismatch from the start. There were just too many injuries for the Avs to have a fair shot at upsetting the bast team in the NHL. 8-2 doesn't reflect the Avs' effort. They did put up a good fight, but Detroit are just an unbeatable juggernaut right now.

I sure hope Joe Sakic will be back next year because this is no way to end such a fantastic carreer.

I am finding it increasingly difficult to keep my eyes open so it's back to bed for me. Good night!

THE SWEEP GETS CLOSER

2008-05-02T05:22:00.005+02:00

What can be said of Henrik Zetterberg that hasn't already been said? Not a lot. This guy is such an awesome offensive force and the fact that both he and Pavel Datsyuk are nominated for the Selke Trophy, as the leagues best defensive forward, says it all about him being the total package.

6-1 with less than five minutes left to play in the second period and the Red Wings are playing like the game was tied at 1-1. They are totally commited and focused. They let Nashville into the series in round one and they are determined to not give Colorado the same opportunity.

The Mule scores his third of the night, his second hat-trick of the playoffs, as the Detroit takes a 7-1 lead.

WINGS COME OUT FLYING

2008-05-02T04:55:00.003+02:00

It is do or die in Denver but the Colorado Avalanche didn't get the greates of starts as they try to stave off elimination against the Detroit Red Wings in Game 4 at the Pepsi Center. The Red Wings got of to a flying start as Michael Samuelsson scored what looked like a soft goal on Jose Theodore.

The Avs did get an equalizer from Tyler Arnason, but the Wings took back the lead late in the first when Henrik Zetterberg served Tomas Holmstrom with a perfect pass. With a minute left of the period the Avs gave up the puck in the neutral zone and red-hot Johan "The Mule" Franzen did what he's been doing all playoffs, he scored.

It's 5:12 am here, the second period just started and Peter Budaj has come on for Theodore. Here we go!

Just as I was about to post this, Henrik Zetterberg scored on a rocket as the Wings were on the power play.

RANGERS LIVE TO FIGHT ANOTHER NIGHT

2008-05-02T04:17:00.003+02:00

The New York Rangers finally did what they couldn't do in the first three games, and what the Ottawa Senators never could, that is to beat the seemingly invincible Pittsburgh Penguins. The question is if they can do like the 1942 Maple Leafs and the 1975 NY Islanders and mount a history-making comeback from 0-3. I doubt it, though it seems more likely the Rangers would than the San Jose Sharks or the Colorado Avalanche.

THE GOALIE CONUNDRUM

2008-04-30T13:57:00.003+02:00

Having a great goalie is what gives every team a chance at winning. The Colorado Avalanche had that during the second half of the regular season and in the first round of the playoffs against the Minnesota Wild. Against the difficult Red Wings they have lacked that important component. Jose Theodore have been battling the flue as of late and haven't been the same thus he hasn't been that lock you need in net.

Of course Theodore is not entirely to blame for the Avs being down 3-0 in the series. Instead, blame Joel Quenneville for not giving the other players that fair chance att winning, which they probably would get if Peter Budaj would start in net. Quenneville keeps saying that he wants Theodore to play because he got them there. True, Jose Theodore's incredible goaltending was a huge factor against the Wild, but that is not a good reason to play him when he's playing not so great. With all the injuries this Avs team has suffered they need him to be a difference maker.

Quenneville answered any goaltending questions with "this [Theodore] is a guy that they have to count on. You win with your best and you lose with your best.

What does that tell Peter Budaj, who has come on for Theodore twice in this series and been solid? In my opinion, you play with who is hot. Quenneville's decision to stick with his number one cost the Avs two games and put them in a near impossible situation. This is no time to avoid hurting someone's feelings and Theodore knows this, he's been in the league long enough to know it's about who is hot and who is not. Starting Budaj in Game 2 could have given the Avs a better shot at tying the series at 1-1.

In Game 3 Theodore had 31 saves so maybe he has gotten over his bad spell. Question is if it's too late for the Avs as a team to do the same. No team since the 1975 NY Islanders has erased a 3-0 deficit to advance from a playoff series.

I hate to say it, but this Colorado team does not look like a history-making team.

ARE WE GETTING ROBBED?

2008-04-30T11:14:00.002+02:00

Penguins are marching, they are now 7-0 so far in the playoffs, and the Rangers seem powerless to stop them. The Dallas Stars have got the Sharks totally figured out and outsmarted and also lead 3-0 in their series and the Detroit Red Wings, much thanks to a certain Mule, are just steamrolling over the oft-injured Colorado Avalanche. Three out of four series in the second round could stop at just twelve games which means we're missing out on at least four or five games, theoretically, we could be missing as much as nine games but it is very rare that three out of four series goes to seven games. On the other hand, isn't it just as unlikely that many series end in sweeps? It is, and I don't think we'll see three sweeps.

I'm gonna say Rangers in Game 4 and that the series ends 4-1. I think Dallas will take Game 4 and sweep the lame Sharks. Colorado will win Game 4 on sheer determination but ultimately the Wings will prove to tough of an obstacle. It would have been cool to see these two teams battle it out while the Avs were at full power but all these injuries are finally taking its toll on them.

Thankfully the Montreal-Philadelphia series is providing everything I want from a great playoff series, two equal teams bringing out the very best in each other while fighting it out to the very end (hopefully a Game 7), great individual performances (Martin Biron), suckerpunch-controversies and, ultimately, coaches arguing about it.

* * *

The Pens look unstoppable as they try to become the first team to go 8-0 in the playoffs since the seven-game series was introduced in 1987. Two other teams, Montreal in 1989 and NY Rangers in 1994, managed to go 7-0 and both teams went to the Stanley Cup finals.

TOOTHLESS SHARKS

2008-04-28T08:59:00.004+02:00

The San Jose Sharks dropped a 2-1 lead in the 3rd period to lose Game 2 against the Dallas Stars 5-2. They now have to dig themselves out of a hole as they head to Dallas for Game 3. And while the key players, such as Mike Modano, Marty Turco, Brad Richards and Mike Ribeiro, have all stepped it up in the playoffs, the key players for the Sharks have done the exact opposite. Evgeni Nabokov is a favourite to win the Vezina Trophy for his impressive season where he lead in wins, but against the Stars he hasn't really impressed anyone.

But though the Sharks definately need more from their star goalie, Nabokov is far from their biggest problem. When asked if he needed more from his captain, a very irritated Ron Wilson responded, "No." Then he walked off mubeling something about all the questions always being so negative. Sharks captain, Patrick Marleau, kept up his sub-par performance from Game 1, where he jumped over a shot instead of blocking it. That is not acceptable in the playoffs, if ever.

I realize that I predicted San Jose would beat Calgary in seven games to advance to the second round but, with the facts in hand I am surprised they pulled it off considering how poorly they played. Against Dallas they haven't stepped it up an inch and I would not be surprised if this series ends in Dallas.

AS GOOD AS IT GETS

2008-04-27T11:28:00.009+02:00

The Philadelphia Flyers held on to beat Montreal and tie the second round series and there is no doubt in my mind what so ever, this is where the best hockey on the planet is being played. It is too bad only one of these two teams can advance to the Eastern Conference finals. All we can do is enjoy this while it lasts and hope it does so for a full seven games. This, ladies and gentlemen, is as good as it gets.

The Candiens missed the oppurtunity to go 2-0 in the series against the Flyers much because of Martin Biron's stellar play last night at the Bell Centre. Game 2 of the series was just as close as the first one, only this time the Flyers managed to hold on for the win. Biron took 34 of the 36 shots he faced giving the Flyers a 4-2 win. R J Umberger scored twice and red hot Daniel Briere got one as well. But, even though the Flyers played a really solid game, beating the Habs in everything, it was Biron who made the biggest difference.

The Habs certainly aren't happy with splitting the two first games in their own building so expect them to want to do at least the same once the series turn to the city of brotherly love. The Flyers, though probably quite content with getting one game in Montreal, surely must feel they let Game 1 slip away and that they should be heading home leading the series 2-0.

Habs goalie, Carey Price, rated his own performance a 6 out of 10, stating he wasn't lucky with the bounces, but I'm not sure that many would agree with him. Coach Guy Carbonneau just said that great players create their own luck. Price gets a lot of praise for always looking so relaxed and composed in the net, but that means nothing if you don't stop the pucks. Sometimes his relaxed style borders on nonchalance like in Game 2 where he had major difficulties with his glove hand. I don't doubt that Price will get the start in Game 3 in Philadelphia because great players also bounce back.

Red Wings too much for Avs

2008-04-27T03:03:00.004+02:00

What looked like an exciting revival of the rivalry between the Detroit Red Wings and the Colorado Avalanche is looking more like a cat's fight with a mouse, after the mouse is out cold.

Colorado, again without Peter Forsberg, had absolutely nothing going for them as they got creamed by a Red Wings team that is looking more and more like a real cup contender. Chris Osgood keeps showing us he's still got what it takes to go all the way and Johan Franzen is playing like a man posessed, leading the playoffs is scoring after his hat-trick.

I really though the Avs would put up more of a fight even without Forsberg, but the shaky play by Jose Theodore has to be coach Quenneville's biggest worry right now. Peter Budaj replaced the former Hart Trophy winner for the second straight game and was great, giving up just one goal. If Budaj, who will surely get the start in Game 3 in Denver, can keep playing like this it will give the Avs an oppurtunity to get back into this series. If not, this series will be over in four.

No beards

2008-04-26T21:19:00.002+02:00

It seems a lot of players aren't taking the playoff beard seriously. While watching a pre-game interview with Colorado forward Ryan Smyth, my first thought was how surprisingly clean-shaven he was. After six games against the Minnesota Wild in the first round and one game into the second round series against Detroit you would think he'd sport a full beard by now.

During the warm-up, like always, a slimey octopus found its way down to the ice, only this time a Colorado player picked it up and threw it back into the stands! Hillarious!

Rivalry off to a cool start

2008-04-25T10:25:00.004+02:00

The Colorado Avalanche played most of the regular season without Peter Forsberg, yet after the loss to the Red Wings in Game 1 coach Joel Quenneville said that, though his absence was felt, they did learn how to play without him down the stretch. That says a lot about the impact Forsberg has on this team. If he doesn't return for Game 2 on Saturday, the Avs will most likely find themselves in a 0-2 hole heading back to Denver.

Quenneville also has to decide who to play in goal in Game 2. Either go with Peter Budaj, who came on for Theodore and shut the door on the Wings or stay with his number one, Theodore, if he is well by then.

* * *

I can't understand why coaches keep blaming the refs after a loss. Philadelphia coach, John Stevens sat at the podium and sulked over the eledged high-stick by Alexei Kovalev, which, to his dismay, was ruled a goal. There is no point to this, they won't change the call after the game and it certainly does little to help his team. The Flyers lost because they blew a 2-0 lead due to weak defense.

Neither team got a lot of chances at the man-advantage, but both teams took advantage when they got that oppurtunity. Be sure, the rest of this series will be as tight as this first game.

Round two... here we go!

2008-04-24T15:21:00.004+02:00

It's time for round two of the Stanley Cup playoffs and so far it has been just awesome. The second round is just as difficult to predict as the first but here are some thoughts.

I can't stress enough how excited I am that the Detroit Red Wings are facing the Colorado Avalanche again. It has been a while since the rivalry's heyday but a handful of players still remain on both rosters. Those who weren't there the last time around, in 2002, will definately get a taste of the old days the minute this series kicks off. The Avs lost all four games against the Wings this season, but they did it without many of their top forwards, including Joe Sakic, Ryan Smyth, and Paul Statsny. The Colorado team that brushed off Minnesota in six games is a completely different team. I would not be surprised if it takes seven games to separate these two teams, which would be only the second time that has happened. I think Detroit has the edge here, but not because they went 4-0 against the Avs, because of their defense, Osgood and their scoring depth, they basically have no real weaknesses. Theodore played great in the first round but Minnesota is not the offensive powerhouse that Detroit is. The Avs also rely heavily on the presence of Peter Forsberg. With him they usually win, without him they tend to lose.

A lot of experts seem to think this is finally the year of the Shark. I don't. I can't see the San Jose Sharks getting past Dallas, a team brimming with confidence after dismissing the defending Stanley Cup champions in six games. Dallas is a far tougher opponent than the Flames, a team that the Sharks had surprising difficulties getting passed. San Jose gave up a 3-0 lead in Game 3 and when they had the chance to close the series in Game 6 they appeared lame and uninterested. Dallas, on the other hand, played solid for most of their first-round series against Anaheim and unless the Sharks can play more consistent, the Stars will play in their first conference final since 2000.

I have said that I think the Montreal Candiens will play in the Stanley Cup finals and I am not changing that prediction now. I never thought the Bruins would force the Habs to a Game 7 and the Canadiens' powerplay didn't look as sharp as it did in the regular season, eventhough they did connect on two PP chances in Game 7. These were the two best teams on the man-advantage during the regular season so special teams is key to winning the series. The Canadiens also need Alexei Kovalev to be the dominationg force he was during the season. The Flyers got better and better as the series against Washington progressed and they are entering the second round confident they have what it takes to eliminate the eastern conference winners. Montreal native Martin Biron played a great series and is now the undisputed number one goalie. He will have to keep up that level in the second round. Philadelphia is also heading into round two with a Daniel Briere on fire. The Habs will have to find a way to stop him or their cup chase ends here.

I honestly didn't think the New York Rangers would get this far. If I remember correctly I said 4-1 to New Jersey, but now they are here and they did look very good against a very midiocre Devils team. Pittsburgh will be a far greater obstacle than their Hudson neighbors. Defensively I would go with the Rangers, offensively the Penguins have the upper hand, and in goal Henrik Lundqvist has the edge over Marc-Andre Fleury. A long rest didn't do the Ottawa Senators a lot of good before the finals last year and it doesn't favour the Pens now either. I actually think the Rangers will emerge triumphant from this series and Sean Avery, who thrives against the Penguins, will probably play a big part in it, as will Vezina nominee Ludqvist.

Dream match up in second round

2008-04-23T08:38:00.003+02:00

The Washington Capitals have spent most of the regular season and the first round of the playoffs coming back and they have captured a lot of fans doing it. Unfortunately, in the first round they faced an even better comeback team in the Philadelphia Flyers. After losing two straight games, missing a chance to clinch the series at home in Game 6, the Flyers finally figured out how to get the better of Alex Ovechkin and his band of young talent.

The San Jose Sharks looked uninspired in Game 6 but pulled them selves together and put out the Flames in Game 7. They will never admit it but, I think the Dallas Stars are quite happy to play the Sharks rather than Calgary.

It is extremely rare that a team returns from a 3-1 defecit and it didn't happen now either. The Boston Bruins fell short in Game 7 just like the Caps. This gives us a second round that is a virtual wet dream and also very hard to predict (like always when it comes to pure guessing), so I'm not going to predict any scores.

Montreal-Philadelphia
Pittsburgh-NY Rangers
Detroit-Colorado
San Jose-Dallas

I have to ponder this one for a bit and come back with my thoughts on the second round. But if you have any predictions, please share with a comment!

Crunch time

2008-04-21T20:49:00.003+02:00

The fact that the Montreal Canadiens won all eight games against the Boston Bruins during the regular season means very little in the playoffs, this is especially true now that their first round series has come down to a deciding Game 7. The Habs, heavy favourites at the start of the series, have seen a 2-0 slip away and at the chance of wrapping things up at 3-1 they lost two straight. Young Carey Price gave up five goals in each of those games, which were his first consecutive losses since being called up from the minors in February. Momentum is clearly with the B's even if stats still favour the Canadiens. The Bruins have never won a series in which they trailed 3-1. On the other hand, this is the first time they have forced a Game 7 in that situation. Be that as it may, I'm going to stick with my original pick. This will be the ultimate test to see if Price can perform at crunch time, I think he can.

* * *

The Philadelphia Flyers don't have their backs against the wall, at leaste not yet. Though the Washington Capitals took home Game 5 and avoided elimination, the Flyers still have two shots at clinching their first playoff series since 2004. Ovechkin didn't have any goals or assists in Game 5 but he did play perhaps his best game in the post season. Question is if the Caps can win the next one as well without his contribution the scoresheet. The Flyers will have to do without forward Mike Knuble, but they are more than familiar to playing without their stars, they have gotten through most of the season without several of them. I'm not changing my pick here either, Philadelphia look way too tough and if they lose tonight they will win in Game 7. There is something special about these Flyers and, much like those Canadiens of 1993, they will surprise a lot of people on their way through these playoffs.

* * *

Nice to see that Henrik Lundqvist got nominated for the Vezina Trophy. Early on in the season he carried the non-scoring Rangers on his back and, even though he lost his touch around the halfway pointone point, a late push by the Rangers saw him return to his old form. The nomination is his third in a row. Will the third time be the charm for The King?

The other two nominees are Martin Brodeur, who will try to win his fifth Vezina, and Evgeni Nabokov who posted a league leading 46 wins this season and was third in the league with a 2.14 goals-against-average and tied for third with six shutouts. Lundqvist, who despite his mid-season struggle, posted a 2.23 goals-against-average and a .912 save percentage, also led the league with 10 shutouts.

I would have to say that Nabokov looks like the favourite to win his first trophy as the best goalie in the NHL.

* * *

The Flyers - Capitals game just started so I'll have to wrap this up now.

The Bruins - Habs series

2008-04-14T09:18:00.003+02:00

Phil:

About game 2 of the B's-Habs series, that's exactly what the Bruins did. They came out of the gates hitting everything in red. A ferocious forecheck was put into works too but to no avail. They are simply snake-bitten by the dreaded Habs this year. Hopefully, the tide will turn for the better in three hours from now.

Apparently, Kessel was a healthy scratch(!)last night. I'm still trying to figure out why Wideman wasn't dressed.

Niklas:

Well, my friend, the Boston Bruins continued to forecheck and play the body hard against the Habs in Game 3 and it payed off. I guess this is they only way they can beat Montreal and, like Marc Savard said, "We don't have a lot of dancers over here, we're a lunch-bucket team." That comment hits the nail on the head, you have to accept what you are and play the game there after.

Unfortunately, this leaves a great player like Phil Kessel on the outside. He was a healthy scratch for the second game in a row.

Phil:

Savard is right, at least in comparison to the Canadiens. But this is the most talented Bruins team I've seen in years. I know this series could be wrapped up in a couple of nights but the Bruins are not supposed to be in the playoffs this year in the first place. And if this is a preview of what's the come in the next two years, I'll be laughing.

Wideman, Krejci, and Lucic are awesome. The latter is the most exciting skater to hit Beantown since Sinden stole Neely from Vancouver. Lucic is a bigger and "badder" Bruin as a 19-year old than Joe Thornton ever was. No pun intended though. We'll see if Julien still thinks Kessel is too soft tomorrow. Allez Bruins de Boston!

Niklas:

I think you're right and, while I still think trading off Big Joe to San Jose is one of the dumbest moves in resent history, it will be interesting to see what the future holds for these young and talented Bruins. The future looks bright and the Montreal-Boston rivalry might take centre stage once again. Carey Price against Tukka Rask could be a classic. But for now, the Canadiens are too good for the B's.

First round thoughts

2008-04-11T20:30:00.002+02:00

Montreal had no trouble beating Boston in Game 1, but interestingly enough, they didn't do it through their league-leding power play. Boston tried so hard to not take a lot of unnesessary penalties that they instead gave the Habs too much room to score at even strength. I expect the Bruins to check a lot more and hit a lot more in Game 2.

* * *

Just a couple of hours left until the puck drops at the Verizon Center in Game 1 of the Washington - Philadelphia series. This is by far the most interesting of all match-ups in the first round. I did pick the Flyers to take home the series but I think the Caps will win round one. These Flyers are a comeback team and they will snatch Game 2 before the series goes to Philly. Did I say Flyers in 7? I think so. Wow, this is going to be a classic.

* * *

The Detroit Red Wings got some lucky bounces and managed to fight off the hot Nashville Predators and I think that was really important for the Wings to head into this playoffs not having to comeback early in the series. There is a lot of pressure in Motown and, eventhough the Wings took home the Presidents Trophy again, because of a couple of early round exits from the playoffs, a lot of fans don't expect them to go far. Can't be easy to be the best team so often.

* * *

I did pick Anaheim over Dallas and, eventhough it is just a guess because stats mean nothing in playoffs, I have to stand by that but losing at 0-4 at home is certainly not the start the Ducks had hoped for. I expected Dallas to give the Ducks a run for their money but this? No way! Turco was magnificent and the Stars made the home team pay on their power play. Interesting to see how Anaheim will play in Game 2. Expect Turco to sweat.

Wild Wild West

2008-04-10T00:11:00.002+02:00

Most experts agree the Western Conference is tougher than the East, and to a certain extent that is true. The teams are bigger, at least most of them, but most importantly, I think, the travel is longer. Anyway you look at it, the first round is really interesting. Eventhough the Red Wings once again took home the Presidents Trophy I see no clear cut favorite. I'm not sure what Maggie the monkey predicted, haven't had a chance to see any of the TSN experts picks yet, but here are mine for the first round of the Western Conference in the 2008 Stanley Cup playoffs. By the way, why is Maggie spinning a wheel? That's not predicting at all. Just let her point to the team she likes, a monkey could do that for sure.

San Jose 4 - Calgary 3

Sure the Sharks are favorites, but Calgary is a tough team to play and the will make sure any opponent knows it. If they go down, they will go down fighting and the Sharks, should they get past them, will be pretty banged up for second round.

* * *

Anaheim 4 - Dallas 2

When it counts, the champions will step it up a notch. If Sergei Zubov does not return to the Stars' lineup, fending off the Ducks will prove too big of a task. Marty Turco is also a key player, but he hasn't had much luck in the post season yet, though he was spectacular last year in the series against Vancouver, which the Stars lost.

* * *

Detroit 4 - Nashville 1

This could be a sweep but I think the Predators will get one at home. There is a lot of pressure on the Red Wings to go all the way but they have a lot of power up front and are better equipped defensively than last year. The only thing that may be cause for concern is the two previous cup winning veterans sharing duties in the net. That really sounds better than it is.

* * *

Colorado 4 - Minnesota 2

To most, the Minnesota Wild are favorites to advance victorious from this series, and they do have Colorado's numbers this season. But that means absolutely nothing in the playoffs, and if Peter Forsberg can stay healthy the Avs will not only get passed the Wild but will probably be an ugly surprise to a few other teams as well. Jose Theodore is also getting back to his old 2002 form and that will be crucial.

15 minutes before the playoffs begin. Ironically, after writing this, I am watching New Jersey - NY Rangers. Let's go!

Playoffs! Finally!

2008-04-08T10:49:00.005+02:00

It's finally here, the time we've been waiting for since September, the Stanley Cup playoffs. And boy, what a playoff this will be.

The first round is full of really exiting match-ups, the Flyers-Caps series is certainly one of them. Philadelphia will have to find a way to contain the Ovechkin-Backstrom combo, however, the Flyers have no shortage of offensive power themselves.

Philadelphia 4 - Washington 3

* * *

When the season started, I don't think the Boston Bruins were planning on making a serious push for the Cup, their plans lay a little further in the future, but now, here they are and it's anyone's game. Against conference winners Montreal, the Bruins can play without pressure, but ultimately, the Habs will be too much for them. But this will be a fun series to watch since these two Original Six teams have faced off against each other once or twice before in the playoffs.

Montreal 4 - Boston 2

* * *

The Rangers have the Devils' numbers, they won 7 of eight games this season against their Hudson rival. None of that matters now and I wouldn't be surprised if this series goes to seven games. The Brodeur-Lundqvist match-up could be future classic. However, this is where the neighbor across the river shows they're the better playoff team.

New Jersey 4 - NY Rangers 1

* * *

I think the Ottawa Senators are actually enjoying being the underdog all of a sudden. The Penguins are stronger and have more scoring depth than last year, but if Daniel Alfredsson and Mike Fisher are healthy, this series isn't as easy to predict as most seem to think. Can Malkin produce along side Crosby?

Pittsburgh 4 - Ottawa 2

* * *

That was the East. I'll do the West tomorrow.

By the way, I am as happy as everyone else about Washington making the playoffs, because it would really suck to see the big dance start without the leagues best player, Alex Ovechkin. And since they did, thanks to an impressive end of the season-winning streak, there is no way they can give the Hart Trophy to anyone else than the Caps' super-Russian.

Caps, Flyers and the Stanley Cup Champions

2008-04-02T10:54:00.005+02:00

This season has been a rollercoaster for the Philadelphia Flyers. At one time they were at the top of their division, then later on they went on a ten game losing stretch. They have had myriad of injuries plauge their roster through out the year yet, through it all, they have looked like a playoff team. Because if there is one thing the Flyers don't lack it's heart, they have an abundance of it and they will need it in the post season because my guess is the Flyers will face Pittsburgh in the first round.

Buffalo still have a shot at a playoff berth, however, the Flyers need only two points to keep the Sabres out. Washington, who have left to play Florida and Tampa Bay at home, probably have the easiest remaining schedule and will probably snag third place overall away from Carolina who are on a two-game losing streak. Washington beat Carolina last night and are 9-1-0 in their last ten games and are looking strong after a slow start to the season.

Montreal will end up second and play Ottawa in the first round and eventually go all the way to the Stanley Cup. And I say this despite the fact that the Habs just lost their captain, Saku Koivu, for the season because there are to major factors that favor Montreal. The most important is Carey Price who is in a similar situation to that of Patrick Roy in 1986 and the Canadiens do have a pretty good track record when it comes to rookie goalies. The second reason is the fact that they made no major aquisitions at the trade deadline which, as history shows, is something most previous Cup winners also did not. Another, less fact based reason, is the names on the roster. Whith names like Latendresse, Bouillon, Brisebois, and Lapierre how can not go all the way?

That, along with the fact that they possess the best powerplay record in the NHL, is why I think the Montreal Canadiens will take home the Stanley Cup.

Who will be around come playoff time?

2008-03-26T22:45:00.002+01:00

I just realized I hadn't posted anything for quite a while. In case I still have any readers left, I will try to better myself, which won't be hard with the playoffs just around the corner. Speaking of the playoffs, I will give you perdiction for round one.

If Evgeni Malkin can keep producing with Sidney Crosby returning, I think Pittsburgh will grab the number one spot in the East. Montreal, Carolina and New Jersey will round out the home-ice four while it looks like Ottawa, NY Rangers, Philadelphia and Boston will complete first round. There is still a chance Washington could snatch the 8th spot away from the slipping Bruins but I don't think they will. Boston got a big win against Toronto last night and they have a game in hand on the Caps. Buffalo, Toronto and Florida can start planning for next season.

Out west, the situation around the 8th spot is just as tight as it is in the east. Only Detroit and San Jose are set as 1st and 2nd. Calgary and Minnesota are still fighting for the top spot in the Northwest Division and home ice in the first round along with Anaheim. Slumping Dallas look pretty safe at 89 points, but unless they start winning they could find themselves in a very unpleasant situation. Colorado are still hanging on for dear life in the 8th spot with Nashville still pushing hard for a playoff berth. Vancouver are also on shaky ground in 7th but, though Edmonton are just a point behind the 9th placed Nashville, I think the Canucks will hang on to 7th and the Avs will face the Red Wings in the first round.

I will save the outcome of the first round for my next post, in which I will also give you my prediction for the Stanley Cup finals.

Good to be back!

2008-03-09T18:46:00.005+01:00

Take a look at the picture above, I think it's pretty awesome. I don't know what Joe Sakic is saying to Peter Forsberg, but I bet it is something along the line of "Good to have you back, buddy." And boy, are they glad. When Forsberg, who logged more ice time than any other Avs forward, turned up his game a notch in the third period, which led to two goals, it was nothing if not vintage Forsberg. I can't wait to see how well he'll play once he gets a few more games under his belt. After the game Ian Laperriere was very excited about how good Forsberg looked on the ice, and really, who wouldn't be. What team in the Western Conference will want to square off against the Avs in the first round?

Lidstrom, overrated greatness?

2008-03-08T12:29:00.004+01:00

In a resent post I talked about Nicklas Lidstrom and how his injured knee may hurt his chances at a sixth Norris Trophy. That article got a very interesting and somewhat controversial comment from my old friend and hockey connoisseur, Philip Arvidsson. Philip, a resident of Toronto for many years and currently living in the Netherlands, knows more about this sport than most so-called experts and it’s a pleasure to get his thoughts on the NHL as he is a frequent commentator on my blog. This comment fueled an interesting and heated debate that I decided to post here. I hope to be able to post more "face offs" like this in the future, but here is the premiere!

Philip
To me, Mr. Lidstrom is a complete enigma. The guy gets showered with perks by every hockey writer and critic and Norris Trophies seem to be fedexed to his home on a yearly basis. I've never really understood the Lidstrom hype but that does not mean I'm right.

Niklas
Unless I missunderstood, you say Lidstrom is being handed this trophy every year for lack of a better recipient, an argument I am having massive problems getting my head around. I think the fact that almost every player in the NHL agrees he is the best in the league speaks volumes.

Philip
As far my own humble opinion is concerned, I've never been sold on No. 5. I'm not saying he's not Norris Trophy material but five, six, or even seven of them? More than Ray Bourque, my favorite player? Due to that, coupled with the fact that every time I've seen Lidstrom play for Tre Kronor he appears utterly lost, I find him to be highly overrated.

Niklas
I know you are a Bruins fan (I think everyone reading this blog knows that) and so you favoring Bourque comes as no surprise. So you think the competition was so much tougher back in the day when he reigned?

Philip
I thought about this not too long ago and came up with a theory. Bourque "only" collected five Norris Trophies. But back in his heydays, there were 4 or 5 other "Ray Bourques" such as Brian Leetch, Scott Stevens, Al MacInnis, Chris Chelios, and Paul Coffey. They were all Bourque-caliber players, in their prime at the same time, competing against each other thus the Norris was passed around among them every season. To be fair, Maybe Lidstrom also belongs to that high echelon of d-men but he doesn't have to share the Norris with anyone simply because there are no other defenders of that magnitude in today's game.

Niklas
Perhaps, but does that mean you value Bobby Orr's career any less? He certainly did not have that many oponents of his own caliber. But ok, for arguements sake, Chris Pronger is on par with a guy like Scott Stevens and Scott Niedermayer is even better than his former captain (to me he was always a better leader than defensman). Paul Coffey was a forward in disguise, so out of the 4-5 you mentioned I will agree on only MacInnis, Chelios and Leetch. By the way, not long ago you were telling me what a great player Niedermayer was (which I agreed on).

Philip
I would say Niedermayer MAYBE, but that's it. And yes I also recall sticking up for Niedermayer after his Conn Smythe/Stanley Cup season because you ripped him with the following headline "who cares?". And by the way, Ray Bourque was robbed of the Hart Trophy in 1990!

Niklas
Agreed we're not seeing as large of a group of future Hall of famers today as we did back then, but like I said, how large was that group of top blueliners during Bobby Orr's heydays? Orr is still the best ever in my opinion, just like the lack of "Bourques" doesn't make Lidstrom any less great. About Bourque being robbed, sure, eventhough Gretzky, Lemieux and Messier all had great seasons, the Hart should probably have ended up in Beantown that year.

Philip
Hey, perhaps you're right. Like I said, I'm not sold on the guy but everyone else seems to be. This is why I came up with "theories" to find out if I was wrong and, if so, how wrong was I?

Niklas
Perhaps we will find out in the years to come, perhaps we won’t. We will just have to agree to disagree on the Red Wings captain. I hope you’re not too bummed about the Bruins blowout against Toronto the other night, as we both know, Boston is still a team for the playoffs and the Leafs are not. Be good until next time, Phil.

Philip
Oh, don't even get me started on the Leafs, we'll do them next time. 'Til then, blog hard!

Peter the Great returns

2008-03-06T18:28:00.005+01:00

If one didn't know better, one would assume this picture was taken a couple of years ago (I guess the new jersey sort of gives it away). But it isn't and I'm thrilled to see him back. The amazing thing about Peter Forsberg is that whenever he makes a comeback he is great, just like he was against Vancouver the other night. he hasn't played a game for almost a full year but you can't tell. Who else is capable of that?

Terry Frei, who writes for ESPN wrote, "He looked rusty, but certainly not out of place." Most other hockey experts agreed Forsberg looked all but rusty in his debut at Pepsi Center.

Peter Forsberg has taken a lot of abuse since he first started talking about making another comeback in the NHL. You would think all the experts should have learned by now that Peter Forsberg is not like most other players in the league, but no, most of them were ready to write him off once again. I will admit that when he pulled out of the LG Hockey games in November that was a close as I've ever been to believing his time as a player had come to an end. The fire in his eyes wasn't there. He looked done. Of course he wasn't and he probably knew even then.

Peter Forsberg's stats, which are great (especially his playoff numbers), don't even begin to tell how great a player he is. He has deep passion for the game, one that is rare, at least to that degree. His stubborness to never give up, his will to win and his hatred of losing makes him special and there few if any like him.

I consider myself very fortunate that I am ones again able to see him out there on the ice along side Joe Sakic and Milan Hejduk and I am sure many share my feelings.

Who is better than Lidstrom?

2008-03-03T22:12:00.007+01:00

In an article, ESPN's Scott Burnside suggests that Nicklas Lidstrom will probably be nominated for the Norris Trophy, but, because of his knee injury he may not win what would be his sixth in the category. As he points out, history shows that miss large parts of the season due to injury are less likely to win trophies, and while this may be true, not giving the Norris to Lidstrom would be outright rediculous. Why should he be punished for needing less time to be better than everyone else? To me, that makes absolutely no sense at all.

To be honest, the reason for Lidstrom not to win isn't even all that valid in this case. Lidstrom has played 62 games, which is just seven less than the league-leading 69 (five Dallas players) and six behind the best defenseman in that category. Despite this, he still leads all defensemen in points. Thats right, he leads. As if that isn't enough, he also leads the entire leauge in plus/minus with +39 and he is 4th in ice time among all skaters. Burnside mentions Pittsburgh's Sergei Gonchar and Habs blueliner Andrei Markov as possible candidates, but while Gonchar is still very inconsistent in my opinion and Markov is a minus player, I find that unlikely. Still, I wouldn't be very surprised if any of the two do appear on the ballot.

Not only do I still consider Lidstrom the strongest, if not the only, candidate for the Norris, I also think he should be seriously considered for the Hart Trophy as well. A few weeks ago coach Mike Babcock made a strong case for his captain as the league MVP simply because he was the best player on the best team in the league. It is true they were the best team, and when he was injured they fell apart. That says it all.

Even if he doesn't get any consideration for the Hart, which he most likely won't, if he doesn't get his sixth Norris Trophy, years from now people will look back and laugh at the NHL's foolishness.

* * *

Don't forget to check out more cool clips at ultimatehockeytv

Official's blunder costly for Wings

2008-03-01T15:31:00.006+01:00

While the Detroit Red Wings are having a tough time getting out of their funk, it doesn't exactly help when the puck just isn't bouncing your way, which it isn't for the Red Wings right now. Down by one late in the third period against the San Jose Sharks last night the puck hit the net above the glass behind Dominik Hasek's goal, dropped down in front of Devin Setoguchi who just tapped it in behind the perplexed Czech. Obviously, the goal should not have been allowed since the puck is dead when it hits the net, which the HD replay clearly showed it did.

The commentators couldn't believe their eyes, and neither could the Detroit crowd, when the goal was allowed. With four referees on the ice I think it's a catastrophy that none of them was watching the puck when it hit the net and then fell back onto the ice. Normally, if the puck does hit the net it is out of play, however, this is not a circumstance which is reviewable by the officials in Toronto, which is nothing less than rediculous.

The only good thing to come out of this embarrassing event is that it will never happen again, since the NHL will obviously have to change their criteria for reviewing plays, but try and tell that to the Red Wings.

* * *

Nice to see Cristobal Huet get a shutout in his first game with the Capitals. It will be interesting to see how this goalie situation developes in Washington. If Huet keeps playing like this, Olaf Kolzig will of course find himself stuck on the bench, which is something he certainly isn't accustomed to having played around 70 games of the seasons for the last ten years.

Gutsy move by Habs

2008-02-25T09:42:00.005+01:00

The Tuesday trade deadline came and went, and yes, we did see some pretty stunning moves. Mats Sundin exercised his right to stay with his Maple Leafs, in Denver people are preparing for Peter Forsberg's homecoming, and Brian Campbell has decided to test the waters out west with the Sharks. No huge surprises there, while Philadelphia were favorites among most to land the comebacking Forsberg, Colorado has obviously been frontrunners all along.

Sundin's choice to remain a Leaf did come as a surprise to some and while I believe the best way he could have helped his team was to move, I just don't think he is capable of looking at it that way. If he had chosen to leave for a cup contender he thinks fans would have seen him as a traitor or a captain that leaves his sinking ship. Now they are stuck with the captain while they're going down, only to see him leave the ship for retirement this summer. I'm not saying he will call it quits after this season, but, Toronto are stuck in the shit because he could.

I am wondering if Buffalo got a trade offer from Anaheim, because if they did, I can't really see why Campbell wouldn't want to go there since his chances of hoisting the cup later this spring would increase notably. But, San Jose is a contender and for them this is a great trade as Campbell is a potential Norris winner in the future.

Sundin, Forsberg and Campbell aside, the gutsiest move belongs to Bob Gainey and the Montreal Canadiens. They decided to trade goalie Cristobal Huet off to Washington for a 2009 second-round draft pick. With Huet gone, the job of starting goalie now falls on young Carey Price and, while the Habs have been lucky going with rookie goalies, you can't help but wonder if the Canadiens got enough for Huet. It is a good deal for Washington though. Olaf Kolzig isn't getting any younger and with all the young talent they sport they could afford to lose that 2:nd round pick. I will get back to that in a few years when we realize the Habs used that pick to grab some future Hall of Famer.

Don't forget to check out more NHL videos at http://www.ultimatehockey.tv/

Deadline getting closer

2008-02-22T12:03:00.004+01:00

I just realized it's been six days since I last published a post. Good thing no one is paying me towrite my blog. However, I can assure you that it is merely for lack of effort than anything else, I mean there has been stuff going on in the NHL with the trade deadline getting closer and all. So what's going to happen before Tuesday? Who is moving where and so on? I obviouslycan't go through all the teams, but I will give you some of my thoughts on the subject.

Sergei Fedorov rejoining his former team, the Detroit Red Wings seems like a lock to me. He is not making anyone happy in Columbus and has welcomed a return to Hockeytown on several occasions. Coach Mike Babcock also seems set on bringing back former Red Wing and three -time Stanley Cup champion Darren McCarty to add some needed grit.

The Toronto Maple leafs are a key player in this trade circus, but they are also a mess and it's hard to figure out what the heck is going on in that organization. They have several players they would like to move in order to rebuild the team for the future, but most of those guys sit on no trade clauses. A star like Mats Sundin would obviously generate a lot of new potential to the crippled Leafs, and he has said that he is commited to Toronto but if asked to move he would not object. And really, why would you stay somewhere you are not wanted? Some of the other players with no-trade clauses, among them Tomas Kaberle, have stated they will not move if asked because they are commited to stay and rebuild. While that to me is strange, you can't really blame them for taking advantage of something they and the team agreed on when signing those contracts. Trading captain Mats Sundin would be a monumental move for the Maple Leafs, but if the Boston Bruins could trade off Joe Thornton, also captain at the time, why can't the Leafs do the same. This move, as opposed to the Thornton trade, actually makes sense.

Buffalo's Brian Campbell isn't likely to resign with the Sabres and could end up with any number of teams, my guess is on either Detroit or New Jersey. Anaheim could also be a good fit for the talented defenseman and, as opposed to a guy like Rob Blake, a good long term option.

With Simon Gagne injured for the better part of this season, Daniel Briere a shadow of his form earlier in the season, Peter Forsberg's return looking more and more uncertain, and now also Mike Richards joining the already long injury list, the Philadelphia Flyers will want to strengthen their offense. The Flyers are definatly a team for the playoffs, but with nine straight losses they desperately have to find a way to start winning games again or else they will drop out of the playoff race. Marian Hossa could very well finish his season in the city of brotherly love.

Thrasher goalie Johan Hedberg is not the focus anyone's attention during these final days before the trade deadline, but he is available and would be a more than solid backup to any cup contender. He hasn't had the greatest of seasons, but we all know what he is capable of in a playoff. Detroit perhaps?

Return of the idiot

2008-02-15T11:24:00.003+01:00

When Chris Simon recieved his 30-game suspension I was sure he had played the last game of his career, I was even hoping we had seen the last of this idiot. Unfortunately, Ted Nolan and the Islanders aren't nearly as sensible as I had hoped. I honestly could care less about Simon and if he is playing hockey or not, but he does not belong in the NHL, period. Why are the Islanders giving this moron another chance? It is always sad to see an organization show no backbone what so ever.

"What I love most is playing hockey and when it gets taken away I realize how much I love it. Ted has always been a great help and a great supporter. My teammates were amazing. The whole organization kept checking in on me and seeing how I was doing and what I was up to. I really appreciated that"

Seriously, what is the deal? It sounds like he has been injured. The suspension was the eighth of his 15-year career. How many chances does this guy deserve? Simon also said he had learned from his mistakes. What!? Who honestly believes he has learned anything from this "mistake", as he puts it, and then why did it take eight of them for him to learn?

There is no such thing as a lifetime ban, maybe there should be for 6-8 time offenders like Chris Simon, but I think the New York Islanders had a great opurtunity... no they had an obligation to draw the line (I am trying hard not to swear now) and say enough is enough!

Eventhough I am no advocate of booing of any kind, I really hope this guy is booed at where ever he goes for the rest of his career.

As for the Islanders, they have won two straight games in their quest for a playoff spot, but in the end I doubt they will make it all the way. I actually hope they don't.

Babcock pushes for Lidstrom

2008-02-14T14:52:00.003+01:00

Detroit Red Wings coach Mike Babcock is lobbying for his captain Nicklas Lidstrom to win the Hart Trophy as league MVP. This is what he says,

"To me, I think he's the best player in the league. He does it right. He's the most consistent.
If you look at the top scoring defenceman in the league he's there. He's got better plus-minus than anyone else. I don't know how it cannot be him.''

I have to agree one hundred percent. It is easy to get blinded by Ovechkin's dominance and scoring, they same goes for Lecavalier, Iginla, and Zetterberg, but none of these players, not even the phenomenon Ovechkin, are as complete or as consistant as the five-time Norris winner. Every one who plays with him gets better, all of his defense partners in recent years have had career seasons next to him and he makes the whole team better. And like Babcock also says, if you are the best player on the league's best team, the one who holds it together, how can you not be the MVP. The fact that some people out east are still debating who should win the Norris Trophy is just laughable. I don't think Lidstrom will be the MVP, but I hope some will agree he is as clear a candidate as there ever was.

Read more of Babcocks lobbying here at the Red Wings Insider by Ansar Khan.

Hockey videos

2008-02-12T12:06:00.000+01:00

Not much to comment on today except that the Dallas Stars, after beating the Phoenix Coyotes 2-1, are looking like possible contenders in the Western Conference, which is getting harder and harder to predict.

Be sure to check out the affiliate hockey site http://www.ultimatehockey.tv/ for a bunch of cool hockey videos from NHL.

Toronto players among my readers

2008-02-11T11:21:00.001+01:00

I realize this post should have been written yesterday, but believe it or not, I was busy with other things than hockey during the weekend.

"I seriously do believe they are incapable of defeating the Detroit Red Wings, even on the best of days"

I was obviously dead wrong. However, I am now more convinced than ever that the Maple Leaf players are reading my blog. This is huge! If I keep writing them off they might even make the playoffs this season.

Jokes aside, after the painful loss in Toronto the Detroit Red Wings went home only to recieve their second straight loss, this time to the red hot Ducks from Anaheim. The Ducks seem to have regained some of last years form, which goes to show how much a 38 year old sniper from Finland can do, and are looking increasingly like strong cup contenders. Some of the eastern teams got a taste of their might (although they're just ducks nowadays) during their roadtrip and are for warned. So are the Wings.

Redden turns down trade offer

2008-02-09T10:47:00.000+01:00

I have never quite understood the true benefit of no-trade clauses, except that it protects the player. But it is just an economic protection, nothing else. When Ottawa's general manager Bryan Murray asked Wade Redden if he was willing to discuss a trade, since there was an outside interest in the defenseman, Redden said no stating he was still commited to the Senator's cup run. The defenseman, who will become an unrestricted free agent Jult 1st, is unlikely to return to the Sens next season.

In my opinion, this is quite a selfish act. Rumor has it the San Jose Sharks wanted to trade captain Patrick Marleau, who has been sub-par this season, for Redden. If that is true, then that would have been a great trade for the Sens, who struggled offensively without Daniel Alfredsson and Dany Heatley. Redden has been alright so far, but the Ottawa needs offense. A change of scenery might do Marleau good, and if so, he would definately boost the Sens' scoring depth.

But, this won't happen because Wade Redden choses to not be a team player. Mats Sundin, who also has a no-trade clause and is surrounded by more trading rumors than any other player in the NHL, says he has no plans what so ever to leave Toronto, but should they ask him to, of course he would. And really, why would you want to stay with an organization that doesn't want you?

Also, if it in fact was San Jose showing an interest in Redden then he would still be playing for a strong cup contender. It will be interesting to see how this unfolds, I'm sure we haven't heard the last of it. Will the Senators try to do a monster trade for Mats Sundin? I wouldn't rule it out.

Heatley returns ... and more

2008-02-08T11:17:00.000+01:00

Florida 4 - Ottawa 5
After missing 11 games with a shoulder injury, Dany Heatley was back in the Senator line-up and that seemed to do the trick for the struggling Sens. He scored twice and was assisted on both goals by Jason Spezza who had trouble carrying the heavy load in Heatley's and Daniel Alfredsson's absence. Ray Emery was back in goal and made 29 saves. After going 3-8-0 without Heatley, this could be a turning point for the reigning Conference Champions. Florida saw their three-game winning streak snapped and currently sit four points behind Boston, who hold the eight spot in the Eastern Conference.

Toronto 4 - Montreal 2
Perhaps the Toronto players read my blog and were pissed off, but likely they didn't. However, they did manage to double up on the neighboring Canadiens. But like Mats Sundin put it, "Any time Montreal and Toronto play it seems it doesn't matter where the teams are in the standings, it's a playoff type of atmosphere and you can feel it in the dressing room."

Anaheim 4 - NY Rangers 1
The Rangers can't seem to win against any Western teams this season, they are 0-7-2 so far. The Ducks seem to have found their scoring touch, after scoring just five goals during a six-game losing streak they have now have seven tallies in two games, both in the big apple (On Tuesday they beat the Islanders 3-0). With an average of 2.37 goals per game - second fewest in the NHL, the Ducks still have a lot of work to do. Perhaps the returning Teemu Salanne, who played in his second straight game, can help polish those numbers. The Rangers now find themselves five points behind division leading Philadelphia and Henrik Lundqvist needs to regain the form that helped carry the team during the start of the season. Right now back-up goalie Stephen Valiquette is ahead of him in both GAA (2.37) and Save PCT (.907). None of those numbers are particularly great so clearly the blue shirts aren't getting what they need from either of their netminders at the moment.

Los Angeles 5 - Detroit 3

The Vancouver Canucks aren't the rallying kind team, so far this season they are 1-19-1 when trailing after two periods. Against the Thrashers a rare comeback in the third to win by one. Roberto Luongo, who have struggled a bit since declining to participate in the All-Star game, had 27 saves and is perhaps finding his form ever so slowly, the Canucks sure need him to.

Vancouver 2 - Atlanta 1
When your team has a record streak going you don't want to play the worst team in the league, ask the Ottawa Senators or the Detroit Red Wings. Earlier this season Washington (then last in the conference) did what all other teams failed to do, they beat the Senators thus ending their winning streak. Last night Los Angeles, currently occupying the last spot in the NHL, did the same to the league-leading Red Wings. This was a bad loss for the Wings. Not only did they lose and miss the chance to tie the franchise record of nine straight wins, but they blew a two-goal lead in the final period to do it. This is most uncharacteristic of the Wings, who will want to forget this ever happened and move on.

NY Islanders 3 - Pittsburgh 4
In Pittsburgh the Mellon Arena was sold out for the 40th consecutive time, and people don't seem to mind their favorite, Sidney Crosby, is playing or not. The Pens are doing find in his absence (he missed his eighth straight game) and Evgeni Malkin, who had three assist against the struggling Isles, has eight points in his last three games. The Islanders have lost six straight and are 2-7-1 in their last ten games. They are also the lowest scoring bunch in the league so things are looking pretty bleak out on Long Island.

Tampa Bay 2 - Nashville 1
The Tampa Bay Lightning seem to think they still have a shot at a playoff berth. After earning their sixth straight road win, the team that use to be the worst in the league away are suddenly looking very comfortable away from the Sunshine State. I don't think they'll make it all the way to the post season, but, I admit, stranger things have happened.

Dallas 1 - Minnesota 0
When the Dallas Stars returned to their old hometown of St. Paul, Mike Modano was honoured by the Minnesota Wild for becoming the career American-born scoring leader. After the ceremony the Stars beat the Wild to earn their fifth straight win and their fith straight road win. They were recently turned down by Peter Forsberg so, though they sit quite comfortably in second place behind the confernce-leading Red Wings, they will be looking to strengthen their offense befor the trade dead-line.

Chicago 3 - Calgary 1
It seems Chicago goalie, Nikolai Khabibulin, has some sort of mental advantage over the Calgary Flames. In the 3-1 win he ended a personal losing streak of ten games and improved to 19-5-2 against the Flames. Both these teams are struggling offensively. The Blackhawks are 5-9-2 without Jonathan Toews, who missed his 16th game, and Flames forward, Alex Tanguay hasn't scored in his last eleven games. I think Calgary will try to trade him and more for Mats Sundin. I also think they will fail.

Columbus 2 - Phoenix 1
Who would have thought the Columbus Blue Jackets and the Phoenix Coyotes would be in a tight race for a playoff spot this spring? Not me. but they sure are, and with the win yesterday, the Jackets are within a point of the Coyotes and are still making life hard for the other teams with their strong defensive style and good netminding. The Coyotes have dropped two straight but are still very much in the race. Ilya Bryzgalov has earned a respectable 20 wins so far and is the key to the team making the playoffs for the first time since the 2001-02 season.

Just accept how bad you are!

2008-02-06T11:14:00.000+01:00

When the blow-out was completed in the third period the 19,430 at the Air Canada Centre cheered. The problem was they weren't cheering for the Toronto Maple Leafs but for the visiting Florida Panthers who had just embarraced the hometeam 8-0. Coach Paul Maurice said it felt far worse that the crowd applauded Florida than if they had booed the Leafs. In all fairness, you should be applauding the team that is doing something right on the ice, in this case the Panthers.

What still worries me about the Maple Leafs is that they don't seem to realize how bad they really are. The players keep saying stuff like "We were terrible today ... there are no excuses ... we can still turn this around, and ... on a good day we can beat anybody" This is true, on a really good day Toronto can beat almost any team in the NHL (I seriously do believe they are incapable of defeating the Detroit Red Wings, even on the best of days) but that is just not good enough for a team playing in the NHL. So do they really believe all that optimistic media mumbo-jumbo they throw at reporters after each game? I think they do. I think they still believe that they can turn it around, reach the playoffs, and possibly even win the Stanley Cup.

But isn't that a good thing, one might wonder. Yes and no. Yes, because believing you can win is often half of the effort. And no because if you are this bad it really doesn't matter. The Toronto Maple Leafs are in desperate need of rebuilding (by now I think we all agree on this) and it would be best if they realized their situation and, like a drug user or an alcoholic, accepted it because that is the first step to recovery.

The second step, since they have nothing left to lose, is to give every young and talented prospect a chance to show their stuff against the big boys in the NHL. Perhaps they will find something they didn't know they had.

The third step is trading Mats Sundin, not so that he will finally have a chance to win a cup (because we all know there is not place he would rather do that than in T.O.), but for the good of the team.

The fans in Toronto are faithful believers and it is time to give them something worth their effort.

Ottawa falling apart

2008-02-05T10:57:00.000+01:00

The Ottawa Senators still sit on top of the Northeast Divison, but now just three points ahead of the Montreal Canadiens. The team has been miserable lately and are 17-19 since their 15-2 start to the 2007-08 season. After a big loss to the Toronto Maple Leafs, head coach John Paddock called a crisis meeting with his players to try to prevent the team from falling apart even further.

The Sens have been playing without their captain, Daniel Alfredsson, for a while, he is recovering from hip injury, and Dany Heatley has missed 10 straight games. Considering how well the Sens played earlier in the season and also how great they were last season and through out the playoffs; who could have guess they of all teams would fall apart at the seams without a couple of key players? Yes, they have a very dominant first line, but they did get a lot of goals from other lines also. Since Heatley is a plus/minus machine, without him the Sens top line gets scored on a lot more. Jason Spezza, the only of the big three who is healthy, and Alfredsson both have great plus/minus stats but after them there is no one among the Ottawa forwards.

I don't to what extent the continuing problem with Ray Emery is affecting the situation, but I am pretty sure it isn't helping the team. It is unfortunate to have a goalie who isn't thinking team first, and I am sure John Paddock would be glad to get rid of Emery if only they weren't in the situation where they still need him.

It is clear, however, more of the Sens need to step up in the absence of Heatley and Alfredsson, especially Spezza. With those two out he is the guy the other players look to and he has to step it up and produce.

I am sure the Senators will get through this, and maybe they will be a stronger team for it, but I also think they have realized they are more vunerable than they thought. For that reason they remain a strong contender in the race to aquire Peter Forsberg.

All-Stars finally over

2008-01-30T21:16:00.000+01:00

I am not, nor have I ever been, a big fan of the NHL All-Star game and everything that surroundsit. This weekend of showboating does not exeplify what the game is about. I realize that is not its purpose, the All-Star game is simply a way to attract people to come see their favorite players show off and just have fun. This game is to hockey the Harlem Globetrotters are to basketball, those guys are fun to watch but it sure ain't basketball. A real hockey game means something, it's about playing hard and winning. It is full of emotions, both joy and anger, and everyone involved strive for the same goal at the end of the season, the Stanley Cup. So, I am glad the All-Star break is over and we can get back to business.

* * *

I'm thinking of placing a bet on the Bruins to win against Ottawa this Thursday. The Ottawa captain Daniel Alfredsson is day-to-day with a hip injury and the last time he was out the Senators fell apart. Alfie is the league leading scorer with 68 point and he will be missed. Should he play, my bet is of course off.

* * *

The Pittsburgh Penguins are facing the Atlanta Thrashers tonight and a show-down between Russians Ilya Kovalchuk and Evgeni Malkin is in the cards. The Pens have done ok so far with Sidney Crosby out of the line-up. In the first game after losing Crosby, Malkin showed right away that he was ready to carry a heavy load in his captain's absence. He needs to continue playing at the top of his game and players like Jordan Staal and Eric Christensen needs to step up. If they can do that, and if Ty Conklin can continue to shine in goal the Penguins will get through this just fine and also be a stronger team come the play offs.

Forsberg closer to comeback

2008-01-22T16:33:00.000+01:00

Peter Forsberg is back on ice, but his premiere skate wasn't at last nights MoDo practice. His first practice since leaving Team Sweden just before he was suposed to join them for Karjala Cup took place at MoDo's old arena late at night when everyone had gone home and the staff had locked up. On the ice he was joined by just his old friend Henrik Gradin.

This guy will never cease to amaze or surprise me. When he gave up his comeback last year I was closer than ever to believing retirement was upon one of the greatest hockey players ever. But it was not, he wasn't done. This guys doesn't know the meaning of the word quit, and I am greatful for it.

If everything goes as planned, Forsberg will continue practicing with MoDo before joining Team Sweden at LG Hockey Games. Then, at the trade deadline he will hopefully be joining one of the possible 30 teams wanting his services. According to himself he is in better shape than ever, and a healthy Peter Forsberg is still better than most players, at least on this planet.

The Philadelphia Flyers are still both very interested and hopeful. It seems fitting he should pick the team he feels he didn't give anywhere near his best during the one and a half seasons he played there. Of course that is just his own opinion. Everyone else knows that, even though he was injured a lot during his tenure with the Flyers, when he did play he was their best player.

Lately, with the return of Simon Gagne, the Flyers are looking more and more like a strong playoff team (they are 8-1-1 in their last 10 games). With Peter Forsberg, hungry to prove he isn't totally useless (again, his own words), back in the lineup the Flyers will become a strong Cup contender.

* * *

On a different note, the Toronto Maple Leafs fired John Ferguson Jr and replaced him with Cliff Fletcher, who was made interim general manger. One down, several to go.

Fighting sleep as Canucks fall short

2008-01-18T11:52:00.000+01:00

Sometimes, or rather most of the time, living in Sweden makes it really hard to follow the NHL, unless you are a night person. I'm not. A west-coast game starting at 7.00 pm airs at 4.00 am in Stockholm, which in my case makes it pretty much impossible watch since by that time I am sleeping like a bear around December. But even the games starting around 1.00 am are a challenge for me, and though this may sound sad to most people, around the end of the 1st period me and the sandman will be out of there.

Last night the Vancouver Canucks were in Motown taking on the league-leading Detroit Red Wings. This was not a game I wanted to miss. A win for Vancouver meant they would move into first place in their division, and for the Wings a win would end a three-game losing streak. It started at 1.30 am and I actually contemplated getting a few hours of sleep before it started, but instead I watched Entourage and 30 Rock. I drifted off sometime after Conan and didn't awake until the 3rd was on the way. It was already 2-2 and there would be no more scoring, much thanks to Roberto Luongo who was standing on his head while taking his Canucks to a shootout, he had 47 saves in total. Markus Naslund scored one for Vancouver in what was his 1,000th NHL game and Dan Cleary scored a deuce for the Wings, but of course I missed all that.

What I didn't miss was Hasek shutting down Trevor Linden, Alexander Edler and Taylor Pyatt to seal the win for the Wings. Henrik Zetterberg was the lone scorer in the shootout.

This Sunday the Boston Bruins will try to bounce back into winning mode as they take on the struggling New York Rangers at Madison Square Garden. The Rangers currently sit last in the Atlantic division and in 9th place in the Eastern conference, Boston are 8th with they same number of points as the Rangers.

Speaking of the Rangers; What's going on with them, or rather, what's going on with Jaromir Jagr? Is his poor goalscoring due to the simple fact that he is no longer the big star of the team. No doubt he ended up in the shadow of big acquisitions Chris Drury and Scott Gomez, and a guy like Jagr can't be too happy with that situation. So either give him some more attention, reassure him he is still the star or trade him somewhere and move on. My guess is the former super-Czech and two-time Stanley Cup winner will end up with either San Jose or Colorado. I do think it would be cool to see what he and Big Joe Thornton could do together. With the would-be 100 point scorer Joe Sakic injured the Avalanche also need a offensive boost to get that playoff spot. A Jagr in a new environment could provide just that. My gut says San Jose simply because they are no strangers to big gutsy moves.

When is it enough for the Leafs?

2008-01-13T13:52:00.001+01:00

The Toronto Maple Leafs headed back home after ending their Western Conference excursion with a 3-2 loss to the San Jose Sharks. It was their fifth consecutive loss and the sixth time they have blown a two-goal lead this season. A bunch of Maple Leafs team executives attended the game and there was no mistaking the look on John Ferguson Jr's face after the loss, it spoke volumes.

This has to be the end of something; it sure isn't the beginning of anything. Someone has to go and it needs to happen soon, and when I say soon I mean now. John Ferguson Jr would be the obvious choice for many, but there a major problems with getting rid of him. For one, there is no one to take his place. General Managers do not grow on trees, it takes a long time and a lot of work to become a GM. Names like Mark Messier and Steve Yzerman have come up, but except for being great former players with a lot of knowledge about the game, they don't really have what it takes to be general managers. They haven't spent years traveling all over the continent watching games scouting for talent, and that is what it takes, among other things. You have to do the legwork, like Ken Holland for example. He started as the western scout for the Detroit Red Wings in 1985. From there he held various positions within the organization, before being named general manager in 1997. So yes, in ten years Mark Messier may become a GM, but for now all those qualified for the job are taken.

On the other hand, time is short and changes need to be made immediately. A lot of people are calling for head coach Paul Maurice to be fired, and I think he will be the first to be scarified. Though the player material he has had to work with hasn't been great, I can't really say he has done a good job during his time with the Leafs. The players keep insisting they still have a shot at the playoffs, but in reality that ship has already sailed. I suggest they just ride out this season with assistant coach Keith Acton leading the team and instead focus on who will take over next season. Unfortunately Jacque Lamaire is tied up with the Minnesota Wild until 2009-2010. I would have loved to see a guy like him come in and turn things upside down in T.O.

The possible trade of captain Mats Sundin has been the focus of most Maple Leaf talk lately, and that is definitely a big piece of the puzzle. His departure could mark the beginning of a new Toronto; it will definitely be the end of an era. And this isn't like when Boston traded Ray Bourque off to Denver to win a cup, a task deemed impossible with those Bruins, this is about getting the pieces needed to rebuild the team from the ground. We have all seen what an early draft choice can get you. And while the Leafs can trade Sundin for one or more draft picks plus some players (it would arguably be a monumental trade), they are also risking finishing last this season, earning a first pick on their own, just by being the worst of the worst. It could be a good start.

As for the rest of the management, they should also consider their future in the club, president Richard Peddie in particular.

Captain Canada for a day

2008-01-08T19:22:00.000+01:00

Senators captain Daniel Alfredsson looked a little different during Monday's practice. He made good on a bet with team owner Eugene Melnyk by wearing a Team Canada jersey during one hour of the morning practice. This was the result of a friendly wager on the gold-medal game at the world junior hockey championships between Canada and Sweden.

His Ottawa teammates were very amused and Ray Emery said it looked like his captain was playing with a little more grit all of a sudden. Alfredsson, on the other hand, said he looked a little edgy and not as smooth as usual. Jason Spezza suggested that Alfredsson should switch nationality, becoming able to play for Canada at the 2010 Olympic games in Vancouver.

Ok, let's do it. But if we're going to give you Alfredsson, arguably one of Sweden's best players, we would need something valuable in return. A big name in return to play for Sweden would be logical (not that there is anything logical about trading Alfredsson off to Team Canada).

But logics aside, if we would actually go through with this trade and I could pick the player, I would take Dany Heatley. I know this may come as a surprise to some, but in my opinion Heatley is probably the only kind of player Sweden lacks. Sure, Lecavalier is awesome, but we have Zetterberg and he is just as good. Dany Heatley is hockey, there is no need to list stats here. He lives for it like few people on earth. He breathes the game and is the total package.

I am guessing my choice of player will get the Ottawa players to back off from the trade. They wouldn't give up Heatley, not even for Daniel Alfredsson. "Captain Canada" has left the building.

Forth straight for Canada

2008-01-06T11:32:00.000+01:00

Last night I was trying to follow Detroit's game against the Stars in Dallas, but that was easier said than done with the drama that unfolded on another channel, the final of the Junior World Champs. After a while of swithing back and forth between the channels I decided to stay with the juniors, or rather, I had to. That 3rd period was some of the sweatiest hockey I have ever seen.

The first two periods showed a dominating Canada while Sweden looked a little nervuos and disorganized. Heading in to the final period with a 2-0 lead, Canada looked certain to grab their forth straight title as world champions. However, Sweden weren't quite done and the fat lady was suddenly no where to be seen. I can't remember the last time I saw a team being as dominated as much as Canada was in these final 20 minutes. I would have to go back my earliest memories of Sweden getting humiliated by the Sovjet hockey machine in the early 80's.

Sweden made it 2-1 and the Canadian juniors looked increasingly nervous. As the period and the game entered the last shivering minutes there was no mistaking the fear in their eyes. I know what kind of pressure these boys are under from back home and the way Sweden was playing now, it seemed the game was slipping out of their hands.

With 38 seconds left it happened. Canada had been desperately trying to defend their lead for 20 minutes straight (I honestly can't remember they ever being in the offensive zone for more than 5 seconds), but in the end it wasn't enough. Sweden outshot Canada 14-3 and with Steve Mason down, Tomas Larsson trickled the puck into the net. Talk about drama!

About this time Detroit led Dallas 1-0.

The 20 minute OT started just like the 3rd period ended. Sweden dominated Canada, who seemed to have a lot of respect for their opponents after that unbelievable 3rd period. But Canada is not like most other teams. They have a way of winning even when they are outplayed. Nothing in that early stage of OT pointed to Canada, yet somehow Matt Halischuk beat Ehnroth (I'm still not sure how the Swedes could let him get through like that). It wasn't the pretties of goal, in fact none of Canadas goals against the Swedes were, but it won them the game and their forth straight title.

So, congratulations to Canada for a great tournament, but also, hats off to the Swedish boys for their valiant effort.

Winter Classic is here

2008-01-01T16:08:00.000+01:00

After months of hype the day has finally arrived for us to enjoy the NHL Winter Classic between the Buffalo Sabres and the Pittsburgh Penguins. In 2003, 57,167 people attended the Heritage Classic in Edmonton's Commonwealth Stadium, and this year 73,000 will fill Ralph Winston Stadium in Buffalo. It has been debated whether this game should be played or not, and if so, should it count as a regular season game or should it even be played as an All-Star game. It seems a lot of fans and hockey experts like the idea of playing outdoors, similar to the old pond games, while some think it is just a waste of time and, because the outdoor games are played in giant football stadiums, they little or nothing in common with the traditional way of playing pond or river hockey. Either way, there is no doubt a majority of the fans seem to enjoy this game, I for one think it is pretty cool as it shows a lighter side of pro sports where the players get to enjoy something fun and different without it having to be a stupid All-Star game that means nothing (now there is a total waste of time).

It looks like Buffalo will wear their more classic jersey, the one with the Buffalo and the two crossed sabres-logo. I do wish they would come to their senses and wear that logo all season long instead of this new futuristic buffalo logo that is just marginally better than the Edmonton Oilers new black oil dripping-logo.

Ty Conklin will guard the net for the Pens, making him the only player to play in both of the outdoor classics. In 2003 he was in goal for the Oilers against the Montreal Canadiens.

Henrik Tallinder will be the only Swede on the ice, and he said he would definately try to savour this moment and have fun. I think a lot of players feel like that, though this is still a regular game between two teams in desperate need of points. Buffalo will try to snap a three-game losing streak, while the Penguins, who are in 7th place, have won three straight wins. Buffalo just two points behind in 10th place.

Some of the players were hoping for some snow, so am I. Let it snow, let it snow, let it snow.

How can Tortorella still have a job in Tampa?

2007-12-30T00:34:00.000+01:00

I can't seem to get my head round the fact that John Tortorella still has a job in Tampa. The Tampa Bay Lightning are sinking like a stone and I can't really see that he is doing much to changethat fact. Today they were handed a 4-2 loss by the visiting Philadelphia Flyers, who seem to be getting out of their resent slump, and while Tortorella saw glimpes of great play, I saw a desperate team that has run out of ideas. Vincent Lecavalier is being worked way to hard, as he is on the ice for most part of all games, and he is getting little support from other forwards. Why does Tortorella not give a guy like Andreas Karlsson more ice time? He could easily be a second line centre if given a real chance. Instead Tortorella is letting talent go to waste on the bench, while Lecavalier, Prospal, and St. Louis are struggling to keep the team afloat. I hate to say it but it seems this coach seems to be out of ideas.

I guess you're given a lot more leeway once you have brought home the Stanley Cup.

A league of their own

2007-12-28T18:53:00.000+01:00

What to do about (aboot*) those damn Red Wings? This is what all the other teams must be asking them selves. After beating the Colorado Avalanche 4-2 in Denver the Wings now leads the league in goals scored (137) and goals against (84). They have led in scoring pretty much since the start of the season, but for quite a while they were 3rd behind the New York Rangers and the St. Louis Blues in goals against. Since the Rangers have been slumping lately and Henrik Lundqvist haven't been him self, the Wings are now first.

It has been discussed whether Detroit needs to add a quality forward to their roster for more scoring depth come the playoffs. Well, they have played three games without scoring leader Henrik Zetterberg (back) and top line winger Tomas Holmstrom (groin) and they have won all of them. Obviously Pavel Datsyuk is carrying a heavy load in their absence, but some of the younger players are also stepping up to fill the void. Valtteri Filppula has four goals in the last two games and is a great example of young talented Red Wing players expected to take another step during this season. So, I am not so sure they need anything. Right now they are looking awfully good.