The View has never been one to shy away from playoff predictions, and as we get set for the start of the Stanley Cup playoffs, it is time to roll out those fearless prognostications. So without further ado, here we go:
Western Conference
Chicago (1) vs. Minnesota (8)
The Wild squeaked into the playoffs and drew the hottest team in the NHL in the form of the Blackhawks. The Hawks are clicking on all cylinders right now and don't appear to have any chinks in their armor. Their only concern might be the health of Ray Emery. Should Corey Crawford falter and Emery cannot go, then the dynamic for the Blackhawks gets a bit dicier. The Wild cannot match the offensive firepower of the Hawks, and that same offensive talent will overwhelm the defense of the Wild. This one is over early
Hawks in 5
Anaheim (2) vs. Detroit (7)
The Ducks quietly put together a very solid season, reversing their fortunes of last year. Once again, Ryan Getzlaf, Corey Perry, and Bobby Ryan are a formidable offensive threat. The Dorian Gray of hockey, Teemu Selanne, continues to impress with his productivity and total game. The Wings are led by the outstanding duo of Pavel Datsyuk and Henrik Zetterberg, but unlike years past, the depth scoring for the Wings is lacking. If Detroit is going to have an opportunity to win this series, Jimmy Howard is going to have to play out of his mind. I don't see it happening.
Anaheim in 6
Vancouver (3) vs San Jose (6)
Vancouver has more talent and has the potential to dive right into the second round (see what I did there) without too much trouble. That is, if they don't let the Sharks physical game get them rattled. Vancouver has to prove they are tough mentally and cannot be taken off their game in a rough and tumble series. For the Sharks, their window of opportunity to get to the Cup finals is fast closing. That could change if Patrick Marleau can re-discover his game (1 goal in his last 15 contests) and the Sharks D can help support Antii Niemi. Essential for the Sharks will be to contain the top two lines of the Canucks, while the Canucks are going to look to use their offensive talent to rip the heart out of the Sharks. Look for the Canucks to do that.
Canucks in 5
St. Louis (4) vs Los Angeles (5)
A re-match of last year's second round series between these teams will be, in my view, perhaps the most entertaining of the first round match ups. LA ran the Blues off the ice in their series last season, and the Blues are very cognizant of that and will look to seize early momentum in this series on their home ice. Brian Elliott is more experienced and will once again shoulder the load. The painful lessons of last year's playoff round will serve the Blues well, but it will not be an easy series. The Kings have a certain swagger about them, and they know they can win it all after last year. Combine that attitude with the physical nature of their game and the ability to absolutely explode for goals and the Blues will have their hands full. The edge in this series will be Jonathan Quick, who will out-duel Elliott.
Kings in 7
Eastern Conference
Pittsburgh (1) vs New York Islanders (8)
The Islanders are the feel good story of the playoffs. After enduring several years of futility on the ice coupled with uncertainty about where the team will play, the Isles started to jell and play some very good hockey. John Tavares is the marquee name, and Johnny T is going to have to do yeoman's work in this series for the Isles to have a chance. The real story for the isles will be the play of Evgeny Nabokov. If he is strong in net and can get some goal support, the Isles will make this a competitive series. Pittsburgh, even if Sidney Crosby is out of the line up, will have too much firepower for the Isles. Trouble looms for the Pens if Marc-Andre Fleury is off his game or if the team overlooks the hungry Isles. It won't happen.
Pens in 5
Montreal (2) vs Ottawa (7)
An intriguing match up here because Carey price has struggled of late in net for the Canadiens. if Price regains his form and settles down, the Habs should take care of business. For Ottawa, the return of Eric Karlsson is a decided plus, but his game is still rounding back into shape, and the rigors of playoff games may expose him if he is not 100%. The Sens have to have a strong series from Craig Anderson and they have to be physical with a smaller Habs lineup. Home ice is a decided advantage and will help tip this series toward the Canadiens.
Montreal in 6
Washington (3) vs New York Rangers (6)
For Washington, they want to keep what on doing what they have been doing, and that is putting the puck in the net. Alex ovechkin found his game in the second half of the season, and he begin to score, so did the rest of the team. That has to continue for the Caps to capture this series, obviously, but perhaps more importantly for their success will the play of Braden Holtby. Holtby is going to have to shut down the Rangers attack, or at least keep the Caps close and hope they have enough offense to win games. Henrik Lundqvist is key to the Rangers chances. If he can shut down the scoring attack of the Caps, they will begin to press and get away from their level of play that made them successful. In my view, this may be the most compelling series in the East.
Washington in 7
Boston (4) vs Toronto (5)
If- and this is a big if- Boston plays their game and to their talent level, they will win this series. Tuuka Rask has been solid in net, and the Bruins have the physical capabilities of wearing down any opponent. However, their play over the last third of the season was spotty and their power play atrocious. The Bruins need to relax and play their style of hockey. And welcome back to the playoffs, Toronto. An energetic and exciting squad that can play very good hockey will give the Bruins a challenge in this series. James Reimer is going to see his first playoff action, and this will be a challenge for the young netminder. It is going to be critical that Joffrey Lupol, Phil Kessel, and Nazim Kadri step of their game if the Leafs are going to have an opportunity to win this series. They will give it a good effort, but I think the Bruins shut them down.
Boston in 6
There you have it... fearless first round predictions. Remember- these are for entertainment purposes only, but if you do win any money betting on these picks, I need a cut.
Tuesday, April 30, 2013
Saturday, April 27, 2013
Predators Flop in the Third Period, Fall to Blue Jackets
The Nashville Predators and the Columbus Blue Jackets met at Nationwide Arena in the final game of the season. For one team, the game meant nothing- finish and book your tee time. For the other team, the outcome of the game held playoff implications- win and have the opportunity to get in the playoffs.
Unlike years past, it was the Predators that would be booking tee times and the Blue Jackets were fighting to get into the playoffs.
For the Predators, it was one final game to audition some of the younger players that had populated the line up in the latter part of the season. On final opportunity to get a win and assuage some of the bad emotions that have built in this difficult season.
The Predators were going to have match the emotion and intensity that the Jackets would be playing with if they were going to win this game.
Chris Mason was in net for the Predators, while the Jackets had Sergei Bobrovsky between the pipes.
A spirited first period ended with neither team scoring, but each generated some good chances. Both netminders came up with some good stops, especially Bobrovsky as the Predators had some good flurries in front of the net. The Predators did a good job of matching the intensity of the Jackets in the opening frame.
The Predators opened the scoring at 8:29 of the second period as Joonas Rask kept the puck in at the blue line in the Jackets zone. he got the puck to David Legwand, who dropped the puck to Shea Weber. Weber fired a wrist shot from the face off circle that beat Bobrovsky over his shoulder to give the Predators a 1-0 lead.
Chris Mason came up with a huge save on Brandon Dubinsky, who broke in alone on the Predators net. Mason stopped Dubinsky with his glove with a brilliant save.
The period ended with the Predators leading 1-0. The jackets had out shot the Predators 22-15 through the first 40 minutes.
Everyone knew that the Jackets would have a push fueled by desperation in the third period, and that is exactly what happened. The Jackets opened the third out shooting the Predators 11-0 in the first 7 minutes of the period, and Mason made some good saves to keep the Jackets off the board, including a stretch of two minutes of a Columbus power play.
With Chris Mueller in the box and the Jackets on their second power play of the game, they finally broke through as Brandon Dubinsky got loose in the slot and beat mason off a backhand to tie the game at 1 at 10:09 of the third period.
As solidly as the Predators had played in the first 40 minutes, they had disappeared in the third period. Through 12:40 of the period, the Predators had been out shot 15-1 and showed no offensive instinct whatsoever. The Predators were letting the Jackets dictate and dominate play, and if they were going to have an opportunity to win this game, they would have to re-discover their offensive game and establish some zone presence.
Jack Johnson gave the jackets a 2-1 lead as he circled behind the net and threw the puck back to the front. The puck hit the back of Mason's pads and floated into the blue paint. Shea Weber inadvertently hit the puck with his stick and knocked it into the net for an unfortunate goal.
The Blue Jackets would add an empty net goal by Cam Atkisson for the final margin of 3-1.
Some observations:
Final Frame Flop
The Predators had played a solid 40 minutes of hockey only to completely collapse in the final frame. The Jackets totally dominated the Predators, out shooting them 26-5. The Jackets were going to come out with intensity and desperation in the final 20 minutes, and the Predators did not come close to matching their effort. This is disappointing even with the young line up. The veterans had to step up and lead and in the process calm down the youngsters. They failed miserably.
Painful Learning Experience
Injuries forced a number of young players into the line up, and they had to play some critical minutes during the latter stages of the season. They weren't often rewarded and the learning experience was not pleasant. The positive aspect of this painful learning experience is just that- experience. They have seen what it takes to compete and win at the highest level. They have also felt what it is like to be in the losing locker room. Those experiences will serve them and the team well in the coming seasons.
Forsberg Has The Potential...
to be really good. he is composed and smooth with the puck. He possesses great hockey sense. With physical and mental maturity that will come, he has the potential to be the elite scorer the Predators sorely lack. It is just that- potential. We will have to watch his development closely.
Mason Deserved Better
Chris Mason played his best game of the year, making some great saves, including on two breakaways. He got absolutely no support in the third period, and the Predators wasted a solid effort.
Final Thoughts
Mercifully, this miserable season has come to an end. Disappointing would be an understatement, but there are lessons that can be learned.
Fail to learn those lessons and next year could be just as ugly.
My three stars:
1. Sergei Bobrovsky
2. Chris Mason
3. Jack Johnson
Unlike years past, it was the Predators that would be booking tee times and the Blue Jackets were fighting to get into the playoffs.
For the Predators, it was one final game to audition some of the younger players that had populated the line up in the latter part of the season. On final opportunity to get a win and assuage some of the bad emotions that have built in this difficult season.
The Predators were going to have match the emotion and intensity that the Jackets would be playing with if they were going to win this game.
Chris Mason was in net for the Predators, while the Jackets had Sergei Bobrovsky between the pipes.
A spirited first period ended with neither team scoring, but each generated some good chances. Both netminders came up with some good stops, especially Bobrovsky as the Predators had some good flurries in front of the net. The Predators did a good job of matching the intensity of the Jackets in the opening frame.
The Predators opened the scoring at 8:29 of the second period as Joonas Rask kept the puck in at the blue line in the Jackets zone. he got the puck to David Legwand, who dropped the puck to Shea Weber. Weber fired a wrist shot from the face off circle that beat Bobrovsky over his shoulder to give the Predators a 1-0 lead.
Chris Mason came up with a huge save on Brandon Dubinsky, who broke in alone on the Predators net. Mason stopped Dubinsky with his glove with a brilliant save.
The period ended with the Predators leading 1-0. The jackets had out shot the Predators 22-15 through the first 40 minutes.
Everyone knew that the Jackets would have a push fueled by desperation in the third period, and that is exactly what happened. The Jackets opened the third out shooting the Predators 11-0 in the first 7 minutes of the period, and Mason made some good saves to keep the Jackets off the board, including a stretch of two minutes of a Columbus power play.
With Chris Mueller in the box and the Jackets on their second power play of the game, they finally broke through as Brandon Dubinsky got loose in the slot and beat mason off a backhand to tie the game at 1 at 10:09 of the third period.
As solidly as the Predators had played in the first 40 minutes, they had disappeared in the third period. Through 12:40 of the period, the Predators had been out shot 15-1 and showed no offensive instinct whatsoever. The Predators were letting the Jackets dictate and dominate play, and if they were going to have an opportunity to win this game, they would have to re-discover their offensive game and establish some zone presence.
Jack Johnson gave the jackets a 2-1 lead as he circled behind the net and threw the puck back to the front. The puck hit the back of Mason's pads and floated into the blue paint. Shea Weber inadvertently hit the puck with his stick and knocked it into the net for an unfortunate goal.
The Blue Jackets would add an empty net goal by Cam Atkisson for the final margin of 3-1.
Some observations:
Final Frame Flop
The Predators had played a solid 40 minutes of hockey only to completely collapse in the final frame. The Jackets totally dominated the Predators, out shooting them 26-5. The Jackets were going to come out with intensity and desperation in the final 20 minutes, and the Predators did not come close to matching their effort. This is disappointing even with the young line up. The veterans had to step up and lead and in the process calm down the youngsters. They failed miserably.
Painful Learning Experience
Injuries forced a number of young players into the line up, and they had to play some critical minutes during the latter stages of the season. They weren't often rewarded and the learning experience was not pleasant. The positive aspect of this painful learning experience is just that- experience. They have seen what it takes to compete and win at the highest level. They have also felt what it is like to be in the losing locker room. Those experiences will serve them and the team well in the coming seasons.
Forsberg Has The Potential...
to be really good. he is composed and smooth with the puck. He possesses great hockey sense. With physical and mental maturity that will come, he has the potential to be the elite scorer the Predators sorely lack. It is just that- potential. We will have to watch his development closely.
Mason Deserved Better
Chris Mason played his best game of the year, making some great saves, including on two breakaways. He got absolutely no support in the third period, and the Predators wasted a solid effort.
Final Thoughts
Mercifully, this miserable season has come to an end. Disappointing would be an understatement, but there are lessons that can be learned.
Fail to learn those lessons and next year could be just as ugly.
My three stars:
1. Sergei Bobrovsky
2. Chris Mason
3. Jack Johnson
Friday, April 26, 2013
My View
Random ruminations from your resident curmudgeon...
So it seems that our Congressional leaders are engaged in private discussions to exempt themselves from Obamacare. Seems that the cost of this obamination has some on Capital Hill worried that it will be so expensive it will force many lower and mid-level staffers to leave and look for higher paying jobs so they can afford the healthcare premiums. The ability of Congressional staffers to leave and go to higher paying jobs where they can more readily absorb the steeply rising cost of healthcare coverage is a boon for them, but what about most of us that cannot transition our job or career so easily? Many families are going to see their healthcare premiums rise 25-50% with the full implementation of Obamacare and they will have no choice but to absorb the cost increase. Democrats have foisted this piece of crap health plan on this country, and they should be made to suffer under the increased cost and reduced service as all of us will have to do. The underlying principal that is in play here, though, is the fact that our elected leaders deem themselves above the laws and regulations that they implement and under which we have to operate. This divergence is dangerous and leads to disasters like Obamacare. It is time to hold our elected leaders accountable and force them to live with the same laws- and their accompanying costs- as all of us have to do.
I went shopping at a general store, but they wouldn't let me buy anything specifically.
Congress is debating an immigration bill that has focused our attention on amnesty and the path to citizenship for those that are in our country illegally. There is no doubt that our immigration laws are dysfunctional and need reform, and the entire immigration system and process needs to be made more functional and efficient. I don't think this bill accomplishes that. And the proposed immigration bill that is under debate has some staggering costs associated with it. Section 212(a)(4) of the U.S. Code says that no immigrant that is at risk of becoming a "public charge" can get a green card. How is that working out for our country? Over half of the holders of green cards currently have incomes below 138% of the federal poverty line and are uninsured and are receiving some form of public assistance. To increase immigration under the provisions of this proposed bill would cost the American taxpayers and additional $100 billion over the next decade to pay for their benefits, according to Betsy McCaughey, former Lt. Governor of New York. Illegal immigrants, under the proposed new bill would be granted provisional status and on their path to citizenship and would not be allowed to collect public assistance. Oh, with these few exceptions: unemployed; in job training; getting a high school or GED diploma; taking care of a child; younger than 21 or older than 60; or going to college. In other words, virtually every illegal immigrant that is given a provisional green card will qualify for some of your income via the transfer tax under this bill. The lunacy of the Rubio-McCain bill is beyond words and should it should be stopped immediately.
If you drink, don't drive. Don't even putt.
Congress is considering a bill that would allow each state to collect taxes on Internet purchases made by the residents of that state. As more of us purchase an ever expanding array of goods over the Internet, states have been losing sales tax revenue that they would have collected if the purchases had been made at store with a physical location within their borders. Merchants with a physical presence have decried the lack of tax collection, saying it creates an uneven playing field between them and on-line sellers. States bemoan the lost revenue. so the bill before Congress seems like it will even things up, right? Know that we are talking some serious money here. According to the Commerce Department, Internet sales totaled $226 billion in the U.S. in 2012, up 16% from the previous year. What this bill does, however, is make most on-line retailers tax (on-line retailers with annual sales of less than $1 million are exempted under the proposal) tax collectors for the various states. Further, a company headquartered in one state with no physical representation in another state is still subject to the tax laws and changes that may be enacted, and they have no representation. Now imagine if you are an on-line retailer and you now have to comply with 50 different tax jurisdictions and their particular laws and regulations. Think your cost of doing business is going up? And when it does, those companies will slow their expansion. And pass those increased costs on to you and me. This little glimpse into the complexity of our tax system in this country points out the desperate need for reform and simplicity in the tax code.
I have always wanted to be the last man on earth just to see if all those women were lying to me.
And that, my friends, is my view.
Thursday, April 25, 2013
Predators Wilt Against the Wings
The Nashville Predators have been relegated to the role of spoiler as the season winds down, and they were in Detroit not only attempting to win their second game in a row but put a dent in the Red Wings playoff chances.
While the Red Wings were playing with a sense of urgency, the Predators could play loose and continue to audition some of their young players.
One of those would be Joonas Rask, who was called up from Milwaukee and was appearing in his first NHL game.
The Predators went with Chris Mason in net, while workhorse Jimmy Howard was in goal for the Wings.
The Predators welcomed back Mike Fisher, who has been out with an injury, and he made his presence felt early as he tallied the first goal of the game off a nice feed from Rich Clune.
The Wings answered with Valtteri Filppula getting free in the low slot and beating Mason with a quick wrist shot.
The Predators took a 2-1 lead on the power play as Shea Weber shoveled the puck to the front of the net. Mike Fisher was in front battling and Craig Smith took a shot that Howard stopped. Smith got his rebound and roofed the puck past Howard.
The first period ended with the Predators leading 2-1 but having to kill off 57 seconds of a Detroit power play to start the second period.
The Wings tied the game just 1:01 into the second period as the power play had just expired. Johan Franzen gathered in a rebound and roofed a shot from a sharp angle.
Patrick Eaves got lost by the Predators defense and whipped a one timer past mason from the face off circle to give the Wings a 3-2 lead. Eaves was all alone as the defense broke down and lost track of the forward in a dangerous scoring position.
The Predators kept playing with fire by taking penalties, and the it burnt them as late in the period the Predators were once again down a man and Pavel Datsyuk skated the puck into the zone and blistered a shot past a screened Chris Mason to make it 4-2.
The Predators gave up 3 goals in the second period through some miscues and sloppy play. If they were going to have a chance to get back into the game, they were going to have to elevate their play.
Through two periods, the Wings had out shot the Predators 25-15.
The injury bug continued to bedevil the Predators, as they lost Matt Halischuk in the second period and for the rest of the game with an upper body injury.
The Predators attempted to get back into the game with some good pressure in the Wings zone but could not get a puck past Howard.
Justin Abdelkader extended the Wings lead to 5-2 late in the period as he buried a rebound past Mason, and any hope the Predators had of climbing back into this game were squelched with that goal.
The game ended with that score as the Predators wilted down the stretch in face of the pressure from a desperate Wings team playing with greater urgency.
Some observations:
Messy Mistakes
The Predators made a game of it early with solid play and good pressure in the Wings zone, but as the game wore on, their mistakes cost them dearly. Too many penalties and some blown coverage in the defensive zone allowed the Wings to get back in the game. Part of this is the presence of the new guys in the line up, and losing Halishcuk in the second period further jumbled the forward lines which didn't help the effort. The Wings were hungry and focused, and they capitalized on the mistakes the Predators made.
Welcome Back Mike
Mike Fisher returned to the line up and made his presence felt with the first goal of the game and was battling all night. It was good to see Fisher back and his effort and leadership on the ice will be a benefit to the young players.
Smith Shows Up
Craig Smith had a goal and an assist, his first points in...forever. Smith played with good jump and went to the hard area in front of the net for his goal. Smith has had a brutal season, but he has not stopped hustling and working. He has the potential to be a very good winger, but this season has been forgettable. hopefully, this is just a very bad sophomore slump and that these points will give him some confidence and get him untracked.
Gotta Have More
David Legwand has 21:18 of ice time; Sergei Kostitsyn had 19:08, the most among the forwards. They combined for 2 shots on goal. The Predators have to get more from these veteran forwards if they are going to be in any game. Tonight, they were invisible, and their offensive drought contributed to the Predators lack of production.
Final Thoughts
The result was about as expected as a team that is fighting to get into the playoffs matched up against a patchwork lineup. The effort by the Predators was spotty and the mistakes were costly. The Predators have one more chance to try to salve some wounds from this awful season.
Hope you bring it, boys.
My three stars;
1. Jimmy Howard
2. Pavel Datsyuk
3. Craig Smith
While the Red Wings were playing with a sense of urgency, the Predators could play loose and continue to audition some of their young players.
One of those would be Joonas Rask, who was called up from Milwaukee and was appearing in his first NHL game.
The Predators went with Chris Mason in net, while workhorse Jimmy Howard was in goal for the Wings.
The Predators welcomed back Mike Fisher, who has been out with an injury, and he made his presence felt early as he tallied the first goal of the game off a nice feed from Rich Clune.
The Wings answered with Valtteri Filppula getting free in the low slot and beating Mason with a quick wrist shot.
The Predators took a 2-1 lead on the power play as Shea Weber shoveled the puck to the front of the net. Mike Fisher was in front battling and Craig Smith took a shot that Howard stopped. Smith got his rebound and roofed the puck past Howard.
The first period ended with the Predators leading 2-1 but having to kill off 57 seconds of a Detroit power play to start the second period.
The Wings tied the game just 1:01 into the second period as the power play had just expired. Johan Franzen gathered in a rebound and roofed a shot from a sharp angle.
Patrick Eaves got lost by the Predators defense and whipped a one timer past mason from the face off circle to give the Wings a 3-2 lead. Eaves was all alone as the defense broke down and lost track of the forward in a dangerous scoring position.
The Predators kept playing with fire by taking penalties, and the it burnt them as late in the period the Predators were once again down a man and Pavel Datsyuk skated the puck into the zone and blistered a shot past a screened Chris Mason to make it 4-2.
The Predators gave up 3 goals in the second period through some miscues and sloppy play. If they were going to have a chance to get back into the game, they were going to have to elevate their play.
Through two periods, the Wings had out shot the Predators 25-15.
The injury bug continued to bedevil the Predators, as they lost Matt Halischuk in the second period and for the rest of the game with an upper body injury.
The Predators attempted to get back into the game with some good pressure in the Wings zone but could not get a puck past Howard.
Justin Abdelkader extended the Wings lead to 5-2 late in the period as he buried a rebound past Mason, and any hope the Predators had of climbing back into this game were squelched with that goal.
The game ended with that score as the Predators wilted down the stretch in face of the pressure from a desperate Wings team playing with greater urgency.
Some observations:
Messy Mistakes
The Predators made a game of it early with solid play and good pressure in the Wings zone, but as the game wore on, their mistakes cost them dearly. Too many penalties and some blown coverage in the defensive zone allowed the Wings to get back in the game. Part of this is the presence of the new guys in the line up, and losing Halishcuk in the second period further jumbled the forward lines which didn't help the effort. The Wings were hungry and focused, and they capitalized on the mistakes the Predators made.
Welcome Back Mike
Mike Fisher returned to the line up and made his presence felt with the first goal of the game and was battling all night. It was good to see Fisher back and his effort and leadership on the ice will be a benefit to the young players.
Smith Shows Up
Craig Smith had a goal and an assist, his first points in...forever. Smith played with good jump and went to the hard area in front of the net for his goal. Smith has had a brutal season, but he has not stopped hustling and working. He has the potential to be a very good winger, but this season has been forgettable. hopefully, this is just a very bad sophomore slump and that these points will give him some confidence and get him untracked.
Gotta Have More
David Legwand has 21:18 of ice time; Sergei Kostitsyn had 19:08, the most among the forwards. They combined for 2 shots on goal. The Predators have to get more from these veteran forwards if they are going to be in any game. Tonight, they were invisible, and their offensive drought contributed to the Predators lack of production.
Final Thoughts
The result was about as expected as a team that is fighting to get into the playoffs matched up against a patchwork lineup. The effort by the Predators was spotty and the mistakes were costly. The Predators have one more chance to try to salve some wounds from this awful season.
Hope you bring it, boys.
My three stars;
1. Jimmy Howard
2. Pavel Datsyuk
3. Craig Smith
Tuesday, April 23, 2013
Predators End Losing Streak, Douse Flames
The Nashville Predators ended a dismal losing streak, the longest in franchise history, with a 4-3 victory over the Calgary Flames at Bridgestone Arena in front of their 20th sellout crowd in this abbreviated season.
The Predators came back twice from one goal deficits to capture the victory.
Pekka Rinne was in net for the Predators and he faced 18 shots for the game, while Mikka Kiprusoff manned the pipes for the Flames and had to contend with 32 shots.
The Predators sent their fans home happy with an effort that can only be described as Predator hockey. The Predators hustled, fired pucks at the net, and scored by getting traffic in front of Kiprusoff.
Some observations:
Effort Was Exceptional
The Predators poured 32 shots on the Calgary net, and more importantly, did so with traffic in front. Goals by David Legwand and Nick Spaling were earned because they were in the hard areas in front of the net creating traffic and havoc in front of Kipper. It is one thing to shoot the puck, but for the Predators to be successful, they have to go to the net and disrupt. They did that very well tonight. They also did a good job of forechecking and slowing the Flames through the neutral zone. Their effort in all zones was solid and key to the victory.
Elementary, Mr. Watson
Austin Watson tallied his first NHL goal on a wrist shot from the slot. Watson has looked more comfortable in each of the games he has played at the NHL level and was rewarded tonight for his effort. Watson is a big body that has some upside and he needed this goal to boost his confidence. Now that it is out of the way, the hope is that he will find the net with some frequency.
Young Guns
In addition to Watson, Chris Mueller, Bobby Butler, and Filip Forsberg all got on the score sheet by recording assists. While the team has sorely missed some of the injured regulars, these young guys are getting some valuable ice time and they are contributing. While Predator fans are ruing the fact that the team will not make the playoffs, this trial by fire for the youngsters will pay dividends next season.
Legwand Leads
With his goal tonight, David Legwand he franchise leader in goals with 200. Congratulations to Legwand.
Halischuk Is Playing Outstanding Hockey
Matt Halischuk has elevated his game of late and the team has benefited. Halischuk notched his 5th goal of the season to give the Predators a 3-2 lead early in the third period. Halischuk has been strong on the puck and is taking it to the net and he has been rewarded for his efforts. He has been solid offensively as well as defensively and has taken a bigger role in the performance of the team. It's good to see his game grow and how he has responded to the challenge.
Final Thoughts
This losing streak and this season have been miserable. The positive aspects of this for the Predators are that there are players getting some invaluable experience in all situations and it will serve the team well in the coming seasons. The other aspect is that the team is forging character in this time of adversity. It is not going to be fun to watch the playoffs instead of participating in them. It is not fun losing. This team is tasting the bitterness of a sour season, and I believe they will learn from it and it will be a long term positive.
It had better be so.
My three stars:
1. Shea Weber
2. Roman Cervenka
3. Matt Halischuk
The Predators came back twice from one goal deficits to capture the victory.
Pekka Rinne was in net for the Predators and he faced 18 shots for the game, while Mikka Kiprusoff manned the pipes for the Flames and had to contend with 32 shots.
The Predators sent their fans home happy with an effort that can only be described as Predator hockey. The Predators hustled, fired pucks at the net, and scored by getting traffic in front of Kiprusoff.
Some observations:
Effort Was Exceptional
The Predators poured 32 shots on the Calgary net, and more importantly, did so with traffic in front. Goals by David Legwand and Nick Spaling were earned because they were in the hard areas in front of the net creating traffic and havoc in front of Kipper. It is one thing to shoot the puck, but for the Predators to be successful, they have to go to the net and disrupt. They did that very well tonight. They also did a good job of forechecking and slowing the Flames through the neutral zone. Their effort in all zones was solid and key to the victory.
Elementary, Mr. Watson
Austin Watson tallied his first NHL goal on a wrist shot from the slot. Watson has looked more comfortable in each of the games he has played at the NHL level and was rewarded tonight for his effort. Watson is a big body that has some upside and he needed this goal to boost his confidence. Now that it is out of the way, the hope is that he will find the net with some frequency.
Young Guns
In addition to Watson, Chris Mueller, Bobby Butler, and Filip Forsberg all got on the score sheet by recording assists. While the team has sorely missed some of the injured regulars, these young guys are getting some valuable ice time and they are contributing. While Predator fans are ruing the fact that the team will not make the playoffs, this trial by fire for the youngsters will pay dividends next season.
Legwand Leads
With his goal tonight, David Legwand he franchise leader in goals with 200. Congratulations to Legwand.
Halischuk Is Playing Outstanding Hockey
Matt Halischuk has elevated his game of late and the team has benefited. Halischuk notched his 5th goal of the season to give the Predators a 3-2 lead early in the third period. Halischuk has been strong on the puck and is taking it to the net and he has been rewarded for his efforts. He has been solid offensively as well as defensively and has taken a bigger role in the performance of the team. It's good to see his game grow and how he has responded to the challenge.
Final Thoughts
This losing streak and this season have been miserable. The positive aspects of this for the Predators are that there are players getting some invaluable experience in all situations and it will serve the team well in the coming seasons. The other aspect is that the team is forging character in this time of adversity. It is not going to be fun to watch the playoffs instead of participating in them. It is not fun losing. This team is tasting the bitterness of a sour season, and I believe they will learn from it and it will be a long term positive.
It had better be so.
My three stars:
1. Shea Weber
2. Roman Cervenka
3. Matt Halischuk
Friday, April 19, 2013
Hawks Heartbreaker; Predators Fall In OT
The Nashville Predators are not playing for a spot in the playoffs. They are playing for pride, and in some situations, a roster spot for next season.
So there is a lot still at stake for the Predators, and they had an opportunity to play for pride against the best team in the NHL in the Chicago Blackhawks at the United Center.
The Predators had Pekka Rinne in net, while the Hawks went with Corey Crawford.
The game opened with the Blackhawks flying and firing shots at Rinne. The Hawks opened the scoring on the power play as Brent Seabrook cruised down the slot and fired a wrist shot past Rinne.
The mix and match line up of the Predators responded to the opening salvo from the Hawks by scoring the next two goals in Predator fashion.
Kevin Klein pinched in from the blue line and fired a shot at the net that Crawford could not handle cleanly. Matt Halischuk was at the side of the net and was able to poke the puck past Crawford to tie the game at 1.
The Predators took a 2-1 lead as Booby Butler took a shot that Crawford could not control. New call up Kevin Henderson and Chris Mueller banged away at the puck and Henderson was able to shove it under the pads of Crawford to make it 2-1.
Two goals that were scored by going to the dirty areas and doing the hard work to score. Something that had been lacking from the Predators game recently.
The Hawks tied the game at 2 as Brandon Saad muffed a shot but got the puck back under control and beat Rinne glove side.
That was the way the first period ended. The Hawks out shot the Predators 15-8 in the period.
The Hawks made it 3-2 off a 2 on 1 break that began when Sergei Kostitsyn made an errant pass that resulted in Bryan Bickell breaking in with Patrick Kane. Kane was able to beat Rinne five hole for the go ahead score.
Matt Halischuk tied the game at 3 when Victor Bartley spotted Halischuk streaking through the neutral zone and hit him in stride with a beautiful pass. Halishcuk had his initial shot stopped by Crawford but got his rebound and banged the puck past Crawford. Kudos to Bartley for spotting Halischuk and hitting him with a great pass and to Halsichuk for staying with the play after his first shot was blocked.
The second period ended tied at 3 with the Hawks out shooting the Predators 12-9. Rinne made some big saves to keep the Predators in the game.
Perhaps more importantly, the Predators answered the Hawks goal and were playing with jump and determination. This is exactly what this squad has to do to stay in games and have a chance to win.
The Predators made a gaffe that cost them a goal when Victor Bartley threw the puck to the middle and right onto the tape of Michael Handzus. Handzus ripped a shot from the slot top shelf to beat Rinne and give the Hawks a 4-3 lead.
The Predators once again answered as Shea Weber took a shot that caromed off bodies in front and came back to Bobby Butler, who made no mistake in burying the shot past Crawford to tie the game at 4.
Playing for pride and roster spots, the Predators kept fighting their way back into the game.
With 44 seconds left in the third, Rich Clune took a double minor for high sticking. The Predators were able to kill off the remaining time in regulation, but 51 seconds into the overtime, Marian Hossa scored the game winner to extend the Predators losing streak.
Some observations:
Henderson Helps
Kevin Henderson got his first NHL goal and played a strong game with lots of energy. The 26 year old is a big body and doesn't shy away from the physical game, and his effort in front helped the Predators notch their second goal of the game.
Butler Belongs
Bobby Butler is making a case to be on the roster next season. His game tying goal was a result of driving to the net and being in the right place at the right time. Butler needs to finish out strong to continue to make his case.
Good Jump
The Predators survived some strong pushes by the Hawks at various times during the game. More importantly, they did not quit and had the answer for every Hawks challenge in regulation. This effort is one that the team can use to build upon and should be a boost for their confidence.
Final Thoughts
There is no doubt that the injuries the Predators have suffered have affected their performance. It is not an excuse. Any player that puts on the sweater has to bring it when they step on the ice, and tonight, they did that. No one will feel sorry for them, so lace them up and play, boys. The effort tonight is what it takes to break out of this funk.
You have a few more chances to do that.
My three stars:
1. Marian Hossa
2. Matt Halsichuk
3. Duncan Keith
So there is a lot still at stake for the Predators, and they had an opportunity to play for pride against the best team in the NHL in the Chicago Blackhawks at the United Center.
The Predators had Pekka Rinne in net, while the Hawks went with Corey Crawford.
The game opened with the Blackhawks flying and firing shots at Rinne. The Hawks opened the scoring on the power play as Brent Seabrook cruised down the slot and fired a wrist shot past Rinne.
The mix and match line up of the Predators responded to the opening salvo from the Hawks by scoring the next two goals in Predator fashion.
Kevin Klein pinched in from the blue line and fired a shot at the net that Crawford could not handle cleanly. Matt Halischuk was at the side of the net and was able to poke the puck past Crawford to tie the game at 1.
The Predators took a 2-1 lead as Booby Butler took a shot that Crawford could not control. New call up Kevin Henderson and Chris Mueller banged away at the puck and Henderson was able to shove it under the pads of Crawford to make it 2-1.
Two goals that were scored by going to the dirty areas and doing the hard work to score. Something that had been lacking from the Predators game recently.
The Hawks tied the game at 2 as Brandon Saad muffed a shot but got the puck back under control and beat Rinne glove side.
That was the way the first period ended. The Hawks out shot the Predators 15-8 in the period.
The Hawks made it 3-2 off a 2 on 1 break that began when Sergei Kostitsyn made an errant pass that resulted in Bryan Bickell breaking in with Patrick Kane. Kane was able to beat Rinne five hole for the go ahead score.
Matt Halischuk tied the game at 3 when Victor Bartley spotted Halischuk streaking through the neutral zone and hit him in stride with a beautiful pass. Halishcuk had his initial shot stopped by Crawford but got his rebound and banged the puck past Crawford. Kudos to Bartley for spotting Halischuk and hitting him with a great pass and to Halsichuk for staying with the play after his first shot was blocked.
The second period ended tied at 3 with the Hawks out shooting the Predators 12-9. Rinne made some big saves to keep the Predators in the game.
Perhaps more importantly, the Predators answered the Hawks goal and were playing with jump and determination. This is exactly what this squad has to do to stay in games and have a chance to win.
The Predators made a gaffe that cost them a goal when Victor Bartley threw the puck to the middle and right onto the tape of Michael Handzus. Handzus ripped a shot from the slot top shelf to beat Rinne and give the Hawks a 4-3 lead.
The Predators once again answered as Shea Weber took a shot that caromed off bodies in front and came back to Bobby Butler, who made no mistake in burying the shot past Crawford to tie the game at 4.
Playing for pride and roster spots, the Predators kept fighting their way back into the game.
With 44 seconds left in the third, Rich Clune took a double minor for high sticking. The Predators were able to kill off the remaining time in regulation, but 51 seconds into the overtime, Marian Hossa scored the game winner to extend the Predators losing streak.
Some observations:
Henderson Helps
Kevin Henderson got his first NHL goal and played a strong game with lots of energy. The 26 year old is a big body and doesn't shy away from the physical game, and his effort in front helped the Predators notch their second goal of the game.
Butler Belongs
Bobby Butler is making a case to be on the roster next season. His game tying goal was a result of driving to the net and being in the right place at the right time. Butler needs to finish out strong to continue to make his case.
Good Jump
The Predators survived some strong pushes by the Hawks at various times during the game. More importantly, they did not quit and had the answer for every Hawks challenge in regulation. This effort is one that the team can use to build upon and should be a boost for their confidence.
Final Thoughts
There is no doubt that the injuries the Predators have suffered have affected their performance. It is not an excuse. Any player that puts on the sweater has to bring it when they step on the ice, and tonight, they did that. No one will feel sorry for them, so lace them up and play, boys. The effort tonight is what it takes to break out of this funk.
You have a few more chances to do that.
My three stars:
1. Marian Hossa
2. Matt Halsichuk
3. Duncan Keith
My View
Random ruminations from your resident curmudgeon...
The tragic events that have unfolded in Boston at the finish line of the marathon point out that this is a dangerous world, one that is changing and becoming more dangerous. There isn't a country in the world that can match the military superiority of the United States. There are numerous countries, however, that have no respect for human life and the freedoms we have, and have many people willing to sacrifice themselves for their misguided hatred of our country and our people. This asymmetrical form of conflict is going to escalate over time, and no amount of denial and banal platitudes is going to change that fact. What stands in the breach between free people and these thugs are the warriors that risk their lives for our safety. Not only our military, but the police and fire services and the various branches of law enforcement. We owe these men and women an unpayable debt of gratitude for their service and their sacrifice.
I am not a racist. I think motor sports are fine.
This past Monday, many of us experienced the painful process of wealth transfer to the federal government as we paid our taxes. Did you ever wonder where the money goes? I am glad you asked.
Notice the amount that is spent on various social programs- 64 cents of every dollar in tax revenues goes to some form of entitlement program. As more boomers age out and begin to collect benefits, that will grow, and when it does, it will crowd out other expenditures. Now you can see the financial dilemma that we face in this country. To correct it and to make these programs financially viable will take some tough decisions and some discipline to rein in spending. Unfortunately, our leaders in Washington have not demonstrated those traits.
Gravity- it's not just a good idea, it's the law.
Speaking of taxes... According to the IRS Taxpayer Advocate in its recently released 2012 report, the cost of complying with the U.S. tax code was $168 billion as of 2010, the last year for the data. It takes Americans 6.1 billion hours, or 51 hours per household, to complete all the required forms and filings. In 2012, Washington collected $20,000 per household in taxes. The problem is that the federal government spent $30,000 per household, and this is on top of the cost of complying with the obtuse and arcane federal tax code. Common sense suggests that we should simplify the tax code and curtail spending to more reasonable levels. But then again, when has common sense ever applied to Washington?
I went to a very emotional wedding this past weekend. Even the cake was in tiers.
And that, my friends, is my view.
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