Thank You Sir, May I Have Another? - Hawks 3, Preds 0 (Series Tied 2-2)
by McClure on Apr 23, 2010 8:42 AM CDT
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PrintGoing into Thursday night's game four, there were numerous questions swirling around Blackhawks Nation. Would Brian Campbell play? Would the Hawks respond in what was for all intents and purposes a must-win situation? Would the Hawks match the Predators effort level? And would the Hawks best players make themselves noticeable during the game?
The answer to all of these questions was a pretty emphatic "yes".
Brian Campbell played (albeit with severely limited minutes), and the Hawks showed the same level of desire from Jump St. as the Preds, which resulted in the names that we're supposed to see scattered all about the scoresheet present. Patrick Sharp opened the scoring with a power play put-back in the first, Jonathan Toews harpooned a Marian Hossa centering feed in the second, and Sharp would bookend the scoring with a wicked wrister from the high slot that was blown by Rinne. At the other end, Antti Niemi made it stand up with his second shutout of the post season. Some thoughts -
- While the attempts to clear their own zone are still leaving a lot to be desired, we finally got what we were looking for in a north-south game through the neutral zone, and board presence in the Nashville zone, and Toews's goal from Hossa was a direct result of that. While we cheered derisively when it happened, even Kris Versteeg was on board dumping the puck in and going to get it, and it could probably be counted on one hand the number of times things got too cute in neutral ice at the Nashville blue line. This is exactly the way this needs to continue.
- At the other end of the ice, the breakouts and clearing attempts are still being snuffed out, and there's a couple reasons for this. One - the wingers are once again drifting up near the blue line waiting for the initial pass. I don't know how many fucking times it needs to be said, but get your asses on the wall and at the hash marks to close that gap. The smaller that gap, the less room there is for a Nashville stick to get in the passing lane. Additionally, the defensemen need to not force the play toward the wingers. Take a hit if need be, take a stride, and take a look. Just throwing it up the boards has resulted in what we've seen so far- this certainly isn't the first time the Hawks have faced a dogged forecheck.
- While we're on the subject of defensemen...Soupy looked fine, if just a little (understandably) tentative in his return well ahead of schedule. He seemed to take his few bumps with Nashville forwards, as well as their seamless glass that has zero give well. He even pinched a couple times, but we'll know he's fully back when he breaks out his first ill-advised spin-o-rama. However, Duncan Keith has seemingly reverted to his 2009-post-concussion decision-making process, as shown by his giveaway that nearly ended up in the back of the Hawk net attempting a home run pass. This could very well be a case of Keith attempting to do too much come playoff time. Keep it simple, Duncs.
- In other lineup transplant news, Adam Burish provided the energy he was supposed to, and Bryan Bickell was servicable. While Burish's game is severely limited in a lot of areas, it's pretty clear that it's tailor-made for the post season, assuming he can keep himself out of the box.
- Antti Niemi was rarely seriously tested, and if Nashville actually had 33 shots on net last night, then I'm demure, well-groomed, and preternaturally hung.
- Whether Patrick Sharp likes it or not, he's the team's #2 center. There are far bigger indignities than centering Marian Hossa, however. "Face it Happy, YOU ARE A GOLFER".
- There cannot be any come-down from this effort on Saturday afternoon, particularly from the Captain, in what will be the biggest game of the season to this point. Toews was once again strong on the puck and strong against the wall last night, and it's clear the Hawks need that. It's been a pretty simple equation all season long- as Toews goes, so go the Hawks. Keep it coming, Jonny.
- Thank you once again to the truly wonderful Maria and Sergio at The Whirlaway for allowing us to be foul, weird, and drunk in their establishment.
While it would have been fitting to give the award to Antti Niemi, who posted his second win and shutout of the playoffs last night, the award goes to Shooter, who potted two goals that gave the second line some punch and provided the scoring depth that made the Hawks so dangerous earlier in the year.
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Presence!
The fact that Soupy was playing had to bolster everyone in the locker room last night. If a guy with a broken clavicle can play, knowing that he risks re-injuring it with the tough Nashville checking, you’d think that the message to the rest of the boys was “leave it all out there!” Maybe this was the wake up call.
I have tickets to the Hawks fourth home playoff game. I’m hoping they are for the opening game of the second round.
"...about six feet from the moose's butt."
by The Fearless Freep on Apr 23, 2010 8:49 AM CDT reply actions
I texted a buddy
in the 3rd: “I take back every bad thing I’ve ever said about 51.” And believe me, I’ve said a lot of very bad things about Phantom.
Is $7.25M/year still a bit steep? Sure, but that’s not his fault. Does the all-too-frequent spin-o-rama still lead to a face-palm? Yeah. Will pucks still magically jump over his stick at the offensive zone blue line. Probably.
The bottom line is he manned up and got out there when his team needed him. He did not shy away from contact (anymore than he ever did) along the boards, and showed his teammates what he thought about the importance of showing up and making sacrifices. That was, quite simply, fucking huge.
teaching respect for the Indian, one Red Wing fan at a time.
Props to the phantom
Although it’s really a stabilizer bone. It had to hurt like hell with about every movement. Yet he was out there before a lot of guys would have been back to their office jobs. WAY TO MAN UP!
by activestick on Apr 23, 2010 11:38 AM CDT up reply actions
The other center
Well then I have to ask the question… What do you see them doing with Bolland? Let Madden go and have him play the checking role? He is paid too much to be a limited 4th line role.
As we say in these circles...
That’s a discussion for next year, and we’ll run over that kitten when we get to it.
It's a bird, it's a plane, it's a goddamn shame.
What do you see them doing with Bolland? Let Madden go and have him play the checking role?
Well next year is next year but Madden has really worn down this year. He currently has a one year contract and its looking like a one and done for him.
Bolland still isn’t fully back from the back injury so playing third line center makes sense. And since Legwand was hurting them, the Hawks coach needs Bolland to play against him when 3’s play 3’s.
Sharp is the best choice right now for second line center but that is the best choice with this current team. Long term you might see a Beach, Toews, Hossa top line with Sharp and Kane as wings on the second line and a second line center that is not currently in the organization.
Kane is such a unique skilled player that he really needs a particular type of center. Basically a Tony O’s brother type. One of those big old boy centers that really plays power forward and crashes the net. Anyway, that stuff is really something to be dealt with in the future.
For now Sharp is the second line center and he should be. This is the toughest middle top to bottom that the Hawks can play.
I'm pretty sure
Mrs Madden really did castrate him after that Limo incident. That’s GOT to take a toll on a guys performance (no pun intended).
teaching respect for the Indian, one Red Wing fan at a time.
MABBLES
TAKE OFF THOSE CLOWN SHOES OR I WILL SHOOT THIS DOG!
by BigCSouthside on Apr 23, 2010 10:03 AM CDT up reply actions
I hate to say it
But you just described Ryan Kesler. Kane was very good with him in the Olympics.
One of those big old boy centers that really plays power forward and crashes the net. Anyway, that stuff is really something to be dealt with in the future./blockquote>
by HungryHungryPanda on Apr 23, 2010 9:59 AM CDT up reply actions
The thought of Kesler on this team
makes my sphincter tighten.
(Excuse me while I go meditate to try and relax.)
"You don't wanna show me nothin'. But you're tellin' me everything."
I guess it would be like taking your medicine
when I was a kid.
Just hold your nose, swallow and hope you don’t gag.
(insert sick depraved joke/one liner here)
"You don't wanna show me nothin'. But you're tellin' me everything."
Exactly!
Hockey is a man's game. The team with the most real men wins.
by cliffkoroll on Apr 23, 2010 11:24 AM CDT up reply actions
Bolland
I think he’s received a lot of pressure since coming back from his injury and the large contract he signed in the offseason. I’m a firm believer that he is worth every penny, and a truly great center. He just needs more time to get his legs back.
by hawkjack on Apr 23, 2010 10:37 AM CDT up reply actions 1 recs
The same question was asked this summer in Montreal...
Whether or not to keep Tomas Plekanec.
Most wanted him out of Montreal despite having one year left on his current deal and at the end of it would still be a RFA (restricted free agent). Gainey, by some members of the media, was scorned for not dealing Plekanec on draft day that he could’ve got something for what was deemed a “3rd line centre” that would never fit the role of 2nd line centre.
Well, all Plekanec did was lead the Habs in scoring this season with 70 points notching 25 goals. Needless to say it was wise of Gainey to keep him.
And that’s where I see Bolland. Sure he’s had back trouble for most of this season and hasn’t looked like his usual self but keep in mind that this is his 3rd full season with this team and that he has a ton of room to grow. He’s was a prolific scorer in junior and has shown glimpses of it in the past (Vancouver series) and will be an essential piece to this team as the years go by and thus shouldn’t be dealt away. Just my opinion, but I see Bolland having a Brouwer kind of breakout season in 2010-11.
2010 PLAYOFFS: ROUND ONE
The triumphant achievement or death sentence for the Niemisis.
True Facts
Soupy had a hit!
Also, Sharpie and Panda had the highest Mutual +/- among forwards in the regular season at +13. For all the hand wringing we did over Coach Q’s line shuffling, I was really glad he pulled this one off.
I thought Bickell played great too, but I do worry that the good stuff may overshadow stuff like Kopecky being, well, Kopecky. Not sure he belongs up on the 2nd line, partly because he’s also helped get the 4th line to click. I thought the 4th line became more defensively minded with the addition of Madden, and Burish looked a little rusty but was okay.
2nd on Bickel
Thought he was a bit more than serviceable. Crashed the net that led to the power play that put the Hawks ahead.
Gotta give the stache some credit here. Bickel seems like a good choice in this series.
Hockey is a man's game. The team with the most real men wins.
And in every game that he's played going back to late in the reg season
he’s outplayed Brouwer IMO. Not to bash Brouwer, but he’s looked “soft” as of late. I’ve been begging for Bickell for quite a while. Didn’t expect to see him on the top line in a million years though, but he looked good. Some nice hits and net presence.
Well, folks, I want to thank you for being here for the recording of my live comedy album. Funny material and laughter will be dubbed in later.
by ChicagoNativeSon on Apr 23, 2010 10:47 AM CDT up reply actions
I got a little worried about Bickell
the last game of the season vs SCUM. He did NOT have a good game and made some bad mistakes. Good news is that seems to be a “one off”. I’m looking forward to watching his play on Saturday and seeing how he does away from the puck.
rookies are usually inconsistant early on
Bickell has generally looked quite good (given his limitations) in each other appearance he’s had.
I expect him to be here all year next year
Confusion will be my epitaph.
yeah
and if Beach comes up assuming we keep some of the big guys we got, I don’t think we’ll have to be worried about toughness anymore. Could be an interesting change in team personality next year… more toughness with the speed and skill. But…I digress from this year’s ONE GOAL…..
Really?
He’s been in the minors a while hasn’t he…..and seems he cut out a lot of the BS this year. Why do you say that?
Lets see how he handles Rockford first
I think he still has at least a year. I’m guess he is only 19 or 20? Not sure, but if he plays well next year there, i’m assuming he might see a few games at the NHL level
Beach was playing Major Junior still this year
I figure he will be in Rockford for at least next season
Confusion will be my epitaph.
My thoughts...
Love. Bryan. Bickell. The kid has balls and is willing to pay the price to get the puck into and out of the zone. Something that was drastically missing tin he first 3 games.
2010 PLAYOFFS: ROUND ONE
The triumphant achievement or death sentence for the Niemisis.
I feel he is serviceable at best
Not what I would prefer to have, however, if he can create opportunities and help the big guys on line one get the puck to the net, than im fine with him
TAKE OFF THOSE CLOWN SHOES OR I WILL SHOOT THIS DOG!
by BigCSouthside on Apr 23, 2010 4:36 PM CDT up reply actions
Thirded. I thought Bickell played great. Had some good hits, good decisions, and his size and skating had a lot to do with that line’s north-south game. He’s not going to tally the points Brouwer might, and I do love Brow, but Bickell looked better up there in my opinion. Brouwer also took an absolutely bone-headed penalty in the third that could have made the final 10 minutes much more scary.
Also, I have to say it, I’m coming around on Kopecky. He’s not an offensive master, and there will be bad decisions from him still, no doubt, but he’s definitely looked stronger of late.
Buff with the puck on his stick makes me bite through my lip. He looked great on the rush, horrible in his own end.
www.mjt.org
i was WAY off
Kopecky only lost his helmet once last night that I could see. whoever took the under, i got the first round.
"...can i have a glass of whiskey and a slice of bread?"
But he lost
an edge at least 2x that i can directly recall
September 26, 2007 The day a Franchise was reborn.
And it was a punch from behind
to the back of the grape that knocked it off.
teaching respect for the Indian, one Red Wing fan at a time.
Well, throw in a 4th for Bickell. There’s just something I like about a guy playing for the right to don the sweater the next game. And he notched the secondary assist (which should really just be renamed the Henrik Sedin) on that second goal. It also bears mentioning that Sopel played possibly the best game I’ve ever seen him play on the Hawks, especially given the increased ice time he saw. Though for the camera’s sake, maybe they should’ve skipped that postgame interview.
by Hjammer of the Gods on Apr 23, 2010 9:26 AM CDT up reply actions
completely agree on Sopel
he was a shot blocking machine, great on the PK, and didn’t really get caught out of position that I can remember. I would like him to clear the puck better though. If I’m remembering correctly, he was one having trouble getting it completely out. But still, great game from Catfish!
by Katherine215 on Apr 23, 2010 9:31 AM CDT up reply actions
There was on epoint on the PK that he decided to go up the boards rather than right up the middle and he failed to clear it out and i wanted to tear his heart out. The i yelled at what i thought was him on the Delay of game, since he’s done it before and it turned out to be Bolland.LOL
Overall he’s been good though, He’s reckless abandon for his body his great
September 26, 2007 The day a Franchise was reborn.
Like i said
i was still raging over his failure to clear. And I know for a fact that Sopel has tried to loft the puck out of the zone only to send it into the Stands.
Did i mention i was drinking too?
September 26, 2007 The day a Franchise was reborn.
Gotta remember Sopel is Sopel
There’s only so much he can do. That said, if everyone on the Hawks played to their abilities and tried as hard as he does, we’d be sitting waiting for the next round right now. Two thumbs up for Sopel.
You mean two whiskers up
for the Catfish!
Soldier, how did you get so close to me? Sniper approached the instructor by being a sneaky bastard, Sergeant Major!
by thepuckstopshere31 on Apr 23, 2010 3:12 PM CDT up reply actions
Sopel
He is a fabulous shot blocker and he is fearless. However, when he has to handle the puck he always makes me nervous.
True
I thought that he was awesome at getting in the way of the puck. He played I think the whole 5 on 3 (could be because he can’t move fast enough to get out the way) but he played solid all night. I agree he does make me nervous when trying to handle the puck or clearing it out of the zone, but at least I see him making the effort to cover up the mistake.
I haven't been able to get on the Sopel bandwagon
even though there have been a number of things he’s done really, really well and for a while I couldn’t put into words why. I think the best way to describe his play is that when the other team has the puck he is an excellent defender, but it’s also true that when Sopel is on the ice the other team tends to have the puck an awful lot, and that’s not a coincidence.
Sopel’s great on the PK because it’s expected that the other team will have the puck, but his even strenght ice time is frustrating to watch.
"Sopel’s great on the PK because it’s expected that the other team will have the puck, but his even strength ice time is frustrating to watch."
That sums it up. But on the PK he really does do one hell of a job… We should keep him as a “special teams” player.
True, but that's why 25% of Sopel's ice time is supposed to be on the PK
Basically at this point in his career, he’s a PK specialist who has been forced to play additional roles/minutes because of the Hawks injury situation. Not his fault. I loved watching him float back and forth in the shooting lanes during the Preds 5 on 3. No fear.
Let’s put it this way, asking Sopes to be in the top 4 pairings is like asking Buff to play defense – or was it offense?? I’m so confused.
Well, folks, I want to thank you for being here for the recording of my live comedy album. Funny material and laughter will be dubbed in later.
by ChicagoNativeSon on Apr 23, 2010 10:54 AM CDT up reply actions
Sopel played really well
And that’s all i’m saying about that this time.
by puppetmasterp on Apr 23, 2010 12:19 PM CDT up reply actions
Bickell
Looked like a different player last night then he did in that game against Detroit. I was worried we would see the same hesitant, caught out of position rookie we saw in his last time out, but he was a pleasant surprise playing aggressively, getting to the net, and not being caught out of position that I saw all night. He plays like that I’d gladly have him in there of the Eager we saw in games 1-3 who did NOTHING.
by runningquicklynowhere on Apr 23, 2010 10:00 AM CDT up reply actions
Every time I’ve seen him, excepting the Detroit game, he’s been impressive. He can’t do anything great yet, but he’ll do whatever he has to do (or is asked to do) with a consistent degree of competency. Anti-Eager, if you will.
by Hjammer of the Gods on Apr 23, 2010 10:02 AM CDT up reply actions
true
The Detroit game was the worst I have seen him, but I was worried cause it was a big game and the last time we sawe him. Glad it seemed to be a one time thing.
by runningquicklynowhere on Apr 23, 2010 10:07 AM CDT up reply actions
and he's got 3 goals in 5 games this season
that’s an impressive stat in itself
by hawkswin!hawkswin! on Apr 23, 2010 10:09 AM CDT up reply actions
Kopecky
I still think he has a lot of upside potential. I don’t mind checking out how his play develops with the upgrade to a better center and other winger. He could surprise.
I'm not so sure
He’s 28, which is not old by any measure, but other than his fantastic wrist shot I’m seeing deficiencies he may not overcome. Serviceable, with some great flashes at times, but I don’t see him as a top-6 forward on the Hawks, ever.
I think at his pay grade
a 3rd line career would be about right. And
Serviceable, with some great flashes at times
is perfectly acceptable provided they don’t throw any more money at him.
teaching respect for the Indian, one Red Wing fan at a time.
Then again
he DID do pretty well on an almost bronze medal Olympic team when he had good players on his line. Not getting a Kopecky jersey mind you, but “great flashes at times” is the interesting part above. Given we agree that he has great flash ability, what is preventing that from occurring more often? Experience? Lack of effort? Need for other than 4th line team mates? Q’s coaching? Planetary alignment?
Just sayin worth watching vs. sending him to the press box next game as some have suggested.
Keith
Not quite as disturbing as the sci-fi Pred erotica pic, but disturbing nonetheless.
OTOH, the Hawks throw down a blank with Dunc playing like that? I’ll take it.
Hockey is a man's game. The team with the most real men wins.
Heh, good point.
I really am concerned, though, going forward, how much difficulty we’re having clearing our zone against a good forecheck. Granted, the Preds have one of the best. But Christ, I’d love it if we could at least look mildly calm and poised. We’re frantic down there, and if the Preds had some consistent scoring in their lines, that forecheck would be our death.
www.mjt.org
Scoring first sure helped...
Getting the lead (and particularly after the second goal) went a long way towards opening up the ice. Forcing Nashville to press a little more on the forecheck really helps our cause.
"...the internet is not something you just dump something on. It's not a truck. It's a series of tubes." - Sen. Ted Stevens
On the plus side
If we play well the next 2 games and win this series, having the experience of going against this forecheck will pay big dividends in later rounds methinks. I’m not sure any other team in the playoffs are as good as Nashville in that area.
Yes, we need this
Seriously, if we lose, we obviously didn’t deserve it anyway. And considering we don’t play many games like this during the regular season, if other coaches were watching for ways to beat us, hopefully we’ll have this covered.
Yup
Just another weapon in the arsenal
by Hjammer of the Gods on Apr 23, 2010 12:09 PM CDT up reply actions
Agree on Pred forecheck
I now understand why Chris Burton was pulling his hair out over the “trap” label.
Hockey is a man's game. The team with the most real men wins.
by cliffkoroll on Apr 23, 2010 12:22 PM CDT up reply actions
Well
good fore check doesn’t mean no trap ;-)
not interested in rehashing semantics
I stand by my comment.
Hockey is a man's game. The team with the most real men wins.
The deuce
should buy Niemi a busload of hookers for bailing him out on that turnover and saving his ass.
teaching respect for the Indian, one Red Wing fan at a time.
by 334Rules on Apr 23, 2010 10:00 AM CDT up reply actions 1 recs
The whole team should chip in
Niemi is looking like a 5-year NHL goalie out there. That’s a damm man in net.
SCH Resident Idiot
Success is our only mother f*&#ing option, failure's not
by Johnny Lava on Apr 23, 2010 10:08 AM CDT up reply actions 1 recs
Best post of the thread.
I mean last 20 threads.
larry. A kind word for everyone.
I'm gonna have to ask you to keep that in your pants...
…for the next seversal weeks yet.
Thank you.
Hockey is a man's game. The team with the most real men wins.
by cliffkoroll on Apr 23, 2010 11:28 AM CDT up reply actions
I'm absolutely convinced that Keith and Toews are both feeling the vast majority of the pressure on this team.
It shows in the way that Toews took faceoffs yesterday (a little too desperate, he got thrown out at least three times, which I don’t usually expect from him) and the way that Keith sometimes made defensive decisions. In a lot of ways, I think the whole team still needs to settle down a lot, and Keith and Toews are presently symptomatic of that.
by spokeinthebandwagon on Apr 23, 2010 10:14 AM CDT up reply actions
if true
that’s some poor leadership. Again.. wtf is Madden here for if not to help the kids with how to stay composed at this stage
SCH Resident Idiot
Success is our only mother f*&#ing option, failure's not
by Johnny Lava on Apr 23, 2010 10:25 AM CDT up reply actions
Re Toews.
He’s 22.
larry. A kind word for everyone.
he's also wearing the C
I love Tazer (he’s replaced JHC as my man-crush) but that’s not an ornament
SCH Resident Idiot
Success is our only mother f*&#ing option, failure's not
by Johnny Lava on Apr 23, 2010 11:40 AM CDT up reply actions
And Duncs is wearing the A
They’re being asked to lead and you can kind of tell they’re pressing a bit. Somebody mentioned (forget if it was here or on OtF) that Hossa is incredibly patient and unfazeable, and I’m hoping our leaders can develop that quality.
The "C" takes experience to do it well.
He can’t do anything about that.
He’ll get there.
larry. A kind word for everyone.
They both showed they can deliver under pressure...
…in the Olympics, but I agree the two of them haven’t been quite right this series.
YET!
Hockey is a man's game. The team with the most real men wins.
by cliffkoroll on Apr 23, 2010 11:30 AM CDT up reply actions
Honestly, I wonder about that
I have to wonder if the Olympics pressure is overstated. Sure, it’s an international competition and you’re playing for your country, but none of our guys were being asked to lead or carry the team. There wasn’t as much pressure, relatively — and they were able to excel.
Here, they may only have to carry a city, rather than a country (though, isn’t Chicagoland like, as populated as Canada?) but they’re not playing with superstars / other team captains. Plus, it’s the SCP, which is still kind of a big deal, considering the money too.
good point
At first thought, you would think the Olympic pressures would easily be greater than or equal to NHL pressures. But, with the Olympic teams, its kind of like a clean slate. I mean sure, there are expectations that each player has for himself, but there is not really any reference point because the player isn’t playing in the context of his usual teammates.
1 game vs series
I think pressure builds over a series rather than a one-and-done type tourney
SCH Resident Idiot
Success is our only mother f*&#ing option, failure's not
by Johnny Lava on Apr 23, 2010 12:30 PM CDT up reply actions
I'd say this knife cuts both ways...
…in some ways, one and done is more pressure-packed.
Hockey is a man's game. The team with the most real men wins.
by cliffkoroll on Apr 23, 2010 12:32 PM CDT up reply actions
I think there is somethng in what you say...
but the Canadian players themselves made many references to the Olympic pressure.
In Vancouver, there was no getting away from the pressure and expectations. Friends, family, EVERYONE in the street. It’s ubiquitous.
Chicago’s not like that. Great fans, but still a largely oblivious city. Off the ice, it’s easier to get away from.
On the ice, 2 and 19 are being asked to do more than in the Olympics, but it’s not like they’re surrounded by a bunch of slouches.
Hockey is a man's game. The team with the most real men wins.
by cliffkoroll on Apr 23, 2010 12:30 PM CDT up reply actions
I have just one thing to say about chicago sports fans
At least the douchy tourist ones like the ones i saw last night:
I go to the bar just before puck drops. All the TVs appear to be taken, two of them with the Red Sox game and the Cubs game. And the Chicago fans watching the cubs game reused to change it. I did however get the 3rd tv changed to Comcast.
AND I WAS THE ONLY ONE WATCHING THE HAWKS! Then some ultra-douche walked in and loudly complained “HOCKEY! They have hockey on???” He wanted to watch basketball. Later on, the Red Sox game got changed to the Bulls game, though he was glaring at me for taking up a precious tv all by myself, and all i was thinking was “You can change this tv over my dead body!”
No i don’t like the Cubs, but even if it was the White Sox, they both suck and it’s the beginning of the season. And does anybody think the Bulls are going to make it past a series with the Cavs? The Hawks are leaps and bounds the best team in town, and these idiots not only couldn’t support them, they got mad at me for doing so.
To quote Chris Burton: “l;gk’phyjplgpmidtp’hks ;s ,/’;kdjwakl wj!!!!!!!!!!!!”
ok, rant over
by puppetmasterp on Apr 23, 2010 1:02 PM CDT up reply actions
I'll be honest
I became a hockey fan after randomly flipping channels and seeing the ’Hawks play playoff hockey for 5 minutes against Calgary last year.
This, at the same time of year as when the Bulls were actually fun to watch, and I’ve been watching them since I was a kid (for the record, I couldn’t even get myself to watch them this year).
If only people had the patience/open-mindedness to give it a shot for just that long, they might see the light…. sigh
try not to let this go to your head :)
but for someone who only started getting into hockey a year ago, you have learned a lot about this game in a relatively short time. I mean, A LOT.
SHhhhhhhhhh!!!!!!
keep talking like that and the 3 alcoholics will start charging tuition
Lies!
Everything I know is about the 2009-2010 ’Hawks… I know nothing about “hockey.”
I believe in the power of a community like this transferring knowledge by osmosis, though. That and the fact that I get way too much into stuff that I find interesting and/or fun.
this tourist bar in Antigua, Guatemala
i’m pretty sure it’s the only one in town with versus and CSN. The clientel changes a bit week to week, so hopefully these asshats have moved on in thier travels by Saturday.
by puppetmasterp on Apr 23, 2010 1:17 PM CDT up reply actions
Be kind
Red Sox and Cub fans caught a disease for which there is no known cure….not their fault. Plus the first 20 or so games of the season are the FUN and HOPEFUL ones for Cub fans. Be happy for the past 100 years we haven’t had to worry about turning off a Cub game in October to see the start of the hockey season.
But on the flip side of the coin, I can’t imagine if the Cubs were in the playoffs and there was an early season old Wirtz/Pulford Hawks team playing after going 5-9 or whatever that’d I’d be pud headed enough to argue I want to watch THAT instead.
in their defense
baseball is the american past time. speaking as someone who’s spent a lot of time abroad with other expat, we all tended to flock to our home teams (at least the cubs, sox, and bosox fans i knew) when staving off any homesick blues. then again, we were all out of the country for the better part of a year. i’m not sure what these tourist douchebags are trying to do.
hockey, while important to many americans, rarely reaches the level of a homesick cure. for canadians, it’s a bit different.
again, you might feel differently, but this is what i have observed.
(170 g) * (3x10^8 m/s)^2 = 1.5x10^16 J
two weeks-ish?
ahnfire’s getting really mad at me for leaving her
by puppetmasterp on Apr 23, 2010 1:54 PM CDT up reply actions
I don't blame her
and you’re missing all the fun! Soupy even beat you back.
by Katherine215 on Apr 23, 2010 1:58 PM CDT up reply actions
yes he did!!!
had to go and make me look like a wuss didn’t he? Does he even add anything to the Hawks game when he’s on the ice?
(for those who missed it, I hit the sarcasm button there. I don’t want to start a boring rehashed argument)
by puppetmasterp on Apr 23, 2010 2:53 PM CDT up reply actions
AND for asking me to do things I hate
book your ticket back now. I fulfilled my end of the bargain.
Also, the Hawks game buddy that I got as a replacement is a jinx. All the games we’ve watched together so far have been a loss. So now I can’t watch games with her either.
I already told her
that we can’t watch games together until next year.
Luckily she understands because she’s even more superstitious than I am.
my hockey buddy is leaving the country on me, too
only for like a week, but I’m still not sure how this is going to play out.
I’d volunteer to be your hockey buddy, but we don’t have a great record, either.
Time for some thrillin' heroics!
I approve of this theory...
…on general grounds.
Hockey is a man's game. The team with the most real men wins.
I have to wonder if the Olympics pressure is overstated. Sure, it’s an international competition and you’re playing for your country, but none of our guys were being asked to lead or carry the team.
It didn’t matter. Everyone had to contribute and lead Canada to the gold. Once Toews became the man of the team as the checking line centre he had to bring his A-game every shift of every game.
The pressure wasn’t overrated. Not by the slightest. If Canada continued to play poorly as they did in the first 3 games and didn’t win a medal, the players may have not made it out alive. The scrutiny placed upon this team was enormous.
The pressure to win a Cup in Chicago pails in comparison to having to win GOLD for Canada at the Olympics (ask Yzerman or Lemieux). And at home? That’s pressure my friend.
2010 PLAYOFFS: ROUND ONE
The triumphant achievement or death sentence for the Niemisis.
random question
are you ever going to type gold in lower case letters when referring to Canada?
by Katherine215 on Apr 23, 2010 4:57 PM CDT up reply actions 2 recs
Maybe in 4 years ;)
I’ll type STANLEY CUP as well if the ’Hawks were ever to win it.
2010 PLAYOFFS: ROUND ONE
The triumphant achievement or death sentence for the Niemisis.
planning to lose to Team USA in 4 years? ;)
by Katherine215 on Apr 23, 2010 5:04 PM CDT up reply actions
AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH
DONT SAY IT!
TAKE OFF THOSE CLOWN SHOES OR I WILL SHOOT THIS DOG!
by BigCSouthside on Apr 23, 2010 5:06 PM CDT up reply actions
and now we have a scapegoat
way to be the scapegoat, canada guy
(170 g) * (3x10^8 m/s)^2 = 1.5x10^16 J
BLAME CANADA
TAKE OFF THOSE CLOWN SHOES OR I WILL SHOOT THIS DOG!
by BigCSouthside on Apr 23, 2010 5:15 PM CDT up reply actions
very funny, both of you...
…anybody else notice the superstition-meter dialing way up?
It’s gettin’ that I don’t trust myself to type anything more than ‘a’.
(c’mon- teed way up.)
Hockey is a man's game. The team with the most real men wins.
Aren’t I always the target around here.
I didn’t say “will” I said “if”. Notice the “if”.
2010 PLAYOFFS: ROUND ONE
The triumphant achievement or death sentence for the Niemisis.
you're not always the target
fuck, you’ve never been a target on the level of Esquire02. you’re more of eh friendly banter companion who shares our views on all things except the Gold Medal Game.
(170 g) * (3x10^8 m/s)^2 = 1.5x10^16 J
30 Minutes in Game 3
Probably accounted for the majority of Keith’s miscues last night. That’s a tall order to play that much, and then deliver on expectations for what was arguably the most important game of the season last night.
Fully confident that with a day in between, he’ll get the rest he needs for Game 5. Campbell being back will also nibble at some of his minutes as his ice time increases.
agree
Last game I said he was the only one playing with heart. This game, I thought he looked like the worst one out there. But if that’ll get us another shut out, i’ll take it.
by puppetmasterp on Apr 23, 2010 12:23 PM CDT up reply actions
We still got a way to go*
Much closer than the score indicated, IMO.
The Hawks lost several games like this during the season. Nashville was buzzing the net and controlling play in the 2nd- then the Toews goal cracked a couple vertebrae.
Like a horror movie, the Preds struggled to their feet and pounded away a bit more, before Sharp and Rinne brought the curtain down, sparing us a 3rd period glass chew. Whew!
I’m taking a vow of silence, resting my throat until 2PM Saturday.
*The Brave Litte Toaster
Hockey is a man's game. The team with the most real men wins.
by cliffkoroll on Apr 23, 2010 9:09 AM CDT reply actions 2 recs
Rec'd
for TBLT reference. One of my favorite movies from childhood.
by puppetmasterp on Apr 23, 2010 12:31 PM CDT up reply actions
After the second goal, particularly
I think they really smelled blood in the water and played their hardest/most aggressive shifts of the night. It was seriously fun to actually see the Hawks play like “we’re not done burying you yet”. Then, in the third, they played the puck ala Biff Tannen in Back to the Future 2: “You want it!?…GO GET IT! ahaha!”
Here’s to hoping, as McClure said, we see this kinda style on Saturday afternoon!
"What the hell, let's review it." - Dale Tallon
"They are!" - Pat Foley
"What a farce." - Dale Tallon
Never thought a Back to the Future reference would be relevant to a hockey game. Nice work.
I am just glad that I will be able to watch the game Saturday. Versus never left the Penguins game last night and the Hawks game, despite starting 90 minutes later, ended before the Penguins game.
"Every player should be accorded the privilege of at least one season with the Chicago Cubs. That's baseball as it should be played - in God's own sunshine. And that's really living." -- Alvin Dark
Might be my favorite Biff moment
I know there’s a ton of great moments in the series, but throwing the ball away from the kids, albeit a very dick move (which is Biff Tannen) was pretty hilarious. I just happened to think of it every time the Hawks chipped into the Preds zone again and again in the third.
"What the hell, let's review it." - Dale Tallon
"They are!" - Pat Foley
"What a farce." - Dale Tallon
Were that mobile phones had a "rec" button...
I’d rec the shit outta this.
Rock Over London
Rock on Chicago
Diet Pepsi
Uh-Huh!
by Campbell32 on Apr 23, 2010 1:53 PM CDT via mobile up reply actions
My thoughts...
Unlike the win in game 2, i actually feel pretty good about this one. I’m predicting that the saturday game will be very enjoyable. There were inklings of the solid play we’ve all come to know and love.
- What the hell dunc? Some needs to give this guy a massage before the game or something. Could he be any jumpier?
- Top scorers starting to look dangerous. Hossa was good yesterday and showed flashes of his dominating ability in the o-zone. Still want more, though.
- Pretty quiet game from kane, even though he factored into the first goal. I guess that is what happens when you don’t have to carry the entire offense.
- We’re still getting a little too cute sometimes. Ladd and bolland had some really nice looking passes that lead to a really bad turnover.
- If Sopel continues this play and if he’s on the team next year, i will, in all seriousness, consider a sopel jersey.
- Perhaps soupy is UNDER-priced?
- For all those who though this team’s goaltending and power play were their weaknesses, you’re stupid. Oh wait, that’s all of us… ehhh, comment still stands.
one more thing...
Even though i don’t think it’s been a deciding factor in any of the games. I think we’re seeing the effect of not committing to checking at all during the regular season. It’s like blackhawks pinball out there.
Also, that was a pretty dirty hit from kopecky and he’s damn luck the guy wasn’t hurt.
I didn't think it was dirty
It looked like he caught the guy off balance. If you watch the replay, Kope even tries to “help” him land gently. But you’re right that it could have ended up as a major and a game.
I fart in your general direction. Your mother was a hamster and your father smelt of elderberries.
I thought Kop could have pulled up a bit...
…but this play is a classic example of a player mishandling a puck and getting a free “time out” by turning his back on the play. Of course, you can’t have guys getting run from behind, but there are unintended consequences to this protection.
Hockey is a man's game. The team with the most real men wins.
a classic example of a player mishandling a puck and getting a free "time out" by turning his back on the play
44.1 Checking from Behind – A check from behind is a check delivered on a player who is not aware of the impending hit, therefore unable to protect or defend himself, and contact is made on the back part of the body. When a player intentionally turns his body to create contact with his back, no penalty shall be assessed.
I agree with you. The way the ref’s seem to call situations where a player like Klein turns his back on the checker is to NOT award the major penalty. They still will call a minor.
Going back to the Seabrook Wiz situation, it was Perry turning his back on the checker that got him rung up by Seabrook. That resulted in Wiz taking that run at Seabrook. To me Perry cost Wiz 8 games pay…
Agreed!
Preventing injuries is one thing, but there was an article somewhere that because players are NOT bracing for that hit from behind they are getting hurt MORE than before. Now the turn at the last minute is akin to the old diving ploys. It’d be nice if this:
When a player intentionally turns his body to create contact with his back, no penalty shall be assessed.
actually was called a penalty
I concur
I don’t think it was meant to be dirty at all. Klein lost the puck in his feet close to the boards, where a hit would have been into the boards high, instead he skated backwards away form the boars to find it and that’s when Kopekcy hit him. His distance form the boards at that pint is what was dangerous.
Penalty? Absolutely but there was absoultely no intent there by Kopecky
September 26, 2007 The day a Franchise was reborn.
No intent to injure for sure
Given that it looked like he was checking up on him afterward. I think you could argue that one either way (2 or 5 mins)… make-up call for the Wiz hit? That one was a minor!
I was shocked
but happy that it wasn’t a major. Not because it may have been dirty (it wasn’t) but because of the new rules and the fact he went face first into the boards.
it was one of those “Hell yeah!! Oh shit!!” type plays
SCH Resident Idiot
Success is our only mother f*&#ing option, failure's not
by Johnny Lava on Apr 23, 2010 10:00 AM CDT up reply actions
i like this Kliein guy though
lets see more of him out there saturday please
"...can i have a glass of whiskey and a slice of bread?"
by west_fulton on Apr 23, 2010 10:01 AM CDT up reply actions
umm. Klein. yeah thats it.
"...can i have a glass of whiskey and a slice of bread?"
by west_fulton on Apr 23, 2010 10:03 AM CDT up reply actions
Best part is I think he lost it in his feet when he turned to look to see Kopecky coming…
by runningquicklynowhere on Apr 23, 2010 10:03 AM CDT up reply actions
Very ironic that of all people Kopecky hits him
after a Benny Hill type play on Klein’s part
Well, folks, I want to thank you for being here for the recording of my live comedy album. Funny material and laughter will be dubbed in later.
by ChicagoNativeSon on Apr 23, 2010 11:04 AM CDT up reply actions
I'm not sure where I stand on the Kopecky hit
due to a terminal case of homerism. I don’t think he was anticipating the guy losing the puck and turning like he did to recover it.
I also appreciated that his initial reaction was an “oh shit” and in one of the replays it looked like Kop was trying to stop his head from hitting the ice.
But goddamn, my jaw hurts just thinking about that hit.
Time for some thrillin' heroics!
by shinkicker on Apr 23, 2010 9:30 AM CDT via mobile up reply actions
I had to ponder it awhile too. While I can’t get around Klein looking over his shoulder, seeing Kop Killer bearing down on him, and then foolishly turning his back to him, I’m also of the opinion that the forechecker always needs to leave himself an out in that situation. It’s not on par with the recklessness that so many people hate Ovie for, but it’s still a bit irresponsible I guess. Of course, it’s also irresponsible for Klein to do anything like that when he’s in that “no man’s land” area. Square up and take your medicine, unless you don’t like your vertebrae. Put it this way, I wouldn’t have been terribly upset if they rang him up for 5 and a game there, just for the sake of making sure the game and the rest of the series doesn’t get out of hand.
by Hjammer of the Gods on Apr 23, 2010 9:43 AM CDT up reply actions
I don't think he intended to injure the guy
but it’s still a dangerous situation and he should have pulled up. I was surprised he only got 2 for that.
I was on the fence about the Kopecky hit
until I watched the replay.
Kopecky clearly doesn’t mean to hit him wrong, and when he realizes what’s happened, he literally cradles Klein down to the ice, then stays beside him and immediately signals the refs and trainers, which says to me that he didn’t mean to do it, and he’s a classy guy for staying with the hurt opposing player instead of following the puck and making a play.
I’m not usually Kopecky’s biggest fan, but that was an honorable move after the hit last night. I respect him for that.
by spokeinthebandwagon on Apr 23, 2010 10:20 AM CDT up reply actions
Agreed
Very classy. I have new respect for Kop because of it. (not that his general play of late hasn’t earned him more respect also.) I think he could have and should have avoided that hit but he realized his mistake immediately afterwards and his concern was quite apparent.
Major props to Kopecky there. Respect grew for him after that.
We’ve hashed this out to death on OtF, but basically, I think the referee made the right call. It was a bad hit, and certainly boarding. Kopecky obviously didn’t mean to hurt him, and should’ve held up on the play for certain, but after several replays I decided it wasn’t major worthy.
Admittedly, at full speed I was yelling at my TV for him to get tossed- I thought Klein would have to be stretchered off the way it looked before replays.
On the Forecheck/Twitter/CLS
"What do you think this is? Major League Baseball?"- Shea Weber
by Chris Burton on Apr 23, 2010 10:51 AM CDT up reply actions
When I first saw it
I was like “Oh shit, bye bye Kop”
TAKE OFF THOSE CLOWN SHOES OR I WILL SHOOT THIS DOG!
by BigCSouthside on Apr 23, 2010 10:56 AM CDT up reply actions
Same reaction. Was watching with a buddy; I immediately sad ’he’s gone’.
On the Forecheck/Twitter/CLS
"What do you think this is? Major League Baseball?"- Shea Weber
by Chris Burton on Apr 23, 2010 10:58 AM CDT up reply actions
I think he should have been gone, even having watched the replays. It was good of him to relent a bit, and to reach down to try to help … but he made the hit in the first place that caused him to have to try to help.
I doubt it’s the kind of thing that will warrant pay-back, simply because of his “gentlemanly” reaction and Klein having put himself in an awkward spot … but it should have been 5 minutes.
www.mjt.org
I disagree. I would not have been surprised to see it go either way, but I think the right call was made – Klein’s turning his back is what kept it to a minor. Thought had Kop been less “gentlemenly” after the hit, I think he may have been hit with a major/game-misconduct regardless; if for no other reason than to attempt to stave off retaliation.
"...the internet is not something you just dump something on. It's not a truck. It's a series of tubes." - Sen. Ted Stevens
It was the "relent a bit"
that kept him from being a goner, I think.
Intent is a big component on the majors and game misconducts. When you mitigate the appearance of intent, it’s easier to just call the 2.
teaching respect for the Indian, one Red Wing fan at a time.
Klein
may not be with us much longer if he continues to show his numbers like that tho. there are ways to avoid contact and then there are ways to get yourself killed. right call was made IMO.
Klein also popped Koppy later in the 3rd and took care of the obligatory #82 doesnt have his helmet anymore moment for us. dones done.
"...can i have a glass of whiskey and a slice of bread?"
by west_fulton on Apr 23, 2010 12:42 PM CDT up reply actions
This goes back to "players need to protect themselves" bit.
How was Kopecky to know that Klein would commit the cardinal sin and turn his back to the forechecker that far from the boards. I’m sorry, and this may not be popular with some people, but Klein deserved it.
I’m tired of watching players get tossed and/or suspended for plays that the victim could’ve prevented himself. Like Leopold skating with his head down and Sutton nailing him for it. Should he have been thrown out? No.
At some point the responsibility falls at the player’s feet. Klein should’ve known better than to turn his back at the last second to Kopecky. He was lucky that it was Kopecky and not someone like Tuomo Ruutu or Matt Cooke that would’ve pile-drived him through the boards maybe even breaking his neck.
In fact, maybe if the officials would stop overreacting and calling penalties on those plays maybe the player’s themselves would finally get the hint.
2010 PLAYOFFS: ROUND ONE
The triumphant achievement or death sentence for the Niemisis.
I can kinda see what you’re getting at here, but you seriously think Klein deserved it? Don’t think Kopecky should’ve held up at all?
On the Forecheck/Twitter/CLS
"What do you think this is? Major League Baseball?"- Shea Weber
by Chris Burton on Apr 24, 2010 8:44 AM CDT up reply actions
Don’t think Kopecky should’ve held up at all?
Maybe, but Kopecky has to play a physical role on this team.
I was just trying to present the arguement that it’s not all the hitter’s responsibility when it comes down to these types of hits that the hittee has to take some share of the blame.
As I was watching the Wings and Yotes Game 5 Darren Dreger said the ‘Canes GM Jim Rutherford has been pushing to dissolve the ’hitting from behind’ rule that players need to start taking responsibility for putting themselves into those situations. TSN’s panel of analysts basically put all the blame on Klein for putting himself in a vulnerable position. Can’t say as if I blame them there. Now other views – not so much.
2010 PLAYOFFS: ROUND ONE
The triumphant achievement or death sentence for the Niemisis.
me too
i thought he was gone for sure
by puppetmasterp on Apr 23, 2010 12:35 PM CDT up reply actions
Refs seemed a bit loose last night
There was that takedown of Brouwer for no apparent reason after the whistle and a punch from nowhere to the back of Kopecky’s head that knocked his helmet off with no calls. Giving a 2 there seemed in character.
Now granted for some reason Kopecky put an “eject” button with a pop off spring under his helmet…but still……
Dunc looks like he's trying to do too much
I always think of Keith and Campbell as the “leaders” of the D men, so maybe the pressure of being the only puck mover and playing 30+ minutes the last 4 games is getting to him. I think Soupy’s return will gradually start to lighten his load a bit, so he can go back to focusing on playing his game well instead of being everywhere.
I am a big Campbell fan, but even I don’t think I realized what a difference he makes to the team: puck mover, PP QB, minute-eater, good decision maker. Not saying he’s perfect, but he’s definitely been under-appreciated.
by Katherine215 on Apr 23, 2010 9:38 AM CDT up reply actions
I was going to post something like this
but in reply to Stan Mikita’s Donuts below…
So, yeah, what she said.
I know
I look like I stole his SMD’s thoughts, but I actually just hadn’t made it down that far yet. We’re on the same page.
Also, I think I overestimated Dunc’s TOI, but I know he played 30 at least the last game.
by Katherine215 on Apr 23, 2010 9:46 AM CDT up reply actions
Soup was definitely an inspiration
but he seemed to be in pain in the post-game interview- he was breathing uneasily. I had to smile at this quote though:
“There’s a reason why I’ve played that many games, because I protect myself out there.”
Back when Soup used to drive me nuts, he was apt to avoid a hit rather than make a play too often. This past year, not so much of that. But this is a skill that will be crucially important until he gets back to 100%.
Hockey is a man's game. The team with the most real men wins.
Haven't seen the video
but was he kind of breathless? If so, he always talks that way. Probably he was sore and tired, too. nearly 6 weeks of no ice time can’t be easy to come back from.
by Katherine215 on Apr 23, 2010 9:50 AM CDT up reply actions
No no....
…I was breathless (Sharp walked by in the background wearing a skimpy towel.)
Seriously, though, you might be right- simple fatigue.
Hockey is a man's game. The team with the most real men wins.
by cliffkoroll on Apr 23, 2010 10:00 AM CDT up reply actions
before i start a stampede...
….jk on Sharp.
Hockey is a man's game. The team with the most real men wins.
by cliffkoroll on Apr 23, 2010 10:07 AM CDT up reply actions
definitely could be the rib(s)
When I had a couple broken ribs, it was only painful when I would take a full, deep breath. So, to compensate I would find myself taking shallow, more frequent breaths…it sounded like I was out of breath when in fact I was just trying to prevent feeling that pain (feels like being stabbed with a rusty knife).
Or, like you guys said – could just be fatigue.
he seemed to be in pain in the post-game interview- he was breathing uneasily.
Just as routine case of gingervitis. You can’t cure it, but you can make it manageable.
by Hjammer of the Gods on Apr 23, 2010 9:58 AM CDT up reply actions
Zing!
For all those who though this team’s goaltending and power play were their weaknesses, you’re stupid. Oh wait, that’s all of us… ehhh, comment still stands.
If I knew how, I’d photoshop a picture of spraying myself in the face with a seltzer bottle here.
Hockey is a man's game. The team with the most real men wins.
Hey, I thought I was the straight man! I got this
Well, folks, I want to thank you for being here for the recording of my live comedy album. Funny material and laughter will be dubbed in later.
by ChicagoNativeSon on Apr 23, 2010 11:25 AM CDT up reply actions
Man I gotta get photoshop
this looks fun
TAKE OFF THOSE CLOWN SHOES OR I WILL SHOOT THIS DOG!
by BigCSouthside on Apr 23, 2010 11:28 AM CDT up reply actions
download "paint.net"
it’s free
Well, folks, I want to thank you for being here for the recording of my live comedy album. Funny material and laughter will be dubbed in later.
by ChicagoNativeSon on Apr 23, 2010 11:34 AM CDT up reply actions
does it work on Mac?
TAKE OFF THOSE CLOWN SHOES OR I WILL SHOOT THIS DOG!
by BigCSouthside on Apr 23, 2010 11:34 AM CDT up reply actions
Not me
It’d be like reading Darwin. Takes all the fun and mystery outta the experience.
Right now, I’m in my basement making little clay figurine icons of CNS and VerStig.
Hockey is a man's game. The team with the most real men wins.
by cliffkoroll on Apr 23, 2010 11:37 AM CDT up reply actions
Who's the gopher's ally? His friends. The harmless squirrel and the friendly rabbit.
Well, folks, I want to thank you for being here for the recording of my live comedy album. Funny material and laughter will be dubbed in later.
by ChicagoNativeSon on Apr 23, 2010 11:39 AM CDT up reply actions 1 recs
You know, cinch bugs, you know, manganese...
A lot of people don’t even know what that means.
Hockey is a man's game. The team with the most real men wins.
by cliffkoroll on Apr 23, 2010 11:45 AM CDT up reply actions
Oh, one more thing
Totally different mindset for the Hawks. Compare the first shifts from games 3 and 4.
In Game 3, the Hawks played like they were trying to cage a wild animal. Careful cautious tentative.
Last night, d-men were pinching in the offensive zone in the first minute of the game. It was like “Jebus, can we think about maybe scoring more than 2 tomight?” or like charging the wild animal to plunge a knife into its black heart.
Risky, but I think the Hawks must continue this desperation mode. When they tried to put the sleeper hold on Nashville, they were getting their own windpipe cut off.
Hockey is a man's game. The team with the most real men wins.
Not risky, just what they're best doing
That is the Hawks game. Be the aggressor whether in your own zone or the attack zone. Dictate the game on your terms. It’s when they’ve been the most effective all year long.
"You don't wanna show me nothin'. But you're tellin' me everything."
Absolutely, but
I don’t think the ‘Hawks game is as aggressive, depending on your definition, as people say it is. It’s a puck possession game in either zone. We get in trouble when we get over-aggressive and try to make those long stretch passes or pinch in too deep.
The Haviland interview at the 2nd intermission yesterday was really reassuring to me, because he basically said they’ve recommitted to playing that game. It’s one that requires patience with some aggressiveness sprinkled in there, and when it works, it looks more dominant because we keep it in their zone so well.
Couldn't agree more
I HATE those damned stretch passes. I’m just talking about carrying the play to the other team and dictating the pace of play. I think last nights game was an example of that for a good part of the game.
For this to be effective requires sound decision making with and without the puck. Sometimes they don’t do that so well. That’s when I sit there thinking to myself “Did they all take stupid pills before the game?”
I see the Hawks getting in trouble when they go through these stretches where they play passively at either end.
"You don't wanna show me nothin'. But you're tellin' me everything."
Now wait a second.....
I think the 1st game showed what happens against a great fore check and trap when the Hawks tried to skate it out (especially w/o Soupy). That was NOT the way to win the series. Game 2 we dumped it out of the zone at all costs and it worked. Stretch passes ARE a way to beat the trap if you can do them quickly enough before the trap gets set….and we DID get a number of Toews and Sharp breakaways, but just didn’t score. So in reverse order of preference I have:
1) Pass it to the open Pred guy in front of the net so Niemi can solidify playoff MVP
2) Watch Buff/Sopel/Hendry/Boynton/Hammer/Seabrook try and skate it out vs Preds forecheck
3) dump it to center ice where ever you can and chase it
4) Try a stretch pass as long as it clears the zone. Nothing wrong with that against this team
I think it was posted elsewhere in this thread
that the Hawk forwards must set up lower along the half boards in the defensive zone to accept the ring arounds from the D when trying to defeat the opponents forecheck. (A very general paraphrase of a much more eloquent post.)
I believe better positioning and support from the forwards will facilitate a more controlled break out via a few short quick passes.
I agree that the stretch pass has its place, but I think the Hawks rely on it too often as their primary option and its success percentage is too low. Too many times it results in an icing call and face off back in their zone or loss of possession.
Your 3rd choice is also a good option when in trouble and I think they go to this when they need to. They just have been having trouble doing it effectively lately on a consistent basis. Too high a percentage of these clearing attempts seem to be being kept in their zone resulting in sustained pressure and good scoring chances for the opponent.
"You don't wanna show me nothin'. But you're tellin' me everything."
Good point re: coming back to the half boards
I agree I missed that from the list. But then again, even Kane, Toews and Hossa have had their issues skating it out of the zone vs the Preds. I’d put that around 3 a or 3 b depending on the situations.
Agree with most of this, but
…I like the stretch pass at the right time for a simple reason. It keeps opponents honest, forcing them to stay at home instead of bringing the house with the forecheck. You know the old football adage about throwing it deep two or three times a game no matter what? You do it to keep the corners and safety from cheating to defend the run. Same principle, imo. You help the possession game by forcing the other guys to respect the idea that if they cheat, one pass can burn them.
But it definitely has to be at the right time, and I think that’s the issue. Try that play at the wrong time, and you’re probably giving up a scoring chance.
"Eighty-five percent of the fuckin' world's working. The other fifteen come out here." - Lee Elia
by TenMinuteMisconduct on Apr 24, 2010 8:11 AM CDT up reply actions
I think the Hawks finally looked like themselves last night.
Though they didn’t dominate the shots against like we saw all season. Still, they were pursuing the puck with some speed and passion, which has been missing for big parts of this series. I’m hopeful they’ll still play with urgency and not expect that being at home will win the game for them.
Hossa looks like he’s going to kill someone soon if he doesn’t get a goal. Sad panda is becoming angry panda. And for the record, I have said all along (it’s in the comments) that I wasn’t worried about our goaltending. Still not. It’s good to be right (for once!).
I fart in your general direction. Your mother was a hamster and your father smelt of elderberries.
I hope he is Angry Panda
Yea he got an assist but eh’s been one of the better fwds all series. I say keep him angry and hungry.
On the same note Dunc really F’d with Him on that offsides late in the 3rd.
September 26, 2007 The day a Franchise was reborn.
Really?
Did they talk? Dunc & Panda? I missed that.
And I agree that Panda has been playing great. He just wants a goal. Bad.
I fart in your general direction. Your mother was a hamster and your father smelt of elderberries.
It was coming off the last PP with the empty net
Dunc stays in the neutral zone and Sad Panda has a goal…
by Stan Mikita's Donuts on Apr 23, 2010 9:29 AM CDT up reply actions
In Dunc's defense...
He’s had an INSANE TOI since the Campbell injury. That doesn’t forgive the comepletely ass-ridden turnover from behing the net, but the dude is obviously carrying one hell of a burden
Played 30 minutes in game 3. With Campbell back, that will help for the rest of the playoffs. The other thing that would help a ton is not waiting until 30 minutes into the game to get a manageable lead.
Nothing would be better than putting a couple tallies on the board in the first period, so the Stache can be a little more discerning in doling out his minutes…
by Stan Mikita's Donuts on Apr 23, 2010 9:32 AM CDT reply actions
So for a follow up question
Is Buff permanent D-man now? Seemed last night would have been a great opportunity to let Hendry play and let Buff go back to forward and screening goalies etc to help the offense. Instead Buff is on D vs Hendry and Bickell/Burish take the new O spots. Thoughts?
From Fifth Feather...
I think the Hawks are just beginning to feel the positive impact of not having to play Jordan Hendry 12 minutes a night.
I think this is spot on for this series.
Now I’ll sit quietly while Trixie comes along and boxes my ears.
Hockey is a man's game. The team with the most real men wins.
by cliffkoroll on Apr 23, 2010 12:37 PM CDT up reply actions
This was my favorite Feather quote from today:
It sounded like somebody ran over a tennis ball with a Cadillac when a slap shot rang off Jordan Tootoo’s face during the third period.
by Hjammer of the Gods on Apr 23, 2010 12:42 PM CDT up reply actions
I also (gulp) like Q's mentality with the lines..
Get 2 scorers (Toews, Kane, Hossa, Sharp) with a big winger willing to put his ass in front of Rinne (Taxi Driver, Ladd/Kops)… gotta have traffic in front of the net with this guy. He’s too good.
by Stan Mikita's Donuts on Apr 23, 2010 9:37 AM CDT reply actions
we did seem to do a better job of getting guys to the net. I noticed a few times, last night, when a winger would be entering the zone, they’d delay a little bit to allow someone to drive the net. That sort of control of the game has been missing.
Yeah, in Game 3
It looked like guys would be trying to make plays before the 3rd forward would get there, resulting in one-and-done situations.
Were they his lines or Scotty Bowman's lines?
I’m leaning towards the latter than the former. Something tells me that Scotty had a lot of input into the changing of personnel and tactics going into last night’s tilt.
2010 PLAYOFFS: ROUND ONE
The triumphant achievement or death sentence for the Niemisis.
Sure.
Bowman 11 Stanley Cups rings.
Quenneville 0 Stanley Cup rings.
2010 PLAYOFFS: ROUND ONE
The triumphant achievement or death sentence for the Niemisis.
I was thinking more along the lines of...
…something someone let drop in an interview or somesuch.
Hockey is a man's game. The team with the most real men wins.
by cliffkoroll on Apr 24, 2010 10:47 AM CDT up reply actions
Niemi
First Hawk G to post 2 SO in one playoff series since Tony O. Thats kind of cool
TAKE OFF THOSE CLOWN SHOES OR I WILL SHOOT THIS DOG!
Brouwer
Anyone else wonder if he dug himself a deeper shit hole with Q after he took the roughing call in the 3rd? The whole time i couldn’t think about anything other than “I wonder if Q is gonna healthy scratch his ass now”
September 26, 2007 The day a Franchise was reborn.
i kind of thought that roughing call was bullshit
if anything, 2 guys should have gone off
I agree
I thought the linesman pulling the Pred away is what caused Browuer to get the Penalty. If he lets them tussle a bit they both go off and instead with the Hawks being up 3-0 and Brouwers jab being pretty evident after the linesman tied the other guy up made it a easier call for the ref.
September 26, 2007 The day a Franchise was reborn.
Ditto
It even looked like Brow was telling the ref “send us both” if my lipreading is any good.
teaching respect for the Indian, one Red Wing fan at a time.
i mean they were f-ing hacking at his head down to the ice
yeah and throwing a wild punch with a padded hand is the roughing call.
+1
Really poor call there. Brouwer was just defending himself. Should have been coincidentals there.
I believe
Brouwer got the roughing penalty for a subsequent scrum from the one where he got cross checked into the goal mouth and then had the shit kicked out of him. My recollection was that that scrum resulted in no penalties and he got the roughing call on one that happened the next time.
Yeah it was for retaliation
But seriously, it looked like the Preds saw what the Kings were doing to Henrik the night before and tried to do it to Brouwer. Totally uncalled for.
Was it on that same play
or another scrum around the Nashville net, when Arnott slashed Brou twice and then gave him a two handed pop to the head when he was down, and no penalty called. Don’t blame him for being a little edgy after that.
"You don't wanna show me nothin'. But you're tellin' me everything."
That's the play
the refs were separating the guys and brouwer threw a wild half-punch, hand went up.
I hope not
I really think we are going to need him, hes a goddamn 20 goal scorer, I really hope that Q isnt pissed and hes been a victim of the line suffling
TAKE OFF THOSE CLOWN SHOES OR I WILL SHOOT THIS DOG!
by BigCSouthside on Apr 23, 2010 9:54 AM CDT up reply actions
Not really.
Even Q isn’t that much of an asshole to not see that it was a ticky-tac penalty call.
It wasn’t like it was happening repeatedly after every whistle that it needed to be called just to stop it.
It was a nonsense call that could’ve proved costly. Just like the puck over the glass penalty. The fact that it’s even called a penalty is stupid in it’s own right.
2010 PLAYOFFS: ROUND ONE
The triumphant achievement or death sentence for the Niemisis.
How do you stop teams from doing it on purpose
to get a breather or line change? Prohibiting them from changing is one thing, but it’s impossible to not give the delaying team a breather.
by Katherine215 on Apr 23, 2010 5:01 PM CDT up reply actions
Prohibit the line change just like icing. No need to put a team down a man because of that.
2010 PLAYOFFS: ROUND ONE
The triumphant achievement or death sentence for the Niemisis.
it doesn’t eliminate the stoppage in play though, which would why a team would do it on purpose, right?
by Katherine215 on Apr 23, 2010 7:19 PM CDT up reply actions
It would be a great way to kill penalties,
just whip that little fucker over the glass when you cant clear it
TAKE OFF THOSE CLOWN SHOES OR I WILL SHOOT THIS DOG!
by BigCSouthside on Apr 23, 2010 7:27 PM CDT up reply actions
It’s a double edge sword isn’t it? But in the end I’d rather see a game end on a hooking call than a accidental puck over the glass and that’s why it shouldn’t be a 2-minute minor.
2010 PLAYOFFS: ROUND ONE
The triumphant achievement or death sentence for the Niemisis.
but it's the same idea:
being in control of your stick and your body. “Accidentally” shooting a puck over the glass tells me you’re not in control of what you’re doing and to me, that should be a penalty like any other loss of control is (hooking, high sticking, etc).
And BigC is right about PKs; what team wouldn’t whip it over the glass to get a whistle and a chance for the Dmen to catch their breathe? Not being able to change probably isn’t as big a deal then either.
It’s a dumb penalty but I think it serves a purpose.
by Katherine215 on Apr 23, 2010 10:57 PM CDT up reply actions
didn't they also institute the rule
after that girl was killed in columbus? poor girl.
(170 g) * (3x10^8 m/s)^2 = 1.5x10^16 J
No.
They introduced the netting behind each net that would catch the flying pucks instead of flying into the stands.
I know first hand that if your eye isn’t focused on the play that there stands a great chnce of getting hit, especially during shootarounds in the warm-ups. In Ottawa, I was watching Kane sign some autographs before the game and just out of the corner of my eye I seen something and next thing I knew there was this black rubber sitting 2 feet from my left. So it can happen very quickly.
2010 PLAYOFFS: ROUND ONE
The triumphant achievement or death sentence for the Niemisis.
the fact that which is a penalty?
TAKE OFF THOSE CLOWN SHOES OR I WILL SHOOT THIS DOG!
by BigCSouthside on Apr 23, 2010 5:02 PM CDT up reply actions
It's much better
waking up today after a Hawks win than Wednesday after that disaster. This is the team I was expecting to see when the playoffs started. Hopefully, they can continue to play this way and improve some more.
Still a lot of passes off the mark and clearing the puck has become a bit of a joke. I would expect Trotz to make some adjustments too, so hopefully Q doesn’t go batshit crazy with the line juggling, though it seems when they’re playing well he could probably use the line generator and still get good results. I’d like to see Kop sit and get Fraz back in.
Agreed
accept for the hangover headache im rockin right now
TAKE OFF THOSE CLOWN SHOES OR I WILL SHOOT THIS DOG!
by BigCSouthside on Apr 23, 2010 9:56 AM CDT up reply actions
The beer
I drink for games at home always gives me gas the next day…
Poor people who work around me. LOL
September 26, 2007 The day a Franchise was reborn.
you have to wonder why there are medicated laxatives
do these people not have cheap beer or mexican food where they live?
At least it's not a misery hangover
Time for some thrillin' heroics!
by shinkicker on Apr 23, 2010 10:10 AM CDT via mobile up reply actions
I happily
feel like crap.
SCH Resident Idiot
Success is our only mother f*&#ing option, failure's not
by Johnny Lava on Apr 23, 2010 10:16 AM CDT up reply actions
Im laying on the couch in sweats
watching slapshot and eating lasagna, yeah, I got a headache, but fuck it, could be worse
TAKE OFF THOSE CLOWN SHOES OR I WILL SHOOT THIS DOG!
by BigCSouthside on Apr 23, 2010 10:20 AM CDT up reply actions
remember when i said
going to the bar would mean less booze? Totally true during the game, 1 per period.
After…. I think I paid my tab
SCH Resident Idiot
Success is our only mother f*&#ing option, failure's not
by Johnny Lava on Apr 23, 2010 10:32 AM CDT up reply actions
it's worse
SCH Resident Idiot
Success is our only mother f*&#ing option, failure's not
by Johnny Lava on Apr 23, 2010 10:35 AM CDT up reply actions
Youre not pulling crumpled receipts
out of your pockets and trying to fuckin CSI your night back together are you?
TAKE OFF THOSE CLOWN SHOES OR I WILL SHOOT THIS DOG!
by BigCSouthside on Apr 23, 2010 10:38 AM CDT up reply actions
not that bad
I don’t think there’s any holes in my memory, but I may have forgot to go back in after stepping outside for a smoke.
SCH Resident Idiot
Success is our only mother f*&#ing option, failure's not
by Johnny Lava on Apr 23, 2010 10:49 AM CDT up reply actions
I love hearing all these comments from ya'll
the morning after. Makes me really glad I don’t drink much anymore.
(I really don’t miss the old days of waking up and having to wander around the neighborhood wondering where the fuck I parked my car. I was really a stupid shit back then, as opposed to my present state of enlightenment.)
"You don't wanna show me nothin'. But you're tellin' me everything."
Dudes, my head is like a rock in a hard place right now.
I could not control the urge to drink alcoholic beverages last night while watching hockey. What’s more, I currently cannot control the urge to tell people about it on the internet.
by Hi, I'm Dan Akroyd on Apr 23, 2010 11:35 AM CDT up reply actions
Dude, it’s not like we’re having a dick-measuring contest over who drank the most and who’s the biggest badass. Shut up.
by Hjammer of the Gods on Apr 23, 2010 11:46 AM CDT up reply actions
i spent the morning redefining "useless"
i feel like ass today.
but happy!
by puppetmasterp on Apr 23, 2010 12:43 PM CDT up reply actions
Agree with the 1st part
but I’ll go with Kopecky. vs Fraz. I don’t think it’s just coincidence Hawk’s best playoff game so far had Fraz watching. Even if you disagree with that, the question has to be why would you change ANY players from last night’s 3-0 shutout?
I don't think
you can blame Fraz for game 3’s poor effort and subsequent turnaround without him.. Correlation does not necessarily imply causation.
I thought Kopecky took a really stupid penalty and while it’s probably not enough to warrant a trip to the press box, I would not be opposed. I think Fraz plays smarter. But I would not change one thing from last night either.
by Katherine215 on Apr 23, 2010 12:47 PM CDT up reply actions
"Correlation does not necessarily imply causation."
Check out the big brain on Katherine215!
"You don't wanna show me nothin'. But you're tellin' me everything."
Yeah....not saying sitting Fraz was THE difference
but having centers 1)Toews, 2)Sharp, 3)Bolland and 4)Madden I DO like better than 1)Toews, 2)Bolland, 3)Madden and 4)Fraz. I believe right there there IS a difference in the O capabilities.
I will agree Fraz plays smarter than Kop, but then I think Kop has more upside skills than Fraz. and I’d like to give him some more chances with some of the better players to see what he can do in that situation.
PS Correlation/Causation Black Belt talk on SCH. WOW!
Eh, to be honest
I don’t really care all that much either way. I like Fraz better, but it’s not breaking my heart he’s in the press box over Kop. Knowing Q, that could change in a game or two.
Kop is 28 – what you see is pretty much what you get there, imo. He’s been on better lines before and hasn’t been able to give Q a reason to keep him there. It’s not like he’s been buried only on the 4th line all year, he’s had 2nd line time w/Hossa and PP time.
Your comment about the O capabilities is confusing me a bit – the first 4 guys are all on the ice in the 2nd scenario too, so the O capabilities should be relatively the same.
by Katherine215 on Apr 23, 2010 1:56 PM CDT up reply actions
Way to steal my point *again*
…
I kid, but a couple things I just remembered - I think earlier in the year people were saying how miscast he was on the 4th line, and yet over the course of the year he’s adapted to the role and quite well (his +10? mutual +/ with Eager is the 2nd highest among forwards). It’s almost like he’s having trouble adjusting back, or maybe he’s just not good enough to play on our top two lines.
I'm not THAT strong on Kop vs Fraz
but I WILL go back to…if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it. I’ll take my chances on the game 4 lineup in game 5…unless Johnsson somehow rises from the grave, but that stuff only happens like once every 2000 or so years.
I don't disagree at all
I like Frazz too, and I like that he can contribute on the PK, but it seems his services aren’t quite needed against the Preds. I think Kopecky’s speed (read: falling over people) may be more helpful here.
I agree
that the best move is to stick with what we used last night from a chemistry perspective. I just don’t like the penalty Kop took (not that Fraz couldn’t or wouldn’t take a dumb one) and feel like Fraz works too hard to get put on the bench again for a long period of time.
by Katherine215 on Apr 23, 2010 2:27 PM CDT up reply actions
I think "centerman" on the Hawks has lost it's significance (unfortunately)
I mean when you talk Mikita, Roenick, Savard… I could probably name half a dozen more if I tried…those were centers that not only had great careers for themselves, but made others a lot better too. Not sure we have anyone like that on the Hawks (MAYBE Toews at some point).. But the center POSITION has, I think, a large affect on the outcome of games when played well. That said, I think Bolland as a #3 vs 2 center, Madden as a #4 vs #3 and Sharp as center vs wing, upgrade the Hawks as a team up the middle vs the other role call even if they are all on the ice in both cases. Not sure I explained that well. But as an analogy using the old Hawks, I don’t think if Secord was center and Savard was a wing that they would have been as successful as they were otherwise.
I agree with your statement
but with a totally different meaning… but given my lack of hockey experience correct me if I’m way off base.
The way I see it, the style the ‘Hawks play nowadays does kind of negate the significance of the traditional “center” position. We’re really mobile, and our wingers (especially Kane) often just as much playmaking ability/responsibility as our centermen. I almost see the LW/C/RW roles as difficult to apply to our forwards, it’s like they have much more specific roles that they take (which also change) — board battler, behind-the-net passer, half-board playmaker, sniper, crease crasher, etc.
Also, with Madden on the 4th line the traditional 3rd/4th line descriptions get knocked off their moorings (“checking,” “energy”).
I think it's my lack of hockey knowledge
and this Hawks team being my main frame of reference that make me see VerStig’s point more than husler’s when it comes to centers. Kane and Hossa are more the playmakers than our centers. But I see what husler is saying.
by Katherine215 on Apr 23, 2010 2:30 PM CDT up reply actions
I eactly agree with all you said
but I don’t think we do that because it’s a better strategy….it perhaps fits our current players better.. That said, i STILL stand by having a stronger line up up the middle will make us better right here right now.
You're right
I think it’s a product of Bolland underperforming (or overperforming last year?). People were clamoring for us to acquire a center at the trade deadline this year.
Agreed again
I’ll give Bolland a pass THIS year coming back from back surgery….I can’t fanthom playing hockey after that at all so I have to assume there are still some healing issues and give him credit for trying. But if he plays like this in November, I’ll start to get a bit worried.
I saw this today, don't know if it will work but Admiral Ackbar says...
When in Rome we shall do as the Romans, when in Hell we do shots at the bar.
by HolyBlackhawksBatman on Apr 23, 2010 10:14 AM CDT reply actions
here is the link, didn't work.
by HolyBlackhawksBatman on Apr 23, 2010 10:14 AM CDT up reply actions
epic damn fail
http://www.geekologie.com/2010/04/in_a_bathroom_far_far_away_ack.php
When in Rome we shall do as the Romans, when in Hell we do shots at the bar.
by HolyBlackhawksBatman on Apr 23, 2010 10:14 AM CDT up reply actions
Sometimes
im fucking amazed at the stuff you guys find
TAKE OFF THOSE CLOWN SHOES OR I WILL SHOOT THIS DOG!
by BigCSouthside on Apr 23, 2010 10:28 AM CDT up reply actions
haha
you love it.
When in Rome we shall do as the Romans, when in Hell we do shots at the bar.
by HolyBlackhawksBatman on Apr 23, 2010 10:29 AM CDT up reply actions
Anyone else in favor of getting Bolland a scratch?
And putting Buff at forward, Hendry at D?
Or Getting Fraser back on the ice?
He was 44% last night in faceoffs, the only thing he seems to be doing well in. If Sharp is centering line 2, why not get Bolland out? I just don’t see him adding anything right now.
When in Rome we shall do as the Romans, when in Hell we do shots at the bar.
by HolyBlackhawksBatman on Apr 23, 2010 10:22 AM CDT reply actions
Then again
each center was dismal at the dot.
When in Rome we shall do as the Romans, when in Hell we do shots at the bar.
by HolyBlackhawksBatman on Apr 23, 2010 10:23 AM CDT up reply actions
He just seemed kind of lost
Id be ok with getting the Fro back in, Ive been disappointed with Bolland
TAKE OFF THOSE CLOWN SHOES OR I WILL SHOOT THIS DOG!
by BigCSouthside on Apr 23, 2010 10:24 AM CDT up reply actions
I agree
Bolland may still be hurt or just not effective. Whatever it is I hope he fixes it or another guy (Fraser) can take his spot.
When in Rome we shall do as the Romans, when in Hell we do shots at the bar.
by HolyBlackhawksBatman on Apr 23, 2010 10:27 AM CDT up reply actions
I very much enjoyed watching the game with the group last night.
Enjoyed meeting you “Three Alcoholics” also – Matt, Sam, McClure – even though you seemed very much under control last night, not at all like I was when I crossed the line from a normal drinker. ;)
larry. A kind word for everyone.
One of the perks of alcoholism
is that it gives you super powers when it comes to consumption
TAKE OFF THOSE CLOWN SHOES OR I WILL SHOOT THIS DOG!
by BigCSouthside on Apr 23, 2010 10:45 AM CDT up reply actions
For awhile.
larry. A kind word for everyone.
Needed the win
- Finally, I get the reference in the thread headline.
- the picture caption may not be the funniest ever, but it has to be near the top. I loved it.
- after the Hawks went up 3 goals I expected the Preds to turn it up to 11 and try to get back in the game, but it seemed like neither team could get over about 6.5 (not that the Hawks had to) and it looked like a medium paced rat hockey game at the local rink. I half expected to see everyone throw their sticks in the center after the whistle to pick new teams. Weird, but I’ll take it.
- Campbell looked like he probably came back too soon, and it caused a lot of irregular D pairings (although some of that is probably due to all the special teams play) but I still admire him for doing it.
- Hammer looked great, Niemi looked solid once again, and I just wish Kopecky could catch a pass, any pass, just one to show us he can do it.
Picture caption
Thanks for pointing that out. Had to look for a bit but it IS funny
Campbell....
He has to get his wind back and get up to hockey speed. I like the way he was put in and not asked to do too much. Yeah it caused some shuffling….but when he’s fully back game 6 or (hopefully) round 2, I think we’ll look back and be glad he got some games in vs Nashville.
IMO. Hawks need to build on this effort, NOT repeat it.
1. Get the fucking puck out of the defensive zone when you gain control. They looked atrocious at times. The Predators, on the other hand, did it like a fine tuned machine.
2. These weak passes in the defensive zone gotta stop, not to mention those of the “let’s give the puck to a Predator standing unchallenged in front of Niemi” variety.
larry. A kind word for everyone.
That's true
We didn’t play 60 minutes… it was kind of like 50 minutes, and maybe 10 of that was sort of half-good. I think learning how to clear the zone and learning how to enter the other zone should be priority items as far as what to look for — everything else will work out if we master those.
Norris nominations in five minutes, peeps. Keith FTW.
On the Forecheck/Twitter/CLS
"What do you think this is? Major League Baseball?"- Shea Weber
Good thing the playoffs aren't taken into consideration
Keith has been a spaz, and Doughty has been carrying LA.
by HungryHungryPanda on Apr 23, 2010 11:03 AM CDT up reply actions
Do you really think those who do the voting
ignore playoff performance? Seems to me like they couldn’t help but be influenced by what they see during playoff games. Just wondering.
"You don't wanna show me nothin'. But you're tellin' me everything."
From what I can tell (correct me if I'm wrong, anyone)
The voting for all the awards is done between the regular season and the playoffs. They just separate the announcements of the finalists for the different awards to keep interest up. But I could be wrong.
was thinking
the same thing. I don’t see how they DON’T take the playoffs into consideration whether they’re supposed to or not
September 26, 2007 The day a Franchise was reborn.
yeah like the Olympics aren't going to help Miller
You know the Olympics aren’t supposed to count, but who isn’t going to have that in the back of their mind when voting for Miller?
I went to a fight the other night and a hockey game broke out.
- Rodney Dangerfield
it will help Keith
if his team hangs around in the playoffs longer than Doughty’s does (assuming Dunc gets his head out of his ass going forward, of course). Even if they aren’t supposed to take playoffs into consideration, Keith’s good play would be fresher in their minds. Green can leave early too, I wouldn’t mind.
by Katherine215 on Apr 23, 2010 11:25 AM CDT up reply actions
Hopefully
they werent watching last night (sorry Duncs, but that was kinda bad)
TAKE OFF THOSE CLOWN SHOES OR I WILL SHOOT THIS DOG!
by BigCSouthside on Apr 23, 2010 11:26 AM CDT up reply actions
I'm crossing my fingers
and hopefully, they’ll be watching Keith be great in June and last night will be a distant memory…
by Katherine215 on Apr 23, 2010 11:34 AM CDT up reply actions
I posted this question on another blog
And was told that all voting is in before the end of the regular season. Honestly, I think think it’s a total toss-up among the 3 finalists.
by HungryHungryPanda on Apr 23, 2010 7:45 PM CDT up reply actions
Its done. You’re correct.
On the Forecheck/Twitter/CLS
"What do you think this is? Major League Baseball?"- Shea Weber
by Chris Burton on Apr 23, 2010 11:06 AM CDT up reply actions
It's a shame Shea Weber didn't get a nod
I prefer Defensemen that…. you know… play defense? (As opposed to Mike Green..)
by Stan Mikita's Donuts on Apr 23, 2010 12:22 PM CDT up reply actions
Norris finalists
Doughty, Green, Keith. Congrats Dunc!
by HungryHungryPanda on Apr 23, 2010 11:05 AM CDT reply actions
that's my boy
congratulations!
I went to a fight the other night and a hockey game broke out.
- Rodney Dangerfield
the Scum fans must be monitoring Wiki
My nephew just texted me to Wiki Detroit Redwings and look at the box to the right. He said in the history it said “scum 1926-present” as their history. When I look now it doesn’t show anything. Damn that would have been funny to see.
I went to a fight the other night and a hockey game broke out.
- Rodney Dangerfield
Hey bros, I am so hung over from drinking Crystal Head Vodka all night in my basement.
It was so radical. I was totally drinking alcohol and watching hockey at the same time.
by Hi, I'm Dan Akroyd on Apr 23, 2010 11:32 AM CDT reply actions
you’re right. you are a much better person than the rest of us. I feel much shame for my lifestyle and now will now try to be more like you
SCH Resident Idiot
Success is our only mother f*&#ing option, failure's not
by Johnny Lava on Apr 23, 2010 11:56 AM CDT up reply actions
Hope you remembered to pour some water back into the bottle
so your parents don’t find out.
Sopel was my Norris winner last night.....steady,slow and steady
"Trying is the first step towards failure" Homer Simpson
great game
why can’t the hawks play like this every game?
Youre a Chicago Sports fan
you should know that would be much too easy
TAKE OFF THOSE CLOWN SHOES OR I WILL SHOOT THIS DOG!
by BigCSouthside on Apr 23, 2010 11:36 AM CDT up reply actions
Because they are not hockey robots from the future.
by Hi, I'm Dan Akroyd on Apr 23, 2010 11:37 AM CDT up reply actions
except for Hossa
Hockey is a man's game. The team with the most real men wins.
by cliffkoroll on Apr 23, 2010 11:43 AM CDT up reply actions
i think even cylons had some weird form of cylon blood
the skinjobs, not the toasters.
by puppetmasterp on Apr 23, 2010 12:53 PM CDT up reply actions
it cures cancer
but so does wine, broccoli, acai berries, tea, fish oil, and polar bear meat… it’s really not that special
that's just to throw off the human resistance
earlier models had rubber skin and were easy to spot. Models like Hossa are cybernetic organisms. Living tissue over a metal endoskeleton
it's entirely possible this isn't sarcasm
Is it 2pm Saturday yet?
I actually sent a mass text message out when Versteeg dumped the puck in the 2nd period!! Nice to see Soupy out there! It’s the Stanley Cup Playoffs, you play hurt! Hats off to you sir! Hossa is a beast! I wonder where all those “Havlat is better than Hossa” morons are at now!! The only time I want to see Buff or Bolland tomorrow is selling me my beers in Section 321!
You know what would be pretty fucking amazing?
If gameday scratches actually went up to 321 to sell/drink beers with the fans.
Rock Over London
Rock on Chicago
Diet Pepsi
Uh-Huh!
by Campbell32 on Apr 23, 2010 1:45 PM CDT via mobile up reply actions 1 recs
Or maybe...
they can come up and shag the SRO’s off my back!!!
Hi Ogie. Buy you a soda after the game?
Tim McGraw just called...
…and he wanted to let us Hawk fans know how much he LIKED it, he LOVED it, he WANTS SOME MORE of it!
Victim was found murdered by a Chelsea Dagger.
Ya jackass!
Rock Over London
Rock on Chicago
Diet Pepsi
Uh-Huh!
by Campbell32 on Apr 23, 2010 1:46 PM CDT via mobile up reply actions
Pipe down!
You must be a Nashville fan or else you would not mind the reference. A 3-0 game without that song is fine by me.
Victim was found murdered by a Chelsea Dagger.
Want a laugh?
Go check out the Broad Street Bullies discussing how Pronger was snubbed and Green/Keith are shitty and overrated.
When in Rome we shall do as the Romans, when in Hell we do shots at the bar.
by HolyBlackhawksBatman on Apr 23, 2010 12:23 PM CDT reply actions
What did you expect?
Philly fans are jackholes! They threw snowballs at Santa Claus for Pete’s sake!!!
Hi Ogie. Buy you a soda after the game?
Bastards!
When in Rome we shall do as the Romans, when in Hell we do shots at the bar.
by HolyBlackhawksBatman on Apr 23, 2010 1:07 PM CDT up reply actions
There is one idiot ragging on Keith
The rest of the comments are nerds fighting with statistics about Mike Green. I think it’s great
Time for some thrillin' heroics!
by shinkicker on Apr 23, 2010 2:07 PM CDT via mobile up reply actions
Careful
we do have our own resident stat nerds.
"You don't wanna show me nothin'. But you're tellin' me everything."
I can't throw stones at nerds
They’d be boomerangs and I’d end up looking like Lappierre (sp?)
Time for some thrillin' heroics!
by shinkicker on Apr 23, 2010 2:29 PM CDT via mobile up reply actions
Never played it
So I guess I can throw stones at those nerds!
Time for some thrillin' heroics!
by shinkicker on Apr 23, 2010 3:11 PM CDT via mobile up reply actions
Stats
nominee verstig's norris points
Green 1
Doughty 99999999999
Keith 100000000000
by VerStig on Apr 23, 2010 2:20 PM CDT up reply actions 2 recs
That looks like science to me!
Time for some thrillin' heroics!
by shinkicker on Apr 23, 2010 2:28 PM CDT via mobile up reply actions
honestly
they are breaking out stats that i’ve never even heard of.
There are several posts like this:
Let’s compare their HYSST 4000 ratings:
.0023:45% Pronger
~48*-#22 Green
How the hell was pronger not nominated?
I think at one point they incorporate social security numbers and meteorological calculations
by SLoop on Apr 23, 2010 4:16 PM CDT up reply actions 3 recs
rec'd
I wasted a lot of damn time today reading through this stuff, and this is far and away the funniest shit I’ve seen!
Hockey is a man's game. The team with the most real men wins.
Also rec'd.
Some of that stuff… I don’t know. I read stats on a fairly regular basis, and some of the ones they’re pulling are like “He’s a Libra and Pluto was in retrograde for three of his SOG.” Wacky.
by spokeinthebandwagon on Apr 23, 2010 8:01 PM CDT up reply actions
Shooter McGavin
Greatest villain of all time?
Legacy of KA(i)NE
by Kaner's Revenge on Apr 23, 2010 12:42 PM CDT reply actions
Goulet did pretty well in Naked Gun 1.5
But yeah, I think I’m gonna side with you.
Shooter was also amazing when he was Travis Cole – the Shooter McGavin of opera.
Rock Over London
Rock on Chicago
Diet Pepsi
Uh-Huh!
by Campbell32 on Apr 23, 2010 1:49 PM CDT via mobile up reply actions
2.5! 2.5!
Consummate Vs! Consummate Vs!
My bad
Rock Over London
Rock on Chicago
Diet Pepsi
Uh-Huh!
by Campbell32 on Apr 23, 2010 2:01 PM CDT via mobile up reply actions
How was this missed?
My favorite Python skit. Burma!
Well, folks, I want to thank you for being here for the recording of my live comedy album. Funny material and laughter will be dubbed in later.
by ChicagoNativeSon on Apr 26, 2010 12:28 AM CDT up reply actions
The Nasty Hit (Same as OtF)
Sportsmanship can never be underrated
I can see a 5 min major in it, but also can see why only a 2 min minor (A penalty no matter what).
What I did like to see, that Hawks did not see from Dirty Ovie on Campbell, and Wizdouchesky on Seabrook, was Kop appeared to try to keep his head from hitting the ice, looked like "Oh shit, did not mean that", stayed next to him, and looked like was signaling the refs to stop the play. He did not just skate off, but looked and acted concerned for Klein. That is Sportsmanship, I’m not huge fan of Kop’s playing, but that earned huge props for me to see what was more important, and it was not the game, but someone who looked like they just get seriously fucked up!
Wizdouchesky and Ovie on the other hand acted as if they did not do anything (Cross Check Boarding from behind w/o a player expecting a hit from Ovie, and an elbowing charging call with skates very clearly leaving the ice, Wizasshole). This hit was a penalty, but not reckless or intending on hurting, and this player stuck around.
Get off my Land!
ART.I§8-11; AM I-XXVII
James Madison is my Hero!
by Toews-makes-funny-faces on Apr 23, 2010 12:43 PM CDT reply actions 1 recs
I love this site
much more after a game like last night in comparison to game 4.
When in Rome we shall do as the Romans, when in Hell we do shots at the bar.
by HolyBlackhawksBatman on Apr 23, 2010 1:09 PM CDT reply actions
brain fart
meant game 3
When in Rome we shall do as the Romans, when in Hell we do shots at the bar.
by HolyBlackhawksBatman on Apr 23, 2010 1:26 PM CDT up reply actions
Me fucking too
I like life a lot better after a game like last night vs game 3
Time for some thrillin' heroics!
by shinkicker on Apr 23, 2010 1:39 PM CDT via mobile up reply actions
Rather than interviews and closeups...
They should just give Sopes the Marla Hooch treatment with the cameras. Brent Sopel… What a shot blocker!
Really though, I fuckin love that dude.
Rock Over London
Rock on Chicago
Diet Pepsi
Uh-Huh!
by Campbell32 on Apr 23, 2010 2:04 PM CDT via mobile reply actions 1 recs
there's no crying in hockey!
I wonder how Tootoo’s face is doing.
When in Rome we shall do as the Romans, when in Hell we do shots at the bar.
by HolyBlackhawksBatman on Apr 23, 2010 2:20 PM CDT up reply actions
Since you couldn't rec'd my earlier post
with the Biff Tannen reference…I will gladly rec’d this with the League of Their Own reference. Well done! (and I agree with the postgame treatment…it’d probably be a great segment for BHTV, say they did a role call of all the players)
"What the hell, let's review it." - Dale Tallon
"They are!" - Pat Foley
"What a farce." - Dale Tallon
Saturday afternoon.
The beard stays. The black jersey will be donned. Start with beer and switch to whiskey again. Part my hair on the left. Dog goes out after the first period and not again until after the game. There will be no distractions.
Let’s DO it!!
"Call Detroit, tell dem... BULLSHIT!"
Hate to fuck with mojo but
it’s a matinee
on NBC
No Foley
And it won’t be on my Direct TV channel 666 like last night!
We will have Edzo!
Soldier, how did you get so close to me? Sniper approached the instructor by being a sneaky bastard, Sergeant Major!
by thepuckstopshere31 on Apr 23, 2010 3:36 PM CDT up reply actions
Great
Cruel and Unusual punishment on NBC. A plus is I think McGuire will be torturing the TSN crowd with his penetrating analysis. Im sure Edzo will be glad he wont have Pierre trying to give him a reach around for 60 min.
TAKE OFF THOSE CLOWN SHOES OR I WILL SHOOT THIS DOG!
by BigCSouthside on Apr 23, 2010 4:00 PM CDT up reply actions
Oh shit.
Alright then, I guess it really IS up to the team leaders to prove my mojo ain’t worth jack.
"Call Detroit, tell dem... BULLSHIT!"
everytime niemi shuts out a team
a finnish women becomes pregnant
"The roar from the crowd really fired me up," Burish said. "In warmups there were a lot of signs. One said 'Burish, my grandma is pregnant.' I don't know what that means. I skated by it and said, 'it's not mine.' "
We should have an over / under for Sopel Minutes
Winner gets Rec’d
Loser get Band (yes, I know, “banned”, but “band” is somehow funnier)
Now, I just tried to type “I think” in the subject section and a pop up saying “anybody else see this” came up. When did this happen. I ask because I think a lot, and I was wondering if this was directed at me on some weird Johnny (Keanu Reeves computer movie that I can’t spell) kind of way. I digress.
Esquire – your up first on the Sopel over and under.
Chewing gum?
Mor Sopel over / under rules
winner(s) = exact minutes played from NHL.com
Loser(s) = 6 minutes +/- of actual minutes played
must be posted 1 hour before puck drop
Chewing gum?
Is it lonely in here tonight?
TAKE OFF THOSE CLOWN SHOES OR I WILL SHOOT THIS DOG!
by BigCSouthside on Apr 23, 2010 9:55 PM CDT up reply actions
Dear Andruw Jones
I am sorry I made fun of you, you are a badass thus far
again, accept my apologies, on behalf of Sox Fans
TAKE OFF THOSE CLOWN SHOES OR I WILL SHOOT THIS DOG!
mmm...luvin me some Pelican
"...all bad. You do dat, you go to da box, you know...uh...two minutes by yourself and...you feel shame, you know......and den you get free."
our little Nemo that could
it also helps that Anderson shit the bed last night
I went to a fight the other night and a hockey game broke out.
- Rodney Dangerfield
true..
but it just…i dunno…makes me proud i guess…to see him cover the leaderboard like that, except for Boucher’s stupid face of course…
"...all bad. You do dat, you go to da box, you know...uh...two minutes by yourself and...you feel shame, you know......and den you get free."
yeah but
Boucher can’t get any more until next round
Plus I think it’s kind of a cool story that he’s like their 7th goalie and beat Brodeur.
oh, no
I wasn’t ripping on Boucher really (I guess I did type it that way though). Even though I actually feel pretty bad for NJ fans (I don’t know why, but I do), watching Boucher handle the Devils like that was kinda cool :)
…I just want to see Nemo cover the board
"...all bad. You do dat, you go to da box, you know...uh...two minutes by yourself and...you feel shame, you know......and den you get free."
I agree
but two out of the three for now looks nice
I went to a fight the other night and a hockey game broke out.
- Rodney Dangerfield
He's humble too. This is a quote when he was asked about his second s/o.
“It’s a great thing, but it doesn’t really matter at this point, as long as we win,” Niemi said. “It doesn’t even matter if they score in the last five seconds as long as we win.”
I went to a fight the other night and a hockey game broke out.
- Rodney Dangerfield
Silence
I don’t know if it is my connection, or your silence. I expected at least one post debating the merits of the Norris candidates. I am not much older, but do remember Doug and Chris getting theirs. Not often it comes around to Chicago, there should have been at least one debate and post.
Maybe you are all still are out partying and enjoying the ethereal after affects of today’s game. When you get around to posting something, realize this is probably the most impressive and important game the Hawks have won in the last forty or more years. Lose, series over. The young men reached down, gave a squeeze and decided to play some puck. IMO I think this is the game that will be looked at from player and fan perspective as the catapult to seeing Lord Stanley hoisted in glory by the team in red.
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