Gaze Not Into The Abyss: A Look At The Opposition - Canuck Forwards
by McClure on Apr 12, 2011 8:59 PM CDT
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PrintAnd now we reach the thrilling conclusion to our preview of the Vancouver Canucks. Even relative to the other two aspects that have already been drilled into, this is where things get really icky. During the regular season, the Canucks boasted the number one offense in the league, as well as its top power play outfit. There's no use avoiding this unpleasantness, let's get right at it.
Nothing like a challenge to kick things off. Shall we start with last year's Art Ross trophy winner, or this year's? The Children of the Corn have played a cute little game of one-upsmanship these last two years, with Henrik winning last years Art Ross and Hart trophies, and now Daniel will lay claim to at least one of those this year, if not both. We know the drill with these two, Henrik is the setup man, Daniel the finisher, to the tune of a career high 41 goals this season. Henrik is dynamite for the most part at the dot, too, winning 52% of his draws. Their passing and cycling is aided by their innate, creepy sense of where one another is, and often leads to prime chances. They're aided by Alex Burrows, who's supposed to provide the physical element on the line, and can finish when given the space...in the regular season. While the twins will obviously get theirs, it's Burrows who's been but a rumor these past two post seasons, save for when he's yapping or slamming Kris Versteeg's head into the ice out of frustration. If Burrows can stay disciplined and keep on his game, this line alone may be too much for the Hawks. Duncan Keith and Brent Seabrook obviously figure to see as much of this line as possible. With Dave Bolland out until further notice, it will likely be Jonathan Toews that squares up against this monster. But if Bolland comes back, the hope has to be that he can very quickly pick up where he left off in being a major irritant toward all three. The key will be the defensive blue line for the Hawks, as they'll need to prevent clean and unabated entry which will slow the twins in establishing the cycle, as well as authoritative clears of the zone to keep the Twins time on the attack to a minimum. All easier said than done, of course.
Another line, another post-season award. Center and self-appointed arbiter of cowardice Ryan Kesler has enjoyed a breakout season himself, scoring 41 goals and all but assuring himself of the Selke trophy that he narrowly lost to Pavel Datsyuk last year. He's flanked by the floating Mikael Samuelsson and his oddly taped glove cuffs (seriously, I see no benefit in that whatsoever), and journeyman Chris Higgins at the moment. Kesler, much like Burrows, has to show that he's shaken his playoff disappearing act that's been his lot the past two years, and his offensive outburst suggests that he might. Kesler has been bothered by nagging injuries the past two years which may have hampered him, but otherwise he's got the markings of a killer, even in spite of his douchey Superman crest but with a "K" tattoo. Should he find the killer inside, it will make an already difficult task near impossible for the Hawks.
If Alain Vigneault has a brain in his head (the jury's still out), when at home he'll try his best to get Kesler out against Toews as he has in the past, leaving the Sedins out there to face god knows who if it's not Bolland. And even if AV doesn't bother with it, he's got his choice of other defensively iffy lines the Hawks will trot out there in Bolland's absence. This is where bad things go happen.
Were Raffi Torres not suspended and Manny Malhotra not done for the season with an eye injury, we'd likely find them here instead of Mason Raymond, who would find himself with Kesler on the second line. Raymond has been one of the few Canucks over the last two playoff that has consistently given the Hawks fits. He's fast, smart and tenacious on the forecheck, but he isn't Malhotra at the dot, because so few are. These aren't the usual bums that the Stalberg-Johnson-Kopecky line has been slaying over the past couple of months, however Torres' presence should not be overlooked. He's one of the true physical presences in the Canuck forward corps, and likely their best aggressive forechecker, something Hawks are known to not deal with well. With Torres out, that may provide the Hawk D-men even just a blink more time and space to break the puck out cleanly. That he'll be gone in the first two games in B.C. where the Canucks have struggled against the Hawks, and for doubt to creep in early in the series, is all the more reason that it will need to be taken advantage of early.
On the fourth line, we find Maxim Lapierre, who was certainly enough of a penis to have Anaheim trade for him, but they found him to be enough of a liability that they promptly flipped him to Vancouver for picks, so that'll tell you Bob Murray thinks of his ability to stay focused on hockey. When Lapierre isn't reveling in his own idiocy, he actually can score. Same story with Jeff Tambellini, except he's actually focused, and just lacks the jam. Should any of these three prove to be a liability, prospect Cody Hodgson is prepared to jump right in and gain valuable experience after being called up from Manitoba for the playoffs.
So, yeah, no big deal right?
While the regular season stats and eye test over the last 82 reveal a formidable opponent, the fact remains, as was stated with Kesler, that this team does not have a bona fide killer up front. Bolland's potential return, even not at 100% will greatly help with the matchup game, because there's just not enough up front for the Hawks to truly stack up this time around. The pressure is on them to show they can rise to the occasion. And this team is still coached by Alain Vigneault.
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Thanks for doing these
makes things easier for lazy people like me. God forbid I actually have to do the leg work and look stuff up.
Nymphin' Ain't Easy Fly Fishing
I faithfully promise to add absolutely nothing of value to this conversation whatsoever.
What is this "look stuff up" of which you speak???
Everyone dies. It is the only true and lasting justice in life.
Also, if Bolland were to return
would you expect him to be effective (enough) against that top line, given the fact he has not skated for real in god knows how long? Don’t get me wrong, I’d love to have him back, but I’m not sure how much of an impact he could have. Then again if it takes some of the shut down load off of El Capitan, that might be enough.
Nymphin' Ain't Easy Fly Fishing
I faithfully promise to add absolutely nothing of value to this conversation whatsoever.
by BigCSouthside on Apr 12, 2011 9:14 PM CDT up reply actions
yeah
if and when he shakes the haze, the Rat will enjoy quite the baptism by fire.
We like our people!
I think he'll be fine
Other than Tazer, I think Bolly really has an unreal ability to win and a competitive fire that will make up the difference in lack of on – ice time. He thrives on taking on the most difficult of defensive challenges, and rises to the occasion. If he thinks he’s ready and the staff feels likewise, I have a good feeling he’ll make VAN go nuts once again.
Nicely done, McClure...
Damn. Isn’t it Wednesday yet? Flipping channels, and there are guys in red, black, and white trying to put an object in a net… But something doesn’t seem right about it.
Let’s go Wednesday!!
Everyone dies. It is the only true and lasting justice in life.
Wednesday!!!
Is it Wednesday night yet?
Everyone dies. It is the only true and lasting justice in life.
Damn you guys
have sports abundance. I love Derrick Rose.
Coconuts go.™
"Things may come to those who wait, but only what’s left behind by those who hustle."
by eightyseven on Apr 13, 2011 12:37 PM CDT up reply actions
IHAB
I hate Alexandre Burrows. I think he’s a total piece of shit. I don’t get his appeal to anyone, whether or not he’s on my team. I think the original reason I finally came on this blog was to talk about how much I hate him. Vancouver fans will constantly talk about how he isn’t a total piece of shit but we all know he is. I wouldn’t want him on my team, no matter the scenario. He is the leading reason for why I dislike Vancouver more than probably any other team.
/end rant
by it'snotsomuchmeasitisroenick on Apr 12, 2011 9:14 PM CDT reply actions 1 recs
He's really fucking annoying
and kind of a dildo, but there is no man on skates I hate more than Todd Bertuzzi.
Nymphin' Ain't Easy Fly Fishing
I faithfully promise to add absolutely nothing of value to this conversation whatsoever.
by BigCSouthside on Apr 12, 2011 9:16 PM CDT up reply actions
Ugh, you may be right
I don’t really view him as a human being though.
by it'snotsomuchmeasitisroenick on Apr 12, 2011 9:41 PM CDT up reply actions
He gives Matt Cooke a run for his money
Both total douches, and both have ended promising careers of talented players.
We see Cooke maybe once a year (if he's not susupended when we play the Pens)
Burrows and That Fucking Criminal Bertuzzi are a constant source of dickery.
"Change the channel, Mike Milbury is making my IQ drop"
Nice write up
Raymond’s had a somewhat disappointing year so far after scoring 25 last campaign. At times he’ll just float around the perimeter of the O-zone and promptly lose the puck, or double clutch on breakaways. Going to C has seen his game improve a bit, but he’s still a question mark in my mind.
He’ll probably be back on the wing to start, as Hodgson has been centering that line at practice.
If you’re looking for possible opening line ups, it looks like the bottom 2 will be
Raymond-Hodgson-Hansen
Oreskovich-Lapierre-Glass
"Playin hurt, baby that don't faze me. I don't got time for pain. The only pain I've got time for is the pain I put on fools who don't know what time it is!"
"You can't come in my kitchen, kick my dog, and take a box full of ballpoints! Your ass must be crazy!"
At least
Until AV hits the scrambler
"Playin hurt, baby that don't faze me. I don't got time for pain. The only pain I've got time for is the pain I put on fools who don't know what time it is!"
"You can't come in my kitchen, kick my dog, and take a box full of ballpoints! Your ass must be crazy!"
you guys have one of those too?
Nymphin' Ain't Easy Fly Fishing
I faithfully promise to add absolutely nothing of value to this conversation whatsoever.
by BigCSouthside on Apr 12, 2011 9:22 PM CDT up reply actions
It's a new toy
Only used on the bottom six (normally). He picked it up when Malhotra went down.
"Playin hurt, baby that don't faze me. I don't got time for pain. The only pain I've got time for is the pain I put on fools who don't know what time it is!"
"You can't come in my kitchen, kick my dog, and take a box full of ballpoints! Your ass must be crazy!"
Maybe
He just likes the way Q coaches
"Playin hurt, baby that don't faze me. I don't got time for pain. The only pain I've got time for is the pain I put on fools who don't know what time it is!"
"You can't come in my kitchen, kick my dog, and take a box full of ballpoints! Your ass must be crazy!"
Brilliant
self-appointed arbiter of cowardice Ryan Kesler
by showtime8 on Apr 12, 2011 9:20 PM CDT reply actions 1 recs
Yeah, but...
The fact that Ladd showed him up last year means nothing, because HE ISN’T ON OUR TEAM ANYMORE! So you know, it doesn’t count, or so I’ve been told.
Andrew Ladd never existed.....he was a figment of our imagination.
Detroit Red Wings - Green Bay Packers - Minnesota Twins : Axis of Evil
For some reason
I cannot for the life of me remember why Kessler marked as a coward. Can someone refresh my memory? Alex Burrows yeah. He’s a hair pulling douche. Kessler?
Kesler called Ladd a coward
Based on this hit.
"I have only space enough to add: against the assault of desperate pandas nothing can stand."
-ChicoMaki (channeling Mark Twain)
by HungryHungryPanda on Apr 13, 2011 11:51 AM CDT up reply actions
I cant find the video
But Kelser challenged Ladd to a fight and Ladd nailed him with one punch and Kesler basically just tackled Ladd and went down.
When you instigate a fight, your supposed to, you know, actually fight.
Detroit Red Wings - Green Bay Packers - Minnesota Twins : Axis of Evil
by HjammerTime on Apr 13, 2011 12:06 PM CDT up reply actions
I just found this
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lb8eqmqepgs&feature=related
I guess grabbing the ref and cowering in the corner is sorta cowardly, eh?
Case closed.
Man, that game was a blast
I was at that game and it was the most exciting hockey game I’ve ever seen in person, and it was on my birthday. We chased Lu in that game too, with 5 goals in the first finished off by this beauty from Jordan Hendry.
"I have only space enough to add: against the assault of desperate pandas nothing can stand."
-ChicoMaki (channeling Mark Twain)
by HungryHungryPanda on Apr 13, 2011 12:19 PM CDT up reply actions
Thank you both.
Detroit Red Wings - Green Bay Packers - Minnesota Twins : Axis of Evil
by HjammerTime on Apr 13, 2011 12:26 PM CDT up reply actions
Here's the video you're referring to
"I have only space enough to add: against the assault of desperate pandas nothing can stand."
-ChicoMaki (channeling Mark Twain)
by HungryHungryPanda on Apr 13, 2011 12:17 PM CDT up reply actions
I love Ladd.
If he weren’t on such a shitty team, I’d consider buying his jersey even though he’s not on the Hawks.
by transienthawk on Apr 13, 2011 4:53 PM CDT up reply actions
Totally shallow and useless comment
I know the Sedins are supposed to be the creepy looking ones (and they kinda are), but that picture of Tanner Glass is freaking me out majorly. Also, he’s upset that Kane is “[mocking] the mullet,” what even man.
It's probably because
He sports one all the time
"Playin hurt, baby that don't faze me. I don't got time for pain. The only pain I've got time for is the pain I put on fools who don't know what time it is!"
"You can't come in my kitchen, kick my dog, and take a box full of ballpoints! Your ass must be crazy!"
I'm sorry.
I can’t believe someone would choose to have a mullet all the time and not just as a joke. Life doesn’t work that way, okay!
Mr. Jagr would like to have a word with you
SCH's Most optimistic poster and head of Kool-Aid distribution
NM's Most thoughtful Hawks fan and closet Canucks fan
There's always hope you whiny little bitches
Jaromir Jagr is also a certified badass
One of my favorite players, ever. His mullet is quite alright with me.
Gotta respect
Vezina winning era Belfour. Back in, I wanna say ‘93, he was sporting one of the meanest mullets I’ve ever seen.
Rock over London,
Rock on Chicago.
Diet Pepsi,
UH HUH!!!!
http://rock-on-chicago.blogspot.com/
by Campbell32 on Apr 13, 2011 4:34 AM CDT via mobile up reply actions
I thoguht they made you cut your hair in jail?
He is in jail right? The only Blackhawk ever to decline an autograph to little kid hjammertime.
/still bitter.
Detroit Red Wings - Green Bay Packers - Minnesota Twins : Axis of Evil
by HjammerTime on Apr 13, 2011 11:24 AM CDT up reply actions
He's paid a handsome sum of money to play hockey
It’s not the usual life!
"Playin hurt, baby that don't faze me. I don't got time for pain. The only pain I've got time for is the pain I put on fools who don't know what time it is!"
"You can't come in my kitchen, kick my dog, and take a box full of ballpoints! Your ass must be crazy!"
Aslong as Kaner's race stripes stay sharp
I approve
Am I paranoid? I don't know. I went to a therapist once, but I left before he gave me the diagnosis, cause he had it out for me.
by Detroit Must Die on Apr 12, 2011 10:23 PM CDT up reply actions
isn't someone
supposed to drop the “unlimited mullet potential” picture somewhere around here?
We like our people!
Playoffs Haiku Corner!
offensive pressure
and net presence will lead to
Weeping Bobby Lu
I have misplaced my pants
Cool!
Hank and Dan Sedin
Children of the corn that think
Dave Bolland is mean
Am I paranoid? I don't know. I went to a therapist once, but I left before he gave me the diagnosis, cause he had it out for me.
by Detroit Must Die on Apr 12, 2011 10:22 PM CDT up reply actions
I call your haiku and raise you a limmerick
there once was a goalie named bob,
who seemed the right man for the job,
but he was beat in 09,
2010 a second time,
how many years will we watch this man sob?
Answer: at least 3
by Billy Charlesbois on Apr 12, 2011 10:55 PM CDT up reply actions 1 recs
And didn't he play AHL in Nantucket?
"..and what's on your Christmas list, partner?" P. Foley
"I expect to get leather goods for Christmas.. a belt in the mouth, and a boot in the ass." D. Tallon, 1985
by Gate3anuhHalf on Apr 13, 2011 2:12 AM CDT via mobile up reply actions
Looked it up
He played for the Islanders affiliate, which was in Lowell, MA. If you really want to have a laugh at Mike Milbury’s expense, go read old Bobby Lu’s Wiki page. What an incompetent turd.
"I have only space enough to add: against the assault of desperate pandas nothing can stand."
-ChicoMaki (channeling Mark Twain)
by HungryHungryPanda on Apr 13, 2011 8:44 AM CDT up reply actions
hahahahaha
DiPietro’s selection supplanted Luongo as the highest-drafted goaltender in NHL history and the Islanders’ goaltender of the future. Consequently, Milbury traded Luongo to the Florida Panthers along with centre Olli Jokinen for winger Mark Parrish and centre Oleg Kvasha that same day on June 24, 2000
We like our people!
He also
Traded Chara and the pick that would become Spezza to the Sens for Yashin. Imagine if he wasn’t a complete fool? The Islanders would be actually good.
"Playin hurt, baby that don't faze me. I don't got time for pain. The only pain I've got time for is the pain I put on fools who don't know what time it is!"
"You can't come in my kitchen, kick my dog, and take a box full of ballpoints! Your ass must be crazy!"
and he is a great TV analyst?
along with McGuire (check out his record too).
Confusion will be my epitaph.
The Cup is ours until someone takes it from us.
It needs more cowbell.
Hahaha
he blows at that too.
Coconuts go.™
"Things may come to those who wait, but only what’s left behind by those who hustle."
by eightyseven on Apr 13, 2011 12:42 PM CDT up reply actions
Imagine, trading Luongo because he went apartment hunting...
In January 2000, Luongo was publicly criticized by Islanders general manager Mike Milbury for having gone looking for an apartment in New York on a game day before letting in seven goals to the Boston Bruins.29 Milbury told the media, “You can’t do that in the NHL. You have to prepare yourself.” Luongo defended himself by saying he did not divert from his usual game day routine by looking at just one apartment.
The really bad part for Luongo is that he ended having to sub-lease the apartment after Dustin Byfuglien moved into his kitchen.
"I have only space enough to add: against the assault of desperate pandas nothing can stand."
-ChicoMaki (channeling Mark Twain)
by HungryHungryPanda on Apr 13, 2011 11:33 AM CDT up reply actions 2 recs
I am
so damn excited. Really hoping the first game goes well or i will be chasing my jameson with maalox.
by putmeinthemadhouse on Apr 12, 2011 10:23 PM CDT reply actions
Even if game one doesn't go so well
I shall not lose hope.
However, if the Blackhawks find a way in Game 1 and doubts creep into the Canucks mind…
Am I paranoid? I don't know. I went to a therapist once, but I left before he gave me the diagnosis, cause he had it out for me.
by Detroit Must Die on Apr 12, 2011 10:25 PM CDT up reply actions
Hope
Is never lost, but it is always nice to start a series with a bang.
by putmeinthemadhouse on Apr 12, 2011 11:20 PM CDT up reply actions
just remember, it's best out of 7
and if it gets really bad, stacie always has optimism kool-aid for you to drink.
I'm already on an optimism IV
“whatever happens, this isn’t 2005…” (rocks back and forth)
Am I paranoid? I don't know. I went to a therapist once, but I left before he gave me the diagnosis, cause he had it out for me.
by Detroit Must Die on Apr 12, 2011 10:55 PM CDT up reply actions
Has Burrows been on the Sedin's line all or most of the season?
because that top line has some unusual numbers. To recap, here are their goal/assist numbers:
Burrows: 26G, 22A
Henrik: 19G, 75A
Daniel: 41G, 63A
The two things that jump out are 1) Henrik’s assist numbers are ungodly. He literally had to have earned an assist on every goal he was on the ice for. And conversely, considering that Burrows’ linemates had 60 goals and he only had 22 assists it seems like you would have to go out of your way to have that few on a line that is that productive. I’m guessing Burrows didn’t get a lot of PP time and the Sedins cleaned up there.
I don’t know that this means a whole lot in terms of useful analysis, but it does seem strange.
I think Burrows and Samuelsson were more or less interchangeable on the top line
Am I paranoid? I don't know. I went to a therapist once, but I left before he gave me the diagnosis, cause he had it out for me.
by Detroit Must Die on Apr 12, 2011 10:33 PM CDT up reply actions
Burrows missed
the first 12 games or so with a should injury. He also doesn’t play on the PP with the Sedins. So there are your two reasons.
<3 Boobies!
#WinitForManny
Kesler has like 3 goals in 20 playoffs games (off the top of my head)
If he finally shows up it might be trouble.
Good article but...
I think you put up two pictures of Henrik…
by graham37 on Apr 12, 2011 10:37 PM CDT reply actions 3 recs
Burrows played with injuries in the last two year's playoff series.
So, Hodgson will probably center the third line, but Semi already let you guys know about that.
Win it for Manny.
C Henrik Sedin #33: Vancouver Canucks Captain, 2010 Art Ross Trophy Winner and 2010 Hart Memorial Trophy Winner.
Nucks Misconduct's official black guy and first line center (Twitter's 1st line center also).
by Chuckles Canuckles on Apr 12, 2011 10:44 PM CDT reply actions
These canuck fans think they know everything
(in whiney voice) “Hodgson will probably cent … blah blah blah.”
Go put on your green suit and your cod piece and get ready for tomorrow night.
by Billy Charlesbois on Apr 12, 2011 10:47 PM CDT up reply actions 7 recs
Don't forget your tinfoil hat!
Oh, wait. You aren’t Scum fans. That’s next round.
LETS GO SIOUX!!!
by AirTrafficAJ on Apr 13, 2011 1:27 AM CDT up reply actions
So you're assuming
San Joes is going to lose? ;)
"Playin hurt, baby that don't faze me. I don't got time for pain. The only pain I've got time for is the pain I put on fools who don't know what time it is!"
"You can't come in my kitchen, kick my dog, and take a box full of ballpoints! Your ass must be crazy!"
If only to piss off my wife?
Yes.
LETS GO SIOUX!!!
by AirTrafficAJ on Apr 13, 2011 10:52 AM CDT up reply actions
A few bullet points
-This is maybe homerism, but I don’t think so, it smacks me odd that the Blackhawks core of forwards is being called the top heavy crew here. Unless, its being taken for granted that Brouwer and Bolland are ruled out for the series in totality.
- The Canucks scored only six more goals in 82 games than the Blackhawks, 258 to 252. The top three forwards of the Canucks, (Sedins and Kesler) accounted for 39.1% of the Canucks scoring. As i count, i also notice the Canucks boasted 3 20+ Goal scorers and the Blackhawks possessed 4. I’m also noticeing the hawks directed slightly more rubber on goal per game than the Canucks over the course of the season while giving up fewer shots per game.
- is any one else encouraged by the fact that the Canucks biggest producers are still their top playoff wallflowers?
- don’t get me wrong the top line is down right scary (and its not just the creepy blue swedish eyes), but without Malholtra how is this contigent of forwards any deeper than it has been in years past?
- Do I need a psychiatrist…if I say that I’d take RyJo centering Stalberg and Kopecky as my forth line over Tambellini, LaPierre, and Oreskovich any day of the week?
- I am going to go and make burnt offerings for the expedient and effective returns of Brower and Bolland.
Am I paranoid? I don't know. I went to a therapist once, but I left before he gave me the diagnosis, cause he had it out for me.
by Detroit Must Die on Apr 12, 2011 10:50 PM CDT reply actions
Bullet bullets
1. there is no homerism in the playoffs. this isn’t a time to be fair and well-reasonsed, this is a time to cut your enemies insides open and use their guts to grease our tanks!
2. the canucks will be lucky to score one fucking goal in the 4 games they are lucky enough to play us in.
3. good points, we got these motherfuckers right where we want them.
4. two cups in a row? i can hardly believe it! GOOOO HAWKS!!!
by Billy Charlesbois on Apr 12, 2011 10:59 PM CDT up reply actions
Finally a Patton reference
I’ve been waiting for someone more creative than I to adapt that speech for the playoff run
by HockeyFTW on Apr 13, 2011 10:58 AM CDT via mobile up reply actions
The very thought of losing to the Lu led Canucks is hateful to Blackhawks fans.
Thats why we have never, and will never lose a playoff series to these bastards.
Detroit Red Wings - Green Bay Packers - Minnesota Twins : Axis of Evil
by HjammerTime on Apr 13, 2011 11:04 AM CDT up reply actions
Solid post
Thanks for looking at the numbers so I didn’t have to.
Yep, yep, yeppers...
I’ve convinced myself this is not just an optical illusion, but the Blackhawks, while not as deep upfront as they have been in years past are still deeper than the Canucks minus Malholtra*
*that’s assuming (perhaps foolishly) that Brouwer and Bolland’s progress is coming along as swingly as the front office people let on.
Am I paranoid? I don't know. I went to a therapist once, but I left before he gave me the diagnosis, cause he had it out for me.
by Detroit Must Die on Apr 12, 2011 11:27 PM CDT up reply actions
*swimingly
Am I paranoid? I don't know. I went to a therapist once, but I left before he gave me the diagnosis, cause he had it out for me.
by Detroit Must Die on Apr 12, 2011 11:28 PM CDT up reply actions
Some of those points are pretty fair
I would honestly say the forwards between the two teams are pretty even. Goals is almost a wash, shots for are pretty much a wash too, shots against favours you, although who knows if that’s because the Canucks have had the lead more times (teams tend to be outshot when ahead).
I think the reason some were saying you are top heavy is because the three highest scoring forwards on the Hawks (Sharp, Toews, Hossa), which account for 36% of EV goals and 47% of PPG, tend to be on the same line at EV, while the Sedins and Kesler are split between two lines. And I know you have Kane on a separate line. So again, it’s pretty close.
I really think a lot of the series will hinge on whether Bolland comes back or not, and how soon. Without him, you guys are a lot weaker at C.
And I would take the ‘depth’ of this year over noted floaters Demitra and Bernier any day of the week
"Playin hurt, baby that don't faze me. I don't got time for pain. The only pain I've got time for is the pain I put on fools who don't know what time it is!"
"You can't come in my kitchen, kick my dog, and take a box full of ballpoints! Your ass must be crazy!"
This statement
although who knows if that’s because the Canucks have had the lead more times (teams tend to be outshot when ahead
Is it true? I mean, it would seem to be based on the goal differential, but good lord how many games were the Blackhawks up going into the third, only to get pummeled by like 15 shots and the inevitable game-tying or winning goal. I’m just curious to know if such a “known” statement is actually true.
"I have only space enough to add: against the assault of desperate pandas nothing can stand."
-ChicoMaki (channeling Mark Twain)
by HungryHungryPanda on Apr 13, 2011 8:49 AM CDT up reply actions
I swear
I have seen stats on it. I’m trying to find some. Maybe I misremembered, but it certainly passes the eye-test
"Playin hurt, baby that don't faze me. I don't got time for pain. The only pain I've got time for is the pain I put on fools who don't know what time it is!"
"You can't come in my kitchen, kick my dog, and take a box full of ballpoints! Your ass must be crazy!"
EYE-test affirmation
I agree with this.
How many times do you get a game within 1 or 2 goals, and you get the empty net at one end and see an 8 – 0 shot advantage for the last two minutes?
There is probably some validity to this.
Besides that, teams with solid defenses will (to play turtle/protect the lead) take away the crazy tough scoring areas, and allow the “harmless, easy to see wrist/slap shots” from the outside.
I think strictly on the eye test, it makes sense to me, as well.
Everyone dies. It is the only true and lasting justice in life.
Here we go
Shooting Percentage By Game State
Teams that are behind tend to outshoot their opponents, but the teams in the lead will end up with a higher scoring chances per shot ratio, because the trailing team takes more chances with higher risks.
It might not mean anything in relation to the Canucks shots against though
"Playin hurt, baby that don't faze me. I don't got time for pain. The only pain I've got time for is the pain I put on fools who don't know what time it is!"
"You can't come in my kitchen, kick my dog, and take a box full of ballpoints! Your ass must be crazy!"
I would say the depth at center
Is probably a wash as is with Bolland out for Game 1 and probably Game 2 as well.
With the prospects for Bolland and Brouwer being back at somepoint during the series I think it has to be encouraging that for the hawks that the longer the series goes, the deeper they become, as I think with Brouwer and Bolland inserted into the lineup the blackhawks actually have a more threatening bottom six than the Canucks.
Am I paranoid? I don't know. I went to a therapist once, but I left before he gave me the diagnosis, cause he had it out for me.
by Detroit Must Die on Apr 13, 2011 9:32 AM CDT up reply actions
From everything I read
Bolland could be back tonight or Wednesday, now I could be wrong but lets hope it’s a contact practice. Brouwer should be back and hopefully that removes Pisani
Yes but I wonder
which version of Bolland scates onto the ice.
Am I paranoid? I don't know. I went to a therapist once, but I left before he gave me the diagnosis, cause he had it out for me.
by Detroit Must Die on Apr 13, 2011 9:46 AM CDT up reply actions
Even if he can't suit up
will he be allowed to insult the Sedins’ mother from the bench?
Am I paranoid? I don't know. I went to a therapist once, but I left before he gave me the diagnosis, cause he had it out for me.
by Detroit Must Die on Apr 13, 2011 9:49 AM CDT up reply actions
or can we at least set him up with a hotline phone
from the pressbox to the Canucks’ bench?
Am I paranoid? I don't know. I went to a therapist once, but I left before he gave me the diagnosis, cause he had it out for me.
by Detroit Must Die on Apr 13, 2011 9:50 AM CDT up reply actions
Id rather have Pisani than Dowell.
Detroit Red Wings - Green Bay Packers - Minnesota Twins : Axis of Evil
Theres always KOPECKY!
…fuck
Am I paranoid? I don't know. I went to a therapist once, but I left before he gave me the diagnosis, cause he had it out for me.
by Detroit Must Die on Apr 13, 2011 9:51 AM CDT up reply actions
I know. Its depressing. Hurry back, Rat.
Detroit Red Wings - Green Bay Packers - Minnesota Twins : Axis of Evil
if we could only resurrect playoff Pisani from a few years ago
Confusion will be my epitaph.
The Cup is ours until someone takes it from us.
It needs more cowbell.
From Adam Jahns today
"It was headaches, and I was hazy and foggy," Bolland said. "I couldn’t drive. I couldn’t really do much. It was just sitting around my house doing nothing. It was pretty boring. Just a walk downtown or a walk somewhere to do something was an adventure. I think [last] Sunday was the day when I sort of snapped out of it, the headaches and everything."
We like our people!
That sounds absolutely miserable.
Detroit Red Wings - Green Bay Packers - Minnesota Twins : Axis of Evil
I don't wish a concussion on anyone
It sounds like a horrible experience
"Playin hurt, baby that don't faze me. I don't got time for pain. The only pain I've got time for is the pain I put on fools who don't know what time it is!"
"You can't come in my kitchen, kick my dog, and take a box full of ballpoints! Your ass must be crazy!"
Same here
He even said it was depressing. Who wouldn’t be. Truly tough situation that I hope he is ready to play soon.
As for removing players, i would love to remove Dowell but we need the Center since Kops was just mentioned and I might have a heart attack
Me either
Who would have ever guessed that Terry Bradshaw had several of them?
What were we talking about?
I thought neither
Was only for 2 or more things. That one has always confuzzed me. I always just say “I don’t either”
"Playin hurt, baby that don't faze me. I don't got time for pain. The only pain I've got time for is the pain I put on fools who don't know what time it is!"
"You can't come in my kitchen, kick my dog, and take a box full of ballpoints! Your ass must be crazy!"
I'm not even sure how to use this thing to be honest
I feel like I need a “oh hey don’t cross the streams” safety meeting.
according to the small kangaroo in the pouch
it’s “me neither.”
We like our people!
by cliffkoroll on Apr 13, 2011 10:10 AM CDT up reply actions
Heh... They do totally suck.
I wish no injuries on any players. Being concussed definitely sucks though.
Everyone dies. It is the only true and lasting justice in life.
I got a concussion in elementary school
’cause a bully ran me into the boards and I had an ill-fitting helmet. Yeah they suck.
Coconuts go.™
"Things may come to those who wait, but only what’s left behind by those who hustle."
Me as well
Although mine was from sliding on the ice during recess and somehow ran into a foot. Hit me barely above the eye (could have been very bad if it was any lower). I felt like I was going to throw up until pretty much the next day and had a whiteish tinge to the vision too. Not a fun experience
"Playin hurt, baby that don't faze me. I don't got time for pain. The only pain I've got time for is the pain I put on fools who don't know what time it is!"
"You can't come in my kitchen, kick my dog, and take a box full of ballpoints! Your ass must be crazy!"
I managed to get one sliding down some stairs on a blanket
at about 7 years old.
I’ve managed to get 6 others since then (mostly mild – 2 quite nasty) between Football, and Hockey.
The dizziness, haze, and nausea are absolutely unbearable when they are the bad ones.
There’s nothing like feeling that if you get upright, you’ll vomit till you die, but having no idea which way is up.
Everyone dies. It is the only true and lasting justice in life.
Not a concussion
but a tool wannabe athlete threw a 12 pound shot put while I was picking up my shot and it landed on my back.
I hate boys!
Coconuts go.™
"Things may come to those who wait, but only what’s left behind by those who hustle."
DeMitra...
Hated him as a Blues, LOVED him as a Canuck the last 2 playoffs.
I agree that therre are a lot fewwer floaters on the Van side this time around.
WAIT FOR THE WHISTLE!!!!
This is truely the best time of the year ...
thank you hawks for oozing into the playoffs.
by Billy Charlesbois on Apr 12, 2011 11:02 PM CDT reply actions
If Hawks knock out the Nucks in 1st round, they have a chance to beat the rest!
We can only expect the unexpected, and prove critics wrong. I love upsets and under dogs!!!. Turn and burn Hawks this is your second life!!!
The only team I truly fear
is the ducks. Hopefully nashville takes care of them, but they are a dangerous team as well.
by putmeinthemadhouse on Apr 12, 2011 11:33 PM CDT up reply actions
Detroit
I fear Detroit. yeah I said it
Nymphin' Ain't Easy Fly Fishing
I faithfully promise to add absolutely nothing of value to this conversation whatsoever.
by BigCSouthside on Apr 12, 2011 11:33 PM CDT up reply actions
Anyone who doesn't
is liable to regret it.
a more fearsome opponent than the one we currently find ourselves engaged with IMO.
Am I paranoid? I don't know. I went to a therapist once, but I left before he gave me the diagnosis, cause he had it out for me.
by Detroit Must Die on Apr 12, 2011 11:34 PM CDT up reply actions
I hate the Preds
and their stupid trap. Yes I said it trap, trap, trap, trap, trap. I really think they may give the Ducks a run for their money.
SCH's Most optimistic poster and head of Kool-Aid distribution
NM's Most thoughtful Hawks fan and closet Canucks fan
There's always hope you whiny little bitches
If they find a way
to score a goal.
Am I paranoid? I don't know. I went to a therapist once, but I left before he gave me the diagnosis, cause he had it out for me.
by Detroit Must Die on Apr 13, 2011 12:12 AM CDT up reply actions
Thanks Ackbar
I think I’m gonna rewatch Game 5 of that series to get my Good Panda mojo flowing
by Chris Roberts on Apr 13, 2011 10:12 AM CDT up reply actions
That whole series worries me
I know, first things first, but I wouldn’t want to play either of those teams
"Change the channel, Mike Milbury is making my IQ drop"
The earliest known photo of the twins
I'm without a home.
by HawkJaw on Apr 12, 2011 11:39 PM CDT reply actions 3 recs
thats fuckin scary, man
Nymphin' Ain't Easy Fly Fishing
I faithfully promise to add absolutely nothing of value to this conversation whatsoever.
by BigCSouthside on Apr 12, 2011 11:40 PM CDT up reply actions
Ha ha ha ha
Am I paranoid? I don't know. I went to a therapist once, but I left before he gave me the diagnosis, cause he had it out for me.
by Detroit Must Die on Apr 13, 2011 12:11 AM CDT up reply actions
Do you think that AP
Just uses the same photo of one of the twins over and over and over? Saves on having to pay a photographer.
LETS GO SIOUX!!!
Greetings.
As the Leafs are done and the Hawks are my No. 2 team, I’ll be setting up camp here for the next couple of weeks (and hopefully longer).
I think the big matchup issue you guys have right now was the breakup of the Ladd-Bolland-Versteeg line last year, which was pretty effective in shutting down the Canucks offense and getting some good chances of theirs. With 2/3 of that line gone now, and Bolland injured, that’s the biggest question mark for me. The Canucks are stoppable, but a big chunk of that is shutting down the Sedin line; I haven’t seen enough of the Hawks this season, but I don’t think they have anything comparable to that this season, do they?
The other issue: the Kesler line has become a major offensive threat this season, obviously. More to that point, Samuelsson is a pretty unheralded, dark horse kinda guy. Used to be that shutting down the Sedins would be enough to cripple them, but that may not be the case anymore.
Basically, the Hawks have the edge on D. If Crawford can play to Luongo’s level, you can find a line to match/shutdown the Canucks top six, Kane/Toews/Sharp score some timely goals (specifically drawing first blood early), and the Hawks stay disciplined and out of the box, they’ve got a decent shot here.
I dunno which way the cookie’s gonna crumble, but it should be an interesting series. Good luck, guys!
Visit my blog at: http://50-mission-cap.blogspot.com/
Leaf fan for life! (No, really. They gave me a no-trade clause when I was born.)
by FiftyMissionCap on Apr 13, 2011 2:14 AM CDT reply actions
A Canuck-fan point of view...
Torres’ presence should not be overlooked. He’s one of the true physical presences in the Canuck forward corps, and likely their best aggressive forechecker
It’s a bit of a tossup in my mind, but I’d pick Jannik Hansen as the Canucks’ best aggressive forechecker. Beaker (our nickname for him) is very under-rated, he’s a beast on the penalty kill and forecheck. His hands could use some work, but he’s a guy who can leap up and bite you in the gonads if you don’t watch him. One of my favorite Canucks, his work ethic is incredible.
Of course, now that I’ve written that, he’s gonna be a non-issue, just watch!
"We've made too many compromises already, too many retreats. They invade our space, and we fall back. They assimilate entire worlds, and we fall back. Not again. The line must be drawn here! This far, no further! And I will make them pay for what they've done!" - Captain Jean-Luc Picard
I thought that you guys..
left your gonad biting to Burrows.
Second City Hockey
I'm Abe Froman, and I approve this message.
Loving the new SCH headline
at the top of the page. Good reference, perfectly applicable to our current situation.
Rock over London,
Rock on Chicago.
Diet Pepsi,
UH HUH!!!!
http://rock-on-chicago.blogspot.com/
That's a Saturday Night Fever reference if I'm not mistaken
"Change the channel, Mike Milbury is making my IQ drop"
Damn it. Got the crazy Scientologist right though
"Change the channel, Mike Milbury is making my IQ drop"
Let's hope Rat can skate and
effectively get into the Sedin’s heads. And our shutdown D that is Marlboro 72 can play like they did last year against them.
Malholtra being out has to hurt them at the dot at least a little bit.
She said, "you might be sick, but you feel alright to me."
by HolyBlackhawksBatman on Apr 13, 2011 6:19 AM CDT reply actions
Um, He prefers "The Greyhound"...
"Jonathan Toews: Youngest Triple Gold Winner EVER...EVER is a LONG time, no script written for people like that"
"RatHound" it shall be...
Sounds even scarier than Rat
"Jonathan Toews: Youngest Triple Gold Winner EVER...EVER is a LONG time, no script written for people like that"
That sounds like a minor monster in an MMO or RPG
RatHound attacks with charge
"Change the channel, Mike Milbury is making my IQ drop"
Rat Bastard?
;)
Coconuts go.™
"Things may come to those who wait, but only what’s left behind by those who hustle."
WHAT
Cursing? I don’t believe it
"Playin hurt, baby that don't faze me. I don't got time for pain. The only pain I've got time for is the pain I put on fools who don't know what time it is!"
"You can't come in my kitchen, kick my dog, and take a box full of ballpoints! Your ass must be crazy!"
Hahah
this is nothing based on your standards.
Coconuts go.™
"Things may come to those who wait, but only what’s left behind by those who hustle."
Rat Terrier
cuz that’s a real dog breed. And they’re little and feisty.
"I have only space enough to add: against the assault of desperate pandas nothing can stand."
-ChicoMaki (channeling Mark Twain)
by HungryHungryPanda on Apr 13, 2011 4:10 PM CDT up reply actions
RJ17
Why can’t he be effefctive in Bollands role? I bet he can. Let’s hope Troy and Dave (New Vegas act) can go, but if they can’t, RJ, and Dowell are going to have to play like NHL centermen for 4 wins. RJ can do it, it’s Dowell that will be the problem.
What were we talking about?
What I mean is, you can win a series like this
W 2-1
L 4-0
W 3-1
L 4-0
W 2-0
L 3-0
W 1-0
Outscored in 3 games but win 4. It’s a 7 game marathon, these are not last years Sharks……………….?
What were we talking about?
OK so this is not really clear
Dowell and RJ can be shitty in 3 games out of 7. They need to play even with the competition for 4 games. Toews needs to be Toews.
FROLIK – can he deal with Kessler or whichever Sedin is a center? UMMMM, no.
This is why Bolland needs Hossa to loan him some head parts because Kessler is going to eat Frolik.
Q will be matchy with RJ and Toews to the point of vomiting. Bolland will make Q’s life much easier.
What were we talking about?
Maxim Lapierre
is a pest, no doubt about it, but during the Habs playoff run last year he was a different player; he was one of the hardest working guys on the ice every single night. Fast and without fear. Like TomoKop, only more coordinated and continually causing turnovers.
Regardless of his sub par year, we have to watch out for
Mason Raymond. He always seems to have our number. Regardless I think the Hawks come out swinging tonight. 4-3 Hawks in OT.
LOVE
the “history is etched in silver” NBC/VS ads with the shiny thing. So dramatic.
They'll have to pry the cup out of our cold, dead hands
Does anyone have a link
To the NHL’s History is made Vids? I’ve been trying to find them but can’t seem to locate on the NHL’s webpage. I think I’m blind today
NHL's Official YouTube Channel
Should have all the official ones.
Coconuts go.™
"Things may come to those who wait, but only what’s left behind by those who hustle."
by eightyseven on Apr 13, 2011 12:47 PM CDT up reply actions
Does anybody know of a site that lists PP opportunities, PPG, and PK Opportunities and PK goals by team and by game?
I can go game by game, but their were 1320 games so, not happening.
Preemptive Palomino, lets talk political stuff elsewhere .
Second City Hockey, It's not just about Hockey, it's Blackhawks Hockey!
by Toews-makes-funny-faces on Apr 13, 2011 9:37 AM CDT reply actions
Nevermind, I'm an idiot! lol
Preemptive Palomino, lets talk political stuff elsewhere .
Second City Hockey, It's not just about Hockey, it's Blackhawks Hockey!
by Toews-makes-funny-faces on Apr 13, 2011 9:38 AM CDT up reply actions
admission is the first step
SCH's Most optimistic poster and head of Kool-Aid distribution
NM's Most thoughtful Hawks fan and closet Canucks fan
There's always hope you whiny little bitches
Today will be the longest work day of all time....
Detroit Red Wings - Green Bay Packers - Minnesota Twins : Axis of Evil
Playoffs do that to ya
Work sucks, but at least there are some playoff links up to help! (thanks hack)
Good thing its a night time game as the little one at home will be asleep and I can enjoy without interuption
'working' is not how I would describe today.
I’m pretty much all hockey right now.
Detroit Red Wings - Green Bay Packers - Minnesota Twins : Axis of Evil
by HjammerTime on Apr 13, 2011 10:04 AM CDT up reply actions
These start times remind me
Of why I’ve become loathe to the baseball playoffs, with their typical start times after 8:30 PM (CST). Why on earth do the powers – that – be at the NHL think that a start time that late will appeal to the so – so fans that aren’t fanatics? They don’t call it the stupid league for nothing.
And don't tell me that's for the VAN fans
Hell, they don’t work too hard up there, most are home by 5 (kidding).
Productivity:
Threat level low
"Playin hurt, baby that don't faze me. I don't got time for pain. The only pain I've got time for is the pain I put on fools who don't know what time it is!"
"You can't come in my kitchen, kick my dog, and take a box full of ballpoints! Your ass must be crazy!"
My boss is a canucks fan
needless to say, I’m doing my best not to poison his coffee today
Am I paranoid? I don't know. I went to a therapist once, but I left before he gave me the diagnosis, cause he had it out for me.
by Detroit Must Die on Apr 13, 2011 10:28 AM CDT up reply actions
Hook up your ipad
To your laptop speakers and accidentally play Chelsea Dagger.
I feel like I'm already pushing the envelope
We don’t have an official “casual day” here, but each employee is allowed one casual day during the week, I definitely used today to wear my hawks sweater.
Am I paranoid? I don't know. I went to a therapist once, but I left before he gave me the diagnosis, cause he had it out for me.
by Detroit Must Die on Apr 13, 2011 11:06 AM CDT up reply actions
I said fuck it
and wore my personalized jersey today. Hell it cost more than what anyone else is wearing today.
by Chris Roberts on Apr 13, 2011 11:17 AM CDT up reply actions
Consider yourself lucky.
I’m off of work for a few more weeks.
I really can’t find anything else to actually fill my free time until game time tonight.
Everyone dies. It is the only true and lasting justice in life.
Work day is fine.
So far. I’ve been a wrecking ball. Tonight, from about 6:00 to 10:00… I’ll be schizo.
Are razor prices about to go up?
If it’s anything like gas, We could see double digit increases because.
I’m gonna miss Eager’s beard.
What were we talking about?
I've had
hockey dreams the last two nights. I don’t recall having any last year. Why am I so stressed about tonight? We already won the fucking cup.
I’m actually doing my best to work a lot today to keep my mind off the playoffs starting. Of course hanging out here all day won’t help.
and just my .02, I think our chances of winning are about 20% less without the Rat to mind fuck the top line.
so is the plus / minus enough
that the girlfriend gets to watch the game with you?
SCH's Most optimistic poster and head of Kool-Aid distribution
NM's Most thoughtful Hawks fan and closet Canucks fan
There's always hope you whiny little bitches
Poor Girl
Has to get up at 5am to go to PA in the morning so she’ll be in bed when the game starts. Kinda weird that it was the same kind of night when the Hawks won the cup. I hope the Hawks give me plenty of reasons to keep waking her up.
by Chris Roberts on Apr 13, 2011 1:55 PM CDT up reply actions
If I didn't hate Kesler enough
That tattoo has pushed me over the freaking edge! How big of a fucking douchebag do you have to be to put your initial into the Superman shield?! Maybe it’s because I’m a huge dork, but this is one of the most self-centered, egotistical, ridiculously asshole thing a dude can do.
If you get that tattoo, you better be the best at what you do, and be a hardass. Fuck this guy
"Change the channel, Mike Milbury is making my IQ drop"
Samuellson's taped gloves
It is odd….could be a branding issue – he prefers gloves that are not made by his sponsor, perhaps?
by HighTrafficArea on Apr 13, 2011 1:54 PM CDT reply actions
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