For NHL Fans

[Red Fire]

Okay here it is, The Hockey Discussion Thread (made by Red Fire, hockey's #1 fan). This thread is for telling me your favorite teams, discussion about the drafts/trades, and for all those who don't get some of the rules of hockey, you can ask away.

1. My Favorite Team is: The Toronto Maple Leafs
2. I really think Toronto should keep Joe and Ed b/c they are the best players
3. I really think that Jaques Martin going to Florida is a good move and a bad one (Florida sucks so why should they have a great coach?, and it is a good move b/c he may make Florida a better team)

So there you go, start your comments from there, and add please

[max2k106]

hello, play hockey, left wing, goodbye

[Jeffery]

Defense, wing, Ref.......
Of course this was in the Wisconsin Amature Hockey Association as a kid.....

[Red Fire]

Listen guys I really meant for this thread to talk about NHL hockey and what is going on there, not your personel hockey experiences

[Red Fire]

Doesn't anyone want to talk about hockey?

[Serge]

You picked an inoppurtune time to start this thread as it's right after the end of the NHL season. I have three things to say...

1. I'm the NHL's biggest fan.
2. My favorite team is the Dallas Stars
3. Luongo should have gotten the Vezina this year.
4. I lied I have more than three things to say.
5. Niedermayer is in no way, shape, or form the NHL's best defenseman and should not have received the Norris.
6. Jere Lehtinen is the greatest Defensive forward ever, and though he shouldn't have won the Selkie this year, it should be renamed the Lehtinen Trophy anyway.

[PlatinumG]

'Guess I could chime in here:

1.) Fav Team: Dallas Stars (since '95-'96...)
2.) Joe and Ed are indeed great players, and I still dislike the fact that Dallas let them go...though it did work out for the better since Turco became the #1 Goalie 'n all.;)
3.) I agree w/ Serge on #'s 5 and 6.
4.) I think the stars need to take a good look at their roster...get rid of Tugnutt (no use), Turgeon (need I say more?), and Guerin (He's a great player, but he'd do better on a team where he's "THE" star).
5.) They also need to bring up a few of their prospects: Miettinen, Ellis or Smith, Tjarnqvist, Daley etc.
6.) I like the fact that they're grooming Morrow to be the next captain, should Mikey leave. He's a terrific player, and he deffinately deserves it.

...I'll probably have more to say later, but that's all I've got right now:D

-PG

[Red Fire]

I agree with Serge about the Luongo thing, I have no idea how Martin Brodeur won that, it should have been Luongo b/c he set a new record for most saves in a season. It's not his fault if his team can't score.
I don't know if I really agree with all that PG siad. I also think that Nash being on Columbus is a good waste of talent. He is one of the best players in the NHL right now and he is on a really crappy team.
I also think that with the 2004 NHL drafts approaching, the tension will be on Detroit, because, they could stay with their current roster and have a bunch of veterns or they could try a Tampa Bay move and go for veterns mixed with a bunch of rookies, that way they have both, speed and experience.

[PlatinumG]

Originally posted by Red Fire
I don't know if I really agree with all that PG siad. I also think that Nash being on Columbus is a good waste of talent. He is one of the best players in the NHL right now and he is on a really crappy team.
I also think that with the 2004 NHL drafts approaching, the tension will be on Detroit, because, they could stay with their current roster and have a bunch of veterns or they could try a Tampa Bay move and go for veterns mixed with a bunch of rookies, that way they have both, speed and experience.

I think Nash should stay where he is, for all we know, he could be the next Jarome Iginla, traded away for a decent veteran, but he turns out to be the better of the two players. Besides, if he goes anywhere, it'll most likely be to one of those 'Dream Teams' where the whole team is full of vets, and he'll just waste away all of his talent. At least in Columbus he's got a chance to stand out on the team.

Speaking of the Draft, who do you think'll go first, Ovechkin or Montoya? (both ranked #1 in their positions). I do agree with you about Detroit, but I think it's doubtful they'll go with a TB setup, as they see it, they've got Datsyuk and Zetterburg to fall back on...though they still have a good chance to snatch some good players.

-PG

[Serge]

The Capitals have the first pick right? If so then I think it'll be Ovechkin. As of now, the Caps' best forward is Halpern, and they have Kolzig holding up the net.

Second, I like the Blue Jackets a little, since I used to live in OH and I always like to root for the underdog, and I don't think they should trade Nash anywhere. As PlatinumG said, he would probably end up on NYR, the Wings, or the Avs, which would ruin any chance he has at becoming a great.

Third, I don't see much wrong with Turgeon, and from reading stuff on the Dallas Stars's website, Tugnutt is pretty much gone. (There was a whole news story about Bacashiua and Smith fighting for the back-up spot with no mention of Ron) Although I agree that they need to use Miettinen and their other prospects more. (esp. Miettinen and Ott) I also don't see why they aren't playing Niko Kapanen, from the games I have seen him play with the Stars he fits into the team quite well.

Fourth, about Morrow being the next captain, I agree with you on that as well. Morrow is one of my favorite players on the Stars (right after Lehts and Zubie) but I don't see Mike leaving anytime soon. I can't imagine Modano playing for any team other than the Stars for the rest of his career. Not because the Stars won't give him up, but b/c they can't. I don't think any team sees him as worth his pay, and the fact that he will want to be their #1 guy.

[Red Fire]

Well maybe you're right about Nash, and also, Chicago is trying to made a deal with Washington to try to get the #1 pick in the NHL Draft. I do agree with Serge about that guy being the #1 pick.
Now about that Mike being too much money for teams, it's true just take a look at Belfour from Toronto, he wants too much for his poisition, (I still think that should keep him b/c he is the best goalie Toronto has had since Felix Potvin). The Flyers also have to deal with money problems with two of their players, John LeClair, and Tony Amonte. Between the two they want a total of $28 million over the next 2 years. They maybe worth it but the Flyers don't have that kind of money. The signing of free agents will be huge, seeing as some of 'good' players want a little too much money. That's another factor that clubs will have to deal with. I can't wait for the drafting to begin!

[PlatinumG]

Originally posted by Serge
The Capitals have the first pick right? If so then I think it'll be Ovechkin. As of now, the Caps' best forward is Halpern, and they have Kolzig holding up the net.

Good point, Kolzig is a solid #1 and he does have a couple of potential backups within the club already. So here's an interesting one...Pittsburgh are up second, and from what I saw of them, they need both goaltending and offensive talent, would you think they'd go with a goalie (Montoya) or a skater (Ladd, Barker, Malkin)?

Third, I don't see much wrong with Turgeon, and from reading stuff on the Dallas Stars's website, Tugnutt is pretty much gone. (There was a whole news story about Bacashiua and Smith fighting for the back-up spot with no mention of Ron) Although I agree that they need to use Miettinen and their other prospects more. (esp. Miettinen and Ott) I also don't see why they aren't playing Niko Kapanen, from the games I have seen him play with the Stars he fits into the team quite well.

Certain things about Turgeon on the ice make me feel like he shouldn't be there, and though he did collect points, he was rather inconsistant through the majority of the season...if that were to happen again this year (if there is a this year...), I'd like to see him gone...I just don't like him.

I read the story on Bacashiua and Smith jocking for the backup position, and I've noticed the fact that Tugnutt is an unrestricted free agent at this point, so it's more than likely that Dallas won't sign him again, which should work out better as Dallas have 3 fine youngsters waiting to proove themselves. Personally, I think all three of them have a great shot at making the #2 spot, given that Ellis did just win the Kelly Cup with the Steelheads...I'd say that gives him a slight advantage, perhaps.

It is strange the see Niko sitting so much, I think it was just a sophomore slump though...hopefully he'll be back to his usual play this year, and he should see more consistant ice time, hopefully with Lehtinen and Miettinen (I'd love to see a full finnish line: Lehtinen, Kapanen, Miettinen, Numinen, one of their prosepects [Vainio, perhaps?]). Ott should deffinately see elevated ice time this year, as should Daley. They're going to be terrific players very shortly, it'll be good to see them on the ice a bit more.

Fourth, about Morrow being the next captain, I agree with you on that as well. Morrow is one of my favorite players on the Stars (right after Lehts and Zubie) but I don't see Mike leaving anytime soon. I can't imagine Modano playing for any team other than the Stars for the rest of his career. Not because the Stars won't give him up, but b/c they can't. I don't think any team sees him as worth his pay, and the fact that he will want to be their #1 guy.

I wasn't suggesting the Stars get rid of Modano, they'd better not! Modano is perhaps the best player the stars have (next to Lehtinen and Zubov), to give up on him would be madness. He deffinately won't leave the Stars without just reason, he's far too loyal and too important to the team. I agree that most teams will think he's overpaid, especially after this past season, but to think that there aren't teams out there that would love to snatch him up regardless of price (hell, look at NYR) would also be wrong. Mikey's perhaps the best skater in the NHL today, any team would love to have him.

Anyway, back to Morrow -- He'll deffintely be the Captain one day, after all, that's why they're grooming him. It's not that I dislike Modano as the captain, he's the best player the Stars have at this point, but chances are he'll be retiring in a few seasons, so it's only proper to start grooming Morrow to fill his shoes. He'll make a fine captain, sort of a miniature Derian Hatcher.

-PG

[Serge]

Yeah, I knew you didn't mean that the Stars would get rid of Modano, no Stars fan would want that. I think he's one of the best skaters too, he can skate his way through any D.

Is the draft gonna be televised? I would love to watch the first round. Also, has the league got everything worked out? Is there going to be a season...this season?

[Red Fire]

Um, well yes the drafts will be televised but it depends on what cable/sat you have. If you get ESPN they will have it, or FOXSPORTS NET, they'll have it also. It should be exciting, and regarding the season, the league doesn't know yet, there maybe a strike and they haven't a clue when it'll happen, so no one knows if there will be a season next year. But if there will be, who do you guys think will win the cup?

[PlatinumG]

Originally posted by Red Fire
Um, well yes the drafts will be televised but it depends on what cable/sat you have. If you get ESPN they will have it, or FOXSPORTS NET, they'll have it also. It should be exciting, and regarding the season, the league doesn't know yet, there maybe a strike and they haven't a clue when it'll happen, so no one knows if there will be a season next year. But if there will be, who do you guys think will win the cup?

Dallas, naturally :p. Though in all seriousness, I'm expecting the Wings and the Devils to have a huge turnaround year after their poor playoff performances, so I'd say they'll be the usual top contenders again. I doubt TB will repeat, they've got a good team, but if Philly get their game back, and NJ have the year I'm thinking they will, they won't get too far.

If there isn't a league next year, it's at least nice to know that the WHA will be starting up, so there'll be something to watch either way...and Dallas has an original 6 team, so I'll have a team to follow :). Realistically, I think they'll figure something out, but it'll probably take a chunk out of the season...:(

-PG

[Serge]

Yeah, I'm just mad that two seasons in a row Dallas got eliminated in the playoffs by teams they could have beaten.

As for the strike, if it happens, I'll just have to suffer, as I only have access to NHL games, no WHA or any other hockey for that matter. I'll have to watch it on ESPN.

Interestingly, when the playoffs started, I called for TB to make it to the finals, but of course I was hoping for the Stars to go for the west. :( As for this season, I see NJ and Detroit making comebacks as well, but I think the real teams to watch are going to be Boston and Toronto.

[PlatinumG]

I think Toronto have a chance, but realistically, they need more speed players to combine with their veterans. Sure, they've got Stajan now, but they could always use a couple more. They also need to do something about Domi and Tucker, either sit them or play them, not just send them out to stir up trouble...at least Darcy Tucker has some hockey skills to speak of, unlike Tie Domi. So long as they keep Eddie, Joe, and Alex Mogilny they've got a decent shot, so you could have a good pick there.

I don't think Boston'll be a realistic 'powerhouse' or contender for at least another year or two, since Raycroft still needs a little work in the net. They also need a decent third goalie to work with, and since loosing Guerin to the Stars, I didn't see too much out of Thornton that season, so it might be a good idea for them to bring in a few offensive players. Though I have to admin, Gonchar has been a great fit for the Bruins so far! I also think Andy Hilbert could be a good player in the future, so they've got people to build the team around...

I'd like to see Anaheim ('03) or Washington ('97) getting back to their top form again as they were really good competitors, but I don't see that happening for either team anytime soon, sadly.

-PG

[Red Fire]

Well I do think Toronto has a chance, if they get speed players (As PG stated), but Satjan isn't their only speed player, here are some of their speed players: Alex, Belax, Wilms, Tucker, McCabe, Kaberle.
Now yes they do have a lot of vets such as: Leetch, Joe, Eddy, Ron Francis (unfortanetly they think he is retiring and has already played his last game). If they can get a few good rookies, the vets can give them the experience they need to be both speed players and vets.
As for the Boston situation, they have good players like Joe Thorton, but they can't get cockie (as they did with Montreal).
Pittsburgh may have been the lowest point team this year, but they have to realize that they have a goalie who will be big someday, Calgary realized that and look where it got them.
I really think that the Stanley Cup will be in Pittsburgh next year. I would like Toronto to break out of this cup drought, it's been 35 years without a cup if I can remember.

[Serge]

It's odd that neither of you mentioned Mats Sundin...

[Red Fire]

Mats? he's fast but not considered a speed player. He's in the middle. Has the experience and the speed, that's why i didn't mention him

[Serge]

I guess you're right Red. I just can't wait for the season to start. I can't wait to spend all the late school night's watching Dallas games since I live all the way in DC and most of their Conference is in Cali.


Sidenote: I am rating this thread a 5, it's the best in TAO. It's the only one with good, polite conversation and it's all on topic. :D

[Red Fire]

I have to agree with Serge, (about the whole best thread thing, even though I made it), it is just 3 people having a good, solid conversation about hockey.
Yeah me too, the season should be excellent (if there will be one), I always hate how hockey starts the same time school starts, I mean, what am I going to watch for sports all summer, baseball?, that's not even a sport (in my book it isn't)

[Red Fire]

Oh and by the way, I would like to know your comments on the Todd Berttizzi incident. I would like to know if you guys think he should be allowed to play next year.
Myslef, I think he should be allowed to play in the season, but when it comes playoffs, suspend him for 5 games

[PlatinumG]

Originally posted by Red Fire
Well I do think Toronto has a chance, if they get speed players (As PG stated), but Satjan isn't their only speed player, here are some of their speed players: Alex, Belax, Wilms, Tucker, McCabe, Kaberle.
Now yes they do have a lot of vets such as: Leetch, Joe, Eddy, Ron Francis (unfortanetly they think he is retiring and has already played his last game). If they can get a few good rookies, the vets can give them the experience they need to be both speed players and vets.
As for the Boston situation, they have good players like Joe Thorton, but they can't get cockie (as they did with Montreal).
Pittsburgh may have been the lowest point team this year, but they have to realize that they have a goalie who will be big someday, Calgary realized that and look where it got them.
I really think that the Stanley Cup will be in Pittsburgh next year. I would like Toronto to break out of this cup drought, it's been 35 years without a cup if I can remember.

Honestly, I think Pittsburgh have a long way to go if they're going to see a Stanley Cup anytime soon. They waited almost half of the season to figure out that Marc-Andre Fluery wasn't their best goalie, and when they did finally get around to Sebastian Caron after using Jean-Sebastian Aubin for a while, it was too late to do anything about it. They also need to find a few good vets to put back into their roster. Sure, they picked up some talented youngsters in Lasse Pirjeta, Landon Wilson, Jon Sim (ok, so he's not really a youngster;)), Rico Fata, and Ric Jackman, but they're looking for Mario to be their superstar game in and game out, when he only played 10 game this previous season. It'd be nice to see them win a cup soon, but in all likelyhood, it won't happen. They need goal-scorers, defensemen, and two decent goalies before they can even consider a cup run. They also need to work on team chemistry...I'd say maybe two years before they start looking towards the cup, maybe less.

I have to agree with you about Stajan not being Toronto's only speedy guy, they do have a couple of them, but they still need more young speed to build the team around, so they can look towards cup runs now and in the future. Building around veterans is what causes a lot of teams to fail once they (the vets) retire...because they didn't manage to build around their youngsters. Dallas has finally started doing this (Morrow, Ott, Daley, etc.), but teams like Detroit and NYR won't stand a chance once Yzerman, Hull, Jagr, Lindros, etc. are all gone.

Originally posted by Serge
It's odd that neither of you mentioned Mats Sundin...

Mats is a good player, but he's getting to the point where his talent is sort of dwindling (still showing flashes of brilliance, but not his usual self). As Red Fire mentioned, he's moved sort of towards the middle, between speed and experience, he just has to decide which one to excell in again.

Originally posted by Serge
Sidenote: I am rating this thread a 5, it's the best in TAO. It's the only one with good, polite conversation and it's all on topic. :D

I have to agree with you there, this has deffinately become one of the better threads on TAO, in my opinion. I've also given it 5 Stars :D

Originally posted by Red Fire
Oh and by the way, I would like to know your comments on the Todd Berttizzi incident. I would like to know if you guys think he should be allowed to play next year.
Myslef, I think he should be allowed to play in the season, but when it comes playoffs, suspend him for 5 games

I think he should be allowed to play next season, and through the playoffs, but he should be forced to give up "X" amount of money to the Hockey Fights Cancer Association in a continuation of his punishment (if he can't respect the competition, he should be forced to pay for it). What he did was disgraceful in every sence of the word, and he deffinately deserved his suspension, but to suspend him any further would just aggrivate him even more, doing something like taking a certain percent of his salary to put into a useful fund is a just punishment, and shouldn't hurt him too much.

Realistically, it was an absolutely terrible thing he did, but it's over now, and suspending him again wouldn't be the right way to go, so it'd be a decent punishment to take away a certain percent of his wages.

Originally posted by Red Flame
I have to agree with Serge, (about the whole best thread thing, even though I made it), it is just 3 people having a good, solid conversation about hockey.
Yeah me too, the season should be excellent (if there will be one), I always hate how hockey starts the same time school starts, I mean, what am I going to watch for sports all summer, baseball?, that's not even a sport (in my book it isn't)

I know what you mean, baseball isn't fun to watch at all, which makes summer like a double edged sword -- no work, and no hockey.

I'm anxiously awaiting next season (the potential next season, that is), it should be exciting to see some real action again, and it'll be interesting to see if TB can repeat their success, or if the perrenial contenders will be back (NJ, Detroit, Dallas, etc.)

-PG

[Serge]

Isn't it great that when things are good they are given *Stars*

Anyways, I think the idea of Bertuzzi giving money to the Hockey Fights Cancer Fund is a good one. What he did was wrong, he not only hurt the guy he hit but he hurt the sport he's devoted his life to. That hit really set hockey back, I heard many people talk about that like it was commonplace in hockey. I told my history teacher (the soccer coach) that hockey was superior to soccer, and he replied with "Yeah, especially if you want someone to sneak up behind you and attempt to end your career..."

[PlatinumG]

Originally posted by Serge
Isn't it great that when things are good they are given *Stars*

Anyways, I think the idea of Bertuzzi giving money to the Hockey Fights Cancer Fund is a good one. What he did was wrong, he not only hurt the guy he hit but he hurt the sport he's devoted his life to. That hit really set hockey back, I heard many people talk about that like it was commonplace in hockey. I told my history teacher (the soccer coach) that hockey was superior to soccer, and he replied with "Yeah, especially if you want someone to sneak up behind you and attempt to end your career..."

lol, it's always nice giving "Stars" where they are needed :D

Sadly, that hit deffinately did set hockey back a bit, and it's bound to be the main defense in any sporting debate on the anti-hockey side for a while to come, given that it came when hockey was finally getting to a decent spot in most peoples' eyes, and comments like that of your teacher are bound to come up now.

Burtuzzi can claim the 'heat of the moment' excuse all he wants, but that was a deliberate attempt to injur someone, and nothing justifies it.

-PG

[Red Fire]

I don't know about that whole "stars" thing, of course it is kind of ironic
I do have to agree with PG about the whole Todd thing, I guess they shouldn't suspend him, it would make him more angry and when he gets back he may take that anger out again. You two make very good points about hockey that I really passed over. I am really glad I made this thread :D
About the whole Pittsburgh has to wait about 2 years, you're probably right, they also need some more people at their games. Their stadium set records for lowest crowd.
About PG's comment about Mario, yes they do rely on him too much, he isn't a "super player", I think they have to wake up and smell the coffee, 1 person isn't going to give them a cup, good point PG.
Lol and your comment Sege from your soccer coach, Royal Canadian Air Farce made a similiar comment, here it is:
"Historians discovered that Hockey was made in the USA after they found a painting of a man sucker-punching another man in the back of the head", it was a good comment.
I also have to agree with what Serge said that it hurt the NHL and I think that's another factor that is being taken in abotu creating another season.
I would also like to hear some of your comments of this year's World Cup of Hockey. GO CANADA!

[PlatinumG]

I think it'll be a good competition, having seen the lineups, it should deffinately be a challenge for all teams involved. I think Finland have a great chance of winning, given that they've got Kipprusoff, Toskela, and Lehtonen in goal (three very solid goalies), they've also got the experience of Teppo Numinen, Jere Lehtinen, Teemu Selanne, and Saku Koivu to mix with the youth and speed of Niko Kapanen, Kimmo Timonen, Ville Nieminen, etc. Though I think Antti Miettinen should have been selected also, it's good to see Niko will be playing for his country. The Czechs have a good chance also, with Vokoun in net, Jagr up front, and Hamrlik on D, along with the other veteran players they have...but they're lacking in youth, so it'll be hard to keep up with the likes of the Finns. The Swedes I'm not too sure about...I'm not too fond of their goalies, and they've got a rather equal mix of vets and youngsters, it should be interesting. As for the Germans, I'm not too fond of many of their players, so I daren't comment about them. Russia also has a good lineup, so they should be a good competitor, and as usual the N. American teams have the NHL Superstars leading the way...but I still have to go with the Finns, they've got a great lineup!

-PG

[Serge]

I'm of course a USA fan, and with Mike Modano on their team, of course it can be said they have some of the best players in the world. :D

I have also always liked Finland for some reason, it may be because of Lehts, but regardless of the reason I would like to see them do good this year.

As for Canada, well, it's Canada, I don't think we're going to be seing a bad Canadian team for a long time...

[PlatinumG]

Going back to the Bertuzzi incident momentarily, I just read this on NHL.com

From NHL.com
NHL statement regarding criminal charges against Todd Bertuzzi

NEW YORK (June 24, 2004) -- In response to the filing today of an assault charge against Todd Bertuzzi of the Vancouver Canucks by authorities in Vancouver, the following statement was released by Bill Daly, NHL Executive Vice President and Chief Legal Officer:

"As we stated at the time the suspension was imposed, we believe the League rendered an appropriate decision, one that was stern and swift. We did what we believe was right, for the players involved and the sport as a whole.

"We, therefore, would have preferred that the Crown not take this action. Having said that, the Vancouver authorities have made their decision and we remain committed to offering our full cooperation in any way we can."

It should be interesting to see if anything futher comes of this.

-PG

[BoosterJuice]

alright its time i steped in and told you all the truth
1. Fav team:Calgary Flames
2. reason why they are fav team: I live in calgary
3. Best team in NHL: according to history Detroit Red Wings are the best team in the NHL
4. why Red wing sux: Because the Flames kicked their sry litte buns
5. Dam Martin Broduer: He does not deserve anything close to a trophy. He did terible this entier year plus Mikka Kippersoff rose from the wrost goalie to the top golie and got no reccognition for it. NIcolia Khabbiboulon was also one of the top goalies of the year and got noting but to hold the cup. Im going to damand for the rights of our great and amasing goalies and get back at martin B.
6. Haha Stevey Y got his eye hit by a puck lol
out of all this i have come to a conclusion Calgary will rise to be a great team.
It was a great stanly cup run and id like to congradulate all the crapy teams that didnt make it past the first round for being smart and loseing

[Serge]

Calgary seemed to have a lot of luck on their side in the post season. I still don't understand how they beat San Jose...

[PlatinumG]

Originally posted by BoosterJuice
alright its time i steped in and told you all the truth
1. Fav team:Calgary Flames
2. reason why they are fav team: I live in calgary
3. Best team in NHL: according to history Detroit Red Wings are the best team in the NHL
4. why Red wing sux: Because the Flames kicked their sry litte buns
5. Dam Martin Broduer: He does not deserve anything close to a trophy. He did terible this entier year plus Mikka Kippersoff rose from the wrost goalie to the top golie and got no reccognition for it. NIcolia Khabbiboulon was also one of the top goalies of the year and got noting but to hold the cup. Im going to damand for the rights of our great and amasing goalies and get back at martin B.
6. Haha Stevey Y got his eye hit by a puck lol
out of all this i have come to a conclusion Calgary will rise to be a great team.
It was a great stanly cup run and id like to congradulate all the crapy teams that didnt make it past the first round for being smart and loseing

Try and keep it to a civil level...this is just a friendly hockey discussion thread, after all.

Martin Broduer did just fine this year, all things considered, though he deffinately didn't deserve the Vezina for it. Why did he win it? He allowed the fewest goals and he lead the goaltenders in wins and shutouts, despite other goalies' play this year.

There were a few teams that could have beaten Calgary this year, they just didn't have the same luck that Calgary did, so they never had the chance to face them (Calgary), so just be careful when you try to insult other teams...let's not forget that Calgary didn't quite go all the way, now did they?

Yes, Stevie Y got hit in the eye with a puck...not entirely sure what you're trying to point out there, but at least there's one fact I drew out of that post.

Calgary are already a formidable opponent, they did just win the Camble Bowl didn't they? Though I don't think we'll be seeing them in the Finals again for the next couple of years, after there poor showing this year, Detroit are going to do all they can to get back on top.

Originally posted by Serge
Calgary seemed to have a lot of luck on their side in the post season. I still don't understand how they beat San Jose...

...Marko Sturm not being there really hurt them. Sure Ricci stepped up to try to fill his shoes, but those are very large shoes to fill. :)

-PG

[Red Fire]

Okay Booster, please no flaming/swearing, this is a friendly thread where PG, Serge and I have our discussions about what we think about the Hockey world today. Also, you are kind of late with saying all that, and plus it isn't funny how Steve got hit in the eye with a puck. A serious injury like that could ruin one of the best players in the NHL career.
I was also wondering if you guys know the dates when the NHL is going to have a private talk with Todd to tell him whether he can play hockey next year.
I would also like to add that Kippersuff was never considered a "terrible" goalie Booster, he was the back-up goalie for the Sharks before he was traded to Calgary and this isn't the first good goalie Calgary has had. Roloson (one of the NHL 2004 Allstars), he was Calgary then they traded him b/c they thought he sucked. Also I think I am the only one who can say Detroit sucks, since I live near Windsor, Ontario. My family/friends are slpit when it comes to choosing whether to like the Maple Leafs, or Detroit Dead, oops, I mean Detroit Red Wings:D

[iron-rain]

I like the Flyers.

[Serge]

Yeah, I here most of the Red Wings live just across the border in Canada, because it's nicer (and cheaper) there.

I unfortunately live very, very, very, far away from Dallas. I'm still waiting for the Stars to play a road game against the Caps so I can watch them whoop some butt in person. The last hockey game I went to was a Penguins game a long time ago, unfortunately I wasn't old enough to appreciate getting to see Super Mario play during his prime.

That just reminded me of a question, who would you say are your favorite players of all time are?

Mine are Mario Lemeiux, Jere Lehtinen, Sergei Zubov, Mike Modano, Ed Belfour, Marty Turco, (he bent back and winked into the Southwest Airlines Goal cam, name one goalie cooler) Brian Leetch, Bobby Orr (A defenseman that led the league in goals, what's not to love) and the Great One.

[PlatinumG]

Hmm...my favourite players of all time?

Mike Modano, Sergei Zubov, Jere Lehtinen, Esa Tikkanen, Ed Belfour, Marty Turco, Wayne Gretzky (though that really goes without saying ;)), Jyrki Lumme, and Clint Bennedict (first to wear a goalie mask in the NHL)

There are a few more, most of them Finns:D, but I didn't want to bore you all with a long list.

I know how you feel about living out of Dallas, Serge...I live in Phoenix. I don't even have a decent team to watch, except for the two times Dallas comes to Phoenix, then I'm working overtime to buy tickets...I never miss their games.

-PG

Edit: Looks like Bacashihua won't be #2 next year:

From the Dallas Stars Website
Stars GM Doug Armstrong has gone on record in saying that the club needed to make a commitment to developing young talent for the future. On Friday, Armstrong made a move to help solidify the Stars' youthful depth along the blue-line, acquiring defenseman Shawn Belle from the St. Louis Blues in exchange for goaltender Jason Bacashihua.

"Shawn Belle is a good two-way defenseman who will be a solid NHL player," Armstrong said. "We're excited to add a player with his type of skating ability to the organization. He's an excellent skater and has good size."

The 19 year-old Belle was St. Louis' first round selection (30th overall) in last year's draft. He won the Bobby Orr Fastest Skater Award at the 2003 CHL Top Prospects Skills Competition prior to the Draft last year.

"One of the reasons we were able to make this trade was the depth that we had at the goaltender position," Armstrong said. "Jason Bacashihua has a bright future ahead of him and we wish him the best. We had three top prospects in Jason, Dan Ellis and Mike Smith and we utilized that strength to add youthful depth among our defensive corps. Belle, Trevor Daley, John Erskine and Matt Nickerson give us a good base of young talent to build upon."

Belle played in 55 games for the Tri-City Americans of the Western Hockey League last season, scoring nine goals and 20 assists for 29 points with 68 penalty minutes and a +5 rating. Belle has appeared in 157 games with Tri-City over the last three seasons, scoring 17 goals and 51 assists for 68 points with 196 penalty minutes.

The 6-2, 225-pound Belle has played for Team Canada in each of the past three years at different levels - winning the silver medal this past Spring at the 2004 World Junior Championships, collecting two gold medals with Canada's Under-18 squad in 2002-03 (one at the 2003 IIHF World Under-18 Championships in Russia and a second at the 2002 Eight Nations Cup in Slovakia where he was named top defenseman), and winning a silver medal with Team Pacific at the 2002 World Under-17 Challenge. For the second consecutive year, he has been invited to Canada's National Junior Team Development Camp this August in Calgary along with the Stars' 2003 third round pick, right wing B.J. Crombeen.

"Shawn has been able to represent his country on several different occasions and has shined every time," Armstrong said. "He has a lot of experience at a young age and he's only going to get better."

Belle seemed as pleased as Armstrong that the young defenseman was now a Dallas Star.

"I'm definitely happy about the trade," Belle said. "You always see Dallas at the top of the pack every year and I'm excited to become part of the organization."

A true two-way defenseman, Belle works every day to improve his game on both ends of the ice.

"I take pride in playing well both on offense and defense. In Tri-City, our coach stressed defense first so I did my best for him," Belle said. "I'm always working on my game and trying to become better every day."

And Belle seems to have the tools to become very good. At last year's draft, St. Louis' Director of Scouting Jarmo Kekalainen told Larry Wigge of StLouisBlues.com, "(Belle) is the best athlete I have EVER seen, and that covers a lot of great NHL stars. I would guess that he could be good at any sport he tried. He's just rock solid and has that quick-twitch muscle reaction that even a lot of the really good players don't have."

The 21 year-old Bacashihua was the odd man out in Dallas' deep pool of goalies. Mike Smith and Dan Ellis have made considerable strides in their development over the past year, giving Armstrong some quality assets to make a deal like this and still keep quality young talent between the pipes for the Stars' future.

Bacashihua was the Stars' first round selection (26th overall) in the 2001 NHL Entry Draft. He appeared in 39 games with Utah (AHL) last season, earning a 13-19-5 record with a 2.66 goals against-average and a .916 save percentage.

Next up for the Stars is the 2004 NHL Entry Draft this weekend in Raleigh, NC, with the first round on Saturday being televised on ESPN2 (11 AM, CST). Dallas owns the 20th overall pick in the first round, as well as three of the first 56 selections (Stars own overall picks 34 and 56 in round two)

That's a shame...Bacashihua was a good goalie, looks like it's down to Smith and Ellis.

[Red Fire]

Favorite players, eh?, that's a question I thought about for a while, then I remembered who they are: Joe Thorton, Iginla, Chara, Luongo, Brian Leetch, Joe Niewndyck, Gary Roberts, Gordie Howe, Wayne Gretzey, Ilya Kolvuchuk, Joe Sakic, Markus Nasland, Vincent Lecaviler, David Andruychuck, and Nash.
I know that may not be the proper spelling of their names, but I am too lazy to go look the names up right now. I also realize that all my guys are spread-out on different teams, weird isn't it.
I also spent a good part of yesturday making up a team from all the NHL players with my friend on NHL 2004. I would like to see your "perfect team" put together by you guys, note you can't put yourself on that team. I want there to be rules too:
1. 12 forwards
2. 8 defences
3. 3 goalies (star goalie)
4. Coach and Ass. Coach
I will tell you mine after you post yours

[PlatinumG]

Originally posted by Red Fire
I would like to see your "perfect team" put together by you guys, note you can't put yourself on that team. I want there to be rules too:
1. 12 forwards
2. 8 defences
3. 3 goalies (star goalie)
4. Coach and Ass. Coach
I will tell you mine after you post yours

Perfect Team:

Line 1: Lehtinen - Modano - Morrow (I know he's an LW by trade, but he works well on this line)

Line 2: Kovalchuck - Sakic - Heatly

Line 3: Ott - N. Kapanen - S. Kapanen

Line 4: Simon - Yelle - Iginla

D1: Sydor - Zubov (Best combo of all time!)

D2: Boucher - Daley

D3: Commodore - Leopold

Goalie: Marty Turco

Backup 1: Kari Lehtonen

Backup 2: Dan Ellis

Head Coach: Ken Hitchcock

Assitant: Dave Tippet

(I used 6 D, as that's how it works in a game situation...)

-PG

[Serge]

Dude I love NHL 2004, 'cept for a couple of idiotic flaws in the organazation of the game, like not having an IR list.

I'll have to agree with PG on most of this stuff...

1st Line: Morrow Modano Lehtinen

2nd Line: Nash K.Primeau Jagr (All powerful forwards)

3rd Line: Draper Turgeon Young

4th Line: Whitney N. Kapanen Malhotra



1st Pair: Sydor & Zubov

2nd Pair: Redden & Leetch

3rd Pair: Sweeney & Witt

Goalie: Marty Turco (There's no one better)

Backup: Robert Esche

3rd Goalie: Maxim Quolette (I have no clue how to spell it, he plays for the Caps)


Coach: Ken Hitchcock (Yeah, he's good)

Assistant: Butch Cassidy (He shouldn't have been fired)

I also didnt' want to bother with extra D, and my team was thought up pretty quick, meh, here it is.

[PlatinumG]

Originally posted by Serge
Dude I love NHL 2004, 'cept for a couple of idiotic flaws in the organazation of the game, like not having an IR list.

2nd Line: Nash K.Primeau Jagr (All powerful forwards)

4th Line: Whitney N. Kapanen Malhotra

2nd Pair: Redden & Leetch

3rd Pair: Sweeney & Witt.

Those are great lines! Never thought about those, but they're deffinately great lines.

I have to agree with you about the idiotic (though few) flaws in NHL 2004. The one thing that really got to me was that they didn't include the farm teams. Sure, it was nice having the European Elite leagues, but if you're going to send players to the minors in Dynasty Mode, wouldn't it make sense to actually have the minor league teams in the game. I'd like to see that in next year's game, ie: Have a Dynasty mode where you could elect to play with both the main and farm team(s) throughout a season, or just the main team, or just the farm team. That would be great!

-PG

[Serge]

As for my Defensive pairs, whenever I do a fantasy draft I always make it a top priority to get Leetch and Redden, I don't know why, but I like 'em.

[PlatinumG]

I'll deffinately have to take a close look at their stats now, it could work out to be a good defensive pairing!

While we're talking about NHL 2004, have you created any legends or any of your favourite bands' members? Myself, I've created Gretzky, Tikkanen, and several of my favourite bands' members (most of them Finnish metal bands [Niilo Sevanen - Insomnium; Pasi Rantanen - Thunderstone; etc.]). I think it's fun, but they need more customization options, especially with the goalies (ie: Mask designs...).

-PG

[Serge]

Yeah, I am still waiting for them to put the goalie's actual design's on their masks. (i.e. Turco's gargoyle, Kolzig's godzilla) I wish they would make the Create-a-team options more like the ones in Madden 2004. The only player I have ever created was me.

[PlatinumG]

I've also been waiting for the actual mask designs...seeing two maple leafs in place of Eddie's eagles was a little disappointing, but the improv Trevor Kidd mask was pretty cool! I didn't like Turco's mask at all, Kolzig's was a joke. Next year isn't shaping up very well either, mask-wise (from the screenshots I've seen). But at least we should see a few strides in the equipment area...

-PG

[Red Fire]

Serge this is directed to you, I don't know if I missed the NHL drafts, when were they?, also I just got an e-mail from leafs insider here is what they said:
(June 26, 2004) -- The first draft pick of the John Ferguson era is goaltender Justin Pogge from Prince George of the Western Hockey League. The native of Ft. McMurray, Albert posted three shutouts, a 2.83 goals-against average and a winning record (17-18-2) in 44 appearances last season.

[Serge]

I think the draft was earlier today. I was right, the Caps took Ovekchin.

[Red Fire]

I was listening to the news and they said that if the Caps got him it could mean a big comeback for them this year. I don't know if that's true but it's on the right path

[PlatinumG]

I find it impressive that Washington managed to get 4 picks within the top 35. That's pretty good! It was also strange to see Dallas trade down twice to pick someone who would most likely still have been available in the 2nd round. But then again, it's better to get the players you want, than to gamble on players you don't know.

Most Surprising pick: Phoenix's #1 pick...B. Wheeler, not even out of H.S. yet. Don't understand the logic in that, but good for him getting drafted this early!

I hope the televise the rest of the draft tomorrow...I only got to watch the 1st round.

-PG

[Red Fire]

2 things:
1. here is the roster fro the Finland World Cup team:
Player Birthdate Place of Birth 2003-04 Team
Goaltenders
Lehtonen, Kari 11/16/1983 Helsinki, Finland Atlanta Thrashers
Kiprusoff, Miikka 10/26/1976 Turku, Finland Calgary Flames
Toskala, Vesa 5/20/1977 Tampere, Finland San Jose Sharks
Defence
Pitkänen, Joni 9/19/1983 Oulu, Finland Philadelphia Flyers
Timonen, Kimmo 3/18/1975 Kuopio, Finland Nashville Predators
Väänänen, Ossi 8/18/1980 Vantaa, Finland Colorado Avalanche
Salo, Sami 9/2/1974 Turku, Finland Vancouver Canucks
Berg, Aki-Petteri 7/28/1977 Turku, Finland Toronto Maple Leafs
Numminen, Teppo 7/3/1968 Tampere, Finland Dallas Stars
Lydman, Toni 9/25/1977 Lahti, Finland Calgary Flames
Forwards
Selänne, Teemu 7/3/1970 Helsinki, Finland Colorado Avalanche
Nieminen, Ville 4/6/1977 Tampere, Finland Calgary Flames
Koivu, Saku 11/23/1974 Turku, Finland Montreal Canadiens
Jokinen, Olli 12/5/1978 Kuopio, Finland Florida Panthers Miami
Ruutu, Tuomo 2/16/1983 Vantaa, Finland Chicago Blackhawks
Peltonen, Ville 5/24/1973 Vantaa, Finland HC Lugano - SUI
Eloranta, Mikko 8/24/1972 Turku, Finland TPS Turku - FIN
Laaksonen, Antti 10/3/1973 Tammela, Finland Minnesota Wild
Kapanen, Sami 6/14/1973 Vantae, Finland Philadelphia Flyers
Hentunen, Jukka 5/3/1974 Joroinen, Finland HC Fribourg-Gotteron - SUI
Lehtinen, Jere 6/24/1973 Espoo, Finland Dallas Stars
Hahl, Riku 11/1/1980 Hameenlinna, Finland Colorado Avalanche
Ruutu, Jarkko 8/23/1975 Helsinki, Finland Vancouver Canucks
Kapanen, Niko 4/29/1978 Hattula, Finland Dallas Stars
Pirnes, Esa 4/1/1977 Oulu, Finland Los Angeles Kings
2. Here is my team that I created:
Forward- Kolvalchuk Thorton Iginla
Carter Lecaviler Smyth
Amonte Gagne Conroy
Hossa Newindyck Lindros
Defence- Chara Leetch
Redden Gelinas
McCabe Gonchar
Goalies-1. Luongo
2. Brodeur
3. Belfour

[madd dog36]

I love montreal.....Even though they got crushed against Tampa(who cares thay are the stanley cup champions) and plus i am from montreal!!!!!!!!!!!

[PlatinumG]

Originally posted by Red Fire
2. Here is my team that I created:
Forward- Kolvalchuk Thorton Iginla
Carter Lecaviler Smyth
Amonte Gagne Conroy
Hossa Newindyck Lindros
Defence- Chara Leetch
Redden Gelinas
McCabe Gonchar
Goalies-1. Luongo
2. Brodeur
3. Belfour

You picked Thornton over MikeyMo? :eek:

Just kidding, it looks like a solid lineup, only I wouldn't choose someone like Lindros, even for fourth line duties, and I doubt Chara would be worthy of 1st line over the likes of Redden...but that's your decision after all ;). I like your goalies though, pretty solid there.

I like the look of Finland's lineup, as I mentioned earlier. It'll be interesting if the two Kapanens will end up playing on the same line, there could be some chemistry there...the only think I don't like is the fact that they didn't pick Miettinen, he's a solid player.

-PG

[Red Fire]

Well I guess we will just have to wait and see. It would be cool for the two kaps to be playing on the same line, I agree with u there. Also, I think the two teams that will end up playing against each other in the end will be Canada and USA. Finland and Russia will battle for 3rd and 4th place. But then again, Finland may pull ahead and battle for the 1st place, we will just have to wait and hope that Canada will win!:D

[PlatinumG]

Originally posted by Red Fire
Well I guess we will just have to wait and see. It would be cool for the two kaps to be playing on the same line, I agree with u there. Also, I think the two teams that will end up playing against each other in the end will be Canada and USA. Finland and Russia will battle for 3rd and 4th place. But then again, Finland may pull ahead and battle for the 1st place, we will just have to wait and hope that Canada will win!:D

I have to disagree with you there. I think the final will be Canada -v- Finland and the Bronze medal match will be Russia -v- USA or Russia -v- Sweden. I think Canada has a good chance, given that they'll have MiniMo (Morrow) and Jarome Iginla with three solid goalies, but the US are depending too much on star talent (Jeremy Roenic, Mike Modano [though, he's really good :D], Tony Amonte, Keith Tkachuk, Chris Chelios, Derrian Hatcher, etc.) That'll be their downfall in the end, I think.

...but I'm still going to support Finland this time around :D

-PG

[Red Fire]

Well u are kinda right PG, USA is relieing on it's forwards but with the retirement of one of the best goalteders Team USA has ever had, they need some god offence. They did happen to get lucky this year. NY Islanders goalie Dipietro is a very good goaltender. He does have to fill really big shoes though. Mike Richter was one of the best goalies and when it'll come down to the nets, I think Dipietro is ready and willing to make a few great saves.

[PlatinumG]

You might have a point there. Dipietro is a solid goaltender, the only question is -- can he be the #1 goalie that the US needs in order to get through to the medal rounds? It'll be interesting to see who'll be the #1 though, Esche or Dipietro. Both have skill, but neither one have taken the #1 spot on Team USA before. I really have to doubt USA's chances this year, which is why my support is leaning towards Finland and/or Canada this year (most likely Finland, because I really like the look of their lineup).

It'll still be a very interesting World Cup.

-PG

[Red Fire]

Hey PG and Serge, I was watching The Score (Canadian version of ESPN), and they said that Hasek was being signed to Ottawa on July 1st, 2004. I was thinking that with that great of a goaltender and if they keep the same lines, they have a chance at winning the Stanley Cup, after all, a lot of sports stations picked them to win it this year, but some of the games were losted due to terrible goaltending by Lalime. Whjat are your two thoughts on this event?

[PlatinumG]

Originally posted by Red Fire
Hey PG and Serge, I was watching The Score (Canadian version of ESPN), and they said that Hasek was being signed to Ottawa on July 1st, 2004. I was thinking that with that great of a goaltender and if they keep the same lines, they have a chance at winning the Stanley Cup, after all, a lot of sports stations picked them to win it this year, but some of the games were losted due to terrible goaltending by Lalime. Whjat are your two thoughts on this event?

I don't understand why Ottawa are so interested in Hasek. He played VERY little last season, and even then he wasn't at his usual level of play. I think this year will just be a repeat of that if he does get signed by Ottawa. They should be looking towards Dallas if they want an elder, available goaltender. They're absolutely dying to get rid of Tugnutt, and he's got a history in Ottawa ;)

Ok, so maybe Tugnutt isn't the guy they're looking for, but I have my doubts that Hasek will turn out much better.

-PG

[Red Fire]

Ture but if Hasek performs better, and then they have lalime as their back-up, that is solid goaltending right there

[PlatinumG]

Originally posted by Red Fire
Ture but if Hasek performs better, and then they have lalime as their back-up, that is solid goaltending right there

Lalime was traded to St. Louis yesterday ;)

They'd only have Hasek and Prusek to keep them alive...

-PG

[Red Fire]

seriously?, I should really pay more attention to that. sry, my mistake, oh well. Ottawa is doomed for another year:D

[PlatinumG]

You never know. From what I saw of Prusek these past couple of season, he's got the ability to be a solid goaltender...he just needs to play a bit more than he did.

If I were in Ottawa's shoes, I'd be looking to pick up someone the likes of Vesa Toskela or Martin Gerber to make sure there were three goalies available (assuming Ottawa do indeed sign Hasek), just incase Hasek and/or Pursek were to fall apart.

-PG

[madd dog36]

Originally posted by Red Fire
seriously?, I should really pay more attention to that. sry, my mistake, oh well. Ottawa is doomed for another year:D
I dont know about that because there goalie is great. If they can fix up the offence i think they can do pretty good this year



Is it for sure that their will be a this year?

[Red Fire]

It is not for sure that there will be a next year. The NHl has no control over a strike and if it happens then next year will either be shorter or there will be no next year.
I would also like to hear your comments on what the GM's may do to some of the rules of hockey:
1. Goalies won't be able to play the puck unless it is passed the iceing line
2. They may shorten the width of goalie's pads
3. They may change the number of games played in the regular season
4. They may change the point system.
I am against #s 3, 4. The first two are just talking about how little goals are scored which isn't acurate. After the GM's meat, Bufflo had 21 goals in 3 games, that's an average of 7 goals a game. If that's not enmought then I don't know what to say, go watch football

[PlatinumG]

Madd Dog, they (Ottawa) don't have a solid goaltender yet. Patrick Lalime (last year's goaltender) was traded, that's why the "They're doomed..." comment was mentioned ;)

Originally posted by Red Fire
It is not for sure that there will be a next year. The NHl has no control over a strike and if it happens then next year will either be shorter or there will be no next year.
I would also like to hear your comments on what the GM's may do to some of the rules of hockey:
1. Goalies won't be able to play the puck unless it is passed the iceing line
2. They may shorten the width of goalie's pads
3. They may change the number of games played in the regular season
4. They may change the point system.
I am against #s 3, 4. The first two are just talking about how little goals are scored which isn't acurate. After the GM's meat, Bufflo had 21 goals in 3 games, that's an average of 7 goals a game. If that's not enmought then I don't know what to say, go watch football

1.) That's wrong. It really hurts the goaltenders like Turco and Broduer who have the ability to play the puck. They should leave the goalies alone, though they should institute a rule that allows goalies to be checked if they wander too far out...they shouldn't be given free roam as they are now.

2.) That'll hurt in the long run. Goalies pads are designed with their safety in mind. The length they are now helps to protect against possible knee injuries when they go down into the butterfly. If they shorten the pads, their knees will be exposed meaning they could risk injury or be forced to play the stand-up game.

3.) Bad idea. The season is perfect the way it is. It's been this way for years, what would be the point of changing it now? The only thing left after that would be to shorten the game from 3 periods to 2...(yes, that was sarchasm...I don't think they should ever consider doing that.) Leave it at 82 games, it works out better when there's a hot positional battle going on. For instance, Dallas and San Jose last season. Dallas caught up to them in the home stretch of the season, and it was entertaining to see how much closer they got, until finally they put Tugnutt in goal, and the whole team balance went to crap. That's not the point though, the point is that having the season at the length it is now is the length it was designed to be, it's how Bobby Orr played the game, it's how Gordie Howe played the game, it's how Tony and Phil Esposito played the game. It should stay as it is now.

4.) Interesting idea. It'd give more incentive for teams to play for the win instead of go for the tie, but at the same time, it's still detracting from the game as it is now. Leave things to the way the legends played it. It is just a game, and to think of it too politically as to change some of the major rules of hockey is beyond wrong. I'm sure if you were to ask the real players (the ones that play for the love of the game, not the love of the money), they'd agree.

-PG

[madd dog36]

[QUOTE]Originally posted by PlatinumG
[B]Madd Dog, they (Ottawa) don't have a solid goaltender yet. Patrick Lalime (last year's goaltender) was traded, that's why the "They're doomed..." comment was mentioned ;)


But i thought hasek was the goalie... And prusek is not bad... Well I didnt say they would be the best team ... But i dont think they'll be the worst either

[Serge]

Originally posted by Red Fire
It is not for sure that there will be a next year. The NHl has no control over a strike and if it happens then next year will either be shorter or there will be no next year.
I would also like to hear your comments on what the GM's may do to some of the rules of hockey:
1. Goalies won't be able to play the puck unless it is passed the iceing line
2. They may shorten the width of goalie's pads
3. They may change the number of games played in the regular season
4. They may change the point system.
I am against #s 3, 4. The first two are just talking about how little goals are scored which isn't acurate. After the GM's meat, Bufflo had 21 goals in 3 games, that's an average of 7 goals a game. If that's not enmought then I don't know what to say, go watch football

1. Basically, what PG said. Why the NHL would impose a rule that would hurt the guy they gave the Vezina the last two years in a row, is beyond me.

2. Again, PG hit the nail on the head. In addition, I wouldn't want to see more goals scored. Hockey is already a higher scoring sport than Soccer, why do we need more scoring? I like to see the goalies work their butts off and get the shutout.

3. That would mess up too much, like the most goals in a season records, and all the other seasonal stat records. (I'm still waiting for another Gretzky/Lemieux to come along and break some records)

4. I don't see the upsides or downsides to this one really, so I guess "if it's not broke, don't fix it,"

[PlatinumG]

Originally posted by madd dog36
But i thought hasek was the goalie... And prusek is not bad... Well I didnt say they would be the best team ... But i dont think they'll be the worst either

Hasek hasn't been signed yet, so the only goalie they've actually got in their lineup at this point is Prusek, and he's got very little experience as a starter for the Sens.

Originally posted by Serge
(I'm still waiting for another Gretzky/Lemieux to come along and break some records)

As is just about everyone :) My personal thoughts are that Antti Miettinen has the potential, and if next year's most likely #1 pick (Crosby?) is as good as scouts are saying he is, then he could also be one to break a record or two in his career.

Of course, if they change the rules to what they're proposing now, it'll all be basically nullified.

-PG

[Red Fire]

hey guys, Toronto Re-signed Belfour and Roberts, Berg, and lastly Newinydyck. I think they finally came to their senses:D

[PlatinumG]

Yeah, I read about that Yesterday. I also just noticed the Free Agents list, and Stevie Y is listed. Interesting. I don't doubt that Detroit will re-sign him, but it's still interesting all the same.

-PG

[Red Fire]

I don't know, Detroit may not sign him b/c they now want young speedy players. They were no match for the quickness of Iginla and they were almost put away with the Nashville speedsters. Even though CuJo isn't my fav player, he did very well last playoffs and I think detroit will keep him (I know he isn't on the Free agents list but they could trade him).

[PlatinumG]

Good points there. They are looking more towards the younger players nowadays, but I still think they'll hold on to him because he's their captain, and he's been with the team since '87-'88.

Just found out -- Paul Kariya and Teemu Selanne are the newest addition to the Unrestricted Free Agents list. Very interesting to see them go, but then again, they both had below average seasons. I think Anaheim might look to move on Kariya again, and Selanne might also see something from it.

-PG

[Red Fire]

well yes, but I think that Colorado may wnat them, just to say they have them, b/c they were viuable to them. I also agree that they both had a terrible year of hockey. Hey Serge, u got nothing to say?

[PlatinumG]

I don't think Colorado are all that interested in keeping either of them simply based on last years performance, and Kariya's proneness to injury (Ankle injury earlier last season, knock-out check in the Stanley Cup finals the year before, several concussions...). I've heard several rumors of him wanting to go back to Anaheim, and Selanne might just follow him back there, though recently he's become more accomodated to the money aspect of the game, rather than his old hockey love.

Interesting note of the moment: Matthew Barnaby signed a contract with Chicago today. That's an interesting move for him, considering he could have done a lot better for himself. Either way, it was a 3 year deal for him and Curtis Brown. Should make next year very interesting.

-PG

[T3km4n]

Stop talking about hockey.

http://www.ebaumsworld.com/forumfun/whocares2.jpg

P.S. just kidding
:D

[PlatinumG]

Originally posted by T3km4n
Stop talking about hockey.

http://www.ebaumsworld.com/forumfun/whocares2.jpg

P.S. just kidding
:D

Stop talking about hockey?!? :eek:


Never! :p

-PG

Edit: (This is directed more at the actual participants of the thread, not the naysayers and jokers) Just so this doesn't go completely off topic -- I just found got some interesting news (litterally just now)

SUNRISE, Florida (Ticker) - The Florida Panthers added
goaltending depth Friday, signing veteran free agent Jamie
McLennan to a two-year contract with a club option for the
2006-07 season.



Financial terms were not disclosed.



A former Masterton Trophy winner, McLennan split last season
between the Calgary Flames and New York Rangers, going 13-12-3
with four shutouts and a 2.31 goals-against in 30 games.



With the Panthers, he will back up Vezina Trophy finalist
Roberto Luongo, who played 72 games last season.



McLennan also has played for the New York Islanders, St. Louis
Blues and Minnesota Wild during a nine-year career.

[Serge]

Hockey conversation will never die! This is the greatest thread in all of TAO! Long live the HD Thread!

Yeah, I can't wait to see if there are any interesting Free Agent signings this year. It's also sad to see Selanne to care more about the money (it's also sad that his first season was his best).

I just can't wait to see Dallas play again...

[PlatinumG]

Originally posted by Serge
Hockey conversation will never die! This is the greatest thread in all of TAO! Long live the HD Thread!

Indeed! Long live the HD Thread! [*Insert "Headbanger" Smiley here*]

Yeah, I can't wait to see if there are any interesting Free Agent signings this year. It's also sad to see Selanne to care more about the money (it's also sad that his first season was his best).

That is pretty sad. But then again, he did have 75 goals that season. That's just a testament to show that he's got the potential to do it, if he'd quit focusing on the money.

Interesting Free Agent Signings: M.Barnaby and C.Brown signed three year deals with Chicago, as I mentioned before. I think it'll be quite hard to top that this off season, even with Lindros, Zhitnik, Kariya, Selanne, Deadmarsh, etc. on the free agents list. Signing with Chicago most likely wasn't in their minds when they went onto the free agency market. Though, they claim to be happy about it.

I just can't wait to see Dallas play again...

You and me both :D It'll be interesting to see how they work Jaroslav Svoboda, Antti Miettinen, Niko Kapanen, and Mattias Tjarnqvist into the lineup this year. I'm sure Svoboda will be expecting to play the greater part of the season this year, so that could be bad news for one of the 'future stars' that would've gotten the spot (Tjarnqvist, Miettinen, maybe even Kapanen).

Next year has the potential to be a very good year for the Stars.

-PG

[madd dog36]

The stars are always a great team. But they always get unlucky during the season...

[*The Nothing*]

Hockey=Greatness.

Nuff said.









Colorado Avalanche ROCKS!!!!!

[madd dog36]

Colorado I'd say is one of the greatest teams...but remember some of their star players came from a canadian team.. Quebec Nordiques, w00t to all canadian taoers

[*The Nothing*]

Shut up canadian!


No Offense DR.

[PlatinumG]

...most of today's great hockey players come from Europe, not Canada. Sure, there's Sakic, Lemieux, Belfour, and Brodeur; but they're more than equaled by Kovalchuk, Kipprusoff, Lehtonen, and Lehtinen. The Canadians might have made the game, but the Europeans have deffinately perfected it.

Just wanted to point that out...

-PG

[madd dog36]

no no no no no no no no no no.

Canadians are the greatest in hockey
Wayne gretzky
Sacik
kariya
many others

maybe europeans are the fastest players...

[Serge]

Okay, lets pretend Lemiux and Gretzky aside for a minute and focus on current player. Also note that it was a french coach that first purposely played forwards on the off-wing to allow them to open up their shots.

Canada-Great hockey nation. Awesome goalies, (Brodeur, Turco) good forwards (Sakic, Kariya, Iginla) and good defensman. (Rob Blake, some others, I'm drawing a blank.)

Czech Republic- Good hockey nation. Great forwards. (Jagr, Lang)

Finland- Good hockey nation. Great non-physical defensive oriented players. (Lehtinen, Numminen, Nieminen)

Russia- Great hockey nation. Great players all around. (Yzerman, Fedorov, Samsonov, [I draw another blank])

USA- Great hockey nation. Great physical forwards and defensmen, (Tkachuk, Roenick) and great shooters and skaters. (Modano, Leetch, Hull [even though he was born in Canada])

All in all, I say North America has the better players, but the NHL would be nothing without the Europeans and Russians.

[PlatinumG]

Originally posted by Serge
Okay, lets pretend Lemiux and Gretzky aside for a minute and focus on current player. Also note that it was a french coach that first purposely played forwards on the off-wing to allow them to open up their shots.

Canada-Great hockey nation. Awesome goalies, (Brodeur, Turco) good forwards (Sakic, Kariya, Iginla) and good defensman. (Rob Blake, some others, I'm drawing a blank.)

Czech Republic- Good hockey nation. Great forwards. (Jagr, Lang)

Finland- Good hockey nation. Great non-physical defensive oriented players. (Lehtinen, Numminen, Nieminen)

Russia- Great hockey nation. Great players all around. (Yzerman, Fedorov, Samsonov, [I draw another blank])

USA- Great hockey nation. Great physical forwards and defensmen, (Tkachuk, Roenick) and great shooters and skaters. (Modano, Leetch, Hull [even though he was born in Canada])

All in all, I say North America has the better players, but the NHL would be nothing without the Europeans and Russians.

How could you forget Zubov for the Russians :eek:

All joking aside, I'm going to have to agree and disagree with you. Yes, at this point in time, the N.Americans do have some of the better players in hockey, but also at this point in time are some of the best future stars. Ilya Kovalchuk (Rus.), Alexander Ovechkin (Rus), Evgeni Malkin (Rus), Marek Schwarz (Cze), Antti Miettinen (Fin), Niko Kapanen (Fin), Ville Nieminen (Fin), Danny Heatly (USA). Brendan Morrow (Can).

That list is only a select few of tomorrow's best players, but the vast majority of them are from Europe, which shows one of two things -- The Europeans are superior hockey players; or that N. American teams don't have courage enough in their "homegrown" players. North America does have some excellent players both now and in their future (Crosby, for instance, has been billed as the next Wayne Gretzky), but as it stands right now, Europe have quite a few outstanding players coming up. Take a look at the European elite leagues, there are several players that have the potential to be the next Federov, Fetisov, or Selanne.

Summary of all of this -- I wouldn't say either hemisphere has the upper hand at this point, but it'll deffinately be very interesting in the near future.

Interesting note of the moment -- The Stars roster has been updated at DallasStars.com, and players not mentioned include Bure, Matvichuk, Tugnutt, Corson, Svoboda, Numminen, Sloan, Olliver, Therien, and Young. It'd be a sad day if some of those players weren't re-signed...

-PG

[Red Fire]

Serge, u said Yzerman is Russian, he is Canadian!, and another thing, *the Nothing*, Canadians are great, please no flaming of any country in this thread, it is a peaceful hockey thread:D . Also the one who posted, "Stop talking about hockey", here is a website for u!

http://albinoblacksheep.com/flash/youare.php

Enjoy!

Edit: or this site http://www.albinoblacksheep.com/flash/sierranaked.jpg/

[madd dog36]

lol...that was funny,,, anyho how could you forget about koivu for finland!!!!! Maybe he is not the best players in the nhl but he's been through so much. He's had cancer. And hes still a great player. And I'd say he is one of the top 5 captains in the nhl. He has so much sportsmanship!

[Serge]

Meh, Steve Yzerman has Russian blood he just plays for Canada. I hope Dallas keeps Young, Numminen, Matvichuck and Bure. If they let Therien go it would allow for Dallas's younger defensman a chance to play, which would be good. I don't like Corson much as a player, and Tugnutt would be better off on another team.

[PlatinumG]

Originally posted by madd dog36
lol...that was funny,,, anyho how could you forget about koivu for finland!!!!! Maybe he is not the best players in the nhl but he's been through so much. He's had cancer. And hes still a great player. And I'd say he is one of the top 5 captains in the nhl. He has so much sportsmanship!

Koivu's decent, but he's well past his prime now. He's a strong competitor for all he's been through, and I hold a great deal of respect for him, but the facts still stand that he's past his prime in terms of playing ability/endurance.

Originally posted by Serge
Meh, Steve Yzerman has Russian blood he just plays for Canada. I hope Dallas keeps Young, Numminen, Matvichuck and Bure. If they let Therien go it would allow for Dallas's younger defensman a chance to play, which would be good. I don't like Corson much as a player, and Tugnutt would be better off on another team

I've never liked Tugnutt, he just hasn't been very good these past few years, and I knew from the minute Dallas signed him he'd be absolutely useless for the team. We just have to hope that the two youngsters(Smith and Ellis) can keep Dallas alive when Turco gets a night off.

I'd like to see Corson stay with the Stars. He's a good player when he wants to be, he just didn't get the chance to prove that much last season, given that he came in late and at a very bad time (they were just starting to rebuild, but still had a LONG way to go). I think he could prove to be a great asset to the team next season.

Bure's most likely not going to be re-signed. He costs too much money for Dallas to hold on to. Bure wanted to join a team that had a chance to win a cup, so the Panthers elected to trade him to Dallas with every intention to re-sign him as a free agent the following off-season. Now it's just a matter of time before Florida claim him back or someone else signs him. Though, this will give Niko and Antti the chance to get quite a bit more playing time this year.

Therien can go. I never liked him, he was terrible with the Flyers, and he just never clicked with the Stars. Erskine can play a better game than Therien, and he costs less money for the Stars to hold on to. As you stated, letting him go would allow for one of the youngsters (Erskine, Daley, or even Fistrick) to fill in and get some playing time this season.

-PG

[Red Fire]

Koivu is also on Montreal, he is playing his best b/c he is on a team that will allow him. It's like with the Nash deal that we discussed.
Furthermore I will not go to say anything about Dallas, but about Toronto. Toronto is the highest paying team in the NHL right now (as far as I've heard, u can prove me wrong if u like), they need some sloid defence. The 7-whatever lose to Philly was a repeat of the past in more than one way. The defence lacked in that game and Ed can't stop all the shots. Toronto played a key role for the drafts when they pick 2 defence (I think), and 1 'new' goalie. It will be interesting to see the signings'. I really hope they go after the key defenders. They got Leetch, that's a start but they need better.

[PlatinumG]

Personally, I'd say Toronto were pretty solid in the defence department (with Berg, Marchment, Leetch, McCabe, Klee, and Kabrele plus excellent talent in Berehowsky and Pilar), they just need to learn to work together. They're also lacking a little up front, in my opinion. They need to get rid of Tie Domi if they're going to go anywhere next season. I like Matt Stajan as a rookie, he's got great speed and soft hands, so they deffinately need to hold on to him. They've got more than enough players to cover for the loss of Domi (Francis, Nieuwendyk, Mogilny, Sundin, Roberts, and Stajan), and they'd save themselves some trouble with the PK unit with him gone.

I like Toronto as the team they are now, but with Domi gone, they could go all the way, as they wouldn't have to struggle on the PK, and they could spend more time working as a team, building chemistry and solidifying the team unit.

Of course, that's just my opinion.

[Serge]

Yeah. Domi = bad He causes to much trouble and racks up too many penalty minutes. Although he did call this one guy, who started this ridiculous Pay Per View event "Fights on Ice" with a bunch of ex-hockey players fighting in a torunament, a moron or something. So that's a good note on him.

[Red Fire]

I will have to disagree. Here in Canada we have a huge hockey fan named Don Cherry. Through-out the playoffs he was yelling at Pat Quinn to put Domi out on the Penalty killing (when he isn't in the penalty himself). Domi was very vaulable last playoff.
Another thing, even with Domi gone, they still have Tucker, and that young player who I forget the name of right now. They both have a lot of penalty minutes.
One more thing, Francis, (if I am hearing this right), has retired from the NHL. It's a same b/c that means he already played in his last official NHL game. He was one of the best players, and will be missed be all.

[PlatinumG]

There's one major difference between Domi and Tucker -- Tucker actually has creditable hockey skills. I'm well aware of Don Cherry and his outrageously ugly suits, and I've heard a lot of his commentary throughout the years, and I've disagreed with most of it. Domi wasn't very valuable to the PK last season because he spent too much time in the box himself, and when he got the chance to go on the PK, he didn't do much. If they dump him, they're not giving up too much.

I haven't seen anything about Francis retiring, but if he does, it'd be a real shame. He's been a great hockey player throughout his career, and he's still got at least one more season in him, I'd say. It'd be nice to see him play one more, but if it's his decision to retire, I hold enough respect for him to cheer him on to it.

-PG

[Red Fire]

hey guys, I know this happened last year, but what are ur thoughts on the car crash that killed the Atlanta Thrasher. I would also like to know if Dan Heatly was allowed to attend the funeral (b/c I didn't really know all that much, I didn't know if he was allowed).
BTW-I really don't have much to add, so I am going back to this. Why do u guys favour Finland to win the gold?, they have good players, but u have to look at the coaching too, and last I checked, Finland didn't have that great of coaches (in my opinion)

[PlatinumG]

Originally posted by Red Fire
hey guys, I know this happened last year, but what are ur thoughts on the car crash that killed the Atlanta Thrasher. I would also like to know if Dan Heatly was allowed to attend the funeral (b/c I didn't really know all that much, I didn't know if he was allowed).
BTW-I really don't have much to add, so I am going back to this. Why do u guys favour Finland to win the gold?, they have good players, but u have to look at the coaching too, and last I checked, Finland didn't have that great of coaches (in my opinion)

Dan Snyder (R.I.P.)

I think it was a terrible accident, and the fact that charges have been filed against Heatly is right in some ways, but wrong in a lot of other ways. Sure, he was wrong to drive while there was still alcohol in his system, and he was speeding, but he lost his best friend and respect from people around him. I think the charges should be dropped, but they are also very legit for the reasons mentioned above.

Honestly, it's a touchy subject...

As far as Finland goes, it's the mere fact that they've got such a sloid lineup that no matter who the coaches are, they should find a stride quite easily this year. What can I say? I'm a huge fan of Finland in any sport or event :D

-PG

[Red Fire]

Hey guys, I just heard 2 things:

1. Craig Conroy has signed with the LA Kings. I really think that sucks b/c he is a great player with a great future and he is going to be on one of the worst teams.

2.Toronto wants to get Glen Murray from Boston and they just might, b/c, a lot of good players are leaving Boston, Joe Thorton wants out of Boston, I hope Toronto gets him too:D

[PlatinumG]

Originally posted by Red Fire
Hey guys, I just heard 2 things:

1. Craig Conroy has signed with the LA Kings. I really think that sucks b/c he is a great player with a great future and he is going to be on one of the worst teams.

2.Toronto wants to get Glen Murray from Boston and they just might, b/c, a lot of good players are leaving Boston, Joe Thorton wants out of Boston, I hope Toronto gets him too:D

I'm not too sure about LA being one of the worst teams, they gave Dallas a run for their money throughout most of last season. They're a good team, they're just playing in a very hard division.

Toronto should not pick up Thornton. Thornton = $$$, and with the kinda' salary Toronto are looking at next year, Thornton just isn't the kind of player they should be picking up (nor Dallas, Detroit, or NYR for that matter).

Glen Murray would be a good pickup for Toronto, he's a solid player with a lot to offer. He'd fit in very nicely with the Maple Leafs' system, and he's still got a few seasons left in him (which already seperates him from the vast majority of the current leafs roster :D). It should make next season interesting, if they do indeed sign him.

-PG

[Red Fire]

He'd fit in very nicely with the Maple Leafs' system, and he's still got a few seasons left in him (which already seperates him from the vast majority of the current leafs roster ).

what do you mean by that, if you were to say that about Detroit, that's right, but Toronto has a lot of guys with more than just 2 seasons left in them.

[PlatinumG]

Originally posted by Red Fire
what do you mean by that, if you were to say that about Detroit, that's right, but Toronto has a lot of guys with more than just 2 seasons left in them.

I was just being facetious ;)

Toronto still has a decent lineup, age wise, but at the rate they're signing older players, they'll be the oldest team in the leage soon enough.

-PG

[Red Fire]

Well, u are kinda correct. It isn't that great of a move by the GM, but I guess he figured that when they got Joe (who is an old player), they could do the same with others and get more scoring.
The other thing is that Toronto has taken 6 captains from teams. That can work to their advantage, ad it can work against. Who do u guys think will be captain when Mats either gets traded, or retires?
Hey Serge, u haven't posted in a while, try to answer this question directed to Serge (Pg u can not answer this question):
Serge, did u like the Stars, when they were the Minnasota North Stars?

[PlatinumG]

Originally posted by Red Fire
Well, u are kinda correct. It isn't that great of a move by the GM, but I guess he figured that when they got Joe (who is an old player), they could do the same with others and get more scoring.
The other thing is that Toronto has taken 6 captains from teams. That can work to their advantage, ad it can work against. Who do u guys think will be captain when Mats either gets traded, or retires?

It'll either be Joe, Alexander Mogilny, or Gary Roberts. They're the most seasoned/experienced players on the Leafs, so it'd only make sence to promote one of them.

...I won't answer the second part :p

-PG

[madd dog36]

Those players are I show a great deal of respect for mogilny... I really think he is a great player

[PlatinumG]

Originally posted by madd dog36
Those players are I show a great deal of respect for mogilny... I really think he is a great player

Indeed he is. I think if the leafs could pick up Sergei Federov, Mogilny, Nieuwendyk and him could make an excellent line.

-PG

[Serge]

Ummm...I'm only fifteen. I didn't follow hockey, when they were the Minnesota North Stars. I started following them in 2000. I saw the '99 Stanely Cup series, but they weren't really my favorite team at the time.

[PlatinumG]

The North Stars were an awesome team during their last couple of season in Minnesota. They had all of the greats, Dino Ciccirelli, Neil Broten, and Mikey Mo. Mike's been on an uphill trend ever since his '90 season, but nothing will ever beat the team Dallas had from '97-'00 (the core players, that is). It's great to see that the Stars picked up Craig Ludwigs son in the draft this year. If he's anything like his dad, the Stars may well have a chance at a second cup in the near future.

-PG :)

[Red Fire]

Ummm...I'm only fifteen. I didn't follow hockey, when they were the Minnesota North Stars. I started following them in 2000. I saw the '99 Stanely Cup series, but they weren't really my favorite team at the time.

I am only 16 and yet I know them.... but anyways, that's not the point. How vaulable do u gys think the rookies will be next season judging by this passed season?

I myself beleive that Hockey isn't getting older, but younger and with each pasing year, the great sport gets even better. Hockey is full of sirprises, each year u never know what will heppen. Who knows, next year the vets' might be the ones who get it all and will leave the rookies in their tracks.

[Fallen & Forgot]

you need to get spellcheck. Anyways, the red-wings are really old and they're crowned the best team. I mean thy're reeeeeeeeeeaaaaaaaaaaaaalllllll old. not like over 70 though.

[Serge]

I know who the North Stars were now. I just wasn't a hockey fan before they moved to Dallas.

[PlatinumG]

Originally posted by Red Fire
How vaulable do u gys think the rookies will be next season judging by this passed season?

All I'm hoping for next year, is that there is a next year.

As far as how much the Rookies will affect the league, I'm looking to see if Alexander Ovechkin and Evgeni Malkin get ice time next season, as they're quite skilled players. I'd also like to see John Erskine getting some more ice time for Dallas. As one of the future stars of the Dallas roster, he'd better start eating up some ice time, or he won't be too effective at any age. Him and Steve Ott are the best youngsters Dallas have in their system at this point, along with Antti Miettinen, of course.

I don't know how much of a factor the vets will be in this upcoming season, but I have a feeling it'll turn out to be similar to this past season's top scorers, except that Mike Modano and Jere Lehtinen will be huge factors next year (as will Niko if he gets the playing time).

-PG

[madd dog36]

Is it true that they gave the teams their season scheduale?

[PlatinumG]

Originally posted by madd dog36
Is it true that they gave the teams their season scheduale?

I'm not sure I understand what you mean by this...

All teams show their schedules, they're publically available even.

Would you mind explaining a little as to what you meant?

-PG

[Serge]

I just hope that Dallas plays a game in the MCI Center this year...

*Goes off to check...*

[Red Fire]

Yeah, with Toronto and Detroit being rivals (well where I live they are considered to be), I would really like to see them play each other more than once, like this year. They won 5-2, but still, it should happen that each team plays each team 3 times, I know that's how it sorta works but no matter how many games in the season it takes. Make each team play each team 3 times!:D

[PlatinumG]

Originally posted by Serge
I just hope that Dallas plays a game in the MCI Center this year...

*Goes off to check...*

I doubt it'll happen if they make the schedule changes that were proposed. If it happens, the gist of it would be:

1.) Schedule shortened to 72 games
2.) Teams would play inter-division opponents 7-8 times per season.
3.) Teams would play inter-conference opponents 2-3 times per season.
4.) Teams would not play each other from a different conference. It would remain strictly east -v- east and west-v- west.
5.) The only time it would be east -v- west would be the All Star Game and the Stanley Cup finals.

If that happens, there won't be another Caps -v- Stars game for a LONG time.

-PG

[Red Fire]

That's crap. I hate it how some of the teams I like to watch are in different divisions. They never get to play each other in the playoffs unless both get to the finals. If they do that, next year will be terrible for hockey:mad:

[PlatinumG]

Originally posted by Red Fire
That's crap. I hate it how some of the teams I like to watch are in different divisions. They never get to play each other in the playoffs unless both get to the finals. If they do that, next year will be terrible for hockey:mad:

Yep, they're going right at the very structure of the NHL this year, which is wrong (as I mentioned earlier in the thread). They shouldn't make these changes for rivalry purposes, for entertainment purposes, and for longevity purposes. The NHL has stuck with its' current ruleset since the very early days, and now they just want to up an change it after all this time. It's sad how political this game is getting, bring on the WHA.

-PG

[Red Fire]

Well I'm sorry to say guys but it is official, I heard it from SportNet Ontario, Ron Francis has retired form the NHL. we should all have a moment of silence to remember Ron, one of hockey's greatest players, *sniff*.

God speed Ronnie!

[PlatinumG]

Hmm...are you sure it's official? I can't seem to find a press release anywhere about this. If it is official, it's a real shame to see such a great hockey player go, and yet he deserves everything that I'm sure will soon be coming his way in retired life (Hockey Hall of Fame? More than likely...)

In other news, I just heard some of the best and worst news of this off season so far. Richard Matvichuk, one of only two remaining Minnesota North Stars members, has been signed by the New Jersey Devils. This hurts the Stars in the fact that they loose a veteran defenseman (one of only 4 '99 members), and a dedicated player; but it also helps the Stars in gaining some extra cash to put back into the free agent market (est. $2.3 million USD), and it'll give the Stars the opportunity to play their rookies more.

Next season is going to be interesting. :D

Just an FYI -- Tomorrow (Wed.) the NHL will release next year's schedule. We'll get to see what (if any) changes have been made to the structure of the game, and if it'll still be integrated conferences (East -v- West teams)

-PG

[Speed Demon]

Hey i like the toronto maple leafs. Though they haven't won the cup in 35 years.

[Serge]

No East vs. West games...

Matvichuk isn't a Star...

Ron Francis retired...

[h()()t]

I do not see how you can like hockey so much. FOOTBALL.

[Serge]

*shoots h()()t*

You do realize that the NHL is older than the NFL, and that Lord's Stanely Cup is the oldest, biggest and best trophy in North America. It also has the name of every player who's ever won it on it. How cool is that? Cooler than some pansy-assed Vince Lombardi trophy...


*shoots h()()t*

[PlatinumG]

Serge, I believe this may be some good news for you:

Posted on DallasStars.com
Against Eastern Conference opponents, the Stars will play three of the 15 teams twice each (once at home and once on the road); those teams are Carolina, Tampa Bay and Washington. Dallas will face Boston, Buffalo, Florida, the New York Rangers, Philadelphia and Pittsburgh once at home and Atlanta, Montreal, New Jersey, the New York Islanders, Ottawa and Toronto once on the road.

There's some hope for you yet ;).

Oh, and to h()()t -- Unless by Football you're referring to soccer, then I shall ignore that comment...but since I'm assuming you mean the "tight-pants, slap each other on the ass as much as possible" game of football...I'm going to point, laugh out loud, and then go back to whatever it was that I was doing before...sound ok to you?

*Points, laughs out loud, goes back to whatever it was he was doing*

-PG

[Red Fire]

I will not comment on h()()t's post, it was a waste of space (crap that is a comment).
Anyways, very funny PG

I was really hoping that Toronto would play detroit at least 3 times, I only saw them playing them once (which really sucks b/c I was looking forward to their games). The last time they met, it wasn't even a work-out for Toronto 5-2, pathetic. I look forward to seeing who wins in the Toronto vs Dallas game.

[PlatinumG]

Originally posted by Red Fire
I will not comment on h()()t's post, it was a waste of space (crap that is a comment).
Anyways, very funny PG

I was really hoping that Toronto would play detroit at least 3 times, I only saw them playing them once (which really sucks b/c I was looking forward to their games). The last time they met, it wasn't even a work-out for Toronto 5-2, pathetic. I look forward to seeing who wins in the Toronto vs Dallas game.

According to MapleLeafs.com, Toronto and Detroit will be meeting three times this season ;)

I too will be looking forward to the Dallas -v- Toronto game, it should be interesting to see how much the lineup changes will affect each team in this year's meeting. I'm also especially looking forward to the Dallas -v- New Jersey game, and a chance to see Richard Matvichuk in the Red 'n Black, back with his '99 teammates Jamie Langenbrunner and Grant Marshall. These will be two of the best matches this season, I'd say.

-PG

[Serge]

Yeah, Dallas is coming to DC this year. *Dances around room*

I was reading about the new rules they're implementing on the AHL. If they like them in the AHL I hope they don't jump up to the NHL. Things like smaller pads for goalies, and shootouts during regular season...

[PlatinumG]

Originally posted by Serge
Yeah, Dallas is coming to DC this year. *Dances around room*

I was reading about the new rules they're implementing on the AHL. If they like them in the AHL I hope they don't jump up to the NHL. Things like smaller pads for goalies, and shootouts during regular season...

Is there a link or something that describes the new rules? I haven't heard too much about the AHL changes, so I'd like to read a little about them.

I agree though, if those are some of the changes made in the AHl, I certainly hope they don't migrate to the NHL.

-PG

[T3km4n]

You guys are STILL talking about hockey?

[PlatinumG]

Originally posted by T3km4n
You guys are STILL talking about hockey?

Yes.

Why's that so much of a shock to people? This is the Hockey Discussion thread, isn't it?

-PG

[Serge]

Originally posted by T3km4n
You guys are STILL talking about hockey?


Exactly how much of that glue did you sniff?

[Lil_Flip]

I play, right D, my favorite team is the Detroit Red Wings, but man.....tghey suck royally after they dumped the coach, well technically he dumped them but oh well. I wish they could get a coach who can help them.....its pathetic....they got knocked out the first round...

[PlatinumG]

Originally posted by Lil_Flip
I play, right D, my favorite team is the Detroit Red Wings, but man.....tghey suck royally after they dumped the coach, well technically he dumped them but oh well. I wish they could get a coach who can help them.....its pathetic....they got knocked out the first round...

...actually, the got knocked out in the second round :p

Dave Lewis is a fine coach, the Wings just have to get their heads out of each others' ass and listen to what the guy has to say. They've got too much 'star talent' for their own good (too many star players looking to show off, instead of using their talent within a system), they need to get rid of a few people before ever considering another cup run.

-PG

[PlatinumG]

...sorry for the double post, but here's some interesting news.

Former St. Lous Blues player Mike Danton pleads guilty to federal Murder-For-Hire conspiracy. (Read More (http://sports.espn.go.com/nhl/news/story?id=1841051))

-PG

[Red Fire]

I also have to agree, the Detorit coach was the Ass. Coach for Scotty Bowman. And if u didn't realize, they got knocked out by the cinderella story team (Calgary).
And wow, I thought that Danton was inisint (or however u spell it). And what do you guys think about the whole Dan Heatly being charged now? I think it is a shame. hasn't he gone through enough? Not only does he have to live with the greif, but he aslo has to play on the same team Dan Sinder was on. I guess it goes to show that no one is above the law. At least they saved his charges for a year, it gives him time to get over it (sorta). Poor Danny :(

[PlatinumG]

As mentioned earlier in the thread:

Originally posted by PlatinumG
I think it was a terrible accident, and the fact that charges have been filed against Heatly is right in some ways, but wrong in a lot of other ways. Sure, he was wrong to drive while there was still alcohol in his system, and he was speeding, but he lost his best friend and respect from people around him. I think the charges should be dropped, but they are also very legit for the reasons mentioned above.

Honestly, it's a touchy subject...

I still have similar thoughts on the subject, and I feel that at the very least he should be let off lightly (perhaps a small period of time in prison and a minimal fine...or even a slightly hefty fine and no jail time), no matter how it works out, it's a real shame how all of this is turning out.

-PG

[Red Fire]

Okay during the playoffs there were some games that I think should've had better refs. One of them was the St. Louis and San Jose game. A San Jose player was tripped and then the player who tripped him scored the next second. I would like to hear some games where u thought better refs should've been placed. I am not flaming refs, it is hard to ref a game being broadcast on National TV, there are just a few that need more training.

[PlatinumG]

Funny you should mention the refs and unfair calls. I read not too long ago that the former Director of Officiating (Andy Van Hellemond) took loans from refs in exchange for 'prime' ref assignments (loans reportedly ranged from $100 - $10,000). I think it's very valid to assume that the controversial decisions and the subsequent retiring of Van Hellemond is in some way linked, and did indeed affect the major portion of last season and the playoffs.

Most of the Dallas -v- Colorado 1st round series was very biased towards Colorado as far as the calls went, and I noticed that a lot of the calls in the Western conference finals seemed to be going against Calgary more than they were against San Jose. It's sad to think that all of this could be linked, and it's certainly very disgraceful.

Personally, I think Kerry Fraser was in someone's pocket (or being very persuasive in his requests [;)] when looking for ref assignments during last season), as he blew most of the games he officiated. I recall one major incident in Phoenix, where the Stars were in town and there were 9 calls made against Dallas before even 1 was made against Phoenix. Phoenix came out winning that game 5-4, but 4 of their goals came on the PP, which really says something about both Fraser and how the season swayed...

Refs are becoming a big problem in the NHL these days, and if dirty refs really are in the NHL, then it's about time they bring in a whole new lineup.

-PG

[PlatinumG]

Excusing the fact that this is the second double post of mine in this thread...

I bring news...

The WHA Amature and Free Agent drafts have just recently finished up, and the results can be found at the following links:

Amature Draft (Rounds 1-30) (http://www.worldhockeyassociation.net/news/amateur_draft/1-5.htm)
Free Agent Draft (Rounds 1-30) (http://www.worldhockeyassociation.net/news/free_agent_draft/1-5.htm)

Noteworthy Draft Picks

Amature Draft

1.) Sydney Crosby -- Would have had a promising NHL career starting with next years draft. It's unsure whether he will now play in the NHL. Drafted By: Toronto

12.) Andrew Ladd -- Drafted very early in this years NHL Rookie Draft. He never confirmed signing with the Hurricanes, may not play in the NHL. Drafted By: Dallas Americans

21.) Al Montoya -- Drafted in this years NHL Rookie Draft. He never signed with the Rangers, may not play in the NHL. Drafted By: Dallas Americans

46.) Rob Shcremp -- Drafted in this years NHL Rookie Draft. Never confirmed signing with team, may not play in the NHL. Drafted By: Toronto

56.) Christopher Borque -- Drafted in this years NHL Rookie Draft. Never confirmed signing with Washington, may not follow in fathers' NHL footsteps. Drafted By: Founders' unnamed franchise

66.) Martin Vagner -- Originally Drafted by Dallas in the 2002 Rookie Draft, never signed with Dallas and then drafted again by Carolina, never signed. May not play in NHL. Drafted By: Halifax

75.) Marek Schwarz -- Drafted as the first Goaltender overall in this years NHL Draft. Never confirmed signing with Habs. May not play in the NHL. Drafted By: Quebec Nordiks

102.) Niklas Grossman -- Drafted by the Dallas Stars in this years NHL Rookie Draft. Never officially confirmed signing with the Stars. May not play in NHL. Drafted by: Quebec Nordiks

103.) Shawn Belle -- Drafted by St. Louis originally, traded to the Dallas Stars in exchange for Jason Bacashihua. May not play in the NHL. Drafted By: Florida

141.) Loui Eriksson -- Drafted by Dallas Stars. Still considered a strong Stars' prospect. May still play in the NHL. Drafted By: Hamilton

Free Agent Draft

3.) Dany Heatley -- Known more as Atlanta's dominant prospect, Heatly was recently indicted on six (6) charges of Vehicular Homicide, in the accident that killed his long time friend and teammate Dan Snyder. Most likely will re-sign with Atlanta. Drafted By: Detroit

5.) Joe Thornton -- Boston's top center. Having contractual issues with Boston. May not Re-Sign. Drafted By: Toronto

6.) Todd Bertuzzi -- Vancouver's controversial forward. Recently indicted for his in-game actions against former Colorado Avalanche Steve Moore. May not be back in Vancouver. Drafted By: Founders' Unnamed Franchise

7.) Eric Lindros -- Formerly thought of as "The Next One," Lindros has had numerous concussion issues that have stinted his talent, and may soon cut his once-promising career short. Drafted By: Dallas Americans

10.) Scott Gomez -- New Jersey's hot-shot center. New Jersey General Manager has already declared that he will try to hang on to Gomez "at all costs." It is doubtful he will sign a WHA contract. Drafted By: Dallas Americans

12.) Ilya Kovalchuk -- Atlanta's top winger. One of Atlanta's best players at this point, Atlanta will most likely try to hang on to him. Drafted By: Toronto

20.) Theoren Fluery -- One of the most controversial 'short-men' in the game. Suspended numerous times for substance abuse, often ridiculed for his somewhat deminiative stature (5'6" 180lbs), most likely won't play in the NHL again. Drafted By: Hamilton

33.) Eric Messier -- Never known as a legendary player like Mark Messier, Eric Messier is/was on the way to a promising career with the Florida Panthers. Noteworthy stat: Eric Messier played part of the 1995 NHL season with the Montreal Roadrunners of the Roller Hockey league. Drafted By: Quebec Nordiks

35.) Steve Kariya -- Not as well known as brother Paul, Steve Kariya has been trying to make his way into the New Jersey Devils' roster after two less than successful seasons in Vancouver ('99-01). Drafted By: Detroit

37.) Jonathan Cheechoo -- San Jose's promising young star. San Jose are very fond of Cheechoo and probably will try to re-sign him. Drafted By: Toronto

39.) Blake Sloan -- Played with the Dallas Stars on two different occaisions, was aquired last season from Detroit (literally hours before he was scheduled to play for the Wings in his first NHL game of the season). The Stars are looking towards Sloan as a building block for the team, so they will try to sign him. Drafted By: Dallas Americans

...plenty more available by viewing the Free Agent Draft Results (http://www.worldhockeyassociation.net/news/free_agent_draft/1-5.htm)

-PG

[madd dog36]

Does anyone know if it for sure that the hovkey season will be on?

[Red Fire]

PG is that for NHL?

[PlatinumG]

Originally posted by Red Fire
PG is that for NHL?

No. Those are the draft results for the WHA.

Madd dog, there's no news as to whether or not there'll be a next year, but there was a meeting held yesterday that set out 6 potential plans to avoid a lockout, and none of them involve a salary cap (according to Bill Daly [NHL Executive Vice President and Chief Legal Officer]). That's very good news for the players/fans.

-PG

[madd dog36]

Oh thanks. I really want another hockey season. I really want to see what happens with all these interesting trades.

[PlatinumG]

Agreed. I would really like to see how Matvichuk fits in with the Devils, and how Svoboda fits in with the Stars, and also how Toronto works out with Ron Francis gone and Tie Domi gone (there's still time...he can still go...:p).

-PG

[Red Fire]

Not that anyone would care but check this out:

EDIT: here is the real site

http://nhlcbanews.com/news/meeting072104.html

[PlatinumG]

Indeed. That's the best place to get CBA information :)

So, anyone else think they'll actually settle this whole thing on August 4th, since they'll have had the chance to mull over all six concepts?

It'd be a nice surprise for fans and players alike if that happened.

-PG

[Red Fire]

HA, doubt it. I say it'll take them a good year to figure all this crap out. NHL and NHLPA have been fighting for years and I doubt 6 new changes will be settled in less than a month!

[PlatinumG]

Originally posted by Red Fire
HA, doubt it. I say it'll take them a good year to figure all this crap out. NHL and NHLPA have been fighting for years and I doubt 6 new changes will be settled in less than a month!

Stranger things have happened, you never know. I'd rather be optimistic about the situation at this point, because of the simple fact that none of those 6 proposed concepts involved paycuts, and yet they were all exceptionally outlined plans for the future. Though, I do have to look at the realistic side of things, since this has been going on for quite a while.

Either way, it'd still be a nice surprise to see the NHL start on schedule.

-PG

[Red Fire]

I love and hate when it is free agent signing time. I love it b/c temas gte new players and it make's NHL more interesting. I hte it b/c players I liked on one team move to another team I hate, like for example, Tom Fitzjerald just signed with the Boston Bruins, i hate them, this makes me really mad!:mad:

[PlatinumG]

Originally posted by Red Fire
I love and hate when it is free agent signing time. I love it b/c temas gte new players and it make's NHL more interesting. I hte it b/c players I liked on one team move to another team I hate, like for example, Tom Fitzjerald just signed with the Boston Bruins, i hate them, this makes me really mad!:mad:

Yeah, but as the saying goes: "C'est la vie"

I felt the same way when I heard Gavin Morgan signed with the Canadiens. He would have had a promising future with Dallas, but apparently money was slightly more important to him...

-PG

[Serge]

Bump. Also...


*Bows to PG's banner*

[PlatinumG]

Long time no see, nice to see ya' back around :)

Also, re: the banner -- I just decided to show my support for the upcoming election, since it'll shape the future for all mankind, so there needs to be a great leader in office! :D

-PG

[Serge]

Yeah, I had a two week vacation. Anyway, John Stewarts spoof biography film about John Kerry's life was great. Esp. the handful of interviews of people saying they're voting Kerry, because he's not George W.

[PlatinumG]

Originally posted by Serge
Yeah, I had a two week vacation. Anyway, John Stewarts spoof biography film about John Kerry's life was great. Esp. the handful of interviews of people saying they're voting Kerry, because he's not George W.

Yeah, that's quite a valid point these days, it would seem. Though, it'd be nice to see a little bit more factual evidence than past life in the armed services and people wanting someone other than Bush.

-PG

[Red Fire]

I was reading in the paper that Toronto GM went against what the NHl wanted to do. He re-signed Bryan McCabe worht $9 million. And plus he has a price limit of $60 million when the NHL is only allowing $30-$40 million.
It is a bold step for the GM and I hope he doesn't lose most of the leafs' b/c of that step.
I also read that the hopes of another NHL season are fading fast b/c the deal wasn't made on the 4th of August.
I also read that Belfour is now the owner of the Dallas Americans and may play net for them next seaon if ther is no NHL season next year.

[Serge]

Heh, I guess people would be kind of glad to have Eddie back in the big D. Anyways look at the most recent Free Agent signing, (Click Here (http://nhl.com/lineups/player/freesign04.html)) all I can say is "What the hell?"

[Red Fire]

Bret Hall?, in Phoneix? WTF!?, He should've gone to a better team

[Serge]

Here's the story on the signing in case you're interested.

From NHL.com

4:12 PM EDT, 08/06/2004
Hull signs two-year contract with Coyotes


GLENDALE, Ariz. (AP) - Brett Hull, third on the NHL's career goals list, signed a two-year contract with the Phoenix Coyotes on Friday.

Financial terms of the deal were not disclosed.

The free agent forward, an 18-year veteran who spent the last three seasons with Detroit, has 741 goals - second only to Coyotes managing partner Wayne Gretzky's 894 and Gordie Howe's 801. Hull, who turns 40 on Monday, has also scored 103 playoff goals, fourth behind Gretzky, Mark Messier and Jari Kurri.

"He is a dynamic player who creates excitement every time he enters the offensive zone," Coyotes general manager Michael Barnett said.

Bobby Hull Jr., the player's brother and agent, did not immediately respond to messages left at his office and on his cell phone.

Brett Hull, drafted by Calgary in the sixth round in 1984, has played for the Flames, St. Louis, Dallas and Detroit. He won Stanley Cups with the Stars (1999) and Red Wings (2002), scoring the cup-winning goal for Dallas in a triple-overtime Game 6 victory against Buffalo.

He has 649 assists and 1,390 points in 1,264 regular-season games, and 87 assists (190 points) in 202 playoff games.

Hull, a nine-time All-Star, won the Hart Trophy in 1991 and was the All-Star Game MVP in 1992.

He had his three best seasons in succession with St. Louis, with 72 goals and 113 points in 1989-90, career highs for goals (86) and points (131) in 1990-91 and 70 goals and 109 points the next year. Hull had a career-high 47 assists in 1992-93, when he had 101 points, his last season in triple digits.

He had 30, 37 and 25 goals the last three seasons with Detroit.

Actually, now that I read it, it doesn't say much...

[PlatinumG]

Hmm...well, it's a good thing and a bad thing for Dallas, and a good thing and a bad thing for me:D

Good for Dallas: Age / Salary reasons...Hull was old. Now they can pursue Bure and/or Corson for a new contract.

Bad for Dallas: Might have just lost the one thing that could have given MikeyMo a big jump for next season. Might also have sealed the deal for Mike to make the jump to play in Milan next year...

Good for me: I can watch Brett Hull night in and night out if I want :D

Bad for me: I can watch Brett Hull night in and night out if I want...

It was sort of obvious he'd go to Phoenix, given his relationship with Wayne Gretzky 'n all, but it would've been much better to have seen him play for a reputable team (though, the Coyotes have made some big signings of late [Ricci, Hull, singing Brent Johnson back for a second year, etc.]). This will deffinately make the upcoming season very interesting.

Going back to the Belfour situation: It'd be nice to see him back in Dallas, especially if he played for the team, but realistically; he just re-signed with toronto, it wouldn't be a very wise move to just up and leave them like that. If he did play, however, he could get the opportunity to play with/behind Eric Lindros...so I suppose there is a little bit of incentive for him, with Lindros being the former 'Next One' and all.

-PG

[Serge]

The Eagle has landed. Eddie will not fly this fall says Gretzky. (http://www.canada.com/sports/story.html?id=B6E943F3-71FB-471D-B7D7-F30BC699DCAB)

Don't worry Toronto fans, it's just for the World Cup, I think he'll be back for the NHL season.

[Red Fire]

Back problems my azz, he just wants to go down to Dallas to help his NEW team. I never did like Eddie... *grabs gun*

[Serge]

Bah! I say, bah! Eddie was the man, is the man, will always be the man. I just think his being on the roster was a joke anyways, they're going to play Brodeur if they want to win. I just wanted to see what everyone thought of it, I also doubt the severity of his back "problem."

[Red Fire]

Yes, Eddie is the man!, I was just kidding. And ur probably right, Brodeur will be in net the whole time, although, I wish they would give Luongo a chance, he did great for the Canadian Team during the playoffs (not sure what that was called), while brodeur was away still in the playoffs. Anyhow, I just hope Wayne doesn't have another tantrum like he did for the Olympics. :p

[PlatinumG]

Brodeur likely being in net the whole WCH is the main reason I don't think they'll go all the way this year. If they've got 3 decent goalies (which they do, obviously), they should use all 3, making sure that the next goalie in line is always fresh for the next game. Finland, on the other hand, will have a terrific chance, since they won't be too reliant on Kipprusoff given that they'll also have Toskela and Lehtonen rotating in and out, helping keep Kipper fresh for the important games, and giving Toskela and Lehtonen the experience they need during the not-so-important games.

Those are my thoughts, at least...

-PG

[Serge]

Yeah, but in most people's opinion Brodeur is immune to human weaknesses like fatigue. That's why Schwab plays like two games a season. However, if it increases USA's odds of winning the cup more power to him!

[PlatinumG]

No one, including Brodeur, is immune to human fatigue. In regards to Cory Schwab, I think he should spend some time in the minors to pick up playing time, whilst Ari Ahonen should move up to the NHL Backup level for a little while, so he can experience the NHL life (I think he'll be very good in years to come, so it's best to build him now...). Anyway, back to Canada. I'm going to have to keep with my previous prediction, that they won't get that far unless they rotate their goalies (and they're all top quality goalies...not to play them would be like picking up Turco and using him as the #2 behind the likes of Tie Conklin or someone similar), they won't get too far, and even if they do, they certainly won't go all the way just riding on the back of Brodeur.

-PG

[Red Fire]

I read somewhere that we shouldn't count the German team out of this, it says they have a great coach and could go far. Anyways, it should be a hell of a World Cup. GO CANADA!

[madd dog36]

Tonights hockey game is in montreal ya!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Go CANADA

[Serge]

I'm watching the USA vs. Canada game right now. All I have to say is Robert Esche is my hero! :cool:

[Office_Shredder]

Why didn't I know there was a hockey discussion thread until today? I am like... 1337 hockey man. But I hate watching it, I just like playing it... so I guess this doesn't really apply to me. *shrug*

[Red Fire]

I have to agree with Serge (even if he is the reason Toronto was out of the playoffs), but Dan Heatly is also a great player. I am not saying that just b/c he scored the first goal, but a couple years back when it was the East vs. West All-star game, Heatly scored the only goals for the East (5 goals). It is just a shame that he was the reason 1 of his teammates is no longer with us.....

[PlatinumG]

Oh, haven't been in this thread for a while :o

Looks like my prediction of Finland going the distance might just work out after all. They play Sweden in a little while, looking to keep their unbeaten, un-scored upon streak alive. All I have to say to that is: Go Finland!

Though, the Slovaks were looking impressive in their last game, regardless of the final score.

-PG

[zzzaacckk]

Canada is gonna win 4 sure...

[theburning]

Originally posted by zzzaacckk
Canada is gonna win 4 sure...

Hopefully!
Since it appears that we aren't capable of winning anything else. :(

[zzzaacckk]

ya we sucked in the olympics but in hockey i think we got this tourney...i hope...

[theburning]

I hate hockey!
So I don't really care if we do.

[Sub-Zero]

Same here!.... only thing that is worth watching about hockey to me is when they fight.:D

[T3km4n]

I don't like hockey either, Lacrosse is where it is at.

[Sub-Zero]

No, BasketBall!
Everyone knows what it is and how to play they just suck at it. :D
j/k anyways ya B-Ball Rocks.:D

[T3km4n]

Lacrosse is a sport you need more skill than strength or height, when in any other sport, you can easily learn it and you are the best if you are huge.

[Serge]

That's horse shit, tek. It seems I finally have a hitlist now though.

[add to hitlist] t3km4n, Sub-Zero[/add to hitlist]

[truffleshfl]

Lacrosse wasn't that hard to learn for me, but it does take a lot of skill, strength, and height like T3 said. Oh, and our season starts the 18th:D hopefully we come in first place again in all out tournys and the league.

[Serge]

No, tek was saying that it takes only skill to play lacrosse, and that in all other sports you just have to be the biggest to be the best, which is horse shit. Some of the best hockey players are small. (i.e. Martin St. Louis, Sergei Samsonov and Paul Kariya to name a few, I'm sure ol' PG could name more) Also, I'd like to kill the stupid stereotype that fat people make good goalies, that one stupid comercial always pisses me off.

[Jeffery]

Originally posted by T3km4n
Lacrosse is a sport you need more skill than strength or height, when in any other sport, you can easily learn it and you are the best if you are huge.

Hockey, baseball, soccer, most track and field, wrestling (real, not pro) and gymnastics. BTW, when was the last time someone had to larn how to run or walk in order to play Lacrosse? Hockey requires a completely different skill than the other sports.

Edit- People who think the sport they play is automatically harder and better then the rest are complete rubbish.

[PlatinumG]

Originally posted by Serge
No, tek was saying that it takes only skill to play lacrosse, and that in all other sports you just have to be the biggest to be the best, which is horse shit. Some of the best hockey players are small. (i.e. Martin St. Louis, Sergei Samsonov and Paul Kariya to name a few, I'm sure ol' PG could name more) Also, I'd like to kill the stupid stereotype that fat people make good goalies, that one stupid comercial always pisses me off.

True, most of the good players in the league are quite short. Going back a couple of years, Theoren Fluery (5'6") was known as one of the better players in hockey until a few substance abuse suspensions; but even at that, he was a small guy that could flat-out play. Looking towards the future, most of the better youngsters are shorter (Niko Kapanen [5'9"], Trevor Daley [5'9"], Christopher Borque [5'7"], Liam Reddox [5'9"], Kris Versteeg [5'9"], etc.) For them to be considered the 'future of hockey' at their height (when the average height draws closer to 6'2"+) is incredibly impressive.

The fat goalie stereotype will probably always be around, simply given the fact that they wear such thick padding when compared to the rest of the players. It annoys most true hockey fans, but I doubt it'll ever change, since stereotypes sell...It's a real shame.

-PG

[Speed Demon]

Cnada has to win this world cup. Like someone already said we sucked in the olympics.

[madd dog36]

Canada will win.,..because canada rules...im proud to be canadian!

[Serge]

I just watched the USA vs. Finland game. It was a good game, although I love Finland, I still wish USA would have won.

[PlatinumG]

I think we need a little bit more evidence than that, madd dog. :D

Anyway, back to hockey. As I said before, I think my prediction of the Fins going all the way may just be acurate. I see no reason why they can't beat the Canadian team after beating the U.S. who'd finally found their stride. Canada will probably walk all over the Jagr-less Czech team, but they'll have a hell of a hard time getting past Kipper and the Fins. As much as I like Brendan Morrow, Jarome Iginla, and Mario (who should really think about hanging up the skates again...), I don't think they'll beat the Fins if they bring their A game.

Go Finland (Esp. Jere Lehtinen, Niko Kapanen, Teppo Numinen, and Mikka Kiprusoff)!

-PG

[Warcow]

Calgary flames are the best hockey team going, period. :D (P.S) I live in Calgary and let me tell you all, the red miel is the most intense thing you will ever see

[Goldberg]

Originally posted by PlatinumG
I think we need a little bit more evidence than that, madd dog. :D

Anyway, back to hockey. As I said before, I think my prediction of the Fins going all the way may just be acurate. I see no reason why they can't beat the Canadian team after beating the U.S. who'd finally found their stride. Canada will probably walk all over the Jagr-less Czech team, but they'll have a hell of a hard time getting past Kipper and the Fins. As much as I like Brendan Morrow, Jarome Iginla, and Mario (who should really think about hanging up the skates again...), I don't think they'll beat the Fins if they bring their A game.

Go Finland (Esp. Jere Lehtinen, Niko Kapanen, Teppo Numinen, and Mikka Kiprusoff)!

-PG

Haha! We shall see by tuesday, foe!

Go Team Ca Na Da!

[Serge]

I was under the impression that Numminen won't be playing in the game against Canada, which will hut their chances, but it won't stop me cheering them on!

[PlatinumG]

Warcow, I agree that the Flames are a hot team just now (punn slightly intended), but let's not forget that it was Mikka Kiprusoff's goaltending that got them to where they were. ;)

Goldberg, Indeed we shall see. :D

Serge, I haven't seen anything about Numinen being out of the lineup; where did you hear this? If it's injury-related, that's understandable, but the respect the Fins have for him is too great to leave him out of the final game for 'misc. reasons.'

Suomi!

-PG

[Serge]

Who was it that left the team because they didn't agree with the coach? I thought it was Numinen.

[PlatinumG]

No, that was Janne Niinimaa, he walked out due to a "lack of chemistry" with Head Coach Raimo Summanen. Since his leaving, the controversy in the Finnish locker room has cleared up and they've been playing better than ever (bar the game against Germany, where they barely managed a half-hearted 2-1 victory...). Numinen has been playing strong throughout the whole tournament, and respect for him amongst the players has been just as strong as ever. :)

-PG

[Goldberg]

Originally posted by PlatinumG
Warcow, I agree that the Flames are a hot team just now (punn slightly intended), but let's not forget that it was Mikka Kiprusoff's goaltending that got them to where they were. ;)

True, that is one of the factors that "got" them into the NHL finals, but let me remind you that in the first round, when they were up against the Canucks, the leading goaltender for Vancouver (Cloutier) was out with an injury and the whole Bertuzzi-thing... As much as I would like to give Kiprusoff the credit he deserves, it wasn't just his sole doing.

Ca Na Da!

[PlatinumG]

Originally posted by Goldberg
True, that is one of the factors that "got" them into the NHL finals, but let me remind you that in the first round, when they were up against the Canucks, the leading goaltender for Vancouver (Cloutier) was out with an injury and the whole Bertuzzi-thing... As much as I would like to give Kiprusoff the credit he deserves, it wasn't just his sole doing.

Ca Na Da!

True, they did have it easy with Vancouver, but they were still greatly outplayed by the Red Wings, and couldn't have gotten past the Wings had it not been for Kiprusoff. The two games the Wings won were in decisive fashion, whereas the games the Flames won were one-goal-games. I'm not trying to say the Flames couldn't survive without Kiprusoff, I'm just trying to point out the fact that it was Mikka Kiprusoff's goaltending that bailed the Flames out every time they needed it.

It was true then, it'll hopefully hold true tonight for Finland.

Suomi!:p

-PG

[PlatinumG]

Excuse the double post here...:o

Looks like I was wrong, Canada just won 3-2. It was a good game, could've gone either way. I can't believe Kipper let that 2nd period goal in, very uncharacteristic of him, but it was great seeing Tuomo Ruutu getting the equalizer goal, he's had it coming for a while.

Only thing I don't agree with: Vinny Lecavalier (?) getting the MVP, no way did he deserve it over the likes of Kipper, Iginla, or even Saku Koivu. I don't know who decides the MVP, but they're obviously trying to play to the fan favourites, I completely disagree with that decision.

Either way, good game, I just hope this lockout doesn't last too long... :\

-PG

[Goldberg]

Well well well.. What do we have here, hmm?

Looks like Canada won? :rolleyes:

Bwa ha ha ha ha.

[Serge]

Oh darn the favorites won it, again.


That was a great game, I still can't believe the Finns lost it after the way they were playing. The entire coverage of the game ticked me off, the entire ESPN crew was Canada biased which was acceptable but they made it seem like rooting for Finland was a lost cause, and then when the game was over they acted like there was never a chance when Finland could have won it. I would give Tuomo Ruutu the goal of the tournament. He skated past the Conn Smythe winner (Richards), then pushed Gagne into the boards, and then deked around the Norris winner (Niedermeyer) to score on the Vezina winner (Brodeur). You can not beat that. You just can't. I also disagree with the MVP award. If you think about the name, it should have gone to Kipper, Most VALUABLE Player, Lecavalier was playing because Stevie Y couldn't be there. As deep as Canada's bench is no one player is all that valuable. If they lost Belfour, Luongo could step up, if they lost any of the skaters they had a plethora of great players to chose from. If the Finns had lost Kiprusoff, they wouldn't have done as good as they did. That makes him MVP in my opinion. [/really friggin' long rant]

[zzzaacckk]

WOOT!!!!! GO CANADA!!!!

[PlatinumG]

Before I get back to the WCH, I just want to say that I'm incredibly disappointed with the Union, and the press conference that went down today. A complete lockout of the NHL takes effect as of midnight tonight, and it's doubtful that the sport will ever regain its following in the U.S.; though Canada will most likely still thrive. To read the speach click here (http://www.nhlcbanews.com/transcripts/pressConfSep15.html).

Back to the WCH ;)

Originally posted by Serge
Oh darn the favorites won it, again.


That was a great game, I still can't believe the Finns lost it after the way they were playing. The entire coverage of the game ticked me off, the entire ESPN crew was Canada biased which was acceptable but they made it seem like rooting for Finland was a lost cause, and then when the game was over they acted like there was never a chance when Finland could have won it. I would give Tuomo Ruutu the goal of the tournament. He skated past the Conn Smythe winner (Richards), then pushed Gagne into the boards, and then deked around the Norris winner (Niedermeyer) to score on the Vezina winner (Belfour). You can not beat that. You just can't. I also disagree with the MVP award. If you think about the name, it should have gone to Kipper, Most VALUABLE Player, Lecavalier was playing because Stevie Y couldn't be there. As deep as Canada's bench is no one player is all that valuable. If they lost Belfour, Luongo could step up, if they lost any of the skaters they had a plethora of great players to chose from. If the Finns had lost Kiprusoff, they wouldn't have done as good as they did. That makes him MVP in my opinion. [/really friggin' long rant]

I'm afraid I have to disagree with you. Kipper was indeed the Fins' best goalie, that goes without saying, but on a statistical basis, Kari Lehtonen is just as good as Miikka, so had the Fins lost him, I don't think they'd have struggled too much with Lehtonen between the pipes. Sure, he's a rookie by NHL standards, but he's an incredible goalie none the less.

That being said, I have to agree with you on the fact that he was the most valuable player that the Finnish team had in their lineup, but using similar logic, it's hard to count out Teppo Numinen as an MVP candidate. Though his numbers might not have shown it, he was a huge presence on the ice for Finland. Just thought I'd mention that...

Yeah, the game was covered in an incredibly bias manner, but then again, it's only Barry Melrose, his opinion means nothing to real hockey fans. I didn't feel Thorne and Clement were too biased, but Roenick deffinately was. He acted as if Team Finland was Team Bangladesh or something (not meaning that in a slanderous manner, Bangladesh doesn't have a hockey team...hence my point in naming them...) and Team Canada were the coolest thing since sliced bread. He and Melrose would make a great commentary duo for fencing (all of those made-up names for moves...and such). Then again, the game was on N.American soil, so they had to make it sound as if it were complete domination for those watching the game that weren't 'hockey literate.'

If it wasn't for that Second period blunder by Kipper, the Fins would've completely dominated the game, and we'd be listening to the exact same facts coming from Canadian supporters...but C'est la vie, Das ist leben, That's life, no matter how you spin it, it's over, and the Fins'll just come back next time. :)

-PG

Edit: Just a quick note -- it was Brodeur in goal, not Belfour ;)

[Serge]

Originally posted by PlatinumG
Edit: Just a quick note -- it was Brodeur in goal, not Belfour ;)

I have no idea what you're talking about. Belfour?
>.>
<.<



;)

[Speed Demon]

Cnada wins.....now we have a sport were actually the favourites!
lecavalier deserved the mvp. He steped up and played his role. He scored the O.T winner against the czecs. And he as an all around good player---my opinion

[Serge]

PG, I'd like to know whether you agree with the owners or the union.

[PlatinumG]

I'll certainly get to that in just one moment, Serge ;)

First things first...Speed Demon, Lecavalier didn't play any better than anyone else on the Canadian team, regardless of the fact that he scored an OT goal. His Lightning teammates (Richards and St. Louis) played far better than he did, and nearly every noteworthy player on the Finnish team put up numbers far better than him. There is no way that he deserved the MVP. Those that picked the MVP were merely playing favourites, it was blatantly obvious what was happening from the begining of the game when the whole announce crew started talking about how much he's had to step up, then they cut away to the OT goal and come straight back to a picture of him sitting on the bench...Tell me how he deserves the MVP award over Saku Koivu, he scored a couple of game winners for Finland and played an excellent game against Canada. Or Teppo Numinen, who was absolutely solid on defense the entire tournament. Going by the logic they apparently used to pick the MVP, why wasn't Tuomo Ruutu picked? He scored one of the 'pretiest' goals you're ever likely to see. So please tell me how giving Lecavalier the MVP is justified?

Going back to Serge's question, I agree primarily with the Bettman and the Owners, rather than the union. It was indeed obvious that the economic system wasn't going to work, and paying the players the money they get paid is rediculous. Case in point -- Chris Pronger signing for 1 year/$10 million; he is not worth that much money no matter how often he scores, how many goals he prevents, or many big hits he puts up. I don't think there should be a team salary cap, as much as their should be an individual salary cap (ie: players cannot make more than, say, $5 million/year in their career; and a lesser dependancy on incentives and bonuses). This alone would reduce the average salary and would also allow the team owners to reduce ticket prices, which would ultimately result in greater revenue and less teams going bankrupt. Sure, player costs aren't the only issues that are hurting the game's economy, the U.S. fanbase just isn't into hockey as much as they're into football, basketball, and baseball. This has had a direct effect on the economy for years, and it's going to be damn near impossible to fix now.

I find it disgraceful that the union sat around for over a years worth of meetings and had the nerve to put forth the exact same proposal on 3 seperate occaisions, and at no time was it even remotely approved of by the owners. Had I been in the position of the union, I would've accepted one of the owners' numerous proposals and gotten on with the game, but for them to hang around trying to get more money for themselves and infinite money for their clients is absolutely absurd! Thanks to their arrogant attitude towards this situation, we've completely lost out on a hockey season.

-PG

[Speed Demon]

Lockout

This isn't good news. I cant live without watching hockey. Ithink it'll be till January. What do you guys think?

[Jeffery]

Sorry. I can not side with some whining little shits who complain that millions is not enough money.

The basic facts are this:

Players want to be payed more money than the teams are making. That's rediculous.

[PlatinumG]

I think it'll last far past January. As Jeffery pointed out, the players want more money than most teams can bring in. Until the union can get it through their heads that players can't be paid money that doesn't exist, there won't be a new agreement, much less, a new season for the NHL.

As I mentioned before, this lockout will be the deathbed for the NHL as we know it. I don't blame the owners for locking out the players, but instead of completely shutting down all of their facilities, they should use the members of their farm teams to fill the spots on their NHL teams and keep the league competative that way. I highly doubt things'll change now, but it's a constructive suggestion none the less.

Back to the original purpose of this post; I think that the lockout will either end in November (in the unlikely event that the union realises their cock up) or it'll last past Febuary (when the union realises they won't "win" this "battle"). Either way, it's up to the union to finally decide to start settling this issue.

-PG

[PlatinumG]

'scuse the bumpage of the currently dead hockey discussion, but I thought it might behoove some of you to know that there have been official rule changes implimented in the AHL that will more than likely take effect when the NHL starts up again. The just of the rules are as follows:

AHL.com
Rule changes approved for the 2004-05 AHL season include:
# Permission of “tagging up” to negate off-side plays
# Implementation of “no-touch” icing
# Widening the blue lines and center red line to 24 inches and moving the goal line back to 11 feet from the end boards, adding space to the neutral zone
# Employing a shootout to decide regular-season games which are tied after overtime

The AHL will also implement, for the first seven weeks of the 2004-05 regular season, a limited test of a rule restricting the areas where goaltenders may play the puck in an attempt to increase offensive opportunities without wholly eliminating a goaltender’s ability to assist his defensemen.

You can read the full article here (http://www.theahl.com/AHL/News/2004/09/21/638088.html).

-PG

[Jeffery]

Muahahahaha!

NHL is dead and will never restart!!! HAHAHA

[Red Fire]

I know this is a little late, but i highly doubt it will last past January, on account of 2 main reasons:
1. The NHL and NHLPA are going to have a lot of meetings to try to settle this. I believe that if the NHLPA listens to what Gary Betman and the others have to say, they'll re-consider.

AND

2. The Coaches/GMs of Teams that were part of the 1994/95 lock-out are banning together to try to get their team worked into what is going on. They have the experience to overcome this lock-out with relative quickness.

I know most of you will argue, but that's what I believe, choose to go by it, or make your point, and sorry i ahven't posted in awhile, been busy with school! I'll try to post more often on my thread:D

[PlatinumG]

Originally posted by Red Fire
I know this is a little late, but i highly doubt it will last past January, on account of 2 main reasons:
1. The NHL and NHLPA are going to have a lot of meetings to try to settle this. I believe that if the NHLPA listens to what Gary Betman and the others have to say, they'll re-consider.

AND

2. The Coaches/GMs of Teams that were part of the 1994/95 lock-out are banning together to try to get their team worked into what is going on. They have the experience to overcome this lock-out with relative quickness.

I know most of you will argue, but that's what I believe, choose to go by it, or make your point, and sorry i ahven't posted in awhile, been busy with school! I'll try to post more often on my thread:D

Hey, good to see ya' again! :D

I'm afraid I'm going to have to argue your first point based on the fact that the Union (NHLPA) is unwilling to work cooperatively on this problem, much less admit to the fact that there actually is a problem (regardless of what their website might say at this point in time). So far they've been unwilling to listen to the owners' proposals, so I highly doubt they'll start now.

As far as I'm aware, there haven't been any meetings scheduled between the two entities, so the likelyhood of this coming to a swift ending are getting more and more slim.

Though, I think I'll stick with my original prediction of things happening by November, or nothing going until well after Febuary...

-PG

[Red Fire]

Ok, now i am really starting doubt the NHL's capabilty of handling this situation. I am really not blaming this mess on the NHL, but more so on the NHLPA and their stubborn characteristic. The CEO of NHLPA stated (on live TV) that, "This is because the NHL wants to feel more powerful than the NHLPA. The NHL is fine with money right now and they just feel that this will help them become more powerful." I can't remember his exzact words, but that sums it up. He was also faced with 1 of the hardest questions he had to answer. The question was "Successful sports, such as the NFL and NBA, have money caps on their players, what makes your players so 'special'?" I forget his answer but he did side-step the answer for a bit. This lock-out may last longer than I predicted, since I haven't seen or heard anything about it in the last little while........

Hopefully the OSHL will start up soon and get hockey back on the map!:D

[Jeffery]

It has already been announced the entire 04-05 season is cancelled. The 94 loxkout was ended early so there could be half a season, and in the end the agreement ended upl screwing the teams over.
They will not make the same mistake now.

[Red Fire]

Where and when did you hear this?

[sooner4life]

i heard it a month ago

RED WINGS ALL THE WAY

[Red Fire]

No, that was about a lock-out, now Jeffery is saying that the 04-05 season is CANCELLED......... Unless jeffery just said that to get attention, I want proof, Jeffery!

[PlatinumG]

The NHL season was never cancelled, they just shut down operations until such time as the untiln and the NHL can come to a sound agreement (though the NHLPA is completely unwilling at this time, by the sounds of it).

BTW, just so you know, the OSHL has been going for a while now (Sept. 17th, the games started up), Red ;)

-PG

[Jeffery]

While it has not been officially canceled, the statements made by the team owners referring to how concessions like those made to end the 94 lockout will NOT be made again.
The fact that no talks are ongoing or even planned at this point says it all. Neither side is willing to even talk to each other.
You want proof of it being cancelled, just look at everythig going on.

For backgound, during the 94 lockout, the owners finally conceded to player requests, and made major concessions in the agreement to reopen the season. They will not do that again.

[Red Fire]

I know coaches don't have much say, but the coaches involved in the 94 lock-out know what to do. The GMs also know how to handle this situation. And BTW, the events happening now, have nothing to do with a season cancellation, they are the events of the lock-out, and a lock-out is far from a season cancellation. The NHL has plans to make sure that even if this lock-out lasts long, there will be an NHL season.
And PG, yes the OSHL has started and has been running for some time now, but they too have run into problems with money and have had to cut some games and even had to cancel some due to arena costs.

Source for all this info: CBC, The Score

[Jeffery]

Saying the lockout is not a cancelation is a matter of semantics only.
The owners have stated they are not conceding any issues. The play leagues have done the same.
Without concessions, there will be no season. And the "nhl plans" are basically to start caling the under leagues NHL and let them play instead.

[Red Fire]

Not all true, the NHL plans, are to shorten the length of the regualr season agmes to 54 instead of 82, also, a cancellation would be far from a lock-out a lock-out is a temporary stoppage of all NHL games, but it does not state, that the NHL season is souly canceled!

[Jeffery]

Originally posted by Red Fire
Not all true, the NHL plans, are to shorten the length of the regualr season agmes to 54 instead of 82, also, a cancellation would be far from a lock-out a lock-out is a temporary stoppage of all NHL games, but it does not state, that the NHL season is souly canceled!


And did you not realise that a lockout that lasts the entire season will result in NO games being played. And hence CANCELLING the season? All the NHL plans in the world mean nothing with the lockout in place. And while you may think its temporary, read the releases by the two sides where each declare their intention to not give in.

[Red Fire]

Everyone says 'they will not give in', but in the end, to keep both their jobs, they'll need a season. And unless you have any proof of this being a cancellation and not a lock-out it stands as a lock-out. The NHL season would just be starting, they still have about 3 months to settle, and if and when that time comes around and they aren't settled, then yes u are right, it's a season cancellation, but if they settle before that time, the season is just delayed, DELAYED!!!

[Jeffery]

Hey, you're allowed to delude yourself I guess. But don;t hold your breath. I was there for the last one, and no what to expect this time around.

[Red Fire]

Sorry for the long reply, been busy, but i was also there for the last one and know how it feels.
But more on topic of what i want to ask now, on Wednesday October 13, 2004, Gary Bettman was on NHL.com in a chat room taking questions from fans, I missed it unfortenetly due to work, I was wondering if anyone participated in that event. If so, state your question and answer and how you feel he handled the situation.

[T3km4n]

I guess hockey is cool...

[PlatinumG]

Originally posted by Red Fire
Sorry for the long reply, been busy, but i was also there for the last one and know how it feels.
But more on topic of what i want to ask now, on Wednesday October 13, 2004, Gary Bettman was on NHL.com in a chat room taking questions from fans, I missed it unfortenetly due to work, I was wondering if anyone participated in that event. If so, state your question and answer and how you feel he handled the situation.

I missed that one, also. I read through the transcripts, however, and it seems as though both groups are unwilling to budge from their current viewpoints, regardless of numerous decent ideas put forth by people entirely unrelated to the NHL or the NHLPA (TSN, for example, put forth a couple of decent proposals to their Hockey fanbase, which the NHL/PA could deffinately have taken a closer look into); this just shows that they're more concerned about not 'loosing' in this debacle than they are about actually reaching a fair and generous agreement.

Hell, even a compromise would help the NHL more at this point, regardless of what Bettman mentioned in the Chat...

-PG

[Red Fire]

I do agree with you on this is more of a reputation lock-out now as it seems, since each side says they "won't give-in" it's basically who has the guts to stay out the longest. That's not what hockey is about, inspiration to kids, entertainment and enjoyment for others.


Bring Back the Good Old Days of Hockey Where Games are Games not Contracts and Money!

[madd dog36]

hocey rules....so disapointed theres no season this year

[PlatinumG]

Originally posted by Red Fire
I do agree with you on this is more of a reputation lock-out now as it seems, since each side says they "won't give-in" it's basically who has the guts to stay out the longest. That's not what hockey is about, inspiration to kids, entertainment and enjoyment for others.


Bring Back the Good Old Days of Hockey Where Games are Games not Contracts and Money!

Sadly, those good old days are gone for good. Money is the only thing that matters in todays world, and how much you can make of it.

The only thing we can hope for at this point, is that the AHL signs a nation-wide TV deal (already going in Canada [Rogers Sportsnet]), so that some form of hockey is still broadcast. The G4TechTV season is a start, but it's still only simulated hockey action...

-PG

[Murzor]

defense on my highschool team.

no comment on the lockout.

[Red Fire]

Refering to what you said, there is this show on CBC (for Canadians) called Making the Cut , it's about people trying to get a second shot at playing in the NHL. So that's some form of hockey for us Canadians.
I really hope the AHL buys TV broadcasting, it should be easy since the NHL isn't on TV officially.

[PlatinumG]

Originally posted by Red Fire
Refering to what you said, there is this show on CBC (for Canadians) called Making the Cut , it's about people trying to get a second shot at playing in the NHL. So that's some form of hockey for us Canadians.
I really hope the AHL buys TV broadcasting, it should be easy since the NHL isn't on TV officially.

Indeed. It seems Canadians will be the only ones who see any form of hockey this year inside North America. That is, unless people actually started attending AHL/IHL/UHL/QJMHL/ECHL/OHL/Etc league games (despite the fact that most of those are actually...in Canada). 'Tis a sad thing, this living outside of Canada; there's nothing but Baseball on these days... :(

Making the Cut sounds like a decent show, anyone noteworthy taking part in it?

-PG

[Red Fire]

Nah not really, a 40 year-old goalie who still wants to make it and others, but I don't think any BIG name people.
Another note, Don Cherry has come out of "hiding" and has predicted the lock-out will last for 18 months.
Stupid NHL/NHLPA, my vote, fire all NHL/NHLPA memebers and hire new ones, u could make a show about it, amke Donald Trump the host, lol, ;)

[PlatinumG]

Actually, that's not such a bad idea, except for the Donald Trump part...

Personally, though, I'd just get rid of the NHLPA and Gary Bettman (despite the fact that he's right on most issues at the moment, he's been the source for a lot of the leagues problems as well...). Replacing them would do the league a world of good, in my opinion.

-PG

[DuBious]

Has anybody been watching the OHSL? It's decent hockey. It's certainly not the NHL, but it's got a few stars / prospects and it's gonna need some support if it's going to get off the ground. If you want to see hockey played by professionals just for the fun of it, it's perfect. The scores are high because it's 4 on 4, but it's good action.

[madd dog36]

Never heard of it... i usually watch the ahl its pretty decent and fun....it features some nhlers

[PlatinumG]

Originally posted by madd dog36
Never heard of it... i usually watch the ahl its pretty decent and fun....it features some nhlers

Assuming DuBious is referring to the same OSHL as I've come to know, the OSHL is shorthand for Original Stars Hockey League, formed by former Dallas Star Grant Ledyard. The league features some of the most established NHLers there are, and some of the most promising youngsters from last season (Brendan Morrow, Krys Kolanos, Nick Boynton, Marty Turco, Aaron Downey; just to name a few [NHLers]). It was started as a fun league for up-and-comers and such as an alternative to the likes of the OHL, ECHL, AHL, and so on.

I haven't seen any of the games, yet, but I hear it's quite an entertaining league to watch.

-PG

[madd dog36]

Sounds pretty cool. Do you happen to know where you can watch it?

[PlatinumG]

At this point, I'm not sure if it's being televised, however you can go to the various arenas to watch the games.

You can find out more about the league here (http://www.oshl.ca).

-PG :)

[Serge]

Morrow, Turco, and Downey? Sweet.

[PlatinumG]

Originally posted by Serge
Morrow, Turco, and Downey? Sweet.

yep, I've heard rumor of other Stars players in there too, but I can't remember who they were, but it seems most a good portion of the Stars roster is slowly drifiting towards the OSHL.

-PG :)

[madd dog36]

Originally posted by PlatinumG
At this point, I'm not sure if it's being televised, however you can go to the various arenas to watch the games.

You can find out more about the league here (http://www.oshl.ca).

-PG :)

Thanks, You were right there is a lot of nhlers in this league. And their pretty descent.

[DuBious]

Hasek is in there too.:) For those who want to know, they're touring a lot of "smaller venues" in Canada, like Victoria, Medicine Hat, Saskatoon, Halifax, Fredricton etc. It was REALLY nice being able to watch them for only 20$ in my own hometown! Pretty sweet huh?:p Only beef I have is that the scores are very high... but on the other hand, what else can you expect in 4 on 4 action? It's offensive minded, wild goalie action. I loved it.

[madd dog36]

Yes canada rules once again!

Dude do you know if the're coming in Montreal...

That would be pretty sweet

[PlatinumG]

Originally posted by DuBious
Hasek is in there too.:) For those who want to know, they're touring a lot of "smaller venues" in Canada, like Victoria, Medicine Hat, Saskatoon, Halifax, Fredricton etc. It was REALLY nice being able to watch them for only 20$ in my own hometown! Pretty sweet huh?:p Only beef I have is that the scores are very high... but on the other hand, what else can you expect in 4 on 4 action? It's offensive minded, wild goalie action. I loved it.

The whole point to the 4 on 4 was to get those high scoring games (and, of course, to add a little more fun for all involved). I think once they settle into a distinct schedule (after a season or two), they'll probably start adding new elements to the game. The way they're going, I wouldn't be surprised if fan interaction became a major part of the league.

That'd actually be a really great league to watch, should fan interaction become a greater part of it. It'd help deter the politics of the NHL, and get back to the game of hockey, with the players who are passionate about playing it.

-PG :)

[Red Fire]

Dam this lock-out is going on way too far, I;m glad they are starting up the national Canadian league. At leat I'll ahve hockey HIGHLIGHTS to watch. Anyone heard anymore stories, or have any hockey stories?, trying to bring this thread back to life.