The Washington Capitals, led by Alex Ovechkin brought their high powered offense to St. Paul on Thursday evening.
Niklas Backstrom & the Wild were ready for them as they played their best game of the season defeating Washington 2-1 at Xcel.
The Wild got on the board in the 1st period when Chuck Kobasew took a pass from Clayton Stoner and buried it past Capitals goalie Michael Neuvirth on a wrist shot to give Minnesota a 1-0.
Minnesota got their second goal of the game on Power Play with sixteen seconds left to play in the 2nd period when Mikko Koivu found the back of the net on a snap shot to give the Wild a 2-0 lead.
That would be all goalie Niklas Backstrom would need as he turned away 21 of the 22 shots he faced. Alex Ovechkin scored the only goal for Washington on a wrist shot with 1:36 to play in the 3rd period. Minnesota was able to keep the capitals from tying the game as time expired giving the Wild two important points in the standings.
You can check out highlights from the game by clicking on to the link.
Notes from the game:
1. Annti Miettinen was scratched from the game due to an illness & Chuck Kobasew took his place on the 1st line with Mikko Koivu & Andrew Brunette. There has been some talk about breaking up that top line just to get a different look.
Miettinen will probably be back in the lineup for Saturday's game but after tonight I think Kobasew has earned the opportunity to play on the top line for at least another game.
2. Another line I am liking right now is the line of Eric Nystrom, Cal Clutterbuck & John Madden. The energy this line plays with is enough to wreak havoc on the ice no matter who they are matched up against.
They remind me of the Crash Line New Jersey had back in the mid 90's consisting of Bobby Holik, Randy McKay, & Mike Peluso. Jacques Lemaire could put them out on the ice in just about any situation and get the momentum of the game to swing in his favor. It's too early to tell if this line can do the same thing but it bears watching.
3. Martin Havlat's agent Allan Walsh went public yesterday saying Havlat was being under utilized on the ice.
This is not the 1st time Walsh has had a beef with the Wild. He was the agent for Marian Gaborik & Pascal Dupius when they had their contract holdout at the start of the 2003 season. He also was the agent for Petr Sykora when he was with the Wild last season and complained about the way Todd Richards was using him.
Havlat played on a line tonight with Matt Cullen & Casey Wellman instead of being moved to the top line to take the place of Miettinen. Richards said the decision had nothing to do with the comments of Havlat's agent.
I believe Richards mainly because Guillaume Latendresse was out tonight with a groin injury. I'm guessing he didn't want to break up the entire line.
Watching Havlat tonight he did look slow on the ice at times especially compared to Cullen & Wellman. Havlat has been under pressure to perform since signing a contract after Gaborik left as a free agent. His agent did him no favors by calling out the coaching staff on how he has been used.
What is different for Havlat is that when he played in Ottawa & Chicago he was a secondary scorer. Playing with the likes of Daniel Alfredsson, Marian Hossa, Patrick Kane & Jonathan Toews you aren't expected to carry the load on offense. Here in Minnesota he is being asked to replace a guy who had the potential to be a 40 goal scorer when healthy.
Whether Havlat can be that guy or not remains to be seen. One thing he could do is go back to 14 instead of 24. After all, that jersey number hasn't scored a goal in five years.
That will do for today. The defending Stanley Cup champion Chicago Blackhawks are in town tomorrow night to play the Wild. That usually is a fun one. I'll be back on Monday with the latest Power Poll.
Until then, Thanks for reading & enjoy the hockey.
Friday, October 29, 2010
Tuesday, October 26, 2010
NHL Power Poll: Week 2
!st of all I apologize for being a day late on the power poll. I was in Wisconsin this past weekend and I drove back to the cities yesterday afternoon so I had no access to a computer.
That being said we have had a lot of teams make moves since last week so let's get to the poll.
1. (7) Nashville 5-0-3 13 points
Only team without a loss in regulation
2. (8) Los Angeles 6-2-0 12 points
Loss of Drew Doughty to injury could be a concern
3. (4) Detroit 5-1-1 11 points
Jimmy Howard is 4-01 with a GAA of 2.14 on the season
4. (9) Tampa Bay 5-2-1 11 points
Steven Stamkos leads the league in points with 15 (8 G, 7 A)
5. (6) Montreal 5-2-1 11 points
Carey Price has been in net for all 8 games this season
6. (10) Pittsburgh 5-3-1 11 points
Crosby & Malkin 1-2 in scoring on the Penguins
7. (5) Chicago 5-4-1 11 points
Patrick Sharp & Marian Hossa are both in the top 5 in scoring
8. (3) Dallas 5-2-0 10 points
Brad Richards (2G, 8A) is off to a hot start in his contract year
9. (1) Washington 5-3-0 10 points
So far Alex Ovechkin has 4 goals & 4 assists on the season
10. (23) Calgary 5-3-0 10 points
3-1 week is the reason for the big jump in the poll
11. (21) Columbus 5-3-0 10 points
Off to a better start than last season. The attendance at Nationwide Arena would tell you differently
A lot of good players. Still waiting for one of them to take the next step to greatness
13. (13) NY Islanders 4-2-2 10 points
GM Garth Snow should get more credit for the job he has done to rebuild this roster
14. (25) NY Rangers 4-2-1 9 points
Currently on a three game win streak
15. (2) Toronto 4-2-1 9 points
Might want to hold off on those Stanley Cup Parade plans
16. (18) Boston 4-2-0 8 points
Extension for Zdeno Chara should allow him to retire as a Bruin
17. (19) Carolina 4-3-0 8 points
2-3 since returning from Finland
18. (12) Colorado 4-4-0 8 points
Matt Duchene has only found the back of the net once this season
19. (14) Vancouver 3-3-2 8 points
Rick Ryien incident another black eye for the NHL
20. (27) Minnesota 3-3-2 8 points
If there is a better free agent signing than Matt Cullen this season I'd like to see who it is.
21. (24) San Jose 3-3-1 7 points
Off to an average start this season
22. (11) Atlanta 3-4-1 7 points
only drew 9,000 in two home games this season
23. (16) Philadelphia 3-4-1 7 points
Brian Boucher has received the last two starts in goal
24. (29) Buffalo 3-5-1 7 points
Ryan Miller has been their top performer in half their games this season
25. (17) Anaheim 3-5-1 7 points
Top line of Getzlaf/Perry/Ryan providing most of the offense for the Ducks
26. (26) Phoenix 2-2-3 7 points
Only drew 6,706 people for a game last week against Los Angeles
27. (22) Florida 3-3-0 6 points
3rd in the league with a goals against per game of 2.00
28. (28) Ottawa 2-5-1 5 points
GM Bryan Murray has said that everyone is available
29. (30) New Jersey 2-6-1 5 points
Ilya Kovalchuk was a healthy scratch on Saturday. That's a lot of money to pay a guy to watch.
30. (20) Edmonton 2-4-0 4 points
Has lost four in a row since 2-0 start
Wednesday, October 20, 2010
Rypien incident overshadows Wild win
When I started writing this blog back in may my goal was to show everyone who read this how great the game of hockey can be. I also knew from time to time some incidents that put the game in a negative spotlight would happen
Last night at Xcel was one of those incidents.
Last night the Minnesota Wild defeated the Vancouver Canucks by a score of 6-2. The story of the game should have been how dominate the Wild looked against a Stanley Cup contender after a poor game against Columbus a couple nights earlier.
Instead the game took a backseat due to the actions of Canucks forward Rick Rypien.
In the 1st period Rypien got into a fight with wild forward Brad Staubitz. In the 2nd the Canucks were down 5-1 with a little over six minutes to play in the period when Rypien decided he wanted to go one on one once again with Staubitz.
This time the linesman stepped in before the fight could get started. The next minute would show a huge lapse in judgment on the part of Rypien.
First Rypien would get one more cheap shot in on Staubitz while the referee was breaking them up, then he put his hands on one of the linesman as he was being escorted away.
Putting your hands on an official is bad enough but on the way to the dressing room Rypien went after a Wild fan who was sitting behind the Canucks bench.
That's the one thing you can't do under any circumstances in any sport is go after the fan. Yes, they buy their tickets and they have the right to boo or heckle you as they see fit. If they get out of line that is what security is there for.
A player's job is to go out, play the game & help his team win. Hockey is a very emotional game but you have to be able to control your emotions in situations like this & Rypien failed to do that.
At this point we don't know if or what the fan said to Rypien. From the looks of it all it shows was the fan clapping at Rypien being sent to the locker room. I didn't see one thing the fan did that justifies Rypien going after him.
As of right now Rypien is suspended indefinitely. That's the NHL's way of saying we aren't sure how long we should suspend him, all we know is he can't play until we figure this out. more heinous acts have been committed on the ice but looking back on the sequence of events here is how I think the suspension will play out.
Sucker-punch on Staubitz after the referees breaking it up: 1 game
Putting his hands on an official: 5 games
Going after a fan: 10 games
Looks like a 16 game suspension to me which means he wouldn't come back until December. I'll put the number at 16 & take the over.
Commissioner Gary Bettman can't allow incidents like this to happen in the NHL. My guess is Rypien will be used to make an example. After last night, he could use the time off to think about his actions.
Last night at Xcel was one of those incidents.
Last night the Minnesota Wild defeated the Vancouver Canucks by a score of 6-2. The story of the game should have been how dominate the Wild looked against a Stanley Cup contender after a poor game against Columbus a couple nights earlier.
Instead the game took a backseat due to the actions of Canucks forward Rick Rypien.
In the 1st period Rypien got into a fight with wild forward Brad Staubitz. In the 2nd the Canucks were down 5-1 with a little over six minutes to play in the period when Rypien decided he wanted to go one on one once again with Staubitz.
This time the linesman stepped in before the fight could get started. The next minute would show a huge lapse in judgment on the part of Rypien.
First Rypien would get one more cheap shot in on Staubitz while the referee was breaking them up, then he put his hands on one of the linesman as he was being escorted away.
Putting your hands on an official is bad enough but on the way to the dressing room Rypien went after a Wild fan who was sitting behind the Canucks bench.
That's the one thing you can't do under any circumstances in any sport is go after the fan. Yes, they buy their tickets and they have the right to boo or heckle you as they see fit. If they get out of line that is what security is there for.
A player's job is to go out, play the game & help his team win. Hockey is a very emotional game but you have to be able to control your emotions in situations like this & Rypien failed to do that.
At this point we don't know if or what the fan said to Rypien. From the looks of it all it shows was the fan clapping at Rypien being sent to the locker room. I didn't see one thing the fan did that justifies Rypien going after him.
As of right now Rypien is suspended indefinitely. That's the NHL's way of saying we aren't sure how long we should suspend him, all we know is he can't play until we figure this out. more heinous acts have been committed on the ice but looking back on the sequence of events here is how I think the suspension will play out.
Sucker-punch on Staubitz after the referees breaking it up: 1 game
Putting his hands on an official: 5 games
Going after a fan: 10 games
Looks like a 16 game suspension to me which means he wouldn't come back until December. I'll put the number at 16 & take the over.
Commissioner Gary Bettman can't allow incidents like this to happen in the NHL. My guess is Rypien will be used to make an example. After last night, he could use the time off to think about his actions.
Monday, October 18, 2010
POWER POLL: WEEK 1
Hello hockey fans, Every Monday throughout the regular season I will have a Power Poll ranking all 30 NHL teams based on what they have done this season.
Some teams will be stuck at or near where their rankings is the entire year and some teams will make a significant jump or take a nasty tumble through the rankings as the season goes on.
Lets get on with week one
1. Washington 4-1-0 8 points
Rookie John Carlson already has 6 points (1G, 5A)
2. Toronto 4-0-0 8 points
Clarke MacArthur has been an early season surprise leading the Leafs with 5 goals.
3. Dallas 4-0-0 8 points
Kari Lehtonen has a Goals Against Avergae of 2.39 as Turco's replacement.
4. Detroit 3-1-1 7 points
Brian Rafalski was a +5 on the ice before his injury.
5. Chicago 3-2-1 7 points
Turco in Chicago has a GAA of 2.96
6. Montreal 3-1-1 7 points
Carey Price has bounced back nicely since opening night loss going 3-0-1 with a GAA of 2.57
7. Nashville 3-0-1 7 points
Strong start in October could be the key to another playoff berth.
8. Los Angeles 3-1-0 6 points
Ryan Smyth leads the team with 5 points (2G, 3A) and is a +6 on the ice.
9. Tampa Bay 3-1-0 6 points
It's early but so far the off-season moves are working
10. Pittsburgh 3-3-0 6 points
1-3 to start the season in their new arena.
11. Atlanta 3-2-0 6 points
Anthony Stewart recorded his 1st NHL hat trick on Friday.
12. Colorado 3-2-0 6 points
Jon Michael Liles already has seven assists and is a +6 for the Avs.
13. NY Islanders 2-1-2 6 points
Holding their own depsite injuries to their two best forwards (John Tavares & Kyle Okposo)
14. Vancouver 2-2-1 5 points
It's early, they'll be fine.
15. St. Louis 2-1-1 5 points
So far they are perfect at home (2-0)
16. Philadelphia 2-2-1 5 points
Could Sergei Bobrovsky (2-1 2.67 GAA) finally solve their question in goal?
17. Anaheim 2-3-1 5 points
2nd worst GAA (3.67) in the league. Scott Niedermeyer's retirement not a coincidence.
18. Boston 2-1-0 4 points
Nathan Horton already has 5 points (3G, 2A) Since coming over from Florida..
19. Carolina 2-2-0 4 points
It's early but rookie forward Jeff Skinner looks like a star.
20. Edmonton 2-2-0 4 points
They may not be a playoff team this season but their core of kids will make them fun to watch.
21. Columbus 2-2-0 4 points
Rick Nash is off to a slow start with only one goal in four games.
22. Florida 2-2-0 4 points
Only ahead of Calgary due to their 3-0 win over the Flames on Thursday.
23. Calgary 2-2-0 4 points
See Florida.
24. San Jose 1-1-1 3 points
Just got back from Europe, they'll be fine
25. NY Rangers 1-1-1 3 points
Rookie Derek Stepen scored a hat trick in 1st game for the Rangers
26. Phoenix 1-2-1 3 points
Their off the ice mess could be solved by the end of December
27. Minnesota 1-2-1 3 points
The Wild have the best Power Play in the league (38.1%)
28. Ottawa 1-3-1 3 points
Both Pascal Leclaire & Brian Elliott are struggling in goal
29. Buffalo 1-4-1 3 Points
Ryan Miller is stopping the puck but no one else is scoring
30. New Jersey 1-4-1 3 points
It's hard to win games when you don't have a full bench due to Salary Cap restraints.
Some teams will be stuck at or near where their rankings is the entire year and some teams will make a significant jump or take a nasty tumble through the rankings as the season goes on.
Lets get on with week one
1. Washington 4-1-0 8 points
Rookie John Carlson already has 6 points (1G, 5A)
2. Toronto 4-0-0 8 points
Clarke MacArthur has been an early season surprise leading the Leafs with 5 goals.
3. Dallas 4-0-0 8 points
Kari Lehtonen has a Goals Against Avergae of 2.39 as Turco's replacement.
4. Detroit 3-1-1 7 points
Brian Rafalski was a +5 on the ice before his injury.
5. Chicago 3-2-1 7 points
Turco in Chicago has a GAA of 2.96
6. Montreal 3-1-1 7 points
Carey Price has bounced back nicely since opening night loss going 3-0-1 with a GAA of 2.57
7. Nashville 3-0-1 7 points
Strong start in October could be the key to another playoff berth.
8. Los Angeles 3-1-0 6 points
Ryan Smyth leads the team with 5 points (2G, 3A) and is a +6 on the ice.
9. Tampa Bay 3-1-0 6 points
It's early but so far the off-season moves are working
10. Pittsburgh 3-3-0 6 points
1-3 to start the season in their new arena.
11. Atlanta 3-2-0 6 points
Anthony Stewart recorded his 1st NHL hat trick on Friday.
12. Colorado 3-2-0 6 points
Jon Michael Liles already has seven assists and is a +6 for the Avs.
13. NY Islanders 2-1-2 6 points
Holding their own depsite injuries to their two best forwards (John Tavares & Kyle Okposo)
14. Vancouver 2-2-1 5 points
It's early, they'll be fine.
15. St. Louis 2-1-1 5 points
So far they are perfect at home (2-0)
16. Philadelphia 2-2-1 5 points
Could Sergei Bobrovsky (2-1 2.67 GAA) finally solve their question in goal?
17. Anaheim 2-3-1 5 points
2nd worst GAA (3.67) in the league. Scott Niedermeyer's retirement not a coincidence.
18. Boston 2-1-0 4 points
Nathan Horton already has 5 points (3G, 2A) Since coming over from Florida..
19. Carolina 2-2-0 4 points
It's early but rookie forward Jeff Skinner looks like a star.
20. Edmonton 2-2-0 4 points
They may not be a playoff team this season but their core of kids will make them fun to watch.
21. Columbus 2-2-0 4 points
Rick Nash is off to a slow start with only one goal in four games.
22. Florida 2-2-0 4 points
Only ahead of Calgary due to their 3-0 win over the Flames on Thursday.
23. Calgary 2-2-0 4 points
See Florida.
24. San Jose 1-1-1 3 points
Just got back from Europe, they'll be fine
25. NY Rangers 1-1-1 3 points
Rookie Derek Stepen scored a hat trick in 1st game for the Rangers
26. Phoenix 1-2-1 3 points
Their off the ice mess could be solved by the end of December
27. Minnesota 1-2-1 3 points
The Wild have the best Power Play in the league (38.1%)
28. Ottawa 1-3-1 3 points
Both Pascal Leclaire & Brian Elliott are struggling in goal
29. Buffalo 1-4-1 3 Points
Ryan Miller is stopping the puck but no one else is scoring
30. New Jersey 1-4-1 3 points
It's hard to win games when you don't have a full bench due to Salary Cap restraints.
Friday, October 15, 2010
Wild win home opener
Last night at Xcel Energy Center the Minnesota Wild started their 10th season by taking a look back at the 10 greatest moments in team history.
Matt Cullen added some great moments in his 1st game with the Wild scoring one goal & assisting on another in leading the club to a 4-2 win over Edmonton.
Minnesota got on the board first when Antti Miettinen took a pass from Andrew Brunette and scored on a wrist shot.
The Oilers would come back in the 2nd period and tie the game on a Power Play goal by Dustin Penner. Edmonton would take their first lead nearly six minutes later on a slap shot by Tom Gilbert.
Minnesota would tie the game up at the fourteen minute mark when Mikko Koivu scored on a beautiful feed from Cullen.
Minnesota would get another power play six seconds after that goal and would score again on a wrist shot by Koivu.
In the 3rd period Cullen would get his first goal as a member of the Wild on a shot from the point that deflected in off an Oilers skate.
It was the 4th power play goal from the Wild and gave them a 4-2 lead which would end up being the final.
A couple observations from last night.
1. Their power play was excellent scoring all four goals and going four for six on the night
2. Just as important was their penalty kill. The Wild took four penalties in the 1st period and were ale to kill off all four of them. The Oilers did eventually score a power play goal in the 2nd but the penalty kill effort is what kept Minnesota in the game.
3. Matt Cullen played in his first home game in Minnesota since he played for St. Cloud State. I thought he was the best player on he ice for the Wild and his play from the point should make the power play better this year for Minnesota. Cullen may be the Wild's best free agent acquisition since Brian Rolston.
4. Marek Zidlicky made his season debut after missing the 1st two games in Finland with a groin injury. Having Cullen playing on the point this year should take some pressure off Zidlicky and he should be better this season.
5. How important was last night's win? With the win the Wild are now a point out of first place in the division.
Yes I know there are still 78 more games to play but Edmonton came in winning their first two games of the season. A win last night would have given the Oilers a five point lead over the Wild in the division.
A five point lead isn't hard to overcome this early in the season but coming off a pretty poor preseason there was a sense of urgency in the Wild locker room last night.
You can't clinch a playoff berth in October but you can easily lose one. The Wild have five of their next seven games at home. The Wild need to take advantage of the schedule. The next home game is against Columbus on Saturday. Let's see if the momentum will carry over.
Thanks for reading & enjoy the hockey.
Matt Cullen added some great moments in his 1st game with the Wild scoring one goal & assisting on another in leading the club to a 4-2 win over Edmonton.
Minnesota got on the board first when Antti Miettinen took a pass from Andrew Brunette and scored on a wrist shot.
The Oilers would come back in the 2nd period and tie the game on a Power Play goal by Dustin Penner. Edmonton would take their first lead nearly six minutes later on a slap shot by Tom Gilbert.
Minnesota would tie the game up at the fourteen minute mark when Mikko Koivu scored on a beautiful feed from Cullen.
Minnesota would get another power play six seconds after that goal and would score again on a wrist shot by Koivu.
In the 3rd period Cullen would get his first goal as a member of the Wild on a shot from the point that deflected in off an Oilers skate.
It was the 4th power play goal from the Wild and gave them a 4-2 lead which would end up being the final.
A couple observations from last night.
1. Their power play was excellent scoring all four goals and going four for six on the night
2. Just as important was their penalty kill. The Wild took four penalties in the 1st period and were ale to kill off all four of them. The Oilers did eventually score a power play goal in the 2nd but the penalty kill effort is what kept Minnesota in the game.
3. Matt Cullen played in his first home game in Minnesota since he played for St. Cloud State. I thought he was the best player on he ice for the Wild and his play from the point should make the power play better this year for Minnesota. Cullen may be the Wild's best free agent acquisition since Brian Rolston.
4. Marek Zidlicky made his season debut after missing the 1st two games in Finland with a groin injury. Having Cullen playing on the point this year should take some pressure off Zidlicky and he should be better this season.
5. How important was last night's win? With the win the Wild are now a point out of first place in the division.
Yes I know there are still 78 more games to play but Edmonton came in winning their first two games of the season. A win last night would have given the Oilers a five point lead over the Wild in the division.
A five point lead isn't hard to overcome this early in the season but coming off a pretty poor preseason there was a sense of urgency in the Wild locker room last night.
You can't clinch a playoff berth in October but you can easily lose one. The Wild have five of their next seven games at home. The Wild need to take advantage of the schedule. The next home game is against Columbus on Saturday. Let's see if the momentum will carry over.
Thanks for reading & enjoy the hockey.
Thursday, October 14, 2010
Opening Night
Well the day has finally arrived. A little over six months since the Minnesota Wild closed out the 2009-2010 season against Dallas they return to Xcel for the home opener tonight against Edmonton.
Yes technically the Wild had their "home opener" last Thursday in Helsinki but it's not really a home opener until it takes place in front of the team of 18,000.
And in the history of the Minnesota Wild they have done pretty well in home openers with a record of 8-0-1. With the 10th home opener taking place tonight let's take a look back at their previous openers at Xcel.
2000: Minnesota vs. Philadelphia
The NHL finally returns to Minnesota after a seven year absence with Minnesota taking on Philadelphia. Richfield's Darby Hendrickson scored the 1st regular season goal for the Wild at Xcel tying the game after one period at 1-1.
Minnesota would take the lead twice in the game on goals by Marian Gaborik (Power Play) & Wes Walz (Short-handed) only to have the Flyers rally to tie the game each time. The game would end in a 3-3 tie with Minnesota earning their 1st point in the NHL.
2001: Minnesota vs Boston
Stacy Roest scores two goals for the Wild and Manny Fernandez had 35 saves in leading Minnesota to a 2-1 win over Boston. It is the 1st win of the season for the Wild.
2002: Minnesota vs. Boston
After starting their 1st two seasons on the road the Wild finally start a NHL season on home ice and the Wild give their fans something to cheer about as they defeat the Boston Bruins 5-1.
Andrew Brunette & Sergei Zholtok each had a goal and an assist and Pierre Marc Bouchard registered his 1st point in the NHL with an assist. This game was the start of an 8-1-2 mark in October that led to the team 1st ever playoff berth.
2003: Minnesota vs. New York
Opening their season without their top three scorers from 2002-2003 the Wild received timely goals from Pierre Marc Bouchard, Matt Johnson & Brad Bombadir to lead the Wild past the Rangers 5-3. Manny Fernandez had 25 saves in the win for the Wild and Sergei Zholtok added three assists.
2005: Minnesota vs. Calgary
After a year away due to a lockout the NHL returned and Minnesota defeated the defending Western Conference Champion, Calgary Flames by a score of 6-3.
Marc Chouinard scored a hat-trick for the Wild while Todd White scored a goal & two assist and Pierre Marc Bouchard added three assists as well in the win. Dwayne Roloson had 28 saves in the win.
2006: Minnesota vs. Colorado
It took more than 60 minutes but Minnesota won their 6th home opener in a row with a 3-2 win over Colorado. Todd White scored the game winning goal a minute into the overtime.
Marian Gaborik & Branko Radivojevic each had a goal & an assist in the win for Minnesota. Manny Fernandez had 29 saves in the win.
2007: Minnesota vs. Chicago
Pierre Marc Bouchard scored the only goal of the game at 4:47 of the 2nd period and Niklas Backstrom stopped all 27 shots he faced in leading the Wild to a win over Chicago 1-0. It is the 1st shutout in a home opener for the Wild.
2008: Minnesota vs. Boston
The Wild continue their mastery over the Bruins with a 4-3 win over Boston. Eric Belanger had two goals including the game winner at 12:28 of the 2nd period. Mikko Koivu added two assist and Niklas Backstrom withstood a late charge from Boston in the 3rd period stopping 34 of 37 shots in the win for Minnesota.
2009: Minnesota vs. Anaheim
The Wild rally from three goals down with 14 minutes to play in the 3rd period on goals by Mikko Koivu, Petr Sykora & Eric Belanger to force overtime.
In the overtime Andrew Brunette scored at the 3:08 mark on a Power Play to give Minnesota a 4-3 win over the Ducks and Todd Richards his 1st win as the head coach of the Minnesota Wild.
Martin Havlat had three assist in his 1st home game for the Wild and Niklas Backstrom finished the night with 16 saves.
So as you can see throughout the first nine seasons the home opener has been pretty good for Minnesota. The Edmonton Oilers come to town for tonight's home opener and while they had the worst record in the NHL last season this shouldn't be considered a lock for the Wild.
Minnesota has had their struggles as well and while a win tonight won't silence the negativity that surrounds this team it will give the fans something to feel good about.
Who knows, maybe another home opening win may be the spark the Wild need.
Puck drop is at 7:30 tonight. I plan on being back tomorrow with a recap of the opener. until then thanks for reading & enjoy the hockey.
Yes technically the Wild had their "home opener" last Thursday in Helsinki but it's not really a home opener until it takes place in front of the team of 18,000.
And in the history of the Minnesota Wild they have done pretty well in home openers with a record of 8-0-1. With the 10th home opener taking place tonight let's take a look back at their previous openers at Xcel.
2000: Minnesota vs. Philadelphia
The NHL finally returns to Minnesota after a seven year absence with Minnesota taking on Philadelphia. Richfield's Darby Hendrickson scored the 1st regular season goal for the Wild at Xcel tying the game after one period at 1-1.
Minnesota would take the lead twice in the game on goals by Marian Gaborik (Power Play) & Wes Walz (Short-handed) only to have the Flyers rally to tie the game each time. The game would end in a 3-3 tie with Minnesota earning their 1st point in the NHL.
2001: Minnesota vs Boston
Stacy Roest scores two goals for the Wild and Manny Fernandez had 35 saves in leading Minnesota to a 2-1 win over Boston. It is the 1st win of the season for the Wild.
2002: Minnesota vs. Boston
After starting their 1st two seasons on the road the Wild finally start a NHL season on home ice and the Wild give their fans something to cheer about as they defeat the Boston Bruins 5-1.
Andrew Brunette & Sergei Zholtok each had a goal and an assist and Pierre Marc Bouchard registered his 1st point in the NHL with an assist. This game was the start of an 8-1-2 mark in October that led to the team 1st ever playoff berth.
2003: Minnesota vs. New York
Opening their season without their top three scorers from 2002-2003 the Wild received timely goals from Pierre Marc Bouchard, Matt Johnson & Brad Bombadir to lead the Wild past the Rangers 5-3. Manny Fernandez had 25 saves in the win for the Wild and Sergei Zholtok added three assists.
2005: Minnesota vs. Calgary
After a year away due to a lockout the NHL returned and Minnesota defeated the defending Western Conference Champion, Calgary Flames by a score of 6-3.
Marc Chouinard scored a hat-trick for the Wild while Todd White scored a goal & two assist and Pierre Marc Bouchard added three assists as well in the win. Dwayne Roloson had 28 saves in the win.
2006: Minnesota vs. Colorado
It took more than 60 minutes but Minnesota won their 6th home opener in a row with a 3-2 win over Colorado. Todd White scored the game winning goal a minute into the overtime.
Marian Gaborik & Branko Radivojevic each had a goal & an assist in the win for Minnesota. Manny Fernandez had 29 saves in the win.
2007: Minnesota vs. Chicago
Pierre Marc Bouchard scored the only goal of the game at 4:47 of the 2nd period and Niklas Backstrom stopped all 27 shots he faced in leading the Wild to a win over Chicago 1-0. It is the 1st shutout in a home opener for the Wild.
2008: Minnesota vs. Boston
The Wild continue their mastery over the Bruins with a 4-3 win over Boston. Eric Belanger had two goals including the game winner at 12:28 of the 2nd period. Mikko Koivu added two assist and Niklas Backstrom withstood a late charge from Boston in the 3rd period stopping 34 of 37 shots in the win for Minnesota.
2009: Minnesota vs. Anaheim
The Wild rally from three goals down with 14 minutes to play in the 3rd period on goals by Mikko Koivu, Petr Sykora & Eric Belanger to force overtime.
In the overtime Andrew Brunette scored at the 3:08 mark on a Power Play to give Minnesota a 4-3 win over the Ducks and Todd Richards his 1st win as the head coach of the Minnesota Wild.
Martin Havlat had three assist in his 1st home game for the Wild and Niklas Backstrom finished the night with 16 saves.
So as you can see throughout the first nine seasons the home opener has been pretty good for Minnesota. The Edmonton Oilers come to town for tonight's home opener and while they had the worst record in the NHL last season this shouldn't be considered a lock for the Wild.
Minnesota has had their struggles as well and while a win tonight won't silence the negativity that surrounds this team it will give the fans something to feel good about.
Who knows, maybe another home opening win may be the spark the Wild need.
Puck drop is at 7:30 tonight. I plan on being back tomorrow with a recap of the opener. until then thanks for reading & enjoy the hockey.
Wednesday, October 6, 2010
2010-2011 NHL Predictions
With the puck about to drop on the 93rd season of NHL hockey we finish up the season previews with my predictions as to who will walk away with the Stanley Cup and all the other major awards.
If you read my division previews you have an idea of who I think will be in the post-season and who I think has a great chance to become Stanley Cup Champions. If you missed a preview you can click on the links to check out what I wrote about each division.
Without further adieu, Here are my predictions.
Eastern Conference:
Atlantic Division Winner:
Pittsburgh Penguins- Crosby & Malkin continues to be the best 1-2 punch in the NHL in leading the Penguins to their 3rd division title in four years and the number one seed in the Eastern Conference
Northeast Division Winner:
Buffalo Sabres- Ryan Miller in goal is good enough to keep Buffalo on top of this Division and a number three seed in the East.
Southeast Division Winner:
Washington Capitals- The Division is slowly improving but with Alex Ovechkin the Capitals remain the class of the Southeast. Number two seed in the East
Next Five in the East: New Jersey, Philadelphia, Boston, Carolina & Tampa Bay.
The rest of the East: NY Rangers, Montreal, Atlanta, Ottawa, Toronto, NY Islanders, Florida
Western Conference:
Central Division Winner:
Detroit Red Wings- A healthy roster plus numerous player departures in Chicago return the Wings to the top of the division and a number two seed in the East.
Northwest Division Winner:
Vancouver Canucks- Talented roster plus a weak division gives the Canucks their 1st President's Trophy & the number one seed in the West.
Pacific Division Winner:
Los Angeles Kings- A young and up-coming roster takes it's next step and wins their 1st division title since 1990-91 and gets the three seed in the West.
Next five in the West: San Jose, Chicago, St. Louis, Nashville, Minnesota.
The Rest of the West: Calgary, Phoenix, Anaheim, Colorado, Dallas, Edmonton Columbus.
Prince of Wales Trophy Winner:
Washington- Capitals outlast the Penguins in a tough seven game series to reach their 1st Stanley Cup Final since 1998.
Clarence Campbell Bowl Winner:
Vancouver- Canucks defeat Los Angeles in six games for the 2nd year in a row to reach their 1st Stanley Cup Final since 1994
Stanley Cup Champions:
Vancouver- Canucks beat the Capitals in a high scoring six game series allowing the Cup to return to Canada for the 1st time since 1993.
Conn Smythe Award:
Henrik Sedin- Last season's MVP continues his brilliant play and takes home the Conn Smythe as playoff MVP.
Other Awards:
Hart Trophy (MVP)- Sidney Crosby, Pittsburgh
Norris Trophy (Best Defenseman)- Drew Doughty, Los Angeles
Vezina Trophy (Goalie)- Ryan Miller, Buffalo
Calder Trophy (Top Rookie)- Tyler Seguin, F Boston
Jack Adams (Top Coach)- Barry Trotz- Nashville
1st coach fired: John Tortorella, NY Rangers
These are my predictions as we start the season. If you disagree with anything I wrote please feel free to leave a comment. Thanks for reading & enjoy the hockey
If you read my division previews you have an idea of who I think will be in the post-season and who I think has a great chance to become Stanley Cup Champions. If you missed a preview you can click on the links to check out what I wrote about each division.
Without further adieu, Here are my predictions.
Eastern Conference:
Atlantic Division Winner:
Pittsburgh Penguins- Crosby & Malkin continues to be the best 1-2 punch in the NHL in leading the Penguins to their 3rd division title in four years and the number one seed in the Eastern Conference
Northeast Division Winner:
Buffalo Sabres- Ryan Miller in goal is good enough to keep Buffalo on top of this Division and a number three seed in the East.
Southeast Division Winner:
Washington Capitals- The Division is slowly improving but with Alex Ovechkin the Capitals remain the class of the Southeast. Number two seed in the East
Next Five in the East: New Jersey, Philadelphia, Boston, Carolina & Tampa Bay.
The rest of the East: NY Rangers, Montreal, Atlanta, Ottawa, Toronto, NY Islanders, Florida
Western Conference:
Central Division Winner:
Detroit Red Wings- A healthy roster plus numerous player departures in Chicago return the Wings to the top of the division and a number two seed in the East.
Northwest Division Winner:
Vancouver Canucks- Talented roster plus a weak division gives the Canucks their 1st President's Trophy & the number one seed in the West.
Pacific Division Winner:
Los Angeles Kings- A young and up-coming roster takes it's next step and wins their 1st division title since 1990-91 and gets the three seed in the West.
Next five in the West: San Jose, Chicago, St. Louis, Nashville, Minnesota.
The Rest of the West: Calgary, Phoenix, Anaheim, Colorado, Dallas, Edmonton Columbus.
Washington- Capitals outlast the Penguins in a tough seven game series to reach their 1st Stanley Cup Final since 1998.
Vancouver- Canucks defeat Los Angeles in six games for the 2nd year in a row to reach their 1st Stanley Cup Final since 1994
Vancouver- Canucks beat the Capitals in a high scoring six game series allowing the Cup to return to Canada for the 1st time since 1993.
Henrik Sedin- Last season's MVP continues his brilliant play and takes home the Conn Smythe as playoff MVP.
Other Awards:
Hart Trophy (MVP)- Sidney Crosby, Pittsburgh
Norris Trophy (Best Defenseman)- Drew Doughty, Los Angeles
Vezina Trophy (Goalie)- Ryan Miller, Buffalo
Calder Trophy (Top Rookie)- Tyler Seguin, F Boston
Jack Adams (Top Coach)- Barry Trotz- Nashville
1st coach fired: John Tortorella, NY Rangers
These are my predictions as we start the season. If you disagree with anything I wrote please feel free to leave a comment. Thanks for reading & enjoy the hockey
Sunday, October 3, 2010
Pacific Division Preview
As we conclude our division previews we end out west with the Pacific Division.
Last year we saw San Jose exercise some demons to reach the Western Conference Finals. Yes they got swept by Chicago but compared to the last couple seasons progress is being made.
Last year also saw the return of the Los Angeles Kings to the playoffs. They lost in the 1st round but their roster is similar to where Chicago was a couple years ago.
Phoenix surprised everyone by clinching home ice in the 1st round while Anaheim & Dallas both were absent from the playoffs.
Does this division still belong to San Jose or are the Kings ready to take over? Is Phoenix a one year wonder? Will Anaheim & Dallas return to the playoffs? Let's break it down
Los Angeles Kings
Last Season: 46-27-9 101 points. Lost in 1st Round to Vancouver
New Additions:
Alexei Ponikarovsky, RW (Pittsburgh) Willie Mitchell, D (Vancouver)
Subtractions:
Sean O' Donnell, D (Philadelphia) Alexander Frolov, LW (NY Rangers) Fredrik Modin, LW (Atlanta) Jeff Halpern, C (Montreal)
Why They'll Succeed:
Their core of young talent. The Kings were in rebuilding mode since the lockout until last season when they clinched their 1st playoff berth since 2002.
Led by Drew Doughty & Jack Johnson on the blueline you will not find a better pair of young defenseman in the NHL anywhere else except maybe in Chicago. Mix in veterans Rob Scuderi & Willie Mitchell and you have a top four that can shut down any teams scoring line.
Jonathan Quick had a breakout season in goal winning 39 games and having a Goals Against Average of 2.54. Kings fans are hoping last season wasn't a fluke and even if it is they have another good young goaltender waiting in the wings in Johnathan Bernier.
Why They'll Fail:
They are still missing a sniper. Kings GM Dean Lombardi made a strong push for Ilya Kovalchuk this summer only to see him eventually re-sign with New Jersey.
Ponikarovsky was brought in to replace Frolov on the wing. When you bring in a guy who averages nearly 12 goals a season to replace a guy who averages 24 goals a season it isn't nearly much of an upgrade.
Anze Kopitar led the Kings with 34 goals and will be expected to do so once again. Dustin Brown & Ryan Smith both reached the 20 goal mark and will be under more pressure to help pick up the scoring slack with the departure of Frolov.
Playoff Team:
I really like the core of this team and I think they are one player away from being a serious cup contender. Their defense is the best in the division and their goaltending is just as good as San Jose. I like the Kings to win their 1st division title since the 1990-1991 season.
San Jose Sharks
Last Season: 51-20-11 113 points Lost in Conference Finals to Chicago.
New Additions:
Antti Niemi, G (San Jose) Antero Nittymaki, G (Tampa Bay) Jamal Mayers, F (Calgary)
Subtractions:
Evgeni Nabokov, G (KHL) Manny Maholtra, C (Vancouver) Rob Blake, D (Retired)
Why They'll Succeed:
The two most constants for the Sharks playoff failures were Patrick Marleau & Evgeni Nabokov.
Last season Marleau was removed as captain of the Sharks. He responded by scoring a career high 44 goals in the regular season and finished with 83 points on the season. In the playoffs he had 8 goals in 14 playoff games.
Nabokov won 44 games in net and had a Goals Against Average of 2.43 in the regular season but was once again outplayed in the playoffs 1st by Craig Anderson of Colorado and then Antti Niemi of Chicago
Sharks GM Doug Wilson decided to let Nabokov go as a free agent this season and brought in Nittymaki to replace him in net. Later that summer Niemi became a free agent & Wilson brought him in to compete with Nittymaki. The additions of these two goaltenders plus the departure of Nabokov should make the Sharks better in net.
Marleau's decision to not test the free agent waters keep the Sharks strong up front as he is paired with Joe Thornton & Dany Heatley.
Joe Pavelski had his coming out party last year scoring 9 goals in 15 playoff games. Ryan Clowe & Devon Setogucchi make up the wings on the second line. Also keep an eye on Forward Logan Couture. He looks ready to make the leap.
Why They'll Fail:
As much as I like the additions of Niemi & Nittymaki to replace Nabokov there is still some questions around their play in goal.
Nittymaki has played well in tandems in Philadelphia & Tampa Bay and yet has never been able to claim the number one job as his own.
Niemi joins him in San Jose fresh off a Stanley Cup win but will not have as good as group of defenseman in front of him like he did in Chicago.
Speaking of defenseman, Rob Blake's departure leaves a void on the blueline. Dan Boyle will fill Blake's role on defense while Jason Demars is expected to be paired up with Boyle.
Playoff Team:
There is still a lot of talent on this team and another post-season berth is likely. Whether they can finally get over the hump and reach the Stanley Cup Finals remains to be seen. I won't believe it until I see it and yet if they make it there I won't be surprised.
Anaheim Ducks
Last Season: 39-32-11 89 points Did Not Qualify
New Additions:
Toni Lydman, D (Buffalo) Andy Sutton, D Ottawa Aaron Voros, RW (NY Rangers)
Subtractions:
Scott Niedermeyer, D (Retired) James Wisniewski, D (NY Islanders) Steve Eminger, D (NY Rangers) Mike Brown, F (Toronto)
Why They'll Succeed;
Their top line consists of Bobby Ryan (35 goals) Corey Perry (27 goals) Ryan Getzlaf (19 goals). Add Saku Koivu (19 goals) & Teemu Selanne (27 goals) and putting the puck in the back of the net shouldn't be an issue for the Ducks.
Why They'll Fail:
Keeping the puck out of the back of the net may be however. Niedemeyer's retirement ends a great era of Ducks defenseman on the blueline that consisted of Niedermeyer, Chris Pronger & Francois Beauchemin.
Along with new addition Sutton & Lydman the blueline will consist of Lubomir Visnovsky & Luca Sbisa. I think it's safe to say we will find out if Jonas Hiller is actually a pretty good goalie or if he just benefited from having good defenseman in front of him.
Playoff Team:
Last season the Ducks missed the playoffs for the 1st time since the lockout as the departures of Pronger & Beauchemin were never properly replaced. As i write this they still haven't been and now Anaheim has to deal will Niedermeyer being gone.
They are hoping that Sbisa & Cam Fowler can develop and become the next generation of shutdown defensemen. I believe they will eventually but it won't happen this season as the Ducks will be sitting at home this spring.
Phoenix Coyotes
Last Season: 50-25-7 107 points. Lost in 1st Round to Detroit
New Additions:
Raw Whitney, LW (Carolina) Eric Belanger, C (Washington)
Subtractions:
Zybnek Michalek, D (Pittsburgh) Jim Vandemeer, D (Edmonton) Mathieu Schneider, D (Free Agent) Robert Lang, C (Free Agent)
Why They'll Succeed:
They have the best coach in the division in Dave Tippett. When he was with Dallas he led the Stars to the playoffs five times in six years. When he came into Phoenix last fall there weren't a lot of expectations. Instead he led the Coyotes to 50 wins & 107 points which is their best showing since moving to the desert from Winnipeg in 1996.
The addition of Whitney (21 goals) gives the Coyotes top line another scoring threat to go with Shane Doan (18 goals) while Keith Yandle looks to improve on his 12 goal/41 point season and fill the void of Michalek on the blueline. Veterans Ed Jovonovski & Adrian Aucoin remain key players on the blueline for Phoenix
Ilya Bryzgalov came aboard in 2007 and won 42 games last season for the Coyotes. His play in net was a main factor in Phoenix clinching their 1st playoff berth since 2002.
Why They'll Fail:
Was last season a mirage? Sure the Coyotes are well coached but I watched them twice in person last season and I have a hard time finding one thing they do better than any other team in the Western Conference.
They outworked a lot of teams to get to the playoffs with most of their points coming in overtime/shootout. They can't expect that to happen again.
I like the addition of Eric Belanger at Center. I would like it a lot more if he had a couple wings to pass the puck to. If Phoenix is expecting him to score then they are in for a disappointment.
Playoff Team:
After being picked to finish dead last in the Western Conference last year they surprised a lot of people by making the playoffs. They won't surprised a lot of teams this season.
The Coyotes are an improved franchise but I think their division is too tough and Phoenix will finish 4th in the pacific.
Dallas Stars
Last Season: 37-31-14 88 points Did Not Qualify
New Additions:
Brad Lukowich, D (Vancouver) Andrew Raycroft, G (Vancouver) Adam Burish, F (Chicago)
Subtractions:
Marty Turco, G (Chicago) Jere Lehtinen, RW (Free Agent) Mike Modano, C (Detroit)
Why They'll Succeed:
Mike Modano departs after 20 seasons with the franchise leaving Brendan Morrow & Brad Richards to fill his leadership void. Morrow has been the captain since 2006-2007 but it always felt like Modano's team. It will be up to those two to help guide the younger players this season.
Why They'll Fail:
Their defense ranked 23rd in the league last season & their core returns for another season. The group of Trevor Daley, mark Fistric, Nicklas Grossman, & Matt Niskanen are still developing. Dallas is hoping their play will continue this season.
In goal Kari Lehtonen replaces Marty Turco. Anyone who knows me knows I'm not a big Turco fan but his play in net was good enough to get Dallas to the playoffs during most of his tenure.
Lehtonen has underachieved throughout most of his career and has never experienced any success in the post-season. combine that with a young defense core and growing pains are to be expected.
Playoff Team:
Looking at the Dallas stars roster it's hard to believe that this team was in the Conference finals in 2008. Ownership issues have caused some turnover on the roster. The departure of Modano means the Stars are in a rebuilding mode.
The young players on the roster are going to get their opportunity to show that they are part of the future this season. However, when that is the case the playoffs seem like a pipe dream. Dallas will finish last in the Pacific this season.
Last year we saw San Jose exercise some demons to reach the Western Conference Finals. Yes they got swept by Chicago but compared to the last couple seasons progress is being made.
Last year also saw the return of the Los Angeles Kings to the playoffs. They lost in the 1st round but their roster is similar to where Chicago was a couple years ago.
Phoenix surprised everyone by clinching home ice in the 1st round while Anaheim & Dallas both were absent from the playoffs.
Does this division still belong to San Jose or are the Kings ready to take over? Is Phoenix a one year wonder? Will Anaheim & Dallas return to the playoffs? Let's break it down
Los Angeles Kings
Last Season: 46-27-9 101 points. Lost in 1st Round to Vancouver
New Additions:
Alexei Ponikarovsky, RW (Pittsburgh) Willie Mitchell, D (Vancouver)
Subtractions:
Sean O' Donnell, D (Philadelphia) Alexander Frolov, LW (NY Rangers) Fredrik Modin, LW (Atlanta) Jeff Halpern, C (Montreal)
Why They'll Succeed:
Their core of young talent. The Kings were in rebuilding mode since the lockout until last season when they clinched their 1st playoff berth since 2002.
Led by Drew Doughty & Jack Johnson on the blueline you will not find a better pair of young defenseman in the NHL anywhere else except maybe in Chicago. Mix in veterans Rob Scuderi & Willie Mitchell and you have a top four that can shut down any teams scoring line.
Jonathan Quick had a breakout season in goal winning 39 games and having a Goals Against Average of 2.54. Kings fans are hoping last season wasn't a fluke and even if it is they have another good young goaltender waiting in the wings in Johnathan Bernier.
Why They'll Fail:
They are still missing a sniper. Kings GM Dean Lombardi made a strong push for Ilya Kovalchuk this summer only to see him eventually re-sign with New Jersey.
Ponikarovsky was brought in to replace Frolov on the wing. When you bring in a guy who averages nearly 12 goals a season to replace a guy who averages 24 goals a season it isn't nearly much of an upgrade.
Anze Kopitar led the Kings with 34 goals and will be expected to do so once again. Dustin Brown & Ryan Smith both reached the 20 goal mark and will be under more pressure to help pick up the scoring slack with the departure of Frolov.
Playoff Team:
I really like the core of this team and I think they are one player away from being a serious cup contender. Their defense is the best in the division and their goaltending is just as good as San Jose. I like the Kings to win their 1st division title since the 1990-1991 season.
San Jose Sharks
Last Season: 51-20-11 113 points Lost in Conference Finals to Chicago.
New Additions:
Antti Niemi, G (San Jose) Antero Nittymaki, G (Tampa Bay) Jamal Mayers, F (Calgary)
Subtractions:
Evgeni Nabokov, G (KHL) Manny Maholtra, C (Vancouver) Rob Blake, D (Retired)
Why They'll Succeed:
The two most constants for the Sharks playoff failures were Patrick Marleau & Evgeni Nabokov.
Last season Marleau was removed as captain of the Sharks. He responded by scoring a career high 44 goals in the regular season and finished with 83 points on the season. In the playoffs he had 8 goals in 14 playoff games.
Nabokov won 44 games in net and had a Goals Against Average of 2.43 in the regular season but was once again outplayed in the playoffs 1st by Craig Anderson of Colorado and then Antti Niemi of Chicago
Sharks GM Doug Wilson decided to let Nabokov go as a free agent this season and brought in Nittymaki to replace him in net. Later that summer Niemi became a free agent & Wilson brought him in to compete with Nittymaki. The additions of these two goaltenders plus the departure of Nabokov should make the Sharks better in net.
Marleau's decision to not test the free agent waters keep the Sharks strong up front as he is paired with Joe Thornton & Dany Heatley.
Joe Pavelski had his coming out party last year scoring 9 goals in 15 playoff games. Ryan Clowe & Devon Setogucchi make up the wings on the second line. Also keep an eye on Forward Logan Couture. He looks ready to make the leap.
Why They'll Fail:
As much as I like the additions of Niemi & Nittymaki to replace Nabokov there is still some questions around their play in goal.
Nittymaki has played well in tandems in Philadelphia & Tampa Bay and yet has never been able to claim the number one job as his own.
Niemi joins him in San Jose fresh off a Stanley Cup win but will not have as good as group of defenseman in front of him like he did in Chicago.
Speaking of defenseman, Rob Blake's departure leaves a void on the blueline. Dan Boyle will fill Blake's role on defense while Jason Demars is expected to be paired up with Boyle.
Playoff Team:
There is still a lot of talent on this team and another post-season berth is likely. Whether they can finally get over the hump and reach the Stanley Cup Finals remains to be seen. I won't believe it until I see it and yet if they make it there I won't be surprised.
Anaheim Ducks
Last Season: 39-32-11 89 points Did Not Qualify
New Additions:
Toni Lydman, D (Buffalo) Andy Sutton, D Ottawa Aaron Voros, RW (NY Rangers)
Subtractions:
Scott Niedermeyer, D (Retired) James Wisniewski, D (NY Islanders) Steve Eminger, D (NY Rangers) Mike Brown, F (Toronto)
Why They'll Succeed;
Their top line consists of Bobby Ryan (35 goals) Corey Perry (27 goals) Ryan Getzlaf (19 goals). Add Saku Koivu (19 goals) & Teemu Selanne (27 goals) and putting the puck in the back of the net shouldn't be an issue for the Ducks.
Why They'll Fail:
Keeping the puck out of the back of the net may be however. Niedemeyer's retirement ends a great era of Ducks defenseman on the blueline that consisted of Niedermeyer, Chris Pronger & Francois Beauchemin.
Along with new addition Sutton & Lydman the blueline will consist of Lubomir Visnovsky & Luca Sbisa. I think it's safe to say we will find out if Jonas Hiller is actually a pretty good goalie or if he just benefited from having good defenseman in front of him.
Playoff Team:
Last season the Ducks missed the playoffs for the 1st time since the lockout as the departures of Pronger & Beauchemin were never properly replaced. As i write this they still haven't been and now Anaheim has to deal will Niedermeyer being gone.
They are hoping that Sbisa & Cam Fowler can develop and become the next generation of shutdown defensemen. I believe they will eventually but it won't happen this season as the Ducks will be sitting at home this spring.
Phoenix Coyotes
Last Season: 50-25-7 107 points. Lost in 1st Round to Detroit
New Additions:
Raw Whitney, LW (Carolina) Eric Belanger, C (Washington)
Subtractions:
Zybnek Michalek, D (Pittsburgh) Jim Vandemeer, D (Edmonton) Mathieu Schneider, D (Free Agent) Robert Lang, C (Free Agent)
Why They'll Succeed:
They have the best coach in the division in Dave Tippett. When he was with Dallas he led the Stars to the playoffs five times in six years. When he came into Phoenix last fall there weren't a lot of expectations. Instead he led the Coyotes to 50 wins & 107 points which is their best showing since moving to the desert from Winnipeg in 1996.
The addition of Whitney (21 goals) gives the Coyotes top line another scoring threat to go with Shane Doan (18 goals) while Keith Yandle looks to improve on his 12 goal/41 point season and fill the void of Michalek on the blueline. Veterans Ed Jovonovski & Adrian Aucoin remain key players on the blueline for Phoenix
Ilya Bryzgalov came aboard in 2007 and won 42 games last season for the Coyotes. His play in net was a main factor in Phoenix clinching their 1st playoff berth since 2002.
Why They'll Fail:
Was last season a mirage? Sure the Coyotes are well coached but I watched them twice in person last season and I have a hard time finding one thing they do better than any other team in the Western Conference.
They outworked a lot of teams to get to the playoffs with most of their points coming in overtime/shootout. They can't expect that to happen again.
I like the addition of Eric Belanger at Center. I would like it a lot more if he had a couple wings to pass the puck to. If Phoenix is expecting him to score then they are in for a disappointment.
Playoff Team:
After being picked to finish dead last in the Western Conference last year they surprised a lot of people by making the playoffs. They won't surprised a lot of teams this season.
The Coyotes are an improved franchise but I think their division is too tough and Phoenix will finish 4th in the pacific.
Dallas Stars
Last Season: 37-31-14 88 points Did Not Qualify
New Additions:
Brad Lukowich, D (Vancouver) Andrew Raycroft, G (Vancouver) Adam Burish, F (Chicago)
Subtractions:
Marty Turco, G (Chicago) Jere Lehtinen, RW (Free Agent) Mike Modano, C (Detroit)
Why They'll Succeed:
Dallas ranked 11th in the NHL in scoring last season with six forwards reaching the 20 goal mark. One of the forwards to watch is Jamie Benn who had 22 goals & 41 points last season. He represents the next generation of Stars players.
Why They'll Fail:
Their defense ranked 23rd in the league last season & their core returns for another season. The group of Trevor Daley, mark Fistric, Nicklas Grossman, & Matt Niskanen are still developing. Dallas is hoping their play will continue this season.
In goal Kari Lehtonen replaces Marty Turco. Anyone who knows me knows I'm not a big Turco fan but his play in net was good enough to get Dallas to the playoffs during most of his tenure.
Lehtonen has underachieved throughout most of his career and has never experienced any success in the post-season. combine that with a young defense core and growing pains are to be expected.
Playoff Team:
Looking at the Dallas stars roster it's hard to believe that this team was in the Conference finals in 2008. Ownership issues have caused some turnover on the roster. The departure of Modano means the Stars are in a rebuilding mode.
The young players on the roster are going to get their opportunity to show that they are part of the future this season. However, when that is the case the playoffs seem like a pipe dream. Dallas will finish last in the Pacific this season.
Saturday, October 2, 2010
Northwest Division Preview
Today we take a look at the Northwest Division which when you compare it to all the other divisions may be the weakest in hockey.
Last season Vancouver won the division for the second year in the row only to lose to Chicago in the 2nd round for the second year in a row.
Colorado, who was picked to finish 14th in the Western Conference surprised everyone by clinching the final playoff in the West.
Minnesota was in transition, got of to a bad start and missed the playoffs.
Calgary's window started to close as the Flames missed the playoffs for the 1st time in five season & Edmonton finished dead last in the league making their 2006 cup run seem it was 24 years instead of four years ago.
So is Vancouver still the class of the division or will one of the other four teams be able to challenge them. Let's break it down.
Vancouver Canucks
Last Season: 49-28-5 103 points Lost in the 2nd Round to Chicago
New Additions:
Dan Hamhuis, D (Nashville) Keith Ballard, D (Florida) Manny Maholtra, C (San Jose) Raffi Torres, LW (Buffalo)
Subtractions:
Willie Mitchell, D (Los Angeles) Michal Grabner, LW (Florida) Steve Bernier, RW (Florida) Kyle Wellwood, C (Phoenix) Andrew Raycroft, G (Dallas) Pavol Demitra, LW (KHL)
Why They'll Succeed:
Did you know that the only team to score more goals last season than Vancouver was Washington? Yeah, neither did I. The fact alone is reason enough to think Vancouver will be successful.
Henrik Sedin scored 112 points last season to win his 1st Art Ross Trophy. That led to him winning the Hart Trophy as league MVP. Twin brother Daniel was second on the team with 85 points
Alexander Burrows & Mikael Samuelsson both reached the 30 goal mark (35 for Burrows, 30 for Samuelsson) & Ryan Kesler (The next captain of the Canucks if it was up to me)was 3rd on the team with 75 points.
The additions of Hamhuis & Balalrd on the blueline should make up for the loss of Willie Mitchell who missed most of last season due to a concussion.
Why They'll Fail:
Despite what Roberto Luongo has accomplished in goal there are still question marks surrounding him.
He has proven he can be a clutch player when it comes to international play leading Canada to the Gold Medal in the Winter Olympics.
In the Stanley Cup Playoffs though he has yet to make it past the 2nd round losing to Anaheim in 2007 and Chicago the last two seasons. Earlier this summer he gave up being captain of the team hoping it will take some pressure off of him.
We are waiting him to take the next step in becoming an elite goaltender. Right now he is close to being into Marty Turco territory.
Playoff Team:
They are the most talented team in the Northwest and should easily win the division.The knock against Vancouver is that if you jump on them quickly they will fold like a cheap tent.
Yet I look at this team and I don't see any weaknesses in terms of skill. I think they can make a deep run in the playoffs and is the best bet for the Cup to return to Canada.
Minnesota Wild
Last Season: 38-36-8 84 Points Did Not Qualify
New Additions: Matt Cullen, C (Ottawa) John Madden, C (Chicago) Eric Nystrom, RW (Calgary) Brad Staubitz, LW (San Jose)
Subtractions:
John Scott, D (Chicago) Derek Boogaard, RW (NY Rangers) Andrew Ebbett, C (Phoenix) Owen Nolan, RW (Free Agent)
Why They'll Succeed:
Another season under coach Todd Richards should make things easier than last season. When Richards took over last year he tried implementing an offensive system on a team that was known for their defense. The early result was a 3-9 start that put Minnesota behind the 8 ball one month into the season.
The Wild did play better as the season went along but never were able to get in position to challenge for a playoff spot in the West.
The additions of Cullen & Madden gives the Wild four quality centers which is something a lot of team can not say.
Why They'll Fail:
Martin Havlat was brought in from Chicago and was expected to replace Gaborik as their top goal scorer. Havlat only scored 18 goals which was good enough for 5th on the team. He has to be better for them this season.
I like their group of defenseman on paper but on the ice I feel I should be getting more when watching them play.
Brent Burns has taken a step back from where he was a couple years ago since his concussion. Cam Barker looked lost at times since coming over from Chicago. And as much I liked to rip on Kim Johnsson the transition game wasn't the same after he was traded to Chicago.
The loss of Josh Harding to an injury put more pressure on Niklas Backstrom to be solid this season. Last year you could throw Harding out there to give Backstrom a night off. Now with Harding hurt & no proven backup on their roster Backstrom will be getting most of the work. He will have to be sharp.
Playoff Team:
If you have watched them this pre-season they haven't looked pretty good. Yet I look at them on paper and I see a roster of players that should be better.
After two games in Finland with Carolina, Minnesota plays 6 of their next 8 games at home. A quick start is essential if they want to make the playoffs.
Playing in the Northwest Division should help their cause. If they can finish in 2nd place that should be good enough for a post-season berth. If not it will be just another spring in the State of Hockey.
Colorado Avalanche
Last Season: 43-30-9 95 Points Lost in 1st Round to San Jose
New Additions:
Daniel Winnik, F (Phoenix)
Subtractions:
Ruslan Salei, D (Detroit) Brett Clark, D (Tampa Bay) Chris Durno, D (Tampa Bay) Darcy Tucker, LW (Free Agent) Marek Svatos, RW (Free Agent)
Why They'll Succeed:
The kids stepped up last season. The leaders in points were Paul Statsny (20 goals 79 points) Chris Stewart 28 goals 64 points) & Matt Duchene (24 goals 55 points)
Colorado is hoping the kids would bridge the gap between the great Colorado teams when they 1st moved to Denver and the next generation of Avalanche players. After last season it looks like it could be the case.
Craig Anderson was signed to play goal and did better than anyone thought he would going 38-25-7 with a Goals Against Average of 2.63 in leading Colorado back to the post-season.
Why They'll Fail:
Last year the Avs got off to a good start allowing them to be in the playoff picture a month into the season. Everyone kept waiting for them to drop off except they never did.
This year Colorado will not be taken lightly by anybody. That reason alone will make if tough for them to return to the playoffs.
Another thing to worry about is a sophomore slump. A lot of players had career years. I'd like to see them do it for more than one season before I believe in them.
Playoff Team:
It's hard to say. Everything went their way last year in returning to the playoffs. They are in the right division to make a return to the post-season. Much like the Wild if they can finish in 2nd place they will be in the post-season. Anything lower will make the Avs a one shot deal.
Calgary Flames
Last Season: 40-32-10 90 points Did Not Qualify
New Additions:
Olli Jokinen, C (NY Rangers) Alex Tanguay, C/W (Tampa Bay)
Subtractions:
Eric Nystrom, RW (Minnesota) Chris Higgins, C (Florida) Jamal Mayes, RW (San Jose)
Why They'll Succeed:
They still have Jarome Iginla. The captain of the Flames has scored at least 30 goals the last nine seasons. The Flames are hoping the return of Tanguay can give Iginla the center he has been looking for the last couple seasons
Robin Regehr & Jay Bouwmeester anchor a blueline that lost Dion Phaneuf to a trade last February. Despite the loss of Phaneuf the duo of Bouwmeester & Regehr are good enough to match up against other teams top scorers.
Miikka Kiprusoff had a Goals Against Average of 2.31 in a season where he had his best stats since 2006. He'll have to be just as sharp if Calgary is to return to the playoffs.
Why They'll Fail:
Two words, Olli Jokinen. He is the poster boy for underachievement in the NHL. He has played in the league for 11 season and only has one post-season appearance to show for it.
He had a chance to help New York clinch a playoff berth last season only to be stoned in the shoot out by Brian Boucher. Simply put if Jokinen is on your roster you will probably have a lot of free time in the spring.
Playoff Team:
Sorry, I can't pick this team to be in the playoffs as long as Jokinen is on the roster. The highest I can see them finishing is 3rd if I am being generous. I'm not being generous here. I think 4th place in the division and another year of missing the playoffs is in the cards for Calgary.
Edmonton Oilers
Last Season: 27-47-8 62 Points Did Not Qualify
New Additions:
Kurtis Foster, D (Tampa Bay) Colin Fraser, F (Chicago) Jim Vandermeer, D (Phoenix)
Subtractions:
Mike Comrie, C (Pittsburgh) Ethan Moreau, LW (Columbus) Fernando Pisani, RW (Chicago) Patrick O' Sullivan, C (Carolina)
Why They'll Succeed:
The franchise is in the hands of the kids. Comrie, Moreau, Pisani were let go to make room for young talent like Jordan Eberle, Magnus Paajarvi & #1 draft pick Taylor Hall. Colorado did the same thing last year after finishing dead last in the Western Conference. Edmonton is hoping history will repeat itself.
Why They'll Fail:
For the same reasons I wrote above. I think this year will be a learning experience for the Oilers. This team has been trending backwards since reaching the Stanley Cup Finals in 2006. Last season they hit rock bottom.
Their defense was the worst in the NHL last year allowing 278 goals. While the Oilers do have some defenseman that can move the puck they lack a shutdown defenseman that can stop the other teams top line. They haven't had one since Chris Pronger went to Anaheim in 2006-2007.
Nikolai Khabibulin returns after missing most of last year with an injury. His presence is important if the Oilers are to have any improvement this season.
Playoff Team:
After last year the Oilers have nowhere else to go but up. The young players will have a chance to show they belong as the Oilers try to establish their core to rebuild.
Better days will be ahead for the Oil but not this season. A last place finish in the division looks likely again.
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