2013 NHL Season!!!!

[MikeThierry]

It's finally here again! I can't wait until the Blues open up in just 5 more days. What expectations do you have for your team? Do you think new league alignment will have any effect on your teams chances?


With Detroit out of the division, the path for Central champs is significantly easier for both the Blackhawks and Blues. I think those two are the cream of the crop in the newly aligned Central.

[Joseph]

Hawkey!!!

I'm not the biggest fan of the realignment, I liked the Detroit rivalry, but things change and this is just one of them.

I think the Hawks and Blues are definitely at the top of this conference/division/whatever they call it. I think Nashville will still continue to struggle to score, but they will surprise perhaps.

Looking forward to it all no matter what.

[Revering4Blue]

As a fan of both the Sabres and Hurricanes, the best that I can realistically hope for is that either team somehow manages to sneak into the playoffs. The return of Cam Ward should help the Canes immensely, though the playoffs remain a long-shot, IMO.

As for the Sabres, well, I'll never understand why Regier wasn't canned instead of/along with Ruff. It's a Loooong way back for the Blue/Gold and White.

[MikeThierry]

From a far, the Sabres seem almost nondescript. I just don't get a feel for what that team is and they just seem sort of meh.

[Sean_CaseyRules]

As a Blue Jackets fan, I am VERY excited about this new alignment, and season. I hope that we build on our second half from last year, and keep up with the scrappy play, and with as much heart as we did late last year.

[Joseph]

Recent rankings of teams most likely to win the Cup finds the Blackhawks at #1 and the Blues at #6. Tough division there indeed.

[westofyou]

Go wings, east eh? Gonna be a weird yard

[MikeThierry]

Recent rankings of teams most likely to win the Cup finds the Blackhawks at #1 and the Blues at #6. Tough division there indeed.

A lot of places I see the Blues are ranked very high. ESPN power rankings currently have Blackhawks #1 and Blues #3. I personally think the division is going to be an easier path now that Detroit is out and both teams might get more points because of it. I believe the Blues are built for the regular season but I'm still questioning what they can do during playoff time. Hopefully Schwartz and Tarasenko take it to the next level and become those reliable goal scorers that the Blues need. How will Morrow and the new additions like Roy do? That is unclear at this point. Their defense will keep them in a ton of games though in the regular season.

[Joseph]

I love watching a banner go up. It made last nights suckitude by the Reds a bit more palatable.

[Fil3232]

Excited to watch the Wings play new division foe Buffalo tonight. I think I'm excited about the realignment, but certainly will miss having Chicago in conference. Though a DET-CHI Stanley Cup some day would be amazing.

[MikeThierry]

Did you all see Roy flip out last night? I don't know how it's going to play in Colorado but certainly things won't be dull all year there:

http://espn.go.com/blog/nhl/post/_/id/26922/patrick-roy-not-mellowing-with-new-job

[Joseph]

That was something else indeed. Might be a bit much considering he was up 6-1.

[MikeThierry]

That was something else indeed. Might be a bit much considering he was up 6-1.

I kind of thought it was awesome.

[OldRightHander]

I kind of thought it was awesome.

I would say the same about the first six minutes of this game.

[Joseph]

Better the Blues than the Preds.

[OldRightHander]

Tim Thomas is going to get whiplash.

[MikeThierry]

Tim Thomas is going to get whiplash.

hahaha

Tonights game is about as perfect of a game as a NHL team can play. Even with the penalties the Blues took, they put on a clinic on how to penalty kill. Blues dominated every single aspect of the game and it wasn't even close. Great 7-0 win.

[MikeThierry]

Wow, Peter Laviolette was just fired from the Flyers. It seems like the NHL has the most in season coaching firings of any sport in North America:

http://espn.go.com/nhl/story/_/id/9785141/peter-laviolette-fired-philadelphia-flyers-head-coach-source-confirms

[Revering4Blue]

Wow, Peter Laviolette was just fired from the Flyers. It seems like the NHL has the most in season coaching firings of any sport in North America:

http://espn.go.com/nhl/story/_/id/9785141/peter-laviolette-fired-philadelphia-flyers-head-coach-source-confirms

And in a city well-known for patient fans -- surprise, surprise.

[Reds/Flyers Fan]

Go Avs!

I'm loving the Patrick Roy coaching change and Nathan MacKinnon is going to be a superstar. This team is going to be fun to follow for a long time.

[Joseph]

Wife is treating me to a weekend in Chicago coming up. Home games on Friday and Saturday night against the Isles and Sabres. Should be a fun weekend.

[MikeThierry]

Go Avs!

I'm loving the Patrick Roy coaching change and Nathan MacKinnon is going to be a superstar. This team is going to be fun to follow for a long time.

That is one of the best stories this year in my opinion. Do you think it can continue or do you think it's a young team playing hard for their new coach?

[Patrick Bateman]

Wife is treating me to a weekend in Chicago coming up. Home games on Friday and Saturday night against the Isles and Sabres. Should be a fun weekend.

Fantastic. Enjoy, my friend! Nothing beats that atmosphere.

[Joseph]

Fantastic. Enjoy, my friend! Nothing beats that atmosphere.

You can say that again. I love it every time.

[Reds/Flyers Fan]

That is one of the best stories this year in my opinion. Do you think it can continue or do you think it's a young team playing hard for their new coach?

They have some serious talent on that team - young, highly drafted talent. MacKinnon, Duchene, O'reilly, Johnson, Landeskog, Varlomov. And some key vets too, like Parenteau, Downie, Bordeleau, McGinn and Stastny (who I think will be traded mid-season for D help). And the return of Alex Tanguay is much welcome. Not only can he help the young kids but it's fun to see the old Stanley Cup guys come back and finish their careers in Denver (Forsberg, Foote).

I think they'll pleasantly surprise this year. But next year and the years beyond, look out!

[Patrick Bateman]

They have some serious talent on that team - young, highly drafted talent. MacKinnon, Duchene, O'reilly, Johnson, Landeskog, Varlomov. And some key vets too, like Parenteau, Downie, Bordeleau, McGinn and Stastny (who I think will be traded mid-season for D help). And the return of Alex Tanguay is much welcome. Not only can he help the young kids but it's fun to see the old Stanley Cup guys come back and finish their careers in Denver (Forsberg, Foote).

I think they'll pleasantly surprise this year. But next year and the years beyond, look out!

Question for them is how fast will Elliot and Barrie improve to take control of the D core? Last season it was an absolute mess and made it real hard for the forwards to get consistent puck possession. The forwards have a lot of talent and are already competing at a high level in the NHL. But time has proven EJ isn't the guy to steer the ship (probably more of a second pair guy at this point), and the rest are just roster filler. They will begin competing when the calvary arrive on the back end. Same issue Edmonton has had trouble solving.

Until then, will be fun hockey with lots of goals on both ends.

[MikeThierry]

Good god how bad was the Erik Johnson trade for the Avs? I'm sure he's a decent guy but the Blues got the ultimate win thus far with that trade.

[OldRightHander]

Real gem here from Jonathan Quick.

http://images.ftw.usatoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/cropped_Quick-puck-handling-error.gif

[M2]

The Rangers finally started playing some hockey last night. It's about time. They've still got 7 more games left on their season-opening 9-game road trip.

BTW, thanks to the Blue Jackets for Derick Brassard and John Moore. Those kids can play.

Meanwhile the Flyers canned their coach and elevated legendary goon Craig Berube. It's going to be Slapshot 2.0 in Philly.

[M2]

Good god how bad was the Erik Johnson trade for the Avs? I'm sure he's a decent guy but the Blues got the ultimate win thus far with that trade.

That was a terrible trade on the day it was made and it just keeps getting worse. Shattenkirk alone would have been a steal for Johnson (Shatty likely will be QBing the U.S. power play at the Olympics this winter), but to get Stewart too?

On the flip side, I'm shocked the Blues didn't get more for David Perron. Other teams should have lined up for that guy (e.g. Montreal, Florida, Islanders).

[Crumbley]

Have been flirting with hockey fandom the past couple of years, our ECHL team is always a fun night out. Have been watching random games on NBCSN, but have no hockey allegiance. Red Wings would make me feel like a bandwagoner, but the Blue Jackets have zero history, nor do I have any connection to Columbus. I'm an hour from Detroit though, so it'd be really easy to go to games.

[Joseph]

Have been flirting with hockey fandom the past couple of years, our ECHL team is always a fun night out. Have been watching random games on NBCSN, but have no hockey allegiance. Red Wings would make me feel like a bandwagoner, but the Blue Jackets have zero history, nor do I have any connection to Columbus. I'm an hour from Detroit though, so it'd be really easy to go to games.

Go to games. There's nothing like live hockey. I love baseball. It's majestic sometimes. It's wonderful. But hockey in person trumps it in my opinion.

And as much as I root against Detroit, I wouldn't call you a bandwagoner for cheering for them.

Columbus however is starting to turn a corner, now might be a good time to get in on the ground floor.

[MikeThierry]

That was a terrible trade on the day it was made and it just keeps getting worse. Shattenkirk alone would have been a steal for Johnson (Shatty likely will be QBing the U.S. power play at the Olympics this winter), but to get Stewart too?

On the flip side, I'm shocked the Blues didn't get more for David Perron. Other teams should have lined up for that guy (e.g. Montreal, Florida, Islanders).

There is some local controversy here about the Perron trade. I certainly thought they could have got more out of him but it was clearly a payroll dump to make room for Pietrangelo's new deal. I like the guy they got back and seems to fit the Blues system more than Perron does.

[MikeThierry]

Go to games. There's nothing like live hockey. I love baseball. It's majestic sometimes. It's wonderful. But hockey in person trumps it in my opinion.

And as much as I root against Detroit, I wouldn't call you a bandwagoner for cheering for them.

Columbus however is starting to turn a corner, now might be a good time to get in on the ground floor.

I totally agree here. Hockey is tailor made to be viewed live. There is nothing in sports like ice level seats where you literally feel hits on the board. Last time I went, I had my beer on the ledge where the glass was. A huge hit came in my direction and spilled my beer all over me. Yet, despite being a mess and wasting an $8 beer, I yelled "rip his head off!!". That atmosphere is amazing and I wish everyone could experience it.

[Patrick Bateman]

Your Blues are going down tonight Mike!

[Joseph]

What a game so far!

[OldRightHander]

Your Blues are going down tonight Mike!

Come again.

[Joseph]

Ugly end to a good game.

[OldRightHander]

Beautiful end to a great game.

[Joseph]

To each his own I suppose.

[Patrick Bateman]

Certainly not a beautiful end. Broken stick and a bad pinch (with 30 seconds left no way would I be pinching) gives the Blues the game.

Classic match between the 2 teams. Hawks got abad break and compounded with a bad decision and Steen capitalized like he always seems to.

[OldRightHander]

To each his own I suppose.

Something about the eye of the beholder comes to mind.

[MikeThierry]

That was an awesome game that could have went either way. From what I saw switching back and fourth to the Cards game, Halak was a BOSS tonight in net. Also, Pietrangelo is a beauty to watch. Dude had 2 more assists which brings his total to 5 thus far and really made some players look bad tonight with is play. Baring injury, I think he's going to win the Norris this year.

I hope this is how Hawks/Blues games are all year. Both teams look about even in terms of strength, which is something the Blues need to show and need to do if they're going to take it to the next level. All of that said, it is early and who knows what will happen 3-5 months from now.

[MikeThierry]

Something about the eye of the beholder comes to mind.

Hey OldRightHander, how are you liking that Morrow, Roy, Stewart line? I didn't know what to expect from them but they have been playing awesome thus far in my opinion.

[reds44]

Seabrook pinching with 30 seconds left in a tie game was really dumb.

[Patrick Bateman]

Seabrook pinching with 30 seconds left in a tie game was really dumb.

Ya, probably.

But he also pinched in game 7 vs. Detroit, so I'm going to give him a pass on this one. Plus if Toews' stick doesn't break, Seabrook probably scores.

Just playing devil's advocate, but I agree, in a regular season game of importance being so close to OT, wasn't the time to go 'all out' for a goal. A case where playing with too much confidence comes back to bite them.

[reds44]

He didn't score in Game 7 because he pinched, he scored because Bolland laid somebody out at center ice. He scored in Game 4 in Boston because he pinched.

The Hawks always encourage their dmen to pinch and sometimes that will happen, but you have to know the situation better than that. Take your point.

[MikeThierry]

I hope the Hawks vs. Blues games are like this the whole season. I feel that rivalry is going to heat back up. If you didn't check out the NHL Rivals show before the pre-game last night, I would highly recommend viewing it.

[Patrick Bateman]

He didn't score in Game 7 because he pinched, he scored because Bolland laid somebody out at center ice. He scored in Game 4 in Boston because he pinched.


You can "pinch" in a number of ways. Seabrook jumped from his normal position because the puck was freely available at centre ice. If Kronwall didn't defend that puck so badly, and the play went back the other way quickly, Hawks probably would have been outnumbered. Anytime as a defensemen you leave your position you are gambling that a giveaway might lead to just as good a chance on the opposite end.

In game 4, shot was from the point, didn't really need to leave his position. Just stepped into one and it happened to go in. There was much more risk involved with the play in game 7. That goal was absolutely scored because he picked his spot at the right time.


The Hawks always encourage their dmen to pinch and sometimes that will happen, but you have to know the situation better than that. Take your point.

Agreed. As I previously stated, 30 seconds left in a regular season game against a division rival, is not a good cost/benefit decision. If that is OT or a playoff game I hold no issue with it. Seabrook has been doing that more lately because it's been working, and hopefully he learned a lesson on that one to choose his timing better.

[Patrick Bateman]

I hope the Hawks vs. Blues games are like this the whole season. I feel that rivalry is going to heat back up. If you didn't check out the NHL Rivals show before the pre-game last night, I would highly recommend viewing it.

This is probably the season we finally play each other in the post lockout era playoffs. Just a feeling. If so, would be a great match-up of two very good, but very different types of teams.

Will be interesting to see whether between Schwatz and Tarasenko they can pick up that extra dimension they lack from being able to generate offense despite the defensive system. That's always seemed to be the issue with the Blues, that when push comes to shove they are too easy to defend against when down a goal or two. Some pieces are certainly in place to change that.

[OldRightHander]

Hey OldRightHander, how are you liking that Morrow, Roy, Stewart line? I didn't know what to expect from them but they have been playing awesome thus far in my opinion.

Definitely solid so far. We all knew that Morrow is a solid player and what we saw from Stewart last year was promising, but I didn't know what to expect from them together. I'm pleased so far.

[MikeThierry]

This is probably the season we finally play each other in the post lockout era playoffs. Just a feeling. If so, would be a great match-up of two very good, but very different types of teams.

Will be interesting to see whether between Schwatz and Tarasenko they can pick up that extra dimension they lack from being able to generate offense despite the defensive system. That's always seemed to be the issue with the Blues, that when push comes to shove they are too easy to defend against when down a goal or two. Some pieces are certainly in place to change that.

That is a fair criticism about the Hitchcock system. That said, with a full year of Leopold and Bouwmeester along with both Pietrangelo and Shattenkirk maturing, I think the Blues will get more scoring opportunities with an active defense they have. Pietrangelo already looks like he's taking that next step in being a play making defensive player. He already has 5 assists in the young season.

[Reds/Flyers Fan]

Avs improve to 4-0 with shutout of Bruins in Boston.

Patrick Roy!!!

[MikeThierry]

Avs improve to 4-0 with shutout of Bruins in Boston.

Patrick Roy!!!

Wow, that's an impressive win. Is there anything about his system that is remarkably different than what they've been doing or is it just a new culture?

[OldRightHander]

Well, we have another 4-0 team now.

[Joseph]

Great weekend in Chicago. Two Hawks wins in a back to back with the Isles and the Sabres yet we are still looking up at the Blues and Avs. Promises to be a division a lot like the NL Central with the top half pretty talented and heavy. By seasons end a few points could separate all 3.

[Joseph]

Blues vs Sharks. Sign me up.

[MikeThierry]

Blues vs Sharks. Sign me up.

It's going to be a fun game to watch. My remote is going to get a workout tonight with the baseball game going at the same time.

[Joseph]

1-1 after one. Gonna be another good one it looks like.

[OldRightHander]

Heck of a game no matter how the shoutout ends up.

[Joseph]

Yup another good one. A bad bounce for the Hawks resulting in that own goal for Keith was really the difference. Great goaltending, great D by both teams. Should see this all season.

[Joseph]

Nice little game here between the Pens and Avs.

[Fil3232]

Was really impressed watching the Avs the other night vs Detroit. They have some serious speed and skill, at least to my eye. And Patrick Roy seems to be an ideal fit for that team. His intensity and competitiveness should serve them well.

Roy seems like a quick burn type. His style and demeanor can elevate certain types of teams, but I imagine it could really alienate other types.

Anyway, this is an Avs team I think I'll really enjoy hating again (as a Detroit fan).

[Revering4Blue]

For the Sabres, the proverbial first shoe has dropped.


The Buffalo Sabres started the final phase of their rebuilding project by trading prize goal scorer Thomas Vanek to the New York Islanders for a package that includes Matt Moulson, a first-round draft pick in 2014 and a second-rounder in 2015.

At some point this season, the Sabres could also trade veterans Ryan Miller and Steve Ott as rental players.

http://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/nhl/2013/10/27/thomas-vanek-trade-buffalo-sabres-new-york-islanders/3283065/

[MikeThierry]

Where do you all see Miller going to?

[Revering4Blue]

Where do you all see Miller going to?
Hard to say.

Given Dubnyk's health and the quality of prospects to entice Buffalo, I'd rank Edmonton as a destination that makes sense. However, Edmonton is reportedly on Miller's no trade list, but who knows; Miller may consider a move there.

[Joseph]

Buffalo is going to want a lot for him. With the haul they just got from the Isles for Vanek they could position themselves for a solid rebuild in a hurry.

I think the likely destination is Edmonton, but anything could happen. Still a haul of Nail Yakupov would be a good return for him.

Another spot I could see would be Winnipeg. Pavalec isn't a bad goalie, although inconsistent, but I could see a real number one be brought in.

[M2]

Where do you all see Miller going to?

I'll go with the Caps or the Islanders.

[MikeThierry]

Do you see the Avs trading for Miller since Semyon Varlamov was arrested?

[M2]

Do you see the Avs trading for Miller since Semyon Varlamov was arrested?

We'll have to see how that shakes out first. Though the Avs also have Giguere, so they probably won't make a panic move.

Great game by Miller tonight (in another loss). He made 44 saves.

[OldRightHander]

I'd like to see the Panthers on the schedule a bit more for the Note.

[Reds/Flyers Fan]

Do you see the Avs trading for Miller since Semyon Varlamov was arrested?

No. Varly has already posted a win since the incident and the Avs are 2-0 since.

[OldRightHander]

A real battle in Montreal tonight.

[Tom Servo]

The Islanders are incredibly frustrating to watch so far.

[M2]

The Islanders are incredibly frustrating to watch so far.

They have been for roughly 20 years. Just got leapfrogged by the Rangers, who have recovered nicely from their terrible start.

Confusing watching the Rangers play the Blue Jackets tonight. Their unis look awfully similar and when I constantly hear the names Gaborik, Dubinsky, Anisimov and Tyutin I start having flashbacks.

[Revering4Blue]

As a Canes fan, I'm pleased with tonight's outcome (Sorry, Tom), especially given the fact that Cam Ward is sidelined. So far this season, the Hurricanes seem to either win by one goal or they don't win at all.

[HotCorner]

Caps have reeled off 4 wins in a row. Playing much better (8-3) after a rough start (1-4). #1 PK and PP units in the league too.

[OldRightHander]

Blues and Penguins in a good old good one tonight.

[Joseph]

Hawkey!

That is all.

[Joseph]

Look at those Blues tonight.

[OldRightHander]

Look at those Blues tonight.

That was enjoyable.

[5TimeWSChamps]

#Blackhawks trade Jimmy Hayes and Dylan Olsen to Panthers for Kris Versteeg and another player. Florida will pay half of Versteeg's salary.

[MikeThierry]

That was enjoyable.

That was an awesome game last night. The Blues looked they totally dismantled the Avs transition game and it might be a model other teams use to stop their quick strike offense.

[Joseph]

Ouch. Nashville took the Hawks to the woodshed tonight. Hawks looked slow, lethargic, and a step behind on almost everything all night.

[MikeThierry]

I hate when the game is on when I'm at work. Hockey at 3 is certainly odd, even if it is a day after a holiday.

[Spitball]

The Bruins beat the Rangers again today. I enjoy victories against New York more than any team. They had an intense rivalry in the late 1960s and 1970s. I will never forget the opening minutes of the 1970 playoffs when the Rangers ganged up and jumped Derek Sanderson. It didn't help. The Bruins still won that round.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M2XaxbvR-M8

[Joseph]

Old school hate. I love it.

[OldRightHander]

I hate when the game is on when I'm at work. Hockey at 3 is certainly odd, even if it is a day after a holiday.

You didn't miss much.

[MikeThierry]

You didn't miss much.

The Sharks have our number this year. We look like the best team in hockey against every other team in the NHL but when facing the Sharks, we look like an AHL team. I don't understand it.

[11larkin11]

The Sharks have our number this year. We look like the best team in hockey against every other team in the NHL but when facing the Sharks, we look like an AHL team. I don't understand it.

Exactly how my Avs feel. Look fantastic against everyone not named the Blues.

[M2]

The Bruins beat the Rangers again today. I enjoy victories against New York more than any team. They had an intense rivalry in the late 1960s and 1970s. I will never forget the opening minutes of the 1970 playoffs when the Rangers ganged up and jumped Derek Sanderson. It didn't help. The Bruins still won that round.

Both franchises had been the dregs of the NHL in the early and mid 1960s. They got better in a hurry after the first wave of expansion. When they got jammed together in the East division in the early '70s it got pretty intense. Add in the 1970 playoffs, the 1972 Stanley Cup and the 1973 playoffs (at least the Rangers won one of those matchups). There were five great teams in that 1967-75 expansion era - the Canadiens, Bruins, Rangers, Blackhawks and Flyers. The Rangers and Blackhawks conspired somehow to win zero Stanley Cups between them despite each having a core of Hall-of-Famers.

As a Rangers fan I figure they can't beat the Islanders enough to satisfy my revengelust. Then there's the Flyers and Devils. The Bruins fall into my third tier of hockey enemies with the Penguins and Caps.

[OldRightHander]

I've got my tickets for Blues vs. Blue Jackets tomorrow night, 3rd row on the blue line. Going in my Blues gear and going to make a valiant attempt at behaving myself.

[Joseph]

you can do it brother! Fans are pretty calm there for the most part.

[OldRightHander]

you can do it brother! Fans are pretty calm there for the most part.

I know. I go every time the Blues are in town and it's always a good experience.

[Spitball]

If we don't go to Mardi Gras this year, we plan to go to see the Bruins versus the Blues in St. Louis on February 6. I'd like to do both...and might.

[MikeThierry]

If we don't go to Mardi Gras this year, we plan to go to see the Bruins versus the Blues in St. Louis on February 6. I'd like to do both...and might.

Mardi Gras is a fun, fun time. Just not the next morning :D

[MikeThierry]

I know. I go every time the Blues are in town and it's always a good experience.

That was a great, character building game for the Blues. That said, not playing well in the first period is starting to become a trend for them. I'm glad for the victory but there are some warning signs that they need to fix before it gets out of hand.

[Stephenk29]

Headed to Nashville and Pittsburg for the first time for games. Anyone have recommendations for the two arenas?

[Kingspoint]

Ouch. Nashville took the Hawks to the woodshed tonight. Hawks looked slow, lethargic, and a step behind on almost everything all night.
Toronto does it, too.

But, Hawks' league dominance going on a full-season and a third now. Remarkable run.

Go Hawks!

[OldRightHander]

Ok, I have to give some major props to the Blue Jackets organization. I've been attending games every time the Blues come into town for several years now and the experience has always been first class. So now today I get an email with some sort of survey about my experience and the darn thing was pretty thorough. Then they turned around and called me asking how my experience was at the game and if I would attend any future games or recommend it to any friends. I told her that I enjoyed myself immensely, especially the outcome of the game, and we had a decent conversation for a few minutes about how I came to root for the other team while living here, etc.

Anyway, I have to wonder how many professional sports franchises make efforts like that to reach out to fans the way they do. It seems that a lot of teams take their fan base for granted and just assume they're always going to show up. Could it be because hockey is more of a niche sport or is it just that this organization is actively trying to court a good loyal fan base? Whatever the motive, it seems that they don't take their fans for granted, and that seems like something other organizations could take to heart.

[Joseph]

Got tickets for the Stadium Series game at Soldier Field on March 1st. I hope I don't freeze to death.

[OldRightHander]

Well, the Oilers put together one decent period against the Blues tonight with nothing to show for it, and have been taken to the woodshed since then.

[Joseph]

Hawks laying the wood to the Avs tonight. Big matchup with the Blues coming.

[Kingspoint]

Hawks laying the wood to the Avs tonight. Big matchup with the Blues coming.

Sharp and Toews dominant!

[OldRightHander]

Blues and Hawks always good for entertaining games this season. This one was great from the last part of the 3rd period on.

[Kingspoint]

Blues and Hawks always good for entertaining games this season. This one was great from the last part of the 3rd period on.

Always going to miss Detroit vs St. Louis and Detroit vs Chicago several times a year.

Only five penalties in the Blues/Hawks game with only two coming after the 1st Period. Refs let them play. But, it was a PPG (Holding of Morrow by Hjalmarsson) that tied it with under three minutes left. Can't let everything go.

Unbelievable 11-0-1 record by the Blues of the Central Division.

Incredible performance. Short-handed, the Blues really needed their crowd and they delivered.

Gonna have to figure out some way to beat the Blues this season.

[Joseph]

Blues and Hawks always good for entertaining games this season. This one was great from the last part of the 3rd period on.

I think it was a much better game prior to that point ;)

Hitchcock made the right call with the goalie switch and the Hawks seemed to slow down or something after the got the big lead.

Blues are an excellent team and will be a tough match up for anyone in the playoffs.

[MikeThierry]

I think it was a much better game prior to that point ;)

Hitchcock made the right call with the goalie switch and the Hawks seemed to slow down or something after the got the big lead.

Blues are an excellent team and will be a tough match up for anyone in the playoffs.

That was an epic game last night. I thought the Hawks really dominated the Blues in the 1st but I felt the Blues had the better of play the last two periods. I think what was impressive, from a Blues standpoint, is that they were missing several key players including Steen yet they still managed to pull out the victory.

For Blackhawk fans, what's the mystery behind Kane not having any shootout goals this year? That seems mind boggling to me.

[MikeThierry]

Also, Hitch needs to put Tarasenko on the shootout more. This was absolutely sick

http://video.blues.nhl.com/videocenter/console?id=522908&lang=en

[Kingspoint]

For Blackhawk fans, what's the mystery behind Kane not having any shootout goals this year? That seems mind boggling to me.

Hossa missed, too, last night. He needs to be coming through on those.

[Kingspoint]

Also, Hitch needs to put Tarasenko on the shootout more. This was absolutely sick

http://video.blues.nhl.com/videocenter/console?id=522908&lang=en

Speaking of shootouts, why does the West end up in so many more than the East? The West's 8th place team has one fewer regulation loss than any team in the East, but a lot fewer wins. The West's 10th place team has only one more loss than the best teams in the East.

I have to assume that the East attacks more and is more aggressive, but is that it?

[MikeThierry]

Speaking of shootouts, why does the West end up in so many more than the East? The West's 8th place team has one fewer regulation loss than any team in the East, but a lot fewer wins. The West's 10th place team has only one more loss than the best teams in the East.

I have to assume that the East attacks more and is more aggressive, but is that it?

That's a good question. I really don't know the answer but there are a couple of possibilities. It might be that the parity in the West is much greater than that of the East. Low end Western teams are close to on par with the top end Western conference teams than the top East Coast teams vs. the bottom east coast teams. For example, while Nashville is the last place team in the Central, they are a tough match up against anyone. Buffalo, on the other hand, is just plain awful and most teams have steam rolled them. That could be one of the factors as to why there are so many shootouts or OT games in the West.

This goes into the previous point, and are similar in nature, but I think the East has way more elite level talent with the top teams than they do with the lower teams while the West is kind of spread around a bit. Look at a team like Edmonton. They have sick high level talent but are still cellar dwellars in the West. While you can point to teams like the Islanders having Taveras, it just seems like the lower end teams in the East don't have the same kind of elite talent the lower end teams like the West have. That's why those low end teams in the East tend to get steam rolled while maybe the low end Western conference teams have a chance on a nightly basis against the elite teams in the NHL.

[Joseph]

Helluva game between the Kings and Hawks. 1-0 win for the Blackhawks on a goal that almost wasn't.

Felt like a playoff game, lots of D, lots of pushing and shoving. A very fitting game between the last 2 Cup champs.

[Spitball]

I am enjoying the Winter Classic in Michigan Stadium in Ann Arbor. Hockey in the snow reminds me of playing on Nutter's Pond as a kid.

[westofyou]

I am enjoying the Winter Classic in Michigan Stadium in Ann Arbor. Hockey in the snow reminds me of playing on Nutter's Pond as a kid.

Reminds me of the back yard rinks in our neighborhood and the joy of Gilbert Lake when it froze over.

Don't miss the cold though myself, I have all my windows in a 2014 air out

[M2]

Jonathan Bernier's toque is the coolest thing ever.

[westofyou]

Jonathan Bernier's toque is the coolest thing ever.

http://dy.snimg.com/story-image/5/66/4553925/201524-0-600.jpg

[M2]

I never much wanted the Rangers to trade for Rick Nash, but I tried to get on board with the move when it happened. I'm over that now. Slats can't trade him fast enough as far as I'm concerned. I haven't been this eager to coyote arm a player since Eric Lindros.

[Joseph]

I never much wanted the Rangers to trade for Rick Nash, but I tried to get on board with the move when it happened. I'm over that now. Slats can't trade him fast enough as far as I'm concerned. I haven't been this eager to coyote arm a player since Eric Lindros.

That bad huh?

[M2]

That bad huh?

He's just so vastly overrated and he's never going to get better. Two goals tonight, which is nice, but he makes huge bank and most nights he's not a difference maker.

[Stephenk29]

He's just so vastly overrated and he's never going to get better. Two goals tonight, which is nice, but he makes huge bank and most nights he's not a difference maker.

Watched him for years in Columbus. He just seems lazy. That's hard to hide in hockey.

[Joseph]

I hope he's awful tonight.

[Kingspoint]

This is more of an Olympic Hockey blurb, but Canada looks really dominant to me. They have Sharp this time that they didn't have last time. Can't see them losing a game.

On another Olympic Hockey note...the U.S. Women's Team looks like a Miss America contest. Nice combination of looks and skill. ;)

[M2]

I hope he's awful tonight.

He was, but the Rangers won anyway.

Somebody will have to explain to me how Nash just made Team Canada over Claude Giroux and Milan Lucic.

[Joseph]

He was, but the Rangers won anyway.

Somebody will have to explain to me how Nash just made Team Canada over Claude Giroux and Milan Lucic.

I agree. I was surprised he was there too. From what I hear there are some folks not too happy with some of the TC selections more than just regular grumbling.

[Patrick Bateman]

He was, but the Rangers won anyway.

Somebody will have to explain to me how Nash just made Team Canada over Claude Giroux and Milan Lucic.

Apparently they were in love with the way he played on Toews' line 4 years ago.

They clearly haven't watched much tape since then, he just isn't the same physical prescence he once was.

[5TimeWSChamps]

Jackets on fire. 3 in a row

[MikeThierry]

This is more of an Olympic Hockey blurb, but Canada looks really dominant to me. They have Sharp this time that they didn't have last time. Can't see them losing a game.

On another Olympic Hockey note...the U.S. Women's Team looks like a Miss America contest. Nice combination of looks and skill. ;)

I agree that they're really really good and should be are the favorites going into the tournament. That said, I think people are underestimating the US team. Sure there are controversies like not adding Ryan to the roster but I sort of like what the US is doing. They have a lot of forwards that are good enough to put the puck in the net but also responsible on the defensive side of things. Forwards like Backes, Oshie, and Brown give highly skilled players a heck of a time coming into the defensive zone and I don't think they will give the highly skilled players that much space to move into open ice. The only thing I think the US is weaker than some teams is defense but even the defense will be good enough if the defensive forwards we have do what they're supposed to be doing.

[Kingspoint]

Crawford winless in his last seven games.

What is that now for the Hawks? One win out of about a dozen or so games that have gone to overtime? I know that's not the exact stat, but it's something ridiculously bad like that.

The Hawks can't figure out how to win tied games once regulation ends. Could maybe use a rejuvenation from Hossa, but it's much more than that.

[Patrick Bateman]

The Hawks can't figure out how to win tied games once regulation ends. Could maybe use a rejuvenation from Hossa, but it's much more than that.

It's not really a matter of "figuring things out". OT and shootouts are so random... we are evaluating 5 minute intervals of hockey, and 10 or so games... ie. not even a full 60 minutes of hockey.

Hawks are actually a great 4 on 4 team with their speed, and normally a good shootout team, but with Kane in a funk for some reason has turned them around.

Being so far up in a playoff spot the OT points don't really matter. Those losses aren't indicitive of their general level of play. It's just not something to get too concerned about IMO.

[Joseph]

Who you got as Captain of team Canada? Crosby or Captain Serious Jonny Toews?

[MikeThierry]

Who you got as Captain of team Canada? Crosby or Captain Serious Jonny Toews?

I think it almost has to be Crosby.

[OldRightHander]

Blues and Kings laying some hits tonight. Entertaining game so far.

[Joseph]

I think it almost has to be Crosby.

Your vote doesn't count, you hate Toews.

Kidding.

Obviously I have Hawk colored glasses on, but I think it SHOULD be Toews. I think it WILL be Crosby though. A guy like Toews is why the league has Captains. Crosby is an amazing talent [even if he does have his ass kissed by the league and NBC sports constantly] but I don't think his leadership skills match some of the other captains in the league like Toews.

[M2]

I should insult Rangers players more often. Nash has been on fire since I slagged him two weeks ago. New York's on a roll too. Me likey.

[M2]

Your vote doesn't count, you hate Toews.

Kidding.

Obviously I have Hawk colored glasses on, but I think it SHOULD be Toews. I think it WILL be Crosby though. A guy like Toews is why the league has Captains. Crosby is an amazing talent [even if he does have his ass kissed by the league and NBC sports constantly] but I don't think his leadership skills match some of the other captains in the league like Toews.

Totally agreed. Sid kind of plays in his own bubble. I suspect his gold medal goal from 2006 wins him the automatic Team Canada captaincy (only thing he did right the whole damn game, talk about vulturing the glory). If this were just about who's going to rally the troops if there's trouble, then Toews is the easy pick. Won't be about that.

Reminds me of when the Oilers had Gretzky and Messier. Gretzky was the best player on the planet, but only played as much defense as he had to and was far from the leader in the dressing room. Messier did everything on top of demanding his teammates leave every ounce of what they had on the ice.

[Kingspoint]

With seven minutes to go in the 3rd, Minnesota has outhit the Hawks 15-6 (yet, Chicago had four penalties to Minnesota's one to this point).

Yet, Chicago has outshot the Wild 19-9 since the end of the 1st period.

Haven't seen the game. Are/have the Hawks been disrupted in their flow by the Wild's more physical play? What's accounted for the shutout?

[Joseph]

Hawks are just slow tonight, just like last night in Detroit. Detroit was much more physical than the Wild have been tonight so I don't think its a matter of getting shoved around as much as just facing a goalie standing on his head and being slower than the Wild are.

[5TimeWSChamps]

8 in a row for the Blue Jackets

[Kingspoint]

Chicago flexed their superiority last night in Anaheim demonstrating they are still the team to beat by blanking the Ducks 2-0. Just have to avoid the Blues.

The Blackhawks are now 3-0-2 on their six-game swing before Sochi takes over hockey.

[Patrick Bateman]

Hawks have lost 3 regulation games in last 23 games or something like that. Those who think the Hawks have been "slumping" because of their inability to convert in SO and OT must also believe in pixies and fairies.

The Hawks will be the team to beat until they are elimianted IMO.

[M2]

All right, I'm a soccer fan and, IMO, that sport has figured out scoring wins and ties pretty well. 3 points for a win. 1 point for a tie. Winning is the name of the game. Ties give you a little something, but too many and you drop to the middle of the standings. I'd love to see the NHL keep OT (I'm open to either side of whether to award a point for an OT loss, didn't figure OT loss points into the below figures though they wouldn't have changed the relative standings), ditch the shoot out and go to the 3-1-0 system. It probably won't ever happen, but here are the Olympic break standings if the NHL used that system.

Atlantic

Boston - 112
Montreal - 93
Tampa Bay - 90
Toronto - 82
Detroit - 78
Ottawa - 78
Florida - 57
Buffalo - 37

Metropolitan

Pittsburgh - 113
NY Rangers - 90
Philadelphia - 89
Columbus - 80
New Jersey - 80
Carolina - 79
Washington - 72
NY Islanders - 58

Central

Colorado - 108
St. Louis - 106
Chicago - 103
Minnesota - 85
Nashville - 80
Dallas - 79
Winnipeg - 79

Pacific

Anaheim - 123
San Jose - 98
Los Angeles - 85
Vancouver - 79
Phoenix - 77
Calgary - 61
Edmonton - 58

There's a number of teams in the East that are being buoyed by OT and shootout points - Toronto, Detroit and Washington. Interestingly, the difference between the two supposed heavyweights in the Central and Colorado is due to garbage points. The Avalanche actually win more games. And Anaheim's class becomes even more apparent.

[Patrick Bateman]

I prefer the 3-2-1 system. I don't like OT wins being equal to a regulation win since OT is 4 on 4. Gives little motivation to teams to win in regulation.

[Kingspoint]

All right, I'm a soccer fan and, IMO, that sport has figured out scoring wins and ties pretty well. 3 points for a win. 1 point for a tie. Winning is the name of the game. Ties give you a little something, but too many and you drop to the middle of the standings. I'd love to see the NHL keep OT (I'm open to either side of whether to award a point for an OT loss, didn't figure OT loss points into the below figures though they wouldn't have changed the relative standings), ditch the shoot out and go to the 3-1-0 system. It probably won't ever happen, but here are the Olympic break standings if the NHL used that system.

Atlantic

Boston - 112
Montreal - 93
Tampa Bay - 90
Toronto - 82
Detroit - 78
Ottawa - 78
Florida - 57
Buffalo - 37

Metropolitan

Pittsburgh - 113
NY Rangers - 90
Philadelphia - 89
Columbus - 80
New Jersey - 80
Carolina - 79
Washington - 72
NY Islanders - 58

Central

Colorado - 108
St. Louis - 106
Chicago - 103
Minnesota - 85
Nashville - 80
Dallas - 79
Winnipeg - 79

Pacific

Anaheim - 123
San Jose - 98
Los Angeles - 85
Vancouver - 79
Phoenix - 77
Calgary - 61
Edmonton - 58

There's a number of teams in the East that are being buoyed by OT and shootout points - Toronto, Detroit and Washington. Interestingly, the difference between the two supposed heavyweights in the Central and Colorado is due to garbage points. The Avalanche actually win more games. And Anaheim's class becomes even more apparent.

Something has got to be changed. I can't stand shootouts in soccer or hockey.

I would award 3 for a win, 1 for a tie and nothing for a loss, and change the sudden death OT to ten minutes in hockey and twenty-five minutes in soccer.

[Kingspoint]

This is more of an Olympic Hockey blurb, but Canada looks really dominant to me. They have Sharp this time that they didn't have last time. Can't see them losing a game.


Sweden goes down next to complete the sweep.

[Joseph]

3 Blackhawks will get gold, 3 will get silver.

Not bad for that squad at all when 25% of your roster do that well. I'd wager no other team can boast that.

[Joseph]

Congrats to team Canada and team Sweden. Amazing run by both.

[Kingspoint]

Total domination by Canada.

They never trailed once the entire tournament.

No other team ever had a chance.

[Joseph]

Total domination by Canada.

They never trailed once the entire tournament.

No other team ever had a chance.

They play a serious puck possession game.

[M2]

Interesting game between the Rangers and Blackhawks tonight. Obviously, as a Rangers fan, I'm happy with the outcome. I thought the Rangers got the better of the play in general, created better chances, looked to be the faster team.

Yet a few things about Chicago really impressed me: they worked crazy hard, they took a lot of shots (even if they were low percentage shots), they almost stole a point at the end, Crawford was close to his 2013 playoff form, and Hjalmarsson made an outrageous number of defensive plays. Seriously, Hjalmarsson must have derailed close to dozen goal scoring opportunities, awesome game from him. That's going to be one tough team to beat come the playoffs.

[Patrick Bateman]

Interesting game between the Rangers and Blackhawks tonight. Obviously, as a Rangers fan, I'm happy with the outcome. I thought the Rangers got the better of the play in general, created better chances, looked to be the faster team.

Yet a few things about Chicago really impressed me: they worked crazy hard, they took a lot of shots (even if they were low percentage shots), they almost stole a point at the end, Crawford was close to his 2013 playoff form, and Hjalmarsson made an outrageous number of defensive plays. Seriously, Hjalmarsson must have derailed close to dozen goal scoring opportunities, awesome game from him. That's going to be one tough team to beat come the playoffs.

Ya they looked a little "out of synch" in that game offensively... how many times did they make 3 consecutive passes? I think led to few rush chances and more perimeter kind of stuff. We still need to find a real centreman to play with Kane. That line just gets killed in the possession game night in and night out.

[M2]

Ya they looked a little "out of synch" in that game offensively... how many times did they make 3 consecutive passes? I think led to few rush chances and more perimeter kind of stuff. We still need to find a real centreman to play with Kane. That line just gets killed in the possession game night in and night out.

I'm going to take a little credit for the Rangers on the Hawks looking out of synch. I think New York's speed really affected them. Chicago just didn't get a lot of space to operate and the Rangers' transition kept the Hawks' defense pinned back.

It will be interesting to see if there's a quality centerman available in the next week. I happen to like Sam Gagner's game, though I can see where a team like Chicago might want a little more defensive grit than he offers. Matt Stajan? Steve Ott? Cody Eakin? Dave Legwand? Collin Wilson? Frans Nielsen? Travis Zajac? Olli Jokinen?

I'd probably say one of the two Preds on that list would make the most sense, but it might be tough for the Hawks to swing a deal with a division rival. Otherwise maybe try to get the Devils to punt in a deal for Zajac.

[Tom Servo]

Ryan Miller traded to St. Louis for Halak.

[M2]

Ryan Miller traded to St. Louis for Halak.

Steve Ott also going to the Blues. Chris Stewart, William Carrier, a 2015 1st rounder and a 2016 3rd rounder go to Buffalo.

[Patrick Bateman]

I'm going to take a little credit for the Rangers on the Hawks looking out of synch. I think New York's speed really affected them. Chicago just didn't get a lot of space to operate and the Rangers' transition kept the Hawks' defense pinned back.

It will be interesting to see if there's a quality centerman available in the next week. I happen to like Sam Gagner's game, though I can see where a team like Chicago might want a little more defensive grit than he offers. Matt Stajan? Steve Ott? Cody Eakin? Dave Legwand? Collin Wilson? Frans Nielsen? Travis Zajac? Olli Jokinen?

I'd probably say one of the two Preds on that list would make the most sense, but it might be tough for the Hawks to swing a deal with a division rival. Otherwise maybe try to get the Devils to punt in a deal for Zajac.

Sorry certainly didn't mean to discredit NY if it came that way. The Rangers are a very solid team up and down and played the Hawks very tough last night.

[M2]

Sorry certainly didn't mean to discredit NY if it came that way. The Rangers are a very solid team up and down and played the Hawks very tough last night.

You were fine. It's just that as a Rangers fan, I've learned to take credit for the team whenever possible because you never know when the next chance is going to arise.

[Joseph]

Well I was at the game last night between the Hawks and Pens and I can honestly say in totality it was my least favorite hockey experience ever.

Soldier field is very difficult to get into. We stayed at a hotel that was less than a mile from the place, but as it was pouring snow and we knew we'd be sitting outside all night we elected to take a cab. We left an hour before the game. I sat down in my seat just as the anthem was being sung. So technically I didn't miss any of the game, but I missed the pregame festivities.

Sitting in section 350, with the heavy snow, I could barely see and we were freezing to boot. Not that we didn't expect it to be cold.

First intermission, naturally bathroom time. By the time I got from my seat to a urinal and back, missed the whole intermission. By the time my wife made it back, she missed 11 minutes of the second period.

We watched another 3 or 4 minutes once she got back and I think we'd both had enough, so we took off.

After all was said and done, taxis aren't allowed near Soldier field so we had to walk blocks to catch one back to the hotel.

I think the whole night was painted by the fact that this Titan storm was coming through and we were basically both nervous about getting caught in it so we'd decided rather than staying the night we'd drive the 5 hours back home to Louisville that night.

So the truly bad part of the night came next. We made it about an hour south of Chicago to Merrillville, IN. Mile marker 241 to be precise. The wife was driving and went to change lanes to get around a slow moving car. Roads weren't clear, but there was ample asphalt to be seen. Well we must have caught a patch of ice or just passed through a bit of snow because we went left, right, back left and into the safety wires down the middle of the median. Thank God we didn't hit anyone else or cause a major blockage of the interstate, but my car is toast.

I think the game would have been bearable were it not for the night spent in Merrillville. The 120 rental car for a single night. The tow truck company that won't bring my car here.

All told though, we are safe and sound and back home, hoping to avoid the ice. Glad the Hawks won, even if I didn't really get to enjoy it.

Go Hawks.

[OldRightHander]

I think the Blues have forgotten that the object of the game is to score.

[OldRightHander]

I think the Blues have forgotten that the object of the game is to score.

When I posted that, they were down 2-0 and hadn't scored in...too darn long. Now they're up 3-2. This has been a heck of a third period.

[M2]

Major trade: Rangers move Ryan Callahan, a 2014 2nd round pick and a 2015 1st round pick to Tampa Bay for Martin St. Louis. Holy schnikes.

[Kingspoint]

Major trade: Rangers move Ryan Callahan, a 2014 2nd round pick and a 2015 1st round pick to Tampa Bay for Martin St. Louis. Holy schnikes.
Tampa Bay was obviously told to trade him as he wouldn't resign. The Lightning were set up for a Stanley Cup run. You don't trade your Captain when you're in that position unless you have no choice.

[Kingspoint]

The Hawks lost 4-2 to Colorado with Crawford adjusting to new pads, as his equipment was stolen from Soldier Field.

[Patrick Bateman]

Major trade: Rangers move Ryan Callahan, a 2014 2nd round pick and a 2015 1st round pick to Tampa Bay for Martin St. Louis. Holy schnikes.

I think a great deal for NY. Guys like Callahan aren't going to age well... a long term contract with him would have been a disaster.

Upgrading for 2 playoff runs with St. Louis is well worth the price they paid IMO.

[Tom Servo]

No words to describe how terribly run my Islanders are.

[MikeThierry]

No words to describe how terribly run my Islanders are.

abysmal?

[westofyou]

No words to describe how terribly run my Islanders are.

Sad?

[Tom Servo]

abysmal?


Sad?


Good choices, but they don't quite reach the level of soul-crushingingly bad incompetence I am looking for.

[Joseph]

Good choices, but they don't quite reach the level of soul-crushingingly bad incompetence I am looking for.

Cubsian?

[Revering4Blue]

No words to describe how terribly run my Islanders are.

As a Sabre's fan, I have no room to talk. Though, most, if not all of the talking heads are claiming that they (Buffalo) parlayed their assets into a nice future foundation. I'll believe it when it happens. So, yeah, I feel your pain.

[Revering4Blue]

The most surprising/unexpected player to be dealt has to be Roberto Luongo. Who saw that coming? Even more surprising is his ultimate destination -- a team far out of contention.

[MikeThierry]

The most surprising/unexpected player to be dealt has to be Roberto Luongo. Who saw that coming? Even more surprising is his ultimate destination -- a team far out of contention.

It's funny how fast the Canucks have gone into rebuilding mode.

[M2]

No words to describe how terribly run my Islanders are.

Millburian


It's funny how fast the Canucks have gone into rebuilding mode.

Amazing what happens when you give a skill team to John Tortorella. At the rate things are falling apart in Vancouver, I doubt he makes it to the end of the season.

[Tom Servo]

Cubsian?
http://www.reactiongifs.com/r/2014/01/well.gif


The most surprising/unexpected player to be dealt has to be Roberto Luongo. Who saw that coming? Even more surprising is his ultimate destination -- a team far out of contention.
Still trying to figure out there decision to ship Schneider to NJ in the offseason.

[OldRightHander]

How often in sports do you see a guy get traded twice in the span of a week? Maybe Halak should be happy he's not staying in Buffalo.

[5TimeWSChamps]

Rough night for CBJ last night in Chicago. Bought good seats for the game Tuesday against Detroit.

[texasdave]

Millburian



Amazing what happens when you give a skill team to John Tortorella. At the rate things are falling apart in Vancouver, I doubt he makes it to the end of the season.

I hear the Hanson brothers are available. :beerme:

[Kingspoint]

Rough night for CBJ last night in Chicago. Bought good seats for the game Tuesday against Detroit.
Coach had to do something about the Offense. Adding Andrew Shaw to Toews and Saad with Sharp going with the second line worked great. Only the second time Shaw was on the same line as Toews (since his first game with the Hawks) and it was like they had been playing together all year. Shaw and Toews each with a pair.

[5TimeWSChamps]

Poor sad Red Wings...

https://scontent-a-ord.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-prn2/t1/1966814_297493170401651_1388977564_n.jpg

[5TimeWSChamps]

CBJ got a point from SJ tonight. Could have won it. Hate going to shootouts.

Minnesota Saturday, then Carolina Tuesday.

[Kingspoint]

Portland is celebrating 100 years of Hockey this month. Portland was the first American team to win the Stanley Cup. The Portland Rosebuds are engraved on the bottom rung of the cup. When the last Portland Rosebuds team was disbanded, the remaining players were made into a new franchise,....the Chicago Blackhawks. The Blackhawks and the minor league Portland Winterhawks (since about 1975) have almost identical logos.

Just sayin'.

[Spitball]

If you appreciate hockey fights, you may enjoy this clip. My son showed me this minor league fight tonight. I love the ending.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Af82i_PD78k

[Joseph]

Crazy

[Spitball]

The Boston Bruins have won eight straight and are paying great defense and overall hockey.

[5TimeWSChamps]

Jackets got a HUGE 2 points tonight in Minnesota. Went down 2-0 in the shootout and came back and won.

[Joseph]

Hell of a game tonight in Chicago.

[Kingspoint]

Hell of a game tonight in Chicago.

Congrats to Quenneville!

Sucks about Kane....out three weeks.

[M2]

Rick Nash with the full heel turn last night in his return to Columbus. Plus, Derick Brassard with the game-winner (the Gaborik trade last year has turned out to be a bank heist for the Rangers). Big night for the ex-Blue Jackets in a big game. FWIW, I'm hoping Columbus hangs onto that final playoff spot (because the Caps are despicable and the Wings are a poor team being kept afloat by OT losses).


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NBGHtLb7kJ8

[westofyou]

The Wings are a good team being dragged down by the most injuries in the league. But that said unless they get some guys back their place in the playoffs wouldn't be a good match

[M2]

The Wings are a good team being dragged down by the most injuries in the league. But that said unless they get some guys back their place in the playoffs wouldn't be a good match

Fair point, they've been battered. I just hate it when teams stay in contention thanks to OT loss points. The Caps are doing it too. On the other hand, Toronto suddenly looks in danger of falling apart. Ottawa has popped and the Rangers all but stuck a fork in the Devils last night. So it looks like Toronto, Detroit, Columbus and D.C. fighting for the final two spots in the East (provided the Lightning, Canadiens, Flyers and Rangers don't create trouble for themselves).

[MikeThierry]

Good win by the Blues against the Pens after the duds in Chicago and Philly

[OldRightHander]

Good win by the Blues against the Pens after the duds in Chicago and Philly

That was a tough game. I had the feeling at the start of the 2nd period that it was going to be a 1-0 game. It seemed a lot like a playoff game.

[MikeThierry]

After watch the Blues beat Toronto last night, I was offended as a hockey fan at how bad Toronto's defense was. They literally have the worst defense I've seen all year of any team we've played. It's amazing how incompetent that team is and how much the ownership pays for that incompetence.

[Spitball]

I have to believe the Bruins are the absolute class of the East, if not the entire NHL. I see the Bruins in the SC finals versus the Blues. I see them as very similar teams.

[Patrick Bateman]

No question they are best in the East, but they haven't had to fight through the top teams in the West all year. I think whoever gets out of the West almost has to be the favourite. No question Boston is also in that class.

[Spitball]

I agree, but although tonight's game was at home, it shows they are capable of beating one of the west's best. Personally, I hope they are not peaking too soon.

[MikeThierry]

That was an exciting game between the Flyers and Blues and had the feel of a playoff game.

[Kingspoint]

Blackhawks are going to have to win on the road as a #5 seed this season. Doesn't matter so much in the NHL, but it does come up on occasion where the advantage goes to the home team in the 7th game.

I love 'em, but I can't see them winning four series (possible) while not having home-ice in any of them.

St. Louis is my favorite to win it all this year. They seem the most dominant to me.

[OldRightHander]

That was an exciting game between the Flyers and Blues and had the feel of a playoff game.

Most exciting 1-0 I've seen in a while. Both goalies were sharp.

[OldRightHander]

Last night was something of a surreal experience. With the rain delay the Reds/Cards game ended shortly before the puck drop of the Blues game, which meant that within a couple minutes I went from rooting vehemently against a team from St. Louis to rooting for one. Weird.

[Joseph]

Last night was something of a surreal experience. With the rain delay the Reds/Cards game ended shortly before the puck drop of the Blues game, which meant that within a couple minutes I went from rooting vehemently against a team from St. Louis to rooting for one. Weird.

How do you sleep at night?

[5TimeWSChamps]

Well, last night was a kick in the balls for the Jackets.

[Joseph]

They were in control most of that game too. I'm no Jackets fan, but I want hockey to succeed in Columbus big time.

I still think they make the playoffs.

[Reds/Flyers Fan]

How about the AVS!!! They've now beaten every team in the NHL with today's dismantling of the Blues in STL. And they're starting to get into some teams heads, like the Blackhawks. They're as legit a Stanley Cup threat as there is. And they're doing all of this without Matt Duchene and Alex Tanguay. They'll get Dutchy back for the playoffs.

Go Colorado!

[Patrick Bateman]

I doubt they are "in the heads" of the Blackhawks. This is a team that has won the Cup 2 out of 4 years. They know they can beat anyone.

The Avalanche have a lot of good things going for them and are set up great for the future, but at the end of the day their defense still has a lot of problems, and is only +20 in goal differential. From my perspective there are a number of teams with much better chances of winning a Stanley Cup. I could see them stealing a series from the Hawks in the first round but have trouble seeing them being able to run the gauntlet that is the West. Just too many strong, well established teams.

[M2]

Blue Jackets are one win away from the playoffs. Looks like them and Detroit for the final two spots in the East. Toronto and Ottawa were eliminated tonight. The Caps are on their last legs. Some very unhappy franchises in that conference. In the West, the newly GM-less Canucks look like the only team that's truly stunned and amazed by its playoff miss. Got to assume Torts will get the ax once the season ends.

[MikeThierry]

I'm officially on the "well we aren't the Cubs of the NHL for nothing" bandwagon. The Blues are choking like a dog eating a bone that's too big. I will always be a die hard Blues fan but this is the same damn story we have seen year after year. Spectacular regular season, falter down the stretch, and become an epic fail in the playoffs. They should be ashamed for the way they're playing right now.

[M2]

I'm officially on the "well we aren't the Cubs of the NHL for nothing" bandwagon. The Blues are choking like a dog eating a bone that's too big. I will always be a die hard Blues fan but this is the same damn story we have seen year after year. Spectacular regular season, falter down the stretch, and become an epic fail in the playoffs. They should be ashamed for the way they're playing right now.

I think the Maple Leafs qualify as the official Cubs of the NHL. The Blues are more like the Seattle Mariners of the NHL.

[westofyou]

I think the Maple Leafs qualify as the official Cubs of the NHL. The Blues are more like the Seattle Mariners of the NHL.

Bill Barilko agrees

[Patrick Bateman]

Relax Mike, they have been coasting for so long now, hard to care for that long of stretches. The Blues will have a different level come playoff time.

[MikeThierry]

Relax Mike, they have been coasting for so long now, hard to care for that long of stretches. The Blues will have a different level come playoff time.

Not the way we are playing. If we lose the division title and have to play Chicago in the first round, the Blues will more than likely be out in the first round. As of right now, the Avs just took control of the division lead.

[Reds/Flyers Fan]

I could see them stealing a series from the Hawks in the first round but have trouble seeing them being able to run the gauntlet that is the West. Just too many strong, well established teams.

Avalanche now in first place ahead of the Blues and Blackhawks. Stay there and force STL and CHI to battle it out in the first round and get rid of one of those teams.

This Avs team is incredible and so much fun to watch!

[Patrick Bateman]

No question the ending of the season is playing out great for the Avs, and very much deserved with the way they are playing. Veyr bright future.

[MikeThierry]

In a week and a half, the Blues will be playing on the golf course. I have no faith in this damn team right now, esp. with all the injuries we have.

[Tom Servo]

Weird seeing Brodeur all but say goodbye to NJ. He has been the goalie for the Devils almost as long as I've been alive.

[IslandRed]

I hadn't posted in this thread because the Predators gave me no cause, but I'm amazed they'll finish tenth (or even ninth) in the West, given that Rinne missed most of the year. Hopefully the rebuild will be far enough along next year for them to get back in the playoff mix.

[Joseph]

Do you think you fire Trotz this year IslandRed?

[IslandRed]

Do you think you fire Trotz this year IslandRed?

I don't think he deserves to be fired by normal standards. They finished about where most people thought they would given the talent on hand, and maybe higher than people would have predicted if they'd known Rinne would miss so much time. The team certainly didn't quit on him. But 15 years is an epoch in modern-day coaching runs, and it seems like he and Poile aren't on the same page as much as they used to be. There's a good argument to be made for new blood, and if I had to put money on it I'd guess he won't be back. He'll get another job down the road, I'm pretty sure.

The other interesting question is whether Poile is also safe, or if ownership will decide it's time for new blood across the board.

[Patrick Bateman]

Jarnkrok is going to be a player for them. Something to look forward to.

[M2]

All right, 1st round prediction time.

Bruins-Red Wings: Boston's playing like an absolute beast and Detroit is still missing too many key players. Best the Wings can hope for is to soften up the Bruins a bit for the next team.

Penguins-Blue Jackets: Columbus plays playoff-style hockey. They're going to test the dentistry of the Penguins. Meanwhile Pittsburgh has health issues abound and has been a fairly average team in calendar year 2014. I'm thinking upset here.

Lightning-Canadiens: The Ben Bishop injury really changes the calculus on this one. Unless Tampa Bay can get a lot of offense from its blue line (and it has a bunch of capable puck movers back there), Carey Price would seem to be the deciding factor. Boston-Montreal in round two. We're going back to the Adams Division.

Rangers-Flyers: New York gets distributed production, Philly rides its top line. Ultimately, one team has King Henrik and the other has Steve Mason (plus a shaky defense). Rangers look to be better constructed for the playoffs.

Ducks-Stars: Dallas' late push into the playoffs was a nice story, but the Ducks are sending them home for the summer, possibly riding a broom.

Avalanche-Wild: Colorado's division win was super impressive, but it is now stuck against a team that knows how to grind. Minnesota will make it ugly, however the Avalanche ride their firepower advantage to a win.

Sharks-Kings: Classic regular season team vs. playoff team matchup. Hard to believe the playoff team (the Kings) won't hand the Sharks their heads.

Blues-Blackhawks: Two of the nominal favorites to win the Cup limped to the finish line and now they find themselves exactly where neither one wanted to be (facing each other in the 1st round). It's ending early for one of these teams. Chicago supposedly is getting Toews and Kane back for game 1. Meanwhile the Blues are battered and in terrible form. Combine that with the Blackhawks' playoff nous and Chicago should be moving on.

[IslandRed]

There's a good argument to be made for new blood, and if I had to put money on it I'd guess he (Barry Trotz) won't be back.

That didn't take long.

http://tnne.ws/1jEwfhC

[Kingspoint]

Joseph and others,...are the Blackhawks going to try to keep Toews after this season? They've let a lot of good players leave over the years and you can't keep everyone. He had his best health in three years and proves time and again that he thrives in big series and big games. He's a UFA when this is over. Where's the money going to come from?

[Patrick Bateman]

Toews wont be going anywhere. The Hawks like everyone knows how important he is. The Hawks have always managed the cap in a way that they can keep Kane and Toews. At the moment they probably don't know exactly how much money they have to work with until we find out the final cap numbers, but they have been extending guys to long term deals for cost certainty, with the increasing cap will continue making guys affordable.

They will for sure have to move some guys to make it happen... candidates in my mind will be Seabrook, Oduya, Leddy, Crawford.... ie. all guys who have trade value and some cap hit... they can likely continue adding some prospects while at the same time as removing cap... the fact that all of these guys are contriubting and aren't holding NMC is what keeps the Hawks out of trouble. Teams like the Canucks, Flyers, Flames have had trouble with this because they give the player all of the cards as to where they can go, and often extend guys who aren't even worth their contracts... makes it almost impossible to move them. Hawks will have flexibility, and you can bet they will offer market contracts to Toews/Kane... only reason I could imagine either moving is if they simply didn't want to be Blackhawks anymore for whatever reason, but I would consider that to be pretty unlikely at this point with the core they have built, success they have had, and the fact they have played their careers here to date. Just can't see how they would pass that up.

[krm1580]

I normally have a lot of faith the Red Wings front office but I think they were desperate and they overpaid for Legwand. Jarnkrok was their top prospect in 12/13 and with them making the playoffs the draft pick turns into a second round pick. It was a lot when you look at the deal for guys like Vanek and Hemsky.

[Kingspoint]

Emery hoping to capture that magic he had with the Hawks when he went 17-1-0.

From Rotoworld w/ Rotoworld comments:

Ray Emery will play in Game 1 of Philadelphia's series against the New York Rangers.

Steve Mason is dealing with an upper-body injury, so the Flyers need Emery to step up in his absence. Emery is certainly capable of doing that, but he struggled in the regular season with a 2.96 GAA and .903 save percentage in 28 games.

Source: Frank Seravalli on Twitter

[Patrick Bateman]

God help the Flyers.

[Joseph]

Guy should have signed on to be a backup and rode the glory train.

[M2]

God help the Flyers.

The Rangers have the lowest shooting percentage of any team in the playoffs. They'll make Emery look good.

[Joseph]

It's go time.

[M2]

Rangers channeled the late '70s Canadiens. Talk about puck domination. They might have broken Fenwick.

[Kingspoint]

Hoping Sharp, Toews and Kane can get one more on their last time out there in the third.

[Kingspoint]

Rangers channeled the late '70s Canadiens. Talk about puck domination. They might have broken Fenwick.

Emery came through as expected.

[Kingspoint]

One more turnover by the Hawks and the Blues are going to tie this.

[OldRightHander]

One more turnover by the Hawks and the Blues are going to tie this.

I certainly hope so.

[Kingspoint]

Hoping Sharp, Toews and Kane can get one more on their last time out there in the third.

Of course, the lines are changing so often, it's a small window when the three of them are out there together.

[Kingspoint]

I certainly hope so.

Almost...

[Kingspoint]

There it was...turnover...sort of...the Chicago player couldn't get it out of there. Dang it.

Nice pressure by St. Louis. Chicago's players were tired, but so was St. Louis'. Good effort by the Blues there.

[OldRightHander]

That was such a typical playoff goal.

- - - Updated - - -

Schwartz deserved a goal the way he's played.

[Kingspoint]

Hoping for some Hossa magic in OT.

[Kingspoint]

Chicago being outhit as usual.

[M2]

Emery came through as expected.

He actually had a good game. The Rangers were all over him. His team couldn't hold the puck and his defense hung him out to dry. I assume Berube read them the riot act after the game.

[Kingspoint]

He actually had a good game. The Rangers were all over him. His team couldn't hold the puck and his defense hung him out to dry. I assume Berube read them the riot act after the game.

Thanks for the clarification. I really didn't see the game, obviously. Congrats to the Rangers.

[OldRightHander]

This could be a long night the way this one is going.

[Kingspoint]

This could be a long night the way this one is going.

This is how I struggle with weight....staying up too late and eating something I shouldn't be eating.

Thought it was over late in the OT when the goal was left open by the Blackhawks.

[OldRightHander]

Well, two games for the price of one tonight.

[OldRightHander]

That didn't take long. Steen ends it. 1-0 Blues.

[Kingspoint]

This is going to be a long series.

[Kingspoint]

Some notes from last night around the league....

From Rotoworld w/ Rotoworld comments:

The NHL will be revewing an alleged obscene gesture made by Chicago coach Joel Quenneville during Thursday night's triple-overtime game against the Blues.

Quenneville was upset that a delay of game penalty was not called when a Blues' player shot the puck over the glass during the second overtime period and seemed to grab his crotch after failing to get the call. Stay tuned to see if there will be any disciplinary action levied against Quenneville.

Source: Chris Kuc Twitter


.....The St. Louis Blues' 4-3 win over Chicago was the eighth time in history that Game 1 of a first round series went to triple overtime.

The last seven times, the team that took Game 1 ended up claiming the series. Obviously, that's a small sample size and a very unusual scenario, but it's a neat little factoid for Blues fans.

Source: Nick Cotsonika on Twitter


.....If it wasn't for an unbelievable insipirational play by Colorado defenseman Erik Johnson the Avalanche would be down one game to the Wild.

With time winding down in Thursday's opening game of the playoffs between the Avs and the Wild and with Minnesota leading 4-3 and the Colorado net empty for an extra attacker, Johnson raced back and swatted the puck out of the crease and then crashed into the goalpost saving a sure empty-net goal. The play rallied his teammates, and specifically Paul Stastny, who scored the tying and then the winning goal in overtime.

[Joseph]

Such a frustrating game today for the Hawks. Nothing better than playoff hockey though.

[Joseph]

That was not a dirty hit. And we get screwed.

[Joseph]

Might as well give this to the Blues. The officials are sure trying.