05-06 NHL Discussion Thread
 

Better known as the Ottawa Senators Discussion, this thread is making a triumphant comeback. Discuss all NHL news and scores.

God it's hard to be a Boston fan. On the plus side, after the olympics... at least we know trading Thornton was the right move.

Its kinda hard for me to talk about hockey after that beating the Lightning took the other night...good lord. 7-0 against the Panthers.

I live in Boston (whine) and I support the Penguins (also whine).

Good news for Pittsburgh fans: if the Penguins won the rest of their games (22 = 44 points = 83 points total) it's possible they could still make the playoffs!

Bad news for Pittsburgh fans: if the Penguins won the rest of their games (22 = 44 points = 83 points total) it's possible they could still make the playoffs and lose out on another high draft pick!

At least none of you have to be Penguin fans right now. Bottom of the NHL, again. Oh well, may as well keep it that way now, and end up with a lottery pick. We have many very good young players, and they look poised to really break out any season now.

Where's that dead-horse smiley?

I'm not a big hockey fan, but damn, the Carolina Hurricanes are playing hella good this year. I had no idea they've been playing so well. I'm surely gonna keep track on them throughout the season.

Hey look! A bandwagon jumper! :)

What are you talking about? I live in NC, dummy. :P Can't be a bandwagon jumper if you weren't on one from the start.

You didn't notice they were doing good, but now that you do you're going to pay attention to them. That's called jumping on the bandwagon. ESPECIALLY if you hadn't paid attention to them before.

umm... no sir, you are incorrect. A bandwagon jumper is someone who roots for one team, say in the playoffs or something, and when they lose start rooting for another team. I haven't been paying attention to them because I haven't been paying attention to HOCKEY IN GENERAL, especialy after the lockout. Not once did I mention that I was rooting for them to wni it all or anything like that. I just said I'd be keeping tabs on them to see how far they'd go. So yeah, work on your terminology. :)

Sorry, my bad.

You're a fair-weather fan. That's more accurate. :)

LOL! "fair-weather fan"? I don't think I've ever heard that term before. What does it mean?

Wow Bishop is smart. Please don't post in here if you have no idea what you're talking about.

Not directed at Dopey

OK Capo, you've confused me. :)

Take a wild guess.

So, are you being sarcastic?

It's so hard to convey on the internet...

If I had to guess (because it makes me feel better to do so), you are. :)

It's great to be a Rangers fan right about now.

This isn't a legit NHL season thread untill Fire On Ice posts in here.

Hey guys just posting to say the sens won. Come back soon Dominator :(

Things should get interesting going down the stretch. The Wings/Canes/Sens are all really close to each other and a couple other teams aren't too far off like the Rangers/Stars/SABRESSSSSSSSSSSS/etc.

I'm also interested to see if any other big names are moved around before the trade deadline next week. Obviously there have been some big names moving already this season with Sergei Fedorov, Joe Thornton, Doug Weight etc. having already been shuffled around. I imagine we'll see a couple more decent moves before next Thursday as well.

I am again angered by my team's refusal to invest in a quality goaltender, yet they continue to pay Jovanovski, one of the single most overrated defensemen in the league, over five MILLION dollars to not hit, pretend he's Bobby Orr and try a mad rush up the ice before losing the puck and directly causing a goal, and lob weak wristers at the opponent's net from the blue line.

Dear Florida: I will give you whatever you want for Roberto Luongo. Please write back soon.

Well, Toronto lost..... again. Heh, I'm pretty sure their out of the playoffs now. If not, then their changes are very very slim. Stupid Toronto! They really need to fix up their defense.

HAHA! Take that STUPID LEAFS!

Well, we'd like...

You know, just take him. It's not like there's anything any team could give us that would allow us to compete. So just take him, and get some good use out of him.

It's almost been a week and still no Fire On Ice post. What is this fucking world coming to?

I may as well close this thread now, then.

One of the first bigger trades before the deadline happened today.

http://www.nhl.com/news/2006/03/263042.html

Minnesota acquires Edmonton's 2006 first round pick in exchange for Roloson. Edmonton needs a goalie badly so this will defenitly help them out.

Just wanted to let everyone know you'll be seeing Sebastien Caron on Sportscenter's Not Top Ten this week. He let in a shot from the faceoff circle on the opposite side of the ice. :)

On the plus side, Colorado got Jose Theodore. Even though hes been sidelined, I think this was a really good trade for Colorado. Still, it was mainly a money issue. I think they said Jose's salary was 4.6 million and the other goalie's (can't remember name) was 1.6 million

The Habs won that deal. Aiebisher is much better than Theodore.

Not much unlike their NBA brethren (Chauncey Billups and Ron Mercer), the Boston Bruins have traded away the two biggest names from their 1997 draft, with Sergei Samsonov being shipped to Edmonton for Marty Reasoner, Jan Stastny and Edmonton's second-round pick this summer. Will the similarities continue? Well, maybe between Mercer and Samsonov, but Jumbo Joe is probably not going to end up winning (m)any championships or MVP trophies.

I can't believe that the Pens fucking traded Mark Recchi. You think our team is terrible now just wait.


However now I can say that I defenitly want the Canes to win the Cup I would think. To be honest with you I would like anyone to win the cup as long as that team is not the Flyers.

Far as trading goes, sabres traded mika norenen for a draft pick because we had two very good goalies and one great one.

Anyways, did anyone watch the Sabres/Lightning game yesterday because it was just sick. Was one of the most entertaining games i have seen all year. Ended up being 8-5 sabres, but it went 1-0 Sabres, 2-1 TB, 3-2 Sabres, 3-3, 4-3 Sabres, 4-4, 5-4 Sabres, 5-5, and then sabres scored three morre goals in the last 10 minutes of the 3rd period. Sick sick game. Both goales had an off night, but more so TBs goalie, I forgot his name. At least Miller only allowed 3 goals really, 2 were not even his fault.

Oh and two points behind now sup.

http://www.nhl.com/standings/index.html

Yeah his -20something +/- was really a big help, wasn't it?

That's not really fair when there are a total of three players on your team with a positive +/-. Ignore also, of course, that he was second in team scoring or whatever. But don't worry. You don't need to score goals to win games!

I like how Brent is right and Dopefish is a fucking idiot.

Sorry, but calling a train-wreck anything other than a train-wreck doesn't change the fact that it is actually a train-wreck. Mark Wreck-i might do some good for the 'Canes but there's no one player on this planet that is going to bring the Penguins out of the cellar right now and I don't think Mark would've exploded for 60 points in the last 20 or so games.

I'm not saying keeping him would've been a bad idea (veteran support FTW), but there was probably some behind-the-scenes stuff going on that made him want to waive his no-trade clause...not to mention the fact that Carolina is in first place.

Give the Pens a few years, they'll be in the hunt.

Recchi was the best player we had. You can't single handedly make a +/-. Look at the team. It's him and Crosby (Well it was). That was it.

Last three games Sabres insannnnnnneeeee. 8-5 over the lightning, 6-5 over the flyers (won with 4 seconds left, and now 6-2 over the Bruins to take a 6-0 season lead over them. 16-0-1 this year against the Flyers, Bruins and Lightning. Also, Afinogenov had a penalty shot goal and Thomas Vanek scored one of the greatest goals this year.

Also that makes 6 wins in a row for the third time this year. Highest was 7 I think.

Had 11 straight goals by different players. Every line is the #1 line, there is no distinction.


Ownin like wut.

So how about these pink sticks that some of the players are going to have this weekend.

I don't know how you guys feel but I can't wait untill NHL games are brought to you by TAMPAX.

Won't be long, especially with the players starting to show a more sensitive side. One not afraid to let the tear ducts flow.

*looks at Crosby*

Bruins fire O'Connell! :wave: :rock: :edgarrock:

Go wings!

I watch hockey every time its on.

From Michigan as you can tell.

Holy shit, the Lightning are looking better each game. Could it be that their actually FINALLY back in playoff form!?

My question is what is happening in the NW division? Only Colorado has a winning record over the last 10 games, and just barely. It is a very tight race, and it almost seems no one wants it. C'mon Flames!

Dallas clinches the Pacific Division with the win against Anaheim tonight. That one was a nail biter until Kapanen got that empty netter with like 30s left.

Sadly, though, Modano seems to be hurt pretty bad after taking an awkward fall. :/

Haha. I like how the Pens beat the Panthers 5-1 tonight and now the Panthers cant make the playoffs.


Hows it going Sonne?

I like how the Habs are on an 8 game winning streak. Cristo-WALL Huet is awesome.

Oh so you guys arent using Aiebisher anymore?

I remember when we played you that one game and destroyed him.

Consider it legitimated.

injuries like woah, I think the sens had 8 of our top players out a game or two ago, I'm amazed they won against the rangers though. Hoping Hasek is back for the playoffs.

Holy crap. You're about a month and a week late but better late then never.

Meh, he made us win against the Sens the other day. He's alright I guess.

sorry to let you down wojo but my uncle died and we've been down with my cousin's for a little while and I haven't had a lot of time to get onto GFF until recently.

@mucknuggle: yeah, aiebisher plus we were missing 6 of our best players. I say stick with huet

Double Post:
good lord, how did we lose to the sabres 6 - 2? I guess this is the price for having copious ammounts of injuries on a normally great team although is it a great opportunity to see how the younger players pull through in a pinch.

Oh hell yes sup Fire + Ice. This thread is FINALLY back in full swing.

go sens~

Injuries are beating the hell out of the Canes right now too. Over the past few weeks we've lost or had out for at least a game or two Doug Weight, Ray Whitney, Nic Wallin, Frank Kaberle, Bret Hedican, Cory Stillman, etc. etc. And Erik Cole is likely not to return at all for the postseason.

I guess it doesn't matter so much right now because unless the Red Wings play without sticks for the rest of the season, they are pretty much a lock on the Presidents Trophy. And we did win the Southeast Division a couple weeks back. It just sucks watching this slump at the end of the regular season, although it has been happening with a lot of the big name teams.

I've really been impressed lately with Montreal's turnaround. After beating them in all 4 contests in the regular season, I figured playing them in the playoffs wouldn't be a big deal. But that is definately not the case anymore. Huet like what.

damn straight

I'm really hoping we can beat those damn Habs tonight so that we can stay at the top of the eastern conference, "We're just short of first place!" just doesn't have the same ring to it.

EDIT: >8U WIN DAMMIT! 4 in a row losses is unacceptabele!

Hey, you got 1st in the east back. :chara: was clearly the defining factor of course.

And once again Carolina must claw back to retake the top spot. With only 3 games to go, it may not happen. We'll see.

I like how the Habs defeated Ottawa twice in a row, and we didn't even have Cristo-wall Huet in net.

the Western Conference is starting to take shape with the final three slots to get locked up in the coming days... for me it's a preference of who I'd like Anaheim to face in the first round...
With three games left... four points behind Nashville... it looks like we might be resigned to 5th in the west and would face Nashville in the opening round. Could be interesting if it remains that way...

I'm really impressed that Nashville is doing so well this year. Finally breaking 100 points in a season. It's been quite a shocker.

Can someone tell me why Buffalo has had the Habs number this season? We lost to them again. Annoying.

Yeah, I thought they were the hottest team in the league? HRRHHRRHRHRHRHHRRHRR. Well they technically are. =p But that first period for the canadiens was the biggest joke ever. Wasn't much better later.

SABRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRR RRRRRRRRRRRRRREEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEESSS

Google Image Search for "brett hull foot crease" yielded 1 result(s):

http://www.sharkspage.com/jpgs2/bretthull_nogoal.jpg

Of course, you can see his foot is not in the crease am I rite? ;_;

But now that you brought that up look at the crease. Its FUCILLO HUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUGE compared to now.

And Detroilt is the hottest team in the league anyway. Everybody was wrong. They probably have been the hottest team in the league all season. fuckin 40 games over.

who the fuck let MORRISON in the net and for the love of god WHY?! >8U I DEMAND ANSWERS!

terrible, terrible goal in overtime to give the Panthers the victory. We scored with 2 seconds to go in order to get there and he KILLED it. I swear if we don't win against the Leafs tomorrow...well let's hope we don't.

:chara: liek woah

Marty St.Louis! 10 seconds left in OT gives the Lightning the extra point. Now we just need one more point.

This happened again tonight. What is this.

Oh it's just one of the few sports teams from Buffalo that do good being good.

Don't spoil it, OK.

I'm allowed to be bitter. I know their goalie coach.

5 - 1 :cussing:

at least the leafs are dead now anyways, thank you Tampa bay :rolleyes:

Yes they are dead. 6-0 Buffalo over the Leafs. They are always great games because half of the fans at the Arena are the opposing team.

Well. Everyone's slated for the playoffs:

Eastern Conference

Ottawa vs. Tampa Bay
Carolina vs. Montreal
New Jersey vs. N.Y. Rangers
Buffalo vs. Philadelphia


Western Conference

Detroit vs. Edmonton
Dallas vs. Colorado
Calgary vs. Anaheim
Nashville vs. San Jose


Picks anyone?

here's hoping edmonton will be the playoffs number one upset chance.

I think the best playoff finals matchup would be the Sens against the Flames. Both teams are very fast and they can both be very skilled with their plays. Also, they're only a few goals away from each other at the bottom of the goals against list. Matching up the two teams who have let the least ammount of goals in this season would be a match I'd pay BIG money to see.

Sens/Red Wings would be a much better series. Calgary can be a fast team (at least, they have a couple of fast players) but they play in such a strict defensive system that they never get to show it. It's like Minnesota but with more skilled players. Iginla only had 35 goals and he was the highest scoring player on the team by TEN GOALS. That is not an offensive team.

Matching up the two teams who scored the MOST goals rather than surrendered the least (The difference between Detroit's and Ottawa's goals against is much closer than the difference between Ottawa's and Calgary's, anyway) is one I'd pay a lot MORE to see.

Also, matching up the two teams who surrendered the least goals in the cup finals would be impossible, because that would be Calgary vs. Detroit.

Edit: I put my picks in my journal for self reference, let me go dig them up.

Detroit in 4
San Jose in 5
Dallas in 6
Calgary in 7

Carolina in 5
New York in 7
Ottawa in 5
Buffalo in 5

I was hoping we'd get Carolina in the playoffs, but unfortunatley we get a team we haven't beaten in 2 seasons. Sadly, I agree that the Lightning will be out in probably 5 games, unless a miracle occurs.

I think the best series this round will be the Devils and Rangers. I'm interested to see if the Devils can remain hot in the playoffs, and if Yagr can continue to get it done in the 2nd season.

yeah, I'm kinda silently cheering for the devils, I've always liked them, I'm not really sure why though. I hope they go far, but just far enough so that we beat them :D

How can you cheer for the Devils when they knocked your home team off in the conference finals? Fuck those trapping faggots.

I'm also silently cheering for the Devils since my friend who got me into hockey in the first place is from Jersey, so i'm somewhat partial to the Devils.

I'm kinda upset that we didn't finish 1st in the east but it'll be fun watching the Bolts get owned by the Sens. Somehow I doubt John Grahame will be carrying them anywhere in the postseason.

go canes~

I think my ideal matchups would be Dallas/Detroit in the west and Ottawa/Carolina in the east. Those would both be bitchin' series.

Because I'm a huge Martin Brodeur fan and back when they knocked us out of the conference, Patrick Lalime wasn't exactly in his prime. I'm a big Lalime fan too, don't get me wrong. I just think that as long as they don't get in OUR way, what harm could it do to cheer for them at least a little?

I'm calling this right now.

Detriot in 4
Colorado in 6
Calgary in 7
San Jose in 5

Ottawa in 4
Carolina in 5
New Jersey in 6
Buffalo in 4

Calgary over Anaheim was the toughest to decide. Detriot is gonna rape, no doubt. I'm calling a sweep by Buffalo 'cause Philly's not been playing well lately, they've won 3/4 against Philly, and they've been hot lately.

The harm in cheering for them is that it actively promotes the most mind-numbing style of hockey the NHL has ever seen. I fell asleep twice during the finals between Anaheim and Jersey.

And Lalime sucks lolol.

So it looks like tonight's the night we (Calgary Flames) go head to head with the Ducks. I'm just wondering how the public will receive the Red Mile this time around with the police. Not that I'm against partying and the like nor some middle ground for public order.

Fixed.

Some friends of mine are scalping tickets over MSN Messenger. It's so sad.

*cheer* FSN was kind enough to pick up the Anaheim games so I wouldn't have to try to find a sports bar nearby that would be showing the games (instead of the typical basketball and baseball crap they tend to show).

I have my Anaheim jersey on... a new keg of Guinness being delivered this afternoon... people coming over this evening to watch the game. Should be a fun evening.
I have hopes for Anaheim... really I do but there have been times in the last few games that made me wonder if they are actually going to shape-up and start playing how they were playing in the months prior? Calgary is going to be a tough team to beat, but we've faced worse in the first round and come away amazing critics everywhere.

Fine how about Canes in 3? Yea they'll find a way to win in 3 games don't ask me how they just will :lolsign:

Seriously though it should be a great series and i'd rather watch us play the Habs then the lame Bolts.

Go Canes~

Montreal's goin' down, sorry.

Preds beat Sharks 4-3 tonight. Pulling for Nashville in 5.

Not a bad night tonight, could've been better if the Oil had pulled through in OT - but still with the sens beating tb, and calgary killing anaheim - it's started out as an awesome playoffs :)

Now if only I can find either a desktop or a screensaver with the playoff ladder.

In a surprise twist, winner of the series in 7? Boston Bruins.:lolsign:

Official standings as of tonight:

Edmonton at Detroit, 2-3 Final 2OT, Red Wings lead series 1-0

Tampa Bay at Ottawa, 1-4 Final, Senators lead series 1-0

San Jose at Nashville, 3-4 Final, Predators lead series 1-0

Anaheim at Calgary, 1-2 FinalOT, Flames lead series 1-0

I like how now that the Bolts are my home team that they are becoming weak.

Watch the Panthers take the Bolts playoff spot next season while I'm up in Orlando.

Wow. That was funny tonight watching the Bolts. Jesus, lets play retarded hockey and turn the puck over. Looked good for 2 1/3 periods, until the lapse defense took over in the 3rd.

Killing? Seriously? They won 2-1 and took 30 shots. The only thing that game killed was my desire to stay awake for extended periods of it.

Killing? Apparently you weren't watching the game then... there was no killing. It was a win for Calgary but they had to wrok their ass off for it. It wasn't one of those skewed games that were total mis-matches. Anaheim played a good game last night, as did Calgary. Calgary just managed to get Bryzgalov off guard. I know I was a bit shocked when I saw the puck hit the back of the net considering he had been doing fairly well all night stopping the shots.

I'd have to agree with Niekon, they were looking exhausted out there not only in over time but in the end of the third, I was at the point where I just wanted someone to score so they wouldn't look so tired out there.

I was dying watching the Sens and Bolts play, we were a mess until the third. I dunno what Brian Murray said in the dressing room between the 2nd and 3rd but it sure as hell worked.

I like how the rangers got raped. Also, Montreal's up 2-1. :)

EDIT: 4-1 now, we better not blow our lead!

FINAL SCORE: HABS 6 - CAROLINA 1

WHOOOOO!

So wow that was one of the best games ever. Am i rite.

3-2 Sabres 2OT. Game went to 7 mins left in that OT. It should have been over by three periods, but stupid Lydman took a shooting the puck out of play penalty.

Shots 57-20 something in favor of Buffalo too. Esche had the game of his life and he loses. It should have been like 5-2 at least.

Also did anyone see the hit Campbell made on Undemburg. It was kind of hard to miss considering it was one of the crazyiest hits I have ever seen. Someone make a video of it.

Guys, serious question here - should I buy some scalped playoff tickets off of a friend for Carolina @ Montreal? I'm really tempted, but I've got finals...

It's Umberger you twit.

Standings after tonights games:


NY Rangers at New Jersey, 1-6 Final, Devils lead series 1-0

Colorado at Dallas, 5-2 Final, Avalanche lead series 1-0

Philadelphia at Buffalo, 2-3 Final 2OT, Sabres lead series 1-0

Montreal at Carolina, 6-1 Final, Canadiens lead series 1-0

Man, the Habs really outplayed us last night. You guys deserved that win for sure Muck. I would definately try to get tickets if you can, but scalped? Eh. I have tickets to tomorrow night's game here and i'm HOPING for a much better effort on our part.

And does anyone prefer having 20 minute continuous OT periods in the playoffs? It's exciting sure, but i'd rather have them follow the regular series format and do 5 minute 4 on 4 OT followed by the shootout. Am I alone in thinking this?

I think you are. The shootout is fine for the regular season, but playoff games are meant to be played as a team until a winner is decided. You can strip away every traditional element of hockey for all I care, but keep continuous OT in the playoffs.

Rangers suck, see you in October

I agree with Skate, full team OT is a must for games in the playoffs. It just wouldn't be the same without it.

same here, I've never been a big fan of shootouts and it's not just because ottawa is terrible at them, although I do see the sense in having them there instead of tiring your players out beyond comparison. I noticed some of the teams were really tired after the regular 60 and a shootout would have saved them the exhaustion. Still, I'm glad it's the way it is.

Save them the exhaustion? It's only the way these things have been done for the last 85+ years. There's a reason the Stanley Cup is the most sought-after trophy in sports; the road to get there is tougher than any other postseason in any sport.

Someone on 4chan did.

Best hit ever.

hense why I said I liked the fact that they kept shootouts in the regular season instead of infecting the plaoffs with them.

You gotta have the classic hockey 20 minute overtime in the playoffs. It makes for some of the greatest struggles in hockey. Some of the greatest games in sports I've seen have been double, triple overtime battles that have so many close calls.

Also, don't forget that if that one game three years back doesn't go to 5 overtimes, we don't get to hear George Karl bitch about the shit referee call a hundred times.

WHAT. That dude got creamed! Does he have any injuries from that?

I would be liable to start killing people if they tried to decide playoff games through a shootout.

Nothing else in professional sports has the same electrifying epic feel that a triple or quadruple overtime NHL playoff game has. Baseball keeps going, sure, but it's not nearly the same pace and excitement.

A shootout is also the shittiest way ever to lose a game. If you've ever played any kind of organized sport and lost a shoout game, god it sucks. It makes you feel so helpless to have all this work and time you've put in come down to one short, regimented drill.

Edit:: Wow, that was a solid hit. His face had concussion written all over it.

Man, Preds played horrible today. I couldn't even watch. Sucks that the goalie (Tomas Vokoun) who got the Predators to the playoffs has some rare blood disease and has to be out for the rest of the season.

That's why I asked if the man was injured. He was like "Where am I?????????"

Yeah, the slow motion does not do it justice. You had the regular version at the end there though. At least I think.

I need to find Rick Jenearette's call on that play and post it here. It was insane

That was a great hit. He got knocked senseless. It was no punch to the head though, right Todd Bertuzzi? :judge:

Do I hear the call of a pampered Avalanche fan?

On the contrary, I found the whole Steve Moore incident to be very unnecessary, considering still how vindictive Moore still is. I just figured that Mr. Bertuzzi should be given a say in the check. haha

I'm no Avalanche fan.

and the Ducks tie up the series. Started off a great game and then went to shit in the second period... and really had Anaheim in making stupid mistakes landing them in the penalty box. But it was a great game... at least from my perspective.
Series tied 1-1... and moving to Anaheim for games three and four. ^_^

Might have to talk to the boss to see if I might be able to score a pair of his four tickets for one of the games...

So all four teams that played today tied up the series. Interesting.

What is this. Fucking ref makes a horrible call on some tripping giving Carolina the 5 on 3 and now they scored. BS.

Horrible call indeed. Now we're in second overtime, and the refs are being -very- inconsistent tonight.

Still... that's a GREAT game tonight between the Habs and the 'Canes.

HABS WIN BITCHES

Ryder came through in the end to give us the win. We're 2-0 in the series now and the next game is at home. I'm seriously considering scalping tickets. The atmosphere is going to be CRAZY. Montreal is THE hockey city.

So with that flu going around (wish I'd known that sooner, no way would I have picked them to win in that case) and without Jagr, New York is pretty much done I think.

Well, they say Jagr is still going to play in this series; but at the rate at which things are deteriorating for the Rangers now, he might not even get the chance.

Man, the Sabers game was great. 8-2 like it was nothing.

The funniest thing was that the entire second period was pretty much one perpetual power play for the Sabers.

north eastern division ftw

I heard some goalie went apeshit tonight. Is this true? Clips?

Avs managed to tie it up and send the game into OT. I can't believe it.

Esche for whatever reason decided to get involved with a fight during the Sabers-Flyers game. Which was hilarious because everything related to the fight ocurred in center ice. And the fight was pretty much broken up by the time he got there.

LOL. What a loser. I think that he was just looking for something to do besides let pucks in the net.

SABRES OWNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNEEEEEEEEEE D.

5-0 in first period. This was the fastest team EVER in this period. You should have seen those Flyers. It's like they weren't even there the way the Sabres were going.

Esche had 4 goals allowed on 8 shots at one point. Good Save percentage.

And yes there was like a 20 minute powerplay in the second period with the Stupid ass Flyers punching people for no reason and checking guys not even near the puck. No Class whatsoever.

Oh and Habs may be hockey city now, but not when the Devils or Sabres play them lol.

What. Habs will win the Cup. You'll see. Hater.

No they won't, but they have a way better fanbase in their city than both Philly and Buffalo combined, so I'm not really sure what he's talking about.

I'm satisfied so long as Philly is losing. Them getting raped is even better!

Brent I mean they will hate hockey when they got smoked by one of those teams.

Montreal people will hate hockey? You obviously don't understand what hockey means to this city.

Hockey fans might be the most loyal fans of any North American sport. Hell, even the Penguins were selling out the last few games of the season. People actually payed money to sit in crappy seats, in an old arena, with the second worst team in the league. (One of those people was me, holla)

Of those fans, Montreal fans are THE most loyal fans. Shit, we riot here when we win Stanley Cups. You can't top that.

I wasn't trying to top it. I was just giving an example, damn.

Hmm...oh, that was just a figure of speech. Wasn't directed at anybody.

Well, somehow the Stars manage to lose again. Deja vu 2004 Playoffs.

Man, I'm reading the news from last nights game, and I just can't stop lollin' about this.

The more I read, the more apparent it is that Philly got embarassed last night.

Also, there's some good pictures from the game. Maybe I'll get one of Esche getting in the fight.

Can someone get a sound clip of Hitchcock telling Lindy Ruff to "fuck off and to mind his own fucking business." That's gold, and I see it being better than "on a SHIT referee call."

Even with all my exams and studies...I made sure I didnt miss any hockey.. and FUCK YEH!! TAKE THAT UP YOURS CAROLINA!!....KOVALEV played like a god! (beside is stupid penality).

and lindy ruff...just went up in my esteem... I like that coach's attitude.hehe...

Hitchcock "tell lindy to fuck off"

SHUT UP FAT BOY!!!

I would be surprised if New York won their series. It's not looking good, and their goalie still stinks.

No predictions this year though, too many matchups in the air. Cheering for Montreal though, as they're the only team I can root for since every Western Conference team in the playoffs I despise at this point.

Apparently, the retards whom work at 'Arrowhead Pond' are too goddamn stupid to realize that Calgary is a Canadian-based team.

I mean, what the fuck, guys...

Oh, and I laughed my ass off when Tampa's fifth goal was reviewed, then disallowed. Classic. But I suppose it was somewhat fitting, seeing just how badly they were pwned/bitch-slapped by the Sens, and all.

*coughottawainfivecough*

Fuck you to CBC for making me watch the faggot Flames when I could be watching a real series in Detroit/Edmonton.

Habs FTW.

Please explain what prompted this statement.

Jagr is expected to miss Game 3 as well.

quoted for truth

I cannot believe they way that last scrum went. ANyone else watching? Anyone else see how Chara pummelled, stradled and then nearly KO'd Lecavelier? fight oty

and that last goal was SO kicked. Nice try though.

It's always a good laugh when someone gets it into their head that it's a good idea to fight Chara.

There was no singing of O Canada prior to puck-drop.


The whole affair was rather chippy, which is definitely a positive, IMO. Because, unless they're getting agressive (read: Dingman shows his presence), I absolutely cannot endure watching the Lightning -- regardless of who they're playing -- otherwise.

'Hockey Bay', my ass.

Well, at least they'll be [un]mercifully dethroned (if tonight was any indication, anyway), and we'll see a new Champ crowned this year. ^_^;;


So he declined to go for the knockout punch...

*Lightbulb*

Chara for the Lady Byng, y'all! XD


Something Mr. Ragdoll--erm, Bryan McCabe, knows all-too-well. =P

The Predators backup goalie is horrible. Stupid mistakes on his part cost them this game.

>_<

Anaheim totally self-destructed tonight... watching them skate was like watching a Disney On Ice show while watching a speed skating competition. Anaheim was slow... lucid... and not there. And if they don't snap out of this funk they don't deserve to advance. I like my Ducks... but after seeing them play these last two games makes me wonder it they even care about being in the playoffs.


In terms of the Arrowhead Pond not playing the Canadian national anthem... I know they've done it in the past whenever I attended the games, but FSN didn't go to the ice until the final line of the US national anthem so I cannot confirm or deny that it was sung or not.

Haha. Whats the problem with the bay area embracing the team? I've been a fan since 1996, and I can't recall seeing a this area more behind a team over the past 3 years since the Bucs in the late 1990's. Considering the fact that the St.Pete Times forum has been packed each game of the season, its a testament that this is definately a hockey market just as much as it is a NFL market.

Horrible game, most definately. I couldn't help but laugh at all the completely dumbass passes in our zone all night. Like they never learned that the Sens just put a player in front of our outlet players near the blueline. Fucking amazing. Grahame did a good job, but was beaten by the fact our defense decided to just be a bunch of idiots, such as the reason our team as been inconsistant all year. Oh well, all we can hope to do is regroup for game 4 on Thursday. Hopefully I get some tickets for it. To put it simply, this team is lacking in motivation and heart right now. I question whether or not the have the drive to be the team they were a season ago.

We sat and just gazed at the ice for a little while after the 2nd OT session concluded at the RBC Center on monday night. I really hope that won't be my last visit to that building this season. I expect a BIG effort from the Canes tonight.

How about those Oilers? Man I love watching them beat Detroit. Puts a smile on my face every time.

And what the hell was Vinnie Lecavalier thinking taking a swing at :chara:? Can they give you 2 minutes for stupidity?

The penalties for stupidity are usually a lot worse, say a few months with post-concussion syndrome. =o

:(

That is all. You all know what I'm referring to.

Even with Jagr, the Rangers played poorly.

So how about those Avs? Holy shit, they looked good-as-dead come the conclusion of the regular-season (and even flirted with missing the playoffs, entirely), and prime for the picking for whoever their Quarterfinal opponent was going to be. Now they've stepped-up their play, and actually look like [somewhat of] a contender. I've got them winning this series, but not in a sweep.

And, unfortuntely, that means the questions about Marty Turco persist. However, all the blame shouldn't just be laid upon his shoulders. But the goalie always does make the best scapegoat in these kind of situations, I suppose. Bah. He deserves better.


Mason or Vokoun, they were destined to lose this series (Chris is still a pretty solid netminder, but the Sharks just have way too much talent & firepower). Not unlike the Red Wings. =P


Everyone says that -- regardless of what happens -- they should just be proud to have qualified for the postseason, and consider it quite the accomplishment, as they weren't really expected to (obviously). But that doesn't excuse them from playing like a bunch of statues in Game-3.

Still, I have Calgary dumping them in six. Especially considering they've apparently finally found their game -- both offensively & defensively (just-in-time, fellas XD).


Well, this time they most certainly didn't. Which is a total disgrace; right up there with when the Habs fans used to boo during the USA one (they might still do that, but I haven't really noticed). No, actually, it's even worse.

But, then again, maybe it's not too much of a surprise, considering it took the person about five goddamn minutes just to get through the one Anthem; so I guess they figured there wouldn't be enough time for both...?

Nevertheless, it'll be interesting to see what exactly transpires tonight -- in-terms of both the Anthem(s) & the actual on-ice action.


I'm sure the fact that the vast-majority of the fanbase (read: 99.9% of it) are 'bandwagon-ers' doesn't exactly hurt, either. So, despite what you might choose to believe, Tampa isn't a genuine hockey-market. Sorry.

But there's also those lovable-loser D-Rays... oops. My bad. XD


New York had a fluke season, pure and simple.

Although, I wouldn't mind seeing them make a dramatic comeback to upset the Devils. But at this point that's about as unlikely a scenario as there ever was (Game-3 proved it).

I agree, a vast majority is at the moment. However, I'm sure a good amount will stick around when the team goes through the dark ages. The Bucs have sold out 8 straight years, and will make it 9 straight this year in very good likelyhood, so loyality does grow when a franchise goes through a period of consistant good play. During and after, fans that have grown loyal do typically stick to that team. Its not a genuine hockey market yet, yes. But, its on its way to being one. Fucking on that same point, it sucks that its become increasingly harder (for both football and hockey) to get tickets in this town. I used to be able to just walk to the ticket office on site, not anymore. Lame...

:lolsign: I'm a Drays fan. We seem to have everything in line except for a good pitching rotation. With a new owner and a new mantality approaching the franchise (and god-willing we'll get out of that division and move to the NL East), I have faith that in a few years, we could actually have a better team to field. Obviously, the franchise has been a shitstorm since it started. Of course thats not to say everything has gone wrong. We do have alot of good, young talent it town. I just hope it stays that way long enough to get proper pitchers in here.

FTW Anaheim!!!! In OT...
Anaheim played well in the first couple of periods and fell apart at the beginning of the third period, but managed to pll themselves together to make sure the 2-0 lead at the beginning of the third didn't end up becoming a loss.
Was really impressed with the younger players... and was nice to see Selanne finally score a goal in this series.
Anaheim needs to put more pressure on Iginla just like they put a lot of pressure on Selanne. He's the thorn in Anaheim's side... and unless he get injured in some way... he will continue to be the main reason they cannot totally kick some ass.

A couple of issues I did have was the lack of calls in the game though. I saw at least two high sticks against Anaheim that were never called... one of which did draw blood. It seemed to me that in this series that the refs were very anti-Anaheim. A lot of calls never being called... and only would call VERY flagrant calls against Calgary (as well as in the last handful of games of the regular season).

Yes, I'm going to call bullshit on the refs... there are calls that they are letting go. And it isn't just Anaheim... it's across the league. Either call everything or call nothing. Don't take sides... and don't call them willy-nilly.

Okay... rant off... now to move on to Game 5... the beginning of a Best of Three series now... ^_^
See you in Calagary on Saturday...

So, how about that pick-and-roll goal by the Wings and Lidstrom?

I haven't been paying much attention to the playoffs, though I have watched more games this year than in years past. The games I have seen have been intense, high-scoring, and just all-around exciting. This is what hockey is all about. I'll get more focused once things get to the conference finals.

I'm am so impressed with Havlat's play. He's so fluid in everything he does...and as much as I hate to admit it, Spezza's goal was very nice, even though it'll promote more dangles from him.

I cannot look at Fisher with that eye, I feel so sorry for him. I must admit though, the really bright blue eye surrounded by the blood from the impact is really creepy.

:( :( :( :( :( :( :( :( :( :( :( :( :( :(

Oil/Wings game in about an hour and a half. Already have the jersey on.

The Oilers have managed to greatly impress me this series. They went from only making the playoffs because Vancouver are fuckups to outplaying the best team in the league for the first three games (I don't care what anyone says, Edmonton had it in game 1. They just got sloppy.)

They can win this series, it's not going to be easy, but they can do. If they can win this afternoon, they've got it. They'll come home and win it in six (as I've been saying since the first game). If they lose, they'll still win at home, but I don't think they can win at Joe Louis at game seven.

Also, is Stevie still hurt? Let's hope so.

Brent I'm sorry, but best hockey hair ever still goes to the reinging champ, Ryan Smyth.

http://www.metronews.ca/uploadedImag...th_article.jpg

I'/m really hoping the Oilers win, I'm DYING to see an upset in the first round. I had my sights set on the the Avalanche/Stars series but then Dallas went and screwed that up for me.

I dunno, I still think Alfredsson's hair is far superior to Ryan Smyth and I'm not just saying that because he's on the Sens, Alfie just had the whole clown hair cut thing going for him all through our playoff bid last season.

Just like that the Rangers are swept 4-0. I knew the Devils would take it in 4. Of course Brent didnt believe me in chat.

And the oil won!

GO FLAMES GO

Let's see here...

http://www.geocities.com/thegreathamhawk/rngr-suck1.gif

What a god damned debacle. I fell asleep, and when I woke up we went from the 3 seed to the Golf Channel. At least I can still watch my "hometown" Devils get obliterated by Ottawa later on in the postseason. Fuck you very much!

Congrats Sens. Good luck throughout the remainder of the playoffs.

I'm SO proud of Emery, he's really stepped up to the challenge dispite nearly everyone doubting how he could handle the pressure. Thank GOD Havlat came back, he's been amazing.

Also, congrats to the Devils for sweeping the Rangers.

I didn't know like half their team had the flu.

Predators are out in 5. It's too bad Vokoun ended up with that rare blood condition that put him out. They were too busy trying to pin down Thorton that they completely forgot about Patrick Marleau who scored a postseason best seven goals. No excuse.

Oilers are taking it tonight.

Oilers took it tonight.

WOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO~! !! <3

That was awesome! Now the Flames need to win to make this almost the best night ever!

:milk::milk::milk:

Awesome. Simply awesome.

If Calgary wins tonight, it'll be the first playoff Battle of Alberta since 1991. We're coming for you, you stupid cowboys.

Fuck I am so pissed tonight.
The 3rd goal was KICKED in and shouldnt have been a goal.
However, the best fucking team in the league couldnt defend goals and left the net open too much when the playoffs started. I have to blame them the most. Fuck.

thank you for noting that it was a third goal. That first goal that was waved off was a bullshit call... and should have stood as a goal.

Oh... you mean the Detroit game... my bad ^_~


BTW: Calgary fans better not start celebrating yet... we're going to Game 7...

Holy shit I left for work and detroit was up 2-0 at the end of the 2nd. Shows how much i know about the Western Conference and these teams.

Sabres closin it out tomorrow.

omfg Edmonton with the sweep of the president's trophy winners! I gotta be honest, I thought The oilers were going down big time but WOW did detroit take a big fall. Way to go Oilers, you've sure as hell earned it.


Just as a note, I cannot believe the Sens lost to Dora the fucking Explorer. We're getting kicked out of our own arena so some miniature Spaniard can frollic with her rag-tag team of colourful, talking animals on our ice surface while hundreds of parents close their eyes and tell themselves" there no place like ANYWHERE ELSE." Explore this.

Man good night for some hockey...Just fucking glad the Redwings are gone.


Just have to say the sabres are taking down the flyers tommarow. Enough of them hanging around.

Question: In the history of the playoffs, has there ever been a

2nd round with #5-8 advancing while #1-4 eliminated? If the

Ducks win game 7, that's what will happen. I'm in shock.

Damn, I was hoping Montreal and Philly would win :(

Whoa calm down there killer. The whole idea of a multi-purpose arena is exactly in it's name, to be "multi-purpose." The Dora show isnt "kicking you out" its just whoever owns the Corel Centre scheduled it that way. So blame them.

so everyone is waiting on tomorrow's game, huh? (okay, today by the time I actually hit "Post Reply")
I am looking forward to the final meeting of Calgary and Anaheim... it should prove to be a very interesting game IF Giguere is not the goalie for Anaheim. He does not deserve to be the netminder for Anaheim. He gave up more goals in one game than Bryzgalov did in the two games he was in goal. Giguere should have not played for most, if not all of, this series. He's 100%. And it showed.

Anyway, looking forward to the game at 7pm... hope Anaheim wins, but the stats are against them right about now. *sigh*

I seriously doubt many are waiting and I don't know how you come to that conclusion even though it will be a good game since it is Game 7.

I haven't even watched any Western Conference games yet lol. I pretty much watched a decent portion of the Eastern.

I don't feel like watching hockey anymore. Stupid deflection.

I can't believe I stayed up until 1AM to watch that shit. What a boring game. So much for an Albertan showdown ;_;

Wow. Looks like Teemu Selanne finally realized is was Game 7 in the playoffs. Great offensive and defensive game by the Ducks. Calgary played very flat in my opinion.

Yeah, I was really looking forward to that in the second round. Oh well, I still can root for the Devils in the East and the Oilers in the West. I've been glued to the TV this postseason for every game. Its been great so far, and I'm looking forward to the remainder.

Yeah, so much for that Albetan showdown. It would've been cool. I like how the lowers seeds got in on the West, but the upper seeds stayed in th East. Huge props to the Oilers. Sports playoffs own me.

I'm kinda surprised that the top 4 in the east and the bottom 4 in the west move foreward. This should make for an interesting final.

Sabres-Sharks. You heard it here first.

Buffalo's goin' down like the bitches who cheer for them.

So, who do you all figure will take home some awards?

3:26 PM EDT, 05/04/2006
NHL Awards Finalists

HART TROPHY (MVP) - Jaromir Jagr, New York Rangers; Miikka Kiprusoff, Calgary Flames; Joe Thornton, San Jose Sharks.

VEZINA TROPHY (Goaltender) - Martin Brodeur, New Jersey Devils; Miikka Kiprusoff, Calgary Flames; Henrik Lundqvist, New York Rangers.

CALDER TROPHY (Rookie) - Sidney Crosby, Pittsburgh Penguins; Alexander Ovechkin, Washington Capitals; Dion Phaneuf, Calgary Flames.

JAMES NORRIS TROPHY (Defenseman) - Nicklas Lidstrom, Detroit Red Wings; Scott Niedermayer, Anaheim Mighty Ducks; Sergei Zubov, Dallas Stars.

FRANK J. SELKE TROPHY (Defensive forward) - Rod Brind'Amour, Carolina Hurricanes; Mike Fisher, Ottawa Senators; Jere Lehtinen, Dallas Stars.

JACK ADAMS AWARD (Coach) - Peter Laviolette, Carolina Hurricanes; Tom Renney, New York Rangers; Lindy Ruff, Buffalo Sabres.

LADY BYNG TROPHY (Sportsmanship) - Pavel Datsyuk, Detroit Red Wings; Patrick Marleau, San Jose Sharks; Brad Richards, Tampa Bay Lightning.

LESTER B. PEARSON AWARD (MOP, as voted by NHLPA) - Jaromir Jagr, New York Rangers; Alexander Ovechkin, Washington Capitals; Joe Thornton, San Jose Sharks.

I figure Thornton is pretty much assured to get the Hart. The Sharks had lost ten straight or something before he arrived in San Jose, and turned Cheechoo, who's only a couple seasons removed from being a rookie - and by all appearances seemed to be a solid 30 goal guy, at best - into a GOAL MACHINE who won the Rocket Richard trophy. I don't care what kind of luck he had, no way would he have many more than half of his 56 goals (which, incidentally, is the number had had last season) without Thornton feeding him those magic passes.

I have mixed feelings on the Vezina. I think Kiprusoff probably should get it, because he is the only reason the Flames have gone anywhere the last couple of seasons. When your top scorer has 35 goals, and leads the team by at least TEN goals over the next highest scorer, you're not shooting your way to the top. It's your goaltending that's dragging you there.

However, I hate the stupid Flames, so screw them, and I hope Lundqvist wins it just 'cause it's cool to see rookies get hardware. Brodeur would deserve it too, despite his garbage beginning of the season, 'cause god damn has he ever turned it on lately. However, Devils games make me fall asleep, so forget them too. GO SWEDE GO!

Calder will be Ovechkin most likely. Not only did he finish in like what, the top three in scoring or something, as a ROOKIE, but he did it on a team who really didn't have a lot of talent for him to work with. He didn't have a Thornton or Spezza floating him passes all game like Cheechoo and Heatley did, either.

Norris I figure will go to Lidstrom, like it almost always does. This dude is just TIMELESS. You think he's getting up there in years, but then he has another career season. It's incredible. He doesn't even really have to hit people because his stick checking is so good. There's nobody in the league I'd trust more to defend against any sort of odd-man rush.

Brind'Amour should get the Selke. I think I read that he played more minutes per game than any other player in the entire league. That's basically unheard of for a forward. His experience and leadership have him almost playing a Steve Yzerman kind of role, where he sort of changed from playing a scoring role (though he never was a prolific scorer like Stevie Y was back in the day) to a more defensive team-minded role. It's cool to see guys make personal sacrifices like that for the good of the team. Also I don't want to see Lehtinen get it AGAIN.

The Jack Adams will probably be the closest race, because these three guys took three garbage teams and turned them into winners. Hell, the Rangers made the playoffs for the first time in an ENTIRE DECADE. I'm not really as knowledgeable when it comes to coaches so I don't really have a preference. They all deserve it for the jobs they've done.

The Lady Byng is a pussy trophy, and I don't care who wins it.

Last, but not least, the Pearson. These three guys are all incredible players to watch. Jagr has his name on it a few times, so I think I'd like to see Thornton or Ovechkin win it. Ovechkin is younger and has a big career ahead of him still, so I think Thornton winning it this year would be coolest, though I could see any of the three winning it, really.

Thoughts?

Jagr, Lindy Ruff probably, and how the hell is Ryan Miller not nominated for ROTY. What is this?

Because among Ovechkin, Crosby, and Phaneuf he dosent stand a chance.

If any goalie would be in the running for the Calder, I think it'd probably be Lundqvist.

Well Anaheim took Game 1 in a 5-0 shutout over Colorado... and the bad blood between these teams has shown itself as Colorado began having a meltdown during the third period.

The one issue I have... and I think other Anaheim fans are having is the apparent intentional elbow by Hinote on Getzlaf. Some seem to be calling it "intent to injure"... others are calling it a cross-check. Me? I'm going to let the officials within the NHL decide on that one... but my opinion is intent to injure... especially when the horn was blowing...


And congrats to Buffalo for the win over Ottawa... I could have sworn I saw Ottawa on top by a couple of goals in the second before I took off to pick up dinner...

Get used to it; it's a typical play by the guys on the Avs who don't have any skill. It makes me sad that rad guys like Sakic get lumped in with that garbage.

Nah, they tied it up in the last minute of the 3rd period and scored in the first 18 seconds of overtime. Quite spectacular.

[23:52] <MervBurger> hahahaha, here's the play-by-play for OT
[23:52] <MervBurger> 0:00 Ottawa Mike Fisher won faceoff against Chris Drury
[23:52] <MervBurger> 0:15 Ottawa Giveaway by Anton Volchenkov
[23:52] <MervBurger> 0:18 Buffalo Goal scored by Chris Drury assisted by Mike Grier

lol sens

Now, now, don't bring yourself down to the level of Flyers fans. The Sens have a lot more class than that.

the Buffalo/Ottawa game was so sloppily entertaining. With the 3 goals in the last few minutes, it was great. Im just praying the devils smoke the 'canes today :|

What are the devils like 16-0 in the last 16 games or something.

ps sabres

15 - 0. 11 at the end of the regular season and then they swept the rangers ( :superhappy: :tpg: :lolsign: :dopey_love: ).

Well the ottawa game wasn't terrible, our offensive squad played very well, it's the defence who I'm worried about along with Emery. Andej Mezaros pinched too often and gave up 2 goals because of it and at least 2 of the other goals were in on first shot and Emery really shoulda had them.

I can't imagine how terrible Anton Volchenkov must feel right now. As well he should, that was a mighty big fuck up.

Devils got their asses handed to them today... what in the hell happened there? I popped the game in during the second intermission to see a score of 4-0... and then popped in near the end of the third to see a 6-0 score.
Did NJ throw out their farm team out on the ice?


Am looking forward to seeing the San Jose vs. Edmonton game in a few hours though...

Brodeur gave up three soft goals, ones which doinked off his stick (twice) and off his foot (once).

NBC has a really nice presentation. OLN just looks dirty in comparison to NBC's sharp, clean presentation. SJ/EDM should be a tight game though.

Yeah, i turned the damn game off after they scored the 4th goal. Wasnt too upset at 2-0, but then 3-0 then 4-0 ... i got hyper-pissed. Fuckin' hell -- happy birthday to me and marty :\

Lou Amoreillo had better kick their asses between game 1 and 2

What channel is the SJ/EDM game on, btw? Center Ice package doesnt even list it

Man the Canes clearly have no chance am I right guys?

Cam Ward takin over~

OLN was listing the game at 5pm PT


EDIT: Damn it... I just looked again, the game isn't until tomorrow evening... soon after the Ducks game... O_o

Ronz = my new mortal enemy (;p)

And ty Niekon. *cheers for Edmonton*

Anaheim takes another shutout win over Colorado... ^_^

Bring it Colorado... we're ready to take you down...
How does it feel to be shutout not one but twice by rookie goalie Bryzgalov? ^_~

Yeah, that score reminds me of how another previous game 7 turned out, hey Niekon, nudge nudge.

I have to finish two assignments in 1 hour and 45 minutes to watch this game, and I'm sick. Damn you Oilers and my self inflicted obligation watch your games.

I'm going for Edmonton in this series as well only because the wife, being a native San Fransican, hates San Jose... I like the way they play, but they are the closest thing to a cross-town rival we really have. LA Kings aren't so much a rivalry as a cross-town scrimmage ^_~

Anaheim played a great game. I think Colorado came into this series looking to rollover Anaheim. They look quite stunned now.

In case you haven't noticed my or Ronz's sigs, we're both sporting the colors of our teams. Check out my journal for more of my creations, and keep an eye out for matching avatars as well as alternate, white and classic ones in the future.

what's it gonna take to beat this miller guy? He was fantastic tonight, shame we lost though.

so Bryzgalov has proved he is human... and not some sort of cybornetic goalie.

Colorado definitely stepped up their game last night and for most it it seemed that Anaheim was playing on their heels. Sadly I missed the two back-to-back goals by Anaheim as I was dealing with drama from within the complex... >_<
But then Colorado tied the game up and sent everything into OT... then my heart started pounding... thankfully nothing like the last time that landed me in the ER. I knew Anaheim wasn't playing 100% and it was only a matter of time before Colorado got the puck into the back of the net again.

But that never came... it ended with Anaheim putting it into the back of Colorado's net. Hat Trick +1 for Lupal (sounds like something that you craft in FFXI)...

Anaheim takes a 3-0 lead over Colorado in the series. Next game is on Tursday evening...

Fire on Ice are you still alive e-buddy?

Ottawa people - what is happening to your team?

Two words: "MILLER TIME"

barely. I can't believe how poorly we're doing and good god why can't we seem to fix our strategy. The Sabres have clearly figured us out.

oh, and miller?

what. the. fuck.

with San Jose and Edmonton going into their 2nd overtime... I have to ask this question...
When was the last time that there were all four teams leading the conference semifinals up 3-0 and looking to sweep? Has this ever happened?

Edmonton is the one factor that would ruin this oddity at this point in time...
Anaheim over Colorado 3-0
Buffalo over Ottawa 3-0
Carolina over New Jersey 3-0

I have never seen this... or don't recall this happening before...
if SJ wins... they'll lead their series 3-0... just waiting to see how Game 3 turns out...

Penalties plz kthx.

This game would probably be over by now if the refs hadn't swallowed their whistles.

I mean, I love xtuple overtimes, but the idea was calling penalties when they happen, no matter when.

(Get what you ask for...Edmonton penalty...)

True. Assuming the Oilers finish killing this off, I'm sure that the refs will give them a PP during the 3rd OT. They'll even it out. Its the same in most sport overtimes in the postseason -- put the whistles away and let the players play UNLESS there is a significant penalty that has to be called no matter the situation. That said, the refs have let alot go thus far, and I'm sure that'll continue through the 3rd OT.

Well, if they do, you'll be seeing less of these particular refs, if Bettman's pledge comes true.

Besides, this game is going to end in the 3OT anyway...why not put some power plays in the mix and get things moving that way?

I agree with you completely. I'd rather be done with this so I can go to bed. I just want to see how this ends. I'm pulling for the underdog personally, so I hope the Oilers pull it out. At any rate, we should start seeing the penalties being called more and more.

Horcoff ends it!

Now that is more like it. Sens win it in regulation 2 - 1, all we gotta do is make it happen 3 more times...only better :/

Mighty Ducks sweep the Avalanche out of the playoffs.

(Teemu's not so pretty without a few of his teeth. That's hockey for you...)

I hate to be the pessamist... but when was the last time a team came back from being down 3-0 in a series to win four straight? Ottawa is a great team... and I wish the best for them, but sadly the odds are against them. Can they beat those odds?


And in other news... WOOHOO!!!! My team is the first to advance to the conference finals!!! The Mighty Ducks (the Ducks after this season) of Anaheim are now getting the rest that they deserve while some of us await the outcome of the San Jose/Edmonton series. ^_^

Toronto did it sometime back in the 50s or something, and the Islanders did it to the Pens in the 70s. It's only happened once in baseball...:)

about 35 years ago by the Islanders and 33 years before that by the Maple Leafs. It's only been done twice and I don't know if we can do it either, but we're sure as hell gonna give it our all (I'm looking at you Volchenkov :poke: )

I think that the Sens will more than likely win game five, but falter and lose in game 6. Ottawa should take a second victory on home ice on Saturday, but I don't see how they'll go back into Buffalo and take home a win on the Sabres home ice IMO. But, as always, I'm sure their being told the same cliche (which really is the only mantra to take in this situation) of just taking it one game at a time. "Just win one guys." Win one, then move on from there. Should be interesting to see.

Looks like Edmonton ties up the series 2-2 with the Sharks.

That was an awesome game. Down 3-1 and they come back to win it 6-3 :rock:

Devils up 5-0 midway through the 2nd. pwnt.

[22:00] <NYRSkate> Buffalo advances?
[22:00] <Wojo> yup
[22:00] <Wojo> i can hear Fire on Ice from here

lol for truth

Sens need to stop with all the pose.

Wow, that's a really suprising series!

that game was exactly how the series went, we play OK, but not specatcularily on forward, our defence was shaky and unpredictable and we let them WALK IN and score two easy goals the our farm team would never allow. We didn't deserve to win. Go Oilers.

You should also give credit to the Sabres for owning your guys asses.

Canes finish off the Devils 4-1. It'll be Canes-Sabres and Ducks-EDM/SJ.

Kind of an unexciting final forecast, but if anything the chance that a team that has never won a Stanley Cup will win one this year is currently 75%, and those teams are in markets that have been hurting or are non-traditional. Which Gary Bettman will be happy about.

BTW, wonder if he'll be booed at the Cup presentation ceremony.

Well it's exciting to some of us.

Can't wait to see SABRESSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSS vs Canes, although Cory Stillman took a bad spill in our game tonight and may be hurt. That will hurt us, but at least there's some time before the series starts.

Also go Oilers~

You make me embarassed to be a Senators fan, you fairweather faggot.

I think I may end up rooting for the Sharks, simply because I want to see the Bruin regret giving away Joe Thornton (though he's shown again that he's a playoff dud).

But I think it'll be Carolina winning the Cup.

I have a Sabres bias, I'll admit. (I'm a Buffalonian.)

What I'd like to point out is that more than traditional offense tactics or goaltending, the factor that's driving a lot of teams through the playoffs is heart.

This isn't anything new or profound, but as Dopefish pointed out, three of the remaining teams have never won a Stanley Cup. If I'm not mistaken, San Jose also has yet to experience total victory. To these teams, the playoffs just business as usual. The Sens, the Avalanche, the Rangers - they've all held the Cup before; losing now does nothing to truly tarnish their past. For Buffalo/Carolina/Anaheim, losing only embellishes past failures.

I can't speak of other teams but I know what's driving Buffalo. Three years ago, the owners of the Sabres were indicted for embezzling millions of dollars from their primary company, Adelphia Cable. When they were found guilty, the ownership of the Sabres was in the air and morale sunk like a stone.

Three years later, we've been rescued from the depths by joint efforts between the NHL itself and a local millionaire. We have a strong roster and we're fast on the ice for a change. We're also still stinging from the horrible, horrible "No Goal" call in Dallas back in 1999. (Even ESPN has recognized it amongst sporting's Top 5 worst calls ever.)

Basically, we deserve the Cup as much as any other team does and Buffalo may not be good for much, but dammit, we're a sporting town. All the anti-Sabres sentiment I hear around here hurts. After all the shit Buffalo sports teams have gone through, we deserve our moment.

It's sad how nobody outside of Buffalo is willing to take us seriously.

When the Sabres winning the Cup is satirized as being part of the apocalypse in Bruce Almighty, it's hard to think of while keeping a straight face. :p

Yeah, we're disappointed that we lost but just because we're dissapointed doesn't mean we're gonna verbally tear them apart. Yeah, they made a lot of mistakes but what good will whining and complaining do? Ask anyone who's been around this thread from before the crash, I'm as big a Sens fan as anyone else, maybe more so. I'm feeling terribly let down, but I'm still able to see that we did something right and that we're on the right track. I stay hopeful for next season and hope to GOD we don't trade Chara and Redden, both of whom have expired contracts as of our last game.

The Sens have never won the cup. An ottawa franchise did ages ago but it definately wasn't the Sens.

But you see, that's a comedy film.

The real apocalypse would be the Bills winning the Super Bowl.

Wide right! :)

I've been a Sens fan for more than a decade, son. Apparently you don't remember the dark times they went through after they re-entered the league, because they certainly don't always do well in the regular season. I remember a season they only won one single road game. ONE. They had like 70 losses or something ridiculous like that.

If you can't see the hilarious self-contradiction in your previous post:

then frankly I just don't know what to say.

"YES GO SENS GOING INTO OT WOO! GO SENS! GOING ALL THE WAY! BEST TEAM EVER!"

<five minutes pass>

"FUCK SENS ARE GARBAGE GOD DAMN IT FUCK THIS GAME."

I'm not really sure where you get an inability I have for acknowledging that they sucked in the playoffs from. I've said several times over the course of this season's playoffs that the Senators play over the last month or so has been the worst I've seen all season. So really, you're just making shit up because you're mad I called you a fairweather fan. I suppose nobody likes that label, especially when it has a certain ring of truth to it.

That Ottawa franchise was, in fact, called the Senators.

ok, fine. But it wasn't these sens. Technically they've only existed since 1992-93 season. The last time the cup was in ottawa was 1926.

The Sens have become the Eagles of the NHL as of late. Always a great regular season, but the playoffs seem to leave something to be desired each year. Too bad, because if they had a more experienced goaltender (though Emery came along very well) they would have done a whole lot better, not to mention a defense that doesn't let a skater walk in and score on their most important game of the year, facing elimination. My brother and I sat there and watched that play a few times, just king of baffled that 3 guys stood back and let the Buffalo player (I forgot whole scored on the play) skate in and score.

Good luck next season to the Sens, hopefully the Lightning will actually get a regular season win against them.

TWICE >8U

Only thing sadder than a Nintendo fanboy, is an Ottawa fanboy. *sigh*

I'm really speculative on whether or not Anaheim getting an extra few days before the next series is really what they need. Of course they get time to heal their wounds and such, but they won't be in a "game situation" for a few more days. The result from Game 1 of their next series will definitely be interesting to watch.

That kind of a break is typically bad news for a team 'cause they really lose the groove they were in. The most recent example, of course, is Ottawa's meltdown last week.

Oilers shut out the sharks to take the series 4-2. They'll take on the Ducks in Game 1 on Friday. Carolina will face Buffalo in the other series. Any takers?

Sabres/Oilers. REAL USA hockey team town vs Canada.

Of course USA comes out on top.

I'm taking the same as Score -- Sabres vs. Oilers (although, thats more wishful thinking then what I think will happen). Either way, I'll be rooting for the Western Champ in the finals. Always root for the underdog.

I like the Ducks coming out of the Westicles. The Oilers may have the only playoff tested goalie of any of the remaining starters (whereas the man on the Ducks bench won the Conn Smythe in a losing Stanley Cup Final, for fuck's sake), but they're also loaded with a bunch of guys who haven't been this deep in the playoffs before. The Ducks, however, have been here recently and have a couple guys with their names already on the Cup (Scott Niedermayer, for one). In fact, Scott Niedermayer was on the Devils team that beat J.S. Giguere and the Ducks a few years ago. Irony!

Same story in the East, though the Canes haven't been to the Cup final in a little bit longer and their roster looks a bit different from the one Ron Francis helped into the finals. The same, of course, could be said for the Sabres, who were of course one goal away from winning the Cup with Hasek in 1999. Still, I figure on the Canes to get past the Sabres.

What on earth do they put in the water in Edmonton?! I am so impressed with that team. If I found out today that they were the 8th place in the west, I would not believe it at all. I say Canes/Oilers for a final.

Another thing not in favor of the Oilers is history. As long as the current format has been around, this is the first time the 8th seed has made the conference final. What does that suggest about the chances of an 8 seed making the Cup Final?

Good luck to them, anyway...

The Oil have always been gritty like this, man. They surprise people. I've always been an Oil fan, except when they play the Bruins.

The Poohs, you mean. Wusses. :(

Anaheim loses game 1, 3-1. Rest can be a double-edged sword.

yeah... Anaheim looked like shit out there on the ice for most of the game. On rare occasions they seemed to be in synch with each other only to blow it within one shift.

I cannot see any of these teams winning the cup.

I would have an easier time seeing into the future to find that the NHL had decided to lockout the players once again, during the playoffs.

You are a fucking moron.

Hey, who's going to win the Super Bowl?

Well, even though they're down to these two remaining teams, and no other footballs teams are present, let alone playing or doing just about anything related to football, I still doubt that either team in the Super Bowl is going to win. It just isn't gonna happen.

Conversely:

We're down to game Seven of the World Series, with the Red Sox taking on the Astros. Who do you think will emerge victorious?

I think that will be decided in Game Eight.


Do you even have any clue what you're talking about, Sonne?

It's hard to take that seriously coming from a Panthers fan.

Despite Anaheim out-playing the shit out of us, Roloson is a fucking wall and the Oilers take a commanding lead.

We're sweeping this. Series over on thursday.

You really have to hand it to Roloson for stepping up under also constant pressure from Anaheim. The Ducks outshot the Oilers 34-25.

I wouldn't count the Ducks out just yet. I figured it might take one or two games to get them back in gear from the extra rest they got.

Don't know... Anaheim might have outshot Edmonton... but from what I could tell they weren't in synch yet again. Bad passes... missed passes... lack of energy at various moments in the game when there was a fresh line on the ice. Anaheim is looking sloppy to me... I'm disappointed to watch Anaheim lose not once but twice at home...
Then again, the "fans" in the arena aren't all that exciting either. Not like hearing the fans up in Edmonton yelling and screaming... >_<

I don't know, like acid said, Anaheim outplayed Edmonton this game. I was getting antsy towards the end with all the pressure they kept putting. Still, I think Edmonton will take it in four :tpg:

What I meant to say was that it's hard to see them winning a cup, just because it wasn't expected that any of those teams would be in this position. It was a small, meaningless comment.

Nabhan saw a problem with it, and made a witty jab at me, a good one at that.

On the other hand, here comes Crash, showing his dominance over all gff members by going off, showing how incredibly stupid my comment, and thus I, am. In doing this, he shows how incredibly smart he is, in case anyone doubted it. I may of underestimated him, because I've only been on GFF since 2002, and may of missed him. My bad. I'm also sure he could totally own me in Magic.

Whatever. I'm not trying to start shit, no one wants to see this thread moved to the sewers.

that's what they were saying about the Sens...

I know, but I'm trying to overlook that slightly (When your a true fan, you believe in your team anyway). Although, if they lose game 3 it will be difficult for me to watch from then on.

Oh I believe... really I do... I keep cheering them on even in the face of defeat. Only after the game do I grumble for a bit. Kind of helps to live a few miles from the arena though too... despite the fact that this town seems to care more about their shitty baseball team than a hockey team ^_^
Still... trying to figure out how to swipe some of the banners they have hanging from the streetlights around the stadium... would go perfectly with my "2006 Fowl Towel"

And do or die in about five hours... going to have to get the hell out of here on time today and rush home to get prepared ^_^

Carlyle said that he "thought the fans in Calgary were louder". You know, before he even attended a game in Edmonton.

He doesn't fucking know what loud is, but he's about to find out.

The two Albertans in my lab have been going crazy over the Oilers. I'm pretty sure that they would have died of joy had the Flames and Oilers clashed.

Double Post:
Nothing can top the volume of the Montreal fans during a huge game. It is deafening.

Actually, I've been in hockey arenas in Boston, Montreal (the old forum), Toronto, Calgary, Edmonton, Winnipeg, Quebec City, Detroit, New York and Los Angeles. I can definitely say the most deafening crowds, for my money, were the cities in Alberta. Just... fucking crazy.

In the Sharks series, Edmonton actually set noise records for the NHL. We are officially the loudest arena in the league.

Jesus that was a nerve racking 3rd period. 4-0 to 5-4. I'll admit, I was a little worried for awhile there. But Pisani, that marvelous bastard, comes through again.

I'm telling you, series over in four. Oilers win cup against Buffalo in six.

congrats to Edmonton... they played well. Anaheim just didn't have enough to take it all the way. The team with the greatest desire... and it wasn't Anaheim this year.
But hopefully folks will stop looking at Anaheim as some sort of laughable team... and hopefully the Disney movie tie-in reference to their name will get commentators to take them seriously when the name change takes place for next season.

Series ain't over yet, holmes.

I have yet to see a team win four straight games when down 0-3 in a series... it might not be over yet, but I can pretty much guarantee Anaheim knows their season is over... though coming back from a 4-0 deficit in the 3rd to almost force an OT is rather intriguing

You said it. It was like they were both playing with open nets there. It's a shame that Anaheim has to win four straight now.

If Edmonton wins the next game. I wonder how getting some rest will effect their performance in the Finals. I know rest has hurt Anaheim to some extent, it took away their momentum in my opinion, and I think it will have a similar effect on Edmonton if they win.

Fuck.

Like really, that's all I can say. Fuck.

No worries, they can win it in game 5. Anaheim might hold on for a game six, but they'd be damned lucky if they did.

kudos to giguere for keeping the ducks alive for at least one more game.

LOL getting jiggy wit it am i rite?

So, who's the netminder of the Ducks' future: Giguere or Bryzgalov?

It'll be Goldberg.

http://www.cinemasavvy.com/m/images/mightyducks.jpg

Content! I'm kind of suprised the Sabressssss are giving the Canes a good series. I thouroughly expected the Canes to dominate them.

Julie "The Cat" FTW. She's from Maine.

Yeah. She was a lot better in D3 than Goldberg

I see the Ducks managed to stay alive to see one more game. That's good, make it intereesting at least. :)

Plus, Goldberg was a Flyers fan. That's a subtext of failure waiting to explode.

Quoted for the absolute truth.

congrats to Edmonton... you played well and fought well...

Sixteen years. We haven't been here in sixteen years. I was four. The first eighth seeded team to not only make it to the conference final, but win it. Ever.

I simply cannot express how joyous the city is right now. Whyte Ave (the designated party street) was an absolute madhouse. The roads are closed off, and it's an 8 block, block party. Singing, dancing, high fives, girls flashing, general antics, chants of "we want the cup!", and just general good times had by all.

Atleast the Oil will finally have a rest. They've played 17 games in like what, a month or so?

The cup is coming home.

Good luck to the Oilers, I'll be rooting for them.

Of course you know, if Edmonton doesn't win the Cup, it will BURN.

Edmonton or bust. I'm just amazed that a team who barely made it into the playoffs has made it so far. They're incredible and totaly deserve to be where they are. Oilers ftw.

Game 7 Thursday. Who wins the series?

Still going with the Canes.

Buffalo wins tommorow, Edmonton beats Buffalo in six games.

1: Buf
2: Edm
3: Edm
4: Edm
5: Buf
6: Edm

I am going with the Canes too. The sabres just seem to be making to many mistakes.

The biggest mistake Carolina will make will be showing up.

I hope Buffalo wins their series - only because I know the goalie coach. Edmonton is taking it in the finals though. Nothing will stop them.

Except for Hurricane Ward.

Funny, considering the only way Buffalo will win is if Carolina in fact doesn't show up.

Game 7, would you say that the Canes are the underdogs? It's definitely been a great series.

Considering how much time Edmonton is getting to rest, (which I beleve is what ruined the Ducks' run) I wonder how they'll fare...

Its confirmed. Hurricanes vs Oilers for the Stanley Cup.

I think this will be a pretty exciting championship series. I am really looking forward to it.

Oilers in 5 or Canes in 7.

I say Oilers in six personally. Looks to be a long, good series.

I love how A small market team will raise the cup either way.

Oilers in 7.

My prediction: If Edmonton gets off to a quick start and wins games one and two, it will be the Oil in 5. If they split the first games, it'll be the Oil in 6.

I'd agree with Oilers in six. It's still the finals, I expect at least 6 games of amazing hockey in the fight for the cup.

Game one later today. Who takes the first game of the series?

I say Oilers 3 Canes 2

I like the Oilers in this series too. Plus the team and the fans are more deserving. The Carolina fans don't deserve a championship IMO. They aren't crazy for their team like Edmonton, plus they are pretty fairweather.

This is going to be a damn good series, my prediction is the Oilers in six.

Jesus, Cam Ward is a witch. Those two saves on virtual empty netters were just sick.

Roloson is out with a knee injury. MacTavish has stated that he won't play another game in the series.

We're done.

As much as it hurts me to admit it, we're finished. Conklin is terrible. Did you see the game-winner he let in? And while Markennen may be good, he is still after all a backup goalie.

Backup goalies do not win Stanley Cup series.

I'd love to say I had faith in Conklin, but acid is right, I just don't think he's up to the task of a Stanley Cup Final. It's such a shame, I really thought the cup would come back to Canada this year.

What kind of fan are you? "We're done".... cmon man. Your team got that far and you are going to give up on them? Conklin will prove he's up to the challenge.

Well I haven't seen too much of his play but what I have seen is sub-par at best. To be fair, when Hasek got hurt, nobody though the sens would even last 4 games in the first round but this is the finals and I think the two situations aren't terribly comparable.

As great as Roloson has been, he's the one who blew the 3-0 lead, not Conklin. The last goal wasn't Conklin's fault either. He did a clean hand-off and he wasn't the one who fumbled the puck.

There is also a chance saying Roloson is out is just a smoke-screen. I didn't see his knee get bent awkwardly or anything.

Do not. Ever. Question my Oilers fandom.

There is a difference between having faith in your team, and having to accept the harsh reality. Conklin will not win us a cup. Period. Markannen has a chance, a small chance, but in the end he is still a backup goalie. While I hope and pray that he can hold it together, he's still not Roli. I won't give up, I'll still watch every goddamn game in full Oilers gear, but what was a sure thing in my mind has become an outside chance.

I bet you're still crying about the Sabres beating the Flyers.

I'll question your fandom as much as I please. Your words in themselves are giving up. You talk about harsh reality like they've already lost. Please. Maybe during the regular season you say stuff like that, but not when your team is in the frickin Cup Finals. You've got to believe in your own damn team when you get this far. It's inexcusable not to.

Double Post:
Still? When did I ever cry about the series? I don't think I've even mentioned it in this topic. The Flyers were injury-plagued and lost. I've moved on. Next year will be different.

How so?

Oh, they'll lose to a different team.

No, you will not question my fandom. I was bleeding copper and blue all over Whyte Ave while your Flyers were getting there asses handed to them by Buffalo. I was the one predicting, no telling, everyone that they were going to win the cup during the Detroit series. But I was saying that with Roli the Goalie in net. Ask any Edmonton fan. Ask anyone in the city. Conklin is not a cup-winning goalie. He was sent back to the minors halfway through the season. Jussi is alright. I hope he can pull it together, but I don't know. Of course I hope that I'm wrong. I hope that I have to eat my words.

You seem hellbent on attempting to start something because I'm less than confident in our backups. How dare you call me less of a fan because of what I think. It's alright for the Flyers to be injury plagued and lose, but if an Edmonton fan suggests that the same thing may happen to his team, he's a disgrace?

The difference is, if they don't win the cup this year, they will next year when Roloson is back. The Flyers will still suck.

I've browsed a couple Oiler boards and all them seem to be united in thinking the Oilers will still win. If the Oilers don't win the Cup they are no better than the Flyers. You'll blame the loss on injury just like I blamed the Flyers exit on.

2nd place is the first loser. No one cares about finishing second. But for the record I'm pulling for the Oilers because I like how they play with that dog in them. I'm not trying to pick a fight with you dude, I'm just telling you to still believe your team can win. It pisses me off when people take championship visits for granted. You may never get there again, you better believe your team can take it or you have no real reason to watch.

That's hardly admitting a team's weakness. He completely backed off his original stance. "We're done" and "we're finished" is hardly being an idealist. It's called shriveling up in a corner when you as a fan face some adversity.

He's not being a realist. Saying his team is done is completely unrealistic.

and even if it was realistic, all realism goes out the window in a championship series.

No fan predicts their own team to lose a championship, I don't care how much of an underdog they are. You gotta get behind your team, and IMO you can't be 100% behind your team unless you think they can win the series.

I disagree, and I'll just leave it at that. I'd rather talk some NHL instead of arguing about this.

If anything, like Devo said, Acid's just being realistic. Roloson was the difference between the Oilers being where they are now, and fighting and clawing for that last seed like they were at the trade deadline.

Ask those same Oilers fans whose message boards you were perusing who got them into the playoffs at all, let alone who carried them this far, and you'll get one name from the overwhelming majority: Roloson. Without him, they wouldn't have even made it past Detroit.

I was originally predicting Canes in six, but without Roloson I'm not even sure Edmonton will be able to push it to five. Not to say they're gonna give up, because they're one of the grittiest, hardest-working teams in the league, but playoffs are won and lost on great goaltending alone, and while Carolina obviously has it, Edmonton's just tore up a knee.

They're done.

I don't want to say anything bad about former U of New Hampshire standout TyConk, but lest we forget that another UNH standout (Jason Krog) was on another Western Conference finalist (Mighty Ducks) when they bowed to the Devils a few years back.

And don't forget Jerry Azumah didn't exactly help the Bears win any Super Bowls.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v6...nklinisLOL.jpg

I'm sure he will...:judge:

Losing Roloson is a monumental blow to the Oilers that I don't think they will be able to recover from. Regardless of your team spirit, the horizon stills looks rather grim.

I still think the Oilers win it, and I'm not even an Oilers fan. So to me it's not being realistic.

It's easy to jump ship when something bad goes wrong. When in 2004 the Eagles lost TO with a broken ankle did I go crying about how the season is over? No. I came right out and told everyone that they'd still make the Superbowl, and guess what? They did. With bums at receiver.

It ain't over til it's over people.

The Oilers were an 8th seed. They went down 2-0 against the Sharks. If this team had any quit in them they would've given up already. Seems like a team of destiny to me, and it's their destiny to forge.

Just a reminder:

The Eagles lost.

With TO. Go figure.

Who would've thought they'd make it without him and lose it with him?

It just shows you, sports are crazy and anything can happen. If the Oilers go down 3-0, then yes, I'd say it;'s realistic to think they will lose. Not this early.

LOL the Eagles lost to the Pats nuff said.

Blind faith is saying the Penguins will win the Cup, not saying a team can win because their starting goalie got hurt. I mean Roloson is good, but he's not the entire team.

Conklin was on the team for a reason. For situations like this. Now time to earn his paycheck.

Hey fuck you asshole. I was letting everyone have their fun and I was going to stay out of this but when you pull shit like that you are just asking for trouble. Why is it that you piss people off on a regular basis?

You are the only one that seems to get pissed off. Probably because you need to calm down and understand we are only having a discussion.

Listen to yourself. The Penguins finished with one of the worst records in hockey. I used them for a reason. I could've used the Blues as well.

I never said the Oilers weren't weakened because of this. All I said was the series isn't over. I questioned Acid's fandom because of it. Saying "we're done" is jumping ship. At least to me it is.

There is a difference in saying your team has absolutely no chance to win the series, which is what he said, and saying the team is going to have a hell of a fight on their hands.

I agree with the latter, but not the former, which is what started this entire debate.

I didn't say he wasn't a fan. I said "what kind of a fan are you?" I'm questioning his loyalty as a fan, not him actually being a fan. I'm sure he's a huge Oilers fan, but to me if you say you lost the series before it's frickin over, then you have some serious loyalty issues.

I can only post what I believe. I'm not trying to be a dick, and I've said it in this thread already, that I wasn't trying to. That post angered me, and I responded to it. It's as simple as that.

Like I said, I browsed some Oiler message boards to see how they felt, and they are all rallied together still thinking the team will win. So I guess every one of them are blind idiot retards then? I mean, let's be real here. It comes down to whether or not you are an optimist or a pessimist. I'm backing the Oilers here, and trying to give Acid some hope to cling to. I'm not trying to be against him.

Markkanen is playing great, but he's getting no help.

0 goals? C'mon now. At least the Oilers fans have some hope now. Markkanen proved he can win you a Cup, but can the Oilers score some goals?

Yeah, I'd certainly be hopeful being down two games to none and having my star goaltender (who is also the only reason my team's in the playoffs at all) injured and unable to return. That'd give me lots of hope!

They've came down from 2-0 before, they can do it again.

Alright, I'll admit it. I was far too quick to give up hope. Taken into account though, it was less than an hour after hearing the absolute worse news a hockey fan could imagine.

Jussi played just fine. If he can keep that up, we can win this. The rest of the team however? Terrible. Simply terrible. It was embarassing to watch. Not only were they giving him absolutely no help, they couldn't put one in the net to save their lives. It seems as though the wind got sucked right out of their sails. They wern't playing like they can. What we watched tonight was not the same team that beat Anaheim.

Saturday will be different. Jussi has proven himself to be competant. He's no Roli, but he can hold it together.

They came back from 2-0 due to absolutely stellar goaltending. Markkanen was decent, but letting in five goals isn't stellar, I don't care how bad you were left out to dry. Sometimes goalies have to save ones they really shouldn't to keep their team in the game. Ward and Roloson have done that. Markkanen hasn't, and hasn't really shown that he can very often.

Markkanen's play aside, the team plays differently in front of him than they do in front of Roloson. They don't have the same confidence in Markkanen, and there's no way to fake that.

You are 100% right. It was a completely different team. They need to fix that. Play like Roli was in net. Fuck I don't care if they have to dress Jussi is Roli's jersey. If they can get past the fear that they had of having him in net, they have a chance.

That's the spirit. Never meant to come off as a dick. Whether your team wins or not remains to be seen, but they sure as hell aren't dead yet.

LOL "playing with broken stick" is the worst penalty I've ever heard of.

Carolina hasn't scored yet? What?! I'm tempted to start watching the game now....

Is Edmonton playing really well?

I haven't been paying full attention but it has been a very good game.

A referreeing fuck up kept Edmonton from being up 2-0. Cam Ward was laying on his back after making some save, and the puck was between his legs, and an Oiler picked it up and buried it without issue, but the ref blew his whistle beforehand.

Damn. Edmonton must be pissed about that. I bet that the Albertans from my lab were screaming when that happened.

:) Acid.

Ryan Smyth ftw

God these last two posts are shitty as hell.

Great game all around. The Oilers came out roaring, and the most definately had to. Looks like we will be in for a much more competitive series than I thought after game 2. Of course, they need to even the series up on Monday. That said, who thinks it'll end up a best of 3?

Too bad he was in the crease as well as interfering with the goalie. The referees made the right call the first time by denying Smyth the goal. Unbelievable.:judge:

Too bad it doesn't matter if he was in the crease. And I would really like to know how that was interference. He skated in, got the puck, and dumped it in. The idea of Smyth hanging around the crease is not a new concept by any means.

Dragoon, you were right. I'm not afraid to admit it. Faith +1.

fuck fuck fuck fuck fuck fuck.

You could tell they were getting really tired, but damn. Last ditch effort and all, but still couldn't do it :(

Good game. Markkanen made some spectacular saves, but Edmonton's ineffective use of the power play (especially during that lengthy 5-on-3) really let them down.

What a pathetic passing attempt by the Carolina player. He blew the game for the Hurricanes. I hope his team gives him a lot of shit in the locker room. The Hurricanes' goalie didn't stand a chance.

xman25

Yea let's have the whole team berate one of their teammates. That should be great for morale!

As a goalie, whenever someone tells me I didn't have a chance to make a save I want to hit them. There's always a chance; don't insult him by claiming otherwise.

I honestly do not think I have ever screamed as hard as I did when Pisani scored. I can barely talk now.

This is going to be a best of 3. The Oil are not going to lose the cup on home ice. The fans simply won't let them.

If anyone was watching the CBC feed, after Pisani scored they showed a lingering shot of a little boy, probably about 4 in a Canes jersey in the stands. He looked like he was about to cry.

I want that for my wallpaper.

Never give up hope Acid. I don't know if the Oilers will win this series, but until either team hoists that Cup, don't give up the hope.

I sure as hell thought the Oilers could still take it when down 3-1, and I'm not even a fan.

In sports when trailing big deficits, you need to chip away. You took game 5, now if you win game 6 at home, it's back to 0-0 again. The winner takes all. The Oilers gotta take one game at a time, and stay focused and confident.

I don't care that no team has ever won a Cup finals when trailing 3-1(I don't think). It's no longer 3-1, it's 3-2. Whole new game.

A short handed, overtime winner in game 5 of the finals. Wow Pisani, I am super impressed, excellent forechecking and a stupid, stupid move by the Carolina player. It's just a shame that the Oilers won't have a chance to win at home.

Holy fuck. That's the biggest load of bullshit I've ever read. Quit trying to talk like you're getting an interview on ESPN. Want to talk about how they should think outside the box? Or maybe revolutionize the paradigm?

You are one ignorant dude, and it's not even worth a thought out response of mine.

He says, still deigning to respond. Good show, superstar.

http://i19.photobucket.com/albums/b1.../stupidity.gif

Yet another post of yours that continues to show your ignorance. Keep it up, you're doing great.

That's good, the way you basically use my exact wording. I see what you did there. Has anyone ever told you how truly brilliant you are, Kain? Clearly, a well liked fellow like you has ever so many redeeming qualities.

Anyway, back on topic. I think the big question in game 6 is whether or not the Canes will get down on themselves because of that costly mistake. If they roll into Edmonton flat, they will lose. Edmonton is going be fired up behind their crowd.

I was pretty surprised that Edmonton was able to come back to win that game. Pretty sweet. I'm hoping that they can continue and win the next two games.

Edmonton 4-0. Heading back to Raleigh for Game 7 Monday.

That was a beautiful game.

The best game so far these playoffs. I loved the HNIC replay of Craig McTavish at game 6 - after Pisani scored in OT, he's jumping around and celebrating with the coaching staff, and then he turns around to the carolina fans behind him, slams the glass and holds up seven fingers, shouting "I'll see you in SEVEN!"

Fucking right!

Everything that I have ever said, ever about Markannen was 100% complete bullshit. I had absolutely no idea what I was talking about. We just watched a backup goaltender get a shutout in game six of the Stanley Cup final. My god.

We have this. Carolina has gone to complete shit. What were the shots in the second period? 28-8? Something insane like that. They can't get the puck, and when they do, they can't do anything with it.

One more.

I'll upload some pictures of Whyte Ave throughout the playoffs a little later. It was a little nuts.

I'm not going to make a prediction in game 7 for acid's sake. I don't want to jinx it for you(even though I don't believe in jinxes, some people do).

But there you have it. Down 2-0 without your starting goaltender, and now it's 3-3? That is the heart of a champion. The reason I first said this series isn't over was because something about this Oiler team really impressed me throughout the playoffs. They just never seem to quit.

I'll always take talent over hard-workers if I was an NBA GM, but as far as rooting purposes go, I always root for the hard-working underdog when my team is out. That is exactly what the Oilers are. Fought through so much adversity in the playoffs, and now have a chance to bring the cup back home.

I say the Oilers take it tonight in thrilling fashion. I don't believe in jinx's, for the record. If I did, I'd never attend any sports game ever.

EDDDDDDMONTON SCOOOOOOOOOOOORED EEEEEEEEDDDDDDDDMONTSOOOOOOOOOOOCCCCCCCCCRED WOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO

VIDEO COMING LIEKW HAT

If Edmonton can pocket one and tie it up in this period, I think they win it eventually.

God damn. A good run by the Oilers at least.

Now Edmonton knows how we felt during last playoffs. So close, yet so far.

That open net goal at the end made me close to suicidal. It's enough to make a grown man cry in pain. ;________;

Wooooot. Go Carolina! :tpg:

Don't worry folks! We'll take REAL GOOD care of the cup in Raleigh!

http://www.carolinahurricanes.com/im...nts/cupwin.jpg

congats to Carolina... you played well and apparently wanted it more...

just remember, there is always next year for every other team out there...

STAND BACK, THERE'S A HURRICANE COMING' THROUGH! :tpg:

Carolina got to bring a championship home this year afterall! :P

Oh fuck you guys. >=(

Hurricane comin' tear up Raleigh liek wut.

They simply outplayed us. That's all it was. There was not a damn thing that we could do tonight. Passing to no one, not shooting, giving away the few chances we got. The Canes played much better as a team, and it showed.

The city is eerily quiet. The entire drive home, I didnt hear a damn thing. No voices, no horns, no nothing. I'm half expecting some idiot to throw himself off Rexall.

Oh well, can't win em all. And for an eight seeded team that no one thought was going to make it past game 4 of the Detroit series, we put up a fight. And there is always next year. And now I can finally wash my jersey. It's starting to grow its own playoff beard.

just so you all know, I still officially blame Conklin for this

You'll be back to compete next year. I think you had the better team, but just fell short. Blew opportunities, but you had them at least.

Glad to see the Canes win The Cup this year. Made Ronz happy, and won me 60 bucks!

Also, game seven was one of the fastest and hardest played games I've ever had the joy to watch. Non-stop action the entire time.

And I blame you guys getting Roloson late in the season which led to you guys defeating my home team in the first playoff series.

And you shouldn't blame Conklin. You should blame some Hurricanes for crashing into Roloson.

That was one hell of a game. Carolina deserved it but what a fight Edmonton put up. It's hard to believe that they finished 8th in the west, only to sweep the league's top team and make it all the way to game 7 of the Stanley Cup Finals. Congratulations to the Hurricanes for their first cup in franchise history.

Hey pal I fixed your sentence up so it's actually accurate now!

Yeah, Bergeron is an idiot.

Another Oiler that gets on my nerves is Greene. I swear, I don't think I've ever seen him do anything useful. Of course, he gets about 90 penalties a game.

Hurricanes deserved to win last night it was pretty obvious. That had to be one of the best games I've seen this season too so much hitting involved. I honestly dont know how some of those players do it. Their bodies have to take so much punishment.

Congrats to the Hurricanes and Ronz.

Rod Brind'Amour is an ugly motherfucker.

ANYWAY, grats to the Canes. I totally called it if it went to 7. :)

Did anyone else see when the Canes were skating around with the Cup after the game and one of the players (I didn't know who) screamed, "Fucking A!". The audio cut out right after he said it. It was hilarious.

Hahaha yeah, that was awesome.

To me, another Cup in the Southeast Division is a great thing. Less and less shit can be given after two cups in a row.

Though it won't be coming down here to Sunrise anytime soon.

I hear Luongo's gonna be traded.

Things like this make me more excited about having the Lightning become my new home team come fall when I move to Orlando.

Fuck, I am so tired of places that don't have snow owning the cup.

Get used to it man. What do we have now in the sunbelt, Dallas, Tampa and Raleigh right?

Then we have the Anaheim, L.A and Miami making the finals at some point.

Don't think I don't know it. It still pisses me off, though.

Oh Bergeron knows it. The media hasn't exactly been kind to him.

And yes, they should dump Greene ASAP. He doesn't do anything. Except get penalties. He spends more fucking time in the box than on the ice.

While I'm bitching about my team for no good reason, I just gotta say I don't understand Hemsky. He can deke-out every single person on the ice, have a great shot lined up, and he'll pass. I really do think that he's afraid to shoot. If we could somehow train him to get that rubber thing in the net he'd be a fucking monster.

I really must say - having watched Carolina win the cup yesterday and the Heat winning the championship tonight - when the clock hit 0.00 at the very end in hockey, there was a outburst of pure, pure happiness and joy... it's always so exciting to watch an NHL team win the cup the moment the clock hits 0.00.

When the clock hit 0.00 for tonights game in b-ball, there was no explosion of joy, but just some cockiness and smiles. Nothing at all as fun to watch.

Anyone see the new Anaheim Ducks uniforms and logo?

Its eehhhhh I dont know. The colors are alright but the logo is terrible. Its just the word DUCKS across the chest.

Congratulations to Carolina. Edmonton was just unable to capitalize on their power plays again (and again with a 5 on 3).

So the draft is tomorrow and the league has seen the first big deal of the offseason with Todd Bertuzzi and Alex Auld moving from the Canucks to the Panthers in exchange for Roberto Luongo, Lukas Krajicek, and a 6th round draft selection.

I'm fairly sure Diss(Brent) will be happy about this. And the Vancouver media should be too because BERTUZZI HAS TO GO am i rite pal?

I can understand why Florida had to part with Luongo due to his resistance to signing a long term deal with them, and Bertuzzi should be a boost to the offense if he can keep his temper in check, but can they depend on Alex Auld to carry them?

Should be an interesting draft weekend indeed.

gentlemen, it's the end of an era.

http://img277.imageshack.us/img277/1381/ducks4jx.gif

The best logo and team name in sports is no more.

http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Hockey/NHL...9/h050948A.jpg

They say they want to seperate themselves from their Disney roots.

http://img277.imageshack.us/img277/8...1game212dy.jpg

I say NEVER FORGET.

http://img277.imageshack.us/img277/6...tyducks3jz.jpg

Black and orange? No Mighty! Hmph, I say!

http://img277.imageshack.us/img277/2545/ana1251fu.jpg

Even the Pond could have a name change.

http://img277.imageshack.us/img277/9...selanne4cq.jpg

Hold me, I'm going in.

I don't know what I think about the trade.

Should I be:

-Upset about losing one of the best goalies in the NHL?

-Happy about getting the hard hitting scorer we needed?

-Or should I be looking foward to my move to Orlando and going to Lightning games?

BTW, hear about the riots in Carolina?

I'm buying one of the new Ducks jerseys. Even though they look like an ECHL team's kit.

Yes you should. Even though Bertuzzi is important to have, you went from an awesome goalie to a terrible one. I think Brent will tell you what he thinks of Alexander Auld.

Double Post:
I'm pretty glad we got Jordan Staal in the draft. I expected Phil Kessel to be picked to be honest but I'm still glad. Also sup Ronz Staal buddies.

Funny you mention ECHL. The only reason I monitor the Ducks is because of this man.

http://www.anaheimducks.com/team/coach_bio.php?id=28

IceGators, ftw. ;____;

"Vancouver is proud to choose, with their first selection in the 2006 NHL Entry Draft, NOBODY. WE GOT LUONGO, FUCK ALL Y'ALLS, WE DON'T NEED SHIT WOOOOO!"

Woohoo! Luongo is gone from the Southeast division. I'd much rather face Todd Bertuzzi than Roberto any day. Now, if the Lightning could only land a good goaltender to properly replace Havi from 2 seasons ago. We'll be losing Kubina to free agency July 1st, so thats another good defenseman gone.

Sonne - Actually planning to go to the Forum here for Bolts games? Let me know when, I try to go to as many as I can.

Yeah, I'm moving up to UCF in August and plan on going to Tampa once a month or so to visit some friends that are going to USF and go to Bolts games, most surely the Bolts/Panthers games. I'll let you know.

Probably the biggest trade of the day was Pavol Demitra being dealt to the Wild for practically nothing.

I swear to god if the Sens trade Havlat away heads will roll. And how in the hell are we supposed to choose between Chara and Redden if our salary issues aren't resolved? D: Hopefully Nick Foligno will be as awesome as I've heard he could be.

Oh man, there WILL be shootings.

And I guess I'm pretty cool with the Pens picks. Staal should be rockin'. The Pens may be, too, if Malkin would just get the hell out of Russia.

Well Denicalis should be happy. Boston Bruins signed Zdeno Chara and Marc Savard today.

Both of them are going to make a ridiculous amount of money too.

Sens sign Martin Gerber.

You're WELCOME Fire + Ice

If the Pens signed Chara I'd buy season tickets instantly. I'd take that one picure of him standing over the other dude to Kinko's and make it like 1000x the size, then I would take it with me to every game and yell, "CHARRRAAA!" Yeah.

Enjoy John Grahame, I know I didn't.

He didn't do fantastic in Tampa Bay but I think he'll have a better time in Carolina without Tortorella to worry about. He'll be backup to Cam Ward so i'm pretty happy with it.

Wow, for some reason i didnt even hear that Lindy Ruff won coach of the year. Second sabres coach ever. First was Ted Nolan and after his fiasco, you never hear from him anymore.

Drafted 3 defenseman, 1 goalie and other guys, but they will just be in rochester for 5 years anyway so it doesn't really matter.

I'm a little relieved that we're not trying to go with Emery as our number 1. he's good, but he's not THAT good, plus there are years of experience he needs. It's kind of a bittersweet thing. Finally we have a goalie that's got experience and isn't 5 minutes away from retirement but we didn't sign Zdeno Chara and now he plays for Boston. BOSTON. I'll be honest though, it was a lose-lose thing, either Chara or Redden were going to have to leave and that's not an easy call to make. I always pick the big trade, first it was Hossa, now Chara. I swear, if Alfredsson is the next to go I am so outta here.

Haha. Well honestly dont be suprised if the Pens sign a bunch of younger, unknown guys this year. Our new GM even said so. Which if you think about what happened with last season maybe it is the way to go.

anybody remember NHL 99 - that awesome Bowie song called Heroes was on it, it was sweet. i just heard it on the radio today and it got me thinkin about how great that game was

Listen to Heroes by David Bowie napster.com/player/tracks/13373632[/url]

Chris Pronger just got traded to the Ducks.

http://www.tsn.ca/nhl/news_story/?ID=170400&hubname=nhl

The Ducks are going to be scary this year with both Pronger and Niedermayer on the blue line. Thank god they are in the western conference.

No! GTFO of my conference!

On an unrelated note, it must suck for Ottawa to see Chara go to a team in their own division that they're gonna have to play eight times.

:(

Not only do we lose him, we now have to deal with Anaheim and the defense from hell. Ugg.

Stupid wife and her stupid "I don't like it here". Well, I hope he likes "boo's".

Was that really the reason? His wife didn't like it in Edmonton?

Bye Bye Stevie Y...
http://i.a.cnn.net/si/2006/hockey/nh...rmantrophy.jpg

http://sports.yahoo.com/nhl/news;_yl...v=ap&type=lgns

Well, the season's over. Thread closed!

http://www.gamingforce.com/forums/ba...tml#post191216